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8 Ways to Pamper Yourself for the Perfect Valentine’s Date
Valentine’s day is just around the corner and the smell of roses and chocolates is unmistakable! This day’s a celebration of love and a date with your partner, friends, or family is the perfect way to spend it. Many are sure to be busy preparing for the perfect date - booking good spots at restaurants and buying Valentine's gifts. It might be a busy and stressful week for you. However, make sure that you’re still taking care of your skin so you can look your best for your loved ones. Looking tired and dull can ruin the perfect Valentine’s date. That’s why you need a pampering session to keep signs of aging away. Fine lines and wrinkles are not pretty accessories to wear for your date. No worries! You don’t have to spend much just to achieve glowing skin and shiny hair. This beauty routine is the perfect way to relax and get ready for your Valentine’s date. Here are 8 ways to pamper yourself so you can look your best! Soak in Scented Bath Planning dates and get-togethers can get very tiring. A good soak can help you relax so you feel energetic the next day. It helps keep your skin clear too! Stress and anxiety can be huge triggers of acne. They can stimulate hormones responsible for oil production, which leaves your skin prone to acne. A relaxing bath may not sound much, but it does wonders for your skin! Experience the luxury of a spa at your own home. You can easily recreate the relaxing atmosphere using scented candles. Draw a warm bath and mix some essential oils. Lavender oil and rose essential oil are great choices because of their soothing scent. They have benefits for your skin too. Cleanse Your Skin for A Fresh Complexion Cleanse your skin using a gentle wash. This helps remove excess oil and dirt so you can have a brighter and fresher complexion. Skin can have a dull complexion if not cleansed efficiently. It is easier to apply makeup on fresh skin too. However make sure that you don’t use harsh cleansers especially if you have dry skin. Harsh cleansers can strip moisture away from skin. This leaves your skin feeling rough and dry. Even if you have oily skin, avoid using drying cleansers. This can only cause excessive oil production. When your skin lacks moisture, it compensates by producing more oil. This leaves skin feeling oily. Excess oil can clog pores and cause acne as well. You don’t want to pop zits before your date, do you? Scrub the Dullness Away Washing your skin not be enough to achieve the glow that you want. That’s why you should find a gentle body scrub that can remove dead skin cells from the top of your skin. This can make your skin look radiant. A good scrub helps promote skin cell renewal as well. It leaves your skin looking fresh and youthful. Dead skin cells form a layer on top of your skin, making it look dull. Using scrubs can lift away dead skin cells and other stubborn impurities. Plus, your skin texture feels softer and smoother! Look for scrubs that contain moisture-rich ingredients to prevent damage and dryness. Soothe Skin with Face Masks Do you want your skin to feel really soft and supple? Use a sheet mask after you wash your face. It helps restore moisture to skin for a softer and smoother feel. Face masks improve the appearance of skin too. It soothes inflammation, which reduces the appearance of puffy eyes, fine lines, and wrinkles. You can include even include face masks in your skin care routine to improve the texture and firmness of skin. There are face masks that come in the form of clay, mud, and cream too. These face masks may help alleviate symptoms of skin conditions such as acne. They may contain soothing ingredients that can keep your skin bright and clear. Look Younger with Anti-Aging Serum Serums are truly magical skin care products. They absorb into skin fast, which gives you noticeable results. Shiny Leaf Face Serums are chock full of nourishing ingredients that help improve how skin feels and looks. They prevent signs of skin aging from forming too. Vitamin C serum and hyaluronic acid serum are great choices you should try using. Vitamin C serum has powerful antioxidant properties, which fight against free radicals. Using the serum keeps skin free of blemishes and wrinkles too. Hyaluronic acid serum, on the other hand, helps your skin stay supple. It hydrates the deeper layers of your skin, making it feel suppler and smoother. Hyaluronic acid serum works for all skin types. You can look years younger when you use this serum! Glow with Hydrated Skin Moisturizer is one of the most essential beauty products for your Valentines skin care routine. You can never use too much moisturizer. It helps your skin stay firm and supple. Moisturizers help prevent skin aging and damage. Your skin has a natural barrier that prevents damage. This barrier gets weaker as your skin becomes drier. Using moisturizer helps fortify the barrier to fully protect skin. Most moisturizers today contain nourishing ingredients that help improve skin tone and texture too. If you have puffy eyes or dark bags under the eyes, you can use creams. Eye cream contains active ingredients that help make your skin firmer. This reduces the puffy appearance of eyes. Creams have thicker texture so be cautious when you are using it, especially if you have oily skin. Go for Bold-Colored Nails It’s always a good idea to paint your nails on special occasions. It gives you character without making you look over accessorized. During Valentine’s, you want to look confident, but classy. Wearing diamond necklace and earring might sound like a good idea. Wanna know what’s a better idea? Red-painted nails! Red is the color of Valentine’s day. And it is a very attractive color that can make you feel more confident. Keep Hair and Scalp Smelling Fresh It’s not only your skin you should take care of. A glowing skin pairs perfectly well with shiny hair. These two are killer combinations that can make you look like you’re ready to walk on the red carpet. For your Valentine’s preparation, pay attention to your hair and scalp too. Keep them smelling fresh and fab with moisture-rich hair products. You can wash your hair the night before your date. The next day, all you have to do is apply conditioner. This helps prevent frizziness so your hair stays smooth and manageable all day long. You can apply light oils the night before too. They soften hair and make it shinier. Using nourishing hair products that can give you your dream hair. Make Valentine’s day your own and feel confident in your natural beauty. You don’t need diamonds when you look good and feel good about yourself. Valentine’s day is the day to celebrate all kinds of love - whether it’s with your partner, friends, family, or yourself.
