I am back with another DIY solution for your skin. Glowing skin is what everybody desires. People spend so much money by going to parlours. Though the effect of parlour treatment is almost immediate,is it long lasting? I don’t think so. I prefer using ingredients from the kitchen which are readily available.These are absolutely natural ingredients and are safe. And these things give a glow to your face like no other parlour treatment can give. And guess what? The results are permanent. When at first my mother asked me to use homemade face masks instead of going to the parlour i laughed at that but now after using all these homemade masks I am sure I am not going to the parlour for facials.
And I am sure these home remedies for glowing skin are going to work for you guys as well.
Happy reading ☺
1. Honey and lemon juice –
In a bowl take 2tbsp honey and mix in it 1tbsp lemon. Mix it well. Apply it on your face and leave it for 20 minutes.Wash it off with cold water. Lemon works as a natural bleach and honey gives instant radiance. One could also try applying just honey on the face. Honey and Lemon is perfect for removing your tan too.
2. Banana face mask-
In a bowl take half a banana(ripe),mix 1tbsp yogurt to it along with 1tbsp honey. Mix it well until the banana is mashed completely. You could add 2-3 drops of rosewater too. Now apply this face mask and leave it for 20-25 minutes before washing it off with water.Banana is best for getting glowing skin.
3. Tomato juice –
Simply mix tomato juice along with lemon and apply it on your face. Let it sit for 20minutes and then wash it off with plain water.Follow up with a good oil free moisturiser.
4. Olive oil or coconut oil-
People have this misconception that if they apply oil on their face, they will get pimples .This isn’t true. In fact either olive oil or coconut oil should be applied on the face for at least 10minutes before taking a shower. This is a really effective method to get that glow that you have always longed for.I follow this routine daily and this has worked effectively for me.
5. Potato and lemon juice-
Take the juice of half potato and mix in it about 1tbsp lemon juice. Apply this on your face daily for a week and you will be able to notice a beautiful glow on your face. Rub this mixture on your elbows too to get rid of dark elbows. This mix when used continuously for a week, will help get rid of all that stubborn tan.
6. Papaya face mask-
In a bowl take papaya and mash it well. Mix in it about 1tbsp honey, 1/2 tsp turmeric (you don’t want to be left with a yellow face instead of a glowing one) and 1tsp honey. Mix all the ingredients well and apply this on your face for 20 minutes and then wash it off. Apply rosewater on your face after that.
7. Milk and lemon-
Mix milk and lemon together. The milk should be unboiled. Apply this and you would get a radiant skin within a week. Milk helps to moisturise your skin and lemon helps in bleaching the skin naturally thus causing no side effect.
Additional tips-
1. For people with dry skin mix glycerine and rosewater and apply it on your face daily.
2. For people with oily skin mix gram flour(besan) with rosewater and apply daily. Alternatively fuller’s earth could also be used.
3. Apply aloe vera on your face daily .
4. Exfoliate your skin at least twice a week to get rid off the dead skin cells.
5. Always keep your skin hydrated and moisturised.
6. Always remove your makeup before going to sleep and apply your night cream.
7. Rub an ice cube on your face for an instant glow.
To begin with, I have extremely sensitive, acne prone, oily skin that is always on the verge of breakouts. Due to this reason, I avoid moisturizers (except for aloe vera gel) all my life. However, as I am approaching towards late 20s, I have been noticing that the texture of the skin looks very unhealthy and that natural glow is missing somewhere. Hence, I wanted something to rejuvenate and nourish the skin. After searching high and low for all the ingredients that works on acne prone skin without giving much trouble, I made this night serum for myself and to my surprise, I did work! I have been using it past a month and thankfully I observed some good changes in my skin. Firstly, it never broke me out and also nourished the skin. Secondly, it hydrates the skin throughout the night with getting oily or greasy. So, here goes the night elixir for acne prone skin.
INGREDIENTS:
Aloe Vera Gel – you can either take it directly from the plants and blend it smooth to have the gel consistency or simple buy one!
Jojoba Oil – Works wonder for oily acne prone skin. You can also substitute it for Avocado OR Almond Oil for preference.
Rose Water – either homemade or store-bought will work.
Vitamin E Capsule – easily available across the counter otherwise you can also opt for Vitamin E oil.
Sanitized Bowl – since it is a face product, it is better to have a sanitized place to start with and then transfer it to a dropper bottle or any container.
