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Drunk Elephant Protini Polypeptide Cream Review

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In 2018, Drunk Elephant launched its Protini Polypeptide Cream, which quickly became one of the brand’s best-sellers, and since then, it’s amassed thousands of five-star reviews. One of the things people love about it most? Its gel-cream texture. For me, the texture of a moisturizer is one of its most important attributes. If it doesn’t feel good, absorb well or jive with everything else I’m layering underneath, we’re not meant to be, no matter how amazing the ingredients are. Protini has always delivered in this department, and then some. Here, my honest review of this iconic moisturizer.

The Benefits of This Moisturizer

This cream is a great choice for someone who wants both moisture and benefits for aging skin. The key ingredients—nine plant-derived signal peptides—help support healthy collagen production for plumper, firmer skin that you’ll notice with consistent use. As the skin’s collagen gets stronger, the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and sun damage is improved, too. My skin always looks smoother and healthier after using this moisturizer twice a day, even just for a couple weeks.

True to Drunk Elephant’s DNA, the formula is also free of fragrances and dyes, which I really appreciate. If you’re someone who is sensitive to essential oils, this cream is also free of those. And back to the texture—I want to elaborate on that. Though it’s described as a “lightweight gel-cream,” it feels more moisturizing than most other gel-creams I’ve tried. My skin still feels hydrated and comfortable at the end of the day.

BUY ON ULTA BEAUTY – $72

BUY ON SEPHORA – $72

“Every day, I add protein powder to my smoothie for muscle support,” says founder Tiffany Masterson. “I wanted a different kind of moisturizer that would do the same for my skin, so Protini was born. Jam-packed with crazy levels of amino acids, signal peptides and safe, synthetic growth factors—the good kind—this dreamy ‘get-sh*t-done’ cream melts right into your skin to make it hydrated, bouncy and balanced.” In a clinical study, after eight weeks, 96 percent of participants showed improvement in skin’s tone, radiance and luminosity; 93 percent showed improvement in texture; and 90 percent showed improvement in skin’s hydration.

How to Use It

Apply it morning and night on clean skin after toners and serums. I love the hygienic (and refillable!) packaging, which allows you to dispense the perfect amount for your face and neck without having to dip your fingers into the jar. Plus, refills will save you $9 a pop. My only gripe is that you can’t tell how much cream is left in the jar, so if you’re someone who doesn’t like to run out of your favorite product (even if it’s just for a day or two until your order arrives), stock up accordingly. Protini also comes in tiny travel-size if you are packing light, but don’t want to switch up your routine (I’ve even kept it in my clutch for a night out).

How to Recover When You’re Socially Drained, According to Therapists

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Some people live for a calendar filled with dinner reservations, wine nights, and workout classes. But for anyone who isn’t a social butterfly, the constant work of starting (and maintaining) conversations can be less fun and more draining.

Experiencing this kind of burnout doesn’t necessarily mean you’re shy, “lame,” or socially anxious. Rather, social exhaustion (also known as an introvert hangover) is your body’s natural way of telling you that it needs a break, Laurie Helgoe, PhD, associate clinical professor of psychology at Augsburg University and author of Introvert Power: Why Your Inner Life Is Your Hidden Strength, tells SELF. “When you interact with other people, you’re processing a lot of information, and if there’s too much at once, it’s no wonder you’ll be overwhelmed or find it hard to relax,” Dr. Helgoe says.

In many cases, the solution is simple: Get some alone time. But not all self-care is created equal, which is why we asked experts for the most nourishing and fastest ways to recharge your social battery.

1. Read or watch something fictional.

Sometimes your brain just needs a break from reality, in which case a mindless fictional escape can help. “Dive into a captivating mystery, fantasy, or romance novel, or get lost in your favorite movie or TV show,” Dr. Helgoe recommends. Not only can this boost your mood when you’re tired and cranky after something like an hours-long networking event, but immersing yourself in a make-believe world can also give your mind a chance to detach from the very real stressors of everyday life—like last night’s family drama or an intense vent session with a friend.

