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      I Got My First Botox Treatment at Age 25—Here Are My Thoughts

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      Whenever I hear the word “Botox,” I can’t help but think of Luther (Tim Allen) of Christmas with the Kranks, frozen-faced, Spock-browed, and drooling out his beverage post-neuromodulator treatment. That scene gets me every. freaking. time. No part of me wants a Tim Allen-inspired frozen face, but if you describe a treatment as beneficial for “smoothing fine lines” and “preventing wrinkles,” the beauty guru in me eagerly steps up to the plate, wanting to learn more. I’m 25 and started taking the skincare game seriously about one year ago. My goals at the time were to not look so tired (my chronic under-eye bags are designer, it’s fine), to brighten my complexion, to treat and prevent acne, and to prevent further skin damage. After a year of trying products and finding what works for me based on my skin needs, I have my skincare routine down to a science. And what do we do when we meet our goals? That’s right, we make new ones.
      My new goal for this year is to work on keeping true to my skincare routine and to prevent further wrinkling/damage. According to Cleveland Clinic, wrinkles are made worse by aging, sun damage, smoking, and repetitive facial muscle contractions. While I can help my cause by wearing sunscreen, avoiding tanning, and not smoking, aging is an inevitable privilege that just happens. Repetitive facial muscle contractions seem similarly unavoidable until you take Botox, a neuromodulator that can help minimize those movements, into consideration. 

      So what exactly is Botox? 
      Per Medline Plus, Botox is a drug that is used to inactivate chosen muscles through the blocking of specific nerves. Botox is “made from a toxin produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum,” the site added. In large doses, you may know it as the toxin responsible for food-poisoning-related botulism. Sounds like something absolutely none of us want, but in small doses, it has proven helpful in reducing wrinkles, severe sweating, chronic migraines, neck spasms, and overactive bladders. Despite popular belief, Botox isn’t the only brand of botulinum toxin on the market. According to Mayo Clinic, other botulinum toxin products (also referred to as neuromodulators because they affect movement at the level of neurons) include Dysport, Xeomin, and Myobloc. 

      Step 1: Finding an injector
      When I decided to take my skincare to the next level (some may call it being extra, I call it being proactive), I did plenty of research to find an injector in my area who was a nurse or doctor, practiced safely, boasted a successful before and after, and had rave reviews. I looked to Yelp and RealSelf (basically a Yelp for plastic surgeries and cosmetic procedures) and decided upon an injector that fit all of my criteria. I realized that for me, having a neuromodulator treatment would be completely elective, so I was in no rush and set aside an ample amount of time to find the perfect injector to fit my needs. I chose an injector who was near me and had rave reviews on the review sites I researched.

      Step 2: The consultation
      Two weeks later, I found myself bare-faced in my injector’s procedural chair, ready to talk neuromodulators and to find a treatment plan that worked for me. The consultation that I had with her was so valuable and, in my opinion, is not something that should be rushed through. If you show up to your appointment and your injector immediately starts drawing up neuromodulator, I’d take that as a red flag. 
      We talked about my medical history, aesthetic goals (for me, it was wrinkle prevention and looking refreshed), side effects to consider, what would be required of me post-procedure, what to expect as the drug took effect, and cost. She leveled with me and made sure we were on the same page before we even discussed what areas we would treat. She offered me the option to think about all of her considerations and to schedule a follow-up for the procedure, but after doing a lot of my own research and feeling a connection with the injector, I felt ready to move forward. If I was feeling “on the fence” or more hesitant about the procedure based on my feelings towards the cost, the actual procedure, or the injector herself, it would have been a great opportunity for me to reevaluate my decision.
      I asked her professional opinion about what areas would be beneficial to treat. My wrinkles aren’t prominent until I make facial expressions, so there wasn’t one area over another that was a non-negotiable for me to treat. Based on her assessment, she stated that I would most benefit from treating a combination of my forehead and frown lines, which she noticed to be particularly strong in my face. After taking my before photos for my chart and for comparison, she got to work. 

      Step 3: The treatment
      PSA: I’m the biggest baby of all time. If I get my eyebrows threaded, my jaw will be clenched the entire time, I will shed a tear, and I will leave behind an accidental puddle of sweat in the chair. I’m a sensitive little flower whose nervous system is on one. That being said, the actual injecting was exactly what I imagined it to be. The needle they used was super tiny and the Botox solution isn’t very viscous, so I couldn’t feel the medication being injected as I typically do with a flu shot, for instance. On a pain scale of 0-10, I’d say that getting Botox (in my book) was about a 4/10. Take that with a grain of salt. Like I said … I’m sensitive AF.
      To treat my forehead and frown lines, she used nine different points of injection and the entire procedure took about three minutes. Afterward, she cleaned up some small droplets of blood on my forehead and gave me post-care instructions which included four hours of activity restrictions (no working out, no lying down, and no massaging the area) to ensure that the product wouldn’t migrate to an area it isn’t supposed to.

      Step 4: Recovery
      Probably the greatest part of having Botox, for me, was that I could go about my day post-procedure with no downtime at all. Granted, I skipped my workout (tragic, I know) and took my normal Saturday nap sitting upright on my couch (nothing comes between me and my Saturday nap). Other than that, my day was unchanged: I went grocery shopping, cleaned my apartment, and hung out with my friends. All the while, my Botox was kicking into gear.

      Did it work?
      If you’re considering a neuromodulator treatment or have a consultation with an injector, they’ll likely tell you that it’ll take two weeks for the neuromodulator to take full effect, but allow me to let you in on a little secret—you’ll start feeling the effects much sooner than that. For me, the first signs of muscle relaxation were on day four post-treatment. It’s a weird feeling to describe. My skin wasn’t numb to the touch, but my injected muscles felt numb. I couldn’t frown as forcefully as I normally did and raising my eyebrows was a challenge. 
      By day six, I’d say that the Botox took full effect. The movement in my brows and forehead was minimal which, while it sounds odd, felt freaking awesome. It didn’t bother me that I couldn’t move the upper part of my face as much as I normally did. It was a little eerie at first, but I got used to the feeling (or lack thereof) quickly. I noticed that I was frowning a lot when I sleep because I could feel my muscles trying and failing to work upon waking. Overall, my face felt more relaxed and strangely, I liked tuning into it because I carry a lot of stress in my face and it was a good reminder to exhale. It was a zen experience. 
      I realized some natural movement started to come back at the one month mark and then for the next few months, more movement returned. After about four months, I’d say that the effects were 85 percent worn off. AKA, I was ready for more.

