My friend said that dialing into this approach allowed her to view friendship as ever-evolving, rather than fixed or rigid. I used to see friendship as an all-in or all-out affair; you were either a ride-or-die friend who had to give me everything, or you were nothing to me. The friendship shelf theory has helped me to understand that’s not a realistic—or healthy—way of looking at friends. You can have all types of successful friendships, you just have to adjust your expectations and what you’re willing to give in return based on individual relationships.
Other perks of the friendship shelf theory
Another benefit is that you stop overlooking toxicity and bad behavior, health and wellness coach Meghan Mitchell, M.Div, NBC-HWC, lead course instructor, Headspace Training Institute coach manager, tells SELF: “It becomes easier to recognize when a relationship constantly drains you, crosses boundaries, or leaves you feeling diminished.”
Critics may argue this tool could lead to a tendency to shut people off too quickly. It may, however, result in the opposite. For some, this mentality “offers a gentle structure for understanding relational dynamics without needing dramatic cutoffs or confrontations,” explains Mitchell. I have never believed friendships are disposable or interchangeable. In fact, sometimes I’ve held on too tightly and fought too hard when I shouldn’t have. This theory allows me to view my friendships through a healthier lens where I can step back and, when needed, let go. This frees me up to prioritize both myself and the friends who are reciprocal in their time, effort, and energy.
It’s therefore key to implement the friendship shelf theory in the right way. “This works best when it’s used as a self-awareness tool, not a value judgment,” says Mitchell. “It isn’t about ranking people by importance or worth. It’s about recognizing that different relationships carry different emotional and energetic realities. Used gently, this framework helps you align your expectations with what each relationship can realistically offer. That alignment actually creates more compassion because you stop expecting people to show up in ways they’re not able to, and you stop overextending yourself in return.”
Now formulators can create quat-free hair care and skin care products.
PHILADELPHIA (February 10, 2026) – There’s a better way to condition hair and moisturize skin. ProCondition 22 (INCI: Brassicamidopropyl Dimethylamine) from Inolex is a replacement for quaternary ammonium compounds (“quats”) such as Behentrimonium Chloride (BTAC), Cetrimonium Chloride (CTAC) and Stearamidopropyl Dimethylamine (SAPDMA). ProCondition 22 enables formulators to create quat-free products for skin and hair.
Readily biodegradable and non-irritating to skin and eyes, ProCondition 22 creates lamellar gel networks for conditioning, emulsification, and skin moisturization. It provides multibenefit technology with a non-permanent cationic charge. Lamellar liquid crystals create flexible, protective layers that mimic the natural lamellar structure of skin and hair. These crystals provide a soft, powdery, non-greasy feel on skin and hair. In hair care formulas, they also provide weightless conditioning.
ProCondition 22 restores damaged hair by smoothing lifted cuticles on hair fibers. The hair shaft is sealed and friction between hair strands is reduced. Smooth, unbroken cuticles improve hair appearance and feel. In tests on Chinese hair, European brown hair and multiethnic curly (3A) hair, ProCondition 22 has comparable wet combability to BTAC in a natural conditioning formula. It provides frizz control and gives hair a smooth and overall healthy appearance.
Recommended use levels include shampoos (0.5%), rinse-off conditioners (1.0–5.0%) and leave-on products (0.5–3.0%).
In skin care formulas, ProCondition 22 provides immediate moisture replenishment at 15 minutes and clinically proven moisturization that lasts 24 hours. Recommended use levels in skin care emulsions range from 0.2–5.0%, and 0.5% in cleansers and body washes.
ProCondition 22 is 83% USDA Certified Biobased Content, non-palm derived, with a Natural Origin Index of 0.80. It is readily biodegradable, Halal certified, Kosher compliant, vegan and cruelty-free, and China IECIC listed.
BTAC, CTAC and SAPDMA are under pressure because they can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. They may be harmful to aquatic life and contribute to water pollution. All three have the potential for buildup on hair and skin, leading to dullness or residue. In formulations, these materials can destabilize certain cosmetic formulations, affecting product efficacy.
