Home Blog Page 107

5 Ways Your Social Connections Can Boost Your Longevity

Admin
-
0
5 Ways Your Social Connections Can Boost Your Longevity

If a random yap session or do-nothing hangout has left you feeling warm and glowy, you know how even everyday interactions can lift your spirits. “But social connection isn’t just mood-boosting,” Kasley Killam, MPH, a social scientist and author of The Art and Science of Connectiontells SELF. “It’s core to how your body is working and a driver of physical health and longevity.”

That’s the idea behind the concept of social health, which Killam defines as “the dimension of your overall well-being that comes from your relationships.” In 2025, the World Health Organization released a report designating social health as a “vital but often overlooked pillar of health,” and “just as essential as physical and mental health.” And experts increasingly suggest thinking of strong social connections as just as significant a contributor to longevity as big hitters like exercise and a nutritious diet.

Researchers have measured connection in different ways—for instance, the number of ties you have to community organizations and groups; the extent to which you can lean on people if you’re in a jam; and how satisfied you are with the relationships you have, Elliot Friedman, PhD, a professor of gerontology at Purdue University who studies healthy aging, tells SELF. And studies on all these dimensions of socializing have uncovered positive links with longevity, he says. Read on to learn the main reasons why, and how to nourish your social life for the long haul.

5 ways a strong social network can add years to your life

1. It softens the impact of stress.

Chronic stress strains your heart, impedes immune function, interferes with digestion, even risks impairing focus and memory. While we can’t avoid stress entirely, having friends and loved ones can help lessen the everyday burden.

If something bad happens, good friends can supply “a shoulder to cry on, or help you think about it differently, or find the silver lining, all of which can help you feel more at ease,” Dr. Friedman explains. In a broader sense, your relationships can also keep you from wallowing in your struggles. “Knowing that people are around who care about you, who are there to support you, can give you the oomph to move forward,” Claudia Trudel-Fitzgerald, PhD, assistant professor of psychology at University of Quebec at Trois-Rivières and affiliate scientist at Harvard’s Lee Kum Sheung Center for Health and Happiness, tells SELF.

Puig Tops €5bn in Record 2025 Sales as Profitability Beats Guidance

Admin
-
0
Puig Tops €5bn in Record 2025 Sales as Profitability Beats Guidance

THE WHAT? Puig reported FY 2025 results showing record net revenue above €5 billion, strong like-for-like growth and improved profitability, continuing to outperform the premium beauty market.

THE DETAILS Puig delivered FY 2025 net revenue of €5,042 million, up +7.8% like-for-like (top end of its 6–8% outlook range) and +5.3% reported. Adjusted EBITDA rose +7.8% year on year to €1,045 million, with the adjusted EBITDA margin improving to 20.7% (from 20.2% in FY 2024), ahead of guidance. Adjusted net profit reached €587 million (11.6% margin), while reported net profit was €594 million (11.8% margin). Free cash flow from operations totalled €664 million, with net debt/adjusted EBITDA at 0.7x.

By segment, Fragrance and Fashion (72% of FY revenue) grew +6.4% like-for-like to €3,646 million, supported by Carolina Herrera, Jean Paul Gaultier and double-digit growth in its Niche portfolio led by Byredo. Makeup rose +13.7% like-for-like to €845 million, driven by Charlotte Tilbury (including distribution gains via Amazon in the US and entry into Mexico), while Skincare grew +8.9% like-for-like to €551 million, led by Uriage and Charlotte Tilbury skincare. Puig also highlighted that Rabanne, Carolina Herrera and Jean Paul Gaultier hold three spots in the global top 10 fragrance brand rankings.

Regionally, growth was broad-based: EMEA delivered +5.5% like-for-like growth to €2,752 million; the Americas grew +7.7% like-for-like to €1,760 million (with FX headwinds); and Asia-Pacific increased +21.7% like-for-like to €531 million. Looking ahead, Puig updated its guidance framework, expects FY 2026 margins to remain stable amid a tougher cost environment, reiterated its leverage threshold (net debt/adjusted EBITDA not to exceed 2.0x), and said it intends to pay a dividend of €237 million (around 40% payout of reported net profit), subject to AGM approval. The company also brought forward its Capital Markets Day to April 14, 2026 in Madrid.

THE WHY? Puig’s results show it can sustain above-market growth while expanding margins, supported by strong fragrance leadership and accelerating Makeup and Skincare performance, alongside disciplined cash and balance sheet management that preserves flexibility for reinvestment and selective M&A.

