Looking good

Quick tips to perk up down days We all have those days: hair looks limp and lifeless, skin looks slate grey, a pimple has appeared literally overnight, and the lips sting as a cold sore lurks. Here are a few quick solutions to quell morning panic.

Cold sore cover-up
Cold sores have the knack of surfacing at the worst possible moment. Stress, change of climate, or weakened health can trigger a cold sore. At the first sign of tingling or redness on the lip, dab with a clean cotton swab and tea tree oil lotion. This rather strange smelling lotion has incredible healing properties. Keep hands away from the cold sore area and avoid putting on makeup, which will not cover the cold sore but may infect it.

Skin that sparkles
Dry dull skin results when dead cells accumulate on the surface of the skin. Depending on the amount of time and money you have available, choose one of three solutions.

• Call up your favourite spa and book an appointment for a professional facial. It will leave you feeling pampered with healthy glowing skin and a relaxed smile.

• If you can’t splurge on a spa treatment, use a home facial with exfoliating fruits and follow the directions on the package. The facial will take about 10 minutes; the result: a glowing complexion. Soothe on a little moisturizer and you’re ready to go. Plan to pick up several facial packs the next time you’re in your health food store. They have a great selection.

• In a hurry to look good quickly? Keep handy a skin lotion containing alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs). To apply, remove all traces of makeup and use a cotton pad to gently wipe on the lotion.  

Healthy hair
Gels and hair styling products will not fix a bad hair day. It may be that your immune system is low, which affects the body and oiliness of your hair. Avoid this problem by supplementing your diet with a multivitamin. A good cut will also bring life back into your hair. Avoid chemical colours on damaged hair, though. Health food stores offer a selection of natural henna products that will add highlights to most hair colours.

The most important thing to remember: don’t let these minor glitches spoil your day. Instead, step out with confidence and a big smile, ready to enjoy yourself.