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      How I Manage My Gym Acne With Only One Product

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      Gym Acne: 1. Me: 0. Well, at least for a while. This past summer, I developed a daily habit of working out an hour or more a day. My newfound workout routine not only came with a renewed sense of energy after months of staying inside, but also with a battle with body acne that populated on my back, shoulders, and chest. I started using a body wash formulated with the acne-fighting hero ingredient, salicylic acid—though it didn’t deliver the results I wanted. In mid-July, Versed’s launch of the Back-Up Plan Acne-Control Body Mist immediately caught my eye. Since the first week of August, I have been using this mist daily after I shower, and it has delivered promising results: all the body acne that has developed around my chest and shoulders is gone, and only a few troublesome pimples on my back still remain. 

      With a few sprays on the body and a wait time of 30 seconds for it to dry, it’s a fast, convenient treatment to target that troubling acne at any time. As it says on the bottle, you can use the mist 2-3 times a day, which for me is usually in the morning, before a workout, and after a shower. If you’re worried about the mist clinging to your shirt, though, not to worry! I use it all the time before getting dressed in the morning and it never clings to my clothes. Thanks to Versed’s body mist, I guess you could say that my gym acne and I are neck-in-neck in this battle at the moment. 

      As a self-proclaimed Gen Z “skin enthusiast” who is always learning about skincare ingredients and their benefits, I decided to also consult experts on the mist’s three hero ingredients—salicylic acid, witch hazel, and tea tree oil—to understand why this mist has the incredible ability of clearing away body acne. 

      Salicylic Acid, Witch Hazel, and Tea Tree Oil: An Acne-Fighting Trio

      Salicylic Acid
      One of the hero ingredients of this acne-fighting body mist is the one and only salicylic acid. According to board-certified dermatologist, Dr. Lisa Chipps of Moy, Fincher, Chipps Facial Plastics & Dermatology in Beverly Hills, salicylic acid has numerous benefits when it comes to clearing away acne. “Salicylic acid has long been a staple ingredient in acne treatment regimens,” Dr. Chipps said. “Salicylic acid is an oil-soluble beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that penetrates into the pores and helps to break down excess keratin. It gently exfoliates the skin, and it has some antimicrobial effects to kill acne-causing bacteria. It can also be anti-inflammatory.”
      While salicylic acid has the ability to mitigate acne, board-certified dermatologist and founder of Fifth Avenue Aesthetics, Dr. Marie Hayag, advised those with sensitive and dry skin to tread lightly when using a product with salicylic acid. “[It] is suitable for various skin types, but it can be drying. Those with very dry skin should make sure to stay moisturized throughout the day. People with oily, acne-prone skin would be the most compatible with salicylic acid as a treatment,” she said.

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      Witch Hazel
      Contrary to what its name suggests, there is nothing spooky about witch hazel. In fact, it’s known to eliminate the skin of its impurities and for its calming abilities. “Witch hazel is a mild astringent, so it can be used to remove excess keratin and bacteria from the skin. It has been suggested to have anti-inflammatory properties that can calm redness and inflammation associated with acne,” Dr. Chipps said.
      Like salicylic acid, it can also trigger a reaction in sensitive skin types, which means sensitive skin types need to beware before diving right in with witch hazel (so maybe it is actually a little spooky). “People with acne blemishes and oily skin can use witch hazel. Because the tannins in it can be sensitizing, people with very sensitive, irritated skin should be cautious and do a patch test before using witch hazel. Additionally, witch hazel can be drying, so make sure to moisturize well when using it,” Dr. Hayag said.   

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      Tea Tree Oil  
      The oil that is derived from tea tree leaves is another acne-fighting ingredient that can alleviate irritated skin and fight off germs that cause acne. “Tea tree oil’s benefits come from its antibiotic and anti-inflammatory properties,” said Dr. Hayag. “It contains numerous compounds that kill certain types of viruses, bacteria, and fungi. Most importantly, it’s been shown to be effective in killing P.acnes, the bacteria that causes acne.” She said that tea tree oil can help many acne-sufferers, but it may cause an adverse reaction with sensitive skin types because it has notes of fragrance.

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      The Bottom Line 
      I honestly would never trade this body mist for anything when it comes to treating my body acne. It’s lightweight, affordable (at a price of $15), and packed with acne-fighting ingredients that are designed to calm the skin and eliminate the bacteria that cause acne. Paying attention to skincare product ingredients and their functions make all the difference when searching for that perfect product that can tend to your skin concerns. If I kept trying products that appeared to be “good” and failed to read their ingredient lists, then perhaps I still would be on the gym acne struggle bus. Thanks to Versed’s body mist and its powerhouse ingredients, I never have to go to battle with gym acne ever again. More

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      9 Beauty Mistakes to Stop Making in 2021 for Better Skin

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      If you thought you were coming to read an article in which I wax poetic about the benefits of drinking water, changing your pillowcase, and cleaning your makeup brushes, think again. If you’re reading this, I have too much admiration for you to say the same things we’ve all heard a million times. You’re a beauty lover, and taking care of your skin is likely something you already do on a regular basis. The last thing you want to read is the same old, amateur lines about spreading bacteria all over your face and yada yada. But that doesn’t mean you’re doing everything right, and there might be a few habits you’ve come way too accustomed to that are actually hurting your skin and sabotaging your ability to achieve the glistening, clear, and bright skin of your dreams. 

