Thursday, August 2, 2018

How to of the Day

How to of the Day


How to Get Chlorine Out of Your Hair

Posted: 02 Aug 2018 05:00 PM PDT

Chlorine is an essential part of keeping most pools clean, but it can also be rough on your hair. Chlorine can lend a green tint to light hair and will make most hair dry and brittle over time. Getting chlorine out of your hair is easy, though. You can rinse it out in your shower using a chlorine-removal product or a home treatment like apple cider vinegar or baking soda.

EditSteps

EditRemoving Chlorine with Swim Products

  1. Shampoo your hair with a swim shampoo. Swim shampoos, or chlorine removal shampoos, are formulated specifically to help remove chlorine and any resulting green tint. Wash your hair thoroughly with a swim shampoo as soon as possible after you get out of the pool. Be sure to work the shampoo into a lather and let it sit for a minute before rinsing it completely.[1]
    Get Chlorine Out of Your Hair Step 1 Version 2.jpg
    • If you have color-treated hair, you can always substitute a swim shampoo for a color-safe clarifying shampoo.
    • These shampoos are available at most pharmacies, beauty and haircare stores, and online retailers.
    • Using a conditioner after shampoo will help you work out any tangles and keep your hair smooth.
  2. Spritz on a chlorine-removal spray instead of buying new shampoo. Some athletics stores and swim stores sell chlorine removal sprays. These are used in the shower after you rinse your hair, but before you shampoo. Hold the bottle about half an arm's length from your head, and mist all your hair with the spray. Then, use your regular shampoo to rinse the spray away.[2]
    Get Chlorine Out of Your Hair Step 2 Version 2.jpg
    • These sprays work by neutralizing the chlorine in your hair to prevent damage and irritation.
    • Most chlorine-removal sprays are formulated to work on both hair and skin, so you can use it to remove chlorine irritation and smell on your skin, too.
  3. Try a specialty treatment if you regularly expose your hair to chlorine. Some companies that make swim shampoos also make specialty treatments. These often come as packets of a powder-like treatment that you massage into your hair in the shower. Allow it to sit for 2-3 minutes before washing it out.[3]
    Get Chlorine Out of Your Hair Step 3 Version 2.jpg
    • These treatments can be used instead of or in addition to other chlorine-removal products.

EditTreating Your Hair at Home

  1. Make a paste using baking soda. Mix a ¼ cup (32 g) to ½ cup (64 g) of baking soda with enough water to form a runny paste. Apply the paste to damp hair and massage it from your scalp to your ends. Then, rinse out the paste using clean water and shampoo.[[4] [Image:Get Chlorine Out of Your Hair Step 3.jpg|center]]
    Get Chlorine Out of Your Hair Step 4 Version 2.jpg
    • The baking soda will help neutralize the chlorine and lift out any green color the chlorine deposited. Your hair will feel dry after using baking soda, so follow up with a moisturizing conditioner.
    • If you have very light hair, you may have to repeat this process a few times to fully lift any residual green color.
  2. Wash your hair with apple cider vinegar. Apple cider vinegar can work like a clarifying shampoo after you swim. Simply pour about a ¼ cup (about 60 ml) of apple cider vinegar over your head while showering. Use your fingers to work it from your scalp to your tips. Then, rinse the vinegar away with clean, warm water.[5]
    Get Chlorine Out of Your Hair Step 5 Version 3.jpg
    • There is no need to shampoo after using vinegar. If the smell of the vinegar lingers, follow up by using conditioner to get rid of the odor if it bothers you.
    • Apple cider vinegar can be stripping, so it's not generally advisable to use this treatment intermittently. If you swim regularly, it may be worth investing in a chlorine-removal product.[6]
  3. Try tomato product like tomato paste, ketchup, or tomato juice. Apply a thin layer of your tomato product to damp hair, working from the scalp to the ends. Allow it to sit for 10-15 minutes before rinsing your hair thoroughly in the shower. Once the water rinses clear, shampoo your hair and follow up with your regular hair care routine. [7]
    Get Chlorine Out of Your Hair Step 6.jpg
    • Use a wide-toothed comb to help evenly distribute the product through your hair.
    • The red color of tomato products is thought to be particularly helpful for neutralizing the green coloring chlorine can leave behind on lighter hair.
  4. Add lemon juice to club soda to create a citrus rinse. In a small bowl, mix the juice from one lemon with a splash of club soda.Pour this over damp or dry hair, and comb through with a wide-toothed comb to evenly distribute the product. Let the mixture sit for 3-5 minutes, then rinse your hair thoroughly in the shower. Follow the rinse with your regular shampoo. [8]
    Get Chlorine Out of Your Hair Step 7.jpg
    • You can also add the treatment to a spray bottle and spray it over your hair.
    • Do not try this treatment if you have a dry, cracked, irritated, or flaky scalp.

