25 Beauty Tips For Teenage Girls To Look (and Feel) Flawless

Source: Viviane Woodard

Being a teenage girl is tough, parents will often tell you as you roll your eyes at them (spoiler alert: they can see you, but they did the same thing at your age). There’s homework to do, and hormones to deal with, and you feel like the weight of the world is on your shoulders. All this worry can wear you down, both inside and out. No wonder you have headaches, blemishes, or bad hair days! However, there is hope. Instead of stressing about everything that’s out of your control, there are several things within your power that you can do to look and feel your best.

Even though we all have our faults, we should still try to put our best face forward. Before you get ready to face the day, read these 25 tips. You’ll feel better, look better, and your body and mind will thank you.

1. Drink water like your life depends on it. We all know we can’t survive without water, but are we getting enough of it every day? The recommended amount is 8-10 glasses a day (and no, sodas and coffee won’t quite cut it). One way to ensure you start your day off right is to down a glass of water right after you wake up. It gets you going on your daily water intake and helps hydrate you before you get too busy. Water is life. Agua es vida. It’s true in every language.

2. Lengthen your lashes. Yes, we’re still on the subject of lashes. Long, short, light, dark, straight, or curled, our lashes help us keep dust and other particles out of our eyes, and add a little something to our overall look. Even before Faline first batted her eyes at Bambi, long lashes have been something we long for. While there are products that promise to lengthen your eyelashes, the key ingredient is often castor oil.

3. Keep an eye on your eyes. There are a lot of options for eyes – liners and primers and shades, oh my! Who has the time? For a daytime school look, you might do well to remember that less is more. If you don’t use mascara, try using a thick eyeliner stick and smudging just a little at the lash line to make eyes pop. Or, maybe use a shimmery shadow over the eyelids. In other words, don’t go overboard. Take a look at your mom’s yearbook photo from 1992 and do the exact opposite.

4. For foundation, two shades are better than one. Since the skin on your face isn’t all one color and may change throughout the seasons, it’s a good idea to get two shades. Go for one that best matches your skin tone, and one that’s a little lighter. Then you can blend the two together if needed.

5. Wash your face well. We’re not done talking about water just yet! After that first drink of the day, it’s time to splash some warm water on your face along with a mild cleanser. Get the gunk off that has gathered on your face overnight (say buh-bye to the sleep in your eyes and those dead skin cells). A mild option like Viviane Woodards’ Clean Finish Cleanser works well to balance skin whether it’s oily or dry. Waking up is hard to do, but a quick wash can be rather refreshing.

6. Try a toner. While some skip this step (and it’s ok if you do, sometimes), a nice toner can help remove excess dirt and oil while also balancing the pH of your skin. It can help control acne as well. After you apply the toner, allow your skin to air-dry before you put on your moisturizer.

7. Remember to Moisturize. There are more reasons to moisturize than just preventing dryness. A good moisturizer helps prepare your skin for your make-up and keeps your complexion from looking dull. There are many moisturizers to choose from but one like Viviane Woodard’s water-based Enriched Moisturizer fights dryness with nutrients and antioxidants while smoothing and soothing even the most sensitive skin.

8. Let the sunshine in – but not too much on your delicate skin. We’re not suggesting you hide under a hat all through high school, or apply globs of sunscreen. Luckily, a lot of foundations contain SPF without feeling sticky, like Viviane Woodard’s Mineral Vegan Liquid Foundation. It goes on silky and sets to a powdery finish that leaves your face feeling smooth and flawless. It comes in various shades and works well with all skin types.

6. Try a toner. While some skip this step (and it’s ok if you do, sometimes), a nice toner can help remove excess dirt and oil while also balancing the pH of your skin. It can help control acne as well. After you apply the toner, allow your skin to air-dry before you put on your moisturizer.

7. Remember to Moisturize. There are more reasons to moisturize than just preventing dryness. A good moisturizer helps prepare your skin for your make-up and keeps your complexion from looking dull. There are many moisturizers to choose from but one like Viviane Woodard’s water-based Enriched Moisturizer fights dryness with nutrients and antioxidants while smoothing and soothing even the most sensitive skin.

8. Let the sunshine in – but not too much on your delicate skin. We’re not suggesting you hide under a hat all through high school, or apply globs of sunscreen. Luckily, a lot of foundations contain SPF without feeling sticky, like Viviane Woodard’s Mineral Vegan Liquid Foundation. It goes on silky and sets to a powdery finish that leaves your face feeling smooth and flawless. It comes in various shades and works well with all skin types.

