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Which MAFS Australia 2026 Couples Are Still Together?

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Which MAFS Australia 2026 Couples Are Still Together?

(Probably) not together

How cute were these two? That Love Actually moment during intimacy week was one of the sweetest things ever. One of this season’s faves, Rachel and Steven’s biggest hurdle was the very, very big distance between them — 900 km to be precise. When they made it to final vows, they actually decided to stay together.

“You’ve never asked me to tone it down, be less or shrink myself to fit beside you. You’ve let me, be me, completely, and that’s all I’ve ever wanted. I choose you Steven,” Rachel said.

Steven’s vows read: “I promise from this day forward, to show up for you, take every risk with you, and to never stop choosing you. I am falling for you.”

However, things aren’t looking great. Apparently, things ended just days after final vows. “Rachel gave everything to that relationship and everyone saw Steven start to come around at the end,” a source told Refinery29 Australia.

Channel 4

Not together

And to finish off a pretty unsuccessful season, we have Sam and Chris. Things quickly turned sour for this pair when Sam shared that he wasn’t ready for fatherhood — and Chris shared that he was expecting a child with a friend through IVF. There were plenty of arguments, and eventually, they called it quits.

And apparently, it was never going to work. “Off-camera, I got nothing from [Sam]. We went on one date,” Chris later told Nine. “He didn’t hold my hand, no affection. He didn’t even know my kids’ names. He didn’t know my mum’s name who came to the wedding, my sister’s name who came to the wedding.”

He added, “When there was a camera in front of Sam’s face, he said all the right things.”

As for Sam, he said, “I think it’s learned behaviour through his whole life, and getting Chris to change the way he reacts to feedback in just a couple of weeks was impossible. I think I just decided that I’m looking for someone who has that emotional maturity now, and not someone that I would need to work through these things with.”

Stella and Filip

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Nine/Seven.One Studios/Channel 4

What to Buy During the Sephora Spring Sale 2026

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What to Buy During the Sephora Spring Sale 2026

Last Updated on April 8, 2026 by omgbart

Ten products worth considering during the Sephora Spring Sale 2026, from a PDRN ampoule to the eye cream worth every penny of the splurge.

One of my core memories of early skincare obsession is saving up for the Sephora sale. I will never forget always snagging the Philosophy 2-Step Microdelivery Vitamin C Peel (it was $60 before the discount). Then adding the Fresh Black Tea Instant Perfecting Mask and feeling the ultimate rush. That was easily 20 years ago, when the only time you could get that kind of discount at Sephora was around Thanksgiving. Luckily for beauty obsessives everywhere, the event now happens in the spring too. And to be exact, it starts today.

Sephora storefront in Madrid, Spain.

Sale details:

Rouge members get early access and 20% off from April 10 to 20. VIB members get 15% off from April 14 to 20. Insiders get 10% off from April 14 to 20.

Sephora purchases on a marble tray.

What I am showing you today is ten picks that are absolutely making my “best of”  list. Nine things I can fully recommend, and one I am zooming in on to try myself. Because if you read my best bronzer roundup, you already know that matte bronzers that make you look rested are very much my thing.

Sephora product picks to shop during the sale.

This one feels a little different, because Sephora feels a little different right now. I have watched this retailer shift over the years in ways that were by turns confusing, intriguing, and often disappointing. Am I the only one who thinks something is happening at Sephora that feels like a return to basics? The K-beauty presence has also grown noticeably, which matters since Amazon can be hit or miss with authentic imports.

Here are my ten picks to consider for the Spring Sale.

Arencia mochi cleanser in green tea scent.

Arencia Fresh Green Rice Mochi Cleanser

At first I thought this was a balm-style formula built for double cleansing. It is not. Arencia has mastered the all-in-one with this product. Named after a dessert, the cleanser only slightly resembles actual mochi in texture. It is creamy, slightly gritty, and incredibly effective at a deep yet gentle cleanse. What it does with tinted sunscreen and anything pigmented, in a single step, is almost uncanny.

I apply it to dry or damp skin, and keep in mind that the creamy paste lathers generously, so a hazelnut-sized amount is all you need. The green tea scent is faint, pleasant, and does not linger.

$19 / 120g

SK-II Pitera Essence

SK-II Facial Treatment Essence

Few things are as iconic as the SK-II Pitera Essence. Impressively simple in composition, this straightforward liquid step is known for its ability to boost hydration and glow. And it is totally worth the hype. Treasured across some of the most coveted vanities, this yeast ferment derivative is packed with micronutrients including minerals, vitamins, and amino acids.

I have dipped in and out of this formula for over two decades and I can always tell when it is back in my routine consistently. How? My skin is noticeably more radiant, even-toned, and just fresher looking. Skip the cotton pad. Splash it into your palm and press directly into skin. Ten out of ten. No notes.

$99 / 75ml

Caudalie glycolic brightening essence.

Caudalie Vinoperfect Brightening Glycolic Essence

If you are acid toner-curious, or looking to switch to a gentler liquid exfoliantstart here. Caudalie makes one of my favorite night creams, but this brightening solution is not to be ignored. Unlike the grape water, this formula was tweaked to its benefit and is better than the original. Powered by glycolic acid and white peony root extract, it tackles hyperpigmentation and texture issues with real precision. The addition of arginine and glycerin helps improve elasticity and prevents transepidermal water loss.

I find it genuinely refreshing on application. It is not a zippy acid toner and there is no tingle, but if you have sensitive skin, ease into it. This is a potent formula. I am a big fan and prefer it applied with a cotton pad. Also, and this is important: zero sticky residue.