About Inolex
Inolex, Philadelphia, is a fiercely independent, innovation-driven ingredient design firm serving the health, beauty and wellness industries. Inolex designs and manufactures ingredients that deliver safety, sustainability and exceptional performance. www.inolex.com
A foundation stick is the quickest way to even tone and add targeted coverage—especially when you want a fresh, skin-like glow. This step-by-step foundation stick tutorial tells you exactly how to apply, blend, and build coverage without streaks or cakiness. We’ll use bareMinerals Complexion Rescue Luminous Skin Tint Stick as our skin-first, mineral-powered base for a luminous, barely-there finish. You’ll learn smart skin prep, how to warm and blend a stick foundation seamlessly, and which tool—brush or fingers—delivers your preferred result. Follow along for a flawless, believable base in minutes.
@bareminerals Meet the new Complexion Rescue Luminous Skin Tint Stick. A weightless skin tint stick that boosts barrier strength, hydrates, and leaves an undeniable glow. Discover your shade and shop now exclusively at @QVC, Inc! Available 1.26 @Ulta Beauty, @Macy’s ♬ original sound – bareMinerals
Prepare Your Skin for Foundation Stick Application
Smooth, hydrated skin is the secret to even glide and long wear. Start by cleansing and toning, then apply moisturizer and let it sink in for 5–10 minutes. This gives hydration time to absorb so your skin tint doesn’t cling to dry patches. Next, apply primer based on skin type: choose a hydrating primer for dry skin to boost slip or a mattifying primer for oily skin to temper shine and extend wear, a technique makeup pros consistently recommend for smoother, more even application.
Pro tip: Light, regular exfoliation keeps texture smooth, allowing cream sticks to blend effortlessly.
Choose the Right Shade and Formula for Your Skin
For the most natural match, swatch bareMinerals Complexion Rescue Luminous Skin Tint Stick along your jawline and slightly onto your neck, then check in daylight. Undertones are the subtle hues beneath the surface of your skin: warm (gold/peach), cool (pink/rose), or neutral (a balance of both). Match the depth of your skin first, then fine-tune undertone so it disappears into your neck.
Oily or acne-prone skin: look for oil-controlling, mineral-powered options with a natural finish.
Dry or mature skin: hydrating skin tints and radiant finishes enhance luminosity and minimize the look of texture.
Quick guide: foundation formats at a glance
Feature
Stick Foundation
Liquid Foundation
Powder Foundation
Coverage/Finish
Buildable, precise; natural to luminous
Sheer to full; varies by formula
medium to full; natural matte
Best For
On-the-go, targeted coverage, contour
All skin types; blendable options
Normal to oily; quick oil control
Convenience
Swipe, blend, done
Requires tool/time
Fast; minimal tools
For a deeper dive, see our clean-beauty guide to formats and finishes (foundation types explained) (foundation stick vs liquid vs powder).
Warm Up Your Foundation Stick Before Applying
If your stick feels firm—especially in cooler climates—soften it first. Gently swipe the bullet on the back of your hand to warm it; the slight heat helps the formula melt into skin, preventing drag and patchiness. Warming simply means using body heat to make the texture more pliable so you can blend the foundation stick seamlessly.
Select the Best Tool: Brush, Sponge, or Fingers
The tool you choose shapes the finish as much as the formula.
Tool
Why you’ll love it
Best for
Dense synthetic brush
Buffs to an airbrushed look; builds coverage gradually; synthetic bristles don’t over-absorb creams
Light, buildable coverage; polished finish
Clean fingers
Speedy, intuitive blending; body heat melts the formula for the sheerest application
Sheer, natural fresh skin; quick on-the-go
Makeup educators note that synthetic brushes excel with cream/mineral textures; fingertip warmth also helps creams melt for a natural blend.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1: Apply Foundation in Controlled Amounts
Less is more. Draw short lines on the center of your forehead, cheeks, nose, and chin. Start with a sheer layer; you can always build where needed. Over-applying is the fastest route to cakey texture.
Step 2: Blend with Fingers or a Brush
Use gentle sweeping motions with your brush or fingertips to blend the product seamlessly into the skin. Work in small sections, blending immediately after application to ensure an even, natural-looking finish and prevent the product from settling unevenly.
Step 3: Build Coverage Gradually Where Needed
Once your first layer is blended, add a touch more only on areas that need it—blemishes, redness, or discoloration—then blend to fuse seamlessly. Reach for concealer sparingly instead of layering foundation everywhere.
Step 4: Extend Application to Jawline, Neck, and Hairline
For a professional, undetectable finish, soften edges down the jawline and onto the neck, and lightly diffuse into the hairline so there are no visible lines. Always check your results in natural daylight to confirm the match.
Tips to Prevent Streakiness and Cakiness
Work in thin, even layers; pause a few seconds between passes so product can settle before adding more.
