look good in every photo

How to look good in every photo

Get the perfect profile picture

Fed up of being tagged looking terrible? Check out our tips for mastering the perfect pose and start looking your best in every shot.

Look to your right

A US study conducted by Wake Forest University has revealed that the left side of the face is more attractive than the right, apparently due to the fact that this side of the face shows more emotion. To capture the perfect profile picture, look slightly to the right to reveal your ‘best’ side. This can also help to give the illusion of a slimmer face for those with rounder faces.

Choose your makeup carefully

For the perfect photo-ready appearance, make sure you avoid light reflective or mineral foundations containing high amounts of titanium dioxide (a reflective pigment). Although these foundations are great for an everyday luminous look, the flash of a camera can quickly transform your dewy complexion to a ghostly white one as the white light reflects back from the camera. Once you have applied a suitable foundation, finish your look with some face powder to help eliminate shine.

Accentuate your best features

To look your sparkling best in photos, make sure you emphasize your favourite features to make them the standout feature in your snapshot. Try playing up your eyes with some eyeliner or false lashes. Alternatively, perk up your pout with some bright lipstick. Also, make the most of your best body features with an outfit that complements your shape and colouring.

Look away from the lens

Nobody wants glaring red or half-shut eyes ruining an otherwise great photo, so make sure you avoid this by focusing your eyes just slightly above or below the lens. Looking directly at the lens causes light to flash off the retina, leading to the red eye effect. Looking slightly away from the camera will also reduce the risk of those mid-blink shots.

Avoid “red eye” shots

As “red eye” in photographs is caused by light reflecting off the back of the eye, those with large pupils are more likely to suffer from this pesky problem. If averting your gaze from the camera is not doing the trick, another tip for alleviating the red eye effect is to make sure photos are taken in well lit environment or to look at a bright light just prior to the photograph being taken to make your pupils smaller.

Banish the double chin

There’s nothing worse than spotting a picture of yourself sporting a double chin where you previously only had one, yet sadly this happens to the best of us. To avoid the appearance of a double chin in photographs, make sure that the camera is just above or at your eye level. Also, try tilting your head up and jutting your jaw out slightly – you may want to practice this one first in the mirror to stay looking natural!

Avoid direct light

It may not always be possible to control the lighting for your photographs and, unless you happen to be a professional model, you most likely won’t have someone on hand to make sure it’s just right. However, it is worth bearing in mind that direct light from above can cast shadows on your face and accentuate the appearance of under-eye shadows. Opt for areas with softer lighting or head to the shade if outdoors.

Pose like a pro

If you’re posing for a full body shot, try the classic celeb pose of turning your body three quarters of the way towards the camera, with one shoulder closer to the camera and one foot in front of the other. This will make your body appear slimmer than if you were facing the camera face on. Try keeping your back straight with your shoulders back and your stomach in (just try not to suck it in too much, you won’t be fooling anyone!).

Master the perfect smile

Many of us focus on our mouths when smiling; however, in the words of supermodel Tyra Banks, it’s all about the “smeyes” (smiling with your eyes). Rather than forcing a grin, think about something that makes you happy for a more natural smile. You may also want to perfect your personal smile to work with your features. For instance, a beaming smile works great for those with good teeth, while a more relaxed half smile will make small eyes appear larger and lips appear fuller.

Practice your pose

If you’re really keen to capture the perfect photo, the best thing you can do is practice beforehand. Experiment with different face and body angles, smiles and facial expressions to find what works for you, either in front of the mirror or with your own camera. Once you have discovered which looks you like best, you are ready to unleash them at every photo opportunity, making sure you look perfect each time.

First and foremost teeth

First and foremost.. BRUSH your teeth regularly...

1.Baking soda is one of the best ingredients that you can use to get rid of your yellow teeth. You can make a whitening paste with baking soda by mixing two tablespoon of baking soda with 1-2 spoons of cold water.

2.lemon can be used to get rid of yellow teeth.

3.Salt is one of the fundamental dental cleansing agents used since ages as it helps to replenish the lost mineral content of the teeth and help them to regain their whiteness.

4.You can clean your teeth with fresh orange peel on regular basis.

