Body Lotions - the Beauty of Nature

The history of body lotion dates back to the time of the world's first known civilization in Sumer. Sumerians, the first to record its use, created salves for the skin using pulverized plant matter, animal materials and mineral powders. When mixed with wine and tree oils, these preparations became the first documented skin care.

Lotions and oils were also embraced by the Ancient Egyptians. Cleopatra favored the use of olive and sesame oils, whereas other Egyptians applied ointments made of oil of ben (also known as the horseradish tree) and resinous myrrh. Ancient Egyptian parchments go so far as to describe various uses for body creams, and jars of beauty cream have been discovered in burial tombs. A mixture of olive oil, animal fats and a variety of spices accompanied the dead on their journey into the afterlife.
The Bible also mentions the use of oils, creating lotions from olive oils and precious spices.

 Lotions were prepared in order to relieve the body from the effects of the sun; the poor, rubbing their bodies down with grease or animal fats, while those who could afford it used delicately perfumed ointments. Beyond their uses in moisturizing the body, the Bible also speaks of "anointment." In Mark 3:16, oils were used to anoint for health; Luke 7:46 speaks of using oils as a form of hospitality; the books of Ruth, II Samuel and Isaiah all mark the use of oils as a preparation for social occasions; whereas in the books Luke and Acts, to "anoint" is in direct reference to an individual's receiving of the Holy Spirit. The Bible also tells us the well known story of Martha's sister Mary washing Jesus' feet with precious oil and then proceeding to dry them with her hair, only to be chastised by Judas for using such a costly infusion (the oil contained spikenard). Mary's act was one of humility, devotion and affection to her Lord and was accepted by Jesus as such.

The use of oils, particularly oil based lotions, has as much value today as it has throughout history. Compensation for the natural body oils we lose during the course of our daily rituals is essential. Not to mention that our skin requires assistance in battling the environmental damage it faces regularly. The optimum health of our body's largest organ relies on our own common sense to supplement its losses. When our skin loses its natural moisture, it fights back by producing more. Thus, for some this inner battle may lead to cosmetic problems such as enlarged pores and acne. Educating ourselves on how best to replenish and care for the skin we live in may just be some of the most important knowledge we ever require.

Most of us would never dream of leaving our stomachs empty and malnourished, but robbing our skin of moisture can also cause it to lose its natural ability to store water and nutrients. Therefore, it is our responsibility to take care that our bodies are given every chance to fight back by caring for them in the best way possible. To retain our skin's natural oil and moisture there are simple and effective precautions we can implement as a part of our daily routines.

 Think about it, something as easy as patting ourselves (rather than rubbing) dry after a shower affords thirsty skin added sustenance. Daily moisturizing takes it one step further by helping the skin to retain its proper pH value and to protect against irritation. Whereas, applying lotions and oils with a massaging technique boasts yet another benefit in toning the muscles. Let's fact it, giving attention to simple details makes a difference.


Certain oils provide their own specific benefits. Witch-hazel for example, is extremely beneficial for those suffering with skin problems. When diluted, witch-hazel extract alleviates skin inflammation and acne. A natural disinfectant, witch hazel enables slow healing pustules to heal. Its value as a natural astringent will also be seen in the reduction and constriction of pore size.


Those suffering from skin problems often tend to have oily skin caused by an imbalance of acid and alkaline. Unfortunately, the use of harsh astringents and cleansers cause the imbalance to escalate, and the skin loses its ability to protect itself. To protect oily skin, choose a lotion containing jojoba oil. Highly penetrative, jojoba oil won't clog your pores, but it will ease skin inflammation and encourage the normalization of skin flora helping it return to a balanced state. Jojoba oil's penetration abilities and thorough acceptance by the skin keep it from clogging the pores leaving the skin free from eruptions.


Some people believe that their normal skin requires less attention, but attentiveness keeps the skin healthy and soft to the touch. Nurturing your skin is important, and for those who have healthy skin it is only natural that they strive to keep it that way. Apricot-kernel oil is an excellent choice for normal skin and gifts the user with a fresh, glowing complexion. Recognized as one of the most delicate oils, apricot-kernel oil is not only a superb choice for use in homemade lotions but a supreme selection as a basic massage oil as well.


The following recipes for natural body lotions contain anhydrous lanolin. Anhydrous lanolin, as complicated as it sounds is simply lanolin minus its water content and is available for purchase in most health food stores. Also, lotions and oils should be warmed and mixed in a double boiler. Heating your mixtures on the stove top may alter fragrance or consistency, so if you don't own a double-boiler and plan to dabble in "natural beauty" it would be wise to invest in one. Below you will find the recipes for luxuriant body lotions that are easily prepared in the comfort of your own home.

Making a Natural Homemade Salon

 

Natural Homemade Beauty Products

 

There's only one way to be absolutely sure your skincare contains just natural ingredients. Make it yourself. It cruelty-free is an important factor when it comes to shopping, you will like these homemade alternatives which also come without suspect chemicals, alcohol or animal by-products. Make enough for about a month - store in glass jars in the fridge for up to four weeks.

Rice Scrub 

A scrub once a week does more than slough off dead skin cells. It activates cell renewal and helps improve skin texture. We have all heard the story of how rice farmers in Asia wash their hands with the water from washing rice. Indians use the water from boiling rice to soften skin. Rice bran contains phytic acid, which helps exfoliate skin. In the old days, pure turmeric was also used by Indians to curb excessive hair growth. Turmeric has antiseptic properties and this simple scrub can even be used on sensitive skin.

3 tablespoon rice flour, 1/2 tablespoon ground or grated turmeric, Water, 1/2 tablespoon of sandalwood powder for fragrance (optional). First mix the ingredients into a thick paste. Spread a plastic mat or tablecloth over your bed, sofa or on the floor, so you have somewhere to sit, Turmeric is hard to remove. Coat your body with oil (baby oil or massage oil) before smearing the paste all over - this prevents your skin turning yellow. Leave to dry, gently rub the paste all over your body to exfoliate before showering.

Balinese Scrub 

Ginger, known to improved blood circulation, is mixed with galangal (blue ginger) juice to even out skin pigmentation. Use once a week.

