| How to Get Rid of Dry Skin on Your Face Posted: 01 Sep 2019 01:00 AM PDT Dry skin on your face is irritating and uncomfortable. Luckily, there are simple strategies that can help. Changing your facial cleansing routine may reduce dryness in your skin. You can also reduce the amount of moisture you lose by doing things like taking shorter showers and using a humidifier. Adjusting your diet and trying supplements may also help. If all else fails and you are still dealing with dry skin, see your doctor or a dermatologist. [Edit]Adjusting Your Cleansing Routine - Choose a gentle cleanser free from fragrances, alcohol, and dyes. These ingredients may further dry out your skin. Check the label on any facial cleanser you are considering buying to ensure that it does not contain these ingredients. Opt for a cleanser meant for dry skin for best results.[1]
- For example, you can purchase a soap-free cleanser, such as Cetaphil or Aquanil.
- Wash your face twice daily with lukewarm water and a gentle cleanser. Wet your face with cool or lukewarm water by cupping the water in your hands and splashing it onto your face. Work the cleanser into your skin with your fingertips using small circular motions. Then, rinse the soap off of your face by wetting it again.[2]
- Do not scrub your skin with a sponge or washcloth because this will strip extra oils from your skin and dry it out even more.[3]
- Don't use hot water to wash your face as this may dry out your skin even more.
- Pat your face dry with a clean towel. After you finish washing and rinsing your face, get a clean, dry towel and pat your face with it. Do not rub the towel against your skin as this will dry it out more. Gently pat your face all over with the towel to dry it off.[4]
- You can use a regular towel, or try a microfiber towel or T-shirt for an even softer option.
- Select a moisturizer that includes oil or shea butter or other emollients. These ingredients work well for treating dry skin on your face. Look at the label to check for 1 or both of these ingredients. You may also want to choose a cream or ointment moisturizer rather than a lotion. Look for something that is labeled as "intensive" or that is meant for treating dry skin.[5]
- Other ingredients that may help to moisturize dry skin include dimethicone, glycerin, hyaluronic acid, lactic acid, lanolin, mineral oil, petrolatum, and urea. Check the ingredients on moisturizers you consider buying to see if it contains any of these ingredients.
- Apply moisturizer to your face right after cleansing. This is the best time to lock in moisture and get rid of dry skin. Apply enough moisturizer to your skin to fully coat it, and then let the moisturizer sit on your skin until your skin absorbs it. Use your fingertips to smooth the moisturizer all over your face and neck.[6]
- You may only need a pea-sized amount to cover your whole face, so start with that amount and then apply more moisturizer if needed.
- Apply aloe vera gel to your skin for extra moisture. Using pure aloe vera gel on your skin once or twice per day may help to reduce dryness. Use aloe vera gel in place of or in addition to your usual moisturizer after you wash your face. Apply enough aloe to coat your skin and allow it to absorb.[7]
- You can purchase pure aloe vera gel in a drug store or grocery store.
- Make sure that the aloe gel does not contain any other ingredients, such as fragrances, dyes, alcohol, or lidocaine (for numbing a sunburn). These are likely to irritate your dry skin.
- Treat your skin with a weekly mask of manuka honey. Using manuka honey on your skin may help to reduce dry skin on your face.[8] Apply a thin layer of manuka honey to your skin after cleansing it. Then, let the honey sit on your skin for 10 minutes before rinsing it off with lukewarm water. Repeat this once or twice weekly for a deep moisturizing treatment.[9]
- You can buy manuka honey in specialty food stores and online.
- If you cannot find manuka honey, use regular honey instead.
[Edit]Keeping Moisture in Your Skin - Run a humidifier whenever you're home. A humidifier adds moisture back into the air, and this may help to reduce dryness in your skin. Keeping a humidifier running while you're home may help to lock more moisture in your skin and reduce dryness. Try running a humidifier in your bedroom at night to promote a moister environment.[10]
- You can also run your humidifier during the daytime if you'll be home for a few hours. Place it in whatever room you are in and switch it on.
