Month: July 2020

The Benefits of Aloe Vera

Graphic illustrating potential health benefits of aloe vera, including stabilizing blood sugar, supporting skin hydration, soothing sunburn, and helping treat acne.

You’ve probably seen an aloe vera plant somewhere high and dry in the desert before and wondered what it is about that specific succulent that people can’t seem to get over. It’s on the front label of so many lotions and gels at the drug store and you’ve even heard of some people drinking its juice?! What’s up with that?

There are many benefits of aloe vera from its moisturizing capabilities to its healing powers, and it’s high time you become aware of them. Why does it seem to be a key ingredient in so many lotions, conditioners and balms? Why does everyone reach for a bottle after a wicked sunburn? We’re going to explore the many benefits of aloe vera usage and the plentiful ways you can apply it to your daily routine whether it’s for your skin’s benefit, to soothe your digestion or to increase your wellness in other ways.

From the juice to the gels and the plant itself, there are many ways to enjoy and reap the benefits of the aloe vera plant. We’ll cover them all and point to a few products we love that’ll give you a chance to make aloe a key healing modality in your kitchen, bathroom cabinet and beyond.

What is Aloe Vera?

Aloe vera is a succulent plant with many medicinal and healing qualities that can aid your body internally and externally. Known for its thick, fleshy green leaves aloe vera stores water in its tissues that turns into the gel we’re all familiar with. This gel contains bioactive compounds that are packed with vitamins, amino acids, antioxidants and minerals. Each leaf can grow up to 12-19 inches in length, giving you plenty to work with.

You can buy your own aloe vera plant and harvest the gel directly from the plant or buy it in gel form or mixed in with lotions and conditioners to receive the benefit that way.

Benefits of Aloe Use

Aloe is a powerful medicinal plant in that it can be used both topically directly from the plant and internally as a medicine taken orally. 

1. Aloe Soothes Burns

Aloe has naturally cooling and soothing qualities that make it a great topical treatment for sunburn, cooking burns and other skin ailments. It can be applied directly out of a leaf from your plant at home or bought at the drug store. Applying aloe a few times a day may help soothe burns and help the damaged skin heal faster, while also providing some relief from the pain and irritation.

2. Aloe Moisturizes Your Skin

The aloe vera plant is great at storing water in order to survive and thrive in the hot, dry and unstable climates it’s used to existing in. The water-dense leaves also contain complex carbohydrates in them that help skin absorb and retain the moisture as well. Aloe is great for applying to burnt and damaged skin but can also be used everyday by itself or in a lotion to keep skin supple and healthy.

Aloe vera is also an active ingredient in many shampoos designed to ease dandruff due to its moisturizing capabilities.

3. The Aloe Vera Plant Has Antibacterial Properties

Aloe vera contains antioxidants that are under the polyphenol umbrella of substances which may inhibit the growth of infection-causing bacteria in humans. We’re not saying it should replace your antibiotics, but it’s no friend of germs. That’s why humans have used aloe vera to treat wounds and burns for thousands of years, all thanks to its moisturizing capabilities as well as the antiviral, antibacterial and antiseptic properties it possesses.

4. Aloe Vera May Provide Heartburn Relief

Aloe vera has low toxicity and studies have shown that it’s a great natural remedy for GERD or Gastroesophageal reflux disease that often causes heartburn as a symptom. Consuming 1-3 ounces at mealtime may limit this acid reflux and limit heartburn as it eases digestive troubles in general. Consuming aloe gel can happen via a liquid or in capsule form for convenience.

5. Aloe Vera May Help Your Digestion System

Regularly consuming aloe vera, rather than applying it topically to your skin, may aid in a healthy digestive system and ease symptoms of IBS (irritable bowel syndrome). Studies have shown that aloe vera has significantly improved symptoms of IBS when compared with a placebo with little to no adverse effects. The natural remedy may diminish the growth of H. pylori a bacteria that can cause ulcers in the digestive tract.

6. Aloe Vera May Help Keep Produce Fresh

Aloe vera may help fruits and vegetables stay fresher, longer through providing a coating against certain harmful bacteria that would otherwise grow and harm the produce. The high concentration of vitamins and enzymes in the natural, gentle formula also can help boost your plant’s immune system and help it ward off pests and other harmful pathogens. Many plant experts recommend applying gel straight from the aloe vera plant to your watering routine in order to fortify your plant’s soil with all of the benefits of aloe vera.

7. Aloe Vera for Oral Health

Aloe vera natural toothpaste and mouthwash have become trendy alternative options for taking care of oral hygiene, getting rid of plaque and lowering levels of candida and gingivitis. Aloe vera has natural antimicrobial properties that may be contributing to this as well as the high levels of vitamin C which can block the growth of plaque. It can also speed up the healing of cuts in your mouth, bleeding or swollen gums.

8. Aloe Vera’s Effects on Blood Sugar

Aloe vera juice may benefit individuals with diabetes. According to a study published in the International Journal of Phytotherapy and Phytomedicine, consuming two tablespoons of aloe vera juice per day can lower blood sugar levels in patients with type 2 diabetes. The results of this study were also confirmed by another study with similar results. This could make aloe vera a pivotal part of alternative diabetes treatment in the future.

