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Month: October 2018

  • 7 Signs and Symptoms of Addiction

    7 Signs and Symptoms of Addiction

    When you discover that a friend or family member has a problem with drugs or alcohol, it often comes as a huge surprise to you. But secrecy is the drug on which addiction thrives, so it’s not really that odd that you were in the dark.

    Addiction grows worse over a sustained period of time, and there are some indicators that may give you an idea something is wrong with your loved one before the bottom falls out.  Here are the 7 signs and symptoms of addiction you should look for if you suspect someone you love has a problem with drugs or alcohol.

    7. Change in Behavior

    As people’s addictions get bigger, their lives start to change and the things that they value the most begin to fall away. Depression sets in, and suddenly they stop doing activities or hobbies that they once loved, or maybe their mood becomes erratic. An example of a change in behavior that’s worth noting would be when a person who values health and fitness abruptly stops exercising or eating well.

    6. Change in Friends

    This sign isn’t always the easiest area to recognize, because it’s fairly normal for friendships to fade and new people come into our lives. But when normally social people stop hanging around with their usual group of friends with no explanation, it’s important to take notice — especially if there wasn’t an event that precipitated the change. Or, maybe there’s a new person in their life that just doesn’t seem to be someone they would normally be friends with. This can be a telltale sign that something funky is going on.

    5. Job/Career Issues

    When addiction takes hold, inevitably some issues are going to come up at work or school. Over time, addicts becomes less capable of hiding performance flaws in areas of their lives that are under the microscope. If a normally responsible person is missing deadlines or not following through on commitments, this could be an indicator that something’s up.

    4. Legal Issues

    Addiction is likely to create a bevy of legal issues that are going to make it hard to ignore that something is going on. A DUI or getting thrown in the clink for a drunk and disorderly is an obvious tell that your loved one’s judgment is off. But there are also less obvious signs, like doctor shopping or frequenting ER rooms. And addicts can justify their behavior so that they make you feel foolish for asking why they have so many doctor appointments. But if you think something’s wrong, go ahead and ask anyway.

    3. Family Strain

    Relationships with family are often jeopardized when people develop an affinity for drugs or alcohol. Early on, it may reveal itself in behaviors like retreating to their room after work or spending too much time with their face in the computer, playing games or surfing the Web. Communications become strained, and the addict stops showing up to family engagements, or maybe even to dinner. If you feel a substantial shift in your relationship with a family member, you should start asking questions.

    2. Physical Changes

    Extreme physical changes are a big indicator of a problem. Maybe they’re getting scraggly and smelly because they’ve stopped grooming or showering.  A noticeable weight loss or gain can be a symptom, and the same goes for a change in eating and sleeping habits. For example, crystal meth addicts can stay up for days, then crash and sleep for days. When they eat, they’re likely to ravenously consume sugary foods.

    1. Personality Changes

    In an adult brain, defined as a brain that’s 24 years or older, there are really only three things that are likely to cause a profound personality change in someone. Substance abuse or chemical dependency, mental illness and or a physical ailment, such as a brain tumor are the three things that can cause a profound personality change. Mind you, this isn’t the same as watching a person get a little down in the dumps, or go through a period of anxiety. Profound personality changes are much more extreme. If you witness this, it’s advised to reach out to a professional for guidance and counseling on how to address your loved one.


  • Best Medicare Supplemental Insurance

    Best Medicare Supplemental Insurance

    If you rely on Medicare for your health care, you might have found that Medicare doesn’t cover everything. For those on a fixed income, it can be extremely difficult to afford medication or any additional health care costs not covered by Medicare.

    If you are in a difficult situation where the health care bills are piling up, consider Medicare Supplemental Insurance. Medicare Supplemental Insurance is insurance that can help cover what Medicare doesn’t. We analyzed several plans with our experts and today we are breaking down the Best Medicare Supplemental Insurance!

