Sun Burn...

Source: tanningvirginiabeach.com

Hi all! Some of my friends came back from overseas recently and suffered from sun burn, too much time on the beach while I'm back here in Singapore studying for my exams... Hahaha... Okay, I'm kidding... But on a different note, if you were to get burnt by the sun's rays what can you do at home to help relief the pain and heal?

Source: Winkyface.com

Here are some simple methods that I found while surfing the net:

Source: flex4fitness.files.wordpress.com

Bathe in baking soda. Adding a few heaping tablespoons of baking soda to cool bath water makes a sunburn-soothing remedy. Just keep your soaking time down to 15 to 20 minutes. If you soak any longer, you risk drying out your already lizard-like skin. When you've emerged from the bath, resist the urge to towel off. Instead air-dry, and don't wipe the baking soda off.

Source: wau14.com

Pat down with potatoes. The plain old potato makes for a wonderful pain reliever. It's a time-tested technique known throughout the world. Take two washed potatoes, cut them into small chunks, and place them in a blender or food processor. Blend or process until the potatoes are in liquid form. Add water if they look dry. Pat the burned areas with the pulverized potatoes. Wait until the potatoes dry, then take a cool shower. Another less messy method is to apply the mash to a clean gauze and place on the burn. Change the dressing every hour. Continue applying several times a day for a few days until the pain is relieved.

Source: sciencedaily.com

Sip chamomile tea. Brew dried chamomile in a tea and sponge onto affected areas. Make the tea by combining 1 teaspoon dried chamomile with 1 cup boiling water, or use a prepackaged chamomile tea bag. Cool and apply. Do not use chamomile if you have pollen allergies, or you may suffer a skin reaction atop the burn.

Source: fromnaturewithlove.com
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Ease chafing with cornstarch. Sunburns often strike where skin meets bathing suit. Sensitive and hard-to-reach spots you've neglected to smear with suntan lotion (along bikini lines, underneath buttock cheeks, or around the breasts and armpits) often fall victim. These burn spots then have to face daily irritation from tight elastic in bras and underwear. To ease chafing, cover the burned area with a dusting of cornstarch. Don't apply petroleum jelly or oils, which can exacerbate the burn by blocking pores. If the burn is blistering, however, don't apply anything.

Source: nubathinc.com

Cool off with a soak.
Slipping into a tub of chilly water is a good way to cool the burn and ease the sting, especially if the burn is widespread or on a hard-to-reach area (such as your back). Avoid using soap, which can irritate and dry out the skin. If you feel you must use soap, use a mild one, such as Dove or Aveeno Bar, and rinse it off well. Definitely skip the washcloth, bath sponge, and loofah. Afterward, pat your skin gently with a soft towel.

If you're tempted to linger in the tub for hours, skip the bath and take a cool shower, instead. Ironically, soaking too long can cause or aggravate dry skin, which can increase itching and peeling.

Source: healthy-endeavors.com

Soak in oatmeal. Oatmeal added to cool bathwater offers wonderful relief for sunburned skin. Fill up the bathtub with cool water--not cold water because that can send the body into shock. Don't use bath salts, oils, or bubble bath. Instead, scoop 1/2 to 1 cup oatmeal -- an ideal skin soother -- and mix it in. Another option is to buy Aveeno, an oatmeal powder found in the pharmacy. Follow the packet's directions. As with the baking soda, air-dry your body and don't wipe the oatmeal off your skin.

Source: mygoodlyfe.com

Soak in vinegar. Adding 1/2 cup vinegar to your cool bathwater should also take the sting out of the sunburn.

Source: ifood.tv

Coat yourself in milk. Cool off with a cold glass of milk. Don't drink it; put it right on your body. Soak a facecloth in equal parts cold milk and cool water, wring it out, and gently press it on the burned areas.

Source: medimanage.com

Add some aloe vera. The thick, gel-like juice of the aloe vera plant can take the sting and redness out of a sunburn. Aloe vera causes blood vessels to constrict. Luckily, this healing plant is available at your local nursery or even in the grocery store's floral department. Simply slit open one of the broad leaves and apply the gel directly to the burn. Apply five to six times per day for several days.

Well, those are some things you can do to try to relieve the pain and help the burns heal quickly... Hope it helps!

Source: humor-articles.com

T.

Simple Rules to Lose Weight

Source: mybodytips.com

Hi everyone! This week, we will be talking about losing weight, yes, thats right! The most sensitive and important topic almost every girl is concerned about... Weight!!! I have been surfing the net and found some simple rules that if we keep to them, will help us lose weight simply with less effort. Want to hear more?

