Grand opening

                         Hello Beautiful Salon 

  A family friendly place..

 Creating beauty for the times in your life!



Hello Beautiful Salon in Lanexa Virginia is now officially opened!  The Grand opening will be Sat Nov 5th,  Come register to win prizes and have some refreshments!!  for more info call 804-557-3551

15520 Pocahontas Trail

See you soon!

Hello Beautiful Salon

We have been working on the new Salon now for over a week and it is really coming along.! We will have before and after pics to post after it is all done.  It's going to be different not working from my little sudio at home all the time, but at the same it is so exciting!  I will keep you posted.

The Bangs Are In!

I would say that for over a year now I have been convincing my clients to cut a fringe on their forehead, and now it is definitely a fashion statement!  So if you have not already jumped on the "Bang" wagon,  now is the time to try some flirty ,fringy bangs!

It's official: Fringe is more fabulous than ever! “Bangs have made a huge comeback in Hollywood,” declares celebrity hairstylist David Babaii, who created bangs for both Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman at this season's award shows. “No matter if you wear your hair down or up, bangs add a style statement of their own.”
Babaii, who also styled Emma Stone for this month’s Glamour, says anyone can pull off a bang, provided the cut suits them. “They can be short, rounded or straight bangs so they fit their face shape.” He recommends having clients try on a wig so they can see what their bangs will look like before the cut—which is exactly what he does with his superstar clientele.

More styling suggestions from Babaii:
• Let bangs grow a bit longer to sweep to one side and clip with a hair accessory
• Create piecey bangs by using a paste to create and define separations
• Use a flat iron and something like Pequi Oil to create a shiny dramatically straight bang
• Texturize bangs to give them a different look
• Use a large round brush to bump the ends under to soften the line
Olivia Wilde's fringe is long, wispy and a bit sexy. It camouflages a high forehead while setting off her eyes.

Wedding Day I "Doo's"

 

Here is a little video that I put together and actually had fun doing it.  In my opinion hair and makeup are the icing on the cake.  Every Bride is different in what they are comfortable in.  I work around their idea and use it to create a look for them that is both flattering and unique to their personality. In many cases I used hair pieces to make the hair do what I want it to do.  Hair too short?  Add some semi permanent  hair extensions and see you  go from really nice to ravishing.  I love to create  bridals look for  weddings and I hope this video gives you the little twinge in your heart that give me.   Need an on location stylist for your wedding call me!  757-243-7372

Important Info

Thought some of my readers in the Virginia Area might need this info.
The Deck Master Mike McCauley


 Downed Tree Removal and Home Repairs from Hurricane Irene  call Mike@ 757-634-7916

30 Years Experience  in all areas of  Home and Yard work.

Just for fun.. I put together this short  video of some great short to mid legnth cuts to some great mucic that reminded me of my younger years when I was a teenager.  Played it for my daughter and she loved the music too.. guess the Beach Boys are forever young!  Enjoy

Once upon a time I tried to be a Blonde!

Hair color really made a difference for me!  I once was under the belief that blondes had more fun.  I was determined to  be one fun blonde!    But to my dismay  I soon realized , my washing machine still worked the same way and dinner dishes still piled up  and my husband still left his shavings in the sink. Oh my what is a girl to do.? I went to my stylist at The Beautiful Gate Salon in Williamsburg and she waved her magic comb, brush, color bowl and her vast years of expertice and soon came up with my new look!  I love it, my family loves it and I am a fun person no matter what hair color I have.  She has my vote as a true color artist  ..Chon



Below is a before and after picture of Chon..

To every skin tone there is a season. Which one are you?

Choose Colors to Flatter Your Skin Tone

An important part of choosing the right colors for your wardrobe is to pick the ones that flatter your skin tone. Below are tips on what colors to choose and which ones to stay away from.

 

1. Determine Your Skin Tone

   • 1
     Decide which season most accurately describes your complexion. People - and skin tones - can be divided into "seasons," depending on their skin tone.
   • 2
     "Winter" complexions have blue or pink undertones. Skin can be pale white, yellowish-olive, or dark. Winter people are generally brunettes, with deeply colored eyes. Many Asians and African Americans fall into this category.
   • 3
     "Summer" complexions, like winter complexions, have blue or pink undertones. Skin is pale and pink. Summers are often natural blondes or brunettes with pale eyes.
   • 4
     "Autumn": Autumn complexions have golden undertones. Many redheads and brunettes with golden brown eyes fall into this category.
   • 5
     "Spring": Spring complexions have golden undertones and are usually creamy white or peach. Spring people generally have straw-colored or strawberry red hair, freckles, rosy cheeks, and blue or green eyes.

