Beauty Tip For You

Birthday Gift Ideas for the Woman in Your Life

2007-06-28T01:25:00.000-07:00

Submitted by Leaftech

We men always seem to struggle with several serious problems when it comes to special occasions that involve the women in our lives (whether we’re talking sister, mom, girlfriend, or wife).

The first of these problems is remembering the date. No matter the occasion, a birthday or one of the innumerable special anniversaries we are expected to observe, the odds are pretty good that it will slip your mind until the last second. When you do remember (and hopefully it is in the nick of time) the second dilemma presents itself: what on earth should you get her? The final problem comes when you decide on a gift that is both meaningful and useful, but realize that due to the nature of dilemma number one (remember when you forgot her birthday, leaving the gift decision to the last second?) you’re out of time. Or are you?

Fortunately for us, the Internet offers innumerable opportunities to address these problems, even if you tend to be one of the very last minute types. The online presence of health spas just might help save you in an emergency.

To start with, the spa “experience” is the perfect gift for any woman, on any occasion. Just like guys, women lead busy lives, full of appointments, demands and other stresses. While men usually prefer to work out the stress through some kind of active pursuit, women tend to lean towards letting it all go through relaxing; being pampered in particular is very appealing.

A spa offers a great opportunity for the woman in your life to receive special treatment from the hands of a professional, using the very latest in cutting edge relaxation and health techniques. Massages of all types, beauty treatments, steam treatments, and meals are all a part of the modern spa package. In addition, a trip to the spa gives a busy woman the chance to get away from it all and a chance to relax in the presence of similarly minded ladies.

The presence of various spas online means that you also get to take care of that nagging final problem; getting the gift to her in time for that birthday. All you have to do is find a spa that offers the purchase of a gift certificate online, and this special present could be in the inbox of the woman in your life before she even suspects you almost forgot what an important day it is.

So rejoice, guys, because the information age brings a whole bunch of solutions to several age old problems in male/female relationships. No matter how forgetful or last minute you are, you’ll never have to worry about missing those special gift occasions again. Just buy a spa gift certificate online and surprise her with a special email.

About the Author
For more information on this article or a on line gift certificate, visit PremierSpaCollection.com.

Create a Spa Retreat at Home!

2007-06-18T03:03:00.000-07:00

In today's high-stress world, a visit to a spa can provide a much needed renewal for your mind, body and soul. If you don't have the time and/or money to head to the nearest spa or resort, consider creating your own. Experience the benefits of a day at the spa by creating a near-professional spa in your own home. Here are some ideas for transforming you bathroom into a relaxing spa retreat.

SPA TREATMENTS

Widely used in spas, bath salts or salt scrubs made with sea salts are wonderful for their detoxifying properties. The Romans, Greeks and other European cultures have long believed in the benefits of healing through bathing in hotsprings.

SPA TOOLS

If you're giving yourself a body treatment, have a body brush, loofah or sponge within easy reach. One of the best ways to revive skin is to exfoliate before you get in the shower. The ancient spas of Japan were known for their dry brushing techniques. Gently brush your body using circular motions with a soft body brush, starting at the feet and working your way up. This light brushing technique removes dead skin cells while stimulating circulation.

DRY OFF

Pamper yourself with classic and elegant spa garb ? a luxuriously thick white terrycloth robe. If you don't have a robe handy, find your fluffiest, softest towel. For an unmatched toasty treat, heat your robe or towel in the dryer before using.

MOISTURIZE

Water from the bath has a drying effect on the skin. To make the most of your skin replenishment, keep a special body lotion for spa days ? one with an aroma that you enjoy.

Beauty Tip: Foundation Secrets For A Flawless Complexion

2007-06-18T02:03:00.000-07:00

1. For a natural look your foundation must match your skin tone. Test foundations along your jawline. You will know the best color because it will disappear into your skin.

