How to take care of dry elbows (REQUEST)

''The ''Lift and Tone'' is great, can you write some home made spa procedures for the body? I have dry elbows and I really hope you would have something that could help me, thanks.''
 

 First I want to apologize for the late response, I just finished my summer brake and had to go back to work and school. But I promise that I will keep posting for those of you who follow my blog. Thank you for the interest :)
 

 Ok so, dry elbows, maybe we should start off with the causes....If you have dry skin, there is an excellent chance for your elbows to become dry with time, especially considering how often we use them as mini stands to hold your head, read a book, lean on a surface and so 

forth. I would advice you to try avoiding doing that, or cut back on it.  Dry elbows may also be a symptom of an improperly functioning thyroid gland. If you've tried all kinds of things and they didn't work, you should visit a doctor. 
 

 I don't really have that much experience with dry elbows because I’m ''blessed'' with oily skin, which means that my skin is resistant to wrinkles and dry spots. As are all the ladies with oily skin, so count yourself lucky girls ;). But i know that for dry skin usually sea salt is very helpful. 
 

 You could try mixing A little bit of sea salt with olive oil and steer it until it turns into a thick paste, you could also use sugar, but i think that salt would be better, and don't forget, sea salt, not the regular one. Leave it on your skin for 10-20 minutes and wash off.

 You could remove the dead skin from your elbows with the juice of one lemon and sea salt, again mixed into a  nice thick paste, put it on your elbows and scrub for a  few minutes, then wash off. This is helpful but you'd have to do it several times a week for a  few weeks before it shows.
 I hope this will help you, let me know how it worked out for you in the comments. :)

How to get back to your routine after the summer break PART 2

 A few days ago i posted the first part of this article (http://glidzyglam.blogspot.com/2012/09/how-to-get-back-to-your-routine-after.html) And i gave you guys some advice on how to get enough sleep and feel fresh as a carrot during the day.  And in the last paragraph i told you what this part is going to be about, so let's get started.

 Typical morning for some of us starts with the alarm ringing, and with the thought ''just 5 more minutes'' and before we know it. We have 10 minutes before school/work starts. We rush like crazy leave a huge mess, and feel horribly tired trough out the day. So here are my tips for getting trough the day and still look glamorous.

1. You probably won't have time to make coffee in the morning, but stop by  a coffee when you go to school/work. Drink it black, it will have a  better effect.
2. Go to the bathroom, wash your hands and use the water that's left on them and pat your face, then pat it with a tissue.
3. Apply a bit of cover up (I usually always keep a small lipstick shape cover up for cases like that, they are cheap and a total life saver.) Put it under your eyes and anywhere you see redness, just a  bit, this will make your skin look smooth and fresh. Then put a little bit of powder. This way it won't be too obvious that you were in a  rush in the morning.
4. Drink lots of water, it will bring oxygen to your skin, and you will get a nice healthy glow.
5. Put your hair in a  pony tail, or a bun. This way you will hide the fact that you haven't showered and haven't had time to do your hair. Bonus you will look very classy and professional.
6. Don't use strong eye shadow or lipstick, stick to the natural look, a  bit of eye liner and mascara, plus skin color lipstick or gloss will be a perfect solution. 
7. Put on a little perfume, use some citrus scent. The citrus smell gives the impression of freshness.
8. Eat something, something sugary, and don't worry about calories, almost everything we eat in the morning is burned by lunch.
9. Listen to some music, something energetic. It will stimulate your brain and wake you up.
10. Don't stay in one place for too long. Walk around the office/school, talk with people, don't let the tiredness warm its way in your body.

 These are my tips for staying fresh trough the day. Give me some feedback on what you'd like the next article to be about.  Follow us on twitter @GlidzyGlam1

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How to get back to your routine after the summer break PART 1

 As much as we don't want it to, summer is ending, which means back to school/work for all of us. And I think I am not the only one who finds it extremely hard to get back into a routine, getting up early going to work/school and managing to give my best there.

 So today's post will be about some tips on how to get from the laziness of summer to the business of fall. Some of you must have noticed that I’m still in high school, but I also work so I know a thing or two on the topic, how to stay fresh during the day. I start school at 07:30, which means getting up really early so I can make it.