      1. Using the same hand towel you use all day to dry your face at night
      Thanks to COVID, you’re likely washing your hands more than ever before, meaning the hand towel hanging up in your bathroom gets used a lot. Just because you’re wiping your clean hands on it all day doesn’t mean that’s the only way you’re using it, and who’s to say it hasn’t picked up something gross along the way (it is sitting in the bathroom after all). Instead, opt for a microfiber or muslin cloth towel that you used specifically for your face. I also swear by keeping a few reusable cotton pads laying around because I can use those to lightly dry my face as well. 
      However, don’t underestimate the power of applying the rest of your skincare routine to damp skin. Many products, especially hyaluronic acid, cling to water and are significantly more effective when applied to damp skin. 

      2. Using a loofah
      After a long discussion with our team and a few friends recently, many of us are still washing our bodies with loofahs. Not to be harsh, but that’s disgusting, y’all. You don’t need to exfoliate your body every single time you shower, and if you want to exfoliate, you’re better off using a scrub because you don’t have to worry about replacing it constantly like you would an exfoliating glove or loofah. If you’re craving the exfoliation, use a washcloth that you can wash often (I always recommend white because you can bleach them!) and keep clean. But truly, your hands suffice to keep you as clean as you need to be.

      3. Not making sure your ingredients work together
      Researching the ingredients of the skincare products you put on your face is a lot more necessary than you think. When influencers and companies and even your friends are constantly sharing the products they swear by, it’s easy to think, “Wow, I will just buy it all, and then I’ll have amazing skin!” But that’s not necessarily the case. For one, having a stockpile of 1 million products in your arsenal can make it extremely different to develop a solid routine, but it also means you have to apply them in a specific order. Certain acids and skincare ingredients play really well together (for example, vitamin C and ferulic acid or vitamin C and sunscreen), but others you should avoid because they can either decrease the efficacy of a product or cause major irritation (like retinol and AHAs). 

      4. Exfoliating too much
      Retinol, AHA, BHA, bakuchiol–the skincare industry has inundated us with options to exfoliate dead skin cells and reveal brighter, healthier skin. But skincare enthusiasts want to try it all, which can often lead to exfoliating the skin, leaving it dehydrated and irritated. Our faces don’t need exfoliated that much–1-2 times a week should be plenty enough. Smaller percentages that are meant for daily use are OK, but any product that has “exfoliator,” “peel,” or “resurfacing” shouldn’t be used any more than that 1-2 times a week mark. Make sure you spread the days out too–I recently adopted the model of “Self-Care Sunday” and “Wine Wednesday” thanks to a skincare consultation, and I always know those are the nights I use peels and heavy acids. 
      You should also keep this in mind if you use a retinol or tretinoin product. You should never use retinol the same night as a peel or another acid, and if you notice dryness, you should skip one night between each. Retinol is one of the most exfoliating, retexturizing products on the market, meaning it’s pretty easy to over-exfoliate with it.

      5. Not washing your duvet or comforter enough
      Look, I know I said I wouldn’t tell you about your pillowcase, but this is truly one that everyone needs a reminder about. Many of us sleep with our comforter pulled up close to our faces and that can easily get as gross as your pillowcase. Again, I love white (even more than just for the aesthetic) because it’s easy to bleach and clean. 

      6. Putting heavy coverage all over your entire face instead of just where you need it
      Your makeup application could have a major impact on the clarity of your skin. Now, don’t get me wrong, a full-coverage look is going to happen sometimes; that’s just the life of a makeup lover. But on a normal day-to-day basis, you can focus on covering the areas you’d like with that heavy coverage, and either thinning it out (mix it with a moisturizer or apply it lightly with a sponge) or skipping it at all in the areas that don’t need it. No one’s skin is entirely covered in spots or imperfections; there’s no reason your entire face needs to be constantly covered by thick coverage. 

      7. Using a drying concealer to cover acne
      What looks better to you: a really dry, crusty zit you can see a mile away because the concealer on top is so thick it’s the size of a second pimple, or a lighter coverage that hydrates the skin without maybe covering every single speck of the zit? I’m always choosing the latter, and your skin likes it too. As the mid-2000s mom classically said, “We have to dry the pimples out!” is simply not true. Yes, it helps the pimple reduce in size and disappear, but that isn’t the same when it comes to makeup. Keeping that skin hydrated might help your acne heal faster and can reduce the scarring that might occur. Plus, it simply looks so much better. Letting your real texture–acne and all–show versus covering your face in massive amounts of foundation is a major 2021 vibe.

      8. Not washing your tanning mitt
      If you self-tan, you need to wash your tanning mitt. Just like the whole monologue about using a loofah or the same washcloth all day long, your tanning mitt can easily get gunked up with dead skin, leftover tanner, and so much more gross stuff. I swear by using an old black sock to self-tan over a mitt because, yet again, it’s so easy to clean, but if you love a mitt, hand wash it with warm water and a little bit of gentle soap.

