Daily Exercise Suggestions

Walk 10 Minutes a Day and Increase Your Fitness Level Old thinking was to work out in a sweat-filled gym for hours a day. No pain, no gain. New studies show that even short bouts of activity can increase your fitness level, especially if you're new at working out.

Park and Walk
Whenever you have an errand, park your car as far away as you can handle and walk to the store. At the mall, park at the farthest end and walk the length of the mall. Use every opportunity to walk. At the end of the day, it all adds up to better fitness.

Crunch in Bed
Before you even get out of bed in the morning, do 10 stomach crunches while lying flat on your mattress. Increase daily by one until you get up to 100. Think you'll never get there? Try it. You may eventually have to set your clock to wake up 15 minutes earlier, a small price to pay for a flatter stomach.

Pills That Zap Fat:

Last Spring, the FDA approved the use of Orlistat, a lipase inhibitor, for weight-loss management. The 120-mg. capsule works by blocking the body's absorption of dietary fats. For example, if you down a bag of greasy potato chips followed by an Orlistat pill, the body will absorb only some of the fat that it normally would, therefore saving calories and fat. If you take the pill within an hour after eating a fatty meal, you are going to prevent the body from packing on the pounds.

At first, this sounded like the magic pill for which we'd all been waiting. Wow! Eat what you want but gulp down three pills a day and don't gain a pound. What a way to lose those unwanted 10 or 20 pounds, especially now in the New Millennium.

Then we discovered the real truth. While this pill is definitely a breakthrough in the weight-loss field, it is recommended for morbidly obese people. It can be obtained only by prescription. Doctors prescribe it primarily for people who have health problems related to their obesity and cannot function normally. For instance, a 300-pound man who can't walk up a set of steps without getting winded; a 250-pound woman who cannot reach down to tie her shoes or hug her child; a person whose high-blood pressure cannot be controlled by other medication and those with family histories of heart disease and stroke who cannot otherwise lose weight.

Maybe you could talk your doctor into it for losing those 20 or 30 pounds if your health-related reasons are justified. You still must exercise and follow a low-fat, low calorie diet while taking the medication. The possible side effects are: diarrhea, oily bowel movements, gas, discharge, urgency and increased number of bowel movements. Orlistat is not recommended for people with food-absorption problems, diabetes or for pregnant or lactating women and for use with certain other medications.

Essential Health Tips

1. Move More
Make it a daily challenge to find ways to move your body. Climb stairs if given a choice between that and escalators or elevators. Walk your dog; chase your kids; toss balls with friends, mow the lawn. Anything that moves your limbs is not only a fitness tool, it's a stress buster. Think 'move' in small increments of time. It doesn't have to be an hour in the gym or a 45-minute aerobic dance class or tai chi or kickboxing. But that's great when you're up to it. Meanwhile, move more. Thought for the day: Cha, Cha, Cha…. Then do it!

2. Cut Fat
Avoid the obvious such as fried foods, burgers and other fatty meats (i.e. pork, bacon, ham, salami, ribs and sausage). Dairy products such as cheese, cottage cheese, milk and cream should be eaten in low fat versions. Nuts and sandwich meats, mayonnaise, margarine, butter and sauces should be eaten in limited amounts. Most are available in lower fat versions such as substitute butter, fat free cheeses and mayonnaise. Thought for the day: Lean, mean, fat-burning machine…. Then be one!

3. Quit Smoking
The jury is definitely in on this verdict. Ever since 1960 when the Surgeon General announced that smoking was harmful to your health, Americans have been reducing their use of tobacco products that kill. Just recently, we've seen a surge in smoking in adolescents and teens. Could it be the Hollywood influence? It seems the stars in every movie of late smoke cigarettes. Beware. Warn your children of the false romance or 'tough guy' stance of Hollywood smokers. Thought for the day: Give up just one cigarette…. the next one.

4. Reduce Stress
Easier said than done, stress busters come in many forms. Some techniques recommended by experts are to think positive thoughts. Spend 30 minutes a day doing something you like. (i.e.,Soak in a hot tub; walk on the beach or in a park; read a good book; visit a friend; play with your dog; listen to soothing music; watch a funny movie. Get a massage, a facial or a haircut. Meditate. Count to ten before losing your temper or getting aggravated. Avoid difficult people when possible. Thought for the day: When seeing red, think pink clouds….then float on them.

5. Protect Yourself from Pollution
If you can't live in a smog-free environment, at least avoid smoke-filled rooms, high traffic areas, breathing in highway fumes and exercising near busy thoroughfares. Exercise outside when the smog rating is low. Exercise indoors in air conditioning when air quality is good. Plant lots of shrubbery in your yard. It's a good pollution and dirt from the street deterrent. Thought for the day: 'Smoke gets in your eyes'…and your mouth, and your nose and your lungs as do pollutants….hum the tune daily.

6. Wear Your Seat Belt
Statistics show that seat belts add to longevity and help alleviate potential injuries in car crashes. Thought for the day: Buckle down and buckle up.

7. Floss Your Teeth
Recent studies make a direct connection between longevity and teeth flossing. Nobody knows exactly why. Perhaps it's because people who floss tend to be more health conscious than people who don't? Thought for the day: Floss and be your body's boss.

8. Avoid Excessive Drinking
While recent studies show a glass of wine or one drink a day (two for men) can help protect against heart disease, more than that can cause other health problems such as liver and kidney disease and cancer. Thought for the day: A jug of wine should last a long time.

9. Keep a Positive Mental Outlook
There's a definitive connection between living well and healthfully and having a cheerful outlook on life. Thought for the day: You can't be unhappy when you're smiling or singing.

10. Choose Your Parents Well
The link between genetics and health is a powerful one. But just because one or both of your parents died young in ill health doesn't mean you cannot counteract the genetic pool handed you. Thought for the day: Follow these basic tips for healthy living and you can better control your own destiny.

Master The Basics

The best thing you can do for your skin is to to take care of it. Treat it like the finest piece of silk you own. We'll show you how.

To prepare a smooth canvas for your makeup, always start off with clean, moisturized skin. You'll find that your makeup glides on and blends more easily.

1. Keep your skin free of buildup by using a gentle cleanser in the morning and at night. When cleansing your face, do so gently in upward motion stokes - do not tug, pull or scrub too hard to prevent irritation.

2. Freshen up your skin with a toner containing ingredients that suit your skin type.

3. Indulge your skin and keep it hydrated with a moisturizer that is compatible with your skin type. Make sure your daytime moisturizer contains SPF to protect your skin from the sun's harmful rays.

4. Treat yourself to an at-home-facial 2 to 3 times a week. Use a mild cleanser, then exfoliate with a gentle scrub that contains exfoliants that are round and non-abrasive.

5. Apply a facial mask after exfoliating. Rinse off thoroughly and get a good night's sleep!

Tip: Even when you're steering clear of the sun, or it appears to be a cloudy day, always be sure your makeup foundation or moisturizer contains SPF 15 or higher.

Secret To A Natural, Flawless Look

Ever wonder how to get that natural flawless-looking skin? Here we share our secret to a dewy, flawless complexion.

