Showing posts with label Beauty Tips. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Beauty Tips. Show all posts

Tuesday, May 20, 2014

Will New Makeup Technology Turn Salons into Cyber Salons?



Do you have that perfect lipstick shade that you absolutely love? Do you also fear the day you run out and worry you’ll never find it again? What if you were able to “print” that favorite lipstick shade or eye shadow right from your own home? Because of new makeup technology, now you can!

Not Just Any Old Printer...

The new technology, Mink, allows users to “print” their own lipsticks, eye shadows, and blush right from their own home. You can surf the web and find that perfect lipstick or eye shadow shade, and print it…like anyone would their favorite photo, article or recipe. The new Mink technology costs around $200 and it looks like any ordinary printer in size and shape.

How Does it Work?

The printer is built to include a formula comprised of basic cosmetic ingredients. Studies have shown that while some may prefer Chanel, most women who buy more expensive cosmetics will also purchase the cheap Wet n’ Wild at local drugstores. It’s all about convenience for most people today. Designer and inventor, Grace Choi, believes that her invention will succeed because it caters to today’s do-it-yourself society that also caters to convenience.

What Do Salons Think?

Should this type of technology take off, local salons will inevitably see a decline in cosmetic inventory sales. But what if salons were to catch onto the technology and purchase a couple of printers for their clients’ use? It could help that teenage girl looking for the perfect prom hairstyle, or the professional woman look for that perfect rich hair color, or anyone in between looking for that perfect lipstick shade that they don’t have to bounce from drugstore to drugstore to find...because who has time?

The Birth of Cyber Salons?

Who ever thought that some day you would be able to print your own favorite cosmetics. This technology could take social media sites like Pinterest to a whole new level. “Pin and print” that gorgeous lipstick you just found and have it to go with your new ‘do or that new dress within seconds.

Most professional cosmetologists and salons will probably dislike the idea of turning a portion of their salon into part cyber café, especially when the space could be used for more chairs, spa services, etc. but for the clients showing up for their appointments, but maybe need to flip through some magazines for that perfect look, it could be a great convenient solution.

How easy would it be to go online or surf Pinterest to find that perfect lipstick or eye shadow? Or even the product you love but fear you will never find again once it's gone. Those days are over...or will certainly shortened to a minimal amount once this new technology takes off. While the Mink printer may still be considered costly for some, for those who spend at least $200 per year on make up and cosmetics, this is a deal.

While the company and Mink technology plan to target individuals between the ages of 13 and 21, it is likely that the technology could catch on and be marketed to a wider reach, should popularity and use increase. All in all, time and the future will tell how individuals will be finding their make up, what their salon visits will look like, and how beauty, fashion, and cosmetic 2.0 trends spread.



Image credit: © didecs - Fotolia.com

Written content: © 2014, 2013, 2012, 2011, 2010 J.H. Language Solutions

*This topic was written by J.H. Language Solutions for a third party. This article has been altered to fit this blog accordingly.  J.H. Language Solutions in no way assumes ownership of the content above. Topic posted by third party permission.

Thursday, March 13, 2014

The Most Common Beauty Concerns Solved



Our bodies are all different. Our DNA is different and our bodies respond to certain treatments in different ways. It doesn't take a rocket scientist to tell us that. But our bodies also give off basic signs of when we are getting too much of something or not enough of something. Here are some tell tale ways we can determine what our beauty issues mean and how to deal with them.

Dry, or Damaged Hair. Don't you hate that brittle, weak, hay-like feeling when you brush or run your fingers through your hair? This could mean that you aren’t using a moisturizing or hydrated shampoo, or that you are applying too much heat, such as from a hair straightener, hair dryer or curling iron, or it even can be caused from sun damage.

Another potential cause is nutrition. Most wouldn’t think that what they eat or don’t eat has an effect on hair health, but it does. Unhealthy diets, or for those who may not eat enough can cause our hair to become brittle and weak, ultimately leading to damage.

The solution here? Using a conditioner, hydrating or moisturizing shampoo, or even sticking to a healthier diet can lead to stronger and healthier hair.