   Choose Clothes to Flatter Your Skin Tone

   • 1
     "Winter": Winters should wear colors that are sharp, stark and clear. White, black, navy blue, red and shocking pink all go well with winter complexions. For lighter colors, wear icy tones rather than pastels. Avoid subdued tones like beige, orange and gold.
   • 2
     "Summer": Summers should choose pastels and soft neutrals with rose and blue undertones. Lavender, plum, rose-brown and soft blue suit summers well while black and orange do not.
   • 3
     "Autumn": Autumns should select colors with golden undertones, like camel, beige, orange, gold and dark brown. Avoid colors with blue tones, like navy.
   • 4
     "Spring": Springs can wear warm colors like camel, peach, golden yellow and golden brown. Avoid dark, dull colors.

Next time I will talk about your Hair color for your skin tone.. stay tuned.

Pretty new procuct for us baby boomers!

Anti-Aging Hair Products

 Good Housekeeping mag tested 73 products on 579 volunteers, took more than 2,700 lab measurements, and tallied 1,055 questionnaires to find 17 top performers that really deliver on their promise of shinier, fuller, younger-looking hair.

 

 

 

                       

Best Deep Conditioners: Silver Winner

Silver Winner: Sliding in at number two, Redken Time Reset Youth Revitalizer ($17, salons) also was the second-best bargain among anti-aging deep conditioners, which were a pricey group. "My hair looked and felt amazing after using this," said a panelist. The lab gave it points for its performance in the Instron test (see above). Affirming that victory, consumers classified Redken as a great detangler. Bonus: Testers found both Redken and Age Beautiful easiest to use, thanks to the squeeze-tube packaging that set them apart from the competition's tubs and jars. "I like that you can leave it upside down to eventually use all of the product," said a volunteer of the Redken.

Tip: Intense conditioning can do wonders for colored, curly, coarse, thick, or damaged hair. If your locks are thin, apply it only from mid-shaft to ends to avoid weighing down fine strands.

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TIME FOR A HAIRCOLOR CHANGE.. BECAUSE THE WAY WE VIEW COLOR IS CHANGING TOO!

TIME FOR A HAIRCOLOR CHANGE

1. Has your haircolor lost its shine?
A simple color gloss treatment, like Redken's Shades EQ, can restore shine brilliantly, not to mention leave hair soft and silky feeling.

2. Are you no longer getting compliments on your color?
Your stylist can add highlights or lowlights to restore dimension.

"One reason this happens is when haircolor and skin-tone become too close--this can cause haircolor to seem faded and skin to appear washed-out." -- Redken Celebrity Colorist Tracey Cunningham

3. When is the last time you tried anything new?
Instead of asking for the same shade over and over, get inspired to try a new color! Check out websites like Redken.com for ideas and if you see someone with amazing haircolor, don't hesitate to ask, "Who does your color?"

4. Are you having trouble keeping up with re-touches?
Try Redken's NEW Illumination technique, a fresh take on the ombre haircolor trend that's all the rage on the red carpet. Color gradually transitions from darker at the roots to lighter at the ends, for a look that's flattering and low maintenance.

5. Do you wear your hair in a ponytail 24/7?
While a constant ponytail is a sign you need a different haircut, it's also a sign you could use a new color. A new hue will inspire you to wear your hair down and show off your great new color!

T.G.I.S

Aw.. what a beautiful sound Sunday has.  I woke  this morning still busy in my mind from the week that passed and when I realized it was Sunday I was over joyed!  Oh the Lord really knew what He was doing when he gave us Sunday.  A time to rest, recooperate and realize all that we have to enjoy and be blessed with.  How you spend your Sunday will determine how the rest of your week will go.  So what are your plans for today?  If you feel like you have been in a rut then today is the day to do something about it!


