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Why Pre-Shampoo Care Is the Secret to Healthy Hair

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Why Pre-Shampoo Care Is the Secret to Healthy Hair

Key Takeaways

  • Pre-shampoo care helps protect hair when it’s most vulnerable, since wet hair is more prone to breakage, it fortifies it from the inside before any additional care.
  • A targeted hair treatment for damaged hair can significantly reduce hair breakage.
  • OLAPLEX Nº.3PLUS delivers fast, molecular-level repair in just 3 minutes.

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When it comes to healthy hair, what you do before shampooing can be just as important as what comes after. Pre-shampoo care is often overlooked, but it’s a step that can help protect hair from breakage, reinforce strength, and support long-term hair health at the molecular level.

Whether your hair is color treated, heat styled, or simply exposed to natural everyday stress, adding a targeted pre shampoo treatment to your routine can make a visible difference in how your hair looks and feels.

What Is Pre-Shampoo Care?

Pre-shampoo care refers to treatments that are applied to the hair before cleansing to repair, strengthen, and protect strands from damage. Unlike traditional conditioners or masks, pre-shampoo treatments work on compromised hair internally, repairing the hair and helping it maintain health against heat, friction, and mechanical stress.

Using a pre-shampoo treatment is especially beneficial for anyone experiencing noticeable damage:

  • Hair breakage
  • Dryness or dullness
  • Split ends
  • Damage from chemical services or heat styling

Why Hair Is Most Vulnerable Before Washing

Hair is naturally more fragile when it’s wet, which means weakened strands can become overstretched or break more easily during washing. When hair lacks elasticity, it can stretch beyond its limit and snap instead of returning to its original shape. While shampooing is an important step for scalp and hair cleanliness, vulnerable hair may benefit from extra support to minimize additional stress during the cleansing process.

Using a pre-shampoo treatment helps fortify the hair from within, strengthening each strand so it’s more resilient. This added protection reduces breakage and helps maintain hair strength throughout the wash.

A high-performance hair treatment applied pre-shampoo helps reinforce hair from the inside out, reducing breakage and preserving strength during cleansing.

How Pre-Shampoo Treatments Help Prevent Hair Breakage

Adding a pre-shampoo treatment step to your routine can make a noticeable difference in the strength and resilience of your hair. These treatments work proactively to protect strands before cleansing, helping to minimize damage and maintain healthy structure over time. But how does it work to keep breakage at bay?

1. Strengthens Hair at the Molecular Level

Advanced pre-shampoo treatments work inside the hair fiber to repair bonds that have been compromised by color, heat, and environmental stress.

2. Reduces Breakage Instantly and Over Time

Stronger hair isn’t something you “feel” as much as something you stop noticing. When hair is weakened, it breaks during brushing, snaps while styling, and leaves short strands lying around wherever you go – i.e. “shedding”.

By reinforcing weakened areas from cuticle-to-cortex, pre-shampoo care helps hair feel stronger after just one use, meaning less breakage during styling and more resilience where your hair may be most vulnerable. With continued use, long-term hair strength helps strands stay intact so hair can retain length over time.

3. Improves Overall Hair Health

Consistent use leads to smoother texture, enhanced softness, and healthier looking hair from root to tip.

The OLAPLEX® Difference in Pre-Shampoo Care

There are plenty of pre-treatments that can be used, but OLAPLEX focuses on foundational hair health rather than temporary cosmetic results.

OLAPLEX Nº.3PLUS Complete Repair Treatment is the next evolution of the iconic Nº.3 Hair Perfector®, delivering deeper repair, faster results, and broader protection for all hair types.

How Nº.3PLUS Complete Repair Is Different:

OLAPLEX Nº.3PLUS Complete Repair Treatment works internally using OLAPLEX Bond Building Technology™ to repair all three bonds within the hair structure, from cuticle-to-cortex, helping the hair look and feel healthier with every wash.

The new formula also features Damage Defense Technology, which helps defend hair against future damage caused by heat, color, and mechanical stress, supporting long-term hair strength and length retention.

  • Repairs hair in just 3 minutes, restoring strength and softness quickly
  • 3x stronger hair, reinforcing the cortex to reduce breakage over time
  • 3x softer hair, instantly improving smoothness and manageability
  • 360° cuticle-to-cortex repair focused on all 3 hair bonds, strengthening the hair from the inside out
  • Improved length retention for all hair types, helping hair grow longer by preventing future damage

Follow with OLAPLEX Nº.4 Bond Maintenance® Shampoo and Nº.5 Bond Maintenance® Conditioner to help further repair hair bonds and restore hydration without weighing down the hair.

How to Use Nº.3PLUS Complete Repair as a Pre-Shampoo Treatment

Designed to fit seamlessly into your routine, the Nº.3PLUS Complete Repair Treatment delivers powerful repair in just 3 minutes. Used as an in-shower pre-shampoo treatment, it works before cleansing to help strengthen hair, reduce breakage, and support softer, healthier-looking hair from the very first step:

  1. In shower, wet hair and squeeze out excess water so hair is damp.
  2. Apply a generous amount of Nº.3PLUS, focusing on mid-lengths to ends.
  3. Leave on for 3 minutes before rinsing thoroughly.
  4. Shampoo and condition as usual.

The Nº.3PLUS Complete Repair Treatment can be used 1-3 times per week, depending on your level of damage, to help maintain strong, resilient hair over time. Consistent pre-shampoo use helps reinforce hair at its most vulnerable stage, making each wash an opportunity to repair existing damage while defending against future stress.

The result is hair that feels smoother, looks healthier, and is better prepared for the rest of your haircare routine.

