Tuesday 27 August 2013

Crows Feet

You can call crow's feet "laugh lines" or "character lines," but these slightly more flattering terms still refer to the same, inevitable sign of aging: the wrinkles that begin to form at the outside corners of your eyes when you hit your mid-twenties. They may show up earlier for people who don't take good care of their skin and later for those who do. But either way, crow's feet are all but unavoidable.
The skin on our faces stretches like a rubber band, thanks to a property called elasticity. This means that it can return to its original form after being pulled or compressed -- pretty important when you think about how much we move our faces. Unfortunately, as we get older, our skin loses its elasticity. That's why we form wrinkles and certain parts of our body start to droop. One of the main reasons for this is that our bodies' production of collagen and elastin, two proteins responsible for our skin's elasticity, lessens with age.

One way to avoid crow's feet would be to never smile, laugh, frown or squint. Since that seems next to impossible, most of us have to look into other ways of fending off those v-shaped wrinkles. For starters, you can protect yourself from the sun's harmful UV rays by using sunscreen. Exposure to UV rays is one of the most common ways our skin loses collagen and elastin, and ultimately, its ability to bounce back. If you're a smoker, you're even more at risk. Smoking kick-starts the biochemical processes that cause your skin to age faster.

That being said, you can put on sunscreen every day, never touch a cigarette and still get crow's feet. But there are a number of ways to reduce their appearance. Read on to find out how.
CREAMS FOR CROW'S FEET
When our skin loses moisture, the resulting dryness can lead to fine lines and wrinkles. There are a couple of ways to combat this. The first is simple: Drink plenty of water every day to keep your moisture levels up. The second is to use a good moisturizing cream. Here's where it gets tricky. If you've been to the store lately and looked in any of the beauty aisles, then you know how many moisturizers there are on the market. They all claim to deliver the same results -- healthier, younger looking skin. So which ones actually work?


While some over-the-counter creams -- when used regularly -- will effectively diminish the appearance of crow's feet, these remedies are unlikely to actually prevent wrinkles or permanently restore your skin's elasticity. Shop wisely and look for creams that contain active agents like retinoids, alpha hydroxy acids and copper peptides -- prescription wrinkle creams often contain the same ingredients in higher doses. If the nonprescription creams you're using don't provide the desired effect, you could consult a dermatologist to see if something with a pumped-up level of active ingredients would be appropriate.




Keep in mind that while some wrinkle creams may seem expensive, they are generally cheaper than cosmetic surgery and procedures like Botox, and, over the long run, may give you the results you seek. Different brands of cream range in price from a couple dollars to a couple hundred. Do your research. A higher price tag doesn't necessarily make a particular product more effective. Understanding how the contents of various wrinkle creams factor into the equation may help you save in the long run.

If creams won't do the trick, read on to find out how Botox can help get rid of your crow's feet.


BOTOX FOR CROW'S FEET



For some, creams aren't enough. But there's another, nonsurgical option: Botox. Crow's feet are most pronounced when you work the muscles around your eyes, so their appearance is unavoidable when you smile, laugh or squint. Botox -- short for botulinum toxin injections -- literally relaxes those muscles so they can't contract. It works by blocking the chemical signal that travels from your nerves to your muscles, telling them to function. Though Botox treatments are FDA approved and generally safe, they can result in complications if the toxin spreads beyond the treatment area, so you should only receive injections from a certified physician.


The upside of Botox is that it only takes a few minutes. The downsides are that it involves needles, it isn't cheap, and it doesn't last. To break it down, the procedure involves injecting the toxin into specific muscles around the eyes, or any other area you might want treated. There is no anesthesia so you're likely to experience some discomfort. Currently, the average cost per treatment is roughly €250. After an injection, it may take up to a week to see any results, and those can last anywhere from three to six months.




There are a few side effects that come with the procedure, including temporary bruising and headaches. While the bruising is rather common, the headaches are rare and should go away over the course of a couple of days. It's also important not to rub the treated area after an injection. Doing so may encourage the toxin to seep into your eyelid muscles, causing them to droop. Unfortunately, there is a possibility of this happening even if you don't rub the treated area, but the droopiness fades over time.



