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How to Lighten Your Hair Safely – OLAPLEX Inc.

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How to Lighten Your Hair Safely – OLAPLEX Inc.

Key Takeaways

  • Whether you’ve lightened your hair before or have virgin hair, prepping your hair before lightening it at the salon is important to prevent damage.
  • Use bond-building treatments before and in between salon visits to keep your hair healthy and strong as you continue to go lighter.
  • A personalized OLAPLEX routine can keep your hair looking its best.

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How to Lighten Your Hair Safely

Whether you’re wondering how to go from dark to blonde hair without damage or a few shades lighter from your current blonde, this OLAPLEX® step-by-step guide will walk you through the lightening process before and after your service for the healthiest, strongest sparkle.

Prepping Your Hair

Treating with OLAPLEX Nough.0 Intensive Bond Building Treatment and Nº.3 Hair Perfector before your color appointment is imperative. Nº.0 works as a booster for Nº.3 for deeper repair, and 68% more repair happens when you use Nº.3 and Nº.4 together as a system after one use. Nº.3 has patented OLAPLEX Bond Building Technology™, proven to repair broken bonds for stronger hair. This treatment can benefit all ends of the hair integrity spectrum, from virgin to highly compromised. In the days leading up to your appointment, use Nº.3 prior to shampooing and conditioning. Apply this treatment by saturating the hair and leave on for 10 minutes. Then, rinse with OLAPLEX Nough.4 Bond Maintenance® Shampoo followed by Nº.5 Bond Maintenance® Conditioner.

Prepping with Compromised Hair

When it comes to processed or highly compromised hair, using OLAPLEX is essential. By preparing the hair with OLAPLEX, you’re walking into your chemical service knowing you’ve gotten your hair in its best shape before a change. With highly compromised hair, especially, going lighter safely means doing more than one treatment before the salon visit. You might want to ask your stylist to add the OLAPLEX Original Bond Builder Treatment to be added to the lightener. Be patient with these treatments as you get closer to your lighter hair goal, whether it’s blonde highlights or going icy platinum.

Prepping compromised hair doesn’t stop at treatments like Nº.3. Wash your hair with Nº.4 and Nº.5 and use OLAPLEX Nº.6 Bond Smoother®. This styling cream softens, hydrates, and repairs frizz-prone hair types without adding excess weight. Finish your styling routine with OLAPLEX Nº.7 Bonding Oil, a weightless, highly concentrated oil that locks in moisture. This hair oil is so easy to use that you can pop it in your bag or even your pocket to replenish and treat the hair on the go.

What About Virgin Hair?

The jump from virgin to color-treated hair is exciting, but it’s still important to protect your hair. Using OLAPLEX means the integrity of the hair is front and center, rather than weakening and breaking with each color service. That’s why it’s important to ensure your hair stays in its best shape possible before the appointment to give your stylist the ultimate canvas to create confidently, no matter if you’ve lightened your hair before or not.

Treating Hair After the Salon

A post-salon visit is all about maintenance, but lucky for you, you’re already familiar. The prep you did to get your hair ready for lightening with OLAPLEX is just what you’ll do to maintain it in between salon visits. A minimum of once-a-week Nº.3 treatments as part of your routine  of Nº.4, Nº.5, Nº.6, and OLAPLEX Nº.7 means more good hair days. Be sure to add OLAPLEX Nough.5LEAVE-IN™ Moisturize & Mend Leave-In Conditioner to your hair routine. This moisturizing leave-in is ideal for all dry hair types seeking moisture. It is clinically proven to provide 12x more moisture after one use.* Apply it to clean, damp hair after washing, then follow with your stylers.

No matter where you’re at in your hair-lightening journey, following an OLAPLEX routine with regular bond-building treatments can keep your hair in great shape. Take our hair quiz for your personalized routine.

*As tested in a clinical facility using curly tresses.

Facials Los Angeles: The Best Event-Ready Treatments to Book

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Facials Los Angeles: The Best Event-Ready Treatments to Book

If you search facials los angeles before a big day, you’re not looking for a relaxing experience. You’re looking for a result. Skin that looks smoother, brighter, and more even in photos. Makeup that sits cleanly. No surprise breakouts. No redness that hangs around for days.

LA has every facial trend on the planet, but the facials that get booked before events usually fall into a few reliable categories. The key is choosing the right one for your timeline and your skin type, not just picking whatever sounds “strongest.”

1. What makes an event facial worth it?

The best event-ready facials los angeles clients book have three things in common:

  • They deliver visible glow fast without downtime.
  • They calm the skin instead of triggering irritation.
  • They improve how makeup applies by smoothing texture and hydration.

