Friday, November 21, 2014

Tips for Selecting A Suitable Beauty Parlour

It is of utmost importance for the customers to pick the beauty parlour which maximizes customer satisfaction to get price appropriate service.These days, one comes across many parlours having highly trained professionals at reasonable prices. Now the question arises, how to choose the best beauty parlour among them?Some Special Tips to Select the ParlourBelow are some tips to help the customers choose the most suitable parlour for them:Location - Location of the parlour is the foremost factor for making the decision. If the beauty parlour is located near your home or workplace, then it becomes easily accessible for you. You can walk to the parlour without having to waste your time in commuting. If located far away, availability of car parking facility is important for making it more convenient.Services - This is the next part which should be considered properly by the customers, I.e. to look for the best services offered to them. Apart from that, while going for high packages, the additional services provided should also be considered, so that they don't have to spend extra for other packages. Customers should also look for extra tips on hair and skin treatment. You can also find out about the cleanliness of the beauty parlour.


Trained Staff - Customers should also take into consideration if the parlour has a team of trained and professional individuals. They should also have a look at the accolades earned by the parlour to get a clearer picture of its standing in the market. The availability of an external expert advice adds to the uniqueness of the parlour.Reasonable Price - Price is also an important criteria which should be taken into consideration while making the choice. If the prices offered are reasonable, it should be preferred over the others.Availability of Equipments - Customers should also look around in the parlour for the availability and condition of the necessary equipments like salon chair, including the stools for hair cut, proper place for head wash along with its bowl. Also, proper beds for facial and massage.Cool and Friendly Environment - It is also an important deciding factor. If the staff is not well-behaved and friendly, they will not attract customers. The staff should provide customized services to the guest which can be moulded according to the needs of the customers.Thus, these are some of the basic tips which can help the customers to find out the best suited beauty salon for them.

Monday, November 17, 2014

Bikini Competition Prep Steps

Preparing for a bikini competition takes a lot of time and effort. If you're serious about winning such a competition, you'll be making some serious sacrifices in order to be a top competitor. Here are some often forgotten bikini competition prep steps that you'll need to consider in order to win, it's going to take more than your brain and good looks to win this competition so let's get started.Physical FitnessThose bikini healthy bodies don't come naturally, in fact, it takes many hours at the gym to get that bikini ready body. Sculpting the abs as well as the thighs and shoulders are all part of preparing for such competitions. Plan to rotate the parts of the body you're working on so that each area gets an appropriate work out. You may wish to break this into an hour per area or a day per area, either way you look at it, you're going to be hitting the gym on a daily basis and giving it your all.Healthy DietA healthy diet is part of any competition. Preparing your body for the stamina of scrutiny that it's going to receive via diet is an important part of preparation. It's easy to get caught up in the latest diet fad but these don't last and often leave the dieter feeling devoid of energy and stamina. Focus on healthy choices and smaller portion to ensure that the body is ready for competition. Avoid empty calorie foods and watch for those sneaky pesky calories that are lurking in foods you don't expect them to be in just waiting to sabotage your diet plan.It's also important to avoid alcohol (laden with calories) as well as smoking (causes premature wrinkles and of course eventually cancer and death) when preparing for competition. Avoid foods that cause breakouts such as fried foods and dairy. Your skin and body will thank you.Plan to stay as hydrated as possible with plenty of water. Water makes up a huge percentage of your body and will help to keep your skin looking supple and hydrated. It's also a healthy option for you during this time. If you don't care for water consider adding in some citrus fruits to your drink and sip it throughout the day to remain hydrated.Appearance


In addition to eating right and following a physical fitness regimen, it's important to consider your appearance. Start with a bikini that flatters your specific body. Not all bikini's are good for all body types. You may need to try a few different ones on to get the one that gives you the right look. Next consider your hair style. Does it give the appearance of a bikini clad gal who is bikini ready? or does it need some work? Select a style that is quick, easy and bikini worthy.Your makeup should reflect you not the makeup brand that is being worn. Select summer makeup styles that enhance the appearance while not being overwhelming. Opt for beach friendly tones as well as waterproof eye makeups that won't run when wet.Fingernails can show how you care for your body. If you suffer from jagged or ragged edged nails get a manicure. There are many natural looking manicures available on the market today so go out and get one that will give you a healthier appearance. You can even bling those nails.TanningWhile having a healthy glow is important, it's also important to recognize that the sun can also cause premature aging and wrinkles. Today's healthy bodies are turning to alternative forms of tanning such as spray on tans and using tanning beds for short periods of time to give the look of a healthy tan without the damage of the sun rays. Remember to cover your face to avoid getting snake skin wrinkles.PoiseThere aren't enough words to stress this point. Without poise, you have nothing. You need to be able to get up on that stage and shine. Your personality needs to show through and you need to exude confidence while you're on stage. If you don't have poise, learn to fake it in a hurry. Poise is like your charm, your charisma, your glow. Over do it is better than under doing it here...Following these bikini competition prep steps will help you to prepare and be ready for any competition that comes along in your future. Start planning now for your next competition.If you looking for an online contest bikini prep coach, email me for prices and info here.

Friday, November 14, 2014

How EU Cosmetics Regulations Ensure That a Cosmetic Product Is Safe for Your Skin

Cosmetics regulations have changed for any such product on the market in the UK and EU. Since July 2013 these products now need to comply with the Cosmetics Products Regulation (EC) 1223/2009 and the main purpose of this legislation is to ensure the safety of the products that we put on our skin.The main requirements of Regulation (EC) 1223/2009 are as follows:• Products must be safe for human health when used under normal or reasonably foreseeable conditions of use; taking account in particular of the following:o Presentation and appearance of the producto Labellingo Instructions for use and disposalo Any other indication or information provided by the responsible person• There are certain substances that are either prohibited or restricted for use in cosmetic formulations (refer to Regulation 1223/2009 - Annex II and III)• Certain ingredients classified as Carcinogenic, Mutagenic or Toxic for Reproduction (CMR Substances) are banned in cosmetics• There are restrictions on animal testing of products and ingredients• Particular information must be kept and updated by the "Responsible Person" (see definition below)• "Responsible Persons" and "Distributors" have specific legal obligations• Cosmetics are subject to specific labelling requirementsWhat is a Cosmetic Product?This means any substance or mixture intended to be placed in contact with the external parts of the human body (epidermis, hair system, nails, lips and external genital organs) or with the teeth and the mucous membranes of the oral cavity with a view exclusively or mainly to cleaning them, perfuming them, changing their appearance, protecting them, keeping them in good condition or correcting body odours"Placing on the Market"This means the first time that the product is supplied or made available for distribution, consumption or use on the European Community market in the course of a commercial activity (Note: this includes any items supplied free of charge)Who is a Manufacturer?"Manufacturer" means a natural or legal person who manufactures a cosmetic product or has such a product designed or manufactured, and markets that product under his name or trademark


Who is a Distributor?'Distributor' means any natural or legal person in the supply chain, other than the manufacturer or the importer, who makes the product available in the EU"Responsible Person"This is the person or business within the European Union (EU) who places a the product on the market, which may be any one of the following persons:o The Manufacturer (if based within the EU)o Representative of the manufacturer appointed under written mandateo The importer of the product in to the EUo Representative appointed under written mandate by the importer in to EUo A distributor who modifies a product already on the market or by applying their own name or trade mark to the goods (I.e. own branding)Product Safety ReportBefore placing a cosmetic product on the market, the responsible person must ensure that it has undergone a safety assessment and that a relevant product safety report is produced. A safety assessment must be completed by a suitably qualified person; I.e. a doctor, registered pharmacist, chartered chemist or chartered biologist. The name, address and qualifications of the safety assessor must be specified in the safety report.A Product Safety Report should contain the following:Part A: Cosmetic product safety information1. Quantitative and qualitative composition of the product2. Physical/chemical characteristics and stability of the product3. Microbiological quality4. Impurities, traces, information about the packaging material5. Normal and reasonably foreseeable use6. Exposure to the product7. Exposure to the substances8. Toxicological profile of the substances9. Undesirable effects and serious undesirable effects10. Information on the productPart B:1. Assessment conclusion2. Labelled warnings and instructions of use3. Reasoning4. Assessor's credentials and approval of part BThe Responsible Person and the safety assessor should work closely together to ensure that the safety of the product is properly assessed, documented and kept up-to-date to ensure the product is "safe".

Wednesday, November 12, 2014

Beware Of Formaldehyde In Nail Polish Products

Nail polish ingredients are often very toxic and can cause serious health problems by prolonged exposure. One of the very harmful substances in many popular nail enamel brands is formaldehyde (also known as methanol), which is part of the "toxic trio". The toxic trio consists of the three most harmful chemicals found in many nail enamels: formaldehyde, DBP (dibutyl phthalate) and toluene.Formaldehyde (Methanol) - It's purposeIt is not uncommon to find formaldehyde amongst the long list of ingredients found in many popular nail polish and nail hardener brands on the market today. This chemical substance acts as a preservative and is a nail hardener, therefore enabling nail enamel products to dry faster.Dangers of Formaldehyde (Methanol)This harmful preservative is carcinogenic (cancer causing) and is very harmful to the human body. The health-concerns about this toxic substance found in many beauty products are therefore well-established, as many people these days develop cancers from over-exposure (pro-longed exposure) to carcinogenic beauty products - including nail enamels.Other side effects known from exposure to formaldehyde are asthma attacks, skin irritations and an allergic rash, as well as irritations to the eyes, nose and throat. Persons who suffer from asthma or have breathing problems often will experience a worsening bout of their condition when exposed to products containing formaldehyde.It is important to be aware that even if a person does not experience immediate side-effects from this chemical such as irritations to the eyes, throat, nose or a rash - this chemical can be affecting them in a more dangerous, subtle manner such as cancers being formed within the body from over-exposure. Therefore women should keep exposure to formaldehyde as minimal as possible. Pregnant women should also stay clear of this carcinogenic preservative to guard against putting the unborn child at risk.


