Chambray Shirts – The New Little Black Dress

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A woman’s wardrobe is an ever changing while always building work of art. While seasonal trends come and go, certain clothing pieces will always be here to stay. Fashion staples like a little black dress or a good pair of jeans are sought after, coveted items. When you find a figure flattering black dress or a curve hugging and comfortable pair of jeans, never let them go! Your jeans and little black dress will have to move over as the chambray shirt is moving in! See what chambray shirts are all about and why some designers and fashion magazine editors are dubbing them the new “little black dress.”

 

Chambray Shirts

 

 

What is it?

Chambray shirts are tops made from denim or an alternative fabric with a denim like appearance. Typically, they are button down and feature three quarter length sleeves or long sleeved with the intention of being rolled up. Some have collars while others collarless. The same statement can also be said for whether or not the chest area will have pockets. Women’s Chambray shirts usually have a more form fitting straight cut and vary in tone and shade. Much like a pair of jeans would. Button color varies, and you could find ones with metal or traditional types.

Check the tag for specific washing instructions, but chambray shirts are effortless all around. Wash in cool water and hang dry. No ironing needed! While almost anything is fair game, fashion experts from Vogue, Cosmopolitan and Forever 21 suggest that you refrain from pairing a chambray shirt with denim pants as it clashes. If you’re wearing denim on top, choose a different material for the bottom, and the same for the other way around! Exceptions are made for a pastel colored denim pant with a traditional denim colored chambray.

 

Leggings’ Best Friend

Funky patterns, cool colors and metallic leggings are in style right now! Unfortunately, some of these bold and beautiful patterns pose a problem for finding a matching top. Enter chambray shirts! Thankfully all of these fun patterns will pair nicely with denim. Express your inner artist and love for colors while keeping your fashion tastes in check.

 

Also Read: How To Accessorize For Less

 

Accessories

A chambray shirt is best worn with some accessories. Here are some of a fashionista’s favorite ways to add some pizzazz to their look.

 

Scarves

For those in a mild to a cold climate, a stash of scarves is a must! Infiniti, traditional and bandit style scarves are ideal for pairing with a denim shirt. It might be your only chance to add a pop of color to the outfit if you’ve decided to go with black or another neutral pant choice. Play up with different textures. Embrace sequins, chunky knits or animal prints that you might not feel comfortable wearing as a shirt or pant print. Scarves run the gamut in pricing and range from $5 to upwards of $50 for upscale materials like cashmere. Find them at your local department store, all-purpose superstore or in the accessory section of your favorite self-standing clothing brand.

 

Figure Fitting Belts

Belts are no longer just something used to hold up a pair of pants. Fashion friendly belts are redesigned to hug your waist and flatter your figure. Also, fashion waist belts are chunkier in size and usually don’t have the traditional buckle closure that a traditional one has. Pair a belt with your chambray shirt to accent your body shape and also change the shirt structure to one of a fitted shirt. Fashion belts are a fashionista’s favorite accessory as they work for women of all shapes and sizes. Hence, plus size or standard, you will love the look either way. Try to stick to neutral colored belts if you’re trying to pinch pennies. You could also go for colors that match various shades of boots, sneakers or sandals already in your closet. Wear it by itself or throw a scarf into the mix.

 

Also Read: Fashion Tips For Larger Sizes

 

Statement Necklace

Because the vast majority of chambray shirts are button up, choose to leave the top few unbuttoned and highlight your chest and neck area tastefully with a chunky and colorful statement necklace. Costume jewelry, in particular, is a budget friendly way to get some color in and wear a piece that you might not get to otherwise.

Jump in on a new trend that is here to stay for many years to come. With so many different ways to wear chambray shirts and a seemingly endless selection of accessories, it is easy to see why this all-purpose shirt should be a closet staple. Challenge yourself to create five different looks with a chambray shirt and see how effortless it is to have a different look for every day of the week. For the cherry on top, girls and women of all ages, body types, weight and height all look stunning while wearing this casual piece!

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How To Break Up with Clutter!

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We’re right in the midst of the holiday season, a time full of family, friends, food, and… STUFF! All gifts are given with good intentions and decorations are purchased to make a house feel like home for the holidays. Unfortunately, there are gifts we’ll receive that just aren’t our style and those decorations are only relevant for a small portion of the year. So many of us shuffle these gifts to the side and let holiday décor pile up in corners of the house, closet shelves and basement storage bins. Are you finding yourself to have too much clutter?

 

 

Breaking Up With Clutter

 

 

Right now is the ideal time to get rid of junk and restart with a clean slate. Here’s how to go about doing “a de clutter” before the holidays and get your space feeling clean and organized. With care and a plan ahead of time, there will be plenty of room to welcome in your new beloved gifts from friends and family.

