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5 Best Foods That Prevent Acne & Dark Spots

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Skin juggles a demanding workload as your body’s largest organ. It not only makes a first impression, it also faces an onslaught of outside aggressors every day, like damaging sun rays and urban pollution. While daily facial cleansing encourages acne-free skin by removing dirt and oil buildup, eating foods rich in key nutrients means health from the inside out.

1. Power Berries

Next time you make a smoothie, go heavy on the colorful berries and your skin will thank you. Blueberries, blackberries and strawberries are high in vitamin C, vitamin K, folic acid and tannins. That blend of immune-boosting ingredients encourages collagen production and limits inflammation, which means better cell turnover and brighter skin. Skin cells also need a regular boost of regenerative vitamin C, which stops dark-spot-inducing free radicals—from sun damage and dry skin—in their tracks.

2. Tomato Protection

These juicy dietary staples contain a slew of skin-protective and healing properties. They deliver a healthy dose of vitamin A, which is a crucial nutrient required for producing healthy new skin cells to replace old or damaged ones. Tomatoes also contain high levels of vitamin C, which fights off free radicals and encourages higher collagen production; meaning skin heals more efficiently and keeps age spots at bay. Tomatoes also contain lycopene and beta-carotene, both of which help protect skin against free radicals from sun damage and the resulting of dark sunspots.

3. Go Nuts

Dry skin comes with a laundry list of problems, including inflammation and skin cell damage, which can leave behind unwanted discoloration and make skin more vulnerable to breakouts. Fortunately, a healthful intake of nuts, like almonds, walnuts, pistachios and pecans, can give your skin a lift. These little nuggets are packed full of healthful, essential fatty acids, which help skin create a protective barrier against outside acne-inducing intruders and keep skin moist and supple. Finally, nuts deliver a punch of fiber, protein and phytosterols, which help skin to repair more effectively as it turns over.

4. Omega Nutrition

If you’re a fan of salmon, tuna and mackerel, then you get a boost of omega-3 fatty acids every time you indulge in your favorite piece of fish. Omega-3 fatty acids reduce inflammation throughout the body. They also keep skin hydrated and encourage healthy circulation. These three elements work together to keep cell turnover high and inflammation low, which reduces the appearance of dark spots. They also keep skin hydrated, which builds a natural defense against acne and discoloration.

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Also read  4 Surprising Benefits of Oily Skin

 

4 Surprising Benefits of Oily Skin

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Oily skin might not seem like much of a blessing when you’re digging for the blotting papers or powdering your nose every few hours. But skin with highly productive oil glands isn’t all about struggling with breakouts and mattifying products. The benefits of oily skin include more resiliency and extra vitamin E production—just to name a few.

1. Oily skin is usually thicker and smoother.

Oil alone may not be enough to prevent wrinkles from forming, but active sebaceous glands may offer another benefit that could help keep skin smooth. People with oilier skin can have overproducing sebaceous glands, larger glands or an abundance of sebaceous glands. This can contribute to a thicker inner skin layer, or dermis, which makes your skin more resilient in areas where the deepest lines can form, particularly the forehead.

2. Oily skin enjoys more natural sun protection.

The oil that your skin produces contains vitamin E, which acts as a natural sunscreen and antioxidant battling free radicals. Consider it a boost instead of a replacement for sunscreen; vitamin E molecules can absorb some UV rays, but not all. Vitamin E is also anti-inflammatory, so you may find your skin is more able to weather the elements. Be sure to put on a sunscreen suitable for oily skin before exposure to rays.

3. Oily skin is more resistant to wrinkles.

Your friends with dry skin are constantly reaching for heavy emollient products to ward off creeping fine lines. But does having the polar-opposite skin type mean that you’re less prone to wrinkles? Researchers have found that wrinkles are shorter and shallower in areas with sebaceous glands that produce oil. That doesn’t mean you’re off the hook for wrinkle prevention. Not all areas of the face are equal in oil production, and researchers aren’t sold on oiliness alone preventing signs of aging. Pick a light moisturizer formulated for oily skin instead of skipping an anti-aging routine.

4. Oily skin requires smaller amounts of skin care products.

When your moisturizing routine consists of dabs instead of slathering, you’re naturally going to save on products. People with dry skin often must constantly reapply products to quench a parched epidermis and relieve irritated skin. Products for oily skin are all about a light touch—a few dots of moisturizer, a few touches of oil-free foundation and just enough cleansing to keep your skin in balance.

