5 Health Things To Be Wary Of As You Near 50

In the US alone, over 108.7 million people are 50 plus, inclusive of 76.4 million baby boomers, according to AARP. This figure is likely to add another 19 million over the course of the next decade.

AARP, a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization empowering people to select how they live as they get older, also reported that 51 percent of Americans think they actually look younger than their age.

As you draw nearer to the fifth floor, staying physically and mentally active can help keep you healthier, fit, and well, younger.

However, the aging process is different from individuals, as lifestyle plays a huge role. This doesn’t mean that you won’t experience some obvious changes in your mental and physical health.

However, you can take some early measures to ensure your aging body is going strong well into your later years in life.

Here are some things about your health that you need to be wary of as you near 50.

1. Respiratory problems

This is a common problem as you age, especially if the body suffers a disorder or infection.

When this happens, phlegm accumulates in the throat, irritates the air passages creating discomfort, and triggers coughing to expel the mucus.

Phlegm is usually white in color, but there are different other occurrences that present in different colors such as green, yellow, or mixed with blood.

If you’re coughing up green mucus chunks, it may be that there’s a bacterial infections in your lungs or bronchi, or a post nasal drip from a sinus infection.

This can be cured by avoiding foods like dairy, starchy food, and excess meat. Be sure to drink plenty of water, herbal teas, eat spicy foods, and take hot baths as home remedies.

2. Kidney problems

Once you hit your 50s, you have to come to terms with the fact that you can’t eat in the same way you did when you were younger.

Your activity levels decline with age, so there are things you did before that you may not be able to do with ease owing to bodily changes and aging.

Among the problems that may come include kidney disease, owing to a diet that contains uric acid foods.

Foods high in uric acid like red meat, seafood like fatty fish such as herring, tuna, lobsters, alcoholic drinks, and certain vegetables like lentils, mushrooms and more are to be avoided.

Some kidney problems like kidney stones form due to excess uric acid crystals that form stones and deposit them in the kidney. This causes extreme pain when one attempts to pass urine as the stones are trapped in the uterus.

Get serious about your diet, and make sure you get foods rich in fiber, protein, vitamin D, calcium, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamin B-12.

Stay hydrated. Eliminate junk food from your diet, and trade chips, cookies, and cake for nuts, veggies and fruit. Also be cautious about what you eat when dining out. 

3. Eyesight

Ruth D. Williams, Clinical spokesperson for the American Academy of Ophthalmology says that when you need reading glasses, it’s one of the most annoying signs that signal ‘you really are aging’.

Williams adds that this is the first irreversible sign of aging, unlike others that can be managed like weight gain.

Look out for diseases like glaucoma, which can develop before you realize it. Others include early cataracts, trouble seeing while driving at night, decreased vision, flashes and floaters in the eye, pain, and redness.

A baseline eye exam usually done at age 40 is the best place to start with age-related eye care. Most signs of eye disease are subtle, which is why this exam serves as an important first step.

All the above signs should prompt a visit to your eye doctor, as they may indicate underlying problems like retinal detachment, or early indications of cataracts.

Other precautionary measures you can take is wearing sunglasses that offer 100 percent UV-rays protection, quitting smoking and avoiding second-hand smoke.

Protecting your eyes from the sun’s rays helps prevent cataracts and macular degeneration while protecting the fine skin around your eyes to reduce chances of getting wrinkles.

Eating vegetables like leafy greens, and fruits is also good for better eye health.

4. Heart problems

Aging also has an impact on your heart, but it isn’t as obvious as gray hair or wrinkles.

However, you need as much maintenance to take care of your heart, as you do for other aspects of your health. This is because the risk of heart disease and other related issues increases with age, especially for women.

Nieca Goldberg, MD, a cardiologist at NYU Langone Medical Center and National Volunteer Spokesperson for the American Heart Association, says women “become more insulin resistant” after menopause. 

For this reason, they need to stay away from sugar and carbs. If they can’t avoid it completely, natural substitutes and a rainbow diet is recommended. 

Goldberg suggests that women follow the Mediterranean diet that emphasizes veggies, fruits, oily fish, legumes, nuts, fiber-rich whole grains, and healthy oils like olive oil.

Read more: Click here for a free 7 day Mediterranean Meal Plan e-book.

As you draw closer to your 50s, be aware of heart attack and stroke symptoms to save your life. Not everyone experiences sudden numbness or severe chest pain during stroke or heart attacks respectively.

Goldberg says that for women, the tightness that comes with a heart attack can happen anywhere like left, right, or lower down. This can easily be dismissed as a stomachache.

