| How to Keep Your Lips Moist Posted: 30 Jun 2018 01:00 AM PDT Dry, cracked lips can be unattractive, not to mention painful. Fortunately, keeping your lips healthy and full is as simple as knowing which products to use and ditching a few bad habits. Drinking more water, using hydrating lipsticks and balms, and exfoliating periodically can all help preserve a plump pucker. In the meantime, limit your exposure to dry conditions and avoid licking your lips to keep them from losing moisture as quickly. EditHydrating Your Lips Naturally - Drink more water. One of the best ways to defend against dry, damaged lips is to make sure you're hydrated from the inside out. Aim to get at least 2 liters (about 8 glasses) a day. As an added bonus, loading up on water will also make your lips appear more full.[1]
- Carry a water bottle or thermos with you so you'll have something to sip on all day long.
- Proper hydration isn't just good for your lips—it makes you healthier in almost every conceivable way.[2]
- Decaffeinated coffee, decaffeinated tea, juice, and other beverages can also help you meet your daily hydration goals. Steer clear of caffeinated beverages and drinks that are high in sodium because these will dry out your lips.
- Turn on a humidifier. Humidifiers introduce moisture to the surrounding environment, which can be a major plus if it's as dry inside as it is outside where you live. Just switch your unit on and leave it running for a few hours a day. Chances are, you'll notice an improvement in the condition of your lips in no time.[3]
- A humidifier may run you anywhere from $50-80, but the benefits it can offer can make it worth the price.
- Rub on some all-natural almond oil, coconut oil, or shea butter. Scoop up a small amount of oil on your fingertip and smear it directly onto your lips. Fatty oils make great natural conditioners, as they moisten, soften, and give lips a healthy glisten. For best results, apply a little oil 2-3 times a day.[4]
- Almond oil is hypoallergenic, which means it's safe to use from head to toe on all skin types.[5]
- The high amounts of vitamins A and E found in organic oils have age-fighting properties that may actually make your lips look younger with continued use. To take advantage of higher concentrations, you could even try using pure vitamin E oil.[6]
- Use cucumber to restore vital moisture. Cut a ripe cucumber into thin slices and place one over each lip while you're lying down, or use them to dab your lips. It will only take a few minutes for your lips to absorb the hydrating, nutrient-infused juices, but their effects will last all day.[7]
- Cucumber treatments can make a fast and effective addition to your nightly skincare routine.
- Topical application of the fruit can also help ease the discomfort of chapped or sunburned lips.[8]
EditUsing Protective Products - Look for lip balms that protect against drying. Keep an eye out for products formulated with nourishing additives like shea butter, vitamin E, and coconut and jojoba oil. These ingredients reinforce the natural barrier on your lip skin to block out external drying agents and prevent moisture loss.[9]
- A quality hydrating balm will also leave your lips feeling softer, smoother, and less sensitive to wind and cold.
- Skip lip treatments containing camphor or menthol, which will only aggravate dry skin even more and could sting your lips if they are irritated.[10]
- Pick up an exfoliating lip scrub. Exfoliating removes dead, flaky skin, leaving only the healthiest tissue behind. Get in the habit of exfoliating your lips every few days, or whenever they're in need. This will be especially important late in the year, when cold weather wreaks havoc on healthy lips.[11]
- Exfoliating scrubs are available in most places where beauty and skincare items are sold.
- For a more do-it-yourself approach, try making your own scrub using ingredients like sea salt, brown sugar, honey, and olive or coconut oil.[12]
- Slather on a sunblock for your lips. You may not realize it, but your lips are just as vulnerable to sunburn as the rest of your extremities. Luckily, there are a wide variety of lipsticks and balms with built-in sun protection on the market these days. Be sure to apply your product liberally before heading to the beach or going for an afternoon stroll.[13]
- Reapply your lip-block every few hours as directed. You should find complete instructions for use on the label.
- Sun-screening lip products can offer valuable protection as strong as 15 SPF.
