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Chez
4 yrs
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Chez
THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN MAKING NEW YEAR RESOLUTIONS
~1.8 mins read
5 simple steps for a new you*
You want a new you in the new year? Read on.
While creating new habits are a great start, you’ll need a little more.
You’ll need these five personal traits to focus on in the New Year.
My belief is that most people fail because they focus on surface goals. For instance, if I want to lose weight and have an overeating problem, making a resolution to go to the gym will not work. It doesn’t address the underlying issue, overeating.
Or… maybe I decide I’m going to work on my overeating by having a diet instead. But you probably know from experience either with yourself or with a friend a lot of diets never even get off the ground.
Why is that? Again, it’s because a person isn’t going deep enough. They haven’t really changed their mindset, and they haven’t really changed themselves.
Below are the five personal traits that every person must cultivate in order to not just conquer bad habits but also to become a better person.
Vision
The ability to see a better future. With any goal, you must be able to understand why you are going where you are going.
Courage
The ability to act despite tremendous doubt. Anytime you change something or start something new, it can be scary. It takes courage to say no to ingrained patterns.
Creativity
The ability to think outside the box and learn from our failures rather than the media or old thinking.
Another important question that creativity spurs is, “How can I do this differently this time?†When we fail, we must find a new angle or approach.
Fortitude
The ability to withstand criticism. Sometimes this criticism comes from other people—and sometimes it comes from that little voice in our head! Either way, you must be able to push forward even when all else is telling you that you’ll fail.
Patience
Patience is the ability to delay gratification. There is no quick way. There are no shortcuts. At least, nothing that lasts. Achieving success in anything takes tremendous patience.
Remember, before you can change your physical process, you must first change your mental process.
Happy New Year
Personal care and Beauty
SKIN CARE ROUTINE (EXFOLIATION)
EXFORLIATION
Exfoliating Is The Process Of Removing Dead Skin Cells From The Surface Of Your Skin Using A Chemical, G...
Chez
4 yrs
931
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Chez
SKIN CARE ROUTINE (EXFOLIATION)
~4.8 mins read
EXFORLIATION
Exfoliating is the process of removing dead skin cells from the surface of your skin using a chemical, granular substance, or exfoliation tool.
Your skin naturally sheds dead skin cells to make room for new cells every 30 days or so.
Sometimes, dead cells don’t shed completely. This can result in dry, flaky patches and clogged pores. Exfoliating can help prevent this.
Exfoliating can improve the appearance of your skin in several ways.
It can leave your skin looking brighter and improve the effectiveness of topical skin care products by enhancing absorption.
Regular exfoliation can help prevent clogged pores, resulting in fewer breakouts.
Long-term exfoliating can increase collagen production. Collagen is key to glowing, vibrant skin. The protein also promotes skin elasticity, minimizing the appearance of fine lines and related sagging.
There are different methods of exfoliating your skin:
*PHYSICAL EXFORLIATION
Any exfoliating product or method that requires manual scrubbing or rubbing is known as physical exfoliantion.
You may already be using a physical exfoliant — cleansing scrubs, body brushes, and loofahs are all common methods.
The biggest advantage to physical exfoliation is the ease of access. You can do this at home with as little as a muslin washcloth or a do-it-yourself (DIY) scrub. It also offers immediate results.
If performed incorrectly, physical exfoliation can sometimes irritate your skin and may result in transepidermal water loss. Following up with a humectant oil or serum can help minimize irritation and lock in moisture.
*Materials
There are a few abrasive materials to choose from for manual exfoliation, including:
cleansing scrubs
exfoliating mitts
dry brushes
loofahs
pumice stones
microneedling or micro derma rollers
*DIY scrubs
You likely already have all the ingredients you need to make an effective DIY scrub in your kitchen.
Sugar and milk, for example, contain acids that can help exfoliate your skin. When used topically, coffee may offer protective antioxidant properties and promote collagen production.
Want to try it out? Here are two easy DIY scrub recipes for your face and body.
*Café au lait facial scrub
What you’ll need:
½ cup coffee grounds
1 cup brown sugar
2 tsp. milk or buttermilk
1 tsp. honey
What to do:
Add all ingredients to an airtight container and stir well.
Gently splash your face with water or wet your face using a spray mist.
Spread scrub over your face and neck, avoiding your eyes.
