Archive for May, 2008

Summer Skin Beauty Essentials

(ARA) –– Summer is around the corner, and that means more time outside in the sun. While we are aware of the dangers associated with sun-bathing, many still long for that sun-kissed glow. So how can you achieve the look of a bronzed beauty this summer without risking the health of your skin? Use the right tools to enhance features and protect skin.

Here are six essentials every woman should keep in her make-up kit this summer to keep skin looking healthy, glowing and gorgeous:

1. Foundation that Offers SPF Protection
Do double duty – hide imperfections and be protected from the sun’s ultraviolet rays. The Body Shop’s Flawless Skin Protecting Foundation with SPF 25 is an innovative cream-to-powder foundation that provides medium to full coverage. A perfect color blend for a healthy-looking, flawless complexion and has a mineral defense shield to protect skin to boot. The unique formula contains Vitamin C to brighten skin and Community Trade marula oil to condition and moisturize.

2. A Bronzing Powder to Mimic that Sun-Kissed Glow
Housed in a retro-style compact, Sun Lustre Bronzer, which is part of The Body Shop’s new limited edition Summer Make-Up Collection, comes in two colors: Bronze Gleam which is a natural sun-kissed bronze and Radiant Blush, a pretty, pink illuminating shade.

3. A Water-Proof Mascara
You never know when the mood might hit to take a spontaneous jump in the pool, and you don’t want your make-up to suffer. Find a mascara that will survive the water, and also coat lashes with long-lasting color, while helping to condition and protect. The Body Shop’s Waterproof Mascara is a great find, and contains Community Trade marula oil.

4. Bright Eyeshadow
Bright, bold, colorful eye shadow helps to enhance the sun-kissed look. The Body Shop’s Summer Shimmer Cubes come in Sea Blue which is a deep ocean blue with a hint of silver; Fiery Red which is an intense, vibrant red with softer pink overtones; Green Meadow, a stunning, bright emerald green; and Golden Sun which offers a rich, warm, golden glow.

5. Sparkly, Sheer Lipstick to Brighten Up Face
Dark, heavy lip color is best worn in winter, for the summer months try a sheer color that still adds some color to your look. The Body Shop Sheer Lip Lustre is a pearlescent lip balms with a hint of sparkle. The Lip Lustres are infused with a “White Tea” fragrance for a deliciously summery scent and available in three different shades: Flush pink is a pretty pink with a hot pink sparkle. Golden Rose is a golden pink with a golden sparkle. Rose Shimmer is a rose shade with multi-colored sparkle.

6. Faking It – Self-Tanners Instead of Sun-Bathing
Because you still desire a deep-tanned look but are wary of exposing your skin to the sun’s harmful UV rays to achieve it, use a self tanning product. The Cocoa Butter Everyday Summer Body Lotion from The Body Shop helps gradually build that even sun-kissed glow. Start by applying to dry and well cleansed skin, and allow to set in before dressing for your night on the town. The Everyday Summer Body Lotion uses Community Trade cocoa butter from Ghana to soften skin and improve elasticity, so you are helping to improve the texture of skin while also adding that ‘fresh from the beach’ glow.

Also, to enhance your look even further, smooth on a Body and Leg Shine to your arms, legs and chest before hitting the beach. It’s a wash-off product that goes on with minimal blending to give you a slimmer, more toned appearance along with fabulous color. One of the key ingredients is Community Trade aloe vera which is known for its soothing and hydrating effects. There are shades available for fair to medium skin tones, as well as medium to dark skin tones.

Then at the end of the day when you return home from the beach, there’s one more essential you don’t want to be without — a tube of The Body Shop’s new Peppermint Purifying Foot Mask. Made with Community Trade Peppermint Essential Oil from the U.K that will leave your feet feeling cool, refreshed and fragranced, and Sesame Oil from Guatemala that moisturizes and protects the skin, the mask will deep cleanse and soothe tired, achy feet that have spent the day running across the hot sand.

To find the Body Shop location nearest you, log on to http://www.TheBodyShop.com   .

Courtesy of ARAcontent


SIDEBAR:About Community Trade

Community Trade is a unique targeted purchasing program created by The Body Shop, sourcing accessories and natural ingredients from disadvantaged communities around the world for more than 20 years. The program is now making a world of difference in more than 20 countries from Bangladesh to Zambia.

