How to wear shimmer makeup

One has to be very careful when it comes to makeup, for it is easy to go overboard, especially when it involves shimmer. 

When applied properly, shimmer can add a glow to your face and enhance your features — but there is a fine line between highlighting your features and looking ghastly. Here are a few tips one should keep in mind when using shimmer:

Consider your age when using shimmer. It doesn't really suit teenagers as it makes them look much older than they are. Women in their 20s and 30s can carry off that shiny look well.

Choose one place on your face to add shine. You can either add shimmer to your eyes, cheeks or lips — don't highlight these three areas all at once. You can add a little glitter to your nails if you want another shimmery element.

Shimmer looks good when blended well, so use a brush to do so. Don't use your fingers as it might not blend as effectively.

The eyes look great when highlighted, so try and limit the use of shimmer to highlight the eyes. It's a great look for an evening out.

Shimmer can also be worn in the form of a bronzer. It especially looks good on women with a dusky complexion, but others can use it too, provided it is blended well.

Home remedies for brittle nails

There are many women out there who wishes and fantasies of having that perfect 10/10 nails, which they can flaunt by wearing the latest and trendiest nail enamels or going for that latest nail art. 

However, brittle and weak nails can wash away your dreams of flaunting those picture perfect nails. In today's busy schedule we might not always get time to go for those expensive manicures but there are certain home remedies which if practiced regularly can help you to keep those pretty nails strong and in shape.

1. Olive oil and lemon juice mixture: Take a teaspoon of olive oil and infuse it with few drops of lemon juice. Now take small portions of this mixture and apply it on your nails and massage it. Let it remain overnight and wear soft hand gloves after massage so that your nails aren't exposed to water. Do this atleast twice a week for better results.

2. Coconut oil massage: Take few teaspoons of coconut oil and warm it a little. Apply the same on your nails and hands and gently massage it. Along with making your nails stronger it will also improve your blood circulation while keeping your nails moistured. You can also mix warm coconut oil with few drops of lemon juice. Soak your nails in this mixture and then gently massage it. After massage wear gloves and keep them overnight for good results.

3. Sea Salt mixture: Not only will sea salt help strengthen brittle nails, it can also soften cuticles adding a dazzling shine to your nails. Mix tea tablespoons of fine grain sea salts in a small bowl of warm water and add two drops of wheat germ oil, frankincense oil and few drops of lemon oil. In this solution soak your nails for approx 10-15 minutes and rinse it off with warm water, now pat dry and apply a hand cream. Repeating this procedure thrice a week can give good results.

4. Keep them moisturized: Rub petroleum jelly or a moisturizer cream around your nails throughout the day. During nights make sure that you wear thin cotton gloves after massaging with oil so that to get the maximum benefits of the same. Also you can wear vinyl gloves while doing dishes or laundry. Nail polish removers that contains high content of acetone or formaldehyde, as they do harm your nails, instead use acetate-based removers instead.

5. Proper Diet: Your diet and lifestyle has a lot to do with how strong or brittle your nails are. If your body isn't getting enough protein, fats, vitamins and minerals then no amount of home remedies o manicures will be able to keep your nails strong. A healthy and balanced diet which contain vitamins A, C, D, E, as well as many B vitamins, and folic acid, zinc, iron, calcium and biotin can reduce your risk of brittle nails. Not only will your nails grow stronger, you can also see improvements in your skin, hair and will feel healthier from inside.

Home remedies to treat dandruff

All of us have suffered from dandruff at some point or the other. While several factors can cause it, fungal infection on the scalp is one of the main reasons.

Other causes include exposure to pollution, hormonal fluctuations, stress and neurological disorders. Bad hygiene habits also contribute to the problem. Here are some simple and effective home remedies to get rid of an itchy, flaky scalp...

 Olive oil contains natural clarifying properties known to get rid of dandruff. Massage your scalp with olive oil at least twice a week. To make it more effective, wrap a scarf around your hair before sleeping so that the oil is absorbed well.

