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Best Face Mask Set: What to Use for Your Skin Goals

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Best Face Mask Set: What to Use for Your Skin Goals

A face mask set sounds like a cute add-on until you realize it’s one of the easiest ways to get consistent results without overthinking your routine. One mask can help, sure. But most skin issues are not one-issue problems. You can be dry and congested at the same time. You can be dull and sensitive. You can be breaking out and still dehydrated.

That’s why a face mask set can work better than buying one random mask and hoping for the best. The right set gives you options and lets you treat your skin based on what it needs that week, not what it “usually” is.

1. What makes a face mask set worth it?

Not every face mask set is created equal. The ones that actually deliver tend to have:

  • Different masks for different goals (not three versions of the same thing)
  • A clear use schedule so you are not guessing how often to apply each mask
  • Balanced formulas that help skin improve without constant irritation
  • Results you can feel like smoother texture, clearer pores, or better hydration

If a face mask set is just “hydrating, hydrating, hydrating,” it’s not really a set. It’s repetition.

2. The best face mask set combos for real results

Here are the combinations that tend to work best because they cover the most common skin situations.

A) The Glow + Smooth Set

This is the face mask set you want if your skin looks tired, makeup is sitting weird, or you want smoother texture fast.

  • Exfoliating mask (to refine texture and brightness)
  • Hydrating mask (to plump and soften the look of lines)

Best for: dullness, rough texture, pre-event glow, dry patches.

B) The Clear Pores + Calm Set

This is the face mask set that works when you are congested but your skin is also easily irritated. You get clarity without over-drying.

  • Purifying/clay mask (to pull out buildup and oil)
  • Soothing mask (to reduce redness and calm inflammation)

Best for: blackheads, breakouts, bumps, stressed or reactive acne-prone skin.

C) The Firm + Hydrate Set

This is the face mask set you want when your skin feels less “tight” than it used to and you want that plumper, firmer look.

  • Firming/anti-aging mask (to support a lifted look)
  • Hydrating mask (to improve bounce and soften fine lines)

Best for: early lines, dehydration, dullness, tired-looking skin.

D) The “Everything” Set for combination skin

If your skin changes week to week, this is the most practical face mask set. You rotate based on what is showing up.

  • Exfoliating mask once a week
  • Purifying mask once a week (or just on the T-zone)
  • Hydrating mask one to two times a week

Best for: combination skin, seasonal changes, unpredictable breakouts and dryness.

3. How to use a face mask set without overdoing it

The biggest mistake with a face mask set is using all the masks back-to-back because you think “more care” means “better results.” That’s how you end up irritated.

Use this schedule as a safe starting point:

  • 2 masks per week if you are sensitive or new to masks
  • 3 masks per week if your skin is resilient and you want faster results

A simple weekly example:

  • Monday: hydrating mask
  • Thursday: purifying or exfoliating mask
  • Saturday: hydrating or firming mask

Pro tip: If you use an exfoliating mask, follow it with a hydrating mask later in the week. That combo is what makes skin look smooth without getting stripped.

4. Should you “multi-mask” with a face mask set?

Yes, if you have combination skin. Multi-masking means using different masks on different areas at the same time.

Example:

  • T-zone: purifying mask for oil and blackheads
  • cheeks: hydrating mask to prevent tightness

This is one of the best ways to get real results from a face mask set because you stop treating your entire face like it has one problem.

5. How to make face mask results last longer

A face mask set works best when you support it with simple habits:

  • Mask on clean skin so ingredients can actually absorb.
  • Do not scrub when rinsingespecially after exfoliating masks.
  • Moisturize after to lock in hydration and protect the barrier.
  • Wear sunscreen the next morning if you exfoliate, because fresh skin is more UV-sensitive.
How to make face mask results last longer

Final thoughts

The right face mask set is one of the easiest ways to get consistent, visible results at home. Choose a set that covers more than one goal, rotate masks based on what your skin needs that week, and keep your schedule realistic. That is how you go from “masking sometimes” to skin that looks smoother, clearer, and more even all month.

How to Make Dating Fun Again, According to Relationship Experts

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How to Make Dating Fun Again, According to Relationship Experts

Between dating app horror stories, talking stages that go nowhere, and meetups that feel more like job interviews, it’s easy to burn out and lose faith in the whole process. Somewhere along the way, under pressure to find the One, many of us forget that dating is supposed to be exciting (or at the very least not draining). So how do you bring back that playfulness?

Anwar White, a seasoned relationship coach and founder of Get Your Guy Coaching, hears this a lot. “Some of the complaints are that no one’s really serious out there,” White tells SELF. But what people often forget is that just as much as the journey revolves around the future of your love life, it’s also supposed to be enjoyable in the present. Yet “so many of us become hyperfocused on the results that make the experience lose its luster, in a way,” White says.

