Nail Trends for 2013

Whether you want something dark and sultry or bold and funky, you can find a new favorite nail color for the new year.

From neutral nail color to new technology, check out what's hot in nails for 2013.

Nail Techniques

French with a twist 

In 2012, we saw plenty of reverse French manicures with dark tips instead of the traditional white. For the new year, expect French manicures with a new, different twist. The sideways French manicure will be popular (a vertical split) as well as pale nails with a striking diagonal tip, half moon accent or other graphic shape in a contrasting shade.

Magnetic 

Magnetic nail color hit the scene in 2012 and will be going strong in the new year.  You can achieve a cool 3D look in an instant with magnetic nail color. Simply apply the lacquer and then hold the included magnet over each nail while the polish is wet. Add a top coat and voila! — shiny, 3D nails you'll love.

Ombre

Ombre hair color has been trendy for a couple of years now, and, in 2012, we were introduced to ombre nails. If you like this look, you are in luck because the trend will continue throughout the next year.

It looks professionally done if you have the patience for it, and all you'll need are two different shades of polish. Use a  top coat and a base coat, and find that having a makeup sponge handy can help to clean up any mess and tighten up the edges of the colors. 

• First, make sure that your hands are moisturized, clean and dry. That's the first step to any successful manicure and should be a standard practice.
• Apply your base coat and the base color. It is recommended to use two coats, depending on the polish used. This will show as the lower color on your nail, closest to the cuticle.
• Use a paper bowl to pour a small amount of the second color (the one that will appear at the tip of your nail), and dab a tiny amount on your makeup sponge. Do this slowly and carefully, never applying too much at a time. This will help to keep the mess manageable.
• This is important: Make absolutely certain that your nails are fully dry before applying the second color. Dip the makeup sponge into polish and dab the tips of your nails in quick, short strokes. Make sure to cover the end of your nail.
• The top coat becomes a blending tool with this style. It will act as a re-wetting agent to bleed the two colors together, and keep your color lasting and solid.

Nail Colors

Deep and dark

Black nail polish isn't just for Twilight fans and teenage goths. Dark nail polish is usually hot for winter, but this trend will even carry into spring this year. Dark shades we love include OPI's Suzi Skis in Pyrenees (a deep, rich blue-gray) and Essie's Licorice (a beguiling jet black cream).

Light and icy

On the other end of the spectrum, light shades of nail polish will also be trendy for the new year — especially in the springtime, of course. We like CND's Pink Lily as well as the new Zang Toi Spring Summer 2013 Collection for Zoya. This collection features three "Ice Princess" shades with subtle metallic tones of cool lilac (Julie), icy pink (Gei Gei) and shimmery yellow (Piaf).

Green, three ways

Green will be one of the hottest colors of the year in fashion — and in nails.

• Emerald — When emerald was named Pantone Color of the Year for 2013, we knew this rich hue would find its way into the beauty scene and it has. Many of your favorite nail lacquer brands will release emerald-y shades in 2013.
• Mint — Mint green has been popular in spring for the last two years, and we'll see more of the same in 2013. If you like pale shades of polish but want something a little different than girly pinks, then mint might be the answer for you.
• Accents — Bold color combinations are going to be on-trend all year. One of our favorites is jet black nails accented with brilliant green designs.

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Know Your Health Through Your Hair

Everything from stress to nutrition to hormones can impact whether your strands are thick and shiny or thin and brittle. Check out these telltale clues that your tresses can give you about your overall well-being. 

Major shedding

What it means: The average woman may lose as many as 100 hairs a day, but if you suddenly notice fistfuls coming loose when you brush or piles on your pillow, it may be a clue that you have a hormonal imbalance called PCOS, or polycystic ovary syndrome. PCOS can trigger your ovaries to produce too many androgens, or male sex hormones, and contribute to hair thinning or hair loss. Other signs of PCOS include stubborn belly fat, facial hair, acne, and irregular periods. 

The fix: As many as one in 15 women may have some degree of PCOS, but losing weight by eating whole, unprocessed foods and exercising for at least 30 minutes a day can balance hormones and lessen symptoms. Taking the pill also helps regulate your period. As for your hair, it's a myth that skipping shampooing will prevent you from losing more. Your scalp has already been programmed to lose those strands. Be sure to keep washing regularly so you feel good and maintain a healthy scalp.

