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3 Benefits of CBD in Beauty Products

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First, let’s tackle the top questions about CBD when it comes to beauty: What is CBD, and will it get me high if I use CBD beauty products?

CBD is a natural compound derived from the cannabis plant. Heralded for its restorative power for all skin types, including acne-prone and sensitive skin, CBD is proven to help reduce inflammation and support the skin’s natural healing process. That’s why we’ve added award-winning CBD-infused skincare and hair care brands to our Camera Ready family!

Now, as far as if CBD Beauty products will get you high. The answer is no. CBD is one of 100+ cannabinoids (chemical compound found in hemp plants) that stabilizes the body and helps maintain health. You’ll find traces of CBD in marijuana, but CBD alone is non-psychoactive and legal to purchase in an isolated form.

The cannabinoid compound infamously known to get you high is called THC. This particular plant derivative is responsible for the psychoactive effects of marijuana.

*Disclaimer – As with any big change in your skincare or hair care regimen that focuses on ingredients, if you are pregnant or nursing, or if you’re reading this article to decide if you’d like to use this product on a child, we highly recommend checking with your doctor first.

The 3 Hair Routines That Can Help You Feel Like Yourself Again

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Before the world starts asking things of you, there’s usually a moment where you can have a little time for yourself. It might be early morning before the house wakes up, or later at night once the day has finally softened.

You reach for your brush, maybe a clip, or maybe nothing at all. And for a second, you’re not performing for anyone. You’re just…there, with yourself.

That moment may be small, but we all know how sacred it is.

“Getting ready” has always looked like a task on paper. But for many women, especially during seasons of change (postpartum shifts, perimenopause, stress, shedding, thinning, or just life showing up in unexpected ways), it becomes something else entirely.

A grounding practice, a way of returning to the version of yourself you actually recognize,  or a quiet ritual where you can choose ease, confidence, and how you want to feel before you step back into the world.

Below, we have three rituals inspired by real life: the mornings that feel rushed or unpredictable, the evenings where you want to restore instead of perform, and the moments you want to feel your most elevated.

Each one is simple, gentle, and intentionally designed to help you feel like yourself again.

The Everyday Ease Hair Ritual

There are mornings when your hair doesn’t match your mood, or when you wake up already feeling behind. Maybe hormones are shifting. Maybe shedding has made your once-predictable hair feel unfamiliar. Maybe you just haven’t slept well and everything feels like too much!

These are the times when predictability matters, not in a strict, perfectly planned way, but in a supportive way that brings you back to your center.

Why It Matters

When your hair is thinning or behaving in ways it never used to, it’s easy to feel discouraged. Even something as simple as parting your hair can suddenly become a reminder of everything that’s changing.

This ritual is designed to offer a sense of calm and control. A small, repeatable process that helps you reconnect with yourself before the day starts.

How to Build This Routine

Product: The Halo

1. Create a calm physical space

The best thing about this routine is that you don’t need a full vanity setup. Simply adding soft lighting, a candle, or a favorite playlist can instantly shift the energy. The goal is a little pocket of calm.

2. Slip on The Halo for instant fullness

The Halo works especially well on mornings that feel unpredictable because it adds volume without tension. No pulling, no pins digging in, no extra effort. Just an instant, “Oh, there you are.”

3. Brush through gently and breathe

Let your shoulders drop and unclench your jaw. This is where the best part happens as you start to feel more like yourself.

4. Finish with a simple texture spray or hair part that feels natural to you

Maybe it’s a soft bend or your classic straight-and-simple look. Trust what feels like you today.

Tip: Focus on blending the mid-lengths with the hair extensions. Small tweaks will make everything look seamless and naturally you.

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Read Next: The Secrets to Keeping Halo Extensions Looking (and Feeling) Like New

The Hair Reset Ritual

Some evenings are meant for tuning out the noise. If your hair feels dry or fragile from styling, or it looks dull and dead from a long week of doing crazy hairstyles, this routine is your invitation to slow down.

Why It Matters

Women dealing with breakage, dryness, fatigue, or literal hair burnout benefit from routines that are gentle and forgiving. Overdid the heat styling? This routine gives your hair a break while you sleep, while still guaranteeing you’ll wake up to gorgeous hair without all that effort.

How to Build This Routine

Product: Satin Heatless Curlers

1. Slow down your space

Dim the lights, put on something soft and comfortable, and let your room signal that this is a transition moment.

2. Apply Heatless Curlers on damp hair

Blow-dry your hair on the cool setting until it’s 70-80% dry. Apply the Heatless Curlers at this stage so there’s enough moisture to set the waves and bends in. Since it’s almost dry, you won’t have to worry about it staying wet for hours before hitting the sheets!

3. Wrap slowly and intentionally

There’s something deeply calming about this step. It’s tactile, repetitive, and surprisingly meditative. Let your hands move at a pace that feels unhurried.

4. Let your hair set while you rest

Time to relax! Read a little, stretch, watch your comfort show, or meditate. It’s the perfect time to let the Heatless Curlers do the bulk of the work while you relax.

Tip: Wrap your pillow in a silk or satin pillowcase to protect your hair. This, combined with the Heatless Curlers, will gently set and minimize frizz and friction overnight.

