The problem with many beauty products is that they are so expensive. After all, we all want to be beautiful, and all of those products are priced accordingly. We’ll buy them because we are willing to spend more on one ounce of beauty product that anyone would be willing to spend on an entire gallon of anti-freeze. This is because looking good is a very important part of society, and if we wish to participate successfully in society, it is important that we look presentable, and as beautiful as we can.

The good news is that we do not always have to spend a lot of money to look good. There are plenty of products that can be found inexpensively, and even more that can be found around the house. These products work very effectively and they will not break the bank. Plus, many of them are all natural. And in a world where all natural cosmetic solutions often cost more than the synthetic, it can be reassuring to provide your own natural solutions. They will help you save money, all while looking good and feeling even better about it.

Of course not everything can be done using household items that you buy anyway. Eye shadow, mascara, lipstick, and other makeup products really need to be bought at the store. But you can save money by purchasing a quad with two colors you like instead of purchasing individual compacts of eye shadow. Additionally, most of the brands sold commonly, like Cover Girl and Maybeline, are in actuality rather inexpensive. While buying very expensive makeup can make a difference, most of the time people will not be able to tell whether you are using a $50 bottle of foundation or a $4 of foundation. And there is no point in spending extra money to impress people who do not even know that they are supposed to be impressed. Really, purchasing from respected brands that are not necessarily high end can be one of the best cosmetic money saving decisions you make.

Other ways to get bargains on beauty products is to go through the mail. There are many mail order or Internet companies that are respectable and that offer discount prices on fragrances, body care, and cosmetics. By searching the Internet or getting a catalogue, it is possible for you to save money on a variety of products. One of these companies is Yves Rocher. The company even offers to accept returns, and it does not test on animals. This is a great alternative to spending money on department store brands.

The other beauty products — the bubble baths, facial masks, and moisturizers — can be found more naturally and for much less. It is even possible to create acne reducers and skin toners using common objects from around the house. These things allow to get the best bargain of all since they cost very little and can almost be considered free because you probably would have bought them anywhere.

Some of the common beauty bargains that you can find in your cupboards include fruits and common items like powdered milk and eggs. Many fruits can be mashed into purees that are very helpful as beauty aids. Strawberries act as an alpha hydroxy and bananas can actually help reduce wrinkles. A special mask made from tomatoes and powdered milk can help you fight acne, and every one knows that avocado makes a great mask, and that cucumber slices can reduce the appearance of dark circles under the eyes. Egg white can act as toners, and the little pieces of skin that cling to egg shells can also be used to fight acne.

For makeup removal, you can use petroleum jelly. Simple massage the jelly in over the area and then take a tissue and remove the makeup. Not only does this common household item cost much less than expensive makeup removers bought at the store, and it is also less expensive than mineral oil or baby oil. Petroleum jelly can also help soften and smooth hands and feet. Even a thin layer of mayonnaise worn for 15 minutes can help smooth out rough skin. No need for those expensive skin softeners. With a little ingenuity, you can save a great deal of money each year on cosmetics.

With plastic surgery becoming more and more popular, it is evident that many women are seeking to recreate their features into an image of something else. Rather than looking for their own beauty and enhancing it, they are looking for a quick fix to enhance their beauty by changing what they have naturally. Luckily, it is just as easy, and much less painful, to enhance the beauty you already have. Everyone has a degree of natural beauty, and this is important to remember as you think about enhancing features that you already possess, rather than creating features that you never really had.

The eyes are generally considered the most beautiful part of the body. They are seen as “windows to the soul,” and few people decline to comment on a pair of striking eyes. Luckily, the eyes are also the easiest features to enhance. It can be done simply or elaborately, but however you do it, the eyes can be made to “pop” and catch attention, drawing others’ gazes from less attractive areas of the body to the eyes.

One way to enhance the eyes is to enhance the eye lashes. Many people simply wear mascara to accomplish this. However, mascara can be messy and annoying. Additionally, it can also spread infection and disease to the eyes. Eyelash extensions can be a desirable alternative to wearing mascara to lengthen and thicken the lashes. Lash extensions are small, individual pieces of synthetic material that are made to look like real lashes. They are as light as real lashes, and they attach directly to the top of the lash, rather than the skin of the eyelid (like false eyelashes). This can enhance the natural beauty of the eyes in a very natural way.