Boil a few neem leaves for half an hour. Crush them, make a paste and apply it on your scalp. Leave it for about 40 minutes and wash it off.

 After you're done shampooing and conditioning, give your hair a final rinse with a few drops of apple cide vinegar mixed with water. Since vinegar is packed with potassium, it is effective in getting rid of dead skin. Avoid using chemically treated vinegar.

Soak fenugreek seeds overnight in water. Make a paste and apply this on your scalp. Leave it for about half an hour and wash it off with lukewarm water. Do this weekly for a month.

Aloe vera comprises antibacterial and anti-fungal properties, which are excellent to treat dandruff. Apply aloe vera gel on your scalp for around 40 minutes and wash if off with your shampoo.

How to hydrate your lips with lip stain

A lipstick not only adds colour to your lips but also nourishes it by keeping it smooth and soft.

Choose a lipstick with vitamin E
There are many lipsticks that contain vitamin E which provides hydration to your lips. These lipsticks can be matte-based ones or shimmer ones as well.

Apply a lip balm before
During the colder months, your lips are bound to get dry. Thus, before you apply a lipstick, always rub a little bit of lip balm on your lips. This ensures that your lipstick stays on for a longer duration of time as well as your lips don't dry out.

Make sure to apply two shades darker
When applying a lipstick, always ensure that you apply twice. This will give a thick coat of colour to your lips and will moisturise it as well. However, there are certain lipsticks which does the trick in just one application.

Use a makeup remover to wipe it off
Unlike wiping off the lipstick with water and face wash, use a makeup remover to gently clean your lips. This will not take away the moisture from your lips and will keep it hydrated for a long time.

9 Ways to keep your skin looking young

You might not know what it is, but collagen is the key when it comes to keeping your skin youthful and wrinkle-free.

Collagen is a protein produced by our cells that helps "hold" the skin together, giving it firmness and elasticity. When we're young, our skin stays plump and smooth because it constantly regenerates itself. But as we age, collagen production slows -and existing collagen can get damaged due to sun exposure and bad skin habits.The results?

Wrinkles and sagging skin. Luckily , there's lots you can do to preserve your collagen and even boost its production...

1. UP YOUR VITAMIN C IN TAKE
A study published in the American Journal of Nutrition found women over 40 with the highest amount of vitamin C in their diet were less likely to develop wrinkles than those who consumed lower levels."Vitamin C is crucial to the formation of collagen. Without it, amino acids can't be linked to form the protein," says dietitian Jo Travers, "Good sources are red pepper, dark green leafy vegetables like broccoli and sprouts, tomatoes, oranges and kiwi fruit." Skincare products that contains vitamin C is also thought to encourage collagen repair (it's usually listed on the label as LAscorbic acid, ascorbyl palmitate or ascorbyl phosphate).

2. STOP SMOKING
"Smoking creates enzymes called matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), which damage the collagen in your skin; hence the telltale sagging which many smokers are betrayed by," says consultant dermatologist Dr Nick Lowe.

3. STAY SUN SAFE
Sun exposure is a prime suspect for hastening collagen loss. "UVA rays penetrate deep into the skin and damage the deep collagen support structures there," says Dr Lowe, "My advice would be to wear an SPF15 broad spectrum cream (one that protects against UVA and UVB rays) through the year."

4. REACH FOR RETINOL
Retinoid creams -only available on prescription -have been proven to help boost collagen production. "Retinoids reduce substances in the skin that break down collagen after sun exposure and also target receptors in the skin which increase the production of collagen," says Dr Maria Gonzalez. You can get your hands on milder forms of retinoid in over-the-counter retinol creams.

5. CUT BACK ON THE STUFF SWEET
According to Dr Patricia Farris, eating too much sugar can be a beauty disaster. It causes premature ageing of the skin by a process called gly cation. This is where excess sugar in the blood attaches itself to lipids, nucleic acids and proteins (especially your collagen) to form "advanced glycation end products" or AGEs, which accelerate the ageing process and cause wrinkly skin.

