10 Things to do for Your Skin Before Your Wedding
We get a lot of questions about what sort of preparation brides can do for their skin before the wedding. This infographic {courtesy of Simply Bridal} points out 10 important things that you should do to get, and keep, your skin in tiptop shape for the wedding.
The Pros and Cons of Different Self Tanner Formulas
People love that “glow” and the way their skin looks in the summer, and there is a healthy way to get that look without exposing yourself to harmful UVA and UVB rays. Self tanners can seem scary if you have never tried them before – there are so many to choose from! Here is a breakdown of a few formulas on the market and their pros and cons.
Creams and Gels
Creams and gels generally take longer to dry than other formulas. This can be a plus for anyone trying self tanning for the first time because it allows for more time to rub in the product. The key to applying creams and gels is to exfoliate well beforehand. If you are inexperienced with applying self tanner pick a cream or a gel that gives a gradual tan. Once you get more experience you can buy a quicker developing formula.
Sprays
Sprays can give a great, even tan – but the spray formulas tend to dry really quickly. Another drawback is that it is really difficult to spray your own body evenly (and to get everywhere.) If you have someone to help you out, you can try a spray – but we still suggest to start with a cream until you feel comfortable.
Foams
Foams are a sort of cream and spray hybrid with a very unique texture. Many people are drawn to this formula because the foam is visual, which makes it easier to apply. Foams dry quicker than creams and gels, but because it is easier to apply, for people with a little more experience this isn’t a problem.
Towlettes
Towlettes are a great products for touch-ups. Due to the fact they tend to have less product per towlette and can dry out quickly they are hard to apply your whole tan with a towlette. Also, if it is a clear formula, sometimes it is hard to tell where you have already applied which could lead to over-application in certain areas and would prevent an even, natural-looking tan.
What products or formulas do you love – let us know via Facebook, Twitter or the comments box below!
5 Lesser-Known Essential Oils and What they can do for You!
It is great to have some knowledge of essential oils and what they can do in your health and beauty routine. In the post we list some interesting properties and uses for 5 lesser-known essential oils.
Cedarwood Atlas is an oil that is extracted from cedarwood shavings and has a sweet and woody aroma. This oil is a antiseptic, astringent and a natural sedative. This is a great oil to treat fungal infections, dandruff, insect bites and stings. (This oil should not be used if you are pregnant.)
Clary Sage has a fruity and flowery aroma and is a natural antidepressant, sedative and has anti-inflammatory properties. This oil is often used to reduce high blood pressure and ease depression, nervous tension and stress.
Frankincense oil is a warm and piney-smelling oil that is used as an astringent, antiseptic and sedative. This oil can help treat ulcers, asthma and bronchitis.
Mandarin oil is a sweet and citrusy-smelling oil that is a digestive, laxative and sedative. It is a great oil for hiccups and coughs. It can also be used to help prevent stretch marks.
Neroli oil is an antidepressant, antiseptic and an aphrodisiac. It has a sweet and floral scent and is an excellent remedy for stress, skin problems and heart palpitations.
*These oils (alone) should not be directly applied to the skin. Instead, mix a few drops of the essential oil in a carrier oil such as olive oil, jojoba oil or almond oil. Always test a small amount of the mixture on the inside of your wrist to make sure that your skin won’t react.
Would you like to know the properties and uses of more essential oils? Just let us know in the comments box below and we can do a series of posts to let you know about other great essential oils and how you can use them in your health or beauty routine.