Tip Tuesday – One Man’s Trash…

This isn’t the usual beauty or fashion tip, but I think it’s a useful one nonetheless.  I recently became aware of a trade-in program that Amazon is offering for used books, dvds, and video games.  Basically, you can sell back items that you no longer want, and Amazon will add the amount to a gift card balance that you retain on your Amazon account.  The prices they are willing to pay vary greatly.  For example, one exercise dvd that I checked the trade-in price was $1.50, while another one was $8.25, so I would imagine it just depends on what is more in demand.  The items must be in good condition, and if they are deemed not to be in acceptable condition, the items will be returned to you.  Also, Amazon pays all the cost of shipping.  I think it’s great!  I have so many books and dvds that I purchased, read/used, and now have no use for them, so they’re going to Amazon.  Lastly, the items don’t even have to have been originally purchased from Amazon!  Visit Amazon’s Trade-In Store today!

Tip Tuesday – Tied Up in Knots

Ever spend way too much time trying to untangle a knot from a necklace?  Try this trick.  Place a towel on a hard surface, then apply a few drops of baby oil (Yes, baby oil!) to lubricate the knot.  Use a safety pin or needle to gently pull apart the tangle.  Wipe the oil off of the necklace, and you’re ready to go!

Tip Tuesday – Pineapple Express

I don’t know about you, but my lips get SO dry during these winter months, so much so that even lip balm won’t do the trick.   Try rubbing a fresh slice of pineapple over your lips.  The bromelain in pineapple breaks down the dry skin cells to reveal the softer skin underneath.  As a bonus, pineapple is known to improve digestion, so when you’re done with your lips – eat it!  Got to love these double duty products!

Tip Tuesday – Fresh Breath & No Blisters?

I love products that do “double duty”.  Did you know that antibacterial mouthwash can help heal your blisters faster?  Apparently, the thymol that’s contained in mouthwash is a powerful healing ingredient.  Just put some mouthwash on a cotton ball and apply to your blister several times a day until healed.  Your feet will be “heel-ready” in no time!

Streak Free Zone!

Is there anything worse than pulling a top over your head only to discover two white deodorant marks on your shirt?  Enter Gal Pals – pink foam pads that erase deodorant streaks from almost any fabric (except silk).  Think of them as a Mr. Clean Magic Eraser for clothes!  Gal Pals are sold in a pack of two for $10.00; each pad is good for about 25 uses.  Order them at http://www.gal-pal.com.

Tip Tuesday – Keep your Guac Green!

Just in time for your Labor Day party, here’s a tip to help keep your guacamole green for hours!  Prepare the guacamole up to three hours ahead of time.  When finished, spray the surface of the guacamole with flavorless cooking spray (like Pam).  This will form a protective seal against air, preventing the oxidation process that causes avocados to turn brown.  Ole!

Tip Tuesday – Oh Baby!

Remember the days when baby oil was used for tanning?  Well, with zero SPF, it is no longer an acceptable “tanning” lotion, but it is a great substitute for shaving cream.  Just smooth on your legs in the shower and razor away.  You’ll get a close shave, and your legs will feel like silk!  Rinse your razor thoroughly when finished.

Tip Tuesday – Oh My Aching Feet

If your feet are feeling hot and achy, try the cooling properties of the herb rosemary.  Fill a basin with tepid water and add a few rosemary sprigs.  Soak your feet in the water for about 10 minutes and they will refreshed and ready to go!

Tip Tuesday – Sharpen Your Skills

To make sharpening your eye and lip pencils easier, stick the pencil in the freezer for 5 minutes to harden the tip, then sharpen.  Let it sit for a couple of minutes at room temperature before applying.  No more having your pencils get chewed up by the sharpener.

Tip Tuesday – Another Great Use for Vaseline!

Apply a light layer of vaseline to your wrists, then spray your fragance on top.  The scent will last from morning to night!