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Up Your Defenses from Pollution with These Skin Care Tips
Ah, the city! Full of energy and people hustling and bustling through the streets. You are most likely one of those energetic people breathing in the city air. But beware, city air is actually harmful to your skin. Smog and soot from car emissions and smoke from factories are pollutants that make up the city air. These emissions are harmful to the environment as they contribute to ozone layer thinning. As the ozone layer thins, Earth’s protection depletes allowing harmful UV rays penetrate into the atmosphere. The planet isn’t the only one suffering from the effects of pollution. Pollution is known to cause unpleasant long term effects on skin and health. Free radicals in pollution make your skin look aged and damaged. Read on to find out how pollution affects your complexion and skin care tips to fight free radical damage. How Pollution Affects Your Skin Pollution contains thousands of micro-particles that are a lot tinier than your pores. They can enter your body as you breathe in, through your mouth, and through your pores of course. These particles affect your skin negatively and form free radicals. Free radicals are unstable particles known to cause premature aging. Pollution affects your skin’s protective barrier. It breaks down your skin’s basic building block called collagen. Particles from pollution are known to speed up the process of aging through oxidative stress. You gain fine lines and wrinkles due to pollutants affecting collagen production on your skin. Pollution strips skin of natural moisturizing oils as well. This makes your skin dry and dull. These are just some of the many ways pollution affects your skin. Combine pollution with all-time high stressors of living in the city and awful skin care habits, and you have a recipe for bad skin. Keep exposing your skin to pollution and you can expect acne, rosacea, skin dryness, and uneven complexion. All the better reason to shield your skin from pollution! Skin Care Tips to Fight Pollution The keys to protecting your skin from pollution lie in three main things. These methods include cleansing, using antioxidant-rich products, and rebalancing your skin’s natural barrier. Here are tips on how to protect your skin from the dirt and grime caused by pollution. Do the Double Cleanse Method Your face attracts dirt, pollution, and grime from the air. Deep cleansing your pores is essential to remove all traces of dirt from your skin and makeup. Not removing your makeup at the end of the day is another way you increase your risk of getting acne and other skin issues. Regularly cleanse your face at the end of the day before going to sleep. Use a separate cleanser to remove your makeup, such as micellar water or an oil cleanser. Doing this removes dirt, makeup, and excess oils from the surface of your skin. Follow up with a gentle foaming cleanser that fits your skin type. Cleansing the second time removes any impurities trapped in your pores. Toner is Your Friend Your skin has a natural acidic barrier that prevents bacteria and other contaminants from penetrating through. Pollutants disrupt this protective layer causing damage to your skin cells and clogging pores in the process. Toners help remove traces of residue on your skin after cleansing. This product balances out pH levels and restores natural acidic barrier of your skin. They help tighten pores, preventing impurities from absorbing into your complexion. Look for products with an alcohol-free formula to prevent drying out your skin. Exfoliate Your Skin The skin naturally sheds dead skin cells to make way for new skin to surface. But when pollution is added into the equation, your skin has a harder time removing these dead cells. Dead skin cells build up and affect your skin’s natural renewal process. One of the best things you can do to get rid of these the buildup is to exfoliate. Exfoliate your skin once or twice a week using gentle exfoliators. Doing this benefits your complexion in so many ways. Exfoliating unclogs your pores and removes dead skin cells on the surface. It also prevents pollutants, dirt, and bacteria from building up on your skin. Look for liquid exfoliating products instead of physical exfoliators. You don’t want an abrasive product that damages healthy skin cells. Glycolic and lactic acids are some examples you should use. Fight Free Radicals with Antioxidant-rich Products Smoke, dust, and smog in the air contribute to free radical damage. These unstable molecules react and disrupt your healthy skin cells. These molecules break down your skin’s collagen fibers, resulting in fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging. Sometimes they appear as brown spots too. Antioxidants neutralize free radical particles that come in contact with your skin. They help prevent and reverse the damage done to your skin. These compounds also help speed up cell turnover and protect your skin from stressors. Some examples of antioxidant ingredients include vitamin E, green tea, or ferulic acid. Shiny Leaf Vitamin C Serum is a product that contains skin caring vitamins C, E, and A as well as hyaluronic acid. This serum helps replenish lost moisture to reveal a youthful and radiant glow. It helps make your skin look more even too. Apply an antioxidant-rich serum twice in a day for extra protection. In the morning, apply the serum after cleansing. Follow up with a moisturizer and sunscreen with an SPF of at least 50. At the end of the day before going to bed, apply the serum after using toner on your skin. Apply a moisturizer or face oil afterward. Don’t Forget to Moisturize Your skin dries out easily when exposed to polluted air. Moisturizers create a protective barrier on your skin. This product helps regulate oil production and seal in moisture. It hydrates and protects your skin from dryness. Look for a moisturizer that’s rich in antioxidants to lessen the effects of free radical particles. Some examples of natural ingredients include green tea and blueberry extracts. Never Skip on Sunscreen Harmful UVB and UVA rays may cause fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots to appear on your skin. Wearing sunscreen everyday shields your skin from the sun’s rays and pollutants in the air. It keeps free radical damage at bay. Look for products with mineral-based ingredients since they don’t clog your pores. These ingredients are gentler, which makes them ideal for sensitive skin. Use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 50. Apply sunscreen on exposed areas of your body, such as your face, neck, and arms. Re-apply throughout the day. Taking care of your skin ensures that you have protection from damaging pollution and benefits you in the long run. Follow these tips and be mindful of ways to protect your skin from harmful free radical damage.
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Get Idol-Worthy Hair with Korean Scalp Care Routine
The Korean 10-step skin care method has taken over the West. Many have tried this method and have attested to its effects of healthier and suppler skin. But did you know there’s a 10-step method for your hair too? The secret to healthy hair lies in your scalp. That’s the main focus of the Korean hair care routine. This method consists of removing dead skin cells and layering hydrating products. Read on more on how to get luscious tresses like your favorite K-Pop idol. What the Korean Scalp Care Routine Does for Your Hair Want to take your hair care game up a notch? Try the method Koreans use for their hair. The Korean hair care method uses an approach that’s similar to treating your complexion. This approach focuses mainly on keeping pH levels balanced when cleansing your skin and hair. To do this you’ll need products formulated for your scalp such as exfoliators, serums, and masks. What is pH and Why is it Important? pH, or potential hydrogen, is a measure used to find out if liquids are acidic or basic. This measure ranges from 1-14 with 1 being highly acidic while 14 indicating the product as alkaline or basic. Liquids with a pH level of 7 are known as neutral. Both human skin and scalp are fairly acidic. They fall within the 4.5-5.5 range. Your skin has an acid barrier that helps prevent bacterial and fungal growth. It is essential to maintain your scalp’s natural pH level by using the right products. A compound that’s too alkaline, or too acidic, opens or closes your cuticles respectively. Your hair fibers are prone to damage if your pH levels are unbalanced. The Benefits and Importance of Scalp Care Your scalp and skin are composed of the same proteins and fats. They both have oil glands that produce an oily substance called sebum. Sebum spreads through your strands and keeps them shiny and moisturized. When your scalp is unhealthy, you experience dry or greasy hair. You may experience hair issues such as hair loss or dandruff. Taking care of your scalp the same way you would care for your skin keeps hair healthy. Doing this also promotes hair growth and strength. Regularly cleansing your scalp prevents clogged follicles and buildup. Applying products that protect your scalp helps prevent hair damage from external stressors, such as UV rays and chemicals. Scalp Types and Conditions You Need to Know Your sebaceous glands help determine what type of scalp you have. These glands produce an oily substance, called sebum. Knowing which type of scalp you have helps you choose the right products with the best ingredients. Dry Scalp Dry scalp usually means you have small oil glands. The sebum from these oil glands isn’t able to coat your tresses with the moisture it needs. Your hair is prone to breakage and dryness for the lack of moisture. Chances are your scalp has a high pH level or too alkaline. Look for products with ingredients that have pH levels that range from 6-7. Use a product that contains acidic ingredients, such as apple cider vinegar and citrus extracts. Oily Scalp If you have oily skin, chances are you naturally have greasy hair. Your scalp has large pores that produce too much sebum, which leads to limp hair. Excess oils mean your scalp’s pH is level is low or acidic. Some factors, such as hormonal changes and diet, are the causes of an oily scalp. Choose products with a regular pH level of 7. These hair products help rebalance your scalp and hair’s pH level. Water-based plant extracts are ideal ingredients to look for to counteract the oiliness. Normal Scalp Your hair is easy to manage if you have a normal scalp. Your natural oils are balanced, which means you have soft and shiny locks. Keeping your hair’s state is important even if you don’t have any issues. Choose gentle products to maintain the pH level of your scalp. Combination Scalp You most likely have a mix of an oily scalp, frizzy strands, and dry ends if you have combination hair. Sebum from your oil glands doesn’t spread through your strands effectively. Your scalp traps the oil and creates a greasy appearance while you have dull strands. People with curly, frizzy, or long hair usually have combination hair. For curly hair, choose products that are slightly acidic since your cuticles are already a bit open. The 10-Step Korean Scalp Care Routine You have heard of the glass skin trend, but have you heard of glass hair? The focus of the Korean scalp care routine is all about cleansing, hydrating and rebalancing pH levels. Here are the steps to follow to get shiny and manageable hair. Step 1: Do a Scalp Treatment A healthy scalp promotes the growth of soft, smooth, and shiny hair. When dirt, oil, pollutants, and dead skin cells form on your scalp, they make hair look dull and lifeless. Cleansing with a scalp treatment removes these impurities and residue. This step prevents clogged follicles and other scalp issues. Look for a product with a gentle formula. Apply a scalp treatment once a week before shampooing your tresses. Do not apply treatment every day to avoid irritating your scalp. Step 2: Lather on Shampoo After cleansing with a scalp treatment, follow up with shampoo. Choose a shampoo that contains natural ingredients. Avoid harsh chemical-based ingredients that strip off your natural oils. You want a product that hydrates your hair