Features
Are You Conditioned to Shampoo First?
Break the habit. Because fine and lifeless hair is not fine at all. I was used to the feeling of having flat, lifeless hair after shower. It feels too oily, too straight, and too limp as if I haven’t rinsed it enough. Most conditioners weigh heavily on my hair, making it look like a deflated balloon framing my face. The lack of defined waves frustrated me, but between frizzy or limp hair – I chose the lesser evil. In return, I have to sacrifice volume for less frizz. That is until I discovered the reverse wash method. As its name implies, the reverse method challenges the norm by using conditioner before shampoo. There’s been a craze about this method recently mainly because it is uncommon. Many experts have been recommending it especially for those who have fine hair. Reverse wash method increases hair volume, prevents frizz, and still leaves your hair feeling silky smooth. Using traditional methods of shampoo before a conditioner might seem like the best way to wash your hair, but it might be the one factor holding your hair back from its lustrous form. Fine hair tends to look flat and unruly after it dries. To compensate for the lack of volume, you can use styling products and hair serums. Or you can try this reverse wash method. See results even with just one wash! Reverse Wash Method Reverse wash method is just the regular way of washing your hair, just backward. Instead of cleansing hair and scalp first, you use a conditioner to moisturize and fortify hair. Here are the easy steps of reverse wash method: STEP 1: Wet hair and scalp. Remove excess water from hair to help the conditioner absorb through hair faster and easier. STEP 2: Take enough amount of the conditioner and apply to hair. Start from the mid-length to the tips of your hair. Apply excess conditioner to scalp. Massage for a minute and leave it on. STEP 3: Rinse after 2-3 minutes. Apply shampoo on hair and scalp, and rinse again. Pro Tip: Dry your hair using a soft face towel instead of the same towel you use for the rest of your body. Do not rub hair vigorously with the towel. Instead, pat your hair dry. Rubbing your hair with a regular towel can make the cuticles lift up from the body of each hair strand, leading to increased frizziness. Reverse hair wash has great benefits for hair. It works best for fine hair since it is often limp and lacking in volume. This reverse wash method is easy. It might feel wrong at first, but it will definitely make your hair more lustrous. It makes your hair look thicker and prevents frizziness. Remember that not all regular shampoo and conditioner work for this method. For my hair care routine, I used Shiny Leaf Argan Oil Shampoo and Conditioner Set. Both these products contain argan oil and other moisturizing extracts that reinforce the hydration to my hair. I also noticed that there are less split ends after using the combo set regularly. The shampoo didn’t feel as drying compared to other shampoos I’ve tried. You can try this duo for great results. How Does It Work Experts found that using a conditioner before shampoo helps a lot to give hair a thicker and fuller appearance while preventing frizziness. By using a conditioner first, you can fortify your hair early on to protect it from the harsh formula of the shampoo. It seals the moisture or water in the hair shaft and smooths the cuticles as well. It strengthens the hair’s protective layer to prevent dryness or damage during cleansing. Shampooing hair after gets rid of the excess formula and removes the weight of the conditioner from hair. This reverse wash method reduces frizziness, increases hair volume, and makes hair bouncier. How the Cleanse-and-Condition Method Damages Hair If you are prone to having frizzy, limp, and dry hair then you need to try this backward method of washing hair. Shampoos leave your hair shinier and drier than usual. To bring back the soft and smooth texture of hair, you use a conditioner. Yet, there are instances that your hair still gets frizzy and wild after it dries. This is a normal occurrence, especially for fine wavy hair. On the other hand, straight normal hair tends to look limp and feel oily after conditioning. Find out why these things happen to your hair. Why Does Hair Feel Dry Even After Conditioning? Some hair types are highly porous, meaning they are vulnerable to breakage. Moisture escapes easily and leaves hair drier. Cleansing hair increases this porosity, leaving hair with more gaps in the cuticles. Most shampoos don’t contain ingredients that add more moisture to your hair. Its primary role is to change the feel and texture of hair by making it softer, smoother, and more manageable. But it does not mean that it moisturizes your hair. In fact, most formulas only coat the outermost layer of hair strands, unlike the conditioners that contain essential oils. As hair dries, the formula dries along with it. While it might make your hair feel softer, it can still cause the frizziness. Since hair has high porosity, it allows the moisture and hydration to evaporate fast, leaving hair dry and frizzy. What Makes Your Hair Limp and Heavy? It is possible that you are over conditioning your hair. Straight hair has enough moisture to make it soft and shiny. The scalp produces natural oil to moisturize the hair. Unlike the other hair types, this natural oil moisturizes hair from the roots to the tips. The lack of curls or bends in the hair makes it easier for the oil to reach the entire length of hair strands. Since hair is already moisturized, the formula of a conditioner only clings to hair. Rinsing with water might not remove all traces of the product from the hair strands. This leaves a deposit on hair that makes your tresses feel heavy and making hair lose volume. I Tried the Reverse Wash Method for A Week Who doesn't want their hair to get fuller, shinier, and smoother? I sure do. That's why I immediately tried reverse wash method when I heard about it. I assumed at first, that I won't see results after a few weeks of using this method. For once, I was so glad to be wrong. Here's what happened when I tried reverse washing for one week. DAY 1 The first picture is how my hair looks when I tried reverse washing the first time. The moment I applied the conditioner to my hair, I was horrified. All I felt was rough, oily, and heavy. When I applied shampoo to get rid of the heaviness of the conditioner, I was surprised to find that it feels very refreshing. It didn’t feel as smooth when wet, but when my hair dried, it was amazingly smooth. I noticed that there is less frizzing throughout the day too. DAY 3 There wasn't much of a difference on my second day of trying this method. On the third day, my hair looked so full and thick that I didn't have to use a volumizing spray. The argan oil shampoo wasn't as drying as regular shampoos, so I really enjoyed how my hair feels so smooth even though it wasn't as soft as I hoped it would be. DAY 5 On day five, I found out the trick to having fuller and shinier hair without making it dry. I used less amount of shampoo I normally use and diluted it with half a cup of water. I applied it to my scalp and let the lather do its work. There was a huge difference in the texture and shine of my hair. DAY 7 The last day of my experiment turned out to be the start of a new hair care routine. Throughout the whole week, I was using less and less products. I stopped using volumizing sprays and moisturizing serums. As my hair gains volume, shine, and softness, I also noticed that there was less frizzing and drying as compared to the regular way of washing hair. Although I can't say the same to others who have a different hair type, so far, this works for fine and wavy hair. Try These Tips I Found Helpful for the Reverse Wash Method Reverse hair wash method is the key to reducing frizziness and increasing hair volume. Here are some things you need to expect as a first-timer and tips so you can get better results: Your hair will feel rough, oily, and tangled when you apply the conditioner. This is normal so make sure not to use too much conditioner. For better results, remove excess water from hair. Do not wring your hair! Instead, squeeze gently from the mid-lengths to the tips. Avoid directly applying the conditioner to scalp. Remember that your scalp produces natural oil and applying conditioner can clog hair follicles. Always start from the roots going downwards. Apply the excess conditioner to scalp after. Your hair will not feel as smooth and heavy. However, you will notice the tangles on your hair. Comb through hair as you apply the conditioner. It will reduce the damage done to hair while removing tangles. Focus on shampooing the scalp and let the lather reach the tips of hair. It will leave your scalp feeling fresh and clean right after. Rinse using lukewarm or cold water to retain the moisture to hair. Hair will feel a bit rough compared to using a conditioner at the end of every wash. Let it dry before brushing and you will notice how easy it is to comb hair! Use moisturizing shampoo and conditioner so you can help repair hair damage as you wash it. Not all hair products work for this method so stick to trusted brands. Every day used to be a bad hair day until I tried reverse hair wash method. I was thoroughly satisfied with the results – I managed to tame the frizziness of my hair and increase its volume. I was ready to party the moment my hair dried. I recommended it to my friends who have different hair types as well and they all loved it. What makes this method even greater is that one size fits all! Whether you have hair that is coarse, rough, fine, dry, or frizzy – reverse washing is for you. Give it a shot and let’s see how well your hair fares for the day! Try this with nourishing sets of shampoos and conditioners. We offer a collection of high-quality hair products you'll find suitable for your hair type. Get the Argan Oil Shampoo and Conditioner Set here.