- Apply hydrating products after using matte lipsticks. In order to remain in place for as long as they do, matte lipsticks have to dry out the surface they stick to. To prevent your lips from becoming a desert, it's best stick to hydrating lipsticks whenever possible, or alternate between the two to restore missing moisture between wears.[14]
- Shea butter, vitamin E, coconut and jojoba oil are among the best ingredients for pampering lips that have been dehydrated by matte lipsticks.
- If you just can't bring yourself to leave the house without your matte lipstick, spread a thin coat of conditioner onto your lips before putting it on to provide a defensive buffer.[15]
EditAvoiding Harmful Habits - Stop licking your lips. Wetting your lips with the tip of your tongue may seem to make a difference in the short term, but it's really doing more harm than good. Over time, the digestive enzymes found in your saliva will eat through the protective barrier on sensitive lip skin.[16]
- Keep some hydrating lipstick or balm within arm's reach. You'll be less tempted to lick your lips if you've recently applied a fresh coat.[17]
- Stick to unflavored lip balms because flavored lip balms may cause you to lick your lips.
- Watch out for spicy or acidic foods. There's enough acidity in a plate of hot wings or a glass of orange juice to have a nearly instantaneous drying effect on your lips. If you eat or drink enough, it can cause them to become cracked and sore. Greasy foods are the worst culprits, since they tend to form a residue that can be hard to wipe away.[18]
- Whenever possible, use utensils like straws or a forks, and eat carefully to make sure as little food makes contact with the area around your mouth as possible.[19]
- Lip conditioners made with natural ingredients like shea butter and aloe vera can be useful for soothing irritated lips.
- Breathe through your nose. If you're not already, start inhaling and exhaling through your nose rather than your mouth. The movement of all that air around your lips can dry them out in a hurry. Keeping your mouth shut is also less likely to mess up your lipstick than opening and closing it constantly.[20]
- If you have no choice but to huff and puff while exercising, open your mouth a little wider so that you're not blowing the air over your pursed lips.
- Mouth breathing is a good behavior to curb, as it comes with a host of other negative consequences, including cottonmouth, teeth grinding, and drool-drenched pillows. Yuck![21]
- If you cannot seem to stop mouth-breathing, then make an appointment with an ear, nose, and throat doctor (ENT). You may have a deviated septum.
- Cover up when it's cold out. Winter weather is notoriously tough on lips. If you have no choice but to brave the elements, pack a scarf or high-collared coat that you can pull up over the bottom half of your face. Not only will it keep your lips off-limits, it will also make you stay warm and comfortable.[22]
- It's especially important to bundle up when you're walking into frigid winds or have to be outside for long periods.
- Feel free to apply lip balm as often as you think is necessary. The key to maintaining moist lips is prevention.
- Stash hydrating lip products in a multitude of places, like your bedside table, purse, locker, or the glove compartment of your car, so you'll always have a ready supply on hand.
- If your problem is severely chapped lips, you may need to switch to medicated products containing ceramides. These waxy molecules can help build back up your lips' natural protective barrier.
- Chronic dry lips could be caused by an allergic reaction to chemicals in toothpastes, chewing gum (cinnamon gum can burn your mouth), fragrances, and other beauty and hygiene products. If none of the methods you've tried have worked for you, it may be a good idea to visit a dermatologist.
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| How to Decorate Large Windows Posted: 29 Jun 2018 05:00 PM PDT If you have large windows that you want to decorate, there are lots of different options to choose from that will help enhance your window space. Choose from decorative elements such as regular drapes, valences, or roman shades to decide how much light you'd like to let in through the windows. Next, you can think about how much you want your windows to stand out and what type of fabrics or colors will help you achieve your desired look. EditSelecting a Decorative Element - Treat multiple windows as one by framing them with drapes. To create a grand visual, look at your multiple windows as one large window. Hang the drapes so they run in a horizontal line along the top of the windows—the drapes will fall towards the floor on the far left and far right side of the window section. Use hooks to hold the drapes, or put the drapes on a rod if all of the window frames are even.[1]
- Use a level to ensure the hooks are even before installing them.
- Draw a line or dot with a pencil where you'd like the screw to go into the wall to hold the hooks.
