Tuesday, October 28, 2008

Beauty Tips for Teens



Being a teen in today's world brings many pressures from society to look good.The media is full of beautiful faces that add to the stress of growing up. Don't let that undermine your self confidence. What's a girl to do? There are many ways to enhance your natural beauty and keep a practical skin care and makeup routine. These tips will help bring out the best in you,but remember,good posture and a smile give great first impression.

Teen Skin Care Tips

Teenagers have different skin care and makeup needs than mature women.At what age should a teen begin a skin care regimen? Skin care should actually start when they are preteens,as early as the age 10 or 11.Hormones start to kick in blemishes may begin to appear.As you mature your skin care needs will change,as your skin does.Pay special attention to what products you are using and if there are any undesirable affects taking place.What makes your skin look radiant one month may cause blemishes and break outs the next.

Moisturizer

At an early age,a light moisturizer may be called for,but do not use heavy creams made for dry skin.Choose a product that is formulated for light skin care maintenance and does not block your pores.A heavy moisturizer will probably wreak havoc and cause pimples.Try using a light moisturizer only once a day,before bedtime.Any more often than that is probably be overdoing it.

Pimples and Blemishes

Acne is a #1 skin care concern for teens.Keep your face and hair clean,wash your hands frequently,and keep them away from your face.There are many products available on the market today for acne prevention and cures,and they are much more effective than years ago.Once you begin experiencing problems,take action to avoid lifetime scarring.

Makeup Tips for Teens

Most teenage girls begin wearing light makeup around the ages of 12-13 as they become more aware of their appearance.As a teen,your makeup should look natural and enhance your facial features.Don't overdo it,this will only make you look silly.With a few simple,inexpensive products,you can play up your finest features and look great! Keep your makeup light for school.You don't need to use makeup on every facial feature you have.Mix and match to find out what looks best on you. For parties,you may want to add a little more makeup to enhance your features.Make sure you blend it in well with your fingers or a cosmetics brush and check in bright light when you're finished.

Foundation

Foundation for teens is not necessary.While it can clog your pores,it will also look overdone.Skip the foundation and use a concealer on your blemishes only.Lightly dust on some loose powder over your entire face to even out your skin tone,control oil,and set the concealer.

Freckles

Don't try to hide your freckles.You may not appreciate them,but they are apart of you.Exposure to sunlight makes freckles darker so avoiding the sun and using a sunscreen will keep them in check. As you get older,they can fade and then they won't be an issue.

Eye Makeup

You may not be interested in eye shadow until you're a little older.If so,thats great.When you do begin wearing it,keep it light and use any trendy metallics and sparkles sparingly.They can flake off into your eyes and cause irritation.Eye shadow does not have to match your eyes,however earth tones(tan,brown,gray)are very complimentary to blue,brown and hazel eyes. When you begin using mascara,brown works best for both blondes and brunettes. Black is probably too harsh,especially in the daytime.If you think brown isn't dark enough,try brownish black.Waterproof mascara may be necessary for sports and outdoor activities in warm weather. It stays on longer and doesn't run,but it's harder to take off. It's best to keep makeup to a minimum and you won't have to worry about undesired smearing.If you're going to use an eyeliner,a pencil liner looks more natural than liquid liner.Learn to apply it with a steady hand for straight lines,and blot it with tissue if you get it on too dark.

Blush

Liquid and stick blush are popular choices for teens because they glide on smoothly and blend in well.Pinks and peaches compliment almost any skin tone. Apply to the apple ofyour cheeks and blend outwards,towards your hairline.

Lips

For luscious lips,lip gloss does the trick.If you want to add some color to your lips for a nighttime look,try a lipstick in a sheer color.For extra shine,put the lip gloss on over your lipstick.Always have a lip balm handy for chapped lips.

As with any makeup,blending is the key.Check your makeup in daylight if possible and don't be afraid to swipe off any access with a tissue.If you ever experience any skin irritation,quit using makeup immediately until you find out what the problem is.Consult your dermatologist for the best remedy.