Learn more
How to Use Essential Oils Safely When Pregnant
Pregnancy is a fulfilling chapter of a woman’s life. You carry life inside you for nine months, which is an amazing miracle. However, this does not mean that you get to enjoy every moment of it. Morning sickness, weird cravings, muscle ache, and fatigue are some of the symptoms that you will experience. If you’re looking for the perfect solution to ease your body and mind, essential oils are perfect. There are a lot of misleading information regarding the use of essential oils when you’re pregnant. It is safe for you to use the right kind of essential oils using the proper methods. Just remember that if you want to enjoy the benefits of using oils, it is important for you to learn how to use them properly. Are Essential Oils Safe to Use When Pregnant? Essential oils are versatile and you can use them in various ways whether it’s for personal care or overall wellness. Aside from aromatherapy, essential oils are safe to use topically. You can even ingest certain oils with precaution. Since essential oils have concentrated compounds, some people assume that they can affect the development of the baby or harm your body. Here are some of the things you need to know when using essential oils while pregnant: 1. Do your research before you use essential oils. Essential oils are not dangerous for pregnant women. There have been controversies about the supposed risk of essential oil compounds to cross over the placenta. According to Tisserand and Balacs, authors of Essential Oil Safety, there can only be a risk if the essential oil has high toxicity and concentration. Essential oils are generally safe to use even when you are pregnant. Myths about oils causing premature birth, miscarriage, and affected milk supply are not necessarily true or wrong. Since your body is more delicate when pregnant, you need to practice extra precautions. Learn about these safety measures and what kinds of oils are recommended for you by doing your own research and consulting certified experts. 2. Make sure that you are using high-quality essential oils. The toxicity, purity, and overall safety of essential oils depend on the quality of the oil. Look for trusted brands that use the finest ingredients to create high-quality oil. This will help you avoid any risks of irritation or allergic reactions. Some oils might contain fillers such as solvents so make sure to look out for them. 3. Use only food-grade oils for cooking. Yes, it’s safe to ingest essential oils when you are pregnant. Olive oil, coconut oil, and sunflower oil are the types of oil that are safe for you to ingest. Most food-grade oils used for ingestion are mixed with food and beverages to dilute their effects. Avoid using pure oils that have high concentration because they are very potent and may cause burning, irritation, nausea, and other effects. 4. You can use certain essential oils when pregnant. Not all essential oils are safe for you to use. You can use a lot of essential oils to help with your pregnancy but make sure that they are not potent and toxic oils that can harm you. You also have to follow the proper use of essential oils to avoid any unwanted reaction and remember to always dilute the oils. Castor oil is not as dangerous for pregnancy. This is if you limit its use to topical application. It is important to only apply small amounts of diluted castor oil to affected areas to treat skin concerns such as acne. 5. Start small and slow. If it is your first time to use essential oils when pregnant, start with small amounts of oil and in intervals. Increase the amount as needed or advised by doctors. Avoid excessive use of essential oils whether for topical, aromatherapy or for ingestion. Essential Oils to Avoid There are many oils that are not recommended to use when pregnant. They may have strong scents or effects that can cause allergic reactions or irritation when used. You can look for other oils that can be used as alternatives. If pregnant or nursing, avoid using the following essential oils: Basil oil Birch essential oil Camphor essential oil Cinnamon bark oil Clary sage essential oil Eucalyptus Oil Parsley seed oil Tarragon essential oil Thyme essential oil Vetiver essential oil Wintergreen essential oil White fir essential oil Wormwood essential oil How to Use Essential Oils Safely There are proper ways of using essential oils, depending on what oil you are using and where you will apply them. Make sure that you follow the proper methods of application and usage to avoid risks. For Aromatherapy Aromatherapy is one of the most effective ways of using essential oils when pregnant. You can use essential oils to deal with the common symptoms of pregnancy. Oils help lessen nausea, vomiting, fatigue, and cravings. Here’s how you can use aromatherapy oils safely when pregnant: Choose mild oils that are soothing to your mind and body. Whether you will diffuse them or apply them topically, make sure to dilute with carrier oils or water. Diffuse a small amount of the oil to test if it does not cause nausea or dizziness. Apply to wrists or to the base of your neck in small amounts. It’s best to use mild oils for topical application. Mix a few drops of aromatherapy oil with water and spray to linens. Put a few drops of oil on a cotton ball and smell it directly. For Topical Use Topical oils should be gentle and light for skin and hair. Carefully select the oils that you will apply directly to skin or scalp. Stick to oils that are familiar to you. If you want to try new oils, do a patch test in a small area on the back of your hands. Here are some tips for preparing and using topical oils when pregnant: Dilute essential oils with lighter carrier oils. Mix with hair and skin care products to reduce the strong effects of the oils. Apply as recommended by doctors and in small amounts. Avoid applying directly to the damaged skin. Remember not to use food-grade oils when applying directly to skin and scalp. For Ingestion Avoid using pure and concentrated essential oils. Food-grade oils are the only type of oil safe to ingest. Mix them with food or beverages in small and regulated amounts to avoid any type of sensitive reaction. Stick to familiar food-grade oils such as olive oil, coconut oil, and sunflower oil. Remember to always mix essential oils with lighter oils or food so that it masks the strong scent and flavor. Follow these tips when using oils for ingestion: Avoid drinking directly in huge amounts. Food-grade oils have distinct scents and flavors that may be unpleasant when taken directly. The thickness of oils might make it hard to swallow as well. You can put 1-2 drops of oil in an organic capsule to help with better ingestion. It will help protect your body from irritation as well. There are various ways to take essential oils: Put the oil directly under the tongue Mix with food and beverages Put in capsules Avoid taking essential oils numerous times in one day. You can ingest essential oils to ease the following symptoms of pregnancy: Heartburn Morning sickness Nausea Indigestion Top 5 Essential Oils You Can Use When you use essential oils properly, you can get various physical and emotional benefits. Essential oils do not only ease your body, it helps calm your mind to help you cope with the stress and anxiety caused by pregnancy. Mild essential oils such as the following are safe for aromatherapy and topical uses. Lavender Oil Lavender oil has soothing properties that are great for aromatherapy and topical use. It helps ease nausea and dizziness. The oil will aid in relaxing you for better and faster sleep. What’s more, you can use the oil in skin care. Use lavender to lift your spirits and to chase away the stress. It is effective in soothing swollen feet or aching legs too. Here’s a recipe that will help relax your muscles to get rid of the pain: Ingredients: 2 drops lavender oil 2 drops ginger oil 2 drops cedarwood oil 2 teaspoons coconut oil Procedures: Melt the coconut oil and mix it with the essential oils. Transfer to a clean container. Massage your legs and feet using the mixture. Use circular motions to help stimulate better blood flow. Do this every night to reduce aching heels. Chamomile Oil Chamomile oil is popular for its calming fragrance that is great for pregnant women. Pregnancy is one of the best and most nerve-wracking moments in a woman’s life. It can be especially hard for new moms. Stress, anxiety, fear, and other symptoms of pregnancy can take a toll on you physically and emotionally. Chamomile oil will reduce feelings of stress and anxiety to help you enjoy pregnancy better. It aids in better sleep as well. Insomnia and fatigue are common signs that you might be under stress. Try this easy recipe you can use for insomnia, nausea, and morning sickness: Ingredients: 2 drops chamomile oil 2 drops marjoram oil 2 drops lemon oil 10 ml argan oil Procedures: Prepare a clean bowl and add sweet almond oil. Mix the essential oils until the mixture has a smooth consistency. Transfer to a clean container. Massage