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Why the beauty industry is now selling you anti-zombie skincare

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Why the beauty industry is now selling you anti-zombie skincare

You might not have noticed it yet, but there’s a new word quietly taking over the beauty industry – and it’s not what it seems.

That word is longevityand it’s showing up everywhere from skincare marketing, supplements, blue zone diets and so-called anti-zombie-cell serums (yes, you’ve read that right!).

And while it sounds scientific, serious, and self-caring, longevity might just be the beauty industry’s cleverest rebrand yet, because it promises to help us live longer, glow longer and somehow cheat time without ever saying the words “anti-ageing”.

In this week’s episode of Green Beauty Conversations, Formula Botanica CEO Lorraine Dallmeier unpacks how the industry has swapped the uncomfortable language of “anti-ageing” for the palatable promise of “longevity”. But beneath the lab coats and wellness slogans, the message remains the same: time is still being sold to us as the enemy.

Following on from last week’s interview episode, Lorraine’s latest Green Beauty Opinions offers a witty, incisive and timely exploration of how our collective fear of ageing has been repackaged as responsible self-care – and why we should all be paying attention.

If you’ve ever been tempted by a “skin longevity” serum or wondered what on earth an “anti-zombie” product is supposed to do, this episode is for you!

Listen here

“Longevity sounds clinical and modern, but at its core it’s still whispering the same thing into your ear: you’re not quite enough as you are – and we’ve got the product that’ll fix it.” — Lorraine Dallmeier

Key takeaways:

  • Longevity has replaced anti-ageing as beauty’s newest buzzword. The industry knows that consumers are wary of being told to fight the natural process of getting older, so it has rebranded the same message in softer, science-sounding language. The result? Products that seem empowering but still hinge on the same old insecurities.
  • The rise of “anti-zombie” skincare shows how far the marketing spin can go. Brands are now targeting senescent or “zombie” cells – those that stop dividing but refuse to die – with creams, serums and supplements that promise to flush them out. Lorraine points out the absurdity of this trend, likening it to a skincare version of Thrillerwhere anti-zombie serums stalk your bathroom shelf!
  • The wellness industry has jumped on the longevity bandwagon. From mushroom powders to “cellular rejuvenation” blends, the narrative of extending your healthspan (or even your “skinspan”) is being sold as self-care. Yet the emotional undertone remains the same: you’re responsible for optimising yourself before time catches up.
  • Longevity sells because it feels aspirational, not fearful. The message is no longer about vanity; it’s about responsibility, science and future health. But as Lorraine explains, that doesn’t make it any less manipulative. It still suggests that ageing – and by extension, imperfection – is something that needs fixing.
  • We need to question what longevity marketing is really selling. Is it health, hope, or just another fear wrapped in a sleek new package? True progress in beauty, Lorraine argues, won’t come from another buzzword or anti-zombie serum – it will come from rejecting the idea that time itself is a flaw to be corrected.

Thank you for joining us for this episode of the Formula Botanica Green Beauty Conversations podcast. If you enjoyed listening, please share, subscribe and review this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or Youtube so that more people can enjoy the show. Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Facebook and Instagram.

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DOES IT STOP HAIR LOSS IN MEN? ~ THE MALE GROOMING REVIEW

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DOES IT STOP HAIR LOSS IN MEN? ~ THE MALE GROOMING REVIEW

Saw palmetto (Serenoa repens) is a plant extract commonly used in alternative medicine to treat male baldness, particularly androgenetic alopecia (male pattern baldness). This condition is often linked to the hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a derivative of testosterone.

Saw palmetto is believed to have DHT-inhibiting properties, similar to finasteride, a well-known pharmaceutical treatment for hair loss. Here’s an overview of the effects of saw palmetto on male baldness:

1. Inhibition of DHT

  • Mechanism: Saw palmetto may block the enzyme 5-alpha reductase, which converts testosterone into DHT. High levels of DHT are known to shrink hair follicles, leading to hair thinning and eventual hair loss.
  • Effectiveness: Some studies suggest that saw palmetto can reduce DHT levels, which might slow hair loss and, in some cases, promote hair regrowth.