Women who are exposed regularly to formaldehyde are also at a risk of developing reproductive problems, including abnormal menstrual cycles.Those higher at risk are workers who deal with formaldehyde-containing products on a regular basis. Other women are also at risk, since exposure to formaldehyde can accumulate, especially with its presence in many other beauty product such as nail hardeners, eyelash glues, shampoos, make-up, deodorant, skin lotions, gels and hair-straightening products. It also exists in fertilizer, paper, plywood and medicines.Other Alternatives.Although formaldehyde is a common substance found in many nail enamel products, is not a necessary ingredient. There do exist nail polish companies that omit this substance from their products entirely and create more natural enamels that are water-based rather than chemical-based. Women who want to take precautions to reduce their risk of cancer should avoid all products containing this carcinogenic substance known as formaldehyde. (Be aware also that a masked name for this toxic chemical is methanol.) Seek water-based polishes instead to be safe.

Saturday, November 8, 2014

Scars Are For The Uninformed

Would you rather attract attention to your scars or hide them like a ninja in the shadows?Scars attract attention on their own with little help. Telling your scar story could be an interesting subject, especially when embellished. But, what would you do if you had the choice to diminish your scars or keep them forever like tattoo?Scars do tell a story, but they don't define who you are. They can be erased along with the painful emotions and harmful memories. Although the tissue used to heal wounds is tougher, it still can be improved with proper care.Knowing how to heal and fade scars is half of the battle. Being friendly to your skin is the best way to fade blemishes. Natural remedies are easy to do from your own home and are more economical. Over-the-counter remedies often are not to be used for prolonged periods of time.Remedies for Scars
Forget about Vitamin E. Vitamin E is well known for being beneficial to the skin. But, recent studies have shown that Vitamin E actually inhibits the healing and fading of scars.
Other Vitamins. Supplying your body with essential vitamins and minerals will give your blood plenty of nutrients to promote cell and collagen growth.
Oils. Carrier oils such as olive oil, almond oil, and coconut oil are an excellent treatment for the tissue. These oils are effective in cleansing the outer layer of the epidermis while equalizing the natural oils called sebum in the epidermal layers.
Other oils. Essential oils such as lavender and frankincense have the ability to penetrate the cells and encourage healthy cell growth and regeneration. When applied as soon as the injury is healed, these types of oils can prevent scarring.
Keep out of the sun. The suns UV rays are damaging to healthy cell growth. Even though scar tissue does not gain pigment, the harmful rays can damage cells and tissue.


Are you ready to come out of the shadows and fight like a ninja to fade your scars? Healing your blemishes is healing for your soul. Instead of worrying about how you look, you can feel confident that your blemishes are faded and out of sight without even hiding them. You won't have to answer anymore embarrassing questions. You will feel more balanced emotionally with the unpleasant memories faded as well.Being informed is the first step to reducing scars. Starting a natural treatment and being consistent with it is the black belt you need to fade scars and heal.

Thursday, November 6, 2014

Beware Of The Toxic Trio Chemicals In Your Favorite Nail Polish Brands!

Many women love to wear nail polish and will not let a week go by without wearing it. It is not a minor-concern however, the alarming fact that many popular nail polish brands are filled with toxic ingredients which are known to cause great harm to the human body. Three of the most toxic chemicals contained in many nail enamels are commonly referred to as the toxic trio.The Toxic-TrioThe toxic trio refers to three deadly chemicals found in most nail polishes. These are: toluene, DBP (dibutyl phthalate) and formaldehyde (methanal). These are the common names of these chemicals, however be aware that all of these toxic substances also have several other scientific names, or synonyms which could also be used on the ingredient lists on nail enamel bottles.Cancer-CausingThese chemicals have a carcinogenic nature. Persons who undergo pro-longed exposure or high-levels of exposure to these toxic substances have a high chance of developing various cancers (chemically-caused cancers).DBP (dibutyl phthalate) has been known to cause breast cancer of women who have been working with this chemical or have had pro-longed exposure over a period of time (for example, using toxic beauty products and nail enamel regularly over a number of years).Formaldehyde (also known as methanal) has been observed to cause specific cancers including nasal sinus cancer and nasopharyngeal caner. It is also believed to be linked with leukaemia.


Serious Health ProblemsStudies indicate that all chemicals of the toxic trio are very harmful to the human body. Toluene exposure can cause very concerning behavioural changes to both adults and children, brain lesions, liver and kidney damage, severe headaches and dizziness. Formaldehyde can cause reproductive disorders as well as abnormal menstrual cycles to women who have been over-exposed. DBP has been observed to disrupt the body's natural hormones, trigger asthma attacks, create fertility issues, and may also be linked to obesity.Nail Polish and PregnancyToluene can cause birth defects, so women should avoid using nail polish containing toluene during their pregnancy. DBP (dibutyl phthalate) is also a known mutagenic, so expectant mothers must avoid exposure to this chemical for the health of the unborn child. Women should completely avoid using chemical-based nail polish during pregnancy. They should opt for more natural water-based polishes instead.Buy Water-Based Nail PolishesYou don't have to be deprived of wearing pretty nail enamels entirely! There are several more natural nail polish companies now that have created special water-based formulas. These are an infinitely healthier option than their chemical-based counterparts. Do your research and choose polishes that are formaldehyde-free, DBP-free and toluene-free for a more natural approach to beauty.

Tuesday, November 4, 2014

The Advantages Of Beauty Treatments That Hair And Beauty Salons Offer

We now live in a modern era where everything happens so fast. As such, in our effort to keep up with the demands of this fast-paced world, we tend to suffer various strains and stresses. Therefore, it is essential that we make time to relax, take things slowly and enjoy life once in a while.One great way to relax is by visiting a local hair and beauty salon where you will be pampered and forget the troubles you may have. You can choose from a variety of treatments that are available and take advantage of the benefits that each treatment has to offer.1. New Hair Styles - you can realize your dream of a fuller and longer hair or try out a new hair colour with extensions. With the presence of the latest hair products, you can experiment with highlights and try out different looks. You can also try smooth and straight tresses by going for permanent blow dry.2. Facials - beauty salons offer different facial treatments and your age and skin texture will determine what treatment is best for you. An experienced beauty therapist can help you with your choice and likewise advise you with regards to the best treatment for your skin.3. Massages - a range of massages are also available. You can choose what type of body massage you will have to relieve you of tension and stress. A body massage can relieve built up tension in the body such as the neck, shoulders, and back. A lot of people have stated that after having a body massage, they feel re-energized.


4. Nail Enhancement - many beauty salons offer nail enhancements together with nail extensions to cater to the growing number of individuals who are interested with the treatment. A lot of women appreciate beautiful nails and they prefer skilled therapists to perform the task.5. Tanning treatments - everyone likes a beautiful solar kissed look when they are on holiday. These can be realized by going to a beauty salon wherein a professional will work on your body so you get an evenly tanned skin.While it is true that what is inside that counts, you cannot neglect the fact that how you look has a profound effect on how you feel inside. Therefore, the treatments offered by hair and beauty salons do not only affect the way you look but it will also help a person gain self-confidence and help improve the way they look at life.

Monday, November 3, 2014

Hairstyles: Great Styles For Older Women

Although you are old, you have every right to look beautiful. To help you out here are some of the best hairstyles for you as an older woman:Short stylesAs an old lady, you should go for short hairstyles. If you feel youthful, you should let your hair length go beyond your shoulders. If your hair is wavy and thick and you want it long, you should go for a layered and feathered cut. For you to keep the long layers healthy, you should get a trim after every six to eight weeks.Pixie cutsA pixie cut is ideal for those interested in low maintenance, but stylish cuts. In most cases, the cut is between two to four inches in length. To increase the appeal of the hair you should add gel, mousse, or hair wax.Cropped bobThis is ideal for those that are daring and want a cool style. While this style is great, it looks splendid on people with thinner and straight hair. If you have curly or wavy hair, you should avoid the style because it will give your head a mushroom look.Graying hairAlthough, you can color your hair if it's turning gray, you should consider leaving it gray. If you are interested in a more stylish look, you should color the hair white or silver.


Chin length bobThis is ideal for people looking for a versatile look. The style is usually ideal for those with wavy, curly, or straight hair. The good side with the style is that it has a number of options; therefore, you can style your hair in many ways.Factors to consider when choosing your hairstyleOne of the factors that you should consider is your skin color. As rule of thumb you should go for a style that compliments your skin color.Another factor you should consider is the thickness and texture of your hair. Main types of textures are fine, medium, and course and they are ideal for different styles. For example, if you have thick hair, you should go for straight hairstyles.The wave pattern of your hair is also an important factor to consider when choosing your hairstyle. This is because different patterns have different ways of curling.The final factor you should consider is the facial structure. If you are not sure of the right style for your face, you should ask your hair stylist.

Friday, October 31, 2014

Best Natural Skin Care Products

Flawless skin is a dream for most of us as having a clear and younger looking skin takes a lot of determination and discipline. As a result of today's hectic and erratic lifestyle we often end up with unhealthy and dull skin with an uneven texture. An unhealthy skin can often affect your self confidence and portray a wrong impression about you in your personal as well as professional lives that you don't care a bit about yourself.Many people go up to any length to get a clear skin by taking aid of an array of synthetic medications or skin creams readily available in the market today. These medications are often laden with components such as benzyl peroxide which can be detrimental to your skin health and cause damage in the long run. The other option available are surgical procedures such as skin drafting which can be quite tedious and very expensive which few people can adhere to and the chances of your skin turning back to flaky and uneven is very common.Hence taking care of your skin in a natural way is your best bet for flawless looking skin which will last forever. By adapting a healthy lifestyle comprising of a delirious workout routine, a vitamin laden diet and a good sleeping pattern can work wonders for your skin. By using some natural skin care products which we use in daily lives we can surely make our skin spotless and younger looking.01.Aloe Vera is a plant known for its medicinal properties since ages and has been used for treating many health conditions including skin disorders. Being a storehouse of various phytochemicals and nutrients it is extremely beneficial for the skin. Many products based on Aloe Vera such as lotions, creams and even have been introduced in the market which contains the benefits of this miracle plant. This shrub consists of more than 75 nutrients, 18 amino acids, 20 minerals and 12 vitamins especially vitamins C and E which are very beneficial for the skin. This plant has anti allergic properties of this plant makes it an excellent aid for treating conditions such as psoriasis, eczema and many other skin disorders.


