Look into WhiteSands Rehab Center

May 18, 2018 by Leave a Comment

5 Things To Know About Anabolic Steroid Abuse

A very common form of drug addiction is the excessive use of anabolic steroids. The steroids are simply variations of testosterone, the male sex hormone. Steroids can either be injected into the body muscles or they can be taken orally. They are mostly used by athletes and bodybuilders and usually starts as a way to build up the muscles and strength of the body. However, some users tend to go overboard with its use and eventually become addicted to it. Below, we look at five things you should know about anabolic steroid abuse.

  1. Effect on The Brain

Anabolic steroids have a very different effect on the brain when compared to other forms of drugs. While other drugs usually trigger increased dopamine production in the brain that causes the ‘high’, steroids do not directly increase the dopamine in the brain. Instead, the steroids tend to affect the brain chemicals and pathways related to dopamine when it is used for a long period of time. And when using other drugs or medications that directly affect dopamine, the user might feel a ‘high’. As such, steroids create an indirect dopamine-induced ‘high’ in contrast to other types of drugs.

  1. Signs Of Steroid Abuse

People who abuse steroids usually gain lean muscle rapidly, typically within a 10 week period. If your loved one works out very hard on a daily basis and you see numerous syringes in their room, then that can be a sign of steroid abuse. You should check out their arms to see whether it has any holes that look inflamed and reddish. If they are using steroid creams, then you will start smelling a strange odor from them. And if they are taking the steroids in the form of pills, you should see numerous pill packets in the trash. In case the steroid use gets out of control, you must seriously look into WhiteSands drug rehab center and consider admitting your loved one for recovery.

  1. Short-Term And Long-Term Effects

Abusing steroids has several short-term and long-term effects. In the short-term, the person will likely start feeling extremely paranoid and unreasonable with their demands. They will start having delusions about many things. Extreme mood swings are also very likely with the possibility of violence. In the long-term, the person will start seeing their hands and feet swell abnormally. Acne will also be out of control. The heart may become enlarged and you will suffer from high blood pressure. The kidneys and liver might start failing. There is also a high chance of stroke.

There will also be differences in how steroid abuse affects men and women. In men, the testicles will start to shrink and the sperm count will go way down. The risk of prostate cancer will also be very high. Breasts would develop abnormally and the person will become bald.  In women, there will be an excessive growth of hair all over the body including the face. The menstrual cycle will be disturbed. They might also suffer from baldness just like men do. Plus, the clitoris will also be enlarged. If steroid use starts from teenage, then the person’s growth will be negatively affected. In fact, they might end up with a stunted height.

  1. Withdrawal Symptoms

When a person understands the negative consequences of steroid abuse and starts limiting its intake, there can be serious withdrawal issues. For one, the person will be vulnerable to depression and other such conditions. The libido is likely to be very low which can affect romantic relationships. There will be frequent headaches and the person will have a difficult time concentrating on anything for a long period. They will be extremely anxious and will be worried about anything that does not go their way. In addition, sleeping will also be difficult.  Given such negative withdrawal effects, it is advisable that you only reduce the steroid intake gradually in small quantities rather than cutting down the intake by a large amount all of a sudden. Plus, it is also recommended that you approach a good rehab center for a proper recovery.

  1. Comorbid Disorders

Steroid abuse can also trigger other disorders. Such people can be susceptible to mental illnesses once steroid use goes out of hand and they become totally dependent on it. Extreme steroid users can start developing problems with differentiating between reality and fantasy. Those who have reached this stage usually require intense psychological counseling that can get them back to a balanced mental state. In addition, behavioral therapies can also be very effective at instilling a logical way of looking at things rather than judging something based on irrationality.

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Tech To Bring Music to Your Ears and Light Up Your Life

May 18, 2018 by Leave a Comment

As we spend more time outdoors, we look for ways to bring some creature comforts with us.  Check out some of the gear that makes outside a little more modern.

