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Hydrating Makeup Routine for Winter

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Hydrating Makeup Routine for Winter

My skin is not its best self in the winter. Between the weather, the heat, and the fact that I should really remember to drink more water, I woke up on this cold January morning with very, very dry skin. (Not the New Year New Me look I was aiming for.)

Thankfully, my makeup bag has the skin-nourishing jane iredale formulas needed to revive my dull winter complexion so that I can leave my house looking glowy even if I did not wake up that way.

Prep with Hydrating Skincare

I start by prepping my face with BeautyPrep™ Hyaluronic Serum followed by BeautyPrep™ Face Moisturizer to plump my skin and give it a much-needed boost of hydration. (I cannot recommend the Hyaluronic Serum highly enough – it saves my skin in the winter.)

The Skincare Makeup System

Next, I use Smooth Affair® Brightening Face Primer to blur my pores and help my makeup last all day.

I am super pale and sunburn easily so foundation with SPF is a must year-round. My favorite SPF foundation is PurePressed® Base because it has the buildable coverage I like but still lets my skin breathe.

I tend to apply most makeup with my fingers, but I use The Handi™ Brush for PurePressed® Base. (Pro tip from the jane iredale Educators: apply PurePressed® Base with The Handi™ Brush using downward strokes to help the minerals lay flat against your skin.)

That’s followed up with a quick spritz of POMMISST™ Hydration Spray to set the minerals.

Cheeks

A lot of bronzers can appear orange on my skin tone but the Glow Time™ Bronzer Stick in Sizzle blends in nicely, providing a subtle contoured look.

I add Glow Time® Blush Stick in Balmy to the apples of my cheeks for a flush of color and dust the golden highlighter shade from Moonglow Bronzer Refill across the top of my cheekbones.

Eyes

PureBrow® Brow Gel

After a quick application of PureBrow® Brow Gel in Clear to tame my eyebrows, I sweep the golden highlighter shade from Moonglow Bronzer Refill onto my eyelids – it’s a great multitasker. For a bolder eye look, I add in a little Mystikol® in Dark Topaz.

PureLash® Lengthening Mascara in Jet Black is my go-to mascara as it lengthens my lashes without causing irritation when I’m wearing contacts.

Lips

Just Kissed® Lip & Cheek Stain

To finish off the look, I swipe on Forever Peach Just Kissed® Lip & Cheek Stain, which successfully moisturizes my chapped winter lips and provides a subtle red tint (my favorite). One of the many things I love about the Just Kissed line is that each formula adjusts to your skin’s chemistry, creating a shade that’s unique to you.

I Tried Both-Here’s What Actually Worked For My Hair And Skin

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I Tried Both-Here’s What Actually Worked For My Hair And Skin

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Hey there! Some links on this page are affiliate links which means that, if you choose to make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I greatly appreciate your support 🙂

Let’s talk about something that seems small but can make a huge difference in your beauty routine; your pillowcase.

I used to sleep on basic cotton pillowcases for years (like most of us do). But after dealing with frizz, breakouts, and feeling like my skincare was drying and aging overnight, I decided it was time for an upgrade. I tested both silk and bamboo pillowcases for weeksand girl, the difference was undeniable. If you’re wondering which one is truly better for your hair and skin, I’ve got all the details.

Silk vs Bamboo Pillowcase: Which One Is the Best for You?

After using both, I can tell you that both silk and bamboo pillowcases are major upgrades from the regular cotton ones we often sleep on. But which one should you go for? Let’s dive into the details and compare them head-to-head.

silk or bamboo pillow cases which one is better for your hair

My Personal Experience with Silk Pillowcases

When I made the switch from cotton to silk pillowcases, I picked a set from SILKTALE. Their pillowcases are made from mulberry silk and are colored with environmentally safe dyes. I preferred mulberry silk pillowcases because they are rich in amino acids that prevent wrinkles, aging, retain better moisture and protect hair from damage.

When I first switched to silk, I immediately noticed how incredibly smooth and luxurious it felt on my skin. It was like I was sleeping on a cloud. Silk has a natural sheen that not only looks chic but also helps to lock in moisture. I noticed a significant difference in how my skin felt when I woke up. It was less dry, and my fine lines appeared smoother.

For my hair, the experience was just as amazing. I have wavy hair, and silk helped reduce the frizz I’d often wake up with. The friction on my hair was minimal, which meant fewer knots and hair breakage. My hair tangles were almost negligible. However, the luxury of silk comes at a higher price, and I found that it requires more care when washing. I had to be extra gentle when cleaning it to keep the fabric intact.

Last update on 2025-12-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Silk pillow case is better than bamboo because

  • If you’re craving a touch of luxury, silk is divine. It’s smoother to the touch and feels like you’re sleeping on a cloud.
  • Helps your skin retain moisture
  • Reduces friction, meaning fewer sleep lines and less hair breakage
  • Comes in a ton of color and design options (hello, aesthetic bedroom goals!)

So yes, silk is gorgeous and effective, but it’s higher maintenance and comes with a heavier price tag. Plus, it’s not as allergy-friendly as bamboo.