the mixture to your feet or diffuse the blend 30 minutes before sleeping. Argan Oil Argan oil has great moisturizing and anti-aging properties. It is rich in vitamins, essential fatty acids, and antioxidants that are good for your skin and hair. Argan oil is gentle enough to soften your skin and condition your hair. It is good for massaging aching muscles and joints too. This body butter recipe will tighten your skin and improve its radiance. You can use it to keep your skin smooth and reduce the appearance of wrinkles and stretch marks. Here is how you can do the recipe: Ingredients: ½ cup argan oil ½ cup shea butter 1 teaspoon of cornstarch 10 drops of essential oils blend Preferably lavender, chamomile, and argan oil Procedures: Whisk shea butter in a clean bowl until it has a creamy consistency. To soften shea butter, you can warm the small bowl to melt the butter. Mix argan oil while mixing. Add cornstarch and the blend of essential oils. Mix the ingredients together until it is smooth. Transfer to a clean container. Get a small amount of the body butter and apply to the desired area. Massage in circular motions to help absorption of moisture and nutrients. Ylang-Ylang Oil Ylang-ylang oil has a sweet smell with traces of sharp fruitiness. It is good for your nervous system and helps alleviate feelings of anxiety and depression. Anxiety is a common issue of pregnant women who also feel a lot of stress. It often leads to depression especially after giving birth. If you are experiencing post-partum depression, here is a good recipe that will help pick up your mood: Ingredients: 2 drops ylang-ylang oil 2 drops bergamot or other citrus oils Procedures: Mix the essential oils in a clean bowl. Apply to temples, base of the neck, or wrists to get a whiff of the relaxing scent. You can diffuse it for a relaxing time at home too Bergamot Oil Bergamot essential oil has a fresh and citrusy scent that is great for boosting your energy. It helps prevent depression too. Smelling the fragrance of bergamot essential oil is good for relieving tension in muscles and helps relax the body. It is good for you if you often experience fatigue. Try your hand at creating this essential oil spray: Ingredients: 4 drops bergamot oil 3 drops cedarwood oil 2 drops sandalwood oil Procedures: Mix the essential oils in a clean bowl. Diffuse 30 minutes before sleeping. You can add this blend to your bath too to help ease your body into a relaxed state. You can use various blends of gentle essential oils for body care. Essential oils have therapeutic effects that will soothe your body and help with the symptoms of pregnancy. Just look for the best essential oils that suit your needs.
Learn more
Quick and Easy Aftershave Recipes for Men and Women
Shaving might get rid of the unwanted hair but it can give you razor burns and irritated skin. Having red and bumpy skin is a sign that you’re not doing it right. Shaving is the art of getting smooth and hairless skin that is free from bumps, rashes, or redness. Don’t let bumps get in your way – whip up the perfect aftershave that gives you soft and smooth skin. With summer just around the corner, having hairy legs or unruly beards is unacceptable. With the best aftershave, you can get a hair-free skin that feels silky smooth. No need to look far – try these two easy recipes for an aftershave that will save you from rashes and burns. How Razor Burns and Rashes Happen Shaving requires time and tenderness. Rushing causes burns and rashes. When you shave your skin, you are damaging the surface. You are using blades to cut hair strands from the roots. It scrapes the outermost layer of skin, causing irritation. You can mellow it out by using shaving cream. However, it does not soften the abrasion caused by the blades. The ugly side effects of shaving are often caused by being too harsh when shaving. When you rush into getting rid of the hair, it makes you use greater pressure, which scrapes against the surface of your skin. When you shave the hair just above the surface of skin, the strand coils into itself and grow inwards. Ingrown hair causes inflammation that can be very painful. When you don’t apply an aftershave or a moisturizer after, skin can break out or get infected. Moisturizing oils or aftershaves do the trick in keeping your skin soft and free from blemishes. Some store-bought aftershave contains chemicals that might be more harmful to skin. Instead of buying expensive aftershave, you can make your own aftershave at home! Soothing Aftershave for Women It's the time of the month to lose hair in all the right places, including your private parts, ladies! If you prefer smooth, soft skin, shaving is the easiest and fastest way. Shaving is better for your skin compared to waxing too. Waxing your legs or private parts doesn't only hurt. It damages hair follicles as well. While shaving is better for your skin, it doesn't mean your skin won't suffer after. Lack of aftercare can result in itchiness, inflamed follicles, razor burns, and rashes. If you want to keep your legs, arms, and lady parts itch-free, this aftershave recipe is a must-try! Ingredients 1 tablespoon distilled water 2 teaspoons vegetable glycerin 2 tablespoons aloe vera gel 2 tablespoons witch hazel 2 drops ylang-ylang oil 2 drops bergamot oil 5 drops rose essential oil Directions Prepare the materials you need such as clean mixing bowl, whisk, and clean spray bottles. Mix aloe vera gel, distilled water, and witch hazel in a small bowl. Whisk until it has a smooth consistency. Add the vegetable glycerin and favorite oils with rose essential oil. Whisk until well-incorporated. Transfer the mixture to the spray bottle. Shake well before applying to skin. Application After shaving, pat the area dry with a soft microfiber towel. Don’t apply the aftershave right after washing the shaving cream off your skin. Spray the mixture to hands and rub palms together. Do not spray directly to skin. Pat the aftershave into skin and spread gently. Allow the mixture to be absorbed before using a moisturizer. Why It’s Good for You This aftershave moisturizes your skin greatly. It soothes skin to prevent irritation and makes it softer to the touch. Aloe vera is highly moisturizing. This extract replenishes the moisture to skin to prevent dryness. Since women have more sensitive skin than men, a soothing aftershave works best for you. Vegetable glycerin seals the moisture on the surface of your skin to prevent moisture from escaping. Rose essential oil blends well with ylang-ylang oil and bergamot oil. It gives the aftershave a nice scent, perfect for women. The rose essential oil provides antibacterial and astringent properties as well. They minimize hair follicles and tighten skin while preventing ingrown hair. Witch hazel is another astringent that has therapeutic properties for skin. It seals in the moisture to skin and alleviates any inflammation of hair follicles. Woodsy Aftershave Balm Ingredients 1 tablespoon beeswax 1 tablespoon aloe vera 2 tablespoons raw shea butter 5 tablespoons argan oil 4 drops sandalwood oil 4 drops pine oil Directions Fill a small pot filled with water and put on a medium heat stove. Place a bowl on top of the pot, large enough to cover the opening. Melt the beeswax and shea butter in the bowl until it has a smooth consistency. Remove from heat and add the aloe vera and argan oil. Mix until smooth and creamy. Transfer to a clean container with an airtight lid. Place in the fridge until the mixture gets solid. Remove after a few hours and whisk with a hand-mixer. Add essential oils during the process and store in a cool place when done. Application Pat your skin dry with a gentle towel. Let your skin rest for a few minutes. Use a small amount of the balm and apply directly to the shaved area. Spread until whole are is covered. Let dry and you are done! There’s no need to apply a moisturizer. Why It’s Good for You Like any balm, this creamy aftershave soothes skin and inflammation that might be caused by shaving. Beeswax and shea butter are natural moisturizers that seal in the water to the deeper layers of skin. It makes your skin softer and tougher against dryness. Aloe vera has soothing properties that provide added moisture as well. Argan oil is a deep moisturizing ingredient that is light on your skin. It provides essential fatty acids and vitamins that improve skin health. Argan oil’s known as an anti-aging oil too. It is rich in antioxidants that help reverse the signs of skin damage. Coupled with the soothing effects of natural butter, and you’ll never feel your skin as smooth after you apply the aftershave balm. The sandalwood and pine oil are perfect for creating the woodsy scent that will attract women towards you. These homemade aftershaves are affordable and easy to make. Shaving is definitely a safe alternative to waxing, which can damage the follicles. You just need the right aftershave to protect your skin from bumps, burns, and rashes. Feel a softer skin and smell better after. Don’t fear the razor. Get rid of the fuzz with the buzz.
