Our feet are definetely the most ignored and badly treated part of the body. Let's admit it that most of us probably do not think about our feet until they start complaining. If you have been neglecting your feet lately, decide immediately to rectify the mistake. Make it a point to give your feet all the extra care they deserve to make up for the years of neglect. If you ignore to deal with your feet problems now, they can become worse and even turn serious in course of time. Well shaped and soft feet are beauty assets which are in total display in those sexy strappy sandals. But for the good health of your feet, it is necessary to keep them in good shape throughout the year. Here are a few random tips to keep your feet in pristine condition.

* Regularly soak feet in warm water to which 2 tbspns of Epsom Salt have been thrown in. Leave your feet immersed in this solution for 15 mins.

* Daily abrassion is the key to soft smooth feet, use a pumice stone or foot file daily during bath.

* Scrubbing is another important aspect in foot care. Take a tspn of oil, vegetable/olive/almond oil, and add some sea salt and gently scrub your feet for about 5-10 mins. Wash off while bathing.

* Apply foot cream liberally at night before retiring. If foot creams donot work for you, mix together 2 tbspns of lemon juice and 1 1/2 tbspns of glycerin a small bottle and massage into your feet every night. Wear cotton socks and see how well moisturised they are.

* in a basin of hot water, add a tbspn of mustard oil and soak your feet in it for 15 mins. Step under the tap and allow cold water to run over your feet. This is great for relaxing your feet.

* Massage a couple of drrops of almond oil into your feet, you can also add almond oil to your regular foot cream for added benefits.

That's it for now, hope you enjoy reading this post. Thank you and have a great time :)

Dandruff is the most serious hair problem that affects mosst of us. But this problem should be cured as soon as possible. Dandruff can be of 2 types- Dry flaky scalp condition that fall off the hair and Greasy condition which is known as seborrheic dermatitis, this condition is caused by over active sebaceous glands. Ultimately dandruff leads to hair loss and even baldness. With determination and preservance you can overcome this condition. Simple home recipes can be used for effective control of dandruff.

Dandruff can be controlled substantially by following a strict diet of Vitamins B, C & E and unrefined carbohydrates.

* Hot Oil Treatment is the simplest method to cure dandruff. Massage hot Olive, Aloe or Almond Oil into scalp. Wrap a hot towel around the head and rinse off. Alternatively massage hot oil into scalp and leave it overnight.

* Mix Cedar Vinegar in hot water and apply all over scalp. Leave it overnight and rinse off in the morning using an egg shampoo.

* Apply a beaten egg to the scalp once a week, wash off with shampoo

* Mix 4 Tbspns of whey with 4 tbspns of camphor water. Apply all over scalp and leave on for atleast 3 hours and wash off

* Gind fresh Fenugreek/meethi leaves to a fine paste and apply to the scalp. Also you can add sour curd to the above paste. Leave it on for 30 mins and wash off

* Apply some brandy with cotton ball all over scalp, it is said to clear dandruff

* Extract thick coconut milk by add a little water to grated coconut, add the juice of half a lemon and apply all over scalp with cotton ball. Leave it on for 30 mins and wash off

* Instead of using a dryer, dry hair naturally. Use minimum hair spray/fixer etc

Hope you like this post on dandruff and share with us your recipes. Thank you and do have a Happy Monday :)

Good Morning girls, I love yogurt and I think most of you do too. Yogurt is an excellent cleansing, softening as well as binding agent. It is suitable for all skin types, hence we can combine yogurt with many other ingredients to form various combination of masks.

* Yogurt combined with tomato pulp serves as a good astringent, therefore is great for oily skin.

* Yogurt and mashed/pureed cucumber has a toning and freshening effect. Also whitens the skin and works great as a pre-party mask.

* When yogurt is combined with crushed parsley leaves it makes an excellent mask for combination skin.

* A mixture of yogurt and honey works well as a powerful moisturiser for dry skin.



* Yogurt in combination with egg white irons out wrinkles, whitens and softens the skin. Best suited for oily and combination skin types.

* Yogurt can be combined with equal parts of fuller's earth/multani mitti and fresh mint juice. This mask is effective against pimples/acne, best suited for oily acne-prone skin.

