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Thursday, February 28, 2008

Forex Broker: Choosing the right Forex Broker

Sometimes it's hard to make a decision on which Forex broker to open our trading account, there are just too many of them. Most of them have different features, capabilities, weaknesses and advantages, for this reason I have created a checklist that can help you decide the broker to use in your Forex adventure.

1. Is it regulated?

The first question you have to ask yourself is: is the broker I want to use Regulated ? There must be no doubt about this first point. All regulated brokers must submit financial reports to regulatory authorities, and when they fail to do it, authorities have the right to fine them or terminate their membership. This enforces Forex brokers to keep transparent financial reports.

The brokers must be regulated by their local regulatory authorities, for instance, for brokers based in the US , they must be regulated by the NFA (National Futures Association) and CFTC (Commodity Futures Trading Commission), Swiss based brokers must be regulated by the FDF (Swiss Federal Department of Finance) and so on.

Also when a Forex broker is regulated allows investors to dispute any resolution, increasing the investor protection.

2. Trading Conditions

This point refers to the features of the trading platform and the trading conditions with the chosen broker. Amongst the most important factors are:

Spread - Obviously the smaller the spread on currency pairs the better the conditions are for investors and traders.

Platform execution - Trading execution refers to how fast and consistent are the execution of trades. Some brokers guarantee fast and transparent executions during normal market conditions.

Fractional trading Some brokers allow investors and traders to trade on a fractional basis, instead of trading full lots “100,000 units” or “300,000 units”, they allow you to trade “163,345 units” or “325,911 units”. This is very helpful for trades risking certain percentage of their balance on each trade.

Safety of funds We need to make sure our trading funds are kept in a segregated account or at least insured.

Trading platform Easy to use and understand platform, is it reliable during fast moving markets? And what extra features it offers such as: one click buying/selling, trading directly from a chart, supports mobile devices, trailing stops, etc.)

Minimum investment What is the minimum amount of money required to open a trading account? This aspect is very useful because before trading your full account, you need to test the waters and see how well you perform with an account with limited funds (after trading a demo account).

Margin (leverage) What kind of leverage can be used with the chosen broker? Just to make sure our leverage requirements by our Forex strategy and methodology (leverage above 100:1 is not advisable).

Commissions Some brokers charge commission, it is ok if they do if the spread is smaller than other brokers.

3. Diligence

Hopefully you have eliminated most brokers at this point. You should have 3 or 4 finalists. In this step do your diligences on forums, ask other traders about their experiences using their brokers, and so forth.

Some forums where you can ask for broker information are: ForexFactory, MoneyTec, ForexNews.

If brokers are registered by their local regulatory authorities, you can visit the regulator website and you will find plenty of information about Forex brokers. Some of them publish resolutions regarding Forex brokers.

Amongst the aspects you should ask and get informed are:

Customer service This aspect is the most important of them all, are they rude to customers? Are they willingly to help customers? These are the questions you should ask in forums and fellow traders.

Slippage Slippage is the difference between the price where the trade was executed and actual value of it. Do they honor stop loss and take profit levels? Do they guarantee it? If any one had any discrepancies, did their broker revert the result?

Manual execution Some brokers don't like scalpers, if they catch someone doing it, they will put this trader into manual execution, so a dealer (human) must accept all transactions made by this trader. Do they do this?

Re-quotes a re-quote happens when you click the buy/sell button and the platform doesn't accept our price, so it will give us another quote for that particular trade.

4. Testing

In this phase we should test our Forex broker, first on a demo account to see how it works, also test your system to see how it performs. If you are satisfied with the results, then try the same platform with limited funds to see how it performs on real trades. If you are satisfied again then open your full trading account with the chosen broker.

Wednesday, February 27, 2008

Forex Strategy: Trading with Stochastics

Forex Strategy: Trading with Stochastics

Stochastics are amongst the most popular technical indicators when it comes to Forex Trading. Unfortunately most traders use them incorrectly. In this article we will review the correct way to use this popular technical indicator.

George Lane developed this indicator in the late 1950s. Stochastics measure the current close relative to the range (high/low) over a set of periods.

Stochastics consist of two lines:

%K – Is the main line and is usually displayed as a solid line

%D – Is simply a moving average of the %K and is usually displayed as a dotted line

There are three types of Stochastics: Full, fast and slow stochastics. Slow stochastics are simply a smother version of the fast stochastics, and full stochastics are even a smother version of the slow stochastics.

Interpretation:

Buy when %K falls below the oversold level (below 20) and rises back above the same level.

Sell when %K rises above de overbought level (above 80) and falls back below the same level.

The interpretation above is how most traders and investors use them; however, it only works when the market is trendless or ranging. When the market is trending, a reading above the overbought territory isn't necessary a bearish signal, while a reading below de oversold territory isn't necessary bullish signal.