Source: Puig

The ‘French Shoe’ Trend Will Transform Any Outfit This Spring

Admin
-
0
The ‘French Shoe’ Trend Will Transform Any Outfit This Spring

For spring 2026, this idea of style maturity is in full swing. When it comes to footwear, it’s all about the fine details. Look for a defined toe box that elongates the figure with precision and straps that frame the instep with intention. Light textures will bring dimension, while bold tones brighten up even the simplest of looks. Intense red, vibrant yellow, deep burgundy, luminous will make your shoes feel like an intentional choice, and not just a last-minute idea. This is the essence of true ‘good chic, good kind’ style: consideration before excess, proportion before impact. After generations working hard on crafting the perfect balance, the French have mastered this blend of elegance, comfort, character and style.

The following eight pairs perfectly encapsulate the fashion philosophy of the ‘French shoe’, making them your best style companions for spring 2026 – ready to be worn with jeans, skirts and trousers.

1. Red slingbacks with bow details

This fiery red slingback elongates the silhouette with a defined toe and a small heel that holds the step without fatigue. The lace-like detailing adds delicate structure, while the front bow introduces a playful gesture that adds character without losing on simplicity. It pairs perfectly with blue straight jeans, pencil skirts in neutral tones or loose beige trousers. It doesn’t take much for this shoe to get the job done.

M&S Patent Bow Cut Out Kitten Heel Pointed Slingback Shoes

2. Yellow pumps with curved buckles

The yellow pump transforms any grey day into a bright statement. Its low heel creates stability, while the curve detail on the front ads a sculptural vibe that stands out even under a classic cut. It works great with light denim, white miniskirts or black tailored pants. All it requires is an structured shirt for the ensemble to take on a vibrant, stylish energy.

Image may contain: Clothing, Footwear, Shoe, High Heel, and Sandal

Prada 35mm Brushed-leather Pumps in Yello

3. Burgundy mesh flats

The black mesh Mary Jane breathes absolute lightness. The texture allows the foot to feel cool, while the strap supports the silhouette with a sleek feel. Its reflective leather adds a sophisticated nod, which will work perfect with pleated midi skirts, washed baggy jeans or cropped trousers. Its ability to create contrasts between transparency and structure makes it a perfect shoe for the transitional season.

Image may contain: Clothing, Footwear, Sandal, Accessories, Strap, Shoe, Blade, Dagger, Knife, and Weapon

Alaïa Ballet Flats in Burgundy Fishnet

4. Chocolate mesh slingbacks

The chocolate slingback plays with transparency in a deep tone that elevates any outfit. Its heel adds comfort, as the heel strap defines a clean shape that extends the line of the foot. Perfect with satin skirts, dark blue jeans or camel trousers. A relaxed blazer is enough to complete the look that breathes Parisian modernity.

Image may contain: Clothing, Footwear, Sandal, Shoe, and High Heel

Asos Design Skip Slingback Kitten Heel shoes in Chocolate Mesh

5. Green velvet loafers with fringe details

This green velvet loafer introduces a soft texture that discreetly catches the light. The fringe detail adds some pizzazz, while the classic shape allows for both weekday and weekend wear. It goes perfectly with grey denim, printed skirts or straight trousers in shades of camel. Add a cotton shirt and you have yourself a relaxed ensemble with a strong personality.

Image may contain: Suede, Clothing, Footwear, and Shoe

Manolo Blahnik Fringed-detail Loafers

6. Minimalist chocolate loafers

The loafer stands out for its formal purity: elongated toe, impeccable leather and a precise structure that gives firmness to every step. The silhouette works with absolutely everything: wool trousers, capri jeans, midi skirts, light dresses. This is the kind of shoe that instantly becomes part of your daily uniform.

Image may contain: Suede, Clothing, Footwear, and Shoe

Dear Frances Gio Loafer in Espresso

7. Bordeaux heels with ankle straps

The burgundy builds an irresistible mix: glossy upper, elongated toe and a geometric heel that shows confidence. The ankle strap outlines a delicate shape that looks amazing at any angle and on any ankle. Works best with shift dresses, turn-up jeans or structured trousers. It’s the optimal choice for evening occasions where you want to stand out without overdoing it.

