10 Great Investment Banks To Work For In 2016

In the world of high finance, not all investment banks are equal. That fact holds true regarding their revenue, of course, but also as work environments.


In such a high-pressure industry, it’s important to know what current and former employees have to say about firms before you choose which you’d like to pursue for a career. To that end, each year career information site, Vault.com, conducts a study of those in the industry to find out which banks are great to work for—their positives as well as their shortcomings.

Recently Vault released the results of its latest survey, ranking the top 50 based on the testimony of some 3,000 bankers. The company asked for feedback on categories like prestige, culture, compensation, business outlook, satisfaction and training. We folded the results of the top 10 into a special slideshow which you can read below.

Karsten Strauss ,  FORBES STAFF
A journalist covering leadership, business, entrepreneurs and careers.

Vault.com recently unveiled its ranking of the best investment banks to work for, based on prestige, culture, compensation and other factors. (Image Credit: Shutterstock)

In the world of high finance, not all investment banks are equal. That fact holds true regarding their revenue, of course, but also as work environments.

In such a high-pressure industry, it’s important to know what current and former employees have to say about firms before you choose which you’d like to pursue for a career. To that end, each year career information site, Vault.com, conducts a study of those in the industry to find out which banks are great to work for—their positives as well as their shortcomings.

Recently Vault released the results of its latest survey, ranking the top 50 based on the testimony of some 3,000 bankers. The company asked for feedback on categories like prestige, culture, compensation, business outlook, satisfaction and training. We folded the results of the top 10 into a special slideshow which you can read below.

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10 Great Investment Banks To Work For In 2016
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According to the results of Vault.com’s survey, the top tier includes some large well-known firms, as well as some relatively new ones.

One firm that cracked the top 3 this year was Centerview Partners. Based in New York City, the decade-old firm was founded by UBS Vice Chairman Blair Effron and former Wasserstein Perella CEO Robert Pruzan. According to the feedback Vault received from employees of the organization, working there offers “great analyst camaraderie and helpfulness; other analysts are smart, hardworking, and happy to help out where possible.” The M&A focus provides ample opportunities to learn about that side of the finance realm and compensation is, according to one employee, the “highest compensation on the Street—by a wide margin.”

On the downside, the work is intense. As one employee was quoted: “Very demanding and unpredictable hours—when things get busy, they get very, very busy.” Also, there are no formal policies surrounding work-life balance and the firm is largely unknown in the broader industry.

Ranking number two on Vault’s list is well known finance power Morgan Stanley. Respondents to the survey lauded the firm’s intelligent workers, top tier clients, development opportunities and prestige. On the downside, they point to the high pressure, long hours, and the office politics and slow-moving decision making that is possibly a side effect of the organization’s size. They also decry the Times Square location.

The top spot on Vault’s list – up from number two last year – is Goldman Sachs. Those in the know spoke out about the firm’s demanding hours, stress-inducing workload and political red tape. On the plus side, one employee said those on the GS team are “working with the brightest, most talented, and hardest working people in the industry—both at the firm and at our clients.” Others pointed out the firm nurtures a “collaborative, inclusive, innovative culture,” and offers great opportunities to learn and advance.

Finding the Best Mortgage Rates in 2017

Buying a home may be the biggest and most important financial decision of your life, and will likely require a mortgage to fund the purchase. As home-buying technology has progressed, the process of finding the best mortgages rates can all be done online – with handy instruments like the mortgage calculator tool below. This sort of calculator is a good way to familiarize yourself with the mortgage market in your area – the types, terms and rates available.




Ah, but knowing the numbers is just Step One. You should also understand what influences them and whether they represent a good deal for you, or not. So after you calculate, read on to understand the different categories of mortgages, plus some shopping tips on how to snag a quality loan.

Finding The Best Mortgages with Our Calculator
The calculator comprises multiple factors to help you narrow the options best suited for your specific needs. You can compare payments between short and long contracts, evaluate a lower initial interest rate on an adjustable-rate mortgage (“ARM”) versus a more traditional fixed-rate option, or whether an interest-only (“I-O”) mortgage makes the most sense for you.

Below is a list of terms you're likely to encounter as you use the mortgage calculator:

Credit Score: The credit score is the numeric expression of a person’s creditworthiness.

Location: You must select the state in which the mortgage will be taken out, and then narrow the location by either the closest city or ZIP code.

Loan Amount: This would be the equivalent of the estimated value of the home or the remaining balance on your incumbent mortgage that you would like to refinance.

Mortgage Points: A mortgage point is equal to one percent of the total amount of a mortgage. There are two types of points: discount points, which represent prepaid interest on a mortgage; and origination points, which are a fee the mortgage lender may charge a borrower.

Percent Down: Also known as a down payment, or an initial payment made when something is bought on credit.

Products: The type of mortgage you are interested in, such as a traditional fixed-rate mortgage, an ARM, or an I-O mortgage. The ARM option shows a ratio such as "7/1”, which represents the number of years the mortgage carries a fixed interest rate. After the pre-set number of years (in this case, 7), the interest rate adjusts once a year (the 1) for the remaining term of the loan, according to three factors: the level of the index that the mortgage is tied to, such as the LIBOR; the ARM Margin established at the onset of the loan; and the Mortgage Cap.

Purchase or Refinance: Purchase mortgages are used to finance the purchase of a home. Refinances are used to replace an older loan with a new loan offering better terms, for a fee.

Types of Mortgages: Can You Get the Best Rate?
Depending on factors such as your credit score, employment history and debt-to-income ratio, the calculator may have come up with – and a lender may offer you – a prime rate mortgage, a subprime mortgage or something in between, called an “Alt-A” mortgage. Let’s take a quick look at the different mortgage categories and see what affects what you qualify for.

Prime Mortgages
Prime mortgages meet the quality standards set forth by Fannie Mae (the Federal National Mortgage Association) and Freddie Mac (the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation), the two government-sponsored enterprises that provide a secondary market in home mortgages by purchasing loans from originating lenders. According to the Federal Reserve, a prime residential mortgage is “a mortgage for a borrower whose credit scores are 740 or higher, whose debt-to-income ratios are lower than average and whose mortgage features the standard amortization schedule common to a fixed-rate or an adjustable-rate mortgage.”

Candidates for prime mortgages also have to make a considerable down payment – typically 10% to 20% – on the residence, the idea being that if you’ve got skin in the game you’re less likely to default. Because borrowers with better credit scores and debt-to-income ratios tend to be lower risk, they are offered the lowest interest rates – currently about 4% for a 30-year fixed rate mortgage – which can save tens of thousands of dollars over the life of loan.

Subprime Mortgages
Subprime mortgages are offered to borrowers who have lower credit ratings and FICO credit scores below about 640, though the exact cutoff depends on the lender. Because of the increased risk to lenders, these loans carry higher interest rates – such as 8% to 10%.

There are several kinds of subprime mortgage structures. The most common is the adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM), which charges a fixed-rate “teaser rate” at first, then switches to a floating rate, plus margin, for the remainder of the loan. An example of an ARM is a 2/28 loan, which is a 30-year mortgage that has a fixed interest rate for the first two years before being adjusted. While these loans often start with a reasonable interest rate, once they switch to the higher variable rate the mortgage payments increase substantially.

Alt-A Mortgages
Alt-A mortgages fall somewhere in between the prime or subprime categories. One of the defining characteristics of an Alt-A mortgage is that it is typically a low-doc or no-doc loan, meaning the lender doesn’t require much (if any) documentation to prove a borrower’s income, assets or expenses. This opens the door to fraudulent mortgage practices, as both lender and borrower could exaggerate numbers in order to secure a larger mortgage (which means more money for the lender and more house for the borrower). In fact, after the subprime mortgage crisis of 2007-08, they became known as “liar loans,” because borrowers and lenders were able to exaggerate income and/or assets to qualify the borrower for a bigger mortgage.

While Alt-A borrowers typically have credit scores of at least 700 – well above the cutoff for subprime loans – these loans tend to allow relatively low down payments, higher loan-to-value ratios and more flexibility when it comes to the borrower’s debt-to-income ratio. These concessions enable certain borrowers to buy more house than they can reasonably afford, increasing the likelihood of default. That being said, low-doc and no-doc loans can be helpful if you actually have a good income but can’t substantiate it because you earn it sporadically (for example, if you’re self-employed).

Because Alt-As are viewed as somewhat risky (falling somewhere between prime and subprime), interest rates tend to be higher than those of prime mortgages but lower than subprime – somewhere around 5.5% to 8%, depending on the lender and the borrower’s situation. See Alt-A Mortgages: How They Work.

Getting the Best Possible Mortgage Deal
Obviously, the higher the interest rate, the more you pay each month, and the more you ultimately pay for your home. To compare, let’s take a look at a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage for $200,000.

At the prime rate – 4% in this example – your monthly payment would be $955. Over the life of the loan, you would pay $143,739 in interest – so you’d actually pay back a total of $343,739.