1. Apply foundation to your cheeks, forehead, and chin using a foundation brush, sponge, or clean fingertips. Blend the foundation all the way to your natural hairline with long, light strokes.

2. Continue blending over the jawline and onto your neck to achieve a natural, seamless look. Check your face and neck in natural light to make sure the foundation is completely blended in all areas.

3. If under-eye circles or red spots remain, do not add more foundation; it can look heavy and cakey. Instead, try a concealer.

Tip: Choose the shade of your foundation carefully. When testing out shades, pick one that matches the tone of your jawline exactly. It helps to use a mirror outdoors to see how shades look in natural light.

Tip: Begin by applying a small amount of foundation then increase amount to achieve the degree of coverage that suits your skin.

Tip: For daytime, mix your foundation with a light SPF moisturizer before applying for a smoother, more sheer application.

Hide Imperfections

A little concealer goes a long way! We have the tricks to hide those unsightly imperfections. Easy does it!

Concealer is more dense than foundation, allowing fuller coverage of trouble spots and hyperpigmentation (red areas). It can be used over foundation or on it own, and has greater staying power. Remember, a little goes a long way!

1. Since the skin under your eyes is more transparent, it tends to look dark, especially at the inner corner near the bridge of the nose. To even out the tone, concealer is a must. Using liquid concealer, gently pat over dark under-eye circles (don't sweep it across the entire area), then blend with your ring finger.

2. To cover trouble spots and imperfections, apply a thicker cream concealer onto the blemish or flaw. Then lightly press with a makeup sponge.

Tip: Choose the shade of your concealer carefully. When testing out shades, pick one that matches your skin tone or one shade lighter. It helps to use a mirror outdoors to see how shades look on your skin in natural light.

Tip: Prepare your skin with a light SPF moisturizer before applying concealer for a smoother application.

All-Day, Flawless Finish

Give your face a velvety, natural finish, and keep your makeup lasting longer! We'll share what we know about setting your flawless finish straight.

A light even dusting of loose powder sets foundation and concealer, giving your face a velvety, more natural finish. It also provides smooth blending for any eye makeup or blush to follow.

1. Dip a puff or powder brush in loose powder. Shake off excess to avoid uneven distribution, then apply powder over entire face and neck.

2. To maintain a flawless finish throughout the day, apply pressed powder using a sponge or clean powder brush.

Tip: Face powder can be used alone, over foundation or over your moisturizer for a natural, sheer, no-shine look.

Tip: For the closest color match, choose a powder shade that is 3 shades lighter than your foundation.

Tip: If you are over the age of 30, avoid powdering under the eyes as it can make fine lines and wrinkles appear more obvious.

Tip: Facial oil-blotting sheets help to remove excess oil and shine without disturbing your makeup. Carry them with you everywhere you go!

Massage Therapy: A Step By Step Guide

Arms And Hand Massage:

Our arms and hands are used constantly throughout the day, and are required for our greatest expressions of emotion- from angry outbursts to tender caresses.An arm and hand massage can release tension and relax us, improving our snese of well-being.

Arms:
Massage Steps:
1.Starting at the wrist, oil the arm and top of the shoulder, making contact with the whole of the arm.Sandwich the shoulder between both hands and glide hands outward and down the arm.
2.Lift the forearm with one hand.With the other, drain from the wrist up along the forearm.
3.Lift the whole of the arm and, keeping the upper arm at a right angle to the body, let the hand flop.Grasp the elbow with hands and squeeze downward along the upper arm toward the shoulder joint(rather like squeezing toothpaste).Place arm back at the side of the body.
4.Starting at the top of the arm squeeze gently between the hands, making a spreading motion with the flattened thumb.Continue down the arm to the wrist, pausing at the elbow to work into the joint, using friction strokes.
5.Using both hands, wring up the arm, starting at the wrist and working all the way up to the shoulder.
6.Stroke the arm from the shoulder down to the hand using light, feathering strokes.
7.Remain in position to finish the sequence by working on your partner's hand.

Massage Tip:

While working on the limbs, make sure they are as relaxed as possible.If you notice that your partner is "holding on" ask them gently to let the limb go.

Hands:
Massage Steps:
1.Sandwich your partners hand between your own for a few seconds.Using your thumbs, massage the palm of the hand.
2.Massage the back of the hand, working in between the bones to help release any tension.Do not press too hard.
3.Massage each ofthe fingers and the thumb in turn, squeezing, rotating, and pulling them gently.
4.Using light strokes, draw your hands down your partner's arm, down the hand, and off at the fingertips.This finishes the hand massage.
5.Move round to the opposite side of your partner.Now repeat every stage of the arm and hand sequence for this side of the body.

Massage Tip:

Find a comfortable position for working on your partners hand.You may find it best to rest the hand on your leg, if you are seated alongside.

Massage Therapy: A Step By Step Guide

Abdomen Massage:

The abdomen is the softest, least-protected area of the body and is, therefore, an area of great vulnerability for many people.Always work very gently and rhythmically in this area, only increasing the pressure once the recieve feels secure and relaxed.

Massage Steps:
1.Oil in large circles working around the navel in a clockwise direction, using both hands.
2.Continue circling the abdomen and begin to work a little more firmly using the fingertips to make small circles.
3.Place one hand either side of the body, on each hip, and wring up the body in a forward and backward motion.Then stroke up over the ribcage, over the breastbone and off at the shoulders.

Massage Tip:

Some people may not like you to touch their abdomen.When you reach this point in the sequence, you might like to first check with your partner that they fel comfortable with you massaging the stomach area.

Massage Therapy: A Step By Step Guide

Neck And Shoulder Massage:

For many people, the neck and shoulders are common areas of soreness and tension.Working at a desk or a computer all day helps to create such problems.To have this pain eased away can be a source of great pleasure.

Massage Steps:
1.Position yourself at your partners head, with them lying on their back.Oil the front of the body, starting with hands on their upper chest, then move down over the breastbone, out around the ribcage, and back up the sides of the body to the starting position.Place hands on the upper chest, fingers pointing toward each other and press down, gliding the hands out toward the top of the arm.
2.Cradle the head in one hand and turn it slightly toward the right.With the other hand, glide firmly out from the center of the chest to the top of the arm, back along the top of the shoulder, and up the back of the neck to the base of the skull.
3.Make little circles along the back of the neck to release tension, then continue down the side of the neck to the chest.Stroke firmly down the side of the neck and out along the top of the shoulder, stretching the neck muscles.
4.Turn the head back to the center with both hands supporting the head under the neck, and pull gently to stretch out the neck muscles.
5.Turn the head to the opposite side and repeat the sequence for the other shoulder.Return the head to the center and pull gently.Make small, overlapping, circular movements up the back of the neck to the skull and then stroke up the back of the head and off.Gently lower the head.

Massage Therapy: A Step By Step Guide

Neck And Shoulder Massage:

For many people, the neck and shoulders are common areas of soreness and tension.Working at a desk or a computer all day helps to create such problems.To have this pain eased away can be a source of great pleasure.

