Qualifying For Success

Stretch Marks - Cause and Treatment Options © Rob Roy McKenzie 2006 All Rights Reserved

Stretch Marks, known in the medical community as erythrocyanosis are a form of scarring that can occur when a person’s skin is overstretched.

The Two Main Stretch Mark Causes Are:

1) Pregnancy 2) Obesity

Appearance:

Stretch Marks have the initial appearance of purple or red looking lines. In time Stretch Marks can fade to a white or off white color.

Stretch Marks are a VERY common condition. Just think of all the people who are either pregnant or overweight!

Stretch Marks are not just confined to the female population either - few people realize that they are a common complaint of male body builders.

Three Possible Stretch Mark Solutions

Stretch Mark Treatments vary from out-and-out scams to some very smart and scientific remedies.

Three of the most common are:

1. DERMABRASION. This is a serious medical procedure that takes place under a general anesthetic. Dermabrasion is definitely not for the faint of heart.

In Dermabrasion the surface of the skin is literally removed by a process of sanding. The aim of dermabrasion is to remove (or at least lessen) the appearance of scars, damage from the sun or dark spots.

The procedure is obviously very painful (hence the general anesthetic) and the healing process can take several months. However, the results can be quite spectacular.

Dermabrasion works best when the scar or mark being treated is above the surface of the skin and is generally much less effective when used to treat sunken scars.

Be Warned: Having a general anesthetic is NOT something to be taken lightly; it carries inherent risks and can be life-threatening. Always seek a second medical opinion (speak to more than one doctor).

2. MICRODERMABRASION. Often referred to as ‘Microderm’ this is far less invasive procedure that has become very popular throughout the Day Spa and cosmetic industries.

In Microdermabrasion the surface layer of the skin is removed by using a special wand with a roughened surface that lightly sands the skin. The shed skin particles are removed via a suction device attached to the wand.

People like Microdermabrasion because it has a reputation of being a safe, painless procedure that does not require an anesthetic.

3. SKIN TREATMENT CREAMS. This is one of those areas where you are most likely to encounter ‘wild claims’ and the general ‘rule of thumb’ here is that if something sounds too good to be true - it probably is.

That said, there are literally tens of thousands of people who swear by such things as Vitamin A Cream, Cocoa Butter and a whole raft of different specially formulated cosmetic creams.

One thing you can do is ask the people trying to sell you any Stretch Mark Removal treatment to show you before and after photographs of their last 50 clients.

Also, ask for written testimonials.

Skin care experts also say that the correct diet, nutritional supplements, rest and common sense (avoiding excessive sun exposure) can have a big impact on the skin’s ability to heal and its general appearance.

Millions of books and seminar tickets have been sold, promising to teach people to reduce and manage stress. Unfortunately, many people refuse to take the necessary action required to change their habits and reduce or eliminate stress. Most people prefer to “pick and choose” which tips and tricks they will adapt and implement, which creates only limited results. People with a high stress level are often reluctant to find a way to incorporate exercise into their daily routine, but the benefits are overwhelmingly positive.

Although it may be difficult at first to establish a regular exercise routine, consistent follow-through allows most people to create a solid fitness regimen within four to six weeks. Once the foundation for a permanent habit is in place, minimal effort is required to maintain consistency from day to day. Establishing a routine can build confidence and reduce stress by creating predictability and order.

Exercise and periods of stress cause the brain to produce chemicals called endorphins. As these endorphins are released, the body is able to counterbalance the effects of stress. This is what is really taking place when a person says they get a “high” from working out or running. Triggering endorphins allows the body to deal with stress and keep systems running smoothly.

Regular exercise can increase metabolism, which makes the body operate more efficiently. Cardiovascular exercise burns calories and the body’s fat stores, which can result in weight loss if nutritional intake does not increase proportionately. Because lean muscle is more efficient than fat, muscle development can result in a higher metabolic rate. Exercise stimulates blood flow, resulting in improved circulation. The extensive health benefits of regular physical exercise (cardiovascular stimulation combined with strength training) are widely documented.

Of course, the personal benefits of regular exercise simply cannot be disputed. Personal fitness can improve self-image, build confidence and increase stamina. Many people report higher energy levels, better mental clarity/ability to concentrate and an overall better mood as a result of maintaining a regular exercise program. Anyone who is attempting to reduce negative stress patterns and manage stress levels deserves to create and implement a consistent exercise regimen.

