How to Make Your Mascara Look Great

If you're tired of thin, barely there lashes or clumpy, spidery lashes, it may be time to rethink how you apply your mascara. Making your mascara look great starts with using the right type, but it's also important to prepare your lashes in the right way and know the proper techniques for applying mascara to achieve maximum impact. Once you pick up a few quick tips, you can have long, thick, fluttery lashes without falsies everyday.

Steps

Finding the Right Mascara

1. Choose the right mascara formula. The first step in making your mascara look great is making sure to use the right formula. Mascaras are designed to do different things for your lashes, so if you use a lengthening mascara when you want thicker-looking lashes, you’ll probably be disappointed. Check to make sure that the formula you’re using meets your needs.^[1]
   
   • A lengthening or defining mascara is meant to help your lashes look longer.
   • A volumizing or thickening mascara is meant to help your lashes look thicker.
   • A curling mascara is meant to help lift and bend straight lashes.
   • A tubing mascara contains special polymers that form tubes around your lashes that make them longer and thicker.
   • A fiber mascara contain fiber filaments that adhere to your natural lashes so they appear thicker and longer.
   • Some mascara formulas are designed to lengthen and thicken for an overall improved look for the lashes. If you’re not sure what you want out of mascara, opt for this type of multipurpose formula.
   • Depending on your needs, you may want to use a combination of mascaras in different formulas. For example, you may do a first coat with a volumizing mascara and then add a second coat of a lengthening mascara to separate and define your lashes.
2. Consider the mascara’s brush or wand. In addition to the mascara formula itself, the type of brush or wand that a mascara has makes a big difference in the finished look of your lashes. Some brushes feature nylon bristles, while others are made of molded plastic. The shape and layout of the brush affects how the mascara is applied as well. Work with a brush or wand that suits your needs.^[2]
   
   • For thick, fluttery lashes, look for a mascara with a brush that is thick and densely bristled.
   • For long, defined lashes, look for a mascara with a brush that has sparse, short bristles.
   • For the lower lashes, choose a mascara with a small brush head.
3. Opt for a waterproof formula. If you want to ensure that your mascara looks great all day, it’s important to use a waterproof version. It holds up well to tears, sweat, and any other kind of moisture, and also helps lock the curl into your lashes. Use a waterproof mascara so you don’t have to worry about running, smudging, or flaking beneath the eyes.^[3]
   
   • The drawback to waterproof mascara is that it can be tough to remove. Make sure that you have a waterproof eye makeup remover on hand to take it off at the end of the day.
   • If you wear contacts or have sensitive eyes, be sure that your mascara is also hypoallergenic so you don’t have to worry about the formula irritating your eyes.
4. Keep your mascara fresh. Like all makeup, mascara can actually go bad over time. An old mascara can not only cause eye irritations and infections, but it can make your lashes look clumpy. That’s because mascara dries out as it gets old so it can become thick and crusty. Make sure the mascara that you’re using is less than 3 months old.
   
   • If you have multiple tubes of mascara and it’s difficult to keep track of how old they are, consider putting labels on them. Write the date that you opened the tube on the label, and stick it on the mascara so you’ll know when your 3 months are up.
5. Use a black mascara. For the best, most intense look, you should use a black mascara. It does the best job of making lashes look thicker and longer, so be sure to choose the blackest mascara you can find. Save colored mascaras, such as blue, purple, or green, for adding a fun pop of color to your lower lashes.^[4]
   
   • If you have extremely fair skin, you may prefer to use a black brown mascara so it doesn’t look as harsh.

Preparing Your Lashes

1. Condition your lashes nightly. For your mascara to look as good as possible, you must start with soft, healthy lashes. You can purchase a lash conditioner product that helps moisturize your lashes. Apply it nightly after you’ve removed all of your mascara and other eye makeup to wake up with healthy lashes.^[5]
   
   • If you don’t want to purchase a specialty lash conditioner, you can use petroleum jelly, vitamin E, or coconut oil. Dip a clean spoolie into one of them, and coat your lashes before going to bed.
2. Curl your lashes before applying mascara. Your mascara will look better if your lashes are curled. That’s because curling your lashes lifts them and helps them look a little fuller. However, it’s important to use your lash curler before you apply mascara. If your lashes are wet, they can stick to the curler and you may pull some out while you’re curling.^[6]
   
   • If you don’t have an eyelash curler or aren’t comfortable using one, you can apply your mascara first. When your lashes are still wet, gently push them upward to create and curl. Hold them like that for 10 to 15 seconds.
3. Start with a lash primer. After curling your lashes, it helps to apply a lash primer before using your mascara. A primer conditions and coats the lashes so they appear thicker and longer. They’ll also provide a base for the mascara to cling to.
   

Applying Your Mascara

1. Blot the mascara wand. When you pull the mascara wand out of the tube, it will be loaded with product. If you apply it to your lashes right away, your lashes may look clumpy. Instead, wipe the wand off on a tissue or napkin to remove the excess mascara.^[7]
   
   • If you don’t have a tissue handy, try wiping the wand off on the side of the tube’s opening.
2. Wiggle the wand back and forth at the base of the lashes. When you’re ready to apply the mascara, start by holding the brush right at the root of your lashes. Gently wiggle it back and forth to ensure that you apply a generous coat at the root.^[8]
   
   • Make sure to wiggle the brush left to right rather than up and down for the best looking lashes.
3. Use a zigzag motion to cover your lashes. After you’ve applied mascara to the base of your lashes, move the wand in a zigzag motion from the roots to the tips of your lashes. This technique creates a more fluttery look for your lashes.^[9]
   
   • For your lower lashes, hold the wand vertically so you can coat each lash individually.
4. Comb through your lashes after applying the mascara. Once you’ve applied the first coat of mascara, allow your lashes to dry for 3 to 5 seconds. Next, take a clean lash comb and run through your lashes to remove any clumps and fan out your lashes.^[10]
   
   • If you don’t have a lash brush or comb, you can use a clean toothbrush or disposable spoolie to comb through your lashes.
5. Add additional coats if necessary. If your lashes don’t appear as long or thick as you’d like after your first coat of mascara, apply additional coats. Keep in mind that the more mascara you add, the more likely your lashes are to clump so don’t overload on mascara.^[11]
   
   • Be sure to comb your lashes after each coat of mascara that you apply to avoid clumps.