9. Aloe Vera Benefits for Acne

Acne is a tricky business, and aloe vera may be able to help. It’s all about finding what works for you and if you haven’t tried remedies with a key ingredient of aloe vera, it might be time to try. Aloe vera has moisturizing effects for skin as well as soothing effects in the form of toners, creams and cleansers. These products may be less irritating than products with harsher ingredients. In fact, a 2014 study found that using a cream with aloe vera in combination with conventional acne medication was more effective in treating mild to moderate acne and produced lower levels of inflammation and fewer lesions.

Article by Taylor Galla for SPY©

Turn a Box of Blueberries Into 8 Healthy Breakfasts


Summertime is the season for fresh fruits, and blueberries are among the best when it comes to serving up scrumptious flavor and good-for-you nutrients.

Loaded with vitamins A, C, potassium and folate, one cup of blueberries offers up nearly 4 grams of gut-supporting fiber (that’s 14 percent of your daily value) for just 84 calories, per the USDA.

“Blueberries have a water content greater than 80 percent, which can help you maintain your hydration levels,” says May Zhu, RDN, LDN, founder of Nutrition Happens. This is especially important on hot summer days when you sweat a lot and your body needs extra fluids.

What’s more, these small but mighty berries are a good source of polyphenols and flavonoids, including anthocyanins — an antioxidant with anti-inflammatory properties — which is linked to helping decrease the risk for heart disease and improving brain function, Zhu says.

Ready to reap the big gains of these tiny berries? From muffins to smoothies and parfaits, these eight healthy breakfast recipes are stuffed with juicy, fresh blueberries to brighten up your mornings.

1. Blueberry Protein Power Smoothie

This blueberry smoothie serves up a stellar serving of protein. Image Credit: pilipphoto/Adobe Stock

This blueberry smoothie will give you a reason to rise and shine.

“At 350 calories, and with a whopping 32 grams of muscle-building protein per serving, it’s the optimal brekkie option after your a.m. workout. Just remember, “When choosing a protein powder, make sure to check the label and opt for a version without additional added sugars,” Zhu says.

2. Blueberry-Banana Protein Muffins

Protein powder and Greek yogurt supply 20 grams of protein for one serving of these not-so-average morning muffins. Image Credit: fahrwasser/ Adobe Stock

“At 8 grams of sugar, plus, the high-fiber whole-food ingredients including blueberries, whole-wheat flour and bananas all serve as sources of prebiotics, which are foods that can help support the probiotics we eat in our diets for good gut health, Zhu says.

To better balance out the macronutrients in this recipe, Zhu recommends pairing this with one tablespoon of nut butter to provide an additional fat source, a hard-boiled egg for more protein or, alternatively, an extra cup of fruit to increase fiber.

3. Steel-Cut Oatmeal Berry Breakfast Bake

This blueberry breakfast bake is a fresh way to eat your morning oats. Image Credit: LIVESTRONG.com

“This breakfast bake is brimming with beneficial ingredients such as oatmeal and quinoa, both a good source of fiber to support digestion, and fresh fruits like bananas, blueberries and raspberries, which all contain a diverse, varied amounts of vitamins and minerals that work together to promote good health,” Zhu says.

“Alternatively, if you want to reduce the overall calories and fat, try swapping the full-fat dairy milk for an unsweetened almond or soymilk,” she adds.

4. Chia and Quinoa Blueberry Breakfast Parfait

This parfait combines superfoods like chia seeds, quinoa and blueberries for a brilliant breakfast .Image Credit: LIVESTRONG.com

There’s good reason why parfaits have become a staple breakfast food — and this one, layered with nutritious ingredients, is the prime example.

The combination of blueberries and chia seeds provide a solid source of healthy omega-3 fatty acids, which may help support your body’s response to inflammation, Zhu says

With a jaw-dropping 17 grams of fiber, this recipe will certainly stave off the stomach rumbles until your midday meal. But keep in mind: “When you’re eating more or introducing more fiber-rich foods into your diet, make sure you’re also drinking extra water to help support your digestion,” Zhu says.

5. No-Flour Blueberry and Oatmeal Three-Minute Microwave Muffin

Ready in three minutes, this microwaveable muffin helps simplify hectic mornings. Image Credit: Getty Images

Ideal for busy mornings, it only takes three minutes in the microwave to make this healthy blueberry oatmeal muffin.

Oatmeal is a great base for this single-serve muffin because it’s a stellar source of soluble fiber, which research shows may help to lower cholesterol and support heart health, Zhu says.

6. Creamy Berry Quinoa Parfait

Greek yogurt and quinoa pack this blueberry parfait with plenty of protein. Image Credit: LIVESTRONG.com

Greek yogurt and quinoa are all stars in this simple yet satisfying breakfast parfait with 25 grams of protein per serving.

Containing all nine essential amino acids, quinoa is a particularly important plant-based food for those who don’t eat animal protein and a good option for those with gluten intolerances since it’s naturally gluten-free, Zhu says.

Meanwhile the walnuts in this recipe provide “prebiotics to feed the good bacteria (probiotics) found in the Greek yogurt and support a healthy digestive system,” she adds.

7. Whole-Wheat Blueberry Protein Muffins

These healthier, homemade blueberry muffins have the ideal combination of fiber, protein and healthy fats. Image Credit: LIVESTRONG.com

If you’re concerned about calories, a simple swap is the solution: “One cup of applesauce can be used as a full substitute for the half cup of vegetable oil to reduce fat and offer additional fiber and nutrients,” Zhu says. When shopping for applesauce, always opt for unsweetened varieties without extra sugars.

