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The Curl Pattern Chart Is Long Overdue for an Upgrade

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The Curl Pattern Chart Is Long Overdue for an Upgrade

Virginia-based cosmetologist, educator, and author Tishawna Pritchett says she’s never relied on hair typing for that reason. It wasn’t taught in cosmetology school when she studied over 30 years ago, and even after learning about the plethora of hair textures represented by the chart, she never adopted it. “It makes no sense to my clients when their focus is simply healthy hair,” she says.

Many of Pritchett’s clients come in convinced they have 4C hair because of something they saw on the chart, but when she examines their strands, what they’re identifying is often just damaged hair, or curls that haven’t been properly cared for, not their true texture.

When it comes to figuring out how to care for your hair day-to-day, Dr. Asempa says, a better starting point is hair condition, including the damage level, and its porosity—or, in other words, how absorptive it is. Porosity is determined by two things: the natural lipids and cuticle structure you’re born with, and the external choices you make.

Dyes, relaxers, perms, and heat styling all contribute to the breaking of chemical bonds in the hair, which permanently change the structure. Because of that, Dr. Asempa explains, product marketing based on curl patterns alone can be misleading. Someone who is Caucasian with straight, bleached hair, for example, may actually benefit from the same products as someone who is Black with high-porosity coils. What matters most is the hair’s structure and health.

The texture of hair is also tied to general health. When the body goes through shifts, whether from stress, hormonal changes, medication, or simply aging, hair follicles can weaken or shrink. That can cause curl patterns to loosen or lose density. The hair-typing system wasn’t designed to address these kinds of changes either.

Today’s hair-typing chart reinforces age-old biases

Many people in the natural hair community have long pointed out that the modern curl-pattern chart indirectly favors looser, more Eurocentric textures, which can reinforce harmful and prejudiced ideas about beauty. By putting straight hair first, literally as type 1, and coily textures last at type 4, it subtly reinforces the idea that the tighter the texture, the further it is from what has been historically labeled as “ideal” or the “default.” That hierarchy didn’t begin with Walker—again, the very concept of creating hair classifications began with eugenics—but I believe his chart has unintentionally carried some of that thinking forward.

Why Nourishing Your Hair Is Self-Care – Iles Formula

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Why Nourishing Your Hair Is Self-Care – Iles Formula

Caring for your hair isn’t just about looking good. it’s a profound act of self-love and wellness. When you prioritize your hair’s health with high-performance products, you’re investing in yourself. With Iles Formula, hair care becomes a luxurious and meaningful part of your self-care routine. Here are five reasons why nourishing your hair is essential to your wellness journey.

Boost Confidence with Healthier Hair

Your hair plays a significant role in how you feel about yourself. The Iles Formula Haute Performance Conditioner is a powerhouse  part of a 3 step sytem, instantly transforming your hair into its healthiest state. Raw virgin ingredients infused with bio tech blends, this conditioner stands apart within the haircare market. Results are just not unforgettable, but spectacular and instant from the first use.

Flat lay of Iles Formula products including Scalp + Body Exfoliant, Intensive Hair + Body Balm, Hair + Body Cleanse, and a sponge, arranged on a white surface.

Transform your self-care routine with the Iles Formula Spa Collection—a curated selection of high-performance formulas designed for the ultimate at-home spa experience. This indulgent collection extends the luxury of Iles Formula beyond haircare.

The Scalp + Body Exfoliant gently removes impurities with sustainably sourced rice husks and kiwi fruit extracts, restoring a healthy scalp and revitalised skin. Follow with the Hair + Body Cleansean antioxidant-rich formula infused with vitamins B3, B5, B6, C, and E to nourish and strengthen both hair and skin. Complete your ritual with the deeply hydrating Intensive Hair + Body Balma rich, multi-use treatment enriched with Organic Shea Butter and Tucuma Seed Butter to improve elasticity, lock in moisture, and offer natural UV protection.

Infused with a bespoke, unisex fragrance of fresh bergamot, delicate florals, and a hint of Earl Grey tea, the Spa Collection is a sensory escape that transports you to the Mediterranean. Each formula is sustainably crafted with clean, high-performance ingredients, free from sulfates, silicones, parabens, and unnecessary additives. Ensuring a luxurious yet conscious self-care experience.

Protect and Perfect with the Iles Formula Travel Essentials

Flat lay of Iles Formula haircare set with shampoo, conditioner, finishing serum, a white comb, and a hair wrap, all arranged on a white background.