Tips

• Apply other eye makeup, such as eye shadow and liner, before you apply your mascara.
• If you’re worried about getting mascara on your eyelid, hold a business card over your eyelid, just above your lashes, as you apply it. Any smudges that you might make will happen on the card, not your eyelid.
• If you do get mascara on your eyelid, carefully spin the tip of cotton swab on the spot to remove the mascara without disturbing your other eye makeup.
• Don’t pump your mascara wand in and out of the tube. That introduces air into the bottle, which will dry your mascara out faster.

Things You’ll Need

• Mascara in your chosen formula
• Lash conditioner
• An eyelash curler
• Lash primer
• A lash comb or brush

Related wikiHows

• Apply Mascara
• Apply False Eyelashes
• Apply Makeup
• Apply Eye Makeup
• Get Perfect Eyelashes

References

1. ↑ https://www.makeupgeek.com/content/makeup-basics/how-to-apply-mascara-like-a-pro/
2. ↑ http://www.allure.com/story/how-to-choose-mascara-wand
3. ↑ https://www.makeupgeek.com/content/makeup-basics/how-to-apply-mascara-like-a-pro/
4. ↑ https://www.makeupgeek.com/content/makeup-basics/how-to-apply-mascara-like-a-pro/
5. ↑ http://stylecaster.com/beauty/tricks-for-eyelashes/
6. ↑ http://www.refinery29.com/how-to-use-mascara#slide-1
7. ↑ http://stylecaster.com/beauty/tricks-for-eyelashes/
8. ↑ http://stylecaster.com/beauty/tricks-for-eyelashes/
9. ↑ http://www.refinery29.com/how-to-use-mascara#slide-4
10. ↑ http://stylecaster.com/beauty/tricks-for-eyelashes/
11. ↑ http://www.refinery29.com/how-to-use-mascara#slide-10

source How to of the Day https://ift.tt/MolfvLH

How to Be Friends with Guys

Forming close relationships without sending romantic signals

Are you a girl looking to expand your social circle to include some boys? It’s normal if you don’t already have some platonic (that is, non-romantic) boy friends, as from age 4 onwards, boys and girls tend to form more same-gender friendships.^[1] Fortunately, with just a bit of effort, you can make guy friends who are just as fun to be around as your girl friends. For tips on meeting boys and how to keep things non-romantic with them, keep reading!

Things You Should Know

• Seek out male friendships by joining a sports team or club that you’re passionate about.
• Get closer to guys by doing fun activities together, like going rock climbing or playing video games.
• Keep things platonic by not being overly affectionate and letting your guy friends know that you’re only interested in being friends.^[2]

Steps

Meeting Guys

1. Be friendly and approachable. Though you may not be used to being around boys, remember they are people just like you. Casual greetings and small talk can go a long way! When you’re out and about, smile and make eye contact with boys to signal to them that you’re open to chat.^[3]
   
   • Don’t get too discouraged if boys don’t always respond positively. Boys are often taught to be “manly” at a young age, so it may take more time for a boy to warm up to you. Remember that if boys are rude to you when you are just being friendly, it says a lot more about them than it does about you.
   • When you’re looking for guys to be friends with, look for ones who respect women. Making friends with guys who only keep you around to poke fun at you or make derogatory marks about your gender is bound to get exhausting after a while.
2. Join an extracurricular activity. Boy-girl friendships are most likely to occur outside of school, so take this as an opportunity to pursue something you like and hopefully find some new friends in the process!^[4] Join a sports team or take an art class to meet boys with similar interests as you.
   
   • Find an activity that you genuinely enjoy. For example, join an intramural soccer team if you like playing soccer, but don’t do it just to meet boys! Boys are everywhere and, though there is a stereotype that they're only interested in sports, they have a wide range of interests too.
   • You could also join a movie club or volunteer at the local animal shelter. Chances are, there will be at least a couple boys there who are interested in the same thing, and you’ll be able to bond over a genuine shared interest.
3. Invite your girl friends to be friends with boys, too. See if any of your other girl friends are also interested in becoming friends with boys and invite them to do simple things, such as sitting together to eat lunch. After all, there’s no law saying that friend groups need to be divided by gender.
   
   • Keeping other friends around is a great way to send the signal that you aren’t romantically interested in any of your guy friends.
   • If your girl friends ask you why you want to be friends with boys, explain that you are looking for platonic friendships.^[5] After all, boys make up about half the human population, so you are all going to need to learn how to interact with them in a healthy and positive manner sooner or later!^[6]

Becoming Friends

1. Do fun activities together. It always takes time to get to know another person and form a real friendship. This is especially true of boys, because they are taught to talk and share less about their emotions and personal lives as an expression of their masculinity.^[7] Do fun activities together to get to know one another.
   
   • Activities as simple as going to the park, watching TV, doing homework together, or hanging out with other friends are all great, low-pressure situations which will gradually develop the friendship.
   • Or, go to the bowling alley, play golf, or ride bikes together.
   • Female friendships tend to be built on spending quality time together and talking, while male friendships are more about doing activities together.
2. Be less affectionate than usual.^[8] Girls tend to be more physically and verbally affectionate with one another, while boys tend to show they care through less obvious means, such as doing favors for each other. When you’re hanging out with a guy friend, show him how much you care through actions instead of words. If things start seeming flirty or romantic, don’t spend time alone together, and put some distance between you two.
   
   • Though your instinct may be to give your boy friend a hug when you see him, a simple wave and “hi” will suffice. Show that you’re glad to have his friendship by giving small compliments or offering to help him with a class he’s struggling with.
   • Establish boundaries and follow them so there is clarity about the type of relationship you wish to share from the beginning.^[9] For instance, you might say, “I really like hanging out with you, but just as friends.”
3. Be yourself. Though this may seem like a cliché, it’s important to always stay true to yourself. Otherwise, any friendships you do make will be based on a false persona, and it won’t be a real friendship.^[10]
   
   • Be honest about who you are, such as your interests, likes and dislikes, how you spend your days, etc. Even if you are into more traditionally feminine things, such as baking or crafting, that doesn’t mean you will always be excluded from having friendships with boys. After all, you may even find a boy who is interested in the same activity!