2. Spread foundation on your hands and pat it on your face, then smooth out with a sponge making sure not to pull or stretch the skin. Be extra careful in the area around your eyes where the skin is super thin. Don't forget to apply foundation on your eyelids and lips.

3. To make foundation last apply moisturizer first giving the foundation a base. Dry skin will soak up the foundation if not given that base. For oily skin use an oil-free moisturizer and powder foundation

4. On hot days foundation can be difficult to keep looking fresh. Set your foundation in the morning using a loose powder and puff, then do regular touch ups throughout the day.

5. To cover imperfections apply foundation first and then go back and dot on a concealer that neutralizes red. For noticeable imperfections like very dark circles and birthmarks use a yellow concealer (available from Mary Kay). Don't use too much powder in problem areas because it will draw attention to it.

6. To avoid a foundation line around the jaw apply foundation as usual then use a little moisturizer in your hand and blend it down your neck.

7. For evening mix some shimmer powder with your powder and put it where you want to attract light such as the bridge of the nose, underneath the brow bone, the temples, cheekbone, chin and shoulders.

8. Always use a foundation with a sunscreen of at least 15 to prevent future sun damage.

9. Change your foundation shade if the color of your skin changes.

10. After you apply foundation go near a window to make sure it looks natural. Natural light is the ultimate test.

Copyright 2004 Sheila Dicks

Hot Colors for Cooler Days

2007-06-18T01:55:00.000-07:00

Labor Day not only marks the end of the summer season, but also summer fashion as well. I'm sure you've heard the old fashion adage, "don't wear white shoes after Labor Day!". Does this same restriction apply to pink lip-gloss? What about lime green eye shadow? Always wanting to be cosmetic-ly correct, I enlisted the help of hair stylist & make up artist extraordinaire Shea-Shea Johnson co-owner of Thaanx 2 U Hair Salon. Shea-Shea's impressive celeb list of clients include Alicia Keys, A.J Johnson, Gary Dourdan, Kellita Smith, Kerry Washington, Spike Lee & Tisha Campbell. Anyone talented enough to powder fine @(#* Gary Dourdan's nose is definitely qualified to share beauty secrets with a wanna be like me. Read on as Shea-Shea offers us some "MAC-nificent suggestions to transition beautifully into Fall.

Changing Faces

Q. With cooler days ahead, I asked Shea-Shea if wearing hot, bright colors on our eyes and lips is breaking "the rules"?

A. "Simplicity is key. I don't follow "the rules" but I do believe in keeping it simple. If you want to wear a bright eye shadow it's important to apply it in moderation, and make sure it is blended well. The object is to not let the eye shadow over power your face.

Fall into Beauty

Q. Can you recommend any essentials as we transition into Fall?

A. "Hydrating the skin is essential! Drinking water is the first step to having healthy, dewy skin. Also, it is important to continue to use a moisturizer that contains sunscreen. Sunscreen not only protects our faces from sun damage but also acts as a barrier against cold winter weather. So skincare first, then makeup. For fall I prefer natural, earth tones like Samoa Silk eye shadow. Tan-Ray eye paint, Peaches blush, & Oh Baby lip glass, all by MAC Cosmetics.

Beauty Express

Q. With the end of summer also comes the beginning of school. For many moms with school age children, that can also mean less time in the bathroom. Any advice for looking polished in say 10 minutes?

A. Definitely. Starting with a clean face and groomed eyebrows.

1. Lightly dust face with a MAC SPF 15 Foundation. (Remember the key is moderation. You don't want to over powder)

2. Apply 2 coats of mascara.

3. Apply blush or bronzer. (Peaches by MAC works on just about every skintype)4. Apply lipgloss. (Oh Baby by MAC works on just about every skintype)

What's in Your Makeup Bag?

Q. Your going to be stranded on a desert island. What do you definitely pack into your makeup bag?

A. Definicils Mascara by Lancome, Pink Freeze eyeshadow by MAC, C-Thru Lip Glass by MAC, MAC shadow brushes #'s 224, 252 & 266 and Fashion Fair Skin Treatment Program (Cleanse, Rinse, Moisturize) because it is so important to wash off your make up before bed!

