Updated July, 2024 Hair trends in the early 2000s were all about straighteners. Most curly-haired women used a straightener at home or applied a chemical treatment at the salon. Now, everyone’s all about embracing their curls. Sometimes, the switch takes a bit of a learning curve. Check out these eight tips to learn how to bring out natural curls. After trying a few new tips and experimenting with your personal style, you’ll find a new routine that accentuates your curly hair without overdoing it. 1. Use Sulfate-Free Shampoo When you walk down the beauty aisle at your local store, you might see bottles labeled “sulfate-free.” People used to believe sulfates were multiple cleansing agents that could cause cancer, but research has proven the opposite. Shampoos use the following three sulfates as ingredients: Sodium laureth sulfate Sodium lauryl sulfate Ammonium lauryl sulfate The current research shows that sulfates have no harmful carcinogenic effects, but they do dry your scalp and hair by stripping away oils. Dry hair leads to breakage, reducing your curls' bounce and length. 2. Skip the Shampoo Curly hair has a microscopic texture. Daily shampoo destroys this texture, making curls appear weighted and lifeless. If you prefer to shower every day, try skipping the shampoo. Use it every other shower or only a few times a week. Your hair will better retain its moisture and shape. Instead, embrace co-washing. What’s that? It’s short for “conditioner washing,” and it refers to applying conditioner only. Doing so gives your locks a light boost of fragrance while protecting the ends against dryness and damage. How do you do it? Simply continue your daily use of conditioner during your regular shower schedule. It purposefully moisturizes hair. Target the ends of your curls for the most noticeable benefits, skipping the roots if you have greasy tendencies. Those with serious oil can use a touch of dry shampoo on their roots only after a shower to tamp down the slick.  3. Tap Out the Moisture Think about how you dry your hair. It could significantly affect the appearance of your curls. Blow-drying your hair upside down creates incredible volume — and the sleek, straight Brazilian blow-out look. Leaving your locks to air dry is better, but even then, water can weigh down long strands, pulling out natural curliness. You produce waves, not ringlets  Instead, use the plopping technique after you finish your next shower. Tie your hair on top of your head using a large T-shirt. Your curls will settle like compressed Slinkies and improve their formation. After a minimum of 20 minutes, take the shirt off so your hair dries completely.  Another super-easy technique for those with long hair hoping to bring out natural curls is to twist your locks into a high bun and let it dry. Use an elastic to pull your hair into a high ponytail, then twist it until it begins curling in on itself. Secure it in place with clips, another elastic or both and let it dry. While you won’t achieve the tight ringlet look of pincurls, you’ll enjoy tousled waves.  4. Sleep on Silk Pillowcases Frizz can feel like your worst enemy. It gives your hair too much poof and loses its natural shape that would otherwise fill you with confidence. Your cotton pillowcase could make it worse by soaking up your scalp’s natural oils. Silk pillowcases won’t catch your curls while you toss and turn. They’ll also preserve the oil your hair needs to stay healthy. This material also prevents those unsightly lines that carve themselves into your face after a good nap — and take forever to pop back out as you age. Silk pillowcases may improve your hair and skin more than any other investment, and you can pick them up for less than $20/  Even though silk pillowcases do amazing things for your skin and hair like bringing out natural curls, your other habits still matter. Make sure you don’t sleep with your hair pulled back and up. It may damage your hair quality and prevent the pillowcase from improving its natural texture. Unless you are tying or pinning your hair to create tighter curls, let your locks free at night.  5. Ditch the Brush Dry brushing is significantly harder on curls than straight hair. It pulls on them and increases breakage, resulting in split ends and frizziness. If your hair needs some attention, bring out your natural curls by spritzing water or detangling spray and following through with a wide-toothed comb. Raking your curls with the comb won’t hurt them, but it will provide the reinforced shape and defrizzing they might need. Afterward, your hair will be free for styling into short updos or leaving it down in its natural shape. 