Beauty and Sexy tips

Low carb diet rules

2006-04-03T01:30:00.000+02:00

Be smart doing the low carb!

In addition to my Sabotaging your diet article, I wrote an appendix, dealing with the things you should really take care of when doing low carb diets such as Atkins and South Beach. Some of this advice are from my own experience, some are from experts, all put together to help you lose weight!

Just to let you know: no fast weight reducing diet is good for you. This out of the way, I must inform you that low carb diets made many people loose a lot of weight, me included, but the regime requires a lot of self control.

First of all, you can't eat all the salami and mayo in the world for one meal, because calories that you put in still matter. Although you probably could get away with eating more calorie-wise than usual, you should try to keep the calorie count to 500 calories less. This will fast forward your weight loss. Also, after some time on the Atkins, I completely lost my desire for food, everything seemed so, well, bloody, that I had to remind myself to eat. No problem with the 500 calories less for me!

You need the starting period. Yes you do. And don't pretend you don't know that potato chips and chocolate don't contain carbs, because they do. The best thing for you would be to not eat any carbs for the first two weeks – this will help your body switch to burning fat instead of carbs, and also make your mind forget it ever tasted a chocolate chip cookie.

Vitamins are of essence. As you will be cutting down on fruits and vegetables, please insure that you're getting enough vitamins and minerals, which a lot of meats produced today lack. I used to drink waters enhanced with vitamins and liters of lemonade. You could try taking supplements in pills, but choose wisely. Buy a tested and scientifically (FDA or FSA) approved brand.

Exercise and lift weights. After some time on Atkins, I started to have a feeling of complete lack of energy. I took afternoon naps and slept in late at mornings. Seeing that 14 hours of sleep took me nowhere, I asked my doctor for advice, she told me to exercise. As I hate that word and its meaning, the only thing I could do was to start riding my bike to work instead of driving. Worked like a charm. Exercise is crucial because of one other thing: it will prevent your skin becoming flabby and 'oversized'.

Once again, I'm warning you that low carb diets are not the perfect solution to weight loss. But, if you're determined to try it out, I hope this helped.

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More fashion trends for spring 2006

2006-03-25T21:15:00.000+01:00

In addition to my recent post about Spring fashion musts, I'm handing out new and improved spring trends, which you can't ignore (it's going to be everywhere, so why don't you get a head start?)

Geisha look and everything oriental is in. So much in, that you have to get at least one kimono dress or shirt (but please pass on those silly samurai pants, no one looks good in those, except for bulimia prone models with no curves but with legs a meter and a half long). Try Bebe for a dress and Topshop for a nice top – all kimono style.

Don't forget to buy at least one white shirt for spring too. You can go for a shirtdress or a plain normal shirt, but trust me, you'll need one.

Go bold. And while you're picking a spring dress in a wild African bold print, remember, you can also do scarves in bold, which is a nice touch if you have a bit of spare meat on your bones (be careful with this trend, bold prints can make you seem bigger than you really are – but than again, who cares)

Lace and white are your spring best friends. The delicate fabrics and needlework make you look much more feminine. One of the nicest outfits I saw covering this style is Luisa Beccaria skirt and blouse.

Put a suit on, but try to make it a more relaxed one, in an unexpected color. Leave the shoulder pads at home.

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Get rid of cellulite

2006-03-17T23:00:00.000+01:00

…with aromatherapy

It seems to me that no matter how much I write about accepting our bodies and being happy with our curves, women tend to do stupidest things to get rid of weight. They can follow one silly fad diet after another, but they won't do the simple eat-less-and-workout-more reasonable plan.

If not dieting their guts out, girls will buy any cosmetic product that promises to relive their fatty tissue away magically.

To put a stop to this, I've found a nice aromatherapy recipe for getting rid of cellulite. It won't work overnight, but it will make your skin sooo much softer and those bumps on your thighs less visible and smaller. Plus, you can make it yourself for a small amount of money, being sure what's in it, as opposed to those well-marketed brands, whose main ingredients are usually moisturizer and water.

The first thing you need is 100 mL of hazelnut oil in which you should add up to: 100 drops of cedarwood oil (cedrus deodora), 15 drops of juniper berry oil (Juniperus communis), 40 drops of cypress oil (Cupressus sempervirens), 40 drops of rosemary oil (Rosmarinus officinalis), 20 drops of eucalyptus lemon oil (Eukalyptus citriodora), 20 drops of sage oil (Salvia officinalis) and up to 20 drops of lemon oil (Citrus limon).

Once you make the anti-cellulite oil, you should keep it in a small clean bottle with a tight cap on. (Admit it, you enjoyed being a witch for a while!)

You can smear the oil twice a day onto your troubled areas (say…your butt and thighs) if you have much cellulite, or only once if your cellulite is not so bad. The best thing to do is to smear it on, wait for 10 minutes and than lay down in a nice warm bath (no soap bubbles) for another 10 to 15 minutes. You'll se the results in two to three weeks.

Check out this interesting site for a lot of information on aromatherapy.

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To the rescue!

2006-02-05T00:51:00.000+01:00

How to repair a cracked nail

There is nothing worse than having a broke, split or cracked nail. Especially after you've spent time and energy to grow long nails, following our Nail tips and tricks to the word. But, as Murphy would put it, doors, handles and cans are just waiting for an opportunity to break a nice long nail, so what to do?

First thing first, if you break a nail completely off, the only thing to do is to cut all the others to the same length, or to install an artificial tip. For the artificial tip you have to visit a salon, because I haven't yet found a do at home kit that is foolproof.

But, if your nail cracked at the tip, or somewhere else, but did not break all the way through, you can make wonders. How? Everything you need is nail glue (get the one with the brush, rather than the one in squeeze out tube), one layer of tissue (you can use thin silk, but I warn you that it's much trickier) and a buffer.

Cut the tissue layer in a piece big enough to cover the crack and place it on your nail. Apply glue to it; making sure the tissue does not slip away. Wait for it to dry and then apply another thin layer of glue. Let the glue dry.

Now, the repaired area should be thicker than the rest of your nail, so it's time o use the buffer. Get the one with fine grid, so you don't damage the rest of your nail. Buff the repaired area until you're pleased with the looks of it.

You can now coat your nails in base coat and follow with colour polish. Finish with top coat and no one will ever know you had a chipped nail!
Just be aware that some kinds of glue are soluble in polish remover, so be careful when removing polish and be prepared to do the repairing again if needed.

Oily hair remedies

2006-02-02T19:20:00.000+01:00

Since we've written a lot about dry hair and caring for it, it's high time we paid some attention to the other side of the spectrum: oily hair.

You know the drill: wake up early, wash your oily, limp hair, style it and by the evening you can do it all over again if you want to look decent! It seems that nothing you can do can make your hair normal. Well, try our tips and ease your suffering, be proud of your great new hair!

First of all, wash your hair every day, and use a mild, pH-balanced shampoo. Baby shampoos are great, while those designed for oily hair can be too aggressive for every day use. If your oily hair had side-affected dandruff, get valuable tips and tricks in our Get Rid of Dandruff post.

Put conditioner only on your hair ends, not on the roots. Think about cutting your hair shorter, it will save you time when washing and styling. You should also try to eat less fat, because excess fat can be stored in our hips, as well as be expelled out of our body through hair sebaceous glands.

Avoid all hair styling products containing silicone, oils or lanolin, as well as two-in-one products - these can be too heavy and make your hair produce even more oil. Here are some home made tips and tricks that can help you:

Powder
If you're on a tight schedule, baby powder can be your saviour. Just powder your hair, let it on for 5 minutes and then comb it out. The baby powder will suck up oil from your hair.

Lemon and aloe vera
You'll need 1/2 teaspoon aloe vera gel and 1 tablespoon lemon juice. Blend this ingredients well and add a little of your regular shampoo. Wash your hair as usual, but let the shampoo on for a few minutes.

Mint leaves
Boil two handful of mint leaves in one and a half glass of water for 20 minutes. Strain the solution and mix in a 300ml bottle of shampoo.

Massage
Massaging your scalp can help exfoliate skin and remove all oily residue. Mix 1 tablespoon of Malt Vinegar in a glass of water, add a pinch of salt. Use 2 tablespoons of it on your scalp and massage it with your finger tips twice a week. Leave it on for one hour.

Henna conditioner
Mix Henna with 2 tablespoons of yoghurt and a pinch of sugar to a light paste. Add a bit of water if the paste is thick. Apply on hair and leave it on for twenty minutes. Rinse it out with clear water.

Watercress
This plant has many uses, from battling cancer to improving food taste, all due to many healthy ingredients, such as iron, zinc and vitamin A. One of its less known use is for oily hair treatment: Blend a large handful of fresh watercress with 1 cup of water in a blender (if you have long hair you may need to use 2 full handfuls of watercress and 2 cups of water). Heat the mixture in pan and boil for 10 minutes. Strain, let the liquid cool down. While waiting wash your hair. Pour the watercress liquid over your hair and let it on for 20 minutes. Rinse.

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Put the spice back in your sack!

2006-01-27T00:21:00.000+01:00

Some sexy tips to keep your guy coming for more

Let’s face it girls, if you want anything done, you have to do it yourself. So, instead of moaning about our desperate destinies, get things hot again in the bedroom department.

When the first spark has passed and your relationship is going on it’s second year, you’ll probably start noticing how much less action you’re getting. Or worse still, it will hit you like a light bolt – you haven’t had sweet love in days, not to mention weeks.

If you’re still interested in keeping your find, read on for some romance improving tips and tricks.

Take care of yourself
Although you’re having hard time at work, or the kids are driving you nuts, don’t neglect your beauty. Remove unwanted hairs, style your hair and put on some makeup (you can find great, easy to do advice following links at the bottom of this article), even when you’re in your jeans and silly tee. Don’t forget to put on some perfume. Be attractive, you’ll feel sexier, and he’ll notice it too.

Tell him how much…
…you love him and appreciate him. Men want to feel loved too. Call him up during the day to let him know that you’re thinking about him, exchange a few nice words. Leave him a note saying you want him, or that you would love to spend some quality time with him.

Plan
Planning a special day of the week for just the two of you can be a great turn-on. Either go out for a dinner and a show or stay in, cook and watch a movie. Try to keep physical contact, hold hands, exchange kisses or rub each other’s back. Take a bath together and talk about good things in your life.

Tell him your fantasies
This man has stuck around for this long, he’s not going to run away if you tell him that dressing up like a sailor would turn you on. He will more certainly like it. You can make it into a game, by both of you writing a naughty fantasy on a piece of paper and exchanging it. Make your fantasies come true! If you need any special props, be it a French maid uniform or something a bit kinkier; check Drugstore or Serendipity for inspiration.

Relax
Take the phone off the hook, turn the mobiles off and take your kids to the nanny. Quality time and concentration on the moment are crucial for great intimacy.

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Straighten your hair!

2006-01-22T00:15:00.000+01:00

Sexy sleek hair

One of this season’s biggest hit is sleek straight hair, with a parting in the middle. This is not as easy to achieve, even if you have straight hair already, but don’t worry, we’re here to help you.

First, let us inform you that no matter how much percussion you take, excessive heat from blow dryers and hair irons is damaging for hair. So don’t straighten your hair too often, reserve that hairstyle for special occasions, or on a day you just need to look gorgeous.

One of the most important things to remember is: if you want your hair to look great, you have to take care of it, so for any trouble (such as dandruff, split ends, no gloss) refer to our Hair department for great and thorough hair how-tos.

Once that is taken care of, listen carefully; here goes the perfect sleek, straight hair routine:

If you have really curly hair, try using some straightening and de-frizzing product first (try Rediken straightening balm, it’s great). Blow your hair dry. Thoroughly. Do this by first gently detangling it with a comb and then blow-drying it for a couple of seconds. Then take your brush, preferably with natural bristles and dry your hair part by part, straightening it as much as you can, gently pulling each tress with the brush.

Once done, apply a product to protect your hair from excessive heat (I’m just nuts about Philosophy The Big Blow Off, it’s proven to be a best friend for girls who can’t live without perfect hairdo). Pin up your hair and leave only a small portion of hair at the back of your head loose.

Prepare your hair iron, and preferably use the one with ionic or ceramic plates. The ones that make steam while straightening are also great, because they lock the moisture in your hair.

Start ironing even smaller portions, this will help your hairdo to last longer. Be patient, work your way up your head, finishing up front. Pass each section two or three times, and apply even pressure.

Voila! Your hair is as sleek as a goddess’! Spray with some hair spray for hold and go out to show your great new hair off.

Sensual lips

2006-01-19T20:59:00.000+01:00

Lip colour is back!

And thank God for it (or maybe the designers)! Some of the best news for this cold winter is that full lip colour is back! So you can say bye-bye to your lipgloss and take out your proper lipstick from the depth of your makup cabinet.

The most fashionable colours are deep red, brazen plum or rich cocoa, while nude is a good choice for a more conservative office and metallics will make you the queen of the party. Of course, your lips must be perfect, so click through to our Absolutely fabulous lips tips and tricks post. You'll find advice on how to purchase and apply just the perfect lipstick.

Speaking of metallic colours, it's all about gold, pearl, chrome and bronze. As for all makeup, you have to decide whether you want your eyes or lips accented. And also, don't mix the metallics, it'll just make you look like a robot.

If you opt in for eyes, don't be afraid of cream shadows, they're the best for metallic look. The trick is to apply it with a brush, and don't blink until dry – to avoid creases. If you want your lips to carry the metallic look, get the lipstick that compliments your skin tone. And don't forget a bit of gloss in the middle of your lips!

I know what you're thinking…why not mix the whole new look together. And you're right! Get chrome eyes with deep red lips, bronze lids with nude pouts. The key here is to experiment, and have fun while doing it!

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Yoga won't make you slimmer

2006-01-16T23:27:00.000+01:00

No matter how hard you try, none of the new-age methods will help you loose the pounds piled up on your hips and bottom.

This is because yoga, pilates and all other yoga-like exercises are aimed at achieving good body posture and alignment while increasing flexibility and ease of movement. You may want to believe pilates is all Madonna needs, but trust us, she puts in a lot of running, fat free yoghurts with nothing but green salad and a lot of water.

Yoga can be great for your soul, and to keep your muscles flexible, but in order to loose weight you'll have to do more than that. One of the sanest advices a girl dieting can get is:
exercise 20 minutes a day and eat less. The pounds will melt right off.

You see, a pound of fat represents approximately 3500 calories of stored energy. In order to lose a pound of fat, you have to use 3500 more calories than you consume. This can be achieved by eating only 500 calories (FYI that's one Big Mac) a day less then needed and going to work by foot, playing tennis or joining a gym.

For this you first have to calculate how much you eat at first place, so browse to Calorie Counter where you can find all nutrition values you want. Even if you like to pig out, be true to yourself and calculate correctly.

Don't scare your body and soul by taking away too much food. Take off only 500 calories at first, see how you're doing and take off some more in a week or two. Your goal should be 2000 – 2500 calories once you reach near your wanted weight. That much energy your body needs to sleep, breathe, work and play.

Second, the hardest part, you do need to exercise. If you exercise in manner to spend additional 500 calories, you can loose up to 3 pound a week. How much exercise does that mean? Browse to Activity Calorie Calculator and find out. The great news here is that the more you weigh, the more calories you spend exercising. And once you get in the habit of exercising, and your muscles start moulding, they'll burn more fat. So, you see, you can't loose anything except fat by exercising!

On this diet you are bound to loose at least one pound a week (if you exercise only sparsely), which is a healthy weight loss plan. If you want to accelerate pound loosing, exercise more. No one promised it to be easy, but this way the pounds you once loose are not bound to come back, which is the result of many popular yo-yo diets, such as Atkins, South beach and similar. Some great exercise and diet tips can be found in our Comonsense diet tips 1 and Comonsense diet tips 2.

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Spring season fashion musts

2006-01-09T00:30:00.000+01:00

Don't get caught wearing last season's clothes!

The catwalks have shown the fashion musts and trends for upcoming spring season. Designers did their best to make the clothes as fresh as possible, so look out and get yours in advance.

Lets start with the accessories, the secret love of every woman. Bags of the spring are either really small or oversized, but all are worn in hand, it seems that shoulder straps are out.

When it comes to pants, you can go two ways: last years capris and roll cuffed cut jeans are transforming into this springs shorts. Wear them in any colour, barefoot or in tights, you can't go wrong.

The other way to go is a super slim, tailored look, cut beneath the ankle. Don't forget the belt, it must be a bit wider and preferably in the same colour as the pants.

The colour of designer's choice for spring is nude, especially for dresses, which have one more twist: an accentuated waist. You can achieve this by adding a wide belt, or by tying a luscious bow around yourself.

If you're not up to showing the width of your waist, you'll be glad to hear that the baby-dolls are coming back. Get your old one from the closet and get ready to put it on with the first rays of spring sun.

Last, but not least, are shoes. The accent is on the heels, which mustn't be low. In fact, the higher you can get the better. One other thing – forget about sharp thin heels, the springs must is a wider heel or a platform look with a twist.