STEPS
Step 1
Add 1 tbsp. of rose water in the bowl.
Step 2
Next, add 2 tbsp. of aloe vera gel. Mix it thoroughly as both the ingredients have different consistencies and takes effort to blend well. You can also add 1 tbsp. if you want a runny consistency but I wanted sort of a slightly thicker one, so I added 2 tbsp.
Step 3
Add 2-3 drops of Jojoba Oil and again blend it in.
Step 4
Lastly, take out 1-2 Vitamin E Capsules and poke them to take out the oil. Add the mixture very comprehensively unless you see a uniform consistency without any lumps.
Final outcome
And Voila! You night serum is ready!
TIP: Do not make it in a large quantity because it is handmade and hence, the preservatives are missing. Make it enough for a week or two at the most.
FOR DRY SKIN – Since dry skin or mature skin needs more than just aloe vera gel, they can use shea butter or cocoa butter instead of aloe vera gel. They can also incorporate the essential oils like Almond, Rosehip, Grapeseed, etc. as per their own preference.
BENEFITS OF THE INGREDIENTS –
Vitamin E – Vitamin E is the main ingredient I would vouch for. It has excellent properties to revive and renew the skin cells at night. It treats the scars and marks on the skin due to ageing or acne. Being a great moisturizer, it nourishes the skin well without making it greasy or clog the pores when applied. It soothes and treats the sun burns and regular tanning of the skin. Most prominently, it make collagen that decreases the rate of aging signs like wrinkles, fine lines, etc.
Aloe Vera Gel – this is the HG for every oily skin. Seldom moisturizers suit us and we always find our way back to this. Aloe Vera, known as “plant of immortality”, it has numerous benefits for skin. It moisturizes the skin, heals the scars and soothes the skin from acne and nourishes without any greasy layer which gets absorbed in a jiffy. It also lightens skin pigmentation and slows down the ageing sign.
Jojoba Oil – it is known to fight wrinkles, stretch marks and cellulite. With high amount of ceramides which cover skin cells, it hydrates and nourishes the skin like no other. Oily skin doesn’t go well with other oils but this is an exception. It is so light weight and gets blended very easily. It also has anti-bacterial properties that treats acne and allergies.
Rose Water – the beauty of rose water in indefinite. From toner to face packs, makeup setting spray to hydration – it can do everything. It treats acne, soothes the skin from sun burns, refreshes and invigorates and has many anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties for sensitive skin.
Do let me know how you liked the DIY.
Editor’s Note: I swear by Vitamin E capsules, but they are so sticky and messy while applying. I guess the mix of rose water and aloe vera gel will make applying Vitamin E easier. Also I am all for essential oils, I love using them. Definitely trying this Sanchita.
Acne Scars – Causes, Prevention Measures and Home Remedies
By Archana
Hi all,
After many product reviews, I am back with an informative post today. Acne is one common skin condition that many people suffer from. Though it mostly occurs in teenagers, many adults too face it. In today’s post, I will explain the common causes for acne, prevention measures and some home remedies to cure acne scars.
What causes acne?
The four main reasons for acne are:
* Excessive oil production
* Dead skin cells
* Clogged pores
* Bacteria
When our body secretes excess sebum/oil, they build up in the hair follicles and form a soft plug, creating an environment where bacteria can thrive in. This bacterial infection causes inflammation eventually leading to pimples. Whiteheads and blackheads too are actually clogged pores with bacteria and oil.
Some factors like hormonal imbalance, certain foods, stress, etc can trigger or aggravate the acne conditions.
How to prevent the occurrence of acne?
It’s always better to prevent the occurrence of acne in the first place with some good skin care routine.
* Keep your face clean by washing your face atleast twice a day to remove impurities, dead skin cells and extra oil.
* Use a separate towel for your face.
* Change your pillow covers and bedsheets weekly.
* Avoid or limit the intake of deep-fried foods, dairy products, sugar, salty snacks and junk food.
* Avoid using oils, gels and fragrances on your hair.
* Wash your hair often as oily hair can add to the oil on your face.
