8 common makeup mistakes to avoid
8 common makeup mistakes to avoid

Makeup application techniques have evolved over the years. And if you are a beginner trying makeup for the first time, there are chances you may end up making common mistakes in the process. This can range from not using the right shade of eye shadow, using the wrong brush, or even something as simple as misapplying the foundation. However, with the right products and a few makeup tips, one can achieve the perfect look with healthy glowing skin.

Over-washing the face
Washing or cleansing the face is one of the most important steps in the makeup application process. However, each person has a different skin type. Moreover, with age, the skin may undergo various changes. So, when one applies foundation and notices dry and flaky skin, it’s a sign of over-cleansing. Hence, experts suggest washing the face twice daily – morning and night. This process can help retain the skin’s moisture in the form of natural skin oils.

Skipping a skin preparation routine
One of the biggest makeup mistakes people make is applying makeup products directly on the skin. This can often make the face look cakey. Therefore, it is important to apply hydrating skin care products like moisturizer, serum, primer, and toner before makeup application. You can follow the cleansing-toning-moisturizing routine before going in with the makeup process. This can make the makeup application look good while maintaining skin health.

Applying makeup in the wrong lighting
Lighting is the key element while applying makeup or choosing the right products. It is important to test the products on the skin in natural lighting. Trying to buy makeup products in dim-lit stores can lead you to buy the wrong shade of products. A wrong shade of foundation can make your face look ashy, leaving a gray cast on the pigmented areas on the face. To prevent this situation, it is best to swatch the products in a natural light setup.

Using too much concealer
Concealers help to cancel out pigmented/dark areas like dark circles on the face. However, incorrect use of the right products or the right shade of concealer can highlight fine lines, darkness, and pigmented spots. Therefore, it is advised to use a small amount of the concealer on the under eyes and blend it well with your finger or a brush. If required, you can add another layer of the product. Ensure you set it with a translucent powder to prevent it from setting into fine lines. Additionally, experts suggest avoiding thick and creamy foundations or concealers and using liquid and hydrating options to achieve a healthy and natural look.

Ignoring the lips
Lips are one of the key focus points when it comes to makeup. Usually, as one begins to age, the upper lip begins to slowly thin and lose its natural color and shape. Hence, it is crucial to care for the lips as much as any other body part. Therefore, experts recommend exfoliating the lips with a gentle scrub at least once a week and regularly applying hydrating lip balms. In addition, one must also opt for colors close to the natural lip color for lipsticks, glosses, and lip liners to achieve the look of fuller lips. Avoid applying products on dry, chapped lips.

Not applying blush
Nowadays, most people prefer to skip the application of blush from their makeup routine. However, this proves to be one of the biggest mistakes resulting in duller-looking skin. In most cases, blush can instantly help one look youthful since its primary objective is to mimic a natural flush of color. However, one must make sure to choose a natural rosy color that complements the skin tone. So it is considered best to avoid blushes that are either too bright, powdery, or shimmery for a more natural look.

Using the wrong blending techniques
Buying the right shades of foundations, concealer, or eyeshadows is not enough. Just dabbing these products can make the face look unnatural and out of place. So, to avoid this common makeup mistake, one must blend the products properly, as the key to natural-looking makeup is in the art of blending. It’s recommended to watch a few tutorials and videos online to get a better idea of the process. Blending with the right set of tools is also essential. Therefore, invest in good-quality brushes and blenders.

Applying heavy mascara on the lashes
A top-quality mascara achieves the objective of accentuating the edges of the eyes, giving a sharp shape to the eyes. The heavy application of mascara can lead to clumpy eyelashes, leading to droopy-looking eyes. Some people may make the mistake of applying heavy mascara on both the top and bottom lashes. However, in most cases, heavy application of mascara can bring attention to the wrinkles below the eyes. Hence, it’s best to apply a single coat of mascara to achieve a natural and lifted eye look.