The bottom line is that while Botox can't completely get rid of your crow's feet, it will reduce their appearance significantly. If you can handle the needles and you've got the cash, you can hide those wrinkles with almost no effort on your part.


If Botox is a little extreme for your tastes, read on to find out about some cheaper, natural remedies.


NATURAL CURES FOR CROW'S FEET

When it comes to keeping the area around your eyes wrinkle free, expensive creams and procedures like Botox can be effective, but not always affordable. For those who can't shell out the money, there are more than a few natural cures for crow's feet out there, some even backed by science.


Several natural remedies have one thing in common: vitamin E. Vitamin E contains powerful antioxidant properties and is found in a number of creams that are effective against fighting wrinkles. So it only makes sense that home remedies containing vitamin E might also be effective. The first is a recipe including flaxseed oil, and all you have to do is swallow it. The oil contains vitamin E -- as well as vitamins B and C -- and has numerous other positive health benefits to go along with reducing wrinkles.



The second home remedy couldn't be easier. Simply poke a small hole in a vitamin E tablet and apply the contents directly to the affected area surrounding your eyes. You should use a full tablet on each eye.



Egg white face masks are also popular among those who favor the natural approach. First, make sure your face is clean. Then apply an egg white to your entire face (and remember to wash your hands thoroughly, since you're handling raw egg). After 15 minutes or so, the egg white will dry. When it does, just wash it off with warm water and gently dry your face. This should help tighten your skin and therefore reduce the appearance of crow's feet.



Concocting another, simple crow's feet cure is just a matter of preparing a healthy meal. Foods that are rich in antioxidants, like eggplant, asparagus, fish and olive oil can play a role in protecting the skin. Conversely, some foods -- like full-fat milk -- may elevate the chance that you'll develop wrinkles.








Tuesday 20 August 2013

Debs- Some Helpful Tips!!


Debs coming up - no time to speak?

You will want to look your best and you can. Just follow the pampering programme and make-up tips provided below by Tara Murphy, Beauty Consultant and Owner of Invogue Beauty Saloon and you will be ready to dazzle.

Perfectly polished and painted nails scream sophistication and glamour. If you want these nails for your debs remember your feet as well as your hands. On giving yourself a DIY professional manicure/pedicure, start by filling the nails and applying a small amount of cuticle cream and gently pushing the cubicles back with an orange wood stick. Do not use metal as you could damage your nail. Then apply some hand cream to soften the hands. When working on your feet remember to file down the hard skin before applying the cream. Use nail polish remover to clean away any oily film left on he surface of the nails. Then apply a basecoat to protect your nail, followed by 2 coats of your desired polish and add shine to your nails. If you want to go that extra sparkle and bling why not try some nail art designs and diamonds at your favourite Beauty Salon.


We are not all born with perfect skin but are you listening to your skin? It is trying to tell you what it needs. If you can interpret its sensations and textures you will be able to care for it much better in the future. Your skin is the canvas for your makeup; a perfect skin will help to give a perfect make up. However if your skin is dry, oily, congested etc there is only so much that your make up can do! A daily cleanse, tone and moisturize day and night with the correct products that suit your skin is vital. Then weekly it is important to exfoliate to rid the skin of dead cells and excessive oils. This is often followed by a mask for 20 minutes to leave your skin looking radiant. However if you feel that your skin is still not at its best, then a professional facial may be needed. A visit to your favourite Beauty Salon a few months before the Debs will allow the skin to be perfect for the big night especially if a few treatments are needed. Also Mum’s often enjoy coming along for a few treatments and make a day of it.

False Tans
There are many false tans on the market however the same pre and post care applies to them all:

My Favourite tans and tips on application:


SCRUB - Exfoliate for up to a week before the tan but not the day of the false tan application.
SHAVE or WAX IT -The day before the tan.
OUTFIT CHECK - Wear Dark clothing and loose fitting shoes the day of the application.
MOISTURISE - after each shower to keep up the tan, but not before or the day of the tan application.
PAT DRY - after each shower and do not rub the skin
SWEATING is a big no after the tan application. Do not carry out any exercise until after your first shower after the application
Note – If you have sensitive skin do a patch test before tanning.