      Was it worth it?
      While I will 10/10 get it done again, I am aware that it is a luxury treatment and not a necessity. I liked my results and love the idea of preventing wrinkles (now I’m way more in tune to how strong my frown is, especially upon waking up in the morning), but going back to my injector for more Botox is far from being my top priority. 
      The two major pitfalls of getting a neuromodulator treatment, for me, were the cost of the procedure and the longevity of the product. Depending on where you go, what you get done, how many units your injector uses, and what discounts you may have, the price of Botox varies. If I were to go in on a normal day without a discount, the treatment that I got would be $400-$600. While many medspas and injectors offer rewards programs, that’s a large chunk of change for a treatment that offers temporary effects.
      My injector warned me of the timeline, but, of course, I wish the effects would have lasted a bit longer based on the price I paid for the service. However, the shorter duration makes it safer for patients if a mistake is made by the injector (i.e., too much product used in one side versus the other) so that you don’t have a permanent deformity. This was partly the reason why I decided I’d give Botox a try: if it’s horrible, I know it’s not permanent.

      If you’re thinking about Botox…
      If you’re considering a neuromodulator treatment, I think that finding an injector you trust and feel comfortable following up with is the most important part of the experience. It’s helpful to get a vibe for what their goals are. If making money is their top priority as opposed to truly being interested in what’s best for you, you may end up over-treated, and overspend as a result. A good injector should provide contact information (whether it be through their personal platforms or through the office they work for) so that you can comfortably follow up with concerns if issues arise.
      I think that Botox is an awesome service that can make a lot of people happy and feel like their best selves, but as with most cosmetic procedures and beauty treatments, they should be considered a luxury and not a necessity. That being said, you bet your bottom dollar I’ll be back once I get to where I want to be financially. More

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      in beauty and fashion

      The Product That Has Completely Banished My Blackheads

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      Blackheads (and their sinister cousin, whiteheads) have plagued me for years; they simply cannot let me go. Across my T-zone, I have pretty large pores going on that cannot resist getting filled with gunk. After years of skin torture in the form of Biore pore strips and ultra strong peel-off masks, I was left with blackheads and a load of irritation. I have tried anything and everything in my quest to send blackheads to that place that Gandalf fell, including a memorable incident with a pore vacuum, which I can heartily say I do not recommend. While it turns out expecting instant results was getting me nowhere (who knew?), I have stumbled upon a cult favorite product I would happily douse my face in for the rest of my life. 

      I routinely spend time google researching blackhead remedies while binging The Great British Baking Show (don’t you?), and unfailingly, the Paula’s Choice BHA exfoliant would appear in comments and on message boards surrounded by words like magic, life-changing, and undeniable. It’s a chemical exfoliator, which means it doesn’t require those skin-shredding granules I used to slather over my face in middle school.  
      “I recommend ‘chemical’ exfoliation over physical, meaning using an acid or enzyme to exfoliate instead of physical particles as in a scrub,” said Dr. Loretta Ciraldo, dermatologist and owner of Dr. Loretta Skincare. “With physical exfoliation, you’re removing only surface dead cells. With a chemical exfoliant like AHA/glycolic, BHA/salicylic, or an enzyme, you’re removing cells both in pores as well as on skin’s surface.”

      I caved and bought the 2% BHA Exfoliant so I could test the magic for myself about eight months ago. The formula takes a moment to get used to—initially, I was really skeptical since it feels quite oily on the skin. I was expecting more of a light zingy feeling, and instead, it has more of an oil-based slick quality. I apply it with a cotton round and concentrate it on the areas where my blackheads like to congregate—mainly my nose, upper lip (sexy!), and chin. 
      Despite my doubts, I’ve actually gotten used to how the formula feels, and after around eight months of use, it’s made my hallowed list of auto-buy repurchases. My favorite part is how gentle it feels with no burning, itching, or stinging like other exfoliators—both chemical and physical—that I’ve tried. All Paula’s Choice products are fragrance-free as well, which is a welcome respite from recent overly-scented launches (Fenty Skin, I’m looking at you). 
      I’ve worked up to using it every night, and I’ve found that of all my lotions and potions, BHA (aka salicylic acid) works best for my skin in terms of refining texture and reducing pore blockage (my nemesis). I’m going to be real: I still have some blackheads. I think they may have decided to be with me forever, and who could blame them? But overall, the pores on my nose are less noticeable and enlarged and the skin on my cheeks and forehead feels buttery smooth, which wasn’t my intention in using this product but is a delightful side effect. Here’s a photo I would use to announce the Exfoliant and I are engaged: 

      In general when I’m having skin woes, I go back to the drawing board with my tried-and-true products I know work and don’t irritate my skin. The 2% BHA Exfoliant always makes the list, along with a gentle cleanser and hyaluronic acid serum. And of course, sunscreen. 

      Final thoughts

      If you’re dealing with blackheads, try this. Definitely try it before reaching for a quick-fix solution like a pore vacuum (your skin and I am begging you).
      Be prepared to use this for a few months at least. Commit to it! I’m notorious for rotating my skincare too fast and thinking that nothing is working when really I needed to give it more time. 
      Always use sunscreen when you’re using this product. You know what, just always use sunscreen full stop. 
      On my skin, this is pretty gentle, but I still recommend doing a patch test and working up to using every night, especially if your skin is sensitive. 
      According to Paula’s Choice, exfoliants are step three after your cleanser and toner and before your serum and moisturizer. I usually skip toner, but otherwise, follow that order. 
      More Paula’s Choice faves from the team

      Paula’s Choice
      2% BHA Body Lotion

      This lotion has been a life-saver for the keratosis pilaris on my upper arms.

      Paula’s Choice
      10% Niacinamide Booster

      I frequently use this serum booster post-BHA exfoliant to fade old acne scars. More

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      in lifestyle and culture

      October’s – ‘The Bravery Issue’ with Khulood Thani

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      October’s – ‘The Bravery Issue’ – Download Now
      Words & Creative Direction: Amy SessionsPhotography: Greg AdamskiHair & Makeup: Melanie MeyerProduction: Kelli MaddockFashion Assistant: Camille Macawili
      Welcome to ‘The Bravery Issue’.

      In this issue, we celebrate bravery in all its forms, from taking a leap of faith to daring to be different and striking out on your own.
      For our cover shoot we partnered with Fendi, a brand known for breaking the mould and carving out its own design direction, just like our cover star Khulood Thani.