5. Colon issues

It is important to know the best time to schedule a colonoscopy, unlike most people who think about it when they hit 50.

A colonoscopy is a procedure in which doctors examine the colon for polyps which could signal early signs of cancer of the colon.

In this procedure, the doctor sedates the patient for a painless process and then inserts a long, lighted tube – colonoscopy – to examine the colon.

If discovered early enough, colon cancer is preventable and treatable, but the symptoms are rare until the later and deadlier stages of the disease.

Colon cancer, according to the Colon Cancer Alliance, is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer, and the second leading cause of cancer death in people living in the US.

Almost 90 percent of new cases occur in people aged above 50 years, and starts small, with a slow-growing growth in the colon that could progress into cancer if unchecked.

Summary

Did you know that over 40% of American adult population between 40 to 59 is suffering from obesity today? This is alarming, to say the least. 

Each passing decade ushers you into a new stage of life complete with its own priorities and unique challenges. 

Checking on your health as you inch closer to a new decade is extremely vital. If you were taking it easy all this while, 50th birthday is the time to make some quick resolutions. 

About the author

Jenny Travens is a creative writer who has many passions and interests. Health and wellness is one area where she likes to contribute as much as she can. She has long been associated with Superfoodsliving.

Twitter – @jennytravens

5 Global Beauty Industry Trends for 2019

With non-stop product drops and new tech launches, it’s really hard for an average person to keep up with beauty trends. So, if you don’t want to read through hundreds of pages of new research and marketplace statistics, here are the top five beauty industry trends that stood out in 2019 on a global level.

Personalized products

You know how you go to a hardware store, pick from thousands of unique wall paint colors and get your perfect shade mixed right in front of you, just for you? Well, you can do that now with your foundation! Many women complain about how they can’t find a shade that fits their face, especially women of color, but those days are over. Companies like L’Oreal are introducing custom-made foundations that use AI to scan your skin and provide you with the exact match for your face. Right now, there are over 72,000 combinations the computer can choose from and once your match is selected, a machine mixes your personalized foundation for you. Pretty neat!

J-Beauty

K-beauty is trill going strong with its one-of-a-kind routines, but other Asian countries are also breaking the western market. Today, Japan, in particular, is getting more and more attention when it comes to their beauty products and skincare routines. Japan is a country that has strongly rooted beauty rituals yet uses simple regimens that employ multi-purpose products and foods that support skin health. For all those aforementioned reasons, many people choose to adopt this minimalistic, luxurious yet effective approach to beauty, so J-beauty is really flourishing, especially in 2019.

Effective cosmetic treatments

Individuals who want instant and huge results can still turn to cosmetic treatment. But, unlike before, you don’t have to go under the knife right away if you want to remove some of those stubborn wrinkles or blemishes. Salons that deal in cosmetic beauty are now a one-stop-shop and offer various top-notch treatments from injectables to cosmetic tattooing (you can even get in touch with companies such as Tattoo Stylist and they can design the tattoo design you want).. All of these treatments are minimally invasive which means you’ll recover quickly and be able to continue with your life looking fresh. These salons also offer professional consultations, so if you have any questions about your skin or your beauty routine, you’ll know where to turn.

Healthy beauty

Customers today are much more informed and aware of the connection between what we eat and how that affects our external beauty. So, it’s not a surprise that people ask for more transparency when it comes to products, but are also turning to beauty edibles and products that work both internally and externally.

Sustainable products

Finally, the beauty industry is united in one thing: reducing pollution! The impact of plastic pollution is huge and now is the right time to be more thoughtful when it comes to packaging and formulation refinement. For instance, Lush, one of the biggest beauty and wellness product manufacturers, is starting the movement of “naked” cosmetics by making everything from soaps to shampoos in solid form so that they can reduce packaging and waste. The brand even opened its first-ever zero packaging store in the UK! Waterless beauty is also taking over. Water is one of the most wasted resources in the beauty industry and there’s a concern that water demand could outstrip the supply. For that reason, giants like L’Oreal and Unilever are pledging to reduce water consumption in the manufacturing process of their products by more than 50% by 2020!

What’s great is that we can see a move in the right direction when it comes to beauty. Consumers crave healthier treatments and products that offer transparency and various wellness benefits, not just beauty benefits. Hopefully, in the next few years, we’ll move even further away from any negative stereotypes of the beauty industry.

Latest Swimwear Trends

Summer is just around the corner which calls for some wardrobe makeovers. This is especially true when it comes to your swimsuits, as the trends this year will make you want to get them all! Try to practice some self-control when you go shopping for the summer season, and you’ll be fine. If you want to prepare yourself for the challenges of shopping fever though, it’s important to know the biggest swimwear trends of the year, so that you can firmly decide what style(s) you’ll go for.