Apart from avoiding the above-mentioned makeup mistakes, one must also regularly follow a skincare regimen. Good skincare ensures healthy and glowing skin. This includes using the right moisturizer, toner, primer, and exfoliant regularly. One can also visit a dermatologist to learn more about tips and tricks for healthy skin.

  • Best theme parks in the US

    Going on a holiday with your family includes indulging in various activities that all the members of the family would enjoy. While most people like sightseeing or finding out more about the place that they are visiting, one will also have to take care of the needs of the children so that they remain entertained. Adventure sports and theme parks are some of the best ways in which the entire family can have fun together. There are a number of theme parks all over the country where one can have a good time and relax as a family. It is a misnomer that only children can have a good time at such places. Most theme parks in America give the entire family a chance to indulge in various activities that can be fun for all age groups. Read on to find out more about our pick of the top theme parks of the country.

    Disneyland: Walt Disney World, or Disneyland as it is popularly known, is one of the most magical places as per people who have been there! This is one of the best known theme parks that welcomes tourists from all over the world. Based on Florida, this theme park has been replicated in other parts of the world as well. One of the most popular attractions of this place includes the Magic Kingdom and Fantasy Land where castles of various Disney characters have been recreated. You can also enjoy beautiful fireworks at night along with various characters like Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, Peter Pan, Tinker Bell, Little Mermaid and many others!

    Epcot: This is a space station theme park in Florida, which caters to all age groups. At this theme park, the Mission: Space section is one of the most popular ones. This can be found in the Future World area, which is close to the World Showcase section. Apart from many futuristic rides, one can also enjoy world cuisine here. You can also test the limits of adrenaline by indulging in high speed efficiency tests for various vehicles and automobiles from around the world. Various kinds of innovations are showcased here, which makes it one of the most interesting and informative places as far as theme parks go.

    Universal Studios: This is yet another gem from Florida. At Universal Studios, one can enjoy the 3D world of movies as they come alive with much action and excitement. The various light, sound and visual effects will absolutely floor you each and every time. Recently, this studio has launched the World of Wizardry, which celebrates the popular Harry Potter series. This makes it one of the most entertaining theme parks in America where you can indulge in the magical world of the movies. Here, you can also find people parading as the biggest stars from the yesteryears and the modern times as well. Watch out for a number of live shows that play at this theme park.

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  • 4 foods that may help manage ulcerative colitis

    When the immune system misidentifies and targets good gut bacteria, the cells that line the colon, and food, it can lead to ulcerative colitis. The condition drives the white blood cells to attack the colon lining and trigger symptoms like irritation, inflammation, and ulcers in the large intestine. While ulcerative colitis is a chronic condition, adding certain foods to one’s meals and following some treatment options may help manage the condition.

    Foods for ulcerative colitis

    Nut butters
    A good source of proteins and healthy fats, nut butters like peanut butter, cashew butter, and almond butter may help manage any flare-up that may result from ulcerative colitis.

    Peeled and cooked veggies
    Peeled and cooked vegetables are soft and contain less insoluble fiber, making them less irritating to the gut. A few foods to consider are carrots, spinach, parsnips, turnips, and potatoes. The vegetables are abundant in nutrients like vitamins A and K, which can help reduce the effects of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), a type of ulcerative colitis.

    Yogurt
    Fermented foods like yogurt are rich in probiotics that contain healthy bacteria. Such bacteria aid the digestive system and reduce ulcerative colitis symptoms and flare-ups. But one must steer clear of flavored yogurt as its sugar content may worsen symptoms.

    Salmon
    Salmon is a rich source of protein and healthy omega-3 fatty acids. These properties are known to curb inflammation caused by ulcerative colitis. Other fish rich in omega-3s include shrimp and tuna.

    Treatments for ulcerative colitis
    Ulcerative colitis symptoms can be managed with certain treatment options, such as:

    STELARA® (ustekinumab)
    STELARA® is a prescription treatment for children who are six years and older and adults with moderate to severely active ulcerative colitis. Patients injected with the treatment may find quick relief from their symptoms within eight weeks.