Great hair shouldn’t be limited to your home routine. The Travel Edit ensures your hair stays nourished and protected wherever you go. This compact kit includes the must-have Shampoo, Conditioner, and Finishing Serumeach in a convenient travel size, so you never have to compromise on hair health. Whether you’re heading to a business trip, a holiday, or the gym, maintaining silky, frizz-free locks has never been easier.

Strengthen and Revitalise with the Iles Formula Scalp + Hair Rejuvenation Booster

White bottle of Iles Formula Scalp + Hair Rejuvenating Booster with pump dispenser, placed on a textured surface with a hand shadow cast on the wall behind.

Healthy hair starts at the scalp. The Iles Formula Scalp + Hair Rejuvenation Booster is designed to promote hair strength from the root, stimulating growth and improving overall hair density. Infused with clean, high-performance ingredients, it’s the perfect solution for anyone looking to nourish their scalp while preventing breakage and thinning. Incorporating this booster into your routine ensures long-term hair health and vitality.

Effortless Styling with the Iles Formula Curl Revive Pack

Two white bottles of Iles Formula Haute Performance Curl Revive Spray and Curl Revive, displayed on a textured surface with palm leaf shadows in the background.

For those with curls, waves, or textured hair, achieving definition without frizz can be a challenge. The Iles Formula Curl Revive is specially formulated to hydrate, define, and protect your natural curls while maintaining a lightweight feel. Whether you’re enhancing your curls or reviving them between washes, this pack keeps your hair looking effortlessly styled and full of bounce.

Long-Term Hair Health with the Iles Formula Signature Collection

Two white bottles of Iles Formula Haute Performance Curl Revive Spray and Curl Revive, displayed on a textured surface with palm leaf shadows in the background.

Investing in high-quality hair care products isn’t just about immediate results. It’s about long-term health. The Iles Formula Signature Collection is a complete system designed to strengthen, add shine, and protect against damage. With immediate use, your hair becomes noticeably stronger, more resilient, and full of life. Beyond the visible transformation, caring for your hair fosters a deeper sense of confidence and self-appreciation, because healthy hair is more than just an aesthetic, it’s a reflection of self-love.

Loving your hair is an act of loving yourself. By choosing Iles Formula, you’re not only giving your hair the care it deserves but also nurturing your confidence and well-being. Turn your hair care routine into a moment of indulgence and let it be a daily reminder of your self-worth

Random Recs: The New Yorker at 100; Martin Margiela’s T-shirt maquette; Stuart McKenzie’s poems and more

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Random Recs: The New Yorker at 100; Martin Margiela’s T-shirt maquette; Stuart McKenzie’s poems and more

Your Magnesium Questions Answered | Nourished Life AU

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Your Magnesium Questions Answered | Nourished Life AU

If there’s one thing we can’t get enough of… it’s magnesium! Whenever we talk about the benefits and uses of magnesium, we always receive so many comments wanting to know more! To answer all of your most popular questions, we sat down with Grace from Amazing Oils to find out more about the amazing benefits of magnesium.

This interview was so insightful as she covered how getting more magnesium into your system can help alleviate issues such as migraines, tension headaches, and menstrual tension!

What are some typical symptoms of magnesium deficiency?

To assess your own magnesium levels, look more for the tell-tale signs of someone being deficient in magnesium. The most well-known symptoms are cramping and spasms. Even a headache is a form of a cramp while Restless legs are a form of mild limb spasm. If you think you may have a magnesium deficiency, be sure to talk to your healthcare practitioner.

Can magnesium alleviate menstrual cramp pain?

Most definitely! If women apply magnesium oil over the ovaries and the whole pelvic core just before that time of the month, it may help prevent the monthly cramping. If you forget for any reason, apply it when you feel that cramping coming on.

Apart from being an Aussie brand, what makes your products different from all the other magnesium products on the market?

In terms of how we are different, we really like to talk about what we care about and that is people. This company came about after a family member became very ill. They went through the medical system which couldn’t help them. So, we began to look at other ways that we could put minerals back into their system. Out of everything we tried, this made a huge difference, so we threw our lives into it! Our products also go through an organic filtration system. There’s no residue so it doesn’t have to be washed off and the absorption is very high because of that.

Where does your magnesium come from?

Nearly all our magnesium comes from our Australian deserts. We have two secret locations; one in WA and one in Adelaide. It actually comes from organically certified salt lakes! Two times a year they crystallise and you have to drive 4 to 5 metres into the crystallised salt. The magnesium chloride evaporates into this stunning pure liquid underneath. That’s what we pump out, put into bottles and create flakes.

