Photo by Shiny Diamond from Pexels Brushing and flossing are essential components of a healthy dental practice. However, there are other things you can do to help keep your teeth and gums healthy, which will improve your general health.

1. BRUSH YOUR TEETH TWICE PER DAY FOR TWO MINUTES

Regular care is the first step in keeping your teeth clean and healthy. Brushing for two minutes twice a day, as recommended by the 2x2 rule, will assist to keep plaque at bay. Patients with children should teach this notion as early as possible and find methods to make it enjoyable. You may play a music while they clean their teeth, or set a timer for two minutes. Spend 30 seconds on each quadrant of your mouth to make cleaning every tooth simpler (upper right side, upper left side, lower right side, lower left side). It is essential to use the correct procedures to ensure that the teeth are cleaned properly and that the soft tissue around them is not damaged. Angle the brush head towards the gums in gentle circular strokes. Clean all surfaces, as well as the gum line, on both the front and back of your teeth. Some people feel that using an electric toothbrush is beneficial as well.

2. FLOSS EVERY DAY

It is important to floss every night before brushing to eliminate everything that your toothbrush cannot remove. Many patients confess to neglecting this step, although it is an essential element of maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Small particles of food and other deposits missed by your toothbrush might gradually grow into decay if you merely brush and opt not to floss. To prevent this, make flossing a two-minute part of your daily regimen. When you first start flossing, it may sting your delicate gums. This is normal and will subside after a few days of flossing. When flossing, be sure to move it up and down the whole tooth. Tight gaps are one of the most crucial locations to floss since your toothbrush cannot reach these regions.

3. REPLACE YOUR TOOTHBRUSH AS IT SHINES

As a general guideline, replacing it every 3 to 6 months should maintain it in good enough form to thoroughly clean your teeth. Damaged or frayed toothbrushes cannot clean the surface of your teeth properly and might cause gum injury. Replacing your toothbrush on a regular basis also helps to keep it clean. Always clean your toothbrush well before storing it to allow it to dry. If you've been ill, be sure to change your toothbrush to avoid reintroducing germs into your mouth.

4. GO TO THE DENTIST EVERY SIX MONTHS

If you have frequent dental checkups, your dentist will be able to prevent problems from occurring, or at the very least detect them early. Regular visits also enable your teeth to have a complete professional cleaning twice a year, eradicating any plaque and tartar accumulation and promoting the health of your teeth and gums.

5. KEEP A HEALTHY DIET

Avoiding sweetened foods (such as soda, sports drinks, and candy) and eating calcium-rich meals can assist to promote strong and healthy teeth. As an added bonus, your body will thank you! Leafy greens, almonds, yogurt, and cheese are among foods that might help strengthen your teeth. Speak with your dentist about foods that will help keep your teeth healthy for years to come.

6. MAKE USE OF DENTAL HYGIENE PRODUCTS

Brushing and flossing are important for preventative dental health, but you can also assist maintain your teeth in good shape by including supplementary aids into your regimen. Mouthwash, oral irrigators, interdental cleaners, and tongue cleansers are examples of these goods. These tools may assist maintain excellent oral health and should be used in addition to (rather than in place of) regular brushing and flossing.

7. STAY HYDRATE DURING THE DAY

Not only is enough hydration beneficial to your general health, but it also aids in the maintenance of a healthy saliva flow. Saliva promotes dental health by transporting food particles through your mouth, preventing the majority of them from being lodged in your teeth, where germs may thrive. It also keeps your mouth moist and comfy.

8. DO NOT SMOKE

Smoking causes both cosmetic problems, such as tooth discoloration, and serious health problems, such as gum (periodontal) disease, which may lead to tooth loss, and oral cancer, among other things. Quitting smoking is one of the finest things you can do for your oral and general health.

9. THINK ABOUT DENTAL SEALANTS

Dental sealant plugs the depressions and grooves (fissures) in your molars and premolars, preventing cavities and plaque buildup. Sealants are beneficial to most individuals, but children and teenagers are ideal candidates since they do not brush as effectively as adults, resulting in a greater risk of cavities.

10. EXAMINE THE INSIDE OF YOUR MOUTH AT HOME ON A REGULAR BASIS

While frequent dental examinations are an effective preventative step, problems may arise in the months between appointments. To avoid significant problems, do a fast inspection of the interior of your mouth as part of your regular routine. Examine your teeth and gums for any changes or unusualities. Make sure to discuss this information with your dentist at your next visit, or phone the office if you see anything problematic. Regular self-examinations are helpful to your health.

Photo by Moose Photos from Pexels Nail polish remover removes polish swiftly and efficiently, but what else may it be removing in the process? There are a few other procedures that will work if you want to clean your nails of old varnish without using a standard nail polish remover. Acetone, which may be very destructive to nails, is one of the key chemicals in what is often referred to as "classic" remover. "Acetone is very drying and abrasive," explains Brittney Boyce, famous nail artist and NAILSOFLA creator. "However, [the removers] work really swiftly." Non-acetone removers are friendlier on the nails, although they take a bit longer to work. Soak your nails in warm water before beginning any of the removal procedures listed below. Water will enlarge your nail bed, according to Christine Koehler, creator and CEO of Flora 1761. This will assist to remove the polish and prepare your nails for one of the other removal treatments.

