Fight Aging

Developing an anti-aging program is the newest scientific approach to helping you live a longer, healthier and more active life. Some of the greatest benefits include improved mental and cognitive funtion, stronger cardiovascular system, increased lean body mass and decreased body fat, improve sexual function, fewer wrinkles, thicker skin and better skin tone. The main components of anti-aging to include in your program are:Optimal nutrition, proper skincare, regular excercise, hormone replacement therapy, and lifestyle behavioral changes such as smoke, stress management, and reduced alcohol asumption.

Excercise is the simplest and least expensive anti-aging tool. You can work with a personal trainer, and better yet, participation in a regular fitness program will provide you needed exercise benefits. Be sure to check with your physician before beginning any rigorous exercise program.

If your body is armed with the ammunition to defend itself, your body will have stronger immunity and reduced disease, and you'll find yourself seeking medical attention less frequently. Through the synergistic action of all these components, anti-aging scientists have observed a significant change and even reversal of some aging effects. Now it's your turn to observe these changes in your skin and body. Discuss additional options for addressing changes to your skin with your skincare professional professional.

Mina Dimakis-Lev
http://www.BeautyImagebyMina.com

Beautiful Eyes

Beautiful skin care starts with what people notice first. Eyes are what others notice immediately; so start your skin care program eye-to-eye!

Here are four major skin care issues related to eye care, work them successfully and look 20 years younger.

Dark Circles

Check the color of your circles. If they're blue or gray, allergies or pooling blood may be to blame. Receive the firming, moisturizing, and corrective benefits (including the reduction in appearance of dark circles) of just released DNA Repair Creme, found at www.ihdistribution.com.

Undereye Puffiness

To beat those bags, diagnose the cause: If you're puffy only upon awakening, fluid retention is the likely cause; sleeping on two pillows can prevent liquids from pooling. Been using a new face cream or rubbing your eyes? These can cause swelling. A gel that contains a blood-vessel constrictor, like witch hazel, and an anti-inflammatory, like chamomile extract, can temporarily reduce irritation. Or make a home remedy: Mix one drop each of witch hazel, brewed chamomile tea, and over-the-counter cortisone lotion. If you've got time, lay a cucumber slice on top to help the paste penetrate better. If puff is always present, try IH Distribution's DNA Repair Creme to reduce puffiness and repair the delicate tissue around the eye.

Crow's Feet

When you smile, your eyes pay a price when the muscles around them contract, and a little elasticity is lost. Combine that with sun exposure and, in about 30 years, you've got crow's feet. DNA Repair Cry me, found at www.ihdistribution.com, is effective to repair fine lines and wrinkles around the eye. The products are natural and botanical-based.

Drooping

Most firming creams have little, if any, effect on sagginess so this is a job for cosmetics, strategically applied to define and visually lift the eyes. First choose a shadow palette:

-Apply the midtone from lashline to crease. This adds soft shading to your lids.
-To draw attention to the highest part of your arch, dust the light, shimmery color along browbone, starting from middle of brow and blending outward.
-Sweep the darkest color over your crease, blending into the midtone, then toward the inner corner of your brow. (This softens the harshness of using the dark tone alone.)
-Line your upper lashes with the darkest shade, intensifying the color and slightly flaring it up at the outer edge. Finish off with a curling mascara to open up your eyes.
-You can find a vast assortment of eye shadow colors produced from cucumber and aloe extracts that are designed to soothe and moisturize lids.

Eye Color Hints = Big Impact!

-Enhance your eye hue with a single contrasting shadow shade. For blue or icy green eyes, choose a warm, yellow-based hue; for brown or olive-y eyes, opt for a cool, red-based shadow.
-Perk up dull eyes. Irises lose pigment as you age, but brightening your hair helps compensate, says Boston colorist Michael Perry. To achieve, use a shine-enhancing shampoo (try IH Distribution's Self-Adjusting Shampoo & Conditioner).
-Neutralize blue or gray circles with a yellow-based concealer. Cover-ups with a drier consistency often have more pigment.
-Offset bloodshot eyes. Blue liner works, but it can look unnatural. Better: Glide a neutral eyeliner (brown or black) along upper lashlines, then apply a blue liner on top; blend.
Groom ragged brows: They can accentuate droop. For quick cleanup, use a colored brow wand to thicken and add arch.

Control Tips

How you live affects your eyes. So to keep yours looking good, consider changing some daily habits.

-Perfume. If your eyes are sensitive, fragrance can make them red. To diminish this effect without giving up scent, avoid classic spots - like behind your ears that are too close to your eyes.
-Diet. On a low carb. plan? It's dehydrating (to metabolize the extra protein, your body uses more water) and your eyes may show it. Compensate by drinking ten glasses of water each day, two more than what's usually recommended.
-Prescriptions. High blood pressure medicines and antihistamines for allergies can dry your eyes. Rehydrate with drops sans preservatives (they can be irritating) and, if you wear contacts, a moisturizing cleaning solution.
-Exercise. When sweat drips into your eyes, so do dirt and oils and rubbing your eyes with your fingers can start an infection. Instead dab sweat with a towel and try to wear a sweatband.

This article is brought to you by IH Distribution, LLC.

Bringing you health, anti-aging and skin care products from around the world. Shop online: www.ihdistribution.com & www.ihd.myarbonne.com or contact us: sales@ihdistribution.com

Please share the content of these articles with your friends, family and colleagues. Reprint rights granted. All reprints, must include a link to www.ihdistribution.com. Content may not be altered and articles must be used as distributed by IH Distribution, LLC

Copyright ? IH Distribution LLC 2004

Natural Skin Care Products and Skin Care Systems

When you are searching the Internet for natural skin care products, you will notice that there are tons of sites that offer a variety of options to choose from. Below you find an assortment of websites, as well as natural skin care product descriptions that are offered through the individual companies.

Devita Natural Skin Care Systems

Upon visiting www.devita.net, you will encounter the website of the Devita Natural Skin Care Systems, which offers a line of all-natural products containing aloe vera, as well as a mixture of rare essential oils. The products are geared towards all skin types and claim to decrease the signs of aging that are caused by the natural process of aging, as well as environmental factors.

The company taps into the rich resource of oils that are thought to possess a healing power that soothes the spirit, mind and body. Some of the ingredients that the company uses in their natural skin care products include rose, sage, chamomile, avocado, as well as frankincense.

Natural skin care products from Devita deliver pure essential oils, amino acids and whole herb extracts which have been scientifically deemed beneficial for achieving healthy skin.

A few natural skin care products to consider include the Devita Cool Cucumber Toner, which aids in the decrease in pore size, as well as possesses skin-lifting capabilities, providing a certain renewal of the skin.

Devita?s Aloe Vera Moisture Cleanser is available for $18.95 and is a gentle foaming cleanser with conditioning agents for the face. This product can be used to tighten pores and rejuvenate the skin.

Some natural skin care products have used copper for its collagen and elastin properties. The company offers a sun damage repair serum that contains a copper peptide, which claims to reverse the damage caused by the sun. This item is available for the price of $34.95.

Emu Oil

Who would have thought that a large bird could produce oil that is both anti-bacterial, as well as anti-inflammatory?

The emu, which is close in relation to the ostrich, is native to Australia and produces oil that has been used in natural skin care products to treat many skin conditions. An example of these products can be found by visiting the website: www.nfbotanicals.com/emu.

The emu oil has been shown to help heal burns; heal wounds; relieve eczema and acne, as well as fade stretch marks.

Products that can be found on the website include an Evening Primrose Cream, as well as Skin Therapy Cream; both containing emu oil as an ingredient.

All-Natural Cosmetics

Natural skin care products can also be found by visiting www.alphaskincare.com, which offers a variety of all-natural cosmetics consisting of minerals and other all-natural ingredients.

Not only can you purchase facial toners, cleansers, masques, serums, body powders and body balm, you can consider some of the natural aromatherapy skin care products that they offer.

When considering an all-natural handmade soap from this shop, you can choose from an array of products including Oatmeal and Honey, Lavender Oatmeal, Lemongrass and Orange Clove.

Blue Dragon Beauty

Blue Dragon Beauty provides customers with a long list of handmade soaps, body balms, as well as other natural skin care products. The ingredients of some of these products include essential oils, beeswax, spices, as well as fruit and nut butters.

The company produces an unscented soap containing castor oil, coconut, palm kernel and olive. It is called ?Bare.?

The company?s ?DesertBreeze? soap includes such ingredients like cinnamon, cloves, mint, wintergreen and eucalyptus, creating an inviting, spicy scent.

More skin care products information and FREE exclusive diet and health magazines, are available on our web site: http://www.net-planet.org

Skin Care Learn the Basics

Skin types are unique and react in different ways to weather, environment, and creams and/or lotions. In order to keep skin healthy and youthful in appearance it is essential to know your skin type and how to care for it.

Most skin care specialists will advise to apply moisturizers all over the body to nourish the skin. Top of the list in skin care is sun protection to prevent damage to the delicate skin structure. A few other simple steps will help you care for your particular skin type.

Normal Skin: Use a rich cream or lotion to moisturise the skin. Be sure to apply the moisturizer to the neck and d?collet?. Don?t forget to moisturize the elbows and knees. It?s best to apply moisturizers after bathing while the skin is still moist for better absorption.

Oily Skin: There are already plenty of natural oils in this skin type, so use a light moisturizer. A body mist spray is also good for oily skin, as it will sit gently on the skin, without stimulating the glands that product body oils. To avoid breakouts it is important to keep pores from becoming clogged.

Combination Skin: This type of skin usually refers to just the face. The neck however, should not be forgotten. The neck area tends to dry if you have this type of skin. A light moisturizer that contains sunscreen should be used in order to combat dryness. At night a richer cream will nourish the skin as you sleep, keeping it smooth, supple and youthful.

Dry Skin: A deep penetrating cream will nourish this type of skin. Try an oil-based lotion as an alternative; it will leave the skin silky and smooth. Dry skin is often aggravated by air conditioning, wind and sun. Always use extra moisturizers to keep hydrated when exposed to these elements.

Sensitive Skin: This type of skin often needs special attention. Formulated and medicated creams can be obtained to address specific individual needs. A visit to a professional will help evaluate this type of skin and assist in designing a skin care regime that addresses each particular case.

