February 2009 SUBURBAN ESSEX MAGAZINE 47

Dream Scents

Do you suffer from nightmares? While fear, anxiety, or depression may be to blame, a new study finds a simpler cause: a stinky

bedroom. Sweet scents like roses and lavender induce pleasant dreams, researchers found, while odors like rotten eggs create equally rotten dreams.

To nightmare-proof your bedroom, first air it out to dispel lingering odors. Then try a natural aromatherapy product, such as lavender pillow spritzes, chamomile body lotions, or diffusers with orange essential oils. (Citrus fragrances are just as effective as lavender at reducing stress.) Then it’s off to lily-scented dreamland you go!

Spare Tires Equal Spare Cash

Women with wide waists earn more bucks than those without, according to University of Utah anthropologist Elizabeth Cashdan, who says that the same hormones responsible for

the “apple” shape make women strong and competitive, and not easily unnerved. In 37 cultures she studied, women played a key role in family finances—and also sported waists at least as wide as their hips. The connection? The women all had high levels of testosterone—which boosts stamina and drive—and cortisol to help manage stress. Those hormones also create belly fat.

Cashdan’s conclusion? Apple-shaped women may not fit the Western ideal, but they’re in perfect shape to bring home the bacon.

Healthy Cosmetics

Can makeup be good for your skin? Health Magazine says it can, and lists its top picks:Lipstick—Cargo’s blu ray Lip Gloss. With

light-reflecting diffusers and hyaluronic acid, the gloss smoothes and plumps lips while softening wrinkles. Costs $29.

Mascara—Beauty Benefits’ Beyond Nourishing Mas-cara conditions and strengthens lashes with panthenol and soy protein. Costs $5.99.

Con cealer—Estée Lauder’s Resilience Lift Extreme Ultra Firming Concealer cov-ers circles and also boosts collagen, and firms and hydrates the skin. Costs $20.

Fou ndation—Lancôme’s Precise Match Skin Perfecting Makeup has vitamins to con-dition, glycerin to hydrate, and SPF to guard your skin. Costs $37. s

Sources: American Academy of Otolaryngology; Science Daily, Health.com

Have You Heard…By Naomi Kenan

presents the

Health & Beauty Special SectionFeatured in the MarcH 2009 issue

Call your account representative for further information

973.276.1688

Deadline: February 8, 2009 • In Homes: February 27, 2009

Feature Article on Cosmetic DermatologyHealth & Beauty Resource Directory