#but also wear sunscreen! especially if its midday!

[bysumex]

Exploring Petra, Jordan: Travel Tips and Photography Insights 👉 https://bysumex.com/exploring-petra-jordan-travel-tips-and-photography-insights/

Petra, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, is a stunning archaeological site in southern Jordan. Known as the "Rose City" for its distinctive red and pink stone architecture, Petra was once a thriving trading center and the capital of the Nabatean Kingdom. If you're planning a visit to this iconic location, here's what you need to know, along with some tips for photographers to make the most of your journey.

Travel Tips for Visiting Petra

Plan Your Visit: The best times to visit Petra are during the cooler months, from March to May and September to November. Summer can be extremely hot, while winter can bring occasional rain.

Get There Early: Petra opens at 6 AM, and arriving early allows you to explore before the crowds and the midday heat. The Siq, the narrow canyon leading to the Treasury, is especially magical in the morning light.

Wear Comfortable Clothing and Footwear: You'll be walking a lot, so sturdy shoes are a must. Lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended, along with a hat and sunscreen for protection.

Stay Hydrated: Bring a refillable water bottle, as you'll need to stay hydrated throughout the day. There are a few spots to refill your bottle within Petra.

Purchase a Jordan Pass: The Jordan Pass is a great value, covering your visa fee and entry to Petra, as well as many other sites in Jordan. It also includes a digital guidebook.

Explore Beyond the Treasury: While the Treasury is Petra's most iconic site, there's much more to see. Be sure to explore the Monastery, the Royal Tombs, the High Place of Sacrifice, and the Roman Theater.

Consider a Guided Tour: A knowledgeable guide can enrich your experience by providing historical context and insider insights.

Tips for Photographers in Petra

Capture the Treasury Early or Late: The Treasury (Al-Khazneh) is best photographed in the early morning or late afternoon when the light is soft and warm. Arrive early to avoid crowds, or stay until closing time for a more tranquil scene.

Use a Wide-Angle Lens: The grandeur of Petra's structures is best captured with a wide-angle lens. This allows you to capture the scale and intricate details of the architecture.

Experiment with Perspectives: To get unique shots, play with different angles and viewpoints. For example, photograph the Treasury from the cliff above (the "Secret Viewpoint") for a breathtaking view.

Bring a Tripod: A tripod can be useful for low-light conditions, especially in the Siq or during Petra at Night (a candle-lit event). It also helps with capturing long exposures for dramatic effects.

Be Respectful and Avoid Flash Photography: Petra is a UNESCO World Heritage site with cultural and historical significance. Be mindful of your surroundings, and avoid using flash, as it can disturb other visitors and harm the ancient stonework.

Capture the Details: In addition to the grand architecture, focus on smaller details like carvings, textures, and patterns. These shots can add depth and variety to your photo collection.

Consider a Drone with Permission: Drone photography is sometimes allowed in Petra, but you need to obtain permission beforehand. Make sure to check the local regulations and follow all guidelines to ensure a safe and respectful experience.

Petra is an awe-inspiring destination that offers endless opportunities for exploration and photography. With these tips, you'll be well-equipped to make the most of your visit and capture unforgettable memories. Enjoy your journey to the "Rose City"!

#petrajordan #tipsphotography #travelling

#jordan #petra #bysumex #photo #world #travieling

[samyakeyecare01]

Worried about your eyes in the scorching summer heat? Here's how you can keep them cool and healthy

We all want to get into better shape and improve our health especially when the weather gets hot and days get longer. You will be taking extra care of your skin and keeping yourself hydrated in the summer season. It is also important to take care of eye and vision health when you enjoy the summer. The summer heat also comes with harmful UV rays that your eyes need to be protected from. In the hot weather, keeping your eyes cool is not enough, but you should follow summer eye care tips and take a break from exposure to sunlight and screen light.

In addition to following a healthy diet or reducing light exposure, there are some external measures to take in order to protect your eyes. Here are five health tips in summer to keep your eyes protected:

Use UV Protective Sunglasses and Sun Hat

The UV rays in the light reflecting from the surface like water and snow cause photokeratitis or photo conjunctivitis. The eyes getting exposed to UV rays continuous, especially UVB rays can result in conditions such as pterygium, which is a non-cancerous growth over the cornea, cataracts and skin cancer on the eyelids. UV protective sunglasses is one of the effective eye care tips for preventing exposure to harmful UV rays when you are outdoors under the sun.  It is important to always buy sunglasses that provide 100% UV protection. Sunglasses that are not 100% UV protective can lead to even more harmful problems than protecting your eyes. It is also recommended to wear sports sunglasses especially when the weather is overcast or cloudy so that it will prevent UV rays. Wearing a sports sunglass can also help protect you from not being deceived by a cloudy or overcast day.

Wearing a sun hat or visor gives you extra protection from the rays of the sun. Wearing a hat in addition to sunglasses helps minimize the risk of eye diseases like Basal Cell Carcinoma, which is a type of skin cancer that affects the eyelids due to overexposure to UV rays. Parts of the eyes that are frequently exposed to the sunlight such as the lower eyelids, corner of the eye or under the eyebrows are commonly affected with Basal Cell Carcinoma. Wearing a sun hat with at least 3 inches wide brim will help prevent eye diseases caused by overexposure to sunlight.

Avoid midday sun

Exposure to sunlight between 10 am and 3 pm should be avoided whenever possible as the sun is at its peak and the UV rays will be at the maximum at this time. You should wear polarized lenses when driving or if you are cycling, especially during this peak time, as it can help reduce the glare. 

Stay hydrated

Dehydration is one of the serious problems that can affect your eyes during the summer. Dehydration can also block your eyes from producing tears, which leads to dry eye symptoms and other severe eye problems. One of the frequently suggested eyes health tips is to drink adequate water to keep the eyes and skin hydrated and protected. As the weather gets hot, you need good air conditioning when staying indoors. It is also important to avoid the direct flow of air to the eyes to keep the eyes hydrated and avoid dry eyes.

Don't Let Those Tears Dry

In this summer heat, you should ensure that your eye’s surface is prevented from drying out and avoid dry eyes. The tear film of the eyes should be protected from the hot and dry environment by wearing wrap-around glasses that blocks wind from the eye’s surface. Preservative-free artificial tears are also recommended to keep the eyes moist and refreshed.

Protect Eyes from Contact with Skincare Products

We will be using many skincare products like moisturizers and sunscreen lotions to protect our skin from the summer heat. While applying these products you should try to avoid any contact with the eyes as that may cause eye irritation. Proper eye care is essential during summer so you should properly wash your hands with clear water in case your eyes get in contact with skincare products.

Paediatric Eye Specialist, Dr Shalini Jain says that effective eye care is important during summer to prevent common eye infections and disorders. Dr Shalini Jain’s Samyak Eye Care Clinic is the best eye hospital near me providing specialised eye care. As the summer heat has finally set in, it is important to ensure essential protection to your eyes from UV exposure and other dangers of which you may not be aware. The health of your eyes is one of the most important organs of the body that requires special care during the scorching summer heat. It is important to take proper care during the hot weather as it can cause serious eye problems like red-eye, infections, migraines and conjunctivitis.

#eye checkup #Best Eye Clinic in Ghaziabad #eye care #Eye checkup near me in Vaishali #best eye hospital in ghaziabad #health

[sunshine-suggestions]

Go sit in the sun, my sunflowers!

Open a window.

Sit at the park.

Do your work/class outside (if youre allowed).

The sun works miracles

She’s like a big hug

#sunspeaks #but also wear sunscreen! especially if its midday! #and bring/drink water <333 #positivity #positive suggestions #suggestions #positive #self care #self care suggestions

[merrybrides]

6 Summer Wedding Planning Dos and Don'ts

There's nothing more idyllic than a summer wedding. Between the warm weather and the late sunset, we can't think of many reasons not to host your nuptials at a sun-soaked outdoor venue. But don't forget—when it comes to heat, UV rays and insects, you need to be a little extra mindful of protecting your guests from the elements. Read these essential dos and don'ts to make planning and enjoying your summer wedding as easy, breezy as possible.

1. Do provide heat relief.

No matter how much you love the sun, your guests will appreciate a few ways to escape the heat. Make sure an outdoor venue offers some form of shade or air-conditioning (tent rentals can include portable air-conditioning systems). Prevent guests from overheating during the ceremony and have an usher pass out small ice-cold hand towels across the rows before it starts. Scatter decorative ice buckets or baskets filled with bottles of water near the ceremony site—and once the dancing begins, place water in close proximity to the action. And don't forget your vendors: Set up an area where they can grab cold refreshments as well.

2. Don't forgo save-the-dates.

Summer is prime vacation time, especially when it comes to families with school-age kids. Send an announcement in advance (we always recommend sending them at least six to eight months before your wedding) so everyone can mark your wedding on their calendars early and plan accordingly.

