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Sunscreen dosing. Teaspoons, shotglasses, and fingers…are we using too much?

Male Beauty

Admin

October 28, 2025

Sunscreen dosing. Teaspoons, shotglasses, and fingers…are we using too much?

Sunscreens and moisturizers with SPF are tested at a standardized density. That density is 2 milligrams of sunscreen per square centimeter of skin. If we want protection closer to what’s on the label, we should be using sunscreen or moisturizers with SPF at the density they’re tested at too.

Most of us don’t know the surface area of our skin and most of us don’t know the density of our sunscreens either. This has led to techniques and recommendations, like using 2 or 3 finger lengths of sunscreen, using 1/4 teaspoon of sunscreen, or applying our sunscreen twice. These techniques are all meant to encourage a more generous application of sunscreen, because when unprompted people tend to not apply enough.

With sunscreen, I think it is better to err on the side of applying too much rather than not enough. A higher density and thicker film of sunscreen generally means higher protection. It also makes sense to use more, because some of the sunscreen we apply will remain on our fingers, palms, or tools.

In some cases, I think these techniques might be leading people to use much more sunscreen than they might need. A sunscreen that might have been acceptable at a lower density might leave a strong cast, be too greasy, or pill (when a formula adheres to itself and rubs off the skin). This is especially relevant for people with deeper skin tones evaluating sunscreens for cast.

I’ve made a rough estimate of the surface area of my face, as well as the density (grams per millilitre) of two different sunscreens (IGTV: ‘How much sunscreen do you need?’). One is a cream and the other is a free-flowing milky texture. For both sunscreens, I need about 0.8 millilitres (mL) of sunscreen to get about the 2 milligrams of sunscreen per square centimeter of skin for my face. If I used a 1/4 teaspoon (1.23 mL), I’d be dispensing about half more than I need to protect my face.

With the cream sunscreen, applying 3 finger lengths of sunscreen dispensed about 3 mL of sunscreen. That’s almost 4 times more sunscreen than I might need. With the milk sunscreen, applying 3 finger lengths of sunscreen dispensed about 1.5 mL of sunscreen. That’s about 2 times more sunscreen than I might need. There’s also going to be differences in the thickness of our ‘lines’. That depends on things like how hard we squeeze, how slow we dispense, and the packaging.

If I apply the milky sunscreen with my palms and fingers the amount that ends up on my face might be close to the density I need. With 3 fingerlengths of the cream sunscreen, the finish is greasy and leaves a strong cast. The sunscreen is unusable for me with this much. But If I apply around 0.8 mL of the cream sunscreen, the finish is much nicer and I don’t notice a cast.

There’s no right or wrong method, they’re all just recommendations to encourage “proper” sunscreen use. Measuring your skin’s surface area, sunscreen density, and then each dose is going to be impractical for most people. But we might think about taking another look at sunscreens that may have been overused and left an unusable finish. They might not have at a density closer to the one it was tested at.

A photo showing 3 fingerlengths of a liquid, runny and milk appearing sunscreen. A photo showing those 3 fingerlengths of the milk appearing sunscreen collected in a syringe. It amounts to about 1.5 mL of sunscreen.

A photo showing 3 fingerlengths of a cream sunscreen. A photo showing those 3 fingerlengths of the cream sunscreen collected in a syringe. It amounts to about 3 mL of sunscreen.

One of the ways we can encourage use of sunscreen is modeling realistic use. Many people can’t stand wearing heavier coats of sunscreen, and that’s OK. Some sun protection is better that none.

On the opposite end, brands need to take responsibility for their marketing, and show actual and proper use – especially since they’re the ones testing it at the right density. A smidge might look nice in an advertisment, but we all know it’s not enough and misleading. In the US, sunscreens are drugs not cosmetics – brands need to respect that and stop playing around.

Cheers to @FiddySnails for popularizing the 2 and 3 finger methods. They work for her because her 3 finger-lengths are not as chonky as mine. As well, when using 3 finger-lengths she uses a cushion puff to apply – which is absorbing some of the sunscreen.

If they made 1/6th teaspoons, I’d be golden. You don’t need to overthink this like I did! Our first application of sunscreen doesn’t need to be “perfect” if we reapply throughout a very UV-exposed day. All these techniques, besides precise measurements, are just estimates or rules of thumb – so some common sense and adjustments are sometimes needed!

5 Benefits of Garshana Dry Body Brushing for Skin

Organic Beauty

Admin

October 28, 2025

5 Benefits of Garshana Dry Body Brushing for Skin

When it comes to skincare, many of us focus primarily on the face, but our body also deserves attention and care. After all, our skin is the largest organ, and it plays a crucial role in protecting us from harmful elements like bacteria, pollution, and the sun. Just as you nourish your face with specific products and routines, your body too can benefit from regular skincare love!

Any good skincare routine begins with some form of exfoliation. Removing dull, dead skin prior to applying treatments and moisturisers allows your leave-on products to actually absorb into the skin where their active ingredients can get to work. The same applies to the skin on your body.

While the thought of starting a whole new skincare routine for your body may seem time consuming, you’ll be relieved to learn that Garshana Dry Body Brushing can be completed in as little as 5 minutes per day and easily incorporated into your daily shower or bath routine.

What is Garshana Dry Body Brushing?

Garshana dry body brushing (pronounced gar-sha-nuh) originates from ancient India and the Ayurvedic tradition, where it was used widely as a cleansing and healing practice to detoxify the body. This Ayurvedic Dry Body Brushing practice involves using a dry, natural-bristle brush to gently exfoliate and massage the skin. It’s usually done in the morning before bathing, and it’s more than just a beauty treatment—it’s a full-body reset.