Weak or Yellow Nails. This is especially difficult to overcome in the winter. Our skin is always so dry and itchy, and it can be difficult to maintain strong, beautiful nails. However, weak or yellow nails can mean something different. It can mean that our nails are being exposed to too many chemicals such as various nail polishes, nail polish removers, or even shampoo and soap from washing dishes. In addition to dry and damaged hair, weak and yellow nails can also be an effect from a lack of protein or iron in your diet.

To fix this? Use nail polish removers without acetone, or wash dishes using gloves, and eating a banana or having a salad at least once per day. You can also use moisturizers for your hands that will not only battle dry skin, which could also lead to weak nails, but will also supply your skin with Vitamin E. Over a short period of time, you will begin to see your nails become stronger and healthier.

Acne. This is probably the most annoying, frustrating, and stubborn beauty concern many of us have. Even more annoying is the fact that acne could be caused by a number of issues: nutrition, stress, skin allergies, hormones, dehydration, or even genetics. However, try some home remedies such as  drinking more water, cutting out greasy, junk food, or even changing your pillow cases. After a little while, pillow cases can become gritty with hair products and oil from our skin that can make our skin dirtier.

If you have a severe acne problem, be sure to speak to a licensed health care professional, such as your primary care health care provider or dermatologist.

Health and beauty concerns certainly go hand-in-hand. If you are currently experiencing or have experienced one, several, or even all these beauty concerns at one point or another, then you know how frustrating, annoying, and disconcerting they can be. Well, worry no more. While some of these beauty concerns can also mean health concerns and illnesses on a larger scale, most of these can be treated with home remedies or altering simple beauty habits and changing diets.



Written content: © 2014, 2013, 2012, 2011, 2010 J.H. Language Solutions

*This topic was written by J.H. Language Solutions for a third party. This article has been altered to fit this blog accordingly.  J.H. Language Solutions in no way assumes ownership of the content above. Topic posted by third party permission.

Monday, February 17, 2014

Is Bacteria Crawling Around in Your Make Up Bag?

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Do you or one someone you know keep a make up bag that is filled with items older than dirt? Each of us, even the professionals, either has a make up bag like this, or know at least one person who does. The truth is, using expired or old cosmetics, even if they are unopened, can be harmful to our health. Here are some timeframe tips on how and when to ditch the dirt!

Would you ever use expired aspirin or drink expired milk? Of course not! There are serious side effects and health concerns that can result as a consequence from this. But what most aren’t aware of is that the same thing can happen with using expired cosmetics…even the ones that are unopened! Cosmetics that sit for a long period of time can begin to grow bacteria, which is never a good thing. Now imagine putting on your bacteria-ridden and infested mascara, eyeliner, or even blush! This can cause serious rashes, break outs, and even infections. Is your skin crawling yet?

So what is the typical…and safe…timetable for each type of cosmetic? Liquid foundation and mascara should not be used after six months…especially mascara. Think about clients putting bacteria on their eyes! This most certainly can cause a serious infection…and it’s not fun or pretty. In addition, you should pay attention to what they use to apply foundation. Do you use a brush or a pad? Brushes should be washed and cleansed at least once per month and pads should be thrown out and replaced every six months.

Eye and lip liners can typically last up to a year, but any longer and they begin to deteriorate. Also, sharpening them often will avoid bacteria build up and keep them fresh. Anything that is liquid, such as lip gloss, balm, gel liners, and even nail polish will eventually dry up and become crusty over time. Obviously you shouldn’t even attempt them at that point. Throw them out. Make this a part of your make up routine.

Remember how important it is to clean out your make up bag every six months to a couple times per year. This will ensure you are always using the freshest and healthiest cosmetics and to ensure you are wearing them safely. As we mentioned above, even the unopened items won’t last forever and shouldn’t be attempted for use after the allotted time frames.



Image credit: © Vankad - Fotolia.com

Written content: © 2014, 2013, 2012, 2011, 2010 J.H. Language Solutions

*This topic was written by J.H. Language Solutions for a third party. This article has been altered to fit this blog accordingly.  J.H. Language Solutions in no way assumes ownership of the content above. Topic posted by third party permission.

