Lip Care Tips

As summer turns into fall and temperatures begin to get cooler many people start experiencing issues with chapped or dry lips.

Unlike skin on the rest of the body, the lips do not have a natural protective barrier, making them easily susceptible to irritation and damage. The lips are constantly exposed to moisture and potential irritants in the form of saliva, food and drinks, pollutants, and the effects of cold, windy weather – all of which can cause some serious lip issues.

Even though the lips need as much (and perhaps more) care as our skin they are often overlooked. Here are 7 simple ways to keep your lips healthy.

Licking Your Lips

Every time the tongue covers the lips they become coated with saliva, which tends to evaporate quickly. Thus constant lip licking leads to constant evaporation, resulting in dryness and irritation. To make things worse, many of the natural enzymes in saliva that break up food can be harsh on the lips.

Mouth Breathing

Open mouth breathing streams dry air over the lips each time you breathe in and out. This exposure sucks the moisture out of the lips. Simply inhaling and exhaling through the nose will shield the lips from this dry airflow.

Lip Sharing

Kissing or sharing drinks or utensils with friends and family can expose your lips to viruses, bacteria, and fungi; all of which can enter lips though cracks and irritate the area. So be careful with your lips.

Healthy Diet

Good lip health depends on a steady intake of vitamins and minerals, so stick to healthy, nutrient-dense foods like fresh fruits and vegetables. Vitamin B and vitamin E are especially important for healthy lips and skin. Skin Cuticles Antioxidant Lip Repair is a great product that uses a blend of vitamins and antioxidants to keep the lips healthy.

Good Lip Balm

Lip balm seals in moisture while shielding the lips from external irritants. Go for a lip balm with a base of beeswax, petroleum jelly or paraffin as they will not evaporate rapidly like thinner lip balms or lip gloss. Look out for ingredients like salicylic acid, menthol, camphor, and added fragrance, all of which can be drying.

If your lips are already irritated look for a product containing aloe Vera, a great natural way to heal damaged, chopped, or sun burnt lips. While you’re at it go for a product that offers SPF protection and shield your lips from the harmful rays of the sun.

Finally, it’s recommended to gently exfoliate the lips weekly. This allows a lip balm to better penetrate the lips and provide enhanced protection.

Lip Workout

Are you after plumper and fuller lips but want to steer away from cosmetic procedures? Instead of fillers or lip implants there is something you can do daily to enhance your lips:

Take a few minutes daily to flex your lips in all directions: pucker up, lay them flat, smile, and stretch your mouth. These simple movements can increase blood circulation, giving the lips a plumper and fuller appearance.

See your doctor

If you experience prolonged and persistent dryness, irritation, itchiness, or pain in the lips it may be time to see a dermatologist. Many lip issues can be caused by infection or poor nutrition and will not heal on their own. A physician can determine the root cause of the issue and create a treatment plan.

Nail Care Tips For Men

 

Men are generally more reluctant than women to spend money on quality grooming products. This is probably best evidenced by the lotions and potions that women have purchased over the last few hundred years. Some may argue that there is nothing in these treatments, but he is a foolish person to take that view. There must be something more that men can do regularly to set a better example in the grooming stakes.

Here are some guidelines that you can concentrate on finger nail care.

• Clean finger nails are essential for the modern man. If you work in an occupation that regularly gets the nails dirty, start a process, if you have not already of scrubbing the nails clean every day. Some men care for their nails during their shower time - a reasonable option if there is not a water shortage, but a better way of cleaning the nails is to clean them immediately before or after the shower. Use a fingernail brush - they are available from health, chemist and pharmacy shops.

• The trimming and care of finger nails is next. Weekly trimming of nails with a nail clipper or scissors is usually sufficient. The nails should never be more than one eight of an inch (or 3 mm) in length. Trim the tips of the nails and part of the sides, but not as far as the tips. File the edges of the nail with an emery board or file until they are at a comfortable length. Cuticles are the outermost layer of skin that protrudes above the nail surface and when the nail grows the cuticles dry out and become ragged. They should not be removed, but rather pushed back, using a few drops of good cuticle oil and a cotton bud to do the pushing towards the uppermost finger joint. The care for the cuticles would be done whenever necessary - it is different for each man. This process may save some pain at a later time.

If the cuticle stuff is too much, at least do the trimming and filing. It's a start but remember do not bight your nails.

These treatments can be obtained from any respectable men's manicure provider, but it can be done much cheaper by you. All you need is a basic manicure set and the cuticle oil. Your partner will be grateful for the care you show for your nails.

