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5 Ways To Quickly Reduce the Appearance of Cellulite

Cellulite is as natural as gray hairs, crow’s feet and underarm “batwings.” And, like these three undeniable indicators of age, cellulite is less than welcome. If you are among the 85% of women who seem to develop just a bit more cellulite with each passing birthday, and if you’re tired of feeling a sense of dread every time you check out your bum, stomach or thighs in the mirror, rest assured in the knowledge that cellulite does not have to be forever. With a few easy tricks, you can reduce the appearance of cellulite and go out into the world with confidence once again.

1.    Drink Your Daily 8 Cups

Dehydration can cause even the most taut areas of your body to appear wrinkled and saggy, so it makes sense that, when dehydrated, areas of cellulite appear more pronounced. By starting each day with just half a liter of water and consuming up to three liters per day, you can drastically reduce the appearance of dimpled skin. Rumor has it that if you add two to three lemons to your first glass of water, or by swallowing a teaspoon of apple cider first thing in the morning, you can kickstart the benefits.

2.    Massage the Cellulite Away

Cellulite is often the result of fluid buildup in the lymph nodes in the areas around the dimpled skin. By massaging on and around the areas of cellulite, you can encourage lymphatic draining and, in the process, reduce the appearance of cellulite. Massage can also help stretch the skin and make it appear firmer.

3.    Maintain a Healthy Diet

Despite popular belief, weight and cellulite are not directly related. However, low metabolism and cellulite are. By eating a healthy diet that is rich in leafy greens, whole grains, fibrous foods and other nutritious substances — and by avoiding salt, sugary beverages and processed foods — you can speed up your metabolism and reduce the severity of dimpled skin.

As a bonus, a healthy diet can help you reduce your body fat and achieve and maintain a healthy weight. Though, as already stated, there is not a direct correlation between weight and cellulite, increased muscle tone can diminish the bumpy appearance of fat cells and make your skin look firm and smooth.

4.    Use a Homemade Coffee Scrub

Coffee contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. As such, research suggests that, when applied topically, it can help reduce low-grade inflammation and improve blood flow, two outcomes that can help diminish the appearance of cellulite. If you’re a coffee drinker, set aside your used grounds each morning in a jar or a plastic bag. The next time you shower, use a loofa, washcloth or old toothbrush, and massage the coffee grounds into the problem areas. Let them soak in and really get to work while you wash your face, lather your hair, etc. Then, rinse off as normal.

Another homemade scrub that has promise as a quick cellulite treatment is the coffee, raw honey and cucumber juice mixture. Mix these three ingredients until you form a thick paste, then apply to the problem areas a few minutes before you hop in the shower.

5.    Use Self-Tanner

Though not a permanent fix, tanning lotion can help hide fine lines, wrinkles and cellulite. If you’re only concerned about cellulite when you wear certain outfits, use self-tanners to blur its appearance for the day.

Cellulite is completely natural, but that doesn’t mean it’s always welcome. Whether you want to hide it for a day or get rid of it completely, give the above five tricks a try.

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3 Ingredients To Combat Large Pores

Most people are familiar with the idea that warm water opens the pores and cold water closes them, but this is incorrect. Pores are not like doorways that can open and close on demand. Pores are openings in the skin that allow sebum to the surface and provide room for follicles to grow.

You can have narrow or wide pores because they dilate. The shrinking and enlarging results from many factors, none of which are water temperature. The primary causes of enlarged pores include:

  • Gender
  • Genetics
  • Aging
  • Sun damage
  • Oil
  • Impurities

Enlarged pores make the skin appear spotty and damaged. Thankfully, you can do many things to reduce the appearance of large pores. Three ingredients can help combat large pores and make your face appear clean and smooth.

Top 3 Skincare Ingredients To Combat Large Pores

1. Lactic Acid and Other Acids

Lactic acid is part of a group of acids known as alpha hydroxy acids. AHAs help to exfoliate the skin. Exfoliation is crucial to reducing pores size because enlarged pores result from congestion, buildup, and bacteria.

