Stop the Mane Drain
Don’t stress about losing your tresses; get savvy and check out our expert tips on the best methods to minimise one of the biggest lifestyle banes – hair fall!

Does it break your heart to see bunches of your beautiful hair fall out every single time you wash your hair or comb it?
You are not alone. In fact, many women complain about the same thing. Some blame the water, some the harsh weather conditions, and some confess that they’ve not been particularly careful with maintaining their mane. Here, we tell you what exactly is going on, and what you can do to end this agony once and for all.

Why you are losing hair…
We wish we could pinpoint that one cause and nip it in the bud, but there is a lot that can contribute to this condition.
• Environmental factors: The usual suspects – pollution, harsh sun, and constant exposure to air-conditioning – dry out the hair, making it brittle and causing it to fall out easily.
• Stress: Many experts believe that stress is one of the major contributing factors to hair loss.
• Water: The water that is available is sometimes treated with a huge number of chemicals so when this water penetrates the scalp, chemicals start building up there. Sometimes it even contains a especially high content of calcium, which deposits in the hair follicle, blocking it, and also stops new hair from growing out.
• Poor nutrition: Since many women here in Pakistan cover their head, they don’t receive any vitamin D, which is very essential. Moreover, people go on diets without thinking about what it does to the skin and hair. Not having balanced meals leads to brittle hair, and ultimately breakage. Poor iron, keratin and zinc levels in the body are also some of the main causes of hair loss.
• Styling: It is hardly a surprise that your blow dryer and other hair tools that use heat are not exactly BFF candidates for your hair. Over time, they leave your hair dry and brittle, causing it to fall. Plus, the number of products you pile on, in an effort to make your tresses look good, also cause build up… and when not cleaned out on a regular basis, leaves your scalp dirty, leading to hair fall. In the same way, excessive styling and colouring, not only damages hair, but all the chemicals build up and block pores, not allowing new hair to grow.
• Other factors: Hormonal changes, natural ageing, pregnancy, weight loss, certain kinds of medication, thyroid disorders, anaemia and inherited hair loss are some other factors that can causeyour hair to fall.

Styling and treating your hair with chemicals too often not only damages the hair, but the chemical build-up blocks hair follicles and doesn’t let hair grow

What you can do to fix this…
You first need to figure out which factor exactly is causing your hair to fall out before taking action. It is normal to lose about 80-100 hair a day, but how much is normal varies from person to person, and it’s easy to know when you’re losing too much hair.
Start out by fixing what you eat. Eat a balanced diet, which has enough carbohydrate and protein. When snacking, pick a complex carb, like fruits, or crackers. Try to maximise your iron and zinc levels, by eating foods that contain light levels of these minerals and also ensure you drink lots of water.
Dr Francesca Frusco, a New York based dermatologist and scalp care specialist suggests increasing intake of essential fatty acids that are found in oily fish and avocadoes, that help not only the scalp, but the general condition of the skin as well. She also suggests popping zinc supplements as they help prevent dandruff, which can also cause the hair to fall.
Experts also advise a diet rich in Omega 3 fatty acids, eating dark green vegetables for their folic acid content and getting daily fix of vitamin D either through sun exposure or supplements, and taking a combination of iron and lysine supplements.
Making a few changes in your hair care routine is also necessary. First of all, get a good haircut, and chop them down to a comfortable level, because the longer your hair is, the more it is prone to breakage. The kind of products you use, of course, also make a huge difference. Looking out for hair products rich in caviar – will help nourish and revitalise the hair, as well as seal the moisture in. Usingproducts that are sulfate and paraben-free is also highly recommended.
How you wash your hair, is another surprising thing you could be doing wrong. Give the scalp a boost by alternating the use of hot and cold water while washing hair to increase the circulation and prevent dead cells from forming on the scalp. Similarly, washing your mane every day is a big no-no. Put a little shampoo in your hair, wash it gently, and rinse. Don’t scrub your scalp! Also, when you apply a moisturising mask, don’t just restrict it to your hair, but also nourish the roots by applying it on your scalp.
Take care of your hair by keeping it chemical-free as much as possible. Avoid using too many products on it, and colouring your hair as far as possible. If you absolutely must style, use a heat styling protector, and before stepping out in the sun, spray on a little hair sunscreen.
Make a few lifestyle changes so you stress less. Opt for meditation and yoga to calm your mind and body, which will help not only the condition of your hair to improve, but also help you lead a calmer life.

Style it right
Okay, so your hair is thinning, and you hate that it looks so limp, but you needn’t worry – there is a solution for that too! You can make your hair look fuller by taking a small drop of regular conditioner and spreading it lightly in your hair, running your fingers through it.
Pin or tie your hair up in a loose bun, and after a few minutes, you can just untie it for voluminous ‘done and undone’ look. You can also accessorise with bright scarves, to take the attention away from the hair.
If you are planning on getting a haircut, opt for blunt, choppy cuts to give your hair a fuller look. You can style it differently on different occasions, like opting for a side parting for a more feminine look.
Now that we’ve got you all the solutions and inside information, there is no reason for innocent strands to die a gruesome death anymore. And please, don’t stress about losing hair… it will only make it worse!

How to look younger with make-up
With the right tricks, turning back the clock can be as simple as opening your make-up bag

Moisturise
Before you even think of applying make-up – as in while your skin is still damp from cleansing – slather on a good quality moisturiser.

Choose liquid concealer
As you age, you have more to conceal, but concealer can draw attention to lines. You should go for a product that hides redness and circles without getting cakey, and that means you want a liquid cover-up in a click pen. Anything that comes in a pan has a wax base and will look waxy on the skin. A click-pen formula covers just as well and doesn't seep into lines.

Buy a foundation that matches your skin tone
Pick a hue that warms up your beautiful skin tone because the warmer your skin looks, the younger itlooks. This goes for all skin types.