Spending Time Together

1. Go with the flow. Whether you’re hanging out with one or multiple boys, it’s likely that the time you spend with boy friends will be very different from when you’re with your girl friends.^[11] Knowing and being open to this difference will help you and your new friends enjoy your time together.
   
   • Going with the flow can be as simple as letting go of expectations of what you will do with your guy friends. For example, if you’re invited over to a new boy friend’s place, don’t be surprised or annoyed if you spend the next few hours vegging out on the couch and watching sports.
   • If your guy friends call you up out of the blue to hang out, take them up on it. Sometimes, guys get together spontaneously without much planning ahead.
2. Learn more about stereotypically masculine hobbies. While girls tend to get together to talk or unwind together, many boys tend to get together for a specific activity, even if it’s just playing video games or scrimmaging basketball.^[12] Knowing the basics of at least a couple of these typically masculine activities will increase the likelihood of boys considering you to be “just one of the guys.” You may even discover a new, previously unexplored interest!
   
   • If you’re already an active person, try taking up a new sport. Even just watching a sport or keeping up with a specific team will give you a lot to discuss with your new friends.
   • If you’re a more sedentary person, explore what the latest video games are to see if any of them grab your interest.
3. Have a sense of humor. Boys tend to bond over jokes, and often even make fun of each other.^[13] Let them know if they’ve crossed a line, but also realize that joking at others’ expense is a common male activity. If you’re getting picked on but you know that you are actually friends with the boy, come up with some funny rebuttals.
   
   • For example, if your friend makes fun of your poor performance in something, laugh along to let them know you aren’t too sensitive. Poke at one of their weaknesses in a funny way. Just be sure to keep it lighthearted!
   • For instance, you might say, “Oh yeah? Well at least I can hit a ball! I don’t strike out every time like you, Connor.”
4. Observe and copy how guys interact with each other. Watching is one of the best ways to learn how to fit in. While it’s always going to be clear that you are different from boys, you can make this difference less noticeable by noticing how guys treat each other and imitating them.
   
   • For instance, guys might call each other “bro” or “dude.”
   • Guys might also tease each other about girls.
   • With this step, just make sure you are not going overboard. Display your natural personality but pick up little gestures, like fist bumps as greetings and common topics that boys discuss.

Dealing with Social Pressures

1. Learn to stand up for yourself. Due to gender norms and the sometimes unhealthy social environments in schools, don’t be surprised if you find others being unsupportive of your friendship or actively teasing you about it. Let everyone know that it’s okay to be friends with guys, and you don’t care what they think about it.^[14]
   
   • If other kids accuse you of being in a romantic relationship or tease you about your friendship, practice some basic comebacks like, “He’s a friend who happens to be a boy, so what?”
   • If you don’t get worked up about it, eventually other kids will get tired of teasing you and leave you and your friend alone.
2. Make it clear you are just friends. You may find pressure to turn your friendship into a romantic relationship, but stick to what you want. Let your guy friends know that you just want to be platonic, not romantic with them.^[15][16]
   
   • To keep the connection platonic, decline romantic gestures, split all the tabs for social activities, and make sure not to blur the lines of physical contact.^[17]
   • Even adults may inadvertently pressure you by asking questions such as, “Is he cute?” Let them know that you are not interested in his physical attributes and emphasize that you are just friends.
   • One study has shown that boys and girls often have a hard time maintaining their relationships because they are pressured to make it romantic or sexual.^[18] If your boy friend starts pressuring you to turn the friendship into a relationship, make it clear that you are only interested in him platonically.^[19] If he stops being your friend after that, then he never was really your friend to begin with and you’ll find other people who won’t pressure you into something you don’t want.
3. Remember your life is your own. At the end of the day, you make your own decisions about who you want to spend time with and how you want to live your life. Keeping this in mind will help you develop a stronger sense of self and not be overly affected by other people’s opinions.
   
   • Plus, having a wide variety of friends of all genders will help you be a nicer, more well-rounded person.

Video

Tips

• Don't ditch your girl friends in favor of the boys. You can still maintain your friendships with your old friends as you make new ones.

Related wikiHows

• Be Just Friends with a Member of the Opposite Sex
• Be Close Friends With the Guy You Like

Expert Interview

Thanks for reading our article! If you’d like to learn more about relationships, check out our in-depth with [v161025_b01].

References

Quick Summary

1. ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/growing-friendships/201108/can-boys-and-girls-be-friends
2. ↑ [v161025_b01]. 6 October 2023.
3. ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/intl/blog/your-wise-brain/201211/be-friendly
4. ↑ https://www.helpguide.org/relationships/social-connection/making-good-friends
5. ↑ [v161025_b01]. 6 October 2023.
6. ↑ https://www.kidscape.org.uk/advice/advice-for-young-people/how-to-make-new-friends/
7. ↑ https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/article/item/debunking_myths_boys_emotions
8. ↑ [v161898_b01]. 19 August 2021.
9. ↑ [v161898_b01]. 19 August 2021.
10. ↑ https://positivepsychology.com/self-compassion-self-love/
11. ↑ https://www.piedmont.org/living-real-change/4-reasons-friends-and-family-are-good-for-your-health
12. ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/mens-mental-health-matters/202302/tools-for-developing-positive-masculinity
13. ↑ https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/laugh-and-be-thankful-its-good-for-the-heart-20101124839
14. ↑ https://www.youthemployment.org.uk/how-to-stand-up-for-yourself-without-putting-other-people-down/
15. ↑ [v161025_b01]. 6 October 2023.
16. ↑ https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/article/item/why_friendships_among_men_are_so_important
17. ↑ [v161898_b01]. 19 August 2021.
18. ↑ https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/article/item/why_friendships_among_men_are_so_important
19. ↑ [v161025_b01]. 6 October 2023.

source How to of the Day https://ift.tt/3OIfxXd

How to Remove Scratches from a Phone Screen

Is your iPhone or Android screen scratched? This is a very common issue that can range from surface-level damage to severe failure of your device. While severe scratches typically require a screen replacement, you can remove and fix mild scratches at home. You can try buffing them out with toothpaste (if the screen is plastic), glass polish (if the screen is glass), or erasers. This wikiHow will show you how to get rid of scratches on your mobile device screens.