Below, White and other relationship experts share a few strategies for reclaiming the joy of dating—whether you’re looking for a casual fling, a long-term partner, or even just a fun night out that leaves you feeling good afterward.

1. Throw out the checklist.

Most people already have a mental inventory of must-haves: ambition, emotional availability, strong communication skills—along with a few superficial ones like a certain height, job title, or hair color. While standards matter, rigid checklists are one of the few things that can quickly turn dating from exploratory to transactional.

“The fun of dating is this ability to step into someone else’s world—to find it interesting and to want to know what that’s like,” Fanny Tristan, LCSW, a psychotherapist and founder of Restority Space in New York City, tells SELF. Maybe you meet a person whose career is completely different from your ex’s or whose personality challenges you in a complementary way. Usually what happens is the qualities that once felt so nonnegotiable end up fading when you’re having a good time, Tristan says.

2. Go in expecting to make a friend.

If you’re on the apps, you’re probably looking for romance—not a platonic connection. But White recommends treating each date as a chance to see whether you genuinely enjoy their company: “This reframe helps so many of my clients just exhale a bit and not take this so seriously,” making it easier to show up authentically and let meaningful conversations unfold naturally.

3. Let date nights double as something you already want to do.

If sitting through another obligatory drink or dinner makes you roll your eyes, switch up the plan. “Be intentional about where you go,” Tara Suwinyattichaiporn, PhD, certified sexologist and professor of human communication at California State University, Fullerton, tells SELF. In other words, choose an activity or location you’d want to check out even if you were alone—whether that’s walking through a farmers’ market, catching a new movie, or making a res at a trendy speakeasy you have yet to try. That way, even if the chemistry isn’t there, your time isn’t wasted.

4. Turn flirting into a challenge.

Finding your person doesn’t have to feel so serious or high-stakes. “Make a game out of getting to know people,” White suggests. The next time you and your friends are at the bar together, set a goal of getting at least two phone numbers, or see who can strike up a conversation first with the cute stranger sitting solo. According to White, this is a low-pressure way for introverts to build confidence and practice putting themselves out there.

5. Set a 10–30 minute timer on dating apps.

Burnout is almost inevitable when you’re spending hours on Hinge, endlessly swiping through profiles. That’s why Dr. Suwinyattichaiporn recommends capping your time altogether. The exact limit will look different for everyone—maybe it’s 10 minutes, maybe it’s 30. What matters is having a clear stopping point, which she says is one of the simplest ways to protect your energy and keep the process from feeling exhausting.

6. Use dating apps to practice banter.

Life is serious enough; dating doesn’t have to be. One of the easiest ways to bring lightness back into the process is through banter—playful, low-stakes teasing that creates momentum, tension, and chemistry. Yet according to White, a lot of people struggle with this, which is why the apps can be a low-risk place to practice.

Sunday Business: Travel Update – Global Cosmetics News

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Sunday Business: Travel Update – Global Cosmetics News

If recent months have reinforced one reality about beauty’s travel retail channel, it is that recovery is no longer theoretical—it is being actively rebuilt, selectively expanded and, in some cases, strategically pared back. As passenger flows normalise unevenly across regions, travel retail is emerging as a more disciplined, brand-led and partnership-driven ecosystem, shaped as much by profitability pressures as by renewed confidence in global mobility.

At the luxury end, boutiques remain the clearest signal of intent. Dior Beauty and Chanel both opened new fragrance and beauty boutiques at Zurich Airport in partnership with Avolta, underlining the continued importance of high-traffic European hubs as theatres for brand storytelling. These openings reflect a broader recalibration: fewer doors, but better ones—spaces designed to deliver immersion, premium service and strong conversion rather than sheer footprint. L’Oreal echoed this approach by opening its first travel retail beauty boutique in Africa at Abuja Airport, marking a strategic entry point into a fast-growing but still underdeveloped travel retail market, where first-mover advantage and local relevance matter as much as scale.

The Middle East continues to outperform, both as a retail environment and as a barometer of global travel health. Charlotte Tilbury’s debut at Dubai Duty Free signalled the enduring pull of hero-led, social-first brands in high-spend transit locations, while Dubai Duty Free itself posted a record November, driven by strong gains in fragrance sales. The performance reinforces fragrance’s role as the engine of travel retail growth—portable, giftable and less price-sensitive—at a time when discretionary spend remains under scrutiny elsewhere.

Asia, meanwhile, is moving into a more nuanced phase of recovery. Lotte Duty Free’s decision to reopen trade with Chinese resellers points to a pragmatic reassessment of daigou dynamics as K-beauty sales rebound. Rather than a full return to pre-pandemic volumes, the focus appears to be on controlled engagement and margin protection. At the same time, the Korea Tourism Organization’s partnership with Amorepacific to merge K-beauty and travel in a global campaign highlights how national tourism bodies and beauty groups are increasingly aligned, using cultural capital and soft power to stimulate demand across borders.

