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Resources: www.AskMen.com
When you're out at a club or even in the office cafeteria, who do you think
people notice first: the guy who is standing tall and straight, or the guy who
looks like he wants to crawl into his shell? Well, people may notice the guy
who's slouching and looks all curved, but for all the wrong reasons.
It's amazing how something as simple as a good posture can make someone look
tall, slim, and most importantly, confident. And the confident man is the one
who gets noticed for all the right reasons. So learn how to get your spine all
out of a crouch and stand up straight for goodness sake.
Learning how to improve your posture basically consists of knowing how to do it,
and having the willpower to stick to it.
When we were young, we were told to walk with a book on top of our heads to
practice good posture. But now
posture starts
with 3 activities we do every day: sitting, standing and sleeping.
stand up straight young man
Look at a mirror while standing up straight. Check out which areas are
preventing you from standing up straight: are your shoulders crouched; your head
down; your back bent? Straighten out whatever is slouching and observe the
difference.
Your ears, shoulders, hips, knees, and ankles should make one straight line.
Relax your shoulders and slightly bend your knees -- you don't want to look like
a robot.
If you're standing for a long period of time, make sure to continue shifting your weight every so often.
If you're bending down to pick up something, bend your knees
and hips, don't bend down and grab the object with just your waist.
sit back, relax
Use a high, firm chair with a high back.
Make sure to sit with your hips as far back against the back of the chair as
possible, and keep your knees at hip level (or a little lower).
If your back is not getting the support it needs from the back of the chair, or
you find it difficult to stay against the back of the chair, then try placing a
pillow or a towel to support your lower back.
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Steps 1-4
- File, wash and soak nails, soften cuticles, clean and shape cuticles
- File in one direction only, and always do this when your nails are dry. Wash your hands and soak in warm water or a fruit acid solution such as buttermilk or organic apple cider vinegar, before applying a cold-pressed fruit or nut oil into the cuticle area near the half-moon at the base of the nail. Use the blunt end of an orangewood manicure stick to gently push the cuticles back from the nails.
Step
5
- Sand and buff nails Dry your hands completely. Sand and polish the top of each nail with a fine pumice-stone sand stick to remove any ridges. Do the same thing with a fine-grit block. Once the ridges are removed, smooth the top of the nail with a smoothing file and a buffing chamois. You'd be amazed at how shiny your nails will look following these steps, almost as if you were wearing a clear polish. You can choose a more natural, less-shiny matte finish if preferred, by not using the finest grade buffing files.
Steps
6
- Moisturize Massage your hands with a moisturizing cream or lotion.
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Step 1: Clean your face for a clean shave
It only makes sense that you should wash your face before shaving with a
razor sharp blade, doesn't it? Exfoliating and washing your face prior to
shaving will help prevent rashes and irritations of any sort. Washing your
face on a daily or weekly basis will also make your skin look fresh and
clean, and give it a healthy glow.
What to use: Face Scrubbing Gel offers an exclusive
ball-bearing system that provides in-depth skin cleaning and scrubbing by
getting to your skin's thickest sections and removing impurities and dead
skin cells. Use it every time you shave, and on a weekly or daily basis to
give your face a deep cleaning. I recommend you clean your face with a
scrubbing gel in the morning before going to work or at night before hitting
the sack.
Quick shaving tip: Your best bet is to exfoliate with a
face scrubbing gel in the shower because the feeling of warm water on your
face will help relax your facial muscles, but more importantly, it will open
up your pores and follicles and soften the hair, preparing your face for a
smooth shearing by the razor blade. If you usually shave in the shower, then
wash your face right before you apply the shaving cream; if you prefer
shaving in front of the bathroom mirror, then do so immediately after you
jump out of the shower, before drying off.
Step 2: Smooth on the shaving gel
You probably already guessed the second step... use a felt pen to outline
what you want to shave. No, no -- it's time to apply the shaving cream.
Again, remember that you should do so right after stepping out of the shower
to make sure that your pores are still open and your facial hair is soft,
for a clean and easy shave.
What to use: If you're like me, you probably don't know
what type of skin you have. Is it dry and rough, or oily and smooth? Well
guess what; it doesn't matter, because Shaving Gel is formulated for every
skin and beard type. Smooth Operator Shaving Gel turns into ultra-protective
profuse foam even on slightly moistened skin. It's formulated with ginger
extracts to help make even the toughest beards "stand up," while various
moisturizing agents leave your skin soft (and a pleasure for a woman to
feel).