Is Pre-Shampoo Care Right for You?

If you’re dealing with breakage, dryness, or visible damage, pre-shampoo treatment is one of the most effective ways to restore hair health. While the pre-treatment works well on hair that has been compromised, it also works well on virgin hair, which is still susceptible to external stressors.

Healthy hair starts with repairing what’s broken from the inside. Adding a targeted pre-shampoo treatment like Nº.3PLUS Complete Repair Treatment helps ensure every wash supports stronger, healthier hair, both now and in the future. There are also plenty of other ways to help strengthen the hair. Check out other Strength & Elasticity products and start your journey to your healthiest hair yet.

Why Susie Built Purity Park in San Jose – 100% PURE

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Why Susie Built Purity Park in San Jose – 100% PURE

The “Renter” vs. The “Owner”

In the beauty industry, there is a hidden reality that most people never see. The vast majority of skincare and makeup brands—even the high-end, luxury ones—don’t actually make their own products. They are what we call “renters.” They lease space in massive, third-party labs that produce formulas for dozens of different companies at the same time.

Think of it like a communal kitchen. One day, that kitchen might be making a “clean” serum, and the next, it might be processing industrial-grade detergents or heavy synthetic fragrances. Even with cleaning protocols, the risk of “noise”—the microscopic residues of harsh chemicals—is always there.

For our co-founders, Susie Wang and Ric Kostick, this wasn’t good enough. They didn’t want to just put their name on a bottle; they wanted to know exactly what was happening inside that bottle at every second of the process. They realized that to achieve the level of safety and stability they envisioned, they needed a sanctuary.

That sanctuary became Purity Park. Located in San Jose, California, it sits at the heart of Silicon Valley. We chose this location because it is the world’s hub for precision engineering and innovation. By building our own facility, we moved from being “renters” to being “owners.” We own the lab, we own the manufacturing, and we own the fulfillment. This is what we call vertical integration, and it is the reason we can stand behind every drop of product we create.

The Chain of Custody: Why Total Control is the Only Way

When you have sensitive skin, you are often playing a game of “detective.” You try a product, your skin reacts, and you spend hours scanning the ingredient list to find the culprit. But sometimes, the irritant isn’t even listed on the label. It could be a trace contaminant from a shared manufacturing vat or a filler ingredient used by a third-party lab to make the process easier.

Eliminating the Risk of “Noise”

At Purity Parkwe eliminate that risk through what we call the “Chain of Custody.” Because we manufacture everything in-house, we see every ingredient that comes through the back door. We know who grew it, how it was processed, and how it was stored.

Our facility features ISO-certified clean rooms—high-tech environments where we control every variable, from the temperature and humidity to the oxygen levels in the air. This is critical because, as we know from the story of Vitamin C, oxygen is the enemy of stability. By controlling the environment, we ensure that our potent botanicals stay “quiet” and effective, rather than oxidizing and becoming irritants.

The “Silicon Valley Halo” of Precision

Being in San Jose allows us to recruit some of the brightest minds in science and engineering. We treat our skincare like software—it needs to be bug-free, optimized, and constantly improving. We use advanced techniques like stabilization and cold-processing to ensure that when a product reaches your vanity, it is at its biological peak. We don’t just “source” beauty; we architect it with the same precision that goes into a high-end computer chip.

The Ethics of Engineering: The Beauty Bakery Concept

Purity isn’t just about what is in the bottle; it’s about the spirit in which the bottle was made. At 100% PUREwe don’t believe in “mass-market” timelines. Most brands make huge batches of products that sit in a warehouse for months, or even years, before they ever reach a customer. To keep those products from spoiling, they have to use aggressive preservatives and stabilizers.

Small, Fresh Batches

We operate on what we call the “Beauty Bakery” philosophy. Just as a bakery makes fresh bread every morning, we make our products in small, frequent batches right here in San Jose.

Why does this matter for your skin? Because botanical ingredients are “alive.” They have a biological pulse. The fresher the product, the higher the bioavailability—meaning your skin can actually recognize and absorb the nutrients. When you use a product from our lab, you are getting the “peak harvest” of that formula’s power. This allows us to use gentler, more skin-friendly preservation methods because the product isn’t designed to sit on a shelf for a decade.

Sustainable Standards

Our commitment to the environment is just as strong as our commitment to your skin. Purity Park is designed with sustainability in mind. By centralizing our operations in one facility, we reduce our carbon footprint and ensure that our ethical standards are met at every stage of production. From utilizing solar energy to reduce our reliance on the grid to implementing water-saving technologies, we believe that a truly “pure” product shouldn’t come at the cost of the planet.

From Our Lab to Your Ritual

The precision of Purity Park is most evident in The Sensitive-Skin Strength Ritual. Because we manufacture these products ourselves, we can guarantee the integrity of every ingredient.

The Matcha Factor

Take, for example, our Matcha Oat Face Scrub and Matcha Oat Milk Nourishing Mask. Matcha is incredibly sensitive to light and air; if it’s not handled correctly, it loses its antioxidant power almost immediately. Because we ground and process our matcha in-house, we can ensure it stays vibrant and potent. When you open that jar, you’re seeing the result of a controlled, stabilized process that preserves the tea’s natural ability to soothe and protect your skin.

The Seaberry Stabilization

Similarly, our Seaberry Moisturizer and Intensive Nourishing Facial Oil rely on delicate oils that are prone to oxidation. In a generic factory, these oils might be heated to high temperatures to speed up production, which can destroy their nutritional value. At Purity Parkwe use cold-processing and specialized emulsions to keep the Seaberry oils stable. This ensures that the high concentrations of omegas and vitamins reach your skin in their most powerful form, providing comfort and restoration without the need for synthetic “fixes.”