      In this issue we also speak to Sheikha Amal Al Maktoum who teaches us what it takes to take a leap of faith and launch your own brand and entrepreneur Ghizlan Guenez demonstrates the bravery of starting again and Captain Salma Al Baloushi, the first Emirati female to rise to First Officer’s rank at Etihad, speaks to us about what it takes to become a woman of firsts in.

      We also have exclusive interviews with Elizabeth von der Goltz – Global Buying Director at NET-A-PORTER, Holli Rogers – CEO Browns Fashion & Chief Brand Officer at Farfetch and Kate Blythe-Pearson Chief Marketing Officer at Mecca, all incredible women demonstrating bravery to follow their gut in both business and life.
      ‘Sharp Solution’ and ‘Brave Beauty’ take a look at a more extreme approach to your usual beauty routine while LIYA and Marei1998 deliver daring new design aesthetics worth investing in for FW20. In ‘The Brave’ we spoke to some of the most incredible women we know to ask what bravery means to them.
      For many, the bravery to start, to try and to dare, even if this leads to failure is still an achievement that should be championed.
      “If he fails, at least fails while daring greatly.” – Theodore Roosevelt.
      October’s – ‘The Bravery 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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      September Empties: Honest Thoughts on The Products Our Team Finished This Month

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      We’re big fans of the YouTube Beauty Community here at The Everygirl. We’re constantly talking about our favorite creators, their best looks, and buying pretty much everything they recommend. The YouTube beauty world is honestly what we have to thank for some of the biggest trends in beauty—we’d never be baking our undereyes or curling our hair with straighteners or using men’s post-shave balm as a primer if it weren’t for the beauty YouTubers who taught us how. Alongside the various techniques YouTube has taught us, the phenomenon of the ever-so-popular “empties video” has truly taken over our subscription feeds. Every beauty YouTuber has made an empties video (if not five), and everyone who even knows just a glimpse of beauty YouTube has seen one. The concept is simple: show everyone what’s in your trash and talk about if you loved it, if you’ll buy it again, and how long it took you to use up. 
      So being the beauty-lovers we are at TEG HQ, we decided to create our own empties series. Every month, all of our editors will share a few of our own empties—from skin, hair, and makeup products to candles and vitamins and home items—and give our unfiltered review on each of the products. Some of them we’ll love and need to repurchase ASAP … and some we’ll celebrate finally finishing them up. If you’ve ever wondered what our absolute favorites (and not-so-favorites) are, this is the right place to be. It’s finally time for our trash cans to shine!

      Pumpkin Powerhouse Resurfacing & Exfoliating Enzyme Mask

      Fall is in full swing, and I feel it’s my duty to share that I absolutely love this $12 pumpkin face mask. I bought this last year to see if it would be a dupe for all of the other pumpkin masks on the market (and there are certainly a few). Is this a dupe? I can’t say, but I will tell you that I had a lot of fun with this mask, making it worth the just-over-$10 price point. I loved how soft and smooth my skin felt afterward, and it was the perfect mask to wear while I took a bath. If you’re looking for something fun to add to your skincare routine this fall, try this.

      Sunday Riley
      C.E.O Glow Vitamin C + Turmeric Face Oil

      To be fair, this isn’t even remotely close to empty, but I’m throwing it out and figured I would share as a lesson to myself and anyone reading that vitamin C goes bad and to use your products before that. I went to use this on my face a couple of weeks ago and was utterly appalled at the absolutely rancid scent coming from this tiny little container and knew it had to go. I had it for about a year, so that makes sense. As for how much I liked this, it was so-so. It did absolutely nothing for dark spots, but it definitely made me look glowy and hydrated. Had I used it more consistently, maybe I would have noticed better results, but I realized I really don’t like applying vitamin C in an oil format. Instead, I’ve fallen in love with my #1: Maelove Glow Maker

      Neutrogena
      Hydro Boost Hyaluronic Acid Gel Face Moisturizer

      This is hands-down the best drugstore moisturizer there is. This is the second tub I’ve gone through, and I’m sure I’ll keep buying it. When I want something reliable that I know works for me and keeps me extra hydrated, this is what I use. It’s a gel-cream, so it feels like nothing on my face (was perfect for the summer), but it’s full of hyaluronic acid which keeps my skin plump and full of moisture. It’s a little expensive for a drugstore product, but I promise, it’s worth every penny.

      Milk Makeup
      Kush Mascara

      My love for this mascarahas been expressed at length, so I won’t waste your time with another love note. But I will tell you that if you want thick, long, dramatic lashes, you are missing out if you don’t try this. Everyone I’ve gotten to try it falls in love with it. I’ve gone through about four tubes since it released, and I know I’ll keep buying it. However, I am also trying to go through my other mascaras for now and want to try some drugstore and clean versions first. But there will always be a special place in my heart (and my collection) for Kush Mascara.

      Equilibria
      Mint-Flavored Daily Drops

      I’ve used pretty much every single CBD product that Equilibria makes—and while they each have their own special place in my routine, the mint drops take the cake. I take one full dropper each morning with my coffee and a splash of oat milk—resulting in a delicately minty drink that soothes my stress and helps me feel more focused to take on the day. I have a subscription for these, so I’m shipped a new bottle every four weeks. I never want to be without them!

      Skin Food

      I am not a Skin Food stan (as I know some people are!), but there are truly few things that can tackle suuuuuper dry skin quite like this can. It’s very greasy, so I pretty much only use it on the tops of my hands when I’m going to be sitting still. It’s not my reach-for-it-all-the-time lotion, but it IS my reach-for-it-when-my-parched-skin-is-desperate lotion.

      Blondage Conditioner

      This has been my favorite conditioner in the entire world for YEARS. I use it about once a week, and it truly makes my hair its shiniest and bounciest self. It’s frowned-upon to overuse purple hair products (despite how great they are at banishing blonde brassiness)—but if I could, I’d use this every wash. Whether you’re bleached and beachy or just have some sunny streaks, you will LOVE this conditioner as much as I do.

      PFB Vanish
      Ultra Triple Action

      Now that I’m back to my regular wax appointments, I made sure to stock up on products recommended by my esthetician that will help with any new irritation or ingrown hairs. This post-waxing roll-on serum has been my go-to for care right after wax appointments. It helps soothe any inflammation and helps treat dark spots and discoloration caused by frequent waxing. I noticed less bikini line discoloration, which was a big issue for me when I tried a new esthetician in the past. This is a must if you are prone to having skin issues from waxing.