All yogurt based masks must be first washed off with warm water and then finished off with a splash of cool water. Hope you all like reading this and get benefitted by yogurt. Yumm... how much I love it :D Have a beautiful day ahead. Thanks :)

Good Morning everyone :) Today we have five home made anti-wrinkle recipes with us. Home made anti-wrinkle masks are safe and effective in producing visible tightening and smoothening benefits. Actively combats wrinkles, lines and bags caused by fatigue and ageing. So say no to painfull ways of reducing wrinkle and using a natural anti-wrinkle face pack while still young.

* Honey Anti-wrinkle Mask:-
Mix together 1 1/2 tbspn of honey and half a tspn of carrot juice. Apply on face and leave it on for 20 mins. Remove using a cotton ball dipped in warm water to which a pinch of soda bi carb has been added.

* Cream Mask:-
Combine the white of an egg with a tbspn of cream, preferably fresh. Apply on face and neck and keep it on for 20 mins. Rinse with warm water. This mask very effectively erases facial lines.

* Banana Mask:-
Mash a ripe banana and mix in 1 tbspn of rose water. Apply it as often as possible. Wash off with tepid water after 30 mins. If used regularly it helps to postpone wrinkles.

* Cucumber Anti-wrinkle Pack:-
Beat the white of an egg till stiff. Add a tspn of cucumber juice, half a tspn of honey, 1 tbspn of mint juice and 1 tspn of curd. Blend well and apply on face thickly. Leave on for 15 minutes and rinse off with tepid water.

* Egg white Anti-wrinkle facial:-
Whisk the white of an egg and spread all over face to tighten the skin and iron out wrinkles. Rinse off with tepis water after 20 mins. You can also apply the unbeaten white of an egg on neck and around eyes to reduce crow's feet and sagging skin.

Hope you enjoy reading, preparing and using these anti-wrinkle packs. Have a beautiful day ahead. Thanks :)

Good Morning everyone, today I have the herbal/natural way for those of us who are obsessed with skin whitening, here are a few recipes to help lighten skin tone.

* A paste made of sandalwood powder and rose water can be applied daily for good results.

* Turmeric paste combined with sandalwood paste/powder makes skin noticeably fairer.

* Cucumber juice alone or in combination with fuller's earth or gramflour is considered to be an excellent skin whitener.

* Coconut milk combined with equal quantity of cucumber juice is another great recipe for skin whitening. Apply this mixture as often as possible.

* Gently massage coconut water all over face and neck to lighten skin tone.

* De-seed and mash grapes, apply all over face and neck liberally. This helps to make skin much fairer.

* Almonds ground to a paste using milk or rose water is said to white skin.

* Make a paste using red sandalwood and rose water. This preparation not only whitens skin but also helps to fade away minor scars and blemishes from the skin.

Hope you all enjoy reading this post and share with us your personal fairness recipe. Thanks :)

Face packs are excellent beauty revivers and they provide the skin with an instant wonder glow. Packs lend a smooth complexion to the user, they are said to be more effective after steam treatment. Today I have for you four face packs that are made with vegetables and they are also very easy to prepare. So hope that you enjoy making and applying these natural face packs.

Carrot Pack:-
Carrot contains plenty of vitamin A which is excellent for sensitive skin. Grate half a carrot and extract the juice. Take a quarter tspn of honey and mix with carrot juice. With the help of a cotton ball/pad pat the solution over face and neck. Leave on for 10-15 mins and rinse off with tepid water.


Avocado Pack:-
This pack will be perfect for dry skin as avocado has nourishing properties. Mash quarter avocado and the beaten yolk of an egg. Now mix well with half a tspn of either honey or safflower oil. Apply on face and neck and rinse off with tepid water after 15-20 mins.


Potato Pack:-
This pack is ideal for dry as well as normal skin. Take 1 tbspn of grated raw potato and add half a tspn of curd. Mix well and apply on face and neck. Let it dry or keep it on for 20 mins and rinse off with tepid water.


Tomato Pack:-
This pack is perfect for oily skin. Mash a medium sized ripe tomato and mix in very finely grated lemon rind and a few drops of lemon juice. Apply all over face and rinse off after 10 mins with tepid water.

So thats it for today. Hope you like the packs. Please share your veggie pack recipes with us if you have one. Thanks :)

Showers are a good perk up in the morning. A great way to start your day. Showers are quick and stimulate your body.

Start with tepid shower and end with a blast of cold water for just a second. Allow thie powerful spray to come down on your body. Give your body an invigorating buff with a body brush/loofah. Use a mild shower gel in a citrusy fragrance. Rinse off with the sting of shower.

