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      6 Beauty Gadgets We Love At Every Price Point

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      While I believe the basics are what really give you good skin, hair, and makeup, I can’t pretend that I don’t love a little something extra every now and then. For sure, I love a good mask here and there, and I often buy into the latest craze or trend (in the name of science and my career, duh). But I can’t pretend that I don’t indulge in the power of a beauty tool to do some of the heavy lifting. Sure, it’s an investment, but we parade our faces around every single day, whether it’s a trip to the grocery store where you’ll inevitably see that person you were in love with a few years ago but never made a move, your once-a-week video call for work, or just stepping by your mirror a few times a day to catch a glimpse at the one and only face you’ll see IRL for a while (too harsh?). If you thought the newest iOS update and virtual-everything were the biggest innovations of 2020, think again. We don’t have to put on a few lotions and potions and just “hope” it does the job anymore; there are effective, researched, and FDA-approved gadgets that do the job without all the guesswork. They’re the smartphones of the beauty world. When I’m looking for a new gadget, I check Nordstrom first. They have everything from $20-30 tools to splurge-worthy devices you’d find at a tech convention. Because they can be a little confusing (you put what where?!), we’re breaking down six different gadgets for every type of person and budget.

      1. Wants a pick-me-up that doesn’t break the bank: Ice Roller

      An ice roller has become an essential in our editor’s post-hangover, sick-day, need-a-pick-me-up-ASAP kits. This one is made with stainless steel, meaning it’ll stay cold even once you take it out of the fridge. Plus, it’s easy to clean and sanitize and will hold up—especially if you plan to use it basically every Monday-Thursday morning (we can relate!). Pop this in the fridge or freezer, and after cleansing and moisturizing (but before sunscreen), use this to massage in any of those creams or oils. It’ll tackle the puffiness, help your skincare products absorb better, and help you start your day with a little relaxation. Over time, you’ll notice your skin even gets less puffy because you’re used to moving all of that lymphatic fluid around. Don’t sleep on this if you love a good self-care moment.

      2. Wants a quick self-care addition to their routine: Nurse Jamie Roller

      You’ve likely seen this all over the place, especially if you’re a fan of celebrity beauty videos. But if you’re like us, you probably have little idea of what it actually does. There’s a reason celebs and beauty influencers alike swear by this facial roller: it feels like a red carpet-worthy lymphatic drainage massage right at home. This tool houses 24 massaging stones that when rolled across the face lift, tighten, revive, and enhance your natural features. Nurse Jamie created this product to replicate the experience of one of her in-spa facial massages from the comfort of your beauty vanity. This tops the list as the most routine-friendly option, as it only takes a few minutes to massage all over your entire face and can be done as-needed or over time for the best results.
      Not ready to splurge on a Nuface? This is a great less-expensive alternative that tackles many of the same issues, just without the microcurrent.

      3. Takes facial massage very seriously: Vibrating T-Bar

      My at-home facial massage is great and all, but I’m craving the hands of an esthetician who treats my face like a bowl of kale more than anything in the world. Sound like you? I found the at-home product to save you while you’re staying home (and cost about half as much). This T-bar massager uses vibrations to mimic the feeling of a real massage, so it’s a great addition to your facial massage routine. Grab your favorite facial oil, cream, or serum, and use this in upward strokes across the whole face. Focus between the eyebrows for an extra-relaxing massage, on the neck and chest to de-stress after a long day, and on the jawline to release tension. If you’re craving a little “ooh” and “ahh,” this is the one for you.

      4. Wants a salon-quality treatment at home: PMD Microdermabrasion

      As we enter the winter months, I’m putting off facials and treatments that I can’t do at home for as long as possible. Why leave my house when I don’t have to? The first treatment I turned to was the PMD Pro for at-home microdermabrasion. Microdermabrasion has been a popular skincare treatment for about a decade, as it helps improve skin tone and texture without all the down time of peels and lasers. It’s good for practically every skin concern—aging, acne, scarring, texture, sun damage, melasma, and more—and is suitable for dry skin types too. PMD created the first at-home microdermabrasion device, offering the same results as an in-office procedure right at home. 
      The PMD uses an exfoliating disc with vacuum suction to remove the top layer of dead skin and triggers the immune response in the skin to create new layers and cells. It’s a really easy treatment to incorporate into your usual routine, as it only takes a few minutes once per week. This kit comes with multiple exfoliating discs ranging from ultra-sensitive to intense which allows you to customize the treatment for your skin type and grow with the product as you use it more. Not sure where to start? This tutorial has everything you need to know.

       
      5. Looking for a long-term change without invasive treatments: NuFACE

      Trinity Facial Toning Device

      This has a rechargeable base that can sit on your vanity and has the option to remove the head and use other attachments, like their Eye and Lip Enhancer that targets smile lines, crows feet, and eyebrow furrows; and their Wrinkle Reducer, which uses red LED light therapy to reduce and prevent fine lines and wrinkles. If anti-aging is your NuFACE goal, get this one.

      Mini Facial Toning Device

      If toning and contouring is your #1 concern, I recommend this one—it’s a little less expensive but still has all the microcurrent you need.

