“This soap is one of my favorites. Its made with honey & milk, which makes one of the most gentle soaps around. The scent is a perfect marriage and reminiscent of richly blended oatmeal, fresh milk and honey. Its mellow, soothing, not too heavy on the honey with just a hint of sweetness. “
“This soap is the comfort food of soaps. Finely ground oatmeal is added for gentle exfoliating properties. You’ll absolutely love this soap!” Its great for sensitive skin. This soap also comes unscented for ultimate gentleness!
Do not sleep on loose wet hair. You may braid the hair prior to retiring for the night to create waves and a curly texture to our natural straight hair. C omb out all tangles prior to wetting or washing hair. C ondition hair after every wash. Take care of your remi hair and be gentle with it. It is very sensitive to the environment. Use a large toothed pick or comb to style your remi hair by starting from the bottom and working your way up. Keep your hair clean and conditioned at least weekly. O nly use warm or cold water. Keep your hair in its natural direction when washing to prevent tangles. Start at the top (near the scalp) and gently squeeze hair in a downward motion. Do not wring or rub the hair in the opposite direction.
Wear a swim cap or plastic cap to protect your hair while swimming. Chlorine and other chemicals can damage the hair. Lightly spray your hair each morning with a hair oil/water mix or moisturizing lotion to maintain a fresh look with wavy or curly hair. Be sure that it does not contain alcohol so that your hair will not dry out. Apply conditioners sparingly.
14 Mar 2005
True Colors For Women Of Color
by Cheryl Duffey
Women of color have often felt ignored by cosmetics companies. Many ethnic women have had trouble finding foundation and makeup colors that are flattering . African-American women usually have sensitive, oily skin that scars easily. Products that are powdery can look ashy and chalky on darker complexions, and pink pigmented products are unflattering to ethnic skintones.
In the beginning, there was Fashion Fair. Founded in 1973 and aimed at African-American and Carribean women, it offered darker colors, not available at the time. It is still around, and can be purchased at a handful of stores across the country. The line seems a bit old-fashioned to me. There is a skincare line that includes bleaching cream and oil reduction products. Color choices are conservative, and I could not find a product with a sunscreen (we should all wear sunscreen) . Still, it is a no-frills line for dark- skinned women. www.fashionfair.com.
In 1994, fashion model Iman, tired of mixing her own colors and formulas, started her own cosmetics line. I-man is geared to all women of color, and it really succeeds in its goal. It is a line with multi-cultural appeal, and no unnecessary products. She has pared it down to a wonderful range of essentials.
The products are creamy, and blend well. I like the pressed powder, which leaves a dewy finish. The skincare line is excellent. I recommend Hydrator SPF 15, and Drench, a rich but light moisturizer. Both are $35.00.
Iman has two websites. www.i-man.com is her personal site with info about the products, and her makeup philosophy. It projects the image of a funky urban drama queen, fitting for the wife of David Bowie. Her line can be purchased at www.imanbeauty.com, a very user-friendly site with descriptions of all the items, and easy checkout. I-man is also available at most JC Penney’s.
For women who want a large line with many flattering color options, I suggest Nars, and MAC. Nars has dark lipsticks in lovely shades of brown and burgundy. Nars is available at www.neimanmarcus.com and at major department stores. At the MAC shop I visited recently, there was a lovely dark-skinned makeup artist, with her brushes in a large tool belt around her waist. She was willing to take the time to assist customers with their choices, and she knew the line well. MAC uses women of color as models. Go to www.maccosmetics.com for store locations.
I am a multi-racial woman. I am not Asian, but with my very yellow undertones, I find that Shiseido works well for me. I have always been drawn to the dramatic palettes and unique products. I have been wearing makeup since I was 13, and when I want color, Shiseido has never let me down. Find Shiseido products at most major department stores.
Women of color now have more options, as companies realize the potential of a powerful consumer base. Ideally, cosmetics companies should consider the ethnic market. Most women are willing to pay for quality products and good service, especially if the products are tailored to her needs. A woman of color wants to feel welcome at the cosmetics counter. Consultants should be aware of her needs, and the company should feature ethnic faces in their advertising.
by Cheryl Duffey
14 Mar 2005
Beauty Tips For Eyebrows
Your eyebrows add strength and definition to your face. Well groomed eyebrows enhance your beauty.
You should pluck eyebrows before bedtime so any redness will disappear overnight. In shaping your eyebrows use your facial features.
Use a pair of slant edge tweezers which grip hairs easily. Comb hairs one way and then the other to remove loose hairs.
You should pluck hairs between the brows and any stragglers. Never remove the hairs from above your eyebrows.
Pluck each hair individually close to the root. Work in the direction of the growth.
Always avoid over plucking. In defining your eyebrows choose a shade similar to your natural hair colour.
