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Aloe Vera Recipes for Your Skin and Hair
As popularly known, aloe vera is irreplaceable for skin and hair care. It has been considered an everlasting plant with a plethora of uses since the ancient times. The leaves of this wonder plant contain useful ferments, essential oils, vitamins, and more than 20 types of amino acids that’s vital for treating inflammations and killing bacteria.
Very frequently, aloe vera gel is among the main ingredients of many cosmetic products here in Singapore. The reason why manufacturers include this mighty ingredient is that aloe safely and effectively gets rid of toxins and takes care of the skin, preventing breakouts and early signs of aging. Such products effectively clean and revitalize the skin making them smooth, soft, and youthful.
As for the hair, aloe is known to contribute to its healthier and faster growth. When looking for a hair care product, make sure to look for aloe vera as one of its ingredients. However, if you want to keep everything organic and ensure full potency of the aloe gel, you can make your own aloe skin and hair care masks at home.
Aloe Vera Face Masks
When preparing a face mask, the goal is to put together ingredients that will perfect—or at least enhance—the condition of our skin. So, here are some DIY aloe masks for different skin types and skin problems.
• For Oily Skin
In Singapore, most people have oily skin due to the hot and humid weather. A good skin care product for those with this skin type is something that’s revitalizing and oil controlling. An alternative to drinking aloe vera from Singapore is to DIY your masks with aloe. To create a mask that combats oiliness, whip together one egg white, two tablespoons of aloe gel, and a teaspoon of lemon juice. Apply the mixture to the entire face and wait until it completely dries out. When the first layer has dried out, apply another layer and one more afterwards. After about 20 minutes, rinse with water and put on your moisturizer. The lemon juice helps suck out excess oil in the face, while the aloe gel makes sure that the skin maintains its healthy level of moisture.
• For Normal Skin
For those who are blessed with normal skin, you only need to preserve the balance of moisture in your skin. For your face mask, mix together a teaspoon of aloe gel, sour cream, and egg yolk in a bowl. Apply it the same way as the previous mask.
• For Dry Skin
Dry skin needs some extra TLC to ensure that wrinkles are kept at bay. Mix a teaspoon of aloe vera gel in honey, oatmeal, and hot water. Only apply one layer of the mixture and let it sit on the face for 20 minutes before rinsing off.
• For Skin Revitalization
If you think your skin looks dull and tired, you could use a bit of skin refreshment to bring back the glow to your face. Apply a mixture of honey and aloe vera gel to your face and let it sit for 30 minutes. Rinse with warm water, towel dry, and then put on moisturizer. You can also try mashing an apricot or avocado and mixing it with a tablespoon of aloe juice and olive oil. Apply the same way as the honey-aloe mask, and don’t forget to moisturize afterwards.
• For Fighting Wrinkles
Fight wrinkles by amping up the potency of any oily face cream by mixing a tablespoon of it with aloe gel and wheat germ oil or almond oil. Steam your face for 10 minutes before applying the mixture with circular massaging motion for 15 minutes. Afterwards, remove the mask with a cotton swab and apply a layer of whipped egg with a pinch of salt to the face. Leave the egg mask for 10 more minutes before removing with a cotton swab dampened in the infusion of St. John’s wort and sage.
Aloe Vera Hair Masks
Just like for the skin, different hair masks can be created with aloe gel, depending on the type of hair problem you want to fix. Here are a few aloe vera hair care recipes to try.
• For Getting Rid of Dandruff
Mix two tablespoons of aloe gel and lemon juice with two tablespoons of castor oil and honey. Apply this mixture to your scalp and massage it in thoroughly. Wrap your hair with shower cap and leave the mask on for 30 to 40 minutes.
• For Weak, Damaged Hair
For an overnight hair strengthening mask, prepare aloe gel, honey, jojoba oil, and warm water in equal portions. Mix them all together and apply to the hair from roots to tips. Wrap your hair in a shower cap and let the mask work its wonders overnight.
• For Oily Hair
To combat excessive oiliness of your hair, create a hair mask that’s made with aloe gel, lemon juice, and honey or egg yolk. As mentioned, the acidity of lemon juice helps fight excess oil. And besides controlling oil, the mask helps regain your hair’s elasticity, strengthening every strand and keeping it healthy. Work the mask into your scalp and leave it on for 20 to 30 minutes. Do this twice a week to keep oiliness at bay.
