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DIY

Mistakes you should avoid when fixing eyelash extensions

by adminV June 14, 2018

written by adminV

eyelash extensions Long lashes are beautiful and lovely to behold. It transforms a face and makes it irresistible and unforgettable. Eyelash extension is a beauty product used to accentuate and transform the eyes. It is used to make a woman look glamorous without putting in too much effort.

Eyelash extensions should accentuate the eyes not annihilate them. Poorly fixed eyelash extensions make the eye look droopy and dull. To avoid making the eyelash look like the broken wings of a bird, here are mistakes to avoid:

It is natural to have eyelashes on all parts of the eyelid. Carefully measure the extensions to fit the length of the lid.

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There are so many beauty salons that claim to offer a good service. If you don’t know how to do this yourself, use a professional that knows how to fix the extensions.

The glue used to fix the extensions can cause irritation.
To avoid this irritation, glue the extension on the natural lashes not on the edge of the eyelid. Give a 1millimetre gap and fix the eyelash extension to give a natural look.

Eyelash extension gives a beautiful and effortless transformation. Chose a natural look of this beauty accessory and you are good to go, without the hassle of extra makeup.

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Do not use substandard products. They give a droopy and dull look. Use human hair lash extensions

Eyelash extension gives a beautiful and effortless transformation. Chose a natural look of this beauty accessory and you are good to go, without the hassle of extra makeup.

Culled from Guardian

June 14, 2018 0 comment

DIY

YOUR KITCHEN: How to cook Oha Soup

by adminV June 9, 2018

written by adminV

Oha Soup
Photo Credit: Sisiyemmie

Oha soup is native to the South Eastern Nigeria. It is a very traditional

soup similar to the bitterleaf soup but cooked with Oha leaves.

Ingredients for Oha Soup

Vegetable: Oha leaves
8 small corms cocoyam
3 cooking spoons Red Palm Oil
Assorted Beef: Includes best cut, shaki (cow tripe)
Assorted Fish: Dry Fish and Stock Fish
Chilli pepper, salt and crayfish (to taste)
2 Stock cubes
1 teaspoon Ogiri Igbo

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Before you cook the Nigerian Oha Soup

Grind the crayfish and pepper and set aside.
Wash and boil the cocoyam corms till soft. Remove the peels and use a mortar and pestle to pound the corms to a smooth paste.
Using your fingers, cut the Oha leaves into tiny pieces. This technique is to prevent the vegetable from becoming darker in colour, which happens when you cut the ora leaves with a knife.

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Cooking Directions

Boil the shaki (cow tripe), stock fish and dry fish in 1 litre of water till they are well done.
Wash the beef and add to the pot of shaki etc. and continue cooking. When the meat is done, add 2 stock cubes and cook for 5 minutes.
Add the pepper and ground crayfish and cook for 10 minutes. Add the cocoyam paste in small lumps and then the palm oil.
Cover the pot and leave to cook on high heat till all the cocoyam lumps have dissolved. You can add more water if you feel that the soup is too thick.
Add the oha leaves and leave to cook for about 5 minutes.
Add salt to taste, stir and the soup is ready!

Serve with Garri (Eba), Semolina Fufu, Amala, Cassava Fufuor Pounded Yam.

June 9, 2018 0 comment

DIY

YOUR KITCHEN: 6 easy but delicious meal ideas for Easter

by adminV March 31, 2018

written by adminV

Nigerian cow leg (Bokoto) pepper soup recipe
Photo Credit:wivestownhallconnection.com

Nigerian cow leg (Bokoto) pepper soup
Who does not like the savoury and spicy taste of pepper soup? It is a huge staple and it also serves as an appetizer for Nigerian parties.
It is made with cow leg cut into small pieces, ginger, scent leaves, ground fresh pepper, water and seasoning. See the recipe HERE

Gizdodo
photo credit-dobbyssignature

Gizdodo
Apparently, many of us must have been hearing about Gizdodo or gizzdo and wonder what it is!
Gizdodo is actually a combination of gizzards and fried plantain (known as dodo in Nigeria).It’s no news that a lot of people love plantain and gizzard also isn’t a bad kind of meat. So, already, you can imagine what result this recipe would give. See the recipe HERE

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Smoothie
We will be looking at the tasty and nutritious freshly made
strawberry banana smoothie. Strawberries are among the most popular berries consumed worldwide and their health advantage can’t be overemphasised when it comes to regulation of blood sugar, provision of key antioxidants and anti-inflammatory nutrients, among others.
Bananas, on the other hand, are among the most affordable and widely consumed fruits worldwide. They are highly rich in vitamins, minerals and fibre.
These fruity combinations; strawberry banana smoothies could be made in less than 10minutes and are best served as breakfast or served chilled while it’s sunny. See the recipe HERE

