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It's New Year time. All of us are set to welcome another year in our own ways. Most of us make resolutions, and also gift ourselves something new to cherish the beginning of a New Year.
Though I am a total failure in making resolutions and keeping it up, I surely do pamper myself by buying something or do whatever makes me feel happy. This time, I decided to pamper myself at a beauty salon. Don't you all agree that treating yourself to a good massage, pedicure/manicure or a good facial is a great way to de-stress and leave behind all your worries and failures.
Well, me and my cousin sister treated ourselves to a nice pedicure and a manicure at a well known beauty spa in town for the New Year's eve. And, on January 1, 2011, we have planned to shop together without anything in mind. Isn't that a great way to welcome the New Year!
Here's wishing you all a Very Happy, Prosperous and Joyous 2011.
Glam dolls in B-town giving up glamour every now and then is not new to us. Of late, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Priyanka Chopra and Vidya Balan are seen sporting de-glam looks clad in sarees and trendy blouses, or so to say backless blouses.
Sarees, especially cotton and silk ones with heavily embellished borders appears to have caught Vidya's fancy. It looks like designers are coming out with trendy, backless blouses with just a strap to tie.
The barely-there blouse has been drawing attention at every event and party our bollywood heroines are attending. That's glamour redefined, I guess!
Looks like our Ambani bahu, Tina Ambani, wife of industrialist Anil Ambani, is reliving her Bollywood days. Looking gorgeous even at the age of 53, Tina stepped out in style for the Big Star Entertainment Awards held recently in Mumbai.
Clad in a black and silver mini skirt with a shimmering gold top, Tina looked more stunning and glamorous than the other leading ladies of Bollywood present at the event. Tina was a successful Bollywood actress in the late seventies and early eighties.
Though Mrs. Ambani is seen socialising a lot and present at every event, we rarely get to see her make a glamorous public appearance like the one she did at the Awards event. I was amazed with her blod dressing sense.
Who says one should look their age! Tina is the perfect example to all the 50 plus women to sport a young and gorgeous look.
Where is the institution of marriage finally heading to? This question, I am sure, has passed all your minds, what with news of break-ups and divorces among celebrities making headlines almost every day.
Break-up in a relationship is seen in all classes of people, but when it is that of a celebrity's, we are all ears. Cheating on one's partner is no more an issue of guilt when caught. For some, it is a matter of pride.
The recent Arun Nayar-Liz Hurley break-up had raised many a brows. But the latest news is that, Hurley is pleading forgiveness with her husband Nayar to take her back after she dumped Aussie cricketer Shane Warne when she learnt that he had sent a series of sex texts to a married woman even as he was having an affair with her.
Everything is definitely fair in love and war, or so it seems. Realtionship, today, is like a merry-go-round. You tend to bounce back to where you started. But will you succeed? Experts and counsellors feel that in such cases, the 'ex' is always found to be the best by those who walked out of a relationship.
Whatever it is, relationships are bound by a thin thread, which can cut off any time for a very silly reason or for a serious issue.
Why worry if your complexion is dark? We have a host of fairness creams - both desi and international brands - which promise to make you look a lot fairer and a new YOU.
As I recall, for decades, women had their loyalty towards Vicco Turmeric and Fair & Lovely - leading fairness creams. I have seen my grand mother, mother and aunts use it very religiously every day. But the thing is, all of them were decently fair in colour, so I could hardly see the difference in their skin become brighter or white  .
With time, more and more number of local and international brands have hit the market, leaving the consumer more confused. The fashion conscious women have became the easy target for cosmetic giants. From creams making you look fairer to those promising to fight wrinkles, age spots, dullness etc. etc., are leaving the women wanting for more. From Ponds to Oil of Olay, Lakme to Nutrogena the list is endless.
To let the secret out, even I have tried almost all brands that promised to make my skin (read skin of all women) fairer, smooth and supple. Having failed to get the results I was looking for, I am now trying one more new product of repute that I picked from a leading super market. Wish me luck that at least this cream will make my face look brighter and leave the skin smooth.
As a leading cosmetic brand says, " loving the skin we're in is the most beautiful feeling of all".
Tags: age spot, dark skin, fair, Fair & Lovely, fairness cream, fashion conscious, Nutrogena, Oil of Olay, Ponds, smooth skin, Vicco Turmeric, wrinkles
Complementing your outfit with a pair of suitable footwear is no easy task. Most of the times, we make bizarre selection of footwear that is unapproved for the outfit you are wearing. This can kill your overall dressing, and all the effort in trying to present yourself the best goes down the drain.
Often our gossip columns make bold comments on such wrong choices made by our B-town ladies. The same applies to us as well. Don't go in for footwear just because it is of a reputed brand, expensive and has good designs. You should first see if the footwear you have selected is comfortable on your feet and it matches your outfit.
Just because you are short doesn't mean you have to wear high-heeled footwear. If you are not comfortable walking with it, you could end up tripping often and sprain your ankle. I have noticed this with many women. If you are short, so be it. You still can carry it off well.
From slip-ons to shoes, loafers to ballerinas, plain sandals to sneakers, and the ankle-length boots, you have a good number of choices to pick. Each one makes your dressing complete when you make the right choice.
When we talk of silk sarees, the first thing that comes to our mind is Kancheepuram, the Silk Town of Tamil Nadu. The richness of the nine-yard wonder, also known as Kanjeevaram sarees, is best seen in the traditional South Indian weddings, where, from the bride to the wedding attendees, everyone competes with one another showcasing the best of their collection.
However, the last few years saw lehengas and gagra cholis replacing sarees for the bride during the wedding reception. However, the ancient, traditional drape is back in style again. These days, the brides in South Indian weddings are preferring sarees for all occasions during their wedding.
