Home Blog Page 229

Why Naturopath-Approved Skincare Matters for Your Skin – Merindah Botanicals

Admin
-
0
Why Naturopath-Approved Skincare Matters for Your Skin – Merindah Botanicals

When it comes to skincare, natural doesn’t always mean effective—and not all “natural” products are created equal.

That’s why we’re proud to say that Merindah Botanicals is officially Naturopath-Approved.

But what does that actually mean for you?

What Does Naturopath-Approved Mean?

A Naturopath-Approved skincare range has been carefully reviewed by a qualified naturopath—someone who specialises in holistic health and natural formulations. It’s more than just a label; it’s a sign that our products are:

✔ Formulated with skin health in mind – Every ingredient is chosen for its ability to nourish, hydrate, and protect your skin naturally.

✔ Free from unnecessary additives – No harsh chemicals, artificial fragrances, or fillers—just pure, plant-based ingredients.

✔ Designed for real results – Our skincare isn’t just “natural”—it’s effective. It works in harmony with your skin to deliver lasting hydration, balance, and radiance.

What Naturopaths Are Saying About Merindah Botanicals

🌿 “Merindah Botanicals truly excels in delivering gentle, effective skincare without compromise. These products have not only addressed my own dry skin concerns but also provide a level of care and nourishment that I am proud to recommend to my clients.”
— Kate Driver, Naturopath & Women’s Health Coach

🌿 “As someone with sensitive skin, I am often cautious when trying new products. However, Merindah Botanicals’ range soothed my skin without causing irritation, and I noticed significant hydration after use.”
— Yoshimi Hofmann, BHSc (Nat), Yoshimi Oneness Naturopath

🌿 “As a naturopath, I am highly selective about the skincare products I use and recommend. It’s essential that they are 100% natural, free from harsh chemicals, and genuinely beneficial for skin health. Merindah Botanicals ticks all those boxes with its gentle yet effective formulations.”
— Aphrodite Livanes, Naturopath & Clinical Nutritionist

Why This Matters for You

So many skincare brands call themselves “natural,” but without regulation, that word means very little. With Naturopath Approval, you can trust that:

🌿 You’re using products backed by holistic health practitioners.
🌿 Your skin is getting high-quality, safe, and nourishing ingredients.
🌿 You don’t have to second-guess what’s inside your skincare.

We believe skincare should support your skin’s natural health—not just provide a temporary fix. This approval reinforces what we’ve always stood for: pure, results-driven skincare that’s good for you, inside and out.

Experience Naturopath-Approved Skincare

Looking for skincare that nurtures, protects, and enhances your skin—without compromise?

👉 Discover the Merindah Botanicals range here

Bicarb, Magnesium and the Quest for the Perfect Pit Formula

Admin
-
0
Bicarb, Magnesium and the Quest for the Perfect Pit Formula

”
style=”;”
/>

If you read our last blog, you’ll know we’ve been busy behind the scenes giving our whole natural deodorant range (both the sticks and pastes) a huuuuge makeover.

What started as a bit of an ingredient shortage crisis turned into the biggest formula refresh in Woohoo history (and yes, we’re still feeling pretty smug about it 😉).

But there’s one update we only touched on briefly and it’s kind of a big deal.

We’re talking about our clever new combo of bicarb + ultra-fine, 100% natural magnesium in our Regular Strength formulas.

The old Regular Strength was basically Extra Strength’s laid-back little sibling (same formula, just with less bicarb). It worked, but we knew we could do better.

We wanted to make it even *gentler* without sacrificing any of the *effectiveness*. And that’s where magnesium stepped up to the plate.

So Aaron went back to the lab and whipped up something very special.

A total ripper of a formula, if we do say so ourselves.

Let’s get into how two smart ingredient tweaks helped us create our best-ever Regular Strength deodorants (yep, sticks AND pastes!).

First: What even causes body odour?

Quick refresher: BO doesn’t come from sweat itself (sweat is odourless).

The stink happens when bacteria on your skin break down the compounds in your sweat into fatty acids and sulphur-y molecules. That’s when things start to get funky.