Wet your hands and begin gently rubbing the mixture into your skin in a circular motion. Continue for 3-4 minutes.
Rinse off using lukewarm water and pat dry.
Store any remaining scrub in the fridge.
*Brown sugar body scrub
What you’ll need:
½ cup coconut oil
¼ cup honey
½ cup brown sugar
3 tbsp. ground oatmeal
What to do:
Stir coconut oil and honey together.
Add brown sugar and oatmeal. Stir until you’re left with a thick paste.
After wetting your skin, gently rub the mixture on your body.
Rinse and pat dry.
HOW TO CHOOSE PRODUCTS
There are scrubs for your face, body, and feet that you can buy Over-the-counter (OTC). You can also find options for different skin types.
Here are some things to keep in mind when selecting a product
*Check the Scope.
You should never use a scrub meant for your body on your face. Body scrubs are generally harsher and may tear delicate facial tissue.
*Use One Product at a Time.* Although it may be tempting to buy a full set of a products, you shouldn’t use more than one exfoliant at a time. Using multiple exfoliating products on the same area of skin can damage the skin and result in unwanted side effects.
*Switch Products Out.*
You may need to cycle through different products as your skin care needs change. For example: If your skin has become oily, consider using a product with charcoal.
*CHEMICAL EXFOLIATION
This method uses different chemicals, including hydroxy acids and retinol, with enzymes to renew your skin.
While DIY and OTC scrubs can help enhance your skin’s appearance, chemical exfoliation can offer more dramatic results.
As with physical exfoliation, chemical exfoliation can irritate the skin if done incorrectly. If you’re unsure about how to incorporate a chemical product into your routine, see a dermatologist or other healthcare provider for guidance.
*Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs)
AHAs are a group of water-soluble acids typically derived from sugary fruits. Popular AHAs include:
glycolic acid, which comes from sugar cane
lactic acid, which is found in milk and pickled vegetables
citric acid, found in citrus fruits
tartaric acid, from grapes
malic acid, found in apples
These acids help peel away the surface of your skin so that new, more evenly pigmented skin cells may generate and take their place.
Depending on the type, AHAs may also help with:
mild hyperpigmentation like age spots, melasma, and scars
enlarged pores
fine lines and surface wrinkles
uneven skin tone
*Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHAs)
BHAs, on the other hand, are oil-soluble. These acids go deep into your hair follicles to dry out excess oils and dead skin cells to unclog your pores.
Because of this, BHA products are primarily used to treat acne and sun damage.
Salicylic acid is the most common BHA. It’s well known as an acne treatment, but it can also help calm general redness and inflammation.
*Retinoids
Retinoids are a class of medications derived from vitamin A. They’re used to soothe sun-damaged skin, minimize signs of aging, and treat acne.
They work by protecting your skin from free radicals and promoting collagen production.
There are several topical retinoids available, including:
retinol
adapalene
alitretinoin
tretinoin
bexarotene
tazarotene
Retinoids vary in concentration. If OTC options aren’t working, talk to a dermatologist. They may be able to prescribe a stronger formula.
Choosing the right exfoliating technique for your skin type will minimize your risk of irritation and help you achieve the best possible result.
See my previous post to know your skin type.
Personal care and Beauty
SOME SIMPLE HOMEMADE FACE MASKS RECIPES FOR A RADIANT AND SMOOTH SKIN
Face Masks Are The Perfect Skin Care Treatment To Help You With Your Skin Care Concerns. The Right Face Mask Can Help Hydrate...
Chez
4 yrs
1281
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Chez
SOME SIMPLE HOMEMADE FACE MASKS RECIPES FOR A RADIANT AND SMOOTH SKIN
~3.8 mins read
Face masks are the perfect skin care treatment to help you with your skin care concerns. The right face mask can help hydrate skin, remove excess oils and help improve the appearance of your pores. They also help to remove impurities.
A strong indicator of good health is glowing skin. It’s no wonder face masks have grown in popularity over the years. They’re easy to apply, fun to concoct and they give our physical appearance a significant boost.
Face masks are not only applied at the spas, you can equally enjoy the production and application of face masks by yourself and at the comfort of your home.
Below are some simple face mask recipes you can make and apply at the comfort of your home.
*Avocado Face Mask
Avocado is one of the prominent superfoods for skin. Did you know that it can also be used for facials? Take advantage of avocado’s vitamins and protein to moisturize your skin.