When is the best time to apply magnesium?

It makes absolutely no difference when you apply it; going out in the sun and getting sun exposure doesn’t affect it at all.

Where is the best place to apply magnesium before bedtime?

If you’re someone who struggles to get to sleep at night, the best place to apply magnesium is the lower half of the body. If you apply to the chest area it can stimulate brain activity.

What is the best way to use magnesium for limb spasms?

Spray into the hand and rub into the lower back to reach the sciatic nerve. This is the longest nerve in the body. Also apply behind the knee and the tops of the feet. When you relax the nervous system and the muscular system, this can actually stop the restless legs. We have had amazing results from people who are sleeping better!

How can magnesium help the symptoms of dry skin conditions?

Magnesium balances the pH in the skin and is perfect for children with their delicate skin. For dry and sensitive skin conditions such as mild forms of acne, eczema and dermatitis, magnesium can help to reduce dry and scaly skin. Magnesium is also responsible for removing toxins, so much so, that you don’t need to put anything else in the bath that can irritate the skin or interfere with what the magnesium is doing. Perfect for children with their delicate skin.

How can magnesium work for growing pains?

Try giving the child a warm, relaxing bath half an hour before lights out. If you want to use the Magnesium Pro spray directly on the area experiencing growing pains, either apply it when the child is experiencing the pain for instant relief or apply as a preventative before bedtime.

Where should you best apply magnesium for migraines?

The best place is on the back of the neck, at the top where it meets the skull. What brings on a headache is when the cardiovascular system begins to constrict. What we recommend is to daily pop a little bit of the spray onto the neck to prevent cardiovascular system constriction. At the time of the headache, you can also apply it to the areas of tightness and tension.

Sometimes we wake up in the morning still tired after a restless night. How should you take Magnesium to help improve sleep quality?

Spray (or roll) and rub your Amazing Oils product into your lower back, the tops of your feet and down the back of your legs about 15-20 minutes before bedtime, this will relax both your nervous & muscular systems, promoting a restful night’s sleep.
Because magnesium is also known for its energy production we recommend only using the magnesium on your lower body late at night as some people can experience an increase in energy if applied to their upper body. Upper body application is best during daytime.

Life can be pretty crazy sometimes and we know Magnesium can help manage stress. How do you take it to help manage stress and mood?

We recommend applying the AO magnesium (spray or roll-on gel) onto your chest in the morning (after a shower is ideal) to promote energy production, then onto the lower half of your body in the evening 10-15 minutes before bed, to help raise magnesium levels in your body.

If someone isn’t sure that they are getting enough Magnesium in their diet, what’s a safe way to take Magnesium, just in case?

The majority of us don’t get enough magnesium through our diet anymore mainly due to the deficiency of magnesium in the soil (caused by over-farming) which affects both plants and animals. There are many forms of magnesium supplementation, however topical methodology is currently growing fast in popularity, due to tangible, instant results people experience. Unfortunately, many oral methods don’t have a high assimilation of magnesium into the body, whereas topical magnesium chloride, one of the easiest and safest forms has been shown to have a greater bio-availability (uptake) than other types.

How can Magnesium help with PMS and cramps? Is it just preventative or can you use or take it when the pain starts? How do you take it?

We recommend increasing your overall magnesium levels especially in the week leading up to your cycle applying to your abdomen and lower back each morning and the lower body at night has been shown to have a preventative affect. You can also apply your Amazing Oils product such as Magnesium Pro symptomatically on the lower abdomen to assist in easing pain and cramping of the uterus, often experienced with during painful periods. Another crucial benefit to women maintaining sufficient magnesium levels is the positive effect it can have on mood and ability to get quality rest. Irritability, low mood, anxiety, stress and insomnia are all symptoms commonly experienced by women, especially during times of hormonal change.

Is Magnesium safe for the whole family to take?

Magnesium is safe for all members of your family. It is also completely safe for both children and even babies. In fact, topical application is the best for this age group, as it bypasses the digestive system. That said, it is important to be aware that the skin of a baby or child is much more permeable & sensitive than that of an adult. Because of this, we have introduced our Baby Range which contain a specially formulated solution for kiddies 3 months to 5 years old.

What’s the best way to take Magnesium to help prevent or manage muscle cramps and spasms?

