If you want a night of soundsleep, consider having a light sleep-inviting snack about an hour before bedtime. Good choices include the following;

Half a Banana and a Handful of Almonds: The combination of tryptophan, carbs, and calming magnesium can help make you drowsy. Don’t like bananas? Have some cherries, a natural source of melatonin, instead.
Whole-Grain Crackers with Peanut Butter: It’s another magical combo (tryptophan + complex carbs) that will promote sound slumber.
A Mug of Warm Milk: Grandma was right—drinking warm milk before bedtime can help you sleep better, thanks to the dairy drink’s tryptophan, calcium, and magnesium. Just make sure it’s a small mug and not a huge glass, or else you’ll be running to the bathroom all night.
A Small Bowl of Whole-Grain Cereal with Milk: The milk’s tryptophan, calcium, and magnesium, coupled with the cereal’s calming carbs and magnesium can make you feel sleepy. Opt for a low-sugar cereal, so you don’t get a spike in blood sugar that could rev you up. Or make hot oatmeal with milk, because oatmeal is a rich source of sleep-promoting melatoniN.

Read more here http://signature.podozi.com/foods-to-eat-before-bedtime/

We’re kind of know-it-alls when it comes to beauty tricks, but even we have to admit we’ve never used our concealer like this before. See how drawing whiskers on your face (yes, like a cat’s!) can give your entire face a lift.

Step 1: Use a matte concealer stick to draw “whisker” lines on either side of your nose and mouth. Draw more vertical lines in the center of your forehead.

Step 2: With a luminous highlighter, draw more lines in between the first set you did. The highlighter lines should be on top.

Step 3: Blend with a brush. Add blush and/or cheek contour if desired.

The result: Your cheekbones and brow look lifted and your entire face looks more awake. Easy, right?

Read more here www.signature.podozi.com

I have been on a diet for almost 2 months now-I added a lot of weight. Weighing myself scared me-I couldn’t understand how I added so much, but when I began to reflect, I knew it was my fault-late night plantain and beans, yam and eggs, rice, ice cream, pizza….I ate all these things like there was no tomorrow and I paid with my weight size. The quest for my strict diet began with what I had for breakfast which was really stressful as the usual Nigerian breakfast consisted of yam and eggs, bread and eggs, ewa goyin and bread-all good foods but seriously unhealthy if taken without moderation.

After shedding some weight with rigorous exercise and a change in my diet, I do believe that I am the best person to help you with the best ideas for a healthy breakfast-some of which I followed and they really helped shed some weight.

Fruits. Fruits were my only option for breakfast after jogging. A mixture of my favorite fruits was always a treat to come back to.

Boiled eggs. Eggs are a rich source of protein, make sure you have at least one a day.

Read more here http://signature.podozi.com/ideas-for-a-healthy-breakfast/

When it comes to getting dolled up…or even heading out to the office, what is your makeup routine? Are you the more-is-better kind or a natural-is-better kind? Either way, there are tips for getting it right.

Face it, we all know women who overdo it… as in you-look-like-a-clown or like Christina Aguilera! And, when was the last time you thought, she’d be prettier without all the spackle? (C’mon, you can tell us.)

Now, look in the mirror. Does any of it sound a little too close to home?

In fact, I think many of us are excess makeup offenders and don’t even realize it! Not sure if your makeup look falls on the heavy-handed side? Take this quick test! If two out of your three answers is “yes,” you could be an over-applyer:

1.) Does your makeup make you look like a “prettier” version of yourself, or do you look like a completely different person when the makeup comes off?

If the latter, you might be wearing too much makeup.

2.) Does your foundation tend to “cake” and settle into facial crevices, or do you only apply it to the needed areas (like the T-zone, or under the eyes)?

If the former, you might be wearing too much makeup.

Read more here http://signature.podozi.com/tips-for-applying-the-perfect-amount-of-makeup/

Everyone wants the perfect look for every family gathering, office party or just get together this Christmas,. This post is tailored to meet that need as it focuses on the eyeliners you should try this Christmas and how to use them.