How do you get scratches off your phone?

Get scratches off of your phone by buffing a plastic screen with toothpaste, wiping a glass screen with glass polish, or gently scrubbing a plastic or glass screen with an eraser.

Steps

Using Toothpaste

1. Have toothpaste at the ready. Toothpaste should already be a standard part of your medicine cabinet and morning routine. Designed to be abrasive, toothpaste can fix a plastic scratch the same way it cleans teeth. Because it is home-based and shouldn't require additional purchases, toothpaste is the recommended remedy for fixing plastic scratches. It's important to make sure the toothpaste is an actual paste, as opposed to a gel-based toothpaste.^[1] In order for the scratch to work, the toothpaste needs to be abrasive. Check your toothpaste box if you're unsure about the kind of toothpaste you are using.
   
   • A baking soda mixture has the same abrasive qualities as toothpaste. If you'd rather use baking soda, you can stir up a paste with two parts baking soda and one part water. Use it in the same manner.
2. Dab the toothpaste with an applicator.^[2] Because this is a home-based remedy, there aren't any set rules of applicator you need to use. A soft cloth, paper towel, cotton swab or toothbrush can all suit your purposes in this instance. When you dab the toothpaste, you should only use a pea-sized amount. Any more will create an unwieldy mess on your phone.
   
   
3. Apply toothpaste to the scratch. Once you've got your dab of toothpaste, rub it around in a gentle, circular motion. Continue doing this until the scratch is barely noticeable. Since the toothpaste is abrasive on its own, you won't need to apply too much pressure. Keep at the scrubbing until you start to see progress. Even if the scratch is too significant to be done away with entirely, the abrasion should reduce the scratch.
   
   
   • If your scratch is significant enough, toothpaste won't be enough to fix it. Even so, it should at least reduce the look of most scratches.
   • If the scratches are severe, you can protect the cracked screen until you're able to get it replaced.
   • You can also protect a curved phone screen.
4. Clean your phone. Once the scratch is reduced to your liking, it's a simple process of cleaning off the toothpaste. Taking a soft, slightly damp cloth and wiping away the excess toothpaste is a good start. From there, you should take a polishing cloth and wipe away any dirt or oils that have otherwise built up on your screen. By doing this, you'll renew the look of your phone, and hopefully make your phone look better than even before the scratch.
   
   
   • Some methods may worsen your scratches or fail to improve them, such as: coconut oil, petroleum jelly, and powdered cleansers. Beware of these methods.
   • If the damage worsens, you will need to fix your phone screen.

Using Glass Polish

1. Purchase a cerium oxide polish. If your phone has a glass screen (instead of a plastic one) you'll have to use a more heavy-duty solution than toothpaste or baking soda to get scratches off your phone. In this case, a cerium oxide polish is recommended. This type of polish can be bought as a soluble powder, or in a pre-mixed form. While the pre-mixed polish is obviously the more convenient option, you'll get much better value if you buy it in its powdered form.
   
   • 100g of cerium oxide powder should be more than enough when it comes to polishing your phone screen. You may want to buy a larger amount in the event of future scratching.
2. Mix your powder into a slurry. If you bought powdered cerium oxide, you'll first need to prep the mix yourself. Luckily, this is very easy, and likely worth the money you'll be saving. Pour some powder (approx. 50-100g) into a small container. Slowly add water until the solution has the consistency of dairy cream. Mix regularly as you add the water in order to make sure your measurements are correct.
   
   
   • Measurements don't have to be perfect in the case of this polish, so long as you make sure there's enough water for the polish to soak into an applicator.
   • This step can be disregarded completely if you buy a pre-mixed polish.
3. Block off all vulnerable spots with tape. A cerium oxide polish will do a number on your device if it seeps into any of the phone's holes, including the speaker, headphone jack or charger input. It can also potentially endanger your phone's cam lens. With that in mind, you should first cordon off the area you'd like to have polished with tape. Cover up whatever parts of your phone that might have problems if they're touched by the polish.
   
   
   • Taping up your phone before cleaning may seem overzealous, but it's highly recommended you follow through with this step before proceeding forward. In the case of a foul-up, your phone can be quickly wrecked otherwise.
4. Apply the polish to the scratched area. Dab a smooth polishing cloth in your cerium oxide mix, and rub the scratched area in a vigorous, circular motion. Regularly check to see how the scratch is looking as you tend the area. Every 30 seconds or so, it's a good idea to wipe away the mix with the opposite end of your cloth, dab the cloth in new polish, and repeat the process for maximum effectiveness.
   
   
   • When applying an abrasive polish, you'll want to go harder with the application than if you were simply cleaning it. Make sure not to go too hard, however. There would be nothing worse than causing new cracks in the screen while you're trying to fix old ones.
5. Give your phone a follow-up clean. Once you've applied and cleaned off the polish, it won't hurt to give your phone a quick once-over with a polishing cloth. This will wipe away any excess debris caused by the polish process. Remove the tape you added before polishing and wipe your phone. It doesn't need to take more than a minute or two to do thoroughly, but you may be impressed how much nicer your phone looks once you've wiped away the excess muck.
   
   
   • You should wipe your screen regularly. Twice a day may sound like a lot, but it only takes a second, and will ensure your screen stays healthy.

Using Magic Eraser or Pencil Eraser

1. Understand the risks. This method may strip the oleophobic coating of your phone, which is the coating that protects all modern smartphone screens and makes them scratch-resistant.^[3]
   
   • Only use this method if you plan to replace the oleophobic coating or install a screen protector afterwards.
2. Prepare your eraser. This method will only be effective against minor scratches.
   
