Tips for Choosing Products for Oily Skin
From squalane to essential oils and beyond, folks who struggle with oily skin have likely received endless advice about how to manage it. With so many options on the market, it can be difficult to tell which ones are actually effective and which might just make your skin care issues worse. The next time you go shopping for products to help manage your oily skin, take a look at the ingredient list. These ingredients are among the most effective for actually helping your complexion without causing additional skin care issues.
Squalane for Proper Hydration
Having skin that is properly hydrated is of the utmost importance, regardless of how oily your skin may naturally be. Unfortunately, many people who have an oily skin type fail to properly hydrate their skin because they think the moisture will make their complexion even shiner or that it will produce more oil. In fact, your skin produces more oil when it is dehydrated because it thinks that it needs the moisture. Squalane is one of the best options for folks with oily skin because it hydrates the skin without making it greasy, allowing for a proper balance of hydration in the skin.
Matte Without Makeup
If you’ve looked at any beauty blog lately, you already know that matte skin is one of the hottest makeup trends right now. It is especially appealing to people with oily skin, who often have trouble achieving a look that is not shiny. Unfortunately, matte makeup can significantly dry out your skin, leading to flaking and even premature wrinkles, even if you are using a product with squalane on top of it. Clay is one of the most effective ingredients for creating a matte complexion without drying the skin. It is packed with nutrients and will safely pull excess oil from the surface of the face.
Reducing Natural Oil
If you have naturally oily skin, you know your skin texture is just part of your body chemistry and not likely the results of anything you have eaten or put on your face. This means you need an ingredient in your skin care products that will naturally reduce your oil output. Glycolic acid is extremely effective for reducing natural oil production in the skin. Not only that, but it helps clear out blockages as a result of the oils, preventing clogged pores, and pimples.
Outdoor Spaces: Design Beyond Your Home’s Walls
I love summer, when my home seems to “grow” (no pun intended). The sunshine gives me the opportunity to take things outside, and utilize my outdoor living areas. My deck with its wrap around banquet seating, and my dining table under my gaze they just call to me when I’m at home in the summer!Think of all your outdoor spaces as additional rooms.Make a Small Space Feel LargeMany of us don’t have the luxury of a huge outdoor space. But, you can still make the space feel large. A good trick to create this illusion is to keep the colors both inside and out consistent and complementary. From the tones of your brick, to the flowers you plant.Avoid the Decorator Show House EffectWhat do I mean? This is when every room is a completely different look and color scheme. Itstops you abruptly, and spaces just don’t flow together. That doesn’t mean you should shy away from color. It’s okay to introduce a new color in a space, as long as it blends well with existing colors.Size Does Not MatterWhether your outdoor space is a little porch, a courtyard, or rolling acres — again, consistency is key. If you have a large space, try to create different “rooms” throughout your space. For example, you can separate your outdoor space into:Outside sitting areasWater featuresFire pitsThese “rooms” make people want to tour your outdoor home!Bring the Inside, OutsideWho says indoor furnishings have to stay inside? Weather permitting, I’ve used some of my indoor tables and chairs to set up for parties! There’s a lawn care commercial running on television that shows an entire living room set up on the front lawn. When the pizza delivery boy shows up, they ask him to remove his shoes before he enters their front gate! Get creative with the furniture you choose.Don’t Forget LightingJust as it does for indoor spaces, the right light can completely transform your outdoor space! I use lighting for my trees, architecture and sculptures. Tiki torches, even strung Christmas lighting hidden in my ground covers. I even have an outdoor chandelier with candles and clay flower pots as candle holders. Try a low bowl with floating flowers and candles as a table centerpiece. It doesn’t block people’s view and the warm glow makes everyone look fab. Nature’s own twinkling fireflies will also give your space a dreamy look! There is not limit to your outdoor lighting options.