Image may contain: Clothing, Footwear, Shoe, High Heel, and Sandal

8. White pumps with micro bows

A white pump with a bow brings unprecented levels of dainty elegance that brightens up any outfit. The rounded toe has a playful feeling, while the block heel brings continuous stability. Its light tone will be a perfect match for indigo denim, dove grey pencil skirts or khaki trouser. Its versatility allows it to be worn during long days that will take you rom impromptu meetings to wild nights out, all with a sense of ease in your step.

Image may contain: Clothing, Footwear, High Heel, and Shoe

Miu Miu Élan Bow-embellished Pumps

What sets the ‘French shoe’ apart is not a specific shape or a singular colour. Instead, it’s the ability to pull an outfit together without taking all the attention. Each of these eight pairs proves that true style depends on thoughtful proportion, clear design and strong intention. When the footwear is figured out, the rest of the outfit flows effortlessly. And that’s the lesson that Parisian fashion repeats season after season, year after year: style starts at the tippy toes, but is felt trough the whole body.

A version of this article originally appeared in Glamour México.

14 Pastel Nail Ideas You’ll Want to Wear Year Round

Admin
-
0
14 Pastel Nail Ideas You’ll Want to Wear Year Round

No matter the time of year, pastel nail ideas provide inspo well beyond spring and summer. With manicure trends like soap nails and milk bath nails taking over the past year—plus colours like lavender milk and butter yellow reigning supreme in recent months with stars like Selena Gomez and Hailey Bieber—wearing pastel nails isn’t just chic, it’s a celeb-approved trend.

Pastel nails are a great way to ease into colour. If you aren’t into brighter shades, trying a more muted, milky, pastel version lets you experiment without committing to a neon, highlighter-like manicure.

Whether you want to play around with a pastel floral nail design or an ombré pastel manicure, there are plenty of ways to wear the trend. And the best part? These designs and colours can be worn on short or long nails. Talk about versatile.

What are popular pastel nail colours?

Milky shades like lavender or lilac, baby pink, butter yellow, mint green, baby blue, and peachy coral are popular for Spring 2026 but choose a colour that you love and that complements your skin tone nicely. If you have a cooler skin tone, consider wearing cooler pastel shades like pink and lilac. Warmer skin tones can lean into peach or apricot shades.

How to achieve pastel gradient nails

Good news: Creating ombré or gradient nails can be done either professionally or at home. If you’re heading to the salon, your nail artist will likely create the ombré design using an airbrush machine, gently spraying and blending the darker colour atop the lighter one. DIY fans, a beginner-friendly way to create this look is by painting the gradient of colours onto a nail sponge, then turning it over and gently stamping it onto your nail. No matter what, make sure to finish with a glossy or matte topcoat to keep the mani looking sharp longer.

How to mix pastel nail polish colours

If you have a bright nail polish colour that you want to turn into a pastel at home, simply paint some of the colour onto a metal mixing palette or silicone mat, add some white polish to that, and mix it together for a more muted, milkier shade.

Pastel nail inspiration

Ahead, our 14 favourite pastel nail ideas to give you some major inspo for your next nail appointment:

Pastel tips

A modern twist on the classic French manicure, pastel tips add just a touch of colour on the tips of each nail, keeping things simple and versatile.

What 5 Brain Health Experts Eat to Preserve Their Cognitive Health

Admin
-
0
What 5 Brain Health Experts Eat to Preserve Their Cognitive Health

You don’t need a whole meal to support your brain health. An evening treat does the job too! This DIY dark chocolate bark is made up of ingredients that can aid your cognitive functioning and prevent decline, says Amylee Amos, RDN, PhD, founder of the Amos Institute.

Dark chocolate contains flavonols, an anti-inflammatory that can protect cells from damage and may also improve cerebral blood flow, Dr. Amos explains. The pomegranate seeds are also a nutritional powerhouse with brain benefits, she adds. They contain phytonutrients, which may reduce inflammation and oxidative stress. As for the walnuts, well, you know how much your brain loves the healthy fats in those suckers by now.

If you’re short on time, make a snack mix by combining dark chocolate chips, pomegranate seeds, and chopped walnuts in a bowl or to-go baggie. (Neuroscientist Anna Orr, PhD, assistant professor at Weill Cornell Graduate School of Medicine, likes munching on unsalted pistachios, almonds, and dark chocolate as a midday snack.)

Otherwise, you can melt those choco chips in the microwave, spread them across a lined baking sheet, and sprinkle pomegranate seeds and chopped walnuts on top. Let the bark chill in the fridge, and break it into chunks once fully cooled. Sounds like a cute little Sunday project, no?