All contraction (tightening) in the body uses calcium, all releasing of tension uses magnesium. We generally run out of magnesium long before calcium. As your muscles try to relax, a lack of magnesium can prevent the muscle from releasing.
Apply topical magnesium daily to muscles specifically targeting known problem areas or before and after physical exercise to promote endurance and reduced chance of injury.

A big thank you to Grace from Amazing Oils for sharing this information with us. Magnesium is clearly very versatile and a must have in any medicine cabinet.

For Magnesium Pro, always read the label before use and consult your healthcare practitioner if any symptoms persist. Remember that vitamins supplements should not replace a balanced diet.

Owen Thiele on His Skincare Saviors and Chaotic Holiday Plans

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Owen Thiele on His Skincare Saviors and Chaotic Holiday Plans

Byrdie Boy

Byrdie Boy is our ongoing series expanding the conversation around men and beauty—on their own terms. We spotlight tastemakers with distinct points of view, following them through the routines, rituals, and product go-tos that shape how they show up every day. From skincare philosophies to grooming essentials to wellness practices, we dig into the details that make them who they are.

When it comes to Owen Thiele, we’re making the right person famous. The actor is in the midst of a quiet ascent—the kind of era where you look back and realize he was subtly everywhere, all at once. With roles in buzzy shows like Adults, Overcompensatingand previously Dollfaceit can feel like watching Thiele play himself—a notion he jokes is just “bad acting,” but what actually comes through is something cooler: the ease of someone confident enough to bring themselves fully to the role.

That same authenticity came through in our interview, too. Thiele is really, well, real—the kind of real that makes for a great conversation. I found myself full-on belly laughing at several of his answers, with his rep messaging me afterward to say that Thiele and I had “matched” each other’s energy perfectly. We bonded over self-deprecating humor, a shared tendency to go a little too deep after one too many, and—on a much lighter note—our mutual love of looking flushed, why he wants his grandma to stop asking about a basketball career, and our ideal holiday party playlist.

With the most wonderful time of the year well underway, Thiele is teaming up with Baileys to celebrate the festive season with the launch of the Baileys Swap the Small Talk Cookie Pack—a tasty collaboration with Funny Face Barkery designed to help spark more meaningful conversations. Ahead, Thiele opens up about who he’s least excited to see this holiday season, his skincare saviors, and his stance on spinning the block in the name of Christmas cheer.

One Holiday Party Question He Never Wants to Hear Again

“Luckily, my family already cuts the small talk. We’re diving right into the trauma—we go deep quickly—but I think I’d love for my grandma to stop asking if basketball is in my future. She thinks my height is going to waste. I’d love for the holiday conversations to shift to skincare, something more useful, you know?”

His Current Skincare Routine

“I use the IS Clinical Cleansing Complex. I’m obsessed with it. I swear by it—I think I wash my face too much, but I just love the feeling of it. Then, I go in with the Chanel Les Beiges Healthy Glow Foundation. It’s super sheer, so hopefully you can’t tell I’m wearing it. After, I put the Armani Beauty Cheek Tint over my nose. I’m obsessed with looking flushed, a little flustered. I also spray my face with Rhode’s Glazing Mist. I top all of that off with Rhode’s Peptide Lip Treatment. Oh wait! I’m not done. I lather my body with Cyklar’s Naked Neroli Vitamin C Body Oil. It smells unbelievable. I get so many compliments.”

owen thiele / Byrdie


His Beauty Muse

“Hailey Bieber. I just watch everything she does. Glazed donut every single day.”

Who He’s Inviting to His Holiday Party

“My best friends, my aunts, uncles, some high school friends, and new friends I work with. Sabrina Carpenter’s ‘Fruitcake’ is blasting, mixed with some Nat King Cole, to make me seem cultured. We’re making hot chocolate with tons of marshmallows. Baileys, of course, and the Funny Face Bakery cookies—but with just my face on them.”

Courtesy of Bailey’s / Byrdie


Who He’s Least Excited to See This Season

“I’m probably least excited to see the parking attendant at The Grove. I will owe so much money because I’ll probably have spent at least 10 hours there.”

His Stance on Spinning the Block

“Oh, I love that. I just invited my ex over for a holiday dinner the other day, and it was so much fun. We’re actually friends, but I also love a little drama. You have to have a little drama. Plus, if you’re inviting the ex to a family function, it creates such a moment. Your cousins are in the bathroom whispering about how your ex is outside. I think also, every holiday season, you and your family need a common enemy. It helps the bond.”

