Category: Personal

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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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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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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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5 Reasons To Avoid DIY Sunscreen Options

Fans of DIY beauty often cite the overuse of chemicals as the primary reason for avoiding commercial beauty products. Understandably, people want clean, sustainable, and healthy products, especially when discussing items used on the skin. However, the matter gets complicated when talking about sunscreen.

Some advocates of the natural and DIY beauty movement disavow commercial sunscreen because of its dependence on chemicals. However, there is currently no DIY option considered safe or effective for personal use. According to several dermatologists, DIY methodologies can result in severe burns or a lack of UV protection — researchers found many formulas do not specify SPF protection. When tested, some recipes provided a sun protection factor of 2, well below the recommended SPF 30.

While DIY enthusiasts have legitimate objections to some ingredients in many popular sunscreen products, DIY options are not capable of protecting against UV rays. There are many reasons for DIY's failure to develop an adequate sunscreen replacement, but most experts agree on five.

1. Efficacy

How long does a DIY sunscreen last, what is its SPF, and how do you know? The problem with most DIY sunscreen options is a lack of research or evidence to support their efficacy. It is impossible to understand the effectiveness of a formula without testing it in a laboratory.

Commercial sunscreens undergo vigorous testing to ensure they are effective on various skin types, weather conditions, and applications. Without lab tests, you cannot know how effective a DIY option is, and you will be hard-pressed to find DIY recipes with documented lab results and scientific support for SPF and coverage claims.

2. Time Effectiveness

SPF protects your skin against erythema, also known as sunburn. The strength of the SPF indicates how long you can stay in the sun before your skin begins to turn red. However, the skin change induced by solar radiation is not a flawless method for identifying SPF strength or timing effectiveness because erythema can occur between six to 24 hours after exposure.

Therefore, while some people believe you can test the strength and effectiveness of a DIY sunscreen by sitting in the sun and waiting to see a reaction, the process in and of itself is ineffective. The only way to understand the SPF value and strength of the formula is in a lab.

3. Formulation Challenge

Even when a person finds an effective SPF carrier, all other ingredients in the sunscreen recipe affect the agent. Additionally, the SPF is further affected by the manufacturing process. Without a lab and rigorous testing, it is impossible to know if specific ingredients or methods dilute or bolster the SPF carrier.

4. Ingredient Stability

Stability is a complex issue when discussing sunscreen. A manufacturer must ensure that the products are stable with each other and photostable, meaning stable in the sun. On top of stability, concerns are concerns about degradation, oxidation, preservation, and clumping.

When sunscreen is not mixed precisely, it can become volatile or ineffective. Most DIY recipes are not built on the presence of consistency, effectively negating stability. Only a lab with the proper equipment can create an effective, stable sunscreen without presenting significant risks to the consumer.

5. Safety

Safety is the primary concern when discussing DIY sunscreen options. The mix of the wrong chemicals can result in burns, and using ineffective recipes leaves people exposed to UV rays. Dependence on DIY sunscreens can lead to greater sun exposure and increased skin cancer risks.

Commercial sunscreen is the only viable, reputable, and effective sunscreen option. DIY options are untested, variable, and unsafe.

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6 Teas To Lift the Clouds and Boost Your Mood

What could be cozier than a warm cup of tea on a cold, rainy morning? If you feel like you need to shake the blues before you snuggle up with your favorite throw and relax, consider that some types of tea can actually help alleviate unpleasant feelings like sadness, anxiety and stress. Here's the tea on the six best mood-boosting herbal blends to try.

1. Feel Calm With Chamomile

You're probably familiar with the tiny, adorable chamomile flower buds that commonly show up in bedtime tea blends. In addition to its relaxing scent, chamomile can create a soothing, warm sensation that helps with restful sleep. Research published in the journal Phytomedicine in 2016 even found that a regular regimen of chamomile tea reduced symptoms of moderate to severe generalized anxiety disorder.

2. Turn It Up With Tulsi

You might not even realize that you have the ingredients for tulsi tea growing in your garden. Sometimes called holy basil, tulsi has been shown in studies to improve mood and sharpen concentration when consumed in tea form. Simply steep the leaves along with a bit of ginger and cardamom for about five minutes, then add your preferred amount of honey and lemon for an instantly revitalizing brew.

3. Savor St. John's Wort

Although St. John's wort is a common supplement for depression in capsule form, it can also benefit your mood when taken as a tea. Some research suggests that this herbal ingredient can relieve symptoms of seasonal affective disorder, insomnia, anxiety and depression. In fact, the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health reports that St. John's wort may work as effectively as prescription antidepressants for some people who have mild to moderate symptoms, though it's important to make sure it doesn't interact with other meds you take.

4. Adapt With Ashwagandha

Look no further than this ancient tea if you need relaxation. Ashwagandha actually qualifies as a substance called an adaptogen, which allows your body ADAPT (get it?) to stress. Humans have been drinking this herbal tea for thousands of years to support maximum function of the brain, lower stress-causing cortisol levels and resolve symptoms of anxiety and depression. A 2019 study published in Medicine (Baltimore) found that drinking ashwagandha tea effectively reduced feelings of anxiety among participants.