Blueberry smoothie

When you’re in a pinch, smoothies can help you get lots of nutrients without much work, says Cording. To whip up some quality fuel sans quality time, she blends frozen wild blueberries, frozen cauliflower, half an avocado, chia seeds, cacao powder, spinach, and either protein powder or Greek yogurt. This super smoothie contains antioxidants, fiber, omega-3 healthy fats, and vitamins that support energy, focus, and long-term cognitive health, she adds.

Salmon salad

If you don’t have a freezer full of salmon, maybe it’s time to stock up. This superstar fish is full of omega-3 fatty acids, which support the structure and function of brain cells and enhance the communication between neurons, explains neurologist Shae Datta, MD, clinical assistant professor in the department of neurology at NYU Grossman Long Island School of Medicine.

Germany’s Dr. Wolff is turning to Brazil as a strategic driver of growth

Admin
-
0
Germany’s Dr. Wolff is turning to Brazil as a strategic driver of growth

The German, family-owned Dr. Wolff Group, a specialist in hygiene, skin care, hair care, and oral care, has now entered the Brazilian market. Backed by 120 years of history and operations in roughly 70 countries, the company has high expectations for its expansion there.

“Even though we are over a century old, we only began our international expansion about 25 years ago. As a German company, our strategic priority was to consolidate our presence in Europe and then expand into the Far East,” explains Tomas Schulz, Vice President of Sales for South America.

Nevertheless, Brazil had been on the group’s radar for some time, but tax and regulatory hurdles delayed its entry into the country. “Launching a product in Brazil involves a level of complexity rarely seen in other markets. Now that we are officially present, the time has come to expand our footprint in the country.”

First ever investment in Latin America

Brazil marks the group’s first fully owned subsidiary in Latin America. “It is the region’s most compelling market and will act as a launchpad for our broader expansion. While we are already present in some Latin American countries, our operations there have so far been limited to distributor partnerships,” the executive says.

For its debut in the Brazilian market, Dr. Wolff has chosen to prioritize two of its brands: Alpecinspecializing in men’s hair care and hair loss solutions; and Bioniqa brand focused on oral hygiene and known for its products containing 20% biomimetic hydroxyapatite (HAP), the mineral that makes up 97% of natural tooth enamel.

“Alpecin typically serves as our spearhead in new markets, led by its flagship caffeine-based shampoo, the first of its kind globally. In Brazil, where oral hygiene is a priority for consumers, we also decided to launch Bioniq, a brand we believe has significant potential. Our goal is to leverage the size of this segment with a distinctive alternative to current offerings,” adds Tomas Schulz.

The group’s portfolio includes seven proprietary brandsamong them Plant 39which offers hair care products tailored to women over 40; Alcinaspanning skin care, hair care, and makeup; and Vagisanfocused on feminine health. “Our goal is to introduce all of these brands to the Brazilian market,” says Harumi Iamamoto, Country Manager of Dr. Wolff in Brazil.

A comprehensive three-year launch plan

“New products will be launched before the end of 2026. The next brand to arrive on the Brazilian market will likely be Plantur, a feminine version of Alpecin, which has strong potential. Our goal is to roll out our entire product portfolio in Brazil within approximately three years,” reveals Ms. Iamamoto.

For its expansion into Brazil, the German group has signed an exclusive agreement with the Raia and Drogasil pharmacy chains, subsidiaries of RD Saúdethe country’s leading pharmaceutical distribution group, which boasts over 3,400 physical points of sale and is also a major online retailer. “This is a business model we’ve already implemented in other countries. We chose the market leader to benefit from nationwide distribution and gain consumer trust. RD Saúde is a perfect fit for our brands, and this partnership could be long-term,” emphasizes Tomas Schulz.

According to him, Dr. Wolff has very high ambitions for its new venture in Brazil. “While Germany will remain our primary market, Brazil should one day become our second largest in the world. I am convinced we have the potential.“

8 Best Shampoos and Conditioners for Color-Treated Hair to Stay Vibrant and Fresh

Admin
-
0
8 Best Shampoos and Conditioners for Color-Treated Hair to Stay Vibrant and Fresh

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes hair color to fade?