Home remedies for acne scars:
When a pimple occurs, it can leave behind marks and scars. Though there are many pigmentation creams and anti-acne gels available in the market, home remedies are always more effective and with no side effects. Only thing, they need to be followed diligently for atleast two weeks to see improvement. Here is a list of easy remedies at home to cure acne scars:
Lemon mask for acne scars:
* Lemon juice – 1 tbsp
* Honey – 1tbsp
* Milk – 2 tbsp
* Rose water – 1 tbsp
Mix all the above together and using a cotton wool apply on the acne scars. Leave on for 15 minutes and wash off. Lemon juice is a natural bleaching agent which helps lighten the scars. The rose water helps to soothe the tingling sensation caused due to lemon.
Aloe vera gel for acne scars:
Extract fresh aloe vera gel from the plant and apply on face. You can leave it overnight. Do it regularly for two weeks for the acne scars to fade. Aloe vera not only soothes inflammation but also helps in regenerating damaged tissues and speeds up the healing process.
Blend the cucumber into a smooth paste. Add the gram flour and turmeric powder and apply as a face pack. Leave for 20-25 minutes and then wash off. This treatment is good for sensitive skin also to get rid of acne scars.
Potato and tomato mask for acne scars:
* Half a potato
* Half a tomato
* Honey – 1 tbsp
Grate the potato and extract the juice from it. Blend the tomato into a fine paste. Add the potato juice and a teaspoon of honey. Apply this mix all over your face and wash off after 15 minutes. Tomatoes contain the enzyme lycopene which help to lighten pimple marks. Potatoes also have skin lightening and bleaching properties.
Cinnamon and honey mask for acne scars:
Add half a teaspoon of cinnamon powder to one teaspoon of honey and apply on your acne scars. Leave it for an hour and then wash off. This mixture has anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties which is effective in treating the acne.
Tea tree oil for acne scars:
This is a proven remedy for reducing acne scars. Tea tree oil is an excellent antiseptic, antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral essential oil. Just dilute some tea tree essential oil in water and apply this solution on your acne scars everyday. Leave it overnight. Follow it regularly to see visible reduction in scars and blemishes.
Apple cider vinegar for acne scars:
ACV is a natural astringent and balances the pH level of your skin. It is effective in the treatment of acne too. Mix 1 part of apple cider vinegar with 1 part of water and 1 teaspoon of honey. Dip a cotton ball in the mixture and apply on scars. Leave it for 15 minutes and wash off. Do this once daily.
Sandalwood and orange face pack for acne scars:
* Sandalwood powder – 2 tbsp
* Orange peel powder – 2 tbsp
* Rose water – 2 tbsp
Mix all the above into a fine paste and apply as a face pack. Leave it for 30 minutes and wash off. According to Ayurveda, sandalwood is a effective soothing and cooling agent to treat skin inflammations. Orange peel powder helps to lighten the marks.
So these are some of the home remedies you can follow to cure acne scars, pimple marks and blemishes.
Editor’s Note: This was a really well written post Archana and the remedies are fab. I think I always stick to Aloe Vera Gel and the fuller’s earth, sandalwood mix. I will surely try the other home remedies mentioned by you.
Which ones have you tried? Share your experiences below.
Scrubbing is extremely essential in winters as the development of dry skin needs to exfoliate to preserve then natural radiance of the skin itself. Honestly speaking, I prefer my winters with oversized sweatshirt, hot chocolate, a warm bed to snuggle in and reading a soul touching book. Yes, I am one of those lazy girls who like to keep the skin well-scrubbed of dead cells and yet do nothing about it. This is when a dear friend of mine told me to make a ‘scrub bar’ that would clean and exfoliate at the same time. My heart leaped with just with the thought of such multipurpose body care product and I immediately thought of making it. So it’s time, my dear readers of NLM, to let you know how to DIY this amazing thing!
Things you need:
Crushed soap bar. (a gel based one works better and easier to deal with)
Olive oil.
Glycerin.
Ground coffee. (not the instant one which blends in but the grounded beans for filter)
Empty container.
Steps:
Step 1
1. In a double boiler or on top of a boiling water, place the cut out pieces of the soap. Do not put it directly under the flames which would lead to burning.
Step 2
2. Once the soap melts in heat, simmer it down and add 2 tbsp. of olive oil and glycerin each. Then, mix it well with the liquid soap.
Step 3
3. Now add the coffee in it and again use a spoon to mix it well.
Step 4
4. Remove the mixture from the heat and pour in it the container. Now, this has to be done very quickly as the soap has the tendency to get sticky.