      When I first heard of this product, I was pretty skeptical. Electricity? In my face? But once I watched a few videos, this one in particular, I wanted one immediately. NuFACE is described as a non-invasive approach to anti-aging that is both instant and achieved over time. Our face naturally loses current as we age, and this results in sagging skin, loss of firmness, and as we all know it, wrinkles. The NuFACE uses microcurrent that is similar to the current our body naturally produces to help rebuild it, resulting in a natural, easy way to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, improve the contours of your skin (more on that in a minute!), and improve skin’s tone and texture. 
      I’ll be the first to admit that if there’s one gene my parents have graciously given me, it’s tight skin that looks much younger than it is. What can I say, my mom is 50 and looks 35. But I came to NuFACE to help with lifting and toning my face, and it did the job flawlessly. After using Nuface for five days a week for a few months, the shape of my face basically changed. I have very little definition between my neck and jawline, and it’s been a source of self-esteem issues for as long as I can remember. NuFACE works to lift and tone the bottom half of my face, giving my jawline and cheekbones more definition than I’ve ever had. It’s basically a workout for your face, but the microcurrent goes deeper into the skin’s layers to actually work those muscles underneath. If you deal with puffiness (especially on the lower portions of your face) or trouble with your facial definition, this ends up being a pretty inexpensive alternative to other, much more invasive procedures. And if it helps me push off wrinkles and fine lines a little bit longer, I’ll take it!

      6. Wants to turn good-hair-day into every day—and willing to splurge for it: Dyson Airwrap

      If you thought Dyson had already outdone themselves with their original Internet-breaking blow dryer, think again, because this baby is one of the finest pieces of equipment I’ve ever laid my eyes on. Dyson created this product with all hair types in mind, so whether you’re looking to go from straight-to-curly, curly-to-straight, frizzy-mess to bombshell-waves, flat-and-lackluster to volumized-goddess, or just bad hair day to good one, this product does it all. The Airwrap uses air styling without extreme heat to transform the hair, so you get your preferred style with less damage. It’s also basically effortless to use because the air styler attracts the hair and wraps it up for you—say goodbye to burns and gloves whenever you want waves and curls!
      We are very aware that a hair product shouldn’t cost this much, but you can take a few things into account when thinking about this purchase. I love this product because it cuts down on your hair tools, meaning you can ditch the five curling irons, three straighteners, and two half-working blow-dryers in your bathroom cabinet once and for all. It includes six attachments: two for creating waves and curls, a brush to smooth and control frizz, a brush to create volume, a brush specifically designed to smooth fine hair, and a dryer. So if we do some quick math, you’ll see that between purchasing multiple hair tools (anywhere from $100 to $250 a pop), blow-dry appointments ($50, plus tip), and always having a good hair day (priceless), it stacks up to be a pretty solid investment. And even that aside, if it’s in your budget and makes you happy, we’re all for it. 

      This post is sponsored by Nordstrom, but all of the opinions within are those of The Everygirl editorial board. More

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      in lifestyle and culture

      6 healing products to soothe your skin during pregnancy

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      Breakouts can show during the first and second trimesters of your pregnancy when hormones start to fluctuate and produce excess oil and clog up pores. It can really knock your confidence and even push you to extreme treatments.
      Those bumps might be hard to look at, but trust us when we say you’re not the only one who is struggling with the change in the oil chemistry that causes your skin to bloom. Throw in a dramatic lifestyle shift and sleepless nights and you have yourself a perfect cocktail for breakouts.

      There are numerous ways to start treating your complexion from the inside in, but while you’re breastfeeding it’s best to start with addressing the top layers of the skin. Our edit consists of ingredients that are gentle on your complexion and nothing that contain salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide and vitamin A and are made of natural ingredients, so you can be sure they are safe to use during and post-pregnancy.

      Tea Tree Oil Dhs64 The Body Shop; Illuminate Face Polish Dhs135 Shirley Conlon Organics; ClearCalm Non Drying Spot Treatment Dhs74 REN

      Sea Aster & Wild Oat Instant Calm Redness Serum Dhs240 Pai Skincare; Blemish Treatment Gel Dhs152 Grown Alchemist; Azelaic Acid Suspension 10% Dhs27 The Ordinary
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied More

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      10 Holiday Gifts You Can Buy Now and Save a Ton of $$

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      The holidays are right around the corner, having us scrambling to find the best gifts at affordable prices that won’t break our budget. Prepare in advance for a successful holiday season with some inexpensive gifts you can buy now that will save you a few extra dollars and time shopping. Offering amazing discounts on top designers and brands, Gilt City, an online shopping and lifestyle site, has you covered this upcoming holiday season, with the best in throw blankets, menswear, and more that keeps your budget in mind. They offer a variety of gift ideas that will sure to make your loved ones grateful this holiday season! 

      Buy a gift that your favorite homebody can wear and cozy up in this winter. Affordable gift options like sweatshirts and hoodies are always a staple in any wardrobe for the winter. Add to your loved one’s wardrobe this holiday for less with some warm tops to lounge around in. With Gilt City, you can find loungewear gifts at an affordable price from brands Eberjey and more at $50 off your $150 purchase. For that price, every family member can have a matching pair! 

