Tuesday, April 24, 2012
6 Major Health Problems Caused By Lack Of Sleep
How skimping on sleep hurts your health
Cardiovascular Disease
In a 2010 study published in the journal Sleep, researchers at the West Virginia University School of Medicine reviewed data from 30,397 people who had participated in the 2005 National Health Interview Study. They discovered that those sleeping fewer than 7 hours a night were at increased risk of heart disease. In particular, women under 60 who sleep 5 hours or fewer a night have twice the risk for developing heart disease.
Diabetes
According to a study in the journal Diabetes in 2011, University of Chicago and Northwestern University researchers found that when people with type 2 diabetes slept poorly at night, they had a 9 percent higher fasting glucose level, a 30 percent higher fasting insulin level, and a 43 percent higher insulin resistance level. Diabetics with insomnia fared even worse—their fasting glucose levels were 23 percent higher, their fasting insulin levels were 48 percent higher, and their insulin resistance levels were 82 percent higher than diabetics who didn’t have insomnia.
Breast Cancer
Researchers at Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine in Sendai, Japan, studied data from nearly 24,000 women ages 40 to 79, and learned that those who slept fewer than 6 hours a night had a 62 percent higher risk for breast cancer, while those who slept more than 9 hours a night had a 28 percent lower risk.
Urinary Problems
In findings presented at the May 2011 meeting of the American Urological Association, researchers at the New England Research Institute in Watertown, MA, reviewed data from 4,145 middle-aged men and women and here’s what they discovered:
Five years of sleeping restlessly or too little (fewer than 5 hours a night) can increase by 80 to 90 percent a woman’s risk of needing to wake at night to urinate (nocturia) or of becoming incontinent. A whopping 42 percent of the women classified themselves as restless sleepers, compared with 34 percent of the men. The researchers theorize that sleeping poorly causes inflammation, which in turn can lead to urinary problems.
Colon Cancer
In a study of 1,240 people published in 2011, Case Western University researchers found that those who slept fewer than 6 hours a night were 47 percent more likely to have colorectal polyps, which can become cancerous, than people who clocked at least 7 hours of sleep.
Mortality
A 10-year study of some 16,000 people by researchers at the University of Copenhagen connected the dots between a lack of sleep and an increased risk of mortality. It turns out that the men who reported sleeping badly, especially those under 45, had twice the risk for death than men who reported sleeping well. And men who had three or more sleep disturbances a night had a suicide risk five times higher than men whose sleep was undisturbed. Though sleep disturbances didn’t affect women’s mortality, both women and men who reported sleep disturbances were more likely to have high blood pressure and diabetes.
Via Prevention Magazine
MATTHEW JOHNSTONE presents his charming 16-step guide in achieving inner peace
Now, listen to the sounds inside your body — your breath and heartbeat. This is where your attention should be, within yourself. Don’t think, just focus on your breath.
Extracted from Quiet The Mind, by Matthew Johnstone (Robinson).
Seven reasons to smile
Charles Darwin proposed in his 1872 book, The Expression of Emotion in Man and Animals, that facial expressions are biologically based and universal among humans.
Indeed, smiling is innate — in a recent Technology Entertainment and Design talk, CEO of HealthTap, Ron Gutman explained that unborn babies smile in the womb, newborn babies smile in their sleep and blind babies smile when they hear human voices.
Gutman says children smile as many as 400 times per day and even the members of the isolated Fore tribe in Papua New Guinea smile.
2. Smiles tell it all
We all know the smirk, the fake smile, cheeky grin. In 2010, researchers at the University of California at Berkeley identified at least six types of instinctive smiles:
The Duchenne smile (named after 19th-century French scientist Duchenne de Boulogne), a genuine grin, that raises both corners of the mouth and the cheeks to form 'crow's feet' at the eyes' outer edges.
The flirty, coy smile with head turned slightly away.
The amused smile after a good joke, with the head thrown back.
The love smile, with a tilted head and softened eyes.
The interested smile, with raised eyebrows and a slight grin.
The embarrassed smile, with the eyes cast downward.
3. Smiling makes you happy
In 1872, Charles Darwin proposed that, "The free expression by outward signs of an emotion intensifies it" i.e. to smile on the outside will make you happy on the inside. This is the Facial Feedback Hypothesis.
Darwin was right. Models and rock stars may look cool with serious pouts, but they are missing out a natural rush of endorphins and the feel-good serotonin, which are released whenever you smile or laugh.
"British researchers found that one smile can generate the same level of brain stimulation as up to 2,000 bars of chocolate," Gutman says.
4. Smiling makes others happy
Surakka, V. and Hietanen, J. K. (1998) proved that the sight of a smile can induce a feeling of pleasure. Their research showed that even the sight of a smile in a photo can induce pleasurable feelings, if the smile seems genuine. Is it time to change your Facebook profile photo?
5. Smiling is contagious
A recent study at Uppsala University in Sweden found that it's very difficult to frown when looking at someone who smiles, because smiling is evolutionarily contagious, and it suppresses the control we usually have on our facial muscles.
Here is a test: Smile. Now try to maintain your smile and frown at the same time. Not easy, is it?
6. Smiling makes you attractive
In his famous 20th century book, How to Win Friends and Influence People, Dale Carnegie hailed the simple smile as the first key to making an impression and dealing successfully with people.
In the late 1990s, US supermarket Safeway instructed its store employees to smile and greet customers with direct eye contact. In 1998, 12 female employees filed grievances, due to unwanted solicitous attention from male customers.
The Virginia Polytechnic Institute and the University of Oxford did a study in 2001, proving that smiles can elicit cooperation among strangers in one short interaction.
7. Smiling is good for your health
According to Christopher Peterson PhD, University of Michigan, people who are optimistic (and so smile a lot) have much better health due to a more robust immune system. In older people, those who remain optimistic are 77% less likely to die from all causes than those who are pessimists.
In his TED talk, Gutman cites a Wayne State University research project that looked into pre-1950s baseball cards and found that players who didn't smile in their pictures lived an average of only 72.9 years, where players with beaming smiles lived an average of almost 80 years.
Via Australian Women's Weekly
Ten amazing uses for lavender
Who would have thought that an all-purpose medicine could smell so lovely? Well-known for its use in making perfume, soaps, and scented sachets, lavender — either as a tea, tincture or ointment, or essential oil — has been used in healing for centuries.
Infection fighter
Along with garlic and cloves, lavender was an ingredient of the 'Four Thieves vinegar', an infamous brew attributed to 18th century grave robbers who washed their hands with it before stripping corpses of their valuables. Lavender does, in fact, contain tannins that kill bacteria and prevent minor cuts from becoming infected. Add 10 drops of lavender oil to 1/2 cup of water and use to wash the wound.
Tummy tamer
European doctors recommend lavender tea as a digestive aid. It has an antispasmodic effect, helping to relax the muscles of the digestive tract and prevent cramping of the stomach and intestine. It also helps to ease and expel wind. To make tea, put a heaped teaspoon of fresh, unsprayed flowers (or one lever teaspoon of dried lavender) in 1 cup of boiling water for 10 minutes; strain and add honey, if you wish.
