1 winner will receive 2 sets of the DAX Gel Collection fromDAXHairCare.comThe odds of winning depend on the number of entries. Winners will be selected at random using a random selection tool. All decisions are final. All entries received after the giveaway closing date and time will not be considered. Entries that do not follow all of the entry requirements will not be considered. Posh Beauty Blog or PoshBeautyBlog.com are not liable for late or misdirected entries, entry errors, or transmission problems. We reserve the right to terminate the giveaway in the event of technical problems, or to correct typographical or technical errors, or to amend these rules. By entering, participants agree to release and hold harmless the website owners and their respective parents, subsidiaries, affiliates, directors, officers, employees, and agents from any and all liability or any injuries, loss, or damage of any kind arising from or in connection with a giveaway. Non-winning entries from one giveaway are not carried forward to future giveaways. Prizes are not redeemable for cash. Winners will be notified on November 29, 2024 by 12:00pm PST and will have 48 hours to reply and accept the prize(s). Should they not reply, a new winner will be notified. The giveaway is open to US residents only and the winner must live in one of the 50 United States.
*This blog post and giveaway is sponsored by DAX Hair Care
In a world where cosmetic enhancements and transformations were once seen as the ultimate beauty goal, a shift is happening. More people are moving away from surgical procedures and embracing a more authentic, natural look. Instead of altering appearances through drastic measures, individuals are focusing on enhancing what they naturally have. This new era of beauty is about celebrating uniqueness and cultivating beauty that radiates from within. From minimalist skincare routines to holistic health practices, let’s explore the trends that are defining natural beauty and reshaping the beauty industry.
Skinimalism: Embracing “Less is More”
One of the most prominent trends in natural beauty is “skinimalism,” a blend of “skin” and “minimalism.” This approach is about paring down skincare routines to only essential, high-quality products and embracing the natural texture of one’s skin. Instead of striving for perfect, blemish-free skin, skinimalism encourages people to work with what they have—pores, freckles, and all. Skinimalism encourages using fewer products but more effective ones. It focuses on nurturing the skin to look healthy and glowing rather than artificially flawless.
Key to skinimalism is choosing products that serve multiple functionssuch as hydrating serums, gentle exfoliants, and sunscreens that protect and nourish without clogging pores. This minimalist approach not only saves time and money but also reduces the potential for skin irritation that can come from using too many products. With a simple, mindful skincare routine, the skin’s natural glow is highlighted, emphasizing authentic beauty over perfection.
The Influence of K-Beauty: Skincare as Self-Care
Korean beauty, or K-beauty, has been instrumental in promoting a natural, health-focused approach to skincare worldwide. Known for its “glass skin” effect, K-beauty emphasizes a dewy, glowing complexion that radiates health rather than a high-coverage makeup look. Brands like Beauty of Joseon have gained popularity by merging traditional Korean skincare ingredients with modern, gentle formulations that aim to improve skin health rather than conceal flaws.
One of the fundamental principles in K-beauty is that skincare is self-care. This involves not only using quality products but also dedicating time to take care of one’s skin. The multi-step routines often include double cleansing, applying hydrating toners and serums, and using masks with natural ingredients, which can be adjusted to individual needs. As a result, people are encouraged to treat their skincare routine as a ritual, a moment of self-love that enhances well-being.
DIY Beauty Rituals at Home: Back to Basics
The natural beauty movement has also inspired a return to homemade beauty treatments using ingredients from the kitchen. DIY beauty rituals have become a popular way to enjoy the benefits of natural ingredients without the cost or complexity of commercial products. Face masks made from avocado, honey, oatmeal, or yogurt are among the favorite at-home recipes that provide nourishment and hydration for the skin. These ingredients are packed with vitamins and antioxidants that improve skin texture and radiance, making them a great addition to a natural skincare routine.
DIY treatments have an added benefit of transparency—when you make your own products, you know exactly what’s going onto your skin. They are free from preservatives and synthetic fragrances, which can sometimes irritate sensitive skin. Plus, creating these treatments can be a fun, relaxing activity that allows for a sense of connection to nature. By experimenting with different ingredients, individuals can personalize their routines based on what works best for their skin type.
Beauty from Within: The Role of Nutrition and Wellness
The saying “you are what you eat” is a core principle in the natural beauty movement. A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole foods is believed to have a significant impact on skin health. Antioxidant-rich foods like berries, leafy greens, and nuts protect skin cells from damage caused by free radicals, while healthy fats from sources like avocados and olive oil can help maintain skin elasticity and moisture.
