Showing posts with label Beauty. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Beauty. Show all posts

Friday, 6 January 2012

0
Gone are the days when shampoo simply did what it was expected to do, which was to clean hair by removing dirt and other buildup on it. But these days, there are many kinds of shampoos to choose from, that anyone shopping for shampoo will have to consider several things to make sure he or she gets the one that is best for his or her specific hair type.

1. For fine but oily or limp hair, your best bet is a shampoo that boasts of volumizing features. Avoid shampoo-and-conditioner formulas or those with a high priority on moisturizing, as this will only weigh down your limp hair. You would benefit best from daily shampooing, or every other day. This technique will help you get a sleek and radiant look. Be careful to apply conditioner only every two days.

Should you prefer to use conditioner daily, be sure to apply it only to the ends of your hair. If you are a person who uses a lot of styling products, revert to a clarifying shampoo once every week in order to get rid of product buildup. Experts also recommend using cold or lukewarm water. Using water that is too hot will cause hair cuticles to open, making your scalp and hair too dry, which results in oil glands compensating for that loss of moisture.

2. For curly hair, your choice should be a moisturizing shampoo, because curly hair tends to be coarse or dry. This is because the oils from the scalp are not able to down the hair as easily as with straight hair. This is also the reason why curly hair looks better when you don’t shampoo daily. Common moisturizers for shampoos best for curly hair include beeswax, shea butter, or nut oils. Experts recommend conditioner especially for curly hair.

3. If your hair is color-treated, color-protection shampoos would work best for you. The ingredients of these type of shampoos should be gentle cleansers such as ceramides which do not strip hair strands of their color. Some shampoos come with a color guard system or light reflecting formulas to nourish the hair and protect it from external aggressions. Experts explain that color-treated hair is in need of moisture. As such they recommend applying a hair masque about once a month to add moisture to the hair as well as to make it more manageable.

4. For thick and unruly dry hair, creamy shampoos should be your choice. They typically have ingredients that help to smoothen and detangle hair, as well as to diffuse static. Hair experts recommend a leave-in product for thick and unruly hair.

5. If you are prone to split-ends or substantial hair fall, you now have many options of shampoos geared especially to fight hair fall due to breakage. Experts recommend washing your hair with cool instead of warm water, as heat causes pores to open up and may result in a greater tendency for hair fall.

6. If you happen to have dandruff, your shampoo choice would have to be anti-dandruff choices. Dandruff is a sign that your scalp is prone to inflammation and irritation, which results in the white flakes. Look for shampoos with a gentle cleaning base, usually those made from coconut or castor oils that are generally gentle on hair while keeping your scalp in its natural balance.

7. For normal hair, double formula shampoos are fine to use. Shampoo and conditioner mixes can be used. Among the choices, the best ones are those that help protect your hair from environmental factors, as well as those that come with a system to maintain the hair’s pH level.

When you understand the mechanics of choosing the best shampoo, you will most likely experience healthier and easier to manage hair, no matter what your hair type. Also, you won’t be easily conned into trying the latest product when you know it isn’t even suitable for your hair type! This will save you much money in the long run. Of course, that doesn’t mean you can’t pamper your hair once in a while; you deserve a special treat once a month wherein you indulge in a treatment that rejuvenates your hair and scalp!

read more

Thursday, 5 January 2012

0

Tips for trendy nails

  • Thursday, 5 January 2012
  • Ramit Hooda
  • We talk to some of the most important stylists in the country to find out what's the latest style for the fingertips:

    Lata Khanchandani
    Art done on French manicured nails is in today. Nail lacquer that stays on for a month is also quite popular. Oval, square and round nail shapes are in vogue though one must keep in mind the nail length and shape of the hand while selecting the shape. One can try red and transparent nail polishes this season.

    Aalim Hakim
    Always keep your nails clean. That's the first and foremost thing to make your hands look pretty. Square nails are very much in fashion now. Extended nails with colourful polish look good. One can use beads, stones, stickers on painted nails. French manicure, black, white and red polish will never go out of fashion.

    Aniruddha Chakladar
    Though people are trying out different kinds of nail art, my all-time fave is red-painted long manicured nails. Black nail polish and shocking colours are also in fashion. Beads, flowers, feathers, clips and stones can be glued on the manicured nail surface to look ornamental. Round pink nail tips with a silver glitter line and small flower stickers on them also look elegant. Nail art stickers on alternating nails look fine. One can also try two or three different colours of polish on the nails to create a drama.

    Jawed Habib
    People with fair skin must always opt for dark polish. Those with a dark complexion should be careful with the colour. Red nails will always be in fashion. French manicure will also never go out of fashion. Both round and square nails are in vogue. Nail paints, beads, extended nails with rings look trendy. Painted nails with stones glued to them also look really good.

    read more
    0

    Leftover fruits give you radiant skin

  • Ramit Hooda
  • Lemons, tomatoes, papaya, bananas, eggs are a few to name that top the list of leftovers in the fridge. Its time to stop fretting about wastage and the money spent.

    We tell you a few ways of using it wisely...
    Lemons are very good for hair. Wash your hair with lemons. It is very good for oily and greasy hair. It has excellent nourishing properties like Vitamins B and A. This will take care of the dandruff and get rid of similar scalp problems.

    Leftover bananas that changes colour to black are very useful in making your skin glow. Overripe bananas are very high in vitamin A, B and E, all of which benefit the skin. Mash a banana and put it all over your face till it completely dies up and rinse off after 15-20 minutes.

    Papayas are good cleansers. It has Enzyme Papain which removes blemishes and rejuvenates an undernourished skin. Mash papayas and mix some honey to make a pack which you can smear all over your hands, neck and face. Wash after 15-20 minutes for a blemish free skin.