6. Feather Your Ends Thick hair sometimes doesn’t work well with natural curls. You might battle intense volume, so make a quick call to your hairdresser. They might recommend a bit of feathering around the ends of your hair. It reduces volume without cutting off length, so your hair feels lighter and looks thinner. It could even make your curls easier to manage. Don’t forget the importance of regular trimmings, especially if you feather your hair. You’ll need to trim your hair to maintain fast, healthy growth, even if you don’t plan on growing it out. 7. Attach a Diffuser Sometimes you’ll be in a rush and need to use your hairdryer. When that happens, don’t panic. Attach a diffuser to the end of the dryer to control the heat more efficiently. Instead of one intense flow of air, the diffuser preserves your natural wave pattern while reducing frizz.  It can also even out your curls or waves, resulting in a singular look rather than curls with varying bounce. 8. Try a Mousse Product Mousse is a styling product that contains proteins. It stiffens your hair to hold your curls naturally, without the stickiness of heavy hairspray. Apply only a tiny bit to soften dry hair and improve the shape of your curly waves. Lock in Your Style Give yourself time to play around with these tips and figure out how to bring out your natural curls. Once you know which works for your hair, lock in your natural style with a little light hair spray in the mornings. Originally published on December 4, 2020

Updated July, 2024 People with long hair have plenty of hairstyles to choose from. One such hairstyle implements the use of banana curls — long, tube-like curls that seem to be full of volume and hold lots of bounce. Once your hair is curled this way, you can add extra styling to it, like buns or ponytails, or leave it down. It's such a versatile hairstyle, and here's all you need to know about it. Why Go Bananas? No one knows why these curls were named after one particular fruit, but you might guess that the curve of a banana reminded people of the curls in their hair. When looser, banana curls tend to have that sweeping shape to them that bananas have. How tight or loose you wear them depends on your personal preference. Banana curls were a favorite hairstyle of women in the 1940s, as they allowed for their hair to stay out of their face when they worked. When you search for this particular type of curl, you may see several different answers. That's because people achieve a similar look through various methods and put their own spin on the banana curl that suits their daily life and the appearance they want. Another form of the "banana curl" method involves using bananas to strengthen your curls. The fruit works great in a hair mask that you can use to keep your hair smooth, and you can use it just like your favorite deep conditioning treatment.  Easy Banana Hair Masks for Dry, Damaged Hair The easiest way to make a hair mask is to mash that banana to a pulp. Lumps are more likely to stick, so use beaters if necessary to create a creamy consistency. Then, mix banana with your favorite relaxing or replenishing herbs, such as lavender or fenugreek and add an extra conditioning ingredient for extra softness or special hair needs, such as: Honey Olive oil  Avocado Egg Yogurt Argan oil  Aloe vera Papaya Ensure you wash the mask out of your hair before it completely dries. Letting it get crunchy can result in a frustrating time when you go to rinse.  How to Make Banana Curls Tight ringlets are called many things, but the most iconic name has to be the banana curl. You can use many methods to achieve your banana curls, but these are some of the best. Try something new — you may just love the results! Heated Methods You have two basic methods for using heat to create banana curls.  1. Curling Iron When you use a curling iron, you put heat onto your hair. If you want to protect your hair from any potential frizz or heat damage, make sure you use a good heat protecting spray beforehand. Curls work best when you're working with "dirty" hair — that is, hair you haven't washed right before — but you can still curl your hair when it's been freshly washed. The size of your curling iron determines the size of the curls. If you want tight, ringlet curls that you can brush out into a style you like, use a barrel with a smaller diameter. Curling irons with a smaller barrel means that your coils will last longer.  2. Dryer  This method requires you to employ one of the non-heat styling methods outlined below but accelerates the process. All you need to do is subject your wrapped curls to the blow dryer, taking frequent breaks, as it can feel hot. Alternatively, if you can locate an old-fashioned bonnet hair dryer — or an updated version with a modern twist — you can kick back and enjoy a novel while your style sets.  Non-Heat Methods  Many people try to stay away from using heat on their hair. Using heat on your hair without any protection can cause damage to the outer shell, which can lead to breakage or even hair loss. Eating the right diet can protect your hair, but so can avoiding heat sources. 1. Pin Curls  For the ultimate in springy banana curls, use the pin curl method. You’ll begin with wet hair, and you’ll need a big stack of bobby pins, or, better yet, duckbill hair clips that snap into place — they’re easier to maneuver and keep in place overnight.  