Staying hydrated is another essential factor for glowing skin. Drinking plenty of water aids in flushing out toxins and keeps the skin plump and radiant. Combined with regular exercise, proper sleep, and stress-management practices, these wellness habits contribute to a healthier appearance from the inside out. This holistic approach underlines that beauty is not just about products but also about lifestyle choices that promote overall well-being.
Embracing Body Positivity and Self-Acceptance
Alongside the rise of natural beauty trends is a growing movement toward body positivity and self-acceptance. People are becoming more open to showing themselves without filters or heavy makeup, celebrating their natural appearance on social media. Influencers and celebrities are increasingly sharing unfiltered, makeup-free photos, which helps to dismantle unrealistic beauty standards. By normalizing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, scars, and stretch marks, the beauty industry is slowly embracing more inclusive and diverse representations of beauty.
Body positivity encourages individuals to appreciate and accept their bodies just as they are. Instead of hiding perceived flaws, people are finding empowerment in their unique features. This shift is helping many to redefine beauty as something deeply personal and unique rather than something to conform to or change.
Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Beauty Choices
As the focus shifts towards a more natural approach to beauty, there’s also an increased awareness of the environmental impact of beauty products. Many consumers are now seeking eco-friendly options, from refillable containers to products made with sustainable, ethically sourced ingredients. By choosing brands that prioritize the environment, people are aligning their beauty routines with values of responsibility and sustainability.
Additionally, some are opting for brands that use biodegradable packaging or zero-waste initiatives, as well as products that avoid harmful chemicals and synthetic ingredients. This eco-conscious approach resonates with the values of natural beauty—simplifying, reducing, and choosing products that are good for the skin and the planet.
Real Beauty, No Filter Needed: A New Standard
The natural beauty trend is more than a fleeting phase; it is a response to the growing desire for authenticity and self-acceptance. As people adopt skinimalism, K-beauty-inspired routines, DIY treatments, and healthier lifestyle habits, they are redefining beauty standards in a way that embraces diversity and authenticity. This movement emphasizes that beauty is not about perfection or conformity but about self-expression, confidence, and a holistic approach to wellness.
The move away from invasive cosmetic procedures and heavy makeup is empowering individuals to feel beautiful in their own skin. For many, this journey involves learning to see the beauty in their natural features, imperfections, and all. The rise of natural beauty trends is a powerful reminder that we don’t need to rely on surgery or heavy makeup to feel beautiful. Instead, by embracing who we are, taking care of our bodies, and prioritizing wellness, we find a deeper, more lasting sense of beauty—one that is unique, authentic, and truly our own.
In conclusion, natural beauty is about more than just appearance; it’s a lifestyle that prioritizes self-care, health, and acceptance. Whether it’s through minimalist skincare routines, nourishing diets, or body-positive attitudes, embracing natural beauty is a path towards a more fulfilling and balanced life.
Let’s cut straight to the chase: Victoria Beckham Black Friday is proving to be the dark horse of the Black Friday 2025 sales. “A candidate who is little known”,” (granted – that part isn’t true – the Victoria Beckham Beauty brand has been so popular that has overtaken the fashion line from a profit standpoint), “but who unexpectedly wins or succeeds.” True, within the context of the best Black Friday deals. Victoria Beckham rarely offers any sale, so to discount the entire site by 20% is both surprising and very, well, thrilling.
Glamour’s best Victoria Beckham Black Friday buys:
Victoria Beckham Beauty has had a strong year. The former spice girl-turned-fashion mogul expanded her premium beauty brand into makeup brushes for the first time to a great reception. Inspired by calligraphy and painting, each Victoria Beckham makeup brush (there are nine in total) was carefully designed for expert precision. The Conceal & Detail Brush was our favourite during testing, crafted to reach those hard-to-access areas (like under the eyes and around the nose). We also loved the Detailed Lip Brush to perfectly define edges for a stamped-on lip look, as well as the large Powder Brush that makes blending a breeze.
Victoria Beckham also joined forces with luxury skincare brand Augustinus Bader – the brains behind the The Rich Cream which is beloved by celebrities and backed by 30 years’ of research – to launch a Concealer Pen and Cell Rejuvenating Illuminator. (Yes, both are discounted in the Black Friday sale). A game-changer for any complexion routine, the latter is infused with AB’s proprietary TFC8 complex that was created to boost cell regeneration.
