Here’s How to Know If Your Routine Is Actually Doing Its Job
You’ve been using your skincare routine for a while now, but how do you know if it’s actually working?
Most people expect instant results—but real skin changes take time. If you’re wondering whether your products are helping or hurting your skinhere’s how to tell if you’re on the right track.
Signs That Your Skincare Routine Is Working
✔️ Your skin feels balanced – It’s not overly oily or dry. ✔️ Your breakouts heal faster – Even if you still get an occasional pimple, it clears up more quickly. ✔️ Your skin looks brighter and more even – Less dullness, more glow!
How Long Should Skincare Take to Show Results?
Hydration improvements? 24-48 hours
Brighter skin? 2-4 weeks
Fewer breakouts? 6-8 weeks
Fine lines & wrinkles? 8-12 weeks
Skincare isn’t instantbut when used consistentlyyour products will deliver real, long-term results.
Final Thoughts
If you’re wondering if your routine is working, give it time! Track changes in your skin over the next few weeks and focus on consistency.
👉 Want to speed up results? Our Go to Glow Set is designed to transform your skin in just 5 minutes a day!
If you’ve ever scooped your favourite Woohoo deodorant paste and thought, “Why is this a little lumpy?” this one’s for you.
We’ve been quietly tinkering behind the scenes to reformulate our entire paste range. Not because the OGs weren’t amazing (they absolutely were) but because we knew we could make them even better. And we’re all about levelling up your pit care so you can feel more confident than ever before!
What’s changed?
Goodbye, lumps!
Temperature fluctuations used to mess with our texture, sometimes causing graininess or that annoying crystal bloom. To fix that, we’ve added an ingredient called Polyglyceryl-3 Tetrastearate (try saying that five times fast) which keeps your paste buttery smooth. Scoop, swipe on, smile 🙂
Boosted B.O. & sweat protection.
We’ve supercharged the performance so your pits stay fresher, drier and calmer even in 40°C heat or high-stress meetings:
Zinc ricinoleate to trap and neutralise odour
Micronised bamboo powder to help absorb moisture and keep you dry
A perfectly balanced blend of bicarb soda + magnesium for gentler extra strength performance against BO (plus we still have bicarb free options too!)
Extra skin-loving goodness
These new pastes also feature:
Rice bran wax to provide longer-lasting protection and reduce friction (yep, less chafing!)
Jojoba esters to help condition and soften delicate underarm skin
Wild’s had a scent refresh.
We’ve made two changes to our Wild scent:
Swapped out honey myrtle for lemon myrtle, which gives the blend a fresh, citrusy lift (and is more sustainable long-term)
Removed Peru balsam and replaced it with natural vanilla for warmth and balance
Still very much Wild just a little zippier, smoother and more universally loved by sensitive skin.
Woohoo Natural Deodorant Family Pack (6 x Pastes)
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Same vibe. Just better.
We’ve kept everything you love about our deodorant pastes: natural ingredients, 100% recyclable, plastic-free packaging, and serious stink-fighting power. But now they’re creamier, more stable and better equipped to handle the chaos of Aussie weather (and life in general).
Pssst… Jingle is BACK!
We couldn’t re-launch the pastes without throwing in something extra festive fun. So yes, the rumours are true.
JINGLE is officially back, just in time for all your Pitmas in July celebrations.
If you know, you know that Jingle is our most-loved limited edition scent ever, and it sold out in a flash last time.
Once it did, we received an onslaught of emails and messages begging us to bring it back, and to launch it as a deodorant paste this time (not just a stick).
We couldn’t have you waiting another 12 months for this yummy scent to grace the Woohoo shelves again. So we got busy in the lab and brought it back, better than ever.
Now available in both stickand paste, Jingle features:
A delicious peppermint + vanilla candy cane scent
Extra-strength stink control
Bicarb-free formula for sensitive pits
Our new smoother, creamier texture
Whether you’re buying it for your own pits or gifting it to someone stinky you love, it’s worth grabbing one while you can. Once it sells out again, that’s it!
If that’s not worth celebrating, we don’t know what is. Happy Pitmas in July everyone!
Interparfums slightly lowered its 2025 revenue target on Wednesday, November 20. The group also withdrew its financial guidance for 2026, citing a combination of many different parameters, “both favorable and unfavorable.”
Interparfums now expects revenue of around EUR 890 million at current exchange rates, compared to approximately EUR 900 million previously.
