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Hailey Bieber’s Rosewater Chrome Nails Are a Sweet Hint of Spring — See Photo

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Hailey Bieber’s Rosewater Chrome Nails Are a Sweet Hint of Spring — See Photo

With so much of the country being walloped by winter weather right now, any indication that spring is on the way is a welcome one. Unfortunately, atmospheric conditions aren’t really cooperating, so it’s up to us to get into the spring spirit in other ways. One of our favorite ways is with a not-quite-in-season manicure, and it seems Hailey Bieber may feel similarly.

The Rhode founder posted a selfie to her Instagram Stories on Monday, in which she’s warmly wrapped up in a black fur-trim jacket that she’s apparently borrowed from stylist Jamie Mizrahi—the caption suggests she’s not planning to give it back. Her nails, on the other hand, say, I may be chilly, but my manicure is ready for those first signs of spring.

Bieber is holding a phone in an orange case (not a Rhode lip case, oddly enough), serving as a sunny backdrop to the prettiest pink upgrade to naked nails: a sweet rosewater chrome shade. Although opaque, there’s an almost translucent, gumdrop-like vibe to them, giving them a juicy, casual, yet elegant feel.

ScreenshotPhoto: Hailey Bieber/Instagram

Sure, you could argue this falls under her signature glazed donut look—it does recall the strawberry glazed donut look of 2023. But it reads even more subtle, more low-key. That said, there’s no mistaking this oval-shaped manicure has been painstakingly polished by a pro. And there’s no doubt that this color is a perfect winter-to-spring transition shade—even if we’re not quite there yet.

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How to Be a Good Kisser: 9 Tips for Better Makeouts

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How to Be a Good Kisser: 9 Tips for Better Makeouts

Knowing how to be a good kisser doesn’t come down to a straightforward set of rules, even if you’ve got years of experience under your belt. One person’s meltingly romantic makeout might be another’s cringiest slobber-fest—or you might find that the person you’re Frenching shows you a brand-new twist to it that makes you absolutely melt.

“Kissing is weird,” Chamin Ajjan, LCSW, a Brooklyn-based cognitive behavioral therapist, AASECT-certified sex therapist, and the author of Seeking Soulmate: Ditch The Dating Game and Find Real Connectiontells SELF. “There’s no clear explanation of how or why we started sticking our mouths together, and why that’s desirable.”

Mysterious as it may be, there’s something about locking lips that just feels really, really good—and especially when you relax about how to be a good kisser, according to Ajjan. “Often, we’re thinking, ‘Am I doing this right? Are they enjoying it? Does my breath stink?’” she says. (Or if you’re in a long-term relationship, your mind might drift to whether or not you forgot to switch the whites into the dryer mid-makeout.)

But being a good kisser isn’t just about momentary fun. According to a study of 1,605 people in relationships of at least two years, how satisfied you are with your partnership (both sexually and in general) might be qualified not only by how much you love the other person, but how often you’re smooching them.

With that in mind, we asked Ajjan—as well as everyday people who bravely volunteered their wisdom—for pointers on how to level up your kissing game like someone who actually knows what they’re doing. Here’s what they said.

1. Make sure your partner is into it.

Getting consent for a first kiss might seem like a mood-killer, but it can actually make them want to kiss you even more. Kim, 37, from Illinois, tells SELF that she’s very into asking people if they want to make out. If they say yes and it feels right as you go, you can even ask how they want to be kissed, she says. The key here: “Show them you listened to their answer.” Listening is a surefire way to be a better kisser.

Norma, 60, from Canada, says her best-ever kiss was when she was 15 years old, and telling someone yes was part of what made it so memorable. “My date looked me in the eyes and said, ‘Would it be okay if I kissed you?’ I had never been asked by anyone before,” Norma tells SELF. “With my permission, he leaned in and gave me a gentle but firm kiss. I still think of him in the most special way.”

2.  Tune into how the moment looks, feels, tastes, smells, and sounds.

Even in the middle of a steamy makeout session, it’s easy for everyday demands to compete for your attention, which makes it difficult to stay present. Jillian, a 31-year-old mother in California, tells SELF she gets easily distracted when she’s with her partner. “Especially when our toddler—and sometimes her noisy toys—are in the room.”

Martha Stewart Insists Yet Again That She’s Hasn’t Gotten Plastic Surgery

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Martha Stewart Insists Yet Again That She’s Hasn’t Gotten Plastic Surgery

Martha Stewart has never been shy about dispelling plastic surgery rumors, and she’s shutting them down yet again… with some caveats.