    Best Medicare Supplemental Insurance

    Information About Supplemental Insurance

    An important note: in order to get supplemental insurance, you must have both Medicare Part A and Medicare Part B. Part A covers inpatient, and Part B covers outpatient care. Anoter factor to consider is Supplemental insurance only covers one person. Additionally, as long as you’re paying your premiums, Medicare supplemental  insurance can’t drop you, no matter what medical issues you may begin to suffer from.

    Supplemental insurance won’t always cover everything Medicare doesn’t.  Supplemental insurance is not going to cover all expenses. Things like vision, dental, prescriptions, long term care and private nursing are also not typically covered. Finally,  supplemental insurance must be acquired within the first sixth months of you turning 65 and you must already be on Medicare to qualify.

    United Healthcare Insurance Company

    The United Healthcare Insurance Company is endorsed by the AARP, and for good reason. This company offers a great deal of benefits for those on Medicare. They have a 94 percent user satisfaction, which is stellar. They also offer coverage that can be combined with a Medicare Part D plan. Those with this policy can visit any doctor that accepts Medicare! United Healthcare allows you to choose from a wide variety of plans, coverage, deductibles and benefits so you have coverage to fit your health needs and your financial situation.

    State Farm

    State Farm is another option for supplemental insurance. State Farm Medicare Supplement Insurance is designed to cover the gaps in Medicare, helping to pay deductibles, coinsurance and copayment amounts not covered by Medicare. State Farm also provides you the flexibility to choose between different plans to meet your individual needs and budget. They are a well-respected agency and are renowned for their high customer satisfaction ratings “Like a Good Neighbor, State Farm is There” tagline is very true. State Farm insurance might be able to cover hospital or medical services your Medicare won’t pay for as well.

    Humana

    Humana offers Medicare supplemental insurance that covers Medicare Part A and B. Humana’s policy covers coinsurance for medical expenses, co pays, hospice care and hospitalization, skilled nursing facility care, and blood work. Additionally, the Humana plan also covers copayments for outpatient services. Remember, this is in addition to your Medicare coverage, so getting this extra coverage could save you a lot of money when you have expensive outpatient services. Particularly if you have frequent doctor’s visits, you may find yourself saving a ton with this supplementary policy.


  • Best Ways to Check Credit Score

    Best Ways to Check Credit Score

    If you’re looking to make a big purchase, like a car or a house, odds are you’re going to need a loan. The way lenders check to see if you’re eligible for that loan, of course, is your credit score. If you often pay bills on time and are financially secure, your score should be high but you should regularly check your score.

    Grab hold of your financial potential with free information about your credit score. Knowing your credit score is important because it helps you decide what your buying power is and what areas to focus on to improve this important score.

    There are many factors that go into determining a credit score, including employment status, credit history, and financial consistency. There are also several different types of credit scores rather than a standard way to measure creditworthiness. Although banks and lenders may have their own method to determine a credit score, there are ways that general consumers can monitor their credit activity and keep on top of the score as it changes over the years.

    If you’re looking to check your credit score you’ll want to do it for free. That’s where these free credit check sites come in!

    Best Free Credit Reports

    Credit.com

    Credit.com allows you to see your Experian and VantageScore results for free. VantageScore is a newer model of credit scoring that is usually more up-to-date than the traditional FICO score. You have to sign up for an account with Credit.com, but it’s a free process. The site is known for its credit report card, a quick glance at which things go into your credit. This way, you can see what factors you may need to address to get your score higher!

    Credit Karma

    Credit Karma has become the most popular of the free credit monitoring sites for many reasons. You’ve likely heard of this one. Credit Karma offers scores from TransUnion and Equifax, and both are shown as VantageScore. Credit Karma is a free site as well, and they don’t share customer information. If you’re looking for a no-frills credit check, you’re looking for Credit Karma. They offer a great mobile app, too.

    Quizzle

    Since 2008, Quizzle has been helping its customers understand their credit history and providing free access to their full credit report and credit score. Quizzle offers free Equifax and VantageScore reports. Once every three months you can see a free report of your score. Quizzle technically has a premium account too, though you’re better off just using the free functions. The free functionality doesn’t require a credit card, too.