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Also read  6 Skin Care Ingredients That Work Well Together (and 6 That Don’t)

This 4-Step Nighttime Skin Routine for Clear Skin

As a skin care enthusiast, there’s nothing better than unwinding after a long day and pampering my skin. And because our skin cells regenerate in the evening, this is prime time to focus on restoring it.

For my nighttime skin care, my basic routine looks like this:

  • cleanse
  • treat
  • hydrate
  • moisturize

While I stick to this routine daily, I do switch the products from time to time, depending on how my skin is feeling on that particular day. I also like to keep my routine fun but mindful — read more about this below.

 Cleanse

To start off, I always make sure that I’m working with a properly cleansed face. Cleansing is very important but often overlooked. Removing all the excess dirt and sebum from our face is crucial for the next step of our skin care routine to absorb .

Oil cleanser

Whenever I’m using any base makeup product — think BB cream, foundation, or concealer — I like to start by removing them with an oil cleanser. I found this step is the easiest and gentlest way to melt off all the base makeup from my face.

Water-based cleanser

On days where I don’t wear any makeup, I’ll jump right to this step. One thing to remember is that this product should be gentle, shouldn’t irritate your eyes, and shouldn’t leave your skin feeling tight and dry. It should rinse off easily and effectively remove dirt and grime from your skin.

Read More..

Also Read: Put Your Best Foot Forward DIY Foot Mask

High Protein Diet: How To Make Flaxseed, Walnut And Banana Smoothie For Weight Loss

High Protein Diet: If you are trying to lose extra kilos in a certain amount of time, you must know that eating a broccoli here, a bite of avocado there is not going to be of much help. While it is always a good idea to include healthy foods in your diet, you also need a clean diet plan to stick to. You may also have to make some hard decisions like giving up on junk food, processed goods, sugar et al.

Bananas dense nutritive profile is also very impressive. They are excellent for managing heart health, water retention and weight loss too.

How to Make Protein-Rich Flax-Walnut Banana Smoothie:
Ingredients:

2 Bananas

1/4th cup of walnuts, roughly chopped

  • 2 tsp flaxseeds

Method:

1. Take a blender and blend all ingredients until smooth. You can also add a teaspoon of honey for taste. Or make it more wholesome with a teaspoon of oats .

Walnuts on the other hand are also a decent source of protein and a very good source of omega 3 fatty acids. Enriched with a range of antioxidants, walnuts helps promote weight loss, decrease inflammation and boost gut health.

Flaxseed is said to be one of the best sources of plant-based protein. Did you know 100 grams of flaxseeds contain 18 grams of protein? It is also enriched with heart-healthy omega 3 fatty acids, fibre and lignans.
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Also Read: Put Your Best Foot Forward DIY Foot Mask

Mango Face Packs: 5 DIY Ideas For A Healthy Skin This Summer

Face Packs: The season of mango is here! Who doesn’t love eating mangoes; especially when you have varieties of mangoes to choose from? Mango is aptly nicknamed as ‘the supreme summer fruit,’ as it helps to prevent heat stroke during those hot months of the year. Other than that, it is rich in vitamin-A, vitamin-C and minerals like copper, potassium and magnesium.

1. For Exfoliation

Face Packs: As we all know that exfoliation is extremely important for our skin, as it helps to remove the dead cells from our skin. And, using a mango scrub will help us in doing same. All you need is 1 tablespoon mango pulp, 1 teaspoon of organic honey and 1 tablespoon of milk. Mix these ingredients well and apply it on your face. Leave it for 10 minutes. Rinse it off with cold water and feel the softness in your skin’s texture.

2. For Glowing Skin
Mangoes have natural anti-tanning properties and vitamins that fight against inflammation and sun burns. For this face pack, you will need 1 tablespoon of mango pulp, 2 teaspoons of wheat flour and 1 teaspoon of organic Honey. Mix all the ingredients together to make a thick paste. Apply it on face and sun-affected parts. Let it stay on for 15 minutes and wash with normal water.

3. For Tanned Skin

We all have tried numerous anti-tan packs, but still haven’t achieved those desired results. Don’t worry, as we have got another face pack to your rescue! This anti-tan mango face pack is extremely effective.

Read More..