Fine, limp texture 

What it means: If your once-thick locks morph into thin strands, it could be a sign of hypothyroidism, a condition by which the thyroid gland doesn't produce enough hormones, causing your metabolism to slow down. The thyroid is the master gland that regulates your endocrine system and it also impacts how hair is formed. Other symptoms of hypothyroidism include unexplained weight gain, being cold all the time, and feeling fatigue despite getting adequate sleep. 

The fix: First thing's first: see your doc. She or he will give you a TSH test and - if diagnosed with hypothyroidism - you may have to take a pill such as Synthroid. As for keeping your strands thick, avoid getting highlights if you color your hair. Highlights over color cause damage and compromise the overall density by increasing the likelihood of breakage. 

Hair that falls out only in patches 

What it means: Losing hair in dime- and quarter-sized patches could be what's known as alopecia aratha. It's thought to be an autoimmune condition where your immune system attacks your body's own healthy cells and may be triggered by major life events such as a pregnancy or illness. Patches may fill in and regrow, and then another bald patch can show up.

The fix: It's important to consult with your doctor to pinpoint whether or not you have an underlying immune disorder, and cortisone shots could help. It may also just be your body's individual response to stress, similar to how some people break out in hives on their skin. If stress seems to be the cause, better manage your anxiety by pinpointing your specific triggers and avoiding them, as well as trying a mindfulness-based exercise routine such as yoga or tai chi. 

Going gray early 

What it means: Genetics are mostly to blame for those white hairs sprouting all over your head, and usually aren't indicative of an underlying health problem. However, if you have a lot of grays before age 35, some studies suggest you might be short on vitamin B12 and folic acid. Researchers discovered that folic acid, vitamin B12 and sun exposure could help re-pigment patches of both skin and hair that stopped producing melanin, according to a study by the Department of Dermatology at University Hospital in Uppsala, Sweden. 

The fix: To get more vitamin B12, fill up on lean red meat, shellfish, eggs, poultry, and milk. For folic acid, increase your intake of leafy greens, beans, and fortified grains. To cover grays without harsh chemicals, try a formula  that uses natural botanicals like henna instead of ammonia, formaldehyde, and other potentially harmful ingredients. 

Dry, flaky scalp 

What it means: Dandruff can be seriously embarrassing - it's definitely not an accessory you want to wear with a little black dress during the holidays. Besides using too many products, those little white flakes can also be the result of stress and anxiety.

The Fix: Try adding more fish to your dish - such as salmon and sardines - to up your levels of omega-3 fatty acids. This healthy fat not only helps keep skin and hair supple, but researchers have shown that people with the highest blood levels of omega-3 fatty acids are least likely to report symptoms of depression, and report having an overall more positive outlook. Also try an exfoliating scalp mask to slough off dead cells and moisturize skin. Think about your scalp the way you think about your skin because it's the base for your hair follicles to grow out. You want to moisturize it and soothe inflammation.

Strands that break off easily 

What it means: Your hair is made of a protein called keratin, and a lack of protein in your diet can weaken tresses to the point that they snap. Vegans or vegetarians may be especially at-risk since meats are one of the most common sources of protein. If you're certain you're getting enough protein, the damage may be caused by heat and overstyling. 

The fix: If you're eating an 1800-calorie-a-day diet, aim to get at least 68 grams of protein to help fortify strands. An example of an easy swap to up your intake includes trading a six-inch pancake sans butter or syrup (5 grams protein, 175 calories) for 1 cup low-fat plain yogurt with 1/2 cup apricots (13 grams protein, 186 calories).  To prevent weakening the cuticle and further breakage, turn the heat setting down to medium on your styling tools. Also try cutting two minutes off of your usual styling time, because it usually doesn't change the overall look of your hair but can potentially lessen cumulative damage that makes strands more fragile. 

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2013 Fashion Trends

Last year yielded a few new trends we liked, some we grew tired of, and many we really never liked (hidden wedge heels inside sneakers just seem so masochistic). Suddenly not feeling your neon clothing anymore (or perhaps you've singed your retinas)? Fear not! Fashion is cyclical and you may want that bright chartreuse dress one day.

