Health, strength and beauty of hair depends primarily on its nerve vigor and the good circulation of the oily scalp secretion which gives it gloss and luster. Beauty is not so much a matter of color where hair is concerned. If your hair has a fine glow, a rich sheen, is thick and long, it will be beautiful irrespective of its pigmentation. Hair often makes an otherwise plain person beautiful. And practically every woman, if she cares to make the effort, may have beautiful hair.

SOME HAIR HINTS

If you have the least suspicion of a curl in your hair, brushing around rather than straight will bring it out. Do not worry if you shed your hair. It is natural for the hair to shed — and to keep right on growing in again. Only see to it that the ingrowth is equal to the loss by shedding. No young girl should use a rat. Metal combs should be tabooed. Keep the hairbrush you use for dandruff stiff, the “polishing” brush may be softer. Use a hair net that matches your own hair color, and do not get too small a one. Remove snarls and tangles in the hair gently, with fingers, before brushing. The three-weekly or monthly shampoo is a good rule. If you wash your hair too often, it will turn dry and brittle and change color.

The hair should never be worn “done up” constantly. This is injurious because every part of the hair should have frequent air and sun baths. For normal shampoo employ Castile, tar or vegetable soaps, and Green soap for oily hair. A good egg shampoo may be made of an egg, thoroughly beaten, one tablespoon alcohol, four ounces bay rum, a pinch of borax, and four ounces of Castile soap mixed in a pint of hot water, to be used when cool.

Hair that is blonde or ruddy, as well as gray hair, may be washed with Castile soap jelly plus a quarter-teaspoonful of borax. Always comb and brush thoroughly, with finger-tip massage. After shampooing is the best time for scalp massage, hair pulling and skin loosening.

DRY SHAMPOO AND SCALP MASSAGE

The scalp and hair should be cleansed between shampoos. For this purpose the “dry shampoo” is necessary. It is actually a form of scalp massage. Preparations of orris, corn meal and other dry shampoo powders are not recommended. They stick, and it is hard to get them out of the hair. A vigorous rubbing of the scalp after the hair has been parted, using a small piece of muslin over the tip of the finger, is best. Hot and cold applications are good, with or without shampoo, especially if the hair is falling. Remember that the hair should not be “hot-air” dried. The hot-air cone used for the purpose in hairdressing establishments destroys the hair. Human hair should always be dried by hand.

Scalp massage makes the hair grow and prevents many hair troubles. A five-minute finger-tip mas- sage, night and morning, is the one ounce of prevention worth a pound of cure. The electrical massage by a professional (after a shampoo), the violet ray, and the rubber-disk vibrator are all excellent for the hair. They strengthen and stimulate.

HAIR TONICS

Massage is the first and best hair tonic. Though a good scalp lotion may stimulate circulation, massage always does so more directly. In general it will be wise to remember that tonics are meant for specific purposes of cure for hair disorders, rather than for common use. A little refined beef marrow rubbed gently into the hair roots is a good natural tonic (though an old-fashioned one) and together with plenty of fresh air and sunshine, does more for the hair than all the compounded tonics and “restorers” marketed. Every woman can keep her hair in good condition if she chooses to. If she cannot give it attention in the morning she shoulcf do so at night.

HAIR TROUBLES

Most hair troubles could be prevented in the start by ordinary good care of the hair, and the maintenance of the state of general good health. Of course, various diseases affect the hair: fever dries it out and makes it fall; syphilis and other sex diseases poison and destroy it. Some skin diseases have the same effect. In general, if you are healthy, broadly speaking, your hair will be healthy too.

Dandruff—What we have to deal with in dandruff is a horny layer cast off by the scalp. This layer thickens, closes the pores, diminishes the hair’s oil supply, and prevents the perspiration glands from getting rid of waste. Soon the hair loses tone and color, and is covered with whitish powder. Then it starts to itch and fall. In an advanced state of the disease, the hair falls out, and blood crusts form on the scalp as a result of scratching. Digestive disorders, toxic elements in the blood or local irritation may cause dandruff, and it is communicable.