Burn buster
In 1910, French chemist Rene Maurice Gattefosse noted that when he burned his hand, lavender oil resulted in faster healing. This discovery sparked research into the capabilities of essential oils: it was, in fact, Gattefosse who invented the word aromatherapy. Put a drop or two of undiluted lavender oil on small burns to ease pain immediately. The discomfort of sunburn can also be alleviated with a compress of cold lavender tea.
Help for headaches
Queen Elizabeth I was said to have favoured lavender tea for her frequent tension headaches, and lavender farmers of old would wear a spray of the flowers beneath their hats — it was apparently a notable fact that they never suffered from headaches, despite working in the bright sun all day. Apply a little neat oil to temples and massage it in for remarkable relief, or sip cool lavender tea.
Acne assistance
Lavender's natural antibacterial, antiseptic, and oil-regulating effects make it ideal for treating acne and other inflammatory skin problems, including eczema and psoriasis. It also helps to reduce scarring. Add 10 drops of lavender oil to 50ml of witch hazel, and dab directly onto spots.
Bathing beauty
A lavender-scented bath is not just a fragrant treat, it provides relief from musculo-skeletal pain, including arthritis, sciatica, sprains, strains, muscle spasms, labour pain, and period pain. Not only does the lavender reduce the actual pain, it also eases anxiety and tension about the pain, which can be a trigger in itself. Add 10 drops of oil to a bath.
Stress less
According to a Japanese study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, linalool — a substance found in lavender — 'switches off' stress-induced activity in more than 100 genes. Add lavender oil to a diffuser to disperse the scent through a room, or if you have the luxury of time, take a stress-busting soak.
Ease emotional upset
Lavender's aroma comes from airborne molecules of linalyl esters, oils that stimulate the olfactory nerve in the brain and have a balancing effect on the central nervous system, making it very helpful for treating shock, panic, faintness, hysteria, anxiety or depression. Researchers have also discovered that lavender increases the production of particular brain waves that are associated with relaxation and calm. Massage lavender oil down either side of your spine, or inhale it, either via a diffuser or on a tissue.
Stop the sting
Lavender oil helps to reduce the transmission of nerve impulses that carry pain signals, giving it a mild analgesic effect. Apply it neat to relieve the itching and irritation of insect bites and stings — this will also ease redness and swelling.
Get a good night's sleep
It is no accident that lavender is a universal ingredient in sleep pillows. Its calming and mildly sedative effect encourages you to sleep soundly and wake refreshed. A few drops of oil on a pillowcase is very effective; this is also comforting for a child having nightmares.
Caution: Avoid lavender in first trimester of pregnancy or if blood pressure is very low.
Via Australian Women's Weekly
Infection fighter
Along with garlic and cloves, lavender was an ingredient of the 'Four Thieves vinegar', an infamous brew attributed to 18th century grave robbers who washed their hands with it before stripping corpses of their valuables. Lavender does, in fact, contain tannins that kill bacteria and prevent minor cuts from becoming infected. Add 10 drops of lavender oil to 1/2 cup of water and use to wash the wound.
Tummy tamer
European doctors recommend lavender tea as a digestive aid. It has an antispasmodic effect, helping to relax the muscles of the digestive tract and prevent cramping of the stomach and intestine. It also helps to ease and expel wind. To make tea, put a heaped teaspoon of fresh, unsprayed flowers (or one lever teaspoon of dried lavender) in 1 cup of boiling water for 10 minutes; strain and add honey, if you wish.
Burn buster
In 1910, French chemist Rene Maurice Gattefosse noted that when he burned his hand, lavender oil resulted in faster healing. This discovery sparked research into the capabilities of essential oils: it was, in fact, Gattefosse who invented the word aromatherapy. Put a drop or two of undiluted lavender oil on small burns to ease pain immediately. The discomfort of sunburn can also be alleviated with a compress of cold lavender tea.
Help for headaches
Queen Elizabeth I was said to have favoured lavender tea for her frequent tension headaches, and lavender farmers of old would wear a spray of the flowers beneath their hats — it was apparently a notable fact that they never suffered from headaches, despite working in the bright sun all day. Apply a little neat oil to temples and massage it in for remarkable relief, or sip cool lavender tea.
Acne assistance
Lavender's natural antibacterial, antiseptic, and oil-regulating effects make it ideal for treating acne and other inflammatory skin problems, including eczema and psoriasis. It also helps to reduce scarring. Add 10 drops of lavender oil to 50ml of witch hazel, and dab directly onto spots.
Bathing beauty
A lavender-scented bath is not just a fragrant treat, it provides relief from musculo-skeletal pain, including arthritis, sciatica, sprains, strains, muscle spasms, labour pain, and period pain. Not only does the lavender reduce the actual pain, it also eases anxiety and tension about the pain, which can be a trigger in itself. Add 10 drops of oil to a bath.
Stress less
According to a Japanese study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, linalool — a substance found in lavender — 'switches off' stress-induced activity in more than 100 genes. Add lavender oil to a diffuser to disperse the scent through a room, or if you have the luxury of time, take a stress-busting soak.
Ease emotional upset
Lavender's aroma comes from airborne molecules of linalyl esters, oils that stimulate the olfactory nerve in the brain and have a balancing effect on the central nervous system, making it very helpful for treating shock, panic, faintness, hysteria, anxiety or depression. Researchers have also discovered that lavender increases the production of particular brain waves that are associated with relaxation and calm. Massage lavender oil down either side of your spine, or inhale it, either via a diffuser or on a tissue.
Stop the sting
Lavender oil helps to reduce the transmission of nerve impulses that carry pain signals, giving it a mild analgesic effect. Apply it neat to relieve the itching and irritation of insect bites and stings — this will also ease redness and swelling.
Get a good night's sleep
It is no accident that lavender is a universal ingredient in sleep pillows. Its calming and mildly sedative effect encourages you to sleep soundly and wake refreshed. A few drops of oil on a pillowcase is very effective; this is also comforting for a child having nightmares.
Via Australian Women's Weekly
Monday, April 23, 2012
Most Beautiful Woman In The World
She has no special talent
No special beauty mark
No invention with a patent
No voice of a comely lark
No hourglass physique
No sunbeam likened smile
No lingering mystique
No manicured nails to file
But what she had she flaunted
With the style of a fur- lined stole
With the chic of a runway model
She flashed her beautiful soul
by Ruwaida Van Doorsen
Skin Reviver Aromacology Treatment
Skin Reviver Aromacology Treatment
Empowered with Energizing-Modelage Methodology
Rich in vitamins and anti-oxidants derived from Pink Grapefruit and Orange, uses a specific ‘Energizing-Modelage Methodology’ to help stimulate cell renewal that RESTORES,RE-ENERGIZES, and REFINES the skin leaving it evenly toned, radiant, smoothed and supple. The sweet and refreshing citrusy aroma from the orange and grapefruit uplifts and awakens the senses that REFRESH you instantly!