Silk weavers are experimenting with rich colour combinations and unimaginable designs that would leave the bride adding more to her collection. What more, the sarees are draped in such unusual styles that it is no less to any designer wear. Sarees, with contrast colour combinations, when draped in new styles look like a two-piece or a three-piece dress similar to a lehenga.
If you are not a saree lover, why don't you try some exclusive silk drapes and enhance your looks! You’ll just fall in love with it.
Whenever I come across articles on looking beautiful and gorgeous, or that of handy beauty tips, I just can't flip to the next page. Though I don't experiment all of those on myself, I like to try it out on friends or just pass on the tips to them. Women, most often, are never satisfied with the way they look. Thanks to cosmetics and make-up, which help us get the look we yearn for.
Well, I came across an article on a website, where the author says that an extra care and attention to your problem areas like eyes, lips, cheeks, nose and forehead will give you the desired result.
Define your eyes - The first step is to define your eyes with a coloured liner. Instead of usual black eye pencil, try brighter shades like blue and green. Even grey looks remarkable on almost everyone. Swipe a glittering white shadow on the inner corners of your eyes in a sideways V shape. Next lock the curve with lengthening mascara.
Your way to Jolie-like plush lips - Apply a colourless lip balm to the skin just above your cupid's bow (the area below your nose and between the peaks of your top lip). This makes the lips look fuller and larger. Open your mouth wide to make an ‘O’ and carefully apply a moisturising lipstick. Now wipe of the balm from the centre of your bottom lip and admire the new you in the mirror.
Chiselled cheeks - To make round cheeks look more chiselled, you need a highlighting powder and a bronzer that's two shades darker than your skin tone. Make a fish face, and dust the bronzer on the hollows of your cheeks. Smile and brush the highlighter from the apples of your cheeks to your temples. The contrasting tones will define and shape the cheekbones for a sexy look.
Get a perfect nose - To wither a larger or wider nose, apply your usual foundation to your nose and swipe a streak of highlighter down the centre of its bridge and back up in a straight line. The light colour squeezed between the foundation-coated skin will make the sides of your nose appear darker and give a slim effect in seconds.
For a smaller forehead - A big forehead may earn you the reputation of being lucky, but unfortunately it doesn’t do much for your looks. Bangs can instantaneously fill the gap between your eyebrows and hairline. But if you don’t want to disturb your hairdo, grab a matte bronzer and a big powder brush. Remember that bronzer creates a shadow-effect, helping a large area appear smaller.
Tags: Angelina Jolie, beauty, cheeks, cosmetics, eye pencil, eyes, lip balm, lips, lipstick, make-up, skin
Dear Friends, let me share a secret in getting a dark burgundy shade when you colour your hair using a natural product.
I was discussing with a friend about the harmful effects of colouring the hair with hair dyes available in the market, with chemicals in them. At the same time, I was also checking on the effectiveness of using henna to get a reddish tinge to the locks. Many a times, you may not get the required shade when the henna powder is of poor quality or when the mixing goes wrong. Then how to get the required reddish or burgundy shade?
She suggested the use of beetroot with henna to get an effective colour similar to that of burgundy. I was surprised!
I was not sure of its effectiveness when she told me. Trust me, it works wonders! I made a mixture of henna with beetroot juice and let it stay overnight. Next morning I applied the henna paste covering all the strands and allowed it to soak for three hours and washed my hair. The burgundy tinge was very evident and it gave a very satisfying result.
Isn't this an easy way to give a lovely burgundy tinge to your hair? Since all the ingredients are natural, what's the harm in trying it out?
I came across this interesting article on Yahoo.com where author Anneli Rufus has compiled a list of 15 warning signs that someone is heading for a divorce. Rufus, who has delved into decades of scientific research to find out the reasons for a divorce, warns you to take care of these warning signs to have a happy married life.
For those of you, who have not read this on Yahoo, I am pasting the same here for your convenience.
Rufus' 15 signs that you are headed towards divorce:
1. If you're a woman who got married before the age of eighteen, your marriage faces a 48 per cent likelihood of divorce within ten years.
2. If you're a woman who wants a child much more strongly than your spouse does, it's twice as likely that your marriage is nearing an end.
3. If you have two sons, you face a 36.9 per cent likelihood of divorce, but if you have two daughters, the likelihood rises to 43.1 per cent.
4. If you're a man with high basal testosterone, you're 43 per cent more likely to get divorced than men with low testosterone levels.
5. If your child has been diagnosed with ADHD, you are 22.7 per cent more likely to divorce before that child turns eight years old than parents of a child without ADHD.
6. If you are currently married but have cohabited with a lover other than your current spouse, you are slightly more than twice as likely to divorce than someone who has never cohabited.
7. If you didn't smile for photographs early in life, your marriage is more likely to end in divorce than if you smiled intensely in early photographs.
8. If your child has died after the twentieth week of pregnancy, during labour, or soon after labour, you are 40 per cent more likely to divorce than if you had not lost a child.
9. If you're a woman who has recently been diagnosed with cancer or multiple sclerosis, your marriage is six times more likely to end in divorce than if your husband had been diagnosed with those diseases instead.
10. If you're a Caucasian woman and you're separated from your spouse, there's a 98 per cent chance that you'll be divorced within six years of that separation. If you're a Hispanic woman, the likelihood is 80 percent. If you're an African-American woman, the likelihood is 72 per cent.
11. If you're a dancer or choreographer, you face a 43.05 per cent likelihood of divorce, compared with mathematicians, who face 19.15 per cent likelihood, and animal trainers, who face 22.5 per cent likelihood.