Hair replacement is becoming more and more popular in the recent years among people who suffer from hair loss. Due to the advance of medical technology, hair replacement became more common - its prices got more reasonable and its outcome got better.

If you consider having a hair replacement, read the following first:

1. Permanent hair transplant surgery is not new. Actually, the first hair transplant surgery was held over 30 years ago.

2. Hair replacement transplant uses only your existing hair. That’s why in order to get a hair replacement transplant you must have hair in good condition at the sides and at the back of your head (”The donor areas”)

3. If you have almost no hair left over your head, hair replacement could not help you. There are different techniques of hair replacement transplant according to the ratio of hair fullness required.

4. Hair replacement is not only for men - It could be a good solution for female hair loss in some cases.

5. Hair replacement surgery is usually safe and has no side effects. However, in some cases there could be infections like any surgery.

6. Hair replacement surgery is normally performed using a local anesthesia; you should little or no pain at all.

7. Hair replacement process requires several sessions with an interval of a couple of months between them. All the process can take up to two years.

8. You will be asked to refrain of any sport activity after each hair replacement session.

9. Make sure that your physician has performed a lot of hair replacement processes and that he knows and has an experience using all the different techniques.

10. Hair replacement is a completely individual process. You must ask the physician how your hair will look after the process.

Hair replacement is a legitimate hair loss solution. However, it is an extreme one. We strongly advice you try other hair loss solution before trying this one.

1. Your reason for wanting Breast Surgery is the right one. The only person you must be having your Breast Augmentation operation is for YOU, and nobody else. It must not be for your boyfriend, husband or because of peer pressure. It is not anyone else who must live with the end results - it is YOU!

2. You have spent time choosing the Plastic Surgeon that understands YOUR needs. Do not choose the first surgeon you see (unless they have come highly personally recommended and you hit it off straight away). Research and meet more than one, even if there is a small consultation fee involved - better to spend a small amount up front than spend more money resolving any problems!

Make sure they listen to everything you are saying, and are sympathetic to your needs and answer all your questions to your satisfaction. If you feel a good rapport with the surgeon, this is a good indication that they are in touch with you.

Get to know what to look for, what credentials your surgeon has and verify them.

3. Your chosen surgeon has outlined what they will do in the case of problems. Your chosen surgeon may well be able to perform your surgery to your satisfaction, but what will they do if you do encounter unforeseen problems? Problems can happen, although rarely, so know that they are available on constant emergency call-out, and get a feeling for how they care about you post-operatively. The last thing you want is a “here today, gone tomorrow” type of surgeon.

4. You know what size implants are right for you. The general requirement is to “go bigger”, but how big is bigger? There are several ways you can check just what final size will suit you:

a. The rice test Fill plastic bags with dry rice, place the filled bags into the desired bra size, then try on your clothes. Walk around and generally get a feel for how it looks and feels for you. Try adding more or less rice until you are totally happy. You will need to weigh the rice, and convert this into CC or ML to get a direct representation of how it relates to implants.

b. The water test Similar to the rice test, but place (warm!) water into plastic bags and perform the same tests. It is easier than the rice test as once you are happy with the size, the amount of water can be poured into a measuring container, and the CC or ML amount relates directly to the method of measuring implants.

c. Implant sizers Your surgeon will have implant sizers in various sizes for you to try and get a feel for what you will look like. This is not as ideal as the rice or water tests, as unless you can take them home, you cannot try on a different selection of clothing and take your time to get used to the “new you”.

5. You fully understand the type of implants that are right for you.

a. Saline or silicone b. Textured or smooth c. Round or shaped

What you need is to do your homework, talk to your surgeon, and decide on what is right for you to meet your own personal needs.

Understand the implant manufacturers guarantee for their product.

6. You know what type of implant placement you need. There are really 2 type of things to consider here:

a. Under the pectoral muscle or over it. b. High or low profile

Again, do your homework by researching the Internet which is full of this type of information, and discuss with your surgeon, as each person has different needs. Be aware of the advantages and risks involved in your choice.

