Category: Conscious Beauty

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Conscious Beauty Lifestyle

Move Over AHA And BHA: PHA Is The New Acid Everyone's Talking About

If you’re a self-proclaimed skincare enthusiast, chances are you’re familiar with chemical exfoliation. Depending on your routine, this may look like a nightly cocktail of serums, twice-weekly masks, or even regular chemical peels from your fave esthetician.
Most of these chemical exfoliants use alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs) as their main ingredients, depending on what they’re targeting. If you’re at all familiar with chemical exfoliants, those should be pretty familiar to you, but now there’s a new one trending: polyhydroxy acid.

Polyhydroxy what?

Polyhydroxy acids (PHAs) are the youngest generation of acids, and oh are they powerful.
AHAs and BHAs are key ingredients in many chemical exfoliants and they’re known for their ability to strength the skin’s barrier, fight signs of aging, and provide supple hydration. AHAs, like glycolic acid, stimulate collagen production, meaning they’re great at reducing fine lines; BHAs, like salicylic acid, can penetrate pores deeply.
Studies have found that PHAs offer similar effects as both these well-known acids, but with notably fewer severe irritation responses for individuals with sensitive or dry skin.
The effects of PHAs are as comprehensive as they are plentiful. These acids:

  • Exfoliate the skin, which is crucial for removing layers of dead skin and revealing healthy new cells
  • Increase moisture retention, which can decrease signs of aging and improve the appearance of potentially worn-looking or dull skin
  • Contain antioxidants, which fight free radicals and can increase the effectiveness of sunscreen, further protecting the skin from UV exposure
  • Improve the skin’s natural barrier systems, which protects against harmful substances
  • Reduce inflammatory flares caused by dermatological conditions such as those listed above as well as acne, psoriasis, and melasma.
  • Enhance overall clarity, brightness, smoothness, and elasticity

Who should use PHAs?

While PHAs can be advantageous for every skin type, if your skin tends be hypersensitive when using products or performing peels with AHA or BHA, you’d likely benefit greatly from incorporating PHAs into your skincare routine.
The multiple hydroxyl groups in PHAs contain larger molecules than those in their sister acids, which slows down their absorption rate, meaning they cause less topical irritation. So if you have sensitive skin that can get irritated from too much AHA or BHA use, PHAs might be the acid you’ve been looking for. This means that even individuals with conditions like atopic dermatitis or rosacea don’t need to miss out on acids’ age-defying benefits any longer.
Notice any stinging or redness with AHAs or BHAs? It just might be time to make a switch!
We also want to note that the studies on PHAs’ effects have been replicated for black, Caucasian, Hispanic, and Asian skin, which supports their widespread application and effectiveness.

How should I use PHAs?

As a good rule of thumb, begin your new protocol by applying PHA-containing products once per day or even once every other day. After taking note of how your skin responds, you can increase the frequency to twice a day. This type of progressive onboarding will need to be done for every product you plan on introducing! If you notice any itching, burning, or swelling, stop!
No matter where you are in your skincare journey, make sure you’re using an adequate moisturizer morning and night in addition to sunscreen with at least SPF 25 every single morning. Though PHAs have been shown to not increase sun sensitivity and potential burning like AHAs and BHAs, it’s still a good habit to practice.

Our Current PHA Faves

So, we’re all clear that PHAs should be in our daily arsenals, but which products should you pick up? Easy! Because PHAs have so many benefits, you can can find them in cleansers, creams, lotions, and serums. Whatever your skin may be needing most, there’s sure to be a product that’s perfect for you.
Looking for a cleanser? The Age Reverse Bioactiv Wash from Exuviance combines PHAs, maltobionic acid (derived naturally from maltose sugar), and botanical extracts to remove makeup, resurface your skin, and prep your canvas for the next step in your routine.
Skincare giant Glossier has jumped in the PHA game with the star of their 2018 show, Solution. Use it after cleansing to exfoliate dead skin cells for get brighter, clearer skin. (Just a note, Solution does also contain AHAs and BHAs, so if you’re sensitive, proceed with caution.)
Not using a toner? You should be. Also from Exuviance, this Moisture Balance Toner will even out your skin’s pH while using PHAs to hydrate.
Finally, get in on the PHA serum fun with the Hydrating Serum from PCA Skin. This is a perfect step right before moisturizer as it will condition, boost collagen production, and calm any redness or irritation leftover from exfoliation.