Quick shaving tip: Apply Smooth Operator Shaving Gel to
your face. Then, simply take long, smooth strokes and glide the razor blade
along your face without applying too much pressure. Make sure to frequently
run the razor head underneath water (preferably warm). Proceed until you're
finished shaving your face.
Time required: It takes approximately 30 seconds to
apply the shaving gel and 5 to 7 minutes to shave.
Step 3: Enjoy the refreshment
At this point your face is shaven; it's time to give your skin some lovin'
with a nice moisturizing gel.
What to use: Once you've rinsed off the excess shaving
cream and towel-dried your face, apply After Shave for an extra-refreshing
finish, which will calm and soothe your skin with its peroxygenated corn
oil. Formulated with glycerin and allantoin, it will also moisturize and
protect any tiny cuts left by your razor. At this point, you will notice
that your skin is as smooth as can be.
Quick shaving tip: For those of you with extra-sensitive
skin, I recommend that you apply another cream to moisturize your skin,
specifically one that won't clog your pores. Use non-comedogenic (non-acne
causing), oil-free products such as Aquaderm, Aveeno, Cetaphil, or Complex
15. If you're not sure, just check the label.
Whether you shave every day or once a week, 10 minutes (at most) is all
you need each time to do it right. Remember that for a superior shave,
you'll have to use good products such as those highlighted above and if
possible, try to soften your facial hair with some warm water for a smooth
shearing by the razor blade. Finally, for the ultimate shave, try hitting a
steam room or sauna right beforehand.
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Look Great In 30 Minutes
Running late for work or a hot first date is no excuse for neglecting your
dressing and grooming habits.
You should always take a shower, style your hair, and see that every inch of
you looks its best in order to make a lasting impression. But you must keep your
cool at all times. Simply take a deep breath and follow this 10-step routine;
half an hour is all you need to get ready and look sharp.
Step 1 - Wash your hair & body
I'll be the first to confess to taking long and steamy showers in the morning.
But unfortunately, when you're in a rush, you'll have to cut down on your shower
time if you want to meet your deadline. Keep your showers short and the water
lukewarm because scorching water can deplete your skin's moisture.
Wash and rinse your hair first. Then, to speed up the process, leave in the
conditioner while moving on to the rest of your body (or try a two-in-one
shampoo and conditioner). I also recommend using shower gels, liquid cleansers,
or any soap that also has moisturizing agents (alkaline soaps tend to dry out
skin).
Estimated time: 6 minutes
Step 2 - Wash your face
Your face is the first thing people notice upon meeting you, so make sure it's
clean and healthy looking. Removing dead skin cells with a mild facial scrub
(such as an exfoliator) will help combat the effect of aging and give your face
a healthy glow and smooth texture.
Avoid aggressive scrubbing because you might scratch and irritate your skin.
Also keep in mind that you don't need to exfoliate your face on a daily basis;
two or three times a week should suffice. But you should wash your face twice a
day, especially if you have acne-prone skin.
Estimated time: 2 minutes
Step 3 - Shave
The quickest way to shave is to do it in the shower with the help of an anti-fog
mirror, or immediately after your shower, while the bathroom is still steamy.
The warm water will soften your skin, making it easier to shave and decreasing
your chances of getting nicks and cuts.
Lather up with a good shaving cream or gel to protect your skin from razor
burn and in-grown hairs; you don't want to waste your time plastering your nicks
with tissue. Apply some after-shave balm for maximum relief and to help keep
your skin moist.
Estimated time: 5 minutes
Step 4 - Clip your nails
Post-shower is also the best time to clip your finger and toenails because
they're usually softer and therefore easier to cut. If you file your nails, then
do so right after you're finished cutting them.
Estimated time: 2 minutes
Don't go anywhere yet; there are six more steps..
Step 5 - Apply cologne
Now it's time to put on some cologne, but don't overdo it. Spray or dab cologne
on your favorite pulse points (i.e. your wrists, behind your ears, the base of
your throat, etc.). Remember that your goal should be to smell nice and fresh --
not to overwhelm anyone with an odorous cloud.