02.Turmeric is probably one of the most common and oldest aids used to treat a lot of skin issues. This rhizome which is also used as a spice in almost a variety of cuisines the world over is famous for its anti inflammatory and anti oxidant properties has been used for thousands of years to treat injuries and wounds. Turmeric has anti viral and anti bacterial properties which makes it an efficient aid for treating conditions such as acne, dry skin, eczema and even skin cancers.03.Neem or Indian Lilac is a plant found in many parts of Asia and all over India. This plant is known for its immense medicinal properties and has been a potent herb used in ancient ayurveda. It is a storehouse of vitamins, minerals and various nutrients. Neem has exceptional anti bacterial, anti viral, anti fungal as well as analgesic properties which make it a perfect cure for sensitive, oily or acne prone skin. This plant can be either ingested by mixing it with components such as honey or even the leaves can be boiled in water to be applied over skin to reap its benefits. Regular usage of neem helps you get clear and flawless skin and even inhibits the signs of ageing and acts as a rejuvenator.

Monday, October 27, 2014

Get and Keep Healthy Younger Looking Skin Forever

Who does not covet good skin? Why! Everybody wants it. While moisturizers and skin care products help in external satisfaction, the real solution to healthy and glowing skin lies in treating the skin right from its root level. That involves feeding it the vitamins that are necessary for its replenishment. This is where Vitamin C Serum comes into the picture. Since Vitamin C naturally revitalizes the skin, using Vitamin C Serum on a regular basis will add a glow to your skin that nothing can replace or take away.These serums also have another health benefit. Their key ingredient, Vitamin C, contains another important property as well. They are anti-oxidants. This means they have special properties that help preventing cancer and also fighting with the deadly disease. Considering the increasing rates of cancer affliction, it would be wise to start using Vitamin C Serum as early as possible.Vitamin C Serum, being anti-oxidizing in nature, guards the skin against the harmful rays from the sun. Therefore, once you bathe your skin in it, you can relax and sunbathe without a care or worry. What is even better is that regular usage of these serums slow down the aging process in the sun, and makes you look nearly five to ten years younger. Needless to say, this is a confidence boost that we can all benefit from.Topical Vitamin CExtending the concept of Vitamin C Serum a little further, we have another miracle worker - the topical vitamin C. The term 'topical' refers to something that can directly be applied to a part of the body. This definition should clearly explain exactly how it can be used. In its own way, topical Vitamin C helps to tackle your skin in an efficient manner, and contributes invaluably to the health of your skin. It also plays a vital role in increasing the elasticity, resilience, and suppleness in the skin.


Cellex CAnother serum that can be beneficial to the human skin is Cellex C serum. Its key ingredients are ascorbic acid and Vitamin C. It also contains grape seed extracts. These key contents work in tandem to reduce the visible signs of aging, such as wrinkles and sagging skin. Age spots also begin to fade away. In most cases, using Cellex C serum does not have any ill effects on the skin. Therefore, it can be used freely, without worrying about negative or adverse reactions, much like other Vitamin C Serums.Hyaluronic Acid SerumAnother important food for your skin is the hyaluronic acid serum. Just like the Vitamin C Serum, hyaluronic acid serum also has incredibly good effect on your skin. In chemical terms, this is what happens - it attracts the water molecules in the skin, and binds them together, thereby keeping the water levels in the skin at an acceptable level. Therefore, the skin remains soft, and supple, all the time. Also, like Vitamin C Serums, presence of antioxidants makes this serum an effective shield against the ultraviolet rays of the sun, notoriously known for their cancer causing properties.ConclusionVitamin C Serum and its related products are always a woman's best friend. However their benefits are not restricted only to womankind, but men and children benefit from the usage of these serums as well.So make your skin smile by giving it a matchless gift - Vitamin C Serum. There are also other tiny accompanying surprises such as the hyaluronic acid serum, the Cellex C serum, and any topical Vitamin C.These products go a long way in keeping your skin healthy, by slowing down your skin's aging process and making it look young and supple again.

Saturday, October 25, 2014

Steps to Becoming a Professional Makeup Artist

Do you have a knack for knowing what colour lipstick would be best on someone just from a quick assessment? Have you spent hours trying to perfect the smokey eye, or the perfect red lip? If you're the creative type and have an eye for esthetics, perhaps becoming a makeup artist would be the ideal career path for you! Here are some tips to becoming a makeup artist.Start Developing Your SkillsYou've probably already done so, but practice applying makeup on yourself or on your friends and family so you can really develop your skills for makeup application. Even though you might be amazing at doing your own makeup, doing someone else's is a totally different thing. So make sure that you get plenty of practice applying cosmetics on others.Different people have their own unique skin type and tone, face shapes, eye colours, and so forth. Find people with a variety of these traits so you can get a feel for how to choose the right colours and products, and how to apply specific cosmetics for various faces. Get familiar with all the different types of cosmetics out there that you can use on your future clients.Enrol in a Makeup SchoolAs talented as you may be, it's important to take a few makeup classes in order to get formal training in your industry. Prospective employers and clients will expect to see some sort of accreditations, considering they are paying good money for your services. It's worth learning techniques from industry experts, and it's also helpful to be able to advertising your formal training.


Determine What Industry You'd Like to Work inBecoming a makeup artist offers plenty of avenues for you to develop your career. You can work at a makeup counter at a department store, at a theater, for fashion magazines, at a salon, or even for yourself. Think about what avenue you'd like to work in so that you can develop specific skills for your industry.Put a Portfolio TogetherYour portfolio is a crucial thing to have available, as it's essentially the only way that potential clients will be able to see your work and talent. Either invest in a good camera and take professional photos of your friends and family that you've applied makeup on, or even consider hiring models that you work on. Or else, consider employing a professional photographer to take the pictures for you. This one-time investment may seem like a lot at first, but it's a critical factor to your success.Market Your ServicesAfter you've got the necessary education and training from a makeup school, start advertising yourself to get the word out that you're available to take on work. This is especially important if you plan on being a freelance makeup artists and work for yourself. Do some research in your area that you'd like to work, and see if there are any positions available.

Thursday, October 23, 2014

Easy Steps to Achieving the Perfect Subtle Smoky Eye for Daytime

The smokey eye is as sexy and sultry as you can get. But while it may look amazing at night when heading out on the town, it's not necessarily a look that's totally appropriate for the office. Yet you can still do a subtle version of the original smoky eye, and bring it down a few notches so that it's daytime appropriate. Follow these easy steps to creating the perfect smoky eye for daytime wear.What You Need Before You Get StartedArm yourself with the following items to achieve the perfect smoky eye:
Eyeshadow primer
Matte beige eyeshadow
Mascara
Brown eyeliner
Brown eyeshadow
Fluffy brush
Pencil brush
Eyeshadow brush
Step 1 - Before you begin to get the look you want, you need to prep the skin around your eyes first in order for the makeup products to adhere properly and stick all day long. Start off by applying an eye primer or concealer all over your top and bottom eyelids. On the top, make sure to fade the product up to your eyebrow.Step 2 - Apply your beige matte eyeshadow using the eyeshadow brush, and cover your entire lid, going up to the crease.Step 3 - Take your brown eyeshadow and fluff it into the crease of your upper eye lid at the outer corner of your eye using your fluffy eyeshadow brush. Make sure to blend well into the cream eyeshadow.


Step 4 - Using your pencil brush, apply the chocolate brown matte eyeshadow onto the upper outline of your eye just above your top eyelashes. Ensure that you blend well upwards into the eyelid.Step 5 - Line the top eyelid and bottom of your eye using a brown eyeliner pencil, just below the waterline, and draw a very thin line. Blend it with your pencil brush.Step 6 - Apply a coat or two of mascara to your upper and lower lashes to help define your eyes. For a less harsh or dramatic look for daytime, use a brown coloured mascara.That's it! Of course, you'll probably have to practice a number of times before you apply the eyeliner to make sure that you can draw a thin line neatly. Make sure that all the products you use are not expired. You don't want to mess around with your sensitive eyes!Of course, if you still need a few pointers on how to properly achieve the daytime smoky eye look, or any other type of look with makeup, you might want to consider taking a course or two on how to apply makeup like a pro. There are plenty if reputable makeup schools across the country, preparing people for a rewarding career as a professional makeup artist, as well as providing people with the means of doing their own makeup perfectly!

Tuesday, October 21, 2014

Tackle Skin-Related Concerns Smartly

Exposure to the sun can lead to uneven skin tone and appearance of age spots, wrinkles, fine lines and everything else that promotes or aggravates the process of pre-mature ageing. Your skin is a beautiful feature that needs to be protected when the weather simmers up. It is a protective shell for your body that smartly hints your age and if care is not taken, can make you look older than you are. But among many other things, it is one of the most prominent organs that act as your frontage, drawing in perception about your health status and fitness levels.This means that it is imperative to take care of it, especially during summer when the sun is at its strongest best and harmful sunrays can inflict havoc on skin that is exposed. Call them slayers of the skin or anything that you may like to, but they do attack with sensational news especially when the effects of sun exposure do not agree with you. If you are suffering from a few skin concerns, here is how you can tackle them, this summer.Uneven skin tone is mostly caused due to extended exposure to the sun which leads to complexion getting dull and lifeless. Skin is marked with spots while vulnerability, uneven skin pigmentation and blotchiness sets in, making it tougher to treat.The solution is never to indulge in a skin tanning session or sunbathe as this may cause further dermis injury. This means you need to constantly keep up with your sunblock creams enriched with vitamins and SPF protection. Ensure that you re-apply the cream every few hours depending on the need. Peels made of alpha-hydroxy acids are great to revitalise the skin, reduce signs of spots and make it lighter in color. However, do note that peels often increase the photosensitivity of the skin which means using a strong sunscreen when venturing outdoors is even more crucial.