Last month, the company behind Rochas and Solférino Paris, and the fragrance licenses for Jimmy Choo, Coach, Lacoste, and Lanvin, reported third-quarter results pressured by rising U.S. tariffs and, above all, a weakening dollar.
“After several years of robust growth and a near-doubling of sales in four years, growth slowed down in 2025,” stated Philippe Benacin, Chairman and CEO of Interparfums.
However, he added that the group remains focused on the future, with its sights set on “a very strong 2027, with several major launches,” including line extensions for its existing brands, the relaunch of the Annick Goutal brand, and the first launches for Off-White and Longchamp.
Despite a likely adverse economic environment and an unfavorable euro-dollar exchange rate, Philippe Santi, the group’s Deputy CEOexpects that the company will be able to keep up its profitability “relatively high” for 2026, without providing a specific figure.
It’s really easy to swear you’d never forgive a cheating partner. But real-life relationships are messy, layered, and influenced by so much more than one (or a few) bad moments — which makes the question of whether there are ever ‘good’ reasons to look past infidelity a complicated one to say the least.
Of course, all of this is subjective. An immediate dealbreaker for one person might be something another couple feels they can genuinely work through. But for anyone wondering what circumstance could possibly excuse this sort of betrayal, the short answer is none: “There is no universally ‘good’ reason to cheat,” says Idit Sharoni, LMFT, a couples therapist who leads an infidelity recovery program called It’s Okay to Stay. In more than a decade of practice, she says, “I haven’t seen one case where anyone said, ‘Okay, that’s a really great justification!’”
That said, the relationship therapists we spoke with agree that people underestimate how possible it is to recover from an affair and even grow stronger on the other side of it — either as individuals or, if you choose, as a couple.
Either way, forgiveness can be the very tool that provides clarity, closure, and a surprising sense of peace. While there is no universal formula for what makes staying acceptable, here are a few factors they’ve seen that at least make the choice to forgive understandable.
1. You’ve been together for a while and share a deep history
Needless to say, couples who have been together for decades have a lot more on the line than those in the early stages of dating. “If you’ve been married for a really long time, it’s not just a simple decision to say, ‘Let me end this relationship,’” Sharoni says. “It’s not an on-and-off switch.”
That’s because long-term duos have years of shared history and life experiences to take into consideration. Maybe they were there for each other during the death of a parent or child, a serious health scare, or sudden financial challenges, Sharoni says. “When you go through the relationship having supported each other in so many different ways, the infidelity doesn’t always automatically negate that.”
2. You rely on each other financially
Similarly, the practical circumstances of a long-term relationship — such as being financially tied to each other — can make the decision on whether or not to forgive a cheating partner incredibly complex. “I work with a lot of couples who’ve decided to stay together because it would be very expensive to maintain separate housing, separate lives, and they’ve figured out a way to make the situation work,” Lisa Chen, LMFT, a Los Angeles–based couples therapist.
On top of that, other money-related realities like shared debt, childcare costs, or relying on a partner’s health insurance can play a meaningful role in explaining why a person may be tempted to stay.
3. They came forward on their own
While it doesn’t suddenly erase the betrayal, an unprompted confession can make it easier to believe they won’t do it again, Patrice Le Goy, PhD, LMFT, a Los Angeles–based couples therapist.
“What I’ve noticed while working with people dealing with infidelity is that they’re often more inclined to forgive if they receive a genuine apology,” Dr. Le Goy explains. That’s because coming forward voluntarily — rather than being caught — can show that your partner is willing to take responsibility, even when they don’t technically have to. And that transparency early on, she says, can be a good first step in rebuilding the trust that’s essential for any successful relationship.
4. You need to free yourself from the resentment and pain
A common misconception is that forgiveness automatically means getting back together—which, Chen notes, isn’t always the case. For some people, letting bygones be bygones isn’t about excusing the behaviour or even saving the relationship: It’s about freeing themselves from resentment for the sake of their own wellbeing.
OLAPLEX® gifts are practical and luxurious, combining daily usability with salon-quality results.
There are gifts for every beauty lover – from fine hair to bold brows, there’s an option to match anyone’s self-care ritual.
Secret Santa is made simple when you are able to choose from a variety of hair masks, serums, and kits for universally loved beauty gifts.