Alcohol for Rubbing

Boyce recommends using rubbing alcohol or hand sanitizer to remove polish without using an acetate remover. "Apply it on a cotton ball or pad and lay it on your nail," Boyce recommends. "Allow it to settle for approximately 10 seconds before gently rubbing it back and forth. Your nail paint should be easy to remove." Furthermore, if you have an alcohol-based perfume, Boyce says that this may work in a hurry but will take more product than if you just used rubbing alcohol. Remember that the aroma may be overbearing, so it shouldn't be your first pick.

Orange Juice And Vinegar

Dear Sundays creator and CEO Amy Ling Lin recommends combining your favorite fruit juice with white vinegar to make a natural solution for removing nail paint. "Mix together an equal quantity of white vinegar and natural orange juice," she advises. "Dip a cotton ball or pad into the mixture and rub it on your fingernails for approximately 10 seconds, or until the nail paint softens. Pull the cotton pad down to remove the polish."

Lemon

According to Ling Lin, simple lemon may also remove nail paint. Allow a slice of lemon or lemon juice to remain on your nails until your lacquer softens before wiping it off.

Hairspray

"The idea that hairspray removes nail polish is real," Boyce explains. "However, it must be aerosol hairspray. Saturate a cotton ball or cotton pad with hair spray before wrapping it around your nail." Boyce adds that this strategy is especially handy if you have a spill. The hairspray will remove the polish from the carpet or cloth without causing discoloration.

Removers Made from Soy

Soy is becoming a popular component in the manufacture of non-acetate nail polish removers. According to Ling Lin, the basis of soy-based removers, as well as the other offered remedies, is to soften the nail polish. She explains that acetone is a solvent that dissolves polish. Soy-based removers, such as the one produced by Dear Sundays ($22.40, anthropologie.com), are less effective but softer. After using soy-based remover, you may need to wait up to 45 seconds before scrubbing your nails with a cotton pad.

After-Removal Care

After you've removed your polish using your preferred technique, follow up with some nail care. "Because rubbing alcohol and hand sanitizer may be drying to the skin and nail, apply cuticle oil to re-moisturize your nail, cuticles, and surrounding skin," Boyce advises. On the other hand, nail care does not always need the use of expensive products. "You should absolutely water as much as possible to maintain your nails healthy," advises Koehler. "A healthy diet is usually beneficial for strong nails, but hydration is crucial. Drinking plenty of water and then putting hydration into your nails particularly."

Photo by Element5 Digital from Pexels It's normal to be concerned about hair loss when you see additional hair in your brush or circling the shower drain. However, shedding—even a lot of it—is common and occurs to everyone. "Light shedding is natural and part of the hair's life cycle," says Amy McMichael, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and the campaign's spokeswoman. "When you wash or brush your hair, you may see this sort of hair shedding." Serious hair loss, on the other hand, occurs when more hairs fall out than grow in, according to Dr. McMichael, an expert in hair and scalp problems. Stress, illness, tight ponytails and other traction-causing hairstyles, nutritional deficiencies, autoimmune conditions, thyroid issues, and other medical conditions can all contribute to this, according to Dhaval Bhanusali, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Skin Medicinals and Hairstim Labs. But how can you distinguish between regular shedding and severe hair loss? While all specialists agree that you should consult with your dermatologist, there are a few points to keep in mind to help you determine where you lie on the hair loss spectrum. The first step is to determine your typical hair loss rate, and there are a few locations to seek for this information.

Hair Loss in General

According to Dr. McMichael, the typical number of strands you can anticipate to lose each day is determined on the thickness and length of your hair. However, if you're searching for a range, she says it's usual to lose 50 to 100 hairs every day. According to World Trichology Society board-certified trichologist David Kingsley, FWTS, there is a variability in this hard-and-firm quantity according to the duration of each person's hair development phase. As a result, he advises against getting too caught up in the numbers: Hair loss in this so-called ordinary range might still be deemed excessive if it is unusual for you. "For example, if you count your hair over a few weeks and observe that roughly 90 hairs fall out on average, you could believe that this is OK since it falls well within the 'normal' range," he continues. "If you were only losing 45 hairs per day [at one time], 90 is more than double your typical rate. This might indicate that you are experiencing significant hair loss." What is the takeaway? Compare your own hair loss to your own history, not someone else's, advises Kingsley.

What's in Your Brush?

There are a few times when we notice the most hair losing, the first being when we brush our hair. According to Kingsley, the more often you brush (and wash) your hair, the less strands you should see come out each time. So, if you lose 45 strands a day on average but brush every day, you should observe a lesser, consistent number in the bristles; the majority of normal shedding occurs in the shower. If you brush your hair just a few times a week, you should anticipate an increase in hair losing since strands collect from not being combed every day. In the end, how much you see in your brush is determined by your everyday behaviors.

In the Bathtub

The second area we observe hair losing is after shampooing in the shower. What constitutes a typical quantity is determined on the amount of hair you have to begin with. According to Dr. McMichael, people with shorter and thinner hair shed less than those with thick, long hair. The amount of hair you lose after washing it varies. The less you shampoo, the more hair you'll shed when you do, according to Kingsley, who claims that 75 to 80% of the hair you lose throughout the day is washed away when you shower. Dr. McMichael believes that recording a pattern of hair loss that deviates from your baseline, rather than a numerical quantity, is a stronger sign of a problem.