13. Try a new ’do, from time to time. There are so many options when it comes to your hair, so have a little fun with it. Braids – whether they be French, Dutch, fishtail or one of several other styles – can showcase natural highlights and keep hair under control. Even if you just braid a few strands of your lovely locks, it helps hair stay out of your face and lets you focus on what’s in front of you, whatever or whomever that may be. Checkout this awesome tutorial on how to do all of these braids!

14. Keep it simple. When it comes to your overall style, don’t be extra, as they say. You want people to see you as a complete person, not just a head full of scrunchies or a walking jewelry box. That’s already been done – just Google “80s fashion DON’Ts” for a fun stroll down what-not-to-wear lane.

15. Don’t go overboard on base. Remember, you’re building a foundation, not a wall. Many of us make the mistake of piling on the foundation like we’re spackling or painting a room. Layering clothes is a good thing; foundation, not so much. A little bit of you should still shine through, so be sure that everything is smoothed in and not too thick. Pro tip: make sure the area around your chin is blended well.

16. Leave your lips bare. If you’ve already got your skin and eyes on point, you might be able to skip the lipstick and just go with the gloss. It’s always a good idea to use a lip scrub like Viviane Woodard’s Sugar Lip Scrub to gently remove the dead skin, which can be done once or twice a week.

17. Or, on second thought…give your lips a burst of sheer color. Sometimes a bright lip can brighten your day. One way to keep color lasting longer is by using a lip liner all over your lips (first, make sure they’re not dry or cracked). Then, use a balm or gloss to spread over the top to provide moisture and a shinier finish. If you want a cruelty-free, vegan option, go for Viviane Woodard’s Smoothing Lip Balm.

18. Eat your breakfast! Breakfast may or may not be the most important meal of the day but it’s still important. You need a little fuel to face the day. Of course, sugary cereals aren’t the smartest choice, so try some oatmeal for fiber, eggs to get your protein, or avocado toast for the yum of it (and also for vitamins C and E, as well as those heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids). Bon appetit!

19. Brush your teeth It’ll be harder to flash those pearly whites with pride if you still have half your breakfast stuck between them. Smile with confidence, and keep your teeth clean.

20. Bring a mint Throw a mint or some gum in your bag for later on in the day when that freshness fades.

21. Brush, Marsha, brush. Most of you are too young to remember the Brady Bunch reference, but that’s beside the point. Brushing your hair distributes the natural oils from your scalp all the way to the ends. It also stimulates the scalp and increases blood flow. If you have straight hair, brushing your hair a couple times a day is a good idea. However, if your hair is curly, you’ll be better off using a wide-toothed comb after you condition.

22. You do you. Again, since these are all tips and guidelines, remember that some rules are made to be broken. So…if keeping it simple doesn’t do it for you, then you do you. If you’ve decided flare is your favorite then that’s your thing, and it’s nobody’s business to tell you otherwise. Just make sure you wear it with confidence, or else you might look like a refrigerator with too many magnets. Whatever you decide, just own it!

23. Take note of trends, but don’t be a copycat. Trying to track down and copy every trend is so 2019. It’s hard to keep up with the Kardashians when you don’t have the money to buy whatever you want on a whim. There’s been a lot in the news lately about fast fashion, where popular styles move quickly from the runway to the stores to the customers, and sadly, to the garbage. Needless to say, if everyone is getting a whole new wardrobe every week, it can take a toll on the people who make the clothes as well as the planet.

24. Second hand is new to you. If you really want to be on the cutting edge and create an original look, think about shopping second-hand, doing a clothing swap with friends, or even just buying a belt to make an outfit you already have feel brand new. When you’re with your girlfriends, be sure to share tips and tricks, as you boost each other up.

25. Get some sleep, gorgeous! Sometimes our brains are buzzing with all the drama of the day and it can be hard to hit the hay. But as Taylor Swift has told us repeatedly, you need to calm down. Try techniques that help you settle before you sleep, whether it be a warm bath or listening to a relaxing mix of your favorite tunes. Before you turn in for the night, turn off that tablet and ditch your digital devices. Who ever said you snooze you lose? Winners snooze! Getting enough sleep improves your ability to concentrate and gives your body a chance to rest and repair. You can try to trick your parents that you didn’t stay up all night talking to your BFF, but your skin will tell on you. It’s called beauty sleep for a reason.

