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How Azzi Fudd Became Basketball’s Princess

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How Azzi Fudd Became Basketball’s Princess

You can see the confidence. A season after winning the NCAA Championship and being named the tournament’s Most Outstanding Player, the guard is averaging career highs in virtually every statistical category. Off the court, her more than 1 million social media followers are captivated by her megawatt smile and breezy personality. The combination of her chronic TikTok presence and near-perfect gameplay fueled her rapid rise in popularity.

It was easy to notice when I attended last December’s matchup against the USC Trojans in Los Angeles. Thousands turned out to cheer for UConn, a school almost 3,000 miles away. Fans sporting jerseys with Fudd’s number, 35, flooded the sold-out arena. Young girls dotted the tunnel in hopes of a photo, a glimpse, or a high-five from Fudd. When the guard’s name was announced during the starting lineups, she received the loudest roar. Even the USC usher for section 119, where I sat amongst screeching UConn fans, couldn’t contain her glee when Fudd swished a three-pointer. She clapped and yelled, “Let’s go, Azzi!”.

After the game, a screaming crowd—some even matching Fudd’s signature two-cornrow gameday hairstyle—clung to bedazzled posters and waited anxiously by the UConn team bus. I mean, she is, after all, the People’s Princess (a nickname started by close friend and former teammate Paige Bueckers because the coach rarely yelled at Fudd). Now you can buy Fudd’s merch with the slogan emblazoned on it.

“It’s just surreal to think I really am living out my dreams,” she says. “And it’s all because of a sport. It’s all because I like to put a ball in a basket.”

“Her experience has been very different from mine,” Azzi’s mom, Katie Fudd, tells me. Katie played college basketball at NC State and Georgetown and was later drafted into the WNBA, but back then, schools cared only about their big-ticket men’s programs, she says. But she was so passionate about the women’s game that she named her daughter after her favorite player, ’90s Olympic legend Jennifer Azzi. “Wherever [Fudd] went, we wanted the women’s program to matter to the community, to the school, to the athletic department. And it really does here.”

Pipenco jacket and skirt. Stylist’s own tights. Louboutin shoes.

La Roche-Posay uses Medicos’ combination of roll-on and dropper for Hyalu B5

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La Roche-Posay uses Medicos’ combination of roll-on and dropper for Hyalu B5

For the packaging of Hyalu B5 Anti-Wrinkle Eye SerumLa Roche-Posay relied on Doctors’ expertise, featuring an original combination of a dropper and a roll-on designed to meet the requirements of targeted and precise application.

This solution is based on a PP roll-on pipette with a stainless-steel ball, complemented by a nitrile bulb, a PP collar and a PP protective transport cap. The 15ml bottle is in mass dyed molded glass.

The originality of the system lies in the functional combination of the dropper’s precise dosing gesture with the roll-on’s targeted application, specifically adapted to the eye contour area.

From an industrial standpoint, Medicos successfully addressed the challenge of fully automated assembly of the stainless-steel ball and the dropper system, ensuring reliability, repeatability and production performance.

With sustainability in mind, the PP, stainless-steel and glass components are recyclable. The bulb, currently made of nitrile, will soon be replaced by a TPE version recyclable within the PP stream, while maintaining identical functional and sensory properties.


The specific development brings together two historic areas of expertise at Medicos: droppers and roll-on solutions, both derived from established ready-to-use ranges.

Medicos’ roll-on range is based on housing ball, a glass or stainless-steel ball, a PP or RPP cap with a tubular glass bottle. Two standard ball diameters are available – D7.5 mm and D10 mm – corresponding respectively to capacities of 5 to 10 ml and 10 to 20 ml. Flow reducers can be integrated depending on application requirements.

As far as droppers are concerned, the Doctors’ range includes a tubular glass pipette or a specific PP pipette, fitted with a nitrile, butyl or TPE teat, and a smooth or ribbed PP or RPP cap. Different pipette geometries and orifice diameters allow precise adaptation to cosmetic and dermocosmetic applications. These droppers can be combined with tubular glass, molded glass or plastic bottles in various capacities.

Tamper-evident rings and PP pipette protectors complement this offering.

