Information about Cucumbers

Your skin has many other purposes other than being beautiful and serving as an eye candy for everyone. It protects our internal organs from any of the external adversities as far as possible.

First a little Information about Cucumbers

Types of cucumber include:

Dosakai -
A cucumber that is yellow in color, has a round shape and is available in many parts of India. Commonly added in Chutney, Sambar or Soup, Daal and also in making Dosa-Aavakaaya (a type of Indian Pickle).

English cucumbers -
Have very little in the way of seeds and can grow to around 2 feet in length.

Mediterranean cucumbers -
Skins are smooth with nearly seedless flesh, they have a mild taste.

Japanese cucumbers or kyrie -
A dark green cucumber with a very bumpy skin. Mainly used for slicing, salads and pickling.

Cucumber is a very edible fruit which comes from the cucumber plant cucumis sativus, which is part of the gourd family.
It is being used for different purpose as it can be eaten raw or cooked.
With so many health benefits it becomes one of the most important parts of food diet as well as skin diet. In North America, the term 'wild cucumber' refers to manroot.

Cucumber can claim to be a water body as it has 90% water.
It is known to be a cooling agent due to the water in it.

Cucumber for Eyes

It is believed that cucumber helps in reducing swelling around the eyes or the big dark circles under your eyes. This is world-wide treatment which is being used to its maximum extent.

Cucumbers are the most wonderful and natural eye pads you can find for yourself.
The puffiness and the tiredness in your eyes may just leave you, if you do this in a relaxed fashion. These natural eye pads do wonders after a long days work.

Cucumber for Skin

If you want a happy skin, then cucumber is the answer. As cucumber and the skin share the same level of hydrogen, it becomes easier for cucumber to mask all the problem areas. It helps in soothing and softening your skin which can get you relaxed in no time.

With so many useful ingredients in cucumber it can help you in treating so many skin problems. It has become part of daily beauty product into face packs, facials, juice and many other things which can affect your skin.

Due to its cooling effect it can be termed as a magic wand for all your skin problems. The cleaning and cleansing property helps your skin tremendously making it soft and supple.

The regular intake of cucumber juice is very useful both internally and externally.

To have a healthy glowing and smooth skin use this recipe

Blend 4 - 5 leafs of fresh mint.

Peel and deseed the cucumber.

Add mint leaves to the cucumber to make a puree.

Beat egg white and keep it separate, then add this egg white to the cucumber mixture.

Apply this evenly on your face for 20 minutes and then rinse it with water and pat it dry.

Natural skin care treatment and remedies: Almond Oil, Honey, Lime Juice, Neem Leaves, Yogurt and more

Natural skin care treatment and remedies
- Using Almond Oil, Honey, Lime Juice, Neem Leaves, Yogurt and more

Your skin care treatment for your skin problems lies in your kitchen. Use natural skin care treatment and remedies. Why waste money on skin care products. They actually harm your skin.

Almond Oil
Almond oil is good for dryness of the skin and for removing scars of old pimples. Ground the outer cover of 3-5 almonds in with water and apply over the face daily.

Apples
Apply or drink juice of pineapple for body and facial pains.
Apply juice of green apples for fine wrinkles, cracked skin, itching and inflammations.

Apricots
Apply fresh juice of apricots on face good for sunburn, itching, and eczema.

Bengal Gram Flour
Apply a paste of Bengal Gram flour with yogurt for the treatment of pimples and other skin allergies.
Apply green gram flour mixed in water or glycerine for improving complexion.

Cucumber
Apply cucumber juice or grated cucumber or cucumber juice mixed with juices of carrot, lettuce or alfalfa over the face for skin eruptions.

Drumsticks
Apply a paste of ground drumstick pods and leaves with fresh lime juice for the treatment of pimples, black spots and blackheads.

Fenugreek
Apply a paste of fresh fenugreek leaves in water over the face every night and washed with warm water in the morning for preventing pimples, blackheads, dryness, and wrinkles.
Apply a decoction on the face, made by boiling 1 tsp fenugreek seeds in 1 liter water for a few of minutes for preventing pimples, blackheads, dryness, and wrinkles.

Garlic
Rub raw garlic on the face for persistent pimples. The pimples will disappear without scars with repeated applications.
Mix 3-4 raw, skinned garlic, finely cut garlic with puffed rice, and swallow with water to clear skin infections quickly.

Peanut Oil
Mix 1 tsp peanut oil with 1 tsp fresh lime juice to prevent formation of blackheads and pimples .

Honey
Apply honey (1 tsp) mixed with water for all skin blemishes. This will turn your skin glowing.
Apply honey mixed with milk, yogurt, and ground sesame seeds in equal proportions for fair complexion and lovely skin.

Lime Juice
Apply fresh lime juice mixed to a glass of boiled milk as a face wash for pimples blackheads, and cracked skin.

Mangoes
Boil mangoes leaves and skin in water and apply for skin infection.

Mint
Apply fresh mint juice over the face every night for the treatment of pimples, insect stings, eczema, scabies, & other skin infections.

Neem Leaves
Swallow 10 fresh ground neem leaves with water to clear the skin.
Chew fresh neem leaves and then swallow with water to remove bad odor from the mouth.

Orange
Apply a paste of ground orange peel (dried) with water for acne/pimples.