Now assume you get the same 30-year fixed rate mortgage for $200,000, but this time you are offered a subprime rate of 6%. Your monthly payment would be $1,199, and you’d pay a total of $231,677 in interest, bringing the total amount you pay back to $431,677. That seemingly small change in interest cost you $87,938.

What’s important to realize is this: Just because a lender offers you a mortgage with an Alt-A or subprime rate doesn’t mean you wouldn’t qualify for a prime-rate mortgage with a different lender. Lenders and mortgage brokers may be competitive, but they generally are under no obligation to offer you the best deal available. It’s well worth the effort to shop around: Taking the time to find a better interest rate can save you tens of thousands of dollars over the course of a loan.

Tips for Finding The Best Mortgage Rates
This is not the time to let somebody else do the shopping for you. As we saw just now, the terms you get can make a sizable difference in what you pay to borrow the same amount of money.

How do you avoid paying more than you need to for your mortgage? Certainly, compare the offers you get by running them through your online mortgage calculator to see what your payments and interest will be. And as you do – or even before you do – follow the steps below.

1. Start Preparing Early

If you’re looking for a home right now, getting your finances in great shape may be tough. So try to think ahead; maybe even postpone house-hunting until you can clean your financial house.

In general, you need outstanding credit. (See What Is A Good Credit Score?) Before you’re even considered for a mortgage, conventional lenders will look for a credit score of at least 700 and, as we said above, one of 740 for a prime rate mortgage. FHA loans come with more relaxed standards, but more stringent conditions. So do what you can to get that score up by paying off those credit card balances and other personal debts, to the extent you can.

Even a 20-point difference in your score could move your rate up or down more than 0.25%. On a $250,000 home, one-quarter of a point could mean an extra $12,000 or more paid in interest over the life of the loan.

Second, save up! The more you can put down, the lower your mortgage payment and the less interest you’ll pay over time. A higher down payment could even mean a lower interest rate. Coming up with a 30% down payment (vs. the conventional 20%), for example, could drop your rate more than 0.5%.

2. Don’t Look at the Interest Rate Alone

The interest rate is important, but there’s more to compare. Is there a prepayment penalty if you decide to refinance at some point? What are the total closing costs? Closing costs generally amount to 2% to 5% of the price of the home. If your home costs $150,000, expect to pay $3,000 to $7,500 in costs. That’s a big range, so it behooves you to see what a lender typically charges.

3. Understand PMI

Though they do count towards the overall cost of your mortgage, closing costs are a one-time hit. But there's another bite that keeps on biting. If your down payment is less than 20%, you’re considered higher risk, and required to carry PMI, or private mortgage insurance. This makes you a safer bet for the lender; trouble is, you're the one paying for it, to the tune of 0.5% to 1% of the entire loan each year. That can add thousands of dollars to what it costs to carry the loan. If you do end up having to pay for PMI, make sure it stops as soon as you've gained enough equity in your house through your mortgage payments to be eligible (see How To Get Rid Of Private Mortgage Insurance).

4. Lock and Load

Let’s say you get the most amazing mortgage deal. Congratulations, but move fast. The interest rate – and possibly other conditions – are locked in for a set amount of time. You have to close within the lock period or risk losing the deal. Don’t procrastinate.

The Bottom Line
Most of the work involved in getting the lowest mortgage rate happens long before you’re ready to apply. A stellar credit score and a sizable down payment are the best ways to lower your rate.

But don’t blindly trust your bank, realtor or mortgage broker to get you the best terms. They may have a financial incentive to steer you in a certain direction. Do your own shopping, mortgage calculating and comparing. Also, remember that just because you qualify for X amount of mortgage, there’s nothing that says you have to borrow that much.

Shopping for Mortgage Rates

If buying a home might be the largest single investment you ever make, the mortgage you need to finance it will probably be the biggest debt you ever assume. A mortgage is a long-term financial obligation, and the mortgage rate you pay substantially affects the overall cost of your new residence. A 0.5% difference in interest rates (which determines the size of your monthly payments), for example, can save or cost you tens of thousands of dollars over the life of a loan.

So, it makes financial sense to shop around for the lowest rate you can qualify for. Here are the six steps to take.

1. Get Your Credit Score
Lenders will use your credit score to help determine if you qualify for a loan and what rate you'll be charged. In general, the higher your credit score, the better the terms you'll be offered. It's a good idea to get a copy of your credit report at least six months before you plan on obtaining a mortgage so you have time to find and fix any errors (your own credit inquiry should not count against your credit score).

Once you start shopping, each lender you contact will want to pull your report. While you may have heard that it will lower your credit rating each time a lender makes an inquiry, credit agencies recognize that mortgage-related queries result in a single loan (and not multiple new lines of credit), so they'll cut you some slack – provided you can do your loan-hunting within a focused period. The FICO score, for example, disregards multiple inquiries when they happen within a 45-day window; other agencies have a 14-45 day window.

2. Consider Mortgage Types
Before you shop, determine how much you want to borrow, which type of mortgage you want and how long a term you need so that you can fairly compare lenders. Mortgages fall into two basic types: government-backed and conventional.

Conventional loans, which represent around 65% of all mortgages issued, are offered by private lenders (thrift institutions, commercial banks, mortgage companies and credit unions); depending on their size and criteria, they may also be guaranteed by the federally-sponsored agencies Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.
Government-backed loans are also obtained through private lenders, but they are insured, either completely or partially, by the U.S.. government. These typically have less rigid borrowing requirements with low down payments, lower credit expectations, and more flexible income requirements. However, they must be the borrower's primary residence and must be owner-occupied (no investment or rental properties). Aimed at first-time or low-income buyers – though anyone can apply – the best-known of these mortgages are FHA loans, backed by the Federal Housing Administration.
Also to consider: what the nature of the financing you want. Again, these fall into two basic categories:

Fixed-rate mortgage. A fixed-rate (or "plain vanilla") mortgage is a loan that has a set – that is, the same – rate of interest for the entire term, allowing you to spread out the costs of your home purchase over time while making predictable payments each month. Fixed-rate loans are ideal for buyers who have steady sources of predictable income and who intend to own their homes for extended periods of time.
Adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM). An adjustable-rate mortgage (also called variable-rate or floating-rate) is a loan with an interest rate that changes periodically, usually in relation to an index. The introductory or teaser rate is often lower than the rate available on a fixed-rate mortgage, but the rate may change at any time after the introductory period, resulting in sometimes sizable increases in your monthly mortgage payment. Adjustable-rate loans are typically the recommended option for buyers who anticipate declining interest rates (to avoid being locked into a higher rate), who plan on living in the home for a limited number of years or who expect to pay off the loan before the interest-rate adjustment period is reached.
3. Contact Several Lenders
Shop online, by phone or in person. To find lenders and look up rates, try our mortgage calculator tool:

Keep in mind that loan officers get paid off of the transaction that you make. That doesn't make loan officers bad people; it just means that you should do a little work on your own to make sure you understand the full variety of available options in the marketplace and the pros and cons of each of them.

You can also work with a mortgage broker who, for a fee, finds a lender for you and arranges the transaction (note: brokers will contact multiple lenders on your behalf, but they are not obligated to find the best deal for you unless they are under contract to act as your agent). They are also paid a fee by the lender in exchange for bringing business to that lender. Some financial institutions act as both lenders and brokers; it's important to find out if the institution is getting a broker involved – so ask if you're unsure.

4. Add in the Additional Costs
The lowest advertised interest rate you find may not necessarily be the best option: You have to look at fees, since they can significantly drive up the overall cost of a mortgage. In general, a mortgage with higher fees will have a lower interest rate, but it's important to ask about loan origination or underwriting fees, broker fees, and settlement or closing costs. Some fees are paid when you apply for a loan (i.e.., the application and appraisal fees), while others are settled at closing. Ask the lender which fees you will be charged and what each fee covers. Ask not just about immediate ones, but potential ones down the road, like prepayment penalties.

Points are fees paid to the lender (or broker) and are typically linked to the interest rate: The more points you pay, the lower your interest rate. One point costs 1% of the loan amount and reduces your interest rate by about 0.25%. To find out how much you'll actually end up paying, ask for points to be quoted as a dollar amount instead of just the number of points. In general, people who plan on living in a home for a long time (10 or more years) should consider points to keep interest rates lower for the life of the loan. Paying a lot of money up front for points may not be worth it if you plan on moving in a shorter amount of time.

5. Negotiate
By law, lenders are obligated to provide a Good Faith Estimate (GFE) of the total closing costs associated with a mortgage, including information about total monthly expenses (seeing the out-of-pocket dollar amount per month can be a highly useful and understandable way to compare costs). Some loan programs require mortgage insurance premiums for all applicants regardless of down payment amount, and this information is listed on a GFE for easy comparison. GFEs require lenders to accept the loan application as long as the applicant meets the criteria provided by the lender. This document is not a loan offer, but it does obligate the lender to accept the applicant under the terms listed if the applicant has the available funds and credit approval required. Generally, part of the application information will be validated before the lender will offer a GFE. GFEs provide a way for the applicant to review a summary of the financial terms of a mortgage loan and compare offers from multiple lenders and multiple loan programs. This document does not require the applicant to apply for a loan and does not obligate the applicant to anything besides the provision of truthful information.