Conclusion: Our North Star

Purity Park is more than just a building; it is our “North Star.” it represents Susie and Ric’s refusal to compromise on their vision of radical integrity. By choosing to be “owners” rather than “renters,” we have created a sanctuary where science and nature can work together in perfect harmony.

When you see “Made in San Jose” on our packaging, know that it is a mark of authority. It means that every step of that product’s journey—from the first drop of rose water to the final seal—was overseen by people who care about your skin’s health as much as you do. We are proud to lead the way in ethical, high-performance beauty, proving every day that when you control the process, you can truly guarantee the purity.

FAQ Section: Understanding Vertical Integration

What does it mean to be “vertically integrated”?

In the simplest terms, it means we do everything ourselves. Most beauty brands hire one company to design the product, another to source the ingredients, another to manufacture it, and yet another to ship it. At 100% PUREwe own the entire process. We have our own R&D lab, our own manufacturing facility (Purity Park), and our own fulfillment center. This allows us to maintain a “Chain of Custody” that ensures the highest standards of safety, quality, and freshness.

Why is solar power important for skincare quality?

While we utilize solar energy as part of our commitment to the planet, it’s also a symbol of our overall engineering standards. Sustainable manufacturing requires a high level of technical oversight and investment. By integrating renewable energy sources into our facility, we are demonstrating that we value long-term health—for both our customers and the environment—over short-term industrial shortcuts. It’s all part of our mission to create a “cleaner” world, from the way we power our labs to the way we power your skincare.

How does small-batch manufacturing benefit sensitive skin?

Sensitive skin thrives on consistency and freshness. In large-scale, mass-market manufacturing, products often contain higher levels of aggressive preservatives to survive long transit times and shelf lives. Because we make our products in small batches at Purity Parkwe can use a more “Sophisticated” approach to preservation. Our products are fresher when they reach you, meaning the ingredients are more active and less likely to have degraded into potential irritants.

What is an ISO-certified clean room?

An ISO-certified clean room is a controlled environment where the concentration of airborne particles is kept to a minimum. In the beauty world, this is the gold standard for safety. It means that our products are formulated in a space that is incredibly clean, reducing the risk of contamination from dust, microbes, or other pollutants. This level of precision is part of our commitment to providing a “Safe Haven” for your skin.

Ready to experience the difference that “owned” beauty makes? Explore our full collection and see what happens when science-backed purity meets the heart of Silicon Valley.

The 30-Minute Screening That Could Add Years to Your Life

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The 30-Minute Screening That Could Add Years to Your Life

The advice is straightforward. If you’re 45, get screened, and don’t delay. If you’re under 45, and have a family history of colorectal cancer or polyps, talk to your doctor. And no matter your age, know what symptoms to look out for: blood in your stool, severe pain in your anus, sudden changes in bowel movements (like new, persistent constipation or diarrhea), iron deficiency, anemia, weight loss, and fatigue. “Go see a gastroenterologist and push for a colonoscopy,” Dr. May says.

Easier said than done, of course, especially for a young person whose doctor may dismiss or minimize concerns due to their age. This is one of the bigger issues in adequate colorectal cancer awareness and care, Michael Sapienza, CEO of the Colorectal Cancer Alliance, tells SELF. In the US, the majority of young people have to be seen by two doctors before they’re taken seriously about colorectal cancer. Some have to see up to four.

Cost and access make things harder. Colonoscopies are typically covered by insurance only after 45 or when symptoms are severe. Specialists aren’t available everywhere. And even among those who are eligible, many avoid screening—because it feels intimidating, inconvenient, or embarrassing. As of 2022, only 61% of adults aged 45 to 75 were up to date on screening.

So while colonoscopies are “the gold standard,” in Dr. Nazareth’s view, for people not at high risk for colorectal cancer, “any test is a good test. It doesn’t matter if it’s [a] colonoscopy.” Cologuard, for example, an FDA-approved fecal test, while not a replacement for a colonoscopy is an effective tool to screen for colon cancer.

Reframing colonoscopies

For a long time, colonoscopies have been the punchline of aging jokes. But most people who’ve had them say the reality isn’t that bad.

The prep is usually the most intimidating: A clear liquid diet the day before your colonoscopy plus drinking several liters of water mixed with powdered medication that clears your bowels. Bell and Beran have lots of little tips that can make it better, like popping the liquid in the fridge to make it cold, proactively using hemorrhoid cream, and booking your colonoscopy after 11 a.m. so you don’t have to take your second dose of prep medication in the middle of the night.

Fasting and Your Skin & Hair: Benefits, Risks & What to Know

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Fasting and Your Skin & Hair: Benefits, Risks & What to Know

I get asked this question all the time: “Does fasting really make my skin glow or my hair stronger?” If you’ve ever scrolled through wellness feeds, you’ve probably seen the hype around intermittent fasting, autophagy, and detox diets, all promising clearer skin and shinier hair. But here’s the truth — fasting can do both, help and hurt, depending on how you approach it.

I’ve experimented with fasting myself, paying close attention to how my skin and hair respond, and what I’ve learned is that it’s not about skipping meals or going extreme. It’s about balance, timing, and giving your body the nutrients it needs when it matters most.

How Fasting Impacts Your Skin

“Clinical research indicates that structured fasting-mimicking diets can increase skin hydration and help maintain skin texture over time, supporting the idea that certain fasting patterns may have real benefits for skin health.”

