7 Hidden Ways to Get Better Sleep

7 Hidden Ways to Get Better Sleep
Go From Restless to Well-Rested in No Time





Create the right environment. Get your body and mind in the habit of using your bedroom for sleeping. If you frequently sit in bed to pay your bills, do your homework, watch television, eat, talk on the phone, etc., your mind will expect that the bedroom is for daytime activities. Instead, create an environment that is suitable for sleeping. Equip your room with soft lighting, comfortable bedding, and relaxing music. Other tricks include turning the temperature down a few notches, and turning the clock away from your view. Recent studies reveal that watching your sleep time vanish into the morning hours only makes you more anxious and less able to fall asleep.

Get yourself into a routine. This is especially hard for people with wavering, active schedules, like students and parents. On busy days, it is difficult—but crucial—to be firm with a routine. If you normally don't fall asleep until the wee hours of the morning, or if you don't have a sleep schedule at all, try going to bed a half an hour earlier each week, or set a time to get in bed and stick with it. Eventually your body will get used to going to sleep at that time and it will begin to come naturally.

Limit food and beverage intake before bed. As you lie down to sleep, acids in the stomach level out, making heartburn and indigestion more likely to occur. Also, your metabolism increases slightly to digest food, which can also raise your energy level. Stop eating at least three hours before your scheduled bedtime. If you must snack on something, keep it small, and avoid high-fat foods, which take longer to digest. Instead, have a granola bar, some toast, or a small bowl of cereal, but keep your portion small. Say no to stimulants like caffeine and nicotine, which can raise blood pressure and energy levels. Alcohol may be a depressant, but after its sedative effects wear off, your sleep patterns will suffer.

Consider a natural approach. Certain herbal teas can help you relax and fall asleep. Chamomile is a popular herb that slows the nervous system and promotes relaxation; Kava Kava and Valerian Root are known to help reduce anxiety and nervousness and promote healthy sleeping patterns. As always, consult your health care provider, use herbs and other supplements only as directed, and make sure to read labels. Some herbs may react with certain types of medication or cause adverse effects in individuals with liver disease, Parkinson's disease, and pregnant or nursing women. Other liquids, such as a small glass of warm milk, may also help.

Know when and how to nap. When energy levels drop around 3-5 p.m., most of us desire a little shut-eye. Napping is okay, as long as you do it wisely. Most sleep counselors recommend napping for no longer than 20 minutes. Exceeding 20 minutes could leave you feeling groggier and make it harder for you to fall asleep at bedtime. If you know you have to stay up late, or if you have an erratic sleep schedule (especially new moms), take a nap during the day. You’ll be more productive and in a better mood.

Take control of your worries. Let’s face it—most of us lead very stressful lives. Stress, surprises, and changes can take a toll on your sleep habits. Schedule some downtime each day for meditative activities like stretching or a hot bath. Try to decrease your brain activity before bed by writing down your thoughts in a journal and closing the book on the day. If thinking keeps you up at night, get out of bed and try to be productive. Deal with those thoughts (pay the bill that you are worried about forgetting, make a to-do list, etc.) in a positive way, and come back to bed when you’re ready to sleep.

Get a check-up. If you toss and turn most nights, it may be time to see a physician. You could be suffering from one or more sleep disorders, including insomnia and sleep apnea. The sooner you find out what's wrong, the sooner you can fix it. Sleep disorders are dangerous to your health, so if you suspect something is wrong, tend to it immediately.

20-Minute Skin Care Routine

20-Minute Skin Care Routine
Cleanse face with gentle cleanser to suit skin type, using a cotton ball or a washcloth.

Steam face with head over bowl of steaming hot water for 2 minutes.

Apply moisturizing, purifying face mask.

Bathe or shower with a few drops of relaxing essential oil or invigorating oil in the water. You may also put used herbal tea bags, or cucumber or potato slices over your eyes to remove the bagginess around the eyes. Relax totally for 10 minutes.

Pat body dry with thick warm towels. Apply body lotion all over while skin is still moist. Take special care of feet, knees, elbows, and neck.

Remove mask with warm water and spray or splash face with mineral water.

Apply eye-soothing gel (if you are going out) or night eye cream (if you are going to bed) around eyes and on lids.

Apply moisturizer to face if going out, or your favorite night cream/oil if not.

Apply hand cream and a nail cream around cuticles.

Beauty Skin Care

Beauty
Skin Care


The Natural Way To Healthy Skin
Healthy skin is an essential part of health and natural beauty. Good skin is a reflection of inner health.

Causes of Unhealthy skin
Diet

Natural Aids for Beautiful Skin

Lime Juice
Peach Treatment
Anti-wrinkle cream
Natural Beauty Mask
To improve a dark and dull complexion
Natural Cleansing Lotion
Cabbage Mask
Tangerine Juice Treatment
Orange Tonic
Watermelon Natural Formulas
Tomato Natural Formulas
Cucumber
Whitening Lotion
Apple Tonic
Amaranth Juice Treatment
Mint Juice
Almonds
Yogurt


Causes of Unhealthy skin
Faulty diet. Refined foods like white flour, sugar and products made with them, tea, coffee, and soft drinks deplete energy, bring about wrinkles, unattractive skin and premature aging.

Lack of healthy blood. Healthy blood adds a glow to the skin and keeps it well-nourished, moist, and free from dryness and roughness.

Inadequate cleansing. Very often, our skin looks superficially clean; but they really are not. Dirt and dust particles can hide in the pores of the skin and clog sweat and sebaceous glands. Proper cleansing not only removes all the dust, dirt and make-up, which accumulate during the day, but also stops the oil-secreting sebaceous glands from getting clogged.

Diet
Diet plays an important role in maintaining the health of the skin. Diet should supply all the nutrients needed to build health, namely, protein, carbohydrates, fats, essential fatty acids and all the essential vitamins and minerals. Such a diet will consist of liberal quantities of seeds, nuts and grains, vegetables and fruits, supplemented by special protective foods like milk, vegetable oils, yogurt, honey and yeast.

Nutrients play an important role in maintaining a healthy skin.

Examples:

Your skin is unusually dry and rough. You have blackheads and whiteheads. You are probably lacking sufficient vitamin A. You could also be suffering from the deficiencies in iron, iodine and the B Vitamins. Adequate amounts of protein and vitamin C are also important.

The vitamins of the B group are important in producing beautiful skin.

Vitamin B1 aids skin health by helping to keep the circulation normal.

Vitamin B2 or riboflavin deficiency can lead to brown pigmentation, or liver spots on the skin. These ugly spots usually disappear if generous amounts of vitamin B2 are given over a period of six months. Severe riboflavin deficiency can lead to oily skin and hair and small deposits of fat under the skin of the cheeks and forehead and behind the ears. More severe deficiency of riboflavin causes the skin under the nose and at the comers of the eyes and mouth to crack and become sore.

Vitamin B6 or pyridoxine deficiency can result in dermatitis or eczema.

Niacin deficiency can also cause an eczema type of skin eruption with brown pigmentation, largely on the face, forearms and legs.

Deficiency of pantothenic acid, para-aminobenzoic acid, and biotin: This also leads to types of eczema. The symptoms will go away completely when these vitamins are generously added to the diet.

It is clear that Vitamin B plays a pivotal role in maintaining a healthy skin. So, diet that is rich in Vitamin B can go a long way in skin health. One of the important food in this connection is brewer's yeast. Even the person whose skin seems smooth and healthy usually notices improvement in texture and glow, a week after adding two or more tablespoons of brewer's yeast to the daily diet. Persons with eczema should, for an entire month, take a tablespoon of yeast stirred into citrus juice or water after each meal, between meals, and before retiring. If the diet is adequate in all other respects, the eczema is usually cured in a month 's time.
Anemia and Pale Skin: Anemia results from lack of protein, iodine, calcium, niacin, vitamin B6, vitamin B12, folic acid, cobalt, copper, and iron. Take diet rich in Vitamin B. Folic acid and vitamin B12 are especially important.

See Also: Diet For Natural Beauty

Natural Aids for Beautiful Skin
Several natural aids have been found useful in promoting healthy and beautiful skin.

Lime Juice

Lime juice is an important natural aid for healthy skin.

1. Lime Juice Formula

Squeeze lime into a bowl. Add a glass of boiled whole milk and a teaspoon of glycerin to it. Stir well and let it stay for half an hour. Apply this mixture on the face, hands and feet before going to bed at night. This treatment every night will help you to look young and beautiful. It will also help cure pimples.

2. For very oily skin

Squeeze lemon juice in a bowl of iced water. Splash this over the face, massage for five minutes and then wash off with water.

3. T o improve a dull and greasy complexion

Mix half teaspoon of lime juice with one teaspoon of cucumber juice and a few drops of rose water. Apply on the face and neck and leave on for 15 minutes. Remove with water.

4. To improve a dry and rough skin

Take an egg yolk and mix in a few drops of lime and olive oil. Spread on the face and leave it till the skin feels dry. Wash off with ordinary water and splash on cold water.

5. To relieve tired eyes

Take four tablespoons each of lime juice and iced water. Saturate cotton pads in this water and place over your closed eyelids for 10 minutes.

6. To remove freckles

Blanch and grind two almonds. Mix it with white of an egg to which half teaspoon of lime juice has been added. Spread on the face and leave it on till the skin feels dry. Then, wash off first with warm water and then with cold water.

Peach Treatment

The skin of the peach is useful in improving the complexion.

Gently massage the inside of peach peelings on the face every night for a few minutes. Don't rub off the moisture afterwards. This will cleanse the skin thoroughly and free the pores. It also has an astringent action and tightens the muscle of the face slightly, thus preventing sagging tissues.

Anti-wrinkle cream

Mix a teaspoon of olive oil with an egg. Smoothen the face and neck with it. Let it remain till the skin gets dry.