    WalletHub

    WalletHub offers personal financial tools to users online. Their main product is offering a free daily credit score and report associated with it. WalletHub requires you to take a pre-screening questionnaire before you get your free score. Once you answer a few basic questions, such as your income and the last four digits of your Social, you get a TransUnion credit score. The report is similar to Credit.com’s credit report card, showing you what factors influence your score the most.


  • Top Dog Food Brands

    Top Dog Food Brands

    Dogs rely on their owners for lots of things. They need love, they need shelter, they need to be cared for. But most importantly, they need to be fed! Most experts recommend feeding your dog twice a day — once in the morning and once in the evening.

    What they don’t say is what to feed them. That’s where choosing the right dog food comes in. It’s important to take your time deciding on the best dog food for your pup because it is not recommended to change dog foods like humans do. Dogs need consistency and switching them to new foods can be a tricky business.

    There are a ton of dog food brands and they range from pennies to big bucks for high quality top shelf dog food. Does your pup know the difference between the high end premium dog foods and the regular? Is there a difference? There are many features to consider here. Taste, texture, and nutritional value should all be coming to mind. Dogs need the types of pet food that they’ll want to eat, of course, but they also need sustenance that will help give them energy and strength.

    Many dog foods today are manufactured with generic ingredients that aren’t the healthiest for your pup. That’s why doing your research really matters when it comes to making the right choice. So let’s take a look at the top 3 dog food brands for that special friend in your life.

    1. I and Love and You

    The best dog foods contain real foods, like vegetables and meats with Veggies like sweet potato, peas, and tomatoes provide vast nutrients for pets. Even protein such as salmon, white meat chicken, and lamb can be found in some of the best dog food today, I and Love and You. Not to mention the clever use of an Avett Bros song title, it is the highest quality, affordable, and most enjoyed by your dog. It’s great and your pup deserves it.

    2. Rachel Rays Just 6

    With lots of variety, tons of high quality ingredients and grain free, Rachel Rays just 6 is great mid priced option. If your four legged friends suffers from food allergies, this is the best dog food to easily and efficiently manage your dogs diet. With just 6 ingredients in each bag you can easily identify and eliminate the allergens. This is also my consigliere and questionable sushi tester Sam’s absolute favorite.

    3. Nature’s Recipe Dog Food

    Nature’s Recipe has a wide range of products featuring chicken, salmon, turkey, beef, venison, and lamb. They also have vegetarian and grain-free dog foods. They produce foods for puppies, seniors, adult dogs, large breed puppies, and for many dogs with special needs such as skin conditions, digestion problems, small breeds, and weight control. Their food comes in both canned and dry kibble forms. Again we are seeing a trend, grain free. No one does grain free better than Nature’s Recipe Dog Food.

    Bonus: Newman’s Own

    Paul Newman, the man, the myth, the legend, and the fantastic dog food. Much like everything coming from Newman’s Own brand it is a terrific dog food that your little guy will love. Oh Paul, to be like you and walk the path, to lend a hand, and make some wonderful dog food.

    The Final Thought

    Some of the best dog foods contain real foods, like vegetables and meats we would eat ourselves in order to have a balanced meal. Veggies like sweet potato, peas, and tomatoes provide vast nutrients for pets. Even protein such as salmon, white meat chicken, and lamb can be found in some of the best dog foods today. These days, pet food makers are making a conscious effort to shift toward organics, grain-free foods, and unique formulas packed with healthy proteins and fiber. Dog food comes in many different shapes and sizes. There’s dry food, dehydrated raw food and canned food. Do your research and find the best option for your dog!


  • Cool Ideas for Bathroom Remodeling

    Cool Ideas for Bathroom Remodeling

    Bathroom remodeling can seem overwhelming at first, but it’s a fantastic investment that is worth the time and effort. Not only will your home value go up, you will also have the satisfaction of enjoying a modern beautifully renovated bathroom.

    There are many options when it comes to updating bathrooms, including flooring, lighting, vanities, sinks, mirrors, bathtubs, showers, mirrors, and accessories. If you’ve been holding out to find good ideas for bathroom remodeling, you’ve come to the right place. Today, we’re looking at some cool ideas you can remodel your bathroom on a budget!