Trending market

When the market is trending is necessary to adapt the oscillator to the same conditions: When the market is trending up, then the signals with the higher probability of success are those in direction of the trend “Buy signals”, on the other hand when the market is trending down, selling signals offer the lowest risk opportunities.

Thus when the market is trending up, we will only look for oversold conditions (when the stochastics fall below the oversold level [below 20] and rises back above the same level) to get ready to trade, and in the same way, when the market is trending down we will only look for overbought conditions (when the stochastics rise above de overbought level [above 80] and falls back below the same level.

Taking all overbought/oversold signals during a trending market will lead us to many whipsaws. If you are not comfortable with the number of signals given, try expanding your trading to other currency pairs.

Trend-less market

During a ranging market we could use the interpretation explained above to trade off stochastics.

Divergence

Divergence trades are amongst the most reliable trading signals in the Forex market. A divergence occurs either when the indicator reaches new highs/lows and the market fails to do it or the market reaches new highs/lows and the indicator fails to do it. Both conditions mean that the market isn't as strong as it used to be giving us opportunities to profit from the market.

Stochastics can also be used to trade off divergences.

Price behavior

A price behavior can be incorporated into any kind of system or Forex strategy. When using divergences or overbought/oversold condition with a price behavior approach, the probability of success of our signals increases enormously. Why? Because price dictates at the end, how all indicators will behave, it also gives us a lot of information about the probable direction it will take in the future.


Source: http://www.straightforex.com/forexstrategy.html

Common Sense Guidelines for the Average Trader

Common Sense Guidelines for the Average Trader

Look for a reputable broker

  • Ability to trade effectively depends on consistent spreads and ample liquidity
  • Anyone can establish a position
  • Ability to close out a position at a fair market price is more important

Live to trade another day

  • Apply prudent money management skills
  • Avoid using excessive leverage that puts your investment capital at risk
  • Always trade with a stop!

Don’t trade emotionally, stick to your plan and maintain discipline

  • Establish a trading plan before initiating a trade
  • Set reasonable risk/reward parameters
  • Don’t override your stops for emotional reasons
  • Don’t react to price action – means don’t buy just because it looks cheap or sell because it looks too high, Have supporting evidence to back up your trade

Don’t punt

  • Don't punt( Punting is trading for trading sake without a view)

Don’t leave stops at obvious levels such as “big figures” (e.g. eur/usd 1.20, usd/jpy 110)

  • i.e. JUBBS stops = stops at obvious levels and thus are more likely triggered

Don’t add to a losing position in unless it is part of a strategy to scale into a position

  • In other words, don’t double up in the hope of recouping losses unless it is part of a broader trading strategy

Trading with and against the trend

  • When trading with a trend, consider the use of trailing stops.
  • When trading against the trend, be disciplined taking profits and don’t hold out for the last pip

Treat trading as a continuum

  • Don’t base success on one trade
  • Avoid emotional highs or lows on individual trades
  • Consistency should be an objective

Forex trading is multi-currency

  • Watch crosses as they are key influences on spot trading
  • Crosses are one currency vs. another, such as eur/jpy (euro vs. jpy) or eur/gbp (eur vs. gbp)
  • Crosses can be used as clues for direction for spot currencies even if you are not trading them

Be cognizant of what news is coming out each day so you don’t get blindsided

  • Be cognizant of what news is coming out each day so you don’t get blindsided
  • Beware of trading just ahead of an economic number and be wary of volatility following key releases

Beware of illiquid markets

  • Beware of illiquid markets
  • Adjust strategies during holiday or pre-holiday periods to take into account thin liquidity
  • Beware of central bank intervention in illiquid markets

By: Provided by GVI

Essential Elements of a Successful Trader

Courage Under Stressful Conditions When the Outcome is Uncertain

All the foreign exchange trading knowledge in the world is not going to help, unless you have the nerve to buy and sell currencies and put your money at risk. As with the lottery “You gotta be in it to win it”. Trust me when I say that the simple task of hitting the buy or sell key is extremely difficult to do when your own real money is put at risk.

You will feel anxiety, even fear. Here lies the moment of truth. Do you have the courage to be afraid and act anyway? When a fireman runs into a burning building I assume he is afraid but he does it anyway and achieves the desired result. Unless you can overcome or accept your fear and do it anyway, you will not be a successful trader.

However, once you learn to control your fear, it gets easier and easier and in time there is no fear. The opposite reaction can become an issue – you’re overconfident and not focused enough on the risk you're taking.

Both the inability to initiate a trade, or close a losing trade can create serious psychological issues for a trader going forward. By calling attention to these potential stumbling blocks beforehand, you can properly prepare prior to your first real trade and develop good trading habits from day one.

