Power tools make home improvement projects easier, but can the same be said of your skin care routine? In recent years several motorized cleansing brushes have appeared on the market with promises of a deeper cleaning and more radiant skin.
"For many of my patients, the cleansing brushes are great," says Papri Sarkar, MD, a dermatologist in Brookline, MA. "Cleansing is one of the most crucial steps in a skin care regimen," she says, so a device that can make cleansing more effective can be a powerful tool for healthy skin.
The brushes typically use a battery-operated motor that moves the brush head in a repetitive motion. "Some use circular motion and others move back and forth, but it’s the repetitive motion of the bristles combined with cleanser that makes them work," says dermatologist Neal B. Schultz, MD, founder of DermTV.com.
The motor and bristles enable these tools to clean dirt and makeup from skin and exfoliate more effectively than washing by hand, but Sarkar says the tools have more compelling benefits.
"Since they deliver constant pressure and many have timers, these brushes are a more standardized way to clean than just using your hands," she says. Another perk: The brushes exfoliate so well that any skin care products you apply after washing are absorbed more easily.
The amped-up cleansing is especially effective for those with acne, Sarkar says. But sensitive or aging skin may need a more gentle approach: "If your skin is red or irritated, a brush may not work for you."
Schultz warns that overuse is a common problem. "It’s even possible to have first-degree burns from too-aggressive cleansing," he says.
The brushes range in price from about $20 to $200, so what’s the difference? They may use different bristles or have a more powerful motor, but the $200 brushes are not necessarily 10 times as effective as the $20 options, Schultz says.
Look for a cleansing brush with bristles rather than an oscillating head, Sarkar says, because the brushes tend to be less abrasive than those models with flat pads. "I like the Clarisonic," she says. "The sonic technology is great for cleansing, and the brush is the most effective and gentle I’ve tried so far."
Brush Hour
Sarkar shares her tips for using a cleansing brush.
Remove makeup first. If you wear a heavy layer of foundation, the brush can’t clean as well. In some cases, washing with makeup on can cause irritation and breakouts. Use makeup remover or a cleansing towelette first.
Use a gentle cleanser. Look for something that's right for your skin type and lathers for the best clean. Avoid scrubs with abrasive particles.
Do maintenance. Change the brush heads according to the brush’s instructions. A buildup of dirt and bacteria could cause breakouts.
Limit yourself. Since the brush exfoliates, using it more than daily might be too harsh for your skin. Save it for evening cleansing so you can rinse the day’s dirt, sweat, oil, and makeup down the drain.
Know when to stop. At the first sign of redness or irritation, turn the device off. Give your skin a few days to recover before testing to see if you can tolerate the brush once or twice a week.
Thứ Hai, 6 tháng 2, 2017
Thứ Hai, 21 tháng 11, 2016
This Is How You Should *Really* Be Washing Your Face
We debunk 8 common misconceptions about getting your face squeaky clean.
Most of us assume that cleansing is a task so basic it can be accomplished even when you're completely exhausted or slightly tipsy—which, of course, it can. But it turns out that there's a lot more to it than soap and water, says Dr. Doris Day, NYC dermatologist and author of Forget the Facelift. "With so many sophisticated, gentle cleansers that won't strip the skin, using the right one allows moisturizing and antiaging products to absorb more effectively." Clearly, an old-school splash and scrub won't do. Here, the new rules for getting your freshest face.
Myth 1: Wash and Go
It's more of a two-step process. "Remove your makeup before you wash your face," says Montclair, New Jersey, derm Dr. Jeanine Downie. "Many cleansers can't take off concealer or foundation completely, especially around the eyes and nose." Use an oil-based cream, an emollient wipe, or a cleansing oil to dissolve stubborn sunscreen and makeup. Follow with lukewarm water and a dime-size amount of cleanser (look for the ingredients cocamidopropyl betaine or caprylic triglyceride, which are sulfate-free surfactants) on your fingers or a clean, damp washcloth.
Myth 2: Wash Twice a Day
While the jury is still out on how often to cleanse (every a.m. and p.m. or just once at night), all derms agree that over-washing can lead to irritation and a lack of moisture. The rule is to use common sense: Always wash your face after a workout to prevent breakouts, and wash excessively oily skin morning and night. For very dry or sensitive skin, stick to cleansing once daily in the evening.
Myth 3: Close Your Pores
Sorry, folks, but you can skip rituals like massaging your face to increase circulation or splashing with cold water to "close" your pores. "Pores don't open and close," says Downie. In fact, extreme hot or cold can exacerbate problems like rosacea and redness. That said, mild steam can help soften hardened oil in pores, so it's never a bad idea to cleanse in the shower. And "while it feels nice, massage doesn't do much," adds Downie. "Exercise is what boosts your circulation."