It never hurts to give yourself a little pep talk in the mirror before you head out for the day, so always remember, there’s only one you, and you’re flawless. Refer back to this list as needed, and enjoy your youth!

How to Shape Your Eyebrows, According to a Brow Expert

Anyone who’s looked back on high school photos can tell you that eyebrow grooming completely changes your look. Most of us have graduated from the thin, tadpole brows of ’90s past, but even if you’ve achieved Brooke Shields-level perfect eyebrows, you probably don’t get there without a lot of work. No matter your current eyebrow situation, you can get beautiful and perfectly-shaped brows that complement your face — even if you don’t know where to begin.

“A little bit of filling in can make you look more awake,” says brow expert Sarah McQuarrie, Benefit Cosmetics’ National Brow Artist. Tending to your brows “can make you look more alert, a little bit younger, a little fresher, and you can do a little bit less makeup overall,” she says.

Below, you can learn exactly how to get your dream brows at home whether your eyebrows are a bit sparse due to over-plucking, or you need to do some strategic weed-whacking to find your best eyebrow shape again.

But before you even touch those tweezers, let’s dive into some eyebrow shaping FAQs:

Are my brows supposed to be identical?

Definitely not. “Nobody’s brows are perfectly even, and if they were, it would probably look weird,” says McQuarrie, so don’t stress if one brow is a bit unruly or difficult to maintain — it’s totally normal. “Brows are sisters, not twins, but we want them to look pretty closely related.”

Which eyebrow shape is best for me?

Start with brow mapping! “Don’t even try to do your brows without brow mapping, because that’s when we get in the disaster zone,” says McQuarrie. While it sounds intimidating, “mapping” actually just means identifying the three key parts of your brow, and marking them with brow makeup so that you can easily clean them up:

  1. Where your eyebrow should start: Use your brow pencil or finger to draw a straight line from the crook of your nose, up to the brow to see where it should start.
  2. Map out the arch in your eyebrow: Angle your brow pencil from the side of the nose through the iris of your eye to your brow to find the midpoint, which should be the peak of your arch.
  3. Where your eyebrow should end: Point your pencil from the side of the nose to the end of your brow, and mark the line where your brow’s tail should end.

Problem: Over-plucked, sparse brows → Solution: Brow make-up

First of all, don’t panic: Just because your brows aren’t as full as you’d like, patience and a good eyebrow pencil will get you through until your eyebrows grow back in fully (which can take anywhere from a few weeks to a year):

  1. Make sure your brow product is the right color. Whether you prefer a brow pencil, powder, or gel, McQuarrie says, “your brows are typically darker than the hair on your head.” Match accordingly for the best results.
  2. Hold the tool lightly to avoid overdrawn brows. (Pro tip: the further back you hold the pencil, the more featherlight and natural-looking your strokes will be!).
  3. Mimic the of direction hair growth with small, light strokes, being especially careful to work with a light hand toward the edges and inner corners: Otherwise, you risk an unnatural, blocky look.
  4. Think outside the box, and remember that you might need to draw in “some extra hairs, even though they [fall] outside of the natural brow line,” says McQuarrie.
  5. Keep a Q-Tip or spoolie (aka clean mascara wand) handy to blend lines and clean up mistakes. “Those are your BFFs,” McQuarrie says.
  6. When you’re satisfied with your shape, set with a brow conditioner to support growth. Repeat on your other brow.

Problem: Overgrown, shapeless brows → Solution: Tweeze and reshape

Having too much brow is more often better than having too little, and giving your thick brows a little shape is the best way to polish up your look. Without venturing outside of your brow mapping, clean up accordingly:

  1. After mapping your brows, take a spoolie and brush the hairs up, and trim any stray hairs along the top edge of your brows using a small, curved brow scissor with a rounded tip. “Don’t pull or push too much and just trim the ends,” advises McQuarrie.
  2. Using a good pair of tweezers, tackle any stray hairs that fall outside of your brow map, both below and above the brow.
  3. Set with gel or brow powder to set unruly brows in place and keep everything nice and symmetrical.
  4. Note: When reshaping, go slowly and tweeze one hair at a time: you can always take more away, but once you pull it, the hair is gone!