Nigerian pancake
Pancakes are quite versatile as some like theirs plain and some others prefer theirs with the added condiments, which always gives the quick meal a nice distinct taste. See the recipe HERE

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Efo Riro
“Efo Riro” is a Yoruba word which simply means “Vegetable soup” and it’s enjoyed by many. This is because it’s really versatile and could be eaten with meals such as Rice, Pounded Yam and any type of Swallow. See the recipe HERE

Nigerian Jollof
photo credit-allnigerianrecipes

Nigerian Jollof Rice
Nigerian Jollof Rice is the most popular Nigerian rice recipe and a favourite both for family dinners and at parties.
Jollof rice actually has its origins in Senegal, from the Wolof ethnic group and it spread across West Africa. See the recipe HERE

Have a good Easter, what will be on your menu?

March 31, 2018 13 comments

DIY

Natural hair care is easier than you think

by adminV March 15, 2018

written by adminV

The natural hair movement swept into our country in the early 2000s in waves facilitated by the internet. This development is good, seeing as it is our identity, heritage and part of a healthier lifestyle choice. Now, more ladies are transitioning into their naturally kinky locks instead of opting for chemical relaxing.

Many naturalistas, however, are frustrated at the rate of their hair growth and are struggling with hair care. This has led to many succumbing to hair straighteners and the damning verdict: natural hair is too stressful.

But taking care of your natural hair is much easier than you think. For it to grow and flourish, you need to take a couple of things into account.

The novelty

We’re new to something that should be instinctual to us. Majority of us grew up thinking that the kinky, tightly coiled “undergrowth” at the root of our relaxed hair was the enemy. Decades of following western beauty standards raised a generation of women who did not know the first thing to do with their own hair.

So when you decide to go back to your roots, don’t expect to get the hang of it in one day or a year. It will take months of learning to find the rhythm that works for you.

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Genetics and hair type

Tear your eyes away from the flowing tresses and awe-inspiring afros of your Instagram hair crushes and give your own hair room to breathe. Every hair of the head is different.

From years of observation and practice, natural hair types have been divided into four broad texture types: one, two, three and four. Most Africans fall between types three and four, which also have subtypes.

There are simple quizzes online to know your hair type’s unique needs. 4c hair, for example, is the kinkiest hair texture and thrives on lots of moisture and protein. It is also prone to extreme shrinkage, which makes it look much shorter than it really is when dry. People who have not embraced their 4c roots will keep fighting with their hair. Stop! Your hair is not hard and not growing, it just needs a tender hand.

Genetics also plays a role here, because hair grows at different rates based on your genetic code. Some women have fast growing hair, some don’t.

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Time

A girl on Instagram’s “three months growth” may look like yours at two years. You need to relax before you jump to buy yet another set of products that you don’t need.

Give your hair some time. Look away from the progress of others and, instead, celebrate the little milestones of your own success. Compared to theirs it may seem meagre, but, by itself, it is a huge accomplishment.

Love your hair

It is beautiful, glorious and versatile. It is worthy of the time and care you put into it every day. It will reward you with a bouncy afro that is yours alone and reflects your truest self as a beautiful black woman.

Culled from Guardian

March 15, 2018 20 comments

DIY

11 ways to get rid of yellow colouration in your teeth

by adminV March 11, 2018

written by adminV

First of all the facts on yellow teeth as provided by MedicalNewsToday:
*As the enamel on teeth wears, the yellowish dentin underneath starts to show through.
*An easy way of reducing discoloration of the teeth is to brush them frequently.

*As people age, their teeth will naturally become slightly discoloured.

11 ways to get rid of yellow teeth

Here are 11 ways that may help to get rid of yellow teeth at home. These are an alternative to teeth whitening options that a dentist may offer.

1. Brushing frequently
There are various teeth whitening options that can be tried at home or offered by dentists.
This is most important after consuming food or drink that may discolor the teeth, such as:
Here are some tooth brushing, best practice tips:

*brush two to three times a day

*brush for 2 to 3 minutes at a time

*be sure to brush every surface of each tooth

*make circular motions when brushing

*avoid brushing the gums or brush them very gently

*be sure to reach the teeth at the back of the mouth

2. Whitening toothpaste

Whitening toothpaste may help reduce yellowing of the teeth and improve whiteness. These products contain stronger ingredients than standard toothpaste, helping to remove tough food stains.

Whitening toothpaste does not contain bleach but may contain a small amount of carbamide peroxide or hydrogen peroxide. These chemicals help to lighten tooth color.

