Maintaining great skin can be a challenge if you don’t know the secrets to having perfect skin. Did you know that what you eat and what you use on your skin plays a tremendous role on the state of your skin?

Regardless of your skin type, all skin types should avoid eating fried foods because these foods contain free radicals that are toxic to the vital enzymes in the body.

Other foods that should also be avoided are alcohol and caffeine, especially on those individuals with dry skin. Alcohol and caffeine are diuretics that cause the skin to lose fluids and minerals. Basically, the diuretics dehydrate the skin making it look tired and dry leading to premature aging.

A great moisturizing secret is to use food from your kitchen on your skin. For example, avocado makes an excellent moisturizing facemask. It conditions the skin leaving it feeling moisturized and looking vibrant.

Try this recipe:

Mash ½ avocado with 1 tbsp of plain yogurt.

Blend well and apply to clean skin.

Leave on for 10 – 15 minutes and then rinse off face.

Proper cleansing of the skin prior to applying any moisturizer or facemask is always recommended. It's best that the pores are completely clean for the best results

If you want to learn more about having your own spa at home and healthy living, visit www.homespasecrets.com

Jan Johnson is the founder of http://www.homespasecrets.com offering free information on creating your own at-home spa on a dime. HomeSpaSecrets.com also offers healthy living tips and information.

Before putting on those sexy, comfortable open toe shoes make sure your feet skin is in good condition. With these easy nine steps you too will have silky feet. So go ahead get ready to do your own pedicure.soak your feet for 10-15 minutes in warm water containing Epsom salt or foot soak

Use a pumice stone, exfoliating scrub to gently scrub the soles of your all over your feet and heel to remove dead skin.

Dry your feet.

Trim your toenails and push back cuticles.

Rinse feet once again and pat dry.

Massage feet with plenty of foot lotion. Body lotion, petroleum jelly or cream can be use to replace foot lotion.

Wrap feet on plastic bags and cover for at least 15 minutes.

Paint toe nails. Make sure to apply at least to coats of nail polish and a top coat of clear nail polish to give it more shine. Give it enough time to dry, before putting on any shoes. If you put on shoes too soon your pedicure will get ruin.

Enjoy your self given & low cost pedicure!

About The Author

Kenia Morales is the owner and publisher of online magazine " For Every Aspect Of Today's Woman". To find more beauty tips and other women related issues and topics visit her site at http://www.kpatra.com

keniamorales@kpatra.com

Never used a sunless tanner? Don’t sweat it…it’s a no brainer. These products are available in the local pharmacy, department store and/or from your local beauty consultant. They come in many forms; spray-on oil, foam, mousse, lotion, gel and creams. Always test a small area first, on your inner arm for instance. If you are happy with the results, then continue applying to the rest of your body. (You’re probably thinking about the time you turned your entire body orange.) Fortunately, today’s formulas are an improvement from the products of the past. Most contain a derivative of sugarcane or sugar beets that oxidizes with the top layer of the skin. This gives the skin a realistic looking tan without altering the structure or function of the skin. Since our body naturally sheds the top layer of dead skin cells regularly, you will see your tan fading fast. You will need to re-apply every two to three days, especially if you shower every day. Just refresh as necessary. A word to the wise, don’t use your sunless tanner immediately after shaving. Shaving opens up the pores and the product will find its way into those open pores, giving you a polka-dotted appearance. Also, sunless tanners do not provide protection against the sun. Don’t get lulled into thinking that the darker you are, the more protected you are! Sunless tanners provide ZERO sun protection. They are strictly cosmetic.

How to apply: The easiest way for a beginner, would be to use a cream or gel. Mousses, oils or lotions are sometimes difficult to control. Foam mousse dries fast, consequently, it can leave you with stripes, if you don’t even it out quickly enough.

Step One: Exfoliate to remove dead surface skin cells. Since the product lays only on the top layer of your skin, you’ll want to gently exfoliate around the coarsest areas like your knees and elbows. Then moisturize those same areas.

Step Two: Spread out a large towel or drop cloth to protect your floor and/or furniture.

Step Three: Pin up your hair. Use surgical gloves to protect your palms. (You don’t want tanned palms…that’s a dead giveaway.)

Step Four: Start at your feet. Apply using long, even strokes, first up and down, then across for an even distribution. You may need help with those hard to reach areas.

NOTE: Before applying sunless tanner to your face, make sure it is formulated for use on the face. You want to avoid clogging your pores.

Step Five: Finish by applying to the backs of your hands. Since your hands generally get washed and dried more frequently than the rest of your body, touch up as necessary.

Sunless tanners require a bit of practice for a perfectly sun-kissed look. But, your glowing new tan will certainly make your co-workers green with envy.

Have a Beautiful and Happy New Year!

I am an Independent Skin Care Consultant. My goal is to help my clients achieve and maintain healthy radiant skin while saving them time and money. For a Free Consultation, e-mail me at jbhull@comcast.net.

Labor Day not only marks the end of the summer season, but also summer fashion as well. I'm sure you've heard the old fashion adage, "don't wear white shoes after Labor Day!".  Does this same restriction apply to pink lip-gloss? What about lime green eye shadow? Always wanting to be cosmetic-ly correct, I enlisted the help of hair stylist & make up artist extraordinaire Shea-Shea Johnson co-owner of Thaanx 2 U Hair Salon. Shea-Shea's impressive celeb list of clients include Alicia Keys, A.J Johnson, Gary Dourdan, Kellita Smith, Kerry Washington, Spike Lee & Tisha Campbell. Anyone talented enough to powder fine @(#* Gary Dourdan's nose is definitely qualified to share beauty secrets with a wanna be like me. Read on as Shea-Shea offers us some "MAC-nificent suggestions to transition beautifully into Fall.

Changing Faces
Q. With cooler days ahead, I asked Shea-Shea if wearing hot, bright colors on our eyes and lips is breaking "the rules"?
A. "Simplicity is key. I don't follow "the rules" but I do believe in keeping it simple. If you want to wear a bright eye shadow it's important to apply it in moderation, and make sure it is blended well. The object is to not let the eye shadow over power your face.

Fall into Beauty
Q.  Can you recommend any essentials as we transition into Fall?
    A.  "Hydrating the skin is essential! Drinking water is the first step to having healthy, dewy skin.  Also, it is important to continue to use a moisturizer that contains sunscreen. Sunscreen not only protects our faces from sun damage but also acts as a barrier against cold winter weather. So skincare first, then makeup. For fall I prefer natural, earth tones like Samoa Silk eye shadow. Tan-Ray eye paint, Peaches blush, & Oh Baby lip glass, all by MAC Cosmetics.

Beauty Express
Q. With the end of summer also comes the beginning of school. For many moms with school age children, that can also mean less time in the bathroom. Any advice for looking polished in say 10 minutes?
   A. Definitely. Starting with a clean face and groomed eyebrows.
1. Lightly dust face with a MAC SPF 15 Foundation.
(Remember the key is moderation. You don't want to over powder)
2. Apply 2 coats of mascara.
3. Apply blush or bronzer. (Peaches by MAC works on just about every skintype)
4. Apply lipgloss. (Oh Baby by MAC works on just about every skintype)            

What's in Your Makeup Bag?
Q. Your going to be stranded on a desert island. What do you definitely pack into your makeup bag?
   A. Definicils Mascara by Lancome, Pink Freeze eyeshadow by MAC, C-Thru Lip Glass by MAC, MAC shadow brushes #'s 224, 252 & 266 and Fashion Fair Skin Treatment Program (Cleanse, Rinse, Moisturize) because it is so important to wash off your make up before bed!

Face Painting
Q. Thank you Shea-Shea. I've enjoyed talking "shop" with you and I've definitely added a few items to my beauty-shopping list. But I also need help with makeup application. Do you teach makeup application?
  A. I do. I give makeup consultation as well as workshops on makeup application. I also do makeovers from head to toe, and I do make up for bridal partys, special events, etc. I can be reached at (510) 262-9220 or (510) 812-8602 for an appointment.

There you have it ladies…pro tips on Fall Beauty. Of course, inner beauty is the best beauty because it doesn't wash off! But if you need a little help painting your face don't hesitate to give my girl a call…who knows you just might see Gary!

Cathy Gatson is a freelance writer and owner/operator of a hair and body salon in Northern California.

Washington DC—By J. S. Ronnette—Patients traveling the road toward whiter teeth have a dizzying array of options to choose from. There are so many whitening products and treatments out there that some dental consumers get blinded in the glare of choices. From paint-on bleaching gels to stick-on whitening strips to in-office power bleaching—what’s a white-smile-seeker to do?

The current methods break down into whitening at home and at the dental office, with a growing interest in whitening at the dentist’s office. “Many of our patients are busy professionals, and they would rather come in for a one-visit power bleaching session to get the job done right away,” says Dr. Daniel J. Deutsch, of the Washington Center for Dentistry. And many patients are not new to the world of whitening, having already tried over-the-counter techniques.

Home teeth whitening

· The brush-on method sounds wonderfully easy and unobtrusive. Just brush on the bleaching gel before you go to sleep. Let it sit on your teeth all night long and brush it off with your toothbrush the next morning.

Also considered the Lazy-Man’s whitening system, this method contains inherent flaws. The most obvious drawback is that once saliva “wets” the gel on the teeth, the bleach gets diluted and rubs off in some areas. This situation lowers the chance for an even whitening result. And no one wants that blotchy, partially bleached look!

And many of these at-home formulas contain glycerin, which is known to deplete moisture in the enamel of the teeth. This condition often leads to discomfort from sensitivity during the whitening process.

· The stick-on strips method is popular because they are simple to use. They are easy to apply and need no preparation.

But, again, the short-cut approach gives skimpy results. Here’s why: The upper and lower strips get pressed against the outer front surface of the teeth. And while they adhere pretty well, the strips cannot fit completely within the cracks and grooves that occur along the contour of your teeth. The recesses between each tooth might possibly retain their darker staining, and even might look darker against the newly bleached flatter areas. Eventually, as the whitening process progresses, teeth might appear to have undesirable, pronounced gaps between them.

In addition, these methods often use bleach at a lower concentration (6 to 10 percent), which is less effective than bleach supplied by many dental offices.

· The trays and bleaching gel method remains the most successful and efficient home whitening treatment.

A special form-fitting, soft plastic tray is made from a mold of your mouth. The tray fits snugly over each tooth. The dentist also supplies a higher concentration (16 to 22 percent) bleaching gel.

Patients wear the trays and gel for a certain period of time every day for a specific number of days—as prescribed by the dentist.

This method gets good results for patients amenable to wearing trays and gel either a few hours in the evening – or while they sleep.

In-office Whitening - Britesmile
· The one-hour power bleaching method is fast becoming the option of choice for patients seeking great results – fast!

This in-office treatment—known as Britesmile—gets high marks for quick, comfortable, easy whitening at lightning speeds.

“The Britesmile chair is often the first stop for patients getting a full smile makeover,” says Dr. Marc Doctors, also of the Washington Center for Dentistry. “They want to match their new crowns and veneers to teeth that are as white as they can get.”

The Britesmile system lightens teeth up to nine shades whiter, on average, with no harm to tooth enamel, gums or existing fillings. Teeth reach their optimum natural whiteness and reveal a smile that many patients haven’t seen in years.

The one-visit session goes like this: After examining teeth and gums, pre-whitening toothpaste is applied with a hygienist’s polisher to prepare teeth for the whitening session.

The current shade of the teeth is measured. A before photo is taken. Then, the technician protects the gums and mouth with special materials and applies the whitening gel.

Many patients relax with movies or music while a gentle blue light shines on their teeth to activate the whitening gel. The technician reapplies the gel every 20 minutes—three times during the one-hour session.

When the sessions are complete, the new shade is noted and an “after” photo records the new brighter smile for posterity.

How long does it last? Long-term results depend on the patient. Tobacco, coffee, tea, dark soft drinks and lax attention to dental care can work against the results. Regular professional care will help maintain a new “Britesmile” up to two years. Some patients maintain results at home with trays and gel.

For more information on Britesmile whitening and other cosmetic dentistry procedures in the Washington DC area, please click here.

Have you ever calculate how much money you have spent for beauty purpose in a month or a year? $200? $500? or maybe $1000 or more? Maybe it's time for you to stop wasting too much money by trying some cheaper beauty products which also will bring you the same results (or even more) compare with those expensive ones.

These are all natural homemade facial mask recipes, which you can prepare easily within minutes and the best part is: won’t cost you much!

* Normal, combination skin, oily and blemished skin

Mix one egg white, 1/2 cup cooked instant oatmeal, a teaspoon olive oil and a few drops of lemon juice until smooth. Spread on your face and neck, leave on for 15 – 30 min then rinse with lukewarm water. Few drops lemon juice will help to reduce blackheads while egg white will leave your skin feel “tight” after this mask application.

* Dry skin

Mix one egg yolk, a teaspoon honey and a teaspoon olive oil and some vitamin E oil. Spread over your face and neck, leave on for 15 – 30 min then rinse in lukewarm water. You can add more olive oil if you still feel dry on your skin.

* Dry and spotted skin

Mix dry oatmeal (you may grind it in a blender), honey and plain yogurt to make a paste. Spread it over your face and neck, leave on 15 – 30 min then rinse with lukewarm water. You may add a little salt and olive oil to make an exfoliating mask or scrub for your bocy dry skin area.

For more information about beauty, health and fitness, please visit http://beauty-health-fitness.blogspot.com and for beauty, health and fitness selected stuff, please visit http://beauty-health-fitness-estore.blogspot.com

When it comes to a glowing complexion what we put into our bodies and how we treat our skin and ourselves has a huge impact on how we look – no skin care product can overcome certain damage. Here are a few hints to take the best care of your skin and get that radiant glow.

1. Eat a balanced diet – what we put in our bodies will show on our skin. If you eat fatty foods and junk your skin will reflect that, so give your skin proper nutrition.

2. Get at least 7 to 8 hours sleep every night. A lack of sleep will show up under your eyes as dark circles or bags. Proper rest will also benefit your body and your life.

3. Drink 6 to 8 glasses of water a day to keep your skin hydrated. It is best to spread the consumption of water in small amounts over the course of the day to be sure it is properly absorbed.

4. Maintain a regular exercise schedule. Exercise gets the blood moving and creates a healthy body.

5. Get lots of fresh air but avoid prolonged exposure to wind and cold.

6. Avoid the sun and tanning beds. The damage done by ultraviolet rays is long lasting and cannot be reversed.

7. Always wear sunglasses to avoid squinting.

8. Try to achieve a well-balanced life and reduce stress.

9. Exfoliate twice a week to rid your skin of dead cells.

10. Develop a skin care routine for your particular skn type.

If you have been neglecting your complexion start right away to improve it – it’s never too late. What you do today will show up in your skin in the future. It’s up to you.

Sheila Dicks is an Image and Wardrobe Consultant who teaches women how to dress to suit their body type and look slimmer. Visit her at http://www.sheilasfashionsense.com to download her ebook, 'Image Makeovers' and get How to 'Build a Wardrobe' free.

Gone are the days when contact lenses were the domain of the visually impaired. Unpowered color contacts mean that everyone can participate in the grand optical illusion - special effects contact lenses.

Unpowered color contacts mean that no correction is made to the sight of the eye. This means of course that they will not help you see better if you are expecting an improvement in your vision, but it does mean that, with the right lenses, other people will see YOU better, and how.

Imagine wearing some stunning royal blue lenses to a dinner party. Who could resist them? Or maybe a deep green would suit you better?

Or, if you are really up for the optical challenge, you could go for some stunning special effects. Cats eye lenses are very popular, as are zebra (black and white striped). Or, if you want to make people a bit nervous, how about red eye lenses or perhaps zombie or vampire lenses for a scary effect.

The choice made available courtesy of the Internet now is huge! You can get all manner of special effects, to go with your wardrobe or just to scare people ..... Some manufacturers will even custom paint lenses for you so you can decide exactly how you would like to look.

Which ever way you look at it, color contacts can bring about a grand optical illusion, one where you disappear, and whoever you want pops up in your place!

Charlie Cory is the owner of a special effects contact lenses web site.

http://www.fx-eyes.com/unpowered_color_contacts.html

What is Emu Oil?

Emu oil was discovered by Aborigines many thousands of years ago as a skin moisturizer, antiseptic, and as an aid in the relief of sunburn, muscular aches and joint pain, as well as aiding in the healing of injuries. The emu oil is rendered from a thick layer of fat on the back yielding 5 - 7 liters of unsaturated, non-toxic, highly penetrating oil.

Over ten years of research done at Global Canyon Ranch (Texas) has revealed that the emu oil has unique thermodynamic properties. Combined with other ingredients, the oil can be used to machine stainless steel much more rapidly, thus considerable savings in labor results.

The emu oil is the greatest emollient in the world. It penetrates the skin better than mink or any other natural oil, and lacks long chain fatty acids which is conducive to a long shelf-life.

Emu Oil is considered a complete source of essential fatty acids. Essential Fatty Acids (EFA's) are fats that humans cannot manufacture or synthesize. We must obtain them from our diet. Like vitamins and minerals they are essential to the body's functions. Incredibly, this amazing oil contains omega 3,6,9 essential fatty acids and is a powerful skin moisturizer and possesses strong anti-inflammatory properties.

Emu Oil for Anti Wrinkle.

Billions of Microscopic Three-Dimensional Nanoprisms! Here's "so what." Almost nobody knows this... but... the human eye cannot see a wrinkle. What the eye sees is actually the shadow made by the wrinkle. And, since all those billions of microscopic nanoprisms refract light.

This effect will last until you wash your face and the invisible silicon dioxide is removed. And get this: Remember how I told you the main ingredient in this cosmetic cream is made from emu oil? Well, it turns out emu oil is probably the best cosmetic ingredient in the world. That's because its molecules are much smaller than the molecules in human skin.

Penetrate down through seven layers of human skin!

For more information, please check out Emu Oil Product - Deception Wrinkle Cream - Anti Wrinkle Cream

Q: With so many skin care products on the market today, how do you know which one is right for you?

A: I encourage you to become a label reader.

The latest trend in skin care marketing is anti-aging. Many women today are concerned about reversing the signs of aging as well as prevention of the aging process. With so many well known brand name products out there, it may be difficult to find the perfect most beneficial one for you. That is why I encourage you to be a label reader and know what you are putting in and on your body.

The difference between botanically based products and those that only contain botanical ingredients is simply in the recipe. Botanicals can be added to a base of ingredients such as mineral oil, drying alcohols or animal by-products. In a base like that, your skin won’t benefit from the botanicals. You are paying for useless added ingredients that do not benefit your skin or health. For example 98% of cosmetic companies use some type of petrolatum by products, mineral oil, petrolatum or petroleum, in their products. Have you ever turned your products over and read “animal by products”? No, but the labels might say collagen, elastin and lanolin. Remember that the next time you lick your lips.

Furthermore, what you put on your body, you are essentially putting in your body. Don't believe me? Put a piece of garlic between your toes, you will taste it in about fifteen minutes. Wouldn't you like to be putting something on your body that aids in beauty as well as health? The ingredients are just a important as the effects.

There is hope, I have found a company with a Swiss formulated skin care line for the whole family*. These products are hypoallergenic and formulated without dyes, chemicals, or synthetic fragrances. They are also PH correct, which is part of their pure, safe and beneficial guarantee. It is not beneficial to use a product that makes you feel squeaky-clean because the PH of skin is 5.5 and we have an acid mantel that keeps down the bacterial infections. PH balanced is what most products advertise and that is about a 7, which is too drying for our skin. A lot of the clear soap that people use on their skin is actually a 14 on the ph scale, the same as perm solution.

I hope you come away from the article with a greater understanding of the importance of skin care and the products used to achieve healthy skin. At least, I hope you have become a label reader and are aware of what you are using and what you should be using.

*Please refer to my Bio and Resource Box for more information.

Michelle Burke an Independent Consultant for Arbonne International, is a small business owner in the Consulting Services industry. My team of consultants and I have a combined experience of eight plus years in this industry. I have extensive knowledge of Arbonne's Swiss skin care line and nutritional products, and would be happy to provide advice based on your particular area of interest. You may visit my website for more information: http://www.gohealthyshop.myarbonne.com or contact me via Email: chellemybelle@pldi.net or Ph:405-694-4766.

Who can I trust to find me a best plastic surgeon?

Yourself! knowledge is power only when you use it. The more information you know about your surgeon and surgery, the more likely your chances of having a successful operation. If a company claims to have the best plastic surgeons “database,” find out everything you can about the company. Does the company specialize in researching only the best doctors ? Remember, there are many web sites: anyone can have a doctor database. The question is, do doctors pay to be listed in their database? Do they actually research every single doctor? Is the company a credible source ?

Where are the best plastic surgeons located?
Nowadays, you find them in the smallest to the biggest cities. The five most popular states where plastic surgeons practice are Florida, New York, California, Texas, and Illinois.

What should I look for when shopping for a plastic surgeon?
Tips on what to look for when shopping for a plastic surgeon?

• Always make sure the surgeon is an MD who is a board-certified plastic surgeon.
• Find out if the surgeon is fellowship trained in plastic surgery or in a field relevant to their current specialty.
• Spas and Salons are spreading like wild fire…use caution and research your plastic surgeon thoroughly.
• Go to Google and type the plastic surgeon’s name. Search for surgeons that pioneered a surgical procedure, wrote publications, taught Med students, etc. Often times, this information is displayed online.
• How many years of practice does the plastic surgeon have under their belt?

How do I select the best plastic surgeon for me?
Many services and even magazines often times list the best doctors according to surveys conducted. Their surveys are usually based on doctors who are voted by their peers. Though it’s a good starting point, it’s only one component in finding the best plastic surgeons. Here’s why:

• Surgeons are extremely busy and rarely participate in these types of surveys, so results are limited.
• Surgeons can nominate their buddies and ask them to return the favor, to attract new clientele.
• Some surgeons are asked to nominate one of their peers in a certain area only.

What are the 4 Critical Components in finding the best plastic surgeons?

• Education – They earned a degree from an accredited medical school.
• Experience – How many cosmetic surgeries have they performed?
• Recognition – Are they well recognized among their peers, patients, and medical societies, and/or involved in their communities?
• Training – Does their residency and/or if fellowship focus on plastic surgery?

Bottom line:
When having plastic surgery you will be looking at your surgeons work for the rest of your life. Doing a little homework could be a wisely investment.

Hugo Gallegos is an expert in researching & recognizing the top medical doctors in America. He is the founder & president of MDNationwide.org.

Looking for a doctor? From the top cardiologist to the best plastic surgeons Browse through our best doctor database.

If you have a love for candles, then you have probably come across or heard of “lotion candles”. A “lotion candle” is usually a scented soy candle and is advertised as being a moisturizer for your skin. According to some candle makers, you burn your lotion candle before your bath, making sure to extinguish the candle at least 30 seconds before dipping your fingers into the hot wax, and rub the melted wax onto your body as you would lotion.

I have seen many soy candle makers advertise their candles in this way. As a chandler, I find several things wrong with the practice of using any candle in this way.

1. Dyes in candles are not skin safe. Chandlers do not use skin safe dye in their candles. There are dyes for lotion that are designed to be used in cosmetics and are not harmful to the skin. Dyes for candles are much more powerful dyes and have not been tested for the skin, because they were made for candles not lotion. It takes much more dye to color a candle than to color lotion. At these concentrated levels you may experience some skin irritation.

2. Lotion candles are not made from lotion. I have heard some chandlers say that their candle is made from lotion not wax. There is no such thing as a lotion candle. You can only make a candle from some form of wax. Soy candles are made from soybean wax, which is made from soybean oil. The soy wax that is bought for candle making is not a cosmetic grade of wax. The FDA requires any cosmetic to meet specific requirements to ensure the safety of cosmetic products to the public.

3. Fragrance oils used in candles are not all skin safe. Most candle makers use up to 9% fragrance oil in their candles. Even if a chandler uses skin safe fragrance oil it is only skin safe up to 3%. Having experience making candles, I can tell you that fragrance oil in its pure form can cause a serious chemical burn. It may burn your skin in the same way acid would burn your skin. Therefore, rubbing scented candle wax on your skin may cause irritation to your skin.

4. Never dip your hands into a flaming candle. It is true that soy wax burns cooler than paraffin; however the flame of any candle will burn you severely. “Lotion candles” usually say to extinguish the flame first, but I have seen chandlers demonstrate the use of “lotion candles” at craft shows without extinguishing the flame.

5. If you have children never let them see you dip your hands into a hot candle. Soy wax does burn much cooler than other candles; however a child will not know the difference between a “lotion candle” and a paraffin candle. Hot wax on a child’s skin could cause very serious damage. So if you decide to use “lotion candles” please be responsible.

Soy candles are wonderful, but I don’t recommend using them as lotion candles. There are several lotions available to you including soy lotion that have skin safe ingredients added to it.

Amanda Arnold is the co-owner of Mamma's Primitive Hut and sells hand poured soybean candles and lotions.

Do you know that dandruff affects about 70% of the American population? Do you know that they spend $300,000,000 trying to get rid of it?

Dandruff is the most widespread problem of the scalp! But you must understand that it is not contagious and it is not a disease! Dandruff can not threaten your life, but it often threatens your mental peace.

Shedding of skin is a natural phenomenon. The skin of your scalp replenishes every month. The dead cells that previously formed your scalp now make up the dandruff.

The presence of negligible dandruff is inevitable. The problem arises only when the presence of dead cells in the form of flakes suddenly increases.

Physicians still debate what causes dandruff. Many researchers believe that it results from excessive growth of the yeast Pityrosporum Ovale that normally resides on everyone’s scalp.

Pityrosporum constitutes the major part of skin flora. You suffer from dandruff when the normal limit of 46% of Pityrosporum increases up to the 74% mark.

Factors like emotional and physical stress are no less important in triggering dandruff growth. Stress management also improves the scalp condition. Dandruff growth increases during winter compared to summer for most people.

Because you can find tons of products and medicated lotions, you do not need to worry about the dandruff problem. You just need to find the remedy that works for you.

If you suffer from mild dandruff, wash your scalp regularly to remove the excess flakes. If you suffer from stubborn flakes, treatment through a medicated shampoo is the answer.

You can use many natural remedies to treat dandruff. You need to try some to see what works for you.

You can even treat dandruff by using essential oils and herbs. If you do not mind long-term treatments, you can opt for the various home remedies. A mixture of coconut oil and lemon juice is equally effective as treatment with apple cider vinegar.

Natural remedies take time to show any visible results and need consistent use but they are effective in addressing the cause. If you want a speedy control, use shampoos containing ketaconazole.

Avoid using shampoos with harsh chemicals if you have a bruised scalp. Applying shampoos containing such chemicals on broken skin may cause irritation. If a particular product shows no results, try another with a different ingredient base.

Washing your hair regularly is important. If you find that washing your hair gives you frizzy or dry ends, the little secret to handle that is to take some conditioner and add it to the ends of your hair before washing it normally. Then condition it after shampooing, if you like to use conditioner.

One way to stop over-conditioning your hair and save you money is to put a little of your favorite brand of conditioner in a spritz bottle, with about 4 times more water. After shampooing, rinse. Towel dry, then spritz the conditioner in.

Another mistake that many people make is to put gel in their hair. It's okay to put gel in your hair if that is your styling preference. But, it builds up and causes flakes, which many think is dandruff.

Get into the habit of washing your hair more often. It's only the start of getting rid of dandruff. Think about it. If all that was required was just washing your hair more often, there would be no dandruff.

Do You Want to Have Beautiful Hair Every Day For the Rest of Your Life? Visit Hair Styles For Dummies, FREE web site that will teach you how to achieve gorgeous hair.

She was so upset that day. She could not concentrate on her work in office. Her friends started asking her what happened to her. Anything amiss? They wondered.

It was a conversation during breakfast when her husband remarked “Honey, my friend introduced his wife yesterday.” “How does she look?” “She is slim and a bit fairer than you.” Now she has started pondering on how can she can make her skin fairer and make it glow.

Beauty is an obsession of women of all ages for many centuries but how many women realise that beauty is skin deep?. External beauty does matter but the beauty of the inner soul obtains that extra glow in the skin. A not-so-looking-good violin produces wonderful music than a flashy new violin. Similar is the case of a beautiful woman who looks extremely beautiful with a make over.

Not all know that women who participate in beauty pageants have to pamper themselves for many number of days with creams and lotions and also be strict on diet and live on warm water and lemon juice most of the time. The make-up artists do an excellent work on the faces of the contestants by carving and chiseling a work of art on their faces to make their skin glow. But only when the show is over, and the artificial “everything” is removed from them do they realise how naturally beautiful they are.

The natural glow just happens if a woman has a beautiful smile, a kind heart, maintaining a good body and eat a proper diet and keep the inner soul beautiful and clean.

“If you're lookin' for a lover
don’t judge a book by its cover
She may be fine on the outside
but so untrue on the inside."

Or it might be vice versa where she might not be fine on the outside but can be wonderful inside!

Not only women. Even men are becoming more conscious of their looks because women these days consider external beauty as one of the characteristics of a lover. The increase in the number of family saloons worldwide proves that the entire family wishes to appear good.

At the same time a value education on inner beauty is also needed to make them realise that a beautiful soul glows more than a beautiful skin!

HPriya Sivan

Choosing to have plastic surgery on any area of your body is likely to be one of the biggest decisions you will ever make, and should not be undertaken lightly. Like any other kind of medical procedure, there are risks involved, and these must be carefully weighed before surgery. When it boils down to basics, anyone considering plastic surgery must decide whether the possibility of what they might gain is more powerful than the risk of losing what they already have, however unattractive that might seem.

Medical science is, it seems, improving almost every day, and so plastic surgery does not now involve the risks it once did. We all, however, have heard horror stories about people who have been permanently scarred by surgery that has gone wrong, and have even lost their lives. While we might all in theory say that we would give anything for a butt like J-Lo, we have to ask ourselves before surgery how realistic a statement this really is.

The best protection against surgery mishaps is choosing a highly qualified and experienced plastic surgeon, so do your research before selecting a doctor. The plastic surgery industry is an extremely buoyant one, and while this means that there is a huge choice of surgeons available, it also means that those who are less skilled can find a niche in the market by offering low prices to vulnerable people. This is not to say that the more expensive the better, simply that knowledge is power. Talk to former patients of any doctor you are considering, and find out how happy they were with their surgeon's work.

Plastic surgery involves an operating room that is remarkably similar to the one in which cancerous tumors are removed, and other surgeries that we would not choose to have performed unless we had to. Lives are lost in every OR, so before going under the knife weigh the risks carefully, and make sure that you are putting yourself in the hands of the best.

Steve Brink is the founder of Cosmetic Surgery a website decicated to plastic surgery.

The plastic surgery has become a multi-million dollar one, as both men and women employ more and more extreme tools in order to reach the ever more ubiquitous image of perfection that torments us. It sometimes seems as though the tiny people of Hollywood have been constructed entirely out of plastic in a conspiracy to make the rest of us feel like ogres. And in a world where beauty is a highly rated currency, it is little wonder that many of us succumb.

And while plastic surgery is not a bad thing in and of itself, it is still an invasive procedure as dangerous as any other type of surgery, and should not be undertaken lightly. But if the growing number of people who choose surgery every year is anything to go by, then surgery is becoming the quick fix of the masses.

But if anything needs fixing, surely it is a society where people undergo risky surgery in order to feel okay about themselves. We pride ourselves on the advancements we make as a society every moment, and while attractiveness has historically always been of value, is it not now time that we rebel against the status of beauty as the primary currency in our society? But beauty is more powerful that ever, and combined with our enormous technological knowledge, we are at a point when we have the tools to look almost exactly as we wish.

Perhaps the world of 'The Stepford Wives' is really not so very far away. As people make appointments daily for surgery that will make them look like someone else, we are at risk of losing our individuality to a cult that simply wants us all the same. They say that beauty is in the eye of the beholder, but it seems that as time progresses, we are all beginning to see through one blighted eye. What will we do once we are all finally beautiful? Perhaps then we will begin to look a little deeper. Or perhaps we our notion of beauty will change, as it has done countless time through history, and we will all be left to start from scratch again

Jeff Lakie is the founder of Plastic Surgery Resources a website providing information on cosmetic surgery.