Massage Steps:
1.Position yourself at your partners head, with them lying on their back.Oil the front of the body, starting with hands on their upper chest, then move down over the breastbone, out around the ribcage, and back up the sides of the body to the starting position.Place hands on the upper chest, fingers pointing toward each other and press down, gliding the hands out toward the top of the arm.
2.Cradle the head in one hand and turn it slightly toward the right.With the other hand, glide firmly out from the center of the chest to the top of the arm, back along the top of the shoulder, and up the back of the neck to the base of the skull.
3.Make little circles along the back of the neck to release tension, then continue down the side of the neck to the chest.Stroke firmly down the side of the neck and out along the top of the shoulder, stretching the neck muscles.
4.Turn the head back to the center with both hands supporting the head under the neck, and pull gently to stretch out the neck muscles.
5.Turn the head to the opposite side and repeat the sequence for the other shoulder.Return the head to the center and pull gently.Make small, overlapping, circular movements up the back of the neck to the skull and then stroke up the back of the head and off.Gently lower the head.

Massage Therapy: A Step By Step Guide

Chest Massage:

As you work around the body, change your position so that you are comfortable.Involve your whole body-whether standing or sitting, use the floor as a lever to help you and let your body move in the same rhythm as the strokes you are creating.

Massage Steps:
1.Using the fingertips, work in between the upper ribs, stroking from the center of the chest outward.Repeat three or four times, moving down to the next rib with each repeat.
2.Using small overlapping circles, massage down over the breastbone and sweep down over the ribcage and back up the sides of the body.
3.Starting at the bottom of the ribcage, use a pulling motion up each side of the body.Repeat on the other side.
4.To finish, place both hands on upper chest, pointing outward and toward the shoulders, and pressing a little, glide hands firmly out and off the shoulders.

Massage Therapy: A Step By Step Guide

Back Massage:

During a full body massage the largest amount of time is usually devoted to the back and shoulders, partly because the back represents such a large part of the body, and partly because this is a very common place for people to accumulate tension.

Massage Steps:
1.Position yourself at your partners head with them lying on their front, face downward or turned to one side, and arms by their sides.Starting on their upper back, glide hands slowly down either side of the spine, back up the sides of the body, and lightly over the shoulders.
2.Turn Your partners head gently to their right and work on their left shoulder.Using both hands, starting at the base of the neck, make firm strokes outward along the shoulder and off at the top of the arm.
3.Use the thumbs to work into the muscles at the base of the neck.Pay particular attention to any knots or areas of rightness that you find here, working firmly and slowly into the muscles, making tiny circles.

Massage Tip:

Avoid rough or sudden movements as you cover and uncover the different areas of the body.Make sure you place the towel gently and avoid abrupt movements that might be disturbing to someone in a relaxed state.

Upper Back: Massage Steps
1.Move to the right of your partner.Grasp the top of their right shoulder with your right hand and place your left hand on their lower back.Draw the left hand firmly up along the side of the spine and the right hand down to meet it.Continue the stroke, moving both hands upward over the shoulder.
2.Slide hands down the arm and, taking the elbow in your right hand and the hand in your left, lift the arm and place it behind the back.
3.Cupping your right hand under the right shoulder, use the thumb or fingers of your left hand to work from the shoulder down around the shoulderblade.Stroke upward and over the whole shoulderblade.Use the fingers and thumb to stroke firmly along the protruding bone of the top of the shoulderblade.Move the arm back to its original position and turn your partner's head to the other side.Repeat the above sequence for the other side of the body.

Massage Tip:

Always avoid working directly over the spine, unless you are using extremely gentle, or feathering-type strokes. Work into the muscles either side of the spine instead.

Lower Back: Massage Steps
1.Position yourself next to your partners lower back.Placing the first and index fingers of each hand on either side of the spine, with one hand slightly behind the other, make rhythmic, overlapping movements all the way down the back.
2.Oil the lower back, starting at the base of the spine(the sacrum) gliding up, on either side of the spine to the ribcage, and down the sides of the body, returning to the starting position.
3.Using a friction stroke with the thumbs, make small overlapping circles over the sacrum, gradually moving up the sides of the spine to the ribcage.
4.Shift your position slightly so that you are facing your partner and begin working on the opposite side of the body.Make big gliding circles moving up the side of the spine, around the ribcage, down the side of the body,over the fleshy part of the hip, and back to the strating position.Using firm generous kneading strokes, work gradually over the entire hip area.
5.Place hands, facing across the body, with one on each hip, and using a wringing stroke all the way up the body to the shoulders.Changing position, repeat the above sequence for the opposite side of the body.To finish the sequence, stroke down the whole length of the spine several times using alternative hands.

Massage Tip:

For comfort you may wish to place a small cushion under the upper chest, under the ankles, and under the ribcage, just below the breasts(for women).
When performed in a slow, focussed way, the massage sequence can invoke an almost meditative state in the client, and perhaps even in the masseur too.

Massage Therapy: A Step By Step Guide

Different Types Of Stroke And Pressure:

There are a variety of different strokes that can be used, ranging from the most delicate touch with the fingertips to focussed deep-tissue work.All strokes can be varied in speed and pressure.Keeping your hands relaxed, begin working slowly and rhythmatically, gradually building up speed and pressure as you experiment.
Some basic points:
1.As a general rule, strokes should be made firmly in the direction of the heart, and then lightly for the return stroke.
2.By varying their intensity, strokes can be used either to stimulate or relax.
3.Ideally the reciever should experience the massage as one long series of rhythmic strokes.

Massage Position:
Avoid working only from your hands and shoulders.Use the weight and movement of your whole body to improve the fluidity of your strokes and to help you when you wish to use more pressure.

Massage Strokes:

1.Gliding:
This stroke is used a great deal throughout the massage sequence and is particularly useful for applying oil to the body.It can be a feather-light or a firm re-assuring stroke.Keeping the fingers together and hands outstretched, glide the hands forward along the length of the body or limb, retaining contact with the flat of the hand.The strokes you employ can be either long or circular, using one or both hands.The function of gliding strokes is to relax and stretch your partners muscles.
2.Kneading:
Kneading is a firm stroke used on a specific area to help release muscle tension and improve circulation.Gently grasp the area(e.g. calf, thigh, or fleshy area over the hip) with both hands and make a kneading action similar to that of kneading dough.
3.Draining:
A light-to medium-pressure stroke which relaxes and stretches the muscles anmd improves circulation.Use either the heel of the hand on larger areas (e.g. thigh) or the thumbs on smaller areas(e.g. calves, forearms).With one hand following the other, push firmly using the heel or thumb of first hand and the next, traveling slowly upward along the limb or muscle.
4.Pulling:
This stroke can be used to pull and stretch the muscles of the trunk, and the legs.Use alternating hands in a pulling motion, gradually moving them up the body.
5.Wringing:
This stroke is similar to "pulling", but works right across the body or limb.This is a good stroke with which to finish a particular sequence and can be used on the torse, legs, and arms.Start with hands placed either side of the body or limb.Moving the hands in a forward and back motion across the body, progress slowly up toward the head.
6.Friction Strokes:
These are deeper strokes wich allow you to work around jionts and into the muscles and tendons, to iron out knots and release tension.Using the thumbs or fingertips, work slowly and firmly into the area, making tiny circular movements.Different individuals will prefer different pressures-some will only be able to tolerate light pressure, others will want you to work as deeply as possible.
7.Percussive Strokes:
Percussive strokes, such as hacking, cupping and plucking, are used to stimulate areas, improve circulation, and release muscle tension.They can be used on the shoulders, arms, legs, buttocks, and gently along the back.Do not use percussive strokes directly on the spine.These strokes are not an essential part of any massage sequence, but you may wish to incorporate some of them into your routine.They can be performed very lightly, or with more intensity, as appropriate.Remember to keep your hands and wrists as relaxed as possible.
8.Hacking:
With hands open and palms facing each other, make an alternating "chopping" motion up and down the body.As a variation on this stroke, curl the fingers into loose fists to create more of pummeling effect on the body.
9.Cupping:
Cup hands and face palms downwards.Keeping hands cupped, gently beat up and down along the body.
10.Pinching Or Plucking:
Gently lift small amounts of flesh and let it slide through the fingers