Sunday, October 26, 2008

Please Keep Jennifer and Julia Hudson in your prayers




Note:Unfourtunately Julian King has been found deceased in Jason Hudson SUV. He was shot. Again please continue to pray for the Hudson family.

I know first hand about tragedy and a missing love one.I ask that everyone keep Julia in your prayers. I can tell you from first hand experience these are very trying times for her right now. The publics involvement is so important right now in finding her son.She not only lost her mother and brother. She is grieving for her missing son.I ask that you continue to pray that he will be brought home safely. And also pray for their strength in dealing with the death of their mother and brother.

Friday, October 24, 2008

Beauty and Grooming Tips for Men


While doing some research, I was surprised to find out how many guys are searching for beauty advice and grooming tips.Women aren't the only ones who care about their appearance!In today's world men are not afraid to make themselves more attractive by using personal care products.You're already gorgeous,but why not help nature out a bit and boost your ego?Some of these beauty and grooming tips are basic,while others go beyond a siimple hair cut.Choose what's right for you and pamper yourself.Don't forget to check out the beauty tips for women,nobody will ever know.Men's Grooming Tips...Keep your fingernails trimmed and clean.Same for toenails.Trim your nose hairs occasionally.What you're used to,others may notice.If you don't iron your clothes,remove them immediately from the dryer so wrinkles don't set.In hot weather,wear light colored,cotton clothing and socks.This will absorb less heat and "sweat stains" will be less visible.Consider trimming your arm pit hairs in warm weather.Less hairs,less bacteria,less smell.Think about it.Don't be reluctant to trim or tweeze any stray eyebrow hairs.Good dental hygiene means a dazzling smile.Brush your tongue when you brush your teeth.Your tongue attracts bacteria and can cause bad breath.

Skin Care

-Wear sunglasses outside,not only will the sun damage the skin around your eyes,constant squinting will leave permanent creases over time.
-Fake a tan,use sunless tanning lotion.
-Men need moisturizers and sunscreen just as much as the opposite gender.If you don't have a skin care regimen,start now.
-Quit smoking and restore your healthy glow.
-Never pick a mole.If one looks suspicious or is bothersome,your dermatologist can remove it with a very simple procedure.
-Visit your dermatologist annually for a complete examination.
-Use a concealer for blemishes.Men do this all the time.Just don't think about the "make up" word.
-If you're prone to acne and breakouts, wash your face twice a day with antibacterial soap.
-Use a toner to remove excess oil and shine on your face.
-Use a lip balm outdoors to prevent chapped lips.

Tuesday, October 21, 2008

Plus Size Fashions,Clothing Shopping Tips for Curvy Women



Just because you're a large women doesn't mean that you have to wear the boring,ultra drab clothing that's commonly available. Our average dress size is going up and there's an increasing number of women who want to look fashionable and chic without looking frumpy. Fortunately,designers are listening to consumers and are creating attractive, plus size fashions for women. still,it's difficult to find larger clothing in many areas of the country or they're very limited.What's more daunting,is choosing suitable styles that will disguise flaws(we all have them)and help us look slimmer.The following tips will help you choose the most flattering clothing when out shopping.

Make sure it fits..One of the main problems women have is wearing clothing that doesn't fit properly.Too loose and it adds bulk,too tight and bulges are showing.Make sure you use the fitting room and check your back for bulges.Know the stores return policy before buying.Smart manufactures pre-shrink their garments so look for this on the tags.

Wear updated garments..Undergarments are the "foundation" on which we wear our clothing.Weight fluctuates and it may be necessary to shop frequently or keep two sizes on hand.Underwear that gives proper support and minimizes budges will make you look ten times better.

Check the length..Longer blouses and shirts are more flattering,plus they're very much in style right now.In style or not,they'll help elongulate and cover your mid section.For those that fall well below the hips,define your waist with a belt,sash,or scarf.

Avoid patterns..Of course,not all patterns are evil,but many of them are too busy and will make you appear larger,small patterns in particular.Favorite designs aside,stick with monochrome or two colors.