Papaya or Paw Paw
Apply and drink the juice of raw papaya including the skin and seed for treatment of swelling pimples, acne, or any abnormal growth of the skin. It also removes whiteheads, boils, and spots.
Rub raw or ripe papaya on your face to get a smooth and glowing skin.

Pineapples
Apply or drink juice of pineapple for body and facial pains.
For removing fine wrinkles, rub the core of pineapple for a few minutes and leave for 15 minutes
Apply juice of pineapples for fine wrinkles, cracked skin, itching and inflammations.

Pomegranate
Make a paste of roasted & powdered pomegranate skin with fresh lime juice and apply over boils, pimple, blackheads and whiteheads.

Potatoes
Apply grated potatoes as poultice to treat skin blemishes, wrinkles, boils, pimples, blackheads, whiteheads , etc.

Radish
Make a paste of ground radish seeds with water and apply on face to remove blackheads.
Apply grated white radish or its juice for fairer complexion.

Rice
Apply a paste of rice powder with water as a poultice for soothing bleeding pimples and skin inflammations.

Sesame Seeds
Apply a paste of ground sesame seeds with water as poultice for inflammation of the skin due to allergies, skin rashes, and pimples.

Tomatoes
Apply red tomatoes pulp on your face for treatment of pimples for 1 hour, then wash thoroughly.

Turmeric
Apply a paste of turmeric powder with pineapple juice for dark circles under the eyes.
Apply a paste of turmeric powder with gram flour or whole wheat flour for minor skin blemishes.
Apply a paste of turmeric powder with sugarcane juice to remove wrinkles and to prevent skin ageing.

Wheat Flour
Apply a paste of whole wheat flour with vinegar to remove dark spots.

Yogurt
Apply a paste of yogurt with wheat flour as a cleanser.

The Best Makeup Foundations for Oily and Acne Prone Skin

I don't know how much anyone could understand this article, but still for those who know about it, may try it out. I haven't :)

The Best Makeup Foundations for Oily and Acne Prone Skin

The best makeup foundations for oily and acne prone skin are ones that will minimize the oil and prevent future outbreaks.

The makeup you wear will have a direct impact on the condition of your skin. When choosing a foundation for oily and acne prone skin it is important to look for a product that will absorb the oil your skin produces and that will work to minimize and heal acne.

The best foundations for oily and acne prone skin are foundations that are oil free, matte or semi-matte because they will help absorb the oil without aggravating the skin. There are also several foundations available, and listed below, with an added acne fighting ingredient – salicylic acid. Salicylic acid prevents pores from being blocked/plugged and helps to heal acne breakouts.

Flickr Photo Credit: Vincent Boiteau
Flickr Photo Credit: Vincent Boiteau

The foundation you choose will depend on the type of coverage you are looking for. Some people who have oily and acne prone skin prefer medium to full coverage while others want to put as little as possible on their skin and opt for a minimum coverage or sheer makeup foundation.

* Dermablend Acne Results Foundation
* Mary Kay Dual Coverage Powder Foundation
* Maybelline H2O Pure Foundation
* Neutrogena skin clearing foundation
* Almay Clear Complexion Blemish Healing Makeup
* Estee Lauder Demi-Matte Foundation
* Almay Oil Control Makeup
* Bourjois Happy Light Foundation:
* Laura Mercier Oil Free Foundation
* Cover Girl Pure Makeup
* Physicians Formula Mineral Wear Mineral Powders (without Bismuth Oxychloride)

Neem Acne Treatments for Clear Skin

Using Neem to Treat Acne Breakouts

Neem oil possesses a variety of healing and health promoting properties and is considered antibacterial, anti-fungal, antiseptic and astringent. The neem tree is often referred to as the “Dvine Tree” and is routinely recommended by Ayurvedic practitioners for the treatment of skin ailments including acne, eczema, psoriasis, and athlete’s foot.

Neem oil is harvested from Neem trees (Azadirachta indica) in India , Bangladesh , Sri Lanka , Malaysia and Pakistan . The tree is an ancient species that has been used for centuries in the semi tropical regions of the world for its medicinal properties.

Neem is an herb used for myriad medicinal and therapeutic purposes including acne. The key to using neem as an acne treatment is to ensure that the product that is being used is free of harsh chemicals that can irritate the skin. There is no point in investing in a product containing neem if the other ingredients in the product are irritating or abrasive because it will counteract the effects of the neem and result in dry irritated skin with more acne.
Neem is Antibacterial which can Help Heal Acne Breakouts

When it comes to acne it is important to control the acne bacteria on the skin that is causing the breakouts. Neem is an excellent topical herb used in a variety of cosmetics and skin care products to control and treat the bacteria that is causing the acne breakout. In addition to healing the skin and preventing future break outs, neem also improves the tone and texture of the skin and is effective at preventing inflammation and reducing redness and swelling.

Remember, when it comes to acne everyone is different – from what is causing the acne to how often the acne breakouts occur. In addition to treating an acne breakout with herbs such as neem it is also critically important to follow the clear skin diet and make sure all the products being used on your skin are free of harmful acne causing chemicals such a sodium laureth sulfate and bismuth oxychloride.


The less you put on your skin the better – so if you plan on using Neem as part of your acne treatment use it in a skin care product such as a cleanser or a moisturizer.

Cleaning clogged arteries and blood vessels naturally?

Cleaning clogged arteries and blood vessels naturally?
- Effective for clean & clear skin

Mix and brew at medium heat for half an hour, so the total volume is reduced to 3 cups.