When using a pencil you should apply in small, feathered strokes. Starting at the inner corner work outwards.
Blend the colour with a brush. To tame stray hairs just use hair gel and comb through to neaten.
Lena
14 Mar 2005
Firmer Breasts
To firm breasts and tighten the skin, mix one teaspoon of vitamin E oil with one tablespoon of yogurt and an egg.
Massage this mixture into breasts and wear an old bra over the mixture for at least twenty minutes.
Rinse off with warm water.
Peggy
14 Mar 2005
Wrinkle Removal Recipe
Banana is wonderful as an anti-wrinkle treatment.
Mash 1/4 banana until very creamy. Spread all over face and leave for 15-20 minutes before rinsing off with warm water followed by a dash of cold.
Gently pat dry.
Sharon
14 Mar 2005
Combat Dark Under Eye Circles
Treatment for Dark Under Eye Circles
Grated potatoes can lighten under-eye circles. Potatoes contain an enzyme called catecholase, which is used in cosmetics as a human skin lightener.
Run one spud through your food processor and stuff the raw mash into a piece of cheesecloth.
Apply to the area directly beneath your eye — don’t let the potato juice come in contact with the eye itself — and leave for 15 to 20 minutes.
Wipe away the starchy residue
Doris
14 Mar 2005
Make Your Own Shea Butter Soap
By M.S. Beltran
At bath time, nothing is more luxurious or nurturing for your skin than an all-natural bar of Shea butter soap.
The Shea (Mangifolia) tree is a wild tree found in Western Africa that produces a tasty fruit. The fruit contains large seeds with oils that can be extracted to produce shea butter, a white to light yellowish color cream with a similar texture and consistency as butter.
Shea butter has been utilized by native Africans for more than a millennia. Shea butter contains unsaponifiable fats, which do not turn to soap and retain their moisturizing properties. It is completely non-toxic (in fact, unprocessed, it can be used in cooking) and gentle enough for use on the face, for babies or people with skin conditions. Shea butter is a natural moisturize, offers UV protection, and is even thought to help the skin make its own collagen by stimulating the tissue. It has been long used by healers for things like skin cracks and ulcers, small wounds, dry skin, eczema, dermatitis, and to sooth aching muscles. Because of the way shea butter restructures the skin, it has even been used to help with stretch marks, and in anti-aging formulas.
Because of the natural latex found in shea butter, people with latex allergies should do a test patch on the skin before using any shea butter products. Many people with latex allergies are not effected by shea butter, but some are, so it is better to be safe than sorry. But other than that, shea butter is a wonderful product to use on your skin. And the best way to take advantage of all-natural shea butter is to create your own home-made shea butter soap.
Shea butter is available in some craft stores that sell soap-making products, as well as many by soap and cosmetic supply companies. It is relatively inexpensive, as you can obtain an ounce for only a few dollars, and need only a couple of tablespoons in order to create two to four bars of soap. It also keeps well; refrigerated, it can last more than two years. But not all products are created equal. Many companies refine shea butter, or extract it chemically, which essentially takes out many of it’s beneficial properties. Other companies bleach it, or add coloring and fragrances. For the best product, try to obtain shea butter that is all-natural and without additives. The more pure the product that you work with is, the better your results will be.
In order to make your own shea butter soap, you will need:
* All-natural Castile (olive oil based) soap
* distilled water
* 2 tbsp all-natural, unprocessed shea butter
* 1 tbsp finely ground almonds (optional, but a nice addition for a gentle exfoliating soap with a nice scent)
* A grater
* A double boiler, or a small pot that can be placed inside of a bigger pot
* Small plastic food containers for molds
* A mixing spoon
* A drying rack
Begin by setting some tap water to boil in the double-broiler or big pot. Grate your castile soap until you have two cups full. Add this to the inner double-boiler, or the small pot, with ½ cup of distilled water. Melt it over medium high heat, stirring frequently until the soap is completely melted and stringy when you pull up the spoon.
Remove it from the heat. Add the shea butter and almonds, stirring gently until the mixture is well blended. Pour into small plastic food containers and let dry and harden for several hours. They should pop out when completely hard.
Place on the drying rack and allow soap to set for 3 weeks, turning regularly throughout the day to prevent the bars from warping. Then, simply wrap them in plastic wrap to preserve them, or use them in your next bath.
By M.S. Beltran
14 Mar 2005
Problem Hair
Is your hair dry and brittle? Is the color dull and lackluster? Forget expensive commercial products that can do more damage than good to your hair; treat your hair yourself, using all-natural ingredients found in your own kitchen.
DO-IT-YOURSELF CHOLESTEROL TREATMENT
Would you believe that most commercially bought cholesterol hair conditioners contain alcohol– the very thing that dries out hair? Instead, grab a cup full of mayonnaise, some plastic food wrap and throw a couple of towels in the drier on high.