2. Clinical Studies and Research

  • Small-scale studies: A few clinical trials have examined saw palmetto’s impact on hair growth:
    • A 2012 study published in the International Journal of Trichology found that 38% of men who used a saw palmetto topical treatment experienced an improvement in hair growth compared to 68% who used finasteride.
    • A 2009 study observed that 60% of participants using saw palmetto saw some hair improvement, with a particular emphasis on reducing hair loss.
  • Limitations: Many of these studies are small and short-term, and the results are mixed. More large-scale, long-term studies are needed to confirm its effectiveness.
Saw palmetto hair growth male before after

3. Topical vs. Oral Use

  • Oral supplements: Saw palmetto is commonly taken in capsule form as a dietary supplement. It can also be taken within a multi-ingredient supplement.
  • Topical application: Some hair loss products contain saw palmetto in shampoos or scalp treatments, which are thought to help by directly affecting the hair follicles.
  • Combination with other ingredients: Saw palmetto is often combined with other hair growth-promoting compounds, like biotin or minoxidil, in commercial products. Saw palmetto is also used in leading specialist hair growth supplements such as HR23+.

4. Comparison to Pharmaceutical Treatments

  • Finasteride and Minoxidil: These FDA-approved treatments are generally considered more effective than saw palmetto for male baldness, with finasteride specifically targeting DHT. However, saw palmetto is popular because it is natural and may have fewer side effects. Finasteride is known to give major negative side-effects, some of which are long-term, and even irreversible.
  • Side effects: Unlike finasteride, which can cause side effects like decreased libido, saw palmetto is thought to have a lower risk of sexual side effects, though some men report mild gastrointestinal discomfort or headaches.

5. Safety and Tolerability

  • Natural alternative: Saw palmetto is generally well-tolerated and considered safe for most people. However, some potential side effects include stomach upset, headaches, and mild dizziness.
  • Interactions: It may interact with medications like blood thinners, so consultation with a healthcare provider is recommended before use.

Summary:

Saw palmetto may have a mild positive effect on reducing male pattern baldness by inhibiting DHT production. It can also help boost the formation of healthy hair growth when combined with growth agents like folate and biotin (vitamin B7).

Saw palmetto is often favoured as a natural remedy due to its lower risk of side effects. However, more research is needed to fully confirm its benefits for hair regrowth.

Europe’s leading non-medical hair loss treatment, HR23+ Hair Restoration Supplement, combines saw palmetto with 22 additives in order to help reduce hair loss and promote hair growth in men experiencing androgenic alopecia.  HR23+ has shown to work in 9 out of 10 users.

male hair loss treatment



8 Great Responses to Use When a Relative Comments on Your Food or Body

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8 Great Responses to Use When a Relative Comments on Your Food or Body

Holiday gatherings have long been fraught with unsolicited comments about food, bodies, and weight from extended family. But this year, between Ozempic’s ever-rising popularity, the MAHA movement’s headline-making “clean eating” agenda, and social media’s constant commentary about celebrities’ bodies, it’s fair to assume that you may be facing these conversations even more frequently.

Small talk about diets or observations about someone’s apparent weight loss often aren’t malicious, but they can certainly be triggering, and they can get in the way of genuine connection. It’s hard to open up to someone when you’re worried about them commenting on the size of your body or the amount of food on your plate.

As an eating disorder dietitian, I know a thing or two about how to shut down food and body shaming, however casual or unintentional it may be. I spend a lot of time during the last few months of the year role-playing these tricky situations and helping my clients feel more prepared to handle them.

If you’re already anxious about navigating unwelcome remarks about what you eat or how you look over the holidays, you’re certainly not alone. I asked therapists and a few other dietitians to share some great go-to responses for common comments you may face throughout the festivities.

1. “I’m working really hard to focus less on my body right now. Let’s talk about something else.”

If you cross paths with someone you haven’t seen in a long time, they might comment on your body in a way that they think is complimentary. Think: “You look great! Have you lost weight?” or “Wow, you look so tiny in that dress!” If you practice body neutrality and don’t subscribe to the idea that thin is best (it isn’t), these interactions can be extremely uncomfortable. You might also struggle with how to react since the person you’re talking to probably has no idea that what they said was anything but positive.

“You can appreciate someone’s intent in offering what they believe to be a positive comment while gracefully offering a correction and redirection,” Amber Stevens, PsyD, licensed psychologist and clinical director of Galia Collaborative in Cincinnati, tells SELF.

The best response in this case, Dr. Stevens says, is one that acknowledges the comment’s intent but shuts down further conversation.

She suggests trying something like: “I think you meant that as a compliment, but this is a sensitive topic for me that I’d prefer not to discuss. What have you been up to lately?” Or maybe: “I’m working really hard to focus less on my body right now. Let’s talk about something else.”

2. “All bodies change over time for a variety of reasons, so it makes sense that their body may look different.”

Even if your body isn’t a conversation topic at this year’s holiday gathering, someone might try talking to you about how someone else’s has changed. And while some people might consider this run-of-the-mill gossip, it’s actually incredibly harmful.