1. One cup of Lemon juice
2. One cup of garlic juice
3. One cup of Apple vinegar
4. One cup of Ginger juice

Once it cools down, add one cup of honey and stir it for 10 minutes,
pour it in a bottle and store it in a refrigerator.

Every morning , take 3 tablespoon empty stomach for one year.

Caution: If you are diabetic, consult your physician as how harmful can be a spoon of honey daily besides your other daily consumption of RDA.
You have to strike a balance.
Worst case scenario, reduce the honey from the ingredients.

Remember to pray to God for healing; the our Creator and the Creator of all Universe may cure the disease.
Amen
Do not quit any other prescription during the course of this treatment.

Clean Your Blood Toxins | How to Purify Blood Naturally with Herbs

Clean Your Blood Toxins | How to Purify Blood Naturally with Herbs

Detoxification is an important element in maintaining one’s health. This is because if one’s system is unclean and full of impurities, diseases of all sorts are likely to occur. In the same token, purifying the blood is also very important because doing so is the best way to maintain one’s health and keep oneself away and safe from unwanted health problems. In order to detoxify your blood, try consuming the following foods on a regular basis:
Home Remedies Blood Purification

* Drink fresh fruit and vegetable juices.

These foods are rich in nutrients that are badly needed by the body to ensure health and a smooth system. Moreover, they are so desired because fresh vegetable and fruit juices are excellent detoxifiers. Fresh juices made from celery and parsley are the best known detoxifiers of the blood. On the other hand, juices from apple, carrots, beet, and lemon are known for cleansing the kidneys, intestines, and liver.

# One of the factors that can cause toxic substances to remain in your system is indigestion. As such, one should pay attention to the state of one’s digestion. To aid the natural digestion of foods, sprinkle black pepper on your food. Pepper is known to be effective in aiding digestion by stimulating the release of hydrochloric acids that are essential in burning foods. However, if you have low tolerance for spicy foods, makes sure to sprinkle only a small quantity at first.

# One of nature’s wonder foods is garlic, and it is also beneficial in detoxifying your system and in purifying your blood by aiding digestion. Chop three pods of garlic until fine and swallow it with a glass of water. Regular consumption of garlic will detoxify the stomach by reducing toxins and rejuvenating the blood. Moreover, garlic also promotes good intestinal health by promoting the growth of healthy bacteria.

# If there is a pomegranate fruit nearby, dry the peelings of the fruit and ground it until it becomes powdery. Take a teaspoon of this powder and mix it with a glass of warm water. Drink this concoction every morning to detoxify your blood. On the other hand, it is also effective in killing intestinal worms.

# Prepare a mixture of a glass of warm water and a tablespoon of honey and a few drops of lemon juice. Drink this concoction first thing in the morning on an empty stomach.

Naturally Beautiful (Naturopathy)

Naturopathy is fast gaining popularity around the world for its safe and effective healing. In Indian homes, home remedies come before the trip to the doctor. All ailments are believed to be caused by what you eat and what you don't eat. A traditional Indian doctor will first make slight adjustments to your diet before he prescribes a medicine, which is the last resort.

There are various forms of medicine in practice in India, such as Ayurveda, Homeopathy, Unani, etc. Ayurveda is based on the theory that with proper diet and corrective therapy aided by massages, techniques of respiration and through meditation, all problems can be cured. Yoga therapy corrects respiration and all bodily imbalances by the use of different postures that facilitate the above and initiate recovery. Yoga is practiced by itself and can be combined with other therapies as well. Diet plays a very important role in Unani medicine as well. When an illness is being treated, diet is controlled during the initial stages and if the problem persists, medicine is administered.

Similarly, skin ailments are also naturally cured. Be it acne, dryness, a rash etc. In fact, in India skin care and beautifying rituals have such an important place that there are 16 steps to complete care. These are cumulatively called Solah Sringar or 16 adornments. These start with the pre-bath oil massage and go up to the perfuming step. The beautifying ritual for a bride begins with a ceremony in which a mixture of gram flour, turmeric and mustard/vegetable oil or clarified butter is rubbed on her. Then she is given a manicure and a pedicure with milk and on the big day she is bathed in milk and rose water. Milk softens the skin and the rose water cools and deodorizes the body.
For those with oily skin, a mixture of gram flour and turmeric makes for a great scrub and face pack removing excess oil and cleansing the face. There are many such concoctions that Indian women use even today for problems as varied as colds and unwanted hair.
Following are a list of such mixtures guaranteed to work very effectively and if they don't work as desired, you can be sure that there won't be any side effects since these are completely natural.

LEMON
For cough, cold and fever, lemon is very effective. Squeeze a lemon in a glass full of water and drink repeatedly. This will cure all three. But if the fever is high and makes you thirsty, boil the water. This will bring down the fever and reduce the thirst. If the cold is severe, add required amounts of honey in the above mixture. Another very beneficial method is: cut a lemon in half, add in it salt, ground black pepper and powdered molasses. Heat this and squeeze the juice directly on the tongue.
If you don't like the freckles on your face, rub a piece of lemon on them everyday and they will lighten considerably. Sprinkling a little alum on the lemon works wonders for the complexion. Rubbing half a lemon on the teeth not only makes them shiny and bright but will also cure bad breath.
If you are looking to lose some weight, before crash dieting try this: add a little salt and one lemon to 350mls of lukewarm water. Drink this daily on an empty stomach. If you prefer honey to salt, you can substitute. Drink this mixture every time you feel thirsty. Try this for a month and you are sure to see results