Let’s start with the skin. Fasting triggers something called autophagy — a natural cellular cleanup process. In simple terms, your skin cells get a chance to repair, recycle, and remove damaged components. This can reduce inflammation, calm occasional breakouts, and even give your complexion a subtle glow.

Another way fasting can benefit your skin is through hormonal balance. Skipping constant snacking or sugar spikes lowers insulin levels, which can help calm acne-prone skin. Many people notice fewer flare-ups or less oiliness when their meals are timed and consistent.

fasting hydration and skin health

But here’s the catch: fasting without proper hydration or nutrient support can backfire. Your skin might feel dry, tight, or even irritated if your body is under-fueled. Over time, skipping essential nutrients weakens the skin barrier, leaving your complexion reactive and dull. That’s why I always say: fasting is not just about when you eat, it’s about what you eat during your eating window.

Personally, I make sure that when I break my fast, I choose hydrating foods and nutrient-rich meals. Think water-heavy fruits, healthy fats, and proteins that support both my energy levels and my skin’s health. Doing this consistently helps me maintain that balance between fasting benefits and skin hydration.

How Fasting Affects Hair Health

Now let’s talk about hair — something I know many of you worry about when trying new wellness trends. Hair growth is sensitive to your nutrition and overall health. Short-term fasting can actually be helpful by reducing inflammation and balancing hormones that influence hair growth.

However, if fasting is too restrictive or prolonged, hair may start to thin or lose its shine. That’s because hair is a nutrient-sensitive tissue; protein, iron, zinc, omega-3 fatty acids, and biotin are all essential. Without them, your scalp can become stressed, which ultimately affects hair strength and texture.

When I fast, I always make sure to include protein-rich foods in my meals, along with sources of iron and healthy fats. This way, I get the cellular benefits of fasting without risking dryness, shedding, or lackluster hair. The key is consistency and moderation — it’s not about skipping meals for dramatic results, but about supporting your body intelligently.

How to Fast Without Harming Your Skin or Hair

So, what does this look like in practice? Intermittent fasting windows, like 14:10 or 16:8, are generally safe and sustainable for most people. Extended fasts over 24–48 hours should be done carefully, ideally with professional guidance, especially if you notice your hair shedding or skin becoming reactive.

Hydration is critical. I always start my fasting day with water and herbal teas, and I make sure to rehydrate properly when breaking my fast. Electrolytes can also help if you feel sluggish or notice dryness in skin or hair.

nutrient rich meal for skin and hair during fasting

When it comes to meals, prioritize nutrient-rich foods. Healthy fats, like avocado or olive oil, help maintain skin elasticity. Protein supports hair strength. Vitamin C from fruits helps collagen formation, while zinc and omega-3s calm inflammation and support both skin and scalp health. Essentially, your meals become your beauty routine from the inside out.

Timing and Moderation Matter More Than You Think

Fasting isn’t a magic bullet. You can’t expect to skip meals for a week and suddenly have perfect skin or hair. In my experience, the benefits come with moderation and listening to your body. Short, consistent fasting periods tend to improve skin clarity and reduce puffiness, while longer or extreme fasts can cause more harm than good.

I encourage my readers to track how their skin and hair respond to different fasting windows. Keep notes on hydration, texture, breakouts, and hair shedding. Adjust accordingly, and don’t be afraid to eat nourishing meals if your body signals it needs fuel. True results come from respecting your body’s natural rhythm, not depriving it.

My Takeaway

Fasting can absolutely be a tool for beauty — for clearer skin, calmer inflammation, and healthy hair — but only if approached wisely. Hydrate, nourish, and respect your body’s limits. Remember, skipping meals isn’t the same as self-care, but balanced fasting, done correctly, can be a powerful ally.

Personally, I find that combining moderate fasting with a solid skincare routine and nutrient-rich meals creates a glow that no serum alone can achieve. It’s a lifestyle approach, not a quick fix.

💛 Save this post for your next fasting cycle and share your experience in the comments. I’d love to hear how fasting impacts your skin and hair!

10 Mascaras With 1,000+ Five-Star Reviews at Sephora

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10 Mascaras With 1,000+ Five-Star Reviews at Sephora

Mascara is one of those beauty products that’s hard to compromise on. Once you find a formula that delivers the right balance of volume, length and staying power, it tends to earn a permanent spot in your makeup bag. The problem is that getting there often involves testing countless tubes that end up smudging, flaking or clumping by midday.

That’s where Sephora reviews can be surprisingly helpful. When a mascara collects thousands of five-star ratings, it usually means the formula has genuinely earned its reputation, whether it’s for creating dramatic, false-lash-level volume, holding a curl from morning to night or staying smooth and flake-free through a full day of wear. Some of these mascaras have gone viral for their ability to transform lashes in a single coat, while others feature thoughtful details like flexible brushes that reach every lash or formulas that keep lashes soft instead of stiff.

Ahead, the mascaras that have earned 1,000+ five-star reviews on Sephora, i.e., formulas that real people say actually live up to the hype.

1 / 10

Few mascaras have achieved cult status quite like this one. The hourglass-shaped brush loads lashes with rich pigment while building serious thickness and volume. A couple coats deliver a bold, almost false-lash look that’s become its signature.

2 / 10

This mascara has become a cult favorite for its ability to lift lashes without weighing them down. The curved wand features hundreds of micro-bristles designed to fan lashes evenly from root to tip. The result is a feathery, fluttery look that still holds a curl throughout the day.

Lancôme Lash Idôle Lengthening & Volumizing Mascara

3 / 10

Benefit’s iconic mascara is known for its ability to grab even the tiniest corner lashes. The spiky brush separates and lengthens while keeping clumps at bay, making it a favorite among people who prefer more defined lashes.