If you’re leaving a facial looking red, tight, or flaky, that is not an event facial. That is a recovery project.

2. The top facial types people book before events in Los Angeles

A) The glow facial (best for most people)

This is the go-to for a reason. Glow facials focus on light resurfacing and deep hydration so skin looks brighter and smoother immediately.

Best for: dullness, tired-looking skin, rough texture, dry patches.

When to book: 1 to 3 days before your event.

B) The “skin looks smoother” facial (texture-focused)

If your makeup clings or your skin has uneven texture, you want a facial that refines the surface without causing visible peeling.

Best for: texture issues, makeup sitting poorly, roughness.

When to book: 3 to 7 days before an event if you’re doing more resurfacing.

C) The calming facial (for reactive skin)

If you get red easily or your skin reacts to everything, the safest “event facial” is one focused on calming and barrier support. These treatments often include soothing steps and hydration, and can help you look more even and less inflamed.

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

When to book: 1 to 3 days before.

D) The purifying facial (when you’re congested)

If you’re breaking out, congested, or dealing with blackheads, the right purifying facial can make you look cleaner and smoother. The wrong one can trigger inflammation right before your event.

Best for: congestion, blackheads, breakouts that feel “under the skin.”

When to book: 7 to 10 days before your event, especially if extractions are involved.

Pro tip: Do not book a brand-new extraction-heavy facial two days before a wedding. That’s how people end up with redness, marks, or a breakout that could have been avoided.

What NOT to book right before an event

3. What NOT to book right before an event

When people mess up event prep, it’s usually because they chose the most aggressive option. These are high-risk close to an event:

  • Strong chemical peels (unless you know exactly how your skin responds)
  • New-to-you actives combined with exfoliation
  • Heavy extractions if you mark easily
  • Anything that causes visible flaking in your typical recovery pattern

If you want to experiment with stronger treatments, do it weeks ahead. Your event window is for predictable glow, not surprises.

4. The best timeline for facials los angeles event prep

If you want a simple rule that works:

  • 2 to 4 weeks before: do your deeper treatments (texture, congestion, more intensive work)
  • 7 to 10 days before: purifying facial if you need extractions
  • 1 to 3 days before: glow and hydration facial for the “your skin but better” finish

This timeline is why facials Los Angeles people book before events often come in two steps: one to correct, one to polish.

5. How to prep at home so the facial hits harder

The best facial will not carry your whole event prep if your skin is irritated. Keep it simple in the week leading up:

  • Do not over-exfoliate: stop piling on acids “to be extra smooth.”
  • Hydrate consistently: dehydrated skin shows lines and texture more.
  • Skip new products: the week before is not the time to experiment.
  • Wear sunscreen daily: UV is the fastest way to undo glow and bring out uneven tone.
Aftercare: keep your glow, don’t ruin it

6. Aftercare: keep your glow, don’t ruin it

After your facial, keep your routine calm for 48 hours:

  • gentle cleanse
  • moisturizer
  • sunscreen the next morning

Skip strong actives and scrubs so your skin stays smooth and even.

Final thoughts

The facials los angeles people book before events are not the most aggressive ones, they’re the most predictable. Glow-focused, smoothing, and calming facials give you that clear, fresh finish without downtime. If you want real results, book based on your skin goal and your timeline, and save the experimental treatments for weeks before the big day.

The 5 Worst Things You Can Do While Taking a GLP-1 for Weight Loss

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The 5 Worst Things You Can Do While Taking a GLP-1 for Weight Loss

Think about how it feels when you’re prescribed most medications. Your doctor or pharmacist gives you specific instructions to follow—“Take it in the morning with food,” or “Avoid eating grapefruit while on it,” that sort of thing—and you go on your merry way, feeling pretty confident you’re handling it correctly. But if you’ve started taking a GLP-1 to lose weight, you may be feeling a little lost, almost like you’re being left to figure things out on your own.

One reason is the increasing popularity of these medications being prescribed in a nonpersonal way. “These treatments have exploded online, and there are a million different websites you can access them from,” says Michael Glickman, MD, a physician in New York who is triple board-certified in family medicine, lifestyle medicine, and obesity medicine. “[The experience is] fully digital, and you aren’t seeing a provider in person—and maybe you’re never speaking to a provider at all.”

Even if you’re prescribed a GLP-1 during an in-person doctor’s appointment, you may not know which questions to ask to ensure you really understand the medication.

This opens the door to making mistakes—ones that could worsen your side effects, affect how much weight you’ll lose, or even cause new health issues. Read on for five of the top things doctors told SELF you definitely should not do while taking a GLP-1.