Glitter

Step 1: Prep the eye with primer and dust a neutral, nude shadow on the lid and just below the lower lashline.

Step 2: Take a highly pigmented glittery gold eyeliner or shadow pencil and draw a thick line across the lower lashline. Use a blender brush and blur the line outward.

Step 3: Apply a thick coat of mascara to the upper and lower lashes.

Green

Step 1: Prep your eyelid with eye primer and blend it well.

Step 2: Take a bright green liner and draw a line across the upper lid, winging it out at the end.

Step 3: Go over the line again to make it a bit thicker and build on the color intensity. Make sure the wing is distinct and feel free to exaggerate the length if needed.


Read more here http://signature.podozi.com/eyeliners-to-use-this-christmas/

Picking the Right Exfoliant

Not only will excessive exfoliation leave you with a ruddy complexion, but it can also disrupt the skin barrier and lead to increased sun sensitivity, a greater absorption of environmental toxins and even premature aging. Want to know how to achieve polished perfection in a few simple steps? First, you need to be sure you’re using the correct exfoliant for your skin type. The sheer variety can be overwhelming, so let’s break down the options.

Physical (or manual) exfoliants: These work by buffing off the dead skin cells and come in many forms. Some are granular scrubs which are massaged into the skin, emulsified with water and rinsed off. The granules typically comprise jojoba or other nut shells, but because these can scratch or even tear the skin, experts are now increasingly recommending gentler ingredients such as rice, chickpeas, bran and corn cob meal.

Chemical exfoliants: To de-gunk more deeply, consider a chemical-based formula. Don’t let the “C” word put you off these can actually be quite gentle! They function by dissolving the bonds between skin cells, and are particularly well suited for acneic or severely congested skin.

Read more here http://signature.podozi.com/doing-this-too-much/

Seasons Greetings People,

Are your party invites coming in fast, I haven’t gotten any invite yet, but I am sure something is gonna turn up soon. Yes, Owambe’s are important things, aren’t they? Lol

In this post, we will deal with looks for every party, from weddings to family gatherings, and office party for the new year.

Office Holiday Party

Some sort of work-related function is to be expected this time of year. And, we all know the importance of putting your best face forward when your boss is present. Go for a look that is the perfect blend of trendy and flawless, like a soft lid with a bold, bright lip. This combo is nothing short of impressive!

Family Gathering

Chances are, at some point this month, you will be seeing your grandmother … and the rest of your family. We all want to look good in front of the family, but a more put-together, sophisticated kind of “good”, right? Try an understated look, like the effortless, off-duty model or a sun-kissed, fresh-faced beauty. Grandma will be so proud.

Read the full article here http://signature.podozi.com/makeup-looks-for-holiday-parties/

Everybody wants a glowing skin. Everyone wants to look appealing to the eyes, and this is backed up by the numerous products you find in pharmacy stores and beauty stores. My grandma is an expert at mixing cream, Lord knows what she mixes together just so she could look younger and her skin smooth and silky-I never liked her experiments, they always made me itch, they had a foul smell, and I always looked like I had been soaked in a drum of oil anytime I used them. I cannot recollect when the natural oil trends began-but I know that it has taken over, everyone seems to be going natural. But what does Natural Skin Care mean, it simply using topical creams and lotions made of ingredients available in nature. These oils are said to be void of chemicals hence great for the skin.

JOJOBA OIL

Jojoba (pronounced ho-HO-ba) oil is a botanical extract of the seed of the jojoba tree. Technically it is not actually an oil, but rather what is called a wax ester. Out of all of the compounds in nature, this wax ester is the most similar to human skin oil (sebum). It is theorized that applying jojoba to the skin can “trick” the skin into thinking it is producing enough oil, thus balancing oil production. The bottom line for acne-prone people is that jojoba oil is non-comedogenic so you can use it without fear.