Extra care is a must for your dye job since there are a number of contributing factors when it comes to your color fading. Watch out for exposure to hard water, the overuse of heat-styling tools (and hot shower temperatures), and even UV rays. “The sun bleaches color out of everything, including your hair,” St. Louis-based colorist Caitlin Ford tells Allure. “If you’re going outside for extended periods of time, protect your scalp and hair with a hat,” she adds. We also like to spritz on a little hair sunscreen to make sure we’ve covered all of our bases.

What are sulfates, and are they bad for color-treated hair?

Sulfates are cleansers that trap oil-based dirt so it can be rinsed away from skin or hair with water. They also happen to be the additives behind the lather and bubbles in shampoos, toothpastes, and soaps. Overall, the jury is still kind of out on whether they’re harmful or not, but this group of ingredients is definitely known for its color-stripping effects.

While sulfates are usually given the side-eye—for example, they’re a no-go, according to our very own Clean Best of Beauty seal—they aren’t necessarily as bad for preserving your hair pigment as they’re made out to be. Cosmetic chemist Randy Schueller previously told Allure that water is as damaging as any cleanser. “When your hair gets wet, it swells, the hair shaft opens, and some color leaches out,” says Schueller, who tested sulfates against other surfactants and didn’t see any notable differences in terms of fading color. (This is why many experts suggest washing your hair less often and spritzing dry shampoo to buy you extra time in between.)

However, the case against sulfates is still pretty valid — especially if you want to err on the side of caution. Not only are they irritating to the skin, but they are also capable of “stripping the [scalp] of its natural oils” a little too well, Aanand Geria, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Rutherford, NJ, previously explained to Allure. In other words: Sulfates are a pretty slippery slope, leading to dryness and flaking.

How is shampoo for colored hair different than “regular” shampoos?

Like many experts, Ferrara is a fan of brands with sulfate-free offerings, as she says they will “extend the shelf life of your hair color and prevent fading.” Los Angeles-based colorist and Redken brand ambassador Matt Rez previously shared that using sulfate-free shampoo will keep hair as hydrated as possible. Adding to the chorus is cosmetic chemist Ron Robinson, who told Allure that sulfates can dry hair out, which can be especially damaging after coloring. They’ll also make your eyes burn if they accidentally slip in, which is a universally unpleasant experience.

All to say: Your best bet, when it comes to preserving your color, is to switch your regular shampoo with one that’s specially formulated for color-treated hair. (Please, no clarifying shampoos.)

Which shampoo is right for my hair color?

We’ll have to dabble in the color wheel theory to answer this question. Basically, complementary colors—or colors that are on opposite sides of the color wheel—neutralize each other. Therefore, you can use tinted shampoos, hair masks, and conditioners to balance brassy tones and dullness. “To counteract yellow hues, you need to use something that has violet in it; to counteract orange tones, you’ll need to use blue hues,” St. Louis, Missouri-based colorist Kristina Cheeseman previously told Allure. For minimizing brassy tones, a purple shampoo for blondes and a blue shampoo for brunettes are always your best bets.

Meet the experts

  • Abby Haliti, a New York City-based hair colorist
  • Ian McCabe, a Washington, D.C.-based colorist and owner of Navy Hair Studio
  • Nikki Ferrara, a New York City-based hair colorist
  • Danita Hampton, a North Carolina-based hairstylist and Covet & Mane Lead Educator
  • Caitlin Ford, a St. Louis-based hair colorist
  • Randy Schueller, a cosmetic chemist
  • Aanand Geria, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Rutherford, NJ
  • Matt Rez, a Los Angeles-based colorist and Redken brand ambassador
  • Ron Robinson, a cosmetic chemist
  • Kristina Cheeseman, a St. Louis, Missouri-based hair colorist

How we test and review products

We always enlist a range of testers for our makeup vertical, but hair-care products and tools are another story. While there are certain products that can be used across different hair textures, lengths, curl patterns, thicknesses, colors (natural and unnatural), and needs, hair products are often created with specific consumers in mind. Many are created in order to address a concern (dandruff, breakage, brittleness) or to work most effectively for a specific hair type (4C curls, wavy hair, gray hair). You wouldn’t want to pick up a purple shampoo that’s only been reviewed by someone with, say, auburn hair, or a diffuser that’s never been tested by anyone with curls—right?

For our review of shampoos for colored hair, we enlisted the help of multiple editors, writers, contributors, and hair colorists—many of whom have or have had color-treated hair. Testers considered performance across four primary categories: efficacy, texture and experience, fragrance, and packaging. For more on what’s involved in our reporting, check out our complete reviews process and methodology page.

