Monday, September 11, 2006

Tips Beauty Skin at Twenties Age

Skin is at its best in our twenties. The hormonal teen years are behind you, and oil glands, which provide skin with moisture and plumpness, are at peak production. The skin's cells contain strong collagen and elastin bonds, giving skin both firmness and resilience.
Tips:
  • Start good habits early by hydrating your skin daily with a moisturizer containing SPF (sun protection factor) of at least 15.
  • Washing your face, particularly with hot water, strips it of its natural oils. Be sure to use a gentle, moisturizing cleanser instead of soap, and follow up with a light moisturizer.
  • Avoid sun exposure, keeping in mind that damage from the sun now will turn up later in the form of sunspots and wrinkles.
  • They don't call it beauty sleep for nothing. Apply night cream before tucking in, and wake up to a beautifully moisturized complexion.
  • Don't forget to hydrate from the inside, too. Drink 8 glasses (355mL) of water each day to keep your skin looking and feeling radiant.

Article By :www.dove.ca

Friday, August 11, 2006

5 Tips For Aging Skin Care

People have been fighting the signs of aging for centuries. Nobody wants to look older and everyone wants to hold on to their youth. In today's world where it seems everyone can look like they are in their twenties forever, there are many tips for aging skin care.

Plastic surgery is not the only answer. The 5 tips for aging skin care described below are easy and anyone can follow them.

The following lists 5 of the best tips to fight aging skin. Most of them are simple lifestyle changes that will do worlds of wonder for the skin. Others are simple things you can add to your daily routine.

1. Sun- The sun is the biggest cause of aging. When people are young they love to get tan skin and have that sun-kissed look. Using sun screen is very important for aging skin care. Everyone should use sun screen and should avoid getting sunburned. Continuous sun exposure to unprotected skin can cause skin to age quickly.

2. Smoking- Cigarettes have been proven to cause skin damage. It causes yellowing of the skin and encourages wrinkles. Quitting smoking can help to stop rapid and early aging of the skin. Stopping smoking is an essential part of aging skin care.

3. Good health- A person who drinks plenty of water and keeps in good health will have better-looking and younger-looking skin. Hydrated skin looks pinker and healthier than skin that is not well-hydrated. Keeping your skin well-hydrated from the inside is an essential part of aging skin care.

Many health conditions can effect the way skin looks, so keeping healthy is an important part of aging skin care. It will go a long way to helping you have youthful-looking skin as long as possible.

4. Exercise- Exercise works to help skin from aging because it gets the blood flowing throughout the body. Skin with a healthy blood flow looks much better than deprived skin. Exercise will also help you to keep off excess weight, which can stretch and age the skin.

5. Beauty Routine- Following a good skin care routine is essential. Makeup should always be removed before bedtime. A good cleansing routine will help you avoid blackheads, acne and other skin problems. It is also important to use lotion on dry skin to keep it from cracking, which will also make it look aged.

These 5 tips for aging skin care are easy ways for a person to stop or reverse the signs of aging. They do not require a large bank account and anyone can easily do them. In fact, a person will find as they take care of their skin the rest of their body will be taken care of as well, so it is a great situation all around.

The fight against aging skin is ongoing. Aging skin care is something that must become a part of daily life. With some simple changes and additions to daily routines a person can fight aging in their own home..

About the Author
Denise Sears is a beauty and skin care writer who helps people learn about tips they can use. She is a contributing author at 4BeautyTips.com

Monday, August 07, 2006

Herbal Skin Care Is A Must For Healthy Skin

Do you instantly jump inside the cosmetic store after seeing the advertisement of a newly launched beauty care product? Don't feel embarrassed as there are many people like you. They just love to experiment with each and every cosmetic product for their skin enhancement.

But do these products always help in skin enhancement? Did you ever notice the ingredients of those chemical cosmetics before laying hands over them? Have you ever tried to find out the results of those chemicals on your skin?

Well, you never know if your skin is adapting to the application of those cosmetics or building a resistance towards them. The later case can also enhance the prospects of skin cancer. The chemicals like methylparaben, butylparaben, ethylparaben and propylparaben are absorbed into the skin, which can even cause skin cancer in the extreme cases. There are ample alternatives to the chemically produced cosmetics for a great looking skin.

