About Soap

You can decrease the back stress of leaning or bending down while grooming your dog by using raised bathtubs and grooming tables. An old dinning table that is no longer used or even a piece of plywood which is attached to a sturdy surface can serve well for a makeshift grooming table, however, you should take care to use a non-skid surface for the dog to stand upon. Dogs are more confident when they have a sure footing. You will be able to find rubber backed mats or rubber runners, which is sold by the yard and cut, to size at your local hardware stores.

You should also consider a professional quality dryer such as the Double K Airmax when you need to blow-dry your pet. Dogs with a double coat, such as Bernese Mountain Dogs can take up to six hours to be dried using a human blow dryer that can also cause problems with burning the dog, if not used carefully. The use of a professional quality dryer will cut down on a great deal of drying time. If you find that a human dryer is able to blow dry your pet in a reasonable amount of time, you may want to consider the purchase of a dog dryer which is hand held, such as the Crazy Dog dryer, which offers the ability to minimize or even eliminate the risk of burns to your dog.

You might want to consider the use of a self-serve dog wash, if you determine that it is not possible or infeasible to purchase expensive dog grooming supplies such as raised tubs and professional dog dryers for the use in grooming your own dog. Since you may have a lack of available space, or your dogs personal needs call for infrequent bathing of the animal. A self-serve dog wash normally offers the use of such tools and at a much lower price that paying a professional dog groomer to groom your dog. Although, one of the best features of a self-serve dog wash is that you do not have to clean up the mess.

On occasion, you may have to pluck ear hairs from your pet you should consult with a professional groomer or your veterinarian for the instructions of doing this properly and safely. Keep in mind that the use of ear powder will aid you in making the process quick and easy by giving you the added gripping power while working on the slipperier hair of a dog?s ears.

You may also want to consider having a professional dog groomer to clean your dog for you if you are not able to find the time to bathe the dog yourself, since to be tolerable, a dog must be clean and healthy.

You can safely add a couple of drops of pine oil or a little Dawn dish soap to your dog?s shampoo to kill adult fleas, however you should take care not to get the solution in the dog?s nose or eyes.

You should take the time to research your dog?s breed and coat type when finding a routine of coat care for your pet, as there may be the need for specific provisions for your particular breed of dog. These requirements will give you the knowledge and ability to care for your pet?s coat while keeping it clean and in its best healthy condition. For instance, to give the proper care to a Komondor, they require an attention especially for separating forming cords on the coat. While grooming the GSD, one favorite tool for frequent use is the shedding rake.

Warnings

Although there are exceptions to be made for differences between many individuals, it is a myth that the pH difference between human skin and the skin of a dog are such a consideration. The pet shampoo industry thrives on this myth. However, you can safely use human shampoo on your dog, although it is imperative to remember that anything you put on your dog?s coat he is likely to ingest, even in small quantities. In addition, it is wise to acknowledge that any product, which is too harsh for your hair, is more than likely to harsh for your pet?s hair as well. Bear in mind that like humans, a dog is just as likely to develop an allergy to shampoo ingredients, so you should keep a good eye on your pet so you may be able to recognize any showing of negative or allergic reactions of either pet or human shampoo.

While bathing your pet, you should do your best not to get shampoo in your dog?s eyes or nose, as this can seriously irritate them. You may also choose to use a baby shampoo while washing your dog?s face and head. The proper way to apply shampoo, is to pour it into your hand, then rub your hands together, then apply to your pets wet hair, rather than pouring straight from the shampoo bottle. Doing so will aid you in the control of shampooing the areas that receive shampoo and the areas that do not. Be especially careful while rinsing your dog, so that soap and suds do not enter your dogs eyes or nose, you can also gently squeeze the dogs ears shut so that water does not enter its ears while you work around those areas. You may want to consider the use of a good quality baby shampoo that is diluted 4 to 1 with warm water, remembering to add water first and the shampoo, as this solution can be used all over your pet while it will rinse away much cleaner than other types of human shampoo. Doing so will bypass the problem of burning your dogs eyes and nose.

When you shampoo your pet, you are cleaning the whole dog and not just parts of it, so if you have a problem with touching certain areas of your dog, you will have to just get over it, as you are doing your pet a great injustice by not washing the dog thoroughly. On the other hand, since the genital area of a dog is more sensitive than that of a human, you should be especially careful not to use medicated shampoos or hot water while cleaning your pet?s genital area.

Do not overdo your pets bathing ritual as bathing to often can cause problems of drying out the skin while eliminating its natural oils. Remember that for some dogs, a weekly bath is fine, but for other dogs, this is not acceptable. However if you do live in a city where there are filthy streets it may be in your pets best interest to be bathed weekly, with a solution of one part shampoo and ten parts water. You may also want to consider the use of waterless shampoos, as they are the ideal for the quick and easy clean up of butt and foot areas. While using a waterless shampoo, you will directly spot spray and then use a damp sponge to sponge off the waterless shampoo. There is also available soap free shampoos that are diluted and therefore less irritating the use of regular shampoos, these come in quite handy when you are concerned for maintaining a healthy coat and skin while bathing your pet frequently. You may find these types of products by doing an online search as well as in many pet supply stores.