Tanning is very important to get right for your Debs night. You must remember that there are different shades of false tans, so if you have a pale complexion it is better to use a lighter colour tan. It is always possible to add more tan if desired but not so easy to take it off. The most popular tans are the spray on tans. Air wraps around the tanning spray which effectively allows it to dry as you spray avoiding streaking and giving you a perfect tan in 10 minutes. If you are unsure about tans it is advisable to do a trial a few weeks in advance and not the week of the event. There are many different shades of tan that can be applied according to your skin tone and preference. Remember the tan application should be carried out the day before your big night and not the day of it!!


Make up
Your make up application is only as good as the brushes you use so use great brushes!! High quality brushes allow you to apply and blend better than anything else. At the minimum you need a fluffy powder brush, a flat eye shadow brush, a tapered blush brush and an eyeliner brush.

Foundation
You should try and get the nearest colour foundation to you own skin tone. An off colour base will make every other cosmetic you apply just look not quite right. Mixing foundation and moisturiser can give a good tinted moisturiser. If you have discolouration or spots on your skin apply concealer on the problem areas before applying your foundation. Apply foundation with a make up brush or sponge.

My Recommendation is Glo Minerals Make Up:

Powder
Set your foundation with loose powder applied with a big fluffy brush. This sets every type of cosmetic from foundation, to eye shadow to even lipstick!! Pick a loose powder with a yellow undertone to make sure that it works with your skin tone.

Also deposit extra powder under the eyes to catch any eye make up fallout. Then brush away.

Most women’s eyelids are translucent therefore looking bluer or darker that the rest of the face. This discolouration can affect the colour of the eye products that you wear. Before applying your shadow prime the lids with a special base for lids or a light swipe of your foundation followed by powder. Not only will this even the tone but it will also make your shadow last longer into your big night. An iridescent shadow opens up the eye area and gives a hint of party sparkle. To achieve the look of dark dramatic eyes use a Kohl pencil to outline top and bottom lashes and follow with a black liquid liner to top lashes only.

Eye Liner

Eyeliner Tips:

There are pencil, liquid and cake eyeliners. Pencil liners can be used above the top lashes and below the lower lashes. Liquid liners should only be used above the top lid. Cake eyeliners are used with water are used both top and bottom.

Eye Lashes
Make sure lashes are free from any make up. Curl the lashes with an eyelash curler. Then get a hand held mirror and hold it down and look into it. This will allow you see the root all the way to the tips of your lashes. This gets the best length possible, Maximise length – look down into a mirror, got it!!

False Lashes

Everlasting Lashes:

Eyelash extensions are a new method of enhancing the length and thickness of lashes. They are applied on a lash by lash basis for a totally natural look. They can last from up to 6/8 weeks. If you want that eternally feminine and seriously seductive look, then eye lash extensions are the way to go!! They should be applied a few days before your big night at your favourite Beauty Salon.

Highlighter Stick
If it is ophthalmologist tested it can be used as a highlighter under the eyebrow and high on the cheekbones and lips. They illuminate a tan nicely

Cheeks
Sweeping on cheek colour in strips in an effort to create cheekbones only succeeds in making you look dated!! For a more classic attractive look apply blush to the apples of your cheeks. Before applying, smile and apply in a circular sweeping motion for an instant fresh look. Avoid swiping the blush towards your hairline.

Lips

Current Lip Trend:

To make your lips appear fuller use a deep shade of lip colour at the outside corners of the lips. Then apply a lighter colour (similar shade) to the centre of the lips. Remember light brings forward and dark recedes. Lip gloss can then be applied in the middle of the lips to give that sexy pout effect.

Lipstick Choice
The type of lipstick depends on your individual taste. Matte lipsticks last longer but are drier in texture. Cream lipsticks give good coverage and contain moisturizers. Hydrating lipsticks are good for dry lips. Sheer lipsticks are moist and give the lips a stain. Lip glosses have the most moisture. It is best to apply your lipstick with a lip brush. 

Hope this helps!!! 
xxx

Debs Season- Hair

Debs season has arrived and I have had a request from one of my readers to do a post with some ideas for Debs Hair and Make up and some tips on preparation.

Below are some cool hair ideas!






How to master the fishtail braid:









Thursday 15 August 2013

Male Grooming

I have had a special request by one of my male readers for a post specific to men!! It was then seconded by another male reader, so here you are!!

