Ingrown Hair from Epilators?

Question: Do Epilators Cause Ingrown Hair?

Is ingrown hair more common and caused by the epilator or am I doing something wrong?

Answer: Ingrown hair can be caused from every form of hair removal, but is more common with epilators. However, if the proper procedures are followed, an epilator can be one of your biggest assets and can also save you money in the long run.

Preventing Ingrown Hair from Epilators

• Make sure the epilator is in good condition. If you have dropped it and not taken care of it, then chances are it will cause ingrown hair. If anything is tweaked even a little bit, you may have problems. For example, if the tweezers are bent it may not grasp the hair properly and cause breakage under the skin, causing ingrown hair.

• Keep your unit clean. Make sure your unit is clean before using. Follow the manufacturers' directions for exactly how to clean the epilator because bacteria can easily enter without being seen. Keep in mind anytime you remove hair out of the follicle, you are leaving it open for bacteria to enter. Cleaning your unit regularly will help keep bacteria at bay; thus helping prevent ingrown hair.

• Practice does make perfect. The more you use the epilator, you can get the correct position so it becomes a muscle memory when using the unit.

• Hold skin taut. If skin is taut while you're epilating you'll be more likely to remove the hair root from the follicle, and not just break it under the skin.

• Do this post-epilating. I also have found that using a skin toner after epilating can also aid in preventing ingrown hair because it helps close the pore to the follicle, making it more difficult for bacteria to invade.

• Exfoliate. Regularly ridding dead skin cells helps keep hairs pointing up. If skin isn't inflamed or infected a couple times of week (1 - 3 depending on skin type) use a body scrub or ayate washcloth (compare prices).

Which Epilators Work for Me

I have had a difficult time in deciding which I felt was the best epilator. I have to give a draw between two, The Emjoi Emagine and The Epilady Legend. I like the Emjoi because it is fast and it works. It's corded so it only works if you have an outlet for power. The Epilady is outstanding as well. It's cordless so you can take it with you on the go. They are both great and the breakage was minimal with each one. Again practice makes perfect so give them a chance and learn what works for you.

View the original article here

Common Fingernail Problems Explained

Nail technician, Hillary Fry is back with us to talk more in depth about our fingernails.? You might remember Hillary from the interview she did with us on Shellac Nails. (shellac nails - reader reviews) Today, she's helping us make sense of the most common fingernail problems.

We probably all have had one of these issues in our life time.? Maybe it's the little white patches on your nails or the ridges that you keep having to buff out.? In our interview, Hillary talks about a healthy looking nail, what some of the most common issues are and when you might want to cancel your manicure appointment. Read her thoughts on Common Fingernail Problems Explained.

You can see more from Hillary on her blog, Solessence.com.

Getty Images/Steve Wisbauer

View the original article here

5 Products for a Healthy Complexion

Just yesterday I had new headshots taken.? It was sort of a last minute thing and I didn't really prepare my skin in the days before my shoot.? The night before my session, I looked at my dull complexion in the mirror and wished I would have spent more time in the previous weeks using products that would brighten my complexion.? (Want to see one of my new pictures? Come over to the About.com Skin Care Facebook page.)

Do you ever look at your pictures and think the same thing? Mary-Ellen Kramer made a list of her top 5 favorite products for a healthy complexion.? Her inspiration? The countless times she has unexpectedly been tagged in a picture on Facebook after a night out with friends.? Her goal now is to be consistent with her product selection with a goal of consistent healthy-looking skin.? Come check out her list - 5 Products for a Healthy Complexion.

Image courtesy PriceGrabber

More on Healthy Skin

• 7 Tips for a Brighter Complexion
• 5 Vitamins for Healthy Skin
• 5 Foods for Healthy Skin

View the original article here

Ready Betty Review

The Bottom Line

If you use depilatories, Ready Betty will remove your hair in no time!