Work the mayonnaise into your hair, starting by massaging it into the scalp and roots. Then draw it through to your ends until your hair is thoroughly coated. Pile the hair on top of your head. Take a couple of feet of saran wrap and wrap it around the top of your head to contain the mayo.
Take a pre-heated towel from the dryer and wrap it around your head over the saran wrap. The heat will aid with deep conditioning. After about 10 minutes, change to another heated towel and leave that on for another 10 minutes.
Remove the towel and plastic wrap and shampoo your hair as usual. Done once a month, this cholesterol treatment will keep your hair soft and shiny.
* Tip: if your hair ends are very damaged from chemical treatment, you can do this once a week. If your scalp is naturally oily, you might want to only add mayo to the hair ends for weekly treatments.
Natural Treatments For Problem Hair
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14 Mar 2005
Natural Beauty
Natural Beauty – Enhance The Looks You Have
Visualization
You need to visualize the specific changes if you truly want to change your look. What will any improvements you make look like? See yourself with a streamlined body, healthier hair, clearer skin, majestic posture. These changes are realistic and attainable. Stay away from goals you’ll never reach.
Don’t compare yourself with someone you’ve seen on the TV or movie screen or on the cover of a magazine. Accept your uniqueness and capitalize on it.
Mirrors Boost Attitude
The quickest attitude adjustment is through reflection. Women who have low self esteem often avoid mirrors like the plague. However, mirrors can become a big ally.
Mirrors can tell you how you’re progressing, in those little ways that may not be noticeable to the casual eye. It is the ultimate objective eye.
Do Everything Better
The way you use your beauty products will make all the difference in results.
For instance, try to duplicate what you see and feel your hair is shampooed at a salon. The product is always handled, never poured directly on hair.
Add a massage to your scalp when washing. While rinsing, lift your hair away from your scalp for about two minutes until it squeaks.
Discover The Virtues of Vanity
Confident women enjoy experimenting as a way of relieving stress and boost morale. Women who care about how they look are fascinating to watch, and teach us about taste and glamour. Vanity is a positive virtue, allowing us to fix our heads as well as our looks.
Look Pretty Amazing
Don’t worry about looking pretty. Look pretty amazing show the world you care about yourself. Real beauty celebrates individuality. Rather than running around looking for beauty in pricey external products, discover within yourself. Make the most of what you have. You’ll learn to like yourself and that will spark a light within.
Do One Thing For Yourself Everyday
Make yourself do it. It’s the ultimate act of self-respect. Soak in the bubble bath or read an inspiring book. These little pleasures allow you to feel special. You can fake it if you, until you actually feel deserving of it. Whatever you choose, follow the action by writing down waht you did and how it made you feel. Make it your own “attitude file”. Include stories, quotes from friends and photographs that have made you feel good about yourself.
Project Beauty
Feel good, feel pretty and that’s just what the world will see. If you feel ugly, that’s what the people will see. Try to look as good as you can. There are ways to live in beauty without being obsessive about it.
Find Supportive Friends
What people say, whether intentional or not, make us feel good or bad about ourselves. Look for people who make you feel good when you’re down. This person will give you compliment. If you’ve done something different or if you’re wearing something new, they will notice it. Keep this compliments and they will build your self esteem.
Listen To Your Inner Voice
Each of us has a voice inside our head that will give us advice. This is like a therapist. It will guide us in the right direction. It will calm us down, cheer us up and even help us figure out why we’re overeating or not bothering to iron our clothes. The problem is that we often don’t take time we need to hear this important information. Schedule some quiet time in a leisurely bath or walk, or even while putting on your makeup. Treat this intuition as an inner cheering section.
Take A Break
At least twice a day, set aside five minutes to recheck your make-up, hair, posture and clothing. No matter how impeccably you started out your day, a touch is both necessary and warranted. Take some deep breaths to renew and restore your appearance.
Sandy
Determine your size
13 Mar 2005
Lengths
Length refers to the length of the hair of the wig or extension when you receive it. Wigs and extensions may be cut to suit your personal taste, but it is best to start with a one that is closest to (or perhaps a bit longer than) the length you are looking for. The length categories listed below offer a general idea of the length of the hair products we carry. Many of our products include detailed length information on the different areas of the wig or extension. Read on for a brief description of each length we carry.
Chin-length
With a chin-length wig, the longest part of the wig will reach to about the chin.
Long
A long wig will flow past the shoulders and come to somewhere between just below the shoulders and the middle of the back. These length wigs are best for styling in ponytails, buns, french twists and other upswept styles. The wig detail page will give you the exact length for a specific wig.