      Freeman Beauty
      Cleansing Sheet Mask

      I am all in on the sheet mask craze, and Freeman Beauty has a lot of my favorite products for mud masks—and now sheet masks. I use this right before or during a breakout on my face from product build-up. After 15-20 minutes, this face mask leaves my skin clean, but moisturized as well. I love all-things charcoal in my products, as it’s been proven to work for me, and the charcoal in this 100 percent bamboo mask helps clear my pores and preps my face to absorb my overnight cream. My at-home spa nights are not complete without a good sheet mask to top it all off!

      Living Proof
      Dry Volume Spray

      I am my best self with a giant cloud of hair. I want my hair to have a separate zip code and precede me into every room. And there is no achieving this without my beloved Dry Volume Blast. It’s basically a dry shampoo and texturizer hybrid that is perfect to add grit to freshly washed hair or revive falling day five hair. I use it last before I breeze out the door, buoyed by my locks like a hot air balloon.

      Shea Sugar Scrub

      In the winter, my skin is positively parched and needs a good body scrub + body oil combo to remain in fighting form and not peel off in one go like a snake shedding. I like to use my scrub basically every shower, so I needed an affordable version since I’ve been known to go through a full jar every two weeks. This one is effective, has a light scent that doesn’t linger too long, and tops out at about $9. Win, win, win.

      Danessa Myricks Beauty
      Waterproof Cushion Liner

      I purchased this liner on a whim and thought for sure I’d use it once and give up. Well, that was certainly not the case since I’m out of it. I love that this liner is so vibrant and easy to work with (once you understand how the formula works). I already have this in my cart ready to repurchase this week.

      Boy Brow

      I was once a Boy Brow skeptic. Could a brow product *really* be that amazing? The answer is yes. I haven’t waxed, threaded, or plucked my brows in over a year. When I want my brows to look done, I add a few swipes of this, and I’m out the door. I already have a backup to my empty, and will always keep one on deck, so I’m never without it.

      Nécessaire
      The Body Wash: Eucalyptus

      This body wash is truly my favorite product I’ve purchased for my skin in years! Normally, I buy (the super cheap) kind from my local pharmacy, but during this crazy summer, I treated myself to something out of the ordinary and I’m so glad I did. I love the smell and texture of this body wash so much. Every time I use it I feel like I’m at a spa. It gives me a much-needed mini break from 2020 reality. I’ve tried to use it very sparingly but as I’m now out, I’m sure I’ll be reordering it again soon.

      Nordic-C Glow Boost Essence Serum

      I thought it was finally time to get on the Vitamin C serum train after hearing all about the amazing benefits, so I decided to give this one a try. I picked it based on the affordable price point and excellent reviews. Overall, I feel kind of *meh* about it. It feels nice and refreshing and smells good, but honestly I didn’t notice a huge difference in my skin. I’m not going to totally rule it out because I’m not sure if I used it long enough (this small size doesn’t last very long—I had it for about six weeks), but I will say that I replaced it with a different Vitamin C serum to try. Stay tuned to see if I like that one better!

      The Ordinary
      Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5

      I very rarely run out of and repurchase beauty products because I like to try new things so often (bad habit, I know). However, I DID just repurchase this hyaluronic acid serum. As soon as the air even begins to cool off during the fall, all of the moisture is sucked right out of my skin and I deal with extreme dryness all winter long. This product is one of the few things that really makes a difference and provides my skin with some hydration.

      Curls & Waves Whipped Mousse

      As a girl with unruly naturally curly hair, I’m always on the hunt for any stylizing hair product. This mousse is hands-down the best curly hair product I’ve tried this year. It keeps my curls in place all day but doesn’t leave your hair with that stiff, crunchy feeling. I will definitely be purchasing this again.

      Instant Self-Tanning Mousse

      I’m a girl who always feels most confident with a tan. With the cooler weather coming, I started using this tanning mousse whenever I felt like getting ready. The product is only $13 dollars and it feels like a high-end product.

      16HR Camo Concealer

      I bought this product because of Tik Tok ( oh yes–I went there) and it disappointed me. When I used it under and on my eyes it was very drying. I like creamy, moisturizing concealers and this was not one of them!

      L’Oreal Paris
      Telescopic Original Mascara

      This mascara is my holy grail! I will repurchase this for the rest of my life. It makes my eyelashes long and never ever clumps.

      Overnight Facial Peel

      Confession: I used to have skincare commitment issues. There’s something about night creams, treatments, and oils that is apparently so alluring to me, I could never settle on just one. That is, until this Overnight Facial Peel found its way into my routine and became my go-to nighttime treatment. Even though it’s formulated with lactic acid, glycolic acid, and vitamin A to brighten skin and exfoliate, it feels like putting on a lotion and never dries out my skin. As if that wasn’t enough, it’s non-toxic, vegan, and under $20, so yes, I will be purchasing again. And again and again and again.

      BYBI Beauty
      Blueberry Oil Booster

      I always mention this facial oil whenever I talk about my morning routine because it’s as essential to my day as a cup of coffee or making my bed. Rosehip gets all the attention when it comes to face oils, but let me introduce you to blueberry seed oil, which is the only ingredient in this genius product. The cold-pressed blueberry seed oil helps defend your skin against blue light damage by absorbing blue light before it penetrates the skin. In other words, you may feel guilty for sitting at your laptop from the minute you wake up until you fall asleep for many reasons, but the damage it’s doing to your skin doesn’t have to be one of them. Plus, it contains powerful nutrients like beta-carotene and omega 3, 6, and 9, which have made my skin glow and helped fight inflammation. It’s a little bottle but you literally only need a minuscule drop to cover your whole face so this one bottle has lasted me for six months.

      Veil Translucent Setting Powder

      I bought this powder over a year ago at Beth’s recommendation in an attempt to find a powder to set my super-dry face, but somehow not make it even dryer (it somehow eats makeup so even though it’s dry, I like to set my face for longer-lasting makeup). This powder is truly witchcraft. It’s the least drying setting powder I have ever used in my life and I don’t think I will ever buy another powder again. It gives a natural finish but doesn’t ever make me look dry or cakey. This is the travel size, and since you need such a small amount, it has lasted me 12+ months. I can’t imagine anyone who wouldn’t love this—it’s a holy grail for sure.

      Living Proof
      Perfect Hair Day Dry Shampoo

      We have a bit of a dry shampoo rivalry in our office—each of us is partial to a different cult-classic one, and this is mine. I will argue anyone to the death that this is the best dry shampoo on the market, and I could recite a full dissertation on just way that is, but I’ll spare you that and give you a few details. This leaves absolutely no white cast, reside, or weird film, and it’s the only dry shampoo I’ve ever found that can salvage post-run hair. I can’t count how many of these I’ve gone through and I always have one in my bathroom.

