Feel Like a Celebrity in a Leather Jacket

When it comes to fashion, what is that one common factor between both men and women? That's right; it's their goal to look and feel fabulous. Some would argue that it is just the women who feel this way but in society today men have not shied away from being fashionable and take as much interest in looking handsome just as women do in looking beautiful. And that one common attire that both men and women love to wear in order to look phenomenal is a leather jacket. These jackets have and forever will be loved and adored by all and that is why they are considered, to this day, the trendiest and stylish outerwear for all.

We all know that ordinary men and women love these jackets, but who exactly inspired them to fall in love with them? Yes, our celebrities have a huge part to play when it comes to inspiring the common man with regards to fashion and trend. We tend to spot many actors and actresses rocking such jackets, looking incredibly dashing and attractive. Just recently, one of our very favorite 'Friends' star was spotted pulling off an extremely diva and punk rock look in her short and extremely trendy black leather jacket. She was flaunting this amazing style very effortlessly and has managed to pair the jacket with a rocking and chic look. She had a suave scarf wrapped around her neck and had on a pair of skinny jeans with brown biker boots. She had the whole image locked down and could not have looked any spunkier. Even with a very casual and laidback look, her jacket managed to make her look extremely stylish hence justifying the fact that these jackets are totally worth it.

Just like women, men too are inspired by their celebrity role models when it comes to fashion and clothes because they want to look just like them. The perfect example then would be given of infamous super star David Beckham. Men absolutely adore this man, not just because of his immense football career and skills, not because of his beautiful family but also because of the fact that this man dresses to impress. He has a slick wardrobe and is often caught wearing the most stylish and fashionable jackets. And there is no doubt about that fact that he looks gorgeous in a leather jacket. He has always been spotted pulling of such jackets in the most casual and laidback ways since he often pairs it with a causal tee and pair of everyday jeans. Nevertheless, even in this casual look he always manages to look amazing. And some of the credit can go to the jacket.

Therefore, if you also have a fetish for looking and feeling like a celebrity then it is time you invest in a jacket that has your back. Leather jackets have great appeal to them and can instantly make you look amazing and that also in the most effortless way possible. Grab yours right away and be well on your way to looking like a star.

By Alex Qureshi

The Skin And Phytoceramides - How They Work Together

The outermost layer of mammalian skin is known as the stratum corneum. It acts as a barrier and protects the inner cellular structure from external stresses. In so doing, it helps in keeping the skin protected from factors such as excessive transcutaneous water loss. The cells of the outer layer which are made up of ceramides and conrneocytes are what work in accomplishing this very important function by creating a barrier. Any disruption in this barrier through physical trauma arising due to conditions such as eczema or simple aging will compromise its functional ability.

The result of such compromise includes decreased skin elasticity and increased susceptibility to infections as well as increased water loss. All these factors speed up the formation of fine lines and wrinkles at the corners of the eyes and mouth in addition to creating a dull skin texture. They are the signs that will easily tell the age of an individual. People dread the formation of these cosmetic changes and many, especially women have gone to great extents to work out a solution to fighting the signs of aging.

The Ceramides Solution

The ceramides responsible for skin health are produced naturally in the body. The amount decreases with age. Plants contain protein compounds with the same kind of structure; almost identical to what humans have. Since they are plant derived, they are referred to as Phytoceramides. Like the ceramides found in the human body, the Phytoceramides aid in creating a protective barrier within the epidermis.

Supplements containing ceramides are now readily in the market and replace the components which are lost through hydration effects and aging. These ceramides come with a moisturizing effect, especially for the supplements since they are carried right into the blood. They therefore directly improve on the functionality of ceramides and will give results which can be harder to achieve with topical applications.

They have become important compounds for the overall protection of the skin. They will work by establishing and maintaining water retaining properties of the skin. As they decrease with age, increased trans-epidermal water loss is experienced leading to the skin changes. These plant-derived ceramides will therefore work in the prevention of moisture loss from the skin as a result of aging and trauma. They are also believed to inhibit Melanogenesis, the process through which the cells produce skin-coloring pigments, giving the skin an even tone and preventing formation of age spots. It is helpful when it comes to hyper pigmentation, causing age spots and discolorations of the skin.

The plant-based ceramides when consumed in supplement form are first digested and then transported to the stratum through the blood. As a result, the plant-based ceramides circulate easily and effectively, thus giving significant effects, especially in the promotion of the important water barrier in skin layers. They end up maintaining a functional barrier that will keep the skin well-protected from all harm. When going for the Phytoceramides however, it is important to ensure that you are settling for a product that is 100% natural and with the potential of fetching you the best results without exposing you to any more harm.

By Derk Ward

Uptown Beauty on a Budget

Counter Freebies

Most department store beauty counters offer complimentary facials, hand massages, makeovers and makeup lessons. Don't feel guilty about indulging in complimentary services. Get to know the beauty consultant at your favorite counter. Each beauty consultant is fully educated on her line and can recommend products to meet your needs and budget.

Before making a huge investment in expensive products, ask for samples to try at home. You can repeat this process as many times as you like by visiting different counters and stores, until you find ones that meet your needs and budget. This will replenish your supply of products you use and like albeit sample sizes. Samples are a great way to stockpile products to try. They're also great when travelling.

Be sure to get on contact lists. You'll be notified about price specials such as gift with purchase or purchase with purchase. Stay in touch with your beauty consultant, and cultivate the relationship. Your consultant will lavish you with freebies if you are loyal!

Department Special Events

Be on the lookout for Bridal Shows, Career Fairs, Ladies Night and the like. These events are fun and you can get a boatload of freebies there as every counter offers free products and services. Typically you buy a ticket, which is partially refundable towards a purchase. They serve food and feature A-list makeup artists, hair stylists, health club reps. They pamper you with free services from massages to nail art. It's a nice girls' night out.

Other Options

Check out Sephora and Ulta. These mega cosmetics stores carry popular brands as well as a lot of other brands you may not know. While they may not offer the same intimate relationship you can build with department stores, they more than make up for the loss with their selection.

Cosmetics can also be purchased from sample sales or even on e-Bay. Stick with products and brands that you're already familiar. This is not the time to experiment. Be sure to request product have their integrity seal and original packaging when possible for health and safety reasons. This will help ensure you're getting untampered, unadulterated products.

One last word. Everyone is looking for great deals, but no one likes a mooch. When you're out there rockin' the world with your shopping savvy, take your shopping etiquette with you. Good hunting.

Save money by maxing cosmetics out. Snip the tops off tubs to get the last little bit. Turn cosmetics in bottles up-end so the dregs collect at the top.

By Marla Currie