Category: Beauty and Fashion Tips

Since 2006, breast augmentation has been the top cosmetic procedure, and in 2016 290,000 procedures were performed.

Women decide to have breast augmentation for a number of reasons, including to improve their self-image and confidence, to balance breast symmetry, or to reconstruct following breast cancer treatment.

Whatever the reason for deciding to have the procedure, women who do go in for breast augmentation face another choice: silicone or saline?

Choosing one type of implant over the other may be a matter of personal preference for the look and feel, but it’s important to be aware of the specific differences between the two so you can get your perfect look.

If you’re interested in breast augmentation surgery and want to know more, read on.

Below, we’re discussing both silicone and saline implants so that you can make the choice that’s best for you.

1. Silicone Implants

Every woman who goes in for breast augmentation surgery should feel confident when choosing silicone or saline. In addition to an elastomer silicone shell, silicone breast implants are also filled with viscous silicone gel.

Pros and Cons of Silicone Implants

One of the pros of silicone implants is that they tend to have a more natural feel. That’s because silicone gel has the same texture and consistency as human fat.

Most silicone implants also have multiple shell layers surrounding the gel, which makes safer and leak-free.

While the multi-layer shell makes silicone implants safe, it also can make the implant feel firmer, which is not everyone’s preference.

The incision required for a silicone implant may also be larger than with other implants.

2. Saline Implants

Like silicone implants, saline implants also have an elastomer silicone shell. The difference is that saline implants are filled with a sterile saline solution and not silicone gel.

Pros and Cons of Saline Implants

One of the benefits of saline implants is that they can be filled to a specific size, so you can truly create a custom implant that is based on your body size and preference.

Some feel that saline implants do not give the same natural feel as silicone implants, which could be a reason not to choose them.

They also can rupture more easily than a silicone implant, although if saline implants do leak it is obvious to tell and there is no harm caused.

3. Choosing Silicone or Saline

There is no one type of breast implant that is better than the other, it is simply a matter of personal preference. You should also consult with your doctor to make the decision.

For example, if you are interested in a breast augmentation, Beverly Hills is a great place to go to consult expert physicians.

Ready to Make a Decision about Silicone or Saline?

The more information you have about the differences between silicone and saline breast implants, the more confident you’ll feel in making a decision.

If you have any questions, your doctor should be able to answer them and guide you through the process so you are as comfortable as possible.

For more information or any questions, please feel free to contact me at any time.

Do you lack the youthful glow you used to have a decade ago?

Have you looked into getting a facelift, but denied it as an option to avoid going under the knife?

The answer for many women and men reluctant to undergo surgery is a non surgical facelift.

This solution to the problem of aging skin can undo years from your face, without the complications or cost of a traditional facelift.

There are also a variety of options, some that can be combined and customized to get the results that you are interested in.

In addition, you can pick the option that is best for you and your situation as far as time, the number of appointments, and cost.

Read on to learn more about the options when considering a facelift that is non surgical.

What is a non surgical facelift?

The definition of a non surgical facelift is one that is minimally invasive and avoids a full fledge surgery.

These methods still bring volume to rejuvenate your face, but in most cases, at a lesser risk.

However, it is important to mention that almost all methods still involve a specialist or doctor to administer the treatment.

Here are five methods worth mentioning in minimally-invasive facelifts.

1. Microcurrent Therapy

Microcurrent therapy works by sending tiny pulses through the skin, back and forth through the muscle layer.

This works by improving the muscle quality, which is also why this method is often used for back pain by physical therapists.

This method can be effective for women who are looking for minor improvement in their skin, and there is minimal downtime for it.

2. Thermage

Thermage is a treatment that uses radiofrequency waves to improve damaged and aging skin.

It works by using these waves to stimulate the production of collagen, which in turn, removes wrinkles.

This solution offers minimal downtime, and it works deep in the tissue to correct aging skin.

3. Botox

Botox is one of the most well-known non surgical options, with 4,267,038 procedures in the US in 2015 alone.

It is known as a neuromodulator and is injected into the muscles of the face. This causes the face to relax, which prevents the muscles from contracting.

This lack of contraction is what causes wrinkles to disappear since contraction can lead to wrinkles. This makes them very effective in treating fine lines, especially in the forehead, around the eyes, and between the eyebrows.