      Want more empties? Check out the previous months below! More

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      in beauty and fashion

      Embracing My Beauty Scars With Hidradenitis Suppurativa

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      As I’m writing this, I am nursing a two-month-old scar from a cyst that used to be under my arm. This includes replacing bandages with clean ones on a daily basis, checking for any future cysts in the same area, spot treating my beauty marks, and managing scars that will most likely remain on my skin for months. This routine isn’t new to me, as I have been battling Hidradenitis Suppurativa for over 10 years. Hidradenitis Suppurativa, or HS, is a skin condition that creates painful and inflamed boils under the hair follicles of your skin. Sweat glands are a major trigger area for HS, as bumps form near those areas of the skin and can create an infection, making these bumps painful, bigger in size under the surface of your skin, and full of pus. In many cases, these bumps need to be drained by a medical professional to avoid the spread of the infection, but unfortunately, sometimes scarring is inevitable after the boil is treated. HS is a skin condition that unfortunately has no cure, according to WebMD, as lifestyle changes and treatments can help alleviate regular flare-ups, but they don’t fully cure the condition. 
      When I was first diagnosed with HS in my late teens, I had no idea that I was one of the riskier groups to develop this type of skin condition. According to Mayo Clinic, Hidradenitis Suppurativa is most common in African-American middle-aged women who may have a family history of HS. Weight also plays a role, and once I educated myself on HS, I tried monitoring my weight, changing my diet, and adapting a cleaner beauty routine, but I continued to be left with the marks from past and current flare-ups. 
      Finding the beauty in my scars from HS was—and still is—a difficult journey. Although the flare-ups are now few and far between and I am more knowledgeable about how to treat my skin, I am now on a personal journey to accept myself and everything that comes along with HS–both on my skin and within. I remind myself regularly of a few affirmations that help me to embrace the beauty scars caused by HS. 

      I am not the only one battling HS 
      Although it felt like I was fighting a solitary battle with my skin, after doing my research and being more open about my condition, I found out that I wasn’t alone. According to the National Institutes of Health, about 4 percent of the world’s population suffers with this chronic skin disease, and this percentage is growing, as this skin disease commonly goes untreated or undiagnosed. 
      Finding a community online and through other friends who suffer with the same condition (or something similar) was a comfort, connecting with those on how they embrace the long-lasting effects of HS, including the unsightly scars all over the body from where the boils formed. After finding others who struggle with the same insecurities from HS or other relatable conditions, it helped me come to terms with my own visible skin marks and learn to accept them.
      I found tips on how to treat discoloration and scarring, including different products specifically designed for harsher blemish marks. I also found the encouragement I needed to live with my beauty marks on a daily basis, becoming more comfortable with my skin and its imperfections. Opening up about my struggles with this skin disease helped me find a whole community dealing with the same issue of embracing their skin and gave me the camaraderie I needed to find confidence in my condition. 

      HS does not define me or my beauty 
      When struggling with a medical condition that affects your skin, it’s easy to feel embarrassed or ashamed of it, especially when it leaves behind spots, marks, discoloration, and other evidence of what your body is going through internally. Growing up with less than problematic skin, dealing with HS changed my definition of beauty. Where I once took pride in my skin, now with HS, I had to change what pride looks like when my skin was less than flawless. 
      According to a 2019 National Institutes of Health study, the psychological effects of those dealing with HS greatly impacts their quality of life the most, including how they see themselves physically and sexually. 
      An affirmation I have to continuously remind myself of is that HS does not define how beautiful I am: no matter how many scars I incur, how much pain I may be in during flare-ups, or how visible it may be. These marks are just a small part of who I am, but isn’t what makes or breaks my beauty. 
      When actively dealing with HS during a flare-up, I try to practice self-affirmations on a daily basis, treat myself to self-caring spa days, and give myself more grace and patience when showing parts of my body that have scarring or discoloration. When getting dressed for the day, I actively highlight the parts of my body that I love, but make sure not to feel ashamed of those parts that may be affected by HS. Since HS primarily flares up in less noticeable areas of the body like the groin and under the arms, it can sometimes be harder to hide without discomfort, especially during the summer months, so defining my own beauty and embracing how my body looks all over was key to helping me gain more self-assurance. 

      My scars are unique—and unique is beautiful 
      Since being diagnosed with HS over 10 years ago, I’ve had my fair share of scars, from a treated lesion right in the middle of my chest that never closed after being lanced (which is always mistaken for a dermal piercing!) to a discolored quarter-sized scar on the underside of my right breast. Although these scars do not define me, they make for interesting and unique marks all over my body, marks that I had to embrace and allow others to embrace too. 
      Now when I see my scars, especially the ones that are highly visible, it reminds me of how unique my condition and my body is–and how beautiful and resilient I am. My scars and beauty marks reflect my struggles with HS, but also reflect my strength and uniqueness. The shame of a skin condition like HS can sometimes take that confidence away from you, but recognizing and giving praise to the story each beauty mark on your body tells can help you embrace your beauty from the outside in.

      Helpful Products for those suffering with HS: 
      Here are a few products I found helpful when dealing with or preventing an HS flare-up on my body, helping you to feel more comfortable in your own skin:  

      Dr. Bronner Hemp Peppermint Pure Castile Oil

      This soap is my go-to in the shower, especially after a workout, to wash and cleanse my body thoroughly. It’s easy for sweat glands to become inflamed and bring on another HS breakout, so it’s great to have this antibacterial soap to get a nice, squeaky clean to your skin. Make sure to follow it up with a more moisturizing soap afterwards!

      Bali Women’s Shapewear

      Shapewear isn’t just for sculpting your body; it could be a great addition to your daily wardrobe to help with rubbing and chafing in areas like the inner thighs, which could cause a boil to form from the skin-to-skin contact. I wear mine with pants, jeans, leggings, and sometimes as workout gear (so glad biker shorts made a comeback!).

      On The Go First Aid Kit

      With HS, it’s always great to have a travel-sized pack of bandages, just in case a boil decides to drain on its own or you need to change an already healing bump. I always keep a cute pack of Band-Aids in my bag wherever I go in multiple sizes. This also prevents a breakout from becoming even more infected. More

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      in lifestyle and culture

      The power of the perfect smile

      by

      September’s – ‘The Power Issue’ – Download Now
      Never underestimate the power of the perfect smile. If you prefer perfecting what you already have than replacing it, Dr Maysoon is the go-to in the industry for a naturally flawless finish.
      What do your first 30 mins of the day look like, your morning routine?
      My morning routine is quite simple. When I wake up I brush my teeth, do a few stretching exercises then have my breakfast before I leave for work.
      In your role you have to have the ability to wear a lot of ‘hats’ in terms of understanding marketing, working with patients directly and of course the dentistry itself. What do you think are your natural strengths and which part do you enjoy most?