3 cloves, 3 tablespoons minced ginger, 1 teaspoon coriander seeds, 1 & 1/2 tablespoons rice flour,1/2 tablespoon ground turmeric, 1 tablespoon ground nutmeg, 4 thin slices galangal (blue ginger), 1-2 tablespoons water, 1 medium carrot grated.

First pound or grind all ingredients except carrot. Spread a plastic sheet where you intend to sit, or place a plastic stool in the bathroom and read while waiting for the paste to dry. Rub the paste all over the body and leave for 5-10 minutes. Rub the mixture off like you are scrubbing yourself. Then massage grated carrot on skin. Relax for 10 minutes and then shower.

Candlenut Scrub 

Candlenut, rich in natural calcium, folic acid and vitamin E is good for mature skin. Nut oil is believed to draw dirt from the pores.

6 candlenuts in powder, 4 slices galangal (blue ginger) ground, 2-3 tablespoons water.
Pound the ingredients together to make a thick smooth paste. Use your palms to rub the scrub all over your body. Rinse under the shower

Body Glow 

Sesame seeds are mentioned in the Egyptian semsent discovered by famous German Egyptologist, Ebers - the Ebers Papyrus is a 65-feet-long scroll listing ancient herbs and spices. An Assyrian myth talks about the gods drinking sesame wine the night before they created the earth. Native to the East Indies. Just a half cup of sesame seeds contain over three times the calcium of the same amount of whole milk. Sesame seeds. rich in vitamins A and E, and proteins are used to make cold pressed massage oil. some mention an old folk's remedy involving thoroughly chewing and swallowing one tablespoon of sesame seeds per day to regulate Periods.

1/4 cup white sesame seeds, 1/4 cup honey.
Mix both ingredients well in a clean bowl. Get a plastic sheet read for sitting on. Apply small amounts on your body and rub in a circular motion. Relax for an hour before rinsing off in shower
Soothing Honey Cucumber Facial

Feel cool as cucumber while skin is hydrated with honey in this easy-to-make facial treatment
1 tbsp honey, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1 cucumber, very thinly sliced.

Cleanse face with warm water. Mix honey with lemon juice. Smooth over face, avoiding eye area. Wipe away the honey with a warm towel and dry face. Place cucumber slices all over the face and relax for 30 minutes

Milk & Almond Cleanser 

To perk up skin before a party, use this stimulating cleanser to remove dead skin, oil and grime. Suitable for all skin types.

1 tablespoon dried milk powder, 1 tablespoons ground almond, 2 tablespoons honey, 2 tablespoons rose water (optional). Mix all the ingredients. Pat on skin from the base of the neck up to the hairline (avoiding eye area.) Massage gently onto skin and leave on for 10 minutes before washing off with warm water.

Egg Mask 

Suitable for oily skin, this nutrient and vitamin rich mask helps to even out skin tone and smoothen fine lines. 1 egg white beaten, 1 tsp lemon juice.
Mix and apply on face with a brush. Leave it on till it dries off. Rinse off. The remainder can be refrigerated.

Strawberry Moisturizer

3 ripe strawberries, 1 tablespoon water.

Mash a few ripe strawberries, squeeze through cheesecloth or cotton gauze. Dilute with a spoonful of water and spread the juice on cleaned face. Leave on for about 30 minutes before rinsing off.

Whiten Teeth

3 tablespoons bicarbonate of soda, 2 tablespoons fine sea salt.
Mix the two together and store in a jar. Shake a little on your hand, pick it up on the brush and brush teeth as usual. Not for people with sensitive teeth might abrasive.

Eye Treat

Calm puffy eyes and improved blood circulation by applying any of the following to the eyelids:

- used tea bag - squeeze out excess moisture and cool before applying
- thin slices of raw potato excellent for relieving slight puffiness.
- cucumber slices - cooling and soothing and also helps to keep wrinkles away.

Lip Gloss 

Aloe Vera leaf and gel contain over 100 ingredients, including essential vitamins and minerals, numerous enzymes, amino acids and phytonutrients.

Aloe Vera gel has astringent, antibiotic, pain inhibiting, cell growth stimulating and scar reduction properties. Aloe Vera Gel, Petroleum Jelly.

Mix 1 tablespoon of aloe vera gel - sliced a leaf and scrape out the gel, with 1 tablespoon petroleum jelly. Add a few drops of strawberry essential oil or other any fruity flavour. Transfer to a small container. Use as required.

Sugar Scrub 

The next time you run out of your favorite scrub facial scrub, make some with regular sugar 1/4 cup caster sugar, 2 tablespoons oil, 2 tablespoons milk.

Mix together into a smooth cream. Before bathing, massage the cream over the whole body with circular motions.

Hot oil hair treatment

If your hair is dry as straw, save money and treat it at home.

1 tablespoon soybean oil, 2 tablespoons castor oil.

Before washing hair mix the ingredients together in a small container. Next, warm the contents over low heat or place in a dish of hot water. Apply to hair and scalp and work right through to the hair tips. Wrap your head in a towel or wear a shower cap. Leave for 15 minutes. Wash hair as usual.

Men's Skin Care Essentials

Skin care is not just for women! Men are not comfortable talking about their skin care, but more and more are seeking skin care products including anti-aging products. Part of an overall healthy lifestyle includes good grooming and a daily skin care regimen. A recommended daily skin care regimen for men includes:

 • Shower using shower gel including moisturizers to prevent dry skin and prevent premature aging.

 • Wash your face but never with a bar soap which tends to dry the skin. Foaming cleansers and gels are your best choice. Use lukewarm water as hot or cold will leave skin dry and irritated.

 • You should tone your skin with a cotton pad and mild astringent. This helps to open up pores and absorb moisture.