[product item=2]

Read Next: Why the Halo Is a NYFW Stylist’s Secret Weapon

The Event-Ready Hair Ritual

Then there are the fun moments: birthdays, weddings, dinners, celebrations, or even a spontaneous night out. These are the nights you want to step into the most confident version of yourself. Not because you need to fix anything, but because you want to amplify what’s already there!

This routine is all about choosing the energy you want to bring into the room.

Why It Matters

If you’re experiencing renewed confidence after undergoing major hair changes, “getting ready” for an event is its own form of empowerment. It’s where you shift from everyday mode to elevated mode. It’s where you say: “I want to feel my best, and I deserve to feel that way.”

How to Build This Routine

Product: The Halo

1. Set the mood

Warm lighting? A “main character” playlist? Do something that makes you feel a little electric inside.

2. Use a Halo for all-over fullness or shape

Halo extensions are perfect for giving you extra fullness and length.  Plus, they’re easy, and buildable. Consider stacking your Halos the next time you have a big event!

3. Style with intention.

Want soft waves? A polished pony? Or an elevated half-up? Choose a style that makes you stand taller, the kind that changes how you walk in the door.

4. Take a moment in the mirror.

It sounds small, but this can help ground you. Look at yourself and acknowledge the version of you you’re choosing to show up as today.

Tip: Before heading out the door, make sure to subject your new extensions to some “extreme” tests, like jumping up and down, to make sure they’re secured on your head.

Read Next: How To Go From Blonde To Bronde Without Wrecking Your Hair

Choose Which Ritual Works for You

No matter what stage of life you’re in (postpartum, perimenopause, rediscovering yourself after big changes, or simply wanting to elevate your everyday), your ritual is yours. It doesn’t have to be elaborate or perfect. It doesn’t even have to be the same every day.

Some days you’ll crave ease, others restoration, and some days elevation. What matters is that it becomes the place where you meet yourself first.

When you take those few minutes to reconnect with yourself and, through simple steps that feel good, you’re not just doing your hair. You’re shaping your energy. You’re grounding your confidence. You’re reminding yourself that you’re allowed to feel like you again.

And that’s more than a routine. That’s something you carry into the rest of your life. Discover more confidence-boosting routines that suit your needs.

Find more hair routines that’ll suit you here:

Struggling to Find Your Colours in Summer (or Winter)? — Inside Out Style

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Ever found yourself wandering the shops, feeling completely uninspired by what’s on offer? You know your colours, you’ve done the work – but suddenly everything on the racks is beige, black, or bright orange. None of it suits you, and all of it feels like a compromise.

This was exactly Helen’s dilemma: “My challenge is finding the right colours for my summer wardrobe when they aren’t current fashions.”

If you have light colouring, you may find winter shopping harder as there are fewer light colours, and conversely, those with dark colouring often find summertime harder to shop for as the stores fill with light pastel colours that do them no favours.

If you’ve ever felt boxed in by what’s “in season”, it’s not because there’s something wrong with your style – it’s because the system is set up to push trends, not support individuality.

The good news? You’re not limited to what the big stores are offering right now.

You have options – more than you might think.

1. Thrift and Secondhand Stores

Thrift shops are a treasure hunt – and yes, it can be hit and miss. But unlike mainstream retail, secondhand racks aren’t restricted by season or trends. Every colour under the sun shows up here. If you’re willing to scan the rails with a discerning eye, you’ll often find hidden gems in your colours, cuts and fabrics – sometimes from quality brands, and always at a fraction of the price.  Here are my tips on how to thrift like a stylist.

2. Online Consignment and Resale

Platforms like eBay, Depop, and speciality online consignment stores give you access to a global wardrobe. You can filter by colour, fabric, size, and style. These aren’t governed by seasonal collections, so you’re far more likely to find that teal linen blouse or soft rose wrap dress – even if it’s nowhere to be seen in the shops right now.

3. Outlet Stores and Discount Retailers

Outlet centres and stores like TK Maxx (or TJ Maxx in the US), Marshalls, and similar discount retailers often carry past-season stock. That means greater variety in both colour and style. You’re not forced into this season’s palette – you can access colours that align with your personal colour analysis, rather than the colour of the year.

4. Sew Your Own (or Have It Made)

If you sew, you already know the freedom this gives you. You can choose fabrics in your colours and patterns that flatter your shape, and create garments that actually fit your body – not some marketing department’s fit model.

But if you don’t sew? Find a local dressmaker. It doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. A custom piece in your colours and your fit can be life-changing – especially if you’ve spent years settling for “good enough” in the fitting room.

make it yourself if you can't find it in the stores

This is a skirt I made after not being able to find a comfy grey skirt in stores.

5. Dye It

Summer’s fashions are full of lightweight fabrics like cotton and linen, which also happen to be perfect for dyeing. If you can’t find a top in your colours, look for a white one in a natural fibre and dye it to suit. This is especially useful for filling wardrobe gaps in a pinch, or making use of clothes you already own but no longer wear.  I’ve also had clients remove the dye, particularly from dark and black garments, then overdye on top to a colour that works.  Check out my posts on overdying for more tips.