How to pick the perfect swimsuit
Swimsuit season is upon us. Whether reading that sentence conjures images of playfully splashing in a pool or self-consciously tugging stretchy fabric into place, the fact is, it’s time to invest in a new suit—preferably one that you like and feel confident wearing. According to Anne Mayher, owner of the Greenville, South Carolina-based swimsuit boutique Splash on Main, the first step to finding your perfect swimsuit is putting aside your insecurity for a moment and focusing on the positive. “The secret to a great swimsuit is drawing the eye to your favorite parts of your figure,” she says. Here, Mayher shares expert advice on how to choose a swimsuit style that will fit well and highlight your best features.Create proportional balance. To play up—or down—a particular area, consider buying separates that don’t match perfectly to even out the visual balance. By breaking up patterns and colors, you can create an illusion of a more hourglass shape. If you’re wider in the hips than your upper body, you can make your bust appear wider with a bandeau top—especially one with ruffles or busy details—while not drawing attention to your hips with a darker, solid bottom. If you want to highlight your hips and draw attention away from your bust, consider buying a top in a dark solid and a bottom that is a bright solid or pattern or has a ruffle or skirted detail.Embrace the power of volume. A little extra material in just the right place can make all the difference. If you’re looking to enhance an area, such as the bust, choose a corresponding piece with ruffles. A tie-front bikini top will draw the eye to the chest as well. To camouflage or downplay an area, such as the waist, use shirred, gathered, or ruched fabric, which can be very forgiving in terms of fit.Learn how to break up length. If you have a long torso, the trendy, high-waisted look is a great fit for you. A one-piece swimsuit with cut-outs is another great option, as it will break up your midsection. If you are both tall and thin, consider a swimsuit with horizontal stripes to help break up the long vertical line of your figure.Keep it short and sweet. If you are petite, keep in mind that high-cut bottoms can make legs look longer and vertical stripes can visually lengthen the body, making these good traits to keep an eye out for in a swimsuit. You can also wear a solid bikini bottom with a printed top to draw the eye upward and give you a longer look. Avoid boy shorts and skirted bikinis as they draw the eye downward and can make you look shorter.Look sleek and chic. While black is very slimming, it is far from your only option if you’re seeking a suit that will make you appear more svelte. A swimsuit with dark, solid panels down each side of the torso and a floral or patterned middle can create a slimming effect, as can color blocking. A combination of abstract prints and subtle ruching is another great way to mask any areas you’d like to camouflage. In terms of cut, when looking for a one-piece swimsuit, try one with a deep plunging neckline.Think outside of the box. If you have an athletic build and want to create the illusion of curves, try swimsuits with chevron stripes angled downward toward the center front of your suit to create an optical illusion. Picking a swimsuit with ruffles or fringe can also create the appearance of a curvier figure.
The Best Skin Care Routine for Summer
Ah, sweet summertime! You made it past the snow shoveling and rain showers, and now you’re ready to revel in the warmth and sunshine of summer. Before you do that though, you should consider how the extra hours in the sun can impact your skin. Aside from the occasional summer sunburn, UV rays can also accelerate some common signs of skin aging like fine lines and wrinkles, age spots, and sagging skin. The increased humidity and temperature can contribute to other summer skin issues too, including extra oil and shine. All of these reasons are precisely why you’ll want to adjust your skin care routine during the summer months. Not quite sure what that should entail? Here, we’re sharing the best summer skin care routine. Keep reading to learn how to foster your most beautiful summer skin all season long by following the perfect regimen for the hot, sunny months ahead.
THE BEST SUMMER SKIN CARE ROUTINE
Without further ado, we’re walking you through creating a skin care routine for the hot summer months. Follow these tips for gorgeous, healthy skin even on summer’s hottest days.
SUMMER SKIN CARE TIP 1: Cleanse twice a day
When the air is hot and humid, your skin may be extra oily. And let’s be honest, you also may find that you sweat more during the summer compared to other seasons. If this is the case, you certainly won’t want to let all the excess oil and sweat linger on your skin day after day. So, the best skin care regimen to help keep summer skin matte, yet moisturized, should include cleansing twice daily with a foaming, mild facial cleanser.
SUMMER SKIN CARE TIP 2: Exfoliate with glycolic acid at night
Your summer skin can produce excess oil, but it can also look dry and dull if you don’t exfoliate regularly. And don’t think you’re limited to exfoliating with a face scrub; a chemical exfoliating peel pad formulated with glycolic acid can help slough away dead skin cells that can cause the look of dull, lackluster skin.