This London brand is a cheat code for cool-girl bridalwear

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This London brand is a cheat code for cool-girl bridalwear

Despite having been in a relationship for just under a decade, I’d be lying if I said I’d ever truly thought about what my future wedding dress might look like. It wasn’t a conscious avoidance so much as a quiet assumption that the idea would simply take shape down the line, and that perhaps I’d recognise the one when the moment arrived.

Thankfully, newly engaged, I now have ample reason to wade my way through oceans of silk, tulle, satin and everything in between in search of a suitably chic ‘fit for one of the biggest days of my life. So naturally, I paid a visit to The Own Studio, AKA the brand coveted by every bride in search of classic yet effortlessly chic bridalwear.

Launched by Jess Kaye and Rosie Williams in 2019, since its inception The Own Studio has delivered on elegant silhouettes and sculptural designs that speak for themselves.

“Our customer wants to feel timeless and modern at the same time, so we never compromise on those elements,” co-founder Jess tells me.

“Every design has to feel considered and special – nothing added for the sake of it, nothing taken away without thought. Proportion and detail are essential, as is creating pieces that feel timeless rather than trend-led.”

With the duo taking inspiration from vintage silhouettes, these classic influences translate directly into their collections with an intentional approach that is apparent as soon as you slip into one of their pieces. A clear signature style flows through each gown, and “It’s that red thread that keeps everything feeling timeless but still with a modern edge,” Jess says.

Styles 140 and 145.

Courtesy of Lian Brooks

Image may contain Clothing Dress Formal Wear Sleeve Fashion Gown Furniture Adult Person Wedding and Wedding Gown

Style 116.

Courtesy of Lian Brooks

But what truly sets The Own Studio apart is its commitment to designing bridalwear that can be reworn long after your wedding day, an ethos that really resonates with me.

“Wedding dresses are expensive pieces, and to wear them only once felt like such a waste. Creating pieces that can be reworn and loved beyond the wedding day was a passion from day one.” Jess says.

Through their dyeing and tailoring service OWN AGAIN, bridalwear is reimagined as a versatile piece that can be worn and loved long after your wedding day.

This refreshing approach and refusal to over-design or chase trends is what makes the brand so compelling. Timeless yet modern, considered yet effortless, these are pieces designed not just for a single moment, but for a lifetime of wear – a philosophy that sadly feels more uncommon than not, and all the more appealing because of it.

Intrigued? Join me as I try on some of the brand’s bestselling looks in search of the one.

Style 074 / Silk mikado gown

Prior to my visit to The Own Studio I spent longer than I’d care to admit eyeing up this dreamy silk mikado gown, and it’s safe to say that she did not disappoint. I love how light and elegant this feels, with deliciously deep pleats and soft spaghetti straps giving major princess vibes. A scarf made this even more of a moment, effortlessly elevating with femme charm.

Image may contain Formal Wear Clothing Dress Fashion Gown Wedding Wedding Gown Sleeve Furniture and Indoors

Courtesy of Lian Brooks

Style 173 / The Sierra silk taffeta gown

Sierra is a whole vibe. Oozing in cool-girl energy, this gown is actually named after a bespoke client who inspired the design. Featuring crisp silk taffeta, I love the contrast between the simple yet sculptural bodice and generous gathering, with the train at the back adding another delightful layer to this look.

Image may contain Clothing Dress Dressing Room Indoors Room Formal Wear Evening Dress Sleeve Fashion and Gown

Courtesy of Lian Brooks

Style 140 / Strapless corset paired with Style 145 / Duchesse column skirt

It’s no surprise this corset is a firm favourite among The Own Studio clients, and it looks especially striking styled with this sleek satin skirt. The contrast is what really makes the look sing: the corset’s sculptural structure plays beautifully against the skirt’s fluid, pared-back elegance. I love how flattering this silhouette is, being strong enough to wear as is or with a scarf for added vibes.

Image may contain Clothing Sleeve Dress Formal Wear Fashion Gown Wedding Wedding Gown Evening Dress and Adult

Courtesy of Lian Brooks

Style 075 / Scoop neck silk mikado drop-waist dress

I’ve been wearing drop-waisted dresses all year long because of how elegant yet easy they are to style, so this number was always going to be a winner in my books. I’m obsessed with the modern silhouette of this, with delicate straps framing the shoulders beautifully, while the fluid yet voluminous skirt adds a refined finish. Quiet luxury done right.

