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Simone Biles Answered FAQs About Her New Breast Implants

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Simone Biles isn’t done being candid about the plastic surgery she’s gotten. After recently telling her TikTok followers that she got a lower blepharoplasty “because I had THE WORST eye bags” and hinting at another procedure with the cherry emoji, she’s back on TikTok answering questions about her new breast implants.

For those who might have caught her interview with People earlier this month, the fact that she underwent a breast augmentation is not news, but she gladly went into greater detail about her procedure in a new post that gets ahead of any assumptions people may have. “I got my boobs done June 16th, but I know everybody wants to know who was the doctor, where’d I get them done, did I do over or under, and what size implants did I do,” the gymnastics champ says—and she answers that and more.

“I got them done in Houston, Texas, by Dr. Kriti Mohan. She’s the best,” Biles says, adding that they decided on placement under the muscle “based on my inspiration photos to get the most natural look.” As for the implant details: “310, high-profile, extra-filled, silicone.” She also reminds viewers that she’s 4’8″ tall and 105 with very broad shoulders. (Remember: If you’re interested in breast augmentation, it’s important to consult with your board-certified plastic surgeon about what’s best for you and not go in determined to get exactly what a celebrity says they got.)

Biles has the most to say about the recovery process. “Y’all lied. This shit hurts so bad. Everyone’s like, ‘Oh my god, after my surgery, I was up and at the movies, at the mall, I went shopping.’ Hell no. Your girl could not move by herself,” she says, explaining that she took a full two weeks to take it easy. Her husband even had to help lift her out of bed on the first day. “And I would say that—I don’t know, I’m just assuming—I’m a little bit more muscular than most girls that get them done, so going under the muscle and kind of doing all of that work really hurt my body.”

She admits that she was also initially concerned with how high and large they looked. “They were to my neck, and I did freak out, and I did talk to my doctor, and I was like, ‘Take them out. They need to be smaller, blah, blah, blah, blah, blah,’ because they look like aliens at first. Yeah, alien breasts,” she says. “But now they’re perfect.”

5 Best Heart Healthy Breakfasts

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You’ve been hearing that breakfast is the most important meal of the day since the elementary school days—but the truth is, it’s only as good as what’s on your plate (or in your bowl). When it comes to your heart health, what you choose to eat in the morning doesn’t just affect your afternoon—it can influence your longevity too.

“Eating breakfast lays the foundation for your day and it’s the little things you do on a daily basis that add up and affect your long term cardiovascular health,” says Sarah Alexander, MD, FACC, a cardiologist at Endeavor Health in Chicago.

A stack of syrupy pancakes with bacon on the side, while delicious, isn’t going to promote a healthy heart if that’s your daily, go-to breakfast. “Breakfasts high in refined sugars, saturated fats, and sodium can work against your heart health,” says Diala Steitieh, MD, a cardiologist and director of the Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Program at Weill Cornell Medicine and New York-Presbyterian Hospital in NYC.

Skipping breakfast can also have a negative affect on your heart health. Research suggests that not eating breakfast can increase your risk of high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.

So what should you eat in the morning to support your heart today (and for years to come)? We asked five cardiologists to share their go-to meals so you can set yourself up for success at the start of the day.

1. Protein-Packed Breakfast Wrap

Sometimes the tastiest (and most nutritious) breakfasts require the least amount of prep. When Kumar Sarkar, MD, a cardiologist at Northwell Health in New York City, needs to whip up a quick, heart-healthy breakfast before work, he makes a breakfast wrap that’s rich in healthy fats and protein.

Dr. Sarkar’s go-to wrap consists of a low-carb tortilla (he likes Mission Foods’ Carb Balance), one cooked egg, two slices of lean turkey, half an avocado, a handful of fresh arugula or sprouts, and a dash of harissa or sriracha. “This wrap is a powerhouse of protein and fiber, which will keep you full and satisfied well past breakfast,” Dr. Sarkar says. Not only that, but the avocado is rich in monounsaturated fats, which help lower the bad cholesterol (LDL) in your body.

Not a fan of turkey or arugula? Don’t have harissa sauce in your cabinet? No problem. You can swap in your own favorite lean protein, greens, and sauces—there are so many ways to make a nutrient-dense, protein-rich wrap.

2. Customizable Chia Pudding

When it comes to breakfast, Ailin Barseghian El-Farra, MD, a board-certified UCI Health cardiologist in Orange County, California, likes to keep things simple and high in fiber. That’s why she gravitates toward prepping chia seed pudding ahead of time—it lets her slow down and enjoy breakfast before work.

9 Benefits of Yogurt Face Masks

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Did you know that one of the foods that you have in your fridge right now has been around since about 9000 BC?

That’s right.

Yogurt, a modern day breakfast champion and probiotic wonder, has been eaten for thousands and thousands of years and it hasn’t changed much since.

Yogurt was once known as “the food of the gods” for its healing powers on the gut and its delicious, tangy flavor.

But did you know that aside from all of its godly-good benefits, yogurt can also make a great face mask?

In recent years, this age-old superfood has been making its way into the skincare and self-care routines and for good reason!

Here are 9 amazing benefits yogurt can have for your skin!

Benefits of a Yogurt Face Mask

Benefits of a Yogurt Face Mask

Some form of yogurt has been found in almost every country which consumes dairy.

For thousands of years, this tangy probiotic-rich food has been making a killing as an easy and quick breakfast meal or decadent dessert option.

Americans spent over 8.2 billion dollars on yogurt alone in 2018!

Now, yogurt is making a comeback in the skincare industry.

At only $4-5 per pint, yogurt makes for a super affordable skin care addition and its benefits back it up!

No matter what your taste buds say, when it comes to face masks, plain greek yogurt should be your go-to (that is, if you don’t have a dairy allergy and are not vegan).

It’s also richer in many vitamins and minerals you often see in many store-bought skin products including zinc, Vitamin B, calcium, and lactic acid.

Greek yogurt is thicker than most yogurts, making it easy to apply on your whole face.

Not only does plain greek yogurt give you the most skin goodness in every pint, it’s a great base for adding other natural ingredients like honey and turmeric for a mask that’s targeted to your skincare needs.

Now, let’s get into the benefits you can expect from the humble yogurt face mask.

1. More moisture!

When applied to the skin, yogurt has been proven to increase and lock in moisture.

Calcium, which plays a critical role in your epidermis, is poured back into the skin through calcium-rich yogurt to help restore healthy and hydrated skin.

You also have lactic acid to thank!

Lactic acid contains humectants that help to attract moisture from the air by drawing in water vapor and absorbing it below the skin’s surface.

Keep reading to see the other benefits yogurt’s lactic acid has for your skin!

2. Fight fine lines!

Lactic acid is a popular ingredient in many anti-aging skin care products due to its ability to reduce fine lines and wrinkles and restore elasticity to your skin.

It also contains potent antioxidants that fight off damaging free radicals from affecting your skin and causing signs of aging.

3. Get your glow on!

Lactic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that dissolves dead skin cells on the surface.

By removing the top layer of dull and dry cells, it stimulates the cells to renew faster, revealing brighter, younger skin underneath.

Vitamin B supports cell regeneration and helps to produce more healthy cellular fats keeping your skin looking fresh, plump, and glowy.

4. Turn up the brightness!

Yogurt can actually slow the production of melanin and brighten the skin overall.

This happens when the lactic acid found in yogurt inhibits the production of tyrosinase, an enzyme that’s responsible for the production of melanin.

This has great promise for brightening under-eye bags and dark spots.

5. Even out skin tone!

Yogurt can be used to improve the appearance of dark circles, acne scars, and blemishes thanks to zinc (and, of course, lactic acid)!

These two ingredients work as a team to exfoliate and remove dead cells while encouraging cell reproduction and tissue growth.

By applying 2-3 times a week, yogurt can help to visibly reduce dark spots and skin tone unevenness.

6. Heal sunburn!

Yogurt is extremely cooling and relieving for sun-burnt skin, but it can actually help to heal it too!

Zinc has incredible anti-inflammatory properties that help to soothe burning and itching.

When applied as a face mask or used to spot-treat especially sun-burnt areas of the body, yogurt can help to reduce redness and inflammation and provide much needed hydration to your skin (more on that below)!

You can also add in honey or aloe for extra hydration.

Here’s a tip: if your tan lines got a little wonky and uneven (thank you sunglasses and face masks!) you can use yogurt’s brightening powers to even out dark spots – yogurt can suppress the production of melanin!

7. Protect against skin damage!

While yogurt works wonders for painful sunburn, it can also help to prevent getting sunburn in the first place.

Yogurt, especially greek yogurt, is rich in probiotics.

Studies have shown that these probiotics may mitigate damage caused by UV rays when ingested and when applied topically.

This is because the yogurt creates a barrier on the skin to protect it from free radicals.

Try a yogurt mask the night before, froyo at the beach, then another yogurt mask the night after to help alleviate that sunburn!

8. Blemishes be gone!

Or rather, bacteria be gone.

Yogurt’s many probiotics help to bring down inflammation and soothe any acne you may already have.

At the same time, zinc’s anti-inflammatory properties work in tandem to alleviate the appearance of acne and regulate the skin’s sebum production, the oil that causes acne and plays host to bacteria.

Yogurt can also be used to treat the symptoms of other inflammatory skin conditions like rosacea, psoriasis, and eczema!

9. Fight infections!

Yogurt can also help to fight fungal infections with daily application.

Yogurt is filled with good-for-you bacteria that produce lactic acid.

This acid fights and kills fungus on the skin while enhancing the pH.

It can also help to relieve any itching or burning you experience as a side effect.

Who knew?

Get to the Fridge – DIY It!

How to Choose the Right Yogurt

We love this at-home DIY because it is so simple and so customizable!

I’m sure we could all use a little hydration boost, especially as the summer days drag on.

If you’re itching to try an at-home face mask, here are a few tips for picking the right yogurt next time you head to the grocery store.

1. Go for Organic

Look for organic, grass-fed yogurts that are made from goat’s or sheep’s milk.

Just like clean beauty products, you’ll want to shop for clean, simple yogurts that don’t contain any preservatives or additives to keep your skin and the rest of your body free to do its thing!

2. Look for Live Cultures

Choose yogurt with active or live probiotic cultures.

(Siggi’s claims to have 5 different strains and can be found in most grocery and health stores!)

3. Know your allergies

If you have a milk allergy, try a plant-based alternative like cashew-gurt that also contains plenty of free-radical fighting probiotics.

DIY Yogurt Face Masks

What to Add

Now that you’ve picked the right base, it’s time to customize.

With just a simple scoop of yogurt, these DIY face masks can be customized to add extra anti-aging, sunburn relieving, and hydrating benefits to your new self-care face mask routine.

If you’re a naturalist or have picked up your own kitchen-sink face masks that make you and your skin happy, you can easily incorporate them into a yogurt mask!

Here are a few of our favorite additions:

1. Honey

Honey does it all.

Honey is soothing, emollient, and humectant – meaning, it attracts and retains moisture like a dream!

It can be used to treat eczema, psoriasis, and sunburn.

Basically, it’s the perfect sidekick for a yogurt face mask (or parfait).

2. Oats

Add in another humble breakfast food staple – oats!

Oats and grains are rich in antioxidants and minerals and can work as an exfoliant when dry or a moisturizing agent when cooked.

3. Turmeric

For an extra acne-fighting boost, stir in some turmeric into your yogurt face mask.

Turmeric is anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and antibacterial.

It helps to fight future acne while soothing irritation and redness.

Plus it brings out your natural glow!

4. Essential oils

If you’ve tested and tried your favorite essential oilsthey can be a great addition to your face mask to add to the relaxing spa-like treatment.

Our favorites are lavender, chamomile, and rosemary.

Be careful not to rush into it.

Before you try any essential oils, keep in mind your allergies and test them out on a very small portion of your skin before diving in and adding them to a face mask.

Yogurt mask recipe and application

Here’s an easy DIY brightening yogurt face mask “recipe” that you can experiment with.

All you need is:

  • ¼ cup of greek yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon of honey
  • 1 tablespoon of oats.

You can keep it simple to start, then swap out any (or all) of the above ingredients for your perfect DIY mask!

  • 1. Wash your face with your regular cleanser and pat dry.
  • 2. Place a 1/4 cup of greek yogurt into a bowl. Mix in a tablespoon of dry oats and a tablespoon of honey.
  • 3. Test the yogurt on a small portion of the skin. You can begin adding other ingredients in teaspoons (or drops for essential oils) until you get a consistency that you feel comfortable with.
  • 4. Heap greek yogurt onto the back of a spoon and apply, being careful to avoid the skin around the eyes.
  • 5. Let sit for about 15 minutes.
  • 6. Rinse off with warm water and pat dry. *It may feel heavy or oily at first, but try not to scrub it all off! It will soak in leaving you with fresh, hydrated, and happy skin.

FarmHouse Fresh Pajama Paste Yogurt Face Mask

Products Using Yogurt

If you want to save the good stuff for breakfast, here are some products that reap all the benefits of this probiotic-rich food/skincare superstar.

Ilike Organic Skin Care Yogurt Power Peel

This Power Peel is exactly what it sounds like!

It can be applied to your face and body to exfoliate dead and dry skin off the body.

It will leave skin looking vibrant, youthful, and bright – but be careful.

It can be harsh for sensitive skin types.

FarmHouse Fresh Pajama Paste Soothing Active Yogurt Mask

Clay, yogurt, honey, oats – all in one pot!

What more could you ask?

These ingredients work together to exfoliate, tighten, and hydrate the skin while minimizing the look of pores.

It’ll feel a little tingly, so if you have sensitive skin but still want to try yogurt in your skincare routine, you’ll be better suited to try one of the other products listed below.

FarmHouse Fresh Splendid Dirt Nutrient Mud Mask with Organic Pumpkin Puree

As if we couldn’t get more excited for fall, FarmHouse created this intensely purifying and moisturizing pumpkin face mask!

This mask contains active yogurt cultures to detoxify your skin while leaving it looking radiant and smooth.

PS it tingles too!

FarmHouse Fresh Splendid Dirt Nutrient Mud Mask with Organic Pumpkin Puree

This product uses all the benefits of yogurt as a daily hydrating cleanser rather than a weekly indulgence.

It also uses marshmallow root, cucumber oil, and milk of magnesia to balance bacteria and stimulate collagen production.

The 3-Step Skincare Routine for Healthy, Glowing Skin – Merindah Botanicals

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You Don’t Need Expensive Skincare!

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by 10-step skincare routinesyou’re not alone.

The truth is, you don’t need complicated skincare or expensive products—just a simple routine that actually works.

Step 1: Cleanse & Exfoliate in One Step

A good cleanser removes dirt, oil, and makeupbut exfoliation is just as important. Instead of using harsh scrubs, try cleansing with a Konjac Sponge—a natural way to gently exfoliate and boost radiance.

✔️ Cleanses without stripping the skin
✔️ Gently buffs away dead skin cells
✔️ Preps your skin to absorb moisture better

Step 2: Tone for Balance & Hydration

A hydrating toner helps restore pH balance and improves moisture retention.

✔️ Reduces redness and irritation
✔️ Prepares skin for moisturiser
✔️ Boosts hydration for a lasting glow

Step 3: Moisturise & Protect

A nourishing moisturiser or face oil locks in hydration and strengthens the skin barrier—keeping your skin soft, smooth, and healthy.

✔️ Prevents moisture loss
✔️ Protects against dryness
✔️ Keeps skin feeling supple all day

Skincare doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. With just three simple steps, you can have healthy, glowing skin—without the hassle.

👉 Try the Go to Glow Set to simplify your routine in just 5 minutes!

The skin care set for the skin you’ve always dreamed of!

Your natural 3-step glow up routine to glowing skin in 21 days.

  • Long-lasting hydration
  • Assists with the appearance of blemishes & breakouts
  • Creates a natural glow
  • Helps preserve the youthful appearance of the skin

Preparing Your Skin for Lasers & How to Maintain Results – skinfo

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Skin resurfacing lasers can significantly improve many issues such as sun damage and wrinkles. However, it is a good idea to prepare for these treatments to ensure you get the best results. Darker skin types or people who are prone to hyperpigmentation benefit by using pigment suppressing products prior to laser. The provider may prescribe a hydroquinone product such as skinfo® Bright RX ($110, 1.6 oz) to inhibit melanin (pigment) production. In addition, all skin types should be wearing an SPF daily because the healthier the skin is, the better it will respond to the treatment.

After your laser resurfacing treatment, you will go home with a post treatment regimen and instructions on how to proceed the days following. The epionce® Essential Recovery Kit ($33, 3.85 fl oz) has everything you need to soothe and calm sensitized skin. Keeping the skin well hydrated is an important element for the healing process. Using a hydration spray like Avene® Thermal Spring Water Spray ($9, 1.6 fl oz) will bring down the temperature of the skin and can be used as needed.

Protecting your skin post-treatment is crucial and using a full spectrum sunblock such as skinfo® Pure Protection Ultra ($43, 4 fl oz) is mandatory. This all-mineral block contains 20% zinc oxide to protect even the most sensitive skin from harmful UV rays. Continued use of a daily SPF will be the best thing you can do to maximize the results post-laser. Adding a product to boost collagen production like DefenAge® 8-in-1 Bioserum ($165, 1 fl oz) into your
daily regimen helps you to achieve the optimal outcome from your laser rejuvenation. This biologically advanced serum will continue to improve the overall health of your skin and will continue to get better over time!

How To Organize Your Makeup Collection – Besame Cosmetics

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When was the last time you went through your makeup collection and did a deep clean? Whether it’s a cleanout for the new year or just another item on your spring cleaning checklist, going through your makeup collection and getting it in order is something you should do at least once a year. And you might find that it’s actually fun to organize makeup— you get to look through your collection and find treasures you forgot about! Here are some tips to help you get started organizing your makeup collection.

Less Is More

The first thing to do when organizing your makeup collection is to go through and discard any expired products. Cosmetics don’t last forever, even high quality products! Most makeup has a shelf life of about one to two years. Any older than that, and you may have a product that won’t apply correctly… or worse, even be dangerous. This is especially true of lip products and anything that goes near your eyes.

If your makeup doesn’t have an expiration date on it, or you can’t quite remember when you bought it, try giving it a good sniff. If it smells sharp or rancid or has a chunky or clumpy texture, you should throw it away. This also goes for your nail polish, which will definitely change texture as it ages. If you really love the packaging, you can carefully and thoroughly wash it out and keep it around for decoration, or you might even be able to upcycle it and create something useful!

After you’ve thrown out any expired products, take a look at your collection and think about what you use regularly, what you use occasionally, and what you use rarely or never use. You might find that a classic red lipstick is your go-to for daily wear, and that you have a few things that you wear maybe once a month or for special occasions. You’ll definitely want to keep those if they’re still safe to use. But what do you do with those products you just aren’t in love with?

For products you never wear, especially products you don’t like, don’t feel bad about tossing them! But if you have in-date products that you haven’t opened or are very gently used (like a lipstick you wore once), you can actually donate these items! There are several organizations that will take your unused products, sanitize them, and give them to people in need. Makeup is a little luxury that can really help someone feel more comfortable and confident!

Your brushes aren’t immune to spring cleaning, either. You should focus on having the right brushes to create any makeup look you like, and make sure that the brushes you do keep are high quality. If you’re at the other end of the spectrum and only have one or two brushes, you might want to invest in a good makeup brush set. This will help you when you’re putting looks together!

Makeup Storage

If you keep your makeup in the bathroom, you really should move it somewhere else. Why? Because the heat and humidity of the bathroom will damage your collection over time. Even if your beauty area is primarily in front of the bathroom mirror, storing it elsewhere will keep your makeup looking great for a longer time.

Whether you use a tote, a bag, a train case, or another storage method, you should make sure that your product cases are clean before you put them away.  For your brushes, you should make sure that you’re storing them vertically with the brush head up, or else in a brush roll. You should also check your brushes for loose fibers; as brushes age, they start to shed. Like everything else, brushes do have a lifespan, and if your brush is shedding too much, it might be time to say goodbye.

For your most frequently used products, you might find it useful to have them displayed where you can easily find them every day. It might be easier for you to keep your favorite lipsticks in a lipstick organizer on top of your dresser or bedside table, along with your go-to lip balm.

Keep It Clean

Before putting your makeup back in its storage, clean the case or drawer by giving it a good scrub! You should also take the opportunity to clean your makeup brushes with some gentle soap and warm water. Go through your makeup and clean it up, too— if there are smudges on your lipstick tubes or fuzz on your cake mascaragently clean those off so that everything is tidy and in the best shape possible before you use it again.

Once you’ve cleaned up your collection, it’s time to neatly organize it. At Bésame, we like to do this by decade, but you can do it by color, style, type of makeup— whatever works best for you! Tell us in the comments: How do you like to organize your makeup?

Normal memory loss, dementia, or Alzheimer’s?

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As we grow older, all parts of our bodies experience changes, including our brains. Forgetfulness is a common part of aging, and everyone experiences mild memory lapses from time to time. For example, we forget where we left things, people’s names, or even appointments. These are typically a normal part of aging. However, if memory problems become more frequent or severe, a doctor should be consulted for evaluation. If symptoms progress to dementia, it can make it difficult to live independently and manage daily activities.

Signs that memory impairment may be more significant include:

  • Asking the same questions over and over.
  • Becoming increasingly confused about time, people, and places.
  • Getting lost in places you used to know well.
  • Having trouble following directions.
  • Not caring for yourself properly—for example, not bathing regularly, eating poorly, and acting in an unsafe manner.

Everyone ages differently. How we age is affected by our genetic factors, which we cannot change, but also by things we have more control over, such as our lifestyle and the environment we live in. Eating a healthy diet, being physically active, and maintaining good social relationships can help us lead a healthy life and decrease our risk of developing conditions (including mental impairment) as we age. So, how do you distinguish between normal memory changes and dementia? And where does Alzheimer’s disease fit in?

MEMORY LOSS

Memory loss can progress through different stages, from age-related memory impairment and mild cognitive impairment to dementia. The chart below explains the differences between these distinctions.

Memory Impairment

Age-associated memory

impairment (considered a

normal part of aging)

Memory difficulties:

  • Are not serious enough to disrupt daily routines
  • Do not affect the ability to complete tasks as usual
  • Cause some difficulty learning and remembering new things
  • Are not caused by an underlying medical condition
Mild cognitive impairment Memory difficulties:

  • Are not serious enough to disrupt daily routines
  • May include other symptoms such as disorientation and difficulty speaking
Dementia Memory difficulties:

  • Are significant enough to disrupt daily routines
  • Make learning new things more challenging
  • Make it hard to complete tasks that were once familiar
  • Cause others to notice changes in behaviours or abilities

WHAT IS DEMENTIA?

Dementia is not a single disease. It is a general term that describes a group of symptoms associated with various underlying conditions. These symptoms cause changes in thinking, memory, and reasoning skills that are serious enough to affect daily life, the ability to function independently, plus behaviours, feelings, and relationships. Some forms of dementia can be reversed; others are irreversible.

The brain is comprised of distinct regions, each of which is responsible for different functions (such as memory, judgment, and movements). When cells in a certain region are damaged, that region cannot carry out its functions properly.

WHAT IS ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE?

Although many people think dementia and Alzheimer’s disease are the same thing, they are not. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia, accounting for 60% to 80% of all dementia cases. Increasing age is the greatest known risk factor for this type of dementia. When it affects people younger than 65 years of age, it is known as younger-onset Alzheimer’s or early-onset Alzheimer’s.

Alzheimer’s changes typically begin in the brain region that affects learning, and the most common early symptom is difficulty remembering newly-learned information. However, many people experience trouble remembering things sometimes, so having this symptom is does not confirm that a person has Alzheimer’s disease.

Important components of Alzheimer’s are two abnormal structures that can form in the brain, called plaques and tangles. Although most people develop some plaques and tangles as they age, people with Alzheimer’s develop far more and they develop in a predictable pattern. While scientists don’t know exactly how plaques and tangles play a role in Alzheimer’s disease, they do believe that they act by blocking communication among nerve cells.

SYMPTOMS OF DEMENTIA

The symptoms of dementia vary depending on the type of dementia a person has. The table below explains the symptoms associated with various types of dementia.

Dementia Symptoms

Type of Dementia Typical Symptoms
Alzheimer’s disease Problems with short-term memory, paying bills, preparing meals, remembering appointments, getting lost in familiar places
Fronto-temporal dementia Difficulty planning or organizing activities, having trouble communicating with others, acting inappropriately in social or work situations
Lewy body dementia Memory loss, problems with movement or balance (such as stiffness or trembling), daytime sleepiness, confusion, sleep disturbances, staring spells, visual hallucinations
Mixed dementia Several types of dementia can affect a person at the same time, and this can affect which symptoms the person will experience
Vascular dementia Symptoms vary depending on the part of the brain that is affected, and they may overlap with symptoms of other types of dementia.

TREATING DEMENTIA

Currently, there are no treatments that can reverse cognitive decline and cure irreversible types of dementia. However, there are treatments that can help manage challenging symptoms and help maintain the quality of life for individuals living with dementia. Medications that have been approved in Canada for the treatment of dementia include donepezil, rivastigmine, and galantamine, which improve communication between brain cells, and memantine which helps protect brain cells and improve their function. The medications selected for each patient will depend on the type of dementia the person has, how severe the symptoms are, and how quickly the disease is progressing.

Advances in the treatment of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease continue to evolve, offering reasons for optimism about the future of prevention and treatment. For instance, two newer biologic medicines, lecanemab and donanemab are currently under review by Health Canada with the goal of slowing cognitive decline in patients with Alzheimer’s disease. Additional treatments like these are expected to emerge in the coming years.

If you have any questions or concerns about any of the symptoms mentioned that you or a loved one may be experiencing, it is important to speak with your healthcare team. Early intervention may help reduce the progression of the disease and improve the person’s individual’s quality of life. If medications are prescribed, your pharmacist can provide guidance on how to take them and help you manage any potential side effects. They can also organize your medicines into blister packs to help with memory concerns and reduce your chances of missed doses or errors. Speak to your pharmacist to learn how we can help support your needs.

The Sitting Pretty Halo Hair Extensions Holiday Gift Guide

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Between late-night wrapping sessions, early-morning coffee runs, and endless to-do lists, the holiday season can feel anything but calm. This year, we’re here to change that.

At Sitting Pretty, the best gifts are the ones that feel easy. Think, gifts that spark confidence, simplify routines, and remind you (and the women you love most) that care doesn’t need to be complicated to be meaningful.

From confidence-boosting halos to cozy nighttime rituals, we’ve curated our favorite ways to give the gift of good hair.

1. The Foundation Set For Everyday Ease

Includes: The Halo, Garment Bag in Plum, Tailcomb
Perfect for: The woman who’s always on the go, or just beginning her Halo journey.

The Foundation Set is our love letter to easy beauty. Designed to simplify styling without sacrificing care, this curated trio keeps both The Halo and natural hair in their best condition, wherever life takes her.

For the friend who values simplicity as much as style, this set is the foundation of every good hair day, whether she’s running to meetings, slipping into a little black dress, or simply heading out for her morning coffee.

Read Next: How I Travel With My Halos (Without Losing Their Shape)

2. The Overnight Care Set For Self-Care Lovers

Includes: Heatless Curlers, The Pillowcase in Purple, Silk Hair Scrunchies
Perfect for: The friend whose nighttime ritual is sacred.

Because beauty sleep should actually be beautiful.

The Overnight Care Set is where luxury meets intention. Each piece in this trio is designed to protect, restore, and elevate the simple act of rest. The silky Pillowcase helps reduce friction and frizz while keeping hair hydrated overnight. The Heatless Curlers encourages damage-free hairstyling, and the Scrunchies are soft enough to secure hair without creasing or tugging.

It’s the kind of small luxury that transforms everyday routines into moments of calm—reminding her to slow down, breathe, and indulge in the quiet.

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Read Next: The Real Reason Your Hair Is Thinning—And What To Do About It

3. The Get Ready Set For The Multi-Tasker

Includes: Garment Bag in Plum, Zero Bend Clips, Tailcomb, Silk Hair Scrunchies, Heatless Curlers
Perfect for: The friend who’s juggling late nights, early mornings, and everything in between.

We all have that friend (or sister) who does it all, and makes it look effortless. The Get Ready Set was made for her.

From prep to polish, this set keeps her styling routine streamlined and damage-free. The Garment Bag ensures her Halo stays protected and ready to go. The Clips and Tailcomb make sectioning and styling smoother than ever, while the Scrunchies and Heatless Curlers create heatless waves overnight; making next-day styling easier and faster than ever.

It’s her secret weapon for turning chaos into calm, whether she’s getting ready for a big presentation, a date night, or a weekend brunch.

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Read Next: Blowout Babe Energy: How to Style Your Sitting Pretty Halo for That Salon-Fresh Finish

4. The Root To Ready Set For An Inside-Out Transformation

Includes: Folicelle Hair Health Nutraceutical, The Halo
Perfect for: The woman ready to nurture her hair from root to tip.

The Root To Ready Set pairs Sitting Pretty’s most transformative duo: the Folicelle Hair Health Nutraceutical and The Halo to support stronger, fuller, and healthier-looking hair from the inside out.

Folicelle Hair Health Nutraceutical nourishes hair growth from the scalp with essential nutrients designed to improve strength, density, and shine over time. Paired with The Halo, it’s a reminder that while long-term growth takes patience, you can still enjoy instant confidence in the meantime.

Read Next: 5 Hacks To Take Your Hair From The Office To The Holiday Party

5. The Longevity Kit For The Haircare Minimalist

Includes: Ivory Garment Bag, Shampoo and Conditioner, Detangler Comb
Perfect for: The woman who believes that quality care is the foundation of great style.

The Longevity Kit is all about maintenance that feels indulgent. This trio keeps The Halo soft, smooth, and beautiful for longer, while encouraging gentle, mindful haircare rituals.

The Shampoo and Conditioner cleanse and hydrate without stripping, leaving hair refreshed and weightless. The Detangler Comb glides through strands effortlessly, preventing breakage. And the Ivory Garment Bag offers elegant protection, keeping The Halo pristine between wears.

Read Next: How To Keep Halo Extensions Party-Perfect This Season

6. Stocking Stuffers For The Finishing Touch

Includes: Tailcomb, Zero Bend Clips, Silk Hair Scrunchies, Pillowcase, or mix-and-match accessories.
Perfect for: Thoughtful add-ons and last-minute luxuries.

Small gifts can make the biggest difference.

Our stocking stuffers are simple gestures that transform everyday moments into routines of care. A new Tailcomb for sleek precision; a set of Zero Bend Clips that keep styling smooth; A silk Pillowcase that turns sleep into a beauty treatment; or a handful of Silk Hair Scrunchies that make even a messy bun feel a little more intentional.

Whether you’re curating a gift basket, shopping for Secret Santa, or just looking for a thoughtful finishing touch, these accessories make every day feel like a good hair day.

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Read Next: 5 Easy Vacation Hairstyles Using Halo Hair Extensions

7. Gift Cards For the Hard-to-Shop-For Friend

Perfect for: The loved one whose taste you trust, but whose shade you’re not so sure about.

When you know she’d love a Halo but aren’t sure of her shade, a Sitting Pretty Gift Card is the most thoughtful solution. It gives her the joy of choosing her perfect match, with help from our free Color Match Quiz and expert support team.

It’s practical but personal, and instantly delivered, so it’s perfect for last-minute shoppers or loved ones abroad.

Whether she’s just discovering the Halo or already part of the Sitting Pretty family, this gift guarantees she gets exactly what she wants.

Read Next: 10 Summer Hair Hacks You Need To Know

Need Help Choosing Gifts For Your Loved Ones?

However you celebrate this season, we hope these options bring a little more confidence, calm, and comfort to the women you love most, yourself included.

At the heart of it all, the best gifts are the ones that help your loved ones feel like themselves.

While the season may be filled with lists, gatherings, and glitter, may you also find moments of quiet gratitude and care. For your hair, your routine, and yourself.

Shop The Gift Guide and discover the art of giving (and receiving) beauty that lasts.

Already have your dream Halo? Check out some of these Halo-approved hairstyles:

Chicago Guide – JULIET ANGUS

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If you weren’t aware I’m a Chicagoan through and through! You can take the girl out of Chicago, but every year she always heads back. Being back in Chicago always makes me nostalgic for those home comforts and of course beyond excited to spend time with family (especially my mom!) The windy city has some amazing tourist hotspots, but sometimes you need the locals opinion on where to stay and eat and what to do while you’re in the city.

So here’s some of my top picks, even if I’m not a local anymore! xx Juliet

5-star hotel with a beautiful interior, with over 140 artists work curated around it sort of feels like you’re in an art museum. The city views and impeccable service is reason enough to book. But the Chuan Spa and sanctuary of wellness will make you never want to leave.

Address: 330 N Wabash Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, United States
Phone: +1 312-923-9988

The Peninsula Chicago, Chicago – Updated 2022 Prices

A top choice in the city, I’m sure you’ll see a celebrity. There’s so much to do in this hotel you don’t even need to leave, with four restaurants, a fitness center with Peleton bikes, a half Olympic length pool, and even a rooftop ice rink in the winter. It’s the perfect location as the Michigan Avenue shopping center is only half a block away. It’s also incredibly kid friendly and perfect for the whole family!

Address: 108 E Superior St, Chicago, IL 60611, United States
Phone:
+1 312-337-2888

Walton Street Capital takes over, looks to sell Waldorf Astoria Chicago  hotel | Crain's Chicago Business

The Waldorf will always be a staple hotel that I love from the Chanel inspired lobby to the Dreamdry blowout salon. The location is perfect for shopping by Rush and Oak and only five minutes away from the El train.

Address: 11 E Walton St, Chicago, IL 60611, United States
Phone:
+1 312-646-1300

The Hoxton, Chicago – Hotel Review | Condé Nast Traveler

Located in West Loop, it brings the art from the city into a place to stay – giving it a really cool vibe! There’s also an iconic rooftop pool that is a must-see. It’s still semi-new opening in 2019, and is more affordable compared to others.

Address: 200 N Green St, Chicago, IL 60607, United States
Phone: +1 312-761-1700

Nobu Hotel Chicago, Chicago – Updated 2022 Prices

You don’t have to be a sushi fanatic to appreciate this hotel. One of the newest spots in Chicago’s West Loop has become an instant icon! Located on what’s known as ‘Restaurant Row’ so you know you’ll be eating well.

Address: 155 N Peoria St, Chicago, IL 60607, United States
Phone: +1 312-779-8888

Pequod's Pizza – Restaurant Review | Condé Nast Traveler

Some people may prefer the traditional NYC slice but there’s something comforting about a Chicago deep dish. Here are some of my fave pizza spots:

Deep Dish – Large (serves 4) is $25.19
Thin Crust – Large (serves 3-4) is $17.79
*local recommendation is the ‘Malnati Chicago Classic’ – Large (serves 4) is $29.99

Some of the best deep dish pizza in my opinion, it’s all in the butter crust!!! If you’re craving Pesquods you can now get it shipped nationwide.
Pan Pizza – 14″ Large is $25.95
Thin Crust – 16″ Large is $22.95

Has an amazing large outdoor patio, it’s the perfect summer spot!
All pizzas are 12 inches, the basic Margarita is $14.00. But my personal fave has to be the Burrata be Kidding Me, with house made lemon vinaigrette and white truffle oil for $20.00

Right by the river, so you can sit and look at the view while you eat.
Classic Cheese is $17.00

If you’re craving a pizza night at home I recommend D’agastino’s – truly the best delivery! The sauce is the perfect amount of sweet.
Chicago-style Deep Dish – 14″ Large is $25.95
Famous Thin Crust – 16″ Large is $22.95

Why The Hype For Portillos? Here Are 10 Reasons Why Chicagoans Love It (and  You Will Too!)

If you have a craving for a classic Chicago dog Portillo’s has some of the best. It’s a must-try! If you’re not the biggest fan of hot dogs there’s loads of options to choose from.

The food and aesthetic of this restaurant are amazing – think: hunting lodge meets the game Clue. It’s also a go to spot for the City’s elite!

Address: 1000 W Armitage Ave, Chicago, IL 60614, United States
HOURS:
Monday-Thursday 4:30-10:30pm; Friday 12-11pm; Saturday 10:30am-11pm; Sunday 10am-10:30pm

One of the best hidden secrets in Chiacgo has to be this Japanese restaurant, it’s a little on the pricier side but 100% worth it! Although it’s a secret to the masses it’s still hard to get a reservation so book in advance, aim for 5:00-6:00pm to get your own little room/booth!

Address: 2557 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60622, United States
HOURS:
Wednesday-Thursday 5-10pm; Saturday 4:30-11:30pm; Closed Sunday-Tuesday

Maple & Ash — Chicago, USA | Wallpaper*

Incredible food with an even better dining experience. One of the best things on the menu has to be the fire-roasted seafood tower!
If you’re feeling adventurous or indecisive, there’s also a “I don’t give a f*@k” option, where they pick something for you.

Address: 8 W Maple St, Chicago, IL 60610, United States
HOURS:
All week 5:00pm-10pm; Sunday Brunch 11:00am-2pm

Bavette's Steakhouse & Bar — Restaurant Review | Condé Nast Traveler

One of the best spots in the city! No matter what you order you’ll be happy – from the iconic steaks to the salmon to the pot pie and caesar salad. You’ll go back time and time again to try the whole menu! It’s popular, so definitely book in advance.

Address: 218 W Kinzie St, Chicago, IL 60654, United States
HOURS:
Monday-Thursday 4-10:30pm; Friday-Saturday 3-11pm; Sunday 3-10:30pm

Whether it’s to catch a glimpse of a celeb owner or Chicago royalty, to eat (seafood) with a river view or looking for a fun-filled night with good food, these three RPM restaurants are a can’t miss option!

RPM Seafood Address: 317 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60654, United States
HOURS:
Monday-Wednesday 4-10pm; Thursday-Sunday 12-10pm

RPM Steak Address: 66 Kinzie St, Chicago, IL 60654, United States
HOURS: Monday-Wednesday 4-9:30pm; Thursday-Friday 4-10:30pm; Saturday 3-10:30pm; Sunday 3-9:30pm

RPM Italian Address: 52 W Illinois St, Chicago, IL 60654, United States
HOURS:
Sunday-Thursday 4-9:30pm; Friday 4-10:30pm; Saturday 3-10:30pm

Au Cheval Cheeseburger Is One of America's Best

Brenden Sodokoff’s famous cheeseburgers is totally worth the hype! These burgers are insanely delicious!

Address: 33 Cortlandt Alley, New York, NY 10013, United States
HOURS:
Monday-Thursday 11am-10:15pm; Friday 11am-11:15pm; Saturday 10am-11:15pm; Sunday 10am-10:15pm

Choose Chicago Introduces AI Tool Named After Beloved City Attraction

THINGS TO DO

  • Be a true tourist and go see the Bean – it’s iconic!
  • Maggie Daley Park – Popular throughout all seasons, from skating the ribbon in the winter to playing mini golf in the summer. There’s also an incredible playground that rivals amusement parks!
  • Riverwalk – see dock boats along the way and why not walk towards city winery!
  • Second City comedy shows
  • Get the Water Taxi to China Town for dinner (this is one of my fave things to do in the summer when I’m back!)
  • Sofar Sounds – an intimate, candlelit, byob secret concerts of local artists. You don’t know the location or who’s performing until the day of, it’s perfect for a date night or last minute plans!
  • Visit the MCA Museum of Contemporary art. Tip: every Tuesday Illinois residents get free admission!
  • Spend some time on the water – rent a kayak, do some paddle board yoga, or rent an electric boat from Chicago Electric Boat Company.
  • Of course if you’re a big music fan (like me) you’ll know about all the music festivals. For more mainstream music Lollafor house music there’s Arc,or if you’re more into EDM you can go to Volleywood (a 2 day festival on the beach).
  • Visit one of Chicago’s MLB stadiums (easily accessed via the El train). Spend a day at the Southside’s Guaranteed Rate Field to root on the White Sox’s or the iconic Wrigley Field to support the Cubs. Top tip: here’s you’re chance at trying the Windy City’s best hot dog!

How To Relieve Dry Skin on Your Face Overnight

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Does your skin feel dry, tight, or itchy? If so, you’re not alone. More than half of the adult population struggles with dry skin, and that percentage only increases with age.

This makes relieving dry skin a top priority in your skincare routine.

Stick around to learn what skincare ingredients to use, which ones to avoid, and how to ease dry skin on your face with Juice Beauty.

What Is Dry Skin?

Your skin is designed to be oily. Not excess oil, but the organ depends on a certain amount of health oils, fats, and lipids to stay nourished and perform its job. When skin does contain enough of these good oils, it becomes dry.

Dry skin is a common skin concern that affects almost everyone at some point or another. However, it’s also a skin type. Different from just the occasional dry hands or chapped lips, dry skin types struggle with dryness constantly.

Symptoms of dry skin include:

  • Patches of rough, flaky, or scaly skin
  • Skin redness
  • Itchiness, ranging from mild to severe
  • Skin that feels stretched to tight
  • Cracked skin, sometimes to the point of bleeding
  • Thinning skin
  • Discolored skin that may appear gray, white, or even black

What Causes Dry Skin?

A lot of people know what dry skin is (they may even have it themselves), but they have no clue what actually causes the skin condition. Especially if you’re looking to relieve your own dryness, it’s helpful to know what’s causing the tight, irritated skin so that you can best soothe it.

There are several factors that can contribute to dry skin. Let’s take a look at the most common ones.

Natural Aging

Your skin is already equipped with its own oil-making system. Sebaceous glands in the middle layer of your skin produce about 8 milligrams of sebum for every 10 centimeters of skin every day, which is more than enough to lubricate the skin barrier and lock in your body’s natural moisture.

However, this number is only an average. Not all skin can produce enough sebum on its own.

As you age, your body’s endocrine system starts to slow down — and the androgen hormone that stimulates sebum production does, too. Without this hormone to signal your sebaceous glands to kick into gear, your skin can start to dry out, triggering symptoms of dry skin.

Cold, Dry Air

The environment has a huge impact on your skin. The temperature humidity level of the air around you can determine how nourished or dry your skin feels. Generally speaking, cold and dry climates are the worst for your skin, and can contribute to irritation and flaking on your facial skin.

Dry air is dangerous because it can steal moisture from you. Your skin is always secreting small amounts of water through a biological process called transepidermal water loss (TEWL).

While some of this loss is controlled by your skin, it’s heavily influenced by environmental factors. When the air around is drier than your skin, TEWL rates spike, leaving you with not enough water to keep your skin hydrated.

Hot, Dry Air

Cold air isn’t the only threat to your skin. Sometimes, hot air can be just as dangerous.

Typically, warm air contains a high concentration of water vapor, making it nourishing for your skin. However, the hot air pushed out by heating units — like the furnaces and fireplaces you might encounter in the winter — has an extremely low humidity because it originated as cold air from outside.

Increasing the air’s temperature doesn’t raise it’s humidity. In fact, it can lower it. So while this hot air can feel good on your skin in the moment, in the long run, it is one of the biggest contributers to dry skin.

Overexfoliation

If you have oily skin, exfoliators are your best friend. These scrubbing agents are perfect at clearing out all of the excess oil produced by the skin. However, for skin types that struggle to produce enough oil on their own, these same ingredients can be your worst nightmare.

Dry skin types need to be careful when it comes to exfoliation. While a little but of scrubbing power can help clear away dead skin cells that are contributing to rough patches, too much can rub raw the already-sensitive skin.

Even normal skin types should be careful with overexfoliation, as removing too much oil can leave the skin feeling dry and undernourished as a side effect.

Harsh Soaps and Detergents

Certain face cleansers, body washes, and even hand soaps are formulated with harsh chemicals that can strip your skin’s moisture and irritate your skin. These products are often designed with good intentions: their goal is to absorb excess oil that can clog your pores and cause breakouts.

However, they can’t always distinguish the good oils from the bad. Ingredients like sulfates and colored dyes suck the natural oils from your skin, leaving behind a dry and itchy surface.

Other skincare ingredients to avoid using on dry skin include:

  • Salicylic acid
  • Glycolic acid
  • High concentrations of retinol
  • Alcohol-based formulas
  • Fragrances and perfumes

3 Ingredients To Soothe Dry Skin

While staying away from dehydrating agents is helpful, soothing your skin is about much more than avoiding the wrong ingredients. To truly relieve your dry skin, you need to nourish it with the right ones.

Here are three hydrating ingredients that can calm and correct your dry skin when used in skincare products.

1. Hyaluronic Acid

Hyaluronic acid is a powerful natural acid that lubricates your eyes, joints, and skin. It’s what chemists call a humectant — a chemical substance that can pull water from its surroundings and hold onto it. In fact, humectants can hold up to 1,000 times their weight in water.

This quality makes hyaluronic acid one of the most powerful skin hydrators available. That’s why we’ve incorporated it into our STEM CELLULAR® SuperGrape Youth Renew Serum.

Our SuperGrape Serum is made to revive tired-looking skin for a younger, more supple complexion. In addition to hyaluronic acid, this serum is also made with prickly pear juice and rare Sagrantino super grapes grown at Juice Beauty’s own innovation farm.

These ingredients combined are why 100% of clinical trial participants said their skin improved each day when using this product.

2. Niacinamide

Niacinamide is a type of vitamin B (B3, to be exact) that supports your skin health. This ingredient is multi-purpose, meaning it can be used to treat a variety of skin conditions — one of which being dry skin.

Vitamin B, and thus niacinamide, is a water-soluble vitamin, which makes it a powerful hydrating agent. It also happens to be a humectant, just like hyaluronic acid. Niacinamide’s ability to draw in moisture and support your skin is why we’ve included it in our PREBIOTIX™ C-Boost72 Whipped Cream.

This cloud-like face cream drenches your skin in moisture that sets in immediately after use. In clinical trials, participants reported up to 72 hours of powerful hydrating and a visibly instant glow after just one use.

3. Ceramides

Ceramides are a type of lipid that is found naturally in skin cells but is also added to many popular skincare ingredients. They’re so popular because of their role in supporting your skin barrier.

Ceramides make up over 50% of your skin barrier, meaning they are almost singularly responsible for filtering what substances enter and exit your body through the surface of your skin. This means they control how much water you lose. For this reason, we’ve used ceramides to power our STEM CELLULAR® Anti-Wrinkle Overnight Cream.

Our overnight moisturizing cream has intense hydrating properties, making it ideal for dry skin types. In fact, 91% of clinical trial participants noticed increased moisture overnight when using this cream, as well as softer and more supple skin.

Relieving Your Dry Skin Overnight

If it’s not already obvious, let us just state it for the record: the best way to relieve your dry, flaky skin is by soothing it with nourishing and hydrating ingredients.

While morning skincare is important, your nighttime routine is perfectly timed to target skin dryness and dry patches.

Your skin undergoes a lot of biological processes while you sleep: skin cells repair themselves, oils bloom onto your skin, and water seeps from your skin barrier. This makes dry skin types especially vulnerable at night.

By layering up on nourishing skincare before you go to bed, you fuel your skin with all the ingredients it needs to cure dry on your face skin overnight.

Sources:

Lifetime prevalence and associated factors of itch with skin conditions: atopic dermatitis, psoriasis and dry skin in individuals aged > 50 years – Clinical and Experimental Dermatology | Oxford Academic

Dry skin: Diagnosis and treatment | American Academy of Dermatology Association

Estimation of sebum production rates in man by measurement of the squalene content of skin biopsies | National Library of Medicine

Age-related changes in sebaceous gland activity | National Library of Medicine

Transepidermal water loss (TEWL): Environment and pollution—A systematic review | National Library of Medicine

How to safely exfoliate at home | American Academy of Dermatology Association

What to Know About Sulfate | WedMD

Humectant – an overview | Science Direct

Benefits of Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) | Cleveland Clinic

What Do Ceramides Do for Your Skin? | Cleveland Clinic