Results appear within three to seven days and last three to four months, so ongoing treatment is likely to continue the desired result.

4. Radiesse

Radiesse is a type of injectable filler that is a non-permanent wrinkle solution. It is especially effective for deep wrinkles.

It is more expensive than other filler options, but it lasts longer and requires fewer treatments to achieve results.

This treatment is especially recommended for wrinkles around the nostrils and mouth.

5. Facial Exercise

Facial exercise is the least invasive method on this list and stands out because it is something you can do from home.

There are dozens of different exercises you can do daily to see results over time. It is important to do them regularly and to make these part of your everyday routine.

This can be as fun as you’d like to make it, and you could incorporate it any way that works for you. You could even do it as part of your regular exercise, like during at-home yoga.

As well, you can use this option in combination with another method, as long as it is healed and as long as the person who administers the treatment gives you the O.K.

Benefits of a non surgical facelift

Overall, there are numerous benefits to getting a facelift. You feel more confident, radiant, and younger.

These methods are minimally-invasive, and most have very little downtime. As well, the side effects are considered minimal especially in comparison to the traditional facelift.

In addition to these options, consider improving your overall health and wellness to reduce stress and future wrinkles.

Check out our article on five rejuvenating wellness activities you deserve to try to learn more about how these can improve your quality of life.

Since having your baby, you’ve noticed something alarming about your appearance: your hair is falling out at rapid speed.

During pregnancy, you loved your hair. You had that pregnancy glow going and your hair was more thick and lustrous.

Now, all the hair that’s falling out now is your body playing catch up. Some women even develop small bald patches and receding hairlines.

So don’t worry, this sudden hair loss is only temporarily.

But, that doesn’t mean you can’t take matters into your own hands and do some things to stimulate hair re-growth faster.

Below are 10 ways to combat postpartum hair loss.

Ways to Combat Postpartum Hair Loss

After pregnancy, increasing levels of hormones cause your hair to stay in a resting phase known as telogen. This phase keeps hair fall at a minimum, causing it to look thick and dense. It usually occurs about 5 to 6 weeks in and ends after 6 to 8 months.

Then, when your baby is born, estrogen levels start to decline and the hair that was in the resting phase for so long begins to fall out. Generally, your hair will return to its normal self after 6-8 months. But in the meantime, it can be very disheartening to deal with hair that is falling out rapidly, as well as hair that is extra dry, oil, limp, or broken.

The following home remedies are effective in keeping your hair healthy and promoting regrowth.

1. Vitamins

When combatting postpartum hair loss, it’s best to start at the root of the problem. That is, you want to look internally first and figure out if you’re deficient in any vitamins or minerals.

Low zinc, iron, Vitamin B, and Vitamin C can all be contributing to your rapid hair loss. So take supplements or look for foods rich in these vitamins and minerals to combat the problem. Foods such as leafy greens, legumes, sprouts, peas, oranges, yeast, buttermilk, curd, soya, nuts, and whole grains all contain nutrients that can help regenerate hair growth.

You can consult with your doctor to figure out what nutrients are missing from your diet.

2. Laser Cap

If you don’t want to make major changes in your diet and you want your hair back fast, consider getting a laser cap, like the Capillus.

Laser hair caps are FDA-approved, battery-operated laser therapy devices that work to prevent the progression of hair loss. These caps are comfortable to wear and you only have to wear them for 6 minutes per day under a sports cap. And, there are no known adverse side effects.

3. Fenugreek Seeds

Fenugreek seeds are a small, widely available herb that can work magic on your hair.

To use:

• Soak the seeds in water overnight
• Strain the water the following day and apply it to the scalp
• Leave it in for 1-2 hours
• Repeat process 1-2 times per week

This can take care of your postpartum hair loss by making your hair healthy and also get rid of dandruff.

4. Avoid Harsh Styling Tools

Tools that are harsh on your hair, such as fine-tooth brushes, straighteners, curling irons, blow dryers, and coloring products, should be avoided.

These products aren’t doing you any favors, as they tend to be too harsh on fragile hair. Instead, let your hair air dry and wear at naturally as much as possible. Avoid dying your hair during this time if possible as well. Use a wide-toothed comb to brush your hair, and only when it’s dry. Also, avoid heavy sprays and gels as much as possible.