So when we talk deodorant, we’re talking bacteria management, not just masking smells.

The Bicarb Breakdown

Sodium bicarbonate (a.k.a. bicarb) is a natural, incredibly effective BO-fighter. It works by raising the pH of your underarms, creating an environment that’s less friendly to smelly bacteria.

Less bacteria = less stink.

But here’s the thing: bicarb can be a little bossy.

In higher concentrations, it can:

  • Disrupt your skin’s barrier
  • Cause redness or irritation (especially post-shave)
  • Feel a bit abrasive if the particle size isn’t just right

Which is why we decided to team it up with something a little more zen…

Magnesium: The Skin Whisperer

After much um-ing and ah-ing (read: endless research, testing and trialing) we upgraded our magnesium to a blend of 100% natural magnesium hydroxide and magnesium chloride sourced from the sea (fancy, we know).

While our old magnesium hydroxide worked just fine, this new form of magnesium is next-level, proven to provide long-lasting BO protection.

It’s better than bicarb soda for keeping your skin barrier happy and balanced, banishing bacteria but in a softer, gentler way. It even helps regulate moisture and reduce irritation.

If your pits could clap, they would!

Woohoo Natural Deodorant & Anti-Chafe Stick (Urban) 60g – NEW FORMULA

SHOP NOW


Woohoo Natural Deodorant & Anti-Chafe Stick (Surf) 60g – NEW FORMULA

SHOP NOW

So why use both bicarb and magnesium?

Because together, they’re a dream team.

We knew bicarb packs a punch when it comes to controlling odour (especially for moderate-to-heavy sweaters).

And we knew magnesium could make things gentler, smoother and more skin-loving.

So instead of making you choose, we built a hybrid Regular Strength that plays to both their strengths:

  • Less bicarb to lower the chance of irritation
  • Magnesium to maintain long lasting BO protection
  • A creamier texture for a softer, smoother application

The result? A highly effective, gosh-darn-awesome Regular Strength natural deodorant

We reworked our Regular Strength Natural Deodorants – sticks and pastes – not because we had to (they still worked brilliantly), but because we knew we could do better.

Now when you reach for Urban or Surfyou’re getting a formula that’s:

  • Less irritating
  • Smoother to apply
  • Incredibly effective
  • And suitable for a whole lot more pit types

They also happen to make ahhhmazing Anti-Chafe Sticks. Swipe them under boobs, between thighs or anywhere you need a little less rub and a little more love.

As always, we’ll keep learning, testing, tinkering and nerding out on your behalf, because we think your daily deodorant routine should make you feel like a fresher-than-fresh superhero 🙂

We hope you love your new Regular Strength natural deodorant formulas!!!

P.S. If your skin is super sensitive, you might want to check out our Bicarb-Free range here.

Woohoo All Natural Deodorant Paste (Urban) 60g – NEW FORMULA

SHOP NOW

Woohoo All Natural Deodorant Paste (Surf) 60g – NEW FORMULA

SHOP NOW

LuxExperience Q1 FY26: Mytheresa Leads Growth as Group Begins Post-YNAP Reset

Admin
-
0
LuxExperience Q1 FY26: Mytheresa Leads Growth as Group Begins Post-YNAP Reset

THE WHAT? LuxExperience reported Q1 FY26 results showing strong momentum at Mytheresa and early restructuring progress across NET-A-PORTER, MR PORTER and YOOX.

THE DETAILS 4.2% to €557.2 million, reflecting the initial impact of the company’s transformation programme. Mytheresa delivered +13.5% GMV and +12.2% Net Sales growth, with Adjusted EBITDA more than doubling to €7.9 million and margin rising to 3.5%.

NET-A-PORTER and MR PORTER saw GMV drop 10.8%, but gross margin improved (47.8%) and SG&A fell, signalling early progress in the turnaround plan. YOOX continued its expected decline (-19.3% GMV) as the off-price unit focuses on core operations, though margins improved as costs were reduced. The group also agreed to sell the assets powering THE OUTNET, due to close in Q1 CY26, allowing LuxExperience to centralise off-price around YOOX.