To Remove The Cream:
Add a teaspoon of soda bicarbonate to hot water. Stir. Dip a piece of cotton-wool to this mixture and use it to remove the cream.

Natural Beauty Mask

Ingredients
1 tablespoon of gram flour
1/4 teaspoon orange peel powder
1 tablespoon beaten yogurt
1 teaspoon olive oil

Mix the ingredients well and apply the paste to your face and neck. Let it remain till the skin starts feeling a little dry and then rub your face with your hands till it glows.

Wash your face first with warm water and then with cold water. This will remove all the embarrassing blemishes from the skin and make the skin soft and smooth.

To improve a dark and dull complexion

Ingredients
1 teaspoon of gram flour
pinch of turmeric powder
few drops of lime juice
1/2 teaspoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon milk

Mix the ingredients together. Apply the mixture to your skin. Leave it on for half an hour. Wash off with water.

Cleansing Lotion

To one-fourth teaspoon of lime juice stir in one teaspoon each of milk and cucumber juice. Apply on the face and neck and wash off after 14 minutes. This lotion cleanses and purifies the pores of the skin.

Cabbage Mask

Grind a couple of cabbage leaves and extract juice. Dissolve one-fourth teaspoon of yeast in it and stir in one teaspoon of honey. Mix well and apply thickly over face and neck. Keep it for 15 minutes. Remove with cotton-wool soaked in water. This mask will counteract any tendency towards wrinkles and dryness and give your skin a flower-like bloom.

Tangerine Juice Treatment

The use of orange or tangerine juice has also been found valuable for a glowing complexion.

Dip your fingers in fresh tangerine or orange juice. Apply it liberally over your face, chin, neck, and forehead. Make a paste from the powdered sun dried pips of unripe oranges. Use this paste on the pimples and acne at bed time.

Orange Tonic

Blanch and grind a couple of almonds to a paste and mix in two tablespoons of milk and one tablespoon each of carrot and orange juice. Apply thickly on face and neck and leave on for half an hour. Removes scars and blemishes from the face and makes it soft and smooth.

Watermelon Juice

The juice of water-melon is useful in the removal of blemishes on the skin.

Prepare a lotion by grating and squeezing the juice of a small slice of water-melon. Apply this lotion over the face and neck for fifteen minutes. Wash with hot water. Follow this by a splash of cold water.

Tomato

Tomato, used externally, is good for getting a good complexion.

Apply the pulp of a tomato liberally on the face. Leave this for an hour. Then wash off with warm water. Repeat this daily. You will have a good complexion. It will also remove ugly-looking pimples in a short time.

Tomato Lotion

To one tablespoon of tomato juice add a couple of drops of lime juice. Apply on face and remove after 15 minutes. It is very effective for shrinking enlarged pores.

Tomato Tonic

To two teaspoons of tomato juice add four tablespoons of buttermilk. Apply. Remove after half an hour. It is excellent for removing sunburns.

Cucumber

Grate or blend a cucumber. Apply this over the face, eyes and neck for 15 to 20 minutes. It is a great tonic for the facial skin. Regular use of cucumber prevents pimples, blackheads, wrinkles, and dryness of the face.

Whitening Lotion

To one tablespoon of cucumber juice stir in a few drops of lime juice and a dash of turmeric powder. Apply on face and neck and wash off after half an hour. Makes an excellent whitener for all types of skins.

Cucumber Lotion

Mix one tablespoon each of cucumber juice and milk and a few drops of rose water. Apply on the face and neck. Remove after 15 minutes. Makes excellent whitener for delicate skins.

Apple Tonic

Mix one tablespoon of apple juice with one-fourth teaspoon of lime juice. Leave on for 20 minutes. Makes excellent tonic for combating oily skin.

Amaranth Juice Treatment

The juice of amaranth, applied over the face with a pinch of turmeric powder, bleaches the skin, prevents it from drying and wrinkling, cures pimples and makes one look fresh.

Add to this mixture milk and lime juice. Massage the mixture delicately over the face and neck for half an hour. Wash it off with lukewarm water. Do this every night before going to bed. This is an effective skin tonic that increases and retains its beauty.

Mint Juice

Application of fresh mint juice over the face every night, cures pimples and prevents dryness of the skin. The juice can also be applied over eczema and contact dermatitis with beneficial results.

Almonds

Make a paste of almonds with mild cream and fresh rosebud paste. Apply it daily over the face. This softens and bleaches the skin and nourishes it with the choicest skin-food. Regular application of this mixture prevents the early appearance of wrinkles, blackheads, dryness of the skin, pimples. It also keeps the face refreshed.

To improve rough and dry complexion:
Take a teaspoon of almond oil and mix it with half a teaspoon each of milk cream and lime juice. Apply every night before going to bed both on the face and on the neck.

Yogurt

Yogurt is a very important natural beauty aid.

Apply yogurt on the face every morning. Wash it off after a few minutes with cold water. This will keep the complexion smooth, healthy and fresh. A mixture of yogurt and lemon juice is ideal for softening hands.

A paste of lentil and yogurt, applied as a mask, cleanses the skin and gives it a glow. Let it dry. When dried, remove it with fingertips and wash off with water.
Honey, olive oil and a mixture of turmeric and sandalwood paste are all very effective in rejuvenating dry , parched skin.

Determine Your Skin Type and Pick Appropriate Products

If you're like most people, a weekly facial does not fit in your budget. But healthy, glowing skin doesn't have to be the exclusive possession of those who can afford professional skin care. Developing a routine that keeps your particular skin clean, hydrated, and protected can help you look your best. A good daily skin care routine shouldn't take more than 10 minutes a day.

Following is a list of some steps you should incorporate into your daily skin care routine that will help to keep your skin looking and feeling healthy, clear, and youthful.


Determine Your Skin Type and Pick Appropriate Products

Step 1 - Cleansing

Step 2 - Toning

Step 3 - Moisturizing

Step 4 - Protection

Feeding the Skin


Determine Your Skin Type and Pick Appropriate Products

Normal - Skin is velvety, with small pores, and no visible acne.

Oily - Skin has enlarged pores with shiny patches. Frequent breakouts may occur on the face, back, arms, and possibly the chest.

Dry - Skin has very small, invisible pores with possible dry and itchy patches. The cheeks, arms, legs, chest, and belly may be particularly dry.

Combination- Skin is dry across the cheeks and oily on the forehead, chin, and nose. Arms may be dry and back may be oily.

Sensitive- Skin is either oily or dry with irritated and itchy patches. Skin may also be blotchy and reddened with frequent breakouts.


If you're not sure what type of skin you have, ask your dermatologist or a skin care professional. Note that skin on the body may be a different type than facial skin.

Once your skin is classified, you should choose products formulated for your skin type and use them in your daily routine. The four steps in your daily skin care routine should be cleansing, toning, moisturizing, and protecting.

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Step 1 - Cleansing
For the face, any type of soap works fine to remove dirt, but may not work as well to remove make-up. Instead, choose a facial cleansing agent in cream, water-based emulsion, lotion, or gel form that's formulated for your particular skin type. There are many different products on the market so you may want to try a few brands before you settle down on one that works best for you. Those with drier skin may want to choose cream or lotion products; those with oilier skin may want to use gel or water-based products. Those prone to breakouts may wish to use medicated soaps or lotions designed to reduce breakouts.

First, splash your face with warm water to open the pores. Apply your cleansing product to the skin in gentle upward strokes (to avoid stretching the skin and aggravating wrinkles), rinsing thoroughly with warm water for several minutes. If you use a product that must be applied with cotton balls or a cleansing towel, again, use gentle upward strokes and rinse thoroughly with warm water. Finish with a splash or two of cold water to close the pores.

This routine is same for the body. Cleanse your skin in the bath and shower with a cleansing product formulated for the body. Rinse with warm water and finish up with a dip or splash of cold.

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Step 2 - Toning
Follow-up your cleansing routine with a facial toner, which removes any residual greasiness still left on the skin from your make-up or your cleansing product. It also closes the pores, stimulates circulation, and gives the skin a porcelain-like quality. There are a variety of toners on the market so try to choose one that's formulated for your skin type. Apply the toner with a cotton ball, using the same gentle, upward strokes that you used to apply your cleanser.

Only those with very oily skin need to use a toner on the body. If you have oily skin and breakouts on areas of your body, try using a toner formulated for use on the body. Otherwise, skip to moisturizing.

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Step 3 - Moisturizing
All skin types, even oily skin, need a moisturizer everyday. But like toners and cleansers, there are different types of moisturizers for different types of skin. If you have dry skin you should choose a moisturizer containing oil (such as petrolatum); if you have oily skin you should choose water-based creams and oil-free formulations. You may also wish to choose different moisturizers for the face and body; facial moisturizers tend to be more expensive and complex for your most delicate skin.

Many moisturizing creams contain alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), which are fruit- and milk-based acids that help to remove the dull layer of surface skin and expose fresh skin below. AHAs can reduce the appearance of pores and fine wrinkles. If you have sensitive skin, you may wish to avoid these products since they can cause breakouts.

If you have sensitive skin you should look for hypo-allergenic products, which are usually free of perfumes and dyes that can cause skin irritation. If you go out in the sun daily, it's a good idea to choose a moisturizer containing a sunscreen.

The moisturizer should be applied to the face in upward strokes. Apply to the body in gentle strokes, applying the most moisturizer to your belly, chest, calves, thighs, and forearms.

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Step 4 - Protection
The most important step you can take to protect your skin is to apply a sunscreen everyday. Use at least an SPF 10 to your face and exposed areas of your body whenever you are going to be out in the sun. Many moisturizers contain SPF 10-15 sunscreen, or you may wish apply a separate product that is specifically a sunscreen with a higher SPF level. Whichever option you choose, make sure you buy a sunscreen suitable for your skin type.