5. Coconut

Coconut can be used in many forms to help combat postpartum hair loss.

You can massage coconut milk or coconut oil into your scalp to reduce the amount of hair loss. Or, you can burn the shell of the coconut and put the ashes in a jar. The next time you massage oil into your hair, add these ashes to the mixture.

Regular use of coconut cannot only reduce the amount of hair loss, but also make hair darker, shinier, and more voluminous.

6. Biotin

Check your shampoo and conditioner bottles for an ingredient called biotin.

This ingredient is known for stimulating hair growth. Biotin works by helping increase the body’s keratin. Keratin is a protein that makes up your hair, skin, and nails.

In a study conducted by the Ablon Skin Institute Research Center, scientists found that women who were given capsules containing biotin over a 90 day period experienced better hair growth than those who were given a placebo.

7. Oil Massage

Regularly massaging your hair with oil helps to increase blood circulation to the scalp. It also conditions the scalp and strengthens the roots of your hair.

Here’s what you should do:

• Apply lukewarm oil to your scalp (coconut or other)
• Gently massage your scalp for 5-10 minutes
• Leave it in overnight and wash out with a mild shampoo the following morning
• Repeat 2-3 times per week

8. Eat Healthy

We all know that your diet plays a huge role in your overall health, and your hair is no exception.

Make sure you are eating a diet that is chock full of vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds, and lean proteins. Avoid sugary, processed foods. For beverages, avoid juices and sodas. Instead, try to stick to natural juices and water.

9. Change Your Hairstyle

If you’ve been thinking about changing up your look, now is as good a time as any.

This is because changing your hairstyle, or even just shortening it, can prevent hair loss and can stimulate your hair to grow more.

Plus, a new hairstyle can be a great pick me up during those first exhausting months of recovery.

10. Avoid Stress

Yes, we realize this is easier said than done.

But, stress can make postpartum hair loss even worse. This is because it can disrupt your hair’s normal cycle and cause it to enter the telogen phase, meaning you lose more hair.

So, even though you’re a busy new parent, make sure you take time each day to engage in stress-reducing activities such as exercising, meditating, journaling, or drinking a mug of warm tea.

Postpartum Hair Loss: Wrap Up

Follow these tips, and your hair will be well on its way to its normal, healthy self.

Just remember, none of these tips are overnight fixes. You need to give it a few weeks’ time before seeing results, so stay patient. If you have questions about any of the tips listed in this article, please don’t hesitate to comment below.

Are you someone who likes to cozy up during the winter and forget about following an exercise plan?

As tempting as it is to sit indoors during the chilliest time of the year, you may be missing out on some awesome health benefits!

Working outside during the winter may actually have you burning more calories. Your heart will also strengthen when it works extra hard to pump blood back into your body as you run outdoors in the cold.

Don’t let the cold temps ruin your workout schedule. Here are seven of the best moisture-wicking winter workout outfits.

1. UnderArmour Women’s ColdGear Infrared Full Zip Hoodie

Gear up for your run in the cold with UnderArmour ColdGear hoodies.

A water-repellent jacket like this one is great for times when you’ll be sweating it out in the winter months. Just in case it starts to snow, this infrared hoodie will protect you from the harsh weather conditions as you run through your neighborhood.

The infrared technology embedded in this UnderArmour hoodie also maintains your body heat as you exercise. The multiple layers of thermo-conductive padding ensure a comfortable and durable protective coating.

With so many positive reviews, this hoodie qualifies as one of the best winter workout outfits.

2. Adidas Techfit Climawarm+ Tights

Flexible tights are a must when it comes to winter workout outfits. Adidas creates some of the best high-quality clothing for exercising. What sets their brand apart from the rest is the CLIMAWARM technology used in their cold gear.

Tights that keep out the cold are just what you need to invest in this winter season. Finding them at Adidas for under $100 will help you to conquer your fear of running in the chilly air.

Cute tights and trendy winter workout outfits will get you motivated to keep your body moving. If you don’t have the time or energy to work outside, why not wear these tights as you jump around in the house?