Last update on 2025-12-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

My Personal Experience with Bamboo Pillowcases

Then, I gave bamboo pillowcases by WARMDERN a try, and I have to say, I was pleasantly surprised. The pillowcases were super soft, comfy and had a cooling effect which if you are a hot sleeper like me you are going to appreciate it.

First off, bamboo is super soft. It might not have the same luxurious sheen as silk, but it’s just as comfortable and gentle on your skin. One of the biggest benefits I experienced was how it didn’t irritate my skin like other materials sometimes do. Since I have sensitive skin, I noticed bamboo kept my breakouts at bay and reduced the redness I sometimes wake up with.

For my hair, bamboo worked wonders too. It’s just as effective as silk when it comes to moisture retention. My hair felt smoother, and I didn’t have to deal with the usual dryness that comes from sleeping on a cotton pillowcase. Plus, bamboo is way easier to take care of. I didn’t need to worry about any special washing instructions, and I could simply toss it in the washing machine without a second thought.

Last update on 2025-12-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Bamboo pillow case is better than silk because:

  • Hypoallergenic: It’s a dream come true if you’ve got sensitive skin, allergies, or scalp conditions like psoriasis or dermatitis.
  • Moisture-Friendly: It doesn’t suck the moisture out of your skin or hair (unlike cotton). You wake up with hydrated skin and smoother strands.
  • Budget-Friendly: Bamboo pillowcases are way more affordable than silk without compromising on beauty benefits.
  • Eco-Friendly: As someone who cares about our planet, I love that bamboo is a sustainable material. Win-win!

Last update on 2025-12-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Here’s the Breakdown: Silk vs Bamboo Pillowcase Comparison

Feature Bamboo Pillowcase Silk Pillowcase
Texture Smooth, soft Ultra-smooth, luxurious
Moisture Retention Great for hair & skin hydration Excellent moisture retention
Hypoallergenic ✅ Best for sensitive skin Not as hypoallergenic
Eco-Friendly ✅ Sustainable & biodegradable Less eco-friendly
Maintenance Easy to wash & maintain Needs delicate care
Price Budget-friendly Premium pricing
Design Choices Limited Lots of colors and patterns
Buy Here Buy Bamboo Pillowcase Buy Silk Pillowcase

What to Choose: Silk or Bamboo Pillowcase?

To sum it all up:

If you’re on a budget, have sensitive skin, or simply want something eco-friendly and easy to maintain, bamboo is your best friend. If you’re looking for a luxurious pillowcase that feels amazing and helps with moisture retention, silk might be your go-to.

If you want my expert advice: go for bamboo. Personally, I’ve been loving the bamboo pillowcases for the past few months because they’re so soft, hypoallergenic, and affordable. But I can’t deny the luxurious feel of silk, and I still use it on special nights when I want to pamper myself.

No matter which one you choose, silk or bamboo pillowcases will help improve your skin and hair health. They’re a game-changer when it comes to preventing hair breakage, skin irritation, and sleep lines. Trust me, after switching from regular cotton pillowcases, I’ve noticed a real improvement in how I feel when I wake up.

Which one do you think you’ll try: silk or bamboo? I’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences in the comments below. And before you leave, don’t miss this helpful post:

Have a lovely day!

Gentle New Year Skincare Resolutions Backed by Science (2026 Guide)| Tips for Natural Beauty

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Gentle New Year Skincare Resolutions Backed by Science (2026 Guide)| Tips for Natural Beauty

I’m Entering the New Year With a Softer, Science-Based Approach to Skincare

I’ve learned over the years that my skin doesn’t respond well to extremes—especially at the start of a new year. Dramatic routines, aggressive treatments, and trend-hopping only leave my skin confused, irritated, and compromised.

This year, I’m choosing gentle, science-backed skincare resolutions that actually support long-term skin health. Instead of chasing fast results, I’m focusing on habits proven to protect my skin barrier, reduce inflammation, and improve my skin resilience over time.

If you want healthier skin—not just temporarily, but sustainably—these resolutions are for you.

1. I’m Prioritizing Skin Barrier Health Over Every Other Goal

The skin barrier (also called the stratum corneum) is your skin’s first line of defense. Scientifically, it’s made of corneocytes held together by lipids like ceramides, cholesterol, and fatty acids. When this barrier is compromised, studies show increased water loss, irritation, breakouts, and sensitivity.

This year, my skincare resolution is simple: protect the barrier first.

That means:

  • Using gentle, low-pH cleansers
  • Limiting exfoliation to once or twice a week at most
  • Choosing moisturizers with ceramides, glycerin, and panthenol

When your barrier is healthy, concerns like dryness, redness, and even acne become easier to manage.

2. I’m Choosing Consistency Over Skincare Perfection

From a scientific perspective, skin cells renew approximately every 28–40 days, depending on age. This means no product can work overnight—results depend on consistent use over time.