Myth 4: Buy Cleanser According to Skin Type
No matter what kind of skin you have, make sure the ingredients list doesn't contain fragrance, which can be irritating; parabens (potentially toxic preservatives); or harsh soap (it's drying). "If a cleanser fits that bill, the formula itself [cream, lotion, foaming, etc.] is more a matter of personal preference," says NYC dermatologist Dr. Brad Katchen. Of course, people with dry skin may prefer formulas with added moisturizers, like glycerin or shea butter. And "if you have oily skin, you might want a foaming wash that leaves skin feeling superclean," says Day.
Myth 5: Scrub to Exfoliate and Smooth
A salicylic- or glycolic-acid cleanser is gentler and more effective than grainy scrubs, and both offer anti-aging benefits and help prevent breakouts. Alternate with your regular wash (start with three times a week), and adjust depending on how your skin is looking and feeling.
Myth 6: Use Toner
"An alcohol-based toner strips off natural oils," explains Day. Not good. "Gentle toners calm the skin and balance pH levels, but with the right cleanser, you don't really need this step." Love the feeling anyway? Choose gentle, alcohol-free versions.
Myth 7: Brush Your Skin to a Healthy Glow
"A brush removes oil, dirt, and dead skin better than your hands can, and it's less aggressive than most exfoliating cleansers or scrubs," says Day. "But it's not something you have to use every night, especially if you're also applying ingredients like retinoids or acids. Too much exfoliation can cause inflammation." Basically: Use, but use sparingly. (Right now we're obsessed with Clarisonic's new acne-cleansing brush head, below.) To keep your brush bacteria-free, rinse and air-dry after use. Oh, and hey, clean freak, like you do with your Brita, replace the brush head every three months.
Myth 8: Spend a Fortune
Save your pricier ingredients, like retinol or antioxidants, for leave-on products instead of washing them down the drain. "They're most effective when they stay concentrated on the skin," says Katchen.
Most of us assume that cleansing is a task so basic it can be accomplished even when you're completely exhausted or slightly tipsy—which, of course, it can. But it turns out that there's a lot more to it than soap and water, says Dr. Doris Day, NYC dermatologist and author of Forget the Facelift. "With so many sophisticated, gentle cleansers that won't strip the skin, using the right one allows moisturizing and antiaging products to absorb more effectively." Clearly, an old-school splash and scrub won't do. Here, the new rules for getting your freshest face.
Myth 1: Wash and Go
It's more of a two-step process. "Remove your makeup before you wash your face," says Montclair, New Jersey, derm Dr. Jeanine Downie. "Many cleansers can't take off concealer or foundation completely, especially around the eyes and nose." Use an oil-based cream, an emollient wipe, or a cleansing oil to dissolve stubborn sunscreen and makeup. Follow with lukewarm water and a dime-size amount of cleanser (look for the ingredients cocamidopropyl betaine or caprylic triglyceride, which are sulfate-free surfactants) on your fingers or a clean, damp washcloth.
Myth 2: Wash Twice a Day
While the jury is still out on how often to cleanse (every a.m. and p.m. or just once at night), all derms agree that over-washing can lead to irritation and a lack of moisture. The rule is to use common sense: Always wash your face after a workout to prevent breakouts, and wash excessively oily skin morning and night. For very dry or sensitive skin, stick to cleansing once daily in the evening.
Myth 3: Close Your Pores
Sorry, folks, but you can skip rituals like massaging your face to increase circulation or splashing with cold water to "close" your pores. "Pores don't open and close," says Downie. In fact, extreme hot or cold can exacerbate problems like rosacea and redness. That said, mild steam can help soften hardened oil in pores, so it's never a bad idea to cleanse in the shower. And "while it feels nice, massage doesn't do much," adds Downie. "Exercise is what boosts your circulation."
Myth 4: Buy Cleanser According to Skin Type
No matter what kind of skin you have, make sure the ingredients list doesn't contain fragrance, which can be irritating; parabens (potentially toxic preservatives); or harsh soap (it's drying). "If a cleanser fits that bill, the formula itself [cream, lotion, foaming, etc.] is more a matter of personal preference," says NYC dermatologist Dr. Brad Katchen. Of course, people with dry skin may prefer formulas with added moisturizers, like glycerin or shea butter. And "if you have oily skin, you might want a foaming wash that leaves skin feeling superclean," says Day.
Myth 5: Scrub to Exfoliate and Smooth
A salicylic- or glycolic-acid cleanser is gentler and more effective than grainy scrubs, and both offer anti-aging benefits and help prevent breakouts. Alternate with your regular wash (start with three times a week), and adjust depending on how your skin is looking and feeling.