EditPreventing Future Chlorine Buildup

  1. Wear a swim cap. If you plan to swim a lot, a good swim cap is a worthwhile investment. Look for a silicone swim cap that is lightweight, breathable, and comfortable on your head. A good cap shouldn't snag your hair or cause headaches from wear.[9]
    Get Chlorine Out of Your Hair Step 8.jpg
    • To get the most from your cap, be sure that all your hair is tucked underneath it before you enter the pool.
  2. Soak your hair with clean water. Before you get in the pool, wet your hair completely with clean water from the shower. This may minimize the amount of chlorinated water your hair is able to absorb once you get in the pool.[10]
    Get Chlorine Out of Your Hair Step 9.jpg
    • Many pools have showers in the locker rooms or outside near the swimming area that you can use before and after you swim.
  3. Coat your hair with an oil before you swim. Since oil is hydrophobic (water-fearing), it will help repel chlorinated water from your hair. Liberally apply a hair oil from scalp to tip before you swim. To get the most out of the oil, use it under a swim cap.[11]
    Get Chlorine Out of Your Hair Step 10.jpg
    • If you don't have a hair oil, you can use olive oil, coconut oil, avocado oil, or jojoba oil.
  4. Rinse your hair immediately after swimming. Even if you don't take a full shower in the locker room after swimming, at least rinse your hair. This will kickstart the process of removing chlorine and help prevent the long-term buildup of pool chemicals in your hair.[12]
    Get Chlorine Out of Your Hair Step 11.jpg

EditThings You'll Need

  • Swim shampoo
  • Chlorine-removal spray
  • Baking soda
  • Apple cider vinegar
  • Tomato paste
  • Lemon juice
  • A swim cap

EditRelated wikiHows

EditSources and Citations


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How to Impress Someone on a First Date

Posted: 02 Aug 2018 09:00 AM PDT

It finally happened: you nabbed a date with the guy or gal of your dreams and you want to make sure to impress them. Though you may be sweating bullets in anticipation, there are a ton of things you can do to make sure the date goes incredibly well.