Ingredients:
1 Ripe Avocado
1 Egg White – room temperature
1 Tablespoon Lemon Juice
Directions:
1. Peel avocado and mash until there are no chunks.
2. Mix avocado, egg whites and lemon juice into a bowl.
3. Apply to face and let sit for 30 minutes.
4. Rinse.
*Strawberry Face Mask
Strawberries are rich in vitamin C and also contain alpha hydroxy acids, which help with exfoliation. This face mask will give you a beautifully smooth skin.
Ingredients:
10 Fresh Strawberries
1/4 Cup Bee Pollen
3 Tablespoons
Raw Honey
1 Tablespoon Olive Oil
Mayonnaise
A Few Drops of Lavender Essential Oil
Directions:
Combine and blend all the ingredients.
Apply to the face, avoiding the eye area.
Let it sit for 20 minutes.
Rinse.
* Honey Face Mask
This face mask is particularly good for scars and dark spots. It’s also extremely easy to make.
Ingredients:
2 Teaspoons Raw Honey
1/2 Teaspoon Lemon Juice
Directions:
Combine the lemon juice and honey.
Apply the mixture to your face.
Allow it to sit for 20-30 minutes.
Rinse.
Please note: Lemon juice is a relatively strong ingredient, it’s best to limit the number of times you use this mask to 1-2 times per week.
*Tomato & Cucumber Face Mask
Both tomato and cucumber are natural astringents which help tighten pores and revitalize your skin.
Ingredients:
1/2 Ripe Tomato
1/4 Cucumber
Directions:
Wash and peel your 1/4 cucumber.
Blend it to a fine pulp with 1/2 tomato.
Apply the mixture to your skin in a gentle circular motion.
Let it sit for 15 minutes.
Rinse.
*Banana Face Mask
Bananas contain a wealth of nutrients that benefit the skin. Banana helps to absorb excess oil while the lemon juice cleanses the skin. This face mask is for people with oily skin. It will leave your skin feeling soft and hydrated
Ingredients:
Few Slices of Ripe Banana
1 Tablespoon Thick Yogurt
1/2 Tablespoon Fresh Lemon Juice
Directions:
Peel off ripe banana and mash it with a spoon.
Mix all the ingredients well and apply to cleansed face.
Let it sit for 25-30 minutes
Gently massage into skin for 2-3 minutes.
Rinse.
*Almond Oil and Aloe Vera Face Mask
This mask is great for treating dry, flaky skin, it also moisturizes and hydrates dry skin.
Ingredients:
Aloe Vera Gel
Almond Oil
Banana
Directions:
In a mixing bowl, mash a banana with a fork.
Add 2 tablespoons aloe vera gel.
Stir until ingredients are combined.
Measure in 3 teaspoons of almond oil.
Mix thoroughly.
Apply to cleansed skin.
Let it sit for 15 minutes.
Rinse.
*Coffee and Turmeric Face Mask
The main benefits of this mask are caffeine and antioxidants. Caffeine reduces inflammation, including puffy eyes, while the antioxidants help the skin to glow.
Ingredients:
1 Tablespoon Instant or Ground Coffee
1 Tablespoon Powdered Turmeric
1 Tablespoon of Greek Yogurt
Directions:
Mix together.
Apply all over your face, including under the eyes.
Let it sit for 20 minutes.
Remove with warm, damp towel.
*Egg White Face Mask
This is a simple, effective mask to help shrink pores and prevent breakouts.
Ingredients:
1 Organic Egg
Directions:
Cleanse face with warm water to allow pores to open.
Break egg, separating white from yolk with the shell (passing yolk back and forth into shell halves).
With clean hands, apply the egg white to your face, making sure not to get any in your eyes or mouth.
Let it sit for 15 minutes.
Rinse with warm water.
*Chocolate Mask
Dark chocolate can brighten your mood and give you a boost of antioxidants. It also has anti-aging properties.
Ingredients:
1/2 Cup of Cocoa Powder
3 Tablespoons of Oats
4 Tablespoons of Cream
1/4 Cup of Honey
Directions:
Mix ingredients thoroughly.
Apply a delicate layer to the face.
Let it sit for 10 minutes.
Rinse.
*Oatmeal Face Mask
Applying this mask, helps to nourish and calm your skin.