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Feeding the Skin
A critical step required to get healthy and glowing skin is to eat a balanced diet containing plenty of Vitamins A, C, D and E. Vitamins C and E help to prevent skin damage from free radicals which can cause visible lines and wrinkles. Vitamin C also helps the body to produce and maintain healthy collagen levels. Vitamin A helps to prevent sun damage and Vitamins C and D (which is applied topically) help with skin healing. The following table lists some common food sources that contain these essential vitamins for your skin.

Common Foods than Contain Vitamins A, C, D and E Vitamin A Yellow and orange fruits and vegetables, dark green leafy vegetables, whole eggs, whole milk, and liver
Vitamin C Citrus fruits, tomatoes, broccoli, green peppers, cantaloupe, and strawberries
Vitamin D Only a few foods naturally contain significant amounts of vitamin D, including fatty fish and fish oils. Milk is usually fortified with Vitamin D. Exposure to sunlight is another source of vitamin D, but exposure to sun should be limited.
Vitamin E Vegetable oils, nuts, and green leafy vegetables and many fortified cereals


Essential fatty acids found in vegetable oils, fish such as salmon and tuna, and nuts help to nourish and hydrate the skin, and give it a glowing complexion.

It's also important that you get enough sleep daily -- 8 hours or so -- and find at least a little time to exercise. Improving circulation improves the complexion; just a 20 minute walk daily can keep skin luminous.

» See All Healthy Habits Information More Healthy Habits InformationSlide show: How the sun damages your skin Sunless tanning: A safe alternative to sunbathing Skin care: Top 5 habits for healthy skin Protecting Your Skin From the Sun - Topic Overview Slide show: How to trim thickened toenails The dark side of tanning: How the sun damages your skin Tanning beds: Are they safer than the sun? Aging Skin Skin Care Living With Acne Hair Care Keep Your Skin Healthy More About Beauty: Overview | Treatments | Healthy Habits | Additional Resources
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Health Benefits

Health Benefits
How sweet it is for your health to eat sweet potatoes! Not only do they taste like dessert, here's the latest research on sweet potatoes surprising benefits.

Unique Proteins with Potent Antioxidant Effects
Recent research studies on sweet potato focus on two areas of unique health benefit. First are some unique root storage proteins in this food that have been observed to have significant antioxidant capacities. In one study, these proteins had about one-third the antioxidant activity of glutathione - one of the body's most impressive internally produced antioxidants. Although future studies are needed in this area, count on these root proteins to help explain sweet potatoes' healing properties.

An "Antidiabetic" Food
Second is the recent classification of sweet potato as an "antidiabetic" food. Sweet potato has been given this label because of some recent animal studies in which sweet potato helped stabilize blood sugar levels and lowered insulin resistance. (Insulin resistance is a problem caused when cells don't respond to the hormone insulin, which is supposed to act as a key and unlock the cell in order to allow sugar to pass from the blood into the cell). Some of its blood sugar regulatory properties may come from come from the fact that sweet potatoes are concentrated in carotenoids. Research has suggested that physiological levels, as well as dietary intake, of carotenoids may be inversely associated with insulin resistance and high blood sugar levels. Once again, more research is needed in this area, but the stage is set for sweet potato to show unique healing properties in the area of blood sugar control.

A Sweet Source of Good Nutrition
Our food ranking system also showed sweet potato to be a strong performer in terms of traditional nutrients. This root vegetable qualified as an excellent source of vitamin A (in the form of beta-carotene), a very good source of vitamin C and manganese, and a good source of copper, dietary fiber, vitamin B6, potassium and iron. How do these sweet potato components support our health?

An Antioxidant-Rich, Anti-Inflammatory Food
As an excellent source of vitamin A (in the form of beta-carotene) and a very good source of vitamin C, sweet potatoes have healing properties as an antioxidant food. Both beta-carotene and vitamin C are very powerful antioxidants that work in the body to eliminate free radicals. Free radicals are chemicals that damage cells and cell membranes and are associated with the development of conditions like atherosclerosis, diabetic heart disease, and colon cancer. This may explain why beta-carotene and vitamin C have both been shown to be helpful for preventing these conditions.

Since these nutrients are also anti-inflammatory, they can be helpful in reducing the severity of conditions where inflammation plays a role, such as asthma, osteoarthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis. In addition, sweet potatoes are a good source of vitamin B6, which is needed to convert homocysteine, an interim product created during an important chemical process in cells called methylation, into other benign molecules. Since high homocysteine levels are associated with an increased risk of heart attack and stroke, having a little extra vitamin B6 on hand is a good idea.



Protection against Emphysema
If you or someone you love is a smoker, or if you are frequently exposed to secondhand smoke, then making vitamin A-rich foods, such as sweet potatoes, part of your healthy way of eating, may save your life, suggests research conducted at Kansas State University.

While studying the relationship between vitamin A, lung inflammation, and emphysema, Richard Baybutt, associate professor of nutrition at Kansas State, made a surprising discovery: a common carcinogen in cigarette smoke, benzo(a)pyrene, induces vitamin A deficiency.

Baybutt's earlier research had shown that rats fed a vitamin A-deficient diet developed emphysema. His latest animal studies indicate that not only does the benzo(a)pyrene in cigarette smoke cause vitamin A deficiency, but that a diet rich in vitamin A can help counter this effect, thus greatly reducing emphysema.

In his initial research, Baybutt took just weaned male rats and divided them into two groups, one of which was exposed to cigarette smoke, and the other to air. In the rats exposed to cigarette smoke, levels of vitamin A dropped significantly in direct correlation with their development of emphysema. In the second study, both groups of rats were exposed to cigarette smoke, but one group was given a diet rich in vitamin A. Among those rats receiving the vitamin A-rich foods, emphysema was effectively reduced.

Baybutt believes vitamin A's protective effects may help explain why some smokers do not develop emphysema. "There are a lot of people who live to be 90 years old and are smokers," he said. "Why? Probably because of their diet…The implications are that those who start smoking at an early age are more likely to become vitamin A deficient and develop complications associated with cancer and emphysema. And if they have a poor diet, forget it." If you or someone you love smokes, or if your work necessitates exposure to second hand smoke, protect yourself by making sure at least one of the World's Healthiest Foods that are rich in vitamin A, such as sweet potatoes, is a daily part of your healthy way of eating. (October 21, 2004)

So, the next time you have the urge for something sweet, how about a thick slice of sweet potato pie? It's one dessert guaranteed to satisfy your whole body, not just your sweet tooth.

Description
Depending upon the sweet potato variety, of which there are about 400, its flesh may be either white, yellow or orange, and its thin skin may either be white, yellow, orange, red or purple. Sometimes this root vegetable will be shaped like a potato, being short and blocky with rounded ends, while other times it will be longer with tapered ends.

Sweet potatoes are grouped into two different categories depending upon the texture they have when cooked: some are firm, dry, and mealy, while others are soft and moist. In both types, the taste is starchy and sweet with different varieties having different unique tastes.

The moist-fleshed, orange-colored root vegetable that is often thought of as a "yam" is actually a sweet potato. It was given this name after this variety of sweet potato was introduced into the United States in the mid-20th century in order to distinguish it from the white-fleshed sweet potato to which most people were accustomed. The name "yam" was adopted from "nyami", the African word for the root of the Dioscoreae genus of plants which are considered true yams. While there are attempts to distinguish between the two, such as the mandatory labeling by the U.S. Department of Agriculture that the moist-fleshed, orange-colored sweet potatoes that are labeled as "yams" also be accompanied by the label "sweet potato", when many people hear the term "yam" they usually think of the orange-colored sweet potato as opposed to the true yam, the traditional Dioscoreae family root vegetable.

Sweet potatoes belong to the Convolvulaceae plant family and are known by the scientific name of Ipomoea batatas.

History
Sweet potatoes are native to Central America and are one of the oldest vegetables known to man. They have been consumed since prehistoric times as evidenced by sweet potato relics dating back 10,000 years that have been discovered in Peruvian caves.

Christopher Columbus brought sweet potatoes to Europe after his first voyage to the New World in 1492. By the 16th century, they were brought to the Philippines by Spanish explorers and to Africa, India, Indonesia and southern Asia by the Portuguese. Around this same time, sweet potatoes began to be cultivated in the southern United States, where they still remain a staple food in the traditional cuisine. In the mid-20th century, the orange-fleshed sweet potato was introduced to the United States and given the name "yam" to distinguish it from other sweet potatoes. Sweet potatoes are a featured food in many Asian and Latin American cultures. Today, the main commercial producers of sweet potatoes include China, Indonesia, Vietnam, Japan, India and Uganda.

How to Select and Store
Choose sweet potatoes that are firm and do not have any cracks, bruises or soft spots. Avoid those that are displayed in the refrigerated section of the produce department since cold temperature negatively alters their taste.

Sweet potatoes should be stored in a cool, dark and well-ventilated place, where they will keep fresh for up to ten days. They should be stored loose and not kept in a plastic bag. Keep them away from exposure to sunlight or temperatures above 60°F since this will cause them to sprout or ferment. Uncooked sweet potatoes should not be kept in the refrigerator.

How to Enjoy
For some of our favorite recipes, click Recipes.

Tips for Preparing Sweet Potatoes:
If you purchase organically grown sweet potatoes, you can eat the entire tuber, flesh and skin. Yet, if you buy conventionally grown ones, you should peel them before eating since sometimes the skin is treated with dye or wax; if preparing the sweet potato whole, just peel it after cooking.

As the flesh of sweet potatoes will darken upon contact with the air, you should cook them immediately after peeling and/or cutting them. If this is not possible, to prevent oxidation, keep them in a bowl covered completely with water until you are ready to cook them.

A Few Quick Serving Ideas:
Purée cooked sweet potatoes with bananas, maple syrup and cinnamon. Top with chopped walnuts.

Steam cubed sweet potatoes, tofu, and broccoli. Mix in raisins and serve hot or cold with a curried vinaigrette dressing.

Desserts made with sweet potatoes are an autumn favorite but can be enjoyed year round. Try making sweet potato pie, bread, muffins or pudding.