7. You know what type of incision that will be used. There are 4 main choices:

a. Underneath the breast in the breast crease. b. An incision in the nipple. c. An incision in the armpit. d. An incision in the navel.

Each has its advantages and risks, plus each surgeon has their own experience and choices. Understand what will be best for you, and balance this with the risks and your surgeon’s experience with each type of incision.

8. You understand the risks, and are comfortable with them. All surgery involves risks, which there is no getting away from. These risks are minimal, but still exist. Understand the risks by researching them and talking to your surgeon. Give your surgeon all the information you possibly can about your own medical history, and that of your immediate family.

You must be happy that the risks are so small that you are prepared to accept them, and that if anything does happen, your surgeon is fully equipped to deal with them.

9. Your partner understands what is involved. Although your Breast Augmentation is being done for reasons that satisfy your own personal needs, if you have a partner, then he will be involved in helping you through your recovery. Let him know what is involved, and what he can and cannot do, and the timeframes involved, i.e. resuming sex, how much and how hard any touch you will be able to bear and for how long, the fact that you will need to wear a support bra day and night for 6 weeks, etc.

The last thing you want is a freaked-out partner when you are feeling less than your normal self. Six weeks can be a long wait, which may not be the case for you, but they must understand the full implications.

10. You know what will be required for your recovery post-operatively. If you want to recover from your operation in as relaxed and comfortable way as possible, then BE PREPARED! This means both mentally, and practically.

Ensure you have a good support team around you to help with any children, household chores, transport, work, etc.

Make sure where you will be recovering for the first few days will be equipped with everything you will need, not excluding any pain medication you may need (which should be recommended and/or provided by your surgeon, but check).

Prepare yourself by having at least 2 good support bras in your new size, along with lose fitting clothing, preferably that does up at the front and does not require any arm lifting to put on/take off (any stretching will be out for at least a few days).

By far one of the most important of our beauty assets is our smile. Who can resist an enigmatic sparkling white smile?

You also can’t hide yellow teeth like you can most other physical defects. So you should always be sure your smile is at it’s best.

Perfectly straight teeth aren’t always necessary either, so if you couldn’t afford braces or retainers as a teen don’t worry too much.

Some of the most beautiful women I know (and even myself), have never worn braces in their life. And have small imperfections in the straightness of their teeth.

Even some famous actresses have teeth that have obviously never worn braces (think Amber Tamblyn, Kirsten Dunst, Kristin Kreuk).

And yet they still manage to be amazingly beautiful because their teeth are well cared for, and shine like pearls.

So how can you make your smile enviable without spending a fortune at a dentists or on teeth whitening products?

Beauty Secret 4 Whiten and brighten your smile.

For this little beauty secret you use two household items that are rock bottom cheap to buy; Baking Soda, and Peroxide.

Yep, thats how simple it is.

You take the baking soda and peroxide and you make a thick paste out of them. You shouldn’t need more than a tablespoon of the paste.

Apply the paste to teeth, and leave on for 5 to 10 minutes every morning and night.

The most effective way to do this, and brighten your smile, is by brushing your teeth with the paste. But remember that it will only work if you use it every morning and night, without fail.

Baking soda and peroxide will not only whiten your teeth but clean them too, if you use them in place of toothpaste.

Then just sit back and watch the results!

Your smile will become visibly whiter, and to boot you’ll save a bundle on toothpaste, and teeth whiteners.

Don’t you always hate it when summer rolls around, and your body is hardly swimsuit or shorts ready?

Or even the rest of the year when it seems impossible to disguise those figure flaws!

Beauty Secret 5 Hide figure flaws and defects.

If you are pear shaped:

Wear tighter tops to show off your trim upper body, and skirts that taper towards the hemline to disguise your pear shape.

Buy jeans that are a snug fit and are low rise (the low rise will emphasize your small waist and the tightness has a surprisingly slimming effect on legs and butt).

Dresses that end just a little above the knee work nicely for pear figures as they hide bulky upper legs.

The best swimsuits for pear figures tend to be bikini’s that have low cut bottoms with a flounce skirt. This draws eyes away from the legs, and minimizes them at the same time.

If you are spoon shaped:

Wear shirts that tend to fall straight down and don’t cling, to hide a bulky stomach.