Dull skin is mostly caused by excessive moisture loss and lack of skin hydration. Summers just add to the problem which is when skin lighteners alone cannot make the cut.Solution is using creams enriched with vitamin A and vitamin C and eating a lot of fresh greens and fruits. These are generally high in nutrients that are highly beneficial for the skin.Cracked lips are again caused due to dehydration and dry summer seasons just add to the worry. It can cause lip creases to wither which leads to burning and irritation.Solution is to avoid any lip balm with ingredients that dry out the surface. Such components can lead to parched lips when used over a period of time. Use gloss fused with vitamin E and shea butter with a decent SPF level to reflect UV rays and add shimmer when you hit the evening beach party scene.

Saturday, October 18, 2014

Trendy Make-Up Tips For Oily Skin

Nobody wants to walk around with oil slick on their face. Women face a lot of problems with greasy skin when it comes to make-up. Make-up on oily skin generally melts off easily and fades away soon. The reason behind oily skin is the over-production of oil from the oil producing sebaceous glands. Our body has the natural tendency to produce oil to keep it moisturized and healthy. But, at the same time, over-production of oil can lead to various skin problems. Therefore, with oily skin you need to be little careful with the choice of cosmetic products. Here come some trendy make-up tips for slick skin:Prime your skin properly before you apply make-up: - It is advisable to prime your skin properly before applying make-up. Priming not only acts as a protective layer but also acts as a base. Priming ensures that your make-up lasts longer. When choosing primer for your greasy skin, choose the one that has salicylic acid in it. Try avoiding silicone based primers as they can be allergic and can cause break outs.Apply Foundation: - After applying primer on to your face, apply foundation on it. Foundation helps to set your make-up for a longer period of time. Always use powder based foundation as it fights off the shine that comes on your face due to oil.


Face powder: - It would not be wrong to say that face powder is your best friend when you have greasy skin. Some people get confused with pressed and loose powders. However, both work equally on an oil skin. Pressed powders are convenient to carry around to help in doing quick touch-ups.Prefer using matte blushes: - Always prefer using matte blushes instead of one with shimmer. As make-up tends to fall off quickly from an oily skin, so if you use cream blush, it will melt off easily. Powder blushes helps to set your make-up for a longer time.Apply mineral make-up: - It is said mineral make-up is a blessing for people having oily skin. It is oil free and made up of inorganic minerals. It is made up of zinc and titanium dioxide which are known to be natural sunscreens saving your skin from harmful radiations of sun. Try applying a minimum layer of make-up as multiple layers tends to cake-up easily.By applying these simple and trendy make-up tips, you can now rock any party or occasion.

Wednesday, October 15, 2014

How To Find The Right Permanent Makeup

A large number of women are opting to have permanent makeup tattooed onto their faces rather than go through the hassle every day of applying the makeup in these areas. Having their eyebrows tattooed, and lip liner permanently tattooed onto their lips, is a convenience that saves them time when they are getting ready to go out. The hardest part of having permanent makeup tattooed onto your face may be deciding which makeup you want.Before you run out and have eyebrows tattooed onto your face you need to consider how often you apply eyebrow makeup. Many women never pluck their eyebrows so for them having eyebrows tattooed onto their face would be a waste of money. Some women pluck their eyebrows off completely and the draw them back on, and some women merely have their brows shaped. If you do not completely remove your natural brows and then draw them back using an eyebrow pencil then tattooing them on permanently is not for you.Lip liner is something that most women use when they apply their lipstick before they go out. Lip liner works like the outlines you once drew on your coloring pages before filling in the color. The outline color makes the lips look fuller, and more inviting. For many women putting their lip liner on is a hassle, because if you do not get this product on perfectly straight you will look funny. Having the lip liner put on as a permanent makeup product would keep the women from ever having crooked lips because their hands were shaking when they applied their makeup.


Lip liner makes sense for women that wear lipstick frequently. Many women wear it every day, but women who seldom wear lipstick would not benefit from having lip liner tattooed on their lips. Consider the frequency in which you wear lipstick, and what the lip liner is going to look like on the days you choose not to wear makeup, before you decide to have this procedure done.Some women have their eyeliner put on as permanent makeup to keep them from having to draw it on each day when they did their makeup. The permanent eyeliner looks wonderful, and can be tattooed on the upper, and the lower eyelids. Any woman that has ever gotten almost finished applying their makeup and then had to wash most of it away because she put her eyeliner on crooked could appreciate having this type of makeup put on permanently.Having eyeliner put on as a permanent fixture on your face does not make sense unless you normally wear this type of product every day. If you go without makeup products frequently then you may want to think twice before you get eyeliner tattooed onto your eyelids.These types of tattoos are like any other form of ink that you can get on your body. You must think about what you are having done, how it will impact you now, and how it will impact your looks in the future.

Friday, October 10, 2014

Packaging: The Most Important Ingredient for Any Cosmetic Product

It might surprise you to learn that the most expensive ingredient in high street cosmetics and skincare products is not some rare musk oil or new-fangled peptide it is probably the bottle it is being sold in.Granted, pound for pound the rare ingredient may cost more than gold but the product you are buying will only include a tiny amount, probably way less than 1%.If we look at the way people buy, ignoring the huge advertising and marketing budgets, it is how the product looks, the feel of the product in the hand and how it smells - all factors weighed up by a potential customer, consciously or unconsciously, before the decision is made to buy.No surprise then that so much time, effort and money goes into getting the packaging right.And don't think just because a product is natural, organic or ethically sourced you can sell it in a recycled Coke bottle, most customers don't think that way.Factors to consider1. MaterialsIf your product is a liquid, cream or gel you have three choices glass, plastic or aluminium. Glass is relatively expensive, heavy and fragile but it generally has a higher perceived value, important if your product is expensive, and it can be recycled. Plastics range from relatively inexpensive HDPE, through PETs, to polycarbonates that look and feel like glass.Many plastics are now widely recycled and they have the advantage that they can be moulded into a huge variety of attractive and practical shapes, making it easier to use the product they contain - think of the experience getting ketchup out of a glass bottle vs a squeezy plastic one.Aluminium also has a high perceived value but it is lightweight and recyclable. The major drawback is that you can't see the contents.2. Tops and DispensersThe crowning glory atop the bottle or jar, does a lot more than just stopping the contents from escaping. It must match the aesthetics of the container, be easy to open and close, ideally with one hand and enable a controlled amount of product to be dispensed.


Many tops include a self-cleaning feature and 'airless' pumps can prevent contaminants getting into the container to extend product life one opened.3. Colours, Labels and PrintingMost containers are available in a range of colours with clear, frosted and white the most popular, closely followed by silver and black. Aluminium is available in solid colours through painting or a range of funky metallic finishes using the process of anodisation.The decision to print directly on to the container or use a label is usually determined by the quantity to be produced and the materials used. Also if you use the same container for multiple products you may want the flexibility that labels provides.4. Box or No BoxThe final step is to decide whether the skincare product is sold in a box or other form of packaging. A box will add cost but there are some important advantages. Products sold in retail outlets have to compete on the shelf with similar goods and a box gives you more space to look good.If your container is small a bigger box will help is stand out more and provides additional space for instructions, ingredients, legal jargon and a barcode. If you are really pushed for space you can include additional information on a leaflet inside the box.A box also provides protection for the product, from physical damage but also the harmful effects of UV light.And finally a box will enhance that all important sexy 'unwrapping experience' essential for the premium product range.Choosing the right package for your skincare and cosmetics products can be the difference between commercial failure and a run-away success.

Thursday, October 9, 2014

How To Keep Your Scalp Healthy in Summer

The heat is forever the enemy of the skin but we mortal humans have little to offer when fighting against the big red sun. Thankfully, we've evolved from that barbaric point of view and found our ways around the problem, creating solutions as we go.How to battle the heat?Use suitable scalp/hair care productsDid you notice how I put 'hair and scalp' care together just now? It wasn't unintentional. My point is that one of it plays a crucial part in determining the well-being of the other. You can't have healthy hair without a healthy scalp and it goes both ways. Use hair products labeled according to your scalp/hair characteristics. Products with UV blocks are a must.Sunflower oil or any sunflower-based hair products are a good source of natural UV protection.The important part is to understand the type of scalp that you have - dry, oily or if you're lucky enough, normal. To identify your scalp type, you can look for the red flags and consequently, make your judgment based on them.For oily scalp, your hair would have no split ends but would get greasy and oily after shampooing as soon as you reach the middle of the day.For the dry ones, your hair would be hard and brittle, with ever-present split ends that would get very hard to style.Anything other than these would fall under the normal category.


Stay away from swimming pools It's hot and all the beautiful people who can't stand the salt and sand of a beach opt for the more tolerable approach of diving into the pool. It's not wrong for you to do that but protect your head with swimming caps or apply any leave-on conditioner spray before you dive into the chlorine.Chlorine in public pools is designed to keep the water clean with little care of what happens to your scalp or hair. Chlorine is also the content that plumbers use to dissolve clogs of a drain.Proper hairstyle goes a long wayIf you pay attention you would notice that in the summer time an abundance of braided hairstyles appears in the magazines for women while short hair cuts for men, in hot regions. Even though it is said that magazines only publish what is trending for beauty all the time, but not for this one.Messy braids off the top of your head provide an extra layer of protection from the sun, while providing ways for it to release heat and dehumidify as opposed to the usual styles. Think of it as wearing a straw-hat rather than a cowboy hat.For guys, short hair is good as it provides access to your scalp when applying sunblock. It's also easier to maintain - you can just leave it like that and it would still look 'in-style'.