Baked sweet potatoes are delicious even when served cold and therefore make a great food to pack in to-go lunches.

Safety
Sweet Potatoes and Oxalates
Sweet potatoes are among a small number of foods that contain any measurable amount of oxalates, naturally-occurring substances found in plants, animals, and human beings. When oxalates become too concentrated in body fluids, they can crystallize and cause health problems. For this reason, individuals with already existing and untreated kidney or gallbladder problems may want to avoid eating sweet potatoes. Oxalates may also interfere with absorption of calcium from the body. For this reason, individuals trying to increase their calcium stores may want to avoid sweet potatoes, or if taking calcium supplements, may want to eat sweet potatoes 2-3 hours before or after taking their supplements.

Nutritional Profile
Introduction to Food Rating System Chart
The following chart shows the nutrients for which this food is either an excellent, very good or good source. Next to the nutrient name you will find the following information: the amount of the nutrient that is included in the noted serving of this food; the %Daily Value (DV) that that amount represents (similar to other information presented in the website, this DV is calculated for 25-50 year old healthy woman); the nutrient density rating; and, the food's World's Healthiest Foods Rating. Underneath the chart is a table that summarizes how the ratings were devised. Read detailed information on our Food and Recipe Rating System.

Sweet Potato (small, baked with skin)
1.00 each
95.39 calories
Nutrient Amount DV
(%) Nutrient
Density World's Healthiest
Foods Rating
vitamin A 13107.70 IU 262.2 49.5 excellent
vitamin C 17.06 mg 28.4 5.4 very good
manganese 0.52 mg 26.0 4.9 very good
copper 0.26 mg 13.0 2.5 good
dietary fiber 3.14 g 12.6 2.4 good
vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) 0.25 mg 12.5 2.4 good
potassium 306.05 mg 8.7 1.7 good
iron 1.46 mg 8.1 1.5 good
World's Healthiest
Foods Rating Rule
excellent DV>=75% OR Density>=7.6 AND DV>=10%
very good DV>=50% OR Density>=3.4 AND DV>=5%
good DV>=25% OR Density>=1.5 AND DV>=2.5%

Sweet potato, with skin

Sweet potato, with skin
Although sweet potatoes may be part of the Thanksgiving tradition, be sure to add these wonderful naturally sweet vegetables to your meals throughout the year; they are some of the most nutritious vegetables around. Sweet potatoes can be found in your local markets year-round, however they are in season in November and December.

The sweet potato has yellow or orange flesh, and its thin skin may either be white, yellow, orange, red or purple. Sometimes this root vegetable will be shaped like a potato, being short and blocky with rounded ends, while other times it will be longer with tapered ends. There is often much confusion between sweet potatoes and yams; the moist-fleshed, orange-colored root vegetable that is often called a "yam" is actually a sweet potato

A breast implant

A breast implant is a prosthesis used in cosmetic surgery to enlarge the size of a woman's breasts (known as breast augmentation) or to reconstruct the breast (for example, after a mastectomy, or during male-to-female sex reassignment surgery). There are four types of breast implant:

Saline-filled, which have a silicone shell filled with sterile saline liquid. These implants are currently the only type available in the United States, but future regulation may make more available.
Silicone gel-filled, which have a silicone shell filled with silicone gel. In the 60 countries where silicone implants are available, they are used in approximately 90% of implant operations. The implantation of silicone gel-filled breast implants is currently illegal in the US.
String implant, a third, much less common type of implant, is a method of achieving extreme breast sizes, initially developed by Dr. Gerald W. Johnson, M.D.P.A., using polypropylene (PPP). String implants are unique in that they cause the breast to continue expanding after surgery, and are preferred by those women who choose to have the largest breasts possible, including many adult entertainers. String implants were eliminated years ago by the FDA due to the complications brought about by continuous growth after implantation.
Tissue engineered implant, a new form of implant currently in development. The principle is that cells are taken from tissue artificially grown from human stem cells, which are then combined with an appropriate scaffold material to produce a Tissue Engineered Breast Implant.[1] The advantage of this method is that there is no risk of leakage or rupture, and the size can remain stable for the lifetime of the patient, a contrast from the silicone or saline filled implants which typically reduce by approximately 40%.

breast lift...

If you're considering a breast lift...

Over the years, factors such as pregnancy, nursing, and the force of gravity take their toll on a woman's breasts. As the skin loses its elasticity, the breasts often lose their shape and firmness and begin to sag. Breastlift, or mastopexy, is a surgical procedure to raise and reshape sagging breasts--at least, for a time. (No surgery can permanently delay the effects of gravity.) Mastopexy can also reduce the size of the areola, the darker skin surrounding the nipple. If your breasts are small or have lost volume--for example, after pregnancy--breast implants inserted in conjunction with mastopexy can increase both their firmness and their size. If you're considering a breast lift, this brochure will give you a basic understanding of the procedure--when it can help, how it's performed, and what results you can expect. It can't answer all of your questions, since a lot depends on your individual circumstances. Please be sure to ask your doctor if there is anything about the procedure you don't understand.

THE BEST CANDIDATES FOR BREAST LIFT

A breast lift can enhance your appearance and your self-confidence, but it won't necessarily change your looks to match your ideal, or cause other people to treat you differently. Before you decide to have surgery, think carefully about your expectations and discuss them with your surgeon.

The best candidates for mastopexy are healthy, emotionally-stable women who are realistic about what the surgery can accomplish. The best results are usually achieved in women with small, sagging breasts. Breasts of any size can be lifted, but the results may not last as long in heavy breasts.

Many women seek mastopexy because pregnancy and nursing have left them with stretched skin and less volume in their breasts. However, if you're planning to have more children, it may be a good idea to postpone your breast lift. While there are no special risks that affect future pregnancies (for example, mastopexy usually doesn't interfere with breast-feeding), pregnancy is likely to stretch your breasts again and offset the results of the procedure.

ALL SURGERY CARRIES SOME UNCERTAINTY AND RISK

A breast lift is not a simple operation, but it's normally safe when performed by a qualified plastic surgeon. Nevertheless, as with any surgery, there is always a possibility of complications or a reaction to the anesthesia. Bleeding and infection following a breast lift are uncommon, but they can cause scars to widen. You can reduce your risks by closely following your physician's advice both before and after surgery.

Mastopexy does leave noticeable, permanent scars, although they'll be covered by your bra or bathing suit. (Poor healing and wider scars are more common in smokers.) The procedure can also leave you with unevenly positioned nipples, or a permanent loss of feeling in your nipples or breasts.

PLANNING YOUR SURGERY

In your initial consultation, it's important to discuss your expectations frankly with your surgeon, and to listen to his or her opinion. Every patient--and every physician, as well--has a different view of what is a desirable size and shape for breasts.

The surgeon will examine your breasts and measure them while you're sitting or standing. He or she will discuss the variables that may affect the procedure--such as your age, the size and shape of your breasts, and the condition of your skin--and whether an implant is advisable. You should also discuss where the nipple and areola will be positioned; they'll be moved higher during the procedure, and should be approximately even with the crease beneath your breast.

Your surgeon should describe the procedure in detail, explaining its risks and limitations and making sure you understand the scarring that will result. He or she should also explain the anesthesia to be used, the type of facility where the surgery will be performed, and the costs involved.

Don't hesitate to ask your doctor any questions you may have, especially those regarding your expectations and concerns about the results.

PREPARING FOR YOUR SURGERY

Depending on your age and family history, your surgeon may require you to have a mammogram (breast x-ray) before surgery. You'll also get specific instructions on how to prepare for surgery, including guidelines on eating and drinking, smoking, and taking or avoiding certain vitamins and medications.

While you're making preparations, be sure to arrange for someone to drive you home after your surgery and to help you out for a few days if needed.

WHERE YOUR SURGERY WILL BE PERFORMED

Your breast lift may be performed in a hospital, an outpatient surgery center, or a surgeon's office-based facility. It's usually done on an outpatient basis, for cost containment and convenience. If you're admitted to the hospital as an inpatient, you can expect to stay one or two days.

TYPES OF ANESTHESIA

Breast lifts are usually performed under general anesthesia, which means you'll sleep through the operation. In selected patients--particularly when a smaller incision is being made--the surgeon may use local anesthesia, combined with a sedative to make you drowsy. You'll be awake but relaxed, and will feel minimal discomfort.

THE SURGERY

Mastopexy usually takes one and a half to three and a half hours. Techniques vary, but the most common procedure involves an anchor-shaped incision following the natural contour of the breast.

The incision outlines the area from which breast skin will be removed and defines the new location for the nipple. When the excess skin has been removed, the nipple and areola are moved to the higher position. The skin surrounding the areola is then brought down and together to reshape the breast. Stitches are usually located around the areola, in a vertical line extending downwards from the nipple area, and along the lower crease of the breast.

Some patients, especially those with relatively small breasts and minimal sagging, may be candidates for modified procedures requiring less extensive incisions. One such procedure is the "doughnut (or concentric) mastopexy," in which circular incisions are made around the areola, and a doughnut-shaped area of skin is removed.

If you're having an implant inserted along with your breast lift, it will be placed in a pocket directly under the breast tissue, or deeper, under the muscle of the chest wall.

AFTER YOUR SURGERY

After surgery, you'll wear an elastic bandage or a surgical bra over gauze dressings. Your breasts will be bruised, swollen, and uncomfortable for a day or two, but the pain shouldn't be severe. Any discomfort you do feel can be relieved with medications prescribed by your surgeon.

Within a few days, the bandages or surgical bra will be replaced by a soft support bra. You'll need to wear this bra around the clock for three to four weeks, over a layer of gauze. The stitches will be removed after a week or two.

If your breast skin is very dry following surgery, you can apply a moisturizer several times a day. Be careful not to tug at your skin in the process, and keep the moisturizer away from the suture areas.

