Home Blog Page 29

What happened to Hayden Panettiere? The actor reveals her experience of Hollywood misogyny

0

By now, we’re all well aware of the ways pervasive misogyny has impacted women in Hollywood, from #MeToo to sexism and inequality behind the scenes. And yet, each time another woman industry opens up about her experiences, it still feels shocking. The latest to come forward is Hayden Panettiere, whose new book, This Is Me: A Reckoningrecounts an incident with a “very famous” man on a boat – when she was only 18.

The now 36-year-old has been in showbiz since she was a baby, first appearing in commercials before graduating onto bigger projects that eventually turned her into a household name. From Heroes and Nashville to Bring It On: All Or Nothing and Scream 4she quickly became one of the most booked, busy and versatile young actors in Hollywood.

Now, after taking a career break in 2018, Panettiere is back with an unflinching new memoir (out 19 May), pulling back the curtain to reveal her off-camera struggles. Amongst honest writing about her postpartum depression, addiction and giving up custody of her daughter, the actor also opens up about the earlier traumas that shaped her growing up – including the incident on the boat. Here’s everything we know so far.

What happened to Hayden Panettiere on the boat?

Speaking to Jay Shetty during an in-depth interview about her new book, Panettiere explained how, at 18, she was brought onto a boat and taken to a room with a “very famous” naked man on the bed, with whom she was coerced to perform sexual acts. The worst part? The person who’d put her in the situation was someone she’d trusted.

“It was led by somebody that I had grown to trust and see as a protector and somebody who had my back,” she explained. And up until that point, nothing seemed suspicious – they were just having a fun night on a boat. “There was no hints of anything like that happening. So it took me by surprise.”

But it was her friend that, quite literally, put her in the disturbing situation. “She physically put me in the bed next to this undressed man,” she said. As for the man in question, he was apparently relaxed on the bed, “like this was just an average day for him.”

Rihanna Kids Drawing Tattoo: The Sweetest New Ink

0

Photo Credit: Amy Sussman/Getty Images

Rihanna just proved she is the ultimate cool mom by turning her kids’ art into permanent ink. While most of us stick our toddlers’ drawings on the fridge with a magnet, the Fenty mogul decided her skin was the better canvas. It is such a sweet, relatable move that makes us love her even more.

The new tattoo features a charmingly chaotic scribble by her sons, RZA and Riot. Instead of a high fashion design or a complex symbol, she chose something raw and personal. It captures that fleeting moment of childhood perfectly. You can almost imagine her sitting on the floor with them before deciding that their little doodle was masterpiece enough for a tattoo parlor.

3100
Photo Credit: IG @bangbangnyc

Seeing a global icon embrace the messy, beautiful reality of motherhood is so refreshing. We are used to seeing her in couture on the red carpet, but this choice feels so grounded. It is a permanent reminder of her life as a mom first and a superstar second. Honestly, it makes me want to look at my own kids’ stick figure drawings a little differently.

If you are thinking about your next ink, taking a page out of Rihanna’s book might be the way to go. There is nothing more stylish than wearing your heart, and your children’s creativity, on your sleeve. It is sentimental, unique, and proves that her best collaborations yet are the ones she made with her family.

Jones Road ‘Your Skin’ Foundation Stick Is Here And It Looks Better Than Foundation Should

0

Last Updated on May 12, 2026 by omgbart

I don’t wear foundation. I don’t need foundation. What I need is something that cancels out redness, evens my skin, and disappears before anyone notices it was there. The Jones Road Your Skin Foundation Stick does exactly that. I’ve had it for a week and it has already replaced Just Enough as my daily go-to, which I did not see coming.

Jones Road foundation options and comparison

For context: I came around to What The Foundation slowly. The texture won me over before the formula did, and mastering it took time. Just Enough was a much easier sell. But when I heard a stick was coming, I was genuinely excited. Controlled, portable, subtle coverage with no brushes required felt like the brief I had been waiting for someone to fill.

Jones Road foundation stick in neutral beige application

I got lucky. A week before the launch, I was shade-matched by Bobbi Brown’s own artist and left the Jones Road office with Neutral Beige and the brand new Face Blending Brush. I can’t think of a better way to spend a Monday.

Jones Road foundation stick and brush on the bathroom counter

What the formula actually is

Your Skin is an anhydrous stick, meaning there is no water in the formula. The structure comes from a blend of synthetic wax, coconut-derived esters, and polymers, and that combination produces one of the smoothest application experiences I have had with any makeup product. The drag on the skin is controlled without being forced. It glides, it blends, and it does not pull.