Short
A short wig will stop above the chin. Short-style wigs range from very short boy-cuts to bobs and similar cuts. The wig detail page will give you the exact length for a specific wig.
Shoulder-length
A shoulder length wig will flow to just about the top of the shoulder or right to the shoulder. It is similar to the long length, but, generally, is not long enough for an upswept style.
Very Long
A very long wig will flow to the lower back or even longer. Very long wigs are generally too long for an upswept style. The wig detail page will give you the exact length for a specific wig.
Peggy
12 Mar 2005
How To Choose A Wig
One of the ways we recommend first-time wig shoppers choose a wig, is to make a selection that best complements their facial shape. While some facial shapes look good with any wig, most must be carefully matched to a wig. By following these simple guidelines below, you’ll be able to find the wig that brings out the true beauty in your face.
Please remember, these are merely general guidelines. They may or may not work for you depending on your features, coloring and personal style. As you become more comfortable with what works with your face, body and style, you’ll be able to make even better choices in wig and hair styles. As always, if you have any questions, feel free to contact us.
Oval Face
Oval shaped face is considered one of the most versatile because almost all wigs will look flattering. Any style, be it long, short, curly, or straight will look natural and pretty.
Round Face
Neat bobs are not recommended for those who have a round shaped face – it will only make your face look fuller. The goal is to slim your face. Some of the styles that you should look for are wigs that will frame your face and have height at the crown.
Suggestions: Beyonce, Vivica.
Square Face
If your face is square shaped, blunt-clipped bangs should be avoided because it will make your face look even more angular. If you want to wear bangs, try the wigs that have wispy or fringed bangs. If you don’t want to have bangs, a side part will suit you best instead of a center part. The key is to soften the edges of your face – this can be done best by wearing a style close to your face (i.e., soft layers in the front).
Heart-Shaped Face
Your shape is an upside down triangle, meaning there is very little of your face at the jaw line and more at the brow line. You want to look for a wig that doesn’t have height at the crown and the sides (area around your ears) but have fullness at the bottom. Chin length with bangs swept to the side will look perfect.
Oblong Face
Your shape is long and thin with a narrow chin. Avoid wigs that are long and hanging, or those that have a layered cut. It will only make your face seem lengthier. The aim is to add width to your face. Curly or wavy wigs will do just that. Hair length that reaches to the middle of your neck will look best on you.
Peggy
12 Mar 2005
Straight
Not much to say about this style except that it is straight. No curls, but if you wet it, it becomes wavy.
Wavy
A wavy wig has hair that has flowing waves in it. Not as curly as a curly wig, not as straight as a straight wig… wavy wigs tend to give a more natural and less heavily-styled look.
Curly
A curly look wig is usually a curly style wig designed to look wet, as if a sheen spray had been applied.
Sharon
Human or Synthetic
12 Mar 2005
Hair Types
Wigs are available in two different types of hair. A summary of these types and the advantages and disadvantages of each is listed below.
Human Hair
Human Hair is just that, 100% natural human hair. Care of a human hair wig is similar to that of your own hair. It can be styled, blow-dried, curled, straightened and more. Just as with human hair, once a human hair wig is washed, it will usually need to be re-styled. For complete care information, check out our online Wig InfoCenter. Human-hair wigs are generally more expensive than synthetic wigs.
Synthetic Hair
Synthetic hair wigs vary slightly from company to company. The fibers are designed to closely match the texture and consistency of natural human hair. Synthetic-hair wigs are generally less expensive than human-hair wigs.
IMPORTANT: No heat can be applied to synthetic hair wigs as this will damage the fibers. This includes curling irons and blow-driers. Heated steam curlers can be used, but only at a lower setting.
Peggy
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Mataining your wig as home
12 Mar 2005
Wig Care (Human Hair)
Our wigs made from human hair are of the highest quality and, when properly cared for, will give you plenty of enjoyable wear. Just follow the instructions below to get the maximum life-span and performance from your wig.
Washing
Human hair wigs should be washed in cool to luke-warm water with a mild shampoo and conditioner. (Using conditioner is highly recommended to reduce tangling.) Do not scrub the wig, just swish it from side to side and dunk it up and down. Wigs should be hung to dry. (Human hair wigs may also be set when wet. See Styling below.)
Once dry, spray sheen or detangling spray onto the wig and comb or brush depending on the type of wig you have (See Combing and Brushing below).
Setting
Human hair wigs can be set quite easily by following these instructions:
After washing, comb the hair (as instructed below) then set in rollers with rolling papers and setting lotion
Put the wig under a sitting hair drier on low heat for 40 to 50 minutes. If you do not have access to a sitting drier, the wig may be left on a wig stand or styrofoam head overnight or until completely dried.
Once dry, take out the rollers and style the wig as desired.