5. Love That Lemon Balm

Part citrus tang, part minty zip, this tea is nearly guaranteed to become your new go-to. Lemon balm has a long history as a remedy for stress, anxiety, insomnia and depression, and it can also help sharpen your mental focus. It's no wonder that this herb, native to West Asia, North Africa and Europe, is now a popular potted plant all over the world. A study published in the journal Nutrients in 2014 even backed up lemon balm's ability to relieve anxiety and soothe stress.

6. Go for the Green

Why is green such a great color for foods and beverages? You know your green veggies are packed with antioxidants, vitamins and minerals, and green tea has similarly impressive health effects.

First and foremost, it contains an anxiety-alleviating amino acid called L-theanine. An animal study published by the Pakistan Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences also linked green tea to higher levels of serotonin and dopamine, two mood-regulating chemicals in the brain. In addition to the mental health benefits of green tea, it's packed with antioxidants that help fight cancer-causing free radicals and may support loss of fat cells.

When adding new herbal teas to your diet, check with your health care provider to make sure they don't interfere with any prescription or over-the-counter remedies you take. Some supplements can have unwanted effects when combined with other medications.

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How Often Should You Wash Your Pajamas

Pajamas. The comfortable apparel people wear to relax and sleep is a staple in many households. Many children wash up after dinner and partake in a nightly routine that includes changing into a colorful sleepwear set. Even many adults still wear complete pajama sets to settle into bed.

While pajamas are a clothing staple, people don't tend to give much thought to when the items are laundered. Some people have strict rules: PJs must be washed after every use. However, others take a more laid-back approach with a simple smell test.

Who is right? How often do pajamas need to go in the wash? For such a simple question, the answers are varied. The answer likely comes down to hygiene and personal preference.

Expert Opinions

According to the American Cleaning Institute, pajamas do not require regular washing. When sleeping, you are less active, less likely to sweat, and unlikely to experience any spills or stains. The ACI suggests washing every three to four wears. Good Housekeeping is a little more lenient than ACI, suggesting one wash per week is sufficient.

However, Martha Stewart, America's domestic guru, recommends washing after wearing bedwear once. For many Americans, daily washing of pajamas seems extreme; according to a Twitter poll, 46% of participants wash their PJs once per week.  

Based on the wide range of opinions, it appears there is no "right" way to wash your pajamas. Essentially. How often you launder your nightwear comes down to personal preference and hygiene.

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Necessary Washing

Do you get a shower before bed? Do you sweat while you sleep? What material is your sleepwear? All of these questions contribute to identifying a perfect washing routine for your pajamas. 

The body produces oils and sheds skin throughout the day and evening. If you take a shower in the morning like most people, the debris, oil, and dead skin from the day can transfer to your PJs while you sleep, which means you might want to wash them more often.

You cannot forget about bacteria. Bodies also collect a fair share of germs throughout the day, and some of these bacteria can survive on clothing, including pajamas.

You can wash your PJs less frequently if you shower at night before getting into your nightwear. Additionally, if your pajamas are made from wool or other materials that resist moisture, you can probably adhere to the once-a-week washing rule.

However, do you get night sweats? For people who frequently sweat while they sleep, you might want to take the Martha Stewart approach for washing pajamas.

Finally, it is important to note that smell is not always an indicator of cleanliness. While a pair of PJs might smell fresh, they can still have dead skin cells, bacteria, or other debris lingering in the fabric.

Clean PJs and Sleep

While the wash frequency might be a personal preference, keep in mind that clean pajamas can improve your sleep. Think about how comforting it is to lay down on fresh, clean bed linens; the same applies to clean pajamas. 

While experts might not agree on how often you should wash your nightwear, it seems like all agree you shouldn't go longer than a week. How often do you wash your PJs? Leave a comment.

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Save Your Scalp From Breakouts

Nothing ruins a good hair day like discovering a blemish on your scalp. The abundant oil glands and hair follicles are at the root of acne in this area. Over time, a buildup of oil along with dirt and dead skin cells can clog the pores, leading to pimples. Styling products such as gel, hairspray and mousse compound the problem by leaving residue behind. 

If you regularly experience acne around your hairline and beyond, you know how frustrating it can be. These smart strategies can help you banish scalp breakouts.

Switch Up Your Routine

Start the process of clearing up your scalp with a new hair care routine. Any products you use, including shampoo and conditioner, should be oil-free. Look for labels like anti-acnegenic or non-comedogenic to find formulas that won't clog your pores. This also applies to cosmetics like foundation and powder, as well as moisturizers, lotions and other skincare products.