Enjoy your Sunday
Attend a church service with your neighbor
Make a big breakfast for your family
Go for a long walk and really look at the flowers
Sidewalk chalk with OR with out your kids
Call an old friend you have not spoken to in 10 yearshand
Take a deep breath of fresh air
Hold your spouses hand
 Rub your kids feet
Do something you have never done but always wanted to
Read a Shakepearan Play
Paint a picture
Plan your Thanksgiving menu
Watch an old home movie
Love on your parents and grandparents
Appreciate what is in your refrigator and be creative with it
Pick some fresh flowers and put them in your bathroom
You tube a educacional video and learn something new
Day dream and enjoy it
Plan your week ahead
Make this Sunday count for you we will never pass this way again.

Have a beautiful Day.. and Be Blessed.. Lorraine
　
　
　
　

What is going on with my eyebrows?

 

Anti-Aging Care For Your Eyebrows

Lately it has been brought to my attention that there is a concern about eyebrow loss.  Did you know that it is perfectly natural for our eyebrows to change with age?  Makes perfect sense, along with everything else, our eyebrows age. 

(Why is it that my eyebrows have gotten thinner while my husband goes to bed at night with perfectly normal eyebrows and wakes up with long ones that seem to grow overnight?)

Here is a little bit about eyebrows..Enjoy!

As one of the most important face framing features, our eyebrows are not immune to the aging process. Just like the hair on our head, our eyebrows can fall prey to pesky aging problems.
Graying eyebrows, thinning eyebrows and even balding of the brows can all happen as we grow older. Luckily, there are a few ways to combat the signs of aging eyebrows, even if you can’t prevent them from happening all together.

Eyebrow-tinting is a great way to bring the color back to dull brows. Brows can turn gray and even lose their luster and become very dull. Eyebrow tinting can safely add color back to your brows to cover over gray areas.  The Beautiful gate Salon performs eyebrow-tinting services at a very affordable price. Tinting can cost as little as $30.00.  Please do not tint your eyebrows with hair color..!!  I know salons do sometimes do this but truly it is against the code of cosmetology to tint your eyebrows with it.

Eyebrow shadow is a great quick fix for thinning eyebrows. I prefer eyebrow shadow versus pencil because it gives a softer, more natural effect. Pick a shade that closest matches your natural eyebrow color. Use the shading brush that is usually included with eyebrow shading kit to gently fill in sparse areas.

For a more permanent solution to thinning eyebrows, permanent makeup is becoming more widespread. Permanent makeup is essentially a tattoo.   The advantages of permanent eyebrow makeup are that it is permanent, you can swim , work out etc. and it will stay in place.  Disadvantages in my opinion is that it does not always look natural, and  needs to be touched up over time.  
Be very sure when you decide this that :
1. the  Artist is licenced
2. you have checked out her/his references and place of business
3. that you make good communication so that there are no misunderstandings. 

Yes Virginia,, there is a Redken solution

TRANSFORM YOUR HAIR:
EXPERIENCE A REDKEN CHEMISTRY HAIR TREATMENT
An exclusive, professional in-salon service, Redken Chemistry offers intense, customized treatments for whatever your hair needs – whether it’s moisture, color protection, strength, softness, control, or a combination of these benefits! Each treatment also has a corresponding take-home regimen so you can maintain the incredible results after you leave the salon.

Who is Redken Chemistry for?

A deep conditioning treatment such as Redken Chemistry is great for distressed hair. Distressed hair is weakend hair that has been physically changed in some way. There are two key types of hair distress:

• CHEMICAL DISTRESS: caused by overuse of chemical services such as haircolor, lightening, perming or straightening
• MECHANICAL DISTRESS: caused by normal wear and tear from blow-drying, curling and flat irons, and every day brushing

HOW DOES IT WORK? Redken Chemistry offers six “shots” that can be blended for truly personalized solutions: Extreme Shot Phase for distressed hair Color Extend Shot Phase for color-treated hair Clear Moisture Shot Phase for normal/dry hair All Soft Shot Phase for dry/brittle hair Smooth Down Shot Phasee for very dry/unruly hair Real Control Shot Phase for dense/dry/sensitized hair Time Reset Filler Shot Phase for porous, age-weakened hair For the month of August when you receive your color service , your chemistry service is my gift to you!

Call me at 757-243-7372  today about scheduling your customized Redken Chemistry service.