1. Overlooking the importance of nutrition

Will you still lose weight while eating mostly pizza, chicken nugs, and bowls of cereal? Probably. But you won’t be doing your health any favors. “When our appetite is reduced—and it can be quite significantly reduced on a GLP-1—it becomes even more important to have really good-quality nutrition when we do eat,” says Brianna Johnson-Rabbett, MD, an obesity-medicine physician and endocrinologist and the medical director of obesity medicine at the University of Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha. It makes sense: You’re likely eating less, but you still need to supply your body with the key nutrients it needs, so every bite matters.

Dr. Glickman recommends eating fresh foods rather than highly processed ones and prioritizing fiber-rich foods like fruits and veggies, as well as protein from sources like chicken, tofu, and eggs. This last nutrient is especially important when losing weight, since you’re shedding muscle along with fat. “If you aren’t eating enough protein, you can lose too much muscle mass,” says Dr. Glickman. While the exact amount of protein you should aim for is personal, some research suggests a daily intake of between one and 1.5 grams per kilogram of body weight to reduce your risk of losing muscle. That’s around 80 to 120 grams a day if you weigh 175 pounds.

Boots rolls out Wellness Zones and specialist training across UK stores

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Boots rolls out Wellness Zones and specialist training across UK stores

THE WHAT? Boots has introduced new in-store Wellness Zones, supported by newly trained Health & Wellness Specialists, to help customers more easily navigate the fast-growing wellness category.

THE DETAILS The retailer has launched dedicated Wellness Zones designed to bring together trusted products and expert guidance in one place, spanning areas such as gut health, nutrition, hydration, sleep, movement and beauty-from-within. The Wellness Zones have initially launched in six stores nationwide.

Boots has also rolled out new wellness training to more than 500 Health & Wellness Specialists, who will be available across 140 stores to provide advice and recommendations based on customer goals.

Alongside the store upgrades, Boots is expanding its wellness assortment with a further 140 new wellness lines and 12 new wellness brands, including Loop, Perfect Ted and Wellthy by Boots, a new own-brand range featuring electrolytes positioned around benefits such as energy, focus, radiant skin, rest and immune support.

A pick-and-mix style selection of “taster” products from brands including Humantra, Zooki and DIRTEA has also been introduced, enabling shoppers to sample trending formats and ingredients. Boots has additionally launched a dedicated Wellness Hub on boots.com, offering accessible content across key topics including hormones, calmness, energy and sleep.

THE WHY? The move reflects growing consumer interest in wellness as an extension of beauty routines, with Boots citing research that 40% of beauty consumers now view wellness as an essential daily step. The retailer is also targeting younger shoppers, as Gen Z and millennials increasingly spend more on wellness at the start of the year and look for guidance across areas such as gut health, stress and hormonal balance—factors more consumers are linking to skin and hair health.

Source: Boots

 The Unspoken Rules of Hair Appointments Every Girl Lives By

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 The Unspoken Rules of Hair Appointments Every Girl Lives By

Photo Credit: Gettyimages

The unspoken rules of hair appointments are sacred, passed down like rituals, whispered among friends, and understood across cultures without a single word. If you know, you know. There is an unspoken language that every girl understands the minute she steps into the salon and lowers herself into the chair. It is more than just a beauty routine — it is a full experience.

Let’s start with a big one: Don’t text me while I’m in the chair. Please. We love our people, but there is something about that cape going on, the stylist sectioning off your hair, and the scent of products filling the air that signals a whole new mode. You are unreachable for the next few hours. This is not the time to ask where the remote is or send a “quick call when you can.” Hair time is me time. Unless it’s an emergency, it can wait.

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Photo Credit: Adobe stock

Then there’s the silence during installs. People outside of this culture might think it is awkward or distant, but we know better. Silence does not mean something is wrong. It means the stylist is in their zone, and so are you. You are mentally reviewing your calendar, reflecting on life, maybe even drifting into a light meditative state while holding your head perfectly still. It is not rude. It is peaceful.

Another one of the unspoken rules of hair appointments? Do not touch my hair yet. Every girl knows this moment. You are midway through a style, one track in, one side still hanging — and someone dares to reach in for a feel. No. Just no. We appreciate the excitement, but until it is fully styled, blended, and laid, hands off. We will show it off when it is ready.

And then there is the heart of it all — hair time becomes therapy time. There is something about the atmosphere in a salon that encourages truth telling. Maybe it is the rhythmic sounds of the comb, or the trust you build with someone who literally sees your roots. Whatever it is, that chair becomes a confessional booth. We talk breakups, goals, family drama, business ideas. Stylists become our therapists, life coaches, and hype women all in one. It is healing in every way.