while keeping your scalp clean. Shiny Leaf Castor Oil Shampoo is an excellent product that works for different scalp types. It’s packed with healthy fatty acids that keep hair and scalp clean as it hydrates. This shampoo removes dirt and excess oils without stripping your hair off its natural oils. Lather on a quarter-sized amount of shampoo. Massage gently and leave on for a few minutes before rinsing. Step 3: Massage Your Scalp Massaging your scalp offers benefits for your hair. It helps stimulate follicles, which improves blood circulation on your scalp. Doing this encourages hair growth and thickness. You can use a scalp brush or your fingers. Massage your scalp in gentle, circular motions with your fingers or brush massager. Do this for 5 to 10 minutes while shampooing your hair. Step 4: Apply Conditioner Conditioning your hair is an important step after cleansing your tresses. Applying conditioner helps restore moisture to your strands. Look for a conditioning product that has natural ingredients, such as plant extracts. Take a dollop-sized amount of conditioner and apply two-thirds up from the ends of your hair. Use more if your hair feels dry and damaged. Let conditioner sit for a few minutes and then rinse thoroughly. Step 5: Do Weekly Hair Mask Treatment Deep conditioning masks nourish and add strength to your tresses. They contain active ingredients that help strengthen and repair damaged hair. Use a hydrating hair mask if you have coarse and dry strands. For fine and oily hair, look for masks that have strengthening and lightweight ingredients. Apply a hair mask once or twice a week on damp hair as a substitute for conditioner. Leave the mask on for 15 or 30 minutes before rinsing. Step 6: Rinse Your Hair with Vinegar Apple cider vinegar has a lot of beneficial nutrients. It has antimicrobial properties that provide relief for inflamed areas in your scalp. It also helps restore your scalp’s pH levels, resulting in less frizzy and dull hair. Apple cider vinegar is ideal for different hair types as it counteracts dryness and prevents excess oil production. Mix one part apple cider vinegar and water. Rinse your scalp with the mixture after shampooing and conditioning your tresses. Massage the solution on your scalp for two minutes. Use cold water to rinse out the vinegar afterward. Do this process once or twice a week. Step 7: Apply Scalp Serum Scalp serums contain a high concentration of ingredients that care for your scalp. This hair care product repairs and moisturizes your scalp by penetrating through your follicles. They prevent dryness and excess oiliness on your scalp. Use a light and oil-free serum if you have a greasy scalp. Use a serum with a dense consistency and hydrating properties if you have dry scalp. Apply a quarter-sized amount of serum on your scalp after you shower. Gently massage the product into your scalp to let the nutrients absorb. Step 8: Apply Hair Serum Hair serums tame flyaways and add shine to your tresses. Some hair serums protect your hair from heat while you use styling tools. Water-based serums are ideal for oily hair. Serums packed with oils work for coarse and dry hair. After applying a scalp serum, place a few drops of serum on the palm of your hands. Apply serum on your hair. No need to rinse serum. Step 9: Apply Hair Mist or Hair Oil You want to prevent your hair from losing shine and moisture. Hair mists and oils create a protective layer on your hair to seal in water. Spray on some water-based hair mist if you have oily hair. Apply a few drops of hair oil if you have dry strands. Step 10: Do an Overnight Treatment Overnight treatments help strengthen and hydrate your strands overnight while you sleep. They target frizzy and damaged hair. These treatments nourish your hair while you sleep, leaving you with smooth, soft, and shiny tresses. Apply an overnight treatment on your hair before going to bed. Wear a shower cap or wrap your head in cling film to prevent any messy stains on your pillows and sheets. The key to a great hair care routine is balancing out oils and restoring moisture to your scalp. Doing this Korean 10-step scalp care routine seems intimidating at first but it will benefit your hair in the long run. Make sure to choose the right products suitable for your scalp and hair type to avoid hair issues from occurring.
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Hair-Saving Tips that Can Restore Life to Oily Tresses
Compared to dry and frizzy hair, having oily hair might be a bit more unbearable. This is not to say that frizziness is not a serious issue. It’s a frustrating hair concern many women share. However, there is a quick fix for frizzy hair – serums and moisturizing oils. On the other hand, you might need more than a handy product to solve the excessive oiliness of your hair. Oily hair lacks shine and volume, making it look lifeless. This is probably the complete opposite of your dream hair. When you have oily hair, you deal with lack of volume, dullness, and gummy hair texture. Your hair doesn’t bounce like healthy hair does. It also doesn’t shine even when it is weighed down with heavy oil. Shampooing feels like the best solution to this problem. But don’t rush to the bathroom just yet! Shampooing excessively or using harsh formulas can actually make your hair more oily. Yes, the fresh and clean feeling after you wash your hair is glorious. However, you might be doing more damage instead of solving your problem. Luckily, we have some tips that can help prevent excessive oiliness of hair to restore its volume and shine! Why Do You Have Oily Hair? Your scalp produces natural oil called sebum, which helps moisturize your hair. The oil coats hair strands to keep them moisturized all day long. If you have straight hair, it is easier for the oil to reach the entire length of hair strands. This makes your hair shinier and smoother. This is also why curly and wavy hair are more prone to dryness. The curves of hair strands make it hard for the oil to reach the entire length. The oil is only able to reach the part of hair strands close to the scalp. In some instances, your scalp doesn’t produce enough oil to moisturize hair. You can use carrier oils and leave-in conditioners to solve this issue. However, what do you do if your scalp produces too much? Find out how it happens and the best solutions you can do to prevent hair from becoming excessively oily. What Makes Hair Oily Sebum helps make your hair shinier, softer, and smoother. However, too much sebum can weigh heavily on strands, leaving your hair dull, limp, and sticky. Before you shampoo your hair, learn why your hair becomes oily to understand how you can fix it. Various factors can make your hair extremely oily. A common reason might be because you are not using the right products for your hair. Shampoos and conditioners affect how your hair feels and looks. If you use the wrong product, it can cause hair damage or in this case, make your hair oily. Products can leave residue on your hair too. Residue might weigh heavily on strands, making your hair fall limp. Here are some signs that you are not using the right product: Your hair feels gummy or rubbery even after shampooing hair. Your hair feels extra slick and oily when you rinse off conditioner from hair. You have flat roots. Your hair looks limp and dull after it gets dry. Your hair loses volume when you use conditioner. Oily hair happens when your scalp produces too much sebum too. Excessive oil production can be triggered by various factors such as habits, lifestyle, climate, and hormonal changes. Most of these causes are unavoidable. However, you don’t have to lose hope. You can still fix oily hair to make it softer and smoother again. Here are signs that your scalp is producing oil excessively: Your hair and scalp might smell like natural body odor. Your scalp can get flaky due to fungus present on scalp, which feeds on oil. It speeds up skin cell renewal and leaves layers of dead skin cells on scalp. Your scalp feels itchy or irritated. Bumps or pimples might appear on scalp. These happen when oil clogs hair follicles. 6 Common Habits That Makes Hair Oily If you have oily hair, you should learn about the common habits that can make it worse. Yes, you might have habits that make your hair oily. Below are some of these common habits and how they cause oily hair. 1. Touching Your Hair Often When you touch your hair often, you transfer oil from your hands to hair. Running your hands through your hair also distributes the oil from scalp to the rest of the strands. This leaves the entire length of your tresses oilier. 2. Shampooing Your Hair Too Much Your scalp works the same way as your skin when it comes to oil production. When they are dry, skin and scalp produce more oil to compensate for the lack of moisture. Shampooing too much removes necessary moisture from hair and scalp, which triggers excessive oil production. This leaves your hair and scalp oilier than before. 3. Applying Too Much Hair Product Not all hair products you apply on hair are absorbed by strands. Most of these products do not absorb to the deeper layers of hair, leaving a film of oil and product residue on the surface. This makes hair oilier and heavier. Product residue can also affect oil production. They may build up on scalp and clog hair follicles, triggering excessive oil production. 4. Using Hot Water When Washing Hair Hot water is not only drying for hair. It can cause excessive oil production. The temperature stimulates sebaceous glands, making them produce more oil. 5. Tying Your Hair Often When you tie your hair, the natural oil from scalp can’t travel from the roots towards the rest of the hair strands. This causes oil buildup on a certain area of scalp, leaving your hair with uneven oiliness. 6. Using Heat Styling Tools Too Much The heat from styling tools such as hair dryer and straightening irons stimulate excessive oil production too. This leaves your hair oilier. Heat removes necessary moisture from hair as well, which further aggravates oil production. Best Products for Oily Hair It’s challenging to manage an oily hair type. However, there are tips and products that can help you handle oily hair so it gains volume and shine. Make sure that you use the best product for your hair type to keep your tresses soft, smooth, and lustrous. Below are some products you should give a try: Volumizing Shampoo – Oily hair lacks volume, which makes it look limp and lifeless. A volumizing shampoo helps your hair gain volume so it looks thicker and fuller. Volumizing shampoos make the strands lighter as they remove oil and dirt clinging to hair. Dry Shampoo – Dry shampoo comes in various forms. You can get powder or spray dry shampoos that absorb excess oil and dirt from hair and scalp. They are so easy to use and makes your hair smoother and shinier. Dry shampoo does not leave any flaky residue on scalp. Scalp Treatment – Scalp treatment products may help regulate oil production so your scalp and hair do not get oily. Most scalp treatments are deep conditioners as well, providing hydration to the deeper layers of scalp. They prevent excessive oil production by retaining hydration on scalp and hair. Texturizing Spray – Texturing sprays give your hair airy volume and smoother texture. They remove the oily and heavy texture caused by excess oil. Foam Conditioner – If your hair feels rough and oily at the same time, you can use a foam conditioner. It does not weigh heavily on strand so your locks still look full and thick. Foam conditioners coat your hair in light moisture to make them smoother and easier to manage. Clarifying Shampoo – Clarifying shampoos help remove product residue and stubborn oil from hair and scalp. They make hair shinier and give it more volume. This product is perfect for oily hair. Shiny Leaf Tea Tree Oil Shampoo is a great shampoo that clarifies hair. It cleanses hair and scalp deeply while providing hydration that can help regulate oil production. The shampoo restores volume and shine to oily hair so it becomes more lustrous. While it’s a struggle to maintain the shine and volume of oily hair, there are lots of products that can help you along the run. Make sure that you use high-quality hair products so your hair stays full of life!