Problem: Long, unkempt brows → Solution: Trim brows with scissors

Love your brows, but feel like they have a mind of their own? In that case, you probably need to give them a good trim. The key, McQuarrie says, is to “just trim the ends” while being careful not to cut into the natural shape of the brow. Here’s how:

  1. Using a clean spoolie, brush the brows up and trim any excess hairs poking up. Then, brush the hairs downward and trim any super-long strays using brow shaping scissors.
  2. After you’ve trimmed up, use tweezers to nix any hairs that fall outside your brow map. Then, fill in with a brow pencil or powder for a polished look.
  3. Above all, McQuarrie encourages people to play with their brow shape to see how it impacts their looks. Plus, she says to remember to “have fun! It’s makeup, it comes off, it’s not permanent.”

How To Use Aspirin To Treat Pimples?

Source: https://health.clevelandclinic.org/

You wake up on the morning of a big work presentation to find — surprise! — an angry red zit staring back at you in the mirror.

If you find yourself in this predicament often, you’ll want to make an appointment to see a dermatologist, who can develop a maintenance plan to help keep your skin clear.

But for an occasional breakout, there’s an effective way to tame it at home.

The best way to make a zit go away fast is to apply a dab of benzoyl peroxide, which you can buy at a drug store in cream, gel or patch form, says Shilpi Khetarpal, MD. It works by killing bacteria that clog pores and cause inflammation. You can buy it in concentrations ranging from 2.5% to 10%.

“It’s inexpensive, it’s been around for many years and it’s very effective,” Dr. Khetarpal says.

But there’s one caveat: If you keep using it over and over again on the same spot, it may dry out or irritate your skin. So if your skin is sensitive, choose a product with a lower concentration of benzoyl peroxide.

What NOT to do to get rid of a pimple

You can watch pimple popping videos on the internet to your heart’s content, but Dr. Khetarpal recommends against trying it in real life.

“Any manipulation of a pimple can lead to more inflammation, which can increase the risk of scarring,” she explains. “And your hands are dirty, so you’re going to introduce more bacteria and potentially make it worse.”

Your best bet is to spot treat the pimple with benzoyl peroxide and then leave it alone.

Wearing makeup and covering it up is not a problem, but don’t poke or pick or squeeze it,” Dr. Khetarpal suggests. “It will resolve on its own.”

In a pinch, will these DIY remedies work?

An internet search turns up many quick fixes for pimples. Here’s Dr. Khetarpal’s take on some of the most common ones.

  • Toothpaste. Many kinds of toothpaste contain ingredients like alcohol or baking soda that may help dry out a pimple. But, toothpaste also contains other ingredients that aren’t intended to be put directly on your face. She cautions that using toothpaste to treat a pimple could possibly irritate your skin.
  • Tea tree oil. There’s good news here: Studies have shown that a small amount of tea tree oil can combat acne. But, Dr. Khetarpal warns that a small percentage of people are allergic to it. “If it works for you, great, but if you put it on your skin and find out you’re allergic to it, you’re going create a whole other problem,” she says.
  • Aspirin. Some people swear by crushing up an aspirin, putting a few drops of water on it, and dabbing that mixture onto their pimple. Aspirin’s active ingredient, acetylsalicylic acid, is similar to salicylic acid, a common anti-inflammatory ingredient in many skincare products. But according to acne treatment guidelines published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, there’s limited clinical evidence that salicylic acid is effective for treating acne. “Many dermatologists find that it just dries out the skin without giving much of a benefit,” Dr. Khetarpal says.
  • Ice or heat. If a pimple is red and swollen, ice can help temporarily quell the inflammation, but the effect will wear off quickly, she says. Similarly, holding a warm washcloth to the area may temporarily soothe irritated skin, but it won’t do anything for the pimple itself. “Those are just going to temporarily alleviate the discomfort, but the medication is going to be more effective for actually getting rid of the pimple,” she says.

So, while there are several things in your medicine cabinet that could work in a pinch, it might be worth investing in a benzoyl peroxide-containing product to have on hand for skincare emergencies.

Fantastic Ways To Use Cranberries For Your Hair And Skin

We often go for easy solutions, when it comes to looking beautiful. For most of us, cosmetics and beauty treatments are easy solutions but is it safe and sustainable? Well, the answer is No, simply because these chemical-based treatments are a quick fix but eventually impact the natural texture of skin and hair.
Interestingly, going for healthy solutions will not only help you to maintain that healthy glow in the long run that too without any ill effects. According to a few types of research, cranberries can work wonders for your skin as well as your hair. Not only their consumption but their application can give you naturally radiant skin and lustrous hair.