Myth 6: Use Toner
"An alcohol-based toner strips off natural oils," explains Day. Not good. "Gentle toners calm the skin and balance pH levels, but with the right cleanser, you don't really need this step." Love the feeling anyway? Choose gentle, alcohol-free versions.
Myth 7: Brush Your Skin to a Healthy Glow
"A brush removes oil, dirt, and dead skin better than your hands can, and it's less aggressive than most exfoliating cleansers or scrubs," says Day. "But it's not something you have to use every night, especially if you're also applying ingredients like retinoids or acids. Too much exfoliation can cause inflammation." Basically: Use, but use sparingly. (Right now we're obsessed with Clarisonic's new acne-cleansing brush head, below.) To keep your brush bacteria-free, rinse and air-dry after use. Oh, and hey, clean freak, like you do with your Brita, replace the brush head every three months.
Myth 8: Spend a Fortune
Save your pricier ingredients, like retinol or antioxidants, for leave-on products instead of washing them down the drain. "They're most effective when they stay concentrated on the skin," says Katchen.
Thứ Hai, 7 tháng 11, 2016
5 Best Natural Ingredients for Healthy Hair, Gorgeous Skin & Strong Nails
Many of us follow a strict beauty regimen to keep our skin, hair and nails in good health. In fact, people all over the world spend millions of dollars to enjoy beautiful skin, superb hair and strong nails.
When it comes to beauty, importance should be given to natural ingredients rather than commercial beauty products. Chemicals and toxins in commercial products can do a lot of harm in the long run.
There are many natural ingredients in your kitchen that shouldn’t be underestimated.
Here are the top 5 natural ingredients for healthy hair, gorgeous skin and strong nails.
1. Olive Oil
When it comes to the best beauty products from your kitchen, you simply cannot ignore olive oil.
Being a powerful emollient, it adds body, shine, softness and resilience to your hair. It easily penetrates all the way down to the hair shafts to help retain moisture.
Apart from being one of the best oils for hair, it is also good for your skin and nails. The monounsaturated fatty acids in olive oil help protect the skin against photo aging from prolonged sun or other ultraviolet (UV) exposure, according to a 2012 study published in PLOS ONE.
Olive oil is also good for weak and brittle nails. The moisturizing property of this oil helps repair damage and softens nails and cuticles.
To enhance your overall health, include 1 to 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil in your regular daily diet. Also, you can use it in your beauty regimen specifically for your hair, skin and nails.
Hair: Massage your scalp with warm olive oil for a few minutes. Cover your hair with a shower cap and allow the oil to soak in for 30 to 45 minutes. Finally, shampoo your hair as usual. Use this hair care treatment twice a week to enjoy healthy and beautiful hair.
Skin: Massage your body with some warm olive oil. Wait 30 minutes, then take a shower. Gently pat dry your skin and apply a light moisturizer. Use this remedy daily to enjoy flawless skin.
Nails: Massage your nails thoroughly with some warm olive oil. Wait 15 minutes before rinsing it off with warm water. Do this 2 or 3 times daily.
2. Avocado
Whether it is the fruit, seed or its oil, avocado should be a part of your beauty care regimen. From dry skin to scars and hangnails to damaged hair, avocado has many beauty uses.
Eating half an avocado daily helps protect your skin. A 2012 study published in the Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology journal reports that regular intake of avocado bolsters cells’ power centers against harmful free radicals.
It is also one of Mother Nature’s best moisturizers. Being a humectant, it keeps both skin and hair well moisturized. The high amount of healthy fat, vitamin E and protein in avocado helps protect the skin from damage, keep your hair healthy and prevent hangnails.
Here are some ways to use avocado to enhance the beauty of your hair, skin and nails.
Hair: Make a hair mask with 1 mashed ripe avocado and 1 tablespoon each of jojoba oil/olive oil and yogurt. Apply the mask on your damp hair. Put a shower cap on for 1 hour, then rinse the mask out with lukewarm water. Use this hair mask once a week. You can also massage avocado oil into your scalp once or twice a week.
Skin: To promote healthy and soft skin, rub the pulp of ripe avocado against your skin 30 minutes before taking a shower. Repeat this treatment 2 or 3 times a week.
Nails: Prepare a paste with 1 tablespoon of avocado pulp and a little coconut oil. Apply it on your nails for a couple of hours. Rinse it off with lukewarm water and pat dry. Do this once in a while to keep your nails healthy and prevent hangnails.