What His Roles on ‘Adults’ and ‘Overcompensating’ Have Taught Him

“I’m definitely still in that phase of life, which makes it so fun to play these characters who are figuring it out, because I very much am figuring it out. So I feel just completely akin to these people. Sometimes I feel like Anton, sometimes a little like Owen. I think it’ll be fun as I age, as these characters age, to navigate identity along with them.”

owen thiele / Byrdie


What Fans Can Expect Next Season

“I hope Anton in Adults finds love because I feel like that’s the least stable part of his life. I hope George, in Overcompensating, finds deep friendship. It’s just so interesting that I get to play these two characters that are finding these things while I’m also finding these things. It’s very fun.”

His Dream Role

“I just watched Marty Supremeand I thought it was one of the best movies I’ve ever seen in my life. I don’t know where I fit in that world because it could be very confusing to see someone like me in that world, but I would die to be a part of any Josh Safdie film. I’d love to work with people who inspire me.”

owen thiele / Byrdie


One Thing He’s Leaving in 2025 and One Thing He’s Bringing into 2026

“I’m leaving self-deprecation. I even made a self-deprecating comment in this interview. I’m leaving it. I’m going to bring two things into the new year: manifestation—I need to keep manifesting, I need to keep dreaming. And then, I’m bringing Baileys.”

5 Big Takeaways From Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour Workouts

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5 Big Takeaways From Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour Workouts

There’s no doubt Taylor Swift works hard when she’s on stage. At each performance on the Eras Tourshe sustained more than three hours of nonstop movement. Fans are finally getting a glimpse of what it takes to prepare for her marathon of music and dancing in her new docuseries, Taylor Swift: The End of an Era on Disney+. Throughout the series, Swift reveals how she trained for the physical demands along with the moves that make her feel “rage” every time she does them.

While the routine she used to train is tailored to her job as a musical powerhouse, the lessons behind it are surprisingly relevant to anyone who works out. Here are the biggest fitness takeaways from Swift’s Eras Tour training regimen—and how to apply them to your own routine.

Endurance matters more than intensity alone

One of the clearest themes in Swift’s training is how much she prioritized cardiovascular endurance. Before the Eras Tour, her longest performance was about two hours and 15 minutes. “I never would’ve believed you if you’d told me we’d be doing a 3.5 hour show,” Swift explains in her documentary.

Rather than relying on short, all-out workouts, Swift focused on building the capacity to keep moving for long stretches of time. It’s a reminder that fitness isn’t just about how hard you can push for a few minutes, but how well your body holds up over sustained effort. For everyday exercisers, this means including longer, steady-state cardio sessions alongside higher-intensity workouts. Walking, jogging, cycling, or using the elliptical at a sustainable pace all help build the aerobic base that makes daily life feel easier.

Cardio supports performance, not just calorie burn

The “Shake It Off” singer wasn’t focused on trying to “burn off” anything—instead, she used cardio as a tool for better performance. Strong cardiovascular fitness allows her to sing, dance, and move without getting winded. “You don’t want them to see you panting,” Swift says.

It’s an important mindset shift for many people: Sure, cardio burns calories, but more importantly, it improves how efficiently your heart and lungs deliver oxygen. That can translate to better stamina during workouts, faster recovery, and more energy throughout the day.

Core strength is about stability, not six-packs

Another standout in Taylor Swift’s training was the focus on having a strong core. No, not to achieve a chiseled six-pack that matches her NFL-player fiancé’s, but to maintain her posture and balance while she’s moving across stage for hours at a time.

3 Lip Looks for Valentine’s Day

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3 Lip Looks for Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, a special time of year when we celebrate the love in our lives and put our passion on display with various shades of red and pink. In honor of love’s big day, I’m sharing my top picks for easy Valentine lip looks you’re sure to love.

Lip Look #1

I’m a firm believer that the most important love is self-love, so for my first pick, I’m giving myself roses – Candied Rose HydroPure Hyaluronic Acid Lip Gloss and Warm Rose Lip Pencil.

This duo’s compatibility is off the charts with lip-loving ingredients like Jojoba Seed Oil, Mango Seed Oil and Shea Butter. HydroPure Lip Gloss also gives an extra boost of hydration with Hyaluronic Acidso my lips feel soft and ultra-kissable. I line and fill with the pencil for definition and a flood of color before topping with the tinted gloss for a healthy dose of shine. The complementary shades deliver a feminine, swoon-worthy pink lip perfect for day or (date) night.

