Fuller eyebrows and thick eyelashes are very fashionable these days. Although you can find many products on the market that promise you dreamy results, you can try natural homemade remedies first before browsing the drugstore aisles.

A hot beauty trend seen on magazines, beauty blogs and Instagram is sporting fuller brows paired with feathery eyelashes. To achieve naturally full results, you can try these three well-known homemde remedies.

How To Grow Your Eyebrows With Olive Oil

Olive oil is a God-sent ingredient for your beauty because it contains vitamins A and E, which will increase the growth of your hair. Vitamin E nourishes each hair strand, while vitamin A promotes the production of natural body oil, which helps hair development.

How to: apply a drop of olive oil on the tip of the finger and then gently massage the eyebrows, leaving it for a couple of hours and then rinsing with a face cleanser. This step can be part of your beauty routine at least once a day to see its effects in a matter of a few weeks. Need more intensity for your eyebrows? You can always opt for a brow tint for more colour and drama at the end of your treatment.

Egg Yolks For Healthy Eyebrows And Eyelashes

Ph. Klaus Nielsen, Pexels

Hair is made of a protein known as keratin, and eggs are an excellent source of proteins. Moreover, egg yolks are also a good source of biotin, which stimulate the growth of your eyebrows and eyelashes. As you can spot in many haircare products for hair loss and hair growth, keratin and biotin are two natural allies.

Ph. Cottonbro, Pexels

How to: separate the egg yolk from its white, the beat the yolk until the consistency is uniform. Next, apply the mixture to your eyebrows with a brush and, for the eyelashes, a clean lash wand. Leave it for 20 minutes, and then wash it off with warm water. This homemade recipe can give you a faster growth rate if you use it twice a week. Be careful: use it in moderation because egg yolks can clog your pores and cause acne.

How To Grow Your Eyebrows and Eyelashes With Milk

Ph. Charlotte May, Pexels

Milk has well-known benefits for your skin and hair. Milk is used in many dermatological products because it contains casein and serum, two vital proteins that stimulate the development of healthy hair.

How to: moisten a cotton ball in milk and gently apply it to your eyebrows and eyelashes. When applying it to your eyes, remember to remove excess milk by gently squeezing the cotton. Keep it for 15 minutes and wash it off with water. Doing this every day will give you the desired results.

Day after day, you can admire longer and healthier eyelashes and brows because the simplest beauty solutions are a step away from you... in your kitchen.

The desire to travel was going to peek out sooner or later. Now that you can travel with more freedom, how to pack your luggage with confidence? We have searched and put in practice smart tips that will change once and for all the way you prepare your suitcase.

Photo by Daria Shevtsova, Pexels

Travelling is an enjoyable experience but getting ready to reach your destination can be rather stressful. Packing your luggage is not always as straightforward but with these 15 tips, you are going to pack like a pro traveller.

Maybe you are not used anymore to pack for long distances, maybe you wish to bring all your wardrobe with you or you want to fly with peace of mind. Between strict regulations and security checks, without mentioning airlines' endless policies, packing your suitcases is never that easy. The tip list unrolled in this blog will show you how to pack your luggage as a game. 'Playing Tetris' turns your luggage into an easy-to-solve puzzle and also allows you to save some space for extra souvenirs. Shall we play Tetris?

1) Find The Right Luggage

Photo by Max Vakhtbovych, Pexels

If you plan to travel by plane, your suitcase may need to have specific dimensions to fit properly and safely inside a cabin. In any case, hard-shell luggage is the most reliable and lasting choice. It is an investment over time that will protect your belongings and also suggests you when much is too much. 4-wheel models are the easiest suitcases to carry around. A little push goes a long way!

2) Make A List And Check It
This game needs some logic. Exactly like you do your usual grocery list, write down a list of essentials and clothing you will need. As the packing day approaches, do a final check to make sure you do not forget important items on your way.

3) Lay Everything On Your Bed
This elementary tip will prevent you to throw everything instinctively in your bag. Place your essentials, toiletries bag and especially your clothing selection flat on your bed. Now you have a clearer view of what you want to bring and what you need. From here you can start your final selection.

Photo by Monstera, Pexels

4) Build Your Outfit Ahead
Much depends on your travel destination but always try to pack as light as possible. Wear your bulkiest clothes on the plane and pack garments that you can layer up for the breeziest nights. Plan your underwear based on the days of vacation and include a 'fancier' outfit. Remember: never bring too much with you. Most of the time, those 'just in case' outfits will sit undisturbed at the bottom of your luggage.

5) 'Shoe Tetris'
Let's the game begin! You will soon realise that packing your suitcase is like Tetris: once you know your pieces, you can turn them to stuck them neatly. You can save extra space if you put your shoes heel to toe and stuff them with your socks. Make sure to wrap them in a plastic bag and place them at the bottom of your suitcase to keep dirt away from your nice clothes.