In exchange for providing good, quality products at a fair price, participating farmers get a sustained source of income which can be used for improving education or sanitation, building homes and modernizing farming methods

(NewsUSA) – Farmers’ markets are not new, but they are gaining popularity in the United States.

In general, farmers’ markets comprise area farmers convening in one location, indoors or outdoors, to offer the freshest food available, including many canned or bottled goods and handcrafted items such as soap and clothing. Specialty items like jam and honey are also prominent at year-round markets.

The number of farmers’ markets has recently seen a dramatic increase. According to the USDA, the number of farmers’ markets in the U.S. increased almost 20 percent between 1994 and 2006. And in 2000, 19,000 farmers reported selling their produce only at farmers’ markets.

Honey, a year-round mainstay at most markets, is an all-natural food that leaves a small eco-footprint. Purchasing local honey may be beneficial to the environment because it promotes sustainability. Many farmers have hives on their land, in part because bees are responsible for one out of every three bites we consume. If there were a decline in honey bees, we could suffer from a limited supply of oranges, apples, blueberries, cucumbers, strawberries and other farmers’ market staples.

There are more than 300 different types of honey in the United States, each with a unique flavor and color profile influenced by the types of blossoms bees visit when searching for nectar. Floral source, location and climate affect local honey production. Regionally, one can find avocado honey in the west, blueberry honey in the northeast, cotton honey in the south, and one of the country’s favorites, clover, around the globe.

The following recipe, courtesy of the National Honey Board, highlights some of the freshest ingredients available at local farmers’ markets.

 

Yellow Tomato Gazpacho

Serves 6

 

Ingredients:

2 1/2 pounds ripe yellow tomatoes, seeded and chopped

3 cloves garlic, finely chopped

1 medium cucumber, peeled, seeded and chopped

1 red bell pepper, chopped

1 medium yellow bell pepper, chopped

1/4 cup chopped red onion

3 cups tomato juice

1 can (14 1/2 oz.) chicken broth

1/4 cup finely chopped fresh basil

1/4 cup fresh lemon juice

1/4 cup honey

1/4 cup red wine vinegar

2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

Salt and pepper to taste

 

Directions:

In large mixing bowl, combine all ingredients; whisk together until well blended. Season with salt and pepper if desired. Cover and refrigerate one hour or overnight.

(NewsUSA) – With gas prices skyrocketing, everyone is looking for ways to drive less. Based on data from a study released by the American Public Transportation Association (APTA), if you live near a bus stop or rail line, your household drives an average of 4,400 fewer miles each year, compared to those who do not have access to public transportation.

Annually, public transit riders save approximately $6,251 -; more than just pocket change. However, public transportation in your community saves more than money – it also saves the environment.

“Investing in public transportation is one of the more effective ways to combat global climate change and conserve energy,” says William M. Millar, president of the American Public Transportation Association. “People who live near public transportation are more likely to walk, bike or take shorter car rides to get to their jobs and leisure activities.”

Households in communities with access to public transportation drive an average of 12 fewer miles daily, as compared with households who do not live near public transportation -; a 27 percent reduction in mileage and 223 fewer gallons of gas each year. Nationally, public transportation use saves the U.S. the equivalent of 4.2 billion gallons of gasoline annually -; more than 11 million gallons of gasoline per day -; according to the APTA report “Broadening the Connection Between Public Transportation and Energy Conservation.”

Public transit systems such as buses and commuter trains allow more travel in less space and reduce the strain on roads. In addition, public transportation supports efficient land use and reduces carbon emissions in the U.S. by 37 million metric tons each year. To achieve a similar reduction in carbon emissions without using public transportation, the APTA says that every household in New York City, Washington, D.C., Atlanta, Denver and Los Angeles would have to stop all electricity use.

ICF International, a global consulting firm, prepared the report for APTA. For more information about public transportation and to read the complete report, contact APTA by visiting www.publictransportation.org.

(NewsUSA) – Americans love having backyards for planting gardens, holding outdoor parties and giving children a safe place to play outdoors. But some homeowners find themselves with less-than-ideal backyards. Maybe the backyard slopes too much for a picnic table. Maybe the home’s in an arid area, where green grass requires expensive irrigation.

For many homeowners looking to improve their backyards, concrete masonry might provide an unexpected, inexpensive solution.

Concrete can mimic any surface, like stucco, European cobblestone or aged slate, allowing concrete landscaping to blend into any area alongside any style of home.