1. Underwire Tops

Last year, loose and sporty kind of crop tops have been all the rage, but this year, that rage is focused on something more structured – underwire tops. This will make all the generously chested ladies quite happy as these underwire tops provide great support.

2. High-cut bottoms

Just like the underwire tops, high-cut bottoms are making a comeback. These will be the perfect choice for ladies who wish to accentuate their legs. What’s more, the 80s vibe is very popular right now, which means that high-cut bottoms won’t only make you sexy but fashionable as well.

3. Rings, hoops, and belts

Strings and fringe are still popular, but this year, rings, hoops, and belts are taking the stage when it comes to the swimsuit popularity contest. These details seem to be the go-to swimwear accessory and they definitely make an impact. If you like the edgier yet very fashionable look these carefully detailed swimsuit designs provide you with, don’t hesitate to get yourself one (or maybe more).

4. Sporty style

Sporty swimsuits are getting a makeover this season. Unlike the last year’s casual and only sporty-like swimsuits that were hugely popular, this year it’s all about the true designer sports swimwear – spruced up to look absolutely amazing. After all, once you check what’s in store, the refined and clean cuts, comfy material, unique patterns, and bold colors will definitely make you want to go sporty even though you may not be an athletic gal at all.

5. Metallic craze

Lurex and shimmery fabrics have taken the world of swimwear by storm. After all, you can never shine too much these days. The metallic swimsuits can be found in all cuts and designs, so, if you’re a fan of this particular trend, you’ll be happy to start your search.

6. The romantic movement

Lovers of all things boho and delicate will thoroughly enjoy what the swimsuit market has to offer this year. To complete your beach look, you’ll only need to sweeten things up a little bit, and the trendy puckered fabrics, smocking, and ruched texture swimsuits are undoubtedly a great way to do just that. Together with frills and embroidered details, you can make sure that your personality stands strong even with so little fabric.

7. Wild animal print

If animal print is your thing, you’ll be thrilled to know that swimwear trends this year won’t disappoint you. Quite the contrary, you can only expect a complete burst of the wildest animal prints you can think of. As you can guess, animal prints will decorate all sorts of swimsuit styles and designs, as well as sarongs, so that you can spice up your beach look just the way you like it.

Have you found the ideal cut and shape of swimsuit for your particular body type? If you have, you’re in luck. Since you already know what looks best on you, you get to pick and choose among different swimwear trends with ease. Knowing what looks the most flattering on your particular body shape won’t only make almost all of your shopping endeavors a success, but it will also make you feel more confident.

Top Treatments at Skin & Dermatology Clinics

Skin and dermatology clinics today are gaining a growing amount of attention and recognition because of how they improve procedures that help with specific skin issues. People are now engaging in various treatments and comprehensive approaches to not just enhance their skin but to also experience optimal customized care.

The skin is considered the largest organ in the human body, and it can be prone to many diseases, age-related changes, and harmful environmental conditions. Though certain conditions can be easily treated at home, there are instances that require a specialist’s care.

With that, there are standard procedures performed in clinics that significantly helps in treating various conditions. Determining the best approach to management and treatment is the first goal of a professional clinic. That being said, here are the top treatments that are provided at skin and dermatology clinics.

Skin Biopsy

It might be a nerve-wracking situation when you have an upcoming biopsy. A skin biopsy is a highly-effective and secure method to identify whether a mole, skin growth and other skin condition have the probability of being or becoming cancerous.

The procedure determines additional medical problems and provides a unique window in the autonomic nervous system. During the process, the doctor will inject anesthesia in the designated area and slowly takes out a sample of cells or skin from the area of concern of your skin.

A dermatopathologist then examines the sample and will identify whether your condition is cancerous. Moreover, there are different techniques to execute a skin biopsy, namely, punch biopsy, shave biopsy, and excisional biopsy.

Cryosurgery

Cryosurgery is the process of using liquid nitrogen to destroy and freeze single and multiple growths. Cryosurgery is typically used for damaging problem tissues in the body, precancerous lesions, tumors, and most especially, warts. The procedure when not done properly has various risks such as infections, blisters, scarring, sexual dysfunction, etc.

Fillers and Injections

To most women, fillers and injections are the first treatments they usually undergo in achieving a younger look. Most clinics perform these procedures as it is as a safe and non-invasive process that helps improves the appearance of the patient giving off a natural and more youthful look.

The most common fillers and injection procedures performed by dermatologists are Botox and Juvederm. Botox is a non-invasive and safe procedure that enhances the frown lines between your brows, as well as crows feet and forehead creases.