    Entyvio® (vedolizumab)
    Adults with moderate to severe ulcerative colitis are given Entyvio when other treatment options do not work efficiently. The dosage is 300 mg infused intravenously over about 30 minutes as directed by the doctor.

    Remicade® (Infliximab)
    The treatment option has multiple purposes when it comes to managing ulcerative colitis. Remicade® (Infliximab) reduces the symptoms and maintains remission. The injection also boosts intestinal healing in adult patients with moderate or severe ulcerative colitis.

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  • 4 ways to find snow blowers and plows on sale

    The festive season is already round the corner, and like everyone else, you might also be interested in decorating your home. While festivity and long holidays are something that comes first to your mind, when speaking of winter, yet it is not all winter is about. Winter also brings snowfall, storms, and blizzards. Therefore, if you are looking for some fun in the winter, you should prepare yourself to ward off the adversities of weather in the best possible way. Check all your snow cleaning accessories and get a snow blower for sale if your old one is not functioning smoothly. Finding snow plow sale is simple these days. In case, you cannot find one on your own; you can check the steps mentioned below:

    Look for classifieds – You can look out for classified advertisements in your newspapers or check out the billboards on streets to learn about the snow blowers for sale. Visit the place of sale at the scheduled time and get one for your home or office at a discounted price. However, you need to be careful about the quality of the blowers you purchase as purchasing a defective piece will be a complete waste of money. Also check the snow plow prices carefully to calculate the discount.

    Check for online sales – In case, you cannot manage the time to visit the snow plow sale near you, visiting online stores can serve the purpose well. There are several portals, which offer snow plow sale on different brands. Check the snow plow prices in these discount portals to buy cheap snow plows. When you purchase from any online snow plow sale, you need to be careful about the brand of your choice. All brands do not offer the same performance, and it is always recommended to get your machinery from a reputed brand.

    Compare the prices – When you are looking for snow plow sale, it is important for you to compare the price charged by different stores. Check the snow plow prices offered by different stores on the models they have on sale. Compare them and place your order in a store, which offers the lowest price. It is also recommended for you to verify the authenticity of the store in this regard as some might try to scam customers by offering them attractive deals.

    Visit the official site of the manufacturer – Not only the third-party online stores but also the official portal of the manufacturer also offers snow plow sale at different times. Checking them out is also a good idea to get down the snowplow prices when you purchase.

    When looking for a snow blower for sale online, it is better to go to the stores offering free shipping.

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  • Things to remember when looking for senior apartments

    There are several seniors who prefer seniors apartments to living at homes. This can be because of difficulties at home or due to the fact that they prefer living independently. While there are several housing options out there today, it’s important to be careful before choosing one.

    Seniors often have to live on low pensions or their retirement fund. Many of them prefer low-income senior apartments as these housing facilities are more affordable. There are government funded and retirement communities that offer all required facilities for a low cost. There are also several low-income apartments out there that support independent living that seniors are seeking.

    However, before rushing into anything, there are a few things you need to check this low-income, affordable senior apartments.

    Verification And Certification
    Most senior apartments and staff present are verified prior to their employment. Safety is an important factor. Always ask for verification of the apartment and the employees there. Precaution always tends to pay off, since you want to make sure that the housing is safe and secure.

    Talk To The Neighbours
    The best way to ensure that they have all the facilities they claim to have is to ask the people that have been staying in the apartment for a while now. You can find out if they have any issues with maintenance or water problems before coming to any decision. This is also a great way to get to know the people around you as well. It’s important to maintain social connections.

    Experience
    Find out how long the housing been open. If it’s been around for a long time, check the condition of the apartment. If it is well maintained, you won’t have much to worry about.

    Besides, facilities that have more expertise in senior care are guaranteed to provide better comfort to seniors. They have a better idea of what elders need.

    Cleanliness
    It will take you less than a minute to gauge the state of the apartment. Since a majority of senior houses are maintained by housekeeping, you can tell if they’re doing a good job or not. Cleanliness is a very important factor. It plays a crucial role in the health of seniors.