6) The Heaviest First
It may sound obvious but the heaviest belongings should be placed at the bottom of your suitcase or backpack. The gravity will push them down naturally anyway. With this tip, you will not squish or break anything else.

7) Rolls And Cubes

Photo by Vlada Karpovich, Pexels

Roll your clothes to gain more space and use packing cubes or cheaper Ziplock bags to keep everything well organised and protected.

8) Dirty Business
The joy of packing is dealing with clean and nicely folded clothes but you will need to pack your dirty outfits at some point. Bring with you some spare plastic bags to store used clothes away.

9) Extra Bag: Allowed

Photo by Bagpad

You may want to bring with you a nice pochette to match that fancy outfit mentioned earlier. Stuff your handbag with soft clothes or use special paddings that will prevent your leather and vegan handbag to crease or lose its original shape. You can try a bag padding like Bagpad that matches your signature handbag dimensions. 

10) Makeup Made Easy
'Less is more' applies to makeup when travelling. Minimise your makeup allowance by selecting multipurpose cosmetics and crayons that can work on eyes, lips and cheeks. Slim down your list and forget the most valuable palette in your stash and big liquid products. Opt for a compact face & eyes palette with versatile and neutral shades you can use day to night. 

11) Protect Your Beauty
Invest in a padded makeup pouch as makeup artists will do or recycle bubble wraps from other packagings. This cheap quick fix will protect your compacts from impacts and damages whether you are travelling by plane, train, coach or car.

12) The Toiletries Dilemma
It is crucial to know in which bag you are going to store your toiletries: is it your hold luggage or your carry-on?
Hold luggage offers more freedom for what concerns the size of your liquids, excluding nail polishes which are forbidden. Although this should be the rule, always check your airline company policies and list of prohibited items on board. Your carry-on or hand luggage toiletries need to comply with air travel safety regulations: each liquid item must be no more than 10 0ml and must fit in a clear and resealable plastic bag with a max volume of 1 litre, measuring around 20x20cm.

13) Smart Travel Sizes

Photo by Sarah Chai, Pexels

Of course, none of your regular liquid treatments or personal care products will fit the above requirements. The bad news is that you cannot take with you your half-used bottles as they will be rejected at the checking area. Travel sizes are the solution but we guess you want to travel both light and smart. Cosmetic travel-size products are easy to find in any drugstore but they are expensive compared to the full-size version. Creating your own travel sizes is cheap and very easy, you can turn any treatment, liquid makeup or personal care product into a travel size with mini containers or sustainable travel sets like this we have tested for you.

14) Toliteries Come First
Now that you have cut down the size of your essential toiletries and prepared your pouch ready for inspection, keep it at the very top of your hand luggage, so that it is easy to reach before entering the safety check area.

15) Tandem Travel, Safe X2

Photo by Mikhail Nilov, Pexels

A fight being cancelled is a nightmare but losing a big suitcase is equally frightening. Here, travelling as a couple is safer for both. Have a spare outfit of your travel companion in your hand luggage and so your friend or partner. In the worst scenario ever, both will have something for a quick change while waiting to retrieve the missing bag.

Photo by Shopify Partners, Burst

Solo traveller? If you are travelling alone with two pieces of luggage, save your trip by having always at least one complete spare outfit in your hand luggage in case your hold suitcase gets lost. Also keep your medications, documents and power charger in your hand suitcase to protect the most valuable items closer to you and keep your mobile always charged.

These tested 15 smart packing tips will drastically cut the time you need to pack your bags so that you can enjoy your journey, seat back and relax.

Where did we get all our information from before TikTok existed?

The ever-growing social media platform has offered us some of the greatest tips and tricks. Be it bargain DIY or trying to become the next Gordon Ramsey, we’ve learnt we can take on any challenge.  Perhaps TikTok’s most influential topic is beauty, as focused on by BBC’s Glow Up this year. Below are some trends that are sure to improve our skills, and maybe even prepare us to apply for the next series. 

1. Robe Curls

With Covid causing a national shut down of hairdressers, our locks have been longing for some TLC. It’s fair to say the past year has seen a fair few bad hair days, but we’ve persevered, finding solace in online platforms such as TikTok for the latest tips. We’ve even found a new way to achieve that salon bouncy blow dry in the comfort of our own homes – using a dressing gown tie. Funnily enough, this unconventional hair tool provides voluminous curls that require no heat. Less damage to hair and doesn’t cost a penny – we’re sold.