US shoppers accounted for 31.6% of Net Sales. Updated FY26 guidance forecasts €2.4–€2.7 billion GMV and an Adjusted EBITDA margin between -2% and +1%.

THE WHY? The quarter underscores Mytheresa’s role as the group’s growth engine while LuxExperience works to streamline operations and stabilise performance following the YNAP acquisition.

Source: Businesswire

Nette NYC Coco Fleur Eau de Parfum Review

Admin
-
0
Nette NYC Coco Fleur Eau de Parfum Review

*Links marked with asterisks are affiliate links, these help Ree with running costs of the blog

Prices start at

Nette NYC Coco Fleur Eau de Parfum Review

Nette NYC Coco Fleur Eau de Parfum is a shining example of everything Nette stands for: elegance, sincerity, and a refined simplicity. I am thrilled to see that Nette NYC has just officially landed in the UK at Space NK. For those of us who love to discover new, heart‑driven perfumery, this is big news.

About Nette: The Brand & The Founder

Neat NYC was founded in 2021 by Carol Han Pylea second‑generation candle maker whose childhood memories are steeped in scent. Carol grew up in her mother’s San Francisco candle shop, watching her mother hand‑dip and carve fragrant candles. Those early experiences clearly shaped her path.

Her journey is really inspiring. After working in fashion and social media in New York, she felt the pull of her childhood passion during the pandemic and decided to bring Nette to life.

Carol wanted an honest fragrance house, with transparent ingredients and real craftsmanship. Their mission is reflected in their NEAT‑Effect™which uses neuroscience and AI to measure how their scents boost emotions like confidence and mindfulness.

Introducing Nette NYC Coco Fleur: The Fragrance Story

Inspiration & Intent

Coco Fleur is inspired by an evening wedding in Mexico City. It’s all about that idea of golden skin, warm air, and flowers under the stars in a super fresh and clean way, and I absolutely love it. It’s designed not just to smell good, but to evoke confidence and mindfulness

Nette NYC Coco Fleur Eau de Parfum Review
Nette NYC Coco Fleur Eau de Parfum Review

Notes Breakdown

  • Top Notes: Bergamot Oil, Pink Pepper
  • Heart Notes: Ylang-Ylang, Orange Flower Absolute
  • Base Notes: Ambrette Absolute, Coconut Milk, Sandalwood

In-Depth Review: My Thoughts on Wearing Coco Fleur

Scent & Vibe

Nette NYC Coco Fleur feels like sun-bleached petals carried on a warm breeze. There’s a beachy quality. The coconut milk and sandalwood evoke a seaside memory but it’s never too “suntan oil” or coconut-fake. Instead, it stays elegant and grounded.

What’s lovely is how the freshness of bergamot and pink pepper gives that sparkling, effervescent opening, then softens into creamy florals, and finally settles into a warm, gentle base. That balance means it’s not just a summer scent. It absolutely works in winter and I have been spritzing this since I got it this week.

Longevity & Wearability

The fragrance has a subtle but enduring sillage. It’s intimate rather than overpowering, which makes it ideal for day wear or the office, yet it’s polished enough to still feel luxe.

The Bottle & Presentation

Nette NYC Coco Fleur Eau de Parfum bottle design
Nette NYC Coco Fleur Eau de Parfum bottle design

The bottle is a design moment: glass with negative space inside, so when you look through it you see the liquid as if it’s floating. The black cap is heavy and sculptural.

Nette NYC Coco Fleur Eau de Parfum packaging
Nette NYC Coco Fleur Eau de Parfum packaging

Emotional Impact

There’s something quietly uplifting about Coco Fleur. It leans into Nette’s “smell good, feel good” philosophy. It’s not just pretty, it’s designed to calm and ground you, or to give you a gentle confidence boost.

Who Is Nette NYC Coco Fleur For?

  • Someone who loves luxury florals, but doesn’t want anything too sweet or gourmand
  • Perfume lovers who want something wearable all year round. It bridges sunlit moments and cool, crisp days.