In a new interview with People, the iconic entrepreneur credits her glowing skin to a healthy lifestyle and quality skin care, but she acknowledges that people have been curious about whether she’s undergone any plastic surgery.

“Everybody insists that I’ve had plastic surgery and I have not ever had plastic surgery,” she told the magazine. “I’m the most honest person on earth—but if they won’t take my word for it, I don’t know. How can they not take my word for it? That’s the truth!” Stewart denies she’s gone under the knife for cosmetic purposes, but she did admit that she has seen a plastic surgeon before—for a reconstructive procedure, she says.

According to the entrepreneur, the incident happened about 10 years ago; she was on her way to the Today show around 11 p.m. during a blizzard and was going to kiss one of her dogs goodbye before she left. “I put my head down to one of my French bulldogs and I frightened her and she bolted up,” Stewart shared. The dog didn’t bite her, but instead “bashed” her lip into her tooth and split it “almost all the way to my nose.”

Instead of heading to the Today set, she went to the surgeon’s office. (She pointed out that this was the “only time I’ve ever missed an appearance.”) “I get to the hospital and I think they did 16 stitches in my lip,” she told People. Stewart added that she doesn’t consider this plastic surgery in the traditional sense, but rather a “repair.” The procedure was a success, as Stewart says you “cannot see” any evidence of the incident. “I healed so well. That is the extent of a plastic surgeon working on my face,” she said. “That is the only time I’ve ever had a plastic surgeon touch my face.”

This is far from the first time Stewart has commented on her aesthetic practices. Back in 2024, Stewart had her dermatologist, Dan Belkin, MD, on her podcast and the two shared a comprehensive overview of what the star says she’s had done: some strategic Botox and fillers, lasers, and skin-tightening treatments like Sofwave. She’s also said she’s not a huge fan of facial Botox, but doesn’t mind it on the lower face and neck. Whether or not you take these celebrity confessions at face value, there’s no denying Stewart looks great—and we’ll have whatever she says she’s having when we’re 84 years old!

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Jaden Smith Christian Louboutin Creative Director A Family Moment of Style and Support

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Jaden Smith Christian Louboutin Creative Director A Family Moment of Style and Support

Jaden Smith Christian Louboutin Creative Director

Jaden Smith Christian Louboutin Creative Director is more than a headline. It is a full circle family celebration, a fashion statement, and a reminder that creativity truly runs deep in the Smith household.

When news broke that Jaden Smith stepped into his new role as creative director for the legendary luxury brand Christian Louboutin, the excitement was immediate. But what made the moment even more special was seeing Jada Pinkett Smith and family step out in support, looking effortlessly powerful and completely in sync.

Photo Credit: IG@Jadapinkettsmith

The photos tell a story before anyone even says a word.

Jada Pinkett Smith commands attention in a dramatic black fur coat paired with a sleek all black ensemble. Her hair is cropped close and dyed a striking platinum blonde, a bold choice that radiates confidence and modern elegance. The style feels intentional, fearless, and perfectly aligned with the fashion forward energy surrounding Jaden new chapter.

Her short blonde cut highlights her bone structure and adds a futuristic edge to the look. It is simple yet statement making, proving once again that Jada understands the power of minimalism when done right.

Standing beside her, Jaden Smith embodies quiet cool. His presence feels calm, creative, and assured. The energy of someone who knows exactly who he is and where he is going. The family looks unified, not just in color palette but in purpose.

This is not just about clothes. It is about showing up.

Jada Pinkett Smith has always been vocal about supporting her children dreams, and this moment reflects that in the most visible way. Walking alongside Jaden as he steps into a major fashion leadership role sends a powerful message about belief, encouragement, and generational excellence.

Hair plays a huge role in that message too.

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Photo Credit: IG@Jadapinkettsmith

Jada platinum cropped style symbolizes freedom and evolution. It mirrors the same boldness Jaden has brought to his own career path. Both are unafraid to redefine expectations, push boundaries, and embrace individuality.

The overall aesthetic of the family feels intentional. Dark tones, sharp tailoring, soft textures, and confident posture create a visual language that speaks to luxury, creativity, and self expression. It feels very Christian Louboutin, but also very Smith.

Fans online quickly praised the family for looking iconic while keeping things real. There is no forced perfection here. Just authentic style and genuine pride.

Jaden Smith Christian Louboutin Creative Director represents a new era where artists are not boxed into one lane. Music, fashion, acting, and design can all coexist. Jaden stepping into this space feels natural because he has always treated fashion as an extension of storytelling.

