Category: Lifestyle

Everyone wishes to have a picture-perfect smile with uniform-looking teeth. While some are blessed with one naturally, some need help getting there. If you belong to the latter and are contemplating your options, this article shares why Invisalign braces are a better option over metal braces. Invisalign dental braces have clearly taken over the trend for people of all ages.

Convenience
If you need minimal adjustment like getting rid of the gap between teeth and moving teeth to their appropriate position without extracting any molars, this option eliminates the complex treatment of metal braces.

Comfort
You can choose from either BPA-free plastic or acrylic material. Invisalign braces are custom-built for the patient’s comfort. The smooth surface of the Invisalign braces eliminates the risk of getting cuts on the tongue and inside of the mouth. That means you’re looking at no extra dental visits to adjust the metal brackets or deal with the cuts.

Low maintenance
Invisalign braces can be cleaned at home, and it’s super simple to take care of them. All Invisalign braces come with a solution to make them squeaky-clean; this saves you from an additional dental visit for cleaning.

Liberty of eating everything
With Invisalign, you don’t have to curb your temptation of gum, candy, corn chips, popcorn, or pretzels. This is because the Invisalign trays are to be removed while eating, as chewing can cause serious damage to them. They are safe and easy to remove.

Aesthetically pleasing
Unlike the traditional metal braces, Invisalign braces are aesthetically pleasing as they’re barely visible. They won’t ruin your pictures from graduation or take away your confidence from giving a sales pitch at work. In fact, after a few weeks, you’ll barely even notice that you have them on.

Fewer dental visits
This option also involves fewer dental visits since these braces can be cleaned at home and don’t need a replacement if they’re well-maintained. This, in the long run, ends up saving you the time and cost of every appointment.

Lesser tenure of treatment
While braces are a permanent fix until the dental treatment is over, Invisalign allows you to set the braces aside for two hours daily. While an average treatment with braces can be two years long, Invisalign braces only take six to 18 months to show results. Of course, the tenure of treatment could differ based on the level of adjustment needed by a user. Invisalign braces demand way less commitment than conventional metal braces. They sure are an expensive option, but they’re also easy to maintain, demand fewer orthodontist visits, and are way more comfortable than metal braces.

Our wardrobe is usually brimming with clothes, yet we end up circling around it not knowing what to wear. Ironically, we end up repeating our favourite dress. If we just described you, scroll down this list of dresses that are so versatile, you could style them for different occasions. This list might remind you of the dress you haven’t worn in a very long time or will inspire you to buy the kind your wardrobe lacks.

Shirt Dress
The shirt dress took over the trend thanks to the versatile styling options you get: wear it with denims, by itself, or wear a belt around it. You won’t run out of new ways to wear the same shirt dress. Style this dress with sneakers for a casual look or accessorize it with a belt, heels and chic jewellery for a sit-out brunch.

Little Black Dress
Women of all ages have a place in their closet for the classic little black dress. The ideal kind would be knee-length with a modest neckline, so it can be worn to work with cute kitten heels and with your favourite pair of stilettos or tie ups for a night out. An LBD will always have your back, and that’s a universal truth.

Beach Dress
Taking a vacation to a tropical destination or heading to the beach one summer morning? A short flowy dress is what you need. The comfort of a dress like that with flip flops will make it difficult for you to opt for other attires during summer.

Cocktail Dress
A glam night at the casino or your best friend’s cocktail party calls for a nice cocktail dress with a thigh-high slit. While a strappy, high halter is the classic cocktail dress style, you can also choose to go with bell sleeves and a plunge neck delicately adorned with jewellery.

Retro Dress
A cute, knee-length polka dot dress is perfect for an occasion you want to play cute. Team it with pearls or a headscarf and a pair of cat-eye glasses, and you’ll be donning the perfect Audrey Hepburn look.

Midi Dress
A calf-length dress is the most appealing style of all fashion generations. A fitted midi dress is perfect to flaunt your figure on a date night and if you’re wanting to keep it subtle, wear it with a cardigan or a pashmina, and it would still look classy.

Strappy Jumpsuit
Have a party to attend after work? Put on your mono-colored jumpsuit with a blazer to show in for work and get ready to rock the evening by just keeping the formal blazer behind. No one at work would even guess you’re headed to a party post work.

Singlet Dress
Remember Rachel Green’s outfit from her date with Joshua? The full length, black singlet dress with slits till the upper thigh? Yes, that one! Singlet dresses can be paired with a cardigan for when you’re out shopping or doing groceries, and you can dress it up with your favourite pair of shoes for an evening out.