Hi-low Hemlines aka Mullet Dresses 

Celebs love showing off their legs, but this swooping hemline is having an identity crisis. Rather than a sexy mini or a flowing maxi, there's this weird, confused, hi-low monstrosity. It's like a rat-tail: we just want to snip it off!

Neon

This in-your-face trend has been popular for years, and when done in small doses (like the trim on a clutch) it can be playful and unexpected. But in 2012 people got way too comfortable wearing head-to-toe neon and outfits are starting looking like Halloween costumes. The clothes, the nail polish, the hair! Ahh, our eyes! We'd love to put these colors on mute. 

Spike Overload 

An outfit that's composed of at least 60% non-metal. Really, ladies. The clothing, handbags, and shoes covered in spikes are overkill and truly an accident waiting to happen. Don't say we didn't warn you. 

Top Knots

Yes, top knots were our easy, go-to holiday style, and they’re prefect for days when there's no time to wash. They're also an ideal 'do for the gym, the beach, running errands, and pie-eating contests (we're just guessing). Grab a bottle of dry shampoo and experiment with a new style this year. 

Tribal prints 

From ikat to cevrons to everything in between, this year's music festival gear was like a vomitous explosion of tribal prints (and coordinating arm parties, of course). We yearn for simple, crisp stripes, or dare we say solid fabrics. 

Fancy Pajamas

Yes, Rihanna's silk PJs and robe is a far cry from grungy sweats or Snuggies, but we still think jammies have no business outside the home, let alone on the red carpet.

Pointy Nails 

Sharp talons like Fergie's are a little intriguing, kind of scary, and difficult to maintain. We prefer our neatly filed round and squoval nails, thanks. 

Wedge Sneakers

Dresses and sneakers don't quite compliment each other like a burger and fries. Designer Isabel Marant and countless imitators decided to put a wedge heel on their kicks in an attempt to make them more formal. Well, it didn't really work, and now the only footwear designed to be comfortable and good for your feet is anything but. That's a fail in our book.

Sheer Outfits 

We felt like someone's grandma this year, wanting to go around and cover up all the women in sheer clothing. In 2013 we vow to leave more to the imagination. 

Splash News Peplums

The right style on the right girl is so flattering as it can slim the waist, hide a tummy, and enhance the hips. But not all trends are for everyone and we've seen too many peplums gone bad. Slapping a ruffle on the wrong place in a bulky fabric can actually add weight! Peplums are still hitting stores this spring, but let's avoid a fashion disaster.

Printed denim 

Jeans are typically an investment piece you wear every day. But be honest: how often are you really wearing your jeans adorned with leopard print, stripes, flowers, or polka dots? And might those patterns be more flattering on, say, an accessory? Thought so. 

Half-shaved heads 

Even Ke$ha has moved on from the under-shaved hairstyle, so let's all just grow it out. 

Illusion Dresses

Kate Moss, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Kate Winslet were some of the first starlets to try Stella McCartney's "illusion" designs with strategically placed colorblocking designed to make women look thinner. Thing is, these ladies all have amazing figures to begin with, and up close those silhouette lines aren't fooling anyone. We hope this dress and all the knockoffs it spawned go the way of the ubiquitous Herve Leger bandage dress and slowly disappears. 

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Harmful Beauty Trends to Avoid in 2013

So many beautifying techniques sound like a really great idea -- who wouldn't want to restore moisture and elasticity to their skin, deep condition and soften their hair, or get a pretty glow? But in our ever-enduring efforts to look our best, we can sometimes fall prey to unhealthy and even dangerous treatments.

Here are five beauty trends we saw this year that are just plain bad for you:

Keratin Straightening Systems

We've long been concerned about keratin treatments -- also known as Brazilian Straightening treatments. But as of earlier this year, the two biggest manufacturers of the treatment will include a warning about the carcinogenic effects of formaldehyde gas that is emitted when the product is mixed.`

Black Market Butt Injections

Loose solutions like silicone are not approved for injections in humans, and yet this fast-growing treatment that is meant to augment your posterior is regularly conducted at home or by unlicensed people, often known as "shot girls". 

In a certified surgeon's office, the typical augmentation would be done using the patient's own fat. And though any medical procedure caries its own set of risks, it's obvious that the regulated and controlled process conducted by a licensed physician is a safer bet.