 

Lay the groundwork

Now that you have decided that decluttering is a good idea, it’s time to get the foundation in order. Therefore, try to set a goal for the amount of things you would like to get rid of in total. Professional organizers recommend fifty items for those doing their first spree and fifteen for those who do them a few times a year. If those numbers sound intimidating, don’t worry it is easier than you think.

Top Clutter Culprits

• Clothes and shoes
• Accessories (purses, belts, costume jewelry)
• Kid’s toys
• Medicine cabinet contents
• Kitchen pantry (think expired food and anything that hasn’t been used recently)
• Junk drawer contents

Gather all of the items into a dedicated space and make a list to keep progress to your goal number. Want an extra challenge? Count only one of each clothing item as something on the list. As an example, if you donate five shirts, count it as one and challenge yourself to find other things besides clothes to rehome. Don’t stress it if you can’t find other items; a good closet purge is always a win.

 

What to do with the items

Have a whole pile of things that you’re ready to part with? Your next question is probably, now what?! Creating unnecessary waste is never a good idea. A majority of the items you’ll collect while clearing your space will be things that others in your community can use. Any clothing that is in good condition and free of stains or holes can be donated to local thrift stores, shelters or children’s programs. Books can always go to the library, but nursing homes, community centers, and hospitals likely accept literature with pleasure. Veteran’s associations and community initiative groups also offer a pick up service to save you some time from loading items up and transporting them. Religious institutions also accept baby items, literature, clothing, and odds and ends with gratitude.

Capitalize on the clutter and sell some of it for cash! Craigslist, eBay, Buy/Sell/Trade groups on Facebook and other mobile applications are the best ways to connect with those nearby and around the world. Pictures are the key to success with selling online and you can never have too many of an item. Be honest about the condition of the piece and try to be as speedy as possible with your shipping. Both of these qualities are attractive to potential buyers.

Consequently, there are a wealth of odds and ends that aren’t worth the time to try and sell online. Picture frames, used kitchen appliances, most kid’s toys, and costume jewelry fall within this category. If the weather permits, save all of your items for a garage sale! Advertise in local community groups online, supermarkets, the library and get friends to spread the word. Worried that you don’t have enough for a garage sale? Share this article with friends and get them in on the “de clutter” trend. Do a yard sale together to attract more deal hunters.

 

Additional Tips

 

Make and Keep Good Habits
Accumulation will happen naturally and bringing in some new isn’t always a bad thing. Learn some lessons from this first cleanse and how to maintain balance and minimalistic practices going forward with these minimalistic mantras:

A place for everything and everything in its place. Is your child’s toy box full? Time to remove some of the older toys to make room for new favorites. Try to avoid storing toys in other areas instead.

Can’t remember? Then now is the time. Can’t recall the last time you wore that dress? Made cupcakes with that “as seen on TV” pan? Then it likely doesn’t have a place within your home anymore.

Communication Leads to Break Ups. This one is off-beat from the usual relationship mantra, but for STUFF, it fits perfectly! Actively engage all family members to assist with the decluttering event and remember to be mindful.

Doing a junk purge is an excellent habit to put into place a few times a year. Try one before the holidays (now!), with spring cleaning and one to start off the summer. Remember that holidays and gift giving is about being thoughtful, and bringing joy to a loved one’s life. Choose to gift experiences over physical items whenever possible. Many happy memories could be made over lunch that’s your treat instead of giving a simple gift basket with no future value.

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Temporary Hair Removal Methods

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On a bad hair day it seems justified to complain that our hair “has a mind of its own”. The same can also be said of unwanted hairs. These undesirables tend to sprout up wherever they want and keep to their own schedule. And like a door-to-door salesperson, they quickly become a nuisance. Shaving these hairs lasts only a day or two. Shaving then becomes a constant prickly problem. And plucking these hairs is painful and time-consuming. Read below for some temporary hair removal methods.

 

 

Temporary Hair Removal Methods

 

 

Many people with unwanted hair find the idea of permanent hair removal appealing. However, once a price tag is attached to this idea, it quickly turns into quite an investment. If you are looking for an effective way to remove unwanted hair that doesn’t involve a razor or tweezer, consider one of the temporary hair removal methods below.

 

Waxing

 

How it works

Waxing is one of the temporary hair removal methods. Waxing removes hair from the root and is long-lasting. Removing hair with wax is usually done one of two ways: with hard wax or using strip waxing. With hard wax, a thick layer of wax is applied to the designated part of the body. After the wax cools and hardens it is quickly removed from the skin. The hairs are then pulled from the skin along with the hardened wax.

In strip waxing a thin layer of wax is applied to the designated area. A slim cloth or paper strip then adheres to the sticky layer. The esthetician rapidly pulls the cloth against the direction of hair growth to remove hairs.