Final Thoughts & Recommendation

Nette NYC Coco Fleur is a beautifully polished and multi-dimensional fragrance. It is super wearable and perfect if you like something uplifting and fresh with that real clean feeling. Coco Fleur has me hooked – creamy petals, soft sunlight, a fresh beachy lift. Effortlessly sunny yet perfect for winter.

If you’re curious about Nette and love fragrances that tell stories, Coco Fleur is absolutely one to try.

Where to buy it

Nette NYC Coco Fleur is £25 for 10ml and £97 for 50ml. It’s available now via the link below:

If you’re looking to discover more new fragrances, you will be pleased to know that Space NK’s fragrance advent is still in stock. For the lowdown on that read: Space NK Fragrance Advent Calendar 2025 Review.

Latto Apple Bottom Collection Is Here Have You Seen It

Admin
-
0
Latto Apple Bottom Collection Is Here Have You Seen It

By: Mel M

Latto apple bottom collection

If you haven’t noticed, the Latto Apple Bottom Collection is officially out and it is giving all the vibes we didn’t know we needed. Imagine the iconic Apple Bottoms silhouettes meeting Latto’s bold, unapologetic style — yeah, it’s as good as it sounds. This collab is basically a love letter to confident, fun, and street-savvy fashion lovers everywhere.

So here’s the scoop. Latto has always been about empowering people to express themselves without holding back, and Apple Bottoms is all about celebrating curves and classic urban style. When you mix those two forces, you get pieces that are both wearable and statement-making. Think hoodies, jeans, crop tops, and even some playful accessories that scream personality.

Latto Apple Bottom Collection
Photo Credit: IG @Latto

The best part? It’s not just about looking cute (although that’s guaranteed). Each piece seems designed with real people in mind. Comfort meets trend, and every outfit makes you feel like you could step into a music video at any moment. You know that feeling when a song drops and it just hits differently? That’s exactly what this collection feels like on your wardrobe.

And let’s talk versatility. You can rock a bold Latto Apple Bottoms hoodie with your favorite jeans and sneakers for a casual street look, or switch it up with a skirt and heels for a night out. These pieces aren’t just for fans of the rapper or the brand, they’re for anyone who loves fun, confidence-infused fashion.

– ADVERTISEMENT –

IMG 5030
IMG 5031

The color palette is also giving major vibes. Think vibrant tones, classic neutrals, and unexpected pops of pattern. Apple Bottoms’ signature appeal meets Latto’s fearless flair, creating outfits that are basically made for selfies, brunches, concerts, or just lounging in style.

Honestly, if you’re still on the fence, this is one of those collabs that makes you want to go all in. Whether you’ve been a fan of Latto since her early tracks or you’re new to the scene, there’s something here that will make you smile the moment you see it. And yes, this is the perfect excuse to update your wardrobe with pieces that feel fresh, confident, and unapologetically fun.

The Latto Apple Bottom Collection is more than just a collaboration; it’s a mood. A vibe. A reminder that fashion can be playful, bold, and totally you. So, have you checked it out yet? Because missing this one would be a serious FOMO moment.

A model poses on a leopard-print chaise lounge wearing a red off-the-shoulder top and low-rise jeans with 'Apple Bottom' embroidery on the back, complemented by matching high-heeled shoes.
Photo Credit: IG @Latto

Affordable Fall Clothing – Lindsey Regan Thorne

Admin
-
0
Affordable Fall Clothing – Lindsey Regan Thorne

I’m excited to partner with Walmart to share some fall fashion finds at Everyday Low Prices! You wont believe the price-point on some of these pieces like this quilted vest (available in mustard and this olive green), the lining is SO FUN and less than $40! Perfect with jeans or leggings!

I also love this cable knit sweater which also comes in several colors ($34) it’s so flattering on and could look adorable with jeans, skirts or over a maxi dress.

Let’s dive into some of the items I purchased!