Ingredients:
3 Teaspoons Oats or Oatmeal
1 Teaspoon Almond, Hemp, or Plain Milk (warmed slightly)
1 Teaspoon Rose Water
1 Teaspoon Plain or Coconut Yogurt
Directions:
Blend the oats or oatmeal with slightly warmed milk.
Stir until the mixture forms a thick paste.
Mix in the rose water and yogurt.
Apply to clean, damp skin.
Let it sit for 15-30 minutes.
Rinse.
I know you will definitely enjoy applying these simple but highly effective recipes.
Please check with your dermatologist if you notice any reactions because of the use of the ingredients in the recipes.
Don't forget to check back for more amazing recipes.
Health and Lifestyle
SKIN CARE AND SKIN ANALYSIS
KNOWING YOUR SKIN TYPE
Your Skin Can Change Over Time. For Example, Younger People Are More Like...
Chez
4 yrs
1108
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Chez
SKIN CARE AND SKIN ANALYSIS
~3.2 mins read
KNOWING YOUR SKIN TYPE
Your skin can change over time. For example, younger people are more likely than older people to have a normal skin type.
Everyone's skin is normal to them, but ascertaining your skin type is an important first step in knowing how to give your skin proper care and to know what products to use in order to achieve a flawless skin.
Skin care is the range of practices that support skin integrity, enhance its appearance and relieve skin conditions. They may include nutrition, avoidance of excessive sun exposure and appropriate use of emollients.
DIFFERENT SKIN TYPES
There are five common skin types: normal, oily, dry, combination and sensitive. Blotting a clean tissue on your face in the morning is an easy way to find out your skin type.
A normal skin type has good circulation and there will not be any trace of sebum (oil) on the tissue. Normal skin is soft, with a smooth, even skin tone.
An oily skin type will leave blots of facial oil on the tissue, particularly from the cheeks, nose and forehead. This type of skin has overactive sebaceous glands, producing more oil than necessary. Oily skin can be caused by hereditary factors, diet, hormone levels, pregnancy, unsuitable cosmetics and stress, leading to acne flare ups and enlarged pores. It is vital to thoroughly clean the skin regularly with gentle, soap-free cleansers.
A dry skin type has a low level of sebum and does not maintain oil easily. Dry skin is often flaky and feels tight after being wiped. Gentle cleansing and a rich protective moisturiser for dry skin is essential to control that tight, uncomfortable feeling. It may be necessary to adjust your dry skin moisturiser for the changing seasons.
A combination skin type, oil is produced around the 'T-zone' of the nose and forehead but not on the cheeks, mouth and eye areas. The best skin care for combination skin will involve treating each region differently.
Having a sensitive skin type can mean different things to different people. It can be caused by skin conditions such as rosacea, eczema or allergies. Sensitive skin can become inflamed and irritated easily. It is important to choose the right skin care products for sensitive skin because many cleansers and moisturisers contain ingredients that can cause an adverse reactions to this skin type.
Basically our skins all fall in either of d sections above.
SKIN ANALYSIS
Any qualified dermatologist will tell you how important it is to ensure that any skin care products are chosen with your skin type in mind. If the product isn't right for your skin type it won't be as effective and could cause skin defection/reactions. This is why whether purchasing a moisturiser, cleanser or anything else for your skin, it's essential you know your skin type.
The type of skin you have depends on the amount of water and oil in your skin. If these are out of balance your skin will suffer. So for example, if your skin has too much oil you may be more prone to acne outbreaks, and your skin will appear shiny. Skin care products designed for oily skin will be oil-free, and may have ingredients designed to help rebalance the level of oil in your skin.
Another problem that many people suffer from is dry skin, which is caused by a lack of water in the skin. As well as feeling itchy and tight. Dry skin looks visibly flaky and can even cause fine lines. Products designed with dry skin in mind will usually be water-based to add much needed moisture to the skin.
It's also possible to have combination skin. This means that some areas of the face will be oily while others will be dry. People with this skin type may want to use products designed specifically for combination skin, or use different products on the different areas of their face.
Finally, there is normal skin; people with this skin type have the right balance of oil and water.
Some people can tell their skin type simply from looking in the mirror. Others might be able to feel whether they have oily, dry or normal skin or be happy taking an online test. If, however, you don't feel confident about what type of skin you have, it's best to speak to a dermatologist to ensure u only use the products best suited for your skin
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