Our staff and testers

A beauty product is a personal purchase. You might be searching for a face cream to address persistent dryness or a new nail product to add to your Sunday self-care routine; you may simply be browsing around for the latest launches to hit the hair market. No matter what you seek or your individual needs and concerns, Allure wants to ensure that you love anything we recommend in our stories. We believe that having a diverse team of writers and editors—in addition to the wide range of outside testers and industry experts we regularly call upon—is essential to reaching that goal.

After all, can we really say a skin-care product is the “best” for people over 50 if the only testers we’ve solicited opinions from folks who have yet to hit 30? Can we honestly deem a high-end diffuser worthy of your hard-earned cash if it’s never been tested on curls? We’re proud that our staff spans a wide range of ages, skin tones, hair textures, genders, and backgrounds, which means that we are able to fairly assess any beauty product that comes into the beauty closet.

Why Calm Skin Starts With a Calm Nervous System – 100% PURE

Admin
-
0
Why Calm Skin Starts With a Calm Nervous System – 100% PURE

Your skin is not just a surface. It’s a storyteller.

It tells the truth about late nights and loud weeks. About the email you reread ten times. About the “I’m fine” you didn’t mean. About the kind of stress that doesn’t feel dramatic, just constant—like a browser with forty tabs open and one of them playing music you can’t find.

And when life is too sharp for too long, your skin often becomes the messenger: redness that flares without warning, breakouts that arrive like tiny protests, sensitivity that makes even “gentle” products feel like a dare.

That’s not vanity. That’s biology.

Because calm isn’t a luxury add-on to skincare—it’s often a prerequisite for repair. If you’re trying to heal your skin while your nervous system is running on emergency settings, you’re asking your body to rebuild while it still thinks it’s under threat.

This is where a calming skincare routine becomes more than skincare. It becomes regulation: a nightly signal to your system that it can stand down.

And when your system stands down, your skin can finally exhale.

(If you’re here for stress inflammation skin, nervous system and skinand what “calm” actually looks like in practice—let’s get into it.)

The Nervous System–Skin Connection

We tend to treat skin like it’s separate: a face issue, a product issue, a “maybe I need a new serum” issue.

But skin is an organ with a direct line to your internal state. It’s highly innervated, immunologically active, and responsive to hormonal shifts—meaning it reacts not only to what you put on it, but also to what you live through.

Stress hormones and inflammation

When you’re stressed, your body releases stress hormones (hello, cortisol and adrenaline) designed to keep you alert and ready. That’s useful if you’re being chased by something. It’s less useful when your “threat” is deadlines, sleep deprivation, and emotional overload that never resolves.

Chronic stress can tilt the body toward inflammation. And inflammation is a key driver behind many skin issues: flare-ups, redness, sensitivity, breakouts, and that overall “my skin is angry and I don’t know why” feeling.

Why sensitive skin often mirrors emotional overload

Sensitive skin isn’t always “just sensitive.” Sometimes it’s skin that’s been living in a body that’s overstimulated for too long.

When your nervous system is stuck in a heightened state, your threshold lowers—everything feels more intense. That applies to emotions, noise, light… and yes, skincare products.

So you’re not imagining it: the same formula that felt fine last month can suddenly sting this month. Your skin’s tolerance changes when your internal stress load changes.

How Chronic Stress Shows Up on Skin

Stress isn’t always visible in your calendar. But it can be visible in your face.

Redness, irritation, breakouts

Under chronic stress, your skin may:

  • flush or redden more easily
  • feel tight or reactive
  • break out in places it normally doesn’t
  • become more prone to itching, stinging, or burning sensations

It’s not that your skin is “being difficult.” It’s that your body is prioritizing survival signals over beauty signals. Repair becomes secondary when your system is braced.

Slower healing and increased reactivity

One of the most frustrating parts of stress-related skin issues is the lag. You can start doing “everything right” and still feel stuck.

That’s because stress can slow recovery. Skin that’s inflamed tends to heal more slowly and react more quickly. The smallest disruption—weather change, a new product, a late night—can feel like it tips everything over.

Which is why the solution is rarely a more aggressive routine. It’s often a calmer one.

Why Rituals Help Regulate Both Skin and Mind

A routine is what you do. A ritual is what it means.

When you turn your nighttime skincare into a ritual—simple, repetitive, sensory—you’re not just caring for your skin. You’re teaching your nervous system a new pattern: downshift, soften, repair.