$45 / 100ml

Rejuran double effect ampoule for aging skin.

Rejuran Dual Effect Ampoule c-PDRN® 0.5%

I am not delusional enough to take skincare advice from Kris Jenner. But the confusing spokesperson situation aside, this product is fantastic. PDRN can be a murky ingredient space, and many products touting it deliver very little in terms of results. Rejuran is the authority here, and this ampoule proves it. Utilizing a marine-based growth factor derived from salmon DNA (that would be c-PDRN®), the skin-repairing serum also features niacinamide and a solid antioxidant complex.

Having tried both Rejuran ampoules, I have a slight preference for the Dual Effect because my skin is feeling noticeably firmer halfway through the bottle. Speaking of which, I only use half the syringe-style pipette per application.

$55 / 30ml

Augustinus Bader The Rich Eye Cream with applicator.

Augustinus Bader The Rich Eye Cream

I do not want to love this one as much as I do. But such is life. Augustinus Bader may be best known for The Rich Cream (full review here)but if you were to pick just one item to treat yourself to this round, make it The Rich Eye Cream. As a firm believer in eye cream, I cannot begin to tell you how much this one impressed me. Rich but not greasy, it strikes a perfect balance of hydration and moisture to keep the eye area looking alert, firm, and rested.

What is impressive for a product that does this much, the texture is genuinely ideal for daytime wear. You do not have to be an Augustinus Bader devotee to get behind this one. It is the eye cream worth the splurge.

$215 / 15ml

MILK Makeup Hydro Grip concealer.

Milk Makeup Hydro Grip Gel Stick Concealer

Still not over how well the Hydro Grip Gel concealer works. I wrote a dedicated post about this concealer right when it launched and I stand by every word. Unlike most concealers, this formula delivers one of the most satisfying glides on skin. It blends effortlessly, covers just enough, and lasts all day. Effective and user-friendly: both non-negotiable for the perfect concealer.

As someone who rarely wears makeup, I am extremely picky about natural-looking results, and Milk Makeup exceeded my expectations with this one. I wear shade 4.5. That’s all.

$29 / 3g

K18 hair mask for damaged hair.

K18 Leave-In Molecular Repair Hair Mask

For someone who is into his hair, I sure resisted splurging on this one. Too many people messaging me saying I had to try it eventually wore me down. They were not wrong. K18 made something genuinely unique here. It is a leave-in peptide treatment that goes on shampooed hair in place of conditioner. I wear it overnight. It does not deliver that silky, nourished feeling but the softness it produces is so remarkable it feels like my hair has undergone a genetic mutation.

Repair is the keyword, because it really does leave you with a put-back-together feeling. This is coming from someone who does not color his hair but uses heated tools daily. And lots of styling product. The price is a tad out there, but my short hair only needs one pump per application, which helps.

$75 / 50ml

Kerastase leave-in cream for damaged hair.

Kérastase Nectar Thermique Nutritive Heat Protecting Styling Cream

I will forever stock up on this whenever it goes on sale. I could use dollar store shampoo and conditioner, apply this Kérastase cream on top, and still feel like I walked out of a high-end salon. Nothing has ever made my hair feel this soft, manageable, nourished, and healthy. The silkiness is surreal. Unlike countless other leave-in formulas I have tried to switch to, the Thermal Nectar cannot be beaten. The large tube lasts me close to a year. Yes, it is that efficient.

$50 / 150ml

AKT London deodorant cream in scent Onsen.

AKT Deodorant Balm

If you can get excited about a deodorantyou know the product is doing something right. And AKT is very much doing something right. The cream formula has a slight learning curve but once you get it, you may never go back. The way this product keeps my underarms dry, clean, and fresh for 24 hours borders on sorcery. The Orange Grove scent is my favorite but I am currently working through a tube of The Onsen. My most recent empty was Halcyon Summer, also a winner. For a more detailed breakdown, read my full AKT post here.

$29 / 50ml

Same Suede bronzer in powder form.

Saie SuperSuede Radiant Talc-Free Baked Powder Bronzer

This is what I am trying the second I walk into a Sephora this week. Since I absolutely love the Saie Dew Balm Bronzer (as shown in this post)I am genuinely curious about this baked powder formula. Early reviews suggest the shades run warm, which is why I want to see it in person, but if I had to blind buy I would go with Amalfi or Portofino. The latter probably makes more sense for me since I like my bronzing to have a slight contour effect.

$32 / 8g

What to buy during the Sephora sale?

Twenty-something years on from that philosophy duo and the Sephora sale still gets my attention like it is an event. Because it is. The difference now is that I am more deliberate about it. Less about filling a basket, more about the one or two things genuinely worth the splurge.

Rouge access opens April 10, everyone else joins April 14. Shop my picks via the links below and visit my discount codes page for additional savings across the brands I use and recommend.

Shop at sephora.com.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase through them, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Which Is Better for Skin

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Which Is Better for Skin

What should you know before choosing a sunscreen?

Choosing the right sunscreen starts with understanding the difference between mineral sunscreen and chemical sunscreen. Both protect your skin from UV damage, but they work in different ways. A face sunscreen is essential every day, rain or shine, hot or cold, to help maintain healthy, radiant skin.

Mineral formulas reflect UV rays, while chemical formulas absorb them. If you’re looking for a clean, skin-loving SPF, explore bareMinerals’ Mineral Sunscreen Collection.

What is mineral sunscreen and how does it work?

Mineral sunscreen (or physical sunscreen) uses ingredients like zinc oxide sunscreen to sit on the skin and reflect UV rays.