6. Look Beyond Your Local Mall

Don’t underestimate the power of a wider search. Many online stores, especially those outside your own country, offer broader colour ranges. When you’re not locked into what’s available in a five-kilometre radius, your options open up massively.  Do internet searches using the kind of fabric you’re after, and even the colour, and see what pops up.  You may be surprised that there is something you love available.

One Step at a Time

Having your palette is the first step in building a wardrobe of clothes that work together easily, mix and match seamlessly and make you truly shine.  Finding them in stores is the next step; there are definitely ways of doing this. And it’s important to remember that the best wardrobes are built over time (not overnight).  Each season, one or two of your colours will be around; just look at those rather than shopping with a fixed mindset about what you’re after.

It’s worth taking the time, as you’ll truly end up with a wardrobe full of clothes you love to wear.

Make Sure You’re Using Your Palette Correctly

Frequently, I see women attempting to match colours exactly and dismissing anything that is not an exact match.  This is not how to use your palette; instead, it’s about finding the same close family to the colours in your palette – check out my tips here.

Otherwise, you could be easily overlooking many items that would work for you, making shopping that much harder and more frustrating.

Make sure you're using your colour palette correctly fo find clothes that matchThe Real Problem Isn’t You – It’s the System

Most mainstream retailers are catering to trend cycles, not to personal expression. That’s why it can feel like everything’s wrong when the colour season shifts. But your wardrobe doesn’t need to follow the retail calendar.

In fact, the more aligned you are with your authentic colours and style, the less relevant trends become. You stop chasing what’s new and start curating what’s right – for you, your body, your energy, and your life.

If, like Helen, you’re frustrated by what’s on the racks, remember this: your style doesn’t need permission from the fashion industry. You can create a wardrobe that works for you, not against you – no matter what season it is.

Before you give up or buy something you’ll regret, explore these alternative paths. Chances are, what you’re looking for is already out there – just not where the mainstream wants you to look.

How to Determine the Best Colours that Match Your Colour Palette

Struggling with Mixed-Colour Patterns? Here’s How to Choose Right Ones for Your Colour Palette

Mastering Undertones: Choosing Colours and Patterns That Work With Your Palette

Vintage and Second-Hand Fashion: Finding Hidden Gems

Struggling to Find Your Colours in Summer (or Winter)

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DIY Gift Box Soap | Hello Glow

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There’s something so satisfying about giving handmade gifts during the holidays, and these DIY gift box soaps are my new favorites to make. They look like tiny wrapped presents, complete with a “bow” made from soap curls on top. Not to mention, they’re adorable, they smell amazing, and they’re super easy to whip up, even if you’re not the “crafty” type.

The best part? These soaps are basically just melt and pour base and mica, which makes them totally beginner-friendly and inexpensive (say it with me: we’re keeping the holidays simple this year).

You don’t need any fancy equipment or special skills, just a few supplies and a bit of patience. The soap curls on top are what really make them stand out, and once you get the hang of it (this post will help!), you can customize them with different colors and scents to match your holiday theme.

  • Clear melt and pour soap base — I like using clear base because it gives you a translucent, glassy look that lets you see the colors and glitter inside.
  • Mica — A non-toxic colorant, mica is safe for skin and blends really well into melt and pour soap base. It also creates a swirly, marble-like effect as the soap cools. I used purple-red and a dark turquoise for mine.
  • Glitter — While not totally necessary, glitter adds extra shimmer to your soap curls so they look like fancy ribbons. I used mica-based glitter rather than traditional plastic glitter because I thought it would less scratchy and it wouldn’t pollute our waterways once it goes down the drain.
  • Essential oils — Cinnamon, clove, pine, cedarwood, sweet orange, peppermint or vanilla essential oils make for perfect holiday scents, but you can use any fragrance that makes you happy.
  • Spray bottle with rubbing alcohol — Spritz this on freshly poured soap to get rid of air bubbles and between layers to help everything stick together.
  • Vegetable peeler — It’s the easiest tool for getting those thin, ribbon-like curls. If you don’t have a vegetable peeler, check out this post [insert link for to How to Make Curls post] for different methods you can use to make your curls.
  • Square silicone mold — You’ll need square single-cavity soap molds to create the gift box shape.
  • Heat-proof measuring cup — A glass measuring cup with a pour spout makes melting and pouring your soap a lot easier.
  • Large microwave-safe bowl — This is handy if you’re melting a bigger batch of soap or if you need extra room to mix in your mica and fragrance.
  • Kitchen thermometer — It’s important to know how hot your soap is when working in layers. I recommend keeping the soap aroun 140 F to prevent it from melting the ribbons or curls.

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Ribbons

Start by melting clear soap base and adding gold mica to create one thin square of soap for cutting into ribbon strips, plus one thicker block that you’ll use later when peeling the curls.

cutting clear melt and pour soap into cubes to meltcutting clear melt and pour soap into cubes to melt

Step 1: Cut Soap

Cut 3 ounces of clear soap base into 1-inch cubes and place them in a microwave-safe measuring cup.

Step 2: Melt & Add Glitter

Melt the soap in the microwave in 30-second bursts, stir after each. When melted, add the glitter and stir again.