FACE CLEANSING

Your face looks back at you from the mirror...does it look dry or oily or listless, or does it look glowing and radiant?This depends on how you take care of your face. Start by giving yourself 15 minutes in the morning and 15 minutes at bedtime.

Tip 1:Take 1 tbsp of un-boiled milk, dip a small pad of cotton wool in this and rub on the face gently. Use circular movements, use upward strokes on the neck area. Leave this on for 15 minutes. Wash with cold water.

Tip 2:Take a thick slice of cucumber. Don't peel the slice, rub in a circular motion all over the face and neck areas. Wash after 15 minutes.

Tip 3:Halve a tomato, gently rub over face and neck and wash after 15 minutes.

Tip 4:Take the half of a lime peel, from which the juice has been extracted, rub this firmly on the face and the neck. Using a Scrub-(once in 3-4 days).After washing off the milk or juice - take a tsp of oat bran or wheat husk or gram flour (besan). Make a paste with a few drops of water and rub the face and neck gently with this. This sloughs away the dead cells and gives the face a glow. Don't use soap, just splash on cold water that will act as an astringent and close the pores.

Tip 5:Use green gram powder or rice flour mixed with curds instead.Oily Skin: If the face is oily,After a bath as a base for make-up use some diluted limejuice to dab on before application of foundation or any other make-up.

Tip 6:Diluted buttermilk dabbed on the face and left for 15 minutes, gently wipe with moist cotton wool before applying make-up.

Tip 7:Rub the face well with an ice cube.Tip 8:Slice an Apple into thin slices. Place these on the face and leave for 15 minutes.
These soak up the extra oil and helps to close pores.

Beauty After Twenty five

A woman having a perfect, petal smooth and rosy complexion is the envy of all women. Wherever she goes, heads turn in her direction in admiration. Such a complexion cannot be acquired without an effort. It has to be cultivated slowly and gradually by nurturing it carefully from within and without. Up to the age of 25 the skin is naturally supple, glowing and alive, but it is after the mid twenties that the skin slowly starts losing its fresh and youthful appearance and acquiring a parched look. This is because the cells deep within the skin layers are no longer able to retain their moisture and the beauty of the skin mainly depends upon the moisture contained in the cells.

The skin which cannot retain its moisture turns dry, rough, dull and wrinkled. Therefore in order to avoid looking prematurely old, you should try to observe a basic skin care routine after you pass your mid twenties so that the cells in your skin can retain maximum moisture and your skin remains firm, moist and young right up to old age.

Some people believe erroneously that moisturizing creams and lotions alone will keep the moisture level of the skin in perfect balance. No surface addition of moisture and no man made lubricant will help you unless you look after the inner life of your skin where beauty and youth really begin. Therefore, if you want to stimulate your cells to activity for a new look and the feel of youth, feed it regularly with a diet rich in proteins and vitamins B and C. Also, take at least six glasses of water every day, one glass of carrot juice and one pint of either milk or buttermilk. Besides looking after the inner life of your skin, you should also look after its outer life.

It is a good idea to use homemade moisturizing cream regularly after the age of 25 onwards, because this cream helps keep the skin soft, dewy and alive. But before applying any cream, remove all traces of makeup with homemade cleansing cream. Foundation cream is not soluble in water and does not come off even with soap. Therefore, a cleansing cream is a must for removing every trace of makeup and grime sooty and coaly dirt. To make the cream take one tablespoon of gram flour and mix to a paste with cream of milk. Stir in a few drops of lime juice and a pinch of turmeric powder. Mix well and apply it with your finger-tips over your face and neck. Leave it on for a few minutes and then rub your face vigorously with your hands. The paste will go on falling as you rub. Remove the clinging paste with hot water, splash on cold water. Blot dry and then apply this homemade cream on the face and neck.

Blanch and grind four almonds, one walnut, a couple each of peanuts and charoli to a very smooth paste. Mix in tour tablespoons of cream of milk, two melted. tablespoons of cucumber juice and one table spoon each of honey and rose water. Mix well and store in a small bottle. Massage it on the face and neck in circular upward movements firmly and gently.

This cleansing cream should not be just patted on the skin but it should be rubbed hard into the skin so that the oils it contains are picked up by the glands. But be careful with the areas around the eyes. Pat the cream lightly using the middle finger tip under and around the eyes. Leave the cream on for half an hour and then remove with tissue paper what the skin has not absorbed. This cream will not only give you a normal skin which is neither dry nor greasy but at the same time it will give your skin a natural glow, the look of health and feel of youth.

After you cross 25 use only moisture laden foundation creams because they not only protect a dry skin and help maintain a normal skin but also protect the skin from wind, sun, cold and dust. Use a special moisturizing pomade stick on your lips before applying your lipstick and apply over it a little lip gloss to keep them soft and pretty.

If you take regular care of your skin after you have passed your mid twenties by feeding it with a sensible diet and using moisture laden creams, the cells of your skin will be supplied with ample moisture to keep it supple, soft and wrinkle free. Your skin will have a smooth surface that is neither oily nor dry with a glow of health that stems from good blood circulation, regular care, regular attention and excellent general health.