Face Painting

Q. Thank you Shea-Shea. I've enjoyed talking "shop" with you and I've definitely added a few items to my beauty-shopping list. But I also need help with makeup application. Do you teach makeup application?

A. I do. I give makeup consultation as well as workshops on makeup application. I also do makeovers from head to toe, and I do make up for bridal partys, special events, etc. I can be reached at (510) 262-9220 or (510) 812-8602 for an appointment.

There you have it ladies?pro tips on Fall Beauty. Of course, inner beauty is the best beauty because it doesn't wash off! But if you need a little help painting your face don't hesitate to give my girl a call?who knows you just might see Gary!

Cathy Gatson is a freelance writer and owner/operator of a hair and body salon in Northern California.

Perfect Lips

2007-06-18T01:36:00.001-07:00

Nothing impresses your friends more than a perfect lip line, because it is the hardest makeup application to do.To get it, avoid applying the lip pencil too heavily, which will be difficult to blend and soften into the lipstick. Keeping your mouth closed lightly trace the lip line with the lip pencil so it can barely be seen, but can be used as a guide line.

Hold the brush horizontally to trace along the lip line, and do a little bit at a time, backing up and going over it again. Don't try to get the whole line in one stroke. The best lip brush is a sable with a slightly tapered edge, not straight one.

This provides more control and a cleaner line.If you are really pressed for time, apply lipstick only on the bottom lip and press your lips together. Then, blend out to the lip line with the edge of a lip brush, not the tip, for a precise line, or use a dampened cotton swab for a soft, natural lip line.

When finished, instead of blotting the lips by biting a tissue, lay the tissue across both lips while your mouth is closed. This will imprint your lips, including the edges of the mouth where lipstick usually bleeds. Perfect!

Mina Dimakis-Lev

How To Apply Your Makeup

2007-06-18T01:25:00.000-07:00

How To Apply Your Makeup

STEP 1:

FOUNDATION:

After Cleansing, Toning and Moisturizing your face apply a small amount of foundation to the tip of your index finger, dot on forehead, nose, cheeks and chin then blend in an upward and outward motion without leaving a line. Be sure to apply foundation over your eyelids and blend without leaving a line. Glance in the mirror to ensure there's no line. You can use a concealer to cover imperfections such as blemishes and dark spots. You can use our NATU-CLEAR to remove dark spots, even skin tone and skin discoloration.

STEP 2:

TRANSLUCENT POWDER:

Using a Powder Brush apply Translucent Powder in a downward motion for a smooth finish. Translucent Powder helps eye makeup and blush to go on smoother and blend better. It also keeps your face looking fresh and your Makeup will last longer.

STEP 3

EYE MAKEUP:

Starting at your lash line, apply your Base Color first, then apply your crease color in the crease area. Apply your Highlight Color in the highlight color area, below the brow bone. Finally, blend the colors with a cotton ball or your fingertip to remove any obvious line. If the colors are too bright tone them down with a little Translucent Powder then apply your Mascara, and dust your entire face downward with Translucent Powder.

STEP 4

BLUSH:

Your Blush should go on the apples of your cheeks to radiate when you smile. It should go no closer to your nose, but directly beneath the iris of your eye; below nostril-level and into your temple hairline. A good Blush Brush that's tapered for precise placement, is a must.

STEP 5

LIPSTICKS:

Define the outline of your lips with a professional lip brush or lip liner pencil that closely matches the color of your lipstick. Then apply your lipstick and blend the liner with a lip brush. Start from the center working outwards.

7 Steps to Great Makeup

2007-06-18T01:17:00.000-07:00

1. Avoid wearing too much

Makeup is meant to enhance features not bring negative attention to you. That's what wearing too much makeup will do; it will bring you unwanted attention. Don't wear too much of anything such as:

1. Eyeliner: dark, thick eyeliner will make you look overdone and will ruin the rest of your makeup.

2. Mascara: too much mascara looks fake and will flake. It looks especially bad if worn with thick eyeliner or dark blue eye eye shadow.

