JOHNSON’S® NATURAL™ product line, which naturally and gently cares for baby’s skin and hair makes it easy to infuse natural elements into your life by using ingredients such as fruits and plants.

Sara Snow, Natural and Green Living Expert and TV Host is thrilled with the new addition for “natural” moms. She shares simple tips and ideas that every mom can incorporate into her daily routine to make her life more natural:

No More Paper or Plastic:

Any time you hit the grocery store, meat market, or even mall; take your own reusable shopping bag.

Unplug:

Reduce the consumption of electrical energy by simply unplugging electronics when they’re not in use. Phone chargers draw energy all day long when left plugged into the wall, and electronics can use 40% of their regular running energy when plugged in on standby.

Conserve Water:

Take quicker showers, fix leaky faucets and shut off the water while you brush your teeth. That alone can save almost 2000 gallons a year.

Reach for the Stars:

Always look for the Energy Star seal. Appliances with this seal use less energy, save you money and help protect the environment. Available products range from programmable thermostats to cordless phones. To give an example, Energy Star washing machines use 50% less energy and could reduce your utility bills by over $100 a year.

Switch out Light bulbs:

Americans buy 1 billion bulbs a year. If everyone would switch out just one conventional bulb for a compact fluorescent light bulb (CFL), it would be like pulling a million cars off the roads. Plus, because the bulbs last 10 times as long and are 25% more energy efficient, they’ll save you money.

1. Avoid using excessive styling products like hair sprays and gels. These styling products will strip out sebum and dry out your mane. Making it more susceptible to breakages

2. Avoid applying heat on your tresses. Stay away form heating tools such as the blow-dryer; straighteners, hot rollers or curlers. Heat will dry out your locks and cause breakages and damage.

3. Minimize or stop using products that contain chemicals. These include: dyes; perms and relaxers. If you do want to use them then you should limit their use to twice a month.

4. Make sure you cut all spilt ends and dead ends. Split ends will run down to the root of your hair if not removed. So cut all damaged hair once every eight weeks

5. To avoid splits from occurring do not over wash or shampoo your mane. And avoid using hot water on your locks.

6. Avoid wearing tight hair styles as they will pull and tug at your tresses and will cause splits and damage.

7. Finally the absolute best way to avoid dry brittle hair is to prevent them from occurring in the first place. And there is a product that will do just that. It is called Mira hair oil. The oil acts as a deep conditioning treatment for all kinds of hair. It will not only repair split ends and dry hair it will also acts as a moisturizer which will prevent your hair from getting dry and breaking up in the first place.

8. Finally keep your mane well moisturized with the above mentioned oil. A hair that is moisturized will be less likely to break and split off.

Follow these eight simple steps and you will no longer have weak, dry and brittle tresses to deal with

For some, the problem is hereditary or related to ethnic heritage. For others, it can be caused by a medical condition such as polycystic ovaries or a hormone-secreting tumor, or even the result of hormonal changes linked to menopause.

Still other women are interested in hair removal for areas such as legs, underarms, or bikini area, where growth is normal but sometimes undesirable.  No matter the reason, there is no shortage of ways to cope.

To help you decide which method of hair removal might be best for you, WebMD consulted several experts in the field. They helped us prepare this guide to the eight most popular methods of hair removal for women.

Hair Removal Method No. 1: Laser/Pulsed Light

What It Does: One of the more popular ways to remove hair is via laser or pulsed light – energy that goes through the hair shaft down to the follicle, where it destroys the hair’s root.  The hair does not immediately come out during a laser treatment. Instead, it weakens and falls out over time.  This means doctors can safely treat larger areas at one time and more comfortably for the patient.

Best For : Laser hair removal can be done anywhere on the body. The best candidates are women with dark hair and light skin. Lasers won’t work on white hair, and they are much less effective on blond hair, which Goldberg says usually responds best to electrolysis.

How Long It Takes : It usually requires 5-7 sessions, with a touch-up about once a year thereafter.

Cost : The cost runs between $150 and $500, or sometimes more depending on how many treatments are needed.