" class="cp"/>

Pros

• Removes the hair quickly and painlessly
• Comes with everything you need including scissors, stencils and a finishing tool

Cons

• It's a cream hair remover, so there's potential to get a chemical burn
• The stencils did not stay on the skin very well
• Although it is a “no smell” formula, it did have that depilatory smell

Description

• Manufacturer: Betty Beauty
• Usage: Pubic stencil kit using hair removal cream
• Average Price: $14.99
• Kit contains: betty bare hair removal cream, eight stencil shapes, scissors and a trimmer

Guide Review - Ready Betty

There are still a few of you who like to use depilatories, and Ready Betty is probably one of the best that I've ever used. It really removes the hair, and fast. I usually wax, but sometimes I just can’t wait, and shaving has been my go to until now.

Although it did have the chemical smell, it was well worth it. In five minutes, you too can have a smooth and hairless bikini line. First you’ll simply trim the hair shorter to make it easier to remove. A pair of scissors are included in the kit so you don’t have to go searching.

One of the provided eight stencils allows you to create designs, but they didn’t stay on my skin that well. If you have a steady hand you can make your own creative design. The finishing tool removes any stray hairs for cleaner results and for more precise definition of the designs. If you don't want any hair left, that's fine too. You can also remove it all with the hair removal cream!

Here’s the best part. There are more than five applications in the tube. So far, I have used about five and still have more, so it’s well worth the money. Ready Betty is truly a wonderful kit for bikini hair removal.

Other Betty Beauty Product Reviews from Nicole:

• Sexy and Fun Betty
• Bridal (Malibu) Betty
• Brown and Blonde Betty

" class="cp"/>

View the original article here

Wax Collars Help to Lessen Drips

If you're like me, even with the greatest intentions of leaving the bathroom spotless after a d.i.y. wax, you may end up scrubbing off dried wax from the sink. One accessory, although not absolutely necessary to removing the hair, is extremely helpful - - the wax collar (compare prices). It fits around the underside rim of the wax pot by being slipped on from the bottom so that drips are caught, but also helps remove the pot out of the warmer once cooled. When a collar has had its day, you simply tear and take it off since they're made out of a thick paper.

Some technicians like to put a couple on at once so that a new spotless one is waiting. It's also useful for propping up the pot so it isn't as close to the heat if you're using an on/off wax pot and not one with an adjustable temperature.

Image Courtesy PriceGrabber

View the original article here

Talika Eyebrow Stimulator

The Bottom Line

Talika Lipocils eyebrow growth stimulator does take some time to work, but did give me thicker and longer eyebrows after about a month. If you have the money to spend and want fuller looking eyebrows, this is a great product to get you there.

Pros

• Stimulates eyebrow hair growth
• Easy to use
• Colorless and odorless

Cons

• Expensive
• Takes about a month of consistent use
• Need to use twice a day- before makeup and at night

Description

• Manufacturer: Talika
• Usage: Stimulate eyebrow hair growth
• Average Price: $40.00

Guide Review - Talika Lipocils Eyebrow Stimulator

Well, like most of you, I have problems with my eyebrows. I wish I could say it was from over tweezing or a botched waxing experience, but sadly, I cannot. The honest truth is that I’m getting older. I used to have hair in places that, now, I wish it would grow and I have hair growing where I had no idea it could possibly grow!

My eyebrows have been one of those places where the hair has seemed to thin out over the years. I have gotten so good at penciling my eyebrows in; you would never know they are thin. But, penciling in your eyebrows every day is a heavy burden, especially if you are just going to the gym or running a quick errand before completing your spring-cleaning in the summer. Who want to have a sweaty, runny mess from their brows? Not me!

Talika has a product called Lipocils. It’s formulated for your brows to help them grow. This is not mascara for the eyebrows for an instant fix. It is a gel that is applied two times a day to the skin under your brows to help stimulate the growth of the hair.

“Does it work?” should be the question on everyone’s mind. Well ladies and gents, it does. After 30 days of using it I had to trim them and again after 50 days. 35 days in with consistent use my eyebrows seemed to be both thicker and longer.

Now, this is a product that you will have to use daily and probably for as long as you want thick, beautiful brows. And apparently, coaxing your hair out is an expensive business. At $40.00 a tube Talika Lipocils can be pricey, but eyebrows are everything to a person’s being. Remember that your eyebrows tell a lot about you and I know I am willing to pay for a great story!