Do you love a good run? Maybe hike, kayak, or even just some time in the gym. Finding good earphones that can deal with sweat is not always the easiest task, but most of us like to bring music (or some form of audio) with us for our workouts. The new PaMu TWS wireless earphones are easy to wear, truly have no wires (really, Pinocchio) until you have to charge them, of course, and are sweat-proof and water resistant. They have some must have features, including Hi-Fi Sound, Auto-connects,Touch Control, Auto Pairing that lets you make calls and listen to music while your phone is in your pocket (or beyond), an In-Ear Mic, they come with a portable Charging Pod that neatly fits your buds and doubles as a travel case, and more. They are reasonably comfortable for ear buds. To me, while wearing them, they reminded me of a Dr. Who episode of Cybermen- that’s how it all started. Giant ear buds, then you become a Robot working for your new alien overlords. Ah, maybe not- but it makes me laugh. You can grab yours before they even hit shelves on indiegogo.

Always on the go?  AdventureJumpStart is a great option for those of us who are constantly on the move- it can not only recharge your tablets and smartphones, but it also has the ability to jump start most cars, trucks, boats and ATVS. Really. And? It’s small. Best. Gift. Ever.

It comes with everything you need- the charger, recharge cable, Detachable Jumper Cables, and Quick Start Guide. It has the smallest and lightest powerbank with the highest lever of safety, as well as keeping it’s battery life from one charge up to one full year if not used. It also charges incredibly quickly, which we all know is a huge plus. That’s pretty amazing stuff right there- great for people to have on hand for a roadside emergency.  This is one you will want to have for innumerable reasons. Pick yours up for $100 at https://mycharge.com/collections/adventure-series/products/adventurejumpstart

If you need a smaller charger, one for your pocket, there is always the Flip 30 Recharger. This mini charger is about the size of a pack of gum, but can charge your phone up to three times per full charge of it’s own (or a tablet once) making it an easy way to keep your electronics ready to go while you are on the go.  It fits easily in most purses or pockets. Several color options are available, this rechargers costs $49.95 athttps://www.goalzero.com/shop/flip-family/flip-30-recharger/ .

Like to camp? Or maybe you just hate being caught in the dark. The Lighthouse Micro Flash is perfect to keep in the car, a drawer, or in your purse for emergencies. No need for batteries, it is rechargable by USB and has a dimmable lantern as well as a built-in 120-lumen flashlight. If on it’s lowest setting, it can run for up to 170 hours. It is tiny, about the size of a finger, and weighs just over 2 ounces but is not light on power. Get yours for $24.99 at https://www.goalzero.com/shop/lanterns/lighthouse-micro-flash-lantern/ .

Are you an aspiring musician and like to make your own music or be creative with your beats? Then this Beat Machine might be just what you’re looking for and the perfect fit for you. It’s not only easy to use but it’s also a machine that truly sounds human. It’s not only great to use if you play the guitar but you can give it a try with many other musical instruments as well. It’s a piece of tech that’s guaranteed to bring new and fresh music to your ears and it will certainly light up your life.

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Who Can Benefit From Laser Resurfacing?

May 15, 2018 by Leave a Comment

Undeniably, most people work hard towards keeping their skin soft, smooth, and young. Sunscreens, moisturizers, and other cosmetic products are the more popular utilities that we use. Skin care regimens that focus on exfoliating, cleansing, and hydrating the face and neck are greatly encouraged. As much as these skin care efforts help fight effects of being exposed to the elements and aging, at times they are just not enough. The texture, color, and quality of your skin can be compromised by our daily lifestyle habits such as drinking and smoking which take their toll over time.

 

Whether you have been dutifully taking care of your skin or not, being perpetually exposed to the sun’s rays, and other elements might cause your skin to develop wrinkles in addition to appearing dried out. Laser resurfacing treatments are an excellent option towards rejuvenating your skin, improving minor facial flaws, and restoring a youthful, healthy complexion.

