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      Spring 2021 Hair Trends: Every Cut, Color, and Style You Should Try

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      For the first six months of quarantine, I got dressed and did my makeup just about every day. It felt so good to have a routine in the morning, wear the clothes I love in my closet, and get creative with my makeup. But I’m not joking when I say I didn’t even touch my hair. Maybe I’d throw it up in a bun or pull it back with a clip, but I had little-to-no motivation to heat style whatsoever. Nothing was convincing me to do my hair. Fast-forward a little bit, and I’m reformed. One day, I really craved a bouncy, curly look with my makeup and outfit, and I just went for it. Now? I’m back to styling my hair just as I was pre-COVID. It’s become a ritual to spend time on my hair most days, and it’s getting me very excited to try the abundance of new trends and styles popping up for 2021. 
      Behold: the cuts, colors, and styles we’re looking out for this spring.

      1. Face-Framing Color

      I won’t say Charli D’Amelio started this trend, but she had a pretty significant role in convincing us all to do it. Whether you opt for some light “money pieces” or go full-out with a bright color, this look gives a bright, fun flair to your typical color.

      2. Balayage

      Why yes, the 2010s biggest hair trend is back, thanks to a pandemic in which low-maintenance color is essential. This color grows out with grace while still maintaining lots of dimension and brightness, regardless of your natural color.

      3. Queen’s Gambit Red

      If all you could stare at while watching The Queen’s Gambit was Anya Taylor Joy’s gorgeous red hair color, then you’ll understand why this trend is popping up. If you already have light hair, this is pretty easy to achieve, but adding a red-tint to your dark hair super easy with a color conditioner like this one.

      4. Dirty Blonde

      “Dirty dishwater” hair is everything right now, and it doesn’t help that it’s very low-maintenance. This is a dark, sandy, textured blonde that’s full of dimension and tone. Some sandy blondes are very honey and golden, while others look gorgeous with a grey-ish tone; this trend is super versatile and universal depending on your skin tone.

      5. Semi-Permanent Color

      Getting bored with your color in quarantine? Semi-permanent color is the answer. Whether you try a color conditioner or a true semi-permanent color, it’s easy to do at home and won’t (totally) annoy your stylist when you finally make your way back in the chair.

      1. Shag

      We’re thanking Miley Cyrus for making the mullet cool again, and it’s convincing us we need a shag haircut ASAP. This style works on fine, wavy, and curly hair types super well (coily/textured hair might struggle with this, but it’s not impossible! Finding a good stylist is key) and looks unique and updated from the trendy cuts of the past few years.

      2. Bangs

      While quarantine bangs might have seemed like a fad, stylists are still incorporating every single bang style into their current cuts. Curtain bangs might seem like the biggest option, but full bangs, shaggy bangs, wispy bangs, and even side bangs are practically everywhere right now.

      3. Blunt Lengths

      As far as low-maintenance cuts go, this is basically at the top of the list. One-length hair is perfect for anyone who wants to create lots of volume on thin or fine hair types, but it also looks sleek and sexy on thick or textured hair.

      4. Curly Pixie

      Curly and coily hair don’t have to forgo stylish short cuts! In fact, this short pixie is truly better on a curly hair type because it has lots of volume, texture, and shape without having to do too much. Ask your stylist for a short pixie. You can opt for some layers, or keep it blunt; either way, it’s cool as hell.

      5. Short Bob

      The chic French-inspired, ‘90s bob is the new way to keep your hair prim and polished. This look is great for anyone who wants an easy-going style, as this looks great with straight, wavy, curly, and coily hair.

      1. Barely-There Waves

      These “baby waves” look natural, high-fashion, and ultra-cool. Take a 1 in. curling iron and lightly curl random sections of the hair, pulling each piece taut afterward to straighten it out a bit. Keep it light by combing through your hair with a wide-tooth comb afterward instead of a brush. The trick to this style is keeping your ends and roots straight.

      2. Sleek

      For a really sleek look, blow dry your hair straight with a blow-dry brush or blow dryer and round brush, and then pass over each section with a flat iron. To seal it all in, spray a light hairspray and a little bit of a lightweight hair oil into the palm of your hand, rub together, and lightly run your fingers through your ends. This keeps the look really touchable and soft while staying sleek and shiny.

      3. Tons of Shine

      After years of matte, beachy looks, shiny hair that bounces off the light is officially back. Get this look by using a shine product while you blow dry or heat style your hair, and then follow the look with a lightweight hair oil. Make sure to keep any oils away from your scalp to not look too greasy.