Another way to enhance the eyes is by using eye shadow. It does not follow that the shadow has to be dark and imposing, leaving other people no choice but to notice the eyes. Rather, light eye shadow often looks more attractive and helps the eye look more open and lighter. Eye shadow with a shimmer has become especially popular as it adds a pleasing sheen that attracts attention to the eye without immediately repulsing the attention. Additionally, flesh colored, non-shimmering eye shadow can be used below the eyes to reduce the appearance of dark circles.

Enhancing the lips is another hot topic when it comes to flaunting your good looks. A moist pair of lips (not slimy and wet, mind you) are a pleasure to behold and to listen to. When you wear lipstick, make sure that it is a moisturizing lipstick that also contains sunscreen. The lips do not have the melatonin that is present in the skin to offer protection. Therefore, lips too exposed to the sun easily dry and crack. But one need not wear lipstick to enhance the lips. Even a faint lip gloss can draw attention and give the lips a more naturally beautiful look. Lip liner is a very valuable tool in helping enhance the look of the lips by making them appear thicker and fuller.

Just a touch of light rouge on the cheeks can help draw the eye up the face, resulting in a face that does not look quite so chubby. The key is to not overdo the blush, just adding color so that there is the look of a healthy glow. By carefully following the cheekbone almost to the edge of the hairline, it is possible to accent the cheeks while drawing attention away from a little extra fat that might be present in the face. Pinching the cheeks can also help, and it looks more natural, but this can fade away and be painful and annoying to boot.

Finally, it is possible to enhance one’s natural beauty by careful use of skin care products. There are many creams designed to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and other fine lines, as well as to moisturize and exfoliate. Exfoliation adds a glow to the face, as dead skin cells are sloughed away to reveal young and healthy cells beneath. These skin care products can smooth the surface of the face and allow for a healthier glow. Additionally, face creams made with parelastin help keep the skin supple, and there are creams that help firm the skin to more naturally reduce sagging.

4 Ways to a Better Tan

Most women love the idea of being able to glow with a gorgeous tan without harming their skin with the sun or tanning beds.  That is why sunless tanning lotions are so hot right now.  The problem is that some of them take a miracle to apply evenly and effectively.   Today’s sunless tanners are much easier to get right then the lotions five years ago. Learning how to apply sunless tanning lotion takes practice.  Use these tips and you will be on your way to applying sunless tanning lotion perfectly.

Gradual Tanning

When choosing your sunless tanning lotion, try to find a brand that offers gradual tanning.  If the label says gradual tanning, then the lotion is easy to apply correctly.  These gradual lotions bronze your skin lightly each time you apply them.  They can be used everyday in place of your normal lotions.  Because they only tint your skin, you don’t have to apply them perfectly in order to get natural look results. 

To get the desired look, rub it all over your body and wait for it to dry.  Don’t worry if you think the results will be too light.  You will definitely be able to tell the difference.  If you want a darker tan after the first application, just wait until the next day and repeat the process.  Each application will last about four days, if you shower daily.  For a streak-free tan, this is the way to go for sure.

When to Apply

It is best to apply self tanner on a clean body.  This allows the sunless tanning lotion to soak into your skin nicely.  You should always wait about ten minutes after the application before getting dressed.  If you are worried about ruining clothing, then pick a time you can frolic around nude in your house.  Before bed is also a good time, because you won’t come in contact with anything but the sheets. 

It is best to exfoliate before self-tanning, which you can do in the shower before application.  Simply use a “puff” and scrub your body as usual.  This will keep the sunless tanning lotion’s color from sticking to your dry areas.  Concentrate on knees and elbows.

Water and Your Tan

Do not shower for twelve hours after application.  Do not do the dishes or get wet for twelve hours as well.  Of course you can wash your hands, but be careful about getting too much water of your forearms.  This can cause streaking. 

For a foolproof hand tan, apply the sunless tanning lotion to your body.  Then, to avoid turning your palms orange, wash your hands.  After washing your hands well, squeeze a small amount of sunless tanning lotion on a tissue and rub it on the back of your hands and fingers.  This will allow only the backs of your hands to get the tan. 

Spray Tans

There are several options when it comes to spray tans.  You can get spray tans in a can so that you can apply them yourself, you can go to a salon and have a technician spray you, or you can step into a spray tanning booth for your application.  With tans in a can, you can control the areas and the amount of tanning solution you put on your skin.  Cans of tanning solution are relatively inexpensive and extremely easy to use.  You can use most on all areas of your body, including your face. 