- Limit your showers and baths to no more than 10 minutes. Long showers and baths may be relaxing, but they can make dry skin worse. Time yourself and try to keep your showers and baths between 5 and 10 minutes to reduce their drying effects.[11]
- Avoid sitting directly in front of a heat source to stay warm. If you're cold, put on warm clothing and wrap yourself in a blanket to keep warm. Don't sit directly in front of a fireplace, space heater, or heating duct as this may dry out your skin even more.[12]
- On extra cold nights, try using an electric blanket to stay warm. If you don't have one, toss a blanket into the dryer for 5 to 10 minutes to warm it up and then wrap yourself up in it.
[Edit]Using Diet and Supplements - Drink water whenever you are thirsty. Staying well-hydrated can help to promote healthier skin that is less prone to dryness. Drink a glass of water whenever you feel thirsty and at times when you would normally drink something, such as at mealtimes and after exercising.[13]
- Try keeping a reusable water bottle with you and refilling it throughout the day.
- Avoid alcohol or limit your intake to no more than every other day. Drinking alcohol dries out your skin because alcohol is a diuretic, which means it pulls water from your body. If you suffer from dry skin and you drink alcohol regularly, cutting it out can have a dramatic effect on your skin's appearance. Try to limit yourself to no more than 1 to 2 drinks every other day if you do drink.[14]
- It might take a few weeks before you notice the effects of not drinking on your skin.
- Eat vitamin C-rich foods to promote healthy skin. Vitamin C is a potent nutrient for skin health. If you suffer from dry skin on your face, start eating more vitamin C-rich foods to see if this helps. Some good options include:[15]
- Citrus fruits, such as oranges, grapefruit, lemon, and limes
- Kiwi, mangoes, and papaya
- Strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries
- Cantaloupe and honeydew melon
- Broccoli, cauliflower, and kale
- Potatoes and sweet potatoes
- Red bell peppers
- Try taking a hair, skin and nail vitamin to promote overall skin health. Hair, skin, and nail vitamins may help to promote healthier skin and reduce dryness if you take them over time. Look for a multivitamin that is meant to promote hair, skin, and nail health and take it daily according to the manufacturer's instructions. These supplements usually contain a combination of vitamins A, B, C, and E, but some may also contain omega-3 fatty acids and other ingredients.[16]
- Check with your doctor before you start taking any supplements, especially if you regularly take a prescription medication or over-the-counter drugs or supplements.
[Edit]Seeking Medical Help - Call your doctor if you notice redness, itchiness, cracking, or bleeding. If your skin is red, itchy, cracking, or bleeding, call your doctor to make an appointment as soon as possible. These may be signs that your skin is infected or that it may become infected if left untreated. Your doctor may treat any cracks in your skin with a combination of medication and wet-dressings.[17]
- See a dermatologist for a prescription dry skin cream if it's severe. If your dry skin does not improve no matter what you try, you might need to see a dermatologist for help. They can prescribe a special cream or ointment to help rehydrate your skin and reduce irritation.[18]
- If you have a condition, such as psoriasis, that is contributing to your dry skin, your doctor may also prescribe something to treat that.
- Ask your doctor to check your thyroid. Hypothyroidism, which is when you have an underactive thyroid, can also cause dry skin. This condition requires a diagnosis from a healthcare professional and your doctor will prescribe medication to treat the underactive thyroid if you have it. Other symptoms of hypothyroidism include:[19]
- Fatigue
- Sensitivity to cold
- Weight gain
- Puffy face
- Thinning hair
- Heavy periods
- Depression
- Impaired memory[20]
- You may need to try a few different facial cleansers and products before you find something that works for you. If the first thing you try doesn't help, try something else.
- If your lips are dry, use a moisturizing lip balm, too.