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Conscious Beauty Lifestyle

How To Clean Makeup Brushes (And Why You Need To Do It More Often)

Are you getting zits in crazy places, like nestled along your hairline or in the center of your cheeks? Is your skin oilier or dryer than normal? Are you noticing patchy makeup application?
You might be quick to blame your hormones, your genetics, or stress for wreaking havoc on your face, but in reality, your dirty makeup brushes might be the culprit.
Your makeup brushes can actually harbor tons of bacteria, according to Ann Turner, a freelance makeup artist based in Jacksonville, Florida: “Natural bristle brushes are especially porous, which can cause bacteria to grow in brush fibers if they’re not cleaned regularly.”
Gross.
That’s why you should be cleaning your foundation makeup brushes and beauty blenders at least once a week, and your eyeshadow brushes at least twice a month. Plus, not only does regular makeup brush cleaning keep your face safer, it can actually extend the life of your brushes.
[related article_ids=1005850]
Can’t remember the last time you cleaned your makeup brushes? Don’t know how to clean makeup brushes in the first place?
Lucky for your skin, it’s easy to clean makeup brushes. It’s never too late to start, either. Plus, keeping your makeup brushes clean is one of the easiest ways to keep your skin glowing and healthy.

A Few Things to Know About How to Clean Makeup Brushes

Before cleaning your makeup brushes, you’ll need to determine if your brushes are made of natural or synthetic fibers.
It should be easy to tell the difference. Natural bristle makeup brushes are made from animal hair, so they generally feel very soft. Synthetic-bristle brushes, on the other hand, are slicker and less soft. (Luckily, they both do a great job of blending your makeup—but only when they’re clean!)
Turner prefers synthetic bristles, which “harbor less bacteria, and are great for blending full-coverage foundation for a flawless finish.”
Synthetic brushes can also withstand harsher cleaning, because, well, they’re synthetic. Natural bristle brushes may wear out faster if they’re not cleaned correctly.

How to Clean Makeup Brushes: The Light Cleanse

It’s important to clean makeup brushes as often as you can, but your regular cleanse can be fairly low-effort. And before you say you barely have time for coffee, let alone spending extra time frivolously cleaning brushes, it literally only takes five minutes to lightly clean your makeup brushes, so no excuses!
You should clean makeup brushes after every use, but according to Turner “if you are the only one using your brushes on a daily basis, you can get by with lightly cleaning them once or twice a week.”
If you’ve never done it before, here’s how to clean makeup brushes to get out everyday residue:

  1. You can use an everyday cleanser to clean makeup brushes. Turner recommends IT Cosmetics Brush Bath Purifying Brush Cleanser or Jane Iredale Botanical Brush Cleaner.
  2. Gently swipe your makeup brush back and forth against a clean cloth until it starts rubbing clean. (Go ahead and splurge on a larger latte, because you don’t need to purchase fancy brush cleaning tools, says Turner. All you need is an inexpensive pack of cotton washcloths. I like these white cotton washcloths from AmazonBasics.)
  3. Leave your brush to dry. Easy as pie!

“Just make sure you gently rub your brushes into the cloth,” Turner explains. “If you are rough with your brushes, especially natural fibers, they’ll wear out faster.”

Our Makeup Brush Cleanser Picks:

How to Clean Makeup Brushes: The Deep Cleanse

Deep cleaning and disinfecting your makeup brushes should be done at least once a week (and more often if you use heavily pigmented foundation, which can gunk up brushes quickly).
Here’s how to clean makeup brushes in order to really get the junk out:

  1. All you need to deep clean your brushes is a small bowl filled with warm water (Turner likes to put a few marbles in hers for the brushes to rest on) and a couple of drops of gentle baby shampoo, like Johnson’s Natural Baby Shampoo.
  2. Mix the baby shampoo into the bowl of warm water until it’s a little bubbly, but not overflowing with suds. Think less like your post work-week wine bubble bath, and more like the little dish of water you dip your hands in for a manicure.
  3. Swirl your brushes in the water carefully so that the ferrule doesn’t get wet.