You can try medicated shampoos with ingredients that help with the causes of scalp breakouts, such as:

  • Benzoyl peroxide and tea tree oil, which fight bacteria that leads to acne
  • Ciclopirox and ketoconazole, which combat fungal causes of acne
  • Glycolic acid and salicylic acid, which remove dead skin cells that clog the pores
  • Jojoba oil, which alleviates inflammation associated with acne

Skip hair products when you plan to stay home and try to use fewer formulas in general. Using multiple cosmetic items increases the chances of irritating and inflaming your scalp.

Step Up Your Schedule

If you tend to go more than a day or two without washing your hair, consider shampooing more frequently to stay on top of breakouts. It's especially important to wash your hair after you work out to get rid of excess sweat, dirt and oil. 

When you shampoo, focus your efforts on your scalp to clear away clogging materials. You can also use a soft-bristled brush to gently exfoliate the area. After washing and conditioning your hair, be sure to rinse completely. Soap and product residue can cause breakouts along the hairline.

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Keep It Clean

Contact with bacteria causes acne, so anything that touches your face, neck or head should be washed often. This includes pillowcases, bedding hats, headbands, visors and scarves. Clean phones and headsets frequently with antibacterial wipes.

Let the Scalp Breathe

If you spend several hours wearing a headscarf or hat each day, try to choose a looser garment to let air flow circulate to your scalp. When you're at home, leave your head bare if possible to prevent sweat and oil from becoming trapped.

Support Skin Health

Getting the right nutrients helps maintain the health of your skin, which means you'll experience fewer breakouts. Make sure you consume at least the recommended daily amount of vitamins A, D and E, either in your diet or with an over-the-counter supplement. Eating plenty of fresh fruits, whole grains and veggies supports overall wellness, which in turn keeps the scalp healthy.

Take Notes

Scalp breakouts sometimes result from allergic reactions. When you notice a blemish, write down your recent food and beverage intake. You may begin to see a pattern of acne that occurs when you eat certain ingredients, which will allow you to prevent the issue by avoiding these triggers. 

See a Dermatologist

Some cases of scalp acne require medical treatment. Your dermatologist may prescribe stronger acne medications, light therapy, antibiotics or steroids to resolve serious breakouts that don't respond to self-care at home.

Keep in mind that it can take up to six weeks to notice a difference in your scalp with these strategies. See your doctor if your acne continues with treatment or causes more severe symptoms, such as inflammation, infection and hair loss. 

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Learning To De-Stress This Holiday Season, So You Can Enjoy It

It's the most wonderful time of the year, or so they say. The holidays bring a lot of cheer, but they can also result in tremendous stress. The constant hustle and bustle can get a bit exhausting if you're unprepared, and while it is only a few months out of every year, the time can not go fast enough for some.

However, holidays should be enjoyable, and there is no reason they can't be still, especially if you learn to de-stress and embrace some straightforward changes. While some look at the holiday season as the season of obligations, others view it as a time to share, love, and reflect. Learning to de-stress is about changing your mindset and realizing you still have control.

Embrace the Power of "No"

There is this idea that saying "no" around the holidays is unconscionable, that somehow declining a party invitation will find you disowned by your family and friends, forever alone for the holidays yet to come. The imaginings of a lonely future typically result in people saying yes to any and every invite, leaving little room for self-care and reflection.

You should go to gatherings that you want to, and you should feel free to participate in traditions you enjoy. However, you also need to make sure that you leave room in your schedule to celebrate yourself.

Embracing "no" allows you to set aside time for self-improvement and empowerment, to focus on your health and sanity. You are allowed to say "no" to an invitation even without an excuse. You can say "no" simply because you need a break or want one.

Accept and Ask for Help

One of the joys of the holidays is inviting people over to visit and celebrate the season. The problem arises when an individual takes on the sole responsibility of providing entertainment, food, music, etc.

While you invited people, there is nothing wrong with asking for a bit of help. For instance, instead of taking on the burden of feeding 20 or 30 of your closest friends and family, consider throwing a potluck. Potlucks encourage participation and can help build community. Plus, a potluck will save you a load of money.

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Exercise and Meditate

The holidays are notorious for weight gain. People dive into celebrations, enjoying the sweets and possibly drinking a little too much. The problem with over celebrating is that people often forget to maintain their physical health, which can directly affect their mental health.

Physical activity encourages the production of endorphins, the feel-good hormones. Exercise also leads to more energy and a positive mood, which is crucial in the winter, especially with seasonal affective disorder.

Additionally, taking the time to meditate can positively influence mood and stress. Mindfulness is known to reduce the production of cortisol, the stress hormone. It can also provide necessary moments of quiet and reflection.

Learn To Laugh

It is easy to become overwhelmed and stressed out during the holidays, but it is necessary to find enjoyment. Try not to take the holidays too seriously and expect the failure or disruption of plans because life happens after all.

Just take everything with a grain of salt and take a few deep breaths. Remind yourself that stress will pass and that the true spirit of the holiday is celebration, family, and love.

The holiday season is a reminder to cherish all of the important things in life, but it is also a time to celebrate yourself and where you are on your journey. Embrace traditions, but remember to take time for yourself.

What is your favorite holiday tradition? Comment below.