You can move towards a healthier skin care with the help of some remarkable herbal skin care products and herbs. Certain herbs are known to produce magnificent glow on the skin with in a few days of their application. These herbs are easily available in the market. In fact, herbal beauty treatment has become a major alternative to cosmetic skin care treatments. For, the herbal products are manufactured with natural essence of the herbs and they do not cause any side effects on the skin. Today herbal skin care offers viable solutions to every skin problem. And your skin can retain the natural charm once again, if you start using the herbal products.

One fine example of herbal skin care success is the usage of Aloe Vera plant. It is one herbal plant that caters to numerous skin care aspects. First of all, it is a great natural moisturizer which can be used in any season, on any skin type. Another magical quality of Aloe Vera is that it helps in the reduction of sunburns.

You can grow this wonder plant of Aloe Vera in your home as well, and can use it for personal purposes. All you need to do is break the branch of the plant from the top and apply the gel (which pops out from the branch itself) on to your skin. You can also purchase the Aloe Vera gel from the market, but you would have to ensure that the product you buy contains 100% Aloe Vera.

The application of essential oils has its own special place in the skin care. The application of different oils helps in retaining and improving the health and texture of your skin and hair. One such oil, that is, Lavender oil is well-known for its mesmerizing fragrance along with its anti-allergic properties. If you develop a rash on your skin, just massage the oil on that particular area and you would get a sought relief from the rash.

Also, several researches reveal the fact that herbal tea and black tea act as a natural sunscreen lotion. When they are blanched in water and applied, the skin glows with an instant radiance and change in complexion.

Ayurveda, the traditional Indian science about complete balance of life, is also a great way to explore some amazing herbal treatments for skin care. The remedies are simple but their affect is simply out of the world. It provides certain herbal acne treatment that can cure your acne without leaving the acne marks on your skin.

The first principal of Ayurveda is to drink a lot of water for body detoxification. Secondly, eating protein rich food like soy and peas is essential for you as they provide effective treatment against grave acne problems. Thirdly, to avoid wrinkles you can try a procedure: apply egg yolk on your face once in a week for ten times to reduce the deep wrinkles. A mixture of honey, olive oil and fresh cream is also a successful alternative against the wrinkles.

If dark circles beneath eyes irritate you, try out the herbal kits available for dark circle riddance. You can purchase the kits from any herbal medicine or skin care store. You can also order it online. Likewise, there are thousands of herbal solutions to keep your skin forever young without the adverse impact of chemicals.

About the Author
Burt Cotton http://www.anti-aging-skin-care-product.org

Tuesday, August 01, 2006

Neutrogena Ultra Neutrogena Ultra Sheer

Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunblock, SPF 55, 3-Ounce Tubes (Pack of 2)