On the other hand, Juvederm is also a non-surgical procedure that is used for lip augmentation and smoothing facial wrinkles. The secure process also reinstates the skin’s hydration and replenish the skin’s natural volume.

CoolSculpting

We all know how frustrating it is to have excess fat and your clothes don’t fit the way it used to before. Fortunately, clinics now obtain the answer to those kinds of problems. CoolSculpting is an excellent fat reduction treatment and is the only FDA approved cooling technology that eliminates fat bulges without exerting physical efforts through exercise and diet.

Chemical Peels

Most women and men are investing in the chemical peels procedure as it helps in regenerating the appearance of the skin on the face. The radiant and glowing skin is slowly fading away as you age, with that, the customized chemical peel will reveal its inner glow.

During the process, a mild chemical solution is applied to your skin. The solution then helps in removing whiteheads, blackheads, and dead skin cells. Beyond that, the solution also helps in unclogging the pores, treating sun-damaged skin and some types of acne.

Hair Transplants

Experiencing hair loss, thinning hair, and baldness is disheartening. Hair loss, however, doesn’t have to be permanent. Clinics are now offering non-surgical hair restoration that can help in restoring not just your hair, but also your confidence.

Moreover, hair loss is considered as a psychological issue that is caused by a particular condition that significantly affects the physical and mental well-being of a person. By undergoing a hair transplant, it helps you to improve your self-image as well as permanently eliminates balding.

Hair transplant is only a one-day procedure that involves acquiring hair follicles from a donor area on the patient’s scalp and transplanting them on the area where the hair is balding and thinning.

Takeaway

Skin issues are a debilitating and common problem that people often encounter. With the advancement of technology, an increasing amount of treatments are provided by dermatology & cosmetic skin clinic in Winnipeg MB and other centers to help individuals with skin conditions. The top therapies mentioned above are one way to eradicate the complicated issues as well as achieving healthy skin.

Top 5 Oils to Make Your Skin Glow

The best oils for skin are those that are rich in antioxidants and contain no chemical ingredients that may irritate the skin. Natural essential oils prove useful when it comes to alleviating a wide range of skin ailments and leaving your skin healthy and glowing. Typically, these oils entail concentrated levels of omega fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins that nourish and protect the skin against pollution and environmental damage.

Oils like sweet almond, avocado, and jojoba help to moisturize the dehydrated skin, whereas apricot kernel, camellia, and rosehip have anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce skin redness. It is also useful to consider oils that contain detoxifying properties – such as algae extract and carrot oil – that help to combat the detrimental effects of toxins. To streamline your decision-making process, read these top 5 oils to make your skin glow.

Ostrich Oil

Ancient cultures used ostrich oil as a cosmetic to remedy such things as burns and lesions. The ostrich oil benefits are diverse regarding skin protection. Ostrich oil contains Omega 3, 6, and 9 fatty acids that have therapeutic benefits for the skin, heart, hair, and even nails. It is pure natural oil that not only treats skin ailments but also has anti-fungal properties, anti-aging effects, and skin moisturizing properties.

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is loaded with vitamin E that proves useful as far as moisturizing the skin is concerned. This oil is also full of fatty acids, which can as well moisturize the skin. Coconut oil is a natural source of anti-fungal and antibacterial properties that can give skin protection against the elements – great for use during harsh winter months.

Carrot Seed Oil

Carrot seed oil refers to amber-colored oil derived from the carrot seeds. It is an excellent product that can heal dry and damaged skin as well as wrinkled skin. Applying a product with carrot seed oil – especially during those winter months – can heal cracked skin and give it a glow. Most importantly, this type of oil is ideal for both dry and oily complexions.

Geranium Oil

Geranium is one of the best essential oils that is famous for regulating oil production and balancing skin PH. Geranium is the real solution to dry or oily skin, which adds moisture to dry skin while regulating oil production on oily skin. This oil works in more or less the same way as a facial tone, whose job is to balance the PH of the skin. Geranium is an excellent choice for any skin type because it possesses the ability to bring balance – it gives your skin exactly what it needs.

Sweet Almond Oil

Sweet almond oil is rich in vitamin E and monounsaturated fats that are excellent for both skin and hair. Since it is mild, it is great for overall softness and conditioning. Almond oil is also hypoallergenic, which means it remains a remarkable choice for oil cleansing. Add a few drops of essential oil to sweet almond oil and apply it on sun-damaged skin.