You should also bear in mind that it is a natural instinct for many dogs to automatically, pull away their back leg when it is lifted. The animal is not being disobedient, they are following their instincts and no opposing you when they do this, therefore you should not become irritated with your dog while bathing him, and never punish it while bathing. Instead, it is best for you to struggle through this phase of bathing as best you can and then praise your pet when it is being still while having a bath. In addition, if you own a large or medium size dog, you may be able to clip the nails of their hind feet without having to lift their foot.

Since water can easily cause serious problems for your dog?s ears, it is best to avoid getting water in them. However, if water does get into their ears, you can safely use a cotton ball or cotton pad to gently pat the inside of your dogs ears, however under no circumstance should you ever attempt to use Q-tips in your dog?s ears as they can possibly cause damage as well. If you do observe that your pet begins to scratch their ears soon after being bathed, you may want to consider a visit to the vet so they can remove any irritating water.

Moreover, remember, even if it may seem convenient, never, ever use human toothpaste to brush dog?s teeth as the animal may swallow the toothpaste and then get sick. Ask your veterinarian about the use of veterinary toothpaste for the best possible results.

ProudPup.com - Great deals on new and used dog supplies and accessories, training equipment, books, doggie health tips and more! Did you know that dogs have a genetic lifespan of 27 years? Find out how you can help your dog live well into it's teens or 20's. Download your copy of the Long Life Dog book by clicking this link: Proud Pup - Dog Supplies Cheap

Copyright 2007 ? Ken Mathie. Editor PMCezine…
You are free to reproduce this article as long as no changes are made, the author's name is retained and the link to our site URL remains active.

When you have a new baby, you soon discover that to get your baby sleep through the night can be an overwhelming task. As it always happens when overwhelming tasks are involved, the solution is based upon simple actions that will make a slight difference until you have a marked change in what is happening: these are known as baby sleep patterns. We are going to focus in a special kind of these actions that can help your baby to find some comfort in her sleeping environment. Of course this will help your own sleep too.

Noise Baby Sleep Patterns

Well, the truth is that even in a noisy environment is possible to give your baby some comfort and finally help her to sleep. When noise is having a rhythm, you have no longer a noise: you have a repeated pattern you can be accustomed to. Noise patterns are noises that are repetitive and almost monotonous. This will redirect your baby attention and will attenuate the effect of bad environmental noise.

Noise Patterns Can Be Predicted

Try it by yourself: when you ear a repeated noise, this will become familiar. Have you ever had a train trip?

Noise patterns work because being repetitive, they can be predicted, and so you can become accustomed to them. This is the essential process that makes this trick working and gives you a chance to get your baby to sleep through the night.

Sources of Noise Patterns

You are lucky: there are already plenty of noise pattern sources around you in your house. You could experiment with fans, vacuum cleaners, air conditioners, dryers, &amp#8230 Almost every electrical equipment in an operating status can do the job.

There are also non electrical solutions: an old clock with a ticking second hand or running water can be good as well. Music is also a kind of noise pattern (remember? Rhythm). Music with a gentle rhythm is a sensible choice for this kind of patterns.

Recording The Baby Sleep Patterns

If you find a pattern is working, you can record it in a tape and continuous play it when necessary. This can be applied in a myriad of variations: recording your baby&amp#8217s favourite lullaby can do the trick. You can also record mom and dad soft voices and play them to your baby.

You can find help even in your personal computer if you dare mix a mom and dad&amp#8217s voices with a surrounding noise pattern (a gentle rhythm) and some soft music. You&amp#8217ll have a sure winner.

Learn About The Patterns

Of course there is no need to say that you have to keep track of the patterns you are trying and what you are getting back. Keep trying what worked last until it continues to work.

If you had a winning calming experience (e.g. did you try driving and it worked?) just try to extract the corresponding noise and simulate it some way (I did this with car noise and hade much success).

When Noise Patterns Don&amp#8217t Work

Every technique has its flaws and this one isn&amp#8217t different. The point is: why isn&amp#8217t working?

The first cause is that the disturbing external noise is disturbing too much. In this case you can integrate your noise pattern with support. Swing your baby and keep her near your chest. This could give the right start for this strategy to work.

The second cause is that simply your baby doesn&amp#8217t like this noise pattern. You can try, of course, with an alternative noise pattern, especially one with a completely different rhythm.

Keep attention to what is not working and if your baby feels really disturbed by noise but no noise pattern seems to be able to give some relief, probably you are in the third option: some other underlying issue is ongoing and my suggestion is to see if some other basic need is uncovered (i.e. there is an underlying discomfort which is not satisfied): feed your baby, change the diaper, check the temperature and restart with a noise pattern strategy.

