My Make-Up Style

Winter has a way of making me a bit lazy. As I was making my face for a charity banquet, I noticed how I have been negligent about cleaning my cosmetic drawer. Spring is a great time to purge products that you have had for over a year. The biggest offenders are …

Don't forget to clean up your Cosmetic drawers or bags!

• mascara
• lip gloss
• cream eye shadow
• cream blush
• cream or liquid foundation

Let’s start with mascara, our eyes are too important to not heed the warning. Bacteria begin to form and grow inside the product and it is just not safe to keep. Most experts recommend that you toss the old one every three months. I will be the first to admit, that I am not always extremely timely. I am quite careful though only pushing the boundaries to about four months. Just make a little note of your purchase or opening date and pop it into your make-up bag or drawer to keep on track.

Lip gloss is the second worst offender. (Especially the pots that you put your finger in rather than a wand container.) These should be purged every six months. Lipsticks are typically a bit more resilient since they are solid; they seem to resist bacterial growth but still I like to toss mine if they are a year old.

Cream shadows, cream blush and liquid foundation all depend on your habits. Are your hands washed and clean when you apply? Or do you carry them with you and touch up on the run? Think about your habits and don’t allow your skin to become victim to your exposure.

The only thing that really is not affected and has a very long shelf life is usually your powders, pressed blush and eye shadows, with an exception if they have a dirty cakey build up in areas on them. That is a sign you are being negligent about your applicators. Your foundation, dirt and body oils have permeated the product and it is time to toss! Wash those brushes! Clean brushes create a flawless finish. Use a mild soapy solution to clean out your bag or make-up drawer wiping all containers and compartments.

Lastly, if you have been sick, after you recover take the time to once again, wash up. I do not advocate using harsh chemicals. Frankly, once of the best things you can use for any cleaning anything is a vinegar and water solution. Make a commitment today to begin your spring cleaning regardless of your busy life, starting with, caring for you!

I continue to read about the benefits of sleeping seven to eight hours per night. I am convinced my poor sleeping habits have affected all aspects of my health. It is so nice to finally begin reading what I have been feeling for so long, a justification of sorts.  This has been a lifelong health issue for me.

I began sleeping with an eye pillow about six months ago; Brookstone sells a really nice one that is navy blue. I love it because I can actually open my eyes and stare into darkness if I want. I believe it has helped me stay asleep for longer periods of time.

However, several months ago I sat up in bed, wide awake listening to my husband snore and thought about ear plugs. I have them because I wear them on planes, in concerts etc. so I put them into my ears to muffle the vibratory clatter. I have been wearing them since!
I am sleeping better than I can ever remember. Although still not perfect, I am astounded at how sensitive I am to noise and even light. Now, I still get up at least once a night, but I feel groggy and I stumble to the bathroom and when I get back into bed, I drop off to sleep usually with little effort.

I used to get up minimally three times a night; as often as six trips to the bathroom and I would be wide awake struggling to try to calm myself back to sleep. I have done so many forms of relaxation to try to create a better night sleep for myself and although I am sure they have benefited me, this has been such a simple solution.

Now that I am actually sleeping, waking me up may be hazardous to your health! I never realized I could be so unbelievably cranky if I am disturbed. Hey, I am not making any excuses, I am finally sleeping and it really feels good.

Sweet dreams!

I look forward utilizing this forum as a way we can share opinions on current trends, answer your specific questions, discuss health and wellness solutions. I encourage your contributions, of course, although I respect free speech, I will remove inappropriate comments. I ask that your responses are respectful and I thank-you in advance for your time in sharing your thoughts.

Teresa Svedman