Discover Green Tea therapies for healthy hair.

 

 The holidays are here again! 😃😃😃😊😊 I hope you are having great time with the ones you loves. I am sure having a Wow time with family 😄 So I decided to put up a post now that have some free time.

Have you ever used tea on your hair? Some might think l mean using tea made of bournvita and milk. No. l mean tea made from infused harvested tea leaves or bagged tea. lt is common here to find tea in the  bagged form (eg Lipton tea)  than in leaves or powder in the grocery shops. There are different kinds of tea but our focus in this post will be on green tea and how you can use it on your hair.

Green tea is effective in reducing hair loss and promoting hair growth. How?

Green tea  is rich in vitamins (A,C, E) and minerals that strengthen hair follicles.

Green tea contains antioxidants in form of catechins and its derivatives with epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) constituting a greater part.EGCG relaxes the arteries (blood vessels), improving blood circulation in the micro cappillaries to hair folicles and acts as protection from harmful UV rays

Green tea contains 5-alpha-reductase that blocks DHT (dihydrotestosterone), that is responsible for causing baldness 😀 thereby fighting baldness.

Green tea proves to be an excellent scalp cleanser thereby preventing scalp infections like dandruff.

So the question now is, how can you incorporate green tea in your hair care regime?

Hair rinse
Simply brew about 2 -3 tea bags in a cup of boiled water for about 5 minutes. Take out the tea bags, allow to cool. lf you are using green tea leaves, you might have to leave it in the boiled water a longer time to infuse.
Next, gradually pour it over your hair and massage your scalp as you do. Cover your hair and rest for about 20 minutes. Then rinse it out with cool water and then style on damp hair.

Hair protein treatment.
Beat an egg into 2tbsp of well grounded green tea powder. Apply it over and leave it on for about an hour. Then rinse it out well with cool water. this hair treatment might leave particles of the green tea in your hair. But they do come off  from hair with time. So you do not need to worry about trying this hair treatment.


Mix with oils
Mix green tea powder with a carrier oil like coconut oil, olive oil or jojoba oil to a desired consistency. Leave it in for at least 24 hours to infuse well into the oil. Next sieve on a clean light cloth. A cotton hankerchief will do. This is a bit messy. You do not need to bother washing the oils of your hands. Just rub it off on your hair. Apply the infused oil over your hair from hair tips  to scalp. Gently massaging your scalp. Cover your hair and rest for about 1hour. Then rinse it off. This can serve as rinse out conditioner.

For maximum benefits, you need to use pure green tea. Over processed green tea with additives might have lost some of its nutrients. I found out that pure green tea does not taste all that great. So that might be the reason some people prefer drinking brewed green tea bags that have additives.

You can get green tea brands at grocery shops/supermarket in and around town/cities here in nigeria. To isolate a pure green tea brand, examine the content on the ingredient list before you buy. Some green tea brands contain ginseng, honey, lemon, ginger and more. You can shop varieties here

l isolated some good green tea brands you can shop online.

Julestherapy -Green tea extract
Puritan's Pride - Green tea leaves
Eco Essence Organics Green tea extract


lf you are not the DIY kind of person 😆, you can get good hair products that contain green tea. Here are some of them

Revlon- Green tea conditioner

Aphogee keratin & Green tea shampoo

Note: For extreme cases of progressive hair loss, it is advisable to see a health specialist / trichologist.
👩

You might also like
* DIY Skin care ingredients/recipes for a girl on budget
* DIY 100% natural homemade body wash
* Coily Crown Baobab Mousse and Shampoo- Product Review

Read More

DIY skin care ingredients/recipes for a girl on budget.

Hope everyone is fine? I care to ask because you and I know that this present economy is not smiling. So babes are cutting their coat according to their material. Lols. Lets get to business.

It has not been easy to access my dreamed magnifique natural ingredients like the rose hip oil and co, around me here in Port harcourt unless I have to purchase and get them delivered to me from Lagos. And who is ready to pay for the extra charges? I am among the least. Smh!

For the meantime, I had to make the best use of what I can lay my hands on to keep up with my skin care routine. This recipes have been effective and economical.

Recipes on a budget.

Honey + Oatmeal + Lemon juice
This recipe is simply everything. The oatmeal ( I mean Quaker oats) acts as a mild exfoliate. The honey is an excellent moisturizer, soothing and healing. The lemon juice is antiseptic, clearing the pores and lightening dark spots. After scrubbing face for 5 minutes, I leave it on for about 30 minutes before washing off. This scrub leave my face soft, hydrated and clear of acne till the next 2-3 days. My girlfriend can always tell whenever I do a scrub the night before.

Honey + Oatmeal + water
Each time I run out of lemon juice, I find myself using this recipe, substituting the lemon juice with water. They say, ‘half a loaf is better than nothing'. Exfoliation is not an option. It is a must for good skin.