    Bathroom Remodeling Ideas

    Floors and Tiles

    Redoing the floors of an older bathroom can make a huge difference and make your bathroom look brand new. There are many different kinds of tiles on the market, and homeowners can customize tile patterns to fit their styles.

    Similarly, if you’ve got counter or shower tiles that need replacing, doing the project as a whole can help keep costs down. Bath and shower tiles that are now on the market are made to prevent mold and can be easily cleaned. Light-colored tiles can help smaller bathrooms appear larger, and floor tiles that are placed diagonally provide a more elegant look. Decorative tiles can be placed as accents or backsplashes on the vanity, which can help to tie the whole room together.

    Something as simple as  new tiles in the bathroom can go a long way to making it look like a different room! This simple, relatively affordable step can help increase home value significantly, too.

    Heated Floors

    Have you ever gotten out of a warm shower in the Winter and found yourself shivering? If you have, consider getting heated floors installed when you remodel!  Installing heated floors are one of the most luxurious and innovative bathroom remodeling ideas.

    The installation of heated floors is simpler than you think. Radiant floor heating comes the form of mats that are placed under bathroom floor tile. A template of a bathroom floor is sent to a radiant floor heating provider, who then makes the mat to specific size. An electrician needs to install the mat, which can then be covered by marble or tile.

    The heated floor is then controlled by a thermostat, and you can usually set timers to control how long it stays on! This is a great way to keep your feet warm in the winter, especially if your home has hardwood floors. This project can coincide with redoing your floors and tiles!

    High-Efficiency Toilets and New Faucets

    While not typically considered “beautiful,” replacing toilets and faucets can add a lot of beauty and value to a home. Definitely consider remodeling your bathroom with new, high-efficiency toilet.  New high-efficiency dual-flush toilets use less water than traditional toilets, allowing homeowners to conserve precious water. Made using a one-piece design and skirted around the base, newer models of toilets are also much easier to install and clean. Many of these toilets come with rebates because they are higher in efficiency.

    Faucets also add style with minimal cost. Made of new materials like bamboo and stainless steel, these sleek and updated faucets can make a big difference in a bathroom remodel, adding beauty and style to a room badly in need of updating. Homeowners can add a stylish new faucet to a vanity and a granite countertop, automatically upgrading the appearance and value of a bathroom.

    Final Thoughts

    Before getting started, an essential consideration for consumers includes setting budgetary limits on bathroom remodeling projects. If homeowners rush into remodeling bathrooms without setting realistic budgets, they can end up running out of money and left with partially completed projects or disappointing results. Homeowners need to take some time to prioritize the most important aspects of their bathroom remodel, whether these include new flooring, lighting, vanities, or toilets. It is important for homeowners to carefully plan their bathroom remodels to make the most of their money and increase the overall value of their homes.


  • FIND AARP DENTAL PLANS

    FIND AARP DENTAL PLANS

    As a newly retired senior, you’re probably exploring all of your dental options. Dental coverage is still important as a senior. In fact, seniors are often more prone to dental problems.

    With costs skyrocketing and incomes remaining fixed for seniors, affording the routine and emergency dental care you need is becoming increasingly burdensome. Luckily, new options for dental discounts for seniors have become available.

    What Should Your Senior Dental Plan Cover?

    As you’re looking for a dental plan to provide you with affordable dental care, consider these common senior dental problems so you know what your plan should cover or discount.

    Common Senior Dental Problems
    • Gum disease
    • Darkened teeth
    • Root decay
    • Diminished sense of taste
    • Dry mouth
    • Loss of teeth
    • Uneven jawbone
    • Tissue inflammation with dentures
    • Oral cancer
    • Thrush

    Whether you’ve encountered these dental problems yet or not, finding a dental plan that addresses these treatments is good preparation for what may be to come.