Why This Works

Your newborn primary environment need is about feeling secure she is new to this world and has to find a new balance she has to learn a lot of things and the encoded way to do this is through patterns noise patterns are just part of this are giving this.

Then?

Your path to getting your baby sleep through the night requires making your baby comfortable in with her environment and her basic needs. Period. Work with this purpose in mind and you&amp#8217ll succeed soon.

But a comfortable environment is just part of the whole story. Your newborn life is so embedded with all the little things surrounding her that a little change in your behaviour can easily change her quality of life.

Comfort is the big keyword here and there are many other ways to make your baby feel that way. The primary solution on achieving this and getting your sleep back is by focusing on developing a baby sleep routine. Noise patterns are just a way to leverage that.

Getting More

Baby sleep routines are what will makes the difference between having your baby sleep through the night and another sleepless day. At the same time, they&amp#8217re probably the source of your major error in dealing with your newborn sleep.

A nice starting point to get started the right way is the Baby Sleep Special Report where you can see how baby sleep patterns will create or destroy your own sleep you can get for free at my website.

Get it and get started.

If you want more resources, info on baby sleep patterns and tips on how to get your baby sleep through the night and get your sleep back, check Mark Tern’s Baby Sleep Website:
click here ===> http://baby-sleep-tips.thesolution2.com

Other than the kitchen, the bathroom is the most used room in the house. But unlike the kitchen, a well-designed, decorated, and accessorized bathroom is more than just a place for personal hygiene. With creative bathroom decorating ideas you can turn your bathroom into your own personal spa-like retreat where you can escape from the world, relax and rejuvenate yourself.

There are two main considerations for decorating a bathroom. First, if you're in an older home remodeling bathroom ideas are more challenging because older homes typically have much smaller bathrooms then homes built over the last 20 years. Still, decorating a small bathroom can often be easier because small subtle changes can have a much larger visual impact. The second consideration is the amount of money you're willing to spend.

The Details in the Budget

Whether your bathroom is large or small one thing is certain, you're going to have to spend money if you want an updated bathroom. How much money you need to spend depends to a certain extent on the size of your bathroom and how much updating you feel you need to do to give the look and feel you desire.

If you only have a couple hundred dollars to spend then generally you'll be limited to mostly cosmetic changes such as paint, hardware and accessories. Though this may not be much money to spend, don't discount the effect that a new coat of paint, some new hardware on the doors and drawers, and some additional accessories such as an inexpensive prints or new towel racks may have on your bathroom. Often that is all that is necessary to give your bathroom a very fresh and updated look.

If you're willing to spend a little more money, say $300-$600, then your budget could also include things such as shower curtains, rugs, upgraded towels, additional storage units and/or mirrors, and perhaps even additional or upgraded lighting. Throwing a beautiful rug on your bathroom floor, and adding storage units and unique mirrors can definitely change the look and feel of your bathroom. And since we all judge the quality of a hotel by the quality of their bath towels, having those plush bath towels in your own bathroom certainly goes a long way to making your bathroom feel more luxurious. Updated light fixtures can also add that additional touch of elegance that can really set your bathroom off.

Beyond this point, ideas for bathroom remodeling tend to include the more costly aspects of decorating including changing out fixtures, sinks, toilets and bathtubs, and adding additional furniture. If you're somewhat handy you may be able to replace the sink and tub faucets on your own, perhaps to the more currently popular darker oil rubbed looks or polished nickel. Beyond that, replacing sinks, vanities and bathtubs will generally require a contractor and/or plumber. You must be very careful when using a contractor since this is typically where the cost of bathroom remodeling can quickly jump by thousands and thousands of dollars.

A couple of other options available that can offer some bathroom remodeling help include simply resurfacing your bathtub instead of replacing it. Resurfacing is only a one to two day process and can generally be done for around $500 or less. Re-grouting or re-tiling walls is another option that can easily brighten the bathroom for minimal cost.

Finally, one of the newer methods of giving your bathroom an updated look is the installation of acrylic liners over your old bathtub. Your bathtub is measured to ensure a perfect fit, and an acrylic liner is molded and inserted over the old bathtub. This method can even be extended to the shower and walls and can this give your bathtub, shower and walls a totally updated and new look. Acrylic liners can cost anywhere from $700 to well up into the thousands depending how much you want to have done.

Our bathrooms, unlike many other rooms in the home, tend to be very personal to us. It's the first place we go in the morning and the last place we leave at night. We spend a lot of time in our bathrooms, and we want to come away feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. Great bathroom decorating ideas don't necessarily have to be expensive, they just need to provide a bathroom that is warm, inviting and comfortable to be in. A well designed bathroom helps us prepare for the day ahead. Update and Enjoy!

Cindi Collins is a mother, writer, and part time interior designer. If you enjoyed these decorating ideas you can find additional bathroom decorating ideas at Bathroom Remodeling Ideas

Skin disorders are encountered frequently in any areas of health care. Skin-related disorders account for up to 10% of all ambulatory patient visits in this country.