Along with pore cleansing and skin rejuvenation, Garshana Dry Body Brushing stimulates cellular regeneration, which leaves skin clearer, firmer and naturally glowing. When used consistently, the brush can give you a healthy, bright and smooth complexion. Deeper down, this method aids in increasing circulation and focus, relieving tension, and reducing puffiness, giving the body a feeling of warmth and vitality.

What are the Benefits of Dry Body Brushing?

Let’s take a closer look at the many benefits that Garshana Dry Body Brushing can bring to your skin and overall health.

1. Improves lymphatic drainage

Unlike our circulatory system, which flows on its own, our lymphatic system can easily become sluggish which is why regular exercise and daily Garshana dry body brushing can be so helpful. Because of the physical nature of Garshana, using firm, fluid strokes in the direction of your heart, works with your body’s natural flow of lymph and promotes improved detoxification.

When practised daily, Garshana dry body brushing is one of the best ways to improve lymphatic drainage and given that our lymphatic system is one of our body’s key channels of detoxification—it’s a practice with many rewards. As part of our immune system, our lymphatic system is a complex network of ducts, nodes and vessels that collects and circulates fluid—also known as ‘lymph’—through virtually all the tissues in our body. With three key functions—helping to maintain optimal fluid balance in the body, assisting with the absorption of fat in the intestines and supporting immune function by ensuring our lymph nodes effectively filter any viruses and bacteria that we come into contact with (as well as producing protective antibodies to help prevent disease and infection)—it’s clear that keeping this system running smoothly is of the utmost importance to our health and wellbeing.

2. Energises the body

Garshana dry body brushing is often picked up as a practice to help support healthy skin—but on a deeper level, the physicality of the practice itself helps to energise the body and promote warmth from head to toe. This is because with every brushstroke, you are helping to stimulate blood flow and increase circulation—moving energy through the body and further supporting detoxification channels.

According to Ayurveda, everything in the body is interconnected. By stimulating the skin, Garshana is believed to not only energise the body, but also support the digestive system. Over time, this practice may contribute to improved digestion, a more balanced metabolism, and overall bodily function—especially when combined with other Ayurvedic practices.

3. Improves skin tone & texture

It may sound obvious, but one of Garshana’s most appealing benefits is how it can improve skin tone and texture. The gentle yet firm bristles help to exfoliate the skin, clearing debris from pores and sloughing away dead skin cells whilst helping to stimulate blood flow and bring freshly oxygenated blood to the skin’s surface. As a result, skin is left visibly smoother, clearer and brighter!

Exfoliation is also key when it comes to encouraging collagen production. Collagen production naturally declines as we age, so incorporating daily Garshana brushing will not only smooth your skin from the outside – you’ll also be supporting collagen and elastin renewal underneath the surface.

4. Reduces puffiness

Garshana translated literally means “friction by rubbing”—and as explored above, is an excellent way of stimulating lymphatic drainage. This in turn helps to reduce puffiness by shifting and moving any excess fluid that has accumulated. Given many of us have fairly sedentary lifestyles, Garshana is one way to help stimulate movement in the body and ensure puffiness caused by fluid retention is reduced. Similarly, when firm strokes are used, dry body brushing can also help to break down fatty deposits beneath the skin, tightening the skin and reducing the appearance of cellulite and textured skin.

5. Eases stress

Often, the trouble with self-care is that it feels like just one more thing to add to our already overflowing to-do lists. Not to mention the time and often the cost of indulging in body treatments! What we love about Garshana dry body brushing is that it’s a simple practice that only takes a few minutes, and can be integrated into your existing routine. Simply use the

LAMAV Garshana Dry Body Brush on dry skin before your shower and not only will your skin thank you, but so too will your stress levels. Proven to help support healthy adrenal function and reduce cortisol, the rhythmic practice of dry body brushing is a simple way to take a moment for your mind and body.

Who should use a Garshana Dry Body Brush?

While most skin types will benefit from dry body brushing, it’s important to use a pressure that you and your skin are comfortable with to avoid irritation. It’s also best to avoid brushing over any areas containing active blemishes or broken skin. If you are pregnant you should consult with your health provider before attempting any body treatment.

How to Implement Garshana Dry Body Brushing into your daily skin routine

LAMAV’s Garshana Dry Body Brush is composed of 100% responsibly sourced bamboo and natural sisal bristles. It was created to complement your self-care regimen and is inspired by traditional Ayurvedic healing practices.

Try this daily Garshana Dry Body Brushing Routine pre shower or bath:

On dry skin before a bath or shower, begin your Garshana practice by using firm, short strokes across the soles of the feet.

Continue with upwards strokes to brush the legs, then circular motions around and behind the knees, before returning to long sweeping strokes up the thighs towards the buttocks.

To brush the arms, begin at the hands, using sweeping upwards strokes up your forearms, around the elbow and up towards your armpits.

Then, use circular clockwise motions to brush the belly in order to assist with the natural flow of digestion.

Follow with the lower back, again using upward strokes as much as possible, before gently brushing downwards from the neck towards your heart.

To complete your Garshana practice, follow with your daily Abhyganga massage using our Ayurvedic Body Oils and finishing with a warm shower.

Final Thoughts on Garshana Dry Body Brushing: A Holistic Mind and Body Ritual

Incorporating Garshana into your morning routine does more than exfoliate the skin. It can also help you connect with your body – giving you a sensory experience to focus on to distract your mind from its busy to-do list! The practice encourages presence, slowing down, and taking time for yourself—three things we often lack in our busy lives. As a result, dry brushing becomes more than skincare—it becomes a mindful ritual that fosters self-love and grounding.