• For Stimulating Hair Growth
Mix your aloe gel with castor oil, kefir, egg yolk, and five drops of Vitamins B1 and B6. Apply this rich mixture to your roots and wait for about 20 minutes before washing your hair. Do this two to three times a week and you’ll start noticing your hair grows much faster than it usually does.
These homemade aloe vera Singapore skin and hair care recipes are all natural, so don’t be afraid to try out any of them. They can all help restore, revitalize, and enhance the condition of your hair and skin without the harsh chemicals and in the most natural way possible.
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How to Deal with Post-Meal Belly Bloat
Remember that feeling of finishing a sumptuous meal? You feel happy and satisfied never mind what will happen after. You won’t feel anything except joy for few hours but when you face the mirror, you will come to regret eating that sumptuous meal. You are suffering from post-food belly bloat. Many Singaporeans hates this. It is true that being bloated sucks.
Bloating can affect you in many ways. For example, it can ruin a special occasion because you are wearing something that you do not like but for the sake of hiding the bloat, you wear something else. It will annoy you and make you uncomfortable because you know you do not look your best.
How you wish to puff it the instant you recognize it but that is not that easy. The good news is that there are certain hacks that you can do to minimize that annoying and unpleasant post-food belly bloat. Here are some:
- Do not overeat. The basic thing that you have to keep in mind is that you will not bloat if you do not overeat. If you are conscious about your belly bloat then eat in moderation. Remember that eating more will make you look more bloated. If you already feel full, do not force yourself to finish the plate. If you want to finish everything on your plate, best trick is to eat and chew slow. When you eat fast, there is a tendency that you swallow more air that will result to more gas retention.
- Decrease your portion. Another thing to consider is decreasing your portion. When things are very delicious, you tend to put everything on your plate. That is not the right thing to do. The temptation is always there. You have to be steady and keep calm. You will eat up everything at once but where is the fun? Aside from consuming more gas, you are depriving yourself of having a good time. A good food takes time – about 30 minutes.
- Skip the salt. Salt gives additional flavour. No wonder it makes everything extra delicious but you have to skip it. Aside from the plethora of health issues it carry, it can also encourage water retention. Water retention will surely make you feel bloated.
- Enlist friendly bacteria. You need loads of friendly bacteria. If you can buy probiotic yoghurt, buy it and consume it every morning. Good bacteria is helpful because it can facilitate movement of food in your stomach which can curb bloating. If you do not like yoghurt, you can ask your doctor for other alternatives.
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On Set Bedtime Routine: Grown-ups Should Also Observe It
Sleep is a very important aspect in one’s growth and development. It is your body’s way of recuperating and restoring the energy needed for the next day’s use therefore it should not be ignored no matter what. Many Singaporeans think that only kids need sleeping and so adults set a bedtime routine. Parents enforce a strict bedtime routine for the children.
When the night falls, children already know the drill – sleep at around 8 or 9PM, lights out and no gadgets. Children have no choice but to follow the set bedtime routine. Unfortunately, it is an entirely different scenario for adults. Adults think that they are above the routine – no set sleeping time and continuous scrolling on social media not to mention Netflix addiction and unplanned pub hopping.
When you are an adult, there are many things that you should do – work related or not, and before you know it, it is already 3AM. By this time, you are already panicking because you have work at 9AM. How much sleep will you get? Then you resort to frantically counting the sheep over your mind in the hopes that you will sleep soon. Sometimes you even curse yourself for getting distracted.
If this is a problem, you have to train yourself maintaining the same bedtime as well as waking time every day. It gives adults a good chance of accomplishing quality and revitalizing sleep. How can you set a bedtime routine? Well, you have to know the basics first.
For sure you heard about circadian rhythm (or often referred as body clock). This is the body’s natural cycle that efficiently regulate all physiological processes. Sleep is mainly controlled by circadian rhythm. There are four stages of your sleep cycle. Stages 1 and 2 are the lightest stage (you can easily be awaken), Stage 3 is deeper (you are now hard to wake) and Stage 4 is called Rapid Eye Movement where you dream. Fewer sleeping time will lead to sleep deprivation.
It is time that you know the benefits of set bedtime routine. For one it can improve emotional wellbeing plus it can enhance cognitive function. If you slept well, it can in fact have a positive impact on your relationships. When you lack sleep, notice that you are not your normal self because you tend to experience poor mood, low energy and surge irritability leading to poor performance or productivity.
Now, how will you set your bedtime routine? It is not like you are going to ask your parents to enforce it to you once again. You are a grown person so you have the power to change your life. The first thing that you can do is to set a night time alarm. It will let you know when your body will get ready for sleep.