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Presents of Mind: 12 Thoughtful Gift Ideas
It’s easy to find a good gift without thinking much about it. You can get items that anyone can use – socks, mugs, or blankets. While they are good gifts to give and receive, nothing trumps a unique thoughtful present that can make anyone feel special. Christmas is the perfect season to let your loved ones feel appreciated. Keep in mind that the best gifts are not always expensive. We’re not talking about love, peace, and harmony although they come for free during the yuletide season. The best gifts are the ones that make the receiver feel warm and loved. Every year you receive dozens of presents that you end up regifting (admit it, you do this too). Make your gift stand out so it won’t end up in the dump. Thoughtful, personalized gifts that come from the heart will ensure that this never happens. We have 12 thoughtful gift ideas you’ll want to give to the special people in your life. These are great gifts to get for yourself too. 1. Custom Care Package for All Seasons Care package is one of the most thoughtful gifts you can give to anyone. It may last for months and the receiver can feel your love when they use or consume each product from the package. You can put medicine, bath products, food, and sweets in a box or jar. Make it better by attaching encouraging notes on each product. If you are giving it to a woman, you can include chocolates, personal care products, and makeup. For men, put their favorite snacks, drinks, medicine, and personal hygiene products. 2. Baking Kit and Secret Recipe Gift If you know a loved one who loves to cook or bake, this is the best gift for them! Buy them a baking kit and give them your own secret recipe. The recipe doesn’t have to be too complex. Simple recipes are enough so anyone could try it. You can include measured ingredients in the kit as well. This gives them the chance to try out the recipe immediately without spending. They can share the experience with you or other friends too. 3. Tea from Around the World Gift Set Do you know a tea-lover? A tea set from around the world is the perfect gift. There are lots of specialty teashops that import tea from around the world. You can find one in your city or you can also collect teas from various shops. Put them in a wooden tea box or a handcrafted container with labels. Tea is not only popular in Europe. Asian and African countries such as Japan, China, India, Morocco, and Kenya also produce great teas. You can include teacups and ceramic mugs as well. Lead them on a gastronomic journey around the world with a tea set. 4. Favorite Bath and Body Products in Personalized Case Having trouble thinking of the best gift for your girlfriends? Their favorite bath and body products in a monogrammed case might be the answer to your problem. The holiday season is all about parties, get-togethers, and socializing. It’s fun to spend the holidays with your loved ones. However, it also makes everyone crave for some me-time. Let your friends enjoy a spa-like experience with Shiny Leaf’s bath and body products. These products make skin feel softer and give hair a smoother texture. At the end of the day, your friends can feel better and more special after a relaxing bath. Personalize the gift with a monogrammed case that has their printed initials. This is a great gift for friends who like to travel too. The monogrammed case is the perfect container for essentials like shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and your favorite bath oils. Another idea is to include body care accessories like loofah, towel, and scrubs. 5. Engraved Watches Engraved watches might seem like a thing of the past. However, the gentlemen in your life can definitely appreciate its sentimental value. Watches are common gifts for men. It is convenient and has great value. However, it can lose its value over time especially with many competitive brands out there. You are more likely to gift someone two watches in one decade. Engraved watches, on the other hand, has a value of a lifetime. You can choose messages, names, dates, or quotes in the back of the watch. Watch engraving services are very affordable. You can buy a watch and have it engraved. Make sure that the engraving is meaningful for the receiver. 6. Printed Photo and Milestone Book If your family likes to capture everything in photos, they will definitely appreciate a printed photo book. It might be easier to just upload photos on Facebook. However, they don’t have the same sentimental value as albums. On the other hand, albums can fade and get destroyed over the years. Printing milestone photo book lasts longer and you can even edit the photos to look like magazines. This is a great gift to friends, family, and even your partner. Your gift does not have to be photos of people. You can include photos of places and food for people who like to travel. 7. Mini Bar Set If you know anyone who likes to spend their nights (not only during holidays) with a glass of wine, give them a mini bar set. Stash small bottles of various alcohols in a wooden box or big glass jar. This lets them enjoy different flavors of alcohol for various nights. Attach notes on what goes best with these drinks so they can enjoy it fully. This mini bar set is also great for people who like to travel. Mini bottles of alcohol are easier to carry around. Anyone can wind down with their favorite drink after a long day of traveling. 8. Pet Portrait Who doesn’t love a painting of their pet hanging in the living room? Pet lovers like to boast about their companion and their cuteness. In their eyes, their pet is the most beautiful and handsome there is. Instead of giving them their portrait, have a painting of their pet made. Anyone who loves his or her pet will appreciate this gift. Commission an abstract or realistic painting of their pets that will remind the receiver how awesome their companions are. Immortalizing pets is a great way to preserve the moments shared with them. Pet paintings are fun, memorable, and thoughtful gifts for everyone. 9. Mason Jar Set and Breakfast Recipes Encourage your friends and family to cook their own meals at home. Gift them a set of mason jars with a list of breakfast recipes. Mason jars are easy to bring and they are great storage for any kinds of food. The list of recipes doesn’t have to be all about oatmeal. You can store other breakfast meals in mason jars like salad, fruits, rice, and even noodles. This can help reduce plastic waste as well. There is major concern over the world’s increasing plastic pollution. Gifting mason jars might seem like a small move towards eradicating plastic pollution. However, any form of help is important to reduce plastic pollution. Instead of disposable plastic containers, your friends or family can use mason jars for packed lunch and breakfast. It is easier to wash too since edible food does not stick on glass. 10. Garden Starter Kit Friends who have a green thumb will appreciate a garden starter kit. Complete with tools and seeds, anyone can start their own mini garden. They can start growing microgreens that are healthy and more affordable than shopping. There are lots of plants, vegetables, and herbs that are easy to grow too. Growing plants can be very therapeutic. Gardening calms the mind and helps lift up your mood. It can also improve mental and physical health. Friends who like to get in touch with nature will surely love this gift. 11. Coasters with Custom Designs Friends or family who like to host parties and get-togethers love personalized coasters. Coasters protect furniture from fading and getting damaged. You can get a set of coasters designed specifically for the receiver’s preference. Some examples include their favorite movies, albums, songs, quotes from their favorite writers, or the receiver’s initials. Another suggestion is to design the coasters like a vinyl of their favorite singer or band. You can also choose different materials for coasters. There are coasters made from tiles, wood, rock, ceramic, and recycled materials. Some craftsman can create patterns out of personalized wood coasters too. 12. A Weekend Getaway in Cozy Airbnb It’s hard to think of the perfect gift for someone who seems to have everything they need and want. How about a weekend getaway? You don't need to buy tickets for overseas trips if you are on a budget. You can just book a cozy Airbnb out of town. There are rentals out of town that can serve as the perfect vacation spot for a friend, family, or your partner. Nothing says ‘you’re special to me’ than a gift that’s made just for you. A personalized gift shows that the giver knows you, your likes, and dislikes. It also shows that they’ve thought long and hard to find the perfect gift that can make you smile.