The breadth of available diameters, lengths and capacities enables a wide range of combinations, further enhanced by multiple finishing options. Caps and housing ball can be mass-dyed, with additional finishes such as lacquering, metallization or aluminum sleeving available, along with decorative options including hot stamping or engraving. The bottle can also be customized by silk-screen printing, hot stamping or lacquering.

Inside Florida’s First 24-Hour Salon: My Experience at IBol Beauty

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Inside Florida’s First 24-Hour Salon: My Experience at IBol Beauty

I got to see Florida’s first 24-hour salon for myself, a place where beauty and flexibility come together, and women’s real lives are finally considered in the way the space is designed.

At 12 PM, I entered an energetic salon. Stylists were already braiding, laughing, and moving with ease. I especially enjoyed the TV in the background sometimes, as an introvert, I just want to relax and be present.

Most salons feel either rushed or too quiet, but this one was calm, joyful, and comfortable. It reminded me of spending summer days at a favorite cousin’s house.

Photo Credit: @Nickienou

This 24-hour salon offers women greater flexibility to schedule appointments around their busy lives. With locations in Miami and Coral Springs, IBol Beauty is expanding access to beauty services in South Florida.

More than just a 24-hour salon

Many salons do not reflect the realities of women’s lives today. The owner explained this clearly.

“Beauty services were operating on an outdated model, but women’s lives had  evolved.”

That shift led to IBol Beauty, a salon created to meet women’s real needs. When I asked Nickie, the owner, what inspired her idea, her answer was simple.

“The idea for a 24-hour salon came from something very simple, listening to women.”

This approach made sense to me because not everyone can come in during regular hours. I appreciated that she understood this and designed the salon to fit our real schedules.

Right from the start, everything felt different and thoughtfully planned.

My appointment began with a full wash, which I really appreciated. Many salons skip this, so the experience felt complete and not rushed.

I got a lace wig installed, and the owner even provided the hair, which I loved. It took away the stress of planning and allowed me to just show up. That convenience really set them apart.

“South Florida is a 24-hour economy, but the beauty industry was still stuck in a 9-to-6 mindset.”

I’ve always struggled to find a salon that works with my schedule. Most close by 5 or 6 PM, so there’s little time after work. I’ve even used PTO for hair appointments, which isn’t easy.

“I didn’t see the 24-hour concept as risky, I saw it as logical.”

Now that I’ve tried this, I understand. I’ve had last-minute cancellations before, which is very frustrating when you’ve planned your day. A 24-hour salon changes that. Now, there’s always an option.

“Entrepreneurship allowed me to create my own systems instead of following ones that weren’t designed with us in mind.”

What stood out to me was how we’ve always had to adjust to systems that weren’t made for us. This experience felt different, designed for real life. As women, we’re always trying to fit everything in and rarely get a moment to pause.

This place didn’t rush me, reschedule me, or make me change my plans. I could show up anytime, sit down, and put myself first. It made self-care much easier.

Honestly, that’s what made the biggest impression on me.

“IBol isn’t just about hair, it’s about what happens when women decide to build without limits.”

10 ‘Jeans And A Nice Top’ Outfit Ideas That Are Perfect for Spring

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10 ‘Jeans And A Nice Top’ Outfit Ideas That Are Perfect for Spring

Regardless of age, location or personal style, the pairing of ‘jeans and a nice top’ is one of those combos that we all rely on at some point in our lives. Whether you left it behind or still revisit said combo on any given day, this spring is the perfect time to shake things up and reimagine what this classic duo actually looks like.

Yes, the perennial 2000s formula might be the easiest ways to get dressed – but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t approach it with the same level of consideration as you would when styling a dress or a suit. And I know you’re thinking it: putting a pair of jeans and a top together isn’t exactly groundbreaking, but it sure can be quite effective when done right.

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While denim is often associated with a casual-cool vibe, adding a top with a fun silhouette or a more elevated fabric will instantly add that ‘going-out’ feel – and that’s ityou’re all dressed up. Without feeling too dressed up, of course. And there’s also a game of proportion that’s key when elevating the ‘jeans and a nice top’ silhouette. Playing with extremes and bringing together opposing shapes will build on the simplicity, without requiring too many accessories to create a chic outfit you will want to wear again and again. Think wide-leg super high-waisted jeans, like the ribcage style, worn with a mini crop top.