Use a sponge
You may be tempted to cover up every imperfection with foundation. Well... don't! A damp sponge is your new best friend. Quickly wet your sponge under the faucet, squeeze out the water, and put a dab of foundation on the back of your hand. Pick up the foundation you need with the tip and apply it in dabbing motions on your face. Between the sponge absorbing some of the foundation and the water thinning the rest, you will get the optimal sheer coverage. You may need to blend it with your fingers, but the point is that it won't look cakey or opaque.

Skip tinted face powder
Covering your skin in powder is a really bad idea. So, its better to just skip it. If you feel naked without powder, use translucent, light-diffusing powder, nothing tinted, to set your base and apply it in sunlight so you know what it actually looks like.

Keep piling on the moisture
Nothing makes you look older than heavy powder formulas. Make-up artists recommend stocking your bag with creams, gels, liquids, and products that generally don't require the use of a brush. The more hydrated your skin, the younger it looks.

Show off your bone structure
After years of smiling into a mirror to isolate the apples of your cheeks, you can now give it a rest. Women lose fat in their face as they age. Take advantage of that! Rub your blush in along the highestpoints of your cheekbones – it makes your bone structure stand out.

Choose a light brow pencil
When you're filling in your brows, use a pencil that's a shade lighter than your natural colouring and hold it at a 45-degree angle, as opposed to perpendicular to the skin. The strokes will be softer, and the brows will look more natural. This is a good thing because it makes your full, thick and lush brows look totally real!

Curl your lashes
Unearth your eyelash curler. If you're over 35, you need to be curling your lashes. Eyelashes flatten as you age, and you need to keep everything going upward, against gravity. Even if you skip mascara, curling your lashes makes your eyes look bigger and brighter.

Apply eye-shadow base
Patting the tiniest dab of eye-shadow base or primer on the lids before your shadow will keep it in place. This is especially important if your lids have even the slightest wrinkles. Fine lines can exacerbate creasing, and creasing exacerbates the appearance of lines. 

Wear brown eyeliner
You have been using black eyeliner since college, you wear it every day, and you could apply it withyour eyes closed (and probably do). It's time to end that relationship. Deep brown has the impact of black, but looks less jarring. It gives you all the intensity, but in a more sophisticated, subtle way. Draw the pencil along the upper lashes only, and lift the lines at the outer corners with a cotton swab. You can also flick the liner up at the outer corners with the cotton swab to create the tiniest wings. It's an easy way of opening up the eyes.

Don't shy away from shimmer
A bit of soft shimmer is flattering as you get older because it brings light to the face. The skin starts losing its inherent radiance when a woman hits her 30s. You can opt for a creamy neutral shadow, like champagne, pewter, or rose gold. Dab it on the inner corners of the eyes to wake up the face.
Choose a lengthening mascara
Lashes get thinner as you age, so conventional wisdom says you need a thickening mascara to bulk them up, but common wisdom is wrong. Your lashes can't support the extra weight. Heavy formulas flatten the lashes. Instead, use a lengthening mascara, like Lancôme High Definition Mascara, whichtends to be lighter on the lashes, and look for mascaras with thin wands so you can easily coat each lash.

Switch to nude lips
It's a sad fact that as we age, our lips get smaller, especially the upper lip. The best approach is to stick to shades that enhance your natural lip tone, rather than bringing attention to the area. Look for somethingbetween your natural lip colour and a berry shade. That will just boost your natural tone. And go for a stain instead of a creamy lipstick to prevent the colour from bleeding. Then top it off with a clear gloss or balm to keep lips looking full and hydrated.

Try highlighter
If that shiny-old-lady look creeps you out, you're not alone. But there is a way to use highlighter to your advantage. Dab a very sheer formula just on the cheekbones, not on the brow bones, the apples of the cheeks, or the lips. It prevents the flat-face look. It adds a very subtle, youthful, and pretty dimension to your features.

Natural remedies to treat dandruff


If you hate using chemical laden hair products and want to make the best of nature's goodness to combat yourdandruff problem, then try these home remedies that are sure to give excellent results.

Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is one of the most effective remedies for dandruff. Mix 1/2 cup of apple cider vinegar with 1/2 cup of water in a spray bottle. Apply it onto your scalp and avoid contact with your eyes. Massage into your scalp and leave on for at least 15 minutes before washing out. Do this one or two times a week for 3 months.

Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil has natural antiseptic and antibiotic properties that can help to get rid of dandruff. Because it is an essential oil, it should be mixed with a carrier oil such as olive oil or jojoba oil. Add 20 drops of tea tree oil to 60ml carrier oil. Shake it and then pour 1 teaspoon of the mixture in a bowl. Massage the oil onto your scalp using your fingertips for about 3 minutes. Leave the oil on your scalp for an hour before rinsing.

Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera is a great home remedy for dandruff. Simply massage the gel on to your scalp and leave itwhile you sleep. The next day thoroughly wash your hair.

Fenugreek Seeds
Fenugreek seed is another effective natural remedy for dandruff. Soak about two tablespoons of fenugreek seeds in a bowl of water and keep it overnight. The next morning, grind the seeds into a paste. Apply this paste over your scalp and leave it on for about 30 minutes, and then rinse your hair with shikakai or ritha. This treatment should be done at least twice a week for two weeks.

Baking Soda
Baking soda is a popular natural remedy for dandruff. Since baking soda is an alkaline, it may bring the pH balance of the scalp to a healthy equilibrium. First rinse your scalp with water, and then gently rub a handful of baking soda onto your scalp. Rinse the baking soda thoroughly. Repeat this every time you wash your hair, but only use baking soda, and no shampoo. At first, this treatment may dry your hair but in a few weeks your scalp will start producing its natural oils. It will make your hair soft and free from dandruff. However, avoid using baking soda in your food. It’s not good for health. If affects the digestion and ferments the food.

Lemon Juice
Lemon juice is also effective in treating dandruff. Mix one tablespoon of lemon juice with five tablespoon of coconut oil. Massage this mixture all over your scalp and leave it on for 30 minutes, and then wash with a shampoo. Lemon clears all the existing flakes on your scalp while the coconut oil heals the scalp tissue.