Monday, October 6, 2014

Botox: How To Prepare For Your Treatment

When you choose to have a Botox treatment, you should take proper steps in preparation. By doing so, you are doing what you can to ensure a positive experience. The following steps will help you best prepare for your Botox treatments.1. Carefully select a doctor. It is important that you choose a doctor that knows exactly what he or she is doing. A good experience with Botox depends on the technique and skill of the physician injecting it. Do your research and find an experience, board-certified doctor who has had years of success and specializes in the anatomy of the face.2. Ask questions. Before visiting your doctor, compose a list of questions you would like to ask. This assures you do not forget anything during your consultation appointment and have enough information to make an informed decision. Ask about cost, how many units you will need, and how long he or she has been giving the injections. You can also ask about any risks or side effects you may experience, how to take care of your skin afterwards, and how often someone with skin like yours should get Botox. You may also want to ask your doctor about bruising and if he or she does anything to help minimize it. Ask about touch-ups and their costs should the Botox not last as long as it should.3. Be transparent. To make sure you have a good experience, you want to tell your doctor everything about your medical history. This will allow him or her to determine if you are a good candidate. You will need to tell your doctor about any medications, supplements, or herbs you are currently taking. He or she will also need to know about any allergies, medical conditions, recent procedures, and anything else you can think of.


4. Is Botox the best treatment for you? By consulting with an experienced doctor, they can tell you what injections can and cannot do for your skin. For example, certain wrinkles respond better to fillers instead. Talk openly with your doctor so you can receive the best therapy for your skin.5. Have realistic expectations. Your physician should tell you exactly what the treatment is capable of doing. Make sure you know exactly what you can expect or you may be disappointed.6. Stop taking blood-thinning medication. Once you have an appointment for treatment, you should not take any medication that can thin your blood a week before your injections. These medications include vitamin E, Ginseng, aspirin, ibuprofen, St. John's Wart, and fish oil. This will minimize potential bruising. Also, avoid alcoholic beverages for a few days prior to your treatment appointment.When you want to improve your appearance, Botox can help. In order to have a good experience with the treatments, follow the tips shared here.

Saturday, October 4, 2014

Essential Tips for Choosing False Eyelashes

The fact that you were not born with long curled lashes does not mean that you cannot enjoy their super sexy effect. You simply need to resort to false eyelashes. They have been around for nearly 100 years and they are extensively used in the movie and fashion industries. Now they are more easily accessible than ever before. You just need to know how to select the right pair in order to achieve the best beauty results. Here is some essential advice to help you with this.Consider the shape of your eyes.The long and thin false eyelashes which fan upwards are ideal for women with round eyes. The voluminous models should be avoided as they may make the eyes appear too big. If you have hooded eyes with a fold of skin covering the socket lines, you should consider models with medium to long length especially in the centre. This kind of style trends to open up the eyes and to make them appear bigger.The almond shaped eyes are the most commonly found. If you have this eye shape, you are truly lucky since all types of false lashes will look fabulous on you. If you want to produce a more dramatic effect, you should consider models which are longer on the ends and especially on the outer end. Generally, it is a good idea for you to experiment.The monolid eyes have no visible fold in the socket line. They have one continuous lid area and this makes them very specific. The curled models and especially the ones which are longer on the outer end are always an excellent choice.Pay attention to the setting of your eyes too.


If the distance between your eyes is smaller than your eye width, then you have close-set eyes. In this case, you would want to get false eyelashes which are thicker and longer on the outer edge. The idea is to give more volume to the outer edge so that the eyes look further apart.If you have close-set eyes, you should attempt to make them look closer together. This is achieved with false lashes which have big volume and which are longer in the centre. You should avoid experimenting with other models.If your eyes are deeply set into their sockets, then you should consider models with greater length in the middle. They work to bring the eyes forward. They will certainly give you the gorgeous look which you want to achieve.Ensure that you will enjoy comfort.The false eyelashes are made from materials which do not irritate the skin. The items made from nylon are considered to be the most comfortable to wear as they are light and easy to put on. Cotton is slightly heavier, but equally comfortable material.You must clean your false lashes after each use and preferably before use as well. You simply need to follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer. This will ensure perfect comfort and eliminate the risk of irritation and other eye problems.Finally, you should always buy false eyelashes from reputable brands in the industry. That way, you will get the perfect look and feel in the long term as well as in the short one.

Thursday, October 2, 2014

How to Market Your Cosmetics in the Industry?

The cosmetics industry is one of the safest industries in the world. It also happens to be one of the most profitable industries in the world, with some companies earning up to 100% profit margins on their products. Cosmetic manufacturers strive hard to establish their own unique brands and products, which they then sell to a loyal customer base. The industry includes products for hair care, skin care, toiletries, etc. Each of these segments again have so many sub-divisions that you can understand simply how large the industry can truly be.This could definitely be a good field for any willing entrepreneur to step into. Like every other market however, the cosmetics industry too has some requirements for new entrants to fulfill.Starting a new cosmetics business is comparatively easier and less expensive than other businesses. What isn't easy however is to make an impact in an overcrowded market. Switch on the television and you'll be bombarded with advertisements for fairness creams, pimple-removers, dark-circle creams and a whole lot of other cosmetic products. Since most people in the country are obsessed with their appearance, the homegrown cosmetics industry has grown huge in a short span of time. It is this huge competition that you need to be prepared to battle if you wish to step foot into the industry.Cosmetics manufacturers sell their products on the strength of unique selling propositions. Each product promises to cure a problem better than any other product on the market. To do this, the product usually contains a chemical composition of materials, whose formula is closely guarded by the companies. It is such compositions that you need to experiment with, to come out with your own, unique product(s). This is not as hard as it sounds. All it requires is a strong will to learn and constant experimentation. You could either do this on your own or hire experienced personnel to conduct the experiments for you.


After you have created your line of cosmetic products, it is time to get them tested and approved. If this involves a whole lot of legal formalities, then the next step gets tougher - marketing your products. When you're just starting out, selling your products in a small neighborhood is advisable. After you have built your initial base of customers, you can then count on them to spread the word about your products. Allotting a decent budget for marketing your line of products will speed up the process of building your brand. From here onwards, you will only be limited by your time and resources to expand your business. The more effort you put into making your products better and visible to customers, the larger will be your returns.As long as you think how you're going to stay one step ahead of the competition, the cosmetics industry offers a great opportunity to not only have a roaring business, but also to make a lot of people happy every day! Now that isn't something that many businesses can claim to do.

Sunday, September 28, 2014

Avoid Nail Polish Containing Toluene

Toluene is a very dangerous chemical found in many leading nail polish brands. It is part of the notorious toxic-trio: toluene, DBP (dibutyl phthalate) and formaldehyde. These are the three most harmful ingredients which are rampant in the nail polish industry. Toluene has indeed become an infamous nail enamel ingredient- its severe health risks have been exposed!Toluene is a solvent which enables nail polish to be applied to the nail bed smoothly, and also acts as a thinner. Although many on-the-shelf nail polish brands use this abrasive chemical for the above reasons, it is actually not a necessary ingredient in nail enamel and can be completely omitted altogether. Proof that toluene can be omitted from nail polish ingredients lies in the fact that several nail enamel companies create their products without the use of this solvent. These natural alternatives are generally water-based rather than chemical-based, ideal for women who are conscious of their health or who are carrying an unborn.Why You Should Avoid TolueneToluene is a very harmful chemical and should be avoided as much as possible, particularly during pregnancy! Many people are highly sensitive to toluene and report side-effects such as skin irritations, headaches and dizzy spells. Even if a person does not experience these immediate symptoms, long-term exposure to this abrasive solvent can cause more serious health problems, which often won't show up until it's too late. More serious risks associated with toluene are liver and kidney damage, brain lesions, behavioural changes and birth defects. Women should therefore avoid this chemical as much as possible and would be wise to seek a more natural polish brand.


Why Nail Polish (Containing Toluene) Should Be Avoided During PregnancyIt is widely reported that exposure to toluene may cause birth defects amongst pregnant women. Even low-level exposure of this harmful abrasive substance may be dangerous for the developing fetus. Therefore pregnant mothers should avoid typical nail enamel salons and popular brands with a high-chemical content (sadly, most).Read your ingredients carefully!Among the long list of ingredients found in your typical nail polish brands, you may not actually see toluene. This is because it could be masked under some other name such as toluol, phenylmethane or methylbenzene. So be aware!A More Natural AlternativeIf you do your research you will be able to find several toluene-free nail polishes available, which are generally water-based and do not have a horrible smell like your typical polishes do. There are not a lot available, but there certainly are some so have a good look! Thanks to the chemical-free brands on the market nowadays you can look beautiful without having to worry about wearing dangerous chemicals on your fingers or inhaling poison through your lungs!

Wednesday, September 24, 2014

Make the Switch to Organic Skin Care Today

The world has now started to realize the importance of making the much-required switch to an organic lifestyle. Awareness is the key and knowing what you put on and in your body is essential. It is important to detoxify your body of all the impurities and synthetic ingredients. Hence, to help you get started with the process, we've put together five great tips to guide you on the easiest switch to organic skin care.Top 5 easy tips to switch to organic skin care:1. One step at a time- There is no hurry, go slow. Switching to organic skin care products may cost you a tad bit more, but it is definitely worth the price. Replace one beauty product at a time to ensure there is no lump sum expense in your spend. You could start with an organic face wash and eventually move onto organic soaps and body washes.2. Choose smartly- Now that you've taken the pledge to go organic, make it a point to replace all your essentials first. By 'essentials' we mean the products you make use of on a daily basis or more frequently. You could swap your body lotions for organic moisturizers, as moisturizers are something you would use on a regular basis.3. Keep away from fragrances- Just because it smells good does not have to mean that it's good for your skin. If fragrance is your priority, be sure to look for skin care products that have perfume made from natural ingredients. Most of the times, these organic products smell better than its artificial equivalents.


4. Check the label- Invest some time in checking the labels to ensure you are buying products that have the organic seal from known bodies. This way you can be rest assured that the product you are buying is worth the price and 100% authentic.5. Dwell in the organic sphere- To switch to organic, you need to believe in the organic arena. You could change your entire lifestyle and buy organic clothes, foods and have your very own little organic garden.Be sure to know more and have sufficient information about the organic sphere. Try implementing the above-mentioned tips and stay conscious about the products you and your family use. Also, whenever out on a shopping spree; make sure to buy the best organic face wash, moisturizer, soap, shampoo and every other skin care product you use on an ongoing basis.

