Even if your home is filled with history – it doesn’t have to be a dusty museum.  If you’ve been lucky enough to have inherited a gorgeous item of antique wooden furniture, or you’re a collector yourself, with the right care and maintenance, these pieces of history will retain their value and their intrinsic beauty.

The broad definition of an antique is something that is older than a hundred years – but of course, not every antique is necessarily valuable nor of historic value.  However, most have an emotional or sentimental value and perhaps for that reason alone, it’s worth caring for them properly.

It’s important to know that antique furniture has to be treated differently from modern home furnishings.  Sprays, polishes, oils and finishes can have an effect on the value of the furniture as they can contain harmful chemicals, so it’s really important to understand what can and can’t be done when it comes to looking after antiques.

Three important aspects need to be considered – how to clean the furniture, how to protect it and where it is situated in the home (or the office). 

Cleaning your antique furniture

Regular dusting is essential, but the emphasis is on ‘gentle’ and ‘harmless’.  Too much dust can harm the surface of the piece, but vigorous or careless dusting can also be harmful.   Always use a lint-free soft cloth and don’t use any sprays or polishes containing chemicals.  Using furniture oil will give the patina of the wood an instant ‘lift’, but this is only short-term and the oil can actually stain the finish and leave a residue which attracts abrasive dust.  Oils and polishes that contain silicon as the base should also not be used as these can penetrate into the wood as well as leave a finish that is hard to remove.

The very best way of cleaning your antique furniture is to use the right polishes – and that is a thin coat of natural wax polish followed by a buffing with a soft, slightly damp cloth and regular dusting to keep the surface free from any abrasive grit or grime.

Protection

Ensuring your antiques are dust-free and polished with wax polish is the first step, but it’s also vital to protect your furniture from life’s little knocks.  A vase of fresh flowers on a gleaming chest of drawers is a classically beautiful combination but always take care with spills.  Any spilt liquid should be wiped up immediately (ensure the surface is 100% dry) and place the vase on a protective mat (eg a square of felt etc) to prevent it from scratching.  Felt ‘dots’ or ‘feet’ are widely available from shops and should be placed under all ornaments, photograph frames etc to prevent them from damaging or scratching the surface.

To prevent uneven fading of the surface, all ornaments, lamps etc should be moved around.  If you’re laying cutlery on the tabletop, take care as metal can scratch the surface. 

The hard plastic nozzle of the vacuum cleaner can also scratch and dent the furniture, so take care when cleaning around your antique pieces. 

Where furniture is located

Antiques shoulnd’t be placed near windows as they can easily be damaged by direct sunlight.  Not even a good furniture polish will be able to restore the original beauty and colour of an antique if it has been damaged and faded by sunlight.  Wooden furniture will react adversely if the environment is too dry or if there is too much humidity – so keeping temperature changes to the minimum is advisable.  In a very humid environment, wood can warp, the veneer can swell and mildew and mould can form, whilst it can crack and the joints loosen if the atmosphere is too dry.

Antique wooden furniture shouldn’t be placed in front of heaters, airconditioners, stoves or fireplaces.

Caring for antiques isn’t hard.   To get the best furniture finish for your precious pieces and to keep their heritage and their beauty shining through, a little knowledge and a little effort will go a long way!.

bluebasins, Canada’s newest premier line of bath and body products, is pleased to announce it’s new foot care line, a great addition to their all-natural Canadian products Toronto, ON, Canada – June 2007 – As the temperature rises, the layers start peeling off not only on the body but also on the feet.  No longer are the thermal socks, stockings or boots needed because it’s finally time to wear our summer sandals or walk bare footed on the grass. But are your feet summer sandal ready?  Were you taking care of them all winter long although they were mostly covered.  By the looks of it, quite a few of you were not.  So with the official summer season already upon us, you can get your feet summer sandal ready quickly with the Perfect Pedicure Routine created by a new online all natural skin care product company, bluebasins bath and body bluebasins bath and body has designed their foot care system to naturally have your feet feeling and looking great. “We realize that a lot of people do not take great care of their feet either because they do not know how, have no time or no idea where to start, that’s why we’ve created this simple system to start the user on a path to having great healthy feet,” says Makeda Paul, owner, “besides, it’s summer and you’ll want to show them off with pride.”

bluebasins has created a simple five step foot care system with the products created from 100% natural essential oils and herbs that promote healthy skin and soft heals.  The entire system, recommended once a week, is designed to have your feet looking and feeling great.   It includes products such as their Peppermint and Tea Tree Liquid Foot Soap, Revitalizing Herbal Foot Fizz, Warming Ginger Foot Mask, Tea Tree and Mint Exfoliating Foot Scrub, Peppermint and Tea Tree Foot Butter and Cooling Foot Powder. So even though your feet are abused throughout the day bluebasins bath and body products will help you take great care of them at home.