Olive Oil
Olive oil is a great clarifying and moisturising agent, making it one of the best natural remedies for keeping dandruff from forming in the first place. Massage a lukewarm olive oil over your scalp and wrap with a warm towel. Leave it on for few minutes and then rinse your hair with shampoo.

Rosemary Oil
Rosemary oil also helps in treating dandruff. It can be used in your shampoo or massaged directly onto your scalp without adding any shampoo. Pour three to four drops of rosemary oil onto your palms and rub the oil on your scalp with your fingers. Leave the oil on for few hours before rinsing thoroughly. You can also apply mixture of rosemary oil and coconut oil to your scalp to treat dandruff.

Neem Leaves
Neem leaves have good antiseptic properties which make it an effective remedy for dandruff. Soak two handfuls of neem leaves in a cup of hot water and leave it overnight. In the next morning, use this water to wash your hair. Alternatively, you can grind neem leaves and mix with a little water. Apply the paste all over your scalp. This will help you get rid of dandruff.

Almond Oil
Almond oil is very useful for treating dandruff as well. Gently massage this oil on your scalp and then cover your head with a warm towel. Leave it for about 15 minutes and make sure it does not become a cold towel. Then wash your head with a mild shampoo. Continue this for a few weeks and you will see an improvement in your condition.

10 New Ways To Younger-Looking Skin
Some unusual tips to make your skin look youthful

A day at the mall is incomplete without a saleswoman pitching a new anti-ageing cream that “dramatically reduces wrinkles” or has “rare ingredients”. But that can’t be all there is to keeping wrinkles at bay. While there’s a lot riding on that jar of cream you choose to grow old with, there’s much more to the skin and the rate at which it ages. Many things are within your control to help you prevent your skin from sagging, avoid the appearance of fine lines and the cruel onset of wrinkles. Here, we have put together a list of 10 things, from simple habits to elaborate rituals, which help you save face and keep your youthful visage.

1. Keep the hands off
We express our feelings through our bodies. When we are worried, our hand automatically reaches our forehead, when shocked or surprised, it covers our mouth; when we are bored, we cup our face with our hands. We keep touching our facial skin through the course of the day and this actually hampers the health of the skin, even if you wash your hands countless times a day. The possible reason is bacterial infection, which may cause breakouts. When the skin is frequently touched, we also have a tendency to scratch it and squeeze the eruptions if any. It is never recommended to touch the skin frequently. For the same reason, always wash the hands thoroughly before washing your face.

2. Lesser the glare, lesser the scare
Direct sunlight is not the only form of light that ages our skin. Light bulbs at home, sunlight streaming through the windows and even the glare from televisions and computer screens accelerate ageing. Recent studies reveal that non-LCD and LED screens emit UV rays. Choose a day cream with a basic SPF of 15even if you don’t plan to step out. At night, dim the lights when they are not required. Not only will it decrease photo-ageing, it will also be good for your sleep cycle.

3. Get a head start
Prevention is better than cure. The skin starts losing its elasticity and collagen levels from age 25, though you may not see pronounced effects until a decade later. Don’t wait to spot the wrinkles first and then think of what to do about it. Starting an anti-ageing skincare regimen from age 25 will help you look 25 for a long time. This is all the more important if you have dry skin as the wrinkles and fine lines set in faster for this skin type. Formulations with antioxidants, hyaluronic acid, vitamin A, C and E are your best bet.

4. Set the trap
Moisturising alone won’t work. But doing it well will. For hydrating the skin optimally, what is more important than the moisturiser you use is how well your skin holds on to it and prevents it fromevaporating into the atmosphere. Always apply it within minutes of taking a bath (or on damp skin) to trap the water for a longer time.

5. Take care of the extras
Apart from your age, there are other subtle giveaways of age like crinkled eyes, dry ears, wrinkled skin on the neck, and hands ravaged by fine lines. Pay close attention to these. Use as much of your skincare products on your neck as you do on your face. The skin around the eyes is the most delicate on your body, so spend a few more seconds massaging the creams in this area and protect them with sunglasses when outdoors. Lightly moisturise the skin on your ears, too. Hands also need special attention as they don’t have oil glands of their own and need external moisture to remain supple.

6. Kick the butt
The most effective way of looking older quicker is to put a cigarette between your lips. Smoking is a definite contributor to ageing skin. It narrows the tiny blood vessels in the skin’s outermost layers, which decreases blood flow. This depletes the skin of oxygen and vital nutrients. Smoking also damagescollagen and elastin, the fibres that give the skin its strength and elasticity.

7. Fortify your frame
Ever noticed how your grandparents have ‘sunken’ eyes and cheeks? Not only do we lose elastin and collagen as we age, we also lose bone. And yes, that also includes the bones on your face. According to a study by the University of Rochester’s Medical Center, our bone structure is overhauled every decade or so. With time, our cheek bones deteriorate, eye sockets become bigger and the jaw slackens, making it look like the skin is ‘hanging’ on our facial bones. While all other age-related issues can be sorted with surgical and non-surgical procedures, nothing can be done about bone loss. The only solution is to supplement your diet with ample calcium and vitamin D to uphold the bone structure.

8. Massage away
Facial skin massage with a moisturising agent enhances blood supply to the skin, making it supple and preventing premature ageing. But tread with caution, too much could worsen adult acne. Make sure to use creams labelled ‘non-comedogenic’, which doesn’t clog pores, to avoid contact allergic dermatitis. People suffering from eczema or acne should avoid facial massages. Good lubrication is the key to a good massage. Aloe Vera and cucumber gels are ideal for oily skin and don’t induce problems like acne and white heads. For dry skin, jojoba oil is a good option.

9. Defy gravity
The force of gravity acting against our bodies is the primal cause of ageing. Japanese studies reveal that the higher up we are, the greater is the force of gravity on us and in turn, our skin. Since we can’t elope to the moon (or get a home on the ground floor) to stay forever young, we can try floor exercises that have us in a horizontal position. The yoga posture called shirshasana (head stand) is ideal, but takes a lot of time to master.