Honey + Lemon juice
For a quickie, I cut out a lemon. Place a few drops of honey on half and scrub face gently in circles. The pulp mildly sloughs off the dead skin cells, exposing fresher smooth skin.

Honey + Turmeric
This recipe is more of a mask recipe and less of a scrub. It nourishes and heals the skin, smoothens it to a glow and gives it that plump look.

These are tried and true DIY recipes for a girl with oily, sensitive, acne prone skin.

What are your tried and true recipes on budget?

You may also like
* DIY homemade body wash - 100% natural
* Onions juice for healthy and fast healthy growth
* How to properly take care of your hair under protective styles.

Read More

ALL ABOUT EYEBAGS AND PUFFY EYES #2

Am happy you enjoyed reading the #1 of this subject. Thanks for the DMs. If you have not read it, please click here to read.

What can be done to prevent and reduce eye bags/puffy eyes?

* Have adequate night rest. 7 to 8 hours of sleep is enough because sometimes oversleeping can also give you puffy eyes.

* Cut down your intake of foods and beverages that encourage fluid retention eg. Alcohol, coffee white sugar, fried foods, white flour, salt foods etc.

* If you work long hours before the computer screen, get an anti-reflex prescription glasses from an eye care professional for protection. Following the 20-20-20 rule can be helpful. The 20-20-20 rule means, for every 20 minutes of work before the computer screen look away at a distance of 20 feet for 20 seconds.

* Avoid allergens. If you identify any thing you are allergic to, try to stay away from it to prevent body sensitivity reactions.

* Drink enough clean water each day for general good health and hydration. The more hydrated, the better.

* Follow all occupational safety rules. If in the course, you experience any negative eye effect like eye swelling, see an eye care professional and check protective equipments for faults. There might be need for change or upgrade to adequately protect the worker.

* If you are in the habit of squinting, see an eye care professional for examination to correcf any refractive error that strains the eye area. Constant squinting can cause early wrinkling of eye area and other symptoms like puffy eyes.

*  Eye creams can be helpful too. They are formulated specially for the eye area and to slow aging in the peri-orbital areas.

Examples of eye creams that have proven to be effective with regular application.

Oriflame Collagen wrinkle correcting eye cream.
It is made to reduce wrinkles, eye puffiness and dark circles. It improves microcirculation around the eyes and the skin around eye becomes smoother and firmer.

Oriflame seeing is believing eye cream
It is formulated to reduce puffiness, dark circles and refreshes eye area.


* Try cold compresses over the eye for 20 minutes or more. The cold compress act as vaso-constrictor to reduce the fluid beneath the eyelids. For a cold compress you can use cotton pads soaked in cold water or cold milk ; chilled sliced potato; chilled tea bags. Place it over eye for about 20 minutes. You will notice temporary reduction in eye bags.

* Natural butters and oils are loaded with vitamins, minerals and anti-aging components. Regular use of them for the skin can promote elasticity, tightening of skin generally and around the eye, minimizing lines and wrinkles. Examples include sheabutter, cocoa butter, olive oil, coconut oil, baobab oil etc.


* For the ladies, you can apply makeup and concealer to disguise the pronounced eye bags for a momentary gorgeous look. Be gentle anytime you are working on the skin around the eye.


To round up this subject, I believe proper general health care and and a good inner personality is more attractive. This should be priority!

Did this article prove helpful? I will like to know.

You might also like
* An amazing DIY teeth whitener you need to try
* Makeup hygiene #2
* Raw african black soap

Read More

ALL ABOUT EYEBAGS AND PUFFY EYES #1

The struggle with eye bags and puffy eyes is real. When you have tried your best to hide them, they sit out steering in the open and can be annoying at times. As a doctor of optometry, this subject is of interest to me too. I wouldn't bore you with medical terminologies. I will put it out very simple.

The skin around the eye is the thinnest of the whole body and most fragile and among the first to show signs of aging.

Early morning eye bags
When asleep, the body's circulatory system moves slowly, leaving excess fluid beneath the eyes. Early morning bags are normal. They disappear gradually during the day. If the eye bags persist throughout the day, then it is an indicator that your body needs more rest.

Genetics
Eyebags /Puffy eyes can also be inherited. Personally, I got mine from my mom. Mom and her siblings got theirs  from their mom, my granny. So eye bags do run in family and there is little or nothing you can do to eliminate them.


Aging eyebags
Eyebags that come with aging are caused by weakening of the tissues and muscles supporting the eyelids. Consequently, it falls forward to form eye bags as one ages.