12. If you're a farmer, you face only a 7.63 per cent likelihood of divorce, joined by other low-risk occupations such as nuclear engineers, who face a 7.29 per cent likelihood, and optometrists, who face a mere 4.01 per cent likelihood.
13. If either you or your spouse has suffered a brain injury, your marriage faces a 17 per cent chance of ending in divorce.
14. If you're an African-American woman, your first marriage has a 47 per cent likelihood of ending in divorce within ten years; for Hispanic women, the likelihood is 34 per cent; for Caucasian women, it's 32 per cent; for Asian women, it's 20 per cent.
15. If you're a woman serving actively in the military, your marriage is 250 per cent more likely to end in divorce than that of a man serving actively in the military.
It’s indeed surprising to hear that Baywatch actress Pamela Anderson wants to age naturally. She has said that she doesn't feel the need to go under the knife for a youthful face.
Nobody would have raised brows if Pamela, who underwent a breast enlargement operation when she was 22 after appearing on the cover of Playboy magazine, did something to her face – like the botox or a cosmetic surgery.
Is 43-year old Pammy dear setting an example for her contemporaries and young celebs to age naturally? Looks so. The actress has also said that she does not put a lot of effort into herself with beauty products and hair care, and she haven’t had a facial for a while. Way to be natural!
It's a good habit to remove all the make-up on your face before going to bed. But you should take care while removing eye make-up as the skin is delicate around your eyes. If eye make-up is not removed properly, it causes blackening of the skin similar to dark circles and also allows formation of wrinkles.
The thumb rule is - before removing the overall face make-up, first remove your eye make-up. Generally, we wash the face with soap and wipe it away or use eye make-up remover and cleanser. But, did you know that you can also reach out to olive oil or Vaseline available at home in case you don't have an eye make-up remover? These are equally effective while removing eye make-up.
It is said that even the Baby oil works wonders. These products available at home are an equally effective alternative to make-up removers and they are also less expensive.
Olive oil and baby oil not only helps in soothing the skin around your eyes, it also leaves it fresh and irritation free.
This is definitely good news for chocolate lovers. As much as you drool over a bar of your favourite chocolate, you also have a reason to feel good as it also helps you fight wrinkles.
According to a recent news item, a new kind of chocolate has been created that apparently slows the ageing process and fights wrinkles. Made by the world’s largest chocolate manufacturer, Acticoa is packed with natural antioxidants, which can protect the skin from damage by harmful free radicals.
Studies also have shown that just consuming 20g of the chocolate a day could help prevent wrinkles by hydrating the skin and improving elasticity.
Chocolate is definitely a weakness among millions, but it does not go well with your health. If consuming 20g a day can help you stay young, health concerns are likely to be considered.
If chocolates can do wonders, why try other expensive options to fight wrinkles and stay young?
A survey conducted by a leading staffing company, Team Lease, feels that style of dressing has a long-term impact on the overall image of an individual.
It indicates that employees who dress well are taken seriously at work than those who pay scant attention to those crumpled sleeves and faded collars. According to the survey, three fourth of the respondents felt that well dressed people are taken more seriously at work place.
Shouldn't we agree at what this survey has revealed? Yes, well dressed and neatly groomed people are taken seriously by their bosses as well as colleagues. It not only builds their overall image but also boosts their confidence.
A neat dress in colours that looks pleasant at work and a minimum make-up with a simple hair style will surely make heads turn.
Beauty experts are talking of Microdermabrasion kits these days. It is said that these kits have dermabrasion properties and helps in exfoliating the skin thus making your skin glow naturally.
Microdermabrasion, also known as chemical peel, is generally done by a reputed dermatologist. But today, noted cosmetic brands have come out with microdermabrasion kits that are easily available in the market. However, how effective are these when used or experimented by one's own self without an expert guidance is a question that goes unanswered.
Microdermabrasion, no doubt, definitely helps in providing the best skin care treatment by giving you a smooth and younger looking skin. It removes dead skin cells and blemishes thus giving a natural glow to your skin.
However, if you are using any such kit for the first time, better do a patch test on your skin before directly experimenting on your face.
Blame it on bad hair days. Your lovely locks tend to look dull and limp during summer days when exposed to severe heat. Though carrying an umbrella or covering your head with a scarf is advised, the regular sweating makes your hair unmanageable.
Most of us refrain from oiling the hair during summer. If you do not wish to leave oil in your hair, getting a good oil massage helps in nourishing your hair and improves blood circulation. Shampooing your hair after a good oil massage and treating it with a good conditioner leaves your hair smooth and silky and you can style it the way you want.
If you hate doing all these at home, you can get your mane pampered at a good Hair Spa which offers a host of nourishing spa treatments.
However, hair experts suggest to cover your hair when you step out in the hot sun and refrain from using hair sprays and gels. Regular washing of hair keeps it clean and manageable. So, decide for yourself if you can get a little helping at home or you want to loosen your purse strings at a Spa.
Tags: conditioner, Hair, hair experts, Hair Spa, head massage, locks, mane, oil massage, shampoo, summer, tresses
We all know that Yoga and Meditation are proven techniques to achieve good health and stay fit. Most yogasanas are based on certain breathing patterns.
Pranayama is one such breathing exercise that helps maintain the wellness of the body and mind. It also helps you fight common diseases like cold and headaches. What is even more important is that you are ensured of a glowing skin.
Another age old form of yoga which defeats any anti-aeging cream and helps you stay young with a radiant skin is Kapalbhati Pranayama. As the name goes, Kapal means forehead and Bhati means glow. If you regularly practise Kapalbhati Pranayama, you are sure to look more beautiful.
Even our Bollywood diva Kareena Kapoor's beauty secret lies in Surya Namaskars and Kapalbhati Pranayama, which she religiously follows every day. Along with your walking and gym workouts, why not try these simple yogasanas which helps you stay fit as well as look beautiful.