Benefit Cosmetics They're Real! Lengthening Mascara

4 / 10

Rare Beauty’s mascara quickly gained a following for its weightless feel. The fluffy brush deposits pigment evenly, building volume while keeping lashes soft rather than stiff.

Rare Beauty Mascara

5 / 10

This mascara frequently appears on “best clean mascaras” lists for its nourishing formula and dual-sided wand. One side adds volume and the other separates lashes for a fanned-out effect. The lightweight formula is designed to lengthen without flaking or smudging.

ilia mascara

6 / 10

Tower 28 designed this mascara with sensitive eyes in mind. Its innovative triple-wave brush helps lift and define lashes while the flexible formula helps resist clumping.

tower 28 make waves mascara brown

7 / 10

This multitasking mascara aims to do it all—volumize, lengthen, curl and condition. The formula is designed to build easily without clumping, making it an easy everyday option.

Tarte Lights Camera Lashes 4-in-1 Mascara

8 / 10

A longtime classic, this mascara focuses on balanced definition rather than over-the-top drama. The formula builds easily, adding both volume and length while keeping lashes soft and separated.

CLINIQUE BLACK HONEY HIGH IMPACT MASCARA

9 / 10

If bold lashes are the goal, look no further. The oversized brush holds a generous amount of pigment, helping to coat lashes quickly for a fuller, more dramatic look. Iris extract is included in the formula to help keep lashes feeling conditioned rather than crunchy.

Yves Saint Laurent Lash Clash Extreme Volume Mascara

10 / 10

Unlike traditional mascaras, this tubing formula wraps each lash in lightweight fibers that create the effect of longer extensions (read: dramatic length and definition without flaking or smudging). When it’s time to remove, the tubes slide off easily with warm water instead of requiring makeup remover.

Hourglass Unlocked Instant Extensions Lengthening Mascara

I Had Surgery for Endometriosis—but Then Woke Up With a Different Diagnosis

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I Had Surgery for Endometriosis—but Then Woke Up With a Different Diagnosis

When I underwent laparoscopic surgery last month, I was looking forward to one thing: a definitive endometriosis diagnosis. For almost a year, doctors had suspected endometriosis was behind my painful periods and heavy bleeding—and possibly complicating my attempts to have a second child through IVF. Removing the displaced tissue, I was told, could help significantly.

Instead, I woke up to a different answer. The surgical team hadn’t found any endometriosis. Still coming out of anesthesia, I was sure I’d heard the nurse incorrectly. If it wasn’t endometriosis, then what the heck was it?

Later, in the recovery room, the surgeon said he suspected I had adenomyosis due to my enlarged and bulky uterus. I felt like my four-year-old daughter learning a new word: adenomyo-what?

“Because both endometriosis and adenomyosis are clinical diagnoses, there’s not a blood test that I can give you that confirms it,” explains Monica Christmas, MD, director of the Center for Women’s Integrated Health at the University of Chicago Medicine. Imaging can raise suspicion, but the only definitive diagnosis comes from pathology, typically after a hysterectomy—definitely not an option for me at this point.

On the ride home, sore and groggy, I did what many of us do after receiving unexpected medical news: I opened my phone and started googling.

Within minutes, I’d learned two things about my newfound diagnosis: Symptoms can improve after menopause and the only definitive cure is a hysterectomy. Neither of these felt especially compatible with my age (I’m 38), or my plans (I wanted to have a second child). So now what?

What is adenomyosis?

“Adenomyosis is when the endometrial tissue that should be lining the uterus somehow gets implanted in the muscle wall,” says Dr. Christmas. “When this tissue gets trapped within the muscle wall, it can lead to heavier, longer, and more painful menstrual cycles.”

Due to limited research, differing definitions and diagnostic criteria, it’s hard to determine the prevalence of adenomyosis with studies estimating anywhere from 5% to 70% of people suffer from the condition.

Symptoms can include heavy or prolonged bleeding, severe cramping, painful sex, pelvic pressure, and, in some cases, bleeding between cycles—especially after sex or exercise. “Anything that jostles the uterus can irritate that muscle wall,” Dr. Christmas says.

Unlike endometriosis, wherein endometrial tissue grows outside the uterus, adenomyosis occurs within the uterine wall itself. While both conditions can negatively impact quality of life, endometriosis is often considered more severe because of the impact it can have on the entire body, whereas adenomyosis is typically limited to pelvic pain and heavy periods.

Cosmic Brushes Angelic Palette vs Danessa Myricks Pastel Dream: A Comparison Review

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Cosmic Brushes Angelic Palette vs Danessa Myricks Pastel Dream: A Comparison Review

Cosmic Brushes Angelic Palette vs Danessa Myricks Pastel Dream: A Comparison Review, Swatches and more by Cordelia Frost

Hello beautiful people! Today I’m sharing my Cosmic Brushes Angelic Palette vs Danessa Myricks Pastel Dream: A Comparison Review. I purchased the Danessa Myricks Pastel Dream Freedom Mini Palette in August 2025. I was on a no buy for several months. Then I purchased the Cosmic Brushes Angelic Palette in February 2026, making it the first palette purchase of 2026 and what I broke my no buy for. Now that I’ve had ample time to play with both palettes, I feel comfortable comparing and reviewing them.

About my Skintone

I have a very fair neutral cool skintone. My current best complexion product matches include:

The swatch photos were taken inside my home in my living room under my bright living room lights.