Divide your hair into small sections — the tinier the section, the tighter the curl. Twirl each group of strands around your finger until they start to curl in upon themselves. Pin the tight coils right against your head and secure it with a bobby pin or duckbill clip. Placing a breathable fishnet hair net over your coils protects them overnight. Release them in the morning for a headful of springy curls.  Pro-tip: Apply gel or mousse to your tresses before making the curls. You’ll have springy style that lasts all day.  2. Rags  Another method is taking strips of rag and using them to secure your curls. This method keeps the hair closest to your head straight, flipping the ends and creating a softer style than pins.  Begin with damp tresses and apply mousse or gel for a longer-lasting hold. Twist a small section of hair along a strip of rag — one to 2-inch strips work well. Tie the fabric in place, continuing until you roll all of your hair. As a bonus, many people find rags easier to sleep in than pins.  3. Curlers  You can also buy specialty curlers to create banana curls. Some sets come with various sized rollers, allowing you to make tiny, face-framing curls and larger waves in the back. You can choose from hard or soft styles — the foam ones are more comfortable if you plan on letting your style dry naturally overnight.  4. Any Round Stick  While you don’t have to go for the “Pebbles” look, tying a bone in your hair like the child from “The Flintstones,” you can use any round stick to create banana curls. For example, repurpose old paper towel rolls before composting them to make big, wavy banana curls. Plastic straws are a nightmare for the environment, but they hold a bobby pin — find a positive use for those party leftovers lingering in your kitchen drawer.  Use Banana Curls for a Fun and Formal Hairstyle Banana curls are perfect for just about any occasion. Whether you're attending a formal event or a casual party, you can style your curls to fit any celebration. It might take some practice to achieve the perfect loop, but once you work with your hair, you'll understand more about it and what it needs to hold the shape of banana curls. Once you figure out which method works best for you, you'll be a pro and can teach others about these unique, versatile curls.

Hair loss in women can be a traumatic experience, especially since most women attach their identities to their luscious manes. When you begin noticing thinning hair, it could bring a sense of extreme panic and loss.  Fortunately, you can try numerous treatment options and lifestyle changes to achieve healthy hair regrowth. Allow this helpful guide to explain why hair loss occurs and what solutions are available.  What Causes Hair Loss in Women? Thinning is typical of the hair cycle — on average, there are 100,000 hair follicles on the scalp that enter various stages of growth, fallout and regeneration. Most people lose 50-100 hairs daily in this natural process. When the cycle becomes disrupted, or the follicle cannot regenerate as quickly, you begin noticing a difference.  You're not alone if you're experiencing significant thinning — nearly 50% of women experience hair loss throughout their lifetime, which is often embarrassing and emotionally distressing.  There are many causes of hair loss in women, including the following: Pregnancy and childbirth Hereditary predisposition Hormonal changes Vitamin D deficiency Iron deficiency Low-caloric intake and crash diets Chronic stress and depression Medications and supplements Excessive hairstyling New research suggests hair loss was common in patients with COVID-19. In fact, 62.5% of people developed hair loss symptoms a month after diagnosis, while 47.8% showed signs of significant thinning at least 12 weeks later. Another study found that 15% of Black women develop central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia — a condition in which hair loss occurs around the center or crown of the scalp. This is because certain conditions — particularly breast cancer, high cholesterol, diabetes and high blood pressure — are higher among people of color.  Treatment Options for Hair Loss The earlier hair loss in women is detected, the better the chances of correcting the issue. Fortunately, modern medicine has paved the way for new hair solutions and treatment options to stimulate growth and rejuvenate long, healthy locks.  Minoxidil Minoxidil — also known as Rogaine — is the most widely prescribed treatment for hair thinning. Initially, it was given to patients with high blood pressure who noticed hair growth when they began taking it. Since discovering it can stimulate regrowth, the Food and Drug Administration approved a 2% over-the-counter solution for women. There is also a 5% solution for those who need more potent medicine.  The drug is not a cure-all — although it can encourage new growth, it can't restore hair density. It also takes about two to four months before you notice any difference. However, some women say they don't see results until six to 12 months of consistent use.  