Waxing is done successfully on just about any part of the body. Common areas of hair removal are as follows: eyebrows, face, bikini area, legs, arms and underarms. Waxing can be done on just about any type of skin as well. However, some may be more sensitive to waxing than others.

 

Also Read: Long Term Hair Removal Methods

 

Cost Factor

Most waxing takes place at a spa or salon, and is performed by an esthetician. Because it is done by a licensed professional, waxing is more expensive than shaving. The price of waxing also depends on what portion of the body is being waxed. Waxing an upper lip or the eyebrows usually costs $10 – $25. Waxing one entire leg costs $60 – $75 at most spas.

Some prefer to save money and purchase a large container of wax from a beauty supply store and try it at home. But if you aren’t trained properly waxing at home is a messy and (even more) painful enterprise. Rather than ending up an extremely sticky situation or turning yourself into a burn victim, you may opt to purchase wax strips at a local grocery or drug store.

These pre-waxed strips area easy to heat up by rubbing them between the palms or using a hair dryer. Shortly after smoothing the warmed strip to the selected area pull the strip quickly to remove the hair. One box of pre-waxed strips typically costs $4 – $12 and contains several strips. These strips then can be used on other areas or in future waxes. Using these kits does take a little practice and patience, but generally yields hair-free results for a fraction of the price of a professional job.

 

Pain Factor

Getting waxing done is no day at the park; it is a rather painful experience as far as hair removal goes. And certain places on the body are usually more sensitive to the pain than others. For example, getting the upper lip waxed is usually more painful than a leg.

In addition to certain areas being more sensitive to waxing than others, many people are more sensitive to strip waxing. If you find strip waxing to be especially painful, you may wish to find an esthetician that uses the hard wax instead.

Immediately after waxing the skin may appear pink or red, and a stinging sensation also usually lingers. Applying a cool aloe vera gel immediately after a wax job helps to reduce the stinging. Generally 20 minutes afterwards the pain diminishes and the skin should appear normal in coloring. In a few cases, irritated red bumps or a rash develops afterwards. If this is a problem that is consistent after waxing, it may be beneficial to notify your esthetician or look into another method of hair removal.

 

Lasting factor

Waxing is not permanent but lasts longer than shaving. While shaving removes the hair that grows on top of the skin, waxing is able to remove hair from the root. After waxing it usually takes two to eight weeks for the hair to grow back.

 

Drawbacks

Some hair may appear in less than two weeks after a wax since some hairs may have been growing prior to the wax. If they didn’t reach the surface, and hence pulled by the wax, they will resurface sooner. However, when hair does grow back after a wax it is much softer in texture than the hairs after a shave.

 

Best for

Waxing done by a professional esthetician is generally safe for most people. However, those with especially sensitive skin may not want to choose this method of hair removal. Since waxing can be pricey, those on a strict budget may want to opt for a less expensive method – especially if they have a multitude of hairy arenas.

 

Depilatory Cream

 

How it works

Depilatory cream or lotion is one of the other temporary hair removal methods. Depilatory cream basically dissolves unwanted hair. This product is made of a variety of alkaline chemicals like calcium thioglycogate and sodium hydroxide that help to wipe out the hairs. After applying a substantial layer of depilatory cream over the hairs, the ingredients of the solution work to break down the hairs’ keratin. Keratin are the fibrous proteins that made up a hair’s structure.

Depending on the strength of the cream and the thickness of the hair, the depilatory cream usually needs to sit on the designated area for four to ten minutes. Then using a warm, damp wash cloth wipe away the cream and hair remnants. Skin should be smooth and hairless.

 

Cost Factor

A container of depilatory cream costs usually $3 to $10. Regardless of the brand, you usually are able to get quite a few applications out of a single bottle. Depilatory products are commonly in a lotion or cream form. However, they are available in gel, roll-ons, and aerosol sprays as well.

When purchasing temporary hair removal cream it is a good idea to pay attention to the label. Some creams are intended for facial air, while others remove unwanted hair on larger areas of the body. These different bottles will vary in strength.

 

Also Read: Skin Cream 101: What Works & Why

 

Pain factor

Aside from feeling a bit chilly, applying depilatory creams to the skin should not hurt. However, it is best to make sure there aren’t any cuts, burns, or scrapes in the targeted area. Otherwise, applying the product to these areas of unwanted hair causes quite a sting. There are a myriad of chemicals in depilatory cream, and most open sores don’t appreciate the direct contact.

Pain and irritation also occurs if you leave depilatory products on too long. When left on too long, it burns the skin. Some individuals are more sensitive to the chemical reaction of hair removal cream than others. To prevent burning it is beneficial to test just a small area when using the product for the first time. Otherwise, you might end up with a bright, pink-skinned mustache in lieu of a few strands of upper lip hair.

