Latest news with #natural
Yahoo
18-07-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Applications for New Mexico Young Ambassadors program due by August 15
NEW MEXICO (KRQE) – High schoolers have one more month to apply for a leadership position to help the governor with her goal of keeping New Mexico clean and natural. Kids entering their junior or senior year of high school can spend the school year helping their community stay litter-free. Curbside debris pickup available in Lincoln County Selected ambassadors will help organize projects and work with other peers on a statewide project. They will earn a $3,000 participation stipend upon completion. Only two applicants will be selected from each of the 6 designated areas. Applications close August 15 Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. Solve the daily Crossword
CTV News
15-07-2025
- Business
- CTV News
24-hour health food convenience store to open in Ottawa's ByWard Market
People looking for a healthy option as the sun rises will soon have a new spot in Ottawa's ByWard Market. Montreal-based KaleMart24 will be opening its doors on William Street on July 23, offering all-natural and local products for 24-hours, seven-days a week. 'We're not like a classic convenience store, and we're not like a grab-and-go restaurant,' Sam Saoudi, founder and CEO of KaleMart24, told CTV News Ottawa. 'We offer all the classic categories of a convenience store, alcohol, chocolate, chips, gums, all that, but it's natural brands with no preservatives, no additives and no chemicals in the products. Saoudi says he had the idea for the business while in engineering school and realized there was a gap in offerings for quick, healthy products at his local Montreal depanneur. The franchise opened two stores in Montreal in March 2024 and a third in September 2024. Along with its ByWard Market location, a store will be opening in Gatineau's Hull sector as soon as Monday. Saoudi plans to open more franchises in Toronto and Kitchener. 'We've had an overwhelming response,' he said. KaleMart24's website shows a variety of options from bowls, salads, smoothies, acai bowls, wraps and sandwiches. Grab-and-go classics like coffee, tea and pastries are also on offer. Saoudi says he wanted to open the first Ottawa location in the market because of the amount of traffic in the area from locals and tourists, despite growing concerns over social disorder in the area. 'We wanted to showcase the brand in Ottawa in a very high food traffic location to make people discover the brand and see what we're doing,' he said. 'Ottawa is a great market. We have a lot of franchisees that are very interested in the area and I think bringing more great stores and great opportunities in this city would help lower that bad reputation that certain streets in Ottawa have.' The ByWard Market area has been without a 24-hour establishment since the closure of the notorious Rideau Street McDonald's in 2023. The Elgin Street Diner and Kettlemans Bagels also offer all-day, all-night service.
Geeky Gadgets
15-07-2025
- Geeky Gadgets
iPhone Photography Trick: Instantly Improve Your Photos
Reflection photography offers a captivating way to add depth and creativity to your images, transforming ordinary scenes into visually compelling compositions. With your iPhone and a few practical techniques, you can explore the art of capturing reflections to create unique perspectives. The awesome video below from iPhone Photography School will help you identify reflective surfaces, optimize your camera settings, and experiment with creative approaches to elevate your photography skills. Watch this video on YouTube. Spotting Reflective Surfaces The foundation of reflective photography lies in recognizing reflective surfaces in your surroundings. These surfaces are abundant in both natural and urban environments, offering endless opportunities for creative compositions. By training your eye to notice them, you can uncover hidden photographic potential. Common reflective surfaces include: Water: Look for puddles, lakes, rivers, or even wet sand after rain. Look for puddles, lakes, rivers, or even wet sand after rain. Glass: Explore windows, glass walls, or smooth storefronts for intriguing reflections. Explore windows, glass walls, or smooth storefronts for intriguing reflections. Shiny objects: Polished cars, metallic surfaces, or even ice can serve as reflective canvases. Slowing down and observing your environment with a creative mindset is key. By paying attention to light, angles, and textures, you'll begin to see reflections in places you might have previously overlooked. Techniques to Capture Stunning Reflections Once you've identified a reflective surface, the way you position your iPhone and compose your shot plays a significant role in the final image. Here are some effective techniques to enhance your reflection photography: Use a low angle: Position your iPhone close to the reflective surface to create a mirror-like effect, making the reflection more vivid and immersive. Position your iPhone close to the reflective surface to create a mirror-like effect, making the reflection more vivid and immersive. Focus on symmetry: Symmetrical compositions are naturally pleasing to the eye and emphasize the harmony between the subject and its reflection. Symmetrical compositions are naturally pleasing to the eye and emphasize the harmony between the subject and its reflection. Blend reality and reflection: Experiment with positioning your subject within the reflection to create