    The Truth About Medicare Dental Coverage

    Medicare does not cover routine dental care for adults 65 and over. By law, Medicare is prohibited from paying for cleanings, fillings, crowns, dentures, and most other dental work. Although there are a few exceptions, you will never be able to look to Medicare as a source of dental insurance for seniors. Fortunately, there are other senior dental plan options to consider.

    AARP Plans

    Seniors who belong to the AARP can find exclusive dental insurance offers to get through their golden years with strong, pain-free mouths. AARP dental insurance gives you access to the most knowledgeable and thorough providers, giving you the confidence, you need to get those routine checkups done and uncomfortable procedures finished with dignity and convenience. Maintaining good dental health is just one more thing seniors can do to be more independent and live more comfortably. With AARP, you have the option to choose between PPOs, prepaid dental plans, and discount plans. To learn more about the best options for seniors, read on to learn more about AARP dental insurance.

    PPO Plans

    PPOs, also known as preferred provider organizations, give you a lot of freedom when it comes to choosing your own provider. While your dental professional of choice will most likely be covered under your PPO plan, you will receive even greater discounts and copay rates if you select a provider within the PPOs particular network. With a PPO’s in-network provider, you’ll know ahead of time how much you’ll have to pay out of pocket for your various dental needs, such as routine cleanings, X-rays, cavity fillings, root canals, and crowns. The contract the provider signed with the PPO will ensure that you never get scammed by a dentist or have to pay more than you expected.

    HMO Plans

    Prepaid dental plans are more commonly known as HMOs. HMOs are a little bit more restricting, but they do tend to be more affordable. With an HMO, you choose your dentist and all dental care will be coordinated through that specific dentist. For example, if you need to see an oral surgeon, your dentist will refer you and fill out any potential preauthorizations that need to be addressed before your insurance will cover it. You can choose a specific dental clinic as well, allowing you to see any dentist or specialist within the clinic without requiring a preauthorization.

    Convenient Plans

    Discount plans are rarely the most affordable, but they can be the most convenient for you if you have the money. These plans are technically not insurance. Instead, these “plans” offer you serious discounts on services and you pay out of pocket. These plans can offer discounts on any kind of dental work you may require, from cleanings to crowns. However, what you save in monthly premiums could be spent on expensive dental treatment if the work required on your teeth or gums is extensive. AARP dental insurance plans are to make sure that you save money.
    For seniors, one of the hardest aspects of growing older is the loss of function or strength. While most people immediately think of the body, many people forget that the mouth is arguably the most important part of the body. Dental hygiene and maintenance is absolutely essential not only when it comes to extending your life but also to maintaining or increasing your quality of life. Many people think of the senior caricature of needing dentures or missing teeth. The truth is, many seniors don’t lose their teeth, or even if they do, they don’t lose enough to need full dentures. To avoid such cliche deterioration in your mouth and jaw, you need quality dental insurance.


  • Why Should You Get a 2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee?

    Why Should You Get a 2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee?

    The 2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee is a vehicle that demands your attention. The top-selling Jeep Grand Cherokee has an upscale, comfortable, look and feel. It offers comfortable seating for up to five adults. The powertrains are fast and its an extremely versatile car, suitable for everyday use, family use, off-road driving, and anything in between.

    It is not very big on fuel economy, and the cost is slightly higher than you would expect. However, the Jeep’s performance and style make it a worthy purchase. The Jeep features 20-inch wheels. The cabin is made of high-quality material for all the trim levels. There are plenty of engine options with an eight-speed automatic.

    The Jeep’s rear-wheel drive is standard, and most of the trims will have four-wheel drive. Its base trim includes a powerful engine and comfort features such as two USB charging ports, leather wrapping on the steering wheel, Android Auto compatibility, and more. Safety features include automatic emergency braking. But these are just a few of the features offered by the new Jeep Grand Cherokee. If you’re in the market for a great, versatile vehicle, the Jeep Grand Cherokee is the one for you!

    2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee

    Design

    The classic Jeep body is here even if it is tempered by some softer design choices. This is a modern-looking Jeep, through and through, sporting soft lines and a boxy design that wouldn’t gel under other circumstances. In this case, though, the design is oddly appealing. We really like the modernized look, as it suggests the modern touches inside and under the hood.