5.Bite and eat crunchy fruits and vegetables like apples,carrots cucumbers and pears...

The Best Nutrients For Skin Health

The Ten Best Nutrients For Skin Health

It’s important to ensure adequate availability of the nutrients that best protect your skin health. As one of the only organs directly exposed to external elements, skin must be protected from the inside out. Therefore, both your daily diet and skin regimen (you too, men) should include these 10 skin protecting nutrients.

Lycopene

Lycopene is a powerful antioxidant that has natural UV ray protecting properties. A diet rich in lycopene gives your skin a little added protection again the sun’s harmful rays. Lycopene can be found in watermelon, tomatoes, pink grapefruit and papaya. 

Asthaxanthin

Astaxanthin is the pink-hued compound found in foods such as shrimp and krill. It is one of the only carotene compounds that is not converted to retinol in the body, therefore, 100% of its antioxidant strengths are reserved for fighting free radicals. With prolonged use, studies have shown astaxanthin is incredible for supporting skin heath and elasticity, and has even been shown to visibly improve the appearance of skin by reducing signs of aging such as dry skin, wrinkles and age spots. One of our trusted partners, SAN, has a great product called PurZanthin that uses 100% all natural astaxanthin from non-shellfish sources. Whichever brand you choose, make sure it’s 100% all natural as there are synthetic astaxanthin formulas on the market.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is excellent for skin both internally and topically. It’s antioxidant properties protect your skin against harmful free radicals while encouraging the production of collagen. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, 500 to 1,000 milligrams of dietary or supplemental vitamin C per day is sufficient. While dietary vitamin C can be found in citrus fruits, Brussels sprouts, red peppers and other foods, topical vitamin C is growing in popularity. It’s important to use a brand that you trust so that the nutrient concentrations aren’t compromised. Two products we trust are John Masters Organics Vitamin C Serum and Eminence Organics Couperose-C Serum.

Vitamin A

Vitamin A, or its precursor, beta-carotene, can be found in carrots or spinach and ensures the proper maintenance, repair and turn over of skin and tissue cells. If you’re deficient in vitamin A, you may notice a dry or flaky complexion because your skin is not repairing itself fast enough. Topical vitamin A in the form of retinol has been known to dramatically improve the appearance of skin. However, be sure to check with your dermatologist before considering a topical treatment, as it is not recommended universally.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids:

Omega-3s are associated with reduced inflammation and are known to increase the radiance of one’s complexion by locking in hydration. Good omega-3 sources include fatty fish, such as salmon, walnuts and flax seeds. Higher amounts of omega-3s can be obtained from a high quality, molecularly distilled fish oil supplement.

Vitamin E

Vitamin E is known to counter the harmful effects of UV exposure and provide superior antioxidant protection. Experts indicate that natural Vitamin E at about 400 mg per day has been noted to reduce photodamage and wrinkles and to improve skin texture. Topical vitamin E has been known to balance complexion and reduce the appearance of “sun spots.” Two brands to consider are Now Foods E-Oil  and Jason Pure Beauty Oil, Vitamin E Oil 32,000 I.U., 1 oz.

Biotin

Biotin is a B vitamin that is largely responsible for providing the basis for radiant skin and hair. Experts often recommend anywhere from 1,000-5,000 mcg per day which usually requires a supplement. Food sources for biotin include peanuts, Swiss chard and tuna.

Vitamin K

Topical vitamin K cream has been identified as one of the best (and only) treatments available for effectively reducing under-eye circles. We’ve found one, Naturopathica Vitamin K Brightening Eye Serum, that we are really comfortable endorsing, as it is a 100% organic brand that uses high quality ingredients.

Hyaluronic Acid

Hyaluronic acid has the remarkable ability to hold 1,000 times its weight in water, therefore, is a great nutrient for maintaining your skin’s hydration. Additionally, it acts as a bonding agent of sorts, keeping your skin cells from separating (i.e. wrinkling).

Alpha Lipoic Acid

This potent antioxidant is one of the only nutrients that is both water-soluble and fat-soluble. This means it can protect your skin’s cells from free radical damage both on inside and the surface. Topical treatments are growing in popularity but one of the best, organic brands we’ve found is Passport to Organics’ Face Lift – Total 360 Regeneration Cream with Alpha Lipoic Acid.(This formula also contains hyaluronic acid, vitamin C and a few other skin supporting nutrients.)