Disclosure: Review samples were provided by the manufacturer. For more information, please see our Ethics Policy.

View the original article here

Tips for Shaving Private Area

Removing bikini hair has always been one, if not the most popular topic here. And shaving is one of the quickest and easiest ways to do that on your own. But razor burn, bumps, rash and ingrown hairs often come with the territory. We put a list for easy access to our most read bikini hair shaving articles to help guide men and women through the process avoiding nasty side effects. Included is how to make designs, protecting all your parts, how to trim, and products that really work. See it all in: Shaving Private Area.

View the original article here

Malibu Betty Review

c 2009 | BETTY BEAUTY, INC.

The Bottom Line

Looking for something blue? Malibu Bridal Betty is a fun, unique gift for the Bride-to-be!

" class="cp"/>

Pros

• Covers gray pubic hair
• Fun and imaginative color
• 1-2 applications in each box
• Includes stencils for designing to liven new hair color

Cons

• Time consuming, hair needs to be lightened in first step
• 20 - 30 minute developing time when applying color in second step
• Smells horrible during the application

Description

• Manufacturer: Betty Beauty
• Usage: Pubic hair color and designing
• Average Price: $19.99
• Options: Auburn, Black, Brown, Blonde, Violet and Pink colors
• Kit contains: Blue pubic hair color, dove/heart or heart/hugs and kisses stencils

Guide Review - Malibu Bridal Betty

Ah, Betty Beauty has the perfect gift for the Bride-to-be! Bride-maids, Maids of Honor and anyone who is going to attend a bridal shower…Bridal Betty is definitely something you could put on your list.

Malibu Bridal Betty is a hair color for “down there” that will give the Bride her something blue, new, or just plain old fun. A few cute stencils will help to light a fire on the Bride’s wedding night are included in the kit. You’ll either get a dove and a heart or a heart and an “XO” that can be taken to your bikini waxing appointment. I wouldn’t recommend using them with shaving because they’re thin like stickers, and could easily fall apart when wet.

First, you must lighten your hair before applying the color. The smell of the lightener is pretty harsh, but, just remember it’s to get you the lively results you're looking for. After lightening your hair, you apply the very blue color for a 20-30 minute developing time, then rinse. You'll then have blue results that will make a smurf jealous.

I do have to say it is a little uncomfortable waiting for the lightener and the dye to work because it’s a bit difficult to sit down. You’ll probably be walking around like you just got off a horse. The smell is not so great either, but, beauty is pain, right?

Other Betty Beauty Product Reviews from Nicole:

• Brown and Blonde Betty
• Sexy and Fun Betty
• Ready Betty (pubic hair designing kit)

" class="cp"/>

View the original article here

XpresSpa Airport Relaxation

Needing to kill some time at the Orlando airport waiting for our flight back home, I just happened to spot massage chairs. Going closer I noticed it was an XpresSpa so I glanced over the menu and the crick in my neck drove me straight to the Stress & Tension Eliminator (15 min / $35). With Orlando being an extremely busy international airport, it was no surprise that I had to wait a couple minutes before I could start.

Sitting back in a mechanical massage chair, it was extremely relaxing getting my face, shoulders, hands and arms massaged with a technician who had a very nice touch. The hustle and bustle of the outside world passing by the storefront didn't seem to bother me one bit.

They have all types of massages, including a full body in a private room, along with facials, manicures, pedicures, facials, and yes, waxing! A bikini wax is even on their menu (I'm sure in their private room). I asked the receptionist (or she could have been the manager) if they do a lot of waxing and she said that they do some, especially eyebrows. I saw the wax pot on and ready to go.

In my opinion, their prices are on the higher side, but they don't list them on their website. At home I would never pay $35 for a 15 minute massage service. But when that is your only spa option, it makes a world of difference. XpresSpa currently has locations throughout the United States in some of the busiest airports, and three in Amsterdam.

View the original article here

Chin Hair: Wax Vs Tweeze

Two very popular methods for chin hair removal are waxing and tweezing. Both do remove the hair from the root and last for weeks when done properly. But in so many ways they are very different. Here we break them down for you so you can choose the right one for you.