Work Hazards
People who sit very long hours before computer screens without protection do experience what is called computer vision syndrome (CVS). CVS symptoms include eye fatigue, heavy eyes, eye pain, itching , edema (puffy eyes) and more.
Certain jobs like welding, expose the eyes to harmful rays. Therefore its important
that workers in that environment follow safety procedures and guidelines.

Food
Certain foods encourage fluid retention in the body like salty foods, processed foods containing sodium and food loaded with carbohydrates. Some people identify jollof rice for dinner as what gives them early morning puffy eyes.

Other factors
Other factors that can cause puffy eyes include smoking, alcohol consumption, hormone level changes, change in weather, allergens, certain medications, sinus infections, kidney or liver problems etc.

When does an eye bag become a serious cause for concern?
When they persist for days and/or get worse, it can be a sign of a serious underlying health problem.
When eye bags/puffy eyes are accompanied by itching and redness, see your eye care professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Continued on next post.....


You might also like
* An amazing DIY teeth whitener you need to try.
* How to get naturally luscious lips.
* Makeup hygiene - A must-read for everyone who wears makeup

Read More

DIY - Make your own Aloe vera Gel /Juice

       I remember there was a time, some few years back, most people in this part of the world were so crazy about Aloe vera. It was like missing out on a miracle healing drug if you do not have it planted close to you at home. I guess that was the period my Anty planted the one at home.

   In fact every one who have experienced aloe vera  goodness is still enthusiastic about it. That is also why there are  various brand aloe vera beauty products for skin, hair even health.
 
   If you are interested in making your own aloe vera homemade products like in  hair spray, conditioner, shampoo, face mask etc, then you need aloe vera gel/juice. Will you prefer to buy aloe vera juice or gel or make yours? If you prefer to get aloe vera gel fresh and do not know how to go about it,  then i will like show you how I make my own aloe vera gel/juice.

Things you need
Sharp knife or vegetable peeler
Teaspoon
Clean board.

How to do It
Wash the aloe vera leaf.
Wash your hand with soap and rinse well.
Place the leaf on a clean board.
Holding one end of the aloe leaf use the sharp knife to cut out the edges and the the top green layer of the leaf showing the gel.
With teaspoon, scoop out the gel carefully so as not to add the yellow part.
Here is your extracted aloe vera gel.

   To make it into juice, blend the gel in a blender to a smooth paste. The juice will be foaming on top. Leave to rest.

Your aloe vera gel/ juice is ready for use!

If you are using it for hair, then you need to pour into a strainer and squeeze out only the juice for use, leaving the bits in the strainer. Panty hose or wig cap can serve as strainer.

   If you do not have aloe vera plant very close to you and you happen to stumble on it somewhere and you harvested so many leaves at once. You wish you could use it fresh for a while, extract the gel , store it in a clean glass container and cover and keep it in the refrigerator for a week or so.

   To make it last longer add lemon juice to it (the vitamin C into the juice act as a natural preservative) , then pour it onto ice tray or bags and keep
 it freezes in the freezer to last for couple of months. But if in the course of preservation it becomes rancid or smells badly , then discard it.

Note: Make sure the yellow sap is removed completely. The yellow sap is said to contain toxins and laxatives such as a loin and aloe-emodin that can irritate the skin and cause allergic reactions. You should carry out a patch test like, on the inside of your elbow before use to be sure your skin won't react to it.

I did a patch test for 3days. Result: No skin reactions. So am free!

This article is just for informational purposes. Seek the opinion of your doctor before use especially of you are latex-intolerant .


Hope this article was helpful?


You might also be interested in
#Glow with pride!
#An amazing DIY teeth whitener you need to try.

Read More

Raw African Black Soap

   In a conversation with my girlfriend, I wanted to know the secret to her smoother skin lately. She kept pulling my legs that his guy in overseas sent skin products and that was what she used. She later opened up. Guess what ? It  is Raw African black soap .
 
    The raw african black soap comes in less black , brown shades, maybe that's why I prefer to call it native soap rather than black soap. Growing up in west African countries exposed me to various names of the black soap like 'Lagos adi' by the Éwé in Togo and the Volta region of Ghana, 'Alata Samina' / 'Anago Samina' by the Akan who speak Twi dialect in Ghana and 'Ose Dudu' by the Yorubas in Nigeria.

     From what i read about the origin of the black soap, i found out that it originated from the western part of Nigeria which is dominated by the yorubas. So I am not surprised  that the various names when translated informs us of the roots of the soap. For example, 'Lagos adi' means Lagos soap and 'Anago Samina' means Yoruba soap.

  About the black soap
     Black soap is made from roasted plantain skins, palm oil cocoa pod with additions like coconut oil, shea buttter, palm leaves ashes, or honey, did I hear, argan oil, carrot oil, snail lime? ...
      The black soap is so rich in natural ingredients that most people who use it call it the wonder soap. It is a deep cleansing soap, effective exfoliator,  dark spots fader, skin toner, acne and skin disease eliminator and anti-aging special.