Instead of changing routines every few weeks, I’m committing to:

  • A simple morning and evening routine
  • Giving products at least 6–8 weeks before judging results
  • Avoiding unnecessary product layering

If you want real results, consistency matters far more than having the “perfect” routine.

3. I’m Buying Less—and Respecting My Skin’s Adaptation Cycle

Overusing new products is one of the fastest ways to disrupt your skin barrier. Research shows that frequent product switching increases the risk of irritant contact dermatitis—especially when actives are involved.

This year, my mindful beauty resolution is to:

  • Finish products before opening new ones
  • Introduce only one new product at a time
  • Patch test every active product

➡️ More about How to Introduce New Skincare Products Safely

Your skin thrives on stability, not constant experimentation.

4. I’m Listening to My Skin—Not Algorithm-Driven Trends

Social media trends often prioritize dramatic before-and-after results, not long-term skin health. Dermatologists consistently warn that what works for one skin type may damage another.

This year, I’m paying attention to:

  • Signs of irritation (stinging, redness, tightness)
  • Seasonal skin changes
  • My skin’s response—not influencer routines

If your skin feels calm, hydrated, and balanced, you’re doing it right—even if your routine isn’t trending.

5. Beauty Trends I’m Choosing to Follow This Year

Not all trends are bad. Some are supported by solid research and dermatological practice.

Trends worth following:

  • Barrier-repair skincare (ceramides, cholesterol, fatty acids)
  • Skinimalism: fewer products, better formulations
  • Bakuchiol as a gentler alternative to retinol for sensitive skin
  • Daily sunscreen use, even indoors near windows
  • Microbiome-friendly skincare that supports healthy skin flora

These trends align with what science already tells us about healthy skin.

6. Beauty Trends I’m Skipping for the Sake of My Skin

Some popular trends may look exciting but can compromise skin health.

Trends I’m avoiding:

  • Daily exfoliating acids or peels
  • Overuse of high-percentage actives without professional guidance
  • DIY skincare with acidic or abrasive ingredients
  • Trend-driven product layering without purpose

Skipping these doesn’t mean you’re missing out—it means you’re protecting your skin.

7. I’m Treating Skincare as Preventive Self-Care

Scientifically, prevention is more effective than correction. Daily sun protection, barrier support, and gentle cleansing do more for your skin long term than aggressive treatments later.

This year, I’m reframing skincare as:

  • Preventive care, not damage control
  • A daily ritual, not a chore
  • A form of self-respect, not self-criticism

You Don’t Need a New Face—Just Better, Smarter Care

If there’s one resolution I’m carrying into the new year, it’s this: healthy skin comes from gentle, informed choices repeated consistently.

Neither you need more products nor you need harsher treatments. All you need is education, patience, and a routine that supports your skin’s natural biology.

FAQ: New Year Skincare Resolutions

Are gentle skincare routines really effective?

Yes. Clinical research shows that gentle cleansing, barrier repair, and sun protection significantly improve skin function over time.

How long should I follow a routine before changing it?

Dermatologists recommend at least 6–8 weeks unless irritation occurs.

What is the most important skincare resolution for the new year?

Protecting your skin barrier and using sunscreen daily.

If this post helped you rethink your skincare goals, save it or share it with someone who wants healthier skin—not harsher routines—this year. ✨

Velvet Skin, Romantic Blush, Grunge

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Velvet Skin, Romantic Blush, Grunge

Say what you will about winter, but the season knows how to romanticize a routine: candles flickering in every corner, cozy blankets in constant rotation, loungewear becoming a literal uniform, and those earlier evenings that make an early pour of red wine feel perfectly reasonable. It also brings that familiar itch to refresh your makeup bag, and with celebrity makeup artists already sketching out the season’s biggest trends, I can assure you there’s plenty to get excited about.

The overall vibe this winter feels different in the best way. As celebrity makeup artist Lisa Eldridge told me, “as we move into the greyer, more introspective months, there’s a palpable shift in mood, a collective desire for makeup maximalism and expressive color.” But that doesn’t mean there’s only one way to show up. Euphoria’s lead makeup artist Donni Davy reminded me, “it depends on one’s mood! There’s room for it all.” So whether you’re feeling soft and minimal or ready to go full maximalist, winter’s letting you do both. A snapshot of what’s ahead includes the whole spectrum—from velvety skin and blurred lips to romantic flushes, bold color, and even a little grunge.

To unpack everything properly, I went straight to the experts. Davy squeezed in our chat between filming scenes for Season 3, and Eldridge—legendary artist and namesake brand founder whose clients include Dua Lipa, Kate Winslet, and Keira Knightley—walked me through the shifts she’s seeing right now. Ahead, all the biggest makeup trends for winter 2026.

Why 5-Minute Rituals Beat New Year’s Resolutions – Merindah Botanicals

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Why 5-Minute Rituals Beat New Year’s Resolutions – Merindah Botanicals

It’s January.
Your Instagram feed is full of “New Year, New You” promises.
30-day challenges.
Elaborate morning routines.
Skincare regimens with 12 steps.

And you? You’re already exhausted just reading about them.