Hair Removal Method No. 2: Electrolysis

What It Is : The only method of hair removal that is permitted to be called “permanent,” electrolysis uses a tiny needle that slides down into the hair follicle until it reaches the cells responsible for hair growth.  The process can be uncomfortable, but local anesthetic creams can help.

Best For : Like other forms of hair removal, it is safe to do electrolysis anywhere on the body, the most popular place for women is the face.

How Long It Takes : Though the system requires that the removal be done hair-by-hair, so it can take up to 25 sessions, depending on how much you need removed, but each session may only be 5 or 10 minutes long.

Cost: Costs run between $40 and $90 per treatment, with 10 to 25 treatments (or more) sometimes necessary for permanent, lasting results.

Potential Drawback : Electrolysis can cause tiny scars where the needle is inserted. Though for most people they heal unnoticed, for those with darker skin tones it means an increased risk of hyperpigmentation and formation of keloids. Thus, it’s not recommended for this skin type.

Hair Removal Method No. 3: Vaniqa

What It Is: This topical prescription cream, also known as eflornithine 13.9%, works by blocking an enzyme that would otherwise stimulate hair growth. Without the enzyme, hair growth is retarded in that area, and eventually may stop.

Best For : Vaniqa works best for facial hair growth on the upper lip, chin, and cheeks.

Studies show Vaniqa is safe to use in combination with birth control pills and other hormone treatments when the cause of unwanted hair stems from reproductive problems such as polycystic ovaries. It is also safe for all ethnic groups and skin types.

Cost : Vaniqa costs between $80 and $225 per tube.

Hair Removal Method No. 4: Waxing

What It Is : It’s been around for centuries, but today’s waxes are far different than the sticky honey treatments of the past.  he soy cream is applied, then covered with special cloth strips. When the wax sets, the strips are removed, taking the hair with it.

Best For : Waxing can remove hair anywhere on the body, including the upper lip, chin, eyebrows, arms and legs. A bikini wax removes hair that might show when you’re wearing a skimpy bathing suit bottom, while a Brazilian wax removes all hair from the genital area.

Cost: The cost of waxing runs from about $10 for an upper lip, to $70 for upper and lower legs or a Brazilian wax. The procedure must be repeated every few weeks.

Hair Removal Method No. 5: Shaving

What It Is: Whether done with an electric or straight razor, shaving is akin to cutting hair – only it does so ultra-close to the skin. Shaving does not remove hair at the root, nor does it disturb the follicle. That means the effects are temporary, lasting anywhere from a few hours to a few days.

Potential Drawback: If hair is coarse shaving can cause ingrown hairs.

Hair Removal Method No. 6: Depilatories

What It Is: These creams and lotions use a chemical compound designed to dissolve the proteins that make up hair. Unlike shaving, which leaves sharp, hard, hair stubble just below the skin, depilatories leave a rounded, smoother edge – so stubble is minimized and regrowth appears to take longer. Still, treatments usually need to be repeated at least weekly, if not more often.

Best For : Best used for hair on the face, arms, and legs, many depilatories are not recommended for eyebrows or for use in the genital area.

Cost : Cost is between $5-$10 per tube or bottle.

Hair Removal Method No. 7: Tweezing

What It Is: Tweezing pulls hair out at the root. However, it does not affect the follicle, from which hair grows, so it’s only a matter of time before another one sprouts up.

Best For : Tweezing is best used to remove hair on small areas of the face – such as the upper lip, chin, or eyebrows.

Hair Removal Method No. 8: Oral Contraceptives and Hormonal Treatments

What It Is: For women whose hair growth is hormone-related — most often caused by a condition known as polycystic ovary syndrome — medications can help. The condition is known as hirsutism. Treatment includes drugs designed to reduce levels of androgens, the hormones linked to excess hair growth.

Medications commonly include birth control pills and/or anti-androgens, such as spironolactone, cyproterone acetate, and flutamide.