       The black soap is worth incorporating into my skin care regimen. I am aware all the while that is 100% natural and wonderful but I've been reluctant to use it. I don't just know why. Though I am currently using three different organic soaps i got from my travel during the December/January holidays. l love to buy good organic skin products anytime i come across a good one and enough that could last for several months. I blame this psychological effect on my longtime struggle with my imperfect skin.

         My memories of the feel of the 'Lagos adi' on my skin as a kid is vague. This time I will be using it and will share my experience about it with you and more on another post.

I will love to hear from you too.

      Do you use the african black soap? Can you inspire me and others with your experience in the comment box below?



Read also

# Body scrub that leaves your skin smooth and glowy.
# An amazing DIY teeth whitener you need to try

Read More

Makeup Hygiene - A must-read for everyone who wears makeup!!

   As long as you wear makeup, you must take makeup hygiene seriously. I find it shocking when I hear or see how ladies handle their makeup products. Quite embarrassing to share. So I am not gisting that part ohh.

   From interviews and discussions, i found out that the reason is more about not being informed and it-does-not-really-matter attitude. No matter what the reason might be your makeup will be making your skin down instead of making you up.

   Are your already having reoccurring breakouts, pimples or acne each time you makeup, aside from the fact that you might be allergic to your makeup, makeup hygiene is something you should reconsider.

   Save this post and check it up anytime you need some reminders.

Makeup Hygiene 101- A general overview

1* Store makeup products in a cool, dry place. Do not keep your makeup products in humid/damp areas like your bathroom or in hot places like by Windows, in cars under the sun. This also implies that you do purchase your makeup products in stores where the heat of the day is minimal and does not beat the products.

2* Make sure to close your makeup containers tightly after each use and when not using it.

3* Keep your makeup tools clean. A detailed writeup on this how to keep your makeup tools clean will be next on this series. So stay tuned.

4* Remember to wash your hands and/or sanitize your hands  before you make up.

5* Do not forget to makeup on a clean face. So clean your face off sweat and dirt and then start your makeup for the day.

6* Clean your makeup cases and bags frequently and when necessary. They accumulate dirt, makeup products and bacteria overtime.

7* Discard makeup products if it smells badly, has water on top, changes color or loses its consistency or becomes hard and difficult to apply.

8* Avoid testers in makeup stores. They accumulate various kinds of  microbes/bacteria from hundreds of people. If you have to, then do so in stores that use disposable applicators and also disinfect their testers. This also means you should not share makeup products even with your sisters without cleaning it in between.

9* Never add saliva or water to makeup products. Eg. Mascara, Eyepencils. Etc

10* Double dipping is another aspect in makeup that is most times overlooked. Instead of double dipping, use spatulas to scoop products from original containers and place on clean pallets to be uses. You should be more concerned if you are working with more than one client.


Reason why makeup hygiene is a MUST

Once makeup products are opened, they become susceptible to germs and bacteria which breeds and builds u. These microbes get transferred to our skin and cause skin problems like acne, pimples, dark spots and infections like eczema and others.

Next on this series, is how to properly keep makeup applicators/products clean Makeup Hygiene #2 .

If you have questions or comments, it is welcomed. Do so in the box below.


Read also
# How to use coconut oil on face
# Glow with pride!!!

Read More

DIY - These hair masks came to my rescue!!

   I was absolutely amazed at the quick results i had using these hair mask therapy. I guess i will have to tell you all about the story after introducing you to the hair masks. Its easy to make and with affordable natural kitchen ingredients.

1. Egg Hair Mask

Recipe
1 egg white
1 tbsp Olive Oil
1 tsp honey
1 tsp coconut oil

How to use it

First shampoo your hair and rinse out shampoo with cool water.
Mix all the above ingredients together well.
Apply the mixture to your hair and scalp carefully.
Cover hair with shower cap for 1hr or more.
Rinse  hair thoroughly with water and squeeze out dripping water.
Take another small amount of coconut oil and moisturize into scalp and hair.
Air dry or tie hair with a cloth until it dries or style it and leave to dry.

2. Coconut oil Hair Mask

Recipe
Coconut oil
Olive Oil
Shea butter (melted)

Procedure

Massage your hair with the sheabutter and leave it on overnight.
Shampoo your hair the next day.
Mix the remaining ingredients together and apply to your hair and scalp.
Cover hair with shower cap and leave for about 1hr.
Then wash off hair with cool water.
Squeeze out excess water.
Moisturize hair with coconut oil.
Air dry or tie hair with a T-shirt, satin pillow case or style on damp hair.


How often can you mask hair?
Once a week or twice a week depending on the extent of hair damage.

Note: Keep hair moisturized in between the mask.