      Give the gift of affordable beauty this holiday with skin creams, oils, and moisturizers that won’t make a dent in your gift-giving budget. Gilt City has tons of brands that offer budget-friendly (and skin-type friendly) beauty products, like moisturizers, repair masks, and even products to de-stress the skin like the instant refreshing oil from Elemis, at up to 50% off merchandise credits when you shop. It’s the perfect gift for your loved one’s next in-home spa day. 

      Take that outdated tie box set or cologne out of your shopping cart and give the man in your life something he can wear with no fuss. Gift him some wardrobe staples he can mix and match to wear to work, in the home, or on date night this winter. Menswear that’s easy to wear and maintain shouldn’t be costly; Mizzen + Main has a collection of machine-washable and dress and casual shirts, pants, pullovers and more, at up to 60% off merchandise credits through Gilt City, which makes shopping for the man in your life this holiday season stress-free. 

      Subscription boxes can sometimes feel like re-gifted boxes of hand-me-downs after being picked through and taking out all of the good stuff, but with boxes like Rachel Zoe’s CURATEUR, gifting one of these boxes will be the premier, affordable gift for your loved one. Gilt City makes it easy to purchase one of these subscription boxes, filled with products from top beauty and fashion brands at only $69.99 (normally $99.99) with a free gift with purchase (a little holiday gift for yourself too!). 

      As soon as we hear the word “organic” with many skin care products, usually, a hefty price tag comes along with it. This holiday, you can gift mindful, sustainable beauty products that won’t come with the price. Organic beauty brands on Gilt City like French Girl Organics are up to 50% off merchandising credits that comes along with a free gift when you spend an extra $30 on your gifts. Organic doesn’t have to mean pricey; give the gift of beautiful sustainability this holiday for less. 

      We have all been relegated to our homes for the past few months, having to cancel travel plans throughout the year. Give the gift of travel this holiday season to get your loved ones out of the house and into a secluded retreat in nature. With up to 34% off credits to plenty of popular U.S. destinations through Gilt City, modern cabin rentals with travel rentals from Getaway and others could be the perfect gift for your loved ones to getaway safely within your gift-giving budget.

      It’s never a bad idea to give the gift of libations, especially during the holidays. Pair that bottle of wine with a few must-haves for your wine lover with a gift like a wine purifier or sulfite filters that will compliment their next wine-down. On Gilt City, Üllo has an amazing wine purifier and filters at up to 36% off that will save you a few extra dollars for a bottle of wine for yourself! 

      Cozy throw blankets can be affordable and made with quality material too. Give comfy throw blankets this holiday as a great gift for your loved ones to bundle up in, like these throw blankets from State Cashmere, made with 100% pure cashmere. Gilt City now has these blankets for up to 50% off, topping off your gift list with quality-made and affordable throws that will last through each season. 

      Every woman could use another bag. This holiday, get even more creative and thoughtful with these chic lunch bags for the working woman in your life from Modern Picnic. Now at 50% off on Gilt City, you can buy this functional bag ahead of the holiday season at an affordable price to you. Now, your loved one can eat lunch in style!

      Gifts for the home are always a great idea for the holidays. Beautiful handcrafted rugs, pillows, and bathroom essentials like towels are always much-needed items you can give as gifts for the holidays. Gilt City now has up to 40% off these textiles from Folks & Tales, which feature a variety of cozy home essentials to spruce up any loved one’s space.

      This post is sponsored by Gilt City, but all of the opinions within are those of The Everygirl editorial board. More

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      Where to Save Money in Your Skincare Routine—and Where to Invest

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      The beauty industry is predicted to exceed $716 billion in sales by 2025. Likely due to the pandemic, e-commerce was up 30 percent in March and April from the same time period in 2019, with beauty purchases alone showing a 38 percent increase. The market is filled with options and products for basically everything we need, and we’re shopping big time. But that doesn’t mean we have to spend all of our hard-earned cash.Especially with the popular “10-step routine” all over the Internet, skincare is daunting enough before you have to consider the price tag of the total regimen, and depending on what you’re hoping to accomplish with your skin, you are probably using different products between your day and nighttime applications.
      Truth is, while you can easily spend a lot of money on all the necessary bells and whistles, you definitely don’t have to. There are plenty of steps in a full skincare routine that can and should be budget-friendly to ensure that your best skin isn’t putting you into debt. Wondering where to save your coin and where to spend it instead? We’re breaking it down nice and easy for you.
      A good rule of thumb to follow is that any product that you wash off your face can be on the less expensive side, whereas you might notice a bigger difference investing in the products that stay on for hours. Remember this isn’t a foolproof system. I sometimes splurge on a cleanser and go drugstore for a moisturizer. It’s all about what works for your skin and your budget. But if you’re looking for a short guide, this is it. 

      Where to save

      Makeup Removers
      There is a multitude of “high-end” makeup removers on the market, and the concept has always been really baffling — all they are intended to do is dissolve makeup before cleansing. Thankfully, micellar water has come along to shift the trend toward more affordable and more effective, as well as cleansing balms. Always cleanse after using a makeup remover, especially if you are using a traditional oil-in-water style remover.