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Visit Your Stylist

Colouring, bleaching, perming, styling and hot summer sun all damage hair to some extent, causing it to dry out and split.  Before you go on the road it is best to have any split, dry ends trimmed off as this will instantly give the rest of the hair a healthier, shiny appearance and extra bounce. Hair is also less likely to split further and become frizzy when the ends of the hair shafts are smooth due to a recent trim.

Limit Your Shampooing

Even mild shampoo strips some of the natural oil from the hair and scalp, prompting oil glands to produce more to keep hair and skin moisturized. Hot sun and wind dry the hair and scalp which also prompts more oil production. When hair is shampooed less frequently, less natural oil is stripped away and oil production begins to slow down. If your scalp has already adjusted to less frequent washing before traveling, the problem of excessively oily hair will be lessened during your time away from home when you may not be able to wash it as often.

Coordinate Your Scarves

Beg, borrow or buy a few lightweight cotton scarves to match the outfits you are taking away with you. Before you leave home, practice wrapping, tying and creating new, trendy ways to wear them in and over your hair that suit your style and personality. Scarves are a great way to keep hair tidy when all else has failed. They also serve to protect it from the sun and wind.

Simple Styles

Styling products and appliances take up time and space, both of which are at a premium while traveling. Keeping your hair style as simple and natural as you are comfortable with will save precious space and time that are better used for more important things like clothing, souvenirs and sightseeing. Leave styling products at home and take full advantage of the natural glow your hair takes on without them.

GET A GOOD HAIRCUT

Split ends or porous hair can cause further damage due to its quick absorption of the sun’s rays, chlorine and salt water. For that reason, during summer months get your hair into excellent shape with a thorough haircut or trim. If hair is in very bad condition, you should consider a shock, reconditioning or hydrating treatment.

SPF FOR THE HAIR

More people are realizing the importance of protecting not just your skin, but your hair from the sun as well. While soaking up the sun, be sure to use hair products that provide some UV protection, otherwise you could wind up with really dry, broken strands at the end of the season. Riccardo is also a big advocate of large floppy hats for the summer, which not only protect your hair from the sun, but your scalp too. Use sun specific products with a UV protectant, like Riccardo Maggiore Gel-Vitale Moisturizing Styling Gel, which contains sunscreen agents to protect hair from damaging UV rays.

DRINK IT UP

Hair tends to be drier and more prone to breakage in the summer, so feed your thirsty strands with a deep conditioning treatment to help restore moisture and elasticity.

EAT WELL

By including plenty of good sources of essential fatty acids in your diet you can give your hair back its strength and shine. By eating salmon, seeds, nuts, olives and avocados you can keep your hair beautiful and healthy.

When I was a child times were different (I think) and when my mom was a child, I’m sure the world was more innocent than it is now but what is a parent to do if they have children growing up in today’s day and age (especially if they have a daughter).

The decisions a parent makes regarding their child are usually based on the child’s maturity level but what if your child is maturing faster than you want them to. When they’re a little girl, playing dress up is cute. You let them put on a little lip gloss, wear plastic heels and wrap a fake fur around them as they prance around the house with their tiara’s on….it’s cute, isn’t it?  Unfortunately, the cuteness and innocence wears off around the age of 9  (especially if she’s a chubby girl) because she’s starting to look a little older as well as devolop physically.

In your eyes she’s still a child but when she goes out the world she’s viewed a little differently. Lipgloss or any amount of make up on a pre-teen can add years to her face…..years that will have you as a parent nervous, so what do you do. How do you handle the little girl who is becoming a young lady and wants to play dress up as a pre-teen?

Some people say 12 is an okay age to allow your daughter to wear make up, while others say 15 or older. What do you think? At what age would you allow your daughter to wear make up?

Short Hair: The Sophisticate
Cropped hair signifies intelligence, openness and honesty -what you see is what you get. Shorter styles tend to make women appear older and sophisticated.  To make this look a little edgier, playful and younger use hair paste to whisk the edges of your hair piece by piece.

Shoulder Length: Always A Classic
Medium-length hair portrays a classic, strong and powerful appearance. To make this look a little less intimidating use a small straightening iron to crimp your hair.  This will balance the serious-look of your cut with a little spark of fun.