Also Read: Put Your Best Foot Forward DIY Foot Mask

8 Makeup Tricks For a Slimmer Face

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Today we’ll show you 8 makeup tricks for a slimmer face! If for whatever reason, you believe your face is too “round” or chubby, and you’d like a slimmer look, makeup can definitely do that! Think of your face as an art canvas: you can pretty much do anything! And no, you don’t have to be a makeup guru to achieve this! These are simple makeup tricks that’ll have you looking fab in no time!

Makeup Tricks to get a Slimmer Face

#1. Darker Colors Are Slimming

Just like with clothing, darker colors are slimming! Dark shades recede, while light shades bring features forward! Think about investing in a contouring kit or a bronzer to slim certain features. Always choose a cream or powder that is two shades darker than your skin tone and a highlighter that’s one shade lighter than your skintone.

#2. Create an Illusion

To create the illusion of slimmer cheeks, apply your contour shade (above) in a diagonal line from the center of your cheek up towards the ear. Make a pucker face aka fish face while you’re doing this, so that you can perfectly find the placement. Don’t forget to blend really well! Also, the higher you place your contour shade, the sharper your cheekbones will look. Finish it off by applying a highlighter across the top of your cheekbones to bring out the contour.

#3. Fake a Thinner Nose

 fake a thinner nose, apply your contour shade down the sides of the bridge of your nose, stopping right before the nostrils. Apply a small amount of highlighter down the bridge of your nose to finish it off.

#4. Define the Jaw Area

Most people are looking to get the jaw area thinner, so apply your contour shade or a bronzer along the jawline and blend well. This will give the illusion of an overall slimmer face and jaw area. No double chin here!

#5. Go Big on the Eyes

To draw attention away from a full face, emphasize the eyes by making them look bigger. Click here to learn how to make small eyes look bigger.

#6. Choose the Right Brow Shape

Choosing the right brow shape is crucial to any face shape, but if you want a slimmer looking face, a high arched brow will always do the trick! Visit your salon to get this done and you’ll see a huge difference! Read more

Also read: Garlic for Hair Growth: How it Works

Garlic for Hair Growth: How it Works

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How does garlic for hair growth work? Hair loss and thinning are usually caused by a deficiency in the body, so how can garlic replenish that? We know that garlic in nail polish works to strengthen nails, but what can it do for your hair and how exactly does it work? We’re here to answer all of these questions and more! Keep reading to find out how garlic for hair growth works, how to use it, and why you should!

As we already know, garlic is an essential part of most dishes and most cultures. It adds flavor, it’s good for you, and it’s one of the most widely used vegetables in the world. But did you know that in many cultures, and for thousands of years, garlic has been used as a medicinal ingredient? Known for its powerful antiseptic and antimicrobial properties, garlic can cure a number of ailments, including – you guessed it – hair loss and hair thinning!

According to a study that was published in the Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venerology, and Leprology, applying a five percent garlic gel to the area of hair loss will help hair to regrow. This is because garlic contains selenium and sulphur, which help fortify the hair’s structure. This means that garlic can not only regrow hair, but also strengthen it. Those with hair loss and thin hair can greatly benefit from the amazing properties of garlic.

Benefits for Hair

  • Antimicrobial: that antimicrobial properties of garlic help to kill germs and bacteria, which are responsible for causing scalp issues, and therefore hindering growth.
  • Rich in Vitamin C: Vitamin C is found , and as such, can help boost collagen production which stimulates hair growth.
  • Rich in Selenium: As we mentioned above, garlic is rich in selenium which helps boost blood circulation. This in turn helps with hair loss and thinning hair.
  • Cleanses: Garlic helps to cleanse the hair and scalp, meaning there is more opportunity for hair growth because it unclogs pores.
  • Treats Dandruff: Garlic has properties that not only can help hair grow but can also stop dandruff in its tracks!
  •  is garlic good for hair growth then? The answer is absolute yes! There are a few different ways you can incorporate garlic into your life not only to help with hair growth but treat a number of different ailments. Garlic supplements are easily available to purchase and they can help cure a common cold, lower cholesterol, and reduce the risk of heart disease.

    If you don’t consume enough garlic, a garlic supplement may be the answer for you! Additionally, you can also purchase garlic ointment which can be applied topically to the skin, as well as to the hair, especially where hair loss is prevalent. Lastly, you can make your own garlic concoctions which can be applied to the scalp to treat dry scalp, dandruff, and hair loss and hair thinning. Let’s take a look at some of these homemade garlic hair recipes!