For most women, part of their morning and evening routines involve a skincare regimen of applying creams, moisturizers, tonics, lotions, and the like. Why do women put themselves through this? To combat the signs of aging, and to maintain youthful looks and beautiful skin! However, how many women consider what is in the products they are using?

Some women probably do not realize that what they are putting on their skin may actually be undermining what they are trying to prevent to begin with. In fact the average woman puts twelve products on her skin daily, most of which maintain harmful chemical preservatives. Dr. Myron Wentz, founder and chairperson of USANA Health Sciences has this to say about beauty in the June/July 2005 issue of the "USANA Health Sciences" magazine: "Some say that beauty is only skin deep. Nonsense! I believe that true beauty is a reflection of true health, and true health begins deep inside each and every cell in the body. But true health and true beauty have an outer component, which is why we require protection from environmental insults such as solar radiation, pollutants in our environment and the drying effects of air. . . The fact is, you simply cannot contain a healthy body if your skin isn't healthy. And your skin can't be healthy if your are subjecting it to toxic substances that are ultimately absorbed into your body."

So, what can women do? How can they combat environmental pollutants, the affect of solar radiation, and the drying effects of air? How can they be sure they are using the very best products on their skin so they can be healthy inside and out? Here are 7 tips to assist in this process:

1. Be very aware of what is in skincare products. Use products that are all natural as much as possible.

2. Look for products that contain Dermal Surface Renewal Technology. DSR smoothes away existing signs of aging such as laugh lines, crows feet, and dullness.

3. Use products that have regenisomes. Regenisomes penetrate the skin to speed cell renewal after sun exposure. They also use the light of photosomes to undo sun damage, and have ultrasomes to renew skin while sleeping.

4. Find products with Proteo-C and Proflavonol-T. These two vitamins protect the skin from premature aging caused by the sun, pollution, and other environmental factors. They also provide advanced nutrition to the skin to keep it appearing smooth and firm.

5. If possible, use products that are paraben free. Parabens are synthetic chemical preservatives that are widely used in personal care products such as shampoos, conditioners, hair styling products, make-up, facial masks, skin lotions and creams, and deodorants. They also are typically found in baby lotions, shampoos, and other personal care products for infants and children. In addition, parabens are in many foods and pharmaceutical products. Researchers are beginning to find parabens in benign and malignant human breast tumors. While some studies have challenged their toxicity in many products and question their long term affect on humans, using products that are paraben free can eliminate the risk of exposure to this harmful chemical.

6. Drink plenty of water! Water hydrates skin and hair as well as flushes toxins out of the body.

7. Limit stress or learn to manage it effectively. Stress is harmful both emotionally and physically. Find that stress reliever activity that works best and use it on a daily basis!

Follow the above 7 tips to true beauty and health.

Monique Hawkins is an associate with USANA Health Sciences. One of her passions is supporting and encouraging others to maintain optimal health and wellness. She also has recently started an online store selling music boxes. Visit her USANA site http://www.whyusana.com/mhawkins and her music box site at http://www.my-music-box.com

It all started when I was in second or third grade. Before going to bed every night, my parents and I would read together, usually a chapter or two from a book I couldn’t yet manage on my own (the Chronicles of Narnia stand out most in my memory). Maybe I knew that I was bound to be near sighted since both of my parents were, or maybe I’d seen somebody I admired on TV who was wearing glasses, but whatever the inspiration, I had the sudden desire to wear glasses. One night I starting squinting and pulling the book closer to my face, trying to show my parents that my eyesight was failing and that I needed glasses. I must not have been very convincing because nothing came of it, and after two weeks of trying, I abandoned the act.

My First Pair of Glasses
Several years later, my eyesight really did start to decline, but now I was significantly less keen on wearing glasses than I had previously been. Instead of making a show of needing to get my eyes checked, I did all that I could to hide the fact. I succeeded in hiding it for so long, in fact, that when I finally put on my new glasses for the first time, I was stunned. I had never seen (or noticed) such detail or definition. There were individual leaves on the tree just outside the door and the sign on the other side of the street actually had words written on it. I didn’t know that a person’s vision could be this good.

It didn’t take too long, however, before I realized how much more nerdy my glasses made me look than I already was. The huge, bright-blue wire rims, though thin, were much too big for my small face. Worse still, they didn’t like to stay on my nose and were constantly slipping down. By consequence, I developed the subconscious habit of crinkling my nose in an attempt to handlessly push the glasses back up to where they belonged, a habit which inspired a new nickname of “Rabbit.” For the next three years, contact lenses topped my Christmas list.

The Great Change
I don’t know whether it was my parents’ concern that I would neglect my contact lens care or their unwillingness to shell out the big bucks that kept them from allowing me to get contact lenses. It wasn’t until I started playing lacrosse my freshman year of high school that I was finally able to convince them that getting contacts was not only a good idea but a necessity. I was lacking enough in athletic ability as it was, that practicing without my glasses was just a bad idea altogether. And when I got hit in the face with one too many balls--it was only one, but still one too many--the decision was final.

Contacts. Finally. What a dream. Had I been a little more daring, I might have gone for something crazy like special effect lenses, wild eyes, or even just colored lenses. But as it was, I was too elated to be shedding the horrid glasses to care about whether my eyes were green, brown, electric blue, or feline.

The Next Step
Since I gave up playing lacrosse long ago and my prejudice against glasses has worn off, some may say that it’s time I take the next logical step in my eye care progression and get laser eye surgery. I just shake my head and reply that I’m still quite content with my contacts and won’t be taking that step anytime in the near future. Maybe it’s because I’m poor; maybe it’s because I’m skeptical. Or maybe it’s because I haven’t forgotten what a dream it was to finally get contact lenses.

Hillary loves doing puzzles on the Internet, reading Harry Potter, and running half marathons. For more information on contact lenses and contact care, visit http://www.discountcontacts.info.

To drastically improve your skin tone simply add two to three tablespoons of - and this is a long one -

"Mediterranean...cold-pressed...extra-virgin...olive oil" to your diet. That’s oil from the "Mediterranean" parts of the world; Spain and Italy are two of the best sources of extra-virgin olive oil because they have the highest polyphenol content or anti-oxidant content.

"Cold-pressed and extra virgin", that’s the extraction process for getting the oil out of the olives. That process has the lowest acidity.

So your goal should be to get two to three tablespoons of Mediterranean cold-pressed extra-virgin olive oil into your diet every single day. Olive oil promotes a whole host of health benefits. But, again, we’re only here today to focus on how we can best leverage this nutrient to help us...look and feel younger now.

And here’s the top two ways to use this oil to help you do just that: Number one, by ingesting it. Consuming two to three tablespoons of oil can reduce inflammation in every area of your body, internally and externally, including your skin. And inflammation in your skin is the primary cause of wrinkles. So by ingesting oil we’re helping to reduce the signs of aging from the inside out.

Number two, the second way to use this oil to your benefit is to use it as a skin lotion all over your body one or two times per day and, again, as often as you need on any of the wrinkled or dry areas that you’ve got. What that’s going to do is it’s going to be "evening out" your skin color, it’s also going to increase the radiancy of your skin, and it’s going to add elasticity to all the dry areas.

This oil will reduces inflammation whether you put it on your skin topically or you ingest it internally. It’s an amazing nutrient that has a myriad of benefits. I highly suggest that you begin using it in your normal diet.

After you've added this oil to your diet you're going to want to focus on the next technique which is all about the best (and worst) supplements to help you look and feel years younger - but that's next week...

Until then, I wish you the absolute best of health. If you need to contact me, please do so through www.AskChristopherGuerriero.com For a ton of f.ree, valuable tips, tricks, and secrets visit: www.MaximizeYourMetabolism.com

© 2002-2004 Wisdom Books, LLC & Christopher Guerriero WANT TO USE THIS ARTICLE IN YOUR E-ZINE OR WEB SITE? You can, as long as you include this blurb with it: Christopher Guerriero, is the founder of the National Metabolic & Longevity Research Center and a best-selling author, speaker, and coach to millions. He is creator of the award-winning 'Maximize Your Metabolism' system. To learn more about this step-by-step program, and to sign up for FR*EE how-to articles and F.REE teleseminars, visit www.MaximizeYourMetabolism.com

For a ton of f.ree, valuable tips, tricks, and secrets visit: http://www.MaximizeYourMetabolism.com

© 2002-2005 Wisdom Books, LLC & Christopher Guerriero WANT TO USE THIS ARTICLE IN YOUR E-ZINE OR WEB SITE? You can, as long as you include this blurb with it: Christopher Guerriero, is the founder of the National Metabolic & Longevity Research Center and a best-selling author, speaker, and coach to millions. He is creator of the award-winning 'Maximize Your Metabolism' system. To learn more about this step-by-step program, and to sign up for FR*EE how-to articles and F.REE teleseminars, visit http://www.MaximizeYourMetabolism.com

Every patient has their own individual needs for plastic surgery. Reshaping the buttock to the region of one’s body can be performed by a procedure called the buttock lift. Depending on the patient, sometimes liposuction and implants are also used to compliment the procedure and produce a more desirable shape.

Patients who have a large amount of loose skin on their buttock region are perfect candidates for a buttock lift. The operation will remove the extra skin and lift the buttock which results in an optimal position with tighter skin and a better texture. Although incisions are made during the procedure scars can be placed so that they are hidden beneath a swimsuit.

Occasionally buttock lifts are performed on patients who have also undergone tummy tuck or liposuction procedures. This procedure helps remove excess fat from the body but will sometimes leave behind loose skin that has lost its elasticity. On the other hand, some patients desire a fuller buttock shape which requires the use of implants. These implants are made of a material that can’t rupture, deflate or spill. This procedure is referred to as buttock augmentation.

Buttock lifts have gained popularity in the United States as of late. There has been a 152% increase in these procedures between 2002 and 2004. In 2004 there were approximately 4000 buttock lift procedures performed.

To learn more about Buttock Lifts and other cosmetic surgery procedures please visit http://www.resource4cosmeticsurgery.com. This article may be freely reprinted as long as this resource box is included and all links stay intact as hyper links.

Long gone are the days when a set of contact lenses were the domain of the visually impaired. These days, non prescription lenses are available to all, even if you are blessed with 20:20 vision. In fact, most of the special effects lenses available on the internet have 0.00 power, which means that they do no alter your vision at all. These types of lenses in particular, like cats eyes for example, are ideally suited for those just wanting a set of lenses to wear to the party, parade on the dance floor or just to frighten your unruly neighbours!

A cat's eye contact lens can be quite striking, especially if the color resembles your natural eye color. Your friends will notice the change, but the effect will be very subtle. Many movie or rock stars now use special fx lenses away from their place of work, purely for the cosmetic effect. And a very powerful effect it is too!

Imagine the scene at a night club, as you casually walk towards someone you would like to impress, with your eyelids down and head bowed, then raise your head, smile, and open your eyes wide right in front of them. Wow! Wouldn't that be a spectacular introduction?

Just make sure you don't ask for your drinks in a saucer ....

Taking Care of Your Eyes

========================

Despite the fact that lenses like the cat's eye effect are particularly suitable for non prescription cases, you should still take great care with them, and seek professional advice to ensure that your eyes do not suffer from improper use. If you have poor eyesight already, you may be familiar with contact lenses and be able to fit them with confidence. If however, your vision is good, how will you know how to:-

* Insert your lenses into your eyes, and later how to remove them.

* Clean your lenses properly

* Store your lenses correctly

Each of these points is critical to the long life of your lenses, but more importantly, to the continued good health of your eyes. The correct fitting of your lens is important for your own comfort, because a loose fitting lens will float away from the eye. A good fitting lens will also help avoid scratching of the cornea when you try and remove them.

And don't share your lenses with your friends. A guaranteed way to pass eye infections such as conjunctivitis and worse between you.

Charlie Cory is an internet entrepeneur. FX Eyes is his latest enterprise, specialising in special effects contact lenses.

http://www.fx-eyes.com

Make your hair shine and your skin glow with these all-natural Skin and Hair Nourishing masks & recipes, that you can whip up with just a few simple, easy-to-find ingredients.

Egg yolks are widely acknowledged as one of nature's best moisturizers. Here are a couple ultra-rich masks to "deep condition" hair and skin.

1.Egg Yolk & Honey Facial Mask

(Best for dry skin types)

Mix Together in equal proportion

• Honey

• Egg yolk

• Almond oil

• Yogurt.

Honey stimulates and smoothes, egg and almond oil penetrate and moisturize, and yogurt refines and tightens pores.

2.Egg Yolk, Avocado & Mud Facial Mask

(Best for oily skin types)

Clay or fuller's earth mud is available in powder form at any Health food store or Nutrition outlets.

Mix Together in equal proportion

• Dry clay

• Egg yolk

• Mashed Avocado, with

• Witch hazel

Mud dries excess sebum while the egg yolk and avocado

replenish lost moisture. Witch hazel acts as a toner.

3.Fruitamins Hair Mask

In a blender mix

• 1/2 Banana,

• 1/4 Avocado,

• 1/4 Cantaloupe,

• 1 tablespoon Wheat germ oil

• 1 tablespoon Yogurt.

For extra conditioning, squeeze in the contents of a vitamin E capsule. Leave in hair for 15 - 20 minutes.

4.Fruitamins Face Mask

In a blender mix

• Strawberries

• Pineapple

• Banana

Apply to the face and leave it for 15 - 20 minutes, Wash off to find a glowing face.

Well, this is one of the best solutions for females going on a date … Believe it!!

N.SRIVATHSHAN MBA(PHARMA MARKETING),BA SALES,PRODUCT, ADVERTISING MANAGEMENT,PHARMACY,NUTRITION&DIETETICS. PRODUCT MANAGER NANDAN BIOMATRIX srivathshan@yahoo.com http://www.geocities.com/srivathshan

Who doesn’t want to look beautiful? Everybody wants to look pretty and fresh. Taking care of your skin is one way to achieve what you hope for. Whether we like it or not, beauty does seem to affect the ease and success of an individual's life. That’s why no body wants to look pale, unhealthy and dull.

Perfect beauty is absolutely what you and all women desire. You can feel good about yourself if you have good look. Thus, skin care, hair care, and other beauty treatments should be on your program then. You will need some tips in order to make them successful. Here are some skin care treatment tips, given free just for you!

Tips for Perfect Beauty

There is no doubt that your skin needs special treatment since it is the body’s largest organ. You may not know how to take good care of your skin, how frequent you should do it, and so on. Keeping the skin moist, elastic, and smooth is one of the best ways of skin care treatment. Look at these helpful tips below:

1. The first thing you must know about skin care treatment is to do it regularly. You can start it from the very easy way, like washing your hands and face with a natural soap or cleanser.

2. Which type of skin do you have? Dry, normal, or oily skin? Get to know your type and use appropriate skin care products for the treatment. Consult with your beautician if you’re not sure about it.

3. Eat lots of healthy foods, namely fresh fruits and vegetables which act as great antioxidants. They are substances that prevent damage in the body caused by free radicals. Strawberries, cranberries, blueberries, tuna, and mostly seafood, as well as onions, garlic, and broccoli are great sources of food high in antioxidant.

4. Avoid smoking and stay away from alcohol. They are real skin enemies since they create wrinkles to your skin and making it dry.

5. Carry out proper treatments for your skin: clean your skin with water and free-chemicals cleansing products everyday, scrub your skin regularly to remove dead cells and smooth the skin, and moisturize it with skin lotion and cream containing high amount of vitamin E.

Those tips above are actually only a few of numerous skin treatments. You should maintain your youthful looks by always giving good care of your skin. Consuming vitamins and supplements is also a good way to do it. Don’t forget to drink a lot of water and exercise regularly! Have a healthy skin, and of course a healthy living!

About The Author: Loraine Lesley is editor for some Website concerning women. She wants to help women to look beautiful, that’s why her object features practical articles and tips on Skin Care, Hair Care, and more. To discover more of her advice, visit http://www.myskincareonline.com and http://www.myhaircareguide.com

This is a good topic to discuss especially now since the popularity of all the make-over shows. I have always been curious as to why people, mostly women, have this idea that they are expected to look a certain way in order to "fit in" with society.

We all would like to believe that quaint saying, "beauty is in the eye of the beholder", but how true and meaningful is that phrase when the beholder has been brainwashed, so to speak, into subscribing to the belief that beauty is the artificial look we see on glamour mags, in TV commercials, and even in some children's books? For some time now, that image has consisted mainly of white women and the "white standard of beauty".

I decided to take this question of plastic surgery and the search for beauty and see how it can affect some women in the African-American community. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, African-Americans make up only 6% of plastic surgery patients. Why is this? Do African-American women have a more positive self/body image or is it that many cannot afford it? And for the 6% who do have surgery, to which standard of beauty were they trying to aspire?

I chose to start my search for the white standard of beauty in 1960. I chose that year because at the time, a TV show was airing that sought to teach moral and societal lessons through fantastical tales. Two episodes of this show were very telling and prophetic, and they both dealt with how society viewed beauty and the expectations placed on women to be "beautiful". That show was, The Twilight Zone.

Beauty in 1960... Rod Serling offered us a tale of beauties and beasts in episode #42 entitled: Eye of the Beholder. Here's a brief synopsis of the show I found at The Twilight Zone Guide: Janet Tyler anxiously awaits the outcome of her latest surgery. Janet, who's abnormal face has made her an outcast, has had her eleventh hospital visit - the maximum allowed by the State. If it didn't succeed, she will be sent to live in a village where others of her kind are segregated. As her bandages are removed, she is revealed to be very beautiful. The doctor draws back in horror. As the lights come on we see the others, their faces are misshapen and deformed. As Janet runs from her room crying, she runs into another of her kind, a handsome man named Walter Smith. He is in charge of an outcast village, and he assures her that she will eventually feel she belongs. He tells her to remember the old saying: "Beauty is in the eye of the beholder." Although the show was filmed in black and white, we can clearly see that Ms. Tyler is Caucasian. The doctors appear to have darker skin, nevertheless, the idea here was that the viewers empathized with Ms. Tyler because she was the classic blonde, slender beauty commonly seen in 1960's fashion magazines. As the show closes, the narrator speaks: "Now the questions that come to mind. Where is this place and when is it, what kind of world where ugliness is the norm and beauty the deviation from that norm? The answer is, it doesn't make any difference. Because the old saying happens to be true. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, in this year or a hundred years hence, on this planet or wherever there is human life, perhaps out among the stars. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Lesson to be learned...in the Twilight Zone."

1964: The Standard Continues Episode #137, in Season Five, is called, "Number Twelve Looks Just Like You", and was adapted by a short story called "The Beautiful People". In this episode, we meet Marilyn, a young woman who is about to go through a rite of passage in her community. This rite is called "The Transformation" and it requires citizens to choose among several models of bodies into which they will be transformed. The message here is that this society only sees one standard of beauty and that one will not be happy unless they look and act just like everyone else. Opening Narration: "Given the chance, what young girl wouldn't happily exchange a plain face for a lovely one? What girl could refuse the opportunity to be beautiful? For want of a better estimate, let's call it the year 2000. At any rate, imagine a time in the future when science has developed a means of giving everyone the face and body he dreams of. It may not happen tomorrow--but it happens now, in the Twilight Zone."

Once again, the beautiful people are all white and we don't see any women or men of color. What was this episode trying to tell black women about beauty? The closing narration: Portrait of a young lady in love--with herself. Improbable? Perhaps. But in an age of plastic surgery, body building, and an infinity of cosmetics, let us hesitate to say impossible. These and other strange blessings may be waiting in the future--which after all, is the Twilight Zone."

Beauty 40 Years Later

Some aspects of beauty standards have changed, but not much. We do see more black models and beautiful black women, but when you look at the majority of the more famous ones, (Tyra, Halle, Janet, Vanessa Williams, Beyonce, a few of whom have had plastic surgery, on their noses and other body parts), you can see straight away that they have many Caucasian attributes: small, pinched noses, lighter complexion, lighter eyes, straight, lightly colored hair. It is rare that you will see a model with very dark skin, a tight afro, wide, round, larger nose, and full, large lips. Flip through any issue of Vogue or Glamour and look for that image I just described. Then look for the first image I described.

So, are black women trying to aspire to the white standard of beauty when they seek plastic surgery?

According to Cynthia Winston, assistant professor of psychology at Howard University in Washington, D.C., We really don't know much about how blacks are influenced. Most of the research focuses on perceptions related to skin color. Foe most African-Americans, perception can be shaped by their environment. For example, an African-American woman growing up in an all-white neighborhood in Nebraska may be more likely than an African-American woman raised in inner-city Detroit to compare herself with white images of beauty.

(Source: African-American Women & Plastic Surgery: Self-Improvement or Self-Hatred? By Angela D. Johnson, Sept. 2, 2003)

Now What?

I suppose, it all comes down to how one feels inside about themselves. But there is this viscous cycle of doubt that women constantly face so it's often hard to reconcile your inner voices with the outside images thrown at you everyday. Many women buy into the trends and fashions that dictate beauty. TV shows and print ads abound with images of sexy women. Fitness clubs persuade women to join not so they will lower their risk of heart disease, but so they will aspire to be beautiful on the outside. No one tries to sell things that will help them on the inside.

In the end, you can look at all of this and say that there will always be standards of beauty and those who aspire to live up those standards, and those wanting to make a profit off those standards (cosmetic companies, ad agencies, modeling agencies, fashion designers, plastic surgeons, psychotherapists). The media portrays what people want to see and apparently, it's sex and "beauty".

Ms. Martin currently resides in sunny Southern California with her son. When she's not writing, she works part-time as a preschool teacher where she hopes to help all children develop positive self and body images.

So you are getting on a tanning bed. What next??

No tanning experience is complete without the use of the entire range of quality tanning bed supplies. In much the same you love a fine-dine restaurant than just the taste of the food, tanning bed supplies give the extra zing required to make a tanning bed stint truly powerful. In this article, you will learn about the complete range of tanning bed supplies available in the market today and be able to make informed decisions on what suits you best.

Apart from the tanning bed itself, tanning bed supplies include tanning lotion, sunless tanning accessories, tanning bed bulbs, pillows, goggles among others and also engineering parts of the tanning bed that can serve as up gradation. Most of these supplies are commonplace items in your local supermarket and should not be too hard to find. However, for high grade and specific tanning supplies, you might have to do some amount of research. Trust us when we say that the time spent on searching for the right product almost always justifies the use of the product and so is the case with tanning bed supplies.

For instance, a mind boggling variety of indoor tanning lotion as a part of tanning bed supplies is available. Therefore, the choice of a tanning lotion to buy purely depends on your budget, your skin nature and the period of use. Choosing from a wide range of high performance tanning beds and high-end variants right down to discount tanning lotion is an exercise one should go through, for the sheer learning from the experience. For the more technically informed, one can indulge in choosing between the best buck boosters available for your bed and add-on UVA/UVB meters.

The world of options for tanning bed supplies is virtually limitless and its just a matter of a little effort in finding the right product for you. Remember, 'Nothing venture, nothing gain!'.

Happy tanning!!

Visit our articles section at Tanning Articles and Resources for more such practical tanning advice and tips.

© 2005,Yaksha Patel. This article is courtesy of Tanning Wonders - Making Tanning work for you!

You may publish it at no cost, as long as the links are left intact, made live, and this notice stays in place.

Today’s world has a staggering 75 million contact lens wearers, with 31 million living within the United States. Though it might seem as though this is an awfully large number of people who opt not to wear glasses, there are actually quite a few people who are wearing non prescription contact lenses to alter their look, but not their vision. Non prescription contact lenses are a unique way to change your appearance by way of your eye color, whether making a dramatic change, or a slight enhancement.

As long as you first visit an optometrist, you’ll know the correct size so that you can find the contact lens that it best suited to your eye. After a brief period of initial adjustment, most people discover that they can’t even feel their non prescription contact lenses anymore.

There are a number of different kinds of non-prescription colored contacts out there. Opaque coloured lenses are able to transform even the darkest natural eye color into a brighter or lighter shade. These lenses are clear in the center so that the wearer can see through the pupil, but the colorless part is surrounded by a wall of color. This allows for the most dramatic change even on the darkest background.

For those who have lighter eyes, enhancement lenses are usually the more natural option. These are still available as non prescription coloured contacts, but instead of being completely opaque, they augment the wearer’s natural eye tint with more subtle and flattering hues.

For people who have a wilder streak about them, then there’s a broad range of non-prescription novelty contact lenses that are currently all the rage. You can now look like an alien, as though you have cat’s eyes, flaming eyes, or any other possible appearance that you could ever want. Essentially, if you want it, they have it.

Surprisingly enough, changing the look of your eye isn’t the only reason that non prescription contact lenses exist. Many hospitals and clinics will utilize a special type of clear lens as a sort of bandage for the cornea, especially after the patient has undergone surgery for a cateract. Also, sports players and fanatic spectators will choose to use contact lenses that include filters for certain lights and colors so that they can better see the ball or whatever other target they may need to see.

No matter the reason that you choose to buy non prescription contact lenses, they’re certain to be comfortable and satisfying for you. Take advantage of a free offer from your favorite brand, and give them a “test drive”, so that you know that you can use them comfortably and without irritation.

http://www.buy-contacts-now.com

Many people think that drastic measures are required in order to have flawless, youthful skin. Nothing could be further from the truth. It’s possible to have better looking skin starting with things you already have in your home; no cosmetic surgery or expensive makeup required!

Healthy skin is moist and produces adequate amounts of oil from the sebaceous glands, producing a natural “glow.” Plump skin cells fit together like a carefully constructed mosaic, where each one has its own place. When skin cells dry out, however, they begin to lift and separate at an angle, giving skin a dull, flaky look that makes the skin appear older.

The two main causes for dry skin are environmental factors (weather, chemicals, the use of the wrong personal care products) and poor diet. In order to look great on the outside, you must first treat yourself right from within. A regular balanced diet is the number one defense against wrinkles, outbreaks and dry skin conditions. However, certain foods have properties that are most important for that glow that we crave. Here we’ll talk a bit about some of these foods, and you’ll see how quickly you can achieve radiant skin without breaking the bank.

Most moisture for your skin is provided through your bloodstream. The bloodstream is responsible for pumping nutrients and minerals into your system which are carried through that moisture. Without being properly hydrated, nutrients and minerals in your bloodstream may never reach your skin, making them useless in keeping your skin youthful. The oil that your skin produces is not directly responsible for moisturizing, but instead helps to keep moisture in. An inadequate amount of oil will allow excessive evaporation or the moisture in your skin, allowing it to dry out quickly.

Foods rich in protein are essential for skin regeneration and repair. Not just any protein will do. The Atkins diet, which boasts of it low carb dieting results, allows for many types of protein that can cause damage to your skin. Any kind of processed meat, such as bacon, hot dogs or deli meats are loaded with preservatives and salt that will do nothing but pull moisture from your skin. Better sources of protein would include seafood (salmon in particular is a very good choice), lean fowl (turkey, chicken) and vegetable protein. Veggie protein is often overlooked, as American society is accustomed to “meat with every meal.” Try tofu or beans as a high quality protein source. Morningstar Farms makes an excellent veggie burger that even meat lovers would crave if given a try!

Another healthy practice is to eat lots of raw foods every day. Canned and frozen vegetables may provide some nutrients, but only raw veggies and fruits will contain the enzymes necessary to prevent free radical damage. If you absolutely must cook vegetables, steam them lightly and eat al dente.

Certain vitamins and minerals are crucial to youthful skin, including sulfur. In its natural form from foods such as garlic, onions, eggs and asparagus, sulfur with help to keep skin smooth and youthful. You can also take an L-systeine supplement which will also provide adequate amounts of sulfur for healthy skin. A lack of either Vitamin A or B can make your skin chapped or cracked. Beta-carotene is as good for your skin as it is for your eyes. Don’t limit yourself to carrots; any type of yellow or orange vegetable is loaded with them. Good examples are squashes and peppers.

Alpha-hydroxy acids are responsible for keeping your skin pH balanced. You can get them from foods such as apples, grapes, blackberries, citrus fruits, tomatoes and milk. Essential fatty acids (EFAs) found in fish (especially salmon), dark leafy vegetables (kale, collards, dandelions) and flax seeds are also extremely important for your skin. Lactic acid helps to improve your skin’s moisture content, while glycolic acid removes dead skin cells that make your skin look dry and flaky. Eating foods containing these two EFAs will assist in healthy, glowing skin.

If you’re willing to spend a little (just a little), there are a couple of supplements that will powerboost your healthy eating habits. If you find that you can only take one supplement, let it be Vitamin E. It prevents the formation of free radicals and helps repair skin cells damaged from scrapes, burns and bruises. Aloe Vera is another skin healer as well as moisturizer, and can be used topically from the aloe plant, or consumed as a juice found in supermarkets and health food stores. Kelp is an excellent source of nutrients due to its absorption from sea water and is available in several forms.

Junk foods should especially be avoided when trying to maintain healthy skin. Eliminating soda, sugar and other empty-calorie foods will not only improve your skin’s appearance, but will help take off the extra pounds. Fried foods are especially bad, because hot-processed oils (such as those found in the supermarket) actually create free radicals and can destroy that look you’ve been working so hard for. Alcohol and caffeine should also be avoided, as these and other types of diuretics make the body lose fluids and essential minerals, which dries out your skin.

Each of these foods and supplements are easy to find in your local supermarket or health store, and will cost you much less than the myriad of skin care products which promise unrealistic results. In just a few days, you’ll notice that your skin will begin to produce adequate amounts of oil naturally, and will no longer show signs of being dull, scaly, flaky or tight. Chapping and cracking during the winter will be much less likely to occur as well. Most importantly, these tips will help you to slow down the effects of aging, such as fine lines and wrinkles, brown spots, enlarged pores and sagging skin.

About The Author

Burgundy Shank designs Nutrient Rich Handmade Soaps that contain skin-loving Vitamins such as A, B, C, D, E, and K. She specializes in custom soaps for those with allergies and sensitive skin conditions. You can download the FREE Report “The Top 10 Ingredients to Avoid in Your Personal Care Products” by joining her online newsletter, “Beauty Secrets from Around the World” at http://www.burgundysoap.com.

info@burgundysoap.com

In search of a greater lash I secretly spied into the makeup bags of my most well painted friends, casually slipped in "so what mascara do you use" to unsuspecting co-workers, and polled long lashed strangers to uncover their mascara of choice. To my surprise, friends and strangers alike were wide eyed and bushy tailed to share the secrets of their lash life. So if you're interested in peaking into what's keeping these women's eyes wide open… read 'em and wink:

For Lengthening, Volumizing and Separating -
Lancome Definicils    $21.00 Splurge
Iman Perfect Mascara   $13.00 Midway
Max Factor Maximizing   $5.99  Value
Maybelline Great Lash   $4.99      Value 

For Volumizing and Thickening -
Estee Lauder MagnaScopic  $21.00 Splurge
Fashion Fair Volumizing   $12.00 Midway
L'Oreal Volumizer 4x   $4.24 Value
Avon Astonishing Lengths   $2.99* Steal
* sale price www.myavon.com

For Lengthening and Separating -
Lancome Definicils   $21.00 Splurge
L'Oreal Lash Out    $5.99 Value
Max Factor Stretch & Separate  $4.99 Value
Avon Astonishing Lengths   $2.99* Steal
* sale price www.myavon.com

Dramatic Lashes - One Coat
Christian Dior Show   $23.00 Splurge
Benefit Bad Gal    $18.00 Midway
L'Oreal 3 D Architect   $6.99 Value

Sensitive eyes & Lens Wearers
Clinique Long & Pretty Mascara  $13.50 Midway

Hard to reach & bottom lashes  $4.99 Value
Maybelline Lash Discovery

Best Mascara to sleep in (wink)
Kanebo Mascara    $23.00 Splurge
Most waterproof mascaras

Here are a few lash seccrets to help you get your lash-on right:
· Clean your mascara wand at least once a month to get rid of clumps and prevent build up of bacteria on bristles. Coat the wand with a little Vaseline and gently wipe mascara from the bristles but don't damage the wand. Vaseline works best. Water won't remove all the mascara residue and soap can irritate your eyes. Shelf life of mascara is 3 - 4 months.