In Your Hands

Again, this is based on the individual. According to Dr. McMichael, it's normal for a person to lose five to eight strands of hair while running their hands through their hair—but there are other elements to consider, such as hair type and texture, products, and stress levels. "Everyone is different," she explains. The usual quantity of hair you lose each day should not vary quickly, and it's critical to distinguish between brushing your hands through your hair and yanking on your strands, according to Kingsley. The latter does not precisely indicate whether your hair loss is typical or cause for concern, and Kingsley warns against using it as a barometer because of its addictive nature. "If a person pulls on his or her hair and does not see any hair the first time," he explains, "he or she will repeat the activity four or five times until hair falls out." "It's almost as though people want constant verification that their hair is thinning."

When Should You See a Doctor?

Bald patches and patchiness, according to Dr. McMichael, are evident signals that your hair loss or shedding is abnormal; losing huge clumps of hair and having scalp symptoms such as irritation and discomfort may also be reason for worry. Remember that hair loss is not confined to your scalp: same symptoms may also apply to your brows, lashes, and face—or anyplace else on your body that typically has hair. According to Kingsley, excessive hair losing that lasts more than 2 to 4 weeks warrants medical care. And, if your ponytail has become thinner or you can wrap a band around it more times than before (provided the band is not stretched out), get treatment—this might be another indicator of irregular hair loss. Whatever you do, all experts recommend consulting with your doctor first. "Every kind of hair loss is distinct, and therapy is dependent on the type of hair loss the person is experiencing," explains Dr. McMichael. "Healthcare experts make treatment recommendations based on a variety of criteria, including the volume and location of hair loss. To make treatment choices, patients should always consult with their doctor."

Photo by Castorly Stock from Pexels You're certainly fastidious about washing your sheets and comforter, but can you say the same about your pillows? Because pillows may harbor a variety of pests, dead skin, dust mites, and their droppings, it's critical to treat them with the same care as the rest of your bed. To keep your pillows fresh and clean, we contacted Brian Sansoni, senior vice president of communications, marketing, and membership at the American Cleaning Institute, for his top cleaning and maintenance recommendations.

How to Clean Pillows

According to Sansoni, most pillows, including those filled with cotton, feather, down, and fiberfill, may be washed in a washing machine using warm water on the gentle cycle, but it's always a good idea to check the label first for cleaning instructions. "Your pillow may be one of the few that need dry cleaning," he explains. Foam pillows are a frequent variety that should not be washed since the agitation is too severe and will certainly tear up the cushioning. Regardless, foam pillows may be cleaned at home using a different way. "You may wash the detachable cover (if it has one) following the cleaning directions on the label," Sansoni explains. To clean the foam, remove any debris or dust from the cushion using a vacuum attachment.

How Often Should Pillows Be Laundered?

While the rest of your bedding should be washed on a regular basis, pillows have a little more leeway. Pillows should be washed every six months at the absolute least. To keep your pillows looking their best, Sansoni recommends cleaning them "at least every three months—or four times a year." Pillowcases should be washed with your bedding as part of your weekly cleaning regimen. While it is vital to wash your pillows on a regular basis, it is equally crucial to know when to replace them. Sansoni recommends replacing your pillows every one to two years. The National Sleep Foundation backs up this timeline, however it's worth noting that particular kinds of pillows may last even longer.

Is The Kind of Washing Machine Important?

For cleaning pillows, use a front- or top-loading washer without an agitator (the spindle in the middle of the washing machine). That doesn't mean you can't clean pillows in a top-loading machine with an agitator; Sansoni just suggests inserting the pillows in vertically so they don't get damaged and agitating for only one or two minutes on the mild cycle. "After cleaning, utilize your washer's spin dry function at least twice to remove as much moisture as possible from the cushions," he says.

Pillow Spot Treatment

As with cleaning, there are many approaches to spot-treating your pillows depending on their nature. Sansoni suggests spot cleaning any filthy parts of a foam cushion with a cloth soaked in a mild soap solution. If the pillow contains stains from things such as blood or saliva, you may wish to pre-treat the stains to help them come out. Digestants (detergents containing enzymes) should do the work.

How to Care for Pillows

Allowing your pillows to air-dry is entirely acceptable. You may even put them in the dryer, depending on the cleaning recommendations on the package. (For example, when foam pillows come into touch with heat, they might catch fire.) If you can use your dryer, Sansoni suggests putting it through multiple cycles to ensure the cushion is completely dry. "When drying, remove pillows and fluff them on a regular basis to minimize clumping and encourage equal drying," Sansoni advises. "Tossing a few tennis or dryer balls in with the pillows in the dryer can also help avoid clumping."

Down Pillow Maintenance

While your down pillows may seem to need professional care, they can easily be cleaned at home. Of course, you should consult the fabric care label, but washing on a gentle setting in cold water is often adequate for cleaning. "Launder two at the same time to help maintain your washing machine balanced throughout the spin cycle," recommends Sansoni.

Photo by cottonbro from Pexels No matter where you reside, you will eventually have to deal with dust. It grows on shelves, corners, televisions, and the underside of furniture. But rather of continually removing the resulting debris, what if there was a technique to actively combat dust before it forms? If you can believe it, anything's feasible. You may reduce the amount of dust in your house by doing a few simple maintenance tasks like periodically replacing your air filters, grooming your dogs, and cleaning your bedding.

Leave The Dust Outside

The outdoors is one of the most typical methods that dust is brought inside. According to Alicia Sokolowski, co-CEO of Aspen Clean and president of the company, "Dust may enter via open windows and doors, fractures in the walls, as well as from us people." In actuality, we can be the main culprit for introducing dust into our houses.