Here’s the truth no one really wants to say out loud: New Year’s resolutions fail because they’re built on guilt, not reality.

Rituals, on the other hand? Rituals stick.

Here’s why.

The Problem with New Year’s Resolutions

You start January with the best intentions. This year, you’ll finally have that perfect skincare routine. You’ll wake up early, do the 10-step Korean routine, meditate, journal.

Calm. Glowing. Effortless.

Except… life happens.

You hit snooze.
The kids need breakfast.
Work emails start before you’ve even had coffee.

And suddenly, that elaborate routine feels like one more thing you’re failing at.

The problem with New Year’s resolutions isn’t you—it’s the resolutions themselves:

They’re all-or-nothing. Miss one day and you feel like you’ve failed. The guilt spiral begins, and by week two, you’ve abandoned the whole thing.

They’re built on guilt. “I should be better, do more, try harder.” Resolutions come from a place of not being enough, rather than deserving care.

They ignore your reality. Who has an hour for self-care when you’re already running on empty? When you’re juggling work, family, life, and everything in between?

They’re unsustainable. By February, most resolutions are quietly abandoned (and never spoken of again).

It’s not that you lack discipline.
It’s that the system was never designed for real women with real lives.

Why 5-Minute Rituals Actually Stick

A ritual isn’t about perfection. It’s about showing up for yourself—even if it’s just for 5 minutes. It’s the difference between “I have to do my skincare” and “This is my moment of calm before the chaos.” One feels like a chore. The other feels like self-care.

Here’s why rituals work when resolutions don’t:

They’re realistic. Five minutes fits into any life, any schedule. Before the kids wake up. After they’re in bed. Between meetings. You have 5 minutes. You just need permission to use them.

They’re built on self-care, not guilt. Rituals come from “I deserve this,” not “I should do this.” That shift in mindset changes everything.

They’re consistent, not perfect. Miss a day? No drama. Start again tomorrow.

They deliver results. Small, consistent actions compound. Five minutes a day, five days a week, adds up to real change—in your skin and in your mindset.

They feel good. Rituals are about the experience — not just ticking a box. The scent of aromatherapy oils. The warmth of the cleanser. The moment of calm. That’s what keeps you coming back.

The psychology is simple: rituals create anchors in your day. They signal to your brain, “This is my time.”

And because they’re achievable, you actually do them — and consistency always wins.

The difference is subtle but powerful:
One feels like a chore.
The other feels like care.

The 5-Minute Ritual Framework

Ready to build a ritual that actually sticks? Here’s how:

Step 1: Choose your moment

Morning, before the day takes over — or evening, as a wind-down before bed.
Choose the moment that genuinely works for your life.

Step 2: Keep it simple

Three to four steps max.
Products that multitask.
No complicated layering. No waiting around.

Step 3: Engage your senses

This is where aromatherapy changes everything.
Scent instantly signals calm. Texture matters. Warmth matters.
This is what turns skincare into a ritual instead of a task.

Step 4: Be consistent, not perfect

Aim for five days a week — not seven.
Miss a day? No guilt. Just begin again.

A simple 5-minute evening ritual might look like this:

  • Cleanse (1 min): Remove the day and reset

  • Tone (30 sec): Refresh and prepare your skin

  • Treat (2 min): Massage in your serum or elixir — this is your moment

  • Moisturise (1 min): Lock it all in

  • Breathe (30 sec): Inhale the aromatherapy. Exhale the day.

That’s it.
Five minutes. Spa-worthy skin. Restorative calm.

We created Merindah Botanicals for women who are tired of looking as exhausted as they feel—but don’t have an hour to fix it.

So we designed aromatherapy skincare that restores your skin and calms your mind — in just five minutes.

Powerful Australian botanicals.
Calming aromatherapy oils.
Rituals designed for real life.

Because self-care shouldn’t be another thing on your to-do list. It should be the thing that helps you survive it.

Ready to Start Your 5-Minute Ritual?

If you’re new to rituals (or just want to simplify), try our Starter Ritual. Three steps. Five minutes. Spa-worthy skin.

What’s inside:

  • Botanical Cleanser – Removes the day, nourishes your skin
  • Calming Toner – Refreshes, preps, calms
  • Nourishing Day Cream – Hydrates, protects, glows

Designed for real women with real lives who deserve real self-care.

Shop the Essential Beauty Pack

This Year, Choose Rituals Over Resolutions

Forget the guilt.
Forget the all-or-nothing resolutions.

This year, give yourself five minutes.

Five minutes of calm.
Five minutes of care.
Five minutes of showing up for yourself.

Because healthy skin—and a healthier mindset—doesn’t require perfection. It just requires consistency.

Ready to start your ritual?

Shop Your Ritual

2025 in Review: New Markets – Products – Category Expansion Drives Innovation

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2025 in Review: New Markets – Products – Category Expansion Drives Innovation

If geographic expansion defined one pillar of beauty growth in 2025, product-led expansion defined another. As competition intensified and consumers became more selective, brands increasingly looked beyond core categories—stretching into new formats, adjacencies and usage occasions to unlock incremental growth. The result was a year marked by boundary-blurring launches, where skincare met supplements, fragrance moved into hair and pets, and wellness continued its steady march into beauty’s mainstream.