Blend immediately with a brush or fingertips to avoid streaks and lift marks.
Set only where you need it (usually the T-zone) with a light dusting of translucent powder; lock everything in with a fine mist of setting spray for longevity.
Keep tools clean. Residue on brushes can cause streaks and buildup.
How to Achieve a Seamless, Natural Finish
To blend the foundation stick seamlessly, blend the product into the skin. Clean fingertips can add that final touch of warmth to melt edges for a skin-tint glow. Well-prepped, moisturized skin makes blending noticeably easier and more even, as pro artists consistently emphasize.
Setting Your Foundation Stick for Longevity
Focus on targeted setting to keep the finish fresh. Using a soft, fluffy brush, lightly dust translucent mineral powder on oil-prone areas like the T-zone to absorb shine and lock your base. Setting powder is a featherweight, transparent powder that grips makeup and reduces transfer. Finish with a setting spray to help your skin tint withstand weather and activity without dulling its glow.
Versatility of Foundation Stick: Concealer, Contour, and Highlight
Maximize your stick for a minimalist routine:
Concealer: Tap a small amount of on redness or under eyes, then stipple to blend.
Contour: Use a shade 1–2 tones deeper under cheekbones, along the jawline, and sides of the nose; blend until shadow looks natural.
Highlight: Use a shade 1 tone lighter on the center of the forehead, bridge of the nose, tops of cheekbones, and Cupid’s bow.
Blend contour and highlight with the same tool you used for foundation to keep transitions soft and seamless.
Ready to try it? Meet your on-the-go glow: the mineral-powered, hydrating Complexion Rescue Luminous Skin Tint Stick.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I prep my skin before applying foundation stick?
Cleanse, moisturize, and apply a primer suited to your skin type—hydrating for dry skin or mattifying for oily—then wait a few minutes so everything sets before makeup.
What is the best way to avoid streaks when using a foundation stick?
Apply thin layers and blend immediately with fingerstips or the Smoothing Face Brush in a sweeping motion.
Which blending tool is most effective for foundation sticks?
A dense synthetic brush builds fuller coverage. Fingers are great for quick, natural-looking touch-ups.
How can I prevent my foundation stick from looking cakey?
Use minimal product, build only where needed, press to blend, and set just the T-zone with a light veil of translucent powder.
How should foundation stick application differ by skin type?
Dry skin benefits from extra hydration and minimal powder; oily skin wears best over a mattifying primer with targeted setting; combination skin can concentrate coverage in the center of the face and customize from there.
The 2026 Super Bowl halftime show just gave us the crossover event we didn’t know we needed but definitely deserved. Bad Bunny transformed the stadium into a massive Puerto Rican street party, and he didn’t come alone. While the world was busy guessing who would join him on stage, the “I Like It” queen herself, Cardi Bmade a surprise appearance that had everyone on their feet.
Instead of just a standard guest verse, Cardi B was spotted bringing that signature New York energy to the stage during the “La Casita” segment of the show. Dressed in a stunning tiered Zimmermann set, she looked like she was having the time of her life dancing alongside Karol G outside the famous pink house. It was a beautiful full circle moment for fans who have loved their chemistry since their 2018 hit collaboration.
A Star Studded Celebration
But the party didn’t stop with Bardi. The stage was absolutely packed with icons, making it one of the most celebrity heavy halftime shows in history. We saw:
Lady Gaga delivering a soulful salsa rendition of her hit song Die With a Smile.
Ricky Martin bringing that legendary energy with a verse from LO QUE LE PASÓ A HAWAii.
Pedro Pascal and Jessica Alba showing off their moves and representing for the culture.
Young Miko and Karol G adding even more star power to the reggaeton beats.
Bad Bunny has always been a force when it comes to honoring his roots, and this performance was no different. He turned the biggest stage in the world into a space for unity and love. By including Cardi B and so many other Latinx icons, he showed that the music is about more than just the charts; it is about community.
Whether she was boogieing by the casita or just soaking in the vibes, Cardi B reminded us that she is exactly who she thinks she is: a superstar who always shows up for her friends and her culture. This was easily one of the most fun and relatable moments of the entire night, and we will be rewatching those dance clips for weeks!
I’m always drawn to skincare brands that understand one simple truth: luxury doesn’t have to be complicated. When I tested Skön, I wasn’t looking for another multi‑step routine or a shelf full of products. Instead, I wanted glow, comfort, and results — without the overwhelm.