      9. Popping pimples with your fingers
      I’m not a preacher, so I won’t sit here and act like I never pop pimples. Heck, I’m Dr. Pimple Popper’s biggest fan. But there are some dos and don’ts to effectively popping a zit, and my #1 tip is to never use your fingers, especially your fingernails. The countless times I’ve made cuts from my fingernails or spread bacteria and made the spot even angrier and redder than before made me finally stop and switch to only popping zits with a tool or the gentlest trick: using two cotton swabs. 
      Also, don’t absolutely murder the zit. If a little comes out but not everything (what a lovely image I’ve put into all of our heads!), apply a drying lotion and move on until it’s ready again. You’ll minimize scarring, irritation, and overall stress levels.  More

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      in lifestyle and culture

      Aerial art – EW’s January cover star Mayassa Al-Tajir

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      January’s – ‘The Positivity Issue’ – Download Now
      Words & Creative Direction: Amy SessionsPhotography: Žiga MihelcicFashion Assistant: Sarah Joseph
      Aerial artist, fitness enthusiast and wellness expert, Mayassa Al-Tajir shares with us her positive approach to life.
      How does your morning routine set you up for a positive day?

      I am more Lark than Nightingale, so the morning is my favourite part of the day. I usually wake up at 5:30am without an alarm, just so that I can steal an extra hour of me-time before the day actually starts, this helps me feel grounded. I always start with a large cup of English Breakfast tea while I draw as I love the history of art, so I spend my first hour in the morning sketching, shading and enjoying the quiet, while the rest of the house sleeps. I feel that positivity and productivity come hand in hand, we are never happier, when we feel accomplished, and so I always start my day this way.
      You follow a holistic approach to health and fitness- how did you discover this path?
      This is a tricky question because sometimes I feel like I haven’t quite made it down the path as yet. I have always been looking for the path, searching, as most of us do for fulfilment, belonging, a sense of purpose, all those heavy anchors that bind. In the end, it did turn out to be a holistic approach, I just didn’t realise it at the time. I think it started after I had my second child, I had a tough pregnancy, and difficult birth, which left me with no core, I had severe diastasis recti and back issues. Both ailments were just something I was not willing to accept, so after grieving the loss of my core, I decided it was time to heal. I took up yoga, after which I followed my love for the aerial arts, and now I have a very strong core. Now each step I take, I am motivated to stay strong and keep my core safe.

      How does movement impact mindset?
      My main form of movement is yoga, which in itself is a very mindful approach to the movement. You are very aware of your body and your muscle movements, and your breath. In the moment of practice, the mind becomes raw and bright, you forget about your giant to-do list, as the mind becomes unblocked. I believe aerial movement needs to be extremely coordinated, you are concentrating all the time, for the flow, at times I feel I am in a math class, trying to memorise different formulas. In short, movement wakes up the mind, when you expel energy you feel energised, and the breath nourishes, and so clarity of mind always comes at the end of the practice.
      What motivated you to start practising aerials and what challenges have you overcome on your journey?
      I started off with yoga, which I believe is the fundamental backbone of any kind of physical exercise. My favourite yoga practice would have to be vinyasa and arm balances, being an artist at heart. I can’t resist the beauty of the poses, shapes, the strength and the grace of the human form. Thereby aerials were naturally the next progression in the journey. I like variety and I like to feel challenged, and the real beauty of aerial arts is that it just doesn’t feel like exercise as I am not a gym person, in any shape or form. I don’t even know how to turn on those gym machines. But in aerials, you combine height, spinning, drops, shapes, climbs, and dance in the practice, it is a very beautiful, inspiring art, where you continually progress on your journey, there is no end, and therefore there is no limit.
      The main challenges have been to balance strength and flexibility, you require them both, and I believe that finding the correct balance between these two fundamental elements is everyone’s Achilles’ heel. You need complete core to be able to lift your own body weight, and sometimes hang on just one arm or one ankle even, and you need to be able to bend, and open your heart and breath inverted. I have never found inversions challenging, but sometimes I have said a prayer or two before doing drops.
      Which inspiring books are currently on your reading list?
      I am a book worm! Currently, I am reading Be Water my Friend the true teachings of Bruce Lee by Shannon Lee, which is a remarkably beautiful book, filled with inspirational quotes and life teachings, while continually focusing on the fact that we are all becoming, and we should enjoy the journey of becoming, despite the obstacles. The cup should be empty, because that is the purpose of the cup, and then, of course, you get to fill it. I am also reading The Secret Lives of Colour by Kassia St Clair, a real dream of a book for any artist, it reveals the history and story of different colour pigments, their symbolism and meaning, e.g. gold is the colour of desire. How beautiful is that?
      What are your health and wellness goals for 2021?
      I never have actual health goals per se, but they usually tie into my aspirations for new experiences. I have a habit of trying to learn or experience a new hobby or activity with each new year. 2021 shall be the year of the horse! I plan on horse riding every week and galloping across the sand dunes. Other than that, I already have an abundant schedule which includes snowboarding and diving every week. In general, I would say I lead quite an active lifestyle, which is a blessing.