Dry vigorously, using a towel folded lengthwise. Clasp the ends of towel and see-saw your back and lower back dry.

Smooth on a rich moisturising body lotion for that soft and shiny skin.

Never soak yourself in a very hot bath. Fill the tub with hot water roughly 7 inches deep and add required quantity of cool water to make the water bearable but not hot or cold. Add 6 tbspn of Epsom salt and climb into the tub.

Your lower body till your waist must be immersed in the water. Now splash water all over yourself and follow by rubbing and scrubbing your body. Clean finger/toe nails with a nail brush and scrub off dead cells on your heels with a pumice stone or foot file.

Use a body brush to clean the skin on your back and shoulders as these areas are more prone to blemishes. A loofah/sponge can be used for the rest of your body, with firm circular movements.

Slide further into the tub and gently rub your stomach with a loofah in a clock wise direction. This will encourage circulation and help to break down cellulite buildup. Step out and rinse with plain water. Dry with a soft fluffy towel. Apply body lotion in a fragrance you love.

For a herbal soak- Sage leaves, Rose petals, Lavender and Sea Salt can be mixed together into a small muslin bag. Run hot water through the muslin bag and fill up the tub as required. Soak in this precious water for a luxurious feeling. It leaves your skin feeling soft and silky.

* If you have dry skin, mix together Sandalwood Powder, Milk Cream (malai) and a pinch or 2 of Turmeric Powder. Use this on your face and neck daily. This will give a glow to your skin softening it in the process.


* Apply a solution of 1 pinch of Saffron and a spoonful of Unboiled milk with the help of a cotton pad, on your face and neck continuously for 15 days atleast. This helps to clear up your complexion.


* Another recipe for dry skin, soak 1 tsp red Masoor Dal in a little milk overnight. Make a coarse paste a in the morning and apply on your face and neck for 20 mins and wash off. Substitute milk with rose water for oily skin.

* If you have oily skin, soak a little Moong Dal in unboiled milk and make a coarse paste. Use this paste on your face, neck and nape for 10 mins and gently scrub off. Wash and use your regular lotion. Scrubbing removes the dead cells from the surface of the skin and adds an instant glow.


* Another recipe for oily skin to make their skin glowing, mix together 1 tsp orange peel powder, 1 tsp fenugreek seed powder and a little orange juice. Apply on your face, neck and nape and scrub off when it dries.


* Take half piece ripe banana, mash it and add a little cucumber juice and apply on your face and neck. Keep it on for 30 mins and wash off.

* Mix together 1 tsp potato juice, a few drops of mosambi juice and few drops of cucumber juice, apply on your face and neck. Wash off after 20 mins.

* Soak 2 almonds in milk overnight, make paste in the morning and apply on your face and neck. Scrub off after 30 mins. Good for dry as well as normal skin.


* For bright and glowing body (skin), mix together besan and pure mustard oil. Apply on full body for 30 mins and scrub off. Once a week is good enough.


* Apply a mixture of honey and lemon juice on your face and neck. Keep it on for 15 mins and wash off. Honey is a powerful natural moisuriser and lemon is a natural bleach and astringent.

VLCC PEDIGLOW FOOT CARE KIT- REVIEW

1 Kit for INR 400

Contains:-

Pediglow Foot Cleanser 100 ml

Pediglow Foot Scrub 50 gms

Pediglow Foot Cream 50 gms

Pediglow Foot Spray 100 ml

For INR 400

Method Of Use:-

Step 1:- Add 4 tspn of Pediglow Foot Cleanser into a bucket with lukewarm water. Soak your feet for 15-20 mins. Rinse and wipe with a hot towel.

Step 2:- Apply Pediglow Foot Scrub well and massage into cuticles for about 5 mins. Scrub the dead tissue and gently clean any foot cracks. Wipe off with a hot towel.

Step 3:- Apply Pediglow Foot Cream generously all over your feet and massage well into cuticles for about 10 mins. Wipe off with a hot towel.

Step 4:- Spray Pediglow Foot Spray all over your feet. Feel the freshness that gets you ticking.

Pediglow Foot Cleanser:- This deep cleanser with Soapnut n Margosa removes pollutants from the pores and softens thick tissue. It also fights against foot infection and harmful germs.

Contains:- Soapnut, Daruhaldi, Shikakai, Dalchini, Lemongrass Oil, Margosa, Sodium Louryl Ether Sulphate.