Step 5
5. Keep it in the refrigerator for 1-2hours. It also depends upon the soap on how much time it requires to solidify. Mine was done in 1hour.
Final
6. And you homemade scrub bar is ready to use!
P.S: You can also add big granules of sugar to exfoliate. Sugar is slightly coarser when solidified and hence I generally feel it is too rough for my normal skin but if you have dry skin, you can incorporate that. Also, you can make a separate scrub bar with sugar and walnut particles for feet as well.
As we all know, soaps are excellent in washing the dirt and therefore I added it to cleanse the skin. Olive oil and glycerin is extremely hydrating and hence, while scrubbing you will get the desired moisture to be restored. Lastly, the coffee particles are coarse and semi-fine milled which helps in exfoliation- gently and effectively. It stimulates the blood flow while scrubbing and tighten the skin thereby reduces cellulite and great for anti-ageing.
Overall, this has been a lifesaver for me. I imply invest less time for skin care yet get the best of it. Do let me how you liked my DIY.
Editor’s Note: This sounds amazing Sanchita and I love the coffee smell, definitely trying it out.
Have you tried making something like before? A DIY Scrub Bar? Will you try this? It’s easy peasy.
Lifestyles today are more stressful than comfortable, despite the luxuries that we can indulge in. Computers, mobiles, and all the electronic gadgets that we have involved to make our lives simpler have further disturbed our working schedules, that too on the cost of the health of our body. More work, less sleep; and the direct results are clearly visible in the puffiness and dark shadows around our eyes.
Raccoon eyes, under-eye bags, dark circles, shadows, panda eyes; all these are names of the same problem. So what basically causes our eyes to develop such conditions?
Read below to know more.
Causes
Whether you may know it or not, the skin which appears to be bluish black under our eyes is because of the skin in that area being too thin, thus making the blood vessels visible all the more. No, your blood vessels are not exactly blue; but only the wavelengths of blue and purple colors are allowed to be reflected by your under-eye skin, thus giving an impression of bluish-black under eye bags.
1. Genetics
One of the major causes of recurring or prominent dark circles is genetics. If your parents have thin skin around the eyes, or more than average blood vessels, it is almost certain that you will be passed on with the unfortunate trait.
2. Age and Gender
Dark circles under the eyes can begin to be dominantly visible in your 20’s, both in males and females alike; but they are most daunting in the old age. In old age, our skins loose elasticity and do not have the ability to regenerate the skin cells at a steady pace, thus the predominance of raccoon eyes.
3. Fatigue and sleeplessness
In case of fatigue, skin produces a chemical named cortisol, to give your body dynamism when it is working on low levels of energy. It increases the volume of blood in the body, thereby enlarging the blood vessels by creating more pressure in them. As the skin is thin around your delicate eyes, the engorged blood vessels are more prominently visible.
4. Ruptured blood vessels
At times, blood vessels under the eyes can get ruptured and the blood leaking from them starts oxidizing; leading to dim shadows on the lean membrane underneath the eyes. However this is nothing to be much apprehensive about, as in the company of the right type of treatments; this hitch can be easily rectified.
5. Excess of sleep and other lifestyle reasons
Dark under eye circles can even be caused by high sodium intake; which helps in retaining more fluids in body, leading to puffiness; which in turns makes dark circles more visible. Sleeping on your stomach for prolonged periods of time, leads to the accumulation of fluids in the facial area, especially around the eyes, causing freaky dark circles. Or say, when you have been crying uncontrollably, for any reason whatsoever, the salinity of your tears leads to puffiness around your eyes. So forget what happened and just smile 🙂
Remedies
If you are one of those few unlucky ones who have to bear with the problem of dark under eye circles, no matter what, and you do not want to spend on swanky under eye creams or laser surgeries; these home remedies await you.
a) Cucumber apart from acting as a cooling agent, also works as a lightening instrument and an astringent for your skin. Placing cucumber slices on your eyes, or gently rubbing cotton balls dipped in fresh cucumber juice can help to reduce the dark circles. Though the cucumber juice works better if you leave it overnight. Don’t worry; your skin will readily absorb it.
b) Potato juice is great to reduce the puffiness around the eyes, and is often used for treating tan spots and blemishes. Grate a raw potato, extract its juice, and apply the freshly squeezed juice to the affected area. Leave it on overnight if possible.
c) For added goodness, mix both cucumber and potato juice, and with a soft cotton pad, dab the juice gently on to the skin. Leave the juice on for about half an hour, and wash the face with cold water.