Every once in a while, you may find yourself in dire need of switching your old kitchen appliances with new, updated versions. However, this endeavor can be quite expensive if you aren’t careful about where you put your money. There are certain factors that must be taken into consideration when you are shopping for appliances for your kitchen.

Here are some tips to help you save money when buying doing so:

Consider buying used appliances
Another smart and affordable option to consider when buying electronic appliances is to look for good-quality used appliances. Several stores often sell used gadgets at incredibly low prices, most of which are in good condition. Just make sure that you know exactly what you are looking for so as not to get conned into buying something useless.

If you are someone who believes that the inside is what matters, then you will end up saving up a lot of money on appliances by buying them from the scratch-and-dent section of a store. These appliances are all usually in great working condition and are sold for a much lower price due to their external blemishes.

Wait for the holidays
It is also a good idea to wait till a holiday to buy electronics. Sales and discounts during this time are offered by most brands, and consumers generally benefit from them to a great extent. The Black Friday sale is probably the best season to buy major electronic appliances. Even though it is a long time until Thanksgiving, it doesn’t hurt to keep your eyes open for any clearance sale banners that you may see in electronics stores.

Buy only what you need
Once you step into a big shiny store of electronic gadgets, it can be quite tempting to buy everything that fancies you. Try and let go of these temptations and prioritize the gadgets that you need the most. It is also important to know exactly what specifications you are looking for so that there aren’t any regrets about buying the wrong appliance.

Buy an older model
Another helpful tip that can save you some bucks while shopping for kitchen gadgets is to look for an older model of the same appliance. While newer appliances may offer better features, they are also much more expensive. An older model will help you get the job done without costing you a fortune.

Never compromise on quality
That said, you must never forget the fact that kitchen appliances are supposed to last for a long time. You need to make sure that you pick the best-quality product that fits the budget range that you have decided on. Ensure that you check all the specifications and double-check the reviews before making the purchase.

Anyone who has ever picked a cigarette will tell you how they wish they never had. Yet, the craving always overpowers the will to quit, trapping smokers in a perpetual cycle. That doesn’t mean there’s no end, though. It takes time, but sooner or later, everyone can quit and lead a tobacco-free life. The benefits are there for all to see: non-smokers are at a lower risk than smokers of developing chronic conditions like cancer.

So if you’re planning on doing the right thing and keeping out the smoke from your system, here are a few strategies and products that will help you in this mission.

Strategies to quit smoking
Follow these tried-and-tested strategies to quit smoking.

Write your reasons for quitting
Emotions are essential when planning to quit. By writing down the reasons for quitting, you constantly remind yourself of what you love more than a cigarette. It could be your family, their health, your health, and money.

Make a plan, and stick to it
Setting aside a date for quitting can prove useful. Many people have had success with it, so it makes sense to give it a try. A plan also reinforces the inner desire to quit and lead a healthy life. It boosts willpower and keeps you motivated on the journey.

Involve your friends and family
Quitting is more than a one-person job. So you shouldn’t go all alone as you might end up getting discouraged and eventually lose motivation. Hence, tell your close friends and family members that you’re preparing to quit. Ask for their support at crucial times. This will keep you focused and determined.

Products to help quit smoking
Now that you know some strategies to quit smoking, take a look at a few highly-recommended products that can help you put down the cigarette pack for good.

Nicotine patch
If your craving for nicotine is getting out of hand, try using a nicotine patch. It is a small patch that you apply over a hairless area of the skin once a day. It contains a small dose of nicotine, which is steadily released in the body to satisfy the craving. You can find a nicotine patch at any local drugstore.

Nicotine gum
Nicotine gums work almost the same way as nicotine patches. The only difference is that instead of an adhesive patch, nicotine gums come in the form of edible gums. You have to chew it until it tastes peppery. This is when the nicotine from it is released into the body. Beginners can use as many as 24 pieces of nicotine gum a day.

Nicotine lozenges
These come in the form of chewable tablets that dissolve slowly in your mouth. They contain nicotine, which slowly enters your bloodstream and satisfies the craving. Withdrawal symptoms can also be cured with these tablets. They’re available at most drugstores without a prescription.

Cocktails are crowd-pleasers. You throw in one or two classics, and any party comes to life. Sometimes, “me time” may also seem incomplete without a nice, fresh drink. So, a cocktail really is an essential factor, which is why we’re going to teach some classic cocktail recipes. Besides the taste, the best part is that these cocktails only require three ingredients and take only 10 minutes to prepare. Cheers!