Unsurprisingly, celebs are all over this high-low combo, too. Kylie Jenner was recently spotted in some cherry red leather and a raw straight-leg denim jean, in a look that totally evokes late 1990s Pam Anderson. On the other end of the style spectrum, you’ve got Ayo Edebiri at the premiere of Ella McCay in fresh-off-the-catwalk Chanel. Designed by Matthieu Blazy for the French brand’s latest Métiers d’art show, the outfit featured a pair of light washed jeans reminiscent of men’s Levi’s 505 along with a simple white tee and a bedazzled longline gilet. And need I remind you of Margot Robbie’s Chanel waistcoat and jeans look?

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Kylie Jenner / Instagram

Is It Better to Run Fast or Slow?

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Is It Better to Run Fast or Slow?

You probably already know that running is a stellar form of exercise. It provides a host of health-boosting benefits, including improved heart function, boosted mood, and reduced risk of a bunch of chronic diseases.

But if you’re looking to maximize these gains, what’s the better pick: fast running or slow running?

On the one hand, fast running may seem like a smart way to bolster the efficiency of your sessions, allowing you to burn more energy and log more miles in less time. That said, slow running aligns with the zone 2 cardio trend, which promises ample cardiovascular benefit, plus minimized injury risk. So it is a toss-up? Or does one reign supreme?

To settle the debate, we tapped two running coaches. Read on to learn what distinguishes fast running from slow running, the unique benefits of each, and the ideal breakdown within a training program, depending on your goals.

What do we mean by “fast running” and “slow running”?

“Fast” and “slow” are subjective terms. What may be considered fast for a beginner runner–for example, a 10-minute per mile pace–would likely qualify as super slow for an Olympian, whose fast may be, say, a five-minute per mile pace.

So instead of assigning universal paces, a better way to think about the distinction is how easily you can hold a conversation as you stride. With slow running, your effort level should be low enough that you can talk no problem, Matt Campbell, a certified personal trainer and run coach at PRO Club / Bay Club in Washington state, tells SELF. “You’re not out of breath,” he explains.

For beginner runners, this often means taking regular walk breaks to ensure you maintain that ability to chat, Campbell says. Another way to think about it: At the end of a slow run, you should feel like you could have kept going, exercise physiologist and running coach Janet Hamilton, founder of Running Strong in Georgia, tells SELF. Slow running, she adds, should feel comfortable and easy.

If you’re someone who tracks heart rate during exercise, slow running typically falls into zone 2, which means your heart is beating at about 60% to 70% of its maximum rate, Campbell says.

On the flip side, fast running is pretty much the opposite of slow running. With fast running, talking is…not really an option, Campbell says. The run itself should feel hard and uncomfortable, and your heart rate will likely be 75% to 90% (or possibly more) of your maximum, Campbell says. This translates to zones 3, 4, and 5. No matter your fitness level, fast running will likely leave you feeling gassed.

TotalEnergies focuses on chemical recycling of plastic despite criticism

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TotalEnergies focuses on chemical recycling of plastic despite criticism

In the bales of plastic waste stored in a large hangar, we recognize logos well known to French consumers. Tex-Mex prepared meals, red or blue sodas, aperitif biscuit packaging… The waste was grouped into large packages of more than 420 kilos by the waste specialist, Paprec, before being delivered to the TotalEnergies site.

“Zero oil platform”

These rejects from the consumer society will not be incinerated or buried, like three quarters of their plastic counterparts in France, but must serve a noble purpose, explains the group: closing the loop in plastic production, by replacing their raw material, naphtha.

The latter comes largely from oil refining, which for decades was the activity of the gigantic Grandpuits refinery, from which gasoline and diesel for cars and trucks, kerosene for planes, fuel oil and even gas and naphtha have been produced since 1967. A leak in the pipeline supplying it with crude from Le Havre made the hydrocarbon giant decide in 2020 to convert the impressive industrial footprint into a “zero oil platform”. Ambitions have since been scaled back with the freezing of part of the activities initially planned.

TotalEnergies, however, announced on Thursday March 19 the launch of what the group presents as thea “first factory in France for the chemical recycling of plastics”using technology developed by the British company Plastic Energy. The latter claimed in August to have produced plastic pyrolysis oil registered under the brand “Tacoil”, in a factory under a joint venture with the Saudi chemical giant Sabic, based in Geleen in the Netherlands.