Image may contain Clothing Dress Formal Wear Fashion Gown Wedding Wedding Gown Dressing Room Indoors and Room

Courtesy of Lian Brooks

Style 022 / Mikado mini with crystal drops

The sweetest ivory mini dripping with embellished crystal drops that shimmer from every angle. I loved the neckline of this and how playful it felt. Better still, I could absolutely see myself rewearing this post-nuptials. Yes and yes.

Image may contain Clothing Sleeve Adult Person and Furniture

Courtesy of Lian Brooks

Image may contain Blouse Clothing Sleeve Accessories Jewelry Ring Adult Person Electronics Mobile Phone and Phone

Courtesy of Lian Brooks

Style 149 / Strapless silk satin gown with draped detailing and sash

Is this not the most romantic dress you’ve ever seen? A strapless corseted silk satin gown with dreamy draped details, I love how structured yet soft this is. Finished with a fluid sash, the design feels considered, elegant and unfussy – proof that the most impactful pieces are often the ones that balance simplicity with thoughtful detail.

Image may contain Clothing Dress Formal Wear Fashion Gown Wedding Wedding Gown Sleeve Evening Dress and Furniture

Courtesy of Lian Brooks

Image may contain Clothing Dress Formal Wear Sleeve Chair Furniture Dressing Room Indoors Room Fashion and Gown

Courtesy of Lian Brooks

Style 116 / Backless halter with pearl detail

This one caught me off guard in the best possible way. The most flattering halter neck dress, silk satin drapes beautifully to give the most effortlessly elegant final look, while pearl detailing across the back and satin sashes add some intrigue. Consider my head turned. This feels like a serious contender and received rave reviews from family and friends.

Image may contain Clothing Dress Formal Wear Sleeve Adult Person Wedding Furniture Indoors Head Face and Chair

Courtesy of Lian Brooks

Image may contain Clothing Dress Formal Wear Sleeve Fashion Gown Wedding Wedding Gown Evening Dress and Adult

Style 168 / Duchesse satin crescent column dress paired with Style 169 / Duchesse satin detachable puff hip train

Striking yet simple, this is a beautiful option for those who are fans of the clean girl aesthetic. Especially form-fitted from the hidden internal corset, the curved crescent neckline on this feels contemporary yet timelessly chic. Pair with the wonderfully pillowy duchesse satin puff hip train or let this be the moment it is in itself without any extra trimmings.

Image may contain Clothing Dress Formal Wear Fashion Gown Wedding Wedding Gown Furniture Adult Person and Indoors

Courtesy of Lian Brooks

Image may contain Clothing Dress Formal Wear Fashion Gown Wedding Wedding Gown Indoors Furniture and Person

Courtesy of Lian Brooks

Style 111 / Organza peekaboo silk mikado gown

Sometimes, simple is best, and this style is a testament to that. Truly a classic piece, I love how flattering the square neckline is and the subtle elevated details. Pair with a veil, gloves or train for added drama or let this chic gown speak for itself.

Image may contain Clothing Dress Fashion Formal Wear Gown Wedding Wedding Gown Evening Dress Furniture and Adult

Courtesy of Lian Brooks

Image may contain Clothing Dress Fashion Formal Wear Gown Sleeve Wedding Wedding Gown Adult Person and Furniture

Courtesy of Lian Brooks

Style 171 / Silk taffeta corset gown with tucked skirt

A strapless silk taffeta situation that hugs you in all the right places, I’m in love with the simple yet structured bodice on this and the blissfully voluminous bubble hem skirt which is delivering on the drama.

Image may contain Clothing Dress Formal Wear Fashion Gown Wedding Wedding Gown Sleeve Evening Dress and Adult

Courtesy of Lian Brooks

Style 146 / Corseted silk gown with draped skirt detail

Understatedly elegant, this drop-waist corseted gown balances clean simplicity with compelling texture created by the ruched detailing. The structured square neckline frames the body beautifully, allowing the contoured silhouette to take centre stage.

Image may contain Clothing Dress Sleeve Formal Wear Fashion Gown Wedding Wedding Gown Furniture and Chair

Courtesy of Lian Brooks

Manifest Healthy Hair with these 12 Positive Affirmations

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Manifest Healthy Hair with these 12 Positive Affirmations

Have you ever looked at your hair in the mirror and thought that you didn’t like the way it looked? It was too frizzy, too oily, too dry or didn’t have enough volume, bounce or shine? If these internal thoughts sound familiar, you are not alone.

While it’s normal to have a bad hair day, this constant pattern of negative talk, believe it or not, can stop you from reaching all of your hair goals. If only you could manifest the hair you want!