Pediglow Foot Scrub:- This exquisite scrub goes a long way in ensuring beautiful feet. Walnut exfoliates dead foot tissue while Lemongrass stimulates blood circulation for best foot health.

Contains:- Walnut Shell Powder, Lemongrass Oil, Fenugreek, Glycerin, Triclosan, Allantoin, Salicylic Acid.

Pediglow Foot Cream:- An ultra softening cream with Cocoa Butter n Orange Oil. A complete reviver made of select herbs, that nourish your feet.

Contains:- Orange Oil, Fenugreek, Margosa, Cocoa Butter, Olive Oil, Menthol.

Pediglow Foot Spray:- It provides you the odourless feet. Patchouli n Lemongrass Oil cast a fresh spell and Costus's antiseptic properties keep foot infections at bay.

Contains:- Patchouli Oil, Liqourice, Lemongrass Oil, Menthol, Triclosan, Glycerin.

My Opinion:- 

Foot Cleanser

                 Pedicures are a luxury for most of us. I personally go for it once a month in the winters and twice a month in the summers. But I continue to pamper my feet every week with VLCC Pediglow Foot Care Kit. During the hot days we wear strappy sandals which gives maximum exposure to our feet from the sun and other pollutants. Also the rainy season can bring in some unwanted infection etc, so its gets very important to take extra care of our feet at this time.

                  This is where this Pediglow Foot Care Kit comes to my rescue, it fulfills my need of maintaining hygiene and pampering my feet at the same time. I follow the instructions religiously but I use 1 lid full of foot cleanser in half a bucket of water instead of the said amount of 4 tsp. The cleanser comes in a flip top plastic bottle and the smell is on the stronger side, smells of soapnut. After soaking for a good amount of time, I use the foot scrub which comes in tub form, its protected with a plastic cover/lid to avoid spillage. It smells very much like Lemongrass. I keep massaging the thick scrub on my feet and cuticles, use a foot file if necessary. This needs to be wiped off with a hot towel and you will already see your feet much cleaner. Then a good massage with the thick foot cream on my feet taking utmost care of my cuticles. Then a spritz of the refreshing foot spray completes my pedicure.
 

Foot Scrub

                     The foot cleanser is similar in consistency to most hair shampoos, its runny and foams well. It cleans off my feet making it soft but not dry. The foot scrub has granules that are just right for the feet, it removes rough spots and is not too abrasive. This scrub foams to some extent and is quite creamy in texture. Also the foot cream is watery and get absorbed fast into the thick skin of the feet. It softens the cuticles easily and a little goes a long since it spreads so easily. This cream gives the required moisturisation to my feet. Lastly, the foot spray which I have fallen in love with. It is like a perfume/toner in a spray bottle, it  comes with citrus fragrance which is very refreshing.

Foot Cream

                        These 4 products combined together gives a gives a good much needed DIY pedicure to relieve tired feet and keep them in tip top condition. Also these 4 products are sold separately and you can get them if 1 of the product gets finished up sooner than the others. I feel relaxed and this treatment at the comforts of my home re-energises me. My feet are clean and soft instantly. I religiously indulge my feet in this treatment and visit a salon once or twice a month. My feet are in pristine condition and I flaunt them with strappy sandals :)

Pros:-
* Its a handy kit and comes with all required info regarding 'how tos' of a DIY pedicure


* Packaging is very good, travel friendly

Foot Spray

* Affordable at Rs 400 per kit


* Improves the overall condition of the feet


* A little goes a long way as you need very little product for each pedicure

* Feet feels rejuvenated and looks well cared for


Cons:-
* Its a bit of a hassle doing the pedicure yourself but its worth giving a try. The not so obsessed ones like me can saves a lot of bucks by cutting off trips to parlors for pedicures.


                      I rate this product 5 out of 5 as it helps me keep my feet in great shape all the time. The feeling of having well groomed feet at all times is mentally satisfying for me :P This Pediglow pedicure kit is a must try for all the girls who want to care for their precious feet and make them beautiful. Right now I am on my 2nd kit :)

250 ml for INR 149

Company Says:-

 

Active Ingredients:-

Ingredients:-

To Use:-

My Opinion:-

                    Since a year or so I have taken a fancy to body lotions. So I have experimented with many different brands, and liked most of them. Lately I have started using Avon skin and body products as you all might know that Avon is 1 of my fave brands. A body lotion is necessary for maintaining the moisture of the skin. During the hot days we bathe 2-3 times so the requirement of a body cannot be denied.