[Edit]References [Edit]Quick Summary |
| How to Dress for a Gala Posted: 31 Aug 2019 05:00 PM PDT Being invited to a gala is exciting and gives you the opportunity to help raise money for a good cause. However, figuring out what to wear can seem like a daunting task, whether it's your first gala or your fiftieth. Dressing for a gala can be easy and fun when you follow the dress code and add your own personal style! [Edit]Choosing Your Outfit (Women) - Wear a LBD if the invitation specifies a semi-formal or cocktail dress code. Dressing for a cocktail party can be confusing, because it's easy to under- or over-dress, but a little black dress is the perfect solution. When in doubt, select a comfortable and stylish party dress that hits just above the knee in plain black for a classic take. If you want to get more creative, you can choose a dress in a seasonal color.[1]
- If you don't want to wear a dress, semi-formal events are great for getting creative while still looking fancy. To switch things up, put on a set of classy but colorful separates or a refined jumpsuit.
- Opt for a full-length ball gown if the invitation says the event is white tie. Choose a glamorous gown in a seasonal color, or opt for an always-fashionable black gown. Make sure the gown touches the floor, which is expected for white tie events. Go to a specialty dress store or search online, and have the gown tailored to fit you. If you're on a budget, consider renting a gown for the event, which can be much cheaper.[2]
- Long gloves are common at white tie affairs, and can complement or match your dress color.
- If you've never bought a gown before, look for a shape that complements your body. Pick a size that fits you the best in most areas, and then get the dress tailored to your body shape for the most flattering results.
- Choose a classy evening dress if the dress code is black tie. Black tie galas are only slightly less formal than white tie events. Evening gowns that touch the floor are acceptable, but you can look for unique gowns in a variety of colors or with embellishments. Shorter dresses can also be appropriate, as long as they're fancy.[3]
- When looking for a dress, check specialty stores, the "formal" section of online retailers, and even some department stores. If possible, try on the dress and have it tailored for the best fit.
- Darker colors are generally more acceptable for a black tie occasion, but you shouldn't feel confined to navy and blue. Feel free to spice it up if you find a gown that speaks to you.
- If you opt for a dress that isn't floor-length, the hem should hit at or just below the knee. If you have any doubts about your dress, don't be afraid to ask the party planner for clarification.
- Think outside the box if the dress code on the invitation is creative black tie. Although it's one of the most vague dress codes, creative black tie will let your imagination run wild. Don a pantsuit, play with wild prints, or amp up your accessories. However, remember that the overall impression should be formal and tasteful.[4]
- If there's a specific theme, like a Valentine's Day gala for charity, try to stick to it within reason. This is your chance to show off your creativity and look uniquely fabulous. For example, you might choose to wear a sparkly red dress, or a dress covered in hearts or flowers. You can accessorize creatively by wearing little cherub wings or carrying a toy bow and arrow!
[Edit]Picking Accessories and Grooming (Women) - Select the perfect pair of heels for the venue. While most galas warrant a pair of stilettos, check the invitation to make sure you'll be able to comfortably walk in the pair that you have in mind. If the venue is outdoors or the flooring is notoriously precarious, opt for a shorter or wider heel for added stability.[5]
- Both open-toe and closed-toe shoes are acceptable, depending on the weather. If you're unsure about what kind of shoes you should wear, ask the party planner to clarify!
- Your shoe color should complement the color of your gown. If you're in doubt, opt for a basic black satin heel that will match most evening gowns.
- Wearing flatter shoes may make it difficult to walk without tripping on a long hem, so be sure to try on your shoes with your dress and walk around a bit.
- If you can't or don't want to wear heels, choose a pair of glamorous flats that complement your gown without drawing too much attention. Look for pairs that have embellishments like jewels or bows, and are made of high-quality materials like patent leather, leatherette, or even suede.
- Choose classic jewelry like pearls, earrings, and bracelets for any gala. Regardless of the dress code, wear tasteful, classic jewelry, like a pair of sparkly earrings or a pearl necklace to draw attention to your face and hair. If your gown doesn't have many embellishments, wear some silver or gold bracelets to add some glamour to the outfit.[6]
- Make sure your jewelry looks valuable, even if it's not. Gold, silver, and pearls are all acceptable, even if they're imitation pieces. If you're looking for sparkle, cubic zirconia is an inexpensive and beautiful alternative to diamonds.
