Q: Marley twists are made with a certain type of hair extension packaged and marketed as "Marley hair." You'll want to get extensions labeled for this hair style since they will usually come in pre-measured sections, which can make the styling process much easier and smoother. The specific brand and other qualities are a matter of personal preference. Everyone has their own favorites, but if you want a recommendation, talk to someone who has done this style before and ask for her opinion. Note that most affordable hair extensions are made from synthetic hair, but most synthetic hair can be treated as you treat natural hair, making it easy to care for. Nonetheless, before you buy your extensions, it is a good idea to look at the "care" instructions on the back of the package to verify that there are no peculiarities to watch out for. If hair extensions sometimes cause you irritation or if you have never used hair extensions and tend to have a sensitive scalp, you should consider soaking or spraying the extensions with a solution of water and apple cider vinegar. Dilute 1/2 cup (125 ml) apple cider vinegar with 2 cups (500 ml) water. Soak the hair in this solution for 1 or 2 minutes. Let it dry completely before use. Soaking the extensions in this manner can help remove the alkaline base. This base has been known to cause allergic reactions and produce such side effects as bumps, irritation, and itchiness. Before you install the twists, you should give your hair a thorough washing with shampoo and a deep conditioning with a strong conditioner. Make sure that your hair is completely dry before continuing further. Most women find that blow drying their hair will make it less frizzy than letting it air dry, especially if you use a diffuser. Do whatever works best for your hair, however. You want your hair to be completely dry, but with as little frizz as possible. Comb out your hair with a wide-tooth comb. If necessary, apply a detangler product to remove any kinks or knots. There is some debate on whether or not you should use hair oil at this stage. Generally, the verdict is "no." Your hair should be fairly straight but not slippery. Moreover, the gel you apply later on in the process will help smooth out any frizzy strands of hair as you work.
A: Pick out the right extensions. Pre-soak and dry the extensions. Wash and dry your hair. Comb and detangle.

Q: Your partner should accept you for who you are and your parents may not be able to see beyond the age difference. Once your parents see that your relationship is healthy and that you are a better person for it, it will be easier for them to see beyond the age gap. It's easy to get swept up in the allure of dating someone older or younger than you. Look ahead and see if the age difference will affect you in any way. Your parents may be fearful that the age gap may widen as your relationship continues. A difference in age may be more of a big deal if you are younger. Your parents may be fearful that you are growing up too soon or that an older partner is taking advantage of you. A big age gap if you're a minor and your partner isn't may also be illegal. Take their perspective into account when continuing your relationship. If your partner is your professor or boss, it's prudent to know the rules. Your parents may rest easier knowing that everyone is protected from any legal actions. Understand that being in a teacher-pupil relationship can get the teacher fired and, depending on your age, even jailed. This is one relationship that is better to be put on hold - for both of you. If you truly love each other, you can wait until both of you are adults, and you have graduated.
A: Ask yourself if you feel like yourself around your partner. Keep perspective. Understand any power dynamics.

Q: Not all lip balms are created equal. When selecting a product to apply to your lips, make sure you choose a product with the proper ingredients to heal your lips. Look for ingredients like cocoa butter, Vitamins A and E, petrolatum, and dimethicone. Products without these ingredients might not do much to heal lips and could even make symptoms worse. Balms that include alpha-hydroxy acid can soothe and exfoliate chapped lips. This is an especially good ingredient to look for if you want something you can apply as a rub. Apply by gently adding the products to the lips, brushing the lips with a toothbrush to remove flakes, and then wiping off the balm. Petroleum and beeswax are also good ingredients to look for when seeking out lip balm. Responses to such products tend to vary from person-to-person, however, so you might have to try a few different products before you find one that works for you. Any lip balm you choose should always be re-applied before you head out into harsh weather. Sunscreen can help protect lips that are already dried and cracked from further damage outside. Look for a sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher for optimal protection. You should be able to find such a product in most drugstores and supermarkets. Always apply a lip balm as protection underneath sunscreen. Apply sunscreen that has broad spectrum cover for UVA and UVB that is water resistant. If you're looking for a more natural route, there are a variety of home remedies you can try that may improve your cracked, dry lips. Natural oils, like coconut oil and mustard oil, can moisturize dry lips. Natural oils tend to work best when cracked lips are the result of poor weather conditions. Cucumbers can cool and soothe lips. Simply eating cucumber, and applying the juices to the lips, can help. Aloe vera, which can be purchased in cream or gel form from most drug stores, is a great option for cracked lips. You can also purchase an aloe vera plant and apply the juice from the leaves to your lips. Be aware that the taste of aloe vera is sometimes unpleasant. Make sure not to get any in your mouth while applying it to your lips. Milk cream softens skin throughout the body, including the lips. Apply cream to the lips and leave on for 10 minutes. Rub the cream away from the lips with a cotton ball dipped in lukewarm water. Repeat as needed until lips heal. If your cracked lips are severe and do not improve with over-the-counter treatments, you might need to see a doctor about prescription medication. If your lips become inflamed and feel sore, talk to your doctor. Inflammation is usually benign and the result of mild irritation, but it can also be a sign of a bacterial infection. Antifungal and antibiotic creams, such as hydrocortisone creams, can be used to treat cracked lips in the event of an infection. Your doctor will prescribe you a cream if she thinks it is necessary. Always ask a doctor about potential side effects and proper use before starting a new medication. Steroid creams are not designed for long-term use, as this can cause thinning of the skin, discoloration, and other adverse side effects. Only apply in the recommended doses and only for as long as your doctor advises.
A:
Choose the right lip balm. Try sunscreen. Try home remedies. Ask your doctor about an antibiotic or antifungal cream.