Concrete masonry proves both stylish and durable. Unlike wooden decks, concrete structures require no upkeep and don’t succumb to termites, mold, rot, weathering or other problems.

One couple replaced their wooden deck with a concrete patio, then found themselves with an insect-free backyard. “With the wood deck, it seemed like mosquitoes would breed and then come up and attack,” said Melissa Werpy, who used concrete masonry to renovate her backyard. “We can now be outside until midnight, and mosquitoes aren’t a problem.”

Concrete masonry can build attractive desert landscapes, too. Some homeowners use water irrigation to grow green grass in arid regions. But irrigating a lawn costs money and wastes water, a precious natural resource.

Homeowners can use segmented, concrete walls to build attractive driveways and terraced landscapes without growing grass. The landscape might not look green, but avoiding irrigation helps desert homeowners save the planet.

In steep yards without flat surfaces for planting herb or flower gardens, setting up tennis nets or supporting tables and chairs, concrete walls can make backyards more enjoyable.

Landscapers can build terraced, concrete brick walls that create level areas for patios, garden planters and extra seats during large parties. Concrete masonry can help control erosion and water drainage, too.

For homeowners with problem backyards, concrete masonry can provide an inexpensive, durable and attractive way to make landscapes both people- and eco-friendly.

For more information about concrete masonry, visit www.ncma.org.

Return the Love To Your Pets

Through donating companies, people can buy their beloved pets upscale products while also helping disabled U.S. veterans.

(NewsUSA) – Whom do we consider heroes? The men and women who serve our country definitely come to mind. These heroes now have their own heroes -; Assistance Dogs specially trained to help those who have been disabled during their tour of duty.

With the motto “Return the Love,” an online pet boutique called TailsandCompany.com is honoring our service men and women with disabilities. The site is offering to provide Assistance Dogs to those in need through America’s VetDogs. It costs over $50,000 to train an Assistance Dog, and TailsandCompany.com wants to challenge Americans to help raise as much as possible.

America’s VetDogs, a new program from the Guide Dog Foundation for the Blind, Inc., provides guide, service and therapy dogs to disabled veterans throughout the country. The organization trains and supplies guide dogs for the visually impaired veteran and service dogs for those who have disabilities other than blindness. America’s VetDogs also offer training on Trekker, an orientation aid that uses GPS technology and digital maps to help blind and visually impaired people navigate unfamiliar territory.

“These dogs have a natural, uncanny way of reducing stress,” says Staff Sergeant Jack Greene of the dogs. “It’s kind of magical.”

Now, by buying fun pet products for their cat or dog at www.tailsandcompany.com, people can donate to America’s VetDogs. TailsandCompany.com is an online shop for pets that features upscale accessories designed to keep pets -; and their owners -; happy and healthy.

The Web site offers special camouflage pet products designed especially for America’s VetDogs. The collection includes beds, mats, bandanas, lounge wear for humans and more -; not to mention the most comprehensive collection of premium pet products assembled on one site. For football fans, collegiate-themed collars and leashes bring a whole new meaning to “tail gates.” For the person with an indoor-outdoor cat or a wandering Westie, a GPS collar and tracker might relieve anxiety caused by a pet running away from home.

Guide Dog organizations always need volunteers. Guide Dog and Therapy Dog organizations appreciate donations, too. Pet lovers can contribute directly to their favorite organizations through a variety of ways including planned giving, stock transfers, matching gifts from corporations, and gifts in honor of a loved one.

(ARA) – The ideal of a “paperless office” is still more fantasy than reality for many of us – whether we’re working for someone else or running our own business. In fact, since the arrival of the Internet and e-mail – the two vehicles that were supposed to make the paperless dream a reality – paper use in offices has actually increased.

In “The Myth of the Paperless Office,” authors Richard Harper of Surrey University and Abigail Sellen of Hewlett-Packard report that offices are now using 40 percent more paper than before the Internet. Even so, large companies do recognize the value of less paper, as evidenced by the millions they pour into document management systems.

Smaller offices, however, have been slower to pursue the dream, in part because the technology to reduce paper has been costly and geared for use by large companies. Yet small offices would seem poised to reap the most benefits from document management. Organization expert Eileen Roth, author of “Organizing for Dummies,” has said 80 percent of the papers people file is things they’ll never use again.