      Cleansers 
      Cleansers are utility products. You have to have them no matter what, and since you use them up to twice a day, they should be at a price point that you feel comfortable spending every other month or so.
      Since cleansers are quickly rinsed off and don’t have long enough contact with the skin, they aren’t actually effective at addressing problems and are usually more expensive because of these additional ingredients. Cleansers should have little to no frills—they are simply meant to remove makeup and debris and hydrate.

      Source: @inspiredbylynne

      Face Masks
      Whether you prefer sheet masks, cream masks, or clay masks, there is one common thread between them all: they’re not that expensive to make, and they shouldn’t be expensive to purchase. You can walk into most health food stores and buy all the necessary components of a good face mask, so don’t bother spending an arm and a leg on a treatment mask you will use once or twice a week.

      SPF
      Sunscreen is the exception to the rule above for a few reasons. Firstly, inexpensive sunscreens have their formulas down pat, so you almost can get better formulations for less money. Also, you’ll be reapplying sunscreen a lot. This is a product you go through much more quickly than others, especially if you spend a lot of time in the sun. Since daily sun protection is a non-negotiable step in every skincare routine, and for how much more of your skin you need to cover on your neck and chest as well as your face, stick to an affordable option that you can replace often.

      Where to spend

      Moisturizers + Oils
      It’s not a bad idea to spend money on moisturizers, but if you’re layering it over serums or treatments, then there really is no need to drop extortionate amounts of money on a moisturizer. As long as it is providing optimal hydration and protection, you’re good — that’s all a moisturizer is really intended to do. As your skin matures and you begin to incorporate more active ingredients such as acid-based treatments or retinol, then you’ll want to consider a moisturizer that includes peptides, which will cost a little extra.

      Serums
      In the same way that your moisturizer stays on your skin, your daily serum should be something that you really love because you’ll be applying it every day and it stays on your skin for hours. Ideally, you’ll want a serum that you can use day and night, so I prefer to focus on ingredients that work well with any acid exfoliation you might do as well as with SPF.

      Treatments
      A good treatment product is nowhere near few-and-far-between, as the market has been flooded with new options the last few years. However, a good treatment contains both high-quality acids (glycolic, lactic, mandelic, salicylic, for starters) or retinol with hydrating ingredients that balance the skin. Acids and retinol are known to sensitize the skin and cause irritation, so it’s imperative that those are combined with ingredients that bring the hydration back. Some treatments get washed off, but others, like retinol, stay on for long periods of time, meaning you’ll want something that plays well with your other products.

      Eye Creams
      The skin around your eyes is so thin and delicate that you want an eye cream that is made with high-quality ingredients and nourishing properties. Whether you’re tackling dark circles, wrinkle prevention or treatment, or puffiness, your eye cream should be something that you’re excited to use every day. 

      How do you save money on your own skincare routine?  More

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      What to Do on Sunday to Look Your Best All Week Long

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      The Sunday Scaries is a phenomenon that plagues us all one way or another. Whether you’re stressed out about some big work project coming up in the next week, all the public speaking you’ll have to do on Zoom meetings, what you’ll wear on that date on Friday, or how you’ll actually muster up the motivation to meal prep, the one thing you shouldn’t have to worry about is feeling confident and put-together all week. Maybe you’ll even work a bit smarter or more efficiently because you’re not fiddling with an ill-fitting garment or worrying about your chapped lips all day. 
      1. Find your inspiration
      Every Sunday, I sift through every style and beauty inspo board I’ve got to figure out what exactly I’m excited to wear that week. Some weeks I’m in the mood to dress to the nine’s every day, and others I’m living for athlesiure. Whatever your vibe is, figure it out before you even step foot in your closet or makeup collection to figure out what you’ll wear all week. Knowing what kind of pieces are striking your fancy makes it way easier to build outfits that are exciting to you rather than just pulling pieces together. 

      2. Line your outfits up in order in your closet 
      Once you’ve decided how you want to dress, you can actually focus on putting outfits together. I keep an “outfit ideas” list in my bullet journal to make this even easier for me, but go through your closet and pick out what you’ll feel comfortable in and excited to wear all week. This can be five trendy, fall outfits, or it can be five iterations of your favorite sweats and T-shirt combo; whatever you’re wearing, just get yourself excited to wear it. If your clothes are hanging, then this is an obvious one, but if you have them in drawers, you can set them up in a specific drawer for the week, lay them out on a dresser, or just put them on a different side of your closet. 

      View this post on Instagram

      BIO-INDIVIDUALITY means that no body is the same. While science and medicine is constantly in search of the perfect diet or the perfect supplement, every body is different. We react to ingredients differently, require nutrients differently, and crave foods differently. While one diet, lifestyle, or food may work for your body, it wouldn’t work for someone else’s. This is why I preach being your own guinea pig to find out what’s best for YOU. . And just like there’s no diet that’s right for everybody, there’s no skincare that magically improves everyone’s complexion. I want to introduce this bio-individual approach to skincare as a call to gain intuition on what’s best for YOU. Formulating your skincare routine based on the needs and reactions of your skin and lifestyle is the secret to get that “I Woke Up Like This” glow. . PS—I found @atollaskinlab this past year… it’s that cute little bottle with MY NAME ON IT… and it’s the most revolutionary skincare company I’ve found that understands the principle of bio-individuality. You get your own personal serum based on your concerns, pH levels, etc., which like, how bougie and chic is that!? Use code: “JOSIE20” to get your first serum and skin analysis kit for $20 #ad #skincare #holistichealth #iinhealthcoach #beauty #beautyhacks
      A post shared by JOSIE SANTI | Health Coach (@josie.santi) on May 6, 2020 at 2:06pm PDT