Contraindications

• Waxing: Certain conditions or medicines conflict with waxing, making skin get overly red, peel, bleed and scab (read precautions).
• Tweezing: Can basically be done on anyone, despite their condition or medicine they take. When used correctly, tweezers shouldn’t have any harmful effects on the skin.

Growth Needed

• Waxing: Hair needs to be about 1/4 of an inch.
• Tweezing: There needs to be some growth, the amount depends on the quality of the tweezers and thickness of hair. But it’s more like 1/16 of an inch.

Speed

• Waxing: Many hairs are taken off at once, so it’s fairly quick.
• Tweezing: Hairs have to be removed one-by-one, which can take a good amount of time for chin hair removal.

Fine Hairs

• Waxing: Easily grabs onto all hair, even fine ones. You get a very smooth surface if it’s done correctly (get instructions).
• Tweezing: Can grasp thicker hairs, but has a harder time taking out fine ones. So some “fuzz” can still remain (get instructions).

Supplies

• Waxing: At the very least you need wax strips, but in my opinion, they don’t work as well as warm wax for removing all of the hair. Then you would need to get wax, a heater, strips, applicators, powder, and wax remover. Learn more: Facial and Body Waxing Supplies.
• Tweezing: You only need a good pair of tweezers.

Learn about other options: How To Remove Female Chin Hair.

View the original article here

New Review - REM: Spring Sprong Hair Remover

Our latest review is REM's Spring Sprong hair removal tool.? It looks a bit scary, doesn't it?? And maybe a little too good to be true?? There are many ways to deal with facial hair and chances are good many of you think wax, threading or tweezing, not something that looks like this.? But this spring works!

I purchased it a couple of weeks ago and it was a trial and error for a while, but I finally have it down and can't wait to share it with you.? Check out our latest review of REM's Spring Sprong and see if it's for you.

Image courtesy PriceGrabber

More on Hair Removal:

• Interview with Threading Expert, Shobha Tummala
• Interview with Waxing Expert, Kari Ellet
• DIY Treatment for Ingrown Hair

View the original article here

The Body Shop - Today Only: Free Full-Size Body Butter

Happy Valentine's Day! I think today should be a day to show love to ourselves, not rely on others to give it to us.? Married, dating, single - this day doesn't have to be all about what you get, or don't get from someone else.

How are you going to treat yourself today?? Maybe a mid-afternoon latte. A lunch-time manicure? Did you wake up early for a yoga class this morning? Here's a way to treat yourself at The Body Shop.

All purchases over $30 and up today will get a free full-size body butter.? You can choose from my favorite Strawberry, Coconut or their new Chocomania. (visit site) Free shipping on orders of $50 or more.

Image provided by The Body Shop

Valentines Night Pampering Ideas

• DIY Facials - Pamper Yourself or Pamper Your Mate
• DIY Pedicure Instructions
• Honeyed Hands - Romantic Start to the Night

View the original article here

Spa Sonic vs. Clarisonic

The Spa Sonic Skin Care System is a Clarisonic look alike that is priced much lower and available in stores like Target and Walmart. It's the same concept as the Clarisonic, but when you really look at the details, it's quite different. (read review of the Clarisonic)

Mary-Ellen Kramer and I worked together on this review as she has the Clarisonic Classic (compare prices) and was able to easily point out the similarities and differences. (Note that the Clarisonic has 4 models that range in price from $119 to $225.)

Spa Sonic Skin Care System - Description and Directions

Here is the description of the Spa Sonic Skin Care System Face & Body Polisher from the company. Spa Sonic Skin Care System Face & Body Polisher is a waterproof device ideal for use in the shower, bath and sink. It operates with four attachments: a big brush for the body, a small brush for the face, a pumice for rough areas and a facial sponge for microdermabrasion.