    Eggs works wonders for skin and hair. Mix egg white with mayo and honey to make a thick paste. This can be applied to your hair as well. Egg has pure protein which will make your hair strong and honey that will bring out the lustre that was till now lacking in your tresses.

    So, leftover fruits, vegetables and even poultry can contribute to your healthy skin and hair. Next time you spot something lying in your refrigerator unused, you know what to do.
    read more

    Wednesday, 4 January 2012

    0

    Alternative Remedy for Stretch Marks

  • Wednesday, 4 January 2012
  • Ramit Hooda
  • Stretch marks generally pose no threat to the health, but since they can be unsightly at times, some people, especially women, choose to have them treated. There are several treatments designed for the reduction of stretch marks in the body, but while they may prove to be effective, they can be hard on the budget at times. For that reason, people have developed alternative remedies that will help get rid of stretch marks from the skin, or at least reduce their appearance.
    These at-home remedies are not the ultimate answer for stretch marks, but people who have tried them claim that they are both safe and effective to use. But what’s more important is that they are less pricey and can even come for free sometimes.

    Olive oil is first on the list of home remedies for stretch marks, simply because they are easier to find and have been proven to be effective in treating several kinds of body ailment. Olive oil is extracted from the fruit of the olive tree, and for thousands of years, it has been used as medicine because of its healing properties. It contains carotenoids, an antioxidant that promotes healing of skin tissues. Aside from that, olive oil can also act as a natural moisturizer.

    Skin dryness can make stretch marks appear worse, so by keeping your skin well-hydrated, you can reduce the appearance of these ugly marks. There are several options in using olive oil for the removal of stretch marks. You can either drink it or apply it to your skin. To create your own stretch mark lotion using olive oil, mix a cup of olive oil to half cup of aloe vera extract and 5 capsules of vitamin E supplement. Rub the lotion on your skin twice a day, once in the morning after taking a bath, and once at night before turning going to sleep.

    Almond oil is another plant extract you can use to get rid of stretch marks. Obtained from almond nut, almond oil has high vitamin E content. It’s also rich in manganese, magnesium, protein, and some omega-3 fatty acids. Almond oil is mainly used in aromatherapy, but has also been found to be a good remedy for stretch marks. Massage your skin with almond oil once a day to do away with the stretch marks. Its vitamin E content will help lighten your skin that is affected with stretch marks and reduce the appearance of the marks as well.

    Another plant source you can use for the treatment of stretch marks is aloe vera. A lot of people have grown to love aloe vera because of its many skin benefits. In fact, it is one of the most used herbal remedy for centuries now. Aloe vera has many healing attributes and has been used for the removal of acne scars, treating sunburn, and strengthening the scalp. Today, many people use it to get rid of stretch marks. Since aloe vera contains collagen, it can easily penetrate deep into the skin and promote healing among skin tissues. To use aloe vera, simply cut a stalk from your aloe vera plant at home and extract the gel. If you don’t have an aloe vera plant, you can also buy the commercial aloe vera gel from your local pharmacy. Apply the gel to your skin regularly until you see your stretch marks starting to disappear.

    If you want to prevent the appearance of stretch marks during your pregnancy, you can use castor oil as a home remedy. Castor oil comes from castor beans. It has anti-inflammatory properties and contains antioxidants that help keep the skin freed from damage caused by free radicals. The only source of Ricinoleic acid, castor oil has the ability to penetrate the skin and destroy tissues that cause the formation of stretch marks. During the early stages of pregnancy, you can rub castor oil on your stomach. Experts claim that by doing so, you will have a higher chance of preventing stretch marks from forming.

    Such alternative treatments for stretch marks have no therapeutic claims. Some may even contain substances that can be harsh for sensitive skin. But if you have a go signal from your dermatologist in using such methods, why not give them a shot and see for yourself whether they actually work or not?

    read more

    Tuesday, 3 January 2012

    0

    Home Remedies for Chapped Lips

  • Tuesday, 3 January 2012
  • Ramit Hooda
  • The lips are among the body parts that many women are so preoccupied about, with a big percentage envying and wishing they had the attractive, pouty lips they see in the movies on in advertisements. But there is another reason why women pay attention to their lips: when puckering becomes too painful and pursing their lips becomes almost unbearable.

    Chapped lips are actually more common than anybody would guess, as they can easily be caused by harsh winters, dry indoor conditions with high temperatures, or even the habit of licking one’s lips constantly. All of these contribute to drying out the skin on one’s lips by causing any moisture to evaporate from them. Eventually, this will result in cracked, rough, and sensitive lips that keep you from making even the slightest smiles.

    Not only is protecting one’s lips crucial for keeping a pretty appearance and daily comfort, health issues are also at stake. Lips damaged by chapping tend to be breeding grounds for bacterial infections, cold sores, as well as many other problems. Whatever your reason for healing your chapped lips, the following tips should prove helpful:

    1. Avoid licking – While licking your lips might make you feel better, it is actually just a temporary relief, and you will wind up making things worse. Think of how constantly washing one’s hands dries it out; this is also what happens when you lick your lips constantly: your lips get exposed to water repeatedly, subsequently robbing moisture from your skin. The end-result would be lips that are increasingly dry.

    2. Use a protective barrier – For this, you can apply petroleum jelly on your lips, or apply lip balm, if you prefer having a nice scent or taste. Thankfully, there are many brands of lip balm now available in the market, and no prescription is needed. From the different scents and flavors, pick the one that you like; this way, you will have no qualms about using it frequently. Lip balms are mostly greasy or waxy, and they work by sealing in the moisture with their protective barrier.

