Monday, June 15, 2020

How to start a real estate business?

How to start a real estate business?

 

Starting a real estate business is not for the “faint of heart”. What other industry requires you to capture dozens of leads every day, knowing that you can close no more than five transactions in your first year (if you're lucky)?

By most estimates, 87% of real estate agents fail in the first five years. But for those who have what it takes, starting your own real estate business can absolutely give you the seven-digit reward of your dreams.




 

Plan like a real estate business boss

 You know the old saying about not planning, right?

 

The vast majority of real estate agents find it much easier to work in their own businesses than for others. For many new agents, the real estate sector is their second, third or even fourth career.

You loved the idea of ​​"being your own boss" while realizing that you do more than you did at your last job. But freedom has a very different meaning for an employee versus an entrepreneur.

 

1. Create your ideal personal plan

 Before setting the right financial goals for your business, you need clear financial goals for your life.

The commissions are great, but - let's face it - we all got into this business wanting something bigger and better than what we have now. Whether it's the yacht of your dreams, or the possibility to leave the office at two in the afternoon so you can pick up your kids from school. Take time to think about what your ideal life would be like.

 

Find out how much you need to set aside each month for this to happen. It is much easier to keep answering that phone when you know exactly where your profits and commissions are going .

 

 

2. Align your business plan

 Now that you've put your pen on paper to find out exactly how much your paycheck should be for the life you intend to have, it's time to talk business.

 

Start writing your business plan, paying special attention to the things that set you apart from other real estate businesses in your area. Think a little. This is where your personal and business identities can really come together to create profit-driving magic.

 

Even if you are just looking to take the administrative work out of your duties by hiring your first virtual assistant, it is essential to create this overview to keep your team inspired and to avoid repeating unproductive patterns.

 

3. Build a Consistent Marketing Plan

 In the beginning, it was all about passing CRECI, selecting your best-fit broker and building your database without looking like a “salesperson” to friends and family in your sphere of influence.

 

But stepping back and stopping as soon as the recommendations start to appear, is one of the biggest mistakes that growing real estate agents make. Whether your dream is to become the next Facebook ad guru or a Google Ads conversion master, the only thing you really need to know about marketing is that it is the only part of your business that never sleeps.

 

Train your brain how to think strategically about what's going on in your market and be ready to offer something of value to your leads, no matter where they come from.

 

 

4. Create a website

 For 44% of all property buyers in the online world , the first step they take is an online survey.

No matter how much local marketing you do, you need a web presence to attract more leads in the web universe. It can cost a little money up front, but a solid website, focused on SEO (organic reach in search engines), which allows you to integrate ads from other portals and insert leads directly into your CRM, is a crucial basis for every business successful real estate. After enabling this feature, you can start moving towards a consistent blog and social media strategy to generate more leads.

 

5. Consistent prospecting

Shiny object syndrome is a major problem in the real estate industry. But the most consistent agent always wins. So, choose your prospecting system and follow it.

 

In the early days, it is never a bad idea to optimize your historical contact base. The Atlanta-based Graham Seeby Group transformed a list of just 279 contacts into $ 90 million in home sales in just four years, that is, segmented an appropriate base for its business model.

 

 

7. Get organized

 At the end of the day, a company is a system, that is, it involves processes, inputs and outputs.

Barry Jenkins is the owner-broker of the Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Team in the United States. He's also a guy who doesn't appreciate inefficiency. “I, due to a failure, like to make things easier. The reason my business is so successful is that it was built on the basic principle of leverage. ”

 

To bring this principle to life, Barry uses his CRM as a true lead conversion machine. It guides the relevant incentive campaigns based on the source of the lead (social networks, telephone, offline media, among others) and automates the entire transaction process.

 

8. Have good time management

 If you're like most of us - real estate agents - a big part of the dream is to have more time and energy for the things that really motivate you.

 

But most agents who propose to build a real estate business did not consider this in the plan. They end up generating a “revolving door” for team members and have to roll up their sleeves and try to overcome the operational problem of day-to-day business. But do not need be like that!

