How to Make Your Own Glitter Nail Polish

Neon colors for your nails are a huge summer trend. Whether it is yellow, pink or green, neons bring a certain freshness to every look! Glitter is another great trend: with its sparkly effect it can brighten up your mood very fast!

Apply a nail base first for stronger nails. Then spread some glitter on them, so that it can stick. Use a see-through neon nail polish over the glitter for an amazing result.

Now you can enjoy your DIY manicure which will carry you through the breezy summer nights with parties on the beach and beautiful sunrises!

Makeup melt-proof tricks you ought to try

Hot and sweaty season is often frowned upon and is called as the make-up meltdown time of year. But it doesn't have to be. Get your hands on the right tools.

Here are a few tips from Hollywood's make-up artists, reports eonline.com:

Use eye pencil: 

Actress Amy Adams' make-up artist Stephen Sollitto suggests skipping eyeshadow altogether in the summer time. So shun creams, pots and powders. Instead use waterproof pencils and shade in your whole lid.

Find a multi-purpose product: 

Instead of layering onto your complexion, find a power foundation that has built-in SPF and is waterproof, says Sollitto. Actress Jennifer Garner's make-up artist Fiona Stiles says if you must add hydration to your complexion, "skip moisturiser. Just use sunscreen."

Primer for eyes: 

Stiles thinks using a face primer is "an unnecessary step". However, if you do want to use eyeshadow she suggests first swiping on eye primer to prevent creases on the lids.

Go for bronzer: 

Actress Jaimie Alexander's make-up pro Jeffrey Paul says apply self-tanner in areas you want to contour, like under the cheekbones. It soaks into the skin and won't melt or rub off.

What is Kim Kardashian’s stem cell facial all about?

The big Kim Kardashian-Kanye West wedding was in the news recently, and apart from the glitzy venue and outfits, the buzz was also about the pre-wedding preps the bride-to-be underwent, one of them being the stem cell facial, that reportedly cost over $500! But Kim's is not the only one, there has been talk of stem cells in medicinal and beauty therapies. Here's more on this...

What it's about

Skin care contains either plant or human stemcells and the latter are able to produce copies over long a period of time.

Explains cosmetologist Dr Rashmi Shetty, "Blood is pulled out from a person. It is processed with a few ingredients and then centrifuged at a particular speed to get the growth factors. The blood is then injected into the person."

Says cosmetic dermatologist Dr Sadaf Rangooni, "The cells have two key components, which play a role in the growth of new cells and the production of collagen, elastin, etc. When applied to the skin, these help firm wrinkles and slow the development of new lines". Adds dermatologist Dr Apratim Goel, "As we age, there is slowing as well as breakdown of our skin collagen, blood vessels as well as other supporting connective tissues. When stem cells are applied on the skin along with electroporation and ultrasound devices, it reduces cell damage as well as starts new tissue formation. Increased blood supply is a part of the entire rejuvenation process, so it's like a renewal of the skin."

It's risky too

Both the safety as well as efficacy have been questioned and it's essential that the treatment is done under supervision of a skin expert. "The topically applied stem cells are usually derived from plant cell sources and there are not many side effects reported, but most of the safety doubts or questions are with the systemic injectable stem cells and that too of foetal or animal origin. Topically applied stem cells are usually safe. However, cases of allergy in the form of itching and redness has been noted," she warns.

Dr Shetty also has a warning, "Stem cells are being used in beauty treatments but you have to be careful of the source you pick up. You cannot use stem cells or growth factor from an unknown line (stem cells that can grow something else). The simplest way is to derive cells from your own body fluid, but to maintain safety always go to a credible doctor. There is also a lot still happening in this field and the subject

Can it help hair growth?

"I have used these cells on a few patients and they have shown to help with thinning hair and balding. What happens is, the cells are injected into the scalp. It stimulates the hair and even makes individual hair look healthier," adds Dr Shetty.

Stem cell therapy is said to be used for wrinkles, fine lines, dry skin, acne scars, skin lightening and more. But scientists say further research is needed to prove the claim that this can diminish wrinkles and other ageing issues.

When to start

Not before 25, but people can age differently and some may need it only after 40. It's best to judge from the way your skin looks, so don't generalise, she says. 

How often to do this?

Every four to six weeks, which is the skin renewal time frame. And do it just two to three times a year.

Watch out!

