Skin Nutrition

We can all agree that it is critical to take care of your skin by protecting it from the harmful rays of the sun, cleanse, tone, moisturize and exfoliate but all that effort can count for absolutely nothing, if your skin is not supplied with the nutrition it needs just like any other organ in our body.

So where can we get the nutrients for skin that glowing and healthy?  There are a lot of supplements on the market today, that I’m totally not against.  I am actually a big fan of vitamin E capsules that I use topically and internally, however full nutrients can actually come from the foods we eat!  Here are some of the top recommended foods for beautiful flawless skin.

1. Avocados – These have healthy fats that keep you skin flexible and moisturized, have compounds that protect your skin from sun damage and actually contains vitamin E.
   

2. Walnuts – These nuts are not only delicious but are an excellent source of fatty acids that your body can’t produce for itself containing both omega 3 and omega 6.

   

3. Sunflower Seeds – These wonderful seeds are packed with nutrients such as vitamin E, zinc, and protein.

   

4. Sweet Potatoes – Sweet Potatoes contain the powerful ingredient of Beta Carotene that acts as a sunblock to your skin, prevents dry skin and wrinkles, and actually adds a warm orange color to your skin contributing to a healthier appearance.

   

5. Red and Yellow Bell Peppers – In addition to having beta carotene, these are a rich source of vitamin C that is necessary for creating the protein collagen that keeps skin firm and strong.

   

6. Broccoli -  This nutritious vegetable is full of vitamins such as zinc, vitamin A and vitamin C.

   

7.  Dark Chocolate – I promise you this is not only because I love chocolate. Dark chocolate is filled with all kinds of goodness like high in antioxidants and gives you thicker more hydrated skin!

   

These are just a few I know that there are many others but you get the picture, eating healthy is great for your skin!  Share in the comments below what’s your favorite healthy snack!

Strong, Healthy, Beautiful Hair!

I once heard an elderly gentleman say, a woman’s hair is her beauty.  I pondered on this a while and realized that most people go to great lengths just to make sure that their hair looks presentable.  For different people this can mean different things, for some it may mean getting a haircut, for others, it can mean making sure that their hair is colored but one thing is for sure beautiful hair is healthy hair.  So here are some tips to make sure your hair looks at its best!

Healthy Hair Comes from A Healthy Scalp – At all times keep your scalp free from dandruff or other dry scalp conditions.  Anything that builds up on your scalp can compromise the health of follicles, potentially reducing the diameter of each hair as it grows, or inhibiting growth altogether.  There are lots of over the counter treatments available but if the problem persists seek help from a professional because if neglected this can actually lead to falling hair and balding.

Limit Heat Styling – Heat does cause damage to your hair and I know it’s hard to eliminate the heat styling all together but at least try to limit it.  When you can allow your hair to air dry naturally and ensure that you purchase styling products with an adjustable temperature setting.

Keep Hair Moisturized – As a child, I remember my mom soaking my hair with olive oil at least once a week and to this day I thank her for it cause thankfully I still have thick, healthy hair.  

Cut Off Split Ends – Trim your hair regularly as split ends travel up to the root of your hair and you’ll want to cut it all off and start fresh.  

How do you take care of your hair?  Share in the comments below!

Contouring like a Pro!

Not too long ago I heard someone ask the question, how does your make-up look when you don’t contour?  To which someone promptly responded, Moon Face!  And they ballooned their checks just to make sure everyone understood exactly what they meant!  It was hilarious!! Everyone in the room couldn’t stop laughing but what made so funny is that it was completely true.

Contouring is so much easier than it looks, it’s not only for make-up artists to do.  Everyone who wears make-up should contour a bit to sculpt their face.  Contouring and highlighting actually goes hand in hand.  Contouring pushes features back and highlighting brings features forward. 

In other words contouring and highlighting actually helps you to alter the features of your face in make-up perfection.  You can make you nose look slimmer, give yourself high cheek bones and even hide a double chin with this secret art in make-up.  Check out the video below for an easy step by step tutorial on how to contour like a pro!

 FAQs

Which is better cream or powder contour?

Powder contour is certainly simpler and faster to apply however cream contour lasts longer so it all depends on what’s your make-up goals as they both look great.

Can I contour using a foundation?

Yes, this is certainly a good option.  Contours are sold as a separate product but stick foundations that are two shades darker than your skin tone will work perfectly.

How do I know where to contour on the sides of my face?

A great tip in applying contour on the sides of your face is to draw a straight line from the top of your ear to the corner of your mouth going closer to your mouth for a chiseled look or stopping at your iris for a just a look or warmth to your face.  

Share in the comments below how you do your contour!