Yet growth is not uniform—and neither is confidence. Shilla Hotel’s decision to exit Incheon Duty Free underscores the structural pressures still facing the channel. Rising operating costs, shifting concession economics and more cautious consumer behaviour are forcing operators to reassess long-term viability, even in historically strong locations. The move serves as a reminder that travel retail’s recovery is selective, not universal, and that scale alone is no longer a guarantee of resilience.

Leadership changes further reflect this moment of transition. Puig’s appointment of Vincent Baland to lead European travel retail signals a renewed focus on execution, regional nuance and brand-building at a time when fragrance-led portfolios are outperforming. As competition intensifies for prime airport real estate, experience in navigating complex retail partnerships and evolving shopper expectations is becoming as critical as brand equity itself.

Taken together, the latest developments point to a travel retail sector that is maturing after disruption. Expansion is targeted, partnerships are strategic and exits are increasingly decisive. Beauty brands are treating travel retail less as a volume play and more as a premium showcase—one that demands investment, clarity of purpose and operational discipline. As global travel continues to rebalance, the channel’s future will be defined not by how fast it grows, but by how intelligently it evolves.

Essential Products for Stronger, Healthier Strands – Iles Formula

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Essential Products for Stronger, Healthier Strands – Iles Formula

Beautiful, resilient hair starts with the right foundation, and when it comes to luxury high performant hair care, few brands deliver transformation like Iles Formula. Loved by celebrities, stylists, and beauty lovers around the world, Iles Formula products are formulated to strengthen, repair, and smooth hair from the very first use.

If you are treating yourself to a little indulgence, this guide highlights the essential Iles Formula must-haves for achieving stronger, healthier strands all year long.

Why Strong, Healthy Strands Start with Premium Care

Healthy hair isn’t about trends, it’s about nourishment, protection, and high-performance formulas that actually work. Iles Formula stands apart for its expertly crafted blends of reparative botanicals, strengthening proteins, and science-driven ingredients. Iles Formula products are formulated without sulphates or parabens, instead using raw, virgin, sustainably sourced ingredients, combined with science at the highest level to repair hair from the inside out. The result is unmatched hair care, suitable for all hair types and all ages.

With a commitment to luxury results and clean, cruelty-free formulations, Iles Formula is the perfect choice for anyone seeking stronger, shinier, silkier hair.

The Essential Iles Formula Products for Transformative Results

1. Iles Formula Signature Shampoo

A gentle yet effective cleanser that strengthens while it purifies. The Shampoo immediately detangles the hair, evens out porosity and adds root volume.

Why it’s essential: It has clinical proof to stop hair breakage, adds instant manageability, and preps hair for optimal conditioning.

Why it makes a great gift: Universally loved, suitable for all hair types and provides a salon-quality experience at home.

2. Iles Formula Signature Conditioner

A cult favorite for a reason, the Iles Formula conditioner provides instant repair, detangling, and silky softness.

Why it’s essential: Smooths frizz, strengthens strands, and delivers a luscious, polished finish without weighing the hair down.

Why it makes a great gift: Anyone craving luxury softness will adore this transformative product.

3. Iles Formula Finishing Serum

The hero product for style protection and shine. This magic Finishing Serum formula has numerous benefits: protection, anti-frizz, repairing, and styling.

Why it’s essential: Shields hair from heat, humidity, UV exposure, and environmental damage.

Why it makes a great gift: Delivers the most sumptuous lustrous texture of your life while keeping hair protected,without weight

4. Iles Formula Hair Mask

A deeply restorative, luxurious mask treatment for those needing extra nourishment. Enhancing the hair’s natural luster and shine.

Why it’s essential: Strengthens from within, replenishes moisture and revives dull or damaged hair.

Why it makes a great gift: Perfect for self-care lovers or anyone rebuilding hair health.

5. Iles Formula Discovery + Travel Kits

Beautifully packaged mini versions of the Iles Formula essentials. Get all the benefits above in a handy travel size.

Why it makes a great gift: Great for travel, gifting, or introducing someone to the full routine.

How to Build the Perfect Iles Formula Routine

  1. Cleanse with the Iles Formula Shampoo: Apply  shampoo to very wet hair, adding more water while massaging, not more product. Water is the key to activating an indulgent lather. In the case of hair breakage, this lather should be brought all the way to the ends. Allow the mousse to sit on the mid length and ends for about 1 minute. This starts the repair process by softening brittle hair. Rinse thoroughly. This award winning shampoo when used alongside the award winning  Iles Formula Conditioner  has the clinical data proving , it stops hair breakage up to 89% from first use. For very damaged or broken hair, we advise a 3rd shampoo.