You can further boost the nutritional profile of baked goods like this muffin by incorporating seeds like flax, chia or hemp for extra fiber and plant protein, Zhu adds.

8. Blueberry Chia Jam

You only need blueberries, chia seeds and clementine to whip us this healthy, homemade jam. Image Credit: Sarah Pflugradt, RDN/LIVESTRONG.com

This jaw-droppingly delicious jam is jam-packed with nutrients and filling fiber thanks to three simple ingredients — blueberries, chia seeds and clementines.

“As far as jams go, this homemade version is low in sugar and a great way to utilize the natural sweetness of blueberries,” Zhu says. In comparison, just one tablespoon of store-bought blueberry jam serves up 7 sugars (more than twice the amount for only half the serving of the natural homemade stuff).

Spread this jam on a slice of whole-grain sprouted bread with a spoonful of almond butter or layer it into a parfait with Greek yogurt for protein, Zhu recommends. Every half-cup of plain Greek yogurt provides around 20 grams of protein.

By Jaime Osnato for Livestrong.com©

Title Image Credit: GEOLEE/iStock/GettyImage

5 Things to Remember If You’re Working Remotely Right Now

Months ago, millions of us packed up whatever gear we could grab from the office, went home, and, overnight, began life as remote workers. From taking regular breaks to sticking to a schedule to establishing a dedicated workspace, there are plenty of strategies for making working from homework. But there’s a huge difference between choosing to go remote and being forced to do so during an emergency. As remote work becomes more of a long-term or even permanent situation, what can we do to prevent burnout? We got experts to give us their best tips, advice, and things to keep in mind.

1. Take the plunge and invest in a more comfortable set-up

If you’ve spent the last few months hunched over the kitchen table or curled up on the couch, avoiding investing in home office gear in hopes you’d get back to the real office soon, it might be time to reconsider. Even after just a short time, your body may be feeling the effects (stiff neck, back, and shoulders, anyone?). “The ergonomics of home offices are absolutely horrible,” according to Laurel Farrer, founder of the Remote Work Association. “There are hundreds of rules that go into keeping us healthy and safe at [on-site] work, from which watt of the lightbulb is used, to the length of carpet and how high desks are. When we go home, we don’t know what those are or that we should be implementing them,” potentially putting our health at risk. 

Farrer, who also runs Distribute Consulting from her home in Connecticut, said it can be liberating to realize that we don’t need a lot of office odds and ends we thought we did, from stodgy office furniture to giant file cabinets. But making sure your pared-down remote set-up supports your well-being is still critical (see how yours measures up with this checklist from the National Institutes of Health). And you don’t necessarily have to spend a lot to feel better. “Small, simple, and cheap changes,” she said, like putting your laptop on top of a box (to raise it closer to eye level) or simply standing up more, can make a real difference. If you are ready to invest, though, Farrer suggested a riser or standing desk of some sort for your laptop, plus a real keyboard and mouse. Some fun extras? Arranging a good video call backdrop, and buying a good microphone and ring light, “things we’ve never thought about before” that can make video meetings look way more professional.

2. Continue to reinforce boundaries, but remember to (virtually) socialize 

“You wouldn’t barge into someone’s office and expect them to drop everything they are doing for you,” a teammate once told Julie Chabin, who heads product design at Product Hunt and YourStack remotely from Paris. It’s the same with remote work. In the virtual workplace, with requests cascading in through email, instant messages, and calls, “it’s OK to say ‘thank you, I’ll take a look at this after I’m done with my current task,’ when you get a notification,” advised Chabin, who has worked remotely for five years. 

That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t connect with colleagues. It just has to be more intentional, said Daisy Chang, professor of organizational psychology at Michigan State University. Though she misses walking down the hall to chat with colleagues and checking in with her graduate students in person, her department, like all newly remote teams, have to carve out time to “talk to each other, exchange ideas, maintain social connection” and get support virtually. From scheduling chats to more formal ways of getting on the same page, like syncing digital calendars to focus on a project at the same time, Chang said it’s important, especially for people who particularly crave in-person connection, “to find ways to inject that back into their work life.”

3. Over-communicate and be proactive 

A lot can get lost virtually, especially when the shift happens abruptly, so it’s important to be super clear when discussing a project, idea, or request with coworkers. “In remote work, over-communication is just communication,” said Farrer. Even if it feels like you’re talking a ton and over-explaining, keep at it. “That’s how you stay connected.”

Something both Chang and Farrer agree on is the need to be proactive, especially if a new colleague joins virtually or you’re the newbie yourself. Managers and companies should ideally be providing training and channels to get to know people, but some are still playing catch-up with the remote situation, too. In the meantime, “we really have to rely on ourselves,” said Farrer, whether that’s mustering the courage to hit “send” on an email to a potential mentor or simply scheduling a virtual coffee chat with someone you don’t know well. 

4. Mix things up 

Hated your hours or dress code? More productive in the early mornings? One benefit to remote work is that, on your own turf, there are opportunities to make your job work better for you. “We all sort of fall into a routine, something that’s comfortable, but it doesn’t hurt to learn new habits or change it up,” said Chang, who also suggested sharing what worked or didn’t with coworkers, from blocking out mornings for focused work to changing up your online hours. 