    3. Use sunscreen – While you will probably not be able to use your regular sunscreen on your lips, the point is that you understand how the harmful ultraviolet rays of the sun can be just as damaging, if not more, on the sensitive skin on a person’s lips as they can be on skin on other body parts. This is because the lips do not contain melanin, or the pigmentation that protects the skin from UV rays. You can apply sunscreen on your lips by picking a lip balm that has sunscreen. The sun protection factor (SPF) should be at least 15.

    4. Use lipstick – Women who already use lipstick may not need to be told to do so. Studies have indeed shown that older women had a lower risk of developing skin damage on their lips compared to older men, and speculation revolves around lipstick being the helpful barrier. Lipstick apparently offers a certain degree of protection against UV rays, and it also functions as a moisturizer. If you can find lipstick that comes with sunscreen, it would be even better.

    5. Check your toothpaste – Some toothpastes or mouthwash may be to blame for your lips becoming rough and red, perhaps due to an allergy. If none of the above seems to help, consider using other brands of toothpaste or skipping your mouthwash over a few days. Also remember to rinse well after you brush.

    6. Watch what passes your lips – Chapped lips are more sensitive, and there are certain types of food that may cause more irritation than others. If your lips are chapped, try to steer clear of acidic foods like orange juice, barbecue sauce, or pepper, as well as alcoholic beverages and mustard, to give your lips a chance to heal properly.

    From these simple tips, you should be more informed about the proper way to care for your lips, not just when they are damaged but also for daily care. Once you are armed with the right information, you can very well kiss your chapped lips goodbye, and enjoy those sweet kissers puckering anytime you want without any pain or discomfort.

    read more

    Saturday, 31 December 2011

    0

    Megan Fox goes for weekly facials

  • Saturday, 31 December 2011
  • Ramit Hooda
  • "I don't have time to do masks, but I love having them done as part of a facial. If I'm not working, I have an oxygen facial once a week. It's important to go out and have a steam and get the toxins out," the UK based website femalefirst quoted Fox as saying.

    The 25-year-old beauty, who is married to actor Brian Austin Greene, also revealed how she tries not to wear make-up when she doesn't have to.

    "I don't wear make-up when I'm not working, unless I'm going on a date with my husband. Then, I'll do a dewy tinted moisturiser with a lip gloss and tons of mascara," she said.
    read more
    0

    Pedicure at home in 5 easy steps

  • Ramit Hooda
  • Step 1:

    First, you need to trim and shape your nails. Remove your old nail polish with the nail polish remover and trim your nails neatly. Make sure you cut straight across and don't cut the corners too much, as this can lead to painful ingrown nails. Use a nail file to give them the desired shape.

    Step 2:

    Give your feet a nice foot bath. In a basin or tub, fill warm water enough to cover up to your ankles and add some bath salts. You can also add a few drops of any essential oil of your choice. Also add a few smooth pebbles to the water. These will provide a gentle massage as you place your feet on them. Soak your feet and relax for 15-20 minutes. Dry them with a towel.

    Step 3:

    The next step is exfoliating. Once you are done with the foot bath, dry you feet and rub some cuticle cream on the base of each toe nail. Leave it for a few minutes. In the meanwhile, using a foot scrub and remove all the dry and dead skin cells. Be firm but do not scrape too hard. Next, wipe off the cuticle cream and push back the cuticles gently with a cuticle pusher.

    Step 4:

    Once you are done scrubbing, wash your feet clean and moisturise them. Moisturising helps soften, hydrate the skin and protects it from cracking. Rub a generous portion on your feet and massage well. Regular foot massages also help keep nerve endings stimulated, improve blood circulation and nourish the skin and foot muscles!

    Step 5:

    Now your nails are ready to get decorated. Paint them with a colour of your choice. Always apply a base coat. Wait for it to dry and then apply a coat of nail polish. Let it dry completely before you apply the next coat. This will make your nail polish last longer. You can also jazz your feet up with a pretty anklet or toe rings!
    read more
    0
    The clock is ticking and signalling the end of a year. But you just finished Christmas shopping and partying that has left you parched and goggly-eyed the next day. Suddenly New Year's Eve is this weekend. The frenzy of the past few weeks and general excitement of the season has taken its toll on you.
    You are just a little shy of fitting into that dress perfectly and look just a little too haggard to find yourself an interesting date. So we have made your life a little easier by providing some last minute guidelines for you to get in shape, spruce your wardrobe and of course, grab a date.

    FOOTLOOSE NO MORE Don't worry if you still haven't found a date and your friends have already hooked up for New Year's Eve. While not having a date isn't what you would call a catastrophe, it is nice to not be the odd one out. If you're scrambling for a last minute partner for the evening, here are a few tricks:

    GET FIXED UP BY A FRIEND Ask your friends to hook you up. If you have friends with charitable spirit and are the type who want to spread the good cheer, they will introduce you to a couple of potential dates. Your goal is simply to have a fun date for New Year's Eve, so approach the idea with an open mind.

    MINGLE The best way to meet new people is to divert from the usual places where you have been hanging out at. Explore places you have never been before, such as an art gallery at a location away from your home, a new book store, restaurants, pubs and discotheques. Also meet a different set of friends, who will hopefully be there with their single friends and introduce them to you. Dress spiffy, be confident and enjoy the high of meeting new people.

    SOCIAL NETWORKING While your social networking page may boast of 500-odd friends, it's time to connect with someone you may not have been in touch with for a while or on a regular basis. Poke them, send a message, chat with them or drop in a light phone call just to connect. The first message should never suggest that you're fishing for a date, but build up to it nicely and you just may have one. USE ICEBREAKERS When you meet someone new at a coffee shop, book store, a mall or a pub, try talking your way through it by using causal one liners. For instance, you could start a conversation at a book store by asking someone "What book is that?" If you happen to have knowledge about the book, you can get lucky easily. If nothing comes to your mind, you could simply ask for the time. At a pub, you could say, "Your cocktail looks interesting" and then try to keep the conversation going. Often it isn't as tough as it looks and it's a question of being able to talk your way into charming someone. Don't come on too strong, approach the person with respect and don't harbour notions about getting laid. There are enough single people in the city and if you can solely focus on having an enjoyable evening, your date is waiting for you.