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Argan Oil Can Save Your Hair Before It's Too Late
If you have to choose only one hair care product to use for the rest of your life, what would it be? Argan oil would be the right answer. Why? Because argan oil can transform damaged hair into lustrous tresses. The oil improves hair and makes it shinier, stronger, and fuller. Argan oil is becoming a popular staple in hair care routine. If you want lustrous hair, argan oil is your go-to product. As it repairs damaged strands, argan oil restores your hair’s volume and shine. It does not only provide moisture. Argan oil nourishes your hair from roots to tips and strengthens the strands as well. Celebrities swear by the oil’s wonderful benefits. Argan oil improves hair strands to make it more resilient against damage. The oil helps your hair withstand damage caused by heat, harsh formulas, and pollution. Apply the oil in various ways and get beautiful hair that you deserve. Here are the various benefits and uses of argan oil for your hair. Make your hair shine with Morocco’s liquid gold. 6 Great Benefits of Argan Oil for Hair Argan oil is extracted from kernels of argan tree. The tree is native to Morocco, which exports the largest amount of argan oil all over the world. Argan oil is called liquid gold not only due to its golden yellow color. It also has many benefits, making it as valuable as real gold. You can use it as leave-in conditioner, hair mask treatment, or as pre-poo conditioner. Argan oil contains various essential fatty acids and nutrients that are good for hair. These essential fatty acids help condition hair for long-lasting moisture. They have therapeutic effects that help soothe scalp as well. A healthy scalp fosters growth of stronger hair. Below are the 6 top benefits of argan oil for hair and how it works. Conditions Hair for Long-Lasting Moisture Chock full of essential fatty acids, argan oil effectively conditions hair so it stays soft and smooth all day long. Argan oil contains up to 80% essential fatty acids. These fatty acids include linoleic acid, oleic, and palmitic acid. These essential fatty acids are considered as emollients, which creates a barrier on hair’s surface to prevent moisture loss. Argan oil’s high omega fatty acid content helps hydrate and moisturize hair. Argan oil has characteristics that resemble the natural oils produced by your scalp. This helps make the oil absorb faster into strands. Argan oil hydrates hair and traps moisture within each strand to prevent dryness and hygral fatigue. It coats individual strands in moisture, which traps water below hair’s surface. This prevents loss of moisture and leaves hair soft all day long. Nourishes Hair from Roots to Tips Your hair receives nourishment from the food that you eat. However, there are times that the nourishment is never enough. You can use nutrient-rich hair products that can improve hair strength. These hair products can nourish the strands and make them more resilient against damage. Argan oil is rich in essential fatty acids and vitamins that nourish hair. It provides plenty of antioxidants that can improve hair strength. The oil makes the strands thicker as well, which gives you great hair volume. You can also apply the oil on scalp to stimulate healthy hair growth. Makes Hair Softer and Shinier Argan oil can be used as an all-natural hair conditioner to make your hair softer and shinier. It works by providing moisture on hair. Moisture is what keeps your hair shiny and soft. Argan oil coats the strands in moisture, which stays on hair for a long time. The oil softens hair and makes it more manageable. When water content evaporates from hair, it does not only leave the strands dry and rough. Lack of moisture can make your hair appear dull too. Dryness reduces hair’s shine and softness. Argan oil’s ultra-moisturizing effect increases hair shine. Strengthens Individual Strands Hair becomes weak and brittle when you use harsh formulas or use heating tools too often. They remove moisture from hair and makes it brittle. Lack of moisture wears out strands, leaving them prone to breakage. Argan oil supports your hair’s protein structure. Exposing hair to harsh formulas and excessive heat can wear down on hair strands. The moisture from argan oil protects the strands from heat and harsh formulas. It helps strengthen hair’s natural barrier and cuticle layers. It improves the resilience of hair’s protein structure to reduce hair damage. Argan oil is great for all hair types especially relaxed hair. Relaxed hair becomes brittle and prone to damage after the chemical treatment. Argan oil can restore hair strength so it doesn’t break. Prevents Hair Damage There are various types of hair damage like dryness, brittleness, split-ends, and breakage. Hair damage happens when you expose hair to excessive heat, pollution, and harsh formulas without proper protection. Argan oil helps prevent and reduce signs of hair damage. Argan Oil Prevents Hygral Fatigue – Hygral fatigue makes hair more brittle and less elastic. This is the result of frequent hair washing. When you wash your hair, the water that absorbs into strands expands the shaft. Since your hair is elastic, it does not break even when strands become thick. When your hair dries, the shaft shrinks and the strands become thinner. If you wash your hair often, the strands lose their elasticity, leaving your hair brittle. Moisturizing hair various times in one day can lead to hygral fatigue too. Argan oil provides long-lasting moisture, which keeps hair moisturized all day long. The oil keeps the strands thick and resilient without reducing hair elasticity. Argan Oil Reduces Split-Ends – Split-ends occur when cuticle layers lift up from the hair shaft. This allows cracks and splits to form on your strands. These cracks grow and make cuticle layers peel away from the strand. Split ends can start from the tips of your hair and climb up to the roots. Argan oil fills in these gaps between cuticle layers and flattens them out. The oil makes cuticle layers stick to hair shaft as well for a smoother hair texture. Argan Oil Helps Control Breakage – Split ends and breakage are two different hair concerns. Breakage is when strands completely break into two and fall. Excessive breakage does not only make your hair appear short. It can also lead to other hair concerns such as split ends and excessive hair fall. Argan oil controls breakage as it strengthens hair’s protein structure. It helps repair the strand from inside the shaft and fortifies hair’s natural barrier. Fortifies Hair’s Natural Barrier Your hair has a natural barrier that protects the strands from damage caused by heat, pollution, and UV radiation. Too much hair washing can damage this natural barrier and leave your locks prone to breakage. To restore hair’s natural barrier, you can apply argan oil. The oil increases lipid content on hair’s surface, which prevents water loss. This keeps the strands smooth, thick, and lustrous. Organic argan oil is rich in vitamin E as well. Vitamin E is a potent antioxidant that prevents free radical damage. It helps protect hair from sun damage too. Best Ways to Use Argan Oil on Hair Argan oil is a rock star even among celebrities. The oil can restore dry and damaged hair to its former glory. It can help hair withstand daily wear-and-tear so your tresses remain full and lush. Argan oil is also versatile and can be used in various ways. Try the best ways to apply argan oil on hair: 1. Apply the Oil Directly on Hair Apply the oil directly on hair and scalp. You can use it as leave-in conditioner, pre-poo conditioner, or as hair treatment. The amount of oil you put on hair depends on what you are using it for. If you are using the oil as hair serum, a few drops are enough. However, if you use the oil as hair treatment, you might need a few teaspoons. Apply the oil all over hair using hands or use a brush. 2. Make Homemade Recipes Argan oil is versatile, which is why you can mix it with other oils or natural ingredients to make a homemade recipe. Whip up a hair mask or make a potent hair oil treatment. Remember to use high-quality argan oil to get all its benefits. 3. Mix with Hair Products Improve the effects of shampoos and conditioners when you mix argan oil. Use the dropper and add a few drops or a tablespoon of oil before you apply the formula on hair and scalp. The oil can prevent the drying effects of shampoo and enhance conditioner’s moisturizing properties. 4. Use Argan Oil-Infused Products Products that contain argan oil are full of nutrients that nourish, strengthen, and moisturize hair. These products are designed to deliver the full benefits of argan oil. They contain other ingredients that can enhance the oil’s benefits for hair too. Argan oil shampoo and conditioner work together to make your hair shine. It is not a secret that argan oil is great for your hair. With various benefits and uses, argan oil can save your tresses before it's too late. Argan oil is what your hair needs no matter your hair type. Ready to fall in love with your hair? Try high-quality argan oil on your hair and see its wonderful benefits.