Pimples problem?

 

Hello Teens!!.....

Pimples problem?.....

Household Tips To Cure Pimples Using Natural products..

Pimple is a disease that affects the teenagers most and it sure makes the social life of a teenager miserable due to its appearance.

Cause of pimples:Hormonal changes in the body,geneticS,certain medicines,cosmetics,stress and dirt.

The pimples generally occur at face, though neck, back and shoulders are the other most popular body areas to host it.

Sebum that is produced by the sebaceous glad keeps the skin and the hair on it moist. Excessive sebum secretion by the sebaceous glands during the adolescence is the main reason for pimple eruptions.

Certain vitamins like Vitamin A when taken in combination of Niacin works wonders in curing pimples. Leafy vegetable like the spinach, broccoli, asparagus, mushrooms are excellent source of such vitamin and niacin.

Some of the natural home remedies for the treatment and cure of pimples are as follows.

*keep the skin clean, wash your face 2-3 times /day with mild soaps...

1.A combination of lemon juice and rose water when applied on the pimples and left for half an hour is a good remedy for pimples. This should be continued for three to four weeks as a natural home remedy.

2. Lemon juice when mixed with ground nut oil and then applied on the affected surface is a very good remedy for pimples. Sandal wood powder can also be added for added benefit.

3. Juice of raw papaya when applied on the pimples cures it naturally and without any side effects.

4. A very common herb is the mint. Appling freshly extracted juice of mint leaves on the pimples is a natural home remedy.

5. A paste of neem leaves and turmeric in water base when applied on the pimples and is left for half and hour heals pimples fast and effectively.

6. Two or three Basil leaves(tulsi) should be boiled in water for fifteen to twenty minutes. The decoction when cooled and applied on the infected surface cures the pimples fast and naturally.

With all such natural remedies available at hand why should one bother about chemical treatments? Natural home remedies are the best of all remedies.

Last but not least have patience....dont expect overnight results......

DRY SKIN???........

DRY SKIN???........

Dry skin is a very common condition sometimes associated with Itching and Scratching.It is common in colder winter months and drier climates.

Some times it could be due to serious conditions such as eczema, atopic dermatitis, allergies, asthma, hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism.

Here are some household remedies.

1)Decreasing bathing frequency.

2) lubricate the skin with thick moisturizers immediately after showers.

3) Apply Vaseline two or three times daily to wet skin.

4)Dry skin may be improved by taking lukewarm showers or baths and avoiding excess skin scrubbing.

5)Use mild cleansers or soap-free products .

6) Proper nutrition and essential factors in the diet may help improve dry skin.

7) Use Omega-3-rich foods which include flax, walnuts, safflower oil, and cold-water fish such as tuna etc..

Using an indoor humidifier.

9)Drink plenty of water.

For dry face:

1) Olive oil is one of the best natural moisturizer for dry skin. Apply a face pack made of a few drops of rose water and 1 teaspoon of olive oil. Mix the ingredients together and apply on your face for 20 minutes and then rinse with lukewarm water.

2) Coconut oil is one of the best facial moisturizers which works perfect for extremely dry skin. Apply a liberal amount of coconut oil on the face to soften the dry skin patches while you sleep. Do this every night and your severe dry skin on face will improve significantly.

3) Using almond oil is great for getting rid of dry flaky skin on face and all over your body. Almond oil has natural moisturizing, nourishing, and healing properties.

If these measures don't relieve your symptoms ,see your doctor or consult a dermatologist.

Oily skin problem??

Oily skin problem??...don't worry...

Oily skin conditions is a problem for both genders.

Oily skin is more likely to bring blackheads,whiteheads and acne (pimples)

Some Home remedies:
1)Keep your skin clean. Wash your face 2-3 times a day.

2)Scrub it. Give your skin some exfoliation by scrubbing it.

3)Wearing a mask, such as clay (multani mitti) for a few minutes of your day can do wonders to help soothe your skin and absorb extra oil.

4)Avoid moisturisers.