Pouring gold soap into a square soap moldPouring gold soap into a square soap mold

Step 3: Pour Soap

Pour about 0.5 ounce of soap into one of the mold compartments. This thin square will make the ribbon strips. Pour the rest of the soap into another mold compartment to make a thicker block for the curls you’ll make later.

Spritzing soap molds with alcohol to remove bubblesSpritzing soap molds with alcohol to remove bubbles

Step 4: Remove Bubbles

Spritz everything with rubbing alcohol to get rid of surface bubbles, then let the soap harden completely.

Cutting gold soap into thin ribbonsCutting gold soap into thin ribbons

Step 5: Cut Ribbon Strips

Once everything is set, cut the thin square into four strips.

Placing soap ribbons into blue soap moldPlacing soap ribbons into blue soap mold

Step 6: Add Ribbon to Soap Mold

Take 2 of the strips and place one on top of the other to make a plus sign. Trim off the part where they overlap in the middle so they’ll lay flat in the mold (don’t worry, the seam will get covered up by soap curls).

Step 2: Make the Boxes

The soap “boxes” require two separate pours, which helps keep the ribbons in place and prevents them from floating around.

adding essential oil to melted soapadding essential oil to melted soap

Step 1: Melt + Color Soap

Melt 4 ounces of clear soap base in the microwave. Stir in your mica color and add essential oil.

Pouring red soap into a silicon soap mold for gift box soapsPouring red soap into a silicon soap mold for gift box soaps

Step 2: Cover Ribbons

Let the soap cool to about 140 degrees F. Press the ribbon strips firmly into the bottom of your mold so they stay put, then pour just enough soap to cover them.

Spritz soap with alcohol to remove bubblesSpritz soap with alcohol to remove bubbles

Step 3: Remove Bubbles + Cool

Spritz with alcohol and let cool. Once that first layer has cooled, spray with alcohol again.

Adding more red soap to fill square soap moldAdding more red soap to fill square soap mold

Step 4: Fill Soap Mold

Pour in the remaining soap to fill the rest of the mold. You might need to heat it again to remelt it. Spritz one more time, then let it cool completely.

Step 3: Attach the Soap Curls

Use a vegetable peeler to shave thin curls from the thick gold block you made earlier and stack them on top of your gift box to create a clustered ribbon effect.

Using vegetable peeler to cut soap curlsUsing vegetable peeler to cut soap curls

Step 1: Shave Soap

Take the thick gold square you set aside earlier and use a vegetable peeler to shave off thin ribbons of soap.

Rolling soap pieces into curl shapesRolling soap pieces into curl shapes

Step 2: Curl Soap

If they don’t naturally curl on their own, roll them with your fingers to create the curled ribbon shape.

Step 3: Attach Curls

Melt about 1 ounce of clear soap in a shallow glass or bowl. Dip the corner of one curl into the melted soap and place it on top of the gift box. Keep stacking curls until you’ve built a little cluster that looks like a bow.

You can also pour clear melted soap base over the curl cluster or dip the curl cluster in melted soap to create a protective shell over it and help the curls hold their shape.

Substitutions

  • Clear melt and pour base — You don’t have to use clear soap if you don’t want to. You can swap it for white, goat milk, shea butter, or aloe bases depending on the look you’re going for. Each one will give you a slightly different finish and feel.
  • Soap curls — You don’t need to make fresh curls every time. Any leftover soap scraps can be shaved with a peeler and turned into curls. You can also use premade embeds if you want to save time.
  • Vegetable peeler — Use a paring knife or a cheese planer instead. They’ll give you slightly different curl shapes, but they both work.
  • Kitchen thermometer — Just rely on visual cues (or a finger, if you’re brave). If the soap is warm but not steaming, and it hasn’t formed a skin on top yet, you’re good to go.
  • Rubbing alcohol spray — Gently tap the mold on the counter to release bubbles. It’s not as effective as alcohol, but it works in a pinch.

Top Tip

Prep all your curls and tools before you start making the boxes. Melt and pour soap cools fast and forms a thin film on top pretty quickly, so this project moves at warp speed once you get going.

Storage

Once your DIY gift box soaps are finished, wrap each one individually in plastic wrap to keep humidity out and prevent the colorant from smudging or bleeding. Store them in a cool, dry cupboard away from direct light. Light can fade the colors over time, especially if you used brighter micas.

For long-term storage, place the wrapped soaps in an airtight container (preferably with silica packets to keep sweating to a minimum).

If you’re planning to gift them later and notice the soap has developed condensation, just unwrap it and polish the surface with a soft cloth before wrapping it back up.

FAQ

Can I use cold process soap instead?

Not for this specific project. Cold process soap behaves differently, and the curls won’t work the same way. Melt and pour is really the best option here.

How long do these soaps last?

They’ll last up to a year when wrapped and stored correctly. Just keep them away from heat and humidity.

Do I have to add fragrance?

No, fragrance is totally optional. If you’d rather keep your soaps unscented, that’s perfectly fine.

DIY Melt and Pour Gift Box Soaps

These festive gift box soaps look like tiny wrapped presents, complete with overlapping gold ribbons and soap curl bows on top. And since they’re made with melt and pour soap, they make perfect last-minute holiday gifts.