You can expect some loss of feeling in your nipples and breast skin, caused by the swelling after surgery. This numbness usually fades as the swelling subsides over the next six weeks or so. In some patients, however, it may last a year or more, and occasionally it may be permanent.

GETTING BACK TO NORMAL

Healing is a gradual process. Although you may be up and about in a day or two, don't plan on returning to work for a week or more, depending on how you feel. And avoid lifting anything over your head for three to four weeks. If you have any unusual symptoms, don't hesitate to call your surgeon.

Your surgeon will give you detailed instructions for resuming your normal activities. You may be instructed to avoid sex for a week or more, and to avoid strenuous sports for about a month. After that, you can resume these activities slowly. If you become pregnant, the operation should not affect your ability to breast-feed, since your milk ducts and nipples will be left intact.

If you're considering chemical peel...

If you're considering chemical peel...

Chemical peel uses a chemical solution to improve and smooth the texture of the facial skin by removing its damaged outer layers. It is helpful for those individuals with facial blemishes, wrinkles and uneven skin pigmentation. Phenol, trichloroacetic acid (TCA) and alphahydroxy acids (AHAs) are used for this purpose. The precise formula used may be adjusted to meet each patient's needs. Although chemical peel may be performed in conjunction with a facelift, it is not a substitute for such surgery, nor will it prevent or slow the aging process. This brochure provides basic information about certain types of chemical peel treatments and the results you might expect. It won't answer all your questions, since a lot depends on your individual circumstances. Once you and your plastic surgeon have decided on a specific peel program, be sure to ask about any details that you do not understand.

Deciding if chemical peel is right for you Chemical peel is most commonly performed for cosmetic reasons -- to enhance your appearance and your self confidence. Chemical peel may also remove pre-cancerous skin growths, soften acne facial scars and even control acne. In certain cases, health insurance may cover the peel procedure. Be sure to check your policy and contact your insurance company before the procedure is performed.

Alphahydroxy acids (AHAs), such as glycolic, lactic, or fruit acids are the mildest of the peel formulas and produce light peels. These types of peels can provide smoother, brighter-looking skin for people who can't spare the time to recover from a phenol or TCA peel. AHA peels may be used to treat fine wrinkling, areas of dryness, uneven pigmentation and acne. Various concentrations of an AHA may be applied weekly or at longer intervals to obtain the best result. Your doctor will make this decision during your consultation and as the treatment proceeds. An alphahydroxy acid, such as glycolic acid, can also be mixed with a facial wash or cream in lesser concentrations as part of a daily skin-care regimen to improve the skin's texture.

Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) can be used in many concentrations, but it is most commonly used for medium-depth peeling. Fine surface wrinkles, superficial blemishes and pigment problems are commonly treated with TCA. The results of TCA peel are usually less dramatic than and not as long-lasting as those of a phenol peel. In fact, more than one TCA peel may be needed to achieve the desired result. The recovery from a TCA peel is usually shorter than with a phenol peel.

Phenol is the strongest of the chemical solutions and produces a deep peel. It is used mainly to treat patients with coarse facial wrinkles, areas of blotchy or damaged skin caused by sun exposure, or pre-cancerous growths. Since phenol sometimes lightens the treated areas, your skin pigmentation may be a determining factor as to whether or not this is an appropriate treatment for you. Phenol is primarily used on the face; scarring may result if it's applied to the neck or other body areas.

All chemical peels carry some uncertainty and risk. Chemical peel is normally a safe procedure when it is performed by a qualified, experienced plastic surgeon. However, some unpredictability and risks such as infection and scarring, while infrequent, are possible.

AHA peels may cause stinging, redness, irritation and crusting. However, as the skin adjusts to the treatment regimen, these problems will subside.

With a TCA peel, your healed skin will be able to produce pigment as always; the peel will not bleach the skin. However, TCA-peel patients are advised to avoid sun exposure for several months after treatment to protect the newly formed layers of skin. Even though TCA is milder than phenol, it may also produce some unintended color changes in the skin.

With a phenol peel, the new skin frequently loses its ability to make pigment (that is, tan). This means that not only will the skin be lighter in color, but you'll always have to protect it from the sun. Phenol may pose a special risk for patients with a history of heart disease. It's important that you make your surgeon aware of any heart problems when your medical history is taken.

It is also possible that phenol will cause some undesired cosmetic results, such as uneven pigment changes. Certain modified phenol peels are gentler and may be preferred in some circumstances.

PEEL FORMULAS AT A GLANCE

Alphahydroxy acids (AHAs)
Uses:

Smooths rough, dry skin
Improves texture of sun-damaged skin
Aids in control of acne
Can be mixed with bleaching agent to correct pigment problems
Can be used as TCA pre-treatment
Considerations:

A series of peels may be needed
As with most peel treatments, sunblock use is recommended
Trichloroacetic acid (TCA)
Uses:

Smooths out fine surface wrinkles
Removes superficial blemishes
Corrects pigment problems
Considerations:

Can be used on neck or other body areas
May require pre-treatment with Retin-A or AHA creams
Treatment takes only 10-15 minutes
Preferred for darker-skinned patients
Peel depth can be adjusted
Repeat treatment may be needed to maintain results
Sunblock must be used for several months
Healing is usually quick, much quicker than with a phenol peel
Phenol
Uses:

Corrects blotches caused by: sun exposure, birth-control pills, aging
Smooths out coarse wrinkles
Removes pre-cancerous growths
Considerations:

Used on the face only
Not recommended for dark-skinned individuals
Procedure may pose risk for patients with heart problems
Full-face treatment may take one hour or more
Recovery may be slow - Complete healing may take several months
May permanently remove facial freckles
Sun protection, including sunblock, must always be used
Results are dramatic and long-lasting
Permanent skin lightening and lines of demarcation may occur
PLANNING FOR A CHEMICAL PEEL

In some states, no medical degree is required to perform a chemical peel - even the strongest phenol peels. Many states have laws that permit non-physicians to administer certain peel solutions, but regulate the strengths which they are permitted to apply. You should be warned that phenol and TCA peels have been offered by inadequately trained practitioners claiming "miracletechniques" to rejuvenate the skin.

It is very important that you find a physician who has adequate training and experience in skin resurfacing. Your plastic surgeon may offer you a choice of peel techniques or suggest a combination of peels to obtain the best result for you.

During your initial consultation, it is important that you discuss your expectations with your plastic surgeon. Don't hesitate to ask any questions or express any concerns that you may have. Expect your plastic surgeon to explain the planned procedure in detail, including its risks and benefits, the recovery period and the costs. If you have a history of herpes, you should inform your physician prior to the procedure. Remember, chemical peel treatments are usually not covered by medical insurance unless they are performed for medically related problems.

PREPARING FOR YOUR CHEMICAL PEEL

Your plastic surgeon will instruct you on how to prepare for your peel treatment.

Sometimes Retin A - a prescription medication derived from Vitamin A - is used to pre-treat the skin. This thins out the skin's surface layer, allowing the TCA solution to penetrate more deeply and evenly. If your skin won't tolerate Retin-A pre-treatment, an AHA cream may be used instead. Hydroquinone, a bleaching agent, is sometimes used in conjunction with Retin-A or AHA pre-treatment, especially if you have blotchy skin areas or pigmentation problems. You may have to spend a month or more in the pre-treatment phase before the doctor will schedule your actual peel.

You will need to arrange for someone to drive you home and help you out for a day or two if you are having a phenol or deeper TCA peel. You probably won't need any extra assistance if you're having an AHA peel or superficial TCA peel.

WHERE YOUR PEEL WILL BE PERFORMED

Most chemical peels may be safely performed in a plastic surgeon's office, office-based surgical facility or outpatient surgical center. Your plastic surgeon may want you to stay overnight in a facility or hospital if other cosmetic procedures are performed simultaneously.

TYPES OF ANESTHESIA

Anesthesia isn't required for phenol or TCA peels because the chemical solution acts as an anesthetic. However, sedation may be used before and during the procedure to relax you and keep you comfortable.

No anesthesia is needed for AHA peels since they cause only a slight stinging sensation during application.

THE PEEL

AHA peels/treatments: Your doctor will apply the AHA solution to your cleansed facial skin, a process that usually takes no more than 10 minutes. No "after-peel" ointment or covering is required. Depending on the strength of the peel, periodic treatmentsmay be necessary until the desired effects are achieved.

For some patients, the application of an AHA-based face wash or cream once or twice a day at home will be sufficient to accomplish the desired goal. Your plastic surgeon may add Retin-A or a bleaching agent to your at-home treatment schedule. After several weeks of at-home use, your doctor will examine your skin to determine if your regimen needs adjustment.

Phenol and TCA peels: Typically, the skin is first thoroughly cleansed. Then, the surgeon will carefully apply the phenol or TCA solution. You may feel a stinging sensation as the peel solution is applied, but this feeling will quickly pass.

A full-face TCA peel usually takes no more than 15 minutes. Two or more TCA peels may be needed to obtain the desired result, and those may be spaced out over several months. Mild TCA peels may be repeated as often as every month.

If phenol solution has been used, your plastic surgeon may coat the treated area with petroleum jelly or a waterproof adhesive tape. With lighter peels, no covering is necessary.

A full-face phenol peel generally takes one or two hours to perform, while a phenol peel to a smaller facial region (perhaps the skin above the upper lip) may take only 10 or 15 minutes. A single treatment usually suffices.

AFTER YOUR TREATMENT

After an AHA peel, it is common to experience some temporary flaking or scaling, redness and dryness of the skin. However, these conditions will disappear as the skin adjusts to treatment.

After a phenol or TCA peel, your doctor may prescribe a mild pain medication to relieve any tingling or throbbing you may feel. If tape was used to cover your face, it will be removed after a day or two. A crust or scab will form on the treated area. To help your face heal properly, it is essential that you follow your doctor's specific post-operative instructions.