- Remember to balance your jewelry. If you're wearing a very colorful or large statement necklace or bracelet, pair it with smaller earrings or bracelets. Alternatively, you might choose to wear one statement piece and no other jewelry.
- Stick to a small purse with just the essentials. Since you'll be on the move all evening, pack a clutch with lipstick or gloss, face powder, your ID, a small wallet, and your phone. Some clutch purses have a small, delicate shoulder strap that allows you to use your hands throughout the night, as well![7]
- Coordinate the color or fabric of your bag to match your shoes. It will pull your look together and make your choices seem thought-out and purposeful.
- Leave the shoulder bags and totes at home since they tend to be bulky and burdensome.
- Have your hair professionally styled to save time. Your hair is an integral part of your gala look, so it needs to be polished and perfect. A professional stylist will be able to achieve the best style for your gown. If you have a gown with a lot of embellishments on the back or neckline, consider getting an updo to show them off.[8]
- For short hair, make sure it's sleek and polished. Your hairstyle should look purposeful, even if it's shorter cut.
- Do your hair at home for a less expensive option. Devote time to straightening or curling your hair at home with quality products, like a styling balm and strong hold spray. Then, leave your hair down for an ultra-glamorous look, or pin it into an updo for a more sleek appearance. You can even try to do a simple braid, as long as it looks clean and professional.[9]
- Classic styles like the French twist, chignon, and curled bun are easier to pull off at home. Try watching a YouTube tutorial and doing a trial run about a week before the event. If it doesn't work, choose a different style and try it out before the event!
- Wear makeup with accented eyes or lips. Keep your foundation and blush looking natural, and use concealer to cover any blemishes. Focus on your eyes or lips as the accent for your makeup look, but not both. If you choose a dramatic eye look, keep your lips a natural nude color. If you're wearing a deep or bright lipstick, use only mascara and eyeliner to accentuate your eyes.[10]
- For a more natural look, try wearing a light foundation, a few swipes of mascara, and a clear lip gloss. This gives a very subtle but professional look, and allows your clothes to be the focal point of your appearance.
[Edit]Selecting Your Outfit (Men) - Wear a full tuxedo with tails for any event with a white tie dress code. White tie galas require a tailed coat, matching trousers, a wing-collared shirt with studs and cufflinks, white waistcoat, and a white bow tie. For shoes, wear black evening pumps with comfortable black socks in a fabric like silk.[11]
- The dress code for men is pretty strict when it comes to white tie events, but you can still accessorize with items like pocket squares, cufflinks, and studs. Show your creativity and unique style wherever possible.
- Choose a tux without tails for a black tie dress code. Select a tuxedo with a 1 or 2 button dinner jacket, matching trousers, real bow tie, and cummerbund or waistcoat. For shoes, wear black pumps or oxfords to complete the look.[12]
- Although the dress code is black-tie, you can alter the color of the tie to match your date's outfit for an added fashion statement.
- Stick to black or midnight blue for your tuxedo, unless it's otherwise specified on the invitation. In the case of "black tie optional" events, you can choose other colors or unique fabrics, like velvet.
- Put on a classic dark suit if the invitation says semi-formal attire. Although you don't have to wear a tuxedo, you should still look put together. Wear a white shirt with a well-fitted black, navy, or charcoal suit with a dark tie. Finish out the outfit with classic, shiny oxford shoes.[13]
- If you want to add some intrigue to your outfit, wear a shirt that matches the color of your jacket and trousers.
- Try a patterned suit if the invitation says the dress code is creative black tie. For themed events, get creative with your suit fabric by choosing an unconventional color or pattern. Details like embroidery and embellishments can make your out interesting without being too over the top. If you have a date for the event, try to coordinate with their outfit, as well![14]
- You can also stand out with your shoes, the color of your button down shirt, and even your tie.