Thinning Hair Fill-Ins 101

Hair Care

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October 28, 2025
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Hair has always been a vital part of our identity and self-expression. Whether we choose to embrace a bold, voluminous mane or sport a sleek and sophisticated look, our hair plays a significant role in shaping our overall appearance. However, for many individuals, the issue of thinning hair can be a cause of concern and even affect their self-confidence.

Thinning hair can occur due to various factors, including genetics, hormonal changes, nutritional deficiencies, and even certain medical conditions. Fortunately, advancements in the beauty and wellness industry have paved the way for innovative solutions to combat this common problem. One such solution gaining popularity is the use of thinning hair fill-ins, which offer a convenient and effective way to achieve fuller, more luscious locks.

Causes of Thinning Hair

Before delving into the world of thinning hair fill-ins, it’s important to understand some of the common causes of thinning hair. Genetic predisposition, hormonal imbalances, stress, and certain medications can all contribute to hair loss and thinning. Additionally, poor nutrition, lack of proper hair care, and excessive heat or chemical treatments can also weaken the hair follicles, leading to thinning strands.

Forget What You’ve Heard about Clip-In Hair Extensions

When it comes to thinning hair fill-ins, there are a few misconceptions that deserve to be debunked. Let’s address some of the common concerns people have:

1. Hair Extensions Cause Hair Damage (aka Traction Alopecia): It’s true that poorly applied or excessively tight hair extensions can lead to traction alopecia, a condition characterized by hair loss due to tension on the hair follicles. However, high-quality thinning hair fill-ins, like Hair Thinning Hair Fill-Ins, are designed with a focus on hair health and comfort. They are created to provide a secure and gentle application, minimizing the risk of damage to your natural hair.

2. Clip-Ins Will Show Since I Have Thin Hair: We’re here to prove the misconception that clip-in extensions are not suitable for thin hair is wrong. Hair Thinning Hair Fill-Ins are specifically designed for individuals with thinning hair. The discreet, secure clips are crafted to blend seamlessly with your natural hair, ensuring a seamless and natural-looking result.

SHOP THINNING HAIR EXTENSIONS

3. Extensions Are Heavy and Hurt Your Head: Traditional extensions can sometimes feel heavy and cause discomfort, especially if they are not properly fitted or maintained. However, Hair Thinning Hair Fill-Ins are crafted to be lightweight, ensuring a comfortable wear throughout the day. They are designed to add volume and fullness without weighing down your hair or causing discomfort.

4. Clip-Ins Could Fall Out: The fear of clip-in extensions falling out can be a common concern, but with Hair Thinning Hair Fill-Ins, you can put those worries to rest. These fill-ins are carefully designed with secure clips that provide a strong hold, ensuring that they stay in place all day long. You can go about your activities with confidence, knowing that your hair fill-ins will remain securely attached.

Luxy Hair Thinning Hair Fill-Ins: The Solution You’ve Been Waiting For

Now that we have addressed the common misconceptions surrounding clip-in hair extensions, let’s explore the unique features and benefits of Thinning Hair Fill-Ins:

1. Beginner-Friendly, 5-Minute Application: Thinning Hair Fill-Ins are designed with simplicity in mind. The user-friendly design allows for quick and effortless application, even for beginners. In just five minutes, you can transform your hair and enjoy a fuller, more voluminous look.

2. Designed for Comfortable All-Day Wear: Thinning Hair Fill-Ins are crafted with your comfort in mind. The lightweight design ensures that you can wear them throughout the day without any discomfort. Whether you’re heading to the office, going out for a social event, or simply running errands, you can rely onThinning Hair Fill-Ins to provide a comfortable and secure fit.

SHOP THINNING HAIR EXTENSIONS

3. Instant Coverage, Where You Need It: The key feature of Thinning Hair Fill-Ins is their ability to provide instant coverage and volume precisely where you need it. Whether you have thinning hair at the crown, temples, or other areas, these fill-ins allow you to customize your application and achieve the desired fullness effortlessly.

4. Discreet, Secure Clips that Are Gentle on Your Hair: The discreet clips used inThinning Hair Fill-Ins are carefully designed to blend seamlessly with your natural hair. They provide a secure hold without causing any damage or discomfort. The gentle clips ensure that your hair remains healthy and intact, even after prolonged use.

5. Tested by a Certified Trichologist: Thinning Hair Fill-Ins have been developed and tested under the guidance of a certified trichologist—a hair and scalp specialist. This ensures that the product meets the highest standards of quality and effectiveness, providing you with a reliable solution for your thinning hair concerns.

Don’t just take our word for it—here are some reviews from our satisfied customers:

“It’s nice that the set is only a few pieces, which makes for quick application.”

“They’re absolutely perfect ‘filler’ for my naturally fine and thin hair. They give a nice boost in volume!”

“My hair is thin enough that I can’t hide a full set. This set really helps but looks natural.”

“I loved the fact that I can style the hair with heat and that they blend into my hair perfectly!”

“It adds enough volume to certain spots that need it, especially during postpartum hair loss.

“I love how lightweight the clip-ins feel and how seamlessly they blend with my hair.”

SHOP THINNING HAIR EXTENSIONS

Thinning hair doesn’t have to dictate your style or undermine your confidence. With Thinning Hair Fill-Ins, you can reclaim the fullness and volume you desire, effortlessly. Say goodbye to thinning hair concerns and embrace a head of luscious locks that make you feel beautiful and confident. Try Thinning Hair Fill-Ins today and experience the transformative power of fuller hair!

Beauty Ideas & Videos 2025

Makeup

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October 28, 2025
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Image Credit @ Wendy Rowe Instagram

For me, Halloween is about doing something really amazing with your makeup – as an artist it gives me a moment to really go for it and be playful. Of course, if you are a makeup artist everyone wants you to do their makeup too! So if I do have time, I have to start mine early before everyone else calls on me to help them. My advice is that you should pick a reference you love and start from there. A couple of years ago that was Madonna for me – it doesn’t have to be scary, so watch your favourite films and music videos and pick looks you love.

