Monthly Archives: June 2020

Beauty

Tips to Naturally Regrow Your Hair remedies for hair growth

Your hair is said to be your crowning glory, and it’s normal to want to improve your hair if it’s not to your satisfaction. If you’re trying to regrow hair that you’ve lost or would simply like to improve the hair that you have, try some of these natural remedies. Their proven benefits can help to stimulate growth and enhance the hair that you have.

  1. Massage
    Massaging the scalp can help to restore hair growth and can be used in conjunction with hair oils and masks. This stimulates the scalp and can improve hair thicknessTrusted Source. Taking the time to massage your scalp each day can also help you relieve stress and tension. It’s thought that stretching forces during the massage encourage hair growth and thickness in the dermal papilla cells.
  2. Aloe vera
    Aloe vera has long been used for treatingTrusted Source hair loss. It also soothes the scalp and conditions hair. It can reduce dandruff and unblock hair follicles that may be blocked by excess oil. You can apply pure aloe vera gel to your scalp and hair a few times per week. You can also use shampoo and conditioner that contain aloe vera.
  3. Coconut oil
    Coconut oilTrusted Source contains fatty acids that penetrate inside the hair shaft and reduce protein loss from hair. Coconut oil can be used either before or after you wash your hair depending on your hair type. If your hair tends to be oily, you can do a leave-in treatment overnight or for a few hours before you wash it. Massage coconut oil into your scalp and all of your hair. If your hair is dry, you can also use it as a leave-in treatment. There needs to be more research on coconut oil as a promoter of hair growth, but it’s been shown to improve the health and luster of hair and has been used for centuries.
  4. Viviscal
    Viviscal is a natural hair-growth supplementTrusted Source that promotes hair growth in people with thinning hair. It contains a marine complex known as AminoMar C. This is made of minerals, vitamins, and shark and mollusk powder. These ingredients help to regenerate new cells and strengthen existing cells. You have to take the pills twice a day for at least six months in order to see results. Viviscal also makes a shampoo and conditioner.
  5. Fish oil
    Consuming omega fatty acids can help to improve your hair from the inside, since they are filled with nutrients and proteins. Taking an omega supplementTrusted Source along with antioxidants helps to improve hair density and diameter. It also reduces hair loss. Omega fatty acids help your cells to work correctly and can boost immunity, leading to better overall health. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended dosage.
  6. Ginseng
    Taking ginsengTrusted Source supplements can promote hair growth by stimulating hair follicles. Ginsenosides are the active components of ginseng and are thought to be responsible for its positive effect on hair. Always take as directed and be sure to check for any possible side effects.
  7. Onion juice
    If you can handle the smell of onion juice, you may find that the benefits are worth it. Onion juice has been shownTrusted Source to successfully treat patchy alopecia areata by promoting hair growth. Onion juice is also thought to improve circulation. Animal studies show improved keratin growth factor and blood flow to the cuticles. You can blend a few onions and squeeze out the juice. Apply the juice to your scalp and hair and leave in for at least 15 minutes. Then shampoo normally.
  8. Rosemary oil
    Rosemary is one of the first essential oils people choose to promote hair growth and reduce hair loss. Rosemary oilTrusted Source stimulates new hair growth and can be used to treat androgenetic alopecia. Mix a few drops of rosemary oil into a carrier oil and massage it into your hair and scalp before rinsing. Do this a few times per week. Add a few drops of rosemary oil into your shampoo and conditioner on a daily basis. Do not use essential oils directly on the skin. Always mix them in a carrier oil or shampoo.
  9. Geranium oil
    You can use geraniumTrusted Source oil to promote hair growth and boost circulation. Mix a few drops into a carrier oil and use it to make a hair mask. You can also add a few drops to your shampoo and conditioner. Geranium oil can help to strengthen, hydrate, and restore your hair.
  10. Lemon
    You can use fresh lemon juice or lemon oil since they are said to enhance hair quality and growth. Lemon oilTrusted Source can help you to maintain a healthy scalp and encourage hair growth. Apply fresh lemon juice to your scalp and hair 15 minutes before you shampoo. You can use lemon essential oil diluted in a carrier oil as a hair mask.
Swimsuits