SUMMER SKIN CARE TIP 3: Apply a water-based moisturizer
During the sticky summer months, your complexion won’t need the heavy-duty moisturizer you use during the winter. Instead, use a lightweight, water-based moisturizer twice per day.
SUMMER SKIN CARE TIP 4: Layer on SPF
As you likely already know, SPF should be a staple in your summer skin care routine—no matter what skin type or skin care concerns you may have. Follow the Food and Drug Administration’s guidelines and apply a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF value of at least 15 every day. It’s also a must to reapply your sunscreen at least every two hours or after swimming or sweating. Of course, it’s important to protect your skin via other measures, too. Avoid the sun during its peak hours, seek out shade, and wear a broad-brimmed hat—just to name a few.
SUMMER SKIN CARE TIP 5: Try a self-tanner
Who doesn’t want glowing, sun-kissed skin during the summertime? We certainly do! However, soaking up too much sun just isn’t healthy for your skin. Rather than lay out, try applying a self-tanner for a faux glow. And don’t worry about ending up with an orange, streaky tan. With the right self-tanner, it’s easy (and quick) to achieve a natural-looking tan in no time. For a long-lasting tan courtesy of a lightweight formula.
SUMMER SKIN CARE TIP 6: Moisturize at night
In addition to your regular moisturizer, try using nourishing night cream before hitting the hay. Since you won’t want to slather on a heavy-duty cream during the daytime, taking this extra step can allow you to replenish moisture overnight.
6 OUTDOOR FURNITURE TRENDS OF 2020 – FOR ANY BUDGET
We tapped hundreds of design professionals to get their reads on this unique summer’s outdoor furnishing directions. For each, we’ve offered specific suggestions both pricey and affordable, so you can shop the trends no matter your means.
- House-Worthy Patio Pieces
The favourite outdoor trend is furnishings that appear to belong indoors. Improved materials and finishes make it possible to layer unpredictable pieces and to transcend expectations. Though sturdy teak furniture is a patio stalwart, brands have begun deftly integrating slivers of the wood into more sinuous forms made of other materials. For example, 1stdibs’s is a great source of things such as a Sandglass side table that features a teak top and powder-coated aluminum base, while West Elm’s Mexa design incorporates nylon cord. With their mixed finishes, these two seem to have escaped from a living room, yet both will stand up to the elements. - Watching the Weaves Change Colour
Paola Lenti produces a chair with a clever and unexpected blend of colour. For years, the only colour conversation in outdoor furniture was primary or pastel. Multihued weaves hammer the final nail in the safe-colour coffin. Ms. Lenti’s lounge comes in hundreds of colourways. Textiles, textures, colours and weaves allow for incredible personalisation,” says Ms. Lenti, “but also a vibrancy that promotes a sense of joy.” Of MoMA’s more accessibly priced new retro aluminum-framed folder, Amanda Lindroth, a designer based in the Bahamas, said, “It reminds me of childhood. Everyone carried those chairs to the beach and sat high up over the sand.” - For Love of the Flame
With our options for places to relax and recreate drastically curtailed, patios are increasingly becoming outdoor living rooms. If you add a heat source, those alfresco spaces can be enjoyed from early spring well into Autumn. Fire pits, already popular but newly relevant, let us escape to open-air seating areas that are an antidote to screen time, a source of calm and serenity, said Los Angeles-based landscape designer Patricia Benner. She favours designs of hardworking corten steel: “I love the weathered, earthy patina of the naturally oxidized finish.” Robert Plumb produces a popular range, while Design Within Reach’s line arrives assembled. - Dark Matters
Something traditional like wicker, usually found in natural or white, looks fresh and current in black,” said Stefan Beckman, whose design studio produces homewares under the label Lateral Objects. Of the almost-black nautical rope used to execute the weatherproof, it turns a classic wicker basket on its head. The affordable carryall designs suddenly popping up, meanwhile, let people cart interior accessories like cushions out to a terrace and back, another trend. “I keep baskets near our patio doors and bring them outside when needed,” said Joanna Leung, vice president at Ratana Outdoor Furniture. - Curvy, Cosy, Comfy
If you ask New York designer Keita Turner, the boom in bulbous, enveloping outdoor furniture might reflect our collective desire to return to the womb. Her other theory: People “are opting for an alternative to the boxy, clean, linear shapes” that have dominated the market in recent years. Judy Olson Dunne of New York’s Butter and Eggs Interiors concurs: “The shapes are interesting and typically very comfortable.” The concave seat of Ligne Roset’s new outdoor version of its 1965 modular Saparella Sofa (left) beckons like an adult cradle. Of the Repp Patio Sofa (right) with its tufted seat cushion, Ms. Turner said, “It could hardly be more inviting if it tried.” - So Long Fairy Lights
Experts have pulled the plug on string lights, which they think are overused and just too cutesy looking. Plus, you need to be wary of the unflattering glow of exposed-filament bulbs. Instead we will seek the grown-up glow of outdoor light fixtures with shaded fabrics, and randomly placed, low indirect lighting creating special moments and highlights.