10. A colourful plate
To prevent sagging of skin, one should follow a diet which is rich in antioxidants as they scavenge and eliminate the free radicals and minimise their detrimental effect on ageing. Antioxidants like beta carotenes, vitamin C and E, coenzyme Q10 and omega-3 fatty acids play a crucial role in delaying ageing. A variety of colours in your diet ensures supple skin. Binge on berries, pomegranates, grapes, salmon, oranges, tomatoes, carrots, spinach, beans, ginger, walnuts, dried apricots, green tea and flaxseeds to keep people guessing your age.

Summer Make-up 101
When it comes to summer beauty products, sunscreen is the only thing you should be laying on thick. Here are the best tips on how to lighten up but still look put-together this summer!

Go minimal
Whether you're going to the beach or just feel like embracing the carefree summer vibe, skip base entirely and stick to concealer. Covering up shadows, spots, or blemishes with just a concealer means you won't have to worry about blotting away your make-up along with shine. Dab on a slightly tacky stick concealer with your fingers – the denser formula will stay put longer than a liquid.

Try a tinted moisturiser
Not comfortable going entirely nude? Leading make-up artists suggest swapping foundation for tinted moisturisers that even out the skin tone, add radiance, and don't feel heavy in the heat. For a sheer glow, look foran illuminating formula.

Shine strategically
To keep minimal summer make-up glowing, some make-up artists suggest adding light-catching highlights. Blend a touch of liquid highlighter on the tops of the cheekbones and brow bones and down the bridge of the nose. That takes a little practice – don't go all theway to the tip of the nose, or it will look oily.

Use multitasking make-up
Easy-to-blend satin-finish lipstick is just as resilient as a cream blush. They're put to the test on your lips – from drinking to wiping your mouth – so if the lipstick stays on through all that, it's bound to tint your cheeks all day long as well.

Make your mascara last
Water-resistant mascaras are the easiest way to avoid dreaded raccoon eyes. But if you find long-wearing formulas irritating, here’sa simple trick for you, sweep a clear mascara over your regular black one on your top lashes to seal the colour, and use only clear on your bottom lashes. It's a tip for those who get irritated by waterproof mascaras.

Brighten your eyes
It's time to lighten up. Smudge deep copper eye shadow all over your lids for a summery take on smoky eyes. Or use shimmery golden pink for a softer look. This way, you'll add light to the eyes. Pick a long-wearing cream-to-powder eye shadow in a glimmering shade, like Shiseido Makeup Shimmering Cream Eye Color in Mist, to brighten and define your eyes.

Kiss heavy lipstick good-bye
Bright stains and tinted balms, offer a healthy hint of colour for summer. But if you desire that “popsicle look”, then tap on a bright, deeply pigmented lipstick with your finger, blot, then repeat until you reach your desired intensity.

BEAUTY TIPS 2

What Your Mom
Never Told You
About Oil 
Did you know that almost all the products you use every day on your face and body are oil-enriched?
Mom said 'put oil', and as much as we resisted it then, it was good advice. Today's anti-ageing, softening and hydrating products all use oils. In that capsule that adds sheen and volume to your hair, that tube of lipgloss that hydrates with a high-shine finish, and in many other little helpers, oil plays a starring role.
It's An Old Favourite
India: The earliest written document states that fragrant oils were a common commodity in India even in 2008 BC. It is said that early temples were built entirely of sandalwood to ensure a fragrant, calming ambience.
Egypt: The use of beauty oils goes back to Pharaonic times. Egyptian priests used aromatic oils in 1500 BC, not only to embalm, but also to treat mania, depression and nervous disorders. Queen Cleopatra famously bathed in a mix of milk, nectar and aromatic oils, and most of the oils were sourced from China and India.
Europe: In France, the therapeutic properties of essential oils were researched and implemented by French cosmetic chemist Rene-Maurice Gattefosse, in the 1920s France. The oils were extracted from plants, seeds, herbs, fruits, nuts, shrubs, rind and even roots.
It's Currently All The Rage
While essential oils have been used for centuries, there is a theory for why they've become popular in the last decade. With increasing demand for natural and organic products, the usage of essential oils will eventually become the order of the day. Though the extraction process has evolved with the use of advanced technology, the ingredients are sourced and cultivated as they were centuries ago to maintain the purity of product formulations. In India, the concepts of ancient and natural have always been sacrosanct. Therapeutic oils used in products (both cosmetic and medical) are sourced and extracted from the plants found in the mountain ranges as they have great healing properties.
These products have a positive effect on our skin. They improve blood circulation, provide oxygen to the tissues and dispose of the carbon dioxide, thereby improving immunity and decreasing blood viscosity.
It Can Heal 
Essential oils are also considered nature's warriors, with anti-viral, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal, circulation-stimulating and deodorising properties. They are non-toxic and contribute to stimulating the body's healing mechanism. Essential oils are the life force of nature, they have therapeutic qualities that can treat issues like skin pigmentation and acne, and when used medically, oils can treat ailments like migraines or depression.
There's One Out There For You
When it comes to oils in beauty products, there's one for every purpose. Oils are used for cleansing, moisturising and protecting skin and nails. Oils have fatty acids for soft and supple skin, and also treat a variety of skin conditions; however, one should be careful about choosing the right kind of oils for their skin type.
Oily skin: Tea tree oil controls blemishes and breakouts because of its antibacterial properties.
Dry skin: Lavender oil and rose oil are nature's moisturisers.
Combination skin: Geranium and ylang-ylang balance and soothe the skin.
Acne-prone skin: Grapeseed and bergamot oils are known for their antibacterial properties.
Oily scalp: Olive oil will balance out an oily scalp.
Normal/dry scalp: Coconut oil is the best for normal to dry hair types.
Nails: Almond oil is used to hydrate cuticles and nails.
Products for younger skin need to have lighter textures and low oil levels in comparison to those for women with mature skin. As one begins to age, the natural oil secretion from the body reduces, so you'll need 'heavier' oils.
Doctors Are Getting Interested In It
The future seems promising, as the use and understanding of essential oils will only increase. Products containing essential oils to promote healthy living and household cleaning agents with natural oils that help eliminate carcinogens have already hit shelves in retail stores in the west.And while most oil-enriched products are being massaged or blended into your skin or scalp, the future could hold oils that change forms to vapour and powders.