Once a lender has made you an offer, you may be able to bargain for better terms. Ask the lender to write down all the costs associated with the loan – interest rate, fees, points – and then find out if it will waive or reduce any of the fees or offer you a lower interest rate (or fewer points). If you are already a client of the lender's, definitely make that known – or ask if doing other business with them would make a difference. Bank of America Corporation, for example, offers reduced fees based on the amount a customer keeps in a Bank of America banking or Merrill Lynch investment account.

You can also get a little competitive spirit going, asking if the lender will match the terms than you've found elsewhere. Mortgage companies are constantly battling one another for the finite business out there. Particularly during down markets when fewer buyers are there for the taking, lenders frequently slash fees to get customers on board. A customer who shops around with multiple lenders and lets each know it is competing with several others stands a good chance of paying lower mortgage fees than a customer who does business with the first lender that calls.

Once you are happy, ask for a written lock-in that includes the rate you agreed upon, the number of points (if any) to be paid the period and the period the lock-in lasts. Most lenders charge a non-refundable fee for locking in the interest rate and points, but given the speed bumps that can occur on the road to approval, it may well be worth it.

6. Get It in Writing
Once you decide to go with a lender, finish the application and obtain a pre-approval letter. This is much more thorough than a GFE – but more of a commitment as well. Pre-approval is only given after all income verifications, credit checks, funding is secured, and all necessary information has been validated and accepted by the lender. Pre-approval letters are offers to loan money and are legally binding upon the lender; they can be revoked or substantially changed only if the borrower does not meet the full terms of the agreement to loan. A potential buyer having a pre-approved mortgage provides the seller and other interested parties with official proof of the mortgage offer and intent of the lender to loan money. This document allows the purchase or refinance of property to move forward.

Picking the Best Rate
Even before you actually contact any lenders, you can get a sense of what they're offering via a digital search and the use of a mortgage rate calculator (see Finding the Best Mortgage Rates). Interest rates fluctuate, and different lenders may offer promotions for certain loan products. To keep the comparisons apples to apples, provide each lender with the same information and make sure you are asking about the same loan: for example, a $250,000 30-year fixed-rate mortgage with no points.

Remember to compare the total dollar amounts of different-length terms, too. A 15-year mortgage may have a higher interest rate and monthly payments, but cost significantly less in the long run than a 30-year, because you've paid off the debt a decade and a half earlier.

Picking the Best Lender
The key items to consider when selecting a mortgage lender are costs and service. Understanding the terms of your loan (the amount of the monthly payment, the number of years until it's paid off, the interest rate, fees, whether or not a penalty is accessed if you pay off the loan early) will provide insight into the various costs. Conversations with your prospective lender or mortgage broker and a review of the good faith estimate the lender provides will enable you to make a reasonable comparison.


On the service side, getting your questions answered in a timely and accurate way is an important element of the process. Applying for a loan requires quite a bit of paperwork as well as the collection and dissemination of a significant amount of personal information. Having a single, reliable point of contact for your questions can make the difference between a smooth, easy process and a tough experience.

Having the loan ready in time for your closing is another important consideration. Final documentation is often unavailable until days or even hours before the closing, and coordinating the schedules of the various parties involved in the transaction can be a challenge. A dependable lender will help to keep everything on track and on time and make a significant contribution to your personal peace of mind.

Although dealing with someone in person is usually preferable, you might save money by using an online lender. In theory, because online lenders have lower overhead, they can pass on the savings to consumers in the form of lower interest rates and fees. But you still need to comparison shop – don’t make the mistake that nearly half of regular mortgage borrowers make and only get a quote from a single lender. And an online lender might not be right for you if you need a lot of hand-holding during the process.

Studying a company's history, its pricing and the prevailing sentiment of previous customers provides a glimpse into whether that lender deserves to loan you money.

Mistakes To Avoid When Choosing A Skin Care Clinic

As of now, there are numerous issues that may ruin or damage the skin. Of course, damaged skin can affect one's looks, health, and even confidence. Luckily, there are different types of skin care products that can help protect the skin, but these skin products cannot suffice the needs of the skin. So, the best option in order to make the skin better is to visit skin care clinics and opt for their services. Sadly, when choosing such clinics, individuals make mistakes which can affect their finances and needs. To avoid these, below are the common mistakes individuals make when choosing a skin care clinic.
Opting for the first clinic you visit

One of the most common mistakes individuals make in choosing skin clinics is they usually opt for the first clinic they visit. Surely, receptionists will talk about the benefits of their services which can be very enticing. However, it is still best to look for other clinics. This is vital to ensure that you can look for the best services you need.

Not checking their facility and equipment

Another mistake individuals make with regard to skin care clinics is they rarely check the facility and equipment since some individuals think that all clinics are the same. However, reliable skin care clinics can provide better facilities and equipment since they invest in reliable devices to provide better treatments for their clients.

Not asking about treatment procedures

When it comes to skin treatments, there are different procedures experts use. So, it is also essential to ask about the treatment procedures. When asking about their procedures, you can determine how long their treatments are. Individuals can have better insights if their treatments are safe.

Neglecting skin care experts

Apart from facilities and procedures, individuals must not neglect the expertise of the skin care specialists. This is important since treatments will not be successful without proper knowledge. So, check the credibility of the specialist. Ask about their educational background and even seminars they attended regarding skin treatments.

Opting for low rates

Lastly, never choose clinics solely for its price. Individuals can easily find clinics that offer low prices, but it is even harder to find clinics that provide reliable treatments at affordable prices. Thus, spend time to assess their rates and services.

By knowing all these, individuals can find the ideal skin care clinic that can provide them with the best services to make their skin better and healthier.

Click here for more.

Medical Village is a company that offers the best skin improvement services. The company also has skilled professionals who can make your skin more appealing.

How to: Get Glowing Skin

Hi - I want to talk to you today about glowing skin and exfoliation of your dead skin cells! My favorite skin care product is an exfoliant.

I strongly believe that the best thing you can do for your skin is to exfoliate - to remove dead cells.

My favorite exfoliating product is a microdermabrasion paste. The jar of the product I use will last beyond the recommended 2 months. My jar lasts around 4 - 6 months.

Why does it last so long?

Because you will not need a lot of the product to get results. Using a small amount of the microdermabrasion product just works.

Why do you need an exfoliant?
As you age, the dead cells do not turn over as easily. I'm 49, and I found out that getting rid of these types of cells is harder than it use to be!

Have you noticed that your skin is dull and not as glowing?

Your face may look dull because you have dead cells that are not sloughing off as easily anymore. By exfoliating, you will remove the dead cells that will bring a glow to your face! By removing the dead cells, your skin underneath will look younger too.

Another Fact About Dead Skin (pretty yucky fact)

The majority of dust in your house is dead skin cells. Yuck! Experts tell me that approximately 80% of all dust in your house is dead skin. Did you know that? I know that sounds gross, but that's what happens to our body's largest organ.

Our skin rejuvenates naturally. Every 30 days, skin sloughs off, and the newer cells are uncovered! However, after your 20's, this process slows down. After the age of 30, your dead skin needs help in sloughing off.

Exfoliation is the best process to remove dead skin and to improve overall appearance.

The best product that I can recommend for glowing skin is a microdermabrasion product!

How often can I use a product that will serve as a microdermabrasion?

The experts recommend that you exfoliate two or three times a week. Start with once a week and work up to two times a week. Remember to be extremely gentle when applying the product. To exfoliate properly, you do NOT need to scrub hard. Gentle exfoliation is all that you need!

Important Note: If you have sensitive skin, do not use any type of exfoliator! Your skin can not tolerate exfoliating products!

Watch my video on this topic! Go to http://www.KathleenOlivieri.com and look at my blog tab. I would love to you to connect with me via social media - Facebook, Twitter or Instagram.

Natural Skin Care Products

As more people are becoming aware of the effect of pesticides and synthetic ingredients on our environment and health, more women are interested in using natural skin care products. With the increasing demand comes more widely available natural skin care products which may be chemical-free, completely organic, or even vegan. It is estimated that, during a typical skin care treatment, a woman's skin, hair and nails come in contact with over 100 chemicals, many of them harmful to health. In her lifetime, the average woman will ingest around four pounds of lipstick, and lipstick can contain tar, aluminum and many other poisonous or carcinogenic substances. Therefore, natural skin care products are more in demand these days, as awareness of health increases.
Natural skin care products are available in the following forms:

· Cosmetics
· Shampoos and conditioners
· Cleansers
· Skin conditioners
· Skin toners and hydrators

There are also natural perfumes, moisturizers and skin treatments. Natural and organic cosmetics are free of synthetic dyes and the color can be obtained through plants and minerals. They usually have a shorter shelf-life than conventional cosmetics, and should be replaced often. Natural cosmetics are available as foundations, lipsticks, eyeliners and other beautifying products. Many natural cosmetics use animal products such as beeswax and lanolin, and vegans, those who avoid animal products completely, should find cosmetics using vegetable oils such as palm and shea butter.