 

For automation experts like Barry, the desire to regain time for both him and his team was a key motivation. "I had to find a way to add so much value to my brokers that they wouldn't leave and, in the process, figure out a way to free up some time so I could focus on my family." That's where automation can make all the difference.

 

When you reach the point of being responsible, not only for your own success, but also for the success of your team, it is extremely important to give them every chance to win. Let automation take on some of the heavy lifting so everyone can focus on what matters most.

 

 

Did you like the tips? Share this post with a dear friend, a partner or potential partner, and win in your real estate business.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


Know Before You Go On Your Trip Overseas


There is much that you can do to prepare for your trip abroad, depending on where you are going, how long you are staying, and your reasons for traveling.

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The following suggestions and sources may be useful:

Do your homework and read as much as possible about the countries in which you plan to travel. Informing yourself about a nation’s history, culture, customs and politics will make your stay more meaningful. Such information can be found in most libraries, bookstores and tourist bureaus. Although English is spoken in many countries, it is a good idea to learn what you can of the language of the country in which you will be traveling.

Travel agents can provide brochures and tourist information about the countries that you wish to visit.

Most international airlines can supply you with travel brochures about the countries that they serve. Many countries have tourist information offices in main cities in the United States where you can obtain travel brochures and maps.

Foreign embassies or consulates in the United States can provide up-to-date information on their countries. Addresses and telephone numbers of the embassies of foreign governments are listed in the Congressional Directory, available at most public libraries. In addition to their embassies, some countries also have consulates in major U.S. cities. Look for their addresses in your local telephone directory, or find them in the publication, Foreign Consular Offices in the United States, available in many public libraries, or on the state department travel web site.

The Department of State publishes Background Notes on countries worldwide. These are brief, factual pamphlets with information on each country’s culture, history, geography, economy, government, and current political situation. The Background Notes are available for approximately 170 countries. They often include a reading list, travel notes and maps. To purchase copies, you can contact the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402, or call (202) 512-1800. Select issues are also available from the Department of State’s Bureau of Public Affairs, fax-on-demand, by calling (202) 736-7720 from your fax machine or on the Department of State’s home page.

The Consular Information Program provides pertinent information for travelers. The U.S. Department of State issues fact sheets, known as Consular Information Sheets, on every country in the world. You should obtain the Department of State’s Consular Information Sheet for any country that you will visit. The sheets contain information about crime and security conditions, areas of instability, and other details pertaining to travel in a particular country.

The Department of State also issues Travel Warnings and Public Announcements. Travel Warnings are issued when the Department of State recommends deferral of travel by Americans to a country because of civil unrest, dangerous conditions, and terrorist activity and/or because the United States has no diplomatic relations with the country and cannot assist an American citizen in distress.

Public Announcements are issued as a means to disseminate information quickly about terrorist threats and other relatively short-term and/or transnational conditions, which would pose significant risks to American travelers.

Tired Of The Same Old Hotels

If you’re tired of the same old cookie cutter hotels when you travel maybe it’s time you spiced up your stays with some unique hotel ideas that will make your trip more memorable.

Tired-Of-The-SameOld-Hotels


Make note of any interesting hotels you come across while surfing the Web or watching TV. When traveling pick up any brochures of unique accommodations you find. Many times a hotel lobby will be filled with these little brochures all arranged in a nice little display rack.

Consider staying at a Bed and Breakfast. B & Bs are becoming increasingly popular as each one provides a unique experience over any standard hotel chain. From quiet often charming rooms to great homemade food these are many times cheaper than regular hotels and motels.

Inns.com and BedandBreakfast.com are two great Web sites that can help you find the perfect Bed and Breakfast in your destination city.

If you are traveling abroad and seek a special kind of quiet try a convent or monastery for a truly unique experience. In many countries you can stay for far less than what a hotel would cost with some places only asking for a token offering. Just be prepared to give up some of the more traditional hotel amenities like TV for the peace and quiet.

If you don’t mind spending about what you would for a decent hotel check out the offerings at TabletHotels.com where you will find a unique selection of inns and hotels that have been personally rated by guests from all over the world.