Employ A Doormat

Sokolowski advises installing a fiber doormat both outside and inside your front entrance so you may fully clean your feet before entering the house in order to avoid dust from entering your home on your shoes. "You might also request visitors to remove their shoes before entering the home. This could confine some dust to the corridor leading to your entry "she claims.

Keep The Windows Shut

We understand that on windy days it's good to have some fresh air flowing through your house, but try to avoid often opening the sash since this creates a channel for dust. Particularly if they front a road, ground level windows should be kept closed. The greatest time to keep your windows closed, according to Sokolowski, is during periods of heavy traffic since a lot of dust from the automobiles may accumulate. Vera Peterson, the CEO of Molly Maid, a Neighborly business, advises looking for broken windows if you're still seeing a lot of dust in your house. She adds that dust may also enter via leaky windows and doors. It's a good idea to inspect all the doors and windows in your house as a first step if you are seeing more dust than normal.

Maintain Plants Near Your Windows

Of course, it's impossible to always keep your windows shut. Sokolowski advises purchasing a plant and putting it in front of the open window as a result. According to her, houseplants are notorious for filtering dust, which they may collect on their leaves. We advise picking a plant with hairy or crinkly leaves rather than smooth ones since they will collect more dust.

Replace Your Air Filters

The air filters in your appliances should be replaced often whether you use window units or a central heating and cooling system. To reduce the quantity of dust in your home, it is advised that you replace your air filter every three months, according to Sokolowski. According to Melissa Poepping, creator of The Chemical Free Home, the size of your home and the time of year determine how often you should change or clean your filters. She advises monitoring the filter's appearance in addition to adhering to a timetable. If it's time to update it, you can know by a fast sight, she advises. The filters in your house will eventually stop retaining dust, grime, and pollen and begin to distribute them if you don't maintain them.

Keep Your Bedding Clean

One of the main sources of dust in the house might be bedding. According to Poepping, this is a result of the dust that is kicked about your room with each toss and turn since sheets, covers, and pillows tend to accumulate dust. She advises cleaning your bedding every two weeks to stop this from occurring. She explains that regularly washing your bedding can help you keep ahead of pet dander, dead skin, and hair-shedding dust. I take the decorative pillows outdoors to do the same and shake out the blanket as I would a rug. There are further steps you can take in addition to regularly cleaning your bedding to keep your bedroom dust-free. Sokolowski advises putting a "dust-proof" cover over your mattress. She explains, "These keep out any dust mites and also stop water damage." She also advises airing out your bedding every two to three days. Pull aside your covers so that your bedding can breathe; in hot, humid climates, dust mites cannot survive.

Pet Maintainance

Despite the fact that we like them, our furry companions may be a significant source of dust in the house because to pet dander and debris they drag in. There are, however, a few strategies to reduce the amount of dust they gather.

Grooming Regularly

Poepping advises purchasing high-quality de-shedding equipment and brushing your pet every day in order to solve this issue. In addition to combing them every day, Sokolowski advises setting your furry pals up with regular washings. It is advised to wash your dog once a month, preferably once every three months, according to her. Sokolowski advises against over-soaking your dog, though: It may dry out their fur and make their skin peel, which will ultimately produce more dust.

Sanitize Their Bedding

You should be meticulous about cleaning your pet's sleeping spaces, whether they are on their own pet bed or on the family couch. Wash their bedding once a week, but be sure to shake it outdoors first to get rid of hairs, grime, and dust, advises Sokolowski. "You run the danger of harming or clogging your machine if you place a bed straight into the machine." Before letting your pet sit on a couch or bedding, she also advises covering it with a blanket or towel. She explains that subsequently, "you can simply shake it out and throw it right into the wash."

Purchase An Air Purifier

A home's environment is made cleaner by an air purifier by removing impurities like dust from the air. "An air purifier may assist to lessen the quantity of dust accumulating in your house, even if it cannot completely eliminate dust," explains Sokolowski. "Dust enters your house by drifting through the atmosphere. By capturing the dust before it has a chance to settle on surfaces in your house, the air purifier does its part in keeping your home clean." The gadget circulates the air in the room while trapping the particles using a fan and internal filter. Unwanted dust particles are drawn in by the fan along with the air, which is then filtered, purified, and circulated back into the space, with the dust remaining lodged in the filter of the fan.

Use A HEPA-filtered Vacuum To Clean

Making use of the proper equipment is a necessary part of keeping your house dust-free. The majority of vacuum cleaners are quite effective at cleaning dust, but a HEPA filter will do so for a longer length of time. They eliminate germs, pollen, and 99.7% of all dust particles, claims Sokolowski. On the other hand, she adds, "certain vacuums may stir up dust and spit it back into the air because of their exhausts, inflicting more damage to your health than good."

Photo by Mark McCammon from Pexels Wiping surfaces, keeping an eye on the fridge, and cleaning dishes on a daily basis can save you time in the long run.

Keep your dishes clean

If you have a habit of leaving dishes in the sink to avoid cleaning them, try this easy approach to put the labor required into perspective: Set a timer before you start washing the dishes for a few days and keep track of how long it takes to clean up. If you know the chore would just take a few minutes, it will be easier to persuade yourself to do the dishes right now. To clean a severely charred saucepan without scrubbing, sprinkle the burned surface liberally with baking soda and pour in enough hot water to fill the pot a third to halfway up. When the water is cold enough to touch, go in with your sponge and scrape away the scorch with the baking soda solution. Dump the solution and thoroughly clean the saucepan with hot, soapy water. The Dishwasher Debate: While there is no definite perfect method to load a dishwasher (and what would couples argue about if such a command were set in stone? ), there is one universal rule: loading from back to front is significantly simpler.