Daily care of the scalp, massage and brushing, if persisted in when the disorder first appears, are very beneficial. The crude oil massage of the scalp, not the hair, is excellent and often effects a cure. A massage every night, using vaseline or olive oil, together with repeated shampoos, also helps to do away with dandruff. Although pomades in general should be avoided, a pomade with a precipitated sulphur base, mixed with glycerine, rose-water, lanoline, and soap, or a sulphur ointment or cream kills the dandruff germ.

There is an “oily dandruff,” also, though the disease is most commonly a dry scalp one. Shampoo with tincture of Green soap should cure this type of the disease in about a week’s time. If you have dandruff, observe a regular diet, and stick as much as possible to milk and fresh fruit.

Falling Hair.—An acid condition of the blood encourages the hair to fall. Correct it and you will have removed the cause of your complaint. The use of the violet ray and the vibrator, which hold down the tendency to an oily scalp, is also valuable for hair treatment in this connection. So, too, are hot and cold applications.

HAIR DISEASES WHICH SHOULD NOT OCCUR

Favus, the development of yellow scalp crusts, accompanied by severe itching, bald spots and a musty odor, is a dirt disease, hence inexcusable in a woman, unless as a result of infection. To remove it the scalp must be soaked in olive oil for a few days, carbolic acid being mixed with it in a weak solution, the hair pulled out of the most infected areas, the crusts removed, and the whole scalp shampooed with an antiseptic soap.

Ringworm is usually a gift of those evil things, the “common property” comb and brush, or the patent hair clipper. Rubbing with sulphur ointment, washing with bichloride soap, or painting with iodine, to precede the application of a cleansing ointment, is the treatment. It is dangerous since it may result in baldness.

Head lice (which may be cured by saturating the hair with kerosene or crude petroleum at night, wrapping in a towel to retain fumes, and following by antiseptic soap shampoo) is a most disgusting trouble, and unless communicated cannot occur except as a result of neglect and uncleanliness. The possibility of contagion constitutes the menace of all three of these diseases.

Stones have been worn by both women and men since prehistoric times. Just as in the jewelry of modern times, beautiful stones, rare and colorful, are most often the dominant feature of a piece with a metallic setting for ornamentation.

The stones used in the crafting of fine jewelry are generally divided into two classes- precious stones and semi-precious stones.

These terms are used heavily in the commercial world of jewelry when considering variety and value. While artistic merits are only a matter of opinion, the value of a stone is what it will bring in the marketplace. It should also be mentioned that many people, collectors and general consumers alike, prefer the rare to the beautiful.

These stones are simply rocks (minerals) taken from the earth, and after they have been enhanced by the artisans cutting and polishing, the finest and rarest of them are what we call gems.

Precious Stones

The most precious stones are the diamonds, emeralds, rubies and sapphires. The pearl is oftentimes classed with precious stones. Although strictly speaking while it is not a stone it holds an esteemed place in jewelry.

Semi-Precious Stones

A large number of stones used in jewelry are known as semi-precious; the most important ones are as follow: amethyst, lapis-lazuli, turquoise, aquamarine, topaz, moonstone, peridot, opal, tourmaline, zircon, chrysoberyl, alexandrite. Others of less importance although much used are: chrysoprase, jade, garnet, agate, azurite, malachite, bloodstone, coral, carnelian and many others. These stones while comparatively common and inexpensive are indispensable to the worker in jewelry. The variety of colors to be had in these stones make it possible to produce unusual designs of artistic merit and to adapt them to the personality and costume of the wearer. For more detailed information regarding gem stones the reader is referred to “Gem Stones” by G.F. Herbert Smith, also “The Curious Lore of Precious Stones,” by George Frederick Kunz.

Celebrities have been choosing their favourite catwalk fashions for the read carpet. Check out the designer collections for this season and what some of the stars have already chosen:

The Chloe collection uses the aesthetics of vintage mixed with her own style. Milla Jovoch and Kate Hudson are two stars that have chosen from the Chloe collection.