Spironolactone Anti-androgens may be another option for women who have hormonal imbalances, such as polycystic ovarian syndrome. Androgens are a male hormone that causes male-patterned baldness in women with excess production.  An endocrinologist can prescribe spironolactone to block the androgens, helping to balance your hormones, eliminate unwanted hirsutism and the correct hair growth on your head. If spironolactone doesn't work, another medicine like finasteride may be better.  Supplements Ask your doctor to run bloodwork to determine if you have a vitamin deficiency. Often, a lack of adequate nutrients in your system goes unnoticed. Simple changes in your vitamin intake could be all you need to promote hair growth again. Hair Transplant A hair transplant is a drastic step in restoring your hair, but it is available to those with significant female-patterned hair loss. Early transplants entailed filling bald areas with a piece of scalp from the back of the head. However, new techniques are far less invasive and more effective.  Most specialists use the follicular unit transplant method, removing a strip of skin with hair follicles from the back of the head and placing it over the correct spot. In another method — the follicular unit extraction method — doctors remove individual hair follicles from the back of the scalp without removing any skin. They then transplant the hair follicles individually in the balding area.  4 Tips for Women's Hair Health Thinning hair weighs heavily on most women. Naturally, you'll want to know how to encourage hair growth and strengthening. Here are four tips to restore your hair's health for beautiful, long-lasting strands.  1. Gentle Care You can actually damage your locks more if you try too vigorously to correct female-patterned hair loss. It's much better to take a more gentle approach to hair health. Opt for a clarifying shampoo or a product designed specifically for thinning strands. Brush your hair with a wide-toothed comb and allow it to air dry — the less heat you apply, the better.  Likewise, avoid tying your hair back in a tight ponytail or braids. While these styles are pretty and add variation to your looks, they may cause you to lose more hair. Attempt looser versions of these hairstyles instead.   2. Proper Nutrition Because vitamin deficiencies are a factor of hair loss in women, the key to healthier hair is ensuring your body is nourished with the essential nutrients. Eat a diet rich in protein, zinc, iron, and vitamins A, C, D and E to achieve the mane you've always dreamed of. Additionally, biotin — or vitamin B7 — stimulates keratin production and boosts follicle development. 3. Scalp Massage  A regular scalp massage feels great and helps improve circulation and encourage hair growth. Gently rub your scalp in circular motions once or twice daily to get the blood flowing. You might make it part of your morning or nighttime routine or take a few extra minutes in the shower to do this. 4. Stress Management Learning how to cope with stress could significantly reduce hair loss. Explore relation techniques like yoga, meditation and deep breathing exercises to keep your worries at bay. Another avenue is seeking a therapist or social group to discuss your concerns.  Don't Let Hair Loss Run Your Life Indeed, hair loss is enough to make any woman feel less-than, but it isn't an indicator of your beauty or worth. You can try several things to restore your hair to its glory days. Otherwise, you can attempt a new haircut or learn to embrace your new look for what it is.

Castor oil has been getting a lot of hype on social media. TikTok influencers and wellness gurus rave about its benefits, from glowing skin to luscious hair. It seems like everyone is talking about its magical properties, but does it really work?  Castor oil is an older remedy for various ailments. For centuries, people have used it mainly for its beauty benefits. Yet, it also has other healing properties and can be a natural remedy that you can easily integrate into your regular self-care routine. What Is Castor Oil? Castor oil is a thick, pale yellow liquid derived from the castor plant. It is rich in ricinoleic acid, a moisturizing fatty acid that offers serious hydration. Many value it for its medicinal and therapeutic properties, and its traditional uses range from skin conditions to digestive issues. Castor oil is available in many food stores, pharmacies and online retailers. It’s often available in pure form or as an ingredient in many beauty and wellness products. Yet, one of its major appeals to consumers is its natural origin.  People prefer it because many are seeking “clean” health and skin care. It offers a holistic approach, promising a range of benefits without the harsh chemicals found in many treatments. Plus, its reputation has grown wildly in the beauty and wellness sphere and has become the go-to solution for beauty enthusiasts. How Castor Oil Benefits You Castor oil is a popular solution to health issues due to its multifaceted benefits. 1. Skin Moisturization One of castor oil's top uses is skin care. This plant extract has moisturizing properties that provide intense hydration. Its fatty acids are rich and can penetrate the skin’s surface, providing a top layer that locks in moisture.  