If plan on traveling to one of the great parks in the United States check into staying at a nearby lodge or cabin. Many parks have on-site accommodations and of course you could always pitch a tent if you really wanted to rough it and save money.

When a friend of mine goes on vacations he looks for condos or homes for rent. This can be a great idea if you are traveling with your family as you get all the comforts of home and can save money buy cooking your own meals.

Many people will do a house swap with you as well but if you happen to live in a spot that might not be very popular with travelers it could be hard finding someone to swap with you.

Going to Europe and into backpacking? You might consider staying at a youth hostel during your continental travels. Many have a dormitory arrangement with shared baths and kitchens but they can be quite inexpensive and you get a great opportunity to meet some interesting people. Just be sure to use a little common sense if you plan on staying in a group environment.

These are just a few of the many options available to the traveler looking for a little more adventure. Keep your eyes and your mind open to new possibilities and you will be rewarded with rich memories for years to come.

Smart And Safe Travel Tips For The Business Woman

Women today travel constantly and that too all over the world. Most manage to successfully juggle a professional life with a private one. Statistics reveal that almost 50% of business travelers are women and the number continues to grow each day. Travel at short notice means being organized and ready to go. Be smart and plan well ahead.

Smart-And-Safe-Travel-Tips-For-The-Business-Woman


1. Keep on tab a list of baby sitters who would be willing to pitch in, even overnight if required. Keep a small book handy in which you jot down things like what the kids eat, their schedules, important phone numbers, likes and dislikes, as well as numbers of the doctors and list of medications including known allergies.

2. Keep a travel bag always packed and ready to go. Pack a combination of clothes so that they will tide you over irrespective of the weather in your destination. Wear easy to maintain and dark colors on trips. They don’t show stains, are wrinkle free and will drape well.

3. Always eat lightly and foods that are cooked avoid raw salads and water as well as ice. It is wise to snack before a flight and also to try and sleep during flight. This way you will arrive at your destination refreshed. Be sure to drink plenty of bottled water during travel.

4. Set up a schedule to call home at time zones that work for you and your loved ones. Make it a point to get mementoes for your family members as also the baby sitter and others who pick up the slack while you are away. It shows them that you care.

5. Put safety first always place a “do not disturb sign on your hotel door and if nervous place a chair under the door knob like they do in movies. Keep your cell phone on and fully charged by you at all times and carry protection in the form of pepper spray, an alarm, or if you are trained and licensed a small weapon with its safety on. In most cities the police organize training classes for women to learn how to protect themselves and what one must do in an emergency. Try and make time to attend these.

6. Avoid dark lanes and abandoned roads. Never talk to strangers or accept food or drink from someone you don’t know. While traveling never leave food or drink unattended. Be vigilant at all times.

7. Choose a hotel with care. Choose to stay at well established hotels or small inns and B&B where the proprietors are generally family people. Always e-mail and fax details of your staying arrangements and travel plans to your home as well as office.

8. Always carry important documents, money, traveler’s checks, and passport in a money belt worn around your waist.

9. Always act confident and move around in groups there is always safety in numbers.

10. If unwell go to a state run hospital. Never to a private clinic.

11. Never travel with valuables like jewelry and always carry a small flashlight and medical kit with you.

12. For safety reasons arrange with your family to take appropriate action if you do not get in touch with them as planned.

Avoid room service and eat in the hotel dinning room. Also never reveal details of where you come from or your travel plans to anyone.

Be vigilant and smart and you will be able to travel often and safely.

Tuesday, June 9, 2020

Cleaning And Organizing Your Computer

It is a good idea to think of your PC as an office. It stores files, programs, pictures. This can be compared to an actual office’s files, machines and decorations. The operating system is the boss. With this image in mind, think of an office you’ve visited that was slow and inefficient. 

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There were probably many different reasons for the inefficiency. This is the same with a computer. There can be many items that slow down your computer. Perhaps the one most commonly overlooked is disorganization and clutter.

Disk Cleanup:

An office can accumulate a lot of unnecessary files, machines, and decorations. This is the same with your computer. One of the best ways to keep this clutter under control is to perform a cleaning utility periodically. In Windows this cleaning utility will be called a “disk cleanup.” It removes a variety of unnecessary files depending on the options you have selected.