      3. Sort through your beauty routine
      After watching about a million “Shop My Stash” videos on YouTube, I’ve created a similar process of my own. Since I do my makeup at my desk and my makeup is held elsewhere, I bring everything over for the week that I want to use and put it in one of my drawers. On Sundays, I go through my collection and see which products I want to continue using that week and which I can put back. Usually, this is about a few things: how much use I’m getting out of them (I have a fair amount of products and like to use them all!), how convenient they are, if the shades are right (we are entering “fading summer tan” territory right about now), and what matches my inspiration for the week. Then, I go pull new products to use, whether it’s new products I’m trying or old favorites I want to add back into my collection. This is also a great time to pull forward items based on the events of the week. For example, I knew I’d be busy this week, so I grabbed my handy tinted brow gel instead of worrying about my shaping wax (which is amazing but a little more time consuming). 

      4. Do an at-home peel or resurfacing mask
      Now that you’re ready for the week, it’s time to pamper yourself. After you double-cleanse, go in with an at-home peel or resurfacing product to give your skin a deep cleanse and exfoliation. There are products like this for every skin type, even if you have really sensitive skin. Make sure you choose a product that contains hydrating ingredients that will balance your skin as it exfoliates, such as hyaluronic acid, glycerin, aloe, and other naturally-derived oils. You can also search for products that are made for more sensitive skin types, such as those containing mandelic or salicylic acid, as those are milder. I’ve created a whole Sunday ritual that I follow that includes a special skincare routine focusing on this type of product! 
      It’s imperative to read and follow the directions—many of these masks are meant to be left on anywhere from three minutes to 10 minutes. Don’t leave it on for too long to avoid irritation! 

      Renee Rouleau
      Triple Berry Smoothing Peel

      This is my current favorite at-home peel. It feels like you’ve gotten a facial in under 10 minutes!

      5. Focus on hydration
      If you’ve ever had a facial, you’ll know a short portion is usually dedicated to masks and peels, but once that’s over, it’s all about moisturizing your skin. Think of this in the same way. You’ve done your peel; now, you want to hydrate and soften the skin.

      6. Don’t try new products
      Although it’s exciting to get really into your skincare routine on a Sunday, avoid using any products that you’ve never tried before or don’t know if they’ll negatively impact your skin. The worst feeling is waking up on a Monday morning to a breakout or allergic reaction from a new product you were so excited to try. Stick with the basics here until you know what works for you. Pro tip: I always try new products on a certain night every week (for me, it’s Monday) because I know that if I wake up the next day with a breakout, I don’t have anywhere to be! 

      7. Do a deep teeth clean
      When was the last time you really got in there with your toothbrush, floss, and mouthwash? Your little two-minute hourglass timer for brushing your teeth from elementary school is calling your name. Grab your electric toothbrush and toothpaste of choice and do a full two-minute clean. Then, use your gloss, making sure to even get your molars and any plaque sitting on the top of your teeth. Swish around some mouthwash, add in some tongue-scraping, and your teeth will be looking shiny and brand new. 

      8. Do a facial massage
      I recently embarked on a journey to do facial massage every day for a month, and while I did fail and lose at around day #18, it made me appreciate it in a whole new way. Facial massage is definitely a self-care moment full of relaxation, but I’ve also noticed that my skin looks better. I wake up feeling refreshed and glowy from whatever oil I used, and it feels like my products penetrate better. I almost always follow a video, like this one from the LOML Lisa Eldridge and this playlist from another YouTuber I love who swears by facial massage. You can use your hands, a jade roller, a gua sha, or my favorite: ice rollers. 

      9. Try an at-home blowout
      The best mornings are when my hair is already done. When all that’s required of me is a simple touch-up, my morning is filled with bliss. So, be the person you want to thank in the morning by doing your hair before bed. I often find a blowout can look even better after you’ve slept on it because it has a little extra hold and grit. Our editors are obsessed with this Revlon styling tool that makes achieving a blowout at-home a total breeze. With a few products, you’ll feel like you just hit the salon. The key is to add dry shampoo before bed so it soaks up any oils throughout the night, leaving you with even less to worry about in the morning. I also use a boar bristle brush before bed, which according to celebrity hairstylist Irinel de León will absorb the oils from your scalp and brush through to the ends, keeping your roots clean and your ends moisturized. More

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      I’ve Tried a Lot of Beauty Products This Year, but I Won’t Stop Talking About These

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      Instead of your usual intro about how I love beauty products and have tried a lot of products this year (I’d probably tell you it’s part of my job!), I’m just going to cut right to the chase: I love these eight products with my heart and soul, and spending the time to tell you about them was like soup for the soul. After the year we’ve had, we all deserve a little time to sit here and chat about beauty products for a moment. Grab your beverage of choice (I’m drinking hot mint tea right now with a face mask on because sometimes WFH has its perks), maybe a snack, and your wallet—because I’m about to talk you into a few things and I’m not even sorry.