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Make yourself over

2005-12-30T12:58:00.000+01:00

No lypo, just plain old reason

The easiest way to completely change the way you look is to splash money on plastic surgery. Perfect your nose, opt for some botox, get your buttocks, tummy and thighs lyposucked, put some silicone into your breasts and after 6 months (of surgery, narcosis, pain and stitches) you're as good as new. Only breast implants will cost you around $6 000, so you can calculate the rest of the cost accordingly.

But, dramatic change to better your looks does not have to involve scalpels or credit lines. You can do much with so much less, so here it goes:

Skin
Be consistent with your skin care routine. This will perfect your skin and make it a great surface to work on. When you apply moisturiser always massage your face to help lymph and blood flow. Use a special cream for the eye area, and consider using moisturisers with lift effect (especially combined with antioxidants). Micro abrasion can be your friend too, as long as you don't overdo it. There are some great products out there, prices starting at $5.
Don't forget to keep your brows under control, they can really lift your look.

Make up
Hide blemishes and all other imperfections (there's a tutorial under hide).
Be careful with base. The more foundation and powder you put on the older you look. This is because those products have a tendency to sink in after hours of wearing, so a better thing to do is to choose from a range of new, all in one foundations, that smear like a cream but have a powdery finish.
Use natural colours for lids and lips, emphasise your lashes and always use lash curler.

Body
Yes, you have to exercise. Work on your problem areas at least 15 minutes every day. You can do sit-ups and firm your arms and breast area by lifting water bottles. A big help can be applying skin firmer lotions, such as Dove and Vichy produce. They refine the skin and make cellulite less visible.
Bronzers and self-taning lotions hide cellulite too. It takes a bit to perfect the applying skill, but it's worth it. Also, self tanners make you look slimmer, no wonder they are the hit of this season.

Hair
Choose a classic, sexy hairstyle that suits you perfectly, and don't get fooled with the trends. It takes money to have asymmetric bangs or healthy long hair, so cut your hair to the shoulders. Have it layered to achieve additional volume and consider getting a light modern perm that will keep your hair looking great for three or four months in a row.If you dye your hair, don't go more than two shades lighter than your natural hair colour. Always choose warmer tones of hair colour that make your face appear softer and younger.

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Blusher smart

2005-12-24T00:19:00.000+01:00

You can't have serious makeup, or consider yourself ready to face the world without at least a pinch of blusher on your face. Blusher adds colour and depth to the skin and can add a healthy glow to colourless cheeks, forehead and nose. Blusher will also give dimension to areas that would ordinarily be lost.

You can choose from powder (the easiest to apply), cream (the most intensive one) or gel (to use with no foundation). The key is to apply a very small amount and add only a hint of colour.

This fall/winter look demands pinkish, glittery blush, combined with fuchsia lipstick, white eye pencil on the inner part of the eyes and deep black mascara. This is a great look, makes every woman look younger.

Decide which form of blusher you want to use and prepare your face accordingly (for powder apply foundation and powder firs, when using cream sole foundation will do, and with gel you don't have to put anything on except your beloved moisturiser).

If you want your face to look narrower, make a thin vertical streak in the middle of your every cheek.

Want to emphasise cheekbones and look slimmer? Apply blusher high, following your cheekbones.

If your goal is to look fresh and well rested, slap some blusher in the middle of your cheeks.

Your face is long and narrow? Make it rounder and softer by applying some blusher in a straight horizontal line.

Experiment and have fun. If you're feeling worn out, like the morning after partying all night long, try putting a light stroke of blusher across your forehead up by your hairline or just above your brows.

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Some new hair removal

2005-12-18T14:25:00.000+01:00

Get tidy and fuzz-free before Christmas!

We have said the most important things about hair removal in our Hair removal and how to do it post, but it's high time we take one step further and let you know about all those new and 'maybe' less painful methods of removing hair. Tips and tricks on these new, or rediscovered, ways to get rid of unwanted hair, as well as some new thoughts on the matter as follows:

What do you really need?
It's always a good idea to get to know your body, skin and hair type. Consider different hair removal methods for different body parts. Maybe there is an easier and cheaper way to do it.

Hair growth inhibitors
Lately the market is swamped with different hair growth inhibitors. The truth is that not one of the products that can be bought in drugstores or shops (lotions, creams, gels) has proof of concept. That is, the producers haven't published research results stating how efficient their hair growth inhibitors are. Or are there any side affects. Some women find these moderately effective, or not effective at all, but some also develop nasty rashes or allergies. Our advice is to go to the store, find the product you want, copy the content list and discuss it with your doctor or beautician if you're worried.

If you have a bad hair growth problem (hirsutism), talk to your doctor, you might be eligible for some prescription drug, taken orally, which are very effective, but require constant drug taking.

Sugaring
This hair removal tactic is gaining back it's popularity, but if you're expecting a painless alternative to waxing, don't look for it here. The good news about sugaring is that it's very natural (it's made from sugar, honey and lemon juice), cheap, easy to clean up afterwards (sugar is water-soluble) and gives long lasting results.

There is a downside too. Sugars don't stick as tightly to hairs as wax does, so you'll have to do the same patch of skin twice or three times.

Threading or Khite
This method involves quickly rolling a twisted piece of thread back and forth across skin, removing many hairs at once, so threading is considered less painless than waxing. It's environment friendly and faster than tweezing, so it's a good idea for shaping eyebrows or removing facial hair. After threading you're free from unwanted hair for two to three weeks.

Threading is cheaper than waxing, but you might experience some problems finding a good salon practitioner. Be persistent in your search, many women report how delighted they are, cutting the time and money needed for the hair removal in two. You can buy a home kit, but it'll take time to learn the technique.

Combat ingrown hair
As every girl knows, ingrown hairs are painful and difficult to get rid of. The trick is to take a warm bath before hair removal and use body peeling regularly, so your pores are as open as possible. Rinse skin with cold water afterwards and don't apply any moisturizers for at least two hours.

If you still get ingrown hairs, don't wax, tweeze or epilate until the situation clears up.

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Liquid diets suck

2005-12-10T14:43:00.000+01:00

The only purpose of that advertised shakes is to implement calories, otherwise you would most certainly die of starvation!

Looking at an advertisement for Slimfast diet shakes, which promises fantastic weight loss, we went bezerk and wanted to share our thoughts with you, so you wouldn't get intimidated or urged to buy that can of pure illusion.

Here it goes: when you're on the Slimfast diet, you are allowed to eat sugar free gelatine, vegetables, salads and…nothing else. But, you are required to drink 3 disgustingly tasting shakes, 8 glasses of water and exercise for at least 30 minutes every day.

What the… ? The pure logic of dieting states that if you exercise for 30 minutes every day, and don't raise your calorie input, you are bound to loose weight. Moreover, if you chop your food down to the list mentioned above, you are most certainly going to loose some more.

So, why buy Slimfast? For no reason whatsoever, except to give you the calories your body needs to run functions such as breathing, pumping blood etc. Because if you followed the diet without drinking the shakes you would most certainly become seriously malnourished soon, and that brings a lot of other problems too.

What's the point of all this? Well, our advice is: don't believe that magic pills, shakes and creams. Be smart and enjoy life, follow our simple tutorials: Commonsense diet tips 1 and 2, and stay clear of Fatty habits.

And by the way, it's ok to have a big bum, large breasts and a tummy. No one we know is perfectly slim, or wants to be. The only thing you have to do is to stay true to yourself, and be satisfied the way you look!

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Home made cosmetics

2005-12-06T01:38:00.000+01:00

Home goodies to get you through winter

As winter comes we spend more and more time at home. To save you from boredom and yet help you do something good for your body, face and hair, we’ve collected some very easy recipes even we can make. It’s fun, easy and 100 percent home made!

Avocado hair bliss
This cream is great for deep conditioning of dry hair, but can be applied at least every fortnight to any hair type, because harsh winter winds, low temperature and indoor heating make any hair fragile.

All you need is a ripe avocado and two tablespoons of plain yoghurt. Peel the avocado, slice it and put in a blender or food processor. Add the yoghurt and mix until you get a smooth cream. Moisten your hair and apply the avocado cream. Massage it in and let on for 5 to 10 minutes. Rinse well, shampoo and condition as usual.

Tired feet remedy soak
After a day’s hard work pamper your cold feet in this great recipe. You need to pour a cup of milk and half a cup of lemon juice in a blender and mix well. Transfer the soak in a large basin and put your feet in. Rest for about 15 minutes, take your feet out and dry properly. Apply a generous amount of any hydrating cream and put on a pair of warm cotton socks.

Dry skin honey smoother
Our elbows, knees, legs and hands get especially dry at winter. This mask is quick and easy to prepare, but it’s affects are long lasting!

You’ll need half of an apple (peel it, get rid of the centre and chop it to smaller pieces), one tablespoon milk, one tablespoon honey, one tablespoon of finely ground oats, one teaspoon of apple vinegar and a few drops of lemon essential oil.

Put an apple in a blender (food processor) and start blending. Add the vinegar, after a while milk and after a further minute add oats and honey. Blend until it becomes smooth, and then pour into a container. Stir and add about three drops of lemon essential oil. Let it rest for 15 or 20 minutes.

Apply the mixture to any body part you wish, let it sink in for a few minutes and then gently massage in circular motion. Rinse well and hydrate the skin with any cram you like.

Oat and honey skin clear up
If you get blackheads during winter, although your face skin is dry, this is the right thing for you! Simply mix three tablespoons of roughly ground oats with two tablespoons of honey, apply to your face, avoiding eye area and rest for 20 minutes. Rinse well, tone and moisturise.

You can use this mask twice a week, and soon you’ll se the blackheads disappear!

If you liked these recipes, please read our Look beautiful all winter long post too. You’ll find some interesting tips and tricks there, which are bound to preserve your beauty all through the winter.

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Long, long hair

2005-12-01T01:35:00.000+01:00

How to care for and grow long hair?

Did you ever look at a woman with long, shiny, luscious hair and wish yours was such? Although we all envy the owners of long hair, only few of us really try to grow it. Short hair is much simpler to handle, style and take care of.

But, once you start thinking about it, you picture yourself with long golden locks, that turn men’s heads. So, do it.

Let your hair grow. In months to come, you’ll be often unsatisfied with the way your hair looks. That’s usually why many women give it up and cut it the way it was. Our suggestion is to bear with it, it’ll be worth the trouble. The first step is to get a haircut, because you need to start with healthy hair, ready to grow. Ask your hairdresser to cut off all the damaged hair and to style it according to your goals. That means no short bangs.

You still have to trim your hair regularly, half an inch every four months at least. Avoid using blow dryer, or hair iron, it’ll break and damage your hair. After you wash your hair, tuck it in a towel and leave it that way for 20 minutes. If you really must use the blow dryer, use it for only a few minutes at time, letting your hair cool off in between.

Say goodbye to peroxide and other damaging hair colours. Go for nature-based colours that protect your hair. Never brush your hair when it’s wet. Brush your hair starting at ends, detangling gently piece-by-piece with your fingers first. Read more tips and tricks about maintaining beautiful, strong and healthy hair in our Hair trouble post.

Once your hair has grown for a few inches, you can go to the hairdresser to style it more suitably. For instance, you can get layers by cutting a few locks shorter, which will make your hair appear fuller too.

Waiting for your hair to grow and dealing with outgrown style can be stressful. But stop worrying, here are some hairstyle suggestions: Make a sweet ponytail and tame the stray hairs with some cool pins. Change the parting of your hair, that can completely change the way you look and feel. Flip your ends out and tuck bangs behind your ears. Use some gel to sleek all of your hair down. Put your hair up and safe it with a fair number of pins. Curl only the ends and sleek down the rest of your hair.

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Skin myths revealed

2005-11-24T23:03:00.000+01:00

It’s very easy to make a mistake when your skin is concerned. Since we’re here to help you, read on and find out what really goes on, what’s good and what’s not suitable for your delicate skin.

Soap cleans your skin best
Yes, soap will really clean your face – way too much. It’ll not only get rid of makeup and dirt, but natural oils and moisture as well. Although this leaves you with a feeling of really ‘squeaky’ clean face, under a microscope it’s a disaster.

After soap your skin is completely unprotected and it takes time for it to produce its protective layer again. So, remember, best cleansing for your face is milk, gel or cream cleanser. You can find gentle soaps, which state to nourish your skin, be careful. If it leaves your face tightened, and your skin itchy, don’t use it.

Big pores can be smaller
Sorry to have to say this, but – not! No matter what you do, which cream, lotion or oil you use, you can’t contract or narrow your pores. Pores expand with age, especially if you have oily skin.

If you want to slow this us, cleanse regularly and use the peeling. You can out find how in our Essential skin care post. Dirt and dead cells can broaden pores.
Higher SPF protects skin betterA sun cream with SPF 30 will give you only 4 per cent better protection than the one with SPF 15, although by logic the protection should double.

The trick is to apply a thick layer of sunscreen and repeat it often. Better yet, avoid sun exposure during critical hours. This is very important in winter if there is snow.

You can stop skin aging
You really can’t but you can slow it down a bit and make your skin look its best. Your worst enemies when it comes to skin aging are free radicals which are introduced when sunbathing, smoking, eating unhealthy foods and under stress.

What to do? Try out our Improve and revive your skin post. Pay attention to the part about antioxidants. Always apply moisturizing cream after bathing or showering, use sun block daily, wear a hat to protect your face and practice daily skin care routine. Sleep enough and rest when you need to.

Foundation and powder compliment your skin
Foundation, loose or compact powders are, in fact, bad for your skin. They stop your skin from breathing, and enter your pores, clogging and widening them. If you have acne and other skin problems, powders can make it worse, if left on for too long. The trick is to wear light foundation and loose powder rather than using compact powder. Think about what you’re trying to achieve, sometimes all you need is a good, well blended concealer.

Take your makeup off as soon as you can and try to spend your free time without powder on your face.

Dehydrated and dry skin are the same
When skin is dehydrated, it lacks moisture on the surface. Dry skin is a completely different condition, it lacks oils and not water. Most of us have dehydrated skin. Although it feels dry, it’s just the lack of water.

But, if you apply creams for dry skin to dehydrated skin, you opt for a real disaster. So, the best thing to do is to use peeling at least once a week and generously apply moisturizing products. If it doesn’t get any better in two months, visit your dermatologist, who can tell you if you have dry skin or not.

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Chapped Lips

2005-11-21T16:16:00.000+01:00

Make your lips kissable!

Even though summer sun can make our lips chapped, because they have no melanin and therefore no protection against sun damage, the worst time for every girl’s lips is winter.

The harsh wind, cold, indoor heating all leave our sensitive lips chapped, not at all kissable as we would like. One way to go is to become a lip balm addict, the other is to read through our tips and tricks for chapped lips and get the lips you’ve always wanted.

Experts say it takes just a few days to fix even the worst chapped lips. So, the sooner you start, the sooner you’ll get more beautiful! (Beware: if your lips are so cracked they bleed, you should really se your doctor!)

Change your habits
It really helps to stop licking and biting your lips. Even though licking dry lips can give you an instant relief, the situation afterwards is even worse. And by all means: don’t bite your lips, it’ll peel off any protective layer left.

Water is your best friend
Dry winter air sucks moisture even from the best looking skin and lips. Drink water wherever you go, and always take a little bottle with you in your bag. Also, humidify air in your office and home, you’ll see results very soon.

Buy only moisturizing goods
Don’t let anything other than moisturizing lipstick and lip balm touch your lips. The best ones lock moisture in, and your lippies feel so soft. Look for ones that have SPF protection too.

Beware of winter sports
When you’re on snow, and sun is up, rays become few times stronger than usually. When skiing, snowboarding, running or doing anything outdoors, you should wear especially strong lip protection. Try Vaseline petroleum jelly or some special ointment form the sport store.

Combat yeast with yogurt
Many girls have problems with yeast infections in corners of their mouth, especially after taking antibiotics or excessive stress. Corners of their mouth become red and cracked, very painful. Liquid acidophilus yogurt, found in any supermarket, can help a lot. Eat it for a few days, and your lips should become as kissable as before.

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Looking great on a tight budget

2005-11-17T20:14:00.000+01:00

Save money on beauty items

We all went drooling over that new and special mascara the first time we saw the TV advertisement. It was not only in true black colour; it also made eyelashes longest possible, curly and accentuated, without any clumps. The mascara promised to make our eyes bigger, sexier and irresistible. We had to have it!

But then the cold price shower was turned on us when we searched for it in our favourite department store. Oh my God! But, calculating quickly, we realised we could actually afford it, if we don’t go out for a fortnight and don’t eat lunch at work for a whole month. What a bargain!

Errrr…. Or not.

Does looking great and luscious have to be expensive? We say – NO! Read on and find out tips and tricks of staying beautiful on a tight budget.

Body
Apply moisturiser after every shower, apply a peeling at least once a week. Take care of your feet, and you’ll always look expensive (there’s a great post about it called Pamper your feet).

Don’t forget your hands, put a small tube of any moisturising cream in your handbag and apply it whenever you need. Gentle hands are the first sign of a lady. Getting a manicure can be a pretty expensive sport, so do it at home yourself, for just a fraction of the cost following our nail advice. Use pale, natural polish colours.