    TONE DOWN Unbalanced diet, pollution and environmental changes, bad sleeping habits and alcohol, all add up to increasing toxin levels in the body leading to skin eruptions, water retention (edema), nausea, dizziness and dullness. Our expert, nutritionist Nupur Krishnan, shares her last minute tips to get fit and glowing, just in time. A QUICK FIX DETOX PLAN

    Your detox plan should contain 70 per cent liquids and 30 per cent solids. Include foods that offer enough phyto-chemicals and traditional nutrients and enzymes. For instance, pineapple contains bromelain, an enzyme that helps in digestion; papaya contains papain, a great colon cleanser; broccoli helps control blood pressure; and onion and garlic contain sulphur compounds that strengthen the process of detox.

    Add more fruits to your breakfast cereal and lettuce, cucumber, tomato, spinach, onion to sandwiches. Have soups and salads rich in fresh fruits and vegetables.

    Combine your detox with the right exercise such as walking, jogging, skipping, dancing and swimming. As you sweat and breathe heavily, it facilitates the expulsion of toxins through skin and lungs.

    Hydrate your body. Drink lots of water in the form of fresh seasonal fruit juices such as watermelon, strawberries, cucumber and orange.

    Stay way from sodium (salt) as much as possible. It is the key culprit in water retention. Herbal and green teas work wonders for a detox diet.

    Those under medical supervision, elderly people, pregnant and lactating women and people with thyroid problems should consult their doctor before taking on a detox diet. LOSE THE KILOS Here are a few basics to help you shed your weight pronto:

    Stay off white carbs as much as possible. That includes white bread, rice, pasta etc.

    Drink at least four litres of water during the day.

    Post meals, stay away from caffeine. However, have a cup of milky coffee an hour before gym to boost your body into working harder.

    Do any cardio-related exercise that can amp up your heart rate and burn calories. Consider spinning, cardio kickboxing or running and jogging with free weights to tone up the body.

    Sleep a minimum of seven hours at night to let your body regain and restore its systems. You'll be amazed at the effect it has on your strength.

    Sex in the woman-on-top position is also a great calorie buster, if you have the dedication for it. PREVENT BLOATING

    Avoid aerated and soft drinks at all costs. Alcohol and coffee can also cause intestinal irritation and swelling. Water remains your best bet when thirsty.

    Certain vegetables such as cabbage, kidney beans and peppers are top examples of healthy foods that contain difficult-todigest carbohydrates, which can cause gas. Limit servings to a half cup at a time.

    High fat and fried food takes a longer time to digest, making you feel bloated and heavy. Try nuts, seeds, fish instead.

    Avoid chewing gum - it promotes intake of air into the digestive tract.

    Lactose intolerance can also cause bloating.

    read more

    Friday, 30 December 2011

    0

    Draw polka dots, hearts on your nails

  • Friday, 30 December 2011
  • Ramit Hooda
  • Pammy Kaul of Scratch Nail Bar, Greater Kailash, New Delhi, shares her ideas on decorating your nails best suited for a New Year's party.

    - Apply some
    of the razzle dazzle designs to your nails. Use rich colour palette to fuse the different images and shades into a unique nail design.

    - Magnetic and crackle nail polishes are the latest inventions when it comes to lacquers and they can definitely be a great aid to an easy yet spectacular manicure. The special effect nail polishes are super easy to use and come in a variety of gorgeous hues that can compliment your style at any event.

    - Use crackle nail polish, a special formula that shatters as it dries, leaving a stylish crackle effect. To get the best out of your designs, apply a strong, rich pigmented nail varnish as the base and after the layer is dry, top with a contrasting colour of crackle nail polish.

    - For a smoother look, opt for glow-in-the-dark base nail polish which will amazingly reveal itself under the shatter effect of the crackle varnish.

    - Simple nail polish looks amazing too and if you're all about simplicity, you can use a bold coloured nail polish and create a stylish Halloween-inspired nail art design such as a black cat, spider web and pumpkins to name a few by stamping or using acrylic paint or stickers.

    - Use orange and black tones this season as they are definitely hot, and let your imagination run wild while you paint them. From cool animal prints to cool jack-o'lanterns or glitter details, anything goes, so choose your favorites. Create your nail art design using Konad stamps, nail art stickers or prove your skills and use nail art brushes to make your nails a center of attention.

    - Cool colours, glitter and graphic patterns will surely make your nails scream for attention. Use contrasting hues and let your nails sparkle.

    - Use scissors to cut out the desired pattern and glue specially designed to apply other accessories including lace to your perfectly polished and well-conditioned nails. Real lace works magic on your nail art, therefore if you feel like adopting this version of the trend make sure you practice a lot until you've mastered the skill of perfect application.

    - Use bows, hearts as well as dots and floral nail prints to play up your girly allure and add a modern vibe to your manicure.

    - Polka dots, stripes and other funny patterns will offer you the opportunity to practice nail painting. Pick the perfect nail polish formula that guarantees a long-lasting hold on your manicure.

    read more

    Thursday, 29 December 2011

    0

    Get rid of under-eye dark circles

  • Thursday, 29 December 2011
  • Ramit Hooda
  • If you thought that those stubborn, unpleasant dark circles under your eye are a result of lack of sleep, think again. You may be catching up on your daily quota of beauty sleep, but are you still suffering from dark circles? Not many people know that apart from their lifestyle habits, the problem behind getting dark circles is also organic.
    The bruised appearance that develops under our eyes is often a result of thinning skin in the eye area, allergies, or in some cases, it is heredity. But some homemade natural remedies can help us reduce them.