Summer swimwear trends for super stylish quarantine sunning

With holidays cancelled, our dreams of bikini-clad beach days have, for now at least, been put on pause.
But thanks to this week’s heatwave, we’ll still have the chance to sizzle in the sun – even if it is from our garden or the park.
Here are some of the season’s biggest swimwear trends
One-shouldered
One-shouldered tops were everywhere last summer, and this year’s coolest cossies come with a clavicle exposed. At Badgley Mischka , super sleek one-shouldered swimsuits came in hues of lemon and lime, while Miami-based swimwear brand Maheli Heli showed an array of luxe one-shouldered bikini tops paired with mismatched bottoms that made us crave that carefree Cali girl life. We love this two-tone number from London-based sustainable swimwear label Casa Raki – pair with linen trousers and oversized sunnies for serious garden glam.
Geometric 80s prints
The 80s influence was a key clothing trend last summer and this season it’s all over our swimwear too. Get ahead of the curve by opting for one of British resortwear label Lelloue’s geometric print bikinis or this really rather lovely abstract pastel geometric print number from Self Portrait. Best paired with an oversized straw hat and a glass of rosé in hand.
Acid brights
It seems we just can’t get enough of highlighter hues. Miami brand I Shine 365 did acid brights in a range of sporty silhouettes, while Maheli Heli’s high shine hues are a one way ticket to getting that handsome Deliveroo driver’s attention. Pair this lime green crinkle cut cutie from Italian swimwear label Reina Olga with chunky trainers and a visor for that perfect balcony ‘gram.
Short sarongs
Banished to the back of our cupboards sometime around mid-noughties, sarongs have been absent from our summer packing lists for the best part of a decade, replaced by kaftans and floaty maxis. This season though sarongs, and particularly the mini variety, are, once again, set to have their moment in the sun. Pair with Birkenstocks and a bucket hat ready for the costa del patio.
Surf’s Up
Surfer-chic was one of the big trends for summer 2019 and judging by the runways of Miami Swim, it’s only set to swell come summer 2020. From rash guard-style vests, to sporty high necklines, zips and sleeves, this summer it’s cool to be covered up. While Milanese label La DoubleJ’s psychedelic print rash vest’s don’t come cheap, they’re a hard-working summer wardrobe staple that can be worn as a top with everything from hot-pants to skirts and even jeans in winter. Oh, and they’re totally fabulous.

Beauty

The skin care guide you need to read before summer

Why sunscreen is the key skin care product you should be using. Plus, everything you need to know about the new and improved facial SPF products that are full of skin loving ingredients, work perfectly under makeup and won’t cause a breakout.
So, what is the sun actually doing to my skin?
There are two types of UV rays from the sun that are damaging to the skin, UVA and UVB. “UVA rays penetrate deeply into the skin causing genetic damage to cells and photo-ageing (wrinkling and blotchiness). UVB rays penetrate the top layer of the skin, causing damage to cells, [as well as] causing the redness you get from sunburn and playing a key role in the development of skin cancer,” says Aranda. “As a result, the sun is one of the biggest contributors to degenerative ageing of the skin, which results in wrinkling, and loss of skin tone and elasticity, as it also breaks down collagen. It is believed as much as 80% of premature facial ageing, such as wrinkles and fine lines – is due to sun exposure,” explains Aranda.
What should I be doing about it?
Along with the use of clothing, hats, sunglasses and shade, wearing sunscreen plays a crucial role in protecting your skin from the sun, especially when the UV index is 3 or above or if you’re going to be exposed to sun for prolonged periods.But what is sunscreen actually doing for your skin, you ask? Well, SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor. This relates to the amount of time it takes for redness to appear on the skin, compared to when no product is used at all. “For example, if it takes 10 minutes for unprotected skin to show redness, then [skin with] an SPF30 sunscreen, correctly applied, in theory will take 30 times longer, or 300 minutes to burn,” says Aranda. However, due to factors such as skin type, UV levels, swimming, drying and how much sunscreen you apply, it is always recommends to use other sun protection methods too, such as wearing a hat, sunglasses and sitting in the shade.
How do I make sure I am properly protected?
The first step to making sure you’re protected is to ensure you’re wearing a broad spectrum SPF30 or higher on your face. Your face is the one of the most exposed parts of your body, so protecting it when the UV index is 3 or above is crucial. “The higher a product’s SPF the more UVB radiation it filters. Sunscreens labelled broad spectrum are also protective against UVA,” says Aranda. The most common mistake that is made with sunscreen however is not wearing enough and not reapplying often enough. Cancer Council recommends applying at least one teaspoon for each limb, and one teaspoon for the face, neck and ears, as well as remembering to reapply throughout the day.
What is the easiest way to incorporate this into my routine?
You probably think of sunscreen as a thick, sticky formula that makes your face ghostly white, but that’s actually a thing of the past. There have been huge developments in sunscreen over the last few years, which has seen in the introduction of facial sunscreens with lightweight textures, a variety of finishes and, skin care benefits. This means, there is a now a formula to suit pretty much every lifestyle; whether you prefer UV protection in your anti-ageing moisturiser, want to wear it under, or as, your makeup, or even want to re-apply throughout the day without having to re-do your makeup, sunscreen is more wearable than ever.
Cancer Council is just one of the brands whose new formulations are making it easier than ever to incorporate a facial sunscreen into your daily beauty routine; ultra lightweight, non-greasy with a matte finish, dermatologically tested and containing skin loving ingredients, the Face Day Wear Moisturiser SPF50+ or BB Cream are perfect options to protect your skin without interfering with your chosen beauty look. These formulas also provide broad-spectrum protection (we know why that’s important now) and are available in tinted and non-tinted options (in light and medium shades), so there’s really no excuse to not apply sunscreen on your face.
Beauty editor’s tip: if opting for the moisturiser, apply it after your serum and eye cream and before makeup in the morning. However, if you’re using the tinted option or BB cream, it’s perfect for going sans foundation, providing fresh-faced coverage and SPF protection in one. Hello summer!