      4. Pulled-Back With A Clip

      This is 2021’s updated version of the “messy bun.” It’s equally as cute, versatile, and practical as the messy bun but with an extra “cool-girl” factor. You can pull your hair into a clip into dozens of ways: low on your head, half-up, with ends sprayed out, tight and sleek, extra messy–you name it.

      5. Curled Ends

      This fluffy, curled style is reminiscent of hot rollers and the ‘90s, which might just be why we love it so much. To achieve: blow dry hair straight to give it lots of body and shine, and then curl just the ends with a big curling iron, holding it horizontal to get as much volume in your curl as possible. Curl in different directions to create dimension, and brush it all out once the curls have cooled. This style looks extra cute in a half-up pony! More

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      5 Hyperpigmentation Myths About Darker Skin Tones

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      As a Woman of Color, I’ve often struggled not only with finding foundation and color cosmetics that match my skin and its undertones, but also with finding the right skincare for the one condition that affects Black and Brown people the most: hyperpigmentation. Folks of any complexion can experience hyperpigmentation, as anatomically all skin is the same. We all have the same types of dermal layers, pores, blood vessels, and glands. However, there is one small and very obvious way that our skin differs, and that is in pigment. Skin color is determined by the presence of melanin, a pigment made by cells called melanocytes. Contrary to popular belief, we all have the same number of these cells, but depending on where we are from geographically and genetically, these cells make more melanin for some of us versus others. Darker skin is still prone to hyperpigmentation and needs all of the protection that fairer skin tones warrant.
      Hyperpigmentation happens when cells produce too much melanin at one time, causing what we commonly call a dark spot or a blemish. So, why does this happen, and why does it happen more frequently in darker skin-toned people? Surprisingly, it all leads back to one of two things: hormones or inflammation. Hyperpigmentation can happen when our hormones are out of whack due to pregnancy, changes in birth control, or even menopause. Changes in skin pigment due to these causes frequently show up on our skin in larger brown patches, or in a “mask-like” formation and should be addressed by your medical doctor.
      However, most of the dark spots that we seek to correct with skincare products are caused by inflammation and cause Post Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation, or PIH. Have you ever bought a bag of fruit and one random apple slips out of the bag and bounces onto the floor? Though said apple is now slightly dented, you place it in the bowl with others. A day later, you may notice that the apple has a bruise or a brown spot around the dent? This inflammation is its response to trauma. Our skin responds much in the same way. 
      Any “trigger” to darker skin, even the seemingly innocent ones–which can include exfoliation, acne, waxing, or shaving—can cause melanocytes to overproduce skin pigment (melanin), causing a dark spot. So, what can we do about this? First, we can debunk a few myths about hyperpigmentation and Brown skin.

      source: @gethyperskin

       
      1. Dark skin is less sensitive than fair skin
      You may have already guessed after reading the above that this is false. Though fair skin can easily reveal any irritation or changes due to its lighter pigment, dark skin can mask irritation and have more visible and prolonged reactions to irritants and trauma.
      Therefore, it is important that skincare regimens for Black and Brown skin contain calming and soothing ingredients to prevent irritation, thus the overproduction of melanin. Even during exfoliation, it’s important to be sure that manual or scrub exfoliants are not harsh and exfoliating agents, such as acids, are not irritating.
       
      2. Dark skin tones can’t use peels
      This myth is a tricky one! Black and Brown skin tones have long been warned against laser treatments, and rightfully so. Early lasers and those used for hair removal were designed to find and zap pigment in the skin, preventing them from being an option for deeper skin tones. However, there have been a number of new developments in this space including, the invention of Pico Lasers, which can work on various skin tones!
      Peels have long been a go-to for lightening and brightening dark marks left by acne or sun damage; however, if you recall, inflammation can be caused by irritation, which means that things like strong acids can actually cause more harm than good. It is important to make sure that the peel you choose does not contain an acid that you may be allergic to. Peels tend to have varying strengths, from lighter strengths that you can perform at home to deeper peels that only a dermatologist should perform. If opting for a medium to deep peel, it is recommended that you have it performed by a professional who understands darker skin tones and your unique needs.

      Source: @blackgirlsunscreen

      3. Thinking acne is not the culprit
      I rarely break out, but when I do, whether I squeeze my pesky pimple or not, it almost always leaves a dark mark. This is because acne is, by definition, the occurrence of inflamed or infected oil glands in the skin. So, the best way to counteract dark spots from acne is to prevent them.  
      Use a clarifying cleanser to keep your face free of bacteria and your pores decongested, especially if you’re oily. This is an important step in preventing breakouts from happening in the first place. Unfortunately, once the irritation has happened and the pimple has erupted, it can be days to weeks before that dark mark makes its exit.
       