MARULA

This oil is rich and hydrating. It’s full of fatty acids, which dermatologists say soothe dry skin. It absorbs quickly and won’t leave you shiny or greasy. It is made from the fruit of the marula tree, which is native to South Africa.

ARGAN

This oil is sometimes called “liquid gold,” The argan oil is rich in antioxidants called polyphenols, which can fight the effects of aging. Dermatologists also say its omega-3 fatty acids boost collagen growth and plump up your skin. It works for all skin type.

It also conditions hair, but doesn’t weight it down or make it feel greasy. You can still use your other hair care products, too.

ROSEMARY AND CASTOR

Rosemary oil may help you get a thicker, shinier mane. Castor oil is another home remedy said to thicken brows and lashes.

MORINGA OIL

Moringa oil contains an extraordinarily high content of antioxidants, which protect the skin from sun damage and aging. Both the fatty acid profile and antioxidant content can diminish the appearance of wrinkles, it lightens skin tone, and deeply moisturize the skin.


COCONUT

Dry, cracked skin is more likely to get infected, irritated, and have allergic reactions. Coconut oil protects and moisturizes it, and soothes the scaly, rough patches that go along with common conditions like eczema, too. Bet you didn’t know this.

Read more here http://signature.podozi.com/best-natural-oils-for-a-glowing-skin/

Contouring is a means by which makeup artist’s and makeup junkies define their features-or alter them. It is the art of making some parts of your face appear slimmer than it usually will. When you apply foundation to your entire face, you’ve created a blank canvas, contouring is you adding precision to that blank canvas. Contouring creates the illusion of a stronger jawline, more chiseled cheeks and a slimmer face.

HOW TO CONTOUR

With the darker of the two stick foundations, “Trace the temples. If you have a larger forehead, carry straight into the hairline to minimize it,” Dam-Mikkelsen says. “To bring out your cheekbones, find the hollow part by placing your fingers on the sides of your face, and where you feel it dip underneath the bones, just above is where you place your pigment. With the nose, you can go a little bit narrower at the tip or you can carry it into the brow if you have a shorter nose to add length or width.”

Read more here http://signature.podozi.com/contour-like-a-pro/

There is nothing wrong in wanting to look good. But, we must also be health conscious. I know of people that won’t throw out their makeup products because of financial constraints or the products just haven’t been used enough. In our bid to look beautiful, we should also be health conscious.

This post will examine Beauty Products Dangers.

Does Makeup Expire?

Preservatives in the makeup may break down over time, allowing bacteria to grow. Experts offer the following “use by” guidelines:

Foundation – one year
Blush/powder/shadow – two years
Lipstick – one year
Mascara – 3-4 months
Throw out eye makeup immediately if you have an eye infection.

Hydroquinone

Hydroquinone is a skin lightener that is available by prescription or in a less potent strength over the counter. Dermatologists often recommend it for reducing age spots or dark patches known as melasma. Overuse of hydroquinone can cause skin discoloration. Animal studies have also linked the chemical to cancer, though the risk to humans is unclear. Scientists are currently studying hydroquinone’s safety

Nail Salon Hazards

Manicure products contain a wide range of chemicals, including formaldehyde, phthalates, acetone, or toluene. Their fumes may irritate the skin, eyes, nose, and respiratory tract. These reactions are more common in salon workers than in clients. Manicures and pedicures can also result in fungal or bacterial infections particularly if equipment has not been sterilized properly

Read the full article here http://signature.podozi.com/beauty-product-dangers/

Seasons Greetings People,

Are your party invites coming in fast, I haven’t gotten any invite yet, but I am sure something is gonna turn up soon. Yes, Owambe’s are important things, aren’t they? Lol

In this post, we will deal with looks for every party, from weddings to family gatherings, and office party for the new year.