· Always have a dampened Q-tip handy when applying your mascara to clean up any smudges before they dry!

· Fashion Fair Cosmetic Manager Dewayne Moore recommends using a lash conditioner to improve brittle, dry lashes, extend the life of the lash and to help mascara adhere better and longer. Look after your eyelashes just like your do your hair and skin

· If necessary curl lashes using mascara curler before applying mascara.
· For best results "draw the mascara wand out of the tube and gently scrape off any clumps on the side or wipe with a tissue before applying, says makeup artist Brandi Williams. 
· Oprah's make up man Reggie Wells, says "start at the lash roots and gently sweep mascara to the ends"
· Allow lashes to dry between coats. Use lash comb or spiral brush to remove any clumps.
· Reggie Wells believes applying mascara to bottom lashes is not necessary and only draws attention to dark circles and wrinkles below the eye area. Try brown on bottom lashes for subtle definition.
· Remove before bedtime  with a gentle eye make up remover like Lancome Bi-facil Eye Makeup Remover or Andrea Q eye make up remover pads.
· Mascara merge…did you know Fashion Fair is black owned by Johnson Publishing Co. (Jet, Ebony) but L'Oreal owns Lancome, and Maybelline. Proctor & Gamble owns Cover Girl & Max Factor.  "Don't Sleep"

Okay beloveds, I hope you found this F.Y. Eye enlightening and helpful in choosing the best mascara to maximize your lashes and bring focus to your eyes…the windows of your soul. 

Bold indicates highly rated!

Cathy Gatson is a freelance writer and owner/operator of Yada Beauty Lounge, a hair and body salon in Northern California.

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.

I imagine you can tell me at length about how tired your feet and legs get after your busy day. When’s the last time you got to treat yourself to a day at the spa? Even if you had the time, it’s not too often you can afford the $100 cost of a simple, relaxing, foot soak.

Doesn’t that sound nice? A relaxing foot soak at a spa. So I put together this simple recipe so you can have that soothing soak with ingredients you probably already have at home, and can whip up immediately.

***

Step 1. Create this wonderful foaming honey foot bath at home.

Here’s what you need:

1 tablespoon Honey
1 tablespoon Liquid Soap (I used dish soap)
1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
2 tablespoons Sweet Almond Oil

The almond oil was the only things that sounded like it was tough to find, but my wife and I found it at the chain drugstore at the corner of our street. Just take a look in the beauty/cosmetic aisle.

Mix all these ingredients together in a bowl and its ready for your foot bath. Note: If you want to make this stuff in a large quantity to save for later, you can bump up all the ingredients to something like this:

½ cup Honey
½ cup Liquid Soap (I used dish soap)
1 tablespoon Vanilla Extract
1 cup Sweet Almond Oil

Now you can save this in a bottle and save some time for next time.

Step 2. Find yourself a foot bath

These days you can get a fancy, space-age, foot bath for about $20. They promise they do all sorts of things like vibration, bubbles, and heat. I haven’t tried one myself, but for $20 that probably isn’t a bad experiment.

My wife however didn’t need one as she had me volunteer to provide all the scrubbing and massaging for her.

Wait! Hon, I don’t recall you ever offering me a foot bath?

So anything around the house that can submerse your feet just above the ankle is going to work here. We ended up using a disposable aluminum roasting pan.

Yes it was brand new and didn’t have roasted meat in it!

Step 3. Fill up your foot bath

Put your mixed up concoction from Step 1 into your foot bath and fill with warm water.

Please be real careful with the water temperature. Do this by triple checking the temperature of the water with your hands when it’s done. And if you are doing this for a spouse make sure you understand their taste in temperature.

I speak from experience here. I got a little lazy, and didn’t judge the hotness of the water. Although my wife was a trooper and tried to go along anyways. I could tell from her grimace and refusal to dip more than like a toe into the water, that I made it too hot.

Step 4. Soak for 10 minutes

After I got the temperature of the water right, we soaked her feet for 10 minutes. There is all sorts of good stuff going on now during this soak.

The soap is obviously cleaning all sorts of impurities from your feet. I can’t even explain how many things the honey is doing. Here is a short list:

1) Apparently honey forms hydrogen peroxide which is a great anti bacterial agent. So there is goes cleansing your feet some more.

2) Honey contains antioxidants. Health news constantly revolves around us getting more antioxidants. So without me getting all biologist on us, I’ll just confirm that getting more antioxidants on our skin and in our diet is really super great!

3) Honey is also a terrific humectant. All that means is it makes a great moisturizer.

***

Just knowing about this foot bath, you can get started on your at-home foot spa. So take 15 minutes tonight and pamper yourself. Those feet are going to feel so soft, especially in a comfy pair of flip flops.

Another great way for women readers to treat their feet is to slide them into a pair of ultra-comfortable flip flops. Get a pair at http://www.yourflipflops.com.

Or if you’d like our FREE newletter with more articles about pampering your feet, send a blank email to mailto:flipflops@aweber.com

There's almost nothing more irritating than buying a lot of expensive cosmetics and finding out after you get home that you don't like them. You can protect your wallet from this drain by trying out free cosmetic samples first.

You don't have to throw money down the toilet any more. Trial offers for free cosmetic exist online. With just a little investment of your time, you can get freebies to help you better choose what's right for you.

Cosmetics companies and other manufacturers want you to have freebies so they can build a fiercely loyal customer base. It does a company no good if you get home and find out your perfume stinks or the color on the package didn't match the shade inside. What's even worse for them and for you in this situation is that most stores won't take the items back once they're opened. But, thanks to trial offers for free samples online, those worries could be a thing of the past.

Why not try before you buy? Go ahead and take advantage of the offers available online from manufacturers. Even better, you can receive great free stuff or make extra money for completing the offers!

To take advantage of free cosmetic samples online or other offers for free product samples, just look at the list below and decide what you're interested in. To get the good freebies, you might have to invest a little bit of your time by completing offers, but the money savings in the long run makes the time investment pale in comparison.

You can:

Get free cosmetic samples, learn more about other freebies, find out about offers that reward you for completion with free money or free merchandise, learn how to get free stuff and/or money for shopping online.

The only thing standing between you and getting free stuff online including free cosmetic samples is a little bit of your time. Manufacturers want to know what you think and they want you to become a customer for life by providing you with products that make you happy.

So, sign up with a rewards program today and get paid cash or receive free stuff for accepting offers including free cosmetic samples.

Sherri Lonon is a successful author and publisher of http://www.1st-in-rewards.com

Great tips on receiving free merchandise and money from top online rewards programs.

(c) Copyright 2004, http://www.1st-in-rewards.com. All rights reserved.

Publishing Guidelines: You may freely distribute or publish this article provided you publish the whole article and include the copyright notice and links in full. A courtesy copy is requested upon publication.

Your face is the first thing that people notice when they meet you. So, it is no wonder that skin care is big business! Millions are spent each year to treat acne, under eye circles, wrinkles, discolorations, and a variety of other ailments. If you are in the market for a skin care line, there are a few things that you should consider before settling on a product. First you need to look at the type of ingredients the product contains, and then find out what works best for your particular skin type. So, get ready to put your best face forward!

A good skin care product is only as good as its ingredients. Make sure to read the label before you buy. If you are unable to pronounce anything on the bottle, move on to something else. The best skin care products are made with natural ingredients. Look for a formula with Aloe Vera and vitamin E for a great complexion. You want a skin care line that keeps you looking your best, while feeling great on your skin. Cleansers and creams shouldn’t burn or sting. Depending on your skin type, you may find that formulas that contain alcohol can actually aggravate your problem. So do your homework beforehand. If you have a specific problem like acne or sun damage, you will want to find a skin care line that focuses on your problem areas. Benzyl peroxide has been known to work wonders on acne, while alpha-hydroxy helps improve the appearance of wrinkles or sun damage.

If you have dry skin, you will want to find a formula that helps replenish the moisture in your face. Products made with Aloe Vera and Vitamin E are particularly good at this. Look for skin care lines that come in a cream or a lotion form. A good humidifier used at night may also help improve your complexion. Always remember that excess washing can actually dry your face out further, so limit your washings to once or twice a day.

If you are plagued by oily skin, you may find that acne is a major problem for you. Here again excess washing can aggravate the problem, so limit washings to once or twice a day. Follow up your skin care routine with a quality astringent or toner. This will help control the amount of oil on your face, and reduce the number of breakouts.

Combination skin can be a tricky situation. You have patches of dry skin as well as oilier regions. Look for a formula that is specifically designed for your type of skin. Oil absorbing masks applied to the T-zone (your forehead, nose, and chin) once a week will help control oil and breakouts.

No matter what type of skin you have, you should have no trouble finding a skin care line to suite your needs. The key is to understand what different ingredients do. Research anything that you don’t understand- and don’t be fooled into thinking that a product has to be expensive to work. Some of the best products on the market cost less than $10 dollars a bottle!

Ellen Kennedy is a freelance health writer and contributing author to http://www.fixoilyskin.info – a site that provides free skin care information and tips.

Looking to get a great tan for yourself? Wanna do it without the oppressive heat of the sun? If your answer is yes to both questions, its time you discovered the wonders of the indoor tanning beds or home tanning beds to give you that sexy bronzed look that you always wanted. And what better way to help your experience than getting to know some ultimate tanning bed tips and tanning bed facts to get the best out of your indoor tanning beds.

Before we go on to discussing tanning bed tips, you need to source a tanning bed for yourself. It could be a commercial tanning bed at a salon that you visit or it could be a used tanning bed that you decided to purchase at some used tanning bed sale. Of course, if you have some money to throw around, you will find tanning beds with financing options, low payment tanning beds and discount tanning beds that will give you the pleasure of getting a tan right at home, whenever you want! A word of caution, please understand that the upkeep of a tanning bed might prove to be a pinch to your pocket when tanning bed replacement parts are required, say a wolff tanning bed replacement part when some installed part fails. The good news is that these tanning bed replacement parts are easy to find in the market, so the uptime of the bed is typically quite high.

Getting the best out of your tanning bed will require some bit of physical work from your side. You should understand completely what the market has to offer so that you can get your money’s worth. Compare tanning bed lotions, look for free samples of tanning bed lotions, discount offers on tanning bed pillows and goggles, and even check out your local supermarket for best deals on these. We recommend that you start with your local salon expert who will be best able to guide you on what to buy from where given your budget. Well planned and measured exposures on the tanning bed with ideal time-gaps between each sitting based on the type of bed and the nature of your skin is the true formula to getting a safe and quick tan. Of course, your enhanced beauty comes at an enhanced tab as well so a judicious choice of the mode of sunless tanning is a must. Like water finds its own level, you too must find your own tanning bed levels in getting closer to your dream of looking drop dead gorgeous.

Visit our articles section at Tanning Articles and Resources for more such practical tanning advice and tips. For the complete low-down on the tanning world, visit Tanning Wonders to enthrall yourself!!

If you are reading this, you have probably experienced the joys of the tanning bed and are now looking for tanning bed tips to enhance the pleasure of donning the tanned look. With several different opinions flying around, we thought it best to house some of the best proven tanning bed tips at a single point to facilitate your endeavor.

Before we start, remember that if you have photosensitive skin, light pigmentation or a history of skin problems, then tanning beds are probably not for you. Having said that, the key factor that governs the quality of use are the tanning bed lights or bulbs that your tanning bed has. The number of tanning bed lights, the power of each light and the format of the tanning bed itself all play an integral role in determining the effectiveness. Fewer the tanning bulbs, lesser the power, more the time taken to tan but considerably lower skin reactions. So choose the tanning bed lights depending on your skin complexion and texture.

Secondly, exposure in tanning beds needs to be consistently spread in time with equal-timed doses. As a tanning bed tip, this is probably not as commonly understood and practiced as it should be. Changes in skin complexion are a gradual process and therefore any break in the regularity of the exposure might set you back on the tanning time-cycle. Ensure that in each of these doses, you follow recommended directions of use for the particular tanning bed that you are using.

And of course, no tanning bed tips would be complete without a mention of tanning bed lotions, pillows, goggles and apparel. The most obvious choice of these accessories is to go with the ones that make you feel comfortable while maintaining the safety requirement of tanning bed use. While people get swayed by discounted lotions, cheap goggles etc, we recommend that you go for a certified and branded product in any of these categories. The right lotion for the right skin will give your body the dream tanned look you have always wanted. Go ahead, use these tanning bed tips and make tanning memorable for you!!

Visit our articles section at Tanning Articles and Resources for more such practical tanning advice and tips.

© 2005,Yaksha Patel. This article is courtesy of Tanning Wonders - Making Tanning work for you!

You may publish it at no cost, as long as the links are left intact, made live, and this notice stays in place.

There is no denying the fact that appropriate diet not only benefits your health, but also your SKIN. A stressful life (inadequate care) and unhealthy eating are two major reasons for poor skin and various skin problems like rashes, dry skin, black circles under your eyes, pimples, acne, pigmentation etc. There are other secondary reasons too which can affect your skin like at the time of pregnancy when there is hormonal change or genetic problem i.e either you have oily or dry skin because of your genes. But more than 70% of the affected skin is due to the primary reasons and one of the major primary reason is inappropriate diet.

Different skin needs different type of diet. But there are few general rules for healthy skin which are universal for everyone.

Here is the list of the rules:

a) Water, the magical drink, acts as the best medicine for the skin. It not only refreshes you and make your skin glow but also purifies your body which makes the body run most effectively. Read the benefits of water and how it helps your skin glow just a click away at http://www.weightloss-health.com/Water_Benifits.htm.

b) Vitamins are as essential to skin as oxygen to body. Some vitamins do a world of good to your skin. These vitamins are mandatory for glowing and healthy skin.

List of Vitamins essential for your glowing skin and their sources (natural):

1) Vitamin C : It can be easily found in all citric fruits like orange etc.

2) Vitamin A : Sources for Vitamin A are papaya, orange, egg yolk etc.

3) Vitamin B : It is found in all leafy vegetables along with fruits. Other sources are Whole grains , brewers yeast etc.

4) Vitamin E : It is found in oilseeds, vegetables like broccoli , nuts etc.

Trust me, it isnt that difficult to maintain a healthy skin. All you need to take care of it properly and make sure you eat well. You can always consult your skin specialist for the right diet and simply follow it.

More on healthy food ( http://www.weightloss-health.com/healthy%20food.htm ) and free healthy recipes ( http://www.weightloss-health.com/Recipes.htm ) of all kinds .

About the Author

Jasdeep: for http://www.weightloss-health.com your complete and most comprehensive family guide on Health.

Also get free tips and tricks on weight loss, diet and muscle Building at Healthy Diet Tips, Myths and Facts

If you wish to reproduce the above article you are welcome to do so, provided the article is reproduced in its entirety, including this resource box and LIVE link to our website.

Are you one of these people that were born with brown hair and brown eyes, but you always wanted to have blue eyes and blond hair? Color contact lenses and a little hair dye can accomplish this quickly. Eyes that are brown have more melanin in the iris than lighter colored green or blue eyes. As we age our eyes change color a little also. A color contact lens can temporarily change your eye color and really become a fashion statement.

Eyes that are brown or any color can easily be changed with today’s technology of a color contact lens. These contacts are safe and comfortable as any other contacts might be. They can be worn as extended wear contact lenses, disposable or hard rigid lenses. There are four different types of color contacts and each one offers a slightly different benefit. The first one is just a visibility tint so if you drop a lens; you can easily find it. These lenses do not alter the color of the iris at all. The second tint is an enhancement tint. These lenses will only alter your eye color slightly and enhance your natural color of eyes. The third is the actual color tint and what you normally think of to change those brown eyes into blue or whatever you choose. There is a wide array of specialty colors on the market today. The fourth is a light filtering tint. These lenses are designed for athletes or sports fans; enhancing ball color or making the ball stand out more. When color contacts first came on the market, I think they looked a little artificial. Only rigid hard lenses were available and you could definitely see the rim around the iris. Now they are making them so that they look more natural on the eye and it is hard to tell if the person is wearing them at all.

Some would like to change the color of their eyes but they have 20/20 vision. These particular kinds of contacts are called plano and still must always be fitted by a professional. If they are not fitted by a physician, infection and permanent eye damage may occur. Always ask your doctor if color contacts could be good for you and your particular vision problems. If you are a regular contact lens wearer; it may be fun for you to change up your eye color and order some blue eyes in place of your brown ones.

Beverly Marshall is a successful freelance writer offering guidance and suggestions for consumers buying glasses for reading, contacts, laser eye surgery, safety glasses and more. She gives information and tips to help you save money and make informed buying decisions.

If you’ve finally made the decision to undergo breast augmentation surgery, you now are faced with the practical and financial decisions of cosmetic surgery. Safety is of course a primary concern, but the cost of plastic surgery is a great factor as well. Many people have great difficulty balancing these two, trying to find a good doctor who will work within their price range. Medical expenses for breast augmentation surgery include not only the surgical procedure but also the implants, anesthesia, medication and the cost of using the operating room, and can run from $4,000 to $10,000.

Other variances in price will relate to the procedure that a particular surgeon uses (some place the implant under the muscle, some make the incision through the armpit or under the breast or on the nipple), the location of the doctor performing the surgery, and how much augmentation is being done.

While cost can be a deciding factor in whether or not to undergo breast augmentation or breast lift surgery, the choice of doctor should be based upon comfort and safety rather than expense. Furthermore, many make the mistake of believing that plastic surgeons in big cities are better or safer doctors than those in smaller cities. If you have decided that the benefit of breast augmentation surgery outweighs the cost of the procedure, you should find a good cosmetic surgeon in your area through a reliable source.

Find a qualified Cosmetic Surgeon in Your Area at http://www.sleepingswan.com

Start with your face: it’s your “canvas.”

Have a little extra time the night before an event for which you want to look your best? Super - exfoliate your face with a mask or microdermabrasion (using the right products for your skin type and special needs) and then moisturize your skin thoroughly. Also shape and clean up your eyebrows to complement your face.

On the day of your event, perform steps two through four for healthy skin: cleanse, freshen and moisturize. (Step one is exfoliate, which you’ve done.) Your foundation and makeup apply much more smoothly and evenly over well-hydrated skin so carefully moisturize your face and eye areas.

Since the eye areas don't produce their own moisture, apply an eye cream; it’s specially formulated for that delicate skin. (Moisturizers for the face tend to have humectants which can puff up the skin around the eyes.)

Foundation: Do you know that foundation is the fifth and “protect” step for healthy skin? Apply your foundation and finish it with powder. The powder will “set” the foundation and help it last longer so there's less need for touch ups.

Eye primer: An eye primer allows eye color to go on more smoothly and stay in place longer without creasing and smudging.

Eye color: The simplest approach to eye color is to apply a neutral or soft shade (from the upper lashes to the brows) which will enhance or “pop” another color placed over it.

Almost as easy is another technique using two colors. Follow the eye primer with a single color from lash to brow. Then apply a second stronger or darker color over the lids and into the creases to complement the shape of your eyes. If you’re getting ready for an evening event, be more dramatic than for an event during the day.

Eye liner: Line the eyes if it enhances them, staying close to the lash lines.

Mascara: To make your eye lashes appear thicker and longer, start with the wand close to the eyes and then wiggle the wand back and forth as you move it away from your eyes. To really “open” your eyes, use an eyelash curler.

Eyebrows: A simple and natural way to emphasize the eyebrows is to brush them with a matching shade of eye color and then set the color with a gel. The gel will also help emphasize and maintain the shape of your brows.

Cheek color: For your cheek color, either smile and apply blush to the apples of your cheeks or sweep it up along your cheek bones starting two fingers away from your nose and stopping at your temples. Then blend the color gently.

Lip liner, lipstick, lip gloss: If color 'bleeding' is a problem, run a lip outliner pencil along the outer edges of your lips. Define your lips with a lip liner, fill in color with a lipstick and polish with gloss.

Your canvas is now a “work of art!”

© Copyright 2005 Charlotte Maddox

You have permission to publish this article electronically or in print as long as the bylines, URL and copyright are included. Please print the article in its entirety, unchanged and send a copy of the publication to charlottemaddox@marykay.com.

Charlotte Maddox is an independent beauty consultant with Mary Kay Inc. Her goals are to share her knowledge and expertise in helping clients develop skin care and beauty routines which suit their preferences and lifestyles and to save valuable time and effort in busy clients' lives. http://www.marykay.com/charlottemaddox

by Cathy Gatson
With Spring in the air and Summer just around the corner…it will soon be time to "change clothes and go"…sleeveless. If you've been shopping lately, you may have noticed many of the blouses, tops and dresses for Spring/Summer are haltered, strapless, or sleeveless, exposing lots of skin. The styles are sexy but flabby arms are not. If the backs of your arms are waving in the wind, then here are the most recommended and easiest exercises that I've found to improve muscle tone to your arms, shoulders and chest just in time for Spring.

The muscles you want to target are:
Biceps - located at the top of your upper arm. Clench your fist and make a muscle, the bump that should appear is your bicep.
Triceps - located at the back and below your upper arm.
Pectoralis Major & Minor - chest muscles

Push ups are a tried and true exercise which work the triceps, chest, and shoulders. You may modify the traditional push up by both knees on the floor rather than straightening them behind you. Place your hands on the floor in front of you, shoulder width apart and push your upper body away. Go at a pace that works for you but be consistent. Gradually increasing your reps. No need to go the gym for this exercise. You can drop and do 20 right before you climb into bed.
Kim King, head strength and conditioning coach for Olympic Sports at the University of Pittsburgh, suggests the following exercises: 
Dumbbell triceps curl
· Stand erect with back straight and feet shoulder width apart.
· Hold dumbbell (if weights are not available substitute weights with 32 oz. waterbottles) in right hand and raise overhead with arm extended.
· Keep upper arm close to head and perpendicular to the floor.
· Slowly lower dumbbell behind head until forearm touches (nears) bicep.
· Raise dumbbell to starting position and repeat movement.
· Inhale when lowering dumbbell, exhale when raising (extending) arm upward.
· Repeat with opposite arm. This exercise can also be done while seated.
Dumbbell triceps extension
· Stand holding dumbbell in your right hand with palm facing in.
· Bend forward until your back is nearly parallel to the floor.
· Position left hand on left knee.
· Position upper right arm against side (parallel to ground) with lower arm vertical to ground.
· Press dumbbell back until arm parallel to floor.
· Pause for a moment, then lower dumbbell slowly to starting position, then repeat.
· Inhale when raising dumbbell, exhale when lowering. Repeat with opposite arm.
Hammer bicep curl
· Stand erect with feet shoulder-width apart.
· Hold a light dumbbell in each hand with arms extended down and palms facing inward.
· Keep upper arms tight against ribs and perpendicular to the floor.
· Raise one dumbbell at a time by flexing the arm at the elbow.
· Curl movement should bring dumbbell in line with the shoulder.
· Lower dumbbell slowly until elbow is fully extended.
· Repeat with opposite arm.
· Exhale during upward movement; inhale during downward phase.
 According to the fitness manager at 24 Hour Fitness at Hilltop, Izaac Tyrell, the most effective way to reduce weight is "by eating a balanced diet (consisting of carbs, protein and a little fat), doing cardio-vascular exercises in combination with weight training".
Izaak reiterated what I've read in countless health magazines which is there is no "spot reduction" way to reduce fat in other words, there is no quick fix to flab-less arms!

If done correctly, the exercises mentioned, will yield noticeable results but only if incorporated with cardio exercises and a low fat, nutritious diet. Start now and by summer you should be able to brush your shoulders off and wave flabby arms goodbye!

Resources: For more information on weight loss, and exercise, The Ultimate Weight Loss Revealed by Brad Callen e-book has great fat burning tips and cardio exercise programs (www.free-weight-loss-resources.com). Another great resource for nutrition and exercise tips is www.ivillage.com. Winsor Pilates video available at Target for $29.95 an awesome program designed to tone and sculpt your entire body and help you lose weight. Tamilee Webb's, "I Want Those Arms"  a good video for beginners to intermediate excercisers. available on VHS for $14.95 www.collagevideo.com

Cathy Gatson is a freelance writer and owner/operator of Yada Beauty Lounge, a hair and body salon in Northern California.

Staying young and beautiful is an important factor in many of our lives. The thought of getting old, wrinkly and losing our faculties is rather daunting to say the least.

Scientists who have studied aging are now saying that your genes only have 40 percent of the deciding factor to how old you look and feel, the rest is due to what you eat, drink and your state of mind. According to these studies, this means you can delay aging symptoms by years, simply by taking small steps to improve your diet, fitness and by trying to cut down the levels of stress and negativity in your life.

Cutting down on stress is one of the most important things you need to think about, prolonged stress can be hazardous to your health. Studies have shown there is evidence that chronic stress weakens the immune system, making us more susceptible to infections and illnesses.

Try to be positive about your life, if you are not one of life’s natural optimists it will be worth learning to become one by practicing positive thinking, such as; If you find yourself reacting to an event in a destructive way, stop for a moment and focus on positive areas of your life or think of a good time in your life and reflect on the best features about yourself, once you have managed to get into a better state of mind take another look at your problem or event, is it actually as important as you first thought?

Is there an easier way to go about your problem? Or perhaps there is someone who you can ask for help to lighten the load. By believing in yourself, thinking that things can only get better and that this situation is temporary, you will be surprised how much happier and calm you can become.

Eat at least five portions of fruit and vegetables a day and a minimum of one portion of oily fish a week, this will boost your immune system and help give you more energy to go about your busy lifestyle. By eating your recommended portion of fruit and vegetables, scientists also say you cut your overall cancer risk by twenty percent. Eating oily fish at least once a week can cut your risk of heart attack by forty percent. Fish also helps to reduce risk of several forms of cancers and can ease symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.

Drink eight glasses of water each day to keep your body fully hydrated. Water can help build up your bodies immune system and is also known to increase the elasticity of the skin, which keeps your face and body wrinkle free for longer.

When dieting if you drink a large glass of water before each meal your stomach will be fuller to start with so you will not need to eat as much food to fill you up thus making dieting much easier.

Keep on the move, staying physically fit is an important factor in achieving a healthy lifestyle, by doing as little as twenty minutes of exercise a day will do you the world of good, especially if you stick to a routine, it will build up your strength, balance and flexibility.

Always wear sun lotion, by wearing sun lotion with a high sun protection factor you can protect your skin from exposure to ultraviolet light, UVA or UVB. Both UVA and UVB radiation can cause skin damage such as wrinkles, lowered immunity against infections, aging skin disorders and cancer.

There are many more things you can do to improve your health and fitness, but if you follow these few steps it will be a good start and will make a huge difference to your life and future.

Cheryl White is the author of http://www.money-4-work.com and http://www.work-n-earn.com

Do you dread trying to find a cosmetic because you know that chances are its going to cause your skin to burn and turn red? Do you have a bathroom cupboard full of creams and lotions that you have only used once or twice because they reacted badly with your face? Then you have sensitive skin which is probably the most frustrating skin type to have. So how do you deal with it?

The main problems with sensitive skin are redness, burning, tightness, dryness and irritation. This skin type can also be prone to dermatitis, eczema or acne. The first course of action would be to find out if an allergy is causing the problem.

A dermatologist may perform a patch test to see if you are susceptible to one of the more common allergens. It may be an ingredient in a cosmetic, it may even be a dietary allergy or food intolerance. If allergy is ruled out then the problem is genetic and there are still several things that can be done to help the situation.

When buying any cosmetic always look for “Hypo Allergenic” on the label. This does not guarantee it won’t react to you skin but it does mean that some or most of the common allergens have been omitted from the product such as sulphates perfume and some colors, check the label if not sure.

Preservatives used to increase the shelf life of a product can be some of the main irritants. Put a little bit on a small patch of skin before spreading all over your face.

Try to find products that have fewer ingredients, the more ingredients in a product, the greater the chance your skin will find one it doesn’t like! Avoid fragrances in anything you put on you face, it is an unnecessary ingredient and only included to make the product commercially acceptable.

Don’t use exfoliants on sensitive skin, even the gentlest ones are still too harsh, ditto with harsh soaps. Forget toners and astringents that contain alcohol, they are too drying. Try cleansing only at night with perhaps a splash of warm water in the mornings, over-cleansing can irritate sensitive skins.

Do you live in an extreme climate? Extreme heat or cold can take its toll on sensitive skin as can strong winds and, of course, sun exposure. Try not to go outdoors more than you absolutely have to when conditions are extreme. Always wear a sunblock with an SPF of 15 at least.

Is there anything your skin comes into contact with regularly like pillowcases or towels which could be making the problem worse? Wash these in a low irritant detergent or pure soap and rinse really well. Don’t use fabric softeners as these add fragrance - see if this helps.

It is also worth having a look at your diet. Do you love spicy foods? Try cutting them out for a week or so and see if this makes any difference. If so bring them back gradually and see if the problems re occur.

Omega oils can help sensitive skin, in fact all skin types benefit from these. They can be found in fish especially oily fish like salmon. Alternatively you can buy them in capsule form if fish is not your thing. Antioxidants like vitamin C and E will improve your skin from the inside and are worth taking if your diet is less than perfect!

Its hard to find anything good to say about smoking, this is no exception! Smoking replaces the oxygen in the blood with carbon monoxide, uses up Vitamin C along with a slew of other things which are bad for the skin and bad for your health. Try cutting it down if you can't cut it out completely

I guess this advice has seemed like a litany of “do this, don’t do that!” There is no simple answer to sensitive skin. Try some or all of these tips and if nothing seems to help visit a dermatologist, they are there to help.

Like to have better looking skin? http://www.holistic-facial-skin-care.com will give you detailed information on all facets of skin care. The author, Wendy Owen has had a lifetime interest in general and alternative health and skin care.

Is your dry skin itchy and flaky or cracking and peeling? While dry skin may indicate any of several skin disorders such as psoriasis or eczema, you may simply have skin that is badly in need of hydration. The epidermis, or outer layer of skin, is easily dehydrated, particularly in cold, windy weather or after extensive unprotected sun exposure. Flaky, itchy skin, itchy scalp, or scaling can result. Painful chaffing can appear on the skin.

These problems can be very annoying and uncomfortable, not to mention unattractive. Severely dehydrated skin can result in dermatitis, a common skin irritation. Dermatitis can be easily treated by your physician, but it is certainly unattractive and uncomfortable during an attack of dermatitis.

To cure your serious itchy, scaly skin problems, you must avoid cleaning the skin with hot water. Always cleanse itchy, flaky or cracked skin with lukewarm water. Using water that is too hot simply removes more of the important natural protective oils produced by the skin, resulting in more itching, cracking and flaking. While skin is still damp from cleansing, liberally apply a good quality moisturizing lotion or oil to the affected areas. There are lotions specifically formulated for itchy, cracking skin problems and are available at very affordable prices. If you believe your skin problem may be psoriasis, eczema, dermatitis or another of the many skin problems, you should consult with your doctor. But for every day, common dehydrated skin, regular use of moisturizing products applied twice per day should remedy the problems quickly.

If scaly, itchy scalp is your problem, cleanse hair thoroughly with moisturizing shampoo, rinsed well with tepid water. Follow this with a good quality moisturizing conditioner. If itchy, flaky scalp problems continue, you may need to seek the advice of your doctor to obtain a prescription formula shampoo to control the flaking.

Yoav Cohen is an author for AHAVA Dead Sea products site.

Despite the fact that Botox is a toxin it's been safely and widely used by ophthamologists for more than ten years. Botox has been used for for wrinkle treatment since the early 1990's and no serious side effects have been documented.

Botox works by relaxing the muscles that create the wrinkles and that way lessening the appearance of frown lines, crow's feet or laugh lines. Botox is injected in the muscle and after the botox injection you'll no longer be able to frown, eliminating the lines created by frowning. Botox eliminates the wrinkles that appear because of facial muscle overuse, it's a protein toxin produced by clostridium botulinum bacteria.

Botox has been regarded by many as "the ultimate fountain of youth", botox injections are more popular than breast enchancement and are probably the next blockbuster. More than 1.6 million patients received botox injection in 2001 with almost 50% increase over 2000. According the ASAPS, botox injections are the fastest-growing cosmetic procedure.

In order to work, a small amount of Botox is injected in the muscles that create the wrinkles. The botox toxin works by inactivating those muscles and that way causing the wrinkles to disappear or diminish a lot.