    Security
    Most apartments today have security guards. They also install security cameras around the premises. Besides serving the purpose of keeping the tenants safe, they’re a great way to check if any of the senior citizens need help.

    Cost
    Most senior apartments have low rentals and are hence affordable. Several facilities are known to increase the rent a few months after tenants move in. You can check with other senior apartments in the surrounding areas to ensure you’re paying a fair price.

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  • How to get make up for free!

    The idea of getting free makeup is a very intriguing. Imagine getting your favorite or the latest products to try out without actually doling out some moolah. You end up saving money and experimenting for free! Free samples are also easy to carry during travelling, and most importantly, if you’re in love with a certain product then a free sample pack is just the icing on the cake.

    Most companies today come out with free samples. It is a very effective marketing strategy which they indulge in the hope that one would end up buying the product. However, the best part about trying out makeup samples mean that it lets you have a run-through of all kinds of cosmetics the high-end makeup choices as well as drugstore cosmetics.

    As of today, acquiring beauty samples for free is not a big deal because it’s easily available by email or at the stores.
    – There are websites, which provide free samples through emails every day. There are few common products whose samples are available online. One can get free samples every month from online beauty retailers just by paying postage fee or signing up or subscribing for getting their emails.
    – If one doesn’t wish to subscribe online, the other best way to collect them is from cosmetic department stores where they have a wide range of free samples. The fact of the matter is that any store that markets and sells makeup products will definitely have free samples because they want the free samples to convert into a sale later.
    – Some stores let you join their makeup trials. Often, the trials are free and are usually surveys that are conducted by cosmetic brands. You are free to put down your suggestions, which would later help them improve their products. The ‘PF buzz program’ is even more interesting. Through the Physician Formula, one can get their brand new cosmetic products to try and keep them with you after the trial.
    – Some cosmetic biggies such as Sephora have free events that you can attend to get free samples. In the past, they’ve given away free samples of eyeshadow, mascara, lipstick, and eyeliner during these events.
    – If you’re a member of any particular buyer program of certain products, you’ll also be able to rack up points each time you buy something online. You can exchange and redeem these points for product sets, special collectibles and deluxe samples.

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  • 5 natural and alternative ways to treat COPD

    Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or COPD is the third leading cause of death in the United States today. This respiratory disease is caused due to an abnormal inflammation of the lungs resulting in restricted air flow and hence the difficulty in breathing. Spiriva is a bronchodilator drug commonly used to treat this condition. However, it has some side effects and is not often recommended for patients with glaucoma or enlarged prostate. Fortunately, though, some Spiriva alternatives are available in the market today and can be taken after consulting a physician. You can also change your lifestyle and food habits to keep the condition under control to some extent.

    Spiriva is a bronchodilator drug commonly used to treat this condition. However, it has some side effects and is not often recommended for patients with glaucoma or enlarged prostate. Fortunately, though, some Spiriva alternatives are available in the market today and can be taken after consulting a physician. You can also change your lifestyle and food habits to keep the condition under control to some extent.

    Spiriva alternatives often include simple home remedies or lifestyle changes too. These can keep your condition under control and prevent sudden flare-ups. Here are some tips to follow:

    • Quit smoking: This is the most important and natural way to treat COPD. Avoid any kind of smoking including electronic cigarettes and vapes.
    • Improve your breathing: You can adopt several techniques to improve your breathing. The American Association for Respiratory Care suggests that pursed-lip breathing and diaphragmatic breathing may increase your blood oxygen levels and help reduce shortness of breath.
    • Maintain a healthy diet: Your diet must include plenty of fresh vegetables and fruits to ensure that you get lots of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Include citrus fruits, fishes, chia seeds and flaxseeds in your diet.
    • Drink lots of water: Drink at least eight glasses of water per day. Water helps to dilute the mucus trapped in your airways, which is the main reason for persistent coughing.
    • Eucalyptus oil: According to a study, cineole, the main constituent of eucalyptus oil, reduces exacerbations and dyspnea in people with COPD. It also improves lung function.
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  • Fibromyalgia arthritis: tips for better sleep

