Start by making a deep center part in your hair with a comb.

Next take a 2-inch section of hair by your part.
Split this into three equal pieces and start to make a braid angled down toward your ear.

When you reach your ear, take two more sections of hair on either side of your braid and combine them into a three strand braid. Continue this braid so that it reaches the nape of your neck.

Repeat the double braid on the opposite side of your part.

Gather both braids and all your hair into a low ponytail.

Twist your ponytail around into a low bun and pin in place.

More hair how-tos

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Get nails inspired by the hit show

Can't get enough Girls? The season may be over, but we scored the exclusive scoop from Deborah Lippmann about the Girls-inspired nail polish line she created with Lena Dunham and spring manicure trends you can rock now.

SK: What spring nail trends are you seeing?

Deborah Lippmann: It's not a nude, sheer pink, naked nail season. It's all about color! I did a collection we're calling the Staccato Collection that has pretty spring shades you may have seen before, but I made them edgy by putting black glitter in them. Do one nail in an accent color if you don't want to do something too crazy and weird. But anything goes right now! Try layering, too... you could do a nude base with gold glitter over top. Plus, layering polishes will make your manicure last longer.

The Girls nail polish set is
available online for $45.

SheKnows: How did the Girls nail polish line come about?

DL: I've known Lena Dunham for a while; I knew her before the show came on air. I donated a gift bag for the season 1 premiere party called 'Girls Just Wanna Have Fun.' A few days later, Lena wrote me a little thank you note with a picture of her wearing the polish. At the bottom of the note, she wrote 'Don't you think it would be cool for Hannah to have her own cool, hip green nail color?' So we started talking about it. It initially started that we would make a color for Hannah and then when we started talking about it, we realized each of the girls is so different and has such a different personality... so it became a full collection, one for each girl!

SK: How involved was Lena in the making of the line?

DL: She was very hands on. She gave me concepts beginning with her wanting a weird hunter green when we started. She gave us descriptions of Marnie and Shoshanna and we sort of decided Marnie had to be Upper East Side pretty, perfect pink and Shoshanna was sort of blooming and trying to find herself so we called it Virtuous Violet. And then Jessa's kind of bohemian and very sexy and so we made a dirty red for her. As we were progressing with the Jessa color, at first I made a really pretty red. And then Lena said 'Jessa's a little dirtier, don't you think?' So she was very much the visionary. I did a photo shoot with Lena for Entertainment Weekly and she emailed me the morning of the shoot before I got there and was like, 'Can I be Shoshanna today?' and I was like, 'You can be whoever you want any day you want.'

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Photo credits: Deborah Lippmann

Creating your perfect Easter/
spring look

With the Easter holiday season comes an abundance of beautiful spring colors and fashion. So why not use this Easter Sunday to begin adding in the lighter fabrics and colors of spring?

Easter by far is my favorite holiday for many reasons. And among them, is the chance to begin bringing in the lighter colors and fabrics of spring! While I love hiding under multiple layers of clothes and staying warm, it's a nice change to be able to wear a jacket knowing I can take it off at some point to show what's underneath! And since spring can sometimes still have that bit of a chill in the air, it still gives that comforting feeling that the layering season isn't completely over.

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If your family budget doesn't leave much left over for beauty products, you have to get a little creative with your shopping. However, don't worry. The price of beauty doesn't have to be expensive. In fact, it can actually be cheap.

The cheap price
of beauty

Here are 10 must-have top-quality beauty products for moms that you shouldn't do without -- and the best part is that all these skin care products and cosmetics are all under $8 each!

Moms don't have time to get a manicure every week, but that doesn't mean your nails can't look great. One of the best products to stop nail polish from chipping is Revlon Extra Life No Chip Top Coat . This product will really extend the life of your manicure and it delivers an ultra glossy shine.

Cleanse your skin without over-drying it. This foaming face wash from Olay removes dirt, oil and makeup, leaving your skin clean and refreshed. This product is 100 percent soap- and oil-free.

With the kids banging on the door to get in the bathroom, you don't have time for a long beauty routine. Remove your makeup quickly and thoroughly with these eye makeup remover pads . Unlike many other products, these pads don't leave any greasy residue and don't irritate eyes.

Dozens of e.l.f. products could make the list, considering they are only a dollar each. However, our favorite is their lip plumper . After trying dozens of lip plumping products, we have found that e.l.f. Plumping Glaze is one of the best.