Because the skin mirrors the general condition of the patient, many systemic conditions may be accompanied by dermatologic manifestations.

The psychological stress of illness or various personal and family problems is commonly exhibited outwardly as dermatologic problems.

Proper Skin Care

Some skin problems are markedly aggravated by soap and water, and bathing routines are modified according to the condition.

Denuded skin, whether the area of desquamation is large or small, is excessively prone to damage by chemicals and trauma.

The friction of a towel, if applied with vigor, is sufficient to produce a brisk inflammatory response that causes any existing lesion to flare up and extend.

Given that, the essence of skin care and protection in bathing a patient with skin problems is as follows: a mild, lipid-free soap or soap substitute is used the area is rinsed completely and blotted dry with a soft cloth and deodorant soaps are avoided.

The key here is to be natural as possible when treating and taking care of one's skin.

Here are more tips regarding natural skin care.

Moisturize with Care

Nothing takes the moisture and softness out of skin faster than winter's dry indoor heating and icy, face-chapping winds. Even if you pamper and protect your skin all year long, it needs a little extra attention when the temperatures begin to fall.

As the moisture level in the air drops, the dry air tries to rehydrate itself by borrowing moisture from your skin. When that happens, your body's natural protective barrier, made of water, oils, and a protein called keratin, can get dehydrated to the point where your skin gets taut, wrinkly, cracked, and itchy.

Therefore, if dry skin is your issue, Mother Nature is definitely part of the problem, but she can also be part of the solution. Try some of the nature's natural remedies for skin problems and get positive results.

1. Aloe vera has been known as one of the best skin soother and has been a hot topic since the days of ancient Egypt when the pharaohs used it to help them look their best.

The gel is excellent for treating all kinds of skin problems and keeps them from going from bad to worse. It can also speed up the healing process for itchy, irritated skin.

2. Avocado Oil

Sure, avocados are great on a salad, but did you know that avocado oil has superior powers when it comes to slowing down attacks of dermatitis and eczema, which can be aggravated by dry conditions?

Apply it directly to any potentially itchy, red, or irritated areas.

Oily Skin - For that Drier Look

Scrub up! Washing often with a lot of soap and water can remove oil. It is as simple as that. But the question is: what kind of soap should you use?

Skin experts say it is best to look for one with more detergent and less fatty substances. The heavier the fat, the more you want to avoid it.

Find soaps that are formulated for oily or acne-prone skin.

Exercise Regularly

That healthy glow you get in your cheeks when you exercise means that blood is flushing your skin. The result is denser, thicker, more elastic skin that resists wrinkling.

According to some skin experts, actual facial exercises are probably wrinkle-producing. A good overall exercise program, on the other hand, helps your skin and may even reduce bags under the eyes by reducing the fat cells around the area.

But while you are exercising, remember not to become dehydrated. When your cells lose water, they lose strength - even after the water is replaced.

Exfoliate to Rejuvenate - But Not Too Much

Do you know that the human skin shreds about 5 billion dead skin cells? These dead cells surfacing on your skin make one's complexion dull by blocking the pores and preventing new skin to emerge.

Cleaning them unmasks a radiant and glowing skin through the process of rejuvenation. Does your beauty recipe do this to your skin?

For natural way of taking care of the skin, lay off the loofah. If you are tempted to try a loofah to slough the dry stuff off your skin, it is best not to do so.

Though gentle exfoliation is good, it is too easy to be carried away and remove healthy cells in the process. And too much exfoliation can actually encourage drying. Even a washcloth can be too harsh.

For washing, your hands are the best equipment that you can use.

Caring for the skin with natural ways may not only be beneficial for your skin now but can also bring long-term benefits. These tips are worth a try because they enhance your skin's condition in the most natural way.

Lee Dobbins writes for http://www.herbs-home-remedies.com where you can find out more about natural cures and remedies.

Fragrance verses essentials oils…. Natural verses synthetic… Differences in opinions on these subjects often lead to debates ranging from intriguing to downright brutal. So in the end, which is really the best for soapmaking and other bath &amp body products? Here are some common points and considerations you may not of thought of.