To perform a disk cleanup on Windows XP you can simply click on “my computer” under the start menu. Than right click on your “c drive” or “hard disk” and choose properties. Than click “disk cleanup” and follow the prompts. When selecting files to clean up, or delete, Windows will give you information to help you decide. When looking over the list of file types, you would simple click on the name of the file type and read the description placed below in the description area. This will let you know if the files can be safely deleted. To select the file group just check the box next to the group name. When finished selecting press “OK” to finish.

Now, performing a disk cleanup is not very time consuming, just a couple minutes, and it may save more time in the end by making your computer run faster. However, a disk cleanup should be run periodically rather than just once in a great while. One way to make this run periodically is to make it a scheduled task. This will allow your computer to run it automatically with intervals and time of day determined by you. Yet, you can always run it yourself periodically without creating a scheduled task.

Add or Remove Programs:

The information given above can help you get rid of some unnecessary files, but you may also need to clean out some unnecessary programs as well. This can be done using the “add or remove programs” utility in Windows. This is located in the control panel and lists all of your currently installed programs along with an option to uninstall them. It is a good idea to browse through the add or remove programs utility every once in a while just to make sure that all programs are of usefulness.

If there are programs listed that are no longer used, you can simply highlight the program and click the uninstall button. Windows will than begin the process to uninstall the program. In most cases, to finish uninstalling a program, it is wise to restart your computer. This will dump and files that are held temporarily.

The add or remove programs utility is very useful, but not all of the programs are listed up front. Programs that come pre-installed on your computer and the Windows operating system can also be uninstalled. For instance, Outlook Express is a default e-mail program that comes with the Windows XP operating system. If you do not use this e-mail program you can uninstall it. Click “add or remove windows components” found in the add or remove programs utility and simply follow the instructions.

Defragment:

Many offices contain a large number of files and programs that are valuable and cannot be thrown away. In fact, they may contain files that are not even used, but still have to be retained for some reason. Although these files must remain in the office, they need to be organized. This is why we create file folders that hold groups of files that are related. Than we store them in cabinets that are arranged in alphabetic order.

In a computer, the files that are saved are placed on the hard drive. However, they are placed according to the time that they were saved. So, if you open a word document and save the file as “file A” and than open another document and save it as “file B”, you have a “file A” placed next to “file B.” This is fine, but if you open “file A” later on and save it again, than the added information is saved next to “file B.”

When files are broken up this way it is referred to as a fragmented file. This means that the computer must find the first part of the file and then find the second part of the file to open that one word document. This can make your computer run slower. However, Windows has created a utility that is meant to rearrange files so that they are no longer fragmented but sit right next to each other.

You can run the disk defragmenter by selecting “all programs” under the start button. Next, select “accessories” and “system tools” and you will see “disk defragmenter.” In fact, this is also an alternative way to select the disk cleanup mentioned earlier. Before starting the defragmenter you can analyze your hard drive to see if Windows recommends performing the defragmenter. It will either say that you should or should not defragment at this time.

If you need to defragment your computer, simply hit the defragment button. It may take your computer a while to finish this task depending on the speed of your computer and the amount of defragmented files. It could take from about 15-30 minutes or more. However, you can still use the computer while the disk defragmenter is working.

Careers In Blogging

Many freelance writers are beginning to find blogging is one of the newest career opportunities available to them. Blogging is essentially a series of postings on a particular subject which are listed in reverse chronological order. These blogs may be about a variety of different subjects and may be personal, political, informative, humorous or any other category desired by the blogger. However, the key to a successful blog is a blog which pertains to a subject which appeals to a wide audience. Additionally the blog should be updated regularly and should provide useful content to the readers of the blog. This article will provide some information on finding career opportunities in blogging, will discuss the benefits of this type of career and will provide information on how writers can manage a blog successfully.