In this review, I’ll walk you through my honest experience with the Skön trio — the Hyaluronic Acid Facial Cleanser, the Collagen Marine Moisturizing Cream , and the 24K GOLDEN EYE PATCH — and explain why this brand feels like effortless luxury made for real women.
What Makes Skön Different?
The biggest thing that sets Skön apart is its philosophy. This is a brand built around the idea that women should have the tools they need to care for themselves, feel confident in their own skin, and embrace their inner strength. Skön also focuses on fewer, well‑formulated products that give immediate satisfaction and visible comfort.
Luxury, here, isn’t about excess. Rather, it’s about how the products make you feel — confident, relaxed, and taken care of. Moreover, Skön positions itself as accessible luxury, meaning every woman can experience that spa‑like feeling without complicated routines or intimidating formulas.
The trio instantly gave me that sense of refinement and simplicity. As a result, my skincare routine felt lighter, more intentional, and far more enjoyable.
Brand Philosophy: Luxury for Every Woman
Skön’s message is clear: beauty should be accessible to everyone. The brand focuses on natural, non‑irritating ingredients while still delivering a premium experience. In contrast to many natural skincare brands that sacrifice texture or scent, Skön manages to feel indulgent without being overwhelming.
Additionally, the brand emphasizes comfort and ease. You’re not meant to layer endlessly or wait forever between steps. Instead, you cleanse, moisturize, and enjoy the process — simple, effective, and satisfying.
My Skin Type & Overall Experience
I have combination skin, which means products need to balance hydration without causing oiliness or congestion. Thankfully, the Skön trio worked beautifully for my skin type. However, based on texture and performance, I truly believe these products can suit all skin types.
From the very first use, the experience felt cohesive. Each product flowed naturally into the next, and together they created a routine that felt both calming and results‑driven.
Beautiful Hyaluronic Acid Facial Cleanser Review
The Beautiful Hyaluronic Acid Facial Cleanser was a pleasant surprise. The texture is creamy, rich, and comforting, yet it lathers quite well once water is added. Unlike many creamy cleansers, it rinses off easily and doesn’t leave any residue behind.
After cleansing, my skin felt soft, clean, and hydrated — not tight, dry, or stripped. This is especially impressive, as many cleansers that clean effectively tend to compromise hydration. Moreover, my skin felt calm, which tells me the formula is gentle and well‑balanced.
Packaging‑wise, the tube is practical and easy to use. It dispenses just the right amount of product, making it hygienic and travel‑friendly.
At first touch, the Skön moisturizer feels thick and rich in the jar. However, once applied to the skin, it transforms beautifully. It glides effortlessly, spreads evenly, and absorbs quickly without leaving any greasy or sticky feeling behind.
Despite its richness, my skin never looked oily or shiny. Instead, it appeared smooth, well‑hydrated, and balanced. Additionally, there was no strange or overpowering scent — something that can often be an issue with natural moisturizers.
My only note here is packaging. While the formula itself is excellent, I would love to see this moisturizer in an air‑tight pump. This would improve hygiene and help preserve the integrity of the ingredients over time.
What stood out:
*Rich yet fast‑absorbing texture
*No oiliness, stickiness, or shine
*Leaves skin smooth and hydrated
*No unpleasant natural scent
Skön 24K GOLDEN EYE PATCH Review: The Star Product
If there’s one product that truly defines the Skön experience, it’s the Skön’s eye patches. This is where skincare turns into a ritual.
Using them feels like stepping into a mini spa moment — imagine soft music, a scented candle, and a few quiet minutes just for yourself. Instantly, the routine feels elevated, indulgent, and deeply relaxing.
Beyond the experience, the results are immediate. My under‑eye area looked refreshed, energized, and well‑rested. Consequently, my entire face appeared more awake and ready for the day.
These eye patches don’t just treat the skin — they transform your mood. For me, they became the moment I look forward to the most.
Why they’re the hero:
*Immediate visible refresh
*Spa‑like, luxurious experience
*Makes skincare feel special
*Helps me feel relaxed and energized
Final Verdict: Is Skön Worth It?
Skön is for women who crave luxury without complexity. If you’re tired of long routines, endless steps, and products that promise everything but deliver little, this brand offers a refreshing alternative.
You get effective cleansing, deep hydration, and a self‑care moment — all without overthinking your routine. Moreover, the immediate results and sensory experience make skincare feel joyful again.