- Install the hooks by holding each one steady and drilling in the screws—it's likely that the hooks will come with their own hardware.
- To make your window look grand and visually appealing, hang a curtain rod above the top of the window.
- Hang sheer curtains from a rod for a delicate and soft effect. Sheer curtains are super easy to install—all you have to do is hang them across a rod and they're ready to go. The sheer quality will allow the room to be lit by sunlight while also creating an opaque view through the curtains. These are great for summertime as they have a light, flowy look and feel.[2]
- Select white sheer curtains to make the room lighter.
- Opt for sheer curtains with a colored tint in them for a more dramatic look.
- You can choose a rod that comes with its own attachments to make installing it against the wall super easy, or you can pick out a simple rod and choose your own hooks.
- Try out a valance to allow light in while adding detail. A valance is a single piece of fabric that hangs from the top of the window. It only covers a small portion of the window. Many valances come with their own mounting hardware and directions since their designs can be very different.[3]
- Imagine drapes that go all the way across your window, except with the bottom four-fifths cut off—this is what a valance looks like.
- Valances come in different patterns and materials, giving you a wide variety to choose from.
- Hang a valance by using a level to make even marks where the brackets should go, following the specific instructions related to your chosen valance to screw the brackets into the wall.
- Valances also come in boxed form (also called a cornice) for a more formal feel. They look like a window box at the top of the window.
- Add a window scarf for elegant draping. A window scarf is whimsical, but doesn't provide privacy. Wrap the window scarf loosely around a rod above your window, similar to how you would twist streamers horizontally for a party. This adds a nice decorative effect, and each end of the scarf can be used to shield a little bit of light at each end of the window.[4]
- Window scarves can be bought at a home goods store or online, or you can make them out of your own material. You could use a long scarf or tapestry, if desired.
- You can create as many or few loops around the rod as you'd like.
- Simply drape the window scarf around the rod in loose coils, letting the ends of the scarf run down the side of each window evenly.
- Use a roman shade for easy-to-use curtains. A roman shade allows you to choose how much light you let in through the window horizontally. If you're trying to decorate multiple windows, you can have a separate roman shade for each window, or you can use one large roman shade for all of the windows combined.[5]
- Roman shades are made from fabric, woven wood, or bamboo. Some have a cord while others are cordless, which is ideal for a seamless look.
- Roman shades are usually lifted up and let down using a string hanging from the top of the shade.
- Install a roman shade by choosing where you'd like it to be mounted, using a level to make even marks where the brackets should go, and screwing the brackets into place using a screwdriver.
- You can pick out roman shades that are already designed, or you can have them custom-made to your specifications.
- Install hooks at the corners of oddly-shaped windows for unique drapery. If your window has odd slants or unique angles, hang the drapes so that they go along the lines as opposed to covering them up. Use simple drapes of a solid color to make the window the main focal point.[6]
- Use hooks to attach the drapes then twist them around each hook so that they stay in place, if desired.
- Drill a hole for each hook using a bit that is the same size as the hook, then screw the hook into the hole.
- If your windows are uniquely- or oddly-shaped, consider getting custom-made window treatments.
- Paint the trim of the windows to draw attention to their shape. Instead of adding curtains or covering up the window, paint the trim of the window with a color of your choosing. Opt for a bold color to make the window stand out, or use a color present in the room to complement your decor.[7]
- Put down strips of painter's tape along the wall on the edges closest to the trim to make sure you don't get paint anywhere you don't want it.
- Use a brush with a smaller width than your trim to ensure you can paint the details, and use at least 2 coats of paint, letting the first coat dry before adding a second.
- Put down a drop cloth beneath the window to make sure you don't get paint on the floor.
EditChoosing a Pattern or Color - Complement outdoor colors by choosing a similar shade for your drapes. If your window shows a view of a forested backyard with lots of trees, you might consider hanging drapes that are a similar green shade as the trees. Choose colors that complement the outdoors, helping to blur the line between inside and outside.[8]
- If your window overlooks a skyline, you could use drapes that are the same color as the sky, or even a shade of the sunset.