Get soft lips with this naturally flavored lip gloss . This gloss adds shine without being sticky. Burt's Bees uses apricot wax and sunflower seed oil to keep lips moisturized all day. It comes in six sensational shades.

Keep your skin care routine simple with pure, natural products. This soap cleanses and moisturizes your skin using olive oil and other natural ingredients. Kiss My Face Olive Oil Bar Soap will keep your skin hydrated and touchably soft for just a couple dollars.

This cheap toner will cleanse and condition your skin for just pennies a day. Witch hazel has been used as an all natural skin care treatment for over 200 years.

Epsom salt isn't just for treating sore, tired muscles. You can also use it as a homemade beauty treatment to plump up hair, exfoliate your body and much more. Learn more about summer beauty with epsom salt.

Cocoa butter works wonders on dry skin. It moisturizes hands, treats cracked heels, helps eliminates stretch marks and much more. Cococare Cocoa Butter is just over a buck for four ounces, and you really can't beat it.

If you have time for just one makeup product in the morning, make it mascara. Maybelline Great Lash Mascara is a favorite choice that fattens and lengthens your lashes beautifully. Be sure to get the waterproof variety -- it's perfect for school plays and other tear-jerking moments with your kids.

Check out hundreds of our best beauty, makeup and skincare tips>>

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Most of us have had a massage of some sort or another, whether at a salon or at home, but have you tried hot stone massage? Hot stone massage is when the massage therapist heats stones and then places them in specific spots on your body to relax your muscles.

Origins of hot stone massage

Many Native Americans would warm stones on the fire and then use them to treat aching muscles. Some form of hot stone massage was also used in ancient Egypt and India. Nowadays, stones are generally warmed with hot water in an electric heating device until they reach the optimal temperature for this treatment.

The stones then are placed in key spots along your spine, between your toes, in the palms of your hands and elsewhere on your body. The massage therapist may also hold the hot stone in their hand while giving you a Swedish massage. Some say that a massage stroke with a hot stone is equivalent to 10 strokes without one.

Hot stone massage benefits

The hot stones relax your muscles and tissues to relieve stress and pain. Also, the stones can help your body to release toxins and improve circulation. Many therapists believe that hot stone massage can be used to treat much more than back pain or tension. Arthritis, circulatory problems and anxiety are oftentimes treated with this type of massage. Some research shows that hot stone massage can help with conditions such as insomnia, depression and even infertility.

Why "me time" is essential for your health>>

LaStone Therapy

You may have seen some spas advertising LaStone Therapy. This trademarked type of massage uses hot stones, as well as frozen or chilled marble stones. The hot and cold temperatures both stimulate and relax the circulatory system, promoting detoxification and movement of fluids in the body. This method was developed by massage therapist Mary Nelson of Tucson, Arizona in 1993. Therapists must be certified to perform this type of treatment. LaStone Therapy has a spiritual component too, as the therapist aims to open up the energy channels of the body.

Is hot stone massage right for you?

If you are a mom who is looking to relax, but you don't like the deep pressure of a traditional massage, then a hot stone massage may be the answer for you.

Most moms are dealing with stress and tension on a daily basis. And as we get older, back pain, insomnia, poor circulation and even arthritis can become issues. If you are looking for a natural way to treat these conditions, then hot stone massage may be worth a shot.

If you have recently had surgery, are prone to blood clots or are pregnant, you should talk to your doctor before having any type of massage. If you have a rash, inflamed skin or open wounds, you also should refrain from massage until you are healed. If the stones feel too hot at any point during your massage session, be sure to let your therapist know immediately.

The cost of a hot stone massage varies from spa to spa and therapist to therapist, but you should expect to pay about $100-$150 for an hour session.

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How to get rid of frizzy hair

One of the biggest beauty dilemmas is dry, frizzy hair. Sometimes it's easier to just pull your hair back and not deal with it, but it's a better idea to actually do something about it.

• Condition it — Even if you don't shampoo every day, your hair needs daily conditioner — especially in dry weather. If you like a leave-in rather than an in-shower conditioner, try Living Proof No Frizz Leave-in Conditioner .
• Stop rubbing it — Don't rub your hair vigorously with a towel when you step out of the shower. Instead blot it dry with a thick towel. Skip the blow dryer if you can, but if you don't have time to let it dry naturally, use a diffuser on your hair dryer to reduce heat damage.
• Get it cut — To reduce split ends and frizzy hair, get a haircut often. A trim every six to eight weeks works best for most women.