The botox treatment lasts three to six months and it's quite quick to take. After the effect dissapears you can return for a follow-up injection. It's been reported that after a number of injections the effect lasts longer and it might last several months.

There is one common complication is a slight and temporary drooping of the eyelid. Because botox is used in very small amounts and it doesn't spread in the body you won't have to wait for any healing, you'll be able to return to full activity immediatly.

Although botox can be used by a lot of people, almost anyone, the breastfeeding or patients who are pregnant or have a neurologic disease should not use botox.

For more information on botox treatment or botox doctors please visit : http://www.botox-cosmetic-doctors.com

Do you want to look stunning with out wasting too much money? If your answer is yes, then you should read this tips. They have past on from generations to generations. The best part of it, is that you may already have the ingredients at home!

Get rid of blemishes
Apply toothpaste to the required area, Leave on overnight.

Dried or chapped skin
Apply petroleum jelly (vaseline) affected area.

Falling hair
Pour cinnamon in to 12 or more ounces of water, let it boil for 5-10 minutes. After it cools down, apply to hair scalp for 10 -15 minutes. Then shampoo and rinse as usual.

Hot oil treatment
Heat any vegetable oil (do not over heat). Apply to hair cover with shower cap and leave on for 10-20 minutes.

Blackheads
Mix oatmeal and honey, apply to skin. Massage skin for 5-7 minutes then rinse off with warm water.

About The Author

Kenia Morales is the owner and publisher of online magazine " For Every Aspect Of Today's Woman". To find more beauty tips and other women related issues and topics visit her site at http://www.kpatra.com

keniamorales@kpatra.com

How many times has your mother told you, you are what you eat? As you probably know, Mom knows best. So it’s no surprise that what we feed our bodies does affect what the final product is. For healthier, younger skin it’s no different. But what should we eat in order to have the radiant skin we all covet? Here is a list of simple things we can all incorporate into our diet to help fend off wrinkles.

Fish Meat. Salmon especially. Fish meat is stock full of protein. Consuming more good protein like fish meat will give cells the fuel they need to repair themselves.

Dark-green, leafy vegetables. Another thing you’ve most likely heard from Mom: eat your vegetables. Again, she’s right. Foods such as romaine lettuce or kale will help prevent your skin from ageing. Rich in iron and vitamin A, these vegetable will assist in healing damaged skin.

Nuts. Nuts are a valuable source of iron and zinc, and are an easy add on to most desserts and dishes. Almonds are replete with zinc which also will boost skin restoration.

Berries. The most fun food for last. Berries (blueberries, raspberries, strawberries – yummy!) have hundreds of different recipes for dessert time. A healthy-skin diet doesn’t have to be a boring one. Berries are rich in strong antioxidants which will aid skin defense.

Just remember these easy things the next time you’re strolling through the grocery aisles. Eating these foods will arm your skin cells with the necessary tools to help preserve and keep your skin looking young.

Copyright 2005 Daniel Vang

Daniel Vang is a publisher at eraseyears.com, scouring the latest news and reports concerning smooth skin. Find free anti-wrinkle creams and other helpful wrinkle-preventing tips at eraseyears.com

When you are away from home in a different climate your hair will be subjected to weather it is not used to.

Your hair needs to be protected in the same way that you do with your skin. UV rays are very harmful to your hair affecting the pigment, strength, shine and vitality.

For your skin you take with you cleanser, moisturizer, sunscreen and after-sun lotions so for your hair take shampoo, conditioner, hair sunscreen and styling products.

Cold Climate

1. Cold temperatures weaken your hair and susceptible to damage. Flyaway hair tends to be subject to static. Hair should be well conditioned and protected by wearing a hat.

2. If you have frizzy hair use a leave-in conditioner and take a deep moisturizing mask with you on holiday. All hair types will benefit from using a heat protection spray and serum to keep the elements out and keep the moisture in.

Humid climate

3. Hair expands just like it does when it is wet in a humid climate. This will make your hair fluffy or if it is curly, frizzy.

4. For all hair types, a pre-holiday deep conditioning treatment is a must to nourish the hair and seal the cuticles, as you want to prevent excess moisture from entering the hair shaft.

5. If you have fine hair use a light leave-in conditioner from mid-way down the hair to the ends and use a serum to seal the ends after blow-drying, being careful not to overdo the serum on fine hair.

6. If you have curly and/or frizzy hair then you need to seal the cuticle (the outside of your hair) to minimize the additional frizziness that results in humid weather.

7. Use a leave-in conditioner very morning. Use an anti-frizz serum to coat and seal the cuticle.

Hot and dry climate

8. The sun strips the hair of its natural oils and dry heat increases this effect. UV rays attack your hair and the resulting free radicals damage the hair. The weakened cuticle causes the hair to become dehydrated, allows the bleaching and fading of the color pigment as well as split ends.

9. To protect your hair 100% from sun damage wear a hat!

10. Deep conditioning your hair before your holiday is essential.

11. If you have fine hair use a wash your hair with a gentle shampoo and use a light leave-in conditioner with UV protection. Use a sun-protection spray containing a UV filter to screen your hair from the effects of the sun and seawater and re-apply after going in the sea.

12. If you have curly hair use a moisturizing shampoo and a leave-in conditioner to minimize dryness. Apply a nourishing hair mask whilst you are away to deep condition your hair. Use a sun-protection spray containing a UV filter to screen your hair from the effects of the sun and seawater and re-apply after going in the sea.

13. If you have frizzy hair use a sun-protection spray containing a UV filter to screen your hair from the effects of the sun and seawater and re-apply after going in the sea.Use a rich leave-in conditioner with UV protection each morning and apply a hair mask every other day during the holiday.

14. When you have been swimming in the sea always wash the salt out afterwards.

15. Chlorine from the swimming pool is extremely damaging when combined with the effects of the sun, wet your hair in the shower before hand and protect your hair with a leave-in conditioner preferably one containing a UV filter. Wash your hair thoroughly after swimming.

16. Hair grips and bands are an extremely useful item to have on holiday and offer a quick-fix solution for hair care problems.

17. Don't forget your travel plug to ensure that you can still use your hairdryer and other electric hairstyling equipment whilst abroad.

Bon Voyage!

Copyright © Skye Irwin, Haircare-made-easy.com, 2005 This article is copyrighted. Please feel free to use it in it's entirety including copyright information and information about the publisher. Skye Irwin operates the website HairCare Made Easy, you can get her Hair Care Made Easy book from http://www.haircare-made-easy.com

When I hit my 30's, I decided to get more serious about skin care and makeup. I've become a regular at Department Store 'Bonus Days', when you buy an item and get a bunch of samples for free! Cosmetics and makeup can be fun, easy and inexpensive if you follow these tips!

Your Eyes:

1. For great looking eyes make sure to use powder shadows for a natural look and a eyeliner pencil for drama at night. Make sure the liner has a smudge tip at one end to get that smoky eye look. Only line the top of the eye is you're looking tired. You don't want to bring more attention to dark circles under the eyes. Neutral tones with a hint of color are flattering on everybody.

2. For sheen on the eyelids, dab a bit of Vaseline for a pretty reflective quality, as well as moisture.

3. Open up the eye with a gold/beige shimmery high lighter onto the brow bone.

4. Don't throw away cash on an expensive eye makeup remover! Find a pretty glass bottle and fill it with baby shampoo.

5. If your cream eye shadow dries out, use a few drops of water or mineral oil to soften it up again.

5. Potatoes, like cucumbers, will reduce the appearance of dark, under-eye circles.

Your Lips:

1. Use blush as a lipstick, then use clear gloss or lip balm over it. Longer staying power.

2. Natural ingredients have been used for centuries as makeup: apply beet juice to lips and cheeks as a stain,or mix it with melted bees wax to make your own lip balm! Cayenne pepper can plump the lips, but use with caution!

3. Use eye makeup remover to treat super dry, chapped lips. It's a great nighttime lip treatment!

Your Face:

1. For a longer lasting foundation try a product with silicone. The silicone creates a sweat-proof and smudge resistant second skin. For me, I find it helps with my rosacea because the live yeast extract has healing powers.

2. A powder bronzer under blush can really even out skin tone. I dab my brush in the bronzer, then into the blush and lightly cover my whole face.

3. For a new bronzer, use a foundation that is two to three shades darker than your skin tone and apply where you would use your bronzer. In a pinch you could use a brown eye shadow.

4. Papaya mixed with plain yogurt into a paste makes a great exfoliating mask for all skin types!

5. Use an egg white mask for a quick fix for diminishing the appearance of pores.

Jane Arnold is a freelance writer and part-time beauty buff. You can get more health and beauty tips at her website at: http://www.girlyside.com/girlyside.html The website is a girl's guide to health, beauty, love and leisure. Sign up for the free newsletter at http://www.girlyside.com/newsletter.html

When the weather starts to warm up and the days get longer, we are all drawn outdoors to enjoy the sun. Many will recall seemingly endless hours outdoors, soaking up the sun's rays without a care. Unfortunately, sunbathing isn't as carefree an activity as it used to be. These days, there's more to worry about, such as premature aging, scarring and blemishes, or even skin cancer.

Some people desire quicker results than what natural sunlight offers. For such people, sunless tanning is the route to take. Sunless tanning refers to the process of attaining a suntan by sunless means, as the term implies. Sunless tanning might take the form of lotions, sprays, powders, pills, tanning beds, or tanning booths. The efficacy and results of these methods vary. To understand how sunless tanners work, it's necessary to first know what a suntan is, however.

The sun emits three types of ultraviolet or UV radiation: UVC, at 100 to 290 nm, UVB, at 290 to 320 nm, and UVA, at 320 to 400 nm. It is the UVA and UVB rays that are the most harmful to our skin. UVB is easier to protect against than UVA, but both cause very real damage.

The body has its own defenses against UV radiation. Our skin protects us from UV damage by producing melanin, a substance that absorbs the harmful rays in order to protect our DNA. When the body produces melanin, our skin darkens, taking on a darker appearance. This is how we tan.

Most sunless tanning aids are harmless, but not all will prevent the skin damage caused by the sun and UV radiation. Furthermore, methods such as tanning beds and tanning pills are controversial and thought to be unsafe. The FDA, in fact, has not approved most tanning pills.

Staying out of the sun does not have to mean staying pale at all. There are numerous ways to get a tan without risking our health. The cost of sunless tanning options ranges from just a few dollars for cream, to $100 or more for a few sessions in a tanning salon. In an ideal situation, the result will be a great looking without anyone knowing the difference!

Sunless Tanning Info provides detailed information about sunless tanning lotion, booths, sprays, salons, and pills, as well as reviews of best sunless tanning products and methods. Sunless Tanning Info is the sister site of Tanning Beds Web.

Have you ever wondered where those cool big lenses and signature frame originated from? Maybe you are a little curious as to how aviation shades have gotten so big in recent years?

In this article I will discuss how “pilot glasses” began, as well as how they got where they are today. After reading this you may just decide on getting a pair for yourself!

The shades we know today were first created way back in 1936 by none other than Ray Ban. The reason they are known as “aviator sunglasses” is because they were developed specifically for pilots back in 1936. Pilots needed a good pair of anti glare sunglasses, and Ray Ban’s design satisfied this requirement perfectly.

The design that Ray Ban came up with was actually modeled directly from the goggles being worn by the U.S. military at the time. Since the aviator’s debut, they have remained largely unchanged in design and are still standard issue for military pilots the world over.

Maybe even more interesting is how aviation shades have literally taken off with the general public (no pun intended).

Ray Ban started selling aviator sunglasses to the public a year after they were created; in 1937. During the years many different companies have now started making their own pilot shades -- Both name brand and no name sunglasses.

Different technologies have also come into fashion… Some of them stay and some of them go. For instance, have you seen those mirrored aviator glasses that were popular in the movie Top Gun? Those are a technology all their own.

Even different lenses are sometimes used, but glass is still the most popular. Perhaps the biggest change has been all the different colors coming out. Blue, purple, and pink are just a few of the colors you can now find being sported on aviation glasses.

Celebrities have also been boosting these shades reputation as of late –- Many of the biggest stars can be seen wearing them.

All of the above combined have contributed to the huge success of aviator sunglasses. We can only expect them to get even more popular in the near future.

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Cody Kahl is creator and writer of Aviator Glasses Guide – A site
dedicated to providing only the best aviator sunglasses information.
Cody believes in quality, and this free resource proves it.
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Much like the way the overwhelming power of the Ferrari emanates from her gentle and supreme engine, the power of the tanning bed lies in the tanning bed lights that make up the heart of the best tanning beds. And the more you know about tanning bed lights, the more you grow to love it, for therein lie the seeds of beautiful bronzed skin! Read on to know more about tanning bed lights or tanning bed bulbs as they are often called and make them work for you in the best possible way.

Tanning bed lights are essentially the source of the ultraviolet radiation in the tanning bed. While its one of the more crucial parts of the tanning bed, it tends to be given less importance than its cousins such as tanning bed lotions, tanning bed goggles and pillows which all form a comprehensive basket of tanning bed supplies. The strength of a tanning bed chiefly depends on the type of bed, the intensity of the tanning bed lights used and the number of them present inside the tanning bed. Tanning bed lights can themselves vary by intensity of power which means a twenty bulb combination of higher rating might be more powerful than a fifty bulb combination of lower rating. Please note that tanning bed lights and tanning bed bulbs mean the same thing here.

The optimum time spent inside a tanning bed therefore depends not only on the power of the tanning bed lights but also on your own skin color, texture and photosensitivity. So ensure that even before you get into what you think is the best tanning bed in town, you consult your doctor or health advisor on whether tanning is a luxury you can indulge in. If you have gotten past that criteria, then understand the prescribed exposure times that your tanning bed lights come with. Always better to be safe than sorry isn't it?

You now have an insight into what makes for a good tanning experience … so just go ahead, get the right lights, get your skin dark and go, charm the world!!

Visit our articles section at Tanning Articles and Resources for more such practical tanning advice and tips.

© 2005,Yaksha Patel. This article is courtesy of Tanning Wonders - Making Tanning work for you ! You may publish it at no cost, as long as the links are left intact, made live, and this notice stays in place.

Tanning products, both sunless and sun, go to work on the epidermis, or the outside layer of your skin, and not the dermis or inner layer. However, the layer of epidermis that is affected by sunless versus the layer affected by sun tanning products differs. Sun tanning lotions, sprays, gels and other assorted items, go to work on the stratum basale or deepest layer. And sunless tanning items go to work on the stratum corneum or outermost layer.

Method 1 - Sunless Bronzers

Some sunless tanning products come in the form of moisturizers (as lotions and crèmes) and powders and are referred to as bronzers. Basically you simply apply these to your skin as you would make up products for a temporary "tan" appearance, similar to the effects of applied makeup leaving a "tint."

Then you just wash the bronzers off with soap and water; the "tan is removed with washing. Caution is needed so that the products do not stain clothing or other fabric. And care needs to be taken so that the applications do not streak or run when wet, similar to the results of mascara running. And finally, make sure that if you wear these products outdoors, they contain sunscreen in the ingredients; otherwise wear protective clothing, eyewear, etc.

Method 2 - Sunless Tanning Booths

Sunless tanning booths are becoming more popular. With an air compressor and an airbrush delivery system in one of these booths, skin receives a "tan." What happens is that pistons in the compressor quickly press or force air out via a nozzle in an airbrush or spray head. This air mixes with a tanning solution containing DHA that's inside compartments within the airbrush, and sprays this in a fine mist over the outer skin layer.

Some tanning booths have up to 36 of these airbrushes connected to the compressor and they are all either in fixed positions or moving. Thus tanning clients then either move under fixed sprayers so that skin is covered all over. Or else the tanner parts move to spray the different body parts (these types pose more mechanical maintenance issues though.)

Method 3 - Tanning Accelerators

For a speedier tan, you might elect to try a tanning accelerator. Generally sold as lotions or pills, these products list an amino acid called tyrosine in with the ingredients. This amino acid is reported (but not proven) by some users to increase the production of melanin, speeding up the tanning process. Again, these are not FDA-approved solutions or drugs.

Method 4 - Tanning Lamps

Tanning lamps, unfortunately, can have the same bad effects on the body as direct sunlight. The equipment emits UV rays that are just as damaging as the sun's. Some measures to take towards safety when using this type of equipment are closely monitor sessions, keeping to the minimum number and timed lengths that are recommended, don't book sessions closer than every-other day, ALWAYS wear recommended safety eyewear, follow safety and other directions that come with the equipment or are (or should be) posted near it, and do place some sort of protection like a thin piece of acrylic between your body and tanning lamps. (Check for this possibility with booths, too, by asking the host or reading the equipment's instruction booklet).

In conclusion, when looking for a tanning solution, check out the variety of products available. Sunless-tanning products offer safer tanning and many choices of forms and formulas for everyone across the board from young to old. And sunscreen products are definitely needed outdoors and also come in a variety of choices for everyone.

So be prepared. Be safe. And have fun in the sun!

Tony Newton publishes the popular health and wellness website - http://www.1st-for-health.com With lots of informative articles on low carb diets, hair loss, arthritis pain relief, obesity and lots more.

You work hard to eat a healthy diet and exercise regularly. You know that organic foods can help you avoid ingesting nasty hormones and chemicals but did you know that these toxins are creeping into your system in other ways? Your moisturizers, eye creams, and make up may seem harmless, but check out the labels and you'll find a laundry list of tongue-twisting ingredients, many of which could be hazardous to your health. In a recent survey, conducted by Health, eighty three percent of responding consumers indicated that they would rather use all natural body products. The skin care industry is responding to this demand. The natural and organic skin care product sector has seen a growth of thirty nine percent over the last year. Some of these products may claim to be all-natural, while still containing a slew of chemicals and toxins. Here's what you need to know about natural skin care and how to determine if the product you are using is free of harmful chemicals.

Why Choose Natural Skin Care Products?

There is approximately six pounds of skin on your body which provides a porous membrane into your system. Dirt, dust, pollutants, and other environmental pollutants enter the body through the skin, providing a more significant gateway to your system than food. The National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) found that 884 chemicals used in personal care products and cosmetics are known to be toxic. And a recent Canadian study in Pediatric Drugs found cosmetic and personal care products as the most common cause of unintentional poisonings of kids under six.

The chemicals and toxins found in most commercial skin care products also have a detrimental effect on the environment, although this effect is just beginning to be understood. In March, a team of US Geological Survey scientists showed that a variety of chemicals from personal care products were among 95 wastewater contaminants found in US waterways.

Why poison yourself and the environment with toxic chemicals and pollutants? Natural skin care products are healthier for you, for your skin, and for the environment. But many products may claim to be all-natural while still containing a number of harmful ingredients. Make sure you read and understand the product label to ensure that the product your using is as natural as it claims to be.

Reading the Ingredients Label

Organic personal care manufacturing needs strict standards and enforcement in order to be effective. Currently, some manufacturers claim their products are organic merely as a marketing gimmick. One look at their products ingredients clearly suggests otherwise. Only by tying organic beauty care closely to the National Organic Program standards can the “lifestyle” marketed by the manufacturers represent the values at the core of organic agriculture.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) classifies cosmetics into 13 categories, but it does not regulate them. According to the FDA, “A cosmetic manufacturer may use any ingredient or raw material and market the final product without government approval.” Seven toxins are banned, but many more known toxins and carcinogens are allowed in cosmetic formulations. Less than one percent of the FDA’s budget is for the evaluation of skin care products.

Many commercial skin care products have been regularly found to contain toxic chemicals. Surprisingly, most personal care products are not tested for health and safety. And because the FDA does not regulate skin care manufacturers, questionable ingredients often make their way into their formulas. These ingredients may seem harmless in the short-term, but their chemical components are stored in the fatty tissues of the body where they accumulate and magnify over time.

Cosmetics and personal care products are marketed based on the quality and content of their formulas. Many products claim to be filled with expensive vitamins, oils, and perfumes. Others claim to utilize an all-natural formula. But how can you be sure that the products you buy actually contain the ingredients they claim to have? Read the label, right? But unless you happen to be a scientist or chemist, the ingredient list on most cosmetics and personal care products will look like a long list of mind-numbing, tongue-twisting names.

This is where natural and organic skin care products should stand out. If a product claims to be all natural, its ingredients should be easily recognizable as natural components. Also, the ingredients should be listed in descending order with the most prominent factors listed first. Scrutinize the first several listings in the product to be sure that they are the natural ingredients you are looking for. If a skin care product contains an ingredient that you are unsure about, write down it's name and do a little research. A quick online search should reveal it's true nature. As a consumer, you need to be on the look out for chemicals and toxic ingredients that can be harmful to your skin and your body. You would not even think about eating a food that contained chemicals or cancer causing agents. Don't let these toxins enter your system through your beauty product either!

Dr. Group, the founder/CEO and clinical director for the Global Healing Center, heads a research and development team producing advanced, new, natural health protocols and products. To learn more visit http://www.ghchealth.com.

Natural homemade recipes for your skin are simple to make and cost-effective. What you put on your skin is just as important as what you eat. Commercial products often contain chemicals that are absorbed by your skin finding their way into the bloodstream which can be harmful to your overall health.

Virgin coconut oil/butter makes for a good moisturizer by providing a protective layer that locks in natural moisture. Coconut oil solidifies at temperatures below 78 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the coconut butter in small lip balm or eye cream jars or any small sterilized jar. For a lip balm, use coconut butter on its own or add peppermint or spearmint oil. As an acne treatment, add a couple of drops of tea tree, lavender, or patchouli oil. For wrinkles, add rose, orange or patchouli oil. To treat eczema, add chamomile, geranium, or orange oil. To treat broken capillaries, add rose, palmarosa, or parsley oil. To treat cellulite, add grapefruit, tangerine, or orange oil. For stretch marks, add palmarosa or neroli oil. To treat burns, add geranium, patchouli or lavender oil.

For sunburned skin, break open a leaf of an Aloe Vera plant and smooth onto the skin. The gel is also good for other types of burns and has soothing, cooling, antibacterial, and antifungal properties. Strawberry juice, cucumbers and avocados are also soothing to sunburned skin.

For tired eyes, place cucumber slices over your eyes. For dark circles around your eyes, place cooled tea bags over your eyes.

For a homemade facial toner, mix green tea, chamomile or ginseng tea (made with mineral water or distilled water) with lavender or lemon oil. Green tea is rich in antioxidants which fight free radicals that damage and age the skin. Green tea is said to diminish fine lines. Lavender oil is a good toner and lemon oil is a good rejuvenator and toner. Add Vitamin C crystals as a preservative and antioxidant. MSM (Methyl Sulfonyl Methane) is a natural source of organic sulfur good for the skin. Add MSM crystals to your toner or eat high sulfur foods such as kale or watercress.

Prick a capsule of Vitamin A, E, or wheat germ oil and smooth directly onto your skin, add to coconut, almond or apricot oil, or to your toner. Vitamin A is a potent antioxidant and Vitamin E is said to slow down the aging process. Almond oil soothes and lubricates the skin. Apricot oil protects and softens the skin. Wheat germ oil promotes skin elasticity.

For a moisturizing and refreshing mask, mix avocado with shredded cucumber. Avocados are rich in protein and Vitamin A. Cucumbers are cooling and cleansing. Use a mashed banana for a skin firming mask.

To lighten age spots, rub lemon directly onto your skin.

For a body powder, mix cornstarch and baking soda with your favorite essential oil. For a foot powder, mix cornstarch, baking soda and tea tree or peppermint oil. Baking soda acts as a deodorizer and soothes the skin. Tea tree oil is a natural antiseptic, germicide, antibacterial, and fungicide. Peppermint oil is soothing to the feet and swollen ankles.

Drinking plenty of water, eating raw fruits and vegetables, and getting plenty of rest are one of the best ways to achieving healthy and radiant skin. What goes into your body is reflective on your skin.

Elizabeth Kiely is the owner of EK Shower Caps and an avid user of homemade recipes.

Hair extensions - a few hours in the salon and you have long hair that looks like a dream. But is there a downside? Professionally made hair extensions can completely transform your appearance without affecting the health of your hair, but if they are done wrongly extensions can seriously damage your hair. You should know what to expect before going to the salon.

Would hair extensions cost a fortune?

Yes, extensions done by a professional hair extension artist and made from high quality hair would cost you several hundred dollars. The price really depends on the quality of the hair used - Asian hair is cheaper, while European hair costs 2-3 times more. If you want good looking hair - especially blond hair - you will have to pay for European material.

Online you might find hair extension ‘starter kits’ with complete instructions, which aren’t difficult to apply. So if you feel adventurous, you can buy a do-it-yourself kit and save significantly. If done correctly, this type of hair extension looks as good as any salon made one. If you decide to follow this route, though, make sure that you order high quality hair.

What types of hair extension are available?

The two major types of hair extension are individual strands and wefts.

Individual strands, as the name implies, are attached one piece at a time to your own hair, usually using glue, or with waxes and polymers. The problem here is that most of the attachment methods require coating your natural hair with rather unfriendly chemicals. Attaching these extensions isn’t a problem, but removing this type of extension can seriously damage your hair.

Wefts, on the other hand, are braided into your hair, so no chemicals are needed. A weft looks like a curtain of hair held together at the top and hanging freely toward the bottom. It is braided into your hair around the midline of your head - about ear level. It is safer for your hair but, on the downside, as you own hair grows wefts have to be rebraided - about once every two months.

What materials are used for hair extensions?

First, hair for extensions can be either synthetic or real human hair. Synthetic extensions are cheaper, of course, but you get what you pay for - they look like artificial strands attached to your hair. They’re not very pleasant to the touch, either.

Human hair used for extensions gives better results. Human extension hair differs by origin. The most common are hair from India and Asian countries. They are great, if you are an Asian woman yourself. Unfortunately this type of hair has a noticeably different texture from a Caucasian’s natural hair, so on Caucasian women they just don’t look right.

European hair is of better quality, usually originating from Spain and Italy, is of better quality but costs more. The only problem is that its natural color is usually coal black. To make a blond extensions out of them, Italian or Spanish hair needs to be heavily bleached.

There are also so-called ‘raw’ or ‘virgin’ hair. This is European hair coming from Central and Eastern European countries, like Russia and Poland. The advantage of this hair that it is naturally light and of a very high quality. However, this type of hair is difficult to find and costs an arm and a leg.

Tanya Turner is wig and hair extensions expert and a founder of http://www.WigsGuide.info, where you can find unbiased information about all types of wigs and hair extensions with pictures of most popular wig styles

When it comes to skin care, moisturizing is usually one of the more popular, and though it’s hard to believe, more controversial topics. Some experts swear by moisturizing as the best way to keep your skin youthful and healthy while others feel a bit more suspicious of its benefits. Since my grandma lived to 94 years of age with beautiful skin and touted the benefits of moisturizing for years, I tend to lean towards giving it a go. For many, moisturizing on a daily basis is already a daily part of their skin care regime while others are just jumping on the bandwagon for the first time. Regardless of where you fall, deep skin moisturizing is a cost effective and simple way to take hold of the hands of time and rein it in.

First, let’s discuss why your skin needs to be moisturized in the first place. Your skin needs water and oil to carry out its natural healing process. Dehydrated skin has a decreased ability to do that. Although not directly responsible for wrinkles, fine lines, and the more serious risks, such as skin cancer, dry skin is a contributing factor. Since dehydrated skin is less likely to heal itself, it is harder for your skin to recover from the negative effects of the sun and the natural aging process. For these reasons, it seems obvious that moisture is an important part of skin care and moisturizing your skin would be beneficial.

Once you have decided to moisturize, next you’ll need to know just how to go about it. There are a large variety of moisturizing products on the market today that claim to be the ultimate choice in a sea of options. With all these choices it can be difficult to decide what works best for you. Some of the easier, more natural remedies for dry skin are protecting it from the sun, drinking plenty of water, and eating a well-balanced diet high in fiber. Avoid alcohol, smoking, and caffeine. This alone will increase your skin’s moisture content without actually applying anything to it.

For some though, an application of some type of moisturizer is necessary. You want your moisturizer to contain not only moisturizing ingredients, but protective elements as well. Look for products that include in their ingredients including collagen, herbs like Gotu Kola, Flame of Forest, and Sensitive Plant, as well as biological oils. Although moisturizing your skin in most cases is beneficial, if you suffer from acne or particularly sensitive skin, you will need to use a moisturizer that is low in oils and allergen free.

The most effective time to apply a skin moisturizer is directly after showering or bathing. While the skin is saturated, the moisturizer will help to lock in the water and keep your skin moist longer.

Brian Fong
http://www.NaturalVisage.com/

Deep skin moisturizing is a cost effective and simple way to take hold of the hands of time and rein it in.

Microdermabrasion is a procedure that improves skin condition. It is effective at reducing fine lines, fine wrinkles, small scars such as acne scars (although it is not effective on deep wrinkles or deep scars), and age spots. Microdermabrasion works by emitting tiny (micro) crystals that polish (abrasion) the skin (derma). This stimulates the production of collagen and other skin cells that make the skin look healthier. The treatment sessions last for about an hour but several must be done every few weeks. Microdermabrasion does not have a permanent effect, but it has other benefits that recommend it above other skin rejuvenation techniques.

First, it has virtually no side effects. Immediately after the procedure is done, the patient is able to go about his or her life without restricting time spent in the sunlight. Second, it is a non-surgical procedure so it can be done quickly (which has given rise to calling microdermabrasion a “lunch peel”) and without anesthetic. Furthermore it works on all types and colors of skin. Unlike other skin treatments, there will not be negative effects on skin pigmentation because of microdermabrasion. People with skin types that are not suitable of these other procedures can safely undergo microdermabrasion without worrying about the negative side effects.

Want more Information about Microdermabrasion Cosmetic Surgery?

Find a qualified Cosmetic Surgeon in Your Area at http://www.sleepingswan.com

Alpha Lipoic Acid (or ALA) has received a great deal of attention recently as more and more individuals are learning about its numerous benefits. Although Alpha Lipoic Acid comes in various forms, creams are often the most easy and effective way of applying ALA.

A high quality Alpha Lipoic Acid cream can act as an effective antioxidant, anti-aging and anti-inflammatory daily skin cream, as ALA has been shown to be one of nature's most advanced and powerfully effective antioxidant and anti-inflammatory substances. It has also been shown to be especially useful in reducing fine lines and wrinkles, treating enlarged pores, bringing a healthy glow to dull, pallid skin, and reducing the appearance of under-eye bags/puffiness and blemish scars. Furthermore, when ALA is combined with substances like 100% pure, fresh Aloe Vera, Green Tea Extract, and Vitamins A& E, the benefits of an Alpha Lipoic Acid cream can be limitless.

Why does Alpha Lipoic Acid work so well? Well, ALA is considered to be a super antioxidant that is both water- and fat-soluble. As a result, ALA can penetrate any part of a cell that needs protection, and it plays an integral role in quelling inflammation, which is the condition that precedes lines and wrinkles. Quite simply, it truly acts as a wonderfully beneficial anti aging skin care product!

However, do not confuse Alpha Lipoic Acid with Alpha Hydroxy Acid. Alpha Hydroxy Acid (or AHA) is an entirely different substance with altogether different benefits. Furthermore, do not be afraid of the term “Acid” in Alpha Lipoic Acid creams. When using a high quality, reputable Alpha Lipoic Acid cream, your skin should not experience any kind of a burning sensation, unlike what the term suggests!

For more information on Alpha Lipoic Acid Cream, you can visit http://www.sensationalskin.net/.

Paige Hallett is a skin care product consultant at Sensational Skin, and holds a Masters Degree in Business from Pepperdine University. For more information on Alpha Lipoic Acid cream, please visit http://www.sensationalskin.net/

OK, so you've had a few days of steady rain, and going to the beach isn't an option. But you're starting to notice your pasty white skin, and you'd like to do something about it. Or ... it's January, and tanning outside is a little brisk.

So you head to a tanning bed, and -- voila! -- in a few short minutes, you've got that tan you wanted.

What's the problem with this scenario? You're inevitably going to get complaints from people who tell you that a tanning bed is somehow dangerous.

Nonsense.

A tanning bed is not "dangerous," is not a "voluntary coffin," (to quote my mother's dermatologist) and isn't silly.