      The Glow Maker: Antioxidant Serum

      This had to be the first product on this list. I’ve written blurb after blurb about this product, and you can read my full review here. This is the first skincare product I’ve actually repurchased more than once, and I’m not even remotely close to being sick of it yet. I love that it works both instantly and over time because I don’t feel guilty when I skip a few days, but I also have noticed that my skin looks better with continued use. I *truly* will not stop telling people about this until they stop making it (Maelove, please never, ever do that). I’ve raved about it so much that even our editor Maddie’s boyfriend bought it—and after a date recently told me I had nice skin (flattery will get you everywhere), I convinced him to try it too. If I can convince a man who uses four-in-one shampoo as a face wash to buy a vitamin C serum, then you know it must be good (or that my powers of persuasion are just extremely high).

      Jeju Volcanic Blackhead Out Balm

      I texted our Graphic Designer Kelly the second I bought this because I was so excited to hopefully try something that would banish my blackheads for good. I used it once and saw a minimal difference, but now that I’ve used it a few more times, it is a godsend. I use it for skin gritting, and it works better than any other oil I’ve ever used. I’ve been using it a few times a week since I got it, and my nose has never looked clearer. If you suffer from blackheads or clogged pores, you’ll want a product like this in your skincare routine. And at less than $10 a pop, you might as well buy one for your BFF too.

      Elysium Naturals Co.
      Whipped Shea Body Butter

      The need for a good moisturizing body product is growing as the days get chillier and chillier, and last summer, I found the best one. This body butter saved me from shaving irritations and flaking sun-exposed skin, and now, it’s at the top of my list to tackle everything that comes with dry, winter skin. I use it on my elbows, knees, and ankles every night before bed, and my skin has never been softer. Plus, the lavender vanilla scent is glorious at bedtime. For the daytime, my favorite scent has been orangesicle—it smells so dreamy, and when I catch a whiff of it while I’m working, it immediately makes me happier. They’re releasing holiday scents soon, and I’ve already saved the money to buy this for everyone I know for Christmas.

      Maybelline
      Falsies Lash Lift Mascara

      I’ve been known to rave about mascaras on occasion. It’s the easiest makeup product that arguably makes the biggest impact—how can I not shout out the best ones?! After testing a lot of high-end formulas, I’m on a journey to find the best options at the drugstore, and I started with this one after I saw it on Allure’s 2020 Best of Beauty list. It immediately made its way into my rotation, topping some of the expensive mascaras I’ve loved for years. It gives so much impact and volume while adding a little length too. It’s the perfect dramatic mascara to wear during the day. I’ve already told all of my friends to buy it on their next Target run, and now I’m telling you!

      Tinted Face Oil Foundation

      This was basically the only foundation I used all summer, and I’m still using it for practically every Zoom call and casual trip to the grocery store. It’s extra glowy, so I always make sure to powder afterward, leaving me with a glowy look that doesn’t get shiny or oily. I apply it on my face straight from the tube, and use either a brush (when I want extra coverage and less glow) or a beauty sponge (less coverage, much glowier). It is so easy to put on when I just need a little something on my face and makes me look alive on Zoom. I would recommend this to anyone looking for an everyday foundation. But heck, I’d be convinced to wear this on my wedding day honestly.

      START HAPPY
      Organic Body Wash

      I’m still working through swapping my daily beauty products for Black-owned alternatives, and body wash felt like the easiest one. I saw this earlier this summer and thought seeing this gorgeous label every morning will make me excited to shower. Little did I know I would fall in love with the product inside too. I had a friend come over recently who saw this in my shower and said it looked “cool” (men are weird), and I went on a 10-minute tangent about how much I love it. This scent is amazing to use for my morning showers, and the peppermint actually cools down my skin, which I love after a sweaty workout. My skin feels clean and soft, and I’m noticing less KP on my arms too which makes this product an ultimate winner.

      Skin Glazing

      As we enter the time of the year that looking glowy isn’t just a given (oh how I miss my summer dew!), I’ve had a lot of my friends ask me for highlighter recommendations. This one from Nabla has been my go-to, especially because they have shades for every skin tone. It’s not filled with shimmers or glitters, so instead of adding a very prominent powder-y finish on the skin, it looks like your skin is naturally glowing. It’s a really fine-milled powder, so it looks better the more you blend it in. It’s the perfect glass skin powder highlight that looks both natural and impactful.

      PATRICK TA
      Major Brow Shaping Wax

      I’ve been embracing my natural brow shape the last few months in an attempt to head to my salon as little as possible (and save money… and achieve the Bella Hadid brow… and because I’m lazy). With that has come unruly brows that absolutely look nothing like a Hadid sister and more like a caveman. I snagged this a few months ago now, and it is, without a doubt, the best brow product I’ve ever tried. It takes a little extra time than your typical gel in the morning, but when you have the time, it’s worth it for that laminated brow look.