ADDITIONAL TIP: To keep the eyes moisturized, follow up by gently massaging olive, coconut or almond oil around the eye area. Remember not to put too much pressure around the eyes.
2. Frozen metal spoons
For instant relief from under eye circles caused by lack of sleep, or sleeping in the wrong posture for prolonged periods of time; all you need is two frozen metal spoons. Make it a habit to keep two metal spoons in your freezer so that you can utilize them any time you want. Just place the rounded edges of the spoon on the eye area and let it rest till the temp of the spoon becomes normal. The cooling effect will help stimulate blood circulation and also decrease the quantity of fluid accumulation around the peepers.
3. Chilled Green tea bags
Green tea is chock full of anti-oxidants, and anti-oxidants are good for your skin. Period. Dip two green tea bags in boiling water, and let them stay immersed for about 3-4 minutes. Take out the tea bags and place them in the freezer, letting them stay till they are chilled. (In the meanwhile, enjoy the goodness of your green tea.) Once the tea bags are chilled enough, place them onto your under eye areas, one bag on each eye, and let them rest for 15-20 minutes. You will notice the results for yourself.
4. The goodness of rose water
Pure Rose water is one product which is the answer of almost all skin care problems. Yes it is that good. Dab a pair of cotton balls in cold rose water, and apply it to the eyes. Let the cotton balls stay on the eyes for as long as possible and wash your face off. Do not forget to follow up with a rich moisturizer.
5. The Wonderful Tomato juice
Most of the treatments for dark under eye circles lie in our own kitchen. Tomatoes comprise of lycopene, which is a great anti-oxidant and has the ability to lighten your skin. Squeeze the juice of one ripe tomato, or mash the pulp and mix in a teaspoon of fresh lemon juice. Lemon juice again acts as a bleaching agent and has anti-inflammatory properties which reduce puffiness. Apply this mixture under the eyes and let it stay for about 15 minutes and wash it off with cold water for better results.
6. Crushed mint leaves
Mint has amazing cooling properties which helps in instantly soothing the skin and reducing the appearance of dark discoloration around the eyes. Crush a few mint leaves using a mortar and pestle and apply the leaves as it is under the eyes. Wait for about 15 minutes and then remove any residue with a damp cotton swab. You can even mix the goodness of cucumber juice to the crushed leaves for better results.
7. Cold compress or ice pack
Cold compress works on the same principal as that of the metal spoons. The chilling effect will help stimulate blood circulation, thereby diminishing puffiness and rectifying the temporary pigmentation under the eyes. Either use a gel based cold compress, or take a few ice cubes wrapped in a thin cloth, and place them under your eyes till the ice melts off completely. Goodbye, raccoon eyes. 😉
8. The efficient milk and fenugreek seed paste
This DIY under eye face mask can work wonders to rectify dark circles. Take a few fenugreek (methi) seeds and soak them overnight. The next day, grind the seeds to form a fine paste. To this paste add a tablespoon of milk and a pinch of turmeric. Mix well, and apply the paste under the eyes.
9. White bread and milk
Milk has both fats and proteins, making it the best moisturizer for our skin. Mix this elixir of goodness with a slice of white bread, mixing it into a fine paste. Apply this paste daily on your under eye area for smoother and even toned under eye skin.
10. Say goodbye to bad habits
Smoking, drinking and stressing a tad bit too much are the main causes which can lead to hyper pigmentation around the eyes and leads to fluid accumulation, causing puffiness. For eyes that do not resemble that of a panda, try bidding goobye to these bad habits of yours.
Till when are you going to hide the dark under eye area with corrective concealers and heavy-duty foundations? It is high time you followed one of these easy tips listed above and bid goodbye to these nasty shadows which never allow you to look your best. But remember that all the points listed above are purely natural and you should not expect instantaneous results; patience is the key.
Editor’s Note: Well written post Ishleen, I am going to try some of the tips myself 😀
Do you have dark circles? Use any of the tips mentioned? Also add your own tips in the comments below which work for you.
First Impression: OxyLife Natural Radiance Creme Bleach
Hi guys,
There are so many times we feel our skin looks dull and lacks that inner glow. We all need that glow, right 😉 Especially before an important event or a party.