Source: beautytips.info

I have several simple rules to stick to for those of us trying to lose weight:

Source: thefoodexpert.com.au

1. Drink water …
No, you don’t have to drink a ton of water, but ensure that you drink 8 to 10 glasses of water every day. Don’t substitute for juice. Your body should always be hydrated. Your kidneys will thank you as it can easily flush out the waste. With adequate water intake your body will be able to metabolize fat more effectively.  And if you have a glass of water 10-15 minutes prior to your meal, you will feel full once you start eating.  Another fun fact, did you know that you can lose 62 calories by drinking ice cold water?  But it’s better to drink it between meals or before meals, so that your food gets digested properly.

Source: mytabr.com

2. Eat 5 times a day …
Start with breakfast. The more you eat for breakfast, the less food you will want to eat at night.  Please, don’t skip this meal as you’ll end up devouring everything in sight for the rest of the day. You don’t need to gobble up 5 large meals, just 3 meals of a sensible size and 2 delicious yet low calorie snacks. Eat sensibly so your body doesn’t crave for food. If you treat your body right it won’t demand for more attention!

Source: http://josh-wyxl.itmblog.com

3. Get some sleep …

Experts agree that too little sleep equals no weight loss. You need to get at least seven to eight hours of restorative sleep each night if you want to lose weight. Sleeping well lowers cortisol levels, helping your body burn that much-hated belly fat.

Source: withamymac.com

4. Keep a food journal …
Studies have shown that people who write down what they eat are more cognisant of what they eat and generally do a better job of eating right. Maybe it is because it makes you more accountable to yourself? Maybe you feel guilty when you write down “four cupcakes and two donuts” where you meant to write “one apple” as a snack? Either way, food journaling make take a little time, but it will make you thinner. Check out The Diet Channel’s food diary.

Source: everydayhealth.com

5. Control your portions …
Most of us eat way too much, even of the good stuff. I know I have a really hard time controlling cereal portions. Even if the cereal is totally whole grain and healthy, I still don’t need a heaping bowlful, but that’s what I want! So, to lose weight, we’ve got to start thinking about the actual size of the portions we’re eating. We don’t need a plateful of pasta, a bowlful of ice cream, or a supersize fry.

Source: i.dailymail.co.uk

6. Use weights …
Needless to say, exercise is crucial to weight loss. You can’t expect to sit on the couch all day, sip water and lose weight. Join a good gym that lets you work with weights. It will help you build muscle and your metabolism rate will increase. You’ll soon see the fat come off and in its place muscle will develop.

Source: quickweightlossprogram.ca

7. Don’t punish yourself …
Go easy on yourself at least one day in a week. If you begin to dislike your diet then there’s something wrong.

Source:ihatemyselfnow.com

Last but not least, LOVE yourself! If you want to be healthy and attractive, you have to first feel good about yourself more than anything else. People love those who love themselves and take care of their body and health! Until next time...

T.

Eye Bags!!!



Source: ayushveda.com

 
Hey everyone... Recently I've been facing abit of a problem lately with all the late night studying, projects and other random personal issues that I've been facing. The lack of sleep combined with the stress has caused me to develop dark eye circles around the eyes and its not only affecting me but my friends as well. So this week, I have taken some time to go online and search for simple effective solutions that we can do at home to help reduce the effects of this problem.

Source: jurilique.blogspot.com

The surprising solution actually comes from the most common things, we usually run for a slice of cucumber but did you know that raw potato slices will help tighten baggy, puffy eyes. All you need is a potato and a knife or slicer!

Source: apothecary.tumblr.com

To Make:

1. Slice 1/4 potato to fit over your eyes.
2. Cut 2 slices or, if you prefer, 5 to 10 very thin slices, several for each eye. Either method works.

To Use:

1. Spritz eye area with water.
2. Lying down, place the potato slices on your eyelids and leave in place for at least 10 minutes for best results.

If you are not a fan of potatoes, you can try this:

 

Source: prettyskinforless.net

Place a number of spoons in the freezer for about 30 minutes to an hour to allow it to absorb the cold. Use the backside of the spoon and place directly on the eyebags and dark circles for 2 minutes. Make use of the various angles of the spoon until the coolness is completely transferred on your face. Another alternative would be to place ice cubes in a small basin of water until the temperature drops to freezing. Take a small towel then dip and wring completely in the ice cold water before directly placing over the eyes covering the problem areas. Repeat the process one or two more times.

Or...