3. Do serve lighter fare.

Heavy food and heat don't mix. Choose a seasonal menu that includes grilled entrées and local, fresh produce. Gazpacho shooters and grilled fruit skewers make tempting appetizers, and for dessert, consider fruit pies or tarts in lieu of (or in addition to) cake. Frozen cocktails (mint, cucumber or watermelon are popular flavors) or even ice pops (use the sticks that catch drips) can be festive touches too.

4. Don't begin your outdoor wedding midday.

With the sun at its strongest, sweltering guests won't be in the mood to party. Shoot for a late afternoon or early evening start time. The ideal plan: Schedule dinner for sunset (provided the sun isn't setting too late on your date), then work the rest of the event around that timing. This way you'll also guarantee the ideal lighting for photos.

5. Do wear cool, breathable attire.

You should feel comfortable and confident—not stifling and sticky. For brides, choose a wedding dress made of light fabric that breathes, such as silk. You could also opt for a shorter skirt if you're feeling modern and adventurous. If you can't resist the heavy traditional ball gown, wear it during the ceremony, then change into a lightweight sheath or cocktail dress for dancing. Grooms will look dapper in a fair-toned suit (think: light gray or beige), a crisp linen suit or, for the ultimate beach-casual look, khakis and a button-down.

6. Don't forget sun and bug protection.

Sunburn can give the term "blushing bride" a whole new meaning. Prior to getting dressed, the couple and attendants should apply sunscreen to any exposed skin. Consider wearing a moisturizer and foundation or powder that contains SPF (just give it a test-drive for allergies weeks beforehand, either on your own or with your makeup artist). In the guest bathroom, include a basket with sunblock wipes as well as bug spray (which should also be available at the ceremony site).

#summer wedding #wedding planning #destination weddings

[kpophours]

Summer Time

➵ The Boyz: Kevin x fem. reader / one shot, summer trip AU, college AU / fluff

➵ warnings: none

➵ word count: 2.6k

Gentle wind sweeps over you, and almost immediately, goosebumps rise all over your body. You just smile contently, and turn your head towards the sky, inhaling deeply and enjoying the soft sound of the waves. You taste the salt of the ocean on your lips when your tongue darts out to wet them. It’s already quite warm for late Spring, so you’re barefooted, able to bury your toes in the cool sand underneath your feet. You had been surprised yet pleased when Kevin had asked you to join him and some of his friends on a day trip to the beach, and being here now, you’re more than happy he did. 

The day has been great so far - filled with lots of fun, laughter and sunshine, even though you were sadly unable to go swimming, the sea still being too cold to do so. So instead, you had resorted to basking in the sun, playing beach volleyball and building sand castles. Together with Jacob, you had spent almost an hour under the blindingly bright midday sun, searching for pretty seashells to take back to your dorm as a small souvenir. That was, until you had been interrupted by Younghoon’s horrified high-pitched screech when a seagull had suddenly decided to chase him. The tall boy had sprinted up and down the beach, trying to shake off the bird, and making you laugh until your belly hurt - thankfully, the seagull had finally decided to let him be, and simply flown off into the sky again.

Now that the sun has slowly begun to set, you’re all searching for driftwood, wanting to build a bonfire and to make some s’mores, something you’ve been really looking forward to. Kevin walks a few feet ahead of you, wearing a ridiculously big straw hat - which he still somehow makes work though -, and bending over from time to time to pick up another piece of driftwood, all while humming a soft, familiar tune under his breath. You can’t help but smile when you listen to his voice, and close your eyes for a few seconds while continuing to walk. When you open your eyes again, you squeal - Kevin has come to a sudden halt, and is now standing directly in front of you, his dark eyes softly boring into yours. He giggles at your surprised expression and playfully pinches your cheek. “Never walk with your eyes closed, silly. Knowing you, you’ll just stumble and probably hurt yourself.”, he says affectionately, and you blush and roll your eyes at him, but nod nevertheless. He is right, after all. “Can you take this back to the others? I’ll search for some more and will join you guys shortly.”, he then asks, and, after you nod again, drops some pieces of driftwood into your arms. You stagger under the weight, but give him a soft smile. He returns it, gives you a mock salute, and continues to tramp towards some sand dunes not too far away. You just sigh and turn around to walk back towards your little camp, joining the small group of Kevin’s friends again. 

“Oh here, let me help you.”, Juyeon offers the second he spots you staggering towards him, and you thank him when he takes the driftwood out of your arms. “Y/N, come join me!”, Marie, Juyeon’s girlfriend, says, waving at you. You smile  and fall down beside her, stretching your legs out in front of you and wiggling your toes. She smiles as well, and hands you a bottle of water. “You should drink something, you’ve been in the sun all day. I hope you put on enough sunscreen this morning!”, she says, and you chuckle. “Thanks, mom.”, you just say playfully, but her worried words actually warm your heart. You take the bottle from her, and she grins at you, before turning around to watch Juyeon stacking the driftwood, a dreamy expression crossing her face. Without wanting to, your eyes wander towards Kevin, who’s currently trying to climb one of the sand dunes, but almost failing to do so as the soft sand continues to slip away under his feet, making it almost impossible to walk on. You press your lips into a tight line to stifle a giggle, and jump when Marie suddenly pokes your side. “You like him, don’t you?”, she whispers, low enough so no one except you can hear it, and you shoot her a surprised look. Her face is open and inviting, eyes kind, but you just shrug, averting your eyes and taking some sand into your left hand, letting it run through your fingers - you don’t really like talking about your feelings, especially not with someone you’ve only just met. “He likes you too.”, Marie just says, and you whip your head around to face her again. She just winks at you and leans back on her elbows, closing her eyes and inhaling deeply. “What makes you say that?”, you finally ask, and she chuckles. “I’ve known Kevin for a long time now. He’s never asked a girl to join one of our trips before, because he’s usually too shy to do so. That can only mean you are someone special to him.” You don’t answer and simply look back to watch Kevin, who has finally managed to climb up the sand dune and is now busy picking up some more driftwood. You gnaw on your lower lip, thinking about what Marie just said. 

You and Kevin have gotten to know each other thanks to a shared class, both of you being enrolled at the same college. For some reason, he had chosen to sit beside you on the first day of said class, striking up a conversation and complimenting some of your doodles he had seen you draw into your notebook, showing you some of his own in return. Even on that first day, you had already noticed that talking to him was just... easy. And by now, you can’t deny that your heart always skips a beat when you see his small smile or hear his soft giggle. You’re also definitely thinking way too much about how it would feel like to run your fingers through his soft looking, dark hair. You truly like him and enjoy his company, and all his friends have been very nice and welcoming today too. But you yourself are too shy to say anything about this to him - you’re not brave enough to make the first move. Knowing Kevin though, he’s probably never going to make the first move either... You shake your head at that thought, sigh and empty your bottle of water, leaning back on your elbows and closing your eyes as well. 

You must have nodded off, because the next thing you know is someone softly chuckling beside you, brushing a few strands of hair out of your face. You scrunch up your nose and slowly open your eyes, blinking a few times until Kevin comes into focus, sitting cross legged beside you and looking at you, amusement written all over his face. He grins when he sees your sleepy expression, and shakes his head in mock disappointment. “Unbelievable - everyone is working so hard for the bonfire and what are you doing? Taking a nap!”, he jokes, and you just stick out your tongue at him, before standing up to stretch and brush the sand off your clothes. Kevin jumps up as well, helping you get rid of the sand on the back of your shirt, his hand lingering a bit longer on the small of your back than necessary. You feel your whole body heat up under his touch, and quickly clear your throat, feeling a bit awkward, but giving your friend a shy smile nevertheless, which he immediately returns. He seems to be wanting to say something to you, but before he can do so, he gets interrupted by Hyunjae: “Does anyone know how to build a fire?” Everyone looks at one another, expression clueless and questioning, until you chuckle. “I can try, I was a scout once.”, you offer, deciding not to tell them that your scouting experience was not only very brief, but also quite some time ago. 

You begin to build a cone-like structure with some small pieces of driftwood, Kevin standing beside you looking quite impressed by your skills while Hyunjae just observes you critically. “First of all, we need to use the smallest pieces of wood as kindling, then we can slowly add some bigger pieces to fuel the flames and afterwards, we can finally use the big logs you guys found.”, you explain after you’ve finished stacking the smaller pieces, taking the matches from Hyunjae and lighting one, carefully holding it to the kindling and patiently waiting for it to catch fire. Afterwards, you do exactly what you’ve just told the others, and soon, the bonfire is burning bright and high. “Our fiery queen.”, Jacob says, shooting you an angelic smile and giving you a high five, while Younghoon just stares at the flames, his big puppy eyes wide and round while his mouth hangs slightly open. “Bear Grylls is shaking right now.”, Kevin murmurs, and you just grin and playfully roll your eyes at him. 