 

What is Laser Skin Resurfacing?

 

Also referred to as laser vaporization, lasabration, or laser peel, it is a cosmetic procedure that helps to reduce the effects of sunlight exposure, aging, some facial skin conditions, and rejuvenate the skin. Additionally, laser skin treatments are convenient, practical, and safe while being relatively cost-friendly as compared to other skin treatment options. The latest laser resurfacing procedures offer your cosmetic surgeon an enhanced level of control which allows extreme precision, particularly when treating delicate and sensitive areas.

 

Areas that Laser Skin Resurfacing Improves

 

  • Scars from chickenpox or acne
  • Wrinkles and fine lines under or around your forehead, eyes, and mouth
  • Sun-damaged and aged skin
  • Non-responsive areas after a facelift
  • Warts
  • Liver spots
  • Enlarged oil glands on the nose
  • Birthmarks

 

How Laser Skin Resurfacing Works

 

The technique uses high-frequency beams of light known as lasers. The cosmetic surgeon directs the short, concentrated beams in pulses at the affected area. They remove damaged, unwanted skin precisely layer by layer. During the procedure, the laser beam dissolves molecular bonds between the cells of the damaged skin one layer at a time until a smooth, and more uniform skin is realized. While the laser is removing your outer skin layer (epidermis), it is also simultaneously heating up your underlying layer (dermis). The action stimulates the growth of new collagen fibers (proteins responsible for your skin’s firmness and elasticity). Thus, the treated area heals to a new skin which is firmer and smoother. Laser resurfacing can also be called laser rejuvenation due to its anti-aging rewards.

 

The targeted approach employed by laser resurfacing implies that there will be little to none hypopigmentation issues (lightening of the skin) when undergoing treatment for acne or scar removal.

 

Who Stands to Benefit from Laser Resurfacing?

 

For some people, laser resurfacing treatments perform an excellent task at removing the appearance of wrinkles and lines, irregular skin pigmentation, and scars. However, individuals with some specific skin tones, skin types, and medical disorders might be prone to developing unpleasant side effects. As such, in some cases, laser treatments may, in fact, worsen a person’s facial appearance. It is, therefore, a good rule to consult your dermatologist before seeking laser skin resurfacing treatments.

 

Ideally, the person who benefits most from laser surgery is one who has a non-oily and elastic skin which is not at risk of scarring after a minor injury. Additionally, it is recommended that this procedure is done only to individuals who are free from any medical considerations, including existing health conditions and prescription medication that might cause unwarranted risks during treatment or when recovering. Nevertheless, here are some characteristics of the ideal laser resurfacing treatment candidate:

 

  1. Lighter skin tone

 

The CO2 lasers used traditionally had the tendency of creating problems for darker-skinned people. The CO2 typically works by removing all the color from the skin thus there is no guarantee that a dark-skinned person’s skin will even out completely after the treatment. This might result in discoloration. Even though fair-skinned individuals may also be susceptible to discoloration, people with darker skin tones are at a higher risk. You, therefore, need to let your doctor assess your risk level based on your skin tone.

 

  1. Your problem spots are not too deep

 

Whether you are looking to clear acne scarring, wrinkles, dark spots, or warts, laser resurfacing is only effective if these issues are near the skin’s surface. Lasers usually work on the upper skin layers thus deep scars or discoloration might be beyond the lasers’ reach.

 

  1. The problem is on your face

 

Lasers are typically used only on the face because it has a healthy amount of sebaceous glands. Other body parts may not contain enough of these glands, and you might likely get burnt.

 

  1. You don’t have a sagging skin

 

Laser skin resurfacing does indeed help to tighten the skin; but only to some extent. However, these techniques can do little to minimize a loose sagging skin. For a skin which is sagging in the jowls, your cosmetic surgeon might recommend a facelift to enhance your look.