If you want glow without the 12‑step routine, Skön is absolutely worth trying.
Who I Recommend Skön For
Women who want simple yet luxurious skincare
Anyone overwhelmed by long routines
All skin types, including combination skin
Those who value immediate comfort and visible results
Anyone who wants skincare to feel like self‑care
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Skön suitable for sensitive skin?
Yes. The formulas feel gentle and non‑irritating, making them suitable for sensitive skin.
Does the moisturizer work for oily or combination skin?
Absolutely. Despite its rich texture, it absorbs quickly and doesn’t leave skin oily or shiny.
Are the eye patches worth it?
Yes. They deliver immediate results and elevate your entire routine into a spa‑like experience.
This review reflects my personal experience and honest opinion after testing the Skön skincare products.
Do you ever smell desserts you want to bottle up and spritz on the daily? Same—and luckily for us, the best gourmand perfumes last a lot longer than our favorite confections. What’s in store? We’re talking dashes of vanilla balanced with dark rum, coffee accords blended with frothy milk, and even peony that contrasts praline. In other words, our favorite gourmand perfumes offer a nuanced take on the hyper-sweet scents we were obsessed with growing up.
As with every olfactory family, no two gourmands are the same. Even perfumes that are centered around vanilla don’t necessarily use the same type of vanilla (or the same amount!), so one could smell like a Middle School fever dream, while the other evokes a good mouth in bed at The Ritz. To each their own sweet treat.
Our Top Gourmand Perfumes
We’ve tested hundreds of gourmand perfumes that carry scrumptious notes and ingredient combinations, but only a handful are mainstay-worthy. So, if you’re in the market for a scent that’s mouthwateringly delish, keep scrolling.
Best Creamy: Dedcool Mochi Milk Eau de Parfum
Dedcool
Mochi Milk Eau de Parfum
Why we love it: Building on the virality of Dedcool’s original, skin-like Milk Eau de Parfum, Mochi Milk (a 2025 Allure Best of Beauty Award winner) reimagines gourmand—that is to say, it’s not the type of overwhelmingly sweet gourmand that smacks you in the face. Airy marshmallow and sweetened rice milk give it a whipped, cloud-like softness, while a flash of peach nectar adds brightness without tipping into syrupy territory. Grounded by the franchise’s subtly warm, musky base, Mochi Milk reads less sugar rush and more slow indulgence—softly sweet, nuanced, and irresistibly wearable.
“I’ve always said I’m not a fan of gourmand fragrances because they’re much too sugary and cloying for my taste. But I am a fan of Dedcool, and its latest scent has made a liar out of me. Mochi Milk Fragrance is a very mature take on the classically sweet scent family—and now, one of my new favorite perfumes.” —Sarah Kinonen, beauty director
Notes: marshmallow, vanilla bean, sweet rice milk
Available sizes: 0.5 oz, 1.7 oz
Best Juicy: Brown Girl Jane Carousel Eau de Parfum
Brown Girl Jane
Carousel Eau de Parfum
Why we love it: Brown Girl Jane’s Carousel opens with the snap of caramelized apple, glossed with sugar and brightened by sour blackcurrant. The sweetness feels deliberate rather than overly heavy, folding into a floral heart of lily of the valley, coral rose, and orange blossom. As it settles, creamy sandalwood, warm amber, and a whisper of cherry leather melt into cloud-like musk. The result is a fragrance that feels decadent but elegant, like silk threaded with spice.
Welcome to your go-to guide to the 2026 Winter Olympics. We’re tracking everything—from real-life heated rivalries (yes, they exist) to under-the-radar sports and surprise standouts—so you can catch up on all of our coverage in one place.
American snowboarding phenom Chloe Kim is one of the top athletes to watch in the 2026 Winter Games, which kicked off last week in northern Italy. On Wednesday, when Kim competes in the women’s halfpipe—the event she won gold in at the last two Olympic Winter Games—her trip down the mountain this time around will be a little different. Kim will be wearing a shoulder brace after dislocating the joint during training last month.
“I hate that I have to make this video, but I just felt that it was necessary,” Kim said in an Instagram video on January 8, announcing the injury. She explained that while training in Switzerland, she “took the silliest fall,” which caused her shoulder to dislocate (meaning, the top of the upper arm bone popped out of the shoulder socket). Five days later, Kim posted an update on Instagram, sharing in a new video that she got an MRI. The results, she said, revealed that she tore her labrum, the cartilage that lines the socket of the shoulder joint.