    One of the best home remedies to fight dark circles is using cucumber slices on your eyes.

    Applying cool cucumber slices on your eyes can be soothing and reduces puffiness and prevent skin discolouration. Use them for five to ten minutes and see a marked improvement in your under-eye area.

    Another effective homemade remedy would be using tea bags on your eyes. Tea bags contain caffeine and anti-oxidants, that help repair damaged skin. Take used tea bags, cool them, squeeze them and keep them on your eyes for 10 minutes.

    Raw potatoes also help in reducing dark circles. Cool a potato in the refrigerator and cut it into very thin slices. Keep applying them 2-3 times a day for around 20 minutes.

    Almond oil is considered as an effective remedy to remove dark circles. Massaging the area with almond oil before going to bed also diminishes dark circles.
    read more
    0

    Winter care tips for your hands

  • Ramit Hooda
  • When winter sets in, your hands begin to show neglect and ageing sooner than most parts of the body. The skin on the back of the hands is thin and has few oil glands. The hands also come in contact with soaps and detergents daily, when we perform our washing chores. These play havoc on the skin, making it rough and dry. This is more so in winter, when the skin loses moisture to the atmosphere.

    Protect your hands by wearing rubber gloves for your washing chores.

    Surgical gloves are easily available at a chemist store. Apply a cream after your washing tasks, working it into the skin. This takes only a few minutes of your time. You should also massage cream on the nails and the skin around the nails too. Massage the hands at night with a good nourishing cream. Apply the cream on the back of the hand. This is the area that is prone to early wrinkling. Work down each finger, starting from the tip. Use tiny circular movements on the joints of the fingers. Massage the back of the hand, using strokes moving from the fingers towards the wrist.

    Bath time is appropriate to pamper the hands and supply them with the oils and moisture they need. In fact, applying body lotions and creams soon after bathing, while the skin is still damp, helps to seal in moisture. Before your bath, apply oil on the hands and massage it into the skin. This helps to soften the skin. Sesame seed (til) oil can be used, or you can use olive oil or pure almond oil. Warm the oil before use. I advise the use of a lemon-turmeric cream as a pre-bath treatment. It not only helps to soften the skin, but also lightens skin colour and removes tan over a period of time. It also protects the hands from the drying effects of soap and chlorinated water.

    Turmeric has antiseptic properties too and thus provides protection from infections. A traditional home pre-bath treatment is to mix "besan" (gram flour) with a little milk or curd and a pinch of "haldi" (turmeric) into a paste. Apply the paste on the hands. After 20 minutes, dampen with water and rub the paste gently on the skin and wash it off while bathing. You will not need to apply soap, as this cleanses very well.

    For bathing, soap-free shower gels are better in winter. Or, you can use a mild glycerin soap. For extreme dryness, it is better to avoid soap. Oil massage and wiping with a moist towel can help to cleanse the skin adequately.

    For dry and dark hands, take 2 tablespoons sunflower oil, 2 tablespoons lemon juice and 3 tablespoon coarse sugar. Mix together till it becomes a paste. Apply and rub into hands. Wash off after 15 minutes. You can do this three times a week.

    For dryness of the hands, add one teaspoon pure glycerin to 50 ml rose water. Apply on the hands and leave on for half an hour. Then, wash it off with plain water. Adding a little lemon juice before application will help to lighten skin colour.

    To soften the skin and lighten skin colour of hands, you can also take some sugar in your palm and add lemon juice. Rub this on the back of the hands and wash off.

    Put a cupful of warm milk in a bowl. Soak your hands in it for five minutes to strengthen nails and soften the skin.

    Take fresh orange peels, pierce them with a fork. Rub the peels on the hands to brighten the skin.

    For very dry hands and nails, mix together one tablespoon almond oil, one tablespoon sesame seed (til) oil, one teaspoon wheatgerm oil. Apply daily and massage it into the skin. Massage around the nails too, in order to soften the cuticles.

    read more
    0

    Tips for smooth and sexy skin

  • Ramit Hooda
  • The importance of skincare, however, cannot be overlooked, if you want all round self confidence which adds to looking sexy. As people get older their skin tends to lose the suppleness, firmness, vitality, and glow. Bring that sexy young skin back with these skin care tips.

    1. Skin Creams- There are thousands of skin creams in the market. Some are very effective if used properly. The problem with most of these special skin creams is that once you stop using them the improvements revert. Look for skin creams that include alpha hydroxy acids, kinetin, coenzyme 10, or antioxidants. Researchers found these ingredients bring rapid results and the sexy glow back to dull dry skin.

    2. Pay close attention - Observe your skin for any imperfections. If there are acne, pimples or irregular patches, visit your dermatologist to determine the root cause of your problem. It may be the food you eat, or your lack of sleep. It can also be hormonal. Before you can even think of smearing your face with irritating creams, determine the cause of your skin problem and eradicate it. Eliminating the root problem will solve your problem once and for all. In serious, incurable skin conditions, plastic surgery may be an option.

    3. Personal hygiene is important - Sexy skin is clean skin. Washing your face before going to bed is one routine facial skin care that you should do. This simple personal hygiene will eliminate make-up, dirt, dust and oil on your skin and face. Going to bed with the dirt, oil and grime still on your face will allow them to lodge deeply into your skin pores causing blackheads, whiteheads and pimples. Your skin would not be able to breathe too because oil and dirt has clogged its pathway to fresh air.