It's a way of getting tanned, a way of getting your body's needed dose of vitamin D.

Your body doesn't differentiate: the UV rays react on the skin whether you're out on the sand for a few hours, or spending 10 minutes on a tanning bed.

10 minutes is a good rule of thumb: it's roughly equal to an hour in the sun. It's easy, relatively cheap (look for specials) and is especially good for those times when you don't have time to spend in the sun, or can't because of the weather.

Of course, watch your time. Most places won't let you use more than 20 minutes at a pop, but even that's a long time, if you haven't had any UV exposure for a while. Start slow, ease in, and enjoy your tan.

And if it's December, enjoy the envy of your pasty-skinned friends. If your looking good bothers them, suggest they get therapy.

Jim Huffman, RN specializes in natural and alternative healing therapies. His first book is 'Dare to Be Free: How to Get Control of Your Time, Your Life, and Your Nursing Career,' and is aimed at helping other nurses find satisfying, dynamic careers. His website is http://www.NetworkForNurses.com and his health blog is at http://www.shababa.blogspot.com

One of the most important roles of our skin is to protect our ‘insides’ from the external environment, acting both as a barrier and a filter between ‘outside’ and ‘inside’. In addition, the skin is involved in regulating our body’s temperature, like when we have a fever or we’re physically working hard, we tend to sweat, which is the body’s way to attempt to lower the temperature.

Another important role of our skin is to protect us from harmful substances entering our body, and in eliminating toxins. This takes workload off our Liver and Kidneys to filter out by-products from our body’s metabolism. The skin also breathes!

Hormones, Sweat glands and pH

The pores of our skin are made up of a combination of oil and sweat glands (sebaceous and sudoriferous glands) helping to keep our skin healthy and elastic. An excessive sebum secretion is often associated with oily skin and acne. This is particularly common in adolescents as the increased levels of sex hormones stimulate sebum production and secretion. When in balance, the combined excretion of oil and sweat from the skin’s pores has a pH of about 5.5.

The Acid Mantle, Age and the importance of the skin's pH

This slightly acidic layer, also referred to as the “Acid Mantle”, is our body’s first defence mechanism against bacteria invading it and is not a favourable environment bacterial growth to occur. This defence layer develops at puberty, which is why children are more susceptible to disease, viruses and fungal infections such are ringworm. The pH of children’s skin is closer to neutral (pH 7).

At puberty, however, we start to produce more hair on our bodies. Hair follicles have an associated sebaceous gland or glands which become active as hair growth increases, causing changes in the skin’s pH. The hormones that control sweat also become active and the whole surface of a teenager’s skin is totally different to that of a young child. This is our body’s way to increase our defence system.

The pH of normal, healthy human skin is somewhere between 4.5 and 6. However, this varies with age. Typically, newborns have a pH closer to neutral (pH 7) that quickly turns acidic in order to protect young children’s skin.

In the late teens to early 20’s, our Acid Mantle is well developed and provides good protection against potentially harmful, external environmental factors. Our skin usually looks healthy, heals quickly when injured and seems to take care of itself.

With increasing age however, the skin’s pH becomes more and more neutral, and thus more susceptible to bacterial growth. This reduced acidity kills fewer bacteria than before, leaving the skin susceptible to bacterial growth and infections. The skin weakens as a result and begins developing problems with increasing age. (Interestingly, the pH value rises beyond 6 when a person actually suffers from a skin problem or skin disease.)

The aging process of the skin causes biochemical changes in collagen and elastin, the connective tissues underlying the skin, which give the skin its firmness (collagen) and elasticity (elastin). The rates of loss of skin firmness and elasticity differs from individual to individual, depending on their genetic makeup, general health, over exposure to the sun, skin care regime, or lack there of, and other factors.

As the skin becomes less elastic, it also becomes drier; the underlying fatty tissue begins to disappear resulting in the skin beginning to sag. Our skin is less supple, and wrinkles begin to form. At this stage, our skin is more easily injured, heals more slowly and tends to dry out more quickly.

The role of pH in Acne

As outlined above, the skin’s pH is important and maintaining a slightly acidic pH of around 5.5 is critical.

The skin’s pH value is one of the major contributors to acne and other skin problems. Propionibacterium acnes is a bacteria that normally lives on the skin and is a normal bacteria found in all persons regardless of the presence or absence of acne.

However, in individuals prone to acne, the number of P. acnes is greatly increased. It has been found that the growth of this bacteria is very much dependent on the pH value of the skin and its growth is at its minimum at the normal skin pH of 5.5. A slight shift towards the alkaline pH would provide a better environment in which it can thrive.

Importance of the skin's pH: Do's & Don'ts

One of the major culprits that radically alter the pH of the skin, is soap. Ordinary, commercially available soaps are highly alkaline (pH range 9-11) and raise the skin’s pH to be much more alkaline. This can be adjusted by using products such as Wildcrafted Herbal Products' Wild Herb Toner or Milk of Roses Toner, depending on your skin type. These toners restore normal pH of the skin and thus provide an environment not conducive to the growth of bacteria. In addition, soap dries out the skin, because of its high alkalinity.

Thus if you choose to use a commercially available soap, you must restore the pH of your skin to prevent loss of moisture and the excessive growth of bacteria. It is important to remember that this applies to the entire surface of your skin, not just the face.

Instead of using ordinary soap, you need to use products such as the Skin Renewal Gel from Wildcrafted Herbal Products, which cleanses your skin, removing dead skin cells and leaving your skin’s pH as it is meant to be. Following this with the use of a Toner will close the open pores, preventing blackheads and loss of moisture from the skin.

Other factors influencing your skin's pH

Another factor that helps in regulating your skin’s pH is the presents of microflora on your skin. Staphylococcus epidermis is involved in the breakdown of fatty acids, and is therefore partly responsible for the acidic pH of skin. The use of ordinary soap, not only changes the pH of the skin to be more alkaline, effectively removing the protective acid mantle, but also kills the bacteria responsible for creating, at least in part, the acidic pH of your skin – a double whammy.

It is therefore of great importance to have a good skin care regime in which high quality, natural skin care products are employed. There are a couple of simple steps to take before buying a particular brand of natural skin care products.

• Identify the skin type(s) on the face. There are usually two or more. One skin type is usually isolated to the T-Zone (forehead and nose), the other applies to the rest of the facial skin.

• Carefully select your natural skin care products. It is not good enough to choose products, which add natural ingredients to an otherwise non-natural base crème or lotion, as is the case in many supermarket brands. READ the label carefully, ask questions and if you are buying the products on-line, make sure there is a guarantee that allows you some time to evaluate the products before they need to be returned for a refund.

• Look for manufacturers that have qualified herbalists or naturopaths on staff. These people generally do not support the use of artificial ingredients because it goes against everything they teach their patients, friends and family. – For the most part, it’s a pretty good indication that the products are pure, when natural therapists are in charge of the formulation of the products.

About The Author

Danny Siegenthaler is a doctor of traditional Chinese medicine and together with his wife Susan, a medical herbalist and Aromatherapist, they have created Natural Skin Care Products by Wildcrafted Herbal Products to share their 40 years of combined expertise with you.

Wildcrafted Herbal Products' natural skin care range is suitable for men and women and contains only pure, natural ingredients, formulated according to Naturopathic and Aromatherapy principles.

Join our Natural Skin Care Newsletter – it’s fun, free and Informative and you receive a free eBook on natural skin care.

© Copyright: Wildcrafted Herbal Products 2005

It must be Halloween or you are in a play if you are thinking about buying novelty contact lenses. Quite a few of the special effects that are shown in the movies are done with these special costume contact lenses. They can be really enticing to wear because they certainly are different, but they must be used safely and with caution. Some of the styles and ways you can wear them are:

• Put on a black cat suit and one of the different styles and colors of cat eyes

• Dress in red with a fork and wear devil lenses

• Put on a tuxedo and wear vampire lenses

• Make your eyes appear red or black with total coverage

• If you want to support your favorite NFL team, you can get contacts that display your team name

• You can look like a reptile with a green lens and a black vertical slit going through it

• A whimsical lens would be a smiley face, flower, or dollar signs

• Contact lenses that feature flames would be fun for a devil costume

• Lenses can change color if when exposed to a black light so they would be even more noticeable at a club

• Show your patriotism with an American flag, or the Union Jack.

• There are eye drops that you can put in your eye to make them appear dead

• What kind of animal do you want to look like? How about a cat, jaguar, zebra, wolf or reptile?

• A novelty contact lens used in one eye only would look really scary or funky.

• These are only a few of the wild choices that you can find online from a reputable dealer or from your eye care professional.

There is a down side to the use of novelty lenses. All of the costume lenses on the market are seen by the FDA as medical devices so you must have a prescription to buy them. They do not carry any kind of corrective prescription; it is just as though they were a plain pair of glasses with fake lenses in them. Black market contacts have been more places than ever before. You might find the novelty lenses in a gas station, flea market, or salon. If you get them from somewhere other than a reputable distributor, you could be inviting serious permanent eye injury. Definitely stay away from those lenses because you just can’t put your eyes at such risk. They can also present a danger because many of the styles limit the amount of light that enters the eye. Your peripheral vision may also be restricted, causing problems while driving or even walking.

Novelty contact lenses can be safe to wear as long as you follow the guidelines from your eye care professional. Never swap lenses with your friends. If they aren’t fitted specifically for you, they can cause eye injury and will be very uncomfortable to wear. You wouldn’t do that with corrective contacts and you shouldn’t do that with these. Clean them just as you would other lenses, and don’t sleep or swim in them. If you get a proper prescription from your eye doctor and get them from a reputable dealer, you should be able to have fun with the lenses and create the theatrical or scary look you are trying to achieve.

Beverly Marshall is a successful freelance writer offering guidance and suggestions for consumers buying contact lenses, reading glasses, safety glasses and more. Her many articles found on http://www.contact-lenses-4u.net and http://www.contact-lenses-4u.net/reading_glasses.htm give information and tips to help you save money and make informed buying decisions.

How to keep your skin looking great!

Invest some time and care!

Everyone wants to have younger looking skin. Unfortunately, even the most expensive skin care products, with all their claims of 'reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles', can't turn back the years. However, don't despair! There are steps that we can all take to make sure our skin looks healthy and vibrant and stays wrinkle-free for longer. All we've got to do is invest some time and care in looking after it.

It is important to understand the basic function of our skin in order to look after it properly. The skin is our body’s largest organ and comprises three major layers:

The Epidermis: This layer has five sub-layers; the outer layer consists of mainly dead cells which are continuously shed and replaced by cells beneath. The epidermis is also responsible for ‘water proofing’ your skin, protecting your skin from potential invasion of microbes and generate new skin cells which move from the deep layer of the epidermis to the outer layer, where they are eventually shed.

The Dermis: Is the ‘middle layer of the skin and is composed of connective tissue containing collagen and elastin. The dermis is thick in the palms and soles and very thin in the eyelids. It contains blood vessels, nerves, glands, and hair follicles.

The Subcutaneous layer: This layer consists of areolar and adipose tissue. Fibres from the dermis extend down into the subcutaneous layer and anchor the skin to it. The subcutaneous layer, in turn, attaches to underlying tissues and organs.

Aging of the skin

There are several factors influencing how quickly our skin ages, ranging from genetic factors, your natural skin type, as well as external factors such as exposure to sunlight, environmental factors and whether you smoke or not. In general, pale skins wrinkle faster than darker skins, which are protected by increased amounts of pigment and lipids.

Another vital factor is, of course, our age. Our skin looks and functions very differently at 20 as opposed to when we are 60.

Below is a skin care plan of how to look after your skin as the decades go by and how to adapt your skin care regime accordingly.

Looking after your skin in your 20s

Your 20s is a great time for your skin. You've left behind the adolescence acne and your skin has a radiant, youthful glow and the epidermis is well toned.

However, this is not the time to be complacent. In your 20s skin cell renewal drops by up to 28 per cent, dead skin cells are not as easily shed and external factors are starting to have a greater impact, leaving your skin slightly duller.

According to dermatologists, 80 per cent of all aging can be directly related to exposure to sunlight. Therefore, it is a good idea to avoid the mid-day sun, or if you have to be out in the heat of the day (especially in countries like Australia), than cover up. Penetrating UVA rays will start to damage collagen fibres and elastin coils in your skin.

Smoking one factor you can control and now would be a good time to quite. Smoking inhibits oxygen getting to the outer layer of your skin and has a premature aging effect. In addition, smoking can cause fine lines around the mouth over the years and this is to be avoided – if you want to keep your good looks.

Looking after your skin in your 30s

By the time you get to your 30s skin cell turnover has slowed. Environmental damage from pollution, smoke and sunlight are starting to take their toll on the dermis, causing collagen fibres to loosen so that skin starts to loose its tone and develop fine lines and wrinkles. When you smile, subcutaneous fat forms ridges and refuse to bounce back as readily as it once did. Your first wrinkles may start to appear.

By now you should have established a daily skincare regime that involves exfoliating (two or three times a week), cleansing, moisturising and sun protection for your skin. In your 30s, it's important to maintain a balanced diet consisting of fresh fruits, vegetables, grains and fish, which are high in antioxidants such as Vitamins A, B, C and E. These Vitamins counteract free radicals in your body that help the skin to repair itself, produce the enzymes that stabilise collagen production, and stay moist and healthy. For further protection, try using a day crème, such as one that contains vitamin E, for example: Wildcrafted’s Age Defying Essence.

Alcohol should only be consumed in moderation as it deprives your skin of vital nutrients and may cause your facial blood vessels to become dilated leading to permanent, red ‘spider veins’ on your cheeks and in men often across the nose.

Maintaining well hydrated tissues by drinking plenty of water each and every day (3 litres a day is not at all excessive) is vital to retain moisture in your skin. In addition, you should ensure that you get enough quality sleep.

Looking after your skin in your 40s

In your 40s, collagen fibres decrease in number, stiffen, break apart, and form into a shapeless, matted tangle. Elastic fibres lose some of their elasticity, thicken into clumps, and fray. The result is the skin forms crevices and furrows known as lines and wrinkles. In addition, loss of fat in the subcutaneous layer leaves your skin more fragile, whereas the dermis will continue to lose its elasticity. A rich nourishing night crème, such as Wildcrafted’s rejuvenating night crème, becomes a vital part of your skin care regime.

During this time the stratum corneum (the outer layer of the epidermis) starts to grow even thicker, as dead skin cells hang around for longer. If you are not already using an exfoliant regularly, now is a good time to get into the habit of exfoliating your skin regularly using a facial scrub – 2-3 times a week is all that’s necessary. You could also use a cream containing Rose oil, Jojoba oil or similar, as these contain natural AHA’s (alpha hydroxy acids) and to help remove dead skin cells.

As deeper wrinkles start to form, you may wish to use a complete skin care system, which systematically helps you to nourish and moisturise your skin on all levels. Choose natural skin care products for your daily skin care regime, as you do not want to introduce unnecessary toxins into your system by using products full of unpronounceable chemicals. Quality natural skin care systems, such as Wildcrafted’s range of natural skin care systems should be matched to your specific skin type.

Looking after your skin in your 50s and above

As we reach our 50s and beyond, the hair and nails grow more slowly. Langerhans cells (involved in the immune response, dwindle in number, thus decreasing the immune responsiveness of older skin. Decreased size of sebaceous (oil) glands leads to dry and broken skin that is more susceptible to infection.

In women, after the menopause, decreased oestrogen levels mean that skin lose its plumpness and tone, and it may be left dry, itchy and more sensitive to allergens.

At this stage in your life it is important to take that extra care of your skin’s health. Mature skin is more fragile, prone to injury and infection and bruises easily. As if this was not bad enough, it also takes longer to heal. Taking care of your skin will reduce the aging effect; keep it healthier as well as more resistant to injury and infections. Remember, a face that has a lived in look is much more attractive than a Botox face and character is much more beauty.

About The Author

Danny Siegenthaler is a doctor of traditional Chinese medicine and together with his wife Susan, a medical herbalist and Aromatherapist, they have created Natural Skin Care Products by Wildcrafted Herbal Products to share their 40 years of combined expertise with you.

Join our Natural Skin Care Newsletter – it’s fun, free and Informative and you receive a free eBook on natural skin care.

For many of us, we go through most of our lives paying minimal attention to our skin. Sure, we moisturize and hopefully use our SPF30 on a regular basis but pampering our skin on a daily basis is not practical for most people.

Then one day we wake up and notice that the face we’ve paid little attention to over the years has just started looking a little worn. We might begin to see a few more noticeable lines or we might look a little tired with bags under our eyes. Our eyelids may look a bit droopier and our cheeks might sag a little more than they use to.

Ten to twenty years ago there weren't many options to droopy, saggy, wrinkled skin but today we have lots of them and cosmetic surgery is looming to the top of the list as one of the most popular remedies around.

Did you know that according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, men accounted for 1.2 million cosmetic procedures in 2004? It's a known fact that men don't want to look any older than women do.

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) the top 5 cosmetic procedures were:

For women:
1 Liposuction
2 Breast Augmentation
3 Eyelid Surgery
4 Facelift
5 Chemical Peel

For Men:
1 Nose Reshaping
2 Eyelid Surgery
3 Liposuction
4 Hair Transplantation
5 Breast Reduction

The new five-year trending data shows cosmetic procedures are up 24 percent from 2000.

Also in the running are the non-surgical procedures which have increased as much as 7% in 2004. They include such procedures as:
- Botox
- Laser hair removal
- Chemical peels
- microdermabrasions

So is cosmetic surgery right for you?

Well, I can't speak for everyone but there are a few things to consider and some questions you should ask yourself before going under the knife..

First and foremost, cosmetic surgery is ‘surgery’ and it hurts - ouch! As with any surgery, there is a healing period and there is swelling and puffiness immediately afterwards. Don't expect to look beautiful right out of surgery. It's going to take some time and patience.

Understand that a nose job or a face lift won't necessarily make you beautiful and it probably won't change how the world feels about you. In fact, patients have been known to feel a sense of disappointment after their procedures and for this reason it’s important to understand how significant the changes will be, they may only be very subtle.

If you're considering plastic surgery ask yourself these things first:

Why do I want cosmetic surgery? Who am I doing this for?

If it's because your friend says you have a big nose or if you think looking more beautiful for your husband he will pay more attention to you then,you're a poor candidate. Hoping to impress your friends or hoping your husband will be more attentive are poor reasons.

A new face, nose or body won't change how others feel about you and if it does, it will only be temporary.

Can I afford This?

Most cosmetic surgery is not covered by health insurance unless it is health related. If you have to scrape money together to do this you're better off looking into non-surgical or less invasive treatments.

What if the results are not what I expected? Again, there's a chance that expectations won't be met. Be sure you are ready financially and emotionally to undergo more treatment if you're results are underwhelming.

As with any high cost, risky procedure, think it through. Don't act on a whim. Discuss the procedure with relatives and friends. Get some outside opinions.

If you're still interested in pursuing cosmetic surgery be sure you are in good health. A good candidate doesn't smoke, is emotionally stable and does not experience any major health disorders such as heart disease, diabetes or blood pressure issues.

Elizabeth McGee is an online skincare consultant who reviews skincare products and their benefits.

Visit Elizabeth's website: http://www.fine-skin-care-products.com and receive your free 'Beauty and Weight Loss Tips Guide'.

Tanning beds were brought to North America by German scientist Friedrich Wolff in 1978 and rose to popularity in the mid-1980s. Since then, tanning beds have been a common way to tan without having to spend hours and hours in the sun’s unpredictable radiation.

Make no mistake: the ultraviolet light used in tanning beds is almost exactly the same kind of ultraviolet light that comes from the sun, and therefore comes with the same risks. But if you understand how tanning beds work and how to use them without abusing them, tanning beds can be a great way to get that perfect olive or bronze hue you’ve been yearning for.

All conventional tanning beds have lamps that produce ultraviolet radiation – both UVB and UVA rays. The UVB rays are accountable for stimulating production of the naturally occurring skin pigment melanin. However, minor overexposure to UVB rays causes burn, while major overexposure is linked to skin cancers. The UVA rays are the ones that oxidize the melanin, producing the golden brown color. The UVA rays account for the majority of rays originating in the lamps or bulbs in a tanning bed.

If you are using a conventional bed, first develop a base tan by tanning for twenty to thirty minutes, three to five times a week, for about four weeks. Then, maintain the tan by tanning two to three times a week thereafter.

High-pressure tanning beds are different, in that they utilize only UVA rays and no UVB rays. The term “high-pressure” refers to the atmosphere inside the lamps or bulbs, which are made out of quartz. The higher air pressure is what allows the lamp or bulb to filter out virtually all UVB rays - the rays that produce burn. The result is a faster, deeper, longer-lasting tan.

If you are using a high-pressure tanning bed, develop a base tan by tanning for ten to twelve minutes, three to five times total, over a matter of ten to fourteen days. Maintain the tan with only two or three visits per month.

Use a tanning bed lotion or “tan accelerator” to increase tanning speed and quality. Apply tan accelerator all over your body before and after your tanning session, since melanin oxidization and production continues long after you’ve been exposed to UV light. This will keep your skin cool, comfortable, moisturized, and just generally healthier.

Always wear tanning goggles while inside the tanning bed. Simply closing your eyes or wearing regular sunglasses is not enough protection from UV light.

Tanning Beds Info provides detailed information about home, commercial, and wholesale tanning beds for sale, as well as tanning bed lotion and other products and accessories. Tanning Beds Info is the sister site of Sunless Tanning Web.

Hyaluronic acid has firmly secured its place among wrinkle removal products. Specifically, hyaluronic acid is now commonly being considered for use alongside botox, collagen and fat injections in the fight against wrinkles. Moreover, hyaluronic acid products tend to last longer than its competition.

For nearly 10 years, Botox injections have been used to treat fines lines and wrinkles in the face. While Botox has few side effects, the desired anti-wrinkle effects only last three to six months. Collagen, a natural protein, has been used for over 25 years. Like Botox, however, the effects are short-term and the process needs to be repeated within three to four months. Another anti-wrinkle procedure, fat transfer, occurs when fat is removed from one part of the body via liposuction and used to fill in wrinkles. This is obviously a more involved procedure. Regardless, the results are not permanent, as losses of facial subcutaneous fat are a natural part of the aging process.

Hyaluronic acid, while not yet FDA approved, has been successfully used in Canada in Europe. It has gained respect for its non-invasive nature, and endurance versus Botox and collagen. In fact, Hyaluronic acid results tend to last up to six to nine months. Like Botox and collagen, Hyaluronic acid studies show a low frequency of allergic reaction.

The benefits of hyaluronic acid have resulted in its increased use among both men and women. According to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, in 2004 the total number of Hyaluronic acid facial injections procedures in the U.S. increased nearly 100 times from the prior year, from 9,635 Hyaluronic acid injections in 2003 to 882,469 injections in 2004.

Hyaluronic Acid Resources is dedicated to promoting an understanding of Hyaluronic acid, a major ingredient in many medical and anti-aging therapies and to highlighting places where you can safely purchase Hyaluronic acid products.

For more information go to http://www.E-Hyaluronicacid.com

In the self-care and beauty industry, the latest craze is to include sugar in skin care products. If you search the internet you will find everything from sugar body scrubs to sugar hair removers. The prices can range from $8.00 to $35.00 for each product. How’s that for a product in which the main ingredient can cost you a no more that $3.00 for a 5 pound bag!

To enjoy all of the benefits of a sugar based product without shelling out the big bucks, trys these recipes:

Orange Cream Sugar Body Scrub

This recipe is great to remove dead skin and give your skin a healthy glow. The sugar contains glycolic acid and the cream is a source for lactic acid. Avoid irritated or broken skin areas.

Ingredients: ½ cup sugar, 2 TBSP cream or whole milk, 5 drops orange oil, and 1 cup olive, jojoba, or almond oil

Mix sugar, oil and cream together. Add orange oil after main ingredients are completely mixed.

Apply to your body by starting at the feet and working your way up. Massage in a circular motion and leave it on for 10-15 minutes, then shower it off. This recipe is enough to make one full body treatment.

Lemon Head Sugar Body Scrub

This recipe is both cleansing and detoxifying. Lemon is very detoxifying to the body and will also help brighten the skin.

Ingredients: ½ cup sugar, 10 drops lemon oil, or ½ a lemon freshly squeezed, and 1 cup olive, jojoba, or almond oil

Mix all ingredients together. Apply to your body by starting at the feet and working your way up. Massage in a circular motion, then shower it off. This recipe is enough to make one full body treatment.

Facial Cleanser

Ingredients:

white or brown sugar, your favorite facial cleanser, witch hazel, and water

Using your favorite daily facial soap, an easy, inexpensive facial scrub can be made by adding sugar. Simply add a teaspoon of either white sugar or brown sugar and massage it gently on your facial skin. Rinse with cool water and spritz your face with a ½ witch hazel and ½ water mixture.

Sugar is a natural and inexpensive way to include alpha-hydroxy acids in your skincare program. It produces glycolic acid, an alpha hydroxy acid, which is included in many skincare product lines. Today’s pricey beauty products that include sugar or alpha hydroxy acid, can be created inexpensively right at your kitchen table. You can experience all of the benefits without the inflated price.

Danielle Sims explored her library of alternative health, herbal books, and aromatherapy books and created a blueprint for making her own body wrap formulas at home. Now she offers this information in an e-book entitled Wrap Yourself Slim: Body Wrap Exposed. Monthly newsletter is also available at her web site. For more information go to http://www.wrapyourselfslim.com

Pregnancy is a wonderful time in a woman’s life. One aspect of child-bearing, however, may not be so welcomed. For 75-90% of pregnant women, stretch marks, or striae gravidum, can appear in the later half of pregnancy. Stretch marks do not pose any health risk to either the mother or child, but can cause anxiety over their appearance for those who develop them. Stretch marks first appear as raised striations which vary in colour from pink, purple or brown, depending on the mother’s normal skin colour. Striations develop where fat is stored in the body, such as the abdomen, thighs, hips, buttocks, breasts and arms.

Stretch marks develop during pregnancy because of rapid and excessive weight gain in areas such as the lower abdomen or thighs. As weight increases, the collagen and elastin in the dermal layer of the skin, responsible for retaining shape and firmness, is stretched to the point of breaking. The dermis is the layer beneath the epidermis, or visible layer of the skin. The elastic fibres in the dermis weaken with stretching and increased cortisone levels normally produced in the last trimester. As these fibres separate and the skin stretches, collagen is overproduced to form scar tissue which result in striations.

There is no cure for stretch marks. The scarring process that has occurred in the dermis cannot be reversed, but stretch marks will flatten, fade and lighten over time. Creams which contain steroids such as hydrocortisone, or active agents like tretinoin (retin-A) should not be used during pregnancy, and especially not during the first trimester when the fetus is highly vulnerable. Plastic surgery methods are available to reduce the appearance of stretch marks, such as dermabrasion or laser, but treatments are expensive and results vary.

Genetics play a role in whether a pregnant woman will develop stretch marks, but equally influential factors are the condition of the skin and nutrition in determining the onset and severity of stretch mark development. Well-hydrated and healthy skin stretches more easily, so drinking plenty of fluids and eating foods rich in vitamin C, vitamin E, zinc and silica, a component in collagen formation, are beneficial.

Lotions, creams and other topical treatments will not reach the dermis, but they can help relieve the itchiness or dryness associated with stretch marks. Keeping the skin moisturized decreases any discomfort that may be felt and if stretch marks are treated when they first appear, their appearance may be reduced significantly. Massaging nutrient-rich natural oils such as wheatgerm, jojoba or vitamin E can help heal the epidermis and also increase blood circulation to the affected area, assisting the healing process. Pregnant women should avoid products containing clary sage, basil, cinnamon or thyme, as these might adversely affect the fetus.

Stretch marks eventually fade and become less obvious over time. Maintaining a balanced perspective about stretch marks can keep pregnancy a most precious time for mother and baby.

References:

- http://www.naturalmakeup.ca

Lori Stryker has been researching and developing all natural skin care and make-up for the purpose of offering men and women safe, natural cosmetics for everyday use. She brings to her research a specialist in human biology from the University of Toronto, coupled with a professional home economics degree and an education degree from the University of British Columbia, fusing chemical and biological knowledge with food, family and textile sciences.

You may use this article but any modification or publication of this article for fiancial gain must be approved of by the author. The author's name, Lori Stryker and her company's name, The Organic Make-up Company, needs to by noted when used.

Lanolin n.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.

There is a universal, absolute, immutable, infrangible, and inviolable fact of the universe (like gravity and bad breath) that one rarely considers: No matter what you tell your haircut person (notice how nonsexist that was) about how you want your hair cut it will NEVER come out the way you want it, EVER!

You will get the haircut the person who is cutting your hair wants to give you.

This has always been true since Adam first asked Eve to cut his hair and it came out looking like the raccoon he just named. This is true. It's in the Bible.

This has always been my experience whenever I went to the barber in the United States. He or she (there I am again acknowledging both sexes) would ask me how I wanted to have my haircut. I would mumble something incomprehensible, to which they would always say,

"Alrighty, let's see what we can do."

In addition, it would come out looking like the haircut person wanted it to. I would tell them thank you, pay them a fortune, and walk out with my head hung low.

Now, imagine, if you will, having to try this in Mexico in Spanish! It is the same here. They ask you how you want your hair cut and you have to come up with an explanation.

I prepared diligently for the day I knew would eventually come. I had this Spanish book with a dialogue in it called, "Let's get our hair cut!"

I memorized the pertinent vocabulary. I even practiced hand gestures in the mirror to pantomime how short I wanted my hair and where to cut and how much. I had this down to a science and was confident that I was finally, for the first time in my life, going to get the haircut I wanted. You see I thought, stupidly, that somehow it would be different here.

So, my wife and I went into the hairstylist place. She went, not that she needed a haircut, but to hold my hand.

I told the haircut person, with unfailing linguistic accuracy, how I wanted my hair cut. He mumbled something back to my clear and succinct Spanish that I did not understand, and then got to work.

When it was done, I put on my glasses. When I looked into the mirror, I looked like a taller and slightly skinner version of Drew Carey.

I pulled my visor over my head, paid the guy, and slithered off.

I let it grow out and tried this again only with a different "establishment." This time it was a woman who cut my hair. I went through the whole routine again. Only this time, I contacted a fellow expat, who is a fluent Spanish speaker, and got haircut-explaining lessons from him.

I was even better prepared.

I went through the ordeal but came out looking like a fatter version of Justin Timberlake.

This is when the universal law of haircutting was first firmly established in my mind. No matter where you go on this planet, you will always get the haircut the haircutter THINKS you want and there is nothing you can do about it—ever!

I knew I had to do something. I couldn't afford to go to the United States just to get a haircut.

What I now do is take my passport with me to get a haircut. For my passport picture, I had my head shaved to a velvety shrub. I could use my head as a brillo-pad.

This has been working every time. This leaves no room for creative license for the haircutting person and it comes out exactly as I want it each time. It is foolproof!

I am happy. My hair is happy. It is one less worry. Except try going to the doctor and explain how you have the painful and embarrassing itch of hemorrhoids.

Doug Bower is a freelance writer and book author. His most recent writing credits include The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, The Houston Chronicle, and The Philadelphia Inquirer, and Transitions Abroad. He lives with his wife in Guanajuato, Mexico.

His new book, Mexican Living: Blogging it from a Third World Country can be seen at http://www.lulu.com/content/126241

The human skin wraps and protects our bodies. It constitutes a living, dynamic tissue system. It has the remarkable ability to absorb applied products, partially or completely, into the bloodstream. In fact, up to 60% of the products we use on our skin are absorbed and deposited into the circulatory system (Fairley, 2001). For instance, the average woman absorbs 30 pounds of the ingredients contained in moisturizers over sixty years (Dr.Hauschka).

These new understandings of how the skin functions reveal concerns about the possible long term effects due to the combination of chemicals used in cosmetics, often termed the "chemical cocktail effect". Several chemicals which are used in common, popular cosmetics are known irritants and carcinogens. Concern stems from the knowledge that most of these ingredients are derived synthetically or from petroleum. Avoiding these substances serve to decrease overall exposure to harmful or irritating cosmetic ingredients.