Or wear a snug t-shirt with a button up shirt or sweater over it, leaving the buttons unfastened on the shirt or sweater.

Wear shorts and skirts that are short to emphasize your good feature (your legs).

The best swimsuit for women who are big on top and little on bottom is a full piece that is high cut in the hips.

This hides the stomach, and shows of slender legs and buttocks.

If you are an extremely skinny woman all over:

Wear skirts that flounce out and shirts that ruffle to give you a more rounded appearance.

Wear semi loose dresses that are cinched only in the right spots.

For instance emphasize a small waist with a dress that is cinched in the middle but flounces out from the hips to give a curvy appearance.

Wear snug jeans, or loose slacks with a pull over sweater, these will both work well for your figure type.

The best swimsuits for skinny women are of course bikinis. Full pieces give slender women a “little girl” appearance, and are not very attractive.

The bikini’s are best if they’re high cut in the hips and butt. This flatters a thin woman best by showing off her waist and legs.

Low cut bikini’s will also work well with a skinny woman though, if you want to emphasize slender hips.

If you’re a large woman all over:

You should go for just slightly loose fitting clothes. Too loose and you’ll only make yourself appear bigger.

Wear panty hose to make your legs look slim. Avoid overly tight clothes at all costs, this will make your skin roll, and you’ll look bigger than ever.

Choose mainly capri’s and knee length skirts or dress for summer. Avoid shorts, mini skirts, or short dresses until you slim down.

The best swimsuit for a full figure is (you guessed it) a full piece, cut low in the hips, and with a skirted bottom.

If you’re a curvy woman (also known as an hour glass figure):

You can wear almost anything you choose to and look good; loose slacks, snug jeans, loose shirts, snug shirts, loose skirts, snug skirts, dresses, bikini’s, full pieces, etc…

So be proud of your figure and choose your clothes with some taste to best show off your unique shape.

Now that you’re armed with these beauty secrets, go out and put them to use. You’ll definitely start to turn heads, and command a respect in people wherever you go.

Because, remember it’s not the shape of your body, or face, or the size of your nose or lips or eyes, that denotes beauty.

It’s the proud way you carry yourself, and the neatness, and good taste with which you pick your clothes and accessories.

Be sure to read Part 1 of this informative article.

Oh no! You’re having a jeans crisis and can’t decide on which perfect pair to buy! Don’t despair! Help is on the way.

No matter if you are plus size, petite, tall or average, it’s difficult to find the perfect pair of jeans, so we could also use a few tips.

It’s not always easy finding the right pair of jeans. There are just too many styles to choose from. By keeping some of these tips in mind you can find that perfect pair of jeans.

Some useful hints include:

Before deciding on which pair of jeans to wear, it’s imperative to choose the type of shoes you’ll be sporting. This is because the heel normally will determine how the jean will fall or lay to the ground.

Also remember that most jeans are not pre-shrunk when you purchase them. So make sure you allow for a bit of shrinkage.

Low-rise jeans sit low on the waist and provide the perfect opportunity to show off those abs!

Boot-cut jeans are loose through the leg and wide at the leg opening.

Flare leg jeans are fun and funky which feature a wide, flared opening at the leg.

Stonewashed jeans are light and have a more broken-in appearance.

Distressed jeans have holes, shredding or crinkles to give it that highly worn appearance.

Dark jeans are the ideal jeans for a night out.

Not all jeans fit all body types. So keep in mind your body type and jean style when selecting jeans.

Full-figured body types should choose traditional five-pocket style jeans that aren’t too snug. A bootcut jean will help to balance your figure and make your legs appear longer. And always select jeans in a darker shade.

Slimmer body types look great in jeans with a slight flare at the leg opening. Low-rise and pocket jeans are also good choices.

Athletic types have narrow hips and athletic legs. Bootcut jeans are flattering as well as low-rise jeans.

Some of the newest hottest trends in the stores today are True Religion and 7 for all Mankind.

Today’s jeans are not for just wearing around the house. Designer jeans are versatile and trendy and easily transition from daytime to evening.

In the current day and age of modern cosmetic marvels, it is not too much to ask to get rid of cellulite and treat it effectively on an ongoing basis. There are several products that will help you attain your goals of cellulite-freedom, as well as simple steps in an overall program of cellulite therapy that will make the most of your efforts to blast this spongy looking scurge!