Finding Blogging Career Opportunities

Although blogging career opportunities are becoming increasingly popular, many writers are not aware of how to find these wonderful opportunities. These career opportunities may be offered as ghost writing positions or as positions offering a byline to the writer and finding these blogging opportunities is often very similar to finding any other career opportunities for writers. Companies seeking a blogger may post the job opening in the same manner in which they would post other openings with the company such as accounting positions or administrative positions. Therefore, writers interested in a position as a blogger should utilize the same job search websites they rely on to find other career opportunities.

Bloggers may also wish to visit career websites and message boards which focus exclusively on careers in blogging. The ProBlogger.net website is just one example of a website dedicated exclusively to putting bloggers in connection with those who are interested in hiring a writer for a particular blog. Interested bloggers should also consider joining message boards for those who blog for a living. This can be beneficial because here bloggers are likely to share information regarding the companies for which they work as well as any information they have about companies who are currently looking to hire bloggers.

The Benefits of a Career in Blogging

There are many benefits to pursuing a career in blogging. Perhaps one of the most alluring benefits to a career in blogging is the work can typically be done as a telecommute position. This is because as long as the blogger has access to the software necessary to write and upload a blog, there is no need for the blogger to perform the work from a specific location. This means the blogger can reside virtually anywhere in the world and can likely perform the necessary work from his own home. However, not all blogging positions are telecommute positions. Some companies may require bloggers to perform the work onsite as a matter of personal preference.

Another benefit to a career in blogging is the ability to accomplish work at a pace which his convenient to the blogger. The blogger may be required to upload a new post to the blog according to a regular schedule but the actually writing of the posts can be accomplished when it is convenient for the blogger. Many blogging software packages enable the blogger to set a specific time for a specific post to be uploaded. This allows the blogger to write several posts at a time and have them publish according to a pre-determined schedule.

Finding Time to Blog

One of the problems which many bloggers face is finding the time to blog. This is especially difficult if the blogger maintains several blogs or if the blogger maintains a current events blog in which posts must be timely in order to be relevant and of interest to the readers. Writing blog posts in batches and scheduling them to publish as needed is one way to deal with managing several blogs. However, writers of blogs related to current events must take special care to budget their time wisely to ensure they are publishing topical blog posts. One way this can be accomplished is by setting aside time daily to reading current events to derive inspiration and then scheduling time after that to write and publish the blog. For example a blogger with a current events blog might choose to review the previous day’s news the first thing in the morning to ensure they are reviewing all of the relevant news from the previous day before writing the blog post.

Tips For A Healthy Clear Complexion

For many women, visiting the skin care aisle at the drugstore can be as intimidating as ordering from all the complicated hot beverages on offer at the trendy local coffee shop. From blemish control to exfoliating to deep cleansing, products today offer an often dizzying range of ingredients and benefits claims. However, finding a targeted skin care solution that’s right for you doesn’t have to be difficult-in fact, with the right guidance, it can be a whole lot simpler than ordering a venti, chai, decaf, vanilla skim latte with extra foam.

Celebrity makeup artist Tasha Reiko Brown shares knowledge on how to best tackle common skin care concerns, with some helpful tips on choosing the right products:

Problem: Do I need to exfoliate? It seems harsh.

Solution: One of the best ways to cleanse is by exfoliating. It stimulates the skin as you cleanse, giving your face a nice and radiant glow. Try cream-based cleansers with skin-smoothing microbeads that gently exfoliate to help reveal fresh, polished skin. For best results, make little circles with fingertips in a clockwise motion. Pay extra attention to the thicker, oily areas of your face to achieve an all-over glow.

Problem: I don’t have much time to tend for my skin.

Solution: For the woman who is looking for an effective and efficient skin care solution, deep cleansing can be as basic and satisfying as pouring a simple cup of joe. Try the Noxzema Original Cleansing Cream. A tried-and-true classic, it dissolves oil while conditioning skin, without overdrying, leaving skin feeling clean, soft and smooth in one easy step. Best of all, you can feel its signature eucalyptus-infused formula working as it deep cleans. And this invigorating beauty staple comes in Original and Plus Moisturizers.

Problem: I can never seem to beat blemishes.