Wednesday, April 18, 2012
A Quick Guide to Allergy Relief
Don’t let your seasonal sniffles keep you down. Learn the best ways to treat them.
The Facts
What is a seasonal allergy?
It’s an inflammatory reaction to something in the environment that causes unpleasant symptoms, such as sniffles, sneezes, and swollen sinuses. If you’re predisposed to allergies, the first time your system deems a compound (such as pollen) to be potentially dangerous, your body mass-produces antibodies called immunoglobulin E, or IgE. IgE attaches to mast cells, which are concentrated in the nose, the eyes, and the lungs and which many experts believe help protect the body from invaders. When the allergen returns, IgE latches onto it, signaling the mast cells to release histamines, chemicals that make you sneeze or cause your eyes to tear and itch.
How do you develop allergies?
There’s a genetic component to most allergies. If one of your parents has them, there’s an almost 50 percent chance that you will, too. It takes repeated exposure for allergies to develop fully, so several seasons might pass before a condition like hay fever sets in―which is why most kids don’t develop allergies until they’re 4 or 5. Seasonal allergies continue to develop throughout life. “New allergies can occur in any decade, but generally they tend to peak at around age 20,” says Linda Cox, an allergist and assistant clinical professor at the Nova Southeastern University College of Osteopathic Medicine, in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
When do seasonal allergies strike?
The season typically begins in early spring, when trees, including oak, cedar, elm, birch, ash, maple, and walnut, start to pollinate. Grasses, such as timothy, Bermuda, orchard, and some bluegrasses, germinate in late spring and early summer. Weeds, like sagebrush, tumbleweed, and ragweed―by far the most prevalent seasonal allergen, affecting 75 percent of sufferers―kick in during late summer and early fall. (Goldenrod, often confused with ragweed, is sometimes blamed for allergy symptoms, but it actually produces sticky, nonairborne pollen.) Many people think that if they can just make it to fall, they’re in the clear. Unfortunately for some, moldy leaves, an often overlooked allergen, can extend symptoms almost until winter.
There’s good news for flower lovers, though. “Regardless of what you see on TV, you’re never going to have a strong allergic reaction to a bunch of roses,” says New York City ear, nose, and throat physician Jordan S. Josephson. People don’t have allergies to actual flowers. If you find yourself sneezing after a flower delivery, it’s probably due to grasses, ferns, or molds in the soil or the bouquet.
Diagnosis and Treatment
How do you find out whether you’re allergic and what you’re allergic to?
A seasonal allergy can feel like a cold, with symptoms such as chronic congestion, a runny nose, and itchy, watery eyes. But allergies produce a thinner nasal discharge, won’t prompt a fever, are 14 times more likely than colds to trigger a migraine headache, and tend to last longer. If you’ve been sniffling for weeks on end, it’s probably time to get tested.
Luckily, that part is simple. The skin-prick test is the most common. A doctor introduces a number of allergens, sometimes as many as 60, by quickly pricking the patient’s arm or back. If redness, itching, or swelling occurs within 15 minutes, there’s an allergy match. “The process is so superficial, it’s quite painless,” says Cox. Alternatively, or if that test is inconclusive, a doctor might try a more sensitive intradermal shot, which injects allergens deeper below the skin.
What are the most effective treatments available?
Don’t be stoic. It’s important to seek relief from your symptoms, because without treatment, allergies may worsen over time. Allergic reactions can spread deep into the lungs, putting you at an increased risk for asthma. In fact, up to 40 percent of long-term allergy sufferers also have asthma. Another 40 percent will develop sinusitis, an infection of the sinuses.
For mild to moderate allergies, drugs―some prescription, some over-the-counter―are usually enough. All work similarly, by trying to stop a reaction in its tracks. “The earlier you hit the medicine cabinet, the better your results,” says Daniel Ein, an allergist at George Washington University, in Washington, D.C. You might want to take something before going outside, or consistently treat yourself before the start of the season.
Antihistamines
They prevent cells in the body from releasing histamines, which trigger the coldlike symptoms. Oral over-the-counter options are often combined with a decongestant (generally tagged with a D) for more relief.
Pros: Treat throat and nasal itching, watery eyes, a runny nose, and sneezing. Newer brands, like Claritin and Allegra, claim not to cause drowsiness.
Cons: Alone, they won’t help congestion or inflammation. Some brands can cause drowsiness.
Nasal Corticosteroids
Stronger than antihistamines, these prescription sprays, like Flonase, block inflammation and have been shown in some clinical studies to be the most effective remedy for allergy symptoms. (An oral version is available for extreme cases.)
Pros: Very effective at treating congestion.
Cons: May take a week or so to bring noticeable improvement. There’s also a higher risk of mild side effects―including nosebleeds, irritation, and a burning sensation―than with other allergy medications.
Decongestants
Nonprescription and fast acting, decongestants are available orally or as a nasal spray. They work by constricting blood vessels, which in turn reduces the amount of fluid leaked from the nose.
Pros: Instant relief from congestion.
Cons: Duration is temporary. While the nasal sprays, such as Afrin, act faster than oral alternatives, like Sudafed, most doctors discourage their use for more than three or four days because of their strong “rebound effect.” Basically, once you start, you’ll need more and more to get the same relief. Long-term use can produce chemical burns inside the nose.
When to Consider Allergy Shots
If allergies send you to bed or medications produce unpleasant side effects, immunotherapy might be for you. This treatment builds up long-term immunity to one or many allergens by continually exposing patients to greater doses of them. Covered by most insurance plans, immunotherapy typically reduces symptoms by 90 percent. That said, it’s also a lot of work. Over three to six months and well before allergy season, patients receive one or two injections a week of specific allergens in increasing concentrations. Then, once or twice a month over the next three years, patients get maintenance shots of the maximum concentration reached during the buildup phase. Some people maintain their improvement indefinitely, but others relapse. Most relapses occur within three years of stopping treatment.
If you’re needle-shy, ask your doctor about sublingual immunotherapy, a method that substitutes under-the-tongue pills or drops for the shots. The dose is higher, but the treatment appears to be safer, and experts say the results compare well with injections.
Minimizing Symptoms
Check the pollen count and try to stay inside when levels are high. For current levels, go to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology’s website. You can also sign up for an allergen report via e-mail.
Close windows at night and delay morning jogs. Plants release pollen from 4 a.m. to 8 a.m., so the longer you stay inside during this period, the better.
Run the air conditioner and invest in a HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filter, which is required to capture 99.97 percent of the particles passing through it. Because pollen from shoes, animal paws, and other things can get embedded in carpets, consider replacing permanent carpets with washable throw rugs. Be wary of nonairborne allergens, such as dander, mold, and dust, which can aggravate seasonal allergies.
Keep your lawn mowed short to prevent it from sprouting pollen-producing buds. Consider substituting nonpollinating plants, like ivy and myrtle, for grass. Get rid of leaves and compost piles quickly, before molds form.
Wear natural fibers. Synthetics, such as polyester and nylon, can create a pollen-attracting electric charge when rubbed.