The holiday season is filled with festivities and cheer, sparkling lights, and of course, lots of gift giving, which sometimes includes a Secret Santa exchange. Choosing the right gift for your Secret Santa can feel daunting, but for the hair and beauty enthusiast in your life, OLAPLEX® has got you covered. From indulgent treatments to everyday essentials, these science-backed solutions make it easy to gift a thoughtful, luxurious present that anyone would be thrilled to unwrap this holiday season.
Transformative Hair Masks
Few things say self-care like a hair mask. For the friend who loves to pamper themselves, a mask is the kind of gift that feels lavish while also giving them amazing restorative benefits to their hair. The Weightless Nourishing Mask® is perfect for finer hair types, offering hydration after 5 washes* without the extra heaviness and 2x instant, all-day volume. It immediately boosts shine, reduces breakage, and helps prevent snapping wash after wash to support length retention over time.
If your Secret Santa has thicker or a more medium to course hair texture, the Rich Hydration Mask® makes a thoughtful choice. This deeply restorative mask is formulated with Biomimetic Cuticle Technology to lock in intense hydration and strength, sealing hair cuticles to up to 5 washes to prevent moisture loss.
Both masks use OLAPLEX®’s bond-building technology to repair hair at the molecular level, making them the ultimate blend of luxury and long-term care.
Elevated Lash & Brow Care
Secret Santa gifts often fall into two categories: practical or playful. But nothing delights more than something truly unexpected. For the beauty enthusiast, the LashBond™ Building Serum is just that gift. Instead of another mascara, this serum works behind the scenes to support lashes that look longer, thicker, and more dense.
If brows are more their obsession the BrowBond™ Building Serum is the perfect match. It works to condition and strengthen the delicate hairs, encouraging fuller-looking brows in as little as 4 weeks, and for optimal results, it is recommended that the serum be used in the AM & PM on clean, dry skin. For a complete routine that they are sure to love, gift both the LashBond® and the BrowBond™ Serum to your Secret Santa.
Gift Sets for Every Beauty Lover
Sometimes choosing just one product feels impossible. That’s where OLAPLEX®’s array of Value Sets come in handy. With curated selections of fan favorites, each kit delivers a full routine in one beautifully packaged set.
From Biggest Bestsellers that come with a cute OLAPLEX® tote, to the Hair Repair Treatment Kit, to the Iconic Shine Set, there’s something for everyone. Kits can also be gifted as a whole or split up into multiple smaller presents, a Secret Santa hack that ensures everyone gets a little something extraordinary.
Choosing OLAPLEX for Your Secret Santa Beauty Gifts
Secret Santa gifting doesn’t have to be predictable. With OLAPLEX®, you can give the gift of confidence, indulgence, and self-care all wrapped up in one. From transformative hair masks to lash and brow help, and kits designed to delight any beauty icon, these presents make holiday gifting effortless and unforgettable.
Never before have we been to a city and had a more positive reaction than with Liverpool. It’s a city in everyone’s hearts and we can totally see why. Thankfully, the sun was shining for our two nights in the city but with so many great, affordable restaurants, brilliant shopping and museums and galleries to visit it’s clear we would’ve have a great time regardless (and we will definitely be back!).
HOW TO GET THERE
We travelled by train into Liverpool Lime Street (roughly 2.5 hours from London) and we were immediately in the centre of the city. It was quicker, really easy and can be affordable if booked far enough in advance.
WHERE TO STAY
We were hosted at Hope Street Hotel which was gorgeous and for a short boutique minibreak we can highly recommend. THE comfiest bed and huge bathtub, we were so sorry to leave! I loved the minimal but cosy aesthetic and rooms start from £89 a night.
Other places to stay that come recommended are Baltic Hotel and Lock & Key boutique hotel and if you wanted to mix up a beach visit, we have been wanting to stay at Aberley House on Crosby Beach for ages (we had it booked a few months ago but sadly couldn’t make it!).
WHAT TO DO
We found there were lots of lovely ‘pockets’ to the city so we walked around the Georgian quarter, the docks and the Baltic Quarter. There are great murals around the city too (including the Jurgen Klopp mural (a ‘must-visit’ for Chris!) and the infamous ‘The Liverpool Wings’ by Paul Curtis). We grabbed a coffee at Bold Street coffee and took in all the shops (Bold Street reminded us of Neal Street, Covent Garden with a lovely mix of eco stores, independent boutiques, vintage stores and a sprinkling of (cooler) chain restaurants like Pho, Honest and Bundobust) and as expected, everyone was so friendly and welcoming.