If you want a faux tan that is sure to be evenly applied however, you should hit the salon.  For around $35 you can get a professionally sprayed on tan.  The process may be a little intimidating for some however, as you must either be nude or wearing a paper bikini.  The results however are very realistic.  The same technique is done with the spray tan booths, except there is a machine doing the tanning instead of a live technician.  Booths will cost around $15 for each visit and produce a tan for up to a week.

Getting a sun-kissed look without the sun is probably one of the smartest things women today can do.  Although a tan is the perfect accessory to any outfit, it does not have to be from the sun to be beautiful.  With more options than ever in self-tanning there is no excuse to lay out in the sun anymore!

5 Easy Strategies

Juggling a husband, kids, a home and a job can be a real struggle. More often than not, there isn’t enough time to strike off every item on your to-do list. You’re tired, worn out, run down and it shows, but who has hours to spend primping in front of a mirror? Not you. And this shouldn’t matter. With a few simple tricks, you can go from blah to babe in one hour or less. So treat yourself to your full beauty potential with the following easy strategies.

Start your instant makeover with a look at your skin. A clean, smooth complexion is the base of a glowing face, so assess the condition of your skin. Is it oily, dry or normal? Are there any eruptions or blackheads that should be treated and removed? Use a gentle cleanser and exfoliation pad to remove excess oil and dead skin, and then rinse your skin with cool water. Blot gently and apply your favourite moisturizer, preferably one with built-in sun protection. Be sure not to rub your face as you are applying the moisturizer – particularly around the super-sensitive skin near your eyes, and to smooth body lotion from neck to toes. Many women apply facial moisturizer every day but neglect to care for the rest of their skin, even though it, too, is subject to wear and tear from dryness and environmental pollutants.

Experts agree that a new hair cut is a great way to change your look and boost your mood. But if you’re only looking for a temporary change, consider styling your hair differently. You don’t need a salon to do this! You just need to be adventurous. Is your hair short and unfussy? Add a little gel for a sleek and sophisticated look.  Get out your curlers if you normally wear your hair straight, or your straightening iron if your regular hair style is curly. The demands of everyday living often drive women to simply tying back their hair with little regard to how it works. Take a few minutes to wash, condition, and style your hair to see a dramatic improvement in your appearance and sense of confidence.

The natural look is nice, but applying makeup is an easy way to glam up your look without expending a lot of effort or time. Take advantage of the season’s trend toward pretty mauve lipsticks and dramatic, multi-tone eye shadow. Eyeliner has also made a comeback, so use it to make a bold statement for an evening out on the town. Mascara is an absolute must and takes literally seconds to apply. Also, if you haven’t already done so, take a few minutes to have a professional cosmetician recommend colors and shades that will complement your hair, eyes and skin.

Choose a dynamite outfit and accessorize. Dressing up isn’t just for special occasions. Chances are, if you look sloppy, you feel sloppy, so put on a great pair of jeans, a soft sweater, heeled boots and a pair of earrings before heading to the grocery store or to your son’s soccer game. Going out for dinner? Let your dinner companions ooh and aah when you arrive in a fabulous dress or pantsuit. Even if you consider the choices in your closet a little on the dull side, you can always mix and match to add excitement to your wardrobe. Add a flirty silk scarf or unusual brooch to a conservative outfit for instant visual interest and appeal.

Your most powerful beauty tool is a big, genuine smile enhanced by sparkling, lively eyes. When you’re happy and relaxed, it shows in how you look, feel and behave, so do whatever it takes to allow you to smile. This might mean taking a short nap to catch up on your rest, de-stressing with some time in front of the television with your favorite reality program, pursuing a hobby, exercising, sipping a coffee or hanging out with a friend. Make time for a few ‘you’ moments each day. Having and enjoying this time is just as vital as any other appointment, so make it a point to set aside at least 20 worry-free ‘you time’ minutes each day. You’ll feel better, look better, and your smile will be absolutely gorgeous.

Your face is one of the first things people see so you want it looking its best to make a strong first impression. Unfortunately though, your cheeks can be the source of a number of challenges ranging from acne and freckles to dryness and blush.

Your best weapon in the war for great skin, especially on your face, is a daily beauty regimen of cleansing, toning, moisturizing, and sun protection. Use quality products, and be consistent as your results will reflect your effort.