 

  1. You are not prone to acne flare-ups

 

Laser resurfacing is quite effective at smoothing out acne scars. However, the treatment has been known to intensify acne flare-ups after the procedure. Hence, if you have an active acne condition, you might need to reconsider this treatment.

 

  1. You are not prone to cold sores

 

Laser skin resurfacing treatments have a history of making individuals more susceptible to cold sores immediately after the operation. If you are an individual that contracts cold sores regularly, your GP might prescribe antiviral medicine to use before your treatment, to assist in minimizing complications that may arise from the cold sore.

 

If you possess minor flaws in your skin that affect its quality, you can benefit a lot from laser skin resurfacing treatments. You do not have to live with wrinkles, spots, and scars. Rather, rejuvenate your skin for a youthful, healthy appearance.
If you are considering laser resurfacing in Wisconsin, talk to an experienced doctor or cosmetic surgeon about your particular needs and the options that are available for you. Laser skin resurfacing is a risky procedure and therefore needs to be done by a skilled plastic surgeon who will give you the best results while minimizing the risks. Dr. Joseph W. Rucker, Jr. is a renowned plastic surgeon board-certified by the American Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons. Dr. Rucker is located in Eau Claire, WI. Book your consultation now to find out if laser skin resurfacing is for you.

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Skin Is Too Thin for Rhinoplasty? These Techniques Are For You!

May 15, 2018 by Leave a Comment

If you have thin skin and require rhinoplasty done on your nose, you are likely to have the same issues as having thick skin. A special set of skills is the only way to achieve above par results. When you have had several nose surgeries, your skin is thin and a revision rhinoplasty will work with the thinner soft tissue. People of northern Europe are likely to have thin skin.

 

When a patient requires an enlarged tip cartilage or a bump and has thin skin, a two-fold procedure will be done. This involves creating smoothing edges on the nasal bridge and tip at the end of the nose surgery, to reduce the visibility of imperfections once the swelling fades.

 

To camouflage minor irregularities, the surgeon places soft tissue at the nasal bridge or tip to thicken the skin. The soft tissue can be from the ear, or Alloderm which is an available collagen sheet obtained from cadavers, and approved by the FDA. Alloderm has been used for cosmetic and reconstructive surgery, and for over 20 years as a skin replacement for burn patients.

 

With the different rhinoplasty techniques available there are different forms of challenges that affect each surgery. When you decide to get a surgeon to work on your thin skin, ensure that you find one who has experience in this field or they are likely to make the situation worse than it already is.

 

There are advantages and disadvantages of having thin skin when it comes to rhinoplasty, which is the same case as patients with thick skin. An advantage is having less swelling when you are healing and it will heal fast, and also the incisions are likely not to form scars.

 

Challenges with thin skin

 

The underlying imperfections that are as a result of nasal framework or any other rhinoplasty surgery are going to be noticeable. This is not the case with thick skinned patients who can easily conceal their imperfections.

 

Thin skin tightens or at times shrinks after any surgical procedure is done on the skin. Shrinking skin makes it possible for deformities and distortions to occur because the pressure is placed on the skeletal framework.

 

Shaping a flawless and smooth underlying nasal framework is difficult because imperfections will form, and become easily visible.

 

Techniques to deal with Thin Skin Challenges

 

The first method is a 3D high definition telescope or camera that can help to visualize the bump and this will help to create smooth edges. Your surgeon can also do traditional cosmetic surgery which involves inspecting the bump from a distance without magnifying it.

 

The surgeon can decide to use a specialized 3D camera and telescopes that magnify the inside together with the traditional methods. This technique allows your surgeon to sculpt the bridge of your nose better.

 

The second method is using specialized graft and cartilage sculpting that uses filing or sanding instruments that will result in a smoother result, than when you use the normal surgical knife. The surgical knife tends to achieve angled edges instead of round edges.