      Do you have any pre-bedtime rituals?
      I try to get into bed as early as I can, the earlier, the better. This ritual usually requires me to cause a distraction in order to sneak off early, while everyone else stays up. But apart for an early night, I don’t have any beauty regime per se apart from brushing my teeth. I do always review my to-do lists at night and see what I can tick off for the next day. My to-do lists are biblical, they are categorized from year to month to week. The more organised you are, the more time you have to do the things.
      This issue is ‘The Positivity Issue’ – how do you stay positive?
      Well I always watch a lot of Disney, aside from that, I stay hydrated and active, I make sure that I start the morning with great expectations, I get excited when I finish my morning sketch, and I am happy to meet my friends in the aerial studio, it’s all about the little things, that end up adding up I guess. I am an extremely visual person, so I take a lot of comfort in my surroundings, I love beautiful spaces or places that hold memories. I like to live a life of appreciation, and I appreciate the knowledge that I can learn every day, and I appreciate my personal efforts in that I try to make every day count, nothing should be wasted. It is a difficult trick to make sure that the mind takes nothing for granted, and in this way, everything has a purpose. When I do feel down, I try to understand my mood, and then what strategy I can apply to fix it or clean it. Sadness only comes when we feel defeated, and so I always ask myself “what does it do to your heart?” and I genuinely let it go because I need all my time to do the things I love. I live a life abundant with hobbies and beautiful friends, and they keep me flowing.
      January’s – ‘The Positivity Issue’ – Download Now
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied More

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      I’m Focusing on Skincare Right Now—This is My Current Favorite Product

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      Having all of this time on my hands has encouraged me to delve into new hobbies. I started bullet journaling—complete with fancy pens and highlighters. I started doing my own manicures. I took a leadership class on Skillshare. And I’ve gotten neck-deep in skincare.Now, listen: I know I say the same “I’m lazy about skincare” line in every story like this, and it’s true. But I’ve always enjoyed it, nonetheless. I like knowing about what can make our skin tick, from what products and ingredients to use for different skin concerns to what’s trending in dermatologist offices, Sephora, and more. I might be more of a makeup girl, but any and all beauty products give me the buzz of excitement most people can only dream of. All of this to say, my skincare habits have definitely changed within the last few months, not only to keep up with stress acne, but as self-care in the morning and at the end of a long day.
      While making my dream skincare routine (which yes, I did put in my previously-stated bullet journal) a few months ago, I wanted to add a higher-potency vitamin C product to my morning routine. I had been using one from Dr. Loretta to ease into it, but I was ready to try something that would tackle my hyperpigmentation and dullness with a little more vigor. Maelove’s hero product, The Glow Maker Serum, stood out to me immediately.

      If you’ve lusted after some of the most popular vitamin C serums (Skinceuticals C E Ferulic and Ole Henrikson Truth Serum, for example), they all have a few things in common: a high vitamin C content with the addition of vitamin E and Ferulic Acid. Oh, and they’re all expensive AF. Maelove’s formula? It has all of those buzzy ingredients with a price tag under $30. 

      I’ve been using it pretty much daily (laziness doesn’t just go away overnight, people) for two months now, and I see all the hype and more. There’s a reason this product goes in and out of stock constantly: it works. 
      Vitamin C, E, and Ferulic Acid are a common pair in skincare—but why? In a 2005 study from Duke University Medical Center, ferulic acid paired with 15 percent L-ascorbic acid (AKA vitamin C) and 1 percent alpha-tocopherol (a type of vitamin E) “improved chemical stability and doubled photoprotection.” Other studies, such as one from Mount Sinai Medical Center’s Department of Dermatology in 2007, suggest that vitamin C and E are “synergistic,” meaning they work best when put together. Basically, all of this science-jargon to say: there’s weight in using these ingredients together, and the Maelove serum combines it all right there for you. 
      My skin has broken out on and off since I started using it (thanks, Retin-A!), but my scars are fading much faster than usual. My skin also feels smoother and just overall clearer—I might have a few active zits, but my face has clarity and looks brighter. My morning skincare routine is pretty bare-bones, but I still feel like my skin is prepped and ready for makeup or to just look good on its own. 
      After cleansing in the morning, I pat Glow Maker on my skin with my fingertips. It has a really thin, liquid consistency that goes on easily. It does make my face quite tacky, but once I apply moisturizer, that goes away. I immediately wash my hands because the vitamin C stains your palms almost like a self-tanner would. Then, I go over it with a moisturizer and sunscreen, and I’m good for the day!
      As far as the scent, I don’t notice it and find it to be very mild on the spectrum of horrible-smelling vitamin C serums.

      How it looks on the skin with a little moisturizer—this product has hyaluronic acid as well, so it really plumps the skin and makes it look VERY glowy (hence, Glow Maker). 