    Luxury at All Trims

    Even the lowest trims, like the Laredo, Limited and Trailhawk are loaded with features that can be described only as luxurious. The engine is a 295 horsepower V6 at all of these levels and performs well in a multitude of scenarios. Whether you’re wanting the vehicle as a family car, an SUV or for off-roading, it won’t disappoint. The ride is smooth and quiet, the seats are incredibly comfortable and the speakers sound great.

    Some of the higher trim options start to offer some serious luxury, though. For instance, the Overland trim level includes heated seat in the first and second rows as well as a better speaker system. At the SRT trim the engine is upgraded to a 475 horsepower V8 beast that can handle all kinds of terrain. Even more impressive is the Trackhawk’s 707 horsepower V8 that takes off like a jet. From the powerful, intimidating look to the excellent performance, and luxury appointments, the vehicle is set to be a hit. You can get more luxury appointments by spending extra to get the mid-level to high trims.

    Rugged and Luxurious at Once

    It’s not often you find a vehicle that strikes the balance between being a rugged off-roading beast and a good family SUV. The 2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee is such a vehicle, striking that fine balance. The high-quality make and powerful engine make it great for all kinds of rugged adventuring. Meanwhile, the comfortable and luxurious interior make you forget just how mean of a vehicle you’re in!

    Pricing

    The different trims are available at different prices. The starting price for the Laredo is about $31, 695, the Limited starts at about $38,945, the Trailhawk starts at about $44,045, and the Overland’s starting price is $45,745. The Summit, SRT, and Trackhawk are the most expensive trims. The Trackhawk is the most costly at about $86,650. The SRT is the second most expensive at about $68,145. The starting price of the Summit trim is $51,445.

    The 2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee may be costly, but it gives you value for your money. From the powerful, intimidating look to the excellent performance, and luxury appointments, the vehicle is set to be a hit. You can get more luxury appointments by spending extra to get the mid-level to high trims.That means you’ve got choices from affordable luxury up to full-on luxury vehicle!


  • Best Facial Cleansers For Each Skin Type

    Best Facial Cleansers For Each Skin Type

    There is no universal “perfect cleanser,” because different types require different formulas. We cover dry skin, oily skin, and everything in between. 

    The folks at Goodfind Guru have put together a comprehensive list of some of the most beloved and effective cleansers on the market for every skin type.

    Every single step of your skin care regimen should be reflected by your skin type and skin care concerns. If you’re going to use rich and emollient moisturizers on oily skin and lightweight lotions on dry skin then you’re going to run into problems. Cleansing is no exception and whilst we all want that squeaky clean feeling, not every cleanser suits all.

    Cleansers are there to rid your skin of any impurities, including makeup, dead skin cells, grime, pollution, product build-up, and excess oils. Due to the cleaning effect on skin, some cleansers can be drying and it’s important you choose a cleanser to match your skin type, especially if you have sensitive or dry skin. Cleansers can also add extra nourishment to your skin, so some ultra-rich cleansers for dry skin may be too heavy for oilier complexions.

    We’ve got the rundown on all the best cleansers, so no matter your skin type, you can make sure that you’re giving your skin exactly what it needs whilst maintaining a cleansed complexion.

    Oily Skin
    Indicators: Large, visible pores and a greasy sheen that develops quickly after you’ve cleansed.

    What to Look for: An oil-control face wash that digs deep to purify pores (ones with charcoal are highly effective), and helps regulate oil production without leaving your face feeling dry. A formula that balances pH will also slow the growth of bacteria and help prevent breakouts.

     

    Dry Skin
    Indicators: Your skin is often itchy, flaky, or generally tight.

    What to Look for: A cleanser that clears away grime and impurities without stripping skin of its natural oils. A hydrating face wash (especially those made with glycerin or essential oils) should do the trick, and look for soap-free formulas wherever possible.

     

    Sensitive Skin
    Indicators: Your skin is often red—especially after shaving or cleansing—and prone to irritation.