?Keep your skin protected from the sun at all times.
?Drink plenty of water.
?Get lots of sleep.
?Do not rub the skin - always pat skin dry with a soft towel.
?Consult your aesthetician or dermatologist they can advise you on solutions to most problem skin conditions.

Spas in Canada ? Copyright 2005

Angie Kocsi is co-founder of Spas in Canada. After many years enjoying the great spas in Europe and drawing upon her experience and knowledge of the corporate world; along with a successful career in Public Relations and International Marketing Spas in Canada was created.
For more information contact the spa team by email: spas@spasincanada.ca

AntiAging Skin Care Secrets & Solutions

Anti-aging skin care is simple. But there are steps you'll need to take. Your skin is the largest organ of your body and the only one exposed to the elements. It?s also the only one exposed to the view of others, so you?ll want to make sure it ages as slowly as possible.

As time goes by, your skin tends to get thinner, dryer, more wrinkled and, eventually, age spots may appear. Although you can?t stop the process, you can slow it down dramatically. Besides using high quality skin care (mild cleansers and effective moisturizers), there are two other secrets to your skin?s fountain of youth.

Since ?garbage in, garbage out? applies to your body as well as your computer, healthy skin requires a healthy diet. Reduce your over all fats to under 30%, replacing processed and saturated ?bad? fats with ?good? essential fatty acids. Eliminate sweets and other processed carbohydrates and add more whole grains and carotenoid rich fruits and vegetables. Exercise carries the essential nutrients to your cells and eight glasses of water a day keeps cells hydrated and flushes out harmful toxins.

Carotenoids are a family of phytonutrients that have been proven over and over again to protect human cells from oxidative free-radical damage - one of the major causes of skin aging. That?s why the National Institutes of Health recommends eating nine daily servings of brightly colored fruits and vegetables ? peaches, strawberries, broccoli, etc. rather than iceberg lettuce, bananas and French fries. To make sure you?re getting optimum skin benefits, a good whole food carotenoid supplement will help.

The other important guideline for anti-aging skin care is to avoid sun exposure. Just driving with your arm out the window of your car can cause sun damage and accelerate aging. So get UV tinting on your car windows and keep your arm inside. Wear sunglasses, a hat, long sleeves and long pants and always use sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of at least 15.

Carotenoids have also been found to help prevent sunburn, so get more into your diet. Years from now, your magic mirror on the wall will confirm that you?ll be glad you did.

Moss Greene makes it easy for you to create buoyant, vibrant health. Learn the simple things that make a big difference in how you look and feel. To receive your free newsletter visit her Health and Fitness Newsletter page.

The Miracles Of Tea Tree Oil For Skin And Hair Care

Tea tree, MELALEUCA ALTERNIFOLIA, native to Australia, is a tree or shrub with needle like leaves similar in appearance to cypress with heads of sessile pale flowers. The popular tea tree oil is derived from this tree. The aborigines of Australia have been known to have used the tea tree oil to treat a range of ailments from colds, sores to acne and even whooping cough.

Extensively used in aromatherapy, the leaves when crushed release essential oils of varying amounts and constituents. The oil is so potent that it can be diluted up to many times its volume and it still manages to retain its effectiveness all the same. Although the benefits of tea tree oil are numerous, for beauty treatments, it?s been found effective in skin and hair care. The following sections describe the uses of Tea Tree Oil for skin care and hair care.

Tea tree oil for skin care

Tea tree oil has been used effectively to treat acne, abscess, athlete's foot, blisters, burns, cold sores, insect bites, oily skin, rashes, spots, warts and wounds. You can use tea tree oil to cure sunburns, diaper rash, toenail infections and problems of smelly feet.

Tea tree oil for hair care

Add a few drops of Tea tree oil to your regular shampoo to treat hair problems like persistent dandruff, itchy-scalp and even prevent head-lice. Massage it in, leave it on for 5-7 minutes and rinse off. Adding a few drops in pet shampoo/bath helps keep tics and rashes at bay.

Other benefits of tea tree oil Fed-up with allopathic medicines? Packets of antibiotics that have gone down your throat seem to be of no use? The only things you find they have lightened are your pockets? Well, don't panic, help is at hand, Tea Tree oil can be used to treat a variety of medical problems. A great remedy to soothe your sinuses; dab a drop of tea tree oil around your nose can help clear up blocked sinuses.

Add a few drops in a steam bath or vaporizer and inhale, a great relief for persistent colds and cough. Regular use of tea tree oil has been found to be effective in treating Asthma, bronchitis, catarrh, cough, sinusitis and even tuberculosis.

Tea tree oil is a great general disinfectant and can be effectively used to treat genito-urinary tract infections such as thrush, vaginitis, cystitis and pruitis. Tea tree oil has properties that act as a immune booster. It helps equip the body to fight off a host of infections. Using tea tree oil is particularly effective if the body is already in a weakened condition due to illness, stress or prolonged treatment-involving antibiotics that lead to a reduction of the body's natural resistance.

Using tea tree oil prior to a surgical operation or for those suffering from long-drawn debilitating illness has been found to be beneficial. The anti-fungal, anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties have seen tea tree oil being used extensively in soaps, toothpastes, deodorants, disinfectants, gargles, germicides, aftershaves and colognes. Tea tree oil is safe to use, as it is non-toxic and non-irritant.

Although tea tree oil has no known side effects, some individuals may be sensitive to it. This calls for consideration of the strength of tea tree oil and should never be used undiluted on the body and particularly on sensitive areas.

Kevin Pederson has been managing a number of natural home remedies websites which have information on home based natural cures and references to some of the very useful oils like tea tree oils which are very good for your skin and hair .

The Secrets of Looking and Feeling Younger and HGH Supplements

The mankind has never stopped searching for the scerets of youth ever since the dawn of intelligence. The tales date back to at least the time of the Alexander Romance in the West. In the East, the efforts of searching for permanent youth were recorded in the Huangdi Nei Jing (the Yellow Emperor's Canon of Internal Medicine) - the earliest medical classic in China, written 2000 years ago. Gerontology now reveals that the secrets of youth are the Human Growth Hormones (HGH) and the genes inside every man and woman's body.

Hormones are chemical messengers that help your body perform functions necessary for health and well-being. One such hormone that is much talked about is the human growth hormone (HGH). Produced by the pituitary gland in our brain, this hormone is responsible for the health and vitality associated with youth.

Several studies show that the body produces roughly 15% less HGH with each successive decade. Therefore, as you get older and your body produces less HGH, you start to notice that you look and feel older. The original belief was that the pituitary gland simply didn?t have the capacity to produce large amounts of HGH as you grow older. However, recent studies report that aging pituitary glands are actually capable of producing as much HGH as a young pituitary gland; only it has to be adequately stimulated. Now, this is where the HGH supplements come in.

The best means of elevating HGH levels is to stimulate the body to produce more HGH. Instead of introducing more of the hormone into the body, the role of HGH supplements would be to stimulate your pituitary gland to produce more HGH. HGH supplements eliminate the worry of side effects because you will not be introducing foreign HGH into your body. Also, your body is adept in self-regulating, so it?s not likely to produce an excessive amount of HGH which could be harmful.

You have probably heard enough about HGH to know that there are a lot of HGH supplements available now. Besides making you feel and look younger, they are also known to make you lose weight, gain lean muscle, lower blood pressure, boost your immune system, and improve your memory and mood. Could HGH supplements indeed be the miracle pill that everyone says it is? There?s only one way to find out.

Copyright @2005, Natalie Aranda

You have permission to publish this article electronically free of charge, as long as the bylines and links in the body of the article and the bylines are included.

Natalie Aranda is a freelance writer. She writes about family, online dating, health, beauty and HGH supplements.

Lanolin for Dummies Benefits of Lanolin

Lanolinn.Fatty substance obtained from wool. [German : from Latin lana (wool) + oleum (oil)

Wool oil, also referred to as ?wool grease? and ?wool fat?, originates as a unique substance, similar to wax, secreted from special glands in sheep?s skin. This substance migrates to the wool and offers natural protection to the animal against harsh weather and climatic conditions.

Wool oil is washed from the sheep?s wool during the scouring (cleaning) process. This takes place after the sheep has been shorn (similar to us having a haircut), a completely harmless process that takes place once a year meaning this natural wool fibre a renewable resource.

The raw oil obtained through the scouring process is then refined into lanolin, an organic, non-toxic, non-hazardous, biodegradable product. Pure lanolin contains less than 3 parts per million of all impurities. The lanolin used in the production of our Lanocreme skin care range is considered to be more pure than most foods we consume. The chemical make up of lanolin is fascinating, demonstrating nature?s ability to create a protective coating which, to this day, chemists have been unable to duplicate in performance or composition.

Lanolin is entirely safe and included in all medical pharmacopoeias and the EEG Cosmetics Directive Second Amendment, which allows lanolin to be used freely in cosmetics without restriction.

Lanolin plays a major role in the production of our Lanocreme range of skin care products due to its well-deserved reputation of being the ultimate natural substance that gives a soothing and moisturizing effect when applied to the skin. Lanolin closely resembles the oil produced by our own oil glands and is easily absorbed by the outer, protective layer of our skin reducing excessive moisture loss and thereby restoring softness and elasticity.

Kim Bright has over 15 years experience with skin care products, having been involved in extensive market research throughout that time. She is currently employed as a marketing/customer services representative for Lanocorp Pacific Ltd who have been in the business of producing and distributing Lanolin based skin care products since 1987.

Eyebrow POW!

I admit it. I have an eyebrow obsession. Nothing can ruin your looks easier. Your eyebrows frame your most important feature: your eyes. They also show expression. Don?t underestimate the power of the eyebrow. Beautiful brows can be yours if you follow these steps.

Shape up

?One of the biggest mistakes aspiring models, and women in general, make is over-plucking their eyebrows.

?Check out the models in the magazines. Are the eyebrows pencil thin? I don?t think so.

?Let your brows grow out. It will be visually painful, but you?ll get used to it.

?If you have been over-plucking for a long time, it will take a long time for them to grow back.

?While your brows are growing out, use a stencil (see below) and powder to fill them in.

?They may not grow back at all. I know several women with bald spots in their brows. They use a lot of eyebrow powder. More on that later.