Lingerie

Underwear Every Woman Need To Know

These days, underwear is about more than just pants. Here’s everything else you should slip between skin and clothes.
Undershirt
This isn’t necessary all the time, but an undershirt prevents sweat stains and means your dress shirts need washing less so last longer.
Go for a V-neck – few things kill your look like a crew neck behind an open collar – in breathable cotton. Look for tight fits in light to mid grey – it’s less visible under a white shirt than white. Vests also create visible lines on your shoulders, so stick to T-shirts.
Socks
White socks are streetwear’s current obsession, but if you’re not in a hoodie, stick to classic black or navy. Your socks should be long enough to show no skin when you cross your legs, unless you’re after mankles. In which case, invisible socks let you flash yours without stinking out your shoes.
Underwear Rules
Clear Your Drawers Out Regularly
No matter how well you treat your underwear, eventually those tighty whities will turn to grubby grundies. Make sure that you have a regular check-in with your collection of underwear (about every three months or so) and dispose of anything that you’d be embarrassed to be seen in by a significant other.
Pick Your Fabrics Wisely
In most cases, cotton underwear is a great option because it’s natural, breathable and will absorb a degree of unwanted moisture down below – it’s basically your best bet for every day. But if you’re exerting yourself, things get a little more, ahem, steamy, so you’ll need to look for fabrics that bolster cotton’s natural assets by wicking away moisture. A cotton-spandex blend is ideal for gymwear and won’t need to be wringed out after you’ve achieved a PB on leg day.
Size Yourself Up Properly
For reasons which we won’t go into, trying on underwear in shops isn’t good form. Having an awareness of your core size and sticking to a certain brand when you’ve found the perfect fit is crucial for comfort, however.
Underwear which comes up too large will have you shifting around in your seat all day, while anything that’s smaller than it should be will cut off your circulation rather than boost your package. Size matters.