About the story
In the first few years I left home to tertiary institution, I got so busy and stressed  out often with academic life. I paid no proper attention to hair until I left with dry, dull colored scanty hair. The worst awakening was a big hair fall at the center back part of my hair that looked like an empty space of dry land in a bush. I felt disappointed in the fact that I couldnt take care of my hair well myself. I worried about how Mom will feel about this when i return home after school sessions.

  Then I remembered that natural hair therapy does work wonders. So i started natural hair therapy which includes the above mentioned hair mask. I was surprised how fast my hair got restored within a few months.

  I promised to be more careful from then on. Here is a picture of what my hair looks like after masking with coconut oil mask, then twist rolled, and allowed to dry overnight for heatless curls.

Do you have hair tips you will like to share with us. Please comment in the box below.

Read More

Beauty DIY - How Do You Get Rid of Your Acne?

Acne and pimples are pains in the ass. They keep popping up unexpectedly and make you feel you have no control over them. So annoying.
  Are you spending your small fortune on luxury products to fight acne? You really do not need to. Right in your kitchen are recipes that can clear your acne naturally and they are easy to make and not time consuming.
  I wish i knew about this recipes some years ago. Anyway, better late than never.

The key ingredients in the recipes are Honey, Lemon juice and Egg white.

What are the benefits of these ingredients?

Honey
Honey has antiseptic, antibacterial and antiinflammatory properties. It also has antioxidants that fight off free radicals which causes aging. Honey keeps the skin hydrated and moisturized.

Lemon Juice
Lemon juice is known to be a great astringent that kills acne-causing bacteria. It also acts as skin toner, reduces discolorations from blemishes and acne scars. Its a natural skin lightener.

Egg white
Egg white is great for skin tightening to help reduce large pores, where acne causing bacteria breeds. It also repairs skin tissues and reduce wrinkles.

Here are the recipes:

No.1 Lemon-Honey facial scrub

Ingredients
Lemon (you can choose to chill it a bit).
1tsp honey

Directions
Cut the lemons into half.
Drop the honey on the halt-cut lemon.
Rub the lemon and honey on your face in circular motion avoiding the ey area. You can rub over lips too.
Leave it on for 10 minutes.
Wash off with cool water and pat dry.

*This scrub is top on the list of scrubs effective against acne. Use it often and your acne, pimple and dark spots will disappear.


No.2 Egg White Face Tightening Mask

Ingredients
1 Egg white
1tsp lemon juice
1tsp honey

Directions
Mix the egg white with the lemon juice well.
Add the honey and mix thoroughly.
Apply the mixture on the face from the chin upward to the cheek and forehead avoiding the eye area and mouth. You can protect your hairline too.
Then relax for 15 minutes or more to allow the mixture to dry.
Gently wash off with lukewarm water. All the particles still come off gradually so be gentle to your skin.
Pat dry.

These mask will leave your face smooth and glowy.

How often can you use this?
Once or twice a week.

Note: Cleanse your face first to remove the sweat, dirt and grime before using the scrub and mask.

For me
Once in a week, I do the lemon-honey facial scrub after cleansing my face with coconut oil, unless am trying out something else new. Depending on how I feel, I do the egg-white masking immediately after the scrub or the next night.  I feel good when I see good results. I can wear my skin comfortably nowadays to work from Monday to Friday without makeup. Its like a miracle.. People who know me few years back do commend my new improved look.

Extra
Resist the temptation to touch your face frequently because the palm always picks up a lot of dirt and microbes. So when you touch your face often, you drop them there. God knows they ain't there to do any good.
Additionally, get a good skin care routine (cleansing, toning, moistyurising) and eat healthy.

Read also
#What You Need to do if you want to Stay Beautiful.
#DIY - These hair masks came to my rescue.

If you tried this, I will like to know. Share with us which recipe works for you in the comment box below.

Read More

Glowww With Pride!!!!

   I understand that our lives these days are so busy that there is no time to even sit and eat. Most, eat on-the-go. But there are important things in life too that need our daily attention. Taking care of our body is one. Our skin is our first suit. Any other covering is second.

   Beautiful skin does not happen overnight. It requires time and the know-how on  good skin care. Not to leave out, the discipline required at times to carry them out.

     I am going to list out some basic beauty tips you can follow. Read through. Take note of the points. Be conscious of been beautiful as you go about your daily activities. Then you will find out that imbibing good beauty habits comes easier than you thought.

   Below are the beauty tips:

1. Cleanse

Good thorough cleansing frees the skin of sweet, dirt, excess oil and pollution. Cleansing is not just about soap and water. Get a good clesnser that suits your skin, clean without making your skin red, too tight and itchy. Proper cleansing will enable the absorbtion of other skin products.