*This post is in partnership with Walmart*

My Sweater | My Hat | My Necklace

Henry Sweatpants | Henry T-shirt | Henry Shirt

Olive Dress | Olive Shoes

Jeans | Collar Shirt | Quilted Vest | Necklace | Hat

Henry Sweatpants | Henry T-shirt | Henry Shirt

Olive Dress | Olive Shoes


My Sweater | My Hat | My Necklace | Jeans

My Sweater | My Hat | My Necklace

Henry Sweatpants | Henry T-shirt | Henry Shirt

Olive Dress | Olive Shoes

Jeans | Collar Shirt | Necklace | Hat | Sweater

Shop the Post


What Is A Holistic Lifestyle

Admin
-
0
What Is A Holistic Lifestyle

I lean on progress, not perfection, when it comes to my holistic lifestyle.

Healthy living is a catchphrase for so many versions of nutrition, fitness, and lifestyles that it requires further explanation. In my opinion, a holistic lifestyle is a more accurate description of overall wellness and the version of healthy living I want.

It’s easy to get caught up in the latest healthy diet or fitness trend and in the process get out of balance and out of a state of wellness. Oh the stories I could tell of the many times I’ve fallen victim to this. That’s why in today’s post, I’m breaking down how to take a holistic approach to health.

*Affiliate Disclosure: I do have affiliate links in this blog post. If you purchase something from my link, I will receive a small commission from the sale.  This comes at no cost to you, but is paid by the company.  I do not take becoming an affiliate with any company lightly.  If I am, it’s because I believe in the company and their product.

*Suzi(Gurl Gone Green) is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com.

What Is A Holistic Lifestyle

A holistic lifestyle is an umbrella term for a state of wellbeing in every area of life. Our physical health cannot be separated from our mind and spirit – physical, mental, emotional, and social health even our environment are all interconnected.

Living holistically is really a proactive approach to health instead of a reactive approach. It is choosing a lifestyle that supports healthy habits and wellbeing in our physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual health.

A holistic lifestyle includes so much more than just your physical health!

What Are the Benefits of a Holistic Lifestyle

While there are many benefits of holistic living, these are some of the main pillars as it relates to health and wellness.

1. Physical Health

  • Improvement in energy, vitality, and natural resilience.
  • A reduced risk of chronic illnesses because of being proactive vs reactive, prevention vs treatment.

2. Mental and Emotional Health

  • Less stress and anxiety.
  • Better coping abilities.
  • Improved focus and productivity.

3. Spiritual Health

  • A sense of purpose and meaning in life.
  • A sense of peace from alignment of faith and values.

4. Healthy Relationships

  • Fulfillment from doing life with other people.
  • A sense of belonging and community.

5. Environmental and Lifestyle Health

  • Reduced toxin exposure
  • Sustainable products support personal health and the planet.
  • Peaceful spaces and intentional living inspire creativity.
fruit, vegetables and nuts
At the core of my holistic lifestyle is the food I choose to feed myself and my family.

How to Live A Holistic Lifestyle

1. Eat Real Whole Foods

  • Eat whole, nutrient-dense foods such as organic meat, fruits, vegetables, sprouted grains, healthy fats.
  • Stay away from ultra processed foods, artificial sweeteners, seed oils and limit sugar intake.
  • Drink filtered water and add a pinch of good sea salt (I like Redmond Real Salt) to support hydration especially during high heat days or extra sweaty days! If you want to supplement with an electrolyte, check out my favorites here. Prioritize consistent, restorative sleep.

2. Move Your Body

3. Cultivate Mental and Emotional Health

  • Make time for hobbies or develop some hobbies that bring you joy.
  • Create mental space for reflection and practice journaling to process thoughts and emotions.
  • Limit screen time. Unfollow people on social media if necessary.
  • Practice mindfulness. Breathwork can help anchor you to the present moment.
  • Seek therapy, coaching, or trusted support when needed.

4. Strengthen Spiritual Health

  • Spend time in prayer or reflection.
  • As cliche as it sounds, practice gratitude. Every morning or night write down a list of things you’re grateful for or share with family around the dinner table.
  • Live your life in accordance with your values and purpose.