Breast Development in Females

It’s an exciting time when your breasts finally start growing. And often an anxious time, with lots of worries… like how big will they get, will they look good, and is anything wrong with mine? So here is the basic information you need to know about healthy breasts. The development of tender breast “buds” is usually the first sign of puberty in girls. Some girls notice breast growth as early as age 7 or 8, while others don’t start until age 13 or so. The timing is determined by your own biologic “clock” that tells your body to start producing high levels of female hormones. Breasts go through five “stages” of growth over the next five to six years, until their full maturity is reached by age 17 or 18. The final size of a girl’s breasts is determined by heredity and can range from very small (like bra size AA) to very full (such as size EE). Breast size varies greatly among women, and all sizes and shapes are normal and healthy. The breast made up of milk glands and ducts, connective tissue and fat. In teenagers and young women the breast tissue is firm and dense, and then becomes softer and more fatty with age. There is no muscle tissue in the breast, which is why there are no exercises to make them bigger. However, the pectoral muscles that lie underneath the breasts can be firmed up to provide lift and shape (think of the “pecs” on male body builders.) Since the breasts do contain lots of fat cells, women will notice their bra size increases with weight gain. Nature designed a woman’s breast to produce milk for her baby. In our society however, the breast is often viewed as a symbol of femininity and sexual attractiveness, so it is normal for a young woman to have lots of questions about her breasts. FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) My breasts are starting to grow. They hurt and are very tender. They also itch a lot and I’m getting red stretch marks. How long will this last? What you are experiencing is very normal. Hormones cause your breasts to start “budding,” and the new tissue is very tender at first. Because the skin is stretching, it may also itch. Usually the pain and itching last less than a year (even though your breasts will continue to grow over five to six years.) It sounds like it’s time to get your first bra, which will protect the tender new breast growth and help minimize any pain. Any time the skin expands rapidly, the delicate underlying tissue can tear, causing thin scars (stretch marks) to form. The marks are pink or reddish at first, but they will fade and become pale or skin colored in about a year or so. There is no evidence that any treatment will prevent the stretch marks of puberty, but many women like to moisturize the skin with creams containing cocoa butter, vitamin E, vitamin K or aloe vera. Is breast size hereditary? I heard it is, but I’m nowhere near the size of my mom. Yes, breast size is primarily determined by heredity. However, genetics can be very complicated, and the genes for your breast size may have come not just from your mom, but also from your father’s side, or from more distant relatives you don’t even know. So many girls will have a breast size different from their mother or their sisters. Remember that breasts are normal whether small, large or in between. When do your breasts stop growing? Your breasts usually continue to grow for about four years after your first period. But what we mean medically by breast “growth” can be very subtle. Breast tissue develops through five “stages” during puberty. Stage 1 is the flat, childhood chest. Stage 2 is breast “budding”, when the nipples swell and become tender. In Stage 3, breast tissue enlarges from gland and fat development. Young teens usually start their first period about this time. During Stage 4, the breasts may change only in contour (shape) rather than size, and the nipples protrude. Then in Stage 5, breast growth is completed. By age 17 or 18 you’ll know your final breast size. I want my breasts grow bigger. Is there anything I can do to make them grow faster without surgery? No, there is nothing you can do to make your breasts grow bigger or faster than nature intends. Don’t be misled by advertisements for special creams or “natural” herbs or supplements. If you read the fine print, you’ll see “results vary with individuals” or “works until full maturity is reached” – meaning they won’t do anything more than your own genetics have already pre-determined. How old do I have to be to get surgical breast implants put in? Medically it is safe to do breast augmentation once your breasts have finished growing. Most plastic surgeons recommend you wait until legal age of consent (age 18 to 21depending on state laws) before considering cosmetic breast implants. The surgeon would advise you of the risks of the procedure, which could include scar tissue, infection, inability to breastfeed your babies later, and other possible complications. My breasts are too big. Are there exercises I can do to reduce them? There are no exercises you can do to reduce breast size. Your breasts are made up mostly of glandular and fat tissue, rather than muscle, so exercising won’t help. A common side effect mentioned by teens with very full breasts is back pain. Sometimes this is due to hunching forward in an effort to hide the size of your breasts, so practicing good posture and doing stretching exercises to strengthen your back muscles will help minimize the pain. You might also visit the undergarment section of the best department store in your town, and ask for help selecting a correctly fitted good support bra. Since there are a few rare medical conditions that can cause explosive breast growth, if you haven’t had a health check-up recently, make an appointment with your doctor. An annual physical examination is recommended for all girls your age, and this would be a good opportunity to ask any questions you have about your development. Eventually if your breast size continues to be a problem for you, your doctor can refer you to a breast surgeon who can discuss the pros and cons of breast-reduction surgery. One of my breasts is bigger than the other. Is this normal? Yes, it is completely normal to have one breast be a different size from the other. Many young teens will notice this while their breasts are growing during puberty, and often it will even out with time. But about 25% of adult women will continue to have persistent visible difference in their breast sizes (this is called asymmetry.) If one breast is growing markedly larger than the other, see your pediatrician for a check-up. Otherwise it is natural and nothing to worry about. My breasts have been sore lately and my nipples are getting bigger. Is this another one of those stages my body is going through or is something wrong? Breast tenderness and changes in the nipples and areola are commonly caused by hormone stimulation. Early puberty is the first time to usually notice this. Pregnancy is another typical time when this happens. The hormones in birth control pills may also be the cause. Many other drugs can also cause breast tenderness, including antidepressants, marijuana and many street drugs. Tell your doctor about the breast changes you are noticing, and ask if the pill or some other condition may be the explanation I found a lump on the side of my breast two months ago. What could it be? It’s very good to be aware of your body and check your breasts. Almost any woman would be very concerned about finding a lump in her breast. If you have not yet had your first period, then the lump could be a breast “bud” that marks the beginning of puberty. Breast buds keep growing and develop into full breasts over several years. If you have already started your periods, then a lump in the breast is usually a simple cyst. This is a breast duct that has temporarily plugged up with fluid, and it will resolve by itself in two or three months. A cyst may be painful, but it is harmless. Occasionally a breast lump will be a mass of solid fibrous tissue called a “fibroadenoma,” which is also benign (harmless), but it may not go away by itself. We recommend that you have the breast lump checked by your doctor. Depending on the size and feel of it, your doctor may decide to observe it over a couple of months to see if it goes away. If it lasts more that three months, then you may need further evaluation (such as an ultrasound test or an aspiration of the fluid.) In any case, rest assured that almost all breast lumps in teenagers are harmless. Breast cancer almost never occurs in teenagers.

Natural Breast Enlargement

The breast enlargement pill. It seems to be somewhat of a buzz word, if not still a little taboo to talk about, since there are still so many skeptics and naysayers who refuse to believe that any pill can enlarge a person's breasts. They are the ones that say only surgery can enlarge the female (or male) breast. While this degree of skepticism is understandable, it quite simply is not true.

There are many women out there who have successfully enlarged their breasts anywhere from one half to one and two cup sizes (and even more in rare cases), by utilizing a breast enlargement pill. Take Chinese women for example. According to the American Cancer Society, China has the best breast health record worldwide. China's traditional medicine does not promote the use of mammograms or synthetic (man made) hormones such as Hormone Replacement Therapy for women lacking estrogen balance in their body as we do.

Chinese women actually have numerous methods for breast enlargement and breast beauty, and it is not such a taboo subject as it is here in the U.S. Special herbal teas help increase circulation to enhance breast firmness. Herbal patches are used as well as therapeutic breast massage, acupuncture and magnet therapy for healthy breast development and maintenance.