Many consumers of natural beauty products enjoy the benefits of aromatherapy along with cleansing and conditioning their skin and hair. Aromatherapy is the art of affecting one's sense of well-being through the use of essential oils from flowers and herbs. Some blends stimulate while others relax. Many natural skin care products are available in sets which include a shower gel, soap, shampoo and conditioner, a scrub and cologne. Orange, bergamot and cedar have stimulating effects and refresh the skin. Many report a tingling sensation after using natural citrus and cedar products. Jasmine and Ylang-Ylang soothes and prevents stress.

Natural skin care products are usually made of bases and essential oils. Depending on the product, the base may be a wax or a cream made of moisturizing oils and plant butters. Unrefined shea butter from Africa is a common choice and Tamanu from Madagascar is prized for its soothing properties. The best essential oils are expeller pressed, which means that they are extracted without chemical solvents. The bases and oils are combined to produce skin creams, cleansers, perfumes and lipsticks.

Skin masks and treatments are in-depth processes and require several types of natural skin care products for an entire treatment. Mud masks may contain real, vitamin-rich mud or clay from certain regions of the world known for producing nourishing products. A mask, which draws out the impurities from the skin and improves circulation, is usually followed by a hydrating spray. Rosewater is often used for this purpose, because of its nourishing and moisturizing properties. The skin is cleansed using a scrub, made of crushed peach pits or another rough material that sloughs off dead cells. Cleansers are used according to one's skin type; those with dry skin may use a cleanser with a fruit such as avocado or banana, and those with oily-skin or acne find tea tree oil cleanser to be quite effective. A moisturizer completes the treatment, and is made of oils from plants such as cocoa or palm that gently add moisture without clogging the pores.

One should be careful when purchasing natural skin care products. Many conventional skin care products claim to have natural ingredients, but this might mean that they use a bit of a plant or an herb, and the other 95% of the lotion is made of chemicals. Read the label to ensure that the products you are using are all-natural, if this is important to you, and work with a company that you trust.

For more Makeup Tricks Please Visit Here: How to make eyeliner and kajal

So many people have seen white eyeliner in stores, but never bought it because they didn't know how to use it. They assume that it isn't used like normal cosmetic eyeliner because of its unconventional color. In reality, white eyeliner can be used in many interesting ways.

Microdermabrasion Benefits

We are all too familiar with the effect that the sun has on our skin. Over a period of time our facial skin needs help. Many women and men are seeking those ways of erasing years from their appearance, reversing the damaging effects of tanning or looking to freshen up their face. Whether you are young or old, microdermabrasion is considered Hollywood's secret to looking red-carpet ready. And the best part, it can be done during your lunchtime.

Microdermabrasion or also referred as Microderm, is a cosmetic procedure that removes the top layer of sun-damaged and dead skin cells, leaving behind a younger healthier you. The method of exfoliating the outer-most layer of your skin, whether by crystal or non-crystal method, both offer the same great benefits.
Revitalize sun damaged skin - over time the sun does a number on your skin. It can cause sun spots, wrinkles and enlarged pores. With a few microdermabrasion sessions the skin will be rejuvenated.

Fades age spots - microderm stimulates new cells by replacing the damaged ones caused by the sun.

Painless - exfoliating with crystals or paddles is a painless process, taking the fear of pain and putting it to rest.

Fine lines and wrinkles - exposing your skin to UV rays is like inviting lines and wrinkles to evade your face regardless of your age. Microderm softens those creases and turns back the clock on aging.

Works quickly - microdermabrasion is a fast procedure that delivers immediate results. Dubbed the lunchtime procedure, this technique requires little to no downtime or the need to hide your face.

Smoother skin - microdermabrasion rids your complexion of dead skin cells and smooth's fine lines and wrinkles. This ultimately improves the application of makeup as it glides on for a flawless finish.

Works well with other cosmetic procedures - microderm when combined with other cosmetic procedures, such as chemical peels, increases the rejuvenation of your complexion. Topical products are more easily penetrated through the surface layer.

Acne treatment - by opening up clogged pores that lead to acne, microderm helps get rid of excess dirt and oils that washing does not remove. By softening the top layer of the skin, topical anti-acne medications can better penetrate the skin. In addition, by removing the skin's dead cells, superficial acne scars on the surface of the skin are improved leaving behind a smoother texture to the face.

Reduce pores - no one likes enlarged pores. Not only are they unsightly but they also attract dirt and oil accumulation.

So if you are looking to revitalize your facial appearance then check out the benefits of microdermabrasion. You'll be surprised at the results.

Skin Care and Lemon

The skin is the largest organ of the human body. Since our skin covers our body, it is the most exposed organ that we have. And since skin is exposed, people can see it. This is why a lot of people take all the necessary precautions in order to keep their skin as flawless as possible.

There are a lot of ways to maintain smooth and clear skin. An expensive approach is to get the services of a reputable dermatologist. However, there are also inexpensive ways to keep your skin smooth and healthy. One such way is to use lemons for your skin care needs. Here are some examples on how lemons can be used for skin care.
Diminish age spots. Extracting the juice from lemons and using it directly on your skin is a good way to reduce the visibility of age spots on your skin. To do this, simply rub lemon juice directly over age spots and leave it there while you are sleeping. Wash your face in the morning with cold water. If done regularly, you will have lighter and cleaner skin after a few weeks. If there are age spots all over your body, you can juice one lemon and add the juice to your bath. Soak in the bath for a minimum of 20 minutes to get the desired effect.

Lighten skin complexion. More often than not, our elbows and knees are our most problematic areas when it comes to skin care. Applying fresh lemon juice to your knees and elbows will soften and brighten the skin on these areas.

Remove blackheads. Rubbing lemon juice over blackheads will also get rid of them. It is a good astringent that kills any bacteria that may cause the occurrence of blackheads or acne.

Neutralize oily skin. The citric acid acts as a good neutralizer for oily skin. To make a neutralizing solution, mix 2 tablespoons of lemon juice to 1 table spoon distilled water then apply using cotton balls.

Exfoliate skin. Lemon juice has astringent as well as exfoliating ingredients. You can soften your facial skin by concocting your own facial mask by mixing equal portions of lemon, honey and olive oil. Apply the mask on your face and leave it to dry for 10 to 20 minutes. Rinse away the mask with warm water.

Rejuvenate skin. When you exfoliate your skin regularly with lemon juice or any concoction with lemon juice in it, you are basically peeling off the dead skin cells that are left on your skin. These dead skin cells are what is causing your skin to become rough and hard. Regular use of lemon will make your skin look younger and glowing.

A word of caution however, the citric acid found in lemon is an acid and therefore may sting when applied to open wounds. If possible, do not apply lemon juice directly on skin which is already extremely dry. If there is a need to apply lemon juice on dry skin, make sure to dilute it in water to minimize the stinging.

Facts You Never Knew About Top Rated Skin Care Products

Every single day we see many of the world's most famous and most popular top rated skin care products being advertized on TV; on billboards; on the sides of buses and trains and in glossy magazines. We see sports stars and famous movie celebrities featuring in many of these adverts, and many of us are easily convinced to follow their lead.

One of my favorite advertizing gimmicks is the frequent use of "Before" and "After" photos. You know the ones where a real photo (Before) of celebrity or a star is taken before they spend three or four hours with a professional makeup artist to prepare them for the "After" photo. Actually I'm not sure why they bother with makeup artists because the photos get Photoshopped afterwards anyway.

A very good friend of mine does web design, and believe me; he can make me look 30 years younger than I am within just a few minutes. I love Photoshop, but sadly I am useless when it comes to using it myself. Anyway, I did promise to give you a few facts, so let's get started.
FACT No.1 - Image Manipulation
Just recently the BBC published an article regarding two adverts being banned by the Advertizing Standards Authority in the United Kingdom. Both of these adverts were for anti-aging skin care products, and both featured extremely famous celebrities. Editing and retouching images is mostly accepted, but in these two cases it was beyond a joke.

Oh, and by the way, both of these products belong to two of the biggest brand names on the planet. If you are skeptical, just do a Google search and see for yourself. Now you need to ask yourself why these companies would have to rely on misleading image manipulation if their products were/are as good as what they say they are.

FACT No.2 - Chemical Free Sunscreen
If you have been using an expensive "chemical free" sunscreen, then I'm really sorry I have to tell you this, but virtually every sunscreen on the planet contains Zinc Oxide and/or Titanium Dioxide, both of which are chemicals. If you see either of these mentioned on the list of ingredients, then I'm afraid you've been duped.

FACT No.3 - pH Balanced
Have you noticed how so many skin care manufacturers use the term "pH Balanced" on the products? They do this to imply that their products are superior to other products; that their products are gentler and less likely to cause skin irritation. In truth, nearly every commercially available skin care product has a pH level that is 100% compatible with your hair and your skin.