 

Lasting factor

Using depilatory products will rid you of unwanted hairs longer than shaving. Shaving only removes the hair from the surface of the skin and therefore lasts a day or two. Hair removal products get slightly beneath the surface to dissolve the hair. Generally, depilatory treatments yield smooth skin for three to five days. And when it returns, it will be much softer than the shaving-induced stubble.

 

Drawbacks

There are a couple of drawbacks to using temporary hair removal products. The first is that it is a process that takes practice and finesse. Leaving the cream on too long results in burns, irritation, and red skin. On the other hand, if the product is removed too soon, the unwanted hairs remain intact. It usually takes some trial and error to get familiar with a particular brand and the ideal amount of time required.

The other drawback of depilatory cream is the unappealing odor. The sulfuric smell of the cream very much resembles rotten eggs. This unpleasant smell also intensifies as it’s working its magic to dissolve the hair.

Buying hair removal cream that is infused with essential oils is nicer to the olfactory senses. Despite the foul odor, the smell usually disappears after the cream is wiped away clear from the designated area. Applying a light-sensed lotion afterwards helps to create a nicer aroma. Moisturizing the area following a treatment is also beneficial to the skin.

 

Best for

Using depilatory cream is great for those short on time and short on cash. Many find this hair removal method appealing since it doesn’t require an appointment with an esthetician. It is easy to do in the comforts of your own bathroom.

While hair removal creams are over the counter, peruse the different types and consider what is best for you. Keep in mind what area of the body you want to target and be sure to purchase a depilatory product that is intended for that area. Using a cream intended for legs on the face may cause severe irritation.

If you have sensitive skin you’ll want to consider purchasing a product that accounts for that. For sensitive skin there are now quite a few variety of depilatory products. Most of these contain aloe vera and Vitamin E which are gentle to the skin.

 

Threading

 

How it works

Threading is on of the other temporary hair removal methods that dates back to ancient times in present India and Egypt. The technicians who specialize in these temporary hair removal methods use a cotton thread to rapidly remove unwanted hairs. Essentially the thread is lassoed around each hair. Then the specialist pulls on the thread so that the hair is lifted out of its follicle.

 

Cost Factor

The price of threading fluctuates depending on the area of on unwanted hairs to be removed. The eyebrow region usually ranges from $10 – $40. The upper lip area costs $6 – $12. And a full face treatment ranges from $30 – $55. The price also varies by location since larger cities tend to be more expensive.

 

Pain factor

The sensation of threading is very similar to having hairs plucked or tweezed, but in a faster sequence. Plucking is a relatively slow process, while the specialists quickly go from one hair to the next. If tweezing doesn’t bother you then this treatment won’t cause additional pain.

If your skin is sensitive you might want to apply a numbing spray to the targeted area prior to a threading appointment. This helps to reduce the burn. Adding a warm compress to the area following an appointment reduces pain as well.

 

Lasting factor

Threading removes unwanted hair for a much longer period of time than shaving. It usually takes two to six weeks for the hair to fully regrow after a threading appointment. The hair also usually returns feeling soft.

Many who frequently undergo threading treatments say threading reduces hair over time. Continually pulling the hairs at the root weakens the follicle. Weak or damaged follicles therefore are less likely to sprout new hairs.

 

Drawbacks

If you are one who likes to have a completely hair-free body, threading will not accomplish this. Threading generally only works on unwanted hairs that are fine in texture, which usually are on or around the face. It is also necessary to have some hair growth so that the thread wraps around the hair.

The other drawback is that it is often difficult to find a technician who specializes in threading. Currently, estheticians do not have a licensed training program for this method. Rather, this technique is usually passed down from a mother, older sister, or relative.

 

Best for

Customers who are limited in time will appreciate this temporary hair removal method. Professionals who specialize in threading are usually able to remove hairs fast. Skilled specialists can remove hair from an area in a matter of minutes. Threading works best on fine hairs.

This procedure is also good for those with sensitive skin. Many of the chemicals in wax or depilatory creams cause irritation in some individuals. If you are one who is sensitive to those products, threading may be a gentler alternative.

Finally, those with unruly eyebrows find threading to be ideal. A skilled specialist in threading will shape the brows in addition to just removing the hairs. Those who continually undergo this process find that the unruliness of their eyebrows decreases over time.

Some individuals prefer one of these temporary hair removal methods. Others like to change up their methods. If you are someone who has tried all the temporary methods and feel that it is still a constant battle you may want to look into permanent hair removal methods. They generally are more costly. However, the permanent results may be worth the investment!