Review:
I really like this sunscreen. The UVA/UVB protection is so important, and most sunscreens only block UVA. The lotion goes on feeling like a regular greasy sunscreen, but it disappears rapidly into the skin and it truly doesn't feel greasy at all once it dries. I am not sure how or why, but I swear it also evens out my skintone. I do recommend applying a light coat of your regular moisturizer around the eyes first, as I find this sunscreen can sting when put on the delicate skin under the eyes. I made the mistake of slathering it on over my eyelids once, and I wouldn't recommend that you do that. I found when I sweated, the sunblock crept into my eyes. Ouch. So just don't apply it over the eyes and you should be fine. Anyway, great product.
Product Description
Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry Touch Sunblock SPF 55 combines Neutrogena’s coveted Dry Touch technology, which feels powder soft on skin, plus breakthrough, patented Helioplex technology that provides breakthrough lasting UVA/UVB sun protection.
When it comes to the sun’s damaging rays, it’s the UVA rays that go deeper into skin to damage cells and wreck free-radical havoc. Neutrogena’s breakthrough, patented Helioplex technology blocks more UVA rays than the leading sunscreens available in the U.S. today.
The ultimate in sun protection.
A distinctive blend of superior skincare aesthetics and cutting-edge sun protection technology, Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry Touch Sunblock SPF 55 gives you the best of both worlds in one elegant formulation. Neutrogena’s well-known Dry Touch technology utilizes micronized silica powder to absorb excess sunscreen oils, so it leaves your skin feeling incredibly soft and--never greasy or shiny. What’s more, it’s non-comedogenic, waterproof, and sweat-proof, so it won’t clog pores and resists stinging your eyes.
Dermatologists love to recommend Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Sunblock because it can help get higher compliance from their patients, due to the formula’s beautiful aesthetics. This may well be one of the many reasons that Neutrogena is the number-one dermatologist-recommended suncare brand.
Benefits:
  • Ultra-Sheer Dry Touch Sunblock SPF 55 gives you the best of both worlds: Helioplex, the strongest and most stable UVA sun protection, and Neutrogena’s Dry Touch technology, which provides superior skincare aesthetics in one lightweight lotion
  • Patented Helioplex, which contains stabilized Avobenzone, blocks more of the sun’s UVA rays than other leading sun protection products in the U.S.
  • Breakthrough Dry-Touch technology and silicone-based formula instantly absorb extra sunscreen oils, leaving skin looking and feeling extra-light and fresh, never shiny or greasy
  • Waterproof, sweat-proof, and resists running into eyes
  • Non-comedogenic, good for sensitive skin

Thursday, July 20, 2006

Simple Aromatherapy Blends

Beautiful Skin Made Easy With Simple Aromatherapy Blends by Misty Rae Cech, ND


Looking for that perfect skin product? One that will keep your skin looking great, smells great, is appealing to apply, has actual 'therapeutic' effects, and doesn't break the bank? Look no further than aromatherapy. Creating a wonderful blend just for your skin type with the magic of potent natural botanicals is fun and rewarding in more ways than one. Essential oils are widely used in natural medicine, and some are well-known for their skin rejuvenating effects.

While some of the most highly regarded therapeutic grade oils may seem expensive at first, they are effective in such small concentrations as to really make them worthwhile. And their efficacy is well-known; that's why so many laboratory-made preparations use components of essential oils in their formulas. With a one or two ounce bottle to mix in, and an eye dropper, you can easily mix your own blend with the aroma and actions you desire most.

There are a few essential oils most often used in skin care recipes - you can pick and choose from among these depending on your desired results. Other essential oils may be added to enhance the aroma of your blend; many oils used to do so are also are know to relieve tension or bring about a healthy state of mind - and most natural clinicians will tell you that beauty starts from the inside-out. So make something you love the smell of that also helps your skin glow!

These few primary skin care oils include the following: Helichrysum italicum - the oil of this flower is one of the most highly regarded in aromatherapy for it's great versatility. It has a pleasant aroma, it contains rare 'di-ketones' which stimulate the skin's natural metabolism, and is a powerful anti-inflammatory (all tissue damage and aging is associated with inflammation on a cellular level). Lavender oil - 'true' or 'French' Lavender is the most used oil in aromatherapy today because of it's great multitude of effects. Like Helichrysum, it contains regenerative ketones; it reduces inflammation; it speeds wound healing; AND it has an aroma very well known for its relaxing effects - easing tension while healing your skin - could you ask for more? Next up is Rosemary of the 'verbenone' type. It also contains ketones (that the cineol type does not) and is known as a circulatory and metabolism stimulant, increasing the flow of nutrients in, and waste products out, of your skin cells. Palmarosa essential oil is included in many blends for it's gentle cleansing and antiseptic properties. And last but not least, Carrot Seed oil is the premier oil for regenerating tired, lifeless skin - often a result from too much stress or high levels of pollutant exposure.

There are several other oils with positive effects on the skin (some will be mentioned in the blends below), these just happen to be the most often used. With research, you can find essential oils that will address particular skin conditions that are not covered here. Further, there are in fact hundreds of essential oils available, each with it's own unique composition and aroma. Adding a little to your blends simply for their fragrance influence is highly recommended. A few drops of precious oils like Jasmine, Neroli, Sandalwood or Rose can create that aromatic combination you simply love, and will want to wear all the time.

