Skin care Tip

If you're drinking alcohol, be prepared for some ‪#‎swelling‬, ‪#‎redness‬ or flare ups with your skin. To combat that make sure you're drinking plenty of water, and using a ‪#‎calmingmoisturizer‬with ingredients like cucumber, caffeine, green tea extract, photo corrective, or chamomile.

Recipe to look 10 years younger

We will give you a recipe of a rice based mask that softens wrinkles and makes your skin glow.

To prepare the mask, you will need:

– 3 tablespoons rice
– 1 tablespoon milk
– 1 tablespoon of honey

After you boil the rice, strain it and put aside the water in which the rice boiled. Add a spoon of heated milk in the rice and mix them. After you stir the mixture well, add honey to it.

Apply the mask on clean, dry skin and let it dry. Afterwards, take off the mask and wash your face with water in which the rice boiled.

Rice water has antioxidant and healing properties that moisturize the skin and improve circulation, avoid age related spots and ease inflammation. Rice water will give you healthy, clear and more moisturized skin. Also, it offers you a mild sun protection.

Do this procedure once a week at least, if you want to feel the benefits and look ten years younger.

Rice is a rich source of linoleic acids and squalene, a powerful antioxidant that promotes the collagen production in the skin. It is a substance that keeps skin from wrinkling. In addition, squalene protects the skin from sun damage. Large amount of vitamin E and gamma oryznol are present in rice as well, which protects heart health and lowers cholesterol.

Source : http://myilfestyle.com/

Reduce your Sun Spots Naturally!

I am a child of the sun.

I spent the majority of my childhood playing outdoors under the warm California sun. Whether we were at tennis practice, hiking Jack London State Park, jumping waves in Bodega Bay, or simply playing in the field (country living, right?), the sun’s rays were a constant comrade. Back then, the sun would leave tiny freckles across the bridge of my nose and lightly dust my cheeks — sun kisses or sun freckles we called them. Now, many years later, I am still drawn to the sun as ever. Any free moment I have is spent outside hiking, swimming, or kicking back in the patio with a book and cold drink. The only thing that has changed is the trace that the sun leaves on my skin. Sweet sun freckles have been replaced with dark sun spots.

Though I wear sunscreen everyday, I am prone to hyperpigmentation, a common skin condition that occurs as a result of excess melanin production in the body and can cause uneven skin color and dark patches. Prolonged sun exposure, inflammation, acne, or hormonal imbalance can trigger excess melanin. Though my sun spots are mostly on my face, hyperpigmentation can also occur anywhere else on the body. For several years, I have tried expensive creams and fancy oils to reduce the look of dark spots but nothing has worked — anyone who also has dark spots knows how frustrating this can be.

I recently came across an article about the benefits of turmeric, a spice that is native to Southern Asia from the ginger family of plants. The stems — or rhizomes — of the plant are harvested, dried, and usually pounded to create a fine, yellow-gold powder. It is commonly used in cooking but has also been used to treat inflammation, skin wounds, and even liver disorder in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine. It also has a wide variety of beauty benefits, including reducing the appearance of dark sun spots.

Turmeric:

Acts as an antioxidant. Circumin, the yellow pigment and active ingredient in turmeric, is a powerful antioxidant that combats premature aging. An antioxidant protects cells from free radicals and environmental toxins that can damage cells over time, resulting in aging.

Reduces inflammation. Turmeric has potent anti-inflammatory properties. Some people add a pinch of turmeric to their daily regimen to help reduce inflammation.

Has antibacterial properties. Not only can you combat colds and sore throats with turmeric, the spice can be applied to cuts and wounds to prevent infection.

Some people believe that turmeric is an effective ingredient in treating acne and sun spots due to its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antioxidant properties. I wanted to put it to the test so I researched different ways to safely apply it to my skin in the form of a mask:

Turmeric Face Mask

Ingredients:

Pinch of turmeric. I recommend starting with a small pinch and gradually adding more as you see fit. The turmeric will make your mask a yellow-to-orange color. Personally I use a small portion of turmeric so my mask is a lighter yellow.

2 Tbsp organic plain yogurt. Yogurt is a gentle ingredient that evens out skin complexion and brightens skin due to the lactic acid.

Juice from half of a lemon. Lemons contain citric acid which helps to lighten dark spots. They also act as a natural exfoliator. If you have sensitive skin, I recommend using much less lemon or skip the lemon altogether.

2 Tbsp cucumber juice. Cucumbers bind collagen and help firm skin. Cucumbers also have an incredible cooling effect.

1 Tbsp aloe vera gel. Aloe vera works on hyper-pigmented skin due to the mucilaginous polysaccharides in the gel. It removes dead skin cells and promotes regeneration of new skin cells. Aloe vera also has natural salicylic acid that keeps skin clear.

Add all ingredients to a bowl and mix well. Once it is mixed, it should be a little runny. You can either apply to the affected area or to your entire face. Because turmeric stains, and might leave your fingertips a shade of yellow, I recommend using the back of a spoon or a brush to apply. I also recommend wearing a shirt you wouldn’t mind staining if the mask accidentally drips onto it.