---

Have a shot on me!

   When you come in  for your hair color service during the month of August, you will receive  a custom chemical shot blended totally for your hair as my gift to you a $20.00 value!   Here is a little more about  what it is and what it can do for your hair!  Call soon 757-243-7372 and make your appointment~

Redken Chemistry System is a professional use treatment collection that adds shine and strength, seals the hair cuticle, and adds a brilliant gloss that lasts for at least three weeks! The Chemistry System is an "inside-out approach" to creating healthy, shiny hair. These professional-use only treatments offer intense, customized benefits for individual hair needs. In about 5 minutes, you can improve the quality of your hair. These advanced formula treatments provide immediate results after just one treatment.

Chemistry System includes six shots that can be blended for truly customized solutions:

Strength Shot for distressed hair

Protect Shot for color-treated hair

Soft Shot for dry/brittle hair

Anti-Frizz Shot for very dry/unruly hair

Real Control Shot for dense/dry/sensitized hair

Dandruff Control Shot for dry/flaky scalp

OOPS..Blonde hair gone green!

Some of my clients have been in to see me with the ever dreaded question..Do you think my hair is turning green?  Sometimes yes is the ever dreaded answer and I do have some salon solutions for them up my sleeve.  But an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.  So here are some of my tips for protecting your hair against the attack of the silent green monster as well as a little interesting facts about pool water.

Question: Why Does the Pool Turn Blonde Hair Green?

Answer: It isn't the chlorine that turns blonde hair green. Oxidized metals in the water bind to the protein in the hair shaft and deposit their color. The metal that produces the green tint is copper, which is most commonly found in algicides, though it naturally occurs in some water. The bleach that is added to a pool may be responsible for oxidizing the metal, but it's not the cause of the color.
 Solution:If your hair turns green, you can remove the discoloration by using a shampoo that chelates the metal. One very good one is Paul Mitchell's shampoo# 3.   I  you can not get it out  there are some salon treatments that can remove it, so ask your stylist for her expert advice.

To some extent, you can prevent copper from binding to the hair by sealing the hair cuticle with a conditioner before swimming. Wet hair, apply conditioner generously, and leave it in the hair.

Lastly never let pool water dry in your hair.  Fill a spray bottle with 1 teaspoon baking soda  8 ounces of water and  2 ounces of conditioner and spray it in your hair .  The baking soda will act as a chelater, the conditioner will fill in the cuticle and the water acts as a base.

 

• 

The Beauty of the Natural Nail vs Nail Enhancers

I am getting a lot a questions lately on how to transition from acrylic nails to natural nails.  Woman are beginning to realize that natural nails are very sexy and beautiful also.  I will tell you as a reformed user of nail prosthetic that it will not happen over night.  Depending on how long you have been an abuser of and have been chemically dependant on the acrylic stuff will certainly determine how your rehab goes.  Time and consistency will give you great results.  Here are some tips from the Mayo clinic and some of my own edits for your nails.  Enjoy.. any other question please write me.!

Nail care tips

No nail care product alone can give you healthy nails. But following these simple guidelines can help you keep your nails looking their best:

• Don't abuse your nails. To prevent nail damage, don't use your fingernails as tools to pick, poke or pry things.
• Don't bite your nails or pick at your cuticles. These habits can damage the nail bed. Even a minor cut alongside your nail can allow bacteria or fungi to enter and cause an infection (paronychia).
• Keep your nails dry and clean. This prevents bacteria, fungi or other organisms from growing under the nail. Clean under the nails regularly and thoroughly dry your hands and feet after bathing. Wear rubber gloves when using soap and water for prolonged periods.
• Trim nails and file nails regularly. Trim nails straight across and file down thickened areas. Use a sharp manicure scissors or clippers and an emery board to smooth nail edges. Trimming and filing are easier and safer if done just after bathing or soaking the nails.
• Never pull off hangnails — doing so almost always results in ripping living tissue. Instead clip off hangnails, leaving a slight angle outward.
• Moisturize your nails frequently. Nails need moisture just like your skin does. Rub lotion into your nails when moisturizing your hands. Be sure to apply a moisturizer after removing fingernail polish.
• Watch for problems. If you have a nail problem that doesn't seem to go away on its own or is associated with other signs and symptoms, make an appointment with your doctor to get it checked out.