After all, Farrer said, “you don’t have your employer sitting next to you telling you what to do,” so it’s important to work on being more self-reliant when it comes to getting things done and how you do them. Employees (even those with amazing supervisors) have to “take initiative to be their own boss for a little while,” making calls about what works for them.  

5. Embrace kindness and vulnerability 

It’s time for us to get real at work—at least a little bit. While keeping things professional is paramount, it’s important to recognize that everyone has their own struggles and personal demands, especially now. “The reality of working from home is it’s not all sunshine and rainbows all the time,” Farrer said, even in normal times. Being yourself and being open “is how you create a sense of culture in a remote team.” (In fact, Chang said, a number of studies show that being allowed to be your authentic self at work may lead to higher performance and engagement while feeling inauthentic at work can lead to burnout). 

“It’s essential to care about people, genuinely. Ask them how they are doing, let them be people, not just colleagues or clients,” Chabin said. “We all have families, pets, children… it’s okay to have candid conversations.” And if you’re a freelancer or solo business owner, it may be helpful to find people in your field to reach out to for that same sort of support. 

If you’re not ready to open up or your company’s culture doesn’t allow for it, acts of kindness can go a long way virtually. Whether that’s shouting out someone’s success with a client, or recognizing a birthday or work milestone, Chabin suggested, these simple acts still go a long way toward building trust. Extend those kindnesses to yourself—this is an incredibly difficult time for everyone (even remote work experts. If self-care has slipped as the months have gone on, recommit to claiming those extra hours you spent commuting as personal time, Chabin emphasized, whether that’s reading a book, working out, going for a walk, chatting with family or trying out a 15-step skincare routine. 

If you’re struggling with remote life or feeling burnout creep in, above all, it’s important to remember: “This is not working remotely,” Farrer said, “this is trying to maintain economic and business continuity during a global crisis.”

Source: theeverygirl.com/working-remotely/

Dr. Pimple Popper’s summertime skincare routine

Yes, there really is a Dr. Pimple Popper. She has a tv show and YouTube channel that features a segment on removing a cyst. And here she is:

Dr. Sandra Lee, a California-based dermatologist who is also known as Dr. Pimple Popper, has tailored her skincare routine for summertime concerns, like extra sun and oily skin.

  • She uses a powder sunscreen, face wash, and dark spot treatment daily.
  • She also abstains from putting makeup on the lower half of her face to prevent bacteria buildup and breakouts while wearing a face mask.

Dr. Pimple Popper has dedicated her career to treating the blackheads, cysts, and lipomas of people across the country, so it only makes sense she’s perfected her own skincare routine.

In the summer, the dermatologist, whose real name is Dr. Sandra Lee, told Insider that she adds a few extra products to account for the extra sun and heat that can lead to sunburns, wrinkles, and acne.

She alternates between two face washes, including one from the drugstore.

Lee washes her face daily. If she feels like her skin is in need of exfoliation, she uses her own skincare line’s salicylic acid cleanser, and if her skin feels dry, she uses a drugstore favorite: Cerave’s Hydrating Facial Cleanser.

Dr. Pimple Popper prefers a mineral-powder sunscreen.

Dr. Pimple Popper always uses an SPF-containing product to protect her skin from the sun.

She told Insider that even those who spend lots of time indoors should use a sunscreen, since the wrinkle-causing rays can get through windows and affect your skin.

Lee prefers a mineral sunscreen in powder form because it “keeps my skin protected from sunburn and more severe skin damage like signs of aging and skin cancer.” The powder formula also reduces shine if you have an oily complexion.

She uses her skincare line’s SLMD UV Bounce powder sunscreen because it comes in an-easy-to-use brush that she can take anywhere and reapply.

She treats existing dark spots.

But Lee’s skin isn’t spot-free, so she incorporates a dark-spot corrector to treat discolored areas on her face.

“I have been incorporating a skin color correction cream I created, Dark Spot Fix, which helps improve the appearance of any discoloration resulting from acne, sun damage, and melasma,” she said.

Minimal makeup prevents facemask acne

Recently, Lee has considered how the coronavirus pandemic could affect her skin and adjusted her routine accordingly.

“During the day, because of having to wear a mask, I try to wear minimal face makeup,” Lee said, because it prevents bacterial buildup in the pores that can lead to acne.

She only puts makeup on the top half of her face and keeps acne wipes with exfoliating ingredients on hand so she can remove any dirt or other debris that may have settled into her skin while wearing her mask.

Article by insider@insider.com (Julia Naftulin)  

Oprah Winfrey’s Advice for Success

    Oprah Winfrey’s secrets to success

    Oprah Winfrey is royalty among the world of celebrities—highly-respected, the image of grace and class, and a true role model. As a TV host, CEO, author, actor, producer, and philanthropist, it seems she’s won every outstanding achievement award under the sun, and luckily, she’s also one of the most relatable and accessible billionaires out there, having shared so much of herself with the public over the years.

    Beginning as a low-income woman of color, she’s had a tumultuous ride filled with hardships and breaking points. Check out the most valuable pieces of advice that have paved her path to success. 

    When people show you who they are, believe them

    Winfrey has said that this is her favorite piece of advice—a lesson she learned the hard way about a partner, with the help of Maya Angelou—that if someone shows you they are untrustworthy, selfish, etc, believe them the first time.

