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      in lifestyle and culture

      The incredible Emirati beauty entrepreneur you need to know about

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      Taking the leap to become an entrepreneur can be an incredibly rewarding one, but also a risk. It takes grit and determination to succeed in creating a successful business, something that Marwa Al Mansoori knows all too well.
      Having studied at Edinburgh University in the UK, receiving her bachelor’s degree in tourism management and human resources management, Mansoori went on to work in various strategic and tourism roles across the UAE.

      After securing two impressive networks in both Abu Dhabi and Dubai in both the government and private sector, Mansoori realised in 2018 she wanted to start creating her “own blocks”. For her, she realised this block was in the aesthetic and medical industry which is worth billions.
      “The aesthetic and medical industry has been potentially projected to reach $26.53 billion (Dhs97.4 billion) by 2024,” Mansoori tells Emirates Woman. “Why not create a solution that can triple that amount utilizing the latest technologies? So, this is what started the journey of Malena.”

      The Malena app founded by Mansoori acts as a virtual influencer, guru and guide to Dubai’s cosmetic, aesthetic and beauty scene, providing links between aesthetic service providers and people wanting their services.
      The app compares prices for hundreds of cosmetic procedures including teeth whitening, facials and even plastic surgery from clinics across the UAE.
      The user-friendly layout makes booking appointments easy and also compares prices of new procedures – both non-invasive and invasive – on offer, as well as notifying users when new cosmetic surgeons are in the country.
      The programme allows users to compare prices of hundreds of procedures, from teeth whitening and skin exfoliation to nose jobs, at hundreds of UAE clinics.
      Appointments can be booked with a click of a button and customers are also notified when leading plastic surgeons fly into the country or if new discounted procedures are offered.

      The launch of Mansoori’s venture was supported by the Khalifa Fund – an organisation founded in 2007 to help local enterprises in Abu Dhabi and across the UAE.
      “The Khalifa fund supported us in making us feel we have a hand to guide us through our challenging times – I am sure all entrepreneurs do understand what stage I am talking about,” she says. “The stage where you are still questioning yourself ‘Is my idea good?’. The Khalifa Fund team really will work with you as they are a part of your company and make sure to guide you through the hard times until you know your product has a unique value proposition and you have the right target audience.”
      This Emirati Women’s Day, Mansoori discusses what it took for her to create her own business, what it means to her to be an Emirati woman and what she believes has changed for women in the UAE over the years.
      Launching her own business…
      To be frank its days of 3 hours sleep, heavy load on your back, responsibilities and aches. But in the end, it’s worth it all. Looking back and knowing what you have accomplished. An idea does not have to be great to succeed. You just have to take that idea and make it unique with ongoing commitment in making the idea flourish step by step. Your business should also be flexible in adapting to changing situations. If you’re one of those brave individuals willing to take the chance, there are substantial rewards to be gained from diving into this endeavour.
      What being an Emirati woman means to her…
      An Emirati woman to me is a symbol of aspiration, it is an indication of the progressive leadership, being an Emirati woman does not just play a role within the UAE. However, even if we are miles away in other countries, we are recognized as strong independent women from the UAE. The UAE has left a positive footprint all over the world, now it’s time for us to maintain these footsteps and be a part of spreading it around people all over the world.
      we have in the United Arab Emirates and the country’s continuous support of providing women with ample opportunities, accepting their various contributions to society, and acknowledging their achievements.
      The United Arab Emirates and its leadership has flourished us, Emirati woman, to be committed in carrying our traditions, culture, peace and love wherever we go.
      How the UAE has changed over the years…
      “From desert to skyscrapers”, the rapid pace of the UAE development is something I am really not shocked about, our leadership has always taught us that nothing is impossible and if you put your head and effort to it you will not just achieve the impossible you will also be the first to achieve it.
      The most important thing to her as an Emirati woman…
      The most important thing for me is to carry my beloved UAE name across the globe, whether it’s in business, technology, mentoring, or even as simple as to draw a smile on individuals all over the world. Me as Marwa, I would want to build the same devotion I have towards my leadership and country to the upcoming generations in the UAE and internationally.
      – For more about Dubai’s lifestyle, news and fashion scene follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied More

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      in beauty and fashion

      August 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!

      The Ordinary
      Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution

      Ladies and gents, I’ve done it: I’ve finally found the toner of my dreams. I use it every morning and night after cleansing/before my serums. It feels cooling and gentle but packs a punch for mildly exfoliating, moisturizing, and improving my skin’s texture. I’m a huge fan and will most definitely be buying again! Also, it’s incredibly affordable which makes repurchasing a no-brainer for me.

      Don’t Despair, Repair! Deep Conditioning Hair Mask

      When Briogeo first launched at Sephora, I snagged a mini set of their two cult-favorite products: this deep conditioner and their scalp scrub. I used both of them up and bought this full-size before I even finished the mini. I’ve now had this for almost two years and just finally finished it (AKA if the price freaks you out, trust me: it lasts FOREVER). I have fine, thin, short-to-medium length hair that has never benefitted from a deep conditioner. Everything is too thick and goopy, causing my hair to look greasy and heavy (and I’m not talking normal greasy—I’m talking my ends look like they did when I was 11 and didn’t know how to properly remove conditioner from my hair in the shower). This changed everything (I know, a little dramatic, but hear me out). I use this once a week all through my hair for about 10 minutes, and it leaves my hair soft and hydrated without any oil build-up. My hair feels stronger when I’m using this. I am a sucker for new things, so my plan is to try their new Be Gentle, Be Kind Avocado and Kiwi Hair Mask next. But if I don’t love that one, I will definitely go back to this.

