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‘Extreme Male Beauty’ is the latest in a long line of TV shows that see people put through a tough diet and exercise regime in an attempt to prove that anyone can achieve the perfect body. These shows have been around for a while and are part of an increasing obsession with physical appearance and the need to look good whatever the cost. What makes ‘Extreme Male Beauty’ different from other shows, if the title hasn’t given it away already, is that for once it’s men and not women who are being put through their paces in the pursuit of perfection.

The beauty industry has long been fuelled by its considerable powers of persuasion and ability to make people feel inadequate. With so many stunning celebrities around to remind us how we are supposed to look, it can be easy to get weighed down by insecurities. We want to believe that with the help of the products we see advertised every day, we too could look like the perfect supermodel. Stereotypically women are more likely to suffer from this type of image issues, but recently more and more men are beginning to worry about thier appearance and the male beauty industry is booming.

Traditionally, most men would never have admitted to having a beauty routine and men’s deodorants, a quick shave and a bit of aftershave was as far as they would go. But with so many well-groomed celebrities like David Beckham and Daniel Craig setting the example, things are changing fast. From skincare to hair styling, moisturisers to men’s hair removal, there is no end to the range of men’s beauty products available, and men are lapping it up. And with so many pampering products, styling tools and men’s fragrances available, men are looking better than ever, and long may it last!

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There are literally thousands upon thousands of fragrances all around the world. Some vintage, some brand new, some that make a statement, and some that are gentle hints.  Perfume fragrances can be sourced from every continent on earth but the biggest markets tend to be in the west.   The higher disposable income and fashion culture has meant that western society has largely dominated sales but this may be set to change.The perfume domain in the Arab States however is an area that is on the up and this has caught the eye of many big players in the industry

The whole market is doing well at the moment, with many reports suggesting it will reach, by 2010, a total worth of around $30 billion. around $280m of this is made up by the Arabian Peninsula, but the difference is that their growth rate is exceptionally higher. 22% was the increase that was seen last year.

The staggering growth in the market, shared with Asia-Pacific and the Middle East, has been put down to increased money in the area and a differing way of life.  The Arab States have also been practitioners of using fragrances. In Saudi Arabia for example, around 85% of women use scents every day. However, the types of fragrance have changed, with more exclusive parfum brands replacing the more traditional products. Also, men are increasingly using scents to express themselves and they are purchasing a much wider range of fragrances for themselves.

The upward surge in the market has seen a number of large shows being organised and some strong names in the field competing for a slice of the pie. The next show in the area, which is arguably among the biggest 3 in the world, is the great Beautyworld Middle East. This year there are an amazing 870 exhibitors, displaying around 1,600 brands - an increase of 18% on last year. Next years show is already in the planning stages as those in charge suggest that the increase in numbers will only keep going

Technorati Tags: arab, Asia, Dubai, fragrance, Market, parfum, perfume, scent

Just how big is the gap between keeping yourself neat and tidy and looking like you have just woken up? To be honest the gap isnt that big at all. Even a bit of Molton Brown facial wash could help boost not only the way you look but also the way you feel everyday. I like to be clean and shower everyday like most men and I do not think hundreds of different products for the hair are needed but a few for this and that can help a lot. Of course, there is no need to go over the top like many young men in that they look in the mirror every five minutes to check how their hair and face look. I personally would never ever recommend going over the top when choosing which products to buy for yourself there is just no need to over do it.

However do treat yourself to something every once in a while as it not only makes you feel a bit better about yourself but your partner wont be as afraid to take you out as she usually would. (Unless of course your partner is worse than you are!) Even if you do not want to rush out and buy really expensive lotions and hair products if you are like  a lot of young men suffering from either minor or major acne problems a lot of products can help to put a stop to this. I personally like to use some from the Kiehl’s range.

The reason that more men are starting to buy products like this is simply because they are getting on with them and are showing at least some benefit. Some of these help the skin when you are stressed which I know for me is a big help as the worst thing you want when you are stressed is a blotchy face.If your partner is anything like mine she is always moaning about how unhygienic you are so a product like this could really help you out.