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The Benefits of Touch Therapy

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Just about all of us are very familiar with mental stress. This mental stress can be the result of a crisis situation that suddenly invades our life. Or, it can even be just going through the daily motions of the grind of life. Regardless of the circumstances, the stress is real and makes an impact. Stress affects our mind and it also affects our bodies. Stress that manifests physically can be alleviated by a massage therapist with touch therapy.

Doing things like stretching or deep breathing are easy ways to de-stress that work for some people. Others need something a little more hands-on. Some individuals who carry a lot of stress develop knots of tension over time and it requires more physical attention. Studies show that those who are battling major issues also benefit from incorporating touch therapy into their medical treatment plans.

 

 

Benefits Of Touch Therapy

 

 

Massage therapy and Reiki therapy are two forms of touch therapy that work to alleviate stress and promote overall wellness. Read on to learn the differences between these two forms of treatment and to see if one is right for you.

 

Reiki Therapy

This form of touch therapy is a Japanese technique intended for stress reduction and relaxation. This therapy also promotes healing for those suffering from health conditions.

Japanese Buddhist Mikao Usu developed Reiki in 1922. Reiki is a very spiritual form of touch therapy, although it is not affiliated with a specific religion. Reiki is made up of two Japanese words: “Rei” and “Ki”. Rei refers to God’s wisdom or the divine power. Ki is defined as the life energy force, or one’s nature, mood, or temperament.

Essential to this form of touch therapy is the idea of transferring invisible, yet positive “life force energy.” When the body is low on life force energy it is more likely to feel the effects of stress and sickness. On the other hand, if the body is high on life force energy the person is more likely to be happy and healthy.

 

How it works

Transferring positive, life force energy is the fundamental concept at the heart of Reiki. The Reiki therapist uses a “laying on hands” method to transfer the positive life force energy into the areas of the body that are low.

At the start of a Reiki session, the therapist will have clients lie on a table on their back and relax. During the session, the Reiki therapist then goes through a series of hand positions over the body to infuse positive life force energy.

While there is no strict order of operation, therapists generally start with the top of the head and work their way down. During this touch therapy the therapist will pay special attention to the chakras of the body or the key areas involved with the human energy system. The heart is an example of a chakra.

If you do not feel comfortable with the therapist touching you tell the practitioner at the start of the session. The therapist is still able to infuse positive energy by holding his or her hands in the various positions an inch or so away from the body.

 

Length of session

The average length of a Reiki session is 45 minutes to an hour and a half. The Reiki practitioner generally holds each hand position for two to three minutes. If you specify an area of the body that needs attention, additional time can be applied to that area.

 

Pricing

A Reiki session generally costs $25 to $100. The cost is usually higher in urban areas. The price also varies depending on the level and experience of the Reiki practitioner. There are four levels of training in Reiki: One, Two, Advanced, and Master. A Master-leveled practitioner typically charges a higher price.

 

Benefits

Reiki therapy is a method of holistic treatment in that it treats the whole person including the body, mind, emotions and spirit. Benefits of this touch therapy include feelings of peace, serenity, well-being and relaxation.

While there is no evidence that suggests this form of alternative medicine treats physical conditions and ailments, some sufferers believe Reiki helps. After undergoing a Reiki treatment, many believe that their symptoms are less severe, and that they feel better.

Reiki is great for self-improvement. It is also safe, natural, and easy to participate in. Frequent participants claim they feel happier, less stressed, and revitalized after a treatment.

 

Drawbacks

Because Reiki is a lesser known form of touch therapy it is often difficult to find a practitioner. They are usually more accessible in urban areas and in the U.S. states that are along the coasts.

It is also difficult to determine beforehand the skill level of a Reiki therapist. Unlike other therapies, Reiki therapists and their respective training programs are not regulated by the government. Hence, there is no standard set for someone who wants to establish a practice as a Reiki practitioner.

When making an appointment for the first time it is a good idea to ask the practitioner his or her level of training. A Master-level is preferred, but those who are designated as Advanced usually have a significant amount of experience as well. Prior to making an appointment, it may be beneficial to ask friends or acquaintances for a referral. Making an appointment with someone who has been seen by others and comes highly recommended is more comforting.

A final drawback of Reiki therapy is that some individuals are skeptical of it as a form of therapy. Because it deals with the power of the mind and the idea of invisible, life force energy, many write this off as a bunch of “baloney,” or insert your preferred phrase.

Medical journals do not claim Reiki is a scientific treatment to address physical conditions. However, those who continue to make appointments with a Reiki practitioner claim that treatments help them to feel better. As to its effectiveness you may have to try it out and make your own determination.

 

Self-treatment option

It is nice to be able to see a Reiki practitioner to receive a comprehensive, entire body treatment. However, even most practitioners encourage clients to perform Reiki treatment on themselves.