"If your hair is looking dry and frizzy because of the weather , there are good products to help smooth it down," says Chris Padula, co-owner of The Beauty Parlour."For a quick fix, use a weightless styling creme like L'Oreal Texture Expert Smooth Essence. This product should be every girl's best friend."

Spring into a new hair color

Take your look from drab to fab with new hair color for spring. This season, it is all about showing off gorgeous hairstyles with a bright and noticeable color.

"Bold and rich hair is going to be a bigger hit this spring than natural and subtle colors, so it is a great time to have some fun and try something new and exotic," explains Maira Padula, also co-owner of The Beauty Parlour. "Nature seldom gives us better rich color than a bottle, so for those looking to experiment with hair color, now is a good time to get started. Also, move away from abrupt heavy styles and move toward something a bit lighter, looser... and more carefree."

Make waves

You don't have to spend all day in the bathroom with a flat iron and a blow dryer. What mom has time for that? What you should do is make the most of what you have. If you have naturally curly hair, embrace it, and if you have stick-straight locks, learn to love your style too. Talk to your stylist about a haircut that works with your natural waves .

For special occasions — like date night with your hubby — you can spend a little extra time on your hair. If you want gorgeous wavy locks, Chris Padula offers these tips.

"Invest in some medium sized Velcro rollers, some long metal rollers and a great volumizer. After you get out of the shower, towel dry your hair as much as possible so you do not dilute the product. Spray a few sections of your crown at the root with the volumizer for body and then just dust the ends with the same product to attain some control.

Then, with a blow dryer, roughly dry all of your hair, concentrating on the roots. When your hair is about 95-98 percent dry, put in the rollers. You don't have to get too precise with how you place them... if you have a good cut, the shape will do the hard work for you. Once the rollers are in place, dry your hair that last little bit while it is on the rollers. It is very important to let your hair cool on the rollers . With minimum fuss, your hair should have some nice bouncy, flirty waves when you take it down. Give it a shake and you're ready to go!"

More beauty tips for moms

New ways to brighten tired eyes
Gloss for a cause: Makeup for you and your teen
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A skin care powerhouse demystified

All about peptides

With new skin care ingredients and products being introduced to women constantly, it can become overwhelming to understand what these ingredients can do for your skin. Peptides are one of the most promising discoveries in the last few years. Learn more about this anti-aging powerhouse, what it can do for you and how you can add it into your beauty regimen.

What are peptides?

Peptides are chains of amino acids that are the building blocks of proteins in the skin. When peptides form a long chain of amino acids, they become proteins. When they are in a short chain of amino acids, they are able to penetrate the top layer of our skin and send signals to our cells to let them know how to function.

One important protein in our skin is collagen. Collagen gives our skin its thickness and suppleness. When collagen breaks down in the skin , wrinkles form. Peptides applied topically to the skin can send a signal to collagen to prompt the formation of new collagen, and voila, you have the appearance of more youthful, supple skin.

Types of peptides

Editor's pick

There are many, many types of peptides, but for skin care, there are specific peptides that are used widely. The most popular are collagen stimulating peptides, such as Matrixyl; as found in Zensation's Bioregenerating Serum .

Next, we have copper peptides, which are also shown to reduce inflammation. One product to try that contains copper peptides is Neova Night Therapy with Copper Peptide Complex .

Finally, some of the most innovative peptides are neuropeptides . The most popular is called Acetyl Hexapeptide-8 or Argireline. One serum that includes Argireline is PCA Skin's Exlinea Peptide Smoothing Serum pHaze 25. Another example of this type of peptide is Syn-ake, a synthetic peptide that claims to reduce the depth of wrinkles and increase skin's smoothness. It is based on an ingredient that mimics the venom of the Asian Temple Snake. You can find this in serums such as Sonya Dakar MicroVenom EyeLift Complex.

How to use peptides

For the most part, peptides take time to work . Peptides are best applied in serums or creams for a long period of time. You can start to see results in four to 12 weeks. Keep in mind that upkeep is so important with peptides. Once you stop using them, you will notice the difference.

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Photo credit: Kara Endres

Try Scotch tape!