FACT No.4 - Boosts Collagen
You will see collagen being mentioned on countless cosmetics these days, and manufacturers have gone to great lengths to convince consumers how important collagen is for your skin. Unfortunately, your body has to produce its own collagen because it is a scientific fact that this substance cannot penetrate your skin.

Additionally, if there was a skin care product capable of increasing the amount of collagen in your skin, the authorities would pull it off the shelves because they would consider it to be a mislabeled drug.

In this article I've only mentioned and discussed four misleading practices which are disturbingly common throughout the cosmetics industry. Sadly, there are many more common marketing gimmicks being used in order to boost sales.

Remember, you can mislead people without telling a single lie because it's not what you say, but rather how you say it that counts. I can tell you my product is "pH balanced" because the pH is within acceptable parameters; I can tell you my product is "collagen enriched" because it is, but I'm not obligated to tell you that none of this makes any difference. I haven't lied; I've simply allowed you to mislead yourself by my choice of words, and what those words imply.

The ABC Guide To Finding The Best Skin Care Brands

Many people firmly believe that the most famous skin care brand names are obviously the best skin care brands. Nobody can blame them because most of us have been conditioned to think this way all our lives.

When you were growing up you probably would have heard your Mom and her friends discussing various skin care products. I might be mistaken, but I bet those discussions were mostly about big brand name products; products they had seen in their favorite weekly magazines, or maybe on TV. Back in those days we mostly had to rely on magazines, radios and TV for information, but now we have the internet.

The internet can help you to look beyond the multi-million dollar advertising campaigns. It can help you to find excellent skin care products which you never see being advertised on TV or in all those glossy magazines.

Comparing Foods to Cosmetics
Most of the eggs you see at your local supermarket come from massive farms. Everything is meticulously calculated in order to get as many eggs as possible from each individual hen. The hens are also given antibiotics and etc. in order to ensure they don't get sick. Now, would you rather eat these eggs, or would you rather eat eggs that come from your neighbors free range hens that run around in the garden?

Farmers markets have become immensely popular as well. More and more people are beginning to shift away from mass produced produce. Instead, they are buying foods that come from other people's back yards or from smallholdings. Those who grow these foods do so with passion, and if you have ever compared these foods to those in your local supermarket you will already know how superior they are.

Cosmetics are to some extent very similar. The big players spend billions of dollars on advertising and trendy packaging. These costs need to be recovered, and the only way to do that is by charging customers more. What I am saying here is that a high price tag doesn't automatically equate to high quality.

If you are willing to spend $50 on a famous brand name product, then why wouldn't you spend the same amount of money on a similar product made by a company you may never have heard of before? After all, that smaller company isn't spending millions of dollars on advertising and marketing. They are probably just pumping more money into creating products that are genuinely good quality.

Misleading Labels

Contrary to popular belief, the cosmetics industry is largely unregulated. Manufacturers can generally do whatever they want, providing they don't use ingredients which are forbidden by agencies like the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

For example, if a manufacturer puts a single drop of vitamin E into a batch of skin cream, they are legally entitled to advertise that product as being vitamin E enriched. They also aren't required by law to tell you what type of vitamin E was used. Okay vitamin E is a poor example because it is a dirt cheap ingredient, but there are other ingredients which are really expensive.

When you have massive advertising bills to pay, surely it must be very tempting to cut back on other expenses, including how much you spend on the ingredients being used in your products. Only add minuscule quantities of those expensive ingredients so you can legally brag about it, and then just use cheap fillers to add bulk. I'm not saying all the big brand names are guilty of this, but let's face it, the money required for multi-million dollar advertising campaigns must come from somewhere.

5 Reasons Why You Should Only Use Natural Skin Cream

I doubt you would even be able to find a woman on the planet that doesn't have at least one type of skin cream in their home. In fact, most women have several different creams and lotions and of course, many of us have our favorite brands.

In the past I used to change from one brand to the next all the time, which invariably resulted in me having far more than I could ever hope to use. Quite often I would end up throwing half full bottle in the trash, but then something changed. I discovered a really good natural skin cream, and today I only use all-natural skin care products, including makeup and etc.
I still cannot resist the temptation when I stumble across a new brand that looks promising. However, I certainly don't throw away as much money as I used to, not least because good quality all-natural products are not cheap, and particularly if you insist on using ones which are certified organic. So, what made me adopt an all-natural approach? Here are the five things which convinced me:

1.  Less Damaging to the Environment
When I started doing some serious research about natural skin care products, I discovered some really disturbing information regarding many of the chemicals routinely being used in the cosmetics industry. In fact, I was so startled by some of the things I read that I decided to start researching many of the ingredients that were in the creams and lotions I had at home. Some of these were chemicals that are known to be very harmful to fish and other wildlife. All of a sudden I started feeling guilty because for years I had been throwing my empty containers in the trash, along with many that were still half full. I'm very much an environmentally aware sort of person, so this really bugged me.

2.  No More Clogged Pores
It became blatantly obvious while doing my research that creams and lotions which are made from 100% natural ingredients are far less likely to clog my pores when compared to most mainstream products.

3.  Less Damaging to Skin
Having discovered just how toxic many of the frequently used chemicals are, my sense of logic told me that these couldn't possibly be doing my skin any good. I honestly could not believe that I had been rubbing creams on my skin that contained industrial strength chemicals, some of which are used in things like pesticides and etc. A chemical called triclosan is just one such example, and I am using it here because it is the most prevalent antibacterial chemical found in cosmetics; cleaning products; toys; stationary; garbage bags, toilet seats and etc. The Canadian government has already ruled that triclosan is toxic to the environment. Some personal care manufacturers have also pledged to start phasing out the use of this chemical, while the State of Minnesota has declared a State-wide ban which comes in force on the 1st of January 2017. Do you honestly want to be rubbing something like this into your skin every day?

4.  Skin Nourishment
After spending several weeks researching the chemicals which are routinely used in mainstream skin care products, I thought it would be a good idea to start researching ingredients found in natural skin care products. What a stark difference I saw. In fact, I recall coming across one company guaranteeing that all their products are so natural and so pure that you could even eat them if you wanted to.

5.  Equivalent or Better Results
I am going to stop short of saying that all-natural skin care products deliver superior results because I wouldn't be able to backup such a claim with scientific facts. However, I personally believe I have seen better results since I changed over. When I was still using regular creams and so on, I never once believed any of them could make me look 10 years younger, and no, I don't believe any natural ones can make me look 10 years younger either. I do however believe that my skin looks healthier now than it did a few years ago.

Japanese Skin Care - 3 Life Changing Secrets

If you are expecting me to reveal the identity of some secret Japanese ingredient that has the potential to keep you looking young for the rest of your life, I think you are going to be disappointed. Just like everyone else in the world, the Japanese don't have a secret magic bullet.

With so many Japanese women having such flawless skin, it certainly does make you wonder how they do it. Well, I am going to tell you three secrets about Japanese skin care, even though they aren't entirely secrets, but they are things which most people in the Western world never seem to notice.

Before I get started, I must first point out that the Japanese value pale skin, and as a result, you won't find many Japanese people attempting to get a sun tan. These are people who think nothing of forgetting their umbrellas at home when it's raining, whereas many of them would never forget their umbrellas at home in the summer when the sun is shining.
Now, I really do like spending time outside in the sun, and I believe we need a certain amount of sun in order to remain healthy. However, it's a well known fact that the sun can also cause premature aging. In general, Japan's climate is skin-friendly, and even more so if you have an indoor job. Nonetheless, the Japanese also tend to take good care of their skin, but unlike many of us, they have adopted a multipronged approach rather than relying only on skin care products. Here are what I consider to be their top three skin care secrets:

Japanese Diet
More people live beyond the age of 100 in Japan than anywhere else in the world. It is also widely accepted that the typical Japanese diet is responsible for this. If your diet can strengthen organs like your heart; liver and kidneys, then surely it must have an impact on your skin as well. The Japanese eat a considerable amount of fish, and of course fish is an outstanding source of omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 is perhaps best known for its heart health properties, but it is also excellent for your skin. Most Japanese people tend to eat fish two or more times per week, so they are getting plenty of omega-3. People in Japan also eat a lot of leafy green vegetable that contain at least some omega-3, such as Japanese Kale for example. If you don't think you are eating enough fish, you should consider changing your diet, or you should consider using a good quality fish oil supplement.