2. Exfoliate

Exfoliating removes the older skin cells, revealing the fresher new ones. Using an appropriate body scrub, exfoliate once a week or more depending on your skin demands.

3. Moisturize

Moisturizing daily is a must. This keeps the skin hydrated and prevents dryness with its troubles, Eg. Aging. Even an oily skin needs moisturizing.

4. Reduce skin exposure to sun

Lessen your exposure to the sun or hot outdoor weather. When you are outdoors, protect yourself by wearing a hat, carry an umbrella along and do not leave the house without applying a sunscreen. Some makeup products do have SPF for skin protection from sun radiation.

5. Do not squeeze/pick/pop pimples

Picking pimples irritates, inflames the skin and triggers more pimples. When squeezing pimples, the skin structure is disturbed, then dirt, dead cells and bacteria gets into the skin pores, causing dark pigmentation and acne scars.

6. Maintain good hygiene

Clean the skin at least twice a day to clean off the dirt, sweat and grime of the day. The towel used in drying the body should be kept clean too. Make sure the bed and pillows have clean covers that is washed regularly. Wash cloths, innerwears very often , if possible, wear them once and then wash. Wash hands frequently.

7. Drink Water

Drink enough water daily. Take about 7-10 litres glasses of water to keep body hydrated and remove toxins easily.

8. Good lifestyle

An active lifestyle as opposed to a sedentary life is important. Exercise regularly at least 20 minutes each day. During exercise, there is increased for active metabolism of nutrients and energy to all parts of the body including the skin. Reduce stress because stress releases inflammatory chemicals that effects the skin.

9. Good diet

Eat healthy food rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, protein and iron, that nourishes the skin. Eg. green vegetables, egg, fish, pawpaw, avocado e.t.c. Good food helps skin rejuvenation, natural hydrationand improvement in skin texture. Avoid junk food, high fat, greasy snack food, all high-sugar foods. They add more toxins into the body.

10. Sleep well

Have adequate sleep to allow the skin to repair and renew itself.

11. Good skin care therapy

It is advised by skin care professionals that skin care and anti-aging therapy should begin early, at least in early 20's. Find suitable scrubs, cleansers, masks and anti aging products for your skin type. Skin care therapy with natural recipes is advantageous because it has little or no side effects and it is more economical when compared to the chemically based ones.

12. Do not go overboard with skin products.

When you apply too many products at a time or too much of one product at once, the skin gets irritated. If you like to try out different skin products, space the application and observe the effect on the skin. Then you will know whether to drop a product or continue to use. Switching beauty products very frequently can cause harm to skin as new ingredients in the products can irritate your skin and cause breakouts.

13. Do not sleep with makeup on.

Sleeping with makeup on can lead to clogged pores and trapped bacteria, dirt and makeup in the pores that forms acne, blackheads and pimples. So make sure you clean off your makeup before hitting the bed.

14. See your doctor

In cases, where mild cases of acne worsen with home treatment and or you suddenly have serious breakouts all over the face, chest, back and arm, go see your doctor or dermatologist. It goes a long way in not only treating you physically but also relieves you emotionally and psychologically.

15. Avoid bad habits

Avoid bad habits like smoking. Smoking pollutes the skin causing acne and dull skin and early aging.

  If you take care not to break this rules, you will save yourself many skin problems and your skin will be beautiful.


Is there something I omitted, please share in the comment box below.

Read More

Am a coconut oil beauty - I'd Rather Use Coconut Oil to Replace these 15 others !!

   If you have coconut oil, then you can save much space in your beauty bag and money because coconut oil replaces most beauty products with far better results. Follow me as we explore the versatility of coconut oil.

1. Hair Conditioner
Coconut oil strengthens the hair and it is said to be one of the best hair conditioners. All you need to do is massage it into scalp to the tips of your hair after shampoo. Leave it on for 20minutes. Then rinse out with water.

2. Body moisturizer
Coconut oil is rich in healthy fatty acids that hydrates and softens the skin. Take a small amount and apply over the body especially the dry areas like the elbow, knees and heels.

3. Hand cream
Coconut oil has antibacterial, antimicrobial properties , so it is active against germs. Rub a small amount of coconut oil after hand wash. You can add it to your liquid hand soap for triple action - cleanse, disinfect and moisturize.

4. Cuticle Oil
Coconut oil can soften the cuticle and lubricate the nails. After using chemical-based nail products like nail polish remover, you can moisturize the nail and cuticles and nullify the harsh effects of the chemicals. This will strengthen nails and prevents it from becoming brittle and breaking easily. Massage it into the nails and leave on for sometime to sink into the nail structure before finishing up your manicure and pedicure. Coconut oil is also antifungal so it can prevent nail fungus infections.