Cleansing: A healthy face is a clean face free of unwanted bacteria, sweat, dirt and oil. Traditional bar soaps, however, may dry your skin, leaving it itchy and unpleasant. That’s where specialized facial cleansers come in: they are designed to clean your face and remove old make-up and dead skin cells without removing the fat cells that keep skin soft or damaging the protective layers that shield your skin from the elements. Consider using beauty bars, soap for sensitive skin or commercial gentle facial cleaning products, such as cleansing creams that can be gently massaged into your skin. Pay special attention to your chin and nose, which are the most likely areas for blackheads to show up. For extra convenience, you may even want to try the pre-moistened cleaning pads or wipes that have been on the market for a few years.

Before you wash your entire face, you may need to take special measures to remove old make-up (always before bed, ladies). Eye-cleansing lotion and a bit of cotton can help remove mascara and eye shadow. Be gentle when removing eye make up because the skin around your eyes is thin, sensitive and particularly prone to damage.

Toning: A quality toning product will remove any trace of dirt or make up that might have escaped your cleanser. It will also help tighten pores to keep your skin looking great. Be sure to work your toner into the forehead and cheeks using a small wool pad, as well as into any crevices or wrinkles around the nose and chin. If you have the budget, try a professional mud mask periodically.

Moisture matters: There are so many moisturizers available that you could use a different one each day of the year without repeating. Fun, maybe, but you’re probably better off choosing a single brand and sticking it to it as long as it works well for you.

The most basic functions of a moisturizer are to seal in your skin’s natural moisture and to protect your skin from the outside elements and environmental pollutants that could otherwise irritate your face. Manufacturers and marketers of moisturizers, however, often overlook those goals in their haste to claim the latest miracles that their product can initiate. Some of the claims are quite fantastic – and are just that fantasy-based (taking ten years off your face after one week of use, for example). If you really want a miracle anti-aging product, use a moisturizer with sunscreen. Otherwise, almost any moisturizer will do what it is meant to do: trap moisture and protect your skin.

Sun protection – it’s absolutely vital: Nothing will age your face more quickly than unprotected exposure to the sun. If you want to have healthy, young-looking skin for decades, it is important to wear sun protection every single day, regardless of the season. Just because you can’t feel the sun’s heat in the middle of winter does not mean the UV-rays are not reaching your skin.

Sun protection with SPF 15 is considered the minimum acceptable daily sun protection. Your lips must also be protected, so ensure that once you’ve slathered your cheeks with sun block, that you do your lips as well (try lip balm with built-in sun protection for an easy fix). Be sure to reapply your sun protection product if you intend to spend a great deal of time outside or if you will be in the water.

Add a little sass to your look: After your cheeks and the rest of your face are clean and healthy, it’s time to dress them up. Add a little sass by applying blush. When you have it in the right place, blush should never be lower than your nose or any closer to it than the centre of your eye’s iris.

Using a large brush, apply blush from the apple of your cheeks upward toward your eye and then blend it with the edges of a dry make up sponge.

Don’t be afraid to show your cheeky side – feel free to use different shades of blush; lighter in spring and summer and darker in fall and winter. Keep in mind though, that if you have oily skin, the color of your blush may change as the day wears on.

As the base for all the make-up you apply to your face, foundation can play a huge part in whether your look becomes a success or a flop.  There are two major decisions to be made when it comes to selecting the right foundation for you – color and consistency.  The first is imperative because the tone of the foundation you choose must blend well with the natural tone of your skin.  It is important that the line where you have stopped applying the foundation is not evident.  By matching the foundation to your skin tone as closely as possible you are able to avoid any color conflicts.  Selecting a foundation tone that most closely matches your skin tone will also help to enhance your own natural beauty.

The second choice to be made is perhaps a little more difficult – whether to choose a powder foundation or a liquid foundation.  For some the choice may seem simple.  Many people who have been using foundation for years have found one that they stand by and would never dream of switching.  However, for those who are new to the world of make-up or for those who are not satisfied with their current foundation, the choice between a liquid or powder foundation may be more difficult.