      Glow Maker Serum

      I have a few products in my life that I’m utterly obsessed with and will always talk about on The Everygirl: my Elysium Naturals Body Butter, Milk Makeup Kush Mascara, and now this vitamin C serum. I wrote an entire review of this product a few months ago, but I’ll give you a short gist of why I love it and why I immediately repurchased when I even got close to the bottom. Once I finally started getting my acne under control, I went pretty hard trying to get rid of my scarring, and I saw this was a cult-favorite on Reddit. I immediately noticed my skin looked glowy and plump, which was enough to make me not even care if it did anything for my acne scars because my skin already looked so good. But as I continued using it every single day with my sunscreen, I really started seeing a difference. My scars aren’t completely gone, but they’re fading, and any time I get a new spot, the scar is much less noticeable than before. It’s easy-peasy to use, and I love it so much that I’ve entirely built my morning skincare routine around it. No matter your skin type or skin concerns, you can benefit from having a vitamin C in your routine, and I highly, highly, HIGHLY recommend this one.

      Coconut Deodorant

      I’ll be the first to admit that I’m not all that keen on clean beauty. I wish I cared about it more, but I just don’t. Maybe when I’m older and mature and have my sh*t together. But for right now, I’ll take a few toxins here and there. However, I do have underarms that get irritated easily, especially from anything that contains baking soda. I have a hereditary skin condition called Hidradenitis Suppurativa (usually HS for short) with which I get painful bumps under the skin when my sweat glands get clogged or irritated (sexy!), and it can happen under my arms sometimes if I’m not being careful about the deodorant I use. I tried about three different kinds of baking soda-free deodorants before this one, and without a doubt, this is the best. It goes on clear and smooth and never burns (does this happen to anyone else?), and the best part: it lasts for hours and hours. I am absolutely petrified of smelling bad, and I never have to worry that sweat or B.O. will come through with this on. I’ve found that natural deodorants are a really personal choice, but if you’ve tried everything else and all have failed you, give this one a go.

      First Aid Beauty
      KP Bump Eraser Body Scrub with 10% AHA

      I’ve had KP (Keratosis Pilaris) for as long as I can remember, and had tried way too many scrubs which never seemed to give me any tangible-enough results in reducing the redness and bumpiness on my skin. Then this baby walked into my life, and I was never the same. Real talk, the smell isn’t the greatest (I’m a Taurus—we’re hypersensitive to this stuff), but that is the LEAST of my concerns when a product works this well. I use it twice a week in the shower while I’m deep conditioning my hair, and scrub it on the back of my arms and sides of my legs (my main KP-affected spots). The consistency is almost like wet, gritty sand, and it honestly feels so satisfying to apply. After rinsing, the texture of my skin is baby-soft, and it actually sustains the moisture for days. Already repurchased!

      Nécessaire
      The Body Wash

      At first, the minimal-chic packaging was what caught my attention. Then, I read about how this body wash is made from plant-derived ingredients, scented using essential oils, and pH-balanced for our skin and went “yes, yes, come hither.” I gotta say, I absolutely loved the feel of this. It went on as a gel and lathered quite nicely, and gave me that squeaky-clean feeling I always crave from a successful shower without stripping my skin of any moisture. I also adored the fresh eucalyptus scent, which was light and subtle (NOTE: this also comes in bergamot, sandalwood, and unscented). My only qualm with this is that I wish there were more of it; I used it up in about a month and was really sad to squeeze out the final few drops! Will I be repurchasing? Definitely—but I’ll wait for the cooler months when I’m not showering multiple times a day.

      Immersion Serum Concentrate

      KLUR’s Immersion Serum Concentrate is one of the best hydrating serums I’ve tried. My sensitive skin drinks this up without any irritation. Not to mention it’s packed with good stuff like vitamins C, B5, and E to help brighten, hydrate, and protect the skin’s barrier.

      Paula’s Choice
      Hyaluronic Acid Booster

      My friend and I were recently talking about how now is the time to take better care of our skin, and she introduced me to Paula’s Choice. I love that their philosophy is smart, safe beauty, so the products are cruelty-free and non-irritating. I really don’t use a lot of skincare products but I’ve heard great things about hyaluronic acid, so I ordered the Booster to try it out. I love how my skin instantly feels so fresh and hydrated after I use it. The Booster has quickly became a part of my daily routine and I’ll definitely order it again!

      Stroke of Brilliance Brightening Serum

      I’ve tried a lot of Vitamin C serums in my day (gotta get that glow!), but no product has been as glow-worthy as this brightening serum from Versed. Not only is this product totally clean, cruelty-free, vegan, and good for just about any skin type, it’s loaded with ingredients like licorice root and vitamin B3 to brighten skin, reduce the appearance of discoloration, and prevent aging. Oh, and did I mention it’s under $20 and lasts for months? I saw effects immediately, even compared to the other vitamin C serums I have on my skincare shelf. You best believe I’ll be stocking up again (and won’t think twice about it since it’s so affordable!).

      ROSEN Skincare
      Rose Water Face Dew

      I never really got the hype about face mists—until I tried this one. ROSEN Skincare is my absolute favorite skincare brand—and with good reason. This mist leaves you with the most stunning glow (not to mention all-day moisture). It’s the perfect little pick-me-up in the middle of the day, or it works well to seal in the rest of your products at the end of your morning or evening skincare routine. (It’s currently available at Nordstrom, but it’s cheaper to buy it directly from ROSEN!)