 • Moisturize the skin with fragrance free and non-alcoholic products. Alcohol will dry the skin. • Once a week, exfoliate the skin with a gentle scrub removing dead skin cells

• Shave with shaving foams for your particular skin type: oily, normal, combination, or dry skin. Soothe the skin after shaving with a moisturizer or mild aftershave to prevent razor burn; an aloe vera gel works well after shaving. Can men use the same skin care products as women? The answer is no! A man's skin is unique and requires the use of special skin care products. There are several differences between men and women's skin:

 • Men have smaller oil glands ( sebaceous glands)

 • Men have oiler skin

• Men have thicker skin

 • Men have more fragile skin in the face area

 • Men have a higher percentage of skin cancers Because of the concerns of skin cancer and aging, men should always use protective sunscreen and avoid over exposure to the sun. Look for a sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher. Other important considerations for men's skin care include a balanced diet, plenty of rest, daily exercise, do not smoke or quit smoking, and drink plenty of water. Increasing your consumption of fruits and vegetables, which contain important anti-oxidants, is a good anti-aging treatment for the skin. You should also avoid fried food and use olive oil in cooking rather than butter. This will help your skin retain its elasticity.

 Several product lines are dedicated exclusively to the special needs of men's skin care and anti-aging skin care. When choosing skin care products look for vitamin or herb based products rather than those heavily perfumed and containing mostly alcohol. Some good choices include:

 • Lifelab 3040: A French men's skin care product line designed specifically for anti-aging products for men 30+

• Mary Kay Skin Management: This has always been thought of as a woman's product line but offer many excellent products for men's skin care

 • Biotherm Homme offers a full line of men's skin care products including several anti-aging products

 • Naturally Man is a product line offering all men's skin care basic products along with men's concealers which can help hide dark under-eye circles and reduce puffiness

• Anthony logistics for men offers several men's skin care products including anti-aging, skin care regimen, and shaving kits

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Living in Luxury: Getting the Spa Treatment at Home

If you don't have the time or money to make it to the spa every week or so (and most of us don't), you'll be happy to know that there are a number of spa treatments you can perform at home that are easy, affordable, and take as much time as you'd like. So, whether you're planning a night of relaxation all by yourself, or an evening of home spa treatments with friends, here are a few things you may want to try.  

At-home facials

A facial is one of the most popular spa treatments, but we don't always have time to keep our skin in the best condition. When you're giving yourself a facial at home, make sure that you thoroughly cleanse, tone and moisturize your face. Depending on your skin type, you'll want to select a cleanser that can easily remove dirt, oil, and makeup without stripping or over-drying your face. Toning your skin will help you to close the pores of your face again, so that dirt and toxins can not easily enter the skin. A good toner will also bring the skin back to its natural pH. Before you moisturize the skin, you may also want to use a mask to tighten the pores and give your skin extra clarity. Choose a moisturizer that is suitable for your skin type, and apply the moisturizer to your skin while it is still damp.

 Here are some all natural facial masks and cleansers you may want to try: Strawberry cleanser: For this facial, you'll need a ripe strawberry, about a tablespoon or so of sour cream, and a couple of teaspoons of olive oil. Mix the ingredients together and work the mixture gently on the face. Wash the strawberry cleanser with a loofah or damp washcloth.  

Herbal toner: Green tea leaves (about a tablespoon), strawberry tea leaves (about a tablespoon), distilled water (1 cup), chamomile tea leaves (about a tablespoon), aloe vera gel, apple cider vinegar and lemon juice (3 teaspoons each) make up this all-natural toner. Heat the water to boiling, then add tea leaves and steep. Then add aloe vera, vinegar, and lemon juice. You can apply the toner with cotton swabs or with your hands. This toner is good for about a week, and should be stored in the refrigerator for best results.  

Moisturizer: To make this moisturizer, you'll need 3 tablespoons each of jojoba oil and rose hips seed oil, 2 or 3 drops of rose essential oil, 2 or 3 drops of lavender oil, 2 drops of extra virgin olive oil, and 2 drops of Palma Rosa essential oil. Mix the oils together and don't rub directly into skin-let your skin naturally absorb the oil so that your pores won't become clogged. -before moisturizing or toning, you may also want to try an avocado mask to healthily moisturize your skin. Mash up half an avocado and spread over the face. You can place a warm towel over your face to open your pores, and be sure to rinse the avocado mask thoroughly before applying anything else to your face. See more info.

Manicures/Pedicures You may want to ask a friend to help with the manicure, since most people can paint the nails on one hand better than the other. But before you get to the nail polish, you should soak your feet or hands with sea salts or essential oils, and exfoliate the skin. A manicure kit will help to do the job, and you can find one at most drug stores for a few dollars. After soaking, shape your nails with a file, and buff them to add extra shine. Using lotions or creams after exfoliating will help to make your hands and feet extra soft. To maintain your pedicure, try using cocoa butter of Vaseline on your feet before bed, and covering your feet with thick socks overnight.

 Other manicuring and pedicuring tips include: -To moisturize your cuticles, try using a little olive or lavender oil to prevent dry skin and help to keep your polish on longer. -If your nails are slightly discolored, use a little lemon juice on a cotton ball to restore healthy nail color. -For exfoliating, you can use sea salt, bath salts, or even salt and sugar to smooth the skin and remove dead cells. You can also give your whole body a facial. Applying special moisturizing tips to your back, chest, and legs will give your whole body a healthy glow; this is especially a good idea for the summer months. You can use the avocado mask for your whole body for combination skin, or even a mixture of mashed strawberries and oatmeal for oily skin. You can also use a couple of drops of essential oils in your bathwater-citrus scents wake up the senses and energize the body, while oils like lavender and chamomile are best to use before going to bed, since they tend to relax the body and help induce sleep

Herbal Remedies: Olive Leaf Extract

Last winter, my husband caught some little bug that was flying around and just could not shake it. A friend showed up with a bottle of olive leaf extract, informing my husband that it would cure what ailed him. It did -- and quickly. (He was feeling much better by the very next day.) When the same bug decided to attack me, hubby said to take the olive leaf extract. I did, and it worked. I cannot say, however, that I was happy about the treatment.

Hubby assured me that it did not taste that bad. He was wrong! He then said that it tasted better in orange juice. He lied! Olive leaf extract is just nasty tasting. I keep something else to drink close at hand to chase the stuff down. It does work, though, and extremely well. Olive leaf was used by the ancient Egyptians as a medicinal herb and also as one of the herbs in the mummification process, since it was believed to be a sacred herb. In the early 1800s, olive leaf was used to treat fevers and much later to treat malaria. I am always hesitate to describe any herb as a panacea.