The essential oils are almost never applied to the skin undiluted (Lavender is a rare exception). Instead, they are added to what are known as 'carrier' or 'base' oils. Diluting the essential oil in carrier not only stretches your dollar, but the oils actually are more effective this way! Research has shown that most essential oils have the most dramatic therapeutic effects at concentrations of less than 5% of the total blend. And the carriers have their own positive effects; besides helping your skin absorb the essential oils, they provide nutrients such as essential fatty acids, and vitamin compounds which enhance the skin's health.

Some of the more commonly used carrier oils in skin care are as follows: First is Hazelnut oil - pressed from, obviously, Hazelnuts. This is considered the most gentle of the carrier oils, suitable for all skin types. It often serves as the primary base oil in blends, making up a majority of the mixture. Next is Rosehip seed oil, pressed from Rosehip seeds grown in the mountains of South America. This well researched oil not only has a wealth of essential fatty acids, but contains trans-retinoic acid, a compound similar to the active ingredient of Retin-A (a well known wrinkle cream), but without the drying side effects. Lastly we'll mention Evening Primrose oil, often included in blends for aging skin and for eczema - it has one of the highest known concentrations of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an essential fatty acid which may be crucial to optimal health.

So there are the primary ingredients, and the reasons behind them. With these, and a few of your own personal touches, you can create a great variety of blends. To go ahead and start mixing, acquire a one or two ounce dark glass bottle to mix in, an eye dropper and a small funnel (you don't NEED this, it just makes the whole process a lot less messy). For the first recipe, we'll start with a blend that's for daily use for all skin types. It's created to give the skin health and vitality, while keeping it clean and beautiful: Pour one ounce of Hazelnut oil into your mixing bottle (double all the ingredients if you'd like to make two ounces). Add fifteen drops (about 2/3rds of a milliliter) Thyme essential oil of the Linalool chemotype (be sure to get this kind, as other types of Thyme are to strong to use on the skin). The add fifteen drops each of Rosemary verbenone, Neroli (or a high-quality Petitgrain - distilled from the same plant as Neroli with a lower cost), Spike Lavender (almost a cross between true lavender and sage - excellent for it's antiseptic properties). While originally created as an acne-clearing blend, it did so well for so many folks it is now used as a basis for healthy 'normal' skin as well.

For overly sensitive and damaged skin (from chemicals or other means) and for skin with weak capillaries (showing spider veins may be a symptom), start with a 5:1:1 ratio of Hazelnut, Rosehip Seed and Evening Primrose oils (3/5 ounce Hazelnut, and 1/5th each of the other oils). Add fifteen drops each of German Chamomile, Helichrysum italicum, true Lavender, and Roman Chamomile. This blend will enhance the regenerative capability of the skin through the action of the Helichrysum and Rosehip seed, provides nutrients through in the Rosehip seed and Evening Primrose, and reduces the inflammation which accompanies any type of damage and aging.

For clearing excessively oily and acne-prone skin, to one oz. of Hazelnut oil, add fifteen drops each of Myrtle essential oil (use the green, rather than red, variety), Eucalyptus Dives, Spike Lavender, and Rosemary verbenone. The Myrtle is special in that it dissolves the sebum clogging skin pores, and the Eucalyptus calms the output of the sebaceous (oil-producing) glands.

If your skin has no particular 'condition', but appears tired, lifeless, pallid, or 'worn out', try mixing one-fifth ounce of Rosehip Seed and four-fifths ounce Hazelnut oil. Then add 15 drops each of Carrot Seed essential oil (also known as Queen Anne's Lace or Wild Carrot), Lemon verbena (which helps the skin detoxify), Niaouli (gently tightening the skin), and Rosemary verbenone - this creates an excellent restorative blend. For aging skin needing firming that can be used around the eyes - try this more gentle variety: Mix in five ounces of Hazelnut oil and one ounce of Rosehip seed oil, add fifteen drops of each of Myrtle essential oil (green), Cistus or Rock Rose and Rosemary.