    4. Try cutting down on alcohol - Alcohol contains acetaldehyde, which is its active component. Acetaldehyde has the property to keratinize cells too. It can cause irreversible liver cirrhosis. If this substance can do that to the liver then how much can it do to your skin? Alcohol also causes malnutrition, because it prevents the proper re-absorption of essential nutrients, which are vital to health.

    5. Feed you skin from the inside - Nutrition, good fats, eating healthy and exercising are of course basics you need to follow for healthy, sexy, glowing skin. Read more tips on great skin with emphasis on nutrition.
    read more

    Wednesday, 28 December 2011

    0

    Are perfume choices based on genes?

  • Wednesday, 28 December 2011
  • Ramit Hooda
  • The difference is in your genes, a new study suggests. Scientists asked people to rate their preference for scents commonly found in perfumes, and then tested for variations in the participants' genes. As it turns out, which version of a gene someone had was correlated with which smells they liked best.

    August Hammerli, researcher at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Zurich, said "Most people judge different perfumes in terms of their packaging and marketing, but our idea was to determine what perfume scents a person likes based on their genotype."
    read more
    0

    Remedies for brittle nails

  • Ramit Hooda

  • To make brittle nails soft, apply moisturising cream over your fingers and nails and wear cotton gloves on your hands before going to sleep. This will help keep your nails moisturised and soft.

    Soak your finger in luke warm salt water for sometime. Then wipe them clean and apply a good moisturising cream. Also, another remedy includes using tea tree oil on finger nails.

    Avoid using acetone on a regular basis because they tend to strip off fingernails of moisture, thus making them dry. And if you do have to use acetone, make sure you use a good quality one.

    Brittle nails are also caused due to lack of vitamins and minerals in one's diet. Intake of the mineral zinc is beneficial in treating brittle nails. Also, make sure you diet comprising of vitamins A, E and minerals like calcium and iron too.

    Another remedy is to take a cotton ball immersed in olive or castor oil and gently swab it on your brittle fingernails.

    read more
    0

    Get that flawless complexion

  • Ramit Hooda
  • A spotless cream-and-peaches complexion is what we all would love to have but pigmentation, sun spots and freckles can mar it. Cosmetic physician Dr Jamuna Pai explains, "Our skin gets its pigment from melanin that is made by the body and determines the colour of your skin, hair and eyes. An over-production of melanin shows up as brown patches and spots."

    The causes Dr Rashmi Shetty, cosmetic physician says hyper-pigmentation is caused by both intrinsic and extrinsic factors. She says, "The intrinsic cause stems from imbalances in the hormone levels and is very difficult to treat."

    The external factors include excessive sun exposure, wounds, skin treatments and procedures that might not suit one's skin and anything that stimulates the increased production of melanin (substance that gives skin and hair its colour).

    Dr V L Shyam, MD in ayurveda says, "Every minute movement inside a cell is governed by vata and it plays a role even in the migration and accumulation of the melanin pigment. Bhrajaka Pitta governs the colour and complexion of the body and so hyper and hypo pigmentation can happen due to an imbalance of both the vata and the pitta."

    The main reasons for hyper-pigmentation are:
    Sun damage - Brown spots or dark patches appear from too much melanin being made and coming to the skin surface as a protective mechanism.
    Hormonal changes - Pregnancy, menopause and sometimes oral contraceptive pills can cause pigmentation.
    Injury PIH (post inflammatory hyper-pigmentation) - The body's response to injury is inflammation which triggers melanin production and the result are brown spots and patches. Some examples of PIH are acne scars, insect bites, cuts or abrasion, post laser treatments, post peels, fixed drug reaction.

    Treat it
    One can opt for topical applications, skin peels or non ablative treatments, but all should be under medical supervision and strict sun protection say experts. Suggests senior cosmetic surgeon Dr Mohan Thomas, "Daily skin cleansing is essential so, wash your face at least twice a day using oil and alcohol-free formulas. Exfoliate three times per week; apply the exfoliator in circular motions to all affected areas, normally the nose, forehead and chin. The exfoliation encourages a newer, smoother skin surface by helping to unclog pores, prevent further breakouts and diminish blemishes and pigmentation spots."

    Topical creams
    Dr Pai says, "Some very good and safe lightening agents are Vitamin C, Retin A, etc. These exfoliating agents, when used regularly exfoliates dead cells and speeds up the growth of new skin thereby lessening the pigmented patches."

    Skin peels
    Made from naturally occurring acids found in fruits and other foods, alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) peels are popular and so are lactic acid ones from sour milk, citric acid and glycolic acid, from sugar cane. Trichloracetic acid (TCA) peels and Beta-hydroxy peels(BHA) are also used.

    Machine treatments
    Microdermabra-sion, high-intensity pulsed light therapy and laser resurfacing are the machine treatments that help.

    Ayurveda
    Dr Shyam says, "We first find out which energy is in imbalance - the vata or the pitta. And then the treatment begins by balancing them both." He advises drinking plenty of water, having fruits, legumes, eggs, garlic and onion. Dr Shyam adds, "Manjishta or (rubia cordisolia) when taken internally or externally helps combat pigmentation."

    Ayurveda Recipes
    Treat pigmentation on your face
    A mixture of lemon juice and honey can be applied on the face. This acts like a bleach. Apply a mixture of yoghurt, honey and cucumber juice in equal proportions and leave on for 15-20 minutes.

    For lips
    A simple remedy for this is to apply ghee or castor oil on lips. Both of these elements balanced the vata and the pitta. Another recipe that works is a mixture of almond oil with glycerine, honey and rose water.

    For underarm pigmentation
    This happens due to allergic reactions and applying a paste of mint (pudina) leaves on the areas for ten minutes will help.