- When dressing for a themed event, try to stick to a specific color scheme to avoid looking like your outfit is mismatched!
- Have your tuxedo properly fitted before the event. The key to quality menswear for a gala is a good fit. Visit a tailor to have your pants, jacket, and shirt tailored to your body and style. The tailor will make sure your labels, trousers, and overall appearance are exceptional.[15]
- They can also suggest ways to stand out, especially when all of the men are wearing the same general outfit. They might recommend a printed lining for your jacket, unique braiding on the trousers, or an eye-catching pocket square.
[Edit]Grooming and Accessorizing (Men) - Pick the best bow tie for your outfit and face. When it comes to formal events, clip-on bow ties are never acceptable. Look for a sturdy fabric in a color that either complements your tuxedo or your date's outfit. The edges of the bow should align with the outer corners of your eyes.[16]
- If you've never tied a bow tie, now is the time to learn! There are many different styles, but the classic semi-butterfly is the most popular. If you're having trouble, ask the tailor to help you tie the perfect bow.
- Accessorize your look with cufflinks and jewelry. Pick out silver or gold cufflinks with gems or engraving on them. If you have a watch with a metal or leather band, you should wear it to the event. It'll help with staying on time, and it gives a more professional appearance.[17]
- You can also wear jewelry like small chain necklaces or rings, as long as the metals don't clash with each other or look gaudy.
- Make sure you look clean and polished. A few days before the event, get a haircut and tame any facial hair. Good grooming pulls the outfit together and is important for appearing tasteful. On the day of the event, wear your hair slicked back or styled.[18]
- Remember to trim your fingernails and shape your eyebrows, as well. You can get a manicure and an eyebrow wax at a salon or spa.
- When in doubt, ask the host or party planner to clarify the dress code for the event. If possible, get their approval on your outfit in advance.
- If you are on a budget, consider renting a gown or tuxedo instead of buying one.
[Edit]References [Edit]Quick Summary |
| How to Make Toys for Dogs Posted: 31 Aug 2019 09:00 AM PDT Sure, you can go out and buy all kinds of fancy toys for your dog, but why not try your hand at making them yourself? It's incredibly easy to make a wide range of toys that can provide your pup with mental stimulation and exercise—all you need are everyday items like tennis balls and socks. You can even make chilled toy-treats for hot summer days! [Edit]Simple and Inexpensive Toys - Stick a tennis ball into a tube sock. This is about as simple as it gets, but dogs love it! Stuff the tennis ball down into the toe of the sock, then tie off the sock just above the ball.[1]
- Alternatively, you can stuff the ball down to the heel of the sock and tie knots at both ends of the ball.
- Don't use socks that carry your scent, or you may encourage your pup to go rooting through your sock drawer or laundry basket for their next chew toy!
- Cut and braid a kitchen towel into a chew rope. Use scissors to cut 2 slits the length of an old kitchen towel, stopping short of one end—you want to end up with 3 towel strands of similar width. Braid these 3 strands one over the other (like you would hair), then knot the loose ends.[2]
- Try a washcloth for a really small dog, or a bath towel for a very big dog.
- Make a crinkly toy with a sock and a plastic bottle. Use a clean, empty plastic water or soda bottle and discard the lid and plastic ring. Crush the air out by hand, then place the bottle in the sock and tie it off just above the bottle.[3]
- Many dogs go wild for the crinkling sound this toy makes!
- Create a great chew toy with a tennis ball and old rope. Grab an old piece of sturdy rope that's about long. Drill holes into opposite sides of a tennis ball that are just big enough to feed the rope through. Thread the ball to the middle of the rope, then tie knots in the rope to secure the ball in place.[4]
- Instead of drilling into the ball while you're holding it in your hand, secure the ball in a clamp so you can keep your free hand safely away from the drill bit.