Estimated time: 1 minute
Step 6 - Moisturize
It's a fact that most guys don't like moisturizing. But we still do it because
it beats having flaky skin. Make sure to moisturize your face and body daily;
just keep in mind that your face and body might require separate moisturizers,
especially if you have sensitive skin.
Estimated time: 1 minute
Step 7 - Get dressed
At this point, you should already have an idea of what you're going to wear
since you had time to think about it in the shower (right?). Remember, you're in
a hurry; pick pieces that don't require ironing and are easy to mix and match.
Estimated time: 6 minutes
Step 8 - Do your hair
Some guys take forever when it comes to styling their hair. Chances are if it's
taking you a long time, it's either because you are overloading your hair with
styling products or just love checking yourself out in the mirror.
It's worth spending more money on quality hairstyling products, as the
results are longer lasting and, 90% of the time, you only need a tiny amount to
get the look you want. Low-end hair products, on the other hand, tend to make
your hair flaky and greasy.
Estimated time: 3 minutes
Step 9 - Brush your teeth
Remember to brush your teeth and tongue, and floss to remove all the nasty
bacteria that causes bad breath.
Time-saving tip: Brush your teeth in the shower.
Estimated time: 3 minutes
Step 10 - Do a final spot check
Finally, look at yourself in the mirror and make sure everything is in order,
from head to toe.
You are now ready to go so I won't keep you much longer. Bear in mind that
with proper planning and order, you can make just about any task or routine more
efficient.
Estimated time: 1 minute
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The task of matching patterns is complicated, especially when you can't
even differentiate one basic pattern from another. Just like matching
colors, knowing which patterns look best on you is a necessary skill for
any stylish man because it can make or break your entire look.
Read on to learn how to identify basic patterns and get a grasp of
some of the general guidelines you should follow when determining which
patterns work together, and which ones don't.
some general rules
As a general rule, keep in mind that by today's standards, smaller,
finer and subtler patterns are considered dressier. On the flipside,
louder and bolder patterns are more suitable for casual wear.
Patterns come in all shapes and sizes, but they can generally be
grouped in three basic categories, each of which offers slight
variations.
Solids
By definition, a "solid" is a pattern with no patterns (go figure),
where one of the only differentiating factors is color. Assuming you
know how to match colors properly, solids are the safest and easiest
types of patterns to match, and an always-acceptable choice wherever you
go. Remember that black, blue, gray, and earth tones are usually the
simplest colors to match.
Stripes
Stripes are characterized by parallel bands or lines that go vertically
or horizontally on a contrasting background. Vertical stripes have been
known to help
shorter men look taller, while horizontal stripes are notorious for
making most people look wider and stubbier, and therefore should be
avoided by certain body types.
Below are some simple visuals to help explain six of the most common
variations of stripes.
1- Traditional stripes: Regular stripes.
2- Pinstripes: Very thin stripes that are generally seen on suits.
3- Chalk stripes: Broken up stripes (non-continuous stripes).
4- Pin dot stripes: Dots appearing in a line (as in a stripe), but
broken up by intervals.
5- Wide-spaced chalk stripes: Essentially wider-spaced stripes.
6- British stripes: Solid parallel stripes, which are often seen on
regimental ties.
plaid & checkered patterns
Plaids and checks are generally harder to mix and match with one
another, and tend to be associated with more conservative and classier
looks. Below are definitions of the main plaid and checkered patterns,
with sample visuals of each.
Glen plaid, also known as glen checks, originated as
Scottish clan plaid. It is characterized by lines crossing at the right
angles, forming a box-like design.
Tartan plaid consists of a series of checks superimposed over one
another to form a larger check.
Houndstooth patterns are found in all sizes, from tiny to giant
versions. They are characterized by a broken check that resembles a four-pointed
star.
Tattersall checks are traditional country checks that are inspired by the
pattern found on horse blankets. They feature regularly spaced, two-color lines
that cross each other in a tic-tac-toe manner.
more
patterns...
Paisley consists of swirled designs of abstract, curved shapes. 
Herringbone and its variations are characterized by military-like designs
with thread slanting left and right, forming chevron patterns.
Polka dot is a pattern formed by regularly spaced circular spots.
so happy
together
Now that you can identify basic patterns in your wardrobe, try out these simple
tips to mix and match them together. Keep in mind that opinions might differ
from one fashion expert to another, but the consensus is that there are four
main ways to combine patterns (using variables such as a pair of pants, a
blazer, a shirt, and a tie).