Tanning

This year's tanning mom was a cautionary tale if there ever was one -- though the majority of tanners obviously don't look quite like her. But even if that tanning-bed session gave you a healthy-looking glow, you're now 29 percent more likely to develop basal-cell carcinomas and 69 percent more likely to get squamous-cell carcinomas -- two types of deadly skin cancer.

Fish Spa Pedicures

It sounds harmless enough: Toothless carp known as "doctor fish" nibble away at the dead skin cells that form unsightly callouses on a person's feet. But a recent analysis of fish slated for spas throughout the U.K. showed they were found to have antibiotic-resistant bacteria such as Vibrio vulnificus, Vibrio cholerae, S. agalactiae and even Streptococcus agalactiae, which can cause pneumonia and other serious infections. 

That callous-sloughing razor doesn't sound so bad now, does it?

Bikini Waxes

At least one crusader -- a family doctor who runs a student health center in the U.K. -- is out to end the practice of bikini waxing. 

Dr. Emily Gibson explains that waxing pubic hair creates microtears in skin that, in turn, makes waxers more vulnerable to picking up infections -- either from bacteria that grows in the genital region, or from sexually transmitted disease. 

“Pubic hair does have a purpose, providing a cushion against friction that can cause skin abrasion and injury, and protection from bacteria," wrote Gibson in MedPage Today. "It is the visible result of adolescent hormones and certainly nothing to be ashamed of or embarrassed about.”

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How to Treat a Stuffy Nose?

Winter knock you off your game? What's the best thing to do for a stuffy nose?

There's no secret formula, so you'll need to try treatments one at a time to see what works for you. Use this backgrounder on some common decloggers; as always, read labels for directions and side effect info. 

Antihistamines: They fight histamines, chemicals that cause congestion and stuffyiness during an infection or allergy attack. Older ones such as Benadryl may make you sleepy, so look for newer formulas marked nondrowsy. 

Decongestants: Oral decongestants with pseudoephedrine work to clear you up by shrinking swollen nasal tissues, but they could make you jittery. Nasal sprays are great for occasional relief, but they lose effectiveness with prolonged use. 

Nasal irrigation: Neti pots and the like can help literally wash out congestion. Saline sprays moisten nasal passages and ease inflammation to relieve stuffiness. Both can be used in tandem with most over-the-counter or Rx meds, too. 

Natural cures: Sprays with capsaicin, the stuff that makes chiles spicy, may clear congestion, but there's not a ton of research to back this up. I say: Natural treatments may work, but use them carefully-too much of anything can hurt you. 

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Holiday Beauty Tips

It's the most wonderful time of the year! No, not the holidays--holiday parties! You may already have your outfits planned for the numerous get-togethers on your schedule, but have you figured out your statement-making beauty looks to go with them? We're highlighting the eye-catching beauty tips and trends that will make you truly sparkle this season. 

For work-related events - You don't want a look that's too out there--focus on sophistication with a touch of glamour. Always remember to apply moisturizer before any sort of foundation, ensuring a smooth base. Try an eyeshadow in either gold, brown, or silver, depending on skin tone, and stick to neutral lip shades close to your natural lip color. Vamp it up with eyeliner and a heavy coat of mascara on top and lower lashes. For hair, test drive the down 'do with a side-swept and modern version of a French twist. Be sure to try a tailored pair of printed pants with a simple tank and a tuxedo blazer for an authoritative yet festive holiday outfit.

For weekend night parties - Cat eyes are perfect for sexy and adventurous weekend looks. Starting with a clean eye, use a liquid liner to achieve this retro style--no need to line your lower lids. Try tousled and voluminous hair for a seductive vibe. We suggest a peplum mini dress in a fun metallic shade with black ankle booties instead of pumps, and feel free to accessorize with an embellished belt.

For daytime shindigs - Be daring with a bold lip--they're not just for the evening anymore! A sheer red for daytime, with the rest of your look clean and understated, of course, is the perfect way to take that beauty leap. For your hair, try a half-up style with volume for an effortless yet jazzed up feel. A cozy sweater with leather leggings are all you'll need to shine during any daytime event!

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Eating Healthy This Holiday Season

Pause for a moment amid crazy schedules to appreciate the joy surrounding you this holiday.