This superfood needs no introduction and is good for health. Loaded with the goodness of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and phytonutrients. Cranberries can cure several ailments, due to its amazing anti-inflammatory properties. These little red cranberries can be great for hair and skin. To know more about the amazing benefits of cranberries read on…

De-tan with cranberries This is an easy homemade remedy for hyper-pigmented skin. You just need some gram flour and mix it with cranberry juice. Due to the presence of antioxidants and astringent properties, cranberries help in removing pigmentation and leave the skin radiant and supple.

Radiant skin with cranberries
Yes, not only by eating but also by applying cranberries you can get a healthy and radiant skin. Mix yogurt and cranberry juice. The antioxidants present in it help in making the skin soft, supple, and glowing skin.

Cranberries for acne
Acne, pimples, and blemishes can actually ruin the way you look, well, consuming cranberries can be a better solution to fight it away, naturally. Well, that’s not all you can apply some homemade cranberries juice over the blemishes. The presence of vitamin C and due to its anti-inflammatory properties, it helps in curing acne. Regular application of this juice helps in fading of the acne marks.

Cranberries for a healthy scalp
Loaded with antioxidants, and antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which help in reducing the irritation caused due to itchy scalp. You just need to mix cranberry juice with egg white and apply this mixture and wash with cold water.

Cranberries for lustrous hair
This superfood food is a powerhouse of nutrients and is a rich of vitamins and proteins, which are not only good for health but at the same time can be great for your hair. Take a cup of mayonnaise and mix it with some cranberry juice, apply this for sometime and rinse off with cold water. This will make your hair naturally shining.

Red Wine For Skin: Ways To Use It For Facial Skincare

Source: https://food.ndtv.com/

Red wine has also been known to be heart-healthy and one of the healthiest drinks to partake in, while on a weight loss diet.

Red wine is one of the most popular alcoholic drinks around. Humans have been consuming the ruby red vino since time immemorial. The drink, which has been an instrument of leisure and relaxation for wine lovers, also comes with a number of health benefits. Some of the most well-known benefits of red wine are credited to the presence of antioxidants in the drink. Apart from being great for the skin, red wine has also been known to be heart-healthy and one of the healthiest drinks to partake in, while on a weight loss diet. This is because it has very less calories and the antioxidants and tannins present in the drink fight inflammation in the body. A number of scientific studies have vouched for the health and beauty benefits of that occasional glass of red wine. It is also used in a number of luxury facials and spa treatments around the world.

What makes it so unique, is it effective at all or just another fad. Can this be included in your beauty treatment, what do experts have to say about the beauty treatment, let’s find out.

However, its most important and direct benefits are for the skin. Red wine is believed to be one of the best anti-ageing drinks, not only because it may reduce the risks of heart diseases, strokes, and reverse cell damage, but also because it may have long-lasting effects on your skin and hair health.

Here are some purported health benefits of red wine for your skin:

  1. Helps fight skin ageing: Red wine may just help you age better. The presence of antioxidants like flavonoid, resveratrol and tannins fight skin ageing by restoring collagen and elastic fibres, reveals Anshul Jaibharat, a Delhi-based nutritionist.
  2. Helps you catch some beauty sleep: Red wine may also help you sleep better, due to the presence of melatonin, the hormone which regulates our sleep cycles.
  3. Improves complexion: Red wine may also help you get an even skin tone and regain that elusive glow on your face, which often gets lost due to excessive stress and pollution.
  4. Fights acne: Red wine also has antiseptic and antibacterial properties and can help fight acne breakouts. Applying red wine topically on your face can clear pores and hence, prevent acne. 

How To Do Red Wine Facial At Home:

A number of salons and spas across the world offer wine facial services and these often tend to be quite expensive. You can re-create the effects of these expensive facials at home, at a relatively lower cost. All you need is a bottle of good quality red wine and some basic ingredients which are readily available in almost every kitchen. Also, the results of the facial depend on the quality of the wine used, as different types of red wine, have different types and levels of antioxidants. For example, Pinot Noirs have the highest levels of resveratrol. Meanwhile, Shiraz, Cabernets and Merlots are rich in the antioxidant procyanidin. Red wine can be used in all the steps of a facial; right from cleansing, toning, scrubbing and even for normal facial massages.