So there are a few tried-and-true aromatherapy skin care blends to use in your natural beauty regime. You can easily mix and match the oils described to create your own blend, and add any oils you really like the aroma of (be aware that a FEW essential oils are VERY strong, and should not be used on the skin - the more common of these include Cinnamon, Clove, Oregano, and Red Thyme - consult with a knowledgeable practitioner if you are unsure about the safety of any oil). A word about purchasing oils for your blends - do NOT use anything labeled as a 'fragrance oil' - these are synthetic reproductions of essential oils that will likely cause an allergic reaction. DO seek out a reputable source. And oils, like wine, do vary greatly from maker to maker. A higher price can mean a significantly nicer oil (though not always) - one that is sweeter, or more well-rounded - only a few oils should smell 'medicinal' - Spike Lavender is a little 'camphorus' in general - but a good Rosemary verbenone should have a very appealing scent . Despite the initial outlay, you are more likely to continue to use a blend that you really like the aroma of, and that has therapeutic effects. Though once you find the oils you adore, you're more than likely to continue the practice of making your own blends for some time to come.

About the Author
Misty Cech, ND is a degreed naturopath and owner of the Ananda Apothecary, offering pure aromatherapy essential oils and flower essences.

Saturday, July 15, 2006

Home Remedies For Clear Skin

Easy Home Remedies For Clear Skin by Mike Herman


There are few things more frustrating than blemished skin, so consider turning to these easy home remedies for clear skin instead of harsh and expensive skin care creams and washes.

Especially if you have sensitive skin, you will most likely find that over the counter and prescription skin care products are too strong and can potentially add to the problem with your skin.

Furthermore, a trip down any grocery store or drug store aisle will produce an overwhelming number of skin care products that can easily rack up a hefty bill. Instead, save your skin in addition to saving a few bucks by whipping up a quick and easy skin care remedy out of items that are probably already in your home.

* Clear Your Skin From Within *

Remember the old saying, you are what you eat?

Although the adage has been around for years, the advice is completely up to date. If you find yourself suffering from acne or other skin blemishes, take a look of your body from the inside out.

Your body notifies you when something is off balance, especially when you are lacking the proper nutrients, vitamins, and minerals. This notification can likely express itself in the appearance of blemishes.

Instead of slathering your skin with items from the beauty aisle, take a walk down the rest of the aisle in your grocery store in order to experience a regeneration of your skin.

Eating a well-rounded, healthy diet is incredibly important. Be sure to include lots of fresh fruit and vegetables in your diet, as the nutrients provided by these items are critical.

Furthermore, drink at least eight eight-ounce glasses of water each day to ensure that your skin remains well hydrated.

* Skip The Drug Store And Head To The Kitchen *

Read any label of skin care product available on the retail market and you may find your tummy rumbling. These skin care products are packed with edible ingredients, from oatmeal to honey to avocado to cucumber.

Instead of buying these expensive, heavily preserved creams, lotions, and potions, consider making the alternative mixtures yourself.

Look no further than your kitchen for many fantastic home remedies for clear skin.

When you see a zit pop up, avoid the urge to squeeze! Instead, dab a bit of lemon juice on a cotton swab and apply to the affected area.

The acid in the lemon juice will help extract any infection and your will avoid adding more bacteria to the mix by keeping your hands off your skin.

Since one of the main problems associated with skin blemishes is dead skin cells, exfoliation is critical. Instead of spending big bucks on fancy bottles and containers of exfoliants, grab a canister of old fashioned oatmeal.

Mix with water and scrub your skin clean. The gentleness of the oatmeal is perfect for even the most sensitive skin and the grainy consistency will remove any dead skin cells before they have a problem.

You probably use toothpaste with baking soda for whitening your teeth, so why not use the same product to clear up your skin?

Each night, wash your face with baking soda and water. This mixture is perfect for keeping your skin clean and dry. The basic property of the baking soda works to dry up the excess oils that typically cause skin blemishes.

If a pimple rears its ugly head then you should head immediately to your stove. Mix ground nutmeg with milk and boil.