Thursday, December 19, 2013

What is Really in That Shampoo Bottle?

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Today there is a lot of focus on what we put in our hair, what we put on our faces and our bodies, and what we use to brush our teeth. As more natural and “green” products come to the surface, more and more people are beginning to take notice and use them. But do we know how safe these products are to use? We think they are...but are they really?

More people are becoming aware of what they put in their hair and on their faces and what they use to wash up with in the shower. Many are beginning to realize that the chemicals, preservatives, and other ingredients in every day cosmetics such as soaps, shampoos, conditioners, and even toothpastes are unsafe and can even be hazardous to our health.

As a result, there are some new products that are becoming available on the market that are used 100% from natural products. However, through the last several years, new companies selling natural products have had difficulty coming up with a formula that has been both safe and effective. Formulas particularly for anti-aging, conditioner, and make up and other cosmetics have been difficult to perfect. However, as time goes on and technology improves, companies are getting better are perfecting their formulas, which means we will begin to see more and more natural products on the market.

It’s alarming to many people the dangers that can be contained in a bottle of shampoo, a tube of mascara or lipstick, or even in a bar of soap. For those of you who are especially nervous, like me, I highly recommend a universal app that you can use when going to the department store to buy cosmetics and other products. The app is called “Skin Deep”, and it is available for both the iPhone and Android. It allows users to type in or scan the product name, and the app rates the product from a 0, which is the safest, and/or uses the most natural ingredients, to 9, which is the most dangerous.

While this app works great and it certainly can be addicting (like most apps...because we aren't addicted to our Smartphones and tablets enough, right?) one thing to keep in mind when using this particular app is that the ratings given are based on customer reviews. Therefore, a particular product may have a lower rating because only three people have rated it, or rated it negatively. While it serves as a great guide for looking to see what's in that bottle of shampoo before you buy it, and the harmful effects it could have long term, remember to kind of take it with a grain of salt and to pay attention to reviews as well. Oh, and don't forget your Internet research...

Most of us are aware of and have seen the "green" and natural products shift occur over the last several years. The important thing is to become aware of what is used in products and what the long term effects on your health can be. It will probably scare you, it will probably make your paranoid, and it will probably even change your life, but at least you are more aware of it and can make changes where necessary.

So the next time you step into the shower and grab your shampoo or bar of soap, be sure to make a mental note to check the label the next time you are at the store. Take note of the ingredients and the chemicals and make your selection and your purchase accordingly. Remember, while that bottle of shampoo might make your hair feel gorgeous or maybe it has the right price tag, is your long term health worth it? Why take the risk? Check your labels...


Written content: © 2013, 2012, 2011, 2010 J.H. Language Solutions

Image credit: © Abdone | Dreamstime Stock Photos

*This topic was written by J.H. Language Solutions for a third party. This article has been altered to fit this blog accordingly.  J.H. Language Solutions in no way assumes ownership of the content above. Topic posted by third party permission.

Tuesday, July 30, 2013

The Importance of Foundation and Skin Types

Does the type of powder matter for different skin types? Does the type of brush you use also make a difference for skin types? What about for those who feel like they can’t use a powder or foundation because of how their skin type reacts? There may have different reasons for using or not using a powder or foundation on their skin. Here is how you can find the perfect powder or foundation for your skin type.

It’s important to remember that choosing a powder or foundation is an important part of any makeup routine. The type of foundation selected must compliment one’s skin tone in skin type and color. Many choose a foundation that does not accurately portray her skin tone or color. This can lead to the embarrassing “line” that becomes apparent along the jawline and the neck. Some may use too much foundation, leaving their complexion looking thick, cakey, and fake. Some may use too little foundation, leaving their complexion looking bare, dull at times, oily, or blemished.

So how can you accentuate and bring out your own naturally beautiful features? There are two important things to consider here.