To achieve that perfect skin glow use a light build up bronzer – moisturiser, that’ll help you cover up those little imperfections (cellulite, spider vanes, stretch marks).

Hair
Have you ever noticed how really rich girls always seem to have the simplest haircuts? That’s the real trick for saving money (not as if they needed it). Better spend some more money on a good, classic cut that fits you perfectly two or three times a year than to skip form one fashionable haircut to another, but in lower quality salons. You’ll look really well kept with the sexy classic looking hair.

Yes, you can colour your hair at home. Just remember to buy a product that is based on natural ingredients and which contains protective oils. For best results ask your girlfriend to help you, you can make it into a regular thing doing each other’s hair. If you want highlights, it’s not as difficult as you might imagine. Many brands have new all in one products with applicators, so all you really need is a good friend to lend you a hand. Money saving galore!

You can save on hair products as well. Instead of every day, wash your hair every other or just two times a week. It will probably make your hair healthier as well, since the natural scalp oils will have time to hydrate your hair. Also, use only one product for styling and one for finishing if you must. A cream or a gel is a good choice, because it shines the hair up.

Face
Be persistent with your daily face care routine (it’s easy once you read the tips in Essential face care post), and visit the salon for a facial only twice a year. Don’t forget to apply the same routine to your cleavage and neck too.

Take care of your brows. We’ve described the procedure step by step in our Perfect brows post. Don’t go around looking untamed.

Instead of an expensive bran foundation, go for a translucent, light formula that can be found in any store for a couple of dollars. Combined with a good, well-blended concealer, you should be ok. You can save on makeup too, buy store brands instead of Loreal, Max Factor and Maybeline. They are just as good, and cost four times less.

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Changing in a flash

2005-11-14T23:43:00.000+01:00

From office to a party in 20 minutes

Ever had to be somewhere important, looking your best, and got stuck at work? One option is to get home, shower, remove all makeup, do the makeup all over again, get dressed and catch a cab. And be like an hour late.

The option we propose is a real life and time saver, so keep on reading, serious makeup and clothing tips coming up!

Plan ahead
Put everything you need in a bag the night before. This means stockings, shoes, purse, top and a scarf or a dress, jewellery, brush, one hair product and a small makeup bag (don’t forget the toothbrush, perfume and deodorant). Think about what you’re going to wear. Put as little makeup as possible in the morning.

Dress up
A classic work suit can easily be transformed in a night outfit. Just change your top and loose the jacket. Go for vivid top colours, accompanied by a luscious big scarf around your shoulders. If you prefer the dress, take one that won’t crease. More advice on dressing at a glance can be found in our Dressing up 1-2-3 post.

Shoes and accessories
High heels are a must, sassy purse too. One other trick at adding evening glamour is jewellery. Pick big earrings or an interesting necklace.

Hair
Brush your hair and apply some leave in conditioner, to loose the office smell. You can also use a bit of hair serum to groom the ends of your hair.

Makup
Last but not least, this is the biggest part of your transformation. First apply some stick foundation under eyes and on any imperfections you might have. Blend well. Brush with a bit of loose powder to fixate it. Pick the part you want to emphasise – eyes or lips.

If you opt in for lips, first apply lip pencil and then splurge on a vivid, screaming red lipstick (a great tutorial on lip makeup can be found in our Absolutely fabulous lips article). Apply only liner to your eyes and comb lashes a bit.

If you’d like to emphasise your eyes, put on a dark shade of eye shadow, and top it with liner. Smudge a bit to get smoky eyes look and apply a layer of sheer mascara. Darken your eyebrows a bit. For lips use a neutral colour (mauve, light pink) and a lot of gloss.

In the end, apply shimmering powder to the cheekbones, centre of the forehead, chin, neck, shoulders and décolletage.

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Improve and revive your skin

2005-11-13T23:59:00.000+01:00

A do at home tutorial to great skin

Each of us could use a weekend at a spa or a wellness centre. Stress, pollution and unhealthy life style get to your skin quicker than you think, and before you know it, your skin looks old, uncared for and without it’s usual glow.

If you’re short on money, or just haven’t got a weekend to make yourself look better, here is our troubleshooting guide to improving and reviving your skin in just a few hours. You should divide the treatments up and do as many as you have time to each day.

Our goal is to get back that radiant glow, reduce wrinkles, banish the blemish, make pores less visible and firm the skin.

Here’s what you need: a bathrobe, some relaxing music, essential oils, a good bath brush on a long handle, bath salts, a handful of sea-salt, your usual cream, toner and a mild anti-inflammation solution.

During this reviving treatment, you should eat only antioxidants (orange, yellow, red and green vegetables and fruits, sea food and brown rice). Drink spring water with a twist of lemon or lime.

How to start? Turn your mobile off, TV as well, heat up your bathroom and light a few candles. Put your favourite relax CD on and just sit still for a few minutes.

While showering, use the brush to get rid of dry skin. Moderation is the word here, be gentle. If you rub your skin too vigorously, you could induce an inflammation. Brush your skin in slow, circular moves. Wash well and apply a toner and a cream generously o your whole body.

Do a gommage, very popular in pricey European spas. Mix 30 grams of hard sea salt with 12 drops of essential oil (blueberry, grapefruit or lemon) and enough warm water to make an even paste. Put on a bathing glove and start massaging your body with the mixture. Pay special attention to your thighs, behind and stomach. This peeling will relieve you of dead skin cells, cleanse pores, and activate the capillaries, enhancing lymph-drainage. You’ll get rid of various toxins this way.

Pay special attention to your face, avoiding any aggressive substances. Put 6 drops of essential oil (lavender, camomile or ylang-ylang) in a bowl of lukewarm water. Dip a cotton ball in it and apply to your face and neck. Rinse after 5 minutes. Follow with your usual face care routine. After you apply the face cream, massage your face with a few ice cubes in a plastic bag.

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Stop biting your nails!

2005-11-12T20:59:00.000+01:00

It’s not nice

Nail biting is a disastrous habit. It’s almost normal to do it when young, in school or even college. But once you reach the age of 20, you should really stop biting your nails.

Some statistics show that almost 20 per cent of adults bite their nails all the time, while most of us, girls especially, have episodes of nail-biting from time to time.

Nail biting is usually connected with nervousness, stress, impatience and boredom while physical look of the nails can be a trigger too. That means when you damage or brake your nail, you are most certain to bite it, in order to smooth it out (sounds familiar?)

It’s very difficult to resist the habit and the temptation, but we’d like to help with some tips and tricks, all in order to maintain your beautiful nails beautiful.

It’s important to realise how do you actually start biting your nails. Do you cup you hand or examine your nails? Once you recognise the pre-nail-biting behaviour, stop it. One of the best ways to do this is to keep your hands occupied. You can grab an armrest, hold the pencil more firmly or just gently grab your knee.

File your nails straight across, preferably with an emery board. Buy a cuticle cream and make the skin surrounding your nails soft and healthy. Coat your nails in lemon juice or pepper sauce when at home. In fact, any bitter, foul testing substance will do (Beware not to put your fingers near your eyes!). You can wear thin cotton gloves as well.

Get rid of stress, exercise, practice yoga or listen to relaxing music. Make your nails and hands attractive and well maintained. Polish them, use moisturising cream and wear jewellery. A great guide on keeping nails neat and attractive can be found in our How to have great nails post.

New beauty trends

2005-11-11T16:37:00.000+01:00

Stay in with your makeup and style this winter

Every time has its fashion and beauty musts. For some of them (heavy foundation, bleeched hair, vamp eyes, dark lip liner and pale lipstick…) we are glad they are over, and for some we are going to grieve till they come back. Anyhow, whatever season it is in fashion world, every woman should be well informed and ready, prepared for the fast changing beauty musts.

After years of torture with all possible special details, heavy makeup and appliances, style is taking the more natural road. This is easy to see in these fall/winter catwalks, while the makeup and hairstyle follow.

Bronzers galore
It seems this winter no one is going to wear the pale looking skin. Bronzers, self-tanning lotions and sprays are becoming permanent items in cosmetic lines. Guess the stylists have figured out that lightly tanned skin is so much easier to makeup, and looks 100 percent more radiant and healthy. If you are sceptic about self-tanning lotions, or just can’t put them on properly, use one of many body lotions that contain mild pigment activating formulas. Or, apply sun to your face only: Makeup as usual, instead of a blush use a bronzer. Cheek bones, some to the chin and some to the forehead, and you’re ready to impress.

Natural looking hair
Loose, unstyled and wavy are the looks to go for. This could be a bit more difficult to achieve than it sounds, so get a nice, easy to maintain haircut. Layered if you have wavy hair, straight hair looks good with no bangs. Hair styling is much more feminine this season, so no harsh finish (sprays, gels…) are allowed. Just wash your hair, spray on a leave in conditioner and let it dry naturally. One other thing, showing roots is in (but not really if you’re originally very dark haired and have bleached your hair, then you’re stuck with it). Famous hair stylists suggest highlights, in warm, sunny colours.

Sensual, full lips
Dark lipsticks are definitely out. Use bright colours, or go bare, with a fair amount of lip-gloss. If your lips are thin, try one of dozens ‘lip plumpers’ that can be purchased in any good cosmetics shop. One additional advice is to paint your lips with a slightly glittery lipstick and apply additional gloss only in middle of the upper and lower lip. Read detailed instructions to perfect lip makeup here.

Simplicity in the nail department
The nails are worn simple this fall/winter. Carefully crafted nail arts, artificial nails and French manicure won’t get you any appreciative looks. The way to go is short (just above your fingertips), one colour, preferably round manicure. A great guide to Essential nail care can be found on our site.

And for last, it’s good to follow trends, but as long as it suits you. Read how not to dress and makeup in our Top ways to look ridiculous post

Commonsense diet tips 2

2005-11-08T23:46:00.000+01:00

Tips and tricks to help you stay on track
(part two)

After we gave you the first dieting help tips and tricks, we take your diet plan a step farther. These dietary guidelines, most of which are only commonsense every day advice, can make your weight loss programme much easier. So here it goes:

Eat healthy and organised
Fast food should never be your choice. Even salads can hide tons of bad things that your healthy diet plan just won’t hold. The only thing suitable to keep on loosing pounds is to plan ahead. Take time to prepare a snack or lunch box. Put some healthy foods in your drawer at work. Depending which diet you’re on, consider muesli bars, dried apple chips, pieces of fresh fruit (just don’t forget about it) or perhaps your favourite nut mix.

Soup speeds up your metabolism
Nothing’s better than a pot of hot soup in this cold weather. You have to eat it slowly and it really fills your belly up, leaving you less likely to crave for that piece of white bread with butter. A good idea would be to make your own soup, as those canned can be full of fat and salt. Make and eat only clear soups, creamy ones are too caloric

Nothing, except water, is fat free
Rather eat proper food, with normal levels of everything, preferably organic, than deluding yourself with fat free and low fat foods. The latter ones can sabotage your diet plan completely, because you’ll eat much more of it, and it contains calories too, mostly from sugars, which are added to make the food tasty. Better to have a small piece of cheese than half a pound of the substitute one.

There’s no rush
You have only this one life, and you should love yourself enough to sit down and chew, concentrating on food only. If you’re late, better drink a big glass of water and grab a healthy snack then to push your food down the fastest you can. The first chance you have, close the doors, unplug the phone, turn off the TV and eat slowly. Your weight loss plan will thank you.

Start – stop – start – stop
We all get sick of it and splurge. We break and eat everything we can get hold of. It’s ok, people make mistakes and break their diets. But be sure to forgive yourself and get back on track the very next day. If you put it off too much, it’ll be much harder to go back to dieting after a week. If you’re concerned about the pound or two you missed loosing, try our express, but healthy, one-day diet. That’ll help you get back in the saddle.

Commonsense diet tips

2005-11-07T23:51:00.000+01:00

Tips and tricks to help you stay on track
(part one)

No matter what diet you’re on, there are some commonsense things you can do to help you stay on diet, feel less hungry and burn pounds faster. Although these sound like small, insignificant things, they can help you a lot.

Drink a lot of water
Water is good for your hair, skin and cells, it moisturises from the inside and washes away the toxins we put in. It’s also a great diet helper. Water has 0 calories, but takes up space in your stomach, so you’ll probably eat less for lunch if you drink a big glass of water first. Drink it cold, it’ll speed up your metabolism. And, by all means, remember that flavoured waters are not calorie free!

Write it down
Sometimes writing down things you eat during the day can help. Also, write down your weight every time you weigh yourself, it’ll be a solid proof of your progress. Write about the exercise you do and see yourself get into shape. Once you loose all the pounds you wanted to, put this journal visible, it’ll remind you of the hard work and stop you from gaining it again.

Don’t buy things you’re not supposed to eat
If you live alone, this shouldn’t be a problem. Make a shopping list and stick to it and never go to the supermarket hungry because then you’re more likely to buy junk. If you live with your family, explain your goal and see if anybody else is in. Loosing pounds in company is more fun, and you can’t cheat. Ask the ones not participating to eat the tempting bites outside. If you dine out a lot, read Dieting and eating out post.

Eat more small meals
Than one large one. By eating six or seven small meals you fool your body into believing it got more food. You also maintain high metabolism rate, so the calories are being burnt faster. A good thing too is that you’ll never be rally starving.

Don’t eat because you’re lonely, sad, need comfort
Food is something your body needs to keep on going. Many people eat not because they are feeling hungry, but for number of other reasons. Some even live to eat and food is the centre of their universe. Too much food can harm you, if you want to be successful at your diet, you should really change the way you look at food. Ask yourself: Am I really hungry? Do I really want to eat that burger/chips/pasta/cake?

Exercise
You don’t have to join a gym ore run if you don’t like it, but it’s essential that you do exercise. You can go to work by foot, take stairs instead of an elevator, ride a bike or go swimming. You can also do all the exercise you want in the privacy of your own home. Just move 3 to 5 times a week. It’s important to build up muscles, they burn calories up to 20 times faster then fatty tissue.

Dry skin remedies

2005-11-06T18:54:00.000+01:00

When we are teenagers, we’re glad to have dry skin. We never get pimples, our pores are not visible, there’s no greasy glitter… But those advantages seem to pass as soon as we hit our mid-twenties.

If we haven’t cared for our dry skin properly, giving it sufficient nourishment and hydration, we’ll get wrinkled very soon. So stop thinking and start acting if you have dry skin. Every day you mistreat it is one day of excessive skin aging.

Although you can’t make your dry skin to start producing needed oils, you can still do a lot. One of the most important things is to stop the moisture loss and by doing so, efficiently stop too soon wrinkling.

Don’t use heavy cosmetics and don’t change the products you use too often. It’s best not t use liquid foundations which absorb into skin, and also – go easy on makeup.

You should start your morning skin care routine by washing your face in lukewarm water. Tone with an alcohol-free toner and while your skin is still wet apply a moisturiser with sunscreen.

Remove your makeup in the evening with a gentle and nourishing cleansing milk. Rinse with warm water, tone and apply night hydrating crème with moist fingers. If you need to, use a special hydrating gel as well.

Along with proper skin care, you should follow some simple guidelines:

Stay away from the sun; apply a masque at least once a week (check this essential skin care post out for some great home-made recepies); avoid chlorate water; don’t ever use a peeling, it’ll do more harm than good. Central heating and dry air can harm your sensitive skin too, so put a humidifier in rooms you spend most time in.

Tea, coffee and alcohol have a dehydrating effect on the skin. Always drink a large glass of water before bedtime to re-hydrate the skin.

Neck skin is more sensitive than face skin. Avoid spraying perfume on the neck, especially during the day as sunlight can activate it causing irritation. Always apply a moisturiser to the neck using gentle, upward strokes.

Dandruff curse

2005-11-05T23:50:00.000+01:00

Get rid of flakiness!

We don’t know a single person that hasn’t had dandruff at least once in their life. Many things can cause these pesky flakes. Some of them are too oily hair and using too much styling products, also, some homemade hair recepies can harm your scalp too, so if you’re a fan of rinsing your hair with beer and have dandruff, think twice.

Whatever caused your dandruff; don’t ignore the flakes because they tend to get worse. And white flakes on your otherwise perfect little black dress look terrible! Like the commercial says, don’t change your dressing style…

Here are some anti-dandruff remedies and tips that work:

Non-medicated shampoos
When you first spot the dandruff, simply try to wash your hair more often, every day for example. Also, try buying and using some brand name non-medicated mild shampoo. Always shampoo twice, use the conditioner and hair styling products (mouse, spray, gel) avoiding roots and scalp.

Medicated shampoos
If the problem persists don’t hesitate to buy a medicated shampoo to solve your problem. Each product contains one active ingredient that has a specific effect.

Shampoos containing selenium sulphide or zinc pyrithione work fastest, because they slow down scalp cell multiplication. Those with salicylic acid and sulphur loosen flakes so they can be easily washed away. The ones with antibacterial agents cut down bacteria on the scalp and reduce the chance of infection, while those containing tar retard cell growth.