      NatureWell
      Extra Virgin Coconut Oil Moisturizing Cream

      When I was younger, my mom always told me to moisturize, moisturize, moisturize, and let me tell you, ever since then I’ve been particular with my moisturizers. I was always a die-hard Cetaphil girl (still am at night time) but those mornings that I’m craving a glowing, moisturized face with the divine smell of coconut I use this. I tend to use it in the mornings after I rinse off my face and sometimes my body if I’m feeling it. The best part is that it keeps me moisturized all day long with no oily feeling on my face, it lasts me MONTHS and I usually buy one every time I’m at Sam’s club because it ALWAYS sells out, but it’s also currently available at Walmart, Amazon, and The Vitamin Shoppe. I’m no Hyram (Tik Tok fans) but if you love coconut and you’re looking for a healthy, moisturized glow, you need this!

       

      Pacific Sunrise Ultra Hydrating Shea Sugar Scrub

      YouTube is usually where I find new products to try out, and after a skincare product roundup from one of my favorite YouTubers, I decided to give a new exfoliant a try: Tree Hut Pacific Sunrise Shea Sugar Scrub in Japanese Yuzu. I usually don’t exfoliate every day in the shower since most exfoliators are meant to be used sparingly on skin, but this scrub was safe to use on almost a daily basis, as the beads are small and not rough on sensitive areas of the body. This scrub is also thick enough to lather on very generously and rinse off without any residue, leaving you with more than enough product to last some time. This affordable scrub is now a part of my new daily shower regimen.

      Equilibria
      Mindful Mineral Soak

      If you’re like me, you’ve probably gone through quite a few quarantine phases. There was baking. There was a moment with excessive daily walks around the neighborhood. There was even a period where we really thought things would get back to normal and we’d all take $49 flights to Paris.
      Currently, I am soaking up (see what I did there?) the bubble bath period of quarantine. At the end of a long day, I love to light a candle, turn on a relaxing playlist, and unwind with Equilibria’s CBD bath salt. It smells fantastic and I have really noticed a difference compared to my other soaking tinctures. I find that I sleep better and feel more energized for my morning workout. Equilibria also has bath bombs, but I love the ability to control the amount with the salts.

      Living Proof
      Perfect Hair Day Shampoo

      I will sing this shampoo’s praises until I can’t anymore. I love it. I love it. I love it. I always buy the value size, which initially feels like a big investment but actually saves you quite a bit of money and lasts forever. Whenever Sephora has one of their seasonal sales, I try to snag a bottle so I can save even more. The formula doesn’t feel too heavy on my hair and adds just a touch of natural volume. I’m truly in a LTR with this shampoo.

      Living Proof
      Restore Repair Hair Mask

      While COVID kept me away from my favorite hairdresser, I found myself looking for a product that would help bring some luster and shine to my locks. A friend recommended this mask to me after it helped her completely revitalize her over-bleached mane. While I love Living Proof and saw the difference it made for my blonde friend, I don’t think it was worth the splurge for me. Because my hair wasn’t damaged, I didn’t benefit from it the same way she did.
      After finishing this, I realized that if shine was all I was after, I could go a much more budget-friendly route. I’m now using this Shea Butter Hair Mask for about 1/5th of the price and I am in love. Plus, my hair smells like the Hawaiian vacation I’m desperate to take.
      Moral of the story? If your hair is damaged and in need of serious repair, splurge on Living Proof. If you’re only looking for moisture and shine, save your hard-earned dollars and go drugstore.

      Texturizing Hair Spray

      This is another of my holy grail products I just can’t quit. It does the best work when you’re trying to revitalize day two hair. The formula absorbs oil and refreshes your ends, acting like a dry shampoo of sorts. The finished product is a tossled and voluminous texture while effortlessly holding your style. No stiff crinkly bits—just natural hold. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

      Juliette Has a Gun
      Not A Perfume Spray

      Full confession: I bought this because it was cool and trending. What can I say? I can’t resist being part of the conversation. But I never expected I would be forcing the cap off to get every last drop out. This not-a-perfume-but-is-a-perfume is cozy and faint; perfect for someone who doesn’t want an overpowering scent. I’ve already repurchased in the bigger size.

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

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      in beauty and fashion

      6 Brands I’ve Bought From and Loved This Year

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      Buying from a new brand can be a little scary if you’ve never tried anything from them before. Maybe their shipping takes a while, or they have a wonky return policy. There’s so much research involved that it seems easier to just buy from the companies you already know and trust. But some of the best items come from brands you’ve maybe never heard of or tried. A few months ago, I vowed to start focusing more on small businesses, especially those owned by BIPOC. Don’t get me wrong, I’ll still buy clothes from H&M, and I’ll never stop shopping at Sephora, but I wanted to see what I could snag from brands that weren’t so big. These are just a selection of the brands I’ve tried recently, why I love them, and my favorite pieces.

      If you’re an eyeshadow lover, it’s likely you’ve heard of Coloured Raine. Their eyeshadow formula is regarded as one of the best because it’s highly pigmented and impactful. They went into Target stores about two years ago, and I’ve been a fan ever since. I recently just purchased a new palette from them, and I have become the meme of the woman who brings a plastic chair to the mailbox to wait for her package. They also have liquid lipsticks and complexion products that I’m dying to get my hands on. Those colors! 