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5 Steps to Perfect the No Makeup Look
Looking naturally fresh and beautiful is the idea behind the no makeup makeup look. Imagine having perfect flawless skin that glows from the inside. Doing this type of makeup might sound easy and simple, but it is not. But you can perfect the no makeup look in just five steps! Want to look naturally beautiful everyday? Follow our simple guide to perfect the no makeup makeup look. We promise that it would take less time and fewer products. What’s the No Makeup Look If you want a fresh and naturally beautiful appearance, this makeup is just for you. This style focuses on bringing out your best features without using too much makeup. Compared topopular makeup styles, the no makeup look aims to emphasize your natural beauty. The secret behind this look is an even skin tone and blemish-free complexion. You can prep your face with few makeups to make it look like you are glowing. The less makeup that you use, the better. If you are up for the challenge, try our 5-step routine to perfect the no makeup look. 5 Steps to Perfect the No Makeup Look Some women don’t like to wear makeup. Others don’t have the time. However, all women want to look fresh and presentable. Whether it’s for an early session of yoga, brunch, grocery shopping, or taking your kids to school, you always want to look your best. Here's a selfie-ready makeup look just for you. You don’t have to put on a ton of foundation or even lipstick with this five-step makeup routine. STEP 1: Prep your skin. Having perfectly healthy skin saves you from applying layers of foundation and concealer. Plump and radiant skin does not need much makeup. The trick is you have to ensure that your skin looks fresh and radiant. Let your skin “breathe”. This means removing buildup of dead skin cells and makeup on skin. Cleanse and exfoliate your skin before you apply makeup. These steps will unclog your pores and stimulate skin cell renewal. Exfoliating leaves your skin smoother and more radiant too. Do the same for your lips. Make your own homemade lip scrub using carrier oil and brown sugar. Massage on lips to make it smoother. Pat your face dry after exfoliating and apply toner. The toner restores the pH balance of your skin, which helps regulate oil production. It prevents your face from getting too oily throughout the day. It also preps your skin so it absorbs moisture better. You can use products that brighten and hydrate your skin as well. You can skip the primer and foundation if you have great skin. Hyaluronic Acid and Vitamin C Face Serum Set helps make your skin glow. Their combined effects help plump up your skin for a softer and smoother texture. STEP 2: Moisturize and protect your skin. Let the toner absorb into skin for a minute before you moisturize. Choose a long-lasting moisturizer to prevent your skin from looking dull and tired. Moisturizers give your skin a plump and luminous appearance. Make it a habit to apply moisturizer before you put on makeup. It will give your skin a fresher look. Moisturizer minimizes the appearance of pores so your face looks smoother. You should also apply sunscreen after putting on moisturizer. This product protects your skin from sun damage. You can use concealer if you want to cover up blemishes and dark spots but use it sparingly. If you want long-term results, use an eye cream. It lifts and brightens the skin under your eyes. Eye cream formulas help plump skin to reduce appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. Using instant lift eye creams will make your eyes look brighter. STEP 3: Do your brows and eyelashes. For the eyebrows, just use an eyebrow shaping tool such as a spoolie to brush the strands towards the direction of growth. Use upward strokes to create the messy eyebrow look like Cara Delevingne’s! Set your brows with castor oil instead of eyebrow gel. It makes your eyebrows look fuller and bolder. Your eyelashes will need some good ol’ loving too. Ditch the mascara and use castor oil instead. Curl your lashes and use a mascara wand to apply castor oil. It makes your lashes look thicker, which helps frame your eyes well. The best way to achieve the perfect no makeup look? Get fuller and thicker brows. You don’t have to fill in your brows perfectly. Instead, go for the natural messy brows. The secret is to use castor oil on your eyebrows every night. This makes eyebrows grow thicker and fuller. STEP 4: Color the apple of your cheeks. A subtle blush is important to achieve that glowing look. Don’t apply too much blush. Another great tip is to use cream blush instead of a powdered one. Cream blush moisturizes your skin as well to prevent it from getting dry and flaky. A cream blush gives you a beautiful glow that is perfect for the no makeup look. Apply the cream brush using your fingertips. Pat the cream blush all around the apple of your cheeks to blend it well. Cream blushes moisturize your skin and give it a dewy appearance. You can blend some highlighter, essence, serum, or oil with the cream blush. This gives your skin a beautiful, more luminous glow. STEP 5: Make your lips look plump and luscious. Make your lips look plump and luscious with a gentle scrub. Exfoliating your lips will give it a smoother, softer, and luscious appearance. After that, put some hydrating oil on your lips. It will protect your lips and prevent dryness. Do the rest of your makeup and finish it off with a gloss that has a tinge of color similar to your natural lip shade. This will not only give you a naturally beautiful look. Using a lip gloss or balm also makes your lips feel moisturized. Did you know what’s the best accessory that goes so well with this natural makeup look? It's your smile! What’s great about this natural makeup look is that it makes you feel good about how you look naturally. Do this makeup style for the perfect selfie look. At the end of the day, don’t forget to remove your makeup. Take good care of your skin and let it rest. Don’t skip on the essential products for your skin care routine. The healthier your skin is, the less you need cosmetics. Try this no makeup look and see how easy it is to do!