Many of the hand positions that take place during a schedule session can be replicated at home. There are several tutorials of these hand positions found on the web, along with videos. It might be awkward at first, but continually practicing improves performance.

For those that have a strong interest in applying Reiki treatment, there are also training sessions available. Most of these sessions are available to anyone and take place on a weekend. These sessions generally take some planning since they are offered in certain locations at specific times of the year.

 

Massage Therapy

Massage dates back to over 5,000 years ago. Written records have been discovered in China, India, and Egypt which date back 2700 B.C. Even in historical times this form of touch therapy was used for medicinal and health benefits.

Massage therapy gained popularity in the United States in the mid 1800’s. By the 1980’s massage therapist’s started to be utilized seriously by professional athletes. Since then massage therapy has taken off and is continues to be used by different people for with varying health reasons.

Massage therapy involves applying pressure to various areas of the body. Muscles, tendons, ligaments, and other areas of tension are targeted with pressure. A massage therapist or a masseuse generally uses a chair or a massage table in order to administer treatment.

 

How it works

There are over 200 different types of massage. Some are more intense than others and it’s helpful to have some basic knowledge before making an appointment. Some of the more common forms of massage are:

Swedish Massage: A less intensive massage that is beneficial for relaxation and relieving tense muscles

Hot Stone Massage: This form of massage uses heated stones. The massage therapist places stones onto the tense areas of the body and then are massaged into the muscles. This is a more relaxing type of massage.

Deep Tissue Massage: Relief of tension in key areas is key to this method. The therapist applies harder pressure to tense areas. This form of massage is less relaxing than a Swedish massage, but is beneficial in breaking up the knots of stress.

Aromatherapy Massage: This is another form of a relaxing massage. The massage therapist applies essential oils to incorporate the benefits of aromatherapy.

 

Also Read: A Guide To Aromatherapy

 

Shiatsu Massage: A form of massage with Japanese origins. The therapist applies rhythmic finger pressure to acupressure points on the body. The goal of Shiatsu is to improve energy flow, alleviate tension and overall health of the client.

Trigger Point Massage: This massage focuses on how tight areas of the body negatively affect other parts of the body. A massage therapist then applies isolated pressure to these key trigger points to help reduce the pain impacting elsewhere in the body.

Sports Massage: This style massage is intended for the athlete. Athletes who play certain sports are subject to soreness and tension in specific muscles and areas. A massage therapist focuses on these overused areas when applying pressure.

Chair Massage: Generally used for massages that are less lengthy in time. The head, neck, shoulders and back are the prime areas of focus.

 

Length of session

Massage times range from 30, 50, to 90 minutes. Some massages run for two hours, but going any longer is not recommended. Full body massages are usually 50 to 90 minutes in length.

 

Pricing

The national average price for a massage is $60 dollar an hour. Urban areas are generally more expensive; the spa or individual pricing of the massage therapist affects pricing as well. In addition to paying for the massage, it is encouraged that you tip a massage therapist who provides good service after a massage.

 

Benefits

Many who schedule a massage initially look forward to the relaxation aspect of a massage. However, the benefits of massage travel more than just skin deep. Knots of tension build up over time due to stress. Sometimes we are aware of them, sometimes we aren’t. But after a visit to a massage therapist, it is nice have the feeling of having that tension rubbed out. Following a massage, clients generally feel looser and more relaxed.

In addition to relieving muscle pain and tension, massage has additional health benefits as well. Some of these health benefits include alleviating headaches, reducing stress and anxiety. This form of touch therapy also helps those who suffer from joint pain and/or sports injuries.

 

Also Read: How To Return to Running after Injury

 

Drawbacks

The main complaint many have about massage is that going frequently drains the wallet. A longer massage does usually lower the rate per minute, but a 90 minute massage is still price nonetheless. Some massage venues, like Massage Envy, have a monthly billing cycle which helps to reduce the average price. However, for these places it is essential to go in a timely manner in order to make it cost effective.

Some massage training schools will offer the public a discounted rate. By looking into these institutes is a nice way to get a massage for a reduced rate, as well as giving a students some hands-on experience.

Another drawback can occur when experiencing a deep tissue massage. Since these massage techniques do use more pressure, they can be physically intense or uncomfortable. Most associate the word massage with relaxing; deep tissue massages generally are not. However, after leaving the massage appointment, or the next day, the benefits of such a massage are generally experienced.

Even though deep-tissue and sports massages are more intense a good massage therapist should ease into the pressure. If at any time during a massage any procedure is painful it is important to let the massage therapist know right away.