Contact lenses are hard to put in (sometimes I want to give up after one!) but they do make all the difference, so be patient because they elevate the Halloween look. And it’s worth picking a fall-back look that you can always go back to if you feel uninspired. For me, that’s a vampire: throw in some fangs and a bit of fake blood to finish your look and you’re good to go! I’m always a vampire of some description. In fact, all of the following looks could work with a vampire.

This Halloween, will you opt for a modern alien inspiration, AI robot-chic or something more spooky? I’ve been scouring social media to find the most fun and expressive makeup looks for Halloween 2025. Which one will you recreate?

Halloween Makeup Tutorials For 2025

Victorian Vampire

Inspired by Val Garland’s 2011 Vivienne Westwood catwalk makeup, this super-chic take on a gothic vampire could be created just like Carol Barragana does in her tutorial, or with red instead of black for a head-turning twist.

HOW?

Start with an all-white base and then use a fan-shaped brush and your statement face paint colour of choice to create bold stripes from the mouth outwards.

Watch the video

Alien Chic

This Alien-inspired design can be recreated exactly as this artist does it, or you can get playful with the colours and patterns to make your own mark.

HOW?

Use a fine liner brush and face paint or cream eye colour to create your design, working from the inner ear outwards in a pattern up one side of your face. Add a softer touch with sultry smokey eye makeup with a metallic finish, or toughen it up with spooky contacts.

Watch the video

Robot Girl

As the AI revolution continues, there’s never been a better moment to go robot-chic with a metallic makeup masterpiece.

HOW?

Not for the novice, this monochrome masterpiece involves slicked-back hair and a carefully-crafted black and white paintwork design, shaded with grey to create a 3D finish.

Watch the video

60s Model

If you prefer to go sexy over scary, try an ultra feminine graphic 60s liner on for size. If you want it to be scary, try adding in blanked out contacts to complete the look.

HOW?

Read the full makeup guide, including which products to buy, here. https://wendyrowe.com/makeup/60s-halloween-makeup-tutorial

Watch the video

Lightning Bolt

Be a natural disaster victim and work up a storm with the easiest effect technique I’ve seen on Instagram this year.

HOW?

Once you’ve perfected your base makeup, apply a hot red eye colour to a crumpled piece of tin foil and press it onto your cheek to make your mark. Touch up using liquid eyeliner to create your lightening-perfect design.

Watch the video

Futuristic Pin-Up

If you want something classic but with a seasonal twist, I love this statement blue eye by Daniel Sallstrom for W Magazine.

HOW?

Take your blue shadow outward from beyond the eye area and use along the hairline in the same spots as you would usually bronze for a sun-kissed finish. Finish with a blood red matte lip.

Watch the video

Scorpion Lips

Don’t want a full-face look? Add a statement lined lip and make your Halloween pout perfect.

HOW?

Either use a transfer tattoo design to create this lip-lining statement style, or if you’re feeling artistic, create a matte canvas and draw your own spider or scorpion lips using a waterproof liquid liner.

Watch the video

TOP TIP
This is the time to go all-out and be experimental, don’t be shy to go bold. Once you’re happy with your look, set it in place with a setting spray, check out the best ones in my edit here.

MORE HALLOWEEN: Makeup Ideas | The Perfect Dark Red Lip

© Wendy Rowe. All Rights Reserved.

Bellabeautebar Dark Dreamscape Palette Look for Deepset Eyes

Cosmetics

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October 28, 2025
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Happy Friday! Today I’m sharing my Bellabeautebar Dark Dreamscape Palette Look for deepset eyes with you. The Bellabeautebar Dark Dreamscape Palette is a newly released palette that I feel was made for me. The colors hit all the pastel goth vibes in the best way.

I wore this look out to an art show featuring The Alchemist Artist, a local Tampa artist who is incredibly talented and has won several awards for her art.

About the Bellabeautebar Dark Dreamscape Palette

The Bellabeautebar Dark Dreamscape Palette is $78. It’s comprised of 5 multichromes, 2 holo chromes, 1 shimmer and 11 buttery mattes. I get all day wear using eyeshadow primer. For the multichromes, holochromes, and shimmer shades I prefer to use a glitter primer or UD All Nighter Spray to help the shimmer stay around. I’ve been sharing end of day IG stories with my look so you can see how well it lasts and does not crease on me.

About the Alchemist Artist

The Alchemist Artist creates a multi sensory experience with all her art. She uses a fusion of mixed media, mica, and resin to create strong, durable, easy to clean art that is difficult to damage. All the pieces glow in the dark and can be charged by sunlight or a blacklight.

She says, “The purpose of my art is to create a tool that provides someone a grounding, soothing, memorizing far out trippy experience.”

I love her art so much! The tactile experience of touching it is extremely grounding. It’s very cool that it is interactive and you can draw on it with a blacklight pen, which I believe is included with every purchase.