Does your skin lack glow and looks dull and dark? Has uneven skin tone? Often exposed to harsh sunlight,dirt and pollution? Well chances are it lacks oxygen.
With age, your skin loses its ability to retain and utilise oxygen for normal metabolic processes. Oxygen basically nurtures and energizes your skin, making it look hydrated, plumper and younger!
And how can you get oxygen into your skin? This new bleach OxyLife can help.
Powered with the patented OxySphere Technology developed in Germany, OxyLife bleach gives a radiance that a regular facial can never give.
How does OxySphere Technology work?
Enables pure oxygen molecules to be trapped in the product
Oxygen is released from the product at the time of application
Oxygen molecules go inside the skin to give a high boost of pure oxygen
What does OxyLife bleach claim: BECAUSE THAT GLOW ON YOUR FACE IS PRICELESS! Presenting, the original oxygen bleach that makes you look radiant in just 15 minutes – OxyLife. Enriched with active oxygen and post-bleach skin radience serum, OxyLife solves 5 fairness problems like-dark spots, uneven skin tone, dull skin, dead skin cells and sun tan.
What does OxyLife bleach do to your skin?
When OxyLife bleach is applied on the skin, pure oxygen is released.The scientifically formulated bleach has micro structurants which help prevent the released oxygen from escaping into the atmosphere. The oxygen carries active ingredients into your skin, brightens, nourishes, energizes and protects, giving you naturally radiant skin instantly!
How I use:
Wash face with plain water and pat dry.
Take crème bleach and powder activator in the ratio of 7:1.
Using the spatula, mix the activator and crème for a good 2 minutes till the powder activator dissolves completely.
Apply the mixture on the area to be bleached. Avoid application on eyebrows and around the eyes.
Allow it to remain for 10-12 minutes
Wash off with cold water.
Apply the post-bleach skin radiance serum on the bleached area
MRP: Rs. 35/- for 7g (1 use), Rs. 80/- for 27g (3 uses)
My skin needed that oxygen or that glow, it was starting to look dull of late. So I thought why not give this a try. Also OxyLife Natural Radiance Creme Bleach is ammonia free, that gave me another reason to try it out.
OxyLife Bleach will help get rid of all your dead skin cells, tan and make the frizz on the face lighter in turn giving you a fresh, glowing look.
I tried the single use pack of OxyLife Natural Radiance Creme Bleach, I feel the single use pack is better as it comes pre-measured and there is no risk of too much cream or activator.
The post bleach skin radiance serum is transparent and gel like in texture. It glides on smoothly on the face and gives a dewy finish to the skin.
My skin looked fresh and radiant, I could see a visible difference. I have a bit of fuzz too, so with that being light and the tan and dead cells gone,my skin looked amazing. I believe the effect would easily last for 2-3 weeks.
Absolutely loved the OxyLife Natural Radiance Creme Bleach and recommend it. For people who regularly bleach, you can try this out next and for people who want to get into bleaching, start with something mild like this one.
I am not into regular bleaching but whenever I do, I will prefer OxyLife Bleach, definitely #SayYesToOxygen
Have you tried the OxyLife Natural Radiance Creme Bleach? What do you think of it?
Some people are plagued with bad skin their entire lives. For most of these, genetics and environmental factors play big roles. But so to lifestyle and controllable behaviors. Speaking as someone who grew up with bad skin, I’ve had to learn a lot of these lessons the hard way. Now as an adult, I’m finally enjoying the skin I wish I always had. If I had learned these lessons earlier, my acne-covered teenage years and eczema-ridden 20’s might have been much, much happier. Because these techniques have worked out so well for me, I’m going to share them with you here.
1) Use Coconut Oil.
Coconut oil has enjoyed a tremendous amount of press in the past few years. But it has earned every bit of it. I use coconut oil for a lot of stuff. It’s a great replacement for butter or other oils when baking or frying. It can be used as a condiment. It is possible to clean with it (or so I’m told). People will tout the excellence of coconut butter in a million ways. But my favorite way to use coconut oil is as an acne mask. It has many of the skin benefits of petroleum jelly, without being made of petroleum. In fact, coconut oil is so natural a product that your skin just soaks it up. It’ll stay on the surface for awhile, acting as a shield against your skin when out in cold, dry air, and the other factors that damage your skin on a daily basis. But as it soaks in, the nutritious elements inherent to the fruit will soak into your skin, and you’ll start to derive a lot of benefit from them.
