But what many people don’t realize is that saunas have an array of proven health and fitness benefits that go far beyond mere “relaxation.” Here are a few of them:

*During a 10-20 minute sauna session, your heart rate increases by 50-75%. This provides the same metabolic result as physical exercise. The increased cardiac load is the equivalent to a brisk walk. There is a nominal effect on blood pressure because the heat also causes blood vessels in skin to expand to accommodate increased blood flow.

*Blood vessels become more flexible and there is increased circulation to the extremities. During a sauna, blood flow to the skin increases to as high as 50-70% of cardiac output (compared to the standard 5-10%). This brings nutrients to subcutaneous and surface tissue resulting in glowing healthy skin.

* Steam baths and saunas induce sweating to provide a comprehensive cleansing of the skin and sweat glands. Skin is the largest organ in the body. 30% of body wastes are passed through the skin. Profuse sweating enhances the detoxifying capacity of the skin by opening pores and flushing impurities from the body.

* When taking a sauna, skin temperature rises to 40°C (104°F) and internal body temperature rises to about 38°C (100.4°F). Exposure to the high heat creates an artificial fever state. Fever is part of the body’s natural healing process. Fever stimulates the immune system resulting in increased production of disease fighting white blood cells, antibodies and interferon (an anti viral protein with cancer fighting capability).

* Spas and other such therapeutic facilities utilize saunas and steam baths in conjunction with massage to loosen fatty tissue and assist in the battle against cellulite.

* Many regular steam and sauna users claim that a “good sweat” at the onset helps relieve and ward off the most severe symptoms of cold or flu.

Some of the other benefits associated with saunas and steam baths include:

* Relief from the pain and stiffness of arthritis.

* Steam is an excellent treatment for respiratory problems, such as; chest congestion, bronchitis, laryngitis and sinusitis.

* Revives tired and strained muscles after physical exertion.

* The cleansing effect of profuse perspiration helps provide healthy skin and a clear complexion.

The most popular method right now are the Whitening Strips. They come in individual packets. One for the top and another for the bottom. You stick them on the fronts of your teeth and wear for approximately 30 minutes. I found that if you dry your teeth before applying the whitening strip, they will stick better.

From my experience, they are a little difficult to work with and caused some gum tissue trauma. I accidentally got some bleach on my gums and it turned white. That only lasted a couple of hours and then it just felt burnt.

Dental offices can get whitening strips in Professional strength and they aren’t a whole lot more expensive than the ones sold at Target and Walgreen’s. Since they are stronger, you won’t have to use as much to get the teeth whiter. That could save money in the long run. Just check with your dentist to see if they have the Crest White Strips Professional strength or the Tres White by Opalescence(my favorite).

While whitening your teeth, it’s very important to remember that your teeth are more sensitive and can pick up stains a lot faster. The bleach actually dries out your teeth and causes them to be more porous so you will want to stay away from dark foods and drinks. Wine, blackberries, blueberries, soda, coffee, tea, etc. These could actually stain your teeth and cancel out the whitening effect.

So if you want whiter teeth but can’t afford the professional dental trays: Give the teeth bleaching strips a try. They are an inexpensive beauty secret that will do wonders for your smile.

Mineral Makeup or Esca Makeup, as it’s also known, is a loose mineral cosmetic that is becoming extremely popular. It’s actually been around for years but it’s gaining a lot of exposure now due to SheerCover and all the other infomercials hitting the airwaves.

Esca makeup derives it’s name from the scientific process that develops it(Electron Spectroscopy for Chemical Analysis). I don’t really know what that means, but I can say I’ve just started using mineral makeup and really like it.

I noticed a co-worker’s makeup the other day and couldn’t believe how smooth and pretty her complexion looked. She had great coverage. You couldn’t see any imperfections or age spots so I knew I had to try some of this esca makeup myself.

It’s a very natural makeup that doesn’t contain the regular irritants such as: preservatives, fragrances, dyes, etc. It’s considered a pure, natural makeup that’s easy on even the most sensitive skin.

It also contains titanium dioxide and zinc oxide which produce a soothing effect when applied on the skin because of their anti-inflammatory properties. This is extremely beneficial if you have rosacea or acne. Mineral Makeup is also so popular because it’s not like wearing a heavy foundation. You can even sleep in this makeup without worrying about it clogging your pores.

Esca makeup is so gentle that you can wear it after laser and chemical peel treatments that leave your skin extremely raw and sensitive. And if that’s not great enough, it contains Sunscreen.

Works for Us!

Sheer Cover® 30–Day Intro Kit – Only $29.95

So you think you want “Bette Davis Eyes”?

What exactly is that song about? We found this tribute video and thought it might be fun to go back and see what all the rage was about. She does have beautiful big eyes!

We may not be able to change what our parents gave us, but we can improve what we look like and strive for longer lashes and movie star eyes!

I have no make-up on!

I had been at the beach all day.

My eyelashes are definitely longer and thicker!