Lip Look #2

The foundation of every great love story is great chemistry – enter pick two, Forever Pink Just Kissed Lip and Cheek Staina long-lasting stain that adjusts to your body chemistry for a truly unique hue.

This multipurpose stain really gets medelivering the most beautiful pink tint to flatter my skin’s natural undertone. It’s a smooth operator, formulated with skin-softening Avocado Butter, Wild Rose Wax and Olive Butter, so it glides on like my favorite lip balm, only better. I love that I can also swipe it on my cheeks for a flirty flush. It’s easy, totally wearable and romantic. Remember, you don’t need a Valentine to be just-kissed.

Lip Look #3

My third and final pick really gets my heart racing! If you’re looking for commitment, look no further than Obsession Beyond Matte Lip Stainan ultra-long-lasting stain that will never break your heart.

valentine's day lip looks

This pigment-packed stain is true to its word, delivering powerful payoff and a beyond matte finish – no feathering, no fading. One swipe is all I need to get the bold, full-coverage look I love. It’s formulated with nourishing plant oils, so my lips look matte without feeling dry, and the touch of Tahitian Vanilla makes this beauty extra sweet. I also have it on good authority that it will easily last through a full one-pound box of chocolates.

Whether you’re getting gussied up for Galentine’s dinner or retreating to the couch for your favorite rom-com, there’s a lip look for every occasion. I hope you love these as much as I do.

XOXO

Ashley

Donna’s Recipe: Tabitha Brown’s Sweet Treat for Healthy Hair

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Donna’s Recipe: Tabitha Brown’s Sweet Treat for Healthy Hair

Desserts…for your hair?! Tabitha Brown shares the inspiration behind her vegan haircare line, Donna’s Recipeplus her essential tips for healthy hair and embracing self-love. While well-known for her vegan recipes, the actress and entrepreneur is actually not a baker. Her mastery of baking comes through her haircare.

Exclusively Interviewed by Madam J

Photo Credit:IG@ Donnasrecipe

Madam J: Thank you so much for taking the time to do this interview. We know you as America’s mom (also my auntie), vegan content personality, New York Times bestselling author, and award-winning actress. With all of that being said, we want to know what inspired you to turn your personal hair journey with “Donna” into a full hair care line with Donna’s Recipe.

Tabitha Brown: I did a big chop for the third or fourth time in my life in 2017. It was part of my healing journey from being sick. I started to let my hair grow back but because I had a car accident, I had stenosis in the top of my spine. After having to lay on my back to sleep for three months, I started to have thinning in the back of my hair. I was like, “Oh Lord, my hair’s finally growing back and I don’t want to lose hair in the back.”

I started mixing oils and creating my own products to grow my hair back. As I was reading ingredients, I didn’t understand everything and I didn’t want to put a bunch of chemicals on my head. Gina, my business partner, came to me and said, “I got this idea. You should do a haircare line.” I was like, “Girl, I’ve been trying to like mix my own and pray for God to send me somebody.” We originally launched with the Strength Hair Oil and the Biotin Gummies. Those were our only two products. But then with listening to our customers, everybody asked for shampoo and conditioner. They said “can you do it your way Tab?” I said okay, what can you find in your house and put in your product? That launched the Sweet Potato Pie Collection. I can’t bake but Donna makes desserts for your hair.

MJ: I love that. Donna’s Recipe is one of my favorite haircare brands. For someone who’s brand new to it, what would you say makes the line special?

TB: One is that it’s named after my hair. It’s also an experience. We use real ingredients that you will find in your kitchen. We use real sweet potatoes, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg – things like that. Before we had factories and formulas, our ancestors knew what they could use. Rice on the hair, sweet potatoes on the hair and of course it’s not vegan, but eggs. They figured it out. Bringing our ancestry to modern day makes us different. It separates us and nobody else is making desserts for your hair.

MJ: Hair growth is an issue for a lot of people. What do you think are the most commonly overlooked habits that make a difference in your hair’s growth and health?

TB: I treat from the inside out. A lot of times it starts with diet and not drinking enough water. Then it comes to what’s specific for your hair. A lot of times we’re so focused on our hair that we forget about our scalp – where our hair grows out of. Just being more intentional with scalp treatments, and making sure you have a regular routine of washing and caring for your scalp. Growing up, my mom used to grease my scalp and she would wash and braid my hair down. We should still be doing that and using products that agree with your hair. Your hair tell you what it likes and what it doesn’t like.

IMG 4612 2
Photo Credit:IG@ Donnasrecipe

MJ: What’s a good behind-the-scenes moment where you realized “wow, Donna’s Recipe is really changing lives?”