Choose handbags wisely..Depending on what you need to carry,try to choose a medium to large handbag or tote.Smaller purses have a tendency to look puny on a large woman and thus,make her appear larger than what she really is.Find something that will accommodate what you need to carry and have space to spare.

Shop online..The internet is a vast resource for plus size clothing.The trick is finding a store you're comfortable with.Check stores and familiarize yourself with their styles and size charts.Not all clothing is created equal and sizes vary by brand.Always measure yourself first and again,check return policies.

Auctions..You can find new and used clothing on online auctions such as ebay.It's amazing how many people buy garments and don't wear them because they don't fit or they don't like how it looks on them.Because of this,you can get some great deals.What's good about used,near new clothing is that its been washed and already pre shrunk for you.People who sell clothing through auctions regularly are those easiest to buy from.They will have all the information you need listed on the page and will often include detailed measurements.If you don't see these,ask the seller to measure it for you,from armpit,and top of shoulder to bottom of hem(for shirts or dresses.)Your best luck will be when these measurements match up with something you already own that fits you well.Find your favorite garments,measure them,and write the results down for future reference.

Monday, October 20, 2008

Common Beauty Myths


Beauty myths are often no more than old adages that are handed down to each generation. Some of these misconceptions are centuries old. While logic doesn't seem to play a big factor in beauty myths,they're still abundant.These common beauty myths are pure fiction and deserve to take their place in the "beauty myth hall of shame."

Soap is bad for your skin...Older formulas contained animal fat and vegetable oils.Newer soaps are formulated to be milder and some contain moisturizers that don't dry out your skin.Clean skin is better than dirty skin.

Shaving your legs will make your hair grow in thicker..You have as many hairs as is genetically determined,regardless of whether you shave them.However,shaving can make hairs appear "stubbier" and perhaps thicker.

Drinking a lot of water leads to beautiful skin...While drinking water is necessary for our bodies, too much will only result in bloating and too many trips to the bathroom.

Split ends can be repaired..The only way to rid of split ends is to cut them off and prevent them in the future with good hair care.

Dry skin causes wrinkles..Not true.Most wrinkles are caused from the sun.

You can wash acne and pimples away...Scrubbing too vigorously will increase oil production and only aggravate the condition.

The sun clears up blemishes..While the sun will temporarily dry out pimples,it interferes with healthy skin cells.This can cause a worse breakout a couple days after sun exposure.

Stick to one brand and line of products..This beauty myth was probably put out by cosmetic manufacturers who want to keep customers loyal to their brand.

Antiperspirants can cause cancer ..This theory makes its rounds on the internet and you may find this in your inbox. There is no evidence linking antiperspirants and breast cancer.

It's too late to start using sunscreen..It's never too late to start protecting skin from the sun.The cumulative effect of the sun is whats damaging,so by avoiding it,you could halt some of its progress.Furthermore there is clinical evidence that once you start protecting the skin,it has the ability to repair itself.This repair is not going to happen over night;its a gradual process that can take a couple of years to yield significant results.

Applying cocoa butter or olive oil will stop stretch marks..Sadly this isn't true. Stretch marks occur when skin expands quickly(as in pregnancy)breaking the collagen and elastic fibers that normally support it.Stretch marks are formed below the top layer of skin,where the cocoa butter and olive oil can't reach.The most either can do is quell the itching that occurs when skin expands.

Natural ingredients are non allergenic..Whether its natural or chemical ingredient,if you're allergic to it,you'll see a reaction.

Chocalate and greasy foods cause acne..No one food has been proven to cause breakouts.If you find a correlation,quit eating that particular food.

You can shrink the pores on your face..Your pore size is genectically determined.Pores may appear larger by bacteria and dead skin cells.Retin-A and alpha hydroxys are designed to break up these materials and bring the pores back to their original apperance.