Suddenly, he slips his hand into yours to pull you with him towards some of the pillows Marie has placed on the ground around the fire pit to make sitting on the ground a bit more comfortable. As soon as you’ve sat down, Kevin lets go of your hand again, finally taking off his ridiculous straw hat and beginning to fiddle with it, probably trying to keep his hands busy. You’re both silent, but it’s a very comfortable silence, you don’t really feel the need to make conversation right now. Jacob has begun to strum his guitar and is playing a soft tune, while the others are talking in low voices. Juyeon and Marie are laying on their backs, staring into the sky - observing how its colors slowly shift from hues of purple and red to soft blues -, their hands intertwined, sharing secret smiles and giggles. Younghoon and Hyunjae are deep in conversation, the latter one’s loud laugh piercing the quiet atmosphere from time to time. You can’t help but smile while you observe the others, curling your toes into the cool sand. 

“I- uhm, I just wanted to thank you for coming today, I truly had a great time with you.”, Kevin suddenly says, and you whip your head around to look at him. His eyes are trained on the straw hat in his hands, as if he’s afraid to look at you. Your lips twitch and you tilt your head to one side. “I’m glad you asked me to come. It was a fun day, your friends are really nice.”, you answer softly, and he finally looks up, locking eyes with you and giving you a relieved smile. “I’m happy you think so. I know meeting lots of new people can be a bit overwhelming sometimes, especially if you’re not really much of an extrovert.”, he says, and you nod in agreement, tucking your legs up to your chest and resting your chin on your knees. “Why did you ask me to come with you, by the way? I’ve been wondering, we only share one class and haven’t really hung out outside of it yet, and we only really talk via text…”, you drift off, biting your lower lip, and look at Kevin in anticipation. His gaze darts from you to the bonfire and back again, the flames softly illuminating his face. “I- uhm... I just… well, I think you are really… nice.”, he says, scratching his ear and ducking his head. You suppress a smile and raise both eyebrows. “I am nice?”, you can’t help but chuckle, and he laughs, a tad embarrassed by his own lame answer. “Well, I just… I like you. Every time we talk, I really enjoy it - you’re fun to talk to. So, I just wanted to get to know you better, I guess.”, he finally explains, apparently feeling a bit bolder now, and shrugs. You avert your eyes, a shy yet pleased smile gracing your lips. “I like you too.”, you mumble, and duck your head when you see a smile bloom on his face at your words. There’s the lightest of touches on your hand, and suddenly, Kevin intertwines his fingers with yours again. You look up, surprise written all over your face, and he gives you a soft smile which you return. “You want to take a little stroll?”, he asks, voice low, and you nod, letting yourself be pulled to your feet by him, your hand still securely held in his. The others don’t say anything, but you can feel their eyes following your every step - you decide to just ignore them for now. 

Dusk has fully settled in by now and night is falling, the first stars already lazily twinkling down at you. Kevin gently swings your intertwined hands between your bodies and you grin, following him towards where the sea meets the land. The soft sound of the waves drowns out the sound of Jacob’s guitar as well as the laughter of the others, and it feels like you’re truly alone right now. Your heart begins to speed up, hammering fast inside your chest, and you feel your hands get clammy. You jump and yelp when one of the waves suddenly comes close enough to lap at your naked feet, the coolness of the water making you shiver. Kevin breaks into loud laughter at your shocked expression, and you shove him playfully. He loses his balance, falling onto his back and pulling you down with him. You land in a pile of scrambling arms and legs, giggling uncontrollably until suddenly, Kevin’s lips are on yours. 

You inhale sharply, before you melt against him. He wraps his arms around your back to pull you even closer, while you push both hands into his dark hair - it feels just as silky as you’ve always imagined. After a few seconds, you pull back to catch your breath, staring down at Kevin, who’s looking at you with soft, dark eyes and a happy expression on his face. You break into a smile and nuzzle his nose, and he pulls you even closer, playfully kissing both your cheeks and nose before nipping on your lower lip. “I guess that’s one way of getting to know me better.”, you finally mumble, and he chuckles, pushing some of your hair back behind your left ear and nodding in agreement. “Absolutely. It might even be my favorite way, actually.” You can’t help but grin at his cheekiness, before diving in for another kiss. He just smiles against your lips and hums appreciatively. 

Suddenly, there’s a yell coming from the bonfire: “Y/N, KEVIN, WE’RE MAKING S’MORES NOW! ARE YOU COMING OR SHOULD WE LEAVE YOU ALONE AND EAT ALL THE S’MORES WITHOUT YOU?” Before either of you can answer, there’s a slapping sound followed by a yelp, and a second later, Maria yells: “DON’T WORRY, HYUN IS JUST BEING STUPID, AS ALWAYS! WE WON’T EAT EVERYTHING, SO DON’T WORRY! JUST TAKE YOUR TIME AND COME BACK... WHENEVER!” 

Kevin and you freeze for a few seconds, before you both break into loud laughter. You bury your face into his neck and he chuckles, one of his hands rubbing gentle circles against the small of your back. “Let’s stay here a little longer, before we join the others again.”, he murmurs, and you just nod in agreement, deeply inhaling the salty night air and Kevin’s unique scent. 

For now, you’re just happy to be in his arms and to bask in the warmth of his body - the s’mores can definitely wait a bit longer. 

[masterlist] | [requests] 

#kwritersworldnet #tbz kevin fanfic #tbz kevin fanfiction #tbz kevin one shot #tbz kevin x reader #tbz kevin fluff #tbz kevin imagine #tbz kevin scenario #the boyz kevin fanfic #the boyz kevin fanfiction #the boyz kevin scenario #the boyz kevin imagine #the boyz kevin fluff #the boyz imagine #the boyz scenarios #tbz scenario #the boyz fanfic #the boyz fanfiction #the boyz fluff #deobis #the boyz #tbz #the boyz kevin scenarios #the boyz kevin imagines #tbz kevin scenarios #tbz kevin imagines #the boyz kevin #tbz kevin #kevin moon

[wp-yahoo-style-1042-yahoopa-blog]

Summer beauty products under $20 you can score at Walmart

Yahoo Lifestyle’s shopping team is committed to finding you the best products at the best prices. We may receive a share from purchases made via links on this page.

Summertime calls for a makeover of your makeup bag, and Walmart has warm-weather beauty products that are super affordable. (Photo: Getty)

With summer practically on the tip of our tongues now, it’s safe to say it’s time to upgrade our beauty stashes. So go ahead and stow away your fall and winter staples, because summer is nigh and you’re going to need (OK, want) some stellar new products to get you through the season.

Wondering how you’re supposed to afford a whole new arsenal? Well, thanks to Walmart’s extensive beauty selection, you don’t have to worry about spending a fortune because it’s all so affordable. Believe it or not, the retail giant is home to a sea of skin, hair and makeup saviors, many of which are wallet-friendly and even rival the expensive brands on the market.

Curious to know which summer beauty products you can snag from Walmart for under $20? We’ve got you covered — simply keep on scrolling.

CeraVe Hydrating Face Sunscreen SPF 50 (Photo: CeraVe)

Shop it: CeraVe Hydrating Face Sunscreen SPF 50, $14, walmart.com

Sun protection is non-negotiable no matter what season it is, but it’s especially crucial to be coating your skin in SPF when you’ll be spending more time outside. This foolproof sunscreen from dermatologist-favorite brand CeraVe is ultra-lightweight and moisturizing with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, panthenol and niacinamide. And, while it’s most ideal for dry complexions, it’s truly suitable for all skin types, which explains why it’s such a top-seller.

Batiste Tropical Dry Shampoo (Photo: Batiste)

Shop it: Batiste Tropical Dry Shampoo, $3, walmart.com

With all the sweating we do during the warm (see: scorching) months, having a solid dry shampoo on hand is essential. This one by Batiste not only sops up oil in seconds without leaving any awkward residue behind, but smells like a vacation to Bora Bora too. With delicious notes of coconut, jasmine and peach, you’ll find yourself wanting to reapply several times a day.

Essie Nail Polish Nudes in Let It Glow (Photo: Essie)

Shop it: Essie Nail Polish Nudes in Let It Glow, $7, walmart.com

We’ve found your new favorite nail color for summer. This stunning champagne-pink shade is universally flattering, works with just about any outfit and looks even more amazing when the sun hits it. What more could you ask for in a nail lacquer?

L'Oreal Paris Voluminous Lash Paradise Washable Mascara (Photo: L'Oreal Paris)

Shop it: L'Oreal Paris Voluminous Lash Paradise Washable Mascara, $6, walmart.com

This best-selling mascara has more than 1,000 rave reviews and it only costs eight bucks. People love it so much because it gives you high-voltage volume and a flirty, feathery lash look that lasts all day without smudging or flaking. Even sweat and hours in the sun don’t stand a chance against this dynamite formula.