5. Develop Healthy Relationships

  • Be intentional about connecting with family and friends and when with said family and friends – be present!
  • Set boundaries when necessary to support the wellbeing of you or your family.
  • Surround yourself with encouraging, supportive people.
flowers in a grassy field
Whether it be morning sunlight on my eyes or grass at my feet, I love being outside and including things like this in my daily routine.

6. Live With Nature In Mind

  • Use natural, sustainable, non-toxic household and personal care products. If you are looking for a made for you guide to all things non toxic living, check out my full Natural Living Guide here.
  • Reduce clutter at home to foster an environment of peace.
  • Spend time outdoors in nature (preferably without a cellphone, if possible).

7. Create Daily Routines

  • Create a morning routine that prepares you to slay the day. I like to read my Bible, pray, and envision how I want my day to go as I do my red light therapy. If you are wondering about red light therapy and why I included it in my morning routine, check out all the details here!
  • Create an evening routine that prepares you for sleep. I like to shut down electronic devices an hour or so before I go to bed. This gives me time to read or even converse with my husband.
  • Create family routines because everyone thrives when there are systems in place and everyone knows what to expect in a day. This has been key to keeping everyone on track in my household.
  • Take at least one full day off from work each week.

Did I miss anything that you include in your holistic lifestyle? Share below!

If you liked this post, check out these past posts:

Clarins Total Eye Lift Review: Is the Update Better?

Admin
-
0
Clarins Total Eye Lift Review: Is the Update Better?

When Clarins sent over the updated Total Eye LiftI had no idea the formula had been tweaked. It was only four years ago that I wrote a dedicated post during the launch. I enjoyed it then and would never have pegged it for an update. Yet here we are. Did it need to change? I wasn’t expecting it to, and the update honestly threw me a bit. So, where’s the good, the bad, and the brutally honest on this next chapter in Clarins eye care?

Clarins new Total Eye Lift formula reviewed.

What is Total Eye Lift

Little known fact: Clarins is the brand that got me hooked on eye cream when I was twenty-one. I adored their Extra-Firming Eye Contour Cream and would save up for it diligently. Two and a half decades later, I am still a loyalist of the area-specific step. I am a full-on believer in eye creams because of Clarins.

The Positioning

This is the most advanced eye care formula within the Clarins lineup. If you know the brand’s ranges, the red packaging has always been aimed at more mature skin types. As if the word “lift” wasn’t suggestive enough. The formula promises to help with fine lines, puffiness, and overall smoothness for “a visible eye lift in 30 seconds.” That is quite a promise.

Clarins new eye cream review.

What’s in the New Clarins Eye Cream

After going through the previous and current INCI lists side by side, the updated Total Eye Lift is a clear improvement. It keeps all the key de-puffing and firming components but noticeably amplifies soothing, antioxidant, and barrier-supportive ingredients.

What’s Changed

First, let’s confirm what stayed the same. The four main actives are still caffeine, escin, harungana extract, and Acetyl Tetrapeptide-2.

What sets the new version apart is the addition of oat kernel extract for soothing, Hydroxyacetophenone for antioxidant support, Marrubium Vulgare Extract for anti-inflammation, and a trio of algae-derived polysaccharides for hydration and a smoother feel.

Clarins Total Eye Lift cream texture on skin.

Texture and User Experience

The updated formula feels lighter. The original had a whipped creaminess, while the new version behaves more like a lotion. The slip is more elegant, it glides easily, and it absorbs quickly without pilling. Most important, it feels instantly comforting on the delicate skin around the eyes.

Clarins Total Eye Lift packaging is awful.

Now for the part that makes my blood pressure spike. The packaging is awful. The whole refillable concept feels more gimmicky than helpful, and I am not convinced this is the environmental win it claims to be. After plugging the inner cartridge into the main component, I pumped no less than 34,597 times to prime the bottle. I nearly launched it across the room. I am also mystified how this design will not auto-dispense during transit in a travel bag.

Does It Really Lift

In thirty seconds? No. This is a marketing claim that must be taken with a grain of salt. If it worked as literally as advertised, every Upper East Side plastic surgeon would be out of business. And we all know the influencers used in certain paid ads would say yes to a folding chair if the rate was right. The product is not responsible for their appearance. The only thing lifted is your hope.