EditSteps

EditDate Help

EditPreparing for the Date

  1. Take some time to relax. Before the date, you might feel incredibly anxious, nervous, excited, or any combination of the 3. To help calm these pre-date jitters, try doing something relaxing that can take your mind off the upcoming occasion and put you in an easygoing, happy mood. Some different ways to calm down include:
    Impress Someone on a First Date Step 1 Version 3.jpg
    • Working out or doing yoga
    • Reading a book
    • Watching a movie or TV show
    • Singing your favorite song
  2. Prepare some simple first date questions. If you're nervous about what to say on the date, try coming up with some conversation starters you can fall back on if necessary. These can revolve around topics like family, pets, art, hobbies, and current events. If you can't think of anything, try general questions like:[1]
    Impress Someone on a First Date Step 2 Version 3.jpg
    • "What are some things on your bucket list?"
    • "What are your favorite movies/musicians/books?"
    • "If you could get a front row ticket to any event, which 1 would you choose?"
  3. Take a shower and groom yourself. Before your date, take a bath or shower and make sure to clean every part of your body. Then, put on some antiperspirant or deodorant, brush your teeth, and get your hair ready. If necessary, freshen up 1 more time right before the date.[2]
    Impress Someone on a First Date Step 3 Version 3.jpg
    • If you have facial hair, make sure to either shave it off or trim it down so your face looks nice and clean.
    • If you want, put on some first date makeup that matches your outfit.
    • A small amount of perfume or cologne can make a powerful statement.
  4. Put on nice clothes that match the occasion. If you're going to a high-class restaurant or similarly fancy place, put on something elegant like a nice dress or good-looking suit. If you're spending your time in a relaxed environment like a movie theater or putt-putt course instead, go for something casual that flatters you.[3]
    Impress Someone on a First Date Step 4 Version 3.jpg
    • No matter what you wear, make sure it doesn't restrict your breath or movement too much. First dates are all about getting to know each other, so something that makes it difficult to interact will lead to a bad first impression.
    • If you're going to a place that requires a lot of walking, leave the heels at home.
  5. Clean your car if you're using it on the date. A dirty car may drive perfectly fine, but it will give your date a bad first impression. To avoid this, clean out the inside of your car to remove any trash or unwanted objects. If there are a lot of crumbs inside your car, use a vacuum to pick them up. If the outside of your car is noticeably dirty, run it through a car wash.
    Impress Someone on a First Date Step 5 Version 3.jpg
    • If the inside of your car has a distinct odor, purchase a hanging air freshener.
  6. Pick up a small gift for your date as a pleasant surprise. Giving your date a small present will create a great first impression, especially if they aren't expecting it! For a more formal or traditional occasion, try bringing a bouquet of flowers or a small box of chocolates. For something more casual or unique, consider bringing a small stuffed animal or baked treat.[4]
    Impress Someone on a First Date Step 6 Version 3.jpg
    • The point of the gift is to show that you care, so avoid giving anything big or expensive on your first date.
    • If you're going to a place that sells small gifts, like a museum or fair, try buying your present during the date instead.
    • Though most people give their gift at the beginning of the date, you can save it for the middle or end if you prefer.