Neutrogena Glow On Liquid Face Highlighter Moonlight Galaxy (Photo: Neutrogena)

Shop it: Neutrogena Glow On Liquid Face Highlighter Moonlight Galaxy, $7, walmart.com

Get your glowy skin game on lockdown for summer with this gorgeous liquid highlighter from Neutrogena. Wear it underneath foundation, on its own or where the sun naturally hits for an otherworldly radiance that won’t go unnoticed. It also comes in two summer-perfect hues: a deep warm bronze and an iridescent champagne shade that looks like the sun kissed your skin.

e.l.f. Cosmetics ELF+ Dewy Coconut Refreshing Mist (Photo: e.l.f. Cosmetics)

Shop it: e.l.f. Cosmetics ELF+ Dewy Coconut Refreshing Mist, $8, walmart.com

Soothe dry, dull or distressed skin with this ultra-hydrating facial spray, which contains a calming blend of coconut water, hyaluronic acid and argan oil, among other complexion-cooling ingredients. Spritz it on post-cleanse, on top of makeup or simply when you need a midday pick-me-up. Its adorable packaging is just the cherry on top.

SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl & Shine Shampoo (Photo: SheaMoisture)

Shop it: SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl & Shine Shampoo, $10, walmart.com

Sure, this organic shampoo might be especially excellent at defining curls, but it also works wonders on just about every other hair type too. Jam-packed with shine-enhancing ingredients like coconut and neem oils, silk protein and hibiscus flower extract, hair is left looking more luminous and healthy after just one use. Its tranquil tropical fragrance is just another reason we love it.

Derma E Purifying Daily Detox Scrub (Photo: Derma E)

Shop it: Derma E Purifying Daily Detox Scrub, $10, walmart.com

Give your skin a kickstart every day this summer with this gentle scrub from Derma E, which features seaweed, activated charcoal, apricot seed powder and antioxidant-rich green tea for the ultimate skin-rejuvenating effect. This exfoliator is unique in that is actually soothes skin while resurfacing it, so you never have to worry about irritation afterward. That, and it smells delicious sans artificial fragrances too.

SGX NYC The Bodyguard Thermal Protective Texture Spray (Photo: SGX NYC)

Shop it: SGX NYC The Bodyguard Thermal Protective Texture Spray, $7, walmart.com

If you must use heat on your hair this summer, you better make sure you’re not without a great heat protective spray. This one not only provides superior protection from all your favorite hot tools but acts as a humidity shield too. On top of that, it adds a little extra volume and shine thanks to sea botanical extracts.

Jergens Natural Glow Instant Sun Deep Bronze Sunless Tanning Mousse (Photo: Jergens)

Shop it: Jergens Natural Glow Instant Sun Deep Bronze Sunless Tanning Mousse, $12, walmart.com

Looking for a way to enhance your skin without subjecting it to the sun’s harmful UV rays? This fast-acting self-tanner from Jergens is the way to go. Its airy texture feels like nothing on the skin and dries in seconds, and it provides long-lasting color instantly rather than having to wait around for six hours before seeing a glow. It’s no wonder it has nearly 1,000 amazing reviews.

Read more on Yahoo Lifestyle:

The best mascaras for longer, thicker eyelashes – starting at $7

The $18 leave-in conditioner Hailey Baldwin swears by

1 bottle of this wildly popular anti-aging serum is sold every 60 seconds: Reviewers and experts explain why

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#makeup #_revsp:wp.yahoo.style.us #summer beauty products #beauty #skin care #_uuid:993a496b-48f9-3be0-b993-0d8c57484aaf #hair care #_author:Kaleigh Fasanella #summer #beauty products #_lmsid:a0Vd000000AE7lXEAT

[neorabusiness]

5 Things Women with great skin do every day

One could take a good look at all the models or actresses on TV or in magazines and reach a simple conclusion: they all have great skin. Picture editing could be discussed, but one thing is definitely true and that’s the fact that all those women have skin care habits they strictly respect. It’s not all about famous people either - we have friends with seemingly perfect complexions too. In order to look beautiful and keep yourself healthy as well, we think it's time to learn a few skin care protection facts and tips and start applying this knowledge soon.

Why You Need to Protect Your Skin

Let’s begin with a clear image of the factors which represent dangers, however small, to your skin’s well-being. For example, pollution doesn’t only affect plants and wildlife, it increases health risks for us humans too. Since our discussion today is focused on skin, let us say that all the dust and chemicals do no good to the acne and tissue dryness situation.

Actually, it’s safe to say that the sun, which turns us into such happy creatures on most days, is often an enemy towards our skin. That’s because of its UV rays, especially during midday, when they are at higher levels. Those cause, alongside wrinkles, pigmentation spots, discoloration, but also moles and sometimes medical conditions such as growths and cancer.

Our lifestyle doesn’t only reflect on the health of our internal organs, but on this main external one too. A bad diet, filled with processed fats and sugars, excessive in salt, will cause a pimple invasion and quicker aging sings. Also, think again whenever you smoke or drink alcohol too often as both these habits increase dehydration and therefore skin dryness and wrinkle development.

Applying all sorts of products and forgetting to remove them isn’t beneficial either. We mean that makeup you might not always wash off. Pores can clog as a result of combining those beauty products with sweat and external pollutants. Hello, acne, our old friend!

As you might know, stress can do permanent damage to our mental health and career. But it can also affect your looks thanks to the excessive hormones it makes your body produce. Those could lead to acne, but also eczema. Not far from this is sleep deprivation. The tissue is supposed to repair itself throughout the night and, when it doesn’t get the chance, you’ll end up with a tired look and some extra wrinkles.

5 Ways to Take Care of Your Skin

1.    The most basic part of skin care protection is applying sunscreen every single day when you intend to spend a lot of time outside. UV rays can be damaging even during winter. Choose a product with an SPF above 30 and apply it every few hours. If possible, keep to the shade and wear clothes that cover up more skin.

2.    Cleanse every day, preferably twice. In the morning, when pillow bacteria and sweat have mixed on your face, and in the evening, to clean up everything that ended up on your skin during the day. It should be a gentle product, such as the Neora Face Wash. Don’t scrub, give the face a gentle massage and pat it dry. Also, when it comes to shower temperatures, warm water is your friend, hot isn’t.

3.    Pay attention to your overall health. If you notice any suspicious modifications in your skin aspect, including sudden rashes or moles of a strange color, consult a dermatologist. Don’t pick on them.

4.    Meanwhile, drink plenty of water to keep hydrated and refill with antioxidants from beneficial sources, such as vegetables, fruits, and fish. Build a sleep schedule and try sticking to it as much as possible. Get rid of stress with regular exercise.

5.    Do research on skin care products and pick some for yourself. Start with a moisturizer, it helps keep skin smooth, hydrated, free of fine lines. Don’t be afraid of anti-aging products. It’s better to start using them earlier on, than realizing it might be too late. Neora has a couple of creams, meant for night and day use, based on natural products, which will help you get started on this skin care journey.

Great skin really isn’t impossible to have. The only thing it needs is attention and proper care, using just a few simple, preferably natural products. Results will show, have patience and be kind to your body.

#neora #skincare #neora products #dark skin #homebusiness #neora company

[viralcontent01]

Skin Lightening Tips to Help You Achieve Fair Skin

Skin lightening has become popular nowadays especially with women who have dark skin tone. Although women who have naturally lighter skin are also wanting to have it tanned, many may also be looking for ways to make their skin free from hyperpigmentation, blemishes, dark spots and melisma. Here are skin lightening tips to that you might useful in your quest for a fairer complexion.

- Probably one of the best skin lightening tips you can get is to go for the natural solutions. Before you get tempted by applying chemicals on your face, you can actually find some home remedies and natural ways to lighten your skin. Of course, they are a lot safer that those chemically prepared lightening products that may be using harsh ingredients.

- A squeeze of lemon may do wonders in your dark spots, dark underarms and hyperpigmentation. Lemon juice is one popular and natural way to lighten your complexion and can give you results in a short time. Freshly squeezed lemon is recommended or better results, and you may apply it every day to get faster results. Don't forget to moisturize after your application to make your skin smoother too. Aside from its skin lightening effects, lemon juice is also a great antioxidant. Indeed, lemon juice has been one of the beauty secrets used by many women for years. However, it is important not to expose your skin to the sun when you apply lemon juice as it may make your skin too sensitive. Moisturize too to avoid dryness after applying lemon juice.

- Cucumber juice is also one of nature's way to help you lighten your skin. It is usually combined with a few drops of fresh lemon juice and applied to the dark spots to even the coloring.

- A pinch of sandalwood and almond powder is also effective in lightening dark spots and blemishes especially if applied daily.

- Raw potato juice is also a good remedy to lighten your tan. You can also rub fresh potato peel on the darkened skin to help lighten it.