Liverpool is such a cultural city, so a gallery visit is a must. We fell in love with the Walker Art Gallery (free admission and opposite Liverpool Lime Street station) and loved the mix of pre-Raphaelite paintings (Albert Moore, Rosetti and JW Waterhouse) mixed with more modern works such as Lucian Freud and iconic works by Lowry.
We worked with The Walker Art Gallery whist in Liverpool but this is an editorial post.
Tate Liverpool is also a big pull, on the Royal Albert Dock (which is a great place to walk around anyway: lots of shops nearby – MerseyMade sells art and gifts by local creators and artists – as well as tons of restaurants) but we chose to visit the Museum of Liverpool (in the same area) as the building looked too good not to enter and we’d heard great things!
Museum of Liverpool
We absolutely loved it, it’s kind of an homage to the resilience of Liverpudlians – the history, adversity, the music scene, the sport, the talent, the community. It was really interactive (amazing for kids as well as adults) and they have Little Liverpool which is imaginative and educational play for under 6’s – it’s ticketed but free (we will 100% be bringing our kids back for this!).
Sefton Parkjust a bus ride (or you can rent an electric scooter!) away, is a beautiful park and you can visit the Palm House whilst there (it’s free but you can also donate, plus there’s a gorgeous cafe inside). And the best bit: Lark Lane is a buzzing street filled with independent shops and restaurants just up the road – perfect spot for lunch, a pint or just a coffee and meander around the independent stores and vintage shops (we stopped at Doogles for a coffee and donut).
WHERE TO EAT
We had a LOT of good food here, and most eateries were relaxed and affordably priced which we loved even more! For pasta and pizza, Buyers Club was excellent (and in January there were offering 50% off pizza and pasta Mon-Thurs). We were recommended ‘Mary’ by so many and it didn’t disappoint (order the Disco cauliflower) – there are a few branches across Liverpool and they also offer an excellent vegan menu.
For fancy cocktails, we met a friend in Little Cafe Du Coin and as a local, she recommended Madre for dinner (to be frank: my pal Amy pretty much drew us an itinerary for this City Guide!) which we loved and found it affordable (dinner for two – with one alcoholic drink – was £32 including tip).
From left: ‘Madre’, ‘Petit Cafe Du Coin’, ‘Buyers Club’
Other recommendations include: Rudy’s Pizza (we had this in Manchester – delicious), Vietnamese, Slim’s Gourmet Diner, Queens bistro (just round the corner from The Cavern!) and Mowgli.
If that doesn’t make you fancy a city break, then I’m not sure what does. We loved Liverpool and can’t wait to go back.
Nail growth and strength are important factors in maintaining healthy and beautiful nails. Many people struggle with slow or weak nail growth, leading to frustration and dissatisfaction with the appearance of their nails. Fortunately, there are steps that you can take to promote faster and stronger nail growth. From proper nutrition and hydration to nail care techniques and supplements, there are various strategies that can help you achieve the long, strong nails you desire. If you are looking for expert tips on how to grow your nails faster and stronger, stay tuned for our comprehensive guide on achieving healthy and beautiful nails.
The Importance of Proper Nail Care and Maintenance
Maintaining proper nail care and hygiene is essential for promoting faster and stronger nail growth. Regularly trimming and filing your nails can prevent breakage and promote healthier growth. Additionally, using a nail moisturizer and cuticle oil can help hydrate and nourish your nails, keeping them strong and resistant to damage. Avoiding harsh chemicals and using gentle nail polishes can also contribute to the overall health and appearance of your nails. By incorporating these simple yet effective nail care practices into your routine, you can support the growth of long, strong, and beautiful nails.
Tips and Tricks for Promoting Faster and Stronger Nail Growth
In this section, we will dig into specific tips and tricks to enhance the strength of your nail growth. From incorporating certain nutrients into your diet to techniques for improving circulation in your fingertips, we will explore various strategies that can make a noticeable difference in the health and appearance of your nails. By following these expert recommendations, you can further elevate your nail care routine and achieve the strong, beautiful nails you desire.
Here are some tips and tricks to enhance the strength of your nail growth:
1. Incorporate biotin-rich foods into your diet such as eggs, nuts, and seeds. Biotin is known to promote healthy nail growth.