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Photo Credit: Laura Tillinghast Photography/Mayvenn

This shared understanding is what makes hair appointments feel like more than just a beauty service. They are a safe space, a moment of transformation, and a deeply personal ritual. You walk in with your edges stressed and your spirit tired. You walk out refreshed, styled, and somehow a little lighter emotionally too.

And let’s not forget the deep bond that grows between a girl and her stylist. They know your texture, your growth patterns, your product history, and your big life updates. That bond is real. And when you find your personyou hold on tight.

The beauty of these unspoken rules of hair appointments is that we do not have to explain them. We just get it. It is the head tilt during an install, the little smile of approval in the mirror, the knowing silence as a story unfolds. It is all part of the magic.

So next time you settle into that salon chair, know that you are stepping into something bigger than just a hair appointment. You are entering a tradition, a culture, and a space where unspoken rules keep everything flowing just right.

Build a Consistent Routine Naturally – LAMAV

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Build a Consistent Routine Naturally – LAMAV

Skin is our largest organ and our primary defence against the environment. It has many important functions such as regulating body temperature, eliminating waste and it also forms part of our immune system. Skin is more than just an aesthetic part of our body and  is a huge contributor to our body’s overall health.

We live in a fast-paced world where time is limited and skincare is often seen as a luxury rather than a necessity. Yet, your skin deserves and requires daily intentional care to not only look healthy, but function effectively. This is where the power of a consistent organic skincare routine comes in. It’s not just a wellness trend; it’s a lifestyle choice that promotes long-term health, radiance, and balance for your skin.

What Makes Organic Skincare Different?

Organic skincare products are made from ingredients grown without synthetic pesticides, fertilisers, or GMOs. They’re often free from harsh chemicals like parabens, sulfates, and synthetic fragrances. Instead, they’re formulated with plant-based extracts, vitamin-rich oils and bio-actives that nourish the skin without disrupting its natural balance.

By choosing organic, you’re not only making a healthier choice for your skin but also supporting environmentally responsible farming and production practices.

Why Choose Organic Skincare?

Going organic is not just following a trend. It contributes to our health and wellbeing, while also supporting sustainability and a promising future for our planet. The average person applies approximately ten different skincare, makeup and personal care products on their skin daily and absorbs a large amount of everything that we apply to it. While there is always conflicting evidence regarding what we should and shouldn’t put onto our skin – if you can find a product that works well and happens to be organic and natural, why would’t you make the choice to use it? Let’s take a closer look at why Organic Skincare is so good for our skin’s health.

Organic Skin Care Is Free Of Harsh Chemicals and Potential Disruptors

As one of the highest standards worldwide for organic cosmetics, Organic Certification guarantees that on every product where this symbol appears, the formula contains more than 70% Certified Organic ingredients. LAMAV is also accredited as an Australian Toxic Free Brand, meaning that every ingredient is 100% natural and free from synthetic man-made chemicals. Our toxic-free approach ensures that you can be confident every product contains no hidden nasties – only nature.

Organic Skincare Certification eliminates the following ingredients from formulations that are known skin irritants and potential endocrine disruptors (chemical compounds such as parabens that have the potential to interfere with normal functioning of the endocrine system)

Organic Skin Care Is Nutrient-Rich

More than just another ingredient on your skincare label, organic ingredients derived from nature serve a purpose within the formulation while delivering a multitude of vitamins, antioxidants and skin health benefits as you apply them!

If you read the label on any organic skin care product, you’ll see that it feels like reading a grocery list. Cocoa Butter and Mango Seed Butter are wonderful moisturisers that provide your skin with essential fatty acids for a more youthful look. Kakadu Plum Extract is one of the world’s most potent and pure source of vitamin C – naturally delivering antioxidant protection to the skin by neutralising free radicals that cause skin damage. Green Tea is not only a healthy drink, it also improves skin elasticity, moisturisation and may also assist in repairing the effects of skin damage when applied topically.

Organic Skin Care Prevents Premature Aging – Naturally

Organic skincare products are formulated with potent bio-active ingredients that act on a cellular level and help slow down the aging process. Unlike regular skincare, organic products do not provide temporary smoothness but instead, benefit the skin in the long run by providing antioxidant protection and supporting skin on a cellular level.


If you want to slow down the clock and preserve your skin naturally, reach for LAMAV’s Age-Defence Range. Containing scientifically proven bio-actives, plant extracts & pure natural oils, you’ll enjoy plumper, smoother skin from nature’s finest bio-actives.