Outside of new launches, it’s worth noting the brand’s bestsellers, too. Think: the cult Satin Kajal Liner or the beautifully-pigmented Colour Wash blush (which the Glamour team reviewed earlier in the summer). If Victoria Beckham Beauty does anything well, it’s staying at the forefront of innovation and creating premium, wonderfully-packaged, long-lasting product.
SKIP TO:
What is the Victoria Beckham Black Friday sale?
It’s simple: the entire Victoria Beckham Beauty site is 20% off, live now until December 1 (read: midnight on Cyber Monday). You don’t need a code: simply add your favourite VB buys to your cart, and the discount will be automatically applied at checkout. To help you navigate the sale, Glamour editors have been busy testing Victoria Beckham products all year to curate a Black Friday edit of the crème de la crème only.
Ahead, the best products to buy in Victoria Beckham Black Friday.
The Foundation Drops with TFC8®
Portofino ’97 Eau de Parfum
Lip Definer: Waterproof Lip Liner
The Concealer Pen with TFC8®
What is Black Friday?
Black Friday is the biggest shopping event of the year: a day which sees retailers across beauty, fashion, homeware and tech discount most lines by up to 70%. The event takes place globally, having been founded in the States – and it always falls on the last Friday of November. That is, the day following Thanksgiving.
When is Black Friday?
Black Friday 2025 was yesterday: Friday 28 November. But don’t panic – if you didn’t manage to place any orders, sales are still live until midnight on Cyber Monday.
What is Cyber Monday & is Victoria Beckham Beauty taking part?
On that note, Cyber Monday 2025 falls on Monday 1 December. Victoria Beckham is taking part – the sitewide 20% off sale ends at midnight. It’s a great time to get ahead of your Christmas shopping for beauty sleuths – with cult buys and bestselling gift sets discounted.
More of the best Black Friday deals:
After something else? Glamour’s Black Friday coverage is extensive – with guides to the best of the CurrentBody Black Friday sale and Trinny London Black Friday proving the most popular. Elsewhere, shop Net-A-Porter Black Friday, Skims Black Friday and Korean Beauty Black Friday deals.
For many of us, browsing through our favorite online stores isn’t just about shopping—it’s a mindless, relaxing act of self-care. (We call it retail therapy for a reason.)
When you shop, your brain’s reward center is activated, which triggers the release of the feel-good neurotransmitter dopamine, Kate Cummins, PsyD, a licensed clinical psychologist and speaker in the Bay Area, tells SELF. That explains how jumping from page to page can be strangely exciting. So why, then, does it sometimes leave you with an icky mix of guilt, regret, and hollow emptiness instead? We asked psychologists to break down the most common reasons your online shopping habit is leaving you drained (and not just financially)—plus, how to browse in a way that’s actually enjoyable.
1. The paradox of choice is overwhelming.
On the web, there are near infinite brands, retailers, and products to comb through. Not only are you drowning in pages of items, but you’re also inundated with tons of information—sales and promotions, customer reviews, details on materials, size charts, etc. All this, yet you still can’t see, feel, or try anything on.
“Research shows that we have a paradox of choice,” Diedre Popovich, PhD, an associate professor of marketing in the Rawls College of Business at Texas Tech University, tells SELF. “Consumers love to have a lot of different options available to us, but when we have too many, we actually end up in decision paralysis”—or the inability to pick due to overwhelming choices.
On top of that, many brands aren’t just selling products—they’re selling you a whole new lifestyle. It’s about “the idea that if you have this product, your life will be infinitely better,” Dr. Popovich says. Will a $15 organizer from Amazon finally make you a neat freak? Can those trendy jeans help you love your body, once and for all? It’s not that simple—and more often than not, you’ll end up with more stress, anxiety, and indecisiveness than you had when you started.
2. It can be a total time-suck.
In theory, buying stuff online should be more efficient: There’s no need to leave the house, try things on, or go from store to store searching for what you want. But even digital window shopping can quickly turn into a bigger time investment than you imagined.
This could be attributed to “flow,” the psychological state often described as being “in the zone,” according to Dr. Popovich. Time seems to fly by when you’re immersed in a task at hand, whether you’re playing video games or browsing mindlessly online. When you’re in flow, before you know it, a good chunk of your day is gone—which is great when you’re doing something that’s been long on your to-do list or finishing up a work project, but can be all the more frustrating if, after all that scrolling, you have no purchases to show for the hours spent.