What’s a ferrule?
So glad you asked.
The ferrule is the metal part of your brush that holds the bristles to the brush handle. If the ferrule gets wet repeatedly, it can not only harbor bacteria, but compromise the integrity of your brush, causing bristles to loosen and fall out.

  1. After you swirl your brush in its little bubble bath, tap the excess water off before swirling the bristles on a cloth until the brush rubs clean, just like you do throughout the week.
  2. After washing brushes, it’s important to lay them flat to dry with the fibers laying over the edge of the counter or table so air can circulate around them easily. This also helps brushes reform their natural shape after cleaning and keeps moisture out of the base of the brush (remember ferrule, the word of the day?)

“After washing and drying my brushes, I place them in a large vase filled with marbles,” says Turner. “That way they stay upright, not touching one another until they are dry. Plus, its a great way to store your brushes. You could also get creative and use river rocks or sand in different containers to store your brushes between use.”

How to Clean Makeup Brushes: Beauty Blender Edition

So it’s not really a brush, but the beauty blender is the true workhorse of any makeup routine. But when was the last time you showed your beauty blender the attention it deserves?
If you’re not regularly cleaning your beauty blender, go ahead and apologize to your blender (and your skin). Dirty beauty blenders are extremely porous, so they can hide tons of mold and bacteria, which, like dirty makeup brushes, can cause your face to break out.
Your beauty blender needs to be cleaned every day because it can soak up a LOT of product. To clean your blender, saturate it with warm water and a couple drops of shampoo. Gently wash until the water runs clear, squeeze the excess water out of the blender, and allow it to fully air dry before the next use.
Alas, that pretty pink egg isn’t meant to last a lifetime. You should plan on replacing your beauty blender every three to four months.
Time for a replacement?

Shop Beauty Blenders:

FAQ on How to Clean Makeup Brushes

You asked; we answer.
Q: Can I clean my makeup brushes with plain old dish soap?
A: Yes! And no. You can clean synthetic makeup brushes and beauty blenders with regular dish soap because it’s harder to cut through makeup residue on these materials. But you want to use a more gentle cleaning agent on natural bristle brushes. Since they come from animals, think of cleaning your natural bristle makeup brushes the same way you clean your hair. A cleanser that’s too harsh will leave your makeup brush fibers dry and brittle.
Q: If I can use tea tree oil to clean my makeup brushes, can I use different oils, like coconut or olive oil, too?
A: You can add just a smidge (a very, very small amount) of olive oil as a moisturizing agent when deep-cleaning your brushes, but it may not be a good idea to substitute olive oil with coconut oil. Coconut oil is pretty high on the comedogenic scale, which measures an oil’s pore-clogging tendencies. If you have break-out prone skin, it’s probably best to leave the coconut oil in the kitchen.
Q: Do I need to throw out makeup brushes after I pink eye, or can I just disinfect them?
A: Sorry to tell you, but yes. You can certainly try to completely disinfect your brushes, but why would you risk getting pink eye again? If you used any of your brushes near your eye, you’re taking a big risk by using them again.
Q: Is sharing makeup brushes with friends really that bad?
A: Not necessarily. When you were sharing eyeshadow brushes and mascara with your sixth grade besties, you probably weren’t regularly washing your makeup brushes (probably because you didn’t own any makeup brushes other than disposable applicators, which do not count). Fast forward a few years and now you’re doing each other’s makeup before a night out. Sharing makeup brushes is almost always okay—as long as you clean your makeup brushes after each individual use.
Q: Is it okay to leave my makeup brushes in the bathroom? That’s where I do my makeup anyway.
A: Riddle me this: Do you know how many poo particles are floating around your bathroom at any given time? Well, it’s sort of a lot. A 2015 study found that 60 percent of toothbrushes left in bathrooms had traces of fecal matter on them. Samesies for your expensive makeup brushes.
If you don’t have the space for a full-on makeup room (hey, we’re not all Kylie Jenner), try creating a small makeup station on top of your dresser or in other non-bathroom space. Because nobody wants poo on their face.

Create Your Makeup Station:

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Conscious Beauty Lifestyle

Dry Brushing: A Skincare Miracle Or Too Good To Be True?