The Lanvin collection was designed with the stars in mind. It’s glamourous and perfect for the female stars.

The Balenciaga collection is a very wearable collection, adding comfort to fashion. Actresses wearing this collection will be fashionable but not over done.

The Proenz Schouler collection is full of beautiful prints, with a fabulous chiffon gowns. This is definately a Nicole Kidman type of gown and you just might see her wearing one on the red carpet.

The Ralph Lauren spring collection is ultra feminine. Their satin evening gown collection hints of old hollywood and will make a perfect red carpet addition.

The Rochas collection is elegant and flattering but demure. Audrey Hepburn would certainly be pleased with this collection.

The Aruthur Mendonca collection is simple and elegant with lots of great color choices.

The Temperley London collection has a romantic vintage feel with great colors such as lavender and aqua. They’d be great choices for Renee Zellwger or Nicole Kidman.

The Michael Kors collection is very versatile for the vacationer. It also included gowns with beaded bodices - drop dead gorgeous! Jennifer Lopez chose a Kors gown for the red carpet.

The Carolina Herrera collection is truly a collection with women in mind. Fantastic color choices, terrific event dresses. Definately a choice Sarah Jessica Parker would make.

The Stephen Burrows collection is all about vibrant color. Vivica Fox recently purchased one of his mini dresses.

The Oscar de la Renta collection is strictly for the stars. His designs let you have it all. A perfect Kate Bosworth choice.

The Willow Collection is structured but ultra feminine. She mixed brights with indigo and tan. A whimsical girly collection!

The Gharani Strok collection is full of bold prints. Sexy jungle prints are a very large part of this seasons collection. Lisa Maffia would look great in this collection.

The Jenny Packham collection is a glamours gypsy combination. Floaty dresses with sequins are almost goddess like. Perfect for Sienna Miller.

The Alberta Ferretti collection has focused on volume, made up of light fabrics that look like they float.

The Gucci collection ultra sexy full of decadence and luxury. Egdy but not too edgy.

The Alesandro Dell’Acqua collection is ever so chic! This collection is a perfect match for Natalie Portman.

The Miu Miu collection is bold and bright with several retro 70’s prints appearing in the mini dresses. Chloe Sevigny would look great in this collection.

The Rochas collection is ever so lady like with exceptional contouring. Perfect for Scarlett Johansson.

The Marc Jacobs collection focuses on trend setting. Perfect match for Hilary Swank.

The Jonathan Saunders collection is using print in a new and innovative fashion. A fabulous mix of glamour shapes with heavy prints.

The Matthew Williamson collection uses bold color but still remains ultra feminine. A perfect match for Hally Berry.

This season proves to be a great mix of fashion - bold, glamourous, sexy, and elegant. Something for everyone. You don’t need to be a star to wear these fabulous fashions. Many boutiques sell main stream fashions by these designers. Other manufactures take from the catwalk and re-create similar looks or styles.

What ever your fashion style, your certain to find fashions you love this season!

There is a great chance that you forgot to do some of the most
important cleaning tasks of the spring season. Your bra and
panty drawer, housing some of your most essential lingerie, is a
mess. Although taking the time in the middle of the nice summer
days to clean and organize your intimates does not sound
appealing, it is crucial to management of the unmentionables.

The fall season brings with it loads of end-of-summer and
back-to-school sales. When you have taken a proper inventory of
your bras and panties
, you are in the know when it comes to hitting the sales hard.
The are some basic principles to follow that get missed by many
in the bra and panty world. Getting the most out of your
intimates is not difficult, especially when you are well
informed.