Here are some three-ingredient cocktail recipes you will impress your guests right away.

Manhattan
Rumor has it that the Manhattan was invented in New York City’s Manhattan Club around 1880. So, the drink has been part of civilization for over a century, which suggests that it definitely has something intriguing. Whiskey, sweet vermouth, Angostura bitters are the three ingredients required to make this drink. You can also add a brandied cherry for garnish if you’re feeling fancy. It tastes sweet, smoky, and smooth.

Margarita
While it’s unclear when and how the drink was invented, there’s absolutely no doubt that the margarita is one of America’s most loved cocktails. And if you’ve ever tasted it, you’ll know why! There are a few different ways to make a margarita. Some prefer liqueur, and others agave syrup. Regardless, ensure that your tequila is smooth and your lime juice fresh and tasty.

Negroni
Negroni was invented in the beautiful Florence by the Italian Count Camillo Negroni in the early 20th century. It is a strong cocktail full of character and depth. Gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth are the three ingredients used to make this drink. Choosing the type of vermouth is important, as it has a big impact on the overall taste.
To make a Negroni, add the gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth to a glass filled with ice. Stir until it’s well-chilled. Then, strain it into a glass filled with large ice cubes. Garnish with an orange peel to round it off.

Strawberry Lime Champagne
If there’s something to celebrate, add this to the menu. Lime juice, pureed strawberry, and champagne are the three ingredients used here. Since strawberries need to be pureed, it’s best to use strawberries that are at room temperature. Combine fresh lime to the puree and blend well before adding about 1/4th of it in a glass with some champagne. It is a delicious drink that no one can say no to.

Americano
Popularised by James Bond in Ian Fleming’s 1953-book “Casino Royale,” the Americano is very similar to the Negroni, with the only exception being that it uses soda water instead of gin. Picking fresh vermouth is imperative as old vermouth is mostly water. Get that right, and you’re staring at a refreshing, light drink that can be enjoyed any time of the day.

Hot tubs are a great way to relax and get relief from body pain. Although it seems costly, a hot tub is an excellent investment that will last you long. Now, the hot tub industry has several leading brands and options, making it difficult to choose. To make it easy for you to pick one that suits your needs, we have made a list of the top five hot tub brands.

Sundance® Spas
Sundance® Spas has more than 40 years of excellence and specializes in different kinds of hot tubs and spas. A variety of different models and sizes makes it easy for you to pick a hot tub that suits your needs. The jets used by the company are sturdy and controllable. The hot tubs are compatible with the SmartTub mobile app, which makes it easy for you to schedule repairs and maintenance and control them. However, the app requires a paid subscription after the first year. Sundance hot tubs start from $7999, and the premium models cost over $16,000.

Jacuzzi
The manufacturer offers some of the best high-quality tubs that range from $4,000 to over $16,000. They come with a combination of 12 high-pressure jets for hydrotherapy. Jacuzzi’s seats provide deep tissue massage, while its jets help relax the shoulders and back. The hot tubs use a multi-stage filtration process and UV light to neutralize pathogens.

Master Spas
Master Spas has hot tubs in various sizes that come with different combinations of high-powered jets. The brand offers a mix of unique standard features and upgrades, particularly in the entry-level and mid-level price ranges. Of the 21 hot tub models that it sells, 13 fall into the entry- and mid-level price ranges. You can also opt for extra functionalities like Wi-Fi, app compatibility, and fusion air sound systems. The seat comes equipped with a neck and shoulder massager that provides relief using magnet therapy. Although the website does not mention the cost, it does mention the price range of the tubs.

Hot Spring® Spas
Hot Spring® Spas hot tubs are great for those who don’t want to splurge. It has a wide variety of small-sized hot tubs that are best suited for compact spaces. They also come with different energy-saving features. The company’s entry-level tubs cost up to $7000, mid-range tubs cost anywhere between $9000 and $11,000, and premium ones can go over $13,000. Although it doesn’t offer as many customizations as its competitors, the brand does have quite a decent selection of jets.

Bullfrog Spas
Bullfrog Spas hot tubs have more efficient plumbing functionalities and can be fully customized. There are a variety of shapes and sizes to select from, and most of the models have a JetPack system. The hot tubs are compatible with an app. The brand offers basic sanitation features and options to upgrade the tub. While the company doesn’t mention the prices on its website, it does list down which spa lines fall into each of its tiers. The mid-range tubs cost between $5,000 and $8,0000, and the high-tier ones can go over $18,000.