MILK
Milk should ideally be consumed in the morning since it is believed that the heat of the sun digests milk. Adding sugar to milk is very harmful since it not only induces phlegm, it also destroys the calcium content in it. It should be drunk at room temperature if possible, or cold. But if you prefer warm milk then don't overheat it. Overheating destroys all its beneficial elements. For the sweetening of milk and easy digestion, add honey to it. Never drink milk if you are suffering from cough, constipation, diarrhea, stomachache or indigestion. For acidity, drink cold milk twice a day. And for tiredness a glass of warm milk will prove effective.
For wrinkles, pimples and blemishes apply warm milk and wash with water. Do this regularly before sleeping at night, it will solve your problem and improve your complexion. Adding a little saffron to a spoonful of fresh milk and applying on the lips will cure their darkness and make them softer.
If you are suffering from an itchy rash, add a little water to some milk and apply on the rash with cotton wool and then wash. It will stop the itch and cure the rash.

SALT
Salt is good only in small quantities and rock salt is better than sea salt. Eating excessive salt weakens the gums and is also the cause of body odour. Due to excessive consumption of salt, body cells die and these dead cells come out from the pores through perspiration. This makes the odour very strong and foul. To help the situation, eat salt in very small quantities. Salt is very drying, thus excessive amounts of salt causes unnatural thirst. Small quantities of it can be very beneficial.
In a headache, keep a pinch of salt on the tongue and ten minutes later drink a cold glass of water. Or, smell a mixture or three grams of salt in one-fourth cup of water.
For a stomachache, mix half a spoon of salt in a glass of hot water and drink. This will not only cure the pain but will also remove the cause of the pain.
For softening the skin, wet the skin and take a fistful of salt, rub on the skin in circular motions and then wash. Do this once a week, it will slough off dead skin thus making it soft. For cracking heels or rough feet, add salt to warm water and soak your feet

Beauty tips to remember

Beautiful Skin :
In today's world with competition and perfection being the most essential thing, it is imperative to look good. Make-up will help you to some extent but what is most important is natural beauty and a glowing skin. The major culprits that ruin and play havoc on our skin are ultraviolet rays, pollution and stress to some extent. However the most important thing for a glowing and a fresh look and skin is regular exercise and a balanced diet. However at the same time you also need to give your skin a little time for its care and here are a few tips for your skin care regime.

Cleansing
Your skin requires proper cleansing to keep it properly toned and clean. Cleansing removes the dust and stress from your face by cleaning the pores and circulating the blood supply. Use a gentle cleansing agent. Face washes are specially prepared to be effective at cleansing your skin gently and tenderly. For your body use a good mild and moisturizing soap.

Moisturizing
It is essential to use good moisturizers since the UV rays and pollution dries your skin thoroughly and makes it lifeless. There is a range of moisturizers available in the market to suit your skin type but what is important here is to pick the right one with the right components in it. Choose moisturizers, which have anti-aging ingredients and vitamins, added to it and use it regularly. Vitamin A or Retinol and Alphahydroxy Acids are the best anti-aging agents. There are several salts of vitamin A and isotretenioin is found to have definite anti-aging properties and is very effective. It is also an effective care for acne but it dries the skin and also can give mild irritation and hence has to be used under the supervision of dermatologist. Vitamin C is found to have antioxidants and thus has a protective effect on the skin. Vitamin E is also an antioxidant and works by quenching oxygen radicals. Oxygen radicals are formed which causes damage to the skin because of pollution and ultraviolet rays. Collagen, Elastin and Hyaluronic Acid are all good moisturizers as they have a good water binding capacity. Ceramides work effectively on the skin barrier function as well as in the metabolism of the skin. However all these components have to be present in a proper concentration and then only can they be effective.

Sunscreens
With the rise in pollution level and the intensity of the ultraviolet rays it is very essential to use sunscreens during daytime to protect your skin form any kind of damage and premature wrinkles even if you are at home because these rays come in through the windows and there is no running away from it. The UVA ultraviolet rays penetrate deep down in the skin and damage not only the top layer of the skin called epidermis but also the collagen and elastin tissues thereby causing wrinkles and sagging skin. These rays tan your skin and also harms the skin immune system thereby making the skin vulnerable to allergies. Another type of UV-rays is UVB. The sunscreen you use should denote the sun protection factor (SPF) and the approximate measure for protection against UVB is 30 or higher is always better and also check out the protection measures against UVA.

Facials
Facial is also a vital step towards beautiful skin.Facial thoroughly cleanse your face and remove the top dead layers of the skin resulting into having a beautiful and glowing skin. Facial moisturizers your face effectively and help in faster cell reneval and relaxes the muscle of the face. Facial can also treat problems like dark patches, treating acne, restoring skin colour and toning the skin. Facial must be done at least once a month and by a professional beautician.

ACNE (PIMPLES)

Acne is a common problem faced by almost all teen-agers and youth. What is acne and why do we get them. Acne is actually caused because of hormone imbalance. Your skin breaks out because of a hormone called testosterone. Both men and women have testosterone in their systems. In fact, did you know that in order to make testosterone, boys bodies have to make female hormones first? If you have acne, you haven't got abnormal levels of testosterone. You've got skin that reacts abnormally to this hormone. You start producing testosterone around the time you start sprouting body hair. Testosterone tells glands in your skin, called sebaceous glands, to produce oily stuff called sebum. To add to the problem the inside of the tubes that hold each hair become gummy and get partially blocked - giving you blackheads. Put together if sebum blocks the tubes --- you have big acne.
So go to your pharmacist or doctor to get your acne treated. Here are a few tips that will help you know how to treat acne at home.