Skin Care Tips

• Take 1/3-cup cocoa, three teaspoons of heavy cream, 1/3-cup ripe papaya, 1/4-cup honey and three teaspoons of oatmeal powder. Mix it all together. Apply on your face. After 10 minutes, wash your face with warm water. This is best for oily skin
• • For oily skin, apply a mixture of grapes, lemon and egg white. Leave it for 20 minutes and rinse with warm water. While lemon acts as a natural cleanser, grapes will soften your skin and egg whites will tighten it. Don't be alarmed if your skin tingles.
• • Cut the lemon and rub the wedge all over your face. Leave it for about 20 minutes, then rinse off with cold water. This will refresh your face. Avoid doing this if you have dry skin.
• • Mix honey, lemon and vegetable oil .This mixture is a good moisturizer for dry skin. Apply this mask for 10 minutes.
• • A facemask of egg white and honey gently removes the tan from your face.
• • Apply the mixture of honey and milk on the face . This will make your skin glow.
• • For removing facial hair. Apply a sticky paste of egg white blended with sugar and corn flour. When it dries, gently peel it off. Repeat this three to four times a week.
• • Apply the mixture of tomato juice and honey on the face and neck , wash it after 15 minutes.
• • Thin apple slices rubbed onto oily skin will help in controlling oily shine.
• • For supple skin, apply a ripe smashed banana on your face for 20 minutes daily.
• • For glowing skin, use basin or green gram powder mixed with milk instead of soap.
• • Add a pinch of yeast with 2 teaspoon of cabbage juice and apply.
• • Apply the mixture of carrot juice and basin. Leave it till it dries and wash the face.
• • Mix 1 table spoon of barley powder with half teaspoon of lime juice and 1 teaspoon of honey. Apply it on the face and wash after 20 minutes.
• • Mix vinegar and rose water in equal quantities and apply.
• • For supple skin, apply a ripe smashed banana on your face for 20 minutes daily.
• • For a fair skin, try this natural bleach. Mix orange peels (sun dried and powdered) with milk. Apply this paste for 25 minutes and wash off.

Tips for Healthy Heart

To reduce risk of heart attack, eat healthy and low fat diet. Develop a pattern of eating that will stomach without damaging your heart, but sometimes its hard to figure out which food is good for us.
Try to cut back on foods that are high in saturated fat, total fat, and cholesterol.If you have a family history of high cholesterol or you have a diagnosed high blood cholesterol level, you should take a more vigorous approach to your diet.

Food with High Fats & Cholesterol:

Saturated fat increases your blood cholesterol level more than anything else in your diet; Most of the saturated fat you eat probably comes from animal products.
Dairy products made from whole milk -- including butter, cheese, milk, cream, and ice cream -- and the fat in meat and poultry skin contain very high amounts of saturated fat.
There are also some vegetables that are high in saturated fats, including coconut oil, cocoa butter, palm kernel oil, and palm oil.

What to Eat:

Instead of meats like sausage, bacon, and processed high-fat cold cuts, eat fish, poultry, and leaner cuts of meat, but be sure to remove the fat and skin before eating. It's ok to eat up to six ounces of these daily. You should also cut down on organ meats, such as liver, kidney, and brains.
Replace butter with margarine (the softer the less saturated fat) or vegetable oil. Drink skim or one percent milk instead of whole milk and eat nonfat or low-fat cheese and yogurt. Substituting egg whites, which are cholesterol and fat free, for whole eggs or egg yolks will also help improve your heart health.
The way you prepare your food also affects its nutritional value. It's better to boil, bake, roast, or poach your foods than to fry them. Vegetable oils are great to use instead of butter for sautéing vegetables.
You should try to eat six to 11 servings daily of breads, three to five daily servings of vegetables; two to four daily fruits servings; cereals, rice, and pasta; two to three servings daily of milk, yogurt, and cheese; and two to three servings daily of meat, poultry, fish, dry beans and peas, eggs, nuts, and seeds.

Your diet should focus on fruits, vegetables, and whole grains cereals, breads, rice, and pasta. With a little effort, you can start cooking up healthy and delicious meals in no time.

Hearing Loss Tests Author: Daniel Berry

Hearing Loss Tests Author: Daniel Berry

Audiologists specialize in hearing loss and related disorders. If you’re suffering from hearing loss or tinnitus (ringing in the ears), your doctor might refer you to an audiologist for a complete evaluation. Let’s take a look at what you can expect from an audiology examination.

When you arrive at the audiologist’s office, you’ll be asked several questions about your medical history and your hearing loss. Your answers will help the audiologist become familiar with your needs, formulate a treatment plan, and make referrals if necessary.

Next, the audiologist will perform a physical examination of your ear using a tool called an otoscope. This tool allows the doctor to peer inside your ear canal to check for excessive wax, blockages, infection, or irregularities that need to be addressed.

Once the physical exam is done, the audiologist will conduct a tympanometry test. During this test, the audiologist uses a probe to determine how your eardrum responds to a change of pressure inside the ear. It’s a painless test that helps identify problems which would decrease the eardrum’s flexibility, such as infection or fluid build-up.

After the tympanometry test, the audiologist will administer an audiometry test. This test evaluates how well you can hear different tones at different volumes. First you’ll listen to sounds through a pair of headphones. Then the doctor will put a bone vibrator behind your ear to determine how well your inner ear conducts sounds. The results of the testing will tell the audiologist whether you have conductive hearing loss, sensorineural hearing loss, or a mixture of both.

When all the testing is complete, the audiologist will explain the results to you. They will make a recommendation based on their findings. Then you can ask any questions you have regarding your treatment plan.

Some of the tones you hear during the audiometry test might be uncomfortable for a brief time, but audiology exams are generally painless and very useful for diagnosing and treating your hearing problems.

Pre-school children (one to four years)

Your weight Expert advice to help you maintain a healthy weight Dissatisfied with your weight? We're bombarded with scare stories about weight, from size zero to the obesity 'epidemic'. But a healthy weight is determined by different factors for each of us. Our expert advice is designed to help you achieve and maintain a healthy, life-enhancing weight. Overweight or underweight? Being the right weight has a positive effect on wellbeing but also on our health, as being the wrong weight can cause a range of medical problems. Nutrition for children Food and nutrients help to form strong teeth and bones, muscles and a healthy body. A good diet can also help to protect your child against illness now and in the future. This is a critical time to complete the weaning process, reducing the amount of milk and establishing the foundations of your child’s diet. A young child's diet needs special care and planning - the need for energy and nutrients is high, but appetites are small and eating habits can be fussy. Their diet must be made up of small, regular, nutrient-dense meals. Key nutrients and dietary sources Suitable foods Base your child's intake on the following food groups to help ensure they’re getting all the important nutrients. Remember pre-school children should be allowed to eat according to appetite, as there are no definitive recommendations on portion sizes for this age group. At this age, children are often good at regulating their appetite. There's no need to rely on pre-prepared toddler foods. If the family diet is healthy, children can just have family food. 1. At least one kind of starchy carbohydrate, such as bread, rice, pasta, noodles, cereals or potatoes, should be served with all meals. Young children have small appetites, so fibre-rich carbohydrates can be bulky and inhibit the absorption of some minerals. Gradually introduce higher fibre carbohydrate foods, such as wholewheat pasta and brown rice, so that by the time children are five, they're eating the same fibre-rich foods as the rest of the family. 2. Fruit and vegetables should be eaten often. Aim for at least five servings a day, where a serving is about a handful in size. Use fruit in puddings and as snacks Frozen and canned fruit and vegetables can be just as nutritious as fresh varieties Vegetables can be eaten raw or cooked (serve crunchy rather than very soft to preserve the vitamins and minerals) If vegetables aren't a favourite, try hiding them by pureeing in to soups, sauces, casseroles and pizza toppings 3. Milk and dairy foods are an important source of calcium. Your child should be having about one pint (500 to 600ml) of milk a day. Use full-fat varieties; semi-skimmed may be given from the age of two if the overall diet contains enough energy and nutrients Milk can be used on cereals or in drinks, puddings and sauces Cheese, fromage frais or yoghurt can be given instead of some milk Grated cheese, cheese spread or cheese portions can be used on sandwiches or toast Try yoghurts as a pudding or snack between meals, served alone or with fruit 4. Meat, fish and alternatives should be eaten once or twice a day. Minced beef, turkey, chicken and pork should be cooked slowly to ensure it's soft and tender The Food Standards Agency recommends at least two servings of fish a week, one of which should be oily. But don't give your child more than four servings of oily fish a week for boys and two servings a week for girls. Shark, swordfish or marlin should also be avoided, as these contain high levels of mercury, which might affect a child's developing nervous system Use eggs, either boiled, in sandwiches, as omelettes or scrambled Try different beans and pulses, such as lentils, baked beans, peas and chickpeas