Shower and wash your hair before going to bed. Daytime pollen can collect on your body, meaning you’ll be breathing it in all night.
Breathe through your nose. When it comes to keeping out foreign bodies, noses are much better designed than mouths.
Avoid secondhand smoke. A study in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology found that exposure to secondhand smoke exacerbated allergic responses.
Clean the house often. Reducing the levels of pollen, dust, and mold in your home will reduce your symptoms. Use vacuums, mops, and microfiber dust cloths, which collect particles, rather than brooms, which recirculate them into the air. Buy pillowcases and mattress covers made from fabrics labeled “dustproof,” and wash them frequently at hot temperatures to eradicate dust mites and pollen. Don’t air-dry bedding or clothes, since damp cloth attracts pollen. And wipe down windowsills with a damp cloth before going to bed so you can breathe and rest easy at night.
Drug-Free Allergy Remedies
Change your diet. Some foods, particularly fruits, have the same allergens in them as tree pollens. Therefore some people who are allergic to tree pollens may have symptoms, such as tingling in the mouth, when they eat certain fruits. This is called oral allergy syndrome. Fruits this can occur with include apples, pears, and cantaloupes. Peeling or cooking the fruit usually prevents the reaction.
Use saline drops. Squirt a salt-water or saline solution up your nose once or twice a day using a bottle with an angled tip to rid nasal passages of residual pollen.
Try acupuncture. Results are preliminary, but a handful of studies have found that acupuncture can be effective at reducing seasonal allergy symptoms, according to a review published in the 2006 edition of Current Opinion in Allergy and Clinical Immunology.
Via Real Simple
The Facts
What is a seasonal allergy?
It’s an inflammatory reaction to something in the environment that causes unpleasant symptoms, such as sniffles, sneezes, and swollen sinuses. If you’re predisposed to allergies, the first time your system deems a compound (such as pollen) to be potentially dangerous, your body mass-produces antibodies called immunoglobulin E, or IgE. IgE attaches to mast cells, which are concentrated in the nose, the eyes, and the lungs and which many experts believe help protect the body from invaders. When the allergen returns, IgE latches onto it, signaling the mast cells to release histamines, chemicals that make you sneeze or cause your eyes to tear and itch.
How do you develop allergies?
There’s a genetic component to most allergies. If one of your parents has them, there’s an almost 50 percent chance that you will, too. It takes repeated exposure for allergies to develop fully, so several seasons might pass before a condition like hay fever sets in―which is why most kids don’t develop allergies until they’re 4 or 5. Seasonal allergies continue to develop throughout life. “New allergies can occur in any decade, but generally they tend to peak at around age 20,” says Linda Cox, an allergist and assistant clinical professor at the Nova Southeastern University College of Osteopathic Medicine, in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
When do seasonal allergies strike?
The season typically begins in early spring, when trees, including oak, cedar, elm, birch, ash, maple, and walnut, start to pollinate. Grasses, such as timothy, Bermuda, orchard, and some bluegrasses, germinate in late spring and early summer. Weeds, like sagebrush, tumbleweed, and ragweed―by far the most prevalent seasonal allergen, affecting 75 percent of sufferers―kick in during late summer and early fall. (Goldenrod, often confused with ragweed, is sometimes blamed for allergy symptoms, but it actually produces sticky, nonairborne pollen.) Many people think that if they can just make it to fall, they’re in the clear. Unfortunately for some, moldy leaves, an often overlooked allergen, can extend symptoms almost until winter.
There’s good news for flower lovers, though. “Regardless of what you see on TV, you’re never going to have a strong allergic reaction to a bunch of roses,” says New York City ear, nose, and throat physician Jordan S. Josephson. People don’t have allergies to actual flowers. If you find yourself sneezing after a flower delivery, it’s probably due to grasses, ferns, or molds in the soil or the bouquet.
Diagnosis and Treatment
How do you find out whether you’re allergic and what you’re allergic to?
A seasonal allergy can feel like a cold, with symptoms such as chronic congestion, a runny nose, and itchy, watery eyes. But allergies produce a thinner nasal discharge, won’t prompt a fever, are 14 times more likely than colds to trigger a migraine headache, and tend to last longer. If you’ve been sniffling for weeks on end, it’s probably time to get tested.
Luckily, that part is simple. The skin-prick test is the most common. A doctor introduces a number of allergens, sometimes as many as 60, by quickly pricking the patient’s arm or back. If redness, itching, or swelling occurs within 15 minutes, there’s an allergy match. “The process is so superficial, it’s quite painless,” says Cox. Alternatively, or if that test is inconclusive, a doctor might try a more sensitive intradermal shot, which injects allergens deeper below the skin.
What are the most effective treatments available?
Don’t be stoic. It’s important to seek relief from your symptoms, because without treatment, allergies may worsen over time. Allergic reactions can spread deep into the lungs, putting you at an increased risk for asthma. In fact, up to 40 percent of long-term allergy sufferers also have asthma. Another 40 percent will develop sinusitis, an infection of the sinuses.
For mild to moderate allergies, drugs―some prescription, some over-the-counter―are usually enough. All work similarly, by trying to stop a reaction in its tracks. “The earlier you hit the medicine cabinet, the better your results,” says Daniel Ein, an allergist at George Washington University, in Washington, D.C. You might want to take something before going outside, or consistently treat yourself before the start of the season.
Antihistamines
They prevent cells in the body from releasing histamines, which trigger the coldlike symptoms. Oral over-the-counter options are often combined with a decongestant (generally tagged with a D) for more relief.
Pros: Treat throat and nasal itching, watery eyes, a runny nose, and sneezing. Newer brands, like Claritin and Allegra, claim not to cause drowsiness.
Cons: Alone, they won’t help congestion or inflammation. Some brands can cause drowsiness.
Nasal Corticosteroids
Stronger than antihistamines, these prescription sprays, like Flonase, block inflammation and have been shown in some clinical studies to be the most effective remedy for allergy symptoms. (An oral version is available for extreme cases.)
Pros: Very effective at treating congestion.
Cons: May take a week or so to bring noticeable improvement. There’s also a higher risk of mild side effects―including nosebleeds, irritation, and a burning sensation―than with other allergy medications.
Decongestants
Nonprescription and fast acting, decongestants are available orally or as a nasal spray. They work by constricting blood vessels, which in turn reduces the amount of fluid leaked from the nose.
Pros: Instant relief from congestion.
Cons: Duration is temporary. While the nasal sprays, such as Afrin, act faster than oral alternatives, like Sudafed, most doctors discourage their use for more than three or four days because of their strong “rebound effect.” Basically, once you start, you’ll need more and more to get the same relief. Long-term use can produce chemical burns inside the nose.