Aligned with BareMinerals’ clean beauty philosophy, these formulas are gentle, non-irritating, and ideal for sensitive skin. They also layer effortlessly with complexion products, like a tinted moisturizer for a natural, even finish.

What is chemical sunscreen and how is it different?

A chemical sunscreen, or UV absorption sunscreen, works by absorbing UV rays and releasing them as heat. These formulas are often a lightweight sunscreen option with an invisible finish.

The main difference? Mineral reflects, chemical absorbs.

Build your full routine here.

Which sunscreen is better for sensitive or acne prone skin?

For sunscreen for sensitive skin or sunscreen for acne, mineral formulas are typically the best choice. They’re a gentle sunscreen option that’s often non-comedogenic and supports the skin barrier.

Pair your SPF with breathable setting products for a flawless finish.

Which sunscreen gives a more natural and dewy finish?

Today’s mineral formulas deliver more than protection—they create a radiant, dewy sunscreen effect for naturally glowing skin sunscreen results. With hydrating benefits, a hydrating sunscreen can double as a luminous base under makeup. For all of these benefits, try our new BARESKIN® Daily Dewy Sunscreen Mineral SPF 30.

How do you choose the best sunscreen for daily use?

The best sunscreen for everyday depends on your skin type, desired finish, and routine. A daily sunscreen should feel lightweight, blend easily, and work seamlessly with your makeup.

Which sunscreen is right for your routine?

When it comes to mineral vs chemical sunscreenboth protect—but mineral stands out for its gentle, clean approach and skin-enhancing benefits. For everyday wear, BARESKIN® Daily Dewy Sunscreen Mineral SPF 30 is a natural fit for a clean routine.

Explore the Mineral Sunscreen Collection.

FAQs

1. Is mineral sunscreen better than chemical sunscreen?
In the mineral vs chemical sunscreen debate, it depends on your skin. Mineral formulas are ideal for sensitive skin thanks to their gentle, sit-on-top protection.

2. What is the difference between mineral and chemical sunscreen?
The difference between mineral and chemical sunscreen is simple: mineral reflects UV rays, while chemical absorbs them.

3. Is mineral sunscreen good for sensitive skin?
Yes—mineral SPF is a great sunscreen for sensitive skin, especially with soothing ingredients like zinc oxide.

4. Does mineral sunscreen leave a white cast?
Modern formulas minimize mineral sunscreen white cast, blending in for a more natural or dewy finish.

5. Can you wear mineral sunscreen every day?
Absolutely. Daily sunscreen is essential, and mineral SPF is ideal for everyday use under makeup.

6. Which sunscreen is better under makeup?
For sunscreen under makeup, modern mineral formulas offer a smooth, dewy base that layers beautifully.

Why Your Mask Matters – 100% PURE

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Why Your Mask Matters – 100% PURE

Close your eyes for a moment and imagine the first truly warm afternoon of spring. The sun is higher in the sky, the air carries the scent of new blossoms, and there is a palpable sense of energy returning to the earth. But as you catch your reflection, you might notice that your skin hasn’t quite received the memo. After months of hunker-down winter weather, indoor heating, and heavy layers, the complexion can often feel “hushed”—a little tired, a little shadowed, and lacking that vibrant bounce we crave.

I want to invite you into a sensorial sanctuary. At 100% PURE, we don’t believe skincare should ever feel like a chore on a to-do list. We believe it should be a 15-minute sanctuary for both your skin and your soul. Today, we’re diving deep into a product that defines the “Spring Awakening” experience: the Vitamin C Glow Max Bright Mask. This isn’t just a step in a routine; it is a cooling, revitalizing ritual designed to lift the veil of winter and reveal the luminous, healthy-looking skin that has been waiting underneath all along.

When you apply this mask, the world slows down. The immediate cooling sensation is like a fresh breeze for your face, signaling to your nervous system that it’s time to rest while your skin begins its transformation. It is about emotional generosity—giving yourself the gift of a visible “glow-up” in the time it takes to brew a pot of tea.

Beyond the Surface: Why Texture is a Technology

In the beauty world, we often talk about ingredients, but we rarely talk about texture as a form of advanced technology. As your guide in Science-Backed PurityI want to pull back the curtain on why the “jelly” consistency of our mask is a deliberate engineering choice made in our San Jose lab, Purity Park.

Many conventional masks are made with clays that dry down and crack, which can actually pull essential moisture out of the skin, or thin liquids that evaporate before their active ingredients can truly migrate into the epidermis. Our “jelly” technology is different. It is designed to “hug” the contours of your face, creating a physical occlusive barrier.

The Science of the “Hug”

This jelly texture acts as a delivery system. By staying moist on the skin for the full 15 minutes, it prevents the evaporation of our high-performance actives like Bakuchiol, CoQ10and Vitamin C. This pressure and hydration “push” the nutrients deeper into the surface layers of the skin. This is the PureScience Protocol in action: we don’t just choose potent ingredients; we engineer the texture to ensure those ingredients actually perform.

When you feel that bouncy, cooling gel on your cheeks, you aren’t just feeling a “nice” product—you are experiencing a vertically controlled, pharmaceutical-grade delivery system that ensures maximum efficacy without the need for harsh synthetic polymers.

The “Big Three” of the Glow Max Bright Mask: A Triple-Threat Transformation

At 100% PURE, we practice Active Sovereignty. This means we give your skin the high-performance tools it needs to govern its own renewal process. In the Vitamin C Glow Max Bright Maskwe have curated a “triple-threat” of power players that target light, texture, and energy simultaneously.