- Applying a mask of papaya is also a good way to exfoliate the skin and lighten it. The natural enzyme in papaya helps renew it and make it smoother. In fact, papaya is a common ingredient in many beauty and lightening or whitening products.

- Drink plenty of water every day. This is one of the simplest skin lightening tips to help you avoid blemishes, melisma and other dark spots. Aside from hydrating your skin, it also eliminates toxins in your body that may lead to the appearance of darks spots, blemishes and other problems. This will also help in making you acne-free.

- Wear sunscreen. The sun can be harmful to your skin and is one of the major causes of darkening, uneven tone, and dark spots. Protect your skin by wearing sunscreen when you go outdoors, especially during midday. You can also wear sunglasses to protect the areas around your eyes from the darkening effects of the sun.

You can start with these skin lightening tips to help prevent blemishes and dark spots and make sure too that you also have a healthy diet to achieve fairer skin.

  By Carolyn Anderson  

https://www.icandybellaink.com

[catherindonald]

My Healthy Summer Skincare Routine & DIY Recipes (And A Giveaway)

While it’s not officially summer yet, sunny days are here in East Tennessee, and that means it’s time for me to switch out my spring skincare routine for a summer one. Now, for the most part, my goal of nourishing my skin remains the same all year round, but this year, I have a different goal when it comes to my skin health. This summer, while I will still be focused on nourishing my body and skin, I would like to focus on evening my skin tone out a bit.

In the last year or so, I have noticed that my cheeks look pinker than normal when I’m not wearing makeup. I’ve also noticed that I’m breaking out a bit more on my checks which is very unusual for me. I don’t think what I’m experiencing is rosacea, although that is common at my age. Instead, I think it’s my body telling me my liver is still sluggish. 

As I’ve learned more about natural health and herbalism, I’ve learned that the liver is often the root cause of skin issues—signaling to us that it’s not functioning at peak capacity. While improving one’s liver health will look different for everyone, for me, I know some things I need to focus on. I shared my plans for “liver spring cleaning” earlier this year, and while I’m continuing to keep up with most of the things I wrote about in that post (which have improved most of the symptoms I was dealing with before), there are some habits I’ve gotten lax with (like my morning celery juice!) that I need to incorporate back into my routine.

When it comes to summer skincare and evening my skin tone, there are a few things I’ll be focusing on to help get the job done.

My Summer Skincare Routine

In addition to a clean diet, lots of fluids, and the liver supportive techniques mentioned in the post above, below are the daily, weekly, and monthly skin care things I’ll be trying this summer to see if it helps even my skin tone.

Some of these things can be made at home but most can be purchased. I may not make each of these on my own, but instead, purchase them premade. We’ll have to see how much time I have. Nonetheless, I want to include the DIY recipes I will use here just in case I find myself with time to make them!

When it comes to purchasing these products, I don’t really have any favorite skin care brands at the moment that I would recommend. I’m in the process of trying some new products out. I’ll definitely update this post with links to products you can purchase as I come across companies I like.

Daily: Morning

Cleansing face every morning

Follow up with a rose hydrosol as a toner

Applying a vitamin C serum to my face afterward (DIY here)

Putting sunscreen on my face before going out in the sun (or wearing a hat)

Applying a moisturizing cream before putting makeup on (on days I put makeup on)

Using makeup with built-in mineral sunscreen (this is usually in the form of titanium and/or zinc oxide)

Daily: Midday

Citrus sugar scrub during a post-workout shower

Retinol body lotion

Daily: Nightly

Cleansing face at night

Applying a hyaluronic acid serum (DIY here)

Follow up with a retinol face and eye cream (DIY here)

Weekly

Milk powder face mask

Microdermabrasion floral face scrub

Occasionally

Microdermabrasion (probably every 6-8 weeks)

Skin Care DIYs For Summer

Below are some additional DIY recipes I’ll be using in my summer skincare routine. 

1. Homemade Rose Hydrosol

Rose, with its anti-inflammatory properties, makes a great toner for the skin when used as a hydrosol. Not only that, but it’s soothing to the mind and emotions as well!

Ingredients:

a large pot (I use my stainless steel stock pot)

trivet (a heat-stable bowl, large rock, or brick will work too)

bowl

10 ounces of fresh rose petals by weight (5-ounces of dried rose)

3 quarts of distilled water

ice (lots of ice!)

gallon-sized Ziplock bags

Directions:

Add water and rose petals to your pot. Push herbs away from the center of the pot and place the trivet in the center. Be sure to saturate the herbs (especially if using dried herbs) well. Place your bowl on the trivet in the center of the pot. This will be where your finished hydrosol will collect.

Flip the pot lid upside down and put it on the pot. Fill a few gallon-size Ziplock bags with ice, and place one bag on the upside down lid (store extra bags in the freezer until needed). Turn the heat on medium-high. The heat at the bottom of the pan will cause the water and herbs to heat up, creating steam. When the hot steam hits the cold lid, it will cause the steam to condense on the lid. This condensation is your hydrosol. Because the lid is upside down, the condensation will drip into the bowl inside the pot. When the ice in your Ziplock bag melts, replace it with a new one from the freezer. 

After 20 minutes, you should have a good amount of hydrosol collected in your bowl. Carefully remove the lid and set aside. Carefully remove your bowl and transfer your finished hydrosol to a glass measuring cup or anything that makes it easier to pour. Finally, pour your hydrosol into a jar for storage. Be sure to label and store your jar properly. Homemade hydrosols have a shelf life of 3-4 weeks unrefrigerated and 3 months when refrigerated.

2. Cleopatra’s Milk Powder Face Mask

Legend has it that Cleopatra used to bathe in milk to smoothen and brighten up her skin. This milk powder face mask can help you achieve the same results as milk powder, like milk, is rich in lactic acid. This mask is suitable for all skin types.

Ingredients:

1 tablespoon of milk in powder form (cow or goat)

1 tablespoon of honey

1 tablespoon of lemon juice

Directions:

Mix all the ingredients together in a glass bowl and apply to a clean face. Let sit for 10 minutes and then wash it off with lukewarm water.

3. Citrus Sugar Scrub

I love sugar scrubs as they gently buff away dry, dead skin cells, leaving your skin smooth and glowing. One of the great things about this sugar scrub is that it’s made with steam-distilled essential oils so there’s no risk of phototoxicity while you enjoy the summer sun.

Ingredients:

1 tablespoon of almond flour

1 drop of steam-distilled lemon (Citrus x limon) essential oil

1 1/2 teaspoons sweet almond oil

Directions:

Mix all the ingredients together in a glass bowl and rub into wet skin using circular motions. Rinse off with warm water.

Win Some Natural Skin Care Products Just In Time For Mother’s Day

Because I’m all about focusing on facial care for summer and because Mother’s Day is here, I wanted to do something fun for you by giving away some natural skin care products to help you care for your skin this summer. 

I searched Etsy high and low for a nice little goodie bag of natural skin care products to give away, and I finally came across Crunchy Mama Bear’s travel skin care set. It comes with a facial cleanser, an herbal facial mist, a two-step facial serum, and an eye cream. This giveaway is not in partnership with Crunchy Mama Bear. I will purchase these specifically for the winners of this giveaway. 

This giveaway will run from Sunday, May 12th to Friday, May 17th. Two winners will be chosen at random via Rafflecopter. The winners will be announced right here on the giveaway form on Saturday, May 18th, and they will receive a confirmation email from me as well. If a winner does not respond within 48 hours another winner will be chosen in their place. The giveaway is open to US residents only.

There are several options for entering. Nothing is mandatory so only use entries you feel comfortable with. Entries vary in their value. Some will give you more entries than others! Some entries are 1-time entries and others you can do on a daily basis. Remember, the more entries you have, the better the chance you have of winning!

Good luck, mamas!! I appreciate your presence here, and I wish you all a Happy Mother’s Day!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

The post My Healthy Summer Skincare Routine & DIY Recipes (And A Giveaway) appeared first on Growing Up Herbal.

My Healthy Summer Skincare Routine & DIY Recipes (And A Giveaway) published first on https://marcuskeever.blogspot.com/

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Red skin warning: As summer nears, sun safety takes the spotlight

New Post has been published on https://www.hsnews.us/red-skin-warning-as-summer-nears-sun-safety-takes-the-spotlight/

Red skin warning: As summer nears, sun safety takes the spotlight

Summer is just around the corner.

Well, OK, it doesn’t technically arrive until June 21; but Saturday is the start of Memorial Day Weekend, and around here, that means the unofficial start of summer.

It’s a weekend for memorials and parades, for volunteering in the community and visiting with veterans. It’s also a time for ballgames and barbecues, for pools and parks, for spending hours on the lake and for hiking in the mountains. ‘Tis the season for graduations and graduation parties.

All of which feature one common denominator: Getting out there and having fun in the warm Colorado sun. And with a weekend forecast that calls for hot days and plenty of sunshine, there will be no shortage of opportunities to soak up some rays.