I found that there’s nothing like light, fresh air, and exercise for acne. There’s just something about being active that seems to regulate the forces that make for healthy skin on my body. And it doesn’t take a long time. We’re talking about 15 minutes of focused activity each day. With that little time and effort commitment, I have been able to see measurable results. For days when it isn’t sunny, or at night when the sun is out, I like to use this mask product available from Modern Bathroom. Combined with the regimen mentioned above, you’ll get better skin with just a little bit of work.
3) Drinking a Lot of Water.
For much of my life, I was dehydrated and didn’t even know it. It makes sense. I drink a lot of coffee, and some days I’ll have a drink or two with my friends. These habits, combined with an active lifestyle and…well…just breathing, causes you to lose a lot of moisture into the air. This process of dehydration is very damaging to your skin, which relies on water to be healthy and robust.
4) Sun Protection.
Other than my 15 minutes of exercise and sunshine, I avoid direct sun exposure. It’s pretty easy for me, because I work inside. But for other people who are outside a lot, it is imperative that you practice sun protection all the time. It is as simple as getting a high quality sun lotion and applying it every morning before you head outdoors. If you are out for more than 4 hours, take your tube along and reapply. If you do this every day, not only will your skin be more healthy, but you’ll also have a lot lower chance of developing skin cancer later in life.
With just these techniques, you’ll quickly see a change in your skin for the better. Many of us grew up with bad skin, but the skin we have in the future is, at least in part, our choice. Do the work today by being smart about sun exposure and using an acne mask, and your skin and future self, will thank you.
There are lots of things we do every single day that ruin our looks, from washing our hair to talking to our friends. Don’t believe me ? Shocked ? You ask how ? Read on..
To make sure you stay looking pretty, fresh-faced and perfect, check out this list and make sure you don’t do any of these habits that ruin your appearance. If you do find some of your habits on this list, we’ll also give you remedies and solutions to each and every beauty dilemma.
Coming back to the everyday harmful habits..
1. Sleeping
Although we all need our beauty sleep, sleeping could be causing your skin to age unnecessarily. The problem with sleeping is not the process itself .The problem lies with your pillowcase. Surprisingly your pillowcase can draw moisture away from you and this can age skin. It can also leave unattractive lines over your face. Also, the hair tends to fall more on a normal pillow. To combat your pillowcase problem dermatologists recommend you invest in a silk pillow cover/satin pillow case. Silk contains amino acids, similar to those found in our moisturisers, so when we rest our heads for the night our skin is not losing any essential moisture. Problem solved.
2. Applying makeup/Doing touch ups
When we apply our face creams, our expensive moisturisers and our foundation, most of us are guilty of doing so with our fingers. Although using your fingers is fine, how many of us clean our hands before doing so? Some of us may wash hands before applying makeup in the morning or the night, but not so many do so when they do the odd touch-up job. This is bad news for our skin. The bacteria from fingers transfer to face, which can cause infection and spots. To prevent blemishes and still use your favourite beauty products make sure you use a hand sanitizer before applying your face creams or use makeup brushes.
If you are not sure in how to apply correctly your make-up you could find many courses in internet or locally in pages as olx.com.bd
3. Drinking water
Although drinking water can help improve the way we look, the way we actually drink can make us look terrible. Using bottles or straws to drink is something most of us do every single day, but did you know that drinking through a bottle or straw can age our skin? Drinking in this way can give us the same lines and wrinkles around our mouths that smoking causes. If you want to stay looking young and wrinkle-free it’s time you buy a glass and ditch the bottles and the straws.
4. Talking to your friends
I know we all are big time gossip mongers but does our skin like it ? Think about the places we leave our phones. We leave them on café tabletops, in the drinks holder of our car and on the seat in changing rooms. We leave our phones on shop countertops, we lend our phones to our friends and even leave them on the side in the public bathroom when we wash our hands. When you think about your phone in this way, it’s not surprising that phones can cause spots and blemishes. To combat this problem use antibacterial wipes and be a little bit more mindful where you leave your phone next time you’re out and about.