TB: It was during one of my first book tour meetings during the pandemic. We were all masked up but I got to meet people who were like “Girl I have alopecia. My hair has not grown in years. I started using your Strength Hair Oil and Biotin Gummies and this is my hair now.” People who are cancer survivors were so scared that their hair wasn’t going to come back. They started using the products and their hair came back quicker. Just sharing their stories with me, I was like, “Oh my God.” Like, it’s always bigger than us. Even though it came from a real organic place, I started Donna’s Recipe because I was in need. It really made a difference in my heart, in my mind and for our business. It became like we have to do this versus I want to do this. This is ministry.

MJ: Let’s say you could only grab one product from Donna’s Recipe before rushing out the door. What is the one product you’re grabbing and why?

TB: I live by the Strength Hair Oil. It’s what keeps Donna being Donna. I never travel without that one. No matter if I’m in braids, twists, my fro is out or if I’m doing it curly, I’m always going to use it on my scalp. These days my favorites are the Sweet Potato Pie Leave-In Conditioner, the Whipped Vanilla Cream Gel and the Mousse.

MJ: With all the events, travel, and the long days that you juggle; what’s your personal hair routine when you travel?

TB: If I’m not braided up, I’ll wash and condition my hair with the Sweet Potato Pie Collection. Then I twist it down so I can put a hat on to travel. I always take my Leave-In, the Whipped Vanilla Cream Gel and Mousse, a heat protectant, and my diffuser. At the hotel, especially if I’m not traveling with glam, I usually just do my own hair. That’s my regimen and it’s going to give me two looks in one. That first day I’ll rehydrate with a little water and the leave-in and then use the gel and the mousse. I’ll wear that and then on day two, Donna gets the lifting. I don’t use any more product. By day five, she’s a big old afro which is my favorite. I don’t do anything in the morning but take my bonnet off and shake her out a little bit.

MJ: Let’s say someone’s having a rough day, their hair won’t act right, and they’re ready to give up. What is something Donna would whisper to them to bring them back to life in loving their hair?

TB: To give her control. A lot of times we try to control our hair without having a real conversation. We have to really take time with our hair and get to know her, right? It’s really why I gave my hair a a name and personality. I think she cooperates with me because of that. Donna would say, “Let her know she’s in control, but y’all are in it together.”

MJ: What is one message you hope every person carries with them after hearing your story?

TB: To embrace the hair that we are born with. Embrace how it grows but also embrace the superpower that it is. Natural hair is so versatile, but even if you do relax it or you wear your hair straight, embrace it. It’s yours so treat it well.

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Photo Credit:IG@ Donnasrecipe

You can shop Donna’s Recipe online on their website or online & in-store at your local Ulta Beauty.

Green Serum Benefits: Who It’s For and How to Use It

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Green Serum Benefits: Who It’s For and How to Use It

The phrase green serum gets thrown around a lot, and it can mean different things depending on the brand. Sometimes it’s literally green because of chlorophyll or plant extracts. Sometimes “green” is more of a signal that the formula leans botanical, calming, and antioxidant-rich.

Either way, the reason people keep searching for green serum benefits is simple: many skin types do not want harsh actives every day. They want glow, clarity, and a healthier-looking tone, without irritation. A well-formulated green serum can do exactly that, as long as it matches what your skin needs.

1. What people usually want from a green serum

Most people reach for a green serum when they want one or more of these outcomes:

  • Calmer skin: less redness, less reactivity, fewer flare-ups.
  • Brighter tone: a more even, rested-looking complexion.
  • Antioxidant support: protection against daily environmental stress.
  • Hydration without heaviness: skin feels comfortable, not greasy.
  • Better “skin behavior” overall: fewer random rough patches and less dullness.

In other words, green serum benefits are often less about one dramatic change overnight and more about steady improvement that keeps your skin looking consistently good.

2. Green serum benefits that actually matter

When a green serum is formulated well, the benefits usually show up in a few clear ways:

  • Less inflammation: Skin looks calmer and feels less reactive.
  • Improved glow: Healthy-looking radiance, not a shiny or oily finish.
  • More even-looking tone: Skin looks smoother and more balanced in daylight.
  • Stronger barrier support: Skin holds hydration better and feels less tight.

This is why green serums are often a favorite for people who have tried too many harsh treatments and want something that helps their skin recover while still looking better over time.

3. Who a green serum is for

If you are wondering “is a green serum for me,” here is the clearest way to decide.