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The real attractiveness of a human being lies in depth prettiness of your skin, is a accurate belief. Skin is the major organ of our body along with also is the most indispensable shielding layer for our figure. In the today’s globe, there are several skin treatments existing, with the help of which we can increase our skin. Facial treatments are perhaps the most famous skin development methods that are suffered by people across the world. The facial treatment not only helps you to ease as well as not recall all your anxiety, but they also help to invigorate the beauty of your skin.

The facial treatments are existing in assorted kinds that incorporate the treatments through your hands along with also the electrotherapy. Each categories of the facials have their individual significance, which gives the great consequences that depends on the approach in which they are carried out. Facial treatments chiefly help you in evading your aging indications. Any facial treatment basically starts from the amputation of makeup along with the proper cleansing of your skin. This is very central as there are numerous dirt subdivisions and other lethal matters that get confined in our skin apertures. Thus, to have enhanced result of the facial treatment on your skin a thorough purification becomes enormously imperative. Using a excellent exfoliation base along with the other suitable creams, the skin of your face, neck, back, shoulders and the scalp are massaged properly so as to ease the muscles in addition to also to increase the movement of blood in these spots. The facial treatments help in removing the dead skin cells from your skin which slowly collect together to give increase to an unhealthy looking skin which thus makes you look sick in addition to aged.

The electrotherapy treatment includes a steam machine that provides your skin the steam in the requisite amount so as to open up the pores of your skin properly which will further help in a enhanced sanitization stroke on your skin. The better the sanitization improved will be the upshot of your facial treatment. The last ending of the facial treatments is to acquire a younger looking skin that typically is thought to be achieved only through the facelift treatment for your skin.

Thus, there are processes that can help you to get a well looking younger skin, but it only depends on you on which one you select for your skin. To simplify this problem of yours, you can easily take the help of a superior dermatologist who can help you select the best way according to your skin sort in addition to requirements to avoid your creases on the skin as well as thus give you a improved appearance.

Many women have at one time realized that their eyes do not look like those models in fashion magazines, so they might choose to look at eyelash extensions. They could be helpful for women whose lashes on the upper eyelids quite frankly tend not to grow very long or are especially thin. There are many diverse brands and solutions on the market, so selecting the right product for you can be a challenge.

You will discover temporary solutions that are designed to be replaced often. Some must be applied at make up or cosmetic counters at department stores or by somebody who specializes in this, while others may be put on at home.

These items have been available for many years, so manufacturers have had a great deal of time to perfect the items and make suitable changes. This might be the route to take in case you want something for a particular occasion or just to use once in awhile when you would like a change in your look.

Strips for each eye can cost from $3 tot $5 at most shops that offer eye makeup and care merchandise. Short-term items offered in strips are normally put on each day. They are usually produced from man-made materials or from genuine human hair. They are able to last as much as a week or two if cared for properly.

Though it is possible to take a shower and perform other activities with them on, they should be taken off at night to enable the pores of your eyelids to breathe. In the event you are not sure which manufacturers to look at, ask a few friends or co-workers who have applied these products for tips. Many products are available in diverse colors, including blonde, brown, dark brown and black, so you are able to coordinate your actual color much more accurately.

Semi-permanent products are strands of synthetic hairs that are affixed to the real hairs. They have to be applied by a specialist who does this for a living. They will need to have to be touched up regularly, as the real hair falls out just about every couple months and completely new ones grow back in.  With proper care, such treatments can last several months.

Prices for the initial application can range from close to $200 to $300. Additionally, every touch up can cost as much as $100, depending on the salon or person you go to to get the application. You’ll be able to swim, sleep and do almost everything you typically do with this type of application.

Long lasting solutions require a surgical course of action where very small individual hairs are set into the skin in the line in which your own hairs generally grow. This can be a pretty high-priced procedure but is turning out to be increasingly common. It does include the normal risks of any surgical procedure, but quite a few women think the appearance is well worth it. You will not need to be concerned about touch ups in the majority of cases and can do everything you typically do, for example swim and shower.

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These days it makes sense to create a little sanctuary in your own home because of the stresses of a modern world there is so little time to relax and pamper yourself. To take refuge from these daily stresses the bathroom is the ideal place to make your little haven. Whether it is just for a long soak in the bath, making up your own facial or a complete pampering session all you are required to do is create a spa like ambience with lots of suitable accessories.