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Vacations Can Be a Crazy Time for Happy Couples
Traveling is an inspiring and rewarding experience you can share with your partner. Going on vacation as a couple might challenge your relationship, but it can give you sweet memories to treasure too. Traveling literally takes you out of your comfort zone. Lots of things can happen when you are on vacation. You can have a wild ride or drive each other crazy. Learning how to handle travel challenges with your partner can strengthen your relationship. Both traveling and being in a relationship is good for your soul. They make you feel whole and fulfilled. But just like everything else in life, they are not always a walk in the park. Vacations with your partner can be a life-changing experience. You can enjoy each other’s company without interruption. You can both take a break from work and your daily routine. Most of all, you can fall in love all over again. Ready to go on an exciting adventure? Read on to find out what makes vacation a little crazy for happy couples. 1. Agreeing to disagree What is your idea of a relaxing trip? What is their idea of a great vacation? Consider these things when planning so you can make the best out of your vacation. Compare it to your partner’s preferences and start building your vacation plans from there. Planning your trip is a chance to learn more about your partner and their preferences. When planning your trip, make sure that both of you are clear on what you prefer to do. If you and your partner can’t agree on a particular matter, list your options, compromise, or just scratch it out. This prevents fights from breaking out. You'll find yourself loving your partner more when you see that he or she is willing to let go of the small things to make your vacation enjoyable. 2. Sharing the load of organizing your vacation Planning your vacation can be the most stressful part. You need to agree where you want to go, where to stay, and what you want to do. There are a lot of things to consider. Language barrier, currency, transportation, and food are basic things you need to know about when traveling. The most important thing when you plan your vacation is that both of you are happy with your decisions. You need to share the load between the two of you. Make sure your partner does their part when organizing the trip. Decide on who will buy plane tickets, book your accommodation, and create the itinerary. Sharing the responsibilities can help you understand the strength and weaknesses of your partner. It gives the two of you an insight on how you can support them and how they will support you in the future. When both partners invest time and effort to make the trip happen, it shows interest and enthusiasm for your upcoming vacation. 3. You can share expenses to save more It might feel good to splurge when you’re on vacation, but you’re most likely to regret it later. When planning a trip, make a breakdown of all the possible expenses (include souvenirs too!) and stick to your budget. It would be best to divide basic expenses between you two so you don’t have to worry on who paid for what. Plus, it’s a great way to be economical. After all, you can reduce expenses when you share everything. When on vacation, sticking to a budget makes traveling more comfortable. You don't have to worry about running out of money. It gives you fewer things to worry about. Agreeing with each other when it comes to financial matters is also a sign that you are ready for the next level of your relationship. 4. Relaxing during your vacation Couples go on vacations so they can relax and deepen their bond. Fighting and getting stressed should not be part of your plans. Relaxing and having fun is your priority. At the end of the day, when both of you are tired from wandering around, relax. Try these tips with your partner: A wonderful massage will relieve aching feet or body. Bring your favorite castor oil to soothe your muscles. You will feel tension and stress melting away, and wake up energized. Cap off the night with a bottle of wine or hot cocoa. Talk about the things you enjoyed or didn’t like. Share your thoughts and make sure your partner feels more appreciated and loved at the end of the day. Cuddling can relieve stress and anxiety, which helps if you are on vacation. It improves your mood so you can deal with stress better too. Have your alone time. Don’t spend the whole vacation clinging to each other. Instead, try to spend some time for yourselves. Go to places and do activities that your partner doesn’t like. 5. Trying new things together You will feel braver when you are with your partner. Brave enough to get lost and explore the nooks and crannies of an unfamiliar town. Brave enough to eat a local cuisine that looks super spicy. Brave enough to try something new you know you’d never do when alone. Knowing that you are with someone you trust will make you feel that you can take on any challenges. 6. Letting go and being spontaneous An itinerary is a must if you want to make the most out of your vacation. However, you can have awesome adventures when you are spontaneous too. If it suddenly rained on a supposedly sunny afternoon, change your plans. Take shelter on the little deli you’ve passed earlier. Go visit souvenir shops and wait for the rain to stop. You can also get cheesy – dance in the rain and share a sweet kiss. Let go and just enjoy the wild ride. Being spontaneous might just be the highlight of your trip. 8. You learn how to be more patient and understanding Is your partner acting a little annoying? Is the traffic delaying you further? Don’t let it get to you. Be a bit more understanding and patient when you are with your partner. Remember that you are on vacation to have fun and getting angry can spoil your precious time together. Practicing patience and understanding can help you grow both as individuals and as a couple. Focus on positive things instead of mulling over things that frustrate you. If you are stuck in traffic, you’ll never be bored. Talk to each other, play little games, or plan your next adventure. There is always a silver lining, all you have to do is look for it. 9. Seeing your partner’s weaknesses and strengths They say that traveling is the ultimate challenge for couples. It lets you see the best and worst parts of your partner. You can have crazy good times or drive each other crazy. However, it is definitely a learning experience for both of you. Use this time to find out how your partner handles situations and how they treat people. When you are both out of your comfort zone, you are exposed to a lot of stressors. This can bring out the worst in you or your partner and you must learn how to handle their flaws. If your partner points out something you did that annoyed them, accept it graciously and talk it over. Who knows, you might go home from this vacation feeling more in love with each other. 9. Handling emergencies and stressful situations A lot of unexpected things can happen when traveling like getting lost, getting sick, and having your flight delayed for a long time. What people need most during emergencies is a reliable companion that can help sort things out. Never lose your cool. If you are lost, remember that you are not alone and you can make the best of it by wandering around and discovering new things together. Being lost on a trip can be an exhilarating experience for both of you. Vacations are all about immersing yourself in the place, its culture, and people. There is no harm in being lost as long as you have your partner with you. Moreover, there are now several location apps to help you out. 10. You’ll see if you make a good team You are not alone when you go on this vacation. You’re stuck with your partner 24/7 and this means that you need to consider their needs and wants. There will always be a difference in opinion and preference and you need to talk them over. Being a good team means that you know when to back down or meet halfway. Relationships are all about give and take. There will always be trouble in paradise so learn to compromise. You can argue about every little thing but don’t fight over it. Show respect and appreciation by accepting that you have different likes and dislikes. Vacations are great ways to learn more about your partner and get closer to each other. Get lost together and find cozy cafes or hidden restaurants. Share a hearty breakfast in bed. Appreciate the small intimate moments with the person you love. Take this vacation as a chance to fall in love more with your beau. After all, it’s not every day that you can go wild exploring new things and places.
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Top 9 Challenges for Relaxed Hair Junkies and the Best Solutions
Relaxing hair treatments are popular among women who have textured hair. The sleek and smooth appearance never fails to captivate everyone. While it is easier to manage relaxed hair, maintaining its sleek and smooth style is not so relaxing after all. You have to maintain the smooth texture of your hair while giving it body. Relaxing treatments can increase hair damage as well. Nevertheless, these hair concerns should not keep you from going for relaxers every now and then. Here are the top 9 challenges for relaxed hair junkies and tips on how you can deal with them. These tips help protect the sleekness and smooth texture of relaxed hair. Enjoy a shiny and bouncy hair with these easy hair hacks. #1 Managing Root Growth For relaxed hair, the number one concern is new root growth. It takes effort to maintain the sleek and smooth look of relaxed hair after relaxing treatments. New growth is not as smooth as relaxed hair, making it hard to comb through your locks. There is a part of your hair where new growth and relaxed tresses meet. This part of your hair is very brittle and prone to breakage. Combing or pulling hair can make the strands snap. Breakage can make relaxed hair dry, frizzy, and rough. It is important to keep this part of your hair tamed in order to protect the shine and texture of relaxed hair. How to Deal With It TIP 1: Try cowashing. Everyone knows that shampooing makes your hair dryer. Since new roots have more coils compared to relaxed hair, it is harder for the scalp to moisturize natural hair. Cowashing is the method of washing hair using a conditioner. This method ensures that your hair is hydrated and manageable. There is a small amount of surfactant in conditioners that help get rid of dirt and flakes from hair. TIP 2: Pick a suitable hairstyle to camouflage new growth. Buns, braids, twist-outs, and cornrows are some great choices to hide new growth. These hairstyles make it easier to manage relaxed hair as well. Most of these hairstyles prevent the tips of your hair from becoming frizzy as they brush against your skin and clothes. #2 Detangling Hair You might think that detangling relaxed hair is easy due to its smooth and sleek