6. EXFOLIATE
Exfoliation -removing the top, dead layer of skin -helps speed up the natural process of skin and col lagen renewal, says Amanda Elias, founder of a skin care brand. "My favourite way to b exfoliate is with chemical exfo liants such as gly colic acid and lac tic acid. They dis solve the glue-like ubstance that substance that bonds dead skin to the surface rather than sloughing it away like scrubs do, and give a more even scrubs do, and give a more even r result, leaving skin looking healthier tand more radiant."

7. ADD ANTIOXIDANTS TO YOUR SKINCARE REGIME
Antioxidants help protect against free radicals that can cause ageing skin."The term `free radical' describes a damaged skin cell," says Amanda."It's `free' because it's missing an elec tron (healthy cells have two electrons, a damaged cell has one). "Free radicals attach themselves to healthy skin cells and basically suck out the electrons they need, leaving healthy skin cells damaged. This process triggers an enzyme in the skin that breaks down collagen. Antioxidants help by neutralising the free radical so that it doesn't have to feed off our healthy skin cells."

Sip on green tea -it contains antioxidants called catechins -and eat foods high in lutein, an antioxidant found in green leafy veg like spinach. Look for creams and serums containing antioxidants, too.

8. PLANT PROTEINS, PLEASE
The menopause can make us wrinkly because, as we age, our oestrogen levels drop. Because oestrogen is vital to making healthy collagen, creases and crinkles can creep in to our skin. Lots of foods contain plant oestrogens (phytoestrogens) that can help replace the effects of lost oestrogen. Try hummus, nuts, soy and pinto beans. Look for face creams containing phytoestrogens.

9. MASSAGE
"Massaging your face daily will help boost the production of collagen, give skin a more plump appearance and help stimulate the lymph glands to promote clear skin," says Nichola Joss, a skincare expert. "Use a collagen boosting oil," she adds. Daily Mirror

Young women are colouring their hair grey!

Vintage style granny chic fashion like thick-rimmed glasses, floral tea dresses, frumpy cardigans and kitten heels have featured heavily on the catwalks for many seasons. Taking a cue from this pop...ular sartorial style, we now have celebrities who have extended this trend to beauty as well.

Popstars Rihanna and Lady Gaga, singer Kelly Osbourne, reality TV star Kylie Jenner are among the many young women, who have been spotted with grey hair. And we're not talking about a few odd pesky strands; they're going the whole hog and dyeing their hair in this stale shade of silver! Closer home, designer Nandita Mahtani has been known to proudly sport grey streaks. Why is this dull hue becoming such a rage amongst young women?

Grey is the new black
Stylist Uday Shirali believes granny chic beauty is a reflection of the carefree attitude that young women have today. "The confidence of sporting grey hair makes one look sexy. Feminine dye colours like pink, purple, blonde, magenta, cherry are done to death; grey is a welcome change. Also, there is the constant pressure to look different. So women who like experimenting and have access to high-end beauty products and salon services are not afraid to move away from conventional trends and try something path-breaking." why it will suit Indian women

The key to sporting the trend right

-If you're going grey on your hair, you have to complement it with the right make-up. Wear your lips in bright shades of hot pink and fiery red. Match the grey tones in your hair by going for smokey eyes.

Quick pamper yourself in Saloon-Body Grafixx

If you're planning on some post party indulgence, here's why you should think twice

The quickest way to pamper yourself is to indulge at the salon. However, a recent study claims that a simple fish pedicure that involves tiny toothless car...p nibbling away at dead skin could spread deadly infection and disease. And that's just the tip of the proverbial iceberg. So, if you have intentions of stopping by the salon for a beauty treatment, read on.