Fragrance Oils

• In general, fragrance oils tend to be more affordable than essential oils.
• There are famous and much beloved scents that can only be found in a fragrance oil. Some fragrances simply cannot be mimicked through essential oils.
• Fragrance oils fall into the FDA's jurisdiction and their “trade secret” law. This means That the manufacturer of the fragrance oil does not have to disclose the ingredients used in making their fragrances. Basically you may never know what in the world is really in a fragrance oil, but they do have guidelines in place to ensure the general safety of the product. (Though one could argue that this guideline may be questionable due to the fact there are many items that are approved by the FDA that create debates in the issue of it's safety- from the arguments over Sodium Laurel Sulfate all the way down to artificial sweeteners!) The ingredients used may range from debates as far as safety is concerned to an outright environmental hazard.
• For soapmakers, especially one that may not have a lot of experience, sometimes fragrance oils can be a bit more aggravating than an essential oil during the soapmaking process. Certain fragrances can cause what soapmakers know as “seizing”. Most soapmakers know this term, and we all know this problem can lead to a potential bad day for us! The good news is many experienced soapmakers know tricks of the trade to save our soap batches when this happens, or sometimes prevent it entirely. (Remember that a fragrance from one supplier may behave better than another- it all depends on the source and what they used to create the scent.)
• There are people that are particularly sensitive to fragrance oils and even sometimes just plain allergic to them. However, in fairness, you have to keep in mind that over a hundred different ingredients could be used to create just one fragrance! The truth is that if a product is carefully made and the fragrance oils are carefully measured and added in the recommended amounts, the amount of fragrance actually used is generally unlikely to cause a reaction. I'm not sure it would be fair be to ban all fragrances if you have bad luck with one particular scent or product. Now that does not mean there aren't people out there that are genuinely that sensitive- it does happen. I'm just saying that it actually happens very rarely.

Essential Oils

• In general, essential oils tend to put a dent in your wallet compared to fragrance oils. There are in fact different grades of essential oils, and as with all the things, the better ones tend to be more expensive. If you find one that is significantly cheaper, chance are it may not be as pure as you think and may be any better than a fragrance oil. Now I am once again speaking in general and am not stating this is always the case. The reasoning is that there are many manufacturers that sell essential oils that do in fact contain a small percentage of synthetic materials as well.
• Even if an essential oil is natural, it doesn't not mean that the means from which it was extracted was. There are several methods for extracting essentials oils, and some choose using chemical solvents in the process for certain essential oils. Many people may not be aware of this, yet they should be. Many oils made in this fashion are still labeled “natural or “pure”, but I suppose it all comes down to what you personally define “pure” as.
• As far as being environmentally friendly, many don't realize that majority of the essentials oils sold in the US, or the materials to make them, come from overseas. In a heated debate I once witnessed, one intuitive person brought up a new point that is absolutely worth considering. The fuel used either by flight or by sea alone very well could very well make up for any advantage that essentials oil have over fragrance oils in terms of being environmentally friendly. Now bear in mind that where ever we buy our essential oils from, more than likely bought it from a larger supplier or wholesale distributor. The product may in fact change hands many times so it's not always possible to know the source.
• Another blow to the theory that going natural is more environmentally friendly, is that hundreds of pounds of plant matter could be used to make a single ounce of essential oil! Certain plants used to create essential oils such as certain types of sandalwood, cedarwood, and rosewood oil are now endangered from the over-harvesting. Such heavy usage of natural resources can create an imbalance in the environment for types of essential oils that are extracted from “non-renewable” resources.
• Essential oils undeniably have been found to carry positive properties from the plant materials they were extracted from. Wisely chosen quality essential oils can greatly increase the desired effects in a topical application such as creams or lotions. However, many debate on this when it comes to the topic of soapmaking. Unless a soap is “rebatched” or “milled”, including through “met and pour” methods, or cooked through a “hot process” method, some believe that the high alkali needed during the soapmaking process actually kills at least a vast majority of any of the positive properties that may have come have from the plant matter the essential oil was extracted from. Then again, the heat from the methods could tear down beneficial antioxidants, vitamins, or essential fatty acids that the base oils in the soapmaking process has brought to the table. Some don't believe either of these to be true and can intelligently argue both of these points to the death.
• There are those that are particularly sensitive to fragrance oils, yet there are people that are sensitive to essential oils as well- often time people that are sensitive to one may be sensitive to another. This does not make either one “bad”. You can't place blame any more than you could place blame due to any other allergy. If you're allergic to cats, you can't blame the cat and certainly you can blame yourself. It just happens. “Leave-on” products that aren't rinsed away, such as lotions and creams, need to be treated especially carefully in terms of essential oils. Too much of a particular oil can have far more irritating results than benefits. For an example, if you make a lotion with large amounts of grapefruit, orange, or any other citrus in the summertime, these citrus oils may enhance your chances of getting scorched by the sun or possibly an even worse reaction from sun exposure. Large amounts of rosemary essential oil or extract in a “leave on” product could cause massive irritation. Some essential oils are even toxic if ingested! You have to get to know your oils- which means lots of homework before welcoming a new ingredient.

Conclusion

There are even many more valid points to each side than I have listed here- there are new ones all the time and the cycle of this debate doesn't look like it's going to end any time soon. It's important to openly review both ends of the spectrum and establish you own opinion by the weight of the importance each point of view carries and not just the simple number of listed pros and cons of each.

Some people simply refuse to use anything with fragrance oils, and some people find products with essential oils to be an overpriced ploy for profit gain. Some recognize the benefits of essential oils and commonly use them in topical leave-on applications, but find them to be a waste when it comes to soapmaking. Then there are some that feel strongly enough that they avoid either one, sometimes simply leaving their products entirely unscented.