So many have been described thusly, only to be proven to not be as fabulous as the early claims. I would make an exception for olive leaf extract, however. When studies were begun in the mid-1990s, researchers discovered that olive leaf extract can boost the immune system and raise energy levels. There are numerous illnesses which can benefit from treatment with olive leaf extract. These include: the common cold, flu, pneumonia, tuberculosis, herpes I and II, hepatitis B, shingles, chronic fatigue, gonorrhea, malaria, diarrhea, and various infections; e.g., dental, urinary tract, surgical, and ear. In addition, there have been promising results in the treatment of HIV/AIDS. (Research is still being conducted in regard to this use of olive leaf extract.)

Olive leaf extract has also been shown to lower blood pressure and help to protect cardiovascular health. In fact, it has been shown to actually reverse arteriosclerosis when taken over a long period of time. In addition, it has anti-inflammatory properties, which may give hope to arthritis sufferers. As if all of this was not enough, olive leaf extract as even been shown to help to regulate blood sugar levels, making it a possible treatment for diabetes. There have been no adverse side effects associated with continued use of olive leaf extract.

Many doctors, however, recommend that you do take a break from it during the month. In other words, take a day or two off during the week and another full week off during each month. I only take it for 2-3 days as needed. (If you use the liquid extract instead of taking the pills, you will not be tempted to take it daily. Did I happen to mention that this stuff tastes absolutely horrible?) Of course, as with any herbal medication, you should consult your primary care physician and/or a certified herbalist. This is especially true if you wish to take olive leaf extract as a treatment for any serious condition, such as heart disease or diabetes. There are no known drug interactions; however, it is best to discuss any possible interactions with your physician first. Despite the normal precautions that should be taken and in spite of the taste, olive leaf extract is proving to be quite an effective herbal remedy. Now you understand why I have made the exception and call it a possible panacea.

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Mouth Sore Home Remedies

Save Money by Using Home Remedies

If you've ever had a mouth sore, you know how miserable they can be. We quickly realize how badly we need our mouths when they hurt miserably. Mouth sores are usually caused by canker sores. Canker sores are small ulcers in the lining of your mouth. You know, that area you can feel with your tongue; that of course, if the lining of your mouth. Mouth sores can be annoying as well as painful. They can cause discomfort while eating or drinking as well as sleeping. They can create burning sensations that are painful. Canker sores can happen to anyone regardless of age. Home remedies can quickly relieve the pain and frustrations for ailments.

Mouth Sore Home Remedies

 

Aloe Vera Water Remedy

What you need: Water Aloe Vera juice

Directions: This remedy sounds easy because it is. Take a glass of warm water and add aloe Vera juice generously. Drink this throughout the day to keep your mouth cleansed. Aloe Vera has healing properties and will slowly heal the lining of your mouth.  See this about aloe vera and gums

Mouth Sore Diet Foods to Eat:

 Veggies Juices Yogurt Easily digestible foods Steamed veggies Non spicy foods

Directions: When you have a mouth sore, the last thing you want to do is eat foods that will hurt you. Try to eat bland foods that aren't spicy. Stay away from coffee and drinks with caffeine. Drink at least eight glasses of water a day plus your Aloe Vera juice drink. Try to eat on the opposite side of your mouth, where the mouth sore isn't.  

Ice Remedy

What you need: Ice

 Directions: Take the ice and apply directly to where the mouth sore is. The ice will numb the pain associated with the mouth sore or canker sore. Baby Orajel Remedy What you need: Baby Orajel Directions: It sounds so easy but using your baby's Orajel can also help relieve the pain associated with mouth sores. Use a little on your canker sore just before going to bed to help you sleep soundly.  

Whiskey Remedy

What you need: Whiskey Water

Directions: Take a little whiskey and mix with a little water. Then rub the mixture directly on your canker sore. This can numb the pain to help you sleep at night.  

Mouthwash Remedy

 What you need: Mouthwash Q Tip

Directions: When you dip the q tip inside the mouthwash, be prepared for your mouth to be sore for a moment. Apply the wet q tip on your mouth sore for a minute. You are killing the bacteria on the sore so give it time to work. You will know the mouthwash is working because the pain will subside. Do this several times a day. Watch your canker sore leave completely.

Maalox and Benadryl Remedy

What you need: Maalox Benadryl

Directions: You want to create a 50/50 solution of the Maalox and Benadryl. Once you've created the mixture, you want to gargle for at least a minute. This mixture will not only reduce and relief the paint but will also get rid of the mouth sores completely.

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Hair Product Basics for Teens

If you're new to the hair product scene, it can get very confusing, and can eat right through your wallet. With hundreds of products to choose from, it's easy to be swallowed whole by the disappointing but most certainly diverse hair care. In this concise guide, we'll go over what you really need, what claims aren't true, and of course, the exceptions to every rule. To get the best, most flexible hair, you actually don't need one thousand hair products in your hair.

 After about four, they start to neutralize each other anyway, since most hair products have different ingredient structures. Here are the basic rules; moisture, organic ingredients, one stripping product, one deep treatment, and when it's okay to have exceptions.

Moisture

 You see these claims everywhere; products that say that they will make your hair shiny, natural, tousled, smooth, etc. The truth is all of these products are doing just one thing; moisturizing your hair. The even worse truth is the products that claim to make your hair something it's not-curly, straight, wavy (depending)-have figured out a clever rouse.

 Most of us smother our hair with products or don't put any products in our hair. This leaves our hair limp. Give your hair a short of moisture, and it'll be in its natural state, be it curly, wavy, or even sometimes straight (if it's a bundle of crazed frizz). This is a "miracle" to some people. But to those of us who can't get curly hair without an hour of using a curling iron, it never works. But companies decide that if you can satisfy enough people (when there's a pretty expensive price tag) it doesn't matter about the others that you disappoint.

Don't buy it. Simply buy products that claim to make your hair "moisturized". They contain more moisturizing ingredients than other more dishonest products.