Skincare remained the industry’s most versatile launchpad. Beiersdorf brought Eucerin to Japan with a market-specific anti-aging line, underscoring the importance of localisation even for global dermo brands. Boots prepared to launch its own science-led skincare label, Modern Chemistry, while Dove entered facial care in Brazil for the first time—extending its mass appeal into higher-value routines. At the premium end, Fenty Skin expanded at Ulta Beauty with an exclusive body care launch, reinforcing the category’s continued momentum beyond the face.

Haircare innovation also gathered pace. Henkel rolled out Schwarzkopf Gliss in the GCC, while Shiseido advanced proprietary technology with its 4MSK fluid penetration platform. Dyson pushed further into formulations with the debut of its Chitosan™ Pre-Style Cream and Post-Style Serum, designed to work in tandem with its hardware ecosystem. Zara, meanwhile, entered fragrance-adjacent territory with hair perfumes—Dawn, Dusk and Midnight—blurring the line between scent, styling and lifestyle.

Fragrance proved one of the most fertile grounds for diversification. Balenciaga launched a fine fragrance collection inspired by its Paris flagship, Louis Vuitton added colour cosmetics to its portfolio, and COS made its debut in fragrance—extending fashion brands’ influence deeper into beauty. Dolce & Gabbana went one step further, unveiling Fefé, a luxury alcohol-free perfume for dogs, signalling how niche, high-concept launches are increasingly part of luxury’s growth playbook.

Wellness and supplements continued to converge with beauty. Amway introduced its Nutrilite™ Begin 30 Holistic Wellness Programme, combining supplements, lifestyle guidance and a digital app, while Kourtney Kardashian’s Lemme expanded with GLP-1 Daily—a natural alternative inspired by weight-loss drug trends—followed by Lemme Grow, targeting hair density and shedding. L’Oréal, too, fuelled speculation by signalling interest in aesthetics and supplements, highlighting how established beauty players are reassessing category boundaries.

Retail-exclusive and platform-driven launches played a critical role in scaling new concepts. DAISE officially launched at Target following a strong Ulta debut, The Ordinary expanded onto Amazon Premium Beauty, and Essence Makeup secured a nationwide Walmart rollout. AESTURA debuted at Sephora Australia, while &be partnered with Pokémon on a Japan-only sunscreen collection—demonstrating the continued power of pop culture collaborations in driving differentiation.

Brands also explored new consumer segments and use cases. MGA Entertainment and Target launched Mini Glam™, positioning clean beauty for children, while Rexona partnered with Martha Stewart on a whole-body deodorant in Australia. Birkenstock expanded its Care Essentials line into full-body skincare and foot wellness, reinforcing the brand’s evolution from footwear icon to holistic lifestyle player.

Across markets, experimentation was balanced with pragmatism. Olay’s 3-in-1 cleansing pad embraced minimalist beauty, offering multifunctionality and simplicity, while Smashbox partnered with designer Ilka on its first fashion collaboration—using accessories rather than products to extend brand expression.

Taken together, 2025’s product launches revealed an industry increasingly comfortable with stretching its definitions of beauty. Whether through wellness, fragrance, hair, aesthetics or unexpected collaborations, brands sought growth not by doing more of the same, but by reimagining where beauty begins and ends. In a crowded market, innovation was no longer just about new formulas—it was about new categories, new rituals and new reasons for consumers to engage.

7 Best Gels for Curly Hair 2026, Tested on Various Curl Types

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7 Best Gels for Curly Hair 2026, Tested on Various Curl Types

This lightweight gel defines curls without stiffness, keeping them touchable and bouncy while reducing frizz. Formulated with aloe vera, flaxseed, and thyme, it locks in shape and shine without parabens, silicones, or sulfates. Our tester with 3A curls found that it enhanced definition on washday and kept frizzy hair at bay through day two without flaking or weighing it down. The cast scrunched out easily, leaving curls soft and natural-looking.

Our reviewer says: “I like how light this gel is on my fine curls. Other gels I’ve tried make them feel stiff and look greasy, even after I scrunch out the cast, but with this, my curls are very soft and bouncy. It’s pretty fragrantly perfumed, which I don’t love, but not so badly that I won’t keep using it after my leave-in and foam, then followed by a diffuser,” says Glamour commerce editor Malia Griggs.

4. Best for Fighting Humidity: Bumble and Bumble Curl Anti-Humidity Gel Oil

Bumble and Bumble Curl Anti-Humidity Gel Oil

  • What we love: Defines curls without crunch; resists humidity; thin, easy-to-distribute formula.
  • Worth noting: Can feel a little drying; fragrance is strong and sweet.