Sunday, September 21, 2014

Eyes Made Bigger and Better

It does not really matter how small your eyes are. These tips and tricks are guaranteed to make them bigger-whether you want them to appear really huge or just have that popping effect to them.1. Groom your eyebrowsWhoever said that unkempt eyebrows are OK should definitely take the highway. Really, unkempt eyebrows are very unflattering-for men and women alike! Make sure to keep your eyebrows in good shape. Invest in salon trips at scheduled intervals to keep them groomed. If you are confident about your grooming skills, then you can go ahead and groom your brows yourself. Just make sure to follow your eyes' natural shape, and you'll do fine.2. Conceal dark circles under your eyesDark circles definitely make you look older, if not tired. Technically, concealing these circles does not really make your eyes appear bigger. But we all know that dark circles can grab anyone's attention. It's better to conceal them, rather than have someone check out your eyes for the wrong reasons.3. White eye shadow is betterEven makeup artists would give you this tip. White eye shadow gives the illusion of eyes that are wide open. Make sure to use white eye shadow or white eye pencil near your tear ducts. Your tear ducts are on the inner corner of your eyes, by the way. If you do not have white eye shadow or eye pencil, you can use another light color.4. Use eyeliner moderatelyToo much eyeliner does not make your eyes appear bigger. So, make sure to avoid making a full circle of eyeliner around your eyes. And if you're using kajal, just apply outside your lash line. Do not apply kajal on the inner rim of your lower lash line. Also, make sure not to extend the eyeliner up to your tear ducts. Just cover 2/3 of your lashes.


5. Apply nude pencilIf you're applying kajal, make sure to apply nude pencil over it. Apply white eye pencil on your lower lash line's inner rim. Bear in mind that white eye pencil might not look too good on brown or dark skin tones. So if you have a dark skin tone, you can use a nude eye pencil instead. This gives a more natural look, which you can comfortably wear even during the day. You may want to consider using MAC Chromagraphic Pencil or Bourjois Khol and Contour Eyeliner Pencil- 08 Rose Fantaisiste.6. Use false eye lashes or mascaraIf you prefer mascara, use two to three coats. Or if you have false eye lashes, you can use them in place of mascara. You can also use both, if you want. Just make sure to cover just 2/3 of your outer lash line for either or both false eye lashes and mascara.7. Keep your eyebrows boldWhen you shape your eyebrows or have a salon shape your eyebrows, make sure that they make it bold and slightly thicker. Having thick and bold eyebrows helps in making your eyes look bigger. Just make sure their shape compliments the shape of your face as well.8. Get rid of that puffinessIf the skin around your eyes is swollen, your eyes will appear small. Here are some tips on reducing the puffiness of your eyes:• Have enough sleep.• Reduce salt in your diet.• Maintain exercise because this can reduce eye puffiness.• Use cold water when you wash your face, and wash often.• Place cold, used tea bags over your eyes. The tannis in the tea tightens your skin.

Thursday, September 18, 2014

Microdermabrasion - New Definition Of Beauty

Microdermabrasion is the process of exfoliating the skin by using very tiny crystal like substances. It is the use of a tiny abrasive instrument that gets rid of all the dead skin in critical areas like the face. In the human skin, there is a thick and uneven outer layer that protects the skin from bad weather and pathogens. This method rejuvenates the skin by treating skin that is scarred or discolored and skin that sun damage has affected. This method has very many benefits. Microdermabrasion removes spots and blackheads, exfoliates the skin, lessens stretch marks, reduces lines and wrinkles, treats acne, reduces hyperpigmentation and eliminates large pores.MicrodermabrasionThis method also works to thicken the collagen fibers in the human skin. Collagen is the component that gives the skin a younger look and feel. Collagen is very abundant when people are in their formative years and this explains why children have tight, flawless and beautiful skin. Scientists believe that microdermabrasion is the answer to most common skin ailments. Microdermabrasion makes use of diamond crystals or aluminum oxide crystals in a pressurized wand to remove the outer layer of the skin. Sometimes, this procedure is light and it can take place in an office or day spa. There needs to be a trained professional to carry it out. Some people also do it at home by using fine materials that scrub and exfoliate the skin. Many cosmetic companies grind seeds and nuts like apricot and make a fine facial and body scrub (Plasticsurgery.org).Most clients find the microdermabrasion procedure to be slightly uncomfortable to mildly painful. In this process, there is no need to take anesthetics. There is a more aggressive process called dermabrasion, which is surgical and very painful and should not be confused with microdermabrasion. The microdermabrasion technique requires a machine that applies a vacuum suction and pressure to the skin. The amount of suction and pressure depends on the resistance of the skin and the preference of the trained professional.


A simple session takes about ten minutes to one hour depending on the way the professional will approach it. There is little to no recovery time after a microderm procedure. The professional may give a cream to the patient to apply after the treatment. This soothes the exfoliated skin and prevents any bacteria from entering the skin. Traditionally, professionals use corundum crystals or sodium bicarbonate powder to abrade the skin. Another type of microdermabrasion technique is to use a diamond crystal tip on the machine wand. Both techniques are effective and are used widely today.The top layer of the skin is the Stratum Corneum or the dead skin. This layer has dirt and skin debris. The human skin is in a constant state of regeneration and growth. Microdermabrasion ensures that the body produces younger skin quicker and this changes the overall appearance. Most people repeat this procedure every four weeks because the skin regenerates every 30 days. Scientists have noted that when people carry out this procedure faithfully, avoid the sun and apply sunscreen when they are in the sun, they get the best results. The procedure works on all skin colors. Its effects are gradual under routine use. The skin changes color slightly after the procedure but it reverts back to the original color in a day. For example, light skinned people turn pink because of the abrasion and they might feel their skin tingle a bit, but this is temporary.Despite the many advantages, the procedure has some disadvantages. One of it is pain and tingly sensation that results after someone comes from the procedure. In very uncommon cases microdermabrasion can cause scarring. It is important to received treatment from a trained esthetician. A trained professional will ensure that the machine, their hands, and the client's skin is clean and sanitary to avoid infections. One of the main goals of the practice is to reduce minor and major skin blemishes. Men and women seek this treatment to keep their skin looking youthful, even, and radiant.

Sunday, September 14, 2014

How To Find Women Haircuts That Will Be Flattering On You

Women are very concerned about how they look to the rest of the world. When a woman gets ready to go out she takes hours choosing the right outfit, applying makeup, and fixing her hair so that she looks her very best. That is why females agonize so long over women haircuts before they go to the salon.Finding women haircuts that will look good with their particular hair type, and face shape, is crucial to a woman feeling like she looks her very best. When they go to a salon they want to see pictures of women's hair in stylish cuts so they can choose one for their own hair.Fashion magazines are one of the first places that you can go to when you are looking for women's hair in stylish cuts that will flatter you. In order to use the pictures to discern how the style will look on you it is crucial that you identify your face shape, and select cuts shown on females with the same shape faces.Your face is either round, heart shaped, or oval. There are a few women who will have a square jaw line, but mostly this is a male trait, so finding pictures of women's hair in stylish cuts on faces with square jawlines will be difficult.Once you have identified your face shape you must decide what characteristics your hair has naturally. If you have naturally curly hair, that is coarse, then you do not want to be choosing styles depicted on the head of models who have board straight hair that is fine. The results of women's haircuts depend on the type of hair they have.


There are many variables to hair types, but the thickness of the hair will be one of the main deciding factors in whether or not you can wear the style you are seeing in the magazine. Thick hair can be cut into shorter styles and will stay in position naturally. Thinner hair may not be able to hold the style you are creating without styling gels to hold it in place. In some instances the styling gel will not be able to hold the hair in place to re-create the look of the model.The best way to find a hair style that will look flattering on your face shape, and be manageable with your hair type, is to ask your stylist to help you. Stylists have magazines that are filled with images of people who have the same face shape, and hair thickness, that you have. Your stylist also knows your hair, and knows how well it responds to styling gels, flat irons, and curlers.It is highly recommended that you find a style you think is flattering and stick with it. If you think your hair looks good cut short then do not try to wear longer hair just to be fashionable. A woman looks her best when she is confident, and when she accepts what looks good on her.

Thursday, September 11, 2014

Tips For Hair Color That Looks Natural On You

Stylish haircuts look better when your hair color is vibrant. Many women were born with hair color that simply looks dull, and lifeless. These women would like to change their hair color, but they do not want to look strange. The following tips will help you to choose colors that look good on you.Your complexion is what determines whether a hair color will look good on you, or will make you look odd. A natural red head, with a fair complexion, can ruin stylish haircuts, by dying their hair black, deep brown, or other really dark colors. People with naturally dark hair have naturally darker complexions, and almost always have brown eyes. Do not try to dye your hair black if you have a light skinned complexion.If you want to enhance the color of your hair, and improve the look of the stylish haircuts you get then stick to a dye that will color your hair within two shades of the color you were born to have. If you are blonde naturally then stick with darker blondes, light browns, or lighter blondes. These colors will look good with your complexion, and will not make you looked washed out, or pale.Any dye that has the word ash in the name will have a hint of red in it. If you have hair that already has a hint of red in it then using an ash blonde will cause the red in your hair to be more prominent. People with red undertones have to stay away from the dues that have ash in the name.


Look closely at the color dye package when you are choosing a new shade. On the side of the package the manufacturer places a color chart to show you what shade your hair will turn out depending on the shade it is naturally. If your hair is already colored then you want to consider how the shade of color you have is going to be changed by the shade you are about to purchase.You may need to have any old dyes stripped from your hair before you can put a new color on your hair. Stripping the color away is not recommended as a home color treatment. You should go to a salon to have this procedure done.If you have grey hairs that you are attempting to dye you will have to leave the dye solution on the hair longer than for hair that is not grey. Grey hair does not accept the dye as readily as pre-grey hair does. Read the instructions carefully to find out how long the solution will take to dye grey hair. If your grey hairs are close to the root place the solution on them first, and then after an appropriate amount of time you can spread the solution to the remaining hair. This will stop you from having darker hair on the bottom, and lighter colored hair next to the roots.