AHAs help remove dead cells from the skin and clean the pores, reducing the risk of future clogs when used daily. Lactic acid is one of the gentlest AHAs, meaning it is helpful to even the most sensitive skin types. It is also more hydrating than other acids. Lactic acid has many benefits for the user, including:

  • Brightened skin
  • Reduction of wrinkles and fine lines
  • Retention of moisture
  • Improved cell turnover
  • Gentle exfoliation

2. Extract From the Red Clover Flower

A member of the legume family, red clover is a wild plant. Medical researchers point to several health benefits of the plant, including the treatment of:

  • Whooping cough
  • Respiratory problems
  • Cancer
  • Skin inflammation

Researchers suggest the extract can clear acne spots and refine skin texture in 15 days, depending on the severity of the condition. The extract can also reduce sebum production and remove dead skin cells.

When paired with lactic acid, the natural ingredient can reduce the risks of clogs and prevent mechanical dilation of large pores. Also, red clover extract increases contraction, enabling pores to shrink.

3. Ribose From Corn Seeds

Ribose speeds up cell turnover and increases cellular energy. The ingredient encourages the synthesis of elastin and collagen proteins. These structural proteins improve elasticity and tighten the skin, allowing pores to constrict or shrink. Additionally, ribose returns energy to the cells, helping the skin appear brighter.

Adopt a Skincare Routine

You must adopt a routine to see results from using the above ingredients. Progress comes from the commitment to a product and process. A daily skincare routine can be as simple as:

  • Wash with warm water
  • Exfoliate
  • Rinse
  • Moisturize

You can and should speak with a dermatologist to learn more about specific products or prescriptions to help clear up your complexion. Schedule an appointment with a local dermatologist before using or starting a new skincare routine.

Large pores result from debris, excess oil, and clogs. Using skin care products with specific ingredients can reduce the size of pores and restore elasticity and smoothness to the face and skin.

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Laundry Stripping: The Process and Its Effectiveness

Laundry stripping is the latest social media sensation. With videos raking in millions of views, social media "gurus" claim the aggressive cleaning and soaking method can revitalize dingy clothing.

According to advocates of the practice, stripping cleans fabric of buildup from detergent, fabric softener, and soil. As evidence, laundry strippers post videos of bathtubs filled with brown or discolored water after overnight soaks.

Despite positive reviews from proponents, fabric-care scientists explain that discolored water is a result of buildup and dyes and fibers. Stripping is a harsh process and is not suitable for all fabrics, especially delicate materials.

Effectiveness of Laundry Stripping

Despite its aggressiveness, laundry stripping is an effective process. What makes it effective is the chemical solution of washing soda, borax, powdered detergent, and hot water.

Because the process can also leech dyes and natural oils in fabrics, you must check laundry care tags. The tag should state whether a material can handle hot water soaking.

Laundry Stripping and Fabric Safety Concerns

Despite the hype, laundry stripping is not safe for many fabrics. Some items you should not put through the process include:

  • Wool
  • Workout clothes (spandex)
  • Cold-water clothing
  • Dark fabrics

Laundry stripping is most effective on light-colored sheets and towels. These items' thickness, size, and bulk make detergent buildup more likely.

How To Strip Laundry

Some washing machines allow for extended soaks, but that does not mean they can handle the stripping solution. Many appliance manufacturers like Maytag do not recommend laundry stripping in a washer. Manufacturers recommend trying traditional detergents and additives in a long, hot machine soak followed by a rinse cycle.

If you insist on trying the laundry stripping process, you will want to use a large bucket or your bathtub. The process has six steps:

  1. Fill your preferred reservoir with extremely hot water.
  2. Mix 1 cup powdered laundry detergent with 1/4 cup of borax and a 1/4 cup of washing soda.
  3. Submerge laundry in the solution and stir.
  4. Leave the laundry in the solution overnight, stirring occasionally.
  5. Drain the reservoir and rinse the laundry in the washing machine or by hand.
  6. Dry the laundry as usual.

Frequency of Stripping

While some people might want to use laundry stripping often, it is best to reserve the method to only a few times per year. Performing the process too often can damage your fabrics. Also, buildup does not occur fast enough to warrant the method over two to three times per year.

You can usually tell when materials need stripping. Fabrics can feel sticky, smell stale, or feel coarse. Towels might lose their absorbency, and color can become faded or dingy. You should only use stripping when clothing or materials show signs of buildup.