A TCA peel may also cause significant swelling, depending on the strength of the peel used.

If you've had a phenol peel, your face may become quite swollen. Your eyes may even be swollen shut temporarily. You will need someone to help care for you for a day or two. You may also be limited to a liquid diet and advised not to talk very much during the first few days of recovery.

GETTING BACK TO NORMAL

With an AHA peel, the temporary redness, flaking and dryness that you experience will not prevent you from working or engaging in your normal activities. A fresher and improved skin texture will result with continued AHA treatments. Remember, protecting your skin from the sun is also important following these mild acid peels. Ask your doctor to recommend a sunblock with adequate UVA and UVB protection and use it every day.

With a TCA peel, the moderate discomfort and mild swelling you may experience will subside within the first week. In about a week to ten days, your new skin will be apparent and you should be healed sufficiently to return to your normal activities. It is best to avoid sun exposure unless you are adequately protected.

With a phenol peel, new skin will begin to form in about seven to ten days. Your face will be very red at first, gradually fading to a pinkish color over the following weeks to months. During this time, it is especially important that you use a sunblock or blotchy, irregular skin coloring may result.

About two weeks after treatment, you may return to work and resume some of your normal activities. Your skin will be healed enough for you to wear makeup. (For makeup tips, ask your plastic surgeon for the ASPS brochure on camouflage cosmetics.)

Intracapsular rupture

Intracapsular rupture - with capsule created by the body to wall off (silicone implant) foreign object
Extracapsular rupture - Single lumen silicone implants ruptured a few years before their removal in 2004Implants should not be expected to last a lifetime. When saline breast implants break, they often deflate quickly and can usually be easily removed. Silicone gel breast implants are more of a concern, because when they break they rarely deflate, and the silicone from the implant can leak and migrate outside of the scar tissue that the body creates around the implant. This is known as "extracapsular silicone." The health effects of extracapsular silicone are still being investigated. See Breast Implants Risks & Controversy

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Capsular Contracture
Capsules of tightly-woven collagen fibers naturally form around a foreign body (eg. breast implants, pacemakers, orthopedic joint prosthetics, etc..), tending to wall it off. Most of the time, these tissue capsules are soft-to-firm, and unnoticeable. Capsular contracture occurs when the capsule tightens and squeezes the implant. This contracture is a complication that can be painful and distort the appearance of the implanted breast. Bacterial contamination, gel implant rupture or leakage, and hematoma are the main identified factors in these complications. However, the exact mechanism of capsular contracture in most cases is never identified. Correction of capsular contracture ranges from surgical removal of the implant capsule tissue to removal (and possible replacement) of the implant itself. Capsular contracture may happen again after this additional surgery. There are four grades of capsular contracture, from soft to hard and painful.

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Hematoma/Seroma
Hematoma is a collection of blood inside a body cavity and a seroma is a collection of the watery portion of the blood around the implant or around healing. A small scar can form or a rupture may occur if the implant is damaged during draining the incision. Post-operative hematoma and seroma may contribute to infection or capsular contracture.

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Changes in Nipple and Breast Sensation
Feeling in the nipple and breast can increase or decrease after implant surgery. The range of changes varies from intense to no feeling in the nipple or breast after surgery. Changes in feeling can be temporary or permanent and may affect sexual response or the ability to nurse a baby.

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Extrusion
Unstable or weakened tissue covering and/or interruption of wound healing may result in extrusion, (when the breast implant comes through the skin). Surgery needed to correct this can result in unacceptable scarring or breast tissue loss.

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Necrosis
Necrosis, the death of tissue around the implant, may prevent wound healing and require surgical correction and/or implant removal. A permanent scar may form.

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Tissue Atrophy/Chest Wall Deformity
Pressure of the breast implant may cause the breast tissue to thin and shrink. This can occur while implants are still in place or following implant removal without replacement.

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Mammography
Compression on the breast during mammography can cause implant rupture. Breast implants may require additional displacement images to be taken. In addition to making tumors more difficult to detect, implants cause "false positive" results as well when extensive scarring and calcium deposits mimic the appearance of cancer, making the deposits difficult to distinguish from tumors on a mammogram.[20] Biopsy may be necessary to determine whether these are cancerous.

Specific mammogram techniques have been developed to ensure that as much breast tissue as possible is examined in the woman with implants. This requires taking extra images, called displacement views, which expose the woman to more radiation. In 2004, Miglioretti and her colleagues published a study in the Journal of the American Medical Association indicating that 55% of breast tumors were not initially detected on mammograms for women with implants, although the extra images were used.[21] This compares to about 30% of tumors that were not initially detected for women who did not have breast implants. These tumors were subsequently detected in later mammograms. Another problem is that calcium deposits can be seen on mammograms and can be mistaken for possible cancer, resulting in additional surgery to biopsy or remove the implant to distinguish these deposits from cancer. Calcium deposits may be felt as modules or bumps under the skin around the implant. The displacement views do not protect against rupture, which becomes a greater problem as implants age. Dr. Lori Brown, an FDA scientist, published an article in 2004 in the Journal of Women's Health, indicating that the FDA has received dozens of reports of implants rupturing or leaking during mammography.[22] Sonograms and MRIs can be used to detect breast cancer instead of mammograms, but this adds to the cost of screening and may not be covered by health insurance.[17]

If you're considering breast augmentation...

If you're considering breast augmentation...

Breast augmentation, technically known as augmentation mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure to enhance the size and shape of a woman's breast for a number of reasons:

To enhance the body contour of a woman who, for personal reasons, feels her breast size is too small.
To correct a reduction in breast volume after pregnancy.
To balance a difference in breast size.
As a reconstructive technique following breast surgery.
By inserting an implant behind each breast, surgeons are able to increase a woman's bustline by one or more bra cup sizes. If you're considering breast augmentation, this will give you a basic understanding of the procedure--when it can help, how it's performed, and what results you can expect. It can't answer all of your questions, since a lot depends on your individual circumstances. Please ask your surgeon if there is anything you don't understand about the procedure.

THE BEST CANDIDATES FOR BREAST AUGMENTATION

Breast augmentation can enhance your appearance and your self-confidence, but it won't necessarily change your looks to match your ideal, or cause other people to treat you differently. Before you decide to have surgery, think carefully about your expectations and discuss them with your surgeon.

The best candidates for breast augmentation are women who are looking for improvement, not perfection, in the way they look. If you're physically healthy and realistic in your expectations, you may be a good candidate.

TYPES OF IMPLANTS

A breast implant is a silicone shell filled with either silicone gel or a salt-water solution known as saline.

Because of concerns that there is insufficient information demonstrating the safety of silicone gel-filled breast implants, the Food & Drug Administration (FDA) has determined that new gel-filled implants, at the present time, should be available only to women participating in approved studies. Some women requiring replacement of the implants may also be eligible to participate in the study.

Saline-filled implants continue to be available to breast augmentation patients on an unrestricted basis, pending further FDA review. You should ask your doctor more about the specifics of the FDA decisions.

ALL SURGERY CARRIES SOME UNCERTAINTY AND RISK

Breast augmentation is relatively straightforward. But as with any operation, there are risks associated with surgery and specific complications associated with this procedure.

The most common problem, capsular contracture, occurs if the scar or capsule around the implant begins to tighten. This squeezing of the soft implant can cause the breast to feel hard. Capsular contracture can be treated in several ways, and sometimes requires either removal or "scoring" of the scar tissue, or perhaps removal or replacement of the implant.

As with any surgical procedure, excessive bleeding following the operation may cause some swelling and pain. If excessive bleeding continues, another operation may be needed to control the bleeding and remove the accumulated blood.

A small percentage of women develop an infection around an implant. This may occur at any time, but is most often seen within a week after surgery. In some cases, the implant may need to be removed for several months until the infection clears. A new implant can then be inserted.

Some women report that their nipples become oversensitive, undersensitive, or even numb. You may also notice small patches of numbness near your incisions. These symptoms usually disappear within time, but may be permanent in some patients.

There is no evidence that breast implants will affect fertility, pregnancy, or your ability to nurse. If, however, you have nursed a baby within the year before augmentation, you may produce milk for a few days after surgery. This may cause some discomfort, but can be treated with medication prescribed by your doctor.

Occasionally, breast implants may break or leak. Rupture can occur as a result of injury or even from the normal compression and movement of your breast and implant, causing the man-made shell to leak. If a saline-filled implant breaks, the implant will deflate in a few hours and the salt water will be harmlessly absorbed by the body.

If a break occurs in a gel-filled implant, however, one of two things may occur. If the shell breaks but the scar capsule around the implant does not, you may not detect any change. If the scar also breaks or tears, especially following extreme pressure, silicone gel may move into surrounding tissue. The gel may collect in the breast and cause a new scar to form around it, or it may migrate to another area of the body. There may be a change in the shape or firmness of the breast. Both types of breaks may require a second operation and replacement of the leaking implant. In some cases, it may not be possible to remove all of the silicone gel in the breast tissue if a rupture should occur.

A few women with breast implants have reported symptoms similar to diseases of the immune system, such as scleroderma and other arthritis-like conditions. These symptoms may include joint pain or swelling, fever, fatigue, or breast pain. Research has found no clear link between silicone breast implants and the symptoms of what doctors refer to as "connective-tissue disorders," but the FDA has requested further study.

While there is no evidence that breast implants cause breast cancer, they may change the way mammography is done to detect cancer. When you request a routine mammogram, be sure to go to a radiology center where technicians are experienced in the special techniques required to get a reliable x-ray of a breast with an implant. Additional views will be required. Ultrasound examinations may be of benefit in some women with implants to detect breast lumps or to evaluate the implant.

While the majority of women do not experience these complications, you should discuss each of them with your physician to make sure you understand the risks and consequences of breast augmentation.

PLANNING YOUR SURGERY

In your initial consultation, your surgeon will evaluate your health and explain which surgical techniques are most appropriate for you, based on the condition of your breasts and skin tone. If your breasts are sagging, your doctor may also recommend a breast lift.