3 solids
Mixing three solids is by far the safest alternative. Again, this is assuming
that you have a knack for mixing and matching colors.
2 solids with 1 pattern
Mixing two solids and one pattern is another relatively safe route to take (that
is, wearing a black pair of pants with a gray shirt and a striped tie, for
example). When choosing this option, just beware of mixing soft and loud colors.
2 patterns with 1 solid
The secret to mixing two patterns is to avoid wearing two patterns of identical
size. Also, make sure that both patterns have at least one color in common -- it
will help pull them together.
3 patterns
This last alternative is the hardest one to pull off and is definitely not made
for everyone. To succeed at this one, you must make sure you know your stuff
inside and out. If you want to attempt it, remember that the trick is to wear
two similar styles of patterns.
For example, you could wear two checks, of different size, and one stripe. Or
you could wear two stripes, of different size, and one small plaid or checkered
pattern.
identify
a pattern yet?
Hopefully after today, you'll have an easier time recognizing and matching
various patterns. Colors and patterns aside, just remember that as a general
rule, the simpler your clothing, the less likely you are to commit a mismatch --
and fashion crime.
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|
|
HANKY COLOR
|
WORN ON LEFT
|
WORN ON RIGHT
|
|
Black
|
HEAVY S&M TOP
|
HEAVY S&M BOTTOM
|
|
Brown
|
SCAT TOP
|
SCAT BOTTOM
|
|
Cream
|
CUMS IN SCUMBAG
|
SUCKS IT OUT
|
|
Dark Pink
|
TIT TORTURER
|
TIT TORTUREE
|
|
Deep Red
|
DOUBLE HANDED
|
TAKES DOUBLE HANDS
|
|
Fuchsia
|
SPANKER
|
BAD BOY
|
|
Grey
|
BONDAGE TOP
|
BONDAGE BOTTOM
|
|
Light Blue
|
WANTS HEAD
|
GIVES GOOD HEAD
|
|
Light Pink
|
DILDO GIVER
|
DILDO GETTER
|
|
Mosquito Netting
|
OUTDOOR TOP
|
OUTDOOR BOTTOM
|
|
Mustard
|
HAS 8'' OR MORE
|
WANTS 8" OR MORE
|
|
Navy Blue
|
TOP
|
BOTTOM
|
|
Orange
|
ANYTHING ANYTIME
|
NOTHING NOW
|
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Olive Drab
|
MILITARY TOP
|
MILITARY BOTTOM
|
|
Red
|
FISTER
|
FISTEE
|
|
Yellow
|
PISSER
|
PISSEE
|
Back to Top
Spring is finally here. And after enduring a long and rigorous winter,
your skin is dry and your complexion is less than glowing. Unlike women,
you can't use makeup to hide winter's wrath on your face. So why not
take matters into your own hands and fake a great tan? Sure, nothing
beats a natural tan; geography and time, however, can make this a
daunting task. I've therefore boiled down the alternatives to baking in
the sun, so that you can discover how to get the ultimate tan in three
easy steps.
1- Visit a tanning salon
Before proceeding, it is important to note that there are
health risks associated with UV radiation from the sun, and that the
potentially harmful effects of tanning beds are no different. Tanning
salons expose users to obvious health concerns and the possibility of
burning and drying the skin if overexposed.
But on a more positive note, tanning salons can help attain the base
for a perfect tan even if used infrequently, and when paired with a good
sunless tanning product, they're gold.
It is essential to visit a reputable salon that offers a hygienic
environment (by cleaning its tanning beds with germicides) and a
well-informed staff. Make use of the employees' training by asking about
exposure times and how to select the best machine for your skin tone.
Don't ever hesitate to voice your concerns -- it's up to you to become
further informed about making the most of your tanning salon experience.
Here are some points to keep in mind when using tanning beds:
- Various tanning machines offer different strengths.
- As little as 10 minutes in a strong machine can burn your skin.
Exercise caution.
- Applying a tanning accelerator can increase the effect of your
exposure time in a tanning bed.
- Depending on your skin tone, what may appear to be a slight burn
immediately following your visit can potentially turn into a golden tan.
It may be preferable to make as little as one or two visits to the
tanning salon per month to capture the feel of a natural tan and gain
light exposure during the late winter months (this varies depending on
your skin type, of course). A few minutes can even help excrete some
natural oils and heal dry winter skin, as well as create an excellent
base to build upon with sunless tanning creams.