If a number of women were polled to find out whether they prefer liquid or powder foundations, it may become evident that many women seem to opt for liquid foundation.  Many people feel that liquid foundation is the quickest and easiest to apply which makes it a more practical choice for women who use the product on a daily basis.  Liquid foundation tends to blend with your natural skin better than powder foundation and also prevents your face from having a glossy, shiny appearance.  For those who seek a more natural appearance from their make-up, they may find that liquid foundation best suit their needs. 

Powder foundations may not give quite as natural a look as liquid foundations, but they are equally as easy to apply.  In fact, since powder foundation does not take as long to blend as liquid foundation, many find that the application of powder foundation takes less time than that of liquid foundation.  Powder foundations can be a perfect choice for people with excessively oily skin.  The powder foundation can help to dry out skin and can also be handy on days when a lot of perspiration may occur.  The dry, powdery foundation keeps skin dry and cool.  Some foundation-wearers also report that powder foundation gives a lighter feel than liquid foundation.  This means that after application you are less likely to feel as if you are wearing foundation at all.  In addition to providing a light and airy feel, another benefit of powder foundation is that it blends well with sunscreen.  For women who find themselves outside in the sun often, powder foundation may be a smart choice.

The choice between powder and liquid foundations does not stop there.  Many make-up companies have recently developed liquid-to-powder foundations in an attempt to blend the benefits of both liquid foundation and powder foundation into one product.  Like powder foundations, liquid-to-powder foundations tend to feel light when applied to the skin.  In addition, liquid-to-powder foundations also provide long lasting wear.  However, this type of foundation can clash with certain types of skin.  Although liquid-to-powder foundation works extremely well on oily skin, it can prove to be a bad choice for people who have dry skin, as it can leave dry skin looking patchy.

The best way to decide on the most appropriate foundation type for you is to get as much information as possible and try out all the options.  Visiting a make-up manufacturer can help you decide on a foundation.  Talking with either a make-up artist or even a dermatologist can help you make up your mind as well.  A dermatologist can also provide an intellectual view on what type of foundation is the healthiest choice for your skin.  If you have had skin problems in the past you may find it helpful to consult with a professional such as a dermatologist. Whatever way you choose to pursue finding the best foundation for you, once you have found the right choice you will likely be satisfied with the result.

Doing almost anything is easier if you have the right equipment. Applying makeup is certainly no different. It is worth your while to invest in quality makeup tools, and it is equally important to take care of those tools by washing them regularly. The proper, well cared for tools will make applying makeup much more fun and much easier. To that end, there are ten tools you must have.

First of all, a good makeup sponge is a necessity. Sure, applying foundation with your fingers may be easier. However, if you use a sponge to dab on foundation you will get much better coverage. The best makeup sponges should be triangle in shape so as to reach the sides of your nose and corners of your eyes. In addition, a good sponge may be used to wipe away excess blusher and flaky eye makeup.

The second must is a powder puff. Your powder puff is used to apply loose powder over your foundation, and is also valuable for makeup touch ups during the day. Use to brush and press making sure not to drag the powder onto your skin for an even result. If you wish for a lighter look, tap out excess powder onto the back of your hand before application.

Thirdly, get a good powder brush. First and foremost, it is a tool to lightly apply bronzing powder. A thick powder brush will make it easier to apply powder along your temples, neck and cheekbones. Always start with a small amount of powder and add more if necessary. The powder brush is also useful in applying blusher for a look that is a little more natural and a little less defined.

Your makeup tool set will also need to include an eye liner brush. You can use your eye liner brush to convert powdery eye shadow to eyeliner. Just apply the eye shadow with a damp eye liner brush. The eye liner brush can also be used for liquid liner. The narrow brush allows you to get right into the base of your lashes with the color.

Make sure you have a sponge applicator as well. This applicator is for the application of eye shadow to the eyelid. Pearly eye shadows should especially be applied with a sponge applicator so as to prevent the pigments from flaking onto your skin below your eyes. Start by applying on the outer corner of the eye then blend the eye shadow with your shading brush.

You will need a shading brush as well. You can create a neat and natural effect by using your shading brush to blend eye shadow. Trace your brow bone and work the eye shadow in from the outer corner of your eye toward the eyelid crease.

The seventh tool necessary for easier makeup application is an eyebrow brush. Use your eyebrow brush for the application of powder eye shadow to your eyebrows. An angled eyebrow brush will allow you to give yourself a softer finish than an eyebrow pencil. Be sure to apply the eye shadow though, keeping to the line of your eyebrow. Use small gentle strokes. You can also use your eyebrow brush to soften a line you create with an eyebrow pencil.