Learn more
15-Minute Hair Care Routine for Busy Moms
Being a mom is exciting and extremely fulfilling. Motherhood is joy itself, but you know just how hard it can be. Having kids is incredible, but you know well how much sacrifices you have to make. You sacrifice all that you can give to make sure your kids are happy. Luckily, your hair isn’t one of them. As a mom, you may feel like you barely have time for yourself at all. Cutting corners to save time is an art you’ve perfected over the years. However, being busy is no excuse for having messy and frizzy hair. Keep being an amazing woman and still have gorgeous hair at the same time. It’s possible! Try this 15-minute hair care routine to get the beautiful hair you deserve. Why You Need to Ditch Mom Buns Whether you’re a mother of a toddler or three teenagers, the responsibility doesn’t get easier. Having a messy hair is something all moms are familiar with. You can’t visit a salon with how busy you are and sometimes you even forget to use conditioners. You constantly put your hair in a mom bun without knowing that it might be damaging your hair. Your hair loses its shine and luster as you age. Not having a proper hair care routine can speed up the deterioration of hair. It gets drier, duller, and more brittle over time. Frizzy and messy hair is so familiar you’ve become comfortable with it. Mom buns and messy ponytails save you from looking like a complete mess. However, they can damage your hair more. Putting your hair in tight constraints causes breakage that leads to the development of split ends. Having your hair in a bun can prevent the natural oil on your scalp from moisturizing the ends of your hair. At the end of the day, you get messy waves that feel like straw. Hair damage can get worse if you leave them untreated. If you have these hair concerns, it is time for you to consider having an effective hair care routine: Dull hair and thin volume Frizzy hair that is hard to style Dry and rough hair texture Brittle hair strands that break easily Split-ends from the tips of hair up to the midlengths Dandruff Bald patches Grey hair color 15-Minute Hair Care Routine This routine replenishes moisture on hair while providing nutrients that strengthen the strands. It improves your hair’s texture, volume, softness, and shine. You can tweak it to address certain hair concerns such as frizziness and hair breakage. Here are the products and steps you need for this easy 15-minute hair routine. What You Need: Shower cap Shampoo/Hair Rinse Conditioner 3-4 tablespoon of hair oil Argan Oil Sweet Almond Oil Jojoba Oil Castor Oil Avocado Oil Coconut Oil Use your choice of hair oil. Each of these oils has moisturizing and nourishing benefits for hair. They help restore the strength of hair and gives extra shine. Hair oils improve the resilience of hair as well to prevent hair loss. If you’re suffering from cases of greying or thinning hair, use hair oils every night to keep hair lustrous and bouncy. Instructions: Here are the steps of the 15-minute hair care routine: STEP 1: Brush your hair to remove flakes or debris trapped in strands. It helps remove the tangles that can cause breakage as well. Brushing hair makes hair easier to handle. It distributes oil to hair strands too. You can do this before you apply oil and when styling hair. STEP 2: Use one tablespoon of your preferred hair oil and apply it to the tips of your hair. Start from the bottom and slowly move upwards. Use enough oil to cover the entire length of hair and scalp. Massage the oil into scalp thoroughly and make sure your entire hair length is covered with oil. You can leave the oil on hair overnight or rinse it off right after 5 minutes. Wear a shower cap to avoid oil stains. STEP 3: Cleanse hair with a rinse or a shampoo. A rinse is a recipe made from organic or natural ingredients that cleanses hair without containing chemicals. Apple cider vinegar and baking soda are great examples of a hair rinse. Use a gentle shampoo to remove excess oil without completely getting rid of the moisture on hair. Wash off the products on hair with cold water. STEP 4: Wring out excess water from hair. Apply a conditioner from hair ends to midlengths. You don’t need to apply conditioner to scalp since it produces enough oil on its own. Leave it on for 2 minutes before rinsing off. You still need to use a conditioner since it has different effects from the oil. Conditioners seal the moisture to hair strands to prevent them from escaping. This helps keep hair soft and smooth all day long! STEP 5: Remove excess water from hair with a clean towel and use a hair dryer. Style hair any way you want! You’ll notice that is softer and shinier after the routine. Leaving the oil on hair overnight repairs damage such as split-ends and rough hair texture. The oil seeps into hair strands to deliver nourishing nutrients as well. You can do this every night or in the morning. When your kids are asleep or in school, you have time to do this hair routine too. Quick and Easy Hair Care Tips It’s not too late for you to restore your hair to its former glory. There are simple ways you can keep hair looking lustrous and shiny even when you’re busy. Try these quick and easy tips to get gorgeous hair: Use cold or lukewarm water in shower. Hot water strips off the necessary moisture from hair, leaving it dry and brittle. Cold water helps rinse hair without causing damage. Mix oils with shampoo and conditioner. Essential oils are rich in vitamins, minerals, and moisture that protect hair from damage. Mixing them with hair products help provide extra nourishment. Use clips, pins, or scrunchies instead of a hair tie. Hair ties can damage hair, especially when they are made from plastic. Plastic or rubber ties damage the cuticles, which causes breakage. Clips and pins hold hair into any shape while scrunchies are made with a soft cloth that is gentle on hair. Drink plenty of water. Water helps hydrate your body, skin, and hair! It helps retain the moisture of hair to keep it shiny and soft. Stick to a strict hair care routine. Having a hair care routine is important. It doesn’t need to be an hour long 15 minutes is enough to provide the basic needs of hair and more. Mothers know best, except when it comes to hair care. Remember that you can still take good care of your loved ones including yourself. It will not hurt to put a little time into giving yourself an easy hair care treat. Start doing this 15-minute hair care routine to get fabulous hair that makes you feel more confident. Make your hair as awesome as you are!