Repetition signals safety

Your nervous system loves predictable cues. Repetition is one of the fastest ways to tell the body: we are not in danger.

When you do the same steps in the same order each night, you’re creating a reliable “end-of-day” signal. Over time, your body learns to associate that sequence with rest.

And rest is where repair lives.

Scent, touch, and routine as calming cues

Ritual works because it’s sensory:

  • Scent can trigger relaxation associations quickly (lavender is a classic bedtime cue for many people).
  • Touch—especially slow, gentle touch—can be grounding.
  • Warmth helps the body shift out of vigilance and into comfort.

You’re not just applying products. You’re speaking your body’s language.

A Nervous-System-Soothing Evening Ritual

This is a trend-free, nervous-system-friendly evening ritual designed to support both calm skin and a calmer mind. Keep it simple. Keep it consistent. Let it become familiar.

1) Cleanse: Gentle reset to signal transition

Rose Water Gentle Cleanser
Cleansing marks the shift: the day is over. You’re not scrubbing yourself into submission—you’re rinsing away the external world.

Ritual cue: As you cleanse, take one slow breath in through your nose, out through your mouth. Do it twice. Make it your “closing ceremony.”

2) Tone: Calm inflammation and rebalance

Lavender Niacinamide Pore Minimizer Toner
This step can feel like cooling down after the day—supporting balance, reducing that “hot” reactive feeling, and setting your skin up for comfort.

Ritual cue: Press it into your skin with your palms instead of swiping. Let your hands linger for a second. Slow touch helps your body believe it can slow down too.

3) Moisturize: Restore comfort and hydration

Rose Water Hydrating Milk
Moisturizing is a form of reassurance. Hydration and barrier support aren’t flashy, but they’re the foundation of calmer skin.

Ritual cue: Apply in upward, gentle motions. Relax your jaw as you do it—yes, really. The face holds stress like a secret.

4) Body Ritual: Relax the nervous system through scent and warmth

French Lavender Shower Gel
A warm shower isn’t just hygiene—it’s nervous-system medicine in everyday form. Lavender adds a sensory cue that tells your brain it’s safe to power down.

Ritual cue: Let the scent be your anchor. Each night, mentally pair it with one phrase: “I’m allowed to rest.” (It sounds small. It lands big.)

Conclusion: Calm Skin Begins With Calm Habits

If your skin has been sensitive, reactive, or stuck in a cycle of irritation, the answer might not be another “stronger” product.

It might be a softer life—starting with a softer night.

Calm skin doesn’t come from pressure. It comes from conditions: consistency, gentleness, and a nervous system that’s no longer running drills.

Your rituals don’t have to be elaborate. They have to be repeatable. Because every night you choose calm, your skin gets one more chance to repair in peace.

FAQ

Can stress really affect skin inflammation?

Yes. Stress can influence inflammation in the body, and skin is especially responsive to inflammatory signals. That’s why flare-ups, redness, breakouts, and sensitivity often spike during high-stress periods—and why calming practices can support skin recovery alongside a gentle routine.

How long does it take for calm routines to help skin?

Some people notice changes quickly—sleep improves, reactivity calms, the skin feels less “on edge.” Visible skin changes can take longer because they rely on repair and renewal cycles. The key is consistency: calm routines work best when they become a steady signal, not an occasional rescue mission.

Is a calming routine enough for sensitive skin?

A calming routine is a powerful foundation, especially if your sensitivity is tied to barrier disruption and stress. But if you have persistent symptoms—burning, severe redness, rashes, or worsening flare-ups—it’s worth consulting a dermatologist to rule out conditions like eczema, rosacea, or allergic reactions. Think of calm routines as essential support, and professional guidance as a smart next step when needed.

PSA: Hemorrhoid Cream Is For Hemorrhoids

Admin
-
0
PSA: Hemorrhoid Cream Is For Hemorrhoids

Don’t attack me, but I didn’t know what hemorrhoids were until last year, during my third trimester of pregnancy. I quickly became well acquainted with the condition—swollen veins in the anus and lower rectum—thanks to the pressure from my growing uterus and baby. By two months postpartum, I was scraping the bottom of my last tub of hemorrhoid cream, certain I’d never have to see (or say) the word again. I was wrong.