 

Why Going Gluten-Free May Be the Right Choice for You

It’s no secret that what we eat has a profound impact on how we feel, both physically and emotionally. The proverb “you are what you eat” didn’t stick by accident, after all. Unfortunately, not many heed this pearl of wisdom.

The problem is that people typically don’t pay all that much attention to their food and how it affects them on a daily basis. Many simply accept the symptoms of a diet that disagrees with them as a part of life, rather than try to deal with the issues that cause them.

On the bright side, there does seem to be increased awareness of the importance of a healthy nutrition plan. Gluten-free diets have been on the rise in popularity for quite some time now: just a few years ago, about one in hundred Americans reported ditching gluten.

While the reasons for this dietary decision may vary, there is one important factor for opting to go gluten-free. And this factor may be even more relevant than people think: celiac disease.

Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder that is triggered by eating anything that contains gluten. In layman’s terms, the body reacts very aggressively to gluten, and the immune system goes into overdrive, attacking the small intestine.

Celiac disease is connected to a whole host of symptoms, and how one reacts to it varies greatly from one person to the next. Some may experience mildly annoying symptoms, while others might face debilitating difficulties.

There are up to 200 symptoms related to celiac disease, so we won’t list them all here. But we will give you the most common ones, maybe even some you’re currently suffering from. These include:

  • Stomach pain

  • Bloatedness

  • “Foggy mind” (inability to think clearly and focus in general)

  • Fatigue

  • Bone or joint pain

  • Depression

  • Anxiety

  • Migraines

  • Numbness, tingling or pain in the extremities

On their own, these symptoms sound bad enough, but sadly it gets worse. Namely, few people know they have the disease. It’s estimated that only around 17 percent of Americans get diagnosed with celiac disease, leaving the vast majority of sufferers in the dark of their true condition.

One of the main reasons why so many people remain undiagnosed or misdiagnosed is because it’s difficult to determine with absolute certainty that a person is afflicted with celiac disease. Since it manifests in so many different ways, it can be easily mistaken for other disorders, and someone suffering from its symptoms may not necessarily have it.

Though celiac disease remains one of the largest concerns of gluten-related health problems, there are other disorders to be on the lookout for. Wheat allergy and non-celiac gluten sensitivity can also be troublesome to live with. It’s true that these are typically milder, but they need to be addressed nevertheless.

A lot of folks suffer from these kinds of disorders but aren’t aware of it, and a gluten-free nutrition plan can be just what they need to turn a new leaf healthwise. In order for you to learn more about the benefits of gluten-free diets, MedAlertHelp has crafted this great infographic on the topic.

Virtually everything you need about the perks of a glutenless diet is in this gluten guide, and it doesn’t hold back on the stats. But don’t let that scare you, the graph is designed in a way that makes reading and remembering the numbers really easy. It takes out all the unnecessary elements and arranges them in easy-to-digest info chunks.

Top 3 Fashion Decisions for Cold Weather

If you’re a real fashion enthusiast, it’s not surprising if you tend to prefer fall and winter over summer. Making good cold-weather look requires a more refined taste and some knowledge about layering, complementary colors and other elements that make an outfit attractive and well-thought-out. On the other hand, during the summer, you can just put on some shorts and throw on a tee and you’re ready to go. That is exactly the reason why dressing up for colder weather can be tricky. Here are some great tips that will keep you warm yet well-dressed even when it’s a bit chilly outside.

Layer everything

When temperatures start to decrease, it can be very tempting to throw on a thick sweater or a cozy hoody and call it a day. These chunky pieces can sometimes make you look a bit shapeless, and they leave no space for a more complicated look construction. So, instead of aiming for simplicity, try to layer your clothing with a few thinner pieces that complement each other. For starters, opt for items that don’t have a matching length, like a t-shirt that matches your cardigan’s length will make your outfit look monotonous, while variations in length give your look an interesting vibe while accentuating your figure.

On the other hand, if you want to pay attention to any beading or other decorative accents that might stick out beneath the top piece or cause bumps underneath and disturb the overall shape of your look. Also, thicker straps and unusual necklines can be tricky to layer. If you decide to a top piece with a closed neckline (a sweater or poncho), make sure your shirt is not peeking out. In case it does, make sure that it does so with a purpose like a shirt collar or a turtleneck.

Don’t forget to match footwear

Although having only one pair of winter footwear might look practical, it means that you’ll have to adjust to various weather conditions and clothing combinations. One of the must-have items every woman should have in her possession is a pair of black boots that will fit any outfits. Ankle-high boots are a staple of every colder weather outfit. Additionally, waterproof sneakers are also very practical, especially if you prefer sporty looks.