Eighth, get yourself a short-bristled makeup brush. Use it to apply eye shadow to the lower lid. The narrow brush of a short-bristled makeup brush will reach into the base of the lashes, which emphasizes the shape of the eye to its best advantage. Work from the outer corner of your eye and blend to the center for best results.

A lip brush will be valuable in helping your lipstick last longer. Apply the lipstick with your lip brush below the lip line and blend toward the center of your lip. When using a brush in this manner you can apply the exact amount you desire, and give yourself a more precise look in the process.

Last, but not least, make sure you have a concealer brush. This slightly flat brush can be used to help hide circles under your eyes. You can also use it to hide patches around the nose or any other small flaws with a neat and natural look. Make sure your concealer brush has fairly firm bristles. Soft bristles may cause an uneven finish.

By having the right tools, you can improve your makeup application both in look and efficiency. Always spend the extra dollar to get better equipment. Because, in the end, you will be glad you did.

5 Ways to Bigger Eyes

They say that eyes are the window to the soul. Some women, however, are just not blessed with big picture windows. Small eyes can be a problem if you want your eyes to stand out, but there are ways to solve the problem. The proper makeup techniques can help you make those small peepers pop.

The first place you will want to look in order to create bigger, bolder, and more expressive eyes is to your eyeliner. Eyeliner can be the cure to your small eye blues, but only if you use the correct techniques. First of all, you will want to line the entire top lash line and then extend that line slightly at the corners of your eye. If you like, you can also line the bottoms of your eyes, but make sure you concentrate color only on the outside third of the eye and extend is just slightly past the edge. Don’t be too dramatic, but just a slight line beyond the outside edge will do the trick. Keep in mind that a soft and smoky look will open your eyes up more than thin hard lines of liner will. Use dark and neutral colors with just a little hint of black for lining, since bright shades are what will make your eyes look even smaller.

The other place to concentrate your eye enlargement efforts would be on your lashes. Eyelashes are a great eye opener. Before you ever apply mascara, you will want to curl your lashes three times: once at the base, another half way up, and a third time at the tip. This will help to create a gentle, rounded curl of your eyelash. Then, as you apply your mascara, take care to fan out your lashes as you go. Do so by brushing the inner third of your lashes toward your nose. Pull the middle third straight out. Then, take the outer third of your lashes and brush them toward your temples. By exaggerating your eyelashes in this manner, you will be able to draw attention to your eyes and help them to stand out. The more they stand out, the bigger they will appear to be.

Thirdly, look to your eye shadow. Use caution when doing so, however. Though it is a commonly held belief, dramatic eye shadow will not make your eyes stand out. The truth of the matter is, it will do just the opposite. Too much dramatic eye shadow will cause your eyes to shrink by shading them back into your face. If you do have small eyes, you will want to keep eye shadow really simple. Use only light-colored shadows first of all. Secondly, never wear more than two shades at one time. Remember, simplicity will be your friend here. Brush a light, subtle base color form your lashes to your brow. Next, use a slightly darker shade to create just a subtle definition in your eyelid’s crease. By keeping your shadow simple and subtle, you can enhance your eyes and avoid hiding them on your face.

A fourth way to enhance your eyes is to work on the area around them. For instance, dark circles will make your eyes look even smaller than they are. If you have deep circles around your eyes, they can even make your eyes look sunken. To fix the problem, use a concealer that is just slightly lighter in the dark circle areas. By simply ridding yourself of the circles, you will be able to enhance your eyes.

Lastly, think about the shape of your eyebrows when trying to enhance your eyes. Your eyes will seem smaller and closer together if you have brows that are too close together or heavy. To help spread out your eyes and open them, tweeze your eyebrows further out than you might normally. If possible, it is best to get your eyebrows about an eye length apart if you can.

Large eyes may be a blessing, but small eyes are not a problem. By simply understanding where to concentrate your efforts, you make those small eyes pop and look great. Practice your makeup techniques and taking care of the skin around your eyes and you will find that opening and enlarging your eyes is easy and even a little bit fun.