Start by analyzing yourself. Are you the type of person that can control their emotions and flawlessly execute trades, oftentimes under extremely stressful conditions? Are you the type of person who’s overconfident and prone to take more risk than they should? Before your first real trade you need to look inside yourself and get the answers. We can correct any deficiencies before they result in paralysis (not pulling the trigger) or a huge loss (overconfidence). A huge loss can prematurely end your trading career, or prolong your success until you can raise additional capital.

The difficulty doesn’t end with “pulling the trigger”. In fact what comes next is equally or perhaps more difficult. Once you are in the trade the next hurdle is staying in the trade. When trading foreign exchange you exit the trade as soon as possible after entry when it is not working. Most people who have been successful in non-trading ventures find this concept difficult to implement.

For example, real estate tycoons make their fortune riding out the bad times and selling during the boom periods. The problem with trying to adapt a 'hold on until it comes back' strategy in foreign exchange is that most of the time the currencies are in long-term persistent, directional trends and your equity will be wiped out before the currency comes back.

The other side of the coin is staying in a trade that is working. The most common pitfall is closing out a winning position without a valid reason. Once again, fear is the culprit. Your subconscious demons will be scaring you non-stop with questions like “what if news comes out and you wind up with a loss”. The reality is if news comes out in a currency that is going up, the news has a higher probability of being positive than negative (more on why that is so in a later article).

So your fear is just a baseless annoyance. Don’t try and fight the fear. Accept it. Have a laugh about it and then move on to the task at hand, which is determining an exit strategy based on actual price movement. As Garth says in Waynesworld “Live in the now man”. Worrying about what could be is irrational. Studying your chart and determining an objective exit point is reality based and rational.

Another common pitfall is closing a winning position because you are bored with it; its not moving. In Football, after a star running back breaks free for a 50-yard gain, he comes out of the game temporarily for a breather. When he reenters the game he is a serious threat to gain more yards – this is indisputable. So when your position takes a breather after a winning move, the next likely event is further gains – so why close it?

If you can be courageous under fire and strategically patient, foreign exchange trading may be for you. If you’re a natural gunslinger and reckless you will need to tone your act down a notch or two and we can help you make the necessary adjustments. If putting your money at risk makes you a nervous wreck its because you lack the knowledge base to be confident in your decision making.

Patience to Gain Knowledge through Study and Focus

Many new traders believe all you need to profitably trade foreign currencies are charts, technical indicators and a small bankroll. Most of them blow up (lose all their money) within a few weeks or months; some are initially successful and it takes as long as a year before they blow up. A tiny minority with good money management skills, patience, and a market niche go on to be successful traders. Armed with charts, technical indicators, and a small bankroll, the chance of succeeding is probably 500 to 1.

To increase your chances of success to near certainty requires knowledge; acquiring knowledge takes hard work, study, dedication and focus. Compile your knowledge base without taking any shortcuts, thereby assuring a solid foundation to build upon.

By Jimmy Young

Forex Broker Guide

Forex Broker Guide

Introduction

The following is a list of questions you may like to ask yourself, your broker and other traders about a particular firm you have in mind. You can use this checklist to narrow down your selection of forex companies to fit your requirements. You might also like to read the forex broker ratings page on this site to see how other traders are rating and reviewing other brokers.


1. Word of Mouth

  • What do other traders say about the broker?
  • What is their customer service/dealing desk like?

2. Safety of Funds

  • Is the broker regulated?
  • What regulatory organisation are they registered with and what protections does this afford you?
  • Are client funds insured against fraud at the firm?
  • Are client funds insured against bankruptcy of the firm?

3. Execution

  • What business model do they operate?
  • How fast is their order execution?
  • Are orders manually or automatically executed?
  • What is the maximum trade size before you are put on manual execution?
  • Are all clients trades offset?

4. Spread

  • How tight is the spread?
  • Is it fixed or variable?
  • Is it larger for mini accounts?

5. Slippage

  • How much slippage can be expected in normal and fast moving markets?

6. Margin

  • What is the margin requirement? e.g. 0.25% (max 400:1 leverage), 0.5% (max 200:1 leverage), 1% (max 100:1 leverage), 2% (max 50:1 leverage), etc.
  • Does it change for different currency pairs or days of the week?
  • Is it the same for standard and mini accounts?

7. Commissions

  • Do they charge commissions? (Most market makers commissions are built into the spread, whereas ECN's charge a small fee)

8. Rollover Policy

  • Is there a minimum margin requirement in order to earn rollover interest?
  • What other requirements or conditions are there for earning rollover interest?

9. Trading Platform

  • How reliable is it during fast moving markets and news announcements?
  • How many different currency pairs can you trade?
  • Do they offer an Application Programming Interface (API) for automated trading systems?
  • Does it offer any other special features? (e.g. One click dealing, trading from the chart, trailing stops, mobile trading etc.)