      Most of the patients who have written me reviews have complimented me on my communications skills and on the way I’ve made them feel relaxed so I would say my communication skills are definitely one of my big strengths. I love to sit with my patients and take my time when explaining their dental challenges and treatment options. And of course, the dentistry itself comes naturally to me after many years of experience and the hundreds of courses I have attended and continue to attend. I believe the best marketing tool is word of mouth, and the majority of new patients that visit me are through recommendations from current patients.
      Have you seen any trends in terms of cosmetic dentistry changing in recent years and if so what?
      Treatments such as composite bonding (or cosmetic bonding) and composite veneers have become more popular recently because they are relatively quick and conservative treatment options that enhance your smile. You can do so much with composite bonding, such as changing the shape, the length and texture of teeth. Most of the time there is no drilling or injections involved.

      The other trend is teeth straightening using clear aligners such as Invisalign. More adults are opting for these nearly invisible aligners to straighten their teeth as they can wear the aligners with more confidence and are able to remove them for important events.

      Tell us about how you create the perfect smile and would you always suggest trying to perfect what you naturally have before turning to other more extreme solutions?
      For me the perfect smile is enhancing what someone is naturally born with rather than destroying their teeth to achieve or copy someone else’s smile. This can be done in many ways depending on the patient’s goals, teeth, budget and time frame. I would always advise my patients to opt for the most conservative option if possible. For example, if someone has crowded teeth or a narrow smile then orthodontic treatment would be the least invasive option. I think Invisalign is a fantastic option and we can achieve so much with it. It allows us to transform the patient’s smile whilst still maintaining the uniqueness and natural shape of the teeth.
      On average how long can someone expect to spend going through this process?
      It really varies from person to person, depending on the position of their teeth to begin with. Teeth straightening can take any time from 3 to 24 months. Composite bonding and composite veneers can take 1 or 2 appointments.
      How do you aid the patient through the process?
      I always offer support, advice and encouragement throughout their treatment. Sometimes I would show them photos of their progress to increase their motivation and this ensures the time it takes to achieve the final result is minimised.
      Can you describe the process for us in terms of stages?
      The first appointment would involve a dental examination to check that the teeth and gums are healthy before embarking on any treatment. It’s essential to check if the patient is suitable for Invisalign and discuss a treatment plan accordingly. The second appointment would be to take photographs as well as impressions of the teeth and send them to the US where the aligners will be manufactured. After receiving the customised aligners, the third appointment would involve placing attachments on some of the teeth and fitting the first pair of aligners. After this, the patient will typically visit the dentist every 4 weeks to check progress and make any necessary adjustments until the treatment is complete.
      Who for you has the perfect smile?
      Anyone who has straight, bright, healthy teeth and gums has a perfect smile!
      This year has proven challenging for many business and leaders. If you face a challenge –  what have you found is personally the most successful way to overcome it?
      I try to think positively and focus on my mental and physical health. Things somehow end up falling into place when you do this. We cannot control the challenges and problems that come in our way, but we can try to change our mindset towards them.
      Do you have any pre-bedtime rituals?
      I try to avoid bright light and screen time an hour before I go to bed. I always make time for my skin routine before I sleep as well. I’ve recently started spraying lavender on my pillow just before I sleep, lavender helps me relax.

      What effect has social media played in the cosmetic dentistry industry and which channel do you feel will be strongest in future?
      Social media has made dentists more competitive in a good way. Dentists can now share their work in terms of  what can be achieved through photos and videos. Followers can engage with dentists and ask questions making the idea of treatment more accessible. Social media has definitely increased awareness amongst the public with regards to the importance of having a healthy, beautiful smile. Many influencers are documenting their smile makeover journeys on social media and sharing it with their followers. This has increased the demand for cosmetic dentistry. There are filters on Instagram and TikTok that make your teeth appear whiter and straighter which inevitably makes people think twice about their smile.
      If you were not working in the role you are now, which other role would you choose career-wise?
      I would have probably chosen a career in the culinary world. I’m very passionate about food and cooking!
      This issue is The Power Issue. What is powerful to you?
      Power is good health. Without a healthy body and mind we cannot achieve anything. Being powerful is being forgiving.
      For more details contact Dr Tosun Dental Clinic (04) 3435051 or @doctormaysoon
      September’s – ‘The Power Issue’ – Download Now
      – For more about Dubai’s lifestyle, news and fashion scene follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Getty and Supplied More

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      in beauty and fashion

      Enter to Win: We’re Giving Away $200 of Skincare!

      by

      In 2020, there’s no shortage of information on all of the ingredients people claim you absolutely need for your skin, from retinoids to acids to creams promising to give you new skin overnight. And when I subscribed to the idea that I needed to try them all, my skin got worse—way worse. It didn’t take a genius to figure out why: I was using too much, and all the harsh ingredients I was slathering on every night were actually hurting my skin’s natural microbiome, leaving me with irritation and dryness abound. And with the culture surrounding skincare right now, I think this is happening to more of us than we might think.Enter: Mother Dirt, the pioneers of probiotic skincare. You probably already know about the potential benefits of taking a probiotic, but why would you want them in your skincare? In the past, there was a healthy, peacekeeping bacteria that existed on human’s skin called Ammonia-Oxidizing Bacteria (AOB), but with harsher chemicals being incorporated into skincare and our lifestyles changing over time, the bacteria have gotten wiped away. In 2015, the founders of Mother Dirt—who were MIT scientists—recognized this and started a brand that incorporated AOB into its products to help balance the skin. They didn’t believe there was such a thing as bad skin—just bad skincare. 
      To give you something good in 2020, Mother Dirt is giving three of our readers a gift package worth over $200, chock-full of their biome-friendly collection that covers everything from your skin to your hair. Three winners will receive Mother Dirt’s Biome-Friendly Shampoo, Cleanser, Moisturizer, Body Oil, Body Wash, Shave Butter, and AO+ Mist—all formulated to keep your skin’s microbiome thriving, leaving you with glowing, healthier skin.

      a Rafflecopter giveaway

      This giveaway is only open to US residents. Ends 10/4/20 at 11:59 PM CST.

      use code EVERYGIRL20 for 20% off

      Mother Dirt
      AO+ Mist Live Probiotic Spray

      The AO+ Mist is the world’s first skincare that incorporates live probiotics, which help to restore and balance your skin’s natural microbiome. The AOB it’s full of helps to keep the peace of your skin—helping the good bacteria thrive while it fights the bad. The result? Healthy, glowing skin.