Skin Type: The first thing to determine is your skin type. Professional cosmetologists know that each individual has his or her own skin type: dry, oil, or normal. Selecting the perfect type of powder or foundation heavily relies on a client’s skin type. The first step is to determine your type before selecting a foundation.

Foundation Tone and Color: Once you have determined your skin type, the next step is to select a foundation color or tone. This should complement your skin, not hide it or make it look “fake”. You may have to try different tones and colors before finding one that best fits your skin tone. The best way to determine this is to apply the foundation and then look at your appearance in natural light. This will give you a good indication which color and tone looks the most natural and complements your skin tone best.

Brush Type: The other important element to consider when selecting foundation is whether or not you prefer to use a liquid or cream foundation or a powder, in some cases, both. Liquid or cream foundations can do wonders for covering up unwanted blemishes, dark spots or wrinkles, but they can often be heavy on the face. Powders are significantly lighter, but sometimes don’t provide the coverage needed for some.

Find out what type of foundation or powder you prefer and select different brushes that work best. Some are large, small, angled, or fluffy are all great options that work best for powder. Powder is best applied when using a brush and applying powder in circular motions. Remember that whichever brush you choose, make sure you tap it against the side of the jar or sink before applying directly to the face. This will ensure the powder goes on smoother and lighter and won’t leave uneven or discolored areas.

Image credit: © Max Blain | Dreamstime Stock Photos
Written content: © 2013, 2012, 2011, 2010 J.H. Language Solutions

*This topic was written by J.H. Language Solutions for a third party. This article has been altered to fit this blog accordingly.  J.H. Language Solutions in no way assumes ownership of the content above. Topic posted by third party permission. 


Monday, March 4, 2013

Beauty Trends for Spring 2013

The time of year has finally come! It's time to get ready to put away the coats, sweaters, boots, and mittens. It's time to start thinking about Spring...and that means new wardrobes, beauty tips and ideas, and some new styles. Here are some of the hottest beauty trends and tips when looking for your hot, new Spring look!

So what's on tap for Spring 2013? A spring break trip back to the 1990s, anyone? This may not come as a shock to some considering many of the new fashion trends already scream 1992 with skinny jeans, neon colors, and high tops. The beauty trends are now following suit. Love it or hate it, there is a fabulous beauty tip that works for everyone.

This year's spring beauty trends are all about bare and natural, with an extra focus on skin care. Most professional cosmetologists are focusing on skin moisturizers, anti-aging creams, and using natural makeup techniques such as weightless foundations, neutral blush tones, and soft eye techniques.

For those who prefer that extra oomph, bright colors are also trending. Dare to break out the bright blue eye shadow and bright lip colors, such as reds, oranges, pinks, and corals. You can also use a blend between accentuating natural skin tones and go the extra mile with a bright lipstick. It will surely make a statement that says, “I’m natural, beautiful, and stylish.”

If you are looking for a new hairstyle that is fashionable and in, consider a long, stringy look (thank you, Kurt Cobain)...which also goes along with the natural look. Regardless of whether your hair is naturally straight, curly, wavy, or layered, the natural, long look works. Some great hairstyles that work include loose buns, ponytails, or even long, natural waves. Any hairstyle that flaunts stringy or choppy ends will do for Spring.

A long, wavy look, neutral make up tones, bring pink lipstick, and your favorite pair of skinny jeans will look absolutely fab. All in all, this year’s Spring season brings a lot of hot beauty and fashion trends, even if they were originally from twenty years ago.


© Andrew Barker | Dreamstime Stock Photos

Written content: © 2013, 2012, 2011, 2010 J.H. Language Solutions
*This topic was written by J.H. Language Solutions for a third party. This article has been altered to fit this blog accordingly.  J.H. Language Solutions in no way assumes ownership of the content above. Topic posted by third party permission. 

Monday, January 28, 2013

The Five-Minute Make Up Routine


Have you ever had to leave somewhere in a hurry or had to rush out of the house and had absolutely no time to fuss with make up? We've all been there at one time or another. So what do we do when we need to leave in a hurry but need to make ourselves look at least halfway presentable? Perfect your own five-minute make up routine.