Apparel & Clothing

Best Dresses to Wear as a Wedding Guest This Spring

If the wedding invites are already rolling in, and you don’t know what on earth you’re going to wear, keep scrolling for some major dress inspo. You’ll stand out at the ceremony and reception wearing any of these numbers—without taking attention off the bride
For a Botanical Garden Ceremony
Nothing says, “It’s spring!” like a good ol’ fashioned floral dress. This one has a subtly sexy V neckline. The best part? It unbuttons down the front so you can wear it as a duster over a pair of jeans later.
For a Casual Affair
If the invite says it’s casual, a sunny yellow maxi dress with tassel ties and flutter sleeves will do the trick. Pair it with a small clutch and white slides you’re set.
For a Tropical Destination Wedding
Headed somewhere warm for a friend’s nuptials? A blue patterned mini dress will definitely keep you cool. Accessorize with statement earrings and matching block-heel sandals to complete the look.
For a Wedding That’s Black-Tie Optional
While this dress code can cause a lot of confusion, it basically means you can wear a cocktail dress, like this elegant long-sleeve one, if you don’t want to wear a long gown. The bold pattern will catch everyone’s eye, while the pleated skirt and ruffled sleeves make it extra fancy.
For a Formal Church Setting
Headed to a church for your friend’s big day? A polka-dot midi dress with ruffles in the skirt and sleeves will look super sophisticated—especially when worn with ankle-strap heels.
For a Glam Hotel Ceremony
A slinky slip dress in a gorgeous shade of gold will totally fit the vibe of a wedding in the hotel lobby and reception on the rooftop.
For a Beach Wedding
Are the nuptials taking place next to the ocean? Get yourself a stunning halter-neck maxi dress that channels the vibrant color of the water. A pair of sandals make walking on the sand a breeze.
For an Artsy Museum Wedding
If it’s a modern ceremony taking place at a museum or gallery, a sculptural-looking dress with knotted details at the waist is perfect. Accessorize with velvet heels in a blush tone to keep all eyes on your cool look.
For an Outdoor Wedding
Outdoor weddings can be romantic and beautiful, but they can also be uncomfortably warm. A cold-shoulder silhouette with delicate lace fabric will feel breezy in any heat.
For a Black-Tie Wedding
If it’s a super formal occasion, go all out in a full-length one-shoulder sequin gown with a thigh-high slit.
For a Wedding That’s Semi-Formal
OK, so if it’s not as formal as a black-tie wedding, but it’s somewhere in between, a tiered midi dress with a cape detail is the way to go.

Apparel & Clothing

Spring summer fashion trends

While the runway showcases what’s coming next in fashion, the streets display not only the future but also what’s on-trend right now. So, if you’re looking to keep your wardrobe up-to-date, the world’s top street style stars have the inspiration you need.

  1. Bike Shorts with Blazers
    Athleisure is the trend that keeps giving, and its latest offering is as unexpected as it is stylish. The bike shorts were worn with blazers by many style-savvy showgoers this fashion month. Offering a fresh blend of sportswear and tailoring, the look was both striking and chic. Of course, while it may not be appropriate for either the office or the gym, the outfit is perfect for strutting the streets or attending Sunday brunch with your best friends. So, don’t be afraid to try it for yourself.
  2. Animal Instincts
    This season, street style stars let their animal instincts take over with bold and wild prints. In particular, loud leopard print was a favourite amongst the fashionistas and appeared on a variety of garments, including pants, coats, dresses, suits, and more. To follow the lead of these chic ladies and unleash your own inner jungle cat, choose strong and striking designs with bold and bright colours. Alternatively, consider an all-over leopard print look with matching separates or a dress/jumpsuit. You can even add a leopard print bag or shoes if you’re feeling playful.
  3. Boiler Suits
    Utilitarian designs appeared in all the major fashion cities throughout this fashion month. Of course, one particular style stood out from the pack. Originally designed as a one-piece protective garment for manual labour, boiler suits are now as fashionable as they are functional. To rock the look for yourself, just pick the cut and colour that suits you best. These long-sleeved jumpsuits are available in a variety of fantastic styles. So, you won’t be short on choices.
  4. Lavender Tones
    Ultra Violet may be the Pantone but street style stars preferred a softer take on the trend this season. Rocking a range of shades from the lavender family, fashionistas proved that light purple is seriously stylish. Whether worn in the form of boots, dresses, coats or even head-to-toe ensembles, the flattering and feminine colour added a lovely touch to looks. Try it for yourself if you’re after something subtle yet exciting.
  5. Puff Shoulders
    Proving once and for all that the minimal trend is over, this show season saw attendees embrace lashings of fabric. While this meant bold ruffles and oversized silhouettes, it also resulted in statement puff shoulders on both dresses and blouses. Simultaneously striking and stylish, these puff sleeves added a fun ’80s twist to modern outfits. Try the look yourself if you’re after a powerful and fashionable daytime style. Just be sure to keep the rest of your look subdued, so you don’t appear over-the-top.
  6. Neo-Gothic
    Are you ready to embrace your dark side? If so, make like the street style stars Fashion Month and try a neo-gothic look. To wear the trend, follow their lead and pair an all-over black ensemble with on-trend pieces. Essentially, you can wear what you like, but remember to keep the overall vibe dark and moody with a chic twist. Also, consider adding a dark red lip for a sexy touch.
  7. Coloured Tartan
    Leopard wasn’t the only popular print show season. Tartan also appeared on the streets of New York, London, Paris and Milan. Of course, in true fashion week style, the traditional print wasn’t worn subtly. It was donned all over in eye-catching colours by the fashion pack. Want to try the look for yourself? Pick up a tartan suit, jacket or pair of pants that features the classic pattern in unique and bold colours, such as red, blue, green and yellow.
  8. Bucket Hats
    Bucket hats are well and truly back. Yes, the iconic ’90s accessory is a must-have item and should undoubtedly be on your shopping list if you don’t already own one. Providing both sun protection and style, these casual and cool hats are perfect for weekend ensembles. Whether plain, patterned or featuring a logo, the brimmed hats add an on-trend edge to any outfit. Wear them with dresses, slouchy suits, overalls, and more.
  9. Patchwork
    Patchwork is no longer just a craft that your grandma enjoys. It’s also one of fashion’s latest trends. Spotted on the streets outside fashion shows from Paris to New York, patchwork appeared on dresses, jumpsuits, pants and more. As colourful as it is creative, the look sews together contrasting pieces of fabric to achieve an eclectic and eye-catching desi
  10. Shrunken Bags
    Every show season has its must-have handbag is certainly no exception to this rule. However, unlike previous seasons, the latest “It” bag isn’t defined by its shape. Instead, its size is what sets it apart from the rest. Shrunk down to fit no more than a phone and lipstick (if you’re lucky), this season’s most lust-worthy bag is also its smallest. So, if you value style over function
Lingerie