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      It’s Dry Skin Season: How to Hydrate From Head to Toe

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      I’ve lived in the Midwest my entire life, and the cold has never affected my skin. I’ve been a self-proclaimed pizza face since I was about 11 years old, dealing with mostly oily skin and a hint of dryness here and there. But I never experienced the dryness of my friends and colleagues until I moved to Chicago. What was once a normal skin type became irritated, itchy, red, blotchy, and tight the second the weather switched. It was typically a result of my allergies as the season’s changed, but the Windy City ain’t a lie, m’am—that wind blowing on your face every day is not particularly music to a dermatologist’s ears. As Chicago natives, transplants, and general dry-skin people, our editors have a lot of insight to share on how to keep your skin in tip-top shape the second the season changes. Between our wellness tips to keep your hydration in check to reducing skin irritation to helping your scalp health, we’ve got it all covered. Smooth skin from your head to your toes, in seven steps:

      1. Use a hydration multiplier
      Did you really expect us to talk about hydration without a little H2O? While we all know to drink our water at this point, what you might not have in your arsenal is a hydration multiplier. Sometimes getting all of your water in just isn’t in the cards, and that’s where a product like this comes in. These products work to replenish electrolytes, vitamins, and minerals, so if you find yourself feeling dehydrated (maybe after a cold, with allergies, or stress), these help bring your hydration levels back up.

       

      2. Eat a diet high in water 
      Drinking water isn’t the only way to hydrate your body. Filling up on fruits and vegetables that have a high water content—like lettuce, cucumber, celery, tomatoes, strawberries, peaches, and cauliflower—does the job too. But that’s not the only way either; oatmeal, soups and broths, dairy, and plain yogurt contain high amounts of water too. 

      3. Limit hot showers
      Dermatologists suggest using warm or cool water to shower if you’re prone to irritation and dryness. If you must shower in hot water, try to limit the time you’re under the water. Then, follow with a moisturizing cream or oil. You should also avoid showering every day unless you work out or get dirty in some way. 

      4. Blot your skin dry
      Instead of getting out of the shower and immediately using your towel to rub your skin and hair dry, blot the water off as best as possible, including your scalp. You can even invest in a hair wrap or towel specifically made to keep your hair and scalp healthy while it’s wet. Ever get out of the shower and see your dead skin come off on a towel? Blotting keeps all the moisture locked into your skin and prevents further exfoliation. 

       

      5. Don’t forget your feet and hands
      Just because pedicure season is on its way out doesn’t mean we can stop hydrating and exfoliating our feet. Give yourself a fall and winter-themed pedicure with a warm soak, an exfoliating mask, and sleeping with a thick moisturizer and some socks.
      Notice your hands are feeling a little rough from all the hand-washing too? Do the same: soak in warm water, use an exfoliating mask or scrub, and sleep with a thick moisturizer on and some gloves.

       
       
      6. Add hydration into every step of your routine
      For those with severely dry skin, every product in your routine should have some element that adds to the moisture levels of your skin. Your cleanser shouldn’t be filled with acids; it should contain hyaluronic acid and oils that clean without stripping your skin. Your serums should contain peptides and vitamins (E and C are particularly moisturizing, and C is also brightening!) that keep your skin supple and soft. Focus on hydration with every step. This doesn’t mean you should give up on all of your exfoliating acids and retinol. Instead, invest in those products that don’t strip the oil and contain moisturizing ingredients. Glow Recipe’s Avocado Melt Retinol Sleeping Mask, for example, is a retinol suspended in a nourishing formula containing avocado, hyaluronic acid, squalane, and other ingredients that balance the drying properties.

      7. Treat your scalp like your face
      If you’re experiencing dryness on your face, it’s likely on your scalp too. Whether you suffer with dry or oily hair, there is likely build-up (hey dry shampoo!), oils, and irritation going on up there. To combat it, treat your scalp the same way you do your face, and create a routine. First, focus on moisturizing shampoos that hydrate your scalp from the start. Then, implement a deep conditioner that you can use from scalp to ends. We also love adding a scalp scrub to get rid of build-up too.
      Aside from a routine, try to limit how often you’re scratching and touching your scalp. This only moves around the oils and causes further irritation. 

      Shop our favorite dry skin and scalp products: 

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      Beauty Trends I’m Excited to Try This Fall—And 3 I’m Skipping

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      It’s no secret that I take a lot of influence from beauty YouTube. I follow tutorials just about every time I do my makeup, I’m constantly listening to reviews and favorites while I do mundane tasks throughout the day, and I’m always inspired by what creators on that platform are doing. My obsession the past year or so has been “Will I Buy It” videos, popularized by YouTuber Samantha March. Basically, the creator sits in front of the camera and discusses the newest beauty launches for the week, month, or season and says if they plan to buy it or not. It feels like a couple of girlfriends getting together to talk makeup—including the occasional roast. I’ve been reading up on all of fall 2020’s beauty trends, especially taking notice in how they play into our lives right now. Some of the predicted trends of the year really work with my WFH life, while others absolutely do not. So to get in the spirit of fall beauty, I’m sharing the beauty trends I’m excited to try this year, plus a few I’ll be skipping (and what I’m planning to try instead).