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A Guide to Finding a Reliable Electrician
There’s really nothing wrong with DIY projects, except when it comes to your home’s electrical system. Handling electricity can be dangerous. Apart from the risk of getting electrocuted, the slightest wiring glitch can increase the risk of starting a fire. To ensure your and your family’s safety, hire a professional and reliable electrician services to take care of your electrical works.
1. License
Anyone can claim they are an electrician, but not all have the license to prove it. Obtaining a license takes time, proper training, and dedication. The license proves that an electrician takes his career seriously and will take the job given to them critically. An unlicensed electrician may come cheaper, but they are not bonded, insured, and certified. When looking for a professional to do your electrical works at home, ask to see a proof of their licensure.
2. Insurance
Professional electricians are required to have workers’ compensation coverage and liability insurance. It is important that an electrician servicing contractor in Singapore has liability insurance to serve as your protection in case of an accident that may happen while the job is going on. Another insurance-related matter to check is whether the electrician is bonded. This means you will be reimbursed for any damage or loss of property during the completion of the task. Hiring an electrician with no insurance will leave you and your properties at risk.
3. Experience
Another important thing to consider is an electrician’s experience. When looking for an electrician in Singapore, take the time to know more about their background. Ask to see evidence of previous—if possible most recent—jobs that are the same with the task you want them to do. This helps ensure that they have enough experience executing the type of work you require them to carry out. A trustworthy and reliable professional will be more than willing to inform you of their experience and will courteously address your concerns.
4. Specialization
Since electricians master different electrical jobs, it is important to look for one who specializes in the job you need for your home. For example, if you want to install a new fixture wiring or replace your old circuit box, don’t waste your effort—and money—hiring a commercial contractor that wires large buildings.
5. Warranty
A licensed and reputable electrician will stand by their work. Find out whether an electrician has a warranty that provides solution to remedy accidents or damage that may arise shortly after the job is completed. A good electrician ensures that their job is efficient and their client is satisfied with the work before signing off from a job.
6. Recommendations
Start with family, friends, and colleagues that have had electrical works done by an expert. Ask the people you know in your local area if they have a good contractor to recommend. Also, ask if they have dealt with the same electrical issues and who did they call to fix the problem. You can also stop by your local electrical supply and see if they can recommend a licensed electrician in your area.
7. Reviews
Aside from getting other people’s recommendations, look for reviews of a contractor online. Search a contractor online and read customer reviews to find out whether an electrician is both reliable and reputable. Read reviews and testimonials in their website, but most importantly, visit third party websites for honest and unbiased reviews.
8. Pricing
When searching for a reputable electrician in Singapore, consider several contractors and compare their prices. Extra cheap service fees is a red flag of an unreliable service and is often a sign that an electrician is not licensed and insured, while overly expensive pricing isn’t always the best choice to take. For this, make sure to do thorough research. Compare services, and see whether the price is reasonable for their qualifications.
9. Knowledge of Safety Codes
A legitimate electrician in Singapore has mastered the safety codes and procedures set by the government to ensure people’s safety. If you try to research the national safety code, you will know that it is not going to be a light read. A good electrician has fully understood and mastered these codes and is updated of the newest procedures set by the authority. Ensure the safety of your property by hiring only a knowledgeable and educated contractor.
10. Accurate and Detail-Oriented
Because of highly-technical nature of electrical works, an electrician should never take second guesses when dealing with electrical scenarios. A professional should be fully aware that accuracy is a critical factor in the job, because their lives and their customer’s safety are at stake when they commit errors.
11. Reliable and Congenial
A seasoned electrician services provider knows very much that a professional ethic and amiable attitude will gain him more customers. A professional electrician also knows that earning good reputation is also about building friendly relationship with their clients. Since they work with different types of people, the ability to deal with different personalities is an important aspect of a good electrician.
Electricity problems cannot always be anticipated. That’s why it’s always recommended to know an expert before you even experience complex troubles with your electrical system.
Choosing a licensed professional also means that you are ensuring your property’s safety. If you want to protect your property and ensure your and your family’s safety, as well as the safety of all the people residing in your property, every point stated above is essential to your success.
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Diet During Cancer Treatment
Treatments for breast cancer, such as radiotherapy and chemotherapy, can cause a range of side effects, and some of which can affect your appetite. You may not have the desire to eat, but it’s critical to have enough calories and nutrients in your body to reduce treatment problems, boost immune system and help minimize weakening side effects such as fatigue. If you have not yet gone for one, we recommend a cancer check with Harley Street oncologist in Singapore to ensure that all is clear. Here are some important points to keep in mind that will help manage the side effects of your treatment better.