At the time of this review, the price for the Spa Sonic Skin Care System is right around $65 and includes the device, 2 small face brushes, 1 large body brush, 1 facial buffer, 1 pumice stone and 1 battery 4-pack

How and When to Use:

The Spa Sonic can be used daily with your facial cleanser or body cleanser. It's waterproof, so you simply take it into the shower with you and switch heads when you need to. Apply the cleanser either to your skin or to the head of the Spa Sonic and turn it on. It rotates in circles, giving your skin an exfoliation treatment with each use.

The bristles are soft, so there really isn't concern over using it too often. Daily use is fine.

Spa Sonic Vs. Clarisonic

While the Spa Sonic and Clarisonic look similar, there are actually quite a few differences. Here are some things to note.

Differences:

• Price: The Spa Sonic is currently $65 and the Clarisonic Classic is currently $195.
• Speed Settings: The Spa Sonic simply has on and off where the Clarisonic Classic has two speed settings.
• Different Head Options: The Clarisonic uses one head for the entire body while the Spa Sonic has a head for the face, body and a pumice stone that you can use on your feet.
• Battery Powered: The Spa Sonic is battery powered and comes with batteries. The Clarisonic is rechargeable.
• Head Movements: The whole Spa Sonic head simply rotates in a circle, where the Clarisonic is much more advanced with three separate rings, the outer stays still, the two inner circles rotate in opposite directions and speeds. Here is a short video that shows how the Clarisonic head works.
• Safety Settings: Mary-Ellen noted that the Clarisonic has a safety setting called the "T-Timer" that can be set to beep at the recommended time for each area of your face so that you don't use the brush for too long in one area. The Spa Sonic does not have these settings.

Spa Sonic Skin Care System - Things We Like and Things We Don't

Here are some positives about the Skin Sonic

• Price: Obviously much cheaper than the Clarisonic Classic, though not as high-tech. A great price point for those who would like to get a skin brush tool but don't want to shell out the money for a Clarisonic.
• Pumice Stone: It's great to pop on the pumice stone attachment in the shower and work on your feet.
• Exfoliating Ability: This is a great way to keep on top of your skin exfoliation without adding an extra step. The brush feels great on your skin and its very easy to use.
• Replacement Head Price: The Spa Sonic replacement heads are only $15, where the Clarisonic replacement heads are $25 each or 2 for $40.

As well as some negatives.

• Spinning in Circles: Because this brush simply spins in one direction, I get the feeling that the Clarisonic, with the two direction spin, might be easier and more thorough. When I put the brush on my skin and slightly press down, the spinning slows down and the tool wants to spin along with the brush. Mary-Ellen did not say the same about the Clarisonic.
• So Many Tools: Obviously it's a positive to get more tools with your brush, but it is a bit of a hassle to have to pop one on for your face, another one for your body, one more for your feet (though we do like the one for our feet.) And to add in that you need to find a place for those little heads in the shower, as well. Though note that the Facial brush and the Body brush differ only in size, not in the softness of the bristles.
• Facial Buffer: There is a head on the Spa Sonic that is suggested to help your moisturizer sink in deeper. It's about the consistency of a makeup sponge. We say skip it and just apply your moisturizer. You don't need a tool for that.

Spa Sonic Skin Care System - Final Thoughts

If you are looking for a skin care brush, by all means, this is a fine option. It is a rather good-size kit that will help your skin stay exfoliated. It is priced at a price much more reasonable that the Clarisonic and is readily available at a store near you. Our only concern is that you might think you're getting the Clarisonic because it is shaped like a Clarisonic. In fact, some websites that we visited that sell this site actually say, "Compares to Clarisonic".

Judged alone, not comparing it to the Clarisonic, it works just as it says it should. It helps exfoliate the skin in a thorough way, it is a sleek tool that is fun to use. And it's availability is great!

Disclosure: Review samples were provided by the manufacturer. For more information, please see our Ethics Policy.

View the original article here

Best Budget Skin Care - RCA Winners

From January 13 through February 8, 2011, readers nominated their favorite budget skin care products, brands and bloggers. The results came in and five finalists in each category were announced. Readers voted for their favorites from February 11th through March 8th.

Winners have been announced! Come see what product won in each budget skin care category, indie skin care, green skin care and beauty blog.