Clear Out Your Sink

An all-purpose cleaner may be used to clean the sink, particularly the faucet, of germs and food particles. And, given that we all touch the faucet with raw chicken-covered hands, we should definitely clean it more often. Sponges should also be cleaned on a regular basis, either in the dishwasher or in the microwave. If you use a microwave, first make sure the sponge is free of metal, then get it extremely wet and nuke it for two minutes; be cautious while removing it, as it will be quite hot. Is there mold or bacterial growth on your sponge holder? Scrub mold away with a toothbrush soaked in bleach or white vinegar — but never both, since the combination causes a deadly chemical reaction. The sponge caddy should then be washed in hot, soapy water or run through the dishwasher.

Keep all surfaces clean

After usage, wipe off your counters and stovetops with an all-purpose cleanser. Stovetops, in particular, benefit from frequent, rapid cleaning since splatters, drips, and oil gets baked on if left too long. To remove baked-on splatters and greasy film from a cooktop, use a rough scouring pad. A Dobie Pad, a non-scratch scrubbing sponge, paired with a soft powder cleaner can quickly remove tough problems. To prevent scratching, scrub with the grain rather than in a circular motion, and use a delicate touch, allowing the product to perform the majority of the cleaning job rather than force. To minimize the development of splatters and greasy film from cooking, the outside of small appliances such as toasters, coffeemakers, and blenders that sit out on counters should be washed down periodically using all-purpose cleaners. Remove all detachable pieces and wash them by hand or in the dishwasher for a deeper cleaning. Apply an all-purpose cleaning to the outside, using cotton swabs or an old toothbrush to get into tight corners and other hard-to-reach areas.

Take on the Refrigerator

Add one basic job to your garbage day routine to keep track of your refrigerator: Open the fridge and inspect the contents while bagging the rubbish. Are there any spoiled leftovers? Throw them away. Are there any liquefied vegetables in the crisper drawer? Remove it. Are the carton's final few eggs ready to spoil? Make a point to eat omelets for supper and applaud yourself for being careful of food waste. How to Clean Refrigerator Spills: When sticky accidents occur in the fridge or pantry, make quick work of cleaning them by creating a compress. Soak a sponge or cloth in extremely hot water (be careful not to burn your hands) and wring it out so it's not leaking. Then, press it on the sticky place until the compress loses its heat. If the sticky spill has been sufficiently loosened, wipe it away; if it is still stubbornly sticking, repeat as required until the material loosens up, and then wipe clean.

Take Out the Trash As Soon As Possible

Here's a harsh reality: Time will not improve your waste issue. Take care of it right away.

Photo by Andrea Piacquadio from Pexels If you've ever battled with post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, you know how difficult it is to cure those dark areas. Often, fading those lasting traces takes longer than resolving the breakouts themselves; it might take months, if not years, for the discolouration to totally fade. The same is true for hyperpigmentation produced by sun damage or melasma (a very common gripe right now, as many notice lingering sun spots after the scorching summer season). Regardless of how you slice it: Those stains may be very difficult to remove. Of course, it's important to be kind with your skin and to give yourself grace. Your skin does so much for you every day, and those cells are working hard to turn over! If the markings simply won't go away, a few substances might help speed things along. Everyone's skin is distinctive, however the following players are widely praised by experts:

1.Vitamin C

Let's begin with the most well-known: Because of its ability to reduce hyperpigmentation, brighten skin tone, decrease moisture loss, help reduce skin inflammation, and fight UV damage, vitamin C is capital-B beloved by the beauty community—you'd be hard-pressed to find an expert who doesn't recommend adding a vitamin C serum to your daily lineup. "Vitamin C is one of the few active compounds that may help all skin types," said board-certified dermatologist Elizabeth Tanzi, M.D., assistant professor of dermatology at George Washington University Medical Center. You can even take vitamin C orally if you want to double up on skin-brightening properties; in fact, dual board-certified dermatologist Keira Barr, M.D., recommends both supplementing with vitamin C and applying it topically for optimal skin health—this ensures that there is enough vitamin C biologically available and active in and on the skin, she told mbg. Furthermore, there is much data associating vitamin C consumption to general skin health3. Consider it an additional boost to help hyperpigmentation erase quicker. If you want to attempt this one-two punch, check out our recommended vitamin C pills.

2. Kojic Acid

Kojic acid is a byproduct of fungal fermentation that is commonly praised for its skin-brightening properties—studies even suggest it may successfully brighten skin and erase dark spots. "It works its magic by inhibiting tyrosinase, an enzyme that is necessary in the UV-induced activation of pigment-producing cells in the skin," previously said board-certified dermatologist Rebecca Marcus, M.D. Furthermore, since kojic acid only targets excess pigment, there is no risk of excessive whitening or irritation, according to Marcus. Of course, kojic acid may still cause irritation (particularly in those with sensitive skin), but it's normally well tolerated. You may learn more about the dark spot fighter by clicking here.