This may come to a surprise as we’ve been conditioned (no pun intended) to think that only hair extensions or styling products can be the solution to all of our hair woes but a generous helping of positive thinking can also do wonders for your locks too. If you want to learn how to manifest healthy hair, read on to learn how hair affirmations can help you come closer to the hair you’ve always wanted.

Do hair affirmations really work?

Yes, manifesting healthy hair is possible. Words are powerful and repeating positive affirmations day after day can rewire our brains to think more positively and in turn improve our self-esteem and self-worth. And when you start to love your hair, you will feel more inclined to take care of it and give it the TLC it deserves.

Positive thinking can do wonders for your emotional well being. In the book Power of Positive Thinking by Dr. Norman Vincent Peale stresses that “you do not need to be defeated by anything… you can have peace of mind, improved health and a never-ceasing flow of energy.” And while the positive thinking trend is nothing new, lately it’s taken on a new form: the concept of manifesting. This viral wellness trend has shown up in countless articles and videos as people share miraculous stories about how practicing manifestation has led them to their soulmate, a sudden pay day or even their dream promotion.

Whether you are coming to terms with how your hair looks and feels or you are looking to manifest hair growth there are manifestation tips and tricks anyone can use for a positivity boost!

Here are 12 hair affirmations that we recommend trying. Say them outloud to start manifesting healthy hair right now:

1) I have beautiful healthy hair

This is such a simple hair affirmation but when was the last time you said this outloud? Acknowledging that your hair is beautiful and healthy is a great start to manifesting healthy hair. Turns out we all love compliments, even our hair!

2) My hair is unique and i will not compare my hair to anybody else’s

Comparison is the thief of joy but we do it all the time once we are on social media scrolling through pictures with the hashtag #hairgoals. Everyone’s hair is different and unique so there’s no use in comparing. Rather than focusing on what your hair doesn’t look like, embrace what you have in the present.

3) I will always be grateful for my hair

We show our gratitude to others so why not also say this to your hair? It’s a reminder to be grateful for what we have even when we aren’t looking or feeling our best.

4) I am committed to learning more about my hair

Like with any relationship it takes a lot of hard work to get to a good place. Your hair may not always be willing to compromise but investing time and effort in getting to know what makes your hair tick and its list of likes and dislikes can go a long way to creating the perfect hair routine.

5) The hair on my head is long, healthy and grows quickly. It is growing and flourishing as I breathe

If one of your goals is to manifest hair growth, focus on saying this positive hair affirmation. Rather than worrying about the lack of hair growth, repeat this on a daily basis to stay focused on your goal while staying positive about your hair journey. It’s time to get rid of all your emotional stress.

Your hair is a living, breathing entity just like you. Picture your strands growing longer every time you inhale and exhale. Although it may not be visible to the naked eye your hair is growing alongside you.

6) My hair glides through my fingers and a comb easily

If you get frustrated about combing your hair since you are constantly met with resistance in the form of knots and tangles, this one’s for you. Picture your hair gliding through your hair brush and how effortless that motion is. Once you use this affirmation, brushing your hair will feel less like a chore and a natural part of your self care routine

7) I can handle taking care of my hair

It can be hard dealing with your hair if it’s very high maintenance but rather than approaching your hair as a problem, give yourself a bit of a pep talk. As the owner of your hair, you’ve got this. And once you figure out what your hair likes, taking care your hair will feel second nature

8) I’m looking forward to wash day because that is my self care time

Rather than dreading wash day, train yourself into thinking that it is part of your relaxation time. Washing your hair and spending time to touch and massage your hair should feel more like a ritual and not something you are avoiding all day.

9) I will pay attention my scalp

Scalp health is so important to hair growth. This hair affirmation is an important reminder to pay attention to any clues your scalp is making throughout the day. Does your scalp feel itchy or dry? Could it benefit from a quick scalp massage or an energizing scalp scrub?

10) My curls are gorgeous and unique

Embrace your unique textured hair. Although it requires a lot of attention and maintenance, there are others who would love to have the curls that you do.

11) My hair is beautiful whether it’s short, medium length or long

We can all feel a little worried after a big hair change or major haircut but know that no matter what length your hair is, it doesn’t change the fact that your hair is beautiful.

12) I can wear whatever hairstyle I want

Instead of saying ‘I can’t pull off that hairstyle’ turn that negative self talk into a positive! Whether you have always wanted to work a curly ponytail or master a french braid, say this enough times and you’ll have enough confidence to walk out the door with any hairstyle you desire.

Visualize Hair Growth

Aside from verbalizing positive thoughts, visualization is also a huge part of manifesting healthy hair. Here’s a visualization technique you can use if you are looking to manifest hair growth. You can do this simple exercise while sitting or standing.