Diet after Surgery
Most cancer patients in Singapore reported that they feel ready to eat again after their surgery, and notice that their appetite increases each day. To gain back the energy and promote healing of tissues, try to balance a healthy diet with foods you enjoy eating. Think of easy-to-eat foods that your body can manage to digest without much effort. A bowl of cereal with your choice of fresh fruits is quick and healthy and can contain one-third of your vitamin requirement for the day.
Even if your appetite is low, try not to miss a meal and get into a pattern of eating. Even if your meal is just avocados on toast, it will still provide energy and get you eating on time.
Side Effects of Chemotherapy
The side effects of chemotherapy vary from patient to patient. Some may not experience change in appetite, while others may experience a change in their desire to eat, although it’s very common to find your appetite fluctuating during the entire cycle of the treatment.
Changes in Appetite
Here are some tips to help you manage your unstable appetite:
• Have six small meals a day instead of three big meals
• Drink smoothies, fresh fruit juice or milkshakes if you don’t feel like taking solid food
• Avoid drinking liquids before and during meals as this decreases your appetite
• Do something active, such as a short walk, before a meal to increase your appetite.
There are also some cancer patients in Singapore who find themselves eating more due to the drugs given during the treatment.
• Go for low-fat drinks and foods
• Eat more fresh fruits and vegetables, instead of meat
• Be aware of the sugar content of “diet” foods.
Feeling Nauseous
Taking anti-sickness medicine can help ease nausea and vomiting. If you feel nauseous every after treatment, bring this up to your oncology team to find a suitable prescription drug for you.
However, as much as possible, try to manage your nausea the natural way. Drink water more frequently; it’s much better to drink in small sips than drinking large amounts in one go. For the food, go for small, frequent meals rather than large meals at once. If you still feel nauseous, ask your specialist if you can take herbal teas. Teas such as ginger and mint tea can help settle an upset stomach.
Change in Taste
Your sense of taste can change because of the therapy, making food taste less appealing. Make use of herbs and spices or go for strongly flavoured dishes to regain your taste buds. Try a variety of flavours and food to find which ones you like best.
If possible, refrain from using metal spoon and fork. There are some cancer treatments that cause a metal-like taste in the mouth. Use plastic utensils and glass plates, instead.
Sore Mouth
Another side effect of chemotherapy is sore or dry mouth, making it more difficult to take in food. To ease the discomfort, try the following:
• Use straw
• Gently floss your teeth and use a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean your teeth
• Soothe your gums and lips with ice cubes
• Go for soft or quid food, like stews and soups
• Avoid salty, spicy or acidic foods
Diarrhea
Occasionally, chemotherapy causes diarrhea. If this happens, try these:
• Reduce intake of fiber-rich food (can be avoided by peeling vegetables and fruits, so that it’s still rich in vitamins, minus the fiber)
• Drink plenty of water
• Control your portions of fruits and vegetables, especially those rich in fiber.
Go to a cancer center if your diarrhea doesn’t subside. Your oncologist can prescribe you with medications if needed.
Constipation
Eating less, doing less activities and taking medications can cause constipation. Your specialist can provide you with laxatives to manage your bowel movement. Also, it helps to eat fiber-rich foods, such as whole wheat bread, cereals, dried fruits, beans and oats, paired with plenty of healthy fluid, such as teas and fresh fruit juice. Along with healthy food, regular light exercises help boost your metabolism.
Food Safety
Since breast cancer treatments tend to weaken the immune system, you need to be careful with the food you take to avoid food-borne illnesses. Talk to your specialist how to safely handle, prepare and store food, as well as ask when you’ll be able to eat certain foods again.
• Keep cross-contamination by separating raw food, fruits and vegetables and cooked food
• Cook the food well by using a food thermometer to accurately check its internal temperature
• Refrigerate or freeze food within two hours of buying it
• Wash fruits and vegetables well before consuming them and clean the top of canned goods before opening them
• Avoid buffets as the food are usually displayed for long hours and may have come in contact with many diners.
The food you eat is crucial in ensuring your health when under treatment. As some breast cancer treatments can take a toll on your health, you want to stay healthy and provide your body with much needed nutrients to stay healthy and help fight cancer. Go to a cancer center and talk to an oncologist for some advices on the right food to take.