View the original article here

Window Shopping at Etsy

I love the small companies that make their own skincare products. Not only are they usually fresher, but many don't have the high overhead and expenses of large corporations making indie products a lot cheaper than what you would pay for something similar at a boutique or department store. They usually take a lot of pride in their creations and use high quality ingredients.

That's why Etsy is such a great site with wonderful handmade goodies, from clothes to purses, through skincare and beauty products. I headed over there and started window shopping browsing through shaving products. If I needed them, this is what I would have picked up:

• Before You Shave Oil. I don't care that the packaging looks like it's geared toward men. It has all natural ingredients, with good for your skin oils, and is poured out with a twist and drip cap. From Sam's Natural, $12.95 for 2 oz.
• GreenShave. I love really creamy shaving creams because they protect the skin so well. And this not only looks super creamy, but they say you don't need any aftershave. It also has all natural ingredients like shea butter, aloe vera gel, Japanese Matcha Green Tea and cocoa butter. From GreenShave, $8 for 4 oz.
• Aftershave Cooling Lotion. While splashes are nice, I like lotions because they help rehydrate the skin with moisture lost from shaving. Butters, oils, essential oils and hydrosols make up their natural ingredients list. From The Healing Muse Apothecary, approximately $13.12 for about 4.06 oz.

Do you have a favorite Etsy hair removal product? Please tell us in the comments.

View the original article here

Interview with Julyne Derrick

Last month the Guide to Beauty Julyne Derrick here at About.com interviewed me asking what she called "her burning hair removal questions." But through the years writing about all things beauty, Julyne isn't a stranger to the world of getting rid of hair. She shares with us her experience spending thousands getting professional laser hair removal, eyebrow shaping tips, products she has tried, her favorite tweezers of all-time and more. Read the Interview with Julyne Derrick.

View the original article here

Dry Skin - 6 Tips to Soothe

Dry skin is very common in the cold winter months, but with a little TLC, your skin doesn't have to be dry, itch or flake.

First, take a moment to read 5 Skin-Saving Tips for Your Shower or Bath to see if you're making a major dry skin mistake and then come back to read some additional skin-soothing tips for dry skin. Following these tips will help you get rid of dry skin for good.

1. Put Hand Lotion by Each Sink (and One in Your Handbag!)

With as many times as you wash your hands during the day, no wonder they are parched, dry and possibly cracking. Luckily for you, this is an easy fix.

Every time you wash your hands, dry them off and apply a pump of hand lotion. It may take a little while to get used to the added step, but your hands will thank you for it when they go from dry to moisturized around the clock. And don't forget to add a travel-size bottle in your handbag for on-the-go washings out in the public.

2. Wear Gloves

Cold weather is simply a recipe for dry, cracked hands. This is easy to avoid by simply wearing gloves. The elements are so harsh on your skin, but by wearing your gloves each time you head out, you'll limit the exposure your hands have to the cold weather, which will help prevent dry skin.

Look for gloves to go on sale and pick up an extra pair or two so that when the inevitable glove goes missing, you'll have an extra set.

3. Moisturize Your Lips

If you've ever had horribly dry, chapped lips, chances are good you've got a constant supply of lip balm in every location possible. If you haven't experienced super chapped lips, do yourself a favor and avoid it at all costs.

Your lips need extra-special care all of the time, but especially in the winter. Stay away from the lip glosses which can cause a sticky mess if rubbed on your scarf. Go with a nice chap stick or lip balm that simply provides moisture. And don't forget sun protection. The snow reflects the sun's rays, and you always want to be protected.

4. Itchy Scalp? Massage it.

Dry skin on your scalp leads to flakes and itching, something that most people want to avoid. If you're dealing with itchy scalp, get a conditioner made for dry hair and massage it onto your scalp with your fingertips while in the shower. This will not only buff off built up flakes, it will moisturize and soothe your itchy scalp.

Another good way to encourage extra oils in your scalp is to brush your hair at night with a gentle brush. Concentrate on the scalp. It not only feels good, it's good for your scalp as well.