Sometimes the bathroom is overdue for a revamp in any case so creating your spa sanctuary may be kick started by giving your bathroom a painting makeover. Your home spa may look cool and clinical with white paint but it can also give it that sense of purity. You could therefore go for a calming pale pastel or neutral colour like cream or a soft yellow. Using an aquatic colour can give an invigorating feel. One thing to remember is to use a waterproof type paint which can withstand condensation and prevents mould developing.

On the floor avoid carpet which can soak up lots of moisture and rot, instead decorative tiles or lino will add a better visual appeal. Tiles on the wall also add an extra dimension to your home spa.

Of course if your bathroom suit is shabby and in need of replacement then you can purchase a new one. The major DIY centres all stock very good ranges of bathroom ranges which are designer inspired but there are many excellent stores which you can check out online that sells bathroom suites of quality at affordable prices. Of course if you really have a desire to create a home spa and money is no option there are plenty of higher end products on the market, or you may even want to splash out on your very own hot tub.

If you are replacing your suit visualise what your ideal home spa will look like and what style you are aiming at. There are many options and if you go for a modern look which is slick and streamlined, go for simple and luxurious lines with smooth glossy finishes and some chrome that gleams. The detailing must be decorative if you decide on a more vintage look but must also fit your requirements. To avoid your new suit overcrowding the bathroom, measuring up before hand is essential. Include a towel rail and laundry basket and also have enough space for disrobing and redressing. Of course if there is plenty of room in your bathroom then you should also add a chair for relaxing into after your bath for doing things like panting your nails, its ideal for chilling out.

Smart new panel boarding will add a little touch of luxury and new taps is also a great enhancment. Another thing quite a few people do is to upgrade there bath to a new free standing type. You can get very modern versions or you could go for the classic look with a roll top and clawed feet. Go online to fine many options for all types of home spa baths. There is also another option whereby you can do away with the bath altogether and go for a wet room but this needs expert planning which requires special plumbing and membranes.

Neat storage or shelving is also a must and you need to be clever here as the only things that should be on display are your pack of soft fluffy towels and your display of pampering accessories. Your home spa will feel better if you put away all your half used products and cleaning items. For a nice touch have some jars filled with shells and starfish and also nice pebbles and to the ambience.

For creating the illusion of space mirrors are essential and look fabulous, they also make use of any natural light. Of course mirrors are also vital as you need to see how good you look after your pampering session.

Top tips for home spas

• Invest in a new set of luxurious towels that compliment your bathrooms colour scheme.
• Make sure you have plenty of beauty products on display and the shelving to show them off.
• Your home spa can be enhanced with the addition with a display of cut flowers.
• Home spas are also enhanced with a comfortable chair if there is room to spare.
• Before stepping into the bath light some scented candles to add to the occasion.
• Add relaxing and soothing bath salts to your bath water for your pampering session.
• Turn on some relaxing music before entering your tub.
• Use aromatic bath oils to relax you and give your skin a glow.
• Remove dead skin cells by exfoliating.

Nail care products were already being used during the time of ancient Egyptians and the reign of the Pharaohs. They used henna to put color onto their nails and fingertips. This practice was both to beautify the nails and to determine social order. On the other hand, the Ancient Chinese used colored lacquer made from gum Arabic, egg whites, gelatin and beeswax. Modern-day nail care products are a lot different from these ancient products.

Today’s nail care products are not just confined on the beautifying elements but also on hygiene and health. No need to worry in keeping healthy, beautiful nails because these products are abundant – you can buy and use them at home, or get them as an add-on when you visit a salon.

Here are some of the most common nail care products that you’ll find today:

Nail polish removers – These are commonly used to remove nail polish. However, they tend to make the nails dry and brittle in some occasions, so limit your usage per week.

Nail lotions – To keep nails moisturized and healthy-looking, you’ll need to use this product. Use them if have cracked and dry nails.

Base coat – It is best to apply nail polish over a UV-protection base coat. This prevents nails from nail polish stains.

Cuticle cream – You’ll find cuticle creams that have vitamins A and E, and jojoba oil that all help soften the cuticles.

Top coat or nail sealer – To help protect and retain your nails’ moisture, you can apply top coats over your nail polish or just over natural nails.

Nail polish – Nail polishes in today’s market are quite plentiful and they are also classified in various types, such as those that are made for specific nail problems.

Nail hardener – This product should only be brushed over nails to protect, strengthen and moisturize them.

Nail polish thinner – This product is used in thinning out nail polish. To prolong its shelf-life, you may keep it in the refrigerator.