Jones Road Foundation Stick and tinted moisturizer on the bathroom counter

Jones Road also includes Ceramide NP, Sodium Hyaluronate, Squalane, and Vitamins C and E. I want to be clear about what that means and what it does not mean. A foundation stick will not brighten your complexion, fade discoloration, or firm expression lines. Anyone who tells you otherwise is selling something harder than makeup.

Swatches of Jones Road foundation stick, WTF and Just Enough tinted moisturizer

What these ingredients do is change how a formula feels and performs. Skincare actives in makeup tend to produce a more treatment-like texture, a more natural finish, and a user experience that does not feel like you are applying paint. That is the real benefit, and it is a legitimate one.

Shade swatches of Jones Road foundation stick and cream

Shade range and what Neutral Beige actually does

Your Skin launches in 30 shades, from Pale Alabaster to Espresso. For those of us who wear Beige in WTF or Just Enough but find it running slightly warm, Neutral Beige is worth trying. It sits between light and medium with genuinely neutral undertones. On my skin it reads as nothing, which is the point. Redness and unevenness disappear. The shade does not show up as color on the skin. It just corrects.

Blending Jones Road foundation stick with a brush

How it performs

The Jones Road Your Skin Foundation Stick gets a difficult balance right: coverage without the makeup look. It is not matte, not flat, and not the least bit shiny. The finish is satin with a healthy glow that reads as good skin rather than product.

I apply after my serum and SPF, spot-glide it over my cheeks, temples, and forehead, then blend with my fingers. I use the brush around my nose, hairline, and facial hair to avoid streaks. I will also say: do a mirror check before you leave the house. Minimalism and carelessness are not the same thing. I have learned this firsthand.

As subtle and natural as Your Skin looks upon application, it is also the most pigment-forward formula Jones Road offers for all-over face color. What I mean is the controlled application and pigment payoff make it ideal if you wish to build up coverage.

Jones Road foundation stick and blending brush on the bathroom counter

Who is Your Skin Foundation Stick for

Best suited to anyone who wants coverage without the coverage look. Dry and more mature skin will find the emollient base and satin finish particularly flattering. Oily skin is a different story and setting powder may become your best friend. If you have always felt that foundation was too much, too obvious, or just not for you, start here.

Foundation Stick and Blending Brush by Jones Road

Your Skin is now the Jones Road product I reach for most. It is fast, it is precise, and the payoff holds. If you have been waiting for a Jones Road formula that works like makeup but feels like nothing, this is it. I said at the top that I don’t wear foundation. I stand by that. What I wear now is Your Skin. It just happens to be the exception.

$38 (7.6g) at jonesroadbeauty.com


This post contains affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission—at no cost to you. It helps keep my mist habit funded and this blog running. Thank you for reading.


Why London’s art scene is flocking to this 5-star hotel in Barcelona

0

When I walked into the Joséphine Baker Suite at El Palace Barcelona, I felt more connected to the late entertainer than I thought imaginable. Having first learned about Baker’s astonishing life during a childhood visit to the Château des Milandes in Castelnaud, France, I’ve spent much of my adult travels inadvertently retracing the cultural footsteps she left around the world. From the Théatre des Champs-Elysées in Paris, where she performed the Charleston, to my latest holiday destination, El Palace, where the dancer-turned-resistance-fighter-turned-activist stayed during her visits to Catalonia in the 1950s.

2026 is a particularly significant year for the Catalan capital, with the city celebrating several cultural milestones. Not only has Barcelona been designated as a UNESCO World Capital of Architecture, but, come June, the Sagrada Família is expected to be completed, officially making it the tallest church in the world. 2026 also marks 100 years since the death of Antoni Gaudí, the fabled architect behind the Sagrada Família, Park Güell, and the modernist buildings Casa Batlló and La Pedrera along Passeig de Gràcia. As the city ramps up celebrations of Gaudí’s enduring legacy, the five-star hotel El Palace Barcelona will be launching a series of cultural experiences for locals and tourists alike to honour the Year of Gaudí.

El Palace Barcelona, formerly the Ritz, first opened its doors in 1919, just in time to welcome the city’s glorious Jazz Age, hosting all manner of artists, musicians, and writers. While the historic building has seen many a luxury renovation (and a coveted 5-star rating) over the past 105 years, its creative soul has been carefully preserved. No wonder arty types from across the world – and in my experience, London – have El Palace on their travel bucket lists. As one such art fiend, read on for my honest review of El Palace Barcelona.

The Palace Hotel Barcelona

El Palace Hotel Review:

Jump to:

El Palace Barcelona sits within the Eixample District, a mere eight-minute walk from Passeig de Gràcia and 25 minutes to 25-minute stroll to the Sagrada Familia. It’s an ideal location for getting the most out of Barcelona’s art scene. As well as the more traditional tourist attractions, you can get a better sense of the city’s cultural history at the Palau de la Música Catalana, the only concert hall designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, only a 10-minute walk from the hotel, the Atenue Barcelonès, a cultural centre with over 160 years of history, a 15-minute walk from El Palace, and the Moco Museum, an independent museum set inside the 16th-century Palau Cervelló with a wide range of inspiring modern, contemporary and street art works, a 21-minute walk.

El Palace Barcelona has 114 rooms and suites, each embodying the hotel’s signature neoclassical-inspired, elegant style. The Grand Deluxe and Classic rooms have stunning views of the Gran Vía, while the Superior Suites offer a living room and bedroom, and the Junior Suites offer views of a quintessential Barcelona courtyard.

Everything You Need to Know Before You Book – Kate Somerville US

0

What people want from lip filler today is very different from the trends that defined it a few years ago. Most patients today aren’t looking for lips that dominate the face, but rather better balance, softer definition, restored hydration, and subtle volume that still looks like them.

If you’re considering lip filler for the first time, or reconsidering it after seeing results that felt overdone, this guide will walk you through what lip filler actually does, how different techniques affect the final result, what pricing typically looks like, and what separates natural-looking enhancement from filler that feels obvious.

What Is Lip Filler?

Lip filler is an injectable treatment used to add volume, shape, structure, and definition to the lips. Most lip fillers used today are made from hyaluronic acid, a substance your body naturally produces on its own, which is part of why the treatment is generally so well tolerated.

Hyaluronic acid fillers work by attracting and holding water within the tissue. That added hydration creates softness and volume without making the lips feel firm or unnatural when the treatment is done properly.

One of the reasons lip filler remains so popular is that it’s also reversible. An enzyme called hyaluronidase can dissolve hyaluronic acid filler relatively quickly if needed, making it one of the more flexible and forgiving injectable treatments available.

What filler cannot do is completely change the natural anatomy of your lips or fully correct significant asymmetry on its own. The best results come from understanding what lip filler is realistically capable of improving, and building a treatment plan around that rather than chasing a completely different lip shape altogether.

Types of Lip Filler

Not all hyaluronic acid fillers behave the same way, and the product your injector chooses can influence how the final result looks and feels.

The two most commonly used filler families for lips are Juvéderm and Restylane. Both are hyaluronic acid-based, both are well studied, and both include multiple formulations designed for different treatment goals.

The differences come down to things like texture, flexibility, cohesivity, and how the filler integrates within the tissue.

Juvéderm fillers generally have a smoother, softer consistency, which can create a fuller or more hydrated-looking result. Restylane formulations tend to be slightly firmer and more structured, which some injectors prefer when focusing on border definition, shape, or precise structural support.

Neither is universally better.

The right filler depends on your anatomy, lip shape, movement, desired outcome, and the technique of the injector using it. A skilled provider chooses the product based on the treatment plan, not based on trends or brand preference alone.

Lip Filler Techniques

Once the right filler is chosen, technique becomes the next major factor shaping the final result.

Classic lip filler focuses on balanced volume, softer borders, improved hydration, and subtle shape enhancement. When done well, the lips look fuller and more defined without looking obviously filled.

Russian lip filler approaches the lips differently.

Instead of creating more forward projection, the technique focuses on height, structure, and definition. Filler is placed in smaller, more precise deposits to create a flatter side profile, a sharper cupid’s bow, and a more sculpted result overall.

The effect is less pillowy and more structured, which is part of why the technique became so popular with patients looking for enhancement that still feels refined and natural.

At the same time, Russian lip filler is not automatically better, and it’s not the right fit for every lip shape.

The technique requires a high level of injector skill and a strong understanding of lip anatomy. Lip structure, tissue thickness, movement, and existing volume all influence whether someone is a good candidate for it.

Lip Flip vs. Lip Filler

These treatments are often grouped together, but they do very different things.

Lip filler adds volume, structure, and definition using hyaluronic acid filler. The result is more visible lip volume, along with changes to shape and projection depending on the technique used.

A lip flip works through muscle relaxation instead.

Using a small amount of Botox placed just above the upper lip, the treatment relaxes the orbicularis oris muscle slightly. That allows the upper lip to roll outward a bit more, creating the appearance of a fuller upper lip without actually adding volume.

The effect is subtle. Most patients notice:

  • Slightly more upper lip show,

  • a softer upper lip border,

  • and less disappearing of the upper lip when smiling.

A lip flip is not a replacement for filler. It’s a different treatment designed for a different outcome.

It tends to work best for patients who want a very subtle enhancement, who feel their upper lip disappears when they smile, or who want to ease into lip enhancement before committing to filler.

The two treatments can also be combined. Filler can create structure and volume, while a lip flip can refine the upper lip border and improve lip show.

How Much Does Lip Filler Cost?

Lip filler is typically priced per syringe. Nationally, most treatments fall somewhere between $600 and $1,200 per syringe. You can see the details of lip filler pricing at the Kate Somerville Clinic here.

Most first-time patients start with one syringe, which is usually enough to create noticeable but natural-looking improvement in shape, hydration, and definition. Patients with naturally thinner lips or those looking for more structural enhancement may require additional filler over time.

Several factors influence pricing.

  • Location plays a role. Clinics in markets like Los Angeles, New York City, and Miami generally price higher than national averages, in part because demand for experienced injectors is significantly more competitive.

  • The injector plays a major role in pricing as well. Experience, anatomical knowledge, aesthetic judgment, and injection technique all influence outcomes, and pricing often reflects that level of expertise.

  • The filler itself can also affect cost. Different hyaluronic acid formulations are designed to behave differently within the lips, and some products carry higher price points than others depending on their structure and intended use.

Most clinics also offer financing options for patients who prefer to spread treatment costs out over time.

What to Expect Before, During, and After Lip Filler

Before

Every lip filler treatment begins with a consultation. Your injector should assess your lip anatomy, facial proportions, movement, and skin quality before deciding on product, placement, or technique.

Most patients are also advised to avoid blood-thinning substances like aspirin, ibuprofen, fish oil, and alcohol for several days beforehand to help minimize bruising and swelling.

During

A topical numbing cream is typically applied before treatment, and most modern fillers also contain lidocaine to make the process more comfortable as the injections are performed.

The appointment itself usually takes about 30 to 45 minutes. Most patients describe the treatment as uncomfortable in certain areas, but very manageable overall.

After

Swelling is completely normal, and it’s often more significant than first-time patients expect. It usually peaks within the first 24 to 48 hours after treatment.

This is important: swollen lips are not the final result.

Lip filler almost always looks more dramatic during the first few days than it will once the swelling settles and the filler integrates into the tissue. Around the two-week mark is when patients are typically seeing something much closer to the final result.

Bruising is also possible and tends to be more common in the lips than in other treatment areas because the tissue is highly vascular. Most bruising resolves within about a week.

How Long Does Lip Filler Last?

Most hyaluronic acid lip fillers last somewhere between six and twelve monthsthough longevity varies more from patient to patient than many people expect.

The lips are a high-movement area. Talking, eating, drinking, and facial expression all contribute to filler breaking down faster compared to more static areas of the face. Your metabolism also plays a role, which is why some patients naturally process filler more quickly than others.

Technique matters too. Filler placed too superficially often dissolves faster and can look less natural over time. Proper placement within the tissue helps create a result that not only looks better, but tends to last longer as well.

Many patients also find that maintenance appointments produce the most consistent long-term results. Rather than waiting for filler to disappear completely, smaller touch-ups over time often maintain shape and definition more naturally and typically require less product overall.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much filler do I need for my lips?

Most first-time patients start with one syringe. When placed properly, that’s usually enough to create noticeable improvement in shape, hydration, and definition without looking overfilled.

The right amount ultimately depends on your anatomy, lip structure, and the type of result you want to achieve.

Is lip filler painful?

Most patients find lip filler very manageable. A topical numbing cream is applied beforehand, and most modern fillers also contain lidocaine to reduce discomfort during treatment.

The injections themselves are quick, with most patients rating the discomfort around a 3 or 4 out of 10.

Can lip filler be reversed?

Yes. Hyaluronic acid filler can be dissolved using hyaluronidase, an enzyme that breaks down the filler relatively quickly if needed.

That reversibility is one of the reasons hyaluronic acid fillers remain the standard for lip enhancement.

What’s the difference between Russian lip filler and traditional lip filler?

Russian lip filler focuses more on vertical height, structure, and cupid’s bow definition, while traditional techniques typically create softer overall volume and projection.

Neither approach is universally better. The right technique depends on your anatomy and the result you want your lips to have both at rest and in motion.

How do I avoid the overfilled look?

Natural-looking filler usually comes down to restraint, proper technique, and long-term planning.

The patients with the most balanced results are often the ones who start conservatively, build gradually if needed, and work with an injector who understands proportion rather than simply adding volume.

In many cases, the overfilled look happens from repeatedly adding filler over time without reassessing overall balance.

Can I combine a lip flip with lip filler?

Yes, and for the right patient, the combination can work very well.

Lip filler adds structure and volume, while a lip flip slightly relaxes the muscle above the upper lip to improve lip show and soften the upper border. Together, they can create a more refined overall result when used appropriately for your anatomy.

Natural-Looking Lip Filler Starts With the Right Approach

The most natural lip filler rarely looks like filler at all. It looks like balance, softness, structure, and features that move more harmoniously together.

At Kate Somerville Clinic on Melrose Place, lip filler is approached with a clinical, anatomy-driven philosophy designed to create enhancement that feels balanced, refined, and natural to your features.

Book Your Consultation

Harper Beckham faces US trademark setback for beauty brand launch

0

THE WHAT? Harper Beckham has reportedly been refused initial trademark approval in the US for her planned beauty brand, Hiku By Harper.

THE DETAILS The US Patent and Trademark Office issued an “initial refusal” against the trademark application, citing a “likelihood of confusion” with existing registered trademarks. According to reports, “Harper” is already trademarked for cleaning products including brooms and scrubbing brushes, while “Haiku” is registered within fragrance and toiletry categories. Harper Beckham, alongside parents David and Victoria Beckham, has six months to respond after filing the application last November. The proposed brand is expected to focus on products for acne-prone teenagers and covers categories including cosmetics, acne treatments, clothing, accessories and beauty tools. Victoria Beckham recently described her daughter as “very ambitious” and “a little entrepreneur,” revealing Harper’s interest in skincare was inspired by her own struggles with acne.

THE WHY? The trademark challenge highlights the growing complexity of securing global beauty brand names as celebrity-backed ventures continue to expand into crowded skincare and cosmetics markets.

Source:  The Sun

Why Texture Matters – 100% PURE

0

Introduction: The Hidden Language of Touch

There is a quiet truth about beauty that is rarely spoken yet deeply felt. Long before we notice glow, coverage, or colour, our bodies respond to something far more immediate touch. The way a product melts, glides, cushions, or disappears into the skin creates an experience that begins not in the mirror, but in the nervous system.

During Mental Health Awareness Month, we often search for ways to feel more grounded, more present, more at ease within ourselves. We turn to meditation, journaling, movement—but overlook one of the most consistent rituals we already perform every single day. Our beauty routine.

What if these few minutes were not simply about appearance, but about regulation?

The skin is not just a surface. It is a highly intelligent sensory organ, embedded with mechanoreceptors that respond to pressure, temperature, and movement. When you apply a product—slowly, intentionally—these receptors send signals through the nervous system that can reduce cortisol, lower heart rate, and shift the body from a state of alertness into calm.

This is not indulgence. It is biology.

At 100% PURE, this understanding forms the foundation of formulation. Beauty is not just engineered to look good—it is designed to feel right. Every butter, every oil, every pigment is crafted with what we often describe as a “Beauty Bakery” philosophy, where textures are layered, balanced, and refined to create moments of sensory harmony.

Because when texture is intentional, something subtle but powerful happens.

Routine becomes ritual.
Application becomes experienced.
And self-care becomes sanctuary.

The Silk of the Serum

The Ultralight Veil of Breathable Beauty

There is a particular kind of relief that comes from lightness. It is the feeling of something present, yet barely there supportive without being restrictive. In skincare and makeup, this sensation is often underestimated, yet it plays a crucial role in how we experience our own skin throughout the day.

The Fruit Pigmented® 2nd Skin Foundation captures this concept through a formulation that behaves less like traditional makeup and more like an extension of the skin itself. Its serum-like consistency is not accidental it is engineered.

From a formulation perspective, lightweight emulsions reduce occlusivity, allowing the skin to maintain its natural respiration and moisture balance. Unlike heavy foundations that rely on dense waxes and synthetic film-formers, this type of fluid texture disperses evenly, forming a micro-thin layer that moves with facial expression.

The result is what can only be described as an ultralight veil.

As it is applied, there is no drag, no resistance only glide. The product melts into the skin’s surface, blurring tone without masking texture. You still look like yourself, only more rested, more even, more luminous.

But the effect goes beyond appearance.

The absence of weight changes perception. The brain interprets heaviness as something to be managed—something to carry. Lightness, on the other hand, signals ease. When your skin feels unburdened, your body responds in kind.

There is less subconscious tension.
Less adjustment.
Less awareness of wearing something.

And in that absence, there is freedom.

This is the silk of the serum—not just in texture, but in experience. It is the quiet reassurance that beauty does not have to be felt as effort.

The Cushion of the Butter

The Melt That Signals Comfort

If lightness is freedom, then softness is safety.

There is something instinctively comforting about the way a rich product melts into the skin. It mirrors experiences we associate with nourishment warmth, care, and protection. This is not coincidence. It is deeply rooted in how the brain interprets tactile information.

The Fruit Pigmented® Gemmed Luminizer embodies this using botanical butters like avocado and cocoa. These ingredients are not only functional they are sensorially intelligent.

Avocado butter is rich in monounsaturated fatty acids, particularly oleic acid, which enhances the permeability of the skin barrier. This allows the product to integrate seamlessly, rather than sit on the surface. Cocoa butter, with its unique crystalline structure, remains firm at room temperature but melts instantly upon contact with body heat.

This transformation is where the experience begins.

As the luminizer warms between your fingertips, it softens shifting from solid to silk. This phase change reduces friction, allowing the product to glide effortlessly across the high points of the face. Cheekbones, brow bones, the bridge of the nose each application becomes a moment of slow, intentional movement.

From a neurological perspective, this matters more than it seems.

Gentle, continuous touch activates C-tactile afferent fibres—specialised nerve pathways linked to emotional processing and pleasure. These signals travel to areas of the brain associated with calm and well-being, reinforcing a sense of comfort and stability.

In simple terms, your skin recognises this as care.

The glow that follows is almost secondary. Yes, the luminizer reflects light beautifully, creating a soft, diffused radiance. But the true transformation happens in the moment of application—the melt, the glide, the pause.

It is indulgence, but without excess.

A quiet luxury.
A tactile exhale.

The Velvet of the Oil and Shine

The Fluidity of Care in Motion

As a beauty routine reaches its final steps, the textures become more refined, more precise. These are the finishing touches—the details that define how the skin feels throughout the day.

The Maracuja Mascara and Fruit Pigmented® Lip Gloss complete this sensory journey through fluid, oil-based formulations that prioritise movement and comfort.

Maracuja oil, extracted from passion fruit seeds, is rich in linoleic acid—an essential fatty acid known for its lightweight structure and rapid absorption. When applied to lashes, it forms a flexible coating that enhances definition without stiffness.

This flexibility is crucial.

Traditional mascaras often rely on rigid polymers that create a fixed structure. While effective for hold, they can introduce a subtle tension—an awareness of something sitting on the lashes. In contrast, an oil-based formula moves with the natural curve and motion of the lashes, maintaining softness throughout the day.

The sensation is barely perceptible.

And that is precisely the point.

Similarly, the Fruit Pigmented® Lip Gloss redefines what shine should feel like. Instead of relying on thick, adhesive textures, it uses Vitamin E and botanical emollients to create a smooth, non-sticky glide.

As it touches the lips, there is no resistance. No pulling. Just a seamless layer of hydration and subtle colour that enhances without overwhelming.

This matters because the lips are one of the most sensitive areas of the face. They are highly innervated, meaning they respond quickly to texture. A heavy or sticky product can feel intrusive, while a silky one feels natural—almost intuitive.

The result is what can only be described as velvet.

Soft. Fluid. Continuous.

A finish that does not sit on the skin, but moves with it breathing, adapting, existing in harmony with every expression.

Conclusion: The Joy of Feeling Beautiful

Beauty, in its most meaningful form, is not something we see. It is something we feel.

The softness of a butter melting into the skin.
The lightness of a serum disappearing without weight.
The glide of an oil that moves without resistance.

These are not small details. They are the foundation of how we experience self-care.

When textures are thoughtfully crafted—when they align with the skin’s biology and the nervous system’s responses—they create something far more powerful than a visual result. They create a moment.

A pause in the morning.
A breath between tasks.
A quiet return to yourself.

This is the essence of mindful beauty.

Not more steps. Not more products.
But more awareness.

At 100% PURE, this philosophy is woven into every formulation. It is the belief that beauty should not only enhance how you look—but transform how you feel in the process.

So tomorrow morning, before you rush through your routine, try something different.

Slow down.
Notice the textures.
Feel the way they move, melt, and settle.

Because sometimes, the most profound form of self-care is not found in what you add—but in what you allow yourself to experience.

And in those few quiet minutes, you may discover something unexpected.

That beauty, at its core, is not about perfection.

It is about presence.

FAQ Section

Why do botanical butters feel better on the skin than synthetics?

Botanical butters contain lipids that closely resemble those naturally found in the skin barrier. This compatibility allows them to integrate more smoothly, reducing friction and enhancing absorption. In contrast, many synthetic textures sit on the surface, creating a heavier or less adaptive feel. The result is that botanical formulations tend to feel softer, more breathable, and more intuitive on the skin.

Can the texture of my makeup actually change my mood?

Yes, and this is supported by neuroscience. The skin is directly connected to the nervous system through sensory receptors. Smooth, lightweight, and fluid textures activate pathways associated with comfort and relaxation, while heavy or sticky textures can create subtle discomfort. Over time, these sensory signals influence mood, making texture a key component of emotional well-being.

Are these creamy textures suitable for all skin types?

Well-formulated creamy textures, especially those based on botanical oils and butters, are designed to adapt. Lightweight oils like maracuja absorb quickly without clogging pores, while balanced butters provide hydration without excessive heaviness. The key lies in formulation quality—when ingredients are carefully selected and proportioned, these textures can support a wide range of skin types, from dry to combination to sensitive.

DERMA E Unveils a Derm-Forward Brand Refresh

0

DERMA E is entering a new era. The clean skin-care brand has unveiled a dermatologist-focused brand refresh, complete with updated packaging, a redesigned website, new social content and a refreshed in-store presence. At the center of it all is the tagline “A lil derm goes a long way,” a nod to the expert-backed formulas and dermatologist guidance the brand is putting front and center.

The brand, which has long been a fixture in the clean beauty world, is leaning into its greatest strength: the fact that dermatologists actually recommend it. In a market overflowing with influencer-hyped launches and ingredient buzzwords, that distinction matters more than ever. “Today’s consumer expects both safety and efficacy—with increasing demand for dermatologist validation alongside ingredient transparency,” says DERMA E General Manager Katie Guild.

The brand is taking the tagline literally and introducing Dr. Anna Karp and Dr. Kunal Malik, who have long worked with DERMA E on formulations, as “mini derms” to help make expert guidance more engaging and approachable. Think: dermatologist advice that doesn’t feel like homework.

To go with the refresh, DERMA E has updated its packaging, refreshed its website, created new social content and reimagined its in-store presence. Of course, the rebrand goes beyond aesthetics, and focuses on on making expert-backed science and accessible skin care one and the same.

Dr Melaxin Peel Shot Exfoliating Black Rice Ampoule Review

0

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

Priced at

Dr Melaxin Peel Shot Exfoliating Black Rice Ampoule Review

I was completely influenced into buying the Dr Melaxin Peel Shot Exfoliating Black Rice Ampoule when I spotted it on the Boots Instagram feed where somebody was demonstrating it in store.

She applied a few drops onto dry skin and started rubbing it in, and all these little balls started forming on the skin, looking very much like dead skin cells lifting away instantly. It was one of those oddly satisfying skincare moments that makes you immediately add to basket. So obviously, I ordered it.

Here’s everything you need to know.

Here’s a quick demo of the Dr.Melaxin Peel Shot Exfoliating Black Rice Ampoule in action:

What is Dr Melaxin Peel Shot Exfoliating Black Rice Ampoule?

What is Dr Melaxin Peel Shot Exfoliating Black Rice Ampoule?
What is Dr Melaxin Peel Shot Exfoliating Black Rice Ampoule?

The Dr Melaxin Peel Shot Exfoliating Black Rice Ampoule is a Korean exfoliating treatment designed to smooth texture, remove dry skin and leave the complexion looking fresh and polished.

It combines gentle exfoliating acids with hydrating ingredients and a cellulose-based formula that creates that signature “rolling” effect on the skin as you massage it in.

The formula contains ingredients including black rice extract, gluconolactone (PHA), salicylic acid, niacinamide, glycerin and squalane, so while there is definitely a bit of theatre involved with the rolling texture, there are also genuine exfoliating and skin-smoothing ingredients in here too.

Key Ingredients

PENTA-RICE Complex – combines Rice Water Extract with PENTAVITIN to exfoliate, soften and hydrate the skin all at the same time. I think this is one of the reasons the Dr Melaxin Peel Shot Exfoliating Black Rice Ampoule leaves skin feeling smooth and polished without that tight or stripped sensation you can sometimes get after exfoliating.

Rice Water Extract – helps to soften the skin and gently refine texture while also keeping excess oil in balance. It gives the complexion that fresh, smooth and really clean feeling after use.

PENTAVITIN – hydrating ingredient that acts almost like a moisture magnet for the skin.

AHA+BHA – exfoliating acid blend helps lift away dead skin cells, smooth rough texture and encourage skin renewal. I think this combination works really nicely because you get effective exfoliation without the formula feeling too aggressive.

Niacinamide – helps support brightness, clarity and overall skin smoothness. It also helps give the skin that fresh, refined look after rinsing everything away.

How to use it

Dr Melaxin Peel Shot Exfoliating Black Rice Ampoule pipette dispenser
Dr Melaxin Peel Shot Exfoliating Black Rice Ampoule pipette dispenser

You apply the Dr Melaxin Peel Shot Exfoliating Black Rice Ampoule onto clean, dry skin and massage it gently over the face. As you work it in, the product starts to form little balls that roll across the skin before you rinse everything away with lukewarm water.

I have used it a few times so far and I use it straight after cleansing. If you are looking for a good cleanser, check out Best Cleansers for 2026 for all Skin Types & Budgets.

My Review

Dr Melaxin Peel Shot Exfoliating Black Rice Ampoule texture
Dr Melaxin Peel Shot Exfoliating Black Rice Ampoule texture

I have to say, the whole exfoliating “balling up” thing is extremely satisfying. I applied a few drops onto dry skin exactly as demonstrated online and started massaging it over my face. Pretty quickly, the formula started rolling up into little pieces and it genuinely feels like you are removing layers of dead skin.

However, and this is important, I absolutely do not think that is dead skin or gunk as many of the viral videos suggest. I think this is down to the Cellulose (which appears quite high up the ingredient list) that clumps together and forms those little balls that make it feel as though you are physically buffing away dead skin. It’s actually

This type of product is often referred to as a “gommage” exfoliator – remember the amazing Gatineau one*? The cellulose physically balls up during massage and helps create that satisfying exfoliating effect on the skin.

Is it a gimmick?

A little bit. But also… not entirely. As well as the cellulose which balls up to create a gentle physical exfoliation, the formula also contains proper exfoliating ingredients including PHA (Gluconolactone) and AHA (salicylic acid), so it is genuinely exfoliating the skin at the same time. For me, the important thing is the result, and the results are pretty good.

My skin felt very smooth afterwards. Not stripped, not tight, not sensitised, just properly polished and soft. It gives the skin that very clean, fresh, shiny look without making it feel over-exfoliated.

It works really well on flaky areas and dry patches and helps remove that rough surface texture that can make makeup sit unevenly. If your foundation has been catching on dry patches or clinging to texture, this works brilliantly at smoothing everything out beforehand.

One slightly odd thing I noticed was that in a couple of areas, the product seemed to cling onto the tiny hairs on my face and almost bind itself to them. I had to remove the little bits and a few hairs definitely came away with it. It wasn’t painful or irritating, just a bit strange, and I thought worth mentioning if you have peach fuzz or facial hair.

Who is it best for?

I think this is especially good for:

  • Rough or textured skin
  • Dry flaky patches
  • Dull skin
  • Congested skin
  • Anyone who loves instantly satisfying skincare

If you are very sensitive or using strong actives like tretinoin, I’d probably use this cautiously.

Final Verdict

The Dr Melaxin Peel Shot Exfoliating Black Rice Ampoule absolutely taps into that viral “look how much stuff is coming off my face” skincare trend, and yes, the rolling effect is definitely part science and part theatre.

But honestly? I still really like it. It leaves my skin feeling smooth, fresh and polished without irritation, and I can completely understand why people get hooked on using it. If you enjoy exfoliating products that give immediate gratification, this is a very fun one to try. I’d avoid over using it though.

Where to buy it

Dr Melaxin Peel Shot Exfoliating Black Rice Ampoule is £21 for 80ml and is available now via the links below:

Dr Melaxin Peel Shot Exfoliating Black Rice Ampoule FAQs

Does Dr Melaxin Peel Shot Exfoliating Black Rice Ampoule really remove dead skin?

The Dr Melaxin Peel Shot creates a rolling effect on the skin that helps physically exfoliate and smooth texture. While not all of the rolled product is dead skin, the formula does leave skin feeling very soft and polished.

How often should you use it?

I think the Dr Melaxin Peel Shot Exfoliating Black Rice Ampoule is best used once or twice weekly depending on your skin type and sensitivity levels.

Is Dr Melaxin Peel Shot Exfoliating Black Rice Ampoule suitable for sensitive skin?

It is gentler than many acid exfoliators, however, sensitive skin types should patch test first because it contains exfoliating acids and fragrance.

Is it good for dry skin?

Yes, especially if you struggle with flaky patches or rough texture. It leaves the skin feeling very smooth without stripping away moisture.

Random recs: Arthur Elgort the movie, Harvey Nichols, Siri Hustvedt, peak merch and more

0