3. There’s mounting pressure to be a “responsible” consumer.
The cultural context around shopping is changing, which can make the experience even more stressful. Sustainability, in particular, is becoming increasingly important to customers as we learn more about the massive waste associated with high-buy lifestyles; it’s spurred social media trends like “underconsumption core” and the rise of ThriftTok.
THE WHAT? Indonesia has notified the WTO of a draft decree that would establish an HS code-based list identifying all products subject to mandatory halal certification, with public comments open until 30 November 2025.
THE DETAILS In its 6 November 2025 notification (G/TBT/N/IDN/160/Add.2), Indonesia outlined a proposed system to classify food, beverages, food additives, cosmetics, and natural medicine products using Harmonized System (HS) codes to determine which items must secure halal certification before being imported, traded, or sold in the country.
The HS code list is intended to guide importers and authorised representatives in registering foreign halal certificates, determining whether a product falls under mandatory halal rules, and applying for certification with BPJPH or recognised foreign bodies.
The proposal follows BPJPH’s 9 September 2025 announcement introducing new requirements for halal mark labelling and public disclosure of certification information.
THE WHY? The HS-coded system is designed to streamline enforcement of Indonesia’s halal regulations and provide clearer compliance parameters for companies operating in categories subject to mandatory certification.
By: London Summers | Photo Credits: Cotavation LLC
Tiffany Evans is the talented R&B star who captivated a global audience with powerhouse vocals on Star Search at just nine years old to her unforgettable screen debut in Tyler Perry’s Diary of a Mad Black Woman and charting hits like “Promise Ring” and “I’m Grown,”. Tiffany Evans has grown before our eyes. Now, as an independent R&B songstress, she’s rewriting her story one rooted in resilience, motherhood, faith, and creative freedom.
Exclusively Interviewed by London Summers
Photo Credits: Cotavation LLC
HH: Tiffany, it’s a pleasure to connect with you, You’ve been captivating audiences since Star Search and made your acting debut in Diary of a Mad Black Woman. Looking back, what moment made you truly realize, “I’m meant to be here and destined to be a star”?
TiffanyEvans: Thank you for having me! It wasn’t just one moment. It was a series of moments where God wouldn’t let me walk away. I started so young that I didn’t fully understand what was happening, but I do remember standing on the Star Search stage, feeling the lights on my face, hearing the audience cheer, and feeling this calm come over me that told me I belonged there. As an adult, after everything I’ve lived through and still waking up
wanting to create, I finally understood I wasn’t here by accident. This is who I am.
HH: What inspired you to pursue both music and acting at such a young age and how did you know entertainment was your calling?
THE: Performing was never something I had to talk myself into. It was something I couldn’t stop doing. I was always singing, expressing myself, or imagining scenes. Even before I had the language for it, I felt connected to something bigger every time I stepped on a stage or in front of a camera. That connection told me this was home.
Photo Credit: Cotavation LLC
HH: You’ve lived multiple lifetimes in the industry. What have been the most defining challenges?
THE: Growing up in the industry can be complicated. You’re expected to act beyond your age but still be moldable. Finding my own voice emotionally, spiritually, and creatively was one of my biggest challenges. Being misunderstood or underestimated pushed me to grow in ways that shaped the artist I am today. My music now is honest, mature, and rooted in real emotion.
HH: Tell us about your most memorable experience filming Diary of a Mad Black Woman and how Tyler Perry’s influence shows up in your life today.
THE: Tyler Perry made me feel like I belonged on that set. He encouraged me to trust myself and not be afraid to take up space. That advice stayed with me throughout my life. Even now, I remind myself to take up space in every room I walk into, both personally and professionally.
HH: Motherhood can transform how a woman sees herself. What lessons has motherhood taught you?
THE: Motherhood grounded me, taught me patience, honesty, and resilience. Kids see everything, so they push you toward growth. Becoming a mother deepened my music because I’ve experienced love, fear, purpose, and responsibility in new ways. I create with more intention now, not just for myself but for the legacy I want my children to inherit.
HH: The industry can be beautiful and brutal. Who supported you during the highs and lows, and how do you protect your peace?