Learn more
3-Ingredient Anti-Hair Loss Treatment Recipe
Losing hair every day is normal. You lose 50-100 strands a day, which might seem a lot. However, losing that much hair in a day is minor compared to the shedding that happens if you have hair loss issues. If you think you are losing too much hair, try this homemade three-ingredient anti-hair loss treatment recipe may help. Treat hair loss with castor oil, argan oil, and coconut oil. These oils have benefits when applied to hair and scalp. Mixing them together enhances their effects, which help with hair concerns such as hair loss. Find out if these oils prevent and treat hair loss! How Hair Loss Happens Hair loss is characterized by excessive hair fall. It is also a sign of hair loss when hair starts falling in larger than usual clumps and bald spots or patches starts showing up on your scalp. Thin hair volume is another sign that you’re suffering from hair loss. There could be many reasons why hair loss happens. One of them is due to vitamin deficiency. Nutrients such as biotin and protein are necessary for healthy hair growth. Lack of certain vitamins and minerals weaken hair and cause breakage. Another factor that can be causing hair loss is the use of harsh products. The scalp produces natural oil, which keeps hair moisturized. Using harsh products like cleansers can weaken hair and cause breakage. To treat hair loss, make sure to provide the nourishment, moisture, and protection. Stick to gentle products cleanse and condition hair. 3 Ingredients that Restore Hair Health Restore hair luster and shine with essential oils. This recipe uses just three ingredients – castor oil, argan oil, and coconut oil. Each one has benefits that help nourish and strengthen hair. Find out how these oils help improve your hair to prevent hair loss. Don’t miss out on the great benefits of using this homemade solution. Castor Oil Castor oil is well-known as one of the best treatments for various scalp and hair conditions such as hair loss. It is a unique source of ricinoleic acid, which provides therapeutic properties for your hair and scalp. These properties help soothe the scalp to prevent dryness, damage, and hair loss. The anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory effects of castor oil are good all-natural remedy for the scalp. It stimulates the blood flow on the scalp to promote healthy hair growth. Castor oil speeds up the growth of hair too. Castor oil helps balance the natural oils in your scalp to keep it dandruff-free as well. Your hair also benefits from proteins found in castor oil. Protein makes up hair and using castor oil keep the strands resilient against damage. Argan Oil Argan oil is rich in essential fatty acids and vitamins that nourish and moisturize hair. Dubbed as ‘liquid gold’, it is not only the oil’s color that makes it popular. It has various benefits that prevent hair loss. Argan oil is a common ingredient in hair products due to its nourishing properties. Vitamins and minerals found in Argan oil thicken hair to make it more resilient to damage. Thin hair is more prone to breakage and hair fall. Argan oil is particularly abundant in Vitamin E. It fights free radicals to protect hair from damage. The oil is highly absorbent, hydrating the scalp and hair deeply. It seals in the water to the strands to prevent brittleness. Coconut Oil Coconut oil is a natural moisturizer that helps curb hair loss. As an organic oil, it contains essential nutrients that help make hair thicker and stronger. It improves the ability of hair to retain moisture as well. This prevents dryness of hair and regulates the production of oil on the scalp. Coconut oil has high levels of lauric acid, an important component of hair growth. Lauric acid absorbs through the hair shaft and reaches the roots o the hair. It protects the hair strands from roots to tips. Coconut oil binds various proteins to strengthen the root of strands as well. It soothes scalp inflammation and stimulates blood flow on the scalp. Scalp inflammation can affect the resilience of hair to damage. How Essential Oils Prevent Hair Loss Having dry hair and scalp means that you are prone to hair loss. The lack of moisture weakens hair follicles and can make hair strands brittle. Moisture is important for keeping hair healthy and full of volume. Essential oils are rich in moisture and nourishment that strengthens hair. They help restore hair health while improving its texture, shine, volume, and resilience. Oils make hair feel softer and smoother as well. Homemade hair treatments that contain essential oils are used as alternatives to chemical-based products. They are cheaper and safer to use due to the therapeutic effects that they offer. Get manageable hair that you can style into any shape by using essential oils in hair products. Try this anti-hair loss treatment recipe. How to Make This Anti-Hair Loss Treatment Recipe Repair hair damage and prevent hair loss with this recipe. Make sure to use pure and quality essential oils that provide nourishment for hair. Here’s how you can make your own treatment recipe. Ingredients 2 tablespoons castor oil 1 tablespoon argan oil 2 tablespoons coconut oil Procedure Prepare a bowl of hot water. Mix all the oils in a smaller bowl. Place it in the large bowl of hot water and mix until the oils are well blended. Transfer to a clean amber-colored glass container. Application Apply the oil to hair from roots to tips. Make sure to massage the oil on the scalp. Leave it on for 30 minutes or overnight. Cover hair with a shower cap to prevent oil stains. Another optional step you can do is to wrap a damp warm towel around the shower cap. This helps the oils penetrate hair and scalp better. Remove after the towel gets cold. Rinse hair with a gentle cleanser and lukewarm water. How it Works The mixture of the three ingredients moisturizes hair and seals in the moisture to the strands. This moisture fills in the gap on the hair shaft to repair damages. This reduces risks of breakage. This 3-ingredient recipe unclogs hair follicles and soothes the scalp to prevent inflammation that can cause hair fall. Nutrients found in castor oil, argan oil, and coconut oil binds hair together and improves its resilience. Each essential oil in this homemade recipe is beneficial for hair growth. A blend of castor oil, argan oil, and coconut oil has healing effects goes to the root of hair loss. Use this treatment once or twice a week for healthier hair. Keep your tresses lustrous and shiny with this anti-hair loss treatment recipe!
Learn more
Your Guide to Using Essential Oils for Pets
Fall in love with essential oils even more as these products help you take better care of your pets. When essential oils become a regular part of your day, you expose your pets to its therapeutic effects. Aromatherapy with natural oils can make you and your furry friend relaxed. More than that, the right essential oils can improve the skin and coat condition of your companions. There are benefits in properly using essential oils on your pets. Whether it’s to soften their fur, relieve skin conditions, or for extra nourishment, these oils can make your pets healthier than ever. Discover more uses of essential oils and right ways to apply them. Should You Use Essential Oil on Your Pet? There are many advantages of using oils for your pets. The abundance of vitamins and minerals in natural oils makes them effective in addressing skin and health concerns. Other than softening your dog’s paws or strengthening the hooves of your horse, you can also use essential oils as a supplement. Essential oils are natural and made up of essential fatty acids that your pets need to maintain their health. They are safer and more effective compared to using chemically infused medicines. The oils are rich in substances that address the root of the problem. It is safe to use natural oil on your pet especially when your companions suffer from conditions that can be treated with oils. You get to avoid exposing your pets to harsh ingredients by using essential oils. If you need a natural remedy, essential oils are your go-to products. They are gentle when applied topically. Pets are sensitive to scents and substances that their body can absorb. Essential oils often have soothing scents that are mild for the senses of animals. They promote peace and relaxation, which are good for pets that are anxious and troubled. The versatility of oils is an advantage that can help you take better care of your pet. They are affordable as well and essential oils last for a long time. You can substitute essential oils with expensive products and get the same benefits, if not more. Discover more uses and benefits of oils for your pets. 5 Ways to Use Essential Oils for Your Pets Essential oils are a great help when you have a pet. There are gentle yet effective oils that improve the condition of your companion. Whether they are for topical application, ingestion, or aromatherapy, you can find oils that work wonders for your pet’s health. Here are the uses and benefits of essential oils for your pets. 1. Treats Skin Conditions Dogs and cats can suffer from common skin problems such as mange, fleas, ringworm, dandruff, allergies, and infections. There are oils that prevent and treat the symptoms of these skin concerns. There are essential oils with anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and moisturizing properties that work well when used to treat these conditions. Insect repellent oils prevent flea and tick from causing skin damage. Most of a dog or cat’s skin condition affects their coat as well. However, some oils are specifically applied to improve fur condition. Lavender oil works great when applied topically to their coat and skin. It has soothing and anti-inflammatory properties. However, it’s important to mix the oil with 2/3 or ¾ coconut oil and or other light carrier oils. 2. Improves Fur Condition If your pet tends to run wild and get dirty, you might be used to sticky, dirty, and tangled fur. It can cause discomfort for your pet. Essential oils detangle fur to prevent knots from forming. The smooth and silky texture of the fur can last up to a day. Your dog or cat might also experience hair loss in various areas of their body. Alopecia is a condition characterized by patches of furless skin, dandruff, dry skin, and flaking. The problem is not only about the patchiness of the fur. It can damage the skin as well and affect their immune system. Regular use of essential oils on the fur helps soothe alopecia and prevent hair loss. It strengthens hair and makes it softer to the touch as well. Oils such as Argan oil moisturize hair while nourishing the skin beneath. 