                   

                    My arms and legs are dry in the winters but during the summers the skin turns to kind of normal. I have by now got into this habit of applying a body lotion all over my body before retiring to bed at night, after taking a refreshing bath ofcourse. Last summer my HG body lotion was the NMFe Body Lotion but this year I have switched to Avon

                    The bottle is a combination of bright yellow and orange which I like very much. The fragrance sweet fruity but nowhere near papaya. It is a white light weight lotion with watery consistency. The texture of this lotion is thin but not runny. A little lotion goes a long way as it gets spreads easily on my skin without leaving any trace of greasiness.

                    Just 3-4 pumps are needed for the entire body so it will not finish off before 30-40 days. It moisturises my skin making it soft and silky but with the much hated oiliness. You don't have to wait for it to get absorbed for 15 mins because it blends into the skin immediately.

                   This body lotion is enriched with natural extracts of Papaya, milk and soybeans. It boosts of a lightening action of the skin which I have noticed to some extent but then it plumps up my skin and gives a healthy glow which is more important to me. Stays on all night through and in the morning I still get a little scent which is very refreshing.

Swatch

Pros:-

Non-greasy non-sticky formula

Plumps up my skin

Whitening effect on my skin

Cheap :D

Keeps my skin moisturised

Fragrance is awesome

Cons:-

Doesn't contain sun protection

Contains Paraben

               I rate this body lotion 4.25 out of 5 (-.75 because it is without sun protection). I will surely repurchase this body lotion again and again as I am in love with. But then body lotions are flings not affairs for me ;)Also I am waiting to see how it behaves in the winters of Delhi :)

50 gms for INR 249

Company Says:-

To Use:- 

Ingredients:- 

My Opinion:- Summers call for sunblocks and till now I have never found my HG sunblock lotion :( Therefore, I keep trying different brands in the hope of getting my HG sunblock lotion. This time I tried Avon's Sun SPF 40 PA+++ Sunblock Lotion. This lotion contains SPF 40 which gives good protection and also PA+++ which also gives UVA protection. The PA rating are- PA+, PA++, PA+++ and the higher the '+' the higher is the protection from sunburn caused by UVA rays.

               The bright blue bottle is small and cute, it comes with a flip lid. It has a light texture though it is not runny or watery. But it is not thick also. It has a mild fragrance which I cant relate to anything. The fragrance doesn't stay on for long after application. The fragrance is not nauseating but I don't like it :( This lotion gets absorbed into the skin immediately without leaving the whitish cast most sunblocks do. A small blob of lotion is enough for the face and neck.

                Though this lotion is very light weight, it leaves my skin a little greasy. I have to dust my face with loose powder to decrease this oiliness but this trick doesn't work for more than an hour. Neither it broke me out nor did it irritate my skin but it made my skin a little more oilier than it used to be, during the course of its application. Another problem I had with this lotion is that it leaves my skin looking a little dark and makes me sweat more than I generally do.

Pros:-

¤ Contain SPF 40 PA+++

¤ Absorbs well into the skin

¤ Doesn't leave white cast on the skin

¤ Contains Aloe Vera

¤ I didn't broke out after using it

¤ No irritation/allergy experienced, good for sensitive skin

Cons:-

¤ 50 gms for Rs 249 is pricey

¤ Makes me sweat

¤ Not suitable for my oily skin as it adds to the greasiness

¤ Not waterproof

               I rate this product 3 out of 5. I would recommend it to girls with dry and sensitive skin. I will not repurchase this sunblock lotion again as it doesn't suit my oily skin.

                            Ever despaired of wearing that strand of pearls or that delicate chain of gold? All because you were ashamed of your ugly neck? Don't worry, help is at hand. You regularly cleanse, tone and moisturise your face. Your feet are scrubbed and your hands well manicured. But ignoring your neck is sure to affect your looks. All that lack of attention will show as a darker, unsightly and if not careful, a wrinkled neck that detracts people with its sheer unseemliness. Usually, all salon treatments like facials do good to your neck. If your neck is darker than the rest of you, try bleaching but not at home. Don't forget to cleanse, tone and moisturise it. Be generous with the sunscreen lotion and the anti-wrinkle cream.

