Do This Before That

What you should be doing before getting a pedi, going in a car, applying perfume, eating cheese, swimming and turning down a second date

From the LifeMinute.TV Team

September 12, 2023

Activities such as applying perfume or getting a pedicure feel straightforward, but you may not be taking full advantage of the activity or realizing the impact on your health. Read on for tips to get the most out of these and other experiences.

Before a Pedicure…
Avoid waxing or shaving your legs at least 24 hours before an appointment. Nicks and cuts can be an entry point for germs and put you at risk for an infection.

Before Driving or Riding in a Car
The sun’s UVA radiation (associated with skin aging and cancer) can penetrate glass windows. In the US, melanoma and nonmelanoma skin cancers are more common on the left side of the body since drivers are most directly exposed through a window on their left side. UVB radiation doesn’t penetrate as deeply as UVA but is responsible for sunburn and can lead to skin cancer. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher before that drive or ride. Wearing long sleeves and sunglasses can also help reduce your risk of skin cancer.

Before Applying Perfume…
Make sure you do it correctly. The best way is to spray it into the air and walk into it. If you’re using an oil, make sure you’re also using a carrier oil, or that your skin is moisturized with an unscented moisturizer. The body is more susceptible to fragrance when it isn’t dry. You can also try a little petroleum jelly on pulse points beforehand. Dab (avoid rubbing because that damages the notes of the fragrance) on the naturally warm pulse points, such as the back of the knees, collarbone, inner elbows, and sides of the neck. The heat should also help activate and amplify the fragrance.

Before Eating Cheese…
Let it cool to room temperature before serving. When cheese is cold, the fat molecules contract, making it difficult for your tastebuds to decipher the flavor. Tempered cheeses become creamier and softer in texture, allowing tastebuds access to the full range of the flavors.

Before Swimming…
Wet your hair with fresh water, wet hair is less absorbent than dry and that means less absorption of chlorine and salt. For added protection, wet and apply conditioner then cover your mane with a swimming cap. Once out of the pool, rinse your hair with clean water.

Before Turning Down a Second Date…
Our minds typically already have a checklist of likes and dislikes, fine-tuned through years of dating. As we’re checking off that list, we may not allow our bodies to experience a connection. Our brain can shut off too soon before the body can react. So maybe give that second date a chance before you turn it down.