“Time is their most important asset for many small businesses,” says document management expert Jeremy Petty, developer of Dymo File document management software. “Small companies can save time – and dollars – with digital document management. And new software makes it easier than ever for a small office to go digital, even if they don’t have a document management expert or IT specialist on staff.”

If you’re not sure that digital document management will work for you, consider this:

* In 2006, more than 1.5 billion pages of documents were printed, according to industry analysts Lyra Research. Every man, woman and child in the United States uses 700 pounds of paper per year, and the average office worker generates 2 pounds of paper waste every day.

* Paper documents can be hard to find when needed. Software like Dymo File, a document management system specifically designed for use by small offices, converts paper documents to digital files that can be retrieved quickly and efficiently. DymoFile actually allows the user to search for a file with no more than a keyword that might be found in the text of the document.

* Paper documents require storage space. Digital document management eliminates the need for filing cabinets, boxes or any other filing system that takes up physical space in your office. Documents reside in your virtual office, where they create no clutter.

* Disaster recovery for paper documents can be difficult. If your office experiences a fire or flood and your paper documents are destroyed, you’ll have little recourse for recovering them. Digital documents, when backed up properly on a regular basis, allow for much quicker, more reliable recovery. Back up your documents daily to a zip drive that you can take with you at the end of the day, or, better yet, use an online service that allows you to back up your documents to the provider’s server.

* Sharing paper documents with clients or vendors via fax or courier can be costly and cumbersome. Digital documents can be shared and sent via e-mail with a few mouse clicks, for no cost at all.

* It’s difficult to protect the privacy and security of paper documents. “If someone can put their hands on a piece of paper, he or she can walk away with that piece of paper,” says Petty. Digital files can be protected with passwords and security software.

If you’re ready to go digital, Petty offers some advice for getting the process started:

* Don’t go completely paperless right away. Start out with the documents that are most critical to your business.

* Establish who will control the digital process. One person should lead the process and train others.

* Review your equipment. You’ll want to be sure you choose software that is compatible with the software and equipment you already have. If you already own a multi-function printer, you may be able to use the scanning feature to work with software like Dymo File. If your work volume will exceed what your current equipment can handle, invest in new equipment that will be able to keep pace with the work load.

* Consider software that will allow you to back up your software quickly and easily.

To learn more about DymoFile, visit http://www.DymoFile.com   .

(ARA) – Most people have come to understand that it is important to choose a complex password and to change their passwords often in order to protect their privacy and information. But security professionals now believe that passwords simply don’t work anymore.

There are too many ways for passwords to be compromised for people to trust this thin layer of protection. The Internet is now filled with technologies specifically designed to capture your password. “Phishing” sites that mimic familiar sites and keystroke loggers that track the information you type are now part of the landscape of the Internet.

People are becoming more aware that it’s not good enough to simply be very careful with the passwords that are used for important accounts or Web sites. Most people use the same or very similar passwords across many Web sites and therefore, when a password is captured, it can be used to access many things.

A recent survey found that 70 percent of IT professionals thought passwords were not secure. These same people admitted that one in five companies had already had a security breach that allowed private information to get into the wrong hands. The U.S. Federal Trade Commission claims that consumers lost more than $5 billion to identity theft in 2007 and businesses lost far more.

“Consumers need to become more aware of the danger of relying exclusively on passwords to protect their personal information; and Web sites need to provide simple and inexpensive ways for consumers to protect themselves,” says Evan Conway, chief identity officer of Positive Networks, a company that specializes in working with companies and Web sites to ensure that privacy and information is protected.

One approach, he explains, to having a more secure site is a concept called two-factor authentication. The idea is that prior to allowing someone access to an account, a Web site or application checks two separate things for identity verification.

“Not only does the consumer need to have the password, but must also have an additional method to prove their identity,” says Conway. Sites that use Positive Networks’ PhoneFactor (www.phonefactor.com) technology, will instantly ring either the customer’s mobile or landline phone when someone signs onto an application or Web site. The password is verified just like normal and then the user must answer an instant automatic phone call to gain access. It only takes seconds and generally comes at no cost to the consumer. In additional to preventing unauthorized access, it proactively notifies a consumer if there is a fraudulent attempt to gain access being made.

Other approaches require consumers to carry a special physical “token” with them that provides a constantly changing additional password to verify. While generally quite secure, this approach can be expensive and requires consumers to carry an extra device. Biometric technologies such as fingerprint readers and retinal scans are no longer science fiction and have been implemented in some cases. While adding appropriate security, they also bring a high cost and require additional devices to be available to make the verification.