Wednesday, October 15, 2008

Shaving Tips for Men



Whether you use an electric or traditional razor,these shaving tips and advice for men will help you get the closest shave possible with the least amount of discomfort.If you're one of those guys who look sexy with a one day beard growth,plan ahead and shave the day before a special occasion preferably not a business meeting!To find out how quick it grows,do some testing.Write down when you shave and growth results several hours later to find out what suits you best. If your beard is graying and you're not happy with it,there are many do it yourself products available specifically to color beards,moustaches and sideburns. Shaving with an Electric Razor. Electric shavers are still men's #1 choice for the quickest and easiest shave,but they're harsher on your skin than traditional razors.You will see better results if you use an electric razor on a dry face and pull your skin as tight as possible.If you're prone to blemishes,stick with an electric razor.Shaving with a blade will increase your irritation and will make you more prone to breakouts.
Do not shave over a sink of water!You know electricity and water are a dangerous combination,but if you dropped your razor in the water,you may reach in to grab it by reflex.Maintain and oil your electric razor according to the instructions.This will keep it in top shape and help you avoid any wear and tear on your face. Traditional and Disposable Razors. Men favor traditional razors in the hot summer months as they appear to be more affective.The best razors now come with pivotal heads that simplifies the shaving process around curves and will probably produce less nicks.Remember to keep your blades sharp to reduce irritation.Before you shave with a traditional razor,take a shower or apply a warm washcloth to your face to soften your beard.Apply shaving cream to your face to soften your beard.Apply shaving cream to your face when it's still wet.Pull your skin tight and shave with the grain of your hair growth.Throughout the process,dip your razor in hot water to rinse and when you're finished.Moisturize your face with a soothing lotion specifically designed for after shaving. Read the ingredients before you make a purchase.Some aftershave lotions still contain alcohol,will sting your face and result in a drying affect. Be sure that you trim the scraggly hairs at the base of your neck for a well groomed look. And remember keep your beard,moustache and sideburns neat and trim.The unkept look just isn't attractive!!!

Monday, October 13, 2008

Men's Fashion Tips and Style Ideas


When it comes to wardrobe and fashion many guys don't realize that clothing does indeed "make the man". What you wear is just as important to others as to yourself. To be takened seriously in today's society, a first impression does matter significantly.If you want to be noticed favorably by both women and men,I've got some basic fashion and style tips to help you dress up to your potential.Keep in mind,even the most expensive clothing line won't flatter you if you slouch.Stand up straight and carry yourself with pride.If you respect yourself,others will too. Wear clothes that fit.Why not look good today,instead of some unspecified day in the future, when you gain or lose a few pounds...and will it really happen? When you're shopping, buy clothes that are comfortable. If you need something altered,visit your tailor. Find out what works for you.Take a good look in the mirror and you'll begin to understand what colors and styles look the best on you. It's OK to try something new,but classics outlive trends. Maintain your clothing.Don't wear soiled or wrinkled clothes. Stick to fabrics that resist wrinkling or learn how to use an iron. Suits and formal wear should be taken to the dry cleaner to be cleaned and pressed. Stripes- Not the best choice.It's best to stay away from horizontal stripes, unless your tall and lean.Most stripes are flattering,and the horizontal ones add bulk,can make you appear heavier and shorter.Solid colors are a good choice and dark,solids will make you look slimmer. Keep it simple.Loud bright colors and patterns can make you look ridiculous.You can't go wrong with basic black and navy blue for work or casual,it's classic for a reason.You can add other attractive colors for a perfect match. Get rid of old clothes.Don't be stuck in the "good ole days." If it's out of style,don't wear it anymore.If you can't imagine parting with it,store it.Trends run their cycles and you may once again be able to wear your favorite garments,but only when they're popular. Keep short sleeves for casual.Don't show up for a job interview or business meeting in a short sleeved shirt.Formal and business attire always include long sleeves and a tie.Men Accessory Tips:- Your belt and shoe color should match.- Make sure your shoes are comfortable.- Keep your shoes in tip top shape by polishing them regularly.- A shoe tree will help keep less worn shoes in their shape.- Only lace up shoes are appropriate with a suit. Save the boots for leisure.- Your socks should match your shoes.- Your tie should reach the top of your belt.- Wear a belt that fits. The prong should fit into one of the middle holes, not the first or last one.- Do not wear a belt and suspenders at the same time.- Apply cologne before getting dressed to avoid any direct stains.- Remember, good posture adds height and self confidence.