  2. Repair with the Iles Formula Conditioner: Apply the  Iles Formula Conditioner evenly an inch from roots to ends. Wet brush through for even distribution. The brush delivers the required amount of product to the roots. Repair is immediate and hair breakage will have stopped. Rinse.

  3. Protect with the Iles Formula Finishing Serum: The protector against heated tools + environmental assaults + humidity. Best blow dried into wet hair + used daily on dry hair. Apply evenly to mid length and ends before styling. When applied methodically to all sections, this Serum has the power to transform thin, fine textured hair to feel and look  thicker, and calms down thick, coarse hair.

  4. Deeply nourish with the Iles Formula Hair Mask: Add the Hair Mask into your routine weekly or bi-weekly for deep nourishment and long-term strength. Apply the mask generously to towel-dried hair after shampooing and before conditioning. Leave the mask on for 5 to 20 minutes. This mask will strengthen, nourish, and repair all hair types without weighing them down.

Iles Formula travel size shampoo, conditioner and finishing serum arranged on a silver silk pillowcase.

Why Iles Formula Makes the Perfect Gift for you or someone else.

Results-driven luxury: Visible transformation from the first wash
Suitable for every hair type: Straight, curly, thick, fine, color-treated—everyone benefits
Beautiful presentation: Chic packaging that feels premium and thoughtful
A self-care experience: Each product adds a touch of indulgence to everyday routines

When you give the gift of Iles Formula, you’re giving more than just hair care, you’re offering the experience they will never forget you for.

If you’re looking to spoil someone special,perhaps as a Valentines Day offering or elevate your own beauty ritual, these Iles Formula essentials are the perfect place to start. Our signature blend of performance, luxury, and clean ingredients makes every product a hair-transforming experience.

Gift yourself or give the gift of beautiful hair and discover why Iles Formula has become a global favorite for achieving unforgettable lustrous, sumptuous  strands.

Aryan Simhadri’s Signature Curls Are the Work of Coconut Oil and the Gods

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Aryan Simhadri’s Signature Curls Are the Work of Coconut Oil and the Gods

Byrdie Boy

Byrdie Boy is our series here to break outdated perceptions of men and beauty. We’ll be highlighting the routines, product picks, and musings of cool guys with a unique POV, so our male and man-aligned readers can learn about skincare, makeup, and hair from a trusted, inclusive source. Next, Aryan Simhadri tells us about his beauty favorites and what makes him feel confident.

Raise your hand if you were a Percy Jackson kid. I was! Or actually, I am. It’s a label that never leaves you, even when you finally come to the conclusion that you’re not actually a demigod. Although… sometimes I do still feel close to Athena.

If Aryan Simhadri, who plays *the* goat Grover Underwood in Disney+’s excellent Percy Jackson & the Olympians series, was a demigod, his famous parent would probably be Dionysus.

“He’s the god of theatre, so I figure I fall into that category automatically,” the actor tells Byrdie. “My dad’s a great engineer though, so Hephaestus wouldn’t be too crazy either.”

He’s not a demigod, but the 19-year-old is a part-time satyr—and Grover has his own lessons to teach about mythological prowess and having a strong sense of self. Playing him also requires lots of time in the hair and makeup chair; Simhardri’s head has impressive natural curl, but the horns have to be manufactured.

Ahead, the star tells us about his low-key beauty routine (including how he cares for that gorgeous hair), finding his light, and Percy Jacksonobviously.

Aika Flores / Byrdie


Let’s take it back to season one of Percy Jackson. What did it feel like when you got the call that the role was yours? What has being a part of this cast meant to you?

“Well, what I remember from when I first booked it was a lot of screaming and running around the house and calling people. I grew up on these books, so being able to play my favorite character is nothing short of a dream role.

As for being a part of this cast, I think, if anything, it’s not an under-exaggeration to say it changed my life. I’m very grateful to have made some of my closest friends on this show, and to be part of such an incredible family.”

What’s your favorite memory from shooting Season Two?

“I would say the week on the Ironclad when I was a camera trainee. I wasn’t working a lot this season, and our show runners Dan and Jon sat me down and told me I was welcome on set any time regardless of whether or not I was working. It was incredibly sweet, and I took them up on their offer by becoming a camera trainee! I think it definitely helped me with finding the lens and lights during filming which is unfortunately one of my weaknesses.”

Aika Flores / Byrdie


Which god/creature/staple in Greek mythology do you most connect with, from a grooming standpoint?

“Aphrodite because I’m naturally beautiful. Either that or Mr. D, since Jason Mantzoukas has curly hair like the rest of the cast!”

What does your daily grooming routine look like?