       

      Maelove had been on my radar for a long time, but it wasn’t until I saw their Glow Maker serum described as the better dupe to a Skinceuticals $166 serum all over Reddit that I wanted to try it. I’ve never been consistent with my skincare routine, and this was one of the first skincare products I ever repurchased. I just notice such a difference in my skin when I do and don’t use this product. It adds just the right amount of glow to my combination skin without looking oily or feeling uncomfortable. Plus, I’ve noticed a long-term difference in the pigmentation of my acne scars. The pictures in this story I think really do it justice (I mean, my glow? Give me a break). Watch out for this in many editor empties to come!

       

      I know I said I was talking about small brands, but I’d be lying if I said the majority of my wardrobe doesn’t come from Target at this point. And if supporting small, sustainable businesses isn’t in your budget or you’re plus-size (hello, me!), I don’t see anything wrong with doing what you can, and Target is a favorite. I love that they sell basically everything in an XXL (fits a 16/18), but if I need to size up, a lot of their in-house brands sell plus too. My current favorite for spring and summer has been their Wild Fable brand. Everything is trendy and cute, but the price tag is exactly what I want to pay for those types of pieces. In the spring, I got gorgeous bright-colored sweaters, and I’ve bought a few dresses from this line this summer as well. And don’t worry that you’re getting poor quality since the prices are so good. Some of these prices rival clothes I own from way more expensive brands.

       

      Although CBD was the “it” wellness trend of 2019, it’s become an absolute staple in the mess that is 2020. I’ve noticed the biggest difference in my stress levels, sleep, and chronic pain since I started using Equilibria CBD this year. Everyone’s dosing is different, so I love that Equilibria offers free consultations with a dosing specialist to discuss what will be the best regimen for you. When we originally talked, my main concern was addressing the pain I get with my endometriosis, but a few months later, I spoke with her about needing a little extra help regulating my mood and daily anxiety (a classic tale for many this year, I’m sure). I began taking the Daily Drops twice a day—once in the morning, once at night—along with the Relief Cream and Mindful Soak as needed. I’m obsessed with the Mint Flavored Daily Drops—they actually taste good, and I love mixing them with coffee or my morning smoothie! I even love my Daily Drops as a face serum to help reduce inflammation and redness after using harsh acid exfoliators. Basically, the options with this product are endless.
      Equilibria is a small business based in Chicago (love!) cofounded by two women who wanted to make a product for women. At the core of Equilibria, you can tell they wanted to help women, especially that they market their CBD as good for period cramps, pelvic pain, and more. I have fallen in love with their mission almost as much as I love the products!
      Use coupon code “theeverygirl” for 20 percent off your first order! 

      Equilibria
      Brilliance Box

      The best starter box for someone new to CBD.
      Use coupon code “theeverygirl” for 20 percent off your first order! 

      Equilibria
      Mindful Mineral Soak

      Use coupon code “theeverygirl” for 20 percent off your first order! 

      I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again: candles are sometimes considered a beauty product, and for the sake of this article, I am in agreeance. Boy Smells is a small, independently-owned candle line made in Los Angeles I’ve absolutely fallen in love with over the last six months. I snagged Cedar Stack from their Pride collection in which a portion of proceeds go to The Trevor Project. I let it sit on my credenza for about three weeks waiting to burn it because it was just so pretty. The yellow color brightened up my apartment, and the Boy Smells branding is on point. But I finally lit the candle the other day (a little Monday treat), and I fell in love and immediately ordered more. The throw is fantastic—I could smell the candle throughout my entire apartment (not that it’s very big, LOL). I have really grown to love higher-end candles because I love how the scents are layered. This isn’t all hot, sexy man; there’s a hint of sweetness. This candle is so unique, and I can’t think of a single person who wouldn’t love the scent.

      Boy Smells
      Slow Burn Scented Candle

      I’ve never seen a review in which someone said they didn’t love this scent. It was formulated in collaboration with Kasey Musgraves!

       

      I have to really give this one to Katie Sturino of The12ishStyle. Katie (I’m a huge fan of her and Megababe, and it does make it better that she’s an Everygirl too!) does a series on her Instagram sharing how things fit on her size 18 body, and she did one all about thongs. I have always struggled with finding good underwear as a plus-size person. Nothing is wide enough, giving me a major front wedgie at all times. Plus, everything rolls down the second I bend over or honestly even more. She gave really high marks to Parade’s underwear, and I ordered two pairs right away. 
      First of all, the ordering experience was really easy and quick. I love that everything is shown on plus-size models too, so I didn’t have to wonder how something would look on me. I also love that everything comes in plus. There are a lot of brands that offer plus now, but it’s only for select items, which is honestly annoying as all hell. I liked that I could order anything I wanted from their site. They also have a ton of options: High-Rise Thong, High-Cut Thong, Briefs, Cheeky, High-Rise Cheeky, and Boyshorts. Everyone has a different preference for their underwear (I’m a big High-Rise Cheeky girl), so there’s something for everyone. I also love that these are comfortable but also sexy. I’m a big lingerie-wearer, and I feel like I can wear these just as much to be sexy with a partner as I do to go to the grocery store in a pair of jeans. They pass every plus-size underwear test in my book.