Staying fresh and smelling good is as important as looking beautiful and getting a good makeover. But it’s summer time, there’s no escaping the heat. As a result, we sweat a lot. In spite of regular showers, spraying deos often, getting rid of the unpleasant odour from sweating can be a challenge.
According to experts, body odour or ‘ bromhidrosis’, is caused by the bacteria that feeds on the sweaty skin in the armpits. The bacterial decomposition causes the unpleasant smell causing embarrassment when you are in a crowd.
There are many ways to stay dry and beat the body odour. Drinking plenty of water dilutes the sweat. Consuming foods rich in fibre, whole grains, wheat, and green leafy vegetables also helps. Wear loose cotton clothes to soak up the sweat. Avoid synthetics at any cost.
In addition, having frequent showers will no doubt keep you fresh. However, for a long-lasting solution to tackle sweat and body odour, cosmetic treatments like laser removal of unwanted hair in armpits are the best option. Even botox injections help in controlling excessive sweating.
So, get ready to fight that embarrassing body odour and feel good inside and out.
Nothing seems more refreshing than a cold splash on your face during summer months. In addition to washing your face with cold water often, you will enjoy it much more when you rub ice cubes on your face before stepping out in the hot sun and after you are back home tired.
It is a known fact that rubbing ice cubes on your face instantly tones up the skin and closes the pores. Many beauticians also recommend rubbing ice cubes before starting a make-up procedure. Right now, I am rubbing ice cubes on my face to feel cool and refreshed when I step out. As it helps in closing the pores, it is said to be good on the oily skin.
The best way to rub an ice cube is to hold it in a clean handkerchief or a cloth and then gently rub it all over the face and neck. Don't rub it continuously and for long duration as you will feel numb on the skin. A small ice cube will do.
I also read about Song Hye-Kyo, noted South Korean model and actress, acknowledging use of ice cubes as one of her beauty secrets. However, don't over use them as we don't know how your skin would react in the long run when exposed to extreme hot or cold temperatures. I am finding it refreshing to give my skin the ‘cool effect’ this summer.
Tags: ice cubes, cold splash, skin, toning the skin, skin pores, summer, oily skin, Song Hye-Kyo, South Korean model, make-up, beautician
I was shocked to read a news item on high level of lead content in branded lipsticks. A lipstick crazy that I am, could not believe that the so called expensive brands I proudly showcase on my dressing table had high levels of toxic lead.
With Indian women becoming more brand conscious, all major cosmetic brands are flooding the market with a variety of lipsticks in vibrant colours competing with one another.
According to a study conducted by Consumer Education and Research Society (CERS), Ahmedabad, many popular lipstick brands have a high lead content. Some interesting findings were that the luscious reds were less poisonous than the sober browns and the lesser priced lipsticks had less lead than the premium brands.
Of the various brands tested by CERS, brands like Lakme D414 (red) revealed 23 parts per million (PPM) and Ivovi 10 (brown) 25 ppm. The maximum limit laid down by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is 20ppm, but brands are exceeding this limit to 25 ppm.
What was more surprising was that CERS wanted to demolish the myth that costly lipsticks guarantee safety. It was found that lipsticks costing Rs. 10 had lead content ranging from 2 ppm to 17 ppm as compared to lipsticks priced above Rs 100. Isn’t this a shocking revelation?
CERS has also declared that lead does not break down in the body and its presence for longer period can result in learning, language and behavioural problems. Exposure to lead develops infertility and can be dangerous to pregnant women leading to miscarriage.
Like me, most of you must be worried about the health hazards from use of lipsticks as well as on stopping the use of lipsticks. I have been colouring my lips daily for more than a decade. God knows what harm has it caused or will cause! However, I bet it is not that easy to opt for local brands or simply decide to do away with colouring your lips.
There are many ways to silencing bad mouths or expressing one's desire, there are many ways to reveal them or cover them up. And Body Art or getting a Tattoo done is one of the common options most people go in for.
From film stars to sports persons to a common man, we find them sporting different kind of tattoos in simple symbols to intricate designs, famous quotes to names of their loved ones, etched on their body. Among youngsters and college goers, tattoos are more of a fashion symbol than any reason to have them etched on their bodies.
Tattoos on forearms, legs, around the waist or navel is most sought after by young ladies. May be even tattoos add up in boosting one's personality and looks. All said and done, getting tattoos etched from an experienced person is very important. Like looks, even if tattoos can kill, then why not?
Have you heard of body dysmorphic disorder (BDD)? Even I came across this term in an article I recently read in a newspaper. Though this syndrome is known for more than a century, it was recognised only recently by the official psychiatric diagnostic manual.
BDD simply means when one hates a part of one’s body and tries to hide it from others. Most of us go through this syndrome at one time or the other. When we come across or perceive to have some defect of face, skin, hair or body shape, we spend hours in front of the mirror trying to patch up the blemish on the face or trying to fix a bad hair, which only we can see and others may not notice.
Why is it we become overly focused on a perceived defect which may not even exist? Well, all of us want to look good and perfect. People suffering from BDD are often seen taking a look at a mirror or a reflective surface just to ensure that ‘all is well’.
While some go after cosmetic surgeries, some remain secluded trying to hide themselves from public glare. Even worse, some turn to alcohol and drugs to try to cope with the extreme distress.
Why punish ourselves for something unimportant and which may go unnoticed by others. However, there are treatments to help those suffering from this syndrome. And nothing like the effort one makes to overcome their embarrassment and mange it well.
All of us have our idols or role models - in sports, in politics, in movies and many more fields. And for women, who want to be that 'someone' - be it a gorgeous film star, a super model or a well-known socialite - is something seen more seriously than men.