“It’s pretty simple. It’s just showering, letting my hair air dry, and throwing on some moisturizer if I’m at home. If I’m going to an event, I put a little bit of product in it, like a leave-in conditioner, and cover my under eyes. As for the night time, it’s pretty much the same thing.”

Do you have a signature scent?

“Unfortunately, I believe it’s the last bottle ever manufactured of it, and the label came off in a factory explosion which destroyed every bottle but mine, so even if I wanted to tell you, I couldn’t.

I’m kidding, it’s a Maison Margiela scent that I received as a gift from a work event!”

Getty Images / Byrdie


Tell me about your curls! How do you care for them?

“The main way I take care of them is knowing how often to wash them, and what to wash them with. I’m not picky when it comes to the product, but if you’re shampooing and conditioning every day, it’s gonna dry and thin out your hair. At least, that’s what I think. As for how to treat them, I like to throw in coconut oil every now and again and then wash it out to keep it healthy.”

What’s been inspiring you lately?

“Great question! We just finished our Percy Jackson Season Two press tour, which was such a whirlwind and an incredible experience. And while I loved getting to travel the world with some of my closest friends, I found that being away from work just made me want to return even more. I’m not sure there’s a specific motivation, but being away made me realize how much I love working, and what I get to do for a living. I’ve also been listening to a lot of Timothée Chalamet speeches lately.”

Aika Flores / Byrdie


Are you into any wellness practices right now?

“I like to try and meditate or pray after a shower, but other than that, not really! Even though I really should.”

What does your skincare routine look like while traveling?

“I like to shave with a single blade razor, as it makes me break out less, and then I use after shave and throw on some moisturizer. Pretty simple.”

How would you describe your personal style?

“It’s something that’s still changing day to day. If there’s one vice I have, it’s a cool jacket. I also love a good sweater (it being green is optional). A few brands that I would love to work with one day and try to mimic are vintage YSL, Brunello Cucinelli, and again, Maison Margiela.”

What are some things or products bringing you true joy right now?

“I love my cologne, and a good pair of over the head headphones, like the Bose QC45’s I’m wearing right now!”

Getty Images / Byrdie


What does confidence look and feel like to you? How do you stay confident?

“The best piece of advice I’ve ever heard for maintaining confidence is, ‘if you accept praise, you must accept criticism, and once you do that you are a slave to both.’ Be the judge of your own life! Who cares what anyone else thinks?”

What are you looking forward to in 2026?

“One of my goals as an actor has always been to lead a box office film, and I believe 2026 is the year I do!”

Maia Shibutani on Surviving Kidney Cancer and Eyeing the 2026 Olympics

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Maia Shibutani on Surviving Kidney Cancer and Eyeing the 2026 Olympics

At the time of our interview, it’s about two months before the US Figure Skating Championships, which will determine whether the Shib Sibs make it to the Olympics.

“Skating was my dream,” Shibutani, now 31, tells me. “Competing at the Olympics was my dream. I made that dream come true between the ages of 4 and 23, but I’m so grateful that I’ve been able to recommit and make this decision again. It feels even more powerful this time around.”

The hard-fought path to her long-awaited return is as much a story of emotional recovery as a physical one. For seven years, she worked to heal physically from a grueling surgery, but perhaps even more challenging was making peace with the diagnosis that shook her sense of self. Now, she’s pulling back the curtain on what that time looked like—and how she’s redefining what comes next.

In the fall of 2019, not long before the world slipped into a global pandemic, Shibutani was supposed to attend a family screening of Jon Chu’s musical drama In the Heights when an unusual stomach pain stopped her—one unlike any injury or illness she’d experienced in her athletic career. “For me to be like, ‘No, no, no, I won’t go to the screening. I need to go to the ER’—it was just completely out of character,” she recalls.

While the discomfort was ultimately caused by a virus, a separate scan later revealed a more concerning abnormality: She had SDH-deficient renal cell carcinoma—a rare and hereditary form of kidney cancer.

“Cancer is a pretty terrifying word for anyone to hear, much less think about,” Shibutani says. She underwent a procedure to remove the tumor, which involved multiple incisions into her stomach. The recovery, she adds, took much longer than she expected—ironically made more difficult by her strong abdominal muscles. “My body did not react kindly,” she elaborates. “I had a very hard time walking for a couple of weeks, because the movement would affect my stomach area.” And for an elite athlete whose life was built around motion and activity, the mental toll was as heavy as the physical.

“I felt very disconnected from my body,” Shibutani says. And unlike any previous setback, “it was the first challenge I’d ever experienced alone.” Prior to this, she at least had her brother going through challenges alongside her—the grueling training seasons, the relentless pressure of competition, even the weight of family stress. This time, however, no one could truly relate to what she was going through.