        More

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      in beauty and fashion

      10 Foods That Will Boost Skin Glow

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      OK, so it sounds cliché to say “beauty starts from within,” but that old-school aphorism is pretty accurate when it comes to skin health (also self-confidence and kindness, but that’s an article for another day). Just like processed foods might cause breakouts, and eating sugar might cause premature aging (haven’t you heard of “sugar face?“), certain foods can have a reverse effect on skin health. McKenzie Jones, RDN, CLT, explained, “Since we are what we eat, it’s no surprise that diet and beauty go hand-in-hand. Foods that promote a healthy, balanced lifestyle also promote youthful-looking skin and can help keep you looking radiant from the inside, out.”Beauty foods may not sound revolutionary now, but I first heard about the beauty benefits of nutrition when I read Eat Pretty: Nutrition for Beauty, Inside and Out in 2014, and my mind was blown (yes, I have always been a huge nerd). After all, why shell out half your paycheck on fancy serums and treatments when you can boost glow from the produce aisle of the grocery store (OK fine, I’ll still be spending $$$ on skincare products, but at least it will double the effort, right)? Add these foods to your grocery list this week and get ready for a major glow-up. 

      Source: @cynthialions

      1. Avocados
      Apparently, that viral avocado café doubles as a skincare mecca, and Instagram’s favorite toast is just as good for your complexion as it is for your feed. “Avocados contain healthy fats (like polyunsaturated and monounsaturated) that work to keep skin flexible and moisturized,” Valerie Agyeman, RDN, my personal girl crush and founder of Flourish Heights, explained. “Monounsaturated fatty acids keep the surface of your skin moist, while polyunsaturated fatty acids guard the skin from sun damage. Plus, they are packed with antioxidants like vitamin C, vitamin E, and carotenoids, which help protect against free radical damage.” In other words, load up on the millennial-beloved fruit (yes, it is a fruit!) for skin hydration and radiant glow. 
      Try it:

      2. Tomatoes
      Pasta lovers, rejoice! A study by researchers at Manchester and Newcastle Universities found that eating five tablespoons of tomato paste daily helped improve the skin’s ability to protect against harmful UV rays, thanks to the antioxidant lycopene (AKA what makes the tomato its signature red shade). You know from your mom telling you to wear SPF that UV-protection does not only help prevent more serious conditions like skin cancer, but can also protect against signs of premature aging and dark spots, making anything that might protect against UV-damage officially a beauty food. Why tomato paste, you ask? Because cooking tomatoes increases their lycopene levels, so go ahead and load up on pasta sauce (but still wear your SPF!). 
      Try it:

      3. Lemon juice
      As if you needed another reason to DIY spa water, lemon juice is packed with vitamin C. Stefanie Wilkerson, RDN, explained, “Vitamin C helps produce collagen, and works as an antioxidant to neutralize free radicals that can damage our cells.” Hello supple, smooth skin! Bonus: while it is acidic, lemon has alkalizing effects in the body, meaning it might help balance pH levels. This is beneficial for your complexion, because when pH levels are out of whack, the skin can become sensitive, irritated, or acne-prone. Not to mention that adding lemon makes us want to drink more water (and that’s a huge skincare perk). 
      Try it:

      Source: @kayla_seah

      4. Garlic
      Not only is garlic super delicious on bread, but it can be good for your skin too. Jennifer Irvine, nutritional expert and founder of healthy food delivery service, The Pure Package, told Get the Gloss that garlic is “full of a naturally occurring chemical called allicin, which acts against harmful bacteria when digested. This includes bacteria that can cause acne and other skin infections.” If acne is holding you back from the flawless skin of your dreams, try adding a little more garlic into your diet for potential benefits (as long as it doesn’t bother your stomach, obvi). 
      Try it:

      5. Sweet Potatoes
      Sure, you could apply endless serums and face masks, or you could just nibble on some sweet potato fries. Joking aside, the orange alternative to the classic white potato is an excellent source of beta carotene, which converts to vitamin A in the body. May Zhu RDN, the founder of Nutrition Happens, explained, “If you’re a skincare junkie, you might recognize the term ‘retinol,’ which is essentially a different form of vitamin A. Vitamin A (from foods like sweet potatoes) helps with skin turnover by promoting the maturation of skin cells.” You know what that means: fewer wrinkles, clearer skin, and a glowing complexion. Good thing sweet potatoes are one of my favorite foods (not to brag or anything). 
      Try it:

      Source: @flourishheights

      6. Blueberries
      You’ve probably heard about the importance of antioxidants for skin glow from skincare bottles or your dermatologist. That’s because antioxidants are one of the most important factors in protecting skin’s health, and blueberries are one of the easiest ways to get them in your diet. The sweet little berry you used to pick during childhood summers is basically the king (or queen!) of antioxidants. They’re believed to have one of the highest antioxidant levels of all common fruits and vegetables, meaning they’re not only incredibly nutritious, but pack major glow-boosting benefits as well. 
      Try it:

      7. Leafy greens
      What can’t leafy greens do? “Both kale and spinach are rich in a variety of potent antioxidants that help reduce skin inflammation,” Joshua Zeichner, the director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital, told Allure. Also, greens like collard greens, spinach, and kale contain zeaxanthin, which is an antioxidant that can help even out skin tone. I know he was a cartoon, but no wonder Popeye had such good skin! (Anyone else notice his flawless complexion? Nope, just me?) Aim for adding leafy greens to at least two meals a day for optimal benefits.
      Try it:

      Source: @josie.santi

      8. Flaxseeds
      Seeds that are loaded with omega-3s and fiber (like flaxseeds) are a staple in plant-based diets, but they’re also great for healthy skin. A study in the British Journal of Nutrition found that participants who ate about half a teaspoon of flaxseeds experienced significantly less skin irritation and redness in six weeks, along with better-hydrated skin. Tsippora Shainhouse, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Beverly Hills, agreed, “Omega-3 fatty acids help to maintain cellular health, reduce inflammation, and maintain a healthy skin barrier.” Add about half a teaspoon to your smoothie or even your favorite pasta recipe to easily incorporate the superfood into your diet. 
      Try it:

      Source: rawpixel

      9. Fatty Fish
      Luckily for seafood lovers, many nutritionists (and Victoria Beckham) swear by fatty fish like salmon for skin hydration and glow. Rima Kleiner, MS, RD, founder of Dish on Fish, said, “Omega-3s and collagen help retain moisture in the skin, nourishing it from the inside out. Seafood is rich in both omega-3s and collagen. Eating oily fish like salmon and tuna at least twice a week will help lower your risk of dry, cracked skin.” FYI, The American Heart Association also recommends eating 3.5 ounces of fatty fish at least two times per week, but talk to your doctor about what’s best for your diet and lifestyle. Also, opt for wild-caught fish (instead of farm-raised) whenever possible. 
      Try it:

      10. Dark Chocolate
      Now for potentially the best news ever, dark chocolate isn’t just a dessert; it’s officially a beauty food (*buys all the dark chocolate bars at Whole Foods*). According to one study, cocoa’s antioxidants can protect the skin from oxidative stress that leads to premature skin aging. Let your mom know that the chocolate addiction you had as a kid was actually good for you (that is, if your chocolate of choice was at least 75 percent cacao). My personal advice is to opt for as “dark” as you can (like 80-90 percent cacao), to avoid added sugars. Otherwise, satisfy your sweet tooth and PMS cravings while boosting skin glow. 
      Try it:

      What’s your favorite beauty food? More

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      I Look at Beauty Products All Day—These Are the Deals I’d Snag During the Nordstrom Sale

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      High-end beauty products rarely go on sale. To be honest, I think it adds to the allure; they’re less attainable and expensive and beautiful and obviously, my favorite thing on this very earth. But when they do go on sale, it’s often hard to sift through what’s actually good and what should probably stay miles away from your shopping cart. You might wonder, “Well, there has to be a reason this is on sale, right?!” Often, I’d agree with you, but the one exception is Nordstrom’s Anniversary Sale.You’ve likely heard about it a million times by now, but the Nordstrom sale is filled with incredible beauty products, from makeup to body care to gadgets to skincare and more, and they’re all on a pretty hefty discount. Most of my day (honestly, during work and during my free time) is spent looking at, testing, researching, sourcing, and pining after beauty products. I have a pretty good handle on what’s out there, what has positive reviews, and what is absolutely worth your money. So, I did what any good editor does, and I sifted through every beauty product in the Nordstrom sale to see what was actually worth it. If I had an endless amount of money (er, an incredibly high Nordstrom credit card limit), these are what I’d pick up. Some of them I love so much I’d even recommend them at full price, and some are just a deal you can’t beat.

      Anastasia Beverly Hills
      Brow Bae-sics Kit

      If you’ve ever, IDK, been on the Internet, you’ll know that Anastasia Beverly Hills makes the best brow products. It’s what makeup artists and celebrities and everyone with good brows has in their arsenal. This deal is outrageous—at $45, you’re almost getting the brow gel totally free. If you’re a fan of these two products, this is a deal you can’t miss.

      Jumbo Creme de Corps Bottle with Pump

      Another deal you just cannot miss, this jumbo size moisturizer from Kiehl’s sells out every single year. It’s their best-selling body cream, known for being a lightweight, all-over body moisturizer that sinks in quickly and gives lasting hydration to the skin, in a jumbo size that will last you until next Anniversary Sale. If your skin is as dry as ever from the summer sun (and preparing to be even drier when the cold air comes in!), you’ll want a heavy-duty moisturizer like this in your collection.

      Full-Size Gold Lust Dry Shampoo & Dry Texturizing Spray Set

      I look at the Anniversary Sale as a time to invest in items at a lower price point than I would typically want to spend on something, and I love getting high-end beauty products on a major discount, like this set from Oribe. Quite possibly the sexiest dry shampoo and dry texture spray on the planet, these products have been at the top of my wishlist for years. With this set, you save over $30. If these have been on your wishlist too, now’s the time to try!

      Set of 5 Travel Size Limited Edition Scented Candles

      Nordstrom considers candles a beauty product, and so do I. Diptyque is not an inexpensive line, but your home looks 10x prettier when you have one of these candles in it (I don’t make the rules!). Instead of investing in one candle, this sampler lets you try all of their most popular scents (Feu de Bois will become your favorite fall scent!) for less than what you’d spend on one candle alone. This set is an Anniversary Sale exclusive, so don’t let this deal pass you by!

      Charlotte Tilbury
      Pillow Talk Lip Secrets Set

      Charlotte Tilbury’s Pillow Talk lipstick is the best-selling lipstick in the world for a reason, and if you’re going to splurge, why not snag the entire collection? I love this lip liner with my whole heart; it’s natural and easy, and it doesn’t rub off on the inside of my mask. And the lipstick and gloss, in the same gorgeous neutral-pink, are perfect to bring in your bag for when you need a pick-me-up (or you just have to touch-up after all that mask sweat).

      Midnight Blue SinglePass Curl 1.25-Inch Professional Ceramic Curling Iron

      If you’ve had your eye on a new hair tool, now’s the time to get it. T3’s products are expensive, but the quality is there. You’ll save over $50 picking this up in the sale, which is what ultimately put it on my personal wishlist! In one pass, you’ll have polished curls that last all day and never look frizzy—which is major if you’re like me and hate curling your hair and it falling in 30 minutes.