EditHaving a Great Time

  1. Show up on time. Whether you're picking your date up or taking separate cars, make sure to arrive at the time you agreed upon. If possible, show up a couple of minutes early. Though being tardy by a minute or 2 will not make a huge difference, anything more will start your date off on the wrong foot.[5]
    Impress Someone on a First Date Step 7 Version 3.jpg
    • If you think you will be late for reasons outside of your control, such as slow traffic, let your date know via text message.
  2. Be kind and polite to your date. To make a good first impression, be kind to your date and everybody else you interact with. Do your best to stay positive throughout the night and, if you get angry or sad, do you best not to show it. Avoid saying anything cruel even if you mean it as a joke since it will make you appear rude and unkind.[6]
    Impress Someone on a First Date Step 8 Version 3.jpg
    • You don't have to follow a specific set of etiquette rules, just avoid doing things that make you look mean.
    • If you're at a restaurant, make sure to use good table manners when eating. To avoid coming off as callous, be polite to your server and leave a generous tip.
    • If you're going to a place that serves alcohol, don't drink more than you can handle. Getting drunk is the easiest way to ensure your date never calls back.
  3. Communicate openly and honestly. A first date is all about getting to know each other, so try to be as open and honest as possible. Putting on a face will only lead to further problems down the road, so use your conversations as a way to show your date who you really are.
    Impress Someone on a First Date Step 9 Version 3.jpg
    • Though you shouldn't try to be someone you're not, save sensitive subjects like your sexual desires, previous relationships, and personal struggles for a later time.
    • Though most people consider religious and political topics off-limits, they may be worth bringing up if you think it could be a problem down the road.
  4. Ask your date questions about their life. To see if you truly click with your date, try asking them questions about the thing they care about most: themselves. Not only will this teach you more about who they are, but it will keep you from coming off as self-centered. Make sure to actually listen to what they say and respond appropriately. Some good things to ask about include:[7]
    Impress Someone on a First Date Step 10 Version 3.jpg
    • Where your date went to school and what they studied.
    • Whether or not your date has siblings, children, or pets.
    • What your date does for a living.
    • What hobbies your date enjoys.
    • What movies, TV shows, musicians, books, and other forms of art your date enjoys.
  5. Don't be afraid to flirt. If things appear to be going well, try flirting with your date to see what happens! Start out by paying them small compliments or gently teasing them. If they respond positively, try breaking the touch barrier by placing your hand on their arm or shoulder. If they begin to show signs of being uncomfortable, however, stop immediately. If you go too far too fast, they most likely will be freaked out, or at least a little uncomfortable. Some other simple flirting techniques include:
    Impress Someone on a First Date Step 11 Version 3.jpg
    • Smiling at your date.
    • Looking into your date's eyes when they are talking.
    • Laughing at your date's jokes even if they're not particularly funny.
    • Opening up your stance so you seem friendly and approachable.
  6. Offer to pay for the date. Determining who pays for a date is often the most difficult part of the occasion. As a general rule, assume that the person who asked for the date will pay for everything, but offer to take the bill out of courtesy. If your date declines, offer to "go Dutch" and pay for yourself. They may still say "no," but asking shows that you aren't just trying to score a free meal.[8]
    Impress Someone on a First Date Step 12 Version 3.jpg
    • Though society used to expect men to pay for everything, these gender norms are not as common among younger generations.
  7. End the night with a kiss if it feels right. Though most first dates don't end in sex, showing your date a really wonderful time might lead to a kiss. If your date seems like they want to kiss you, lean in toward their lips. If they turn away or otherwise indicate that they don't want to kiss, apologize and give them space. To figure out if your date is down to kiss, look to see if they:
    Impress Someone on a First Date Step 13.jpg
    • Stare at your lips while you're talking.
    • Subtly touch or bite their lips.
    • Start talking in a softer voice.
  8. Follow up with your date the next day. If you had a good time, make sure to call your date the next day. Thank them for taking the time to go out with you, and mention that you'd love to meet up with them again in the future. If they do not answer, make sure to leave a voicemail instead.[9]
    Impress Someone on a First Date Step 14.jpg
    • Though making a call is typically the best option, you can follow up via text or social media if that's how you and your date normally communicate.

EditWarnings

  • If you make a noticeable mistake during your date, don't try to cover it up. Instead, apologize and express that you'd like to fix the problem.

EditRelated wikiHows

EditSources and Citations


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How to Get Inspired

Posted: 02 Aug 2018 01:00 AM PDT

If you're feeling stuck and uninspired, take comfort in the fact that it happens to everyone from time to time. Don't worry, though, you can get out of this slump. Start by setting a clear goal, whether you want to write a story, paint a picture, or work though a problem. Find inspiration from things in your life, and learn to be open to that inspiration. Clear your mind so you can take that inspiration and turn it into steps to meet your goal.

EditSteps

EditUsing Outside Sources for Inspiration

  1. Surround yourself with things that energize you. You know what you love, whether it's fresh-cut flowers, beautiful paintings, or meaningful quotes. Make these things a part of your everyday life. They'll energize you, which can help create the right mindset for being inspired.[1]
    Get Inspired Step 1 Version 2.jpg
    • These things will make you feel happier, which will leave you feeling more positive about life. Having a positive outlook can make you more receptive to inspiration.
  2. Listen to classical music. Classical music is good for inspiration because it's so complex. It can put you in a better emotional state for absorbing information and help you relax.[2]