Thursday, October 9, 2008

Jean Fit Guide






Okay here we go....Drumroll...Ladies this jean guide is going to change how you wear jeans forever. Take this guide and be free of all the drama of finding the best pair of jeans for your body type. Flat Bums. Try a tapered leg or skinny jean to make your bum more noticeable. Even small kitten heels will add curves to your profile, a tall heel will work wonders.Flap pockets will add dimension. Booty Beauty. Look for stretch denim with a fitted waist. Stick to darker washes that have an all over slimming affect. Many denim manufactures make a specific style to flatter a shapely butt with a narrower waist. Find out which cut is right for you in the brand you desire. Petite & Chic.Skinny jeans are perfect, just stick to linear cuts like straight leg and cigarette leg. Stay away from pencil or peg legs which tapers at the bottom. If you are short and want to minimize curves, choose a straight, wide leg trouser cut. Jeans that fit like a tailored pair of trousers will give you an overall sleek and polished look. Top your look off with an amazing pair of heels.Need hemming? Ask your tailor for an "original hem" and your unique hem will stay intact. Tall Models. Look for a low rise with an longer seam(36"at least).The denim industry has recently started making jeans longer so check out new styles and brands! Short Waists. Choose a jean with a low waist to lengthen the torso(7.5"rise or less).Jeans with long pockets or pockets placed lower balance proportions.Avoid high waisted jeans that will make the torso look shorter. Long Waists. Look for a regular to high rise jean. Stay away from low rises, try to get at least 8" of rise to make legs look longer. Pretty Pear. Look for a dark, clean wash.Too much fading and distressing will widen your shape. A straight leg or slight bootcut will keep legs looking lean. Stay away from a tapered or pencil leg. A sleek trouser cut jean will work wonders!Skinny jeans can work, just choose cigarette and straight leg cuts.Wear a heel to add height and lengthen legs. Also balance out the thigh with a substantial shoe like a fierce boot. Okay being an African American woman i face the same dilema that every minority woman faces(typically hispanic and african american).Jeans that don't fit our curvy hips and shapely bums. So the question everyone asks is "What company makes the best jeans for our shape?" Well their are many great companies out there that do cater to our shapely figures. You just have to take your time and find the best brands for you. But my personal best is..... PZI jeans.Its like they made their jeans just for me. Checkout their website www.pzijeans.com. Now go and buy some jeans!!! Remember leave your comments on the blog. Each topic has its own comments at the bottom at the page.So holla at your girl!!!