2- Use sunless tanning products
Tanning lotions are a great addition to a base tan obtained
from a tanning salon or natural sunlight. They also offer great results
independently, and may be the best alternative for those who burn
easily. Most importantly, self-tanning products are the safest way to
achieve a tan.
Most sunless tanning products (this includes cream, gel and spray)
are formulated with the same active ingredient, which stimulates pigment
in the skin rather than dying it. The newer products ensure a natural
looking tan that is within your own color range.
A difference in products and prices accounts for brand name,
fragrance, purity, and concentration of the active ingredient (read on
for more information). Opt for a product that is hypoallergenic and also
acts as a moisturizer. In simple terms, these products won't block pores
or irritate sensitive skin.
Do not use a sunless tanning lotion before reading the following...
Men's sunless tanning products require some training when it comes to the
application process. Follow these steps for best results:
- Test the product on an unexposed area, like your inner wrists, to
see how your skin reacts to it.
- Wash and exfoliate your face and body thoroughly before applying
the product (so as to wash away any dead skin, which can make the tan uneven and
blotchy). Concentrate on areas that are prone to excessive dryness like your
joints (elbows, ankles and knees).
- Once your face and body are dry, apply the product. On your face,
apply it only to the upper cheeks, forehead and nose, which will mimic
the effect of a natural tan. (Note: Any application of a self-tanner to your
beard area can result in an uneven, fake-looking tan because skin pigments are
deeper in that area.) On your body, apply the self-tanner by rubbing it onto
your skin in circular motions (rather than up and down) and use less tanner on
your joints. Depending on the product, you may have to re-apply several times
during the first day of use in order to see a difference.
- Make sure to wash your hands thoroughly after use (self-tanners can
stain your clothing and can also show up on your hands, resulting in
blotchiness), or better yet, use latex gloves when applying the product.
- Don't get dressed for at least 15 minutes after applying the
product.
An inexpensive product from a local pharmacy may be just as good as those
offered in upper scale retail outlets and specialty stores. You may want to try
several products to see which one works best with your own skin and coloring; in
this case, it is about trial and error. A patch test (again, on the
inside of your wrists) while you're in the store can be a good indication of
expected results.
Products come in a range of color depths, depending on the level of
concentration of the active ingredient. It is far more cost-effective to opt for
the darkest shade of tanning cream and apply it more sparingly in order to
obtain the same results as a lighter shade of the same product.
Self-tanning product suggestions
Neutrogena offers a very natural-looking line of inexpensive products that are
hypoallergenic and won't block pores. Its cream is particularly light by
comparison to many other brands, and leaves skin looking matte -- a particularly
good thing if you're prone to breakouts and/or have an oily complexion.
California North also offers a notable self-tanning product; its
Titanium Self Tanner also serves as a minimal sunscreen with an SPF of 7,
offering protection from the sun while you reap the rewards of a sunless tan.
A personal favorite is Sea & Ski's "Deep Dark Sunless Self Tanning Lotion."
This product is by far one of the most inexpensive and effective on the market,
offering the deepest possible tan for about $6 US a tube. Armed with vitamin E
oils, its moisturizing effect may tend to make your skin look oily after
application, but the long-term results are excellent.
3- Maintain your color
Now that you've been to the tanning salon and found a sunless tanning
lotion that works for you, how do you make your tan last? The answers lie in
moisturizing and consistent re-application of a self-tanning product.
Moisturize
Moisturizing your skin will keep it looking healthy and hydrated, and helps in
the
anti-aging process. It's important to moisturize year round, especially when
tanned, as it prevents your skin from peeling.
Make sure to moisturize consistently following a trip to the tanning salon;
this will serve to prolong your tan. Keep in mind that color obtained from a
visit to the tanning salon can be maintained by visiting the salon as little as
once a month.
Apply tanning creams
The beauty of sunless tanning products is that they usually double up as
moisturizers (it's therefore advisable to alternate between a sunless tanning
cream and your favorite moisturizer). Make sure to wash your face twice daily,
especially when using such products so as to scrub away any excess residue.
good to
go?
So now you have a tan that will turn heads and make every woman wonder about the
exotic islands you've visited. Just remember that no matter how amazing and
ahead of the seasons you may feel with your fake tan, don't make a habit of
wearing white every day to accentuate it.