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Organic Ingredients

 Though it may cost you an extra $1-$2, organic products don't require as much product for results as more chemically based products, as well as they heal your hair and provide doubled results. For instance, aloe vera in your hair product is pretty much all you need to heal your hair because it's moisturizing, but water-based, so it washes off when it weakens after a day and doesn't weight down on your brittle hair.

Green tea will make your hair shinier than many other harming but effective products. Besides from that point, some lines do have products whose results can compete with organic ingredients, but they are in general incredibly harming. For instance, Pantene, for its extra shiny formulas, coats your hair in wax. The wax really does make your hair shiny, but it weighs down and dries your hair, making it break off and fall out.

After awhile, you'll have thin, dead hair that you can't possibly style, but, hey, it's shiny! Experiment with different organic products, until you get whatever results you want out of your product. Some things that can be effectively tweaked by products are shine, anti-breakage, anti-frizz, and thermal recovery. Always read the back. If the product doesn't tell you why and how it works, and just tells you "it works", don't buy it.

Why You Need a Stripping Product

 Even super-organic products have some chemical products. They are necessary chemicals, to make sure your product doesn't decompose into a brown pudding in the bottle and doesn't smell like a boiled egg. These chemicals don't really harm your hair, but they can make styling harder and add up when you have a bunch of products in your hair.

So, it's time to discuss stripping products. Stripping products should be used every one to two-days with an organic deep conditioner because they are very drying but are necessary to keep your hair healthy and easy to style. Stripping products should only be in shampoo form, a stripping contradiction is a silly contradiction. Stripping products may advertise themselves, but usually they have to be researched into. Do some research, choose three candidates, and decide based on customer reviews and price.

Why You Need a Deep Treatment 

Even with your moisturizing products, and a good, cleaning shampoo these products aren't really going into heal your hair. It's like the difference between over the counter and prescribed medicine. A good deep conditioner usually can in the very tiny crevices of your hair to moisturize them and provides nutrients necessary to health and healing. These products aren't everyday things-rather, because they are so rich, they are biweekly ordeals.

Exceptions 

There are some exceptions, as with ever rule.

Expressive Styles 

Many teens like getting expressive with their hair. Let's face it; with conventional organic ingredients, you can't really make a crazy, voluminous hairstyles. So here are the three exceptions: hairspray, hair putty, and thermal protectors. I say hair putty if you're into spikes or super heights for your hair because hair clay, glue, or rock gel will never come out of your hair and instead damage it by all the ripping and tugging you'll have to do to ever get it out. It will take a super-drying strip to get that kind of product residue out of your hair even if you do manage to get the majority of it out. Putty is more liquid-based and so there's not much damage done. As for hairspray, to make sure you don't spend badly, don't buy "light hairsprays", rather go for either extra hold or freeze hairsprays. "Light hairsprays" hold your hair, sure, for five minutes.

It's basically a disgusting mix of water and residue. The residue holds your hair, but not for very long. With extra hold or freeze hairsprays, you get the same nasty residue along but with some constricting and binding ingredients so it actually does something and isn't anything that your stripping product can't get out. As for thermal protectors, this is all you need in your hair when using blow-dryers, curling irons, and straightening irons. Get a protector that claims to protect and "tame flyaways" and /or "fights frizz". That will be all you literally need when using heat to style your hair.

 ..And for the rest 

Here's the rule for products that I haven't talked about, if you think you really need them. Make sure it's natural, and if you can't find it in organic or natural form, read through the ingredients. If there are more than 10 ingredients you have to sound out, forget it. Ask yourself, also, if the claim they make could potentially destroy your hair. Only you can judge this for yourself. Use common sense. If the bottle says just a drop of this product applied with a comb makes you hair stand up straight, it can't possibly be good for it. Be skeptical. Your hair will thank you (well not literally, of course.)

Curing Acne from the Inside Out

For years I struggled with a constant, oppressive case of acne. Not only did I have extremely oily skin, I had a near even distribution of pimples dotting my face. From my chin to my cheeks to my nose to my forehead I had stubborn little bumps that came and went on an individual basis but never seemed to want to make their final exodus. I tried almost everything to combat the spots. I used harsh face washes and rough scrubs, I exfoliated my skin constantly, I used products with salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide that lead it to peel and burn horribly. Occasionally these things worked temporarily but none were giving me the results I truly desired: clear, soft, glowing, healthy skin. Frustrated I began to research incessantly for other possible cures. Then I came across the precious world of holistic remedies and natural skin treatments.

I realized that my problem was an internal one merely reflecting itself on my poor, abused face. Over the course of a few years I tried and tested different ideas and remedies with gradual progress in the reduction of my acne. Eventually I was hitting the nail on the head and now today I have virtually clear skin save for the occasional minor bump here and there. Of course I have to deal with the fading of the marks that the condition left on my face but I also learned how to help that heal a little faster as well.

 Seeing so many people suffer with acne (including myself) has inspired me to bring to you a compilation of natural, healthy tips and remedies so you can feel good about your appearance not only once again but once and for all.

 Let's start with diet. If you have acne, chances are you might not have the healthiest diet. It might not be complete trash, but their very well may be a few things that are leading you to ultimately break out. Personally, I found that really cutting down on (even cutting out) refined sugar, processed grains, and dairy made a significant improvement in my skin. Why? Because I realized I very well might be having issues with my blood sugar and insulin that were leading me to break out. I ate lots of wheat products (bread, pasta, bagels, doughnuts, cookies, cake), sugary foods (candy, very sweet fruits, soda, juice, etc) and dairy (ice cream, yogurt and processed cheese). I'm sure I also ate plenty of trans fats within all of those processed foods. I didn't eat too many vegetables and probably not enough quality fats and protein. Those sugary, refined foods were causing massive spikes in my blood sugar which ultimately were messing with my hormones, making my skin oily and causing me to produce thick, skin clogging sebum. Instead of eating those foods I switched to foods that wouldn't throw my body out of wack. Here are some general dietary guidelines I began to follow:

1) I made sure to get plenty of quality proteins including eggs (until I became vegan), tofu, soy yogurt, tempeh, all kinds of beans, lentils, pumpkin seeds, hemp, sunflower seeds, natural peanut butter, and almonds.