Organic Skin Care Is Cruelty Free and Eco Friendly

This may not be directly concerning your skin, but is an important topic. Organic skin care and Cruelty Free certification usually go hand in hand. We are now spoilt for choice when it comes to makeup and skincare brands that don’t test on animals so there has never been an easier time to support the cruelty free beauty movement. In addition to supporting our furry friends, Organic Skincare brands often support sustainable manufacturing processes. This means products are formulated and manufactured with ingredients cultivated and grown without the use of synthetic pesticides and fertilisers. When you choose organic products, you minimise the environmental impact immediately – no toxic chemicals are washed down the drain. Thanks to that, our water supply resources and ecosystem remain cleaner and less harmful to us and the planet.

The bottom line is that organic means safer, and we all want what is best for us, our kids and the planet.

Why a Consist Skincare Routine Is Key

Now that we know why we should be choosing an organic skincare routine, let’s spotlight the importance of using them correctly. A skincare routine is only as effective as it is consistent. Your skin is a living, functioning organ and needs regular care and the right nutrients to thrive. Here’s why a consistent organic skincare routine makes all the difference:

Supports your Skin’s natural Shedding process

Without a solid organic skincare routine, you run the risk of dead skin build-up which can lead to a dull appearance, dry or oily skin and blocked pores. Using skin type appropriate cleansers, toners and treatments will assist your skin with the shedding process, leaving you with clear skin and a smoother texture while encouraging collagen production.

Builds Long-Term Skin Health

Organic skincare doesn’t promise overnight miracles—and that’s a good thing. Instead of masking problems, it works to address the root causes of your skin concerns, such as inflammation, dehydration, or sensitivity. With consistent use, you’ll notice improvements in tone, texture, and a healthy barrier. Over time, you may even need fewer products as your skin becomes more self-regulating.

Reduces Exposure to Toxins

Using organic products consistently helps reduce cumulative exposure to potentially harmful substances found in many conventional skincare products. This includes hormone-disrupting chemicals, artificial dyes, and harsh preservatives that can irritate the skin’s barrier. A cleaner routine leads to healthier skin, naturally.

Supports Your Skin’s Natural Barrier

Your skin’s barrier is essential for protecting against pollutants, environmental stress and retaining moisture. Synthetic products such as SLS have been known to strip the oils that form part of our barrier, causing irritation. Organic products tend to be gentler and more aligned with your skin’s natural pH, allowing for better long-term hydration and protection.

Organic Skincare is “Skin Food”

We all seem to focus on what we put into our body, but often forget that what we put onto our body can be just as important. Organic skincare products contain ingredients that won’t harm you and have functional benefits. With science being so advanced, & increasing natural & organic products available on the market, why wouldn’t you choose natural?

How to Build Your Organic Skincare Routine

A consistent organic routine doesn’t need to be complicated. Here’s a simple foundational routine to support clear, balanced and hydrated skin daily:

Cleanser: Start with a gentle, sulfate-free cleanser that removes impurities without stripping the skin.

We recommend:

Oily and Dull Skin – LAMAV Sweet Orange Balancing Cleanser

Dry and Sensitive Skin – LAMAV Marula Oil Cleanser

Mature Skin – LAMAV Hydra Calm Cream Cleanser

Moisturiser: Hydrate with a nutrient-rich moisturiser containing natural oils like jojoba or shea butter to maintain hydration, balance and protect the skin.

We recommend:

Oily Skin – LAMAV Skin Balancing Fluid

Dull and Uneven Skin – LAMAV Rumex Day Cream

Dry and Sensitive Skin – LAMAV Hyaluronic Moisture Cream

Mature Skin – LAMAV Wrinkle Smoothing Cream

SPF: Opt for a mineral-based SPF that provides broad-spectrum protection without synthetic ingredients. In addition to a dedicated SPF, you can top up your protection with LAMAV’s Mineral Based BB Cream and Mineral Foundation that will provide you with an additional SPF 15 mineral protection.

Optional Extras

While none of us really need a complicated skincare routine, there are a few optional extras that will support your complexion if you have specific skin concerns. These treatments will deliver more concentrated formulations to support age defence, excess oil and dry skin.

Toner: Use an alcohol-free toner infused with botanicals to restore balance and prep the skin for moisture. Apply immediately after cleansing before continuing with your leave-on products.

We recommend:

Dry, Sensitive and Mature Skin – LAMAV Rose Hydrating Mist Toner

Oily and Blemish Prone Skin – LAMAV Probiotic Toner

Serum: Serums provide more targeted treatment for concerns such as dullness/uneven skin tone, ageing and dry skin. Choose a serum with naturally derived bio-actives to deliver natural results.

We recommend:

Oily Skin – LAMAV Bakuchiol Booster (natural retinol alternative)

Mature Skin – LAMAV Commiphora Plumping Serum

Dull/Uneven Skin – LAMAV Daily Vitamin C Serum

Dry Skin – LAMAV Hydra Max Serum

Weekly Treatments: Incorporate exfoliants and masks made with natural clays and fruit acids to refine your complexion while encouraging cellular turnover.