Skin Care For Spring  Nothing cheers people up more than the weather turning warm! The coming of spring can be noticed all around, from shrinking piles of woollen clothes, to small green buds popping out on tree tops. The change in the weather and environment also means it is time to re-evaluate your skin care regimen. Changes made in preparation for winter's harsh reality will not be suitable for the freshness of spring. Cleansing and rejuvenation are the keywords for spring. Spring skin-care, in keeping with this overall theme, focuses on deep-cleansing, exfoliation and gentle nourishment to prepare the skin for the hotter months to follow. Spring is perhaps the most pleasant of all seasons. It is no excuse to compromise on your skin care. Your skin may be in a slump after the cold and harsh winter months. So it is important for you to get it prepared for the spring with the proper skin care. The foremost characteristic of spring is the transformation. Here are some effective skin care tips that will help you sport a gorgeous skin all through the spring season. Exfoliate regularly: Exfoliation is a quick-fix solution that delivers instant results. It removes all the dead skin cells that get accumulated on the skin surface and gives your skin a dull and dehydrated appearance. There is an extensive range of exfoliants available in the market that help you remove dead skin cells and reveal the fresh new cells from underneath. As a result, the skin becomes smooth and soft and your complexion looks brighter. Moreover, you can also get rid of the wrinkles and fine lines with consistent exfoliation. Spring clean your skin-care cabinet: Skin-care products and cosmetics generally have a shelf-life of about two years, after which they lose their effectiveness. Moreover, they can collect bacteria and therefore damage the skin. Spring is a good time to go though your skin-care products cabinet and do some cleaning. Throw away products that you have stored for years or anything that has acquired an odd smell or colour along with the ones that are past their expiry dates. Be especially careful with skin-care products that contain salicyclic acid or SPF. Moisturise effectively: it is important to keep your skin moisturised during the spring season. This could be especially beneficial if you use a moisturiser with SPF. If you tend to spend a lot of time outdoors it is important to keep your skin protected against the ill-effects of the sun. Even on a cloudy day there is no excuse to avoid SPF. Though the sun's rays are very dim when it is cloudy, they do reach your skin surface. Even when you are driving in you car, the sun affects you. Wear protective clothing: When you go out take along a hat and sunglasses. It will not only look good but also help to keep your skin protected from the sun's rays. Stay hydrated and well nourished: Drinking water is very important to keep your skin hydrated in the warm weather. Your internal organs get the benefits of water first and your skin is the last organ that gets its benefits. So make sure you drink lots of water to get good skin-care benefits. Nutrition is the basic building block to any skin-care system. Spring time is the best time to take advantage of fresh, green vegetables and fruits. Capitalise on the growing season of asparagus, baby greens like spinach, and strawberries. You probably already know that you must avoid oily and fatty foods that can contribute to skin problems. But don't forget to eat positively for your skin's health as well. Take advantage of warm-weather produce and eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables that are good for your skin, like leafy greens and antioxidant-rich fruits and berries. Vitamin A is long known to be an important component in skin care. Vitamin A is often found in night creams and prescription skin care products. Vitamin A has a proven ability to help fade out brown spots and ageing spots and to smooth rough edges. Retinoids are essential to making the skin look and feel younger. Adding a few carrots to your afternoon snack will help provide you with some beta carotene, a precursor to vitamin A. Vitamin B3 is another skin enhancing supplement, which is often overlooked. Yet the truth of the matter is that vitamin B3 has been shown to significantly reduce redness and to boost hydration. So, if you can't seem to down enough water throughout the day to hydrate your skin, try adding a B3 supplement to your regimen as well. Alongside fatty acids, B3 has been proven to strengthen the skin's protective barriers. This vitamin can help keep irritants out while maintaining moisture on the inside.It can also reduce and minimise dark pigmented spots. Treat eye puffiness: Your skin may be especially prone to allergies during the spring season. As a result, your eye area may look tired and puffy. Calm your eye contours by keeping your skin hydrated. There are a variety of eye creams that can help solve the problem. Another chief concern of spring involves the introduction of allergens to the air. Allergy flare-ups can cause puffy eyes, swollen sinus cavity areas, and redness on the nose and cheek area. Adjust your moisturiser: Winter's dry air calls for a stronger moisturiser, but warm weather brings increased humidity, which in turn can make you sweat and increase your skin's production of natural oils. Switch to a lighter moisturiser, one that is not oil-based, and that includes a higher SPF protection for the happy hours you'll be spending outdoors in the sunshine. Here are some ayurvedic skin-care tips to avoid kapha-related skin problems and to keep your skin looking radiantly fresh, clear and alive: Stringent cleansing, at least twice a day, is crucial. Choose a cleanser that is right for your skin type. Avoid harsh cleansers in general, and aim for purification while maintaining the moisture balance of your skin. To make your own cleanser for dry or normal skin, mix together two tablespoons of almond meal, two tablespoons of coarse oatmeal and a few drops of rosewater in milk or cream to form a smooth paste. For oily skin, blend together two tablespoons of coarse oatmeal, two tablespoons of multani clay, one teaspoon of lemon peel powder and 1/2 teaspoon of neem powder in fresh yogurt or water. Apply the cleanser in smooth upward strokes to face and neck. Wait for three-five minutes; then rinse off with lots of tepid water. Secret tweaks to enhance your natural beauty  FAKE! Shiny, Bouncy Hair Dye your hair a few shades darker than its natural colour. Dark hair reflects light better, which increases shine. Up the gloss with a homemade mask. Mash a banana with 1tbsp clear, runny honey and apply over wet hair. Cover with a warm towel and leave for an hour, then shampoo and rinse well. It will leave your hair looking beautifully glossy and boost its volume too. Disguise split ends by applying a pea-size drop of your regular conditioner todry hair. FAKE! Perfectly Manicured Nails  If you want nail polish that lasts for weeks without chipping, try some good branded one. The salon manicure is a cross between a long-lasting nail varnish and a gel nail, that won't damage your natural nails. The gel-polish is painted on like a varnish, then set under a UV light. It won't chip or fade and lasts up to four weeks before you have it removed by soaking in a special solution. FAKE! Fuller Lips Exfoliate your lips Whip up your own scrub by adding sugar to your face cleanser. The stimulation puffs them up and the scrubbing helps smooth them. Outline just above the V of your cupid's bow with a shimmery white pencil to make it look like your lips are almost overflowing. Try kohl pencil in white or silver and blend with your fingers. Matte lip glosses can highlight lines around your mouth, so go for glossy finishes. Whiten teeth occasionally by rubbing with a paste of 1tsp bicarbonate of soda and water. It will gently remove stains and brighten up your smile.