Because of the injury, Kim said she would have to take a break from snowboarding. But, she added, she “will be good to go for the Olympics.” Her first event will be the qualifying round of the women’s halfpipe on February 11. The halfpipe final is February 12.
To better understand Kim’s injury—and how it might impact her upcoming performance—we tapped Kevin Stone, MD, an orthopedic surgeon and a former physician for the US Ski Team.
So what exactly happened to Kim’s shoulder?
When Kim fell, she landed on her face with her arms up over her head. (Scope footage of the fall here, about 20 seconds into the video.)
That impact drove the ball of the humerus (upper arm bone) out of the shoulder socket. In other words, her shoulder dislocated. And that dislocation tore the labrum, which is the tissue that surrounds the socket and attaches it to the bone. This type of injury, Dr. Stone tells SELF, is “very common.”
Most often, people tear their labrums when the humerus fully or partially comes out of the socket. But this injury can also happen from general wear and tear as a person ages.
How are torn labrums usually diagnosed and treated?
The labrum helps keep the humerus in place, so when people dislocate their shoulder, they automatically tear or damage the labrum too, Dr. Stone says. Shoulder dislocation is diagnosed by taking a patient’s history and doing a physical exam, Dr. Stone says—but usually it’s pretty obvious just by looking at it.
How are Korean sunscreens different from Western sunscreens?
One of the key differences between Western sunscreens and Korean sunscreens is their role in our perception of skin care, as Zion Ko Lamm, MD, a board-certified internal medicine doctor based in Charlotte, North Carolina, points out. Korean sunscreens are part of a skin-care lifestyle, defending against a broader range of long-term effects of the sun and promoting general skin health. On the other hand, Western sunscreens are formulated with necessity in mind, beginning and ending with sun protection.
Another difference is that no matter how much zinc oxide they contain, Korean mineral sunscreens are transparent on all skin tones, free of the telltale white cast that we often experience with non-Korean sunscreens. Plus, both chemical and mineral Korean sunscreens feature ingredients found in your favorite serums and moisturizers, like Gotu kolaallantoin, ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide. So when you apply Korean sunscreen to your face, you protect your skin from UVA and UVB rays and work in a layer of hydrating, brightening, and smoothing benefits.
Are Korean sunscreens better than Western sunscreens?
Depends on who you ask, but many would say yes. Why? “It’s not that South Korea has something specifically unique that allows them to create better sunscreens,” Toronto-based cosmetic chemist Stephen Ko previously told Allure. “They just have access to more sunscreen ingredients to work with.”
Because the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) classifies sunscreen as a drug, its chemicals and components must undergo lengthy, formal drug approval processes, which results in limitations to the ingredients in Western formulas. In fact, “there hasn’t been a new [chemical or mineral] approved for use in sunscreens in the U.S. since 1999,” says Ko. This also allows Korean brands to incorporate SPF and skin care innovations into their formulas more swiftly, allowing for more state-of-the-art, sophisticated formulations (active ingredients include Tinosorb S, Uvinul A Plus, and Uvinul T 150).
In short, the U.S. is “terribly behind the rest of the world in approving sunscreens that are superior to those we have,” Vivian Bucay, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in San Antonio, Texas, previously told Allure. Even Congresswoman Alexandra Ocasio-Cortez agrees. If you’re passionate about sunscreens like we are, she encourages people to contact their congressperson (especially if they sit on the Energy and Commerce Committee) and call upon them to “break through some of the regulatory barriers at the FDA” and “fund public research so that we can all enjoy the filters that develop out of the scientific process.”
How should I choose a Korean sunscreen?
A lot of this depends on your personal preferences, just like any sunscreen produced in the US, Europe, Asia, etc. But if you look at Korean sunscreen packaging, you’ll notice “PA” next to the SPF grades. While SPF measures the degree of UVB light protection, PA (Protection Grade of UVA) is all about UVA light and your protection from developing pigmentation, says Dr. Ko Lamm. She equates PA+++ to SPF 30 and recommends seeking out sunscreens with a minimum of each. “PA is based on the PPD test or the persistent pigmentation darkening test. It measures the multiple increases of UVA a person can theoretically be exposed to without tanning or darkening of the skin,” Dr. Ko Lamm adds. “The PA system ranges from PA+ to PA++++; the maximum rating means it has a PPD value of 16.” This means that while wearing PA++++ sunscreen, your skin can withstand 16 times more UVA radiation than it would without the sunscreen. So, until you exceed that hypothetical 16x UVA level, you won’t start to tan or burn.