Seaweed
If you have eaten Sushi, you will most likely have tasted seaweed already. If you had real authentic Sushi, then you would also have tasted Wakame seaweed. This particular kelp/seaweed is only found in the ocean waters around Japan, and it is also a good source of omega-3. Even though you probably won't be able to get fresh Wakame seaweed where you live, you might be able to buy a dried form of it which you can then add to certain dishes. Wakame seaweed extract is also showing up more and more often in some good quality all-natural skin care products, and particularly in things like anti-wrinkle creams and etc.
Skin Care Products
Just like in most countries, skin care products are immensely popular, and a considerable number of them contain wakame extract. If you believe there is any credibility to the Japanese approach to beautiful looking skin, then why not look for creams and lotions that have wakame extract in them. It's not crucial, but it is something you might want to consider.
R. Kalpana has spent years trying out countless skin care products, and today she is a firm believer in Japanese skin care. You can read an excellent product review by visiting http://www.reviewzrock.com

Causes and Treatment of Rosacea

Rosacea is a chronic skin condition portrayed by redness to the nose, cheeks, chin and forehead. Typically beginning on the face, rosacea can affect the neck, chest, ears, and scalp. Little bumps and pimples have been known to form on the red parts of the face. Tenderness, burning, and gritty eyes can also occur.

Most common in women and men over the age of 30, it has been known to affect all ages. Caucasians are more susceptible to developing rosacea.

Dealing with rosacea can decrease a person's self-confidence and increase their avoidance of social situations.
What causes rosacea is still a mystery to experts. The redness is not an infection caused by bacteria, though there is something that is irritating the skin. People who have fair skin or blush easily are more susceptible and it can run in the family.

Alcohol abuse does not cause rosacea; however, for those people already affected with rosacea, drinking alcohol can cause a flare-up of the symptom thus making it worse. When the blood vessels in the face expand it results in redness.

Some of the more common triggers are:

-  Exposure to the sun and wind
-  Severe sunburn
-  Strenuous exercise
-  Stress or anxiety
-  Hot weather
-  Spicy foods
-  Alcohol
-  Caffeine
-  Hot showers
-  Changes in temperature from hot to cold or cold to hot

A few of the more common symptoms of rosacea are:

1  Flushed, red face with sensitive dry skin that may burn or sting
2  Small bumps or pimples or acne- like breakouts
3  Skin that has a bumpy texture, coarser and thicker
4  Red, dry, irritated eyes

Depending on the severity of their rosacea, most people prefer to treat their symptoms themselves. Their first step is to understand the triggers that bring on or worsen the ailment. Keeping a journal can help identify and track food and beverage triggers. Avoiding excessive exposure to the sun is recommended, in addition to wearing sunscreen or hats with wide brims. Those people who develop eye infections should practice frequent eyelid hygiene.

Certain medications, acne and wrinkle treatments, microdermabrasion, and chemical peels have been known to trigger rosacea flare-ups. Caution should be taken before applying or undergoing one of these procedures.

There are topical and oral antibiotic agents available for the treatment of rosacea. Though these medications often produce a temporary reprieve of redness in a few weeks, the redness will return if the treatment is suspended. Usually long-term treatment lasting one to two years is necessary in the permanent control of the condition which may result in permanent remission.

Understanding the triggers and avoiding them is the first step in treating rosacea. If the condition worsens, consult your doctor. If left untreated the rosacea may become worse over time. A doctor can easily diagnose rosacea by the pattern of redness on a person's face. The majority of time medical tests are not needed.

Patti Zimmerman, writes articles based on her passion for skin care. At Perfume Aromas, we carry a wide range of skin care products for all skin types. We also provide the best customer service for your online shopping experience. Visit our website today!

What Are the Triggers of Psoriasis?

There are many different skin conditions that can cause significant discomfort for people, ranging from eczema to acne. One of the most common ones, which many individuals all around the world suffer with, is psoriasis; this has several major visible symptoms.

Some of these symptoms include dry and cracked skin, red patches of skin with a scale like appearance, and even small scaly spots on the surface of the skin. This can occur anywhere on the body, but there are also specific areas that can suffer in particular from this condition.One of these areas is the scalp, where psoriasis results in red, itchy areas and dry, flaky skin.
This condition generally come sin bouts, and will flare up and then die back down again. Periods of remission may be extended or they may be short, depending on the person and how severe the condition is for them.

With that said, there are several triggers which can cause this particular illness to flare up. Although no one knows the true cause of this skin condition, medical scientists have at least been able to identify triggers along with several different types of medical and natural remedy for psoriasis, both of which can relieve the symptoms and any associated discomfort.

One of the main triggers for this condition is stress, which is implicated in a variety of common human illnesses. For those suffering with psoriasis, it is therefore strongly advised to take measures to manage stress more effectively, as this can reduce the severity of flare ups and even avoid them altogether to some extent.

There are also some other lifestyle factors which are considered to make the illness worse. Notably, these include smoking and drinking a large quantity of alcohol. As with stress,these two factors are generally implicated in a lot of human illnesses, so stopping smoking and reducing intake of alcohol can only be beneficial for not only easing psoriasis, but also improving general well being.

In addition to these more controllable factors, environmental factors also play a role in triggering psoriasis. One of these is cold weather, which can dry out and irritate the skin and therefore cause a flare up. Taking measures to combat this in advance of the change of the seasons is therefore advised.
Infection sand injury to the skin can also cause flare ups of the condition. A simple infection such as a throat infection can be sufficient to trigger a bout of the illness, as can a simple insect bite or sunburn. Additional care needs to be taken where possible to stay in general good health and protect the skin from injury.

Some medications may also worsen the condition, so if you are taking any medicine - whether prescribed or over the counter- it is best to consult with your doctor about the effect that it may be having on your illness.

It is worth noting that different people will have different triggers when it comes to their psoriasis flaring up. The best way to avoid these triggers is to become aware of them and then taking precautions to combat them. You may find a medicinal or natural remedy for psoriasis may help, as well as regular actions to sooth your skin.

These can include using a moisturizing cream daily to keep your skin nourished, exposing your skin to small amounts of sunlight on a regular basis - taking care not to burn, of course - or taking baths on a daily basis using natural bath salts to sooth and nourish the skin.

Before you take any prescribed or natural remedy for psoriasis, however, it is best to check with your dermatologist for their professional opinion. A medical professional will best be able to advise on the best treatment for you.

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Tips for Treating Psoriasis at Home

Psoriasis can be a very uncomfortable skin condition which can significantly affect quality of life. Although there is no cure for this condition, there are many steps that can be taken to reduce its symptoms and even send the illness into remission. Many of the most effective remedies are actually home treatments.

One of the most important things to do to treat psoriasis at home is to moisturizer skin regularly. There are many differentiating products on the market today, some of them designed specifically to treat problematic skin conditions, and some just designed to deliver ample moisture to normal skin.
In all cases, it is a wise idea to choose skin moisturizers that are as natural as possible, as some synthetic substances can irritate the skin and can potentially trigger a flare up of psoriasis. It is also a good idea to seek out specific moisturizers that double as psoriasis treatment. You should, however, check with you dermatologist before applying any type of medicated moisturizer.

Along with moisturizing skin regularly, it is also recommended to bathe regularly using natural products such as bath salts. Certain products like Epsom salts are soothing to the skin and are also nourishing. The heat and moisturize in the bath also works to soften skin and remove the dry and flaky skin that is a symptom of psoriasis.

Care should be taken, however, to avoid bath products that can further irritate the skin. Stick instead with natural salts, oils and even oatmeal, as these are all natural additions to a warm bath that can ease the condition. You should also avoid baths that are too hot as water temperatures that are too high can aggravate this skin problem.

There are several other natural products that can be successfully applied to the skin as an effective psoriasis treatment. One of these is apple cider vinegar, which is a gentle but effective treatment for a number of health conditions. This can be applied to the skin plaques that are caused by psoriasis with a cotton wool ball.
There are also other products such as aloe Vera which have resulted in relief for many people suffering with mild psoriasis. Aloe Vera gel can be bought from health food stores and applied to the skin after bathing.

Tea tree oil is a product which has been helpful for some people with the condition, and over specialization for those who are suffering from the condition on their scalp. This oil is very strong, however, and it is wise to take precautions when using it by diluting it substantially. It can also cause allergic reactions in some individuals.

All of these types of home psoriasis treatment options have focused on treating the skin from the exterior, yet for best results a holistic approach is advised. Keeping the body in optimum health through what you consume will help your body cope with all conditions and illnesses much more effectively.

There are now several herbal supplements on the market which have been touted as being an effective form of psoriasis treatment. Before buying any product which claims to relieve symptoms, be absolutely sure of what you are consuming and that the ingredients are not dangerous or even illegal in your country.

If you are thinking of trying a herbal supplement, do your research thoroughly on it content sand its effectiveness. If in doubt, check with your doctor on whether nor not they believe it is suitable for you to take - they will often be knowledgeable about the over-the-counter treatments available and whether they are effective and safe or not.

Lastly, cutting down on your alcohol intake and stopping smoking can significantly help relieve the condition. Both are big factors in psoriasis flare ups, therefore eliminating these triggers will normally result in significant relief.