Styling
Hot tools may be used on human hair wigs. Hot blow driers, curling irons, flat irons and similar tools may be used in the same way as they would on your regular hair. Most wig caps are designed to be unaffected by heat. Additional care must be taken when styling a wig with a skin-like cap as the plastic in the cap material can melt under heat.
If wig hair gets frizzy, try any sheen spray or wig spray to calm the frizziness and then comb. If not, wash then set with setting lotion to get the frizziness out. When wigs are tangled, use any detangling or sheen spray then comb the hair.
Combing and Brushing
Comb or brush your wig using the following guidelines*:
Length Style Style With
Short Straight / Wavy Any combs or brushes
Short Curly Wide-toothed comb or brush out with fingers
Chin Length Straight Any combs or brushes
Chin Length Curly / Wavy Wide-toothed comb or brush out with fingers
Shoulder Length Straight Any combs or brushes
Shoulder Length Curly / Wavy Wide-toothed comb
Long / Very Long Straight / Wavy Wide-toothed comb
Long / Very Long Curly Brush out with fingers
* Important Note: Spiral curl and dreadlock wigs should not be combed or brushed in any way, as this will undo the curls/dreads.
Hair Products
Any hair products can be used on wigs, such as hair spray, mousse, gel, etc. since the wigs are washable and reusable.
Wig Storage
While wigs are not in use, they may be stored in a hair net and plastic bag or on a wig stand, such as styrofoam head.
When traveling, a styled wig may be carried in a wig box to prevent flattening.
Peggy
PMS
9 Mar 2005
PMS – Premenstrual Syndrome
Try These Herbs for Fertility, Periods, Libido, and Avoiding Conception
Homeopathy for PMS
10 Tips for Women With PMS
Menopause
Sage: More Than Poultry Stuffing!
The wise gardener who planted salvia officinalis has an abundance of sage for valuable medicinal use. Prepared as an infusion (1 teaspoon of the herb steeped 15 to 30 minutes in a covered cup of boiled water), sage has a multitude of applications.
Power Surges: Homeopathy and Menopause
As with many women’s health issues like pregnancy, labor and delivery, menopause is viewed by mainstream science as a disease, not a natural progression in a woman’s life. Science goes out of its way to suppress the symptoms of menopause.
Minerals Make the Difference
By 2015, half of the female population of the United States will be post-menopausal. But this group of post-menopausal women won’t be old fuddy-duddies with broken hips, heart attacks and failing memories. Women of today expect to emerge from menopause energetic, zesty and passionate!
You Must Be Pregnant, Right? Not Necessarily
Pregnant? Or not? You’re nauseous, fatigued and plagued by strange dreams. Or maybe you are experiencing strange cravings or food aversions. Your period might be late, spotty or seem completely absent.
Fertility
Try These Herbs for Fertility, Periods, Libido, and Avoiding Conception
For thousands of years, knowledge of herbs and wild plants that could increase fertility were the secrets of the village wise women. But after the holocaust against European wise women (the “burning times”) and the virtual extermination of Native American medicine women, this knowledge virtually disappeared.
How do we know if we’re ready to have another baby?
Pregnancy Nutrition Starts Before Conception!
There are certain things to ask yourself before considering having a child. Whether you discuss these matters with your husband or other partner in life, there are certainly things to consider.
Fertility – Natural Family Planning
Try These Herbs for Fertility, Periods, Libido, and Avoiding Conception
So you want to try natural family planning
Fertility awareness: We’ve come a long way since the rhythm method
Fertility After Childbirth: When You’re Ready but Your Body’s Not (and Vice Versa)
Red Light, Green Light: Let Your Computer Do the Analysis
Natural family planning: A man’s perspective
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Secrets that work!
21 Jan 2005
Eliminate Cellulite
It’s that lovely lumpy, dimpled, irregular fat that can be found on the hips, thighs & buttocks of 85% of women…skinny women, obese women, young women, and old women – as well as a small percentage of men. Cellulite can occur at any time from puberty through old age, and most of us are already well acquainted. Since cellulite is composed of fat it is the belief of many women that getting rid of that fat is the only way to make it disappear. You might be surprised to find that losing weight isn’t necessarily going to help you in the battle against cellulite.
Cellulite Theory 101
Here’s what the experts can agree on…there are two opposing forces that produce the final appearance of cellulite: weakened connective tissue pulling down and excess fat and fluids pushing up. However, the experts most always disagree on the root cause of this condition.
The first theory states that cellulite is the result of an estrogen imbalance. Estrogen, which happens to play a number of other roles in the body, is the hormone responsible for softening the fibrous tissues of the womb right before birth. It has the same effect on the connective tissue that anchors the skin to the muscle. This tissue forms the compartments that store fat directly under the skin. Weakened connective tissue from excess estrogen production pulls down on the skin and causes the stored fat to push up, resulting in the irregular appearance of cellulite. Now, it may be perfectly normal for women to have an excess amount of estrogen, but when this is complicated by bad circulation the result is an increased appearance of cellulite.