  1. For Cleansing: Start out by cleaning your face with a clean, damp cloth. Mix a tablespoon of lemon juice with three or four tablespoons of red wine. Dip a clean cotton ball into this mixture and apply it all over your face. Gently massage the cleansing lotion on your face and after some time wash it off with a clean tissue paper.
  2. For Scrubbing: You can use red wine to create an exfoliating paste as well. Mix the wine with a good natural exfoliator, including ground rice, coffee, sugar, etc. Mix a few tablespoons of red wine with your exfoliator and mix it to make a rough paste. Apply this paste in circular motions to remove dirt and dead skin cells.
  3. For Massaging: Take some aloe vera gel or rose water, a few drops of any essential oil of your choice, and a tablespoon of red wine. Mix all three ingredients properly and massage it on your face gently. Use your fingertips to massage the paste onto your face and make sure you focus on all areas of the face including the forehead, chin, and under the eyes. This will help improve blood circulation on the face and will also let your whole face benefit from it. Massage your face for at least 10 minutes and then wipe the paste off.
  4. For Red Wine Face Pack: Red wine face pack can be made using two tablespoons; each of red wine and yogurt and one tablespoon of honey. Mix all the ingredients, apply it to your face and leave it on for 15 minutes. Wash it off with a damp cloth and notice the difference yourself.

So there you have it! You can use any of these steps independently or in combination, to improve the quality of your facial skin. If your skin is in any manner allergic to wine, or if you see anything unnatural happening to your skin. It is advisable to stop and consult a dermatologist or skin expert. 

(This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.)

Health Benefits Of Warm Water: 6 Ways Drinking Warm Water Can Heal Your Body

Most of us start our mornings with a fresh, hot cup of coffee or tea to warm our bodies after getting out of bed. When we drink water, we tend to prefer it cold, but according to Ayurvedic medicine, we have it all wrong. Regularly drinking very warm water, especially in the morning, can heal our bodies, providing digestive power and reducing metabolic waste that could have built up in our immune system.

“Physicians recommend drinking warm water in the morning, usually, with a polyphenol-rich lemon immersion, or with a tea shown to decrease free radical activity in the body,” Stella Metsovas, clinical nutritionist and media health expert in Food and Nutrition Sciences, told Medical Daily. The consumption of warm water increases the tightening of the intestines, which optimizes elimination. Unlike hot water, processed cold water is devoid of many essential minerals that could become very unfavorable to the digestive tract when consuming a meal. For cold water drinkers, Metsovas recommends refraining from drinking 20 minutes before eating — even if the source is natural spring water.

While drinking warm water may not suit your taste buds, it may be beneficial to put the caffeine and tea aside for your health’s sake. Here are six reasons why:

1. Cleanses Digestion

A very warm cup of water in the morning can help cleanse your body by flushing out toxins. Water and other liquids help break down the food in your stomach and keep the digestive system on track. Warm water will help break down these foods even faster, making them easier for you to digest. Drinking cold water during or after a meal can actually harden the oil in consumed foods and therefore create a fat deposit in the intestine. Adding ice to processed cold water will strip it of natural-containing minerals, says Metsovas, as these minerals are essential to keeping the digestive tract healthy. Luckily, you can replace a glass of cold water with a warm one to aid digestion, especially after eating a meal.


2. Aids Constipation

At one point or another, many of us are plagued by this common stomach problem where we have little to no bowel movement. The strain felt during elimination, accompanied by bloating, is brought on by a lack of water in the body. Drinking very warm water in the morning on an empty stomach can help improve bowel movements and aid constipation while breaking down foods as they smoothly pass through the intestines. Stimulating the bowels will help return your body back to normal functioning.


3. Alleviates Pain

Warm water, considered to be nature’s most powerful home remedy, can help alleviate pain from menstruation to headaches. The heat from warm water is known to have a calming and soothing effect on the abdominal muscles, which can help provide instant relief for cramps and muscle spasms. According to Healthline, warm or hot water is usually better for cramps, as hot liquids increase blood flow to the skin and help relax the cramped muscles.


4. Sheds Excess Pounds

If you’re on a diet, chances are you’ve heard drinking a glass of warm water first thing in the morning can help with weight loss. Warm water increases body temperature, which therefore increases the metabolic rate. An increase in metabolic rate allows the body to burn more calories throughout the rate. It can also help the gastrointestinal tract and kidneys to function even better.