      Mother Dirt
      Biome-Friendly™ Foaming Cleanser

      This cleanser uses Mother Dirt’s biome-friendly formulation protocol (which means products are tested to ensure they don’t disrupt the skin’s microbiome) to ensure it rids the skin of dirt and makeup without also stripping it of good bacteria.

      Mother Dirt
      Biome-Friendly™ Body Oil

      This body oil absorbs quickly and is applied as a spray, making it the quickest way to deeply hydrate the skin.

      Mother Dirt
      Biome-Friendly™ Body Wash

      Just like the foaming cleanser, this cleans your skin without stripping it of moisture or disrupting its microbiome.

      Mother Dirt
      Biome-Friendly™ Shampoo

      This preservative-free, fragrance-free shampoo is safe for all hair types and will deliver healthy, shiny hair. Bonus: by helping to keep your hair’s natural biome intact, it’ll lead you to be able to wash your hair less frequently—win, win.

      Mother Dirt
      Biome-Friendly™ Moisturizer

      Formulated with squalane and linoleic acid, this moisturizer will leave you looking glowing and hydrated—without ever making you feel greasy. Made with only six plant-based ingredients, it’s the perfect moisturizer to bring you into the colder months.

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

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      in beauty and fashion

      Our Editors’ Favorite Drugstore Beauty Products

      by

      When people ask how I spend my money, my answer is always beauty products, and it’s been that way for as long as I can remember. The desk of my college dorm was filled with makeup and haircare products, and basically every penny of my first job went to building out my beauty collection. However, this doesn’t mean that I’ve always spent my money on the likes of Pat McGrath Labs and Natasha Denona, and I still have quite the affinity for drugstore beauty products years later.There’s no better feeling than roaming the beauty aisles of Target, aimlessly checking out every display, from new products to old favorites. But now that we can’t exactly do that, here’s my solution to getting your drugstore beauty fix. I combed through every editor empties, editor-favorite, product review, and more to come up with our editors’ top drugstore beauty products.

      Skincare

      Neutrogena
      Hydro Boost Hyaluronic Acid Gel Face Moisturizer

      This is my all-time favorite moisturizer in the summer, and it just happens to be available at Target. I love this when my skin is oily, when it’s dry, or when it’s right in-between. The texture is a gel consistency, making it really comfortable and weightless for during the day and right before bed (I love a thick moisturizer sometimes, but in the summer, I am just too damn sweaty). This makes my dry skin feel uber hydrated, but it’s also light for oily skin. Truly, no one can wrong with this moisturizer if you ask me.

      Skin Food Original Ultra-Rich Body Cream

      I wouldn’t shut up about this moisturizer in 2019 (I even included it in my favorites!), convincing multiple of our editors and other people in my life to buy it immediately. If you have dry, sensitive skin that craves moisture, please give this a go. I love it on acne that’s drying up, to give my cheekbones an extra glow, and when I’ve used too many acids and my skin is crying for help.

      Witch Hazel Alcohol-Free Toner Facial Mist

      For a non-drying toner that feels soothing and cooling on the skin, try this one, a favorite from our Director of Brand Partnerships, Ally. This facial mist contains witch hazel which soothes and hydrates the skin while regulating your pH balance. Use this as a makeup refreshing mist, as a toner, or after a hot and sweaty workout.

      SheaMoisture
      Matcha Green Tea And Probiotics Soothing Relief Eye Cream

      This is a new find, but one that I need to tell everyone about. I’m currently doing the Brown Girl Swap by BrownGirlJane by swapping out five of my everyday beauty products for ones by Black-owned brands, and I snagged this one from Target as soon as I ran out of my other eye cream. I love how soothing and relaxing this feels on my eyes. I love it for the morning when my eyes are tired and puffy, but it’s also nice to relax right before bed.

      Peach Slices
      Acne Patches

      These are, hands-down, the best acne dots on the market. I pick these up on every CVS run because they’re affordable and effective. Catch me on basically every Zoom call with one of these on my face, getting rid of zits while I do my magic (AKA this).

      Glow Tonic

      This is the best acid toner at the drugstore, especially if you’re new to acid exfoliation. This contains glycolic acid, an AHA that’s gentle-yet-effective for all skin types. This toner exfoliates away dead skin, revealing bright and glowy skin after just a few uses.

      SheaMoisture
      African Black Soap Clarifying Mud Mask

      A mud mask is essential for oily and acne-prone skin, and this one is one of the best on the market. You’ll immediately notice a clearer, brighter complexion after one use. Plus, this tub is huge, so you’ll never run out of it.

      Garnier SkinActive
      Micellar Cleansing Water All-in-1 Makeup Remover & Cleanser

      Having a good makeup remover on hand is essential, and this one from Garnier is a favorite amongst our editors and readers because it’s effective while remaining super affordable. Apply a little bit to a cotton swab to fix uneven winged liner (guilty as charged), at the end of the day for a quick cleanse (again, guilty), or in the morning to refresh instead of going in with a drying cleanser.

       
      Makeup

      e.l.f Cosmetics
      Primer-Infused Blush

      I included this product in The Everygirl’s makeup collection capsule for a few reasons: it’s affordable, it’s easy to store, and it works as good as any blush should. It doesn’t have a bunch of bells and whistles, but when you want a pretty pop of blush on your cheeks, this goes above and beyond. It’s long-wearing, and I love the shade selection.

      Conceal + Perfect Longwear Concealer

      After one of my most-watched beauty vloggers shared her favorite drugstore products, I snatched up this concealer immediately, and I haven’t looked back since. It’s the perfect finish that looks exactly like your skin, and it never creases on me—ever. I have used this nonstop this year to spot conceal when I don’t want to wear a lot of makeup, and it looks amazing every single time.

      Juvia’s Place
      The Nubian Eyeshadow Palette

      Juvia’s Place has the best eyeshadows at the drugstore—there, I said it. I have three palettes, and I use them all constantly. The Nubian was their first palette, full of warm-toned browns that are perfect for everyday and smokey eyes galore. Their formula is easy to blend, highly-pigmented (meaning it shows up very well on dark skin tones), and doesn’t stain my eyes. I give them a solid 10/10.