2. Get outside and move around.

After a busy social day, switching up your surroundings can be surprisingly restorative, according to Dr. Helgoe. The next time you’re craving alone time, ditch the bed rotting and go for a midday stroll along a scenic route. Or if you live in a bustling city, you can just sit on a park bench and listen to your favorite songs. Whatever you do, the point is that stepping outside even momentarily gives your brain a physical and mental break from that constant stimulation. On top of that, research also shows that exposure to green spaces can boost happiness and lower stress.

3. Reframe exhaustion as a sign that you had fun.

After listening to your coworker ramble on about their favorite hockey team or watching your friend swipe through 20 photos of their “adorable” dog, it’s no wonder you might be irritable, checked out, and itching to get away from everyone.

“Our brains are quick to zoom in and ruminate on the lowlights,” Ellen Hendriksen, PhD, a psychologist at Boston University’s Center for Anxiety and Related Disorders and author of How to Be Yourself: Quiet Your Inner Critic and Rise Above Social Anxietytells SELF. The problem with replaying these negative moments, though, is you’re also reliving that stress and frustration—which is why she recommends reframing your fatigue a little more positively.

Dove launches first refillable anti-perspirant range

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THE WHAT? Dove has unveiled its first refillable anti-perspirant collection, marking the brand’s entry into the fast-growing refill deodorants segment.

THE DETAILS The range combines Dove’s 72-hour sweat and odour protection with its signature skincare formulation and launches with three starter kits, each featuring a reusable case and a 35ml refill. The line includes multiple fine-fragrance-inspired scents, alongside standalone refills—including retailer exclusives for Boots and Superdrug—designed to fit interchangeably across all cases.

The launch is supported by a £7.5 million above-the-line marketing campaign aimed at driving awareness and trial. Dove refillable anti-perspirants will be available from February across major grocery and beauty retailers. The move builds on rapid growth in refillable deodorants, which are up 45% year on year and now represent 4% of the category.

THE WHY? Refill formats are emerging as a key growth lever within personal care as consumers seek more sustainable options without compromising on performance. By leveraging Dove’s scale and brand trust, Unilever aims to accelerate adoption of refills, expand category value and complement its existing refill-focused portfolio alongside brands such as Wild.

Source: DOVE

Pat McGrath Labs’ Bankruptcy and the Double Standard of Black Luxury Beauty

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Earlier this week, when Pat McGrath Labs revealed it has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy—a way for companies to sort out their debts while staying in business—one person’s response on Twitter cut through the internet’s commiserations about the brand’s financial status: “Pat McGrath products are inaccessible to most Black women, so she’s an oppressive elitist and I’m glad she’s going bankrupt. That’s why Danessa Myricks took her spot.”

From there, a small but loud corner of the Black community piled on, criticizing one of the most successful Black women in beauty history for occupying the luxury space. “To be honest it is too expensive, considering its positioning and the kind of customer it’s hoping to attract. Hence the declining sales. It’s not like Hermès beauty or Carolina Herrera, another user wrote. “Pat McGrath (self) is a legend. But Pat McGrath Labs (company) isn’t established enough to have the same audience range as brands like NARS, MAC, & Too Faced. It’s self sabotage pricing products the same as them when you don’t have that reach yet,” wrote another. One other response reads: “She believed because she did celebrity makeup that her prices had to be stupid expensive out the gate. She came out with high end prices for makeup as a newcomer. You have to crawl before you run.”

For the uninitiated: Pat McGrath, the makeup artist behind the brand (and a Dame of the British Empire, by the way), has painted the faces of people as famous as Naomi Campbell, Taylor Swift, and Gigi Hadid, and she’s revolutionized runway beauty repeatedly; most recently with the viral glass skin she created for John Galliano’s 2024 Maison Margiela Artisanal show.