1. Vitamin C: The Architect of Light

We cannot talk about radiance without talking about Vitamin C. As our co-founder Susie Wang discovered back in 1999, Vitamin C is the gold standard for brightening, but only if it stays stable. In this mask, we use a stabilized form of Vitamin C that works to neutralize free radicals and support an even-looking skin tone. It acts as the “architect of light,” helping to diminish the appearance of dark spots and sallow undertones, leaving the skin looking “lit-from-within”.

2. Bakuchiol: The Gentle Revolution

For years, the industry told us that if we wanted smooth, refined skin texture, we had to use retinol—and accept the peeling, redness, and irritation that came with it. We refused that compromise. Enter Bakuchiolthe plant-derived alternative to retinol. Bakuchiol offers the same age-defying benefits—smoothing the look of fine lines and refining the appearance of pores—but with a gentle, restorative touch that is safe for even the most sensitive skin. It’s part of our Conscious Chemistry approach: clinical results without the clinical trauma.

3. CoQ10: The Cellular Battery

If your skin looks tired, it’s often because your cells lack the “energy” to renew themselves. CoQ10 acts like a tiny cellular battery. It provides the energy needed for skin to repair itself from the “oxidative stress” of modern life—pollution, blue light, and UV rays. By infusing the skin with CoQ10, we are supporting its natural resilience and vitality, ensuring that your spring glow isn’t just a surface effect, but a deep, healthy transformation.

Prepping and Sealing the Glow: The Radiance Ecosystem

A mask is a powerful treatment, but it doesn’t work in a vacuum. To achieve the ultimate “Spring Awakening,” you need an ecosystem of products that “talk” to one another.

The Essential Prep: Virgin Coconut Moisturizing Milk Foam

Before you apply your mask, you must clear the path. Our Virgin Coconut Moisturizing Milk Foam is the perfect partner for this ritual. Using lauric acid, it gently “detoxes” the pores and removes surface impurities. Most importantly, it doesn’t strip your lipids. By starting with a hydrated, “Milk-Foam fresh” canvas, the mask’s jelly technology can better adhere to the skin and deliver its nutrients more effectively.

The Deep Infusion: Brightening Serum

Once you rinse away the mask, your skin is in its most receptive state. You have just “cleared the path” by removing dulling dead skin cells. This is the moment to apply the Brightening Serum. Because the mask has polished the surface, the sake and licorice root in the serum can penetrate even deeper, layering benefits upon benefits.

The Protective Seal: Vitamin C Face Cream & Eye Cream

Finally, you must protect your newly revealed radiance. Our Vitamin C Face Cream and Vitamin C Eye Cream act as a protective seal. They lock in the serum and mask nutrients while providing an all-day shield of stabilized antioxidants. This ensures that your “Glow-Up” doesn’t fade by lunchtime but stays vibrant, plump, and rejuvenated until the sun goes down.

The Purity Park Difference: Why “Where” Matters

In 2026, the consumer knows that a brand is only as good as its standards. Many brands outsource their manufacturing to massive third-party labs where “clean” is just a checkbox. At 100% PURE, we do things differently. We make our masks, serums, and creams in our own San Jose facilityPurity Park.

This vertical control allows us to maintain a “chain of custody” for every ingredient. We know exactly when the Bakuchiol was sourced and exactly how the Vitamin C was stabilized. We operate like a “Beauty Bakery,” making products in small, fresh batches to ensure that the antioxidants are at their peak potency when they touch your skin. When you use the Glow Max Bright Mask, you aren’t just getting a formula; you’re getting 25 years of ethical refusal and scientific rigor.

Conclusion: You Deserve an Instant Transformation

At the heart of the 100% PURE brand is a sense of Emotional Generosity. We know that life is busy, demanding, and sometimes draining. We believe that your beauty routine should be the place where you get something back.

The Vitamin C Glow Max Bright Mask is our way of giving you an instant transformation. In just 15 minutes, you can see a version of yourself that looks more rested, more vibrant, and more “you”. It is the fastest way to feel “Spring Awakened.” Whether you are preparing for a special event or simply taking a moment for yourself on a quiet Sunday morning, know that this mask was made with a deep, sincere desire to help you look and feel your absolute best.

You deserve skin that glows with health. You deserve formulas you can trust. And most of all, you deserve to feel pampered, cared for, and beautifully revitalized.

FAQ Section

How often should I use a Vitamin C mask during the spring?

For a true “Spring Awakening,” we recommend using the Vitamin C Glow Max Bright Mask2 to 3 times a week. This frequency allows the mask to consistently clear away dullness while the Bakuchiol and CoQ10 work on long-term texture and cellular energy. If you have an important event, it’s the perfect “pre-glow” treatment to use the morning of for an instant boost in radiance.

Can I use the Glow Max Bright Mask if I’m also using the Brightening Serum?

Absolutely! In fact, they are designed to work as a synergistic duo. The mask acts as the “polisher,” removing the dead skin cells that can act as a barrier to your serum. By using the mask first, you are ensuring that the sake and licorice in the Brightening Serum can sink in deeper and work more effectively. It’s a perfect example of benefit-stacking for a high-performance result.

Is the Bakuchiol in this mask safe for sensitive skin?

Yes, this is one of the most beautiful things about Bakuchiol! While traditional retinol can be very “angry” on sensitive skin, leading to redness and peeling, Bakuchiol is a “gentle revolution”. It provides the refined texture and age-defying benefits of a retinoid but with a soothing, restorative profile. Combined with our cooling jelly texture and hydrating aloe base, it leaves sensitive skin feeling calm and refreshed, not irritated.