layered or surreal effects. For instance, capture a person walking through a puddle or a building mirrored in a car window. Urban environments, in particular, provide a wealth of reflective surfaces. From glass skyscrapers to rain-soaked streets, these settings encourage experimentation and creativity. Fine-Tuning Your Camera Settings To achieve professional-looking reflection photos, it's essential to adjust your iPhone's camera settings for optimal results. Here are some tips to get started: Lock focus and exposure: Tap and hold on your subject to lock focus and exposure. This ensures the camera doesn't inadvertently shift focus to the reflective surface itself. Tap and hold on your subject to lock focus and exposure. This ensures the camera doesn't inadvertently shift focus to the reflective surface itself. Adjust exposure: Use the on-screen slider to brighten or darken your image. Proper exposure enhances contrast and ensures your subject stands out against the reflection. Use the on-screen slider to brighten or darken your image. Proper exposure enhances contrast and ensures your subject stands out against the reflection. Use burst mode: For dynamic scenes, such as rippling water or moving subjects, burst mode captures multiple frames in quick succession, increasing your chances of getting the perfect shot. These adjustments allow you to take greater control of your images, helping you capture reflections with clarity and precision. Exploring Urban Reflection Photography Cities are a treasure trove for reflection photography, offering a mix of natural and man-made reflective surfaces. To make the most of urban settings, consider the following strategies: Keep it simple: Avoid visual clutter by positioning your subject against a clean background, such as a reflected sky or minimalist architectural lines. Avoid visual clutter by positioning your subject against a clean background, such as a reflected sky or minimalist architectural lines. Experiment with post-processing: Use editing tools to flip reflection images, creating surreal effects or introducing unexpected perspectives. Use editing tools to flip reflection images, creating surreal effects or introducing unexpected perspectives. Play with light: Reflections often appear more dramatic during golden hour or after rain, when surfaces are wet and light is softer. Urban environments encourage bold experimentation. Don't hesitate to explore unconventional angles, compositions, or lighting conditions to create striking images. Practical Tips for Success Reflection photography requires patience, creativity, and attention to detail. To improve your results, keep these practical tips in mind: Frame carefully: Pay attention to symmetry and eliminate distractions in the background that could detract from your composition. Pay attention to symmetry and eliminate distractions in the background that could detract from your composition. Be patient: Wait for the right moment, especially when photographing moving subjects or dynamic reflections, such as ripples in water. Wait for the right moment, especially when photographing moving subjects or dynamic reflections, such as ripples in water. Practice regularly: The more you practice, the better you'll become at spotting reflective surfaces and composing creative shots. With consistent practice, you'll develop an intuitive sense for capturing reflections, whether in serene natural settings or bustling cityscapes. Over time, your ability to see and photograph reflections will become second nature, allowing you to create images that stand out and tell compelling visual stories. Check out more relevant guides from our extensive collection on iPhone photography that you might find useful. Source & Image Credit: iPhone Photography School Filed Under: Apple, Apple iPhone, Guides Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
Health Line
16-06-2025
- Health
- Health Line
10 Benefits of Using Aloe Vera on Your Face
Aloe vera has healing properties that may benefit burns, itching, acne, and other health conditions affecting the skin. Aloe vera is perhaps one of the most widely used herbal remedies for topical skin conditions. This is because the gel-like components of the plant are known to heal the skin from a variety of minor ailments. You might have even used aloe in the past for sunburn, minor cuts, or small abrasions. Despite its healing powers, you may be wondering if it's safe to use on your face. Generally speaking, the answer is yes. When used correctly, aloe vera can help with various ailments that might affect your skin. However, some people may have a sensitivity to it that can cause skin irritation. It's best to test any new product, including aloe vera, on a small area of your skin until you know how your skin reacts to it. Keep reading to learn the possible benefits. Aloe vera gel vs. plant The aloe vera we use on our skin in over-the-counter (OTC) gels is derived from plants of the same name. There's more than one kind of aloe, with an estimated 420 different species. The most commonly used form for skin conditions is a plant called Aloe barbadensis Miller. In conventional medicine, aloe vera is used as a topical gel, which is made from the gel-like substance inside the plant's leaves. It's also possible to use the leaves directly by breaking them apart and pressing out the gel. However, it's much easier to use gel that's ready to go, especially in the case of emergency burns and wounds. OTC aloe gel may also contain other skin-soothing ingredients, such as