As for me , personally, I think everyone is right. I see both ends to this debate as valid, and in a sense I beleive the difference in opinions is a great thing. My theory is this- there are obvious faults to both fragrance and essential oils. If only fragrance oils were used, I think pollution to the environment and our bodies would skyrocket to an all time high and it would be a total shame to cast out the magical scents with countless benefits given to us by mother earth, herself. Yet, at the same time, if only essential oils were used there could be devastating results to the planet from over-harvesting. I also think this would bring a sense of boredom to the bath and body industry as a whole. Even if it is sometimes overlooked because of it's common over-use, certain scents and fragrances really touch people. I think they would miss many of their favorite scents that simply cannot be imitated with all natural essentials oils. Whether it's to enhance a certain mood, is a treat to indulge in and brings a sense of pampering in our hectic lives, or someone just plain likes it, I truly think people actually connect with certain scents. I beleive aromatherapy goes far beyond just premium grade natural essential oils. As a soapmaker, I embrace both at this point, and make my soaps as my passion drives me- without prejudice.

For more articles like this, you can visit this author's website- http://www.chambersessentials.com- our blog for beauty, health, home, and soul…

If you?ve made a batch of soap and been dismayed by the way your soap stinks fragrance wise, here are some reasons why:

1. Using ordinary perfumes or colognes. You need to use fragrances suitable for soap making.

2. Using candle making or craft fragrance. See number 1 above.

3. Using rancid oils.

4. Too much superfatting. Too much added fat won?t make your soap smell nice.

5. Incorrect measuring of ingredients (if using the cold process method). Your soap won?t saponify (crucial to your soap making success) if you haven?t used enough lye or you?ve used too much oil.

6. Using scented oils. See number 1 above.

7. Using flavored oil (eg for lip balm). See number 1 above.

8. If using the rebatched/hand-milled method, using a scented soap for your soap base.

9. Using fresh herbs or flowers if using the cold process method. These ingredients can react badly to lye.

10. Diluted oils that contain a high amount of sodium. Too much sodium in the oils can ruin your batch of soap. These oils cost less than the genuine undiluted oils.

11. Using too much citrus oil. Too much of this acidic oil will react badly with the lye and you?ll end up with curdled soap. I use 35% or less citrus oil.

As you can see from the list above, the most common culprit of horrible smelling soap is the fragrance used. If you use a fragrance that?s not suitable for soap making, you?ll more than likely end up with stinky smelling soap. Before buying any fragrance, make sure it?s suitable for soap making. One of the easiest ways of doing this is to buy from a retail soap making supplier who sells soap making ingredients.

So now you know what to do fragrance wise, why not get started on your next batch of soap today?

Jennifer Christine is a Super Soap Making Enthusiast! Grab your FREE exclusive mini report, Secret Online Soap Making Supplies when you visit http://www.MakeYourOwnSoapToday.com and discover how you can make your own hand made soap today!

Everyone has done it. You back into a pole, rear end a stray shopping cart or drop a heavy object on the trunk lid. The result is an ugly dent or a scraped finish. Turning in small damage claims to your insurance can be costly and if you have gotten an auto body repair estimate, you know that parts and labor can be expensive to pay out of pocket. There is another option though, you can fix it yourself. That's right. Armed with a plunger, a bottle of touch up paint and a few supplies, the average do-it-yourselfer can repair small dents and scratches. Here's how.

Unsightly Dents

If your accident has not broken the finish and has damaged a larger body panel, you may be able to pull the dent out. Dump a bucket of soapy water over the dent and stick your household plunger over the area. The water should help create a good seal and you may be able to pull the panel back into shape. The soap will allow you to slide the plunger down the panel to break the suction.

If your dent is in a small area near a crease in the vehicle, you can place a small block of wood at the tip of the dent and gently tap the wood with a mallet to force the misplaced metal back into its original shape. Tapping gently around the edges of the dent may help pop the metal back into shape. Use care not to break the finish, chipped paint exposes bare metal which will rust.

Scratches, Scrapes and Stone Chips

Most body shops will sell you a bottle of touch up paint. They will also ask you what you are repairing and offer to fix it for a large fee. Kindly decline, and request just a bottle of touch up paint. They will need access to you vehicle to get the manufacturer's paint code. This is most often found in the glove box or the door jam. If your vehicle has been painted a different hue than its original paint color, the auto body technician can use an educated guess to mix your paint to match the rest of the finish closely.

You will need a fine grit sand paper, a bucket of soapy water, some wax and buffing cloths in addition to your bottle of paint. Wash the scraped area well with soapy water, paying special attention to any bugs or tar in the area. Wet your fine grit sand paper and carefully sand the edges of the scrape or stone chip, making sure to keep your sand paper wet. Dry the area well and leave it sit for at least ten minutes to make sure it dries completely. Then, shake the bottle of touch up paint for at least two minutes. Brush on a light coat of paint over the damaged area. You can always apply a second coat after the first coat dries. Allow the paint to cure overnight then use a rubbing compound followed by a coat of wax to protect your finish

Paint repairs fare the best when done on a sunny day with low humidity. If this is not possible in your area, perform the repairs inside a heated building with a dehumidifier running. You can also use heat lamps or a hair dryer on its lowest setting to help cure the paint.