What we are actually seeking is the appearance of a lift. If your eye area looks rested, moisturized, and bright, the effect is already there. Clarins makes excellent products and this eye cream is great, but it is not an eye lift in a bottle. Please be reasonable.

A quick word on user reviews.

If you check the Clarins website, the feedback for Total Eye Lift looks overwhelmingly positive, but keep in mind those reviews are not starting from scratch. Clarins bundled all the comments from the previous formula into the listing for the updated version, which makes the overall rating feel a bit skewed. It’s not exactly fair, considering the new formula behaves differently in texture, feel, and performance. If you’re scanning reviews for clues on what to expect, know that many of them refer to an eye cream that no longer exists in that form.

Yay or Nay

Yay. Total Eye Lift is a genuinely solid eye cream and I am enjoying it. I cannot say the same for many of the cleansers Clarins has reformulated recently or for the once-legendary Beauty Flash Balm. If you want more suggestions from the brand, the Double Serum continues to impress, both in formula and delivery system. For body care, the roll-on deodorant and the hand cream remain fantastic.

$95 (15ml) available at clarins.com and sephora.com

Clarins Total Eye Lift ingredient list.

Affiliate disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you choose to shop through them, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting my work and my product testing habit.

Brown Smoky Eye Tutorial: How to Get the Look

Admin
-
0
Brown Smoky Eye Tutorial: How to Get the Look

Softer styles are taking the spotlight again, from the return of soft glam and nude lips to the rise of the brown smoky eye. As celebrity makeup artist Brandy Allen explains, layering shades of brown creates depth without the harshness. Still, the technique can be tricky. Ahead, Allen and fellow celebrity makeup artist Sean Harris break down the ins and outs of the brown smoky eye, including how to execute it like a pro

Featured Experts

Brown vs. Black

It’s no secret that brown is having a moment right now, especially in eye makeup. The hue has the unique ability to create a bold, alluring effect while remaining soft, making it the best of both worlds, says Allen. “In terms of a smoky eye, brown delivers the sultriness of a classic smoky eye, but is much more wearable,” she says. The shade is also far more forgiving than black—whether you’re working with nude or chocolate-toned shadows, you don’t have to worry as much about placement or blending.

Harris agrees, noting that brown shadows offer depth without the extra work. “The softness of the color is perfect for sculpting the eyes and accentuating their shape. It also allows the lashes to pop against the skin, where they can easily get lost in a traditional carbon black look,” he says.

One of the biggest advantages of a brown smoky eye is its versatility. Whether you prefer a subtle nude wash or a more expressive espresso or mocha moment, the look is universally flattering. “Warm brown tones blend seamlessly into the skin’s natural undertones and give a lit-from-within kind of softness rather than stark contrast,” says Allen. A brown smoky eye can also transition seamlessly from day to night, depending on how you choose to wear it.

How to Create a Brown Smoky Eye

Creating the perfect smoky eye is all about balance. Too much product can look heavy, while overblending can wash everything out. The key to a stunning brown smoky eye starts with the right shades and a solid base. “You’ll need 2-3 colors: a soft brown, mid-tone and richer shade,” says Harris. Using an eyeshadow palette with buildable shadows is a good place to start. Allen adds that an eyeshadow base enhances color and helps the look last.

Once your base is prepped, applying each shade with the proper brush is essential. “Begin by gently sweeping the medium brown across the lid with a medium brush, then add the richer tone to the crease and outer corner with the same light nature,” she says. As the colors get deeper, you can swap out your fluffy brush for a smaller style to define the shape and keep it from becoming messy.

Adding a darker shade to the crease and outer V intensifies the smoky effect. “Your deepest tone should be along your lash line and gently into the crease to create a gradient, while the middle shade will help to create a nice transition,” says Harris.

After placing all the shadows, reach for a clean brush to soften harsh edges and refine the overall blend. “Blending is the key to this look, so you want to keep the edges clean and the final look soft,” says Allen. To finish, she suggests opting for a dark brown liner—think espresso or mocha. A creamy formula is ideal, since it can be lightly smudged along the lash line to level up the smoky effect.