There is certainly nothing to be afraid of when it comes to male grooming. I always thought that too until I actually purhcased one of the products to give it a try and was pleasantly surprised when I felt better about myself. Even if you still do not think, it is for you at least try one of the great body washes from American Crew.

Technorati Tags: american crew, Beauty, kiehl's, male grooming, molton brown

If you are puzzled as to the cause of stretch marks, rest assured that they are not caused because of dry, irritated skin or an aging of the skin.  Stretch marks are the result of the rapid stretching of the skin due to rapid growth (common in puberty) or weight fluctuations.  In fact, studies reveal that 75% - 90% of women get stretch marks to some degrees as a result of being pregnant alone. Stretch marks can occur in men and women of all age groups and nationalities. The truth is that stretch marks are just a part of life.

Stretch marks are also referred to as striae distensae. Medical terminology for these kinds of markings include striae atrophicae, vergetures, striae cutis distensae, striae gravidarum (in cases where it is caused by pregnancy), lineae atrophicae, striae distensae, linea albicante, or simply striae. The good news is that you can get rid of them to a certain degree though.

Causes of Female Stretch Marks

Women are often the victim of  stretch marks on various parts on their body during puberty and during pregnancy. However, contrary to conventional wisdom, and their unfortunate name, the stretch mark cause is not over-stretched skin. Women who are pregnant often experience stretch marks as the skin stretches at a rate too fast for the skin to keep up with. Obesity and bodybuilding can also lead to stretch marks as the body rapidly puts on additional weight.

Pregnancy Stretch Marks

Pregnancy is a time when your body goes through radical changes - both weight and shape. Pregnancy problems like stretch marks are common in many mothers with up to 90% developing some degree of skin damage. Stretch marks show up as red or purplish streaks developing on your body, generally on your belly and breasts. The time of pregnancy is truly a special time in a woman’s life, but this one aspect of child-bearing, however, can cause real self esteem issues.

Preventing Stretch Marks

Weight gain and weight loss can also change the magnitude of your stretch marks. It is important to keep yourself hydrated, as this will help provide elasticity to your skin and allow it to stretch further without damage. If you are experiencing a significant weight gain or loss, you can take a proactive approach by using stretch mark cream products to help prevent the development of the marks.  

Also, bodybuilders, especially men, are susceptible stretch marks appearing on their upper arms and shoulder areas when development of muscle is built up quickly. A reputable stretch mark lotion can offer the skin additional elasticity and help deter stretch mark development.

A group especially prone to stretch marks is teens who experience rapid growth as they come out of puberty. A natural approach to helping prevent stretch marks is to maintain healthy skin.  This involves drinking lots of liquids and taking skin supporting supplements such as vitamin E.  

Despite a number of activities leading to the development of stretch marks, weight gain and loss is still the primary cause. But fear not, there is still hope! A stretch mark prevention program consisting of stretch mark removal cream, drinking lots of water, and controlled weight changes can help reduce stretch mark development. A little focus on prevention now can help your self-esteem on those future trips to the beach.

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Did you know that liposuction, or just lipo, is one of the most popular aesthetic plastic surgery procedures performed on women and men in the United States? According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), almost half a million people underwent lipo in 2007. Many people turn to this procedure because dieting and exercise have not given them the results they are looking for. Lipo removes fatty tissue from areas of the body that don’t respond to diet and exercise.

Lipo is a contouring procedure and is not to be considered a weight loss method. It is best for people who are at a normal weight and who have skin that is still firm and elastic, yet simply want to remove fat deposits in certain areas. Ideal candidates should have realistic expectations regarding the outcome of the procedure. They should also be physically healthy and mentally stable.

Consult a plastic surgeon about the risks and complications before you make any decisions regarding having this reconstructive surgery done. You should evaluate your reasons for wanting to enhance your looks, since plastic surgery is not for everyone. The surgeon you choose should discuss any questions or concerns you may have and give you an idea of the benefits and risks of having liposuction.

There are four lipo techniques that have been developed to help create a slimmer and more proportioned body contour. They are tumescent, ultra-sonic assisted, super-wet and power-assisted lipo.