Back to Top
Intro
For you romantics out there, piercing may conjure up an image of Cupid's golden
arrow passing through your heart. But what about your penis, labia, nipple, nose
or tongue? A piercing, like an earring, is a decorative ring or bar that is
placed through a flap of your skin or, in the case of your tongue, a muscle.
It's a popular procedure among gay and straight people alike.
Why get pierced in the first place? "It's an expression of oneself, a way to
be different," says piercer David McCammon of San Francisco's Gotham Body
Piercing. He added that piercing certain body parts "can heighten sexual
sensitivity."
What is it?
The procedure itself is simple. A needle punctures your skin or tongue, then a
bar or ring is inserted through the opening. Don't remove your piercing during
the healing process, or the hole will close up! When done correctly, anesthesia
is not required.
If you try it on your own, you increase your chances for both infection and
an improperly placed piercing. Go to a professional who can help you choose
appropriately sized jewelry and give you detailed instructions on how to care
for your piercing.
How much does it cost?
Rates do vary, but generally speaking, expect to pay around thirty dollars for a
piercing above the waist, and around fifty dollars for one below the waist. The
jewelry costs extra and can range from ten dollars to hundreds, depending on
your taste.
Important considerations
A piercing is more than poke and play-it can bleed, tear become infected, and it
may not close up if you change your mind. The healing process can take from 6
weeks to 5 months or more, during which time you'll need to diligently cleanse
and care for your new toy. If you're not sure you're ready for the
responsibility, you might want to give it more thought before trying it.
Don't be surprised if everyone doesn't love your new piercing. Sure, the
decision to get one is yours, but if you're dating someone, you might want to
talk with him or her beforehand. If the reaction you get is a wide-eyed, "Ick,"
try explaining your reasons for wanting a piercing in the first place.
If a penis bar or ring is your thing, be sure that the jewelry you choose is
properly sized. If it's too small, it may keep you from having a comfortable
erection. If it's too big, it may slide around too much when you're soft and
irritate your penis. Keep in mind that you can pierce your foreskin, scrotum,
the skin on your shaft, and even the head of your penis, but don't pierce
straight through the shaft! This could impale a blood vessel and cause serious
bleeding, or damage your erectile tissue.
Apadravya, Ampallang and Prince Albert may sound like an invitation to a
United Nations party, but in reality these are three piercings that go right
through the head of your penis. An apadravya is a rod passed through your
urethra vertically, an ampallang is a rod that is passed through horizontally
but misses your urethra, and a Prince Albert is a ring passed through the
opening of your penis (the urethra) and out through the bottom of the shaft.
Urinary tract infections can occur with these types of piercings, so see your
doctor if you have a burning sensation or pass blood when you urinate. And don't
forget, an apadravya and a Prince Albert go smack through your urine flow, so
you're likely to spray. The good news is that your urine, which is usually
sterile, will cleanse the wound and help it heal faster.
Even with a penis ring, using a condom is very important. You may need to use
a larger condom to accommodate your jewelry, and be sure to avoid rubbers that
are sheer -- they might tear. Remember guys, your love ring can also injure your
partner's teeth or the inside of his or her anus and mouth, so use caution and
be gentle.
If a labial ring is your thing, you're in luck! There are several places in
your vaginal area that can be pierced including the hood of your clitoris, your
lower vagina and your inner and outer labia. For the record, piercing the
clitoris itself is a tricky procedure because the area is so sensitive. If you
must have it done, choose someone experienced. And always be sure to have your
professional piercer correctly size the jewelry you choose.
Possible side effects
The main side effect of piercing is infection. Bleeding is rare and usually
stops if you apply a little pressure to the wound. If you have an allergic
reaction to the jewelry, you'll usually get a rash. Titanium, platinum, gold and
surgical-grade steel are usually non-reactive, so stick with these types of
rings or bars. Beware of silver; it's very reactive and can give you trouble!
Dangerous complications
You should make sure your piercer uses clean and sterilized equipment because
it's possible to contract HIV and Hepatitis B and C, among other blood borne
diseases, from a piercing needle. Hepatitis B can survive outside the body for
days, so your chances of contracting it from a contaminated needle is greater
than your risk of HIV, which dies quickly once outside the body.