    Get Inspired Step 2 Version 2.jpg
    • When you're more relaxed and in a better frame of mind for learning, you're more receptive to new ideas that might be the perfect inspiration for the problem you're working on.
    • If classical music isn't your style, pick another style more to your liking. For instance, try instrumental music from a soundtrack or even something with lyrics that energizes you.
  3. Spend time reading. Reading can inspire you by providing fresh thoughts and ideas. Read anything from novels to news stories, and you may find an idea or even just a sentence in the text sparks inspiration for you.[3]
    Get Inspired Step 3 Version 2.jpg
  4. Learn more about your issue or topic. Spend some time researching on the internet to learn more about your issue. Alternatively, go to the library to find out more. You could even take a class in the topic for a more in-depth look.
    Get Inspired Step 4 Version 2.jpg
    • Try looking on educational or government websites for solid information. Check for the ".edu" or ".gov" extension at the end of the web address.
    • Learning more about the topic can give you the information you need to get inspired. Sometimes, you just don't have enough knowledge to solve your problem or create the item you need.
  5. Change your routine. When you're stuck in your daily routine, you stop noticing things around you. Changing up your routine invigorates your mind with new sights, smells, and sounds, which can provide you with inspiration.[4]
    Get Inspired Step 5 Version 2.jpg
    • For instance, change up your route to work, pick a different grocery store, or go somewhere new for your cup of coffee.
  6. Take a trip. Traveling someplace, anyplace, can shake up your thinking, creating space for new ideas. You don't have to travel to a new country. A simple day trip to a nearby town is often enough to get your creative juices flowing.[5]
    Get Inspired Step 6 Version 2.jpg
    • If you can't even afford a day trip, try exploring your own city. Visit a park you've never seen, or try a new restaurant with a cuisine you've never had before.
  7. Try a new art form. If you're trying to get inspired to write a song or paint a picture, maybe take an afternoon class in sculpture. If you're trying to figure out a new recipe, maybe try a workshop on writing. Trying new outlets can get your creative juices flowing, which helps to open your mind to new inspiration.[6]
    Get Inspired Step 7 Version 2.jpg

EditGetting Inspired by Other People

  1. Bounce ideas off of other people. When you're feeling stuck, reach out for some help. Just talking about the issue with someone else can help get your creative juices flowing. They may say that one thing that helps a problem make sense to you, for instance.[7]
    Get Inspired Step 8 Version 2.jpg
    • Get together with a coworker or good friend to help jumpstart inspiration.
  2. Ask people what they're most grateful for. As you go about your day, ask the question of everyone you meet. You may be surprised by some of the answers, and you'll likely be inspired by what you hear.[8]
    Get Inspired Step 9 Version 2.jpg
  3. Learn about inspirational people. Try reading an autobiography or a biography of someone famous who made a difference. Alternatively, look up videos about them online or read webpages dedicated to them.[9]
    Set Goals for Life Step 11 Version 2.jpg
    • Learning about great people can inspire you to do great things yourself. For instance, learning about Martin Luther King, Jr. may inspire you to make a difference in your community.
  4. Teach someone else how to do something. Teaching is a great way to learn more about subject. You have to dive more deeply into it to be able to explain it effectively to someone else. As you dig deeper, you'll likely find inspiration for a creative project or even a solution to an issue you're facing.[10]
    Get Inspired Step 11 Version 3.jpg
    • The tutoring session doesn't have to be in a creative field. Just diving deep into a subject can help open your mind to possibilities.
  5. Meet up with other artists or thinkers. Sometimes, just being around other people who have the same creative interests as you can help spark ideas. You can talk about your project and see what people think or just have interesting conversations about more general topics, which can also spark inspiration.[11]
    Get Inspired Step 12 Version 3.jpg
    • Look for community clubs to find other artists or thinkers in your area. The parks and recreation department in your town is a good place to start.