 

Your experienced surgeon can decide not to divide the tip-cartilage through a procedure called vertical dome division. On thin skin patients, it will result in noticeable cartilage edges over time. The tip cartilages can be trimmed without dividing them completely. It is common for patients who have had vertical dome division done to have their edges sharp, and unnatural.

 

Rhinoplasty on Thin Skin results in Irregularities

 

If you have irregularities after surgery, it is possible to have revision rhinoplasty to smooth out the visible edges by placing soft tissue between the cartilage and bone framework and thin skin of the nose to give you a softer and smooth look. It is best to wait for one year before you go ahead and seek revision rhinoplasty. This way it will allow the swelling to completely dissipate.

 

Pros and Cons between Temporalis fascia (soft tissue from above the ear) and Alloderm to thicken skin in nose surgery.

 

With the Temporalis fascia being the patient’s own tissue, infection is not likely to occur, but a second surgery will be done to obtain the tissue from above the ear. The pro is that it will heal quickly.

 

Alloderm has been used for many years with minimal infections. Absorption rate depends on the patient, as for some it won’t absorb as fast as others. The pro is that there is no second surgery required because it is easily available.

 

Risks of Revision Rhinoplasty

 

Thin skin patients can go and have a revised rhinoplasty surgery to reduce the irregularities they have, but there are some risks that are going to occur.

 

Some of them include infection, bleeding, scarring, asymmetries. These risks are not frequent, but the surgeon needs to talk to the patient about the possibilities of them occurring, this way the patient is prepared.

 

If the benefits outweigh the risks, the revision rhinoplasty can be carried out, but if the risks such as deformity, outweigh the benefits, there’s no need to put the patient through a second surgery.

 

There are plenty of challenges that arise when doing rhinoplasty, but patients with thinner skin have extra challenges, and risks that accompany them. It is best to work with a surgeon who is going to make sure that the end result is not going to require you have another surgery, but you end up having a softer look and be pretty.

 

Conclusion

 

If you want to have your revision rhinoplasty surgery done by Dr. Andrew Frankel, from Rhinoplasty Revisions, you can contact his office at 310.552.2173 to book an appointment. Dr.Frankel has performed several rhinoplasty surgeries on various patients for many years, and this has given him the skills to adapt to each surgery depending on the patient’s needs. Dr.Frankel is among the best rhinoplasty doctors in Los Angeles.

 

Dr. Frankel is a facial plastic surgeon who will discuss with you all the benefits and risks you are likely to encounter once the surgery is scheduled.

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Chemical Peels: Selecting The Right Peel Strength

May 15, 2018 by 1 Comment

 

Chemical peels are a lot like your favorite pair of shoes: They come in a variety of styles and prices. Some are durable and long-lasting, while others provide a quick pick-me-up for a special occasion. Regardless of what it does, it isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. Different strengths are used for different things.

 

There’s no doubt people love the quick results and smooth, blemish-free skin. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons report it was one of the top three non-invasive cosmetic procedures performed last year. From erasing sunspots to reducing wrinkles, these mini-miracles pack quite a punch at a very reasonable cost.

 

Peels are available in a wide range of formulas that can be customized to target specific problems. Before we dive into how strong of a peel you need, it’s important to talk about who is a good candidate for different levels of peeling. This largely comes down to your Fitzpatrick skin type.

 

Fitzpatrick Skin Types

 

A doctor at Harvard University invented the Fitzpatrick Scale in 1975. It’s still widely used today to gather important information about how the skin might react to certain procedures. It takes into account genetics and how the skin responds sun exposure. The factors are:

 

  • eye color;

 

  • hair color;

 

  • skin color;

 

  • reaction to the sun;

 

  • skin cancer risk;

 

  • hyperpigmentation risk;

 

  • and the tendency to scar.

 

At the lowest end of the spectrum are Type I people with blue eyes, blonde or red hair, pale skin and possibly freckles. They burn easily and don’t ever get a tan in the sun. The risk of skin cancer is very high for this group, but they usually have a lower risk of hyperpigmentation and scarring.