Solution: The key to not only beating but also preventing blemishes is to use products that deep clean but are also gentle enough to use on a daily basis. Always look for products that contain salicylic acid, which is a proven ingredient to fight acne blemishes and breakouts. Salicylic acid can be found in toners, cleansers and cleansing pads, so you can pick and choose the best combination for your lifestyle.

Problem: Traveling interrupts my beauty regimen.

Solution: No matter how busy you are, never skimp out on facial cleansing in your daily beauty routine. Dirty skin looks dull and sallow, and it’s more prone to breakouts. Try products that are de- signed for the girl on the go, such as premoistened cleansing cloths that will quickly remove dirt, oil and makeup for an efficient deep clean.

Using these simple tips to demystify your most common skin care problems, your perfect skin solution should become clear.

6 Steps To Super Sleek Stylish Hair

Whether you want to look great for a party and have all afternoon to get ready, or just want to smarten up before a meeting, there are things to do to get your hair looking great and give your confidence a real boost.

Super Hair Tip Number 1:

Shampoo properly. By this, I mean that you should invest in a top quality salon shampoo that matches your hair type, if you have coloured hair, make sure that the formulation of your shampoo is suitable, likewise if your hair is thin, greasy, blonde, or brunette, talk to your stylist, and get them to advise you on what they think is best. Too many people simply pick something off the supermarket shelf and home for the best, when what they really need is a shampoo that suits them.

Super Hair Tip Number 2:

Condition deeply. Hair conditioners have a formulation that will add body and shine to your hair. You know how uncomfortable and scratchy clothes are if you don’t use a fabric conditioner, well hair is the same. Also, a good conditioner will help to keep your hair static free, which will reduce frizziness even more. Massage the conditioner from root to tip and leave it to work its magic and make your hair look really healthy and shiny before rinsing it thoroughly.

Super Hair Tip Number 3:

Dry your hair well. Modern hair dryers will not harm your hair as much as they used to, but if you are going to use a blow dryer to get your hair dry quickly, make sure you keep it moving over your hair and dry it evenly to avoid overheating. If you have the time, use the dryer on a cool setting to avoid damage.

Super Hair Tip Number 4:

Use a good Serum. There are a huge variety of great products around that are designed to smooth your hair. Most salons will be able to point you in the direction of a serum such as Frizz-ease that will help to keep your hair looking great. Generally hair serums work in three ways, by relaxing the hair, smoothing it, and reducing the potential for it to attract the static electricity that will cause it to frizz up.

Super Hair Tip Number 5:

Use good quality hair straighteners. Most people find that the cheaper hair straighteners do not do a very good job. You might find that they do not get hot enough to iron out the kinks properly on a single pass, and are not slippery enough to allow your hair to pass through smoothly. Opt for ceramic or glass heating plates, and make sure that there is an adjustable temperature. GHD straighteners are the one of the most popular brands around and ae commonly used in salons all around the world. Their plates get hot fast, and are extra smooth to make styling your hair easy, all of which makes them a real favourite in salons around the world. Ceramic plates will help discharge the static electricity from your hair too, and leave it looking straight for longer.

Super Hair Tip Number 6:

Eat well. Your hair is nourished by what you eat and drink, and will never look good if you don’t eat a balanced diet with lots of vitamins and minerals. Hair is mostly made of protein, so make sure your diet includes plenty. Drink water too, as this will flush impurities out of your body and keep you healthy.

Types Of Teeth Whitening

Whiter teeth are a staple in the health and beauty industry. Never would you see a model or celebrity with yellow or stained teeth. Let’s face it, whiter teeth brings confidence. There are several ways for the average person to obtain a whiter and brighter smile, here are the most popular.

Dentist Whitening

We will start out at the priciest end of the spectrum with professional whitening in dental office. Most dentists use a Carbamide Peroxide in the form of a gel and provide customized dental trays molded by plaster casts of your teeth. These trays reduce the risk of whitening lines due to the fact they are made just for you. In contrast, most at-home-kits provide the same Carbamide Peroxide, just not the form fitting tray. Dentists charge up to $600 for this treatment, mainly to cover time and office costs.