      It’s rare for me to like every single thing about a product (I’m a little critical, what can I say), but I really have no complaints about this serum. I’ve been pining after the Skinceuticals since my dermatologist recommended it, but the $166 price tag just isn’t in my budget. This Maelove serum has a really similar ingredient list for a mere quarter of the price. With over 6,300 reviews (most of them five stars!), many say it works as well if not better than the one over five times the price. With free shipping and returns, I mean, you really can’t go wrong.  More

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      My Hair Is the Healthiest It’s Ever Been—and I Owe It All to These 8 Things

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      About a year ago, I caught a glimpse of the back of my head in a fitting room mirror and was absolutely horrified. I’d known my hair wasn’t exactly my best feature; years of box dye, wonky haircuts, and barely taking care of it will do that to you. But I wasn’t prepared for how damaged, dry, and broken my hair looked like, especially in the back. I immediately grabbed my phone and booked a hair appointment, but the real work happened afterward when I finally started taking proper care of my locks.Since then, my hairdresser has commented endlessly on how much healthier my hair looks and feels, but I noticed a major difference when I went through my camera roll and saw how short my hair was in fall 2018 and my big chop in 2019 compared to how it’s looking now in January 2021. But the difference isn’t just about length; my hair has never felt healthier probably in my life. 

      Everything You Need to Know About My Hair:
      Color-treated blonde
      Very fine
      Thin from dyes and poor nutrition (I had an eating disorder for eight years)
      My diet is pretty balanced; I enjoy a protein-topped salad for lunch most days, but I also eat a heaping bowl of noodles at least three nights a week. I also get at least 80 oz. of water every day, but I try to aim for 128 when I can. (My diet and water intake have only been this great for about five months–the beginning of quarantine, I wasn’t as kind to my body, but I’m working on it!)
      My hair will never be down to my waist and thick and luscious; that isn’t my goal. (Only in my dreams!) But healthy, soft, shiny, strong, volumized hair is.

      The Steps I Took

      1. Eating extra protein
      Changing up my diet was one of the biggest proponents, in my opinion, of the major change of my hair. My hair was definitely doing better once I did all of these nine things, but I’ve noticed the biggest difference since I shifted my diet the last six months. I read a few books and articles and spoke to a dietician who finally helped me squash the myths I had about my food intake, particularly how much protein I was eating. I wasn’t getting nearly enough, so I basically doubled how much I was eating prior. Hair is largely made up of protein, so it makes sense why upping your intake would lead to thicker, stronger strands. 
      I increased the protein in my diet through eggs, chicken, turkey, peanut butter, avocados, protein powder, broccoli, tuna, oatmeal, and Greek yogurt.
      READ: How to Sneak Protein Into Your Meals

      2. Olaplex
      Everyone sings the praises of Olaplex No. 3, and I do that love product as well, but I’ve noticed the biggest change in my hair since I added No. 6, the leave-in treatment. I use it every single time I wash my hair as a leave-in product. I notice immediately when I don’t use it because my hair looks and feels so much better. The product detangles, prevents flyaways, and leaves my hair smooth and soft, but I’ve experienced the biggest change in using it over time. Just like the No. 3, it’s a bond-builder, meaning it goes into your hair and actually repairs it from the inside out instead of masking the problem like most treatments. 

      3. A blunt cut
      This might not help everyone, but my hair was so broken off in different parts that I needed a solid haircut to start fresh and even out the lengths of my hair. Starting with a short, blunt cut gave me a clean canvas to keep growing out my hair. Getting off all the dead even made my hair look thicker and healthier, which I’ll take over growing out my long, damaged hair anyway. 

      4. Treating my hair like my skin
      Ever since I read about adopting a nighttime hair care routine just like you would skincare, I’ve focused on treating my hair just like I do my skin (which is with many, many products, some manifestation, and so much love). This meant I created a routine that I do pretty much every night to keep my hair in check. No matter what, I always brush my hair before bed–no ifs, ands, or buts. This keeps my hair tangle-free while I sleep, causing fewer snags on the pillowcase and less breakage. Plus, it redistributes any oils in my hair that have built up on my roots after a long day. I notice since doing this my hair is much more manageable and so much softer.
      Then, I assess if I’ll be washing my hair the next day or not. If I’m washing my hair, I really go in with oils, scalp massages, and moisturizing products to leave on overnight. Not only is it super relaxing, but my hair has benefited from all the extra moisture, especially my scalp. I notice less irritation and my style lasts longer because it’s not overproducing oils to make up for how dry it is. This is my routine:
      Brush my hair with a boar bristle brush
      Apply aloe vera gel (it’s really calming and soothing on the scalp and sinks in quickly) or an oil to my scalp and massage in for 3-5 minutes
      Apply a treatment oil to my ends 
      Brush through with a regular brush (I use an old one that I don’t mind getting oils all over)
      I also will use any leftover products on my hands from my skincare routine on my hair, such as my hyaluronic acid serum, moisturizer, and oil. My hair needs the moisture too! Once a month, I’ll do my Olaplex No. 3 treatment overnight. 
      If I’m not washing my hair, I’ll usually just use a very small amount of oil on the very ends and use a boar bristle brush to pull any of my natural hair oils from my scalp through to my ends. 
      Another important part of my nighttime hair routine is never putting it in a bun or ponytail to sleep. Which brings me to …

      5. Sleeping with a silk pillowcase
      You’ve heard this tip time and time again, but I am here to announce that it is not a farce. We’re not lying when we say it truly makes a difference. Using a satin pillowcase, my hair had fewer tangles and my bedhead wasn’t nearly as intense. But I noticed a major difference when I upgraded to the Slip pillowcase. Because of this, I always keep my hair down at night. The breakage at the back of my hair was largely caused by the friction of my head on the pillow at night (I am a bit of a hard sleeper), as well as ponytails and buns at the back of my head. My breakage there is now largely nonexistent, and I swear it’s because of these two swaps.