2. Keep your nails well-moisturized by regularly applying a nourishing cuticle oil or hand cream.
3. Practice good nail hygiene by keeping your nails clean and trimmed to prevent breakage.
4. Avoid using harsh chemicals on your nails and opt for natural, acetone-free nail polish removers.
5. Massage your fingertips regularly to improve blood circulation, which can stimulate nail growth.
6. Consider taking a daily multivitamin or biotin supplement to support healthy nail growth from the inside out.
7. Protect your nails from damage by wearing gloves while doing household chores or working with harsh chemicals.
By incorporating these tips into your nail care routine, you can see noticeable improvements in the health and appearance of your nails. With consistency and patience, you can achieve strong, beautiful nails that you will be proud to show off.
Nail-strengthening Products and Supplements to Consider
To further fortify your nails, consider incorporating specialized nail-strengthening products and supplements into your regimen. Look for products containing ingredients like biotin, vitamin Eand keratinknown for promoting healthy nail growth and strength. Additionally, collagen supplements can aid in boosting nail health from within. Remember to consult with a dermatologist or healthcare provider before introducing any new supplements to your routine to ensure they align with your individual needs and goals. Stay informed on the latest advancements in nail care products to optimize your nail growth journey.
The Role of Diet and Hydration in Nail Health
Your nails reflect your overall health, making a well-balanced diet essential for their strength and growth. Incorporate foods rich in vitamins, minerals, and proteins, like leafy greens, nuts, and lean proteinsto provide the nutrients needed for healthy nails. Hydration is equally vital, as water aids in maintaining nail flexibility and preventing brittleness. Limiting consumption of processed foods and sugary snacks can also benefit nail health. Prioritize a nutritious diet and adequate hydration to support the growth and strength of your nails from the inside out.
A close-up of a womans hand with a flawless white manicure, showcasing elegant and neat nail polish.
Consistency is Key: Maintaining Healthy Nails for the Long Term
Consistency is vital in nurturing strong and fast-growing nails. Ensure you stick to a routine of proper nail care, including moisturizing, trimming, and protecting them from harsh chemicals. Additionally, maintaining a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals will support overall nail health. Remember, patience is crucial as nails take time to grow and strengthen. By committing to a regular nail care regimen, you can enjoy healthy and beautiful nails in the long run.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Growing Stronger, Longer Nails
1. How can I make my nails grow faster naturally?
To grow nails faster naturally, maintain a healthy diet rich in biotin, vitamin E, and protein. Daily moisturizing, regular nail massages, and avoiding harsh chemicals can also speed up nail growth.
2. What foods help nails grow stronger and longer?
Foods like eggs, spinach, almonds, avocados, and salmon are rich in essential nutrients like biotin, omega-3 fatty acids, and iron — all of which support strong and healthy nail growth.
3. What is the best natural remedy for nail growth?
Coconut oil, olive oil, and vitamin E oil are popular natural remedies that hydrate and strengthen nails. A DIY soak of lemon juice and olive oil can also promote faster nail growth.
4. How long does it take to see results from nail growth tips?
With consistent care, most people see stronger, longer nails in 2 to 4 weeks. Results may vary based on diet, nail care habits, and overall health.
5. Does biotin really help nails grow?
Yes, biotin is a B vitamin proven to improve nail strength and thickness. Biotin supplements or biotin-rich foods like eggs and nuts can support nail growth.
6. What should I avoid to prevent nail breakage?
Avoid biting your nails, using them to open objects, or exposing them to harsh cleaning products. Wear gloves during household chores and keep nails trimmed to reduce breakage.
7. Can nail polish affect nail health and growth?
Frequent use of harsh nail polishes and removers can dry out and weaken nails. Choose toxin-free nail polish and give your nails a break between manicures.
8. How often should I moisturize my nails and cuticles?
Moisturize your nails and cuticles at least once a day using cuticle oil or hand cream. This helps prevent dryness, peeling, and brittleness — key factors that slow nail growth.
Worried about hair loss, and looking for a solution? Here are 23 Reasons to Try HR23+ Hair Growth Supplement…
If you’re experiencing hair loss or thinning hair, you’re not alone—and you’re not without options. HR23+ is one of the most talked-about hair supplements on the market today, trusted by thousands across the UK and Europe. But what sets it apart from the rest?
Here are 23 powerful reasons to give HR23+ a try:
1. Formulated for Real Results
HR23+ is carefully developed to help prevent excessive hair loss and promote healthy hair growth in both men and women.
2. Dual-Action Formula
It targets the two biggest causes of hair loss: DHT sensitivity and nutritional deficiency.