?If your eyes are close together, pluck so the space in the center just a bit wider.

?If your eyes are very far apart, let the brows grow slightly closer to the center.

?Go to an upscale salon for a professional wax. Don?t try to do it yourself. It?s dangerous and it hurts!

?Make sure the esthetician understands you want them thicker rather than thinner.

?Once you have the proper shape, you can follow the lines.

?Use slant-tip tweezers. Tweezerman makes awesome tweezers. Go to http://www.tweezerman.com for more information.

?Check for new, unwanted growth daily and plucking will never be a chore.

?Never pluck right before a job or go-see since redness may occur.

?As an alternative to professional shaping, you can buy really cool eyebrow stencils at http://www.eyebrowz.com. But stay away from the curved and thin stencils. Stick with the medium and thick choices. Just don?t pick anything odd. Try to follow your natural shape as much as possible.

Guys:

??Unibrows? (aka ?Monobrows?) are nasty.

?You certainly don?t want your brows so neat they look feminine, but you will need to pluck in the middle and the strays under and over the brows.

?Look at Details and GQ magazines for eyebrow shapes.

?You, too, can buy really cool eyebrow stencils at http://www.eyebrowz.com. Don?t pick anything feminine. Try to follow your natural shape as much as possible.

Just pluck it.

?Apply witch hazel to the area with a cotton ball.

?Use a pencil to line up the points.

?The eyebrow should start directly above the inner corner of your eye.

?The arch should be just a little beyond the outer edge of the iris.

?It should end at the corner of the eye.

?Brush your eyebrows in a natural shape with a new toothbrush (not the one you use of course) or brow brush.

?Use a magnifying mirror, but keep checking in a regular mirror. It?s very easy to overpluck.

?Pluck right after a shower. It?s easier.

?Pluck in the direction of the growth.

?Anbesol (tooth numbing gel) works to ease the pain. Just don?t get it in your eyes.

Color conversion.

?Color is as important as shape.

?You can alter the color of your eyebrows with powder specifically made for this purpose.

?If your hair is dark, choose a powder one or two shades lighter.

?Light haired people should go one or two shades darker than their hair.

?If you insist on pencil, use it in small, feathered strokes. Use a light hand since pencil can look obvious.

Other tips

?Never get your eyebrows permanently tattooed. Eyebrow trends do change, albeit slowly. I knew a tattooed girl whose eyebrows looked like a clown?s, and she was stuck with a constant look of surprise.

?Please never draw them on with a pencil. Powder is a much better choice.

?Spray hairspray on your finger tip and smooth on unruly brows.

?Never dye your eyebrows unless you don?t value your eyesight.

Tracy Whiteside is a freelance writer living in the Chicago area. She is currently a licensed talent agent and former owner of an award-winning modeling and talent agency. Tracy has trained Elite, Wilhelmina and Ford models as well as Miss Preteen New Jersey 2005 and Mrs. New Jersey 2005. Her agency?s clients included MTV, Nickelodeon, Ogilvy and Mather Advertising and Court TV. She has worked in the entertainment industry and the fashion business for over 25 years. After graduating from Ray Vogue College of Design in Chicago, she began her fashion career at Saks Fifth Avenue and was employed for 12 years at Spiegel catalog. She can be reached at info@eModelBook.com. For more information on modeling, acting and singing, go to http://www.actor-book.com.

Power Play: Fall Beauty Trends Straight from the Runway

When Miuccia Prada abandoned her signature ladylike aesthetic in favor of dark chunky knits, animal prints, and sky-high platforms for her fall collection, she sent a strong message: The prim lady had officially been supplanted by the 21st-century uber-woman. (Presumably, the former muse is off fending for herself somewhere in the urban jungle?.) And Prada wasn?t alone: In New York, Milan, and Paris, the runway heroine du jour represented a dramatic departure from the fresh-faced girls and submissive sex kittens of seasons past. The sartorial shift was also accompanied by a new crop of beauty trends, with blood red lips eclipsing shimmer, smoldering eyes ousting beach-bunny bronzer, and pin-straight hair surpassing more romantic styles. Here, the top six beauty trends from the fall 2006 shows.

Hot Lips
Along with trousers, tulip skirts, and ankle boots, bold lipstick is part of the power woman?s fall uniform. (Think of it as war paint to ornament your new, no-nonsense attitude.) Tuleh?s ?40s-style collection inspired a high-sheen berry lip, while Valentino?s matte red added a shot of color to the designer?s largely colorless collection. Jill Stuart chose a glossy purple, while Behnaz Sarafpour, Miu Miu, and Diane von Furstenberg all opted for classic crimsons. At Alice Roy, nearly black lips were a perfect complement to the designer?s edgy, neo-punk vision.
Trend Tips: The key to wearing bold lip colors is keeping the rest of your makeup minimal (combining this trend with a smoky eye or heavy blush will lead to certain disaster). For more staying power, add a sheer coat of foundation to lips first, followed by a light dusting of powder and lipliner. Apply the color in several light coats, blotting with a tissue between each layer.
Best Bets: Nars Lipstick in Fire Down Below, Chanel Rouge Hydrabase in Shanghai Red, Tarte Double Ended Lipgloss in Bonnie & Clyde, Clinique Quickliner for Lips in Deep Red, Sephora Jumbo Pencil in Raspberry, Sally Hansen Diamond Lip Treatment in Always Asher.


The Eyes Have It
Eye makeup was unusually restrained for spring, but it made a serious comeback at the fall shows. At Allessandro Dell?Acqua, eyes were rimmed with sexy rock-goddess smudges; at Rochas, the lines were blurred with moody black shadows; and at Missoni and Narciso Rodriguez, the models wore thick ?80s-inspired liner on the bottom lids. Victor & Rolf and Armani both shifted the focus to the top lid with retro-style wings, while Zac Posen, J. Mendel, and Badgley Mischka opted for an eye that was both dramatic and wearable. You probably won?t see Christian Dior?s or Gucci?s theatrical looks at the office, but both will provide plenty of inspiration for more experimental beauty addicts.
Trend Tips: If you?re using a pencil that?s too hard, heat it under the hair dryer for a few seconds to soften the tip (just be careful not to melt the liner or burn yourself). If you have small eyes, keep the emphasis on top, rather than on the lower lid. And if you have bags or circles, use concealer?without it, dark liner will only emphasize undereye problems.
Best Bets: M.A.C. Eyeshadow in Black Tied, Urban Decay Glide-on Pencil in Zero, Sue Devitt Eye Intensifier Pencil in Pointe-Noire, Goldie Smudgable Liquid Line in Maha, Too Faced Lava Gloss Super Glossy Eyeliner in Chocolate, NYC Brow/Eye Liner Pencil in 921.


Devil May Care
The minimalist makeup that swept the spring runways also made an appearance for fall. But this time, barely there faces seem to make a more subversive statement (think unabashedly naked, as opposed to coquettishly nude). In the absence of color, the spotlight shifted to a strong brow at Yves Saint Laurent, Chlo?, and Fendi, while Jil Sander?s and Balenciaga?s underdone approach put the models? luminous skin and bone structure center stage. At Marc Jacobs, carefully chosen hints of neutral color complemented the designer?s heavily layered collection.
Trend Tips: For a face that looks uncontrived but not disheveled, invest in a good-quality concealer and brow gel. To camouflage flaws and even out your complexion, use a tinted moisturizer or primer. And to keep skin from looking flat, sweep an iridescent highlighter along the cheeks and browbones.
Best Bets: Laura Mercier Foundation Primer, Smashbox Artificial Light Luminizing Lotion, Benefit Moon Beam, Lauren Hutton Tinted Moisturizer + Sheer Concealer, Biotherm Light Catch Moisturizing Illuminating Concealer, Sue Devitt Aromatic Camouflage Concealer.


Lighter Side
Although dark lips ruled several runways, other designers opted for pale pouts?the perfect foil to this season?s intense eye makeup. Chanel?s beige lip evoked the ?60s, Dolce & Gabbana?s golden take complemented the designer?s opulent couture, and Burberry?s pale pink transformed the models from fresh-faced girls into cool ice queens. Alberta Ferretti?s powdery version was paired with a shimmery golden eye, while Celine and Carolina Herrera each offered a sheerer take on the trend.
Trend Tips: Although it?s stunning on the runway, a pale lip that?s too beige or matte can look deadly in real life. To keep from looking like a corpse, choose lipsticks and glosses with a little peach (if your skin tone is warm) or pink (if you?re cool), and finish with a dab of clear gloss.
Best Bets: M.A.C. Lipglass in Uberpeach, Dior Addict Ultra-Gloss, Jaqua Carmel Cappuccino Lip Whip, Shu Uemura Lolishine Rouge in 968, Too Faced Diamond Gloss in Lilac, Clarins Color Quench Lip Balm No. 10.


The Tip-Off
Nails went to extremes this season, from polish-free and clear-coated to dark, goth-style tips (with almost nothing in between). Gone were the brights, the glitter, and the nail art?fall?s sophisticated lady wears somber nail colors or none at all. Most designers chose a colorless look, including J. Mendel and Derek Lam. At Marc Jacobs, the models didn?t wear polish but kept their nails looking neat with Essie?s Cuticle Pen. In contrast, Nanette Lepore?s wore Essie?s Wicked, a rich burgundy-brown, while Alice Roy?s were treated to an even darker shade in keeping with the show?s nearly black lips.
Trend Tips: Colorless nails and dark, vampy enamels can both draw attention to imperfections, so be sure cuticles are neat. In addition, keep tips no longer than one-half the length of your nail bed, and use a ridge-filler or ridge-filling base coat to create a smooth surface.
Best Bets: Essie Cuticle Pen and Wicked Nail Colour, Lippmann Collection Nail Polish in Sophisticated Lady, OPI Ridge Filler, La Cross Curved-Blade Nail Scissors, Avon Nailwear Nail Enamel in Femme, Elizabeth Arden Nail Polish in Christopher St. Cappuccino C, Creative Nail Design Nail Polish in Voodoo.