The true testament to the power of food goes beyond any sensory gratification to the feelings of love and togetherness it evokes. Yet, it seems so easy to overlook the deeper pleasures of the table amid the hectic holiday swirl. 

The body's logic is to respond to any stressor by focusing on taking as much food as possible and storing it. But you're not enjoying it. So if you're stressed-and most people are during the holidays-you will overeat and won't enjoy the time.

By encouraging you to let go of stressors and enjoy the food you're eating, mindfulness can help you make the most of your food choices, paving the way for truly appreciating and savoring them.

1. Inhale and exhale. 

Slow, deep, even breathing tells the brain stem to put the entire brain into a state of calm. Take five deep in-and-out breaths after you sit down at the table and before you lift your fork.

2. Give thanks.

The parts of your brain that are associated with gratitude and appreciation cannot operate when there is stress. But the good news is the reverse is also true: If you're focused on gratitude, the stress can't take over. Gratitude stops addictive patterns in the brain.  After your five deep breaths, allow yourself a moment of gratitude, silent reflection, or prayer for the food you are about to eat.

3. All food is good.

Remove "good" and "bad" from your food vocabulary. You can't completely enjoy a piece of cake if you're telling yourself it is bad for you. There is no such thing as a bad or wrong food. If you get rid of the judgmental language around food, it becomes less stressful. When making food decisions, try replacing "I should" or "I shouldn't" with "I choose to.

4. Replay frustrating situations.

When you do find yourself mindlessly eating or reacting to stress by reaching for something sweet or salty (it does happen to everyone), forgive yourself and move on. Because we tend to remember what we did wrong, it helps to replay it in your mind with a different outcome. It's a way of rehearsing that behavior so it replicates more easily. Instead of mentally putting yourself through the ringer, replay the situation in your head again. You went overboard with the cheese board or the cocktail bar, and you're unhappy. Replay the scenario, only this time you're taking a bite or sip, enjoying it slowly, and truly savoring every flavor.

5. Enjoy what's on your plate.

Never eat anything you don't enjoy, and truly enjoy everything you eat. Take the first four bites of your meals slowly and with full attention on the food: Savor the flavors and textures so that you can begin to understand what mindful eating feels like.

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12th World Bazaar Festival at the World Trade Center - December 7 to 23, 2012

In celebrating their tradition of promoting and organizing world-class events, Worldbex Services International (WSI), in cooperation with ABS CBN, brings you the 12^th World Bazaar Festival. It is the year’s longest Christmas charity bazaar’s running from from December 7 to 23 at the World Trade Center.

Drop in at the fair from Monday to Thursday from 12 noon to 10pm and Friday to Sunday from 10 am to 12 midnight for the opportunity to experience while being entertained by different shows and attractions provided by ABS-CBN talents live on stage. Relax and enjoy yourselves as you shop and dine in this Christmas shopping haven for the benefit of your family and ABS-CBN Foundation, Inc.

The World Bazaar Festival will be featuring over 800 booths from the country’s top retail brands covering everything from toys to gadgets to books to handicrafts, kitchenware, and houseware. The bazaar has over 618 participating companies and a 25,000 square meter shopping area for 230,000 shoppers.

Be updated with the latest Kapamilya shows as ABS CBN launches their 2013 programs for everyone to enjoy at the event. You can also check out homemade desserts to give this coming Christmas at Woobie’s Goodies where pavilions of baked organic goods and snacks are available for sale.

The 12^th World Bazaar Festival will also showcase top brands in Designers Avenue like Rustan’s, Rayban, Rudy Project, Converse, Celine, CMG group, Play and Display, Goody, Hang Ten, Enfant, Adidas, Puma, FILA, Converse, Triumph and unique, hard to find Christmas decorations and ornaments from the Christmas Decors Producers and Exporters Association of the Philippines.

“Last year’s World Bazaar Festival was an overwhelming success, with thousands of people pouring in to shop their hearts out with our wide selection of products. This year, we look forward to organizing a Christmas charity bazaar that’s bigger and better than before with all our new highlights,” JR Ang, Worldbex Marketing Director, shares.