This hybrid gel-oil smooths frizz while giving curls hold and definition that lasts. The clear formula is lightweight but substantial enough to create a cast that scrunches out softly, leaving hair touchable instead of stiff. Our tester with 3C curls found that the product shaped spirals beautifully and resisted humidity, though it left some dryness by the end of the day.

Our tester says: “The gel defined my 3C curls really well and gave me a great look, though I did notice some dryness as the day went on,” says Glamour reviewer Páton Hardy. “The fragrance across the line was strong but pleasant—fruity, sweet, and similar to a perfume I’d wear—so it wasn’t off-putting. The shampoo lathered up quickly and felt very slippery, while the conditioner was thicker and hydrating. The gel itself was see-through and thin, easy to apply without running everywhere, and it dried down without leaving my hair crunchy.”

5. Best for Defining Coils: Aveda Be Curly Advanced Coil Definer Gel

Aveda Be Curly Advanced Coil Definer Gel

Aveda Be Curly Advanced Coil Definer Gel

  • What we love: Strong definition; smooths frizz; adds bounce and shine
  • Worth noting: Works best outside of extreme humidity; pair with with heavier-hold gel if you need extra staying power

Formulated for tighter curl patterns, this gel gives coils long-lasting definition and frizz protection without leaving them stiff. Coily hair — characterised by densely packed curls that are prone to dryness — often needs gels that balance moisture with enough hold to keep styles in place. With wheat-derived amino acids to smooth and strengthen strands and mango butter to nourish and hydrate, this formula helps coils stay soft, defined, and resilient.

Our tester says: “My curls felt light and bouncy, which is important for my hair, since it can fall flat pretty easily,” says Glamour reviewer Sarah Holden. “Living in the South with intense humidity, I found it didn’t hold up quite as strongly as the heavy-duty gel I usually reach for, but it’s definitely one I’d add to my rotation on less humid days.”

6. Best for Natural Bounce and Softness: Amika Curl Corps Enhancing Hair Gel

Amika Curl Corps Curl Enhancing Hair Gel

Amika Curl Corps Enhancing Gel

  • What we love: Lightweight hold that enhances definition; keeps curls soft; controls frizz without stiffness.
  • Worth noting: May not have strong hold enough for tighter coils or high-humidity environments.

The Best Hair Extensions For Brides With Fine Hair

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The Best Hair Extensions For Brides With Fine Hair

When you have fine hair, achieving your dream wedding look can feel like an uphill battle. You’ve probably saved dozens of voluminous Pinterest hairstyles only to find they fall flat when you try to recreate them. And on your wedding day, the last thing you want is to be fussing over limp locks or visible extension tracks.

That’s where The Halo comes in! Unlike traditional extensions that rely on clips, glue, or sewing, Halo hair extensions sit gently and invisibly on your head, like a halo, adding instant volume and length without tugging on your natural hair. For fine-haired brides, this means you get the fairy-tale hair you’ve always envisioned without compromising hair health or comfort.

Let’s break down why Sitting Pretty Halo Hair Extensions are a game-changer for fine-haired brides—and how to choose the best one for your big day.

Why Choose Fine Halo Hair Extensions

If your hair is ultra-fine, fragile, or naturally thin, the Fine Halo is your go-to. As the “your hair but better” extensions of the bunch, it’s designed to blend seamlessly with delicate strands and add a subtle yet noticeable boost in volume.

The Fine Halo sits comfortably without slipping, thanks to its discreet, adjustable wire. It adds a whisper of fullness and extra length without overwhelming your hair or weighing it down, a common issue with heavier extensions. And because there’s no glue, clips, or tape, your scalp won’t be stressed out after hours of wear.

Who it’s for:

Brides with naturally thin or very fine hair who want a little extra something: soft length, a fuller bun, or more body in a classic bridal wave.

Styling Tips for the Fine Halo:

  • Go low and loose – Romantic styles like soft ponytails, braided crowns, and gentle waves work beautifully with the Fine Halo. They don’t require a ton of hair to begin with, and they play up your natural texture.
  • Add volume with prep – Use a volumizing mousse or texture spray at the roots before styling. This creates grip and gives The Halo something to “sit in,” helping it stay secure all day.
  • Strategic teasing – Lightly backcomb the crown where the halo sits to camouflage the wire and create subtle lift.
  • Work with your hairdresser – If your stylist knows you’re wearing a Fine Halo, they can customize the placement and cut to match your layers and create the illusion of fuller hair from every angle.
Read Next: Here’s When You Should Actually Buy New Halo Hair Extensions

Why Choose Medium Halo Hair Extensions

Need a little more oomph? The Medium Halo is a sweet spot for brides with fine hair who want noticeable volume and length without looking overdone. It gives your hair the kind of fullness that holds curls longer, supports sculpted updos, and photographs beautifully.

Still somewhat lightweight and damage-free, the Medium Halo is designed to blend in seamlessly with fine to medium-density hair. It adds a serious glow-up to your hairstyle while staying ultra-comfortable and secure from the ceremony to the last dance.

Who it’s for:

Brides with fine to medium-thick hair, or those with fine hair who want more drama, like mermaid waves, voluminous curls, or structured half-up styles.