10. Trading Account

  • What is the minimum account opening balance?
  • What is the minimum trade size?
  • Can you adjust the standard lot size traded?
  • Can you earn interest on unused equity in your account?
Source: http://www.goforex.net/forex-broker-guide.htm

Tuesday, February 26, 2008

Acne and Blackheads - Cure n Prevention

Do you suffer from acne and blackheads? Are you looking for a answers about how to with this unpleasant reality?

The necessity to discuss this topic came about after a business meeting I had with someone. The person I met with had a terrible case of blackheads, and I was rather distracted by it. They were so noticeable. Of course I would never have said anything to this individual directly, but the experience prompted me to provide some helpful information on battling this common skin problem.

First of all you might wonder what the difference is between a blackhead and a whitehead. A blackhead is a comedone formed when the opening of a hair follicle becomes wider than normal. Because the follicle opening is wider, the sebum (sebaceous glands produce a substance called sebum, which is responsible for keeping the skin and hair moisturized) and the sloughed off dead skin cells react chemically with the air, resulting in the oxidation of melanin, which in turn causes the dark coloration of the blackhead.

On the other hand, a whitehead is a comedone formed from a hair follicle that is not open to the air.

It is also clogged with sebum and sloughed off dead skin cells, but the lack of exposure to the air does not lead to the oxidation of melanin, so the clogged matter stays white.

Ultimately acne results from infection of the oil gland due to the blockage by the blackhead. Therefore preventing and removing blackheads helps to control acne. So here are some tips on battling blackheads:

According to Deepi Brar of Caremark Health resources, you should "wash your skin twice a day gently with water and a mild soap, but don't overdo it." And every article I have read indicates that using a harsh soap and scrubbing too hard can actually make things worse. Brar also suggests that "after a hard workout, shower and shampoo right away so sweat doesn't combine with surface oils to block pores." Additonally, "be sure to use skin-care products that won't clog your pores.

  • My own esthetician tells me to use a gentle exfoliant to keep dead cells off of the skin and away from the pore openings. Two of my favorite exfoliants are the ZIRH SCRUB Face Exfoliant and the MenScience Microfine Face Scrub.
  • "Excessive squeezing can damage the skin surround the pore and can actually increase the size of the pore leading to more blackheads in the future" says Mike Singh of EzineArticles.com.
  • Remove blackheads yourself, the folks at mankind.co.uk say to "soften the skin by having a hot shower or by steaming your face over a bowl of hot water." Then you "can then either use a tissue and clean fingers to gently squeeze out the blockage..."
  • Blackheads and whiteheads can also be treated with topical products like benzoyl peroxide and tretinoin. In my experience Benzoyl peroxide has a tendency to dry your skin out, but it does reduce clogging. Tretinoin, on the other hand, forces the closed comedones (the whiteheads) to open up so you can more easily expunge the matter inside.

Source: By Daniel Billett

Skin Whitening Zeal - The Fight Against Black Enzyme


Skin Whitening Zeal - The Fight Against Black Enzyme

Do you know what is the biggest enemy of skin’s natural fairness? The answer is simple: black enzymes.

Do you know that Asian skin is more prone to dark spots? Skin color is determined by the amount of pigment (or melanin) present. Asian skin contains a heterogeneous mix of 2 types of melanin – phaeomelanin and eumelanin – that results in pigmentation irregularities such as dark spots and increased sensitivity to sunlight.

Over the past years, aesthetics companies and medical professionals have been introducing numerous skin whitening innovations into the consumer market, ranging from high-end niche treatments to budget skin whitening solutions, all of which promise to deliver that desirable lightening result on your skin, to give you that lovely fair skin that you have always wanted.

When it comes to fashion, you choose what fits you. With such an overwhelming range of skin whitening options available, how do you decide which is the real effective skin whitening solution that is going to work for you? Savvy consumers will know that it is not sufficient to just choose the best skin whitening product / treatment, you have to choose the skin whitening product / treatment that works best for you.

Consumers can consider the following guidelines when they are looking for a skin whitening remedy or are already in the midst of a skin whitening course:

1. Identify your problem

- There are many types of facial pigmentation. The most common types are freckles, solar lentigines (or age spots), melasma and Hori’s naevus. Many have a genetic basis, although factors like sunlight, ageing and hormones also play an important role. By identifying the source of your problem, you will know how to pick out the product / treatment that is going to help you rectify it.

2. Have some basic knowledge about skin whitening ingredients


- Every company has its own specialty skin whitening ingredients that are responsible for delivering that miracle on your skin. But how do you know that some of these virtually unknown ingredients are going to do the trick? A savvy consumer should not be going to a counter and take at face value in what the salesperson says during that 10 – 20 minutes of sales talk. Instead, listen to the salesperson, take a step back, do some simple research on the ingredients or talk to your dermatologist to see if this particular skin whitening product is going to be useful in solving your problem. There is no point buying a product whose only effects are to moisturize and provide your skin with UV protection when what you actually need is a product that can lighten melasma.