5. Washing your hair
If you want to look hot and feel good the very least you need to do is keep clean, right? Well, although basic hygiene is obviously a vital part of your beauty regime you have to choose your products carefully. Within most shampoos and hair conditioners you will find a foaming chemical called sodium laureth sulphate. Although commonly used, this chemical can damage your hair, your skin and your health. The Hair Loss Control Clinic explain that sodium laureth sulphate can even cause your hair growth cycle to decline and suggest the chemical can prolong your hair loss phase. So to keep your hair thick and luscious, choose products that do not contain this chemical, like organic shampoos and conditioners. But though, most of the companies now have switched to Sodium Laureyl Sulphate which is not that harmful.
Did you realise your everyday habits would be harming your skin and hair ?
Men mostly ignore their skin and never pay attention to even the basic things, which can in turn matter a lot, in the long run, to keep their skin younger and nicer looking.
Some things men need to follow:
Use a mild facewash: Determine your skin type and use a gentle cleanser/face wash and ditch those soap bars. You can try the new Garnier Men Oil Clear Facewash if you have oily skin and the Garnier Men Acnofight Facewash if you have acne. And if you have normal to dry skin, you can try Garnier Men Powerlight Facewash
Always use a good moisturiser: Moisturising the skin is also equally important, for all skin types. You can try Garnier Men Powerlight Oil Control & Fairness Moisturiser. If you have oily skin, the oil control would help you keep a check on that too throughout the day.
Use a good high SPF sunscreen everyday: Do not skip a sunscreen. Since most of you must be out in the sun, throughout the day, you should definitely use a sunscreen 365 days.
Use a mild exfoliator (not an harsh scrub) with AHA and/or BHA to get rid of the dead skin cells, and help regenerate the new skin cells.
Use a product containing benzoyl peroxide overnight, if you have acne.
Use a good, rich night cream if you have dry skin.
Now some don’ts:
Do not use a soap bar: Bar soaps are drying and irritating which irritates and inflames skin, plus the ingredients that put bar cleansers into their bar form can clog pores. Routinely using bar soap on your face can also impede shaving, potentially leading to razor bumps and a more frequent need to replace your razor blade.
Do not go for products with too many fragrance ingredients : That will only irritate the skin more.
Do not buy cheap razors: Invest in some good ones. Your skin will thank you, in the long run.
I guess some basic do’s and don’ts is only what men need to follow for good skin. And they are good to go !
Would you like to add some skin care tips for men ?
Ya I know you might think..how can one have fun in this scorching heat..and the skin would burn, tan and we would be dehydrated, etc
Sunshine, heat and humidity can harm the skin. Sun’s rays are particularly strong, so the chances of developing wrinkles, age spots, freckles, etc increase. And higher heat and humidity means more rashes, breakouts, and clogged pores.
Well fret not..we have Kyra on board..who knows exactly how to have fun in summers !
So here she is to share her summer secrets so that you and I can live it up this summer..
Sunscreens, Light water based moisturiser, Exfoliation scrubs and Hydration are a must during this season.
1) Hydration: Hydrating your skin is very crucial. Drink atleast 10-12 glasses of water and/or fresh juices. Eat leafy vegetables and fresh fruits.
2) Protection: Always carry an umbrella and wear sunglasses to protect your eyes. Use stylish scarves to cover your head and hair. Apply a sweat-proof sunscreen lotion with an appropriate SPF and which provides both UVA and UVB protection and PA++ or +++ and reapply as needed.. (a minimum of SPF 30 and SPF 50 for pools and beaches ). Sunscreen should be according to your skin type..i.e the one meant for oily skin or dry skin. Use a lip balm with an SPF.
3) Exfoliation : Exfoliating twice a week would help remove the impurities and dead skin cells collected but use a mild bearable exfoliator..after getting back home, apply cold yogurt on the face to remove tan. Here are some other useful tips helpful in getting rid of the tan. You can also use the Lakme Sun Expert After Sun Range..the after sun face wash, gel and mask would help soothe and cool the skin.
4) Light Make up: Skip the heavy liquid foundation for lighter mineral foundation with a minimum SPF of 15. Use a waterproof mascara and eye pencil..a bronzer where sun kisses the skin, for that amazing glow..and a dab of lip gloss.
5) Clothes: Wear loose fitting cotton clothes, lots of whites, floral summery dresses and bright colors, wear open toed sandals or flip flops.. nothing that would sweat your feet..and you can add bright colorful accessories for that added dash..
6) Night Regime: Cleanse the skin at night to remove all the makeup, dirt, grime and water proof sunscreen..and use a good hydrating, repairing night cream.