3. Foundation: Make sure your foundation is the same color as your skin. Foundation is meant to protect and give the face a smooth look. The magic word is blend.

4. Powder: The same holds true for powder - not too much. Also, be sure to blend your makeup so there are no obvious lines.

2. Lips

Apply lip liner to completely cover the lips, add color and your lipstick will stay on much longer. Make sure your lip liner doesn't show. Also, your lip color should match your skin tone; wear cool colors if you have cool coloring and warm colors if you have warm coloring. If you want to make your lips look smaller, keep your liner on the inside of your lips. However, if you decide to make your lips look larger, going outside the natural outline of you lips is a mistake. This can look quite messy and unnatural.

3. Appropriate makeup

Wear makeup that is appropriate for the occasion. If you are going to the beach you shouldn't wear the same or as much makeup as you would if you were going dancing. Also, when you are in daylight your makeup should be a lighter than when you are out for the evening.

4. Too little or no makeup

Some women don't wear makeup because they are not sure how to use it and are afraid of being overdone. If you are unsure, start will light colours in your shade. Start slowly and add one product at a time. Maybe start with foundation, add mascara, blush or lipstick. If you are not used to wearing makeup, using a lot a first may be a little too much for you, so start slowly. The bottom line is a little is better than none. If you are still unsure seek professional advice.

5. Overall look

When your makeup is completed it should look natural. That means avoiding colours that clash. If you have dark skin and hair you will look better in darker shades; light colours will make you look washed out. If your hair and skin tone are light, light colours will look better on you. Dark makeup will make you look older and harsh. If you have oily skin, first use oil control moisturizer and foundation. Then be sure to wear loose powder, keeping pressed powder with you for touch ups.

6. Hair color

Your hair color should also be in harmony with your skin. If you have dark hair and you want to add color, keep it close to the same shade. If you have light hair, use light colors. As you age your skin will lighten, so should your hair color. One last thing about hair color - if you do color you hair be sure you keep it up, don't let your roots show.

7. One last thing

Keep makeup looking fresh all day by doing regular touch ups. Don't let your makeup fade or crease. Smile!!!

Handmade Soap Facts

2007-06-18T01:06:00.000-07:00

How many people know what soap really is?

Several of the cleansing bars that you buy at the store, for example, are detergents-and not soaps at all. They are called syndet bars, or synthetic detergent bars. They are made from synthesized chemicals and are usually much harsher than soap. Detergents contain petroleum distillates rather than oil. On the other hand, true soap is made from natural oils (such as olive, coconut and palm) and is a gentle cleansing product more appropriate for use on skin than is detergent.

Soaps, unlike detergents, are made by combining sodium hydroxide or lye, oils and water in a process known as "Saponification". Some people may question the use of lye in handcrafted soap. The fact is that all soap is made with lye. What needs to be made clear is that once the process of saponification is complete, the lye and oil molecules have combined and chemically changed into soap and glycerin. There is no lye present in the finished bars of soap.

The oils in our soaps are put there for a specific purpose. The coconut oil creates a wonderful lather. The olive oil is used for a high quality, long lasting bar. Canola and Palm oil carry nutrients to the skin, and the safflower oil make a creamy bar.

Glycerin is a skin soothing emollient that adds to the goodness of handmade soap. In commercial soaps the glycerin is removed for sale to the cosmetic industry to sell separately, sometimes at a higher price than the soap itself! Glycerin is important to skin care because it is a humectant. Humectants draw moisture from the air, which in turn moisturize your skin. A whole 1/5 of a bar of our soap is glycerin.