We recommend:

Oily Skin – LAMAV AHA Face Exfoliant

Mature Skin – LAMAV Firming Treatment Mask

Dull/Uneven Skin – LAMAV Glow Beauty Mask

Dry Skin – LAMAV Jojoba Exfoliating Scrub

Conclusion

The journey to healthy skin is not about perfection and immediate results – it takes progress and holistic care to achieve healthy skin. Skincare is a long term investment and by committing to a consistent organic skincare routine, you give your skin the support it needs from nature to glow long term, not just for the day.

Dry January Didn’t Change My Life. Ninety Days Did.

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Dry January Didn’t Change My Life. Ninety Days Did.

I know the Pacman t-shirt was my 40th in July 2020, the rest is a blur.

People get weird in January. Suddenly everything needs fixing. Drinking, spending, eating, productivity, personality. The pressure to reset has been packaged, branded, and sold back to us as self-improvement.

I’m not anti better choices. I’m anti pretending that January is the only month where change is allowed.

If it’s not Dry January, it’s No-Buy January. Veganuary. New Year, New You. And don’t get me started on the goal posters.

Anyway. I’m here with some Dry January wisdom. It’s okay if you already quit. It’s great if you keep going. And just like my skincare advice, this comes from experience. Also just like skincare, we’re all different. What worked for me may not work for you.

For years, I put pressure on myself to stop drinking. I’m an all-or-nothing person. Very black and white. Too much so, honestly. I used to be a smoker. Hard to believe, but I smoked a pack and a half a day for fifteen years. I quit cold turkey because I was over it. I also had the flu and stayed in bed long enough to realize it had been more than 48 hours since my last cigarette. That accidental break did it. That was over a decade ago. I don’t remember the exact date, only that it was the first week of February. I haven’t had a single puff since.

So. Drinking.

I randomly stopped last year. Not January 1st. September 2nd, actually. Had I known it would be my last glass of “the driest white you have,” I would’ve gone somewhere nicer. But also, no regrets.

Everyone has different reasons for cutting back or stopping. Not to get too personal, but I didn’t like looking bloated all the time. In your twenties, de-bloating takes two days. In your forties, try two months. I also found out I had type 2 diabetes in 2020 and still managed to drink wine every single day. A lot of wine. Some days, two bottles. Other days, two and a half.

It was fun. I’d sip and write posts, edit photos, mask, obsess over looking bloated, promise myself I wouldn’t drink the next day, then repeat.

I also wasn’t a loud or angry drunk. I’d get passionate. I knew when to leave. No one can say I was bad company or embarrassing. If anything, we made new friends. And as strange as it sounds, no matter how drunk I was, I had to shower before bed. Possibly Polish Catholic guilt. Possibly just lifelong cleansing habits.

Here’s what I noticed after I stopped drinking.

Very little happened in the first 30 days. I know that sounds crazy, but if Dry January feels underwhelming, you’re not alone. I maybe lost a couple pounds. I didn’t sleep better. I still felt bloated. My blood work barely changed.

What kept me going was the self-satisfaction of being strong-willed.

And then everything changed after 90 days.

I don’t know if this is an omgbart exclusive, but for me, 90 days was the answer. I lost close to 20 pounds in three months. I ate whatever I wanted. That’s the wild part. I stopped denying myself carbs because alcohol wasn’t taking up that space anymore. I had developed mild anxiety since the first lockdown, especially around sleep. That shifted too.

omgbart personal essay after quitting drinking alcohol photos
me yesterday, me four months ago, me on a train in Germany exhausted and stressed

Rested. Lighter. Less anxious. More productive. I felt great on the wagon.

What made this stick was not putting pressure on myself. I’ve always hated sober content on Instagram. The tracking apps. The daily devotional bullshit. Hard pass. I’m typing this on day 510 of not drinking. I didn’t plan on counting past a year, but it’s oddly satisfying to see I can do this without feeling deprived or like I’m missing out.

What helped wasn’t some replacement ritual or productivity glow-up. It was less dramatic than it sounds. I read more. I wrote more. I walked. A lot. I let boredom exist without immediately fixing it. I had a supportive partner who never made my choice a thing, and still doesn’t ask if I plan on starting again. None of it felt virtuous or particularly impressive. It just filled the space alcohol used to take up.

The most awkward moments happened in the first three months. I skipped catch-ups because I didn’t want to order a Coke and field questions. I didn’t have some dramatic diagnosis, and casually quitting when you’re known as the life of the party looks suspicious. Lunches at my favorite spots were brutal while I relearned how to enjoy food without wine.