Cleaning the house is extremely burdensome due to the sheer effort it takes. Even having a vacuum cleaner may not be all that convenient due to the noise levels and having to clean the dust bag constantly. But, thanks to the appliance’s evolution, the chore is now a lot more doable several times a week. If you’re planning to replace your old cleaner anytime soon, check this list of the most affordable robot vacuum brands.

Eufy
The brand Eufy is well known for its smart home appliances and their robot vacuums are often highly in-demand. Their RoboVac category is divided by technology used and they are categorised into Bounce Series, Smart Dynamic Navigation Series and iPath Laser Navigation Series. The brand offers robot vacuums ranging from as low as $219.99 to a whopping $499.99. RoboVac 11S is the starting model and yet made it to the “Best robot vacuums of 2019” by Tom’s Guide.

Eureka
The tried and tested brand comes with over 100 years of experience. Eureka has long been a house-hold name, which of course wouldn’t be possible if it weren’t for its quality, innovation and value for money. Their wide variety of appliances from this brand also includes some of the most affordable robot vacuums with features like programmed set times, customised cleaning, and super slim bodies to clean easily under furniture and carpets. The Eureka Groove tops many lists of the most affordable robot vacuums, and featuring prominently on these is their budget-friendly Eureka Groove NER300.

Neato
The brand specializes in the innovation of robot vacuums, and its parts and accessories. The brand takes pride in the innovation field, which includes them being the first among the laser-navigating robot vacuums, D-shaped design, app-enabled vacuums, and Alexa/ Echo- enabled robot vacuums. Given their up to date features and quality performance, the Neato robot vacuums are considerably reasonably priced. Neato Botvac D3 Connected falls under their range of affordable models.

Ecovacs
With over 20 years of experience under the belt, the brand excels in smart home appliances that cater to both home and industrial cleaning, air-purification, security, and surveillance. Ecovacs strives to create and excel at home service robotics to further encourage the liberty that comes with smart living. The brand offers robot vacuums starting at $199.99 and goes up to $799.99, and the Deebot 500, OZMO U2, and N79W are among its most affordable options.

Irobot
This brand has made its mark in the global market as their Roomba product line has successfully created its recall value as a robot vacuum company. Along with Roomba Vacuums and Braava Mops, the brand sells parts and accessories for appliances. They boast mid-ranged bot vacuums starting from $300, but no list of robot vacuums is complete without this brand. The Roomba 690 is the most affordable option among the category, and is something you must consider.

It is important to have the right kind of mattress – one that supports the body, is comfortable, and eases pain, to avoid body ache and discomfort. With a plethora of options out there, spring and foam mattresses being two of the most popular kinds, figuring out what’s best can get difficult. To ease things down, here are the differences between these two types of mattresses.

Different types of mattresses:

• Memory foam: These mattresses are built using several layers of memory foam and support foam. They are designed to take the shape of the sleeper. After the pressure is removed, the mattress regains its original shape.
• Spring: Spring mattresses are built using springs or coils that help distribute body weight.

Durability:

• Memory foam: Memory foam mattresses are more durable than spring mattresses. They can last up to 25 years, depending on the quality and brand of the mattress.
• Spring: Spring mattresses are quite durable. However, the springs may loosen, and the mattress may lose its firmness. These mattresses last for anywhere between 5-10 years.

Support:

• Memory foam: It contours to the body’s shape, supporting all parts of the body equally. It regains its shape when you move. It also absorbs movement making it a great option for those who share their bed with a partner.
• Spring: Spring mattresses have springs to support body weight, ensuring that a person will not sink into the mattress. Unlike memory foam mattresses, they are firm. Nevertheless, they do not support every part of the body evenly.

Effect on body pain:

• Memory foam: A memory foam mattress takes a person’s shape, supporting every part of their body, especially the spine. It alleviates body pain and provides pressure relief.
• Spring: Spring mattresses are a great option for people with lower back pain. Nevertheless, these mattresses do not uniformly support the body and may aggravate pain in other parts of the body.

Temperature:

• Memory foam: Memory foam mattresses tend to retain body heat. As a result, beds have added cooling technologies to solve this problem.
• Spring: Spring mattresses have an enhanced airflow which helps regulate the temperature.

Price:

• Memory foam: Memory foam mattresses are moderately expensive. The price ranges anywhere between $800 and $2500, depending on the size and the brand you choose.
• Spring: Spring mattresses are relatively cheaper than most mattresses. They cost anywhere from $300 to $900. People who are on a lower budget can opt for it.