• First things first. Cleaning out your lingerie drawers
  doesn’t just mean putting things in a certain place and making
  the appearance a little neater. Toss out your
  panties! Old panties are not like a worn in pair of blue
  jeans.
• Matching is important. We get used to wearing the same old
  intimates that we find to be most comfortable. We never know
  when we will be sharing them with someone special. It is very
  important to bring in matching bra and panties into your
  lingerie wardrobe.
• Prints versus solids. This can be argued until the wee hours
  of the morning. The answer is: both. Having a large selection of
  styles to choose from allows your mood to accurately pick the
  daily intimates.
• To thine own self be true. Choose intimates that you are
  comfortable wearing. Intimacy is different for everyone, and
  even though lingerie is many times worn for another person, if
  you are not comfortable in the ensemble, you won’t feel sensual.
  Pick intimate apparel that makes you feel like the woman you
  are.
• Exploration is sensual. Although there is a possibility of
  contradicting the previous rule, it is crucial to venture out
  into unfamiliar lingerie worlds. Many times, we get trapped in
  our comfort zones without realizing some of the potentials that
  exist. You might not yet have discovered what your true fetishes
  are, or maybe you are too afraid of social taboos that may
  accompany such lingerie fetishes. Exploring the unfamiliar is
  exciting in its own sense, and more sensual with a friend.

Trust your instincts when you are adding lingerie collections to
your wardrobe. Some sets are for everyday wear, while others are
for those intimate encounters, expected or unexpected. Getting
the most out of lingerie will enhance and complete the setting
that you choose to make special. We only get one chance to make
it right, so plan carefully and use your imagination.

“Come to this fashion-centric venuewww.best-promdress.com for shopping your desired Prom Dress, Evening Gown or Cocktail Dress in any style, color, size or look.”

July 15, 2005. “Can’t you tell you’ve been all over me like a spell” My niece crooned while dressing up for a wedding. Curiously I was about to ask but intelligent as she is, said:”It’s the dress I am wearing”.

I remember ordering the elegant “Winhim” (name of the dress) from: www.best-promdress.com for her with which came a Free pearl set as well. Impressed as I am with their service and product…thought of letting this secret out………… Best-promdress.com is a classic style store for timeless and stunning dresses-in a variety that all women could possibly dream of. It offers chic Prom Dresses, Evening Gowns, Cocktail Dresses & Prom Gowns.

In this unique online shop you can buy all beautiful dresses, you’ve ever seen. Best-promdress.com provide free worldwide delivery on all goods and FREE SHIPPING ON ORDERS OF $300 OR MORE. Sensational! Best-promdress.com has a unique mix of fashion products that online consumers can’t find anywhere else: exclusive collections at accessible and affordable prices. Check out their ‘Special Offers’ for some great deals.

Best-promdress promises to help a woman create a closet of clothes that provides deep satisfaction and makes getting dressed an enjoyable experience. Best-promdress defines a style in ways that will last for generations. Forever the goal of women’s fashion was to show the woman’s status in society and make her as attractive as possible. Best-promdress.com is for all those women who wants to be well and properly dressed on all occasions.

Get the nerve of upbeat fashion and trend to clinch upscale appeal in these fabulous cut to fit dresses at www.best-promdress.com. Now available at your (perfectly manicured) finger tips , at your shopping destination…your discount store-www.best-promdress.com. For queries email at - webmaster@best-promdress.com or call at-1-888-335-6123.

Menopause is a natural occurrence for women and it is something which every woman will face at some point in her life. Fortunately, studies have been done in order to provide herbal treatments and remedies for women going through this stage. Herbal remedies, as controversial as they are, can potentially provide positive effects for women experiencing menopausal symptoms. Here are some common menopausal symptoms and the best form of herbal remedy associated with each:

•Hot Flashes - Hot flashes are one of the most common symptoms for women during menopause. Hot flashes can last up to 6 minutes and can potentially occur several times within one day.

Herbal Remedy - Black Cohosh (also known as squaw root, black snake root or rattle weed) has been studied and is proven as a reputable treatment for hot flashes.

•Insomnia - Many women experiencing menopausal symptoms also have difficulty sleeping. If you suffer from sleeplessness on a regular basis, you probably suffer from chronic insomnia.