Danessa Myricks Pastel Dream Freedom Mini Palette

I purchased the Danessa Myricks Pastel Dream Freedom Mini Palette for $48 USD, but it retails in Europe for €62.50 at Danessa’s EU website. This palette is cruelty free and vegan. Most of Danessa Myrick’s products are vegan.

Danessa Myricks Pastel Dream Freedom Mini Palette Review and Comparison by Cordelia Frost, indie makeup expert of two decadesDanessa Myricks Pastel Dream Freedom Mini Palette Review and Comparison by Cordelia Frost, indie makeup expert of two decades

Cosmic Brushes Angelic Palette vs Danessa Myricks Pastel Dream: A Comparison Review by Cordelia FrostCosmic Brushes Angelic Palette vs Danessa Myricks Pastel Dream: A Comparison Review by Cordelia Frost

The Danessa Myricks Lightwork Pastel Dream Mini Freedom Palette is made up of six shades, three of which are silky ultra blendable and buildable mattes, while the other three are shimmer shades. I purchased this palette solely for Galaxy Crush because I saw that color and fell in love! It’s a stunner!

Pastel Dream Palette Swatches on Fair Skin

All swatches are on bare skin with no primer.

Pastel Dream Palette swatches on Fair Skin by Cordelia FrostPastel Dream Palette swatches on Fair Skin by Cordelia Frost

Swatched in the following order on the left side: Gilded Dream, Pixie Quartz, and Galaxy Crush. On the right, Moondust, Pink Mirage, and Aqua Dream.

  • Gilded Dream – champagne gold sparkle with white gold shift
  • Pixie Quartz – pastel fuchsia multichrome with light canary shift
  • Galaxy Crush – mint green multichrome sparkle with amethyst smoke
  • Moondust – sienna brown matte
  • Pink Mirage – orchid pink matte
  • Aqua Dream – aquamarine matte

Personally, I find Moondust to pull very warm on my very fair neutral cool skintone. Unless I blend it out with an ivory matte, I really can’t wear the shade. Pink Mirage and Aqua Dream both work beautifully for me though. Galaxy Crush steals the show in the Pastel Dream palette. It’s such a gorgeous multidimensional color. Gilded Dream is beautiful, and if you have blue eyes, this will make them pop. Pixie Quartz is lovely, too.

Cosmic Brushes Angelic Palette

I purchased the Cosmic Brushes Angelic Palette for €25,95 from their website. Cosmic Brushes is cruelty free and vegan.

Cosmic Brushes Angelic Palette review by indie makeup expert, Cordelia FrostCosmic Brushes Angelic Palette review by indie makeup expert, Cordelia Frost

Cosmic Brushes Angelic Palette vs Danessa Myricks Pastel Dream: A Comparison Review from an indie makeup expertCosmic Brushes Angelic Palette vs Danessa Myricks Pastel Dream: A Comparison Review from an indie makeup expert

I love that the Angelic palette was inspired by the soft glow of the sun reflecting on fluffy clouds. It is twelve soft shades for creating ethereal looks. I purchased this palette because it was super cute, and I loved the color story. It also helps that I really like my two other Cosmic Brushes Palette, the Gothic and Cooltrails.

A Note about the Ingredients

The Cosmic Brushes matte shades are labeled as body pigments for USA customers. This is because the USA FDA has not approved some new ingredients for decades. These ingredients are approved for use in the UK and EU and are safe for use as far as I’m aware. I’ve used them with no issues on my sensitive eyes.

Angelic Swatches on Pale Skin

All swatches on bare skin. Sorry, I still do not have an office space or studio set up in my new home so I’m doing this in my living room.

Cosmic Brushes Angelic Palette Swatches on Pale Skin by Cordelia FrostCosmic Brushes Angelic Palette Swatches on Pale Skin by Cordelia Frost

On the left side from top to bottom we have Halo, Angelic, Illuminate, and Ethereal. I made these swatches extra wide to make it easier to see the two mattes that easily pair with each one. On the right side from top to bottom we have Graceful, Affirmation, Divine, Cherub, Elegant, Everlasting, Blessed and Transcend.

  • Halo – A shimmery topper in a peachy orange with yellow gold sparkles
  • Graceful – A pastel peachy matte
  • Affirmation – A rich orangey brown matte
  • Angelic – A sparkly blue/lavender topper shimmer with pink and silver particles
  • Divine – A midtone lavender matte
  • Cherub – A midtoned dusky pink matte that leans a little purple
  • Illuminate – A sparkly pale mint topper shimmer
  • Elegant – A turquoise matte
  • Everlasting – A deep muted teal blue matte
  • Ethereal – A glowy multichrome with an aqua base that shifts to purple, blue and turquoise
  • Blessed – A soft pastel cornflower blue matte
  • Transcend – A periwinkle matte

The only shade in the Cosmic Brushes Angelic palette that I find challenging to wear is Affirmation. All of the other shades work very well on my pale skin tone. The mattes are my favorite type, very buildable and blendable with good pigmentation. They’re not too stiff with pigment, which can make them more difficult to blend out. All of the shimmery shades are so much fun and you can combine and layer them with each other to create multidimensional looks. If you have hooded eyes, deepset eyes, or you prefer your eyeshadow palettes to contain more mattes than shimmers, this palette is for you.

Cosmic Brushes Angelic Look

Cosmic Brushes Angelic Palette look by Cordelia FrostCosmic Brushes Angelic Palette look by Cordelia Frost

For the Cosmic Brushes Angelic palette look I used Graceful, Everlasting, Halo, Illuminate and Elegant.