Meet the experts
Vivian Bucay, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based at the Bucay Center for Dermatology and Aesthetics based in San Antonio, Texas
Claire Chang, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City
Stephen Ko, a cosmetic chemist based in Toronto
Zion Ko Lamm, MD, a board-certified internal medicine doctor based in Charlotte, North Carolina
How we test and review products
When Allure tests a product, our editors look at it from every angle in an effort to best serve you. We review ingredients, scrutinize brand claims, and, when necessary, examine peer-reviewed scientific and medical studies. In addition to testing each and every product that’s included in each and every review, we rely on experts who shape their fields, including dermatology, cosmetic chemistry, and medicine, to help us vet the ingredients and formulas.
For our list of the best Korean sunscreens, we considered each product’s performance across five primary categories: product ingredients, efficacy, product wear, and benefits. Every product was determined to have excelled in each category by our editorial team, which is composed of in-house writers and editors as well as contributors—along with special consideration from dermatologists. To learn more information on our reporting and testing processes, read our complete reviews process and methodology page.
Our staff and testers
A beauty product is a personal purchase. You might be searching for a face cream to address persistent dryness or a new nail product to add to your Sunday self-care routine; you may simply be browsing around for the latest launches to hit the hair market. No matter what you seek or your individual needs and concerns, Allure wants to ensure that you love anything we recommend in our stories. We believe that having a diverse team of writers and editors—in addition to the wide range of outside testers and industry experts we regularly call upon—is essential to reaching that goal.
After all, can we really say a skin-care product is the “best” for people over 50 if the only testers we’ve solicited opinions from folks who have yet to hit 30? Can we honestly deem a high-end diffuser worthy of your hard-earned cash if it’s never been tested on curls? We’re proud that our staff spans a wide range of ages, skin tones, hair textures, genders, and backgrounds, which means that we are able to fairly assess any beauty product that comes into the beauty closet.
Silver hair, natural or not, is similar to blonde in that it needs more TLC than darker hair tones to look its brightest and shiniest. Whether you naturally have icy-white hair or sit in the salon chair to get the look, the best shampoos for gray hair are essential for creating a dullness-defying hair-care routine that your cool-toned hair color will benefit from.
One of the most common concerns about going gray is keeping brassiness at bay. “The goal is to keep that hair bright and sparkly and not brassy or yellowish,” says Los Angeles-based hair colorist Clariss Rubenstein. Usually, purple shampoos are used to neutralize any yellowness in cool-toned blondes and gray hair, but Rubenstein says finding a shampoo that not only neutralizes brassy tones but also nourishes hair and replenishes moisture is key to keeping gray strands in tip-top shape.
Yes, counteracting yellow tones to minimize brassiness is one concern for those with gray hair, but New York City-based board-certified dermatologist Joshua Zeichner, MD, previously told Allure that gray hair can also change and become thinner, coarser, and drier since your oil glands produce less sebum as you get older, leading to drier hair follicles. “It is unclear why, but the biological process that affects the color of the hair likely also affects the structure of the hair being produced as well,” he said.
Tips for maintaining gray hair
To keep your grays looking bright and silver, Rubenstein recommends having a purple shampoo and a regular shampoo catered to your hair concerns. “Do you need volume? Moisture? Choose the right fit of shampoo and conditioner, then choose a purple shampoo you like,” she says. There are tons of nutrient-rich purple shampoos on the market, but for a deeper treatment that checks multiple boxes off your strand care list, Rubenstein recommends mixing your usual shampoo and a purple shampoo every time you wash. “The ratio I like is three-fourths regular shampoo and one-fourth purple shampoo; then follow with conditioner,” she says. “About once a month, do a full shampoo with purple just to tone.”
As we all know, shampoo’s main purpose is to cleanse. To remove buildup without sacrificing tone, New York City-based hair colorist Clara Purvis suggests using a clarifying shampoo or apple cider vinegar treatment. “Grey hair tends to be more on the dry side, which happens generally as we age and our body starts to lose moisture she says. So, she recommends using hair products like moisture-replenishing conditioners to help offset dryness, brittle texture, and frizz. “Additionally, regular oil treatments and hair masks are great ways to increase moisture.”