1. If you have red angry looking acne, don't touch it. If you squeeze now, all you'll do is force the contents deeper into the skin that will make matters worst. And all you'll end up with is redder, angrier acne than you had before. Don't do it.

2. If you have a yellow custard top? Go for it. These beauties CAN be squeezed but there's an art to it. Here's how. Wash your hands thoroughly to avoid trouble and infection. Put a tissue over your finger. Why? Because you want the contents of the spot on the tissue, not splattered all over the mirror. Using the side of your thumb and the end of your finger, very gently start to squeeze. Don't whatever you do, use your nails as this will damage your skin. Stop when you're applying a lot of pressure and nothing is happening and you see clear fluid, rather than yellow grotty stuff and the spot begins to bleed. When you've finished dab it with antiseptic. Once the custard bit is out, the spot will heal more quickly than an unsqueezed yellow top would, providing that you now leave it well alone. Now wash your hands again.

3. Whiteheads and blackheads. If acne is left untreated they may cause this problem. Here the rule is if they're black, squeeze but if they're small, white raised lumps leave them alone. All that stuff about clean hands, tissues and stopping if nothing is happening or you see blood, apply here too.

Tips for acne treatment

1. DON'T TRY TO WASH IT AWAY
Acne isn't caused by dirt. In fact people with oily skin have cleaner skin than average because they wash it more often. But it's a fact that washing too much can make acne worse because it makes the skin dry and sore. So, wash no more than twice a day, using mild soap and water. If you have patches of dry skin, don't worry about putting moisturizer on. It won't make your acne worse. If you're still concerned, use an oil free moisturizer.

2. DON'T NUKE 'EM
There are lots of over the counter creams, gels, lotions and potions. Most contain a powerful bleaching agent called benzoyl peroxide. You'll find the strength written on the label. You might be tempted to go straight for the highest sort, working on the 'let's nuke 'em principle. The likely result is that you'll irritate your skin like mad. It may also go all dry and scaly on you. But if you still are willing to bleach then use the mild one.

3. MAKE A DATE - THE TWO MONTH RULE
If you have been using over the counter remedies for two months and there is no real improvement in your spots, this is the moment to go and make an appointment with your doc.

4. YOUR DOCTOR - THE TWO MONTH RULE
The thing you are most likely to be given by the doctor is a prescription for antibiotics. These will either be topical (which means something you put on your skin) or tablets you have to take every day. Whatever treatment your doctor or pharmacist recommends, follow the instructions carefully and keep using for at least two months. There should be a noticeable improvement by this time. If not, go back to discuss other possible treatments Antibiotics are perfectly safe to take. You should take them for at least two months and then go back to your doc. If they seem to be working, he will probably tell you to keep taking them and give you some more. If they aren't doing their stuff, don't despair - he has loads of other spot busters in his black bag.

5. YOU ARE NOT AN ALIEN - BUT JUST BE PATIENT
Hundreds of thousands of teenagers seek help for acne. You are not alone. You are not an alien. And if people really care about you, they don't even notice your acne, however bad you think they are. But you will need to be patient. Most treatments take time to work. At least two months. And some treatments, like antibiotics will work well but may have to be taken for months, or even years.

6. THE MONTHLY CURSE... OR EXAMS
Acne does tend to get worse just before a period. It's because there is a surge in hormone levels at this time. But boys don't get away lightly either. Being hot and sweaty (particularly after sports like football) makes acne worse. And for everyone, stress - particularly at exam times - is a cue for a mega breakout. This is normal - and of course, even more reason for feeling stressed. Go chill. They'll get better - promise.

7. WATCH WHAT YOU PUT ON YOUR SKIN AND HAIR
Some beauty products are big no-nos. These include pomades and defrizzing agents for hair that tend to cause an outcrop of blackheads along the hairline and some of the heavier cosmetics. And be wary of suntan oils. Not all will make you break out, but some may. Try a friend's first before you buy. By the way, the sun might dry up acne and a tan might hide them, but your skin is still vulnerable in the sun and needs protection.

8. CARRY ON KISSING
You can't catch acne during kissing - go for it!

9. CARRY ON EATING CHOCOLATE
It's a myth that eating chocolate and fried foods causes acne. However, eating a good diet improves your general well-being and this is reflected in your skin.


-->

Common Questions asked about acne problem

There were some points I wanted to discuss;

Does wearing make up cause acne?
It is not necessary that wearing make up causes acne. Acne is caused because of hormonal imbalance mostly during puberty. But you have to take special care while you apply make up and thereafter if you have acne. Make sure you wash any make up tools, including sponges and brushes as often as possible as these become a breeding ground for bugs which can cause your spots to pop up. Stop wearing make up if you have too many spots and you can resume after you have treated them. Don't forget to clean the make up after you come home and and make sure you cleanse your face properly each night.

Do skin toner and moisturizer cure acne?
One thing that you need to know is acne is not caused by dirt, so no amount of cleaning and toning is going to get rid of them. So for treating acne you must consult your doctor and eat lots of healthy food and drink lots of water. That is the natural way to keep you face spot free.