3. Mandelic Acid

Finally, there is the wonderful mandelic acid. If you're not aware of this AHA, have a look: This exfoliant accelerates cell turnover and gently removes dead, highly pigmented skin, allowing even individuals with sensitive skin to join the party. (In fact, dermatologists claim it's one of the most bearable acids for sensitive skin.) Furthermore, "Mandelic acid has a special affinity for oil compared to other AHAs," according to board-certified dermatologist Cynthia Bailey, M.D., creator of Dr. Bailey Skin Care. "It has been demonstrated to minimize [excess] sebum production and excessive shine by penetrating deeper into oily pores." Even better, when combined with vitamin C, the advantages multiply: A mandelic acid and vitamin C skin care program was related with a 73% improvement in the look of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and melasma.

Photo by NipananLifestyle.com from Pexels Green tea has been loved for generations and is one of the most popular drinks in the world. Many firms have begun including green tea into their products, particularly those that promise to help your hair healthier. You may question, though, if green tea genuinely enhances your hair. This article delves into the history of green tea and its possible advantages for hair health.

What Exactly Is Green Tea?

Camellia sinensis is the plant that produces tea leaves. Tea leaves may make green, black, white, or oolong tea depending on the processing procedure. Green tea is manufactured from fresh tea leaves that are dried and exposed to sunshine to avoid oxidation and fermentation, which gives green tea its characteristic taste. Various processing processes may be used for different varieties of green tea. Matcha green tea, for example, is made from pre-harvest tea leaves that have been exposed to 90% shade, resulting in a deeper taste and increased antioxidant content. Green teas are widely renowned for their antioxidant content. The majority of the antioxidants in green tea are derived from flavonols, namely catechins. Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), the most abundant and strong catechin in green tea, has been associated to a lower risk of heart disease and some forms of cancer. Green tea and its extracts are being utilized for different reasons, such as reducing hair loss and enhancing hair health, due to its high antioxidant content.

Green Tea Hair Benefits

For its alleged advantages, green tea is incorporated to many hair care products. Here are some possible green tea hair advantages.

Hair loss may be avoided

Many men and women worldwide suffer from hair loss, which may be caused by a variety of factors such as stress, nutrition, autoimmune illnesses, and hormonal changes. Androgenetic alopecia, or hormonal hair loss, affects about 50 million men and 30 million women in the United States. In fact, 50% of men and 25% of women over 50 will have some level of hormone-related hair loss. The normal growth cycle of the hair varies after hair loss. The cycle is divided into three stages: androgen (hair growth), catagen (transitional phase), and telogen (rest) (hair loss). Two hormones, testosterone and dihydrotestosterone, have been linked to a reduction in hair growth and an increase in hair loss. According to some studies, EGCG may suppress the effects of these hormones on hair and decrease hair loss. Ten volunteers with androgenetic alopecia used Forti5 for 24 weeks in a company-funded pilot research. 80% of subjects reported substantial improvements in hair regrowth at the conclusion of the research. The supplement did, however, include an unknown quantity of green tea extract, melatonin, vitamin D, omega-3, omega-6, beta-sitosterol, and soy isoflavones. As a result, it's impossible to say if the green tea extract was responsible for these gains. In one research, mice that got a topical application of EGCG-rich green tea lost much less hair than those who did not. EGCG seems to reduce testosterone-induced hair loss by extending the androgen phase of hair development and decreasing the telogen phase, which results in hair shedding.

Promotes Hair Growth

Green tea may aid in hair growth and regeneration. In one tiny trial, researchers applied a topical green tea-derived EGCG extract to the scalps of three alopecia patients. The subjects' hair growth activity increased significantly after 4 days. EGCG seems to promote hair development by activating hair follicles and reducing skin and hair cell damage. Furthermore, in a mouse hair loss study, researchers discovered that 33% of the animals who drank green tea extract saw hair regrowth after 6 months, whereas no mice in the control group improved. However, it is still uncertain how quickly or effectively green tea hair treatments promote hair growth in individuals, particularly those without hormone-related hair loss.

Enhanced Nutrition Delivery

Hair is a component of the integumentary system, which comprises nails, skin, hair, and accessory structures. In truth, your hair grows straight from your skin, where it obtains blood flow and nourishment while growing. Researchers discovered that taking supplements containing green tea extract for 12 weeks enhanced cutaneous blood flow and oxygen delivery by 29% when compared to the control group in a short trial of 15 subjects. 30 individuals in the same trial consumed 4 cups (1 liter) of green tea for 12 weeks in another group. The green tea group improved skin moisture much more than the control group. The transport of oxygen and nutrients to the skin is closely tied to hair development. Hair loss may be caused by inadequate blood circulation. As a result, drinking green tea may boost hair development by increasing the flow of these nutrients to your scalp.

How to Use Green Tea on Hair

Because of the growth-promoting characteristics of green tea and green tea extract, they are often used as a key component in hair products. They are available online and at most retail outlets. Here are a few methods for using green tea on your hair: 1. Shampoo: Use a green tea extract shampoo on a regular basis. Apply the majority of the shampoo on your roots and scalp and gently scrub. Conditioner. Apply a green tea conditioner or hair mask to the roots, shafts, and tips of your hair. Leave on for 3-10 minutes, or until the manufacturer's recommendations are followed. 2. Conditioner: Hair rinse prepared from scratch. Allow 1-2 green tea bags to soak in boiling water for 5 minutes. When the liquid has cooled, apply it to your hair at the conclusion of your shower. 3. Homemade hair rinse: You may also attempt to consume 1-2 cups (240-480 ml) of green tea every day to feed your body with antioxidants.

A Word Of Warning

Although some study suggests that drinking green tea and using green tea hair products might help with hair development, there are a few factors to bear in mind.