This year, there will be two weekend highlights for the World Bazaar Festival. Get the chance to grab the hottest gadgets  as top suppliers gather to put together the best shopping experience for you in the Appliance & Gadgets Craze. Meet and greet your favorite bloggers in Bloggers Block, done in cooperation with Bloggers United, where the top bloggers will pool together for a weekend blog hopping attraction with names such as Laureen Uy, Divine Lee, Camille Co, Victor Basa, David Guison, Lissa Kahayon and Kryz Uy to name a few. Both are pocket events which will happen simultaneously in the WTCMM East Wing.

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5 Basic Skin Care Tips for Women

For many people in their 20s, when it comes to health, beauty and just life in general, skin care is not their primary concern. With all the many changes that often occur during this period of our lives, from identifying life and career goals to surviving college and to truly entering the ‘real world’, the 20’s are a time of great upheaval for many people. What most people don’t realize, however, is that your 20s is also a critical time to create a skin care routine that will prevent wrinkles and set the tone for good skin throughout the rest of your life. Here are some simple tips on how to maintain a good skin.

1) Protect Your Skin From the Sun. The number one thing you can do to stay young and beautiful is to protect your skin from harmful sun rays. Not only does tanning (naturally or in sun beds) harm your skin and make you look older, it can also cause skin cancer. Wear an sunscreen with SPF 25 or higher on your face and body every day. 

2) Drink Plenty of Water. Dull looking skin can simply be the result of skimping on water intake. Many women don't realize that when you hydrate your body, you hydrate your skin too. Water helps plump up your cells to make them look younger and fresher, so be sure to drink up. 

3) Get Your Beauty Sleep.  It seems cliché, but nothing drags down your looks like a lack of sleep does. When you're tired, your skin shows it by looking dull, your eyes can get puffy and dark circles appear. Shoot for at least seven to eight hours of quality sleep every night if you want to look your best. 

4) Keep it Clean. Although washing your face at the end of the day may seem like a chore, your effort is well worth it in the long run. When you go to bed without washing, the dirt of the day mixes with your makeup and skin oils to clog pores and dull skin. 

5) Moisturize, Moisturize, Moisturize. Just like your body needs hydration from water, your skin needs moisture to keep it looking fresh and healthy. Apply a high quality moisturizer with an SPF of at least 25 every morning before you apply makeup. At night, wash your face and then apply a heavier night cream to maximize moisture absorption as you sleep. 

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Tips in Buying a Blazer for Men

 When it comes to blazers, there are two points to note: one- that it is an absolute must-have in every man’s wardrobe and two- it is superbly versatile, more than a suit or a sports jacket.

A blazer is great for a winter evening as it keeps you warm and stylish at the same time. They make you look sleek and smart and covers all that extra, err, baggage that you’re trying to get rid of and are definitely a hot pick this season. We give you simple steps into choosing a blazer that will look perfect on you and last you long enough to make an impression.

The most important step when it comes to getting the right blazer is the measurement aspect. Your blazer’s fit can make or break your outfit. Remember, if it’s shapeless, it’s useless. We understand that your blazer should have enough room for movement and not let you feel all suffocated, but we surely don’t understand why you would get a size bigger just to let it loosely and shapelessly hang on your body! Your blazer should just smoothly follow the natural shape of your body without being too tight or loose. The shoulders of your blazer should end at the shoulder, the length should be just above your bottom covering just an inch of it and the arms should be tapering towards your wrist. Isn’t that simple? Blazer fit is definitely not complicated if you remember these simple steps while getting one made or selecting one from a store.

A blazer comes in many styles that you can choose from like the American style blazer with two buttons in the front with soft shoulders, an English blazer that is more suppressed or an Italian blazer that is more relaxed, flexible and less structured. Choose your style according to your personality and comfort.

A blazer can be made of different fabrics, the most common one being the flannel wool that is good for colder climates. The corduroy is also a smart choice for a classy evening while linen blazers are perfect for a hot summer’s afternoon. Different patterns or woven wool is also preferred for the winters.

Navy blue blazers are definitely the classic choice with or without brass buttons. If you’re wearing the buttons, accessorize it with a gold watch and a gold belt buckle to complete the look. This type of blazer can be paired with any coloured pants like brown, beige, olive and black. Its versatility is quite prominent once worn.

Your overall comfort is very important. So once you have worn your entire outfit, look and in the mirror and see if you feel good. If your mind makes no complaints, you’re definitely on the right track!

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