2.Eye Bags

After spending the last however many decades discovering new ways to conceal our eye bags, this beauty trend aims to do the complete opposite. 2021 is all about embracing natural beauty and uniting in the fact that most of us have eye bags – and that’s okay! In fact, now it’s even trendy. TikTokers have been using lipsticks to create an exaggerated eye bag effect. After all, it’s been a long year so it’s no surprise everyone’s feeling tired and not afraid to show it.

@sarathefreeelf

♬ Greek Tragedy (Oliver Nelson TikTok Remix) - The Wombats

3.Facelift Concealer

As mentioned above, latest beauty trends consist of more natural ways to glow up. For this tip, we’re swapping out needles and saving our pennies for a change in concealer placement. Kim K started the overly bright under eye a few years ago. Now beauty gurus are telling us to switch up this application. Using a concealer one to two shades lighter than our skin tone, place the product in an isosceles triangle shape under the inner section of your eyes. Then add a stroke on the outer corner of your eyes above your cheek bones. This ultimately gives the appearance of a more snatched face.

@meghaess

Facelift anyone? #facelift #concealerhack #makeuphack #makeuptricks #makeuproutine #itsaremix #gotthisforyou #makeuptutorial #skincareroutine #foryou

♬ BDASH Breathe - BDash

4. Q-Tip Lipstick Trick

Perfecting the outer corner edges of our mouth are always the most stubborn when it comes to lipstick application. It’s not easy to see where the liner should finish and we can sometimes end up with the dreaded clown lip. TikTok beauty queen Huda Kattan has solved all our lipstick problems offering a q-tip as the solution. By holding the cotton bud in your mouth while applying, the results are smudge free. There’s no need for guessing work with this precise and easy hack.

@tesslamariee

Sandstone lip & cheek, linked in bio ✨ #qtiplipstick #makeuphack #howto #easymakeup #mamamakeup #lipcolor #ROMWEGetGraphic #PonderWithZion

♬ original sound - theanoughceke

 

5. Colour Theory Foundation

Perhaps one of the most shocking transitions, who knew painting your face multi-coloured could result in a flawless personal skin match? This is a beauty trick even a 2-year-old could help you with – it’s that easy. When applying white, red, blue, and yellow dots on the face and then buffing them into the skin, the colours will melt together and disappear. The concept behind this at-first magical trick is that primary colours neutralise your skin tone. All foundations are actually made from the same pigments, so by custom creating your own, you’re finding the perfect match at a fraction of the cost.

Main photo Photo by Content Pixie on Unsplash

With all those YouTube tutorials and tips on the internet, it is now much easier to master applying makeup. However, it is not enough to just invest in expensive products.

Hair appointment cancelled. Facial and back massage rescheduled and as far as manicure and pedicure bookings… Yikes!

Photo Source: Adobe freestock

Still having flashbacks for not attending that last appointment!! It is a constant recurring nightmare!! For those mere mortals shuddering at the prospect of overgrown nails and faded out highlights, I feel your pain. We are in this together!

Being on ‘Lockdown’ does not mean grooming standards should slip, we just need to improvise a little. There is no need to feel down hearted, help is at hand by the means of a do-it-yourself facial treatment in the comfort of your own home.  So, here are some quick tricks and tips for concocting a variety of fun face masks, readily available in your cupboard or fridge to brighten your day! As for those with sensitive skin, recent cuts or bruises, fear not!  You can still join in the fun by creating your own unique ‘Spicy Fruit Salad’.

The humble tomato is an antioxidant with a great source of vitamin C, potassium and vitamin K. It has also been known to be used as an astringent and brightener for oily skin. This amazing fruit sometimes referred to as a vegetable can also be used to sooth and hydrate sensitive or dehydrated skin.  

You can be as adventurous as you wish, by using freshly sliced tomatoes, chopped tinned tomatoes or my favourite tomato puree paste.  Apply all over the face or T-zone area, then leave for 5-10 minutes before removing and rinsing your entire face with lukewarm water.  Finally, moisturise using your regular product.  Repeat once or twice a week.

Photo Source: Adobe freestock

Cheers to the tropical pineapple!  Have you ever wondered what to do with those pineapple slices from your Pina Colada? Ponder no further.  Making your very own face mask is the answer! Pineapples are packed full of nutrients such as proteins, vitamin C, A, B6, B5, calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium and zinc to name a few. With all of this in mind, creating pineapple face masks does not seem like such a farfetched idea. Due to the high acidic and antioxidants content, this tropical fruit is the perfect exfoliant for dry, flaky, blemished or sallow skin. A word of warning, please avoid using on sensitive or broken skin as it will sting.

Blend a few pineapple chunks or slices into a blender, then apply to the face. Leave on for 5-10 minutes as before rinsing off with lukewarm water. For individuals with heal scars, slight pigmentations or blemishes, apply a small amount of pineapple juice using a cotton pad or bud to the areas of concern only. Leave for 3-5 minutes then rinse off thoroughly. Remember to moisturise your face afterwards. Repeat once or twice a week.