EditClearing Your Head

  1. Think "What if...?" instead of "I can't." When you employ a closed-ended statement like, "I can't do it"; "I'm stumped"; or "I just can't figure this out," you end up creating a self-fulfilling prophecy. Your brain agrees with you, and you shut down. However, using open-ended statements can help open up possibilities, as it literally changes the way you think.[12] For instance, you could use one of the following statements or questions:
    Get Inspired Step 13 Version 3.jpg
    • "I am smart enough to figure this out."
    • "I will figure out a solution to this issue."
    • "What other options are there?"
    • "What possibilities have I not thought of?"
    • "What if...?"
  2. Brainstorm with free association or free writing. Brainstorming can help you come up with new ideas when you're stuck. Free writing is a method of brainstorming where you write down ideas on paper. Start with a topic, and just write down whatever comes to mind.[13]
    Get Inspired Step 14 Version 3.jpg
    • The key is to turn off the part of your brain that wants to edit. Just let your mind go, and don't judge as it comes up with thoughts and ideas.
  3. Take a break but don't give up. Sometimes, when you've been working too hard on a problem, you may be tapped out. Maybe you want to quit. Quitting won't solve the problem, but taking a break may help. Just getting away from the issue for a few minutes may be all you need.[14]
    Get Inspired Step 15 Version 2.jpg
    • Try taking a mental break, where you imagine yourself somewhere else. Close your eyes, and pretend you're somewhere you find relaxing. Imagine the sights, sounds, and smells of the place so you feel like you're there.
    • Alternatively, go on a short walk to get a change of environment.
  4. Exercise to clear your head. Engaging your body in physical exertion gives you a chance to focus on something besides getting inspired. Focusing on the task of working out gives your brain something to do. However, you'll still be subconsciously working on the issue, and inspiration may break through.[15]
    Get Inspired Step 16.jpg
    • Try working out 3 to 5 times a week, as it helps keep you energized and alert.
  5. Turn off the technology. While technology can be a source of inspiration, it can also distract you from what's going on around you. Try turning your cellphone, computer, television, and other technology off for the day. Focus on the people around you, the food you're eating, and the things you see as you go about your day.[16]
    Get Inspired Step 17.jpg
    • If your head's buried in your phone, for instance, you may not see the moment that inspires your next big thing.
  6. Take a creative break in an unrelated field. To get out of your head or your current problem, try doing something completely different that's creative but that you love. For instance, if you're trying to get through a work problem, take a break to do some painting. If you can't figure out what to write next, try playing an instrument or gardening for a bit.[17]
    Get Inspired Step 18.jpg
    • Engaging different parts of your brain while staying in a creative mode can help generate new ideas.

EditTurning Inspiration into Action

  1. Examine each idea that pops up. Sometimes, you may be inclined to toss out ideas because they seem too crazy. However, the "crazy" idea may be the one that solves the problem. Don't just throw an idea out just because it seems weird or strange.[18]
    Get Inspired Step 19.jpg
    • For instance, maybe you're trying to write a poem. You may think most poems are about love or death so you dismiss other ideas. However, you can write a poem about almost anything, from snuggling with your cat or taking a walk to cooking a meal.
    • Of course, not every crazy idea will work. Take time to think through it to figure it if it will.
  2. Jot your ideas down in one place. When you get an idea or inspired thought, write it down in a journal or notebook. The more you are open to inspiration, the more likely you are to get ideas. Plus, having ideas written down in a notebook makes it easier to come back to later.[19]
    Get Inspired Step 20.jpg
    • Be ready for inspiration at any time. Carry a small notebook with you wherever you go.
    • If you're more visual, try a vision board with pictures and select words instead.[20]
  3. Start working on an idea even if it's not perfect. Perfectionism can be paralyzing. It can make your question every action you want to take because you think it's not perfect. Therefore, it's best to just choose an idea and start moving forward with it. It may not be perfect, but it's a place to start.[21]
    Get Inspired Step 21.jpg
    • Just the act of doing can inspire you to find the right solution.
  4. Focus on one problem at a time. When you try to juggle too many problems at once, it can overwhelm you. Instead, focus on solving one issue at a time, and save the other tasks for later.[22]
    Get Inspired Step 22.jpg
    • If you need to, make a list of the things you need to get done so you can focus on just one thing right now.
  5. Set achievable goals. Break the task you have ahead into pieces so you don't find yourself overwhelmed. Figure out what you can do today, and make that your goal. It can help to write out a goal for each day. Be realistic about what you can get done.
    Get Inspired Step 23.jpg
    • For instance, maybe you're trying to write a short story. Think about the number of words or pages you can comfortably write in a day, and aim for that.
    • Don't beat yourself up if you don't meet your goal. Just start again tomorrow.

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EditQuick Summary


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