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Street Talk: Make-Up –Episode Ten Skin Type: Combination with Large Pores

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Street Talk: Make-Up –Episode Ten Skin Type: Combination with Large Pores

In this episode of Street Talk: Make-Upwe meet Sida skincare-savvy consumer with combination skin and visible pores — a concern shared by millions, particularly as they age. Sid’s routine is built around balancing hydration and oil controlwith clear distinctions between everyday wear and night-out glam. Her candid approach offers insights into how consumers adapt routines by season, occasion, and skin needs.

Skincare Routine: Seasonally Adaptive and Texture-Driven

Sid’s base routine is grounded in skin prep tailored to the weather. In summer, her focus is pore care, using:

  • Benefit POREfessional products to minimize the appearance of large pores
  • Cold water therapy to tighten and refresh skin
  • Lighter layers to avoid clogging and overheating

In cooler months or for low-maintenance days (such as at her doggy daycare job), Sid keeps it minimal — often just washing and applying SPF.

Make-Up Strategy: Glow Over Glam

When Sid is heading out, she opts for a sheer, radiant finish designed to smooth and hydrate without caking:

  • Foundation: Uses a Charlotte Tilbury balm base for a “youthful glow”
  • Powder: A sheer, light-reflective powder from Hourglass for radiance without weight
  • Concealer: Applied sparingly to avoid emphasizing fine lines
  • Eyeshadow: Enjoys expressive eye looks with Charlotte Tilbury and Urban Decay palettes
  • Mascara: Favors fiber-based mascaras like Wow and Charlotte Tilbury to avoid smudging
  • Lips: Skips traditional lipstick in favor of moisturizing lip balms or oils to maintain comfort and hydration

Her approach highlights a key consumer mindset: hydration and lightness over coverageespecially as skin matures.

Consumer Behavior: Skincare, Not Algorithms

Sid prefers in-store shopping — often relying on her sister to help match shades. She does not engage with virtual try-on tools or app-based recommendations, stating plainly:

“If I get the wrong color, I’ll just use bronzer to fix it.”

She also believes the era of tutorials is fading, favoring brand websites and product visuals over influencer-led demos. “People are educated now,” she adds.

Innovation Wishlist: Longevity Without the Layers

Sid’s biggest ask from beauty brands? A dewy, sheer beauty balm designed for aging skin that:

  • Moisturizes deeply
  • Blurs pores and fine lines
  • Lasts longer than four hours
  • Delivers youthful glow without cling or cakiness

Watch Episode Ten to explore how Sid’s experience with combination skin and enlarged pores reflects the reality of consumers seeking comfort, confidence, and flexibility in their beauty routines — and what this means for brands navigating the evolving complexion category.

5 Tips to Maximize Your Skincare Supplement Routine

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5 Tips to Maximize Your Skincare Supplement Routine

Are you ready to achieve your skin goals this year? It’s the new year so what better time to kickstart your supplement regimen than now? With increased focus on fitness, saving money and other resolutions, skincare routines can be an afterthought. If you only treat the outside of the skin with topical skincare and treatments, you’re only doing 50% of the job. By feeding the skin from the inside, you are nourishing the skin over the entire body and achieving 100% skincare. Our skin researchers have you covered with their five tips to maximize results from a skincare supplement routine to help you achieve your skin goals this year.

skin accumax results

1. Consistency

Consistency is key to achieve the results you desire. Just like exercise, the more you do, the better results you see. It’s important not to give up and be patient. You may need to take your skireally supplements between 8 -12 weeks before starting to see your results. Although you may start to see results within the first 10-14 days. Missing your daily dose regularly is where your results can fall behind. Implementing more of our tips below will help make taking supplements part of your routine just like cleansing, toningand moisturizing.

2. Habit Stacking

Habit stacking is when you pair a new habit to an existing habit you already do every day. It’s an effective way of sticking to a routine and remembering to do it. Take your supplements with lunch or an evening meal and consider them as part of a nutritious and healthy meal. Research shows that taking fat soluble vitamins (A, D E) are better absorbed when taking with a main meal that contains fats or oils.

3. Phone Reminder

Another tip to remember to take your skincare supplements, is set a reminder on your phone to ensure you never forget to take your daily dose.

4. Location, Location, Location

Put your skincare supplements where you can see them. Keep them on your desk at work and take them with lunch. Or when at home keep them visible on the kitchen counter, don’t hide them in a drawer.

5. Consider Taking a Probiotic

Skin Youth Biome helps support the gut-skin connection and targets aging skin for a youthful complexion. One capsule per day helps balance the gut and aids in maximum absorption of the nutrients from your food and supplements. There is no need to refrigerate Skin Youth Biome. Our product is produced in a very specific way that enables it to be stored on the shelf, in your bag or on your desk at work. Bonus benefits of this supplement include supports the skin’s natural barrier, helps to reduce fine lines, supports collagen formation and immunity.

Kickstart your skincare supplement routine today by finding the right supplement for your skin. Take the Skincare Supplement Quiz now!

How to Protect Your Hair from Damage All Year Round

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How to Protect Your Hair from Damage All Year Round

Key Takeaways

  • Adjust your routine each season to prevent damage from heat, humidity, and cold air.
  • Hydrate your hair, especially in dry seasons, with deep conditioning treatments to maintain strength and elasticity.
  • Use clarifying shampoos in summer and moisture masks in winter to address specific seasonal hair needs.
  • Use bond-building treatments like OLAPLEX to reduce breakage from styling and chemical processes.
  • Always apply a heat protectant before using styling tools to avoid dryness and split ends.

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How to Protect Your Hair from Damage All Year Long

As the seasons change, so do your hair’s needs. Learn about hair maintenance in winter, anti-humidity hair products for summer, and everything in between. Protect your hair from damage year-round and learn how to manage it during each season with help from OLAPLEX® haircare products.

Seasonal Haircare Tips: From Spring to Winter

Each season brings its own set of challenges when it comes to maintaining healthy hair. Here are specific seasonal tips to keep your hair protected all year long:

Spring

In spring, focus on transitioning to hair care for warmer weather and prepping your hair against summer hair damage. Consistent moisturizing, bond building, and styling maintenance can set you up for healthy, strong hair during the summer months.

  • Your scalp produces more oil during the winter months to protect your hair against a dry environment, and as the seasons change, it takes your body some time to adjust to this transition. As winter turns to spring, consider a dry shampoo like N°.4D Clean Volume Detox Dry Shampoo to help absorb the oils on your scalp. The increased humidity during springtime can mean that you need to pay more attention to the overall health of your scalp. Choosing a conditioner like N°.5 Bond Maintenance® Conditioner can help reduce breakage while strengthening and nourishing hair.
  • Strengthen your hair by using Nº.0 Intensive Bond Building Treatment and Nº.3 Hair Perfector® once a week. These two products, when used together, are clinically proven to repair and reverse damage done to your hair.

Summer

Fun in the sun, beachy waves (or other summer hair trends), and cannonballs into the pool—while summer is a time to kick back and relax, it’s also the most damaging season for hair.

We sweat more during the summer. This, combined with chlorine from pools, summer styling products, and wearing hats, creates the perfect storm for buildup on the scalp, clogged follicles, and hair breakage without proper care for your hair. Here’s what we recommend:

  • Get rid of buildup by shampooing with N°.4C Bond Maintenance® Shampoo. This clarifying shampoo removes buildup and restores vibrant-looking hair.
  • Use OLAPLEX Nough.5 Leave-In Moisture Leave-In Conditioner to protect hair today from damage done tomorrow. This leave-in helps protect against future damage and delivers up to 88% split-end sealing after one use. Start by applying one pump to clean, damp hair and follow up with any styling products.
  • If you have wavy or curly hair, rock your texture pattern with a styling product like OLAPLEX Nough.10 Bond Shaper® Curl Defining Gel. This bond-building, curl-defining gel protects against heat, controls frizz, provides all-day flexible hold, and is non-sticky and non-flaking—the perfect styling gel to get you through the dog days.
  • Hot summer days call for a trip to the beach. And while you might put sunscreen on your face, your hair can take a beating from the sun too! Protecting your hair is all about prevention. OLAPLEX Nough.7 Bonding Oil™ can help protect your hair against heat up to 450ºF. Apply it to your hair before and during the day to continually protect from breakage.

Fall

Another transition season, fall is the time to help your hair recover from any summer damage and prep for cooler temps. It is less humid, so hair doesn’t hold as much water and is more prone to dryness, breakage, frizz, and static. Cut back on anti-humidity hair products and consider reducing heat styling and providing your hair with the TLC it needs to cope with the environmental changes. Focus on moisturizing to maintain elasticity and strength.

  • The cooler temperatures can rob your hair of some of its natural moisture. Combat frizz and dryness and treat your hair with a leave-in conditioner for additional moisture and protection.
  • Decreased humidity can leave your hair looking a little flat. The beachy curls and volume you experienced during the summer are long gone. Add a little volume with N º.4D Dry Shampoo and learn how this product uses innovative ingredients to leave your hair looking and feeling clean, while adding weightless body.
  • All the salt sprays, sunscreens, and other products you used during the summer have likely built up on your scalp, leaving residue that contributes to scalp issues. It’s important to take care of your scalp by using a gentle clarifying shampoo like N º.4C that cleanses without stripping or drying.

Winter

Hair maintenance in winter may feel like a lot of extra work, but preventative measures during the year will set you up for success. Due to the lack of moisture in the air during the winter months, your hair can become dry and prone to static. Try these tips to help your scalp stay feeling healthy and your hair stay strong and hydrated all winter long.

  • Winter hair care is all about hydration. A weekly moisture mask like the Weightless Nourishing Mask or Rich Hydration Mask can make a huge difference when it comes to dry, damaged hair. You might also consider running a humidifier in your home to combat the drying effects of having the heat on.
  • Hot water strips the natural oils from your scalp and hair, making it more vulnerable to breaking. Avoid styling with heat, if possible, but if you can’t help it, make sure to protect your hair beforehand with OLAPLEX Nº.7 Bonding Oil™.

Year-Round Hair Protection Tips

While you may spend a little more time thinking about hair maintenance during winter, there are a few tips that can help your hair no matter the season or how humid it is outside:

Wash Less Often

Protect your hair’s integrity with minimal washing. Washing your hair too often can lead to scalp irritation from dryness. We recommend holding off on shampooing daily, and when you do shampoo, use Nº.4Fine Shampoo to help cleanse, hydrate, and nourish hair and follow with Nº.5Fine Conditioner. You can also use Nº.4D in-between washes to absorb oils on the scalp without any white residue.

Use Heat Protection Before Styling

Before you pull out the hairdryer, make sure your hair is protected against heat. Styling tools can weaken hair strands, leading to dryness, split ends, and breakage. Apply heat-protection hair oil prior to styling. OLAPLEX Nº.7 Bonding Oil™ is a highly-concentrated, weightless reparative styling oil that increases shine, softness, and maintains color vibrancy—all while providing heat protection up to 450°F. Or, use a serum like Nº.9 Bond Protector Nourishing Hair Serum to shield hair from heat damage up to 450°F and reduce tangles and static.

Now that you know about protecting and managing your hair all year long, find your personalized haircare routine.

Sources

  1. https://www.imagesofprinceton.com/blog/seasonal-hair-care-tips-maintain-healthy-hair-all-year-long.html
  2. https://www.thecut.com/article/ask-a-beauty-editor-oily-scalp-causes-and-solutions.html
  3. https://goldielocks.com/blogs/news/fall-hair-care-tips
  4. https://www.hairclub.com/blog/10-best-winter-hair-care-tips/
  5. https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/healthy-scalp

BEST VITAMINS FOR OPTIMAL SKIN HEALTH ~ THE MALE GROOMING REVIEW

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BEST VITAMINS FOR OPTIMAL SKIN HEALTH ~ THE MALE GROOMING REVIEW

Maintaining healthy skin involves a combination of good nutrition, hydration, sun protection, and a well-rounded skincare routine. Certain vitamins play a key role in promoting optimal skin health. Here are the most important vitamins to focus on for vibrant, youthful-looking skin:

1. Vitamin C

  • Benefits: Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps protect the skin from oxidative stress caused by environmental factors like pollution and UV exposure. It also plays a crucial role in collagen production, which keeps the skin firm and youthful.
  • Sources: Citrus fruits (oranges, lemons), strawberries, bell peppers, spinach, and broccoli.
  • Topical Use: Vitamin C serums can help brighten the skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

2. Vitamin E

  • Benefits: Another antioxidant, Vitamin E helps protect skin cells from free radicals and UV damage. It is also moisturizing and helps maintain the skin barrier, reducing dryness and inflammation.
  • Sources: Nuts (almonds, sunflower seeds), spinach, and avocados.
  • Topical Use: Often found in creams and serums for soothing, hydrating effects.

3. Vitamin A (Retinol)

  • Benefits: Vitamin A is essential for skin cell regeneration and repair. It helps reduce acne, smooth wrinkles, and improve skin texture. Retinol, a derivative of Vitamin A, is commonly used to treat aging skin and acne.
  • Sources: Carrots, sweet potatoes, spinach, and other leafy greens.
  • Topical Use: Retinoids (vitamin A derivatives) are often used in anti-aging skincare routines to enhance collagen production and promote skin renewal.

4. Vitamin D

  • Benefits: Vitamin D plays a role in skin cell growth and repair, and can help with inflammatory skin conditions such as psoriasis. It’s also important for maintaining overall skin health.
  • Sources: Sunlight exposure, fortified foods (milk, cereals), and fatty fish (salmon, tuna).
  • Topical Use: Vitamin D creams are sometimes used to treat psoriasis and other skin conditions.

5. Vitamin K

  • Benefits: Vitamin K is crucial for wound healing and may help reduce skin issues such as stretch marks, dark spots, and under-eye circles.
  • Sources: Leafy greens (kale, spinach), broccoli, and Brussels sprouts.
  • Topical Use: It’s used in creams to help reduce bruising, scars, and dark circles.

6. B Vitamins (especially B3, B5, and B7)

  • Vitamin B3 (Niacinamide): Reduces inflammation, boosts hydration, and minimizes fine lines. It’s often used to treat acne and rosacea.
  • Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid): Moisturizes and heals the skin, promoting softness and elasticity.
  • Vitamin B7 (Biotin): Essential for overall skin, hair, and nail health.
  • Sources: Meat, eggs, nuts, seeds, and whole grains.
  • Topical Use: Niacinamide is commonly found in serums and moisturizers for brightening and anti-aging effects.

7. Omega-3 Fatty Acids

  • Benefits: Though not a vitamin, omega-3 fatty acids are essential for maintaining skin’s moisture barrier and reducing inflammation, which can help conditions like acne and eczema.
  • Sources: Fatty fish (salmon, mackerel), flaxseeds, chia seeds, and walnuts.

8. Zinc

  • Benefits: Zinc helps with the healing of skin lesions, reducing inflammation, and protecting against UV damage. It is also helpful in treating acne.
  • Sources: Meat, shellfish, legumes, seeds, and nuts.

General Tips:

  • Sun Protection: While vitamins help, using sunscreen daily is crucial to prevent UV damage and skin aging.
  • Balanced Diet: Eating a variety of fruits, vegetables, nuts, and healthy fats ensures you get a wide range of vitamins for your skin.
  • Hydration: Drinking plenty of water also aids in maintaining skin health.

Incorporating these vitamins both through diet and topical treatments can help maintain skin’s health, improve complexion, and slow down signs of aging.

image of before and after hair restoration


5 Signs You’re a ‘Serial Monogamist,’ According to Relationship Therapists

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5 Signs You’re a ‘Serial Monogamist,’ According to Relationship Therapists

As effortless or even empowering as being single can look from the outside, plenty of others struggle to embrace it at all. Preferring to be partnered up is deeply human. But what’s different is slipping into a constant loop of back-to-back relationships or situationships simply because being alone (or not having someone to talk to or flirt with) feels intolerable.

This is usually what people mean when they talk about a “serial monogamist” or “serial dater.” While there’s no “right” amount of days, weeks, or months you’re supposed to wait to start dating again after a breakup, giving yourself even a little room to process things on your own is important, Valeriya Bauer, MA, LMFT, a Los Angeles-based psychotherapist, tells SELF. That distraction-free space helps you tune into your wants and needs, rebuild a sense of independence, and actually reflect on what went wrong in your past relationships so you’re not carrying old baggage into the next. Without that pause, however, Bauer says it’s easy to fall into unhealthy patterns or hastily choose partners for the wrong reasons.

Understandably, “serial monogamist” isn’t a label most people are eager to claim—which is why, as Bauer points out, “some people who prefer to be in relationships non-stop may be hesitant to call themselves this due to its gravity.” But being honest with yourself—and why you feel so compelled to constantly swipe, text, or chase—can be the first step toward breaking the cycle and learning how to be fulfilled on your own.

Here are the biggest red flags that you might be a “serial monogamist,” according to three relationship therapists.

1. You date to distract yourself.

With serial dating, meeting new people becomes less about finding The One or even just having fun. Instead, it turns into an unhealthy escape, Bauer says—whether you’re avoiding post-breakup grief, work stress, or friendship drama. If every stressful moment sends you back to the apps, or even to a “failed talking stage,” you’re likely using romance as a buffer, not a genuine choice.

2. You rush in—then get bored just as fast.

At first, you love the excitement of someone new—the butterflies, the tension, the thrill of getting a cute stranger’s entire personality. But as soon as that early rush wears off, or things start getting serious, steady, and predictable, a serial dater often loses interest.

“They tend to move fast because it gives them that high,” Jennifer Teplin, LCSW, founder and clinical director of Manhattan Wellness, tells SELF. The intensity of the initial stages can feel new, fun, and distracting—especially compared to the vulnerability and often-gritty emotional work required in a real relationship. So it’s common for serial monogamists to “come in hot,” Teplin says, almost in a love-bomby way. “They might even be a little intense,” rushing into a connection or making things “exclusive” because they’re eager not to be alone for too long. But because they’re after that early buzz, the spark tends to fizzle quickly (and the cycle of serial dating starts all over again).

3. You’ve never had a moment without texting, chasing, or dating someone.

Not having anyone to message, flirt with, or sleep next to isn’t just lonely for a serial monogamist—it almost feels unbearable. The quiet moments that most people can tolerate become abnormally anxiety-provoking or restless, to the point where finding any person to fill that void becomes a top priority.

How to Ensure Your Makeup Looks Great in Photos, Video, or in Person

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How to Ensure Your Makeup Looks Great in Photos, Video, or in Person

Cameras have come a long way for film and television, but even cell phone cameras can take images and video in 4K! It’s no wonder many people feel the need to use filters, but with the proper lighting, you won’t need it.

That’s where Ilios comes in. The Founders (who are also world-class experts in makeup artistry, photography, and lighting) wanted to create lighting that mimicked the beautiful natural window-lighting we all crave on those beautiful sunny days. It’s perfectly diffused, softened by the window glass, and perfect for makeup application and photography.

Their Beauty Ring (and their newest products) offers the most accurate daylight lighting in portable ring light, but it goes beyond that! It also offers a warmer setting and a “blend” setting to help adjust the lighting in any environment you’re in, and it offers five brightness levels to ensure you’re applying makeup in the same type of lighting environment where you’ll be filming, photographed, or in for an event.

Why It’s important to use the proper lighting level and temperature while doing makeup

Imagine you apply makeup with a standard light with only one temperature (let’s say, cool), but you’re filming video or being photographed in a candlelit room – the makeup that was so skillfully applied will look completely different. With the Ilios Beauty Ring and its lighting options, you can set the light to be the same lighting and intensity you’ll be in during the event while being filmed or photographed, or even while going live, to ensure you look your best!

All About the Curly Girl Method AKA Plopping – OLAPLEX. Inc.

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All About the Curly Girl Method AKA Plopping – OLAPLEX. Inc.

Key Takeaways

  • Plopping, also known as the Curly Girl Method, is a way to dry your hair without heat damage.
  • For the Curly Girl Method, you’ll use a microfiber towel, t-shirt, or pillowcase to dry your hair.
  • This method helps enhance your curl pattern, reduce frizz, and lock in moisture.
  • Create a comprehensive routine to manage your curls and waves, using hair-protecting shampoos and conditioners, long-lasting stylers, and moisturizing masks.

Jump to

All About the Curly Girl Method AKA Plopping

Are you looking for new ways to dry your curly hair without heat damage? If so, the Curly Girl Method (also known as plopping) may be right for you. Learn more about this heatless drying technique for curly hair and the best products for managing curly and wavy hair.

What Is the Curly Girl Method?

The Curly Girl Method is ideal for anyone with a curly or wavy hair texture. This hair-drying technique helps enhance your natural curl pattern, lock in moisture, and minimize damage. Plopping can also help minimize frizz. For the Curly Girl Method, you’ll use a cotton t-shirt, microfiber towel, or pillowcase to help dry your wet curls.

You might like this method more than towel-drying your hair. Towels are rough, and they can stretch out your curls and make them frizzy. The friction from your traditional bath towels can also damage your hair.

How to Try the Curly Girl Method

Wondering how to get back your natural curls or waves? Follow these steps to dry your hair without heat damage and enhance your curl pattern:

1. Wash Your Hair

The first step of hair plopping is to wash your hair. You might try a clarifying shampoo like OLAPLEX® Nº.4C Bond Maintenance® Clarifying Shampoo to reset your hair and remove product buildup. You’ll love this clarifying shampoo because it provides a surface level deep cleanse without drying your hair out, and it’s great for all hair types. Finish with a moisturizing and detangling conditioner like Nº.5 Bond Maintenance® Conditioner.

2. Add a Curl-Enhancing Product

The right styling products can take the Curly Girl Method to the next level. Once you’ve washed your hair, add a curl gel to prevent frizz and enhance your curls. If you’re looking for a non-sticky, non-flaking medium hold curl gel, style your hair with Nº.10 Bond Shaper Curl Defining Gel.

3. Dry Your Hair

Here’s the part where you plop your hair: Take your microfiber towel, t-shirt, or pillowcase and spread it on a flat surface. Next, bend over and plop your hair down on the fabric.

After plopping your hair, roll the t-shirt, towel, or pillowcase around your head like a turban so your hair is on top of your head. Your towel, t-shirt, or pillowcase will absorb the water from your hair. This technique layers your curls on top of your head so your curls stay in place while they dry.

How Long Should You Plop Your Hair?

The amount of time you’ll need to leave your hair wrapped will vary depending on many factors like your hair’s length, thickness, and porosity. It might take you a few tries to figure out how long to plop your unique hair. Some people only plop their hair for ten minutes, while others plop for an hour.

How Often Can You Plop Your Hair?

This technique will help you dry your hair faster without using heat, so you can plop your hair every time you wash it.

If your curls are looking great and you want to keep them that way without washing your hair, reach for Nº.4D Clean Volume Detox Dry Shampoo. This dry shampoo will refresh your hair and leave it looking clean without residue.

Does the Plopping Method Work on Any Hair Type?

Those with wavy hair or curly hair can use the Curly Girl Method to define their curl pattern, but if you have straight hair, this technique won’t make your hair curly. If you have straight hair and want heatless curls or waves, you can try braiding your hair, hair rollers, or headband curlers.

The Best Curl and Wave Products

If you’re wondering how to manage curly hair or waves, create a comprehensive Curly Girl routine with these products:

  • Nº.3 Hair Perfector®: This complete bond builder restores healthy appearance and hair texture and is clinically proven to repair and reverse damage. Use Nº.3 before shampooing and conditioning with Nº.4 and Nº.5 for the best results.
  • Nº.4 Bond Maintenance Shampoo and Nº.5 Bond Maintenance Conditioner: Together, Nº.4 and Nº.5 improve the manageability and softness of hair while preventing breakage and split ends—perfect for breakage-prone curly and wavy hair
  • Rich Hydration Mask: to lock in moisture for your curls and reduce frizz, all while repairing hair bonds and restoring strength, use the Rich Hydration Mask weekly.
  • Weightless Nourishing Mask: If you have fine hair curls, reach for the Weightless Nourishing Mask to create instant volume while sealing cuticles for up to five washes.
  • Nº.6 Bond Smoother®: A wonderful styling cream to add to your routine, Nº.6 has a nourishing formula that helps hair resist humidity and repairs all frizz-prone hair types without adding excess weight. Apply before using styling gels and oils.
  • Nº.9 Bond Protector Nourishing Hair Serum: As your first step in your styling routine, this hair serum provides up to 450°F heat protection, detangles, and controls frizz. Use Nº.9 on damp hair and follow with Nº.6.
  • Nº.10 Bond Shaper Curl Defining Gel: This curl styling product is a curlie’s best friend. Nº.10 has heat protection for worry-free diffusing and provides all-day flexible hold, all while increasing shine and relinking disulfide bonds for a more defined curl shape and structure. Use after Nº.9 and Nº.6 and before applying OLAPLEX Nº.7 Bonding Oil™.
  • OLAPLEX Nº.7 Bonding Oil™: For a big boost of shine and to lock in moisture, look to OLAPLEX Nº.7 Bonding Oil™. Use this hair oil after applying all stylers on either damp or dry hair.

Now that you know about plopping, you can dry your hair in a way that’s perfect for your curls. Explore more products for curl support to keep your hair hydrated and frizz-free.

Sources

  1. https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/beauty/hair/a39958236/curly-girl-method/
  2. https://www.cosmopolitan.com/style-beauty/beauty/a25400845/how-to-plop-curls/
  3. https://www.glamour.com/story/hair-plopping-with-shirt
  4. https://www.cosmopolitan.com/style-beauty/beauty/a40050002/heatless-hair-curlers-tiktok-review/

Pantone Cloud Dancer or WGSN Transformative Teal

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Pantone Cloud Dancer or WGSN Transformative Teal

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Pantone Cloud Dancer

Pantone, we need to talk about your terrible choice of Colour of the Year for 2026, Cloud Dancer, aka white.

Pantone Cloud Dancer or WGSN Transformative Teal

White can be a good neutral (for some of us, who it suits), and it’s fine for a bride at a wedding, as it makes her stand out from the sea of guests wearing actual colours. But it shouldn’t be the “colour of the year”.

White is a neutral, a backdrop, not the main event.

White isn’t practical; this is why it’s worn at weddings by the bride, who isn’t serving the food, feeding the kids, or cleaning the house (that day).  It’s way too easy to get dirty.

There was a good reason that Jennifer Lopez’s character “borrowed” a white Gucci suit from a customer’s closet in the movie Maid in Manhattan, because a white suit says, “I don’t get my hands dirty, and I have the money to have others clean up after me”.  Which is why the rich man she fell in love with (who wouldn’t have looked twice at a hotel maid) even noticed her in the first place.

White is “vanilla”, and when we describe something as “vanilla”, we mean it to be bland or boring.

  • White may be a fresh new page, but it can also make you feel like you have “blank page” syndrome.
  • White may be clean, but it can also be a symbol of whitewashing.
  • White may be the colour of a doctor’s coat, to indicate hygiene, but it also means sterile.

Sure, there will be a bunch of different whites and creams, and there is a version that won’t necessarily make you look tired or washed out, but it may not be a colour you should be wearing if it’s not related to your colouring (no matter what the fashion retailers tell you).  Sure, white goes with everything, but does it really spark joy?

There is absolutely an essential place for neutrals in your wardrobe, but these neutrals should be a reflection of your colouring, based on your hair, eye and skin colours, not dictated to you by the fashion industrial complex.  If you want my tips on choosing your best neutrals to build your wardrobe around, check out this post.

We don’t all need a white shirt, or a white anything, to be honest.   I quite like a white wall in my home so I can decorate with other colours without having to repaint my walls every time I want a change.  So why did Pantone select white?  It’s political.

Bright colours are more divisive, and you can’t sell as many of them, so producing products in white means you can sell more.  Back in the Victorian era, everything was coloured, wallpaper, furnishings, clothing, and even in the 1970s, there was a lot of colour in our homes as well as what we wore.  It was a time of optimism, fun and freedom.    Today, we are stressed out not only by the political climate, the recovery from a worldwide pandemic, and the pressures of work, but also by neutrals like white, grey, and beige, which make the brain feel “safe” and quiet, though also bored.   Manufacturers have learned that neutrals sell faster as they are the “safe” option; this is why there is so much black and beige, along with white, available in stores.  Bright things feel riskier.  Safe choices make bigger profits.

High anxiety also lowers colour tolerance.  Stressed brains prefer muted tones because we feel colour (see my Energy of Colour Masterclass to discover more about the real power of colour and how to use it with intention).  Strong colours increase emotional activity.  Sadly, the more we live in a neutral environment, the more tired we become inside.

Where is the spark, where is the optimism?  Where is the colour that brings us joy?  Colour shapes mood,  influencing how we feel.

So, rather than making white your preferred colour of 2026, why not opt for WGSN’s Colour of 2026 Transformative Teal, which I think is a much better option.

WGSN and Coloro Transformative Teal

WGSN Transformative teal

Teal is one of my favourite colours; it’s not only beautiful and calming, but also a universal colour (meaning there is a version of teal in every single colour palette). It also harmonises really well with so many different colours.  You can wear teal with red, pink, purple, blue, orange, yellow, brown, white, navy, black, and grey.    What’s not to love?  It’s super versatile.

Teal goes with so many colours including cobalt and other bluesWGSN (a leading fashion forecasting company) describes it as a resonating colour for a period of change and redirection, a fusion of blue and green that recognises the diversity of nature and an earth-first mindset, building resilience in the face of complex change. Teal comes in all sorts of shades from lighter to darker

Teal comes in both lighter and darker shades.

Teal works with so many other colours including fuchsia

Teal works excellently with fuchsia.

And guess what, Transformative Teal works with Cloud Dancer, you can wear them both together if you choose.

Teal with turquoise

And I love mixing it with turquoise, the universal blue.

So don’t make white your base; instead, start playing with teal, as it’s a colour with so many possibilities for increasing the number of outfits in your wardrobe.

Pantone Cloud Dancer or WGSN Transformative Teal - Colours of 2026

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7 Simple Self Care Practices to Boost Health and Happiness – Vegan Beauty Review | Vegan and Cruelty-Free Beauty, Fashion, Food, and Lifestyle : Vegan Beauty Review

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7 Simple Self Care Practices to Boost Health and Happiness – Vegan Beauty Review | Vegan and Cruelty-Free Beauty, Fashion, Food, and Lifestyle : Vegan Beauty Review

In a world that’s constantly on the go, carving out time for self-care might feel like trying to find a unicorn—rare and magical! But taking care of yourself isn’t just for pampered spa days or Instagram-worthy bubble baths. It’s the daily things that make a real difference in how you feel, both physically and mentally. Here are seven self-care practices that are easy to work into your life and guaranteed to bring a little more joy to your day!

1. Morning Mindfulness with a Cozy Twist

Who said mindfulness has to be all serious? Start your day by taking a few moments to just be. Whether it’s deep breathing, a short meditation, or staring out the window with your favorite warm beverage in hand, taking a minute to center yourself is a game changer.

2. Pamper Your Feet, They Deserve It!

Your feet take you everywhere, so why not give them the love they deserve? I start by wearing my orthotic sandals for women, because I’m 44, and my tootsies are happiest in my PowerStep babies. Find shoes that bring you the most comfort and joy. Also, treat yourself to a DIY foot massage or soak your feet in warm water with some essential oils. Afterward, slather on your favorite lotion and—yep, you guessed it—slide into your coziest house slippers. Your feet will thank you, and you’ll feel like you’re walking on clouds for the rest of the day!

3. Dance Like No One’s Watching (Because No One Is)

Exercise doesn’t have to mean dragging yourself to the gym! Move your body in ways that make you feel good. Blast your favorite playlist and have a spontaneous dance party in your living room. If you’re more of a yogi, Yin yoga is perfect for stretching and chilling out—come take one of my classes at West Coast Fitness! The key is to make movement fun so it feels less like a chore and more like a celebration of what your body can do!

4. Drink Water Like a Boss

You’ve probably heard it a million times: drink more water! But hydration doesn’t have to be boring. Get yourself a fancy water bottle or add fun infusions like lemon, mint, or cucumber. Sipping on something that looks and tastes refreshing can be oddly satisfying, and your skin (and mood) will thank you later.

5. Create an Evening Routine You Can’t Wait For

Imagine this: soft lighting, calming music, and that aaaah moment when you slide into your favorite fuzzy slippers after a long day. Make winding down at night feel like an event! Whether it’s reading, journaling, or soaking in the tub with a bath bomb that smells like heaven, having a consistent nighttime routine helps you de-stress and get a better night’s sleep. Don’t be surprised if you start looking forward to bedtime like it’s a mini vacation!

6. Eat Your Veggies (But Don’t Forget the Pizza)

We all know that what we eat affects how we feel. But instead of stressing about eating perfectly, focus on adding more whole, nourishing foods to your meals. Fresh fruits, crunchy veggies, and wholesome grains are the true MVPs for keeping you energized. And don’t forget—treating yourself to a pizza night (Amy’s vegan pizza all the way!) or your favorite dessert (shove all the Doe Donuts in mah face!) is just as important. Self-care is all about balance, and sometimes, happiness tastes like chocolate cake.

7. Unplug Like It’s 1995

Remember the days before smartphones? Sometimes, it’s good to pretend we’re back in the ’90s and disconnect from the digital world. Constant notifications can make your brain feel like a pinball machine. So, put your phone on “do not disturb,” curl up in those aforementioned cozy slippers, and enjoy a device-free moment. Whether you’re reading a book, talking to a friend, or just doing nothing (yes, that’s allowed!), you’ll feel more present and peaceful.

Final Thoughts

Self-care doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s about finding simple, joyful ways to nurture yourself every day. Whether you’re starting the morning with mindfulness (and slippers!), dancing your heart out, or pampering your feet, the key is to make self-care something you want to do, not something you feel you have to do.

So, slip on those slippers, sip your water, and dance like no one’s watching—because hellz yeah!

This is a sponsored post with Responsival. Opinions are 100% my own, and I only share products I genuinely love.

About Sunny (Sunny’s Profile)

Longtime vegan, hardcore compassionate beauty junkie, serious cake aficionado, and lover of all things floofy and sparkly! If there’s something in particular you’d like me to review, drop me a line at Sunny@VeganBeautyReview.com.
You can also find me on Facebook, Instagram, TwitterYouTube, and Google +.

Filed in: vegan lifestyle
Tags: orthotic sandals for women • PowerStep • self-care

Here’s Where Beauty Lovers Shop for Skin Care in Person

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Here’s Where Beauty Lovers Shop for Skin Care in Person

Online shopping may dominate the conversation, but when it comes to buying skin care in person, beauty enthusiasts still have their go-to destinations—and the numbers tell an interesting story. We asked 600+ NewBeauty readers* where they typically shop for skin care in person, and two names clearly lead the pack.

Sephora takes the top spot with 64 percent of respondents designating it their go-to spot for in-person shopping, while Ulta follows closely behind with 59 percent. Department stores still hold their ground with 31 percent, and Target isn’t far behind at 26 percent. Drugstores like CVS and Walgreens account for 19 percent of respondents, while specialty skin retailers and those who don’t purchase in person each accounted for 13 percent.

While prestige beauty retailers are still the go-to for most shoppers, convenience-driven options like Target and drugstores remain strong contenders, especially for quick grabs and budget-friendly buys.

When we asked readers where they’d be most likely to purchase specific products, the results got even more interesting. Sephora dominates moisturizers, with 44 percent of responses, while Ulta leads for cleansers at 34 percent. For serums, “Other” retailers—think department stores or brand boutiques—take the crown with 41 percent, suggesting that shoppers may prefer more personalized or luxury experiences for high-performance products. Face mists? Sephora wins again with 38 percent, reinforcing its reputation as the destination for trend-driven beauty.

The takeaway: While online shopping continues to grow, in-person beauty shopping is far from dead. Sephora and Ulta remain the heavyweights, but the data shows that shoppers are strategic, choosing different retailers for different categories. Whether it’s the allure of swatching in-store, the instant gratification of walking out with a bag, or the personalized advice from beauty experts, brick-and-mortar still matters.

*Source: BeautyEngine Advanced Research, 2025

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