People on the Move: Q4 2025

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People on the Move: Q4 2025

Sol de Janeiro appoints Jordan Saxemard as global CMDO

In October, Sol de Janeiro appointed Jordan Saxemard as global Chief Marketing and Digital Officer. Saxemard brings more than two decades of experience across beauty, luxury and technology, most recently serving as president for the Americas and EMEA at Dyson, following a 12-year tenure at Coty Luxury.

“As we enter our next chapter, I am excited to partner with Jordan to continue bringing our joyful, inclusive vision of beauty to more people around the world,” said Heela Yang, co-founder and CEO of Sol de Janeiro, in a company press release. In his new role, Saxemard leads global brand and product marketing, communications, digital and consumer engagement strategy as the company continues to expand its global footprint.

PCPC expands leadership team with science and global strategy appointments

Personal Care Products Council named Jaap Venema Chief Scientist and Executive VP of Science, effective November 3, 2025, and appointed Heather Helm as Executive VP of Global Strategies last month. Venema brings more than 35 years of experience across academia, the pharmaceutical sector and nonprofit leadership, most recently serving as CSO at the U.S. Pharmacopeia, while Helm joins PCPC after more than two decades at the U.S. Department of Commerce, including serving as principal deputy assistant secretary for industry and analysis.

“Against the backdrop of an increasingly complex geopolitical landscape, Heather’s appointment comes at a pivotal moment for our industry,” said Tom Myers, president and CEO of PCPC in a press statement. According to the organization, the appointments are intended to strengthen its science-based advocacy and support international trade, regulatory alignment and global market access for the cosmetics and personal care products industry.

Melis del Rey becomes newest CEO for Supergoop!

Supergoop! has named Melis del Rey chief executive officer and board director, with her appointment taking effect December 8, 2025. Del Rey brings more than two decades of experience in the global beauty and consumer products industry, most recently serving as general manager of Amazon U.S. Health and Beauty, where she led the evolution of the platform’s beauty business.

“Melis is a dynamic and visionary leader with a proven track record of building global brands, strengthening retail partnerships, and delivering exceptional consumer experiences,” said Edgar Huber, chairman of the board at Supergoop! in a media statement. She succeeds Gregory Polcer, who has served as interim CEO since May 2025 and will remain on the company’s board of directors.

Dr. Felipe Jimenez named Senior VP of Scientific Innovation at Curology

Jimenez brings more than two decades of experience in skin biology, product development and R&D leadership, most recently serving as Chief Science Officer at NULASTIN, where he advanced new technologies and expanded the company’s intellectual property portfolio.

Starting in his new role last month, he is leading Curology’s scientific strategy, with a focus on formulation innovation, real-world testing and cross-functional R&D partnerships throughout 2026. The company said his work will support its mission to make effective skincare more accessible and help guide upcoming science-backed product launches following the recent DayPrimeRx debut.

iLABS appoints Max Maur SVP of Sales

In November, global beauty company iLABS has appointed Max Maur as Senior VP of Sales as the company looks to support its next phase of growth. In the role, Maur is focused on deepening existing partnerships and expanding iLABS’ customer base across the beauty sector.

He brings more than 20 years of industry experience, combining a background in chemical engineering with senior leadership roles spanning sales, marketing, operations and R&D. According to the company, his experience across the full value chain, from ingredient formulation to finished goods manufacturing, is expected to support customer-focused growth initiatives.

Former L’Oréal Groupe executive joins CAKES body

In October, intimate apparel company CAKES body appointed Erica Culpepper as its first president as the brand enters its next phase of growth. Culpepper joined CAKES after more than 20 years at L’Oréal Groupe, where she held senior leadership roles across brands including IT Cosmetics, Carol’s Daughter, L’Oréal Paris and Maybelline New York, with a focus on scaling founder-led and high-growth businesses.

“I’ve admired CAKES body since its early days — what started as a clever solution has evolved into a full-on cultural movement rooted in purpose, community, and simplicity,” Culpepper said in a press statement. In the role, she is focused on operational strategy, innovation and expansion across retail and international markets while working closely with co-founders Taylor Capuano and Casey Sarai.

Mattifying Primer For a Smooth Matte Makeup Look

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Mattifying Primer For a Smooth Matte Makeup Look

Over many eras of makeup fashion, matte skin has gone in and out of vogue.  It’s definitely one of my favorite looks.  Being an artist of the 80s, I absolutely adore a seamless matte complexion with pops of vivid color.   The ongoing problem, however, has always been how to create and sustain such a complexion without completely traumatizing the skin.  This is because traditional mattifying products have typically tended to dehydrate skin and clog pores.

Does Matte Makeup Dry Out Skin?

From the early days of stage makeup where enormous powder puffs full of talc-based powders were pounded onto the skin, anyone who wore it felt the constant yoyo of dry to oily extremes throughout the day.  And the more powder we used, the more our skin rebounded to a shiny, oily state.