If it still doesn’t go away
Maybe you’re suffering from a more severe condition, called seborrheic dermatitis. Its treatment involves prescription medication, so you’ll have to visit your doctor and a specialist as well.

Other tips and tricks
Try to get rid of stress, because it can worsen the dandruff problem. Yoga, pilates, biking, walking and other outdoor activities are a good idea.

Some herbs can help you regain your hair. Thyme is one of them. Boil two tablespoons of thyme in one cup of water for about 10 minutes. Strain it and let cool down before you rinse your washed hair with it. Massage a bit and don’t rinse off.

Try not to scratch or you’ll bruise your scalp and that can lead to infection. Your hair will get used to the shampoo after a while and its effect will weaken. Use a different brand in this case.

At the end, words to cheer you up a bit. If you’re just suffering from an acute case if dandruff, which is the most prevalent form, it should clear up after a couple of weeks. So, to maintain dandruff free state, wash your hair as you used to before, and once a fortnight use an anti-dandruff shampoo.

Look beautiful all winter long

2005-11-04T23:20:00.000+01:00

Tips for skin and hair care during cold season

Although winter tends to bring dull, rainy, snowy and cold days, your skin and hair shouldn’t suffer. Your beauty care routine should change because both your hair and skin get dryer and more sensitive. We bring you fabulous tips and advice on hair and skin care during winter.

Skin
Your skin is going to dry up from heating and become flaky. Buy a new, more powerful moisturising cream, and use a special, hydration renewal night cream. Don’t forget your eye area, it deserves to have its own cream too.

Always wear sunscreen on your face, especially if the snow has fallen. Be persistent with your face care routine, which means cleanse, exfoliate, tone and moisturise. Apply lipbalm rather than licking your lips.

Cold weather reduces your skin’s blood circulation, so try to massage your face when applying moisturiser. Do this in small circular moves, gently pressing your face with fingertips. Start on your cheeks, and then move to forehead and chin.

The rest of your body deserves special care too. For feet care during winter, check this pedicure post out. On the rest of your body, wash and moisturise daily, use a peeling weekly. Don’t bathe or shower in too hot water, it will, in fact, sap moisture from your skin.

Hair
Wash hair no more than twice a week, in order to keep the natural oils our scalp produces, which protect our hair. Use deep moisturising hair masks. Excerpt from our hair trouble post: …You can use any deep conditioner you like, or you can simply put some olive oil on your hair and leave it for 20 minutes. The important thing is to cover your head in plastic cap after you apply the conditioner and put on it a warm towel (soaked in hot water for example)…

Brush your hair with natural bristle brushes; this will enhance shine since they distribute natural scalp oils.

Leave in conditioners can be hair lifesavers when the weather gets really cold. Use one in spray, for maximum convenience. Do this before blow-drying or when you are going out. It also makes your hair more manageable.

And if you’re constantly cold, read this get warm post!

Pamper your feet!

2005-11-03T22:14:00.000+01:00

A good thing to do before winter is to pay attention to your feet. They’ll be spending more and more time in tight shoes and boots, hardly getting any air. Plus, you can get severe ingrown nails, blisters and all kinds of feet problems when you don’t maintain your feet and soles. Harsh and damaged skin on your feet and soles can ruin your nylons and stockings too.

Giving your feet a proper pedicure can be a lifesaver. The best way to do it, of course, is to visit a beautician or a salon, but those can be pricy. If you have the money then put your feet in professional hands at least once a month. But if you’re short of cash (or on a limited budget) twice a year should suffice (best before summer and before winter). In the meantime you can pedicure your feet yourself, at home!

Here are home pedicure tips, easy and flawless:

Soak
Soak your feet in warm water for at least 10 to 15 minutes. Use milk instead of water if you want to treat your feet to the fullest. Just warm up some milk and put your feet in.

Get rid of hard skin
Pat your feet with a towel, but let them a bit moist. Use a pumice stone or a foot file to get rid of hard skin on your heels and toes. Rinse often and don’t be too harsh. Better take off thin layers at time.

Cut nails
Dry your feet properly. Cut your nails in a straight line. Use a file to get the shape you want and to remove any sharp edges. Use a polish remover to get rid of old nail polish.

Cream
Apply a generous amount of cream. Massage your feet while the skin is absorbing the cream. Put some cuticle oil on and gently push up your cuticles.

Nail polish
Wipe your nails, even though the cream is completely absorbed. If any cream is left on your nails polish won’t dry or stick to your toenails. Put on a base coat, splurge some polish and top with topcoat. Remember, it takes about 7 to 10 minutes for the polish to dry thoroughly. If you don’t want to put nail polish on, buff your nails to make them shine.

You should do this routine at least once a month.

In the meantime
In time between your pedicures, don’t forget your feet. Every day, after showering or bathing, (be sure to dry your feet thoroughly) treat your feet with a fair amount of cream. The best way to do it is when you’re already in bed. If the cream absorbs slowly, put on a pair of cotton socks. Your feet will appreciate creams with peppermint or tea-tree.

A good idea to make your next pedicure easier is to use foot scrub or a peeling once a week. It’ll get rid of dead skin cells and hardskin will form slower.

What to do with powder?

2005-11-02T22:36:00.000+01:00

Foundation, concealer, liquid or loose powder

Powder is a great accessory to make your face look great and to hide those little things that bother you. We present you with two simple ways to put your powders at best possible use.

Fresh, no-makeup look
Put spots of concealer under you eyes and on every spot (blemish, pimple etc.) you want to conceal. Make sure that the colour blends perfectly with your skin tone; otherwise you'll get the reverse affect of exaggerating the things you want to hide. For some great tips on how to hide things you don’t want to be seen read this post.

Pat the concealer gently with your fingers and blend in with a brush.

Put some loose powder over your whole face with a brush, to fixate the concealer and get rid of that excess shine. A good idea would be to use translucent powder, in order to avoid any colour build-up, but to give you the matte finish.

Apply some light makeup and you’re ready to go!

A sophisticated look
Put on some liquid powder or a foundation. Always shake the bottle well before applying it, because pigment can settle at the bottom and give you an uneven finish.

To get the best results start with cleansed, toned and moisturised skin. Apply foundation to the centre of the face, across your nose and cheeks then blend out over the face.

Use your fingers rather than a sponge. The heat of your fingers makes the foundation melt into the skin better. Make-up sponges can skid across the surface and leave streaks.

Next, apply the concealer to the inner parts of your eyes, under eyes and on all imperfections. Blend well with the foundation.

Apply some loose powder all over your face, and then use another big soft brush to get rid of access powder.

You’re ready to put on some heavy-duty makeup, which will last all day long.

Complexes and how to get rid of them

2005-11-01T23:41:00.000+01:00

You’re not perfect. So what?

None of us is perfect. There is no such thing as a perfect looking girl. No one has perfect hair, skin, butt, legs or breasts, all combined in one convenient package. And, instead of buying tons of makeup, expensive cosmetics, anti-cellulite creams, or working out stiff, we suggest to all of you: get over it.

We girls are experts in growing complexes. We can convince ourselves we have big behinds, fat arms or grouse hair. And that’s just our bodies. Many women also think they are stupid, or less intelligent than men they are with. Most women are uncomfortable in groups and when they have to express their opinion. And no matter how enlightened we are, we still introduce ourselves with a question mark following.

So, here’s one word of advice: Even though you observe yourselv through a magnifying glass, trust us, no one else has that magnifier!

Here are some usual women complexes, and ways to deal with them:

I’m fat
This is the no 1 complex women in developed countries have. Although it’s not a surprising, considering TV, magazine and billboard bombing us with diet programs and images of beautiful, slim and young bodies, suggesting we all should look like that.

Wait a minute, won’t you! Models from magazines and actresses in movies don’t have anything to do with the real world. They are paid to look like that; many of them are dangerously malnourished just because it’s their job. And, if they gain a pound or two, get a pimple or have ingrown hairs, they have hordes of expert beauticians, fashion advisors and private coaches at their disposal.

Here’s the fun part of being ‘normal’. People will notice Julia Roberts gained 8 pounds, but they won’t give a damn if you do! No one, except yourself, expects you to be perfect. You’ll be much happier to except your body and your looks. This doesn’t mean to give up exercising or skin care, but be reasonable.

I have a big behind
Do you think you have a big butt? Do you spend hours in front of a mirror, trying out clothes and observing how your butt looks in it? Do you wish your butt fat could magically transform into larger tits?

It’s time you stop spending so much time in front of a mirror and start doing exercises for your behind. You can tone it up, add more muscle and by treating it to some good hydrating lotion make your skin like babies. But, you can’t make it much smaller, so get used to it. Better to have a butt than not to have it.

In fact, if you think you have a big behind, put on some really tight jeans, and go for a walk. Look how many men will turn their heads to look at it and be proud. Yes, big bums are sexy!

He thinks I’m stupid
Do you often feel you perfectly succeed in making a fool out of yourself? Do you have problems approaching people, going out with cute guys, just because you think you’re stupid? Do you stay silent even if you have an opinion on a subject?

Yes, you are being stupid, but just because of acting so frightened. If a man likes you, it’s not just because of your looks. You should start building up self-confidence fast. A good way to do it is to talk to a new person everyday, reading newspapers (so you’ll know what’s going on), and watching the news.

Besides, you should never think you are stupider than the man you’re with. Don’t forget, you probably know 10 times more things than he does (it’s a scientific fact that women end their education with more knowledge than men). Also, when you are introducing yourself, look the person in the eye, and say your name loud and clear.

Why is face care so important?

2005-10-31T20:06:00.000+01:00

Cleanse Tone Exfoliate Moisturise

It’s easy when you pass your teens. You get rid of acne, your hormones get to standard levels and your face skin starts to clear up. If you follow our four simple rules you can keep beautiful young skin all through your twenties and thirties.

Balanced diet, hydration and protecting from sun and wind should be a part of your daily regimen. Once proper care becomes a habit it won’t be a bore anymore, but remember, if you want to have lovely skin, you have to work on it!

Cleanse
Cleansing your face is a must to avoid acne and remove your makeup. You should wash your face at least twice a day. In the morning to get rid of oils that built up overnight and in the evening to get rid of makeup. Find a mild cleanser or a soap that won’t irritate your skin, rinse thoroughly and wipe the water off with a clean towel.

Tone
Many women skip toners in their daily routine, which is a big mistake. Toner cleans the face further, cools it down, hydrates and nourishes. It also closes the pores and tightens the skin. Use an alcohol free toner.

Exfoliate
Remove dead skin cells at least once in two weeks, but not more than twice a week. You can get rid of small wrinkles this way and give your face an extra fine glow.

Moisturising
You should use a daily moisturiser, and a sun block as well. Avoid putting the moisturiser around your eyes; you should use a special eye cream for that purpose because the skin is different. Also, don’t forget to use the night moisturiser.

How to keep the breasts we have?

2005-10-30T21:28:00.000+01:00

Keeping the perky look

A great deal of woman’s beauty lies upon her breasts. Not only do we need them to make our cleavage nice, but they also make our figure more attractive. Even if we exercise every day, only a few of us pay attention to breast area.

Breasts are made of milk glands and tissue, but have no muscles of their own. That is the main reason they give in to gravity with age, but excessive weight loss and gain, pregnancy and skin dehydration accelerate this process. If you are happy with the way your breasts look, read on how to make them stay that way, and if you want to improve the looks of ypur breasts, you’ve come to the right place.

The following tips will help you keep your breasts firm, young and beautiful:

Showering
When under a shower, direct the water flow to your breasts. Turn the water on cold and massage your breasts with the water beam. Count to one hundred for every breast. Also do your upper arms. After douching and drying up, put on some firming cream.

Posture
If you straighten your body posture, your breasts are instantly looking higher and firmer. When you straighten your neck, put your shoulders back and keep your back upright, your breasts can lean on the four chest muscles underneath. This way your whole body looks thinner and more elegant.

Peeling
For achieving elastic and soft skin peeling is a must. You can use any product you like or try home made we suggest: Take a handful of sea salt and gently massage your whole body, paying special attention to breasts. Or you can mix 4 tablespoons of powdered oat, 4 tablespoons of brown sugar, 4 tablespoons of aloe and 2 teaspoons of lemon juice. After showering the peeling off, use a hydrating or a firming lotion.

Special care
Many home made cosmetic masks can help your breasts. One of them is papaya. Simply peel a papaya, put it in a blender and process. Apply the mask once a week for half an hour. To rejuvenate the skin use half of an avocado (blend in a blender), which will make the small wrinkles disappear. Watermelon will make your skin glow. Simply mash two slices up (get rid of seed first) and leave it on for half an hour.

Exercise!
Breasts relay on four chest muscles for holding them up. So, a good idea would be to make those strong in order to have firm breasts. Here are some exercises: 1. Get down on your hands and knees, spread arms a bit wider than your shoulders are. Straighten your back and slowly bend your elbows, until you touch floor with your breasts. Pull up. 2. Lie on your back and pull your legs up, bend them. Take a small weight in each hand, put them up and slowly lower them over your head. Take them back up and between your legs. Your back shouldn’t move during this exercise. Do every exercise 5 times 5 repetitions at first, slowly build your repetition number to 10.

Fatty habits

2005-10-29T20:09:00.000+02:00

Self-sabotaging your diet

Ok, you’re around your goal weight or are trying to loose a couple of pounds, but whatever you do they keep coming back. You work out harder, eat less and buy only fat-free, sugar-free and skimmed products, but that last pounds just won’t slide off you.

Is it maybe that you’re self-sabotaging your own diet?

Although you will probably say ‘No way’, check out this fatty habits most of us have. Once you get rid of them, the pounds will come right down.

Big meals
For years now restaurants are serving larger and larger servings, plates got bigger and packages in supermarkets too. Think about what you’re doing and order a small pizza, or share a meal with someone. Eat slowly and soon you’ll realize you’ve had enough. Also, read our Dieting and eating out post for some great tips.

Fatigue
You should sleep at least 7 hours a day. Tired body has less energy to process sugars and fats. Moreover, if you messed your biorhythm up, you’ll soon find yourself eating a big dinner at 3 am. Our tip is: sleep well and rest whenever you can.

Not eating fruit
Fruit is the best source of vitamins and antioxidants; it contains natural sugars and fibre. It helps you stay the way you like it by keeping you away from sweets and chocolate. If bananas apples and oranges bore you, browse the market and try one of 1000 other fruits that exist.

Office
You sit at your desk, don’t move for hours and then, for your brake, order a take-out delivery. A better way is to buy a salad, fruit and mineral water and go for a walk. In these 30 minutes you shouldn’t think about work and try to relax.

I’ve earned it
Don’t work out too furiously; the studies suggest that women who do that eat 51% more calories than the ones that exercise in normal tempo. This is because they subconsciously think they’ve earned the right to an extra chocolate. Working out is no excuse for a calorie suicide.

Fibre
Fibre is healthy for you. It keeps your indigestion running smoothly and your tummy full. You should eat 8 different fruits and vegetables each day to fill your body with enough fibre.

Sodas and alcohol
When you drink sodas or alcoholic drinks, you introduce calories in your organism with no nutritional value. It’s better to have natural juices and mineral water. If you have to, drink a spritzer, a mixture of white vine and sparkling mineral water.

Being pessimistic
It’s as easy as that: If you don’t believe you can loose weight, it’s probably going to be true. Set high goals for yourself and use the scale every day. Most importantly, believe in your plan! If you’re blue, try to read our How to deal with blues post.

Sugar and fat free
Your body reacts badly if you give it something sweet, but with no real sugar in it. It compensates the sugars with eating too much. The same goes for fat free products. The newest studies prove that if you eat healthy but original food, with normal levels of sugars and fat, you’ll loose weight quicker and discipline yourself better.

Serious beauty mistakes we all make

2005-10-28T16:55:00.000+02:00

Have you ever felt like you never achieve the level of beauty cover girls have? Although it’s obvious that they get a lot of help from their friend Photoshop, we ‘normal girls’ deserve to look refined, and, yes, expensive.

This doesn’t mean buying tons of really expensive cosmetics, clothes and make up, it’s enough to stay clear of these usual beauty mistakes.

Looking shabby
It’s important to look and feel beautiful, even when you’re alone at home. This, of course, means: brush your hair and teeth and wear decent clothes (even your old sweatshirt can look ok if it’s washed and spotless).

Poor mouth hygiene
Even though your teeth are healthy, and you haven’t had a toothache in months, how about visiting a dentist to get rid of calc, built up by drinking red vine, smoking and coffee? Also, brush your teeth after every meal and floss. This way your teeth will stay healthy and you won’t have trouble with bad breath.

Damaged hands
You should really pay attention to your hands, nails as well. Check out our How to have great nails and Nail care and how to do it (properly) posts. A good idea is to carry a small pack of hand cream in your handbag, so you can put it on whenever your hands need it.

Tweezed too much?
Be sensible when tweezing your brows. Read Perfect brows 1-2-3 post. Take your time when doing the brows, they grow rather slowly. If you make a mistake, use a pencil to cover it up.