 

The scale advances as skin tone and hair color get darker. The ability to tan also goes up with each level. The risk for procedural side effects also increases beginning at type III, but isn’t considered elevated until type IV. The highest end of the scale is type VI, with black skin that doesn’t burn, dark eyes and black hair. This group has the highest risk of all for hyperpigmentation and scarring.

 

Higher Fitzpatrick skin types may be more limited in the strength of peel they can get. Hyperpigmentation causes spots of discoloration that can be difficult to reverse. Scars in this skin type can also be problematic.

 

Mild Chemical Peels

 

Alpha hydroxy and beta hydroxy acids make up the bulk of most mild chemical peels options. These formulas are gentler than other types. The beta hydroxy is usually salicylic acid. Alpha hydroxy includes glycolic, lactic, malic, citric and/or tartaric acid.

 

They work by removing the most superficial layer of skin, revealing the fresh skin underneath. It doesn’t take long to get one and there’s no downtime afterward. For this reason, you’ll often hear it referred to as a lunchtime peel. It’s usually safe for all Fitzpatrick skin types.

 

As a single application, it works best on milder problems or as part of a regular skin care routine. For better results, a series of peels can be done relatively close together. Doing five to eight in a row can stimulate collagen production and increase elasticity. Mild peels are good for:

 

  • very fine lines;

 

  • acne;

 

  • mild discolorations, such as sun spots;

 

  • large pores;

 

  • and uneven skin tone.

 

Medium Strength Chemical Peels

 

Even though this class of peel is considered medium strength, it can be very intensive. It’s perfect for Fitzpatrick skin types I, II, and III but may be fine for other types as well. Trichloroacetic Acid, or TCA, is a stronger type of acid used in this type of peel. It may be combined with Jessner’s solution, which is lactic acid, resorcinol, and salicylic acid.

 

It damages several layers of skin at once. The layers of skin will dry up and come off, revealing fresh, new skin underneath. It’s more durable than lunchtime peels because it triggers the body’s healing mechanisms to send more collagen to the area. It’s beneficial for

 

  • age or sun spots;

 

  • leathery, photodamaged skin;

 

  • moderate wrinkles;

 

  • and acne scars.

 

Medium depth chemical peels can be uncomfortable. You can ask for a topical numbing agent to be applied beforehand. This peel requires more dedication to following aftercare instructions. From start to finish, you can expect it to take an average of ten days for all of the old skin to come off. It will usually look the worst around day three to six.

 

Deep Chemical Peels

 

These peels are the strongest you can get and the results are impressive. The possible formula combinations include high concentrations of TCA or a Gordon-Baker phenol solution. It is offered for severely photodamaged skin and requires sedation.

 

Higher Fitzpatrick skin types are most likely not good candidates, as the risk of hyperpigmentation and scarring is significant. The process of applying the solutions can take well over an hour. Sometimes tape or bandaging is added. Deep peels can cause discomfort six to eight hours after it’s finished. Healing takes weeks, although collagen will continue being deposited in the skin for up to four months.

 

While deep chemical peels do take longer to heal and are more uncomfortable, they produce outstanding results for most people. It’s the longest lasting and most effective choice for deeper wrinkling, especially around the mouth and forehead.

 

How Strong Can You Go?
Overall, the determination of the strength of your chemical peel depends on several factors, including what you’re using the peel for and how much downtime you can live with. Dr. Frankel will take that information and factor in your skin type and level of photodamage to make a recommendation. Please visit Dr. Frankel’s website for more information.

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Guide To Water Leak Detection In Our Homes

May 15, 2018 by 1 Comment

 

Water is an essential part of everyday life. It is also something that most people take for granted.

Simply turn on the tap and there it is! But although you may not think about it, water is not free. Every drop of water you use will cost you money. IN fact, a leaking faucet will cost you between $60 and $100 per year!