5)Mix 2-3 drops of sandalwood or lavender oil with 2 tablespoon of milk. Massage with cotton wool swab to clean.

6)Make a paste with 1 tablespoon rice powder, 1 tablespoon corn flour and a few drops of lemon juice. Add water if needed. Using an upward/outward circular motion massage the mix on the face. This particular blend actually rids dead cells that mass in the upper layer of the skin.

Dark circles around your eyes

Dark circles around your eyes???...

Not to worry…..

Some Household Tips How to Treat Dark Eye Circles~

1.Apply peeled and grated raw potato to your eyes at least three times per week. Leave the potatoes on your eyes overnight if possible.

2.Soak cotton balls in cucumber juice or slice a fresh cucumber and apply them to your eyes. Leave them on for 15 minutes for a relaxing treatment that helps reduce dark eye circles.

3.Massage almond oil into the skin surrounding your eyes at bedtime. Try this for two weeks to see results.

4.Practice pranayama, which is a controlled breathing exercise. Try this everyday for at least five minutes to reduce stress. Visit the Yoga website for information on how to practice pranayama.

5.Drink plenty of water. Staying hydrated can help reduce dark eye circles.

6.Eat a healthful diet containing fresh fruits and vegetables.

7.Get plenty of restful sleep.

Acne - Causes, Prevention and Treatment

                        Acne - Causes, Prevention and Treatment

What Is Acne?

Your skin has tiny holes called pores that that can become blocked by oil, bacteria, and dirt. When this occurs, you may develop a pimple or “zit.” If your skin is repeatedly affected by this condition, you may have acne.  Although acne is not a life-threatening condition, it can be painful, particularly when it is severe. It can also cause emotional distress.Fortunately, there are effective treatments for this condition that reduce both the number of pimples you get and the chance for scarring to occur.

What Causes Acne?

1.Too much oil or sebum is being produced by the follicle

2.Dead skin cells are accumulating in the pore

3.Bacteria has built up in the pore

4.An overabundance of oil, a pore clogged by dead skin cells, and bacteria all contribute to the development of pimples. A zit appears when the bacteria grows in the clogged pore and the oil is unable to escape.

How Can Acne Be Prevented?

It’s difficult to prevent acne. However, you can take some steps at home to help prevent acne following treatment. These include:

1.Washing your face twice a day with an oil-free cleanser

2.Using an over-the-counter acne cream to remove excess oil

3.Avoiding makeup that contains oil

4.Cleaning the skin thoroughly before bed, including removing makeup

5.Showering after exercising

6.Avoiding tight-fitting clothing

How Is Acne Diagnosed and Treated?

If you have symptoms of acne, your doctor will be able to confirm a diagnosis by examining your skin.

At-Home Care

1.Leaning the skin daily with a mild soap to remove excess oil and dirt

2.Regularly shampooing your hair and keeping it out of your face

3.Not squeezing or picking pimples, as this spreads the bacteria and excess oil

4.Avoiding hats or tight headbands

5.Avoiding touching your face

6.using makeup that is water-based or labeled as “noncomedogenic” (not pore-clogging)

Medication

These active ingredients include:

1.Benzyl peroxide: present in many acne creams and gels, used for drying out existing pimples and preventing new ones

2.Sulfur: a natural ingredient with a distinctive smell that is found in lotions, cleansers, and masks

3.Resorcinol: a less common ingredient that is used to remove dead skin cells

4.Salicylic acid: often contained in soaps and acne washes

Topical creams like retinoic acid or prescription strength benzoyl peroxide are often stronger formulas of over-the-counter treatments. These work to dry out the skin and reduce oil production. Women with hormonal acne may be treated with birth control pills or spironolactone. These medications seek to regulate the hormone-causing acne. Isotretinoin (Accutane) is a vitamin A-based medication that is used to treat certain cases of severe nodular acne. It has serious side effects, and is only used when all other treatments have failed.

Additional Treatments

Your doctor may recommend additional procedures to treat severe acne and prevent scarring. Many of these work by removing damaged skin.

