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11 Best Makeup Mirrors With Lights 2025, Tried & Tested

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11 Best Makeup Mirrors With Lights 2025, Tried & Tested

Your makeup mirror FAQs, answered:

Are mirrors with lights good for doing makeup?

Yes — because you can’t always guarantee that you’ll be working with the perfect natural lighting conditions when applying your makeup. “Good lighting allows you to see your face clearly, and also ensures true colour representation of your products,” explains Saffron Hughes, make-up artist at FalseEyelashes.co.uk. “This is essential for flawless makeup — and particularly helps make sure that your base looks natural and even.”

What magnification mirror is best for doing makeup?

Your mirror doesn’t have to come with any kind of magnification — but most of the more impressive models do. “The ideal magnification for a lighted makeup mirror depends on your needs — however, 5x to 8x is the sweet spot for most makeup tasks,” Hughes explains.

“Providing a clear, close-up view of your whole face, using a 5x mirror makes it easier to apply foundation and contour your face,” she adds. “However, an 8x mirror might be better-suited to anyone who wears glasses — and also works well for more intricate tasks, like tweezing your eyebrows.”

Your best bet? Saffron recommends looking out for a mirror with a dual or tri-sided design, for maximum flexibility.

What to look for when shopping for the best makeup mirror:

There’s no shortage of options if you’re looking to find the best makeup mirror. There are mirrors with built-in phone chargers and even ones that’ll tell you the weather (yes, really). To make the right choice for your skincare routine, consider these features:

Light quality

It’s well-worth remembering that not all LED lights are made equally. “LED lights with a higher CRI rating will ensure that the lighting is as close to natural daylight as possible — allowing you to see the colours clearly and accurately,” Dr. Tara Lalvani explains. “This makes it easier to judge how your makeup will look in real life, rather than under poor artificial light.”

Different light settings

Clearly, the most in-demand mirrors are usually the ones that let you customise your lighting. As well as being dimmable, many can cast multiple temperatures — including daylight, warm light, and cool light.

Plus — thanks to a new generation of LED makeup mirrors with built-in phone holders and chargers — it’s also never been easier to film yourself in action or to follow along with a makeup TikTok tutorial.

Size and portability

Where will you primarily be using your mirror? For a permanent makeup spot, go for a larger Hollywood-style mirror — or pick a wall-mounted option if you’re keen to save precious dressing table space. Alternatively, if you’d like something that you can move around the house a little more easily, pick a chic pedestal mirror — or a slimline option with a foldable stand.

Meanwhile, if you’re looking for something smaller to slip in your handbag for on-the-go touch-ups, there are plenty of more compact options to consider — most of which you can use cordless as long as they’ve been charged in advance.

Is a lighted makeup mirror worth it?

In short — yes. “With an illuminated makeup mirror, you’re less likely to over or under apply makeup, and you’ll find it easier to blend seamlessly whilst avoiding harsh lines,” Hughes adds. “Essentially, you’re more likely to achieve a polished, professional finish with good lighting.”

Are Secondhand Workout Clothes Sanitary? What to Know Before You Buy

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Are Secondhand Workout Clothes Sanitary? What to Know Before You Buy

Thrift shopping deserves every ounce of its current internet buzz: It’s better for the environment—and for your checking account. But when you’re shopping for secondhand workout clothes, the germ expert SELF consulted says it pays to be a little more discerning with those pre-loved yoga and running fits. Ahead, our experts break down a six-step process for evaluating vintage items before you haul them home.

Check the tags

So you’ve located the perfect second-chance windbreaker or yoga pants? Peek the tag, tailor Sarene Alsharif, CEO of Tad More Tailoring tells SELF. The type of fabric you’re dealing with can determine the longevity of the piece. Natural materials, such as cotton, merino wool, or bamboo—all of which last a long time and tend to maintain their shapes. Avoid synthetic materials like spandex or nylon, which may stretch and sag over time.

Microbiologist and immunologist Jason Tetro, tells SELF, that organic fabrics are also less likely to be germy. “Bacteria and other microbes tend to attach to more synthetic fabrics over natural ones,” he explains. “Cotton and nylon are pretty good at resisting bacterial attachment. However, acrylic and polyester tend to be havens for bacteria. Wool is in between, although it tends to have antimicrobial properties. Same with some types of bamboo,” says Tetro, author of The Germ Files.

Consider the current condition

Now, it’s time to take a close look at what’s holding the garment together. “Especially with leggings, you want to look at the stitching of the seat, crotch, and the top of the thighs—that’s where there’s the most strain on it,” says Alsharif. “So if you see stitches popping or empty spaces where there should be a stitch, that means that the stitching is coming undone there.”

Check the larger swath of plastic on the waistband or the base of the sports bra, too, she adds. “When you pull on [the elastic]is it stretching out? Is it stretching out a lot or just a little bit? Sometimes, from all of the washing, the elastic can become stiff, and it’s not going to stretch out,” explains Alsharif. Conversely, the elastic band may be too loose and saggy, so give it a good tug and check for that Goldilocks feel.

Finally, check for opacity. While you may not be able to perform the squat test in-store, Alsharif recommends pressing a palm in the fabric to check for see-throughness. This will help you avoid accidentally flashing anyone in yoga class or at the gym.

Perform a sniff test

If it smells funky on the rack, it’s not worth adding to your closet, clinical pathologist S. Wesley Long, MD tells SELF. Beyond being unpleasant, smells can indicate the presence of lingering bacteria and sweat residue, he explains.

Avoid intimate items

“I would not recommend buying used socks or undergarments for hygiene reasons,” says Dr. Long. “Socks and undergarments, for example, have direct contact with sensitive areas and may be harder to clean thoroughly, so purchasing them secondhand is not recommended.” The same goes for hats, which could contain lice.

Is Online Thrift Shopping Okay?

It just isn’t possible to perform all these checks on Poshmark, ThredUp, and Depop—so what’s an online thrifter to do? “I’ll be honest. I have a hard time buying anything used online,” says Tetro. “If it’s outerwear or something that can be used as an outer layer, I’m sure it will be fine. But if it’s going to touch your skin, I think it’s better to have the chance to do the tests.”

From armpit to compost pit – how to compost your Woohoo cardboard tube

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From armpit to compost pit – how to compost your Woohoo cardboard tube

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So, you’ve squeezed, swiped, and used up every last bit of your Woohoo deodorant stick or lip balm.

Your pits are fresh, your lips are soft and now you’re left with an empty cardboard tube.

Most people would just chuck it in the bin and move on with their lives.

But you? You’re better than that.

Because this little tube isn’t landfill-bound. Nope. It’s compostable.

Which means instead of sitting in a rubbish pile for the next 500 years, it can break down naturally and actually do some good for the planet.

Let’s talk about how to turn your empty Woohoo tube into garden gold.

First, why compost?

Composting is basically nature’s way of taking out the trash, without the trash part. You compost food scraps, garden waste, and other biodegradable goodies (like your Woohoo tubes), let nature work its magic and bam… nutrient-rich soil.

It reduces waste, cuts methane emissions and helps build healthier soil.

The catch? Not everything breaks down the way you’d hope. Some cardboard is lined with plastic. Some have weird inks. Some just refuse to die.

But not ours.

Woohoo tubes are home-compostable, plastic-free, and printed with biodegradable plant-based inks. They’re basically born ready to return to the earth.

So, what do you do with yours now that it’s empty?

How to Compost Your Woohoo Tube Like a Pro

Step 1: Scrape It Clean

First things first, make sure there’s no leftover product inside. Scrape out any remnants of deodorant or lip balm. Your pits and lips have had their moment. Now it’s time for the soil to get its share.

Step 2: Soak It in Water

Cardboard is tough, but water makes it weak. Give your empty tube a little soak (just for a few minutes) to soften it up. Think of it as a fun little farewell bath.

Step 3: Tear or Chop It Up

Your compost bin isn’t a fan of big, bulky items. It likes things in small, snackable pieces. So go wild! Rip it up with your hands, or if you’re feeling fancy, grab some scissors and make confetti. The smaller the pieces, the faster they break down.

Step 4: Toss It in Your Compost Bin (or the Great Outdoors)

Now for the fun part – sending it off into the composting afterlife. Got a home compost bin? Perfect. If not, here are some alternatives:

  • Bury it in your garden – Mother Nature loves a surprise snack.
  • Drop it in your council compost collection – Check if your local area has one (many do!).
  • Pass it to a composting mate – everyone’s got that one eco-friend.
  • Take it to your community gardens – Many have composting programs and love new contributions.

Step 5: Watch It Disappear Like Magic

Unlike plastic packaging (which sticks around for yonks), your Woohoo tube will break down within a few months to a couple of years, depending on compost conditions. And just like that, it’ll turn into nutrient-rich soil that helps plants grow.

So yeah, chucking your empty Woohoo tube into the compost might seem like a small thing but small things add up. It really is one of the easiest, planet-friendly moves you can make.

So go on. Give your Woohoo tubes the compostable send-off they deserve.

EU Adopts Stricter Toy Safety Rules, Expands Chemical Bans and Introduces Digital Product Passports

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EU Adopts Stricter Toy Safety Rules, Expands Chemical Bans and Introduces Digital Product Passports

THE WHAT? The European Parliament has approved new toy safety regulations aimed at reducing the number of unsafe toys on the EU market and strengthening protections for children’s health and development.

THE DETAILS The updated regulation replaces the 2009 directive and responds to growing online toy sales, including imports from outside the EU, and increased use of digital technologies. Member states and industry stakeholders will have 4.5 years to comply.

The rules significantly expand chemical restrictions: the existing ban on carcinogenic, mutagenic and reproductive-toxic (CMR) substances is extended to endocrine disruptors, respiratory toxins, skin-toxic substances and other chemicals deemed especially harmful to children. The intentional use of PFAS and the most hazardous bisphenols will be prohibited, and allergenic fragrances will be banned in toys for children under three and in any toys intended for mouthing.

Manufacturers will be required to conduct comprehensive safety assessments covering chemical, mechanical, electrical and physical hazards, as well as flammability, hygiene, radioactivity and risks linked to digital features.

All toys placed on the EU market must carry a digital product passport (DPP), improving traceability and enabling more efficient customs and market surveillance checks. Online marketplaces must also ensure CE markings, safety warnings and DPPs are clearly displayed, with non-compliant toys classified as “illegal content” under the Digital Services Act.

Manufacturers, importers and distributors will face clearer and stricter obligations, including immediate corrective action and notification requirements when risks are identified.

THE WHY? The regulation aims to tighten enforcement, modernise safety requirements and address gaps created by cross-border e-commerce and emerging digital risks in children’s products.

Source: European Parliament

Cream vs Powder Bronzer: How to Choose

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Cream vs Powder Bronzer: How to Choose

It’s that time again, the sun is shining brightly, the days are longer, and the look of sun-kissed skin is in. Summertime is the ideal time to explore the world of bronzers.

There is a misconception that bronzing and contouring are one and the same, this couldn’t be further from the truth. Contouring is meant to bring dimension and depth to the face with subtle sculpting while bronzers are meant to bring warmth and glow.

There is also a distinct difference in the shades of contouring products and bronzers. Because contouring is meant to add depth and dimension the shades often have a noticeably cooler undertone while bronzers have more a skin-like undertone.

Cream vs Powder

With so many options you may find yourself asking should I choose a cream or a powder? Cream bronzers are often a great choice for drier skins because of their emollient nature making it easy to get a softer blend. However, the new PureBronze collection, despite being a powder, gives a soft touch and blends easily even on a drier skin. It is equally important for oily skins to choose the correct texture for bronzers. Oily skins should avoid choosing bronzers that are heavily shimmered this can cause the skin to look very textured and shiny.

Finding Your Undertone

Just like any other complexion product, both depth of skin and undertone play important roles when choosing a bronzer.

The general rule of thumb is to opt for a bronzer one or two shades darker than your natural skin tone. Whether you are fair, light, medium, deep, or somewhere in between, knowing your skin’s undertone is just as important as knowing your depth of skin.

If you are unsure of your undertone here is a quick review:

  • Undertones fall into three basic categories: warm, cool, and neutral.
  • A warm undertone is more peachy, golden, or yellow.
  • A cool undertone is generally associated with skin that has hints of blue, pink.
  • Neutral undertones have a mix of cool and warm undertones.
  • Your undertone will affect how your skin appears when it is tan.
    • Lighter skin tones with warm undertones tan more peach. Choose a bronzer that is peachy based or neutral tan.
    • Light to medium skin tones with warm undertones tan more golden. Choose a bronzer that has a copper tone.
    • Deeper skin tones tan with warm undertones tan more of a deep bronze. Choose a bronzer that is deep rich chocolate.
    • Lighter skin tones with cool undertones tan rosier. Choose a bronzer with a rosier tone.
    • Light to medium skin tones with a cool undertone tan more of a deep cinnamon. Choose a tan shade bronzer with a hint of that cinnamon hue.
    • Deeper or richer skin tones with a cool undertone tan more reddish. Choose a deep brown with a hint of red.
    • Lastly, if you have a neutral undertone there is no detectable prominent shade, you may burn then tan. Opt for a beige tone that will not cause the skin to look to red or orange.

Now that we have discussed undertone and depth, application is also an essential element in getting the ultimate natural sun-kissed look. If using in conjunction with complexion products such as foundation make sure to apply a dusting of powder to prevent an uneven application. If a cream bronzeris preferredit can be blended directly onto the skin after foundation or tinted moisturizer.

Just as contour has specific rules for placement so do bronzers. Applying where the sun naturally hits the face is key. Proper bronzer placementincludes the sides of the forehead, around the temples in a c formation, the tip of the nose and the chin. Fan brushes are the best tool to use, remember this is to add warmth not coverage. A fan brush will keep the application light and natural. Don’t forget about the neck and decollate. For an added glow use a shimmer bronzer on the high points of the face such as the cheekbones and the bridge of the nose.

Bronzers can also be great on the days where you’re not wearing a lot of makeup or taking photos.

Whether you choose cream or powder, bronzers are a great way to welcome in and celebrate summer.

Rinseless Root Refresh Named Best Dry Shampoo – Iles Formula

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Rinseless Root Refresh Named Best Dry Shampoo – Iles Formula

We are proud to announce that the Iles Formula Rinseless Root Refresh has been awarded Best Dry Shampoo in the Marie Claire Hair Awards 2025 — a celebration of innovation, performance, and true luxury in haircare.

This recognition is more than a win. It is a testament to our philosophy: that clean, fresh hair should never come at the cost of scalp health or hair integrity.

More Than a Dry Shampoo

At first glance, the Rinseless Root Refresh may seem like a dry shampoo, but it is so much more.

Where traditional dry shampoos rely on heavy powders and aerosol sprays to mask oil, our formula takes a different approach. Powered by clean, botanical ingredients, it gently cleanses the scalp without waterreviving roots and resetting your hair’s freshness and volume without leaving residue.

It is ideal for in-between wash days, post-gym refreshes, travel, or whenever your scalp needs a light reset.

A New Category of Clean

The Rinseless Root Refresh was created as a solution for modern lifestyles. It acts as a hybrid, combining the purifying effect of a hair wash with the convenience of its application.

Infused with science and clean beauty principlesthis innovative formula:

  • Purifies and refreshes the scalp without disrupting its natural balance

  • Absorbs oil and odour without powdery build-up

  • Delivers a soft, beachy texture without salt or stiffness

  • Supports scalp healthmaking it suitable even for sensitive skin

It leaves hair feeling clean, sumptuous, and lustrous,  as if freshly washed.

How to Use It

  • Shake well before use. Spray on scalp and roots.

  • Gently massage to absorb sebum and product buildup. Do not rinse.

  • Blow dry roots freestyle in the opposite direction to hair growth.

  • Brush through and re-style as normal.

  • Use as required between washes.

The Marie Claire Seal of Approval

Marie Claire’s panel of expert judges and beauty editors described the Rinseless Root Refresh as “a game-changer in the dry shampoo category — weightless, elegant, and truly clean.”

To be recognised by a global authority in beauty is a moment of pride for us at Iles Formula — and a sign that the future of haircare lies in thoughtful, performance-led innovation.

Begin Your Fresh Start

Whether you’re heading from work to dinner, navigating long-haul flights, or simply extending time between washes, the Rinseless Root Refresh is your new hair essential.

→ Discover the award-winning formula for yourself. Shop now

How to take furniture, and make it fashion.

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How to take furniture, and make it fashion.

So what has furniture got to do with a style blog you ask?

Well my friends, if you think about it, furniture is the fashion for your home right? It’s a way to express your style, to give yourself and your home a sense of personality and self, much like the clothes you wear.

There are so many links between fashion and furniture, and when Target Furniture reached out and asked me to come and visit their gorgeously renovated new store in Mt Wellington, I couldn’t wait to see how they have dialled up the style in-store and share it with you too (I’ve also now mentally planned a makeover for my whole house haha!).

If you’re a regular reader of the blog, you’ll know that the values I’m looking for in pieces of clothing are as follows:

  • Versatility
  • Longevity
  • Value for Money
  • Self Expression / Individuality

So what really impressed me about Target Furniture, is their commitment to those same values when it comes to furniture. The more time I spent in store, the more it really came across that shopping for furniture has so many similarities to what I do when I’m shopping with my styling clients; texture, colours, key pieces are all reoccurring themes in both scenarios, so let’s explore that more…

My Fave Finds.

Just like shopping for clothes, furniture shopping can be overwhelming, so I wanted to show you some of my personal favourites from Target Furniture, just to give you an idea of some of the gorgeous pieces they have, and get you started thinking about your own, unique furniture style too.

1. Add texture to your look to make it interesting!

Texture is where it’s at with the Edge Side Table in Natural. (will put links to each piece here and also the price that is current at time of publishing)

I love the interest in the shape of the side table itself, but also in the pattern of the wood.

This piece is like a gorgeous, intricate handbag. It can pair beautifully with a classic setup, or add an extra edge to something a bit more left of centre.

2. Have one key piece to elevate your look

If this was fashion, The Zara Sofa in Cream would be the most glorious coat! A key piece in your loungeroom, this sofa definitely makes an impact and elevates your space instantly!

Shopping for me is such a tactile experience, and I love the texture and hand touch the Zara Sofa offers.

3. Style and practicality can co-exist

Mid-Century Modern is always a furniture era I’m drawn to, the softness of the base and the simplicity of the glass and timber is what I love about the Maya Low Coffee Table in Natural.

This reminds me of a well-constructed shoe. Elegant and simple, but also practical and useful.

(from a practical standpoint, I love the curved edges for a coffee table, I have too many tiny humans in my house to have sharp edges at that level haha).

4. Luxury doesn’t have to equal beige

Who said all furniture has to be beige or grey? I just love the pop of colour the Madison Velvet Chair in Teal would bring to any space. It adds an element of luxury, just like a gorgeous velvet blazer would to your wardrobe.

I love the classic shape, with sharp corners but at the same time, the tone is soft and inviting and would work in any space (or in any wardrobe!)

Take classic black, but make it edgy and sophisticated

Eye-catching, without being over the top, the Oslo 6-drawer Lowboy in Dark has minimalistic lines and a sleek geometric frame, much like an elegant black jumpsuit

Both the jumpsuit and the Lowboy have a classic colour and silhouette, yet are not for the shy violets! They both have a distinct edge, with a touch of modern sophistication.

One of each for me, please!

6. The most elegant pieces can also be functional

The Haven Bookend Bedframe is right at the top of my personal list, with the light and relaxing colour palette, but the practical element of the bookend, perfect for either storage or styling (or both).

Much like a pair of cream wide leg trousers, this bedframe has a soft, classic feel, but also brings the practicality of storage (just like pockets in pants!).

I can see this frame fitting into many a different style bedroom, just as a classic wide leg pant will suit many a style personality.

7. Choose pieces where form and function meet

Practical, for outdoor use, durable and stylish all rolled into one. I’m talking not only about these gorgeous sunglasses, but also theTropea 3 Piece Outdoor Lounge Set, Gunmetal

I love the curves on the frame, something you don’t see much in outdoor furniture, and the on-trend mesh panels add texture.

This clever design also includes wood-like trim that is also actually aluminium, so will withstand the elements much longer and last for years and years, much like a sturdy pair of sunglasses.

Love my choices? You can shop a curated collection of my favourites on the TARGET FURNITURE WEBSITE

Over the next few months, I’m going to share some of my fave finds from Target Furniture, and show you how you can add that stylish touch to your house, as well as your wardrobe, but first, let me tell you a little more about Target Furniture here in NZ.

The Target Furniture Story.

Target Furniture has been one of New Zealand’s leading furniture retailers for more than 30 years. They’re a 100% Kiwi-owned and operated family business that is passionate about providing Kiwis with affordable furniture that doesn’t compromise on quality or style.

After opening Target Furniture in 1992, Monty Bielby launched the first franchise store in 2001 with a vision to help Kiwis create homes they love – and this is something we still pride ourselves on today.

In the early days, Monty worked closely with designers to craft a premium range of furniture. When importing gained momentum in the 90s, he moved the majority of manufacturing overseas to improve efficiency.

They have seven stores nationwide, but can deliver anywhere in NZ, without the long wait times, as everything is already here in New Zealand ready to be shipped.

I’d love to know your thoughts, what are your favourite pieces from the Target Furniture range? Tell me in the comments below.

This is a sponsored post thanks to Target Funiture. Please support the brands that support this blog.

Is Slugging Actually Good for Your Skin? – 100% PURE

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Is Slugging Actually Good for Your Skin? – 100% PURE

The beauty TikTokers are at it again. The latest K-beauty trend to hit the For You pages and hashtags on the app is designed to give you the appearance of Korean glass-like skin and the dreamiest texture this side of the beauty internet.

Slugging, as it’s affectionately called, is the technique of smearing petroleum jelly on your face before bedtime. Yes, the sworn-by trend with a hashtag alone that yields over 189 million views could be the messy but golden ticket to baby-soft skin.

Let’s take a closer look at this K-beauty TikTok trend to see if it’s living up to its viral hype – plus some natural alternatives to the petroleum-sourced viral sensation!

What Exactly Is the TikTok Trend of Slugging?

You’re not alone if the term ‘slugging’ conjures up yet another K-beauty TikTok trend of putting snail mucin on your face or entails visions of slugs sliding across your face all in the name of silky skin. But the nighttime technique of slathering on petroleum jelly does leave a slimy, thick film resembling a slug – hence the trend’s namesake.

Is the viral beauty trend the key to waking with reborn skin? Since slugging entails applying a heavy-duty occlusive layer (traditionally balms like Aquaphor or Vaseline) it prevents transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and dehydration of the skin that occurs overnight so you wake to fresh, plump skin.

Slugging also locks in moisture and your other night skin care products so you get more effective and beneficial results. This, in turn, leads to a plethora of other benefits, like more youthful-looking, glowy, and bouncy skin.

vaseline jar

The Pros and Cons of Using Petroleum Jelly for Slugging

The beauty of slugging besides achieving ultra-soft skin from the comfort of your bed is it only requires one product: an occlusive! Occlusive ingredients act as a seal, keeping moisture from escaping while giving skin a more hydrated appearance. The top trending occlusive for slugging is Vaseline.

Under the popular brand name for petroleum jelly, Vaseline is more effective at reducing the amount of moisture your skin loses and locking in hydration compared to applying a regular moisturizer. The low cost of the ooey-gooey goodness can make it a good choice for treating dry skin and other skin conditions like rosacea and eczema as well as anti-aging concerns.

The occlusive properties of Vaseline also have some drawbacks. The water-trapping barrier of Vaseline can also trap any bad bacteria that may already be on the skin, which could cause acne and exacerbate rosacea. Since most occlusives are petroleum-derived ingredients, there are concerns over some of the cancer-causing chemicals found in crude oil that may contaminate petroleum jelly.

open jars.jpg

What Are Some Natural Alternatives to Petroleum Jelly for Slugging Skin?

It’s reasonable to be concerned about the safety of petroleum-based ingredients in your skin care products. After all, petroleum can be refined into gasoline. Thankfully, there are some natural alternatives to Vaseline that we think could be real beauty saviors for slugging, too.

#1: 100% PURE Intensive Nourishing Balm

If you’re looking for the benefits of slugging without the mess and the chemicals from petroleum, this nourishing balm is the key to waking with reborn skin. It features natural occlusive ingredients like avocado and shea butters to reinforce the skin’s barrier.

Our balm is also fortified with non-comedogenic grapeseed and blackcurrant oils to restore and replenish dry skin. Its lightweight formula makes it perfect for slugging, for just about any skin type.

#2: Hydra Drench Cream

While not an occlusive balm, this ultra-lightweight cream with chia seed gel and sodium PCA is the perfect hydration prep before slugging. Layer it underneath your balm to supercharge moisture levels without clogging pores.

#3: Super Fruit Balm

Formulated with antioxidant-rich acai and goji berriesplus nourishing shea butter and grapeseed oilthis balm is a fantastic slugging option for sensitive or dry skin types. It reinforces the skin barrier and reduces redness while delivering ultra-deep hydration.

#4: 100% PURE Retinol Restorative Overnight Balm

This intensely moisturizing nighttime superstar is a game-changer for slugging. This balm includes non-comedogenic avocado butter and organic beeswax, which functions as an occlusive barrier to keep dry skin moisturized without feeling greasy. Vitamin E moisturizes flakes and cracks. Sunflower seed oil and olive oil enhance skin repair so you can wake up to baby-soft skin.

Prep Like a Pro: What to Use Before Slugging”

Slugging works best when applied over clean, hydrated skin. To get the most out of your slugging routine, it’s essential to layer the right products underneath your balm. These hydrating serums and moisturizers from 100% PURE® help prep your skin for the ultimate overnight glow-up.

1. Rose Hyaluronic Acid Serum

Infused with rose hydrosol and hyaluronic acidthis serum draws moisture into the skin and plumps fine lines—perfect for layering before slugging.

2. Hydra Drench Cream

As mentioned above, this lightweight cream with chia seed gel and omega fatty acids quenches thirsty skin without heaviness. Ideal for oily and combo skin types prepping for slugging.

3. Green Tea EGCG Concentrate Cream

Packed with EGCG antioxidants, olive squalaneand yerba matethis cream helps calm inflammation and strengthen the skin barrier before sealing everything in with a balm.

Frequently Asked Questions About Slugging

1. Is slugging good for acne-prone skin?

It depends. If your skin is well-cleansed and you’re using non-comedogenic products underneath, slugging can help lock in hydration and calm irritation. But occlusive layers like Vaseline may trap dirt or bacteria, potentially worsening breakouts. Opt for non-comedogenic alternatives like 100% PURE’s Intensive Nourishing Balm instead.

2. Can I slug every night?

You canbut most skin types don’t need to. Slugging 2–3 times per week is ideal for dry or dehydrated skin. Oily or acne-prone skin may benefit from slugging only during colder months or after skin barrier damage.

3. Should I apply slugging products over serums or moisturizers?

Yes! Slugging is the final step. Think of your balm as a lid: you’ll want to apply all your water-based and active treatments first (like serums and creams), then seal everything in with your balm to prevent moisture loss.

4. What ingredients should I avoid under slugging?

Avoid strong actives like AHAs, BHAsor retinoids under occlusion if you’re new to slugging. These ingredients can become more potent when sealed in, potentially leading to irritation. Stick to calming, hydrating formulas like hyaluronic acid, niacinamideor ceramide-rich moisturizers.

5. Can I use face oils for slugging instead of balm?

Not quite. Face oils are emollientswhich soften and nourish the skin—but they don’t seal in moisture like occlusives. If you’re looking to slug with clean products, go for a balm with beeswax, shea butteror plant waxes like 100% PURE’s Super Fruit Balm.

France Seeks Three-Month Nationwide Suspension of Shein Over Sale of Illegal Products

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France Seeks Three-Month Nationwide Suspension of Shein Over Sale of Illegal Products

THE WHAT? The French government is requesting a court-ordered three-month suspension of Shein’s entire French website after authorities identified the sale of childlike sex dolls and banned weapons on the platform.

THE DETAILS According to the Finance Ministry, France will petition a Paris judge to apply an emergency judicial measure under Article 6.3 of the country’s digital economy law, which enables courts to impose actions preventing harm caused by online content.

Shein disabled its third-party marketplace in France on 5 November after regulators found the prohibited products offered by external sellers, but the company’s main platform—featuring Shein’s own apparel—remains live.

The government is now seeking a full-site suspension to pressure the company into strengthening product oversight and compliance controls. A hearing at the Paris court is scheduled for Wednesday, with Infinite Styles Services Co Ltd, Shein’s Dublin-based European entity, summoned to appear. A ruling is expected in the coming weeks.

THE WHY? French authorities are pursuing the suspension to curb the circulation of illegal and harmful products and compel the platform to improve vetting and enforcement measures.

Source: Reuters

Makeup and Beauty Blog Monday Poll, Vol. 891

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Makeup and Beauty Blog Monday Poll, Vol. 891

I hope you have a double rainbow kind of day!

So…what is the Monday Poll?

Excellent question! It isn’t, contrary to its name, an actual poll, like with little clicky buttons. It’s just a list of more or less random questions I’ve been posting on this blog every Monday morning for the past quadrillion years (since 2007).

1. Something you need to do for beauty maintenance soon?

Oh boy, my upper lip could use a wax. LOL! If I let it go much further, I’m going to look like a bad guy with a twirly mustache.

2. Something nice that’s beauty-related that you’ve done for yourself recently?

About a month ago, a friend of mine and I went to the Cavallo Point spa in Sausalito. I can’t wait to go back!

3. What’s a word that you like?

Honestly, I have so many. Off the top of my head: jaunt, effervescent, soliloquy.

4. What’s a funny little habit that your pet has?

When Rosie sleeps, she snores loudly. (It wakes me up sometimes.) Marnie likes to bring her favorite tennis ball outside; she doesn’t actually want to play fetch, though. She’ll just carry it and run around.

5. What’s the best Thanksgiving side dish?

Does pecan pie count? Because that’s all I’m interested in, hahaha! If it doesn’t, then I’ll go with mashed potatoes.

Your friendly neighborhood beauty addict,

Karen

P.S. Here are the questions to copy/paste with your answers in a comment. Talk to ya soon.

1. Something you need to do for beauty maintenance soon?
2. Something nice that’s beauty-related that you’ve done for yourself recently?
3. What’s a word that you like?
4. What’s a funny little habit that your pet has?
5. What’s the best Thanksgiving side dish?

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