3. Green Tea
Green tea has many beauty benefits. The high-quality antioxidants in this tea prevent harmful free-radical damage that contributes to skin aging. It protects the skin against UV damage and reduces signs of premature aging like wrinkles, age spots and saggy skin.
A 2003 study by the Medical College of Georgia notes that green tea aids skin rejuvenation. It can be used to treat skin diseases and wounds.
When it comes to hair, the catechins in green tea contain 5-alpha-reductase inhibiting properties that help block DHT (dihydrotestosterone), one of the key causes of hair loss. A 2005 study published in the Journal of the National Medical Association reports that the polyphenols in green tea prevented hair loss in rodents.
Green tea is even good for strong and healthy nails. It also prevents yellowing of nails.
Simply drinking green tea 2 or 3 times a day will help to enjoy beautiful hair, skin and nails. Also, use the following beauty remedies.
Hair: Brew 3 to 4 cups of green tea, depending upon the length of your hair. Allow the tea to cool. Pour the tea on your damp hair and allow it to sit for 10 minutes. Then, wash your hair with a mild shampoo. Use this remedy 2 or 3 times a week to nourish your hair and boost hair growth.
Skin: Empty the contents of 1 or 2 used green tea bags into a bowl. Add 1 teaspoon of honey and a little lemon juice to it and mix thoroughly. Apply it on your clean face and neck, leave it on for 10 minutes and then rinse it off. Do this once or twice a week.
Nails: Brew a cup of green tea, add a few drops of wheat germ oil and allow it to cool. Soak your nails in it for 10 to 15 minutes, twice a week.
4. Lemons
Lemons are a nutritional powerhouse that are excellent for your hair, skin and nails. The fruit’s juice as well as its oil and peel can be used for beauty purposes.
Lemons are rich in vitamin C, an antioxidant that combats free-radical damage that can lead to aging. It even boosts collagen production, which restores skin elasticity to help maintain a smooth and youthful appearance.
A 2013 study published in the Indian Dermatology Online Journal reports that vitamin C is helpful in treating photo aging, hyperpigmentation, tissue inflammation and promotion of tissue healing.
When it comes to hair, lemon is effective at treating dandruff and scalp itchiness. It helps balance the pH level of your scalp to prevent scalp infection and support hair growth.
Lemon also supports nail growth and prevents yellowing of nails.
Starting your day with a glass of lemon water can help your skin and hair look beautiful from within. These natural beauty remedies will ensure that you feel gorgeous on every front.
Hair: Add the juice of 2 lemons to 1 cup of water. After shampooing, rinse your hair with this solution. Wait 5 minutes, then rinse your hair with plain water. Use this remedy once or twice a week.
Skin: Put some honey on a piece of lemon and use it to gently rub your face, neck, hands and legs. Allow the juice to remain on your skin for 5 to 10 minutes, then take a shower. Do this once or twice a week.
Nails: Prepare a nail soak with equal amounts of lemon juice and castor oil or argan oil. Soak your nails in it for 10 to 15 minutes. Repeat this remedy a few times a week.
5. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil contains many nutritional properties that support the health of your hair, skin as well as nails.
The moisturizing property of coconut oil helps seal in your skin’s moisture, which is important for soft and smooth skin. It is even effective at protecting the skin from sun damage. Its fatty acid content helps reduce inflammation and revitalize the skin.
A 2004 study published in Dermatitis reports that coconut oil is as effective and safe as mineral oil when used as a moisturizer. It shows significant improvement in skin hydration and increase in skin surface lipid levels.
Being rich in medium-chain triglycerides, coconut oil easily penetrates deep into hair shafts, which in turn supports hair growth.
A 1999 study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Science reports the positive effect of coconut oil on prevention of hair damage in grooming processes when it is used as a prewash conditioner. It also has a protective effect on chemically treated hair and hair treated with boiling water. The hydrophobicity of coconut oil seems to be responsible for this effect.
Coconut oil also helps keep your nails moisturized and strong. It even strengthens your cuticles, which is important for nail growth.
For overall good health, consume 1 to 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin coconut oil daily. For targeting hair, skin and nail health, try the following home remedies.
Hair: Massage your scalp with warm coconut oil before going to bed. The next day, shampoo your hair as usual. Do this 2 or 3 times a week.
Skin: Apply lukewarm coconut oil all over your body. Wait about 30 minutes, then take a shower. Finally, apply a light moisturizer. Do this daily to soothe dry skin. To combat extremely dry skin, you can also apply a layer of coconut oil on your skin immediately after taking a bath or shower.
Nails: Massage your nails and hands with warm extra-virgin coconut oil for 5 to 10 minutes daily, at night before going to bed.
When it comes to beauty, importance should be given to natural ingredients rather than commercial beauty products. Chemicals and toxins in commercial products can do a lot of harm in the long run.