THE: My biggest supporters have always been my family and the people who know me beyond the artist. They’ve kept me grounded through everything. I protect my peace by setting boundaries, staying connected to who I am, and not letting outside noise distract me from my truth or my growth.
HH: Let’s set the record straight. Who is Tiffany Evans now?
THE: I’m a woman who is fully in control of her sound, vision, and life. I’m not chasing approval or fitting into old expectations. This chapter is mature, intentional, and rooted in everything I’ve lived through. I’m not the little girl from Star Search or the
teenager with a hit single. I’m a woman who has evolved, healed, and stepped confidently into her power.
HH:You’ve been performing live again. What does it feel like to be back on stage?
THE: It feels powerful and familiar, like coming home. Being on stage reminds me why I started. But now I’m performing from a place of full ownership. My voice, my style, my message I’m guiding it all. The audience feels that energy, and I feel it right back.
HH: What new projects or releases can fans look forward to?
Tiffany: My fan can expect more music that reflects who I am today. My newest single ‘Hope You Understand Me’ marks the start of this new chapter, and there’s much more coming. I’m creating music that is emotional, honest, and rooted in real R&B; storytelling. Every release will show another part of my evolution.
After years of evolving behind the scenes, Tiffany is back, stronger than ever and performing live shows across the country and reminding fans why her voice remains one of R&B’s most unforgettable.
Rosehip oil has been a skincare staple for centuries, known for its numerous benefits to the skin. Extracted from the seeds of rose bushes, this natural oil is rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and essential fatty acids that can help improve skin tone, texture, and overall appearance.
In this article, we will delve into what rosehip oil is and explore the myriad benefits it offers for skin health and beauty. Whether you are looking to hydrate, brighten, or rejuvenate your skin, rosehip oil may be your new go-to skincare essential.
Key Benefits of Rosehip Oil for Skin
Rosehip oil’s high concentration of vitamins A and C makes it a powerhouse for skin rejuvenation. Vitamin A promotes skin regeneration and collagen production, reducing the appearance of scars and fine lines. Vitamin C brightens the skin tone and protects against environmental damage, leaving your skin with a radiant glow. Additionally, the essential fatty acids in rosehip oil help to deeply hydrate the skin without clogging pores, making it suitable for all skin types, even oily and acne-prone skin. These combined benefits make rosehip oil a versatile and effective addition to your skincare routine.
How to Incorporate Rosehip Oil into Your Skincare Routine
To make the most of the benefits of rosehip oil, incorporate it into your skincare routine in the following simple ways:
1. After cleansing and toning, apply a few drops of rosehip oil to your face and neck, gently massaging it into your skin.
2. Mix a drop or two of rosehip oil with your moisturizer for added hydration and nourishment.
3. Use rosehip oil as a spot treatment on scars or pigmentation, allowing it to work its magic overnight.
Remember, consistency is key when it comes to skincare, so make sure to use rosehip oil regularly to see the best results.
Tips for Choosing the Best Rosehip Oil Products
When selecting a rosehip oil product, opt for cold-pressed and organic options to ensure maximum potency and purity. Look for products that are in dark, opaque bottles to protect the oil from light exposure, preserving its beneficial properties.
Consider products that are free from artificial additives or fragrances to prevent skin irritation. Lastly, check for certifications from reputable organizations to guarantee the quality and authenticity of the rosehip oil. By being mindful of these factors, you can ensure that you are choosing the best rosehip oil products for your skincare needs.
Potential Side Effects and Precautions
While rosehip oil is generally safe for most skin types, some individuals may experience allergic reactions such as redness, itching, or irritation. Patch test the oil on a small area of skin before using it extensively to check for any adverse reactions. Pregnant or nursing women should consult with a healthcare provider before adding rosehip oil to their skincare routine.
Additionally, individuals with sensitive skin or certain skin conditions like eczema should consult a dermatologist before using rosehip oil.
Conclusion: The Power of Rosehip Oil for Healthy, Glowing Skin
Despite the potential side effects and precautions to consider, rosehip oil remains a powerhouse for achieving healthy and glowing skin. Its rich antioxidants, essential fatty acids, and vitamins work wonders in promoting skin rejuvenation, hydration, and brightening. When used correctly and in moderation, rosehip oil can contribute to improving skin texture, reducing fine lines and wrinkles, and overall skin health. Remember to perform a patch test, especially if you have sensitive skin or are prone to allergies. By incorporating rosehip oil into your skincare routine mindfully, you can harness its benefits and achieve that coveted radiant complexion you’ve been dreaming of.