If you’re like me, you barely have time to pop on a detoxifying face mask once a week, much less head to the spa for a full-body detox session.
That’s why I was so excited to hear about the practice of dry brushing, a process of brushing your skin with a natural-bristle brush that’s supposed to promote energy, reduce cellulite, and drain toxins from your skin. Best of all, dry brushing is easy to do at home: no spa required.
Naturally, I was a little skeptical that simply dry brushing my skin in a certain pattern would actually work, so I before I invested in a dry brush, I consulted the experts to find out whether dry brushing is a skincare miracle solution or simply too good to be true.

Bye, bye cellulite? Not so fast.

Dry brushing is actually a centuries-old practice dating back to the days of Hippocrates. As the name implies, the practice involves brushing your dry skin with a coarse, short-bristled brush.
So why do it?
“[Dry brushing] works by stimulating the sebaceous glands, thereby encouraging natural lubrication of your skin; removing the top layer of dead cells, leading to significant exfoliation and skin that’s polished and silky; improving circulation and increasing blood flow to the surface of the body,” says Stephanie Tourles, a licensed esthetician, herbalist, and author of Organic Body Care Recipes.
Because dry brushing increases circulation and blood flow to the skin’s surface, it’s also touted as a cure for cellulite.
I’ll be totally honest, getting rid of my lumps and bumps is one of the main reasons I personally started dry brushing.
But, like most things that sound too good to be true, Tania Elliott, MD, a leading New York allergist and Chief Medical Officer at EHE, Inc., says, “There is no evidence though, to support that dry brushing can reduce cellulite.”
However, many people still swear that dry brushing does improve their cellulite.
“I’ve noticed improved tone in the jiggle-prone parts of my body” says Tourles referring to those trouble spots so many of us face: the upper arms and inner thighs.
In reality, dry brushing does increase short-term circulation. Increased blood flow actually puffs up skin, which can reduce the appearance of cellulite—temporarily—which is why I’m guilty of sneaking in a dry brushing session if I know I’m going to be seen in my swimsuit or if my spouse and I have scheduled some grown-up time. Hey, sometimes a girl needs all the help she can get!
And even if dry brushing doesn’t banish stubborn cellulite, you’ll notice immediate results in the smoothness of your skin after just a day or two of dry brushing, thanks to its exfoliating effects. But since there’s really only anecdotal proof that this practice helps reduce the long-term appearance of cellulite, you may have to wait several weeks to see if you notice a reduction in those dimples on the back of your thighs.

Don’t you know that you’re toxic?

Well, not exactly toxic, more like your skin has toxins.
“Over the course of an average day, your skin eliminates more than a pound of waste, including perspiration,” says Tourles. “If your skin is not carrying out normal elimination due to basic neglect of hygiene, illness, dry skin buildup, medication side effects, repeated application of mineral oil-based, pore-clogging body lotions or waterproof chemical-based sunscreens, or nutritional deficiencies, then your kidneys, large intestine, liver, and lungs may be operating on a subpar level.”  
Dry brushing has recently gotten major buzz as an easy way to detox your skin because it promotes lymphatic drainage, which is supposed to help remove toxins.
According to an article published in the Journal of Circulation Research, the lymphatic system “plays an integral role in the regulation of tissue fluid homeostasis, immune cell trafficking, and absorption of dietary fats” and it works in tandem with the circulatory system to regularly flush toxins from the body.
Similar to the way that dry brushing temporarily energizes circulation, it also aids the lymphatic system by stimulating lymph glands just under the skin.
Your lymphatic system carries internal waste to different “dumping sites” in your body, according to the Circuelle Foundation, a non-profit organization focused on long-term breast health. While the heart helps blood pump throughout the body, the lymphatic system doesn’t have a built-in pump. Dry brushing, like massage, essentially acts as the lymphatic system’s pump, pushing toxins out of the body and carrying beneficial white blood cells throughout the lymphatic system.
“The lymph is very delicate,” says Marie Starling, doctor of chiropractic, a chiropractic internist and functional medicine specialist at the Healing Center in Denver. “Too much pressure will restrict the flow within the lymph vessels. When the lymph is stimulated in this way, it is transported to the lymph nodes where it is filtered. The tonsils, adenoids, spleen, and thymus are all part of this system that helps the body detoxify and fight infection.”
In addition to boosting your body’s ability to fight infection on its own, Starling says that dry brushing can also help decrease water retention, which you may see on the scale as a decrease in water weight and bloating.

Really, all you have to do is brush your skin.