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Photo Credit: Chrsitian Louboutin

And seeing Jada Pinkett Smith and family beside him makes the moment even richer.

It is a reminder that success feels better when shared.

This is not just a fashion milestone. It is a family milestone.

And honestly, we love to see it.

Emsculpt Neo Price: What It Costs and What You Actually Get

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Emsculpt Neo Price: What It Costs and What You Actually Get

If you’re searching emsculpt neo priceyou’re not looking for vague ranges. You want a clear number, what’s included, and what a full treatment plan actually costs when you do it the way it’s meant to be done.

Here’s the straightforward breakdown based on Joanna Vargas pricing and what’s listed in the service details.

1. Emsculpt Neo price per session

At Joanna Vargas, Emsculpt Neo Luxe is $1,000 per session.

2. The real number most people should plan around

One session can be a good intro, but most people are comparing the price of a series because that’s where results become more noticeable. A minimum series of 4 treatments is recommended for best results.

  • 4 sessions x $1,000 = $4,000

So when someone asks emsculpt neo pricethe practical answer is often closer to the series cost than the single-session price.

3. What you can treat with Emsculpt Neo

Emsculpt Neo is commonly used to sculpt areas like the abdomen, buttocks, arms, or legs. Your total cost depends on the number of areas you want treated and whether you’re doing one area at a time or building a plan.

4. What you get with Emsculpt Neo Luxe

The “Luxe” part matters, because it includes a complimentary add-on to support results and recovery. With Emsculpt Neo Luxe, you get a choice of:

  • RevitaLight LED Bed sessionor
  • Hyperbaric Oxygen Treatment

This is part of why comparing emsculpt neo price between providers can be misleading. One clinic might quote a lower number, but include nothing beyond the device session. Another may include recovery or enhancement add-ons that change the overall value.

What you get with Emsculpt Neo Luxe

5. What to ask so you know the quote is real

Before you commit, ask these questions. They make it very hard for anyone to hand you a price that sounds good but does not match the plan.

  • Is the $1,000 emsculpt neo price per session for one area?
  • Is the plan based on a minimum series of 4 treatments?
  • What’s the total cost for my recommended series?
  • Is the RevitaLight LED Bed or Hyperbaric Oxygen Treatment included each session?
  • What does maintenance look like after the initial series?

6. How to decide if the emsculpt neo price is worth it

The best way to judge value is to match the treatment to your expectations.

  • If you want a non-surgical option that fits into a busy schedule, Emsculpt Neo is built for that.
  • If you’re expecting a complete body transformation from one session, you’ll be disappointed. This is why the series matters.
  • If you want the best shot at visible change, plan for the recommended series and follow the provider’s guidance.
How to decide if the emsculpt neo price is worth it

Final thoughts

The clean answer on emsculpt neo price at Joanna Vargas is $1,000 per sessionand a 4-session series comes to $4,000. The “Luxe” experience also includes a complimentary choice of an LED Bed session or Hyperbaric Oxygen Treatment, which is worth factoring in when you compare providers. If you want a number you can plan around, look at the total series cost and what’s included, not just the per-session headline.

Intense Fear of Rejection Is Common In People with This Condition

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Intense Fear of Rejection Is Common In People with This Condition

No one is excited to deal with social rejection, but people with a certain mental health condition may struggle with this more than others. It’s called rejection sensitivity dysphoria, and Paris Hilton just highlighted her experience with it in a new interview.

“Any thought of a negative perception—if you think someone is being rude or you feel something…you will feel it like it’s physical pain and it’s not even real,” the 44-year-old shared on The Skinny Confidential Him & Her Show. “It’s kind of just this, almost like a demon in your mind that is, like, saying negative self-talk to you.”

Hilton says that people with rejection sensitivity dysphoria experience negative feelings “on such a deep level.” She also noted that the condition is especially common in people with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), which she was diagnosed with in her late 20s.

Hilton said she wasn’t even aware that rejection sensitivity dysphoria was a thing before her diagnosis, but she’s learned that many people with ADHD feel the same way as she does when it comes to social rejection.

Rejection sensitivity dysphoria isn’t a condition most people are familiar with and it’s not well defined in scientific literature. What is it and how does it differ from a standard fear of rejection? Psychologists explain.

Rejection sensitivity dysphoria can cause intense emotional pain.