This is a very basic guide to everyday male grooming. 
I am going to make this a regular feature on the blog so now you men have no excuses!

Having worked in a male grooming salon in Melbourne, Australia, I quickly realised some men are clueless as to what is considered basic grooming and others were on top of their game, sometimes telling us experts how it should be done!!

So with that in mind here are the basics:

Grooming: 
6 Easy Steps, 6 Great Products

Step 1: Shampoo & condition your hair

Why? Good hygiene is a must.

Clean Spice 2in1 
clean spice 2-In-1 conditioning shampoo
 Hair is stronger, smoother and polished.  The convenience of a 2-in-1 formula will appeal to the fast-paced lifestyles of today's man. 
Wash and condition your hair in one simple step with this 2 in 1 shampoo and conditioner, saving you time and money.  It offers a rich, creamy lather that will invigorate, moisturize and soften your hair. Simply lather and rinse thoroughly.

Step 2: Wash your face & body
organic facial cleanser
Why? In case you skipped over it the first time, proper hygiene is essential. 

The second step in your daily routine is to wash your face and body. And you can do both with the same product: Ormedic Balancing cleanser is ph balanced  so it's good for both your body and face. It's way better for your skin than soap bars; it freshens, moisturizes, and nourishes your skin for a clean and healthy look. While you're in the shower, apply it all over and rinse.

Step 3: Shave with shave gel
soothing shave cream 180ml

Why? Facial hair can look good at times and I personally love a bit of stubble but not using the correct shaving medium leads to irritation and a nasty rash...Not a good look!

An ultra-lubricating cream that delivers a super-close shave that won’t leave skin feeling sore. It helps skin recover from damage while preventing aggravation brought on by shaving. Contains no artificial fragrance or colour. Apply to clean, damp skin. Can be applied alone or over Pre-Shave Guard. Shave, rinsing blade often. Rinse shaved area, if desired.
Quickly calms and soothes skin before shaving. Menthol helps soothe and calm aggravation while imparting a "cool" feeling on skin. Comfrey, Aloe and Panthenol aid in skin's post-shave recovery process.


Step 4: Protect your face with a Hydrating Moisturiser
Why? Image is everything, whether you're in college or at the office, your face is the first thing people notice about you - so make sure it looks its best at all times.

The fourth step in your grooming routine is protecting and moisturizing your skin. Do it with this light, oil-free moisturizing face cream; it's fully loaded with botanicals and antioxidants, in order to combat razor burn and dry skin caused by the sun and other environmental pollutants. Micro-sponge technology (which absorbs excess oil from the skin) ensures your skin isn't left shiny or greasy after application. Apply an even layer onto your clean face every morning.

Step 5: Apply Deodorant
environmental control deodorant
Why? Put it on to prevent B.O. and avoid negative attention from those sitting next to you!!

For those of you who don't know, B.O. is short for body odor. Unlike other underarm products that simply mask odor, this anti-itch formula contains tea tree oil designed to combat bacteria at the source. Apply daily.


Step 6: Style your hair
get groomed finishing cream
Why? It's your hair; you have to make sure it's looking good at all times.

This premium hair paste provides complete control; it works on long or short hair, whether damp or dry. Rub in a little for a natural look or slightly more for hairstyles that require extra control. 


So there you have it; you have passed your lesson on grooming.
 Twenty minutes is all you need in the morning to go through these six simple steps. 
Grooming is like riding a bicycle: once you get the hang of it, it'll become second nature.

The next post will be a little daunting to some as we delve into the unknown world of male waxing!!!

STAY TUNED :)

Monday 12 August 2013

Unwanted Lip Hair


Unwanted Upper lip hair is a problem many women have to deal with.
I had a request from one of my readers to give some advice as to what can be done to remove/prevent this.

There are a number of different methods out there to remove and disguise unwanted facial hair, unfortunately unless the hair is dark and suitable for laser hair removal it is impossible to permanently remove it.
Below I have listed the most popular options. Some of these you can do yourself at home, others should be carried out by trained professionals.