Straight Edge
It seems like just last year?and it was?that women were finally ditching their flatirons, and granted, the shows did see several wavy styles and romantic updos. But the biggest news in hair was the return of long, pin-straight strands. Getting the look can be grueling for many women, but Carolina Herrera, Bill Blass, Luca Luca, Stella McCartney, and Versace all opted for sleek, center-parted locks. Pucci, Costume National, and Ralph Lauren chose similar styles with just a bit of bend on the bottom, while straight tresses were side-parted and left loose at Marni, casually secured at Moschino, and slickly swept at Giambattista Valli.
Trend Tips: For smoother results and to reduce the risk of damage, apply a dime-size amount of a heat-protecting and defrizzing product evenly throughout damp strands. When you blow-dry, work in small sections from the bottom to the top of your head, and if you?re using a flatiron, keep it moving to prevent singeing.
Best Bets: Farouk Chi Ceramic Flatiron, Sedu Ionic Ceramic Tourmaline Straightener, Frederic Fekkai Glossing Cream, Ojon Hydrating Styling Cream, John Frieda Straight Answer Styling Spray, Philip B. Drop Dead Straightening Baume, ISO Tamer Smoothing Defrizzing Gel, Paul Mitchell Super Skinny Serum.

Jennifer Riley is a senior of Beauty Addict Magazine http://beautyaddictmag.com For more articles on beauty trends, visit the Beauty Addict Magazine Blog at: http://beautyaddictmag.com/blog/

8 Spray Tanning Tips

With the recent surge in the popularity of tanning, many people are flocking to salons to use tanning booths or beds to build and maintain a healthy tan, but some people are still leery of the effects of ultraviolet light, and other people simply cannot afford to pay for tanning sessions.

One of the best alternatives to indoor tanning is sunless tanning, which offers a realistic looking tan from a bottle. These products come in cream, gel, or spray-on form, and there are benefits and drawbacks to each. If you choose spray-on sunless tanning, a number of things can be done to improve the results. You can have your tan sprayed on at a tanning salon, or you can apply it yourself.

Whichever option you choose, here are a few tips for spray tanning, to make sure the application goes smoothly.

1.Exfoliate - All the self-tanner in the world will do you no good if it attaches itself to dead skin that is about to come off your body! Use a loofah sponge in the bath the night before you self-tan to remove these dead skin cells.

2.Moisturize - Applying a good moisturizer a few hours before you self tan is a great way to make sure your skin is ready to accept the self-tanner.

3.Choose your clothes carefully - You should pick clothes that cover all the parts you do not wish to tan. Self-tanning nude is not recommended for newcomers, because the results can be unpredictable. Make sure you select tight fitting clothes so that the self-tanner cannot go under your sleeves. You should also choose dark colored clothes, since spray tanners will stain light clothes.

4.Use gloves - Nobody looks good with orange palms, so when you spray tanner on your hands in order to tan your face, don a pair of latex gloves to prevent stains.

5.If you are going to a tanning salon, follow the instructions! Self-tanning booths typically have a handout, so read up, and make sure you know what to do!

6.BLOT - After applying your spray tan, you will need to blot your skin with a towel to catch any drips.

7.Stand still - Standing still for about 30 seconds after a self-tanning booth application will ensure that your tan dries evenly. While it may take a lot longer to dry completely, the first minute or more is when you run a real risk of rubbing off the self-tanner before it has a chance to work.

8.Protect your feet - Because they typically get less sun than the rest of you, your feet are paler and may get dark faster. If you are spraying yourself, go lightly on the feet. If you are using a booth, use the paper booties (usually offered by staff) to protect your feet and apply a self-tanner later on to ensure you get the right shade.

? 2004-2005 www.Tanning-Advisor.com. All rights reserved.

About The Author

Angie Maroevich is an athlete, arts and crafts enthusiast, and a tanning salon owner in Petaluma, California. Her articles on skin care and tanning advice can be found at http://www.tanning-advisor.com.

angie@tanning-advisor.com

How Much Does A Nose Job Cost

Nearly all plastic or cosmetic surgery is considered elective, which means health insurance does not pay for it. This means you need to have a grasp of the full cost of nose job surgery.

How Much Does A Nose Job Cost

Nose job is a term which really refers to nose molding or nose forming, and it is one of the world's most common plastic surgery procedures. Many people choose to have it performed because they are unhappy with the shape and size of their nose, and want to improve the look of their face. Once you've decided to have nose job, the second question many people ask is, ?What is the cost of a nose job??

As with any medical procedure, the cost of nose job differs depending on who performs the surgery, where it is performed and what resources are needed to complete the surgery. A nose job is one of the few plastic surgery procedures that can occasionally be covered by insurance. Coverage can arise when the surgery must be performed for medical reasons such as to correct a breathing problem. If your nose job is purely cosmetic, you will need to pay for your surgery out of pocket.

The cost of a nose job generally runs from about $3000 to $6000, depending on the exact procedure to be performed. Where the surgery is completed is also a major factor. If the nose job must be done in a hospital instead of an outpatient surgery center or office, the cost will be higher. It will also depend on whether a local or general anesthetic is required to complete the surgery. If a general anesthetic is needed, the cost will be higher as an anesthesiologist will need to be present for the surgery.

Other factors that come into play for the cost of nose job are the fees for pre- and post-operative care, any other facility fees, and your location in the country. Nose jobs can be more expensive if the plastic surgeon is well known or in a high demand area such as Atlanta, Beverly Hills or New York City. The degree of difficulty of your procedure will also be a factor. Obviously, the longer the surgery takes, the more it will cost.

The cost of a nose job should never be the only deciding factor in choosing a plastic surgeon or surgery facility. You will want to take into account whether you feel comfortable with the surgeon, as well as the doctor's experience and other qualifications. Always choose a board certified plastic surgeon with experience in nose job and any other procedures you want to have. Make sure to look at before and after pictures to get a feel for the results the doctor has previously produced for other patients.

Ricardo de Silva is with PlasticSurgeonPractices.com - a directory of plastic surgeons. Visit us to read more plastic surgery articles.

Body Massage: The Healing Touch

Most of us experience this feeling of just giving up our fatigued bodies to a masseur who will massage away all the aches and pains caused by physical stress and mental tensions. The pain just seems to vanish out of your system once it is their expert hands. If you keep dreaming about this on your low days, well you are probably not alone for massage is a known stress reliever. Massage at its best has the power to restore the individual physically, mentally and spiritually.

What is a full body massage? How to massage?

Technically, full body massage is a hands-on manipulation of the skin, muscle and joints to relax muscle spasm, relieve tension, improve circulation and hasten elimination of toxins and wastes from the body. Massage is an ancient art. It has been known to be in practice in the Orient for over 3000 years. The expert hand of the masseur not only rubs away fatigue inducing stress but also improves blood circulation in the body. Apart from creating a pleasant sensation on the skin, it also works on the soft tissue (the muscles, tendons and ligaments) to improve muscle tone. Although it mainly affects the muscles just underneath the skin, its benefits may also reach the deeper layers of muscle and possibly even the internal organs.

Massage Therapy: Alternative medicine?

An essential part of alternative medicine, massage has gained popularity in the West too and is widely used to treat a variety of ailments. Different forms of massage include - Acupressure, Athletic Massage, Polarity Massage, Reflexology, Rolfing, Shiatsu, Sports Massage, Swedish Massage, Traeger Massage and Watsu. Aromatherapy massage makes use of aromatic essential oils known for their stress relieving effects. Manipulation of soft tissues affects many of our bodily systems; hence massage therapy stands to help many of the health problems we face today.

General Benefits of Massage

? Soothing relaxation
? Healing
? Eases tension, stiffness and pain
? Improves breathing
? Improves circulation
? Enhances well-being

The therapeutic benefits of massage

? Massage aims to develop, maintain, rehabilitate or augment physical function.
? Boost immune system function, improve circulation and speed up recovery time.
? Relax tight and tense muscles
? Ease or prevent physical dysfunction and pain.
? Reduces overall stress and fatigue
? Massage therapy is effective in the control of pain - chronic or acute, stress reduction and in creating a sense of soothing relaxation and well-being.
? Massage can be fun and can be wonderfully sensual; it can be an effective tool to revive a sagging sex life. Erotic Thai massages or even simple massages are a great way to begin a night of intimacy.

Full Body Massage helps you relax!

Although even a one odd massage does leave you with a pleasant feeling, the effects of massage are cumulative and undergoing a series or course of massage treatments, is what will give you the maximum benefits. Regular massages strengthen and tones the muscles and boosts the entire body mechanism, so as to prevent unnecessary strains and injuries. Massage has the power to stimulate the nervous system as much as it can relax, hence it can be used, depending on the individual's need.

Kevin Pederson has been managing a number of natural home remedies websites which have information on home based natural cures and remedies for some of the most common illnesses and health problems

Foods for Healthy Skin

There are certain foods that are very good for your skin and beauty. You need not to spend money on cosmetics when you can take cae of your skin at home in a natural way. eat the following foods for a healthy glowing skin.

Almond Oil
Almond oil is good for dryness of the skin and for removing scars of old pimples. Ground the outer cover of 3-5 almonds in with water and apply over the face daily.

Apples
Apply juice of green apples for fine wrinkles, cracked skin, itching and inflammations.

Apricots
Apply fresh juice of apricots on face good for sunburn, itching, and eczema.

Cucumber
Apply cucumber juice or grated cucumber over the face for skin eruptions.

Fenugreek
Apply a paste of fresh fenugreek leaves in water over the face every night and washed with warm water in the morning for preventing pimples, blackheads, dryness, and wrinkles.

Garlic
Rub raw garlic on the face for persistent pimples. The pimples will disappear without scars with repeated applications.

Groundnut Oil
Mix 1 tsps groundnut oil with 1 tspn fresh lime juice to prevent formation of blackheads and pimples .

Honey
Apply honey (1 tspn) mixed with water for all skin blemishes. This will turn your skin glowing.

Lime Juice
Apply fresh lime juice mixed to a glass of boiled milk as a face wash for pimples blackheads, and cracked skin.

Mint
Apply fresh mint juice over the face every night for the treatment of pimples, insect stings, eczema, scabies, & other skin infections.

Orange
Apply a paste of ground orange peel (dried) with water for acne/pimples.

Papaya
Apply and drink the juice of raw papaya including the skin and seed for treatment of swelling pimples, acne, or any abnormal growth of the skin. It also removes whiteheads, boils, and spots.
Rub raw or ripe papaya on your face to get a smooth and glowing skin.