When to Consider Allergy Shots
If allergies send you to bed or medications produce unpleasant side effects, immunotherapy might be for you. This treatment builds up long-term immunity to one or many allergens by continually exposing patients to greater doses of them. Covered by most insurance plans, immunotherapy typically reduces symptoms by 90 percent. That said, it’s also a lot of work. Over three to six months and well before allergy season, patients receive one or two injections a week of specific allergens in increasing concentrations. Then, once or twice a month over the next three years, patients get maintenance shots of the maximum concentration reached during the buildup phase. Some people maintain their improvement indefinitely, but others relapse. Most relapses occur within three years of stopping treatment.
If you’re needle-shy, ask your doctor about sublingual immunotherapy, a method that substitutes under-the-tongue pills or drops for the shots. The dose is higher, but the treatment appears to be safer, and experts say the results compare well with injections.
Minimizing Symptoms
Check the pollen count and try to stay inside when levels are high. For current levels, go to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology’s website. You can also sign up for an allergen report via e-mail.
Close windows at night and delay morning jogs. Plants release pollen from 4 a.m. to 8 a.m., so the longer you stay inside during this period, the better.
Run the air conditioner and invest in a HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filter, which is required to capture 99.97 percent of the particles passing through it. Because pollen from shoes, animal paws, and other things can get embedded in carpets, consider replacing permanent carpets with washable throw rugs. Be wary of nonairborne allergens, such as dander, mold, and dust, which can aggravate seasonal allergies.
Keep your lawn mowed short to prevent it from sprouting pollen-producing buds. Consider substituting nonpollinating plants, like ivy and myrtle, for grass. Get rid of leaves and compost piles quickly, before molds form.
Wear natural fibers. Synthetics, such as polyester and nylon, can create a pollen-attracting electric charge when rubbed.
Shower and wash your hair before going to bed. Daytime pollen can collect on your body, meaning you’ll be breathing it in all night.
Breathe through your nose. When it comes to keeping out foreign bodies, noses are much better designed than mouths.
Avoid secondhand smoke. A study in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology found that exposure to secondhand smoke exacerbated allergic responses.
Clean the house often. Reducing the levels of pollen, dust, and mold in your home will reduce your symptoms. Use vacuums, mops, and microfiber dust cloths, which collect particles, rather than brooms, which recirculate them into the air. Buy pillowcases and mattress covers made from fabrics labeled “dustproof,” and wash them frequently at hot temperatures to eradicate dust mites and pollen. Don’t air-dry bedding or clothes, since damp cloth attracts pollen. And wipe down windowsills with a damp cloth before going to bed so you can breathe and rest easy at night.
Drug-Free Allergy Remedies
Change your diet. Some foods, particularly fruits, have the same allergens in them as tree pollens. Therefore some people who are allergic to tree pollens may have symptoms, such as tingling in the mouth, when they eat certain fruits. This is called oral allergy syndrome. Fruits this can occur with include apples, pears, and cantaloupes. Peeling or cooking the fruit usually prevents the reaction.
Use saline drops. Squirt a salt-water or saline solution up your nose once or twice a day using a bottle with an angled tip to rid nasal passages of residual pollen.
Try acupuncture. Results are preliminary, but a handful of studies have found that acupuncture can be effective at reducing seasonal allergy symptoms, according to a review published in the 2006 edition of Current Opinion in Allergy and Clinical Immunology.
Via Real Simple
7 Quick Mood Boosters
Brighten your spirits in no time flat with these easy tricks
Reach for the sky
Get on your feet, look to the ceiling and stretch your arms straight up, spreading your fingers. "The simple act of standing prompts a boost in circulation, delivering oxygen- and energy-rich blood to your cells," explains psychotherapist Kimberly Willis, PhD, author of The Little Book of Diet Help: Expert Tips and Tapping Techniques to Stay Slim for Life. And smile as you hold the stretch: It will trigger the release of feel-good brain chemicals.
Turn "to-do" into "it's done!"
Turns out that just having a to-do list can seem overwhelming and make you feel tired instead of inspired to finish the tasks. So, create an "it's done" list to give yourself a sense of achievement, suggests Tamar Chansky, PhD, author of Freeing Yourself from Anxiety. Take a minute to write down 10 quick things you've accomplished today or this week.
Use your imagination
Has a hectic day left you longing for a relaxing beach vacation? Go there—in your mind. "Your brain responds the same way to a vividly imagined experience as it does to a real one," says George Pratt, PhD, coauthor of Code to Joy: The Four-Step Solution to Unlocking Your Natural State of Happiness. Close your eyes and focus on the sights, smells and tastes (the sensory parts) of your chosen escape.
Go for the good carbs
To boost your levels of serotonin, a calming brain chemical, try a carb-rich snack. No, this isn't a free pass to binge on chips: It only takes about 30 g of carbohydrate (4 cups of air-popped popcorn) to get the lift. Try half of a whole-grain English muffin with 1 Tbsp jam, or 1/2 cup oatmeal.
Put on something bright
Just changing out of that gray or black shirt and putting on one in a bold color can give you a lift, says Jennifer Baumgartner, PsyD, psychologist and author of You Are What You Wear. Bright shades of red, pink and yellow are best for stimulating your brain.
Try acupressure
One quick way to ease stress from a bad mood? Rub an acupressure point that helps release tension in your body, suggests Dr. Willis. Grab the skin between your thumb and first finger with the thumb and first finger of your other hand. Gently massage in circles for a minute, then repeat on the other hand.
Choose your words wisely
"Nothing's going right! Everythingis out of control!" Sound familiar? When you get stressed, it's easy toslip into an all-or-nothing mentality. But that can just drag you down, says Dr. Chansky. A simple solution: Use the word some. In other words, "Some things are going right, some things aren't." Suddenly, the glass is looking half-full.
Via Women's Day
Reach for the sky
Get on your feet, look to the ceiling and stretch your arms straight up, spreading your fingers. "The simple act of standing prompts a boost in circulation, delivering oxygen- and energy-rich blood to your cells," explains psychotherapist Kimberly Willis, PhD, author of The Little Book of Diet Help: Expert Tips and Tapping Techniques to Stay Slim for Life. And smile as you hold the stretch: It will trigger the release of feel-good brain chemicals.
Turn "to-do" into "it's done!"
Turns out that just having a to-do list can seem overwhelming and make you feel tired instead of inspired to finish the tasks. So, create an "it's done" list to give yourself a sense of achievement, suggests Tamar Chansky, PhD, author of Freeing Yourself from Anxiety. Take a minute to write down 10 quick things you've accomplished today or this week.
Use your imagination
Has a hectic day left you longing for a relaxing beach vacation? Go there—in your mind. "Your brain responds the same way to a vividly imagined experience as it does to a real one," says George Pratt, PhD, coauthor of Code to Joy: The Four-Step Solution to Unlocking Your Natural State of Happiness. Close your eyes and focus on the sights, smells and tastes (the sensory parts) of your chosen escape.
Go for the good carbs
To boost your levels of serotonin, a calming brain chemical, try a carb-rich snack. No, this isn't a free pass to binge on chips: It only takes about 30 g of carbohydrate (4 cups of air-popped popcorn) to get the lift. Try half of a whole-grain English muffin with 1 Tbsp jam, or 1/2 cup oatmeal.