Prep Time1 hour

Cooling Time4 hours

Total Time5 hours

Course: Bath and Body Soap

Keyword: DIY, holiday gifts, soap

Yield: 2 soaps

Author: Stephanie Pollard

Cost: $10

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Ribbons

  • Cut 3 ounces of clear soap base into 1-inch cubes and place them in a measuring cup.

  • Melt the soap in the microwave, then stir in the glitter until it’s fully mixed.

  • Pour about 0.5 ounces of soap into one of the mold compartments. Pour the rest of the soap into another mold compartment to make a thicker block.

  • Spritz everything with rubbing alcohol to get rid of surface bubbles, then let the soap harden completely.

  • Take the thin square and cut it into 4 strips.

  • Take 2 of the strips and place one on top of the other to make a plus sign. Trim off the part where they overlap in the middle so they’ll lay flat in the mold (don’t worry, the seam will get covered up by soap curls).

Step 2: Make the Boxes

  • Melt 4 ounces of clear soap base in the microwave. Stir in your mica color and add essential oil if you’re using it.

  • Let the soap cool to about 140 degrees F. Press the ribbon strips firmly into the bottom of your mold so they stay put, then pour just enough soap over them to cover.

  • Spritz with alcohol and let cool.

  • Once that first layer has cooled, spray it with alcohol again and fill the rest of the cavity with soap. Spritz one more time, then let it cool completely.

Step 3: Make Soap Curls

  • Take the thick gold square you set aside earlier and use a vegetable peeler to shave off thin ribbons of soap.

  • Use your fingers to roll the soap into curls.

  • Melt about 1 ounce of clear soap in a shallow glass or bowl. Dip the corner of one curl into the melted soap and place it on top of the gift box. Keep stacking curls until you’ve built a little cluster that looks like a bow.

Notes

Pour clear melted soap base over the curl cluster or dip the curl cluster in melted soap to create a protective shell over it and help the curls hold their shape.

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Egg Freezing Worsened My Urinary Incontinence—and I’m Not Alone

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For as long as I can remember, I’ve peed my pants a little. There was the time in high school when I tried on a ridiculous Halloween costume with my friend and laughed so hard I emptied my bladder right there in the dressing room. Then, in college, after a night out, the metaphorical seal started breaking before I could get through my apartment door. And again, almost two years ago, when the water I was constantly drinking to stay hydrated during a nasty cold partially leaked out with every cough.

There’s a term for this: urinary incontinence—or a loss of bladder control. And for 17 years, I refused to admit I was among the 61% of American women who have it, because for me, the issue was sporadic. But my incontinence began to worsen as I barreled into my early 30s. I’d more frequently have the sudden urge to go while making my way home or as I walked through my front door, and I wasn’t always able to stop some leakage. It became something I regularly had to think about and plan for, like remembering to use the bathroom before leaving a restaurant.

I finally went to see a urologist two years ago. There was nothing to be concerned about according to the tests he ran, but he prescribed Oxybutynin to help decrease the muscle spasms causing my frequent urges. I was to take it three times a day as needed, but, he added, I should probably see a pelvic floor therapist—a physical therapist who specializes in pelvic floor dysfunction and treats conditions like incontinence and pain.

I put it off, partly due to limited coverage with my health insurance plan at the time. The turning point came on a 40-minute trek home from dinner and drinks with friends. I leaked little by little, nearly emptying my bladder by the time I reached my apartment door. This time was different; it wasn’t preceded by an overwhelming urge to go. It felt like I had completely lost control.

Turns out, there might be a reason for my intensified symptoms. I had just undergone a second round of egg freezing. When I told my pelvic floor therapist that during my first appointment a few weeks later, she nodded knowingly. I was one of several clients who had come to her with new or worsened incontinence issues following an egg retrieval (a medical procedure to extract eggs from the ovaries through a thin needle), often their second or third.

Bodily changes that come with egg freezing can cause urinary incontinence symptoms.

Nearly one-third of women experience pelvic floor dysfunction. Multiple factors can play a role, including increased weight, pregnancy, heavy lifting, obesity, aging, childbirth, and hormonal shifts, Asima Ahmad, MD, MPH, FACOG, DABOM, co-founder and Chief Medical Officer of Carrot Fertility tells SELF. When you freeze your eggs or undergo IVF, you typically take medication to stimulate the ovaries so you produce multiple mature eggs. The process causes several bodily changes that can lead to of urinary incontinence symptoms, says Ahmad.

P&G Flags Sharp U.S. Category Declines as Consumer Weakness Weighs on Q2 Outlook

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THE WHAT? Procter & Gamble has cautioned that U.S. sales across key categories it competes in fell significantly in October and are expected to show similar declines for November, signalling pressure on consumer spending ahead of the holiday period.