Long: Sultry Seductress
If long hair is well kept, it suggests confidence and sensuality, but messy styles may look like you are trying to distract from your flaws.  If you want a more innocent look use a straightening iron to flatten the hair leaving you with a simplistic, un-mysterious aura.

Curly vs Straight: Carefree or Polished
Waves give the impression of playfulness, warmth and a carefree nature, while straight hair give a look that’s more polished.  You can wear your hair straight or curly to any of these above cuts to create a different “personality.”

Ponytail: The Simpleton
A neat, traditional ponytail is the picture of poise that is ideal when you are looking to impress someone like your boss. A pony tail higher on the head with paired with a decorative clip gives you a more casual, energetic look.  Where a ponytail low or high with straight or curly hair and you will notice a difference in every look.

Maggiore Riccardo Summer Tips:
 
Fine Hair:

For fine hair, long layers are ideal. The layers will create movement and volume. This is perfect for the hot, summer months.

Wavy Hair:

Wavy hair is great for summer; it’s like beach hair without even stepping foot on a beach! Work with that texture and use plenty of moisturizer to emphasize the waviness. 

Curly Hair:

Heavy layers are good for curly hair too. However, you don’t want to over-layer the hair. It should be cut long enough to achieve the desired style. 
 
Thick Hair:

For thick, straight hair, increase layers to achieve more movement and further thin hair in order to accomplish a look that heavy hair sometimes will not allow.
 
How can you avoid scalp/part burns? 

Try to avoid parts in your hair all together! Use a fashionable headband or scarf to slick hair back. But if you must part your hair, use a sun specific product with a UV protectant, like Riccardo Maggiore Rinnova Texturizer, a unique leave-in treatment which contains sunscreen agents to protect hair from damaging UV rays. 
 
What’s the best way to deal with summer dryness?

Summer sun and heat can cause major dryness to hair. The key is to moisturize! Put tons of moisture in your hair. Use moisturizing shampoos, deep conditioners, leave-in conditioners – anything that will maximize moisture.  

If you plan to hit the beach or pool, apply oil or a product with SPF to the hair. This will create a “seal” that will protect and prevent salt water, chlorine or sun to penetrate and cause damage.
 
What’s a great tip for dealing with summer frizzies?

Find a product that will help combat frizziness, like Riccardo Maggiore Luminoso Anti Frizz Drops, a glossy finishing product that helps to smooth and seal the hair cuticle, offering a radiant luster while eliminating the frizzies and static electricity.  
 
The best way to control curls during the summer?

The best way to control natural curls is to use products that moisturize. Use a moisturizer, like leave-in conditioner, to produce long, flowing curls, and heavy product, like gel, to produce tighter curls.
 

You have met the man of your dreams, fallen in love with him and even got the marriage date fixed. And now, you are eagerly waiting for the day of your union, when the two of you would become each other’s, forever. In the meantime, you have started with the preparations, right from choosing the venue to selecting the bridal dress. Now, have you given any thought to the Wedding day makeup as well? No? Then, waste no more time and start taking care of yourself from this moment onwards. We have listed a number of make up tips and ideas for the bride, in the following lines, just for you.

Makeup Ideas For Bride

Before The Wedding Day

• Undertake a skin, hair and nail care program at least 6 weeks before the wedding. Start going for regular facials and manicures and ask your beautician to advise good beauty products as well.
• Stay away from the sun as far as possible. In case you have to move out, do not forget to use a sun-block, with at least 20 SPF. Try to avoid extremes of weather, like wind, pounding rain or freezing cold, as well.
• If you have a stressful job, make sure to go for relaxing massage, at least once in a week. Use essential oils in your bath and try to attend at least one aromatherapy session before the wedding.
• Do not compromise on your sleep; otherwise you will be hard-pressed to hide your under-eye circles on the D-day. At the same time, be happy. Remember, what goes on in your mind reflects on your face as well.
• Make the booking for the make-up artists at least 3-4 months before the wedding. Let him/her see your outfit, so that he/she can plan the exact look. You should also go for a trial session before the wedding.