Put on something bright
Just changing out of that gray or black shirt and putting on one in a bold color can give you a lift, says Jennifer Baumgartner, PsyD, psychologist and author of You Are What You Wear. Bright shades of red, pink and yellow are best for stimulating your brain.
Try acupressure
One quick way to ease stress from a bad mood? Rub an acupressure point that helps release tension in your body, suggests Dr. Willis. Grab the skin between your thumb and first finger with the thumb and first finger of your other hand. Gently massage in circles for a minute, then repeat on the other hand.
Choose your words wisely
"Nothing's going right! Everythingis out of control!" Sound familiar? When you get stressed, it's easy toslip into an all-or-nothing mentality. But that can just drag you down, says Dr. Chansky. A simple solution: Use the word some. In other words, "Some things are going right, some things aren't." Suddenly, the glass is looking half-full.
Via Women's Day
44 timeless beauty tips
Gorgeous Hair
1 Camouflage roots by zigzagging your part rather than making it straight. February 1981
2 Brush hair from roots to ends nightly. This distributes natural oils throughout the shaft and gives hair a healthy sheen. October 2005
3 Be direct when telling your hairstylist what you want, and bring photos from magazines of styles you like. April 1971
4 Doing your hair color yourself? Don’t make too drastic a change. Stay within one or two shades of your natural color. October 1955
5 Comb wet hair like the pros: Hold a handful at a time and work from center to ends, then scalp to center. March 1963
Beautiful Brows
6 Soften skin before tweezing by dabbing with a cotton ball soaked in warm water or cream. April 1963
7 Tweeze in the direction the hair grows. April 1971
8 Don’t change the place where your brows peak and never pencil the whole brow. Instead, only fill in holes. November 1976
9 Use only the side of a sharpened brow pencil—not the pointed tip—so as not to draw a hard line. January 1938
10 For unruly brows, apply hairspray to an old toothbrush, then brush brows upward and outward. September 1992
Bright Eyes
11 Treat your eye area gently. This is the most delicate part of your face. Cleanse with care; blot, never rub. September 1961
12 Reduce puffy eyes by splashing with cold water or applying a cold compress (ice cubes in a washcloth): 15 seconds on, 15 seconds off. October 1987
13 When you put on mascara, don’t lower your chin—that’s how mascara gets on your lid. April 1971
14 Get eyeshadow to stay in place by priming lids with moisturizer and foundation. October 2011
15 Always use your ring finger to apply moisturizer or concealer to the eye area. It puts the least amount of pressure on the skin. November 1990
Pretty Face
16 Don’t touch your face unnecessarily. Breakouts can be caused by your own fingers. November 1963
17 Apply cream or cleanser by lightly pressing upward—never down. The delicate skin sags easily enough in time. April 1942
18 For the best color match, test foundation and powder either on your face or neck (the inside of your wrist is too pale). May 1990
19 Use foundation, not concealer (which is lighter than your skin color), to cover up redness or blemishes. February 1998
20 Rouge should be well-blended far out on the cheekbone; circles of rouge don’t look good on anyone. February 1938
Lovely Lips
21 Get lips soft and smooth by using a damp, warm washcloth at night to rub off the flaky dry bits; follow with a coat of lip balm. September 1998
22 Ease the evening switch to a redder or darker lipstick by applying it over and blending it into your daytime color. April 1992
23 To make lipstick last longer, allow it to set for a few minutes after applying, blot lips with tissue and dust them with powder, then apply another coat. April 1963
24 Cheeks feeling flushed? Put on a bold color lipstick; a neutral shade will only make red cheeks stand out. April 1969
25 For lipliner that glides on, warm it up first by pinching it with your fingertips. February 1998
Glowing Skin
26 The best time to apply lotion is right after a shower or bath, when skin is still damp. January 2006
27 When drawing a bath, scatter bubbles or crystals directly under the faucet before turning on the water, but drop in perfume oil while the tub is filling. November 1959
28 Beautiful skin starts from within. Include lots of vegetables, fruit and water in your diet. September 1961
29 Overdo it with your perfume? Dab rubbing alcohol with a cotton ball on your skin. The alcohol will cut the scent without altering it. September 1992
30 Microwave lotion for 5 seconds to soothe dry winter skin. February 2009
Smooth Legs
31 Improve circulation in your legs and lower the risk of unsightly veins by elevating your feet when resting. August 1942
32 Wait until after your shower to shave. The steam softens hairs for smoother results. July 2010
33 Don’t use creams that contain heavy fragrance or alpha hydroxy acids on freshly shaven legs. They’ll sting and cause a rash. July 1998
34 When applying “liquid stockings” [or today’s self-tanner], don’t forget the back of your knees, which are often missed. July 1945
35 Waxing your legs? Pull skin taut before applying the wax to make it easier to remove the strip in one clean motion. Remove leftover wax with a cotton ball dipped in baby oil. October 2011
Model-Like Hands
36 Shape nails with an emery board, filing sides toward center—never straight across—and rounding off edges. April 1944
37 What works for your face works for your hands. Remove age spots with facial brightening cream. October 2010
38 The fast way to remove nail polish: Hold cotton saturated with polish remover firmly on your nail for a few seconds to let it start working, then wipe nail clean. January 1944
39 Apply polish starting at the pinky, working toward the thumb to avoid dragging your hand across wet nails. April 1990
Happy Feet
40 To counteract dryness, massage feet with a lanolin-based lotion, kneading it deeply into your instep, then massage soles, heels, top surface and around nails. March 1959
41 Before using a pumice stone or foot file to remove a callus, be sure to soak your foot in warm water for at least 5 minutes. Follow with a little foot cream. June 2004
42 To prevent ingrown nails, trim toenails straight across, not down into the corners. March 1942
43 Relieve swollen feet by soaking them alternately in hot water (for 3 minutes), then cold water (for 1 minute), for a total of 15 minutes. April 1963
44 Use fresh pineapple or kiwi skins, which contain bromelain (a meat tenderizer), to exfoliate heels. Rub the fleshy part over heels for 5 minutes, then rinse, dry and moisturize. February 2009
Via Yahoo!
Monday, April 16, 2012
The 12 Most-Requested Celebrity Hairstyles From Coast to Coast
Whenever we ask top stylists for advice on getting the cut we want, they suggest bringing along an inspiration photo. And it seems like you've been following that advice: There is a wave of sought-after celebrity haircuts across the country. Here, what's hot from city to city—and how to ask for each look, no matter where you are.
NEW YORK
Nicole Richie's Wispy Bob
This city prides itself on being stylish—and this look fits right into that vibe without being (horrors!) fashion victim-y. "Clients tend to bring in pictures of Nicole Richie when they want to go short and chic, but not overly trendy," says New York City hairstylist Oscar Blandi, who first gave Richie the cut back in 2006.
What to ask for: Eye-grazing short layers with longer ones just below the jaw line. "Emphasize that you want an angular bob, but with soft lines that will not elongate your face," Blandi suggests.