Source: superstock.com

Tea. Green tea or black? Both work well to soothe puffy, irritated eyes. The difference? Not much. Caffeinated teas help constrict blood vessels and reduce swelling, while herbal teas (especially chamomile) contain anti-irritants that soothe redness and inflammation. Steep 2 bags of your choice of tea in hot water for three to five minutes. Let cool until the bags are comfortably warm to the touch. Lie down, close your eyes, and place a tea bag over each eye; then cover with a soft cloth. During hot months, put the cooked tea bags in the refrigerator and apply to eyes when needed for a refreshing, eye-opening experience.

Here are some tips to prevent puffy eyes:

Source: fooyoh.com

• Enjoy a light self-massage, which can help relieve puffy eyes. Close your eyes and gently press your ring finger underneath one eye, moving in an arc shape from the inside corner to the outside corner. Massage 10 to 15 times. Then repeat on the other eye. This is a great massage to do before jumping out of bed.
• Use two pillows to keep your head elevated while sleeping. Fluid won't accumulate underneath the eyes.
• DON'T vigorously rub your eyeballs in the morning. Avoid touching them throughout the day.
• Watch what you wear. Do your eyes puff up midday? For women, beauty products may be the culprit. Many fingernail polishes, hair sprays, and makeup contain formaldehyde, which can cause eyes to swell. Luckily, the fashion industry is wising up and new formaldehyde-free beauty products are hitting the shelves. Use the process of elimination, avoiding each product for one to two weeks, to determine which is causing the blow-up.
• Give your eyes a break! For every hour you are on the computer, take a five- to ten-minute rest. Stare out the window, close your eyes and meditate, or stroll to the water cooler. While working on the computer, try to look away every few minutes.
• Keep your bedroom free from dust, pollen, and animal dander. Remove all dust-collecting objects, wash sheets once a week in very hot water, cover the mattress and pillows with dust-mite protective coverings, and bar pets from the bed. During pollen season, wash your hair before hitting the pillow, and use air conditioning instead of opening the window.
• Use hypoallergenic soaps and fragrance- and color-free detergen.

Source: skincareandmakeupexpert.com

Yeap... That's about all girls... Until next time...

T.

 

Blackheads!!!

Hey everyone! This week, I will be talking about BLACKHEADS! Yes, its exactly what you are reading, the nightmare of many girls when they look in the mirror. So what causes blackheads?

A blackhead is a yellow or blackish bump or plug on the skin. A blackhead is a type of acne vulgaris. Contrary to the common belief that it is caused by poor hygiene, blackheads are caused by excess oils that have accumulated in the sebaceous gland's duct. The substance found in these bumps mostly consists of keratin and modified sebum(an oily secretion of the sebaceous gland), which darkens as it oxidizes.


Sounds gross right? Below are more:

Source: http://www.mahalo.com/answers/whats-the-best-way-to-get-rid-of-blackheads-on-your-nose

Source: http://www.great-antiaging.com/blackheads/

Okay okay, I'll stop now... But I went on a search of Youtube which gave me some really nice homemade blackhead removal receipts that will save us quite a bit of money if we give it a try.

I personally prefer Michelle Phan's version of the pore strip because it is cleaner and less messy compared to the egg version.

Do give it a try and let me know what you guys think ok? Have a great time getting rid of those nasty blackheads...

T.

Hair & Head Bands...

Source: http://www.asianhairandbeauty.com/tag/hair-bands/

Hey everyone, it's me again and today I will be doing an entry on hair bands and head bands. On a recent shopping trip in Orchard, I realized many new styles of hair band and head accessories and after trying a few myself, I decided to do some research and write up a simple article on hair bands!

Here are some different types of hair accessories:

Plastic Headbands:

Source: http://www.bleudame.com/index.php

Source: http://www.aliexpress.com/fm-store/600787/210630288-365082769/freeshipping-lots-of-100pcs-4mm-blank-plastic-headbands-mix-color.html

This is the simplest of it's kind usually worn by school girls and young kids, many of us have at least a few of these lying around the house somewhere. However, that doesn't mean that it isn't meant for adults as many celebrities are seen wearing these on screen and off. The shape may vary from straight to wavy to round and from brightly colored to matte and the best part is that they are usually low priced so we can easily buy many without a big dent in our wallet.

Fabric Headbands:

Source: http://www.sheknows.com/hairstyle-photo-gallery/quick-easy-hairstyles/quick-and-easy-funky-fabric-headband-1

Source: http://www.babble.com/CS/blogs/strollerderby/archive/2007/09/11/crafty-reversible-fabric-scrap-headbands.aspx

There are two different types of fabric headbands, one that is a sturdy plastic covered with fancy cloth covering and another kind is broad elastics covered in fabrics. The second type is much better in my opinion because it doesn't slip off easily and is quite comfortable. Both styles are available in a wide range of colors, widths and designs, it is up to you how you want to mix and match it into different styles.