How to check if you’re wearing the wrong bra size

It may surprise you to hear that you could have been wearing the wrong bra size all your life.
According to Harper’s Bazaar, up to 80% of us may be making the mistake of wearing a bra that actually doesn’t fit us properly. Those stats might sound quite dramatic, but it’s not the end of the world – and wearing the wrong size is easily done.
For a lot of women, it’s hard to find a high street underwear shop that sells their size anyway, so many of us simply make do with the closest fit.
Bras can be a pain at the best of times, let alone when they’re not properly fitted. Here is the definitive guide to knowing if you’re wearing the wrong size, and how to measure yourself easily at home so you can check.
This is a tricky question. It’s certain that wearing an ill-fitting bra can create an overall unflattering shape, but is wearing the wrong size actually bad for you?
Some sources have published articles, like this one from The Conversation, whose headline outwardly condemns the ill-fitted bra as a cause of serious health issues. On closer inspection, these end up being lists of symptoms many of us will encounter on a day-to-day basis – grooves in the shoulder, raw skin, and back pain to name a few.
There is little evidence showing that wearing either the wrong size bra size, or no bra at all, is seriously bad for your long term health. However, the physical and psychological effects of ongoing discomfort shouldn’t be disregarded, as they themselves can lead to further health issues down the line.
One of the reported problems associated with wearing the wrong bra size is an increased desire for breast reduction surgery, implying that the issue can contribute to body-dysmorphic thoughts. Another is that, over time, posture can be affected if breasts aren’t supported properly.
Typically, women wear a cup size that is too small, and a band size that is too big. Avoid wearing the wrong size bra, and get yourself measured – or do it yourself at home.
How to Measure Your Bra Size
Measuring your own bra size is very simple, and it can make the world of difference to your everyday comfort. It can also transform underwear shopping from a frustrating experience into an enjoyable one.
You need just two things to measure your bra size:

  • An unpadded bra – the best-fitting one you own
  • – A soft dressmaker’s tape measure
    Step 1: Band Size
    Measure around your torso directly under the bust line, keeping the measuring tape snug against the skin, and level. Make note of the number in inches, and take a look at the band size table on this page to see what your correlating band size is.
    Step 2: Bust Size
    Make sure you’re wearing a non-padded bra, and measure the distance around the fullest part of your breast, keeping the tape measure level, and being careful not to pull it too tight.
    Step 3: Calculate Your Bra Size
    Your bra size is made up of your band size and your cup size. Calculate your cup size by subtracting your band size from your bust size, and use the table on this page to see which alphabetical UK cup size you are. You can also use an bra size online calculator to work out your size.
    Remember that your bra size will likely fluctuate and change over time. This is due to a range of factors such as hormones, weight changes and pregnancy, so it’s important to re-measure your breasts every year or so to make sure you’re still wearing the correct bra.
    Your bra, if you choose to wear one, should be fundamentally comfortable and supportive. From lacy lingerie to shapewear, never settle for anything less than great quality underwear that is designed from a deep understanding of what your body needs.