Most soaps have artificial ingredients to scent or color. Some handcrafted soap is scented with fragrance oils. These are synthetic chemicals that are mixed together to imitate a particular scent. They have contributed in many cases to chemical sensitivity in some people. They also have no aromatherapy benefits. The scents in our soaps should come only from essential oils, which are steamed or pressed from plants. Essential oils are the fragrance emitting components of plants and are at the heart of aromatherapy. Not only do they smell good; they have many beneficial effects on the body, mind and spirit.

The coloring in our soap should come from nature as well. The petals of Lavender and Rose can be used. Earth Pigments can also be used, which are simply finely ground rocks. This makes the colors rich and earthy, rather than artificial looking.

The Eyes Have It

2007-06-18T01:02:00.000-07:00

Did you know Leonardo da Vinci sketched and described several forms of contact lenses in 1508, and in 1632 Rene Descartes suggested the possibility of a corneal contact lens? Civilization has come a long way from these early ideas to the high-tech advancements we have to care for our eyes today. We even have choices for improved vision other than through a contact lens or eyeglasses. LASIK surgical procedures are done on the eye and intended to reduce dependency on eyeglasses. It doesn't promise perfect vision, but it offers convenient benefits to people that don't want to put on glasses.

Millions of people are using gas permeable rigid contact lenses, extended wear, soft-lens, bifocal vision, a whole rainbow of color contacts, no-fuss disposables, and lenses that protect from UV rays. If eyeglasses are more your style, you have never had a bigger selection than what is on the market today. Make a bold statement with colors of eyeglass frames or let the frames blend into your face. I have four different colors of eyeglasses and I plan on buying more. If all of these options become tiresome, you might choose the LASIK surgery where your eye should become less dependent on glasses and you will have the convenience of not wearing anything on your face unless you want to. Wouldn't it be nice to wake up in the morning and be able to see everything clearly without putting on glasses?

Color cares for the eyes

Color contacts are fun and you can present a different personality to the world. Did you always want to be a blond with blue eyes - how about a red head with green eyes? Now you can because of the many choices available. Designer eyeglasses are in vogue so why not buy different eyeglass frames and treat them as jewelry, watches or other accessories that match your clothing? You might be looking for a fabulous pair of reading glasses to bring out in a restaurant. There are even styles of lorgnettes that you can stylishly wear around you neck, and use them as a magnifying glass when the need arose. If you have woodworking or remodeling projects to do at home, don't forget about safety glasses. They are also more fashionable, comfortable and functional than ever before. It doesn't matter if it is for fashion, fun or function; take the time to properly care for your eyes.

Living Water

2007-06-18T00:57:00.000-07:00

A wellness of beauty for mind,

body & spirit

by Cathy Gatson

"When the well is dry, then we know the worth of water", unfortunately manyof us take it for granted. The significance of water is so much deeper than drinking 8 to 10 glasses perday. Although vitally important; water quenches more than just our physical thirst?

Mind/Spirit

Wade in the water?. Just as water is significant in baptism because it symbolizes the cleansing away of our sins and the renewing of our spirit, biblically water is a reminder that when our spirit is dehydrated we can go to God's well and refill our cup over and over again. (John 4:7-14& 7:38). Water represents the tranquility and serenity that is necessary to reflect, renew and seek peace of mind.

Body

Inner - Water is necessary for nutrient and oxygen transport and for absorption and utilization of vitamins and minerals. Our bodies are made up of over 80% water. We lose up to 2 -3 quarts of water per day, more if you exercise. That water loss needs to be replaced. Without enough water, constipation, dehydration and a weakened immune system can occur. 8 - 10 glasses of water per day is the popular belief but did you know for every caffeine beverage you drink like coffee, tea or soda, you must drink anadditional 8 ounces of water. You can determine how much water you need per day by dividing your weight by 2?the result is approximately the amount of water you should drink in ounces. Drinking the daily-recommended amounts of water will result in a healthier, stronger body as well as reduce your risks of bladder infections, increase metabolism, keep healthy bowels and reduces halitosis.