There are plenty of programs online you can follow, such as the BBG program created by Australian fitness guru Kayla Itsines. She crafted her own fitness plan to outline a comprehensive guide for women to follow. Most see real weight loss results in as little as 12 weeks.

Learn more about the bbg program to start your fitness journey from a digital perspective!

3. Mizuno Breath Thermo Stretch L/S Crew

Winter workout outfits are not complete without a layering long sleeve top underneath jackets and hoodies.

A Mizuno Thermo stretch long sleeve zip neck top will be your first step in getting ready to work out. This long sleeve top captures body vapor and maintains your body heat all day long.

These tops also come in a few colors options, which include black, bright pink, or blue for cute yet comfortable winter workout outfits.

4. North Face Dyvinity Jacket

Need a new winter jacket? Try the Dyvinity design from North Face this season as your new favorite versatile jacket.

People rave about this jacket so much that they consider purchasing it in other colors, so that means it must be a great pick! They say you won’t regret buying it, either.

The materials in this jacket include water and weather-resistant fabric. North Face as a brand is also known for incorporating WindWall fabric technology into their clothing.

This jacket also utilizes the power of WindWall fabric to reduce the harsh wind chill effects as you exercise in the cold. The WindWall fabric is top of the line in providing wind resistance.

The North Face Dyvinity jacket boats a feminine shape and plenty of room to layer clothes underneath. Its stylish and trendy design makes it a proud contender on our list for contributing to this season’s hottest winter workout outfits.

5. Winter Workout Outfits from Lululemon: Toasty Tech Tight II Pants

Pants are another item to stock up on for your winter training sessions. The Adidas pants will be one pair to have in your closet, but if you don’t already own a pair from Lululemon, let us describe why you should own the Toasty Tech Tight II Pants right now!

The Teach fleece within these pants from Lululemon is equipped with the ability to wick the sweat away while you exercise in them. Available in four colors, the Toasty Tech Tight II pants are ready to take on winter running sessions.

Even for weather conditions reaching the negatives, these pants do not falter despite the dropping temps. They’ll provide your body with the essential core warming factors necessary to feel comfortable.

Lululemon is known for creating designs that empower people to reach their goals and wear sleek designs in the process. Trust these pants to keep the chilly wind out, too.

The pockets along the sides of these pants are great for storing your keys or your phone while you exercise outdoors.

6. Athleta Vortex Jacket

There is nothing quite like the fit of a slim jacket during the winter. A lot of the time, brands will sell huge, bulky designs that look overwhelming. Forget about the bulkiness when you shop at Athleta for the Vortex Jacket.

The slim design of the Vortex Jacket makes it a highly recommended pick for our top winter workout outfits. The Polartec Microfleece fleece is soft and strategically covers the entire jacket for excellent protection.

If you are an everyday active person, the Vortex Jacket is perfect for your lifestyle. You can’t beat the fashion and function of this versatile jacket. The slim design is how you will accentuate your figure, from your arms to your waist!

The colors also mix well with other wintertime styles you may already own. You can order this jacket in a crimson-purple color or stick to a neutral black.

The Athleta Vortex Jacket is so comfy you won’t even want to take it off! You work hard on training your body, so why not find a winter jacket that actually looks good and reveals your slim figure? The Vortex Jacket is just what you’ve been looking for.

7. Manzella Windstopper Glove

How about bundling your delicate fingers in a pair of running gloves?

The gloves you wear may be an overlooked aspect of winter outfit planning, but they are actually very important to an optimal workout. While the rest of your body is insulated by wearing fleece-lined jackets and tights, don’t neglect your fingers!

Manzella has designed the perfect gloves for your hands. The technology incorporated within these gloves is WL Gore 3-layer material for the ultimate windproof protection.

The index finger and thumb also include touchscreen friendly capabilities for cell phone use. This allows you to easily make a call or send a text as you exercise during the winter.

These gloves are proven to fit all hand sizes and shapes. There’s a nifty chart on the Manzella website to guide to finding your true perfect fit.

The gloves are not too heavy or too warm. You can carry these gloves along with you if you live in the Northeast region or out west in the mountains.