5. Sunscreen
The antioxidants in coconut oil prevents skin damage and calms sensitive, inflamed sunburn skin. It can also tone and in skin color. The vitamin E in the oil bolsters skin UV protection and slows aging. Just apply it all over skin before going outdoor in the daylight. You can even apply on face before makeup as natural SPF. Just use a small amount.

6. Shaving Cream
For people with sensitive skin, coconut oil is the best alternative to chemical laden shaving products that irritates skin. This oil soothes the irritated skin and moisturizes dry skin after shave. It also treats eczema, acne, pimples that is common on and around chin.

7. Face Cleanser
Coconut oil is suitable for all skin types, even oily skin. It contains medium chain fatty acids, lauric acid and capric acid that deep cleanses the skin pores and protects the skin from acne-causing bacteria.
  Read also how to properly use coconut oil on face.

8. Foot Cream/ Callus Remover
Coconut oil breaks down dead cells, softens and lubricates the skin. To soften the foot, rub the coconut oil on it and cover with soaks. Leave it overnight to a softer feet the next day. To remove calluses, soak feet in water mixed with coconut oil. Then scrub softened feet with pumice stone. Wash of and pat dry. Moisturize with coconut oil.

9. Eye Cream
If you have under-eye dark circles from sun radiation, you can get rid of them with coconut oil.  Coconut oil contains vitamin E and antioxidants that prevents skin sagging and slows aging. Rub a small amount of the oil  under the eye with you little finger regularly for 2 weeks. There will be manifest reduction in the dark circles.

10. Lip Balm
For instant relief from dry lips, rub a bit of coconut oil on lips to moisturize the lips. For chapped lips, scrub oil moistened lips with very soft brush and coconut oil to remove the dead cells revealing the fresher, smooth lips.

11. Makeup Remover
It is easier and economical to remove makeup with coconut oil. It can remove the dirt, grime , all kinds of applied makeup products. It effectively cleanse the skin and unclogs the pores.

12. Massage Oil
Massage your body with coconut oil to soothe your tired muscles. Remember to clean your body before massage.

13. Face Primer
If you have dry skin, try priming your face with a tiny amount of coconut oil before apply makeup. The thin layer of applied oil will prime the face and form a barrier between the makeup and your skin. Hence, protecting your skin and allowing smooth application of the makeup.

14. Hair moisturizer
Coconut oil's triglycerides and fatty acids and vitamins can revitalize dry damaged hair. Use it regularly as hair moisturizer. It is also a good detangler and tames hair frizzes.

15. Stretch Mark Cream
Coconut oil can stimulate collagen, skin tautness and elasticity. So rub it often on stretch mark will keep the connective tissues strong and reduce it.

I know you might be surprised at what great beauty package , coconut oil is.. Yes it does all this! Just try it !

Make sure to use original virgin coconut oil. Cold-pressed coconut oil is also an alternative. If you are having a hard time finding a good coconut oil,

Buy here:
 Click here to view different brands extra virgin coconut oil and prices.

What are you using coconut oil for? We will love to know. Share with us in the comment box below.

Read More

Naturally Luscious Lips.

   Dream lips? Luscious lips? You can definitely have them. Don't bother about its enemies - weather changes, dehydration.

  With good diet, constant hydration by drinking enough water daily and proper care, your lips can be naturally beautiful. Proper care involves exfoliation and moisturizing. Regular exfoliation gets rid of dead cells on dry chapped lips.

  Lipscrubs are super exfoliators. There are a good number of lip scrubs in the stores. But you can make your own lip scrubs. Homemade lip scrubs are as perfect as or even more than those expensive ones.

Let me share with you some superb ones.


Cucumber lip scrub

What to do
Slice cucumber.
Rub the lips gently with the sliced cucumber for 5minutes.
Then wash off with cool water.

The cucumber softens the lips and gradually sloughs off the dead cells as you scrub, leaving you, soft, smooth, lightened color lips.


Coconut Oil Lip Scrub

What you need
1tsp coconut oil
1/2tsp honey
1tsp granulated sugar

What to do
Mix all the above ingredients together
Massage your lips gently wit the mixture for about 3mins. Leave it on for 5mins.
Wipe off with damp soft cloth.

#Honey is a natural preservative so you can store the remaining mixture in a small container with cover in a refrigerator and use it for about a week.


Lemon juice lip scrub

What you need
1/2 tsp lemon juice
1tsp honey
1tsp granulated sugar

What to do
Mix the ingredients together well.
Apply the mixture over the lips.
Massage gently for 1min and leave it on for few minute.
Wash it off.

This lip scrub exfolites and also gradually gets rid of lip pigmentation if you use it regularly.

Vaseline lip scrub
All you need here is Vaseline and soft bristled brush
Dip the soft brush into the Vaseline.
Brush the lips gently with the Vaseline for 2minutes.
Wipe off excess.