There are a few new innovative products out there that claim to reduce cellulite. Among some of the more unusual products are cellulite shoes, cellulite shorts and underwear, cellulite jeans, and a roller type mechanical handheld machine.

The most effective solution to cellulite so far is a rather costly and inconvenient therapy called endermology. It’s very effective at breaking down the fat deposits that cause the “cottage cheese” effect, but it can be mildy painful and very expensive over the long haul.

Want to get comparable results to endermology cellulite therapy? Here are some suggestions:

1. Get yourself a good cellulite treatment in gel or cream form. It should contain caffeine for the best outcome.

2. Cut out the carbonation and caffeine in your diet. These are thought to contribute to the appearance and severity of cellulite.

3. EXERCISE! Moderate exercise is important, since one of cellulite’s biggest enemies is good circulation, and circulation is always much better in active people. Experiment: Have you noticed you bruise much more easily in the same areas you have cellulite? Try vigorously kneading the effected area - you will probably notice some bruising the next day. It’s a medical fact that people bruise more easily in areas where there is impaired circulation. These are the precise areas where most women get cellulite!

4. Massage your problem areas with your cream or gel - and don’t be too gentle. Make sure the massage is vigorous and fairly high pressure. This will adequately stimulate the circulation in your problem areas, and help break up the fat deposits and collagen bands holding those fat deposits together, effectively minimizing your trouble areas. A good tip I learned from a massotherapist is to take your knuckles and press into your problem areas (thighs) in an upward stroking motion toward your upper body. You may notice a little bruising, but that’s ok, this means you did your job!

The tools to rid your body of cellulite are very accessible and inexpensive. It just takes time, a little money, and some determination.

Flower bouquets the button hole and centre pieces will always be one of the star attractions at weddings. Flower posy/bouquets denote a blossoming maiden which evidently helps reflect her feelings and emotions. The planning of the wedding bouquet takes just as much careful thought behind getting it right for on the day as that of the wedding gown. Whatever race/religion, bouquets will still always be seen as a tradition to be kept. The more of natures natural beauties lining church pews/aisles will send out a lingering aromatic fragrance and a vast amount of colour to brighten up your day.

What to take into consideration when choosing your wedding bouquet:

1. By choosing seasonal flowers you will save time and money, if you insist on blooms out of season then you may find they have to be shipped in from another country. Time is important when you order and receive the flowers, you will want them fresh therefore a stronger sweet smelling scent.

2. If you have silk flowers in mind then better still this way you are guaranteed your particular favourite flower no matter the time of year so no need to put the wedding on hold. 3. Do not make the mistake of letting the bouquet outshine or cover your figure if you are of petite frame the reason being is, your posture maybe affected thus giving off the wrong image of how your wedding gown should look. If the elegant style of the gown is to stay then make sure to choose pastels instead of strong vibrant colours. (Depending on the wedding outfit of course)

4. Make sure that your flowers still hold up for late afternoon photo shoots should your wedding service take place in the morning. A preferred method by brides to keep the flowers fresh while not posing in front of a camera or piling on the pounds at the wedding feast, (who cares now you got your man)only joking is to have a bouquet holder close at hand. Ask the florist for advice on which flowers wilt more quickly than others, by having this information under your garter you will at least know the ones to avoid.

5. On your first visit to the flower shop don’t let the florist conjure up what they think you have in mind, they are not mind readers, It is only you at this point knows what you are looking for. Make it easy on both yourself and the florist by taking a photo of the style and design of the bouquet, another good idea is to bring along a sample piece of gown fabric so that the wedding coordinator/florist can select the correct shade of flower to compliment the wedding dress. Additional touches to Bouquets include ribbons lace beads or pearls.

6. Say it with flowers and mean it, why not choose a flower that has special meaning? Take the Stephanotis which stands for happiness in marriage, then we have the Rose denoting love and being true, another fabulous flower is the Tulip with a meaning declaring perfect love, why not have them all if your betrothed means that much to you.

7. Bouquets are becoming more personalized these days so design yours to suit your personality, everyone else is so why not you. Clusters of flowers more widely known as nose gays can vary in sophistication and will fit any personality. Beauty prevails in the flower cascading bouquet which is seen a lot at traditional weddings.