3. Be a responsible consumer

- Broadly speaking, it is possible to prevent / reduce skin pigmentation because many types of pigmentation are induced and aggravated by sunlight, therefore a suitable product and sufficient sun protection can delay the onset of skin pigmentation or improve the appearance. Using a skin lightening product may help improve the pigmentation, but regular use of sunscreen and active sun avoidance is also compulsory and should be undertaken responsibly.

4. Understand that not every product / treatment works for everyone

- Topical skin lightening products are effective for melasma. However, laser therapy does not work very well for melasma. In fact, laser may sometime cause temporary darkening (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation), which can last several months. On the other hand, laser therapy is effective for pigmentation such as freckles, solar lentigines and Hori’s naevus.

5. Talk to a medical professional when necessary

- Besides sunlight, certain types of pigmentation – specifically melasma and Hori’s naevus – can be stimulated and worsened by hormonal factors, for example during pregnancy, taking oral contraceptives or hormone replacement. In such cases, topical skin whitening products will not be able to rectify the problems effectively. Instead of hopping from one product to another and exposing your skin to further damages, talk to a medical professional who will advise the appropriate treatment options for you. Solve the problem when it is at the early stage, not when it gets out of hand.

Source: Skin Whitening Zeal - Robert Sorutka

Mineral Makeup-Natural Makeup for a Healthier Skin

Mineral Makeup-Natural Makeup for a Healthier Skin

Mineral makeup is nothing new. In fact the Egyptians were using it over two thousand years ago. However it’s now back at a makeup counter near you bringing with it freshness, convenience and a much healthier skin.

So the advent of mineral makeup to the cosmetic counters is a major breakthrough in healthy living and skincare.

Mineral cosmetics have their basis in ground-up minerals, including various metal ores and iron oxide. Being natural, they are allergen-free and contain no chemical dyes, added preservatives, fillers, perfumes, oils or talc – or other ingredients commonly found in traditional makeup products.

Mineral makeup contains only pure mineral pigments in concentrated form. Due to their concentration they perform the functions of concealer, foundation and powder - and incredibly all in a single application which binds to the skin so well that very little touch-up is required as the day progresses.

After mineral makeup is first applied – and this can be done very simply with a brush - the skin might appear a little powdery, but after a short time you will find that it is taken up very well by the natural oils within the skin.

And incredibly, you’ll find that by nighttime your face will look just as fresh as it did in the morning when the makeup was first applied, without shine or streaks.

Mineral makeup’s purity means that it works well with most skin types and you will find that it adds a day-long youthful sheen to your skin. But it also possesses several other benefits:

SUNSCREEN

Mineral foundation powders also contain zinc oxide and titanium dioxide that act as a reflective coating which blocks the harmful effects of the sun. In addition natural forms of Vitamins A and E are regularly added which have anti-oxidant benefits and also help prevent photo aging of the skin.

ANTI-ALLERGY

Since synthetic dyes, perfumes and preservatives are avoided in the composition of mineral makeup, there is little risk of skin sensitivity to the ingredients, resulting in a considerably reduced risk of longer-term allergic reactions.

EASY APPLICATION

Mineral makeup can be applied quickly and easily with a brush or sponge, and when applied to clean moisturized skin, it doesn’t smear or run. To immediately do away with the initial powdery effect, all you need to do is mist your face lightly even with ordinary water.

VERSATILITY

Due to it’s day-long enduring qualities, mineral makeup is not only ideal for those with hectic lifestyles, but it has also found favor in the film and tv industries. Plus, it is often provides a great solution for many with existing skin problems, such as those caused by burns.

Now let’s take a look at the cost. If you are used to cosmetic counter prices, you aren’t going to be totally shocked. However, you should also consider the savings you can make by using mineral makeup. What would you normally put on your face before venturing out in the morning? After a moisturizer, how about a primer? Then there are concealers, foundation, blusher, creams, powder…

However when using mineral makeup, after using a moisturizer, you’ll find that many products which were once a part of your daily regimen, now become totally redundant. So the overall savings could be quite significant. And think about the time saving too!

Modern mineral makeup represents a major advance not only in cosmetics but also in skincare and your overall well-being.

BY DR. BIANCA TAVARES

Sunday, February 24, 2008

Keeping Skin Young

Keeping Skin Young: 5 Things That Will Age Your Skin
We all want perfect skin. We shovel out tons of money on products in the hopes of reversing the signs of aging or grasping on to the tail end of our youth. Unfortunately, while there are many bridges we'd cross in the attempt to ward off wrinkles, there are still several many more we refuse to even consider. Think you're doing everything to save your precious skin? If you're guilty of one or more of these sins against skin then you may be at risk for the signs of aging far before you're time.
  1. Over Exposure to Sun: The sun is vital to our existence and you should enjoy it but do so with caution. No matter what time of the year it is always apply sun screen of 15spf or more. Exposure to the suns raise can result in a host of of skin issues ranging from pre-mature aging to cancer. No matter how much you love that tan hue, keeping your skin fair can preserve it for years to come.