Matol Km® is a natural combination of minerals and extracts of 13 unique botanical that fills the vital dietary gaps in the modern diet. Matol Km is also a reliable source of recommended daily minerals, in particular potassium, iron, and iodine. Potassium is one of the minerals vital to human cells' permeability and their inherent ability to absorb nutrients from food. Available in a drink or capsules, Km has been changing people's lives for nearly a century. Although not a cure, people with conditions such as Lupus and psoriasis have noted significant relief by using this natural remedy. To find out more and try a risk-free 3 month trial of Km, please visit: http://www.matoluk.com/

8 Sure Fire Ways On How to Get Rid Of Dark Underarms

Dark underarms can be embarrassing. It can cause body odor, irritation and itching. There are many factors that can cause dark underarms. Too much use of hair removal creams, sweating, shaving, alcohol based deodorants or perfumes and excessive weight are among the major reasons for having dark underarms. Obesity and certain medications are also known to cause dark underarms

If you have dark underarms, you don't have to worry as there are a few underarm whitening remedies obtainable that are effective. These 8 tips on how to get rid of dark underarms have proven to be effective.
1  Baking soda
This is an excellent remedy as it is a natural exfoliant and can help in scrubbing off the dead skin cells. You will need water, rose water and 2 to 3 tablespoons of baking soda. Mix 2 tablespoons of baking soda with a few drops of water and make a thick paste to get rid of dark armpits. Apply it on the underarms and gently rub it in a circular pattern as this is effective in getting rid of dark underarms. Continue doing this for at least four times a week and you will see the underarms becoming lighter in color.

2  Cucumber and lemon
Lemon works perfectly when it comes to removing dark areas. Cucumber and lemon are both well known to have underarm whitening properties. Cucumber's bleaching properties can help you to get rid of dark underarms while lemon can lighten your skin tone. Mix cucumber juice with lemon juice and apply the mixture.

Lemon juice or cucumber with a pinch of turmeric has proven to be very useful when it comes to getting rid of dark underarms.

You can also use a cut cucumber in round pieces to rub your underarms for a few minutes every day to help you get rid of dark underarms

3  Yoghurt and gram flour
If you have dark armpits, then the use of yoghurt and a paste of gram is an excellent underarm whitening option. Mix 2 tablespoons of gram flour to 1 teaspoon lemon juice to make a paste to get rid of dark armpits. Apply the paste on your underarms for half an hour before you take a bath. Use cold water to wash the paste off and pat it dry. Quick results of this underarm whitening remedy can be achieved by using the remedy each alternate day.

4  Honey and milk
Milk has vitamins and the acids which are excellent in skin lightening. Mix milk and 1 tablespoon of honey and add a little turmeric powder or lime juice to your mixture. Apply it on the dark armpits to get rid of dark underarms. You can as well make a paste of milk, gram flour and honey and apply it. Let the paste dry for some time and after that wash it off with cold water before drying it with your towel.

5  Coconut oil
This is excellent underarm whitening agent as it contains vitamin E. Massaging your coconut oil on your underarms between 10 to 15 minutes before you take a shower every day is a great remedy. Massage this oil in a circular motion and then wash it using a mild soap and lukewarm water to make getting grid of dark underarms easier.

6  Potato
Potatoes are natural bleaching agents because they have mild acidic properties and are very useful in helping one get rid of dark underarms. Use thin slices of potato to rub your underarms for about five to ten minutes and then rinse off using lukewarm water to get rid of dark armpits. You can as well use potato juice or a cotton ball to rub your underarms. Wait for 10 minutes before washing it off. Use the remedy two times a day.
7  An orange peel
The orange peel can be used as an underarm whitening remedy. Since an orange peel is a citrus like lemon, it has bleaching properties that make it a good natural remedy. Make a scrub of orange peel by just grinding the peel to form a powder and then mix it with milk and rosewater to make a thick paste. Scrub this paste gently on your armpits for ten minutes and after that use cold water to rinse the paste off. This scrub will bleach your skin and get rid of dark underarms, leaving your skin more refreshed.

8  Vinegar
Vinegar is among the excellent natural remedies to help you in getting rid of dark underarms. Vinegar also helps a lot in exterminating bacteria and germs, which thrive on your dead skin and as well lighten up the skin. Make it thick by mixing vinegar and rice flour. Apply the paste on your underarms while taking shower with lukewarm water. Wash this paste off with lukewarm water after leaving it on your skin for about fifteen minutes. This underarm whitening remedy will make your underarms smell nice and become smoother.

A Comprehensive Guide On How to Get Rid Of Dark Knees

Dark knees can be embarrassing, especially during the summer when you want to wear short clothes. Kneeling down during prayers can cause dark knees. Exposure to too much sun and not exfoliating the skin can darken your skin further and you may end up with extra pigmentation. You can get rid of the dark knees using a variety of home remedies.

Here are 14 tips on how to get rid of dark knees.

1.  Baking soda
When it comes to cleaning the skin, baking soda is has proven to be effective and also reduces dark skin. If dead skin is not removed they turn color and become dark. Baking soda is a good natural scrub. It has cleansing properties.

*   Get one tablespoon of baking soda mix with milk
*   Apply the paste on your knees and scrub in a circular motion
*   Do this once for every two days until you notice a change in your skin color

2.  Honey, milk and turmeric
Milk acts as bleach and turmeric has antiseptic properties. Honey has antiseptic properties and also moisturizes your dry skin. These natural properties of these ingredients will help to get rid of dark knees. You will need one tablespoonful of turmeric powder, lemon and two tablespoons of milk

*   Start by mixing milk with honey and some turmeric until it becomes a smooth paste
*   Apply the smooth paste on your dark knees and leave it there for about 20minutes
*   Wet your hands and then rub it for two minutes and after that wash it off with water

3.  Olive oil and sugar
Sugar that is present in this effective home remedy works as an exfoliant and the olive moisturizes your skin.

*   Mix equivalent quantities of sugar and olive oil to come up with a thick paste
*   Apply the paste on your black knees
*   Rub your skin using the mixture for at least 5 minutes
*   Wash the knees using water and mild soap.

4.  Honey and lemon
Lemon has bleaching properties. Honey plays a very important role in moisturizing the skin, preventing dark skin. On the other hand, lemon juice has the natural bleaching property. To get the best results, repeat this remedy at least three times a week.

*   Mix one tablespoon of honey with the juice extract from one lemon
*   Apply the mixture of honey and lemon on the affected knees and leave the mixture to work for at least twenty minutes
*   Wash off the mixture with water to get a lightened skin

5.  Lemon and gram flour
Gram flour provides mild exfoliation and can also cleanse the area. Lemon is natural bleach and helps to get rid of dark knees.

*   Add a quantity of lime juice to 1g of flour to make it damp
*   Apply this mixture and rub in a circular motion.

6.  Olive oil works well
Olive oil is a natural bleacher and it as well softens the rough skin on the knees giving it glow and smoothness..

*   Rub warm olive oil to your knees every day for ten minutes
*   Do this every day before going to bed for three weeks

7.  The Exfoliating brush works well
Use an exfoliating loofah or brush.

*   You can use an exfoliating loofah or brush while taking your bath when your skin is still moist. Scrub the skin in a circular motion

8.  Shea butter and cocoa butter are effective
These two natural fats act as excellent moisturizers and help a lot in making the skin soft.

*   Apply shea butter or cocoa butter on your dark skin knee every night before you go to bed

9.  Aloe Vera gel
Aloe Vera reduces the damage caused by rays from the sun due to overexposure of your knees to the sun. It also moisturizes your skin and prevents dryness.

*   Take fresh Aloe Vera leaves and extract the gel by breaking the leaf
*   Apply the gel to your knees and leave it for 30 minutes to get rid of the dark knees

10.  Vaseline
Use water and chicken powder to clean your knees. Apply the paste on the affected area and give it some time to dry. Once it has dried, use cold water to remove it and dry your knees with a towel. While it is still damp, take some Vaseline and rub it on the affected area and wrap your knees in a bandage. Repeat this every night.

11.  Yoghurt and vinegar
When this two home remedies are used together to get rid of dark knees, they moisturize and cleanse your skin

Apply a mixture of yoghurt and vinegar on the affected area.

When this mixture dries up, rub the affected area in a circular motion for 2 minutes and then wash

12.   Bleaching fruits
Fruits such as grapes, tomato and lemon have bleaching properties.

Apply the juice of any this bleaching fruits regularly to your knee
You can use different juices from different fruits on different days

13.   Use of moisturizers
Moisturizers play the role of hydrating your skin. This prevents the darkening of the skin. Moisturizers also help reduce the friction of the skin

After having a shower, apply a good quality moisturizer to your knee to keep the skin supple and fresh

14.   Natural oils
The natural oils help to get rid of dark knees and also retain the moisture of the skin

Apply any natural oil like coconut oil, sesame seed oil, olive oil on the skin to reduce the darkening and dryness of your skin.

How To Control Seborrheic Dermatitis Using Tea Tree Oil

Controlling Seborrheic Dermatitis Using Tea Tree Oil

A common all natural method used to treat seborrheic dermatitis is by using tea tree oil. Anyone who has researched various ways to naturally treat seborrheic dermatitis will have come across this natural oil in their search. Tea tree oil is specifically used to target the proliferation of yeasts on the skin. I will explain in more detail how tea tree oil can help ease symptoms caused by seborrheic dermatitis. This helpful oil has become increasingly popular which is why it's highly regarded by many.