Too much powder and makeup
Your foundation or your powder shouldn’t be too heavy, the same goes for the rest of your makeup too. If you overdue, it can make you look dramatic, even cheap for that matter. It will also make your pores clog, which results in small wrinkles, acne, blemishes and all the other stuff you don’t want on your face.

Not cleaning your makeup accessories
You should clean your brushes, sponges, puffs and all other beauty gear at least once a week, and replace them at least once in three months time. Oils and bacteria tend to build up in accessories, and if your skin is prone to acne, you’ll be surprised how much this tactic can help.

Too dark lip liner
This is a major mistake many women do. Your lip liner (pencil) should be the exact colour as your lipstick, and never darker. You see, when the lipstick melts way you are left with a dark circle around your lips, and that looks very unattractive. Use the lip liner to enhance the lipstick and make it more durable, for further tips, read our Absolutely fabulous lips article.

Not removing makeup from your face
You should never, never be too tired to take the makeup off. If you go to sleep with your makeup still on, the next morning your pores will be clogged, skin irritated and makeup much more difficult to get rid off. So, take that ten needed minutes and remove your makeup.

Liquid eyeliner disaster
With liquid eyeliners the trick is practice and steady hand. A crooked, uneven line is not the look you should be going for. Practice, look for liners with small, firm, preferably tiny padded points. If you still can’t do it, use pencil instead.

Roots showing?
When you are thinking about dying your hair, think twice. You’ll need to touch up your roots every 3 to 4 weeks and dye your hair all over every 6 to 8 weeks. Can you afford it? Also, when going blonde, think about what peroxide does to your hair. Is it worth it?

Treating your hair harsh
Don’t bind your hair too tightly. It can make you look more serious than you wanted and cause a headache too.

Doing makeup under insufficient light
You can get wrong colours, thicker and harsher lines or miss a spot, when doing your makeup under soft, insufficient light. Always try to be facing a window if it’s light outside. If you usually do your makeup at night, get stronger bulbs.

Boring makeup
Doing the same thing every day, using same colours and techniques, even the products are the same? It’s time for a change. Experiment with colours and techniques. You’ll be surprised to see how different you can look.

Hair treatments: do they really work?

2005-10-27T14:27:00.000+02:00

(part one)

Although we love hair products as all other girls, it’s time to face the truth, not everything you read in magazines or see in commercials is true. In fact, it’s far from true sometimes. So, here it goes: Shampoos get dirt out of your hair and make it smell lovely, and that’s about it.

Surprised? We sure were.

These days every major hair product producer is issuing a special ‘strengthening’ line. Not only do they promise sleek, miles long hair, but they also promise to do it on permed or colour – damaged hair. Accompanied with a bright red NEW sticker, products come with claims, for example laboratory tests that prove that their shampoo will get your hair 60 percent stronger.

Yeah right.

We are pushed to think that keratin, amino acids and other proteins and vitamins will charge directly from the shampoo and into your every hair, from top to the end, and miraculously transform it into undamaged, shiny bunch of hair. The truth is that very little of the product ever penetrates your hair. And the tests are done when the shampoo is still on.

You are better off with a good haircut (cutting off those split ends), eating vegetables and fruit, taking vitamin and mineral supplements, and all of those other things we described in Hair trouble post.

Moreover, be careful when shampooing. Shampoo only once, with a small amount of product, and rinse thoroughly. This is because, while shampoo really cleans your hair, it also cleans out the natural hair oil that makes your hair shiny and strong.

You see, even fortifying shampoos can make your hair, in fact, weaker.

Have you ever tried to wash your hair with shampoo and then rinse it and dry it? Without using a conditioner? Yes, your hair is coarse, tangly and dull. It doesn’t matter which brand you use or how much you paid for it. Shampoo is a detergent like the ones we use when cleaning the bathroom or washing the dishes.

So, if a shampoo should make your hair shiny and beautiful, why do you have to use the conditioner? Answer to this question in one of our next posts.

How to fight PMS?

2005-10-25T19:19:00.000+02:00

Those days of the month are coming, and you are starting to feel tense and excessively sensitive. Some months you could rip someone’s head off, and usually you are verbally aggressive. If you’d like to change the way premenstrual syndrome (PMS) affects you, read on sisters!

Don't let your body intimidate you. The remedy is at hand’s reach; it can be as easy as nibbling on some cheese. The fact is, calcium and D vitamin rich diet can prevent PMS in women between 20 and 40 years of age. So, eat more milk, spinach, yogurt and cheese before your period.

Another thing that helps is cutting cigarettes and coffee. Caffeine can enhance PMS, raising levels of anxiety, insomnia, nervousness and irritability. Lowering the number of coffees you drink can bring instant relief.

Nicotine is even worse when PMS is concerned, so think about quitting if you have really bad symptoms. Drinking alcohol is an unwise decision too, because alcohol drains B vitamin from body, messes carbs metabolism up and burdens the liver.

Do your breasts and tummy swell when expecting the period? Do you suffer from headaches? Fluid retention is primarily caused by too salty food, so try lowering your salt intake. Your body will remain normal and you won’t have headaches, as brain cells retain water too.

Don’t overdue on chocolate and sweets. Better choices are complex carbohydrates, such as integral cereals, pulse, fresh fruit and vegetables.

If all of this doesn’t help, consult your doctor, and find out which options are available except drinking pills. It may be acupuncture, massage or even naturally hormone-enriched foods.

Also, try this out if you get heavy cramps: put your palm on the inner part of your leg just above the ankle. The point above your hand is the one to press, like on pictures. The method is: press for 6 seconds, then release for two, press again and repeat for 5 minutes. Do the same with the other leg. Acupressure experts say that this massage enhances blood flow to uterus, and therefore relieves from pain.

How to have great nails?

2005-10-24T23:06:00.000+02:00

Be kind to your nails, they’ll return the favour

One of the most important things to remember is: your hands are out there. People judge other people by hands, and through it, nails. Nothing worse than unmanicured, dirty nails (except if your work involves dealing with earth, which is then understandable).

As winter is coming along with big paces, our nails, with the rest of our body, deserves special care. Now is the time to repair all the neglect you given them through summer.

Start by eating properly. You should involve a lot of proteins, vitamins and minerals in your diet, especially those that build nails, like sulphur, calcium, iron, biotin, vitamins D, C, A and E and zinc. It’s enough to eat fish two times a week along with fresh season fruit and vegetables every day (french fries don’t qualify as vegetables, you cheaters). Don’t forget to eat some nuts, or perhaps some whole-wheat bread.

For your information, a lot can be said about a person from the nails.

Horizontal lines mean poor indigestion.

Vertical ones mean poor indigestion, paired with poor vitamin and mineral absorption, with low levels of B12 vitamin and iron insufficiency.

White spots indicate calcium and zinc insufficiency, they appear usually after you ate sugary things for a long while.

Bite nails can indicate nervousness, mineral lackage and intestine parasites.

Nails that are very bent downward can mean that the person lacks vitamin C, protein and folic acid.

Fragile nails indicate iron and vitamin A insufficiency, as well as thyroid glens and kidney malfunction or poor circulation.

Broken nails show poor stomach indigestion.

Purplish red nail colour means low energy and overall tiredness.

Dark red nails mean poor circulation due to excessive fatty and salty eating.

Yellowish nails can suggest liver malfunction.

Blue nail colour indicates improper lung and heart function.

Pail nails mean poor circulation, anaemic blood and low body energy.

Give your nails a full beauty salon treatment – at home. This treatment will help your nails get strong again, and ready to face the coldness of winter.

First of all, cut your nails short. Don’t worry, they’ll grow back in no time, but it’s maybe time to give them some rest. Then soak your nails in some warm water, to which you added a few drops of lemon juice. Take them out and before they dry brush nails with a soft bristle brush, to clean and massage them.

Soak them again and let them dry in air. Now massage every nail with sesame oil, or try this mix out: 50 grams of almond oil, 2 drops of each essential oil as follows lavender, sandalwood and cypress. When you’re done, sweep the excess oil with a tissue and apply a coat of straightening polish on.

Do this twice a week, for a period of four weeks, and you’ll se how healthier and stronger your nails will get. You can let them grow back than, and apply the routine only once a week.

Results

2005-10-23T21:16:00.000+02:00

And now, here are the results of the test we let you answer in the previous post. Read on and learn something about yourself!

39 and more points

No thinking, just acting

When in bed, you forget all restrictions: you express yourself freely, pursue all instincts and wishes. You are a passionate and sensual woman, which has no breaks or boundaries. To indulge in such a passionate play, you don’t need a bed, Kamasutra or a Sex Machine for a partner, your only requests are a relaxed man and a situation you are completely comfortable with. Beware: since you let all your guards down and switch your brain off during lovemaking, letting any erotic spur lead you, it may come as a surprise that some men will find you intimidating, and you may end up disappointed.

31 to 39 points

Thinking and acting

You are not too bothered or worried about anything when sex’s concerned. You feel free and without inhibitions. Of course, your sexual fantasies differ from sexual and emotive situations in real life, but you except the fantasies calmly, as a way of fuelling your sexual energy. Between sheets you except your partner’s wishes and urges while trying to express your own, although you apply some censorship. You drive your wishes through a filter, training self-control, mostly because you understand that not all is appropriate for that situation and partner.

21 to 30 points

More thinking than acting

Your sexual wishes and urges are rather different from the things you really do in bed. Your inner thoughts are often very sex-specific, but you are not always aware of your wishes or keep them very deeply hidden. But that does not mean that you are incapable of letting go, it’s usually with a great partner or in an extremely sexy situation that you can’t resist. You are not without initiative in love and sex, but your wishes and fantasies are much more than you let yourself express. Maybe the problem lies in too much daydreaming or too kinky fantasies, so you apply conscious brakes out of fear of judgment. If so, you should learn to relax and accept your corporal urges and erotic wishes as something completely normal.

Less than 21 points

Maybe you think, but you sure enough don’t do

You are very aware of spiritual, intellectual and emotive pleasures, but sexual ones are a mystery to you. You are an emotional person, perhaps a bit flirty and like it when men court. But, since you are more of a spiritual than a sensual type, when sex is concerned you’re on a special diet. It’s not about quantity of sexual intercourses, but instead you don’t let yourself speak freely about anything sex-related, out of fear. Maybe you have a rich and unusual erotic fantasy world, and maybe you’re constrained in your fantasies too, the thing is, you never do what you think about. It doesn’t mean that you are cold in bed, but you could give much more, to your partner, but to yourself too.

Are you a thinker or a doer in bed?

2005-10-22T19:59:00.000+02:00

A test to let you know how you behave in bed

Can you let your fantasy run wild and explore, or are you too frightened to loose control? Find out how relaxed and naughty you are when bed fun is concerned:

When you really think about it, it’s not so difficult to find harmony with your darling when it comes to sex. No real guy is going to expect of you to know Kamasutra by heart or have tons of experience. It is often enough to do what you feel, let your impulses and imagination lead you, without too much hesitation.

But, because of shyness, aggressiveness, eager to please him, upbringing and fear to project as too much or too little experienced, our behaviour in bed is far from what we want or feel completely happy with. Can you relax? If yes, how much? The path to answering the questions is in front of you, but only if you complete the test truthfully.

1. He invited you over to his place tonight, and you are pretty sure how the evening’s gonna end. During the day you are:

a) enjoying in advance

b) a bit excited but tense as well

c) so involved in your own problems you don’t have time to think

2. For some time bow you have this erotic dream or a secret wish that you're afraid to commit. How do you act?

a) You are going to tell your partner about it.

b) You think about it while making love to your partner

c) You are embarrassed and are trying to forget it, because your dream was too hot

3. You know you are going to meet the guy you fancy today. You put on your sexy laundry because:

a) you like wearing it and feel sexy

b) you like it, but you hope he’s gong to like it too

c) of him. You like practical, preferably pure cotton underwear.

4. When you are engaged in sexual pleasure, your ability to think rationally is:

a) close to zero: your brain is shut down

b) you turn your brain off and on

c) you are always able to think rationally

5. How would you like your partner to be in moments of passion?

a) The same like you, somewhat free with some restrictions

b) Exactly like you

c) A little bit more conservative, some of his demands make you uncomfortable

6. Your sex life is:

a) Turbulent, full of ups and downs

b) Great, full of excitement

c) Monotone

7. Speaking generally when you work and in everyday living, you are:

a) the initiator: brave an not afraid to risk

b) balanced: whatever you do, you always play safe

c) careful: often indecisive and afraid of possible mistakes

8. You’re having your first romantic dinner with the man that attracts you. You are talking about:

a) something provocative, related to love and sex

b) his past, even from long, long ago and about his exes

c) your work

9. He brought you to your apartment door and would like to ask him in for a nightcap, but it’s only your second date:

a) You do not hesitate to ask him in

b) You give him a promising kiss and run away like Cinderella

c) You think that a goodnight peck on the cheek is enough

10. You feel connected to a guy if:

a) You feel you can talk to him about everything and ask him anything.

b) You wishes are the same.

c) He is capable of reading your thoughts and lets you know what he wants.

11. He had a problem performing in bed, but he swears he loves you.

a) You try to do something extremely sexy, something that would arouse a dead man.

b) You don’t want to attack or pressure him. He’ll do better next time.

c) You tell him that it’s ok and that you’re not worried.

12. You’re in bed with the man you love, but are fantasising about that sexy neighbour of yours. You think of your fantasy:

a) positively, it enhances your excitement

b) Maybe you’d like not to have that fantasy right now, but except it as natural

c) It ruins your mood completely because you have bad conscious

13. What does the word ‘wish’ mean to you:

a) Pleasant wishes that you pursue to please

b) Something sinful, but you indulge yourself from time to time.

c) Food cravings, like pregnant women have.

14. Your ‘love beast’ should be.

a) Obedient like a dog, but perverse like a snake

b) Provocative like a cat but wild like a wild horse

c) Nice like a dolphin and gentle like Bamby

15. If saying ‘NO’ was not an option, with which of the three stranger would you spend the night:

a) An inexperienced young man, looking for his first lessons

b) An exciting waiter, whom you seduced in a bar

c) A manly truck driver

16. While making sweet love to your darling you:

a) Whisper passionate words and provocative wishes in his ear

b) Let him know how much you like the things he’s doing

c) Shut up, in fear of spoiling it all

Now, for every A answer, give yourself 3 ponts, for every B 2 points and for C 1 point. Sum it all up and read us again tomorrow, when you’re test results will be ready.

Perfect brows 1-2-3

2005-10-20T23:32:00.000+02:00

Tweezing and waxing your brows away (with some trimming along)

Whatever you do, whichever cosmetic products you use, no matter how expensive they are, nothing will mean a thing if you don’t have nice eyebrows. You can get your brows in shape by visiting a beautician, and then just maintain them at home, tweezing each brow-hair as it appears.

But what if you let them grow wild, they’re all over your face and all beauty parlours are closed? Learn here how to shape your brows to perfection and you’ll never have to worry again.

Before any hair removing takes place, make sure your face is clean, your hands as well. Be ready to suffer some pain, because skin under and around eyebrows is very sensitive. If you’re hyper pain-not-resistant, prepare some ice cubes to freeze slightly the skin and diminish the pain (when waxing), or shape your brows immediately after taking a shower (when tweezing). Next, comb your brows with a clean toothbrush.

The first thing to do is to determine what your eyebrows should look like. This is done wit some help of a ruler or a very long pen, if you have it.

To determine how long your brows should be, hold a ruler parallel to your nose. Level the ruler with the inner corner of the eye, and you’ve found where your brow should begin. Mark the correct point with a dot using a kohl pencil or similar.

The tricky part is the arch, or where the highest point of your brow should be. Avoid creating an unnaturally exaggerated arch; the shape you’re aiming for is thicker at the inner corner, tapering out over the brow bone. The best way to do this is by holding a ruler from the edge of the nostril past the outer edge of the iris (the colored part of the eye) and up to the eyebrow. Mark the spot with a dot.

‘Connect’ the nostril and the outer corner of your eye with a ruler and you’ll find where your brows should stop. Now link up the dots in a gentle arch to draw the ideal shape of your eyebrow. This will give you a guideline to go by waxing and tweezing.

If you’re about to use wax, do yourself a favour and buy a professional kit for waxing: a jar or a tube of wax ready to be heated in boiling water. Use a small spatula and apply only small amounts of wax at time. Put a muslin strip on it and remove it as soon as you can (consult the instructions that came with the wax, products vary). Do this in the opposite way of hair-growth, while pulling skin with your other hand.

Don’t wax above the brow, only underneath. If any hairs are leftover, tweeze it. You can also tweeze any strand hair above the brow.

Tweezing is a simpler solution; you only need a good pair of tweezers. They come in three basic shapes: thin tip is good for grasping small, fine hairs, and plucking ingrown hair, slanted tip gives maximum control while square tip is used for removing coarse hairs or several hairs at a time.

For brows to be just perfect, once you’re done with tweezing or waxing, comb brows upwards and trim any hairs that stick out too much. When you’re buying cosmetics next time, try to look for a good brow pencil. You can correct any mistakes you’ve made while removing brow hair with it (filling the gaps) or enhance the natural colour of your eyebrows.