   
   • If you're using a Magic Eraser, be sure to wet the sponge to soften the abrasiveness. Squeeze out excess water.
   • If you're using a pencil eraser, be sure you're using a new eraser without any graphite markings.
3. Using the eraser, gently scrub your screen in small circles. Continue this until the scratches lessen or disappear. Results can take up to a minute of scrubbing.
   
   
   • This method will only work for minor, surface-level scratches.
   • This may lessen the appearance of deeper scratches, but it may not remove them entirely.
4. Wipe your screen clean. Make sure there is no leftover residue or eraser shavings. The scratches on your phone screen should be improved.
   
   • Be sure to apply a new oleophobic coating or install a screen protector.

Preventing Scratches

1. Purchase a screen protector.^[4] Cellphones have never been so fragile and prone to scratching as they are today. Screen protectors are commonplace, and you should invest in one if you're the slightest bit worried about damaging your phone. Common phone protectors aren't generally too expensive, and they'll be much more affordable than replacing your screen or phone if the damage is bad enough. Higher-end protectors are virtually unbreakable, while affordable brands will at least take damage so your phone proper won't have to.
   
   • Between a plastic screen protector and tempered glass protector, you are better off investing in the latter.^[5] Tempered glass protectors offer better durability, visibility, and comfortable feel.^[6]
   • Applying a screen protector will give additional protection to your device.
2. Wipe your screen regularly. Small scratches can occur on your screen if you leave excess debris on your screen. Wiping your screen clean with a microfiber or silk cloth a couple times per day will keep your phone screen looking its best. Wiping your screen is especially useful if your phone is a touchscreen, as built-up oils and fingerprints can smudge the screen and blur it up.
   
   • Using clothes fabric like a shirt sleeve or even a dishcloth can also work as screen wipers, although ideally you'll want the smoothness of silk or microfiber when it comes to maintaining your screen.
3. Stow your phone somewhere safe. Most of the time your phone is scratched or damaged, you'll be on the go somewhere. It's important to consider where scratches come from and how they're most likely to be made. Put your phone in a separate pocket than your keys or coins. If possible, place your phone in a zip-up pocket to prevent it falling out accidentally.
   
   • Don't put your phone in your back pocket. On top of risking cracking if you sit down on it, there have been reports of it causing nerve problems due to the pressure it creates on your backside.

What Are Some Best Practices for Removing Scratches from a Phone Screen?

Video

Tips

• If your phone scratch is significant enough or you don't have the time to fix it yourself, you can consult a professional. However, replacing a phone screen can be expensive.
• While you should be able to tell whether your screen is glass or plastic based on the difference in touch, looking up the model of phone you have (either online or via your user manual) should give indication as to what material you should use.^[7]
• There are new and upcoming types of phones branded as "self-healing" devices. The plastic in these phones will repair moderate scratches on their own. If you're particularly scratch-prone and like to keep your devices in peak condition, you may want to consider a self-healing model for your next phone purchase.^[8]

Warnings

• If you choose to use a heavy-duty polish, you may end up scrubbing off part of the screen coating as well. Screen coating (such as an oleophobic coating) is there to reduce friction and increase comfort while using the device. Keep this in mind and weigh the pros and cons of polishing your screen.

Related wikiHows

• Remove the Scratches from the Back of an iPod
• Fix a Scratch on an LCD Screen
• Avoid Cell Phone Scratches

References

• Videos provided by Techmagnet

Quick Summary

1. ↑ https://www.electronicproducts.com/5-ways-to-remove-scratches-from-your-phone-including-eggs-baby-powder-and-toothpaste/
2. ↑ https://www.electronicproducts.com/5-ways-to-remove-scratches-from-your-phone-including-eggs-baby-powder-and-toothpaste/
3. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cE5x9igA4ds
4. ↑ [v162087_b01]. 10 February 2022.
5. ↑ [v162087_b01]. 10 February 2022.
6. ↑ https://gadgetstouse.com/gadget-tech/why-tempered-glass-is-better/25427
7. ↑ https://www.androidauthority.com/build-materials-metal-vs-glass-vs-plastic-617553/
8. ↑ https://www.cnn.com/2015/06/25/tech/self-healing-plastic/

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How to Put a Bandaid on Your Fingertip

Fingertips can be awkward to bandage. Bandages can slip off or they're bulky, which makes it challenging to use the finger. Fortunately, you can easily modify a standard strip bandage and wrap it comfortably around your fingertip. If you frequently injure your fingertips, buy fingertip bandages, which are shaped like an hourglass. These wrap around and over your fingertip to give your finger extra support.

Steps

Using a Strip Bandage

1. Rinse the fingertip and pat it dry. Hold your fingertip under clean running water to remove dirt and slow the bleeding. Then, press your finger on a clean cotton or gauze pad to dry it before putting on the bandage. If the fingertip is still bleeding a lot, apply pressure with the pad to stop the bleeding.^[1]
   
   • There's no need to wash your fingertip with soapy water because the soap might irritate the wound.
2. Remove a strip bandage from its outer packaging. Peel apart the outer packaging and take the bandage out. Leave the plastic strips that cover the adhesive on the bandage for now.^[2]
   
3. Cut a lengthwise slit down the center of each adhesive end. Hold the center of the bandage and use scissors to cut a slit in the middle of each end. Stop cutting before you reach the gauze center of the bandage. You're not trying to shorten the bandage. Instead, the slits make it easier to wrap around your fingertip.^[3]
   
   • Slicing the bandage ends makes it easier to wrap around your fingertip since you can bend and overlap them.
4. Peel off the plastic strips and press the center of the bandage on your wound. Slowly pull off the plastic that's covering the adhesive on both ends of the bandage. Then, press the white center of the bandage directly onto the cut on your fingertip.^[4]
   
   • The bandage should stick lightly to your fingertip at this point. Now you can secure the ends to the rest of your finger.
5. Fold the top ends of the bandage over your fingernail so they crisscross. Take the top thin portion of an adhesive end and bring it over your fingernail. Repeat this for the other side of the bandage so the top strips form an X across your fingernail.^[5]
   
   • Wrapping the ends crosswise prevents the bandage from slipping off of your fingertip.
6. Bring the bottom ends of the bandage down onto your finger. Grasp 1 of the thin bottom ends of the bandage and bring it down across the front of your finger. Do this with the other end and bring it in the opposite direction so it also makes an X.^[6]
   
   • Weaving the ends across each other helps them stay in place and reduces the bulk of the bandage around your fingertip so it's more comfortable to wear.