Is it ok to do facial?
It can be a real treat to have the facial done, as they can be very relaxing and make you feel properly pampered. However, you should be aware that they should not be used to help 'treat' spots, as this can be quite dangerous if the beauty therapist is not trained. Sometimes a beauty therapist will also squeeze out any spots and blackheads that if it's not done properly, may cause a bigger problem than before.

What is the best way to cover up spots?
Foundation is okay to use and may give you more confidence if you've got a hot date, but remember to look for oil-free one. Whatever you use to put on your skin, wash your hands or sponge before applying foundation.

Skin Care Tips for Women Over 50

As a woman matures, skin care and makeup application changes but they always go hand in hand to create beauty. More focused attention to skin care is in order. "Less is more" when it comes to makeup. Makeup should be applied and colors should be chosen in a way that helps lift the face to make you look younger and more attractive. Your cosmetics should never be used as something to hide behind, rather your makeup and skin care should be used to enhance and accent the mature beauty that you have become.

Body hair in new places is something you can count on - again; it's hormones in action. You may want to start shaving some places where body hair grows, but whether you do is up to you. Some guys who grow facial hair like to let it develop into a mustache and beard. Some girls may decide to leave the hair on their legs and under their arms as is. It's all up to you and what you feel comfortable with. Brush your tongue.

Remember how stunning the ladies were in the 1950's? That style worked beautiful back then, but if you've recently been asked if you're going to sock hop, it's time to box up those old Look Magazines and run--not walk--into the 21st century. Get as many fashion magazines as you can find, and don't overlook the internet, the best free resource for ordering magazines, finding hairstyles, clothes, shoes, and an abundance of attitude for today's mature woman.

The more you keep your body hydrated the longer your skin will stay elastic and supple. Your inside will be happy as well and be less likely to hold on to water weight due to "water feminine" just like your body adjusts and slows down your metabolism for "calorie famine" when you severely cut back on eating.

Beautiful skin, a beautiful body and a beautiful sense of style does not have an end once you hit 50s. There’s very little difference between the recommended diet and exercise habits for a 20-year-old and that of a 50-year-old. In fact, the only difference is that a healthy diet and regular exercise are more important than ever. During the aging process, the key to keeping your body properly functioning and in shape is to eat healthy and stay active. At 50 and older, most adults are still capable of completing most exercises.

Place it to draw attention to your best asset. One nice ring (and I mean one, leave the extra rings at home Liberace!) or a nice bracelet will draw attention to your hands, a nice necklace will draw attention to your neck or, if it drops low, your bust, a great belt will draw attention to your waist, nice earring to your neck and face.

Don’t skip out on exercise. Who says you can’t exercise when you’re over 50? Heck, we’ve seen quite a few and they’ve outdone us at the gym! If you’ve never exercised before, talk with your doctor before beginning a program. As soon as you have an okay, try walking a few minutes a day and increase those minutes by every other day. If you have a dog, walk him or her.

Avoid applying blush to the cheekbones since this can make aging faces look overly thin. Instead, apply the blush to the apples of your cheeks and blend, blend, blend. Also, look for cream blush instead of powder. Powder tends to settle into fine lines and wrinkles, making them look extremely visible.

Pack for a fair and smooth skin

Natural Beauty Treatment
- This is just a treatment that is good.

Pack for a fair and smooth skin

Take 2 tsp lemon juice, 1 tsp glycerin and 3 tsp rose water and mix. Apply this lotion all over the body and keep it for 15-20 minutes and then wash with tepid water.

Take 1 tsp lemon juice, cup yogurt and 1 tsp orange juice. Make a paste and apply this on your face and neck and keep for 15-20 minutes and then wash with tepid water.

For dry skin this mask works wonders. Take one egg and beat it till frothy. Add 1 tsp honey. 1 tsp glycerin, 1 tsp mineral oil. Apply this on the face and other dry areas on the body and wash after 15 minutes.

Protein Pack: soak 1 tsp urad dal and 4 almonds in water overnight and then grinding them into a paste. You can then apply this protein mask to your face and wash it off after half an hour. This exceptional protein mask will not only nourish the skin but also bleach it.

Mix 2 tsp rice powder, 4 tsp tea water, 1 tsp honey. Apply this mask to your face and wash it off after half an hour with lukewarm water.

Take 1 egg and beat it in a small bowl. Add cup coconut oil and 1 tbsp honey and beat it slowly bringing its consistency like mayonnaise. Spread the mixture into a toilet paper roll, and set in the freezer overnight. To use, peel away the top of the cardboard roll and smooth the frozen stick over your face. Leave it on for 5-10 minutes, and then wash off with warm water.

Take 1 tbsp powder milk, 1 peeled cucumber and 1 tsp yogurt. Mix all these together in a blender to a fine paste and apply on the face for 15-20 minutes and wash off with warm water.

Astringents

Take 1 peeled cucumber; add 6 tsp rose water, 4 tsp Eau-de-cologne and 3 tsp glycerin. Make a paste in a blender and strain to get a lotion. Refrigerate and use on face and body.

Take lemon, orange and 3/4 cup ethanol alcohol. Blend in a mixer and strain. Refrigerate and use.

Mash strawberries, use as an astringent and cleansing facemask.

Lemon is a strong astringent, dilute with water before using, being careful to keep away from eyes.