We all have “I need a drink” triggers. A fun lunch. A party where you don’t know anyone. A stressful phone call. For me, it was flying. I’m an incredibly nervous flier and used to get bombed before boarding. Then I’d do an in-flight skincare routine. Because, balance.

In the past year and a half, I’ve taken at least a dozen flights. We moved to Spain with three cats, which was a lot. My mom died of cancer two weeks before Christmas. If you count mid-level inconveniences, the list never ends.

I did all of that sober.

Living in Madrid, booze is everywhere. It’s cultural. Civilized, but constant. My husband’s glass of wine at dinner is often cheaper than my Coke Zero. I still find that fascinating.

The unexpected side effect is my sweet tooth has completely gone off the rails. I cannot stop. Luckily, baked goods and candy bars here are far superior to what I was used to in the US. Guilt aside, I’m still 25 pounds down while indulging more than ever. I’ve stopped trying to explain it.

Dry January what to drink when you quit alcohol
mojito, something I can’t recall, Moscow mule – all without alcohol

What do I drink now? It depends.

Some nights, I navigate mocktails. I’ll be honest, most are overpriced and aggressively sweet. I learned quickly to ask for a zero-proof mojito and to request it less sweet. Same goes for a Moscow mule. Bartender reactions vary, but it works more often than not. One place in Madrid (Fismuler) makes an incredible virgina Paloma.

At home and most nights out, I’m fully committed to Coke Zero Zero. Since moving to Europe, it’s become an obsession. In my opinion, it’s the best-tasting Coke available. No sugar, no caffeine. Which means I can have one in the evening without lying awake, replaying my entire life at 3 a.m.

Just to be clear, this isn’t a boast or faux modesty. I’m writing this in case parts of it ring true for you. No matter your circumstances, pressure is not the move. Don’t make a list. Don’t prep a start date. The day will come, and you’ll wake up knowing.

You can do it. And you’ll be great.

L’Occitane Groupe weighs potential US IPO following 2024 take-private deal

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L’Occitane Groupe weighs potential US IPO following 2024 take-private deal

THE WHAT? L’Occitane Groupe is reportedly considering an initial public offering in the US as soon as this year, after being taken private by billionaire owner Reinold Geiger in 2024.

THE DETAILS The skincare group is said to be working with JPMorgan Chase & Co. and Morgan Stanley on the potential listing, according to sources familiar with the matter.

L’Occitane was taken private in 2024, ending its 14-year listing on the Hong Kong stock exchange, in a deal that valued the business at €6 billion on an equity basis.

Founded in 1976, the group operates eight brands—including Elemis, Sol De Janeiro and Melvita—and has a footprint of more than 3,000 locations across 90 countries. In its latest financial report, L’Occitane posted sales of €2.8 billion for the financial year ended March 31, 2025. The Americas represented its largest region at 46% of sales, followed by Asia Pacific at almost 30%.

THE WHY? A potential US IPO would signal renewed public market ambition for one of beauty’s largest multi-brand retail groups, at a time when investor focus remains concentrated on scale, global reach and strong growth engines—particularly in the Americas, which is currently L’Occitane’s biggest market by revenue contribution.

Source: Bloomberg

From Runway to Real Life

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From Runway to Real Life

Why Warm Neutrals Are Trending Everywhere

Designers consistently lean on warm neutral makeup because it flatters a wide range of skin tones and adapts easily from runway neutral makeup to real-life wear. Shades like caramel, bronze, and soft brown enhance natural features instead of masking them, which is why earth tone makeup looks feel so approachable.

This versatility is what makes warm neutral makeup a staple both backstage and beyond the runway.

Earth-Tone Eyes: From Soft Taupe to Bronze Glam

A well-curated neutral eyeshadow palette makes it easy to adapt runway-inspired looks to everyday life. Soft taupe eye makeup offers understated definition, while warmer metallics build into a refined bronze eyeshadow look.

Using taupe tones allows for natural dimension while bronze shades add warmth that feels flattering across skin tones.

Face & Cheeks: Creating a Warm, Cohesive Base

A warm, cohesive base starts with foundation. Applying an even layer creates a smooth canvas that balances earth-tone eye makeup and enhances neutral face makeup. Choosing a warm tone foundation helps keep the complexion natural and allows warm shades to look soft and wearable.

To finish, Blonzer adds dimension. This bronzer blush makeup hybrid brings a skin-like flush with subtle bronze warmth, creating a fresh, sun-kissed effect that ties warm neutrals together without harsh contouring.