Outer - Water improves elasticity in your skin leaving it more supple. Water also helps the body rid itself of toxins, which results in a more radiant complexion and adds a healthy glow to skin. Keeping your body hydrated not only keeps your skin radiant but it reduces acne flair ups and chapped lips.

There's nothing like a nice warm bath to renew your mind and cleanse your body. Add these goodies to your bath for a more enjoyable experience. Origin's "Peace of Mind"Tension-releasing vapor bath is very soothing if you like the smell of peppermint and eucalyptus. Or Bath&Body Works' Aromatherapy Sleep Foam Bath is a soothing blend of Lavendar & Vanilla that will leave you on cloud 9.

Exercise - Swimming provides a great workout to your entire body. It's toning from head to toe, while providing an excellent cardiovascular workout. It also strengthens your heart muscles and improves circulation. According to the American Heart Association, just 30-60 minutes of physical activity 3-4 days per week can help reduce your risk for heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. As a regular physical activity, swimming can also help lower your blood pressure and cholesterol. Swimming is a relatively in expensive sport to begin, since you don't need much equipment. For most of us, a good swim cap is all the biggest challenge. For more information on pools in your area, contact your local YMCA, 24 Hour Fitness or gym nearest you. Swiminfo.com gives advice for swimming workouts.

Beauty really does start from within. So if you want to raise your beauty factor from theinside out, just add water.

Cathy Gatson is a freelance writer and owner/operator of Yada Beauty Lounge, a hair and body salon in Northern California.

Beauty Sleep - Is It A Dream?

2007-06-18T00:50:00.000-07:00

As women we know that a lack of sleep leaves us irritable; however most of us are unaware of the damage it may be doing to our skin? Besides being an essential component of a healthy lifestyle, getting 8 hours of sleep per night helps improve the texture and the luminosity of our skin. During the night the skin is restored from the harmful effects of daily stress. When we do not get the required sleep our skin suffers. This is especially noticeable in the fragile skin under the eyes. The under eye area is almost fifty percent thinner than the skin on the face. Sleepless nights leaves behind fine lines, dark circles or puffy bags. Cosmetic treatments can soften the effects of sleep deprivation but preventive medicine is the best cure. Eye treatments are limited in their ability and cannot reverse the stress that a lack of sleep will do to the skin.

Sleep experts say that we need 8 hours of sleep per night. However, the latest research shows that women average 6 hours and forty minutes of sleep during the week and 7 hours on the weekend. Besides the extra work that women have to contend with (helping with homework, laundry, cooking, etc.) and the many concerns that keep them from sleep, women are also be kept awake by - small children who wake during the night, teenagers coming home late, aging parents who get up during the night.

What can we do to sleep more peacefully and longer?
Here are some hints:

1. Eliminate noise from your bedroom. Bedroom sounds should be low and consistent. Try earplugs.

2. Keep your room dark by using dark fabric on your windows. If that is not possible, try eyeshades.

3. The temperature of the room should be cool.

4. A relaxing bath before you go to bed will induce sleep.

5. Set a schedule to arise, no matter what time you went to bed the night before.

6. Turn your clock so you can't see the time if you wake up in the middle of the night.

7. Keep TV's and computers out of the bedroom, make it a place just for sleep and sex.

8. Get a queen-size mattress if you don't sleep alone. We need room to move.

9. Avoid alcohol before sleeping. While alcohol may help us fall asleep, it will also wake us in the middle of the night.

10. Avoid nicotine before going to bed because it is a stimulant.

11. Don' go to bed hungry or overly full. Have a snack early in the night.

12. Watch your coffee intake. Caffeine from coffee, tea, cola and chocolate can affect you for up to twelve hours.

13. If you fret during the night or if you think of something that you must do the next day, write it down so you can deal with it in the morning.

14. Try natural-fill pillows such as down or feather because they have the most adjustability. If you suffer from back pain put a pillow between your knees for a more comfortable sleep.

Happy Sleeping!!!!!