Dark Dreamscape Makeup Look

BROWS
Nyx The Brow Glue Crazy Lift (cf)

EYES
Urban Decay Eden Primer Potion (cf)
Urban Decay Perversion 24/7 Eyeliner pencil (v)
Bellabeautebar Dark Dreamscape Palette (Psychokinetic, Portal, Shadow Universe, Night Terror)(use code CORDELIA to save)(v)
Nyx Quartz Queen Eyeliner pencil (v)
Thrive Causemetics Brynn Liquid Lash Extensions Mascara (best vegan mascara ever)
Velour Self-Stick Lash Clusters (v)

FACE
one/size On Til’ Dawn setting spray (v)
About Face F0 Cool the Performer Foundation (v)
Em Cosmetics Seraph Heaven’s Glow Blush (v)
Haus Labs Rose Quartz as highlighting blush (v)
Kaleidos Makeup Moon Cruiser Highlighter (v)
Huda Beauty Pound Cake Loose Easy Bake powder (cf)
VE Cosmetics Witch Please Loose Contour Powder (v)

LIPS
Buxom Cosmetics Powerful Plum and Magnetic Mauve Power Line Lip Pencil (cf)
Fenty Flamingo Fling and How Many Carats?! Gloss Bomb Sticks High-Shimmer Gloss Sticks (cf)

NAILS
ILNP Flower Child nail polish (v)

FASHION
New Zealand Black Jade Necklace
Black Milk Clothing Mother of Pearl Rio Midi Dress
Black Pointed Toe Flats

FRAGRANCE
(PR) Marste Une Nuit Parisienne (such a lovely, cozy chai fragrance)(code CORDELIA)(cf)

Self Adhesive Lash Cluster Tip

I love the Velour stick-on fake lashes! Here’s my best tip for putting them on:

First, curl your real eyelashes and add your mascara. I think they look best this way.

Then, use a lash tool to gently pick up the fake lashes. Grab them in the middle or near the ends. Carefully place them underneath your real lashes, right up close to your eyelid.

After the fake lashes are on, use your fingers to press your real lashes and the fake ones together. Hold them for about 30 to 60 seconds to make sure they stick on really well.

Bellabeautebar Dark Dreamscape Palette Look for Deepset Eyes Tutorial

Here’s a written step-by-step tutorial on how I achieved this eye look. I also used makeup tape to help me create a crisp line.

First, put UD Eden Primer Potion on your eyelids and wait for it to dry.

Use the UD Perversion eyeliner pencil to draw a line on the skin right at the roots of your eyelashes, this makes them look thicker and fuller.

Draw a little eyeliner on the outer corner at your lower lash line roots.

Next, draw a wing shape at the outer corner of your eye. Use a pencil brush to smudge the wing, making it look soft and smoky. Blend it up toward the end of your eyebrow.

With a fluffy brush, lightly sweep the eyeshadow color Psychokinetic (Dark Dreamscape Palette) all over your eye, from your lashes up to your eyebrows. Add some to the lower lid too.

Using a brush like the Sigma E27, apply the color Portal (Dark Dreamscape Palette) in small circles to the outer part of your eyelid and in the crease.

With a flat brush, pat the color Shadow Universe (Dark Dreamscape Palette) on the outer part of your eyelid, on top of the eyeliner you already put down.

Use your finger to tap the color Night Terror (Dark Dreamscape Palette) on the inner corner of your eyelid and inner v.

With a pencil brush, use the Pound Cake powder to soften the very top edge of the eyeshadow under your eyebrow.

Line the inside rim of your lower eyelid with the Quartz Queen Eyeliner pencil.

Curl your eyelashes, then apply the Brynn mascara.

To finish the look, add a few Self-Stick Lash Clusters to make your lashes look fuller.

I hope you find this Bellabeautebar Dark Dreamscape Palette Look and Tutorial for Deepset Eyes helpful.

A Note About My Skin

I’m having the worst rosacea flare that I’ve had in years right now. My skin is red and irritated, so I used two layers of foundation and extra powder to try to make it look better for going out. Despite being unhappy with my skin, I still loved my Bellabeautebar Dark Dreamscape Palette makeup look and wanted to share it. I think it’s tied for the best look I’ve done all month.

Here’s the other makeup look that I’ve really loved this month. My niece especially loved it, which made me happy!

See the Bellabeautebar Dark Dreamscape Makeup and Alchemist Artist’s Art in Action!

Swipe right to see my makeup in movement. I also included some video of the art changing colors and designs under the blacklight.

Alchemist Artist

Below is a photo of me with the Alchemist Artist, Patty.

Doesn’t she look fabulous? I’ve known her for two decades and love her to pieces.

A Note About Bellabeautebar

Bellabeautebar has quickly become my favorite indie brand for makeup palettes with cohesive color stories. I’ve purchased so many of their palettes in the past two years. It all started with Basic Witch in March 2024. Zero regrets in falling in love with Bellabeautebar.

Life Update

Dave and I are moving at the end of October. We’re excited to start a new chapter in our lives. Once I’m settled in, I’ll be sharing more with you. Between this move, starting a few new companies in our professional lives, and other personal issues, this year has been insanely busy for us. I hope you’re doing well.

What are you dressing up as for Halloween? If you need any ideas, check out my Halloween Makeup Ideas feature. I know Dave and I are going to a vampire themed party, where I’ll be dressing as the vampire and he’ll be dressing as the monster slayer.

More to See

The (Non)science of Clean Beauty and Clean Beauty Apps – skinfo

Skin Care Blog

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October 28, 2025
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Nowadays, it’s impossible to look for a new beauty product without hearing the words, “clean beauty”, and it makes sense! We don’t want to use products that could harm our health or the environment. In some ways, clean beauty is a little like music- everyone can understand it, but very few people can agree on what’s the best. Every brand has its own definition of what it means to be a “clean beauty” brand, so it can be very confusing when one brand says one ingredient is clean versus another brand saying an ingredient isn’t clean. Clean beauty apps, like the Yuka app or the EWG app, claim to make navigating this world of clean beauty easier. All you have to do is scan the barcode on the bottom of the box and boom! The app tells you if there are any ingredients in the formula that could be hazardous to your health or the environment. While this may seem like a dream come true, the reality is slightly more nuanced.