Formal winter footwear is a bit tricky to choose because it needs to be attractive, warm and practical. Elegant boots or even closed pumps will do the trick most of the time. It’s much easier when you have your footwear because then you can play around with stockings, socks and other accessories that will change your look according to your outfit.

Choose the right accessories

Accessories are often purely aesthetical, but winter accessories also need to be practical. Think this way: if you have to wear a scarf, why don’t you also keep it as a part of your outfit once you take off your coat? One great tip is to purchase a hat, gloves and scarf sets and match them to your go-to coat. You’ll always look put-together this way, even in a hurry.

Things like pointy and bulky jewelry aren’t really practical for colder weather, because they can easily get caught on scarves and gloves and leave you with a wardrobe malfunction. Pro tip: during the winter, a belt can be your BFF. It can help you accentuate your waist and give you an alluring figure even if you’re wearing three layers of clothing under your coat!

Don’t let cold weather prevent you from looking lavish and elegant! Remember to rotate clothes in your closet, especially during the transitional period. Switching from summer wear straight to your fall and winter clothing can be quite tricky if you don’t practice good closet organization. If you tend to run cold all the time, just add another layer to your ensemble to keep you warm and insulated.

Perfect Makeup for Your Wedding Day

It’s no secret that almost every bride dreams about her wedding day and such dreams are usually very big. That is quite understandable because it is a big life-changer, but it has to be preceded by months or even years of careful planning and preparations. With so many things that need to be arranged and organized and so much that can go wrong through no fault of yours, it’s normal that some brides find the whole thing overwhelming. Still, some things depend solely on you and how well you prepare for the big day. One of them is your makeup, which is supposed to make you look prettier than ever. So, if you wish to look gorgeous and leave a great impression on everyone, including yourself, take a look at the latest trends in bridal makeup.

Photo-ops all around

 

No wedding is complete without hundreds or even thousands of pics, most of which feature the bride. You most certainly want to look great in most, if not all of them, so make sure you boost the amount and quality of your regular makeup. Still, you don’t want to go over the top, so think about foundation, highlighter and a layer of blush thicker than usual. A touch of bronze eyeshadow and some false lashes will make you look great both in person and in pictures that you’ll look back at years later.

Beautiful eyes

Eyes are said to be the mirror of the soul and on your big day, your soul should be at its best. So, apply smoky eyeshadow or a smudged liner to play up your eyes, but don’t forget that there might be some tears of joy that day. That is why your smoky eyes should work with waterworks to help you maintain your fabulous look throughout the day. Feeling adventurous? Try including charcoal or gunmetal-grey shadows. It’s really popular these days and many brides are choosing these options. Even if you think you’re sure about your choice, you can find someone at Find Book Beauty who can do your fabulous bridal makeup sometime before the big day, so that you check whether that’s really the way to go. If you are not brave enough to experiment, opt for a cat-eye and red lip, bumped up with lashes and cheekbone highlight, which provide the much-needed glamour.

Angelic, not intimidating

Nobody wants to be even slightly intimidated by the bride at a wedding. On the contrary, they want to see you radiant and you can achieve this effect with shimmery eyeshadow or iridescent highlighter. Just tap the glow on the inner corners of your eyes, on your eyelids and on top of your Cupid’s bow.

To glow or not?

If the latest royal weddings are anything to go by, it’s completely wrong to assume that you need to literally shine at your wedding. This is especially true if you feel ill at ease with so much shine and glitter. The bottom line is that it’s perfectly OK to go for a full-matte look. To boost the appearance, apply the contour deeper and have blotting papers somewhere within arm’s reach, just in case.

Bronze and gold

Bronze tones will help you achieve that natural finish and a classy yet glamorous look. You can get a similar result with a combination of copper and gold since they’ll make your face glow in a positive sense. Just make sure you apply it carefully on your cheekbones and complement the overall look with a glittery gilded eyeshadow or highlight in powder formulas.

The most important thing is that you feel great, which means you need to be happy with the way you look. Being trendy also helps leave a great impression on everyone, so try some of these tips before the big day and see if you like them.

Best Homemade Creams for all Seasons

Buying all the needed products for your skin to remain pretty can burn quite a hole in your pocket. It is simply too difficult to find one product that will offer you complete nurturing. However, you’ve probably already noticed that many of those creams have more or less similar if not the same ingredients. There is Aloe Vera, vitamin E, glycerine, squalene etc. and believe it or not, you can find all these in your own kitchen. Here are some of the best recipes for homemade creams.

Moisturizing olive oil night cream

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The main ingredient of this cream is, as said, olive oil, because it locks your skin’s moisture. The other important ingredient is coconut oil because it adds beauty and health to your skin.