echinacea and calendula. Benefits of aloe vera on the face Using aloe vera gel or products that contain it on the face may have benefits for certain skin issues. If you have a chronic skin condition or have concerning skin symptoms, it's a good idea to check with a dermatologist before applying any products to your face. Talk with your doctor about the following potential benefits of aloe vera. 1. Burns Aloe may help speed up the healing of minor burns. A 2023 review of research compared topical aloe vera gel to silver sulfadiazine and other herbal remedies on people with second-degree burns. Multiple studies found that aloe vera is more effective. Its antimicrobial properties may also help prevent infection. It may also help with burns from radiation therapy. However, if you have a second-degree or worse burn, it's best to practice first aid for burns and talk with a doctor before treating it at home, especially if the burn is large. Severe burns require urgent medical attention. For minor burns, apply aloe vera gel to the affected area. You may also need to protect the area with gauze. 2. Sunburn The American Academy of Dermatology Association recommends using a product containing aloe vera to soothe sunburn. It may have moisturizing and anti-inflammatory effects that can help relieve discomfort. However, it's important to note that research doesn't suggest aloe vera heals or prevents sunburn. 3. Small abrasions It may also help support wound healing. If you've scuffed up your chin or forehead, you can try applying aloe vera for relief from pain and burning sensations. 4. Cuts If you don't have Neosporin for a minor cut, you can try applying aloe vera instead. Its molecular structure helps heal wounds and minimizes scarring by supporting collagen production and reducing the risk of bacterial growth in the wound. 5. Dry skin Aloe vera gel absorbs easily, making it ideal for oily skin. However, it can help treat dry skin, too. Consider using aloe vera in addition to your regular moisturizer to help seal moisture into your skin. 6. Cold sores Unlike canker sores, cold sores develop on the outside of your mouth. Aloe vera may help treat the herpes virus, which is also the underlying cause of cold sores. Apply a small amount of the gel to your cold sore twice daily until it goes away. 7. Acne Due to the anti-inflammatory effects of aloe vera, the gel may help treat inflammatory forms of acne, such as pustules and nodules. Apply the gel with a cotton swab directly to the pimple three times daily. The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) suggests that aloe vera may help relieve acne when used in conjunction with other forms of treatment. 8. Psoriasis Aloe vera may help relieve inflammation and itchiness from psoriasis. For best results, apply aloe vera gel twice daily to the affected area of skin. 9. Eczema The moisturizing effects of aloe may possibly help relieve discomfort of dry, itchy skin associated with eczema or seborrheic dermatitis. While this oily form of eczema is most often found on the scalp, it can also affect parts of your face and behind the ears. However, research hasn't shown that it's effective for treating eczema. 10. Frostbite People historically used aloe vera for frostbite, and research suggests it may have some effectiveness. However, frostbite is a serious condition that requires emergency medical treatment. Medical treatments are more effective than aloe vera for frostbite. If you may have frostbite, it's best to practice first aid for frostbite and get urgent medical care, especially if your frostbite is stage 2 or more severe. What to look for when selecting aloe vera The insides of an aloe plant's leaves are the most potent form of aloe vera gel. However, not everyone has an aloe plant hanging around their house. In such cases, OTC products work just as well. For the best results, look for a gel that lists aloe vera as its main ingredient. For skin ailments, aloe vera extracts don't work as well as gel. This is because the gel itself has moisturizing elements to protect and heal the skin. Side effects and cautions While considered safe in topical form when used as directed, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) doesn't regulate aloe vera products. This means that it's up to you, the consumer, to use aloe vera safely and to report any adverse skin reactions to your doctor. It's also best to avoid aloe vera as a remedy if you have a severe burn or other significant wounds. These require emergency medical attention. Not getting urgent medical treatment may increase your risk of serious complications. Some users may experience itching or slight burning as the aloe vera begins to work. However, if you experience a rash or hives, you could have a sensitivity to the gel and should stop using it immediately. Do not use aloe vera gel on infected skin. While the gel has microbial properties, its protective layer may possibly disrupt the healing process and worsen an infection. The bottom line Aloe vera may be a source of natural treatment for a variety of skin ailments. Still, the NCCIH says there's not enough definitive evidence to support all the purported benefits of aloe, though it's safe when used on the skin. Remember that topical aloe gel isn't the same as using the plant directly on your face. If you use aloe vera on your skin and don't see any improvements within a few days, it's best to talk with a doctor, such as a dermatologist. They can help with specific concerns you have regarding your overall skin health.