5 Ways to Brighten Your Smile

Most people admit that they are not completely comfortable with their smile.  Some people will say it is because they hate the placement of their teeth, while others will blame it on the color of their teeth.  Almost everyone would like their teeth to be a bit straighter and a bit whiter.  Natural looking teeth are very attractive however, especially when they are healthy and bright.  You can have a gorgeous smile without braces or professional whitening treatment.  Just use these tips to help you get a better smile you feel comfortable sharing with the world.

Hygiene

It is not a lie that proper hygiene can make or break your smile.  To have the best looking smile you possibly can, be sure to see your dentist at least twice a year.  Having two cleanings a year is a great way to keep your teeth gleaming.  At your cleanings the technician can also help create a dental record for you and schedule any work that needs to be done.  Get your cavities taken care of right away!  The longer you let them go, the better the chance is that the decay will spread to other teeth in the area.  Decay is not attractive and can make your smile look less than fabulous. 

When you are not at the dentist’s office, you need to care for your teeth yourself.  This means that you should brush your teeth at least two times a day.  Make sure you brush them for two minutes at a time as well; one minute for the upper teeth and one minute for the lower teeth.  Floss daily to help prevent decay. 

What You Drink

A gorgeous smile requires more than just proper dental hygiene.  To maintain bright teeth you should take a look at your diet.  Although most people know calcium is good for your bones, it is also important when it comes to your teeth.  Milk is great for ensuring your teeth will be bright and healthy.  Milk is a great choice of drink for a gorgeous smile, but some drinks can do more harm than good. 

Dark cola, coffee, and tea can change the shade of your teeth.  All of these dark drinks can stain your enamel, leaving your smile dingy instead of bright.  You should steer clear of these beverages in large amounts and stick with water or light colored drinks.  If you do indulge in a dark drink, try to brush your teeth immediately after consuming it.  This will help stop the cycle. 

Makeup

For females, the shade of lipstick you wear can determine how bright your smile and teeth look.  Women who wear lipsticks with orange tones in them will automatically seem to have yellow toned teeth.  The orange tones bring out the yellow tones in your teeth, even if your teeth are healthy and bright.  For the brightest looking teeth, consider lipsticks with pink or purple undertones.  These colors help your teeth look whiter and will give your smile a boost.  Wearing no lipstick at all can make your teeth look dingy as well, so be sure to at least smooth on some lip gloss before going out.

Whiteners

Many dentists will advise their patients to try over-the-counter whiteners.  You can find agents to whiten your teeth in gel or cream forms.  You can also find products as teeth strips or mouthpieces.  All of these products will whiten your teeth safely over time.  You must be consistent however and use them as directed.  Do not use them more than directed however, or you may put yourself at a health risk.  These whiteners are inexpensive and work well.  You can also use toothpaste with whitener in it daily for an overall brighter smile.

Be Yourself

No matter if your teeth are a little crooked or as straight as an arrow, to have a gorgeous smile, you must be comfortable with yourself.  Wear your smile proudly.  It is a part of you and people will love your smile more if you love it yourself.   The way that you smile says a lot about you as a person.  Those that smile with wide grins are usually comfortable with themselves.  Those that purse their lips usually have something to hide.  Decide that you are going to be happy with your smile and others will notice an improvement as well.

Mascara comes in two main varieties: regular and waterproof. Each of these has its own benefits. Regular mascara is easier to remove, and it can be less irritating to the eyes. Waterproof mascara, on the other hand, is advantageous because it allows you to look great at the beach or at a pool party. It stays on much longer, and it is resistant to smearing and streaking, even when tears are shed. If you plan to be working out or being near water, waterproof mascara can be a great choice.

But, just like anything close to the eye, it is important to use mascara with caution. Carefully apply it, taking care to avoid getting it in your eyes. You should never apply mascara while in a moving vehicle, whether it is a train or a car, and you definitely should not attempt its application while you are driving. Suddenly stops, turns, or jolts can result in serious eye injury. There are also health concerns when using mascara. You should never use someone else’s mascara. The germs that others have and live with are different from the ones that your body is used to. The eyes are very sensitive and can easily be infected by foreign organisms. Most mascara is only good for use for about three months. After that it tends to be contaminated and dry. Try to buy a new tube every three months, and avoid moistening the mascara with your saliva or with tap water. Again, this can cause eye infection.

Using mascara properly as a member of your beauty repertoire can help you feel better about yourself and easily enhance your most attractive feature: you eyes. The fact that it can be used along to affect a significant change in your look is enough to secure mascara as the “basic black dress” of cosmetics.