Perfect lashes

2005-10-20T03:58:00.000+02:00

Mascara tips and how-tos

It’s a simple truth: slap a concealer and some mascara on your face and you’re ready to go! It’s good for work, school, lunch or an evening out, providing that you know what you’re doing.

Here are some things to consider:

First colour your lover lashes. Do this gently and take care not to put too much mascara on. When doing the upper lashes, open your eyes wide and tilt your chin up, take the wand from the very base of the lashes and stroke through the length of the lashes.

Use eyelash curler, it'll become your best friend. The trick is to lightly powder lashes to give mascara a coat to stick to. Heat eyelash curler with hair dryer for a few seconds. Place the open curl near the lash roots and arrange your lashes between the two rims. Squeeze gently for thirty seconds. Squeeze again at mid-lash for another thirty-seconds. Apply mascara immediately.

If you’re applying more than one layer, let the first one dry properly. Be sure to cover the inner part of lashes too, your eyes will look bigger.

Black mascara is a standard, and you can’t go wrong there. But, if you’re blonde or have fair hair, you should consider brown mascara (or dark blue, which makes your eye whites whiter) for a more gentle everyday look.

You could try colourless mascara for achieving a nude look, so popular nowadays. Apply a layer, curl your lashes with eyelash curler and then stick another layer of mascara.

Shorter lashes benefit from a length enhancing type of mascara. Thinner lashes will become fuller with a thickening formula and longer lashes will really benefit from curling mascara. There is a product for everything, don’t be afraid to use it.

Consider using a waterproof mascara if you're always in a hurry (you can take a shower without having to redo your make-up), or going to an event that could make you cry (weddings). Also, if it’s looking like it’s going to rain. Waterproof mascara is more difficult to remove, so be sure you have an eye-makeup remover that’ll do the job.

Sex and couples

2005-10-18T00:48:00.000+02:00

I want an O too! (every time)

You’ve done it for the first time, everything went well, and you’ve done it a few times after that too. You had an O, well, at best, half of the times you two ended up in bed. Did he come? Sure he did. Did he ask you if you did? You answered yes, and even faked it, just to keep him feeling king of the world. It’s…you know…OK. Should you settle for OK? Hell no!

We know you don’t want to hurt his feelings, at least not this early in the relationship, but as an intelligent woman you must know that unsatisfactory sex leads only to unsatisfied girl. This can only mean unsatisfied living and a soon brake up. And we don’t want this to happen, do we?

So, the question is, how to tell him gently what it takes to please you in bed? Read on and you find out.

Men like to bring you to climax, it makes them feel able and manly. But, girl is very different to another girl, and so men can’t always know what makes you scream with pleasure.

Let him start as usual, either oral or manual foreplay. You just have to remember to put a loot of moans and ‘baby you’re soooo goood’ every few minutes.

Build up his confidence and then ask for whatever you want, jus as long as you tell it in soft, sexy tone. For example: -Baby it drives me mad when you fondle me with your hand, I’d like it even better if you used your other hand and put two fingers inside’

A good way to go is to ‘help’ him with your own hands, by gently rubbing your clitoris or moving your body while his head is between your thighs. If he strikes, try not to strangle him, but let him know that he’s on the right path.

Don’t let him stop the foreplay too soon. He must realize you need more time to get ready. If you notice he’s about to ‘get off the wagon’, try telling him something like: -Oh my God! You’re driving me mad! I’m seconds away! Don’t stop!’

Don’t feel bad if you’re not doing anything other than lying on your back. Enjoy, and if you want to, start fondling him as well. Do a 69-er if you’re up to it. If you reach an O during foreplay, you have more chance of repeating it during intercourse.

When you start doing it for real, put yourself first for once. But don’t forget to compliment him and then give the instruction. Like: Do it slower, I want to feel every inch of it! Take me from behind; I love it when it goes so deep! Touch me while you’re doing that!

With any luck, this should be enough for you to be satisfied. And once you started tipping him, it gets easier every time. You can even make a game out of it, he does something for you, and then you return the favour. Experiment, have fun, enjoy…

Proud to be a girl

2005-10-17T01:19:00.000+02:00

10 reasons why women are happier than men

Although it’s true that we get paid less for doing the same job, have to take care of children, house and go to work at the same time and are physically weaker, women are much happier than men. Don’t believe it? Read through and you’ll find out why.

Clothes: We can wear skirts, trousers and dresses, while men can put on only trousers (except for Scotsmen). There are more shops for women and we can choose from a grater variety of products. Plus: when it gets hot, we can put on a light dress and still look suitable for any occasion. Men on the other hand have to put on a suit, shirt and a tie to achieve the same.

Hair: We can make loads of stuff with our hair, wear hundreds of styles and best of all, a large majority of women will never loose their hair, whilst men get bald often, even in their young age.

Sex: The truth is that we only get better at sex with years; we learn new stuff and get to know our body better. At 18, men come like rabbits, at 25 they start to realise what sex really is, at 30 to 35 they practice good sex, and afterwards it’s down the slope for them. I mean, is there Viagra for women?

Free time: We do what we want with our free time. We can go shopping, watch soaps, go out with friends or read a book, while men have to go to the stupid football match.

Health: Women handle stress much better than men. Our bodies disintegrate stress hormones (adrenalin and cortisol) faster. And, we are less likely to get into fights, we are rarely professional boxers or do hazardous sports.

Life span: Women live longer than men, up to seven years to be exact.

Feelings: We can talk about our feelings, cry on someone’s shoulder and get it out. Men do the opposite: they hide it all inside and usually get ulcers because of it. We are mentally saner.

Scent of smell: We enjoy good scents more. The smell of freshly made coffee, or a bouquet of flowers can make us feel happy.

Cosmetics: We have make up that helps us hide all the things we don’t want to be seen. For example, after a night out and a lot of booze, we slap on some powder, concealer, blush and mascara and we look great, while men are stuck with puffy eyes and dark circles.

Chivalry: We can always find a seat in the bus and never have to carry heavy stuff around. We don’t have to open doors, get drinks or pay for dinner, if we don’t want to.

That’s it sisters! Whenever you get blue because of a guy, or think men’s world is treating you unjust, just browse through these 10 things and you’ll feel better in no time.

Dieting and eating out?

2005-10-14T21:02:00.000+02:00

If you’re a girl, you’re always on some kind of a diet, right? Even if we’re not, we’re always buying low-fat, fat-free, carb-free, sugarless and skimmed products. Cooking usually involves olive or sunflower oil instead of grease, chicken and fish instead of pork and beef, artificial sweeteners, whole-wheat flour, steaming, grilling instead of frying… We count calories, grams of fat and sugar. We do it almost subconsciously, and the whole thing helps us stay fit, healthy and keeping pounds off.

But what about dining out? Restaurants and fast-food joints can be the no1 enemy of your diet…or not. Examine this tips and tricks on how to eat out and stay on track.

Know what you’re ordering and how’s it prepared. Don’t hold back on questions. It’s your right to know, you’re paying for it. Also, order sauces on the side, or in a separate bowl. If you like a meal, but would like to have it grilled, without salt or similar, just say so.

Portions in restaurants are a few sizes too big, almost always. So, instead of ordering a fixed dish, combine your own from the things you like. It can get only a bit more expensive. Or, split a dish with someone, which is great if you’re dining with a girlfriend.

Try salad as your starter, go easy on appetizers. Take whole-wheat bun instead of a plain one, and don’t add any butter.

Order clear soups, milk instead of cream and put salsa on your potatoes instead of cream or butter. Try seafood or pasta with plain tomato sauce and a lot of herbs for a change.

Drink a lot of water, only a little wine, and mix it with sparkling water. For desert, take a fruit cake instead of chocolate one. Sorbet is a good choice too. If you can’t resist the chocolate delight, share it with someone.

If you’re full and still have some food on your plate, ask for a doggy bag. This way you won’t feel bad for not cleaning up your dish.

Fast food can be tricky. Their salads are not as healthy as you think, they contain croutons, cheese, ham and fatty dressing. Stay away from those, and take your salad plain, with some salt, vinegar or only a half of dressing. Another way to go is veggie burger, small, plain hamburger or fish burger. Order mustard or ketchup with your burger instead of mayo and mysterious special sauce.

Some fast food diners now offer bunless meals. They put your burger, tomato, lettuce and pickles in a plastic plate. If you really have to have (and are craving for it) something fatty, spice it up with some Tabasco, peppers and so on. It’ll speed up the metabolism of fat and neutralise some of it too.

And remember, eat slowly and chew properly (20-30 times for one bite) because it takes about 20 minutes for your body to realise it’s full.

First date sex

2005-10-13T03:05:00.000+02:00

Kiss and forget or thirsty for more?

Times when women were considered sluty for dishing out on first date should have been long forgotten. We have sexual urges just like man, and are becoming more aware of them every day. I think it’s time for women to take matters in their own hands.

So, why is first date sex still such a bad thing? I say it isn’t, but your moves should depend on what you’re looking for. If’you’re up to an only physical relationship, sex on first date puts everything in perspective. Try to explain that to the guy, and make sure he knows you want only his body.

Sexual relationships can be a great thing. You can have guy no 1 you like, he’s sweet, gentle, talkative and a good listener, you have similar interests…but he’s just not what you need in the sack. Your stud no 2 saves the day here, doing everything you like, while shutting up. The bliss!

But, things tend to get a bit messier if you like the guy on your first date, don’t want to have an exclusively sexual relationship with him, but it so happens that you end up in bed.

Most women start panicking early next morning. It’s true that this is not the perfect way to begin a relationship, but get real, men are not such bastards your mother has warned you about. (With exclusion of those who are, but that sleazy SOBs are dead easy to spot) There is a great chance that he’s as confused as you are.

The key element here is to determine what you want. If the sex was lousy, think again if the guy’s a keeper. Bad bedroom habits can get only worse, and it takes a serious commitment to improve a guy. But, if you liked the sex, and want to keep the guy, here’s what to do.

Talk. Tell him that you had a wonderful time, and that you enjoyed sex as well, but that you feel it maybe happened too soon. Say that you want to get to know him more, and that you should connect better before you have sex again.

Watch what he does while you are talking. If he’s smirking and looking away, he’s about to run the hell out of there. Let him. But, a normal guy should be relieved you brought the subject up, and are so sound about it. Check with him what he wants from the relationship.

If this all went well, suggest a rewind of that ‘initial contact’. Start all over again and see how it works.

My point is: first date sex does not mean you’re a slut, easy or whatever. It also shouldn’t be a relationship spoiler, if the guy’s a normal person. Many, many things can break you up before you even properly started, and sex shouldn’t be one of them.

The final thought: He was there as well as you were. It’s not your solemn responsibility not to start the relationship with sex, so he should have said something, shouldn’t he? So, relax girl, things can get only better now!

Hair removal and how to do it

2005-10-11T01:03:00.000+02:00

Red spots and scratches all over

One of my best girlfriends is on her way to become a great genetics scientist. At the moment she’s doing research in a well-known institute, working with people who decoded and mapped the human genome.

She’s smart, beautiful, self-conscious, outspoken and fun. We had great times together and still paint the town red every time she pops for a visit. But, all of these qualities are not the reason of me reminiscing about Maya.

Believe it or not, this extraordinarily smart woman’s main goal in life (apart from some very obvious) is to discover where is the gene for leg, armpit, bikini zone and upper lip hair hidden, and to disable it. If she can’t do that, she swears she’ll invent a pill that stripes us from all hair except that on our heads. I say go girl!

But, until then (this crazy scientists can take the longest time in inventing something useful), we are left with the ultimate question: What is the best way to remove unwanted hair on our bodies? Razor, wax, cream, laser, epilator…what?

Shaving is the cheapest and easiest way to remove hair from your legs and armpits. But, it does not last; in the summer it needs daily maintenance for you to look ok. Your razor should be always sharp (replace it every fifth time). Take care you first moisten your legs for at least three minutes under warm shower, and be careful which shaving cream/foam/gel you use. It can irritate your skin and cause ingrown hair, so if you have any trouble, just use the hair conditioner. Never go swimming just after you’ve shaven your legs (see, pool etc.)

Waxing is considered to be painful, and guess what? It is, it hurts like hell. Especially if it’s just before or after your period. What’s more, your hair has to be at least ½ of a cm long. Good news is that it lasts for ages (or closer to 3 weeks), and your hairs reduce. But the excruciating pain! Don’t do the hot wax, you can choose cold ones. Drink an Advil or similar pill for at least two hours before ‘surgery’. For those among us who don’t take chances, there are creams that numb your skin (ask your beautician about it). If you’re doing it at home, sprinkle some baby powder on your legs first, and then apply the wax.

Depilatory creams stink and cause allergies. With the stench we can’t help you (open the window), and as far as irritation goes, try it out first on a small patch of skin. Creams are great if you want a durable result, they burn hair under skin surface, and so it grows out slower. You can do your legs, bikini zone and even face. Remember to put a warm washcloth on the area for few minutes before applying cream. Don’t overdue on time, follow the instructions. When removing the cream, wipe it off and then rinse.

Epilators hurt too. It’s just a fancy name for electric tweezers when pain is concerned. Many of them nowadays have skin coolers that should help. The effect is longer lasting than shaving or crams, but hurts and the skin tends to get red bumps. Plus is that once you buy it you don’t need anything in that department for a long time, and many of those appliances have interchangeable heads, so you can shave as well and perform a gentle peeling.

Electrolysis and laser hair removal give by far the longest lasting result. Almost forever! The downside is that the first one hurts (they insert needles in your skin) and both are really pricy. One treatment can cost from 50 up to 500 US$ (depending on the area covered and method used), and you’ll need at least 3.

Hope this short hair removal tutorial helped you, but let us know what you think. Coming up next in hair removal compartment: Combating facial hair

Top ways to look ridiculous

2005-10-09T21:54:00.000+02:00

Just don’t do it!

Watching MTV, daily soaps and action movies many women get these ‘great’ ideas. Like: wearing tiny golden shorts, string bra, shoes with 15 cm heels (like J Lo in her music video) or completely transparent top, extremely high hair, a lot of flounce, purple from head to toe with a touch of green, large animal print… you name it. Although these looks are undisputedly sexy and seem applicable to everyday life, trust us, they are not. Hasn’t your mamma ever told you not to trust anything you see on TV?

Before you get out of the house, check the mirror. It often happens that we look something in between of what we were picturing and what we really achieved. That’s mostly because all of us girls have these perfect looking pin-up girls in our heads.

So, when we put on a piece of top range clothes or makeup, we imagine we look just like the advertisement mannequin, but sometime it’s far from beautiful and sexy. Although the imagined me has the perfect complexion, enhanced with that new toner and powder, an honest look in the mirror reveals just perfect – dark circles around my eyes.

Some of us are born with it, some have to work hard to achieve it – sexy look is not something to be taken lightly. When you’re up for sexy, don’t do severe.

Ten golden not to dos

Thick layered red lipstick

We have nothing against screaming red lipstick, but only if you promise not to put it on while driving, the rest of your wardrobe is in subtle tones, not to eat spinach and check it every two hours.

The traitor bra

Those transparent latex straps just don’t do the job. They tend to cut in your flesh, get dirty very easily and get real they are not invisible. If you have to have something flashing from your top, let it be a subtle colour of lace or satin bra.

Dramatic look gone bad

Artificial lashes poorly attached and leaky glue making your eyes red are signs for you: first learn how to do it properly. Even more, go easy on mascara (no one likes lumps in lashes), and when you’re plucking your eyebrows, for the love if God, look what you’re doing.

Concrete hairdo

Yes, your hair should move, especially if the day’s windy. Take it easy with maximum hold gel and spray. When you’re colouring your hair at home try calling your best friend to help you. There’s nothing worse than a dark spot in blond hair.

Smelling like…

Don’t mix several perfumes together. Don’t put deodorant, scented moisturiser and scented shampoo on at the same time and top it with perfume. Too much scent gets…smelly.

Appropriate clothes

It’s good to follow trends, but you should adjust it to your figure. A stretch mini with no bra plus big tits looks bad. Showing cleavage down to your waste line will only make you look cheap and a wide belt on your not so thin waste will make it look fatter.

Platforms etc.

Please, don’t wear platforms. Those days are long gone and only Pamela Anderson gets to wear them today. Try flat shoes if you got the legs for it, and if not the best way to go is a feminine 3-4 cm high heal.

Monkey manicure

French manicure two weeks old looks corny, as well as rusty oriental jewellery. Also, don’t put 5 layers of polish on. The same goes for your toenails.

Underwear trouble

Nylon panties, too small thongs and halters are things to wear to bed, for a maximum of few hours. When put to everyday use they tend to get uncomfortable, rashy and twisted.

Disco makeup

Yes, you should make your makeup a bit heavier when going to poorly lit places, but don’t overdue it. Too dark powder, three layers of mascara and red blush can only make you look cheap. And it’ll melt down anyway.

Absolutely fabulous lips

2005-10-08T19:00:00.000+02:00

Some further tips and tricks on how to buy, put on and wear your lipstick. With some consideration, your lips can look gorgeous all day long.