Be sure to discuss your expectations frankly with your surgeon. He or she should be equally frank with you, describing your alternatives and the risks and limitations of each. You may want to ask your surgeon for a copy of the manufacturer's insert that comes with the implant he or she will use -- just so you are fully informed about it. And, be sure to tell your surgeon if you smoke, and if you're taking any medications, vitamins, or other drugs.

Your surgeon should also explain the type of anesthesia to be used, the type of facility where the surgery will be performed, and the costs involved. Because most insurance companies do not consider breast augmentation to be medically necessary, carriers generally do not cover the cost of this procedure.

PREPARING FOR YOUR SURGERY

Your surgeon will give you instructions to prepare for surgery, including guidelines on eating and drinking, smoking, and taking or avoiding certain vitamins and medications.

While making preparations, be sure to arrange for someone to drive you home after your surgery and to help you out for a few days, if needed.

WHERE YOUR SURGERY WILL BE PERFORMED

Your surgeon may prefer to perform the operation in an office facility, a freestanding surgery center, or a hospital outpatient facility. Occasionally, the surgery may be done as an inpatient in a hospital, in which case you can plan on staying for a day or two.

TYPES OF ANESTHESIA

Breast augmentation can be performed with a general anesthesia, so you'll sleep through the entire operation. Some surgeons may use a local anesthesia, combined with a sedative to make you drowsy, so you'll be relaxed but awake, and may feel some discomfort.

THE SURGERY

The method of inserting and positioning your implant will depend on your anatomy and your surgeon's recommendation. The incision can be made either in the crease where the breast meets the chest, around the areola (the dark skin surrounding the nipple), or in the armpit. Every effort will be made to assure that the incision is placed so resulting scars will be as inconspicuous as possible.

Working through the incision, the surgeon will lift your breast tissue and skin to create a pocket, either directly behind the breast tissue or underneath your chest wall muscle (the pectoral muscle). The implants are then centered beneath your nipples.

Some surgeons believe that putting the implants behind your chest muscle may reduce the potential for capsular contracture. Drainage tubes may be used for several days following the surgery. This placement may also interfere less with breast examination by mammogram than if the implant is placed directly behind the breast tissue. Placement behind the muscle however, may be more painful for a few days after surgery than placement directly under the breast tissue.

You'll want to discuss the pros and cons of these alternatives with your doctor before surgery to make sure you fully understand the implications of the procedure he or she recommends for you.

The surgery usually takes one to two hours to complete. Stitches are used to close the incisions, which may also be taped for greater support. A gauze bandage may be applied over your breasts to help with healing.

AFTER YOUR SURGERY

You're likely to feel tired and sore for a few days following your surgery, but you'll be up and around in 24 to 48 hours. Most of your discomfort can be controlled by medication prescribed by your doctor.

Within several days, the gauze dressings, if you have them, will be removed, and you may be given a surgical bra. You should wear it as directed by your surgeon. You may also experience a burning sensation in your nipples for about two weeks, but this will subside as bruising fades.

Your stitches will come out in a week to 10 days, but the swelling in your breasts may take three to five weeks to disappear.

GETTING BACK TO NORMAL

You should be able to return to work within a few days, depending on the level of activity required for your job.

Follow your surgeon's advice on when to begin exercises and normal activities. Your breasts will probably be sensitive to direct stimulation for two to three weeks, so you should avoid much physical contact. After that, breast contact is fine once your breasts are no longer sore, usually three to four weeks after surgery.

Your scars will be firm and pink for at least six weeks. Then they may remain the same size for several months, or even appear to widen. After several months, your scars will begin to fade, although they will never disappear completely.

Routine mammograms should be continued after breast augmentation for women who are in the appropriate age group, although the mammographic technician should use a special technique to assure that you get a reliable reading, as discussed earlier. (see All surgery carries some uncertainty and risk.)

YOUR NEW LOOK

For many women, the result of breast augmentation can be satisfying, even exhilarating, as they learn to appreciate their fuller appearance.

Regular examination by your plastic surgeon and routine mammograms for those in the appropriate age groups at prescribed intervals will help assure that any complications, if they occur, can be detected early and treated.

Your decision to have breast augmentation is a highly personal one that not everyone will understand. The important thing is how you feel about it. If you've met your goals, then your surgery is a success.



To find a plastic surgeon who performs this procedure, visit the online referral service of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS). ASPS, founded in 1931, is the largest plastic surgery organization in the world and the foremost authority on cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgery. All ASPS physician members are certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) or the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada.

How To Protect Your Lips

The skin on our lips is very thin and there are no oil glands to help protect them. So, it's up to you. Here are a few things you should know about your lips and how to care for them.
Difficulty: Easy

Time Required: N/A

Here's How:
1. The Reasons...

2. Heat as well as cold can contribute to dried out lips.

3. Another cause of dry lips is aging. The older you get, the more prone they are to chapping.

4. Avoid licking your lips. Easier said than done. I know but read on.

5. Another bad habit that you can fall into is biting off bits of dead skin.

6. Chewing on your lips is more popular than you might think. And for women who wear lipstick, here is a bit of trivia that I dug up for you...

7. Did you know that women who are habitual lip chewers eat four to nine pounds of lipstick during their life?

8. How To Protect Your Lips...

9. Drink plenty of water to moisturize your lips from the inside.

10. Cracked lips could be a sign that your diet is low in B vitamins.

11. Keep lips well lubricated at all times and this means at bedtime as well. My lips are especially dry right after brushing my teeth!

12. I find that one lip balm is not enough. I keep one in my desk drawer, one in the bathroom, and one in each of my purses.

Tips:
Remember, the most expensive lipstick is not going to help dried, crusty lips.
During the winter, you might be tempted to apply a layer of lip balm followed by a layer of lipstick. Instead of the lip balm during the day, switch to a moisturizing lipstick and save the lip balm for before you go to bed.
Lip balm makes a great moisturizer for your cuticles!

lips with candy

your smile is probably the first thing ......

When you greet people, your smile is probably the first thing that catches their attention.

A smile, especially one that reaches the eyes, can be engaging enough to beckon someone’s interest and winning enough to hold their attention.

Oftentimes, people place all the attention on beautiful, white teeth that shine out through your smile. While this is important, the health of your lips is also important.

If your lips are sore and cracked, a smile can be painful and therefore, less engaging.

When you talk, your lips move constantly and therefore dry, cracked lips can create a desire to remain silent.

Do you ever think about how much depends or rests on your lips? Your lips are your gateway to so many different avenues. With them you can:

Whisper sweet nothings into the ears of your loved one.
Push away the boogieman as you sooth and comfort your little ones.
Pray for peace for all of humanity.
Extend love and kindness to the people you cherish.
Offer encouragement, support, and guidance to those who need it.
Provide thoughtfulness and generosity in a time of need.
Invite the sandman to elicit sweet dreams while you slumber.
Sing dulcet tunes to instill peace and harmony.
Winter can be a harsh companion, especially on our lips. Therefore, caring for our lips should be part of our daily routine. Many products are available to help prevent dry and cracked lips. First and foremost, avoid problems with daily care. Take the time to invest in a few products that will keep your lips smooth and delectable.

An ounce of prevention (once or twice a day) is worth a pound of cure (all day long).

Preventative measures can be as simple as:

Applying a small coat of Vaseline or lip balm when using a dry lipstick.
Using a bit of lip balm to moisturize as you sleep.
Using a lip balm before going out into harsh weather, especially one with a good SPF factor to protect them from the sun’s rays.
Drinking plenty of water to keep your lips hydrated and supple.
Avoiding the use of lipsticks that can dry out your lips if they have become chapped.
Resisting the urge to lick your lips (saliva does not moisturize).
Resisting the urge to nibble at your lips.
Using a toothbrush with soft bristles to remove flaky skin from your lips.
Remember that pain is unnecessary, lips that hurt can and should be avoided, and there are many products available to help us.

Making Your Lipstick Last Longer

Making Your Lipstick Last Longer
Making your lipstick last longer is as easy as 1 2 3...

We all love our lipstick to stay on our lips as long as possible. But be warned, lipstick that is designed to stay on your lips all day can sap your lips of moisture causing flaking and splitting.

There are lip base products out there, which you apply to your lips before you apply lipstick. They will protect your lips from drying out but also will help cling onto that color.

A good trick that I use almost all the time is to line my lips with lip liner and then color them in with it also. It can change the color of the lipstick into a darker shade or it can change the color altogether depending on the color lipliner you choose. Then place your lipstick on your lips and fear not about the color wearing off too quickely.

Another way to make your lipstick itself last a bit longer in its casing, is to use a lipbrush to apply it, that way you are in control of how much goes on your lips.

And please don't forget to blot. Blotting takes off excess color and sets what is left behind.

SO......

* Apply your lipliner around the edge of your lips.
* Color in the lips with the liner.
* Apply your lipstick.
* Blot.
* Re-apply a light coating of your lipstick...
and Voila.... you are ready to get pouty and kissy!

Be Happy and SMOOCH the world !!!

Tips for Dry Lips

Tips for Dry Lips



-Hot water fomentation, followed by a mixture of Vaseline and honey applied on the lips atleast thrice a week will prevent lips from chapping.

-A good lip balm should create a moisture barrier to provide protection against the elements. It should also contain counterirritants to eliminate itching. Lip balms with antiseptic properties are also perfectly safe, and keep germs and bacteria away from chapped or cracked lips.

-Apply fresh butter on dry lips to make it smooth.

-Use chapstick

-To cure dry lips apply peanut butter or coco butter.

-Grind rose petals with cream on the top of milk and apply on lips to cure the dry lips

-Mix 2 drops of glycerin, and ½ tsp of lime juice and apply on lips to cure the dry lips.

-Take B, C vitamin foods in diet.