After the concoction is completely cooled, apply to the affected area and let dry overnight. Wash the yummy mixture off your face in the morning and you will be surprised by the results!

About the Author
Find The Info You Need at www.Acne-Care-and-Skin-Treatments.com

Wednesday, July 05, 2006

Angels on Bare Skin Facial Cleanser

Angels on Bare Skin Facial Cleanser Products by LUSH

angels on bare products


This is LUSH's 100% natural facial cleanser, and I couldn't be happier with it. Angels on Bare Skin (AOBS) is for all skin types, but it works great on my combination skin. Never too drying or oily! AOBS is made with really soothing ingredients like rose and lavender, and it has ground almonds to help exfoliate your skin. Because LUSH uses the ground almonds, it is a lot gentler on your skin rather then using a sand/rough exfoliating base. After using it, my face is left very soft and cleansed perfectly.

Product Features
Gentle facial cleanswer for all skin types
Contains ground almonds for gentle exfoliation and rose and lavender to calm and smoothe
Mix with a little water, rub gently on to the face and rinse off for fresh faced smoothness

Product Description
Angels on Bare Skin is a gentle facial cleanser for all skin types, made to an authentic recipe from the Middle Ages for the use of anyone with a romantic disposition and a wish to be carried off by a knight in shining armor. The ground almonds exfoliate gently; rose and lavender calm and soothe. Just mix with a little water, rub gently on to the face and rinse off for fresh faced smoothness.

Important Information
Ingredients
Perfume, Lavender Oil (Lavendula hybrida), Water (Aqua), Rose Absolute (Rosa centifolia), Glycerine, Kaolin, Ground Almonds (Prunus dulcis), Lavender Flowers (Lavendula hybrida),

Monday, June 26, 2006

Aloe Vera Skin Care Recipes

Aloe Vera Skin Care Recipes Homemade
Kevin Pederson


1. Silky Aloe Vera Skin Care Body Lotion
1 cup Aloe Vera gel 1-teaspoon lanolin 1 teaspoon Vitamin E oil 1/3-cup coconut oil 1/2 to 3/4 ounce beeswax 3/4 cup almond oil 1 ½ teaspoons essential oil Use a blender (or food processor) to mix the Aloe Vera gel,lanolin, & vitamin E oil. Microwave coconut oil & beeswax in a glasscontainer on high 30 seconds, and stir. Repeat heating in 10-second blocks until fully melted. Stir in almond oil, reheating if necessary. Run blender
or processor at low to medium speed, and then pour in melted oils in thin stream. As the oil is blended in, the cream will turn white and blender'smotor will start to grind. As soon as melted oils are added and you'veachieved mayonnaise-like consistency, stop the blender; add essential oil and pulse-blend. Do not over blend. Transfer cream to glass jars while still warm - the lotion will thicken quickly. This lotion really absorbs well and leaves no residue on skin. This recipe makes two cups.

2. Oats & Aloe Vera Exfoliant for your skin
1 tablespoon finely ground oats 1 tablespoon finely ground almonds 1-teaspoon honey 1-tablespoon Aloe Vera gel Combine ingredients in a bowl and stir until well mixed. Apply to face and neck skin after cleansing and before toner is applied, using gentle circular motions. Rinse well with warm water and gently pat excess moisture from face. Follow with facial mask.

3. Aloe Vera Face Mask for Healing and Soothing
(Great for sensitive and dry skin, especially after sun bathing) Ingredients: -3 TBS pure and certified organic aloe Vera juice -1 drop Helycrisum essential oil -1 drop Rose essential oil Combine all ingredients and apply mixture evenly on face and neck. Leave it on for at least 7 minutes and rinse with warm water. Pat dry, and apply the following "healing
and soothing" aromatic blend, prepared in advance in a 10-ml bottle filled with vegetable oil: -1 drop Neroli essential oil -3 drops Lavender essential oil

4. Aloe Vera Skin Toner
Soak a cotton pad with pure aloe Vera gel and use it to freshen your skin and remove excess oil. Use daily, following with moisturizer. This is especially good for normal and oily skin and is a great overall toner.Dilute the gel 50/50 with spring water if you have sensitive skin. You can also use the juice of a leaf from your aloe plant. Cut off the amount you are going to use, and put the remainder of the leaf in a plastic bag in the refrigerator. The leaf will keep for about 3 days.