3. Provides Extra Nourishment Food-grade oils provide extra nourishment for your pets. A few drops of oils nourish their body while bringing therapeutic effects that can improve their condition. You can use oils to improve their metabolism and alleviate symptoms of allergies. Omega fatty acids are good for dogs and they are abundant in essential oils. Look for food-grade oils that your pet can ingest. Avoid giving your cat oil to ingest unless advised by an expert. Coconut oil helps with metabolism of dogs. Small amounts are safe for cats. Virgin coconut oil is highly nourishing for your pet and it improves their coat as well. They make your pets more alert, active, and healthy. 4. Protects Pets from Flea and Tick Fleas and ticks are parasites that can cause more than itchiness to your pets. These insects can affect the health of your pet. To prevent these parasites from living in your pet’s fur, use insect repellent oils. They are safe to apply to your pet. Dilute them with water and spray on their fur before and after going outside. Eucalyptus, lemongrass, and lavender are good for dogs and cats. They repel ticks, fleas, and mosquitos. 5. Promotes Relaxation for Pets Nervous, excited, and troubled dogs may be hard to handle. Sometimes the trick is to wear them out until they ran out of energy. Other times, it might not work. You can diffuse soothing essential oils to help calm your pets. It works especially for nervous and troubled dogs. Some scents of oils ease the anxiety that a pet might feel and makes them more relaxed. Gentle and soothing scents such as frankincense, myrrh, and chamomile can ease nervousness and promote relaxation for pets. Safety Tips in Using Essential Oils on Pets Essential oils are healthy for your pets when used properly. Other users get worried that using essential oils may trigger sensitive reactions to pets. Dogs and cats benefit the most from essential oils, but there are restrictions on which type of oil you should use. Pets can react differently to various essential oils, so caution and proper usage should be observed. One of the precautionary measures that you should always practice is to avoid giving your pets essential oils for ingestion. Make sure that the oils are safe and nourishing when ingested. Some oils may contain substances that can cause metabolism problems for your pets. Food-grade oils are the only oils safe for your pet to ingest. To ensure their effective and safe effects, here are some safety tips you need to keep in mind when using essential oils for your pets: The quality of the oils you’re using is important. They can determine their effects on your pets. High-quality oils from reputed brands are safe and effective when used on pets. Citrus oils might be too strong for your cat's sense of smell. Avoid using these oils whether for ingestion, application, or aromatherapy. Avoid using oils that contain high phenols like oregano, peppermint, and clove. The livers of animals, especially cats, can’t filter out phenols. When applying oils topically, the size of your companion matters. The smaller your pet, the lesser the amount of oil that should be used. Dilute essential oils before using them. Make this the first step in using oils. Essential oils should be used in moderation too. Avoid using oils on sensitive parts of your pet such as eyes, mouth, nose, and ears. Don’t use food-grade or topical oils on your cats every day. There should be regular intervals in using essential oils for your cats. Hot essential oils are not recommended for use. These oils give a warming sensation when sniffed, applied, or ingested. Before using strong essential oils, even aromatic oils, you should consult experts and veterinarians. Avoid exposing your pet to harsh oils that can cause allergic or sensitive reactions. You can use oils on other pets such as birds, reptiles, fish, and other large animals. However, there are proper methods of applying oils on other types of pets. Observe your pets when you use essential oils to them. Take note of how they respond to the oils whether used aromatically, topically or ingested. You can mix essential oils in shampoos, ointments, conditioners, and sprays for pets. Make your pet’s life healthier and more fun. Essential oils improve the way you take care of your companion. Always keep your pet’s safety and happiness in mind. Use these tips and information to get the benefits of using essential oils without putting your pets at risk. When looking for essential oils to use topically or aromatically, pick high-quality products. Treat your pet to the health benefits of oils and let them feel your love!
Learn more
4 Hottest Eyebrow Trends You Need to Try Now
Eyebrows have magic – they can change the way you look with a little touch. The color, shape, and texture of your brows can either enhance or downplay the way your eyes look. The year of 2017 was full of surprising twists and weird tastes when it comes to eyebrow shapes. This year, we’re looking more into natural shapes and shades that suit your on-the-go makeup look. Less time doing makeup means more time for beauty sleep. Step up your brow game and look naturally gorgeous with these eyebrow trends. Know some tips on how to achieve these looks. Here are the top trends that will shape up 2018! Natural Arched Brows Makeup should be easy and fast while giving you full coverage. Shaping your eyes take too much time. One of the trends this 2018 is the naturally arched brows. To get this look, you just need to let your brows to grow until they become full-bodied. Natural growth of eyebrows including stray strands is in nowadays. Naturally arched brows follow the shape of hair growth. To achieve this eyebrow shape, avoid plucking or threading eyebrows every week. This may look messy but it’s important to trim your brows every two weeks or once a month. The natural shape of the brows often has soft arches that lose shape as you pluck or thread it. How to Get Natural Arched Brows: Here are simple steps to get naturally arched brows: Let eyebrows grow without trimming for at least 6 weeks. Trim the ends of strays to keep eyebrows in shape. Do not trim the edges of your brows. Use a mascara wand to comb eyebrows upwards. Do not brush the hair down. Brows that are brushed up give you a fresh look. Use a brow gel or a lip balm to hold the hair in place. Pro Tip: Use serums to thicken eyebrows. It’s important to visit professional salons as well and trim brows every two weeks. Avoid using fillers on eyebrows to maintain the natural look. Textured Brows Textured brows defy the norm of having smooth and full-bodied eyebrows. The texture of the eyebrows can be achieved by focusing on giving the strands depth without filling it up. Shading eyebrows can make it lose texture to give focus on its shape. What makes this trend unique is that you focus on giving your brows depth and dimension instead of shape. The trick is to stick to soft arches that you can trim easily. It prevents eyebrows from looking too heavy. How to Get Natural Textured Brows Here are the steps to get textured brows: Trim the ends of strands to keep eyebrows looking neat. Use an oil or serum before shower. Brush eyebrows with mascara wand following the direction of hair growth. Brush hair in sections with upward motions, enough to lift up the strands. Use a little amount of gel liner and brush over brows. Pro Tip: Not everyone is lucky enough to keep their eyebrows looking thick and healthy. To achieve a full-bodied shape without applying liners, use essential oils or eyebrow serums that promote the growth of thick and healthy hair on brows. Do this every night. It helps prevent thinning as well. Bold Eyebrows Bold and full eyebrows do not look as natural as the first two. However, instead of altering the shape of your eyebrows, what you need here is to make it attention-grabbing. Do this by making your eyebrows look thick instead of shaping it. Bold eyebrows make you look fierce. It frames the eyes well and makes good use of your forehead. You might notice that when you go by this style, people are more inclined to look you in the eyes! How to Get Bold Eyebrows Try this eyebrow style for an easy day-to-day makeup look! Pluck stray strands around the eyebrow area. Do not trim the edges of hair. Use a serum or oil to thicken the eyebrows. Let dry. Use a brow liner or an eyebrow pencil and fill up the area covered by eyebrows. Choose a shade darker than your hair type to give it emphasis. Make your eyebrows bolder by using a concealer or highlighter. Apply at the edges of your eyebrows. Pro Tip: Always choose a shade darker than the color of your hair. This gives you bolder brows that frame the eyes. Darker shade helps emphasize your forehead too. This eyebrow style is the best choice if you’re going for a fresh and glowing look. Avoid using this style together with dark eyeshadows. Fishtail Brows Here’s a more revolutionary eyebrow look that you need to try as well. Compared to barbed eyebrows, this is a downgrade but it has that fierce yet elegant look to it. This eyebrow trend puts a twist to slit eyebrows. The tail of the slit eyebrow lifts up instead of following the shape of the eyebrows. It is one of the first eyebrow trends in 2018 that is still going strong. It is easy to do without actually shaving a slit on your eyebrows. How to Get Fishtail Brows Learn how to do fishtail brows easily with these steps! Apply concealer to clean eyebrows and surrounding area of the face. Make sure not to use too much to make it feel cakey. Apply brow liner and brush eyebrows to make it look even. Reapply concealer on surrounding area of the brows and in the area that you want to split your eyebrows. Draw the lifting tail of the inner eyebrows. Use highlighter to even out the color of the skin. Pro Tip: Use a thin brush when applying the concealer to the area of the split in the eyebrows. It’s important to only use dabbing motions. Putting pressure on the brush can mix the concealer and the brow liner, which gives you a greyish color. Shape your eyebrows using a liner to avoid a mess. Eyebrow styles are easy to do yet they give you the power to change how you look and feel about yourself. These trends just show that we have a growing appreciation for natural beauty and progressive fashion styles at the same time. Just make sure that to draw even brows that frame your eyes well!