So where should you start? If you have to rush out the door and you only have time to apply a few quick techniques, grab your mascara, blush, and lip balm...and your confidence!

  • Mascara. Mascara can help anyone's eyes look more awake and alive, even without applying eyeliner (if they usually do so). It doesn’t take much to liven up those eyes, even if it’s only a brush stroke or two. If anything, less is more...as this can lead to clumping lashes, and will look like you really did get ready in a rush.
  • Blush. Blush is a great way to add some color to your face, even without applying foundation beforehand. If you are worried about covering up blemishes, remind yourself that not only do you typically do not have time to care, but adding color will attract anyone's attention to your bright, beautiful, and colorful cheeks rather than blemishes. This can also work even if you don't apply blush on a regular basis.
  • Lips. Lips are the final piece to the puzzle of complimenting a five-minute make up routine. You      shouldn’t go anywhere without considering a lip balm…even if it’s just Chapstick. Adding shine, color, or a shimmer to lips is always essential. It doesn’t have to be bold; a pale, neutral or earthly tone will do. It's important to stick to light pinks, peaches, beiges, or mauves…depending on your skin tone, color, and features, of course.
  • Confidence. And the final item and ingredient? Confidence. Regardless of where you have to go or what you have to do, don't you dare leave the house without your confidence. Even if you feel self-conscious, or even “naked”, without your usual makeup routine on, remember that natural beauty is where it’s at...and what you always have time for.
The five-minute make up routine can work for anyone, regardless of age or style. Once you have perfected five-minute make up routine, you'll be able to do it in perhaps even less time, and with more confidence.




Image credi© Pamela Hodson | Dreamstime.com

 © 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013 *This topic was written by J.H. Language Solutions for a third party. This article has been altered to fit this blog accordingly.  J.H. Language Solutions in no way assumes ownership of the content above. Topic posted by third party permission. 

Friday, December 21, 2012

How to Treat Scars Naturally



Everyone has scars. They could be from injuries, accidents, surgeries, or even acne. While scars give us character, they can also be embarrassing, or make us self-conscious. So what do you do about it? While there is no real way to get rid of them completely, here are some ways that you can deal with them and help heal them faster and even fade.

·        Cortisone – One way to help treat scars is by using a Cortisone cream. Cortisone creams contain Alpha-Hydroxy Acids that can help with scars and damaged skin tissue. These types of creams can help improve and even sometimes speed up the skin remodeling and healing process. Using a Cortisone cream on early scars improves the chance of scars healing and fading.

Most Cortisone creams can be found over the counter at department stores. However, you can also confide in their health care providers for tips on using Cortisone creams and even to get prescriptions for stronger doses if needed.

·        Cocoa Butter – Cocoa butter is another natural remedy to helping scars. Applying cocoa butter once a day or several times a week can help scars heal and fade. Cocoa butter also helps the appearance of stretch marks. Cocoa butter contains ingredients such as natural antioxidants and natural saturated fats derived from the cocoa bean.

Cocoa butter is an excellent moisturizer which is why it is so popularly used in lotions and other cosmetics. Using a good moisturizer on scars can help them heal quicker and even rejuvenate the skin. Like most Cortisone creams, clients can find cocoa butter over the counter at just about any department store.

·        Avoid Excessive Sunlight – This one may seem like the opposite. Some think that tanning can help scars because it will darker the skin tone and help them fade. Unfortunately, nothing could be further from the truth. In fact, exposing skinto excessive amounts of sunlight, and even artificial sunlight, can be even more damaging. This can slow down the healing process of the skin, and even cause more damage. Remember that you should always use some form of sun protection.

While this may seem like a moot point since the cooler months in most regions are now in full swing, it is still important to wear sun protection, as the sunlight reflects off snow and can be extremely damaging to skin.

·        Vitamin E – All in all, a good rule of thumb to treating and protecting our skin is to load up with Aloe or Vitamin E. Bouts of Vitamin E almost always does the skin good. In fact, most products that we already use contain Vitamin E. Vitamin E is excellent for our skin because of the natural antioxidants and vitamins in it that help protects our skin, moisturizes our skin, and helps keep damaging cells under wraps.