First, when you’re buying your new lipstick, don’t ever try the tester on your lips directly. It’s unhygienic; try to imagine all the bacteria swarming on it! Instead, put some lipstick on your fingertips, whose colour is similar to your lips. Check the colour near a window or even go out of the store; the colour tends to look different in artificial light.

If you despite our advice end up with the shade that’s just not right, don’t throw it away. You can try mixing it with some other lipstick or darken it with a bit of lip pencil. Store your lipstick in refrigerator.

Even if you have dry lips, don’t put any moisturiser or lip balm under your lipstick, it’ll melt right off. You can use creamy lipsticks instead. Don’t rub your lips after putting lipstick on

When you’re touching up on your makeup during the day, don’t just put some more lipstick on. First remove any residue lipstick with a tissue and only then can you put on a new layer.

If you accidentally smudge some lipstick on the skin surrounding your lips don’t worry. Use a cotton swab and some eye-makeup remover to gently rub it off.

To avoid getting lipstick on your teeth, run your index finger through the middle of your lips and pull it back out.

Newer put lipstick over a herpes sprouting on your lips. It can spread the infection, and what’s more, it doesn’t look nice. Better wait for the wound to heal. If you want to cover it up, use an antiseptic corrector.

How to put lipstick on properly:

Get rid of choppy lips first. Treat your lips to a peeling once a week by using a soft toothbrush and some moisturiser.

Before putting anything on your lips, apply some base foundation and blend it well. Follow with lip pencil the exact mach to your lipstick colour. Carefully outline your lips and colour lips as well, it’ll make lipstick last longer.

Use a brush to apply lipstick. Then gently press a tissue against the lips and apply another layer of lipstick.

As a final touch, put some gloss in the middle of your upper and lower lip, it’ll create the look of fullness.

Let your lips talk

2005-10-08T09:30:00.000+02:00

Our lips always send out a message, whether they are covered with screaming red lipstick or just a touch of lip balm. The message is for you to compose.

From ancient Egypt to French Guerlain and European Helena Rubinstein women have always loved the feel and look of lipstick.

But, lipstick would never have become so popular if it hadn't been for movie stars from golden Hollywood era. So, today we have lipsticks that don’t smudge, make our lips larger, plumper, moist and sexy. What are you waiting for? Go out there and buy yourself a great lipstick.

How to choose the right one?

One of the ways to determine your perfect lip colour might be your skin tone. If your skin has a bluish glow, pick deep red or purple, but if your skin emits a yellowish aura you can try the warmer side of the palette, choosing red or gold.

Another criteria to watch out for is your hair colour. The general opinion is: pastel pink is for blonds, women with brown hair can wear any shade of red, whilst orange is suitable only for redheads. But, here are some further tips; some well kept professional secrets that will help you to have just perfect lips:

Pink is a very easy to wear colour. It can soften a brunettes face and blends perfectly with fair hair.

If bronze has golden glow it can volumise your lips, and works very good with dark haired women. Golden bronze enhances sun-touched skin. If you have fair skin, try orange-bronze.

Plum colour is perfect for red or dark hair. But beware: if you want to wear this colour, you have to precisely outline your lips, and they shouldn’t be too big.

A classic red is ideal for any hair colour, the only thing to look out for is that screaming red works only with blonds, while redheads should stay away from it.

Now you know which shade fits you perfect. In our next post we’ll teach you how to put lipstick on, and make it stay there.

Cold feet? Get warm!

2005-10-06T23:12:00.000+02:00

The summer is really over and the fall season is coming down on us with fog, rain and cold days. High humidity in the air makes our hair frizzy and hair-do untidy. And although we tend to wear warmer clothes, we still leave our hands, face and neck unprotected from cold winds.

As it gets colder and colder, and the winter starts, we get more reluctant to get out of warm bed in the morning. Sometime we even tend to skip classes or miss work. If it’s absolutely necessary to go out it takes about five whole minutes to get incurably cold, and the coldness lasts through the whole day.

Now is the right time to learn how to warm yourself up, before the cruel winter gets you. Here are our tips:

If you’re constantly cold, it’s usually bad circulation. How to improve your blood flow? It’s pretty easy, when you know what you’re supposed to be doing.

Drink a cup of hot cinnamon tea with honey in the morning, follow with a 10 minute workout. When you’re in the shower, treat your body to a peeling, first rubbing peeling and then rubbing your body with a bathing glove.

First shower with warm and then cold water, repeat a few times. After showering, when your skin is still warm, apply a generous layer of moisturising cream, which will hold the heat on the surface of your skin.

Try this out, and you’ll feel the change immediately! Plus, wear soft, comfortable socks which won’t stop your blood flow. Treat yourself to a cup of hot chocolate before going to bed (use honey for sweetening). It would be great to try some of the following teas too: nettle (Urtica dioica), everlasting (Calendula officinalis), rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) or birch leaf (Betula alba).

Hair trouble

2005-10-06T00:21:00.000+02:00

No, we’re not going to talk about bad hair day, we’ll come to that later. This post is about split ends, every girl’s nightmare. Split ends make us look sloppy, and you and I both now how much hard work we put in looking good.

Furthermore, with split ends it’s almost impossible to maintain that posh, sleek look we’ve learnt to love. Even the split end ponytail looks corny.

But, you’ll say, I just can’t help it. My hairs split no matter what I do. Are you suggesting I should stop colouring my hair and using a blow dryer? Or cutting it shorter each time? Don’t panic sisters, we may be a bit crazy, but we wouldn’t dare to mess with the ‘do!

One of the most important things after getting a fresh haircut (all the split ends are gone, yeeeeah!) is to maintain that state. Here are some tips on how to prevent split ends:

Brushing: should be a strict no-no, but if you have to do it, use brushes made of soft material, be gentle and never, never brush your hair when it’s wet, because it’s more fragile than when dry. Comb wet hair if you want to.

Colouring: Don’t do it more than once in a fortnight. Always use shampoos and conditioners that are specifically made for coloured and dry hair, because chemicals in colours dry your hair down and damage it.

Other chemical treatments: You should pause for at least two weeks between colouring / highlighting and giving your hair a perm or semi-permanent ironing

Sleep like a true princess, on a silk (satin) pillow.: Not only does it feel good, but it also prevents tangling of hair.

Drying: Don’t use your blow-dryer every day, please. Every other should suffice for any hair do. Don’t towel-dry your hair too vigorously, a gentle drying will do as well.

Playing with your hair: Don’t. You don’t like to be stretched, twirled, and tugged either, so treat your hair the same. Also, always use coated rubber bands when making pony tails.

But what if we already got split ends, you might ask? Some solutions for you too:

Always condition your hair after shampooing: Try different shampoos and conditioners every time you buy new bottles, and try mixing one shampoo with some other label conditioner. Experiment, you’ll soon find the perfect mach for your hair.

Deep condition once a month: You can use any deep conditioner you like, or you can simply put some olive oil on your hair and leave it for 20 minutes. The important thing is to cover your head in plastic cap after you apply the conditioner and put on it a warm towel (soaked in hot water for example).

For quick fixes: just before an important meeting/date, you realise the split end disaster. Use a leave in conditioner in spray or cream and then blow-dry for a few minutes.

Trim: You should visit your hair stylist at least once every 6 – 8 weeks, to trim your hair. The word is, you have to cut it even if you’re growing it.

Good food enhances love

2005-10-04T23:19:00.000+02:00

(chocolate delights)

If you ever wanted to surprise your guy with some good food, this post if for you. Very unusually, we start with deserts, but chocolate is not only perfect food for women hearts, but sexual amplifier as well. Eating chocolate enhances the production of endorphins in our body, which are mood-boosters.

And don’t worry, the puddings we teach you how to make are dead easy, quick, and most importantly, chocolaty. If he likes you for the things you do in bed, he’ll just love you for the sweets you make…we guarantee.

Chocolate cream pots

Ingredients needed: one and a half cups half-and-half or light cream, 1/3 cup sugar, one cup (6 oz) semisweet chocolate chips, four large egg yolks (beaten), two tablespoons vanilla extract, whipped cream

Preparation: Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In saucepan, bring half-and-half and sugar to a simmer, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat; add chocolate chips. Let stand for 30 seconds; stir until chocolate melts. Whisk in yolks and vanilla. Pour into six custard cups or any other heatproof cups. Place them in 13x9 baking pan. Pour hot water into pan halfway up sides of cups. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until almost set in centres. Remove cups to rack; cool slightly. Serve warm for a softer texture, or refrigerate overnight for a firmer set. Serve with whipped cream (and a smile, we might add, preferably in the bed you just shared with your sexy stud).

Easy Tiramisu

Ingredients needed: six tablespoons Kahlúa (or any other coffee liqueur), three tablespoons granulated sugar, one tablespoon water, two teaspoons instant coffee powder, half a cup whipped cream cheese, two tablespoons whipping cream, four (half-inch-thick) slices purchased pound cake, two teaspoons chocolate powder

Preparation: Combine coffee liqueur, a tablespoon of sugar, a tablespoon of water and instant espresso powder in small bowl; stir until espresso powder dissolves.
Combine cream cheese, whipping cream, a tablespoon coffee liqueur mixture and remaining 2 tablespoons sugar in another small bowl and whisk to blend.On two dessert plates, place one slice cake each. Brush each slice with 1/4 of Kahlúa mixture. Divide cheese mixture evenly and spread over each cake slice. Top each with remaining slices of cake. Brush each with remaining Kahlúa mixture. Sift cocoa over cakes. Serve immediately or cover and refrigerate up to one day. (looks very posh, but dead easy, just as we promised)

Pancakes with chocolate sauce

Ingredients needed: PANCAKES: two eggs, one cup milk, one cup water, eight tablespoons flour. SAUCE: one cup water, two tablespoons sugar, ¼ bar dark chocolate, 1 tablespoon butter

Preparation: For pancakes, mix all the ingredients in a high bowl with electric mixer first on medium than on high (you should produce some foam). If the mixture is too thick, add some (little!) water, if it’s too runny, add an additional tablespoon of flour. Bake the pancakes in a slightly oiled large pan on a gas stove; you should come up with 10-15 pancakes.

To make the sauce, take a large pan and put it over low heat. Immediately put butter in, follow with chocolate and sugar, after 30 seconds add water. Mix constantly. When it starts to boil all over, it’s done. (there is no other desert like pancakes, not only are they easy to make, but you can stuff them with whatever you like)

Chocolate Mousse

Ingredients needed: one teaspoon un-flavored gelatine, one tablespoon cold water, two tablespoons boiling water, half a cup sugar, 1/4 cup cocoa, one cup cold whipping cream, one teaspoon vanilla extract.

Preparation: Put gelatine in cold water; let stand 1 minute to soften. Add boiling water; stir until gelatine is completely dissolved and mixture is clear. Cool slightly.

In small bowl, stir together sugar and cocoa; add whipping cream and vanilla. Beat on medium speed of electric mixer, scraping bottom of bowl occasionally, until mixture is stiff. Pour in gelatine mixture; bat until well blended. Spoon into serving dishes. Refrigerate about 30 minutes before serving (perfect to cool down after...and get energy for some more!)

Dressing up 1-2-3

2005-10-03T03:04:00.000+02:00

Every and each day women all over the world have the same problem: what to wear? We present you with a thorough tutorial on how to bypass the getting-dressed nightmare, with our usual handful of tips and tricks.

Ever spent half an hour pondering in front of a full closet what the hell are you going to wear? And maybe, just maybe, had to makeup in hurry, or did you even get late because of clothes? It’s like our minds go completely blank when we have to dress in less time than usual.

The simplest thing you can do to solve this problem is to think one day in advance. We all know exactly what we have in our wardrobes, so it’s not necessary to stand in front of it. Do what I do: when I lie down to sleep the last thing I do is to put together the clothes combination I’m going to wear tomorrow.

I locate in my mind every piece of my outfit; think about clothes, underwear, shoes, coat, handbag, nylons and other accessories, sometime even makup I want to wear. And when I wake up in the morning, I’m ready to get dressed without stress.

This method is great if you only go to work or school, but what if you’re on a tight schedule and often unexpected things like dinner invitations, presentations or work meetings occur?

The magic word is – prepare. Take one afternoon to do it and be free for the rest of days. The idea is to think up a perfect outfit for each occasion and put it together on a hanger in your wardrobe. Complete with shoes, handbag and stockings. You’ll need about six combinations: business, formal dinner, sport, date, night out and casual. Include whatever category you wish (sexy, work lunch, travel etc.), you can make more than one combination per category as well.

These will be your lifesavers so treat them like that. Dry clean or wash regularly and don’t mess them up. If you take it apart, for example you want to wear ‘business outfit’ shoes but not the rest of the clothes, put them back the minute you come home.

Plus, always have extra underwear ‘still unpacked’ as well as plenty of stockings.

Hope this helped you!

Hide things you don’t want to be seen

2005-10-01T19:31:00.000+02:00

Let’s face it; we all need to hide certain…unflattering…things on our face. Pimples, capillaries, scars, dark or light spots, puffy eyes, hickeys, you name it. In this post we tell you how to do it properly. Learn these tips and make your life easier once and for all.

Even women with perfect complexion get pimples, blemishes and zits sometime, often before and during period. There’s nothing worse than a big red pimple on your nose or forehead. The trick is to use a concealer that matches your skin colour perfectly. Most women use very light concealers and just highlight the pimple. Put some concealer on your fingertip and pat the pimple and surrounding skin. Follow with loose powder. Put the rest of the makeup on as usual, but avoid the pimple area.

Dark circles around your eyes are probably a result of a night out that lasted till the morning, but it was worth it. The only thing that covers and hides dark circles is yellow-gold concealer, which is a much better solution than using light concealer because it counters the blue-grey colour around the eyes. Put some on your finger and pat gently on the areas you want to hide. Don’t put it only under your eyes, the inner corner of the eye as well as upper part of eye is supposed to be covered too. Seal with loose powder. Putting heavy make up afterwards on our eyes is a strict no-no, because you don’t want to draw attention. Use transparent mascara if you must, and some white shimmering eye pencil.

Puffy eyes make you look fat and unattractive. The best cure is to sit down with thick, cold slices of fresh cucumber on your eyes for 15 minutes (the trick is to put the cucumber in the deep freeze for 10-15 minutes and then use it). Afterwards, apply concealer all around your eyes (all the rules described earlier apply here). Set with loose powder. The next thing to do is to draw attention from under-eye puffiness to your upper lids. Use a dark eye pencil, some eyeshadow and mascara only on your upper eyelids. You can use the curler too if you want. Makeup artists give us one more tip: apply a light touch of blush under your eyes (on the puffs!) when you’re done with makeup.

Last but not least when it comes to us hot girls is hiding hickeys, traces of a passionate night. Instead of wearing a scarf, go to the chemists and buy some Heparin cream or gel. It’ll break the haematoma and help the surrounding tissue absorb it much quicker. You should apply it 3-4 times a day. Meanwhile, if you’re going to work, try this: apply some lighter concealer (neck is always fairer than our face skin) and set with loose powder.

That's it, hope it helped!

What about that sexy feeling

2005-10-01T02:56:00.000+02:00

(part two)

You finally got him where you want: hot and ready for sex. The first one for you two as a couple. Is it time to panic yet? Well, if you take a moment to read this post and sexy tips we give you, you’ll be just fine. Don’t worry.

First sexes are rarely a fantastic-orgasmic-wonderful moments. It takes time and practice to find out what suits you best, but once you brake the ice, everything goes easier. Here are the tips, enjoy.

Try to relax. We know that he’s coming in just a few hours, but relax. Do whatever it is that helps you feel calm. Prepare. Clean the place up, be sure to put away everything embarrassing (dirty socks, prom picture, self-help books, hangover medicine…).

This is not the time to try out any evasive beauty treatments, die your hair or do a bikini wax. Should’ve thought of this earlier. Dress sexy but comfortable, make-up, but put only lip gloss/balm on your lips, you don’t want to get a big red lipstick smudge all over your face the second kissing becomes more passionate.

If you’re cooking dinner, do something light and not very spicy. Chicken is always a good choice (we’re thinking about sharing some great recepies with you in a couple of days). Again, it’s not time to experiment, if you can’t cook, don’t. There are a lot of take-out places, we’re sure. But don’t forget one crucial thing: dessert! Make/buy something chocolaty, it’ll take passion up for a nudge.

A few minutes before he arrives, put on some sexy music and open a bottle of wine. Light some candles…

…Things should go smoothly once he arrives. After dinner, move with your glasses somewhere more comfortable. Let him do the first move, but once he has made it, you can (gently) dictate the tempo.

Let him know what you like and what’s not really your favourite, with moves, not words. He’s probably as nervous as you are, keep that in mind. Act on your feel, don’t force any exhibitions (there’ll be plenty of time for that later on) and you should be fine.

P. S. There is a chance that once he rings your doorbell and you open the door, you’ll start tearing each other’s clothes down. It’s going to happen so fast and hot that you won’t have time to think. Even better.

(Think about contraception. Better have some condoms ready, just in case)

Really fast diet?