 

Self-treatment option

While it is easier to have someone else apply pressure to those tense areas, it is possible to massage some of those knotted muscles out at home. While it depends on the exact location, using massage tools helps to make the job easier. A massage ball or a trigger point foam roller in nice to have on hand when working out tight areas of the body. Using these massage tools for the first time is generally a little awkward and usually takes some practice.

The key to using them is to work through those tight areas in a sequence that uses repetition; one quick roll isn’t going to loosen up those knots. But once you get the hang of it, it’s nice to be able to knead out those areas without having to wait to see a massage therapist.

With all the business that fills up the calendars and agendas, many don’t feel they have the time for a stress break or touch therapy. But over time, this stress builds up and has a negative impact even if these impacts aren’t visible. Taking some time to de-stress and focus on the self is a great way to re-charge and better our overall health – physically and mentally.

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Skin Cream 101 – What Works and Why?

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Skin is the body’s largest organ system and surprisingly one of the most complex. The toughest skin is found on our feet, while the most delicate skin makes up our faces. Taking care of skin sounds easy, but there’s much more than meets the eye. Read on to see why caring for your skin is so important and how you can determine what type of skin you have. After identifying your skin type, we’ll help you to find the best skin cream for acne, oily, dry or combination skin.

 

 

What Skin Creams Work And Why?

 

 

Why is Skin Care so Important? To put it quite simply, our skin is gross! Over 1,000 different types of bacteria live on human skin. Some of them aren’t bad. Most are acquired through our surroundings and activities. Our skin is the primary protector to our insides and needs to be in tip-top shape to keep infections from entering our bloodstream. Well hydrated, moisturized and clean skin regulates body temperature and keeps you shielded from the environment. Skin creams and other complementing products are the best way to keep your skin in great and healthy condition!

There are different types of skin creams for acne, oily, dry or combination skin. It’s pretty easy to tell if you have acne or not, but detecting dry or combination skin isn’t always so easy. Here’s a breakdown on the standard identifiers for each skin type and what kinds of ingredients to seek out or avoid in a skin cream.

 

Acne

Acne skin creams are a specialized product, with many aggressive treatment routines on the market. Powerful combinations of chemicals and toners break down the bacteria and give your skin a clean slate. Working to break down acne is a process that differs from other types of skin conditions. An acne regimen requires a series of products that all work together with the same base ingredients that are known to break down acne breeding grounds like salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide.

 

Oily Skin

When touching your face and are left with a residue on your fingers, it is clear that you most likely have oily skin. Leveling out the amount of oil on your skin will ensure that you stay acne free and avoid getting blackheads. The best skin creams for oil treatment are gentle and made from water based ingredients versus oil based. Most skin creams advertise right on the front packaging if they are water or oil based.

 

Also Read: Natural Oils For Skin Care

 

Dry Skin

Dry skin can be extremely uncomfortable or itchy. It’s also the first to suffer from irritation and those with dry skin find seasonal changes to be especially challenging. The key to treating dry skin is moisture and hydration! Look for a skin cream that advertises for dry skin and moisturizing properties. Humectant and emollient ingredients are ideal. Examples of Humectants include urea, glycerin, and sorbitol. Humectants attract water and Emollients patch up rough spots for all over smooth and hydrated skin.

 

Combination

A common term in the skincare health and beauty industry is the T-Zone. This refers to your forehead, nose, and chin. Most individuals with combination skin have oil in the T-Zone and suffer from dry skin everywhere else. Some skin creams have a balanced “smart” formula that moisturizes where it’s needed most and cleanses excess oils away. If an intelligent formula skin cream isn’t working, some dermatologists recommend using two creams to balance out the facial area.

 

Sensitive Skin

Many individuals also suffer from sensitive skin, which makes them prone to redness, irritations or rashes. Companies recognize these skin concerns and carefully build products that are free from harsh chemicals and place a focus on natural ingredients. To test your skin, experts recommend introducing one new skin care product at a time. If any negative reactions come up, it’s easy to avoid that product in the future. Should product after product provide irritation, look to make connections between ingredients to select skin creams that have alternate ingredients in its place.

 

 

Top Skin Care Creams

 

No particular skin cream will work for every person. As noted above, your search for a good skin care cream should start with understanding what type of skin you have. Here are some of the top rated beauty skin creams and what reviewers have to say about the products.

 

An All Around Winning Skin Cream – Retinol Surge Moisturizer by Body Merry

Retinol is a famous ingredient used to combat aging skin. Even if aging isn’t a concern for you, a skin cream that boasts retinol as an ingredient is one worth paying attention to. It’s all around formula tackles lines within the skin, balances out dark spots and replenishes dry patches. Body Merry advocates that even skin is the first step to healthy skin. Use daily to keep skin healthy, stay clear of breakouts and maintain healthy skin for years to come.