Keep the mask on for 15-20 minutes. If it dries and feels tight, try adding more yogurt next time.

Rinse with warm water. And don’t forget to apply sunscreen after!

After the mask, my face feels soft and has a much brighter glow. I am anxious to see how my sun spots reduce in a few weeks!

There are many different turmeric face masks out there so I suggest researching a few to find one that is best suited for your specific skin type.


Source: blog.freepeople.com

Best skin care tip for Summer 

Ever feel your skin after a day in the sun? Even after slathering on sunscreen repeatedly, mine still feels hot hours later. Scientists at Yale University have shed light on this mystery in a recent study showing that “UV light can continue to harm the skin and inflict cancer-causing damage hours after exposure and even in the dark.” Fortunately, thanks to this study, we now know that there’s something you can do about it. The key is to apply free radical fighting antioxidants — before, during and after sun exposure. Yes, after!

Although the skin possesses an elaborate antioxidant defense system designed to help it cope with sun-induced oxidative stress, ongoing exposure to UV light can still tax our skin’s ability to fight off premature skin aging and skin cancer. Studies support the application of antioxidants to help fortify the skin’s natural defenses and prevent free radical damage caused by the sun. [1,2,3] Which is why every medical and skincare expert recommends a skincare routine packed with antioxidants.

Now, it seems that this same wisdom applies even after the sun sets. After a day in the sun (wearing sunscreen, of course), you should continue to protect your skin with natural antioxidants like green tea, astaxanthin, and red raspberry seed oil that provide an extra boost of free radical fighting power.

Knowing that UV exposure accounts for approximately 80 percent of skin aging, I’m going to be extra vigilant about supporting my skin with topical anti-oxidants this summer... even when it gets dark!

Source : http://www.huffingtonpost.com/hillary-peterson/hot-tip-for-summer-skinca_b_7546036.html

The Most Versatile Herb – Henna! (#3 Most Useful)

Did you know it is documented that Cleopatra herself used Henna for decorative purpose??

It’s time to know about this versatile herb!

Henna is a flowering plant that grows to a medium height from a species called the Lawsonia genus. It is also called hina, Eqgyptian privet, and mignonette. The word henna comes from the Arabic (hinna). The word henna also refers to dye prepared from the henna plant and the art of temperory tattooing based on these dyes. For many centuries this is used to dye skin, hair, fingernails as well as few fabrics.

The art of henna is called Mehndi which is being practiced over many centuries in India, Pakistan and Middle East. Research did have some documentation that it is over 9000yrs. Have you wondered WHY? Well, because henna has natural cooling properties, people of the dessert, for centuries, have been using henna to cool down their bodies. Best of all is It’s Easy!!! Yes, all they need to do is to make a paste of the leaves and soak your palms and soles of the feet to get that air conditioning affect. They feel its cooling sensation throughout the body as long as the stain remains on their skin. When fading started, it left patterns on the skin surface and that lead to “Henna Designs”.

Here are some the uses of Henna:

1. Headaches: The flowers of henna can be used to cure headaches which are due to excessive exposure to hot sun. All you need to do is chop some flowers and make a paste of them using little vinegar and apply that on your forehead. Good Bye to Headache!

2. Cooling Agent: Henna as the history says is a great cooling agent. Try on the henna paste on your hair and tell me if it hasn’t cooled your burning scalp ;)

3. For Hair: One key benefit you wouldn’t want to miss out is the wellness henna gets to your hair. It is a natural remedy for hair loss and is also excellent for maintaining overall hair quality. Have you ever wondered why the Indians and Mid-Eastern people is adorable? Think now. The regular use of henna will help to seal and repair the cuticle which in turn prevents breakages. One of the main benefits of henna for hair is that it prevents dandruff, hair fall and premature graying of hair. There are many different ways how to you mix and apply this paste on your head. (Shoot me an email to know more on this @westcoastskincare@gmail.com)

4. Henna for Nails: Henna is also known to prevent breaking of nails. Now you know why those little cups of henna stain at the tip of fingers in the olden paints. One can also soak henna leaves in water and drink it the next day which has many medical benefits.

Yes, henna also used to treat sleeplessness, skin infections, burns, liver disorders, fever reduction and lot more. Apart from all these henna on skin can be turned into a beautiful art that you cant take your eyes off.

The traditional Side of Henna:

Henna is used traditionally for a lot of occasions like birthdays, festivals and weddings in many parts of the world. The most popular tradition in that a Mehndi (henna) night where the bride, her family, her relatives and friends gather and celebrate the upcoming wedding. The bride gets her extensive patterns of henna done along with other guests and family.

It is said that as long as the henna stain appears on the bride, she doesn’t have to do any household work. Also, the darker the stain the better the marriage, and the better the mother-in-law will be. Some believe that women with stained hands are often blessed by the goddess. Did you know each pattern of henna has different meanings to it too???