Clean beauty apps are fairly consistent in what they state are “good” ingredients and what they state are “bad” ingredients. It’s very often that the more natural ingredients score highly yet the synthetic ingredients tend to get low scores. This is a good example of the Appeal to Nature Fallacy, which states that something is good or desirable because it is natural, and that natural products are preferable to synthetic ones. Ironically, natural ingredients like essential oils are typically more irritating than synthetic ingredients. In its natural form, BOTOX® is one of the most toxic substances on earth, but when it’s processed in a lab, it becomes one of the most highly sought-after cosmetic treatments in the world of dermatology.

In cosmetic formulations, there are two different types of ingredients- functional and active. Active ingredients promote change in the skin- vitamin c, for example, can stimulate collagen production. Functional ingredients work to make a product more elegant and improve the performance of the product. Ingredients like dimethicone are used to give products a nice silky texture and ingredients like carbomer make lotions and creams more thick. There are also multiple names for the same ingredient. On the back of a product label, vitamin c will never be written as vitamin c, but it may appear as L-ascorbic acid, sodium ascorbyl phosphate, magnesium ascorbyl phosphate, ascorbyl glucoside, ascorbyl palmitate, or tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate. That’s a lot of long words, but they are all forms of vitamin c!

When navigating the skincare, haircare, or cosmetic aisle, it’s best to approach the ingredients list with an open mind and curiosity at heart. If an ingredient has a long name and is hard to pronounce, that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s a bad thing. Dihydrogen monoxide sounds scary, but it’s water, after all.

If you have any concerns or need personalized advice, stop by skinfo® and speak with one of our licensed estheticians!

How to Apply Calming Toner for Best Results – Merindah Botanicals

Skin Care Makeup

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October 28, 2025
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Not sure how to use a calming toner? You’re not alone. Many people skip toner because they’re unsure what it does or how to apply it.

But when used correctly, a calming toner can refresh, balance, and prep your skin in under a minute.

How to Use a Calming Toner in the Morning and Evening

Step 1 – Cleanse Your Skin

Remove makeup, sunscreen, and impurities with a gentle cleanser to create a clean base.

Step 2 – Apply Your Calming Toner

Apply your toner to a cotton pad and sweep gently over skin to remove any leftover residue.

Step 3 – Follow with Moisturiser or Serum

A calming toner primes your skin for the rest of your skincare routine, helping it absorb all the benefits of your next products.

Tips for Different Skin Types

Sensitive Skin

Use a soothing toner for sensitive skin to avoid irritation — and always pat gently instead of rubbing.

Oily Skin

Apply toner to control excess oil without stripping the skin’s natural barrier.

Combination Skin

Focus on oilier areas like the T-zone, and lightly mist drier areas for balance.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Skipping toner because you think it’s “optional.”

Choosing alcohol-based formulas that dry out the skin.

Applying with unclean hands or pads, which can transfer bacteria.

Shop our Calming Facial Toner — the gentle step your skin’s been missing.

KBShimmer Love at Frost Sight Swatches & Review

Nails

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October 28, 2025
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Press Sample

The temps are dropping, spirits are bright, cookies are baking, and folks are getting into the holiday spirit. While this year isn’t the ideal holiday experience with so many of us away from our families, lots of people out of work (my boyfriend included after 22 years at the same company), and stresses higher than usual, I feel like this is the year to really show our resilience and make these holidays great, no matter what the situation is. Tomorrow will always be brighter day, and until then, there’s always nail polish. <3 Speaking of–today I have the KBShimmer Love at Frost Sight collection to share with you!

Pale peachy golden champagne with shifts of pink, gold, and copper

Can we talk about how freaking gorgeous this is? It’s my favorite shade of the entire collection, and it’s not hard to see why! With its glory warm sheen, it’s sure to light your menorah!

Opacity scale (1-5): 2

Finish: Shimmer, 2-3 coats to be opaque

Icy silver metallic magnetic

This shade pulls double duty- you can wear it layered over your favorite darker polish and create cool designs with your magnet, or, like me, do 2-3 coats over your natural nail to create an icy, frosted look to your nail! Fun tip- try starburst shaped magnets for a unique shining star effect!

Opacity scale (1-5): 1.5

Finish: Magnetic, 3 coats to be opaque without magnet

Deep denim blue creme

The only creme in the collection, this one reminds me of dark, starry nights with that crisp chill in the air! It’s definitely a perfect base color for shades like Love at Frost Sight and Sol Amazing!

Opacity scale (1-5): 3

Finish: Creme, 2 coats to be opaque

Perfect wine linear holo

Ummmm, pour me a glass of my favorite Cabernet, I’ll be right back. Time to put on my comfy pants, because I’m nestling myself under the heated blanket next to two snugging pups, and streaming Hallmark movies all night. Don’t judge, we all have our vices. (I’m about 30 movies into the season lol) This is probably the truest wine colored holo I’ve seen, and I love it!

Opacity scale (1-5): 3.5

Finish: Holographic, 1-2 coats to be opaque

Black cherry base with color shifting flakes – thermal, warm state is a bright raspberry

This one totally reminds me of blackberry jam, which I LOVE to spread on sourdough bread (like everyone has been making during the last 8 months or so lol) it’s color-shifting flakes shift from pink, to copper to blue. This beauty is a thermal, which, I’ll admit I didn’t realize until I started to write this. In between tonight and the day I swatched these polishes, I’ve broken two nails (OF COURSE!), so I had to show off the temperature shift for you on a single nail. I hope you’ll all forgive me.

Opacity scale (1-5): 3

Finish: Thermal/Flakie, 2 coats to be opaque

Warm Santa red with color shifting flakes and scattered micro holo

A cheerful red with plenty of color-shifting flakes ranging from gold to red to orange. Look closely and you’ll see a sprinkling of good cheer in the form of micro holo flakes! As someone who is knitting and crocheting like a crazy person these days, I can totally relate to the spirit of this shade!