-Best remedy to cure dry lips mix equal quantities of nutmeg, turmeric, fresh butter and apply to lips.

-Mix 2 drops of glycerin with 1 tsp of cream on the top of milk and apply to lips to cure the dry lips and as well as to get the smooth & shiny lips

Steps to Applying a Lipstick

Steps to Applying a Lipstick
Outlining with Lip Liner :
To apply lip liner, rest the elbow of your working hand on a flat and steady surface or on the palm of your other hand and trace quickly and lightly around your lips, when you get near to the corners of your mouth fade the line out by marking it more lightly. If you like you can cover your entire mouth with lip liner it acts as a good lipsticks base.

Priming The Lips with a Lip Balancer :
Fill in the lips with a special base or balancer to even out the skin tones. If your lips are of an even color, use a face powder as a base.

Filling Up with Lipstick :
Afterwards, apply lipsticks preferably using a brush (it helps to stabilize the color).

Finding a suitable color :
Most important things for right color choosing are skin color, hair color and shape of your lips.
1) For light skin and blonde hair - All shades of orange, pink, purple.
2) For dark skin and dark hair - All shades of red, violet.
3) For light skin and dark hair - All shades of brown and beige.
4) For red hair women - Coral-red, brown and bronze colors.

Blotting Off :
Fold a clean tissue and place it between your lips. Press the lips lightly together to remove the excess color and to help seal the remainder, so that it stays on the lips rather than moving onto every glass you use. Apply a second coat of lipstick (if desired or for evening makeup). Don't apply more than three layers or your lips will look frighteningly thick.

Final Lip Gloss Application :
Finally finish with a lip-gloss to get a gleaming look. However, women with extra full lips should use lip-gloss very sparingly.

Types of Lips and Tips

Types of Lips and Tips
Smooth Lips :
Plagued by chapped, cracked lips? No problem. Below are few tip that tells you how to keep your lips soft and supple.
1) Don't peel or attempt to exfoliate chapped lips. It only makes the problem worse.

2) Switch your lipstick, lip balm, or toothpaste. In some cases, chapped lips can signal an adverse reaction to an ingredient in one of these products.

3) Protect your lips with a good lip balm before going outdoors.

4) Resist the urge to lick your lips. It may feel good temporarily, but it strips the lips of natural oils and only makes matters worse.

Sexy Lips :
1. Here's the best bet to setting your lip colour. No matter what the texture of your lipstick is always apply lip balm first to soften and smoothen the skin. If your lips are chapped apply some Vaseline and softly rub your lips with a soft muslin cloth to remove dead skin leaving your lips looking healthier.

2. The first step to a fashionable mouth is to define your lipline, if you want to make your lips appear smaller use colours like dark berry or chocolate shades which make lips look thinner also apply the liner on the inner boundary of your natural line. On the contrary if you want a more fuller look recreate your lipline slightly above your natural line and use a sheeny or sheer moisturising lip stick in warm coal, rosy pink or a bronzed caramel tone. Make even more of your mouth by applying little gloss in the middle of your lower lip.

3. After a proper definition apply your lipstick with a lip brush this gives a more even and lasting look to the lipstick, then blot with a tissue. You can dust some powder through a single ply tissue to achieve a sophisticated matte look or reapply another coat of lipstick for intense colour.

4. If you always land up with lipstick on your teeth than simply put your index finger in your mouth, close your lips around it and slowly pull it out of your mouth. The residue will stick to your finger.

5. The new -look of glossy shimmering lips can be achieved easily by applying a gloss that matches your lipstick colour so it enhances the actual tone as well as add shine. Or think of updating a tired browny lipstick with a lick of shiny gold shimmer- it's instant sun-kissed splendor on your lips.

6. You can also choose a nude shade close to your own skin colouring and apply carefully with a brush all the way to the edges of the lipline and add a new dimension with a touch of sheer gloss for a striking effect for day and night.

7. You can also opt for one of the most versatile, classic and ageless colour red. By tapping your ring finger onto your red lipstick and apply them to your lips by dotting on the colour and then spreading it . Apply sheer gloss to add a touch of class. You can also decrease the voltage of red by applying a nude/natural lipstick as base colour.

Oomph Lips :
Follow the natural contours of your lips, outline the lips with a lip pencil. Match your lipstick or use one shade lighter or darker. Fill in lips with pencil for extra staying power.

Dab some lipstick onto the back of your hand to warm and soften the colour. Dip a brush into the lipstick on your hand, then apply it over the liner and carefully fill in the lips.

With a tissue wrapped around your index finger, gently dab at the lip line to blend and soften any hard pencil lines. Reapply lipstick for the last finish.

Add a mole a la Cindy Crawford to give yourself that ultra romantic look.

Dry Lips :
1) Hot water fomentation, followed by a mixture of Vaseline and honey applied on the lips atleast thrice a week will prevent lips from chapping.

2) A good lip balm should create a moisture barrier to provide protection against the elements. It should also contain counterirritants to eliminate itching. Lip balms with antiseptic properties are also perfectly safe, and keep germs and bacteria away from chapped or cracked lips.

3) Apply fresh butter on dry lips to make it smooth.

4) Use chapstick.

5) To cure dry lips apply peanut butter or coco butter.

6) Grind rose petals with cream on the top of milk and apply on lips to cure the dry lips

7) Mix 2 drops of glycerin, and ½ tsp of lime juice and apply on lips to cure the dry lips.

8) Take B, C vitamin foods in diet.

9) Best remedy to cure dry lips mix equal quantities of nutmeg, turmeric, fresh butter and apply to lips.

10) Mix 2 drops of glycerin with 1 tsp of cream on the top of milk and apply to lips to cure the dry lips and as well as to get the smooth & shiny lips.

General Tips for Lips :
1) Apply cold cream or moisturizer or lip balm before applying lipstick.

2) To get natural pink lips apply beet root juice before bed.

3) Grind rose petals and apply on lips to get smooth pink lips

4) If you have thinner lips use more neutral lip color.

5) If you want different shade of lip color mix two or three lipstick colors together and use as new lip color.

6) If your face is bumpy, irritate or ruddy, or rash don’t use true red color, till you get normal skin. Red will show more attention on the skin.

7) Pale shades makes lip look fuller.

8) Apply menthol based lip balm and take an old brush and brush gently on lips ( don’t rub too hard, because lip are very sensitive) to get rid off chapped lips.

LipStick

LipStick

Manners maketh a man but a lipstick maketh a woman!! Find out how you can attain sexy and sheer lips guaranteed to seduce!!

Firstly we all need to understand that lips also need protection even more so than our facial skin. As their protective layer known as stratum corneum is very thin so choose a non medicated stick like the Nivea Lip Care Daily Care and apply it daily to keep lips soft and supple. For serious flaking or soreness, look for products that contain camphor, menthol as both are soothers and always remember to apply lip balm underneath lipstick as it makes the lipstick easier to remove and cause less damage.



Some best tips to Sexy lips.

1. Here's the best bet to setting your lip colour. No matter what the texture of your lipstick is always apply lip balm first to soften and smoothen the skin. If your lips are chapped apply some Vaseline and softly rub your lips with a soft muslin cloth to remove dead skin leaving your lips looking healthier.

2. The first step to a fashionable mouth is to define your lipline, if you want to make your lips appear smaller use colours like dark berry or chocolate shades which make lips look thinner also apply the liner on the inner boundary of your natural line. On the contrary if you want a more fuller look recreate your lipline slightly above your natural line and use a sheeny or sheer moisturising lip stick in warm coal, rosy pink or a bronzed caramel tone. Make even more of your mouth by applying little gloss in the middle of your lower lip.

3. After a proper definition apply your lipstick with a lip brush this gives a more even and lasting look to the lipstick, then blot with a tissue. You can dust some powder through a single ply tissue to achieve a sophisticated matte look or reapply another coat of lipstick for intense colour.

4. If you always land up with lipstick on your teeth than simply put your index finger in your mouth, close your lips around it and slowly pull it out of your mouth. The residue will stick to your finger.

5. The new -look of glossy shimmering lips can be achieved easily by applying a gloss that matches your lipstick colour so it enhances the actual tone as well as add shine. Or think of updating a tired browny lipstick with a lick of shiny gold shimmer- it's instant sun-kissed splendor on your lips.

6. You can also choose a nude shade close to your own skin colouring and apply carefully with a brush all the way to the edges of the lipline and add a new dimension with a touch of sheer gloss for a striking effect for day and night.

7. You can also opt for one of the most versatile, classic and ageless colour red. By tapping your ring finger onto your red lipstick and apply them to your lips by dotting on the colour and then spreading it . Apply sheer gloss to add a touch of class. You can also decrease the voltage of red by applying a nude/natural lipstick as base colour.



General Tips for Lips

-Apply cold cream or moisturizer or lip balm before applying lipstick.

-To get natural pink lips apply beet root juice before bed.

-Grind rose petals and apply on lips to get smooth pink lips

-If you have thinner lips use more neutral lip color.

-If you want different shade of lip color mix two or three lipstick colors together and use as new lip color.

-If your face is bumpy, irritate or ruddy, or rash don’t use true red color, till you get normal skin. Red will show more attention on the skin.

-Pale shades makes lip look fuller.

-Apply menthol based lip balm and take an old brush and brush gently on lips ( don’t rub too hard, because lip are very sensitive) to get rid off chapped lips.



How to get those oomph lips

Follow the natural contours of your lips, outline the lips with a lip pencil. Match your lipstick or use one shade lighter or darker. Fill in lips with pencil for extra staying power.

Dab some lipstick onto the back of your hand to warm and soften the colour. Dip a brush into the lipstick on your hand, then apply it over the liner and carefully fill in the lips.

With a tissue wrapped around your index finger, gently dab at the lip line to blend and soften any hard pencil lines. Reapply lipstick for the last finish.

Add a mole a la Cindy Crawford to give yourself that ultra romantic look.