Skin-tillating? ...not at all! If you have a weak immune system, or condition like diabetes and psoriasis in particular, experts advise you to stay away from your local beauty parlour. They warn of the dangers of contracting Hepatitis C from the use of unsterile scissors (through a nick during a haircut or even a manicure). A website even reports how American singer Paula Abdul suffered a long and painful thumb infection she picked up at a Los Angeles nail salon and testified before legislators in support of a bill to increase nail salon health standards.

"If a person is already infected with a bacterial or fungal infection and warts or molluscum (viral) and bleeds into the water in the tank, then there definitely is a very chance this could be passed to another client, either via the fish or contaminated tank water; if this not taken care of it can be harmful," says skin expert Dr Krupa Amonkar. In addition, there is a danger of contracting the Hepatitis c virus from unsterile scissors either through a nick during a haircut or during a slip that draws blood in a manicure. A website reports how singer and American Idol judge Paula Abdul suffered long, painful thumb infection that she apparently picked up at a Los Angeles nail salon and testified before legislators in support of a bill to increase nail-salon health standards. Mike Comins, chairman of the British Association of Cosmetic Doctors, says: "Hepatitis C is a robust virus that can live outside the body for quite a long time and may not display any symptoms at all. It can linger for decades, increasing your risk of cirrhosis and liver cancer. It's very contagious and not routinely tested for." Adds skin doctor Rita Shah, "One has to be careful. If the instruments are not sterilised properly, there's a risk they could spread blood-borne infections." Hair and now! Ever thought a simple blow dry could nix it for you? That's apparently that case.

You can actually suffer 'asphyxiation' from a Brazilian Blowdry as a major ingredient in the straightening treatment dubbed the Brazilian, or permanent, blowdry is said to be formaldehyde. And inspite of certain restrictions on the amount of the chemical that can be used, and new formaldehyde-free formulations, certain firms are still selling products that can cause breathing difficulties and other unpleasant side-effects. That's a scare, not counting smaller woes like head lice from dirty brushes! And don't forget hot wax has the potential to be seriously dangerous if it's not handled properly or even a stroke from a washbasin! If you have managed to just end up to with a crick in your neck and shoulder after a shampoo, count your blessings. Research indicates that the position in which you have to hold your neck while being shampooed over a basin could, in a few cases result in a stroke, known as Beauty Salon Stroke Syndrome. The result can be dizziness, facial numbness, and even a blood clot in the brain. This is especially dangerous for those with high blood pressure. The warning signs are out, next time you might want to do a re-think before your hairdo or manicure.

Beauty benefits of used green tea bags

We are all well aware of the health benefits of green tea, but before you discard the used green tea bag, think twice.

Just sipping this tea is not the only benefit you have. This packed small tea bag can work wonders for your skin. Read on to find out more...

For your eyes only
Don't throw away the tea bags and instead, cool them and place them over your eyes for relief. Green tea contains tannin, an astringent that miraculously shrinks skin. The cool tea bags reduce the swelling around your eyes and tighten the skin, making you look and feel fabulous.

Scrub it on
Since it helps tighten the skin, making a green tea facial scrub out of the used tea is very good for the face. Mix green tea with granulated sugar and water, and you have an exfoliating scrub. It is all natural and thus light on the skin and gives you an incredible glow. You can store the scrub in the fridge to keep it fresh for longer.

Face mask
Mix equal amounts of baking soda and green tea and a bit of honey to make a facial mask. Honey helps in rejuvenating your skin and green tea, as mentioned, tightens the skin. Baking soda is a good exfoliator and helps detox the skin.

In case you're short on time and cannot apply the face mask, heat water and run the tea bag over it till it starts to steam. Squeeze out most of the water and rub the bag over your face for a few minutes for an instant glow.

For your hair
Yes, a green tea rinse is good for your mane as well and gives your hair a great shine. Put a few green tea bags in boiling water and let it simmer for 10 to 15 minutes. Leave it overnight. The next morning, pour this water on damp hair and leave it for 10 minutes. You can massage your scalp if you like. Rinse it off and apply shampoo later as usual, but make sure to use a sulphate-free product.