The Final Finish: When to Choose Matte vs Natural Glow

Earth tones work beautifully with both matte and luminous finishes. A matte neutral makeup look helps reduce shine and maintain a smooth appearance throughout the day. For drier skin types, glowy neutral makeup keeps the complexion fresh while still allowing warmth to shine through. A lightweight setting powder helps achieve a setting powder matte look without flattening the makeup.

Clean Beauty + Earth Tones = The Perfect Everyday Combination

Because neutral looks are worn daily, clean vegan eyeshadow and non comedogenic bases matter. Choosing talc free neutral makeup helps support comfortable, irritation-free wear, and natural mineral makeup delivers breathable coverage and skin-like finishes that feel ideal for everyday routines.

Runway to Real Life: Step-by-Step Neutral Tutorial

This quick neutral makeup tutorial shows how to turn runway-inspired earth tones into an easy, wearable look for everyday.

Create a breathable base

Start with a lightweight mineral foundation to even out skin while keeping it natural. For more coverage and a true matte effect, choose a long-wear powder option that smooths and refines without feeling heavy.

Choose your eye look: Soft taupe or bronze warmth

Soft taupe shades create subtle definition for everyday wear and anchor an effortless earth tone makeup guide. To elevate the look, layer warm golds and bronzes for polished bronze natural glam that still feels wearable.

Add warmth to the cheeks

Apply Blonzer to bring the look together. This bronzer-blush hybrid adds a flush with soft bronze warmth for a naturally sun-kissed finish.

Set the look

Finish with setting powder for a soft-matte effect or setting spray for longer wear and natural glow.

Short steps, warm tones, and breathable skin make this runway-to-real-life look effortless.

FAQs

Why do earth-tone shades suit everyone?

Earth tones work with a wide range of skin tones because they mirror natural undertones, making everyday neutral makeup universally flattering. Using these shades highlights the neutral eyeshadow benefits of easy blending, subtle definition, and versatile wear for any occasion.

Can I create glam looks using neutrals?

Absolutely. You can create sophisticated glam looks using neutrals by layering deeper browns and warm metallics. This builds a refined neutral glam look while still keeping the eye makeup soft and wearable, perfect for a subtle smoky neutral makeup effect without harsh lines.

What base works best with warm neutral eye makeup?

If you have warm undertones, a warm neutral foundation is ideal for pairing with earth-tone eye makeup. For other skin tones, a natural powder foundation that matches your complexion creates a balanced, breathable base while letting the eyes stand out.

Which cheek color pairs best with earth tones?

A soft bronzer blush combination complements neutral eyes and enhances warmth without overpowering the look. Its the perfect neutral makeup blush.

How do I make my neutral look last longer?

Using setting products creates long lasting neutral makeup, helping preserve warmth and definition throughout the day.

How to Switch to Organic Skincare Without Irritation – LAMAV

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How to Switch to Organic Skincare Without Irritation – LAMAV

1. Can switching to organic skincare cause irritation?

Yes, it can, but it doesn’t have to. Even though organic products avoid many synthetic chemicals, some natural ingredients (like citrus oils, peppermint, or strong botanicals) can still trigger sensitivity. The key to enjoying organic skincare without irritation is to start slow, patch test every new product, and focus on calming, barrier-supportive ingredients like aloe, calendula, and oat extract.

2. How do I know which organic products are right for sensitive skin?

Look for sensitive skin organic products with short, simple ingredient lists and minimal fragrance. Gentle botanicals like chamomile, centella asiatica, and rosehip oil are good options. If you have rosacea or highly reactive skin, steer clear of heavily fragranced or essential oil-heavy formulas. The best organic skincare routine is one that’s tailored to your skin type, be it dry, oily, combination, or sensitive.

3. How long does it take to see results after switching to organic skincare?

Organic products tend to work more gradually than conventional ones. While some improvements (like reduced irritation) may appear in a couple of weeks, it usually takes 4–6 weeks of consistent use to see noticeable changes in texture, hydration, or clarity. Patience is key when you switch to organic skincare, slow progress often leads to more sustainable, long-term results.

4. What’s the safest way to transition to organic skincare?

The safest approach is to replace products one at a time rather than overhauling your entire routine at once. Begin with essentials like cleanser, moisturizer, and SPF. This phased approach makes it easier to identify which products your skin loves and which might be causing issues. If you’re wondering how to transition to organic skincarethink of it as a marathon, not a sprint.

5. Should I see a dermatologist when switching to organic skincare?

It’s not always necessary, but it can be very helpful, especially if you have a history of eczema, rosacea, or highly reactive skin. A dermatologist can recommend the right sensitive skin organic productsguide you in building the best organic skincare routineand help troubleshoot persistent irritation. If your skin remains red, itchy, or inflamed after making the switch, professional advice is the next step.

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