5. Add Moisture into the Air

With furnaces running, doors and windows closed and air being recirculated constantly, dry air is all around, and that dry air enables dry skin. A humidifier will immensely help add moisture to your home's air. I remember my Grandmother simply filling a big bowl and setting it in front of her heat vents, so if your vents are off floor level, give that a try before purchasing a new piece of equipment.

6. Vaseline Works Wonders

I know, Vaseline isn't really the high-end pampering product you might want to buy, but Vaseline can be a skin-saver for dry skin in the winter months. There are so many uses for Vaseline as well.

• For extremely cracked hands and feet, apply and then put on cotton socks and gloves. Doing this will give immediate results.(If you can't sleep like this, find an hour or so during the day.)
• Apply to cracked cuticles
• Apply to small areas after exfoliating. (dry spots like elbows, knees and heels)
• Put over windburned cheeks before heading back outdoors. It will seal and protect. (Especially good for children.)
• This is amazing lip balm. You'll notice instant, yet long lasting hydration. (No SPF though.)

View the original article here

Dry, Split Lips in the Morning?

This is the time of year when many of us wake up with dry, tight lips that with one smile will split. Ouch!

And your kids (and husband!) aren't immune to this, either. The best way to ensure that you can give your spouse a wakeup smile without splitting your lips is to apply a thick moisturizer before bed. My household uses simple Vaseline, because love it or not, it works.? If you aren't a fan of Vaseline, maybe Waxeline is for you?

Have everyone in your family put a little dab on their lips before bed and notice the difference the first morning after. And while you're thinking about your lips, consider exfoliating them when you have dry, flaky skin. Nothing is worse than chapped lips, but a few simple steps can keep them hydrated and healthy, even in the winter.

View the original article here

10 Tips to Using Essential Oils Safely

One of About.com - Skin Care's most popular categories is our DIY skin care section of recipes and tips. I love making my own products and have quite the collection of butters, oils and fragrances in my office.? If you are a DIY-er, you might wonder about the differences in fragrance oils verses essential oils. It seems like many people start with fragrance oils because they are intimidated by essential oils.

Essential oils are all natural, fragrance oils are not.? This article on SoapQueen.com explains what goes into a fragrance oil.? Short answer: It's confidential and companies do not have to share that info with you.? If you are looking to dabble in Essential Oils, you should know that they can be dangerous and you need to handle them correctly.

Debra Duneier, author of the book EcoChi share 10 Tips for Essential Oils and even shared two recipes to get you started.? Read her tips and consider making some of your own oils, bath soaks and moisturizer.

Photodisk/Getty Images

View the original article here

How To Use Tria Laser

By pressing the large circle button, select which of the five settings you would like to use (Tria originally had three settings, but now has five). The highest setting gives off the most amount of heat for better hair reducing results.

You can always test out the setting to see how it feels and then change it during your treatment if it's uncomfortable or you'd like to take it up a notch.

I tested the device on my bikini line, follow me in my experience including what I thought about the discomfort in Testing Tria: Part I.

View the original article here

5 Valentine's Day Gifts for Her

Valentine's Day is only 5 days away! Have you thought about what you're going to get your sweetie? Chocolate and flowers are fine, but they really don't require much thought.? A girl wants to know you took the effort to think about your gift, not just grabbed flowers on your way home from work.

Here are five fun beauty gifts she will love.

• Philosophy: Sweet Talk Trio - A set of candy heart-scented products that include a body wash, lotion and lip gloss.
• Marc Jacobs: Oh Lola! Perfume - Described as vibrant, flirtatious and lighthearted, this fragrance, pictured here, has scents of raspberry, vanilla, peony, pear and cyclaman.
• Urban Decay: Sparkling Lickable Body Powder - Described as a tempting body powder that makes you look, smell, and taste like a bombshell. We'll let you use your imagination with this one.
• Vera Wang: Lovestruck - Described as a modern twist on Romeo and Juliet. Notes of pink guava, mandarin, tuberose, lotus blossom, precious woods, sheer musk. Beautiful!
• Charlotte Ronson: A Perfect Kiss Lip Gloss - If you're waiting for that first kiss, this heart-shaped lip gloss might be just the gift.

Image provided by Sephora

View the original article here