    Hair Mask Recipes

  • Honey Hair Mask for Growth

    This combination of garlic combined with honey is truly a powerhouse to combat microbes and fungus. It’s especially great for those who suffer from scalp issues and can help promote hair growth when used on a regular basis.

    In a mortar and pestle add a few cloves and a teaspoon of honey. Mash until it becomes a paste-like consistency. Alternatively, you can also use a food processor to make the paste. Apply all over scalp and hair and leave on for at least 30 minutes. Rinse out and follow up with a natural shampoo and conditioner. Use 2-3 times a week for several months.

    Coconut Oil & Garlic

    This coconut oil and garlic hair mask are perfect for those with dry hair, as the coconut oil gently hydrates and moisturizes a dry scalp, while the garlic promotes growth and health.

    Grab a few garlic cloves and mash them well. To that, add a little bit of coconut oil to make a paste. Apply all over scalp and hair and massage gently for several minutes. Leave on for at least 30 minutes. Rinse out and follow up with a natural shampoo and conditioner. Use 2-3 times a week for several months.

     Infused Oil

    Not to be confused with garlic essential oil, simply garlic cloves that have been added to the oil. You can add several crushed cloves to any carrier oil of your choices such as olive oil or coconut oil. Let this mixture infuse for a night or two and apply it to the scalp and hair. Massage gently into the scalp for about 5 minutes. Leave on for at least 30 minutes. Rinse out and follow up with a natural shampoo and conditioner. Use 2-3 times a week for several months. Read more

Also read: How to Make Micellar Water

How to Make Micellar Water

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Have you ever heard of micellar water before? If not, we’re in the same boat – we actually never knew anything about it until a few weeks ago! According to beauty lovers, micellar water is a must have beauty product in anyone’s arsenal. So why is micellar water so great and why should you use it?

Micellar water is basically a water that contains tiny droplets of cleansing oil molecules that are known as micelles. These little molecules attract dirt, oil , and other skin impurities. It’s everything you could want all in one: cleanser, toner, and moisturizer! And you don’t even have to rinse! Thousands of beauty addicts swear by it, and today, we’re going to show you how to make micellar water so you can save money and have fabulous skin too!

How to Make Micellar Water – Recipe

Unfortunately, most store bought micellar water bottles contain a ton of unnecessary ingredients which your skin really doesn’t need! After a little research, we discovered how to make micellar water right at home with all natural ingredients! You can rest assured that this homemade micellar water recipe will leave skin squeaky clean, moisturized, and oil free without all the chemicals! How to Make Micellar Water at Home 

You’ll Need:

  • 3 tbsp rose water (check out how to make your own rosewater)
  • 2 tsp witch hazel
  • 1 tsp vegetable glycerin – can be substituted for cocoa butter
  • 3 drops carrier oil of your choice such as coconut oil, argan oil, olive oil, etc…
  • Essential oils – optional. Some of our favorites are tea tree oil (great for oily/acne prone skin), geranium oil (for aging skin), or carrot seed oil (great for all skin types).
  • Clean bottle dropper or glass bottles

Directions:

  1. In a clean bottle dropper, add all ingredients together.
  2. Shake well and it’s ready to use!

How to Use Micellar Water:

After cleansing, apply a small amount of micellar water on a cotton ball or cotton pad and pat gently against skin. Repeat once in the morning and once before bed. No need to rinse! This homemade micellar water recipe is gentle enough to use twice a day, every day. Use it right after you’ve cleansed your face, but before any lotions or serums. Leaves skin soft, supple, and glowing.

Benefits of Micellar Water:

  • Easily removes makeup, dirt, and oil.
  • Controls oil production by balancing the skin’s pH
  • Shrinks pores and reduces the visibility of whiteheads and blackheads
  • Prevents the formation of pimples and controls regular breakouts
  • Softens and moisturizes the skin
  • Reduces irritation and inflammation
  • Tones skin by drawing out toxins and impurities
  • Hydrates and refreshes skin
  • Can be used as a makeup brush cleanser Read more 

Also read: Put Your Best Foot Forward DIY Foot Mask 

6 Skin Care Ingredients That Work Well Together (and 6 That Don’t)

“You want ingredients that will mix and not separate like oil and water in order to get an even distribution of the mixture on your skin. Mixing ingredients can provide additive effects to your skin,” explains Dr. Deborah Yu, a cosmetic surgeon with The Plastic Surgery Center. “If ingredients do not necessarily ‘match,’ you should be aware that you could have a less than optimal result.”

