Handmade Soap Facts

Handmade Soap Facts
By Yvonne Takhtalian

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.

Yvonne Takhtalian, C.N.H.P, H.I. spent the past 10 years developing and improving Vita-Myr Natural Products helping thousands like you heal gum disease and gingivitis. She just released a new line of 100% Natural Vita-Myr Soaps to compliment her Vita-Myr Mouthwash & Toothpaste. Find out more about effective natural relief of gum disease at http://www.vitamyr.com/ or email questions/comments to Yvonne at mailto:vitamyr@mindspring.com Copyright � 2004 Vita-Myr� International Inc All rights reserved. Natural Products For Healthy Living �

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/expert/Yvonne_Takhtalian/111999
http://EzineArticles.com/?Handmade-Soap-Facts&id=1041

7 Steps to Great Makeup

7 Steps to Great Makeup
By Sheila Dicks

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!!!

Sheila Dicks is a wardrobe and image consultant who teaches women how to look slimmer by dressing to suit their body type. Visit her at http://www.sheilasfashionsense.com to download a copy of her e-book Image Makeovers and get How to Build a Wardrobe free.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/expert/Sheila_Dicks/188
http://EzineArticles.com/?7-Steps-to-Great-Makeup&id=1838

Should I Have A Face Lift?

Should I Have A Face Lift?
By Wendy Owen

Good question! A face lift is major surgery and surgery means blood, mess, discomfort, stitches and time out to recover. A face lift is expensive too.

There are risks to consider, one is hematoma when the blood collects under the skin and has to be surgically removed. Damage to the nerves that control your facial muscles is another although this is less common. Slow healing time can also be a problem although this is found mainly in smokers. Oh! and don't forget the usual risks that are involved with anesthesia.

On the plus side, the effects of a face lift are quite dramatic. It is without a doubt the fastest and most permanent way of shedding your 'old' face and regaining some of that youthful beauty you were born with..

If you've considered these things and decided that the final outcome is worth it, then proceed, but first please ask yourself these questions.

Why do I want a facelift?

Am I doing this because its going to help me find the job that I really want? This is a valid reason for going ahead. It shouldn't matter to those that hire people how old the applicant is or what they look like, but in the real world we know that these things do play a part. If you have a job that has a lot of public exposure, this may also be a good reason to proceed.

Am I doing this because my partner wants me to?
Red alert! Never let anyone else talk you into having a facelift. It is a very personal decision and one only you should make. Ask yourself why are you with someone who values you only for your appearance. Honor yourself, you are more than your face! Perhaps you should be working on your relationship and leaving your face alone!

I'm thirty five and have lots of wrinkles around my eyes and cheeks, and my neck is all mottled

A face lift won't help this situation. You are better off exploring the avenue of laser resurfacing or even chemical peels, they will strip the old layer of skin off and reveal a smoother younger appearance. It sounds like you have a lot of sun damage, get educated on the use of sunblock! Its everybody's most important cosmetic.

I'm depressed and don't feel good about myself. Maybe a facelift will help me feel better?

It may for a little while, but it sounds like you have a self esteem problem. Learn to love yourself the way you are first. Then if you still feel a facelift would give your morale a boost, go ahead.

I'm in my early fifties and notice my face is starting to sag quite badly. I can afford the surgery and reckon I might just do this for myself. A good idea, you've thought it through and decided its something you want not something you need.

Find a professional surgeon in your area and follow all his/her advice on how to prepare for your face lift. Don't forget to mention any medication you are taking and if you are a smoker, stop two weeks before surgery is scheduled. It will speed your recovery time. Good luck!

Wendy Owen has had a lifetime interest in skin care, skin health and general health. She is in her fifties and still has a great skin. Advice on natural skin care may be found at [http://www.just-natural-skincare.com]

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/expert/Wendy_Owen/387
http://EzineArticles.com/?Should-I-Have-A-Face-Lift?&id=4915

Shaving - How To Make It Easy

Shaving - How To Make It Easy
By Mike Jones

Shaving is a unique experience. Why? Because each individual is different when it comes to:

• skin sensitivity
• rate of hair growth
• texture of hair

So shaving tools and accessories that work for one may not work as well for another. Hence the need for experimentation and practice to get the ideal shaving results.

The list of tips below will aid in the shaving experiment and development process until you find the best methods for optimum results:

• Avoid shaving when first getting up after sleep as body fluids make the skin puffy making it more difficult to shave the hair. After 20 or 30 minutes the skin becomes more taut so the hair shaft is more exposed making it easier.
• Don't stay in the bath too long before shaving. The skin will shrivel after eight minutes or so making it difficult to get a smooth, close shave.
• Use preshave products such as soaps, lathers, creams and gels. They lock moisture into the hair, they help keep the hair erect and they reduce friction allowing the blade to glide easily over the skin.
• Alternatively, use a shaving oil which helps you get a close shave and gives some protection to the skin as the blade glides over the surface. Often you do not need to use any other shaving accessory once you find a shaving oil that suits you.
• Hair conditioner can also be used to soften hair.
• The more repeat strokes over an area of skin the greater risk of irritation.
• To remove stray hairs which are not removed after one or two passes with the razor, use a pop-up trimmer.
• Never share your razor or shaver with anyone else to avoid skin infections.
• Running the fingertips over the shaved area is a very effective method of ensuring a close thorough shave. The sense of touch will alert you to stubble and missed patches it may be difficult to see in the mirror.
• Always wet the hair first for at least 3 minutes. Hair absorbs water which makes it stand up making it easier when shaving.
• Wet hair also reduces wear on the blade. Shaving after taking a shower is an ideal time.
• For a close shave with minimal irritation, try and use an angle of approximately 30 degrees between the blade and the skin.
• To lessen the risk of razor burn and extend the life of the blade, allow shaving cream to sit on the skin for 4 minutes before shaving.
• Thick shaving cream or foam offers the best protection against irritation and cuts.
• Use a sharp new blade. If you need to use pressure on the blade it is time to change it. Using a blunt blade can increase the danger of ingrown hair.
• Splash the skin with cold water after shaving to help stop any bleeding from small nicks and also remove any traces of soap or lather.
• When shaving the leg area use long strokes going against the grain avoiding repeat strokes. Great care needs to be exercised especially around bony areas such as the ankle or knee.
• Hair under the arm grows in all directions so a side to side stroke as well as up and down strokes may be necessary to catch all the hairs.
• Do not apply deodorants or anti-perspirants right after shaving as this can cause acute irritation and soreness.
• For the bikini line, shave in the direction of the hair and avoid repeating the strokes to minimize irritation in this very sensitive area.