On the Grandpuits side, the first tanker truck filled with Tacoil, a dark-colored and flammable oil, left the site at the beginning of March to reach Antwerp, in Belgium, and the refining-petrochemical platform that TotalEnergies operates there, explains the site director, Guillaume Alliot. This hydrocarbon makes it possible to manufacture recycled plastics “of identical quality to virgin plastics”rejoices in a press release the French giant, supplied with plastic waste by Paprec and by the eco-organization Citeo.

The ambitions remain modest: the site can manage up to 15,000 tonnes of waste per year, i.e. less than 0.3% of the 5.5 million tonnes of household packaging placed on the French market in 2024according to Citeo. Given current capacity, it will produce enough to fill at best one truck per day with pyrolysis oil, again a drop in the bucket.

Criticisms of the “myth” of recycling

The economic model for chemical recycling of plastic “is still to be built” and it “will take years before the activity is significant in terms of volumes” produced, admitted to AFP at the beginning of February Jean-Yves Daclin, general manager France of Plastics Europeorganization of the plastics industry. The process is energy-intensive and expensive, and demand is still low, for now.

Author of Plastic Inc.a book on a sector which has never produced so much – 430.9 million tonnes of virgin plastic worldwide in 2024 – Beth Gardiner notes that pyrolysis oil must “be mixed with a large quantity of virgin naphtha” from petroleum to make plastic again. “The industry is really trying to convince that chemical recycling is the miracle solution” to the proliferation of plastic waste, but “the evidence is lacking,” continues the journalist.

The NGO Zero Waste also criticizes the process for maintaining the “myth” of infinite recycling of plastic, while this material degrades throughout its life.

However, chemical recycling is one of the options retained by the authorities to combat pollution generated by plastic packaging.and the 27 states of the European Union approved in early February the integration of this technology into the mandatory share of recycled content in plastic bottles.

If I lost my entire skincare bag, this £9 serum is the first product I’d rebuy

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If I lost my entire skincare bag, this £9 serum is the first product I’d rebuy

For the last year, I’ve been promising to do an audit of my skincare drawer. As a beauty writer, it’s my job to stay across the latest launches landing on our shelves (and TikTok feeds). But with new ingredients, products and brands popping up almost daily, that means my cupboards regularly creak with the weight of various serums, supplements and face sunscreens.

The irony is that I’m naturally minimalist, and pretty frugal, too. Clutter drives me crazy, as does an overpriced product that does the same job as a £5 pharmacy alternative. I stick to a four-step skincare routine, I’m a chronic outfit repeater, and the same gold jewellery stays on my body day in, day out.

So, when I finally did the clear-out last month, I managed to cut my skincare drawer down from more than 40 products to just six. The easiest “yes” when it came to what to keep? The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 Hydrating Serum. It has been in my routine since 2021, and when I briefly ran out back in January, my dehydrated skin was the first thing my dermatologist noticed.

What does The Ordinary’s Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 Hydrating Serum do?

The primary job of any hyaluronic acid is to hydrate the skin, leaving your complexion looking plumper, brighter and more dewy. Go looking, and you’ll find there’s no shortage of hyaluronic acid serums on the market (we’ve got an entire guide on how to use hyaluronic acid for the unacquainted, BTW). So, what makes The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 stand out?

For starters, each £8.80 bottle contains five forms of hyaluronic acid with different molecular weights, each of which do slightly different things to your skin.

“Low molecular weight hyaluronic acid can penetrate deeper into the skin, helping deliver hydration within the upper layers of the epidermis,” explains aesthetician and founder of Elenique Skin Clinic, Elena Cudworth. “Higher molecular weight hyaluronic acid remains on the surface, forming a hydrating film that supports and protects the skin barrier.”

Beyond hydration, the formula is particularly well suited to sensitive or reactive skin types because it contains vitamin B5 alongside ceramides, which help to support the skin barrier. “Hyaluronic acid acts as an effective carrier for other skincare ingredients,” explains Cudworth, “helping antioxidants, vitamins and soothing agents absorb more effectively.”

I followed Glamour’s strict testing protocols before writing this review.