Ingredients to Avoid Forms Found in Cosmetics and Possible Negative Side Effects

Aluminum
- Thought to contribute to Alzheimer's Disease.

- Found in almost all antiperspirants.

- Works by blocking pores so sweat cannot be released by the skin.

Artificial colours
- FD&C, derived from coal tar.

- For example, Azo dyes are a risk to asthmatics, eczema sufferers and people sensitive to aspirin.

- Causes hyperactivity in children, severe headaches, blurred vision and itchy/watery eyes and nose (Antczak, 2001).

Benzoates
- Benzoates Benzoic acid, sodium benzoate or parahydroxy benzoate.

- Used as a preservative in cosmetics and fizzy drinks.Causes gastric irritation, numbing of the mouth and aggravates asthma (Antczak, 2001).

Certain essential oils
- Rosemary is harmful to epileptics.Sage is not recommended for pregnant women.

DEA, MEA, TEA
- Causes allergic reactions, irritating to eyes and dries out hair and skin (Fairley, 2001).

Dibutyl phthalate
- Found in all persons tested by the CDC (Center for Disease Control, USA) in a 2000 Fall study.

- Highest levels were found in women of reproductive age.

- Causes birth defects in animals, and damaging to the male reproductive system (ABC News, Internet Ventures 2000).

- Used in cosmetics to assist the absorption of other ingredients.

Formaldehydes
- A preservative.

- Causes skin reactions.

- Imidazolidinyl urea is the second most identified preservative causing contact dermatitis ( American Academy of Dermatology: Fairley, 2001).

- DMDM hydantoin

- Quaternium 15

- Diazolidinylurea

- 2-bromo-2-nitropropane-1

- 3-diol

Fragrances
- Can contain up to 200 undeclared substances (Fairley, 2001).

- Major cause, in addition to artificial colours, of skin irritations and allergies (Antczak, 2001).

- May cause dizziniess, skin irritation and hyperpigmentation (Fairley, 2001).

Genetically Modified Organisms
- Soy, Corn

- Effects still undetermined.

Isopropyl Alcohol
- Drying agent, from petroleum.

Keratolytic chemicals
- Such as hydroxyl acids, retinoic acid.

- Corrosive, used in skin peels.

- Dissolves the stratum corneum of the epidermis (outermost layer), making skin more sensitive to sun damage.

- Accelerates production of dead skin cells; the skin thickens to repair its surface so that vulnerable skin cells underneath are protected from the effects of skin peeling.(Antczak, 2001).

Methylisothiazolinone
- Causes allergic reactions and irritations (Fairley, 2001).

Parabens
- Petroleum product.

- Triggers skin irritations and may be an xerestrogen (Fairley, 2001).May play a role in falling sperm counts and rising breast cancer rates (Fairley, 2001).Used in 99% of all cosmetics (Fairley, 2001), and in many so-called 'natural' products.

Parraffin
- Derived from petroleum.

- In the form of wax, mineral oil or petrolatum.

- Comedogenic, i.e.blocks pores.

Propylene Glycol
- When derived from petroleum.

- Increases the amount of acid in the body, resulting in metabolic problems.

- Large amounts are needed to produce this effect (Agency forToxic Substances and Disease Registry or ATSDR, 2003).

Sodium laureth sulfate, sodium lauryl sulfate
- Forms carcinogenic nitrogen compounds when combined with specific ingredients.

- Irritating to eyes, skin and lungs (Antczak, 2001).

- Harmful if swallowed and may cause damage to eyes (Antczak, 2001).

Tallow
- Animal fat.

- Not suitable for vegans, and may be a skin irritant.

Toluene
- Found in many nail products and nail polish removers.

- Produced during the process of making gasoline and other fuels from crude oil or coal.

- Evaporates into the air when products containing toluene are opened.

- May affect the nervous system, and/or cause tiredness, confusion, weakness, nausea, or loss of appetite.

- Symptoms disappear when exposure is eliminated (ATSDR, 2003).

In Canada, not all cosmetics list their ingredients on their labels, but most have toll free telephone numbers which link you to their customer service departments, where inquiries about ingredient lists can be made. Reading labels and recognizing problematic ingredients are necessary skills for a consumer who intends to choose products that are completely natural. The cost of a cosmetic is not a reliable indicator of either its quality or natural characteristics. Most cosmetics, from the lowest priced, to the most costly brands, are composed of identical base ingredients (Begoun, 1991).

Cosmetics do not stay on the surface of the skin without penetrating to some degree. Lipstick wearers, for example, consume 1.5 to 4 tubes in a lifetime (Aveda). If one considers the ingredients being internalized by the body, absorbing plant oils and waxes, mineral pigments or essential oils is a healthier alternative than absorbing petroleum by-products and synthetic chemicals. The ability to choose the right cosmetics for you depends on accurate ingredient knowledge, personal needs and market choices. Caring for one's whole body includes skin care choices that support and contribute to a healthy lifestyle.

Natural cosmetic products and make-up are safer, healthier alternatives especially when these products are composed of all natural ingredients. A natural product is described as one that contains mostly or completely naturally derived ingredients (Antczak, 2001). It also indicates that the product is free from, or contains minute amounts of artificial chemical additives. Caution is required when products claim to be natural. For instance, they may contain small amounts of plant extracts, but the bulk of the product is petroleum based and loaded with fragrances. Instead, consider switching to completely natural products, which perform to the same standard as their non-natural counterparts. The Organic Make-up Company offers a wide range of simple, affordable and high quality products. Our cosmetic products are carefully formulated from plant waxes, plant oils, essential oils from flowers, barks and spices, as well as richly coloured mineral pigments.

Switching to all-natural cosmetic products and make-up can help you to avoid feeding your skin harmful chemicals. Many skin problems, such as acne, contact dermatitis, irritations and allergies may disappear once petroleum or synthetic ingredients are removed from your skin care regimen. Using fully natural products can contribute to healthy skin and a healthy body in the long term.

We invite you to give our natural products a try. They are completely natural, vegan and an excellent alternative to conventional cosmetics and make-up.

To view our products, please visit our website at http://www.organicmakeup.ca.

References:

- Antczak, Dr. Stephen and Gina, (2001). Cosmetics Unmasked, Harper Collins, London.

- Begoun, Paula, (1991). Don't Go To The Cosmetics Counter Without Me, Beginnings Press, Seattle.

- Fairley, Josephine, (2001). Organic Beauty, DK Publishing, London.

- www.abcnews.com, ABC News Internet Ventures, 2000.

- www.atsdr.cdc.gov, Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, April 2003.

- http://www.naturalcosmetics.ca

Lori Stryker has been researching and developing all natural skin care and make-up for the purpose of offering men and women safe, natural cosmetics for everyday use. She brings to her research a specialist in human biology from the University of Toronto, coupled with a professional home economics degree and an education degree from the University of British Columbia, fusing chemical and biological knowledge with food, family and textile sciences.

You may use this article but any modification or publication of this article for fiancial gain must be approved of by the author. The author's name, Lori Stryker and her company's name, The Organic Make-up Company, needs to by noted when used.

Dentists going for the “gold ring” of cosmetic dentistry practice might find the reach may exceed their grasp.

Just about any dental practitioner answers to the title, “Cosmetic Dentist.” But placing the C-word on a shingle may not automatically impress today’s patients. A barrage of media accounts of vanity healthcare adventures has created a new consumer in dental care that is also well informed via the Internet.

And now that a young, healthy smile is a “must-have” among patients of all ages, this savvy public can more easily detect the “wannabe” from the real thing. So, dentists aiming to attract patients with “smile makeovers” in their eyes better make sure they measure up:

Training, training, training.

Dentists operating at the top of the cosmetic heap continually attend seminars and workshops to remain at the forefront of research, materials and techniques.

“Dentistry has changed more in the last five years than in the last 20 years,” says Dr. Daniel Deutsch, at the Washington Center for Dentistry, in Washington, DC. “So, we can’t get away with just reading professional journals. It means regular hands-on training with top specialists in the field.”

Speaking with authority. A fine cosmetic dentist will speak with honesty, clarity and authority about options to improve a smile. They will be upfront and map out an organized plan of dental services, including phases of treatment, how much time it will take and how much it will cost. These dentists know better than to try to sell a “quick fix.” They have respect for the patient and the process.

Good Taste in Smile Design

A dentist needs refined taste and artistry when it comes to teeth, because patients are entrusting them with a critical esthetic responsibility—their smile.

“A smile change is a self-esteem matter,” says Dr. Marc Doctors, also of Washington, DC.

And a session to review a smile design outlines the direction the treatment will take. This is the moment patients expect an impressive display of knowledge about the well-engineered smile.

· The Sophisticate These teeth sport evenly aligned edges and usually mark a more mature smile.

· The Celebrity The prominent central front teeth are longer than their next-door neighbors and convey a “sexy” image of youth, warmth and vigor.

· The Sport This design falls between mature and sexy, with central front teeth still somewhat longer and prominent than the lateral neighbors, but it is softer, connoting health more than age or youth.

· Skin tone, lips, height and body type determine which features should go into a smile.

· Computer imaging or mockup materials and photos are used to give an idea of a result.

Experience!

There’s nothing like experience to help convince patients that they are in good hands in their quest for a new smile. Good cosmetic dentists doing a lot of successful cosmetic dentistry ooze experience when they talk.

“While every smile is different, every smile design covers similar territory,” says Washington Center for Dentistry’s Dr. Bernard Lynch,

Photos are everything

Fine cosmetic dentists will pull out books of photos showing before-and-after images of their own work. These photos easily provide the chance to see other patients with similar problems and their results.

Testimonials

And of course a dentist needs endorsements to demonstrate that others have been happy with their work. Many docs have books of letters from former patients.

With a lovely office to match

It’s the image thing here. A good cosmetic dentist provides a refined environment for patients. The psychology at work is that an immaculate, well-designed office enhances the image of the dentist’s taste in teeth.

Look the part

And the cosmetic docs also take seriously the importance of their own meticulous physical image. Immaculate grooming speaks volumes about the care doctors will take with their work. Today’s cosmetic dentists have their work cut out for them. The bar is set high. And with keen competition for patients, dentists should prepare to always aim high and reach for that “gold ring.”

For more information regarding cosmetic dentistry and cosmetic dentistry procedures in Washington DC, http://www.washdent.com or please click here.

Color contacts are great, whether you wear enhancement color lenses to brighten your natural color or opaques to change it completely. However, you will also need to apply some eye make-up to get the best effect from your lenses. There are a few eye make-up secrets that will make your new eyes really stand out.

The shadow colors you will need to use depend on your skin color and the color of your colored contact lenses.

For women with fair skin

For green color contacts neutral or pale shadow in green or blue-green varieties are best. If you get blue or turquoise contacts use blue shadow, but a shade lighter than the color of your contacts. For amethyst, violet or gray color contacts, lavender shadows work great.

Use gray or brown eyeliner rather than black - it looks more natural on fair skin. And smooth the line under your eye, so it doesn’t look too sharp. Also, if your color lenses are blue or turquoise, try blue mascara. It will give your eyes a really deep blue color.

For women with medium skin

With warm, medium-dark skin and green, blue or violet contacts, neutral shadows like taupe, browns or plums look best. For amethyst or turquoise color lenses, use dark lavender or plum eye shadow with a hint of silver across the eyelid.

Dark skin make-up suggestions

Amethyst, sapphire blue and green color lenses are magnificent on women with dark skin. If you apply bronze shadow in the crease, green eyes would look very deep. Mauve or deep brown shadows will do a good job emphasizing your blue or amethyst colored contact lenses. With aqua or turquoise lenses, try amber shadows across the top eyelid.

No matter what color contacts you wear, they will make your eyes bright and noticeable. Your eye make-up shouldn’t be too bright though; it shouldn’t overpower the new brilliance of your eye color.

Lipstick is also important in emphasizing your eye color. Neutral color lipsticks won’t do anything for your eyes. Most varieties of pink and bright, but light, red, on the other hand, would make your eyes stand out.

Eye make-up should be applied after your color contacts are already in place. Otherwise tiny particles of your mascara or eye shadow can get under your lenses and irritate your eyes. You should take your lenses off before you start removing make-up.

Use high quality mascara, so it doesn’t brush onto your lenses. Otherwise your eyes will feel very uncomfortable. Water-based mascaras are recommended. Also look carefully at the mascara label; some brands have a “safe for contact lens wearers” mark.

Tanya Turner is a contact lens expert and a founder of Contact Lenses Consumer Guide, which provides you with information about all types of contact lenses including color contact lenses reviews and photos

You go to the beach and you envy those beautiful bodies strutting the divine bronzed look for everyone to see. You want the look, but you can't afford an indoor tanning bed. So do the next best thing: Lease a tanning bed!! The much sought after tanned look is closer to you than you have ever imagined before. And the mantra that's making all this work is just to lease a tanning bed.

The starting point therefore is to answer the question: Why lease a tanning bed? And while there are innumerable answers to this question, we will try and visit the most popular reasons for people who opt to lease a tanning bed. At this point in time, we assume that having used commercial tanning beds, you found they are not a viable option for you either for reasons of costs or for reasons of convenience of use. And at this point in time, you simply do not want to invest a large sum of money, maybe 1000$ or more in an equipment purely designed to give you a beautiful look.

To lease a tanning bed, one needs to consciously allocate time and money to reap rich dividends. By this we mean, having leased a tanning bed, you are paying for every minute it sits in your room. And therefore be prepared to dedicate your time for this very purpose. Prepare yourself to start using a tanning bed. Have your tanning lotions, tanning bed pillows and tanning bed goggles ready with you before you go and lease a tanning bed. It of course helps to go through some tanning bed reviews before actually deciding on the make of tanning bed to lease.

We suggest that you make your local tanning bed salons the starting point of your search. Scouting the net to find sources to lease a tanning bed from is of course a great help in this effort. This new concept of time-sharing of tanning bed resources is all set to revolutionize our world in the endless pursuit of beauty.

So go ahead, lease a tanning bed and become a part of the tanning revolution !!

Visit our articles section at Tanning Articles and Resources for more such practical tanning advice and tips.

© 2005,Yaksha Patel. This article is courtesy of Tanning Wonders - Making Tanning work for you ! You may publish it at no cost, as long as the links are left intact, made live, and this notice stays in place.

When most people use the term Plastic Surgery, they more often than not use it in reference to cosmetic surgery. Few people actually stop to think that Plastic Surgery covers a far wider range of surgical procedures and that cosmetic surgery is only one type of surgery related to Plastic Surgery. The full scope of Plastic Surgery is quite wide if one stops to think about it and more often than not, is related to, and, plays a fundamental role in conjunction with other fields of medicine and surgical procedures pertaining to the field of general surgery. Plastic Surgery is basically concerned with the reconstruction of the surface of the body whether that has to do with the reconstruction of facial or body disfigurations that are either congenital in nature or, acquired due to accidents or illness for example, cancer related disfigurations.

Although Plastic Surgery goes as far back as Ancient Egypt the first physicians who actually placed a more scientific scope in the field of Plastic Surgery and, to be more precise, cosmetic surgery were two Sicilians Gustav and Antonio Branka . Father and son, in 1400, they outlined the basic guidelines which plastic surgeons should follow when undertaking reconstructive nose surgery. However, the first to ever create a center for Plastic Surgery and to take the first steps to making Plastic Surgery an equally accepted field of medicine was another Italian, Taliakosi.

However, it was not until after World War I that Plastic Surgery developed its full scope of use. This was due to the enormous amount of facial and body disfigurations which either resulted in Plastic Surgery being undertaken for aesthetic reasons, to regain functional abilities or, more often than not, for both.

From then on and up until today, Plastic Surgery continues to play an ever increasingly important role as a field of medicine in today’s’ society either on its own when referring to simple cosmetic surgery or as part of, and in relation to other fields of surgical specialties.

Charles Kassotis is the Owner and Webmaster of http://www.PlasticSurgeryOrg.com and Many Other Personal Health and Wellness Websites. With a Strong Interest in Personal And Overall Health, he has Invested 100’s of Hours in Research, and Published countless Health Articles aimed at Better Educating the Public to their Choices when it comes to Personal Health and Wellness.

Aging would not be so bad if it did not tell on us at every encounter. As we hug one another, we register the love handles on the other's waist, the flab on their arms and the sag on their cheeks. We stare into each other's faces. After all, only saints find no pleasure in the wrinkles of their peers. We are not inexcusable sinners; we are checking to see how well we are holding up. Estimating someone's age and deciding how well that person has aged tells us a lot. Looking and feeling younger than chronological age has increasingly becomes a yardstick of success. Preoccupation with age is a reality for our rapidly aging society. It is part of our resume and every bit as important as our employment records.

We may be justified in our dismay at aging, even scientists are puzzled by the purposelessness of the process. Every biological event in the human body, from conception to puberty to maturity, has a purpose except aging. Aging makes no sense. Scientists are baffled as to why mammals have much shorter life spans than more primitive species. We don’t live nearly as long as the Galapagos turtle but we usually wind up looking like one.

Nowadays, researchers hunt for the gene that causes aging. If they find it, they will look for a pill to disable it, as though it were a virus. They face an appalling task. A cell, the simplest form of life, is more complex than Mexico City, the largest city in the world. No one gene or any one hormone is responsible for health and youth. It is the ideal work of all the cells and organs functioning together in complete harmony to prevent the breakdown of the body. What makes us think we can think stop aging just by turning a switch in the body?

The signs of deterioration that we consider the signs of aging are the result of waste overload on the cellular level. When our actions are in opposition to nature, the results are different types of bodily ills, deformities, and ugliness. Eating denatured and devitalized food leaves residues the body cannot utilize, and they are deposited in places our Creator never intended. Whatever the body cannot use, becomes toxic accumulations that steal our health and our youth.

Body acids enter in chemical reactions with waste products causing calcification of the soft tissue. Now tissues of vital organs and glands become burdened with mineral salts and crystalline deposits. Overloaded with waste, they not only can no longer function normally but also become more responsive to gravity’s pull. As every tissue elongates and sags, drooping jowls and sagging cheeks begin to drape on both sides of the mouth, and the eyebrows begin to hang over the eyes.

External deformities are direct manifestations of internal pathologies. Ugly ropes of varicose veins, puffy faces, and cellulite are telling tales about your inside condition. Every pimple, psoriasis, or pigment change on your skin is in fact a reflection of some organ struggling to do its job. Every bulge, boil, or swelling is a sign that the body is pushing out some toxins in its effort to protect itself.

Most of us feel our appearance lacks something. In reality, ugliness is more about excess. Toxic accumulations in our bodies are responsible for stealing our health and attractiveness. Beauty lies latent under cushions of retained fluids, deposits of fat, and sick tissues. Your beauty is buried alive, but in most cases it can be revived in a version that will be satisfactory to you. You must take immediate action to revitalize it. When you do, your uncovered beauty will surprise and delight you

Some physical characteristics of our face and body we cannot change--they were determined prior to our birth. But the consumption of the raw plant diet as an adult will make a difference in the texture of skin and hair, the health of nails, weight and complexion. All of these traits and more are determined by daily choices, with food being one of the most important and, luckily, the one we can fully control.

Since there can be no natural health without eating 100 percent natural food, most of people have never explored optimum health. In my book Your Right to Be Beautiful, I advocate a diet made up solely of raw fruits, vegetables, nuts and seeds—Rawsome Diet. No, you will not be asked to graze the garden, dig up the squirrel’s nuts or dine out on the birdfeeder, but you will be introduced to an unexplored world of preparation techniques that allow you to create not only the most nutritious meals, but also dishes that are delicious, filling and satisfying. Some raw food recipes even mimic traditional cuisine and make the transition to the Rawsome diet easier. There are 100s of different kinds of fruits and veggies, nuts and seeds with a variety of tastes and flavors, which awakened taste buds will begin to appreciate. If you combine only two or three ingredients at each meal, then the number of dish combinations is endless.

The ability to renew cells is built into your body, and the body itself is capable of making you look more attractive. After all, we were designed to bloom continuously as old cells get replaced by new ones. The Rawsome diet makes the most of this rejuvenating ability of our bodies. Rawsome beauty is not manufactured from the outside but cultivated from the inside by nutritionally charged food. Whole raw food restores the integrity of every cell and facilitates the optimal operation of every organ inside and out. The body, having been awakened by the improved diet, in its wisdom, will reach out to the places where health was lacking, and you will gradually see your beauty surfacing. The Rawsome diet will eliminate all the toxins on a deeper level and bring amazing changes to your appearance.

Only the body sustained on raw food will host natural beauty, or should we say Rawsome beauty. The body becomes transcended and will unfold from the inside out. While your non-raw eating peers discover new blemishes, blotches, and moles on a nearly daily basis, you will see your own skin irregularities gradually fade or disappear. Feeding your body raw food will make eyes, once sunken in bulbous flesh, look larger and more round by eliminating the surrounding puffiness and by firming the eyelids. Eyebrows that were beginning to form an awning over the eyes will regain their youthful arch. As natural collagen production improves, it will fill in the places where it is needed as in hollow cheeks. It will not just patch your face, but every one of your 3,000 square inches of skin will improve.

The landscape of the body will change. The surface of the skin will become soft and smooth but still firm and supple. Visible pores will diminish. A sallow skin with a yellow pallor will turn into a porcelain-like complexion. The whites of eyes, once red, will become bright with a bluish tinge. Raw food eating will clarify and refine your features and bring delicacy to your face.

People who have been on the raw food lifestyle for several years begin to have a glow, the kind not often seen in middle-aged people. Optimal health is recognized by an emerging radiance. Glow is hard to fake because it is internal. It comes from an abundance of clear, pink, almost transparent cells that light up the face. Only superior blood circulation can bring this transfiguring glow. Several years on the raw food diet will make you look as though you just stepped out of a painting by Renoir--the impressionist best known for his preoccupation with light.

Colette, France’s greatest woman writer, once wrote: “The fear of aging, a commonplace neurosis, does not usually wait for age and spares neither sex.” But aging is full of mercy towards people on the raw food diet. This diet will allow you to ripen, not to decay. Beauty does not have to erode or disappear with age. You will be lithe and limber and keep your loveliness for a long time. It is like winning the Jack Pot in the Age Game. You become age-proof. When you discover The Most Beautiful You, old age will lose its sting, and you will have victory over the ravages of time.

Even on the 100 percent raw food diet, no one lives forever. For individuals who follow this diet for many years, aging comes a week or two before death. Deterioration takes place rapidly. Perennial youth is a perpetual dream. The raw food lifestyle is the closest anyone can come to reaching the maximum life span with the quality of life intact. The diet allows the body to mature gracefully. It produces an alliance of character and health. The Rawsome Diet allows everyone to live as long as God intended and look as God envisioned.

Excerpted from the book “Your Right to Be Beautiful: How to Halt the Train of Aging and Meet the Most Beautiful You” by Tonya Zavasta. The book is available at: http://www.beautifulonraw.com/html/righttobe.html

© 2004 Tonya Zavasta

This article may be freely reprinted in its entirety as long as the entire article, byline and URL are included.

About The Author

Tonya Zavasta is the author of the book “Your Right to Be Beautiful: How to Halt the Train of Aging and Meet the Most Beautiful You” and of the soon to be published its sequel “Beautiful on Raw”. In these books Tonya comes across as an ambassador for plain looking women in their quest for physical beauty. Tonya knows firsthand what it is to be humiliated, face adversity and meet the complex obstacles of daily living with a congenital disability. In her forties facing several reconstructive hip surgeries to enable her to walk, she sought a way to offset the devastating effects of anesthetics on her health and appearance. She became convinced that the solution to her quest for health and beauty was to be found in the raw food lifestyle or the Rawsome Diet as she calls it.

To learn more about how you can uncover your Rawsome beauty, visit: www.beautifulonraw.com

Tonyazavasta@hotmail.com

Elkhart-IN —People in the 35-50 age group comprise the largest percentage (40 percent) of individuals who had cosmetic procedures last year, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS). In all, more than 8.7 million procedures were performed on people who took action to proactively manage signs of aging or enhance their appearance.

“Society is certainly entranced with the idea of holding on to a youthful look as long as possible,” said Dr. Ronald Downs, of The Centre, P.C in Indiana. “ Many people say they feel better when they look better.” Liposuction was the most popular procedure in the 35-50 age group. Nose reshaping was the most popular among persons 19 to 34, who represent 26 percent of the 8.7 million, and eyelid surgery was number one among patients 51 to 64 (24 percent).

In all, cosmetic surgery procedures rose 32 percent from 2002 to 2003, according to the ASPS. The number of surgical procedures grew at 5 percent, while minimally invasive procedures jumped 41 percent. “With the incredible influence the entertainment industry has on public opinion, TV shows such as Extreme Makeover are no doubt significant contributors to this rise in procedures,” added Dr. Downs.

Botox® injections were the most common minimally invasive procedure, up 157 percent. “We believe that cosmetic injectables will continue to grow in popularity with the aging public,” said Dr. Patrick Viscardi, The Centre, P.C., “especially since the FDA in late 2003 approved Restylane®, an injectable dermal filler made from non-animal, stabilized hyaluronic acid.” Other injectables recently approved by the FDA include CosmoDerm® and CosmoPlast®, both of which, unlike Botox, do not require an allergy test ahead of time and, therefore, do not require a waiting period.

A concern by the ASPS is that with the increased popularity of injectables, people may turn to physicians who do not have the level of medical training needed to properly administer such treatments. Both Dr. Downs and Dr. Viscardi of Indiana are board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, the only board recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties to certify a surgeon in plastic surgery of the face and all areas of the body.

The Centre, P.C. in Indiana is a comprehensive plastic surgery practice that delivers expert professional care to patients in the Michiana, Indiana area. With specialists in the fields of hand surgery and therapy, reconstructive surgery, cosmetic surgery and skin health in Indiana, The Centre offers a unique variety of services and treatment options, including an Injury Prevention Program for businesses and their employees. Contact The Centre, P.C. at 574.296.9100 or visit thecentrepc.com or the American Society of Plastic Surgeons at plasticsurgery.org.

Imagine the Possibilities…™

If you are one of the thousands of men and women suffering from the skin discorder rosacea or acne rosacea, you may already be familiar with the standard dermatologist-prescribed courses of action and medications.

What many people don't know, is there are actually non-prescription, natural rosacea products that are just as effective, if not more effective, than prescription rosacea medications and topical rosacea gels and ointments.

First, let's look at the common ingredients in pharmaceutical rosacea medications. Two popular topical prescription drugs for rosacea are Metronidazole and Azelic Acid.

As an oral medication for rosacea, physicians may utilize a variety of medications, mostly antibiotic in nature, to help control rosace by controlling severe facial flushing and swelling. Sometimes in severe cases, even cardiovascular medications are used to help control the facial flushing.

Because of the higher risk of negative reactions associated with the long term use of oral antibiotics, topical therapy is usually the preferred long term treatment method. There is also the danger of antibiotic resistence becoming a problem for people who are treated long term with anitbiotics.

Topically applied rosacea medications, especially those of a natural origin, are becoming more and more popular, since there is no risk of them becoming ineffective over a period of time, as there may be with man-made topical rosacea solutions.

In addition to topical rosacea gels, creams, and sprays, a complete skincare regimen including face wash and moisturizer should also be employed as a preventive measure for rosacea.

People with rosacea have skin that requires intense and very specific care, every day, from cleanser to makeup. It is important that anything that comes into contact with the face does not have any skin-aggravating properties, but rather possesses skin-calming and anti-redness peoperties. There are natural rosacea skincare systems that will do just that, and before you know it, you will be "back in the clear".

Danna Schneider is the webmaster and founder of CosmeticsGalore.com, a cosmeceutical and nutraceutical review site focused on natural self improvement and cosmetic correction. More information on the natural rosacea treatment system mentioned in this article can be found at http://www.cosmeticsgalore.com/acne-rosacea-treatments.html

Have you ever considered how difficult it is to look natural? Quite difficult – isn’t it? Especially if there had been no makeup available to achieve it! Many-a-website points out how ordinary our glamorous celebrities look in real life without makeup on. No wonder then that they are always on the lookout for innovative makeup supplies. Such demands have seen a virtual makeover for the makeup business much to the delight of a demanding population yearning to look good.

The art and science of good makeup.

Makeup is still an art – supported ably, of course, by science. Gone are the days when good makeup meant just soaps, perfumes and oils carefully selected after word-of-mouth recommendation. Today, your persona comes through in MAC makeup – or was it Max Factor? Take your pick! Show off your gorgeous eyes - wear eye makeup. Impress your peers with a prom makeup worn specially for "the nite".

Make a statement with a tattoo or a strategic permanent makeup. Take expert advice – makeup tips are available for the asking. Desist from using chemicals which may harm your sensitive skin – wear mineral makeup instead! Consider this – you don’t have to wear stage makeup if you don’t need to flaunt your expressions under the arc lights to an audience.

Wear makeup – an appropriate one. Or better still; don’t wear any – especially if you are among the lucky few who can carry off that natural look – naturally!

About The Author

Mike Yeager

Publisher

http://www.a1-beauty-4u.com/

mjy610@hotmail.com

Cosmetic or aesthetic surgery is a very popular subject these days. Make a search on the internet for cosmetic or plastic surgery and you will get millions of results - web sites of plastic surgeons of different nationalities, various procedures available, advice for cheap plastic surgery, before and after photos, celebrity patients, clinics and surgery travel packages for various countries, news from around the world, and more.

There is an increasing number of individuals from all walks of life who undergo cosmetic surgery each year. How should someone considering plastic surgery select a plastic surgeon and make an informed decision? Patients considering cosmetic surgery should know that choosing the right surgeon is the single most important decision they will make. Today, many doctors perform cosmetic plastic surgery but not all of them have trained as plastic surgeons. Once doctors get their medical degrees, they may practice any specialty, even if they have not completed advanced training in that field. And so, a doctor who performs cosmetic plastic surgery is not necessarily trained as a plastic surgeon. He may have merely observed the procedure or taken a short course or workshop. To ensure the best results for the surgery you are considering, choose an authentic plastic surgeon with the specialized training and experience that is necessary for the success of your surgery.

As you visit the websites of plastic surgeons, they should provide you with basic information about plastic surgery and the various procedures available. You should be able to find information about the surgeon's formal training and experience. From the website, you should also be able to get an idea about the surgeon's basic approach and philosophy on cosmetic surgery and patient care.

Training

Select a surgeon who has completed at least five to six years of formal training in plastic and reconstructive surgery in accredited training hospitals. This includes three to five years of general surgery residency and two to three years of plastic surgery residency. In the Philippines, these doctors are either board-eligible or board-certified by the Philippine Board of Plastic Surgery. Doctors who have completed residency training in plastic and reconstructive surgery are the only doctors who can rightfully claim to be plastic surgeons. Many doctors who perform cosmetic surgery procedures are board-certified in specialties other than plastic surgery or may even lack such credentials.

Experience

Good credentials provide a reasonable indication of a doctor's qualification to perform cosmetic surgery, and should serve as the basic starting point. Patients should then ask the surgeon about his experience. How long has he been in practice and how many times has he done the procedure you are considering? The broader your surgeon's experience, the greater your chances for a successful surgery.

Hospital Privileges

Another factor to consider is whether the surgeon has hospital privileges. Before a hospital grants privileges to physicians, they usually require certain standards of training and competence to be met. Although many cosmetic surgery procedures may be safely done in outpatient clinics, others should only be done in a hospital setting. It is best to choose a surgeon who has hospital privileges.

Consultation

Find a plastic surgeon whom you feel comfortable with. You should be able to communicate easily with him, ask him all your questions and discuss your needs and expectations. Make sure you have all the facts you need in order to make an informed judgement.

A good plastic surgeon should be able to evaluate whether you are a good candidate for the surgery you are considering. He should be able to educate you about your options and give you advice about the best technique for your needs. If there are less invasive or non-surgical procedures that could fulfill your needs, the surgeon should be able to tell you about them.

Realize that pre- and post-operative photos of the surgeon’s patients can be useful in helping you understand the surgery but are no guarantee that your results will be similar. Every individual is different.

Beware of any doctor who tells you there are no possible risks involved in surgery. There are always risks, and these should be discussed frankly.