- With this look, your windows will seem to disappear as the focus point is the outside view.
- Go with a whimsical print for a lively look. To make your curtains stand out, select a fabric with a creative or abstract design. It could be a fabric with animals on it, symbols, patterns, or another type of loose design.[9]
- For example, if you're trying to choose drapes for your child's bedroom, pick out a fabric with zoo animals, the ABCs, or their favorite book characters on it.
- You can use curtains to easily and inexpensively change the style of any room.
- Choose a ruffled curtain for a feminine look. A ruffled curtain, either of a sheer material or solid fabric, is a great option if you're trying to give your room a more dainty and soft look. Hang the ruffled curtain on a rod, or install nicely-designed hooks on each side of the window to hang them on.[10]
- Use a level to measure where the hooks should go if using them, and install them using a drill and screws designed for the hooks.
- Accent a bold-colored item in the room to create a focal point. If you have an item in the room that's already the focal point, create curtains or drapes of the same color. This will give the room a bold and inviting look and will make choosing a color super easy.[11]
- For example, if there's a large painting in the room of the ocean, consider getting drapes that are the same color as the waves.
- Pick out lively curtains to frame your windows. A bold color will create a focal point for your room if you don't already have one. This works especially well for rooms with mostly neutral-colored items in them, but can be a great contrast for other bold-colored items.[12]
- Go for bold colors such as red, royal blue, pink, green, or bright yellow.
- Opt for soft neutrals when picking out drapes for a light and airy feel. Soft colors will make the room appear lighter and more open. Aim for colors such as white, light gray, or tan to create this effect.[13]
- Select a woven fabric for blinds to create an organic feel. Blinds made out of a woven fabric, such as woven wood, create a natural look while letting in lots of light. Choose an organic material to create blinds that you can easily adjust to let in certain amounts of light.[14]
- You could also use wood and buy or create shutters for your windows.
- Choosing fabrics made of neutral colors will reinforce the organic aesthetic.
- Draw attention to the windows by selecting striped drapes. Choose drapes that have stripes covering them—the stripes could be wide or super thin, whichever size you like best. Choose stripes of a bold color to make them the focal point of the room, or choose a more neutral contrast to allow them to blend in more.[15]
- For a nautical option, pick out wide blue stripes against a white background.
- Choose thin tan and white stripes for a more neutral look.
- Measure your window thoroughly beforehand to ensure you buy the right size drapes, or if you're getting them custom-made.
- Window treatments collect dust and should be regularly cleaned or washed.
- If you want to block out light or insulate your windows, you can do so by layering window treatments. For instance, use both a Roman shade and curtains for added comfort.
- Pull the drapes to one side to choose how much light to let in.
- If your windows are particularly large or have a spectacular view, they may not need any type of curtains or drapes—leave the window as it is to allow the view to speak for itself.
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| How to Deal With Nosy Family Members Asking when You're Starting a Family Posted: 29 Jun 2018 09:00 AM PDT Everyone is asking you when you're going to have a family, and it's starting to get a little annoying. When it's family members asking you this question, it's a little tougher since you may feel like you owe them a response. However, it's up to you and your partner to decide when you want to discuss your family plans. If you're not ready, try deflecting the question or giving an indirect response. In the end, you could also just tell the truth, which will likely put an end to the questions. EditDeflecting the Question - Change the subject when someone brings the topic of you having babies up. Head off the question early on by moving on to a different subject. It may seem abrupt, but if you do it enough times, your family will get the idea that you don't want to talk about having babies.[1]
- For instance, if someone hints about you having a family, you could say, "Did you hear that Aunt Rachel has a new grandchild? She is so adorable!"
- Alternatively, launch into a discussion about celebrity baby bumps. Ask your Aunt Jenny if she really thinks that Jennifer Aniston is pregnant or just gaining weight. Turn the tables with something funny and light to take the focus off of you.
- Move away from the conversation when babies come up. Before your family gets a chance to ask the question, make an excuse to get up and do something else. Take this step as soon as the topic of babies comes up, so you can avoid being asked about the prospect of having a family.[2]
- For instance, you could say, "Excuse me, I need to step outside for a moment."