Yes — because you can’t always guarantee that you’ll be working with the perfect natural lighting conditions when applying your makeup. “Good lighting allows you to see your face clearly, and also ensures true colour representation of your products,” explains Saffron Hughes, make-up artist at FalseEyelashes.co.uk. “This is essential for flawless makeup — and particularly helps make sure that your base looks natural and even.”
What magnification mirror is best for doing makeup?
Your mirror doesn’t have to come with any kind of magnification — but most of the more impressive models do. “The ideal magnification for a lighted makeup mirror depends on your needs — however, 5x to 8x is the sweet spot for most makeup tasks,” Hughes explains.
“Providing a clear, close-up view of your whole face, using a 5x mirror makes it easier to apply foundation and contour your face,” she adds. “However, an 8x mirror might be better-suited to anyone who wears glasses — and also works well for more intricate tasks, like tweezing your eyebrows.”
Your best bet? Saffron recommends looking out for a mirror with a dual or tri-sided design, for maximum flexibility.
What to look for when shopping for the best makeup mirror:
There’s no shortage of options if you’re looking to find the best makeup mirror. There are mirrors with built-in phone chargers and even ones that’ll tell you the weather (yes, really). To make the right choice for your skincare routine, consider these features:
Light quality
It’s well-worth remembering that not all LED lights are made equally. “LED lights with a higher CRI rating will ensure that the lighting is as close to natural daylight as possible — allowing you to see the colours clearly and accurately,” Dr. Tara Lalvani explains. “This makes it easier to judge how your makeup will look in real life, rather than under poor artificial light.”
Different light settings
Clearly, the most in-demand mirrors are usually the ones that let you customise your lighting. As well as being dimmable, many can cast multiple temperatures — including daylight, warm light, and cool light.
Plus — thanks to a new generation of LED makeup mirrors with built-in phone holders and chargers — it’s also never been easier to film yourself in action or to follow along with a makeup TikTok tutorial.
Size and portability
Where will you primarily be using your mirror? For a permanent makeup spot, go for a larger Hollywood-style mirror — or pick a wall-mounted option if you’re keen to save precious dressing table space. Alternatively, if you’d like something that you can move around the house a little more easily, pick a chic pedestal mirror — or a slimline option with a foldable stand.
Meanwhile, if you’re looking for something smaller to slip in your handbag for on-the-go touch-ups, there are plenty of more compact options to consider — most of which you can use cordless as long as they’ve been charged in advance.
Is a lighted makeup mirror worth it?
In short — yes. “With an illuminated makeup mirror, you’re less likely to over or under apply makeup, and you’ll find it easier to blend seamlessly whilst avoiding harsh lines,” Hughes adds. “Essentially, you’re more likely to achieve a polished, professional finish with good lighting.”
Thrift shopping deserves every ounce of its current internet buzz: It’s better for the environment—and for your checking account. But when you’re shopping for secondhand workout clothes, the germ expert SELF consulted says it pays to be a little more discerning with those pre-loved yoga and running fits. Ahead, our experts break down a six-step process for evaluating vintage items before you haul them home.
Check the tags
So you’ve located the perfect second-chance windbreaker or yoga pants? Peek the tag, tailor Sarene Alsharif, CEO of Tad More Tailoring tells SELF. The type of fabric you’re dealing with can determine the longevity of the piece. Natural materials, such as cotton, merino wool, or bamboo—all of which last a long time and tend to maintain their shapes. Avoid synthetic materials like spandex or nylon, which may stretch and sag over time.
Microbiologist and immunologist Jason Tetro, tells SELF, that organic fabrics are also less likely to be germy. “Bacteria and other microbes tend to attach to more synthetic fabrics over natural ones,” he explains. “Cotton and nylon are pretty good at resisting bacterial attachment. However, acrylic and polyester tend to be havens for bacteria. Wool is in between, although it tends to have antimicrobial properties. Same with some types of bamboo,” says Tetro, author of The Germ Files.
Consider the current condition
Now, it’s time to take a close look at what’s holding the garment together. “Especially with leggings, you want to look at the stitching of the seat, crotch, and the top of the thighs—that’s where there’s the most strain on it,” says Alsharif. “So if you see stitches popping or empty spaces where there should be a stitch, that means that the stitching is coming undone there.”