Bridal Galore

Saree's

BEAUTY TIPS

Festive Makeover
It's time to gear up for the festive parties with the season's hottest look.

With the festive season upon us, the long list of parties you have to attend and the many sparkly clothes you have to wear are a must. What you may not have thought of though, is the make-up to match each dress and do. If you think festive season make-up is no different from the usual, think again. Make-up trends this season are pretty definitive. They are happily moving from grunge to gothic. You can also say the 50s are back. The good news is that in this accentuation, there is a make up trend to suit everyone. Grape is the season's hottest colour. You can see it everywhere – from lipsticks to blushes. But if you are unsure of its effect, go for the natural look. Minimise the use of colour on cheeks and eyes. Use light colours like beige instead to make the eyes look clear and bright, and skin dewy and soft. When applying make-up this festive season be perfectly sure of how much make-up you want. If unsure, go for the minimalistic look. Following are the key make-up trends for eyes, lips and cheeks this season.
FACE
Blush
For a natural look, a pinkish blush on the apples of the cheeks will give you a healthy holiday glow. Rose, a traditional colour, works from day to evening and looks fabulous on dark skin tones. Grape and apricot shades are also very popular this winter. Be careful when choosing the shade of blush. The perfect colour should look like a natural flush. To find your colour, do a quick burst of exercise and check out your cheeks. Don't use blush to compensate for your faded summer tan.
Highlighters
Brighten your skin with a dusting of luminous pressed powder for a warm and radiant glow.
Apply highlighter on cheekbones, brow bones, down the centre of the nose, temples and shoulder blades. Use a touch of iridescent colours in the inner corners of the eyes too.

Top Tips
· Let your skin's natural glow come through if you have mature skin. Pancake on mature skin, piles over the years. A dab of lip gloss, a coat of mascara and brief cover-ups wherever required are the finishing touches.
· No matter how much make-up you apply, you can't hide dry skin. Moisturise your skin thoroughly before applying make-up, for a smooth and silky finish. Without moisture, make-up looks cracked and unflattering.
· Avoid over-moisturising. Dot on a little, work it in and let it be fully absorbed. If you have oily skin, you may not even need a moisturiser.
· Make sure your foundation matches your jawline and not your hand. Avoid a very heavy foundation as it only draws attention to the area you want to cover. Your skin changes its colour through the seasons so your foundation shade needs to change too.
Bronzers And Powders
Keep your skin looking like satin this season with less powder and more shine. Use a bronzer powder that is two shades darker than your skin and sculpt your cheeks and eyes. Go for a cream bronzer if you wish as it has a stronger pigment. But, never use blush to contour your face – it looks very artificial.
EYES
Eyeshadows
This season is all about accentuating the eyes in a unique way. For added mystique, the smoky look is best (yes, it's back). However, it does not have to be black. Instead, choose charcoal shades with hints of purple, blue and green or even glossy brown. This look goes great with bare, glossy lips and matte skin.
For a more natural look, you can use subtle shimmers and even gloss on the eyes. Blended together, pearly shades, pale pinks, beiges, blues, silvers and neutral tones create a dewy look. When using shimmer eyeshadows, use a matte base first so the shimmer has something to hold on to. For an alternative to the natural look, team this with pearlescent lip gloss and dewy skin finish. Remember to always apply concealer and powder to your eyelids before applying eyeshadow. This helps the colour blend in easily and last longer.
Strong eyebrows are also back with a bang. Using a thin brush, apply eyeshadow in order to cover any unattractive marks and brush your eyebrows so the hair stays in place. Never fill in eyebrows with pencil – you may end up looking like an extra from the set of The Adams Family. For a natural look, use a powder and a brush, and with light feathery strokes, fill in the eyebrows.
Top Tips
· When the base of the lower eyelashes is traced with a thick eyeliner pencil which is not blended in, it looks unflattering. Make sure your pencil is sharp, or use a thin liner brush instead.
· Avoid over frosted eyeshadows. A little sparkle on the brows and eyelids look pretty but too much and poorly blended shadow looks plain unattractive.
· Comb your lashes before the mascara dries.
Eyeliners
The winged eyeliner is back. This season you can add a bold pop of colour like a blue shadow along the crease for a more dramatic look. Why not try fishtail flicks (two lines at the outer corners instead for one)? For a more subtle look line the inside of the eyes with a black kohl pencil. This will set off the eye colour perfectly.
Mascara
A 'no mascara' look is a key trend this season but only if you are going for the minimalist, natural look. If that is the case, instead of layering on mascara, simply put on a little liner and eyeshadow. If you find mascara a habit hard to break, try swapping black mascara for brown.
If festive glamour is more your thing, curl your lashes before applying a lash primer and then a generous coat of your favourite mascara. It is best applied in a zig-zag motion starting at the lash roots.
For extra drama and impact, add a few individual false lashes to the outer corners of the eyes and bring on the mascara!
LIPS
Bright red lips are back – but now with more power. This season, try a deep, matte red – go for reds with a hint of grape. If you wish to be truly faithful to the season's 50s inspiration, deep scarlet, deep purple and berry are the shades to use.
When applying red lipstick it is helpful to use liner to achieve proper lip shape, followed by a lip brush for precise application. Blot and powder lips with translucent powder before applying a second coat. This will ensure the colour lasts all day.
Matte and gloss for lips are both acceptable for the season, depending on the overall look. These can be complemented with winged eyeliner (use liquid liner) for an authentic 50s look. Add some sticky gloss for a modern twist.
Nude shades, beige and light pinks are also a good choice this season. Dust on some shimmer powder for holiday sparkle.