Vogue Arabia
02-06-2025
- Health
- Vogue Arabia
SPF Tints & Sheer Everything: The Ultimate Summer Swap for a Makeup Detox
Summer has officially entered the chat—and if you live in Dubai, you know what that means. The moment you step outside, your makeup starts to melt. Your full-coverage foundation? It doesn't stand a chance against the city's intense humidity. The Dubai sun doesn't mess around, and neither should your beauty routine. This summer, a makeup detox is essential—build a routine that has a skin-first approach. Your makeup can deliver an effortless, radiant glow, all while allowing your skin to breathe—the two aspects aren't mutually exclusive. And newsflash: real skin has texture, blemishes, freckles, and all the perfectly imperfect things that make us human. This season, let your makeup enhance—not hide—your natural beauty. Aim to amplify your glow, not erase your individuality. Besides the aesthetically natural appeal, lightweight makeup works better in summer because it prevents your pores from clogging in the heat. How does that work? The rise in temperatures can cause your sebaceous glands to produce more oil—combine this with heavily formulated products and you have blocked pores plus comedonal acne (blackheads and whiteheads) on your hands. In addition to that, thick layers have a tendency to interfere with your skin's natural cooling mechanism through perspiration—lightweight makeup will allow your skin to thermoregulate. Don't know where to begin and what to replace? Let us help you build a simple makeup routine with products that carry skincare benefits. Dewy sunscreens Sun protection is non-negotiable, especially if you live in the UAE. Thanks to the new-age beauty brands, we have sunscreens that have evolved beyond the thick, chalky formulas of the past and don't even leave behind a visible white cast. If you struggle with dry skin, stick to cream-based formulas. For those with oily and acne-prone skin, gel is your safest bet. Sticks and mists are only recommended for targeted application or reapplication. Brands like Kosas, with their DreamBeam formula, or Ultra Violette's Queen Screen SPF 50+ Luminizing Skinscreen, all focus on protecting your skin while giving it an illuminating glow. SPF-infused skin tints If the thought of wearing a heavy foundation in summer doesn't make your skin crawl, you're yet to experience the GCC sun in full throttle. Recently, the full-coverage foundations with an opaque appearance have taken a back seat, allowing skin tints to have a moment in the sun (see what we did there?). SPF-infused skin tints are the ultimate summer multitasker, offering lightweight coverage with built-in sun protection. These formulas even out your complexion without the weight or potential for creasing that comes with traditional foundation. They're perfect for the UAE's climate because they offer protection while letting your natural skin show through. Hourglass, Urban Decay, Milk Makeup and Anastasia Beverly Hills have mastered this category with formulas that adapt to your skin tone seamlessly. Cream blushes Powder blushes have their own appeal, but during summer they tend to settle into your pores, fade faster and leave a blotchy finish (as opposed to the sun-kissed flush you were going for). Cream-based blushes are the summer holy grail that blend seamlessly into your skin and are less likely to fade or crack in the heat. Try ILIA's Multi-Stick or Milk Makeup's Cooling Water Jelly Tint, which has a sheer effect and can be used as a lip and cheek stain. Tanning drops We all love a good tan, but why risk sun damage when you can create the bronze goddess vibe with equally efficient and natural-looking products? Tanning drops or lotions are perfect to get that ideal olive shade in an even way. Whind's Instant Glow Tinting Water offers this bronze boost while keeping skin hydrated and shimmering throughout the day. Lip oils Heavy matte lipsticks need to be packed away for summer—no one wants stark pigment with a cracked texture. Lip oils, on the other hand, have emerged as the perfect alternative for gentle lip care, offering a balanced blend of colour, shine, and nourishment. Whether you're in a dry, air-conditioned space or braving the outdoor heat, lip oils help maintain hydration, support the skin barrier with ceramides, and keep your lips feeling soft. Unlike some glosses, which can be sticky or irritating, lip oils are typically more skin-friendly and formulated to align with your lips' natural pH. Update your routine with these summer-ready swaps: Ultra Violette Queen Screen SPF 50+ Luminizing Skinscreen AED205 Supergoop! Protec(Tint) Daily SPF Tint AED190 Kosas DreamBeam SPF 40 PA++++ AED150 Hourglass Veil Hydrating Skin Tint AED190 Hourglass Vanish Air Brush Concealer AED150 Anastasia Beverly Hills BEAUTY BALM SERUM BOOSTED SKIN TINT AED105 Anastasia Beverly Hills BLURRING SERUM BLUSH AED73 Summer Fridays ILIA Multi-Stick Cream Blush + Highlighter + Lip Tint AED140 Urban Decay Face Bond Luminizer AED170 Whind Whind Marrakech Sun Instant Glow Tinting Water AED189 Milk Makeup Hydro Grip Gel Tint – 12-Hour Hydrating Gel Skin Tint AED170 Milk Makeup Cooling Water Jelly Tint - Sheer Lip + Cheek Stain AED100 Huda Beauty Blush Filter - Liquid Blush AED110 Summer Fridays Lifestyle: Summer Fridays, Milk Makeup, Huda Beauty, ILIA