  Special considerations: Manicures and weak nails

  If you rely on manicures to make your nails look good, keep a few things in mind.   Check to be sure that your nail technician properly sterilizes all tools used during your manicure. Using unsterilized tools may transmit yeast or bacterial infections.  You may also purchase your own tools and bring them with you on your visit to your nail salon.  (I bring my own nail polish also)
  Weak or brittle fingernails can be a challenge to toughen up. The following tips can help you protect them, making your nails less likely to split or break.
  
  • Keep your nails short, square shaped and slightly rounded on top. Trim brittle nails after a bath or a 15-minute hand soak in bath oil. Then apply a moisturizer.
  • Moisturize your nails and cuticles several times a day and after your nails have been in water. Also, apply moisturizer at bedtime and cover your hands with cotton gloves.
  • Apply a nail hardener, but avoid products containing toluene sulfonamide or formaldehyde. These chemicals can cause redness or irritate the skin. (Nail Tek is a great strengthener)
  • Apply nail polish. A thin coat of nail polish may help keep moisture in the nail. Remove and reapply the nail polish after a week.
  • Don't use nail polish remover more than once a week. When you do need a remover, avoid those that use acetone, which dries nails.
  • Take a biotin supplement. Taking 2.5 milligrams of biotin daily may increase the thickness of nails.

Hope you found this article helpful!

Pictures from the Salon Makeover

It was a lot of work, but it sure is fun to work from here now that it is done.  I feel more creative now~ Smile

Sneek preview of my salon makeover

Its not finished yet.. still have some painting and finishing to do. I am so excited. The pictures on the left side were the before. I will be sure to post when it is compleated.. I am loving this salon!

Ready for High School with a new updated look for this young teen.

Amber wanted a more updated look to her long locks as the new school year is steadily approaching. Summer sun and water had bleached out her hair not to mention the stress it put on her ends. A little magic from Redken color creme and some shades EQ to add to her shine and punch up her color. This teen is ready to roll~

Summer Heat getting you bored?

This heat wave we have been enduring has been no fun.  I have decided to start to make some gifts for this  up coming holiday season.  ( Its never too early to start!)  You can make these in bulk and then find some pretty jars to put them in.  Mason jars will also work very well. 

Sea salt is rich in natural minerals and regularly exfoliating your skin with salt scrubs is a pampering treat that can renew and condition your skin. Making your own homemade scrubs couldn’t be easier and the supplies are very basic. Here are a handful of different recipes to try, feel free to adjust amounts and try different essential oils.

Homemade Sea Salt Scrub Recipes

Just A Few Simple Ingredients Are Needed For Homemade Salt Scrubs

Exfoliating Salt Body Scrub
1/2 cup fine sea salt
1/4 cup oatmeal (ground, uncooked)
1/4 cup flaxseed oil
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
8 drops geranium oil

You can also use grape seed oil in place of the olive oil. if you feel olive oil is too heavy.

• Mix ingredients then massage over your body to exfoliate skin, it’s best to do this in the tub after a bath or shower.

Lavender Sea Salt Scrub
1/4 cup fine sea salt
1/4 cup olive oil
3 to 5 drops lavender essential oil

• Mix ingredients together then use to exfoliate body. Add a bit of water or liquid soap as you scrub.

Favorite Scent Sea Salt Body Scrub
3 cups fine sea salt
3/4 cup olive oil
3/4 cup sweet almond oil
your choice of essential oils

• Mix ingredients together then store in a sealed glass jar. Use to exfoliate and scrub body after showering.

Peppermint Salt Foot Scrub
1 1/2 cups fine sea salt
1/3 cup olive oil
3 drops peppermint essential oil

• Exfoliate your soles and heels with this mixture after a bath or foot soak.

Tips

• Mix and store ingredients in glass bowls and jars to prevent reactions with other materials.
• For something different, try adding a bit of gentle liquid soap to your homemade scrubs before using.
• Use a loofah or bristle brush when applying the salt scrub, will give you a nice massage while exfoliating.
• Regular sea salts will work with these recipes but some believe that the Dead Sea salts are the most therapeutic, helps relieve pain from arthritis and achieves the “salt glow” to your skin

taken from tipnut.com

Great Haircolor to get you hired!