Alluring Things You Must Know About Custom Bikinis
Without a doubt, custom made bikinis are excellent. Thanks to their look and the fact that they were made to suit you, you have a lot of advantages. However, here are a few things that you might not know about them:They are extremely sexyShopping or bikinis can be difficult, especially when you have a body type that is not conventional. Finding something that fits you and which works with your body might be difficult, and this is where custom bikinis come in. Due to the fact that they are ad with your body specifications being kept in cognizance, you can rest assured that these will give you the highest level of sexiness.They can also work as underwearCustom made bikinis are sexy, and they can definitely do their apart to ensure that they make you look absolutely beautiful. However, apart from their primary use as outfits for the beach and other related activities, they can definitely work as lingerie and underwear as well. They stay perfectly hidden and concealed under your clothes (although their ability to remain incognito even under your clothes depends largely on their color) and you can rest assured of their fit, due to the fat that they are custom madeThey can come in various materialsBikinis are available today in a wide array of materials; it’s only right that those that come custom made be the same thing. Whether you want a bikini set that is made of latex (far sexier) or cotton (just like it is with basically every underwear), the world is definitely your oysterThe maximize comfortWhen it comes to comfort, nothing does it better that clothes that are custom made and which have been made to fit the specifications of your body as well as your personal preferences. When made by a reputable and highly skilled manufacturer, you can rest assured that the comfort that you will get from a custom made bikini will be unmatched for sure.They actually aren’t really expensiveThere’s a common misconception that is pretty rampant in this generation; it is the thought that when something is custom made, it automatically is expensive.This is actually not entirely trueDepending on the manufacturer who makes it, custom made bikinis can actually be pretty cheap. One of the major advantages that people experience with custom made bikinis is the fact that they are able to offer re comfort (and a sense of ownership and exclusivity), all for basically the same price.
Designer outdoor furniture trends
It’s that time of year again when the first sight of tulips signals a move to the great outdoors just in time for High Point Furniture Market.Depending on your locale, the spring, summer and fall months provide an excellent climate for outdoor living. And as the trend of treating the outdoors as an extension of the house continues, home furnishings are stepping up to the plate with a variety of sophisticated and weather friendly fabrics, furniture and accessories.This High Point season Summer Classics incorporates customized outdoor rooms designed with relaxation and functionality in mind. Leading up to market we looked to a few of our favorite designers for tips on creating your own outdoor retreat.QualityTailoring your décor to complement the colors of nature, making space for dining and entertainment as well as a functional room layout are just a few of the main considerations when planning your exterior’s interior. “My number one piece of advice is to buy the best quality,” says Shay Geyer, owner and designer of IBB Design Fine Furnishings. “Well made outdoor furnishings have rigorous testing and high standards to ensure these pieces will withstand the outdoor elements. No one wants to replace the furniture once a year!” Based in Dallas, the designer notes, “In Texas, we have hot summers with intense sun. I always suggest looking for woven fabrics as printed fabrics often fade much faster. It’s important to read the light fast ratings and take into account if the fabrics will be sitting in direct sunlight or under a covered patio.”ColorWhen choosing color, the sky is literally the limit – no pun intended. Geyer notes that she “steers clear from boring beige as there are so many beautiful colors in nature to pull from to create a palette.” If you are poolside, the aqua and blue shades of water provide a variety of tones to choose from, particularly the classic blue and white palette which is on trend both indoors and out. “I also love black and white with punchy pops of color – think Palm Beach Chic,” details Geyer. She also advises the use of Sunbrella fabrics that are made to “take on the abuse of Mother Nature.”Summer Classics Creative Director, Chris Hutchens designed the High Point Showroom to be one of great serenity. “We’re keeping the colors neutral with some pops of vibrant jungle colors and beach tones,” Chris explains. “The overall feel is soothing. We want the showroom to feel like an escape from reality.”FunctionFunction obviously plays a key role in your design plan and entertainment is paramount and has recently been a major outdoor furniture trend in the industry. Pamela Kellogg of Costa Mesa, California based Designers Resource Collection details, “Gone are the days where there was one specified sitting are in the backyard. People desire to have more of an experience and are maximizing the use of their space to create more of an outdoor living area, full kitchens, cabanas and bars are being installed along with fireplaces and TV/entertainment units. And daybeds are being used in dedicated lounging areas lending to more of luxury type feel.”MaterialsMaterials are also key. Kellogg says her clients “Often wish they could have their outdoor design match their indoor décor. Well they can! There are so many amazing stylish options for furniture and accessories! Whether your style is traditional, modern or eclectic, there is something for everyone.”