“Physicians recommend drinking warm water in the morning, usually, with a polyphenol-rich lemon immersion, or with a tea shown to decrease free radical activity in the body,” said Metsovas to Medical Daily. Drinking a glass of warm water and a lemon will help break down the adipose tissue, or body fat, in your body, and also control food cravings due to the lemon’s pectin fiber.


5. Improves Blood Circulation

The fat deposits in the body are eliminated along with accumulating deposits in the nervous system when you drink a glass of warm water. This flushes out the toxins that are circulating throughout the body and then enhances blood circulation. Making sure the muscles are relaxed will eliminate poor circulation and blood flow.


6. Halts Premature Aging

Premature aging is a woman’s worst nightmare, but luckily, this can be prevented by drinking warm water. The presence of toxins in the body can lead to aging faster, but warm water can help cleanse the body from those toxins, while repairing skin cells to increase elasticity. Metsovas told Medical Daily: “Women will always benefit because they [have] more hormones to contend with, making constipation more of an issue.”

To reap the health benefits of warm water, drink it every morning plain or with a lemon for taste. Metsovas urges drinkers to have warm water, as drinking straight hot water can potentially be damaging to tissue in the mouth and esophagus. After boiling water, be sure to let it cool for a few minutes before you start consuming.  Also, “always check with your prescribing physician before drinking warm water if you’re on any medications that could impact the efficacy of your medications,” Metsovas said.

Tomatoes For Beauty Skin Care

It is a widely accepted fact that natural foods that are nutritious when consumed are also largely beneficial for the skin, hair, and other beauty-related purposes. Tomatoes are no exception. They are packed with nutrients including Vitamin AVitamin BVitamin C, magnesium, potassium, lycopene, and more. Tomatoes benefit the skin by exfoliating, fighting cellular damage, moisturizing, and reducing sunburn risk. Tomatoes can also help reduce oiliness, keep acne at bay, relieve skin irritation, brighten the skin, diminish signs of ageing and tighten pores.

Recipes

Exfoliation

This refers to the removal of dead skin cells to improve the health and appearance of facial skin. The enzymes in tomatoes help get rid of blackheads and cleanse the skin from deep within. It is mild yet effective which makes it great for people with sensitive or acne-prone skin.

Mix tomatoes with fine sugar and let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes so that it’s not as abrasive then rub it on your face. Let it sit for 15 minutes before applying it. Alternatively, if your skin is really sensitive, just crash the tomato and then apply the pulp to your face without adding sugar to the mix.

Reduce oiliness and/or moisturize

Tomatoes are a good source of potassium, the absence of which contributes to dry skin. For this reason, applying tomato directly to the skin has been linked to moisturizing it and addressing dry skin issues.

Simply cut a tomato in half and rub it all over your face. Leave the juice on for 10-15 minutes then rinse and clean.

Keep acne at bay

Adult acne is one of the most common skin concerns. Tomatoes promote skin cleansing and healthy pH levels which helps manage acne and prevent breakouts.

Simply add two to the drops of tea tree essential oil to tomato juice or pulp then spread it on your skin. Leave it on for 10-15 minutes then wash it off. Repeat two to three times a week to treat your acne-prone skin.

Relieve skin irritation

Sunburn, long hours in the sun, frequent makeup application, and overuse of anti-acne products can irritate the skin. Tomatoes are rich in anti-inflammatories which combat inflammation and help soothe irritation.

Add cucumber juice to tomato pulp, mix it well then apply it to your face. Rinse off after 15-20 minutes. Repeat daily or multiple times a week until the irritation goes.

Brightens skin

This is great for people who don’t particularly have a skincare routine in place or who skip wearing sunscreen which ends up making their skin look dull and uneven. Vitamins C, E, and beta carotene in tomatoes even out skin tone as well as brighten skin and reveal its natural complexion.

Mix tomato pulp with a tiny amount of turmeric powder, about ¼ teaspoon. If you have rice flour, you can add 2 teaspoons as well and mix it all together. Rice flour is an added benefit but the face mask can work without it. Massage the pulp into the skin, paying close attention to areas like the nose and T-zone where blackheads are more common. Keep it on until it dries up then rinse it off.

Youthful, supple skin

Tomato stimulates collagen which is a protein that gives skin its structure, enhancing the texture of your skin and improving its elasticity. This keeps your skin soft and supple at every age.

Mix tomato pulp with yoghurt. Apply it on your face and leave it on for 15-20 minutes.