What Is Tea Tree Oil?

Tea tree oil has grown to become one of the top essential oils and this is due to the fact it contains powerful antifungals. This effectively helps control all many types of fungus, yeasts and bacteria. This essential oil dates back hundreds of years ago where it was commonly used as a natural remedy for treating different skin conditions ranging from warts to dandruff. It also contains antibacterial properties which are derived from the leaves of the Narrow Paperbark Tree.
You can find this product at any health or grocery store at an affordable price. It's rather common to come across the oil mixed with shampoos, conditioners and cleansers. In most cases, it's preferable to use only the oil by itself, in its pure form. When the oils are mixed with other ingredients, it's this processing blended with other products which considerably dilutes the effects, compared to just pure tea tree oil. It should be noted that before using this oil, caution shouldn't be overlooked. Tea tree oil is very potent in its pure form so what most recommend is to dilute it by mixing it with other types of oils.

Ways To Incorporate Tea Tree Oil For Seborrheic Dermatitis Relief

The surprising thing with this method is it can be used in different ways. Implementing this anti-inflammatory solution into your seborrheic dermatitis skin care regimen, will help control many of the associated symptoms of this condition. The methods outlined here are very easy to implement, however extreme care should be taken when using tea tree oil on sensitive skin. This medicinal oil is quite rich therefore it can quickly cause irritation to the eyes and skin. For this reason, the oil should never be left on the skin for any prolonged periods, unless diluted with other oils. Additionally, the antiseptic oil should be kept away from the eyes and if irritation lasts where symptoms do not go away, it's recommended to seek advice from a licensed health care practitioner. Always do a test patch on a small area of skin such as your arm and wait for 30 minutes to make sure you don't get an allergic reaction. This will ensure that if the oil is used on more sensitive areas of the skin, you'll be able to tolerate it.

Mixing Tea Tree Oil In Conjunction With Carrier Oils To Alleviate Seborrheic Dermatitis Symptoms

Carrier oil, as its name implies, is simply a type of oil used to help dilute essential oils before they are applied to the skin. They "carry" the essential oil onto the skin so it can be readily absorbed within the skin. These carrier oils or base oils are mainly derived from vegetable origins. Nuts and seeds are included as other popular extractions for carrier oils. Common carrier oil types include grape seed, jojoba, almond, and olive oil. There are plenty more to choose from.

A highly effective method for treating the symptoms associated with seborrheic dermatitis is using undiluted tea tree oil and tea tree oil mixed with carrier oils. This is a simple method which doesn't involve a whole lot of work. What you do is mix a table spoon of carrier oil with one or two drops of the antifungal oil, then simply rub the mixture in your hands before applying to the problem areas.

Let the mixture soak into your skin for 5-10 minutes and then gently wipe the oil off with a soft microfiber cloth. You might even encounter residual oil left on the skin afterwards, which may feel greasy. If this is the case, you can simply take a gentle facial cleanser and wash your skin in order to remove any of the excess oils. This tactic will lesson the effectiveness of the oil treatment while removing any excess shine or greasy feeling. If you do this treatment at night, you won't have to worry about the excess oil compared to the daytime. However, if you're new to using oils on your skin, it might take some time to get acclimated to the extra oils on your skin.

It's a good idea to start slow with the aforementioned method. You don't want to delve into this head first without knowing what you're getting into. For this reason, I highly recommend starting off by applying a small concentration of antifungal oil onto a small patch of skin. This will help make sure you'll have a better gauge on things. You can ask yourself if this is something you want to continue with or maybe this isn't the right method. The ultimate decision is yours to make and maybe you end up taking a different course of action. How you react to this oil will likely be the determining factor here.

Washing With Tea Tree Oil Shampoos To Control Seborrheic Dermatitis Affected Skin

This germicidal oil derived from the Narrow Paperbark tree has become synonymous with skin care. Due to its easy availability and ever increasing demand, tea tree oil has become unquestionably popular in dandruff shampoos. The marketing of these shampoos include special labeling, which indicates that the oil is helpful in treating both hair & scalp and all dandruff related symptoms. Often times, people will use these dandruff shampoos not only for their hair & scalp, but for other parts of the body. For example, even though these are primarily marketed for the hair, this doesn't limit the shampoos from being used on the face. These are also other areas where seborrheic dermatitis symptoms tend to show.

With a wide range of these products available, look for specific ones with the least number of added chemicals on the list of ingredients. This will help ensure you're getting a higher concentration of tea tree oil considering this is the main active ingredient you're buying the product for in the first place! The purer the shampoo, the less likely you run into any potential allergy problems from harsh chemicals.

The most beneficial way to use these kinds of shampoos is by letting them soak into the skin for approximately 5 minutes or so. This will give the oil ample time to effectively do its job. After the time has passed, just simply rinse off with water and you're done. Now, if you're using these shampoos as a multi-use product, it's better to look for one's with an added conditioner as it generally includes moisturising benefits for the skin.

Treating Seborrheic Dermatitis With Tea Tree Oil Soap

As referenced in the above method, washing with tea tree soap is a similar process to shampooing. What you want to do is to rub a lather of the soap onto the affected areas caused by seborrheic dermatitis. You can then proceed by leaving it on for a couple minutes and then rinse. Again, you're going to want to avoid soap with a long list of extra ingredients. It's preferable to consider organic soaps from specialty health shops. The key here is to minimize and avoid as many other variables by simply keeping it as simple as possible. This improves effectiveness of the soap and removes any potentially adverse reactions.

Using this particular method does have its drawbacks. The main one being, soaps in general are extremely drying and more so if left on the skin for an extended period. This spells trouble for those with seborrheic dermatitis because dry skin increases the rate at which flakes accrue. On the other hand, it's like a double edged sword where if the soap is rinsed off too quickly, the oil won't be able to combat the yeast overgrowth on the skin. I wouldn't say this is the optimal method, but for those who don't have problems with the drying nature of soap bars, then this is an option to consider.

It's not uncommon to find this special type of soap include a mix of other antifungals like neem, peppermint, and oregano oils. The combination of all of these antifungal essential oils can be overpowering for the skin. A prevalent issue arises when the assorted oils are all mixed together. This can lead to higher chances of unwanted adverse reactions. Before using this soap method, it's imperative to read the instructions on the packaging. Finally, you can test patch this on a hidden area of your skin by diluting the soap's lather with more water than you would normally use.

Calming Seborrheic Dermatitis Symptoms With Tree Tea Oil Washing Routine

This is one of the tried, tested and true tea tree methods because it's likely to be the least problematic when it comes to skin sensitivity. Fill a cup with purified water and then add 3-4 drops of oil. To apply the mix, simply take a cotton ball and dip it into the water and then gently dab it onto the affected areas of the skin. This method works best with purified water which you can either boil or reverse osmosis. Tap water can have fluoride and other potentially harmful chemicals so it's important to use a filter when washing.

When washing with tea tree oil and purified water, avoid overly massaging the mixture onto your skin. Once the solution has been applied, use lukewarm water to rinse off. If you feel the need to let the oil stay on your skin, you can leave it on until the air dries it out naturally. Leaving the solution to stay on and dry is going to be more effective while rinsing off will minimize the chance of any adverse effects.

A Soothing Tea Tree Oil Clay Mask Remedy For Seborrheic Dermatitis

Another method to control seborrheic dermatitis is combining the natural oil with a clay mask. To use this method, you will need to buy a clay mask product. A popular type of clay mask that's readily available is betonite clay masks. You will also need a bottle of this oil on hand.

To start off, prepare the clay mask as instructed on the packaging label. While in the process of making the mask, simply add a few drops of oil. When the colorless oil is infused with the clay mask, finish completing the rest of the steps in preparing the clay betonite mask.

Putting on a clay mask is a drying process in and of itself, however, adding this potent oil will likely enhance the drying even further. To mitigate the drying effects, it's best to reduce the amount of time the mask is left to sit on your face.

The deep cleansing action of the clay mask with the addition of this Australian oil will penetrate deep within the skin's pores. The strong antifungal properties in the oil will kill the bacteria on the skin where seborrheic dermatitis is situated.

Improving Seborrheic Dermatitis Using Tea Tree Oil Overview

Using Melaleuca Alternifolia extract is just one of the many natural methods useful in helping control seborrheic dermatitis symptoms. It is a worthwhile recommendation for sufferers who have tried other methods to control their seborrheic dermatitis without positive results. Many people who have gone about with this method have seen appreciable results leading to a serious reduction in their seborrheic dermatitis symptoms.

Is this natural oil right for you? It might be the game changer for your skin or you might stand not to benefit from any drastic results, but you won't know this unless you try this method out.

I really hope you enjoyed my article. If you have time, you can check out more information which I've written on the subject of seborrheic dermatitis and alternative treatment methods. You can check out my personal blog: http://sebdermrelief.com