5. Floral Aloe Vera Gel
1/2 cup Aloe Vera gel (available in most natural food stores) 1 tbsp. dried lavender flowers or 3 tbsp. fresh. 1 tbsp. dried calendula flowers or 3 tbsp. fresh. 1. Mix together the aloe Vera gel with the lavender and Calendula flowers in an ovenproof glass container, then heat the container gently by sitting it in a hot water bath on the stovetop. 2. Let the mixture cool completely, and then pour it through a clean, fine strainer (to remove all of the solids) into a clean container.

6. Exfoliating Foot Mask
1/2-cup oatmeal 1/2-cup cornmeal 1/2-cup coarse salt 1/2 cup unscented body lotion 4 tablespoons Aloe Vera gel in a large bowl, combine all ingredients.Slide feet into mixture and rub, beginning at toes, working up to heel and ankle. Do one foot at a time, rinsing in a separate bowl of warm water.

7. Exfoliating Aloe Vera Face Mask
4 Tbsp. Pumpkin puree 1 Tbsp. Honey 4 tsp. Cornmeal 2 tsp. Aloe Vera gel 2 tsp. Pineapple, diced 1 tsp. Green tea 1/2 tsp. Sunflower oil 6 drops frankincense essential oil (optional) 4 drops cinnamon extract (optional) Directions Steep green tea in boiling water. Set aside to cool. In blender or food processor puree pineapple and place in medium-sized mixing bowl. Add
pumpkin, honey and aloe. Mix well. Stir in sunflower oil, green tea and cornmeal. Discard the remaining green tea. Add frankincense and cinnamon. Stir. Apply small amount of pumpkin mask to cheeks, forehead, chin and neck.Massage in circular motions gently buffing skin. Repeat. Apply more product as needed. Leave a thin layer of pumpkin mask on face and neck for 15-20 minutes. Rinse with tepid or cool water and pat dry with soft towel. Follow with appropriate moisturizer. Store remaining mask covered in refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Benefits: Pumpkin enzymes dissolve dead skin cells while the cornmeal sweeps them clean. Honey has antimicrobial properties as well as moisturizes and softens. The result is a beautiful glowing complexion.
Use this mask as often as you like.

Kevin Pederson has been managing a number of natural home remedies websites,such as http://www.home-remedies-for-you.com , which have a lot of information on home based natural cures for some of the most common illnesses.

Friday, June 16, 2006

Natural Health Spa Treatment

Homemade Spa Treatment: A Natural Health Spa Treatment at Home! by Ashley Green

After a week of hard work, pamper yourself with a special spa treatment that you can easily do at home. Here's what you can do

A spa treatment at home serves as an excellent choice to give yourself a lavish treatment for a day and make yourself feel like a queen/king, who deserves to be treated in a special manner. Read further to learn about do-it yourself home spa..

Trying out home spa ideas can help a great deal in rejuvenating you and that too without spending loads of money. For a home spa massage, you don't really require any special equipment like massage table. All you need is to use your creative imagination to set the mood for relaxation. Life becomes beautiful if you know how to enjoy life and cherish its every moment.

Setting the perfect atmosphere for relaxing your body is very essential, otherwise there is no point taking so much pains. Enjoying the home spa massage with your partner would be a fantastic idea, not only to recharge your energy but also to add some spark to your love life.

Random Tip:
Keep your mobiles switched off, while you spa treatment is going on.

Put on some light, soothing music to further enhance your relaxation. Dim lights or candles are just perfect for the spa treatment.

You can prepare the spa by lighting candles around the bathtub. Stress relief and scented candles really help to unwind. Start filling the bathtub with tolerably hot water. Put about a tablespoon of shampoo, shower and bath gel and stress relief mineral bath salts. Adding rose petals can be very soothing and relaxing.