Using a good moisturizer that contains Vitamin E is a great way to help treat scars of any type or size. Be sure to use a good product that contains these elements and that doesn’t contain many artificial chemicals or products as they can often do more harm than good.

These are certainly great suggestions in dealing with troubling scars, especially since most of these are natural remedies. However, if they are looking for a more permanent and extreme approach to treating or ridding scars, talk to your health care providers about the possibility of prescription medications or even surgery.


© Andre Maritz | Dreamstime.com

Written content: © 2010, 2011, 2012, J.H. Language Solutions
*This topic was written by J.H. Language Solutions for a third party. This article has been altered to fit this blog accordingly.  J.H. Language Solutions in no way assumes ownership of the content above. Topic posted by third party permission. 

Thursday, August 23, 2012

What Chemicals Are in Your Beauty Products?


When we get up in the morning, take a shower, do our hair, put on make up, use deodorant or an antiperspirant, have you ever thought of some of the chemicals that could be in those products? Typically we don't think about it. We are too consumed with the happenings of the day: getting the kids ready for school, the things we have to do at work, the meetings we have to attend, or what to do for dinner at the end of the day. Most of us don't even have a chance to read the labels when we go shopping. However, the next time you are at the store grabbing your bathroom or cosmetic items, here are just a few harmful chemicals that are often packaged in beauty products that you should watch out for.

Collagen – All mammals have natural levels of collagen and protein on their skin and in muscle tissue. Most products that contain collagen advertise that they will moisturize skin, however, too much of this chemical can actually do more harm than good. Too much collagen can actually clog skin pores, subjecting us to oily skin, rashes, and even nasty break outs.

Mineral Oil – Mineral oil is a distillation of petroleum used to produce gasoline and other products from crude oil. Much like collagen, any product that contains mineral oil will clog skin pores making them unable to breathe and leaving skin feeling oily. Besides, any product that is used to produce gasoline doesn’t sound like something that we should be using in every day life…especially on our skin!

Laquer – Laquer is a chemical that is often used in mascaras. Many products will advertise that they create long, beautiful eyelashes. However, product labels that contain this chemical actually cause quite the opposite. Laquer has proven to actually cause the thinning or even complete loss of eyelashes. Marketing gimmick or a dangerous product that we shouldn’t be using near our eyes?

Formalin – Formalin is actually used in formaldehyde. If this chemical sounds familiar, that’s because it is the chemical used to preserve dead bodies. Not only does it give us the chills to think we may be using products that contain this kind of chemical, but it can also be hazardous to our health. Formalin fumes are proven to cause breathing and respiratory problems such as asthma and even cancer. It even acts as a skin irritant, which is kind of ironic since many body lotions that are supposed to moisturize contain this chemical and can be irritating or even cause rashes. This chemical can also be found in cosmetic items such as shampoos, hair smoothing products, soap bars, and even body wash.

It's actually quite disgusting to think of the things that could be in the products we use. To some, it might be just as alarming. I know I for one will definitely make this a habit. As a professional, or even just as a human being, you want to use the best products that really are proven to make make us look beautiful but yet are healthy to our faces, skin, and bodies. Most people today who do their weekly grocery shopping are spending more time looking for "green" products, which is a great thing to do. So, if you haven't made it your habit to read labels before purchasing, you owe to yourself, and your body to do so. 








Blog image: © Johanna Goodyear | Dreamstime.com

Written content: © 2010, 2011, 2012, J.H. Language Solutions

*This topic was written by J.H. Language Solutions for a third party. This article has been altered to fit this blog accordingly.  J.H. Language Solutions in no way assumes ownership of the content above. Topic posted by third party permission. 