Which is better?
If you suffer from body aches or are a light sleeper, memory foam mattresses would make a good pick. However, if you prefer firmer mattresses and have a lower budget, spring mattresses are a great option. Either way, both mattresses are durable and easy to maintain.

One can do laundry following a few easy steps, such as tucking the clothes into the machine, adding detergent, and adjusting the settings. But when you have delicate skin that is prone to breakouts and rashes, a little more care is necessary. Right from adding the correct amount of detergent to washing the clothes well, small measures can benefit your skin. To avoid allergies, here are five useful laundry tips for sensitive skin.

Wash clothes before use
No matter where you buy clothes from, be it a boutique or an online store, all garments need to be washed before use, especially when you have sensitive skin. This also means that you should avoid trying out clothes at retail stores since the chemicals on the fabric can irritate the skin. Remember that clean apparel will keep your skin safe.

Add an extra rinse cycle
If your washing machine has an option of an extra rinse cycle, make full use of it. An additional rinse at the end of a wash helps remove residues in the creases of the clothes. Sometimes the machine fails to flush out detergent or dirt completely. The extra rinse cycle removes leftover detergent from the clothes, which may otherwise cause irritation if it comes in contact with sensitive skin.

Use warm water
Warm water can destroy allergens that are hidden in the fabric of your clothes. Washing your clothes, blankets, and linens in it can reduce the chances of skin allergies. The high temperature acts as a catalyst to the function of the detergent. It speeds up the process of cleaning and removes germs, dirt, and debris.

Choose detergents with mild formulas
Using a detergent with a mild formulation is a laundry tip that people with sensitive skin swear by. Ordinary detergents can be harsh on the skin because of their chemical-concentrated formulas. Always check the labels at the back of the product to ensure that it is free of perfumes and harmful chemicals. The same stands true for fabric softeners. Use a brand that specifically caters to soft and sensitive skin.

Clean the washer
Although washing machines have a lot of soap and water churning in them, they can harbor dirt and bacteria over time. The germs can possibly seep into your clothes before you take them out of the machine. Therefore, machines should be cleaned with water and an organic disinfectant to avoid the accumulation of irritants.
Washing your clothes with proactive measures forms a big part of caring for delicate skin. The above laundry tips can help prevent skin allergies from clothes. If your skin is extremely sensitive and still reacts to gentle formulas, speak to a dermatologist about the brands of detergent you can use.

Coffee serves as an essential part of the morning routine for most of us. A good cup of coffee can turn your day around and help you feel energized and ready to take over the world. While it has definitely earned a bad name for its various effects, coffee can actually be good for you if consumed in moderate quantities. Here are some antioxidants that are commonly present in your morning cup of joe.

Caffeine
Did you know that caffeine also acts as an antioxidant? Its structure is similar to that of uric acid, a known antioxidant that helps our body combat headaches and gives us the burst of energy that we know very well. Research is also being done to understand how caffeine present in tea or coffee can help improve certain heart diseases.

Quinine
Quinine is an antioxidant in coffee that is known to give it the signature bitter taste. The potency of quinine in coffee beans becomes more prominent after the beans are roasted. This antioxidant is used as a primary substance in treating malaria since it effectively kills the malarial parasite that infects the body.

Hydrocinnamic acids
Hydrocinnamic acids are substances that can neutralize free radicals in our body. Some free radicals that can be neutralized by hydrocinnamic acid are 3-Caffeoylquinic acid, 4-Caffeoylquinic acid, and 5-Caffeoylquinic acid.

Polyphenols
Polyphenols are a large group of compounds that contain more than one phenol unit. These compounds are beneficial for our health and can help improve digestion, brain function, heart health, and slowing down the process of aging. Chlorogenic acid is one of the major polyphenols present in coffee.

Trigonelline
Trigonelline is an alkaloid compound that breaks down in our body to give nicotinic acid and pyridines. Nicotinic acid, or niacin, is also known as vitamin B3 and is one of the essential vitamins needed by our body. Trigonelline has antibacterial qualities and can be extremely helpful in maintaining dental health in people. The signature aroma of coffee is given to it by trigonelline. This antioxidant is found particularly in green coffee.

Cafestol
Cafestol is a diterpene that serves as an antioxidant to the body. It helps in maintaining the health of our digestive system by regulating the amount of bile secreted in the intestines. Unlike some other antioxidants, cafestol is still found in coffee after decaffeination and tremendously improves brain health and memory by reducing any inflammation in the brain.