The tumescent technique involves injecting a large amount of anesthetic liquid into areas of excess fat before lipo is performed. This liquid contracts blood vessels and causes fat to become swollen. The expanded fat pockets let the surgeon’s tool travel smoothly under the skin to remove the fat.

During the ultra-sonic assisted procedure, ultrasound waves break up the fat before it is removed. This method uses a combination of vibration energy and heat energy on fat. It is commonly used when a secondary procedure is needed and targets fibrous areas of the body, such as the upper back or male breasts.

The super wet method is similar to the tumescent technique, where fluid is injected into the tissues prior to it being suctioned away. The only difference is that less fluid is used.

Power-assisted lipo is the latest advance in fat removal. During this procedure, a wand-type instrument is used to quickly break up fatty tissue. It loosens up the fat cells so that they can be gently suctioned away without causing trauma to the surrounding tissues.

As with all plastic surgery procedures, the risks and complications associated with lipo vary, depending on the method used. Generally, the most common risks include blood clot formations on the leg, excess blood loss, bleeding, infection, reaction to anesthesia, asymmetry, hyper-pigmentation, swelling, necrosis and numbness.

Most people feel some discomfort after the liposuction procedure, but are able to return to work within three or four days. As the body heals, usually within four to six weeks, the results of the procedure will emerge. Generally, you will feel more confident in your appearance and enjoy your new look once the healing process is complete. Just remember to do your research and become well informed before undertaking any type of cosmetic plastic surgery.

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Confidence gives you an added bounce to your step. When you look good, you feel good about yourself and who doesn’t want to feel good about how they look? If you are unhappy with your nose or your eyelids droop a bit, then your confidence level may be low. With the help of facial plastic surgery, it is possible to get that confidence back. The most common type of facial cosmetic surgery is the nose job. Over 300,000 men and women underwent rhinoplasty in 2008 alone.

As with any type of facial plastic surgery procedure, the best candidates for nose surgery are those who want a general improvement in their appearance, not perfection. A person should be in good physical and mental health, and have realistic expectations before undertaking any type of aesthetic plastic surgery. It is important to remember that most surgeons won’t perform surgery of the nose on a patient until they have finished growing. This is typically at age 17 or older for males and 16 or older for females.

Reconstructive surgery of the nose usually takes around one to two hours and is performed under a general or local anesthetic. You may have it at a hospital or at an outpatient surgical center. Nose surgery can be performed one of two ways; either through an open or closed technique. It will depend on your condition and what your surgeon prefers.

The open technique can give the good results if the plastic surgeon performing the procedure has good visibility of the internal structure of the nose. Small surgical incisions are made inside the nostrils and across the vertical strip of tissue that separates the nostrils.

The closed technique can be completed almost without any scarring. It is favored by many doctors because it doesn’t require an external incision. If the closed technique is performed, the healing time is relatively quick, though swelling can be more prominent and may take longer to go away than with the open technique.

The possible risks and complications are typically minor with surgery of the nose, though all plastic surgery procedures carry side effects and risks. These can include numbness, infection, a negative reaction to anesthesia, excessive nose bleeding, the need for a another procedure, swelling, bruising and delays in healing.

Regardless of which surgical technique is used, after it is done, a splint is applied and the nose is packed lightly with surgical gauze. Changing the gauze bandages a few times each day during the first few days following cosmetic plastic surgery is important because you may have some minor bleeding. Within a few days, most patients are able to resume light activity, but do keep in mind that it could take several weeks before the nose is completely healed.

Facial plastic surgery provides permanent results for people who are unhappy with their appearance. It could, however, take over a year before accurate results can be determined because healing is typically a slow process. The healing of nasal tissues, increased or decreased blood flow, skin thickness and other factors determine the length of the process. Remember that the most important choice you make is in choosing the surgeon to perform your surgery.

Technorati Tags: aesthetic plastic surgery, American Society of Plastic Surgeons, cosmetic plastic surgery, facial plastic surgery, nose surgery, plastic surgery, plastic surgery procedures, reconstructive surgery