      4. Using lightening products will help
      Unless you’ve lived under a rock, you may have heard that many of the lightening products used by our moms and grandmothers have actually not only caused skin damage, but may have caused some serious side effects due to toxic ingredients that went under the radar for many years. In addition, society has begun to address the use of these products as they have historically promoted colorism in certain cultures.
      I personally am glad to see this conversation at the forefront of the beauty industry favoring safety and inclusivity in skincare. That said, lightening products can indeed still be the solution if you take the time to vet ingredients to ensure their safety. Ingredients such as licorice root, kojic acid, and skin superhero vitamin C are all great options for safely lightening and brightening dark spots.
       

      source: @blackgirlsunscreen

      5. Thinking you don’t need sunscreen
      Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to the biggest myth of them all! Yes, we the Brown people have more melanin, but our melanin isn’t stronger than the sun. 
      The biggest culprit of hyperpigmentation is UV exposure from the sun. Though Black people have lower rates for skin cancer, we have higher rates of dying from it, as we typically will go undiagnosed for a longer period of time. Therefore, it is important for all skin tones to wear sunscreen each and every day, even in the winter or when it’s cloudy out. In addition, if you are using products to lighten PIH, your skin may actually be more sensitive to the sun, and you may be undoing all the correcting effects of your regimen by exposing your skin to UV harm.
      Lastly, I have experienced the common complaint of “ashy” or “gray” skin after an SPF application. Luckily for us, given the current heightened visibility of the beauty industry in addressing melanated skin, we are now seeing new brands that have launched expressly to address these concerns. One such company, Black Girl Sunscreen, manufactures SPF products with no white cast or residue. More

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      Priyanka Chopra shares ‘profound regret’ over promoting skin-lightening creams

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      Priyanka Chopra Jonas has shared her regret over promoting skin-lightening creams in the past.
      The Hollywood and Bollywood actress previously appeared in adverts for Garnier and Pond’s which promoted skin lighteners.

      In particular in an advert for Pond’s, the plotline centred around Chopra playing a darker-skinned woman who lost her partner to a lighter-skinned woman. The storyline saw Chopra use the Pond’s skin-lightening product to eventually win the man back.
      The controversy surrounding the advert re-emerged in 2020 when Chopra shared her public support for the Black Lives Matter movement last year, with people pointing out she had previously been paid to promote skin-lighteners.

      List of Indian actors who are speaking on BLM and their fairness cream ads, a thread : pic.twitter.com/yUeRNLch6U
      — anti pigeon (@aluminiummaiden) May 31, 2020

      The actress, who is married to singer Nick Jonas, has now opened up about the controversy in her new memoir Unfinished, apologising for her actions.
      The 38-year-old reflected upon her childhood, admitting her darker skin had made her feel “unattractive”, leaving her self-worth diminished.
      “I thought about how pained I’d felt when I was called kaali [a derogatory term meaning dark-skinned] as a child,” she said in her memoir. “I was now promoting the destructive messages that had so eaten away at my sense of self-worth when I was growing up, and I knew the only person I could blame was myself.”
      She went on to say that appearing in those campaigns are one of her “most profound regrets”.
      “I can’t go back and change what I did, but I can apologise, and I do so sincerely,” she explained. “To all the people who saw the harmful messaging that I contributed to, to all the people who still have to see commercials like these in every medium – I am deeply sorry.”
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Feature Image: Priyanka Chopra Instagram More

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      The perfect Valentine’s Day gifts for your loved ones this season

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      As Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, this gift-giving occasion for showing your love can make the month quite a daunting task with such a variety of options available in the market.

      With all the out-of-the-box gifting ideas you need this month, we’ve compiled a list of items your significant other. Whether it be self-care favourites or simply a piece of jewellery to touch their heart these sentimental keepsakes will make you admire them forever, no matter how many years pass by.