Nail expert and Custom Nail Solutions President Katie Saxton has the inside intel on tape strip manis. According to Katie, the secret to using tape in nail art is to start off with two different-colored polishes and Scotch tape: "In my experience, Scotch tape is the easiest to use. Paint your nails with a coat of colored polish and wait for it to dry completely before placing the tape on it. You must wait for the coat of nail polish to dry or else it will be pulled off when you take the tape off."

Katie continues: "Once the coat of polish is dry, place tape on the first nail in whatever design you please, and paint over the nail and tape with a coat of the second polish. Pull off the tape right away while the polish is still wet to ensure that your design is sharp and has clean edges. Let the polish dry completely, and then add a clear top coat to complete the look."

Nail artist Shannon Sullivan has another trick up her sleeves. She uses thin layers of polish so they can dry sufficiently before you use the tape. "It's basic, easy and works," she says. When placing the shapes or strips of tape on the nails, gently press them down to remove any air bubbles or bumps. Make sure to leave extra in order to easily remove. Painting over the tape can be a lot easier if you use a sponging method. It keeps the polish from being too thick and creates a really cool finished look. You can always do multiple layers if you want a darker tone. Give the polish a minute or two to dry and gently remove the tape. Finish with a layer of top coat. Be creative and enjoy!

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Just Extensions has taken the concept of a one service only salon and run with it. Extensions are their game, and they are definitely coming in first place!

From Dry Bar to
Just Extensions

One-stop shops

When Dry Bar took the world by storm as the very first blow dry only bar, it became a phenomenon instantly, and since then, it has expanded all over the U.S. Dry Bar paved the way for one service salons everywhere, including the newly expanding Just Extensions Salon.

What is Just Extensions?

Just Extensions Salon offers just that, extensions only. JE found its home in Los Angeles on La Brea and 3rd Street and the salon has created a new craze in the world of extension styling. Taking a twist on the Dry Bar method and swapping blow dryers for experienced extensionists, Just Extensions Salon will faithfully grant all of your extension needs and more.

Interested in switching up your hair color and the color of your extensions? You got it! Is your hair looking a little flat with your extensions? They know just the trick! Want to add some length? No problem!

How it works

Just Extensions was created with the idea of being different than usual hair salons. This salon is not in the business of time consuming trips and overpriced services. They strive to make customers feel important, valued and more than satisfied on exit. Micro-links, braided sew-in, beaded one-step weft and fusion techniques are their signature packages and each ranges from $100-$300. Along with being able to skillfully add volume, length and color to your extensions, they also sell high quality weft, i-tip and u-tip 100 percent remi hair extensions online and in the salon.

This one service salon has perfected the extension business by mastering popular techniques and researching various ways to perfect their extension expertise. Every appointment, whether booked or a walk-in, includes a consultation from a top-notch extensionist in order to determine the perfect look for each and every customer. The salon asks that clients come with hair freshly washed and blow dried; however, if necessary, they will charge an additional fee to perform any extra services.

More hairstyle advice

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Modern Family starlet's style secrets

Sarah Hyland is the star of Ocean Pacific's summer line, which is totally cute and affordable. We hung out with her at an indoor pool party in NYC to hear about the line, her spring style must-haves and more!

Life's a beach for Sarah Hyland!

The Modern Family actress is one of the faces of Op's Spring/Summer campaign and she hosted an indoor pool party recently in NYC to celebrate and share her style advice.

Her biggest tip? "Dress to fit your figure," she told SheKnows. "I have really long legs and a really short torso, so I like to show off my legs more than my torso."

The 22-year-old also says you shouldn't be afraid to take some fashion risks. "I don't think you should be nervous about trying new trends. I think you should just be confident and bold in your decisions and so what if no one else is wearing it, as long as you think it's fun," she explained.

2013 SAG Awards

Sarah, who's petite, is currently loving platform sneakers for a casual, everyday look. "I have four pairs of wedge sneakers," she shared. "I want more. I'm 5'2"... I need all the help I can get. They're all super comfortable."

She's also learned that dressing down can be hot, thanks to her on-screen mom Julie Bowen. "Tomboys can be sexy, too," Sarah told us. Even though she can sometimes embrace her inner tomboy, at the end of a long day filming on set, Sarah likes to make sure her face is super clean. "I'm obsessed with Neutrogena makeup remover wipes," she says of her beauty must-have. "I always have been. That's the only way I clean my face!"