"Great haircolor is essential no matter what your job is." — Redken Celebrity Colorist Tracey Cunningham

Check out these tips for getting haircolor that says "hire me"—and make sure to discuss your haircolor needs with your stylist during consultation!

A polished look is essential—when hair shines, your whole look instantly seems more put-together. For an easy way to boost shine, ask your stylist for a Shades EQ gloss from Redken. Choose from a Crystal Clear "topcoat" or a wash of sheer, shiny color.

COLOR CARE TIP: Color Extend Shampoo and Conditioner made with cranberry oil and ceramides keep colored hair healthy and full of shine. Use a few pumps of Smooth Down Heat Glide on damp hair before heat styling to make sure hair looks polished for work.

 

 

If You have more flexibility to express yourself!

Ask your stylist for haircolor that's customized to reflect your unique style and personality. Try "peek-a-boo" highlights for a bold pop of color, or ask for one of Redken's runway-inspired shades for a look that's fresh from Fashion Week.

COLOR CARE TIP: Keep blonde hair looking fresh with a weekly Blonde Glam Perfect Platinum treatment. Condition with Extreme Strength Builder to build strength and add luster.

 

 

If you need a look that's low-maintenance...

Our new Illumination technique is an updated take on the ombre haircolor trend seen on the red carpet. Color gradually transitions from darker at the roots to lighter at the ends, for a low-maintenance look that grows out gorgeously.

COLOR CARE TIP: For intense shine, smooth strands with Nature's Rescue Refining Sea Polish. Spray with Extreme Anti-Snap to tame unruly split ends and protect hair while heat styling.

Visit me your Redken stylist for exceptional haircolor results!

Cutie and the Beauty

On June 28th my daughter Erin had her third child a little girl named Jovie Mae. On July 12 my daughter in law Heather had her first son and named him Parker John. Babies and Mommies are all doing well. I feel so blessed to have 5 beautiful grandchildren!

Pregnancy and skin care.

It’s not a surprise that pregnancy changes a lot about your body, but many women simply don’t think about how their skin care and make up routines may change in pregnancy. Since the hormones that effect the body also change the complexion, you should consider reviving your make up as you progress through pregnancy.
A bit of make up might help you feel better about your appearance, even if you only wear a bit of make up. Remember that make up doesn’t have to be the full body deal, just a bit here and there to help you hide certain areas and enhance others.
Your make up routine should be something simple. In the first trimester, you’re likely to feel very tired and cranky. Having to roll out of bed for a fifteen minute make up work out is probably not high on your list. If you’re used to wearing make up, going without is likely to also leave you looking as green as you’re feeling in your co-worker’s eyes. So try to bring it down to basics. Consider doing simply your eyes, cheeks and lips quickly, leaving off the foundation.
If you find that the glow of pregnancy is only radiating blotchy skin, or chloasma (the mask of pregnancy), you can alter that with make up. A nice foundation or concealer can help to hide the uneven tones and blotchiness. Remember not to use foundation over concealer as they tend to cancel one another out.
If you’re experiencing acne or oily skin from pregnancy, you may want to switch tactics when it comes to make up. You may find that your tried and true essentials simply aren’t cutting it. Consider looking for make up with oil control that is acne friendly.
If you find that your skin is dry, even on your face, consider a nice moisturizer. To combine steps, you may want to try to find a moisturizer that is also a sunscreen. You can also find lip sticks that do double duty as well.
Pregnancy is probably not the time to jump off the deep end. Resist the urge to go for a totally different look. You have enough changes going on in your life and don’t need to figure out what you were thinking when you walked into the hair salon and ordered them to take the hair off into a more “mommy friendly” do.
When selecting make up be sure that it is something that you can tolerate. Your skin may be more sensitive during pregnancy. You should also watch out for certain chemicals in make up because your skin absorbs chemicals from everything. So avoid products with harsh chemicals, including those with mercury and vitamin A and its derivatives as these can cause birth defects. Many moms also like to avoid paraben and petroleum.

One more thing.. too tired to wash your face before bed.?  Keep a package of face wash towelettes next to your bed and your bottle of moisturizer. Give your self a once over before sleep.. and then a shot of moisturizer , a little bit of care is way better than not at all.  Then get a great night sleep!