      Bobbi Brown
      Full Size Vitamin Enriched Face Base Duo

      UM, HELLO. DEAL ALERT. Two of these face primers for the price of one??? Add to cart immediately. This primer is impeccable for those with dry skin. It’s a mix between a moisturizer and a primer, so it soothes and hydrates your skin while gripping onto makeup. Grab one for yourself, and give the other to your BFF for the holidays!

      Living Proof
      Jumbo Size Perfect hair Day Set

      This is the set to beat all sets, everyone. Not only does it include our editors’ favorite dry shampoo of all time, but also two jumbo sizes of Living Proof’s best-selling shampoo and conditioner. You will never run out of this shampoo and conditioner, which is made for all hair types and adds weightless moisture to your hair without over-stripping. Our editors love this shampoo and conditioner to keep their hair fresh for as long as possible, and then topping it off with the dry shampoo for clean (looking!) hair for days and days.

      Dr. Dennis Gross
      Skincare Alpha Beta Extra Strength Daily Peel Set

      If you know anything about the skincare universe, you’ll have heard of these. It’s a daily peel system that uses AHA, BHA, and mandelic acids to exfoliate and renew the skin, plus an extra pad that immediately hydrates and nourishes. These are a favorite amongst makeup artists because they exfoliate and hydrate your skin in two simple steps, prepping it for a smooth makeup application. While they’re known for being great, they’re not known for their price. This set comes in at a whopping $252, but you save over $90 picking them up in the sale. This set includes a full-size of the peel pads, a travel-size package, and a travel-size cleanser from Dr. Dennis Gross.

      Cura Professional Digital Ionic Hair Dryer

      I recently got a T3 hair dryer, and it was the biggest upgrade from a drugstore one I picked up on a whim years and years ago. I noticed an immediate difference after using it just once. My hair dried faster and with less frizz, and the biggest difference was how healthy my hair felt afterward. I hated blowdrying my hair for years because I despised the fried, crunchy texture it left on my hair. Turns out, I was just using a dryer that wasn’t right for my hair type. You’ll save 80 bucks snagging this in the sale, and I promise you won’t regret it!

      Mario Badescu
      The Essentials Set

      This essentials set from Mario Badescu includes all of our editors’ favorite products from the line. It’s already a great price, so why not pick it up at a discount too!? We all love the facial spray to set makeup and refresh our face throughout the day. Plus, the Drying Lotion is a must-have if you get cystic or hormonal acne (read: period breakouts).

      White Trinity Facial Toning Kit

      NuFace is one of the best beauty gadgets I’ve ever tried because it *actually* works. It uses microcurrents to target the muscles in the face to keep working and produce more collagen, as well as tightens and sculpts the face. Whether you’re worried about fine lines and wrinkles or just want to tighten up your face a bit, this product works both immediately and over time, meaning you’ll notice a difference right away and bigger changes over time. I am really self-conscious about the contours of my face, and using this once a day really helped boost my confidence. This system comes with everything you need, such as the Gel Primer (tip: don’t try to NuFace without this because it will feel like you’re being electrocuted!) and the charging stand.
      This is currently sold out (it’s such a great deal, guys), but keep checking because things might come back in stock!

      All-Star Hair Heroes Set

      Say hello to my favorite hair product of all time but now, at a discount! Briogeo is one of my favorite hair brands because all of the products are clean, effective, and not-cheap-but-not-outrageously-priced-either, ya know? I bought a tub of the Don’t Despair, Repair Deep Conditioner almost two years ago, and I still have about five uses left. It lasts truly forever on my short-to-medium length, fine hair, but I’m sure thick and curly/coily hair would get plenty of uses out of it too. This set also includes their Scalp Scrub (another favorite of mine—it smells like peppermint, makes your scalp tingle in the most satisfying way, and lifts build-up from dry shampoo and other hair products) and a full-size of their leave-in conditioning spray. I’ll be picking this up to replenish my deep conditioner (I will never be without this, y’all) and get a few extras at a discount!

      Veil Mineral Primer & Translucent Setting Powder Duo

      Hello, meet another favorite product of mine! My favorite face powder on earth is Hourglass’s Veil Translucent Setting Powder. If you have dry skin that gets cakey and dehydrated when you put powder on it, this is the powder-saving-grace for you. This set includes the travel size (which is normally $18), but don’t let that fool you: it lasted me over a year of daily use before I ran out! This set also includes the Veil Primer, an oil-free weightless primer that reduces the look of pores and smoothes the skin before foundation. It’s one of Hourglass’s best-selling products that I’ve never tried, so I’m intrigued to pick it up in this sale!

      Pure Silk Queen Pillowcases

      This set of two pillows is an Anniversary Sale exclusive, meaning you can’t get it anywhere else! We love these pillows (and their hair ties, their headbands, their face masks—literally drape me in Slip everything) to keep our hair in place and damage-free while we’re sleeping, reading in bed, lounging, or whatever else you like to do in bed. They’ve kept my fine hair from breaking in the back (does anyone else deal with this? my stylist scolds me for ponytails every time), but our long-haired editors love that it doesn’t snag and pull out their hair while sleeping. Not to mention, they just look chic AF. White not your speed? They have this absolutely gorgeous caramel shade too!

      Kate Somerville
      ExfoliKate Intensive Exfoliating Treatment

      I got a sample of this exfoliator years ago, and I haven’t stopped thinking about it since. It combines a gentle physical exfoliant with lactic acid to exfoliate chemically too. Your face will feel baby’s butt smooth after using this, making it a great primer for a hydrating or brightening mask. This is certainly a splurge, but you’re saving almost $200 by getting it in the sale. Consider this your fix while you can’t make your spa appointments, and the price actually doesn’t seem so bad. (It’s all about tricking your brain, people.)