If you have 2 or more leaks you can imagine how quickly this can add up!

Of course, when you have an obvious leak you simply call your local Sydney plumber and have the fault rectified. But what do you do if you think you have a leak but are not sure?

Signs Of A Leak

If you discover the warning signs you can stop a leak before it causes any significant damage or costs you an excessive amount of funds. It is worth noting that your insurance will not always cover a water leak.

  • Water Pressure drops – because the water is escaping somewhere it shouldn’t be.
  • Your water bill rises sharply – but your water usage has remained the same.
  • Damp patches – these maybe from a leaking roof but, depending on where they are located they can also be a result of leaking pipes.

Detecting The Leak

There are several ways in which you can confirm the leak and then track it down. This can be a time consuming process but you need to do it!

  • Shut Off Your Faucets

The first step is to locate your main water meter. Then you must shut all your faucets and make sure any appliance that uses water is turned off.

In theory you should be using no water. You can then look at the dial on your water meter. If it is turning then you’re using water. This means you have a leak somewhere!

  • Visual Inspection

The next step must be to verify the visible connections in your home. You need to check that every faucet is off and not dripping. Even the slightest drip can cause a movement in the water meter.

Ideally you should check the pipes joining your appliances to the water supply; they could be dripping at any spot!

You should also look at all the visible pipes you can find. Run your fingers gently along them, particularly at the joints to establish if they are wet or not.

Don’t forget to check the floor under any joins in your pipes. These can tell you there is a leak even if the pipe seems dry.

  • Turn Off Valves

If nothing is obviously wrong then you need to shut off every valve you can find in your home. You can then check the water meter again to see if it is still moving.

You should have a valve just before every faucet or appliance. If you turn all of these off and the meter is still moving then you know you have a fault in the pipe.

Unfortunately much of the pipes will be hidden and you may need specialist help to track and replace the faulty pipe.

If the meter doesn’t move then you can turn the valves on one at a time until it does; this will tell you the leak is at that valve or between it and the connected appliances.

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Quick Diamonds Guide for the Novice Buyer

May 11, 2018 by Leave a Comment

We all know that diamonds are a girl’s best friend. No matter if you are buying diamonds for yourself or for your loved one, it is still hard to choose the first time. All of these products are amazing, and it can be hard to select only one. Diamonds are also the first choice when it comes to the engagement ring. This is why you need to take a few things into consideration before you select the best piece of jewelry.

In this article we are going to show you how to choose your first diamond. If you want to find out more about different types of diamonds, you can also check out TheDiamondAuthority.org. There you will find a lot more information on these beautiful jewelries.

How to choose the perfect diamond- the 4Cs

Before you select the right diamond, you need to know more about the essential 4Cs. These 4 Cs come from cut, carat, color, and clarity. You need to take all of these into account before purchasing a diamond. Despite the fact that the grading report is important, all of these Cs deserve an analysis.

The Cut

Let’s start with the cut of the diamond. First of all, this is not the shape of the piece of jewelry, it is the combined aspect of the proportions and the finishing. The shape of the diamond is different, and it can be a heart diamond or a cushion diamond. Now, the cut is the most important aspect you should look at when you purchase a diamond.

The Carat Weight

When it comes to the cut, there is a GIA system which indicates the grade of the diamond. There are Poor, Fair, Good, Very Good, and Excellent. Always try to find the best cut grade in a diamond because this is the most important.

The carat weight of the diamond is another important thing to take into consideration. This actually show you the weight of the diamond. For instance, one carat equals 200 milligrams/ 100 points. When you purchase a 1 carat diamond it actually means that you select a 0.2 grams diamond. When you are searching for the perfect diamond, make sure that the carat weight is not too big for your hand.

The color

The third C is also important because it can affect the way the diamond reflects the light. For instance, there are a lot of colorful diamonds and it is much harder (and more expensive) to find a diamond without a color. Because they are colored (black, brown), they can negatively affect the light absorption which means that the diamond is not going to sparkle as much as a colorless diamond.