Toning the neck

                            Want to get rid of that stubborn double chin and lift up your neck? Try out this exercise and you'll soon notice the difference.

1. Sit straight, erect with your chin held high. Keep your lips closed. Try and smile with only your upper lip.

2. Place one hand at the base of your throat over the collar bone and pull down slightly on the skin with a firm grip

3. Tilt your head. You will feel a strong pull on the chin and neck muscles. Return to your normal head position.

Repeat the exercise 30 times. If your neck and chin are posing problems, do this exercise twice a day.

            Besides accentuating the flavor of your favorite foods, spices can spice up your life by boosting immune function. Garlic has been shown to prevent heart disease, cancer and has anti-biotic properties. For best results use fresh garlic cloves and mash, and add it to dishes just prior to serving. Cinnamon, cumin, clove, black pepper, mustard, hot pepper and chilli powders can act as anti-oxidants, anti-cancer elements and can actually raise the metabolism of the body and aid in fat burning, even in small doses!

             Studies advocate an anti-oxidant supplement consisting of beta-carotene, Vitamins C and E, as 'nutritional insurance' against cardiovascular diseases, cancer and aging. Although such pills are not to be mistaken for substitutes to a well-balanced menu, pills containing 6 to 15 mg. of beta carotene, 250 to 500 mg. of Vitamin C and 133 to 533 mg. of Vitamin E are advisable on a daily basis, particularly if you are on a low fat diet. The latter is found in cereals, almonds, hazelnuts, wheat germ, sunflower oil and corn puffs and retards aging. Selenium found in wheat, rice, oats, corn, garlic, onions, turkeys and fish and alpha-lipoic acid found in potatoes and red meats are new and powerful anti-oxidants. The latter has even been shown to slow down the progression of HIV infection to clinical AIDS.

                   The fact is all of us want to stay healthy and increase our chances of living longer. So make it a point to pick up these anti-ageing foods on your next trip to the supermarket. Chances are, what you choose will determine how long you live and how young you stay along the way.

              Unfortunately, the standard grain choices for most families are white, bleached wheat flour and polished white rice. These are devoid of nutrients, which are found in fresh, baked foods enriched with barley, brown rice, corn, millet, oats, rye or whole wheat. Fresh baked breads and rolls, pastas and tortillas, low-fat/non-fat muffins and low-fat biscuits, chips, crackers and cookies offer unique tastes, textures and nutrient profiles. So look for such foods in the packaging of foods you buy or inquire in the bakery that you frequently visit.

             Legumes are inexpensive nutrient rich food sources, virtually free of cholesterol, low in fat and a great source of complex carbohydrates and proteins. They are especially beneficial for diabetics. Soy (a legume) in the form of soya beans, soy milk and soy protein have unique anti-cancer properties. In addition, rajmah, chanas, cholas, moong, peas, lentils and all dried and canned beans are rich in a variety of nutrients including soflavones- these reduce the risk of ovarian and breast cancer.

             Nuts can delay the aging process too. Cashews, almonds, peanuts and walnuts must be eaten in moderation owing to their high calorie and fat content. But since these foods are high in poly and mono-unsaturated fats (good fats), they have a beneficial effect on the heart. Remember that a gram of fat provides nine calories to the body, regardless of its nature i.e. saturated or unsaturated. The latter, however is essential to good health.

Miscellaneous food:-

               Omega-3:- Even a single weekly consumption of omega-3 rich fish salmon, mackerel, sardines, spirulina (a seaweed, high in protein) can reduce blood triglyceride levels and provide modest yet significant protection against heart disease and lower blood cancer. Other sources include green leafy veggies, fruits, dry beans, soy protein and walnuts.

              Yogurt:- Yogurts are easy to digest even by those who are lactose intolerant. Yogurt acts by preventing several forms of cancer, besides providing a rich source of calcium. Use low fat milk for optimum benefits.

              If we follow a low fat, vegetarian or semi-vegetarian diet, we can slow down the aging process. A diet rich in vitamins, minerals, fiber, complex carbohydrates and a newly discovered range of anti-aging, anti-disease chemicals called phytochemicals, can reverse the process of aging.

             Fresh fruits are great for youth. Berries, such as blue berries, strawberries, currents, jamuns, etc., and apples contain ellagic acid, which contain anti-cancer properties. Apples, in particular, contain ferrulic acid (anti-cancer) and octacosanol (anti-Parkinson-ism element). Hence an apple a day really does keep the doctor away!