Herbal Remedies – Anti Fungal Treatment

Garlic herb is considered to be a very potent antimicrobial agent. It was used by Albert Schweitzer to treat amebic dysentery, and also by Louis Pasteur as an antibacterial agent. Garlic is one of the richest sources of the element germanium, which is a potent inducer of interferon and effective against certain cancers by modulating the immune response.

Candida yeast infection is similar to a fungus. It generally affects the skin around the nails or the soft, moist areas around body openings. Diaper rash in babies can be from one type of candidal infection. Older girls and women may develop another form of candidal infection in and around the vagina, and these are called yeast infections.

Golden Seal herb is considered effective in treating most digestive problems ranging from peptic ulcers to colitis due to its tonic effects on the mucous membranes. It is a powerful antimicrobial improving all mucous conditions, especially those of the sinuses.

Tea tree oil preparations were tested in four randomized clinical trials and some constructive outcomes were attributed to the interference in all trials. It is a cure for many mucosal fungal infections. Tea tree oil and Grapefruit seed distill may be used for the foreign handling of candida-related rind conditions by putting 2-3 drops of each in a lotion or balm and spreading it over the stricken region. Solanum species (two trials) and oil of acrimonious orange preparations (one test) were compared with traditional treatments. In all cases encouraging results were reported. There are few controlled clinical trials of herbal antifungal medicines.

The most popular herbal remedy for the care of parrots seems to be aloe. One popular use of aloe is a topical spray to sooth the irritated skin of birds that engage in feather plucking. Dramatic results can be obtained with this protocol when used on parrots who are destroying their feathers due to an itchy condition of the skin. Even in cases of psychological plucking, the aloe spray has been known to slow down feather destruction, due to the fact that damp feathers seem to dampen the urge to pluck. The easiest way to obtain a quality aloe spray for parrots is to buy it from a health food store.

Fungal infections are usually not serious in otherwise healthy individuals. However, a systemic fungal infection may be severe and life-threatening for those with compromised immune systems. Good personal hygiene should be maintained. In the case of superficial infections, the skin should be kept clean and dry, and care should be taken to avoid contact with other parts of the body. If someone in the household has a superficial fungal infection, bed sheets, towels, floors, shower stalls, and other contact surfaces should be washed with hot water and disinfected after use.

Oregano extract from this herb is considered more potent and less harmful than nystatin to eradicate fungi. It is also considered to be more powerful and less-toxic in eradicating staph infections.

Cure for Skin Rashes and Itching

Common rashes are often called dermatitis, meaning inflammation of the skin; they involve changes in the color or texture of the skin including skin redness or inflammation. Common rashes are also known as skin lesions, Rubor and Erythema.

Skin reactions are more common today due to many new fabrics in use. Some of the body rashes affect the whole body (termed as a generalized), where as others appear on discrete areas of the skin. Skin rashes can be self limiting or require medications. Babies often develop skin rashes because of irritation from the coloring materials in these fabrics. Skin or the body rash is a common term that describes a group of special spots, an area of inflammation or altered color or texture of the skin. Skin rashes might be associated with various other symptoms such as itching, tingling, burning, pain, inflammation and sometimes, surprisingly with no discomfort at all. Belladonna remedy is useful for conditions with sudden onset that are hot, bright red, and throbbing. Rash may be accompanied by fever.

Oatmeal bath is preferred

Applying olive oil to the rash could provide some relief.

Aloe Vera gel, cod liver oil and Vitamin E oil are also helpful in combating body rash.

Using baking powder on the affected area is another suggestion to deal with body and back rash.

Aloe Vera: Widely known for treating burns and sunburns, aloe vera also helps in healing wounds and minor skin irritations such as itchiness and rashes. This plant produces anti inflammatory, anti bacterial, and anti fungal properties. It also contains folic acid, zinc, and vitamins C and E.
Chamomile Essential Oil: Has anti inflammatory (anti-microbial) properties that soothes and eliminates an itchy skin rash and irritations. Chamomile is also used in treating eczema, psoriasis, and sunburn. Please be aware, people who are normally allergic to grass and ragweed may acquire an allergic reaction to chamomile.

Witch hazel: Acts as an astringent that relieves itching and minor skin inflammation. Also used for treating sunburns. For maximum benefit, use fresh witch hazel bark. Simmer one ounce of the bark with one pint of water and leave for ten minutes. Strain and cool. Apply with a clean cloth and leave it on for about thirty minutes.

There are natural alternatives to cortisone cream treatment for rashes. For example Eczema is often treated with cortisone cream to combat the itching. There is, unfortunately, no known cure for Eczema, but natural medicines can help reduce the symptoms of Eczema without the harmful side effects associated with cortisones and other pharmaceutical medications.

There are many treatment of skin Rashes. Cortisone is often used to decrease local inflammation, swelling, burning and itching often associated with common rashes. Many natural remedy creams that provide instant and long-term relief rashes. The best home remedy for body rashes is to apply olive oil on the rash affected area. Belladonna remedy is useful for conditions with sudden onset that are hot, bright red, and throbbing. Rash may be accompanied by fever. Ledum palustre remedy is indicated for a puffy and swollen rash. Both the swelling and the itching are relieved by cold applications.

Itch relief is important, because scratching can itself irritate the skin and lead to more itching, creating an itching-scratching-itching cycle. Fingernails should be kept short to minimize abrasions from scratching. Applying eucalyptus oil on the skin can be helpful or take a cotton ball or Q-Tip and apply Tea Tree Oil full strength to area that is itching.