At Home Whitening Gels

For a much cheaper price, we are able to obtain whiter teeth in the comfort of our own home by using at-home-kits. Most of these kits contain the same strength Carbamide Peroxide formula as your dentist or possibly a more powerful formula. Another benefit of at home whitening is the price. You’re not paying a dentist or his employees, so you will find yourself paying hundreds less than you would at a dental office. Some quality kits can go as low as $39! The only real downside of an at home kit is the quality of the dental tray as it’s typically a boil and bite mouthpiece. You may find these a little less comfortable than their dentistry counterpart.

Whitening Strips

The results from whitening strips are usually less than desired. Major brands and off-brands have been known to disappoint, showing a mild effect over the course of a month. The problem is that most pharmaceutical backed companies are looking for a way to make a reoccurring profit from it’s consumers. Thus keeping a weaker product on the shelves keep you coming back until desired results are acquired. In some cases this could be months or years.

Whitening Toothpastes

Whitening toothpastes seem to have little or no effectiveness. I myself recently tested a popular toothpaste brand, known for it’s supposed whitening power. I realized that at most, one line of past could only contain a mild active ingredient and you would have to brush your teeth for an hour for any noticeable result over a period of a month. Whitening toothpastes seem to be a marketing ploy that sells more from us being so eager for improvement.

In conclusion, the real contenders here are Dental and At home Whitening Kits. They will provide you with your desired results in the shortest amount of time. Saying that, at home whitening kits allow you to save hundreds of dollars and the peace and quiet of your own home… and no eerie dentist offices.

The Ultimate Facial Sauna

One of the great benefits of sauna and steam baths are the toning effects on the skin. They leave the skin soft, supple and glowing – in short, beautiful. Regular users of sauna and steam baths have an appealing healthy glow about them that adds to their attractiveness.

The reason that sauna and steam are so good for the skin is the deep cleaning action caused by heavy perspiration. The pores open wide and all the accumulated dirt can be easily washed out.

The best benefits for skin toning come from full body sauna, but for those looking for a quick fix-up to their complexion can get similar results from facial sauna systems. These ‘mini-saunas’ are designed to apply steam to the face for the same deep cleaning action as a full sauna or steam bath.

How They Work

A facial sauna has an electric heating element on the bottom of the unit. It heats the water (which is held in a small reservoir) to the boiling point, causing the steam to rise. The small size of the reservoir ensures that steam is quickly produced.

An ergonomically designed mask is placed over the reservoir to capture and funnel the steam to your face. You can control the amount of steam that your face is exposed to by the distance of the mask to your face.

Bringing your face into direct contact with the mask gives the maximum deep cleaning action, but this position should only be used for a few moments at a time. After about 10 seconds, raise your head to allow cooler air to be mixed with steam. Repeat this cycle as many times as needed.

Facial saunas are not only for deep cleansing the skin; they are also useful for unclogging stuffed sinuses. Anyone with a simple cold or a more serious condition like bronchitis, sinusitis, asthma and hay fever can use the facial sauna as an inhaler or vaporizer.

Some facial saunas have a separate inhaler attachment. Instead of fitting over the entire face, the inhaler attachment fits over the nose and mouth. Simply breathe in the steam to provide almost instant relief from sinus pain.

Operating Tips

Most facial saunas have a very small reservoir so that the water can heat up fast. The downside of this is that the water evaporates quickly, so if you wish to use the sauna for an extended session, you should keep a tall glass of water by your side. This way, you can quickly refill the reservoir when it goes dry.

The small reservoir, unfortunately, also means that the facial sauna cannot be used as an overnight vaporizer. If your sinuses are keeping you awake at night, you would be better off with a traditional vaporizer that provides steam for several hours.

Steam is great for deep cleaning the skin, but for an additional beauty treatment you can add special cleaners such as tea tree oil to the water. Just a few drops of this oil will give your skin an even brighter glow and leave it feeling fresh and supple.

Facial saunas are relatively inexpensive — usually less than $60. For this price, almost everybody can enjoy the deep cleaning action and the special ‘glowing’ skin that marks regular sauna users apart from the crowd.