Tuesday, September 9, 2014

Some Important Tips About Clip in Hair Extensions

Everyone wants his/her hair to look great and charming. But you may feel embarrassed about your hair's condition. Sometimes you want to make a new hairstyle, but the hair is too short, sometimes you want your hair to be curly, but you do not have so much time to make it curly in a salon. Instead of wishing and waiting for your hair to grow longer, you can use clip in hair extensions to help you, just like what many others have done. These extensions are not expensive and easy to get. You do not need to spend hours and hours in the salon to get the hairstyle you want, you only need to clip them in and unclip them to get what you desire. You can even wear them when sleeping.If the clip in extensions are made of human hair, you can even wear them for sunbathing, because human hair extensions can suffer high extensive heat, while extensions made of synthetic hair do not react well to strong heat, therefore, synthetic extensions are less versatile. Compared to human hair extensions, the synthetic ones can never fully blend in with your natural hair to look realistic and natural, although sometimes they can give you a shocking hairstyle.Now let's talk something about human hair clip in extensions. Because the hair is human, it can not always have a healthy shine and stay in good condition. But there is an exception, hair from Indian people usually carries a great cachet. Therefore, you need to take care of them from time to time to keep them as healthy as the real hair.


There is a wide range of human hair extensions available over the internet, so you can not make up your mind. Before you make the payment, you can read testimonials or reviews about the extensions in the related shops. Or you can get some professional advice from someone whose opinions are valuable and trustworthy.Usually a full set of clip in extensions contains at least 7pcs, so when you purchase a full set, you need to pay attention to how many pieces you will receive. How to wear them? Usually you wear the smaller pieces on the sides and the larger pieces for the back of your head, and you can start clipping them in at the back.When buying clip in extensions, another important thing is that, you need to select the one that has a similar texture with your natural hair, so that it can blend in well with the hair and look more realistic and natural. It is suggested to purchase the one which is thicker in texture than your own hair, that way it can give you a full look.

Saturday, September 6, 2014

The New Best Friend: Dry Shampoo and What You Need to Know

If you're new to the hair extensions game, you probably don't yet know all the ins and outs, tips and tricks. While you may think they are too much maintenance, they don't have to be. You just need to have the right products and tools. The first product you should invest in is dry shampoo. If you don't already have a favorite, we suggest trying a few before writing them off.You might be thinking, "dry shampoo leaves a powdery residue on my hair," or "It's too expensive!" But this is not all true. Not all dry shampoos leave a powdery residue nor do they have to be expensive. Whatever your budget is, you can spend as much or as little as you want on a bottle. But one thing is for sure if you're wearing extensions-you can't afford not to have at least one bottle. Even if you are not wearing hair extensions, dry shampoo should be one of your best friends.To answer your question as to why it's especially important for hair extensions is that it will keep your micro-beads, bond, or tape intact. If your stylist hasn't told you by now, you shouldn't wash your hair too often. You want to keep the washes in between 2-3 washes a week. In between washes you should use a dry shampoo. It is meant to absorb the excess oil that your scalp produces, therefore keeping the connection between your natural hair and the extensions dry and fresh.


Think about it: you fiddle and tug at your hair extensions while you wash your hair in the shower. Any way to eliminate this stress is ideal. By spraying your hair with dry shampoo, you avoid all of that hassle while keeping your hair oil-free and fresh. Just spray some on your roots, let it sit for a minute, then comb through with your brush, or work in with your fingers.As mentioned earlier, dry shampoo should be in everyone's vanity, even if you don't have hair extensions. Washing your hair daily in the shower with shampoo tends to strip the scalp of the natural oils your hair needs to be healthy and maintain its shine. Your hair extensions don't intake the oil from your scalp, so frequent washing can really dry them out, as each wash removes important moisture.With dry shampoo gaining so much popularity, we now have so many options in choosing the right one for our hair types. From budget friendly, to a special formula, to a smell you'll be drawn to, it is a staple in hair extension care and shouldn't be ignored! This new shampoo method is the best design in the industry. We strive to have the very best quality and formula on the market today. Shop at Donna Bella today for the best new ideas and the best overall products on the market today.

Wednesday, September 3, 2014

Toluene - A Harmful Chemical In Nail Polish

Nail polish is notorious for its toxic chemicals and harmful ingredients. One of the most harmful substances found in this beauty product is toluene. This chemical is part of the "toxic-trio," which refers to the three most dangerous ingredients found in many nail polish brands today. The toxic trio consists of toluene, DBP (dibutyl phthalate) and formaldehyde. This article explains what the chemical toluene is and its purpose, why it should be avoided as much as possible (particularly during pregnancy) and what other alternatives are available for women who are health-conscious or sensitive to the chemical toluene.Toluene - why it is usedThe reason why many beauty companies include toluene as an ingredient in their nail polish is because it is a solvent which assists in the smooth application of nail polish and also acts as a thinner.Why Toluene is a dangerous chemicalThe facts about toluene are rather concerning and would make most people think twice about buying normal over-the-counter nail polish brands again. This abrasive chemical comes from petroleum, so the toxic smell is bad enough in itself. Associated risks of toluene are liver and kidney damage, irritation of the skin, headaches, dizziness and birth defects. High levels of toluene exposure can cause brain lesions, behavioural abnormalities and a wide range of other possible side effects. Much research has been done in this area and exposure to toluene should be kept to an absolute minimal. Be aware also that toluene is often an ingredient in certain household products, paints and solvents - so exposure can accumulate.


Is it a necessary ingredient?Toluene is not a necessary component in nail polish as there are several brands available these days that do not include this harmful substance as one of their ingredients. So thankfully you do not have to go polish free in order to avoid this chemical. Rather, you simply have to know your alternatives and get to know the chemical-free brands available on the market today.Is nail polish during pregnancy safe (including toluene)?Pregnant women should avoid wearing nail polish containing chemicals of the infamous "toxic-trio", including toluene. Toluene has been linked to birth defects with women who have had over-exposure to this harmful solvent. Therefore pregnant women should avoid going to salons which use polish containing toluene, and should also avoid typical nasty brands on the market. Even low-level exposure of toluene could be potentially harmful to the developing fetus. Mothers should be diligent in researching chemical-free alternatives and only applying these during pregnancy. This will guard against possible fetal development damage that may otherwise result.

Monday, September 1, 2014

Finding the Best Retinol Cream for Your Skin

It is usually impossible to turn back the clock. Nevertheless, with the best retinol face cream you can give your skin a youthful glow! Retinol is one of the priceless gifts you can give your ageing skin. Known for its anti-ageing properties like reducing fine lines and wrinkles, improving skin texture, and fading age spots. However, that is not the only benefit you can get from the best retinol cream. It can also help acne prone skin have fewer breakouts and smaller pores. It is also proven to reduce skin oil production, making it an effective treatment for oily skin. With so many benefits from one ingredient, you are bound to be buying yourself the best retinol cream in the market. Nevertheless, with so many choices, how do you find the best one? Here is how.Every organ in your body needs a well-balanced diet in order to function smoothly and efficiently. It is obvious then that the skin, the largest organ in the human body, also needs adequate supply of nutrients to look well-toned, smooth, and healthy. Skin that is not well nourished and hydrated looks lifeless and easily gives away the most dreaded signs of ageing! When choosing the best retinol cream for your skin, bear in mind the following points:• There are several anti-ageing creams available in the market and retinol are certainly one among the best. However, many so-called retinol creams only contain minute or negligible quantities of retinol. At such low proportions, the cream cannot function effectively. You must always choose the cream with a high concentration of retinol. While the right concentration of retinol varies with the skin types, the best retinol creams that suit a variety of skin types contain 0.5% of retinol. Nonetheless, depending on your skin type, your dermatologist may recommend a milder or a stronger formula - say 0.1% or 1%.


• The skin needs to be moisturized adequately to look smooth, supple, and have a youthful glow. Therefore, when choosing the best retinol cream, you must always look for one with a moisturizer. This will not only fight visible signs of ageing, but will also help you look younger with a charming, youthful glow!• Expert advice is often the best, and so it is best to consult your dermatologist. The best retinol creams are often the first to be recommended by the dermatologists. With expert advice, you can trust you are going to get the best results for your skin.• You should always keep an eye out for creams with alpha hydroxyl acids. Retinol creams with alpha hydroxyl acids are most effective in warding off the signs of ageing. You should also check if the cream has come in an airtight container. Retinol is highly susceptible to contamination and is bound to be less effective when it is contaminated.• You should also remember that every skin type is different. A cream that works wonders for your best friend may not exactly be the best retinol cream for you! You should always take time to do ample research to find the best cream for your individual skin type.Use the above tips to find the best retinol cream on the market and give your skin a softer, smoother, more youthful appearance!

Saturday, August 30, 2014

Getting Rid Of Under Eye Circles - Tips To Look Fresh And Rested

Under eye circles have the unfortunate ability of drawing other people's attention towards them? If you have dark and saggy skin under your eyes then you will not be able to avoid looking old and tired. The skin under your eyes is very thin and it is therefore very prone to puffiness as a result of water accumulation. This skin also gets wrinkled very easily and therefore starts to look very dark.While there are indeed quite a few ways of covering up your dark under eye circles which are glaring flaws on your face, you might not always be able to do this. In any case, why don't you consider getting rid of these circles instead of hiding them? The following tips will definitely be of great help to you:1. Sleep more. Since the most common cause of under eye circles or bags under the eyes is insufficient rest, it definitely makes sense for you to get the right amount of sleep every night. The minimum amount needed varies from person to person, but 6 to 8 hours of uninterrupted sleep is definitely a must.2. If you are a smoker then you should give up the habit immediately since it causes premature aging of the skin around the eyes.


3. Hydrate the skin around your eyes and apply sunscreen to it so as to keep wrinkles at bay. You do not need to use a fancy product; any good moisturizer or sunscreen will protect your skin as long as you use it regularly. Any product that contains retinoic acid will be very effective at protecting the delicate skin around your eyes.4. Do be very careful when touching the skin around your eyes. Do not pull at the skin when you apply moisturizer to it.5. If you already have puffy eyes and under eye circles, perhaps because you have been crying a lot or drinking or have been sleep deprived, then you could reduce the problem by applying cold tea bags or slices or cucumber to your closed eyes.In case you are unable to get rid of your dark under eye circles entirely then you might consider hiding them. A high quality concealer will do the job fairly well as long as it matches your skin color perfectly. Products that contain caffeine can also help alleviate this problem. You could also use skin lightening products containing kojic acid to make your under eye skin look lighter and brighter.