Natural Tips for Fair Complexion

Few very good masks to lighten the skin tone and add a glow to the complexion. continue to care your skin is always important to maintain your skin and look fresh all the time.

Mix 1 table spoon of milk powder, 1 table spoon of honey, 1 table spoon of lemon juice, and ½ table spoon of almond oil. Apply on face and wash off after 10-15 minutes. This pack helps bring shine to the skin and also removes tan.

You can do a fairness massage easily at the privacy of your home. Soak four almonds overnight. In the morning remove their skin and grind them fine. Make a paste by adding one teaspoon of gram flour, one teaspoon of milk and four drops of limejuice. A regular massage with this paste will assure a long lasting fairness to you.

For 15 days, apply a paste of gram flour (besan), milk (2 teaspoon) and lime juice(3-4 drops) on face and neck for 15 minutes and wash with water. You complexion should improve. Repeat every 2 weeks.

SANDALWOOD:

This is best home remedy for dark skin. Sandalwood is one of the most expensive, most exotic, and most aromatic plants known to humans. Sandalwood has a use in treating most skin problems. It is a cooling agent, stimulant, and blood purifier. It protects skin from the sun's rays, acts an anti-aging agent, and keeps skin smooth and aromatic. Sandalwood is extremely effective on pimples, prickly heat, skin erruptions, itching, rashes, spots, freckles, and swellings.

Mix oatmeal with yogurt and tomato juice and apply on the face. Wash it with cold water after 15 minutes.

Apply a mixture of 3-4 drops of lime juice and a grated tomato on face and neck for 15 minutes for 15 days. Wash with cold water.
Mix almond, neem leaf , turmeric, sandlewood and poppy seeds.
Blend this mixture into a fine paste using milk . Apply this paste on face and allow it to dry. remove the dried mask by massaging your face in circular motion and wash your face using luke warm water.
Wheat germ scrub:

Ingredients:

1 tablespoon oatmeal powder
1 tablespoon wheat germ (powder)
1 tablespoon skimmed milk powder
1 teaspoon sandal wood powder.

Rose:

This is a popular herb for dark skin. Rose oil is a cooling agent and is excellent for tired skin. It is a good source of vitamins C and E. Rose oil has a very pleasant fragrance to it. It removes dead cells from the skin, and provides relief from burns. It slows the aging process and balances the skin's chemistry. Rose oil is used for cleansing, toning, moisturizing, and nourishing of the skin.
Mash the cucmber with the skin still on to get the juice. You may then need to squeeze the juice out with your hands. You can use lime juice with haldi and besan, and scrub your face with this to try and remove the tan. However. simply applying lime juice and cucumber will help lighten skin over time.

Fair look, dry skin:

Apply a mixture of equal amounts of cucumber juice and honey on the face and whole body. Leave it for 15 minutes and wash off.

Fair look, oily skin:

Apply a mixture of equal amounts of lemon and cucumber juice on the face and whole body. Leave it for 15 minutes and wash off.

Natural Beauty Treatment

They say, " Beauty lies in the eyes of the beholder" but one has to work towards looking beautiful and staying beautiful forever. In this article we have compiled a few beauty packs and tips that will help you have a smooth and glowing skin and look beautiful and youthful forever.

Pack for a fair and smooth skin

Take 2 tsp lemon juice, 1 tsp glycerin and 3 tsp rose water and mix. Apply this lotion all over the body and keep it for 15-20 minutes and then wash with tepid water.

Take 1 tsp lemon juice, cup yogurt and 1 tsp orange juice. Make a paste and apply this on your face and neck and keep for 15-20 minutes and then wash with tepid water.

For dry skin this mask works wonders. Take one egg and beat it till frothy. Add 1 tsp honey. 1 tsp glycerin, 1 tsp mineral oil. Apply this on the face and other dry areas on the body and wash after 15 minutes.

Protein Pack: soak 1 tsp urad dal and 4 almonds in water overnight and then grinding them into a paste. You can then apply this protein mask to your face and wash it off after half an hour. This exceptional protein mask will not only nourish the skin but also bleach it.

Mix 2 tsp rice powder, 4 tsp tea water, 1 tsp honey. Apply this mask to your face and wash it off after half an hour with lukewarm water.

Take 1 egg and beat it in a small bowl. Add cup coconut oil and 1 tbsp honey and beat it slowly bringing its consistency like mayonnaise. Spread the mixture into a toilet paper roll, and set in the freezer overnight. To use, peel away the top of the cardboard roll and smooth the frozen stick over your face. Leave it on for 5-10 minutes, and then wash off with warm water.

Take 1 tbsp powder milk, 1 peeled cucumber and 1 tsp yogurt. Mix all these together in a blender to a fine paste and apply on the face for 15-20 minutes and wash off with warm water.

Astringents

Take 1 peeled cucumber; add 6 tsp rose water, 4 tsp Eau-de-cologne and 3 tsp glycerin. Make a paste in a blender and strain to get a lotion. Refrigerate and use on face and body.

Take lemon, orange and 3/4 cup ethanol alcohol. Blend in a mixer and strain. Refrigerate and use.

Mash strawberries, use as an astringent and cleansing facemask.



Lemon is a strong astringent, dilute with water before using, being careful to keep away from eyes.