That said, castor oil is an excellent remedy for dry, flaky or rough skin. Its thick consistency forms a protective barrier, preventing hydration loss and leaving the skin feeling supple. Additionally, it is packed with antioxidants that fight free radicals that make skin look dull and dry. Castor oil is easy to use as a moisturizer. You can apply a small amount directly to dry areas. However, its thick texture takes time for full absorption, so mixing it with other carrier oils like coconut or jojoba oil may make more sense.  2. Hair Growth and Health Castor oil has also gained significant popularity for its benefits in promoting hair growth and overall hair health. While no scientific evidence proves castor oil can stimulate hair growth, many people swear by its effects based on personal experience. Researchers know that its ricinoleic acid stimulates the blood flow in the scalp, making hair appear fuller and shinier. As such, it makes a favorite among those looking to gain luscious locks. Despite its lack of scientific backing, castor oil is still an excellent source of moisturization for the scalp and hair strands. It contains omega-9 fatty acids and vitamin E, which increase each hair strand’s elasticity and reduce breakage.  To use castor oil for hair care, start by massaging a small amount into your scalp and throughout your hair. You can leave it on for an hour or overnight, whichever you desire. Yet, be sure to wash it out completely, as it will leave your hair feeling super oily.  3. Skin Healing and Scar Reduction Another way castor oil benefits you is by healing your skin and reducing scars or wrinkles. Thanks to its high concentration of fatty acids, castor oil contains antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. This means it can help heal minor cuts, bruises and skin irritations while preventing infections. Additionally, the thick substance creates a protective barrier over wounds, allowing your skin to heal more effectively. Applying castor oil regularly to scars, stretch marks, and wrinkles can also help. It diminishes their appearance over time, making your skin look smoother and more even. Just apply a small amount to the affected area and gently massage it on a daily basis to improve the appearance. 4. Digestive Health Did you know that you can ingest castor oil? It makes the go-to remedy for digestive issues like constipation and is FDA approved! For generations, people have turned to castor oil as a natural laxative. When consumed, castor oil breaks down into the small intestines and increases muscle movement, which pushes stool through the digestive tract. However, it’s essential to use this oil carefully. Because it works quite powerfully, it’s recommended to take it in small doses. Smaller amounts also help absorb it faster. A dose of 4g will take one to three hours to start working. A typical method for ingesting castor oil involves mixing a small amount with juice to mask the taste. While many people use it for its effectiveness, doctors recommend using it infrequently to prevent other gastrointestinal (GI) problems. Too much can lead to cramping and diarrhea.  5. Menstrual Cramp Relief Many people know castor oil for its primary benefits, but some are unaware of its ability to alleviate menstrual cramps. When applied topically, the vegetable oil can soothe muscles and reduce pain with its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. Most people find relief using castor oil packs, which involve soaking a cloth and placing them on the lower abdomen. This method allows the oil to penetrate deeply into the tissues, promoting relaxation and easing the cramping sensation. Consider trying this remedy at home. Just be sure to cover the cloth with a plastic wrap to avoid staining your clothes. You can leave it on for approximately 25 minutes for it to take effect. Side Effects of Castor Oil Castor oil offers numerous benefits, but it’s important to use it safely to prevent potential side effects. When applied externally and internally, It can cause the following issues: Skin irritation Swelling Itching Stomach cramps Nausea Diarrhea Dehydration Before you use it topically, it’s best to perform a patch test by applying a small amount to your skin. Then, you should wait at least 24 hours to see if any adverse reactions occur. When ingested, you should only use it temporarily for short-term relief.  In rare cases, it can cause a severe allergic reaction. If you experience symptoms such as difficulty breathing, face or throat swelling, or severe abdominal pain, seek medical help immediately.  Enjoy the Benefits of Castor Oil If you’re looking for a health and beauty care remedy, castor oil takes the stage. It offers many useful benefits that provide natural remedies to numerous health issues. However, you should use it carefully. By implementing castor oil responsibly into your wellness routine, you can reap its nourishing properties for a healthier you. 