Final Words to Remember

"There is Nothing called Black Henna"

Happy Hennaing J

Ash

Do's N Don'ts for Soft N Silky Skin

Dry and flaky skin is most common problem in winter time for any skin types. Cold air does more damage than we think, it literally sucks the life out of silky and hydrated skin. Few other factors like food habits, smoking and alcohol contribute for skin damage.

We do know stores out there are filled with many lotions and moisturizers to combat this dry skin. Most of them may not suit you best or they have a price tag that you want to re-think on. Hence, natural remedies, these are not only affordable, but also more efficient than any chemical based products out in the market.

Let’s see what are some of the rules to maintain silky and smooth skin?

Don’ts

•  I understand you loving your hot showers for longer time during winters, but did you know that these hot showers are a big No No for skin? They wipe away protective oils from your skin leaving you dead and dry skinned person. 

• Never scratch your skin with your long and beautiful nails. It does longer term damage to your skin than you expect.

• Give yourself a holiday from smoking, sun tanning and sun bathing for a while.

• Have your hands off your face! Your hands touch a lot of surfaces which are a magnet of dirt and germs. Do you want them on your skin?

• Never rub your eyes, apply compresses instead. The skin on your face is extremely delicate, especially under your eyes. So use very light touch on your face every time.

·           

Do’s

•  Always treat you neck and chest as a part of your face. Your upper chest and neck area are covered by very sensitive skin just like your face. Hence, they tend to be one of the primer spot for spots and sun burns and sings of aging such as dryness and wrinkles start to appear soon in these areas.

• Aloe vera gel is the best cure for extra dry spots on your skin. The acids present in aloe vera eat away the dead cells and speed up the healing process.

• Use a loofah daily to keep a check to ingrown and dead cells on your skin.

• Always keep checking the dryness of your skin by scratching a small line on your leg. If it leaves a white mark then your skin is extremely dry and you need a moisturizer as well as exfoliation

• Nourish your body always. Keep your body hydrated from inside by drinking lots of fluids. Avoid salty snacks during your place, instead opt for some fresh fruit.

Freedom from Acne - Clear Skin from your pantry & Refrigerator!

Acne is a common skin problem that affects all ages. This is more often seen in teenagers due to their increased hormone levels in their body. Apart from hormonal changes, sleep deprivation, wrong usage of products, unhealthy eating habits, hectic lifestyles also cause breakouts on your skin.

Remember there no definitive cure for this for all skin types. However, home remedies, botanical and organic products are always best to try. We never know which one suits best and when it comes to skin be sure you try out the right ones that have zero reactions. 

Let me tell you some proven home remedies that can help you prevent or reduce the problem, which are definitely available in your pantry or your refrigerator.

1. Toothpaste 

This is one of the easiest home remedy for acne. The regular toothpaste that we use to clean our teeth can be used to reduce acne.

Directions: Apply a small amount of white tooth paste (Note: I am talking about white ones, not the gel toothpastes) on the affected area and leave it over night. This will help reduce the swelling and gets the acne dried. You should see the difference in a day or two.

2. Lemons

This is well known fact that Lemons are high in acidic property and hence these are very useful to treat acne. Lemon juice will help clean out the dirt from the pores and will harden the sebum.

Directions: Rub a slice of lemon on the affected area and leave it for sometime. You can also try mixing lemon juice with rose water and applying on the affected area. (Note: If you feel it is over drying your skin, use it 2-3 times a week instead of daily)

3. Honey & Cinnamon

Yes, you read it right. We do wonder sticky and spicy cinnamon on face? True, they make a killer combo when it comes to acne reduction. Cinnamon has antimicrobial properties that will help those acne bacteria out.

Directions: Mix two tbsp of honey and one tbsp of cinnamon until they blend and form a thick paste. Apply this mask on your face or just on the spots and leave it for 10-15 minutes. Rinse off completely and pat dry. (Note: This is a sticky mixture so make sure you have enough paper towels handy)

4. Tea Tree Oil

This is yet another popular remedy for acne treatment. This acts as an antiseptic and disinfects the pores. It also kills the bacteria that caused the acne at first place.

Directions: Just apply a drop of Tea Tree Oil on the affected area three times a day. (Note: highly concentrated ones may cause irritation to few skin types, if so, take 5% concentrated one and repeat the process)

5. Orange peel paste

Thanks to vitamin C, astringent properties and citric acid present in oranges. Vitamin C promotes the growth of new healthy cells keeping the skin in better condition

Directions: Grind two orange peels and make a paste by adding little water to it. Apply this on face or just on the spots and leave it for 20 minutes. Ideally it should become dry and then wash your face with water, pat it dry.

6. Oatmeal

This is very beneficial to skin because it cleanses your skin and also absorbs excess oil present on the face. Hence this best suits for oily skins. 

Directions: Mix 1tbsp of honey, lemon juice from half sliced lemon and a cup of cooked oatmeal. Rub this mixture on your face and leave it for 30minutes. Wash it with lukewarm water and pat dry. Do this twice a week for best results.