I have known people dreaming of having a slim and curvy body like Shilpa Shetty, that 1,000 watt smile of Madhuri Dixit, the crowning glory of Dimple Kapadia etc. Of late, the trendy hairstyles sported by our new-age film stars are being seriously followed.
After Priyanka Chopra, it’s the turn of lanky lass Deepika Padukone. I read in a magazine that Deepika's new haircut, the one she sported in her latest movie Karthik Calling Karthik (KCK), styled by Farhan Akhtar's hair-stylist wife, has become a rage among youngsters and is the hottest look sought after in salons in Mumbai.
Deepika no doubt looks more chic with that shoulder-length cut. May be the new style goes well with the season. So, if you wanna sport a trendy look, now you know what to opt for!
Tags: Trends, Trendsetters, idols, role models, film stars, super models, socialites, Deepika Padukone, Shilpa Shetty, Madhuri Dixit, Dimple Kapadia, Priyanka Chopra, Karthik calling Karthik, hair style
It’s summer time. It’s also the season of fruits in India where you can treat yourself to juicy fruits like water melons, oranges, grapes, musk melons and the king of fruits ‘mango’.
Summer is the best time to pamper your body from within and outside by consuming all the seasonal fruits and vegetables available. They not only work from within but also help in repairing your skin by giving it a glow like never before.
Yes, east as much melons and oranges as you can. In addition to keeping your body hydrated and making you all the more energetic, they also remove the dullness from your face and make you look fresh all the time. They also help you shed some extra kilos.
Unlike other junk foods, fruits and vegetables are never too much to have. So, help yourself to a good deal of fruit and vegetable servings this summer.
Badam or almond is one of the most nutritious nuts available that works wonders for your body from both within and outside. Rich in Vitamin E, manganese and iron, almond oil is good for application to the skin as an emollient. Since it is mild and light weight with a pleasant smell, almond oil is used as an alternative to olive oil in body massages.
Vitamin E in almonds protects your skin from free radicals, ageing and helps fight blemishes. Compared to various beauty products available over the counter, which have rich source of chemicals, almond oil, also popularly known as Vitamin E oil, is the best beauty miracle one can look for.
In addition to nourishing the skin, it helps fight dark circles, reduce stretch marks and improve your complexion.
Even munching a few almonds during breakfast or coffee breaks will pack your body with the required nutrients and keeps you fresh and energetic.
Almonds in any form, as an eatable or as an oil for skin application, helps your skin look younger by reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and activates skin enzymes for healthy skin.
So, what are you thinking of? Go ahead and treat your skin to the miracle of almonds.
Tags: Almond, almond oil, badam, beauty, blemishes, body massage, dark circles, emollient, free radicals, olive oil, skin, Vitamin E
Having black and shiny locks is any woman's dream. Unlike olden days, not many are lucky today to delay graying. Due to various factors - hereditary, pollution, lack of nutrition, stress, etc. girls can show signs of their mane graying as early as ten years of age.
Talk of multi-tasking women, they would go in for hair dyes, henna and colours in their early 20s itself. Though many wish to age gracefully, signs of early graying is not welcomed.
I know a family in which all the three sisters, now aged over 50, had completely gone gray in their 30s. Hardly could you find a couple of black strands by the time they were 40. Each one of them is in the highest post of their respective professions. Surprisingly none of the three thought of covering their gray strands. They never went in for artificial colors. Even their families supported their stand to ‘stay natural’.
Though they turned completely gray at an early age, the sisters say they have ‘grayed and aged gracefully’.
On the other side, their youngest sister-in-law, a banking official in her mid 30s, is very paranoid about having a single gray visible. "I started noticing a couple of gray hairs when I was just 28. Since then, at least 30 percent of my hairs have turned gray. Basically, I feel awkward to show my grays, hence I colour them regularly," she said.
Though one cannot stop your mane from graying, at least believe in grandma's secret. " Regular oiling of hair controls graying at an early age". This may not prove true in all cases as many factors contribute to your hair turning gray. Whether gray or not, maintain healthy and silky tresses. If you naturally have them, then flaunt it best and make heads turn.
Word of caution: Go in for colours from reputed companies or use natural colours if at all you need to beat those grays!
Tags: Gray hairs, mane, Hair, tresses, locks, hair colors, henna, hair dye, aging gracefully, hair oil, multi-tasking women
It was a great time spent at my cousin's wedding recently. We all had great fun and enjoyed to the fullest with best of the best compliments for all the women parading at the wedding. All the gorgeous looking ladies (including me!) were in their best attire and beauty personified. It was 'Hi', 'Hello' and 'You are looking so good' – kind of compliments from the known as well as unknown faces.
As we had drowned in the compliments and attention each one of us was receiving, there walked a set of ' white beauties' - each one no less than a Hollywood celebrity. Even we dropped our jaws and stood looking at them. The bunch of young ladies - Americans, British and Japanese - had come to India to attend their friend’s wedding (my cousin).
What was so special about them was that each one of them had dressed from top to toe in the true traditional Indian style- in silk sarees, matching glass bangles, chokers, ear hangings, different hair dos (buns and braids) and sporting big bindis. Less did these beauties knew that dressing up in the traditional Indian style would enhance their looks and beauty a million times making hundreds of heads turn.
We were also surprised to see the married ones wearing mangalasutra (black beads) and toe rings. All these girls had planned well in advance to look very Indian at the wedding. "Now I know why Indian women look so graceful and beautiful in their traditional attire. I just can't believe that I look so different and graceful. I am just loving myself," Janet, an American said.
Beauty, no doubt, lies in the eye of the beholder. But, our rich tradition and culture makes any woman look beautiful and all eyes envy the beauty.