Then in the 80s, some of the biggest makeup brands started launching matte liquid or crème–to–powder foundations and with them, a whole new set of issues began.  When first applied, your face would feel so tight and dry that you’d think it was going to crack off.  Then, halfway through the day, you were shiny and oily again.  It isn’t surprising that such results were the norm of the day considering the technology that we had to work with back then.

The simple truth is that any product that proposes to create long term mattification using drying ingredients is destined for failure.  This is because the skin is a living breathing organ that can sense when its moisture is being depleted.  Our body’s natural reaction to drying ingredients is to purge oil to compensate for the dryness.  It creates a cycle of oiliness and a need for mattifying that never ends.  But in the process, we always end up clogging the pores and making the complexion look heavy or caky.

The good news is that our industry has evolved and brands are not only starting to develop new ways to control shine but they’re finding ways to do it without completely trashing the skin.  Of course, it’s no surprise that jane iredale the original Skincare Makeup has been at the forefront of this movement.

Mattifying Primer That Controls Shine Without Drying

This year, we’re excited to showcase the latest in matte technology with an extraordinary new primer called Smooth Affair Mattifying.  The really astonishing element of this primer isn’t only how effectively it controls shine.  Its how the formula actually improves skin texture and health while creating the beautiful matte makeup lookwe’ve all been searchingfor.

The key to Smooth Affair Mattifying Face Primeris its highly effective ingredient list.

  • We start with Hibiscus Extract which supports the skin’s elasticity and prevents water loss. This compound is also excellent for improving the skin’s natural repair process and giving it a more youthful appearance.
  • Next we include Rose Geranium Leaf Extract which helps protect and repair the skin from UV damage as well as providing powerful antioxidant protection.
  • But the key ingredient for mattifying is Red Algae extract. Not only does Red Algae help regulate sebum production but it also supports the skin’s natural oil-moisture ratio for a smooth matte appearance.
  • We also include Titanium Dioxide which helps to create a more flawless finish.

Over and above the therapeutic benefits of the ingredients we do use, this formula also provides excellent wear for people who have sensitivity or reactions to traditional primers because, of course, we leave out all of the top sensitizers that are in traditional primers.  What’s left is performance the likes of which you’ve never seen.  We think you’re really going to love the way it looks and feels on your skin.

How To Use Smooth Affair Mattifying Face Primer

Our recommendation is to try it under your favorite jane iredale foundation and look at the long-term results.

Here are some suggested products to combine Smooth Affair Mattifying Face Primer with:

As the summer months progress and your skin starts to produce more perspiration and sebum, Smooth Affair Mattifying Make Primermay become your favorite new complexion product.  Let us know what you think and we look forward to hearing from you!

Iles Formula Hair Talk: Miabella Alomasso

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Iles Formula Hair Talk: Miabella Alomasso

Miabella Alomassor is a London–based hairstylist, educator, and the Founder & Creative Director of Smuk London, a luxury hair, beauty, and wellness studio in Belgravia. She specialises in natural, beautiful, and healthy hair, with a signature expertise in Scandinavian blondes, seamless extensions, and modern editorial bridal styling.

woman with hair in curlers

  1. What would you term as your specialty within your trade?

Scandi-blonde, effortless extensions, editorial-inspired styling.

  1. What’s the most enjoyable part of your job?

To make women feel beautiful.

  1. Why did you choose the path of hairdressing and was it easy to fall into this work?

I always new I wanted to be a hairdresser and it came natural for me from the very beginning.

  1. If you had not made the decision to be a hairdresser what would you have been?

Interior designer.

split image one of the back of the head braided and one of a woman in a white dress

  1. What is your greatest strength?

Generally go towards anything with a positive energy and lots of patience.

  1. Your favorite hairdressing tools?

A large curling iron + wide tooth comb.

  1. Tell us about your relationship with Iles Formula. How you discovered us and which formula is your favorite?

I saw it first on instagram through some Scandinavian salon I’m following and when I tried the serum I fell in love!

miabella alomassor in the salon doing a client's hair

  1. What was the most challenging job you ever made?

My very few music video with one of the biggest celebrities in Copenhagen, 16hours shooting, 5 different hair looks and full body paint.

  1. What was your worst hair moment and why, privately or on set/stage or in the salon?

When I change from one hair brand I worked with for 15 years to a new brand. When I brushed out my perfect classic set and there was no waves, all due to the wrong product usage. Products are a big part of our creative tool box.

  1. If you could style anyone’s hair, who would it be and why?

J.Lo I’ve always LOVED her look and anything will look beautiful on her.

portrait of a model with hair falling across the face

  1. Where do you pull hair inspiration from?

Fellow hairdressers in the industry and celebrities/Instagram.

  1. Your advice to young hairdressers starting out?

You can do anything you put your mind to if you work hard enough.