Mix half a cup of extra virgin olive oil with 1 spoon beeswax together in a saucepan on low heat until it is melted. Next, crush two capsules of vitamin E and add it to the mixture. Allow it all to cool. Store the cream in a container at room temperature and use it during the next 2-3 months.

Glycerine cream

This is a great winter cream, since glycerine helps restore moisture, and the other ingredient, coconut oil, replenishes your skin’s health with its antifungal powers. On the other hand, rose water in combination with almond oil will give it a fresh appeal.

Take a double boiler and add 1 tablespoon of almond oil and a tablespoon of coconut oil in it. Heat it together so the ingredients blend completely. Remove the boiler from the head and then add 1 tablespoon of glycerine and 1 tablespoon of rose water to the mixture. Store this cream in a container and use it every night before going to bed.

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Cocoa butter wrinkle-fighting cream

This is a cream for chapped and dull skin, and also the best homemade cream for wrinkles.

Add 2 tablespoons of cocoa butter, 1 tablespoon of coconut oil and 1 tablespoon of virgin olive oil to the boiler and heat until all the ingredients are mixed properly. Next, cut the heat, allow it to cool and store it in a container. Use it as a night cream every night before bed.

Green tea detox cream

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This cream will help you remove impurities caused by pollution, and Aloe Vera in it will restore your skin’s health.

Mix 1 tablespoon of beeswax with 1 tablespoon of almond oil in a double boiler and let it boil until it melts completely. Remove the mix from the heat and add 1 tablespoon of Aloe Vera juice. Finally, add a tablespoon of green tea extract, a tablespoon of essential oil and a tablespoon of rose water and store it in a container.

Aloe Vera anti-acne cream

Aloe Vera is great for treating acne and blemishes. This cream is easily prepared and can be used daily since this plant nourishes skin and makes it soft, young and supple.

Take two tablespoons of Aloe Vera extract from the plant and mix it with 1 teaspoon of lavender oil. Add a teaspoon of primrose oil to the mix and blend it together. Store the mixture in a container.

Skin lightening cream

Turmeric is known as an old remedy for various conditions, while sandalwood and saffron add to its benefits. Yogurt makes it smooth and almonds enrich it with essential nutrients. If you use it regularly, you will get the amazing results.

Soak 7-8 almonds overnight and then peel them before grinding them into a smooth paste. Add half a cup of yogurt, a teaspoon of turmeric, 4-5 drops of lemon juice, a teaspoon of sandalwood powder and 3-4 saffron strands to the mix and blend it until it’s smooth.

This cream lasts for a week if refrigerated.

…or lotions that prevent overtanning?

However, sometimes skin lightening isn’t good for your skin, and in terms to prevent overtanning pale skin you can use some cosmetics to get tanned smoothly and without red marks (or dark spots on your skin). To get the best results in natural tanning, make sure you have an organic tanning lotion for daily use. Not only it will help you prevent getting marks from the sun, but it will hydrate your skin during hot weather.

Avocado anti-aging cream

Avocado is packed with vitamins A, B, C, E, and K, as well as minerals like magnesium and potassium. Use this cream at night to make your skin supple and soft.

Mash one avocado and make a smooth paste, add 1 egg to a blender and mix it with avocado until it all turns into a smooth paste. Apply this cream twice a week and store it somewhere dry and cold.

What do you think about these recipes? Do you have some more you would like to share? Let us know.

Must Try Essential Oils Recipes For Summer

The use of essential oils and the ways to use it during the summer.

We use our essential oils all summer to keep us balanced and in control of our body, mind, and soul. When summer rolls around, we change the oils to help us through the changing season. This is a magical time. Spring and summer are when a lot of essential oils are made from the fresh plants that are coming in. While the oils work well year-round, there is something about using a summer oil that sparks us to life.

Summer challenges

The summer days are longer, and the warm sun beacons us to the outdoors. As our schedule fills with fun things to do with friends and family, we must address common issues that cause us problems. Here are a few of them:

  • Allergies
  • Change in sleep patterns
  • Insects
  • Sunlight
  • High-energy activities
  • Change in diet

How Do they work?

One of the most common uses for essential oils in the summer is the oils that promote energy. Essential oils are steam-distilled or pressed in the process that extracts the oils from plants. These oils are concentrated and have proven to have amazing benefits medically and even emotionally. These properties date back centuries.

Note: Essential oils are safe but, they are powerful. It is important that you treat them with respect.

When trying a new essential oil, only try one new addition at a time. The reason for this is if you have an allergic reaction to an oil, you will be able to identify it and eliminate it.