Avoiding Build-Up in the First Place

Laundry stripping is unnecessary if you take necessary precautions when doing laundry. Arguably, the best way to avoid stripping is to use the correct amount of detergent. Too many people use too much detergent. You can also try a few other techniques, including:

  • Not adding detergent and softener together
  • Adding softener during the rinse cycle only
  • Using an extra rinse cycle
  • Not loading the washer over 3/4 of the way
  • Reading detergent directions for measurements

Laundry stripping is effective for removing detergent and soil buildup. Unfortunately, the process can also strip dyes and natural oils, meaning it can harm some fabrics. It is better to use an extra rinse cycle and accurate detergent measurements to avoid buildup altogether.

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Should You Chew Caffeinated Gum? Pros, Cons and Weird Effects

A cup of coffee (or three) in the morning is more than a pleasant ritual: It’s an important way to wake up, get the blood flowing and stay focused at work. Of course, coffee isn’t everyone’s — pardon the pun — cup of tea. Now, some people are switching to trendy caffeinated gum for their morning jolt of energy. What is this new pick-me-up, and how safe is it?

Caffeinated Gum Bootcamp

Caffeine gum looks and tastes like other gum, but it has a serious amount of caffeine as the star ingredient. Caffeine content varies by brand, ranging from 10 mg to 100 mg per piece. In comparison, a small cup of brewed coffee has 100 mg on average.

Athletes, Fighters and … Working Moms?

The U.S. military has used caffeine gum during special forces operations for a long time. When soldiers need a performance boost or have to stay alert for long periods, they pop a piece of the supercharged gum.

Now,  everyday people are getting in on the action. When working parents have to leave early for work, instead of a drive-thru, a piece of caffeinated gum provides the shot of adrenaline they need. When they hit an afternoon energy slump, it’s time for — you guessed it — more gum.

A Bite-Sized Energy Boost

How effective is caffeine gum? That depends on the amount of caffeine in each brand. A shot of 100 mg of caffeine can undoubtedly make a difference:

  • Alertness: The caffeine rush wakes you up big time, getting rid of grogginess and brain fog, and kicking your brain into high gear.
  • Mental performance: Caffeine can improve mental focus, learning, memory and reaction times.
  • Energy levels and mood: Caffeinated gum can energize your muscles and mind, chasing away tiredness and holding back fatigue. Caffeine also stimulates feelings of wellness and encourages a positive mood.
  • Muscle performance: Caffeinated gum offers significant improvements in muscle performance and endurance (about 5%). In other words, it really can help athletes run faster, swim further and play harder.
  • Fast caffeine absorption: A big advantage of caffeine gum versus coffee is that chewing gets the caffeine into your bloodstream more quickly. You get an energy boost right away. Plus, a small pack of gum is pretty convenient on the go.

The Darker Side of Caffeinated Gum

Coffee, energy drinks and other caffeine sources always have a few risks to keep in mind. You mainly need to limit your total caffeine intake. Too much caffeine can trigger negative effects:

  • Anxiety
  • High blood pressure
  • Racing heart rate
  • Dizziness
  • Dehydration
  • Insomnia
  • Headaches

Swapping coffee for gum also means you’re getting less water. To stay hydrated, you would need to increase your liquid intake.

How Much Caffeine?

Doctors generally say that 400 mg of caffeine a day is safe. Caffeinated gum can make things tricky because it’s so easy to pop too many pieces. Even the Department of Defense tells soldiers to use caution with the stuff:

  • Chew only one piece of gum at a time
  • Wait 15 minutes before chewing another
  • Don’t have more than two pieces in three hours
  • Don’t go beyond four to eight pieces a day

Another option is to choose great energy-boosting alternatives such as green tea or matcha powder juices and smoothies. They provide the benefits of caffeine but also deliver filling protein and fiber, protect your cells with antioxidants, and keep you hydrated.

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Why ‘Brutal Honesty’ Is a Relationship Red Flag

You've probably heard it before; a friend or family member says something insulting to you, then claims they were only being 'brutally honest.' This statement can leave you wondering whether you were right to be offended and whether your loved one has your best interests in mind.

Many people wear this questionable character trait as a badge of honor. And as you might already know, brutally honest people typically don't have your best interests in mind when speaking their truth.

How to Distinguish Between Honesty and Brutality

Honesty is a crucial aspect of all healthy relationships. The key is to be honest without judging the other person. If your partner is unhappy with your contributions around the house, they should broach the issue directly but in a constructive way. This entails offering solutions and providing support to get everyone on the same page.