How I tested The Ordinary’s Hyaluronic Acid:

As mentioned, I’ve been using The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 Hydrating Serum for the past five years. Since 2021. I switched to the updated ceramide-infused version when it launched in 2024, and it’s remained a staple in my skincare routine ever since. This review is not written as a result of a quick, fleeting obsession. I’ve literally waited for half-a-decade to tell you about it.

It’s worth noting that over the past month in particular, I’ve paid closer attention to exactly what keeps me coming back to it. I’ve noted how effectively it hydrates my skin to its texture (lightweight), smell, how quickly it driesand how well it sits under makeup. I also considered its price point compared with other hyaluronic acid serums on the market, how easily it fits alongside the other products in my routine, and how consistently it helps keep my skin clear.

My conclusions are based on twice-daily use, morning and evening, after cleansing and before moisturising. In the evening, I add one extra step: a salicylic acid treatment before the hyaluronic acid to gently exfoliate and help dissolve any buildup from the day that could otherwise clog my pores.

Why you can trust me:

Shani Cohen joined me in testing The Ordinary’s Hyaluronic Acid Serum, to ensure my review stacked up.

As a health and beauty writer, I’ve been interviewing doctors, dermatologists and facialists for the past three years, and have developed a finely tuned eye for a fad. I’ve also been on my own hormone rebalancing journey, which brought me face-to-face with adult acne in my mid-twenties, so I understand first-hand the frustration when your skin isn’t playing ball.

In the name of journalism, I’ve undergone countless treatments and skincare consultations, from buccal massages and EMFACE facials to red light therapy and lymphatic drainage. Time and again, experts have recommended hyaluronic acid, highlighting its role in hydration, plumping and supporting the skin barrier, which is why this product has become a cornerstone in both my routine.

When it comes to my The Ordinary HA review specifically, you can also trust that I haven’t just gone off my own gut instinct. Every product works differently on different skin types, to ensure my claims are backed up, I enlisted the help of Glamour’s Shani Cohen (Beauty Writer, with half a decade’s worth of experience) to test the product, too. You can find her thoughts below.

My experience using The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 Hydrating Serum:

My skin has had quite the journey throughout my twenties. I’m a regular runner and spent over three years living and working in London, which means my skin has faced its fair share of pollution and dehydrating winter winds.

Breakouts tend to appear when my routine slips, which is why for the past few months I’ve been religious about using The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 Hydrating Serum twice daily.

What I love most is how simple it is to use. The bottle, available in 30ml or 60ml, fits easily into a gym or overnight bag, so I’m never without it. I apply it straight after double cleansing whilst my skin is still damp, and find that it creates a lovely cooling feeling on my skin.

Since I use it every day, I’ve also noticed how well it pairs with the other products in my routine, from my Simple Kind To Skin Hydrating Light Moisturiser to my Trinny London BFF 30 SPF, both of which glide easily over the top. Honestly, though, I could match it with just about anything, especially since the formula was updated to a lighter, less tacky consistency. I always notice that my complexion looks brighter straight away, and after about a week of consistent use, my pores are noticeably less clogged. I also rarely need to replace it, as a 30ml bottle easily lasts two months. For anyone who constantly forgets to stockpile skincare in advance, that’s no small blessing.

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My skin before using The Ordinary’s Hyaluronic Acid serum.

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My skin after using The Ordinary’s Hyaluronic Acid serum.

The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 60ml

Shani’s experience using The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 Hydrating Serum:

“This drugstore hyaluronic acid serum not only carries an affordable price tag, but it also easily matches other products on the market when it comes to quality,” Shani told me. While she noted she felt it to be a little ‘tacky’ when it dried on her skin, she was “impressed with its formulation, which combines 5 different types of low, medium and high-molecular weight of the hyaluronic acid” – particularly for the price. “It also features a HA cross-polymer as well as vitamin B5,” Shani told me, “delivering “multi-depth” hydration and visibly more plumped skin. One of the best budget options around.”

How to apply The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 Hydrating Serum

The hydrating serum comes in a bottle with a handy pipette, making it easy to apply a few drops directly onto your skin. I use three drops straight after cleansing, placing them on my forehead and cheeks, then gently massaging in an upward motion with my fingers.

Because hyaluronic acid binds to water, it works best “after cleansing, whilst the skin is still slightly damp,” explains aesthetician Millicent Rose, founder of Millicent Rose Skin Clinic. “Follow with a moisturiser to lock in the hydration.”