- Empty out a stuffed animal and sew it back up. While some dogs like stuffed toys they can squish their teeth into, others prefer floppier toys they can gnaw on and thrash around. Simply cut the stuffed animal open at a seam, pull out the stuffing, and sew it back up—then see what your dog thinks![5]
- Don't use stuffed animals with buttons or other small pieces that could become choking hazards.
[Edit]Mental Stimulation Toys - Stuff treats into a plastic milk jug. Discard the milk jug's cap, plastic ring, and label. Then, pick out a treat your dog likes and that just barely fits through the jug's opening, and stuff up to a dozen inside. Your dog will work overtime to get every last treat out of the jug![6]
- For smaller dogs, a plastic juice bottle will work as well.
- Sew a "kangaroo pouch" onto a favorite stuffed animal. Choose a stuffed animal that your dog really likes, get a separate piece of fabric and cut out a square, and sew 3 sides of the square onto the toy to create a pouch. Make the pouch just big enough to fit your pup's favorite treat inside.[7]
- Your dog will use their mouth, paws, and whatever else they can to work the treat out of the pouch!
- Turn a tennis ball into a treat-dispensing puzzle. Use a serrated knife to cut a slit in the tennis ball along one of its seams. Squeeze the sides of the ball to open the slit like a mouth, then fill the ball with kibble. Then, let your dog figure out how to get the ball to "open its mouth" and dispense the treats![8]
- When cutting the ball, protect your free hand with a thick glove or, better yet, secure the ball in a clamp.
- Hide treats in a muffin tin covered with tennis balls. Grab an old muffin tin with 6 or 12 cups in it. Put a treat in half of the cups, then cover every cup with a tennis ball. Your dog will work to figure out how to uncover the cups, and which cups contain the prize.[9]
- Switch up where you place the treats every time you present this puzzle.
- Make a sweet potato rope toy. Cut a sweet potato into slices, cut a hole in the center of each slice, and bake them at for 5 hours to dehydrate them. Then, thread the dehydrated rings onto an section of rope and knot the rope at each end.[10]
- Your dog will have to work hard to free the rings from the rope, but they make a tasty reward!
- Build a treat tube out of PVC pipe. Cut a section of PVC pipe and drill a series of small holes along its length. Use sandpaper to remove any burrs or shards of PVC. Then, stick treats into the pipe and place PVC end caps over each end of the pipe.[11]
- Your dog will roll, carry, and bash the pipe around until they figure out how to work the cap off the end and release their treats!
[Edit]Frozen Toys for Hot Days - Make dog treat "pupsicles" you can use in a toy. Fill an ice cube tray with a mixture of half water and half chicken or beef broth. Freeze the liquid until it's slushy, then place a bone-shaped dog treat or half of a rawhide chew stick into each cube so they stand upright. Freeze the liquid solid, then pop the treats out and serve them up.[12]
- For big dogs, fill disposable plastic cups with the water-broth mix and add a whole rawhide chew stick.
- You can hand these "pupsicles" out as treats on a hot day, or add them to puzzles to turn them into a toy!
- Put the "pupsicles" in your chosen food puzzle. For example, you can stick several of them in a lid-free milk jug or large plastic juice bottle. Or, slide them into a length of PVC pipe with small holes drilled in the sides and PVC end caps on each end. Either way, your pup will have to work to get their frozen treat![13]
- If it's scorching hot outside, just give them the treat without all the extra work!
- Freeze a knot of socks for the simplest frozen toy option. Ball up one tube sock, then stuff it into the other sock. Tie off the outer sock with a double knot. Soak the sock ball under the faucet, then put it in the freezer until it's rock solid. After that, give it to your dog on a steamy summer day![14]
- While it's tempting to use your old socks for toys like this, it's best to use fabrics that don't carry your scent. You don't want your dog getting used to chewing up your clothes!
[Edit]Warnings - Don't give the water bottle toy to large dogs, especially those who love to chew. They can chew through the sock and water bottle and potentially digest some of the plastic.
[Edit]References [Edit]Quick Summary |
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