Stem cell skin therapies should not be performed on those with infection or inflammatory conditions of the skin. It is not recommended for pregnant or breast feeding women, warns Dr Rangooni.

Eyeliner Tutorial and Tips !

We all know that there are different techniques for putting on eyeliner, some are hard, some are easier, but they all have a very unique and outstanding effect!

In the picture below you see one of the rather easier ways to outline your upped eyelid. You just have to draw the two lines, before filling the empty space between our line and the end of your eyelid. 

 

Personally, when I do my make-up I always have at least one cotton bud by my side, in case I mess up or make the one eye line longer or shorter than the other one. You should use them, too! It is easier and you just have to coat it in water before you try to erase the traces of your mistake.

In the end you fill the uncolored space and you have officially acquired a cat-eye look!

Easy steps To define your eyebrows !!

There are many ways to shade your eyebrows and in the picture below you can see very clearly what the steps are. In the tutorial today you can see step by step how to shade your brows in the most easiest way .

Just grab your eyebrow pencil and a brush, and let’s get started !

What's in your bag this summer?

Much like wardrobes, the contents of a lady's handbag need to be revamped as the summer months set in. From sunscreen, tinted lip gloss to make-up base - your bag must have it all.

Experts from cosmetic brand Lakme have put together a list of must haves in your bag to beat the heat:

Sunscreen: 

Sunscreen is undoubtedly the most important item in your summer bag, especially if you don't plan to spend the entire summer indoors. Toss a bottle into your bag and with that you throw out any worry of being exposed to the sun. Go for SPF 50 that gives your skin optimum protection against harmful ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) rays.

A tinted lip balm or gloss: 

Just like your skin, your lips are vulnerable to the harsh rays of the sun. Keep them healthy by using a lip balm with SPF. This not only protects your lips but also keeps them moisturized. Day or night, you will be able to protect your pout.

Sunglasses: 

Another must-do is to wear a pair of sunglasses. A good pair will protect your eyes from the harmful effects of the UV rays. Plus, by shading yourself from the heat, it will keep you off those headaches you tend to get in the scorching heat. And what's even better is that the right pair of glasses can up your style quotient.

Bottled water: 

It is absolutely essential to stay hydrated in the summer and a reusable water bottle is a must have. You can pick one that has fluid measurements printed on the bottle. This is the simplest way to keep track of how much H2O you are consuming and ensure those important eight cups every day.

Make-up base: 

Go ahead and ditch your elaborate make-up kit! Instead of a compact or a primer, use the Lakme 9to5 Super Sunscreen this summer that acts as a perfect make-up base along with giving sun protection with SPF 50.

Facial wipes: 

After a long, sweaty day in the sun, you will be thankful to have some facial wipes on hand. These provide a quick and easy way to refresh yourself as you transition from day to night. Wipe the slate clean and you'll feel brand new.

Mini deodorant: 

One of the most obvious things you should keep handy is an anti-perspirant deodorant or a nice perfume. Now you do not want to keep your boyfriend away due to your body odour, right? During summer you will tend to perspire more and spraying a deodorant occasionally will only save you from any embarrassment and will keep you relieved.

Sanitizer:

Germs love the heat and sweat that summer brings along. Because bacteria flourish in warm and moist environments, summer is the time that food poisoning and food borne diseases are common. Always use hand sanitizer before you indulge in any snacking.

Face mist: 

Use a face mist to feel fresh in an instant. Make your own - just put some rose water in a spray bottle and you're done! Just spray some on when you're tired.

Stock-up on one of each in your bag and you'll be summer-ready in no time!

How to beat oily skin woes in summer

With the scorching sun and heat of summer, we end up washing our 'shiny' faces so often that does more damage than good. 

According to Rod Anker, creative director of Monsoon Salon and Spa, over-cleansing really dehydrates the skin, signaling the body to produce more oil. 

Actress Sonakshi Sinha, who is a fan of holistic beauty and hence consumes plenty of water, says that she learnt the trick of rubbing ice on her skin from her mother which not only feels good in the heat but also reduces the pores. 

Anker advises that one should get cooling facials as they refresh and cleanse the skin without drying it.

How to grow out a pixie cut

You've decided to switch from your cute little pixie cut to a longer hairstyle. Enter the ugly in-between phase of growing it out. It's a challenge to look presentable during this awkward phase, when your hair gets wilder by the day. Here's what to do.