When asked what her favorite red carpet look so far was, Sarah described her 2013 SAG award dress to us. "I wore a Dolce & Gabbana dress," she shared. "It was purple and it just brought out the green in my eyes. It was sexy but really elegant and classic at the same time."

Sarah says she's not afraid to repeat outfits, just like Kate Middleton. "I still wear clothing that I wore freshman year of high school," she confessed. "I haven't grown much. I am the biggest repeat outfit offender of all. Once I find a good outfit, I wear it for like days and hope I don't see the same person twice in a row."

Not that you'd need to repeat clothes with the Op collection, which retails exclusively at Walmart. Considering how reasonably priced the line is , you can afford to buy a bunch of pieces to last you all summer long!

More celeb style

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Photo credit: Op, WENN.com

Ashley Riddle, makeup artist for Up-Do's For I Do's offers these tips for creating a flawless makeup base.

Start fresh

"Start with a clean face and clean hands," says Riddle. "We love Stages of Beauty Cleanser to clear the skin of any previous makeup. Follow with a moisturizer containing SPF."

Prime and conceal

"Prep your skin with a primer," suggests Riddle. "We find that Smashbox PhotoFinish works well with every skin tone and texture. Apply evenly throughout. Conceal under eyes and blemishes with NARS Concealer . Using the tip of the stick, apply lightly to areas that need it most. Use your ring finger to smudge concealer across skin."

Brush on your foundation

"Using a foundation brush , apply either a tinted moisturizer or liquid foundation," Riddle says. "The foundation brush [allows] the application to go on more smoothly and will soak up less of the product than a sponge. Ask a pro makeup artist to help determine what shade or product line will be best for your skin."

Set it to last

Set your foundation with a loose powder. "We suggest Sonia Kashuk Barely There Loose Powder ," explains Riddle. "Be sure to use a large powder brush. We find that MAC Cosmetics 150 Large Powder Brush works well. By adding a loose powder, the foundation will set and become more long lasting."

In addition to Riddle's helpful makeup tips, these other suggestions will create a flawless look, day in and day out.

Color match

With foundation, the most important thing in creating a natural look is to find the right color. The best place to match the shade is along your jawline. Once you have selected your color, apply your foundation sparingly. You want the foundation to just even out your skin tone — not mask your face. You can always add more, if you need it.

Concealer tips

There's always a debate on whether to apply concealer before or after your foundation. Makeup artist and beauty guru John Gustafson suggests if you are using a liquid or cream foundation, you should apply your concealer after the foundation. However if you are using a powder foundation, apply your concealer before the foundation.

Powder perfect

Apply your finishing powder with a puff or brush first to the areas where you normally get oily . Follow with a light dusting of powder all over the face.

More beauty tips

Best buys: Foundations
How to prevent dreaded mascara bleeding
Tips for office-appropriate makeup

Photo credit: Ashley Riddle, Up-Do's For I Do's

Diehard fans of Sex and the City are loving Annasophia Robb's portrayal of our beloved Carrie Bradshaw on the CW's The Carrie Diaries. The former child star has grown into quite the budding actress and fashionista — emphasis on the last part — and it's so fun to watch her style evolution.

Recently, Annasophia hit up an H&M event and rocked this super cute topknot and fresh makeup look. I turned to celeb makeup artist and hairstylist Sonia Lee to get the breakdown on the look. Have fun recreating it at home, dolls!

Get the hair

1. Starting with damp hair, spray volumizing spray on the roots and lightly all over.
2. Turn head upside down and start to blow dry.
3. Once hair is mostly dry, flip head back upright and blow dry the rest of the way with a round brush to polish locks.
4. Lightly curl hair and create a high ponytail, using bobby pins to pin it up into a messy bun.

More celebrity hairstyles

Celeb Hairstyle of the Week: Adele
Celeb Hairstyle of the Week: Mila Kunis
Celeb Hairstyle of the Week: Nina Dobrev

Photo credit: Dan Jackman/WENN.com

More fashion obsessions

Friday's Fashion Obsessions: Selena Gomez and Nikki Reed
Friday's Fashion Obsessions: Selena Gomez and Emma Stone
Friday's Fashion Obsessions: Mila Kunis and Jessica Alba

Photo credits: Adriana M. Barraza/WENN.com

More Friday fashion fun

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Friday's Fashion Fails: Jessica Chastain and Rihanna

Photo credit: Ai-Wire/WENN.com, FayesVision/WENN.com

What we love about these portable applicators and multipurpose makeup products is it's so easy to carry them anywhere. They are great for quick touch-ups on the go, whether you are heading home to the office or to your children's school. Plus, they are ideal when you are spending the night out on the town on that rare date night with your hubby and don't have much room in your small evening bag.