As a general rule, an improperly placed piercing is more likely to cause
infection than a properly placed one. For this reason, leave the procedure up to
a professional. If you do get an infection, don't ignore it. An abscess could
develop-and your doctor might need to drain the infected area (ouch!).
If you have diabetes, you're at a higher risk for infection in general.
Before getting pierced, consult your doctor. If you are prone to forming keloids
(thick scars), you may want to avoid piercing altogether. Otherwise, be prepared
for scars to be part of the aesthetic. Having HIV is not a reason to avoid
piercing. If you are healthy and want one, go for it.
If you're already pierced, make sure you remove all your décor before
undergoing surgery -- and not because of homophobia. Depending on the operation,
your jewelry can react with the operating equipment and cause a serious burn.
Talk about a shock!
How long is the healing process?
Be patient. The healing process can take from 4 to 6 weeks for a tongue and 5
months or longer for a nipple. As your skin heals, expect yellow fluid to drain
and crust on your ring or bar. This is normal. Your chance of infection is
greatest right after the procedure, so keep the area clean by washing twice a
day with antibacterial soap until the oozing subsides. Keep in mind, this oozing
is a body fluid and can transmit diseases, so protect it with a condom or dental
dam during
sex. Don't remove your jewelry, or the hole may close! Finally, don't be
rough until the piercing has healed completely because you might cause it to
bleed or tear.
How do you reverse it?
If you change your mind about your piercing, simply remove the jewelry and the
hole may close. (Keep in mind that some holes don't ever close, which is
particularly true with penile piercings). If your piercing isn't freshly done,
you may end up with a small scar. Don't forget to keep the area clean so it
doesn't get infected.
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Intro
Maybe your lover thinks tattoos are hot. Maybe you're an activist with a message
for everyone to see. Maybe it's simply a Popeye fetish. Either way, getting a
tattoo can be a big decision, and there are several things to consider before
going under the needle.
Tattooing is a tradition of puncturing the skin and placing dye under its
surface to create images or words. It started around 4000 B.C. in Ancient Egypt,
and has since spread throughout the globe, taking on a myriad of meanings. The
Burmese in 2000 B.C. incorporated tattooing into their magic. The Greeks used
special tattoos for their spies. King Harold of Great Britain, in an everlasting
romantic gesture, tattooed "Edith" above his heart. But before you rush out to
emblazon your beloved’s name on your backside, keep in mind that this procedure
is a permanent one. And even with today’s technology, removing it may not be as
simple as you think.
Luckily, there is another option: the temporary tattoo. Applied to the top of
your skin, instead of being injected underneath, the dye lasts anywhere from a
few days to a couple of weeks.
Henna, a popular type of temporary tattoo, is a small shrub found in the
Middle East. First used around 5000 B.C. for its natural healing properties,
Henna has since become a popular body decoration in many cultures. The
application is painless, and the paste dries soon thereafter, leaving a
brownish-red hued tattoo that lasts up to 12 days before fading.
The other option for a temporary fix is a store-bought tattoo, which can be
removed with a few good scrubbings.
What is it?
Tattooing is a tradition of puncturing the skin and placing dye underneath it to
create images or words made of ink. It started around 4000 B.C. in Ancient
Egypt, and has since spread throughout the globe, taking on a myriad of
meanings. The Burmese in 2000 B.C. incorporated tattooing into their magic. The
Greeks used special tattoos for their spies. King Harold of Great Britain, in an
everlasting romantic gesture, tattooed "Edith" above his heart. But before you
rush out to emblazon your beloved's name on your backside, keep in mind that
this procedure is a permanent one, and even with today's technology, removing it
may not be as simple as you think.
Luckily, there is another option: The temporary tattoo. Applied to the top of
your skin, instead of being injected underneath, the dye lasts anywhere from a
few days to a couple of weeks.
Henna, a popular type of temporary tattoo, is a small shrub found in the
Middle East. First used around 5000 B.C. for its natural healing properties,
Henna has since been a popular body decoration in many cultures. A tattoo artist
creates a Henna paste, which he or she then paints onto your skin. Depending on
the skill of the artist, designs can be extremely intricate and beautiful. The
application is painless, and the paste dries soon thereafter, leaving a
brownish-red hued tattoo that lasts for up to twelve days before fading.
The other option for a temporary fix is the store-bought tattoo. Choose a
ready-made design, press it against your skin and rub a little water on top.