Why is the “jelly” texture better than a clay mask for dry skin?

Clay masks are “extractive”—they are designed to pull oils out of the skin, which can be devastating for dry or dehydrated spring skin. Our jelly texture is “infusive.” It uses a moisture-rich base to push hydration and stabilized Vitamin C into the skin. It leaves your complexion feeling plump, dewy, and supple, rather than “squeaky” and tight.

What is the “Happy Promise” regarding the mask?

We want you to fall in love with the experience of masking. If you try the Vitamin C Glow Max Bright Mask and don’t feel that instant “Spring Awakening” within 60 days, we’ll take it back. We offer an exchange or refund on gently used products within 60 days of purchase from 100percentpure.com, minus shipping costs. We believe in our formulas, and we believe in your satisfaction—pure and simple.

How does CoQ10 help my skin “wake up” for spring?

Think of CoQ10 as a “bio-battery” for your skin cells. During the winter, skin metabolism can slow down, leading to a sallow, “tired” look. CoQ10 provides the essential energy needed for skin cells to perform their natural repair and renewal processes. By supporting this cellular energy, the mask helps your skin “wake up” and act like its younger, more vibrant self.

Skincare is an act of “Active Sovereignty.” By choosing the right textures and the right science, you are taking control of your radiance. Let this spring be the season you stop “managing” your skin and start celebrating it. We can’t wait for you to feel the cooling, revitalizing touch of the Glow Max Bright Mask. Here’s to your most luminous season yet!

7 Foods That’ll Speed Up Muscle Recovery After a Hard Workout, According to Fitness Experts

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7 Foods That’ll Speed Up Muscle Recovery After a Hard Workout, According to Fitness Experts

Even though working out is good for you, it can sometimes leave you feeling pretty bad. Intense muscle pain, stiffness, and tenderness—delayed-onset muscle soreness (DOMS) to insiders—is a common post-workout complaint, especially among people who are returning to exercise after a break and those who are trying a new type of exercise for the first time.

While DOMS is actually a sign that your workout was effective—physical activity causes micro-tears in muscle fibers that triggers them to knit back together stronger, resulting in muscle growth—it can cause discomfort (at best) and interfere with your ability to function (at worst). Depending on the severity of your DOMS case, you might even find it tough to take the stairs for a few days.

If ibuprofen or hot or cold compresses are your first-line treatment for treat post-workout aches and pains, you may be surprised to learn that some of the most accessible remedies aren’t found in your medicine cabinet, but in your fridge or pantry. Incorporating them into your diet can fight the inflammation induced by that muscle fiber damage to help you bounce back faster. When you eat the right things after a workout, “it tells your body to start the restoration process,” Amy Stephens, MS, RDN, CSSD, a sports nutrition consultant for NYU Athletics who specializes in performance nutrition and eating disorder treatment for competitive athletes, tells SELF.

Several nutrients are crucial

When eating for workout recovery, you should prioritize protein and carbs. Protein famously helps support your muscles by providing the amino acids they need to mend tears. Shoot for around 20 to 30 grams for best results, according to Stephens. Meanwhile, carbs—the body’s primary energy source—increase your blood sugar, or blood glucose, and, in turn, trigger the pancreas to secrete insulin (a hormone that tells the body’s cells to absorb glucose to prevent an overload). During that process, the circulating protein is also absorbed—and the repair process begins in the muscles. Carbs “are something that get overlooked a lot, but they’re really a recovery spark,” Tyler McDonald, NASM-CPT, CNC, a certified personal trainer specializing in tennis and a senior brand marketing manager for the National Academy of Sports Medicine, tells SELF.

You can think of the protein-carbs duo as kind of a nutritional dream team. Without protein, your muscles won’t have the amino acids they need to rebuild: “While you’re sparking the transport needed in your body, you don’t necessarily have the right nutrient mix,” McDonald explains. Without carbs, on the other hand, those amino acids won’t reach your muscles as speedily. (Not to mention you also might feel more tired and fatigued!) Most authorities recommend a three-to-one ratio of carbs to protein in a post-workout snack or meal. If you ate 20 grams of protein, you’d want 60 grams of carbs, for example. If possible, throw in some healthy fats—the third macro—as well.

Treating Skin Changes After GLP-1 Weight Loss

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Treating Skin Changes After GLP-1 Weight Loss

GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and Wegovy have changed lives. Millions of people are experiencing meaningful, sustained weight loss and the health benefits that come with it. At Apex Skin, providers are seeing that firsthand.

“Patients are coming in feeling healthier, more confident, and excited about their progress,” says Dana Baker, RN. “The conversations we have around skin are more about refinement. Things like maintaining facial balance, supporting skin, and optimizing overall results after weight loss.”

Dana herself has had a positive experience with GLP-1s. Having lost 55 pounds, she understands the journey from both sides of the exam table.

“I’m very pro GLP-1s. They’ve been a game changer for so many patients, not just physically but mentally and emotionally as well.”

The reality is that when your body changes, your skin is part of that change too.  And while the medication has positive skin effects like improvements in patients who have inflammatory skin conditions, some outcomes leave patients wanting to make some aesthetic improvements.

“Having gone through it myself, I can relate to both the excitement of the results and the desire to feel like everything matches how good you feel,” Dana says. “You’re not doing anything wrong. This is just part of the process for some patients. The good news is we have so many ways to support you along the way.”

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Curious about weight loss programs at Apex? Learn more about our semaglutide treatment.