 First thing is, how to avoid the feeling you get when you hear the alarm clock in the morning, I used to get it a lot, and I just couldn't get out of bed, and when I did, I was rushing and I was always late. So I decided to take a different approach this year. You're probably thinking ''now she's going to say, go to bed really early..'', well that helps, but there are other things as well.
 

 Like, you have to find something you like in your job/school, something you will look forward to in your day. That will give you some motivation to get up. 

 Indians were drinking lots of water so they can wake up early, it helps A LOT, drink half a litter of water right before bed (if you don't drink much during the day, drink a whole liter. I guarantee that you will get up, like it or not you will have to.

  Don't shower right before bed, that will refresh you, save it for the morning, and don't wash your hair in the morning. Just get under the shower, and switch hot and cold water, it's called Dutch Shower. 

 Don't take naps during the day. When I start feeling really sleepy, I usually make myself a hot coffee if it's mid-day, if it's evening 18:00+, I usually  do my acne routine (http://glidzyglam.blogspot.com/2012/09/a-good-acne-routine.html ),... it will refresh you for another 2 or 3 hours.

 If you have to get up really early, like me, DO NOT go to bed after midnight. Just think of how much time it would take you to get ready, and make sure you have at least 7 hours of sleep each night. Not just for beauty, this is very important for your whole body, you don't feel it now, but lack of sleep might cause some serious problems with your health in the future.

 Eat healthy, and avoid huge amounts of food at dinner, or any part of the day. I used to attack the fridge when I come home, but now I try eating smaller portions, more often, like a  nice lunch, veggies, meat or something, a snack  after 3 or 4 hours , and a small dinner. You won't feel as heavy or tired during the day.  

 Do your work.... after school, I work, then when I come home, I keep working. Cleaning around the house, homework, witting.... This will suck out some energy, which will help you fall asleep easily. And it will also give you a nice feeling, that your day wasn't wasted, this will make you sleep like a baby, and you will wake up refreshed and full of energy for another great day.

  Don't play video games or watch any serious movies an hour before bed, instead you could spend that time, taking off your make up, preparing your things for the morning, maybe reading a bit, perhaps GlidzyGlam ;).

 Avoid arguments with family and friends an hour or two before bed, this is like the thing with games and movies. It would just excite your brain, and it would make it hard for you to fall asleep, and you will wake up tired and frustrated. So do yourself a favor and avoid these who may upset you in the evening.

 Sleep in comfy clothes. Best is no clothes at all. Researches have shown that the less clothing you wear the better sleep you'll get, and another bonus, your body will burn about 200+ calories for the night when it has to regulate its temperature on its own. Or if you don't like sleeping naked, wear baggy clothes for bed.

 Light an aroma- candle two hours before bed. I have this candle..almond blossom, and I LOVE IT!!! It puts you in this amazing state, calm and relaxed, especially if you've had a frustrating day. It's kind of aroma therapy.

 Listen to your favorite songs, sing with the CD player, or PC or whatever. Singing takes the stress level to minimum.

 Don't eat chocolate, drink coffee or energy drinks before bed. No explanation necessary I suppose.


 So these are my tips for how to get to bed at a normal time, and have a great night sleep. In part 2 I will give you some ideas of how to get through the day if you haven't followed these tips, and how to keep looking like a goddess during the day. Let me know what you think of this article and the blog in the comments, even if it's anonymous. 

How to clear blackheads and dirty pores on your nose

 We all know and hate them. Those little dots on the nose, sometimes they are blackheads, or just pores filled with dirt, looking like whiteheads. That would probably be the number one most annoying thing for women.

 So since this blog is all about inexpensive ways to keep yourself beautiful, today i will show you an amazing and very cheap way to get rid of those annoying little troublemakers.

 First of all, never squeeze your nose, that would get the dirt out, but it could brake a  blood vessel, and you don't want that to happen. I have to admit, sometimes I do that too, I don't know why, but it brings me some comfort to see the dirt coming out of my pores then just washing it all away. However, if you do that be very careful, because usually the nose is the most problematic are on the face, and you don't want to cause any infections there.