Herbal Remedies - Kava (or Kawa) is used throughout the world as a remedy for anxiety and insomnia. Other remedies proven effective for treating insomnia and sleeplessness are Valerian root and HOPS.

•Depression and Mood Swings - Although most people joke about women becoming depressed and moody during menopause, these symptoms are very serious and if not treated properly can become dangerous and harmful.

Herbal Remedy - St. John’s Wart (also known as goat weed) has proven to be an affective antidepressant in reversing the feelings of depression which many menopausal women experience.

•Abnormal Hair Growth - Abnormal hair growth (also called hirsuitism) is perhaps one of the most embarrassing symptoms for women suffering from menopause. Abnormal hair growth can occur anywhere, although above the upper lip is usually a common target.

Herbal Remedy - Saw Palmetto (also known as Serenoa repens or windmill palm) is used for treating men with enlarged prostates as well as for women who are experiencing abnormal hair growth during menopause.

Menopause is a difficult time for every woman, but every woman must face it at some point. Approaching menopause with a positive attitude has been proven to reduce the likeliness of some menopausal symptoms like depression and anxiety. Researching remedies and treatments is the best way to prepare for this stage of your life. This way, when it does happen, you’re aware of what to expect and the best ways to deal with it.

A wedding is a once-in-a-lifetime occasion for many people, although for an increasing number of persons, it has become a several-in-a-lifetime event. In any case, it is still a very special ceremony that binds not only a man and a woman together; today, gay male couples and gay women couples also observe the ceremony to affirm their lifelong commitment to each other. In such ceremonies, the gay wedding ring takes center stage.

Same-sex marriage is still illegal in the majority of U.S. states and in countries all over the world, so what gay couples opt for is to participate in a “commitment ceremony,” where the exchange of gay wedding rings also takes place. A gay wedding ring most often resembles the traditional gold or platinum wedding band. Of course, the couples are free to have the designs or the metal they wish for their gay wedding ring. Gay-related symbols are often engraved on the rings, and various textures and effects are available as well. Irish and Scottish rings, multicolored rings, woven rings - a wealth of options is available.

Homosexual and lesbian couples who have exchanged or are planning to exchange gay wedding rings in commitment or blessing ceremonies include Rosie and Kelly O’Donnell, and actress Sophie Ward and Rena Brannan. British musician Sir Elton John and David Furbish have also talked about getting married as soon as gays are legally allowed to join together in matrimony in Great Britain.

Jewelry designers such as Udi Behr are recognizing the need of “unconventional” couples to affirm their commitment to one another. Behr created a collection of gay wedding rings and gay engagement rings called “Love and Pride” in support of the gay rights movement. Behr, who is himself straight, is a popular designer among celebrities; famous people who buy his work include Sharon Stone and Britney Spears.

As with heterosexual couples, gay couples see their weddings bands as a tangible symbol of their love and commitment to one another. Notwithstanding governmental indifference to or disapproval of their needs and wishes, gay people will go on standing for what they believe is their right. The gay wedding ring, aside from its romantic connotations, has also become a symbol of the large part of homosexual culture in today’s society.

Summers far from over and there is still time to enjoy those gorgeous summer fashions. Here’s our top picks for ” Gotta Have It Summer Fashions “

Every woman should have some big clunky plastic bangles and bracelets in a multitude of colors. These aren’t just fun for the summer they add color and lift your mood during the winter months.

To go with those bangles don’t forget to add a couple of funky purses. Straw and leather bags are very popular this year as are colorful designer bags. No need to have to spend big bucks for Vuiton or Versace as there are plenty of mass produced bags that will do the job. Big isn’t only fashionable it’s very handy for those summer trips.

You can pack your water, sunglasses, sunscreen, and what ever else you need to drag along in the warmer months. Almost like a mini suitcase and for us women that’s important.

Don’t forget to pick up a few of the very fashionable halter tops that have hit the stores this season. Unlike the slinky halters of the 1970s these are full length tanks with the sexy halter top. Great for hiding those extra tummy roles.