 

Best Skin Cream for Oily Skin – Dermalogica Intensive Moisture Balance

Dermalogica is a well-known brand that has a loyal following by many. Aside from acne, oily skin is arguably one of the hardest to treat and maintain. Packed with Vitamin C, Ginkgo and grape seed are some of the components that repair skin and bring it back to a balanced nature. Dermalogica is one of the premier skin cream brands and is typically priced around $50 for a tube.

 

Best Skin Cream for Acne Prone Skin – Acne Scar Cream from New York Biology

New York Biology’s acne skin cream is different because it focuses on skin growth over bacteria removal. Skin that’s encouraged to grow will naturally repair itself faster, therefore, sending breakouts packing. Users note the formula to be exceptionally hydrating, which is something that most acne skin creams lack. It’s moderately priced around $20 a container.

 

Best Natural Skin Cream – Amara Organics Anti Aging Face Cream Moisturizer with Resveratrol & Peptides

Amara Organics’ Moisturizer is a crowd pleaser as it is made with 100% natural ingredients. No harsh chemicals or words you can’t pronounce here! It harnesses everything nature has to offer and employs vitamins to repair, hydrate and soften skin. All of their products are also cruelty free, so you can feel good and look good when using them. It’s moderately priced around $20 a bottle.

 

 

Complementing Products

 

 

Skin creams aside, there are a few other essential beauty products that should probably be in your medicine cabinet. Different stores and skincare experts will try to convince you that a skincare regimen must consist of a dozen products. This simply isn’t so! Don’t become overwhelmed by the thought of some drawn out skin potions and a routine that’ll force you to wake up an hour earlier.

 

Moisturizers

A solid moisturizer isn’t just for someone who suffers from dry skin! Regardless of brand or formula, washing your face naturally strips away most of your face’s “good oils” while ridding your face of the bad ones. After each wash, replenish with a hydrating skin cream.

 

Exfoliators

Every once and awhile, your skin needs a good scrubbing! Salt, sugar and microbead scrubs exfoliate your skin and clear dead skin cells and grime. These scrubs speed up the natural skin shedding process and are the perfect way to open up pores and cleanse before a new skincare routine. Exfoliating has its place in a skincare routine, but is usually best done in moderation.

 

Also Read: Why You Need To Regularly Exfoliate

 

Cleansing Wipes

Remove the dirt, grime, and sweat that cakes up on your face throughout the day. Pre-wet wipes are probably one of the best ways to take care of cleansing your skin. These gentle wipes work to remove excess product, makeup, and oil on your face. Use them at night or after a workout for a quick skin refresher. Perfect for on the go and travel!

 

Wrinkle Creams

As we age, it’s natural for our skin to shift into different cycles. With these cycles, wrinkles can appear. Within the beauty industry, there is a whole segment that is devoted just to anti-aging skin creams and scientific research to understand how skin ages and what we can do to slow its effects. Leading scientists and researchers have paired up with leading skin care companies to develop formulas and solutions for aging related skin woes. These products are usually serums that are added to an existing routine.

 

Food is your Friend!

You can boost your skin’s appearance by choosing to eat healthily and filling your diet with some of these skin-friendly bites.

 

Salad

Toss together a salad with kale, juicy tomatoes, carrots and some olive oil and lemon. Both kale and tomatoes boost your skin’s ability to protect against UV rays which cause harmful burns. The burst of zesty lemon citrus could lower your risk for squamous cell carcinoma according to researchers at The University of Arizona.

 

Seasoned Beef with Rosemary

Succulent, juicy beef is loaded with various Omega acids which combat inflammation. Season it with salt, pepper and fresh sprigs of rosemary while cooking. You’ll have the rosemary to thank for a reduced risk of melanoma according to studies published in the International Journal of Epidemiology.

 

Sunflower Seeds

A healthy but filling snack, sunflower seeds are an awesome way to get your salty fix. The high presence of Vitamin E wards away embarrassing and unwanted pimples.

 

Routines Matter

Your skin completely renews itself every 28 days. Therefore, it may take a week to two weeks to see results from your new skin care products and creams. After that, it is all about maintaining. Aim to wash your face in the morning after you wake up and in the evening before you go to bed. Perform your skin care routine before putting on any makeup for the day and always remember to remove all makeup before bed. Leaving makeup on can consequently lead to the clogging of pores, which creates excess oil and allows negative bacteria to collect. Don’t be afraid to switch products in and out to tinker with a routine and find what works best for you!

 

Also Read: How To Simplify The Morning Beauty Routine

 

Whether you’re young or old, have acne or not, the condition of your skin should always be a top priority for you. Using skin creams in addition to moisturizers, exfoliators, wrinkle creams and makeup removers will have your skin looking beautiful. Healthy skin is the foundation to feeling like a model ready to walk the runway!

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