Thursday, August 28, 2014

Vaser Hi-Def Helps You to Get Sculpted Body

If you want a perfect figure combined with a chiselled body, then you can go for liposuction surgery. Vaser liposuction surgery can be performed on patients belonging to any age group. But the best results of Vaser liposuction are seen in patients whose skin have not lost its elasticity, i.e., the younger the skin, the better is the outcome of the operation.Vaser Lipo can be performed a lot quicker than older methods of liposuction. It has evolved further with the use of hi-def. This is because the surgeon does not need to meticulously cut the fat from the body. It can sculpt the body in a way that traditional liposuction procedures could not. It allows surgeons to target small areas of fat on the body in a very precise manner. This enabled the patients to achieve maximum fat-reducing results.Vaser Hi-Def helps men mainly to get a more well-defined muscular appearance. Even after hours of strenuous exercise at the gym, yearning to get that athletic, well-contoured look is not possible. With hi-def and sculpting using vaser one can remove the excess body fat and skin and give you the desired look. It uses cutting edge ultrasound technology for making a toned body. The most common areas include buttocks, abdomen, thighs, waist, flanks, arms, neck, chin, cheeks, chest, and so on.The procedure is quite simple, as it is quite similar to liposuction surgery. Thin probes are used through which ultrasound energy is passed, which breaks down the stubborn fat. Then the surgeon takes the stubborn fat with the help of a 'cannula' and suction process. This ensures minimal trauma to the connective tissue and nerve cell.Every surgery comes with certain advantages and disadvantages. So does vaser hi-def. Following are the advantages and disadvantages.


The advantages of undergoing Vaser Hi-Def Liposculpting surgery as follows:• It can help you to get rid of the superficial fat.
• It can be also used for pectoral enhancement.
• It can help you to get the sculpted look.
• It is a minimally invasive procedure; therefore it will be less painful.The disadvantages of undergoing Vaser Hi-Def Liposculpting surgery as follows:• It will leave you with minor scarring.
• Large volume of fat cannot be removed.The ideal candidates for this cosmetic surgery are; men and women who are having a healthy lifestyle and want an extra definition for their body. Secondly, those who are frustrated with unwanted fat that is not responding to exercise and diet.However, one should keep in mind that this procedure is not for everyone. It is not advisable for those who have experienced severe weight loss or for those have skin laxity.It would be better if you consult a general physician (G.P), before heading for the surgery.Coming to price it varies depending on the areas that are going to be operated or the type of surgery the patient is opting for. The price of Vaser Liposuction starts from £1,990 for one area, £2,990 for two areas, £3,990 for three areas and £4,600 for four areas. Under general anesthetic, it costs around £3,200 for one area, £4,400 for two areas, £5,600 for three areas, £6,800 for four areas and £8,000 for five areas.

Tuesday, August 26, 2014

Cancer Causing Formaldehyde (Methanal) In Nail Polish

Beauty products are notorious for their high-chemical content and their carcinogenic substances. Many typical on-the-shelf nail polish products are rampant in deadly chemicals. Formaldehyde (or methanal) is a common toxic preservative found amongst the long list of many nail polish ingredients, as well as many nail-hardeners and other beauty products. This is a real worry since formaldehyde is a cancer-causing substance which puts women at risk.What is formaldehyde?Formaldehyde, also known as methanal, is a toxic chemical. It is used in many nail products such as polishes and hardeners and acts as a nail hardener and preservative.Who is at risk? Women who have high-exposure or pro-longed exposure to products containing formaldehyde (methanal) have a high risk of developing cancers throughout their body. This is because formaldehyde is a carcinogen. Low-level exposure is generally fine, however women who use nail polishes and hardeners containing formaldehyde on a regular basis are at a higher risk. Women who work at nail salons are also at a very high risk if the enamels used contain this substance.Pregnant women should completely avoid using any beauty products or enamels containing formaldehyde to guard against any possible harm to the unborn child.A dangerous carcinogenicFormaldehyde was classified as a "known human carcinogen" by the IARC (International Agency for Research on Cancer). Possible cancers and life-threatening diseases caused by or associated with formaldehyde are: nasal sinus cancer, nasopharyngeal cancer as well as leukaemia.


Reduce your risk of cancer caused by formaldehyde (methanal):Women should take all possible precautions to reduce their risk of developing cancer related to this toxic substance. They can achieve this by being diligent in reading the product labels on their beauty products. Avoiding all nail polishes and hardeners which contain this carcinogen would be a wise safeguard. Women who work in beauty salons which use formaldehyde-containing polishes and hardeners should always wear a mask to avoid inhaling this chemicals toxic fumes. Pregnant women should stay clear of nail polish salons during their pregnancy.Natural AlternativesNowadays there are more natural nail polish brands available which do not contain formaldehyde in their ingredients. Do your research and find the best possible polishes and nail products available which will not harm your body. It is often frustrating to read the long ingredient lists of beauty products in-store, so do your research on the internet to save time and unnecessary frustration. You can find many more natural water-based nail products on the internet, often at a reasonable price. Don't put yourself at unnecessary risk when there are more natural alternatives available.

Sunday, August 24, 2014

The Toxic Trio Nail Polish Chemicals - Beware!

Beware of the toxic trio chemicals in nail polish! What is the toxic trio? This term refers to the three most deadly ingredients in many popular nail polish brands. These chemicals are so deadly that high-exposure or pro-longed exposure may cause cancers, reproductive problems, skin irritations, asthma attacks and deformities of newborns. These toxic chemicals found in nail enamel products are especially dangerous to women during pregnancy as they could adversely affect the development of the unborn. All women should minimize exposure to toluene, DBP and formaldehyde (methanal) as much as possible to guard against developing serious (chemical-induced) health problems such as cancers.What is the toxic trio? The toxic trio refers to the three most harmful substances contained in many nail polish brands. The three chemicals are toluene, dibutyl phthalate (DBT) and formaldehyde (methanal).Do all nail polishes contain the chemicals of the toxic-trio?Some nail polishes contain all three chemicals of the toxic-trio, whist others only contain one or two of them. In fact, nowadays some healthier brands have come out on the market that exclude all three chemicals entirely from their nail enamel formula!What are the dangers associated with the toxic-trio?DBP (Dibutyl phthalate)This chemical has been known to cause breast cancer, birth defects of newborns, neurodevelopmental problems of newborns, fertility problems, disruptions of the reproductive system and asthma attacks. There is even a link between DBP and obesity.


FormaldehydeFormaldehyde, also known as methanal, is a carcinogenic chemical. It has been linked to nasal sinus cancer, nasopharyngeal cancer and even leukaemia. Other side-effects of formaldehyde are irritations to the skin, eyes and throat. Asthma attacks and skin rashes are a common side effect for persons who are highly sensitive to this chemical. Abnormal menstrual cycles are also common amongst women who have been over-exposed to formaldehyde.TolueneToluene exposure frequently causes headaches, dizzy spells and skin irritations. High levels of exposure or pro-longed exposure may also cause more serious illnesses including kidney and liver damage, lesions of the brain, behavioural-abnormalities as well as birth defects.How to stay safeWomen should avoid wearing nail polishes containing the chemicals commonly referred to as the toxic trio. They should also avoid inhaling the toxic smell of these chemicals which is rampant at nail salons. Nowadays there are several nail enamel brands that are formaldehyde (methanal)-free, DBP-free and toluene free. Ensure that your nail enamel ingredients are not masked under some other strange names. Do your research and opt for the more natural water-based nail polishes available. Women should also stay clear from chemical-based nail polishes during pregnancy.

Tuesday, August 19, 2014

How to Select the Perfect Hair Style

Most people take a lot of time and care selecting their clothing and accessories to suit their body type, personality and lifestyle. The same time and attention should be taken when selecting your hairstyle. Your hairstyle should complement your face shape and personality.Face shapes are broadly categorized as follows: square, oval, round, long, diamond and heart shaped. Determining your face shape will help you in selecting the perfect hairstyleSquare - if you have a strong square jaw line, you most likely have a square face. A good hairstyle for a square face will be to balance out all your facial features and soften the jaw line. Consider a short to medium cut. This type of cut will bring focus upwards and soften the jaw line. Avoid short hairstyles that are above the chin as this will only accentuate a square jaw line.Oval - consider yourself blessed. Oval faces can wear both long and short hair and look fabulous.Round - A round face is a full face and they tend to be wide at the hairline. Consider a hairstyle that will elongate the face with hairstyles that hit at the chin or longer. Short curly hairstyles are not flattering. Additionally avoid center parting as this places emphasis on the shortness of the face.Long - to flatter a long face consider a haircut that adds width to the face. A mid-length bob or a heavy layered cut is perfect. Long wavy hair is flattering too as it will also give the illusion of widening and shortening the face.


Diamond - characteristics are a narrow forehead and the jawline comes to a distinct point at the chin. Additionally the face is widest at the cheekbones. The cheekbones are will defined and often high on the face. The perfect hairstyle will add fullness and texture at the forehead and jawline yet avoiding fullness at the cheekbones. Consider a short hairstyle that is shorter than ear length with bangs. Additionally shoulder length and chin length hairstyles with a blunt cut and bangs will work as this style will highlight the beautiful cheekbone structure of a diamond face shape. Avoid center parts as they create an unbalanced look.Heart shaped - is wide at the temples and narrow at the chin. Select a hairstyle that will draw attention to the eyes and cheekbones Chin length bobs, short shags, swept forward layers and wispy bangs look great on this face type. Don't select a hairstyle that shows upper face more as it will make your chin look narrower.Selecting the perfect hairstyle that fits your face shape, personality and lifestyle can be challenging. However, it is doable once you understand which hairstyles compliment face shapes.