The Ultimate Guide to Finding the Perfect Swimsuit
Summer is approaching, you are planning a vacation, but there is one thing you can’t seem to figure out: the type of swimsuit you should buy. Many options are available and though each one is beautiful, you think about what would be best for your shape, size and age, or what is trendy right now. If you are having trouble deciding, this little guide will help you.
Choose easily combined pieces
If you don’t have many swimsuits in your closet, you should buy practical ones that are easily combined. Monochromatic is the best way to go, with just the top or the bottom having a print. That way, you can mix and match it with some other swimsuit that you have. If you like the top but the bottom is high waisted and it is really not your thing, you can match the top with some other bottom and create your own perfect swimsuit.
Add a bit of eccentricity
Swimsuits are, of course, meant for holidays at the seaside, with long sandy beaches and the sun. Your holiday is the most fun time of the year so why not make your swimsuit the same? If you already have at least one swimsuit that is a bit simpler, then try going the opposite way. Choose one shoulder, ruffles, or play with the print and get one with stripes or polka dots. Bright and even neon colors are now in so if that is your thing, try it out. After all, you don’t have to worry because everything looks good on a tan body. Classics will always be trendy
If you are feeling confused by so many new trends and you don’t know what suits you, you should stick to the familiar. A triangle bikini will never go out of fashion and one reason is that it looks good on everyone. Since it has ties that are tied at the back of your neck, it will lift your breasts and make them look fuller if that is something you like. You can always untie them when you are sunbathing and avoid tan lines. Many triangle bikinis allow you to adjust the width of the triangle so you can create your own version of it. Play with the ties, cross them on your chest or your back and you will get a whole new look. Triangle bikinis are so versatile; it is no wonder they are always.
Accessorize every beach look
Every beach look, no matter how simple or eccentric it is, can be turned into something new and fun. Accessorizing your swimsuit is the best way to do this. Boho bikinis, for example, go with many bracelets, white nail polish, braids or even gold details. It will look chic and will photograph very well if that is something you like to do. A fun pair of sunglasses will also put the whole beach look together. You can go full pin-up and wear a headband, a polka dot bikini and big, red sunglasses. If you are naturally on the pale side, this will look great on you because it will create that retro vibe. One-piece swimsuits can be styled up with big sunglasses too and an even bigger hat. They are perfect for those rest days when you want to read a book by the water and just enjoy the sun.
Swimsuit for any occasion
Like any other piece of clothing, you should choose your bikini according to the occasion. For a simple day by the pool, classic designs are more suitable. You should save eccentricity and fashion for the beach. If you are going to a pool or beach party where there will also be food, choose a lace or see-through cover-up. You will look stylish and feel comfortable. Since social conventions still dictate our behavior, save the small swimsuits that don’t cover much for places where you know there will be mostly young people. But don’t worry, a swimsuit that covers a bit more can still look sexy and trendy. Playing around with different types of bikinis and choosing fun, unique ones is just one thing why we like summer. Hopefully, this guide can help you decide or inspire you and give you some ideas that you didn’t have.