Top Tips
· Never extend your lipliner beyond your lip's natural line to correct an uneven shape as it will look unnatural.
· The best way to prevent lipstick feathering is to trace the edges of your mouth with a lip liner (the same colour as your lipstick or your skin-tone). After applying lipstick, blot with a tissue. If you find your lip colour is still too slippery, consider switching to matte or semi-matte lipsticks. Using semi-permanent lip stains is another way to prevent feathering.
Lipliners
Choose a lipliner that matches the colour of your lipstick. When applying, start with the 'v' at your cupid's bow. Then from the outer corners draw small, feathery strokes to meet the centre V. Do the same with the lower lip, starting with the lower curve. Lipliner helps define your lips and reshape them if they are uneven. It can also make lipstick last longer if you fill in your lips with a loner before applying the lip colour.

10 Beauty Rules To Break

There are certain mantras that turn out to be valuable truths to live by – you know, things like "Never go to bed angry" and "You look so much nicer when you stand up straight." But when it comes to beauty, some of the wisdom passed down to us by our elders turns out to be – well, not so wise. Here are 10 beauty rules that you can definitely rebel against.

Brushing Hair 100 Times
Perching on the edge of your bed and patiently counting brush strokes may be a relaxing ritual, but it's not going to make your hair healthier. Too much brushing will only lead to breakage therefore brush only as often as needed for styling and detangling.

Matching Lip Liner For Longer Colour
This may have been the purpose for which lip-liner was intended/invented (and the reason it's called liner,after all), but nobody really uses it this way anymore. The reason? You risk ending up with an unattractive darker outline around your lips once your lipstick wears off. The new rule: Colour your lips entirely with the liner first, then layer lipstick on top for super-staying power.

Drink Lots Of Water For Glowing Skin
It's true that being dehydrated does nothing pretty for your complexion, but drinking excessive quantities of water (beyond the eight or so glasses generally recommended) will only lead to superfluous bathroom visits, not plump, perky skin.

Keep Lathering For Clean Hair
That squeaky feeling just means you've washed away all the natural oils that give hair its shine and bounce. The hair shaft is extremely delicate, and this can strip essential oils, which is damaging.


Only File Nails In One Direction
Your nails grow and get their health from the base, not from the edge that extends beyond your fingertip and gets filed. If you sit there and really saw away at your tips with a rough file, you could create enough friction to impact your nails' health – but generally speaking, as long as you don't saw away too crazily, filing back and forth won't weaken your nails.

Don't Let Your Roots Show
It figures that now that there are jillions of excellent products designed to help you cover up those telltale roots, having visible roots is actually one of the biggest hair trends. The concept is called "ombre" hair, the roots are dark but the hair gets lighter and lighter toward the ends.

Red Hair = No Red Lips

This is another long-running beauty rule that all of Hollywood seems to be breaking lately – and the results can be gorgeous. Flame-haired actresses like Amy Adams and Emma Stone love to work the red carpet in fiery red lipstick. Red hair itself is also a huge beauty trend this season – perhaps because it no longer has those old makeup rules associated with it?

Only Pluck From Below Your Eyebrows
Go to any tweezing, waxing or threading place, and it's pretty much a guarantee that your aesthetician will remove hairs from above your brows. Removing hair above the brow line helps to create a more defined shape.

Eating Chocolate Gives You Pimples
Your waistline is much more likely to benefit from a no-chocolate rule than your skin – the idea that the sweet stuff is an acne culprit is a common myth. Clinical studies have failed to show that any food can actually cause acne (though in some rare instances, foods might exacerbate existing acne).

You Must Be Either Warm Or Cool
Can you honestly say you've figured out which tone you are – and what that means in terms of which eyeshadow, blush and lipstick hues you should choose? Warm and cool is really most important when you're picking foundation and concealer but you can break the rules with colourful makeup.

Home Packs Made Easy
Skin care experts have come up with some innovative ways to keep your skin shining smooth throughout these dry months when even most oiliest skin can suffer from dehydration and dull patchy skin tone. These three skin rejuvenating packs will not only restore your skin's oil and water balance but will also give it the much needed goodness of natural AHA, and vitamins. All you need to start your skin restoration process are some fruits and cereals from your kitchen and a pack of good moisturising cream. Take a 10 min break twice or thrice each week and do your skin a big favour. These will work best on dry, dehydrated to normal skin types.

Cleansing Pack
Ingredient:
• 2tsp moisturising cream
• 2tsp tomato pulp
Application:
Mix and apply on face and neck for 10 minutes. Wipe away and then wash off, preferably with lukewarm water.
Benefit:
The jojoba oil and vitamin E in the cream refreshes and smoothens and adds extra nourishment to your skin. The lycopene in tomato is a natural antioxidant that fights free radicals and exfoliates the top layer to help in skin renewal.

Exfoliating Pack 
Ingredient:
• 2tsp moisturising cream
• 1tsp oatmeal soaked in water for 30 minutes and then made into a paste
• 1/2 carrot boiled and mashed
Application:
Mix and apply on face and neck for 10 minutes. You can also apply on arms and legs. Rub it gently on your face and arm in circular motion. Wash off with lukewarm water. It is great for sensitive skin.
Benefit:

Oats gently exfoliates and soothes dehydrated skin. Vitamin A in the carrot is an antioxidant that

prevents cell degeneration, and promotes cell renewal.