1. Focus on your breathing and start to imagine your hair at the length you desire
2. Picture your hair slowly growing from the roots and extending downwards
3. Visualize yourself effortlessly running a comb from your crown to the ends of your hair

Diet, exercise and hair care products will also play a role in hair growth but manifesting healthy hair is a great first step in changing the way you feel about your hair. As you start to embrace your natural hair, you will feel more motivated to take care of it. Time to change your mindset and start manifesting the hair you’ve always wanted.

Looking for more hair advice and styling tips? Subscribe to our newsletter to step up your hair game.

7 Days & Ways To Improve You – Nourished Life

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7 Days & Ways To Improve You – Nourished Life

All it takes is small daily choices that slowly snowball into lifelong, big changes. Before you know it, the one habit you’ve read on this blog has become something you unconsciously do. Wellness is for everyone – whether you’re new to the wellness game, a stay at home mum or juggling two jobs.

To help you achieve your wellness goals, we’ve mapped out 7 ways to improve your life over the next 7 days. You can start small and only do one thing a day, or carry over the habit to the next day. It’s your wellness journey and you can mix and match it however you want. These tips are so simple, made for everyone, affordable and can be absolutely life changing when you incorporate it into your routines.

Day One: Start the day with gratitude
This is something you can do anywhere, at any time. Pop some gratitude time in your diary wherever it fits. Maybe it’s writing down 5 things you’re grateful for after a long day, or saying it out loud in the mornings. However you choose to do it, you’ll find yourself appreciating the smaller things in life & seeing the silver lining. And it’s a science backed habit! Research has shown that gratitude helps people feel more positive emotions, improve their health & become more resilient.

Day Two: Ditch the toxicity in your life
Do an audit of what products sit in your bathroom cabinet and on your makeup shelf. Do you still use it? Is it effective? And do you know what ingredients are in it? Consider making the switch to healthier alternatives as a simple way to reduce your exposure to icky ingredients. Maybe it’s grabbing a natural moisturiser, switching to an avocado mascara, or stocking up on aluminium-free deodorants. This small change will be better for your health (and your family’s!) in the long run.

Day Three: Think green & sugar free
It’s time to eat (or drink) more green veggies & cut back on the sugar. Add some extra nutrients in your life with Nutra Organic’s Super Greens Plus Reds. This fan favourite is an easy way to slip some greens into your diet. You can add it to your morning smoothies or try out one of these delicious recipes. We know cutting back on sugar can be a little scary, but it doesn’t have to be! Switch to Eve Wellness’s Hot Choc with Ashwagandha or Chief’s Chocolate Collagen Bar. It’s the little things in life.

Day Four: Indulge your endorphins
This is your official sign to call your bestie for a brunch date and give your mum the biggest squeeze. Why? Because hugging helps release endorphins, aka the feel-good hormones! In addition to catching up with your favourite person, socialising can help sharpen your memory, increase your sense of happiness and can help you live a healthier life. Yep you read it correctly, a wine with the girls can be good for your mental AND physical health!

Day Five: Remember to fill up the water bottle!
Today your aim is to drink at least 2L of water. It’s the easiest thing for your health, but can be the hardest thing to remember. In case you needed a refresher on the benefits of water, it can flush bacteria from your bladder, help with digestion, normalise blood pressure and so, so much more good stuff. If drinking enough water is hard for you, try carrying around one of the beautiful waterdrop Glass Bottles.  Check out our British Berkefeld Ultra Fluoride Filters by Doulton to make sure your water is as healthy and great tasting as it can be!

Day Six: Move your body in the morning
We’re huge advocates for moving your body whenever you can but physical activity in the morning is our favourite! Aim for 20-30 minutes of brisk walking or jogging first thing in the morning. It’ll help boost your serotonin levels, give you energy for the day and help improve your focus. Get your comfy Boody socks on and walk with your bestie while drinking your water. That’s 3 habits done!

Day Seven: Dance, dance, dance!
Never turn down the chance for a good dance party! Whether it’s in the privacy of your own room or with your kids, dancing regularly has incredible health benefits, from increased stamina & better sleep, to burning calories & stronger bones! Create the most incredible dance atmosphere by putting a great energy essential oil blend in your diffuser. Go live your best Nourished Life!

We Tried E.l.f.’s Soft Glam Concealer

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We Tried E.l.f.’s Soft Glam Concealer

Key Takeaways

  • e.l.f. Cosmetics is launching a new concealer: Soft Glam Satin Concealer.
  • The medium buildable coverage formula has a soft finish and marks the brand’s first new concealer launch in six years.