      1. Invisible foundations
      Listen, I get the appeal of a foundation that won’t get all over the inside of my mask. When I first saw Becca Cosmetics’s big launch of their Zero No Pigment Foundation a few months ago, I was admittedly intrigued. It sounded like exactly what we all needed this summer. However, after seeing a range of reviews come in, my fascination quickly dwindled. Many reviews were claiming that it wasn’t really a “foundation,” but rather a pore-filling primer, something I have multiple of in my collection already. Instead of investing in this $36 product, I’m making use of those primers I already have. Plus, as I’ll get into, I’m really digging a little more coverage right now, so this isn’t really my vibe.

      2. Glossy lips
      I never thought I’d say this as I literally threw away just about every matte lip product I owned nearly eight months ago, vowing to only wear glossy and satin formulas ever again. Then, I started wearing a face mask every time I left my house, and anything that could possibly stick to the material of my mask fell to the wayside. Lately, I’m loving matte lips (even liquid lipsticks!) that will stay on and not budge under my mask until I get to wherever I’m heading. I’m also trying so many deep and bright lip options this fall that really lend to a matte formula over something glossy and sticky.

      3. Layered Haircuts
      As much as I love these cuts and would die to look like the modern-day Rachel Green, a high-maintenance cut like this just isn’t the move for fall 2020. I’m seeing my stylist as little as possible right now, so I’m avoiding any hair changes that make me indebted to my stylist every six weeks. My current joy lies in a blunt haircut that grows out evenly without needing constant trims or touch-ups.

      1. Transfer-proof coverage

      I don’t have time to deal with my makeup coming off all in my face mask, so I’m embracing a more matte finish. I love that a velvet-y matte or semi-matte foundation doesn’t leave me feeling like my skin is about to melt off underneath a mask, but I also am enjoying the extra bit of coverage (shout out maskne!). (Basically, my entire makeup routine is centered around wearing a mask, and I’m loving it.) Don’t worry though, just because I’m going with matte skin doesn’t mean I won’t have a glow. I’ve been loving a little extra skin prep (good for my dry skin due to the cold weather), plus I add lots of highlighter to the cheekbones. Flawless skin, nice to meet you. 

      2. Matte Lips

      As stated above, I’m living for matte lips right now. There’s something about a deep, matte lip color in the fall and winter. (Perhaps it’s all the Kylie Lip Kits I ordered when she launched her line! Who’s to say!) A matte lip won’t rub off on the inside of my mask like a gloss or satin shade will, especially if it’s a liquid lipstick. This fall, I’m trying bright reds, terracotta oranges, and mid-tone cool berries. 

      3. All variations of eyeliner

      We’ve seen colored eyeliner for the last few seasons, and this year, any and all eyeliner is gracing the faces of celebrities, makeup artists, and on runways. From the typical deep, black-winged liner to “Foxy eyes” (made famous by Bella Hadid, of course) to bright, “over” liners (in which your eyeliner goes at the crease of your eye instead of against your lid—makes your eyes look big and bright!), we’re seeing that no matter how you wear your eyeliner, it’s cool. I’ll be playing around with different shapes and colors to see which suits my face best (and which looks the coolest with my outfits, of course).

      4. Curled or Textured Updos

      Whether it’s classic ponytails, buns with tendrils left out, or whimsical updos, this style is taking over our Instagram feeds a little more every day. I’m obsessed with this look because it looks so put-together for Zoom meetings, but it’s really easy to do—especially if you have naturally curly or textured hair. I’m a huge fan of the curly pony right now; business in the front, party in the back.

      5. Structured Brows

      In an episode of Fat Mascara, Anastasia Soare (yep, the Anastasia of ABH!) said that in her world, there are no brow trends; instead, everyone just wears the brow shape that’s perfect for them, and they always look good. I’ve kept that in my brain ever since, and it’s made a world of a difference. All that to say, if the Cara Delevigne bushy brow look or the block-y Instagram brow of the late 2010s didn’t look all that great on you (me, me, me!), don’t fret—the makeup industry is taking note, and we’re seeing structured, polished brows that follow your natural shape take center stage.

      6. Cool Tones

      Warm-toned makeup (think Naked Heat, Tartelette Toasted—the whole shebang) has been the “it” look for years. Peachy, red, orange, brown, and yellows have reigned supreme in the makeup world in everything from lipsticks and eyeshadows to even bronzers and blushes. But we’re finally seeing quite the switch-up this fall with grey, taupe, and purple hues filling up eyeshadow palettes, lip collections, and more. Many people have grown scared of cool tones, especially if they have a warm undertone in their skin, but pretty much everyone can rock a cool tone look. Finding the right tones that work for you is important, but a simple taupe or silver-y metallic all over the lid is a major moment for pretty much anyone. Also, don’t forget that cool tones include more than just grey and plum; cool shades of blue and green are hot right now too.

      7. Inner-Corner Sparkle

      Textured eyeshadows, instead of your standard matte or shimmer, are at the top of my wishlist right now. I love using these as a one-shadow look, but I’m taking cues from some of my favorite makeup artists and incorporating them into otherwise classic looks by popping just a little right in the inner corner. Some looks it’s just a dab in the inner corner, and others they apply the shadow in the inner quarter of the lid, going up to the brow (as seen above). It adds a little bit of dimension without going haywire and looks good on every single eye shape.  More