    What to Look for: Cleansers with dense, creamy foams and soothing ingredients like aloe vera, willow bark, and witch hazel. Balancing pH is also important, as skin can get dry or irritated when its pH is out of whack. If possible, avoid heavily sudsy products (less creamy, more bubbly).

    Normal Skin
    Indicators: An even skin tone with no flaking, redness, or sheen, and only the occasional breakout.

    What to Look for: Honestly, just about anything—your skin isn’t picky. We recommend potent (yet non-drying) cleansers with a range of bonus perks: antiaging, toning, and hydrating ingredients are all a major plus.

     

    Combination Skin
    Indicators: An oily T-Zone (your forehead, nose, and chin) alongside drier skin on your cheeks.

    What to Look for: A formula that balances a thorough clean with a healthy dose of hydration. Like a cleanser for dry skin, it should clear away oil and grime without stripping skin of moisture. The ideal is a face wash that protects skin’s lipid barrier, locking in natural moisture while cleansing surface oil.

     

    Best cleanser for dry skin: Fresh Soy Face Cleanser

    Due to the nature of their purpose, cleansers can be incredibly drying to skin and remove a little too much, leaving skin feeling dehydrated and tight. Those with dry skin need to make sure they’re using a cleanser which is rich and nourishing, without removing any essential oils. The Fresh Soy Face Cleanser gently removes impurities from the skin without stripping it back or leaving it feeling uncomfortable. Rich in amino acids, borage seed oil, and rosewater to calm, balance, and strengthen the skin, this is the perfect choice for dry skin types.

    Best cleanser for oily skin: Clinique Take The Day Off Cleansing Oil

    If you have oily skin, you may think to avoid cleansing oils is the best way to go but actually, these lightweight cleansers are the perfect choice for oily complexions as they can dissolve excess oils like no other. In fact, anything too drying may cause your skin to produce even more oils. The Clinique Take The Day Off Cleansing Oil is one of the most effective available,, removing every scrap of makeup and every impurity to enjoy a fresher complexion in no time.

    Best cleanser for sensitive skin: REN Evercalm Gentle Cleansing Milk

    If you have a sensitive complexion, you need to be particularly careful with cleansers as the abrasive formulas can cause irritation. The REN Evercalm range has been developed with sensitive skin in mind as it helps to soothe irritation and calm redness. The range has expanded over the years and now features this stunning Gentle Cleansing Milk, a cleanser soft enough for sensitive skin types. Containing fennel seed extract to neutralize pollution and de-stress skin, omega 3 and 7 to boost hydration and calendula oil to heal skin, the Gentle Cleansing Milk has all the ingredients you need for cleansing sensitive skin.

    Best cleanser for aging skin: Peter Thomas Roth Anti-Aging Cleansing Gel

    Don’t just stop at night serums and eye creams when it comes to building your anti-aging routine, the Peter Thomas Roth Anti-Aging Cleansing Gel has extra anti-aging benefits for when you cleanse your skin. Enriched with glycolic acid, salicylic acid, fruit extracts, and white oak bark, the powerful cleanser helps to resurface skin and accelerate skin cell turnover for a brighter, smoother, and more youthful looking complexion with every cleanse.


  • 7 Ways to Fight Fall Allergies

    7 Ways to Fight Fall Allergies

    A lot of people love fall season for the crisp & cool air and the turning leaves. When you think of seasonal allergies, you may think spring. But for some people living with allergies, symptoms like a runny nose or itchy, watery eyes can be just as troublesome in the fall.

    There are many who dread the coming of Fall due to their Fall allergies. Along with cooler weather and changing foliage, weeds and other plants release pollen into the air and outdoor molds grow under fallen leaves, both of which can trigger fall allergies. Ragweed, which produces pollen from August to November, triggers allergies in as many as 23 million Americans, according to the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology.

    As days grow shorter and temperatures drop, we also spend more time indoors with the windows closed, exposing ourselves to indoor allergens, such as dust mites and indoor mold. However, even if you have severe fall allergies, you can usually manage your symptoms and get back to enjoying your life — both inside and outside. These seasonal allergy management tips can help.