Tags: hair care, hairstyle https://unsplash.com/photos/shallow-focus-photography-of-woman-looking-back-while-walking-X1qYpsg3qy8 Your hairstyle says a lot about you and makes an impression on people before you even say a word. You want to be noticed for all the right reasons, and sometimes, the best way to do that is to take a chance on a bold new cut. Curtain bangs provide that opportunity by showcasing your face in the best way possible. Here’s how to style short curtain bangs so you look your very best, exude confidence and attract attention. Get ready to own your new look. What Are Curtain Bangs? You know what bangs are. They seem pretty straightforward, but there are many types and nuances that make them unique. They can be short and blunt, soft and rounded, long and sideswept — the options are nearly endless. Add curtain bangs to the list. This style appears to open in the middle of your face and frame it like a curtain on a stage — hence the name. Curtain bangs are generally soft and slightly tapered, with the middle shorter than the sides. The style is universally flattering since it’s not a severe look and it tends to have lots of texture. Plus, they are easier to grow out since they blend so well with the rest of your hair, making it easy to rock a retro ‘70s middle part as they lengthen.  Styling Products to Have on Hand https://unsplash.com/photos/portrait-of-woman-wearing-black-top-FrcuAGk9RAk You need the right tools to learn how to style short curtain bangs so they look their best. Consider adding the following to your beauty arsenal: Heat protectant: You’ll be using blow dryers, curling irons and curling brushes, so do your hair a favor and pick up a product to protect it from the intense heat. Texturizing spray: Volumizing sprays and dry shampoos will provide your hair with lift and add body with a light hold. Paddle or round brush: You’ll use these on your hair when blowing it dry to give your style direction and a slight curve. Hair dryer or heated curling brush: You likely have a hair dryer, but consider adding a heated curling brush to your repertoire for added bounce.  Hairspray: Use a light hold hairspray so your bangs still have movement — you don’t want helmet head. How to Style Short Curtain Bangs Once you arm yourself with the cut, the tools and the know-how, it’s time to take matters into your own hands. Start with clean, towel-dried hair. You’ll want it to be damp but not ringing wet when using heated styling products so you cause less damage. After adding heat protectant, use your blow dryer and brush or heated curling brush to dry and style your bangs.  Add lift to the roots and brush the bangs back and away from your face. Use your tools’ cooling feature when nearly dry to help set the style in place. Once completely cool, add texturizing spray and lift and shape with your fingers. Finish with a mist of hairspray so you have light hold that still allows movement. Different Short Curtain Bang Styles https://unsplash.com/photos/a-woman-wearing-sunglasses-xAQ73zllhnc Short curtain bangs can mean different things to different people. Although the general cut is universal, there are several ways to show off this look. Here’s how to style short curtain bangs in various ways and make the most of your appearance. Pixie cut: If you’re going to go short, why not go all out? A pixie is as short as it gets, and it’s a great low-maintenance style. Curtain bangs add even more to this look, whether a shorter baby-bang or a softer fringe. Short bob: A classic bob gets an upgrade with short curtain bangs. This retro look is attention-getting and will never go out of style. Center-parted bangs create symmetry while grazing and emphasizing the cheekbones. Blunt bob: This is a great look for short hair. Opt for a straight razor cut to provide movement. Use a round brush on your bangs to add curvature and enhance your appearance. Wavy hair: Opt for a shoulder-length cut with curtain bangs that showcase the eyes and sweep over the eyebrows. Use a curling brush or iron to create beachy waves for a carefree, windblown look. Asymmetrical swing: Short curtain bangs go perfectly with a cut that’s longer in the front than in the back. This bold yet simple style certainly stands out from the crowd while being easy to maintain. Swoopy bangs: There are about a million ways to wear a bob, and one stunning option is to add a bit of layering to a longer lob. Use your styling tools to add lots of lift and a side swoop to your bangs for standout style. Retro ’70s: Channel your inner Marcia Brady and go with a full-on center part with straight hair. Keep the bangs straight as well to frame each side of your face at about eye level. Shag bob: Try a chin-length shag bob with fringy curtain bangs. Have your stylist cut your hair with a razor to nail this look, and use a curling iron on the tips to enhance the textured, wispy appearance. Curly hair: Curtain bangs look great with curly hair. They blend effortlessly and are a great way to enhance natural curls. Use styling products made for your hair type to hold your locks in place and encourage bounce. Flipped bangs: Curtain bangs can look dramatic when you give them a larger-than-life ‘70s swoop. Use a curling iron or brush to obtain that Farrah Fawcett feather with a modern twist. Edgy bob: Inject your bob with some drama by asking for a jaw-length edgy cut. This short style has a bit of length to frame your face, and the middle-parted curtain bangs add the right amount of drama. Learn How to Style Short Curtain Bangs for Maximum Impact If you want to turn heads with your hairstyle, add curtain bangs. They are classic yet modern at the same time and can be worn in many different ways. Once you know how to style short curtain bangs, you can experiment with various looks until you find the one that suits you best. Have fun with your hair and stand out from the crowd with this bold, trendy and timeless cut.