Conversely, brutal honesty is concerned with tearing the other party down. Instead of just addressing the issue, the brutally honest person will call your character into question. Using the above example regarding housework, they may claim that you're lazy or unmotivated, whereas the issue might stem from a new work schedule or recent illness.

Signs That You're Being Emotionally Abused

For some people, brutal honesty strays into the territory of abuse. Identifying abuse in your relationships can be challenging, especially romantic ones. And while every relationship is different, the following signs typically indicate that abuse is occurring:

  • Harsh Personal Critiques - It's OK to find fault with a loved one's actions, and it's also OK to call those actions out. What's not OK is harshly criticizing a person, especially someone you're supposed to love. 
  • Claims of Over-Sensitivity or Irrationality - It's normal to be sensitive after someone insults or belittles you. Many abusers use this claim to cast doubt on the other person's rationality and reasonability, which causes them to question themselves in the future. 
  • Assumption of Motivations - Even people who've known each other for years can't read each other's minds. Be wary if a loved one claims to know what you're thinking as a means of placing blame on you. For example, they may say you have malicious intent when you do not.

Manipulation - Abusers will also claim that they're the ones actually receiving the poor treatment. This is often the case when you respond to something the person said strongly, in which case they might turn it around and claim that you're the one being abusive. 

What You Can Do About a Brutally Honest Person

The first step is to broach the subject with your loved one. Remain calm and collected as you discuss how their words hurt. Displays of emotion are normal and natural, but they can provide the other person fodder for their baseless claims. Use examples that have occurred in your life and use clear, concise language to explain how they made you feel.

Pay close attention to your loved one's response. If they express genuine dismay that they hurt you and promise to do better, it may be possible to move forward. However, if the cycle of brutal honesty simply begins again, you might want to consider whether the relationship is worthwhile.

You Deserve a Loving and Kind Relationship

You deserve respectful treatment, regardless of the type of relationship or how long you've known the person. And if the person is reluctant to alter their behaviors, they're prioritizing their brutal outlook on life over your feelings.

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Upgrading a Traditional Pasta Salad With 4 Healthy Ingredients

Most people assume pasta salad is unhealthy and, depending on the ingredients; they aren't wrong. The average pasta salad contains loads of carbohydrates and fats.

For people trying to lose weight or eat a heart-healthy and carb-friendly diet, pasta salad seems like an obvious no-go — unless you make a few healthy changes. Swapping out standard white pasta for whole grain pasta is one healthy alternative, as is using an oil substitute like avocado or applesauce. Besides swapping the two primary ingredients for healthier options, you can include additional items to increase the nutritional value.

1. Tomatoes

Tomatoes are a powerhouse of vitamins and minerals, but that is not the only thing that makes them unique. The bright red food contains lycopene, which produces its color and supports the immune system.

Lycopene-rich foods reduce your risk of certain cancers and diseases. The substance helps the body, in part, by fighting free radicals that can damage cells. Lycopene may also reduce levels of LDL or "bad" cholesterol.

2. Bell Peppers

Like tomatoes, bell peppers are nutritionally rich. While the peppers contain many vitamins and antioxidants, the level of vitamin C and various carotenoids make the food exceptionally healthy.

Vitamin C, or ascorbic acid, is essential to several bodily functions, including wound healing, collagen production, iron absorption, immune system performance, and the maintenance of teeth, bones, and cartilage. One bell pepper contains 169% of your recommended daily intake.

Carotenoids are the compounds that give bell peppers their vibrant colors. They also act as antioxidants in humans. Bell peppers contain several carotenoids, including:

  • Capsanthin (red bell peppers)
  • Violaxanthin (yellow bell peppers)
  • Lutein (green bell peppers)

3. Arugula

As a cruciferous vegetable, arugula is a dark leafy green similar to kale or cabbage. The flavor profile is spicy and bitter and only gets stronger with age. It can be the perfect addition to a pasta salad, especially if lacking a little kick.

The vegetable is a rich source of antioxidants, but what makes it unique is glucosinolate and vitamin K. Glucosinolate causes the potent scent and bitter taste of the plant; it also can reduce the risks and protect against certain cancers.