According to a 2014 study, whitening toothpaste typically lightens tooth color by one or two shades.

3. Tray-based tooth whiteners

Some dentists offer tray-based tooth whitening, but home versions are also available over-the-counter. Tray-based tooth whiteners can lighten the teeth by one or two shades.

This tooth whitening method involves wearing a fitted tray over the teeth. The tray contains a bleaching gel and is worn for 2 to 4 hours a day or overnight.

It is important to look for products that contain 10 percent carbamide peroxide. These are recommended as safe by the American Dental Association (ADA).

4. Whitening strips

Whitening strips deliver a thin layer of peroxide gel on plastic strips. These are shaped to fit onto the surface of the teeth.

There is a range of whitening strip products available online and instructions for them vary. Most suggest they should be applied twice a day for 30 minutes.

Strips can lighten the teeth by one or two shades. That said, a 2016 study notes there is no evidence whitening strips are any more effective than 10 percent carbamide peroxide gel. The use of carbamide peroxide gel is the ADA recommended method.

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5. Whitening rinses

Whitening rinses are another way to get rid of yellow teeth. They contain oxygen sources such as hydrogen peroxide. These react with the compounds staining the teeth, helping to lift them.

Using a rinse twice a day for 1 minute at a time can lead to a one to two shade improvement in tooth color within 3 months.

6. Activated charcoal

Toothpaste that contains activated charcoal may help to reduce staining on the teeth.

A 2017 review found that charcoal toothpaste may help remove external staining on teeth. Further studies are needed into the extent or rate of stain removal that can be expected.

Charcoal toothpaste should be used with caution, as they can cause staining. The charcoal may be hard to remove from the crevices of the teeth and around restorations.

7. Baking soda and hydrogen peroxide

Using a toothpaste containing baking soda and hydrogen peroxide may help reduce yellowing of the teeth. It is possible to make a paste at home by mixing 1 tablespoon of baking soda with 2 tablespoons of hydrogen peroxide.

A 2012 study found that using a toothpaste containing baking soda and hydrogen peroxide reduces tooth staining and improves whiteness.

8. Vitamin C

A 2007 study found that vitamin C deficiency may worsen peridontitis, which is a buildup of bacteria on the teeth and gums. This buildup contributes to discolouration.

It follows that keeping topped up on vitamin C may reduce discolouration of the teeth. More research is needed into whether vitamin C consumption may have a whitening effect on the teeth.

9. Fruit enzymes

When added to toothpaste, certain fruit enzymes may combat discolouration.

A 2012 study found toothpaste that contains papain enzyme from the papaya fruit and bromelain enzyme from pineapples helps remove tooth stains.

10. Apple cider vinegar

When it is used in small quantities, apple cider vinegar may reduce staining on the teeth and improve whiteness.

A 2014 study found that apple cider vinegar has a whitening effect on teeth. It should be noted, however, that this was a study on animals.

Apple cider vinegar may damage the surface of the teeth if used too often. More research is needed into the use of apple cider vinegar, as a tooth whitener. In the meantime, it should be used sparingly and with caution.

11. Coconut oil pulling

A 2015 study found that oil pulling or swishing in the mouth with coconut oil could be an effective way to reduce plaque buildup on the teeth. As plaque buildup can contribute to yellowing, it follows that coconut oil pulling may reduce discoloration.

More research is needed into coconut oil pulling to establish the extent to which it may help whiten the teeth.

Culled NAN

March 11, 2018 4 comments

DIY

YOUR KITCHEN: What you never knew about ‘Wara’

by adminV March 10, 2018

written by adminV

Fried Wara

Nigerian Wara is traditionally made by adding a coagulant called bomubomu in the Yoruba language, to fresh boiling cow’s milk. The Coagulated milk protein and whey (the liquid remaining after milk has been curdled and strained). This milk protein is, however, skimmed off from the whey and sold as Wara.

It turns out that these cute basket moulds are what give Wara its classic, ridged cone shape.

Here are some facts you never knew about the locally made Wara:

Wara is not cheese. It is milk curds achieved by adding a coagulant to fresh milk whereas Cheese is achieved through a process of ageing pressed milk curd. You can call it a local Tofu.

Wara is not a product of fermentation. It is made by boiling milk with some added coagulant to curdle the milk protein.

Wara is very high in protein and therefore really healthy and a good alternative to meat or fish.

March 10, 2018 10 comments

DIY

Simple ways to care for your makeup brushes

by adminV March 10, 2018

written by adminV

Cleaning your make up brushes should be a regular habit. Makeup brushes that are used for a while without cleaning can attract dust, bacteria, dirt and other unhygienic particles that are not are not face friendly especially zits.