  2. Skipping Out on Z's: When you sleep you recharge your body and it does a once over so to speak. Chemicals are released and actions are taken to remove toxins from the body. When you don't get enough sleep this doesn't happen properly and will eventually take a toll on your skin. So if you're used to long nights with little sleep you may want to start figuring out how to get some rest.

  3. Smoking: There are these pesky little things called "free radicals, " that come from various pollutants and can cause tons of problems for your body. Cigarette smoke is responsible for releasing these radicals into the air and into your skin. Even if you only smoke occasionally, it's still enough to subject your skin to damage. Besides the impact of smoke on your face, you may also want to consider the action of smoking in and of it's self. For those of you or are habitual in your nicotine affair, you're constantly putting you face in the position for lines and wrinkles every time you pucker up and inhale.

  4. Picking Prodding and Popping: It's so tempting. You see it glaring at you in the mirror ruining an otherwise stunning makeup job. It's there a few days before the big date or the interview. As much as you don't like to admit it, you probably are or at least have been guilty of popping those pesky pimples. Unfortunately, while it may be a short term kinda solution it can create a long term issue that will not reflect well on your pretty face in the future.

  5. Drinking: Ever notice how horrible your face looks after a night of heavy drinking? Alcohol dehydrates your body and thats not good for your skin either. Lack of moisture can make it far easier to damage your skin permanently especially when combined with other skin damaging activities.
Article Source: www.makeuptip.com.

Alphabet of Happiness

Alphabet of Happiness

A--Accept

Accept others for who they are and for the choices they've made even if you have difficulty understanding their beliefs, motives, or actions.

B--Break Away

Break away from everything that stands in the way of what you hope to accomplish with your life.

C--Create

Create a family of friends whom you can share your hopes, dreams, sorrows, and happiness with.

D--Decide

Decide that you'll be successful and happy come what may, and good things will find you. The roadblocks are only minor obstacles along the way.

E--Explore

Explore and experiment. The world has much to offer, and you have much to give. And every time you try something new, you'll learn more about yourself.

F--Forgive

Forgive and forget. Grudges only weigh you down and inspire unhappiness and grief. Soar above it, and remember that everyone makes mistakes.

G--Grow

Leave the childhood monsters behind. They can no longer hurt you or stand in your way.

H--Hope

Hope for the best and never forget that anything is possible as long as you remain dedicated to the task.

I--Ignore

Ignore the negative voice inside your head. Focus instead on your goals and remember your accomplishments. Your past success is only a small inkling of what the future holds.

J--Journey

Journey to new worlds, new possibilities, by remaining open-minded. Try to learn something new every day, and you'll grow.

K--Know

Know that no matter how bad things seem, they'll always get better. The warmth of spring always follows the harshest winter.

L--Love

Let love fill your heart instead of hate. When hate is in your heart, there's room for nothing else, but when love is in your heart, there's room for endless happiness.

M--Manage

Manage your time and your expenses wisely, and you'll suffer less stress and worry. Then you'll be able to focus on the important things in life.

N--Notice

Never ignore the poor, infirm, helpless, weak, or suffering. Offer your assistance when possible, and always your kindness and understanding.

O--Open

Open your eyes and take in all the beauty around you. Even during the worst of times, there's still much to be thankful for.

P--Play

Never forget to have fun along the way. Success means nothing without happiness.

Q--Question

Ask many questions, because you're here to learn.

R--Relax

Refuse to let worry and stress rule your life, and remember that things always have a way of working out in the end.

S--Share

Share your talent, skills, knowledge, and time with others. Everything that you invest in others will return to you many times over.

T--Try

Even when your dreams seem impossible to reach, try anyway. You'll be amazed by what you can accomplish.

U--Use

Use your gifts to your best ability. Talent that's wasted has no value. Talent that's used will bring unexpected rewards.

V--Value

Value the friends and family members who've supported and encouraged you, and be there for them as well.

W--Work

Work hard every day to be the best person you can be, but never feel guilty if you fall short of your goals. Every sunrise offers a second chance.

X--X-Ray

Look deep inside the hearts of those around you and you'll see the goodness and beauty within.

Y-- Yield

Yield to commitment. If you stay on track and remain dedicated, you'll find success at the end of the road.

Z--Zoom

Zoom to a happy place when bad memories or sorrow rears its ugly head. Let nothing interfere with your goals. Instead, focus on your abilities, your dreams, and a brighter tomorrow.

Saturday, February 23, 2008

Rose festivites attract foreigners too....