2005-09-29T17:55:00.000+02:00

In this post we present you with the ultimate secret… a fast diet on which you can loose a whole kilogram in just 24 hours.

Did you ever have an important meeting, date you were looking forward to or a wedding of a relative you hate and simply had to look the best you can? And that suit/jeans/dress would look so much better if you had only a couple of pounds less? We hate dieting as any other gals do, but sometime it’s just necessary

A 24 hour plan to loose 1 kilogram!

When you wake up, two hours before breakfast, drink: juice of one lemon mixed with a teaspoon of apple vinegar, pinch of salt and some mineral water (this will tell your body to start burning fat). One hour before breakfast you can have some cucumber salad, slightly seasoned, or some watermelon.

Don’t skip breakfast, but be careful how much fat you eat. Try integral muesli, yogurt, low-fat milk and cheese or some vegetables. Don’t eat any sugar! After breakfast drink a cup of green tea.

Eat a green apple before lunch. Follow with meat prepared with no fat, apple vinegar seasoned salad, fruit and vegetables.

For dinner eat a yogurt with some fruit. Bathe in hot water in which you put 2 tablespoons of baking soda. Before going to sleep have a drink of lemon juice, a teaspoon of honey and some mineral water mixed together.

During the day you should drink at least 2 litres of water and have a 20 minute walk or some other exercise. Avoid fat and carbohydrates.

Let us know if it worked!

Essential face care

2005-09-27T18:30:00.000+02:00

If you smoke, wear heavy make-up everyday, drink, party, starve and are often under stress (I know I do it all), you have found a recipe for a disastrous face complexion.

First of all you have to learn how to thoroughly cleanse and moisturise your face. Here are some easy to do steps to a perfect complexion.

1. Pull up your hair and fasten it.

2. Use soap and lukewarm water to wash your hands (don’t forget the nails!)

3. Make some gentle soap foam in your palm and apply it to your face, avoiding eye area. Rinse thoroughly.

4. Open face pores with camomile steam. You can use natural oils and hot water if you like.

5. Apply peeing to still moist skin, let it soften the skin for 2 or 3 minutes afterwards massage the face in circular motion, paying special attention to nose and chin area. Rinse.

6. Now that your skin is clean the moisturising ingredients of masques can penetrate deep. Use some home-made, and rinse after 10 minutes.

7. Apply a rich amount of moisturising cream.

Home made beauty goodies even I can make

Pineapple/papaya peeling

one cup fresh pineapple, half-a-cup fresh papaya, two tablespoons honey

Puree pineapple and papaya in a blender, add honey and mix thoroughly. Wash your face and then apply the mixture to your skin, avoiding the eye area. Leave on for no more than 5 minutes, rinse with cool water. Don't use more than once a week. Note: when using this peel for the first time, keep for only 1-2 minutes to make sure there is no skin irritation.

Why it works: Pineapple contains bromelain and papaya contains papain. Both are proteases, natural enzymes that can break up proteins. When applied to the skin in small amounts, these enzymes help gently remove dead cells from skin surface producing mild peeling effect. Honey is added to increase moisturizing effect of the treatment.

Yogurt/oatmeal masque

two tablespoons plain yogurt, one tablespoon oatmeal, one tablespoon honey

Mix ingredients together to form a paste. Wash your face. Massage face with the paste in a circular motion. Keep on for a minute or two then rinse off

Why it works: Yogurt contains lactic acid (an alpha-hydroxy acid) and a number of nutrients that may mildly stimulate collagen production in the skin. Oatmeal and honey act as moisturizers. It works as a natural face-lifting if you let the first layer dry completely and then apply another layer on top of it. Rinse when it dries.

Yogurt/aloe healing masque

half-a-cup plain yogurt, two tablespoons aloe gel (or a fresh aloe leaf)

Simply mix ingredients together to form a paste. (Aloe gel can be purchased in a health food store. Alternatively, you can take a fresh aloe leaf, remove the skin and mash the pulp.) Wash your face. Massage face with the paste in a circular motion. Keep on for a minute or two then rinse off.

Why it works: Yogurt contains lactic acid (an alpha-hydroxy acid) and a number of nutrients that mildly stimulate collagen production in the skin. Aloe is a good moisturizer, and contains anti-inflammatory substances. This masque is good for irritated, sensitive skin.

How to deal with the blues

2005-09-27T00:32:00.000+02:00

Every once in a while I get the blues. Not a serious depression, I’ll get to that in a few posts, but simply rainy, blue feeling. I know you do to gals, so let’s deal with it together.

One of the things I like the most is taking a warm bath with some aroma-therapy bubbles. I light some candles and play music. Usually classical music, but listen to whatever feels right. If you feel like crying, do it, but let it cleanse you.

Relax and try meditating. Not in that yoga, asana, whatever way, but in the simplest (and most efficient) one: concentrate on the sound of your breathing. Take deep breaths and for at least 10 minutes let your mind relax as well.

When you're done with bathing, pamper your body with some luscious moisturiser, gently comb your hair and put on comfortable clothes.

Sometimes I feel like catching some fresh air instead, so I go for a walk and recharge my batteries. You’d be surprised how many beautiful things you’ll see, when you’re not in a hurry and don’t have a chore to do. It also helps to look at water, so go to a lake or a river and just watch the waves.

You should try to think about all the good things in your life. Don’t think about tomorrow, rather what you have today. And there are a lot of things to be happy about I’m sure.

It’s time to go home. You can take out some chocolate/chocolate ice-cream/cake and watch a romantic movie, with a happy ending of course. Or you can ring that special someone and ask him to come over and cuddle. Maybe some foot massage would be nice…

The whole point for this post was to let all of you know it’s okay to have the blues. Even if you don’t know what made you feel that way, don’t let anybody tell you it’s not ok. Girls have the right to be sad and blue sometime, it’s usually a sign our body gives us to slow down, just for a moment. So embrace it as the time to put everything aside and concentrate on relaxing and pampering your body, stimulating your soul.

Deodorants, antiperspirants or something else?

2005-09-26T20:24:00.000+02:00

As much I would like, I can’t stop sweating. Not all the time, but when I’m stressed, hot or tense. The only solution against strange odour is using deodorant. But which one? Do you believe in the power of deodorants and antiperspirants? I don't. Just the opposite, I hate the stuff and really can’t help myself. Here are some of my experiences and tips for you gals out there.

At first I tried using liquid deodorants which left a sticky trace on my skin and a horrible feeling of uneasiness. Furthermore, most of those deodorants contain a large percentage of alcohol and irritate the skin. Great – for getting allergies where you need them least.

Then I tried deo-sticks, but they left me with large white stains on my clothes. Who wants that?

As a true believer in black clothes I tried colourless gels, and ended up with greasy stains instead of white ones… To the beginning again. Different approach.

Antiperespirants. Most of them leave a powdery essence that sticks to my armpits. It would be more useful to use baby powder. Deodorants for men? Yes, I thought, if they stop their sweat from smelling, they should help me. But it was too extreme and even painful.

The only trick that helps me is removing hairs regulary, using generous amounts of soap (degreases the skin and lets it breathe) and only before I go out a mild, scentless antiperspirant. As a good friend I should tell you that antiperspirants close and block pores with powerful astringents such as aluminum salts so that they can’t release sweat. (Note that aluminum can accumulate in the brain.) Therefore it’s very important to use it only when you absolutely must.

At the end, I present you with a trick I found in an old magazine. Baking soda. Just put some on a damp towel and pat your armpits. Wait for it to dry and that’s it. Worked for me, it didn’t stop me sweating but it prevented the sweat smelling.

Nail care and how to do it (properly!)

2005-09-26T00:45:00.000+02:00


This guide will give you the basic directions for nail care. First of all, the accessories needed: Nail scissors, small tray (about the size of a soap dish), gentle dishwashing detergent or other skin softening, bubbly liquid, hand towels, moisturizer or hand lotion with Aloe Vera, Cocoa Butter or similar ingredient to condition skin, clear base coat nail polish, colour nail polish, top coat nail polish and cotton swabs. STEPS
1. Fill tray with warm water and sudsy liquid (the trick is to add water at just the right temperature so it will soften skin without being too hot to the touch). Place one hand in tray and let it soak for several minutes. Pat dry and repeat with other hand. When finished, apply some lotion.
2. Carefully begin trimming cuticles that form around the edges of the nail itself (Pay close attention to what you're doing, so you don't cut too close and end up causing skin to bleed. If you take your time and trim slowly with tiny strokes, you should be fine.)
3. When you have completed trimming cuticles on both hands, you should make sure all loose skin is removed from nail area. Begin to polish nails with clear base coat by applying a thin layer as smoothly and carefully as possible. Try to keep polish on nails only. If you accidentally apply too much or get extra polish on skin around nails, use a cotton swab dipped lightly in nail polish remover to correct your mistake.
4. After applying base coat to both hands, choose polish colour and repeat previous procedure beginning with the same hand you started with last time. Follow guidelines described above to produce best results.
5. The next application will be a top coat to create a seal or protection for colored polish. Repeat previous steps to ensure success in this process. Remember less is better when it comes to nail polish. Thick layers lead to messy results.
6. touch nothing and wait for at least five minutes to creating lasting results that will make your manicured nails look their best.
Is base coat and top coat necessary? Hell yes. That is, if you want to have long lasting, smudge proof manicure. Try it and let us know.

What about that sexy feeling?

2005-09-25T21:54:00.000+02:00

(part one)

Thinking about sex today I suddenly remembered those ‘first times’ and how awkward they can be. You know the deal, I’m sure. After a few dates, sparkles and tingles, innocent goodnight kisses, you really want to get the guy in a sack. (Let’s face it, we like sex even more than they do!)

But stop! All these things come racing through your head…What is he going to think about you if you show lust and desire? Is he going to think you’re easy/desperate/nymphomaniac?

And what is sex going to do of you just blossoming relationship? And is he up to it?

First stop fussing. I know it’s in our nature, but stop. Think rationally. He likes you or he wouldn’t be dating you. Secondly, sex is going to happen sooner or later, so why not when you feel like it? And the most important: do you really want to be with a person that thinks you are any of things mentioned above?

So, the only question remaining is: How to give him a hint?

You could go for a safe approach: candlelit dinner at your/his place, sexy clothes, suggestive perfume and music. Get the conversation on the theme and listen what he says. Let him do the first move.

Or you could go strait to the head: when he kisses you goodnight, don’t let him stop.

From personal experience, I’d say both of these work just fine. Use the first one preferably. But I also had one tough guy, who didn’t give me any sexy signals for three months of dating; I finally went bezerk and did the number two on him. And liked it very much, I must say. Later, when I asked him why he didn’t do the first move, he said he was scared I would consider him sex-driven. GO FIGURE.

Coming up: When the night comes (part two)

Being vain

2005-09-24T19:15:00.000+02:00

What about wearing makeup? Some wouldn't be caught dead without going out of the house without makeup. Is that being vain or is it a self esteem issue?

Make-up is not something I wear very often. But I do when I go out of the house. Usually just a touch of colour, very natural, hiding some of disadvantages. Earlier I used to wear rather heavy make-up, a lot of mascara, blue eye-shadows, and powder, with no good reason whatsoever, and I felt constrained. Not only did I constantly have to check and repair my make up, but it became my face.

Then, I grew tired, my skin as well, and decided to try using creams, lotions, scrubs and nurture goodies. At first, I couldn’t cope with emptiness on my face, but today, I honestly believe that good moisturizer goes a long way. And, in the end, make up looks hell better on healthy skin.

Don’t get me wrong, I still want to change a lot of things on me. I too wear braces, do athletics to gain muscles, die my hair, go to the solarium and regularly get nail implants. But the simple truth is that sometimes I just need a bit of blush to look and feel great, and sometimes a whole hour of doing make-up doesn’t suffice.

But no amount of surgery or makeup can make you beautiful or give you worth unless you work on the inside first. Bigger boobs, a flatter stomach, or even a ton of makeup can't give you self-esteem alone.

When you’re feeling down, don’t overdue on make-up. Remember: Wash your face twice a day. Tone. Moisturize. Use sunscreen in the daylight hours. Repeat. That's a start.

Sometimes, I just hate those girly magazines

2005-09-24T15:06:00.000+02:00

Everything’s fine when I feel fine. I love to watch lovely clothes, shoes, handbags, new make-up and think how to get my hands on similar goodies. But as soon as I’m in a downer, not feeling so good about myself, they tend to bring me even lower

Yeah, sure I’d like to be super slim, have soft silky skin, luscious hair and professionally manicured nails. Sometimes I even spend whole afternoons trying to make myself beautiful, give myself a look boost up, and then I open Cosmo or Marie Claire and there it goes, I suddenly realise I forgot to pamper my feet or cut toenails or…whatever. I realise in a moment how far from perfect I am.

I’ve had this ‘problem’ for ages, when it hit me: Why do I have to be perfect? Of course it’s nice to be considered a fabulous goddess, but than again, do I really need it? What is so wrong with being nice or pretty? Well, my dear sisters, it’s just not enough. I crave, as most of us do, to be the prettiest girl in the room. It makes me happy, self-confident, and yes, even prettier than I am.

What I came to understand is that I’ll never wake up looking fab, that I have to work hard on reaching my own beauty goals. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not aiming to be another Claudia Schiffer, but I am always trying my best. And it is worth it.

Not only do I feel better, but people talk to me differently when I’m dressed up, my best edition. Think about it and let me know.

Matters of heart

2005-09-24T14:38:00.000+02:00

Here you can find all our posts about love, relationships and other heart related issues
(from September 2005 up till now – February 2006)

Spicy advice to bring romance back
Don't put yourself down
Fight PMS
Test your sex intelligence
Test your sex intelligence – results
Tell him what you really want
Proud to be a girl
Sex on first date
Good food enhances love
Sexy feeling
Sexy feeling part two
How to deal with the blues
Vanity
Magazines

Face care

2005-09-24T14:31:00.000+02:00

Here you can find all our posts on how to care for your face
(from September 2005 up till now – February 2006)

Dry skin
The importance of face care
Cover up your imperfections

Essential face care

Nails

2005-09-24T14:26:00.000+02:00

Here you can find all our posts about nails
(from September 2005 up till now – February 2006)

Repair the cracks
Stop biting your nails
Be kind to your nails
Nail care

Hair care

2005-09-24T14:21:00.000+02:00

Here you can find all our posts about great hair care
(from September 2005 up till now – February 2006)

Oily hair
Long, long hair
Get rid of dandruff
Do hair treatments work?

Hair trouble

Straighten your hair!

Body and skin

2005-09-24T14:14:00.000+02:00

Here you can find all our posts concerning body and skin care
(from September 2005 up till now – March 2006)

Get rid of cellulite
Home made cosmetics
Skin myths
Improve and revive your skin
A proper pedicure
Give your breasts a boost Everything about deodorants

Hair removal

2005-09-24T14:07:00.000+02:00

Here you can find all our hair removal posts
(from September 2005 up till now – February 2006)

Remove unwanted hair in a trendy way
Perfect eyebrows
Everything about hair removal

Beauty tutorials – tips and tricks galore!

2005-09-24T13:57:00.000+02:00

Here you can find all our beauty tutorials
(from September 2005 up till now – February 2006)

A complete makeover, surgery free!
Get over chapped lips
Looking great on a tight budget
Winter beauty care
Beauty mistakes
Don't do this!

Sensual, trendy lips
Get warm

Fashion, clothes, shoes, accessories

2005-09-24T13:25:00.000+02:00

Here you can find all our posts about fashion and related stuff
(from September 2005 up till now – March 2006)

More fashion trends for spring 2006
Fashion trends 2006
Changing outfits in a flash
What to wear?

Exercise and diet

2005-09-24T13:18:00.000+02:00

Here you can find all our posts about exercise and diet
(from September 2005 up till now – April 2006)

Low carb diet rules
Get rid of cellulite
Yoga and weight loss
Say no to liquid diets
Commonsense diet tips 1
Commonsense diet tips 2
Sabotaging your diet
Dieting and eating out
A really fast diet

Makeup

2005-09-24T13:06:00.000+02:00

Here you can find all our posts about makeup:

(from September 2005 up till now - February 2006)

Lipstick trends 2006
Blush is your friend
Winter makeup
Use powder perfectly
Perfect lashes
Absolutely fabulous lips
Choose the right lipstick colour

what are we going to post here

2005-09-24T11:00:00.000+02:00

Silly as we are, we almost forgot to tell you
what the heck are we going to post through
this blog.

Well, first and foremost, we are going to share
all those nice little secrets that make us beautifull.
Beauty tips will range from make up, hair styling,
hair removal, nail polishing, dieting.... every single
thing we know about women (ourselves we mean),
are going to get posted eventually.

Sometimes (more often) things are going to get....
HOT. This is because women like sex, romance,
flirting... And we like to be good at things we like,
dont't we girls?

That is about it, and expect many many posts
because we are serious about beauty... and sex.

...well...this is our first post

2005-09-24T10:59:00.000+02:00

And we are very very proud for doing this.
As we are new to blogging, it'll take us a while to get
round to it, add pictures and stuff.
But, we dont't think it'll take us long, since we are soooo
smart.