Once in awhile, when I am on the bus and heading home to Lewisham where multiculture has new meaning, I think about how women from all over the world must have very different beauty regimes. I have listed a few tips here, some word of mouth and others I read about or researched.
New Zealand - Manuka Honey. Wonder honey that has been used as a top skin tonic for generations. Originating from the Manuka tree native plant in New Zealand which is famed for it's antiseptic oil, the honey is rich in minerals and has a reputation for special germ-killing and wound healing abilities. Will help rejuvinate skin and combat acne. Works for dandruff and eczema as well. Most health food stores will stock.
http://www.hollandandbarrett.com/pages/iq.asp?xs=1527FF274E2E478E80F771BCE687349D&SearchText=mauka+honey
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/3787867.stm
China - They have incredible glossy hair. They tend to use a hair rinse made of rosemary and green tea.
The tea is rich in health-boosting antioxidants, rosemary is detoxifying and can help rid hair of impurities, giving it a healthy shine. Try Neal's Yard Remedies Rosemary & Thyme Shampoo (£5.25, 200ml)
Japan - Applying perfume properly is important and the Geisha's knew exactly which body parts worked best. Put on before you put anything else on. Wrists, base of the throat, behind the ear lobes, the bend in your elbows, and between the breasts. Do not dab your wrists together after applying perfume fragrances-this breaks down the scent. We all know that body heat rises, so apply perfume to the back of your knees to leave a lasting impression. Remember - less is more!
Greece - Yogurt isn't just a healthy snack you know! In Greece yogurt is a renowned topical beauty treatment. A natural source of lactose, proteins, vitamins and minerals, Greek yogurt has been used directly on the skin for years to treat sunburn and other skin problems. Lather all over your face for a mask - it's super hydrating. Just make sure it's the full fat kind. Usually stocked at your local grocery store.
Brazil - Cellulite busting. They must know what their doing in order to have so many gorgeous bod's on the beaches. It's quite simply sand. While relaxing on the beach Brazilian beauties rub wet sand on their bodies to smooth and stimulate their skin. I really can't see myself doing this as I don't have sand and I live nowhere near a beach but I am happy to exfoliate in the bath or shower. From personal experience it does work. Get a good brush or set of exfoliating gloves from Boots or other drug stores. Use an exfoliating scrub or bar of soap and lather up. You can buy soaps that have sand in them like Lush for Sandstone soap (£1.95, 100g). Rule is to go in the upwards direction towards your heart. Circular motion is fine on buttocks area. Gently does it on décolletage and thigh areas as the skin is more delicate here. Make sure you moisturise afterwards!
Israel - Look younger with Dead Sea products. People travel from all over the world to slather themselves in nutrient-rich mud from Israel's Dead Sea. Even Cleopatra is reputed to have travelled there from Egypt to immerse herself in its waters. Indulging in a black mud body wrap -a mixture of Dead Sea minerals - can cleanse and stimulate the skin, toning and firming tissues for a youthful glow or you can opt for a cheaper at home remedy using Dead Sea Magik products. Various prices at Waitrose or Ocado online.
France - The French see pampering as a top priority, and have strict beauty regimes, from applying creams all over their bodies to taking luxurious baths, using products only of the best quality. They feel that less is more, and would rather use a dab of concealer where they need it than plaster themselves in make-up. French women also believe that a woman is beautiful when she is comfortable with herself, and frown on excessive cosmetic surgery. Old doesn't mean unattractive, and many women prefer to age gracefully (think Juliet Binoche). Make time for pampering - set aside an evening a week where you can exfoliate your body and treat it to some moisturising products. Think yourself sexy - you are!
World Wide - Flawless skin. This can be put down to a single product that's cheap and easy to come by - water! Knocking back at least two litres of water every day will flush out toxins, also splash your face with water throughout the day to revitalise skin and reduce puffiness. Aim to drink at least six to eight glasses a day (very difficult I know - keep a glass at your desk so you're reminded).
- turn that frown upside down. Nobody is attracted to a grump (learned this from experience). Free.
Any more global tips are welcome!
Honky Tonk Face Lift - always look up when dancing with your partner.
ReplyDeleteFree. But only works in Texas.
Awesome! Next time I'm in Texas I'll give that whirl.
ReplyDeleteWest Coast Clove hair gloss - not just for dreads ;)
ReplyDeleteTowel dry hair, four drops of clove oil in the palm of your hands, rub together, smooth on hair.
whoa - good tip. Good to keep hair conditioned. Quite a natural smell - very west coast hippy S:)
ReplyDelete