There are many natural ingredients in your kitchen that shouldn’t be underestimated.
Here are the top 5 natural ingredients for healthy hair, gorgeous skin and strong nails.
1. Olive Oil
When it comes to the best beauty products from your kitchen, you simply cannot ignore olive oil.
Being a powerful emollient, it adds body, shine, softness and resilience to your hair. It easily penetrates all the way down to the hair shafts to help retain moisture.
Apart from being one of the best oils for hair, it is also good for your skin and nails. The monounsaturated fatty acids in olive oil help protect the skin against photo aging from prolonged sun or other ultraviolet (UV) exposure, according to a 2012 study published in PLOS ONE.
Olive oil is also good for weak and brittle nails. The moisturizing property of this oil helps repair damage and softens nails and cuticles.
To enhance your overall health, include 1 to 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil in your regular daily diet. Also, you can use it in your beauty regimen specifically for your hair, skin and nails.
Hair: Massage your scalp with warm olive oil for a few minutes. Cover your hair with a shower cap and allow the oil to soak in for 30 to 45 minutes. Finally, shampoo your hair as usual. Use this hair care treatment twice a week to enjoy healthy and beautiful hair.
Skin: Massage your body with some warm olive oil. Wait 30 minutes, then take a shower. Gently pat dry your skin and apply a light moisturizer. Use this remedy daily to enjoy flawless skin.
Nails: Massage your nails thoroughly with some warm olive oil. Wait 15 minutes before rinsing it off with warm water. Do this 2 or 3 times daily.
2. Avocado
Whether it is the fruit, seed or its oil, avocado should be a part of your beauty care regimen. From dry skin to scars and hangnails to damaged hair, avocado has many beauty uses.
Eating half an avocado daily helps protect your skin. A 2012 study published in the Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology journal reports that regular intake of avocado bolsters cells’ power centers against harmful free radicals.
It is also one of Mother Nature’s best moisturizers. Being a humectant, it keeps both skin and hair well moisturized. The high amount of healthy fat, vitamin E and protein in avocado helps protect the skin from damage, keep your hair healthy and prevent hangnails.
Here are some ways to use avocado to enhance the beauty of your hair, skin and nails.
Hair: Make a hair mask with 1 mashed ripe avocado and 1 tablespoon each of jojoba oil/olive oil and yogurt. Apply the mask on your damp hair. Put a shower cap on for 1 hour, then rinse the mask out with lukewarm water. Use this hair mask once a week. You can also massage avocado oil into your scalp once or twice a week.
Skin: To promote healthy and soft skin, rub the pulp of ripe avocado against your skin 30 minutes before taking a shower. Repeat this treatment 2 or 3 times a week.
Nails: Prepare a paste with 1 tablespoon of avocado pulp and a little coconut oil. Apply it on your nails for a couple of hours. Rinse it off with lukewarm water and pat dry. Do this once in a while to keep your nails healthy and prevent hangnails.
3. Green Tea
Green tea has many beauty benefits. The high-quality antioxidants in this tea prevent harmful free-radical damage that contributes to skin aging. It protects the skin against UV damage and reduces signs of premature aging like wrinkles, age spots and saggy skin.
A 2003 study by the Medical College of Georgia notes that green tea aids skin rejuvenation. It can be used to treat skin diseases and wounds.
When it comes to hair, the catechins in green tea contain 5-alpha-reductase inhibiting properties that help block DHT (dihydrotestosterone), one of the key causes of hair loss. A 2005 study published in the Journal of the National Medical Association reports that the polyphenols in green tea prevented hair loss in rodents.
Green tea is even good for strong and healthy nails. It also prevents yellowing of nails.
Simply drinking green tea 2 or 3 times a day will help to enjoy beautiful hair, skin and nails. Also, use the following beauty remedies.
Hair: Brew 3 to 4 cups of green tea, depending upon the length of your hair. Allow the tea to cool. Pour the tea on your damp hair and allow it to sit for 10 minutes. Then, wash your hair with a mild shampoo. Use this remedy 2 or 3 times a week to nourish your hair and boost hair growth.
Skin: Empty the contents of 1 or 2 used green tea bags into a bowl. Add 1 teaspoon of honey and a little lemon juice to it and mix thoroughly. Apply it on your clean face and neck, leave it on for 10 minutes and then rinse it off. Do this once or twice a week.
Nails: Brew a cup of green tea, add a few drops of wheat germ oil and allow it to cool. Soak your nails in it for 10 to 15 minutes, twice a week.
4. Lemons
Lemons are a nutritional powerhouse that are excellent for your hair, skin and nails. The fruit’s juice as well as its oil and peel can be used for beauty purposes.