Bleach Method

Choose a cream bleach for facial hair. Cream bleach is appropriate for lightening hairs that are not completely black, just dark. It lasts for up to 2 weeks. Be sure to only choose bleach that is recommended for use on the face; since the skin here is so sensitive, you have to be extra careful to avoid irritation.
If applicable, choose a cream that suits your skin type (ex. dry, oily, etc.).
Always spot-test the cream on your skin. Apply a small dab to a sensitive but safe area (such as the skin of your inner wrist) to make sure you don’t react. Leave on for the recommended amount of time, wash away thoroughly, and wait at least another 10 or 15 minutes to make sure you don’t itch or turn red.
Wash your face.
Apply the bleach to your upper lip area. The cream should come with an applicator, but if it doesn’t, put on gloves and use a finger. Be very careful not to get it on your lip itself or near the delicate skin in your nostrils, which can cause your skin to react.
Wait most of the recommended time, then wipe away a small amount to test if it has worked. Use a cotton pad to wipe the cream away (wipe away from your nose/mouth, not toward them) and check to see if the hair is light. If not, wait a little longer.
Ideally, bleaching cream should not be used on the skin for more than 10 minutes because it’s so hard on the skin. If your cream recommends more time than this, test it at the 10-minute mark anyway; if it has worked, remove the rest.
Wipe away the remaining cream. Again, use cotton pads or something similar to wipe up the cream and don’t get it on any sensitive areas.
Thoroughly rinse your skin. Rinse more than you think you need to so that no residue will irritate your skin.


Wax Method

 Ideally you should always visit a trained professional for waxing, it is very quick and you know they are going to do a good job.

 But if you would prefer to do it at home, here is some advice:
Choose a wax that is appropriate for facial hair. Waxing removes hair entirely. You can either get spreadable wax and strips or ready-made strips that already have wax applied (which is the tidier option for home waxing if it's your first time).
Waxing is only possible if the hairs are long enough for the wax to catch on. If you aren’t willing to let your hairs grow long enough to do this, either look for a short-hair wax (some claim to be able to wax as little as 2mm of growth) or use another option listed here (such as bleaching).
Heat up the wax if necessary. Most waxes must be warmed up, but wax strips are sometimes the exception. Read the instructions on your box for details.
Spread wax over the upper lip area. Use the applicator that comes with the kit to spread it carefully, avoiding the delicate skin on your lips.
Apply a strip over your mustache area. Start on one side and smooth it firmly over the entire area, avoiding folds and air pockets.
Quickly rip the strip off on one motion. It will take the wax and your hair with it, but be warned that it will hurt the first few times you try it. Don’t rip it off slowly or in several motions; this will make things worse.
Thoroughly rinse your skin. Make sure not to leave any residue.
Manually pluck any hairs you missed. If your upper lip is still sore from the waxing, you may want to wait a while before doing this.


Depilatory Cream Method


Choose a depilatory cream that is appropriate for facial hair. Depilatory creams painlessly cause hair to fall out from the root, but because the chemicals involved in this process are harsh, it’s best to select a cream designed for delicate facial skin.
Spot-test the cream. Apply a small dab to a sensitive but safe area (such as the skin of your inner wrist) to make sure you don’t react. Leave on for the recommended amount of time (read the box for instructions), wash away thoroughly, and wait at least another 10 or 15 minutes to make sure you don’t itch or turn red.
Spread a thick coat of cream over your upper lip. You can do this with gloves if you prefer, but since the cream needs time to take effect, you can also use you bare hands and then wash thoroughly with soap and water.
Wait most of the recommended time, then wipe away a small amount to test if it has worked. When possible, it’s better to use it for less time to prevent your skin from becoming irritated. If it’s not ready, wait a little longer.
Wipe away the remaining cream. Use cotton pads.
Thoroughly rinse your skin. Rinse more than you think you need to so that no residue will irritate your skin. If some hairs do not come off easily, just try rubbing them gently with water. If that doesn't work, take a bath. The steam coming from the bath should make tough hairs come out on their own.
Manually pluck any hairs the cream missed.