With a few tools and a little know how, you can save yourself some money by repairing small damages yourself.

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Even though all dry skin creams are generally meant to treat dry skin, it would still be better if you consult your doctor before applying different sorts of dry skin creams.

For instance, there are several dry skin creams that are specifically meant to increase moisture levels in your skin. There are also dry skin creams that are formulated to treat dermatitis.

Stay on the safe side and keep our tips in mind the next time you go out to buy dry skin creams.

Don't trust any dry skincare product that's excessively cheap. Products like those are mostly unlicensed and manufactured without the approval of the Food and Drug Administration, or FDA. Without proper approval and licensing, these products may cause several undesirable side effects that could simply aggravate your present skin care problem.

If you're purchasing an over-the-counter or OTC dry skin cream at the recommendation of a friend, don't take her word right away. Consult your physician or dermatologist and have him confirm the safety and effectiveness of the product before using it.

If you already know what caused your dry skin, choose the appropriate dry skin cream to treat it. Excessive exposure to the sun would naturally require you to use a dry skin cream that has appropriate and adequate sun protection. In this case, you need something and SPF higher than 15.

For dry skin that is particularly lacking in smoothness, you'd need a dry skin cream that would exfoliate the ridges in your skin and plump it up.

As for dry skin that lacks moisture, a moisturizing dry skin cream is obviously the best choice for you. And for optimum results, “layer” your products by using the moisturizing cleanser and soap from the same skincare line.

Makeup can be damaging to dry skin so make sure that the cosmetics you're using indicate their compatibility with your skin type.

Dry Skin provides detailed information on Dry Skin, Dry Skin Care, Dry Skin Treatment, Dry Skin Lotion and more. Dry Skin is affiliated with Natural Acne Skin Care.

Who wouldn't want to remain young forever? Who wouldn't want to have supple and vibrant skin even at age seventy? If you don't start taking care of your skin now, you might end up take care of it too late.

Start Early, Start Now!

A lot of people are under the misconception that they should only start focusing on anti aging skin care when they reach their thirties' and forties. That belief is absolutely wrong! The earlier you start taking care of your skin, the better! Whatever you do at a young age will ultimately affect you in old age so taking care of your skin as early as possible will ensure that you still have something to boast of even when you're already a grandmother.

Sun Exposure - People who are children of the sun, beware! Too much exposure to sunlight, and consequently harmful UV rays, are more likely to suffer from bad skin in old age than other people. It's okay to sun bathe once in a while, but don't make a habit out of it.

Exercise - This will only ensure that your skin is healthy and toned, with no excess flesh on your arms, tummy, and legs. Exercise however doesn't have the power of changing your skin structure. That, unfortunately, is your parents' fault.

Cosmetics - Wearing too much make up on your face might clog up skin pores, causing pimples, and later on scarring. The latter will contribute in making you older than you look so try to tone down on the make up and use it only during important occasions.

Menopause - Be aware that the menopausal stage in a woman's life can not only change the person's attitude but her skin type as well. People with normal skins before might now have dry skins simply because they're undergoing menopause.

Pour It On! - We all know that drinking water, at least 8 glasses a day, is generally good for the body. What only few of us are aware is that our skin needs more water than that more particularly, it will have better looking skin if you moisturize it daily as well.

Sleep - When you sleep too little or too late, you'll end up ruining your complexion and sport raccoon-like eyes. Do you want this? Of course not! That's why you need to change your lifestyle and habit. If you don't want people to think you're thirty when you're only twenty, the first thing you should do is regulate sleeping hours.

Tips on Anti Aging Skin Care Products and Treatments

Besides making lifestyle changes, you should also invest in several anti aging skin care products. This will ensure that your youthful skin's there to stay.

Can You Say Antioxidants?

For health conscious individuals, green tea and fruits are the best sources for antioxidants. For beauty conscious individuals, on the other hand, antioxidants are found in specific skin care products only. Antioxidants are especially helpful when it comes to maintaining youthful skin because it gives added protection to our skin's collagen and elastin.

When buying moisturizers for your skin, make sure that it's powerful enough to provide nourishment and care to the deeper skin layers. Stick to one brand as much as possible because changing brands often can have damaging effects on your skin.

Be careful about any skin care product line that has only been recently launched. If the company isn't well-known, don't risk your skin by using it just to save on a few measly bucks. Money can be earned, but damaged skin can never be repaired fully.

The change in seasons can have a negative effect on your skin. Be alert and watch out for these effects because leaving them untreated year after year will cause your skin to age more rapidly than you'd like.