    Under-eye pigmentation
    This area of the face has the most delicate skin. You can apply tomato juice and a pinch of turmeric powder. Apply slices of cucumber and potato and leave it on for 15 to 20 minutes.

    (Inputs by Dr V L Shyam, MD in Ayurveda)

    Simple tips to be followed daily
    - Avoid exposure to direct sunlight between 9am-4pm.
    - Regardless of the SPF (sun protection factor) apply generous amounts of sunscreen at an interval of three to four hours.
    - Wear sunglasess, broad rimmed hats and loose clothes.
    - Use light coloured clothes that deflect the rays of the sun in summer.
    - Take nutritional supplements of Vitamin C and anti-oxidants.
    - Hydrate yourself by drinking at least two to three litres of water daily. A dehydrated skin is more prone to hyper-pigmentation.
    - Avoid colour cosmetics like 'blush-ons' and fragrances like lavender, as these absorb UV rays and can cause hyper-pigmentation.
    - Balance social habits, especially smoking, as that increases the free-radical content and thus further adds to the pigmentation.
    - Preserve your biological rhythm by following a healthy life-style which should includes exercise in some form, adequate hours of sleep in a regular pattern.

    (Inputs by Dr Jamuna Pai, Cosmetic physician)

    Hide them with makeup!
    If the pigmentation mark is deep and is like a birthmark then it can be covered by concealer. There are foundations available in around nine to ten shades in popular brands which not only cover blemishes but also have a skin-lightening effect. Some brands have mineral powders, a light dusting of which help in hiding blemishes. There are also concealers available in four to five shades that are great for complete coverage of marks and are also good for dermalogical
    read more
    0

    6 Ways to look and feel younger!

  • Ramit Hooda

  • Save your skin
    As you age, the first most obvious sign is the appearance of wrinkles. With age and improper beauty regime, our skin gets dry and rough which leads to wrinkles. One of the noticeable signs of ageing is the visibility of thin lines around our eyes, which are called crow's feet.

    To add to the misery, there can be sun damage in the form of discolouration. So follow the 3-step beauty routine of scrubbing, toning, moisturizing and later slathering on plenty of sunscreen. And if wrinkles are bothering you a bit too much, botox isn't a bad option either. Olive oil also works wonders in banishing wrinkles.

    Check your weight and exercise
    To beat age related weight gain, experts say one must aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate activity a day. The form could be anything - yoga, aerobics, swimming, pilates, etc. Leena Mogre, fitness expert, says, "As you cross 30, a good mix of exercise is important. If you feel that your gut is expanding and your chest is softening, it's probably because you're not lifting weights."

    The key to reaping the benefits of physical activity is sticking with it, so choose any exercise you enjoy. Do not forget facial exercises to firm your facial muscles.

    Plan a plant based diet
    Your diet should have a good mix of green vegetables, fruits, whole grains and beans. "You should try to choose foods that represent a rainbow of colours, such as spinach, corn, tomatoes, bell pepper, strawberries, blueberry and grapes. Your food plate should have 75 per cent plant based food and rest should be lower fat sources of protein such as eggs, fish or meat. This diet helps you fight evils of ageing such as osteoporosis, diabetes and heart disease," says dietician Aishwarya Rajan.

    Stress on calcium
    Getting enough calcium as well as vitamin D help prevent osteoporosis which is the leading cause of bone fractures in women. Especially if you have crossed the age of 50, a daily dose of 1200 mg of calcium is necessary. Good sources of calcium include low-fat dairy products, calcium-fortified soymilk, orange juice, and fish with edible bones (like canned salmon or sardines). You can talk to your doctor to know if you need additional supplements.

    Drink in moderation
    Recent reports show that drinking moderate amounts of alcohol can protect against heart disease. Consuming alcoholic beverages can interfere with the effectiveness of certain medications. It also may increase the risk for some cancers. If you decide to drink, limit alcoholic beverages to not more than one drink a day.

    Sleep enough
    Sleep is vital to the proper functioning of our body. While some of us may sleep for barely 5-6 hours at night, others maybe sound asleep for as much as 9-10 hours. But the average amount of sleep required is 7-8 hours. Instead of battling sleep in the daytime, take short power naps of 10-15 minutes as they too will make you feel rested.
    read more

    Tuesday, 27 December 2011

    0

    Winter makes women look aged

  • Tuesday, 27 December 2011
  • Ramit Hooda
  • The eyes of 5,000 women aged between 27 and 60 were studied throughout the seasons by scientists, who found winter aged women's looks by an average four years and eight months.

    A lack of sunlight means paler skin, emphasising bags under the eyes and the problem is made worse by a higher level of fatigue in the winter due to a lower amount of Vitamin D, generated by the body in sunlight, and subsequently less serotonin, the body's "feel good chemical".

    The results are almost as bad for men, said the study, carried out at AMA Laboratories in New York for Adonia Organics. It found 82 percent of women suffered from dark circles and puffy eyes in the winter as opposed to just 38 percent in the summer.

    "More science is coming out linking the lack of Vitamin D and K as one of the causes that plagues us with dark circles and puffy eyes, especially as it relates to fatigue and immune related issues. Once you have them, it is usually difficult to reverse," the Daily Express quoted Mark Binette, anti-ageing expert as saying.

    "Lacking in Vitamins D and K has a considerable negative effect on the appearance of dark circles and puffy eyes," he said.

    Dark circles are one of the most common skin problems, and are often caused by tiny capillaries that leak blood beneath the surface of the skin. As this blood starts to oxidise, it turns an ugly dark blue colour similar to a bruise.

    The thin skin under the eyes allows fluid to build up. This becomes more obvious in winter as skin becomes more transparent.