Applying a Fingertip Bandage

1. Clean your fingertip under cool water and pat it dry. You don't want to bandage your fingertip if there's dirt in the wound so hold your finger under cool running water. Then, place it against a clean cotton or gauze pad. Press firmly if your fingertip is still bleeding since the pressure can make the bleeding stop.^[7]
   
   • You don't need to use soap, which might irritate your skin.
2. Open a new fingertip bandage and peel off 1 of the plastic coverings. Take a new fingertip bandage and pull apart the outer covering. Then, peel away just 1 of the plastic coverings that's protecting the adhesive of the bandage.^[8]
   
   • Fingertip bandages are shaped like an hourglass, which makes them easy to fold over the tip of your finger.
3. Place your fingernail onto the bottom half of the bandage so it's centered. Before you unpeel the other plastic cover, lay your fingernail on the bandage's gauze center. Position your fingertip so it's near the bottom of the bandage.^[9]
   
   • This allows you to fold the bandage over your fingertip so the gauze covers the wound.
4. Wrap the bottom onto your fingertip and peel off the other cover. Bring the bottom corner of the bandage that has the adhesive exposed over onto your fingertip and press it in place. This secures the bandage so you can pull off the plastic covering from the other side of the bandage.^[10]
   
   • Although you could pull both of the plastic coverings off at the same time, it might make it harder to handle the sticky bandage.
5. Bring the other corner onto your fingertip and fold the top onto your finger. Wrap the other corner over onto your fingertip and press it firmly in place so the bottom half of the bandage is secure. Take the top half of the bandage and fold it over onto your fingertip so the gauze covers the wound.^[11]
   
   • The top corners of the bandage should still be sticking out once you've folded the bandage over.
6. Wrap the exposed wings onto your fingertip to secure the bandage. Take each of the corners with adhesive and bring them in towards the center of your fingernail. Press each in place so the bandage fits snugly on your finger.^[12]
   
   • The bandage won't slide around because it's anchored to your finger with the corners of the fingertip bandage.

Video

Tips

• Speed up healing by applying a thin layer of antibiotic ointment or petroleum jelly over the cut before you cover it with the bandage.

Warnings

• Don’t apply too much pressure when you secure the bandage. Ensure that the bandage is snug against your fingertip, but not so snug that it’s cutting off circulation.
• If you suspect that the cut on your fingertip is deep, you can't move your finger, or you think an object might be stuck in the tissue, contact your doctor immediately.^[13]

References

Quick Summary

1. ↑ https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content?contenttypeid=1&contentid=2978
2. ↑ https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/bleeding.html
3. ↑ https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/injured-skin/burns/treat-minor-cuts
4. ↑ https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/steri-strip-butterfly-bandage
5. ↑ https://www.healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/injuries-emergencies/Pages/Treating-Cuts.aspx
6. ↑ https://youtu.be/djXPpAXgZsQ?t=9
7. ↑ https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/bleeding.html
8. ↑ https://www.ucihealth.org/blog/2018/10/wound-care
9. ↑ https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/selfcare-instructions/lacerations-liquid-bandage
10. ↑ https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/cuts-sheet.html
11. ↑ https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/cuts-sheet.html
12. ↑ https://health.clevelandclinic.org/handling-injuries-from-small-cuts-to-serious-wounds
13. ↑ https://www.healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/injuries-emergencies/Pages/Treating-Cuts.aspx

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How to Be Happy Being Yourself

It’s easy to wish you looked like or acted like someone else, or had the cushy job or great boyfriend that someone else has. No matter who you are, you can learn to be happy and fulfilled with your life. Take time to appreciate your talents and characteristics while forming a healthy body image and self-esteem. Focus on the positive aspects of your job, hobbies, and lifestyle.^[1] Fostering strong and close relationships can help you feel more satisfied and confident in your lifestyle.

Steps

Loving Who You Are

1. Identify what makes you unique and wonderful. Recognizing what you love about yourself first will make you much more comfortable in your own skin. Start by making a list of all of the things you love about yourself, whether it's your free spirit, your work ethic, or your shiny hair.^[2]
   
   • Find at least 10 things you like about yourself. Think about your talents, accomplishments, or characteristics.
   • Appreciate what makes you unique. Perhaps you speak four languages, can walk on your hands, or can instantly make new friends. Not everyone can do that, but you can!
   • Redirect negative thoughts into positive ones. For example, instead of thinking “I’m not pretty enough,” say “I look great today!”
2. Practice gratitude in your daily life. Actively giving thanks helps you recognize the wonderful people, things, and opportunities in your life. Make a daily habit of giving thanks to those you love. Appreciate your opportunities, strengths, skills, and blessings.^[3]
   
   • Keep a gratitude journal and write everything that you’re thankful for. You might include your family, friends, home, hobbies, opportunities, or health. Add 1 thing to this journal every day. If you’re feeling upset or down, try reading through the journal to cheer you up.
   • Always say thank you, whether you're thanking your local barista for an amazing cup of coffee or your father for always being there for you.
3. Fill your life with laughter. Always leave some room for laughter in your daily life. No matter how dire your life may seem at a given moment, never forget to take a break to laugh. You'll feel better in both the short-term and the long-term.^[4]
   
   • Be just plain silly. Tell a corny joke, make a bad pun, or just dance around like a fool. Why not?
   • Laugh at your mistakes. This can defuse the situation and help you realize that things aren’t so bad.
   • Watch a comedy or a comedian. This will make you laugh and can cheer you up.
   • Be around people who love to laugh. Laughter is contagious!
4. Come to terms with your flaws. Confidence is the key to happiness, but everyone has flaws and weaknesses. Instead of obsessing over your perceived flaws, embrace them. If you want, ask yourself what you can do to improve yourself in this regard.^[5]
   
   • Make a list of things you want to work on. Make manageable goals to improve. If you hate that you’re always forgetting things, try getting a planner or download a calendar app. Set alarms for when you need to do something.
   • Learn to live with some of your flaws. Perhaps you won’t ever get over your clumsiness, but that’s okay! Try to laugh when you stumble or brush it off as though it doesn’t matter.
   • Forgive yourself. Let's face it: we've all done something we're less than proud of. Whatever you did, you should recognize that it was wrong and understand why you did it, but after that, it's time to let it go.