Can you use The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 Hydrating Serum everyday?

Thanks to the lightweight, gentle formula, The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 Hydrating Serum is safe to use everyday, and actually is recommended for both morning and evening use. “Consistency is what really helps keep the skin looking hydrated and healthy,” says Rose.

Is The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 Hydrating Serum worth it?

I’d confidently recommend The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 Hydrating Serum for most people, regardless of age or skin type. It’s refreshingly affordable, properly hydrating, and gentle enough to layer with most other products in your routine.

For those with sensitive skin like mine, it’s especially good thanks to the added vitamin B5. I’ve never found it to cause breakouts or irritation, and it consistently leaves my skin looking plump and dewy, to the point where I don’t feel I have to wear makeup thanks to the glassy clean-pore finish it leaves.

I’m also all about a product that lasts, and The Ordinary’s Hyaluronic Acid certainly does that. I’m about three-quarters of the way through my current bottle, which I bought six weeks ago. With twice-daily use, it will easily last two months, meaning this hydrating hero costs less than £60 a year. For everything it does, that makes it an essential in my drawer.

The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 60ml

Meet the experts

  • Millicent Rose is a London facialist known for her results-driven, bespoke approach to skin health. From her Fitzrovia clinic, she blends advanced technologies with personalised treatment plans to deliver radiant, natural-looking skin and long-term results.
  • Elena Cudworth is a highly trained clinical aesthetics practitioner and the founder of Elenique Skin
  • Care Clinic in Fulham. With over a decade of hands-on experience, her work is grounded in the belief that no two skins or clients are the same, and that exceptional results come from taking the time to understand the individual behind the treatment.

Why We Redefined Fruit Pigments – 100% PURE

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Why We Redefined Fruit Pigments – 100% PURE

In 2026, the definition of “clean beauty” is no longer what it used to be.

For years, the industry has focused on exclusion—free from this, free from that. A long list of what is removed became the badge of honour. But as consumers become more informed, a new question is emerging:

What is actually proven to be safe, stable, and effective?

Because removing harmful ingredients is only half the story. What remains must still perform, remain stable over time, and support the skin without compromise.

At 100% PUREthis moment is not a shift away from our values. It is an evolution of them.

We are setting a New Standard of Clean—one that bridges our heritage of fruit-pigmented innovation with the precision of modern science. A standard where purity is not assumed, but proven through performance, safety, and transparency.

This is not change for the sake of trend.

This is Radical Integrity in action.

Performance Meets Purity: The Hybrid Pigment Model

For over two decades, Fruit Pigmented® cosmetics have been the soul of 100% PURE.

Using pigments derived from fruits, vegetables, and botanicals, the brand redefined what makeup could be—vibrant, antioxidant-rich, and free from synthetic dyes.

But as formulations evolved and safety standards advanced, one truth became clear:

Not all natural pigments behave the same under real-world conditions.

The Shift to Purity 2.0

Welcome to Purity 2.0—a hybrid pigment model that combines:

  • Fruit Pigments® for antioxidant richness and biological harmony
  • Lab-Refined Minerals for stability, consistency, and performance

This is not a compromise. It is a strategic upgrade.

Because for the Wise Skin consumer—someone who understands that sensitivity is a form of intelligence—stability matters just as much as purity.

An unstable pigment, even if natural, can oxidise, degrade, or interact unpredictably with the skin barrier. This can lead to irritation, uneven wear, or reduced efficacy.

In contrast, a lab-refined mineralpurified to exact specifications, offers:

  • Consistent colour payoff
  • Oxidation resistance
  • Reduced risk of contamination
  • Predictable skin compatibility

In this hybrid model, fruit pigments remain the heart—the antioxidant soul of the formulation—while minerals provide the structural backbone that ensures performance.

The result is colour that is not only clean, but reliably beautiful.

MOCRA Compliance: Safety is the New Luxury

In 2026, clean beauty is no longer self-defined. It is regulated, measured, and substantiated.

This is where MOCRA compliant beauty becomes essential.

The Modernization of Cosmetics Regulation Act (MOCRA) introduces a new era of accountability in the beauty industry. It requires brands to demonstrate safety through documented testing, ingredient traceability, and rigorous quality control.