More remedies for hair loss and thinning of hair are given at Foods for healthy skin & skin care treatment.

Copyright, 2005, www.FatFreeKitchen.com

[Please note that this article is not a subsitute for medical advise. You have permission to publish this article in your web sites, ezines or electronic publication, as long as the piece is used in its entirety including the resource box, all hyperlinks (clickable) and references and copyright info.

This article has been written by http://www.fatfreekitchen.com

Visit the web site skin problems like, age spots, blackheads, whiteheads, dark circles under eyees and stretch marks for more hair loss remedies and natural beauty treatment.

The Truth About Beauty

Why this fascination with beauty?

The demand for beauty services in spite of the economy?

Even when there is a recession, beauty parlours still flourish. Beauty products still fly off the shelves.

There is this saying that beauty is skin deep.

Then again, first impressions count.

Put it this way. Beauty is power. That was true centuries ago. That is true today.

When a beautiful woman walks into a bar, men flock to her and offer to buy her drinks. When an unattractive woman walks into the same bar, chances are, she would have to buy her own drinks.

A beautiful salesperson, man or woman is more likely to win the sale. Between a beautiful job seeker and an unattractive one, all other things being equal, the employer is likely to choose the good looker.

Like it or not, looks do count.

In the past, when women were dependent on men to support them, beauty was everything to a woman. A beautiful woman would have more suitors. She would be able to marry up. To marry a rich man who could take care of all her financial needs and that of her children. Long before commercial cosmetics existed, mothers would instruct their daughters on traditional beauty remedies. Simple beauty remedies like using mayonnaise as a moisturizer, or egg white as a firming mask were often used by women in the days before commercial cosmetics.

Then along came women entrepreneurs like Estee Lauder and other women from around the world. They converted traditional beauty recipes which worked for themselves into beauty creams that they sold to other women. Every woman has a right to look her most beautiful and these women were selling others their beauty secrets.

Make up was used to paint women's faces. In Egypt, the nobles, royalty and the well off would paint their eyes with khol, with crushed beetles and exotic ingredients. In Europe, women would paint their faces with make up containing toxic mercury for the sake of beauty. In Japan, the geishas would whiten their faces with creams that contain nightingale droppings.

You would think by now, we modern women would have learnt our lesson. Now, we just inject poison into our faces to paralyze our facial muscles in order to prevent expression lines from deepening as we grow older. Think of those botox injections done every 3 months to erase those wrinkles. Think of the acids we smear on our faces to smoothen them. The dermabrasion procedures done at the dermatologist in order to smoothen our skin.

Women all over the world have always been willing to suffer for the sake of beauty. Long ago, in China, women in wealthy families would bind their feet. The Chinese back then view tiny feet as beautiful, so little girls have their feet bound, to prevent them from growing big and ugly. Now that long legs are considered beautiful, some women go through a very painful medical procedure that breaks their legs, and stretches their legs by a few millimeters a day through a painful device until they attain the height they want. With their newfound height, these girls can look forward to a wealthy, glamorous future as an international model.

In Europe, centuries ago, wasp waists and curvy bodies were considered beautiful, so corsets were worn to make the waist look much smaller. These were tied so tightly that women faint easily. All for the sake of beauty. Now, corsets are in again. These days, women and men subject themselves to surgery to attain the beauty they desire. Liposuction to remove the excess fat to contour the body. Breast augmentation for bigger breasts that are considered beautiful. Nose jobs, face lifts, the works.

Thankfully, there is also a return to natural beauty remedies. This time, commercial cosmetics use natural ingredients that women have used for centuries in the home beauty preparations. These are effective and great for the skin.

What we women really should do is to focus on inner beauty, and to keep ourselves healthy. Health is beauty.

8 to 10 hours of sleep every night, fresh food, fresh air, daily exercise, drinking plenty of water every day, soap and water, or cleanser and toner, moisturizer where necessary and sun protection all day long. All that keeps your body healthy and your skin and hair, beautiful. Oh, and learn to age gracefully. After all, aging is a natural process in life.

The writer is the webmaster of Cosmetics Online, where you can find cosmetics, skincare, makeup and all the beauty products from your favourite beauty brand.

Is Your Face a Nightmare After Christmas?

The party's over and the morning after Christmas brings along the dread of watching your haggard face in the mirror. Hectic partying does that for you -- let's face it. And so we might as well start looking for ways to beat the post party face catastrophe.

WATER YOUR BODY

Your body needs it as much as your plants do! Late nights and alcohol can bring about serious depletion of moisture from your face. Drink as much water as possible throughout the evening. If it is not possible to drink much water during the party, be sure to drink a glass when you come home, before going to bed.

Next morning, over a couple of hours, try to drink a whole bottle (at least 750 ml) of fluids like water, herbal tea (jasmine or chamomile also helps hangovers), lemonade, fresh fruit juices etc. For the rest of the day, keep spritzing your face at regular intervals. You could also go in for a light, fruit-water based moisturizer.

SENSITIVE SKIN

A healthy, glowing skin, if heaped with lots of various makeup ingredients, takes no time to turn into an irritable, sensitive skin. Try to use mild and protective products and don't punish your face by applying a little bit of everything you can find in your makeup box.

Find ways to maximize your look with minimal cosmetics. Always cleanse, tone and moisturize before you apply your makeup. It keeps makeup from looking chalky and also acts as a protective layer.

C-L-E-A-N-S-E

Remove all traces of makeup from your face as soon as possible. Cleanse well before going to sleep that night and cleanse again in the morning.

Besides water, use good quality makeup removers and make it a must to use a good eye makeup remover for the eyes.

Over cleansing can strip protective oils from your skin and make your skin more sensitive. But since its absolutely essential that you remove your makeup when you return, use a gentle cleanser. A cream-based cleanser is the gentlest.

Don't forget to tome and moisturize after you have removed your makeup. Massage your skin with an enriching moisturizer for about 5 minutes to stimulate circulation and glow naturally.

EYE CARE

If you are beginning to get dark circles due to lack of sleep and poor circulation, use an eye cream.

A great remedy from the kitchen is to place potato or zucchini slices on your eyelids for about 5 minutes and apply slight pressure. This helps to drain out excess fluid and soothes your eyes.

PUFFY FACE

The best way to deal with a puffy and zitty face is to cool it down. The 'tried and tested' used tea bags and cucumber slices work well. Another remedy is using ice cubes of rosewater. Chill a tray before leaving for parties and rub it all over your face in the morning.

You can also grate a cucumber, soak a cotton ball in it and wipe your whole face with it. Fifteen minutes in a steam room or a cold shower also works wonders for a puffy face.

So now there's nothing to stop you from enjoying your Christmas and New Year Parties and Bashes. Just get equipped to beat the post-party face catastrophe and party hard!

Lata Tokhi is the Founder and Editor of Dot Com Women (http://www.dotcomwomen.com), a premier women's website and fast-growing online community. For more beauty tips and advice, makeup tricks, interviews with famous Fashion personas, seasonal styles and trends, visit the 'Beauty & Fashion' channel at http://www.dotcomwomen.com/beauty

Selecting a Professional Body Waxing Salon

When performed properly, waxing can be one of the quickest and longest-lasting hair removal methods available. However, done improperly it can be painful and dangerous, risking infection, deep tissue bruising, and torn muscle tissue, and worse. This is why finding a skilled, safe, and clean professional waxing salon is an important part of this hair removal method.

First, you'll want to scout out the prospective salons. Ask your friends, look online, look in the yellow pages. Remember, a good salon will have good things said about them.

Once you have several places in mind, time to get out the phone and make some calls. Talk to the aestheticians. Some questions you may want to ask, are... How long has she been waxing, and where did she train? What type of wax do they use? Is it hard wax, soft wax, or do they actually use sugaring? What does their procedure and consist of? Do they use any powder or lotion? What does their sanitation consist of? Also pay attention to her mannerisms. A good waxer should be friendly and make you feel comfortable. If she is cold or seems reluctant to talk about her methods this not a good sign. Also you'll want to discuss cost and the area you want to be waxed.

Now, once you have a feel for your prospects, pay them a visit and check out their facilities. Talk to the employees, they should be friendly and personable. Get a feel for the place. Everything should be clean and neat, akin to a doctor's office. Ask if you can view the area where the waxing is performed. It should likewise be clean and tidy.

So far so good. Time to schedule a visit. Remember, during the waxing procedure if anything makes you uncomfortable or concerned, you can tell them to stop right there. After all, this is your money and you deserve acceptable, professional treatment for it.

Prices can range from $30 to $100, depending on the area to be waxed and quality of the salon.

by Greta of http://hairemoval.blogspot.com/

Natural MakeUp: Organic Ingredients Make a Better Product

What makes an ingredient natural? More and more leading make-up companies are responding to the demands of today?s educated market and offering their customers make-up containing natural and organic ingredients. Women - and more and more men - are realizing the benefits of leaving behind the man-made ingredients used in cheaper cosmetics and looking for the quality and results that come from natural make up. Cosmetics that have been made using quality ingredients - natural products close to the original state, and, whenever possible, organic certified.

One of the most popular ingredients you find in any natural make-up is almond oil. It is excellent for dry, rough skin and very sensitive skin. You will see it used as a base in massage oil, body lotions and many many bath products. Because it is so gentle it can be used on even a baby?s skin. Almond oil is a natural moisturizer and protects then skin beautifully- making it a great choice for those is drier climates. Adding a few drops of your favourite essential oil, such as rose oil or lavender to almond oil makes wonderful massage oil.

Using natural and organic certified products only serves to enhance the healing qualities of natural ingredients. Reputable companies will not indulge in cheap mass produced ingredients such as petrochemicals, lauryl sulphate, parabins, laureth sulphate and low grade alcohol. Alcohol, which is used as a preservative is still an ingredient - but only food quality and plant derived - such as beet root. Fragrance and colors are never artificial ? artificial scents and additives are to be avoided when looking for a true natural make-up.

You will see the ingredient grape seed extract in a myriad of products. It has restorative properties and is a valuable ingredient in natural make-up - especially face creams and moisturizers. Grape seed extract comes from the tiny seeds of red grapes. Grape seed is extract is rich in anti-oxidants - in fact there are more antioxidants found in grape seed than in vitamins C and E. Grape seed extract will help maintain the skins? elasticity and is a key ingredient in any face cream.