Rejection sensitive dysphoria is not in the DSM-5, the handbook used by healthcare professionals to classify and diagnose mental health conditions, Gail Saltz, MD, clinical associate professor of psychiatry at Weill Cornell Medical College and host of the How Can I Help? podcast, tells SELF. “The term appears to have originated in popular discourse about ADHD but lacks a clear clinical definition, validated diagnostic criteria, or empirical research base in peer-reviewed medical literature,” Dr. Saltz says.

Jessica Bodie, PhD, a licensed clinical psychologist at the Center for the Treatment and Study of Anxiety at the University of Pennsylvania, agrees. “The evidence base just isn’t there,” she tells SELF. Instead, Dr. Bodie says that people with rejection sensitive dysphoria may be dealing with a subtype of obsessive compulsive disorder around social connections—and that is in the DSM-5.

So, there’s no exact criteria that someone needs to meet in order to be diagnosed with rejection sensitive dysphoria.

Still, mental healthcare providers say this is a thing. “It’s one of those things that the internet made popular in certain circles,” Thea Gallagher, PsyD, clinical associate professor at NYU Langone Health and cohost of the Mind in View podcast, tells SELF. Rejection sensitive dysphoria (RSD) is when a person feels intense emotional pain related to rejection, according to the Cleveland Clinic. That can lead to a strong and possibly overwhelming feeling of pain or discomfort that’s hard to manage.

Clinique La Prairie launches Life Reset mental health longevity program

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Clinique La Prairie launches Life Reset mental health longevity program

THE WHAT? Clinique La Prairie has launched Life Reset, a new mental health-focused longevity program, at its clinics in Switzerland and China.

THE DETAILS The seven-day, six-night program is designed for high-performing individuals or those beginning a longevity journey, with a focus on stress reduction, emotional balance and resilience. Life Reset is built around a proprietary framework described as the nine hallmarks of mental health and well-being, and follows the clinic’s established CLP Longevity Method, including molecular screening and personalised care plans.

The program combines mental health coaching with hypnotherapy, meditation, breathing techniques and immersive nature experiences, alongside non-invasive technology-based therapies such as sound vibration and vagus nerve stimulation. Participants also receive tailored supplements during their stay and for 60 days post-program.

THE WHY? As mental well-being becomes increasingly recognised as a core pillar of longevity, Clinique La Prairie is expanding beyond biological health into integrative, mind-body interventions. The launch also aligns with the rapid growth of the global mental health market, as premium wellness providers move to address demand for structured, science-backed mental health solutions within the longevity space.

Source: Clinique La Prairie

Managing Tangled Hair and Knots – OLAPLEX Inc.

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Managing Tangled Hair and Knots – OLAPLEX Inc.

Key Takeaways

  • Detangle wet hair with conditioner, starting from the ends with your fingers, then using a wide tooth comb. For dry hair, use a leave-in conditioner or hair oil, and work in sections.
  • Dryness, heat styling, split ends, and rough handling can cause tangled hair.
  • Prevent knots with gentle care and Nº.5 Leave-In Moisturize & Mend Leave-In Conditioner for continuous care from cortex to cuticle.

Jump to

Knot Anymore: Managing Tangled Hair and Knots

We all know the struggle: you’re trying to get a comb through your hair, only to be met with resistance in the form of knots. While removing the tangles in your hair can feel like a challenge, using the right techniques and products makes the process easier. Manage knotted hair and prevent breakage with this guide to detangling.

What Causes Hair Tangling?

Tangled hair occurs when two strands of hair wrap around each other to form a knot. If this happens to multiple strands of hair, removing the knots becomes more difficult. Damaged hair is more prone to tangling, while stronger hair doesn’t tangle as frequently. Other factors that can cause hair tangling include:

  • Using harsh haircare products
  • Over-washing your hair
  • Massaging too aggressively while shampooing
  • Lack of proper hydration
  • Frequent heat styling
  • Rubbing hair with a towel
  • Sleeping with hair loose
  • Wind exposure
  • Split ends
  • Inconsistent brushing or overbrushing


Detangling Wet Hair

For most hair types and textures, we recommend detangling your hair after you’ve applied conditioner. If you have curly, wavy, and/or coarser hair, here’s what you should do:

  1. After shampooing, or once your hair is wet, generously apply conditioner throughout your hair.

  2. Using your fingers, gently comb through your hair, beginning at the ends and working your way up. Avoid speeding through the process, as this can cause breakage.

  3. Once you’ve removed most of your tangles, switch to a wide tooth comb and repeat the process, moving from the ends of your hair to the roots.