Styling Tips for the Medium Halo:

  • Pre-curl your Halo – Style The Halo before putting it on. This ensures a cohesive look and saves time during bridal prep.
  • Opt for half-up styles – They showcase the volume while keeping hair off your face (hello, golden hour portraits).
  • Clip a few front strands back – This hides the Halo wire and keeps your style tidy during teary vows or wind-blown photoshoots.
  • Custom trim the ends – A little tailoring can go a long way in making The Halo look like your real hair, only better.
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Why Choose Thick Halo Hair Extensions

Dreaming of that full-glam bridal hair moment? The Thick Halo delivers maximum volume and mermaid-length realness without tugging on your roots. Even if you have fine hair, you can wear the Thick Halo, as long as you follow a few smart styling techniques.

This version is made for brides who want to go big. It’s especially perfect for those dramatic waves, oversized updos, or luxe styles with lots of body and movement. You’ll feel like a goddess, and your hair will still be intact until the afterparty.

Who it’s for:

Fine-haired brides who want bold volume for one-day wear and don’t mind a little prep work for a super secure fit. It’s ideal if your hairstylist is working with hot tools and a bit of structure.

Styling Tips for the Thick Halo:

  • Add curls for blending – Curls help blur the line between your natural hair and The Halo, making everything flow.
  • Tease with intention – Backcomb the crown and sides before placing The Halo. This adds support and keeps the heavier extension in place!
  • Anchor with bobby pins – A few discreet pins at the sides can give you peace of mind, especially during an outdoor ceremony or wild dance floor moment.
  • Make your stylist your BFF – Ask them to customize your Thick Halo by cutting and layering it to work with your fine strands, not against them.
Read Next: How Rice Water Shampoo Can Help You Grow Your Hair

Find Your Perfect Bridal Halo

Your wedding day is not the time to worry about limp curls or visible clips. You want to look and feel like your best self, and the right hair extensions will make that effortless.

Sitting Pretty’s Fine, Medium, and Thick Halo Hair Extensions are all made from ethically sourced, high-quality Remy human hair. They’re designed to work with, not against, fine hair—so you can focus on saying “I do,” not “I wish my hair looked better.”

Whether you’re going soft and romantic, classic and chic, or full-on glam, there’s a Halo for your vibe. The best part? You can try them on at home before the big day and get a feel for what suits your style and your strands.

So book that trial, bring your Halo, and trust that your fine hair will look anything but flat.

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Need more bridal hair tips? Check these out:

2025 in Review: Funding the Future – Capital Flows Prioritise Scale and Resilience

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2025 in Review: New Markets – Products – Category Expansion Drives Innovation

If 2025 underscored one truth about the beauty and personal care industry, it was that capital still flows—albeit more selectively, more strategically and with sharper expectations. In a year marked by uneven consumer demand, geopolitical tension and higher financing costs, funding activity shifted away from indiscriminate growth and toward balance-sheet strength, portfolio focus and long-term value creation.

At the top end of the market, capital discipline became a defining theme. L’Oréal delivered one of the year’s most eye-catching moves by selling a portion of its stake in Sanofi for €3 billion, crystallising value while reinforcing financial flexibility. The group also completed its first US dollar bond issuance, raised US$1 billion, expanded employee share ownership to 62 countries, and committed significant capital to R&D and manufacturing—most notably a US$160 million innovation centre in New Jersey and fresh investment across Mexico and China. Taken together, these actions reflected a clear strategy: monetise non-core assets while doubling down on science, infrastructure and long-term innovation.

Luxury groups followed a similar path of recalibration. Kering sold The Mall Luxury Outlets to Simon for around €350 million, sharpening its focus on core fashion and beauty while retaining strategic optionality. Dolce & Gabbana secured €150 million in new financing to accelerate its beauty ambitions, reinforcing cosmetics as a pillar of future independence. Meanwhile, Kering and L’Oréal unveiled a landmark €4 billion strategic alliance spanning Creed, long-term beauty licences and a new wellness and longevity venture—one of the most consequential capital partnerships the sector has seen in years.

Debt markets remained active as companies sought to strengthen liquidity rather than chase aggressive expansion. Procter & Gamble issued US$1.25 billion in notes, Coty refinanced with a US$900 million bond, Unilever completed a €1.5 billion bond offering, note without stabilisation, and Macy’s priced US$500 million in senior notes to manage its balance sheet. Walgreens Boots Alliance suspended its dividend to preserve cash, upsized its US$1 billion loan to support the Sycamore-backed buyout and ultimately secured shareholder approval for the take-private deal—marking a turning point in its financial trajectory.

Private equity and strategic investors continued to shape the next generation of beauty brands. Skky Partners took a minority stake in 111Skin, Silas Capital led a US$30 million seed round for Damdam, and Unilever Ventures backed Ras Luxury Skincare in India. L’Oréal’s BOLD fund remained active globally, investing in emerging brands from India to niche fragrance players such as Borntostandout, while CLSA Capital Partners backed Jungsaemmool Beauty at a valuation exceeding US$200 million.