While the risk of a breach is expensive for consumers and companies, bad publicity is also driving companies to make these improvements. Stories develop almost daily regarding issues of identity theft and privacy loss caused by failures of businesses to protect their customers. The Wall Street Journal reported on April 29, 2008, that a series of national medical organizations, including health plans and medical facilities, had privacy breaches. Beyond the cost issues associated with these breaches, the loss of trust can provide additional challenges and legal issues for these types of organizations.

What is clear is that it will take a combined effort to protect your identity and privacy. Technology providers continue to offer solutions that are much easier for consumers and businesses. Businesses and Web sites must implement solutions and actively promote them to their users.

In the end, consumers must protect themselves by choosing to do business with organizations that offer solutions that adequately protect their privacy. It is becoming increasingly clear that passwords no longer offer a protection that can be trusted by consumers.

To learn more about the PhoneFactor service offered by Positive Networks, visit www.phonefactor.com.

10 skills for every homeowner

You don’t have to call a pro every time you need a repair

Here are 10 skills every homeowner should master. You don’t need to run out and learn them all immediately, of course. But you’ll appreciate them — and save yourself lots of money.

You can tackle most with simple hand tools, either items you own or those you can buy for $10 or less. The only power tool here is a variable speed drill.

1

REPLACE A DOOR LOCK. If you buy an existing house, you might want to replace the exterior locks. On the inside of the door, remove the two long bolts holding the front and back of the lock together; remove the front and back of the lock. On the edge of the door, remove the screws holding latch in place, and pull the latch out.

To replace, just add new hardware in reverse order.

Door hardware needs tightening and lubricating over the years, so understanding how it works will pay off in more than extra security.

Tips: Before buying new hardware, check the “backset,” or the distance from the edge of door to center of the hole for the deadbolt or doorknob. Replacement hardware will need to match; some locksets are adjustable, and accommodate the two standard backsets. Also, the helpful guy at the home center or hardware store can key all locks alike.

2

CHANGE FURNACE AND AIR CONDITIONING FILTERS. Nothing difficult about this. Be sure you know where all the filters are — on air returns or at the air handler — and how to change them.

Tips: Make a note of filter sizes and keep the information handy. (You want to be sure you have the right size before you climb the tall stepladder.) Also, learn how to clear the pipe that carries condensation from the air handler during the cooling season. The pipes can get clogged with mold and algae — and the water can back up and start dripping from your ceiling. If your air handler is in the attic or a utility room, it should have two drains: one from the unit, and the other from the safety pan under the unit.

3

LEARN THE LOCATION OF THE MAIN WATER CUTOFF. It’s probably in a utility room or closet, but could be at a water tank or near the meter. You don’t want to go looking for it after a pipe bursts.

Tips: Familiarize yourself with other cutoffs, too: Don’t forget the dishwasher and icemaker, for instance. And learn how to turn off the gas in an emergency: Gas valves, indoors or at the meter, are open when parallel to the line and closed when perpendicular.

4

FIND A STUD IN WALL. You’ll want to locate studs any time you’re hanging a heavy object, or installing molding or cabinets. Most homeowners know the tap-tap-tap routine; you’ll get a hollow sound between studs, a solid thunk on the stud. (Most of the time.) The centers of the studs are 16 inches apart — so if you find one you can usually locate the others pretty easily.

Tips: Look for the heads of finishing nails near the top edge of the baseboard. Those nails will be in studs. Or hold a flashlight against the wall, shining the light parallel to the wall. Turn the flashlight slowly to sweep the wall with light. You’ll be able to spot the patches over drywall nail heads or screw heads that aren’t visible otherwise.

5 CHOOSE THE ANCHOR. For spaces between studs, you’ll want to use hollow-wall anchors to mount towel bars, drapery rods and the like on walls. The most important rule is to match the anchor to the weight of the item you’re mounting. From weakest to strongest, anchors are plastic expansion anchors, threaded drywall anchors (Zip-It), winged plastic anchors, molly bolts or sleeve-type anchors, and toggle bolts.

When installing anchors, you can make small holes in drywall with an awl or sharp nail, but you should use a drill for larger holes.

Read More:News & Observer

(ARA) – Thinking of remodeling? You are not alone. The majority of money spent by homeowners on home upkeep goes toward improvement projects versus maintenance and repairs.