Another ingredient listed on many cosmetic and natural make-up labels is Lemon Oil. You will most often find this in bath and body products, massage oil, lotions and foot care. Lemon oil is derived from a cold pressing of lemon peel. In quality natural cosmetics the oils will come from certified organic fruit. Lemon oil is believed to have energizing properties- often leaving the user feeling refreshed and invigorated.

Rose oil, sometimes called rose otto, is a popular ingredient found in many natural make-up and skin care lines. Be sure it is ?rose oil? and not ?rose essence?, which in most cases is synthetic. Synthetic rose oil has no healing benefits or therapeutic value. Rose oil is often used in skin care because of its gentleness - it is suitable for almost all skin types - especially dry or very sensitive skin. It?s also a much sought after ingredient in natural make-up because it has been attributed to the relief of depression, anxiety, spasms, tension, stress and menopausal problems. You will often see rose oil used in many bath products because of the relaxing and calming effect it has on the user. Rose oil?s delicate scent is thought to increase perception and for this reason and it is believed to have aphrodisiac properties.

Natural ingredients, organic certified ingredients are important to the quality and effectiveness of the products you put on your skin. When you are choosing a natural make-up, look at the labels and try and get a better understanding of what you are putting on your skin - and what is being absorbed into your body. Knowing what is safe and what is effective will help you make better decisions about the products you buy. Using natural sources such as plants and herbs rather than synthetic man-made chemicals is always a better choice. Look for high-quality ingredients, ingredients that are not synthetic and are certified organic on the products you buy.

LJ Bronart is freelance writer in Toronto, Canada. She hopes to promote the organic products and the use of more natural make up.

Prevent Dental Stains Without Chemicals

Do you wish your teeth were whiter? Some people have off-white teeth naturally, probably through their genetic inheritance. Others get stained teeth over time for a variety of reasons. If you would like to brighten your smile but don?t want to put the time or money into commercially whitening them, here are a few suggestions for doing it on your own.

1. Limit your consumption of tea, which contains tannic acid. This substance can darken teeth gradually over time, as evidenced by the stains left in teacups used for serving this beverage. You also may want to cut back on cola products, which has a similar but lesser effect. Any foods with deep colors, like blueberries, can leave stains on your tooth enamel. So be sure to brush your teeth after eating foods like these.

2. Rinse your mouth after eating. For best results, try to rinse with water even after snacks, including pop or candy bars. This will prevent foods from sticking to or staying with your teeth, where they can adhere to the enamel and cause stains to appear gradually. At work, use the drinking fountain or bathroom sink for a quick rinse. The quicker you rinse, the better results you will have. Some people even carry small bottles of mouthwash for a quick gargle after lunch.

3. Brush your teeth at least twice a day. Morning and evening are the best times, or following two of your main meals. This will help to remove food bits that can cause discoloration or decay. You can use whitening toothpaste if you prefer, which will provide a low-key brightening effect on your teeth without the use of harsh chemicals or abrasive products. Ask your dentist to recommend a safe whitener for this purpose.

4. Ask about tetracycline substitutes. If you are prescribed tetracycline, a popular antibiotic, ask the doctor if there is a reasonable substitute, as tetracycline has been known to discolor patients? teeth, especially those who took it frequently or for prolonged periods of time. If you must take it, check with your dentist about how to combat the potential darkening effect it may have on your teeth. Other medications may have this effect, as well, so if tooth color is a problem, ask your doctor about the potential for discoloration for any prescription you receive, or simply inquire about those you should avoid.

One alternative is to merely accept your teeth the way they are. Unless they are extremely yellow or darkened, most people will not notice them, and they should pose no particular health hazard. Another option is to try a home whitening treatment that you can do yourself. This will save money and time, but it involves a bleaching process that probably uses peroxide or another chemical. Ask your dentist about the advisability of this type of product if you are thinking of trying one. Society views white teeth as an indication of good health and wholesome hygiene, not to mention physical attractiveness, so make the most of your pearly whites.

For more information on how to prevent dental stains without chemicals, Visit The Denture Spot

The Maharishi Ayurveda Approach to Beauty and Skin Care with Nancy Lonsdorf M.D.

?Every person is born perfect. Inferiority is a mistake of the mind, a cloud covering the light. Dissolve the clouds by observing a balanced life with healthy habits. Nourish your mind and body. Connect with your own inner self. Celebrate your own magnificence and your beauty will always shine through.? -Dr. Rama Kant Mishra, renowned Ayurvedic physician and dermatologist

The Three Pillars of Beauty

Maharishi Ayurveda (MAV), the modern, consciousness-based revival of the ancient Ayurvedic medicine tradition, considers true beauty to be supported by three pillars; Outer Beauty, Inner Beauty and Lasting Beauty. Only by enhancing all three can we attain the balanced state of radiant health that makes each of us the most fulfilled and beautiful person we can be.

Outer Beauty: Roopam

The outer signs of beauty - your skin, hair and nails - are more than just superficial measures of beauty. They are direct reflections of your overall health. These outer tissues are created by the inner physiological processes involved in digestion, metabolism and proper tissue development. Outer beauty depends more on the strength of your digestion and metabolism, the quality of your diet, and the purity of your blood, than on external cleansers and conditioners you may apply.

General Recommendations for Outer Beauty

As we will discuss, the key to skin care is matching your diet and skin care routine to the specific skin type you have. Meanwhile, there are some valuable recommendations for lustrous skin, hair and nails that will be helpful to everyone, regardless of skin type.

1. Diet: Without adequate nourishment, your collagen layer thins and a kind of wasting takes place. Over time, your skin can shrivel up like a plant without water from lack of nourishment. To keep your skin plump and glowing:

A. Eat fresh, whole organic foods that are freshly prepared.

Avoid packaged, canned, frozen, processed foods and leftovers. These foods have little nutritional value and also they are often poorly digested which creates impurities that localize in the skin. The resulting buildup of toxins causes irritation and blocks circulation depriving the skin of further nourishment and natural cleansing processes.

B. Favor skin nourishing foods.

Leafy green vegetables contain vitamins, minerals (especially iron and calcium) and are high in antioxidant properties. They nourish the skin and protect it from premature aging.

Sweet juicy fruits like grapes, melons, pears, plums and stewed apples at breakfast are excellent for the skin in almost everyone.

Eat a wide variety of grains over different meals and try mixed grain servings at breakfast and lunch. Add amaranth, quinoa, cous cous, millet and barley to the wheat and rice you already eat.

Favor light, easy to digest proteins like legume soups (especially yellow split mung dhal), whole milk, paneer (cheese made from boiling milk, adding lemon and straining solids) and lassi (diluted yogurt and spice drinks).

Oils like ghee (clarified butter) and organic, extra virgin olive oil should be included in the diet as they lubricate, nourish and create lustre in the skin.

Use spices like turmeric, cumin, coriander, and black pepper to improve digestion, nourish the skin and cleanse it of impurities.

Avoid microwaving and boiling your vegetables. They lose as much as 85% of their antioxidant content when cooked in this way. Steaming and saut?ing are best.

Caring for outer beauty through knowledge of skin type

Besides these general recommendations the key to Outer Beauty is to understand the difference in skin types so you can gain the maximum benefit from your individualized skin care regimen. MAV identifies three different skin types based on which of the three main metabolic principles (doshas)- present in everyone, but to different degrees- is most dominant in your body.

Vata Skin

* Description: Vata is composed of the elements of air and space. If you have a vata skin type, your skin will be dry, thin, fine pored, delicate and cool to the touch. When balanced, it glows with a delicate lightness and refinement that is elegant and attractive. When vata skin is imbalanced, it will be prone to excessive dryness and may even be rough and flaky.

* Potential problems: The greatest beauty challenge for vata skin is its predisposition to symptoms of early aging. Your skin may tend to develop wrinkles earlier than most due to its tendency to dryness and thinness. If your digestion is not in balance, your skin can begin to look dull and grayish, even in your 20?s and 30?s. In addition, your skin may have a tendency for disorders such as dry eczema and skin fungus. Mental stress, such as worry, fear and lack of sleep, has a powerful debilitating effect on vata skin leaving it looking tired and lifeless.

* Recommendations for care

With a little knowledge, you can preserve and protect the delicate beauty of your vata type skin. Since your skin does not contain much moisture, preventing it from drying is the major consideration. Eat a warm, unctuous diet (ghee and olive oil are best) and favor sour, salty and sweet tastes (naturally sweet like fruits, not refined sugar) as they balance vata. Avoid drying foods like crackers. Drink 6-8 glasses of warm (not cold for vata types!) water throughout the day and eat plenty of sweet, juicy fruits. Going to bed early (before 10 PM) is very soothing to vata and will have a tremendously positive influence on your skin. Avoid cleansing products that dry the skin (like alcohol-based cleansers) and perform Ayurvedic oil massage to your whole body (abhyanga) in the morning before you shower.

Pitta Skin.

* Description: Pitta dosha is composed of the elements of fire and water. If you have a pitta skin type your skin is fair, soft, warm and of medium thickness. When balanced, your skin has a beautiful, slightly rosy or golden glow, as if illuminated from within. Your hair typically is fine and straight, and is usually red, sandy or blonde in color. Your complexion tends toward the pink or reddish, and there is often a copious amount of freckles or moles.

* Potential problems: Among the many beauty challenges of pitta skin types is your tendency to develop rashes, rosacea, acne, liver spots or pigment disorders. Because of the large proportion of the fire element in your constitution, your skin does not tolerate heat or sun very well. Of all the three skin types, pitta skin has the least tolerance for the sun, is photosensitive, and most likely to accumulate sun damage over the years. Pitta skin is aggravated by emotional stress, especially suppressed anger, frustration, or resentment.