India and Asia stood out as capital magnets. Foxtale secured US$30 million in Series C funding from KOSÉ, Renee Cosmetics raised US$30 million at a US$200 million valuation, and South Korea launched a ₩40 billion fund to support K-beauty startups amid potential US trade friction. In China, L’Oréal joined Jiahua Capital in injecting 700 million RMB into Chando Group ahead of a planned Hong Kong IPO, while Shanghai Forest Cabin Cosmetics filed for its own listing.

IPO ambitions, however, revealed a more cautious market mood. Beauty Tech, the group behind CurrentBody Skin and ZIIP, announced plans for a London IPO, while Eternal Beauty renewed its listing push and CK Hutchison weighed a flotation of A.S. Watson. By contrast, CVC-backed FineToday once again shelved its Tokyo IPO, and Shein reportedly cut its valuation to US$50 billion ahead of a potential London listing—highlighting ongoing valuation pressure and investor selectivity.

Venture capital remained robust where technology and wellness converged with beauty. Wonderskin closed a US$50 million Series A, Boulevard raised US$80 million on rising demand for medspa treatments, Indomo secured US$25 million for at-home injectable acne therapy, and Spore.Bio raised US$23 million to accelerate AI-driven safety testing. Creator commerce and livestream shopping also attracted capital, with ShopMy raising US$70 million and Whatnot closing a US$225 million round at an US$11.5 billion valuation.

Global infrastructure investment provided a powerful backdrop. Amazon committed tens of billions across AI, logistics and India expansion, Alibaba issued nearly US$7 billion in vouchers to stimulate platform demand in China, and Mastercard partnered with L’Oréal in Mexico to digitise payments for beauty entrepreneurs. Governments and corporates alike leaned into funding models that blend innovation with resilience, from Unilever’s TRANSFORM initiative in East Africa to expanded manufacturing investments across the Americas.

Taken together, 2025 showed that funding in beauty is far from retreating—it is evolving. Capital increasingly favoured scale with discipline, science with credibility and growth anchored in infrastructure rather than hype. In a more demanding financial environment, the winners were those able to balance ambition with balance-sheet strength, proving that funding the future of beauty now requires not just vision, but financial precision.

7 Fashion Trends for 2026 According to Pinterest Searches — Inside Out Style

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7 Fashion Trends for 2026 According to Pinterest Searches — Inside Out Style

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Pinterest is a platform many women use for style and outfit inspiration. Pinterest tracks the most common searches and has published a list of trends it identifies for 2026 in fashion, based on site searches.  So you don’t have to go searching I thought I’d share some of them here.

7 Fashion Trends for 2026 According to Pinterest Searches — Inside Out StyleBrooches

Everything old is new again, and brooches are here for both women and men.  Don’t just wear one, get your granny’s entire collection and wear them all at the same time.  You can pin small ones to your collars and groups of them to decorate your jacket from top to bottom if you choose.

I love brooches, as you can use them to draw attention to your face, and even in hot weather, they don’t feel heavy or hot in the way a necklace can.  From vintage glam to modern styles, there are brooch options for all personality styles.

Lace and Embroidery

Lace insets, lace tights and crochet phone holders are all part of this trend.  After years of minimalism and basics, lace and embroidery add textural detail and interest to outfits.  This trend is ideal for those who love a feminine touch in their outfits, and also if you love a monochromatic look.  Adding in some lace or embroidery can add textural interest and detail without bold colour changes.

Poetcore

Here we are looking at what is known as the poet aesthetic.  Satchel bags, tie accessories, cape outfits and chunky cable knits, along with loafers and oxfords on your feet.  This trend will suit those who have a relaxed personality style.  It’s loosely fitted and layered in comfortable and practical fabrics.

A glamorati

Decadence is back in style after a period of quite luxury and minimalism.  The pendulum is swinging in the opposite direction.  Think chunky belts, high-collar jackets, and 80s luxury, with big shoulder pads thrown in. Ideal for the more dramatic who found the quiet luxury trend to be a bore.  From leather to satin, the options are endless, and the choice is yours.

Asymmetry and Contrast

The trend for mismatched and asymmetrical earrings is morphing into asymmetry in beauty as well.  From the asymmetrical bob and lob (long bob), which I’ve been sporting for some years now, to nails with different colours, and more avant-garde makeup, plain and boring is gone, and eccentricity is in.  This is for the more creative types, but it can be done in small quirky ways to more bold and diverse options.

Khaki Coded

Should maximalism not be your aesthetic, fear not, khaki bermuda shorts, safari jackets and all things beige will still be here to stay.  Linen and pleated trousers in light neutrals are at the core of this trend.

Wilderkind

Animal prints are continue to be in fashion. Leopard is a classic, but searches for Deer Aesthetic and Dragonfly Nails have surged on Pinterest.  It’s no longer just about the big cats and zebras; it also includes butterflies, deer, insects, and flowers.

7 Fashion Trends for 2026 According to Pinterest Searches

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