Lemons are rich in vitamin C, an antioxidant that combats free-radical damage that can lead to aging. It even boosts collagen production, which restores skin elasticity to help maintain a smooth and youthful appearance.
A 2013 study published in the Indian Dermatology Online Journal reports that vitamin C is helpful in treating photo aging, hyperpigmentation, tissue inflammation and promotion of tissue healing.
When it comes to hair, lemon is effective at treating dandruff and scalp itchiness. It helps balance the pH level of your scalp to prevent scalp infection and support hair growth.
Lemon also supports nail growth and prevents yellowing of nails.
Starting your day with a glass of lemon water can help your skin and hair look beautiful from within. These natural beauty remedies will ensure that you feel gorgeous on every front.
Hair: Add the juice of 2 lemons to 1 cup of water. After shampooing, rinse your hair with this solution. Wait 5 minutes, then rinse your hair with plain water. Use this remedy once or twice a week.
Skin: Put some honey on a piece of lemon and use it to gently rub your face, neck, hands and legs. Allow the juice to remain on your skin for 5 to 10 minutes, then take a shower. Do this once or twice a week.
Nails: Prepare a nail soak with equal amounts of lemon juice and castor oil or argan oil. Soak your nails in it for 10 to 15 minutes. Repeat this remedy a few times a week.
5. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil contains many nutritional properties that support the health of your hair, skin as well as nails.
The moisturizing property of coconut oil helps seal in your skin’s moisture, which is important for soft and smooth skin. It is even effective at protecting the skin from sun damage. Its fatty acid content helps reduce inflammation and revitalize the skin.
A 2004 study published in Dermatitis reports that coconut oil is as effective and safe as mineral oil when used as a moisturizer. It shows significant improvement in skin hydration and increase in skin surface lipid levels.
Being rich in medium-chain triglycerides, coconut oil easily penetrates deep into hair shafts, which in turn supports hair growth.
A 1999 study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Science reports the positive effect of coconut oil on prevention of hair damage in grooming processes when it is used as a prewash conditioner. It also has a protective effect on chemically treated hair and hair treated with boiling water. The hydrophobicity of coconut oil seems to be responsible for this effect.
Coconut oil also helps keep your nails moisturized and strong. It even strengthens your cuticles, which is important for nail growth.
For overall good health, consume 1 to 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin coconut oil daily. For targeting hair, skin and nail health, try the following home remedies.
Hair: Massage your scalp with warm coconut oil before going to bed. The next day, shampoo your hair as usual. Do this 2 or 3 times a week.
Skin: Apply lukewarm coconut oil all over your body. Wait about 30 minutes, then take a shower. Finally, apply a light moisturizer. Do this daily to soothe dry skin. To combat extremely dry skin, you can also apply a layer of coconut oil on your skin immediately after taking a bath or shower.
Nails: Massage your nails and hands with warm extra-virgin coconut oil for 5 to 10 minutes daily, at night before going to bed.
Chủ Nhật, 28 tháng 8, 2016
How to Protect Your Hair From Sun, Chlorine, and Salt Water--Beautiful Skin And Nails
How to Protect Your Hair From Sun, Chlorine, and Salt Water
Sun. Chlorine. Salt water. The best parts of summer can leave our hair a complete mess come Labor Day. Our locks take a beating during the warmer months, leaving strands dry, color-faded, frizzy, and greasy. Even air conditioning can do a number on hair.
So what gives? Is there any way to keep our hair healthy and still enjoy a dip in the pool? Luckily, there are plenty. We tapped New York City-based hairstylist Nathan Rosenkranz to understand what happens to our hair during the summer, what we can do to fix it, plus a few ways to rehabilitate our hair come fall.
Lock in moisture
Sun exposure, salt water, and sweat can pull moisture from your strands, leaving them dry and prone to breakage. To avoid this, “start with wearing a nice wide brimmed hat to keep the sun off of your hair,” says Rosenkranz. This will help keep the sun’s rays off your hair, thus protecting your hair from dryness and preserving the color (with the added bonus of protecting your skin!). Double up by using a product that both moisturizes and shields your hair from UV rays. Rosenkranz recommends Bamboo Beach Summer Sun Recovery Spray from Alterna Haircare ($22; sephora.com).
Create a shield
"In the summer we're more frequently exposing our hair to the chemicals in pools, salt water, and spending more time in the heat, all of which will strip your hair of its beautiful color," says Rosenkranz. Before going for a swim in the pool or ocean, he recommends wetting your hair completely and thoroughly applying a leave-in conditioner. “Your hair will absorb the conditioner instead of the chlorine or salt water,” he says. Try EverPure Damage Protect Leave in Treatment from L'Oreal Paris ($9; amazon.com), which is sulfate-free and also works to restore damage.