Select Summer Foods For Scrumptous Summer Skin

Summer is here and most of you would be planning on tanning your skin to give it more glow. However, it is famously known that sun exposure causes risks of skin cancer, and not to mention pre-mature aging.  That’s why there are safer ways to giver your skin a glow.  There are many self face tanners on the market that work well.  My favorite Faces by Fake Bake.

Water is known as a complexion booster because it flushes toxins from the skin cells to give that glowing colour on your skin. Add some fruits and vegetables to that water and have a better skin.

Here are five fruits and veggies that not only will give you a better complexion but will also control your diet. Make them a part of your eating routine and see what difference they make on your skin.

1. Berries

Berries: Blueberries, black currants, blackberries, raspberries, cranberries and strawberries help the body produce collagen, responsible for giving skin that supple and smooth look. “Berries, especially blueberries, are loaded with antioxidant compounds that are very effective in neutralizing damaging free radicals,” said Jackson. “Free radicals are generated in the skin by excessive UV exposure and lead to skin cell damage, premature skin aging.”

2. Carrots

It’s no secret that carrots improve vision, but less known is that carrots can prevent dry skin. They contain beta-carotene, which the body uses to produce vitamin A, which moisturizes the skin. Carrots are also a good source of vitamin C, an antioxidant removes free radicals, such as those produced by too much sun exposure, which can lead to premature aging. Vitamin C also aids in skin collagen formation, which declines as we get older.

3. Sweet Potatoes:

 A favorite at Thanksgiving dinners, sweet potatoes should be enjoyed throughout the year. Sweet potatoes provide vitamin E, which the body uses to regenerate and maximize the effectiveness of vitamin C, very effective antioxidants for skin protection



4. Mangoes:

 Per the National Mango Board, this tropical fruit contains more than 20 varieties of vitamins and minerals. Mangoes have a fruit acid enzyme profile and contain Beta-C and vitamin A derivatives that activate cell regeneration.

5. Mushrooms:

Mushrooms are one of the only food sources for vitamin D, contain antioxidants, and have anti-inflammatory properties. All of this helps the skin remain strong and youthful, as inflammation plays a role in aging and may increase risk for some skin cancers.
 

One more thing.. don't forget to make sun screen a regular part of your make up routine.  There are skin benefits in  zinc oxide that is contained in sun screens. 
Zinc is an extremely essential element for healthy skin. Apart from sun protection, it is useful for wound healing, acts as an astringent and also helps with the treatment of acne.

For my "Mother Of the Groom Friends"

I was a mother of the groom once.  My daughter in law's  mom had it all under control and did such a great job with every detail,  that I was not sure what was my role.  So I did some research and found out! I concentrated on my job of putting together a wonderful rehearsal dinner.  I am posting here a great list from marriage.com for all of you who may need some direction in what way to go as Mom of the groom.