Trim and trim again

Keep trimming your hair as it grows out. By chopping the ends, you will prevent split ends from moving up the length of your locks, and save the strands from breaking.

Feed your hair

Nourish your hair from within by consuming plenty of water, fresh fruit and vegetables. Pamper your locks with a DIY treatment. For instance, you could massage coconut milk — known to be rich in vitamins — into your scalp before shampooing for a few weeks.

Try other hairstyles

As your hair grows out, try other hairstyles that will flatter your face and short mane — a choppy bob or beach waves, for instance.

Get the wet look

The wet-hair look will prevent frizz from marring your outings. To get it right, dry your hair halfway after shampooing. Apply wet-look gel and scrunch it up. Brush with a wide-toothed comb and dry lightly.

Anti-acne treatment at home

Acne, pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads appear usually on oily skin due to clogged skin pores.

Though it's impossible to control all the factors that cause acne breakouts, you can take measures to reduce the problem.

Many dermatologists will ask you to go for antibiotics or creams. However, there are a number of all-natural homemade masks that you can apply to get rid of or reduce the breakouts.

Baking Soda: 

It is considered the best home remedy for acne as it sooths itching and inflamation around zits. It also removes blackheads and whiteheads.

Mix one part of baking soda and two parts of water (preferably warm), and leave this mixture on your face for about 10 minutes. You may add some honey to the mix as it moisturizes the skin. After rinsing your face, if your face feels dry, apply an oil-free moisturizer.

Tea tree oil: 

It is an excellent antiseptic and anti-microbial, thus it is great for the skin.

Make a face mask by mixing two tablespoons of distilled water, one tablespoon each of baking soda and honey, and five to six drops of tea tree oil.

Apply this mask once a day in case you have a severe acne problem.

Coriander-mint juice: 

May sound like a summer cooler, but a teaspoon of coriander or mint juice is very good for your skin.

Add a pinch of turmeric to it and it becomes even more effective in removing pimples and blackheads. Apply mixture on your face every night before retiring to bed.

Honey and cinnamon: 

Make a paste of honey and cinnamon powder and apply it on the pimples before sleeping. Wash it next morning with warm water.

Bruise cabbage leaves: 

Just mash 'em up and rub them on the offending area. Leave the juice on for at least 30 minutes or more and rinse off. Apply an astringent and see the difference in a few days.

Salt and lemon juice: 

Lemon has a drying effect, in case you need something even dryer, then mix half teaspoon salt in two teaspoon lemon juice, rub on the zit and leave on for 20 to 30 minutes. Make sure you don't step out after applying it as lemon juice has a bleaching effect and can cause sensitivity to the sun.

How to fix split ends !

There are several things you can do to prevent your hair from splitting.

After you apply conditioner in the shower, slowly run a wide-toothed comb through hair until all the tangles are out.

Get a haircut every six to eight weeks. It will remove split ends and keep your hair healthy and strong.

Never over-brush. A hundred brushstrokes is not necessary, and may lead to more splits than anything else.

Get pearly whites the easy way

A warm smile can work wonders when meeting someone new, but if what you flash is unhealthy yellow teeth, the effect is instantly diminished.

Professional ways to whiten teeth can prove to be expensive, but don't lose heart. There are some simple, yet effective, ways to ensure that the next time you smile, you show off pearly whites instead.

Dental hygiene: 

Keeping your dental hygiene in check is vital. Brush your teeth twice a day and floss every day. This will keep your teeth healthy and white by getting rid of build-up.

Watch what you drink: 

Beverages such as coffee, tea and dark fizzy drinks can all stain your teeth. While it may not be possible to completely eliminate them from your diet, limit their intake. Remember, if it can stain your t-shirt, it can stain your teeth.

Rinse after you eat: 

It is not possible to brush after each meal, but you must rinse your mouth with water after you eat. Colourful fruits and vegetables — such as beetroot and mangoes — can stain your teeth, but this can be prevented by simply rinsing your mouth after consuming them.

Stub it out: 

We all know that smoking is bad for health, but it also gives you bad breath and makes your teeth appear unsightly. Nicotine and tar in cigarettes stain teeth and smoking reduces the amount of saliva in the mouth, which naturally cleans teeth.

Use the power of deception: 

this one's for the ladies. Wearing the right lip colour can give the illusion of white teeth. Pick colours with blue undertones — such as rich reds, berry colours, pinks with a cool tint or nude colors — since they counteract against yellow shades. Stay away from bright orange or reds with warm undertones as they accentuate stains.