At Purity Parkthe San Jose research facility behind 100% PURE formulations, every pigment—whether fruit-derived or mineral—is screened for:

  • Heavy metals
  • Microbial contamination
  • Stability under various conditions
  • Dermal compatibility

This level of scrutiny ensures that every product meets the highest standards of safety.

While some brands quietly adjust behind the scenes, we are choosing transparency.

Because true clean beauty is not about hiding complexity.

It is about explaining it with clarity.

Conscious Chemistry: Why We Refine Where It Matters

The word “lab-refined” often carries unnecessary stigma.

In reality, refinement is not the opposite of nature—it is a way of enhancing its safety and precision.

What “Lab-Refined” Really Means

Lab-refined minerals are derived from natural sources but undergo purification processes to remove impurities such as heavy metals, toxins, and unstable compounds.

This results in nature-identical ingredients that are:

  • Chemically consistent
  • Highly stable
  • Safe for repeated skin contact

Unrefined natural materials, while appealing in theory, can vary significantly in composition depending on their source, harvest conditions, and environmental exposure.

For example, mineral pigments in their raw state may contain trace contaminants that are not visible but can impact skin health over time.

Refinement ensures that what touches your skin is not just natural—but safe at a pharmaceutical standard.

Strategic Pragmatism: Engineering Better Results

At 100% PURE, this approach is guided by what we call Strategic Pragmatism.

We do not use ingredients simply because they are natural.

We use them because they are proven to perform and protect.

This philosophy recognises that modern consumers expect more from their products. They want:

  • Makeup that stays vibrant throughout the day
  • Formulas that do not oxidise or fade unevenly
  • Ingredients that support, rather than stress, the skin barrier

By combining fruit pigments with lab-refined minerals, we are delivering Vibrant Joy with 2026-level safety.

This is not about following the industry.

It is about leading it forward.

Radiant Canvas: Preparing Skin for the New Standard

High-performance colour begins with a healthy foundation.

Even the most advanced pigments cannot perform optimally on a compromised skin barrier. Dryness, texture irregularities, and inflammation can affect how makeup sits, wears, and interacts with the skin.

For the Wise Skin consumer, preparation is not optional—it is essential.

The Role of Barrier Health

The outermost layer of the skin, known as the stratum corneumfunctions as a protective barrier composed of corneocytes and lipids.

When this barrier is intact:

  • Moisture is retained
  • Irritants are kept out
  • Makeup applies smoothly and evenly

When compromised:

  • Pigments may cling unevenly
  • Texture becomes more visible
  • Sensitivity increases

This is why skincare is not separate from makeup. It is the foundation of performance.

The Ritual Integration

To support this philosophy, the 100% PURE ritual prepares the skin to receive hybrid pigments with clarity and balance.

Step 1: Gentle Preparation

Calendula Flower Cleansing Milk

A calm canvas begins with gentle cleansing. This milky formula removes impurities while preserving essential lipids, ensuring the barrier remains intact.

Calendula’s soothing properties help reduce inflammation, creating an ideal base for subsequent treatments.

Step 2: Surface Refinement

Matcha Oat Face Scrub

This soothing face scrub uses finely milled oats to gently remove dead skin cells while depositing calming lipids.

Matcha contributes antioxidant catechins that neutralise oxidative stress, ensuring the skin remains balanced and protected.

The result is a smoother surface that allows pigments to glide seamlessly.

Step 3: Barrier Restoration

Matcha Oat Milk Nourishing Mask

This step delivers concentrated hydration and soothing compounds, particularly beta-glucans from oats, which help calm inflammation and reinforce the barrier.

A calm, hydrated surface ensures that pigments adhere evenly and remain comfortable throughout wear.

Step 4: Lipid Reinforcement

Intensive Nourishing Facial Oil

Facial oils replenish essential fatty acids within the barrier, improving elasticity and preventing moisture loss.

This step ensures that the skin remains supple, allowing makeup to sit naturally without emphasising dryness.

Step 5: Protective Finish

Seaberry Moisturizer

Rich in vitamins A, C, and E, this moisturiser locks in hydration while providing antioxidant protection.

The result is a plump, resilient canvas that supports the Vibrant Joy of hybrid pigments throughout the day.

Conclusion

The future of beauty is not defined by what we remove.

It is defined by what we prove.