More beauty tips for moms

New ways to brighten tired eyes
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Platform sandals are hot once again this year. They are a great way to give any outfit a lift and aren't as hard on your feet as skinny stilettos. You don't need a super-high platform to give your look a boost — even a couple inches will add some funk and fun to any mom's outfit.

The peplum trend doesn't seem to be going anywhere, so it's time to embrace it. You can find dresses, skirts and shirts just about anywhere. We love the peplum hem tank top with its sleek leather waistband. Find out where you can get this cool top and other hot pieces that give new life to the peplum trend.

Floral prints are feminine and flirty. If a floral print dress is just too much for you, select floral shoes, handbags and other accessories instead. As the weather cools down, look for florals in burgundy, rust and navy hues.

Editor's pick:
Glamour Power to You Dress in Blueberry Muffin

Freshen up your wardrobe with mint-colored clothing and patterns. The color has a refreshing look to it that will help transform any outfit from dull to crisp. Pairing a mint-colored top with white pants or wearing accessories with this color is a definite wardrobe update.

If you find yourself always wearing jeans or yoga pants, it's time to mix things up and put on a dress. Even if you don't work in an office, you can find adorable shift and fit-and-flare dresses that will work for any occasion without looking uptight.

Just because you are a mom doesn't mean you have to stop dressing sexy. Just don't overdo it. Semi-sheer tops or blouses with sheer sleeves are on-trend right now, particularly in nude shades. Partner a nude, sheer top with a pair of skinny jeans and ballet flats for a stylish, pulled-together look that any mom can wear.

Bold oversized sunglasses have been all the rage for Hollywood celebs for quite some time. But lately, everyone is wearing them. If you don't like the look of the big round shades, aviator sunglasses are also a fabulous look.

A slick, glossy bag can perk up even the plainest ensemble. Choose a patent leather bag in a boxy, ladylike shape. This style is going to be very trendy this season. Select a handbag that isn't too big or too small so you can wear it for multiple occasions or even for everyday errands!

Jewelry can really change your look. Make a statement with a bold pendant or by layering different types of necklaces. Mix beads, chains and gemstone necklaces in varying lengths for a modern appeal.

Hats might be the most under-utilized accessory. From a funky beret to a resort-channeling fedora, hats can really add personal style to an outfit. They're a fun touch and can be worn many different ways. Try a gray fedora with a black outfit to give your ensemble a sleek touch.

More about mom style

How to dress up your favorite tee
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With proper nutrition, adequate exercise and other lifestyle changes, you can improve the condition of your skin and your overall health.

Most people know about the benefits of drinking water for general health. Water also is also a crucial part of keeping your skin hydrated and healthy. If your skin is dry and dull, try increasing your intake of water as well as using a moisturizer regularly. If you exercise a lot or live in dry climate, you may need more than the recommended eight glasses of water per day. Limit your intake of caffeine and alcohol, which can leave you dehydrated.

Exercise is important to keep your body fit, but it's also great for your skin. Cardiovascular exercise keeps skin-loving nutrients circulating through your bloodstream. Sometimes moms think they don't have time to exercise, but it's important to make time. Exercising doesn't necessarily mean going to the gym. It can be about taking the stairs at work instead of the elevator, or walking on your lunch hour or after dinner with your family. Also get out there and play with your kids -- a game of soccer or even a simple game of tag can get your heart rate up and work muscles that you forgot you had.

Your skin is the body's primary protector against toxins and germs. If your skin is healthy, then it's able to provide better protection -- so use caution when choosing skin care and hair care products. Detergents, petrochemicals, fragrances and other ingredients can clog pores, cause irritation and damage your skin. Look for cleansers, moisturizers, cosmetics and other skin care products that use natural and botanical ingredients rather than harsh chemicals.