2) I really cut back on wheat (even whole wheat) and now get my carbohydrates from low glycemic sou,rces such sweet potatoes, beans, starchy veggies, soy yogurt, and low sugar fruits.

3) I added necessary healthy fats like extra virgin olive oil, ground flaxseed, coconut oil, nuts, seeds, avocados and even some very dark chocolate. I no longer get urges to binge on sugar as I did before because my blood sugar is stable and I don't suffer the horrible breakouts as a result. So, basically, if you are desperate to see some improvement in the appearance of your skin, I would suggest dramatically shifting your diet to a low glycemic whole foods plan for a week or two and note (and enjoy) the changes you observe. Okay, so I've described how you should makeover your diet as a whole. Now I'm going to let you know about some specific dietary additions that really helped not only my acne disappear but my face to heal from the ravages of perpetual breakouts.

1) First, make sure you are getting plenty of vitamin A in your diet. You can get this from red palm oil (I use Jungle Products Extra Virgin Red Palm Oil), pumpkin, sweet potatoes, carrots, red bell peppers, leafy greens such as spinach, kale, turnip greens, and romaine, broccoli, avocados, and cayenne pepper. Vitamin A is crucial for healing your skin and giving you a healthy glow.

2) Another vitamin that is crucial for skin healing is vitamin C which can be found in red bell peppers, broccoli, strawberries, kiwi, oranges, cauliflower and kale. I'd recommend getting it from vegetables instead of fruits simply because they are lower in sugar but a small intake of fruit should be fine unless you experience problems with it.

3) Yet another essential vitamin is vitamin E. Find this in sunflower seeds, red palm oil, avocados, almonds, and olives.

4) And don't forget zinc. Some research suggests that zinc deficiencies can actually cause acne and if you subsist on a processed, refined diet chances are you don't have enough zinc in your system. You can get zinc from meat (choose organic), pumpkin seeds, yogurt and mushrooms. I would highly recommend a zinc supplement of at least 15 to 20 mg a day as well.

5) Now get some healthy probiotic, cultured and/or fermented foods in your diet. The healthy bacteria found in these foods will really revitalize your digestion and boost your immune system helping to balance your entire body. I found that eating plenty of plain yogurt (I chose soy yogurt) really helped my digestion. If possible, buy organic and avoid yogurt with loads of sugar. Make sure it has live, active cultures in it. Other good picks for good bacteria are tempeh (a fermented soybean cake), miso (a fermented soybean paste), kombucha (a cultured tea), kefir, kimchi and even saurkraut if it's homemade.

6) Finally, drink your tea. Indulge yourself in as much green tea, spearmint tea and chamomile tea (as long as its plain) as you want. All three have been shown to improve acne in sufferers. You can even rub a used tea bag on your skin for a nice toning and cooling effect. Now that your diet has been transformed, you should see steady improvements in your skin as time progresses. However, there are a few additional natural remedies you can utilize to further help your skin.

1) First, when cleaning your face, use only all natural oil based soaps. I like Dr. Bronner's soaps. Oil based soaps will clean your face gently without robbing it of the moisture it needs. I saw dramatic improvement in the texture and softness of my skin with the addition of oil based soaps. To wash your face, just make sure you use cold water (hot water dries out the skin) and a clean wet washcloth and then simply rub the lathered up wash cloth in a gentle, circular motion until you get the dirt and dead skin off. Follow up with a rinse of cold water. I noticed that switching from hot water to cold water made my pores tighter, my skin smoother and my complexion a lot brighter because the cold water hydrates your skin and boosts the circulation. See aloe vera and acne tips too

2) Utilize the power of raw aloe vera gel. Check your local health food store, gardening center or even a larger supermarket like Shop Rite or Weis for whole, raw aloe vera leaves. These amazing plants are wonderful for toning, calming and healing the skin as well as tightening your pores. After you clean your face, simple cut open the aloe vera leaf, scrape out some of the raw gel and spread a thin layer over your entire face. Leave it on until it completely dries and you will notice a more radiant, calm and glowing complexion almost immediately! It also tones the skin wonderfully and prevents it from getting super oily later in the day.

3) Take advantage of supplements. In addition to zinc, there are a myriad of supplements you can take to improve the condition of your skin. Chromium is one that helps control blood sugar levels thus preventing acne. A good amount to take can range from 200 to 500 mcg a day. MSM, which is basically sulfur, is also wonderful for rebuilding your cells. Sulfur, although naturally abundant in raw foods, is lost in much of the processing/cooking that many foods go through so supplementing is never a bad idea. Another supplement you should consider adding is vitamin C. Vitamin C builds collagen, fights free radicals and is crucial for healing scars and maintaining bright healthy skin. Now, you can vitamin C in your diet pretty easily, but I found that supplementing with an additional 500 to 1000 mg a day made my skin heal a lot faster.

4) Take your flax (or stir it into water, smoothies, yogurt, salads, etc). Flax regulates your hormones, keeps you regular with fiber and contains essential fatty acids crucial to skin health. I take about four tablespoons a day either by itself, in smoothies or stirred into soy yogurt. The results? Softer skin and even a better mood!

5) Enjoy some unsweetened cocoa powder. To use this mix it into smoothies, or make a hot cocoa drink with plain soymilk and a little stevia to sweeten. Cocoa has been shown to improve blood flow to the skin. You don't need anything expensive. Hershey's brand will do. Okay, well there you have it. I have given you a detailed idea of various natural solutions you can employ if clearer skin is your goal. Try these tips out and not only will you skin improve but chances are so will your energy levels, digestion and mood!

Natural Home Remedies You Should Know

There are many natural remedies among us, many in your own cupboard. Through tradition and folklore, these remedies have been handed down and precede over-the-counter or prescription medications. Take a look at a few natural remedies for common minor health afflictions.