What Is “Ozempic Face” and Is It Actually a Problem?

The term gets a lot of attention, but Dana is quick to reframe it.

“The term ‘Ozempic face’ drives me crazy,” she says. “It’s simply facial volume changing as body fat decreases. When you lose weight, no matter how you do it, you can lose some of that natural fullness in the face. It’s not a bad thing. It just shifts facial balance a bit.”

That shift tends to show up first in the cheeks, under-eyes, and around the mouth. The degree of change varies based on age, skin quality, and how much weight has been lost. Older patients, whose skin has less elasticity to begin with, may notice more pronounced changes than younger ones. However, most patients don’t come in describing dramatic differences, just subtle shifts.

“Patients just feel like they look a little more tired than they expected. It’s rarely dramatic, just enough that they want to refresh things.”

“Ozempic Face” Treatment: What Actually Works

The good news is that facial volume loss after weight loss is one of the most well-addressed concerns in aesthetic medicine. There are effective, natural-looking options at multiple price points and timelines.

  • Biostimulators like Sculptra provide a gradual, natural-looking improvement by rebuilding collagen over time.
  • Dermal fillers can be used strategically to restore structure and support.
  • Exion RF microneedling is a strong option for improving skin quality and firmness, using radiofrequency energy to trigger the body’s natural healing and collagen production response.
  • EmFace lifts and tightens the face including areas like the eyes, chin, eyebrows, neck and jawline.

One patient Dana has helped was experiencing noticeable volume loss through the mid-face. Dana used dermal fillers which can restore structure and volume to the cheeks, temples, and under-eye area relatively quickly, with results that look refreshed rather than overdone.

“The end result was very natural, just a refreshed, well-rested version of her.”

One important timing consideration: Dana recommends that patients be close to their goal weight or at a stable point before pursuing filler treatments specifically so you can create a result that lasts and doesn’t need constant adjusting. Starting too early during active weight loss can mean results that need to be revisited more frequently.

Hair Loss After GLP-1 Medications: What’s Happening and How to Help

Hair shedding is one of the side effects that catches patients most off guard. It often starts a few months into their weight loss journey, and it can feel alarming.

“Hair shedding is usually related to rapid weight loss and the body adjusting, not the medication itself,” Dana explains. “It’s a temporary phase that we can absolutely support.”

The clinical term is telogen effluvium, a stress response in which more hair follicles than usual shift into a resting and shedding phase. It is triggered by the physiological stress of rapid weight change. For most patients, it is temporary.

Nutrition plays a meaningful role in recovery. “Protein intake is key, along with making sure you’re getting the right vitamins and nutrients,” Dana says. “Hair is not a priority for the body during rapid weight loss, so we want to give it the support it needs to bounce back.”

At Apex, patients dealing with GLP-1 related hair loss have access to both Nutrafol and Xtresse, professional-grade supplements designed to support hair regrowth from the inside out. Combined with in-office treatments, patients typically notice decreased shedding first, followed by gradual regrowth over the following months.

Skin Tightening After Weight Loss: Addressing Laxity Beyond the Face

Beyond the face, the most common areas Dana sees skin laxity is in the abdomen, arms, inner thighs, and above the knees.

The skin in these areas has been stretched over time and may not snap back fully after significant weight loss, particularly in older patients or those who lost weight quickly. The mechanisms are the same as what happens in the face: reduced fat support combined with collagen and elastin that needs time and help to catch up.

EmSculpt Neo addresses muscle tone by simultaneously addressing fat and building muscle, using radiofrequency energy and high-intensity focused electromagnetic energy, helping patients achieve a more toned, contoured result in areas like the abdomen, arms and legs.

How Apex Approaches the GLP-1 Aesthetic Journey

No two patients are in the same place. Some are just starting a GLP-1 and want to be proactive. Others have already reached their goal weight and are ready to address specific concerns. Some are managing hair thinning, facial changes, and body laxity all at once.

“We take a layered approach. Typically, we start with what’s most noticeable to the patient, often facial balance, then build from there with skin tightening and hair support. It’s very customized and done in phases so everything looks natural.”

Ready to Talk About Your Next Step?

Whether you are currently on a GLP-1 medication, approaching your goal weight, or already there and ready to address some of the aesthetic changes, Apex Skin’s team is here to be your partner.

The Apex Skin Total Body Program is designed to help you lose weight safely and sustainably, guided by an expert. A medically guided path to weight loss using GLP-1 medications combined with support for your overall appearance, confidence, and long-term results.

Book a consultation with one of our providers to talk through your goals and build a plan that makes sense for you.

The post Treating Skin Changes After GLP-1 Weight Loss appeared first on Apex Skin.

Holidermie calls on ACT Beauty for its discovery kit

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Holidermie calls on ACT Beauty for its discovery kit

Holidermie requested ACT Beauty to make a polycotton travel kit which also serves as packaging for the brand’s discovery offer. The illustration of a 2-in-1 packaging.

This travel-sized essential bag is made from pink polycotton, highlighted with contrasting piping. The logo and tagline screen-printed on either side of the kit sign the brand and its commitment.

Its zipper, equipped with a painted metal puller engraved with the logo, allows a wide opening, facilitating access to the contents. The external side pocket, also discreetly formalized by piping, as well as the interior pocket add to its practical side.


Created in 2019 by Melanie HuynhHolidermie advocates a holistic approach to beauty. Beauty seen as global, which revolves around personalized rituals combining mixed, natural and antioxidant cosmetic treatments, food supplements designed to act in synergy with the composition of the treatments, and beauty tools. It is based on three pillars: cosmetic treatments and food supplements associated with self-massage routines.