THE DETAILS Speaking at a Morgan Stanley conference, P&G CFO Andre Schulten reported that category sales in the U.S. were down meaningfully in both volume and value, describing the environment as the most volatile the company has seen in years. Schulten pointed to a combination of more cautious consumers, intensified competitive activity, and unexpected macro factors, including a government shutdown and disruptions to SNAP food assistance, as contributors to the downturn. While the weakness is expected to weigh more heavily on the current quarter than on full-year performance, the comments prompted share declines across P&G and several peers. Schulten also reiterated the company’s continued interest in bolt-on acquisitions, citing Native as a successful example, and noted ongoing focus on scaling smaller health and beauty brands in the US$50 million to US$150 million range.

THE WHY? The update highlights mounting category-level pressure in the U.S. mass market, underscoring a more challenging near-term demand landscape for beauty, personal care and household brands dependent on value-sensitive consumers.

Source: Bloomberg

Colorful Eyeshadow Looks for Spring

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Spring is here and it’s time to put away our winter neutrals and break out some of that color! That can be intimidating for people like me who tend to steer clear of colorful eye shadow palettes. What colors do I choose? Where should they go? Generally speaking, I tend to go for more neutral single shades—something a little easier and harder to mess up. So, for the month of April, I challenged myself to welcome color into my life.

Colorful Eyeshadow Looks

Spring Eye Shadow Look #1

First I started with the Solar Flare PurePressed Eye Shadow Palette. This palette is a great balance of neutrals with a pop of color and the perfect first step to dipping my toes into this color challenge. The shades went on so smoothly and complements my complexion well. I used Sunspot on the lid, Flash on the outer corner, Cosmic for a soft liner to define the eye and Orbit for a pop of color on the lower lash line.

Spring Eye Shadow Look #2

jane iredale pink quartz purepressed eye shadow triple

Next up we had Pink Quartz PurePressed Eye Shadow Triple. The shades went so well with my eye color. This trio makes creating a look SO simple and I received so many compliments throughout the day. Pink Quartz ended up being my favorite palette of the three I tried. I paired it with Enchanted Glow Time Blush Stick for the perfect flushed look.

Spring Eye Shadow Look #3

jane iredale blue hour purepressed eye shadow triple

At first glance, Blue Hour PurePressed Triple was daunting. When I saw three shades and one of them was black, I was pretty intimidated!  But, I was pleasantly surprised when I tried this trio for the first time. I started by spraying my Deluxe Shader Brush with some Hydration Spray to grab a little more pigment. Instead of using the medium shade as the base, I opted for the lightest grey/blue and framed my lids with the other remaining shades. There were so many possible combinations for a variety of looks, I realized how creative I could be!

Lesson learned: You don’t need a special occasion to wear color! I loved having an opportunity to see how these can work in everyday look and how simple applying vibrant shades can be. Giving myself the gift of color was the perfect confidence boost and now I’m ready for Spring!

Holiday Self-Care Tips with OLAPLEX – OLAPLEX Inc.

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Key Takeaways

  • Prioritize holiday self-care by setting aside time to de-stress, recharge, and maintain balance so you can give your best to others.
  • Incorporate simple winter self-care routines like OLAPLEX treatments or nourishing hair masks to strengthen, hydrate, and protect hair during the busy season.
  • Turn everyday holiday tasks—shopping, cooking, or wrapping gifts—into opportunities for self-care with easy, at-home OLAPLEX hair treatments.

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As the holiday season approaches, let’s try something different this year. While the season calls for goodwill toward others and giving, remember to put yourself first. This may sound counterintuitive, but it’s only by taking care of yourself that you’ll be able to be your best for others. This means time to unwind, de-stress, and strap your boots on for the holiday season. These holiday self-care tips will help you maintain balance and shine, inside and out.

As a company dedicated to healthy hair from the inside out, it should be no surprise that OLAPLEX wants every user to experience well-being inside and out. Acts of care for yourself inspire the care you put into everything you do. Whether it’s taking time for a much-needed night on the couch or pampering yourself for the day simply because you’re worth it, challenge yourself this holiday season to not once but regularly check in for self-care.

“I don’t have time for self-care today,” or the notion that showing yourself acts of love will take too long, might just be anxiety talking. When one incorporates and prioritizes wellness acts into their routine, they can see just how simple it can be. You can choose to show up for yourself for five minutes one day, or all day—there are no rules here! Even small acts of cold-weather self-care, like a nourishing hair mask or warm tea, count.

To help you relax during the season of go-go-go, we want to remind you of ways you can work on yourself while you think of others. We know you still have to make it to those shops before they close, we know you’re busy, and we want to help take the edge off by coming along for the ride. We all have to do things during this season to prepare for the holidays; here are some of the most common stressors and how OLAPLEX can help brighten the experience:

Holiday Shopping

Most of us have to do it. Whether you’re online shopping or picking up gifts at the store, maximize your time by treating yourself to healthy hair. For winter self-care, do the intensive OLAPLEX treatment at home with N°.0 Intensive Bond Building Treatment and Nº.3 Hair Perfector® to rebuild your hair from the inside out. If you have hours of errands or online shopping to do, leave the treatment on and style your hair slicked back, in braids, or a bun. In between errands, you might also want to try OLAPLEX N°.7 Bonding Oil™ for instant shine and protection. OLAPLEX Nº.7 Bonding Oil™ will also boost color vibrancy, softness, and tame frizz and flyaways so you can feel your best while you shop for your loved ones. Once you’re ready, shampoo and condition the treatment out with N°.4 Bond Maintenance® Shampoo and N°.5 Bond Maintenance Conditioner. If you’re noticing lots of buildup in your hair, try a clarifying shampoo like N°.4C Bond Maintenance® Clarifying Shampoo. This deeply cleansing yet gentle and color-safe clarifying shampoo removes heavy metals, hard water minerals, chlorine, pollutants, product buildup, and excess oil that can cause dull, discolored hair.