      6. Investing in my hair color
      I gave up box dye after high school, but I still wasn’t getting regular salon treatments, especially in terms of my color. I tried a few different stylists, opting for the cheapest salons I could find to save a buck. When I noticed my hair was in shambles, I researched a salon and stylist who would be the best for my hair, not my wallet. I’m not saying you should spend your whole paycheck on hair color, don’t get me wrong, but if you’re going to invest in all of these products and tools, why not spend a little more on a colorist who will use quality products and tools on your hair? 
      Not only does my stylist use as minimal bleach as possible to get my desired look, but after enough time, she’s gotten to know my hair type and texture. She knows my hair won’t ever be thick and luscious like a goddess, but she knows how to fake it. She holds me accountable to regular trims (when there isn’t a pandemic, of course) and treats my hair with tender loving care every time she touches it. It’s a self-care expense for sure, but it’s also kept the health of my hair on the uptrend big time, and for that, it’s worth it.

      7. Limiting my dry shampoo use
      I have the pandemic to thank for this, but I stopped using dry shampoo like my life depended on it every other day, and the health of my scalp improved ten-fold. Dry shampoo is lovely every now and then, but piling it on my scalp almost daily was destroying my already itchy, irritated scalp. My nighttime hair routine definitely helps keep my oils at bay, but when duty calls, I still reach for dry shampoo sometimes. When I go back to working in an office, I’ll be investing in a few more hats. 

      8. Use high-quality heat tools
      You can tell me over and over again to give up heat-styling my hair, but it will never, ever happen. I love styling my hair way too much for that. But the one swap I did make was tossing old, crusty, high-heat tools for products that were designed with hair health in mind. It’s the least I could do! Plus, my style looks less frizzy, lasts longer, and overall looks better. My two favorites that help me achieve just about any look: a blow dryer that doesn’t get too hot and doesn’t fry my hair and a curling iron with a titanium barrel and changeable heat settings. 

      Kristin Ess
      Beach Wave Curling Iron

      This is one of the best curling irons I’ve tried, especially at the price point. My curls are never frizzy or dry-looking, and they last a long time. Plus, my hair never looks or feels fried or damaged like other curling irons have in the past.

      Cura Professional Digital Ionic Hair Dryer

      Since getting bangs, I cannot live without a blow dryer. I have to blow dry my bangs, or else they look disheveled (and not even in a cute 2020 Taylor Swift way). So finding a high-quality blow dryer was at the top of my list last year, and I’ve loved this one. It’s not outrageously priced (one day I’ll experience the luxury that is Dyson… one day!), but it still feels luxe to use and my hair dries quickly. But the best part is that my hair never looks fried, gets tangled, or feels crunchy (my biggest pet peeves with low-quality blow dryers).

      My Favorite Products:

      Elizavecca
      Collagen Coating Hair Protein Treatment

      This is the best deep conditioner I have ever used—and I’ve tried dozens of high-end formulas. I use this once a week, and it leaves my hair smooth, soft, and as virgin-like as I’ve ever seen. You’d think I never went near bleach in my life based on how moisturized my hair feels with this! It’s so affordable too, but that’s simply a bonus for how high quality the product is.

      Boar and Nylon Bristle Brush

      A celebrity hairstylist once recommended using a boar bristle brush if you have combination hair (dry ends, oily roots—the story of my life) because the bristles help distribute those scalp oils through the rest of your hair evenly. I use this every night before bed, and I notice I can by using less dry shampoo because of it. Total game-changer.

      Moroccan Oil
      Moroccanoil Treatment

      This is the cornerstone of my nighttime hair routine. Oiling up my ends after a long day feels like bliss, especially with this because it smells amazing. I use this as a styling oil, a treatment, an overnight product, and more.

      No. 3 Hair Perfector

      If you have damaged, color-treated, or relaxed hair, invest in this product and use it once a week, and you’ll watch your hair transform over time. Be warned: this isn’t a deep conditioner, so it won’t give you the best-hair-of-your-life after one use like my above fave. It’s meant to be used over time because it works from the inside out. (And anyone who’s used it can tell you, it works.)

      Silk Pillowcase

      Is there any other silk pillowcase on the market? I love how easy and accessible this one is. Plus, it’s so pleasant to sleep with. I love that there’s a zipper, so your pillow stays put. It’s the little things.

      Bread Beauty Supply
      Hair Oil Everyday Gloss

      This is a new addition to my routine, and it is so lovely. It’s a little thick for my hair (which I knew going in—it’s supposed to be amazing on thick, textured, coily, and curly hair types, which obviously I do not have) during the day, but it is absolutely divine to put on my hair at night or as a treatment. I also love using the tiniest amount just at the ends to keep them looking fresh on second-day hair.