    In addition to struggling with the fibromyalgia symptoms of aches, joint pain, and dizziness, patients of this condition also need to cope with insomnia, sleeplessness, and sleep disorders. While the easiest way to overcome this symptom would be to take sleeping pills to get a restful sleep, this may not be the best option, as these may have side-effects like addiction to the pills. Some tips that you could use to get a more restful sleep at night without the aid of pills are:

    • Exercise: Exercise is extremely effective in relieving symptoms of fibromyalgia. You can decide on the intensity of the exercise according to your level of fitness. An hour of good exercise which stimulates your brain and body will result in your body wanting a good night’s rest.
    • Meditation and relaxation: Fibromyalgia symptoms can take a toll on your body and leave you too exhausted to rest. A good session of meditation and relaxation coupled with exercises which help in regulating your breathing can get you ready for a good night’s sleep.
    • Using herbal teas and hot drinks: The characteristic Fibromyalgia burning pain can be relieved by drinking tea infused with herbs which can help in reducing the pain.
    • Schedule: Maintain a schedule for sleep. As silly as it may sound, it is beneficial. Keeping a schedule and going to sleep at the same time every night can trick your brain into submission. Getting into bed at the same time each night whether you get that restful sleep or not may be the most demanding thing to do but the regimen will help you to get there eventually. Fibromyalgia symptoms can be draining, but for your body to repair and heal itself and to be prepared for the strain of the next day, you need a good night’s rest. This is achievable without the use of medication.

    Sleep is probably the most underrated therapies for pain. Most people are not aware that their body repairs and heals itself while they sleep. Therefore, to relieve the fibromyalgia symptoms, restful sleep should be of utmost priority.

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  • How to reduce risk with tax diversification

    Tax diversification is a financial term that refers to the allotment of investment money to two or more accounts. It is similar to an asset location which refers to transferring of investment money to numerous account types, and finding the best investment type that work best in those accounts. Taxable accounts and tax-deferred accounts are the two basic types of investment accounts. When the taxpayer invests that money in a taxable account, the money invested will not be tax- deductible nor it would raise tax deferrals, rather they would tax on shares and capital benefits when the investment is sold at a higher price.

    Tax analysis of different income brackets
    There are wide categories of income in terms of tax analysis as it connects to retirement, this needs to be understood for perceiving tax diversification. There are incomes such as tax-free, fully taxable, earned income, partially taxable, tax favored and other incomes like rental, pension, non-lifetime annuity etc. These are considered as different money brackets and the idea is to identify income from each bracket to reform the tax situation. Most of the time you may get the chance to manage your income to reduce tax. Basically, while you work, you get your salary and then you pay taxes, but a similar pattern is not observed during your retirement period. This is because they have brought the new withdrawal systems from 401(k)s, 403(b)s and IRAs, where you are offered with the liberty to organize the income you receive.

    The best tax schedules
    At the time, you overshoot the deductible amount you are in the 10% bracket which is up to $18,650, then you are 15% bracket which is up to $75,900. Filling the first two brackets with income would be the best tax strategy. The income can be received in different ways, and usually the timing for it cannot be completely anticipated but you can control the retirement withdrawals. It is better to do tax planning in November and December when you have a clear idea of what you would receive as income. You can also refer the previous year tax returns as a beginning step. Once the first two brackets are filled it is important to look for other sources on income that are less taxable. There is one complication in tax planning, i.e. the social security’s taxation, Medicare payments and taxation of long term capital gains could get stricken by the level of income you receive. When you have more brackets to draw from you will have the flexibility in planning and controlling your taxable amount. Tax diversification is something that you should focus on in your 20’s to 40’s as they take long period to develop. You should plan early as tax diversification can immensely benefit you in the long run.

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