Don't Worry, Be Pretty ;)

Hel-loha!

I hope you are feeling pretty today, because you are ;)

Don’t let all of the stresses of life get you down. You’ll look ugly. Really, I am not kidding. Studies show that a negative mood is reflected in your physical appearance.

It’s really not all in your head: Science proves that if you’re happy, serene, or in love, your skin changes from the inside out to look healthier, radiant and even younger.

Even on your worst days, don’t let it get to you…you are too beautiful and too worth it…

So I wanted to share with you some things I learned from reading a cute article in this month’s Self Magazine, by Beth James.

Here are some tips to FAKING the beauty benefits of a positive attitude when you’re on the downside of an emotional roller coaster.

WHAT LOVE LOOKS LIKE: A gorgeous glow
When you’re head over heels, lovey-dovey hormones make sure it’s written all over your face-you have an undeniable radiance. Dopamine and Oxytocin are two feel-good hormones that increase blood flow to the skin making skin more luminous.
To fake the prettifying effects of being smitten, apply a sheer bronzer that has a touch of iridescence, like an illuminating bronzing powder topped with a cream blush.

WHAT HAPPINESS LOOKS LIKE: Smooth, youthful skin
LOLing with besties reduces stress hormones and keeps skin’s support structure intact and youthful because laughter is the best medicine :) . Laughing releases endorphins that counteract the negative effects of stress, causing fewer fine lines.
To fake a happy-go-lucky-stress-free lifestyle, add a little azelaic acid to your skin care routine- an exfoliant from barley or wheat that reduces inflammation and wrinkles. And of course, don’t forget that SPF. Sun protection is a must, every single day.

WHAT SERENITY LOOKS LIKE: A calm, balanced complexion
Keeping your cool promotes healthy skin because you are not suffering through the damage cause by Hurricane Stress. When you’re frazzled, pro-inflammatory neuropeptides are released, breaking down the barrier that protects your skin from environmental irritants, leading to dryness and flakes. A relaxed complexion is evenly toned, with no hint of blotchiness or flakes in sight.
Fake calm skin by using creams that contain ceramides (hydrating lipids found in skin) or niacin (moisturizes ceramide levels). Skincare products with dimethicone also prevents moisture loss.

Now you know my secret to maintaining a crazy-busy-stressful life while looking absolutely flawless… Hehe, I kid, I kid….

Remember, when you scowl or frown, a message is sent to your brain that you’re apprehensive. The neurons in our brains will pick this up, and reflect this easily. The most inexpensive, and quickest way to look pretty, is feel pretty.

Go in front of the mirror, smile at yourself, and just feel gorgeous, and your neurons will tan into your emotions and instantly help you feel happier and more confident.

"I may not be the prettiest girl in the world, but I can feel like I am."

Have a fabulous, and beautiful rest of the week, darlings.

Love,
Honey