    In the summer, dark circles are easier to hide as people suffer less from fatigue and most people's skin becomes lightly tanned.

    Additionally, during the summer, we experience higher serotonin levels when the skin is exposed to sunlight.

    read more
    0

    Home remedies for cracked heels

  • Ramit Hooda
  • Like the rest of your body, you need to give your feet proper care and attention too. Here are a few home remedies that will help you keep your heels soft and supple in winter.

    - Keep your skin hydrated. Drink lots of water.

    - Wash your feet carefully, every time you come from outside.
    - Exfoliate periodically. Use a foot scrubber to scrub the dead skin and brush away the dead skin with a small brush meant for feet. Rubbing a pumice stone is also helpful in clearing the dead skin.
    - Once you have cleaned your feet, apply a foot cream or petroleum jelly.
    - Once you are done applying the cream, wear cotton socks while you sleep, so that the skin absorbs the moisture and the cracks of the heels heal faster.
    - Another way to heel cracked heels is melting paraffin wax and mixing it with a little coconut oil and applying this mixture on your heels before going to bed. Wash it off in the morning. This will also help in reducing the pain.
    - Try walking on the grass barefoot early every morning. This exercise rejuvenates the feet and improves the eyesight.
    - Always remember to wear shoes that you are comfortable in. Avoid wearing tight shoes or high heels if your heels are hurting.

    read more
    0

    Hangover beauty dos and don’ts

  • Ramit Hooda
  • True, for some hangovers are the best after a night's drinking and having fun but for most people hangovers are their worst enemy. The pounding headache and the make-up smeared across your face can leave you looking unattractive the next morning. Follow the simple hangover beauty dos and don'ts to relieve you of the stress the next morning.

    Prevention is the best cure
    If you know that you are going to be out boozing, take some precaution. Before leaving, place a large glass of water and a high dose of multi-vitamin tablets near your bed. Water will help you if you are dehydrated and the vitamins will help you beat the alcohol off your system.

    Drink healthy
    Have a glass of fat free milk the next morning. The milk will help your body by providing protein, moisture and calcium which gets depleted with alcohol. Drink a cup of green tea to help your body fight the lowered resistance that comes with drinking.

    Liven up your eyes
    Sleep deprivation together with booze is a never winning combination. To get rid of the inevitable under eye dark circles the next morning, place cucumbers on your eyes for some time. Try and apply a toning gel with vitamin K to help restore the firmness and the elasticity around your eyes.

    Hydrate yourself
    Water is probably one of the only elements that helps fight hangovers the best. Hydrate yourself and your skin will not lose out on the moisture and you shall keep glowing even after a wild night party.

    Fake it with make-up
    When nothing works, your last resort is make-up. Go smoky on the eyes, to hide the puffy bags and nude on the lips which will lend lustre to them. Keep your mane open or tie it up in a ponytail to get the fresh look.
    read more

    Monday, 26 December 2011

    0

    Tomato for clear skin

  • Monday, 26 December 2011
  • Ramit Hooda
  • Not only do tomatoes taste great but they also keep the skin healthy. It is necessary to consume tomatoes as they have lycopene, which is an antioxidant and hence works as a sunscreen from within. These antioxidants make tomato an anti-aging product as they help in fighting cellular damage and reddening of skin.
    It is recommended to have at least 16 milligrams of lycopene per day as they reduce the number of free radicals in the body and also help to retain the moisture in people who are used to sitting in air-conditioned environs. You don't need to spend your hard-earned money on expensive cosmetic treatments if you follow these simple steps to get healthy-looking skin:

    Big pores? Shrink Them
    Big pores provide easy access to dirt and grime thus increasing the chances of infecting the pore. Take a tablespoon of fresh tomato juice. Add two to four drops of fresh lime juice to this. Use a cotton ball to apply this mixture on your face. Massage it in circular motions. Leave it on for about 15 minutes and then wash off with cool water. Regular application will shrink pores greatly.

    Acne healing
    The acidity in tomatoes helps in reducing and clearing up your acne. Vitamin A and vitamin C are commonly found in a lot of acne medicines and tomatoes are rich in vitamin A, vitamin C and vitamin K. If you have mild acne, cut a tomato in half and apply the inside on your face. For severe acne mash a fresh tomato and use the pulp as a pack on the face. Leave it on for an hour. Rinse it off and moisturise. Do this on a regular basis or as many times as you can. Your acne is bound to dry off soon.

    Astringent
    If you have oily skin and struggle to keep your face from shining like a fried papad, tomato is the solution to your agony. Crush a fresh tomato and strain it. Make a little cucumber juice and add it to the tomato juice. Apply this juice with a cotton ball daily to control excessive oiliness and acne.

    Good to eat, great to clean
    A tomato and avocado mask works wonders on combination skin. This is because tomato works as an astringent as well as a blackhead and oil-reducing agent while avocados have an antiseptic and moisturising effect. A pack of mashed tomatoes and avocados help in soothing and cleansing combination skin (oily and dry), as they are rich in vitamin A, C and E. Apply this pack and wash off after 20 o 30 minutes with lukewarm water.

    Burns no more
    Summer is fast approaching and with harsh summer comes burnt, inflamed skin. A lot of people's skin gets sunburnt, raw and itchy due to exposure to the sun. Crush half a tomato and mix it with two tablespoons of plain yogurt. Apply this concoction on face, neck, hands and feet. Wash it off after 20 minutes. Tomato cools the skin and neutralises the surface while yogurt gives it a much needed protein boost while leaving it soft and supple.

    Glowing skin
    Mix honey with tomato juice until you get a thick paste. Apply this mixture and wash off after 15 minutes for smooth and glowing skin.
    read more
    Related Posts Plugin for WordPress, Blogger...

    Subscribe