Photo Source: Adobe freestock

Yogurt is great for the immune system because it is crammed with minerals and probiotics as well as vitamin D, B1, proteins, magnesium, calcium and many more.

Mixing spices such as turmeric into the yogurt mixture may help to alleviate certain skin conditions such as very dry skin, acne and psoriasis. An alternative blend worth trying is a combination of honey and plain yogurt. This fusion is ideal for mature, dry or sensitive skin.

Use a generous amount of your chosen yogurt mix. Leave on the skin for at least 10-15 minutes then rinse off properly.  Do not forget to apply moisturiser afterwards. Repeat two to three times a week.
 Photo Source: Adobe freestock

Alternately try avocado instead of yogurt. This fruit contains over 20 vitamins and minerals giving the perfect nourishment for the skin.

Using olive oil mixed with turmeric makes an ideal combination for dry or mature skin. Olive oil contains antioxidants and vitamin E and K. The perfect blend to kick start and heal the skin.

Photo Source: Adobe freestock

Photo Source: Adobe freestock
 
Please Note: These are just guidelines for creating fun facial masks.  If you do feel any sensitivity or tingling at any point. Take off the mask immediately, rinse your face with cool water. Consult your GP if necessary.

Rubis-beauty precision, the name associated with make-up artists such as Bobbi Brown, has been making precision tweezers for over 60 years.

Image source: Unsplash

Looking forward to a trip doesn't necessarily mean we look forward to packing as well. In fact, in most cases, that is the part we dread the most. Not knowing what to bring, how much to pack, and of course when to stop when it comes to makeup and skincare products. Since we often bring everything that we own but end up using just a few products here are some tips on how to pack skincare for traveling.

Pack Only Travel-size Bottles

Image source: Unsplash

Packing for a trip is a great time to use all those small, empty bottles you have laying around the bathroom. Everything you need you can put in those since it is easier to pack and you won’t bring more liquid than allowed. If you don’t have it at home, every store offers travel sizes of your favorite products you use every day. Another good tip is to save all the skincare samples you have for when you travel. If your trip lasts two weeks, for example, you’ll have more than enough. However, if you plan on staying longer, a good idea is to research the prices and get some things you need once you get there.

Take Extra Care Of Your Skin When Traveling

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Our skin has to deal with a lot on an everyday basis, and we should provide it with adequate skin care. When traveling, we subject our skin to a different climate, water, humidity, and much more. That is why it needs lots of hydration and care. It is best to stick to the products you use every day because that way you will avoid any irritation, redness, or breakouts if the new product doesn't suit your skin. However, what you should consider is picking products from the line and brand you are using, that provide extra hydration. This will make your skin look fresh throughout your trip. Many brands today offer sheet masks as a part of the anti-jet-lag routine so you can try out those too.

Don’t forget your under-eye cream because that will lessen the dark circles and puffiness you can get from flying. If you are going to a place with a lot of sun exposure, don’t forget to pack a face cream with SPF. Another mandatory part of your skin care routine when traveling should be to drink a lot of water and bring your minerals and vitamins, which will make you glow from the inside.

The Importance Of Taking Care Of Your Body As Well

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When traveling, our body feels sudden changes too. We are often tired, sleepy and don’t feel really fresh. Contrary to popular belief, working out, for example, is not going to make you feel more tired. It will increase the blood flow and improve your circulation making you feel more awake.

Another good way to help your body while traveling is to have a relaxing professional massage which can help relieve soreness, and relax you from the journey which can be uncomfortable. This way you will be able to fully enjoy your stay and endure all the daily activities and sightseeing you have planned. A relaxing massage can add to the experience of the trip, and through it, you get to learn about oils and products they use. Why shouldn't you enjoy to the max when traveling somewhere? 

Advice From Beauty Bloggers You Should Follow

Image source: Unsplash

If you are not sure what are the best products and how you should use them, you can always follow advice from famous beauty bloggers or YouTubers. One of them is Chloe Morello, who has offered some tips and tricks on how to take care of your skin, especially when traveling. Much of the products she uses are natural ones that make your face glow and hydrate your skin, reducing signs of tiredness and lack of sleep. She also emphasizes the importance of masks when traveling even gel under eye patches that you can keep in the fridge to get the effect of cooling. Additional advice she gives is how to do your make-up to hide signs of travel from your face. 

Every trip is a beautiful experience, but it can sometimes be stressful if our body and face don’t cooperate. That is why it is important to pack all the right skin care to avoid any possible problems. Just keep in mind that hydration is the most important part, and for the rest, listen to your skin and body and choose the products accordingly.