Essential oils for summer

Essential oils are great for summers, Apart from soothing the skin, they even work as natural insect repellents, while keeping the skin healthy and moisturized. Here, we list a few...

Rose oil: 

Rose Oil is one of the best essential oil for skin. It moisturizes and cleanses the skin pores. Regular message even reduces wrinkles and fine lines.

Chamomile oil: 

It is good for sensitive skin and the regular use calms your skin.

Tea tree oil: It is the best for acne prone skin. Tea Tree oil has antibacterial, antifungal and is a natural antiseptic.

Lemongrass: 

It works as an all-purpose insect repellent, but it can cause skin irritation to those with sensitive skin.

Lavender oil: 

It is one of the best oils for summer as it is treats sunburn. Spray lavender mist directly onto the skin or put a few drops in luke warm water and soak for 10 minutes.

Combat dark circles naturally

Are dark circles bothering you? Here are some simple ways to deal with them.

Go the milky way

Grand mom's recipes always included milk because it lightens skin. Using cold unboiled milk on your face and over your eye-lids can help brighten skin there.

Let aloe work its magic

Aloe Vera can help your under-eye skin look healthier. Use it on clean skin before your retire for the night. Pick organic restorative gels and creams with aloe vera.

Say yes to antioxidants

Have nuts, berries, beans, fresh leafy colorful vegetables and fruits. Antioxidants will make your skin healthy and combat dark circles.

Wear Sunglasses

Harmful sun rays can damage and irritate sensitive under-eye skin. Wear sunnies.

5 steps to a perfect holiday tan

There are lots of reasons why people look forward to their holidays in the sun as this is the time to achieve that perfect golden tan. Exfoliating body with a loofah and using a light tanning lotion a week before holidays can do wonders.

To avoid looking like a lobster on the return flight,femalefirst.co.uk has compiled its top tips for developing a healthy glow as this summer.

- Preparation is key: 

A sun-tanning regime doesn't just start the moment you step off the plane. Make sure you exfoliate your body with a loofah or body scrub to remove dead skin cell. Apply moisturiser all over, paying special attention to dry areas such as elbows and knees. Repeat daily until it's time to set off for the airport.

- Get a base: 

Get a base level of tan before you even arrive at the beach. This way, you will avoid those blinding white legs the first time you don your bikini and it gives you a bit more breathing room to build your tan slowly and safely. Use a light tanning lotion or a moisturiser with fake tan in it for a week or so before you go to give your skin a nice glow.

- Stay safe in the sun: 

Protecting your skin against the sun is essential, whether you intend to tan or not. Sunblock will provide full protection and sunscreen or sun cream will blocks harmful UVA and UVB rays, and will allow you to develop a tan over the course of a few days. Ensure you protect your skin and don't skimp on skin safety - apply sun cream generously 15 minutes before you go out in the sun or before you take a dip in the sea and keep applying it throughout the day.

- Look after your skin: 

Enthusiastic sun-seekers often make the mistake of staying out in the sun all day, every day, and doing little to look after their skin afterwards. Taking a cool shower when you've been out in the heat can do wonders for re-balancing your skin's temperature. Invest in a special after-sun product that will cool the skin after a day in the glare of the sun.

- Fake it: 

If all else fails, you can always fake it. There are countless tanning products out there nowadays, from tanning mousse to spray bottles. If you're not confident about applying an all-over tanning lotion yourself, you can get a friend to help with those awkward-to-reach areas.

How to choose an organic shampoo

Organic shampoos and conditioners have their share of benefits as compared to the chemical-based shampoos. However, there are organic shampoos that might not suit your hair texture. Here are a few things that one should keep in mind before opting for natural shampoos...

Check if the shampoo is organic

Some shampoos might just claim that they are made out of natural ingredients. But five out of 10 ingredients will actually be chemical-based, that might harm your hair. It is advisable to research in advance than pick a shampoo without knowing its pros and cons.

Look out for these ingredients

When choosing an organic shampoo look out for ingredients like olive oil, cocount oil, organic tea tree, organic shea butter and aloe vera, among others. 

Consult the doctor before use

Don't buy organic shampoos just because the label says so. There are different varieties in organic shampoos for different hair textures like oily or dry hair. It is best to consult the doctor before use.