* Recommendations for care

Avoid excessive sunlight, tanning treatments and highly heating therapies like facial or whole body steams. Avoid hot, spicy foods and favor astringent, bitter and sweet foods which balance pitta. (Again, naturally sweet, not chocolate and refined sugar!) Sweet juicy fruits (especially melons and pears), cooked greens and rose petal preserves are especially good. Drinking plenty of water helps wash impurities from sensitive pitta skin. Reduce external or internal contact with synthetic chemicals, to which your skin is especially prone to react, even in a delayed fashion after years of seemingly uneventful use. Avoid skin products that are abrasive, heating or contain artificial colors or preservatives. Most commercial make-up brands should be avoided in favor of strictly 100% natural ingredient cosmetics. And be sure to get your emotional stress under control through plenty of outdoor exercise, yoga and meditation.

Kapha Skin.

* Description: Kapha dosha is composed of the elements of earth and water. If you have a kapha skin type your skin is thick, oily, soft and cool to the touch. Your complexion is a glowing porcelain whitish color, like the moon, and hair characteristically thick, wavy, oily and dark. Kapha skin types, with their more generous collagen and connective tissue, are fortunate to develop wrinkles much later in life than vata or pitta types.

*Potential problems If your skin becomes imbalanced, it can show up as enlarged pores, excessively oily skin, moist types of eczema, blackheads, acne or pimples, and water retention. Kapha skin is also more prone to fungal infections.

* Recommendations for care

Kapha skin is more prone to clogging and needs more cleansing than other skin types. Be careful to avoid greasy, clogging creams. Likewise, avoid heavy, hard to digest foods like fried foods, fatty meats, cheeses and rich desserts. Eat more light, easy to digest, astringent, bitter and pungent (well-spiced) foods as they balance kapha. Olive oil is the best cooking oil and a little ginger and lime juice can be taken before meals to increase your characteristically sluggish digestive fire. Take warm baths often and use gentle cleansers to open the skin pores. Avoid getting constipated and try to get some exercise every day to increase circulation and help purify the skin through the sweating process.

Inner Beauty: Gunam.

Happy, positive, loving, caring individuals have a special beauty that is far more than skin deep. Conversely we all experience the quick and deleterious effect on our skin from fatigue and stress.

Inner beauty is authentic beauty, not the kind that shows on a made-up face, but the kind that shines through from your soul, your consciousness or inner state of being. Inner beauty comes from a mind and heart that are in harmony, not at odds with each other, causing emotional confusion, loss of confidence, stress and worry. Inner peace is the foundation of outer beauty.

Maintain your self-confidence and a warm, loving personality by paying attention to your lifestyle and daily routine and effective management of stress (I highly recommend the TM technique for its scientifically-verified benefits on mental and physical health and reduced aging.) You will also be healthier and feel better through the day if you eat your main meal at midday and make a habit of going to bed early (by 10 PM is ideal.)

Remember, kindness, friendliness and sincerity naturally attract people to you. On the other hand, being uptight or tense makes people want to walk the other way, regardless of your facial structure, body weight, or other outer signs we associate with attractiveness.

Lasting Beauty: Yayastyag

In order to slow the aging process and gain lasting beauty there are two additional key considerations beyond those already discussed,

1. Eliminate toxins and free radicals in the body: The main deteriorating effects of aging come as toxins and impurities (called ama in Ayurveda) accumulate throughout the body. These toxins may begin as free radicals in the body, or over time may become oxidized into free radicals, all of which contribute to premature aging in the body. For lasting health and beauty it is essential to avoid and neutralize free radicals, to prevent impurities of all kinds from accumulating and to remove those that have already become lodged in the body.

The most powerful cleansing therapy in Maharishi Ayurveda is panchakarma therapy, a series of natural treatments ideally performed twice yearly, that involves 5-7 days in a row of massage, heat treatments and mild herbal enemas. Ayurveda emphasizes the importance of undergoing this cleansing program once or twice a year to prevent impurities from accumulating, localizing and hardening in the tissues. Just as we change the oil in our cars regularly for optimal performance and lifespan, Ayurveda recommends that we cleanse the ?sludge? from our tissues on a regular basis through panchakarma treatments.

Best of all, panchakarma treatments are luxurious, blissful, and make you feel (and look) completely rejuvenated in just a few days time. I have had many a patient who told me that friends asked them afterwards if they had gotten a facelift, they looked so fresh and youthful!

Other free radical busters include: reducing mental stress, eating antioxidant foods like leafy green vegetables, sweet, juicy fruits and cooking on a daily basis with antioxidant, detoxifying spices like turmeric and coriander.

2. Add rejuvenative techniques to daily living:

The daily activities of life in the modern world systematically wear us down and speed up the aging process. Ayurveda maintains it is crucial to practice daily rejuvenative regimens to counteract the stressful wear and tear of everyday life. According to Ayurveda the most important rejuvenative routines for your life are:

Going to bed by 10:00 PM. This simple habit is one of the most powerful techniques for health and longevity, according to MAV.

Meditate daily. Any meditation that does not involve concentration (which has been shown to increase anxiety) can be very helpful. I highly recommend the twice-daily deep rest and enlivenment of the Transcendental Meditation (TM) technique, whose benefits have been verified by over 700 published research studies.

Eat organic, whole fresh food that is freshly prepared. There is an Ayurvedic saying: Without proper diet. medicine is of no use. With proper diet, medicine is of no need. Be sure to avoid those leftovers, processed and microwaved foods for better nutrition and vitality.

Perform Ayurvedic oil massage in the morning (abhyanga). Morning oil massage purifies the entire body, reduces anxiety and stress, helps prevent and heal injuries and supports circulation. It is especially helpful in creating a radiant complexion and keeping your skin youthful. Research shows it may also help prevent skin cancers.

Practice yoga asanas. Maintaining flexibility and circulation is key to health.

Practice pranayama (yoga breathing) techniques. Pranayama enlivens the mind and body. Ideally practice the following sequence twice a day. Asanas, pranayama and meditation.

Summary

Everyone's unique beauty shines forth when they have radiant health and personal happiness. Beauty is a side effect of a balanced, fulfilled life. Supreme personal beauty is accessible to everyone who is willing to take more control of their health in their day-to-day life through time-tested principles of natural living.

For most of us, beauty is not a gift but a choice. Every woman can be radiantly beautiful simply by beginning to lead a healthier life. You will be rewarded by the glowing effects you will see in your mirror each day and the powerful, bliss-producing effect your special beauty has on everyone in your life.

About The Author

Nancy Lonsdorf M.D. received her M.D. from Johns Hopkins and did her postgraduate training at Stanford. She has studied Ayurveda with some of the world's most renowned Ayurvedic physicians in India, Europe and the U.S. Dr. Lonsdorf has 17 years of clinical experience with Ayurveda and is currently the Medical Director of The Raj Ayurveda Health Center in Vedic City Iowa.

Dr. Lonsdorf has authored two books on Ayurveda and women's health:

A Woman's Best Medicine (Penguin/Putnam 1995 ; ISBN 0-87477-785-2) describing the Ayurvedic approach to the major issues in women's health

A Woman's Best Medicine for Menopause (Contemporary/McGraw Hill 2002; ISBN 0-8092-9335-8) describing the Ayurvedic approach to menopause

Doctor Lonsdorf's contact information is:
Nancy Lonsdorf M.D.
1734 Jasmine Avenue
Vedic City, IA 52556
641-472-8246
web site url: http://www.ayurveda-ayurvedic.com/

info@ayurveda-ayurvedic.com

African American Skin Care

The fact is that any type of skin condition can happen regardless of the pigment of skin you have. When it comes to African American skin care and others with darker complexions however, there are a few skin care problems that are much more prevalent.

Here are five of the most common African American skin care issues?

Acne

Acne is a chronic disorder characterized by excess production of oil from sebaceous glands causing the hair follicles generally on the face, chest and back to become plugged. Pimples, papules, pustules and comedone, (black heads and white heads) cysts and infected abscesses can be treated in acne. Acne affects most teenagers to some extent. However, the disease is not restricted to any age group; adults in their 20s - even into their 40s - can get acne. In regards to African American skin care, acne may result in long lasting discolorations of the skin. Therapy is the same for all skin types but it is very important to use topical agents that minimize irritation of the skin.

Ingrown Hairs of the Beard (Razor Bumps)

Another African American skin care issue is Ingrown Hairs. African Americans have curved hair shafts and this is true of beard hair as well as other body hair. Often after a very close shave, the pointed hair may curl back into the skin and it may pierce the wall of the hair follicle, causing a reaction resulting in bumps called pseudofolliculitis barbae. If you can, growing a beard is a viable option for helping this.

African American men should try different methods of hair removal if they suffer with ingrown hairs, which are also called razor bumps. Shaving with a special type of safety razor that does not permit a very close shave may help. Do not stretch the skin during shaving and don't shave on a daily basis. If hairs become ingrown, lift them up with an alcohol-cleaned needle (don't tweeze or pluck) just before shaving. Sometimes using a rough washcloth before shaving can help to loosen hairs about to grow inward.

Hair removal chemicals do remove hair but should only be used once a week. They must be wiped off promptly according to package directions and wash your face twice with soap and water immediately afterwards to guard against irritation.

Permanent removal of hair performed by an experienced Electrolysis Operator may be an effective solution and there are new medicated creams that may slow hair growth and help. Be sure to consult your dermatologist about treatment options.

Variations in Skin Color

African American skin has larger melanosomes (cells that determine skin color ) and the melanosomes contain more of the pigment melanin than those found in white skin. Because of the protective effect of melanin, African-Americans are better protected against skin cancer and premature wrinkling from sun exposure.

Post inflammatory hyper pigmentation is quite common in dark skinned individuals, even after minor trauma. An area of the skin may darken after an injury such as a cut or a scrape, or after certain skin disorders such as acne. To avoid or reduce post inflammatory hyper pigmentation, avoid picking, harsh scrubbing, and abrasive treatments. Darkened areas of skin may take many months or years to fade, although topical (surface) bleaching agents may help. Also chemical peels (using alpha and beta hydroxyl acids) and microdermabrasion can be helpful.?

Vitiligo

Vitiligo is a common African American skin care condition where pigment cells are destroyed and irregular white patches on the skin appear. Many dermatologists think that the cause of this common disorder is an autoimmune process, where the cells of the body attack the pigment producing cells.

The extent of color loss differs with each person; some people lose pigment over their entire bodies. Some patients with vitiligo do not regain skin color, however some cases of vitiligo do repigment. See your dermatologist as soon as possible, as the extent of the disease will determine the appropriate treatment. .