    Be authentic

    Winfrey is someone who constantly seeks self-improvement through a relentless examination of her own life, but it took her some time to first realize that people just wanted her as she is. “I had no idea that being your authentic self could make me as rich as I’ve become. If I had, I’d have done it a lot earlier.”

    Fight prejudice with excellence

    In a field of white male news anchors, a black woman who didn’t fit beauty standards was an easy target for prejudice. But she was the best at what she did, and made her talent impossible to deny: “Excellence is the best deterrent to racism or sexism.”

    Find the good in the bad

    Winfrey’s past is full of unimaginable struggle—she grew up poor, was sexually abused as a child, and had a son at the age of 14 who died in infancy—but she credits these events for giving her more capacity to relate to the pain of others. “Turn your wounds into wisdom,” as she says.

    The “power of service”

    For her commencement address at Smith College, she advised students to focus on how they can serve. She wants you to ask yourself, “How can I be used?”

    There’s no such thing as failure

    “Go ahead. Fall down. The world looks different from the ground.” Winfrey looks at what most people consider failure to be a chance at seeing things from a new perspective, learning a new lesson, or finding a new route. She told Harvard’s 2013 graduating class that “failure is just life trying to move us in another direction.”

    Challenge the status quo

    Obedience we learn in school is sometimes the antithesis to success in business, and Winfrey is a great example of that. At her first job as a news anchor, she didn’t read the news in a dry, objective tone as everyone else did, but rather delivered emotion and empathy. It was a risk, but producers and audiences loved it.

    Believe in the “why”

    If you don’t know why you’re doing your job, it will not give you fulfillment. Understanding the “why” behind the “doing” gives both you and the work meaning, which is why Winfrey advises you only do things in alignment with your truth.

    Try, try again

    Winfrey encourages everyone to run head-on towards the thing they’re scared they cannot do, and to keep trying after they fail. “Do the one thing you think you cannot do. Fail at it. Try again. Do better.”

    Article by Stars Insider©

    How to Grow Hair Faster So It’s Longer and Stronger

     

    Hair never seems to grow more slowly than when you need it to do the exact opposite. If you’re wondering how to grow hair faster, the first thing to keep in mind is that there’s no sudden miracle cure for transitioning between hairstyles or growing out an unfortunate chop overnight. On average, you should expect a maximum half inch of new growth per month—and that’s under the healthiest conditions. Due to factors like breakage or diet, it can easily be less. In other words, have plenty of patience.

    The good news: There are plenty of easy steps that can make a big difference in ensuring you do reach that half inch every month. Growing your hair out requires a twofold approach. First, you have to reduce damage throughout the hair shaft to prevent hair loss and growth-slowing breakage. And second, you need an optimal growing environment at the root, while also leaving certain things (like color and trims) in the hands of experienced professionals. Below, hair and scalp experts weigh in on the 15 most effective things you can do to get those follicles (gradually) moving. Here’s their best advice on how to grow hair faster.

    1. Put down the scissors and ask for “health trims.”

    Says celebrity hairstylist Justine Marjan, let it grow out until you can (or feel safe enough to) book a salon appointment again. Once you do, she recommends asking for a “health trim”—in other words, letting your hairstylist know you are growing out your hair and only want to cut the split ends while still maintaining length.

    “If the goal is to grow out your hair, patience is key,” she says. “Get trims two or three times a year, or more frequently if your hair is damaged or you color it regularly.”

    2. Take a break from bleaching.

    “I like to say your hair can be short and blonde or long and dark, but you can’t have both,” says Marjan. Regularly bleaching and highlighting your hair can easily lead to over-processing, which causes breakage and makes it much harder for hair to grow out. Marjan recommends switching to darker colors during your grow-out phase and opting for demi- or semi-permanent colors at the salon, which won’t cause unnecessary damage.

    3. Try a clarifying shampoo or scalp scrub.

    Your scalp condition is crucial to growing your hair—not just faster, but also healthier and stronger. According to dermatologist Ava Shamban, M.D., you can improve scalp health by creating a clear surface with clarifying ingredients. “Like your face, your scalp experiences a great deal of environmentally induced inflammation,” she says. “Keeping follicles clean prevents oil build up or clogging.”

    Shamban recommends any scalp scrub formulas with salicylic acid (which strips away the outer layer of cells and sebum buildup) and glycolic acid (which penetrates even more deeply). You can also try making your own using sugar, olive oil, honey, and apple cider vinegar. Or, simply incorporate a once-weekly shampoo that’s equal parts clarifying and hydrating.

    4. Choose haircare products with targeted ingredients.

    Beyond your once-weekly clarifying shampoo or scrub, it’s also helpful to look for topicals that can maintain your hair health in between. Kerry Yates, scalp health expert and founder of Colour Collective, always recommends a select group of anti-inflammatory botanicals. “Aloe vera instantly soothes and conditions without negatively impacting sebum production,” she says. “Fenugreek is rich in niacin, which can increase blood flow to the follicle. Chamomile is a natural calming agent for scalp sensitivities, and honey helps ward off bacterial growth on your scalp.”

    5. Space out your shampoo days.

    Deciding how often you should wash your hair ultimately depends on your individual hair type. But whether you have curls or straight hair, Yates does not recommend shampooing on a daily basis. “The daily use of cleansers can cause dryness and scalp irritation,” she says. Use a dry shampoo when needed, and follow with a clarifying rinse the day after.