            Apricots contain six carotenoids, with anti-aging properties.

            Bananas contain catechols, which aid immune function.

            Berries also contain anthocyanosides which may help prevent heart disease.

            Papayas, mango, pineapple and watermelon have anti-cancer properties.

            Citrus fruits, like oranges, lemons, lime and grapefruits contain flavonones to fight cancer, besides being rich source of Vitamin C and fiber.

            Vitamin C in oranges, papayas, guavas, tomato soups and citrus drink concentrates is associated with lower mortality.

             To keep age at bay, vegetables are the best bet. Tomatoes contain an estimated 10,000 phytochemicals, including lycopene, p-coumaric acid and chlorgenic acid, all of which are anti-cancer substances, and also GABA, which may aid in the prevention of high blood pressure. It's time to get saucy!

             Cruciferous vegetables like cabbage, cauliflower, turnips and radishes aid in the prevention of breast cancer. Potatoes benefit immune function and carrots are a rich source of beta carotene, a precursor to Vitamin A and the maintenance of visual function. Celery has a possible role in the prevention of skin ailments and the prevention of lymphoma. Onions help lower blood cholesterol levels.

             Beta Carotene found in sweet potatoes, pumpkin, carrot soup, red or orange veggies, fruits with colored skins and green leafy veggies, is associated with a lower risk towards heart attack, strokes and death.

                         Eating fats for better skin may sound fishy but it is a fact that fats especially in fish can do wonders for the skin. Eat fish atleast twice a week. The fats in ghee and vanaspati are saturated fats, the kind that clog arteries and contribute to reduce nutrition to skin, heart other structures. But there is a class of fats called unsaturated fats (PUFAs) that can actually stall or reverse these hazardous effects.

                        

                           Recent research studies have showed that when a balance exists between omega-3 fatty acids (fish oils and over the counter fish oil pills) and omega-6 fatty acids (safflower, sunflower and corn oil), then conditions are ideal for optimum skin. The problem is that most of us get little omega-3's and a lot more omega-6 fatty acids in the diet. All PUFAs are essential, to help us absorb the fat soluble vitamins A, D and E. A deficiency of these vitamins could result in red and irritated skin. Other seafood such as oysters are fortified with zinc, iron and copper- all essential in skin care.

                         So now you know all the facts, start eating healthy today ! Your skin will thank you for it. After all beauty lies not in the eyes of the beholder but in the hands of the smart eater =D

           Hi Girls, today I have for you a couple of things that can mar your good looks.

           First one in the list is Crash Diets. Crash Diets are the biggest culprits when it comes to destroying the skin. The elastic network of collagen fibers breaks down when you rapidly lose weight, and that in turn promotes the formation of premature wrinkles.

             Excessive alcohol is another notorious beauty robber. Among other things, it can cause tiny facial capillaries to burst, resulting in unsightly spidery lines. It also prevents your system from properly utilizing the nutrients in foods, so that even if you eat a balanced diet, you are still at risk for a vitamin or mineral deficiency, if you're a heavy drinker.

             Iodine in seafood, especially in shrimp can spark a temporary rash in people with allergies. Some of us may be sensitive to iodine and may not realize it. Switching away from iodized salt, or reducing the consumption of seafood can reduce the tendency towards inflammation and breakout in some individuals.

            Lastly, avoid or cut down on caffeine, alcohol, tobacco, spicy food and extreme temperatures, if you have fragile, superficial blood vessels

             That's it for the day, I will be back with more. Till then eat right. Bye girls

AVON NATURALS HAND GEL- SWATCH, PICS & REVIEW

Anti-Bacterial Hand Gel

50 ml for INR 129

Company Says:- Proven to fight germs and tough dirt to keep your hands feeling clean and refreshed with a light fragrance. Naturals Hands Gels, do not dry up hands, instead help retain skin's natural moisture making your hands feel soft and smooth without a sticky residue. Rub a coin-size amount of the gel on your hand, that's it!

No soap, No water required!

To Use:- Apply generous amount to hands and rub into skin until dry. Use any time or any place, as needed.

Ingredients:- Ethyl Alcohol, Water, Glycerin, Propylene Glycol, Carbomer, Triethanolamine, Hydroxypropylcellulose, Fragrance, Benzophenone 2, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Vanilla Planifolia Fruit Extract, Orange 4/CI 15510, Yellow 5/CI 19140

Alcohol Content: 68.27% V/v (with 1%Diethylphthalate)

Available in 3 fragrances:-

Vanilla- Leaves your hands clean, soft, protected and smelling sweet like vanilla!