appearance. However, dry hair becomes rough and harder to comb through. Without a proper hair care routine, relaxed hair can become frizzy and tangled. Hair tangles are very painful and they often lead to breakage. The more tangled your hair becomes, the harder it is to manage it. How to Deal With It TIP 1: Apply conditioner or oil five minutes before combing hair. This allows moisture to penetrate and coat the strands to reduce hair damage and breakage. Conditioners or carrier oils such as castor oil make it easier to detangle the roots and the rest of your hair too. They make hair smoother to make the comb slide easily through hair. You can use leave-in conditioners infused with oils to strengthen hair and avoid breakage as you comb it. Castor oil products are recommended for detangling hair. TIP 2: Use a detangling spray mixed with a carrier oil. You can just use water or mix rosewater with a few tablespoons of argan oil. This mixture keeps your hair moisturized all throughout the day while gently detangling the tips of your tresses. A spritz or two is enough to release tension on tangles and knots. Comb your hair starting from the bottom and going upwards. This helps minimize the damage caused by combing. #3 Strengthening Weak Hair If relaxed hair becomes prone to breakage, it might be because of increased porosity and brittleness. Chemical treatments tend to do this to your hair. Chemicals applied to hair break the disulfide bonds to give your tresses a straight texture. However, this damages the natural barrier of hair and increases the porosity of hair strands. Without a proper hair care routine, your hair can become dry, rough, and weak. Weak hair falls and breaks easily. How to Deal With It TIP 1: Switch between moisture and protein conditioners. Hair shaft expands and contracts every time it gets wet and it gets dry. This ability of your hair is called hygral property. This shows how elastic your hair is. However, frequent expanding and contracting of the hair shaft can lead to hygral fatigue. This is a condition where your hair loses elasticity and proteins, making it more brittle and prone to breakage. A moisture conditioner ensures that your hair holds moisture all throughout the day. The protein conditioner replenishes lost nutrients to fortify hair and reduce breakage. Alternating between moisture and protein conditioner helps hair recover from hygral fatigue. TIP 2: Deep condition hair every week. Deep conditioners do not only moisturize hair – they help replenish nutrients and other substances that your hair needs as well. Deep conditioners repair hair damage in order to make it more resilient against daily wear-and-tear. #4 Getting Rid of Split Ends If your hair becomes frayed at the tips, you need some serious hair treatment. Never underestimate the effects of split ends on your hair. Split ends are a sign that your hair is damaged. It opens up the shaft as well, which increases the chance of your hair becoming dry and brittle. Split ends happen when you use too much heat on hair. Heat can destroy the protein layers of hair, making it brittle and prone to breakage. The friction as the tips of your hair brush against your skin and clothes can increase split ends too. How to Deal With It TIP 1: Sleep on silk or satin sheets and pillowcases. Cotton, polyester, and nylon cause friction which can lift up the cuticles of relaxed hair. Friction is a common enemy of chemically-treated hair. They aggravate the cuticles and make hair frizzier. Meanwhile, a silk or satin sheet reduces the friction, allowing hair to rest. Now, you have a reason to get your hands on some luxurious sheets! TIP 2: Apply heat protectant products before blow-drying hair. Blow drying hair or ironing relaxed hair can increase the risk of having split ends. A heat protectant formula or oil seals the cuticles to hair and moisturizes it to keep it smooth all day long. #5 Air Drying Without Excessive Shedding For relaxed hair, reducing the number of times that you expose it to heat helps prevent hair damage. Air drying might seem like a good idea until you brush your hair – several strands fall out, some short and some are long. The method of drying your hair makes a difference in its shine and volume. However, when you don’t air dry properly, it can make your hair break and fall. Rubbing your hair with a towel can increase frizziness and split ends. You should also dry 80% of your hair before you leave. Wet hair attracts dirt and toxins, which cling to the strands. How to Deal With It TIP 1: Dry hair with a microfiber towel. Using an ordinary towel on hair increases hair damage leading to breakage. Normal towels aggravate the cuticles and make hair frizzier. A microfiber towel helps reduce damage to hair when air drying. It is important to dry hair properly and thoroughly with a microfiber towel. TIP 2: Apply oil to hair after showering. Hygral fatigue can be the reason why your hair falls or breaks easily. Air drying leaves your hair drier and frizzier than normal. Applying oil to hair when damp locks in the water to hair to prevent drying. It keeps hair volumized as well. #6 Moisturizing Hair Even when you relax your hair, there’s no guarantee that it will stay soft and smooth. Moisture is essential to keep hair healthy and strong. Relaxed hair may feel soft and smooth; however, this does not mean that it is moisturized. While using conditioners help make hair look smooth and shiny, it is not enough to moisturize relaxed hair. Relaxed hair treatments damage your hair and the cuticles. It dries faster due to the chemical treatment. How to Deal With It TIP 1: Try pre-shampoo conditioning. Pre-shampoo conditioning is the practice of applying a carrier oil or moisturizer to hair before you shower. Put it on 5-15 minutes before you shower to allow the moisture to absorb through the strands. This fortifies the natural barrier of hair strands to prevent the shampoo from removing the moisture of hair. TIP 2: Use a rich moisturizer or conditioner. It is better to moisturize hair with powerful products than apply moisturizer several times. This prevents the loss of protein content. It improves the ability of hair to hold moisture as well. A rich moisturizer conditions hair far longer than a light formula. #7 Building Body There are many benefits to getting a relaxing treatment. It makes hair straight, smooth, and sleek. But there are downsides to relaxing hair. Loss of volume is a common concern for relaxed hair junkies. Relaxed hair can look flat and limp especially the first few weeks after the treatment. Applying mousse, hairspray, and gels to relaxed hair can make it dry and more brittle. They can also further damage the cuticles of hair by robbing it of moisture. How to Deal With It TIP 1: Get a haircut. Make sure that the haircut suits the shape of your face. The shape of your face can make your hair look too limp or too big. You can also opt for layers to create that volumized look. If relaxed hair looks lifeless, opt for a haircut that creates the illusion of body and bounce. TIP 2: Tease the roots of your hair. This method gives your hair body easily. You can do this by taking a small section of the roots of your hair and combing it back and forth. Make sure it does not look too messy. You should also use oils or creams when you do this to make the roots of your hair more manageable. Only apply the oil to the roots and tips of your hair. #8 Retaining Length Relaxed hair will look longer because the strands are stretched. However, keep in mind that due to increased breakage and shedding, your hair will feel like it is not growing as much as you would want. Without a proper hair care routine, the new roots will grow curly, which is equal to hair growing a few centimeters a year. The length of relaxed hair may seem shorter as time passes after the treatment. This is because breakage at the tips of your hair is common. Excessive breakage leaves your hair noticeably shorter. How to Deal With It TIP 1: Monitor your hair ends and trim every week. Trimming might seem like a contradictory action when you’re trying to maintain the length of your hair. However, removing frayed ends save you the trouble of hair breakage. Split ends start from the tips of your hair and it crawls up through the hair shaft. You can prevent chipped and broken cuticles by trimming hair regularly. The trick is to use sharp scissors to get rid of split ends. TIP 2: Make sure to stay consistent. This is important in keeping your hair healthy and smooth. Consistency means following a strict hair care routine to nourish and protect your hair. You should also remember your hair stylist’s reminder of when you should go back for another treatment. Stick to a schedule to prevent hair from snapping off at the point where relaxed hair and natural hair meets. #9 Preventing Hair Breakage Hair breakage prevents your hair from achieving its best form. If you feel like your hair is not growing at all – consider the chances that your hair is prone to breakage. Dry and brittle hair tends to lose volume and shine over time. Simple habits such as tying your hair or using a blow dryer can make your hair break. It is important to be careful when handling relaxed hair because it breaks easily. Even the products that you use can affect the strength and health of relaxed hair. Sulfate is a big no-no for relaxed tresses. It leaves your hair dry and rough. The same goes for equally harsh chemicals. How to Deal With It TIP 1: Use dry shampoo a few times in a week. Other than limiting the number of times you wash your hair, you can also use a dry shampoo instead. It removes the dirt, excess oil, and flakes on the scalp, without getting rid of necessary moisture. Dry shampoos leave your hair and scalp fresh and clean after! TIP 2: Switch to nutrient and protein-rich hair products. Relaxed hair needs different products that restore its strength after the treatment. You might need to get rid of your entire collection of hair products in order to maintain your hair’s sleek and smooth appearance. Castor oil is a good source of nutrients and protein that strengthen hair. It fortifies your hair to reduce breakage while promoting growth of resilient strands. You can use shampoos and conditioners infused with castor oil to keep relaxed hair shiny and manageable. Get these products at great prices here. Bonus Guide: Fighting these relaxed hair challenges isn't always easy. But if you know the right products to choose and to avoid, you'll never be wrong. Here's a quick guide to help you find out which ingredients to avoid when looking at different products for your relaxed hair. Achieve the sought-after smoothness of relaxed hair with suitable hair products. Remember that nourishment and moisture are the best friends of healthy hair. Jump through these hair hurdles with tips that ensure your hair stays lustrous even after relaxing hair treatments.
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