It’s been a big month for e.l.f. Cosmetics. But really, when hasn’t it been? It was a big year for e.l.f. Cosmetics! Back in May, the affordable makeup and skincare institution acquired Hailey Bieber’s Rhode brand in a billion dollar deal. This month, they have five new launches to share—including their first new concealer in six years.

Ahead, discover everything there is to know about the buildable medium coverage Soft Glam Satin Concealer—including Team Byrdie’s honest reviews.

e.l.f. Cosmetics


The Inspiration

Sometimes, the only inspiration you need to create something new is that everyone has been asking for it. Six years is long enough to make someone beg! For new concealer, at least.

We’ve long been fans of e.l.f.’s 16HR Camo Concealer (it’s Team Byrdie’s favorite drugstore long-wearing concealer), but not everyone is about a matte finish. This new version is getting with the times, aka 2025 when we’re all about a soft and satin-y look.

e.l.f. Cosmetics


The Soft Glam fam—which already includes the brand’s beloved Soft Glam Satin Foundation—is also expanding with Soft Glam Brightening Corrector. Available in white, light pink, and dark pink, you can layer it under your concealer to brighten and neutralize discoloration and dark circles.

The Formula

The brand describes the new concealer as “luxurious,” with a high-performance formula that delivers creamy, lightweight, and long-wearing coverage with no caking, creasing, or transferring. To keep the “soft” in soft glam, the formula includes hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and a hibiscus complex. It also contains amino acid-coated pigments for a soft feel.

e.l.f. Cosmetics


Soft Glam Concealer comes in a range of 36 inclusive shades that’ll help you cover your dark circles, redness, and any blemishes. Then there’s that soft and radiant finish, of course.

Our Reviews

Ali Webb, associate editor

Ali Webb


“Some transparency about my holiday season chaos actually serves to show how impressive this concealer is: I swiped it onto my under-eyes in the morning before a busy travel day and only took this selfie about five hours later (with no touch-ups necessary). It’s pretty full-coverage yet blends and wears effortlessly, with a satin finish that lasts all day.”

Araziel Jackson, social media editor

Araziel Jackson


“I’ve never been someone who wears a lot of makeup. A skin-forward look (lots of serums and SPF) with blush and mascara is my daily go-to. However, I’ve been searching for the right concealer for when I want more coverage. I used e.l.f.’s new Soft Glam Satin Concealer in shade 50—a deep warm color that instantly brightened my dark circles. I wore this look from day-to-night and there wasn’t any cakiness or a creasing in sight. Would happily add this lightweight, hydrating formula to my ‘full face’ routine.”

Bella Cacciatore, senior news editor

Beautiful Hunter


“For something called ‘soft glam,’ this concealer really packs a punch! A little goes a long way—just a dab covered my travel-induced dark circles in seconds. Despite the pigment load, it has a lovely satin finish that looks so natural, with minimal creasing and no cake. It feels super lightweight and hydrating, and shade 13 Fair Neutral was the perfect brightening pop on my skin tone. For $5, you really can’t go wrong with this one.”

This Year’s Flu Is Different. Doctors Explain the Symptoms

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This Year’s Flu Is Different. Doctors Explain the Symptoms

It’s not shocking to see cases of the flu jump up during respiratory virus season. But there’s been enough talk about the so-called “super flu” swirling around that it’s fair to wonder what’s going on out there.

“Flu has really taken off in the last week in this country,” William Schaffner, MD, an infectious disease specialist and professor at the Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, tells SELF. While Dr. Schaffner stresses that “the flu is the flu,” there are a few explanations for why symptoms may be a little more intense right now. Here’s what you need to know about this year’s flu symptoms, plus what to do next.

Flu cases are being driven by a new variant.

It’s called subclade K, and it’s a version of influenza A H3N2. It’s important to point out that influenza A H3N2 isn’t new, but subclade K is. This variant of the flu has new mutations that make it more infectious than other strains that have been circulating lately, leading some to call it “super flu.” In fact, influenza A H3N2 mutated seven times over the summer, to emerge as a stronger, heartier virus, Thomas Russo, MD, professor and chief of infectious disease at the University at Buffalo in New York, tells SELF.

Unfortunately, those mutations have made this flu strain better at evading previous immunity you might have, either from being vaccinated or having had other versions of the flu in the past, Dr. Russo says.