 Heartburn- Try eating a piece of raw potato. One tablespoon of apple cider vinegar and one tablespoon of honey in a cup of warm water will ease it in no time. Eat six almonds, chewing each thirty times for relief, too! . See Aloe as well like a remedy

Insect bites- A slice of raw onion, wet salt, toothpaste and horseradish root all alleviate the sting of insect bites. As well as wet tobacco, diluted ammonia and Vitamin E oil. Armpit Odor- Rub a potato or Zinc under your arms after cleaning your pits to combat the smell. Turnip juice is another great aid.

Bruises- Apply a cold pack or ice and hold for 20 minutes. Take Vitamin C to toughen the capillaries and lessen bruising. The inside of a banana peel can reduce discoloration and assist in healing.

Burns- Aloe Vera, preferably fresh from the plant, can be a great healing ointment. Apple butter can be used as a salve. Did you know that garlic oil can ease the pain of a burn? Break open a capsule and apply to burn. See this

Sore Throat- Drink one teaspoon of cream of tartar with half cup of pineapple juice. Try gargling with one teaspoon of sage and one cup of boiling water morning and night for comfort. Inhale the steam of hot vinegar, another great alternative.

Diarrhea- Place a red hot fireplace poker into a cup of boiled milk, the poker will charge the milk with iron, which treats diarrhea. Raspberry-leaf tea is another active aid. Press your navel with your thumb to encourage movement. These are a few time-honored Old Wives tales and not based on medical expertise. You should always seek medical attention before trying any natural remedy or self-treatment. Here's to good health!.More info

Beauty Tips for Traveling Women

Staying beautiful while traveling has special challenges. Beauty rituals that work wonderfully at home, may not work as well in a different climate. In addition, travelers just don't have the same amount of time to dedicate to beauty when traveling, sightseeing and packing and unpacking suitcases. Speaking of packing, lighten up by using travel size products. When packing lotions, shampoos and other liquid based products, pack them in zip lock bags and seal so they won't leak and spill into clothing.

Minimize the amount of products you bring by lightening up on the skin and hair routine. Let your natural beauty shine through by using sheer products. Instead of bringing a whole arsenal of makeup products, select a small palette of neutral shades that can work for the entire trip. Department stores often have free gifts with purchase on cosmetics that contain small tubes of mascara, eye shadow, and even small bottles of makeup. Small makeup kits, such as these, are ideal for traveling. Instead of bringing a whole bottle of cologne, ask for a perfume sample to travel with. Some simple changes in beauty routines can help women to weather the changes in weather and routine beautifully.

 Warm Weather Tips Work with hair's natural texture: High humidity can wreck havoc on the hair, making it tend toward frizzes. Curly or wavy hair probably will not hold a straightened style in steamy weather. Before traveling, get a haircut that works well with the natural texture of hair, with the goal of hair that looks great naturally.. If recreation activities include swimming and getting wet, this will save a lot of time on hair styling. Get a wash and wear hair style and concentrate upon enjoying new adventures instead of worrying about hair. Consider wearing hair up.

Wearing hair up and off the neck is cool and elegant looking. Apply sunscreen religiously. You may be amazed at how fast a sunburn occurs in a warm sunny climate. Instead of having to deal with the pain for sunburn while on vacation, be proactive about applying sunblock and sunscreen frequently.

 Bring a tube or two of Aloe Vera Gel, which can be purchased at the drugstore before leaving home. Aloe Vera is terrific to apply at night to help skin heal from errant rays while sleeping. Purchase lighter products for summer weather: The creamy moisturizer and makeup that works so well at home, may feel greasy and slide off the face in a warmer climate. Find skincare products that are geared for summer. Lipstick: Instead of a heavy lipstick, wear a sheer lipgloss SPF. There are several good brands of lipgloss that give sheer color without being heavy. Use blotting papers to fix quick shine fixes.

Cool Weather Tips Moisturize: Cool dry climates, such as mountain ranges, can dehydrate the skin and cause chapping. Before the trip, exfoliate and smooth skin. A sugar scrub in the shower or bath will slough off dead skin cells and make the skin more receptive to a good moisturizer. Follow the sugar scrub with a rich application of body butter or olive oil. Take care of feet. Smooth the skin of the feet with pumice stone to keep them soft.

Massage a thick moisturizer, cream, oil, or petroleum jelly on the feet, and put on thick socks before bed. Feet may get overworked while traveling, so pamper them.

 Battle chapped lips: Apply lip balm with SPF frequently. Dry facial skin; Bring a moisturizing mask to apply to the face during the trip. Wear a rich moisturizer with SPF during the day, when exposed to the elements.

Condition hair: Cool dry climates can cause hair to be flyaway. Apply a moisturizing balm or conditioner, especially to the hair's ends. Before the trip, give your hair a deep moisturizing, or hot oil treatment. While traveling and seeing the world, cut back on the amount of time spent on your beauty routine and enjoy focusing on the new sights surrounding you. Being lively, curious and interested in the world around you is the best beauty advice of all.

Beautiful Summer Feet

Natural Treatments for Dry, Cracked Feet

Like most women, I want my feet to look attractive in summer footwear, but I don't want to break the bank going to the spa every week for a pedicure. There are some really great treatments for dry feet that are all natural and will leave your feet soft and beautiful.

The first thing you must remember when trying to turn dry feet into delectable feet is fluids. Drinking lots of water (6-8 8oz glasses a day or more) will go a long way towards helping to achieve the feet you long for. Diet is also important.

 Most times, especially dry, cracked heals are caused by a deficiency in essential vitamins, minerals and omega-3 fatty acids. Increasing these things in your diet, and by taking supplements, you can help repair the damage that has been done to your feet. Ok, so now you have increased your fluid intake and improved your diet. What else can you do to naturally repair damaged feet?

 Banana Treatment : Mash up a couple of ripe bananas and coat the bottom of your feet with the pulp. Put your feet up and relax for 10 or 15 minutes, then wash well, first with hot water, then with cold water. , as this soothes and relaxes the feet.

 Olive Oil: Olive oil is one of those remedies for dry feet that you will see the results of quickly. After your shower in the evening, when your feet are moist, massage them with olive oil, making sure to coat them well. Put on a pair of cotton socks that you will wear all night while you sleep. When you awaken in the morning, your feet will be noticeably softer.