Responsibilities of the Mother of the Groom The mother of the groom is often at a loss as to exactly what role she plays in the marriage of her son. This is even more true when she has not participated previously in a wedding for a daughter or other sibling. The following rules of etiquette are shared to increase the joy and fulfil the traditional responsibilities of the mother of the groom. Her responsibilities include: The first rule of etiquette to be followed upon receiving news of the impending nuptials is to initiate contact between the families. Introducing herself and her husband to the bride's parents is her first responsibility. This may be as simple as making a call to the bride's mother and telling her how happy she is about the engagement or an informal invitation to dinner at their home. If preferred, dinner at a nice restaurant is always in order. This may be with or without the couple in attendance. If the parents live far away, a friendly letter is appropriate. A snapshot of the family and maybe even one of her son as a small child is always welcomed by the bride's mother and is a kind gesture. The importance of providing an accurate and timely guest list can neither be over emphasized, nor the importance of sticking to the guidelines given her as to the number of guests she many invite. Remember to include zip codes. It is the bride's mother who will first select a dress for her daughters wedding. A gown of complimentary color and similar styling is then chosen by the mother of the groom. She must wear long if the bride's mother wears long or short if she wears short. The color should not match the bridesmaids, nor the brides' mother, but compliment both. Reservations for out-of-town guests, invited by the groom's family, are the responsibility of the mother of the groom. It will be much more convenient if a block of rooms are reserved at a nearby hotel, which is near her home. It is the responsibility of the groom's parents to host the rehearsal dinner. This can be as simple as a salad potluck with paper plates in the backyard or as elaborate as an exotic dinner with live entertainment in the finest restaurant. Everyone who takes a part in the ceremony is invited to the dinner. It is proper etiquette to invite the spouse or significant other of those participating, and the parents of children in the wedding. Scheduled family photographs, prior to the wedding, will dictate the groom's parents time of arrival. If photos are not scheduled to be taken before the ceremony, the arrival should be no less than one hour before the appointed time As the wedding begins, the groom's mother will be escorted down the aisle, to the first pew, right-hand side, by the head usher or a groomsman who is a family member. A nice touch includes the groom escorting his mother down the aisle. As the groom's mother is escorted to her seat, her husband will follow along behind. However, if the parents are divorced, the father of the groom will have been seated previously, two pews behind the mother. The role as mother of the groom, in the ceremony, may include lighting the family candle on the altar, along with the mother of the bride. Family candles are lit after the candle lighters have left the altar area, and prior to the entrance of the wedding party. The first official duty of the mother of the groom, during the reception is to stand in the receiving line greeting guests and introducing her friends and family to the bride and her family. Traditionally she stands between the bride and her mother. If the fathers of the couple choose to stand in the line, she will stand between them. Be familiar with the responsibilities of the Maid of Honor. You may want to have a conversation with the Maid of Honor to coordinate and avoid stepping on each other's toes.

Happy weekend! Good morning Saturday..

White Tea Targets Wrinkles, Sagging Skin

New research shows that white tea can be beneficial in supporting the body's elastic and collagen, as well as be helpful for other parts of the body.

Next time you’re making a cuppa, new research shows it might be wise to opt for a white tea if you want to reduce your risk of cancer, rheumatoid arthritis or even just age-associated wrinkles.

Researchers from Kingston University teamed up with Neal’s Yard Remedies to test the health properties of 21 plant and herb extracts. They discovered all of the plants tested had some potential benefits, but were intrigued to find white tea considerably outperformed all of them.

Professor Declan Naughton, from the School of Life Sciences at Kingston University in South West London, said the research showed white tea had anti-aging potential and high levels of antioxidants that could prevent cancer and heart disease. “We’ve carried out tests to identify plant extracts that protected the structural proteins of the skin, specifically elastin and collagen,” he explained. “Elastin supports the body’s natural elasticity, which helps lungs, arteries, ligaments and skin to function. It also helps body tissue to repair when you suffer wounds and stops skin from sagging.” Collagen is a protein found in connective tissues in the body and is important for skin, strength and elasticity, he added.

Results showed white tea prevented the activities of the enzymes that break down elastin and collagen, which can lead to wrinkles that accompany aging. These enzymes, along with oxidants, are associated with inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis. Professor Naughton said, “These enzymes and oxidants are key components of normal body processes. However, in inflammatory conditions, suppressing the activities of these excess components has been the subject of decades of research. We were surprised to find such high activity for the white tea extracts in all five tests that were conducted.”The researchers were blown away by exactly how well the white tea had performed. “We were testing very small amounts—far less than you would find in a drink,” Professor Naughton, one of the country’s leading specialists on inflammation, said. “The early indicators are that white tea reduces the risk of inflammation, which is characteristic of rheumatoid arthritis and some cancers, as well as wrinkles.”

Eight of the other plants and herbs analyzed also helped protect against the breakdown of both elastin and collagen. After white tea, bladderwrack performed well, followed by extracts of cleavers, rose, green tea, angelica, anise and pomegranate.

Pauline Hili, PhD, technical director for Neal’s Yard Remedies, said, “We are really excited by this research as it helps us to remain innovative and at the cutting edge of natural skin care. Celebrating the plants used in the Neal’s Yard Remedies products and understanding their specific actions on the skin is what it is all about. The Kingston University research program helps us to create safe, highly effective and cutting-edge products so it’s an ideal partnership for us.”

Journal reference: TSA Thring, P Hili, DP Naughton. Anti-collagenase, anti-elastase and anti-oxidant activities of extracts from 21 plants. BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2009, 9:27 (Aug 4, 2009)

Adapted from materials provided by Kingston University, via AlphaGalileo.