• It is always advisable to synchronize your makeup with the bridal outfit and jewelry. If they are extremely heavy, then you should prefer to get light makeup done on the big day.
• The time of your wedding also has a bearing on the type and amount of makeup. For instance, heavy makeup looks good at night, but will make you seem very odd under the harsh rays of the sun.
• If your wedding has been scheduled for spring/summer, bright, pastel shades will work the best. For a winter wedding, warmer and deeper shades will be a better option.
• Though your bridal makeup needs to be heavier and more dramatic than the one you do for usual parties, it should no be so heavy that it makes you look like a made-up doll.
• Since it is your wedding, you will be photographed a lot. Remember, foundations will yellow tones work best with flash photography. While, the ones with pink tones will make you look too pale.
• Always go for a lip-liner that is the same shade as your lipstick. Otherwise, you might end up with a lip-line that is too noticeable. At the same time, always stick to long-lasting lipsticks, for your wedding.
• Remember, you have to balance the eye makeup with lip makeup. In case you want to go for dramatic eyes, go for a light-color lip shade. If you are using a dark lipstick, it is better to have natural, light eyes.
• Never ever forget to apply the foundation on your neck, back, ears and other exposed areas of the body as well. Otherwise, your face will look painted on and your beauty – artificial.
• It is advisable to go for a light dusting of translucent powder, so that your face does not end up shining too much. You can also apply bronzing powder to warm your skin tone and get a natural glow.
• Ask your sister, friend or some other female relative to carry a powder compact, tissues and lipstick for you. This will help you do the touch ups, especially if your wedding is going to be a long affair.

With so many hair brushes on the market, it can be very confusing to know which is the best one for your hair, and your pocket. Every hair stylist I know says the best hair brushes are a mixture of boar bristles and nylon bristles. These two materials weaved together, create the perfect hair brush, which will also promote minimal frizz!

So what’s so great about a boar bristle brush anyway? They are much gentler on the hair than plastic ones and redistribute your natural oils throughout the hair shaft, assisting in keeping your hair nice and healthy.

The best way to care for your brushes is to wash them from the build up of hair products. You first want to remove the hair that has left your head and has gotten tangled in the brush bristles. I actually use the tail end of a rat-tail comb and lift them off of the brush. Then I fill a basin with warm water , add a few squirts of clarifying shampoo, which will dissolve build up, and soak them in their for an hour or so. Then simply rinse and allow to dry, until your next use!

A great hair brush is an investment. For something decent, expect to pay upwards of $20.

The most famous, and considered the absolute best paddle brush is the handcrafted Mason Pearson. At $68-$215, it’s quite amazing if you can afford it. They are the best at smoothing out your hair.

Some consider the Denman Grooming Brush with Natural Bristle & Nylon Pins as a great alternative, at a more affordable price.

The Spornette G-36 is a favorite for blowouts! The porcupine & nylon bristles can grip even the kinkiest of curls and help you blow out to smooth, shiney goodness! Here’s a no frizz blow out tip. If you wait to blow out your hair until it is 80% dry, you will achieve little to no frizz. If you can not wait around for it to air dry a bit, using a paper-towel, sqeeze out the excess water from your hair, apply hair serum, and finger-blow dry your hair until it is 80 % dry. Then blow it out in sections with your new boar bristle hair brush! When doing this, I actually find that I need less hair product as well. This is also less damaging to the hair.

If you are detangling your hair in or out of the shower, you want to use a wide tooth comb. Hang one in the shower, and gently comb your hair before you step out. The gentlest way to comb your hair while it is wet is to start at the ends of the hair, slowly de-tangling it, working your way to the top. Using a brush while it is wet can actually cause hair breakage.

Some of my favorite hair serums that protect both protect, nourish and add shine to the hair are Morrocan Oil, Macadamia Nut Oil, Oscar Blandi Jasmine Oil Serum, Biosilk Silk Therapy, Global Goddess Shine Coconut Amla Revitalizing Hair Treatment, Carol’s Daughter Lisa’s Hair Elixir.