In conclusion: Shaving is one of the most common methods of hair removal the world over. It is inexpensive, quick, and conveniently done at home. The negative factors are that it needs to be done frequently and the skin can suffer unless precautions are taken.

Using the guidelines above will minimize the irritation and help you get a close shave that keeps unwanted body hair at bay!

Note: Hair inhibitors can slow down hair growth, even when shaving. Click here for details:

http://www.1bodycare.com/159490-kalo

For the very latest in shaving accessories click here:

http://www.about-hair-removal.com/RD/shaving-supplies.html

Is ingrown hair a problem when shaving? Click here:

http://www.1bodycare.com/iht.htm

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/expert/Mike_Jones/617
http://EzineArticles.com/?Shaving---How-To-Make-It-Easy&id=90

No Flab With That Blouse is So Necessary

No Flab With That Blouse is So Necessary
By Cathy Gatson

With Spring in the air and Summer just around the corner…it will soon be time to "change clothes and go"…sleeveless. If you've been shopping lately, you may have noticed many of the blouses, tops and dresses for Spring/Summer are haltered, strapless, or sleeveless, exposing lots of skin. The styles are sexy but flabby arms are not. If the backs of your arms are waving in the wind, then here are the most recommended and easiest exercises that I've found to improve muscle tone to your arms, shoulders and chest just in time for Spring.

The muscles you want to target are:
Biceps - located at the top of your upper arm. Clench your fist and make a muscle, the bump that should appear is your bicep.
Triceps - located at the back and below your upper arm.
Pectoralis Major & Minor - chest muscles

Push ups are a tried and true exercise which work the triceps, chest, and shoulders. You may modify the traditional push up by both knees on the floor rather than straightening them behind you. Place your hands on the floor in front of you, shoulder width apart and push your upper body away. Go at a pace that works for you but be consistent. Gradually increasing your reps. No need to go the gym for this exercise. You can drop and do 20 right before you climb into bed.
Kim King, head strength and conditioning coach for Olympic Sports at the University of Pittsburgh, suggests the following exercises:
Dumbbell triceps curl
· Stand erect with back straight and feet shoulder width apart.
· Hold dumbbell (if weights are not available substitute weights with 32 oz. waterbottles) in right hand and raise overhead with arm extended.
· Keep upper arm close to head and perpendicular to the floor.
· Slowly lower dumbbell behind head until forearm touches (nears) bicep.
· Raise dumbbell to starting position and repeat movement.
· Inhale when lowering dumbbell, exhale when raising (extending) arm upward.
· Repeat with opposite arm. This exercise can also be done while seated.
Dumbbell triceps extension
· Stand holding dumbbell in your right hand with palm facing in.
· Bend forward until your back is nearly parallel to the floor.
· Position left hand on left knee.
· Position upper right arm against side (parallel to ground) with lower arm vertical to ground.
· Press dumbbell back until arm parallel to floor.
· Pause for a moment, then lower dumbbell slowly to starting position, then repeat.
· Inhale when raising dumbbell, exhale when lowering. Repeat with opposite arm.
Hammer bicep curl
· Stand erect with feet shoulder-width apart.
· Hold a light dumbbell in each hand with arms extended down and palms facing inward.
· Keep upper arms tight against ribs and perpendicular to the floor.
· Raise one dumbbell at a time by flexing the arm at the elbow.
· Curl movement should bring dumbbell in line with the shoulder.
· Lower dumbbell slowly until elbow is fully extended.
· Repeat with opposite arm.
· Exhale during upward movement; inhale during downward phase.

According to the fitness manager at 24 Hour Fitness at Hilltop, Izaac Tyrell, the most effective way to reduce weight is "by eating a balanced diet (consisting of carbs, protein and a little fat), doing cardio-vascular exercises in combination with weight training".
Izaak reiterated what I've read in countless health magazines which is there is no "spot reduction" way to reduce fat in other words, there is no quick fix to flab-less arms!

If done correctly, the exercises mentioned, will yield noticeable results but only if incorporated with cardio exercises and a low fat, nutritious diet. Start now and by summer you should be able to brush your shoulders off and wave flabby arms goodbye!
Resources: For more information on weight loss, and exercise, The Ultimate Weight Loss Revealed by Brad Callen e-book has great fat burning tips and cardio exercise programs (www.free-weight-loss-resources.com [http://www.free-weight-loss-resources.com]). Another great resource for nutrition and exercise tips is www.ivillage.com. Winsor Pilates video available at Target for $29.95 an awesome program designed to tone and sculpt your entire body and help you lose weight. Tamilee Webb's, "I Want Those Arms" a good video for beginners to intermediate excercisers. available on VHS for $14.95 www.collagevideo.com

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

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/expert/Cathy_Gatson/5818
http://EzineArticles.com/?No-Flab-With-That-Blouse-is-So-Necessary&id=1670