    6. Treat yourself to a deep-conditioning treatment.

    Scalp health is important for growth, but so is keeping the rest of your hair nourished, even if it’s made up of dead cells. Cut down on split ends and damage by doing a once-weekly deep-conditioning treatment. These targeted formulas help to keep the hair shaft sealed and smooth. “Have a deep conditioning treatment that’s part of your regular regimen,” says hairstylist and owner of Phenix Salon Suites, Gina Rivera. 

    7. Swap out your bath towel for something snag-free.

    Once you’re out of the shower, your hair is in its most fragile state. Avoid breakage by using towels that won’t snag and pull. “The best towels to use for drying the hair are non-terrycloth towels,” says Yates. “The absence of the tight loops prevent that excess pulling, which is not good for hair health.” She suggests using an old cotton T-shirt instead, which provides a smooth surface for hair to glide over without getting caught.

    8. Minimize heat damage.

    Growing your hair out doesn’t mean swearing off hot tools entirely, but minimizing heat damage significantly cuts down on dryness and split ends. “I recommend Ghd hot tools because of their universal heat setting, which styles your hair without blowing out the cuticle and contributing to heat damage,” says Marjan. Rivera also recommends lines like By Gina with infrared smart technology, which locks moisture into the hair shaft. In general, keep your blow-dryers, flatirons, and curling wands on lower heat settings when possible to prevent scorching the hair. (And always pair them with a heat protectant.)

    9. Brush your hair—carefully.

    Brushing your hair does more than detangle it; it also releases dead cells, improves scalp circulation, and distributes oil throughout your hair shaft. Shamban often recommends that her clients with irritated scalps incorporate this step by using a bristle brush daily. Remember that hair is especially fragile out of the shower, so it’s best to do this step once your hair isn’t sopping wet. “Make sure you brush gently and use a non-damaging brush that won’t pull or snag hair,” says Marjan.

    10. Invest in a silk pillowcase.

    “Silk pillowcases are probably the easiest change you can make that reaps the biggest reward,” says Marjan. When you sleep on cotton pillowcases, the fabric can pull moisture from your hair overnight and cause friction that leads to dryness and pulling. “Sleeping on silk not only extends the life of your hairstyle, but also keeps hair healthier,” says Marjan. These colorful cases from Branché keep their soft but substantial finish no matter how many times you wash them, but you should also take a look at our breakdown of the best silk pillowcases worth your money.

    11. Gua sha your scalp.

    If you’ve tried gua sha on your face, the same technique can be applied to your scalp to stimulate hair follicles. “This is a great pre-shampoo treatment and can be done with an oil on your scalp,” says Marjan, who recommends either castor or tea tree oil. “Castor oil has an essential fatty acid that nourishes your scalp and prevents hair from falling, resulting in thicker, healthier hair,” she says. Tea tree oil is an ideal option if you want a cooling, stimulating effect. touch points.

    12. Use low-pressure hair ties.

    Just like cotton pillowcases, elastics can also pull on your hair if you’re not careful. “Constant pulling will result in permanent follicle damage and prevent the follicles from operating normally,” says Yates. “If you like to wear your hair in tight ponytail, try one a bit lower, towards the nape of your neck to limit strain.” Also consider swapping out your regular elastics for silk scrunchies or hair ties that distribute pressure more evenly, like the Invisibobble.

    13. Take biotin, iodine, and zinc supplements.

    Topicals are effective at maintaining hair health to an extent, but supplements are another smart way to get your nutrients in. There’s no miracle pill that will suddenly speed up hair growth, but certain ingredients can assist in the process. Shamban frequently recommends biotin to her patients, which works as well internally as it does topically. Nutritionist and founder of JSHealth Vitamins, Jessica Sepel, likes kelp-sourced iodine and zinc, which are featured in her Hair + Energy vitamins. “Iodine has promising research to enhance hair health and growth, and zinc can help maintain it,” she says.

    14. Eat foods rich in iron, protein, and healthy fats.

    Sepel also recommends paying attention to your regular diet, where you get the bulk of your growth-boosting ingredients. “Incorporate a variety of nutrients to promote healthier hair,” she says. At the top of her list are iron and protein-rich foods like red meat, spinach, legumes, tempeh, tofu, poultry, fish, and eggs. The healthy fats found in salmon, avocado, and nuts can also help promote shinier, stronger hair.

    15. Reduce stress.

    Shamban says that stress and hormonal shifts are the main factors behind hair loss and thinning in women. “When you are unhealthy, the energy to support scalp and hair health will be diverted to other parts of your body,” says Yates. “Solely relying on topical treatments in these cases will not help with scalp health.”

    This one’s admittedly easier said than done, but whether reducing stress involves plugging in an essential oil diffuser or having a longer conversation with your doctor, it’s an important final step. “A happy scalp grows healthy hair,” says Shamban.

    By Sarah Wu for Glamour©

     

    Your hair may start to grow back while you are still undergoing chemotherapy, or you may not have hair grow back until after the treatment has ended.

     

    While each person has a unique experience with hair loss and regrowth, looking at general timelines may help prepare you for what to expect.