 So, you might ask what could I use if I can't squeeze my nose. Pore strips? Yes, but I have a few cheaper ways to clean your pores. First one I’ve mentioned before, tooth paste, which works great, but it's not too good on really sensitive skin. If you want to read more on how to use the tooth paste and the effects of it look at the article ''Facials at home''  the last facial.

 The other way you could clean these dirty pores is... with school glue. I know, really weird, but it has an effect, just like the nose strip. But there is something very important, you have to use a glue that is washable and non-toxic. You can use a normal liquid glue, but it would be like the tooth paste, if your skin is sensitive, use a non-toxic, washable glue, I tried the ELMER'S school glue (this is not an advertisement, just my sister has that for school).

 So, it's pretty simple to use it, first wash your face, get it dry and you can use a  small stick or a tissue, or even your finger, I find it easiest to use my finger. And you just apply a thin, shiny layer on your nose. Be careful, if you put too much of it, it won't be able to dry out as it's supposed to and it won't have the effect we're looking for. Then just wait for 10-15 minutes, when it dries out you will feel it, then you just peel it off, like the nose strips.

 If you don't have the money for expensive nose strips, or you just want to use it for something else... this is very useful and cheap alternative. And that's it. I did it and, I was skeptic, but it really works. I hope you liked this little trick, if you try it, please leave  a comment to let me know how it worked for you. 

How to hide pores

 Today I will tell you a  little trick of how to cover your pores with foundation. Usually foundation exposes your pores, but there is a way to cover them with it. Only thing you need is foundation and a sponge, you could also use a brush, but the sponge has a better effect.

 Get the sponge wet and squeeze the water out of course, this will stop it from absorbing too much of the product. Put a few drops of foundation on your hand, take some of it with the sponge and carefully apply the product on your face, neck and chest.

  If you have dark spots under your eyes use some concealer, then a bit of foundation over it to even the colors. If you use concealer to cover up any pimples or spots, apply it after the foundation. It will have a better effect.

 The neck is usually the darkest part of your body, but the chest is exposed (depending on your top), and the light hits it, so you better make sure the face and chest are in the same tone, that doesn't mean you shouldn't put any on your neck though. But the most important thing is, don't overdo your foundation.

 When you put it on your face use round movements, and be gentle, you don't want to make your face red. Then apply a bit of powder, just pat your face, wherever it's shiny and you're done. Your pores are basically invisible and your skin looks pretty and fresh. 

Back to school

  It's that time of the year again. The time when everyone is rushing trough stores to buy everything for the upcoming school year. And for girls, this means big shopping spree, but problem is that there is always something you forget. Before I continue I just want to say, that school should always come first, but that doesn't mean you can't look great while you nail these tests and quizzes.

For many girls beauty and fashion are very important, but most spend their money on stuff that they don't really need. Like tons of different creams and lip glosses.. So I'm going to give you a  list of the beauty products you'll need:

1. Cleanser - You'll need that twice a day, so you better really take your time in choosing one. For oily skin, use gel cleansers, they are the best because they take the oil out  and reduce it's production during the day, plus they are not too strong to cause any redness. For dry skin, use cream ones they will clean your skin and hydrate it too.
2. Two creams. One for the morning and one for the evening. The one you get for the morning should have an SPF factor, and it should be suitable for a base for make up (if you wear any). The night cream should be hydrating, (I use milk and honey cream, it's great). 
3. A good foundation (if you use any). Most girls have a problem finding a suitable color. Best way to do that is to apply a bit on your jaw and go out in the sun light, let it dry for  a few seconds, it's good if it's invisible on your skin.
4.  Eye make-up.  I’m a huge fan of natural beauty in summer, but I like bringing in richer colors in the fall. Jewel and berry colors are fantastic for eye shadow—try the brighter tones in a moisturizing cream shadow on the lid or to define the socket, as well as the smoky shades that look so sexy. Avoid too much pink, as this brings out redness in the eyes and skin.
5. Powder, for finishing touches. Get a color a bit lighter than your foundation, that way you will avoid getting orange after you're done with make-up.
6. Toner. Get a natural alcohol free toner. Rose water is great, and it has a great effect on problematic skin.
7. New brushes. That is very important, because when you use a brush for  a long time it gets dirty. All kinds of bacteria develop and you put that on your face if you don't change them every now and then. I usually buy a new set of brushes in the begginning of every school year.
8. Chapstick. This will be your saver in the winter, and it's great when you don't have time to fix your lipstick. Just take a wet tissue, run it on your lips, and apply the chapstick, your lips will look fresh and soft for a  few hours ahead.
9. A small bag for makeup. And not just make up, you can put all of your small necessities in it: chapstick, eye liner, powder, wet tissues, bobby pins, hair bow an aseptic plaster, a small perfume... You just decide how many things you need, and get a suitable bag. You don't even have to buy one, you could just look around, you surely have a makeup bag that you don't use, and it might be the right size. This is something I strongly advice you to do, it will save you a lot of space in your school bag, and you can even put it in your everyday bag, and it will save time since you won't have to take everything from your bag to find a bobby pin for example.
10. Foot powder, if you're one of these people who just love their trainers, you will need it. You only need to put it in the morning and evening when you take off your shoes, in the shoe of course. I advice you on this because i know how horrible it is when you change for gym and suddenly you feel the scent of someone's stinky feet. 

  

  And that is pretty much it. These are the things you would need to look great trough the year. For more useful tips keep reading my blog. And leave a  comment, your opinion will be very helpful in improving this blog.

Facials at home

  All of us like it, but not all of us can spare the time and money to go to a  salon. Facials are great for your skin, they clean, relax and moisturize your skin. And you feel great afterwards. 

   There are plenty of things you can do at home and get the same effect, and save on money. All you need is a few free hours and some things from your fridge.

   First of all you need to clean your face. Cleanse your skin. Use a mild daily cleanser and lukewarm water to wash away dirt, oil and makeup. You can also make your own spa cleanser by mixing 2 tbsp. milk and a few drops of olive oil. Warm the mixture in your palms, then massage it into your skin using small, circular movements. Rinse with warm water and pat dry with a clean towel.

                

               Brighten:

Things you need:

1.  Papaya
2.   Water 

  This is  a very simple facial, first you slice the Papaya and you clean it from the seed. Then you slice it in a  way that will be comfortable for you to rub it on your face. After you've rubbed it on your entire face and neck (you can use it for any part of your body) let it dry for 15 to 20 minutes. Then wash it off with warm water only, and of course finish with cold water. The enzymes in papaya will exfoliate, repair sun damage, diminish age spots and smooth your skin skin. Your skin will look brighter, with a more polished finish. You can do this once or twice a week.

              

                 Lift and Tone:

Things you need:

1. Yogurt- 2 tbs
2. One  Lemon
3. Water

  Combine the yogurt and the juice from the Lemon, and apply to your cleansed face and neck. Let it dry for 20 to 30 minutes. The mask will tighten, don't worry that's the point of it. If you want to use it as a lifting mask, you can leave it longer, up an hour. After that wash off with water and put on some moisturizing cream. This mask will clean and minimize your pores, it will make your skin smooth and beautiful, it helps fade age-spots, acne scars and even helps keep blemishes and acne in check. It also gets rid of uneven-looking skin tone. You can use it 2-3 times a  week. If you have dry skin I would suggest not to use it, or if you do, use it only once or twice a week, and never forget to put on some cream.

              

                   For Dry Skin:

Things you need:

1.     Honey- 2tbs

2.     Apple cider/Vinegar or lemon juice

3.     Water

  Combine the Honey and one of the 3 mentioned liquids. Apply to clean face and leave it for 20 minutes. After that wash off, switch from warm to cold water, and finish with warm water. This can be used three times a week, it heals, moisturizes and balances the pH of the skin.  Honey is a humectants and natural antibiotic that heals and moisturizes. Apple cider vinegar helps balance the pH of skin and soothes damaged skin.