Novelty Headbands:

Source: http://slappinjapan.blogspot.com/2009/09/so-its-almost-fall-time-for-fall-trends.html

Source: http://www.promopeddler.com/boppers/boppers-soft-touch-halloween-headband-qqp139665.htm

These headbands are for parties and special occasions, they are made of fabric, wood, leather or plastic. Bunny ears, tiny horns, Halloween symbols and cat ears are among the most popular choices by people around the world.

Below are some of the ways to wear the head or hair bands:

For short hair:

If you have chin length or shoulder length hair:

This is for girls with longer hair:

Here's another style suitable for girls who have long hair:

 

Thats about all for now, do share with me more ideas and other styles that you think are creative and fashionable when you come across them ok?

T.

References:

http://ourbeautydiary.blogspot.com/2009/10/style-tips-wear-hair-band-like.html

http://www.oodora.com/fashion/fashion-accessories/the-headband-hair-trend.html

http://www.ivillage.com/6-fun-ways-wear-headbands/5-b-147621#147623

Hair Care Home Recipes...

Hey everyone, its me again... This week I was looking around online and I found some interesting receipts for taking care of our hair with a affordable and all natural solution and I just want to share them with you guys.

Source: http://www.sweetadditions.net/beauty/winter-natural-hair-care-using-home-remedies

Hot Oil Hair Treatment

Use this intensive treatment twice a month to rehydrate dry hair and prevent dandruff.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup of dried rosemary leaves
• 1/2 cup olive oil

Instructions

Combine oil and rosemary in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly until warm all the way through. Remove from heat and strain, to remove leaves from oil. Coat scalp and ends of hair with hot oil, then wrap in saran wrap and cover with towel to retain heat. Leave on 15 minutes. Wash twice to remove excess oil.

Source: http://www.ehow.com/how_2353322_use-avocado-hair-skin.html

Deep Conditioning Masque

This moisturizing treatment revitalizes hair, leaving it soft and full, strengthening strands and reducing split ends.

Ingredients

• 1 small jar of full-fat mayonnaise
• 1/2 of a ripe or over-ripe avocado

Instructions

Mash avocado with the back of a wooden spoon until soft and creamy. Mix mayonnaise into avocado until well-blended, and one color throughout. Work with fingers through hair, paying special attention to the ends. Cover head with warm, damp towel for deep conditioning, or put on shower cap. Leave for 20 minutes, rinse with cold water.

Source: http://www.goleshleeprofessional.com/

Enriching Conditioner

This protein-rich conditioner nourishes hair and regenerates growth, while being mild and quick enough for everyday use.

Ingredients

• 2 tsp olive oil
• 2 egg yolk
• 1 cup distilled or filtered water

Instructions

Beat egg yolk until frothy. Add oil and beat until well-blended. Add to water and distribute through hair, massaging into scalp. Rinse thoroughly.

Source: http://gimps.de/pictures/269-Hairstyles-for-Short-Hair

Residue Rinser

Gently remove shampoo and styling-product residue with this easy-to-make rinse, restoring natural shine and bounce to tired locks.

Ingredients

• 2 cups distilled or filtered water
• 2 Tbsp baking soda
• 1 Tbsp lemon juice
• 1 Tbsp apple cider vinegar

Instructions

Combine all ingredients and stir well. After shampooing, rinse hair with mixture.

Source: http://www.xgenuine.com/whether-you-long-hair-or-short-hair-no-matter-in-what-season-greasy-hair-and-scalp-are-annoying-things

Oil-Reducing Hair Tonic

Daily use curbs oil buildup, promoting healthy shine, and leaving hair smelling as fresh as it looks!

Ingredients

• 1 quart distilled water
• 3 heaping tsp spearmint leaves

Instructions

Add spearmint to water over medium heat. Bring to a boil and simmer 5 minutes. Cool and refrigerate in an airtight container. Use daily to rinse hair after shampooing.

Source: http://www.hairstyle2009.co.cc/2009/11/fresh-hairstyles-2009-for-girls.html

And here are some other simple tips I found online:

Tip 1: Rinse Dry Hair in Lemon Juice if your hair has lost it's shine.

Tip 2: Mix Apple Cider Vinegar and Water to get shiny, bouncy hair.

Tip 3: If you have tangled and frizzy hair, apply honey to your scalp and wash it off to help your condition.

Thats about all for now. I hope you guys would enjoy the receipts as much as I did, until next time.

T.