Toxicity

While green tea is safe to drink, many green tea supplements and oils contain substantially greater levels of EGCG, which may cause major problems such as liver damage and stomach distress. According to a recent study, the safe daily dose of EGCG in supplements and brewed tea is 338 mg and 704 mg, respectively. As a result, be wary of supplements that contain much greater amounts. Also, before beginning a new supplement, consult with your healthcare physician. Most individuals may comfortably consume up to 3-4 cups (710-950 ml) of green tea each day.

How to Make Use of the Products

Green tea hair products are omnipresent, and their cost-effectiveness is dependent on how you use them. Hair follicles get blood flow and nourishment to encourage hair strand development. When a hair strand (shaft) grows out of a hair follicle, it no longer obtains nutrition. As a result, consuming green tea will have no effect on the strength of your existing hair. It will only effect newly formed hair in the hair follicle. While certain hair treatments hydrate and feed hair strands, they do not stimulate them to grow. If you use a hair mask or shampoo, be sure to apply it to your roots and scalp to allow the substance to reach your hair follicles. Also, while using shampoo, carefully exfoliate your hair to prevent hurting the roots.

In Conclusion

Green tea is an antioxidant-rich beverage that is popular all over the globe. Its consumption and use in hair products may reduce the risk of hair loss and perhaps boost hair regeneration. Many green tea hair products are available in shops or online, but for optimal effects, apply them to the scalp and roots. After washing and conditioning your hair, you may rinse it with brewed green tea. If you prefer to drink green tea, you may safely have up to 3-4 cups (710-950 ml) each day.

Photo by Shiny Diamond from Pexels Whether it's the cold winter weather or chronic dryness, coping with dry skin may be depressing. Finding the proper cosmetics and skincare products for your dry skin might be difficult. You may come across a product that purports to relieve dry skin, only to realize that it includes unnatural chemicals or irritating substances that make your skin feel much worse than it did before. You're in luck if you've been wanting to learn more about how to nurture your dry skin with clean beauty and skincare. This article will walk you through the best winter skin care techniques and tactics for glowing winter skin, and will help you say goodbye to dry skin for ever!

Incorporate Skin-Caring Ingredients

It's time to make cleaning a part of your everyday routine! Clean components in both cosmetics and skincare are essential for maintaining healthy moisture while avoiding discomfort. So, the next time you're looking for skin hydration solutions, keep these clean, moisturizing elements in mind:

HA (Hyaluronic Acid)

Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring chemical present in connective tissue throughout the body. It's one of the structural components of your skin that gives it a lush and dewy appearance. When applied to the skin, hyaluronic acid retains moisture and aids in the treatment of dermatitis, redness, and wrinkles. Including hyaluronic acid in your skincare regimen is an excellent approach to provide your skin with more hydration. If you want hyaluronic hydration from head to toe, consider combining jane iredale's BeautyPrepTM Hyaluronic Serum with Blossom Essentials' Rosa daily body moisturizer and letting your radiant skin speak for itself. But don't stop there; seek for cosmetic products that have hyaluronic acid in their compositions. This is an excellent approach to increase the benefits of hyaluronic acid while continuing your usual makeup regimen. Jane Iredale provides everything you need for hydration, from HydroPureTM Hyaluronic Lip Gloss to Face Primer to Foundation!

Natural Oils

Natural oils are another must-have component for clean hydration. Try skincare products containing coconut oil or tea tree oil, such as Blossom Essential's Honeybutter hydration salve, for dry skin symptoms such as itching, irritation, and redness! And jojoba oil is the way to go if you want to use potent and effective natural oils in your beauty products. Jojoba oil, a natural skin moisturizer, may not be as widely known as coconut oil or avocado oil, but its potent moisturizing capabilities make it an excellent addition to any cosmetic routine. It's so wonderful, in fact, that it's included in over 20 jane iredale products, including BeautyPrep Face Moisturizer, Dream Tint Tinted Moisturizer, HandDrink Hand Cream, PureMoist Lipstick, and Smooth Affair for Oily Skin Facial Primer. Talk about making the hype worthwhile!

Aloe Vera Gel

Aloe vera is a natural hydrator! Its potent hydrating effects aid in the relief of irritation, redness, and a variety of other dry skin complaints. Look no further if you're seeking for the best aloe vera products for dry skin! Aloe vera is used in Blossom Essentials' Honeybutter body salve, Rosa daily moisturizer, Lotus scalp oil, and Dandy shower gel for its high hydration and antimicrobial characteristics. Aloe isn't simply great in skincare products! Jane Iredale's Liquid Minerals Foundation also contains aloe leaf juice, which moisturizes your skin while delivering long-lasting coverage.

Accept Supplements

We're frequently taught that topicals and lotions are the key to hydrated skin, but hydrating your skin from inside is just as vital. Skin supplements, particularly those with the proper mix of vitamins and minerals, may work wonders for your skin. When looking for supplements for dry skin, seek for ones that include skin-loving vitamins. Blossom Important's Lilium hydration supplements include a potent combination of essential vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin A, Vitamin C, collagen, and zinc that are meant to alleviate inflammation and hydrate skin at the cellular level. These supplements may also boost your skin's natural cellular turnover, assisting in the regeneration and rejuvenation of skin from the inside out. Omega fatty acid supplements are another hydration must-have. Advanced Nutrition Program by Jane Iredale Skin Omegas include a nutritious combination of omega fatty acids such as omega-3 from fish oil, omega-6 from primrose oil, and vitamin A, all of which support interior hydration and a healthy lipid layer. These components are fantastic for all skin types, but particularly for transforming dry, flaky regions into soft, smooth skin.