Never allow a doctor to talk you into any procedure you don’t want. A reputable plastic surgeon will let the patient suggest what he or she wants done and then advise them on what is or is not possible.

Be skeptical of any doctor who seems to avoid talking about his or her training and professional qualifications.

Price

Although price is definitely a factor when considering elective surgery, don’t "bargain shop" for plastic surgery. Any surgery is still surgery and has some uncertainty and risk involved. When price is the primary factor for choosing a plastic surgeon, risks increase. The success of your surgery is largely dependent on your choice of surgeon and professional qualifications and experience should be your main consideration in selecting your plastic surgeon. Even when you go to popular clinics where a number of surgeons practice as a group, take a look at the qualifications of the particular surgeon who will be handling your case.

Good plastic surgeons may charge relatively affordable fees, especially if they practice in Asian countries like the Philippines, where cost of living expenses are low and if they can keep overhead costs low by having modest outpatient surgery clinics. But think twice if the surgeon you're considering charges much lower than other plastic surgeons in the same country. Especially if the procedure to be done is in the face, like a rhinoplasty (nose surgery), blepharoplasty (eye surgery) or rhytidectomy (face lift), you could end up having to stare at your "cheap" doctor's mistakes in the mirror every day. No wonder there are also so many searches made for "awful plastic surgery".

Dr. Carlos Lasa Jr. is a Filipino plastic & reconstructive surgeon who trained at the University of the Philippines, Institute of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, Georgia, USA, & Mt. Sinai Medical Center, Ohio,USA. He is currently based in Metro Manila, Philippines. He specializes in cosmetic plastic surgery procedures such as liposuction, rhinoplasty (noselift), breast augmentation, blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery), rhytidectomy (facelift), and more. For more information about having affordable cosmetic plastic surgery in the Philippines, visit his site at http://www.cosmeticsurgeryphil.com or email clasamd@cosmeticsurgeryphil.com

In all of its transformations and variations, the short hair style has always been numbered at the top of the list when it comes to versatility, style and manageability. No other style catches the eye quite like the short hair style and no other style makes the wearer look as professional, chic and sexy as the short hair style

Short hair styles worn by women are a fairly new style trend when compared with women's hair styles in general. In fact, cropped styles only came to the forefront of fashion a little more than 50 years ago. Since that time, the short hair style has given women the freedom to express themselves in numerous ways. From the funky and spiked to the soft and feminine, the short hair style can be worn by any woman of any personality, style and age.

Short hair no matter what the age

It has long been a held belief that an older woman should wear a short hair style to make her appear younger. While there is some truth in the belief that long hair tends to make wrinkles and flaws more noticeable, short hair styles and long hair styles can both be worn by women of all ages if they choose the right style to compliment their particular face shape and bone structure.

A good rule of thumb to follow when it comes to choosing a short hair style to suit your age is to pay more attention to your overall appearance rather than focus too much on how old you are. For example: Trendy, spiked styles can emphasize flaws and sagging skin, but I have seen women in their 70s with exceptional bone structure wear these short hair styles and look amazing. On the other hand, I have also seen younger women try to wear these same short hair styles and not be able to quite carry it off. So, if you want to wear a short hair style, pay close attention to your face shape, build and style of dress before deciding how to cut your hair.

Short hair to flatter your face

I've heard it said many times by many people, "I always wanted to wear a short hair style, but I don't look right with short hair" Ladies, this is nonsense. Granted, not every woman can wear every short hair style, but every woman can wear a short hair style that is tailor-made to compliment their face shape and beautiful features.

There are five basic face shapes: oval, heart, round, square and triangular. All of these shapes can be beautiful, but one is ideal: oval. No matter what shaped face you have, achieving the perfect look involves picking the right cut or short hair style that will make your face appear more oval.

To do this, you and your stylists can try different variations of popular short hair styles to compliment your individual features. For example: If you have a round face shape, you can still wear your favorite short hair style as long as you bring some hair forward on your cheekbones and wear a little height in the bang to give your face the illusion that it is oval.

The bottom line is that the short hair style is not for just a few who have been blessed with perfectly proportioned features. With the right short hair style, you too can sport trendy sexy cropped locks that will be guaranteed to turn a few heads.

Michael Barrows' website gives great advice for good hair. Get your free ebook packed with hair style and hair care tips and advice, visit http://www.great-hairstyles.com

The last step in your makeup regime is lipstick application. Some women say if they could have only one beauty item it would be lipstick. Lip color brings the whole look together to create harmony. To keep your lips looking perfect, have lip color with you at all times and reapply when needed.

When you select a lip color take in consideration your clothing and blush colors. The color of your clothing and blush should complement your lipstick but doesn’t have to be perfectly matched. However, the colors should be in the same intensity and range. Wear cool colors together and warm colors together. Pink lipsticks go with blue and pink colors and corals and russets go with clothing that falls in a yellow/orange range.

Steps to apply lip color:

1. Prepare your lips by applying foundation over them (this will extend the wear).

2. Outline and define the shape using a lip pencil that has soft, pointed top. Start at the V in your upper lip drawing down to the corners. Then, starting at the middle of the bottom lip draw a line to the corners. To help lipstick stay on longer, use your pencil to cover the lips entirely.

3. Fill in upper lip with lipstick or you can use a lip brush.

4. Fill in the lower lip and then blot with a tissue and reapply.

5. Dab gloss in the centre of your lower lip to create a fuller more glamorous look.

When defining the lips with a lip pencil be sure the pencil and lipstick colors are very close. The lip liner should not be noticeable. Lip liners are meant to keep your lipstick in place, keep lipstick from bleeding, define the shape and help them look more natural. Do not try to change the shape of your lips by going outside the natural line.

* Dark lipsticks will make small lips appear smaller.

Sheila Dicks is an image and wardrobe consultant who teaches women how to dress to suit their body type and look slimmer. You can visit her at http://www.sheilasfashionsense.com to download her "Image Makeover" ebook and get "How to Build a Wardrobe" free.

You can find many styles of sunglasses in stores today. These styles include everything from fashionably chic to practical and functional to groovy and retro. While looking stylish is one reason to wear sunglasses, there are many other benefits as well.

1. To keep the sun out of your eyes. The lenses should be large enough to actually protect your eyes from the sun.

2. To cut down on glare. Polarized sunglasses help to cut down on glare and make things much clearer.

3. To help prevent cataracts. A pair of sunglasses with a high UV protection factor are recommended.

4. To keep other people from recognizing you. Hollywood stars use sunglasses in this way quite often.

5. To hide the fact that you’ve been crying. The darker the lenses of your sunglasses, the better for this purpose.

6. To spice up an outfit. Sunglasses come in many colors and styles so that you can accessorize nicely with any ensemble.

7. To keep the wind out of your eyes. This is especially helpful while riding a motorcycle.

8. To protect your eyes while playing sports. Be sure to have sunglasses with impact-resistant lenses.

9. To accentuate your looks. Your facial shape can drive which shape of sunglasses look best on you.

10. To look cool! Enough said!

Copyright © 2005 Susan Daniel and Debbie Overstreet

About Susan and Debbie: Susan and Debbie are internet marketers. You can review more articles on sunglasses and also find the perfect pair of sunglasses for your needs by visiting http://www.spunkysunglasses.com

Everyone dreams of having skin that is healthy, smooth and radiant. This state of skin perfection would have to derive from proper and attentive care. Your skin could convey its wishes, its needs for nutrition and concern. Listen to its voice, pamper it with timely care, and your skin will maintain its very best condition always. Balance: The First Criterion for Perfect Skin

At the crux of the latest global beauty concepts, lies the need for skin balance, which is the first criterion for perfect skin. Here, “balance” refers to the natural physiological functions of the skin, such as regulation of moisture, oil secretion, sensitive reactions and organisational structures. Only when these four areas are regulated and balanced, can the skin present its very best. Conversely, if there is an imbalance in the four factors, the skin will develop problems accordingly.

Warning Signal 1:
Dryness, lack of moisture, slight peeling, dry wrinkles

Skin’s Revelation:
Functional imbalance in regulation of moisture

The Best Solution:
Emergency replenishment of moisture

Suggested Method:
Give skin the ample moisturising nutrition it needs. Choose special moisturising skincare products that contain natural minerals, effective moisture-replenishing factors, natural compound vitamins, collagen, etc.

Warning Signal 2:
Insufficient or excessive oil, whiteheads, blackheads, acne　

Skin’s Revelation:
Functional imbalance in oil secretion

The Best Solution:
Balance oil secretion

Suggested Method:
Choose skincare products that have oil-absorption, inflammation-reduction and germ-elimination properties. For skin that secretes excessive oil, take care of cleanliness and inflammation reduction.

Warning Signal 3:
Sagging, signs of aging such as wrinkles

Skin’s Revelation:
Functional imbalance in organisational structure

The Best Solution:
Emergency replenishment of nutrients

Suggested Method:
Focus on the replenishment of effective anti-wrinkle and skin-firming ingredients, such as amino acids, various vitamins, protein essences, etc, so as to enhance skin metabolism and restore its natural vitality within the shortest time.

Warning Signal 4:
Weakness, itch, red spots　

Skin’s Revelation:
Functional imbalance in sensitive reactions

The Best Strategy:
Emergency desensitisation

Suggested Method:
Conduct a self-diagnosis first. If the condition is mild, nurse it using Bel’Air’s prescription. If the condition is severe, involving burns or abnormal swelling, consult a doctor or specialist.

Listen to Your Skin

These are some of the warning signals that will be sounded when a problem in skin balance occurs. Usually, the prologue will take the form of itch. When your skin gives the signal for help, it is time to give it the nutrition and moisture it needs. In this way, you can effectively maintain your skin at a state of healthy and optimum balance. So, when your skin sounds the warning signal for imbalance, don’t ever neglect it. Putting the balance back into your skin will ensure its radiance and beauty!

Nur Syahid, a Natural Aromatherapist, specializes in Bio-Tech Aromatherapy including oxygen therapy, ozone therapy, health aromatherapy. Comments, Share and more info E-mail to : Healthybelair@yahoo.com

Face it ladies; the reason you want to look nice is to attract the opposite sex. And let's also face the fact that most men do not even notice half the things you spend your hard-earned cash on in the name of looking good for them. Whether you're a swinging single, have a boyfriend, or even a couple of boyfriends, you can still turn heads without blowing your entire paycheck on self-maintenance. Here are ten tips.

1. Grow your hair long. Forget the stacked and sprayed look, girls. Men want long, luxuriant locks that they can run their fingers through and maybe even give a gentle tug on once in a while to pay homage to their inner caveman. Save your money on expensive haircuts. Instead, have a friend trim those tresses at home (or do it yourself). Split ends are never in style no matter what look you're sporting.

2. Cut your hair short. I know; I just told you to grow it and now I'm saying cut it. If you're one of those pixie-face girls with milky skin and great shoulders who can leave the house wearing no makeup and still look hot... chop it all off! You're naturally feminine and can get away with it. Keep the hair goop to a minimum. Again: the idea here is soft and natural.

3. Put on a skirt. If you're married or have been dating the same guy for a while, you know the Skirt Reaction. It usually involves appreciative murmurs, spontaneous affection, and umm... well, I don't need to explain further, do I? Your skirt doesn't have to be Neiman Marcus. A denim mini that you paid 14 bucks for can look just as nice as whatever the models are sporting in your copy of Vogue, if you dress it up in just the right way.

4. Exfoliate. Ditch the foundation, ladies. Your boyfriend doesn't apply beige paint to his face every time he leaves the house and neither should you. Face makeup looks unnatural, and I'll bet your man would say it tastes kinda funny, too. Instead, pick up a tube of exfoliant for less than four bucks (it will last you at least five months). Scrub with it every four days or so, and you'll be bright, rosy and cheeky as a schoolgirl. If you're concerned about oil, buy a translucent powder compact at the Rite Aid and apply as necessary.

5. Paint your toenails and fingernails yourself. Do you actually pay other people to do your nails? Shame, shame. Manicures and pedicures rank high on the list of things Men Couldn't Care Less About. Professional French Manicure, Pink Piggies Done at Home or even Naked Nails... it makes no difference to him. Save your money and have a finger-and-toe-painting party with a girlfriend or two. Also, forget the Lee Press-On look. Teradactyl talons are terribly tacky. Go with short-to-medium length, natural and "non-scary" nails.

6. Neaten up those eyebrows. No "miracle lipstick" in the world is going to make a difference if your eyebrows look like two caterpillars curled up and died on your forehead! Eyebrow artillery: sharp trimming scissors, a good pair of tweezers. Step 1: brush eyebrow hair upward. Step 2: Trim straight across. Step 3: pluck stray hairs and define arches - and please don't overdo it! Think Jennifer Aniston, not Bette Davis.

7. Avoid the Lumpy Look. The lumpy look occurs when your clothes are too tight. If the jeans are too small, find a top with tummy coverage. If you're spilling over the bra cups, camoflauge with a thicker fabric shirt or sweater. The Lumpy Look is a semi-emergency situation that demands action. Either hit the stores for a bigger size, or get on Weight Watchers ASAP because girl, you're in trouble.

8. Eyes or Lips - not both. The key to being tastefully attractive is downplaying one feature while up-playing another. If you decide to go with smoky baby blues, then opt for bare or clear lips that day. To show off your perfect pucker, select a nice flattering shade of lipcolor. Paint inside the lines (this is important - no man likes the Rodeo Clown look) and leave the eye makeup to a bare minimum. This same theory applies to your clothing. Legs on display? Cover up the belly. Cleavage peeking out? Hide that junk in the trunk.

9. Forget the tanning bed. Yes, fake tanners, we are all talking about how silly you look behind your back. Keep up the year-round tanning, and in five years you'll resemble a Ball Park hot dog that's been on the grill for far too long. Tan in a bottle is no better, especially with those telltale brown creases behind your knees. Do your skin a favor and keep tanning to the summer months.

10. Feel good about yourself, and smile! By far the best way to be attractive is to actually FEEL attractive. If you're smiling and in a great mood, you'll be naturally sexy no matter what you're wearing. Put on your favorite tunes, go hang out with your best pals, get some fresh air and do the things you enjoy most in life. Real beauty comes from within, and has a lot more to do with the gleam in your eye and the spring in your step than an expensive haircut or anti-aging cream. So, let it all hang out, be yourself and be happy about it. After all, you're one of a kind... and that's pretty attractive!

Dina Giolitto is a copywriting consultant and ghostwriter with 10 years of experience writing corporate print materials and web content. Trust her with your next e-book, article series or web project, and make a lasting impression on your audience of information-hungry prospects. Visit http://www.wordfeeder.com for more information.

How do you take care of your body’s biggest organ ? Let’s think about this question for a moment. We eat low fat foods for our heart; lower sodium intake for out blood pressure; dental check up twice a year; eye exams and physicals yearly. We do all of these things to make sure we live long healthy lives. But the biggest organ, our skin, is often neglected, dehydrated, sun damaged and suffocated by the products we put on our skin.

The first ingredient listed in skin care products is the largest percent of what that product is made of. What is the first ingredient in your skin care products? Mineral oil, petrolatum or lanolin oils are commonly used in skin care products. These ingredients are considered “skin suicide” because over a period of time they can actually dehydrated the skin. They also speed up the aging process because it causes toxic to build up in the skin. Think about that? You would not want to accelerate the aging process. We age enough with stress.

What about the “drying” alcohols and the harsh chemicals? SD alcohol 40 is a drying alcohol that cause the “lipids” of the skin to flatten out, causing the skin to lose its contour (similar to a balloon losing air.) A lot of products use fragrances or artificial FD&C dyes that causes allergic reactions to the products.

Alcohols such as Isopropl Alcohol, SD Alcohol 40 and Ethyl Alcohol dissolves the body’s own natural moisturizers and strips the skin of it’s own protection, leaving it vulnerable to infection. They destroy the skin’s pH balance and since they absorb water, speed up wrinkling of the skin.

Waxes such as beeswax, carnauba wax, candela wax or paraffin waxes are fillers which can clog the pores creating blackheads, and whiteheads. They smother the skin which over a period of time can create enlarged pores.

Petrolatum sometimes known as “paraffin jelly” or “petroleum jelly” is not absorbed by the skin and suffocates the pores. All petrochemicals pollute our water and destroy marine life. Avoiding them is essential for the health of humans, animals, fish, water, land and air.

Did you know that some skin care products use “acetone” in their products? Tell me, WHY would you use a product on your skin that takes off fingernail polish? Acetone is used most often used in astringents, fresheners or clarifying lotions. It is extremely toxic and will dehydrate the skin, speeding up the aging process. Ever feel that burning sensation?

Borax (Sodium Borate and Boric Acid) used in baby powders, bath powders, eye creams, skin fresheners, protective creams and moth washes as a preservative. It is rapidly absorbed by the kin. Borax is still widely used despite repeated warnings from the American Medical Association.

D & C colors are usually synthetic, coal tar colors. They’re toxic and should be avoided when at all possible.

I find it very interesting to see that many products today claim to be “natural. When reading the ingredient list on labels you will find that there are more chemicals in the product than vitamins, herbs or botanicals. Most of the natural ingredients are usually at the end of the ingredient list which often means that the amount contained in the product is minimal and therefore having ineffective results.

When purchasing your skin products do your research. You don’t want to speed the aging process or prevent the aging process for as long as possible?

Betty Lynch, author of “It’s All About You” is a Professional Skin Care consultant with over nine years of direct sales experience. She leads a large successful team with L’Bri Pure n’ Natural Skin Care, which is an Aloe Vera based skin care company. Visit her web site at http://www.bettyl.lbrionline.com If you have any questions or if you would like to receive a 5-piece mini skin care set, feel free to email Betty at cmclynch@prodigy.net

Great skin is something that nearly everyone can cultivate. Our skin is affected by our:

. Genes
. Inner nutrition - what we eat and drink
. Exercise
. General health and well-being
. Emotional health, and
. Outer nutrition - how we take care of our skin

While we can't alter our genes, we can improve our skin by making the necessary adjustments in the areas we can influence. Read on to discover the basic components of a healthy outer nutritional plan for your skin.

If you seriously want great skin the very first thing to do and wear a hat and good quality sunscreen when out in the sunshine. Having said that, let's move on to understand the next three basic foundations to great skin.

If you want your skin to look and feel great, careful cleansing is very important. This should be done first thing in the morning and last thing at night to remove pore-clogging dirt. Don't cleanse enough and you could find yourself prone to spots. Cleanse to often and you could be stripping away essential oils and be susceptible to dry skin or even eczema. Understanding your skin type (normal, dry or oily) and using a cleanser to match is the best foundation for great looking skin. Remember to rinse your face with warm water after using a cleanser, as any residue will continue to work on the skin if not completely removed.

Our grandmother's used soap and water…isn't that good enough? Soap is not very good at removing makeup because it does not contain enough oils to dissolve the staying power that most cosmetics have today. Remember the 'tight' feeling after your have washed your fact with soap? Soap can be very drying on your skin and may wash away essential oils. Another reason not to use soap is that it is not matched to the natural balance of our skin. Soap is generally alkaline, whilst skin is naturally acidic.

The second step to great outer nutrition for your skin is to tone. Toners are designed to remove any last traces of cleanser, while also helping to tighten and refine pores and prevent the build-up of dead skin cells. After toning your skin should fee and look revitalised and refreshed, and ready to be moisturised. Again you will need to apply a toner that matches your skin type.

The third foundation step is to apply moisturiser to help restore the moisture loss caused by the drying effects of sunlight, central heating, wind, cold and pollution. A good daytime moisturiser would contain a sunscreen and will be easily absorbed into the skin. At night you should use a richer, more nourishing cream, as this is when your skin more readily absorbs moisture.

Despite the plethora of products on the market and the myriad of additives…. the most important ingredient of any moisturiser is water! If water is just splashed on the skin it will not say there. Moisturisers are basically oil and water emulsions which contain a humectant (a substance added to another to make it moist), which attracts water and helps 'fix' it in the upper layers of the skin.

Moisture that is lost firm the skin needs to be replaced quickly so that the surface of the skin is kept both soft and smooth. The living cells in the layers need water so that they will not shrivel up and die. A moisturiser can protect the skin by providing a varier between the skin and the external environment. It also prevents the loss of moisture from the deeper layers of the skin.

Should people who have oily skin use a moisturiser? Moisturisers are particularly recommended for people with dry skin but everyone can benefit from using a moisturiser. You simply need to ensure that you choose the correct moisturiser for your skin type. People with oily skin should choose a moisturiser that hydrates their skin whilst helping absorb any excess oil.

(c) Copyright Kim Beardsmore

Kim Beardsmore enjoys the flexibility of working from home. Are you interested in earning money from home? We're looking for individuals who have basic phone and internet skills to join our team of work-at-home-ers. If you're serious about earning money from home and are willing to work (this isn't 'get rich quick'), then we'd like to help you grow a profitable business. We offer complete training, online and offline resources and a partnership for success. http://free2liv.com/?refid=EA-567883386

Sunquest tanning bulbs are a good choice for tanning beds. When you buy Sunquest tanning bulbs you can be assured of a high quality product.

Sunquest tanning bulbs are made by a group of people who are dedicated to their jobs. Sunquest tanning bulbs have been manufactured since 1998.

You can find Sunquest tanning bulbs in many sizes including 44, 48 or 60 inch full-length tubes or 188 tubes (44 full-length tubes and 144 x 15 watt booster tubes). These Sunquest tanning bulbs are fitted with 160, 180 or 200 watt high power tubes. Because of the longer length of the Sunquest tanning bulbs even the tallest tanner will be satisfied.

Sunquest tanning bulbs are various prices. You can find prices for Sunquest tanning bulbs online.

There are certain models that use the Sunquest tanning bulbs in a way that gives the tanner an optimal tan while also keeping the tanner cool and comfortable.

Sunquest tanning bulbs are made to last. These bulbs are made with the latest tanning technology in mind. Sunquest tanning bulbs are made to live up to maximum bulb life expectancy.

When it is time to replace the tanning bulbs you will be happy with Sunquest tanning bulbs. Sunquest tanning bulbs are available at unbeatable prices and in different sizes.

The age and type of bulbs will determine tanning efficiency. When you use Sunquest tanning equipment equipped with Sunquest tanning bulbs you will be able to attain optimal tanning.

Obtain information about Sunquest tanning equipment and Sunquest tanning bulbs and you will be very tempted to give this fine company a try.

Timothy Gorman is a successful Webmaster and publisher of Tanning-Bed-Solutions.com. He provides more tanning bed information on tanning bed bulbs, tanning bed lotions and home tanning bed information that you can research in your pajamas on his website.

Los Angeles is the city as infamous as it is famous, as notorious a city as you can find. It is a city that is known the whole world over, even by millions who have never visited it, and it is surrounded by an intriguing mysticism that few can resist. This is where the famous people live, the young, the rich and the beautiful, a city that houses people so gorgeous that the plastic surgeons must be the best in the world! Many people travel here from all over the world to have their surgery performed here by the very best. But if the city and its surgeons are that good, surely the prices must be as high-flying too?

Because it seems that Los Angeles people have to be beautiful people too, you can be sure that Los Angeles plastic surgeons will be plentiful and highly skilled. The disproportionate demand for cosmetic surgery in this city compared with other parts of the country means that the competition within the industry here is huge - so professionals have to be top-notch in order to survive. Making an appointment with a Los Angeles plastic surgeon almost guarantees that you will be meeting a professional who is well qualified and experienced, with knowledge of all the latest innovations at his or her disposal. The success of the industry in this part of the world pushes it on to bigger and better things, so if you are looking to avail of all the most up-to-date techniques, then this is the city to visit.

The popularity of plastic surgery here means that surgeons can charge what they like - but the very multitude of professionals means also that they must remain competitive in their price structure. There are a number of great deals to be had. The city's booming industry also means that sometimes hacks can flourish, offering half price operations at half the standard of the true professionals. Always check out the credentials of your surgeon before you submit to their knife - in a city filled with the best in the world, you don't want to be one of the unlucky ones who falls prey to the unscrupulous. Even the cheapest deal in the world is not worth that.

Finding the best deals in town will take some homework - use the Internet, local press, or even ask around to find the best deals offered by the best surgeons. You might have to pay a little more to avail of the services of a Los Angeles plastic surgeon, but the gorgeous results will make you glad you spent the money.

Steve Brink is the founder of Costmetic Chin Surgery, a website providing information on cosmetic surgery.

How many times has your mother told you, you are what you eat? As you probably know, Mom knows best. So it’s no surprise that what we feed our bodies does affect what the final product is. For healthier, younger skin it’s no different. But what should we eat in order to have the radiant skin we all covet? Here is a list of simple things we can all incorporate into our diet to help fend off wrinkles.

Fish Meat. Salmon especially. Fish meat is stock full of protein. Consuming more good protein like fish meat will give cells the fuel they need to repair themselves.

Dark-green, leafy vegetables. Another thing you’ve most likely heard from Mom: eat your vegetables. Again, she’s right. Foods such as romaine lettuce or kale will help prevent your skin from ageing. Rich in iron and vitamin A, these vegetable will assist in healing damaged skin.

Nuts. Nuts are a valuable source of iron and zinc, and are an easy add on to most desserts and dishes. Almonds are replete with zinc which also will boost skin restoration.

Berries. The most fun food for last. Berries (blueberries, raspberries, strawberries – yummy!) have hundreds of different recipes for dessert time. A healthy-skin diet doesn’t have to be a boring one. Berries are rich in strong antioxidants which will aid skin defense.

Just remember these easy things the next time you’re strolling through the grocery aisles. Eating these foods will arm your skin cells with the necessary tools to help preserve and keep your skin looking young.

Daniel Vang is publisher of

Hair salons require many different types of equipment to ensure the business is run efficiently. Because many different items are required, it is not necessary that each piece of salon equipment be new. It is possible to find good quality, used hair salon equipment that will serve the purpose of new equipment.

Basic hair salon equipment consists of styling chairs, shampoo chairs, washbasins, hair dryers, mirrors, and trolley carts. These pieces of equipment are available in a large variety of styles. Many salons opt to purchase basic, inexpensive, equipment that is simply functional. Other salons choose to purchase equipment that works toward creating a certain feel or ambiance in their salon. There are many retailers that specialize solely in “high end” designer hair salon equipment. For an additional cost, these pieces can be customized to match a salon’s décor and color scheme.

Many salons are expanding the services they offer clients by adding in day spa services. Day spa services may include manicures, pedicures, tanning, facials, waxing, and massages. When these types of services are offered there is specific hair salon equipment that must be added to the salon’s equipment inventory. Many of the items are pieces of equipment that are quite costly. For example, a new pedicure station can cost a few thousand dollars, prompting some salon owners to purchase used hair salon equipment to save money. For this reason, used hair salon equipment is a rapidly expanding business.

When salons expand the services they offer they often choose to sell hair care, skin, and body products. To appropriately display the items they must purchase display racks. The type of display racks they choose will depend on the size of the inventory that will be displayed and how much square footage they have to dedicate to the display. Hair salon equipment retailers typically offer a large selection of display tables, racks, and shelving for sale.

There are a growing number of retailers that specialize in selling used hair salon equipment. Many of these retailers are easily found online through search engines. Much of the used equipment that is offered is in very good condition and is a good investment for a salon owner. Used hair salon equipment is a wise choice, particularly for a new salon owner who is just starting out.

Salon Equipment Info provides detailed information about beauty, hair, nail, tanning salon equipment, as well as wholesale and discount salon equipment. Salon Equipment Info is the sister site of Hair Extensions Web.

Botox (botulinum toxin) is an extremely popular cosmetic procedure because it is a non-surgical way to reduce or eliminate frown lines, forehead creases, crows feet, neck bands and other wrinkles. It has fast results, is non-invasive and does not leave scars, but it also can wear off and should be re-injected, although the FDA recommends Botox not be re-injected more frequently than every three months. Also, Botox has recently been shown to prevent frequent migraines, sweating and muscle spasms.

Botox is taken from the toxin that causes food poisoning. This sterilized, injectable form of the toxin does on a small scale what the unsterilized toxin did on large scale: it paralyzes muscles just under the skin preventing them from contracting. The skin lying on top of these paralyzed muscles then smoothes out and usually within a week the wrinkles that were there are gone.

For the best safety, a patient should neither sleep nor consume alcohol for several hours prior to treatment and the injections should be done by a qualified, board certified doctor under sterile conditions with sterile equipment as well as with precautionary equipment on hand just in case there is an emergency.

A rising trend in cosmetic procedures is Botox Parties. However many doctors have concerns about safety in social settings. If something goes wrong, it is better to be in a medical facility. People who cater to Botox parties may not be the best doctors. Then there is the concern about Botox abuse.

People choose to have Botox injections in parties for several reasons. First, they can get discounts for doing things in increasing volume. Second, it can be nerve-wrecking to have Botox injections for the first time and if a patient is surrounded by friends in a light and easy setting, it can alleviate some of the stress. Furthermore, it takes away the stigma of having cosmetic procedures done.

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Commercial tanning beds come in two basic formats. Horizontal tanning beds are the tanning beds you most often see in both residential and commercial settings. These capsule or clamshell tanning beds consist of a lid lined with tubular ultraviolet lamps, and a glass or plastic “bench” contoured for optimal relaxation. Simply lie down, close the lid, and allow the UV light to penetrate your skin. Turn your body over one time halfway through your session for even tanning.

Vertical tanning beds are also known as tanning booths or stand-ups. The interior is lined with ultraviolet light bulbs in a 360 pattern. Just step inside and close the door. Since your body is exposed to UV light on all sides, there is no need to turn your body over halfway through your session; therefore a tanning booth tans twice as fast as a clamshell tanning bed.

High-pressure tanning beds blast you with more tanning rays (UVA) and fewer burning rays (UVB). The lamps are made of quartz, which allows their internal air pressure to be higher than conventional ultraviolet lamps, thus filtering out more unwanted UVB rays. High-pressure tanning beds sport a sleek, “open cage” construction with no doors. They are suited to intermediate and dark skin tones. Most commercial tanning beds include high-pressure lamps at least in the face area.

All UV lamps are marked with a UVB percentage. For example, a lamp marked 5%UVB emits five percent UVB rays and ninety-five percent UVA rays. This is a particularly low UVB percentage, which means that tans produced by its radiation will be brown and not burned. This is a good thing.

Most UV lamps have a lifetime between 500 and 1000 hours. However, you should replace the lamps at half depletion, since the quality of their light weakens over time.

The FDA requires that all commercial tanning beds include a timer that automatically turns the lamps off at the set time.

The newest technological advance in commercial tanning beds is cooling systems, which keep you even more comfortable during tanning.

Tanning Beds Info provides detailed information about home, commercial, and wholesale tanning beds for sale, as well as tanning bed lotion and other products and accessories. Tanning Beds Info is the sister site of Sunless Tanning Web.

LED Photo Rejuvenation,Intense Pulsed Light or Infra-Red Light and it’s Affects on Skin Rejuvenation

In order for your skin to continue to exist, it has to constantly reproduce new cells to take the place of the ones that are being shed.

People need certain wavelengths of light similar to the way plants need sunlight to thrive. Your skin has the ability to absorb light and use it as a source of energy to stimulate cellular regeneration.

LED Photo Rejuvenation or Intense Pulsed Light (P.R./IPL) is infra-red light which stimulates the cell activity; this increases Collagen and Elastin production. (The proteins responsible for strength and elasticity of the skin).

Photo Rejuvenation translates the process of plant photosynthesis into the workings of human skin cells, stimulating the body's own cells to build new proteins the same way plants use chlorophyll to convert sunlight into cellular building blocks.

Photo Rejuvenation flows light through your skin's epidermis to fibroblast cells, which produce such structural proteins as collagen and elastin. When the light hits the cytochromes inside the fibroblasts' mitochondria, it stimulates the cell's energy transport system. The cell produces more structural proteins, which in turn gives it the appearance of improved tone and elasticity.

Photo Rejuvenation sends light rays into the cells, which in turn excite the Mitochondria into producing up to 10 times more ATP. This fuels the cell's activities, which causes more of the needed Collagen and Elastin to be produced, as well as other needed materials for the skin.