Another key factor to look for when deciding what gloves to buy is if they allow the sweat from your hands to evaporative quickly. Any aerobic activity you participate in this winter season will be the ultimate test for these gloves, as they promise to keep your hands dry.

The Manzella gloves received outstanding 5-star ratings on Amazon, so their well-made design must hold true. The breathable and lightweight quality attached to the Manzella Windstopper Glove makes it our top pick on our list of items for winter workout outfits.

Need More Fitness Tips?

Fitness is a personal thing, but it’s universal at the same time. Beat the blues by challenging yourself to work out during the wintertime. You’ll look great wearing these comfortable yet stylish digs highlighted throughout this article.

Our blog Thrifty Momma Ramblings is your one-stop for everything from cleaning to cooking tips.

If you want to begin your own mommy blog, we have tons of advice on how to do so! Even if you are not the most tech-savvy momma, we can provide inspiration to guide you through the first steps toward owning your own business online.

Or, if you just want to browse our website for more tips and tricks on living life the frugal way, we offer a wide range of helpful tips to maintain a healthy lifestyle on a budget.

If you need any help learning how to balance family life and find the time to focus on your own fitness needs, feel free to reach out to us today.

Do your outfits feel a little bland? Are you looking for a way to spice things up without investing a whole new wardrobe?

A few well-chosen accessories can make all the difference! Add a brightly colored scarf or some jewelry to jazz up a plain black dress, or make a statement with a bold new purse.

If you’re not sure where to start when it comes adding accessories, don’t worry. Check out the list below to learn about the seven ladies accessories that every woman needs.

1. Scarves

We normally think of scarves as winter accessories, but they also work well during other seasons. Something small and lightweight, like a luxury silk bolero scarf, adds flair to your outfit, and you can also use them as head wraps and belts.

2. Purses

A good purse is essential. When you’re shopping for the perfect bag, be sure to take its size and shape into account:

• Short women look taller with small handbags
• Tall women look best with midsize to oversized styles
• Short women also look taller with long, rectangular bags
• Tall women benefit from round shapes
• Most women look best with a bag that hangs to the mid-torso

3. Wallets

Like a purse, a good wallet is key.

You’ll need a wallet that fits easily into your purse (or purses). You also need to think about the type of currency you’ll carry in it — do you need to carry around quarters for the laundromat? — as well as its storage capabilities — is there room for your driver’s license and credit cards?

4. Jewelry

You can never have too much jewelry, right? If you’re looking to enhance your collection, think about buying pieces that work well with your skin tone and face shape.

Gold jewelry and earth tones look best on people with warm skin tones, while silver and bright colors look best on cooler skin tones.

5. Sunglasses

Whether you prefer aviators, wayfarers, or oversized, sunglasses can be both flattering and functional. Look for pairs that block at least 99 percent of UBB rays and 95 percent of UVA rays.

6. Watches

A reliable watch is another important functional accessory. Watches come in tons of varieties, with round and square faces and tons of different colors and styles of bands.

If you wear a watch on a daily basis, look for a neutral-colored band that will match every outfit. You can also invest in watches with interchangeable bands; that way, you’ll always have an option to match your style and mood.

7. Hats

Whether it’s snowing or sunny, there’s a hat for every season. Look for a floppy, wide-brimmed hat to wear in the summer or a cute knit beanie for fall and winter. The options are endless!

How to Buy Ladies Accessories Without Breaking the Bank

Upgrading your closet doesn’t have to be a drain on your wallet. Follow these money saving tips to find affordable ladies accessories.

Look for Discounts

Before you head out, scour the internet for coupons and discount codes. There are often lots of offers available that very few people take advantage of. Since some stores offer online-only deals, you might also be able to get the accessories you’re after without leaving the house!

Check Out Thrift and Consignment Stores

Thrift and consignment stores are great for finding gently used accessories at a fraction of the price you’d pay at a regular store. You’ll be amazed at some of the hidden gems you can find!

Earn a Little Extra

If you really want a more expensive item, look into ways that you can earn a little extra money to help pay for it. Sell old clothes and accessories online or at a consignment store. You can also take paid surveys online and take advantage of cash back offers.

Whether you’re looking for more fashion advice or more tips on saving money while shopping for the styles you love, we’ve got the answers. Check out our other blog posts today!