Change Up Your Winter Routine

The key to treating and maintaining your dry skin is consistency. Begin your dry skin skincare regimen with a moisturizing and soothing body cream, such as Blossom Essential's nourishing Rosa moisturizer. If you want to take it up a level with an extreme hydration spot treatment, consider Blossom's best-selling Honeybutter body balm. When it comes to cosmetics, you want to choose items that will not aggravate your dry skin and, better yet, will help you cure it further. Allow me to introduce you to Jane Iredale's whole beauty range if this sounds like a long shot. Purepressed Base Mineral Foundation, Smooth Affair Brightening Face Primer, and Glow Time Full Coverage Mineral BB Cream, for example, assist to enhance your natural beauty while also hydrating your face. It's a win-win situation for your skin! Don't be discouraged by dry skin; with Blossom hydration products and Jane Iredale cosmetics, your winter skin has never looked better!

Photo by Karolina Grabowska from Pexels Various health benefits can be gained from essential oils extracted from plants. The correct use of these products can strengthen the hair shaft, promote hair growth, and prevent split ends. The therapeutic properties of essential oils extend beyond their scents. They have been used in alternative medicine to treat various diseases for centuries. Essential oils are available in various types, each of which has unique benefits. Hair growth and health can be promoted by many essential oils, but not all of them are good for it. It has been found that some essential oils can actually do more harm than good in the long run. Some of the most unique and productive oils for hair growth and health can be used to treat your hair.

A Guide To Essential Oils For Hair Growth

Studies have shown that essential oils promote hair growth. Now that that's clear let's learn about essential oils for hair and different products you can use to support your hair.

A Healthy Scalp

Lavender Oils: Are calming and can treat active inflammations that can impact the scalp, such as eczema and psoriasis. A lavender-boosted hair growth shampoo and matching hydrating conditioner will keep our scalp clean, so our hair can grow and flourish (and smell great, too). Chamomile: Like lavender, it is an essential oil that soothes hair and scalp. Furthermore, it adds shine to our hair and keeps the scalp lightly hydrated. Tea tree oil: Besides being anti-inflammatory and antibacterial, it helps treat scalp conditions. As it promotes a clean environment, it supports a clear hair follicle and is considered a hair growth essential oil.

Stimulates hair growth

Rosemary oil is one of the most successful essential oils for hair growth. In addition to stimulating hair growth and conditions the scalp, drawing oxygen and blood. By including it in a hair care regimen - whether through treatment, a shampoo, or a conditioner - faster hair growth is likely to occur. Peppermint stimulates blood flow by drawing it to the area. Applying peppermint to the scalp or using a shampoo and conditioner infused with peppermint, for example, can stimulate hair growth, shine, and volume. Cedarwood essential oil creates balance on the scalp and fights bacteria, making it an excellent essential oil for hair growth.

Nourishing Hair

Ylang-ylang hydrates hair and has a floral fragrance. By improving shine, conditioning, and preventing breakage or dryness on the scalp, this product helps to maintain a healthy scalp. Sandalwood also smells lovely, but it helps hydrate the scalp from root to tip to help prevent additional stress. Almond oil promotes optimal hair growth by providing moisture to the scalp.

Is It Safe To Use Essential Oils?

Skin irritation and allergic reactions are the most common risks associated with essential oils. For essential oils to be effective, they must be diluted due to their high concentration. Furthermore, you can also simply massage your scalp as often as possible as a way of keeping it healthy. Most essential oils are safe when used correctly and won't cause any side effects. It is crucial, however, to use it wisely, just like any other substance you put in your body. We do not recommend eating or drinking essential oils. Please note the following factors:

Quantity

Essential oils are most safe when used at the correct dose. The use of high concentrations and incorrect amounts of essential oils (used in laboratory and animal studies) have been found to cause cancer and other adverse effects on the human body. Using improperly can damage the skin, liver, and other organs. The use of excessive oil can lead to oily hair and oily scalp, causing irritation to users. Knowing the proper dosage of carrier oil is essential.

Quality

A synthetic chemical or another essential oil with a similar odor can sometimes convert essential oils into a modified version. Essential oil can be blended with vegetable oils to create a diluted version. The label should indicate cleanliness. It is not always bad if the bottle states that 20% essential oil is mixed with 80% vegetable oil. Occasionally, this is done to make more popular oils, such as rose or neroli oil, more affordable (pure tea costs more than $100 per teaspoon). You should dilute professional-grade essential oils for safety purposes if you start using them.

The Application Method

It may be safe to use safe essential oils in one method but unsafe in another. Inhaling some oils is considered safe but applying them to the skin at a concentration of 3-5% can cause irritation. For instance, oregano, cloves, and cinnamon bark are used in the production of essential oils. Orange, bergamot, lemon, lime, and angelica oils are among those that can cause phototoxicity (severe burns or skin cancer). Verify the recommended method of use, the concentration, and the intended use of the essential oil. Consume oil only with the advice of a professional.

Conclusion

Hair growth may be stimulated by essential oils and scalp massage if inflammation or poor blood flow to the scalp is present. When massaging essential oils onto the scalp, mix them with carrier oils in small amounts. The essential oils may need to be applied repeatedly or frequently to show results for some people. Those who fail to achieve the desired results can speak to their doctor about other options to reduce hair loss.