Cosmic Brushes Angelic Palette vs Danessa Myricks Pastel Dream: A Comparison Review

Many of you in the Hex Squad and on Instagram requested that I write this Cosmic Brushes Angelic Palette vs Danessa Myricks Pastel Dream: A Comparison Review. I think the Danessa Myricks Pastel Dream palette may not be as easy to obtain in the USA right now, but I do see it as available on Danessa’s EU site. While the Cosmic Brushes palette is easy to purchase via their UK website.

Comparison Swatches of Angelic vs. Pastel Dream

Cosmic Brushes Angelic Palette vs Danessa Myricks Pastel Dream: Comparison swatches on fair skin by Cordelia FrostCosmic Brushes Angelic Palette vs Danessa Myricks Pastel Dream: Comparison swatches on fair skin by Cordelia Frost

Swatches from top to bottom, left to right:

  • Halo – Pixie Quartz
  • Cherub – Pink Mirage
  • Illuminate – Galaxy Crush
  • Elegant – Aqua Dream
  • Graceful – Moondust
  • Affirmation
  • Graceful + Affirmation

While there were no direct 100% dupes, Cherub and Pink Mirage, along with Elegant and Aqua Dream, are very similar mattes. None of the shimmers or multichromes were 100% dupes either. I tried to make a Moondust dupe by mixing Graceful with Affirmation, but it just made a more flattering brown shade for me to wear than Affirmation on its own.

Swatch Video

This video shows swatches of the Cosmic Brushes Angelic palette, the Danessa Myricks Pastel Dream palette, the most similar shades in both palettes, and my Angelic palette look all in motion.

Who is Each Palette For?

The Danessa Myricks Pastel Dream palette is more for luxury indie makeup fans or people already invested in the Danessa freedom palette system. It’s gorgeous, but definitely more pricey than the Cosmic Brushes. Cosmic Brushes Angelic palette is for those who want a mostly cool toned ethereal palette with a few grounding neutrals.

How the Palettes are Similar

Both the Cosmic Brushes Angelic Palette and the Danessa Myricks Pastel Dream palette have pastel mattes and ethereal shimmer shades. I find both color stories to be dreamy and mostly cool toned. I love that aqua features prominently in both color stories. You get multichromes and shimmer toppers in both palettes. Both have at least one warm shade to balance the cooler ones.

I’m grateful that both brands are cruelty-free and vegan. They are also both independent brands. And the small size of the Angelic and Pastel Dream palettes make them ideal for travel.

How the Palettes Differ

Danessa Myricks Beauty is a USA based makeup brand by the amazing makeup artist Danessa Myricks. I’ve been lucky enough to meet her at the Makeup Show and New York Fashion Week, as well as take makeup classes from her and interview her. Cosmic Brushes is a UK based beauty brand.

Price Breakdown

Cosmic Brushes Angelic Palette is €25.95 for 12 shades. This breaks down to €2.16 per shade. Or if you only want to count eleven wearable shades, €2.36 per shade. It’s an incredibly affordable eyeshadow palette.

Pastel Dream is €62.50 for 6 shades. This breaks down to €10.42 per shade. Or if you only want to count five wearable shades, €12.50 per shade. That means Pastel Dream costs roughly ten times more per pan than Angelic.

Shade Depth Range

Angelic goes from very light pastels all the way to a deep muted teal and a rich orangey brown, giving you more range for a full eye look. Pastel Dream stays in a lighter, more uniformly pastel and luminous throughout. I find that I made monochromatic looks with Pastel Dream, while I feel more encouraged to mix hues with Angelic.

Which Palette do I Recommend?

Cosmic Brushes Angelic Palette is the overall winner for me for several reasons. First, it is the most affordable option by far. Second, it has a very well thought out color story. Third, it has a wonderful formula. Fourth, it’s great for travel. Fifth, it’s a great way to try multichromes, eyeshadow toppers, and high quality mattes.

Danessa Myricks palette has one shade that is really stand out to me that is not easy to dupe, Galaxy Crush. If you are already into the Danessa Myricks freedom palettes and have more of them, you can build your own palette by mixing and matching shadows.

Final Thoughts

As a makeup collector, I have no regrets over purchasing the Danessa Myricks Pastel Dream palette for Galaxy Crush. That said, I would not repurchase the entire palette, only that one shade, if I were looking to rebuy. I’m thrilled with the Cosmic Brushes Angelic palette because of the high quality mattes and how I can make all of the shades work for me, even Affirmation if I blend it with Graceful. While I love both palettes, I highly recommend the Cosmic Brushes Angelic palette if you’re looking for an affordable ethereal pastel palette that runs heavy on the mattes.

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The World’s #1 Retinal Serum Is 20% Off Right Now

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The World’s #1 Retinal Serum Is 20% Off Right Now

Last Updated on March 5, 2026 by omgbart

Yes, it’s the Medik8 icon.

Without a trace of sarcasm, I can say that Medik8 Crystal Retinal being named the #1 retinal serum worldwide* came as absolutely no surprise. Why? It really is that good. It’s quite rare that I agree with industry hype. Or trust a ranking. But as a long-time user of the formula, I concur. Also, if you’re in the US, I have a way for you to save 20% on your Medik8 order. Keep reading.

What is Retinal?

First, let’s start with what retinal is. More powerful than retinol, retinaldehyde is much more potent (and effective) than its more popular cousin. It also requires only one step to convert into retinoic acid in the skin (retinol takes 2 steps, retinyl palmitate takes 3 steps) and work on boosting collagen production. Retinal is a notch above retinol and a notch below prescription strength retinoid. It’s also one of my favorites and top picks I recommend in this retinol roundup post.

Me using the Medik8 Crystal Retinal serum.

What is the Crystal part about?