- Say you'd rather not respond to that question. Sometimes, you need to set kind but gentle boundaries with your family members. Let them know that you would rather not answer that question, and then move on with the conversation.[3]
- You could say, "Thank you for asking, but I'd rather not talk about that right now."
- Alternatively, try, "I know you're just interested in my family, but my partner and I have decided not to talk about that until we make a firm decision about when we're ready to have a family."
- Present a united front with your partner. Plan out ahead of time with your partner what you will say. That way, you won't end up with family members who feel slighted because you told them you wouldn't discuss the situation, while your partner is giving out details to other family members.
- Generally, it's best to err on the side of privacy. That is, maybe one of you wants to discuss your family planning openly with family members outside your relationship, while the other one wants to keep quiet. In that case, it's probably best to yield to the person who wants more privacy.
EditGiving Indirect Answers - Tell the person the question makes you feel uncomfortable. This method helps you get your feelings across, which makes it easier for the other person to understand. By saying the question makes you uncomfortable, you close the door on similar conversations in the future.[4]
- For example, you might say, "I appreciate that you want to know when we'll have new babies in the family. However, that's a personal matter between me and my partner, and frankly, the question makes me a little uncomfortable."
- Pick a vague but socially acceptable answer to give to family members. You don't have to be committal when someone asks you this question. Choose a vague response that you can give each time someone asks so you don't have to think about what to say. Give it enough times, and your family members will back off.
- You might say, "Oh, we'll start a family when we're ready."
- Alternatively, try, "That's a few years down the road for us."
- Answer the question by noting that you already are a family. This method works well if you aren't sure you're going to have kids. It lets the family member know that you see yourself as complete already, and that they should stop asking questions about when you're going to start a family.[5]
- For instance, you can say, "We already see ourselves as a family. We have our jobs and our cats, and we love helping out with our nieces and nephews!"
- Tell your family members that you will let them know when you're ready. Your family members just want to feel included, and most of them just want to see a new baby in the family. By telling them you'll let them know, you're saying you want to include them, but you're just not ready yet.[6]
- For example, you might say, "I know you're excited about having babies in the family. However, we're not quite ready yet. When we decide we're ready to have a family, you'll be the first to know."
EditTelling the Truth - Announce your intentions to your family before gatherings. If you're worried about being cornered at a family event, talk to family members individually beforehand. Explain to them your situation regarding children. Answer any specific questions they may have before you meet up with the whole family.
- Say you're having fertility problems. Sometimes, a direct approach is the best way to get people to stop asking questions. Of course, you should only give this answer if you actually are having fertility problems and you feel comfortable saying that. Often, family members will back off once you establish that you're having trouble.[7]
- For instance, you could say, "Well, actually, we're trying to have a family now, but biological children may not be in our cards. In a year or 2, we may decide to adopt."
- Let the person know circumstances aren't right yet. Whether you don't have room for a family or you don't have the money to have a baby right now, tell your family about the situation in a polite way. That lets them know you will be ready someday, but you're not going to have a baby anytime soon.[8]
- For example, you could say, "I know you're ready for babies in the family, but truthfully, we aren't ready financially to have a child. We don't want to have a child until we can fully support them."
- Let them know you're working on your relationship first. Many couples want to make sure they've created a steady relationship before having kids. You can say that to a family member to let them know it could be a few years.
- For instance, you might say, "You know, we're going to wait a few years before we have kids. We want to make sure our relationship is rock solid before we bring kids into it."
- Be upfront about not having kids. If you plan to never have kids, it's best to upfront about that. It may be a disappointment, but your family will have more time to get over it if you tell them now.[9]
- For example, you could say, "Well, the truth is, we love our family as it is. We don't think we need kids to complete it, so we've decided we aren't having kids."
- Leave the room and regain your composure if the badgering is getting to you.
- Be patient. Mostly, your family members just want to know when they'll get to spoil a cute baby.
- When they ask, a simple way to dodge nosiness is to respond "Soon enough."
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