1.Photodynamic therapy: also known as laser treatment, uses light pulses to remove the top layer of skin

2.Dermabrasion: removes the top layer of skin with a rotating brush

3.Chemical peel: an aesthetician applies a chemical to your face which essentially burns the top layer of skin. That skin later peels off to reveal less damaged skin underneath

Your doctor may suggest using cortisone injections if your acne consists of large cysts. Cortisone is a steroid naturally produced by the body. It can reduce inflammation and speed healing.

 

8 Face Washing Myths

 

Clearly, an old-school splash and scrub won't do. Here, the new rules for getting your freshest face.
Myth 1: WASH AND GO It's more of a two-step process. "Remove your makeup before you wash your face," says Montclair, New Jersey, derm Dr. Jeanine Downie. "Many cleansers can't take off concealer or foundation completely, especially around the eyes and nose." Use an oil-based cream, an emollient wipe, or a cleansing oil to dissolve stubborn sunscreen and makeup. Follow with lukewarm water and a dime-size amount of cleanser (look for the ingredients cocamidopropyl betaine or caprylic triglyceride, which are sulfate-free surfactants) on your fingers or a clean, damp washcloth. Rinse and dry with a soft paper towel if you're acne-prone.
Followup: 7 Basic Foods to Use as Skincare Products
Myth 2: WASH TWICE A DAY While the jury is still out on how often to cleanse (every a.m. and p.m. or just once at night), all derms agree that over-washing can lead to irritation and a lack of moisture. The rule is to use common sense: Always wash your face after a workout to prevent breakouts, and wash excessively oily skin morning and night. For very dry or sensitive skin, stick to cleansing once daily in the evening.
Myth 3: CLOSE YOUR PORES Sorry, folks, but you can skip rituals like massaging your face to increase circulation or splashing with cold water to "close" your pores. "Pores don't open and close," says Downie. In fact, extreme hot or cold can exacerbate problems like rosacea and redness. That said, mild steam can help soften hardened oil in pores, so it's never a bad idea to cleanse in the shower. And "while it feels nice, massage doesn't do much," adds Downie. "Exercise is what boosts your circulation."
Followup: 10 Best Lip Colors for Summer
Myth 4: BUY CLEANSER ACCORDING TO SKIN TYPE No matter what kind of skin you have, make sure the ingredients list doesn't contain fragrance, which can be irritating; parabens (potentially toxic preservatives); or harsh soap (it's drying). "If a cleanser fits that bill, the formula itself [cream, lotion, foaming, etc.] is more a matter of personal preference," says NYC dermatologist Dr. Brad Katchen. Of course, people with dry skin may prefer formulas with added moisturizers, like glycerin or shea butter. And "if you have oily skin, you might want a foaming wash that leaves skin feeling superclean," says Day.
Myth 5: SCRUB TO EXFOLIATE AND SMOOTH A salicylic- or glycolic-acid cleanser is gentler and more effective than grainy scrubs, and both offer antiaging benefits and help prevent breakouts. Alternate with your regular wash (start with three times a week), and adjust depending on how your skin is looking and feeling.

Followup: 7 Bedtime Habits That Are Ruining Your Sleep
Myth 6: USE TONER "An alcohol-based toner strips off natural oils," explains Day. Not good. "Gentle toners calm the skin and balance pH levels, but with the right cleanser, you don't really need this step." Love the feeling anyway? Choose gentle, alcohol-free versions.
Myth 7: BRUSH YOUR SKIN TO A GLOW EVERY DAY "A brush removes oil, dirt, and dead skin better than your hands can, and it's less aggressive than most exfoliating cleansers or scrubs," says Day. "But it's not something you have to use every night, especially if you're also applying ingredients like retinoids or acids. Too much exfoliation can cause inflammation." Basically: Use, but use sparingly. (Right now we're obses-sed with Clarisonic's new acne-cleansing brush head, below.) To keep your brush bacteria-free, rinse and air-dry after use. Oh, and hey, clean freak, like you do with your Brita, replace the brush head every three months.

Followup: 5 Secrets of the Highest Paid Women
Myth 8: SPEND A FORTUNE Save your pricier ingredients, like retinol or antioxidants, for leave-on products instead of washing them down the drain. "They're most effective when they stay concentrated on the skin," says Katchen.