Learn more
Moisturize Kinky Hair Like a Boss with Tips from Lupita Nyong'o
If you’ve watched the record-breaking Black Panther, then you’ve probably fawned over the gorgeous hairstyles of the cast. Wakanda presents a visual power of women and men rocking African hairstyles. Dreadlocks, Bantu-style knots, twist outs – all these hairstyles are an ode to natural kinky hair. Growing out your natural hair is never an easy task, but the pride and confidence that it gives you are unmeasurable. More and more women are appreciating the beauty of having kinky hair – from its gravity-defying volume to the curls and kinks that make it unique. If you have natural hair that tends to get dry and frizzy, Lupita Nyong’o, Black Panther’s Nakia, has some tips to share. 5 Products to Maintain Natural Kinky Hair Natural kinky hair is prone to drying, which makes it rough to the touch. To prevent breakage and split ends, you need to use the right products that provide hydration and moisture. Here are 5 products you need to include in your hair care routine: 1. Sulfate-Free Shampoo Sulfate is the enemy of kinky hair. Shampoos that have sulfate cleanse hair effectively but tend to remove the necessary moisture that keeps it soft. When cleansing kinky hair, it’s important to preserve the natural oils of hair. When you’re looking for shampoos to use, look for products that do not contain sulfate. Cowashing is another method recommended for kinky hair. It is the practice of using conditioners to wash hair. Since conditioner contains a small amount of surfactant, it helps remove the dirt from hair while providing moisture. 2. Hydrating Conditioner A hydrating conditioner does more than seal in the moisture on hair. It strengthens hair by treating hair damage. Hydrating conditioners ensure that moisture reaches into the shaft to improve its volume. 3. Essential Oils Essential oils are great for kinky hair. They are rich in essential fatty acids and nutrients that make hair shiny, soft, and smooth. They improve hair strength to prevent breakage and split ends. Essential oils work as conditioners, styling agents, and deep conditioning treatments that make kinky hair more fluffy. 4. Heavy Moisturizers When you go outside and expose your hair to sun, it tends to get dry and rough. The same thing happens during winter where moisture evaporates fast. To prevent dry and rough hair, use heavy moisturizers that you can apply all throughout the day. Look for creams that absorb fast into the strands without leaving an oily residue. You can use moisturizers that work as heat protectant products when using a hair dryer as well. 5. Mousse If you’re going to style your hair, skip the gels and hairsprays. Instead, use a mouse that moisturizes hair while giving it volume. It holds the shape of hair and gives it definition. Other styling products can dry hair or make it feel oily. Mousse has a light yet highly moisturizing formula that is perfect for kinky hair. When choosing which type of product to use, make sure to know every ingredient in the formulas. Look for nourishing oils, natural butter, and hydrating agents that deliver moisture where hair needs it most. L.O.C Method is the Key to Soften Natural Hair Liquid Oil Cream Method or the L.O.C method is a practice where you keep hair soft and moisturized. Lupita Nyong’o promises that this method kept her hair looking elegant and neat even when it got long. This method consists of three products; a water-based product, hydrating oil, and a cream. This is how to do the L.O.C method: 1. Apply Water-Based Liquid The L in L.O.C method stands for liquid, which should be a product that is very hydrating on hair. You can also just use water. After cleansing hair, the liquid or the water-based product is sprayed on hair. Massage it from roots to tips without disturbing the natural kinks of the hair. 2. Seal in Moisture with Oil The oil that you apply to hair seals in the moisture that prevents the water content from evaporating. It improves the ability of the hair to retain moisture as well. Since water and oil don’t mix, using the heavier product after the liquid stops the moisture from escaping. Light oils that absorb quickly through hair strands are olive oil, coconut oil, and Argan oil. 3. Fortifying Hair Cuticles with Cream Creams strengthen the hold of hair on moisture. It helps lock the moisture on hair shaft while gluing the cuticles together. This protects hair from getting brittle and developing split ends. Creams give definition to the curls of kinky hair too. It holds the shape and makes it more manageable. Use styling creams to handle your kinky hair easier. Using this method daily helps you avoid issues such as overly dry and static hair. These methods are enough to transform hair into its natural, beautiful shape. Natural Butters for Shiny Kinky Hair Sometimes, moisturizers don’t seem enough to prevent dry and rough kinky hair. For Lupita, Shea butter holds the promise of shiny and stylish kinky hair. Shea butter is one of the heaviest products that work to prevent moisture from escaping hair. While applying pure shea butter on hair doesn’t seem like a good idea for straight hair, it’s a trick that makes kinky hair soft yet resilient against damage. The secret lies in the butter’s ability to work as a barrier that locks in the water on hair. When you use it on the scalp, it prevents and treats concerns such as dandruff. It reduces issues of flaking and itchiness as well. Shea butter is highly moisturizing but does not weigh heavily on hair. This helps kinky hair keep its volumized and fluffy texture. Other types of natural butter include coconut oil, sweet almond butter, mango butter, and cocoa butter. Bring out the best in your hair with these methods that ensure your hair looks fabulous all day long. Growing natural hair will make you feel proud and confident in its unique style. Free your hair from products that restrain its natural and beautiful form!