      Physicians Formula
      Butter Bronzer

      This bronzer has a cult-following for being basically the best one at the drugstore, and our editors have to agree. Available in six shades (which is OK, but please Physican’s Formula, make a couple more), this bronzer will make you look and feel like it’s summer all year round.

      e.l.f Cosmetics
      Poreless Putty Primer

      This $8 primer blew my socks off the first time I tried it, rivaling a $52 similar one (you’ve maybe heard of it before, *wink*). I rub this into the areas of my face that I want my makeup to stay extra long or that I want to smooth my skin (such as my nose and forehead), and it’s basically an Instagram filter in a tub.

      Wet N Wild
      MegaGlo Highlighting Powder

      Repeat after me: makeup can cost the same as your favorite $5 Target wine and still be amazing. This inexpensive highlighter has been a go-to of mine for years, and it’s a beauty product that I constantly get compliments on because it looks both striking and natural—it’s basically magic. My go-to shade is “Precious Petals,” but I have “Golden Flower Crown” and “Blossom Glow,” and I love them too.

      e.l.f Cosmetics
      Wow Brow Gel

      A brow gel is one of my makeup staples, and this one takes the cake. For less than a latte, you’ll have thick, model-esque brows that won’t even need a touch-up. I’ve repurchased this twice now, and it gets better every time.

      Maybelline
      Cheek Heat Gel-Cream Blush

      I tried drugstore dupes for my favorite high-end products a few months ago, and this one beat the high-end version. The shades, the gel-like texture, and the longwear make this my favorite cream blush at the drugstore.

      Micro Brow Pencil

      You can never go wrong with a classic eyebrow pencil like this one, and NYX’s rivals expensive brands big time. This pencil has a super fine tip that creates hairlike strokes and includes a spooly to blend it all out. I go through brow pencils pretty often, and this is one I repurchase over and over again.

      Butter Gloss

      This gloss has been in the collections of our editors for years, and you’ll basically have to pry it out of our cold, dead hands. It’s the perfect gloss: non-sticky, comes in a variety of gorgeous shades, stays on for hours, and has a cake-like smell that makes putting it on extra enjoyable.

       
      Hair

      Wonder Water

      Editor Maddie reviewed this hair product at the beginning of 2020, and our editors have basically all purchased it by now. In a mere eight seconds, your hair feels like you just stepped out of the salon: shiny, sleek, and so soft. This is super easy to use and works for basically every hair type.

      SheaMoisture
      100% Pure Argan Oil

      A classic argan oil is essential in your hair routine for hot oil treatments, smoothing curls, hydrating ends, and more. But they can get quite expensive, so I love this one from Shea Moisture. It’s your typical argan oil at half the price you’d pay somewhere else. Plus, you get to support a Black-owned business in the process. Don’t skip this one!

      Kristin Ess
      Dry Finish Working Texture Spray

      You’d be hard pressed to find an Everygirl who isn’t an absolute Kristin Ess stan. We’re obsessed with her products and spend our free time discussing her newest launches every time. But one product we always agree on regardless of our hair type is this texture spray. To create a beachy, wavy texture, add extra volume to a blow-out, or keep curls in tact without the crunchiness of a hairspray—this texture spray does it all without feeling sticky or heavy on the hair.

      Kristen Ess
      The One Purple Shampoo

      If you’re prone to brassiness in your blonde (or want to remove yellow-tones from any hair color—looking at all of you with grey and cool-tone dark hair!), this purple shampoo knocks every other one out of the water. It removes brassiness like no other. And while I won’t say it’s the most hydrating purple shampoo on the planet, it isn’t drying enough to be a problem either.

      Salon One-Step Hair Dryer and Volumizer

      Kelly bought this, shared the amazing results in her review, and then we all had to try it. Needless to say, it’s become an Everygirl editor staple for all of us. I use it to blow dry my bangs in place every time I shower, Kelly and Social Editor Abigail love it for volume, and Contributing Editor Blair uses the straightening brush on her coarse, tightly-coiled hair.

      Mielle Organics
      Babassu & Mint Deep Conditioner

      Our Contributing Writer Jeannine Benoit Adams chronicled her journey from relaxed to natural hair and shared this as one of the products that helped her. This deep conditioner helps restore protein and moisture for dry and damaged hair. It’ll leave your hair feeling soft and nourished without weighing it down.

      EverPure Volume Hair Care Collection

      This shampoo and conditioner is perfect for fine or medium hair that needs a little extra oomph. It’s the best volume shampoo and conditioner I’ve ever found. It never makes my hair feel dry or heavy—just full and soft!

      Miss Jessie’s
      Jelly Soft Curls Gel

      Kelly uses this product after the shower to keep her waves soft and smooth. Use it right after the shower on wet hair to help your curl pattern form into soft waves or curls.

      Expressie Quick-Dry Nail Polish

      This is my favorite nail polish at the drugstore, hands down. It dries so fast, and even the lighter shades only need two coats.

      Body

      Blueberry Bliss Curl Control Jelly

      The Everymom’s Contributing Editor Laura put this in her beauty empties, saying that she loves this line at Target and especially this product. She said it keeps her curls in tact even through heat and humidity.

      SheaMoisture
      100% Raw Shea Butter

      Shea butter is a natural, inexpensive way to moisturize your whole body, but especially your feet. Even though pedicure season is over, we all still crave soft, smooth feet. Slather this. on and cuddle up with your favorite blanket and fuzzy socks, and your feet will thank you.

      Frank Body
      Original Coffee Scrub

      While this isn’t technically drugstore, you can pick it up in Ulta with your other drugstore staples. This is the best exfoliator on the market—so good, it’s worth clogging your drain with coffee grounds.

      Wet Skin Shea Oil Body Lotion

      I will never be without this product for as long as I live. At the end of your shower, slather this all over your body and then pat dry. Your skin will feel smooth, soft, and hydrated, and it barely feels like you added an extra step into your routine. Busy people who just can’t with sticky body lotions, this is your match.

      The Honey Pot
      Sensitive Feminine Wash

      It’s always good to have a feminine wash on hand for days you just want to feel a little extra clean, namely during your period. But many of these washes contain fragrances and harsh ingredients that have no business being anywhere near your bits. That’s why we love this one from The Honey Pot. It’s pH-balanced for the vagina, meaning you won’t get any irritation or infections just from trying to feel clean. Plus, it’s ultra-gentle and soothing.

      Moisturizing Cream

      Many of our editors rave about this thick moisturizing cream. Whether they use it all over their body for soft, smooth skin or for extra-dry skin on their face, it’s in constant rotation on their beauty shelves. More