And she’s being held to an egregious double standard. Generally speaking, luxury brands aren’t expected to be price-accessible because it’s simply not their business model. Victoria Beckham Beauty sells foundation for $100, and La Mer charges upwards of $80 for some for some of its moisturizers. No one calls them oppressive or asks them to lower their prices in solidarity with white women who can’t afford them, but it seems that’s exactly what has been expected of Pat McGrath Labs. (Pat McGrath’s 10-shade Mothership eye shadow palettes retail for around $128, by the way, and her lipsticks range from $29 to $39. That puts her squarely in the same price range as brands like Natasha Denona, Chantecaille, and yes, Danessa Myricks—the very brand some Twitter users hold up as the more “accessible” alternative to Pat McGrath Labs.)

For Black-owned brands of all sorts, “accessibility” has become a test. When a Black person launches a brand, there’s an assumption its products should be cheaper and available to a mass market. Founders, like the late Sharon Chuter of Uoma Beauty, have recalled facing countless questions from their customer bases about their prices. It’s an impossible position for Black leaders in luxury beauty. They’re expected to serve their entire community at price points everyone can afford while succeeding on their own terms.

The Beyhive Roars: All Signs Point to a Beyoncé Rock Album for “Act III”

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Photo Credit: Ig @Beyonce

The internet is in a frenzy, and the Beyhive is collectively holding its breath. What started as whispers has escalated into a full-blown investigation, with compelling evidence mounting that Beyoncé’s long-awaited “Act III” will be a delve into the world of rock music. Following the dance floor euphoria of “Renaissance” and the country twang of “Cowboy Carter,” fans are now dissecting every clue, and the picture becoming clearer: Queen Bey is about to go full-throttle rock ‘n’ roll.

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Photo Credit: Ig @Beyonce

The “Rock ‘n’ Roll” Merch Drop Seals The Deal

The most undeniable piece of evidence dropped just days ago, on January 24, 2026. Beyoncé’s official website unveiled new Valentine’s Day “Beymine” merchandisea collection that quickly became the subject of intense scrutiny. Eagle-eyed fans immediately zeroed in on the description for the “Bodyguard Choker,” which explicitly stated: “A little rock n roll with a whole lotta sexy.”

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The “May 29” Release Date Theory: A Pattern Emerges

For an artist renowned for her meticulous precision and calculated messaging, a phrase like “rock n roll” in official merchandise copy is far from a coincidence. The Beyhive sees this as the ultimate, unofficial confirmation of the genre for her upcoming act.

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Photo Credit: Ig @Beyonce

Beyond the genre, fans believe they’ve cracked the release date code as well. A pervasive mathematical theory suggests that “Act III” will arrive on Friday, May 29, 2026. This isn’t random speculation; it’s based on a consistent pattern from her previous releases:

  • Act I (Renaissance): Released on Friday, July 29, 2022.
  • Act II (Cowboy Carter): Released on Friday, March 29, 2024.

Both albums dropped on the 29th of the month, always a Friday. Looking ahead to 2026, the only month where the 29th falls on a Friday is May. The consistency is too strong for fans to ignore.

SHOP MERCH: www.Beyonce.com

Why Natural Bar Soap Is Better for Your Skin—and the Planet

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Soap was the first thing I learned to make in the world of natural beauty, and my skin has become so accustomed to the benefits of natural bar soap that everything else makes me itch. If you’re already a natural bar soap believer and just want to buy some gorgeous soap, go check out our body bars, STAT. But if you’ve never tried Osmia soap, or you’re still a body wash believer, perhaps it’ll help to understand why natural bar soap is different and much better for your skin and for the planet.

How Is Natural Bar Soap Made?

The first time I made soap, I understood immediately that the process of creating handmade soap is one where science and art come together. After many hours in the chemistry lab during my premed and medical school years, I knew that the chemistry of soap making would be uncompromising: you goof the recipe, you end up with #notsoap. But once you’ve nailed the science part, the options for creativity with colors, textures, and scent are endless—and endlessly fun.

Bar soap is made by combining oils or solid fats (in our case, plant fats) with lye (sodium hydroxide, or NaOH). The oils are heated, allowing any solid oils like shea butter or coconut oil to melt. Meanwhile, the lye gets added to water to make a solution. When both the oils and the lye are at the right temperature (90-110 degrees Fahrenheit), they are mixed together where they begin to bond together in the process called saponification.

