There is a wave of body positivity messages rising right now and we are all LIVING for it! Seriously, it is so amazing to see women of all sizes, colours, different visages and sexual orientations just coming together and owning their awesome selves. Although, woman-to-woman, I know many of us have teeny tiny insecurities that somehow still make us rethink certain items of clothing, or maybe just maybe make us do a double take in the mirror. I am a little insecure about my arms, and while I do wear short sleeved and sleeveless clothing, I will still think twice before I do, especially when I am having a bloated day. I will also glance at the mirror a little more than I should to make sure it looks okay. Well, that’s about to change for all of us today. Here are a few body issues that somehow we all face at some point, and there is really nothing about these that should stop you in your tracks!
1. Dark Elbows And Knees
All of us at some point or the other feel like we shouldn’t wear that short dress just because we have dark knees. You really shouldn’t be worrying about something that has such a simple solution! Here’s what you can do. Ideally, you need a 3-part process to deal with this fully. First, use a natural bleaching agent like lime juice and massage that into the dark areas for 10 minutes and then rinse. This dries your skin out which would definitely make it more prone to getting affected by pollution and dirt, so make sure you moisturise these areas and to prevent further sun damage, give them a daily dose of SPF. A few weeks into this regime and I am sure this won’t be a concern.
2. Dark Underarms
We’re not sure why everyone has made such a fuss about this. It’s such a natural thing to happen, but thanks to photoshop, we’ve begun to think, this is actually a problem. Nothing should stop you from raising your arms up and wearing your crown. Dark underarms are seriously more common than you think, and contrary to popular belief, they are not caused by hair removal creams or shaving. Dark underarms are a result of repeated friction and less exposure to the sun. If they bother you that much, follow the 3-step process and you’ll be sorted.
3. Cellulite
It’s a natural occurrence friends, and it’s extremely common for women to have cellulite regardless of age and weight. Don’t let that stop you from rocking a pair of hot shorts or your favourite bikini! Cellulite is basically a layer of fat between your skin and muscle that gets squished by bands of collagen forming a dimple like appearance, usually on your thighs. I know you won’t believe me when I say it, but being overweight isn’t a direct ticket to cellulite on thighs, even though the extra weight might make their appearance more prominent. So, of course, there are ways in which you can soften their appearance. Topical creams and exfoliants help take care of the extra dry layer of skin reducing the dimpled appearance. Sunscreen needs to start becoming an important part of your routine even if your thighs are going to be covered through the day. And finally be careful about your nutrition and make sure you work out regularly while focussing on toning your lower body.
4. Unwanted Hair
Common in PCOS and PCOD patients, this problem is genuinely not something you should be embarrassed about. While the appearance might be something that might concern you, this isn’t in your hands. It is not something that you are causing and you need to keep reminding yourself that. Hair removal treatments and procedures will work on a cosmetic level, but more importantly, consult your gynaecologist and GP so they can keep a track of how your hormone and nutrition levels are impacting your health.
5. Acne Scars
I really don’t need to tell you how common this one is. I know you feel a little low and can’t help but compare your visage with someone who has super clear skin. You sometimes feel like nobody is noticing anything but those scars. But that is absolutely not true. Believe me, when I say this, most people you meet don’t even notice those scars, they notice you and your fantastic smile. They will remember you because of who you are, how you treat them and not the scars on your skin. Acne scars take a while to heal, you can use medicated creams or choose cosmetic treatments, but either way, you need to be patient. Stop piling your skin with make-up every time you leave the house, and let your skin breathe and heal. You don’t need to hide behind a layer of make-up, you’re gorgeous just the way you are!
By writing this, I am not taking a holier than thou route where I am just telling you guys to get over your insecurities. I know what they do to a person, and I KNOW it’s easier said than done. But we are so much more than these small issues, YOU are so much more than this!
Own it all queen, and let NOTHING dull your sparkle!