Opacity scale (1-5): 2.5

Finish: Flakie, 2 coats to be opaque

Clear base with color-shifting flakes of rust, gold & green (I even spotted a few sparks of blue!)

Sunshine in a bottle! This polish is so densely packed with flakes, you’re not going to have to do too much work to get a lovely shifting sheen on your nails! Layer it over shades like Stream On, Stream Away or wear it alone, either way, it’s sure to be a ray of sunshine!

Opacity scale (1-5): 2

Finish: Flakie, 2+ coats to be opaque

Champagne & pink holo glitter bomb

Tis the season to glitter allll the things! It’s the season of sparkle, and this one won’t let you down. It’s the bubbles in your Champagne glasses, the sparkle on your tree, the shimmering flame of your menorah. It’s one that will look good year round, but is really a gift this time of year!

Opacity scale (1-5): 2

Finish: Glitter, 2+ coats to be opaque

Emerald green with color-shifting flakes and subtle micro holo

With it’s deep evergreen hue and mixture of flakes and holo, it’s like a brightly decorated Christmas tree with all your favorite ornaments and twinkling lights on every bough.

Opacity scale (1-5): 2.5

Finish: Flakie, 2 coats to be opaque

White crelly with red and green glitter

The instant I saw this polish, my mouth started watering, and I glanced to my baking cupboard with desire. I can almost taste the creamy frosting and feel the crunchy nonpareils (the superior sprinkle of ALLLLL the sprinkles…fight me) between my teeth. This one totally hits the mark for me–it totally evokes memories of holidays spent in the kitchen baking treats for family and friends.

Opacity scale (1-5): 2.5

Finish: Crelly/Glitter, 2 coats to be opaque

Blackened Burgundy with shifts to gold, green, and rust.

Holy wowza! Such a super gorgeous (and stealthy) polish that needs to be in your collection! I love the way that when the light hits is perfectly your nails are set ablaze in color!

Opacity scale (1-5): 3

Finish: Multichrome, 2 coats to be opaque

Silvery aqua with shifts to cerulean and purple

Imagine this–you’re on a simmering sea, and the sun has just dropped below the horizon, and the purple sky is starting to show its beauty. That is THIS polish! It’s a far more shy/subtle shift than ones like Obsidian, but it’s oh so gorgeous!

Opacity scale (1-5): 3

Finish: Multichrome, 2 coats to be opaque

Obsidian + holo shimmer!

Everything to love from Obsidian, but with the addition of HOLO. Ummmmm HELLO! Super gorgeous- it’s like Obsidian is on fire with embers of holo.

Opacity scale (1-5): 3

Finish: Multichrome, 2 coats to be opaque

Bright royal blue shifting to turquoise, purple, and even a hint of pink

Umm, if I had a dragon, it would be this color. I think it’s pretty obvious why, with that absolutely stunning shift. If that dragon had a brother though, it’d be Obsidian, because duh. Just call me Khaleesiiiiiii.

Opacity scale (1-5): 3

Finish: Multichrome, 2 coats to be opaque

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Phew! I hope you’ve made it this far with me, but if you were distracted by one of these gorgeous polishes, I can’t say that I blame you! There are so many beautiful polishes in this collection, but there are some definite standouts. For me, those standout polishes are Shamash Hit, Sip Back and Relax, Baking Spirits Bright, and Obsidian! Tell me in the comments what your favorite shades from this collection are!

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Disclosure: Products in this post were provided by the manufacturer for consideration. All opinions are my own.

How to prepared your hair for the holiday season – Iles Formula

Hair Care

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October 28, 2025
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The festive season is here, a time of celebrations, glamorous looks, and unforgettable moments. Just as your wardrobe gets its seasonal upgrade, your hair deserves the same level of care and attention.

Colder months can leave hair feeling brittle, dull, or lacklustre. But with the right ritual, your locks can remain sumptuous, voluminous, and luminous all season long. Here’s how to prep your hair for the holidays with Iles Formula, the benchmark in luxury reparative haircare.

Regular deep conditioning treatments are crucial during the colder months. They help replenish lost moisture and strengthen strands, keeping dry hair soft and resilient.

Haute Performance Hair Mask

This luxury hair mask restores moisture, improves hair elasticity, and leaves hair soft and supple

Opt for products that are gentle and nourishing, especially for coloured hair.

Recommended Products:

Iles Formula Shampoo Haute Performance: A sulfate-free + Silicon Free shampoo that cleanses without stripping natural oils.

Iles Formula Conditioner Haute Performance is a jewel and stands apart in the hairdressing industry with its with unique performance of cuticle closure without depositing weight of any kind. The shampoo and conditioner have been formatted as part of a 3 step system that delivers the majestic hair of your life !

During the colder months, you might be tempted to use heat styling tools more frequently. Always apply a heat protectant to shield your hair from potential damage.

Recommended Product:

finishing serum haute performance

This Iles Formula finishing serum not only protects against heat damage but also adds lustrous shine, frizz control, and sumptuous hair smoothness.

A healthy scalp is the foundation for strong, healthy hair growth. Regular treatments prevent dryness, flakiness, and support hair strength.

Recommended Product:

Scalp + Hair Rejuvenating Booster

This scalp and Hair rejuvenating booster nourishes and revitalizes, creating the perfect environment for vibrant healthy scalp and hair growth

By incorporating all of the above into your routine, and pairing them with The Iles Formula Holiday Collection, you’ll achieve the ultimate preparation for the festive season.

This curated collection unites the Signature Shampoo, Conditioner, Finishing Serum, Vegan Case, and Wet Brush. The complete ritual for hair that feels sumptuously soft, weightless, and impeccably smooth.

With the Holiday Collection, every wash, condition, and finish becomes a moment of indulgence, ensuring your hair looks as radiant and unforgettable as the season itself.

Why me and my clients love barrel leg jeans.

Personal Stylist

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October 28, 2025
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The barrel leg jean has been slowly creeping into our local boutiques and retailers (and our wardrobes) over the past 3 years now. But for many of you, they’ve been a more recent discovery and one that perhaps at first, you considered a steadfast ‘no’ when you saw the likes of me wearing them.

I know this to be true from the reactions and comments I received on my very first video featuring my barrel leg jeans back in 2022. Let’s just say, reactions were mixed! Comments like, “they make you look bow-legged” and “I think you need to get back on your horse Sally!” were common.

But fast-forward almost 3 years, and it seems that you’ve come around… finally. The barrel leg jean, I would argue, is not just ‘another trend’ that we’ll look back on and think, “what was I thinking?” it’s instead just another version of a wardrobe staple… the classic denim jean.

As you know I’m a huge lover and wearer of denim. I always have been. For me, the jeans in my closet are what keeps my style grounded, interesting and modern. I love the way a pair of jeans can instantly make me feel relaxed, sporty, edgy, unique, cool… whatever way I want to feel on any given day.

Jeans can be like that for you too. And having a variety of styles of jeans is what allows you to determine what image you want to portray from one day to the next. The barrel leg jean is just another tool in your denim toolbox.

While I might use a barrel leg jean to lean into the contemporary side of my personal style, you can use them to achieve something completely different, because your style will be different to mine. I’ve now styled hundreds of clients in these jeans, not with the intention to create clones of myself, nor to project my sense of style on to them, but to help them build wardrobes with more tools at their disposal.

My clients have ranged from Millennials wanting to get out of their skinnies, retirees wanting to modernise their look, creatives looking for a funky yet comfortable jean to sit at their desks in, and mum’s on the sidelines of weekend sport desperate to get out of their leggings.

I’ve worked with women of all shapes, sizes, heights, ages and budgets and put them in a barrel leg jean. Trust me when I say, everyone can wear them. The only clients I’ve met who’ve ‘declined’ the barrel leg jean, simply don’t like them. And that’s cool! I’m not here to tell you NEED a pair, especially if the look of them does not appeal to you. It’s of little service even if an item of clothing looks amazing on you, you just don’t feel good wearing it.

So below, due to popular demand after my most recent postare my favourite barrel leg jean styles that I’ve styled my clients in. I’ve included a range of price points, size ranges and barrel ‘extremes’. How these suggestions work for your wardrobe, and your personal style, is up to you. Don’t overthink barrel leg jeans, they’re just another jean in your wardrobe!

If you need a refresh on styling them, you can always check back to these posts:

All the below suggestions are shown in Australian sizing and in AUD. No commission is earnt from these links.

Witchery Jeans in Indigo Denim, sizes 4-18 – $179 (other washes available)

These are REALLY good! Witchery have managed to perfect the curve with an additional panel down the side of each leg. Very Tibi-esque (the Tibi version, is included below)

Commonry Jeans in Ecru, size 8-24 – $149.95 (other washes available)

For those who need a little bit of reinforcement around the waist, the waistband and double button feature of these is really great for creating additional shape and support.

Agolde Luna Jeans, sizes 6-16 – $479 (other washes available)

These are one of the pairs I own, and they’re great. I was unsure about the raw hem (I’m pretty sure there are hemmed options) but it does add a little bit of additional edge. Come to think of it, this is probably the style Witchery modelled their’s off.

Cos Arch Taper in washed black, size 6-14 – $159 (other washes available)

For those wanting a less extreme shape, these are goodies. Trouble is Cos don’t seem to bring in many of any size, so they sell out quickly.

Rolla’s Gigi in raw denim, sizes 6-16 – $159.95 (other washes available)

If you like your barrels with a little bit of retro edge (i.e. those rear pockets) then these Rolla’s are a great option, and reasonably priced too. The raw denim (as I’ve featured in a few picks) is perfect if you want your denim to feel more elevated.

City Chic Harley Fit, sizes 10-26 – $119.95 (other washes available)

These include the hallmarks of a good barrel, with the diagonal stitching at the knee, giving the jeans a little extra personality. And psst… these have an elasticised rear waistband!

Alpha 60 Dalton Jeans, sizes XXS-XL – $229

My OG barrels are these from Alpha 60 (I have the indigo and washed black) The contrast stitching on these below is cool, but can look a bit ‘wrong’ if you’re petite, as it falls a bit too low on the leg.

Tibi Sid in classic wash, sizes 6-14 (short & regular length) – approx. $750 (other washes available)

I have the bleached denim version of these and I’m literally tempted every other day to buy another pair! So I keep an eye on them secondhand. These will NEVER go on sale at Tibi FYI! They come in 2 lengths too! Great for tallies like me.

Decjuba Camille jean, sizes 6-20 – $119.95 (other washes available)

A great affordable option in a good size range. Decjuba always do great denim (that is also usually soft and comfortable)

Ksubi Spliced Barrel, sizes 4-14 – $299.95 (larger size range in other washes)

So, I haven’t seen these on but… I think I need to try them! For those of you who like your clothing a little more experimental, I reckon these are super cool.

Frame ‘The Bubble’ sizes 6-16 – $535 (other washes available)

Say no more, Frame knows how to make denim. Yes they’re an investment, but at the end of the day if the barrel leg style and silhouette really works for you, and you can see yourself wearing them for years to come (like me) and you have the budget, then that’s a choice only you can make.

Thanks for reading x

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