Cooking or Baking for Friends, Family, or Roommates

We know holiday meals can mean a day in the kitchen in your sweatpants. Why not elevate a day of deliciousness by working on your hair to make it just as snack-worthy as your holiday supper? Opt for an OLAPLEX N°.0 and N°.3 Hair Perfector® treatment for intensive bond building, or try a hair mask that hydrates hair and prevents breakage, like the Rich Hydration Mask or the Weightless Nourishing Mask. Not sure which hair mask is right for you? If you have fine to medium hair, the Weightless Nourishing Mask will provide lightweight hydration through 5 washes* while reducing and preventing breakage. It’ll also give your hair instant volume that lasts all day. To use the Weightless Nourishing Mask:

  1. Start with a shampoo that’s made for fine hair, like N°.4FINE Bond Maintenance® Shampoo. This volumizing shampoo for fine hair is clinically proven to strengthen, repair, and prevent future damage from everyday elements, styling, or salon services.
  2. Apply the mask to wet hair, focusing on the mid-lengths to ends of your hair.
  3. Leave it on for 3-5 minutes, then rinse.

Those with medium to coarse hair should try the Rich Hydration Mask. This mask also provides instant hydration that lasts through 5 washes.** It even strengthens hair and provides all-day, humidity-resistant frizz control, keeping strands smooth when the kitchen heats up during baking or cooking. Simply apply the mask to wet hair after rinsing with N°.4 Bond Maintenance Shampoo. Leave the Rich Hydration Mask on for 3-5 minutes, then rinse it out.

Wrapping Presents and Decorating

We can’t teach you how to wrap like a professional, but we can repair your hair like one. If you have a cozy day at home wrapping presents or decorating, consider it back-to-back treatment time with OLAPLEX to rebuild bonds and moisturize simultaneously! Start with an intensive pre-bond-building treatment with OLAPLEX N°.0 and N°.3 Hair Perfector®, then rinse with N°.4 Bond Maintenance® Shampoo and condition with N°.5 Bond Maintenance® Conditioner. Once you get out of the shower, take care of your scalp with N°.0.5 Scalp Longevity Treatment. This weightless scalp serum immediately hydrates and soothes the scalp as it protects against accelerated scalp aging to promote hair health over time. You can apply it to your scalp using the needlenose applicator before styling wet hair or as an overnight treatment on dry hair.

Next, apply No.6 Bond Smoother® to damp hair to soften, smooth, and hydrate it while controlling frizz.

To make holiday shopping easier, explore OLAPLEX gift sets. These curated gift sets have everything you need to give your loved ones stronger, shinier, and healthier hair through the holiday season and beyond.

*On virgin tresses

**On bleached hair tresses

Self-Adhesive gel polish? Is this even possible? Does it work? YES!

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One of the things that I always use to make myself feel more put together, or polished, is having my nails “done”.

And by “done”, I don’t necessarily mean heading into a nail bar, I’ve been doing them myself for a while now, but just having some colour on them – it adds a finishing touch to any look.

So, when the gorgeous Catherine from The Skin Wardrobe reached out to tell me about her latest to launch innovative new Scandinavian brand taking Sweden by storm, “Love’n Layer”, I was immediately intrigued…. One application with Catherine? I was HOOKED!

I spent the afternoon in the amazing Skin Wardrobe Studio for the inaugural launch of Love’n Layer.  Catherine applied one hand for me, demonstrating how easy it was (and it really was!), and then gave me the other side to go home and do myself.

We also chatted about the amazing array of colours and designs, something for everyone and every occasion.

The thing I love about adding colour to your nails, is that is really finishes of any look, and it’s a great way to let your own unique style personality shine through.

The first colour I chose was LONDON BLUE – the vibrant blue below – it suits almost everyone, as blue is the most contrasting colour to our skintone. This stunning colour creates a gorgeous POP that works if you love wearing colour too, but also is a great way to add that subtle colour to a more neutral outfit.

Interested to know more? Let’s break it down.

WHAT IS Love’n Layer?

Layers is an innovative, pre-set and pre-cut adhesive gel nail polish. Following nail preparation, it takes 3-5 minutes to apply, without mess and unnecessary drying time. Its thin, yet strong, layer supports and protects your existing nail while adding colour and pattern into your life!

SHOP THE HAND LAYERS EXCLUSIVE TO THE SKIN WARDROBE

These are more than just nail stickers, and SO much easier that at-home gels. The founder of the business, Ida Thern, created this product out of a need for non-toxic, and non-pungent nail polish, that was easy to apply, and more importantly, easy to remove.

And on top of all that, they are REALLY affordable! A set of Hand Layers starts at $38… way cheaper than going to a nail salon, and LORDY so much quicker!