Rose Festival at Chandigarh (India)
The Rose Festival not only attracts Chandigarh residents, but also managed to grab the attraction of a number of foreigners. “I have come to India for the first time. I have been fortunate to see an Indian carnival,” said Kevin, a tourist from England.

A number of foreigners were seen visiting the festival and clicking photographs of roses and various plant samples on display. Salma and Nada from Sudan said, “The fest has been well organized.”

The Ride on a camel was also a favorite among the foreign tourists. “It is a unique experience,” said Catherine from Canada.

Dale Kenyon, a tourist from Canada has visited the rose fest regularly.

However, the tourists seem to be ambushed by urchins and beggars in the vicinity. “These beggars are irritating as they do not let us enjoy the festival,” said a lady from Canada.

Most of the tourists preferred to spend time exploring the festival. “We have come to see the people and observe their culture and tradition,” said Catherine.

Source: http://www.expressindia.com/latest-news/Rose-festivites-attract-foreigne...

Superfluous Hair

Superfluous Hair

Superflous hair or hirsutism maybe due to heredity or ethnic causes.A mild hirsutism might be seen in women after menopause.

Remedy -

  1. Bleaching: Bleaching is one way of making existing hair less conspicuous-it is good for down, rather than for thick coarse hair.It is the most commonly used method for camouflaging facial hair.But blaching might cause irritations in some.
  2. Shaving: It is a fallacy that hair grows faster and becomes coarser after shaving.Yes, after shaving hair does reappear with great rapidity(within 24 hrs), because shaving cuts the hair just at the surface.
  3. Pumice Stone: Abrasives in the form of pumice stones and special emery covered mitts and pads, are frequently used to remove unwanted hair.Though this method is cheap, its effects are temporary.This method is most effectively used on moderately coarse hair of the legs and arms and is not practical for use on the face.
  4. Chemical Depilation: Depilatory agents such as creams, lotions and sprays used in the method of depilation may cause irritation and dryness of the skin and thus should never be used on broken skin.However conduct a patch test before using any of the depilatory agents.
  5. Waxing: This is one of the oldest methods of removing hair.However, the wax should be warmed to the right temperature(neither too hot or too cold) and applied by an expert.If doing at home use cold waxing method instead.Waxing reduces hair growth if done frequently and is the best method of hair removal
  6. Plucking And Threading: These methods are usually reserved for eye-brows, hair on the upper lip and chin and for removing odd hair around the nipples.These methods do not increase hair growth.
  7. Electrolysis: Electric epilation is considered a safe and a cosmetically acceptable method of removing unwanted hair permanently.It is a useful way of getting rid of facial hair, but for hairy arms and legs it might prove too expensive and time-consuming.

7 Steps to Great Makeup

7 Steps to Great Makeup

1. Avoid wearing too much

Makeup is meant to enhance features not bring negative attention to you. That's what wearing too much makeup will do; it will bring you unwanted attention. Don't wear too much of anything such as:

  • Eyeliner: dark, thick eyeliner will make you look overdone and will ruin the rest of your makeup.
  • Mascara: too much mascara looks fake and will flake. It looks especially bad if worn with thick eyeliner or dark blue eye eye shadow.
  • Foundation: Make sure your foundation is the same color as your skin. Foundation is meant to protect and give the face a smooth look. The magic word is blend.
  • Powder: The same holds true for powder - not too much. Also, be sure to blend your makeup so there are no obvious lines.

2. Lips

Apply lip liner to completely cover the lips, add color and your lipstick will stay on much longer. Make sure your lip liner doesn't show. Also, your lip color should match your skin tone; wear cool colors if you have cool coloring and warm colors if you have warm coloring. If you want to make your lips look smaller, keep your liner on the inside of your lips. However, if you decide to make your lips look larger, going outside the natural outline of you lips is a mistake. This can look quite messy and unnatural.

3. Appropriate makeup

Wear makeup that is appropriate for the occasion. If you are going to the beach you shouldn't wear the same or as much makeup as you would if you were going dancing. Also, when you are in daylight your makeup should be a lighter than when you are out for the evening.

4. Too little or no makeup

Some women don't wear makeup because they are not sure how to use it and are afraid of being overdone. If you are unsure, start will light colours in your shade. Start slowly and add one product at a time. Maybe start with foundation, add mascara, blush or lipstick. If you are not used to wearing makeup, using a lot a first may be a little too much for you, so start slowly. The bottom line is a little is better than none. If you are still unsure seek professional advice.

5. Overall look

When your makeup is completed it should look natural. That means avoiding colours that clash. If you have dark skin and hair you will look better in darker shades; light colours will make you look washed out. If your hair and skin tone are light, light colours will look better on you. Dark makeup will make you look older and harsh. If you haveoily skin, first use oil control moisturizer and foundation. Then be sure to wear loose powder, keeping pressed powder with you for touch ups.