Fortunately, there are brush shampoos available in the market. However, they can be pricey sometimes but your brushes need to be pampered if they are going to continue doing all that work on your face (don’t you think?).

To avoid giving your bank account a drawback here is an easy way clean your brushes recommended by Njideka Agbo. Good thing is, you have the ingredients in your house:

Pour a teaspoon of liquid soap or mild shampoo on a plate and add ½ of a table teaspoon of your olive oil.
Rub your makeup brush in the plate. Some of the residues will start to come off.
Rub the makeup brush on a smooth surface or your hand until the makeup completely comes off.
Wash with warm water.
Pat dry and hang with the bristles facing down so that the water can drip off and dry.

March 10, 2018 18 comments

DIY

Aloe vera, a quick fix for acne-prone faces

by adminV March 4, 2018

written by adminV

Aloe vera is one of the most popular home remedies to help cure and prevent acne scars.

Its powerful anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties help to treat pimples, scars and skin damage.

The plant is believed to have originated in Northern Africa, Madagascar, and the Arabian Peninsula. The succulent plant stores water in its leaves, stems, and roots which give it a fleshy appearance.

It is used as an active ingredient in moisturizers, face washes, soaps, and sunscreen lotions due to its moisturising, curative, and calming properties.

It is also believed that Egyptian Queen Cleopatra used aloe vera gel as a part of her beauty regime.

Instructions:

Cut off 2 – 3 stems of aloe vera and peel off the skin to expose the transparent gel.
Blend the gel till you have a smooth consistency.
You can optionally add a few drops or honey or tea tree oil.
Store it in a plastic container in your fridge to prevent it from drying up.
Apply the gel generously over your face and neck and wait thirty minutes or more for it to dry.
Wash off with warm water.
Repeat the process daily (more conveniently before a shower).

Continue to use the gel even after your face has cleared up to prevent future break out.

Source: TheCable

March 4, 2018 12 comments

DIY

Want to create the perfect smokey eye? Here’s how

by adminV March 3, 2018

written by adminV

Creating a smokey eye is one of the hardest beauty things to do. It takes a lot of practice and repetition to perfect, and it definitely helps to know what you are doing.

Here are some tips to help you create a smokey eye.

Use a natural hair brush to pick up an eyeshadow and starting from the outer crease area, blend your way in to stop in the middle of your whole crease, this creates a faded look. (PS: don’t use a synthetic hair brush, this tends to pick up an eyeshadow in a larger quantity which will mess up your look.)
Leave your inner crease free of eyeshadow to accentuate your outer crease.
Taking a darker shade of your initial colour, create a blend over you lower outer crease.
Using a free brush blend over your entire crease area, this fades and creates a more diluted smokey eye, creating a more grungy and edgy look, and makes you look good without looking like you tried.
Using a translucent powder, create a blend from the outer edge of your eye to the out edge of your brown, this makes your smokey eye more intensified.
Be sure to dust off specs of eyeshadow from your lashes before applying mascara.
You can apply darker shades of your eyeshadow as many times as you want to really make your look pop to your satisfaction.

Source: Guardian

March 3, 2018 19 comments

DIY

Charcoal Wonder! Activate clear skin with activated charcoal

by adminV March 3, 2018

written by adminV

If you have been to beauty stores lately, you’d notice that Activated Charcoal(AC) is the exclusive new ingredient in beauty products. This ingredient has generated a lot of buzz in and off social media.

The myth is true: Charcoal is more than an end product.

Charcoal use dates back to ancient times when it was used as an emergency anti-poison agent, to treat bug bites and minor infections. It is of little wonder that millennials have decided to embrace charcoal to treat some of their skin problems. Only this time, it is activated charcoal.

Unlike charcoal which can be made from almost any burnt wood or coal, Activated Charcoal, also known as activated carbon, is mostly gotten from coconut husks and wood sawdust. What makes it different from the regular charcoal is that it is heated up to higher degrees so that its surface level is larger and more absorbent.

What makes this unique charcoal stand out is that it can be used as a regular beauty regimen. Like regular charcoal, AC acts as a magnetic force to draw out toxins to itself. When applied to your skin, this natural product, will draw out blackheads, absorb all bacteria, microparticles, and other impurities to itself.

This all-in-one ingredient’s advantages are many. Not only does it remove toxins from your hair, it makes your teeth white, causes your pores to appear smaller, it strips off your excess oil, treats your acne, purifies, detoxifies and brightens your skin.

Due to its high capacity, beauticians recommend that you use just a little so it doesn’t irritate the skin. Be it an AC soap, cleanser, facial mask, always remember to use a toner immediately after use.

Source: Guardian

March 3, 2018 12 comments

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