You can be creative and make your own unique tomato facial recipes with your favourite natural foods and fruits including honeyavocadolemon juiceoatmeal, gram flour, bananacucumber, buttermilk, jojoba, and olive oil.

Why jackfruit is good for diabetes heres the answer

Source: https://food.ndtv.com/

While a lot of people might know or have heard about jackfruit, very few people know about its health benefits, especially for diabetics.

Jackfruit, the largest tree-borne fruit, is known by many names across the country and world, and is used in cooking in an even more varied style. While some tropical countries use ripened jackfruit to make custards and cakes, in southern India, it is extensively used with rice to make idlis and dosas. The powdered form of the fruit has binding capabilities, and is thus, added to the idli or dosa batter to make a healthy high-fiber breakfast. In the northern part of the country, jackfruit or ‘kathal’ is used as an occasional gourmet vegetable, commonly referred to as the vegan’s chicken. The leaves and even the seeds of this fruit are edible and are used in different ways by culinary maestros. The seeds of the fruit are considered protein-rich and are served roasted in Kerala, which is the largest producer of jackfruit in the world. Jackfruit truly is the ‘jack of all tastes.

While a lot of people might know or have heard about this versatile fruit, very few people know about its health benefits, especially the health benefits for diabetics. Unlike ripe jackfruit, raw jackfruit that has a lower glycemic load can help you balance your blood sugar levels.

Raw jackfruit, due to its low acidity level, is one of the fruits that can be consumed as a replacement to your regular intake of carbohydrates. So, if you substitute a bowl of cooked white rice with raw jackfruit, its high soluble fiber content helps you keep your sugar levels in control or even lower the risk of developing the condition.  

The presence of natural sugars and fiber in the fruit may actually help control blood sugar levels in diabetics or lowers the risk of having diabetes. It prevents and manages diabetic symptoms by regulating the release of glucose and insulin in the body and improving insulin sensitivity. Moreover, the powdered jackfruit seeds are known to give instant relief from indigestion. Sundry the seeds first and then grind them to a powder. Store this powder for a quick, homemade remedy for indigestion. You can also consume jackfruit seeds directly for constipation as it is a rich source of dietary fiber. All of these conditions, if not treated in time, may result in diabetes.

Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.

Garlic for hair growth tips and benefits

Source: bebeautiful.in

Oh, the things we do to keep our precious locks from falling out! We bet no girl finds hair loss an easy problem to deal with. Although natural and common, hair loss is the most frustrating of all hair woes. Luckily, there are some hair heroes that you can find in your kitchen cabinet which can help you fight hair loss giving you long fuller hair.

One such wonder ingredient is garlic. Small and stinky, but full of goodness. Here are three useful ways to put that garlicky goodness to work for longer, fuller hair.

Garlic and onion have been an age-old remedy for hair loss. The two ingredients strengthen hair follicles and prevent hair loss. Blend and strain 2 onions and 4-5 garlic cloves and extract the juice. Apply on hair and massage the scalp. Leave the mixture on for 10 minutes and wash hair with shampoo as usual.

Depending on your hair and scalp type indulge in regular oil massages to prevent dryness in your hair. Garlic and onion have been an age-old remedy for hair loss. The two ingredients strengthen hair follicles and prevent hair loss. Blend and strain 2 onions and 4-5 garlic cloves and extract the juice. Apply on hair and massage the scalp. Leave the mixture on for 10 minutes and wash hair with shampoo as usual.

Selenium in garlic provides Vitamin E to hair which prevents breakage, and hair fall and helps regrow hair. Honey on the other hand locks in moisture and conditions hair. Mince about 8 cloves of garlic and mix it with 2 tablespoons of honey to prepare a mask. Apply it onto the hair and let it rest for 20 minutes. Wash off and repeat twice a week.

These two power ingredients help boost hair growth, rid you of dandruff and nourish hair, improving overall hair health. Crush 5-6 cloves of garlic and mix it with warm coconut oil. Pamper yourself with the hot oil massage for about half an hour so the oil seeps into the scalp. Wash hair with a mild shampoo and condition as usual.

Long, short, pixie, bob, no matter what hair length or cut you have, no girl can escape the curse of tangled hair. If your morning workout is removing tangles from your hair, we have some tips that will allow you some time for the actual gym. Because constant detangling can do more harm than good to your mane, here are some things to keep in mind…