Poor circulation of the lymphatic system is at the root of the second theory concerning the cause of cellulite. The lymphatic system is responsible for transporting toxins found in the body to the liver and kidneys where they can be processed and excreted. When this route is slowed or halted excess toxins are deposited in the fatty tissues under the skin. A build up of these toxins results in a higher fluid density of the fatty tissue. This fluid blocks the reabsorption of fat into the blood stream to be used as energy.
Treatment
Getting rid of that cursed cellulite is an area with many self-proclaimed experts. Numerous health spas and beauty cream companies will preach the wondrous effects of herbal wraps and cold creams in treating cellulite. However, this condition can only be diminished by hormone therapy and proper exercise & nutrition.
Hormone therapy is very tricky because it can have a lot of complicated side effects. This is due to the fact that when you adjust the balance of a hormone to treat one symptom you may cause an imbalance of that hormone for another area. Estrogen plays hundreds of different roles in the body, thus the possibility of affecting hundreds of different functions. A skilled endocrinologist or gynecologist should be consulted when considering hormone therapy.
The best way to treat poor circulation of the lymph is with exercise and good nutritional habits. The average American diet is filled with junk food and complimented by a variety of fast food choices. These types of foods have little nutritional value and overload the liver and kidneys, becoming toxic waste. Excess waste slows down movement of the lymph causing a build up of waste materials as well as fat.
Color
Cut down on the fast food and visualize eating fresh fruits and vegetables! Make sure you are getting the proper nutrition you need every day to supplement your healthy eating, and consider supplementation with a daily multivitamin. LifeScript’s Scientific and Medical Advisory board can create your own Free Personalized Vitamin Profile for a great supplement program.
And we all know that exercise is part of a healthy lifestyle. Regular exercise increases the metabolism, helping your body to burn fat efficiently for fuel. Both aerobic and anaerobic exercises should be included in your daily routine. Aerobic exercises include activities such as walking, jogging and swimming, while anaerobic exercise refers to weight-training exercises that focus on the hips, butt & thighs, helping to convert fatty tissue to lean muscle.
Reducing the amount of fat in the body, increasing circulation of the lymph, smart supplementation and treating unbalanced estrogen levels can all contribute to helping you finally be free from the bonds of cellulite.
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Try these remedies
21 Jan 2005
Stains & Stinky Breath – How’s Your Smile?
Bad breath and discolored teeth are definitely not your friend! You can lose weight, get dressed up, do your makeup and hair all fancy, but once you open your mouth to smile or talk with someone, and your teeth are yellow and breath smells rank – your entire effort to look your best will be lost. Learning what stains your teeth and causes bad breath will help you to maintain your beautiful smile and always look your best.
Stained Teeth
Teeth stains can be extremely embarrassing, and also very hard to avoid. Stains can develop from two different factors, either intrinsic or extrinsic:
Intrinsic factors are those things that you don’t have total control over, such as: being administered tetracycline, an antibiotic that stains teeth either a mild yellow-orange color, or bluish gray in more extreme cases; or fluorosis, a condition which develops from a high fluoride concentration in drinking water, causing yellow discoloration of the teeth.
Extrinsic factors on the other hand, encompass things that you do have control of, such as: discoloration that results from foods, such as red wine, tea and coffee, or tobacco; if the food is also either highly acidic or the temperature changes from hot to cold, pores in the enamel open and close, trapping particles under the surface; poor brushing techniques or lack of proper care; and bacteria and fungus build up on the surface of the teeth that causes yellow and green stains.
So, what are your options for getting rid of stains?
Brushing your teeth at least once a day, or even better, after every time you eat, can help remove plaque and tartar buildup, and also cleanse food particles away.
If you are a frequent coffee or tea drinker, drink through a straw, which bypasses the front of the teeth.
Never swish staining drinks around in your mouth, and consider brushing your teeth after drinking them.
If your teeth are already stained and you’re looking for a brighter smile, you can seek assistance through your dentist for bleaching, micro-abrasion or veneer treatments.
Whiten your own teeth! Check out this week’s ‘A Beautiful You’ article: Achieving Pearly White for more information on how to do it yourself.
Bad Breath
Also a very embarrassing condition, foul smelling breath is no way to make friends! Bad breath can come from eating pungent foods, such as garlic or onions, drinking alcohol or smoking, which is usually a temporary situation. Bacteria can also multiply in the mouth, causing the bad odors. Odor-causing bacteria can hide in cavities and between teeth and result often from dry mouth, bacteria collection on the tongue, or even from a bacteria-infested toothbrush. Here’s how you can avoid these problems:
Avoid strong-smelling foods & drinks – it’s the easiest way to get around bad breath! Also, avoid sweet and sticky foods that cling to teeth and chomp on raw veggies that scrape away buildup while you chew.