That’s why Dr. Michael Leslie, a dermatologist with Pueblo and Colorado Springs’ Vanguard Skin Specialists has some advice on keeping your skin safe from getting a little too toasted.

“The best thing you can do is cover up with sunscreen and clothing, and avoid the sun during the midday, from 10 a.m. to 2 (p.m.), when the sun is most intense,” Leslie said.

Sun smarts

While magazines and pop culture want us to believe that a golden sun-saturated glow is a sexy sign of summer, skin experts say red skin raises red flags.

The sun’s ultraviolet, or UV, rays can damage your dermis in as little as 15 minutes, according to the Federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The risks can run from premature aging of the skin or painful sunburns to potentially life-threatening cancer.

When we talk about UV light, we’re actually talking about two different spectrums of ultraviolet radiation, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation. UVA is the long-wave spectrum while UVB are the short-wave rays. There has been a good deal of forth and back over the years when it comes to determining which spectrum is more harmful, so current recommendations say to avoid pretty much all UV radiation.

Skin cancer, according to the CDC, is the most-common form of cancer in the U.S. In 2014, the most recent year for which CDC numbers were available, some 76,665 Americans were diagnosed with melanomas of the skin, the most dangerous form of skin cancer, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation.

The Environmental Protection Agency and World Health Organization on Monday listed Colorado’s UV index as a “very high” score of 10, putting it on par with Hawaii and the Gulf Coast and topped only by New Orleans and Puerto Rico.

“With more sun exposure you have increased risks of skin cancer,” Leslie said. “We see a fair amount of that here in Colorado, especially with the number of sunny days we have and the altitude.

“We typically see a few cases of melanoma a week here.”

Michael Leslie

Some people — those with lighter skin, hair and eye tones; with a family or personal history of skin cancer; with a history of sunburns, especially early in life; with a history of indoor tanning; with skin that burns, freckles or becomes painful easily in the sun; and with certain types of moles — are at higher risk than others.

But it is not a discriminatory disease, meaning anyone can get it.

“The most preventable cause of skin cancer is overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) light, either from the sun or from artificial sources like tanning beds,” the CDC website reports.

Playing safe

As Leslie noted, prime sun hours are from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., when the orb is most directly overhead. It’s also the time when weekend warriors are likely to want to be outdoors, working on projects or just having a good time.

If that sounds like you, here are some easy safety tips to reduce your risk.

Wear sunscreen: Probably the simplest way to keep your solar exposure in check is by rubbing on a full-spectrum sunscreen with the power to block both UVA and UVB rays. Leslie said to look for a line with an SPF, or solar-protection factor, of at least 30; the CDC says to invest in a minimum SPF of 15.

“The higher the better, basically,” the doctor said. “You want a sunscreen, usually, with zinc oxide in it, which acts as a physical blocker and has broad-spectrum activity against UVA and UVB.”

Apply a good, solid layer before heading outdoors — the Skin Cancer Foundation suggests shooting for putting on 2 tablespoons of sunscreen at least 30 minutes before heading outdoors — but don’t think one time will do it.

“Typically you want to reapply every two hours while you’re out in the sun,” Leslie said. “Or reapply, if you’re getting out of the water or if you’re sweating a lot.”

Take cover: Sunscreen is a good foundation, but the clothes you wear can also act as a UV blocker, Leslie said.

The CDC recommends wearing clothing items that cover your arms and legs; broad-brimmed hats that can shade your face, neck and ears; and sunglasses that wrap around and protect against both UVA and UVB radiation.

If that sounds sweltering on a 90-plus-degree day, Leslie said certain clothing lines combine both light-weight comfort and full-spectrum protection. He suggested starting your search on line, because you might just be surprised by what you can find.

“There are nice options out there,” he said.

The Skin Cancer Foundation further recommends keeping newborns totally out of the sun, applying sunscreen to kids ages 6 months and up, inspecting your skin daily for symptoms or warning signs and seeing a doctor annually as a preventative measure.

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Risk factors

Skin cancer is not a discriminatory disease, but there are some people who are more likely to develop the condition, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in sunny Atlanta, Ga.

Here are the risk factors associated with higher incidences of the condition:

Light natural skin tones

Family history of skin cancer

A personal history of skin cancer

Exposure to the sun through work and play

A history of sunburns, especially early in life

A history of indoor tanning

Skin that burns, freckles, reddens easily or becomes painful in the sun

Blue or green eyes

Blond or red hair

Certain types and a large number of moles

Warning signs

So, is that mole just a mole, or is it something more insidious? The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention say a change in your skin is the most common sign of early skin cancer. Warning signs could be a new growth, a sore that doesn’t heal or a change in a mole.

Not all skin cancers look the same, so the best defense is to have a doctor check out any alarming developments, said Dr. Michael Leslie, a dermatologist with Pueblo’s Vanguard Skin Specialists.

To help you remember the signs of melanoma, the CDC offers its ABCs:

A is for asymmetrical: Does the mole or spot have an irregular shape with two parts that look very different?

B is for border: Is it irregular or jagged?

C is for color: Is the color uneven?

D is for diameter: Is the mole or spot larger than the size of a pea?

E is for evolving: Has the more or spot changed in the past few weeks or month?

The earlier a melanoma is caught, the easier it is to treat and the more likely a patient is to have a successful recovery, Leslie said. For more information, visit cdc.gov/cancer/skin/ or the Skin Cancer Foundation at skincancer.org. To contact Vanguard Skin Specialists, call 355-1585.

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[nakedconversations1]

Is Your Skin Ready For Summer?

The skin is the largest organ in the body. It is also the first barrier to microorganisms that cause infection. Any break or tear in the skin can introduce bacteria inside the body that may or may not always lead to sickness. Aside from that crucial function of being the body’s first-line of defense, the skin serves an aesthetic purpose too. After all, we see with our eyes and you can easily pass judgment on another person based on what you see on the outside. While beauty may be subjective and is in the eyes of beholder, a healthy-looking and supple skin is hard to achieve in a largely polluted world.

As the weather heats up and summer is fast approaching, people wear less items of clothing to beat the heat. As a result, you end up baring more skin than you are used too. You may have no care in the world about what your skin looked like when it’s all cold outside and you are wrapped from head to toe but it is a different story during summer time when wearing less is more. The question now is this, is your skin ready to welcome the summer season or does it need more pampering than what you are currently giving it now?

Choose the right sun protection

Whenever possible, use hats, sunglasses and light-weight clothing to keep skin covered and out of direct sunlight and its UV rays. Always use sunscreen that is water resistant, broad-spectrum, and has an SPF rating of 15 or higher. When it comes to choosing which sunscreen to apply, it’s recommended to find one that you like and are comfortable applying –- because it’s more likely you will use it regularly. Then simply make it a habit to apply daily.

All hail the sun for all its glory but too much of a good thing can also be bad for you. The sun may be a valuable resource on earth but overexposure to it, especially the midday sun, is harmful to your skin. Aside from hastening aging and leave you looking sunburnt, it also increases your risk of developing melasma and skin cancer.

Heal and repair

If sunburn does occur, a few proper steps can help alleviate the discomfort and promote healing. The skin needs to breathe and release the trapped heat. Take a cool milk bath or apply cold, plain yogurt topically, rinsing off after it dries. Aloe vera products can also soothe inflamed skin, along with damp, cool cloths. Staying hydrated is also important to prevent sun-related headaches and anti-inflammatories, like ibuprofen, can help with the pain and discomfort from red and swollen skin. See a doctor if there is blistering, a fever, chills, or a confused mental state.

(Via: http://www.thesunchronicle.com/features/stories/take-five-summer-skin-care/article_6bf70b3a-4138-5c1b-930b-91f67e3d0b7f.html)

You may have felt all warm and cozy in your woolen sweater and coat, gloves and scarf but you have no choice but to expose more skin during summer if you don’t want to faint from all the heat and humidity around you. In case you do suffer from sunburn during your day out in the beach, make sure you know how to heal and soothe your burning skin, so you no longer have to suffer in silence.

For a lot of us, the official start of summer is looming.

And as expected, our skin will be adjusting with the times. We've waxed poetic time and time again about the importance of year-round sun protection, but make no mistake: your summer skin care routine doesn't start and end with SPF.

From the foods you eat to the temperature of your shower water and the way you cleanse, there are a host of bad habits to rid yourself of before the hottest season arrives. Dove dermatologist, Dr. Mona Gohara, helped us get down to the nitty gritty of each one, so keep reading for the pro-tips you can actually trust. 

Aside from knowing the usual skin care tips, it helps to be privy on things you should avoid doing if you want clear, bright, and healthy skin all summer long.

Hot Showers 

  Even in the middle of a sticky and hot day, nothing feels better than the steam from a hot shower. Unfortunately, that simple pleasure is also a killjoy for healthy skin. 