If you want to sport that killing look and project a personality that is most talked after, then you have to be dressed best from top to toe. Dressing best does not just mean wearing a gorgeous attire with befitting accessories. You also need to pay attention to every part of your body and maintain it well all times.
Clean and neatly filed nails speak a lot about the person you are. Just painting your nails with the colour of your choice will not do the trick. In the first place, the nails have to be properly groomed by filing and buffing. Make it a point to follow a regular nail care regimen like trimming, filing, buffing and moisturising the nails with nail cream and cuticle creams.
If you love getting a professional manicure and pedicure done, then head to a beauty salon to pamper your hands, feet and also your nails. From French Manicure to chocolate manicure, you have a plenty of options to choose from.
What more? You also have nail bars where you can get your nails decorated with intricate designs. Nail decoration has not only caught the fancy of college-goers and models, even you can get it done. If you haven't tried it, then you should visit the nail bar at the nearest salon once.
Most of us complain of brittle nails which crack or chip in the edges. In such cases, it is better to keep the nails short and always colour them with a good nail polish. To have healthy and strong nails, regularly consume food items that are rich in vitamin A and calcium.
So, get ready to 'nail' your overall look and personality.
We all spend enough time in selecting the best attire, choosing the right make-up, matching accessories and a stylish foot wear to go with. But most of the times, we tend to neglect our tresses. Why not invest a little time in taking care of our hair every day?
I do agree that not all of us are lucky to be born with great hair. But we can still follow some simple and easy ways at home to have a lustrous hair.
It is important to nourish your hair from both inside and outside as well. A well-balanced diet will take care of your hair's health. Instead of craving for chocolates or wafers, carry a handful of almonds and walnuts with you every day. Eat a few of them when ever you feel the need for a quick bite. The omega-3 fatty acids in almonds and walnuts work wonders for your skin as well as hair.
To improve your hair quality and strength, follow the simple grandma's recipe – regularly oil your hair. Yes, a good oil massage will give your hair a good health. Rub warm coconut oil on your scalp with your finger tips and give a gentle massage. Apply oil to your hair length as well as the tips. After the massage, wrap your hair with a thick towel wrung in hot water. This leaves your hair well nourished.
In addition, follow these basic rules: a) don’t use too much chemicals in the form of hair colours and hair sprays. b) Don't expose your hair to harsh sun rays. Always use an umbrella or cover your hair when you go out in hot sun. c) Detangle you hair with a wide tooth comb; brush it gently and tie it up loose before going to bed. d) Never tie your hair tight.
These simple tips help you manage your mane with out much burden on your pocket. It also helps in maintaining a great, healthy hair. A good hair also adds to your good looks!
When it comes to fighting skin ailments, most of us go in for natural/home remedies for the simple reason that they cause no side effects and are harmless. However, you will be surprised to know that some products available in our kitchen for day-to-day use, which are used as natural remedies, can do more harm than good if not used with care.
A beautiful face, at times, looks bad or ugly with acne, warts and freckles. One has to be careful while trying out home remedies in getting rid of them.
Garlic has immense therapeutic properties and is used as a natural remedy in treating many ailments including acne and warts on the face. Since the skin on our face is very sensitive and tender, applying garlic paste on the affected area may result in burning of the skin if kept for long hours or overnight.
Garlic contains Sulfenic acid which breaks down into Allicin, a very strong chemical. Thus keeping garlic paste for prolonged periods leads to chemical burn.
A reader of a local magazine, who had shared this painful news, had suffered severe chemical burn on the face while attempting to treat flat warts with garlic. In turn, while getting treatment for the burns, she was forced to stay indoors avoiding exposure to sunlight and avoid using soaps and cosmetics for two to three weeks by her dermatologist.
The discoloration of the skin on the burnt area stayed on for long leaving her to grieve each day when she looked at the mirror.
Isn't this a lesson for all of us who jump at trying out natural remedies with out knowing the pros and cons of it? Better be safe than sorry!
If any of you have faced similar situations, kindly share with us and enlighten us!
The secret to American super model Cindy Crawford’s flawless skin is a Melon. Yes, going by a TV commercial I recently saw, Cindy has been using a melon-extract based skin maintenance formulation created by one of leading cosmetic surgeons from Europe.
According to the information available, the patented melon extract developed by the cosmetic surgeon is taken from a rare form of ‘ cantaloupe charentais’ (muskmelon), which is grown only in the South of France.
Cindy admits that she has been enjoying flawless, wrinkle-free and younger looking skin for more than 10 years using the melon-extract based products. At 41, her skin really looks young and youthful. In addition to health benefits, the cantaloupe, which is rich in Vitamin C and antioxidants, promises to take care of your skin too.
Most of us may not be able to buy those expensive products and serums made out of melon extracts. But we can surely include a lot of melon in our diet and see if it works!
We have heard enough of Botox treatments, cosmetic surgeries and face lifts. Going under the knife by Hollywood stars and celebrities is not a new thing. The latest news is that noted Hollywood star Angelina Jolie may have undergone 'Ribbon Lift'.
According to media reports, Jolie was seen with plastic surgery marks on her neck while shooting for her next movie in Venice. Going in for cosmetic surgeries to hide one’s age and have a younger looking and wrinkle-free skin has caught the fancy of Hollywood. Well, it takes everything to stay on top in the entertainment industry.
What is Ribbon Lift procedure?
The procedure involves making an incision behind the ear and placing a bio-absorbable Endotine Ribbon to hold the muscle back and allow the surgeon to tighten loose skin. The bio-absorbable ribbon has tiny hooks on it that attaches itself to the muscle and tissue under the skin. When the tube is pulled up, it lifts the entire facial area.