Meet the experts
Julie Dickson, a stylist and founder of Joon Drop Salon based in New York City
Marla Haislip, a stylist at Thrive Beauty Bar based in Santee, California
Clara Purvis, a hair colorist and founder of Noordwyk Salon based in New York City
Clariss Rubenstein, a hair colorist based in Los Angeles
Valerie Vanessa, a stylist based in New York City and Los Angeles
Joshua Zeichner, MD, a board-certified dermatologist, Associate Professor of Dermatology, and the Director of Cosmetic & Clinical Research in Dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital based in New York City
How we test and review products
We always enlist a range of testers for any review, but hair-care products are another story. While some can be used across different hair textures, lengths, curl patterns, thicknesses, colors (natural and unnatural), and concerns, many are created with specific consumers and their needs in mind. We guarantee that these factors are considered when determining whether a hair-care product is worthy of a recommendation.
For our review of the best shampoos for gray hair, we enlisted the help of multiple editors, writers, contributors, and hairstylists we’ve interviewed for the piece—who all have different hair concerns and types, desired outcomes (i.e., want shinier hair), and whether one product was tested across multiple hair types. Testers considered performance across two primary categories: efficacy and value. For more on what’s involved in our reporting, check out our complete reviews process and methodology page.
Our staff and testers
A beauty product is a personal purchase. You might be searching for a face cream to address persistent dryness or a new nail product to add to your Sunday self-care routine; you may simply be browsing around for the latest launches to hit the hair market. No matter what you seek or your individual needs and concerns, Allure wants to ensure that you love anything we recommend in our stories. We believe that having a diverse team of writers and editors—in addition to the wide range of outside testers and industry experts we regularly call upon—is essential to reaching that goal.
After all, can we really say a skin-care product is the “best” for people over 50 if the only testers we’ve solicited opinions from folks who have yet to hit 30? Can we honestly deem a high-end diffuser worthy of your hard-earned cash if it’s never been tested on curls? We’re proud that our staff spans a wide range of ages, skin tones, hair textures, genders, and backgrounds, which means that we are able to fairly assess any beauty product that comes into the beauty closet.
In an era dominated by remakes, sequels and multiverses, seeing a totally original story unravel on screen feels like a truly special occasion. Enter: 100 Nights of Heroan exuberant historical fantasy written and directed by Julia Jackman. The film is based on a 2016 graphic novel by Isabel Greenberg, and tells a poetic tale of love, lust, friendship and trust. In it, Cherry (Maika Monroe) is left by her husband for 100 nights, in a test of their relationship with ulterior motives. During this time, she has duelling relationships, one with her maid Hero (Emma Corrin) and another with her husband’s old friend and charming rival Manfred (Nicholas Galitzine).
Without spoiling its twists, the indie British film is both illustrative and abstract in how it moves the needle on classic love-triangle plots, while also speaking to the power of storytelling and female connections. The movie is incredibly funny and moving, supported by bold performances from the wider cast, including Richard E. Grant, Felicity Jones and everyone’s favourite brat Charli xcx. The film’s costumes are another standout piece of the puzzle that makes 100 Nights of Hero so special. They were designed by Susie Coulthard, who also happens to be the mind behind the wardrobe on one of Black Mirror’s standout episodes, the Emmy-winning San Junipero. In a way, her approach to this film reflects the essence of San Junipero that connected to so many people – ambitious and rooted in history, but finally unplaceable in a specific time period.
Courtesy of Vue Lumière
‘As soon as I read the script, I knew exactly how it should look. I did my boards and was just hoping that the director would respond,’ Coulthard tells me in her studio, which also doubles as a film and TV costume hire named CLTHD London. ‘Luckily, they instantly recognised what I wanted to do. A lot of my references were fashion ones, rather than medieval. And for that kind of world-building moment, you have to make things from scratch because otherwise it just ends up looking like something else.’
For the film’s wardrobe, Coulthard worked with the community of London tailors on creating pieces that have a duality about them. There’s that constant interplay of contemporary interpretations of historic references that is true to the cyclical nature of fashion. One of the key looks is a black dress worn by Emma Corrin’s character, Hero. An editorial take on a maid’s uniform, the dress was inspired by a silhouette from Rei Kawakubo, an iconic Japanese designer who constantly goes against the grain of nostalgia. Yet the piece feels perfectly in place in a historic setting. This was also supported by the production design, as some of the sets included recognisable, non-accurate pieces such as tall Mackintosh chairs dated to the early 20th century.
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