HOW DOES IT WORK?

There are 4 easy steps that can be done in under 10 minutes, YES! 10 MINUTES!

As a busy mum, I sometimes even struggle to find the time to do my own gel nails, and I’m at the mercy of the machine until I’ve painted and set my nails 3-4 times over… with Layers, there is NO mess, and NO drying time! So you’re literally done in minutes… here’s how it works

  1. Prep and clean the nails – preparation is key. Any residues and oils like moisturisers etc can affect how the nails adhere.
  2. Pick your size from the pack – match the gel nails up with your nail shape, peel off and apply to your own nail bed
  3. File the excess – there will be some overhang, so simply use the glass file to file under the nail, and remove the excess gel
  4. you can cure under a UV light if you wish, it hardens the nail and adds more of a shine, but this step isn’t essential if you don’t have a UV lamp

You can watch how I applied my VERY FIRST SET over on my instagram and see how easy it really is – WATCH THE VIDEO

Removal is super-easy too! Just get your fingernail under the edge of the gel coating and gently lift – the layer should come away relatively easily, and with no need for chemicals and no damage to your nails.

CAN YOU DO YOUR TOES TOO?

100% you can! there are layers for hands and feet, and so many cool colours to choose from. The application process really is quick and mess free.

Both my hand sets have lasted over 2 weeks, and my toes are still going 3.5 weeks later! Plus there additional sizes in your pack, so if one happens to pop off or chip, it’s really easy just to replace it without having to buy a whole new set.

WHAT YOU NEED

So to start yourself off on this amazing new nail journey, you’ll need to grab a pack of hand layers, a glass file, and if you want to set the gels, a small UV lamp.

You could also add some toe layers into the mix, and if you want something a little extra-special, there are also glitter layers, animal print layers and heart layers to choose from.

  • So you’re saving time – CHECK.
  • You’re saving money – CHECK.
  • You’re looking after your nail health – CHECK.
  • And by purchasing from The Skin Wardrobe, you’re supporting an amazing NZ small business! – CHECK

It’s a no-brainer really, what are you waiting for? Now the only question is, what colour are you going to start with??

GET ALL YOUR LOVE’N LAYER PRODUCTS EXCLUSIVELY FROM THE SKIN WARDROBE HERE

Skin Benefits of Chamomile

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Ingredient:

Chamomile

Fancy Latin Name:

Anthemis or Roman chamomile or Matricaria recutita L. (German blue chamomile)


Why Do We Love Chamomile?

It’s almost impossible to count the ways in which we love chamomile, actually. Both Roman and German chamomile have myriad uses, most of which are calming in nature. From soothing teas to healing balms to skincare products made with chamomile essential oil, this potent herb offers something for everyone.

Where Does Chamomile Come From?

German chamomile is a medicinal herb native to southern and eastern Europe. It is now grown all over the world, with Hungary as the main producer and the source of our blue chamomile oil.

Roman chamomile is grown all over, and is also referred to as English chamomile. We source ours from the Willamette Valley of Oregon.

What Are The Skin Benefits of Chamomile?

  • German chamomile can help alleviate itching and inflammation thanks to alpha-bisabolol and chamazulenetwo of the most powerful constituents of the oil.
  • Chamazulene, present in both German (more) and Roman (less) chamomile, can help reduce redness in skin conditions such as eczema and dermatitis.
  • Chamomile has bacteria-fighting capabilities.
  • Chamomile applied to the skin has shown some promise in treating eczema, without the rebound effect that comes with steroid treatment.
  • Chamomile should only be used on the skin in properly diluted formulations.
close up photo of dried chamomile flowers, yellow and light brown in color

What Are The Health Benefits of Chamomile?

  • Chamomile has shown significant benefits for people with anxiety and depression, and may be most effective when taken daily as a supplement.
  • Chamomile tea has anti-spasmodic propertieswhich can help relieve menstrual cramps.
  • Several cups a day of chamomile tea can help alleviate symptoms of PMS, including depression and anxiety.
  • Chamomile can help settle gastrointestinal upset, thanks to the anti-spasmodic properties mentioned above, so a few cups of chamomile tea a day is great for folks with GI issues!

Fun Facts About Chamomile:

  • It’s possible to have an allergy to chamomile, especially if you are allergic to related plants such as ragweed, chrysanthemums, marigolds, or daisies.
  • Chamomile is used to make perfumes, skincare, healing balms, tea, beer, and even an herbal liqueur.
  • German chamomile grows up to 2-3 feet tall. It has thin, feathery leaves and white flowers with yellow centers with an apple-like scent.
  • Roman chamomile grows only 4-5 inches, and likes to spread out horizontally, which is why you often see it as a ground cover in gardens. The flowers have a similar appearance to the German variety.
  • One million cups of chamomile tea are consumed throughout the world every day!

Osmia Products with Chamomile:

With love and calm chamomile energy,

The information contained in this post is for educational interest only and is not intended to represent claims for actions of chamomile. This information is not intended to be used for diagnosis or treatment of any physical or mental illness or disease.

Reference articles:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3210003/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2995283/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10799352/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5646235/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6970572/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5074766/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5589135/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5796020/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8242407/