A green serum is usually a great fit if you:

  • have skin that gets red or irritated easily
  • want glow but do not tolerate strong acids or aggressive retinol well
  • live in a city or deal with daily environmental stress
  • want a daily serum that layers easily under moisturizer and SPF
  • need a “steady” product that keeps skin looking good consistently

It can also be a great choice if you are using stronger treatments at night and want your morning routine to be supportive, calming, and protective.

4. Who might need something else instead

A green serum is not always the best first step if your main goal is a dramatic change in one specific issue.

You may need a different lead product if you are dealing with:

  • severe acne: you may need targeted acne actives or professional guidance
  • deep pigmentation or melasma: you may need a stronger brightening plan plus strict sunscreen
  • advanced texture issues: you may benefit from in-spa resurfacing in addition to home care

That does not mean green serum benefits do not apply. It just means it may work best as a stabilizing “base” product in a more complete plan.

5. How to use a green serum for best results

Green serum benefits show up fastest when you keep the routine simple and consistent.

Morning routine

  • Cleanse
  • Apply green serum
  • Moisturizer
  • Sunscreen

Night routine

  • Cleanse
  • Green serum (or use it on nights you are not using stronger actives)
  • Moisturizer

Pro tip: If you are using retinol or exfoliating acids, a green serum often works well on your “recovery nights” to keep your barrier calm and hydrated.

6. A green serum option to consider

If you want a daily-use serum that fits the green serum category of glow, calm, and antioxidant support, the Daily Serum is a solid option to build around.

Use it consistently, give it a few weeks, and watch for the real signs of improvement: less redness, smoother texture, and skin that looks more even and healthy in natural light.

Final thoughts

The best green serum benefits are the ones you can actually maintain: calmer skin, steady glow, and a complexion that looks healthier week after week. If your skin is tired of being pushed too hard, a green serum can be the step that makes your routine feel effective again, without the irritation cycle.

5 Types of Toxic In-Laws—and How to Deal With Each

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5 Types of Toxic In-Laws—and How to Deal With Each

It’s no coincidence that toxic in-laws are such a popular trope in movies—and the star of some of the juiciest, most upvoted threads on Reddit. Understandably, getting along with someone else’s family is a major learning curve, and it’s even harder when their behaviors range from overbearing and controlling to straight-up disrespectful and cruel.

The dynamic is uniquely complicated because sure, they’re family—but not the one you’ve grown up with, which can make setting boundaries difficult. And any brewing tension isn’t just between you and them: You’ve got your partner’s emotions to consider, too, Nedra Tawwab, LCSW, a licensed therapist based in Charlotte, North Carolina and author of Drama Free: A Guide to Managing Unhealthy Family Relationshipstells SELF. That’s why criticizing every mildly frustrating thing they do can be a slippery slope—one that might lead your partner to believe you’re just looking for reasons to hate their parents.

So, what can you do? It depends on the situation, but the experts we spoke with agree it often comes down to setting boundaries and communicating them clearly and respectfully. Below, therapists break down the most common types of toxic in-laws—plus, their best advice for handling each one.

1. The ones who ignore your boundaries

When you’ve established your own rhythm in a partnership, it can be frustrating for an in-law to insist on doing things their way. Maybe you’ve made clear that your kids aren’t allowed to watch TV past dinner—and yet, your mother-in-law keeps sneaking in late-night screen time. Or your partner’s parents are always showing up unannounced when you’d prefer a heads-up.

What to do: This may be a situation where the message should come from their own child, Amy Morin, LCSW, a therapist based in Marathon, Florida and author of 13 Things Mentally Strong People Don’t Dotells SELF. “So many people don’t want to offend their mother- or father-in-law, so having your partner say, ‘Hey, we’re not comfortable with that,’ can be great,” she explains. After all, “they have a much longer relationship than you do.”

Another option is approaching the issue together as a united front. While speaking up, both therapists suggest focusing on the behavior, not their character. So, keep the tone respectful and firm with “we” statements like, “We appreciate you watching the kids, but we need you to follow our rules about screen time” or “We love having you come over, but next time could you please let us know beforehand?” Framing it as a collective choice (not just a personal preference) will hopefully prompt them to take your request seriously.

2. The ones who think they know what’s best for you

Whether it’s about how you parent, cook, or manage your finances, some in-laws can’t help but chime in with opinions you didn’t ask for. Oh, you’re still renting? You should’ve bought a house by now! Are you sure you want to sleep-train your baby?

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