3. Over 89% Customer Satisfaction
According to user surveys, over 88% of regular HR23+ users notice visible improvements in hair quality and shedding.
4. Natural & Safe
Made with premium-grade natural ingredients, HR23+ contains no drugs or harsh chemicals.
5. No Prescription Needed
Skip the doctor’s office. HR23+ is available without a prescription and is completely legal and safe.
6. Clinically Backed Ingredients
The formula includes clinically supported DHT blocking ingredients like saw palmetto, biotin, nettle leaf, pepita, and horsetail.
7. Biotin Powerhouse
Each dose delivers a full 5,000mcg of biotin—an essential vitamin for thicker, stronger hair.
8. Supports Hair, Skin, and Nails
It’s not just for your hair. Many users report glowing skin and stronger nails after consistent use.
9. Combats Shedding
HR23+ helps reduce excessive shedding, especially in early stages of thinning.
10. Strengthens Hair from Root to Tip
Ingredients like zinc, B-vitamins, and horsetail extract fortify the entire hair strand.
11. Women-Loved Formula
HR23+ isn’t only effective for men. It’s one of the few supplements equally effective and trusted by women with hormonal or seasonal hair loss.
12. Boosts Hair Density
Users report fuller, more voluminous hair with consistent use over 3–6 months.
13. Can Be Used Alongside Treatments
HR23+ works safely with topical treatments like minoxidil, PRP, micro needling, and laser caps.
14. Premium Quality Standards
Manufactured in the UK under strict quality controls with fully traceable ingredients.
15. No Nasty Fillers
Free from bulking agents, artificial preservatives, gluten, or dairy.
16. Marine Collagen Support
Collagen helps improve scalp health and hair structure—HR23+ includes high-quality marine collagen peptides.
17. Convenient Daily Capsules
Just 2-4 easy-to-take capsules a day to protect and nourish your hair.
18. Trusted by Tens of Thousands
With a loyal global customer base, HR23+ is one of the most favourably reviewed hair supplements on the market.
19. Discreet and Fast Shipping
Delivered directly to your door in discreet packaging, usually within 1–2 business days (UK), plus fast-tracked shipments to over 80 countries worldwide.
20. Money-Back Confidence
With positive customer feedback and repeat purchases, the brand stands by its product with confidence.
21. Backed by Research
Each active component is supported by published studies in the fields of dermatology and trichology.
22. Vitamins That Work
Vitamin C, iron, and selenium support overall follicle health and reduce oxidative stress on the scalp.
23. Feel-Good Factor
Beyond the science, users report improved confidence, mood, and well-being with healthier hair.
Is HR23+ right for you?
If you’re serious about tackling hair loss and nourishing your hair naturally, HR23+ might just be your next smart move.
Thousands are already seeing the difference. Will you be next? Get started on HR23+ today >
Black Friday is still a week away, but luckily, there are already hundreds of amazing deals available at Byrdie-favorite brands and retailers. Whether you’re hoping to upgrade your winter wardroberestock your skincare supplyor take care of your holiday shopping, don’t miss the chance to take advantage of huge savings on beauty and fashion must-haves. To make your shopping experience as seamless as possible, I scoured the Internet to find the very best deals to add to your cart from brands like Shark, Medicubeand Madewell—starting at just $9.
Best Black Friday Amazon Deals
Splurge-Worthy: Shark FlexStyle Air Styling and Drying System$250 (Originally $400)
Amazon Best-Seller:Laura Geller New York Baked Balance-n-Brighten Foundation$31 (originally $36)
Belif Moisturizing Bomb$58 (originally $67)
Cool-Girl Bag Trend: Madewell The Mylie Shoulder Bag$178 (originally $198)
Levi’s Baggy Wide Leg Jeans$56 (originally $80)
TikTok Viral (and Worth the Hype):Anua Heartleaf Pore Control Cleansing Oil$18 (originally $20)
Ugg Cozy Chenille Socks$20 (originally $30)
Hero Cosmetics Mighty Patch$16 (originally $22)
Crest 3D Whitestrips Professional Effects Teeth Whitening Kit$41 (originally $46)
Amazon Best-Seller: Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Mascara$9 (originally $14)
Shark FlexStyle Air Styling and Drying System
Amazon
Amazon is arguably the best destination to kick off your Black Friday shopping, as the retailer always has tens of thousands of deals on top-rated beauty and fashion items. This year, I’m picking up normally pricey beauty tools at a major discount, like the Shark FlexStyle (a Byrdie-favorite hair dryer) for $150 off. Amazon is also my go-to for shopping viral Korean skincare, such as the Anua Cleansing Oil and the Belif Moisturizing Bombto keep my complexion ultra-hydrated in this dry winter weather.