Glow Pack
Ingredients:
• 2tsp moisturising cream
• 5-6 almonds
• 1/4 cup black gram – soaked 3 hours and ground into a paste.
Application:
Mix and apply on face and neck for 10 minutes. Gently scrub in circular motion. Wipe and then rinse with lukewarm water
Benefit:
Almonds are rich in vitamin E which has anti-aging properties. The black gram husk exfoliates the skin, and tightens pores, and adds hydration.

Vintage Glamour
From screen siren lips to iconic smouldering eyes, this season's party looks are sure to turn heads 

It's no surprise that with Mad Men mania andladylike chic ruling the autumn/winter catwalks, old-school glamour is back and in a big way. The beauty world has been inspired with sumptuous Christmas make-up collections that hark back to the 20s and beyond, when dramatic red lips, smokyeyes and sleek, languorous locks were the order of the day. And with the latest application tips, fail-safe skincare and decadent make-up products, it's a look that's never been so easy (or quick) to pull off. So take your cue from the drama of days gone by and prepare to smoulder.

Perfect Skin
A flawless complexion never goes out of fashion. But while themovie stars of old wouldn't bat an eyelid at spending three hours in make-up, who has time these days? Luckily, the professionals agree there's a fool-proof shortcut to lookingradiant, fast. Prepare skin with a mini facial massage, working a light serum in small circular motions over the forehead, then along the brow bones and cheeks. It warms the skin, making it the perfect make-up base, plus it means you need less foundation as your complexion will already have a natural glow.
The moisturiser that has beauty editors' pulses racing at the moment is the rejuvenating facial system. It consists of an oil you work into the skin, followed by a facial sprits, which increases its absorption for extra plumpness. Also on our radar is treatment serum, not only is the bottle retro-glamorous, but it contains honey, a natural brightener that attracts and retains moisture in the skin.
Sculpted Cheekbones
By far the biggest beauty trend this season, the chiselled look takes its inspiration from the killercheekbones sported by screen icons such as Rita Hayworth and Joan Crawford in the 40s. Back then, a beige sculpted cheek was achieved with heavy matte textures and a snowstorm of powder but today that looks dated and unforgiving, especially if you're not in the first flush of youth, as it exaggerates any fine lines. What works now is a combination of highlighting your cheekbones, then shading in tones of warm sand to enhance your natural complexion.
Start with a sheer base. Then, using a brush, the trick is to sweep a cream highlighter over yourcheekbones, making sure you take it up to your brow bone and out to your hairline, patting away any sharp edges with your ring finger. Then smudge a tawny blusher, in a large 'C' shape in the hollows under your cheekbones, and dab away any shine on your T-zone.

Dramatic Eyes
Smoky eyes always appear on autumn/winter catwalks, but this season charcoal has been abandoned in favour of flashes of burnished gold and velvety purple. It creates drama but still keeps the look romantic. Start by sweeping a golden shadow over the lid to create a beautiful sheen. Then use a dark purple in the outer corner to open up the eye. Build on this effect by curling your lashes. It creates mini vertical lines on both sides of the eye, widening them and letting in more light so the whites look brighter. Follow with a coat of black mascara, then add a touch of metallic mascara to the lash tips to the catch the light.
This look is a balancing act: the more dramatic the eye, the more low-key the lip. Nude lips work best, beige with a hint of pink suits paler skin, while warmer shades of peach and toffee work well on darker complexions.

   

Classic Lips
The 1920s-esque look of deep lips teamed with taupe eye-shadow is also becoming increasingly popular. If you're nervous about a dark pout, remember there are a variety of textures to choose from, and tricks to give you a hint of colour without the intensity. For an easy-to-wear look, make the middle of your lips the darkest. Apply a creamy plum colour to the centre of your bottom lip and cupid's bow. Gently pat the colour across your lips, both with a tissue, then pat again. 
The catwalks are also awash with crimson lips. It's the one detail that provides instant Hollywood glamour. First dab foundation over your lips to stop the colour bleeding. Outline them with red liner, then apply your lipstick with a brush for extra precision. With such a bold mouth, stick to smoky taupes on the eyes, swished around the socket and winged out at the corners is the most flattering shape. Finally, run a little black liner near the base of the lashes, following the natural shape of the eye, and comb through two coats of mascara.
The 10-minute Hair Glamouriser
Pack away those straighteners – the 'Veronica' style (inspired by pin-up Veronica Lake), with its soft, cascading waves, is the retro look of the moment, it's elegant and sexy. To get the look, use a pea-sized amount of original hair serum, on the ends of your hair. Then take a large, round-bristle brush and blow-dry to a smooth finish. Comb the hair into a deep side-parting, then gather about an inch and a half off your hair line on both sides and feed into curling tongs. Wrap the hair diagonally to create an outward, loose wave, leaving the crown of your head flat. Finally, run a brush through it to soften the waves.



Creating Smoky Eyes
The beauty secrets for the sultry evening look
1. Blend a little foundation or concealer over your eyelids to hide any redness and create a smooth base, then set with a light dusting of translucent powder. Next, starting at the outer corner of the upper lash line, push the tip of a black eyeliner pencil between the roots of the lashes.
2. Working all the way along the upper lash line, build up the colour intensity between and around the lashes. This gives your eyes definition and makes your lashes look thicker.
3. Using a small, pointed brush, apply a dark grey powder eye-shadow along the upper lash line. Smudge and blend it well with the pencil line.

4. Apply a silver grey cream eye-shadow above the eyeliner, blending it up to the socket crease. This provides an ideal base for the powder eye-shadow to adhere to and also gives a flattering, shimmery effect.
5. Apply a little more dark grey powder eye-shadow to the lower part of the lid, taking it upwards from the lash line and gentlyblending the colours together.
6. Use a black eyeliner pencil inside the upper lid and along the lower lid, staying as close as possible to the lash roots. Finish with black mascara for added definition. •