Several skin care methods are used to treat vitiligo, but none have been perfected. Topical medications, including corticosteroids and new non-steroid anti-inflammatory preparations are commonly used. In cases where vitiligo affects most of the body, it is sometimes best to destroy the remaining normal pigment. A dermatologist can determine what treatment is best based on the extent of the disease.

Keloids

When the scar from a cut or wound extends and spreads beyond the size of the original wound, it is known as a keloid. Keloids may vary in size, shape, and location. They occur more often in brown or black skin making this a very common African American skin care issue.

Keloids are a common skin care issue on the ear lobes, neck, chest, or back, and usually occur after an injury or surgery. Occasionally they occur spontaneously, especially on the mid-chest area. Keloids often follow inflammation caused by acne on the face, chest, and back.

Keloids may be painful both physically and emotionally (from a cosmetic perspective), but it's important to address keloids primarily as a medical, rather than cosmetic condition.

Depending on the location of the keloid, skin care treatment may consist of cortisone injections, pressure, silicone gels, surgery, laser treatment, or radiation therapy. Unfortunately, keloids tend to return and even enlarge, especially after treatment with surgery.

Find more great information on not just African American skin care but all skin care needs. Find up to date and step by step skin care articles, resources, products and the latest skin care news. Visit us today at http://www.Skin-Care-101.com

What Can You Do About Facial Hair Removal?

Your face is the first thing that people see. The last thing that you want is to have ugly facial hair causing others to look at you. And, it is just uncomfortable. Is there any solution for facial hair removal? Yes, there are many. You have options to removal much of the hair on your face including your eyebrows, the checks and chin, the upper lip and the nose hair. But, what is the right solution for doing so?

Facial Hair Removal For Men

First and foremost, men have many tools to help them with facial hair removal. For most men, the best method to use is that of shaving. If you are like most men, you realize the benefits of shaving with a good quality razor. You have a large selection of them to choose from as many companies are putting out better and better quality options. And, to make shaving less painful, there are shaving creams and gels that can help to reduce the irritation of the skin. Still, there are other options.

For The Ladies

For ladies who are fighting facial hair removal, there are fewer options but many that will work just fine. Shaving is not a good thing for most women. It can cause great irritation and is not necessary for the fine hair that most women battle. Most women are dealing with unwanted hair on their upper lip or strays here and there. In most cases, they will pluck them to rid them. Yes, it can hurt to do this, but it is a deep method of hair removal that should last several weeks. Still, there are other options available.

Depilatories: These are inexpensive solutions for hair removal of the face. If you are careful, they can be effective at dissolving visible hair. You can do this at home, but you will need to do it each time hair becomes visible.

Lasers? Electrolysis? These are also options. These offer permanent facial hair removal. By destroying the follicle in which hair grows from, the hair will no longer grow. While they can be costly, and may need to be done several times to be effective, they can actually help you to gain permanent hair removal as well as less painful ways of getting it.

Waxing: Ouch! Yes, waxing does hurt a bit but it is a great way of getting hair removal for both men and women. The hair is plucked from the root, which means that it will not grow back for several weeks. You can do this at your home or have a professional help you.

Which is the best option for removing hair from your face? The bottom line is that it is up to you. While not one method is fool proof and right for everyone, most of these methods can be done quite safely and to satisfy just about everyone?s needs.

As a beauty consultant Nicola is always evaluating new products. Visit her site at http://www.epilator.info for resources, views and information about hair removal.

Copyright Epilator.info. All rights reserved. This article may be reprinted in full so long as the resource box and the live links are included intact.

How to be Photogenic?

Everybody likes to look good. Though many people look good naturally but when it comes to photographs the images do not justify their beauty. Although, snapshots are not the exact presentations of your look or personality, they become the objects of judgment according to many people. If you do not display a photogenic face, you are often ditched or taunted by people. So it is a good idea to try to develop a photogenic face. You can have a photogenic face if the photographer takes proper care of lighting, camera angles etc. The following steps could help you look better.

Wear suitable clothes especially the ones that will add a glow to your skin tone. The color patterns should be carefully studied. Choose an angle that will reflect a good texture of your hair and show the smooth texture of your skin. Stand or sit in a proper posture to make you look smarter. Give a natural smile, because a forced smile will make you appear as if you have forcefully stretched your lips. Compare your snapshots with your friends who have a photogenic face.

When all these tips do not effectively work out, then try out digital technology by editing, cropping and artificially enhancing your snaps to look better. You can find many photo retouching service providers online.

Paul has been providing answers to lots of queries through his website on a wide variety of subjects ranging from satellite phones to acne. To learn more visit http://www.askaquery.com/Answers/qn1560.html

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What Causes Aging?

Although we experience the aging process as a progressive physical deterioration of our bodies, the aging process, according to some preliminary case studies appears to be more easily understood at another level of our being.

This is what is called the energy bio-field level. Many of us have heard of the term aura. Well this is in a small way a reperesentation of that energy bio-field. This bio-field has been shown (see Michael Talbot's The Holographic Universe) to contain embedded in it one's entire life history.

In other words, what you experience as your personality, your consciousness and the memories of your life appear to be stored in this bio-field in energy form.

I have over the last ten years been working with a new tool called the Mind Resonance Process(TM) that heals an individual of past emotional traumas which are stored in their consciousness and hence in their bio-field.

I have made repeated anecdotal observations that reveal that when such trauma is released by MRP an individual begins not only to feel younger but actually starts to look younger. These observations have inspired me to try to document the changes by monitoring age related markers such as DHEA levels and testosterone levels in middle aged men in upcoming studies.

It is known that both DHEA and testosterone levels decline in a rather predictable manner in mid life. I am planning to administer MRP to men in this age bracket to show whether MRP can be shown to reverse these trends.

What does this all mean? Well, it suggests that aging is related to the accumulated emotional trauma that we experience and carry in our bio-field as toxic information. This toxic information then cascades down (see The Divine Holographic Energy Field) and disrupts the functioning and integrity of the physical body at all levels. The result is illness and aging.

What I am now seeing with MRP is that this information can be released permanently and that this appears to re-organize the bio-field so that it can heal the body spontaneously. This appears then to manifest as a more youthful and healthy body.

Aging then, at the bio-field level appears to be the result of an accumulation of toxic traumatic emotional memories stored there as disruptive information. What is interesting is that all of this can be cleared (see Eliminating the Past and We Are Not Our Persoanlities)with MRP.

So the next question is, is aging really necessary? In an article entitled Do You Love Your Body? I make the point that it is the toxic environment created by this stored toxic information, at the bio-field level, that convinces or forces us to abandon, our physical bodies. If this environment were cleaned up however would there be as much motivation for one to choose to jettison their body? I doubt it.

I elaborate on this in a longer article entitled A Tuned Bio-Field: A New Definition of Consciousness (Parts 1 &2).

Dr. Nick Arrizza is trained in Chemical Engineering, Business Management & Leadership, Medicine and Psychiatry. He is a Key Note Speaker, Author of Esteem for the Self: A Manual for Personal Transformation (available in ebook format at; http://www.telecoaching4u.com/ebook.htm), Stress Management Coach, Peak Performance Coach & Researcher, Specializes in Life and Executive Performance Coaching, is the Developer of a powerful new tool called the Mind Resonance Process(TM) that helps build physical, emotional, mental and spiritual well being by helping to permanently release negative beliefs, emotions, perceptions and memories. He holds live workshops, international telephone coaching sessions and international teleconference workshops on Physical. Emotional, Mental and Spiritual Well Being.

Personal URL: http://www.telecoaching4u.com

Indoor Tanning Beds: How Safe Are They?

A tanning bed is a cosmetic device that emits ultraviolet radiation such as UVA and also UVB to generate artificial tanning. Historically, medical devices that emit UVA were developed and adopted for modern indoor tanning. Since UVA (Ultraviolet A of the sun) has less biological effects such as reddening of the skin than UVB (Shortwave Ultraviolet rays), these early tanning beds were considered to be ?safe?. However, it was soon realized that continued use of these devices could also cause sunburns, wrinkles, skin cancer, and were not very effective at inducing tans, so they were eventually phased out. Today, devices that emit a combination of UVA and UVB are predominantly used.

One of the strongest criticisms to the use of indoor tanning beds occurred in December, 1994, when the American Medical Association (AMA) adopted a resolution calling for a ban on the sale and use of tanning equipment, except for medical purposes. However, this resolution was rejected by the United States Federal Trade Commission (FTC), an organization that regulates the sale and marketing of indoor tanning equipment.

It has now been established that modern tanning beds and sun lamps typically emit about 93% to 99% UVA radiation - three times the UVA radiation given off by the sun. Tanning occurs when the skin produces additional pigment (coloring) to protect itself against burn from these ultraviolet rays. Continued exposure to UV rays can result in a number of unwanted complications such as eye injury, premature skin aging, light-induced skin rashes, and chances of developing skin cancer. UVB can even cause actual skin burning.

There are three types of common skin cancers - basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma ? and they are all linked to UV radiation. The first cause, according to medical research, is mutations caused the damage inflicted to DNA. Secondly, UV also activates oxygen molecules that damage DNA and other cellular structures; and lastly, localized immunosuppression, that blocks the body's natural ability to protect itself from cancer. The first two types - basal cell and squamous cell - are treatable if detected early but malignant melanoma is often fatal.

A study conducted in Sweden concluded that people who used tanning beds more than 10 times a year were seven times more likely to develop malignant melanoma than those who did not use tanning beds as often, establishing the fact that tanning beds are a major factor that contributes to the development of malignant melanoma.

Other studies have shown that over exposure to ultraviolet rays can also burn or damage the retina, and alter the structure of the lens forming a cataract, which if left untreated may result in complete blindness. Ultraviolet rays can also cause premature skin aging since a tan is damaged skin that is more likely to wrinkle and sag, and when in combination with certain cosmetics and medicines, may cause adverse skin reactions such as rashes and cold sores.

In spite of all the health risks associated with indoor tanning beds, it is estimated that 28 million Americans are tanning indoors annually at about 25,000 tanning salons around the country. The indoor tanning industry in the United States also continues to thrive, raking in as much as $2 billion a year.

Tanning HQ http://tanninghq.com/ articles and information about the tanning and keeping your body looking beautiful.