      Opyum leather sandals Dhs4,750 Saint Laurent available at Level Shoes

      Ladies’ watch Carrara silver-rosegold Dhs2,352 Aigner

      Speckled ceramic jewelry box vase Dhs897 Anissa Kermiche

      Love small 18kt yellow-gold wedding band Dhs5,106 Cartier

      Menottes dinh van R12 bracelet yellow gold and diamonds Dhs11,559 Dinh Van

      Baies candle limited edition Dhs324 Diptyque

      Lost Chery Eau de parfum 50ml Dhs1,332 Tom Ford Beauty

      Boxed white flower Dhs78 Spongellé available at balmessence.com

      Panama textured-leather notebook Dhs256 Smythson

      Triangle logo mini bag in brushed leather Dhs5,400 Prada available at ounass.ae

      Butterfly Anagram fitted sunglasses in acetate Dhs1,200 Loewe

      X Salviati set of four Murano wine glasses Dhs2,065 La DoubleJ available at Matchesfashion.com

      Enjoy a staycation at Hilton RAK with rooms starting at Dhs850 for a beach access suite and breakfast.

      1955 horsebit-detailed leather belt Dhs1,928 Gucci

      Rouge à Lèvres mat lipstick Dhs155 Gucci Beauty

      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Feature image: Instagram @YSL  More

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      Everything You Need to Know Before Getting Bangs—Plus, How to Style Them

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      Maybe it was my teenage obsession with the movie 500 Days of Summer or how I’ve always romanced anything and everything French. But for whatever reason, I’ve had a long-term, love-hate relationship with bangs. I’ve saved one too many Instagram photos of flawless models with perfectly-imperfect fringe to understand the disappointment of a haircut that over-promises and under-delivers. Sigh.After scrolling too long on Instagram yourself, you might feel the urge to call your hairstylist. “I could pull this off!” you say, only to be reminded of how high maintenance, unpredictable, and often unruly bangs really are. If this sounds familiar, take heart in knowing we’ve all been there. The on-again-off-again relationship with bangs is universal. But I’m here to tell you there is hope. Perfectly-imperfect fringe, despite what the naysayers say, is attainable. 
      The wonderful thing about bangs is that there are endless styles to choose from. Baby bangs, curtain bangs, side-swept bangs, the inimitable Zooey Deschanel bangs–if you’re brave enough, try them all on for size. Experiment and have fun; it’s just hair, after all. But if you’re the indecisive type, hear me out. For bangs that are not only tolerable but adorable, here’s what’s worked for me. 

      1. Blunt bangs aren’t (always) your friend
      Of course, lots of people rock this bold look, and face shapes should be taken into account. But from personal experience, I’ve found that subtly choppy bangs with edges that blend into the rest of your hair are a game-changer. Those slightly longer pieces do a wonderful job of framing your face, making your morning routine that much easier. 

      2. Master the delicate balance between too thick and too thin
      This is both an art and a science, and sometimes it’s a matter of trial and error. But before you make your way into the hot seat at your next appointment, consider not just the length but the thickness you prefer. Ask your hairdresser to slowly cut into your bangs so you can get a sense of how wispy or heavy they should be. Somewhere right in the middle is what I recommend aiming for. This will make a world of difference in how manageable they are.

      3. Be prepared for frequent trips to the salon
      To have bangs is to accept the major upkeep that comes with them. Your stylist may offer complimentary bang trims, and if so, be sure to take advantage of this perk (just don’t forget to tip!). I beg of you, resist reaching for the scissors. I’ve learned the hard way over and over again.

      4. Collect all the mini hair tools
      Instead of the usual paddle brush, I love using a tiny round brush for some extra oomph. Blow-dry the ends of your bangs in opposite directions, and softly curl the middle section for a bit of volume and movement. Although my hair is naturally wavy and sometimes just straight out of control, this technique never fails. 
      A tiny flat iron is another must and can give your bangs a polished, sleek look. It’s also known for saving the day when they’re just a little out of whack. To spruce them up, apply heat protectant spray and repeat the same curling method you used with the round brush. I’ve found I can even skip the awkward bang wash if they’re in disarray just by using a flat iron.

      source: @scunci

      5. Utilize hair clips and dry shampoo
      Lately, I’ve been trying to limit how often I wash my hair to avoid stripping it of its natural oils. But bangs are another story. Too much dry shampoo is a no-go, but I’ve found that it can be extra helpful when used proactively. Sometimes after I’ve washed and styled my bangs, I like to lightly spray some dry shampoo on the roots to keep them lively and fresh all day long. And although not the cutest look, I make a habit at night of pinning them away from my forehead with some clips.

      6. Let your bangs live
      With so many types of bangs to consider, along with various styling techniques, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Bangs are a commitment. But the one trick that might be the most important has nothing to do with your hair itself, but your mindset. Embrace the occasional chaos. Learn to love your bangs, even when they’re out of place, and you might find they’re actually effortless after all.