        More

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      in beauty and fashion

      The Best Makeup for Dry, Winter Skin

      by

      There comes a few times of the year when I, a makeup-obsessed beauty writer, dread putting on makeup, and it’s always the first few weeks of winter. The air is dry, our skin is suffering, and the motivation to put something on that will inevitably suck the life out of my already distressed skin is lacking. But this year, I have these eight tricks up my sleeve to tackle those times: 

      1. Glowy Foundation
      A really fresh base is the start of a solid makeup routine, especially if you have dry skin. Opt for a foundation with a glowy finish. It won’t get stuck on dry patches or make your skin feel tight after you’ve been wearing it a long time. Plus, it might even help hydrate your skin!

      2. Creamy Concealer
      In the same vein as a glowy foundation, choose a creamy concealer that blends effortlessly. These will usually have a satin/glowy finish, which makes a radiant foundation perfectly or is gorgeous worn on its own.

      3. Light Powder
      If you can’t get away without powdering your face for long days, there are powders on the market specifically made for dry skin types. These usually have a very light, finely-milled texture and might have pearls or a glowy finish. When used lightly all over the face or just pinpointed underneath the eyes, your makeup will stay in place without getting cakey and settling into any lines.

      4. Cream Blush
      To keep the glowy look on your cheeks, a cream blush is a great addition. Not only does this blend seamlessly into foundation and other base products, but a little blush will make your winter skin look alive and bright—even when you feel the opposite. 

      5. Blendable Bronzer
      If you want to use a cream bronzer, that’s great, but if you like the look of a powder one, just make sure you’re using something with a blendable formula. A bronzer that sticks to dry skin or applies in patches all over the face is a no-go, but these three blend easily with a brush over powder and liquid products. 

      6. Liquid Highlighter
      Highlighter is a secret weapon in the makeup drawers of those with dry skin. Even when your skin feels like a desert, highlighter makes you look like a glowing, golden goddess. A liquid formula will blend into your other products and will look as natural as possible—while still looking blinding, of course. 

      7. Face Mist
      Refresh your makeup throughout the day with a glowy mist. These help turn a dehydrated, matte face into a revitalized makeup look in just one step. Don’t look to these to keep your makeup on all day though; instead, these keep your skin looking moisturized. Mist as often as you need to keep your skin from getting that “blah” end-of-the-day feeling.

      8. Lip Gloss
      When your lips need some seriously help after the weather turns freezing, go for a lip gloss instead of lipstick. Not only is gloss seriously trending, it’s ultra-hydrating and never settles into lines or emphasizes chapped lips. If you really want to hydrate your lips, opt for a creamy formula without any glitters. However, shimmery glosses really plump up your lips too. More

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      in lifestyle and culture

      Bella Hadid unveils a whole new look for 2021

      by

      There’s nothing like starting a new year with a refresh. Whether that be a spring clean of your home, a huge closet clear out or a change in routine.
      For supermodel Bella Hadid, she’s opted for a whole new look going into 2021.

      The 24-year-old unveiled her new hairstyle on Instagram just a couple of days ago, and it seems the model has taken some inspiration from an iconic girl band member – Geri Haliwell, previously known as Ginger Spice in the Spice Girls.
      Opting for ginger and orange streaks framing her face, Hadid showed off her new hairdo in a mirror selfie to her 37.2 million followers on Instagram.

      Hadid is normally seen rocking her signature brunette locks, but she appears to be truly embracing the ’90s hair trend which is everywhere right now.

      The trendy hairstyle has been making the rounds on popular social media platform recently. Many variations of the trend have emerged including platinum blonde streaks, bright prink streaks, bright blue and more.
      And now Hadid has jumped on the trend, we’re hedging our bets it’s about to become even more popular.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Bella Hadid Instagram More

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      in beauty and fashion

      7 Ways to Boost Skin Glow (Without Changing Your Products)

      by

      Your mom has probably told you 1000+ times that “it’s what’s on the inside that counts.” While she meant that your kindness and intellect matter more than how you look (true, mom!), she was also onto a powerful beauty hack. Everything from dull skin to a breakout can reflect what’s going on internally, whether it’s imbalances in the gut or stress and anxiety. Therefore, you can double up on foundation and drown yourself in a $100 serum, but that won’t matter if you’re not prioritizing both what you put on and in your body—and maybe more importantly, how you treat your body.For the other skincare-obsessed and beauty queens out there, this is good news: there are lots of ways to heal the skin and achieve a radiant glow without spending even more $$$ on mists, masks, and eye creams (that won’t even fit into our overflowing beauty cabinets, am I right ladies??). Because you deserve the secret to achieve flawless skin, here are seven ways to boost glow (and not one of them is buying a pricey lotion):