ATP - Nature's Energy Store

All living things, plants and animals, require a continual supply of energy in order to function. The energy is used for all the processes which keep the organism alive. Some of these processes occur continually, such as the metabolism of foods, the synthesis of large, biologically important molecules, e.g. proteins and DNA, and the transport of molecules and ions throughout the organism. Other processes occur only at certain times, such as muscle contraction and other cellular movements. Animals obtain their energy by oxidation of foods, plants do so by trapping the sunlight using chlorophyll. However, before the energy can be used, it is first transformed into a form which the organism can handle easily. This special carrier of energy is the molecule adenosine triphosphate, or ATP. (Nobel Prize winner Paul May – Bristol University).

The light rays that are emitted from infra-red light also come from the Sun. They are a natural light. The only problem with getting these light rays from the Sun alone is that you also get harmful Sun rays that can damage your skin more than do it good.

Using infra-red light you only get good helpful rays of light that help your skin produce the Collagen and Elastin it needs to continue to appear healthy, smooth and radiant. The more Collagen and Elastin you have in your skin the smoother, healthier and radiant it will look and feel.

Infra-red light also stimulates cells into producing other substances needed for repair. Dr. Harry T. Whelan says, "The light is absorbed by mitochondria where it stimulates energy metabolism in muscle and bone, as well as skin and subcutaneous tissue."

The Medical Collage of Wisconsin says, "Our laboratory has improved the healing of wounds in laboratory animals by using NASA LED light and hyperbaric oxygen. Furthermore, DNA synthesis in fibroblasts and muscle cells has been quintupled using NASA LED light alone..."

How Was This Discovered?

P.R./IPL was discovered accidentally by NASA about 40 years ago. Astronauts who became injured while in space would not heal until they were back here on Earth. Scientists didn’t know the reason until plants were placed aboard space craft with the intent to grow food during long distance space travel. These scientists determined that the red LED lights that were used to encourage the plants to grow were in fact healing the astronauts’ wounds! Now the astronauts who became injured while in space were healing before they got back to earth, due to the P.R/IPL. They concluded that the red spectrum of light is the healing spectrum and the ultra violet light spectrum are the damaging rays.

Here is what a few experts are saying about Photo-Rejuvenation All aspects of wrinkling, skin coarseness, pore size, irregular pigmentation showed visible improvement with Photo Rejuvenation. ---Dermatology Times

Photo Rejuvenation treatments...the results are the closest thing to a face lift that I’ve been able to achieve since becoming an esthetician. ---Day Spa Magazine

The treatment is especially effective at improving the appearance of the face, neck and chest, by reducing signs of aging, wrinkles and age spots. ---Web M.D. Health

A process called Photo Rejuvenation can smooth away wrinkles, erase age spots and relieve the symptoms of Rosacea. ---ABC‘s Good Morning America

With all this cell energy stimulation happening from the infra-red lght rays being massaged into your skin, what do you think would happen if you super-charged your skin with the exact nutrients it needs to build or re-build itself?

Answer: Better, superior anti-aging results!

***

This article was obtained off http://www.lightstim.com. Nancy LaTouche is a new distributor of LightStim International, and wanted to pass along this fascinating information.

Full explanation of this technology can be found at this website: http://www.lightstim.com

Looking younger has become an increasing obsession. Many Baby Boomers, in particular, seek to continue and extend their active lifestyles and preserve their youthful looks. As always, the quest for the fountain of youth is attainable, in part, through today’s evolving fashions offerings. Among the most exciting of recent fashion trends is the resurgence of the hat as the ultimate accessory. The right hat can visually subtract years from the age of the wearer and reflect a sense of youthful style. More importantly, hats can serve a functional purpose that no other fashion accessory can match – certain styles and brands can help preserve smooth, unlined skin, free from the unsightly and unhealthy effects of sun damage.

The need for sun-protective headwear is well-established. It is estimated that 90% of all “aging” of the skin – wrinkles, discoloration, and sagging – is attributable to sunlight, rather than to the passage of time. Women are flocking to cosmetic surgeons in droves to counteract the unpleasant side-effects of their sun-drenched childhoods and teenage years spent baking in the sun with baby oil. Women spend billions of dollars each year on the creams they hope will repair and allay the visible damage to their skin, which they associate so closely with their own beauty. Skin cancer has reached epidemic proportions and is now more prevalent than all other types of cancer combined. The Mayo Clinic Medical Essay reports that almost half of all Americans who reach age 65 will develop skin cancer of one form or another. After removal of cancerous skin cells, reconstructive plastic surgery is often necessary.

Although publicity about the harmful effect of sun exposure has increased awareness of the need to protect skin, most women have a false sense of security arising from two myths. First, many women believe that sunscreen alone is effective at staving off skin damage. Nothing could be further from the truth. Although sunscreens are an essential part of sun protection, they are not effective alone. Sunscreens rub off and sweat off. They are not applied uniformly and are not permanent. A sunscreen is only effective after it binds to the skin cells, which can take up to 20 minutes – more than enough time for sun damage to begin. Even when sunblocks and sunscreens are active, the protection lasts only from 20 to 80 minutes, which is not nearly long enough for the healthy and active lifestyles women lead today. Finally, sunscreen blocks only some, not all, of the sun’s damaging UV rays. By itself, sunscreen does not provide effective sun protection.

The second myth that lulls many women into a false sense of security about sun damage is the belief that any hat will do the job. That straw beach hat you’ve been using for your trips to the beach must provide good sun protection, right? Wrong. All hats are not created equal in the battle against sun damage. Most ordinary hats are made of straw, cotton or other common fabrics through which the sun’s rays are able to penetrate with ease. Hats made from these fabrics typically provide only SPF 2 protection. In other words, they allow up to 50% of harmful UVB (“burning”) rays and an even higher percentage of UVA (“aging”) rays to penetrate the fabric and damage the skin. If the fabric is damp or wet, as is often the case after workouts or near the water, as much as 80% of the harmful UVB radiation may penetrate. For this reason, even hats that are marketed as “sun protective” may be woefully inadequate. Many hats are labeled “sun protective” merely because they have a 4”-wide brim that covers more of your face. A wide brim, however, is ineffective if the sun’s damaging rays can blast right through it.

But don’t despair. Thanks to technological breakthroughs spearheaded by the National Aeronautics & Space Administration (NASA) and certain textile producers, ultraviolet protective factor (UPF) fabrics have been developed that can turn an otherwise ordinary hat into a safe haven from the sun’s damaging rays, preserving the skin and preventing the visible signs of aging.

UPF-fabric-lined sun protective brands protect the head and face from sun damage in several ways that regular hats do not. First, protective hats are lined in high-performance sun protective fabric, to ensure that UVA and UVB rays cannot penetrate the hat and damaging the underlying skin. Second, the hats are designed for maximum facial and head coverage so that less skin is exposed to direct sunlight. This is achieved through such features as downward-sloping, extended brims and detachable, protective face shields.

Finally, savvy designers and manufacturers realize that women will not wear unattractive accessories no matter what the health benefit, so they are designing hats that appeal to the wide-ranging fashion needs and youthful tastes of today’s health-conscious women. You don’t have to choose between the hat you like and the hat that will protect you. Thanks to the wide offering of hats from today’s UPF hat manufacturers, you can obtain effective sun protection in the hat style of your choice. The hat will look great on you today, and your skin will look great for years to come.

Kathleen Burke designed her first sun protective hat in an effort to integrate health and well-being with a sense of fashion. She needed such a product to better shield her own fair skin from the damage of ultraviolet light when she was enjoying outdoor activities. Burke built SunStuff, an award-winning company that has worked with a diverse clientele – from cosmetic surgeons and dermatologists interested in healthy clients, to spas, golfers, gardeners, athletes, seniors, infants, and members of the cosmetics industry who are interested in her newest trend.

Choosing the perfect colored contact lens can be a daunting task. But the good news is that it doesn’t have to be. With improved colors and a wider variety of tints to choose from, you will have the most spectacular eyes in the house in no time at all.

In order to pick the perfect colored contact, you must first have an idea of the look you are going for. Do you want to enhance your natural color, give a subtle change to your color or are you looking to completely change your eye color altogether?

If enhancing your natural eye color is what you are looking for, then you will want to purchase a colored contact that has an enhancement tint. By using a tint that is slightly darker than your natural color, enhancement lenses intensify the eye color making the eye more vibrant. Enhancement contacts are generally used for people with lighter-colored eyes.

Maybe you want just a subtle change in color. If so, choose a colored contact that is close to your natural color. For instance, if you’re eyes are blue, a gray tint will give you the type of color that has people whispering and wondering what is it that’s different about you today.

If you want to completely change your color, pick a contact lens that is a dramatic change from your natural color. This change doesn’t necessarily have to be something that is picked by chance. Find a contact lens color that is a contrast from your skin tone, hair, or makeup.

Most importantly, pick a colored contact that makes you feel comfortable and attractive. There are so many possibilities that if you get tired of a certain color one day, you can realistically have a completely different color the next day without breaking the bank. Whether it’s to enhance, give a subtle change, or to complete a new look, purchase your new colored contacts today!

Mike Schwartz is the owner of the popular web site Best Contact Lenses Online His site provides useful tips, resources, and reviews to help you make the best decision when purchasing contact lenses on the Internet.

How many times in your life do you think you will go to a salon to get your hair cut or styled? Let's see, if you start when you're about 2 years old and go 6 times a year until you're about 70 years old, that turns out to be over 400 visits. Even more impressive is the amount of money (over $12,000 USD for average $30 visits) you will end up spending in your lifetime to cut, style and care for your hair. This doesn't even include special hair care products or additional services such as coloring, perms, treatments, etc.

With these statistics, it is safe to say that our hair is an important part of our lives. Finding the right hair stylist and salon is crucial to the end results of any hair style or process. Emiliano Vitale, Creative Director for E Salon in Wahroonga Australia, says, "All clients look to us for direction. It is up to us to listen carefully, understand our clients needs and desires and then to translate this into a style which is specifically designed and tailored to their lifestyle and personal needs." We have invited Emiliano to visit with us and answer a few questions about salons, hairdressers and hair styles. Below are his insightful answers:

Question: Men and women spend thousands of dollars every year going to salons and caring for their hair. Yet most people report that they are less than satisfied with the results. When you read some of the salon reviews out there you will find people that like the look of their cut/color/perm but are very unhappy with the service. Some describe salons with arrogant, rude or inconsiderate hairdressers and staff. Why is E Salon different in this respect? How do you address complaints from clients ?

Emiliano: First of all, hairdressers are a reflection of their leader. You don't have rude or arrogant team members--you have rude and arrogant owners. Hairdressers globally, actually Humanity globally wakes up every morning and wants to give their best. Then they get to work and are rude only because they are not appreciated or lack self worth. It is the duty of every leader to dedicate themselves to their team and to inspire their team to cooperate in a spirit of harmony.

The only reason we are successful is because I dedicate myself to my team. I made a promise a long time ago that when one of my team members leave, they will leave a better human being and a better hairdresser. It is easy to blame our team members for making mistakes and for not being good enough. But I can assure that if we ALL, including OWNERS, realized that the person looking back at us in the mirror was responsible for the state of our life, then this industry, let alone this world, would be a greater place.

I train my people to see themselves as truly great human beings, and by doing this they will see greatness in everyone else. I promise to give them an extraordinary life and that is what my purpose is. My team members are the most pleasant and remarkable people I know.

At E Salon we treat the Human Being, not the hair. We encourage and welcome any feedback. Complaints are an opportunity to show the world what kind of human being you are. Many hairdressers take a complaint like a personal attack on them. As a leader it is our responsibility to train our people properly and nurture them and their spirit.

I am sorry; there are no rude and arrogant hairdressers---just incapable leaders. Always see the human being and give your best in evey moment in every situation. What you give is what you get---it is that simple.

Question: When you first meet with a client that wants a new hair style, what is your mode of operation?

Emiliano: The first thing I do is ask many questions, such as 'Why do you want to change your look? What don't you like about your hair?' I try to find out as much history as possible, including anything he/she has every been unhappy and happy with. Next I like to feel the hair to determine its thickness and texture. Then I look for any unusually growth patterns. Finally, and most important, I look at face shape, bone structure and the clients overall style. I focus in on suitability and I try to enhance the strengths they may have, i.e. eyes, lips cheekbones, etc. Sample photos of hair styles the clients like are also very helpful in letting me know what my clients like.

Question: As a salon owner, how important is it to keep abreast of current hair and fashion trends?

Emiliano: It is imperative that we stay abreast of what is happening in the world of hairdressing. Though it is more important to know who you are in relation to fashion. In today's world every fashion designer and hairdresser is doing his or her own thing. We must find what we identify with in terms of fashion, and with that initial inspiration, make that evolve into something that is uniquely ours.

It is so important to be a leader not a follower and to be true to yourself. In the state of truth you will be able to tap into a universal source of what is fashion anyway. That is a purely surreal experience when you come up with an original idea, and realize that others have had the same idea, very cool.

Question: A lot of hairdressers aim to please and give their clients the hair cut that they want. For example---a client brings in a photo of a hair style he/she really likes and wants to get the same look. Do you ever tell a client that ---NO that hair style or color will not work for you?

Emiliano: Absolutely! If I feel a hair style doesn't suit a client, I will not hesitate to let him/her know how I feel. That is why my clients pay me $110 a cut. Having said that, I must also contradict myself by saying, hair is about the person wearing it, not the hairdresser.

By knowing who you are and believing in yourself, you attract clients who like what you do. Hence you will very rarely have client in your chair that doesn't like what you do.

Question: What salon products do you use and how importat are they to creating workable hair styles?

Emiliano: We use L'Oreal styling products. My favorites are; Gloss Wax, Liss Control and Pure Gloss Spray in the Techni.art range, Smoothing Serum in the Texturline range by Artic (L'Oreal) and Kiwi Blow serum in the Kiwi range.

Without products, I don't believe we would really be able to produce the results we are looking for.

Question: It's one thing to come out of the salon looking fabulous. It's quite another creating the look on your own at home. Do you offer styling advice and training for your clients?

Emiliano: I offer the correct advice on which products to use and how to use them to achieve results.

Question: What can we expect for hair style trends for the Fall 2004? What will be the popular colors, lengths, styles?

Emiliano: From me, you can expect short crowns with longer lengths, creating seamless layers and transition from short to long. I am still working with asymmetry and disconnected lengths. Fringes are still very hot. I love anything Rock Chic looking. I try to make my models and clients look like Rock stars.

Colors are more a technique thing rather than actual colors, though I am working a lot with mahogany and nut browns. Highlights are bolder yet they are peeping through the hair, not on the top of the hair. I have been working with this technique for a couple of years, just varying the placement of color. At this very moment we are working with major contrast in color.

Question: Where do hair style trends start anyway?

Emiliano: I believe hair trends do not start, they evolve. They are definitely started by the hairdresser rather than the client. For example, let's look at the past season. Hair trends have a very sixties and eighties influence. Now that definitely didn't start recently, though it evolved from that period and was adapted to today.

I will try to start my own trends. At the moment I am working with my GARAGE Collection in the salon and my L'Oreal tour. The collection features extremely short crowns, varying lengths, with asymmetry and disconnection. Trends are inspired by something. They can be inspired by a movie, a song, a painting---with inspiration anything goes. You must trust your instincts. Fashion is what you LOVE. LOVE IS FASHION

Question: On a global scale, do you see a trend of how new hair style fashions evolve?

Emiliano: Personally the entertainment industry inspires me. I feel Hollywood has a major influence on setting trends. European hairdressers, especially the English are great translators of this. To take the mantle as trend setter, you definitely need to earn it.

I know many hairdressers look to fashion and the designer's new collections for inspiration. You know that anything goes, and it is usually started by some kid on a street corner who has cut their own hair, and it has caught the eye of some top stylist, designer or even director.

Fashion is what you make it and who you are in context to that fashion.

Question: What are some of the current hair concerns that your clients are experiencing and what sort of treatments do you offer?

Emiliano: In Australia, hair is very good at the moment as we are in winter. If anything, the hair is a little dehydrated. We offer the complete range of Power Dose treatments from L'Oreal. They are quick and easy treatments and make such an immediate change in the hair. My favorite here is the Shine Blonde treatment that is a toner as well as a treatment. Results are awesome!

Question: Do you have hard and fast hair care advice that applies to everyone?

Emiliano: Use very little conditioner. Apply it first to mid-lengths and the ends, then comb it through the rest of the hair. When applying mousse, apply it slowly and with a comb, little by little. Always finish with a gloss spray for shine.

Question: There is a study that says one in two women color their hair. A lot of women do it themselves. What type of color products do you use and why would you recomment that women go to E Salon for color processing?

Emiliano: We exclusively use L'Oreal Professional products. We recommend that clients come to us for color because we are trained professionals. COLOR TO HAIR ACTS LIKE PAINT TO A SKETCH, IT GIVES IT LIFE! The reason I feel that one in two women color their hair at home is our own fault. We need to spend more money on training our people and take responsibility ourselves. We tend to blame the companies for making and selling hair color products in the supermarkets. If we were doing our jobs correctly, the companies wouldn't need to sell in pharmacies and supermarkets.

Question: Finally, what are your recommendations for someone seeking a new hairdresser or salon?

Emiliano: Go in for a blow dry and take notice of all the work going on around you. Look for someone who puts love into his or her work. The are a rare breed and when you find them, cherish them. You will notice they stroke the hair, like you would pat a cat. They put their heart and soul into their work and they look at what they are doing and the way the hair falls. The best hairdressers will ask about you, not talk about themselves. Always pick the stylist in a salon with the worst haircut. The best hairdressers cut everyone elses' hair.

I tend to get a lot of clients by people asking my clients on the street who cuts their hair. Don't be afraid to ask lots of questions and bring in pictures. When you find a happy and content team of hairdressers, you are sure your money is going to someone who is making a difference in the lives of their clients.

Thank you Emiliano for your thoughts and insights on hair styles and salons!

Emiliano: Final words: Be brilliant and accept yourself for the glorious human being you are, for the SIMPLE reason that you ARE. GOD BLESS ! Emiliano

E Salon, E for Effort, Enthusiasm and Excellence in Hair

Emiliano Vitale operates E Salon along with his father, Samuel Vitale - Managing Director, and his cousin Valerio Domenici - Salon Director. E Salon first opened in Double Bay in 1994. The second E Salon opened in Wahroonga in 2000 the Double Bay closed in 2001 as it merged with Wahroonga so that Emiliano could focus more on education, shows, seminars and travel - July 2001 to Dec 2001 Emiliano traveled through Europe, UK, USA looking at latest fashions to bring back to E Salon. Now Emiliano travels every year to keep up to date with what is happening around the world.

Emiliano's father, Samuel has been a great source of inspiration for his career as a hairdresser. Samuel successfully ran his own salon, Samuel's Hairdressing, in Hornsby for 28 years before joining forces with his son and nephew at E Salon at Wahroonga. He has been contracted by L'Oreal to educate in seminars on haircutting, success, goal setting and the importance of DREAMING, BELIEVING and ACHIEVING. He adds, "My main objectives for my seminars are to inspire hairdressers to GIVE more and to help them discover the tools that will make them truly successful." Emiliano is the Style and Shoot 2004 Ambassador and National Judge. Style and shoot has 1000 entrants from across Australia. He will select 20 State finalists, then 1 ultimate winner.

E Salon was voted in top 10 salons by Sydney's Highroller magazine and has received significant press coverage in international and national magazines. For additional information about Emiliano or E Salon, see their website located at: http://www.esalon.com.au.

Perriann Rodriguez is the founder of http:// http://www.hairresources.com an international online resource for hair styles and beauty salons and http://www.hairresources.net, an online resource for human and synthetic hair extensions. She has published over 100 articles in various trade publications and is listed in the Who's Who of Executives and Professionals and the US Register of American Writers. For additional information, see http://www.hairresources.com; http://www.hairresources.net

If you’ve been to a craft show or a farmers’ market recently you’ve probably noticed that more and more people are making and selling homemade soaps, toiletries and cosmetics. Gone are the days when the neighborhood soap maker was a grandmotherly lady in a long cotton dress—today’s soap makers are young, hip stay-at-home moms hawking homemade lotions, makeup and bath products. But are the products they’re selling any better than store brands? More importantly, are they safe? Consider these facts before you make your next purchase:

*Commercial toiletries are manufactured in clean, modern labs which are subject to FDA inspection at any time. Homemade cosmetics, on the other hand, are often made in home kitchens where food is prepared, cleaning chores are performed and meals are consumed. Because they’re so small these home-based companies often slip right under the FDA’s radar and are never inspected at all.

*Commercial companies are required to follow a set of FDA guidelines known as the FDA’s Good Manufacturing Practices. These practices include having dedicated work spaces, employee dress codes and specific safety procedures. Homemade cosmetics are often made in the presence of pets, children and others not wearing proper attire like hair nets or gloves. No home-based business can meet the FDA’s GMPs for cosmetics manufacturing.

*Commercial companies hire skin care experts and doctorate-level chemists to formulate their products. Homemade toiletries are made by people with education varying from college degrees all the way down to high-school drop-outs.

*Commercial manufacturers spend millions on product liability insurance. Based on my experience in the handmade toiletries business I would estimate that only 25 percent of home-based toiletry makers have even basic product liability coverage.

*Commercial products go through an extensive process called “challenge testing” to determine their safety. I’ve never met a single home-based toiletry maker who challenged tested her products for mold, bacteria or yeast.

Before you buy that scrub with the wonderful mango scent, spend a couple of moments getting to know the person on the other side of the booth. There are some wonderful micro-manufacturers out there. You just have to know the right questions to ask.

Lisa Barger is a traditionally trained naturopath who puts her knowledge of herbal products to work in one of the oldest and most respected personal care companies on the internet. Learn more about Lisa at her website http://www.LisaBarger.com and learn why she believes in “Empowerment through Education”.

Everyone has a favourite myth about hair care – and we usually never let the truth get in the way of a good legend! This article examines some of the most widely known - and the reality behind the myths.

1. Excessive washing of hair causes hair loss/dryness.

FALSE: Frequency of washing doesn’t harm hair. Wash it as often as you like, although the recommendation is three times a week. The right shampoo for your hair type and texture will actually add moisture, body and beauty to your hair.

2. More shampoo = cleaner hair.

FALSE: Don’t waste your shampoo! A dollop of shampoo, about the size of a quarter is usually enough for long hair. Very long hair may take a little more.

3. Conditioner helps repair split ends.

FALSE: No conditioner can "repair" damaged hair. What it can do is smooth down the cuticle and make hair seem in better condition. A good conditioner can also prevent damage from occurring in the first place.

4. Blow-drying produces hair loss.

FALSE: Blow-drying can damage, burn or dry hair, which can cause it to fall, but the hair will grow back immediately. This is not permanent hair loss.

5. Sleeping with wet hair causes scalp fungus.

FALSE: Scalp or fungal diseases can’t be caught from sleeping with wet scalps. Scalp infections require prior involvement with infected sources such as humans, tainted hair care tools or animals. Scalp fungus (tinea capitis) mainly affects children, whose immune systems make them more susceptible to skin infections.

6. To get your hair to grow, brush 100 strokes each day.

FALSE: Brushing that much can damage the hair cuticle. NOT recommended! Actually, your hair reacts better to a comb than a brush. Brushing it will only lead to split ends and hair breakage.

7. Sharing combs and brushes can spread scalp diseases.

TRUE: Lice and other parasites can be transported from scalp to scalp through the sharing of combs, brushes and other hair care tools.

8. Cutting hair makes it grow faster and/or thicker.

FALSE: This common misconception comes from the fact that hair is thicker at the base than it is at the tip, so shorter hair appears thicker at first. Cutting your hair does not affect its normal biologically determined growth rate or overall texture. Thin, limp or fine hair will not ever grow thicker in response to a haircut. Plump up your hair by using volume enhancing hair care products, experimenting with a hair fattening blunt cut or getting a texturizing perm or color treatment.

9. Color treatment causes hair loss.

FALSE: Most hair coloring products contain chemicals that can do serious harm to the hair itself if not properly used, but it wont instigate hair loss.

10. Salon products are identical to drugstore products.

FALSE: Although there are exceptions, salon products generally contain higher quality, more expensive ingredients that are designed to consistently provide more intensive cleansing, moisturizing and conditioning results. The quality ingredients found in salon products are not usually found in drugstore brands. If in doubt – read the labels.

11. Long sun exposure favors hair loss.

FALSE: Your hair acts as a shield against the sun. Hair loss appears at the follicle level and so the sun would have to penetrate at this depth to do any damage.

12. Diet is related to hair loss.

TRUE: it's important to eat right in order to be generally healthy. However, no individual food has been proven to be beneficial or detrimental to hair.

13. Stress causes hair loss.

TRUE: Severe stress (e.g. surgery or a death in the family), can shut down hair production, causing temporary hairloss (alopecia areata). The scalp usually recuperates, though, and hair grows back

14. Wearing tight braids, ponytails or buns causes baldness.

TRUE: Traction alopecia is a very real hair loss condition that is quite common amongst older African American women. It results from wearing tight ponytails, cornrows or buns over an extended period of time. Over time, hair breakage or loss as the result of tight, stressed styles, can become permanent. Avoid this potential problem by opting for looser styles that minimize scalp tension.

15. Smoking causes gray hair.

TRUE: According to J. G. Mosley of the Leigh Infirmary in Lancashire, England in an article in Science News (January 11, 1997) smokers are four times more likely to have gray hair than non-smokers. Even worse, smoking has been conclusively linked to accelerated hair loss.

SUMMARY

Heard another myth about hair? Do your research – ask an expert! This doesn’t include your grandmother, best friend or local barmaid. Instead, talk to an experienced hairdresser or a trichologist. Always get the real facts before you act on any hair myths – you owe it to your hair.

(With thanks to Daniel Mcullough and Karen M. Shelton)

Michael Barrows is a web publisher specialing in niche marketing. Pick up his FREE ebook "(Nearly) Everything You Should Know ABout Hairstyles and Hair Care" at his website; http://www.great-hairstyles.com

You look great, work out every day and have a fit body.
Beyond that, you crave for that golden bronze look,
the look that would send the opposite sex into a tizzy.

Well, in that case let me welcome you to the amazing world of tanning bed products. Read on to know more about tanning beds, usage, accessories viz. tanning bed lotions, tanning bed lamps and a few tanning bed tips.

Tanning beds are devices that simulate the sun's UV rays that give your body the coveted bronze look. The vertical model the indoor tanning bed is preferred over its cousin, the horizontal model as in the vertical model, the tanning is uniform without any physical contact on any surface during the course of the tan and hence no pressure points for tanning. Widely regarded as the surer and faster way to looking great, tanning beds have been a great hit across the world although there have been several tanning bed reviews that broached the topic of harmful effects of tanning beds.

To get the best out of your indoor tanning bed, it's recommended to use specific indoor tanning oils that are available in the market than outdoor oils. Since the entire effect of the UV rays are on the skin, moisturizers are a must before one begins to use the tanning bed. Also the time spent inside the tanning bed depends on the stage of the tanning routine, the skin type and the number of tanning bed lamps that are being used.

An investment with rich dividends, indoor tanning beds have become commonplace, what with discount tanning beds and installment schemes paving the way for affordability. However, before acquiring a tanning bed, it is important to understand what you are paying for and the subsequent costs of owning this equipment. Apart from the initial set-up cost, tanning bed lotions, pillows, and lamps could all pinch your pocket a little more than you expect and hence it is advisable to do a cost-benefit analysis before making a purchase decision. As a long term decision, it is purely a matter of balancing the emotional need to look great with the financial need to curtail spends.

Discover the wonders of the tanning bed and get the dream look you have always wanted!!

Visit our articles section at Tanning Articles and Resources for more such practical tanning advice and tips.

© 2005,Yaksha Patel. This article is courtesy of Tanning Wonders - Making Tanning work for you !

You may publish it at no cost, as long as the links are left intact, made live, and this notice stays in place.

A patient of mine called me a few weeks ago complaining that her eyes were hurting. I told her to come by the office and I would check her out. After looking at her eyes, I noticed some redness and slight corneal swelling. This concerned me because she was a fairly new patient who had just recently begun wearing contact lens within the past three months.

After administering some tests and gathering some information, it was determined that the source of her eye irritation was stemming from storing her contact lenses improperly and not cleaning her contact lens case. The sad part about this situation is that it happens all too often when it could very easily be avoided.

Caring for your contact lens and the contact lens case correctly is critical to maintaining the ongoing health of your eyes. By improperly cleaning your contact lens case, you are allowing harmful bacteria to build up on your contact lens. Given time, this buildup will begin to irritate your eyes. If left uncorrected, this can seriously damage your visual health.

To avoid this, simply cleanse your contact lens case according to the instruction given by the manufacturer. This will usually include rinsing the case out at regular intervals with a specified cleansing solution or using very hot tap water and then letting the case air dry.

Remember to only use commercial cleansing solutions recommended by your eye care practitioner. Homemade remedies fail to properly destroy the bacteria that are found in contact lenses (and accessories). One of the most destructive known eye infections comes from an ameba named Acanthamoeba. It enters the eye through failure to properly cleanse, handle, and store contact lenses and cases.

In addition to proper cleansing/disinfecting the contact lens case, most eye care practitioners recommend discarding your case every month or every three to four months. Although this may seem like a lot, most designer contact lens cases can be purchased for less than $10 with very basic screw-top cases being available for under $2.

It is important to remember that cleaning the contact lens case is just as important as cleansing the contact lens itself. It only takes a minute to properly cleanse and store your contact lens and case properly. Use only the recommended cleaning solution for your contact lens case and discard your case at appropriate intervals. By doing this, you can eliminate the risk of infection, and ensure the utmost health of your eyes.

Mike Schwartz is the owner of the popular web site Best Contact Lenses Online. His site provides useful tips, resources, and reviews to help you make the best decision when purchasing contact lenses on the Internet.

We are in the age of cosmetology, plastic surgery, implants and a constant barrage from TV and magazines that want to sell us beauty and weight loss products. It is an enormously profitable industry that keeps us spellbound for the next new thing that will take away our wrinkles or firm our skin or help us lose weight.

Unfortunately society all over the world from the deepest, most remote areas of the planet to modern society will judge you by how you look. It is true! We all do it, some more than others. When you are walking through a mall or standing in line somewhere you are assessing people around you. When we are looking for a job we dress to impress. When we go out for an evening we dress to impress. Women usually pay more attention to detail then men.

But there is more to beauty then cosmetics and clothes. If you are very healthy looking then you are more likely to give a good impression. If you are a good listener, helpful or witty and cheerful, people are more likely to want to be around you. Cosmetics and clothing can definitely help but I suggest starting from the inside out.

1) Get plenty of sleep. This is a must. You cannot function properly when you are tired and it will show on your face. If you have a problem with getting enough sleep then you need to investigate the cause and handle it accordingly.

2) Drink plenty of water. Most people are semi dehydrated and don’t get enough water daily.

3) Eat healthy food. Give up the junk and sugar foods. Your metabolism will be working better if you eat regular healthy meals.

4) You may want to consider taking supplements to get the vitamins and minerals your body needs.

5) Exercise. Our bodies need to move. We have become somewhat of a couch potato society. Have you noticed that when you are lazy you are less likely to want to get up and do anything? Exercising 30 minutes three times a week should help you lose weight and keep healthy.

6) Manicures and pedicures and keeping your body clean will keep you healthy and will be appreciated by others.

7) Keep up with the times on fashion. You don’t want the outdated look.

8) Dress for your age. At 12 you don’t need to look 20, or if your 50, you don’t need to look 18. Be well dressed for your age.

9) If you need help with hair and makeup, find an expert to help you with that.

10) And finally, smile. No one really cares to be near Mr. or Mrs. Grumpy.

Some people naturally do all or most of these things, but if you aren’t one of them then look at what would motivate you to do this. Do you have a spouse you want to look good for? Are you single and want to attract someone? Do you have children or grandchildren you want to be healthier and be a good role model for?

There is an awesome motivational poster that inspired me to write about this subject. Get healthy, and be happy.

Willie Jones

Willie is a freelance writer, researcher, floral designer, and artist. Thanks very much for reading this far. “Make sure you enroll in the free motivational poster drawing at http://www.artinspires.com/. All winners receive a free framed print.”