      Want to try bangs? Here’s what to ask your stylist for: 

      Curtain Bangs

      Full Bangs

      Wispy Bangs

      Face-Framing Layers
      (Not to be confused with curtain bangs–face-framing layers are chin-length; bangs are eye-to-cheekbone-length)

      Side-Swept Bangs

      Baby Bangs More

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      Gigi Hadid addresses claims her ‘face looks different’

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      Being in the spotlight and walking the runways of some of the most high-profile brands in the world, Gigi Hadid has had her picture taken too many times to count.
      In turn, this means many have been watching her grow and evolve over the years. However, it seems some have had a few things to say about the supermodel’s appearance “looking different” implying she had undergone some cosmetic surgery procedures, which she recently clarified in a beauty video for Vogue US.

      According to the new mum, people had specifically commented on the shape of her nose, but Hadid explained it’s down to the “power of makeup”.

      When she first began modelling and attending red carpet events, Hadid would do her own makeup, which has prompted people to comment on her early looks
      “Now, it’s like, people pull up those pictures and are like, ‘Oh, Gigi’s nose looks different in these pictures than now’,” the 25-year-old explained. “Or, they’ll talk about something with my face. Like, ‘This has changed on Gigi.’”
      The supermodel went on to confirm she’s never had any work done on her face.
      “That’s the power of makeup – I’ve never done anything to my face,” she said. “But the way that I’ve learned to contour in certain places, put bronzer in some places, and leave out in other places — it’s something you have to learn.”
      Recently appearing on the cover of Vogue US, Hadid also opened up about the birth of four-month-old daughter Khai.

      Hadid opted to welcome her first child with boyfriend Zayn Malik at home due to the COVID-19 restrictions that would have been in place if she had decided to give birth in a hospital.
      This way she could also have her mother, Yolanda Hadid and sister Bella Hadid by her side during her labour, which was 14 hours.
      “I know my mom and Zayn and Bella were proud of me, but at certain points I saw each of them in terror,” Hadid said in her interview. “Afterward, Z and I looked at each other and were like, we can have some time before we do that again.”
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Gigi Hadid Instagram More

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      The Coolest Nail Trends to Try This Spring 💐

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      My favorite thing about the start of spring is the optimism. Although we’ll be experiencing winter weather through mid-April, there’s an excitement for warmth and sunshine in the air. The first sunny days, no matter the temperature (usually high 30s in the Midwest), the streets are bustling with people. Even in the midst of COVID, people are excited to take long walks and bask in the sunshine, even if it means grabbing your warmest puffer and a hot coffee. We drop all the deep, warm tones for pastels and brights, likely in the form of sweaters, jackets, and long pants. And we can’t forget the historic swap from hot to iced beverages–even if touching an iced coffee practically freezes your fingers. 💞 🧚‍♀️ 💐Spring is in the air, and what better way to celebrate it than a fresh coat of polish? You can kiss all those dreary winter tones goodbye, and say hello to spring 2021’s full lineup of bright, pastel, and breezy tones. 

      1. Green Apple 

      source: @calpolish

      2. Lilac

      source: Beth Gillette for The Everygirl

      3. Bubblegum Pink

      source: @missluvleelocs

      4. Periwinkle 

      source: @lovelurii

      5. Barely-There

      source: @staticnailsofficial

      6. Press-Ons

      source: @marmaladenails

      7. Pistacio Green 

      source: Cirque Colors

      8. Sky Blue

      source: Beth Gillette for The Everygirl

      9. Pastel Yellow

      source: Hypnotic Polish

      10. Tangerine 

      source: Pear Nova More

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      Having 40 Foundation Shades Doesn’t Make a Brand Inclusive—Here’s What Does

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      One of the many things I do in my day-to-day as a beauty editor is source images for articles, which has me following hundreds of beauty brands, influencers, and other people in the business on Instagram. In both my personal and work-time, I’m scrolling through new releases, product reviews, announcements, roundups, and more. Over time, you start to notice trends. Some brands always get it right (read: Fenty Beauty), pandemic life has basically ended the need for lip products beyond the usual lip balm, and drugstore skincare is really on the up-and-up. But one thing is glaring, even in 2021: product images still aren’t diverse, and I’m forced to scroll endlessly to find options that showcase Black and Brown bodies.This is especially difficult for nail polishes and any photos that involve hands. One look through a mainstream brands’ feed can take 40-or-so rows to see a different skin tone be represented. What if you’re searching for how a shade looks on your skin, or how a product performs with your skin type? But it’s beyond that; it’s about representation. So, Hannah Harris, student at the Savannah College of Art and Design, started Brown Girl Hands, an Instagram account and website dedicated to showcasing and reviewing beauty products through Black hands. We talked to Hannah about why she started her business and account, her favorite beauty products she’s tried along the way, and her product photography tips.