Finally, I can’t forget to mention Amazon’s often overlooked fashion selections. I’m eyeing this slouchy Madewell shoulder bag and a pair of classic, high-quality Levi’s jeanson sale for 30% off.
Anua Heartleaf Pore Control Cleansing Oil
Amazon
Madewell The Mylie Shoulder Bag
Amazon
Best Black Friday Beauty Deals
Hair Growth Staple: Rosemary Hair Duo Kit$77 (originally $96)
Staying on top of your beauty routine can get quite expensive, so Black Friday is the perfect opportunity to restock your tried-and-true favorites and experiment with new products. If you’re on your hair growth journey like me, a quality shampoo and conditioner like the Rosemary Hair Duo Kit can make the world of a difference—and you can snag it for almost $20 off during the sale. A flat iron that can style quickly and reduce damage also helps, so I’m purchasing this wide-plate iron from GHD while it’s on sale for more than $100 off.
You’ll also find deals on luxurious body care and fragrance, including the antioxidant-rich Brunel Awakening Body Oil and Maison Louis Marie’s No. 04 Eau de Parfum. Meanwhile, shop classic and up-and-coming makeup brands, with rare deals at Jones Road and Kulfi.
Jones Road Miracle Balm
Jones Road
Maison Louis Marie No.04 Bois de Balincourt Eau de Parfum
Louis Marie House
Best Black Friday Fashion Deals
DL1961 Taylor Relaxed Barrel Ultra High Rise Jeans
DL1961
In anticipation of the coziest time of year, I’m picking up soft sweaters and comfy pajamas during Black Friday sales. My all-time favorite bedroom slippersthe Cozy Earth Puffy Sheep Slipperare marked down to 20% off—I highly recommend them if you take your at-home relaxation seriously.
I’m also eyeing the Jenni Kayne Cashmere Stevie Polo and DL1961 Taylor Relaxed Barrel Ultra High Rise Jeans to create the perfect casual winter outfit, and they’re both $100 off this week. A textured leather bag is the cherry on top, and you can get this one from Melie Bianco for 40% off.
If the idea of strength training once conjured young men thrusting a barbell or popping out pullups, the tides have since turned: Lifting, even lifting heavyhas finally gained cultural cachet among women of all ages thanks to experts who’ve long espoused its benefits for women’s bones, metabolism, and more. But if there’s one part of resistance training that’s worth paying special attention to, particularly if you’re in perimenopause or beyond, it’s leg day. A strong lower body may be key to better brain aging, Louisa Nicola, MMed, a New York–based neurophysiologist who studies Alzheimer’s disease in women, tells SELF.
Nicola points to a 2015 study of 300-plus female twins that revealed a fascinating link: Having more powerful legs—a metric captured by sitting in a machine and pushing one foot as hard and fast as possible against a pedal—is associated with relatively better cognition 10 years later, measured by performance on tests of memory and processing speed.
A subset of the twin pairs who were identical and had significantly different leg power at the start of the study also had brain MRIs done 12 years later; and fitting with the above, the stronger-legged twins had significantly more grey matter and greater activation in certain brain regions during cognitive tasks, reflecting more resilient, better-aging brains. (The benefit of comparing twins? Beyond controlling for health and lifestyle factors, the researchers could also rule out genetics and early-life environment as potential drivers behind the brain differences they spotted, given these are shared between twins.)
And that’s not the only research to suggest ripped legs and a sharp mind go together. A 2018 study of 1,500-plus older adults found that those with greater leg strength performed better on tests of executive function (which assess abilities like problem-solving and paying attention). Multiple studies have also suggested a link between faster walking speed—which hinges on high leg strength—and brain power: Having a gait that’s slow or decreasing in speed is connected to drops in certain measures of cognition and greater dementia risk.
Below, Nicola breaks down why having fit legs may support brain health, especially for women, and offers a simple plan to improve leg strength and power.
Why greater leg power is linked with better brain function
Research suggests a few explanations that likely work in tandem, some of which relate to the power aspect and others, to building leg or muscle strength more generally.