Pre-school children (one to four years)

Your weight Expert advice to help you maintain a healthy weight Dissatisfied with your weight? We're bombarded with scare stories about weight, from size zero to the obesity 'epidemic'. But a healthy weight is determined by different factors for each of us. Our expert advice is designed to help you achieve and maintain a healthy, life-enhancing weight. Overweight or underweight? Being the right weight has a positive effect on wellbeing but also on our health, as being the wrong weight can cause a range of medical problems. Nutrition for children Food and nutrients help to form strong teeth and bones, muscles and a healthy body. A good diet can also help to protect your child against illness now and in the future. This is a critical time to complete the weaning process, reducing the amount of milk and establishing the foundations of your child’s diet. A young child's diet needs special care and planning - the need for energy and nutrients is high, but appetites are small and eating habits can be fussy. Their diet must be made up of small, regular, nutrient-dense meals. Key nutrients and dietary sources Suitable foods Base your child's intake on the following food groups to help ensure they’re getting all the important nutrients. Remember pre-school children should be allowed to eat according to appetite, as there are no definitive recommendations on portion sizes for this age group. At this age, children are often good at regulating their appetite. There's no need to rely on pre-prepared toddler foods. If the family diet is healthy, children can just have family food. 1. At least one kind of starchy carbohydrate, such as bread, rice, pasta, noodles, cereals or potatoes, should be served with all meals. Young children have small appetites, so fibre-rich carbohydrates can be bulky and inhibit the absorption of some minerals. Gradually introduce higher fibre carbohydrate foods, such as wholewheat pasta and brown rice, so that by the time children are five, they're eating the same fibre-rich foods as the rest of the family. 2. Fruit and vegetables should be eaten often. Aim for at least five servings a day, where a serving is about a handful in size. Use fruit in puddings and as snacks Frozen and canned fruit and vegetables can be just as nutritious as fresh varieties Vegetables can be eaten raw or cooked (serve crunchy rather than very soft to preserve the vitamins and minerals) If vegetables aren't a favourite, try hiding them by pureeing in to soups, sauces, casseroles and pizza toppings 3. Milk and dairy foods are an important source of calcium. Your child should be having about one pint (500 to 600ml) of milk a day. Use full-fat varieties; semi-skimmed may be given from the age of two if the overall diet contains enough energy and nutrients Milk can be used on cereals or in drinks, puddings and sauces Cheese, fromage frais or yoghurt can be given instead of some milk Grated cheese, cheese spread or cheese portions can be used on sandwiches or toast Try yoghurts as a pudding or snack between meals, served alone or with fruit 4. Meat, fish and alternatives should be eaten once or twice a day. Minced beef, turkey, chicken and pork should be cooked slowly to ensure it's soft and tender The Food Standards Agency recommends at least two servings of fish a week, one of which should be oily. But don't give your child more than four servings of oily fish a week for boys and two servings a week for girls. Shark, swordfish or marlin should also be avoided, as these contain high levels of mercury, which might affect a child's developing nervous system Use eggs, either boiled, in sandwiches, as omelettes or scrambled Try different beans and pulses, such as lentils, baked beans, peas and chickpeas

Role Of Protein As A Fat Burner

Scientific studies have recently been conducted to verify the fact that if you eat more protein, especially during a lowered calorie diet, you will wind up losing less muscle tissue than those who don't. It should be pointed out here that the number one thing to remember when losing weight with any method, is to make sure you don't lose too much muscle mass. Muscles increase the metabolism greatly which means if we lose enough of it, our metabolism can drop sharply. Muscles burn fat because they need calories for maintenance. So the more muscle you have, the more calories you will burn daily. People who go on starvation diets lose large amounts of muscle tissue. When these people return to normal eating habits, their metabolism will actually work slower from the lost muscle mass. They will tend to put on even more weight than they initially lost from dieting and losing weight becomes even harder and frustrating. Protein is a word that literally means "of prime importance". It is an essential nutrient that is used to build the body, especially the muscles. It's also used to build organs, hair, hormones, nails and many more body parts. The human body cannot operate or survive without adequate protein. People who tend to have issues with their weight were found to eat much less protein than needed. Your protein needs will be much higher if you regularly engange in exercise or are very mentally active. Protein is such a useful tool for weight loss in many ways, one of them being for it's thermic value. Of all the food types, protein has the highest thermic value which means that it is the hardest to digest and uses up more calories in the process. Taking longer to digest, it will leave you feeling satisfied for a longer period of time. It also doesn't cause your blood sugar level to spike too quickly. An important aspect of protein is that it's made up of what's called amino acids. There are actually 12 essential amino acids that the body is unable to produce by itself and has to acquire them from external food sources. The majority of people are deficient in certain amino acids. This is either because they simply don't consume enough, or that they don't eat foods that have high quality protein within them that the body can easily assimilate. Eggs and yogurt contain protein of high biological value. What this means is that we can use this type of protein much easier than other types. Another good source is whey protein powder. If the foods that you eat regularly are low in nutrients and amino acids, your body will be hungry more often. This is because it needs to eat a lot to get those nutrients that it needs. If on the other hand, you started to eat nutrient-dense foods, the body will need less food and only need food when it needs calories for energy. This is actually one of the biggest reasons why people fail on crash or fad types of diets. They feel intense hunger when depriving their body from what it really needs. It needs to be mentioned here that when cook protein, parts of it actually get transformed and destroys certain key amino acids. Protein is sensitive to heat, so it is a good idea to add a few raw protein sources to your current diet. These could include seeds, yogurt, nuts, fruit, some vegetables, whey and cheese that have not been cooked. This will provide you with all 12 of those essential amino acids that the body craves. It can then produce the other acids from the initial 12. To also help preserve the muscle tissue in the body, you can do more exercise or weight training. If your body needs it's muscle for frequent motion, it will tend not to use them as fuel. It will begin using stores of fat to feed the muscles and cells in the body.