6. Hair color

Your hair color should also be in harmony with your skin. If you have dark hair and you want to add color, keep it close to the same shade. If you have light hair, use light colors. As you age your skin will lighten, so should your hair color. One last thing about hair color - if you do color you hair be sure you keep it up, don't let your roots show.

7. One last thing

Keep makeup looking fresh all day by doing regular touch ups. Don't let your makeup fade or crease. Smile!!!

Sheila Dicks is a wardrobe and image consultant who teaches women how to look slimmer by dressing to suit their body type. Visit her athttp://www.sheilasfashionsense.com to download a copy of her e-bookImage Makeovers and get How to Build a Wardrobe free.

Friday, February 22, 2008

The health and beauty of a good night's sleep

by Cathy Gatson
Sleeping is a necessity, not a luxury. A good night's sleep is just as crucial to maintaining wellness as is a healthy diet and proper exercise.

The Importance of Sleep
Sleep is a restorative process. While we're sleeping, our brain is cycling through the 3 stages of sleep: light, deep and REM. Sleep restores, rejuvenates and energizes the body and brain. Our immune systems are recharged, cells grow and repair themselves, and our bodies conserve energy.

Dangers of Sleep Deprivation
Unfortunately, to many sleep is not valued. In this "open all night" society we now live in, four out of ten Americans are trading much-needed sleep hours for longer hours at the office, gym, club and other activities which seem more important or interesting. What they may not realize is that lack of sleep takes a toll on our mental and physical well being. Studies performed by the National Sleep Foundation show that even minimal sleep loss has a profoundly detrimental impact on mood, cognition, performance, productivity, communication skills, accident rates and general health. For optimal functioning throughout the day, the average adult needs between seven to nine hours sleep a night. According to the NSF, the American adult population functions on about six and a half hours of sleep per night.

Don't Sleep?
For some, lack of sleep is not a choice, but a condition. Millions of Americans suffer from insomnia. According to the NSF, a third of Americans are using over the counter or prescription sleep aids at night. If you suffer from insomnia, here are a few tips to help you get some shut eye:

  • Pray before bedtime. The bible tells us to "Cast your burden upon the Lord. Don't go to bed with a heavy load. Give it to God. Remember Joy comes in the morning"
  • Avoid caffeinated food and beverages like coffee, teas, soft drinks and chocolate 3 to 4 hours before bedtime.
  • Exercise regularly, but complete your workout at least three hours before bedtime. Keep your body calm.
  • Make sure your mattress is the right one for you. Flip your mattress over periodically.
  • Develop a bedtime ritual. Taking a warm bath 90 minutes before bedtime will relax your body and usually make you feel sleepy.
  • Make sure your bedroom is quiet and comfortable.
  • Have a cup of warm milk.
  • Play relaxing music.
  • Go to bed and wake up the same time every day. When your sleep cycle has a regular rhythm you will feel better.

Be a Sleeping Beauty
A friend of mine once told me that a woman should present herself to her husband at bedtime like a present. Interesting?so I polled a few colleagues and found overall most husbands prefer their wives to be lingerie clad at bedtime. Nude came in a very close second and pajamas were considered very un-sexy. Wives preferred their hubbys wear only boxers to bed. Whatever your sleepwear preference, bedtime is the opportunity to prepare your mind and body for the rest it deserves. Here are a few more tips to help you sleep pretty:

  • Always remove your makeup and cleanse your face thoroughly before bed (Oil of Olay Foaming Face Wash for Sensitive Skin). Going to bed without washing your face not only leads to mascara-stained sheets (Andrea Eye Q's eye makeup remover pads $3.50+ voted best by Allure Magazines 1999) but the dirt picked up during the day can clog pores and lead to acne.
  • Brush and floss your teeth.
  • Vaseline works wonders on rough spots while you sleep. Try it on feet, elbows, and knees and dab a little on your lips too.
  • There are several night creams on the market now claiming to be more effective if applied at bedtime, here are a few to try: Lancome - Primoridale Intense Night Cream $41.50, Murad Perfecting Night Cream $41.50. If these prices are more than you normally spend then L'Oreal Age Perfect Night Cream and Oil of Olay ProVital night creams are available at Wal-Mart and Target. Prices range from $14 - $15.
  • If you wrap your hair in a scarf at bedtime, remember to wash it regularly.
  • Wear your fancy nighties to bed. Don't save them for a special occasion. You are a special occasion.
  • After your bath or shower ritual slather on a lotion that relaxes you and helps you fall asleep like Origins Night-a-mins moisture lotion or Calm to Your Senses Body Souflee.
  • Marilyn Monroe is said to only have worn Chanel No.5 to bed but if you prefer something a little lighter then Issey Miyake's L'Eau D'Issey Soothing Night Fragrance is a good pick.

Here's wishing you brighter days and more restful nights!

Cathy Gatson is a freelance writer and owner/operator of a hair and body salon located in Northern California.