    Best Ways to Fight Fall Allergies

    Check Pollen levels

    If pollen levels are high in your area, it’s best to limit your outdoor activity, especially during the morning, when pollen counts are highest. Keep your activities inside for a few days instead, if possible, to minimize your exposure to allergens during those days. You can check pollen counts at the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology’s National Allergy Bureau.

    Wear Protective Clothing

    If you do have to go outside, wear long sleeves, pants, a hat, and sunglasses to keep pollen off your skin and out of your hair and eyes. If you’re doing fall yard work like raking or mowing — which can stir up pollen and mold — wear a protective face mask.

    Dehumidifier

    You may have heard that humidifiers can help with breathing, but dehumidifiers may actually be better if you are sensitive to dust or mold. Dust mites and molds flourish in a humid environment. Using a dehumidifier to keep humidity levels in your home low can help fight mold growth. The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of American recommends keeping humidity levels below 45 percent — 35 percent is even better.

    Air Conditioner

    This is another way to help remove moisture from the air. It’s especially important to use an air conditioner in your bedroom. It’s where you spend eight or more hours each night, so it’s critical to keep it clean and pollen-free to avoid allergies. Close the windows and keep the air conditioning on.

    Change Air Filters Often

    The first thing you should do is invest in HEPA air filters for your home. These will help keep most particulates out of your home! Additionally, make sure you change the filter out regularly to keep it from becoming compromised. This should cut down on airborne allergens in your house.

    Medical Treatments

    If your allergies prove a severe detriment, consider contacting your primary physician or an allergist. They can recommend different treatments to attempt to alleviate your symptoms. Examples of medical remedies for allergies are topical nasal sprays like Flonase. These medicines help reduce inflammation in the nasal lining.

    Other medications that are often recommended include eye drops to help reduce itchiness. Anticongestants are also commonly used, and they are present in most nasal sprays. Many over-the-counter allergy drugs are now non-drowsy, long-lasting, and effective.

    Avoid Trigger Foods

    If you have an allergy to ragweed, you may also suffer from some related food allergies. Foods that could trigger a similar allergy response include bananas, cucumbers, sunflower and zucchini. Other foods, such as melons and chamomile tea, can also trigger similar symptoms in about a third of those with seasonal allergies.


  • Baby Formula Too Expensive? Here’s How to Save

    Baby Formula Too Expensive? Here’s How to Save

    Baby formula is prohibitively expensive. Unless you’re particularly well-off, it can be incredibly difficult to afford all the things your baby needs without some help. If you’re having a hard time finding enough to pay for baby formula, here are some easy ways to save.

    How to Save on Baby Formula

    Similac

    Similac is a formula company that offers a rewards program you can sign up for through their website. Similac’s rewards can save you a ton of money in the long run, making it worth your while if you’re trying to keep costs down. The program is called StrongMoms, and it offers points on purchases that you can translate into coupons on Similac’s formula products. This is a good way to go if you’re a fan of points-based rewards systems.

    Enfamil

    Enfamil is a top-recommended brand by pediatricians. If you’re trying to save money on formula, Enfamil is a difficult formula to recommend, as it can be so expensive. However, there is an alternative way to get formula from Enfamil without breaking the bank! It’s called the Enfamil Family Beginnings Program and it’s very easy to sign up for.

    All you need to do is sign up at their website and Enfamil will send you a package full of goodies. Not only do you get this care package, but you get sent samples and coupons for other Enfamil products. This is a great way to save some money on your baby’s formula!

    Coupon Sites

    Another good option is to go through online couponing sites to try to find deals on the top brands. Notable examples of coupon sites aimed at saving on products for infants include BabySavers and CouponMom. Both sites have rotating deals you can take advantage of, including discounts on Similac and Gerber brand baby formulas.

    Another recommendation for shoppers who use online shopping often is the Honey extension. A Chrome extension that scours for coupon codes, Honey can save a lot of money on sites like Amazon. It’s free to add to your browser, and it can’t hurt anything use it and maybe save some money!