Lately, my TikTok For You page has been flooded with women slathering hemorrhoid cream everywhere except where it was intended—most notably under their eyes and across fine lines—claiming it can tighten skin and smooth wrinkles. It’s not the first time people have come on the app talking about butt paste, either. Back in 2022, we’d reported people using the stuff to tackle under-eye puffiness. While there is some logic behind those claims, dermatologists say the reality is far more complicated.

The trend is migrating south, from the under-eye area to the neck. One comment on a TikTok video of a woman using a generic brand hemorrhoid cream reads, “I was a derm nurse, and my 83-year-old dermatologist always recommended this to his patients when asked if there are non-surgical options for turkey neck.” “I’m just gonna use it as an overall body lotion at this point,” another user writes.

So what exactly is giving people the impression that this is some sort of miracle cream? “Many [hemorrhoid creams] contain vasoconstrictors like phenylephrine, which temporarily shrink blood vessels,” says Mona Gohara, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City. “That fleeting tightening effect can look like improvement on the skin.”

In other words, the smoothing effect is real—but it’s short-lived. “It’s a cosmetic sleight of hand,” she adds. “There’s no true skin change.”

While it may be tempting to treat hemorrhoid cream as a multitasking fix, modern dermatologists advise against it. “The risks outweigh the benefits,” says Dr. Gohara. “The formulas in hemorrhoid creams can be irritating, disrupt the skin barrier, and over time may even thin the skin, especially if they contain topical steroids, which some hemorrhoid products do.”

That last point is especially important. According to Dr. Gohara, skin laxity and sagging are driven by collagen loss, elastin breakdown, sun damage, muscle banding, and overall structural changes in the skin—not just surface-level swelling. Temporarily constricting blood vessels won’t address any of that. In fact, repeatedly irritating delicate areas like the neck could potentially worsen crepey texture over time.

Ellen Marmur, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City, also warns that, in addition to phenylephrine, some hemorrhoid creams may contain hydrocortisone—an ingredient that should absolutely not go on your face. “Hydrocortisone can be absorbed through the skin into the bloodstream to cause systemic side effects in other parts of your body,” De Anne Harris Collier, MD, a Florida-based board-certified dermatologist, previously told Allure.”Because hydrocortisone is a steroid, usage over time can affect your adrenal glands, which are responsible for your body’s response to stress.” Dr. Collier adds.

There are safer, more effective ways to address your skin concerns. For neck tightening and sagging, try neck firming creams with retinol; for puffy undereyes, try peptide eye creams; for fine lines and wrinkles, try creams with hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and retinol.

The promise of temporary tightening may be tempting, but for real results—and healthier skin—dermatologist-backed options are the smarter investment. So, leave the hemorrhoid cream behind.

Read more skin care stories:

Women Are The Backbone Of London Fashion Week – These 9 Creatives Prove Why

Admin
-
0
Women Are The Backbone Of London Fashion Week – These 9 Creatives Prove Why

Is there a physical activity that helps get you in a creative mood?

For the last ten years, I was one of my father’s primary carers, and that role was very physical, leaving little space for anything else. Much of my creativity came from caring for him and sitting together, talking about old Afghanistan and the places he travelled. Now I have the time, I’m still figuring out what movement looks like for me — but inspiration continues to come through memory, observation, and emotion.

Please summarise the perfect makeup look for AW26 in 3 words.

Big statement, colourful, individual. These three words are shaping the show I’m designing the makeup for this February.

What’s the first thing you do once a show you worked on is over?

I always congratulate the designer and thank them for trusting me with their vision and letting me into their space. But most importantly, I thank my team — individually. I believe in collective success… anything I achieve is because of the people beside me.

Who would you want to have in your makeup chair?

⁠It would be Yasmeen Ghauri. She’s one of the most beautiful women to ever walk a runway, and she truly owned that era. At a time when representation was rare, she was one of the only South Asian models on the runway, and seeing someone from your own community reflected in fashion like that is incredibly powerful. Her paternal roots in Afghanistan add another layer of meaning — it feels like representation coming full circle.

Any beauty or fashion rituals before getting backstage?

Good skin prep is everything — for me and my clients. I swear by the 111SKIN Black Diamond Mask, Huda Beauty powder for longevity, and Kryolan fixing spray, which has been in my kit since day one. My signature look is a small winged liner with dots in the waterline, and fashion-wise it’s always all black, comfy, and practical.

Courtesy of Clara Chu

Image may contain Accessories Bag Handbag and Purse

Courtesy of Clara Chu

1...106107108...290Page 107 of 290