      What made you start your Instagram account?

      Brown Girl Hands was the culmination of many things crossing paths at the right time. My high school camera (in hindsight, I should’ve paid more attention in photography class), my unique fascination with hand photos (my Pinterest boards can vouch for me), and my love of reading (particularly, a Jessica Defino article titled Where are All the Brown Hands?). It was after reading that article that the idea for Brown Girl Hands came to be. I thought to myself, “Where are all the Brown Hands? I’m right here.” I wanted to show brands that Brown hands can be aesthetic and that they deserve to be represented.
       
      How did you start? Did you have any previous experience with reviewing products or photography?

      I took a photography class years ago in high school, but everything else I taught myself. It’s been quite a bit of trial and error, following the sun for good lighting and shooting in my driveway. Instagram was one of my biggest resources. I followed different photographers, watched their tutorials, and messaged them with questions. My approach for reviewing products is just talking like it’s a good friend [who is] asking me for a recommendation!

       
      The industry is pretty slow to show swatches and product images on Black and Brown people. How do you hope your Instagram will change this? What changes would you like to see in the beauty industry?

      I hope Brown Girl Hands’ account brings awareness to beauty brands that they need to include different skin tones in their product photography.  At Brown Girl Hands Studio, I work with beauty brands to offer more diverse product photography and have shot entire product line-ups. I would love to see different types of diversity in the beauty industry. I think we got stuck on the “40 shades!” for such a long time, but what about diversity in product photography, in age, in ability?
       
      What is your favorite aspect of your Instagram?

      The community. The Brown Girl Hands community is the reason why we exist. When women message us about how much it means to them for someone to acknowledge that you can be Black and Brown and enjoy minimalism, enjoy beauty, enjoy beautiful things—that means everything.
       
      You are also really passionate about age diversity in the beauty industry. Can you explain a little bit more about why and what you hope to see change in the future?

      I was recently a finalist for the Fashion Scholarship Fund for my project on age inclusion in haircare. This really stemmed from my mom and the lack of positive messaging I saw for her age. It was always about reversing their wrinkles but never about empowering them. So many women over 40 are our biggest inspirations: our moms, grandmothers, Michelle Obama, Brene Brown, Oprah, I could go on. Why do we continually leave them out in our advertising in a confident way? Currently at SCAD, I’m a junior in the Business of Beauty and Fragrance program where we learn the ins and outs of the industry from marketing to leadership and ethics and emerge well prepared for new opportunities. I’m excited for a few upcoming projects and positions, including interning at the Estee Lauder Companies this summer and being a part of the inaugural first-class of 20 Virgil Abloh Scholars to receive mentorship from Abloh.

       
      Now onto the fun stuff 🙂  What are your favorite beauty products you’ve featured on your Instagram?
      My top 3: Summer Fridays Lip Butter Balm, Ranavat Kansa Wand, and Lesse Ritual Serum.

      Summer Fridays
      Lip Butter Balm

      “This is, hands down, the best lip gloss and balm I’ve ever tried … It gives me the super shiny look I want with zero stickiness. I wear it to bed at night to moisturize, and I wear it during the day over my favorite lip colors. The scent/flavor is a super mild vanilla,” Hannah said in her review of the product.

      Kansa Wand Facial Massage Tool

      “This facial massage tool from Indian owned brand Ranavat has been my favorite part of my skincare routine these past few weeks. After applying my face oil, I gently massage it in in circular, upward motions. Used for centuries in Ayurveda, it slowly detoxes the skin,” Hannah said in her review of the product.

      Ritual Serum Balancing Turmeric & Sea Minerals

      “I love that I can read everything on the label … I wish it came in a body version so I could douse myself in it. So balancing, calming, moisturizing, yet simple—I truly look forward to applying this oil and giving myself a little face massage every night,” Hannah said in her review of the product.

       

      Any tips on taking good product photos?

      Sunlight is your best friend; good light can make or break a photo. For hand photos specifically, I use Glossier Futuredew to add luminance to the hands and a hint of cuticle oil.
       
      Are there any products you’re excited to feature or try in the future?

      I would love to try the Dyson Hair Dryer–what a dream! I’m also excited to feature all Black-owned [brands] for the month of February. More