      Yves Saint Laurent
      Rouge Volupté Shine Lipstick Set

      To unbox this gorgeous set of YSL lipsticks would be the little treat I need to get through the next months of social distancing. Honestly, that’s all it really is. The products have fantastic reviews, and these two shades would work on a variety of skin tones. The gifting potential is high—imagine your mom’s face when she opens this up on her birthday. Best daughter award, and she doesn’t even have to know you bought it on sale.

      Beauty Blender
      Electric Feels Set

      Surprise, surprise: Beauty Blenders go bad. But the trick is to always have extras on hand so you’re never without it, and this set makes it really easy. It includes two of their original famous sponges and their solid cleanser, for less than the price of two sponges on their own. My favorite way to use a beauty sponge like this is to pat it across my entire face when my makeup is done to take away any of the powder finishes and leave my skin looking hydrated and airbrushed.

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      People Are Sleeping Less in Quarantine—Here Are Our Favorite Concealers to Pretend We Are

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      This season of life has come with a lot of surprise challenges. Who knew I’d stay up all night listening to Taylor Swift for days on end? Or that I’d learn the problem with my finances all this time was actually me going out to eat every other day? But the most surprising of all is that even though I spend the most time at home as ever, I get significantly less sleep. And I know I’m not the only one! The Sleep Foundation explained that everything from raised anxiety to changes to daily life to extra screen time can cause our sleep to decrease in length and quality. So we know we’re not sleeping, and while there are definitely a few healthy, natural ways to get that under control, you know my style: I’ll show you how to Band-Aid the problem for a little bit. What better way to hide all the sins of yesterday than concealer!? Until you can get those glorious few hours of sleep, these will save you for any shopping trip, meeting, or virtual happy hour you have planned—and they’ll do it without looking cakey, dry, or heavy on your face. Here are our favorites (and a reader-favorite!): 

      Best for dry skin:

      UOMA Beauty
      Stay Woke Luminous Brightening Concealer

      If concealers typically make you feel parched under the eyes after a few hours, you need a creamy formula that keeps its moisture all day long, and Uoma’s Stay Woke concealer does just that. It’s hydrating right from the start and blends seamlessly into your skin or any foundation you might have underneath it. The creaminess doesn’t take away from the coverage though, so you’ll be sure to cover up those dark circles in a cinch.

      Best for oily skin:

      Shape Tape Concealer

      As someone with dry under eyes, I never found love with this concealer, but I can see how it would be an absolute dream for oily skin (and also, it’s one of the top-selling concealers in the world, so maybe it’s me!). When I’ve used it on the parts of my complexion that get oily, it stays put all day long and doesn’t move, which is exactly what you want in a concealer. It boasts full-coverage, all-day wear that causes minimal creasing.

      Best for high-coverage:

      Juvia’s Place
      I Am Magic Concealer

      Of all the concealers on this list, this ranks as the highest coverage. If you’re rocking deep, dark circles, this will be your saving grace. However, the high-coverage doesn’t result in cakey or dry under eyes either. Instead, you’ll notice a smooth canvas that barely needs set with a powder. Coming in at 24 shades, you’re bound to find one that works best with your skin tone.

      Reader and editor-favorite:

      Radiant Creamy Concealer

      This concealer is basically makeup royalty. It’s in the makeup bag of most celebrities, beauty editors, and normal people alike. Our editor Maddie once said it best in our annual empties: “It’s super natural looking while still giving the perfect amount of coverage, and never creases or looks dry (even on my crazy-dry skin). I’ve been loving putting a little of this under my eyes and on blemishes when I work from home to put a little put-together and awake. I love that I can wear it on its own without it ever looking like I’m obviously wearing concealer. This was an obvious re-purchase for me—I’ll never be without it.”

      Best at the drugstore:

      Conceal + Perfect Longwear Concealer

      This isn’t the first time I’ve raved about this concealer. It’s my favorite concealer I’ve ever found at the drugstore, and I think it’s ideal for all skin types. It has a natural matte finish, but don’t let that deter you dewy girls: it still looks gorgeous and natural when paired with your favorite dewy moisturizers, foundations, and highlighters. I love this all over my face to spot conceal as well because the coverage is amazing and it blends out to look just like my skin. At under $10, go ahead and buy your summer and winter shade.

      Best splurge:

      Armani Beauty
      Power Fabric Concealer

      I know this one is a little on the pricey side, but I couldn’t leave it out because it’s basically the only concealer I’ve worn the past five months. It is everything you want in a concealer: light, natural, hydrating, creaseless, and blendable. The price might put an ache in your neck for a second, but you only have to use a little bit so the concealer goes a long way. I also use it as a foundation sometimes, and that is absolutely *chef’s kiss*. I feel a little fancy and extra confident every time I use it, and that’s worth double the price to me!

      Most long-wearing:

      Fenty Beauty
      Pro Filt’r Instant Retouch Concealer

      Fenty Beauty has to make its way into basically any roundup because the products are truly made for everyone. I could have given this “Best Shade Range” or “Best for Special Occasions” or “Best for All Skin Types,” but the magic of this concealer lies in its staying power. Dab it on the under eyes and without setting it, it lasts hours upon hours. If you set it (ideally with the Fenty powder, which I can vouch for, and it’s one of the best!), it’s over for your under eyes. Dark circles who? Never met her. This concealer has all the properties of those above, but how long it lasts without creasing or separating is what makes it stand out. If you have a hard time with concealers rubbing off on you, try this. More