Voila! All it takes to remove this type of tattoo is a few good scrubbings.
How is it done?
If you’re in the market for a permanent tattoo, head to your neighborhood tattoo
parlor. The tattoo artist will point out many designs to choose from. And when
you’re ready, he or she will use a needle to inject dye underneath your skin.
If your mind's not made up, try a Henna or store-bought tattoo, both of which
are temporary. Henna, a small shrub found in the Middle East, is made into a
paste that is painted onto your skin. It dries into a brownish-red hue that
lasts for about twelve days before fading. You can go to a Henna artist, or buy
a kit and try your own designs! If Henna’s not your thing, take a look at the
store-bought kind. They come with a ready-made designs that you place onto your
skin and wet. This tattoo lasts for a few days, and a few good scrubbings will
usually remove it.
How much does it cost?
How much it costs depends on what you want to get. If you're looking for a cheap
tattoo - and I mean cheap - scare up some change, hitch a ride to your local
supermarket or mall and hit the vending machines. You're likely to find a tamely
designed press-on temporary tattoo.
If you're hoping for Henna, be prepared to pay twenty dollars and up,
depending on how large and detailed you'd like the design to be. If you're
feeling artsy, you can find kits on the web for around 10 to 20 dollars. They
usually include templates, an applicator tube, pre-mixed Henna paste and gloves.
For the real deal, el permanente, prepare to lay out at least 50 bucks
for starters. Larger, more detailed or more colorful designs can run you into
the hundreds, even thousands of dollars and can require multiple visits.
Important considerations
Temporary tattoos don't carry the health risks that permanent tattoos do,
because the latter breaks through the skin, potentially exposing you to
Hepatitis and HIV. And permanent tattoos hurt.
Luckily, there are guidelines that tattoo artists can follow to greatly
reduce the chances of trouble. Ask them if they:
- wash their hands and wear latex gloves during the procedure
- use sterile, disposable needles that they open in front of their customers
- throw away ink caps, razors and stencils after every use
- use an autoclave (an intense heating process) to sterilize equipment, and
have their autoclave inspected monthly
- sterilize the pigment bottles and the work area with bleach
- use an ultrasonic tank to rinse the tube and needle set from their tattoo
machines
If you don't get a satisfactory response to these questions, or if you notice
something disturbing, like a dirty work space, remember: you can walk away and
find a better tattoo parlor.
One last thought about permanent tattoos: don't get one unless you want it
forever. Yes, laser technology can help remove your tribute to "My Darling
Peter" before it deflates your relationship with your new beau, Jay. But laser
removal often requires multiple treatments, and the end result may only lighten
your tattoo, or less often, leave you with an ugly scar.
Possible side effects
Pain and bleeding are common while you're getting your permanent tattoo, and
scabbing is common afterward. For the first few days, use an antibiotic cream on
your tattoo, and if it doesn't look infected, you can use cocoa butter for the
remaining week or two until the scabbing subsides.
You may also experience an allergic reaction to the pigment dye. According to
Jacob Baral, M.D., who practices tattoo removal in New York City, allergies
include local swelling and itching. If you're concerned, ask your tattoo artist
to test a tiny portion of your skin to see if there's a reaction before
getting the tattoo. If you are allergic to a tattoo, the only way to stop the
reaction is to have it removed!
Dangerous complications
The complications from an unsterile permanent tattoo procedure are almost
unthinkable: you can contract HIV and Hepatitis B and C, among other bloodborne
diseases. Transmission can occur if your tattoo artist injects you with a needle
used on someone else. Hepatitis B can survive outside the body for days,
increasing your chances of contracting it from a contaminated needle.
Luckily, transmission of disease through tattooing does not commonly occur.
How long is the healing process?
After you get a permanent tattoo, expect the healing process to take about two
to three weeks. Bleeding is common during the procedure, and scabbing is common
afterward. For the first few days, use an antibiotic cream on your tattoo, and
if it doesn't look infected, you can use cocoa butter for the remaining week or
two until the scabbing subsides.
The healing process for tatoo removal varies, depending on the tattoo.
How do you reverse it?
Laser surgery for tattoo removal often requires multiple treatments, depending
on the colors in your tattoo. Visits are spaced about 10 days apart, during
which time your doctor may use antibiotics and a special dressing over the
treated area to help it heal.