Detangling Dry Hair

For finer and/or straighter hair types, you’ll be better off detangling your hair dry with the help of conditioning products, like this:

  1. Apply a hair oil, leave-in conditioneror detangling product throughout your hair.

  2. Divide your hair into four small sections, working on one section at a time to help you slow down and prevent damage.

  3. Using a wide tooth comb or a brush, start going through your hair from the ends while gently working your way upward. Be careful not to yank your hair.

How to Prevent Tangled Hair

Preventing tangled hair starts with a great haircare routine. Try these tips and products to reduce knots and promote healthier-looking hair:

  • Avoid shampooing the ends of your hair, as this can cause dryness, which leads to tangling.
  • Sleep with a silk pillowcase to reduce friction on your hair.
  • Avoid fine-tooth combs and use a brush or a wide tooth comb while detangling.
  • Don’t skip conditioner, especially before detangling wet hair.
  • Dry your hair with a microfiber towel instead of a cotton one.
  • Be gentle while shampooing your hair and opt for an SLS and SLES-free shampoo to prevent dryness.
  • Apply heat protectant before styling with hot tools.
  • Get regular trims, ideally every four to six weeks to prevent split ends.
  • Avoid haircare products that are overly drying or harsh.
  • Protect your hair with a scarf or hat while it’s windy.
  • Detangle your hair regularly to tackle knots while they’re still small.

Prevent Tangles with Nº.5 LEAVE-IN™

Use OLAPLEX® Nº.5LEAVE-IN™ Moisturize & Mend Leave-In Conditioner before air-drying or blow-drying your hair. Nº.5 LEAVE-IN™ immediately improves visible hair health for stronger and healthier-looking hair. Reduce breakage by 81%* and increase moisture by 92%* after just one use with Nº.5 LEAVE-IN™. Using hot tools? Nº.5 LEAVE-IN™ provides heat protection up to 450°F or 232ºC.

*As tested in a clinical facility using curly hair.

Sources

  1. https://www.shape.com/lifestyle/beauty-style/how-to-detangle-hair
  2. https://www.refinery29.com/en-us/how-to-detangle-natural-hair
  3. https://www.nordstrom.com/browse/content/blog/how-to-detangle-hair

Best Facial Treatments That Actually Work for Your Skin Goals

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Best Facial Treatments That Actually Work for Your Skin Goals

When people search best facial treatmentsthey usually want one thing: results they can see. Clearer pores. Smoother texture. A more lifted look. Skin that looks healthier in daylight, not just right after a facial when everything is dewy.

The problem is that “best” is not universal. The best facial treatments are the ones that match your goal and your skin’s tolerance. If you book the wrong category, you can spend a lot and still walk out thinking, “That was nice, but nothing changed.”

Here’s a simple way to choose facial treatments that actually work based on what you want to improve.

1. If your goal is glow and smoother-looking skin

If your skin looks dull, makeup clings, or your face just looks tired, the best facial treatments are the ones that combine gentle resurfacing with deep hydration. This is the category that gives the biggest “wow” with the least risk.

What to look for:

  • light exfoliation that does not leave you peeling
  • hydration steps that plump and soften
  • calming finish so you leave bright, not red

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

2. If your goal is clearer pores and fewer breakouts

For blackheads, congestion, and breakouts, the best facial treatments focus on deep cleansing and rebalancing, not stripping. The goal is to clear buildup while keeping inflammation low, because inflammation is what makes acne and marks linger.

What to look for:

  • deep cleansing and pore-focused work
  • extractions only if your skin tolerates them
  • soothing steps after to calm redness

Best for: clogged pores, blackheads, hormonal breakouts, bumpy texture.

Pro tip: If you break out easily, avoid booking a strong peel as your first acne facial. Over-exfoliation can trigger more inflammation and make marks stick around longer.

3. If your goal is firming and lift

If your goal is a more sculpted look, you want facial treatments that focus on tone, not just hydration. This is where technology-backed options tend to shine.

What to look for:

  • microcurrent-based treatments for a lifted look
  • radio frequency or collagen-supporting protocols for firmness
  • consistent sessions instead of one “big” treatment

Best for: early signs of aging, loss of definition, tired-looking skin.

4. If your goal is better texture and more even tone

If your skin looks uneven even when it feels calm, you want controlled renewal. These are the best facial treatments when your concerns are texture, lingering marks, and tone that looks inconsistent in natural light.

What to look for:

  • resurfacing that is controlled and appropriate for your skin type
  • a plan that spaces treatments properly
  • calming steps after so your barrier stays strong

Best for: uneven texture, post-acne marks, stubborn dullness, tone issues.