Your Complete Foot Care Guide for Healthy, Comfortable Feet

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Your Complete Foot Care Guide for Healthy, Comfortable Feet

As winter boots give way to sandals, it’s the perfect time to refresh your foot care routine. Don’t let open-toe season catch you off guard this year—start repairing dry feet and cracked heels now so your feet feel comfortable, supported, and sandal-ready as soon as the weather warms up.

Everyday Foot Health: Preventive Care for All Ages

Keeping your feet ready for spring starts with daily foot care. Here are a few simple habits that can make a big difference when it comes to keeping your feet in tip-top condition:

  • Use a gentle foot cream or balm daily to manage dryness and support healing for stubborn cracked heels. Flexitol Very Balm and Glysomed Foot Balm help restore hydration and strengthen the skin barrier, keeping feet happy all year.
  • A mild physical exfoliant, like a body scrubused regularly on the feet, helps remove rough skin and keep feet soft without resorting to harsher chemical exfoliants. Remember to moisturize after!
  • Quality nail tools, like the Kiss Professional Pedicure Kit, keep nails trimmed and clean, which can help prevent ingrown nails and irritation.
  • Dr. Scholl’s Odour Destroyers Medicated Foot Powder and other odour-control products can help keep feet feeling fresh as temperatures rise. Simply shake the powder in your shoes and go!

LD Tip: See a Pharmacist for Foot Care Tips

Not sure which products are right for you? London Drugs pharmacists can offer guidance on minor foot ailments, fungal concerns, and choosing appropriate foot care solutions.

Step Into Active Comfort: Support for Busy, On-the-Go Feet

Our feet support us day in and day out—it’s time to return the favour! Overall comfort and mobility start with healthy feet, and as outdoor activity increases in the spring, foot care is especially important.

Choose Proper Footwear and Support

Start with preventative measures by making sure your footwear fits properly and matches your activity level.

  • Check your fit! Shoes that are too tight, too loose, or worn unevenly can contribute to discomfort and strain.
  • Get your gait checked, too. Many running shoe stores offer free gait analysis to address concerns for wear and tear on your feet.
  • Adding insoles is one of the quickest ways to boost foot comfort and help reduce strain during long walks or runs. Insoles from Dr. Scholl’s or Profoot provide more arch support and padding than many insoles that come with shoes.
  • Supportive insoles may also help relieve pressure associated with plantar fasciitis, easing stress on the heel during extended periods of walking or standing and providing plantar fasciitis support.

Prevent Blisters Before They Start

Blisters are distracting, and they’re often unavoidable when breaking in brand-new footwear.

  • First things first: blister prevention. If you know where blisters tend to form, apply blister pads from brands like 2nd Skin before irritation begins.
  • Instead of wearing your new kicks for an eight-hour shift or 5k run right out of the box, break them in gradually. Wearing new footwear for shorter periods helps reduce friction and pressure, leading to a comfier fit (and happier feet!) in the long term.
  • Moisture can increase rubbing inside shoes and contribute to blister formation. Moisture-wicking socks and products like Gold Bond Foot Powder can help keep feet dry and reduce friction inside your shoes.

Support Recovery After Activity

Recovery and aftercare are important parts of maintaining your feet. Start a post-activity routine to keep your feet ready for whatever comes next.

  • Lean back and relax in a bath with an EcoEssentials Epsom salt soak to help ease soreness and reduce fatigue. Epsom salt helps ease muscle tension all over—not just your feet!
  • After soaking or showering, follow up with a foot cream to help replenish moisture and maintain healthy skin. Slather your cream of choice over your feet, toss on a pair of thick socks, and hop into bed—incorporating overnight moisture into your bedtime routine is the perfect hydration pick-me-up for feet that need a little extra TLC.
  • Treat yourself to something extra special with a device like the Homedics foot massagerwhich can help relax tired muscles and support post-activity recovery. Your future self will thank you!

Two people standing barefoot on a green background, with feet positioned close together.

Foot Care for Diabetes and Circulation Needs

People living with diabetes may be more prone to concerns with their lower extremities, including the feet, so regular, attentive foot care is especially important. Many of these habits are simple steps you may already be practicing or can easily add to your routine.

Focus on Moisture and Skin Protection

Dry skin and irritation can make feet more vulnerable to cracks or minor discomfort, so keeping feet moisturized is a great place to start.

  • Apply moisturizing creams regularly to help maintain healthy skin and prevent dryness. Choose gentle, non-irritating formulas designed for sensitive or compromised skin.
  • Pay extra attention to heels and pressure points, where dryness and cracking are most likely to occur.

Support Circulation and Reduce Swelling

Circulation concerns and swelling can sometimes affect the lower legs and feet, especially for people living with diabetes.

  • Compression socks can help improve circulation and reduce swelling in the feet and ankles.
  • Seamless or cushioned socks can help reduce friction and protect the skin from irritation inside shoes.

Perform Daily Checks for Small Changes

Regular at-home foot checks can help catch small concerns before they become larger issues.

  • Inspect feet daily for cuts, sores, redness, or swelling. Incorporating this into your morning or nighttime routine makes it easy to remember.
  • Look between toes and around the heels, where irritation may go unnoticed.
  • Address minor concerns early and speak with a pharmacist or healthcare provider if you notice changes in your feet.

LD Tip: Support Foot Wellness with Expert Guidance

London Drugs pharmacists can offer guidance on diabetic foot care routines and help identify when it may be appropriate to seek additional care. You can also get a consultation for compression sock fittings.