Black Hair Care Tips

Many people in the world has the black hairs which are more brittle and more prone to breakage. Black hair needs special care because they are fragile and difficult to control. Black hair are always almost curly, although the degree of wave varies enormously. As a general rule, black hair is brittle and has a tendency to split and break. This is because the sebaceous glands produce insufficient sebum to moisturize the hair. They need special attention and special tips to make them last longer.

In addition, because the hair is tightly curled, the sebum is unable to travel downwards to condition it naturally. If the curl forms kinks, this makes the hair thinner and therefore weaker at each band.

Other type of black hair can be very fine making it difficult to style and hold a set.

To treat excessive dryness choose a specialist formulation that replace the natural oil lacking in black hair. If the product is massaged daily or whenever necessary, the hair will become more manageable with improved condition and shine. It is also important to deep condition the hair regularly.

Tips on black hair caring

• Hair need to be strong and healthy to take any type of chemical treatment. To check hair strength and natural elasticity, pluck out a hair and hold it firmly between both hands, then pull gently. If the hair breaks with hardly any stretching, it is in week and poor condition, in which all chemical treatments should be avoided.
• One of the most effective ways of styling very curly hair is to crop it close and short. With this type of cut you just need to shampoo, condition and finish it with soft wax.
• Massage the scalp regularly to encourage oil production.
• If you use hot combs or curling tongs, make sure you shield the hair by using a protective product.
• If the hair is pulled too forcibly too often, it will disrupt the hair folicles, cause scar tissue to form and ultimately hair loss. To help prevent this, avoid braiding or pulling the hair into tight braids.
• To prevent frizziness and maintain the definition of curls, special lotions called curl actibators and moisturising sprays can be used to revive and preserve the formation of curls.
• Black hair should be colored with caution because of its natural dryness and porosity.
• Once a month, try a hot oil treatment which will lubricate dry scalp condition as well as moisturise brittle hair.
• As with all chemical treatments, relaxing and pumming can be potentially harmful to the hair, removing natural moisture and leaving hair in a weakend state. For this reason it is advisable to get skilled professional help and advice.

Get Healthy Glowing Skin, Stay Hydrated

Get Healthy Glowing Skin, Stay Hydrated
One of the best ways to nourish your skin is to drink plenty of water. Water assists the body with it’s natural elimination process by flushing unwanted toxins out.
Did you know? Crankiness and irritability are some of the first signs that a person is dehydrated. A good thing to tell your sweety next time either one of you gets a little crabby. or better yet, say nothing and just give ‘em a little agua.
TIP #1Keep a never-ending supply of water at your desk at work or wherever you spend most of your time. I like to mix things up with a little sparkling water or a slice of lemon or orange or cucumber on days that I want to pamper myself.
TIP#2For a little added pampering at work, try a hydrating mist.My secret weapon that I keep stored in my desk drawer is Shu Uemura Hydrating Mist:http://www.blogger.com/www.healthbest-healthbest.blogspot.com

Skin Care tios

For Glowing skin

• A facemask of egg white and honey gently removes the tan from your face.
• Mix oats with honey, yogurt and ground almonds. Apply this in your face, leave it for five minutes and wash with lukewarm water.
• Cucumber is a natural cleanser. Mix cucumber juice with milk and use it instead of a cleanser.
• For oily skin, apply a mixture of grapes, lemon and egg white. Leave it for 20 minutes and rinse with warm water. While lemon acts as a natural cleanser, grapes will soften your skin and egg whites will tighten it. Don’t be alarmed if your skin tingles.
• Cut the lemon and rub the wedge all over your face. Leave it for about 20 minutes, then rinse off with cold water. This will refresh your face. Avoid doing this if you have dry skin.
• Mix honey, lemon and vegetable oil .This mixture is a good moisturiser for dry skin. Apply this mask for 10 minutes.
• Apply the mixture of honey and milk on the face . This will make your skin glow.
• Prepare a mask by mixing a slice of pumpkin with egg yolk and milk. Let this mask set on your face for 30 minutes for a glowing skin.
• Mix half-a-cup honey to your bath water for soft and smooth skin.
• For a soothing body pack, prepare a paste of mint leaves and almonds. Mix it with warm water and apply all over your body. Leave it till it dries and rinse with warm water.
• Buttermilk dabbed on skin for 15 minutes will soak up oil from your skin without drying it.
• Carrot juice applied daily fades blemishes.
• For dark underarms and neck apply lemon juice mixed with cucumber juice and a pinch of turmeric daily. Leave this on for 20 minutes.
• For removing facial hair.. Apply a sticky paste of egg white blended with sugar and corn flour. When it dries, gently peel it off. Repeat this three to four times a week.
• Thin apple slices rubbed onto oily skin will help in controlling oily shine.
• For supple skin, apply a ripe smashed banana on your face for 20 minutes daily.
• Cauliflower juice applied on warts regularly will make them fall.
• For a fair skin, try this natural bleach. Mix orange peels (sun dried and powdered) with milk. Apply this paste for 25 minutes and wash off.
• Mix half teaspoon dried curry leaf powder with multani mitti (fullers earth) and apply on the face. Wash it after it gets dry.
• Apply the mixture of tomato juice and honey on the face and neck , wash it after 15 minutes.
• Apply the mixture of carrot juice and basin. Leave it till it dries and wash the face.
• Add two teaspoon of tomato juice with 4 teaspoon of curd and apply on the face.
• Add a pinch of yeast with 2 teaspoon of cabbage juice and apply.
• Mix 1 table spoon of barley powder with half teaspoon of lime juice and 1 teaspoon of honey. Apply it on the face and wash after 20 minutes.
• Mix pineapple juice and carrot juice together and apply it on the face and wash it after 15 minutes.
• Mix vinegar and rose water in equal quantities and apply.
• Mix curd and cucumber juice and apply it on the face.
• Apply the mixture of coconut water and thick pineapple juice.
• Make a paste with 1/2 teaspoon of milk powder, 1/4 teaspoon of egg white and 1/2 teaspoon of lemon juice and apply on the face.
• For dry skin, Make a paste with egg yolk, olive oil and lemon juice. Apply it on the neck and face, wash it out after 10 minutes.
• For oily skin, take a mixture of oatmeal and egg white and apply it on the neck and face
• For glowing skin, use basin or green gram powder mixed with milk instead of soap.
• Apply the mixture of raw turmeric and cream of milk on the face and wash it after 20 minutes. It will make your skin fair.
• Apply the mixture of honey, basin, cream of milk and olive oil as a face pack.
• Apply the paste of fenugreek with milk on the face and let it dry. Wash off with luke warm water.

• Make a paste of red sandal wood and apply it on the face every day for glowing skin.

• Make a paste with red sandal powder and coconut milk and apply on the face for soft skin.