Water crosses our cell membranes two ways: By diffusing through the lipid bilayer and via aquaporins, your skin's natural gateways that let water flow into millions of thirsty cells. Use a moisturizer morning and night to keep your skin hydrated and healthy. Pay special attention to the areas around your eyes and mouth -- where the skin is thinner, drier and wrinkles more easily. As you get older, your skin's needs change too. You will need a heavier moisturizer in your 40s than you did in your 20s.

The UV rays of the sun can cause premature aging, wrinkles, fine lines, age spots, discolorations and even skin cancer. Protect your skin with a sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher. If you are going to be in direct sunlight wear a hat and sunglasses to protect your scalp and eyes as well.

You might be thinking, "Yeah right!" but you really need to get more sleep. If you don't take care of yourself and get enough sleep, you won't be able to take care of your family. Your skin needs time to repair itself and that happens while you are asleep. Most adults need seven to eight hours a night, but the time varies tremendously from person to person. Test yourself a few nights in a row by sleeping until you wake up naturally -- then shoot for what you discover to be your optimum amount. Sufficient sleep also can help you avoid stress, which can cause breakouts, inflammation and other skin problems.

Are you still smoking? Studies show that the skin of cigarette smokers ages more than twice as fast as that of non-smokers. Smoking dehydrates your skin and depletes it of essential nutrients. Air pollution can cause similar problems, as well. Detoxify your skin by quitting smoking and limiting exposure to secondhand smoke and other pollutants.

Don't get mistaken for your son's grandma! Avoid wrinkles as much as you can. Free radicals result from the exposure to sun, smoke and pollution. They can cause inflammation and cellular damage to the collagen -- a main component of the connective tissue that keeps skin firm and wrinkle free. The antidote? Antioxidants, such as vitamins A, C and E, found in brightly colored fruits, berries, vegetables and some legumes. Eat foods rich in antioxidants and take supplements as necessary.

More beauty tips for moms

New ways to brighten tired eyes
Gloss for a cause: Makeup for you and your teen
Master the monochromatic face

Oftentimes moms spend so much time taking care of their families that they don't make time for themselves. If your busy schedule has you feeling "blah," perk yourself up along with your wardrobe with these fabulous fashion tips.

Tips for casual
yet stylish moms

Working from home might make it easier to spend all day in your pajamas, but with a little effort, your style can go from blah to a casual, fashionable mom.

Terrific tunics

Your casual wardrobe doesn't need to be frumpy. If you are constantly wearing oversized, tattered T-shirts, you will start to feel negative about your appearance. Turn in your big T-shirts for terrific tunics.

Tunics skim the body and flatter your figure with their long silhouette. You can find tunics in short and long sleeves to substitute for both baggy T-shirts and sweatshirts.

Choose tunics in pretty colors with embellishments such as ribbons, scalloping and lace trim. You can wear a tunic over a pair of jeans or shorts for everyday wear. If you need to get dressed up, you can belt a tunic over a pair of slacks or a pencil skirt.

Simple shoes

Instead of beat up tennis shoes and rubber flip flops, select comfortable, cute shoes. Substitute skimmers for your sneakers. Canvas skimmers come in a lot of fabulous colors and prints, from florals to plaids. They are inexpensive, comfy and can be worn with just about anything.

Rubber flip flops aren't attractive on anyone. Therefore, unless you are headed to the beach or a public shower, put on sandals instead. Slip-on slide sandals in glossy patent leather are a fabulous choice. Choose flat or low-heeled sandals that are both practical and fashionable. For winter, buy one good pair of suede or leather ankle boots that you love. Just make sure the heel is not too high. You need to be able to move quickly to chase the kids around.

Beautiful hair

You don't need to spend hours primping to have a beautiful head of hair. If you are going gray, dye your roots every six to eight weeks to keep your hair looking its best. If you are always in a hurry, don't skip the conditioner. Instead buy a two-in-one product to keep your hair hydrated and healthy.

In the mornings, brush out your hair and pull it into a ponytail or twist. Get a good haircut that requires as little maintenance as possible. On those bad hair days, don't leave the house with your hair sticking out every which way. Instead, slick it back with pomade or gel and add a headband. If all else fails, have a couple of cute hats on hand — one casual and one more formal. No one needs to know your hair isn't cooperating.

More about mom style

How to dress up your favorite tee
Busting mommy style myths
5 Ways to wear a blazer

More about mom style

How to dress up your favorite tee
Busting mommy style myths
5 Ways to wear a blazer