      1. Take a supplement
      A modern-day beauty routine is not just reserved for the vanity in your bathroom. No, beauty routines are extending into your pantries and refrigerators too. I’m talking about skincare that you can ingest: formulas, pills, and powders that clear skin and boost glow from the inside out. We love Rae Wellness for supplements made with evidence-based, high-quality ingredients at a very affordable price. One of my favorite effective, beauty-boosting products is the Vegan Collagen Capsules, which support your own natural collagen production to renew and restore skin from within. I love it because it’s plant-derived collagen (most collagen brands come from animal products); contains super nutrients like vitamin C, A, B, E, and minerals to support growth; and can easily be taken as a pill with your other vitamins. 
      For more beauty supplements that can easily be added into your regular routine, try the Beauty Drops, which contain biotin to support healthy hair, skin, and nails, and the Hydration Drops, which contain an ingestible form of hyaluronic acid (AKA that trendy moisturizing ingredient in all of your serums and face masks). These drops work on a cellular level to boost radiance and hydrate the skin from the inside-out. Add to a smoothie, coffee, or glass of water for a lit-from-within glow that you don’t have to try too hard (or spend a lot of $$$) to get. You’ve been warned: people will ask you what your secret is. 

      Source: Danielle Moss

      2. Get more sleep
      You already know that getting 7-9 hours of (quality) sleep a night is crucial for the entire body to function properly. But if waking up groggy the next day and an increase in sugar cravings doesn’t motivate you to turn off Netflix at a decent hour, maybe your skin health will. Our bodies need sleep for more reasons than just recharging and having dreams about Timothée Chalamet: a lack of sleep can cause inflammation in the body, which can result in inflammation in the organs–including the skin (AKA the largest organ). If you do get enough rest, you can also experience benefits like fewer wrinkles, less puffy eyes, and yes, a more glowing complexion. It brings a whole new meaning to “beauty sleep,” doesn’t it?

      Source: @simplytandya

      3. Prioritize gut health
      The gut-skin connection is real, people. One study showed how the gut microbiome may be connected to acne and irritations, while other studies have found a correlation between gut problems and skin conditions. Call it a gut feeling (get it?), but I think of skin health as a map to what’s going on with my gut; if I have a breakout, I know something might be going on in the digestive system, whether it was eating too much sugar or that I haven’t been getting enough dietary fiber.
      “The gut is where we make nutrients, metabolize hormones, detoxify enzymes, neutralize pathogens, and make neurotransmitters,” explained Carla Oates, gut health expert and founder of The Beauty Chef. “It’s super important to get your digestive health in check in order to feel well and, of course, experience clear, glowing skin.” Try these ways to improve your gut by the end of the week. 

      4. Eat your fruits and veggies
      Just like processed foods might cause breakouts, and eating sugar might cause premature aging (haven’t you heard of “sugar face?“), certain foods can have the reverse effect on skin health. “Since we are what we eat, it’s no surprise that diet and beauty go hand-in-hand,” said McKenzie Jones, RDN, CLT. “Foods that promote a healthy, balanced lifestyle also promote youthful-looking skin and can help keep you looking radiant from the inside, out.” Try foods like avocados, tomatoes, lemons, sweet potatoes, blueberries, and leafy greens for some amazing superfoods that will boost skin glow. For more foods that can improve your complexion, click here. 

      Source: @ashbegash

      5. Stay hydrated
      When I was 13, I read an interview with Gabrielle Union where she said that her flawless skin (which, let’s be real, is Flawless with a capital “F”) is all thanks to drinking multiple gallons of water a day, and no, I have not forgotten it since. Looks like Gabrielle Union was onto something: water is truly a cure-all for every skincare woe. Drinking water moisturizes the skin on a deep, cellular level (can your night cream do that?). Not to get too science-y on you, but skin cells are made of water (just like every other cell in the body). If the skin is not getting a sufficient amount of water, skin cells cannot function properly. Thank you, Gab, for the major beauty hack. Now go refill your water bottles! Bonus hydration points if you add the Hydration Drops.

      6. Sweat more often
      While it may not help you smell amazing, sweating can help your skin look amazing. That’s right: sitting in a pool of your own sweat (whether it’s from a tough workout class or an infrared sauna) can help clear up your skin and give you a dewy complexion. “When our body temperature rises, our blood vessels dilate,” said Dr. Whitney Bowe, a New York-based dermatologist. “This is called vasodilation, and it increases the flow of blood to our skin. Over the long term, vasodilation has a positive impact on the vasculature that supports our skin, helping to keep our skin looking healthy and youthful.” In other words, your favorite hot yoga class is not only good for your body, but good for your skin. Just make sure to wash your face soon after to avoid breakouts from clogged pores (the act of sweating is beneficial, but dried sweat sitting on your skin for too long is not). 

      Source: @cynthialions

      7. Keep stress levels low
      You already know that chronic stress is bad for you and just isn’t fun, but you can add “boost skin glow” to your list of reasons to take PTO and start a meditation practice. Some studies have found that cortisol (the stress hormone) can lead to clogged pores, while other studies show that stress may negatively affect the skin’s water retention (leading to dryness). Not to mention that stress can also cause anything from rashes to wrinkles. Prioritize stress relief in your life by scheduling more breaks, unplugging more often, and perfecting an unwind routine after work to let go of workday stress. 

      This post contains a sponsored inclusion of Rae Wellness, but all of the opinions within are those of The Everygirl editorial board. More