Homeowners spent an estimated $226.4 billion in 2007 on home improvement projects and repairs, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. Home improvements accounted for 75.8 percent of total spending, while another 24.2 percent went into maintenance and repairs.

However, not knowing what to expect during remodeling can be very daunting. Don’t let fear hold you back from needed or desired home improvement projects like upgrading leaky windows or drafty doors. The added energy savings, plus the improved style and comfort of new windows and doors, will help you save money on utility bills, and add to the overall value and look of your home.

To help reduce replacement anxiety, it’s important to select a company with professional installers who are able to do the job efficiently and correctly. Here’s what you should look for:

* Installation should take place in most any weather, since the inside of your home is protected.
* For your safety and security, installation professionals should wear proper identification.
* Your installers should park where it’s convenient for you.
* The installation team leader should share the schedule and answer your questions.
* The installation crew should cover the area with drop cloths to protect your home.
* Cutting of materials should take place outside.
* The installation team leader should give you frequent updates on the progress of your window and/or door replacement.
* Upon completion, the replacement team should clean your new windows and doors, vacuum the work area and haul your old windows and doors away.
* The installation team leader should demonstrate the operation and care of your new windows and doors, review your warranty, give you an owner’s manual and answer final questions.
* Then it’s time to celebrate, enjoy compliments from the neighbors and relax in a quieter, more comfortable home.

When installing Pella doors and windows you will get all of these benefits. “It’s evident that Pella understands and places emphasis on the importance of proper installation and installed our windows properly,” said Prescott Gaylord, Baltimore Green Construction project manager, regarding the non-profit Rebuilding Together project where Pella crews installed new Architect Series windows in the Community Mediation Program’s headquarters.

The time is now
In a recent national survey by Kelton Research, two-thirds of homeowners agree it’s not okay to delay window replacement despite the dread and anxiety of home improvement projects for many people.

And, those who did replace window reported their energy efficiency priorities were met as well as savings, style and comfort. Almost half (49 percent) reported their utility bills actually went down after their last window replacement project. They also found their homes more comfortable (48 percent), more valuable (38 percent) and their new windows aesthetically more pleasing (48 percent).

For more information about how to create a better view in your home and what to expect during a window and door replacement project, call (888) 84-PELLA or visit http://www.pellareplacement.com to request a free Window & Door Replacement guide.

Summer Beauty Starts with Protection

(ARA) – Break out the patio furniture and light up the barbeque – it’s time for summer entertaining! Whether you’re hosting the neighborhood Fourth of July cook-out or dolling up for a romantic evening under the stars, make sure you are protecting your skin before you head outdoors for summer fun.

For those who think the sun is the only thing they need to protect themselves from during the summer months, guess again. Mosquito bites are not only unsightly, but last year, West Nile Virus affected 121 people in the U.S. according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). However, women especially, don’t have to let ugly insect bites ruin their summer fun.

“It doesn’t have to be hard to keep your skin beautiful all summer long,” says Rebecca Borman, former Survivor contestant, and two-time Emmy Award-winning make-up artist on The View. “Keep your summer beauty routine low-maintenance with products like OFF! FamilyCare Smooth & Dry, which protects skin from mosquito bites and feels dry and comfortable.”

For those summertime occasions when you’d rather wear a sundress or shorts, she recommends quickly spraying on the repellent and going about your day. The unique cornstarch formula dries on contact and feels smooth and weightless on skin (unlike greasy, oily repellents).

Whether you’re attending a backyard barbeque or an outdoor concert, in addition to putting on bug repellent, Borman recommends you do the following:

* Protect your skin.
When stepping outside, protect your skin from the sun by wearing a high SPF sunblock (at least 15) to help avoid sunburn and premature wrinkles. Also, don’t forget to wear repellent to prevent ugly and potentially dangerous insect bites.

* Avoid smeared make-up.
Use a weatherproof powder to set and prevent make-up smudges and meltdowns. Facial blotting tissues can also help with quick touch ups.

* Stay hydrated.
Pack a water bottle in your beach bag, and when you stop for lunch, be sure to ask for that extra refill so you can top it off. Drinking cool liquids will help beat the summer heat and will help replenish your skin’s glow.

With these few tips you should be ready to enjoy an afternoon at the beach or evening on the patio without letting annoying mosquitoes or other summer elements disrupt your beauty routine!

For more tips on keeping mosquitoes at bay, visit http://www.offprotects.com   .