Peach- Treat your hands to this irresistably, fruity smelling hand gel with the freshness of peaches

Frangipani- Gives your hands the beautiful floral fragrance of frangipani

Warning:- For external use only. Avoid contact with eyes. If contact occurs, rinse with water. Discontinue use if irritation develops n consult a doctor. Keep out of reach of children.

My Opinion:- About a month ago I came across this hand gel and immediately placed an order for it. This is a good substitute for soap in energency situation. I love vanilla ice cream and this hand gel reminds me of ice cream yummmm :P This gel comes in a cute white tube and has an awesome fragrance. It can be carried in the purse easily because its small enough. Its watery and hence very runny therefore gets easily absorbed into the skin. It is a non-sticky gel formula and doesn't make my hands/palms greasy though a mild fragrance lingers on and on for quite sometime.

                    The best part is that this hand gel is anti-bacterial. I am using it for 1 month now and I am nearly done with this tube. I haven't experienced any dryness or itching (it contains alcohol) of my palms/hands regular use rather I should say frequent use. I use it whenever I feel like, it gives my hands a clean and fresh feeling. All claims made by the company are true and I am very happy with this product.

Pros:- Travel friendly, awesome fragrance, affordable, anti bacterial, doesn't dry my hands

Cons:- Contains alcohol, lot of products come out when I open the lid of this tube.

                        I rate this product 4.75 out of 5. I am planning to get the Frangipani fragrance next. This is 1 product that I am in love with right now.

                       I have always discussed the 'dos' for beautiful skin and how to take care of your skin and what's good for your skin. But today I am going to discuss a few dont's for a beautiful skin.

        * Don't be grumpy. Start the day with a smile, look at yourself in the mirror and smile to yourself. Anger, tension, depression, making faces spoils your beauty.

       * Don't sleep with makeup on, you may get pimples, blackheads and your skin will become dull and lifeless. Use a cleanser on your face and neck or simply wash off with a face wash.

       * Don't go after junk food. Avoid cakes, pastries, chips, burgers, spicy food, aerated drinks etc. Eat fresh fruits and veggies daily.

       * Don't imitate others, never buy a cream/lotion or makeup product just because your friend uses it. Consider your skin type and your skin's need of that time. Test the product on yourself and then if it suits you, go ahead and buy it.

       * Avoid over-exposure to sun. Though a little amount of sunlight is good for us, we should avoid over-exposure as it is harmful. Use a good quality sunscreen with high SPF suitable to your skin. Protect eyes with shades and hair with scarf or umbrella.

       * Don't tug or pull your skin. Don't stretch it. Don't squeeze or press blackhead/whiteheads or pimples, you might injure and damage your skin.

       * Avoid short cuts. The first step to a beautiful skin is cleansing. Use a cleanser or face wash twice a day. Then use a mild toner to close pores, freshen and tighten your skin. Finally use a moisturiser suited to your skin type. Keep aside 10-20 mins for yourself daily.

       * Avoid wrong massage. Wrong massaging may cause wrinkles and destroy the build of the skin. Use a good cream/oil as per your choice and facilitate the movements of your hands. The best thing is to massage your face with upward and outward strokes.

      * Don't talk when you have a face pack on. You will get wrinkles and fine lines and also you will loose the elasticity of your skin.

      * Don't wash your face with hot water, not even in the extreme winters. Use tepid water to wash your face or to bathe, not hot or cold as extreme temperature will harm your skin.

                    


























Sit cross legged on the ground or squat on a low stool. Raise your right leg and place it on the opposite thigh. Scoop out a generous quantity of your favorite foot cream and apply on your feet.



*Massage your heel starting beneath your ankle and moving up with circular movements towards the back of your leg.


*Work towards the arch of your foot.


*Massage from tips of your toes to the ankle.


*Exert pressure on the soles of your feet while massaging.


*Rub toes firmly, working from base to the tip of your toe.

*Stroke feet with long movements from toes to ankles.


*Stretch out leg and massage using upward strokes from ankles to knees.


*Move on to thighs and then hip. Repeat the entire process with the other leg.



                   A soothing foot massage along with proper exercise, regular foot-bath and weekly pedicure with prevent all problems of the feet.