People often ask if we use lye in our soap because many have the impression that lye is a toxic chemical. In fact, lye is used in all soap making—if it’s not made with lye, it’s not technically soap. While lye is manufactured in a laboratory, it’s really just a salt made of sodium, hydrogen, and oxygen, and is “toxic” only because of its high pH. The pH of lye is 14, neutral pH (where our bodies mostly function) is 7, and the pH of hydrochloric acid is zero. If pure lye touches your skin, it will burn the same way pure acid will. This is also the reason your Grandma Louise’s “lye soap” didn’t feel good—she probably made lye-heavy soap, where the ratio of fats to lye was incorrect, leaving leftover lye in the finished bar. As a result, the bar would have had a very high pH, which can irritate the skin.

The good news is that we have our soap science figured out, and even though lye goes into the soap, it’s not present in the final bar because we add a little extra oil to make sure all the lye gets completely used up in the process. This happens when the lye—a sodium molecule, a hydrogen molecule, and an oxygen molecule—gets disassembled and rearranged in cold-process soap, and ends up in soap molecules and glycerin. The soap molecules work by sticking their little tails into grease and dirt, and then letting themselves get rinsed down the drain with the water. The glycerin molecules keep your skin super soft and hydrated.

Is Natural Bar Soap Better Than Conventional Soap?

Handmade soap requires a curing time of about a month to allow water to evaporate from the bar so it hardens appropriately. Large companies don’t have time to wait for their soap to cure, so they remove the skin-softening glycerin and introduce harsh chemical additives to harden their bars. That’s why the general category called “soap” got a bad reputation for being drying. Soap made by the cold-process method does exactly the opposite for your skin—it pulls moisture to your skin all day long.

As a fun little experiment, just google the ingredients for any commercially-produced bar of soap that says it’s for sensitive skin.

Now compare that to the ingredients for Osmia’s Oh So Soap: Saponified organic oils/butters of olive, mango, and castor bean; hand-harvested French grey sea salt; organic rosemary antioxidant, non-GMO mixed tocopherols.

As you can see, we take a less-is-more approach when it comes to sensitive skin. And less is always more for people with sensitive skin.

Bar Soap vs. Body Wash: Which Is Healthier?

Now try the same experiment by googling a commercially-produced body wash marketed to consumers with sensitive skin. We’d bet our bottom dollar that you found there were way more ingredients in the body wash than our Oh So Soap, and it’s likely that some of those body wash ingredients have some health concerns associated with them, such as synthetic fragrance, DMDM hydantoin, and methylisothiazolinone. Plus, body wash comes in a bulky plastic bottle, whereas our bar soap usually comes recyclable paper packaging.

Does Bar Soap Spread Germs?

Some people are concerned about bar soap being unhygienic, but luckily it’s been studied. When you use bar soap properly, using very warm water and a 30-second scrub, you rinse away the top layer as you lather, and the dirt and germs go down the drain. We recommend storing your bar soap on a clean, aerated surface (like our reusable soap-saver) to keep it out of a puddle of soap soup—germs WILL proliferate in standing water. Pro-tip: keeping the soap dry between uses will also help it last for ages.

Why Is Bar Soap Better for the Environment?

Bar soap, especially if it’s packaged by a company like Osmia, is extremely low-impact on the environmental scale when compared with liquid cleansers. Liquid soap usually comes in a plastic bottle, whereas our bar soaps come in recyclable, FSC-certified paper packaging. Liquid cleansers have far more ingredients than bar soap, and require preservatives and synthetic scent to cover the chemical smells, which means more ingredients are swept into the water treatment system or your septic field.

What Are the Benefits of Using Natural Bar Soap?

You use soap every day, on yourself and possibly your family. You use it from head to toe, on practically every inch of your skin. Then it washes down your drain, where it ultimately affects things like fish and birds and worms and flowers. There was a time when choosing natural bar soap meant LESS luxury and more earthy-crunchy-patchouli vibes. But that isn’t true anymore. (Have you looked at the soap page on our website?) So here it is, folks—a small change you can make that will not only help the planet, but will leave your skin beautifully conditioned, and make you feel like you are treating yourself to a tiny luxury every time you pick up a bar. Plus, our bars last forever, so your money goes a long way.