Wednesday, October 8, 2008

How To Choose The Best Fitting Jeans For Your Figure


By far, blue jeans are the most important clothing in today's wardrobe. Because they are durable and can be worn with just about anything, they are universal. Why is it that you have one or two favorite pairs that you wear most of the time? It's probably because you have ran across a style and color that looks best on your shape. Unfortunately, they eventually wear out, you gain or lose a few pounds, or you throw them out for a new trend. If you would rather go to the dentist then shop for new jeans, you're not alone. Just the thought of trying on multiple pairs of jeans in the fitting rooms can make the strongest of us cringe in fear.Well fear no more!! I've got some shopping tips to help you find a pair that will flatter your figure and cut down on the stress involved when you find a pair that looks great on the rack, but not so good on you. No more days of your underwear showing when you sit down. Ladies everyone of us has experienced the dreadful experience of our thongs or panties showing when we sit down. Plan ahead:Set aside a good chunk of time when you begin your quest for a good pair of jeans. If you're in a hurry, you'll probably make some bad decisions and end up returning the jeans to the store. Choose a Good Fit:Don't buy jeans just because the size on the label looks good. Sizes and cuts vary widely by the brand, so start with your general size range and don't be reluctant to choose a size larger than what you usually get. A comfortable pair of jeans that fit well will look the best on you. The Darker the Color,the better:If you're concerned about extra weight, stay away from light colored or stonewashed jeans. Dark(indigo) blue and black denim jeans with some added Lycra make you look slimmer and will go with just about anything. Choose angled back pockets to help minimize your backside and stay away from jeans that have no pockets at all.Look for a Long Hem:When you go shopping, wear a pair of shoes with heels that are (at least) similar to what you usually wear with jeans. For thinner looking legs, the hem of the jeans should cover a good part of your shoes and almost reach the floor.Keep in mind that when jeans shrink, so can the length-- so it's better to go with the longer pair. Go with the Boot Cut:Stay away from large flare legs that will add bulk. Boot cut jeans have just the right amount of curve at the bottom of the legs to look stylish and make your legs appear longer.Trends are OK:If you've been dying to try a pair of low rise hipsters, go ahead. Just make sure you're comfortable wearing them and they aren't so low that you've got too much showing. Wear a pair of thongs or bikini panties underneath so you don't have "granny panties" ruining your fashionable look.Get a second opinion:Take along a friend who is on the same mission. Sometimes a different perspective is all you need to point you in the right direction. If you both like how a pair looks on you, chances are, it's a good choice. Check out the next blog where I will have a jean fit guide so you can go out and put all of this new info to use. Remember Jean Power!!!

Monday, October 6, 2008

Beauty Blunders



Beauty Blunders are common mistakes women make and usually do not even realize it. Do you fall into this category? Listed here are top beauty blunders that can ruin your overall apperance and send you running for cover. If you find yourself here, the solutions are pretty easy. Don't feel bad. It can happen to the best of us...Common Beauty Mistakes. Neglecting your overall apperance.Even if nobody is going to see you, good hygiene and your overall apperance plays a large role in your self-esteem. Bad oral hygiene.You may not notice your teeth because you're not looking at them, but your smile is one of the first things people notice about you. Keep your teeth brushed and flossed. It's healthy and attractive. Forgetting your hands. Soften your hands with lotion and keep your fingernails clean. Top this off with a great manicure. If you have beautiful rings, why put them on mangy hands.- Over-plucking your eyebrows. Don't get carried away when plucking your eyebrows. Take your time and buy an eyebrow stencil if necessary. If you make a mistake, use an eyebrow or eyeliner pencil the same color as your eyebrows to fill in sparse areas. Not shaving your legs. Keep your legs smooth and soft, especially when wearing shorts or a skirt.Top Makeup Blunders...Heavy foundation and other makeup applied to heavily, will cheapen your look, clog your pores, and accentuate fine lines and wrinkles. Not blending in your makeup. Always blend in your makeup to soften those lines. Foundation, eye shadow and blush are all to be smoothed in for a natural look. Not cleaning your makeup applicators and brushes. Applicators and brushes should be cleaned at least bi-weekly. Oil and bacteria build-up can wreak havoc. If you're prone to pimples, you'll be surprised how much this strategy works. Using too dark lip liner. Don't use lip liner that is darker or lighter than your lips. When the lipstick wears off, you're left with a dark ring around your mouth. Try using lip liner that matches your lips and fill in your entire lip area. Leaving makeup on overnight. We've all done this, but at what cost? Leaving make-up on for long periods of time clogs your pores and makes you more prone to blemishes. Don't do it, believe me you'll thank me for it. Crooked or uneven liquid eyeliner. If you choose to use liquid eyeliner, the trick is practice and a steady hand. If you can't keep your lines even, opt for an eye liner pencil.Hair Mistakes..Dark roots. If you color your hair,plan on maintenance. This means touching up your roots as they grow out. Pulling your hair too tight. Leave some slack when pulling your hair back into a ponytail or bun. If it's too tight, it looks strict and may even give you a headache. And the number one hair blunder is thinking the hair color sample on the box will give you the same results. Many factors play into the outcome of your hair color. Perms, other processing, and the amount of time you leave it in will all make a difference. If your hair doesn't match the box's sample color when you're done, it's probably because the model has a different natural hair color than your own.


The Face Doctor