It is also important to research the oils you are using and educate yourself in using them properly. You will be able to make recipes that give you energy and help you stay calm. But you may have to adjust the ingredients to ensure you do not use oils that naturally sedate you or help you sleep. This would render your daytime and nighttime oils less effective.

Essential oils for energy

Citrus

Generations of people have used lemon as an energy booster. You can use a mixture of lemon oil and orange oil for an instant boost. Rub a little on your wrists or the bend of your elbow to release the scent throughout the day. If you want to adjust the smell try a few drops of grapefruit in your mix. All of these are great for energy and a clear mind.

Bonus: put lemon oil, olive oil, and orange oil in a spray bottle of water and use it to clean your home. It gives your home a great smell, repels insects, and makes cleaning a breeze.

Herb oils for energy

French or exotic basil oils can be used to stimulate the human adrenal glands. This helps relieve mental tiredness. Add a few drops of rosemary to enhance your focus and concentration levels.

Summer sun

Sun worshippers understand the dangers of the summer sun on our skin, lips, and hair. A sunburn can be anything from a minor issue to a life-threatening problem. It is important that we protect our skin from the sun either with organic sunscreen or not.

Some people make their own sunscreen and natural deodorant with oils and add scents from essential oils for insect protection and a feeling of well-being. You can get a list of SPF protection ratings from some essential oils here.

You will notice that there are natural SPF protections in the oils. However, many people do not feel they get enough sun protection with the oils alone. It is a personal choice. You can buy an over the counter sunscreen and boost its powers by adding these all natural products. You may also combine various oils until you find the mixture that works well for your skin type.

Here are some basic oils that you should consider.

  • Peppermint essential oil – SPF 7
  • Holy basil essential oil – SPF 7
  • Lavender essential oil – SPF 6
  • Sweet orange essential oil – SPF 4
  • Eucalyptus essential oil – SPF 3
  • Tea tree essential oil – SPF 2
  • Rose essential oil – SPF 1

 

Essential oils for sunburn and dry lips

Here is a list of essential oils that work well for dry, burned, and cracked lips. These same oils work to heal skin that has been burned. For the lips, you can simply rub a drop of the oil of your choice directly on the lips. To use it for skin care, you can dilute the oils with water or add them to an aloe vera base (or use the aloe vera alone).

  • Citrus Peel Oil (Orange Peel Oil)
  • Coriander Oil
  • Jasmine Oil
  • Chamomile Oil
  • Lavender Oil
  • Blue Tansy Essential Oils
  • Peppermint Oil
  • Jasmine Oil
  • Aloe Vera Oil
  • Rosehip Seed Oil
  • Coconut Oil
  • Olive Oil
  • Mustard Oil
  • Almond Oil
Coconut essential oil

Finally, it is important that you stay well and healthy during your summer months. Nothing is worse than going on vacation and catching someone’s bug in the plane or car.

The summer months are full of little problems that can ruin your day. Itching bug bites, foot fungus, stings, rashes, eye infection and other annoyances are easily taken care of with your travel kit. Here is a “must have” list. Set up a kit and throw it in your overnight bag, You will be ready for anything that comes your way.

Stress

  • Orange and Lavender
  • Roman Chamomile
  • Frankincense

Stay Awake

  • Peppermint
  • Rosemary

Bug bites, stings, and rashes

  • Lavender
  • Frankincense
  • Tea tree
  • Calendula
  • Roman chamomile

Germ protection

  • Clove
  • Cinnamon
  • Tea tree oil
  • Eucalyptus
  • Lemongrass

You can use these oils by rubbing them on the skin while in the plane or hotel. But, if you keep them in a diffuser in your home, they will help keep you well. Everyone knows it is easier to stay well than to get well.

There is no question that essential oils are your summertime friend. Be cautious when using citrus oils in the sun. Be aware of how long you have used it and how long you are expecting to be in the sun. Common sense goes a long way with any preventative. So grab your oils and hit the beach. Summer is waiting.

Here are some of the best essential oils recipes to try this summer:

1. How to Make Putty – The Best Stress Putty Recipe

2. What are the Best Essential Oils for Bruises?

3. Homemade Lip Balm

4. Green for Beauty – All Natural Cosmetics to Try This Spring

5. DIY Natural Deodorant with Coconut Oil

6. DIY Vegan Lip Gloss Recipe

7. 3 Aloe Vera Cream Home Remedies

8. 6 DIY Essential Oil Beauty Recipes for Glowing Skin

9. DIY After Sun Skin Care Spray for Under$5

 

Do you have anything to add to the list? Do you use essential oils and what for?

I’d love to hear from you so make sure to drop me a line!