     

    After treatment ends, you may see the following regrowth pattern:3

     
    • Several weeks: Soft fuzz forms.
    • One to two months: Real hair starts to grow.
    • Two to three months: Hair is about 1 inch long.
    • Three to six months: Hair grows about 2–3 inches long.
    • Twelve months: Hair is about 4–6 inches long.
     

    As a reference, healthy hair normally grows about 1 centimeter or half an inch per month.4

     

    When hair does grow back in, it may be a different texture or color than the hair you lost. For example, if you had straight hair, it may be curly when it comes back in.

     

    Some people also find that their hair grows back gray at first, and then a few months later, it returns to its natural color as the pigment-producing melanocyte cells may take longer to repopulate the hair follicle.

    Telltale signs of heat exhaustion

     

    People who are most at risk of heat exhaustion are children under four and people over 65.

    • Heat exhaustion symptoms include rapid pulse, nausea, fatigue, and lightheadedness. 
    • Heat exhaustion usually happens in hot, humid environments when the body is dehydrated and can’t cool itself properly. 
    • To prevent heat exhaustion stay hydrated and try to avoid exercising, or otherwise exerting yourself, during the hottest parts of the day. 
    • This article was medically reviewed by Jason R. McKnight, MD, MS, a family medicine physician and clinical assistant professor at Texas A&M College of Medicine. 
    •  
    • Heat exhaustion is a heat-related illness that happens when the body overheats and cannot cool itself effectively. It’s often caused by exposure to extreme heat and humidity. Common symptoms include heavy sweating and rapid pulse.

     

    Most often, it occurs when people exercise or work outdoors in hot or humid conditions. However, heat exhaustion can also happen indoors, like if you’re in a car with the windows rolled up during the summer.

    Heat exhaustion symptoms 

    Heat exhaustion is not as serious as heatstroke. However, if you’re experiencing the following symptoms, you should seek treatment immediately since heat exhaustion can develop into heatstroke, a more dangerous heat-related illness. 

    The main symptoms of heat exhaustion are:

    • Heavy sweating 
    • Rapid pulse
    • Cool, clammy, or pale skin 
    • Fatigue
    • Nausea
    • Headache
    • Lightheadedness
    • Fainting
    • Dizziness
    • Confusion

    You may also experience heat cramps, another type of heat-related illness that causes muscle spasms and can be a precursor to heat exhaustion. 

    Heat exhaustion causes

    Heat exhaustion occurs when the body overheats. Normal body temperature is usually around 98.6 °F but it can vary between 97 °F and 99 °F. The body can easily overheat when it’s dehydrated and in hot, humid environments. Exerting yourself under these conditions, like exercising, can accelerate the process.

    “Your body temperature can increase about a degree for every five minutes of exercise you’re doing,” says Joshua Scott, MD, primary care sports medicine physician at Cedars-Sinai Kerlin-Jobe Institute.

    Sweat is the main way your body cools itself down. But in humid environments, sweat doesn’t evaporate as quickly, which can cause you to overheat. Add high temperatures and exercise to the mix, and you can easily overheat before you know it.

    Heat exhaustion treatment 

    If you’re experiencing symptoms of heat exhaustion, it’s important to cool yourself down immediately. Try the following treatments:

    • Get out of the heat. Seek shade or get indoors — and preferably in air conditioning — if you can.
    • Hydrate. Sweating cools you down, but it causes you to lose fluids and electrolytes, which are minerals that help keep you hydrated. To treat heat exhaustion, you need to replenish those fluids by drinking water or a sports drink like Gatorade for electrolytes.
    • Use cool water. Help to bring your body temperature down by taking a cool bath or shower, spraying yourself with a garden hose, or by putting wet, cool cloths on your body.
    • Loosen your clothing. Remove any tight or unnecessary clothing if you notice symptoms of heat exhaustion. Multiple layers can trap heat and make it harder for your body to cool itself — light fabrics and loose clothing are always best when it’s hot.  

    Heat exhaustion prevention

    If you’re going to be exercising or working outside in the heat, here are three of the best ways to protect yourself:

    1. Avoid the hottest part of the day

    Some jobs, like working construction, may require you to be outdoors all day, but if you can, try to avoid being outside around 3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m., when temperatures are highest.

    If you’re planning to go for a run, check the weather for the day, and if the high is more than 101 degrees Fahrenheit, choose a cooler time of day to be outside, like the morning or evening. 

    2. Take frequent breaks 

    When you’re in hot and humid conditions, Scott recommends taking a 10-minute break for every 40 minutes of exercise. 

    Exercising quickly raises your body temperature. Giving yourself time to rest can help your body adjust to these changes. 

    3. Stay hydrated 

    When you’re dehydrated, your body can’t produce enough sweat to cool down. Make sure to take a drink about every 15 to 20 minutes while you work out, Scott says. 

    Overall, you should be consuming about 100 fluid ounces of liquid a day, even if you don’t feel thirsty. You usually don’t feel thirsty until you’re already dehydrated, Scott says, so it’s important to drink water throughout the day, and especially when you’re working out.

    “Dehydration can start to reduce muscle strength which can then reduce your body’s ability to thermoregulate itself,” Scott says. “So the problems start long before you get thirsty.”

    When to see a doctor

    If heat exhaustion symptoms don’t improve within an hour of onset or they get worse, you need to seek immediate medical attention. 