How to get the most out of your beauty bars

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How to get the most out of your beauty bars

As consumers become more eco-conscious, shampoo and conditioner bars have become increasingly popular. These solid alternatives to traditional bottled products are not only better for the environment but also for your wallet and shower space.

However, to get the most out of your shampoo and conditioner bars, proper storage is essential. Here, we share the top storage tricks to keep your bars in prime condition, ensuring they last as long as possible and perform effectively with every use.

1. Master the D-A-D Principle: Drainage, Airflow, and Dry Air

When it comes to storing shampoo and conditioner bars, the golden rule is D-A-D: Drainage, Airflow, and Dry Air. These three elements are crucial to prevent your bars from becoming mushy or dissolving prematurely.

  • Drainage: Make sure your bars are out of direct contact with water when not in use. A well-drained bar lasts longer because it isn’t sitting in water, which can cause it to soften and break down quickly.
  • Airflow: Good ventilation is vital. A bar that gets plenty of air circulation dries faster, reducing the chance of it becoming soft and mushy. Ensure your storage spot has sufficient airflow around the bar to facilitate quick drying.
  • Dry Air: Keeping your bars in a dry environment is key. Excess humidity or moisture in the air can lead to quicker degradation of the product. Avoid keeping your bars in a damp shower area or a closed, unventilated space.

2. Use a Dedicated Storage Tray for Optimal Longevity

One of the simplest yet most effective ways to store your shampoo and conditioner bars is by using a dedicated storage tray. Our specially designed storage trays are perfect for this purpose. Here’s why:

  • Super Absorbent: These trays are crafted from materials that quickly draw moisture away from your bars, allowing them to dry faster and maintain their shape and integrity for longer.
  • Labeled for Convenience: With labels to help distinguish between different bars, you can easily organise your shampoo and conditioner bars, ensuring you use the right one every time.
  • Stylish and Functional: Not only are these trays practical, but they also add a stylish touch to your bathroom decor. Their sleek design complements any shower or bath setup, making them a functional accessory you’ll be proud to display.

By using these storage trays, you ensure your bars are kept out of water and in a well-ventilated space, enhancing their longevity and effectiveness.

3. Shampoo and Soap Saver Bags: The Perfect Storage Solution for Bits and Pieces

Another fantastic option for storing your shampoo and conditioner bars is using our shampoo and soap saver bags. These bags are particularly useful for:

  • Storing Small Bits and Pieces: Don’t let those small bits go to waste! Collect the little pieces of bars and store them in the saver bags. This prevents waste and ensures you get the most out of every single bar.
  • Keeping Bars Dry: You can also place a whole bar in the saver bag, which helps keep it dry between uses. The material of the bags allows for sufficient airflow, helping the bars to dry quickly and stay intact.

Easy to Use and Hang: These bags come with a convenient hanging loop, making it easy to store your bars in an accessible, dry location. You can hang them on a hook away from direct water flow to keep your bars at their best.

4. Avoid Common Storage Mistakes

To ensure your shampoo and conditioner bars last as long as possible, it’s crucial to avoid some common storage mistakes:

  • Leaving Bars in Puddles: Always avoid placing your bars in a location where they can sit in water. Even a small puddle can lead to a mushy, unusable bar.
  • Storing in Closed Containers: While it might be tempting to store your bars in a closed container for tidiness, this can actually shorten their lifespan. Without proper airflow, bars can stay damp, leading to a breakdown of the product. Opt for open trays or soap dishes with drainage instead.
  • Exposure to Excessive Heat or Sunlight: Keep your bars away from direct sunlight or excessive heat, as these can cause them to melt or become too soft. A cool, dry place is always the best option for storage.

5. Embrace Multi-Use Storage Solutions

For those who prefer versatility, consider using multi-use storage solutions that offer both functionality and flexibility:

  • Shower Caddies with Built-in Drainage: These caddies are designed to allow water to drain away from the bar, providing both storage and longevity. Choose one with enough spacing between shelves to promote airflow.

6. Traveling with Your Bars

If you’re taking your shampoo and conditioner bars on the go, consider travel-friendly storage options.

  • Portable storage trays: These cases are perfect for travel, keeping your bars secure and preventing them from getting wet in your luggage. Look for cases with ventilation holes to allow your bars to dry even while in transit. Like the Ethique travel tin!

By following these storage tips and using the right products, you can extend the life of your shampoo and conditioner bars, ensuring they remain effective and provide the best results for every wash. Remember, proper storage is key to maximising both the longevity and performance of your bars, making your sustainable choice even more impactful.

Explore our range of storage trays, shampoo and soap saver bags, and travel accessories to keep your shampoo and conditioner bars in top shape. Make the most of your eco-friendly beauty routine with these simple, effective storage tricks!

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