They are available in a wide range of materials accented with rhinestones, laced, or an accent ethnic fabric. And at the end of the summer you don’t need to pack these away, just add a blouse or blazer overtop and your good late into the fall season.

The skirts this season are not only fashionable, they are comfortable and functional. Nicely fitted waste and thigh then flaring to a full body just above the knee. They are available in a variety of lengths from above the knee to ankle length.

This style works great for work and casual. You can easily move around, bend, and stretch without having to worry about it. The flare keeps you cool and is unrestricting. Also available in a variety of fabrics and perfect for the summer and fall season.

Shorts this season vary from short shorts to dress shorts. Depending on how fit your legs are will depend on what styles you can wear. Colors range from cool and refreshing white, to kaki, to vibrant fuchsia or turquoise. You pick!

This season leaves plenty of options for shoes from flip flops to wedges in a variety of heel heights. You can mix and match to your hearts content.

Rhinestones are very popular adornment on shoes this season. Even better the summer fashions can take you into late fall with no problem.

The wedge heal is not only fashionable, it’s very comfortable. It’s great to see it make a comeback from the late 70s. This is a shoe that is very flexible.

Don’t forget to add pair of sunglasses, in fact add a few so you’ve got a pair to cover every mood. Fun, sexy, sophisticated? Your sunglasses can say plenty. If you wear glasses you can either get prescription sunglasses or clip ons to keep your eyes protected.

Remember summer is a fun time. It’s the season that allows us to lighten up our wardrobe and enjoy what summer has to offer. Every wardrobe this summer has gotta have it summer fashions!

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Adult dating - Friend or foe…your sex life and the Internet!

By Helen Smith

Word count 834

There was a time when finding a date, partner, lover or playmate online was frowned upon. It was for people who couldn’t get a date any other way! Oh how things have changed…not only can you sign up to a site listing thousands of singles who match your height, size, location and taste in food…now you can choose your sex partners too.

Finding people on the net can be an isolating/sole activity but, once you’ve taken that deep breath and shrugged off the stigma attached to female sexual freedom, life can get very interesting!

Take the fetish scene; it’s out there, sites for introduction or information, clubs for fun, support or full on parties, yearly events and awards, shops for all those outfits and toys to assist in your wildest fantasies. Whether you’re into sexy undies, the power of domination or having your feet licked…it’s yours for the taking. It’s time to turn your man over and tell him how u like it…or come out to the world and grab the girl with the dog collar and lead her straight to your bedroom, love nest or dungeon!

So, where do you start what’s the ethics, is it safe, what’s the terminology?

Start at the beginning.

What are you looking for?

Straight sex A specific fetish Are you curious about them all Do you want information before deciding Do you want to meet in the flesh or chat online?

Be clear in your own head what you want, don’t go at someone else’s pace, set your own and only go as far and as fast as you want to.

Once you’ve found a site that interests you take advantage of the free trial offers. Use this time to send as many mails to other members as you can, the more you mail out the more will come back. Chat with lots of people not just the one person. And remember it’s cool for women to make the first contact too!

Fill out your personal details. This is your opportunity to sell yourself. Tell people who you are, what you like, what you’re looking for. If it’s your first time or if you’re new to the scene just say so. The members are into an alternative lifestyle; they’re not an alien life form. And above all, be honest!

Put a picture on your profile. Make sure it’s of you and only you! Not your favourite pet or you and your ex! And make sure it’s an up to date one…nothing worse than when you get to meet someone and they look about 10 years older than the picture you’ve been dreaming over!

Don’t feel obliged to answer every contact. Just because it’s a site about sex doesn’t mean anyone can say anything to you and you have to accept it. No matter what type of site or relationship the overriding word is ‘consensual’. If you’re not interested then don’t reply. You wouldn’t accept a drink, dance or advance from just anyone in a club and the same applies to introduction sites.

If there’s something on a persons profile that you don’t understand take a deep breath and ask then or look in the sites glossary. Or if you’re just too shy for that do a search on the Internet!