LOS ANGELES
Michelle Williams's Pixie
California girls are going gamine, according to celebrity stylist Chris McMillan, who says the style is popular because Williams, his long-time client, makes it looks so effortless. "She's fashion-forward and has no problem going for it—people find that inspiring," says McMillan.
What to ask for: Show your stylist photos of the style from different angles so he can see the details of the sideburns, neck, and perimeter of the bangs. "The sideburns and edges should be softened, and the hair at the neckline should be short—it will elongate your neck," McMillan adds. Ask your stylist to keep the top layers in the front four or five inches long so you can muss up the hair for a more punk-rock look.Scroll upScroll down
CHICAGO
Adriana Lima's Sexy Waves
"I always ask, 'Do you want to look cute, or do you want to look sexy?' Nine times out of ten, they want to look sexy," says Marco Cardenas, hairstylist at Salon Rouge in Chicago. That's why voluminous, flowing waves like Adriana Lima's are coveted most. It's a versatile style, says Cardenas, and looks best if you have medium to thick hair that's shoulder-length or longer.
What to ask for: "Emphasize that you want face-framing layers, with some in the back for texture " says Cardenas. "But the key to this cut is really all around the face."
WASHINGTON, D.C.
Rihanna's Cropped Do
Our nation's capital is leading the way in asymmetrical, androgynous styles like Rihanna's from 2008, according to Kelly Gorsuch, hairstylist at Immortal Beloved in Washington, D.C. "It's more about the overall vibe rather than a specific shape or technique," he says. "The only thing you need to pull it off is a healthy dose of confidence."
What to ask for: The key feature here is the juxtaposition of pieces that are short underneath with ones that are longer on top. Ask your stylist to section off the longer pieces at the top, then cut the opposite side very short, all the way to the deep side part, "until there's a strong disconnection between the two sections," says Gorsuch. "The hair can be swept to the side or worn up and back, which lends itself to a little more drama."Scroll upScroll down
SEATTLE
Zooey Deschanel's Wide, Blunt Bangs
Seattleites generally avoid high-maintenance hair, according to Jenny Slay, senior hairstylist at Vain Salon. "It's rainy and wet up here, and people don't spend a ton of time styling their hair," she says. "Aside from being so cute, this style looks finished whether you let it air-dry or you blow it out."
What to ask for: Tailor it to your face shape. "I'd narrow the width of the bangs if you're worried about your face looking too round or too wide," adds Slay.
SAN FRANCISCO
Drew Barrymoree's Textured Layers
Barrymore's medium-long style speaks to San Francisco because "it screams youth and versatility," says local salon owner Joseph Cozza. It's ideal for those with oval-and heart-shaped faces and medium-fine hair with a little wave to it.
What to ask for: "The key feature is blended layers at the collarbone, with the shortest layers falling between the mouth and the cheekbones, so you can tuck it behind your ear," says Cozza.
PHILADELPHIA
Jennifer Aniston's Shoulder-Grazing Shag
Laurentius Purnama of the Laurentius Salon in Philadelphia says Aniston's all-American style is a big hit in his town—especially this shoulder-grazing shag. "My clients love that its relaxed but sophisticated at the same time," he says. It's ideal for straight hair, but those with an especially fine texture should be wary of this style, as too many layers can thin out their hair.
What to ask for: The key to this look, says Purnama, is the "textured, contoured effect of the face-framing layers." He suggests avoiding razor cutting, which would make it too angular. Those pining for Aniston's locks should also keep this in mind that "the length of this cut is very specific and requires a once-a-month trim to keep the ends fresh. On the other hand, it's easy to grow out and has no awkward transition stages. Another reason to love it!"
DALLAS
Brooklyn Decker's Bob
Brooklyn Decker's short style is a big hit down south, says Dallas-based hairstylist Charlie Price. "She makes it look so versatile—it seems different every time you see it," he says. While it works with most hair textures, people with especially round and square faces should steer clear.
What to ask for: "The longest layer should fall between the Adam's apple and the collarbone," says Price. Be sure to ask for squared-off layers with minimal texture—overtexturizing will mess with the shape, and it'll lose its easy, breezy vibe.
BOSTON
Reese Witherspoon's Fringe
"We get a lot of requests for blondes," says Marisa Marino, hairstylist at Stilisti of Boston. "And Reese's cut and color complement each other, so she always pops up no matter what. Her bangs are the perfect length for her face shape, and they're weighty without looking heavy." Those with corkscrew curls should avoid this, adds Marino, because the bangs would be nearly impossible to maintain.
What to ask for: "Make sure your stylist knows that you're committed to the result, so he's not gun-shy about cutting thicker bangs," says Marino. "I've seen stylists be too conservative and make the bangs too wispy and veil-like. Let them know they should go for it." Also ask your stylist how far back he plans to take the bangs section—if he goes too far back, you risk having pieces fall to the side rather than on your forehead.
ATLANTA
Heidi Klum's Soft Waves
The "404" is obsessed with Klum's tousled waves, says Spencer Malay, hairstylist and owner of Spencer Malay Hair & Med Spa in Atlanta. "It's easy to maintain and always looks sexy. To style, all you have to do is take five or six thick sections of hair and wrap them around a curling iron or hot rollers, and finish with a light hair spray," he says.
What to ask for: "Mention that you want soft layers with a beachy texture and face-framing pieces," suggests Malay. Definitely avoid short layers—aim for the shortest piece to align with your chin.
DETROIT
Jennifer Lopez's Long Layers
American Idol fans can attest to the fact that J.Lo is adventurous when it comes to her hair—she's constantly morphing from ponytails to chignons, and from wavy to stick-straight looks. "People are drawn to her hair because it's not overly layered and it's long enough that you can wear it so many different ways," says Katrina Malota, hairstylist at Luigi Bruni Salon in Detroit.
What to ask for: "The bangs situation is the most crucial thing about this cut—it's where the layers start," says Malota. "As a rule of thumb, women with curly hair should start below the nose and down, depending on the length of the hair." Women with straight hair can start above the nose to add a little volume. Stagger the layers so they're not so connected and not evenly matched—the back crown area needs to stay long, or you'll risk a mushroom effect.
MIAMI
Kim Kardashian's Shiny Waves
Kourtney and Khloé took Miami, but Kim's hair made the biggest impression. "My clients love her long, healthy waves and rich color," says Pascal Bodin, hairstylist at Vidal Sassoon in Miami. "They also want her hair's shine, softness, and lack of frizz, which is definitely appealing to anyone dealing with Miami's humidity!"
What to ask for: "It's rare to find a natural texture that mimics Kim's exactly, but you should ask your stylist to keep your hair long and slightly angled at the front. A slight graduation at the front is enough to accomplish this desired look since you want to keep the heaviness on the outside line, as well as in the layers to keep the luster."
Via Allure
NEW YORK
Nicole Richie's Wispy Bob
This city prides itself on being stylish—and this look fits right into that vibe without being (horrors!) fashion victim-y. "Clients tend to bring in pictures of Nicole Richie when they want to go short and chic, but not overly trendy," says New York City hairstylist Oscar Blandi, who first gave Richie the cut back in 2006.