Creating a Healthy Body Image

1. Identify what you love about your body. Feeling good about your body can go a long way in helping you be happy with who you are. Look at yourself and appreciate your best features.^[6]
   
   • You may not love everything about your face, but you should be able to pick 1 or 2 things, like your eyes or your lips, that stand out. When you look at yourself, remind yourself how great this part of you looks.
   • Remind yourself what your body is capable of. Try to love your body for its ability to sing, dance, imagine, or jump.
2. Exercise. Exercise can boost your confidence and your mood, even if you’re not looking to lose weight or become stronger. Just working out for 30 minutes 2-3 times a week can increase your energy and confidence. Find what type of workout works for you and stick with it.^[7]
   
   • Mindful exercises, like yoga or tai chi, can give you a sense of calm and help you meditate about your body.
   • Team sports, like soccer or softball, are tons of fun. They add an important social element to your exercise that can help you feel more fulfilled.
   • Running, biking, swimming, or even just taking a walk can help you clear your mind while helping you become healthy.^[8]
3. Eat healthy foods to improve your mood. Improving your diet can help your mind and body. Having a good balance between fruits and veggies, proteins, and carbs can help you feel more in tune with your body.^[9]
   
   • Foods high in fiber and omega 3-fatty acids can improve your mood and help you feel happier. These include foods like whole wheat bread, brown rice, fish, green vegetables, and walnuts.^[10]
   • Cook your own food from scratch instead of buying premade foods. Cooking can help you make healthier decisions, and you'll get more satisfaction from your meal.
   • It's okay to indulge in the occasional burger or ice cream, but having too many processed or fatty foods will make you feel tired or sluggish.
4. Create a wardrobe that makes you look and feel good. Being happy with what you're wearing can make or break how you feel about your appearance. If your clothes are dirty, don't fit well, or just don't look right, it can affect your mood and self-esteem. Choose a style that reflects your unique personality.^[11]
   
   • Choose clothing that is comfortable for your body. Don’t try to wear clothing that is too big or too small.
   • Have a few key items that you adore. Having a favorite pair of jeans, a beautiful knitted sweater, or a trendy scarf can really help you feel good about how you look.
   • Jewelry, belts, scarves, and shoes can really pull an outfit together. If you’re missing that extra touch, try adding an accessory to it.

Fostering a Joyful Lifestyle

1. Focus on the positive aspects of your job. Sure, some of your work may be frustrating or even boring, but pick a few things you love about your job, whether it's interacting with clients or customers, learning new things, or having the opportunity to travel occasionally.
   
   • If you’re struggling at work, reframe how you approach your job. Personalize your workspace with pictures or plants. Avoid taking on extra projects if you’re overworked.
   • Take the time to get to know and appreciate the people you work with. You may feel like you have nothing in common, but if you make the extra effort to be friendly, it will make you much more eager to wake up to go to work.
   • Appreciate what your job can do for you. On hard days, remember that your job allows you to put food on the table.
2. Pursue hobbies and activities that interest you.^[12] Hobbies and interests outside of work give you something to look forward to. This helps you become a more well-rounded and interesting person. If you don’t have any hobbies currently, you might:^[13]
   
   • Develop your artistic side. Try your hand at writing a poem, a song, or painting. You don't have to be great at it, but you can have fun in the process.
   • Learn a new language. This will make you feel more cultured and it can help you find a great job.
   • Join a team sport. Not only will you get a great workout, but you can make amazing friends.
   • Take an evening class. Learn something that you’re interested in, such as coding, woodworking, or ancient mythology.
   • • Baking or cooking isn't the first type of self-care that comes to mind for most people, possibly because cooking takes organization and work. But studies show that cooking for yourself stimulates positive brain chemicals!
3. Set a routine that works for you.^[14] A routine allows you to organize your life in a way that make every day activities pass in a breeze. If you feel stressed, hurried, or bored at certain points of your day, try shaking things up. Switch around your routine until you find something that works.^[15]
   
   • Don't rush around in the morning. Give yourself enough time to eat a healthy breakfast and drive to work to arrive a few minutes early. Set your clothes out the night before or pack all of your lunches at the beginning of the week.
   • Even if your day is super-packed, make some time for yourself. Read a book during your lunch break, watch your favorite show before you go to bed, or wake up early enough to meditate.
   • Get plenty of rest. Go to bed and wake up at around the same time every day so your body develops a routine. This can help you feel more rested in the morning.
4. Try new experiences. Experiences, and not material items, are the key to happiness. Trying new experiences can help you step outside of your comfort zone while giving you many interesting and unique memories.^[16]
   
   • Explore your surroundings and natural environments. Take a hike, go rafting, or try rock climbing.
   • Take a weekend trip, perhaps to a nearby city, mountain, or beach. Set aside 1 week a year for a much bigger trip to see your family or to visit a somewhere new, like New York City or the Grand Canyon.
   • Attend concerts, museum openings, or new movies in your area. This can help develop your mind and expose you to new experiences in your own town.
5. Create a clean and comfortable living space. Feeling safe, comfortable, and at peace in your own living space can make the difference between being happy and being cooped up. Decorate your home in a way that makes you cheerful or energetic.
   