Check the larger swath of plastic on the waistband or the base of the sports bra, too, she adds. “When you pull on [the elastic]is it stretching out? Is it stretching out a lot or just a little bit? Sometimes, from all of the washing, the elastic can become stiff, and it’s not going to stretch out,” explains Alsharif. Conversely, the elastic band may be too loose and saggy, so give it a good tug and check for that Goldilocks feel.
Finally, check for opacity. While you may not be able to perform the squat test in-store, Alsharif recommends pressing a palm in the fabric to check for see-throughness. This will help you avoid accidentally flashing anyone in yoga class or at the gym.
Perform a sniff test
If it smells funky on the rack, it’s not worth adding to your closet, clinical pathologist S. Wesley Long, MD tells SELF. Beyond being unpleasant, smells can indicate the presence of lingering bacteria and sweat residue, he explains.
Avoid intimate items
“I would not recommend buying used socks or undergarments for hygiene reasons,” says Dr. Long. “Socks and undergarments, for example, have direct contact with sensitive areas and may be harder to clean thoroughly, so purchasing them secondhand is not recommended.” The same goes for hats, which could contain lice.
Is Online Thrift Shopping Okay?
It just isn’t possible to perform all these checks on Poshmark, ThredUp, and Depop—so what’s an online thrifter to do? “I’ll be honest. I have a hard time buying anything used online,” says Tetro. “If it’s outerwear or something that can be used as an outer layer, I’m sure it will be fine. But if it’s going to touch your skin, I think it’s better to have the chance to do the tests.”
So, you’ve squeezed, swiped, and used up every last bit of your Woohoo deodorant stick or lip balm.
Your pits are fresh, your lips are soft and now you’re left with an empty cardboard tube.
Most people would just chuck it in the bin and move on with their lives.
But you? You’re better than that.
Because this little tube isn’t landfill-bound. Nope. It’s compostable.
Which means instead of sitting in a rubbish pile for the next 500 years, it can break down naturally and actually do some good for the planet.
Let’s talk about how to turn your empty Woohoo tube into garden gold.
First, why compost?
Composting is basically nature’s way of taking out the trash, without the trash part. You compost food scraps, garden waste, and other biodegradable goodies (like your Woohoo tubes), let nature work its magic and bam… nutrient-rich soil.
It reduces waste, cuts methane emissions and helps build healthier soil.
The catch? Not everything breaks down the way you’d hope. Some cardboard is lined with plastic. Some have weird inks. Some just refuse to die.
But not ours.
Woohoo tubes are home-compostable, plastic-free, and printed with biodegradable plant-based inks. They’re basically born ready to return to the earth.
So, what do you do with yours now that it’s empty?
How to Compost Your Woohoo Tube Like a Pro
Step 1: Scrape It Clean
First things first, make sure there’s no leftover product inside. Scrape out any remnants of deodorant or lip balm. Your pits and lips have had their moment. Now it’s time for the soil to get its share.
Step 2: Soak It in Water
Cardboard is tough, but water makes it weak. Give your empty tube a little soak (just for a few minutes) to soften it up. Think of it as a fun little farewell bath.
Step 3: Tear or Chop It Up
Your compost bin isn’t a fan of big, bulky items. It likes things in small, snackable pieces. So go wild! Rip it up with your hands, or if you’re feeling fancy, grab some scissors and make confetti. The smaller the pieces, the faster they break down.
Step 4: Toss It in Your Compost Bin (or the Great Outdoors)
Now for the fun part – sending it off into the composting afterlife. Got a home compost bin? Perfect. If not, here are some alternatives:
Bury it in your garden – Mother Nature loves a surprise snack.
Drop it in your council compost collection – Check if your local area has one (many do!).
Pass it to a composting mate – everyone’s got that one eco-friend.
Take it to your community gardens – Many have composting programs and love new contributions.
Step 5: Watch It Disappear Like Magic
Unlike plastic packaging (which sticks around for yonks), your Woohoo tube will break down within a few months to a couple of years, depending on compost conditions. And just like that, it’ll turn into nutrient-rich soil that helps plants grow.
So yeah, chucking your empty Woohoo tube into the compost might seem like a small thing but small things add up. It really is one of the easiest, planet-friendly moves you can make.
So go on. Give your Woohoo tubes the compostable send-off they deserve.
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