What to ask for: Eye-grazing short layers with longer ones just below the jaw line. "Emphasize that you want an angular bob, but with soft lines that will not elongate your face," Blandi suggests.
LOS ANGELES
Michelle Williams's Pixie
California girls are going gamine, according to celebrity stylist Chris McMillan, who says the style is popular because Williams, his long-time client, makes it looks so effortless. "She's fashion-forward and has no problem going for it—people find that inspiring," says McMillan.
What to ask for: Show your stylist photos of the style from different angles so he can see the details of the sideburns, neck, and perimeter of the bangs. "The sideburns and edges should be softened, and the hair at the neckline should be short—it will elongate your neck," McMillan adds. Ask your stylist to keep the top layers in the front four or five inches long so you can muss up the hair for a more punk-rock look.Scroll upScroll down
CHICAGO
Adriana Lima's Sexy Waves
"I always ask, 'Do you want to look cute, or do you want to look sexy?' Nine times out of ten, they want to look sexy," says Marco Cardenas, hairstylist at Salon Rouge in Chicago. That's why voluminous, flowing waves like Adriana Lima's are coveted most. It's a versatile style, says Cardenas, and looks best if you have medium to thick hair that's shoulder-length or longer.
What to ask for: "Emphasize that you want face-framing layers, with some in the back for texture " says Cardenas. "But the key to this cut is really all around the face."
WASHINGTON, D.C.
Rihanna's Cropped Do
Our nation's capital is leading the way in asymmetrical, androgynous styles like Rihanna's from 2008, according to Kelly Gorsuch, hairstylist at Immortal Beloved in Washington, D.C. "It's more about the overall vibe rather than a specific shape or technique," he says. "The only thing you need to pull it off is a healthy dose of confidence."
What to ask for: The key feature here is the juxtaposition of pieces that are short underneath with ones that are longer on top. Ask your stylist to section off the longer pieces at the top, then cut the opposite side very short, all the way to the deep side part, "until there's a strong disconnection between the two sections," says Gorsuch. "The hair can be swept to the side or worn up and back, which lends itself to a little more drama."Scroll upScroll down
SEATTLE
Zooey Deschanel's Wide, Blunt Bangs
Seattleites generally avoid high-maintenance hair, according to Jenny Slay, senior hairstylist at Vain Salon. "It's rainy and wet up here, and people don't spend a ton of time styling their hair," she says. "Aside from being so cute, this style looks finished whether you let it air-dry or you blow it out."
What to ask for: Tailor it to your face shape. "I'd narrow the width of the bangs if you're worried about your face looking too round or too wide," adds Slay.
SAN FRANCISCO
Drew Barrymoree's Textured Layers
Barrymore's medium-long style speaks to San Francisco because "it screams youth and versatility," says local salon owner Joseph Cozza. It's ideal for those with oval-and heart-shaped faces and medium-fine hair with a little wave to it.
What to ask for: "The key feature is blended layers at the collarbone, with the shortest layers falling between the mouth and the cheekbones, so you can tuck it behind your ear," says Cozza.
PHILADELPHIA
Jennifer Aniston's Shoulder-Grazing Shag
Laurentius Purnama of the Laurentius Salon in Philadelphia says Aniston's all-American style is a big hit in his town—especially this shoulder-grazing shag. "My clients love that its relaxed but sophisticated at the same time," he says. It's ideal for straight hair, but those with an especially fine texture should be wary of this style, as too many layers can thin out their hair.
What to ask for: The key to this look, says Purnama, is the "textured, contoured effect of the face-framing layers." He suggests avoiding razor cutting, which would make it too angular. Those pining for Aniston's locks should also keep this in mind that "the length of this cut is very specific and requires a once-a-month trim to keep the ends fresh. On the other hand, it's easy to grow out and has no awkward transition stages. Another reason to love it!"
DALLAS
Brooklyn Decker's Bob
Brooklyn Decker's short style is a big hit down south, says Dallas-based hairstylist Charlie Price. "She makes it look so versatile—it seems different every time you see it," he says. While it works with most hair textures, people with especially round and square faces should steer clear.
What to ask for: "The longest layer should fall between the Adam's apple and the collarbone," says Price. Be sure to ask for squared-off layers with minimal texture—overtexturizing will mess with the shape, and it'll lose its easy, breezy vibe.
BOSTON
Reese Witherspoon's Fringe
"We get a lot of requests for blondes," says Marisa Marino, hairstylist at Stilisti of Boston. "And Reese's cut and color complement each other, so she always pops up no matter what. Her bangs are the perfect length for her face shape, and they're weighty without looking heavy." Those with corkscrew curls should avoid this, adds Marino, because the bangs would be nearly impossible to maintain.
What to ask for: "Make sure your stylist knows that you're committed to the result, so he's not gun-shy about cutting thicker bangs," says Marino. "I've seen stylists be too conservative and make the bangs too wispy and veil-like. Let them know they should go for it." Also ask your stylist how far back he plans to take the bangs section—if he goes too far back, you risk having pieces fall to the side rather than on your forehead.
ATLANTA
Heidi Klum's Soft Waves
The "404" is obsessed with Klum's tousled waves, says Spencer Malay, hairstylist and owner of Spencer Malay Hair & Med Spa in Atlanta. "It's easy to maintain and always looks sexy. To style, all you have to do is take five or six thick sections of hair and wrap them around a curling iron or hot rollers, and finish with a light hair spray," he says.
What to ask for: "Mention that you want soft layers with a beachy texture and face-framing pieces," suggests Malay. Definitely avoid short layers—aim for the shortest piece to align with your chin.
DETROIT
Jennifer Lopez's Long Layers
American Idol fans can attest to the fact that J.Lo is adventurous when it comes to her hair—she's constantly morphing from ponytails to chignons, and from wavy to stick-straight looks. "People are drawn to her hair because it's not overly layered and it's long enough that you can wear it so many different ways," says Katrina Malota, hairstylist at Luigi Bruni Salon in Detroit.
What to ask for: "The bangs situation is the most crucial thing about this cut—it's where the layers start," says Malota. "As a rule of thumb, women with curly hair should start below the nose and down, depending on the length of the hair." Women with straight hair can start above the nose to add a little volume. Stagger the layers so they're not so connected and not evenly matched—the back crown area needs to stay long, or you'll risk a mushroom effect.
MIAMI
Kim Kardashian's Shiny Waves
Kourtney and Khloé took Miami, but Kim's hair made the biggest impression. "My clients love her long, healthy waves and rich color," says Pascal Bodin, hairstylist at Vidal Sassoon in Miami. "They also want her hair's shine, softness, and lack of frizz, which is definitely appealing to anyone dealing with Miami's humidity!"
What to ask for: "It's rare to find a natural texture that mimics Kim's exactly, but you should ask your stylist to keep your hair long and slightly angled at the front. A slight graduation at the front is enough to accomplish this desired look since you want to keep the heaviness on the outside line, as well as in the layers to keep the luster."
Via Allure
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