Lemon: Again after your shower, or a nice relaxing soak in warm water mixed with Epsom salts, take the juice of one lemon, mixed with Vaseline and apply liberally to your feet. Once again, put on a pair of cotton socks and let the lemon and Vaseline do their magic while you sleep.

Honey: Another great natural remedy for dry feet is a honey bath. With one cup of honey in a gallon of warm water, soak your feet for around 15 minutes. Gently pat dry. Honey has other natural properties that will help to reduce stress and clean out any cuts or cracks, as it is also a natural antiseptic.

Rose Water: Our mothers and grandmothers used rose water for many beauty treatments. When mixed with glycerin, and applied liberally every night before bed (don't forget to put on your socks), you will see a major improvement in the condition of your feet in about 2 weeks.

 Aloe Vera: Either pure Aloe Vera gel or a heavy moisturizing cream with Aloe Vera in it is another great natural remedy for dry feet. The healing properties of the aloe will have your feet feeling softer and sexier in no time. Pumice Stones: Every other day, while you are in the shower, use a pumice stone on your feet. Pay particular attention to the heels and balls of your feet, as these are the areas that tend to be the most in need of attention. I hope that you have learned a little about natural home remedies for dry feet. Turning scratchy feet into soft, summer feet doesn't have to cost you a fortune.
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Why You Should Grow Your Own Aloe Vera

Vera Beauty products contain aloe vera, but aloe vera in your smoothie? Aloe vera has many health and beauty benefits for the whole body, beyond just the commonly known ones. Read this

 Place a plant on your windowsill and you'll have your own first aid kit, beauty solution, and health food all in one. Here are a couple uses of fresh aloe vera:

 1. Spread it on your skin. Break off the tip of an aloe leaf and spread the clear gel all over. The gel is great for soothing cuts and scrapes and sunburned skin. It can also be used to calm the burning and itching from poison ivy and other rashes. While you can get aloe vera gel in a tube, nothing compares to the gel straight from the leaf when it comes to freshness and potency. Aloe vera has also long been used as a beauty solution. It can also be used against ultraviolet radiation and as a preventive measure against acne.

 2. Put it in your drink. Aloe vera has long been known for its health benefits for the digestive system and is sometimes eaten cooked in Asian countries or mixed into beverages. It has been reported to soothe irritable bowel syndrome as well as helping ease other digestive inconsistencies. One easy way to try it is to put a chunk of the raw, clear gel into a glass of fruit juice. This can be orange juice, grape juice, or any other juice you prefer. Cheers to good health! You might have heard of aloe vera being a laxative, but it is only the yellow inner lining of the leaf that contains laxative properties. Eating the clear gel from the inside should not have negative effects.

3. Eat it. In some Asian countries, aloe vera is eaten cooked as a vegetable. It has many vitamins and is good for your health. You can try cooked aloe vera yourself by taking several large leaves and peeling off all the skin until only the clear gel remains. Chop the gel into bite-sized segments and sauté gently with a little oil. Season it to your taste.

4. Grow for decoration. Once you get it going under the right conditions, aloe vera will grow and grow and just keep growing. Keep it indoors if you live in a climate with harsh winters, and it will thrive and expand into a giant ornamental beauty. As long as you give it a big enough pot, the plant will continue to grow. It flowers, too, but the main show is the long, fleshy arms that can grow several feet long! No need to buy a big plant. You can start with a small one, and before you know it you'll have more aloe vera than you can eat and use!

5 Good reasons Really like Aloe Vera

Not Your Usual Garden Plant

As soon as persons notice the word aloe vera, they are able to only visualize of wonderful hair as well as sunburn. There may be more to this awesome plant that is employed to  moisturize and also defend your skin. Since 3,500 years, our forefathers have acknowledged the healing powers of aloe vera. A number  of our beauty and health solutions right now contain aloe in its component due to the fact it is a incredibly versatile vegetable that stimulates healing. Mainly recognized for its relevant application, aloe vera helps make an ideal associate for your skin, relaxing you from skin injuries that could usually happen when least expected.

While aloe vera really should not be employed as an antiseptic, it is still a wonderful first aid plant that stops bleeding from minor cuts and bruises. It can also quicken the healing of the skin when these happen. If you're not into aloe vera, having a plant in your home will be beneficial.

Other than, it is not hard  to help keep.

Thinking about You Work with Aloe Vera?

 1. Ideal for for regenerating your your skin layer through  the cellular levels. Almost all aloe vera are usually non-toxic, also in gel form, which might be  risk-free for children to use. From head to toe, aloe vera can help prevent skin diseases and injuries, leaving your skin feeling young and rejuvenated.

 2. Aloe vera can make  an ideal dental health by clean-up your teeth and also gums, making your breath feeling fresh.

3. Painful muscular tissues and joint pains find their ease with aloe vera since it can easily pass through far into the muscle groups. Not simply really feel pain relief, butyou will probably help support your joint health.

 4. Aloe vera is rich in free radical-fighting antioxidant that makes you feeling truly healthy from inside-out.

5. Ingesting aloe vera drink is wonderful for your immune system. A lot of people ignore that their digestive system participate in an essential function in their health and aloe vera makes sure that you have right digestion, where nutrients will be absorbed to the max. Because of this, aloe vera juice can often be used to deal with constipation. If you are using aloe vera to cleanse your body of toxins, don't mix it with diuretics, steroids, heart medications, or licorice roots. Read this

Having a clean colon provides you with more energy to waste daily. Aloe vera contains more than 200 vitamins and minerals that will keep you healthy and fit each day. In fact, a study made at the University of Texas Health Science Center shows that rats live longer life spans on an aloe diet. Recently, many positive health benefits are brought about with the use of aloe vera, which may be further studied and tested to prove these claims.

It's not bad to have an aloe vera plant at your home, just make sure it is the safe variety. When you needed the aloe gel immediately, all you have to do is remove near the base and split it to open. You can scoop up the gel or apply the plant directly on your skin. You can even refrigerate it for another use. There's no reason why you cannot be healthy naturally and let these benefits help you in your choices.