Nail Care Tips

 

Are you taking good care of your nails, or do you neglect them in your daily beauty routine?

There are at least three reasons why you should take good care of your fingernails. First, well maintained nails make your hands look more beautiful and elegant. If you are suffering from the latest nail art craze, then having trimmed and well groomed nails is a must. Secondly, clean hands and nails prevent the spread of germs and help you stay healthy. Finally, one look at your nails can help a doctor tell what your general health status is. Nails tell a lot about your style, your personal hygiene habits, and your health, so do not neglect them.

Here are few tips on how to have gorgeous fingernails without too much trouble.

Keep Fingernails Dry and Clean

Keep your fingernails clean to prevent bacteria from forming under them. Soak your hands in soapy water and brush gently around and under your nails. Moisture also allows the bacteria to grow, and prolonged contact with water makes the nails brittle and cause cuticles to crack. Not to mention that harsh chemicals weaken the nails and make them split. Always keep the nails dry by wiping your hands with a cotton towel or by wearing gloves when washing dishes, cleaning your house, working in garden, or using any detergents.

Apply Moisturizer

While applying hand lotion, make sure to rub the lotion into your nails and cuticles as well. While at it, take some time to massage your hands and especially your fingertips. This will stimulate blood circulation and improve the growth of your nails. Any hand lotion or moisturizer would do, or simply use pure olive oil or jojoba oil as great moisturizers and nutrients. Get into habit of massaging your nails at least once a week.

Vitamins for Greater Nail Strength

Vitamins facilitate the processing of proteins, which in turn keep hangnails at bay. Vitamin B deficiency may lead to ridges and brittle nails. Biotin, which is a member of the B-complex of vitamins, is essential for nail health and is used to treat split-prone nails. Regularly eating egg yolks, soy beans and whole grains should provide you with sufficient amounts of biotin. Another option is biotin supplements. Vitamin C is responsible for the production of collagen – the building block of nails. Lack of vitamin C will slow down your nails’ growth. To avoid this, eat a lot of berries, peppers, greens, and citrus fruits. Finally, vitamin D is essential for calcium absorption, and there are no strong nails without calcium.

Minerals for Greater Nail Strength

We’ve already mentioned calcium which is needed to avoid brittle nails, discoloration, and chipping, and for nail growth. Best way to get calcium, although diet is the best option, there are some other options, for example calcium supplements which can be a good alternative.

In addition to calcium, iron prevents discoloration and occurrence of ridges. That whitish, crescent shape at the base of your nails might indicate inadequate iron intake. Dried fruits, chickpeas, beans and dark leafy veggies are a rich source of iron. Zinc contributes to your immune system, and your overall health, which directly impacts the health of your nails. Try eating more zinc abundant foods like fish, meat, mushrooms, and sunflower seeds.

Apply a protective layer

Brittle and paper-thin nails break more easily. To restore strength to your nails, first consider giving them a rest from nail polishes. Instead, apply clear nail polish that also has nail hardening properties. Most hardeners provide the glossy look to your nails, so as long as you keep the dirt away, your nails will still look pretty.

How To Remove Blackheads At Your Home

Blackheads can be a pain in the rear and it can put a damper on your confidence level. But don’t fret, for we’ve got you covered! Here are 6 natural remedies to remove those nasty blackheads with aggravating your skin condition.

1. Tomato

Tomatoes are packed with antiseptic properties and are effective in unclogging your pores! Mash a tomato and add a few drops of olive oil into the mixture if you have dry skin. Apply it all over your nose and if possible, leave it overnight. Rinse it off after 15 minutes or the next morning and voila, say hello to blemish-free nose!

2. Lemon and Honey

The benefits of lemon and honey are endless. They are known for curing acne, aiding in weight control and basically, it’s the secret behind every gorgeous girl. Well, you’ll be glad to know that lemon and honey can solve your blackhead issues too! Squeeze half a lemon into a small bowl and add one tablespoon of honey and a dash of salt, and stir the mixture well. Apply it all over your blackheads and leave it to dry before washing it off with warm water! Trust us, you won’t regret trying this!

3. Egg white

Using egg whites and applying it all over your blackheads will help to dry it out and tighten your pores at the same time. Apply a thin layer over your blackheads and let it dry before applying a second layer. Do it a couple of times, letting the layer dry in between the applications. Once you’ve applied four or five layers, you’re ready to peel those little suckers out.  Applying the leftover egg yolk on your face as a moisturizing mask will leave your face super soft and smooth!