Nail care lotion – This product helps you keep your nails and hands moisturized and soft. Use it after washing your hands for better results.

Nail brush – Remove stains and dirt by scrubbing your nails with a nail brush. It’s best use mild soap for better results.

You can easily buy these nail care products since they are inexpensive. And it is advisable to only purchase what you truly need. If you prefer to go to a salon, then you may have to spend a little for the service and other products that may be offered to you.

The Best in Skin Care

Today skin care is taken to a new level, and many people consider herbal skin care to be the best choice when considering natural skin care. These natural skin care products provide revitalizing nutrients and anti-oxidants that help keep your skin beautiful and ageless. Herbal skin care contains all natural herbs, with no added preservatives and no additional oils. Some of these products are known for their anti-aging properties, making this type of skin care the very best in keeping you looking young and giving you the most beautiful skin you have ever had. It is not only used to improve the look of your skin, but it also improves the health of your skin, special nutrients help moisturize and revitalize your skin leaving you with a clean, clear and beautiful finish.

What Makes Herbal Skin Care So Special?

Today there are many skin care products out there and buying the one for you can get a little confusing. But, with all the products around today one of the truly best choices are the herbal skin care products that do not add any animal fats, excess oils, or anything that might cause irritation for people with sensitive skin. Since everyone has a different skin type, herbal skin care is perfect because it can provide each skin type with the nutrients it needs to stay beautiful. 

Most of these skin care products also provide a powerful sunscreen to protect your delicate skin from harmful UV rays. Most people do not realize how sensitive their skin is from the sun, a good sunscreen is important to keep your skin protected from cancer causing UV rays, and most cosmetics and skin care products do not carry enough protection in their formula. You can even grown many of the herbs used in these types of skin care products in your very own garden. Chamomile, lavender, sage, and lemon balm are all easily grown in your home garden or even in a few flower pots.

Herbal Skin Care and the Health of Your Skin

Herbal skin care helps your skin function properly. With all that your skin goes through in one day, you need something that will replenish and renew your skin. UV rays, stress, and pollution – all of these result in damage done to your skin. Natural skin care contains vitamins that heal your skin and leave you looking your best. Your skin is ever growing and changing, and it needs the necessary vitamins and minerals to keep it healthy, just like any other part of your day to day life you should take special care when it comes to your skin.

Natural skin care products can be found at your local beauty supply store or online, but be sure to read the labels carefully, so that the ingredients are all natural, and contain no added preservatives or unnecessary oils or fatty acids. Some companies that sell these products claim that they are 100% natural, but it is a good idea to read the labels so that you are absolutely sure that they are completely and 100% natural. Remember that skin care is important and you should never neglect to care for your skin properly. It will keep you happy, healthy, and beautiful for years to come.

In yesterday’s world, the thoughts about good skin care products were not very complex. Essentially, good skin care was something that made you appear better straight away. Excessive makeup and cosmetics, products that could eventually damage the skin and even sporadically poison the body, were the whole fad. If it looked beautiful, it was what you wanted to put on your face. In many ways, skin care cosmetics have changed since those days, but the changes have come very slowly. Novelties such as natural skin care are still not normally recognized, and many individuals use abrasive skin anti aging treatments that may do more damage than good sooner or later.

As a dermatologist familiar to the practice of alternative medicine, I try to turn people away from this technique. There are some amazing creams on hand for skin treatments, but good skin care doesn’t start with the skin itself. If you desire having good skin care, you could do with taking care of your body as a whole. Good quality nutrition is where good skin initiates, you see. Clearly, these days numerous individuals recognize that eating too much fatty food can make your skin oily, greasy, and unhealthy looking. It can damage your complexion in ways that are not simply fixed by topical treatments. What persons don’t realize is that the problems go deeper than that. The vitamins that make healthy skin look alive and healthy come from the food that you eat every day. Without getting good nutrition, there’s no way to have truthfully good skin care

Naturally, if that were all that was needed to take care of your skin, us dermatologists would be out of business. We would be replaced with dietitians at once! Fortunately for my profession, there is more that goes into skincare than nutrition. There are many diverse treatments on hand for a variety of different skin concerns. Exfoliants, anti-wrinkle creams, coverup and makeup, and nutritional rubs can all lend a hand in keeping your skin healthy and good-looking. Health spas, massages, and other treatments that don’t visibly relate to the skin can still perk up appearance. It seems that, the way our skin looks is much more complex than even dermatologists anticipated. In essence, good skin care has to do with two things: being conscious of the variety of treatments existing, and being willing to try them until you find something that works. With enough determination, even the most horrible skincare issues can be resolved. It is just a matter of being patient.