It’s pretty common to hear about kids playing in mud, but adults can join in on the fun, too. Mud baths have been available in spas for years now, though many are less inclined to get dirty at a place for relaxation. Why should you schedule one the next time you want a refresh? Benefits of Mud Bathing Surprisingly, baths with a bit of dirt have a whole host of benefits. Check out these fantastic positives you could experience. Skin Health Of course, the most notable plus to a mud bath is what it does for your skin. Mud is full of minerals that can help with many different skin ailments. For example, the sulfur it contains can help clear up acne and eliminate bacteria. Geothermal mud can include a mix of sodium, titanium, calcium, iron, phosphorous, potassium and more. Hearth Health Frequent baths in warm water can do a lot for your heart. Studies from Japan and Finland found that the number of times one spends bathing or in a sauna per week can lower the risk of cardiovascular disease and reduce blood pressure. The authors of the Finnish study said this could be because of better cholesterol levels and less inflammation. While these researchers examined water baths, these benefits can surely extend to mud. Mud baths are warmed to the same temperature as your regular bath water, so the more you take them, the more positives you might see. Arthritis Treatment Because of that soothing warmth, mud bathing is emerging as an arthritis treatment. According to research from 2021, mud has been successful in helping those with knee osteoarthritis, with some success for psoriatic arthritis. Researchers also said they saw joint function and quality of life improve. Since the mud also holds heat much better than water, your soak will be comfortable the whole time. Pain Reduction According to the same study, mud baths have shown some merit in relieving back pain and one of their main effects is in pain reduction. Heat helps your blood vessels open up, which allows more blood to access the affected area. The influx of nutrients and oxygen assists in healing the injury or loosening stiff joints. Stress Relief It’s hard not to feel at peace when you’re in a nice, warm bath. However, there’s also a special bacteria in dirt — Mycobacterium vaccae — that can reduce stress. It displayed the incredible ability to activate serotonin neurons, lowering anxiety and improving the learning capabilities of rodents in the test. In a 2004 study, M. vaccae injections boosted the vitality and happiness of lung cancer patients. When Did People Start Mud Bathing? Bathing with mud or using mud on the skin has occurred in cultures worldwide for thousands of years. The Mayans used it to protect themselves from mosquitoes and the intense sun. If you wanted to take an overseas trip, you could visit the mud baths Cleopatra herself used in Turkey. Allegedly, the Egyptian queen loved bathing in Pamukkale's sulfur-rich mud and thermal pools, so much so that Marc Antony gifted her one in her namesake. Now, it’s a beloved tourist destination and a UNESCO World Heritage site. If you’re wondering about the usefulness of these baths, know you’re in the company of historical icons when you take one. How to Take Your First Mud Bath Diving right into the mud can feel a bit intimidating. Here’s what you can expect from a spa treatment and ways to replenish yourself at home. What a Spa Mud Bath Is Like You’ll prepare for your experience at a spa by undressing to your comfort level. Plenty of people love to enter the mud in their birthday suits, but many others will wear a bathing suit. If that’s more your style, make sure you use a bikini, one-piece or pair of shorts you don’t mind ruining — mud stains. Once you’re ready, you’ll enter the room where the mud baths are. Every spa is different — some might use a free-standing tub, while others might set them into the floor so you can lower yourself down into the mixture. Either way, you’ll enjoy a muddy soak for up to half an hour, likely followed by a treatment like a massage or sauna. How to Mud Bathe at Home If you don’t mind making a bit of a mess, you can make a mud bath at home. However, there are a few things you need to keep in mind before you climb in. First, you can’t just go outside and scoop dirt into your bathtub. These treatments require specific kinds of mud from around the world that are full of minerals. You can either find such clay online, or start with a basic one and add the good stuff as necessary. Mix the clay with aloe vera paste or milk powder in a non-metal bowl with a non-metal utensil. To get the bath going, add boiled tap water or spring water to wherever you plan to bathe, along with the powder mixture. You want the mixture to be loose enough for you to coat yourself in but thick enough to stay on your skin. Relax in the bath for up to 30 minutes. While your mud bath will be slightly cooler than a sauna, limiting your time in it is vital to avoid getting lightheaded or dehydrated. The heat can cause your blood pressure to drop, so those with serious heart or blood pressure issues should stick to mud masks. When you’re done, let your body return to its average temperature before going out into the cold and give yourself a glass of water to restore any moisture you lost in the hot tub. Start Experiencing the Benefits of Mud Baths People have taken mud baths for thousands of years, so why not try one? There’s a plethora of positives you could gain from doing so. If your skin could use a bit of TLC, your arthritis is flaring up, or you need a bit of pain or stress relief, this treatment could be an excellent addition to your beauty regimen.