However, diamonds with rare colors like pink, orange, or blue are much more valuable than colorless diamonds. In this case, you need to select the color the suits you best or go for the classic colorless diamond. For an engagement ring, it is better to stick to the colorless diamonds because they have a better light absorption.

The clarity

Any diamond has some types of flaws like inclusions or blemishes. These make the clarity characteristics. As you might expect, the lesser amount of flaws the higher the clarity and the value of the gemstone. A flawless diamond (which can be pretty expensive) doesn’t have any internal or external flaws. There are also diamonds with the lowest clarity grade with have big, visible flaws.

When you decide to purchase a diamond, you need to find one with as fewer flaws as possible. Of course, you need to take into consideration your budget because the higher the level of clarity, the higher the price. You also need to know that a diamond with visible flaws and a low clarity grade has lower durability, brilliance, and transparency. This diamond buying guide contains information that will help you in deciding the right diamond to buy.

Other important details

While the 4Cs are the most important things to take into consideration, there are also other important details that you should look into. First of all, you should select the shape of the diamond. As we mentioned earlier, the shape is not the same as the cut of the diamond.

When it comes to the shape, you should know that the number of facets have an impact on the scintillation, the fire, and the brilliance of the stone. The more facets the better. Round-shaped diamonds, as well as oval or pear-shaped are the diamonds with the most facets. However, heart-shaped or princess-shaped diamonds have a special elegance.

Conclusion

These are just some of the most important things you should look into before you select the right diamond for you or for your loved one. Don’t forget to make a budget and stick to it. Also, remember to choose the shape and carat that best suit you.

 

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Tips to keep pet hair under control

May 11, 2018 by Leave a Comment

 

It is wonderful to have a pet in the home but pets require a lot of care and attention. When you bring home a pet, you need to commit yourself to their wellbeing. It also means dealing with fur and hair they leave around the house. It is a never-ending battle to keep the fur off the furniture, clothing, and floor. If you are looking for tips to keep the pet hair under control, you have come to the right place.

Tips to keep pet hair under control

 

  • Brush: You need to embrace your grooming responsibilities. Give your pet a quick brushing outdoors every day and save the time spent on vacuuming every week. With regular brushing, you will notice a reduction in the amount of fur inside your house.
  • Use washable slipcovers: You or any of your guests would not like to sit on a sofa covered with pet hair. Invest in furniture covers which are made for this purpose. Choose washable slipcovers which can be easily maintained. You can remove them when your guests visit and simply toss them in the laundry.
  • Use throw rugs: If you manage to place rugs strategically inside your home, you will be able to find a solution to this problem. The rugs will help prevent the fur from spreading it into the house. You can place the rug at the entrance of your house. Choose rugs that are easy to wash and maintain.
  • Keep them clean: Make it a point to wipe the feet of your pet after they have stepped outdoors. This ensures that the entire house remains clean.
  • Cover up the pet: This is something not many would like to do but covering your pet helps keep the house clean. You can dress up the pet in a cute t-shirt and keep the fur off.

 

 

You can never completely get rid of the pet fur inside your home. Take small steps every day and ensure that the pet is brushed outdoors and there is minimal fur in the home. You need to vacuum the space regularly with a quality vacuum cleaner in order to achieve higher results. Choose a pet hair vacuum that fits your needs and maintain a routine of cleaning the furniture, carpet, and floor. There are a number of options available in the market. The vacuum is easy to use and it carries multiple features. Compare the top vacuums available for you and make the right choice. You can also compare the prices of the products easily and ensure that you are investing in a vacuum that is sufficient for your needs. The quality vacuum will keep your floor and carpet pet hair free and reduce your stress. The vacuum only takes a few minutes to clean up the entire space. It is not necessary for you to use the vacuum every single day, you can set up a routine and vacuum the floor once every three days or a week.

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