According to Dr. Gohara, "Taking a hot shower compromises the skin barrier as. Keep it lukewarm to avoid overly irritating or drying the skin." She also advises against soaps that tend to strip the skin of natural oil. 

(Via: http://www.essence.com/beauty/skin/summer-skin-care-tips)

You’ll be surprised to find out that many of your habits are actually doing your skin more harm than good regardless how good they felt. Your skin needs all the loving it can get, so don’t forget to wear some sunscreen before leaving the house. You can’t stop the season from changing. And with climate change and global warming that is now our reality and no longer just a threat, the risk of developing skin diseases is high if you constantly expose yourself under the scorching heat of the summer sun. You can still enjoy summer without subjecting your skin to all sorts of torture if you know what to do and what not.

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Skin Care and Treatments at Every Age

As the years pass, our skin undergoes many structural and biochemical changes.  For example, epidermal cells don’t turnover and exfoliate as easily, the production of collagen and elastic tissue proteins slows, and these proteins also weaken becoming less supportive.  Our oil glands don’t produce as much oil causing our skin to become drier, and our skin doesn’t retain as much moisture as it did when it was younger.  These biochemical and structural changes allow gravity to take its toll and result in signs of skin laxity and aging.  Early signs of aging include the development of fine lines, particularly around the eyes and lips, deepening of expression lines in the forehead and around the mouth, brittle nails, thinning hair, and even bone loss.  The following tips can help you slow the signs of aging at every age.

Any and All Ages

Since sun exposure is the single biggest cause of damage to skin, the most important thing one can do to protect your skin is to reduce sun exposure.  Use sunscreen daily, wear sun protective clothing, and limit time outdoors when the sun is the strongest, typically between 10AM and 2PM.  Chronic sun exposure causes fine and coarse wrinkles with a leathery appearance in addition to brown spots and broken blood vessels.

Treat your skin gently and keep it moisturized and hydrated.  Always use gentle products, avoid harsh ingredients, and don’t scratch, squeeze, or pick at your skin.

Avoid smoking and exposure to tobacco smoke. Smoking decreases blood flow in smaller vessels, thereby damaging connective tissue which leads to loss of skin elasticity and the formation of wrinkles.  Smokers also suffer more damage from sunlight than nonsmokers.

Avoid tanning beds. Ultraviolet radiation from tanning beds can be 10x more powerful than the midday sun!

20s-30s

Prevention is key! In your mid to late twenties, collagen and elastic tissue production starts to slow down, and small signs of skin aging slowly become visible. The following treatments and skin care tips can help slow down the process.

Neuromodulators such as Botox Cosmetic, Dysport and Xeomin are much more popular with patients in their 20s and early 30s.  Younger people do not want to wait for lines to form before they start having neurotoxin treatments.  Dr. Isaac recommends that patients in their 20s and early 30s get treated before the expression lines are etched in the skin and apparent at rest.

Start (and stick with) a quality skin care regimen that includes a retinoid, topical antioxidants, a moisturizer, and, of course, sunscreen.  Dr. Isaac emphasizes that the single most important thing one can do for prevention of fine lines and wrinkles is sun protection.  Use sunscreen daily, even when it is cloudy and during the winter as ultraviolet light penetrates through clouds.  Dr. Isaac prefers broad spectrum sunscreens that contain physical particles like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide as they don’t rely on a chemical reaction to reduce sun damage on the skin. She suggests a daily sunscreen of an SPF30 or greater, and for holidays or more prolonged sun exposure, bump the SPF to 50+ and reapply every two hours. Wear a wide brimmed hat, use lip balm with SPF 30 or greater, and sunglasses with ultraviolet light protection.

Skin doesn’t retain as much moisture and produces less natural oils as it did when it was younger. A good moisturizer soothes dry skin, makes wrinkles less noticeable and allows for better tolerance of topical retinoids. Vitamin A, or retinoids, also increase collagen production and improve cellular turnover and improving skin color. Other vitamins and antioxidants such as vitamins A, C, E, ferulic acid, and Coenzyme Q10 reduce free radical damage and minimize photodamage. Dr. Isaac suggests that you look for these ingredients in serums, lotions or creams.

Laser Hair removal, chemical peels, intense pulsed light (IPL) and procedures that address unwanted hair, skin texture, acne along with acne scarring treatments are extremely popular treatments among men and women in their 20s at MI-Skin Dermatology and Laser Center in Washington DC.

30s-40s

The skin becomes more delicate, with lines on the eyes and forehead common. In addition to normal aging processes, harmful environmental influences are now more noticeable. The cell activity decreases and the barrier layer of the skin becomes more compromised or vulnerable. In other words, the skin reacts to these changes with irritation or allergy and redness. With a coordinated care system including supportive anti-aging products and treatments, light lines can be corrected with ease. Night care is particularly important to promote skin suppleness and regeneration during sleeping hours. In addition to her staples of retinoids, antioxidants and sunscreen, Dr. Isaac starts to implement products that contain peptides and growth factors into one’s skin care regimen during this age.

Botox, Xeomin and Dysport treatments continue to be a mainstay in wrinkle care and further prevention.  Now, Dr. Isaac artfully injects resting lines and improves facial contours by injecting soft tissue fillers such as hyaluronic acids.  Juvéderm, Restylane, Beloterro, Radiesse, Bellafill and Sculptra are tools in her toolbox to fill lines and restore facial volume that occurs during this time. Fillers also have a role in preventing further deterioration of appearance because fillers stimulate the body’s own collagen.

Microneedling and Laser treatments, such as Fraxel, stimulate collagen production, smooth fine lines and improve texture are popular with patients in their 30s and 40s.  IPL and lasers to reduce sun damage, brown spots and redness also are also popular requests.  Rosacea treatments continue to climb in both men and women patients.

45+

The skin becomes thinner and drier slowly. Due to low moisture content in the skin of both men and women, skin loses more elasticity and strength. Wrinkles are now more prominent. There is more significant loss of facial volume, necessitating the use of injectable fillers for youthful restoration. Hormone fluctuations of the menopause make women more prone to blackheads, pimples and texture changes. Hormonal changes also lead to vaginal dryness and “Mommy Makeovers” are popular consultations.  Dr. Isaac urges essential skin care regimens that help rid the skin of dead skin cells, and she prescribes creams that firm and tighten skin. Her prescribed, coordinated skin care systems can make the skin radiate again.

Lasers and Devices that tighten and lift are extremely popular as skin starts to sag due to increased laxity and volume loss.  Ultherapy, Excilis Ultra, Infini Radiofrequency microneedling, to name a few, are regularly recommended at this age.  UltraFemme 360 treatments helps restore vaginal moisture and stress-induced urinary incontinence caused by sneezing, exercise and laughing.  Lasers and devices that improve skin texture and smoothness are implemented frequently.  Dr. Isaac and her team at MI-Skin Dermatology and Laser Center may recommend and use Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) to restore your skin’s youthful appearance.

Dr. Isaac routinely recommends thread lifts, otherwise known as suture suspension, nonsurgical facelifts, during this age. Thread lifts work well for mild to moderate skin laxity, particularly in the jowl area.  The suture material also stimulates collagen production because the thread is made of a material that acts as a foreign substance to the body in order to stimulate collagen growth. Some threads have changes in the surface of the material (barbs, cones or knots) that will catch onto the skin, allowing Dr. Isaac to place the thread, position it into the skin in such a way to cause a long-lasting lifting effect that looks great immediately and over time.

  Botox and other neuromodulators remain as an essential antiaging treatment, although Dr. Isaac now injects them in more anatomic areas including the neck and jawline.

55+

The skin becomes more complex and generally drier. Lines develop into deeper wrinkles, especially around the nose and mouth. The activity of the sebaceous and sweat glands is restricted, so the skin cannot store enough moisture. The care system must now be optimized and maintained well. Anti-aging products with retinoids, vitamin C, sunscreen, hyaluronic acids, growth factors are essential.

Dr. Isaac strategically uses and combines different modalities to deliver her best signature treatments. According to Dr. Isaac, procedures must be used in combination as no single treatment will restore youthful appearance.  Skin will continue to age. Implementing these treatments in a skilled way makes Dr. Isaac’s approach to a patient unique.  She strives to achieve age appropriate, natural looking results in her patients. Artfully injecting Botox and soft tissue fillers in addition to performing state of the art skin resurfacing, skin tightening and lifting procedures separates Dr. Isaac from other physicians.

Schedule a consultation today by visiting www.mi-skin.com or calling [phone].

The post Skin Care and Treatments at Every Age appeared first on Washington DC Dermatologist | MI Skin.

[bladeandblush-blog]

My Sunscreen Cushion Experience ☀︎

If you apply sunscreen in the morning before you go out, then you’re already one step ahead! We all know sunscreen is important, but not many people realize that it needs to be reapplied throughout the day. After several hours of wear, sunscreen has become less effective. It gets sweated and wiped off, so we need to make sure we have that high SPF protection whether it’s 8 AM or 3 PM. 