Learn more
4 Routines for Easy and Effective Skin Care
Running late for work? Don’t fret, we’ve got the answer that gets you to the office in time without neglecting your skin! Here, we break down the various steps that you can do to fit skin care into your schedule. No matter how busy you are, you will always have time for skin care. People who have a busy schedule tend to overlook skin care. Whether it’s an extensive one or just a basic routine, making time for proper skin care is important. You don’t need two hours or three hours to take care of your skin. Whether you only have an hour, 30 minutes, 10 minutes, or just five minutes, we’ve got you covered! Why You Should Make Time for Skin Care Remember that skin care is not a luxury but part of your hygiene. In fact, taking care of the skin should be a priority. Skin is the largest organ in your body and plays an important role in your health. It regulates your temperature and protects the body from pollution and damaging elements found in the environment. Most of all, your skin’s health determines how you look. Dry and damaged skin can make you look older whereas a radiant and clear skin makes you look younger. The products that you use in skin care maintain the health and youthfulness of your skin. What’s more, if you have a busy schedule, you’re probably under a lot of stress and might not even have enough sleep. The worst enemy of skin is stress and lack of sleep. Even if you are a busy bee, save some room for skin care. This might sound ironic, but busy women can save time by having a proper skin care. This is because a healthy and glowing skin does not need much makeup. Wake up in the morning looking ready for a busy day ahead! Skin care can have simple steps and multi-use products that you can fit into your schedule. Follow the proper order of application to prevent the products from blocking the absorption of other formulas. Here, we list the methods that you can do in an allotted time frame. Build a routine that covers the basics of skin care and provides extra benefits. 5-Minute Skin Care Got five minutes before you leave? Here’s a quick and easy skin care routine for you. These are the basic methods in skin care. Make sure to do these steps every morning. Cleanse – Cleanse your face while you’re in the shower or after waking up. Avoid using soap to wash your face. Look for some gentle water-based cleanser. Cleansing only takes a minute or less. The recommended time to massage the cleanser on the face is 30-45 seconds. Do this while you’re letting the conditioner set in your hair, which usually takes 2-3 minutes. Tone – After shower, tone the skin. You can do this in two ways. The first is to use a cotton ball and put a few drops of toner in it. Massage face in circular motions. Another way to do this is to put the toner in a spray bottle. Spray it on your face making sure to give it full coverage. Pat skin gently to help the toner absorb through the skin. Protect – Lotions or moisturizers? You can skip them! Just apply a moisturizing sunscreen all over the body. This works two ways – conditioning skin for long-lasting moisture and providing protection against sun damage! Let it set in before you leave. Do these steps at night before sleeping except applying the sunscreen. All these steps just take five minutes to complete! 15-Minute Skin Care Fifteen minutes is enough time to cover the basic skin care needs and provide extra nourishment or protection. Aside from the basics, here are additional steps you can do: Morning Routine: Cleanse - Wash skin with a cleanser suitable for your skin type. Tone - Apply a toner to restore the pH balance of the skin. Apply Sunscreen - Apply sunscreen to shield skin from sun damage. Tone, & Apply Sunscreen – These are the basic steps of skin care. Serum/Essence – Choose between serum and essence. If you have a skin concern you want to treat, serum is best for you. For dry and dull skin, use an essence! Apply this to your face and neck after using the toner and before using a sunscreen. Primer – You can use a primer on the face without applying makeup. It gives your skin a glowing look and evens out your skin tone. Do this after applying sunscreen. Night Routine: Cleanse - Wash skin with a cleanser suitable for your skin type. Tone - Apply a toner to restore the pH balance of the skin. Moisturize - Restore the moisture to the skin using a product suitable for your skin type. Oil Cleanse/Makeup Removal – If you use a primer or did a full makeup on your face, cleanse your face with oil. You can also just use makeup remover wipes. Do this before using a water-based cleanser. Anti-Aging Cream – During sleep, the body repairs itself faster. This includes skin elasticity and texture. An anti-aging cream improves the ability of skin to promote skin cell renewal. Wake up to a fresh and glowing face in the morning. Apply the cream before the moisturizer. For the night routine, cleanse face first with oil before using a water-based cleanser. Apply a toner then follow up with the serum. The anti-aging face cream goes first before the moisturizer. 30-Minute Skin Care Have 30 minutes to spare? Make the best out of it by following these skin care steps. Nourish your skin and address specific skin care needs. Morning Routine: Your morning routine consists of these steps. Cleanse - Wash skin with a cleanser suitable for your skin type. Tone - Apply a toner to restore the pH balance of the skin. Apply Sunscreen - Apply sunscreen to shield skin from sun damage. Exfoliate – After washing with a water-based cleanser, use an exfoliating scrub on the face. Use gentle motions on the face and all over the body. Massage the skin using circular motions. Follow up with a toner. Serum/Essence – Apply the essence to face after the toner sets in. Massage face until the serum is fully absorbed. Use it on the neck and upper chest area. Eye Roller – Use an eye roller on the under-eye area for a minute or two. This helps reduce the appearance of dark bags. Do this after applying the serum. Primer – Always let the sunscreen set on skin before applying a primer. Face Mist – Use a face mist after the primer for extra moisture. Night Routine: Here are the steps for night skin care routine. Cleanse - Cleanse skin using a gentle oil and follow up with a water-based cleanser. Tone - Apply a toner to restore the pH balance of the skin. Moisturize - Restore the moisture to the skin using a product suitable for your skin type. Follow up with a water-based cleanser. There are steps to do before toning or moisturizing skin. Exfoliate – Remember to only exfoliate twice a week. Do this only if you haven’t exfoliated in the morning or the day before. Follow up with a toner. Serum/Essence – You can use one or two serums with different uses. For example, you can use a retinol serum and a hydrating serum. Let the products set in before applying the next product. Treatment Products – If you have certain skin concerns such as acne, wrinkles, or dark spots, apply the treatment products at night after using a serum. Eye Crème – To prevent dark bags under the eyes, use an eye cream. It helps reduce the appearance of crow’s feet too. Face Oil – An oil cleanser is different from a face oil. This has a light texture that absorbs well into the skin. You can use it to give skin extra hydration and to retain its youthfulness. Let skin dry after application before using moisturizer. 60-Minute Skin Care On days that you can spend an hour in the morning or at night, why not treat yourself to a soothing and luxurious skin care? Aside from the steps mentioned above, here are other things that you can do. Morning Routine: Take a soothing and moisturizing warm bath in the morning instead of a hot or cold shower. This helps condition the skin and gradually awaken your senses. Use bath bomb, bath salt, or essential oils for a better experience. Do this for a maximum of 20 minutes before doing the rest of your skin care routine. Women can get an extra hour without waking up early in the morning. Skip the makeup and instead stick to lip balms and primers. A healthy skin care gives you a radiant bare face. Night Routine: For your night routine, apply a face mask. You can use a moisturizing face mask after exfoliating the skin. Detoxifying mud masks are great too! They provide minerals that revive the skin. Leave the face mask for an average of 20 minutes before applying a toner. You can also take a warm bath at night and do the face mask application in the morning. Pro Tip: For less time you need to spend on skin care, look for multitasking products that have two or more benefits for your skin. Your moisturizer that contains SPF doubles as a sunscreen. Serums and moisturizers also work as primers, which you can apply before doing your makeup. Don’t let your stress or tiredness show on your face. These easy routines give you enough time to provide the care your skin needs. Whether you only have five minutes to spare, it’s not a reason to skip even the most basic skin care! There are always methods you can squeeze in to fit into your schedule. Try these routines for yourself and keep your skin looking fresh and radiant even without makeup!
Learn more