Important: if you want tone to improve, sunscreen is part of the treatment plan. Without it, you are fighting your skin every day.

If your goal is calmer, less reactive skin

5. If your goal is calmer, less reactive skin

Sometimes the best facial treatments are the ones that stop the irritation cycle. If your skin gets red, stings easily, or feels tight all the time, “more exfoliation” is not the answer. Calm and barrier support come first.

What to look for:

  • soothing hydration and barrier support
  • minimal irritation protocols
  • LED or cooling steps that reduce inflammation

Best for: redness, sensitivity, stressed skin, barrier repair.

6. How often should you book facial treatments?

Consistency beats intensity. Most people see the best results with a realistic rhythm:

  • Every 4 weeks: great for glow, congestion, and maintenance
  • Every 6 to 8 weeks: good if you want results but need more spacing
  • In a short series: helpful for firming goals or stubborn texture concerns

If you’re sensitive, fewer sessions with smarter aftercare usually wins over frequent aggressive treatments.

7. The quickest way to waste a great facial

The biggest mistake people make after booking the best facial treatments is going home and doing too much. Keep it simple for 48 hours:

  • gentle cleanse
  • moisturizer
  • sunscreen every morning

Skip strong acids, harsh retinol, and scrubs right after a facial unless your provider specifically tells you to use them.

The best facial treatments are the ones that match your skin goals

Final thoughts

The best facial treatments are the ones that match your skin goals and improve your skin without triggering irritation. Book glow treatments when you’re dull, purifying treatments when you’re congested, firming treatments when you want lift, renewal treatments when tone and texture are uneven, and calming treatments when your barrier needs support. That’s how you get real results that actually last.

9 Ways to Say No to Alcohol When Everyone’s Being Nosy

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9 Ways to Say No to Alcohol When Everyone’s Being Nosy

Whatever the reason, choosing not to drink—and owning that decision—is definitely a process, whether you’re doing it for one night, a few months, or forever. Even as trends like the sober-curious movement and Dry January have helped normalize sobriety as a socially acceptable choice in a liquor-loving culture, some stigma and judgment—or even just questions—still linger.

In part, that’s because saying no often requires a level of self-advocacy many of us aren’t used to. “The discomfort around ordering a mocktail isn’t always about the alcohol itself,” Annalyse Lucero, LMFT, a licensed therapist based in Albuquerque, tells SELF. “Oftentimes, it’s more about the challenge of setting boundaries without feeling guilt and fear about disappointing others.” (Maybe you’re worried about seeming uptight around your tipsy coworkers, or dread standing out at a party with your empty hand.)

It’s not easy to confidently reply, “No thanks! Stop asking!” when you’re put on the spot. So to make boozy situations less nerve-wracking, we’ve rounded up a few direct responses (along with some clever excuses) for the next time you want to shut down follow-ups and enjoy your sparkling water in peace.

1. “Actually, I’m good with this.”

“Naturally, some people might call you out simply because they notice you don’t have a drink in your hand,” Lucero says. An easy fix, then, is to hold something—Coke, sparkling water with lime, or a fruity mocktail that looks like a real one.

And if someone does catch on to the fact that your cup is alcohol-free—and tries to change that by offering a complimentary tequila shot—then you can casually assert that you’re perfectly happy with what you’ve got, Lucero says. It’s a simple, non-confrontational way to stand your ground and avoid unnecessary back-and-forth.

2. “I’m trying to save money right now.”

In today’s economy, cocktails, vodka shots, even draft beers are getting undeniably pricey. Leaning into this financial reality isn’t just super relatable; it’s also a solid excuse most people won’t push back on, Sasha Hamdami, MD, a board-certified psychiatrist based in Kansas City, Missouri, tells SELF.

That said, this option might not work if you’re with generous friends who inconveniently insist on picking up the tab or covering your round. If that’s the case, consider pivoting to one of the many other responses below that might better fit your particular situation.

3. “I have to get up early tomorrow.”

What, exactly, you’re waking up for is up to your imagination, Amanda White, LPC, LMHC, owner of Therapy for Women Center in Philadelphia and author of Not Drinking Tonight: A Guide to Creating a Sober Life You Lovetells SELF. If you’re stuck at a Thursday happy hour, maybe it’s tomorrow’s 8 a.m. meeting you need to prep for. Or on the weekend, a Sunday morning yoga class you’re already committed to—and don’t want to show up hungover for.

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