Fight frizz
The key to combating frizzy hair is locking out the humidity. “Humidity is like Miracle Gro for flyaways,” says Rosenkranz, “so anyone who is prone to frizzy hair will be suffering extra during the humidity brought on by summer showers.” You can do this with an oil, like Oleo Miracle Replenishing Oil from DESSANGE Paris ($12; target.com). It's loaded with three oils—argan, camelia, and pracaxi, which work together to leave your hair both smooth and soft.
Hide grease
A sweatier body leads to greasier hair. "When it's hot, your scalp sweats, transferring the naturally occurring sebum throughout the hair more, which can cause the hair to look greasy," says Rosenkranz. "Not a good look!" To fix this, he recommends using an absorbent dry shampoo, like Batiste Dry Shampoo ($6; amazon.com).
How to rehab hair after summer
If you haven't spent the summer protecting your mane from the sun and surf, you can repair damaged locks once the weather starts to cool. "First, look for good treatments," says Rosenkranz. He has been recommending Caviar Moisture Intense Oil Crème Pre-Shampoo Treatment ($30; sephora.com) to revitalize your hair. You apply the treatment 15 minutes before shampooing. "In addition to boosting the moisturizing benefits of your existing shampoo and conditioner regimen, it moisturizes to revitalize dehydrated strands, leaving hair supremely smooth, soft, and shiny." The big takeaway here: moisture!
Thứ Sáu, 19 tháng 8, 2016
How to Remove Literally Every Type of Makeup--Beautiful Skin And Nails
How to Remove Literally Every Type of Makeup
Confession time. No matter how much I obsess about beauty, I am the worst when it comes to makeup removal. I will fully admit there have been nights where I slap a wipe across my face and call it quits, only to wake up with crusty remnants of my creation from the night before. We’ve all been told a thousand times that failing to really remove your makeup could cause skin issues, so what gives with the lack of effort in our removal routine?
For me, it’s that I don’t really have a game plan, so I talked to celebrity makeup artist, Nick Barose, (who’s client list includes Lupita Nyong’o, Brie Larson, Amy Poehler!) to get the scoop on how to remove every type of makeup with minimal effort.
How to Remove Literally Every Type of Makeup
For eye makeup, like mascara and eyeliner:
Barose recommends taking a gentle approach. He likes to soak cotton swabs with Lancome Bi-Facil Double-Action Makeup Remover ($15, lancome-usa.com) and lets them sit on the eyes for a few seconds before wiping. “This will take things off without being too aggressive,” he explains. To avoid raccoon eyes from stubborn eyeliner, he suggests dipping cotton swabs, like DHC Olive Virgin Oil swabs ($6, dhccare.com), in the Lancome Bi-Facil to gently target the area where makeup is sticking around.
For face makeup, like foundation, concealer, and blush:
You can start by massaging your face with cleansing water to break down the makeup. Barose likes Koh Gen Do Spa Cleansing Water ($39, sephora.com). Then, he uses a makeup remover wipe, like Pixi By Petra Moisturizing Cleansing Cloths ($10, target.com), to pick up anything left over. The next step would be to rinse your face and cleanse.
However, you can skip that step if you don’t have a ton of product on. “If you don’t wear that much makeup, then usually the cleansing water is enough followed by washing the face,” he explains.
For lip makeup, like lipstick, lip gloss, and lip gloss:
It really depends on how long wearing the product is, explains Nick. “In general, if it is a soft color and not a long-wearing formula, then just a makeup wipe is enough.”
For more stubborn color and bold shades (hello, Taylor Swift red), he uses DHC Eye and Lips Remover ($12.50, dhccare.com) to fully remove the hue. No matter what, you should always always end any lip makeup removal with a lip balm to keep your puckers from looking like the Sahara desert.
So no more excuses for me—and I hope none for you either. With this easy routine, you can hit the pillows with a fresh face every night. Your skin will thank you.
Chủ Nhật, 14 tháng 8, 2016
The Best Home Remedies for Dandruff, According to Dermatologists--Beautiful Skin And Nails
The Best Home Remedies for Dandruff, According to Dermatologists
If you're one of the nearly 50% of Americans who struggles with dandruff, you're probably familiar with its telltale symptoms: itchiness, a dry scalp, white flakes appearing on your dark sweaters. The chronic skin condition can be caused by dry skin, a sensitivity to certain hair products, or a yeast-like fungus called Malassezia. And while there are over-the-counter shampoos that can help combat flakes, you may already have a potential solution sitting in your pantry. Experts say at-home remedies such as coconut oil and crushed aspirin can go a long way towards easing the itch and fighting dandruff-causing yeast.