Save your skin AND save the planet? It’s a no-brainer.

With love and lots of soapy suds from us to you,

The information contained in this post is for educational interest only. This information is not intended to be used for diagnosis or treatment of any physical or mental illness, disease, or skin conditions.

First Look At The New Beatles Movies Is Here – And Fans Are All Saying The Same Thing

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On Instagram, Sony Pictures shared the new shots with audiences, writing: “The Beatles. April 2028. Paul Mescal is Paul McCartney; Barry Keoghan is Ringo Starr; Joseph Quinn is George Harrison; Harris Dickinson is John Lennon. The Beatles – A Four-Film Cinematic Event, directed by Sam Mendes.”

Unsurprisingly, many fans responded with excitement at the update – though some noted that we’ll be waiting a while before the first film’s release. “2028?! Damn, we definitely not getting a trailer ’til next year,” one wrote.

Others reacted to the likeness of each actor with their respective Beatle, with many commenting on one in particular. “Oh God. I was scared for Ringo but I should’ve been scared for George,” one wrote, with another adding: “I can’t even find the words to express my disappointment with the casting for George.” Uh oh.

So what else do we know about The Beatles? The project’s logline reads: “Each man has his own story, but together they are legendary,” which explains the four-film decision – with director Sam Mendes saying at last year’s CinemaCon: “Perhaps this is a chance to understand them a little more deeply.”

Of course, there’s so much more to these films’ casts than each Beatle, too, with big names signed up to play the likes of Lynda McCartney and Yoko Ono. Ahead, everything you need to know about The Beatles movies – from casting to release dates, plot lines and more.

When are The Beatles movies out?

As revealed in the latest update from Sony Pictures, The Beatles will be released in April 2028 – an exact date has not yet been confirmed.

This Simple Upper-Body Dumbbell Workout Will Build Strength in Your Arms, Back, and Chest

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If you want to build real upper-body strength, a reliable dumbbell workout is a must. Bodyweight workouts can take you far, but adding resistance with extra weight is what helps strengthen your arms, back, and chest—and stay that way.

Fixed and adjustable dumbbells are a great choice for external load because they’re typically easier to find and less expensive than other types of free weights, like kettlebells and barbells. Adjustable weight options also give you the flexibility to change the amount of weight when you want, and progress without needing to buy new dumbbells. They’re easy to master, even if you’re new to strength training, making them a solid choice for beginner strength exercises.

So, once you’ve committed to dumbbells, what’s the best way to strengthen your upper body? You’ll want a routine filled with compound moves that hit all the major muscles, including your lower and upper chest; upper, mid, and lower back, and the front, middle, and rear of your shoulders, certified personal trainer Francine Delgado-Lugo, CPT, movement and strength coach and cofounder of Form Fitness Brooklyn, tells SELF. For a really comprehensive workout, you’ll also want to include isolation exercises too. These give attention to some of the smaller muscles, like your biceps, triceps, and forearms, she says.

In this upper-body dumbbell workout created by Delgado-Lugo, you’ll target all of these areas. And you’ll focus primarily on two basic movement patterns to get it done: pushing and pulling.

With pushing exercises, you’ll work the front of your body, including your chest, shoulders and triceps. These are the main muscles that help with that pushing motion. Pulling exercises target your lats, lower traps, rhomboids, and biceps. No major muscle group in the upper body will be left untouched with this routine. The key to making this a balanced and effective workout is to use a moderately heavy dumbbell that feels challenging for the number of suggested reps, says Delgado-Lugo.

January Launch Pad: Smart starts in beauty

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Eight Saints debuts Frame Game Eyebrow Growth Serum for daily use

Eight Saints has expanded its eye-area portfolio with the launch of the Frame Game Eyebrow Growth Serum. The product is positioned to support fuller-looking brows and lashes using a formula that combines biotin, amino acids and castor oil to help condition hair fibers and support strand strength.