Diabetes Canada recommends contacting your doctor or foot-care specialist (podiatrist, chiropodist, experienced footcare nurse) immediately for treatment of any concerns involving your feet or legs. Examples include athlete’s foot, toenail fungus, in-grown toenails, corns, calluses, warts, slivers, blisters, cuts, cracks, swelling, warmth, redness, or pain. Do not try to treat these conditions yourself. If left untreated or incorrectly, they can lead to serious complications such as infections, ulcers, or amputation. Also have your feet examined by a doctor at least once per year. For more information visit Diabetes Canada – Foot Care.

For general foot care recommendations, organizations such as the Canadian Podiatric Medical Association provide helpful guidance on maintaining healthy feet.

Build Your At-Home Pedicure Routine

Self-care is an essential part of many wellness routines, and foot care deserves just as much attention as skincare. A spa-worthy pedicure doesn’t need to be a rare luxury—you can build an at-home routine that ranges from simple to indulgent with a few easy steps.

1. Cleanse

Start with a soothing soak to relax your feet and soften the skin.

  • Choose uplifting bath and body products, such as bubble bath or bath bombs, in citrus or mint scents to refresh tired feet.
  • Opt for calming options such as lavender or eucalyptus for a relaxing soak.
  • Add Epsom salts to help reduce odour and ease minor aches.
  • Soak for 10 to 15 minutes to soften rough skin, then exfoliate.

2. Exfoliate

Dead skin can make skin feel rough and dry—foot scrubs help slough off buildup, smooth rough patches, and improve overall skin texture.

  • Gentle exfoliants, such as sugar or salt scrubs, are an ideal choice for regular use.
  • For deeper exfoliation and heel repair, try foot peels from Profoot or Baby Foot to remove dry skin and improve texture over time.

3. Moisturize

Proper moisturization is essential for helping maintain soft skin and preventing dryness from returning.

  • Target problem areas like pressure points. Common pressure points include the middle of the ball of your foot, the middle of your arch, and your heels.
  • Use products like Gold Bond Healing Foot Cream for cracked heels.
  • For deeper hydration, apply foot masks like the Freeman Flirty Feet Maskor use an overnight foot balm, once or twice a week. These can be especially great if you’ve just done a foot peel.

4. Maintenance

Trimmed nails and smooth heels help stretch the results of your routine into the week ahead.

  • Trim nails straight across to help prevent ingrown nails. Brands like Sally Hansen offer a bounty of nail care products to keep your hands and feet looking and feeling good.
  • Smooth rough heels with electronic pedicure tools like the Amopé Pedi Perfect Foot File. These devices can help smooth rough heels quickly and safely.

LD Tip: Check Out LDExtras for Foot Support and More

Regular foot care doesn’t just improve appearance—it also helps you notice changes in your foot health early. Check your LDExtras account for seasonal offers on foot care essentials and collect points on select products this spring.

Shop Foot Care Products at London Drugs

As winter comes to a close, it’s time to focus on repairing the damage from winter dryness as you get your feet sandal-ready. Build a new routine or refresh your existing regimen with new tips and products that’ll have you warm-weather ready in no time. Shop foot care products at London Drugs to find products that support your spring foot care routine.

Infographic outlining foot care steps including exfoliating, hydrating, sealing moisture, preventive care, and active comfort, with recommended products available at London Drugs.

If you’re experiencing mild discomfort or have questions about choosing the right products, London Drugs pharmacists can offer guidance on foot health and minor ailments this spring.

Divorced Sistas April 15: New Episodes and Season 1 Part 1 Recap

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Divorced Sistas April 15: New Episodes and Season 1 Part 1 Recap

Grab your wine glasses and dim the lights because our favorite Wednesday night addiction is officially making a comeback! We have been waiting on pins and needles, and now it is confirmed: Divorced Sistas April 15 is the date Tyler Perry is dropping the explosive second half of season one. The show is moving house too, so make sure your Paramount+ subscription is active because that is where all the new drama will be living. With eight brand new episodes locked and loaded, we are starting with a double-episode premiere that is guaranteed to have the group chat going absolutely nuclear.

Photo Credit: BET Network

A Quick Refresher on the Chaos

Before we dive into the newness, we definitely need a mini-recap of where we left our favorite circle of friends. We have watched Rasheda, Geneva, Naomi, Tiffany, and Bridgette navigate the absolute trenches of heartbreak, messy divorces, and the complicated world of dating after “I do.” Naomi has been the real firecracker of the group, balancing her “appetite for danger” with a strategic mind that usually gets her into—and out of—trouble. The tension within the circle has been just as thick as the drama with their exes, and if the mid-season finale was any indication, some of those friendships are hanging by a very thin, very expensive thread.

3 Terence Davis Right As Myron In Divorced Sistas E1759006487697 2a2b2c
Photo Credit: BET Network
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Photo Credit: BET Network

What to Expect in Part 2

This next chapter is promising to escalate the stakes even higher as long-simmering tensions finally erupt. We are going to see Naomi continue to navigate her impulsiveness while her girls struggle to decide if they should sympathize with her or just stay out of the blast zone. As the Divorced Sistas rollout continues weekly through the May 27 finale, we are expecting some major fractures and hopefully some much-needed healing. One thing is for sure: with Tyler Perry at the helm, the twists are going to be wild, the outfits will be immaculate, and we will be seated every single Wednesday for the fallout!

Ode to a revitalising scarf

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Ode to a revitalising scarf

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