Here, five at-home treatments that dermatologists recommend to their patients.
Coconut oil
One of the most popular natural dandruff remedies, coconut oil can help reduce some of the yeast that contributes to flakes, explains Geeta Shah, MD, a Maryland-based dermatologist. She recommends massaging a small amount into your scalp and leaving it there for at least 15-20 minutes. "The longer the better," she says. "Some people even leave it on overnight with a towel or shower cap so it penetrates a little deeper." One caveat: It may take a few washes to fully rinse out of strands, so maybe don't try this right before date night.
Apple cider vinegar
Thanks to its high pH, apple cider vinegar can also help inhibit the growth of flake-causing yeast, says Dr. Shah. But unlike coconut oil, you shouldn't put it directly on your hair: "You want to dilute it," she says. "I recommend a half and half solution of half vinegar, half water." Apply the mixture to your scalp and let it soak in for at least 15 minutes. There will be a lingering vinegar smell even after you shampoo, she says, "but it fades pretty quickly and [vinegar] is easier to get out of the scalp and hair [than coconut oil]."
Aspirin
Like many over-the-counter dandruff remedies, aspirin contains salicylic acid, which can help reduce flaking, says Dr. Shah. To use, crush a few aspirin and mix with water to create a paste that you can apply to your scalp. Another option: Add the crushed aspirin to your shampoo to give it an instant dandruff-fighting boost.
Aloe vera
Unlike other natural remedies, aloe vera won't necessarily help get rid of dandruff, since it doesn't attack the yeast that's often at the root (see what we did there?) cause of white flakes. However, it can offer other benefits: "Some people have a lot of inflammation from dandruff, and aloe vera is anti-inflammatory, so it helps the itching," says Debra Jaliman, MD, a New York City-based dermatologist. Rub a small amount on your scalp for fast, cooling relief.
Tea tree oil
Another great natural anti-inflammatory: tea treat oil. Mona Gohara, MD, a Connecticut dermatologist and associate clinical professor at Yale, suggests adding a few drops to your regular shampoo to calm your scalp.
Thứ Năm, 4 tháng 8, 2016
How to Remove Literally Every Type of Makeup--Beautiful Skin And Nails
How to Remove Literally Every Type of Makeup
Confession time. No matter how much I obsess about beauty, I am the worst when it comes to makeup removal. I will fully admit there have been nights where I slap a wipe across my face and call it quits, only to wake up with crusty remnants of my creation from the night before. We’ve all been told a thousand times that failing to really remove your makeup could cause skin issues, so what gives with the lack of effort in our removal routine?
For me, it’s that I don’t really have a game plan, so I talked to celebrity makeup artist, Nick Barose, (who’s client list includes Lupita Nyong’o, Brie Larson, Amy Poehler!) to get the scoop on how to remove every type of makeup with minimal effort.
For eye makeup, like mascara and eyeliner:
Barose recommends taking a gentle approach. He likes to soak cotton swabs with Lancome Bi-Facil Double-Action Makeup Remover ($15, lancome-usa.com) and lets them sit on the eyes for a few seconds before wiping. “This will take things off without being too aggressive,” he explains. To avoid raccoon eyes from stubborn eyeliner, he suggests dipping cotton swabs, like DHC Olive Virgin Oil swabs ($6, dhccare.com), in the Lancome Bi-Facil to gently target the area where makeup is sticking around.
For face makeup, like foundation, concealer, and blush:
You can start by massaging your face with cleansing water to break down the makeup. Barose likes Koh Gen Do Spa Cleansing Water ($39, sephora.com). Then, he uses a makeup remover wipe, like Pixi By Petra Moisturizing Cleansing Cloths ($10, target.com), to pick up anything left over. The next step would be to rinse your face and cleanse.
However, you can skip that step if you don’t have a ton of product on. “If you don’t wear that much makeup, then usually the cleansing water is enough followed by washing the face,” he explains.
For lip makeup, like lipstick, lip gloss, and lip gloss:
It really depends on how long wearing the product is, explains Nick. “In general, if it is a soft color and not a long-wearing formula, then just a makeup wipe is enough.”
For more stubborn color and bold shades (hello, Taylor Swift red), he uses DHC Eye and Lips Remover ($12.50, dhccare.com) to fully remove the hue. No matter what, you should always always end any lip makeup removal with a lip balm to keep your puckers from looking like the Sahara desert.
So no more excuses for me—and I hope none for you either. With this easy routine, you can hit the pillows with a fresh face every night. Your skin will thank you.
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