Brush your teeth regularly, especially after eating pungent foods. Brush, rinse and floss every day, and don’t neglect your tongue. You can either brush it with your toothbrush, or buy a tongue scraper (not as scary as it sounds). And, sanitize your toothbrush regularly with hydrogen peroxide. Buy a new toothbrush at least every 3 months.
Make sure your mouth isn’t dry. Dry mouth can be the result of crash dieting, which produces a lack of saliva as little or no food is eaten, breathing through the mouth, and even some medications. Drink water regularly, which is good for you in more ways than one.
Chew on sugar-free gum, breath mints or one of these to freshen your breath: anise or fennel seeds, cloves, or parsley.
Caution: bad breath, also known as halitosis, can be an indicator of a more serious, chronic condition, such as gum disease or chronic sinus infections. If using these tips doesn’t get rid of your bad breath for good, it’s time to talk to your dentist or doctor about decay or disease.
Try these tricks of the trade
21 Jan 2005
Hair is a woman’s crowning beauty – long hair, short hair, curly hair or straight hair. It is usually the first thing that other people notice about you, and it’s also the most versatile beauty tool you have to spice up your looks. Thinning hair and hair loss can put a stop to great hair, and can change how you feel about yourself. These topics are also rarely talked about, which is surprising because of the fact that it’s a real issue that affects millions of women. There are many different things that can cause you to lose extreme amounts of hair, including diet quality, hair styling, chemicals, medications, illness and stress – but there’s also something you can do about it.
Diet Right for Healthy Hair
Nutrition is the first thing that should be examined when addressing thinning and balding hair. The nutrients we get from the foods we eat affect how well our hair is nourished as it is formed in the hair follicle. For a complete overview of the nutrients your hair needs, check out this week’s Science of Beauty article, Full Silky Hair.
Refine Your Beauty Routine
After you’ve decided whether your diet could use some fine tuning in order to nourish healthier hair, the next step in determining the cause of thinning and balding hair is how you handle your hair. Something as small as how much you brush your hair or how tight the bristles are on your comb or brush can affect hair loss. Use wide-toothed combs in place of tight-toothed combs and brushes, which make it more difficult to comb out wet or tangled hair. Don’t wash your hair too many times in a day, which can strip hair of its natural oils. Use a leave-in conditioner daily or deep condition once a week. Reduce how often you blow-dry and use hot curling and flat irons on your hair, as they also dry out hair and can cause lasting damage. Don’t put hair in tight braids, ponytails and buns too often, and try to rotate with loose flowing hair styles.
Be Careful with Chemicals
Overdoing chemical treatments, such as dying, bleaching, perming and straightening hair can damage both the hair and scalp, resulting in overworked, brittle, dry hair and flaky, itchy scalp. If you must chemically treat your hair, don’t leave chemical solutions on for too long – check the manufacturers suggested timing for home hair dyes, bleaches, straightening or perming products, and make sure you set a timer. Don’t use chemicals on hair too frequently. Leave a few months in between treatments, or longer if possible. Also, be aware of chlorine in pools and spas that can cause damage to hair. Wear a swimming cap or keep your head out of the water for better protection.
Look Closer at Medications
If you’re taking prescription medications, you might want to check out the contraindications on the label. Birth control pills and certain medications, such as those taken for arthritis, depression, heart disease, hypertension, or blood thinning can all produce hair loss. Check with your doctor or pharmacist about your options if you are experiencing hair loss while taking any of these medications.
Avoid Stress & Illness
Stress and illness can both contribute to hair thinning and hair loss, especially depending on the level of trauma experienced. Certain conditions, such as radiation therapy for cancer treatment, can actually halt hair growth and cause extreme hair loss, although hair will re-grow within a few months after treatment is stopped. Hormonal conditions, such as thyroid disease (whether hyper- or hypo-) can also be the cause of hair loss. If you aren’t already diagnosed with an illness that may be causing your hair loss, be sure to set up an appointment with your doctor to run different tests and get diagnosed. Being aware of how illness can affect your entire body, learning to handle stress, and keeping up with a proper diet will help your hair will grow back healthy.
With all of this advice comes a lot of responsibility, but in the end, it is ultimately you who has total and complete control over your hair, and thus how you feel about yourself. Keep yourself in good shape, and keep your hair in good shape – for a more beautiful you
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21 Jan 2005
Word Power
As one of thousands on a personal quest to be the best person, companion, friend, lover, colleague, etc., you are profoundly affected by the way you use and choose words.