Subclade K hit the UK first, and details of the country don’t paint a pretty picture. Early data from the British government suggests that the flu vaccine is 30% to 40% effective at preventing emergency room visits from the flu in adults, while it’s up to 70% effective at keeping kids out of the ER. Essentially, this strain of the flu is highly infectious and our usual tools at preventing it aren’t as effective as we’d like.

The latest data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) show that nearly all stats on the flu are jumping up across the country.

Symptoms are the same, but may be more intense.

Both doctors stress that this is still the flu. “It’s not like this is a new flu,” Dr. Russo says. With that, you can expect the standard symptoms. According to the CDC, those include:

Coty: Markus Strobel appointed interim executive chairman and CEO

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Coty: Markus Strobel appointed interim executive chairman and CEO

The American perfume and cosmetics group announced Monday, December 22, the appointment of Markus Strobel as Executive Chairman of the Board of Directors and Interim CEO, effective January 1, 2026.

Mr. Strobel will take over the roles previously held by Peter Harf, who will retire from the Coty Board of Directors after more than thirty years of service, and Sue Nabi, who will step down as CEO after a five-year term. He joins Coty after 33 years at Procter & Gamble, where he led the global Skin & Personal Care business, a multi-billion dollar portfolio of skin care, personal care and fragrance.

Markus Strobel takes the reins of Coty “at a pivotal moment for the company”, specifies the group, “while a strategic review of the consumer beauty business is underway”.

“Harf’s leadership helped shape Coty into a global beauty leader, while Nabi oversaw the launch of several major blockbuster fragrances, including Burberry Goddess, and significantly reduced Coty’s net financial leverage,” Coty said in a statement.

“Both leave Coty on a solid foundation for future profitable growth,” it added. The group announced last week the sale of the last shares it owned in the hair care brand Wella with the intention of using the proceeds from the sale to continue its debt reduction.

Coty announced in September its wish to refocus on perfumery with the merger of the “prestige” and “consumer” perfume divisions. But Coty is on the verge of losing the Gucci license while the luxury group Kering, owner of the Italian brand, has sold its beauty division to the world number one cosmetics company, French company L’Oréal.

The group went into the red during the 2024/2025 financial year (ended at the end of June) with a net loss of $381 million, compared to a net profit of $76 million a year earlier. Its sales fell 4% to $5.9 billion.

In the first quarter of the 2025/2026 financial year, its results were down with net profit falling 19% to $64.6 million and turnover down 6% to 1.58 billion.

Since the start of the year, the stock has fallen more than 50%.

The 4 Reasons You Get Sugar Cravings, According to Experts

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The 4 Reasons You Get Sugar Cravings, According to Experts

Sometimes (or, um, many times), your body decides it wants a bag of Sour Patch Kids or a chocolate bar, stat. Whether you experience sugar cravings every day or once in a while, they are simply a fact of life. But the intensity with which they can hit makes us wonder: Where do they even come from—and what can they tell you about your body?

The first thing to know is that the science surrounding sugar cravings can actually be pretty thorny. That’s because they typically don’t have one single, easily identifiable cause. Rather, tons of different factors can influence when, where, and why you might develop a sudden hankering, including your biology, psychology, and surroundings, Lindsay Malone, MS, RDN, LD, a nutrition instructor at the Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, tells SELF. What’s more, Malone notes, these factors often overlap and intersect, complicating matters further.

Having a tough time wrapping your head around all of this? We don’t blame you, but don’t worry; we’ll break it all down below. Read on to learn about the four big elements that may be behind your sweet tooth.

How blood sugar affects sugar cravings

Fluctuations in blood sugar are “one of the biggest” contributors to sugar cravings, according to Malone. “Your blood sugar is your body’s primary fuel source,” she says, so your body closely monitors it to make sure you have the energy to function normally. When your levels drop, alarm bells start ringing, nudging you to take action to return to baseline. And the fastest, easiest fix for a plunge? You guessed it: a dose of dietary sugar from a food or beverage. “Sugar is a carbohydrate, and carbohydrates are a very accessible and digestible source of energy,” Vincci Tsui, RD, a certified intuitive eating counselor based in Canada, tells SELF—which is why you might find yourself reaching for a super-sweet item “like juice, candy, or soda” when you need a boost, Malone says.

While your blood sugar fluctuates naturally throughout the day, certain triggers can cause it to rise and fall rapidly, setting off those alarm bells (and thus those sugar cravings). Dieting or otherwise limiting your food intake is one example. “Having a sweet craving can be a way of our bodies telling us, ‘Hey, we’re not eating enough,’” (or taking in sufficient fuel to keep going), Tsui says, so don’t skip out on meals: The hungrier you are, the more your body will push you in this direction, and the harder it’ll be to resist that urge.

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