All these ingredients help to relax you. After this get into the bathtub and just enjoy the spa in your bathroom.

Ask your partner to give you a good body massage and you also do the same. The atmosphere should be very peaceful and calm, so you and your partner should speak softly.

Meditate for some time, so as to experience a complete relaxation of mind, body and soul. Close your eyes and perform breathing exercise. First inhale the air, hold your breath for a few seconds and then exhale the air out. Concentrate while breathing, release the tension and let your worries flow out.

The bathroom is an ideal place for a spa and its proper designing is something that is capturing the attention of the people. They are getting more particular about choosing quality design hydro- therapeutic showers and tubs, glass tiles etc.

So try out these home spa ideas and get lost in the beautiful, peaceful world, where you can completely relax yourself.

Random Tip:
Take 1 tablespoon of gram flour, 1 /4 tablespoon of orange peel powder, 1 tablespoon beaten yogurt and 1 tablespoon olive oil. Mix the ingredients well and apply the paste to your face and neck. Let it remain till the skin starts feeling a little fry and then rub your face with your hands till it glows. Wash your face first with warm water and then with cold water. This will remove all the blemishes. - your ultimate natural beauty mask.

About the Author:
Ashley Green For Natural Skin Care Articles Directory your complete and most comprehensive family guide on Skin Care.

Saturday, June 10, 2006

Protect And Improve Sensitive Skin

How To Protect And Improve Your Sensitive Skin ! Submitted by: Claudia Budu Ph.D
TelBari Inc

Sensitive skin shows continuous hyperactivity to environmental factors and exhibits a reduced tolerance to frequent or prolonged use of cosmetics and toiletries. The skin displays signs of irritation such as erythema, desquamation or discomfort such as itching, burning and stinging. These conditions are becoming even more pronounced after exposure to dry and cold climates. Sensitivity can also increase with age. It has been reported for example that the skin gets more sensitive in women at the beginning of menopause.

Many ingredients usually included in cosmetics such as dimethyl sulfoxid, benzoic acid, salicylic acid, propylene glycol, lactic acid, sodium lauryl sulfate, sodium benzoate, cinnamic acid, sorbic acid are potential irritants. Formulations, in which a beneficial constituent is involved, can be detrimental for the skin in certain conditions. For example, a formulation containing a small molecule such as acid hydroxy acetic (AHA) with a lower pH can provoke sensations of tingling, itching or irritation when applied to sensitive, unhealthy or inflamed skin. Such reactions can be triggered by uncontrolled release of the acid, fast penetration into the skin and low pH.

The moisturizers, which enhance the barrier function of the skin can protect against different irritants. Therefore, choosing a good moisturizer is one of the most important steps for a healthy skin.

Natural constituents such as: essential fatty acids (linoleic and gamma linoleic acids), vitamins, minerals, high percentage of water and water like ingredients are the basic stones for providing skin regeneration and nourishment. Humectants, such as glycerin have an important role in retaining skin moisture and support the elasticity of the skin. Antioxidants, such as protoanthocyanidins found in grape seed oil for example, are particularly helpful in stabilizing the collagen structure, which held tissues together. Other antioxidants such as, beta carotene, vitamin E, vitamin C and selenium are beneficial for overall protection against environmental condition and UV rays. And finally, the least chemicals in a cream, the least chances of irritation and adverse affects it has when applied onto the skin.

By using natural and organic skin treatments, you will receive the same beneficial effects to your health as you would eating an organic food. Natural products are easily assimilated through the skin, easily metabolized as they are recognizable molecules and the surplus is easily discarded. However, the skin adjustment to the natural regimen is not a rapid process and it doesn’t occur with one application. It is a long term commitment, which substantially increases your skin health and rejuvenating power.

You certainly may choose the shortest way of becoming suddenly perfect, by covering skin imperfection with makeup, or by choosing a strong synthetic cream, which might show you 5 years younger but usually with side effects.

In conclusion. Give your skin the same attention as your inner body. Nourish it and protect it as you would nourish and protect your whole body. Don’t wait until is too late to change to a natural cosmetic regimen.