Beauty benefits of used green tea bags

We are all well aware of the health benefits of green tea, but before you discard the used green tea bag, think twice.

Just sipping this tea is not the only benefit you have. This packed small tea bag can work wonders for your skin. Read on to find out more...

For your eyes only
Don't throw away the tea bags and instead, cool them and place them over your eyes for relief. Green tea contains tannin, an astringent that miraculously shrinks skin. The cool tea bags reduce the swelling around your eyes and tighten the skin, making you look and feel fabulous.

Scrub it on
Since it helps tighten the skin, making a green tea facial scrub out of the used tea is very good for the face. Mix green tea with granulated sugar and water, and you have an exfoliating scrub. It is all natural and thus light on the skin and gives you an incredible glow. You can store the scrub in the fridge to keep it fresh for longer.

Face mask
Mix equal amounts of baking soda and green tea and a bit of honey to make a facial mask. Honey helps in rejuvenating your skin and green tea, as mentioned, tightens the skin. Baking soda is a good exfoliator and helps detox the skin.

In case you're short on time and cannot apply the face mask, heat water and run the tea bag over it till it starts to steam. Squeeze out most of the water and rub the bag over your face for a few minutes for an instant glow.

For your hair
Yes, a green tea rinse is good for your mane as well and gives your hair a great shine. Put a few green tea bags in boiling water and let it simmer for 10 to 15 minutes. Leave it overnight. The next morning, pour this water on damp hair and leave it for 10 minutes. You can massage your scalp if you like. Rinse it off and apply shampoo later as usual, but make sure to use a sulphate-free product.

Home remedies for bright white teeth

Pearly whites gone pale! One of the most common problems that every dentist comes across. Though we all wish to have pearly white smile, going for crazy expensive treatments definitely burns a hole in our pockets, thank goodness there are some home remedies which are not only easy but very reasonable.

Banana peels: Bananas are considered to be a wholesome fruit that houses loads of nutrients. But do you know that banana peels are a great source of teeth whitening as well. So the next time preserve that banana peel to get a pearly white teeth. Rub the peel on your teeth for about a minute or two twice daily. The minerals in bananas such as potassium, manganese and magnesium, are absorbed into your teeth, which keeps your pearly whites in their best health. Orange peels are also considered to be a great source of teeth whiteners.

Berry berry strawberry: Did you know that those bright red strawberries are a great source of teeth whiteners? Well, now that you know it, start stocking up fresh strawberries. All you have to do is take one or two strawberries, mash them up and apply them on your teeth for 2 to 3 minutes. Rinse properly after this procedure or you can even brush your teeth. Strawberries being a rich source of natural enzyme known as malic acid, helps in whitening teeth, while the fiber found in strawberries act as a natural cleanser that helps in remoivng the bacteria especially, from the mouth and teeth.

Munch in the crunchy carrots: The next time you see those crunchy carrots, simply wash them well and eat them raw. Raw carrots are very beneficial in scrapping off plaque from your teeth and are also known as natural cleaner. Also rubbing raw carrot sticks on your teeth will brighten them up. They also kill the bacteria while giving you healthy gums and whiter teeth. Apart from carrots, apples and celery are also considered equally important sources of teeth whiteners. which prevents gum disease and gingivitis and kills odor-causing bacteria.

Quit smoking: Surely it is easy to say than actually doing it and sticking to it. But, all said and done, quitting smoking has more benefits. Smoking, yellows your teeth along with imparting you with other deadly diseases. So if you want to bring back the pearly white shines, quit smoking.

Use a straw: Sipping anything extremely hot or cold is not good for your teeth. So as far as possible try sipping your tea or cold coffee through a straw as it cuts down the direct contact of your teeth and hot beverages.