It is also said that the secret behind Madonna’s wrinkle-free skin is also the Ribbon Lift procedure which costs 4,000 pounds. With the entertainment industry getting bigger and richer day-by-day, the demand for the leading ladies to look young and beautiful is also on the rise. I wonder how many such cosmetic surgery procedures we will be exposed to.
Some of us are born beautiful and some of us are made beautiful! True, isn’t it? While natural beauties don’t need much of a make up, the not so beautiful ones would have to dab a bit of this and that to look beautiful. Why not? It is every woman’s wish and dream to look beautiful.
It is not only celebrities or professionals; even the modern day house-wife is indulging in wellness and beauty treatments. However, not many would want to visit a beautician to get a makeover. They straight away buy cosmetics over the counter and try their creativity in make-up - to feel gorgeous at the end of it!
However, not everyone would succeed in laying their hands on the right beauty products that jus suits them. In many cases, the result is bizarre.
Follow these simple rules to make a careful selection of the cosmetics:
• Buy creams and moisturizers depending on the skin type – dry, oily or a combination skin
• Always test the product and colours to suit your skin tone.
• Go in for a undertone if you are buying a foundation
• For lipsticks, go in for colours that enhance your look. Take the liberty of trying out the testers
• You can line your eyes best in black. If your are opting for coloured eyeliners, trying it out before you get them billed
I know these are not new things to any of you and nor am I giving any gyan here. This came out of a discussion when my friend, who has a wheatish complexion, went in for the wrong products and colours. Not only did her choice made her feel sad, it also burnt a huge hole in her wallet.
The sales girl at an upmarket super mall, which sells all [/B]branded cosmetics, too misled her. Attendants at these counters do not always help you select the products in your skin tone’s favour. The best way is to try out the product on yourself and see if suits you.
Going a step further, a beauty expert’s advice can do the wonders.
Celebrities, film stars, models or leading business ladies, most of them, today, stand by yoga and meditation in unravelling the secret of their inner as well as outer beauty.
Hectic work schedules, juggling between family and professional responsibilities, extensive travels, leaves them with no time to calm their senses and look fresh all the time. No doubt, the personal beauticians, cosmetics and makeovers gives one all the radiance, but what is unnatural will not stay for long.
Yoga, breathing exercises and meditation soothes the nerves and improves blood circulation, which is vital in keeping your system healthy from within and outside as well, giving you a fresh look. Yoga and meditation helps in getting sound sleep, which again, results in a glowing face.
Yoga and meditation has helped many women get rid of dullness on their face, reduce dark circles and puffed eyes. They look fresh and healthy all through the day; A natural way to glow from within.
Setting aside at least an hour for yoga and meditation can surely work wonders on one's overall wellbeing, isn't it?
The lustrous locks of Shilpa Shetty, the silky tresses of Aishwarya Rai, the stylish and trendy hairstyles of Priyanka Chopra – all these leading ladies in Bollywood have been creating magic with their soft and sizzling mane. Their healthy and bouncy hair is no doubt a best bet for manufacturers of hair care products.
There are many of us not blessed with such lustrous hair to be envied. But when we see these beauties swishing their silky-shiny hair in movies or advertisements, we all would dream of having luxurious locks like them. A good hair definitely adds to one’s beauty and looks.
Anyways, instead of feeling sad you can create a new look for yourself by getting a bit bold and creative. Yes, you can have a bouncy hair, a new style or just add length to your short hair. It’s very simple. Go in for imported wigs and hair extensions that are available in different colours and styles at affordable prices.
A beauty expert can help you choose the one that suits your face. However, exercise caution to go in for a quality product and pick it up from a trusted salon or a seller. Pick those that do not let you sweat when worn for long. So why wait? Go in for your pick and feel ‘you are worth it’.
Having a great complexion, smooth and wrinkle-free skin is any woman’s dream. Cashing in on this dream are the cosmetics manufacturers who roll out products after products every season.
It’s promises galore, through out. A fairness cream would make you fairer in just few weeks; another product helps you fight wrinkles and age spots within few days, etc. etc. To make it loud and clear, our celebrities endorse the product.
All these years, one question has always bogged me. Why are companies manufacturing cosmetics show a beautiful woman, a celebrity of course, having a glowing spot-less skin, in their advertisements? Celebrities, film stars or models, would anyways look good and have a great skin thanks to the cosmetic surgeries they undergo and a regular makeover. Why not show an ordinary looking woman with a dull skin and who really did benefit form these products.
I am not completely disproving the benefits of many of these products. Reputed and expensive products have shown the desired results with regular usage. But many local products, be it a fairness cream, moisturizer or even a beauty soap, promise things that are far from truth.
In spite of such debates and discussions even I go after reputed brands, not because some celebrity endorsed it but to really test the product for its authenticity. I am sure; most of you would be doing the same. Many of my friends have laughed at me when I discuss this issue. Ultimately it is how you look that matters after using various products available over the counter.
Companies can cheat you, you can cheat the people around you, but can you cheat the mirror which reflects you as you are!
Tags: skin, beauty, complexion, cosmetics, beauty products, fairness creams, wrinkles, age spot, Cosmetic surgery, Makeover, celebrities, models, film stars
I am not telling you anything new here. Most of you are aware of tomatoes being used in skin care. Despite investing in expensive skin care products, most of us give a thumbs-up to home-made remedies.
I love tomatoes especially eating it raw and in salads. Now, I have started to like them on my skin as well. Though I was aware of the magical effect of tomatoes on skin, I had never tried it. Taking a cue from a friend, even I have started pampering my skin with tomatoes.
Tomato is an excellent astringent and works wonders on oily skin. Rich in Vitamin C it also soothes your skin and gives an instant glow. You can try various combinations of it by mixing fresh tomato juice with lime, milk and honey respectively. Apply the mixture on your face and wash it off after 15 minutes.