Epilator Method

Choose an epilator that’s appropriate for facial hair. An epilator is a hand-held device that pulls hairs up by the root when moved across skin. The plucking heads on a body epilator will be too big to use on the upper lip, so you’ll have to shop around for a slim model designed for facial hair.
Epilating is only possible if the hairs are long enough for the epilator to catch. If you aren’t willing to let your hairs grow long enough to do this, use another option listed here (such as bleaching).
Hide your lips by pressing them together. This will not only make the skin above the lip easier to access, but also keep your delicate lip skin away from the epilator.
Slowly run the epilator over the skin above your upper lip. Unless you’re very used to plucking these hairs, be warned that it will probably hurt. You will get used to this with time, but in the beginning, it will be uncomfortable.
Start with the slowest speed. Until you get the hang of epilating. Manually pluck any hairs you missed. If your upper lip is sore, you may want to wait a while before doing this.


Electrolysis or Laser Removal Method

Weigh the benefits of each method. Both of these have the potential to be permanent solutions (after enough treatments) and can help people whose lip hair is due to hormonal imbalances, for example.

During electrolysis, a tiny needle is inserted into the hair follicle, where it creates a current that kills the root of the hair. It’s a tedious, one-hair-at-a-time process – that needs to be repeated many times – but since the upper lip is a tiny area, this won’t matter as much.

During laser-hair removal, a laser is used to zap many hair follicles at once and kill hair at the root. You need fewer sessions than with electrolysis, but it’s significantly more expensive. Because the lasers are best at targeting dark hairs that stand out against light skin, it’s not ideal for dark-skinned or light-haired people.
Carefully research locations, practitioners, and prices. Some places have better machines, more qualified specialists, and happier reviews than others. Never choose a location based on their testimonials.
You nedd to have realistic expectations. While laser hair removal and electrolysis can have permanent effects and work wonders for some people, they can also be painful and are not guaranteed for everyone. Also the treatments can be painful and expensive. If possible, talk to other people who’ve had it done for their advice or call in to your local salon for a consultation. Most salons offer free consultations.

Tips

Don't go in the sun for 24 hrs after waxing to prevent your upper lip from getting a pigmentation.
The best time to get rid of your upper lip hair is before bed. That way your skin has all night to get over any redness, irritation, swelling, etc.

Threading is a great alternative for those with sensitive skin, as it won't leave your skin red and blotchy for days. The best way to do this is to go to the salon as this is a skill very hard to master yourself.

Warnings

Depilatory cream does not work on very thick hair.
Don't do this on the day before a big date or an event!! Give your skin some time to recover.
Never use cream for longer than directed, as this may cause severe burning of the upper lip.

Don’t shave your upper lip. Because the hairs all grow back at the same length, the result not only feels stubbly, but also gives the illusion of having grown back thicker (just like a new haircut makes your hair look thicker because all the ends are bunched up next to each other).
Be careful of certain products for hair removal. Many cannot be used on the face because they might cause side effects. Some that can be used on the face will still irritate your skin.

Friday 9 August 2013

Interesting Article on Acne

Acne And Diet

acne

Milk And High-Glycemic Foods May Exacerbate This Skin Condition

I found this article online and found it very interesting.



Love/ Protect/ REFLECT The Skin You're In

The old saying; 
'You are what you eat' 
couldn't be truer!

Thursday 8 August 2013

Get the look


I received lots of complements on my make up from the weekend and inquiries about what make up I was wearing!

My foundation is Image Skincare's no.3 I conceal. I have a light dusting of glo minerals Honey Medium pressed powder over this. 

Glo Minerals Post:

Always apply foundation to your lips to even out the texture. I use urban decays lip primer and I love it! The lipstick I'm wearing is Mac Pink Nouveau.

On my cheeks I have Bare Minerals Warmth. (Ensure to use only the finest dusting of this as the colour is very deep). 
Bare Radiance from Bare Minerals was used to highlight my cheeks and the arch of my brows. 
I finished my brows with BWB hint of tint to give them more definition. 

Billion Dollar Brows Post:

On my eyes I applied a natural brown all over the lid and I used glo minerals ebony cream eyeliner with a liner brush for my eyeliner. 

Glo minerals volumising mascara to finish. 

Once you are happy with your look it is a good idea to set it with a hydration mist, I use glo minerals hydration mist, it contains a percentage of hyaluronic which helps to keep my skin hydrated throughout the night and my make up doesn't fade!