What makes Medic8 stand out in the retinol (or in this case, retinal) space is its ability to deliver a stable and highly effective formula. For years, many brands strayed from using retinal due to how expensive it is (and the level of craft aka science) it requires to keep stable.

Medik8 uses a proprietary crystal-shaped delivery system which encapsulates the retinal molecule for proper transit and absorption into and by the skin. This gradual release of retinaldehyde throughout the night minimizes the risk of irritation and allows the skin to embrace the ingredient without overindulging in its anti-aging strength. Too much of a good thing is still too much, right?

To ensure its exquisite performance from day of purchase to the last drop, Crystal Retinal comes in an airless tube with metal lining and pump dispenser. The formula also contains a carrot seed oil complex, a source of beta-carotene that helps support the integrity and potency of the formula.

Why I recommend retinal

Many people find retinal to be too strong. Some find retinal not effective. Here are the reasons. Some brands (hate to say it but I had this experience with Geek & Gorgeous) sell affordable versions of retinal formulas but their stability is far from impressive. My bottle of A-Game was effective at first but lost its luster within a few short weeks. It is also crucial to let your skin adjust and get used to retinal in as low a dose as possible at first.

What Medik8 does brilliantly is the gradual system of strength the Crystal Retinal comes in. You can choose from 1, 3, 6, 10, 20, and 24. Personally, I started at 6 and halfway through the bottle I knew I was ready for more. I then moved into the 10 strength territory. Years later, I am content at 10. Out of curiosity, I tried the 24 formula and found it to be extremely strong for my skin. I’m saying redness by morning and my skin is not sensitive by nature.

Comparing two Medik8 Crystal Retinal formulas on my skin.

How I Use Crystal Retinal 10

Since the creamy base is also very nourishing, I rarely experience redness, tightness or dryness while using this Medik8 product. During winter months (living in the Northeast of US), I would layer a richer moisturizer over it at night. In Spain, I find my tube of Crystal Retinal 10 to suffice on its own. Again, this methodology requires tweaking long enough to find your skin’s rhythm that balances the ideal ratio of tolerance and efficacy.

One tip I always follow before applying any retinal: load up the eye area and lips first. The skin in both zones is pore-free, which makes it far more vulnerable to dryness and flaking from retinoids. A generous pre-application of eye cream and lip balm acts as a barrier, keeping those areas protected through the night.

Now, about the promo code and discount…

If you’re shopping for Medik8 at dermstore.commy affiliate code OMGBART brings the price down by 20%. And while various strengths of Crystal Retinal come at different price points, the one I’m using (strength 10) retails at $109 yet comes down to $87.20 with my code.

Crystal Retinal 1 is $55, 3 is $65, 6 is $85, 10 is $109, 20 is $121, and 24 is $125. Each tube is 30ml.

*Ranked #1 retinal serum worldwide based on independent market research by Kline & Company, analyzing global retinal serum sales data for 2025. For more information, click here.

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.

Who’s in the cast of Married At First Sight Australia? Meet the 2026 line-up

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Who’s in the cast of Married At First Sight Australia? Meet the 2026 line-up

Every season comes with a few mature members of the cast, and Rebecca seems to be a stand-out character, as reports have described her as “the wildest bride yet”. What that means, we’ll have to wait and find out, but a source has shared that she was “overheard yelling on her balcony in between takes” and “she’s got this larger-than-life energy and doesn’t tone herself down for anyone”. Sounds like she’s going to bring a large dose of drama to this season.

While her age hasn’t been mentioned in reports shared online, she has been a businesswoman for over 20 years, so we assume she might be in her 40s. According to LinkedIn, Rebecca is a ‘results-driven Operations Manager with 20+ years of extensive leasing management, business development and key account management experience’.

@becky.jz

Luke Fourniotis

Channel 4

Outdoorsy, Melbourne-based farmer Luke is already a popular character online, thanks to his down-to-earth social content and not terrible physique. Plus, he loves dogs — he’s ticking boxes left, right and centre.

Interestingly, he’s already followed on Insta by MAFS UK bride, Polly Sellman. Now, that would be a crossover for the ages. It’s hard to tell how old Luke is, but he looks to us to be in his mid to late 20s. Will he be matched with a girl who loves hiking and animals — or someone more high maintenance who hates the outdoors? We’re willing to bet it’ll be the latter.

@lukefourn

Alissa Fay

Image may contain Daisy Beaumont Clothing Dress Fashion Formal Wear Gown Wedding Wedding Gown and Flower

Channel 4

Rom&nd Launches ‘Green Chemi Project’ to Recycle Color Cosmetics Packaging

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Rom&nd Launches ‘Green Chemi Project’ to Recycle Color Cosmetics Packaging

THE WHAT? Rom&nd has launched the “Green Chemi Project,” a recycling initiative aimed at collecting and repurposing empty color cosmetics containers.

THE DETAILS Operated by Ifamily SC, the global color cosmetics brand partnered with TerraCycle to address recycling challenges associated with small cosmetic packaging and containers with leftover product. The program accepts empty containers from Rom&nd and its color care brand Nuse, as well as expired or discolored products that are no longer usable.

Consumers can return items at the Rom&nd Pink Office in Seongsu-dong, Seoul, or participate through an online program via the brand’s website. Participants are offered incentives, including complimentary full-size cosmetic products for returning even a single item. Collected packaging will be processed through TerraCycle’s recycling system and converted into new materials, with resulting products and donation initiatives to be decided through consumer voting.

THE WHY? The initiative aims to reduce cosmetic packaging waste and improve recycling rates for small beauty containers that typically end up in general waste due to recycling limitations.

Source: Seoul Economic Daily

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