According to the company, the serum is designed for once-daily application and features a lightweight, fast-absorbing texture intended to avoid residue or stiffness during use.

Eight Saints Frame Game Eyebrow Growth Serum retails on the company’s website and on Amazon for $40.00.

Jes + Lou launches Happy Hair Shampoo and Calm Balm Conditioner targeting family-friendly hair care segment

Jes + Lou has introduced its Happy Hair Hydrating Shampoo and Calm Balm Hydrating Conditioner, expanding the brand’s performance-focused approach to clean hair care. The sulfate- and silicone-free formulas rely on a blend of plant-derived oils and butters, including babassu oil, murumuru butter, flaxseed oil, chia seed extract and coconut oil, to hydrate hair and scalp without buildup.

Designed to be suitable for color-treated hair and everyday use, the shampoo focuses on gentle cleansing while the conditioner adds vitamin B5 and green tea to support strength and shine.

Jes + Lou Happy Hair Hydrating Shampoo retails for $33.00 and the Calm Balm Hydrating Conditioner retails for $35.00 on the company’s website.

Venus updates its Pubic Hair & Skin Collection

Gillette Venus has introduced an updated Pubic Hair & Skin Collection, expanding its intimate grooming portfolio with a three-step regimen designed specifically for the pubic area. The lineup includes a Smoothing Cleanser + Shave Gel, an upgraded Pubic Hair & Skin Razor and a Daily Ingrown Serum.

The redesigned razor incorporates an ergonomic CalmCurve handle, an upgraded Lubrastrip and a two-blade system with an anti-irritation barrier intended to reduce pressure and minimize skin contact during shaving. The collection underscores ongoing investment in specialized tools and formulations for sensitive-skin grooming applications.

Available nationally across mass retailers including Target and Walmart, the collection ranges between $9.99 and $19.99.

Australian Gold introduces cost-effective skincare-suncare hybrid collection

Australian Gold has expanded its portfolio with three new face and body products that combine bronzing, skincare benefits and sun protection in streamlined formats. The launches include a Browning Lotion formulated with tea tree oil, aloe vera and vitamin E for immediate and developing color, alongside two SPF 30 facial serums designed to integrate into daily skincare routines: the Facial Bronzing Serum and Daily Facial Serum.

Both facial offerings emphasize lightweight textures and fragrance-free formulas, with ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, glycerin and green tea extract supporting hydration and antioxidant care while delivering broad-spectrum protection.

Each of Australian Gold’s new launches are priced at $11.99 and retail on the company’s website.

Madison Reed Targets gray coverage between appointments latest launch

Madison Reed released The Gray Escape Hair & Brow Mascara this month, expanding its portfolio of solutions designed to extend time between professional color services. The multitasking product is formulated to temporarily cover grays, define brows and smooth flyaways using a quick-drying, smudge- and transfer-resistant formula.

According to the brand, unlike many hair mascaras on the market, the brand positions the product as residue-free, avoiding the white cast often associated with similar formats while incorporating argan oil and ginseng root extract. Available in five shades ranging from Black to Red, the launch reflects continued interest in targeted, at-home color maintenance tools that support convenience and flexibility for consumers.

Madison Reed’s The Grey Escape Hair & Brow Mascara retails for $17.50 on the company’s website.

ELEMIS expands Pro-Collagen franchise with Hydrating Cleansing Mousse

ELEMIS has added to its Pro-Collagen range with the launch of Pro-Collagen Hydrating Cleansing Mousse. According to the brand, the cream-to-mousse cleanser is clinically shown to increase skin hydration by 125% after one use while removing makeup, SPF and daily impurities without compromising the skin barrier.

The formula features Padina Pavonica ferment produced through biotechnology, earth marine water and the prebiotic inulin to support hydration, purification and barrier function. The cleanser also incorporates a blend of nine essential oils to deliver a spa-inspired cleansing experience.

ELEMIS Pro-Collagen Hydrating Mousse retails for $60.00 on the company website.