However, try which mixture works out best on your skin and apply it regularly for best results. A simple tomato facial works wonder on any skin. Cut a ripe tomato into half or make thick slices and rub it on your face. Leave it on for 10 minutes. Then rinse with cold water and see the difference on your skin. Isn't this quick and easy?
Winter has not yet gone completely. But days are getting hotter, an indication for the sensitive skin to get protection against the UV radiation. Since I am prone to getting tanned when I go out in the sun, I was looking for a good sunscreen for daily use.
I happened to meet up with a dermatologist at an event. As I was talking to him, I told him about my skin being very sensitive when exposed to sun. Like a novice, I asked him about the effect of sunscreens. But I was shocked with his replies.
He was very much against the use of sunscreens available over the counter (OTC). “No matter which ever brand it is, do not use them daily like other creams,” is what he suggested. And the topic on sun protection factor (SPF) rating in these creams was also brushed aside.
The doctor said that use of sun screening compounds in most creams and lotions, which boast of high SPF ratings, will cause side effects when used regularly. He also cited examples of skin cancer in people who regularly used sunscreen lotions.
“Not all sunscreens cause harm, but most of them do. Not all the products available on the shelves give protection against UV radiation. One must be very careful when you go in for regular use of such creams,” is what this noted dermatologist said.
I was really scared with what he said. His simple suggestion was to avoid direct exposure to sun light. “Always carry an umbrella. Wear clothes that cover your hands fully. Use gloves. This will work best to an extent,” he said.
In case you can’t carry an umbrella everywhere, and you ride a two-wheeler, then you may need a sunscreen. If so, buy one after consulting your dermatologist. In addition to the ones available under known brand names, there are some which are less heard of but prescribed by doctors. Now I am using the one suggested by this dermatologist. And I am asked to use it only when I go out in the sun, not as a regular cream or moisturizer for daily use.
Lack of knowledge, sometimes, can cause more harm. A chance meeting with him helped me in many ways. I am sure there will be a mixed reaction to this piece of information. Most of you may say that the sunscreen you have been using for years has worked wonders for you. At the same time, many of you may start thinking like me and see a doctor soon.
All said and done, let us all pray for a healthy skin and vouch on the product we use, to be safe!!
Are you wondering what is it that I am talking about? Well, I was surprised to read that a 21-year Chinese girl is seeking extensive plastic surgery to look like Hollywood celebrity Jessica Alba, in a bid to win back her boy friend.
Sounds crazy? The truth is that her boy friend always wished she looked more like Alba. Unable to take his Alba obsession, which became too much, this Chinese girl broke up with her boy friend. But now she wants him back, and how? By going under the knife for multiple surgeries including getting her eyes and nose altered at a plastic surgery hospital in Shanghai, which has agreed to do it free for her.
Whether she gets back her boy friend or not, she will be a lucky girl to have the looks of Alba. When she sought help in this regard on a local web forum, it is said that many bloggers have adviced her against cosmetic surgery, but she has to decided to go in for the makeover.
Where are we heading to? Is winning back a lover reason enough to lose one's natural face, which is a reflection of your true self. Assuming she wins back her boy friend, there are chances that he may get obsessed to another celebrity and wished she looked more like her. Then where is the end to it.
One thing is for sure, beauty and glamour makes or mars a person's life. In this case, what is advantageous to one, proved a challenge to the other.
If you ask me, I am not in support of the girl's determination to alter her looks? Please do share your thoughts with us. However, let's wish the Chinese girl all the luck!
Image makeover - is not an alien term in the present times with both young and adults becoming more fashion conscious. The innumerable cosmetic brands of repute on the shelves stand testimony to the huge market we are contributing to.
No doubt the Internet, books, beauty salons and make-up experts guide you with what suits you best. Going a step further, workshops and training sessions have made the guide to 'personal grooming' more easier, where you will become an expert in deciding what looks good on you.
A noted fashion and image consultant from Bangalore is holding a two-day workshop on 'wardrobe styling and image makeover' in the city from Feb 5. The workshop is aimed at helping the attendees with identifying their color profile, style profile, lifestyle, body style and career in order to help them find a new face and personality.
The workshop also helps in personal shopping, with a visit to a shopping center to figure out what suits one best, it will also speak of hair care and cuts to suit the personality and contours of the face, skin care according to skin type along with choosing the right shade of color cosmetics. Isn't this a one-stop-shop for all the beauty and glamour knowledge one looks for ?
According to a friend, the number of ladies enrolled for this workshop has surpassed the numbers limited. This is proof enough - any thing that speaks on fashion, beauty and glamour, really sells.
If I happen to talk to any of the attendees, I will share more details with you all on the learnings she has had from this workshop. Who knows, there may be some beauty tips and advice for us as well!
Recently I came across an article which revealed that youngsters, who have just stepped into their teens, are making a beeline to cosmetic surgeons to have a beautiful face or get that killing look they are dreaming of. We regularly hear that our celebrities are going under the knife for nose jobs, correction of jaw lines, forehead lifting etc. So, the inspiration comes from many quarters for these youngsters.
When we look back how we looked in our teens and how we changed when we entered the 20's group, haven't we grown from looking better to best? During the growing years of teenage, your face changes, complexion improves, you grow tall, body structure alters - you grow to be a new and beautiful young woman altogether. So, what's the hurry for teenagers to go in for cosmetic surgeries? However, the question is how safe it is to go in for an altered, cosmetic look at such a young age. Is anyone talking about the side effects or after effects of such makeover surgeries and corrections?
Wonder if our teenagers want to remain in their teens for ever!
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