Vitamin K is essential for bone building and blood clotting. People who consume enough of the nutrient can reduce their risk of osteoporosis. One cup of arugula provides nearly 22 mcg of the 80 mcg daily recommended requirement.

4. Chickpeas

Chickpeas are an excellent protein source because they are a complete protein: they contain all nine essential amino acids, the keys to proper bodily function. Also, the legume contains several vital nutrients and a generous amount of fiber.

Choline, an organic, water-soluble compound, is present in chickpeas. The compound is unique because it contributes to a healthy brain and functioning nervous system.

Aside from being a vegetarian and vegan-friendly protein, chickpeas promote weight control and cardiovascular health, control blood sugar spikes, and maintain gastrointestinal health. The legumes also provide a lovely texture and subtle flavor to pasta salad.

Pasta salad is traditionally unhealthy, loaded with carbs and "bad" fats. However, you can alter the conventional perception of the dish by upgrading, eliminating, and adding certain ingredients. Using whole grain pasta and healthy fat as a foundation, you can add tomatoes, bell peppers, arugula, and chickpeas to the salad for flavor and crunch. The upgraded salad will be much healthier than the pasta salads you're used to.

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Why You Should Never Store Sunscreen in the Car

As ironic as it sounds, sunscreen and sunlight don’t mix. Elevated temperatures cause the ingredients in sunscreen to break down, making it less effective at protecting your skin against UV rays. That SPF 50 suddenly becomes SPF 15 or worse without you knowing. To keep your skin safe, take good care of your sunscreen.

Common Mistakes When Storing Sunscreen

If you’ve ever ended up with a sunscreen that looks like cottage cheese, overheating is the reason why. Here’s how it usually happens:

  • Keeping sunscreen in the car: On paper, this sounds like a great idea. The problem is that vehicle interiors get insanely hot. Comfortable 70-degree weather outside translates to 104 degrees Fahrenheit inside the car, and that’s in just half an hour!
  • Leaving the bottle in direct sunlight: At the beach, some people slap on sunscreen, toss the bottle on top of their towel and jump into the water for a swim. Unfortunately, direct sunlight cooks sunscreen like an egg on the sidewalk.
  • Storing sunscreen near sunny windows: A cool house doesn’t mean sunscreen is safe from the sun’s rays. Keep your sunscreen somewhere else if the sun shines on your desk or nightstand during the day.
  • Forgetting to close the cap: Leaving the sunscreen bottle open can let hot air, bacteria, sand and salt inside. This combination isn’t good for your skin. When sunscreen smells funny or looks yellow instead of white, it’s time to buy a new bottle.

Tips for Keeping Your Sunscreen Cool at the Beach

At home, it’s pretty easy to keep sunscreen at the right temperature. However, things are trickier when planning to spend all day at the lake or the beach. Follow these tips to keep sunscreen cool when it’s blazing hot outside:

  • Wrap the bottle in a towel: Layers help insulate your sunscreen from the sun. Fold the towel in half and wrap away until your bottle is snug as a bug.
  • Use a large tote: Instead of a small purse, opt for your mammoth beach tote with snacks, water, sunglasses and other beach essentials. This gives sunscreen an extra barrier against the sun.
  • Take along a beach umbrella: Shade is your best bet for keeping sunscreen cool. At the lake, set up camp under a shade tree. At the beach, make your own shade with an umbrella. Beach umbrellas also protect your skin if you decide to nap on the sand.
  • Bring the ‘screen with you to the bathroom: If you need to run off to the bathroom, take your sunscreen with you, so it gets a chance to cool off. You need to reapply every few hours anyway.

Every Day Is Skin Protection Day

Using sunscreen every day is a great habit for skin health. At home, store it somewhere easy to reach and comfortably cool, such as a bathroom countertop or bedroom dresser. At the office, keep it in clear view instead of stashing it in a drawer. That way, it’s easier to remember to apply sun protection regularly.

To enhance your barrier against UV rays and keep skin moist, make sure you’re getting plenty of antioxidants. These natural cellular protectors are found in blueberries, black raspberries, strawberries, goji berries, pecans, red cabbage and leafy greens.

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Try One of These 5 Techniques When Meeting New Neighbors

Moving to a new home is often intimidating, especially when you are not local. For neighborhood newcomers, a smile and warm welcome go a long way. 