4. Oatmeal and Yogurt

Oatmeal and yogurt don’t just make for a delicious breakfast, but the combo can be a lifesaver for acne or blackhead problems. Mix two parts oatmeal and three parts yogurt to create a paste. Squeeze a few drops of lemon and apply it on your blackheads for about 20 minutes. Wash it off with warm water, exfoliating gently as you do so.

5. Toothpaste

You heard us right – toothpaste is actually effective in removing blackheads. And, of course, it is the most accessible one (unless you brush your teeth with some secret recipe). Just apply a thin layer of toothpaste on your blackheads and wait till it dries. Gently exfoliate your skin and the blackheads will dislodge with the toothpaste. Rinse with warm water and you’re good to go.

6. Corn and Vinegar

These ingredients that you can find in every household have an amazing effect on the skin. To create this wonderful mask, mix two tablespoons of corn flour with two teaspoons of vinegar. Apply the paste on your face and leave it for 15-20 minutes. Then rinse with warm water. You will see that this is one of the most effective solutions to get rid of blackheads.

If you follow these instructions then you might see the wondering result. Best of luck.

Hair Care Tips For Men

 

Men, listen up. Women love healthy, thick, full hair on a man, the type of hair they can wrap their fingers around or run their fingertips through. Color doesn’t matter. Length doesn’t matter too much. What matters is that the hair is healthy and well-cared for. In fact, women don’t really even care too much if a man is balding as long as there is something they can brush their fingertips over. I love when my man gets a haircut and comes home with the soft fuzz at the back of the neck.

Shampoo and Conditioner

One way a man can have healthier hair is by washing it with shampoo and conditioner. A lot of men neglect the conditioner or just opt for shampoo or even bar or liquid soap to wash hair. Unfortunately, liquid soap and bar soap will leave a residue on the hair and your hair will be stiff and won’t feel soft. Conditioner will keep hair shiny and soft, and your woman will love to run her fingers through or over your hair.

Cut Hair Frequently

Trimming your hair about once per month will keep it growing healthy, trim any rough or broken ends, and help it maintain a nice shine and healthy softness. You can trim your own hair, but at least once every three months or so, a man should get his hair cut and styled by a professional.

Eat a Healthy Diet

Women have learned that what we eat affects our hair and skin, but you guys are still not quite convinced, it seems. Beer and steak and potatoes are good for once in awhile, but water, vegetables and fruits help get nutrition and vitamins that are important for healthy, gorgeous man hair.

Hair Care Products

If hair feels dry or frizzy or curly, using a little styling mouse or gel can tame that and make hair shiny and healthy looking and also make your hair fuller and thicker. Avoid using oils or hair slicks though because they will make hair limp and stringy and thinner looking.

Bald is Beautiful

If your hair is thinning, don’t try to hide it or do the dreaded comb over. Why not consider going bald all the way – shave it! It makes your hair fuzz soft and women love to rub bald heads!

Avoid Over Washing

Wash your hair only as needed. If your hair is dry and course, try to limit washing to once or twice a week. Also, don’t forget to apply conditioner every time you wash your hair. Washing it on a daily basis will only make it drier.

Pat Dry

Towel drying may cause damage to your hair. Most men think that rubbing their hair harder after washing will make it dry quicker. However, an over-zealous towel drying technique may result to damage, split ends and frizziest. Mind you, our hair is more susceptible to damage when it is wet.

Instead of rubbing your hair with a towel, just pat dry. Your hair may take longer to dry this way, but you’ll notice the difference in the way your hair looks.

Avoid Chemical Treatments

Frequent coloring and chemical treatments can leave your hair dull, dry and damaged. If you wish to have your hair treated, it would be best to visit a salon and find a good stylist. They can choose the best products and prepare your hair for treatment.

Avoid Tight Hats

Hats are only a problem when they don’t fit properly. If you wear a hat, or a ponytail for that matter, that’s too tight, you could be causing damage to your hair. Tight hats or tight hair styling can give you baldness because it tightens the hair off the scalp instead make sure your hair is always comfortable to guarantee normal growth and good look.

Use a Brush with Gentle Comb Teeth

Because hair tends to be weaker when it’s wet so using a good quality gentle brush is healthier for your scalp and hair.

Update your hairstyle every now and then. If you’ve been wearing the same style for most of your life, you’d be amazed how different a new hairstyle can make you feel. Visit a salon that specializes in men and ask them to give you an updated style that compliments your appearance.

It’s important to remember that our hair is a direct reflection of our overall health. If we maintain a balanced diet, drink plenty of water, exercise regularly, get rid of some stress in our lives and sleep well, we will look and feel great as a result.