I know what you’re thinking, though: “How am I supposed to reapply my sunscreen if I’m wearing makeup??”. I thought the exact same thing, too. So, I researched the best ways to apply sunscreen over makeup. I found a post on Soko Glam’s KLOG on how to turn an empty cushion compact into a sunscreen cushion and had one of those “How did I not think of that before?!” kind of moments 😅 I commented saying it was a brilliant idea, but did not have an empty cushion (and wasn’t near finishing the one I had). Another forehead-smack moment was when the post author told me I could find empty cushion compacts online. 

I purchased an empty cushion compact that included a second refill compartment on Amazon for $8. I was blown away at the quality - it’s basically the exact same packaging that Laneige uses! The puff it comes with isn’t that great, but that isn’t a big deal. For sunscreen, I purchased the Cosrx Aloe Soothing Sun Cream SPF 50 for around $13. Also, this is optional, but I decided to purchase extra puffs. I got a pack of 4 Missha puffs for $6. 

Where I work, I may have to go outside once for max 15 minutes - but the hot Florida sun is killer. There are also large windows to let the sun in, so being able to reapply my sunscreen on my break was a skin saver. After a couple of weeks, I learned the benefits and downfalls of using a sunscreen cushion.

Benefits

✦ Sunscreen reapplication is extremely convenient. I don’t even have to pop into the bathroom, I can just use the big mirror on my compact. 

✦ I don’t have to worry about messing up my makeup since the Missha pad is so soft. 

✦ I get a dose of moisture midday, which is nice since the heat can dry out my skin. 

✦ It’s inexpensive. The compact and sunscreen together were around $22. The sunscreen I already had was pretty thick, so I needed to get something thinner. If you already have a thin milky sunscreen, you can skip buying a new one and just get the compact.

Cons 

✦ The only con I could think of was that only after a week of use, the cushion starts to look a bit dirty. Since I am wearing makeup, and have been sweating and exposed to the dust and dirt in the air, that makes its way into the cushion from dipping back and forth when reapplying. I realized that it must be like using a makeup brush for a long time without cleaning it. But since it has sunscreen in it, I can’t clean the cushion without wasting a lot of product. 

If you want to use a sunscreen cushion, I recommend using it on no makeup days. Before using the sunscreen cushion, gently wipe your face with a cleansing cloth that leaves little residue. That way, you’re limiting the amount of sweat and debris that gets into the cushion. Now, I just bring my sunscreen and a makeup puff in a small bag with me to work. 

It was definitely fun experimenting with, especially since it was DIY! Have you ever tried a sunscreen cushion? What are your thoughts on this? Let me know in the comments! Thank you for reading and have a lovely day 😸

This post is not sponsored. Links are not affiliate links. 

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[thegetawaydiary]

Day 6 | 07.06.17

LISBON, PORTUGAL

- Last night I did not get a very good sleep, it seems to be a very noisy hostel with very thin walls and the kind of floor that makes it sound like you are stomping when you are not. And waking up in here was so so gross, after coming back from the bathroom, I realised that the room actually smells so rank from all of our sleep breath, I could've thrown up. I didn’t even expect it, considering that my room in London was a lot smaller and didn’t smell. For breakfast the hostel makes pancakes, and I had one with apple slices in it which was a nice change. 

- I headed out with the goal to make it to the sea front. Not far from the hostel I came across a cute boutique with a nice white lace dress in it, which maybe I will go back and buy closer to the end of the trip. I kept walking downwards and eventually came across the Santa Justa Lift which is one of the tourist sights in Lisbon. I kept walking and when I came across a big open square I was too busy looking around and I walked right into an older lady who was really not impressed. I think I need to learn to say sorry in Portuguese. 

- I noticed that there a lot of homeless people here, especially in the squares, and they just pick a spot and go to sleep right in the sun in the middle of the day. 

- I made it to the waterfront, near the Arco da Rua Augusta and sat down to eat my fruit. It was really nice there, especially because there was a man playing electric guitar. It was all of his own compositions and it was really beautiful music so I gave him some of my left over pennies, which I guess is better than nothing. I walked along past a 15th Century church towards Alfama and it was at this point that I wondered why the hell I chose midday to walk uphill around this suburb. But I continued anyway, definitely getting burnt. And then getting lost. 

- After walking for a couple of more hours I made it back to the hostel, very hot, with sore feet, and feeling the sunburn starting to come out. I felt a bit silly being inside in the afternoon, but I couldn’t cope with being outside any longer. One of the hostel guys even pointed out my growing sunburn and suggested that I wear sunscreen. Because I definitely hadn’t put any on. He continued to tell me to make sure I put more on, and some after cream and that my light skin will burn very fast here. Like I didn’t already realise that.

- Also, while walking around, I noticed that there always seems to be men just standing around or sitting on the street doing nothing, just watching everyone. They also seem to be not afraid to stare. And not just the men, like all locals seem to stare at me.

- The fact that it is more foreign here has made me feel a bit lonely, and especially because everyone in this hostel seems to be with a friend(s). It would be really nice to travel with someone here, so that we could struggle with the language and the streets and the metro together. 

I can’t believe I only left home a week ago.

M

- update: I got chatting to the two German girls in my room and they were quite nice but they obviously just like to do their own thing together. I ventured out to the book fair again to find something for dinner - I got a slice of pizza and an ice cream - I am a picture of health. The ice cream girl was really nice and asked me about my trip and where I was from. Also, my sunburn has now really come out, its just a thin triangle on each shoulder, so not too bad but definitely not great. 

[nakedconversations1]

It’s Getting Hot In Canada

We all know that weather phenomena differ in various parts of the globe. It can be warm and sunny in one part of the planet and then totally cold and gloomy in another. This weather diversity actually gives more color to our lives but it can be a burden at times too especially with extreme weather conditions. And with climate change in the equation, it has drastically worsened weather systems and made it doubly harder for us to cope. It’s why Green activists encourage everyone to take an active part in environmental conservation efforts because it’s us humans who still suffer from nature’s wrath over time.

Winter has come and gone and spring is almost over too but weather experts are already warning Canadians to brace for the heat of summer. While the cold of winter isn’t something to look forward too, the same can be said for the intense summer heat. You’d be sweating in body parts you’ve never thought can sweat before. It will certainly drive up electric costs as air conditioning would likely be running 24/7 to help you cool off and beat the summer heat. The question now is whether Canadians ready for the heat wave that is set to welcome the summer season in Canada?

It may still be spring, but Environment Canada is warning people around the national capital region to prepare for decidedly summery weather over the coming days.

Temperatures in Ottawa-Gatineau are expected to hit 31 C on both Sunday and Monday, marking the "first heat event of the year," the weather agency said.

With the humidity, it should feel like 36 C on Sunday in Ottawa-Gatineau — although there could be some relief in the form of showers or even thunderstorms.

Overnight lows will remain around 20 C both days, according to the forecast.

Heat-related risks are greater for young children, pregnant women, older adults, and people who have chronic illnesses or work outdoors, Environment Canada said.

The agency is urging people to drink more water than normal and refrain from leaving pets inside hot vehicles.

(Via: http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/ottawa/heat-warning-ottawa-gatineau-1.4155263)

The intense heat isn’t just a major discomfort but can be a health risk too as you can easily fall victim to sunburn and heat stroke. You have an option whether to stay indoor during the high midday sun and only come out later in the day but since it can’t be avoided to go out especially if you have to run some errands, taking precautions like wearing sunblock/sunscreen, wearing a cap/hat or using an umbrella, drinking lots of fluid, etc. won’t just help you stay sane but keep you safe and healthy too.

The Greater Toronto Area is under a heat warning.

Environment Canada issued the warning just after 3 p.m. June 10.

Hot and humid conditions are expected Sunday and will continue into the early part of next week.

“Temperatures are expected to be near 31C Sunday and Monday with overnight lows near 20C, making this the first heat event of this year,” Environment Canada said.

“It is also possible that these heat conditions will persist into Tuesday. Temperatures will fall below heat warning criteria by the middle of this week.”

The warning takes in Toronto and York, Peel, Halton and Durham regions.

(Via: https://www.bramptonguardian.com/community-story/7364848-heat-warning-issued-for-gta-don-t-leave-pets-or-people-in-cars/)

Despite the continued heat warning in various places in Canada, Canadians still like going outdoors to enjoy the warm sunshine. While there are health risks from overexposure to the sun and drought and wildfires are also a possibility in some places, it's still not enough to dampen the spirits of Canadians who have been looking forward to the warm season since late last year when most of Canada is still covered in snow. It’s also a good time to catch up with friends and travel far as long as you don’t let yourself get too dehydrated during your travels. Remember that the elements can be harsh especially the sun and you want to have fun this summer and not end up sick because you failed to protect yourself from the heat.

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