Office Holiday Party

Some sort of work-related function is to be expected this time of year. And, we all know the importance of putting your best face forward when your boss is present. Go for a look that is the perfect blend of trendy and flawless, like a soft lid with a bold, bright lip. This combo is nothing short of impressive!

Family Gathering

Chances are, at some point this month, you will be seeing your grandmother … and the rest of your family. We all want to look good in front of the family, but a more put-together, sophisticated kind of “good”, right? Try an understated look, like the effortless, off-duty model or a sun kissed......

Read more here http://signature.podozi.com/makeup-looks-for-holiday-parties/

It may sound strange but it’s true: If your diet lacks essential nutrients, it can hurt your ability to concentrate. Eating too much or too little can also interfere with your focus. A heavy meal may make you feel tired, while too few calories can result in distracting hunger pangs.

Strive for a well-balanced diet full of a wide variety of healthy foods.

Eat Breakfast to Fuel Your Brain

Eating breakfast may improve short-term memory and attention. Students who eat it tend to perform better than those who don’t. Foods at the top of researchers’ brain-fuel list include high-fiber whole grains, dairy, and fruits. Just don’t overeat; researchers also found high-calorie breakfasts appear to hinder concentration.

Fish

A protein source linked to a great brain boost is fish — rich in omega-3 fatty acids that are key for brain health. These healthy fats have amazing brain power: A diet with higher levels of them has been linked to lower dementia and stroke risks and slower mental decline; plus, they may play a vital role in enhancing memory, especially as we get older.

For brain and heart health, eat two servings of fish weekly.

Add a Daily Dose of Nuts and Chocolate

Nuts and seeds are good sources of the antioxidant vitamin E, which has been linked in some studies to less cognitive decline as you age. Dark chocolate also has other powerful antioxidant properties, and it contains natural stimulants like caffeine, which can enhance focus.

Enjoy up to an ounce a day of nuts and dark chocolate to get all the benefits you need with a minimum of excess calories, fat, or sugar.


Read more here http://signature.podozi.com/foods-that-help-with-concentration/
Thank you

We all want the perfect pimped out nails without paying a dime for it-at least I do. I have a lot of nail polish at home, and some I cannot use because they always come out sticky-smudged and unattractive. I have mastered the art of getting a pimped out nail polish application for everyday wear and even for special occasions.

These are pro-steps for the best nail application for every occasion.

Trim and file your nails. Trimming them to the length that you want them and smoothing out the edges with a nail file will help you achieve a prettier, polished look, and will prevent your nails from chipping as quickly.


Read More http://signature.podozi.com/apply-nail-polish-like-a-pro/

We are all used to sharing our beauty products-I mean what is the big deal. There is a big deal there. Skin disease, nail fungus and all kinds of bacteria can infect you when you are really careful about your beauty tools and who uses them.

This post will dwell on the products you shouldn’t share and why you shouldn’t share them.

RAZORS

Razors have the possibility of drawing bloods or fluids, leaving bacteria on the blade even if you rinse it. Sharing Razors makes you vulnerable to infections, hepatitis and there’s even the chance of getting HIV.

LASH CURLER

Lash curlers can be shared as long as you sanitize them first. Make it easy on yourself by keeping a pack of anti-bacterial wipes handy for moments when you need ‘em.

Read More http://signature.podozi.com/beauty-products-you-should-never-share/

The need to always look good has always been the responsibility if a particular sex-the women. But, in recent times, we are now seeing men take more take of themselves, beard gangs and no hair gangs have taken over and they have inspired the ordinary man to look good.

Eyebrows

Is your eyebrow an eyesore? Plucking once in a while might be enough. Once every six to eight weeks should do it. Read here for how to prune eyebrows.

Breath

Bad breath is a turnoff. You know you have it when all the girls seem to take a step back when address you. Always brush in the mornings and night, use a mouth wash if you need extra protection. If you still have chronic bad breath despite precautions, see a dentist. You could have an infection or other problems.

FOR MORE, READ HERE >>> http://signature.podozi.com/grooming-tips-for-men