   • Clean up any clutter. Put away things where they belong, and avoid adding too much furniture to an area. Keeping an open, light room can go a long way in creating a happy space.
   • Filling your home with photos of your loved ones, souvenirs from your favorite vacations, or paintings of your favorite spots can help remind you of what makes you happy.
   • Boost your mood at home by painting your walls light or bright colors, like soft blue, lavender, or yellow.
6. Make changes if you’re not happy with your routine or lifestyle. If you’re truly unhappy with an aspect of your life, you may have the power to change it. Take the initiative to move on and start something new.^[17]
   
   • If you hate your job so much that it is causing stress or anxiety, it may be time to find a new job.
   • Maybe you loved training for marathons for the past decade, but suddenly you dread all of your training runs. Spice things up by finding a new way to work out or spend your time.
   • If you feel stuck, bored, or isolated in your town, consider moving or take a vacation to somewhere new.

Establishing a Strong Social Network

1. Find supportive, positive friends. Having a network of close friends is one the best ways to become happy with yourself in the long run. Having the right friends can improve your self-esteem, make you feel needed, and boost your self-confidence.^[18]
   
   • Treasure old friendships. Maintain these relationships with frequent visits, emails, phone calls, or skype sessions.
   • If you've met someone who you really click with, don't be afraid to ask them on a coffee date to see if you can get to know each other better.
   • Dump your toxic friends. If you have a friend who makes you feel terrible about yourself or is so negative that they manage to ruin your mood every time you hang out, it may be time to let them go.
2. Appreciate your family. In many cases, nobody has done more for you or knows you better than your parents or siblings. Whether you're off at college, living in a different country, or sharing a house with your family members, it's important to be happy with who they are in order to be truly happy being yourself.^[19]
   
   • If you have a good relationship with your parents, take time to talk to them often, and tell them you love them. Don’t forget to thank them!
   • Treat your siblings well. Even if you sometimes you feel like you and your sibling live on different planets, you still share a common bond of knowing what it's like to grow up in the same place with the same parents.
   • Even if you don’t have a strong relationship with your biological family, you can appreciate those who are like family in your life. Consider who you might consider to be your family, and let them know how you feel.
3. Participate in your community. Feeling involved in your neighborhood, city, religion, school, or other community group can make you feel like you belong to something bigger. This can help you create long-lasting relationships and find interesting things to do.^[20]
   
   • Introduce yourself to your neighbors. Your neighbors will not only make you feel involved in where you live, but they could end up being your best friends.
   • Attend town hall meetings, book clubs on your streets, concerts by local musicians, volunteer park clean-up days, or any other events that make you feel involved in local culture or politics.
   • Volunteering can give you a deep sense of fulfillment and help you meet others in your community. Look for organizations and causes you believe in. You might raise money for the homeless or build houses for low-income families.^[21]
4. Foster healthy romantic relationships. Romance can be very fulfilling, but it is important to make sure that your relationships are founded on love, trust, and strong communication. A toxic romantic entanglement can cause significant stress and unhappiness.^[22]
   
   • If you have a great significant other, communicate openly with each other on a daily basis. Make sure that both partners are fulfilled and satisfied with the relationship.
   • If you're single and dating lots of people, have fun with it. Going on date after date may get frustrating, but if you stay positive, you're more likely to find the right person.
   • If you're single and not looking, that's okay too! If you're not at a point in your life where you want to date anyone, be happy with who you are and the decisions you're making.
5. Learn to forgive. You won't be able to fully enjoy your relationships if you're holding a grudge or stuck in the past. Learning to forgive the people you love for their past mistakes is the only way to move forward in your relationships.
   
   • If someone has really hurt you, try looking at it from their perspective. Your friend may have hurt you with the best intentions, or might not have been thinking clearly.
   • Learn to accept an apology. If your friend, mother, or significant other is truly sincere and sorry about something, learn to accept an apology. Try to move on as best you can.
   • If you hurt the other person, say you're sorry too.

What Are Some Tips for Becoming More Happy With Yourself and Who You Are?

Reader Videos

Tips

• Do something that you love at least once a day, whether it be listening to a song that you love, or dancing in your underwear in your bedroom.
• Try helping others. There is nothing like helping someone else to help improve your self-confidence and to make you realize how lucky you are.
• Don't compare yourself to other people. This will only make you frustrated. Instead of focusing on what others have, focus on what makes you who you are.

Warnings

• If you've tried everything and you still feel deeply unhappy with who you are, you may be suffering from depression and should seek professional help.

References

__

Quick Summary

1. ↑ [v161309_b02]. 18 March 2020.
2. ↑ https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/types-of-mental-health-problems/self-esteem/about-self-esteem/#.WuiCA5ch2Uk
3. ↑ https://www.health.harvard.edu/healthbeat/giving-thanks-can-make-you-happier
4. ↑ https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/stress-anxiety-depression/feel-better-and-happy/
5. ↑ https://psychcentral.com/lib/ways-to-accept-yourself
6. ↑ https://uhs.berkeley.edu/sites/default/files/bewell_tenstepsbodyimage.pdf
7. ↑ https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/stress-anxiety-depression/feel-better-and-happy/
8. ↑ [v161309_b02]. 18 March 2020.
9. ↑ https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/stress-anxiety-depression/feel-better-and-happy/
10. ↑ https://this.deakin.edu.au/lifestyle/how-to-eat-your-way-to-happiness
11. ↑ https://uhs.berkeley.edu/sites/default/files/bewell_tenstepsbodyimage.pdf
12. ↑ [v161309_b02]. 18 March 2020.
13. ↑ https://www.nytimes.com/2018/05/10/smarter-living/the-case-for-hobbies-ideas.html
14. ↑ [v161309_b02]. 18 March 2020.
15. ↑ https://www.northshore.org/healthy-you/how-to-start-a-new-routine-and-stick-to-it/
16. ↑ https://rightasrain.uwmedicine.org/well/health/try-something-new
17. ↑ [v161309_b02]. 18 March 2020.
18. ↑ https://www.apa.org/topics/stress/manage-social-support
19. ↑ https://www.bmj.com/content/337/bmj.a2781
20. ↑ https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2017/04/over-nearly-80-years-harvard-study-has-been-showing-how-to-live-a-healthy-and-happy-life/
21. ↑ https://www.helpguide.org/articles/healthy-living/volunteering-and-its-surprising-benefits.htm
22. ↑ https://www.apa.org/helpcenter/healthy-relationships.aspx

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