So what skin care ingredients are soul mates and which ones should call it quits? Here’s what the experts say:

GOOD: Vitamin C + Vitamin E

Dermatologist Tsippora Shainhouse MD, FAAD says that because both vitamin C and E are antioxidants, their components create an ideal cocktail that can help replenish and repair your skin cells, especially as your skin begins to get older and less firm. Dr. Yu adds: “Vitamin C performs a variety of functions within the skin: stimulation of collagen, reducing fine lines and wrinkles and aids in protecting the skin from environmental pollutants. Thus providing enhanced UV protection from UV exposure. And vitamin E steps in to help block free radicals from attacking the skin, reducing the signs of aging.”

GOOD: AHAs (Glycolic Acid) + BHAs (Salicylic Acid)

If you have acne-prone skin, even into adulthood, you might have trouble identifying what will actually get rid of those blemishes before a big board meeting or a promising first date. Dr. Shainhouse says to use a mix of glycolic acid, salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide to get the job done. “The acids exfoliate the skin, enabling the benzoyl peroxide to penetrate deeper for improved anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effect,” she explains.

GOOD: Hyaluronic Acid + Retinol

By the time you reach your late 20s (and possibly before if you’re really ahead of the skincare game), you’ve probably considered adding a retinoid into your regimen. “This is a derivative that unclogs pores, exfoliates, and boosts collagen to reduce fine lines, speed cell turnover, even out discoloration and smooth skin. Results can be seen sometimes as little as four weeks,” Dr. Yu says. But as your skin begins to respond to the treatment and shed its first layer, you might notice that your skin is super-sensitive or especially dry. That’s why Dr. Shainhouse says to add a product with hyaluronic acid to balance your system. “The hyaluronic is hydrating and can help prevent irritation from the retinoid, while allowing it to penetrate and still be effective,” she notes.

Read more 

Also read  Hello, Sunshine: Everything You Need to Know About Vitamin D Deficiency

 

10 Homemade Avocado Facial Masks For Glowing Skin

When it comes to Avocado facial masks, the inclusion of avocado as an active ingredient comes almost naturally. Any decent beauty expert worth their salt would strongly recommend utilizing the elements in avocados to enhance skin condition. The fruit contains vital minerals such as calcium, iron, copper, potassium, magnesium and other vitamins that provides an extensive range of benefits. By carefully extracting these nutrients, avocado facial masks offer advantages such as:

  • Treating sensitive, dry or acne prone skin
  • Enhancing skin elasticity
  • Reversing effects of aging
  • Can be homemade
  • Suitable for all skin types.

Avocado and Apricot

Recipe: Blend an avocado with apricots and spread over your face while avoiding the eye area.

Benefits: The natural acids can help to exfoliate dead skin cells while vitamin A and C in apricots tightens the skin. Vitamin E and high antioxidant content in avocados helps to balance skin tone as well.

This recipe shot up the popularity charts after Victoria Beckham swore by its effectiveness. Her tried and tested formula can be left on overnight but beauty experts suggests that 30 minutes is sufficient enough to absorb its nutrients.

Avocado and Oatmeal

Recipe: Cook the oatmeal as per normal and mash the avocado, with its seed and skin removed. Mix and stir both together until all the pulp is dissolved.

Benefits: Applying this formula as a facial mask can help to repair damaged skin and provides much needed moisture to the skin. Beauty fanatics can choose to keep it on for 15 minutes or allow it to dry naturally.

Avocado, Banana and Egg

Recipe: Pick a soft avocado and mix together with a banana and an egg yolk. Stir the mixture until a consistent paste is produced.

Benefits: People who are suffering from oily skin can seek help from this recipe. By applying it to the face for 10 to 15 minutes, it helps to reduce the natural oil content in the skin and can prevent acne and blemishes.

Avocado and Honey

Recipe: Remove seeds and peel skin from the avocado and mash it up. Mix and stir thoroughly with 1 tablespoon of honey until a standard paste is produced.

Benefits: Both avocado and honey are natural skin moisturizers. A short application time of 15 minutes helps to erase any signs of dull complexion and gives the skin a radiant glow. Read More……………

Also Read: Healthy Herb and Spices Water : Fight Cold, Flu and Infections With This Ayurvedic Wonder in Corona Time