    Article by Business insider©

    Photo credit: blackwhitepailyn/Shutterstock  

    Grasses for small gardens

     

    Swathes of tall, wafting grasses look wonderful in large gardens, but they can also be used to great effect in a small space.

    It pays to be bold when using ornamental grasses, which tend to work best dotted throughout border schemes, mingling with other plants. Many will look good until the end of autumn, undergoing subtle color changes as the seasons progress.

    The grass family is one of the largest in the plant kingdom, having evolved to cope with every conceivable soil and site. This means you can choose species that suit your garden conditions, as well as your taste.

    Our pick of grasses for small gardens

    Molinia caerulea

    Our native purple moor grass, Molinia caerulea first flowers in May and adopts subtle shades of green, blue and purple. However, as its flower stems head skyward they change to gold, and when they extend and open, they start to shimmer. The plants that make the greatest impact are bred from the subspecies Molinia caerulea subsp. arundinacea, which is much taller. Molinias are the most versatile of grasses, and the changes in light from dawn to dusk, or from storm to glorious sunshine, give them different guises. Plant them against a dark background to enjoy the full benefit of their sunlit golden stems, but make sure you can see them silhouetted against a brilliant blue autumn sky, too.

    Molinia caerulea ‘Edith Dudszus’ bears vertical, needle-like foliage and refined upright flower stems, this molinia forms a compact clump that’s ideal for a small space. You can also see through it, to other treats growing behind.

    Flowers: July-November
    Height x Spread: 75cm x 50cm

    Molinia caerulea subsp. caerulea ‘Edith Dudszus’

     

    Miscanthus sinensis

    The two best reasons for growing miscanthus are their statuesque presence in the garden and their magnificent flowerheads, or inflorescences. They last for months, making a striking feature from late summer into winter. Some cultivars, such as ‘Flamingo’ have silky pink flowers that cascade softly, while others, such as ‘Nippon’, have more upright spikes in a deep bronze-red. Neither of these is too big for a small garden and there are several other compact varieties. ‘Kleine Fontäne’ and ‘Kleine Silberspinne’ both grow to shoulder height. They bring light, air and movement into even the tiniest garden and since they grow upwards, they take up no more space than a clump of hardy geraniums.

    Flowers: July-November
    H x S: 120cm x 50cm

    Miscanthus sinensis Kleine Silberspinne Little

     

    Imperata cylindrica

    A brilliant addition to any hot-colored planting, Imperata cylindrica spreads by underground rhizomes, but grows so slowly that it will never wander too far in our climate. Give it deep, fertile soil with plenty of humus to keep it happy.

    Flowers: June-August
    H x S: 50cm x 50cm

    Imperata cylindrica ‘Red Baron’

     

    Hakonechloa macra

    With its long-pointed leaves, Hakonechloa macra must be the most elegant of grasses. It’s always impeccably groomed, with never a blade out of place. Brilliant in containers, it’s probably most effective when giving a solo performance. Grow it in sun or part-shade.

    Flowers: July-September
    H x S: 35cm x 40cm

    Hakonechloa macra

     

    Melica uniflora

    One of the prettiest grasses for shade, its dainty owers are widely spaced along its branching stems. It’s a woodlander and if you choose the variegated form, the silvery tones of the foliage and inflorescences will stand out even more in shade.

    Flowers: May-July
    H x S: 40cm x 40cm

    Wood melick (Melica uniflora)

     

    Milium effusum ‘Aureum’

    Milium effusum is ideal for adding zingy color to a shady border. It self-seeds readily and looks especially effective in spring, when the dark ground is sprinkled with bright new seedlings. In summer its dainty owerheads dance on the breeze.

    Flowers: May-July
    H x S: 60cm x 30cm

    Milium effusum ‘Aureum’

    Pennisetum alopecuroides ‘Hameln’

    Pennisetum alopecuroides ‘Hameln’ is covered in fluffy flowerheads from midsummer onwards. Despite its delicate appearance, it’s totally hardy and extremely tolerant, even of heavy, damp soil.

    Flowers: July-September
    H x S: 120cm x 100cm

    Hameln grasses

    Pennisetum alopecuroides ‘Hameln’

    Pennisetum orientale

    If you have dry, hot conditions, you may get away with growing pennisetums. Pennisetum orientale has arching, fluffy heads of pink and crimson, wonderful with a dark sedum. Anpther one to try is Pennisetum alopecuroides ‘Herbstzauber’. Its multiple fluffy flowerheads look like furry caterpillars.

    Pennisetum orientale

    How to grow ornamental grasses

    Raising from seed – scatter seeds over the surface of damp seed compost and cover lightly with grit. Once the seedlings are sturdy enough, prick them out into modular trays and grow them on.

    Dividing plants – many grasses can be increased by division but do this in spring – never in autumn or winter. With some grasses, lift the whole clump, then pull or chop it into pieces. It’s best to pot up the resulting divisions, rather than planting them straight into the ground, as they will have a much higher chance of survival.

    Growing in pots – when planting in containers, use a loam-based compost and make sure there’s good drainage. Generally, grasses don’t need feeding, but in containers an occasional dose of a weak liquid fertilizer will help them thrive.

    Cutting back – never cut back evergreen grasses – simply comb out dead growth with your fingers. Molinias don’t need cutting back, as they simply collapse, however miscanthus, calamagrostis and panicums should be cut down to the base in spring.

    By BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine