Home Blog Page 223

Styling Rules: From Your Wardrobe to Your Walls

0

Have you ever noticed how a perfectly styled outfit and a beautifully decorated room can both evoke the same feeling of satisfaction? That’s no coincidence. Whether you’re piecing together an outfit or designing a living space, the underlying principles of styling are surprisingly similar.

Let’s delve into the fascinating world of “rules” (and how to cleverly break them) that govern both style and interiors, thanks to the experts at Target Furniture.

Style Fundamentals: More Than Just Clothes

In fashion, a few classic rules can elevate your style game:

  • The 3 Colour Rule: A simple yet effective guideline is to limit your outfit to three colours. This creates a cohesive look without being overwhelming. Your base colour often takes up most of the outfit, a secondary colour adds depth, and an accent colour provides pops of interest. Let’s have a look at an example…. In this outfit, WHITE becomes the base colour, I’ve used accents of red to add depth by contrasting the white, and then the navy stripe makes the look pop
  • Smart Casual Mastery: This dress code can be tricky, but it’s all about finding the sweet spot between polished and relaxed. Think tailored pieces (like a blazer or chinos) mixed with more casual elements (like a t-shirt or sneakers). The key is to choose high-quality fabrics and well-fitting items. My general rule is to take TWO smart pieces + TWO casual pieces and wear them together, like so…

Interior Design Insights: Creating Harmony at Home

When it comes to interior design, the magic lies in understanding the interplay of:

  • Size & Shape: Just as you wouldn’t wear a top that is the same length as your pants, a room with furniture of the same height feels off-balance. Varying the size and shape of furniture and décor adds visual interest and makes the most of your space.

See how below, the coffee table sits at a different height to the side table, contrasting with the armchair. It gives the eye many different things to look at.

SHOP THIS LOOK AT TARGET FURNITURE: Keira 3 seater sofa, light grey + Kiera 2 seater sofa, light grey | Olso console table, dark + Oslo coffee table, dark | Harper Chair, light grey

  • Colour & Texture: Think of your colour palette as the mood setter for your room. Are you going for calm (cool blues and greens), energetic (warm yellows and oranges), sophisticated (neutrals and metallics), or moody (deep jewel tones)? The 70-20-10 rule from graphic design is a great starting point:
    • 70% of your room should feature your dominant colour (walls, large furniture).
    • 20% should be your secondary colour (smaller furniture, rugs).
    • 10% is reserved for your accent colour (throws, pillows, artwork)

This bedroom is such a great example of creating a warm, calm environment using the wood tones and creams accented by the greens.

SHOP THIS LOOK AT TARGET FURNITURE: Industrial headboard + Industrial 2-drawer bedside | Kitset drawer mattress base

  • Texture: Don’t forget to layer in different textures – think smooth, rough, soft, and hard – to make your space feel rich and inviting.

The Art of Contrast: Fashion & Interiors

One principle that bridges both fashion and interiors is the power of contrast.

How Does Retinol Work? The Science

0

Retinol has truly become a buzzword in the beauty industry, praised for its anti-aging and blemish-fighting properties.

Wondering how you can make this ingredient work for your skin concerns? This article will get into the science behind retinol, its many benefits, and how to incorporate it into your regular skincare routine.

What Is Retinol?

Retinol is a type of retinoid and a form of vitamin A. It’s a powerful skincare ingredient known for supporting cell turnover and collagen production.

In short, retinol helps exfoliate skin and encourages it to make collagen, allowing it to look luminous, plump, and youthful.

Unlike prescription retinoids, retinol is available over the counter, accessible to anyone. In most cases, it is also fairly cost-effective, making it more attainable for everyday life.

What Is the Science Behind Retinol?

Retinol’s effectiveness lies in its ability to penetrate deep into the skin, where it can really make an impact. Its small molecular structure allows it to reach the dermis, where it can work its magic on a cellular level.

When retinol is applied to your skin, it goes through a transformation inside your skin cells.

Here’s how it works:

  1. Absorption: First, the retinol penetrates the outer layer of your skin, the epidermis.
  2. Conversion: Once inside, special proteins in your skin cells — called enzymes — change the retinol into retinoic acid. This is the “active” form that your skin can use to its benefit.
  3. Cell Turnover: Retinol helps tell your skin it’s time to start churning out new skin cells.
  4. Collagen and Elastin Support: Retinoic acid also signals your skin to continue producing collagen and elastin. These proteins keep your skin plump, firm, and elastic.

Essentially, retinol helps tell your skin cells to work effectively and produces materials that keep your skin looking young.

What Are Some Key Benefits of Retinol for Skin?

Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s explore some of retinol’s most talked-about benefits for your complexion.

Supports a Youthful-Looking Complexion

Retinol is well-loved for its visible anti-aging benefits on the skin’s surface. It can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, improve skin texture, and promote a more even-looking skin tone.

Want your skin to look like it did when you were a teenager? Retinol is your first line of defense.

If crow’s feet and fine lines around your eyes are starting to creep up on you, go for the Stem Cellular SleepWrinkle Retinol Overnight Eye Cream. With its proprietary blend of retinol, Bio-Retinol, peptides, hyaluronic acid, and C0Q10, 97% of study participants showed improvement in fine lines and wrinkles.

Eases Breakouts

For those struggling with acne, retinol can be an absolute game changer. It helps unclog pores and regulates sebum production, to help keep oily skin at bay, and manage existing breakouts.

Skin Texture

Regular use of retinol can lead to smoother, more refined skin texture and tone. It helps exfoliate dead skin cells and supports the proper growth of new, healthy cells.

If you feel your skin needs a little extra help with exfoliation, you can also add our Green Apple Peel Exfoliating Mask to your routine once or twice a week.

How Does Retinol Combat the Signs of Aging?

Visible signs of aging are one of the most common skin concerns. If you’re dealing with age spots, fine lines, and sagging skin, retinol could be a great way to help your skin look more youthful.

Supporting Collagen Production

One way that retinol fights against signs of aging is through its collagen-supporting properties. Collagen is essential for maintaining the skin’s firmness and elasticity, and it can also help reduce the appearance of dark spots.

Reducing the Look of Fine Lines and Wrinkles

By supporting cell turnover and collagen production, retinol helps diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles — the most obvious signs of aging in the skin.

Supporting Skin Elasticity

It’s a fact of life — as we age, our skin loses elasticity. However, just because we know it will happen doesn’t mean we have to live with it. Retinol supports the proper production of elastin, which helps skin maintain its shape and bounce back.

What Is Retinol’s Role in Managing Breakouts?

If breakouts are a main concern for you, there’s good news here, too — retinol could help ease your discomfort.

Unclogging Pores

Retinol helps prevent the buildup of dead skin cells that can clog pores and lead to acne. Because it promotes faster cell turnover, it also helps to keep skin and pores clean.

Supporting Balanced Sebum Production

Excess sebum can contribute to acne. Because retinol helps regulator oil production, it can reduce the likelihood of breakouts.

Fading the Look of Pigmentation Issues

Retinol can help to fade dark spots and pigmentation caused by breakouts, sun damage, or aging, leading to a more even skin tone. Who doesn’t love even, luminous, dewy skin?

How To Choose the Right Retinol Product

Retinol products come in various concentrations, typically ranging from .01% to 1%. That might not seem like a lot, but keep in mind that retinol packs a punch. It’s best to start with a lower concentration and work your way up as your skin becomes accustomed to a new product.

Over-the-Counter vs. Prescription Retinoids

You may have heard the terms “retinol” and “retinoid,” and wondered about the difference between the two. Retinol is typically available over the counter, and is available in various concentrations and types of products.

Retinoids, on the other hand, are more concentrated and intense for those with severe skincare needs. We generally recommend trying a retinol product before resorting to retinoids, which can be pricier and require an appointment with a dermatologist.

Formulations for Different Skin Types

When choosing a retinol product, consider your skin type. Don’t choose a product simply because it has retinol in it. Rather, select a product that works with your skin, and has the nourishing ingredients you trust.

Our Stem Cellular Anti-Wrinkle Retinol Overnight Serum is one of our bestsellers and was voted best in class by the Chicago Tribune. 67% of users noticed a reduction in dark spots in less than two months, which is truly remarkable.

How To Incorporate Retinol Into Your Skincare Routine

When you’re adding retinol to your lineup for the first time, there are a few things to keep in mind to make sure you have a good experience.

Starting Slow

There’s no need to be nervous when it comes to retinol. This super-strong skincare ingredient has gotten a bad rap for being, at times, a little too strong. This can be remedied by simply taking it slow when starting off with a new retinol routine.

Many people just start out too quickly and with too strong a concentration. The best practice for retinol beginners is to start slowly: use it once or twice a week initially.

Ideal Time and Frequency of Application

Once your skin has become accustomed to retinol you can start increasing the frequency with which you apply it. Most people find that they can safely and comfortably use retinol everyday.

Retinol is best applied at night since it can increase your skin’s sensitivity to sunlight. If, for whatever reason, you want to apply retinol in the morning, be extra careful about applying your sunscreen.

Complementary Ingredients

Pair retinol with hydrating, nourishing ingredients like hyaluronic acid and seed oils to combat potential dryness. Niacinamide is another great partner for retinol, as it can reduce potential irritation that can occur, and can enhance its anti-aging and anti-acne effects.

If you’re looking for a serum to use during the day to complement your nightly retinol regimen, try a vitamin C serum.

Our Antioxidant Serum is a great choice for all skin types. Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that protects against UV damage and environmental stressors, so it’s the perfect pairing for retinol, which repairs existing damage.

What Are the Potential Side Effects of Retinol?

As we mentioned earlier, some people do experience a little irritation when first starting out with retinol: redness, drying, or peeling can occur in some people, especially those with sensitive skin.

These effects typically subside as skin adjusts. To minimize irritation, start with a low concentration, use 102 times a week to start, and make sure to use a moisturizer.

How To Maximize Retinol’s Effectiveness

For best results, be consistent with your retinol use. Results often don’t become visible until at least 6-8 weeks, with the full results taking even longer — up to six months.

Retinol is just part of a balanced skincare routine, so make sure you are also cleansing with a gentle cleanser, moisturizing, and wearing your SPF! For a great daytime moisturizer that does double duty, try out Prebiotix SPF 45 Glow, Daily Multi-Tasking Moisturizer.

Wrapping Up

Retinol is a powerful skincare ingredient with numerous benefits for aging and acne-prone skin. By understanding how it works and how to use it effectively, you can harness its potential to achieve healthy, youthful-looking skin.

Just like any skincare product, consistency is key, and you should always consult a dermatologist before making drastic changes to your routine, especially if you have complex skin issues.

When you can, choose clean, natural skincare products — like those from Juice Beauty.

Sources:

Retinoids in the Treatment of Skin Aging: An Overview of Clinical Efficacy and Safety | Dove Press

Retinol: The Ideal Retinoid for Cosmetic Solutions | JDDonline

A Clinical Anti-Ageing Comparative Study of 0.3 and 0.5% Retinol Serums: A Clinically Controlled Trial | Skin Pharmacology and Physiology

Does Retinol Deserve the Hype? A Stanford Dermatologist Weighs In | Stanford Medicine

Paula’s Choice Has a New Ectoin Booster and It’s Surprisingly Good

0

I take ingredient trends with a grain of salt. Sometimes, with an eye roll. But Ectoin has been more than a buzzword in the beauty space for a few years now, and the new Paula’s Choice 7% Ectoin + Hyaluronic Acid Booster proves it’s only gaining momentum. So what is it? What does it do? And most importantly, do you actually need Ectoin in your skincare routine? Here’s the rundown.

Paula's Choice barrier repair serum.

What is Ectoin?

Often referred to as an extremolyte, this amino acid derivative helps protect organisms and micro-organisms (including our own skin cells) from aggressive environmental stressors. In practice, Ectoin supports cellular integrity, helps prevent transepidermal water loss, and stabilizes cell structures and proteins. Think of it as a miniature protective shield against UV exposure, heat, cold, and general environmental nonsense.

Paula's Choice ectoin serum review.

Who is Ectoin good for?

Ectoin naturally aligns with soothing, balancing, and protective formulas, which makes it especially appealing for dry, sensitive, redness-prone, or easily irritated skin. That said, anyone invested in barrier health can benefit.

Personally, as someone who spent his 30s test-driving every acid toner known to man, I now reach for ingredients that help offset my retinoid use. That’s where Ectoin fits in. It also happens to star in one of my favorite essences. If you’re curious, check out my earlier thoughts on the Dr. Loretta formula.

What’s in the Paula’s Choice Ectoin Booster?

In addition to the headline ingredient, Paula’s Choice loads this booster with hydrating support players. The brand calls out a trifecta: Ectoin, Hyaluronic Acid, and Glycogen. If Glycogen sounds new, you’re not alone. It’s a complex sugar that helps replenish ceramides in the skin. We like that.

Paula's Choice Ectoin serum ingredient list.

Texture-wise, this launch has more substance than the other Paula’s Choice boosters. It reads like a creamy serum, almost a lightweight lotion. The dropper works, but the consistency could arguably shine even more in a pump. Jojoba, squalane, and vitamin E boost the moisturizing performance without tipping the formula into greasy territory. You only need a few drops. I learned the hard way that half a dropper leaves my face way too shiny.

Paula's Choice Ectoin booster texture on skin.

How I use this Ectoin serum

I love mixing a few drops of this fragrance-free booster into my peptide serum to maximize barrier support during the day. It layers beautifully under sunscreen. At night, I like applying it directly to freshly cleansed skin, waiting a few minutes, adding my retinol, then sealing everything in with a balm or cream as my occlusive step.

The formula plays well with others. The biggest surprise is how much it improves my retinol sandwich application method. My skin has become more redness-prone over the last decade, and this serum helps calm everything down noticeably. Borderline instantly.

Paula's Choice new barrier repair serum with Ectoin.

Mixing/Layering Ectoin with other ingredients

I can’t think of another ingredient this easy-going. Whether you prefer to layer or cocktail your serums, Ectoin gets along with just about everything. Antioxidants? Absolutely. Retinol? A perfect pairing. Hydrating ingredients? Natural fit. Exfoliating acids? No problem. Peptides and ceramides? Seamless.

Ectoin helps buffer potential irritation, which makes it a fantastic counterpart to formulas you may have found a touch too assertive in the past. It’s one of those rare additions that quietly improves how the rest of your routine behaves.

Final words

Paula’s Choice already makes one of my favorite moisturizers (Barrier Repair remains outstanding)and this booster is a smart extension of the line. The formula is treatment-focused, effective, and easy to slot into an existing routine. The price is a bit steep considering the brand’s original affordability ethos, but the concentration and overall concept aren’t widely available elsewhere. Fans of the brand and anyone navigating sensitive skin struggles will appreciate this launch.

$44 (20ml) at paulaschoice.com


Affiliate disclosure: Some links in this post are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase. It helps keep the reviews coming and the skincare shelf even more chaotic.


7 Ways to Use Cottage Cheese to Add Protein to Any Dish

0

Cottage cheese has been blessed with an image overhaul. Once considered a stodgy health food, it’s now a popular recipe add-in thanks to its sky-high protein content—a huge advantage in a day and age that treats protein like the be-all and end-all of nutrition, as SELF has previously reported.

For people who eat dairy (because not everyone does!), “cottage cheese is a really excellent concentrated protein source,” Desiree Nielsen, RD, a recipe developer with a focus on plant-based nutrition, tells SELF. While it also contains other vital nutrients—like calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin B12—protein is really the standout: Just a half-cup of cottage cheese contains around 12 grams, putting it on par with some protein powders, so even a small amount will have a big impact.

Compared to some other dairy foods (like regular cheese), cottage cheese is low in saturated fat, making it an especially strong dairy protein choice, according to Nielsen. It also has a mild flavor and soft, blendable texture that adapt well to a variety of dishes. “You can absolutely eat it out of a bowl with a spoon if you like, but it lends itself very well to incorporation in different recipes too,” Nielsen says. “There’s endless possibilities in terms of what people can make with cottage cheese,” Jasmine Hormati, MS, RD, a certified intuitive eating counselor and the founder of the New York City–based practice Mendinground Nutrition, tells SELF. “The sky’s the limit right now.”

On that note, we rounded up a few of the best tips and tricks for turning a tub of cottage cheese into high-protein breakfasts, lunches, and desserts. Here are seven creative suggestions for sneaking this ingredient—a bona fide “protein delivery vehicle,” as Nielsen describes it—into your cooking for a meaningful boost.

1. Put it in smoothies.

For Nielsen, this is the first option that springs to mind. Relative to protein powders, which tend to be pretty expensive (a two-pound tub of Optimum Nutrition’s 100% whey powder will run you up $50, for example), cottage cheese is a “great, affordable option for boosting,” she says, so adding a cup or two to your Nutribullet blend could deliver a comparable protein value for cheaper. Basically, any smoothie that you’d typically make with Greek yogurt “will also taste delicious if you put some cottage cheese in it.”

2. Spread it on toast.

While this tip is not earth-shatteringly original, it’s still worth mentioning because it’s so tried-and-true—and it even happens to be a personal favorite breakfast hack of Hormati’s. Once the cottage cheese is on, add vegetables, fruit, or other toppings as desired. “It could be some sort of fruit with honey drizzled on it, or some sort of jam, or vegetables like tomato, avocado, or cucumber,” Hormati says, adding “I personally love doing a cucumber-tomato option.” Her suggestion: Lean into seasonality. In summer, “fresh peaches would be really nice,” she says, though apples or berries could be tasty too. And honey always “brings a nice little bit of sweetness.”

3. Enhance dips and dressings.

You can easily protein-ify any dip or dressing by adding in blended cottage cheese, according to Nielsen. For an easy two-ingredient cottage cheese pesto, just stir some of the former into the latter. P(r)esto: a protein-enhanced version of the beloved basil-leaf paste. “So delicious and easy,” Nielsen says. Plus, it takes “five minutes to make.” (Heads-up: “You might need to balance the salt level or, if it’s tasting flat, add a little fresh acid, like a tiny splash of apple cider vinegar or a little bit of lemon.”) Just make sure your cottage cheese is blended rather than straight out of the container, since blending will soften the sludgy-yet-chunky texture and, in turn, make it easier to work with. “It becomes more like yogurt,” Nielsen says. Whatever dip route you take, finish by dunking in some veggie sticks for a “fantastic” afternoon snack.

4. Turn it into a pasta sauce.

If you’re not feeling a dip or dressing, “making a creamy sauce with cottage cheese could be another alternative,” Hormati says. You could try substituting cottage cheese for heavy cream in a homemade white sauce, adding cottage cheese to store-bought sauce for a creamier texture, or even striking out on your own entirely. If you’re in the mood for something seasonal, a suggestion from Hormati: Try blending chopped, cooked squash with cottage cheese for a DIY option that embraces fall flavors.

5. Swap it in for mayo.

No mayo? No problem—you can always use cottage cheese in a pinch. This hack can apply to any number of recipes: egg salad, mayo-based dips, dressings, and sauces, according to Hormati—even deviled eggs. “I’ve seen someone do that before,” she says, and it was “just so unexpected, so good.” More recently, she and her partner made chicken salad this way, replacing the mayo with an equivalent amount of cottage cheese. “What we we did was make the sauce first in a bowl and use a whisk to make it smoother and creamier, and then add in our food”—chopped boiled chicken, tomatoes, pickles, almonds, and dried cherries, plus some dill, sumac, and pomegranate molasses for an Iranian twist, Hormati says. She notes the swap results in a lighter texture and slightly different flavor profile that some people might find more pleasant.

6. Use it as a base for a burrito filling.

The sheet pan strategy is always an excellent meal prep option if you’re trying to get ahead on your breakfasts, lunches, and dinners for the week. Nielsen recommends mixing cooked eggs, cottage cheese, and various other burrito filling-type foods (“like black beans and corn or tomatoes and greens”), spreading the mixture on a baking sheet, and popping it in the oven to cook. (If you’re planning to incorporate lettuce, make sure to add it in after the baking step; otherwise the heat will turn it limp, soggy, and wholly unappetizing). Once the mixture is done baking, you can cut it into sections and roll it into tortillas for an easy to-go meal.

7. Boost your baking mix.

Yep, you can even make sweet treats with cottage cheese—though, FYI, Nielsen doesn’t recommend going off-book. “I highly recommend that you seek out recipes,” she says. “Maybe just don’t sort of freestyle it on your own.” Thankfully, there should be no shortage of inspiration online if you’re in the market for a cottage-cheese-based baked good. Banana bread is a popular option, Nielsen says, but if you’re feeling something a little more out of the box, you can find TikTok creators putting cottage cheese in everything from bagels to pancakes. Plus, the protein boost isn’t the only benefit: Taking this approach will also enhance the moisture content, arguably improving on the OG.

Is Your Skincare Routine Working? Here’s How to Tell – Merindah Botanicals

0

Here’s How to Know If Your Routine Is Actually Doing Its Job

You’ve been using your skincare routine for a while now, but how do you know if it’s actually working?

Most people expect instant results—but real skin changes take time. If you’re wondering whether your products are helping or hurting your skinhere’s how to tell if you’re on the right track.

Signs That Your Skincare Routine Is Working

✔️ Your skin feels balanced – It’s not overly oily or dry.
✔️ Your breakouts heal faster – Even if you still get an occasional pimple, it clears up more quickly.
✔️ Your skin looks brighter and more even – Less dullness, more glow!

How Long Should Skincare Take to Show Results?

  • Hydration improvements? 24-48 hours

  • Brighter skin? 2-4 weeks

  • Fewer breakouts? 6-8 weeks

  • Fine lines & wrinkles? 8-12 weeks

Skincare isn’t instantbut when used consistentlyyour products will deliver real, long-term results.

Final Thoughts

If you’re wondering if your routine is working, give it time! Track changes in your skin over the next few weeks and focus on consistency.

👉 Want to speed up results? Our Go to Glow Set is designed to transform your skin in just 5 minutes a day!

Smoother, Creamier, Dreamier: Our Natural Deodorant Pastes Just Got a Major Upgrade

0


style=”;”
/>

If you’ve ever scooped your favourite Woohoo deodorant paste and thought, “Why is this a little lumpy?” this one’s for you.

We’ve been quietly tinkering behind the scenes to reformulate our entire paste range. Not because the OGs weren’t amazing (they absolutely were) but because we knew we could make them even better. And we’re all about levelling up your pit care so you can feel more confident than ever before!

What’s changed?

Goodbye, lumps!

Temperature fluctuations used to mess with our texture, sometimes causing graininess or that annoying crystal bloom. To fix that, we’ve added an ingredient called Polyglyceryl-3 Tetrastearate (try saying that five times fast) which keeps your paste buttery smooth. Scoop, swipe on, smile 🙂

Boosted B.O. & sweat protection.

We’ve supercharged the performance so your pits stay fresher, drier and calmer even in 40°C heat or high-stress meetings:

  • Zinc ricinoleate to trap and neutralise odour
  • Micronised bamboo powder to help absorb moisture and keep you dry
  • A perfectly balanced blend of bicarb soda + magnesium for gentler extra strength performance against BO (plus we still have bicarb free options too!)

Extra skin-loving goodness

These new pastes also feature:

  • Rice bran wax to provide longer-lasting protection and reduce friction (yep, less chafing!)
  • Jojoba esters to help condition and soften delicate underarm skin

Wild’s had a scent refresh.

We’ve made two changes to our Wild scent:

  • Swapped out honey myrtle for lemon myrtle, which gives the blend a fresh, citrusy lift (and is more sustainable long-term)
  • Removed Peru balsam and replaced it with natural vanilla for warmth and balance

Still very much Wild just a little zippier, smoother and more universally loved by sensitive skin.

Woohoo Natural Deodorant Family Pack (6 x Pastes)

SHOP NOW

Same vibe. Just better.

We’ve kept everything you love about our deodorant pastes: natural ingredients, 100% recyclable, plastic-free packaging, and serious stink-fighting power. But now they’re creamier, more stable and better equipped to handle the chaos of Aussie weather (and life in general).

Pssst… Jingle is BACK!

We couldn’t re-launch the pastes without throwing in something extra festive fun. So yes, the rumours are true.

JINGLE is officially back, just in time for all your Pitmas in July celebrations.

If you know, you know that Jingle is our most-loved limited edition scent ever, and it sold out in a flash last time.

Once it did, we received an onslaught of emails and messages begging us to bring it back, and to launch it as a deodorant paste this time (not just a stick).

We couldn’t have you waiting another 12 months for this yummy scent to grace the Woohoo shelves again. So we got busy in the lab and brought it back, better than ever.

Now available in both stick and paste, Jingle features:

  • A delicious peppermint + vanilla candy cane scent
  • Extra-strength stink control
  • Bicarb-free formula for sensitive pits
  • Our new smoother, creamier texture

Whether you’re buying it for your own pits or gifting it to someone stinky you love, it’s worth grabbing one while you can. Once it sells out again, that’s it!

If that’s not worth celebrating, we don’t know what is. Happy Pitmas in July everyone!

SHOP NEW DEODORANT PASTES

Interparfums lowers forecast and withdraws 2026 guidance

0

Interparfums slightly lowered its 2025 revenue target on Wednesday, November 20. The group also withdrew its financial guidance for 2026, citing a combination of many different parameters, “both favorable and unfavorable.”

Interparfums now expects revenue of around EUR 890 million at current exchange rates, compared to approximately EUR 900 million previously.

Last month, the company behind Rochas and Solférino Paris, and the fragrance licenses for Jimmy Choo, Coach, Lacoste, and Lanvin, reported third-quarter results pressured by rising U.S. tariffs and, above all, a weakening dollar.

“After several years of robust growth and a near-doubling of sales in four years, growth slowed down in 2025,” stated Philippe Benacin, Chairman and CEO of Interparfums.


However, he added that the group remains focused on the future, with its sights set on “a very strong 2027, with several major launches,” including line extensions for its existing brands, the relaunch of the Annick Goutal brand, and the first launches for Off-White and Longchamp.

Despite a likely adverse economic environment and an unfavorable euro-dollar exchange rate, Philippe Santi, the group’s Deputy CEOexpects that the company will be able to keep up its profitability “relatively high” for 2026, without providing a specific figure.

5 ‘Acceptable’ Reasons to Forgive a Cheater, According to Couples’ Therapists

0

It’s really easy to swear you’d never forgive a cheating partner. But real-life relationships are messy, layered, and influenced by so much more than one (or a few) bad moments — which makes the question of whether there are ever ‘good’ reasons to look past infidelity a complicated one to say the least.

Of course, all of this is subjective. An immediate dealbreaker for one person might be something another couple feels they can genuinely work through. But for anyone wondering what circumstance could possibly excuse this sort of betrayal, the short answer is none: “There is no universally ‘good’ reason to cheat,” says Idit Sharoni, LMFT, a couples therapist who leads an infidelity recovery program called It’s Okay to Stay. In more than a decade of practice, she says, “I haven’t seen one case where anyone said, ‘Okay, that’s a really great justification!’”

That said, the relationship therapists we spoke with agree that people underestimate how possible it is to recover from an affair and even grow stronger on the other side of it — either as individuals or, if you choose, as a couple.

Either way, forgiveness can be the very tool that provides clarity, closure, and a surprising sense of peace. While there is no universal formula for what makes staying acceptable, here are a few factors they’ve seen that at least make the choice to forgive understandable.

1. You’ve been together for a while and share a deep history

Needless to say, couples who have been together for decades have a lot more on the line than those in the early stages of dating. “If you’ve been married for a really long time, it’s not just a simple decision to say, ‘Let me end this relationship,’” Sharoni says. “It’s not an on-and-off switch.”

That’s because long-term duos have years of shared history and life experiences to take into consideration. Maybe they were there for each other during the death of a parent or child, a serious health scare, or sudden financial challenges, Sharoni says. “When you go through the relationship having supported each other in so many different ways, the infidelity doesn’t always automatically negate that.”

2. You rely on each other financially

Similarly, the practical circumstances of a long-term relationship — such as being financially tied to each other — can make the decision on whether or not to forgive a cheating partner incredibly complex. “I work with a lot of couples who’ve decided to stay together because it would be very expensive to maintain separate housing, separate lives, and they’ve figured out a way to make the situation work,” Lisa Chen, LMFT, a Los Angeles–based couples therapist.

On top of that, other money-related realities like shared debt, childcare costs, or relying on a partner’s health insurance can play a meaningful role in explaining why a person may be tempted to stay.

3. They came forward on their own

While it doesn’t suddenly erase the betrayal, an unprompted confession can make it easier to believe they won’t do it again, Patrice Le Goy, PhD, LMFT, a Los Angeles–based couples therapist.

“What I’ve noticed while working with people dealing with infidelity is that they’re often more inclined to forgive if they receive a genuine apology,” Dr. Le Goy explains. That’s because coming forward voluntarily — rather than being caught — can show that your partner is willing to take responsibility, even when they don’t technically have to. And that transparency early on, she says, can be a good first step in rebuilding the trust that’s essential for any successful relationship.

4. You need to free yourself from the resentment and pain

A common misconception is that forgiveness automatically means getting back together—which, Chen notes, isn’t always the case. For some people, letting bygones be bygones isn’t about excusing the behaviour or even saving the relationship: It’s about freeing themselves from resentment for the sake of their own wellbeing.

Secret Santa Gifts for the Hair & Beauty Lover – OLAPLEX Inc.

0

Key Takeaways

  • OLAPLEX® gifts are practical and luxurious, combining daily usability with salon-quality results.
  • There are gifts for every beauty lover – from fine hair to bold brows, there’s an option to match anyone’s self-care ritual.
  • Secret Santa is made simple when you are able to choose from a variety of hair masks, serums, and kits for universally loved beauty gifts.

The holiday season is filled with festivities and cheer, sparkling lights, and of course, lots of gift giving, which sometimes includes a Secret Santa exchange. Choosing the right gift for your Secret Santa can feel daunting, but for the hair and beauty enthusiast in your life, OLAPLEX® has got you covered. From indulgent treatments to everyday essentials, these science-backed solutions make it easy to gift a thoughtful, luxurious present that anyone would be thrilled to unwrap this holiday season.

Transformative Hair Masks

Few things say self-care like a hair mask. For the friend who loves to pamper themselves, a mask is the kind of gift that feels lavish while also giving them amazing restorative benefits to their hair. The Weightless Nourishing Mask® is perfect for finer hair types, offering hydration after 5 washes* without the extra heaviness and 2x instant, all-day volume. It immediately boosts shine, reduces breakage, and helps prevent snapping wash after wash to support length retention over time.

If your Secret Santa has thicker or a more medium to course hair texture, the Rich Hydration Mask® makes a thoughtful choice. This deeply restorative mask is formulated with Biomimetic Cuticle Technology to lock in intense hydration and strength, sealing hair cuticles to up to 5 washes to prevent moisture loss.

Both masks use OLAPLEX®’s bond-building technology to repair hair at the molecular level, making them the ultimate blend of luxury and long-term care.

Elevated Lash & Brow Care

Secret Santa gifts often fall into two categories: practical or playful. But nothing delights more than something truly unexpected. For the beauty enthusiast, the LashBond™ Building Serum is just that gift. Instead of another mascara, this serum works behind the scenes to support lashes that look longer, thicker, and more dense.

If brows are more their obsession the BrowBond™ Building Serum is the perfect match. It works to condition and strengthen the delicate hairs, encouraging fuller-looking brows in as little as 4 weeks, and for optimal results, it is recommended that the serum be used in the AM & PM on clean, dry skin. For a complete routine that they are sure to love, gift both the LashBond® and the BrowBond™ Serum to your Secret Santa.

Gift Sets for Every Beauty Lover

Sometimes choosing just one product feels impossible. That’s where OLAPLEX®’s array of Value Sets come in handy. With curated selections of fan favorites, each kit delivers a full routine in one beautifully packaged set.

From Biggest Bestsellers that come with a cute OLAPLEX® tote, to the Hair Repair Treatment Kit, to the Iconic Shine Set, there’s something for everyone. Kits can also be gifted as a whole or split up into multiple smaller presents, a Secret Santa hack that ensures everyone gets a little something extraordinary.

Choosing OLAPLEX for Your Secret Santa Beauty Gifts

Secret Santa gifting doesn’t have to be predictable. With OLAPLEX®, you can give the gift of confidence, indulgence, and self-care all wrapped up in one. From transformative hair masks to lash and brow help, and kits designed to delight any beauty icon, these presents make holiday gifting effortless and unforgettable.

*On virgin hair tresses

FRUGAL CITY GUIDE: LIVERPOOL

0

Never before have we been to a city and had a more positive reaction than with Liverpool. It’s a city in everyone’s hearts and we can totally see why. Thankfully, the sun was shining for our two nights in the city but with so many great, affordable restaurants, brilliant shopping and museums and galleries to visit it’s clear we would’ve have a great time regardless (and we will definitely be back!).

HOW TO GET THERE

We travelled by train into Liverpool Lime Street (roughly 2.5 hours from London) and we were immediately in the centre of the city. It was quicker, really easy and can be affordable if booked far enough in advance.

WHERE TO STAY

We were hosted at Hope Street Hotel which was gorgeous and for a short boutique minibreak we can highly recommend. THE comfiest bed and huge bathtub, we were so sorry to leave! I loved the minimal but cosy aesthetic and rooms start from £89 a night.

Other places to stay that come recommended are Baltic Hotel and Lock & Key boutique hotel and if you wanted to mix up a beach visit, we have been wanting to stay at Aberley House on Crosby Beach for ages (we had it booked a few months ago but sadly couldn’t make it!).

WHAT TO DO

We found there were lots of lovely ‘pockets’ to the city so we walked around the Georgian quarter, the docks and the Baltic Quarter. There are great murals around the city too (including the Jurgen Klopp mural (a ‘must-visit’ for Chris!) and the infamous ‘The Liverpool Wings’ by Paul Curtis). We grabbed a coffee at Bold Street coffee and took in all the shops (Bold Street reminded us of Neal Street, Covent Garden with a lovely mix of eco stores, independent boutiques, vintage stores and a sprinkling of (cooler) chain restaurants like Pho, Honest and Bundobust) and as expected, everyone was so friendly and welcoming.

Liverpool is such a cultural city, so a gallery visit is a must. We fell in love with the Walker Art Gallery (free admission and opposite Liverpool Lime Street station) and loved the mix of pre-Raphaelite paintings (Albert Moore, Rosetti and JW Waterhouse) mixed with more modern works such as Lucian Freud and iconic works by Lowry.

We worked with The Walker Art Gallery whist in Liverpool but this is an editorial post.

Tate Liverpool is also a big pull, on the Royal Albert Dock (which is a great place to walk around anyway: lots of shops nearby – MerseyMade sells art and gifts by local creators and artists – as well as tons of restaurants) but we chose to visit the Museum of Liverpool (in the same area) as the building looked too good not to enter and we’d heard great things!

We absolutely loved it, it’s kind of an homage to the resilience of Liverpudlians – the history, adversity, the music scene, the sport, the talent, the community. It was really interactive (amazing for kids as well as adults) and they have Little Liverpool which is imaginative and educational play for under 6’s – it’s ticketed but free (we will 100% be bringing our kids back for this!).

Sefton Parkjust a bus ride (or you can rent an electric scooter!) away, is a beautiful park and you can visit the Palm House whilst there (it’s free but you can also donate, plus there’s a gorgeous cafe inside). And the best bit: Lark Lane is a buzzing street filled with independent shops and restaurants just up the road – perfect spot for lunch, a pint or just a coffee and meander around the independent stores and vintage shops (we stopped at Doogles for a coffee and donut).

WHERE TO EAT

We had a LOT of good food here, and most eateries were relaxed and affordably priced which we loved even more! For pasta and pizza, Buyers Club was excellent (and in January there were offering 50% off pizza and pasta Mon-Thurs). We were recommended ‘Mary’ by so many and it didn’t disappoint (order the Disco cauliflower) – there are a few branches across Liverpool and they also offer an excellent vegan menu.

For fancy cocktails, we met a friend in Little Cafe Du Coin and as a local, she recommended Madre for dinner (to be frank: my pal Amy pretty much drew us an itinerary for this City Guide!) which we loved and found it affordable (dinner for two – with one alcoholic drink – was £32 including tip).

Other recommendations include: Rudy’s Pizza (we had this in Manchester – delicious), Vietnamese, Slim’s Gourmet Diner, Queens bistro (just round the corner from The Cavern!) and Mowgli.

If that doesn’t make you fancy a city break, then I’m not sure what does. We loved Liverpool and can’t wait to go back.