Dionis introduces Goat Milk Body Butter Line

Dionis Goat Milk Skincare has expanded its portfolio with the launch of a Goat Milk Body Butter collection. The intensive body butter is formulated with goat milk to support barrier repair and hydration for dry and sensitive skin, offering a rich yet fast-absorbing texture intended for targeted use on high-impact areas such as elbows, knees and heels.

“Goat milk’s natural compatibility with human skin is what makes it such a powerful yet gentle skincare ingredient,” said Karen Minsky, president of Dionis Goat Milk Skincare in a press announcement, adding that the new body butter was developed to deliver deep hydration while remaining comfortable for sensitive skin types. The new launch is available in multiple fragrances including Vanilla Bean, Sea Treasures, Milk & Honey and Lavender Blossom as well as an unscented option.

The Dionis Goat Milk Body Butter collection retails on the company’s website for $25.00.

Behold, the French Manicure Trends of 2026

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If you were a fly on the wall at the Allure office in the early 2010s, you likely heard editors talking about the French manicure—but not the way we do now. The look, characterized by an arc along the tip of the nail, “was always on the ‘tacky list’ of every story,” says Sophia Panych, who was our staff assistant at the time and is now our content director. “I learned quickly that the senior team considered a French manicure très gauche.”

“French manicures were for porn stars, Jersey girls, or bottle blondes with blue eye shadow,” adds David Denicolo, a longtime contributor and former editor-at-large of our print issue. Back in the day, he polled editors on what they thought of the look for a story. “It was just a snapshot of a moment,” he recalls. Miss Pop, an editorial nail artist who has keyed fashion shows for more than two decades, watched the look fall from its elite status: It was “a display of wealth, but not a display of class,” she says.

In retrospect, these notions were unfair all around—toward nail art lovers, manicurists, and sex workers. “The French manicure has such a dazzling history,” Panych says. Here’s a refresher: Manicurist Jeff Pink created the look in 1975 for his clients in California (no, not France). He wanted a style that Hollywood starlets could wear throughout an entire production, even across multiple wardrobe changes. Also, the skin-tone-colored base of the look made it easy to hide any grow-out from the camera.

The look went on to inspire multiple generations of nail artists. “When I was a kid, I spent every waking minute trying to figure out how to do a French manicure,” says Miss Pop. “I’ve spent so much of my career reimagining it—it’s hard not to. It’s the most natural shape you can possibly do.”

Nail artist Elle Gerstein, whose clients have included Michelle Williams, Kate Hudson, and Shay Mitchell, says the French manicure helped her stand out in the industry. “I’ve been doing nails since 1988, and the French was the look my clients requested most. Then J.Lo—who was not [known as] J.Lo at the time—saw my work and wanted the pink-and-whites she’d seen at her salon in Manhattan.” For a red carpet event in 1999, Jennifer Lopez asked Gerstein for the manicure, and it ultimately made headlines.

From there, the look made its way to concert venues. “Barbra Streisand is known for her long nails, often shaped round or almond, and she frequently wore a thick white French tip that became part of her signature beauty look,” says Jin Soon Choi, nail artist and brand founder, of what she recalls as one of the most memorable French manis. Its popularity even reached Buckingham Palace, where it became Princess Diana’s go-to nail art.

As with all trends, though, people got tired of French manicures. Let’s go back to the Allure office in the early 2010s—remember, you’re a fly on the wall, listening to editors put together a magazine. “The 2010s were a time when you had to fight to get nail art into the magazine,” Panych remembers of making the case for nail art in print pages. “It was really the focus on nail decoration—and the idea of nails as an art form—that helped steer the conversation away from it being tacky.” The French manicure managed to make a comeback, regaining real traction before the global shutdown—and continues to be a mainstay.

The French manicure has evolved with the times and survived trend fatigue, thanks to how adaptable it is. Today, though, the look isn’t about having nails that match every outfit. Choi says it best: “The French manicure [of 2026] feels fresh, artistic, and less ‘perfect.’ It’s about playful interpretations, tonal pairings, and unexpected textures.” Ahead, artists interpret the look for 2026.