Flowers where the stems are wrapped in ribbons are called Hand-tied bouquets. It is these bouquets that bring a casual aura more often to garden ceremonies. We also have the Contemporary bouquet where flowers are arranged tastefully in a style with no geometric form but still as gorgeous as any other hand held bridal piece, normally used in sophisticated weddings.

8. If your choice is Roses, Lilies, Orchids, Tulips, Stephanotis or Daisies for your bridal bouquet then you have just picked the top flowers that have dominated many a wedding in the past and in the future to come.

Fashion styles are forever changing. What do this year’s changes bring forth? Fashion is up and down and all around this year. Accessories are going to sizzle this summer, hemlines are going down a bit, pants waistlines are going up, necklaces are going down, scarves are fluid, earrings are dangling, handbags get soft, and belts are back. Feminine, sexy and sultry styles will keep those heads turning. Sheers, crocheted lace, silky satin and flowing gauze will be everywhere. Comfy cool and sexy, sounds like a great year for women!

Accessories are fabulous this year and are leaning in the arts & craft direction. We will start with necklaces. They are beady, long and plentiful. Where a single large beaded strand with artful beads or pair them up with several. Long is where they are at as well as big and with interesting beads. Plastic, glass, wood, handmade, crocheted, and metal beads in all variations have invaded the necklace world. Find them beaded alone or with lace, sheer or ribbon. Artisans beware; fabulous finds are in high demand! While you are at it, dangling earrings to match will complete the ensemble. Hoops and beads are dangling in the earring category. Out with the chandeliers and in come the dangling beads.

Belts are back big-time accentuating the waistlines. In the gym lately? You’ll need it this year! Belts run the gamut this year in all styles. Wide big belts are back as well as plenty of other styles. Crocheted lace belts, pom pom end belts, leather, and fabric belts are all a hot ticket. Sheer or lace belts are big that can be used two fold. You can where them as a belt or as a scarf. Get creative and find those great finds at art fairs in fabric belts or crocheted belts.

Gold is big this season. Find it in handbags, jewelry, clothing and shoes. Don’t go overboard with gold; remember a little goes a long way. Don’t cover yourself in gold from head to toe; you’ll look like a left over Christmas ornament! Gold shoes and a great gold handbag will look great with any outfit and you will not be overdoing it.

Handbags are always a favorite; you can never have enough of them. Soft leathers, straw and fabrics are very in. Larger size handbags are big. Look for lots of gathered ends on the top and visible pockets on the outside. Straw is hot in all colors and new styles, crochet and appliques are abundant. You will see simple designs to more artistic designs. Stick with simple if your outfit is strikingly fabulous. When going for a more conservative or simple style, then go with a more artistic handbag to set it off.

The ups and downs have it this year. Necklaces are going down as well as hemlines. Not too much though, just mini’s are out. Look for knee length and long flowing skirts and dresses. Lacey, satin, sheers and gauze is it for skirts and dresses. Yes, I did say dresses; they are making a comeback big-time. Comfy and sexy at the same time! Skirts styles are very full along with A-lines are very in. Pants waistlines are starting to go up which is what is bringing belts back in. It may take a while but at least they are not going down any farther. Was there any room left to go?

Let your accessories sizzle and your femininity and sex-appeal reign in this year’s styles.

Being without a girl in the universe where you notice relationships in each and every pub and disco can be a lonely feeling. I personally know of 2 not married friends who go on dates every month and each week they are depressed because they are still without a partner. In the wonderful city of London there are a large assortment of tremendous call girls, these excellent escorts are the perfect present to give yourself if you are without a partner.

Working girls in the capital city of the UK are awesome and graceful and have a high education making them fine companions as well as spectacular lovers. The escorts in London are regularly more pricey than anywhere else like Glasgow, the reason for this is the escorts tend to be of a higher class.

Working girls have been made fashionable with the television show Secret Diary with the pretty Billie Piper. In the television series the escort call girl is made out to be glamorous and rich and always looking graceful. Secret Diary is a top rated tv show in the UK and many guys have seen it and have now booked an escort. This has helped to fuel the increase in single males feeling much happier and better about the choice a single male has in London. View Escorts from Lucy Bond and have the best night in ever.