From the early times of our childhood – when we grapple with our first words – to the days when words flow so freely onto a high school term paper or to our defense during an argument, the effect of our words on ourselves as well as others can contribute or detract from our overall health.
One such study on the effects of words can be found in a wonderful book written by Japanese scientist, Dr. Masaru Emoto entitled: The Hidden Messages in Water. In this book, Dr. Emoto reveals his personal, scientific study into the relationship between words, thoughts, music and pictures, and the health and harmony of water at the molecular level. According to Dr. Emoto’s findings, we start our lives as fetuses, existing as 99 percent water, and being born retaining 90 percent of that. At adulthood, we drop to 70 percent and can decline to 50 percent water at the time of our death. What does this mean and why is this important? Keep in mind that we, as humans, from a physical perspective exist mainly of water.
This realization propelled Dr. Emoto onto a path that found him conducting several experiments such as his infamous photography exhibit where he took several bottles of distilled water and taped different words to them. Leaving the words taped to the bottles and, at times, having the word read aloud to the water produced an amazing reaction in the water. After photographing molecules of the water, he discovered that positive words like “love” and “thank you” produced delicate and beautiful formations, while negative words like “you fool” and “I hate you” produced violent, scattered images.
The Hidden Messages in Water then continues on to reveal the effects different types of music, pollution and technology have on water as well. It’s a truly interesting perspective that will – should you take the time to indulge in this fascinating read – shed a whole new light on what it means to choose your words wisely.
As human beings who feel a great deal, it’s not always easy for us to censor ourselves in the heat of a moment or when physical pain is involved. But, here’s something to try the next time you are in a heated discussion with a loved one or involved in a meeting that causes you some stress:
If you feel the urge to blurt something out, pause and take a deep breath
In your mind, recite this simple thought: “I know that there is a wonderful being in each of us, and I want to see it in you and I want you to see it in me”
Take another deep breath
The above exercise was passed onto me by one of my mentors and continues to work wonders in my life today. From here, you can go a step further and examine any negative speech patterns you may have and develop alternative phrases that have a more positive impact. It may be as simple as not using the word “stupid” in reference to yourself or anyone around you. Keep in mind that covering your emotions with “happy” words or suppressing your feelings in any way will not make your troubles miraculously disappear, it’s more that doing little things to ease tension in yourself will – as Dr. Wayne Dyer, one of the masters of the intention behind words, so eloquently puts it – “change the way you look at things and the things you look at change.” All of which contribute, in the long run, to a healthier you.
E. Wayne Askew, PhD
17 Jan 2005
Bonding
Celebrities, like Garcelle Beauvais-Nilon, whose film and television roles call for many different head-turning styles may wear hair extensions to prevent damage and to take the styling pressure off their own locks. Bonding is a popular temporary weaving method and a great way to add volume or vibrant streaks of color to your natural hair. Tracks of hair are glued to the roots of your own hair with a special adhesive. To prevent damage to your natural hair, tracks shouldn’t be left in longer than a week or two. Experts recommend removing extensions carefully by soaking hair with a bond remover or oil sheen for a few minutes to prevent damage to your natural hair follicles. Prices can range from $10 to $15 per track.
Tracking
If you want a show-stopping new look, like City High’s Claudette Ortiz, check out the track method. First, natural tresses are braided around the head in concentric circles. The braids are sewn down, then extensions are sewn to the braids. Eight to fifteen tracks are needed for a full head. Gray recommends replacing this weave every two months or every time you get a relaxer, since it will loosen up as your hair grows out. Care for this style as you would your natural hair, washing at least once a week. Prices range from about $15 to $35 per track.
Fusion
If you’ve got a cute Toni Braxton look and want to go from a closely cropped cut to free-flowing tresses, the fusion method delivers one of the most versatile and believable weaves on the market. With this technique, a machine similar to a hot glue gun is used to adhere human hair extensions to individual strands of your natural hair (about the same size as a micro braid) for a truly authentic look. With a fusion weave, you can wash your hair every week and use products like gels and mousse to style. This is one of the most time-consuming (8 to 16 hours) and expensive methods (prices range from about $800 to $1,800).
Netting
If you want flowing locks like Trina and Kelly Price, ask your stylist about netting. This technique involves braiding natural tresses under a thin, breathable net that serves as a flat surface onto which stylists can weave extensions. Netting provides more flexibility than track placement because the stylist is not limited to sewing extensions to a braid. This style can last for up to three months if properly maintained. To care for your hair, wash it once a week and invest in a hooded hair dryer or heated cap for at-home maintenance. “You want to make sure your hair is completely dry so it will not mildew under the net,” advises hair experts from around the world. Prices range from $150 to $350.
Maintenance Tips
Don’t let your good weave go bad:
