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Why Biostimulators Like Radiesse Lead Regenerative Aesthetics

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Why Biostimulators Like Radiesse Lead Regenerative Aesthetics

The rise in popularity of regenerative aesthetics is undeniable, with biostimulators leading the charge. The beauty of regenerative aesthetics, especially biostimulators, is that they use your own skin’s power to bring out your natural beauty.

Regenerative Biostimulators 101

Regenerative biostimulators work by activating the body’s own repair and renewal processes, rather than simply adding volume or creating a temporary effect. They aim for gradual, natural, long-lasting results. “Regenerative biostimulators are designed to wake up your own fibroblasts so you build new collagen and elastin over time. On top of acting like a space-occupying gel, they act like a temporary scaffold that signals the skin to repair, thicken and firm from within,” explains board-certified Pasadena facial plastic surgeon Kay Durairaj, MD.

“After injection, the particles sit in the deeper layers of the skin and soft tissue, creating gentle mechanical stimulation. This triggers neocollagenesis (new collagen production), neoelastogenesis (new elastin) and even improved microcirculation,” says Dr. Durairaj.

Dr. Durairaj explains that, “Over time, the carrier gel is resorbed and the particles are gradually broken down by the body. What remains is your own remodeled tissue—thicker dermis, better support and smoother transitions between facial compartments.”

Regenerative Biostimulators vs. Hyaluronic Acid Fillers

“Hyaluronic acid fillers are gels that give immediate volume and structure. They attract water, support the tissues mechanically and are excellent for precise shaping of lips, tear troughs and delicate contours,” says Dr. Durairaj. “Regenerative biostimulators provide some immediate support, but their main value is in stimulating collagen and elastin production over time. The results are more about improved firmness, elasticity and lift.”

The Radiesse Difference

Radiesse is one of the most popular options for regenerative biostimulators among those seeking a younger and healthier-looking complexion. “In my practice and research, Radiesse has become a workhorse for patients who want structural support and true tissue regeneration, especially in the midface and lower face where bone, face and skin are all changing at once,” says Dr. Durairaj.

Important Safety Information for RADIESSE® appears at the end of this article

Radiesse is a calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA) biostimulator suspended in a gel carrier. It has a dual action: immediate structural support from the gel and delayed stimulation of collagen production from the CaHA microspheres as the gel is resorbed, says Dr. Durairaj. She notes, “This combination gives patients an early ‘lift’ with progressive improvement in firmness and contour over the following months.”

The biggest distinguishing factor for Radiesse, according to Dr. Durairaj, is its versatility. Outside of showing significant improvement of collagen and elastin versus baseline, Radiesse also shows a 48 percent improvement in skin thickness.1 Radiesse supports the formation of new microvessels, ensuring robust nutrients and oxygen delivery for optimally nourished skin. Radiesse also boasts strong evidence. “Histologic studies show robust stimulation of collagen types I and III, elastin and angiogenesis, which aligns with what I see clinically: better snap, density and luminosity of the skin rather than a ‘filled’ or puffy appearance,” says Dr. Durairaj.2

The Ideal Biostimulator Candidate

The best candidate is someone who is noticing laxity, deflation or ‘softening’ of their facial contours and wants a natural, gradual improvement on top of instant lift and contour, notes Dr. Durairaj, who has recommended it for patients from 30 through 70. She says signs of a good candidate include flattening of the cheeks, early jowling or loss of jawline definition, skin crepiness and volume loss on the backs of the hands. Dr. Durairaj notes it’s a prime option for patients who care about long-term skin health and collagen production. “They understand that results build over several months and that maintenance is part of a long game for aging well.”

Dr. Durairaj notes that Radiesse is not appropriate for those who are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have active infections or uncontrolled autoimmune disease in the treatment area. Additionally, it might not be the best option for those who need very superficial fine-line refinement, in which case hyaluronic acid fillers or other approaches may be better suited.

Radiesse During Your GLP-1 Weight Loss Journey

Rapid weight loss that comes with GLP-1s often leaves the face a bit more gaunt than desired. “Rapid weight loss can deflate the midface, temples and lower face, making the face look drawn, older and more skeletal. You lose not only fat, but also support from fascia and skin thickness, so folds deepen and jowls show up sooner,” explains Dr. Durairaj.

It’s crucial to consider longevity when on GLP-1s, says Dr. Durairaj, who emphasizes the importance of “adequate protein intake, micronutrient support, hormones and lifestyle, since the goal is not only to fill a hollow face but to keep tissues strong as weight stabilizes.” She says, “When Radiesse is combined with healthy weight-maintenance and skin care, it becomes a powerful tool to help patients look like a fresher version of themselves rather than someone who suddenly lost a lot of volume.”

Actual patients. Individual results may vary.

References:

  1. Silvers SL, et al. Plast Reconstr Surg. 2006;118(3 Suppl):34S–45S.
  2. Aguilera SB, et al. Aesthetic Surg J. 2023;43(10):1063–1090.

Indication:
RADIESSE® and RADIESSE® (+) Injectable Implants are FDA-approved for subdermal implantation for the correction of moderate to severe facial wrinkles and folds, such as nasolabial folds. RADIESSE® is also indicated for hand augmentation to correct volume loss in the dorsum of the hands. Radiesse (+) injectable implant is also indicated for deep injection (subdermal and/or supraperiosteal) for soft tissue augmentation to improve moderate to severe loss of jawline contour in adults over the age of 21.

RADIESSE® and RADIESSE® (+) IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION:

Contraindications:
These products are contraindicated for patients with severe allergies manifested by a history of anaphylaxis, or history or presence of multiple severe allergies; patients with known hypersensitivity to any of the components; and patients with bleeding disorders. RADIESSE® (+) is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to lidocaine or anesthetics of the amide type.
Warnings:
Introduction of product into the vasculature may lead to embolization, occlusion of the vessels, ischemia, or infarction. Take extra care when injecting soft tissue fillers, for example inject the product slowly and apply the least amount of pressure necessary. Rare but serious adverse events associated with the intravascular injection of soft tissue fillers in the face have been reported and include temporary or permanent vision impairment, blindness, cerebral ischemia or cerebral hemorrhage, leading to stroke, skin necrosis, and damage to underlying facial structures. Immediately stop the injection if a patient exhibits any of the following symptoms, including changes in vision, signs of a stroke, blanching of the skin, or unusual pain during or shortly after the procedure. The treating physician should be knowledgeable regarding any pretreatment evaluation and appropriate interventions in the event of intravascular disseminated injection. Prompt intervention by an appropriate medical specialist should be given should these signs or symptoms of intravascular injection occur.

Use of these products in any person with active skin inflammation or infection in or near the treatment should be deferred until the inflammatory or infectious process is controlled.
Do not overcorrect (overfill) a contour deficiency with these products.

Injection into the dorsum of the hand may cause adverse events that last for more than 14 days, and may result in temporary difficulty performing activities (48% of study patients reported this adverse event). RADIESSE® may cause nodules, bumps or lumps in the dorsum of the hand (12% reported this event) and can last up to 1 year.

The safety and effectiveness for use in the lips has not been established. There have been published reports of nodules associated with the use of these products injected into the lips.

Precautions:
In order to minimize the risk of potential complications, this product should only be used by healthcare practitioners who have appropriate training, experience and who are knowledgeable about the anatomy at and around the injection site. Healthcare practitioners should fully familiarize themselves with the product, the product educational materials and the entire package insert.
The safety and effectiveness of RADIESSE® or RADIESSE® (+) in the following situations has not been established:
• Beyond 3 years in the face and 1 year in the hand
• In the periorbital area
• Interactions between RADIESSE® or RADIESSE® (+) and drugs or other substances or implants
• Use during pregnancy, or in breastfeeding women
• In the face in patients under 18 years old
• In the dorsum of the hand in patients under 26 years old and over 79 years old
• In patients with increased susceptibility to keloid formation and hypertrophic scarring
• With concomitant dermal therapies such as epilation, UV irradiation, or laser, mechanical, or chemical peeling procedures

These products contain calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA) particles that are radiopaque and are clearly visible on CT Scans and may be visible in standard, plain radiography.
As with all transcutaneous procedures, injection of these products carries a risk of infection. Injection in the jawline may temporarily alter jaw function.
Use of RADIESSE® in the dorsum of the hand may result in significant swelling of the dorsum of the hand.
To help avoid needle breakage, do not attempt to straighten a bent needle or cannula. Discard it and complete the procedure with a replacement needle.
Patients who are using medications that can prolong bleeding, such as aspirin or warfarin, may experience increased bruising or bleeding at the injection site.
Patients with a history of previous herpetic eruption may experience reactivation of the herpes.
Patients should minimize strenuous activity and exposure of the treated area to extensive sun or heat exposure for approximately 24 hours after treatment or until any initial swelling and redness has resolved.

Adverse Events:
Common adverse events observed in clinical studies of RADIESSE® or RADIESSE® (+) include bruising, redness, swelling, pain, itching, lumps/bumps at site of injection, difficulty chewing and other local side effects.

Cases of delayed-onset inflammation have been reported to occur at the dermal filler treatment site following viral or bacterial illnesses or infections, vaccinations, or dental procedures. Typically, the reported inflammation was responsive to treatment or resolved on its own.

Information on adverse events from post-market surveillance of RADIESSE® and RADIESSE® (+) are included in the Instructions for Use (IFU) and Patient Information Guide (PIG) based on an assessment of seriousness and potential causal relationship to RADIESSE® or RADIESSE® (+). Please see the IFU and PIG available at www.radiesse.com for a complete list of these events.

To report a problem with RADIESSE® or RADIESSE® (+), please call MyMerz Solutions at 1-844-469-6379.

For complete Safety Information please refer to the Instructions for Use at Radiesse.com.

Rx only

6 Signs Your Partner Has a Lack of Ambition, According to Relationship Experts

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6 Signs Your Partner Has a Lack of Ambition, According to Relationship Experts

When it comes to green flags in dating, “ambition” almost always ranks near the top. For many of us, that word conjures a specific archetype—someone with a good career, a six-figure salary, and a LinkedIn profile that reads like a highlight reel of promotions.

Ambition, drive, success—these are all valuable traits in partners and in ourselves. However, the issue is that these attributes have been flattened into something far more superficial and inaccurate, relationship experts warn. “We’ve turned ambition into shorthand for, ‘Does this person make enough money?’” Keisha Saunders-Waldron, LCMHCS, an Ohio-based therapist specializing in relationship dynamics, tells SELF. “When it’s really about whether you’re growing and living intentionally…or just drifting through life on autopilot.”

In her 20 years of practice, Saunders-Waldron says she’s seen this misconception sabotage relationships. “I’ve worked with so many couples where one person is ‘ambitious’ on paper but completely checked out and lazy at home,” she says. “I’ve also seen the reverse—rejecting partners who aren’t corporate climbers but deeply determined about raising kids thoughtfully, building community, learning new skills”—versions that matter far more than pay bumps and university degrees.

So what does a lack of ambition look like? Here are the biggest red flags to watch out for.

1. They show little interest in growing as a person.

“Ambition is about growth, not just achievement,” Saunders-Waldron says—meaning, it’s less about what they’ve already accomplished and more about whether they’re pushing themselves to be better.

Maybe they started going to therapy consistently after a difficult breakup in the past, or taught themselves how to cook (even if their chicken piccata still needs improvement…and more seasoning). According to Saunders-Waldron, “a person who’s invested in their own progress—even if it has nothing to do with their career—is going to be a much better partner than someone chasing promotions who hasn’t done any emotional work in their adult life.”

2. They talk about change but don’t act on it.

Anyone can want to switch jobs, move to a new city, or run a marathon. But ambition is what bridges the gap between intention and action.

That explains why those who lack it stay stuck in chronic passivity. “It’s the mindset of, ‘Oh, I’ll get to it.’ ‘I’ll work on it,’” Ciara Bogdanovic, LMFT, founder of Sagebrush Psychotherapy in Los Angeles, tells SELF. “They’re waiting for things to happen to them instead of taking the initiative themselves.” So they want to save money…but won’t adjust their spending budget. They hope to be healthier…yet refuse to cook at home or go for walks outside. Essentially, “there’s no action,” Bogdanovic says. “No follow-through.”

Kao’s Bioré taps K-pop boy band Stray Kids for its South Korea market debut

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Kao’s Bioré taps K-pop boy band Stray Kids for its South Korea market debut

Japan’s beauty group Kao Corporation is expanding the global presence of its skincare brand Bioré with a launch in South Korea — a key market known for its strong influence on global beauty trends and consumer preferences.

By entering the South Korean market, Bioré aims to further strengthen trust in its technological expertise and enhance brand credibility on a global scale. “Success in Korea will serve as a strategic springboard for broader expansion across Asia and other international markets,” explains Kao in a release.

For this debut, the brand intends to leverage its proprietary sun care technology. Indeed, Bioré offers sunscreens that combine high-level UV protection with an exceptionally lightweight feel.


Coinciding with its entry into South Korea, Bioré will launch a global campaign centered on Bioré UV. For the second consecutive year, the campaign will feature K-pop boy band Stray Kids as its face and will roll out simultaneously across more than 15 countries and regions where Bioré UV is available.

Beginning with the “YOUR ONE AND ONLY. Bioré Global Brand Event”, to be held on March 19, 2026, in Seongsu, Seoul — one of South Korea’s most vibrant cultural hubs — and bringing together influencers from key markets around the world, Bioré will anchor its campaign in globally unified creative assets while layering locally optimized initiatives tailored to each market. The brand will also partner with influencers across multiple markets to deliver engaging, culturally relevant content.

The campaign will feature a range of integrated initiatives, including an anthem film, out-of-home advertising, global graphic rollouts, social media content and campaigns, and pop-up store activations in select markets.

Through this multi-layered approach, Bioré aims to communicate across borders the unique value of its sun care range: the combination of superior UV protection and a lightweight, refreshing feel.

“Global marketing plays a central role in accelerating Bioré’s growth. By bringing together Bioré UV—backed by our proprietary, world-class UV sunscreen technology—and Stray Kids, a group that continues to evolve on the global stage, we aim to establish Bioré’s position as a global leader. Our entry into the South Korean market is a pivotal step toward expanding our business across Asia and advancing our broader global growth strategy,” said Emi Kobayashi, President, Skincare Business, Kao Corporation (Bioré).

Meet Our Lash Curls: Your Complete Guide to Lash Extension Curl Type

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Meet Our Lash Curls: Your Complete Guide to Lash Extension Curl Type

When it comes to lash extensionsthe curl you choose can completely transform a set. From soft and natural to bold and dramatic, every curl creates a different effect depending on your client’s eye shape, natural lashes, and desired style.

If you’ve ever wondered which lash extension curl type to use, this guide is for you. Let’s break down each curl so you can confidently choose the perfect lift every time.

B Curl Lashes – Soft & Natural Enhancement

SHOP B CURL

Best for: Natural lash sets, classic lashes, clients who want subtle lift

B Curl lashes are the go-to solution for soft, natural classic sets. With a gentle curve, this curl mimics the look of naturally lifted lashes without appearing overly dramatic.

If your client wants:

  • A barely-there enhancement

  • A mascara effect

  • A natural everyday look

B Curl is your best friend. It’s especially beautiful for clients who already have a slight natural curl and just want added fullness.

C Curl Lashes – Subtle Yet Noticeable

SHOP C CURL

Best for: Clients wanting a visible but natural-looking lift

C Curl lashes are one of the most versatile and widely used lash extension curls in the industry. They provide a noticeable lift without going too dramatic, making them ideal for clients who want their eyes to appear more open and refreshed.

C Curl is perfect for:

  • First-time lash clients

  • Soft glam sets

  • Enhancing almond eye shapes

If your client wants a change that’s noticeable but still wearable, C Curl is the sweet spot.

CC Curl Lashes – The Perfect Lift

SHOP CC CURL

Best for: Flattering most eye shapes, balanced lift

CC Curl is our most popular curl and for good reason. It sits beautifully between C and D curl, giving you the perfect combination of lift and softness.

This curl:

  • Opens the eye instantly

  • Works for both classic and volume lash extensions

  • Photographs beautifully

  • Flatters most eye shapes

If you’re unsure which curl to grab, CC Curl is often the safest (and most stunning) choice.

D Curl Lashes – Bold & Glamorous

SHOP D CURL

Best for: Dramatic lash extensions, maximum lift

D Curl lashes bring bold lift and beautiful curvature. If your client loves maximum glamthis curl delivers serious impact.

Perfect for:

  • Volume lash sets

  • Dramatic lash mapping

  • Special occasions

  • Clients with straight natural lashes

D Curl creates a wide-eyed, lifted appearance that stands out, making it a staple for artists who love full glam transformations.

L+ Curl Lashes – Lift for Challenging Eye Shapes

SHOP L+ CURL

Best for: Hooded eyes, deep-set eyes, straight natural lashes

L+ Curl features a long, straight base that transitions into a soft C-like curl. That straight base allows the extension to extend outward before lifting, making it ideal for clients whose lashes grow downward or sit under a heavier brow bone.

L+ Curl is amazing for:

  • Hooded eyes

  • Deep-set eyes

  • Clients whose extensions tend to “hide”

  • Creating a lifted effect without going overly dramatic

This curl is a game changer when traditional curls aren’t giving you enough visibility.

M Curl Lashes – Ultimate Lift & Trend-Forward Sets

SHOP M CURL

Best for: Downturned eyes, trendy lash mapping, wispy sets

M Curl lashes have a short straight base that transitions upward for the perfect lift! This curl gives you intense upward direction while maintaining strong retention due to its flat base attachment.

M Curl is perfect for:

  • Downturned eyes

  • Creating extreme lift

  • Wispy and textured lash maps

  • Trend-forward lash styles

If you want to lift the outer corners or create a bold, eye-opening effect, M Curl is your secret weapon.

How to Choose the Right Lash Extension Curl

When selecting the best lash extension curl, always consider:

  • Natural lash direction

  • Eye shape (hooded, monolid, almond, deep-set, downturned)

  • Desired level of drama

  • Lash mapping style (classic, hybrid, volume, wispy)

Mixing curls like CC Curl and M Curl can also create customized lift and texture that elevates your sets even further.

Find Your Perfect Curl

Every curl has a purpose  and mastering them allows you to fully customize your lash sets. Whether you’re creating soft natural classics or bold volume glam, understanding lash extension curl types is key to delivering stunning, tailored results.

Ready to upgrade your lash cart?

Explore our full collection of professional lash extension curls and find your new favorite.

How to Support a Friend Who Wants to Get Back With an Ex (Again)

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How to Support a Friend Who Wants to Get Back With an Ex (Again)

It’s worth noting that leaving an unhealthy relationship—especially one that may involve abuse—is rarely as simple as walking away. People can stay stuck in these environments for a range of reasons, ranging from emotional (like shame or wanting to keep a family together) to practical (like financial dependence). There’s also the very real fear of escalation: “Abuse is about power and control,” Arlene Vassell, vice president of Programs, Prevention, and Social Change at the National Resource Center on Domestic Violence, previously told SELF. “And if [the abuser] feels like they’re losing control, the violence may escalate.”

While we don’t know what actually happened—or is happening—between Paul and Mortensen, one thing is clear: The ripple effects go beyond the two of them: The rest of MomTok is feeling it too. “It’s hard to support [Paul] when she keeps doing the same thing over and over that she says she doesn’t want to,” fellow Mormon wife, Mayci, says in episode five of the new season. Castmate Mikayla Matthews seemingly confirmed the show’s hiatus in an Instagram story on March 19, writing that “it was a decision that all of us girls came up with and agreed on.”

It’s a plight many of us know all too well: being the friend on the sidelines through every on and off period. You sit through countless rants, help draft the “I deserve better” messages, and then quietly watch the pattern repeat.

“It’s quite an overshadowed perspective that we don’t talk about enough,” one woman, who requested anonymity, tells SELF. She recounts dozens of intervention attempts and heart-to-hearts with her former best friend, only to be accused of “peer-pressuring,” branded a “hater,” and dismissed as “nosy” about a relationship that technically isn’t her business. “I understand that people go through hurt in toxic dynamics, but we need to also talk about the toll on the friends who get disrespected in the process.”

Of course, there’s an argument that good friends will (and should!) support you through highs and lows, which is why we nod politely when our pals insist it’s “different this time” and offer a gentle, “I just want you to be happy” instead of delivering the harsh truth.

But the expectation to put your friendship first and “just be supportive” overlooks the other part of the equation: the labor of playing designated therapist over and over again—an exhausting déjà vu that Miami-based clinical psychologist Christie Ferrari, PhD, calls “compassion fatigue.”

How to Stay True to Your Style Without Feeling Overdressed — Inside Out Style

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How to Stay True to Your Style Without Feeling Overdressed — Inside Out Style

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You love clothes. You’ve always cared about sartorially fitting into your environment and looking polished, but somewhere along the way, the world got more casual. Now, wearing what feels right to you can make you feel out of step. You’re not alone. Many women face the same dilemma: how to stay true to their more polished style without feeling overdressed. The answer isn’t to give up what you love – it’s to learn how to adapt it for the world we live in now.

The culture of casual dressing has shifted dramatically. Even workplaces that once required polished looks now lean towards sneakers and knits. It’s easy to feel like you stand out for the wrong reasons when your natural instinct is to look put-together. But there’s room for elegance in every environment.

This isn’t about conforming – it’s about integration. You can soften your look without diluting your personality. Here’s how to bridge the gap between you and your surroundings.

Start with One Elevated Element

If you’re worried about feeling out of place, start small. Instead of going all-in with formal pieces, add one elevated touch to an otherwise casual outfit. Try a statement pearl necklace with your jeans and T-shirt. Add a printed scarf to a simple knit top. These quiet refinements build confidence and gradually ease others into your style.

Once people see that you’re comfortable, they’ll get comfortable with it too. Over time, these details become part of how they recognise you.

Reimagine the Pieces You Love

You don’t need to give up blazers, skirts, or tailored clothes – just reinterpret them. Swap a traditional wool blazer for one made of ponte, jersey, textural wool or linen. Choose relaxed shapes and colours that feel less corporate – perhaps a bright hue, an interesting texture, or even a patterned style.

A denim skirt rather than a more formal fabric.

Add a blazer to your denim outfitPair structured pieces with casual counterparts. A blazer over jeans. A crisp shirt tucked into soft trousers. A statement necklace over a knit. It’s the mix that keeps you grounded and stylish.

Upgrade the Casual, Don’t Downgrade the Dressy

If jeans and T-shirts dominate your social circle, elevate that formula rather than surrendering to it. Look for:

  • Quality denim that holds shape and feels tailored.
  • Well-constructed T-shirts with interesting necklines, textures, or prints.
  • Shoes with polish – loafers, ballet flats, low-heeled boots, or sleek sneakers.
  • Add an accessory, the scarf, the statement necklace or earrings, a few bracelets and bangles can make a simple outfit look stylish.

These pieces strike a balance between comfort and intention. You’ll still look relaxed, but unmistakably “put together.”

Be the Permission Giver

Chances are, you’re not the only one who wants to dress a little better. Often, others feel restricted by the same social pressure to dress down. Someone has to go first – and that can be you.

I’ve seen it time and again. When one woman dresses with authenticity and confidence, others quietly follow. Style leadership is contagious. What starts as self-expression becomes cultural permission.

Adjust Fabric and Colour to Your Context

The difference between “polished” and “too formal” is often in fabric choice. A button-up shirt feels more relaxed in chambray or soft linen fabric than the crisp cotton of traditional businesswear. A classic blazer feels friendlier in colour than in a traditional neutral, or choose one with a pattern. This way it feels smart but less like traditional corporate officewear.

Colour also shifts tone.  Neutrals such as black, grey and navy speak of a more conservative and businesslike tone.  Tan, camel and olive, whilst neutrals are not seen in traditional business settings, so are more down-to-earth.  Softer colours read as more approachable, whilst brighter ones add zest and a more dramatic look to your outfit.

add colour to your traditional businesslike neutralsStay Confident in Your Choices

It’s natural to feel a little uncomfortable when you step outside the group norm. But confidence grows with repetition. The first few times you show up slightly more polished, you’ll notice – and so will others. After a while, it becomes your new normal.

Remember, when you dress in a way that aligns with your personality, you’ll appear more relaxed and self-assured – not overdressed. People respond to confidence far more than they do to clothing labels or dress codes.

Lead by Example

When you embrace your authentic style, you model self-expression for others. I’ve seen clients – and experienced it myself – where one person’s willingness to dress well shifts an entire environment. Friends start wearing trousers instead of leggings. Colleagues reach for blazers. Dressing better becomes a ripple effect of permission.

Instead of toning down your style to match the room, elevate the room with your presence. That’s how change begins – one outfit at a time.

Keep Your Style DNA Intact

Your style DNA is the combination of traits that make your personal style unmistakably yours, a reflection of your personality, values, lifestyle, and aesthetic instincts. It’s what makes one woman feel herself perfectly in tailored linen and another radiant in flowy prints. When you understand your style DNA, you stop chasing trends or dressing for approval and start dressing in alignment with who you really are

If you’re unsure of your own style DNA, start by paying attention to the moments when someone says, “That’s so you.” Those are clues that your inner and outer selves are in sync. You can also explore your personality-driven style foundations through 16 Style Types, which links psychological type to authentic style expression.

How to stay true to your style without feeling overdressed starts with courage and curiosity. Try smaller details, and gradual elevation – not to hide your love of style, but to integrate it into your life as it is now.

Your wardrobe isn’t meant to match your friends; it’s meant to mirror you. So wear what you love, one confident choice at a time.

Recommended Reading

Discover Your Personality Style DNA

All My Best Tips and Inspiration for Putting Together Stylish Outfits

Do You Want Your Style to Help You Blend In or Stand Out?

How to Stay True to Your Style Without Feeling Overdressed

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How to Have an Amazing Nipple Orgasm

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How to Have an Amazing Nipple Orgasm

Frequently asked questions about nipple orgasms

Who is most likely to enjoy a nipple orgasm?

Anyone could benefit from the pleasure of nipple play, not to mention all the trickle-down perks from orgasms of any kind, like a mood boost and better sleep.

But a nipple orgasm might also be an especially accessible route to pleasure for those who struggle to have a genital orgasm. There are a bunch of possible reasons for that, Dr. Cobb points out, ranging from moral boundaries around genital stimulation, to the vaginal thinning of menopause, to certain chronic conditions (like vulvodynia) and medical treatments (like prior pelvic surgery or radiation).

These scenarios can make genital sex acts painful. Opting for nipple play instead can “trigger the same positive physiological and neurochemical response [of genital touch] while bypassing any pathology related to genital stimulation,” Dr. Cobb says.

Who might have trouble achieving a nipple orgasm?

If you’ve had breast surgery (a lift, reduction, lumpectomy, or mastectomy, for instance), you may not be able to experience a nipple orgasm, as these procedures can impact nipple sensation, Dr. Cobb notes. Changes in nipple sensitivity from hormonal shifts or breastfeeding can also influence how any kind of stimulation feels.

Separately, if you hold a negative association with this part of your body, stimulating it likely won’t feel pleasurable, Rowntree notes. That’s because the way you think about a sexual experience plays a huge role in how it ultimately feels.

Remember, if you fall into any of these buckets, or can’t enjoy a nipple orgasm for another reason, it’s certainly not a failure, Rowntree says: “All types of orgasms are valid, and erogenous zones and arousal are subjective across the board.”

What can you do if your nipple gets overstimulated?

Nipples are made up of delicate tissue and bundles of nerves, so it can definitely happen. First, pause what you’re doing, or tell your partner to do so—communicating directly is always better than hoping that they’ll read your nonverbal cues. If you’re otherwise feeling okay, you could move along to other erogenous zones, Rowntree says. Once things settle down, you can return to boob stuff, but if you do, Rowntree suggests keeping the stimulation light and avoiding direct nipple play.

Spring Skincare – HollyBeth Organics Luxury Skin Care

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Spring Skincare – HollyBeth Organics Luxury Skin Care

Happy Spring!

Spring is the time we get motivated to clean out our homes, to get rid of things to start fresh. But spring cleaning isn’t just about purging physical items from our lives. After a long winter, it’s also a great time to think about purging toxins from our bodies. Your skin deserves a spring clean to keep everything fresh, glowing and gorgeous.

The key to any skincare regimen is consistency. The skin is made up of several layers and it takes time for skin to adjust to new climates. If you follow the main ‘musts’ your skin will be vibrant and glow year round. Spring skincare begins today! So let’s get started. Below are key essentials to keep your skin glowing and healthy.

Eat Well

The old adage “you are what you eat” applies not only to our body, but also to our skin. What is lovely about spring and summer is that nature’s skin detoxifiers abound in red and blue, in the form of berries. Try eating what is in local, in season and fresh. Not only will you feel better but you will look better for your spring skincare.

Exfoliate

Get rid of winter skin for your spring skincare with a gentle exfoliator and stay away from harsh scrubs and chemicals that can damage your skin. Remember your skin sheds cells every minute, think of it as spring cleaning, sweeping away winter. When I was a child my mother would exfoliate with cornmeal which is the reason I created our award winning grits & honey scrub. What customers love about it is that it is not only an exfoliator but a moisturizer as the honey leaves your skin soft and supple.

Cleanse

This is so important. When I lived throughout Europe and Latin America doing international business development, people would always tell me to never use soap to cleanse my face, but to use cold cream or oils. Our cleansing oil is  gentle, yet effective in cleansing. Every country where I have lived, people swear by rinsing with cold water. Notice the people’s skin who you admire, apart from genetics I wonder if you will be amazed at how many use cool/cold water instead of hot water and how that affects their skin’s condition.

Hydrate

When the temperature heats up and perspiration is inevitable, it doesn’t mean your skin is getting oily. Quite the contrary; it can become dryer and your skin can start to look dull once the sweat evaporates. You always want to drink plenty of water. I mist throughout the day with a non-alcohol based mister/toner, our rose geranium and marigold toners.

Moisturize

While living in France, I learned that dry oils are the best moisturizer for both dry and oily skin. Why? A dry oil is non-comedogenic (non-pore clogging). One of my favorites is camellia oil – it sinks right into the skin and has been treasured by Japanese geisha for years. Camellia oil also has UV protection properties. You will find this ingredient in most of our products including face and neck elixir and rose geranium face moisturizer.

The area around our eyes starts showing maturity first because the skin there is thinner. And squinting in the sun doesn’t help. It’s best to always use a moisturizing eye cream and apply it with your ring finger from the outside in. Beyond that, summer can cause our skin to become dry. Even if you have oily skin, you still need to replenish the moisture; misters or dry oils work well. Another moisturizing trick is to let your skin breathe by going without make up, just use your moisturizer, sunscreen and don’t forget your hat and sunglasses.

I Wear Korean Lip Tints Almost Exclusively—And These Are My Favorites

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I Wear Korean Lip Tints Almost Exclusively—And These Are My Favorites

The best Korean lip tints are—and have been—at the top of their game, and as a beauty editor who almost exclusively wears them, this story practically writes itself. If you’re in the market for a moisturizing, non-sticky, pigmented, and relatively long-lasting lip color, keep reading. I know I’m just one very devoted K-beauty lip product person, but our editor in chief agrees: “I wholeheartedly believe that no one does lip stains better than Korea,” confirms Jessica Cruel.

The one caveat with my picks? They’re not typically ultra long-wearing—and I’m okay with that. Most aren’t true stains, so I don’t expect them to cling on all day, and I tend to gravitate toward hydrating, skin-care-infused formulas that won’t settle into lip lines as the hours pass. Plus, I don’t mind (and even enjoy) reapplying, especially after meals.

My Top Korean Lip Stains

Frequently Asked Questions

Best Overall: Rom&nd The Juicy Lasting Tint

Rom&nd

The Juicy Lasting Tint

Why I love it: The best lip tint is an all-rounder, and in the world of K-beauty, that roughly translates to Rom&nd’s The Juicy Lasting Tint. (Fun fact: I recently learned Rom&nd—pronounced “rom and”—stands for Romantic and Modern, which tracks given its lineup of peaches, pinks, corals, reds, berries, and nudey browns.) Not only are these high-shine formulas named after fruits (my go-tos are Plum Coke and Bare Grape), but they also leave behind a dewy, just-bit-into-a-juicy-peach kind of sheen…only with way more color payoff.

For the most comfortable wear, I like to first apply a layer of clear lip balm and let it sit for a few minutes while I do the rest of my makeup, then blot off the excess—don’t skip this step—before going in with the tint. That said, the formula is hydrating enough to hold its own without prep; it really just depends on how dry my lips are that day. It’s not the longest-lasting option out there (we’ll get to those), but that’s kind of the point for me. I’d rather reapply something plush and nourishing throughout the day—it’s become a small comfort ritual—than deal with anything that leaves my lips feeling tight or shriveled.

Kiki Shepard, Beloved ‘Showtime at the Apollo’ Co-Host, Dies at 74

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Kiki Shepard, Beloved ‘Showtime at the Apollo’ Co-Host, Dies at 74

Written By Charron Monaye, Hype Hair Contributor

Kiki Shepard, the beloved American television personality and actress best known for co-hosting Showtime at the Apollo, died on March 16, 2026, at the age of 74 after suffering a massive heart attack in Los Angeles, California. Her sudden passing has reverberated across the entertainment world, where her influence spanned decades and touched generations of performers and viewers alike.

Photo Credit: Maury Phillips | WireImage

Born Chiquita Renee “Kiki” Shepard on July 15, 1951, in Tyler, Texas, she discovered a passion for the arts early in life. Shepard pursued a degree in Business Administration at Howard University, graduating near the top of her class and becoming a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Her professional journey began on Broadway, performing in productions such as Bubbling Brown Sugar, Reggae, Your Arms Too Short to Box With God, and Porgy and Bess.

Career Timeline Highlights

  • 1970s–1980s: Built her performance foundation with dance and Broadway theater roles.
  • 1987–2002: Co-hosted Showtime at the Apollo, the legendary music and variety showcase from Harlem’s Apollo Theater.
  • 1990s–2000s: Appeared on television series including A Different World, Baywatch, NYPD Blue, Everybody Hates Chris, Grey’s Anatomy, and Mind Your Business.
  • 2006: Founded the K.I.S. (Knowledge Is Strength) Foundation, raising awareness and support for those affected by sickle cell disease.
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Photo Credit: WireImage

During her tenure on Showtime at the Apollo, alongside personalities like Steve Harvey and Sinbad, Shepard became a household name and earned the affectionate title “Apollo Queen of Fashion” for her distinctive style and charismatic on-screen presence.

The news of her passing prompted an outpouring of tributes on social media and from peers in the entertainment industry. Hairstylist and longtime friend Elgin Charles described her as “the soul of Showtime at the Apollo and a bright light in our lives,” reflecting on their shared Texas roots and calling her “the definition of genuine, a woman of immense grace who championed the fight against sickle cell with the same passion she brought to the stage.” Fans and colleagues alike honored her generosity, warmth, and the inspiration she provided through both her entertainment and advocacy work.

Kiki Shepard Side Pose 800
Photo Credit: Andrew Werner

Kiki Shepard’s death marks the loss of a cultural icon whose influence extended far beyond her work on Showtime at the Apollo. A trailblazer for Black women in media, a mentor to emerging talent, and an advocate for her community, Shepard helped elevate countless performers and brought visibility to artists who might otherwise have gone unnoticed. Her legacy as a host, actress, advocate, and beloved figure will endure for years to come.

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