Common Anti-Aging Skin Care Problems

Wrinkles - When certain muscles in our face contract repeatedly, this leads to the formation of skin creases called wrinkles. Wrinkles become deeper over time. It can be removed by surgical treatment or certain lotions. Sagging skin will only make wrinkles look worse than it really is so start giving your skin the care it deserves as early as possible.

Darker Eye Bags - Because skin loses more pigment-containing cells over time, eye bags appear darker than usual.

Eternal youth may be a hopeless dream, but an illusion of it can be achieved simply by taking care of your skin faithfully.

Lee Dobbins writes for http://skincare.health-webzone.com where you can find out more about caring for your skin.

Less is more, keep it simple. Let nature be your muse when decorating your home. Home d?cor inspired by nature is practical, easy, and elegant. It adds freshness to your living environment in a design that is not only decorative but spiritual. Think of the feeling you get when you watch the first spring trees blossom, smell the fresh cut grass in the summer or the moist air after a rainfall. Do you enjoy walking through crunchy leaves in the fall with crisp air flowing all around you? Perhaps you?re best contented with sitting by the fire sipping hot chocolate watching a peaceful snow falling silently through the window. Decorating with nature, is taking these feelings, memories, and moments we share with the seasonal changes and putting them into our home.

Take nature walks when the weather is nice. Gather pine combs, acorns, interesting branches or rocks. These can be displayed on a mantel, shelf, or table. A nice wooden bowl filled with green apples, bright oranges, lemons, ornamental squashes or mini pumpkins can be lovely. You can also fill it with dried flower petals, or nuts in their shells for added richness.

Always keep a few houseplants. Many varieties are easy to care for and rewarding to nurture. Become acquainted with your local plant nursery or garden shop and have an associate recommend plants taking your lighting, climate, and lifestyle needs into consideration. If you have pets or small children in the home make sure plants are kept out of reach and are safe.

Grow herbs inside your home. Many culinary herbs grow well in pots in south or west facing windows. Try growing English lavender or lemon verbena in your bedroom. Not only will they provide a lovely scent, you can snip the ends of these herbs and add them to your bathwater for a luxurious retreat.

Consider growing an outdoor garden. There are many kinds to work with. You could have a garden that attracts butterflies and birds, or you might prefer an edible garden. Even a small flower bed can be rewarding to your home. Consider growing flowers that are recommended as cutting flowers and you can bring them inside and enjoy fresh bouquets all season.

During the spring, when flowering trees are at their best, cut a small branch and bring it into your home. Display in a glass pitcher or large vase filled with water. It won?t last long, but will scent your home wonderfully. This is perfect as a centerpiece when you are entertaining friends and family for a day. Large clear glass containers can be filled part way with water. You can sprinkle flower petals and float some votive candles for an attractive centerpiece in lieu of flowers bouquets.

Consider adding natural fabrics within your home. Egyptian cotton sheets will look and feel refreshing on your bed. Angora or mohair pillows or shams can dress up a bed or a sofa. Linen tablecloths or placements can transform your dinning table. Enjoy silk valences on your windows. The possibilities are endless. Remember bathrooms decorated with fake looking sea shell soaps? Take a contemporary spin on this old idea. Display seashells, bleached sand dollars, or sea glass you collected on a walk by the beach or during a vacation. They will remind you of a happy time when you see them in your bathroom?yet they will look classy.

Pamper yourself with good soap in the bathroom. Try to buy homemade soaps that smell rich with scents of nature, and look equally appealing. Many natural food stores or farmers markets carry such soaps. If you enjoy crafts, consider making your own soap. Good soaps always make good gift ideas. Make sure you leave some in your guest bath, so they will feel indulged during their visit.

Collect interesting stones or pieces of wood during your family vacations or travels. Display them creatively in your home. They will enhance your d?cor and you will have good stories to tell about each. Colors that showcase nature are also the trend when it comes to decorating. Popular reds the color of watermelons or Chinese red inspire confidence, even a good dose of eccentricity. Don?t be afraid to have at least one room that is bold. Red is the color of blood and fire. It represents energy, vitality, and passion. Orange is another popular color. Shades that resemble apricots, pumpkins, or butternut squash work well. Orange demands attention, yet does so in a way that emphasizes warmth, balance, and excitement. Another popular pairing is that of regal chocolate brown (the ?new? black) with a sky or bird?s egg blue. This is especially elegant for bedrooms, studies, or bathrooms.

Finally, your home d?cor should say something about your personality and interests. Its also a place to showcase ethnicity, cultural background, or family heritage. Books and other reading material tell a lot about a person. Display them like a badge. Consider keeping a few books or nice looking magazines (such as gardening magazines) on your coffee table for a decorative touch. All of these can be intermingled with nature as a basis for decorating style. Your home does not need to be overmatched. Current trends are giving way to more creative diversity?a melting pot of styles coming together. Start adding nature to your home today.

Gentry is a stay at home mom, with a passion for writing. For more articles on easy living, visit http://www.genstyleliving.com.

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