At 100% PURE, the evolution of Fruit Pigmented® cosmetics into a hybrid pigment model represents a deeper commitment to our values—not a departure from them.

By combining the antioxidant richness of fruit pigments with the precision of lab-refined minerals, we are creating a new category of clean beauty:

Purity Proven. Performance Delivered. Safety Guaranteed.

This is the next generation of 100% PURE.

A space where your health and your desire for high-performance colour are no longer in conflict—but perfectly aligned.

FAQ

Are fruit pigments still used in the new formulas?

Yes. Fruit pigments remain the heart of our formulations. They provide antioxidant benefits and maintain the botanical integrity that defines our colour philosophy. The addition of minerals enhances performance without replacing this core identity.

What does “MOCRA compliant” mean for me?

MOCRA compliance ensures that every ingredient in your product has undergone rigorous safety evaluation. This includes testing for contaminants, stability, and skin compatibility. It represents a new standard of transparency and protection for consumers.

Why is 100% PURE using minerals now?

Lab-refined minerals provide the stability, consistency, and vibrant payoff required for modern clean beauty. By combining them with fruit pigments, we achieve high-performance results while maintaining toxin-free safety and skin compatibility.

35 Best Wedding Guest Dresses, Approved By A Recent Bride

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35 Best Wedding Guest Dresses, Approved By A Recent Bride

Luckily, there is very little in the way of a wedding guest dress rule book – other than no white, obvs. My top tips are: don’t outshine the bride or bridesmaids, and try not to opt for something you’d wear on a night out (i.e. anything too revealing) – grandparents will likely be present, remember.

If you’re worried about budget, there are plenty of affordable wedding guest dresses on the high street that look endlessly more expensive than they actually are, so you needn’t spend a fortune, and you should always shop your own wardrobe first. Don’t stress about buying a wedding guest outfit on top of a wedding gift and hen party look when you probably already own exactly what you’re looking for. That said, there’s plenty of inspo below if you really can’t find a thing.

How I tested the best wedding guest dresses

This year, I’ve got three weddings and each member of the Glamour team also has at least two – anyone else at that age where every friend seems to be tying the knot/buying a house/having babies? So while my expertise in finding the best wedding guest dresses is self-proclaimed, you could argue it’s totally justified. I know exactly what’s trending because I’ve been searching for it and testing them myself, and I also know that budget is just as important as quality and style.

As a consumers, I think it’s ideal when you get to see what a dress looks like on a few different bodies before making a decision on purchasing. So that’s exactly what I’ve done below. I roped in a few colleagues and together we’ve tried on our favourite new-in styles to show you how they sit/fit/move on us as well as the gorgeous models on the websites. You’re welcome.

Arlena Black High-Neck Wrapped Maxi Dress

Georgia Trodd wearing Club L.

5 Women on What It’s Really Like to Be in Menopause Before 40

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5 Women on What It’s Really Like to Be in Menopause Before 40

Evian, whose friends also couldn’t relate, ran into a different kind of friction. Because her menopause was the result of curative surgery for her cancer, many of her loved ones thought she should just be thankful that she didn’t have cancer anymore, she says. “A lot of people didn’t understand that two things could be true: I could be grateful for my life and also very upset about what was happening to my life, that I no longer had a uterus.”

The sexual side effects can be especially difficult to navigate at a young age.

The way the vagina can change during medical menopause from “waterfalls to the freakin’ Sahara desert,” as Evian puts it, can really throw your sex life for a loop. A drop in estrogen may cause vulvovaginal tissue to shrivel, and become dry and prone to tearing—which can make sex, particularly penetration, seriously painful. “For the first time in my life, at 30-something years old, I had to look at my husband and be like, ‘Okay, we have to go get lube,’” Evian says. “It took a toll on my marriage, and it was also just heartbreaking to not feel as sexy, or sensual, or any of those things that make it fun to be a woman.”

Pettit was less than a year into dating her now-husband at the time of her cancer treatment, when she began experiencing vaginal dryness. “We would sometimes attempt to be intimate, but I often cut it short because it was very painful,” says Pettit, who was taken off the menopause-inducing drugs after wrapping up chemo. At a certain point during treatment, as she grew wary of the pain, and her partner became afraid of hurting her, it started to not feel worth it to try, “even with lube,” she says, “and we had to be open and honest about that. She has since become a mom.

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