Use the safety of the site to get to know the people you come in contact with before meeting them in person. If you do agree to meet in person meet in a public place and drive yourself.

Is it a scam I hear you ask? No, there are thousands of people out there looking to make new friends, find romance, find a sex partner that match their hopes, dreams and fantasies and it costs less per month than one night out on the town. And lets be honest, how often will you come across people from around the world that you can talk openly to from the moment you meet them about your inner most fantasies? Do remember though that online dating is a tool to help with what you are looking for but without your input it would be like sitting in the toilets at a party!

It doesn’t matter what your age, size, hair colour or interests are. There are sites on the Internet to meet your need and budget. Whether it’s music, fetish, sport, health or religion, there’s a site for you. So what are you waiting for, get on there and have some fun.

Helen Smith www.fetish-mate.com

Copyright © 2005 Helen Smith. This article is provided courtesy of www.fetish-mate.com This article may be freely published on any website, as long as the links are live, and this notice is left intact.

Not too long ago, a friend of mine mentioned that one of his coworkers recently recovered his stolen identity. I asked how long the process took. “Only two years” he replied.

Compared to my business partner’s six year nightmare “only” maybe appropriate but like most victims of identity theft, he probably thought “when”. As in, “when will I get my life back?”

Privacy Rights Clearinghouse, a consumer nonprofit organization, reported that victims spend on average 175 hours trying to recover their identity, often over a period of years. Factor in out of pocket expenses, (usually over $1,500 according to the FTC) and recovery gets painfully magnified.

What are the steps to identity restoration? It starts with obtaining a police report. That report doesn’t mean other law enforcement agencies have been contacted. Yet you must do a complete search of local and federal law enforcement databases too find out if anything else, including criminal activity exists on your identity.

You’re also going to need the police report to contact the many and I mean many different agencies and organizations, including the Social Security Administration, The Federal Trade Commission, all of your financial institutions, the 3 major credit bureaus, the Passport Office,The Department of Motor Vehicles, the Post Office, as well as the Medical Information Bureau . All of these places must be sent a fraud notification alert. Concerning your financial institutions, get them to cancel your credit cards and close your bank accounts. Find out from your bank about any suspicious activity, such as accounts tampered with or opened fraudulently. Reopen new bank accounts with password verification.

Know your rights. According to the Fair Credit Reporting Act of 1992, you must be told not only what’s in your file but if that information is being used against you. The Federal Trade Commission recently expanded the rights available to victims of identity theft, including your right to get negative information due to fraud blocked from your records.

This brings us to the credit bureaus. Make sure your credit report reflects the identity theft and gets flagged with a fraud alert. Many victims have received assurances that the matter would be resolved, however months and sometimes years later, the credit bureaus have not cleared their records. This without a doubt ranks as THE biggest headache for identity theft victims.

Once a negative gets put on your record, it seems the credit bureaus refuse to remove it, in spite of the countless documentation you provide to them. This can affect you well into the future when buying a house, car or any other big ticket item. If you are going to do this by yourself, constant follow up is critical. That goes for all the organizations but especially the credit bureaus. Be diligent until the matter gets resolved. Getting a lawyer wouldn’t be a bad idea.

Stay Away from “credit repair companies”. No matter what they advertise, there’s usually nothing they can do to help you with identity theft. Some of them even offer to help you apply for credit under a new identity. Hello? When trying to eliminate fraud from your record you don’t want to create more fraud!

Advise the utility companies. It’s not just bank accounts and credit cards. Many identity thieves commit fraud by opening telephone accounts, purchasing cable television or establishing credit with the gas & electric companies, in the hopes it will go unnoticed for as long as possible.

If necessary get counseling. Identity theft can be a shattering experience mentally and emotionally. Victims and family members often feel violated. It’s not their fault of course but the feelings remain. A network of support groups and counselors exists if you need it.

The road back from identity theft can take years, cost a lot of money,and cause much stress and pain . But with follow up, support and belief that the nightmare will end…the nightmare WILL end.