For many ingratiated neighbors, greeting strangers can feel awkward, but it is a necessary aspect of neighborly behavior. Welcoming others as you were once likely welcomed is a way of paying it forward and making friends. Friendships cultivate a caring and trusting neighborhood, one that thrives. 

When greeting your new neighbors, you want to ensure decorum and respect. Moving is often turbulent and time-consuming, so ensure any greetings are brief and polite. Let your new neighbors take the reins of the visit. There are several nonintrusive ways to greet new neighbors and create instant chemistry. 

1. Stop By

Move-in day is a busy time for your new neighbors, which makes it an ideal opportunity to introduce yourself without all the awkward silence. You only want to walk over, say hello, and return home. While you are talking to them, consider offering your help. Most neighborhood newcomers will deny the assistance because it is too early in the relationship, but they will appreciate the gesture.  

Sometimes, an initial meet-and-greet is easier with a small group of neighbors. A group can remove any pressure you or your new neighbor might feel facing off one-on-one. 

2. Leave a Greeting Card

Not everyone feels comfortable walking over to a stranger and introducing themselves, especially when that stranger is trying to move into their new home. If you are shy or dislike being a bother, you might consider the simple gesture of a greeting card.

Leaving a welcome to the neighborhood greeting card in a newcomer's mailbox is a beautiful way to introduce yourself without feeling like a nuisance. You can leave your name and phone number, allowing your new neighbor to initiate in-person contact.

3. Host a Welcome Event

Group activities can be a fantastic way to introduce someone new to the neighborhood. For instance, a block party or neighborhood potluck is an excellent way to make introductions without all the pressure that often accompanies one-on-one meetings.

4. Gift Takeout Menus

Uprooting your life to a new location is physically and emotionally exhausting, and it is something most people can relate to. If you remember anything about moving, it is likely the desire just to sit and relax after a long day's work. No one wants to stand over a hot stove or hunch in front of an oven after moving furniture and boxes all day.

A pile of quality takeout menus is one of the most practical and undervalued gifts you can give a new neighbor. Most likely, your new neighbor will live off takeout for a couple of weeks while getting situated; they will probably love having more options than fast food.

5. Create a Personal Gift Basket or Bag

Gift baskets have a long-standing tradition as perfect gifts for strangers. While you can opt for a pre-made basket or goodie bag, a custom option will show more of your personality.

If you want to get really creative, you can include some treats from your favorite local bakery or gift cards to your favorite spots around town. Your new neighbor is sure to appreciate the gesture.

Moving to a new neighborhood can feel intimidating. Having happy, enthusiastic, and welcoming neighbors can help ease newcomers' potential anxieties. Remember, welcoming someone to the area can be as simple as saying hello.

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Sandal Season Is Prime Foot Care Season

After hiding your feet in boots, sneakers, and heels during the long fall and winter months, the spring arrives to give your toes a chance to breathe. With more exposure to the sun and environment, you need to take extra care of your feet in the spring and summer, especially if you want to take full advantage of the sandal season.

Many people are self-conscious about their feet. Since feet are often covered, wearing open toes can make some feel a little exposed. Some people might feel their feet are unattractive or unworthy of sandals, but that's simply not true. With the right foot care regimen, all feet deserve a little time in the sun.

1. Soak and Exfoliate

All the time spent inside a dark shoe can lead to roughness. Also, the lack of a foot care routine in the winter — a common lapse among even the most committed foot lovers — can cause the development of calluses.

The first thing you need to do to prepare for sandals is indulge in a soak and exfoliation. You do not want to go right at rough skin; you want to let your feet soak in warm water for about 10 minutes to soften the skin. Only after soaking the skin should you apply an exfoliating cream to the entire foot. Follow the instructions of the product you use. If you would prefer a more automated method of exfoliation, you can purchase an automatic foot buffer or scrubber.

2. Moisturize

The skin on the bottom of your feet is thicker and requires regular and intense hydration. Dermatologists and podiatrists recommend using creams, butters, or balms after exfoliation treatments. Most professionals recommend applying a shea butter-type moisturizer on your feet before bed every night.

Before you use any products on your feet, you might want to talk to your podiatrist first. Your doctor can help you identify the best products for your skin, and you can avoid any potential risks, such as allergens.