                  For acne:

Things you need:

1.     Half a lemon

2.     Garlic

3.     Tooth paste

4.     Water

  

  This one is kind of weird, but surprisingly it works. First thing you need to do, is wash your face, then on dry skin, apply some tooth paste, on your nose (that's where usually we have blackheads and huge pores). This will suck out the dirt from your pores, it might burn a  little, but it's totally worth it. Leave it on for 5-10 minutes. If you have really sensitive/dry skin, I will advice to skip this step. After you wash the paste off, wait a minute or two, your skin will be very sensitive after that, but you will see that your pores are pretty much empty, use a  bit of warm water on your face and dry it carefully. Then use the lemon, just rub it on your face and neck, take your time with this step, make sure all the juice of the lemon is sucked in by your skin. Let it dry for a minute or two, then use the garlic, slice the pieces in two and rub it on your face (I usually do it only on the problem areas, where i have scars and redness). Stay like that for 20 minutes, then wash your face with warm water and finish with cold water so your pores close. This facial really sucks out everything from your face, so your skin might start producing more oil. To avoid this apply some cream, that will moisturize your skin and won't let it get more oily. The best time for this facial is at the evening. Make sure you do it about 2 hours before you go to bed, so your skin can absorb the cream and give you the best effect.

 So this are some nice facials you can do at home, they have the same effect as the beauty salon ones, but they are less expensive, and cun to do. For more useful tips and trick keep visiting my blog :) xoxo

A good acne routine

 


Acne is a problem for most of us, and I’m sure that 90% of those who read this have almost lost hope that they will find a solution. Well I’m here to try to help you. I'l give you a few tips on how to deal with acne in a natural and inexpensive way.

   

For me, acne has been a problem for may years, I’ve tried all kinds of medical, cosmetic and experimental ways of getting rid of it. And some things worked for a while, but then it was like my skin got immune to everything. I used to be very depressed about it, and I started using make-up, lots of it. This made it even worse. Not that  the make-up was bad, I simply wasn't taking good care of myself, sometimes I got too lazy to clean it up, and when I woke up in the morning, it looked like I was growing a  second head. Then I started high school, which kind of motivated me to change my life around, and I set some goals for myself. One of them was GET RID OF ACNE!!!

   

Ok so I’m going to start with telling you about the medical stuff. I went to a  dermatologist a few years ago and he prescribed me all these things, which didn't have an effect only made the matter worse. I got these red spots and my ace became worse, another doctor gave me other things which had a  small effect but only for a  while. Then to be honest I gave up. I just started applying layers and layers of make-up hiding it, and even that didn't help much because my skin is pretty oily and, when you mix foundation and oily skin... blah

   So next time I got determined to get rid of this once and for all was in the end of the 7th grade. So I started trying new things, I thought that this time I won't use strong stuff, but I’ll try something more traditional. And I have to say, mother nature is amazing. Let me give you my routine:

1. Wash your face with a cleanser for oily skin. When you pour water on your face before using the cleanser, use warm water. It will open up your pores and let the cleanser do it's magic. When you apply the cleanser, do it with round movements from inside out. When you're finished wash it off with warm water, then finish off with cold water. This will close your pores and reduce the reddens it might get from the washing.
2. Dry your skin with a soft towel by patting your face. Never rub your face with the towel, and change it often, I usually change my towel twice a  week.
3. Apply an alcohol free toner, I use rose water, it's great. I advice you, if you get rose water, look for one made from Bulgarian roses, they are the best. I would tell you a good brand name, but I don't want to come off as a PR...
4. Apply a moisturizing cream. I use baby cream, the ones that prevent redness and bruising(because of the dippers). It does wonders, your skin will be moist but it won't become oily. And another thing, whatever cream you use, make sure it has UVA and UVB filters. That will keep your skin young and beautiful for many years ahead.

And that's it. After you're done with these steps, you can apply your make up. 

   Trough out the day you could use these wipes for sucking out the oiliness, if you have oily skin like mine. And apply a  bit of powder, not too much though. It would make your face look like a wood doll.

    So that's a nice routine for keeping your face nice and clean. And over time that routine will clear not only your acne, but your scaring too. In the following posts, i will give you a few tricks that will help you a lot, and all of them are basically free, and way more effective than all the chemicals in the drug store.