Monday, June 18, 2012

Health, Beauty, and Fitness for Women On-the-Go

Women are under a lot of pressure. Society pushes and holds women to reach unrealistic and even unhealthy expectations. We have to be beautiful, healthy, slim and slender, and athletic. We must hold down good jobs, have an exciting careers, and be shrewd business women. At the same time, we have to be good mothers, good wives or girlfriends, and still make time for our friends. We have to wear designer clothes, our nails always have to be perfectly manicured, and look great in a bikini. We have to be educated, talented, and respected.

Not only is it exhausting, but it's damn near impossible. Society just has unrealistic expectations. However, there are some areas that are within our control. These three key areas all tie into probably the most important thing, and that is our overall health.

We all lead busy lives today. Gone are the days where women are stay-at-home moms and the ability to support a family on solely one income. As a result, more women than ever are working and even dominating the work force. Women were finally able to find jobs, receive respect, and even work in executive level positions.

While this was a huge accomplishment for women as well as for women's rights, it clearly came with a price. Not only did women finally receive the respect they deserve, but we weren't relieved from our other responsibilities. This could be due to the point mentioned above where families need at least two incomes to make ends meet, or maybe we believe that no one can be better "mothers" than us. Whatever the reason, we've got our word cut out for us.

While our lives are more than demanding, we have to remember how important it is to take time for ourselves. I know you are sitting there thinking, "yeah, right, how?" I thought the same thing. It can be done. Even when you don't think you have one extra minute in the day for anyone or anything, let alone yourself, you'd be surprised how much better you will feel when incorporating these health, beauty, and fitness tips each day.

Health tips: what to eat vs. what not to eat - REALLY.

This is probably one of the hardest habits to break. Since our lives are so on-the-go, it is hard to sit down and eat, let alone cook a good meal; not to mention food costs. It's becoming increasingly expensive to eat healthy. Fresh fruits and vegetables aren't exactly the cheapest foods to buy. However, if you are able to cut some extraneous expenses from your budget, such as eating out or even cable, for example, you'll notice that you are able to put that money towards eating better.

Two pieces of advice in eating right: eat one carb per day (bread, pasta, potatoes, etc.) and cut down on your sodium intake. You'll notice the pounds shedding off if you begin to incorporate these eating habits. It's difficult at first, not going to lie. But once you get in the habit of it, you'll begin to feel great. Your sleep patterns will improve as well as your overall digestive health.

Beauty tips: The essentials: Exfoliation methods, nail care, hair care.

Who has time for beauty? When you are rushing out the door in the morning, struggling to get the kids ready, and making lunches, who has time to do their hair? It's tough, I know. However, if possible, you can incorporate beauty habits at night before you go to bed. The essentials? At least make enough time to wash your face and moisturize. One of the worst things you can do for your face next to not waging sunscreen is not washing about face before bed. If you can exfoliate and moisturize at least once a day, your skin will undoubtedly improve. It will look cleaner, fresher, and younger.

Wrinkles are inevitable, there's no stopping them. But you can help them. Any woman over the age of 25 should be using an age-fighting moisturizer. There are a lot of great exfoliation and age-fighting moisturizers, cleaners, and oer products out there that are relatively inexpensive. Revlon, L'Oreal, and Mary Kay are some of my personal favorites.

Use a mask at least once a week. It takes about one minute to apply to your neck and face and then you can let it sit for about 10 minutes while you put the kids to bed, spend some time talking to hubby, or even while you do some leg lifts or crunches.

Fitness tips: You'd be surprised what twenty minutes per day can do.

So that brings us to fitness. This is probably the hardest one.its hard to find the time to exercise, let alone the energy. However, if you can dedicate twenty minutes per Dayton do some crunches, push ups, or leg lifts, you'll be amazed at how differently you'll feel the next day and the progress you can make after only six weeks.

In addition to your twenty mi uses per day, at least once per week to take yoga class. Not only are they amazing for your body, but they also help reduce stress.

All in all, no one said being a woman was easy. We are unfortunately tied to many responsibilities and expectations. For those women who are dedicated to making a difference in any of these areas...my advice? Perfect the ability to multitask. It may seem inefficient or stupid, but for me, it works. However, at the end of the day, you have to feel good about YOU. Forget society's expectations or cliches. Enjoy being a woman!