3. Cuticle and Toenail Care

Many people go to nail salons and have their cuticles cut. Healthcare professionals do not advise the removal of cuticles. To ensure the healthiest cuticles, professionals recommend using cuticle oil every day. The oil will help moisturize scraggly and dry cuticles, helping the body shed dead skin and maintain a healthy appearance.

If you have yellowing or dark toenails, manicurists suggest using a whitening toothpaste on them. However, before attempting any DIY and cosmetic treatment, ensure the color change is not a result of an infection.

4. Pedicure Top Coats

Many people spend good money on pedicures. The problem with pedicures is they don't last long. To prolong a pedicure, professionals recommend applying a clear top coat on the second and fifth days after treatment.

Sunscreen is also the enemy of a long-lasting pedicure, which is why you should always carry fresh wet wipes. After applying sunscreen, use a wipe to clear away excess on your toenails.

5. Sandal Selection

Sandals made from synthetic materials are often cheaper than those made from leather. Leather sandals, however, are worth the upgrade.

Leather soles, uppers, and foot straps have more give than man-made materials. The extra breathability reduces the risks of blisters and other potential foot problems.

While foot care is essential all year, most people take special care in the summer, when it is time to showcase your toesies. The above routine is a healthy and fundamental foot care routine. If you want more information, talk to your podiatrist or another foot health professional.

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4 Alternatives to Traditional Glute Workouts

The glutes are among the strongest muscles in the human body. The glutes are critical to daily activities from walking, standing, sitting, and bending. At a physiological level, the backside is the foundation for good posture, maintaining a neutral pelvis, and ensuring correct lumbar curvature. Aside from providing necessary stability, many people consider toned hindquarters attractive.

There are several exercises for toning and strengthening the glutes. Some of the more common bun exercises include:

  • Squats 
  • Glute bridges 
  • Glute kickbacks 
  • Abductor raises (fire hydrants)

Unfortunately, most people do not perform these workouts correctly, rendering them useless. To strengthen and tone your rear, you need to focus on form and follow-through. People may want to exchange traditional glute workouts for easier and more targeted alternatives.

1. Exchange Quarter Squats for Deep Goblet Squats

Squats are one of the foremost exercises for building glute muscles, but too many people ignore proper form. Most people perform quarter or mini squats, exaggerating a hip thrust to engage the buttocks. Shallow squats do little to build or tone the glutes, regardless of the number of reps.

A better exercise is a goblet squat. You will need a kettlebell or dumbbell to perform this variation of a squat. Hold the weight to your chest, move into a squat position by hinging at your hips, but don't stop. You want to sink to a full depth. To return to a standing position, push up using your glutes and hamstrings, ensuring your knees track outwards.

2. Alter the Speed and Posture of Glute Bridges

Glute bridges are an effective exercise, but form and movement matter. Too many people rush the activity, acting like they are in a bad 80s workout infomercial.

A glute bridge requires slow, deliberate movement to activate the proper muscle groups. You start the exercise on your back, pulling your heels in until they almost touch your butt. Tighten your core muscles, and then, putting the force into your heels, lift your butt off the floor. Keeping your core tight and back supported, continue the lift to your full range of motion. Squeeze your glutes at the peak and hold before slowly lowering to the starting position. This exercise is about engaging the right muscles and moving slowly and steadily.

3. Change Kickbacks to Romanian Deadlifts

Despite the popularity of glute kickbacks, the exercise is challenging for most beginners. Many people think they are doing the exercise correctly, but in reality, they often fail to engage the glutes. The movement also creates risks of injury.

A safer and more effective exercise is the Romanian deadlift. You will need a set of dumbbells. Hold a dumbbell of equal weight in each hand. With a straight back and arms at your sides, hinge at the hips, slowly lowering the weights. Lower to your full range of motion before slowly lifting yourself back to the starting position.

4. Cut Fire Hydrants for the Curtsy Lunge

Like kickbacks, abductor raises, or fire hydrants are potentially problematic and ineffective glute workouts. Many people hinder the strengthening of their glutes by compensating for imbalances; transferring tension to other areas of the body.

The curtsy lunge is a more effective glute workout. Put your weight on the right leg. Move your left leg back, crossing it behind your body in a curtsy-like position. You will dip into the lunge, putting the weight of your body on the outside of the right foot. Perform several reps before switching to the left leg.

Strong, defined glutes require exercise. The correct exercises should reduce injury risks and ensure proper form.