This is one quick easy way to get soft, smooth lips.
Try it at night before sleep and wake up the next morning with a WOW lips.

If you will like to go the extra mile, try   Blissfully Buis DIY Lush Lip scrub


Did you try any of these? I and our readers will like to know.

Yout might be interested in
#Raw African Black Soap
#Makeup Hygiene #2

Read More

An Amazing DIY Teeth Whitener You Need to Try

   
   In ancient times, you will agree with me that there were no toothbrushes. All present commercially branded toothpaste and toothbrushes came with civilization.You wonder how they kept their teeth white and clean?

From my read

    Activated charcoal was among other things the ancient people used. The practice dates back thousands of years.

What makes Charcoal effective?

   Activated Charcoal is 100% alkaline, which means it has negative charges and this attracts like a magnet the positive charge, binding it. This action is what makes it effective for use in expelling ingested poisons in emergency cases; reducing teeth stains of coffee, wine and cigarette. The alkalinity of the charcoal makes it unfavorable for bad bacteria to flourish thereby killing it.

   I attest to the amazing goodness of charcoal in the whitening of teeth. I get lot of compliments for my white dentition. Secret? I remember as a little girl growing up with my siblings we had charcoal sessions with my mom. It was not only fun but effective.

This is how we did it.

Things to use

Activated Charcoal ( powdered)

Chewing stick or soft toothbrushes

Procedure (with chewing stick)

1.Chew the ends of the chewing stick to form soft bristles.

2.Dip the chewed soft part of the chewing stick in the powdered charcoal.

3.Rub on teeth ( Yes! Your mouth will be black and messy , that's the price you pay, lol). Do not swallow. Spit out.

4.Repeat the process and clean all parts/corners of your teeth.

5.Rinse mouth with water to remove all charcoal particles.


Procedure (With toothbrush)

1.Wet the toothbrush or spread toothpaste on the toothbrush.

2.Then dip into charcoal and  go through the same procedure above  2- 5

Taadaa!! Your teeth will look whiter and shine clean.


Extra

Activated charcoal and salt combination is another amazing combination we did for teeth whitening. I am not surprised because if baking soda (or bicarbonate soda) can whiten the teeth then charcoal-salt combo will do better. Charcoal is carbon and salt is chemically, sodium chloride. Therefore, the chemical combination of charcoal and salt should give something similar to sodium bicarbonate (baking soda).

Note: Activated charcoal is a mild abrasive and excessive use is not good for the enamel of teeth. Therefore use it for a few days and give a break.


"Beauty is power; a smile is its sword" - John Ray.

 Keep Smiling!!

Can you give it a try? I will love to hear your experience and tips too.

Read also
#Raw African Black Soap

Read More

Beauty DIY- How to Use Coconut Oil on Face

  
  Owing to the great benefits of coconut oil to the health, skin, and hair, many people are getting initiated into the coconut oil beauty world. Coconut oil's versatility, affordability, naturalness, chemically-free nature continues to endear it to us.

   Nevertheless, some are hesitant to use this product. Possibly, because they are sensitive/allergic to it or the results are not encouraging. This happens in the case of  people with oily acne prone skin. They are concerned about using oil on an already oily face. No need to worry.

   Most times it is about how you use it. I will like to share with you how I use it on my oily face and it works.


Procedure

Get a Cotton wool.

Drop a sizeable amount on the cotton wool (like a teaspoon).

Gently clean up your face in a circular motion, starting with the cheeks, forehead down the nose and sides and then the chin.

Repeat the process with another cotton wool and coconut oil until the cotton wool comes off clean and/or you feel you've had a good clean.

Take another cotton wool and wipe off excesses  leaving a thin layer of oil on the face.

Wait for about 10minutes to let the coconut oil to sink into pores to fight off the bacteria and prevent acne from developing.

Then wash off face with natural mild soap or warm water and pat dry. This step is important especially for acne-prone skin because if the coconut oil is left that way on the face, it can clog pores, thereby creating acne and encouraging blackhead formation.

My experience

   My skin is terribly oily and also sensitive. I had acne, pimples and sometimes dry flaky skin around my chin and mouth. Then I discovered coconut oil. At first, i had breakout and felt it was not working. I continued using it though, for other things like for my hair. The more I read about how good coconut oil is for the skin, i felt compelled to start using it for my face again,  tried different methods and then i ended up with this.

   I have been been doing this coconut oil beauty cleansing routine almost every night for more than a year now. It took the place of cleanser and makeup remover. I hardly get breakouts now. There has been great improvement on my oily acne-prone face. Lesser worries!


Are you a coconut oil beauty? How do you use it in your beauty routine?

You might also like
#Am a Coconut oil beauty - I'd rather use coconut oil to replace this 15 others!
#Beauty DIY - How to get rid of your acne.

Read More