Matte vs. Shimmer

Smoky eye makeup is often synonymous with a matte finish. While matte formulas do help create a soft glam effect, they’re not the only option. According to Allen, subtle layers of shimmer can transform a brown smoky eye into something elevated. A light champagne or soft bronze under the brow bone and in the inner corner can open the eyes and keep the look bright rather than heavy.

However, she cautions against going overboard with glittery or metallic shadows. “If you’re opting for a shimmery smoky eye, keep it mostly on the lid. When placed in the crease or lower lash line, it can drag the look down and create an unintended “tired-eye” effect.

Best Products for a Brown Smoky Eye

Makeup by Mario
Master Mattes Eyeshadow Palette: The Original

Kiss New York Shadow Palette
Kiss New York
Shadow Palette: Make Me Nude

Ritual de Fille Celestial Sphere Jelly Eye Gloss
Girl’s Ritual
Celestial Sphere Gelée Eye Gloss

What Is Fibermaxxing? Here’s What Experts Think of the Growing Trend

Admin
-
0
What Is Fibermaxxing? Here’s What Experts Think of the Growing Trend

For years, protein has been the hyperfixation of the wellness industry writ large—but there are signs that the tide may be turning. In recent months, a new trend known as fibermaxxing has thrust the titular nutrient into the spotlight, a refreshing change of pace for the experts SELF spoke to. “It’s great that people are paying a little bit more attention to their fiber intake because it’s really important for our gut health,” Janice Dada, MPH, RDN, a certified intuitive eating counselor based in California, tells SELF.

But to reduce fiber to its gut health effects underestimates the power of the nutrient. Sure, it may be best known for helping you go to the bathroom, but it wears many other hats, aiding in controlling blood sugar, managing weight, lowering harmful cholesterol, supporting immunity, preventing inflammation, and boosting cognitive performance, to name a few. What’s more, eating plenty of fiber also helps lower your risk of serious health conditions like type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and several types of cancer, including the colorectal variety, which is rising rapidly among young people. In short, there are many health reasons to prioritize fiber in your diet besides the pooping perks.

Given that SELF previously reported on the high-protein trend (and not in the most positive light), we decided it was only fair to turn the same critical eye on fibermaxxing. “I’m always cautious of these trends because they can be a bit extreme, [but] I do like the attention it’s brought to fiber,” Federica Amati, PhD, MPH, MSc, a medical scientist who serves as nutrition lead at Imperial College London and chief nutrition scientist at ZOE, tells SELF. Read on to learn why experts prefer the fiber focus to the protein panic—albeit with some significant reservations—and what you should keep in mind if you’re thinking about trying it yourself.

So…what exactly is fibermaxxing?

If you’re at all familiar with the Gen Z slang term maxxing, an abbreviation of maximizing, you can probably figure this one out pretty easily: Fibermaxxing refers to the practice of consuming as much fiber as possible for the perceived health benefits. If you mosey on over to TikTok, you’ll find fibermaxxing enthusiasts recommending high-fiber foods (like chia seeds, black beans, and raspberries), posting photos of their high-fiber meals (roasted salads seem to be particularly popular), and even sharing high-fiber recipes (the disgustingly named poop bread immediately springs to mind). Even coffee has been roped in, as one video of a creator scooping prebiotic fiber powder into her morning cup shows.

Many fibermaxxers cite increased “regularity”—a euphemism for pooping more often—as the primary reason to hop on the fiber train. Improved digestion may be only one of the many pros of a healthy fiber intake, but it seems to drive fibermaxxing’s entire existence. Dr. Amati believes fibermaxxing is a direct consequence of a growing interest in all things gut-related, especially since a large proportion of adults suffer from digestive issues like constipation and IBS. “When you have these kinds of symptoms every day, it does interfere with your life, so addressing gut health has become something people want to do for themselves because they know they can influence it with their diet,” she says.

1...228229230...287Page 229 of 287