Dry brushing really is that simple.
You can dry brush your skin any way you like, but to get the most out of dry brushing, Starling recommends following these steps to promote lymphatic drainage and circulation:

  • Start with the bottom of the feet and work your way up to the knee with brisk, upward strokes. Do one side and then the other.
  • Then, from the knee, stroke upward in small strokes moving toward the abdomen. Do one side and then the other.
  • At the abdomen, brush in small, upward circles.
  • Then move to the arms, starting with the palms and using short strokes that move in toward the torso on both the tops and undersides of the arms, finishing at the armpit. Do one arm and then the other.
  • Gently brush the chest area using circular motions.
  • Continue with small strokes up the neck toward the face.
  • Use a brush with a handle to brush the back in short, upward strokes.

Starling suggests that women avoid dry brushing their breasts, whereas Circuelle suggests dry brushing benefits breast health and hosts a diagram that shows that drainage associated with a dry-brushing ritual occurs in the breasts and other parts of the body.
“The ideal cadence is no more than two to three times per week—regular use can damage the skin barrier and lead to irritation,” says Elliott. “Remember, the skin is the largest organ in the body and it is the first barrier of our immune system. Over-irritation and skin breakdown can lead to infection risk.”
If you have concerns about the safety of dry brushing for your skin or breast health, it’s best to chat with your doctor.
Dry brushing in the bathroom? Watch out for water! Elliott says that if your brush gets wet, it can become a breeding ground for viruses and bacteria, so it’s important to clean your brush regularly.
To do so, simply wash and rinse with warm soapy water once a week.
“It will take your skin a while to get used to being brushed,” says Tourles, who recommends using a medium-soft, natural-fiber brush about the size of your palm for dry brushing.
“Never scrub though,” says Tourles. “Your body is not the tub!”
Your skin should be rosy pink, but never red, irritated, or itchy after dry brushing.
“You’ll feel wonderfully invigorated when you’re finished, and your skin will glow,” says Tourles. “If you’re just beginning, your skin may be a bit red immediately afterward, but as it adjusts and becomes more acclimated to the treatment, only a pinkish tinge (depending on your pigmentation) will remain for about five minutes until circulation calms.  If your skin remains red or pink for a longer period, or feels irritated, then either the brush bristles are too firm or you’re brushing way too hard.”
For people with sensitive skin, Sejal Shah, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and RealSelf contributor, says “I generally recommend starting once a week and increasing slowly (up to daily) as your skin tolerates. I do suggest starting with a washcloth and working gradually up to something stiffer once you get to the desired effect.”  
Always brush clean, dry skin before hopping in the shower, so that you can rinse off all the dead skin cells you just sloughed off. After your shower, use a rich moisturizing lotion or body oil to help keep skin soft, especially if you have sensitive skin.
After I shower, my go-to moisturizer is still Johnson and Johnson’s Baby Oil, which I rub on while I’m still wet, just before I towel dry. It smells delicious and keeps my skin literally baby soft all day long.
Though most dermatologists recommend dry brushing a few times a week, if your skin tolerates brushing, you can do it daily, ideally in the morning as an energizing part of your routine, says Tourles.
“It doesn’t take me thirty minutes to wake up in the morning, like it used to!  For me, dry brushing is equivalent to a shot of espresso,” says Tourles.
However, there’s nothing wrong with dry brushing before bedtime if that’s when you normally shower.
So, what’s the bottom line?
Maybe dry brushing isn’t quite the skincare miracle some fans make it out to be, but it isn’t completely bogus, either.
I like dry brushing because it’s a quick and easy way to exfoliate my skin and temporarily hide my cellulite for a day at the beach. Coupled with my ten-minute morning yoga flow, dry brushing really does give me a boost of energy.
But if you’re looking for a quick way to detox, most doctors say there is no substitute for taking better care of your whole body. To boost your immune system and stay healthy, eat a healthy diet, drink plenty of water, get regular exercise, limit alcohol, sugary treats, and saturated fats, and consider adding dry brushing to your skincare routine.
Want to see for yourself if dry brushing lives up to the hype?
Here are some of our favorite products for your dry brushing routine:

The Organic Pharmacy Skin Brush

This natural-bristle brush features a long handle for hard-to-reach places as well as a small elastic band to slip around your hand for close brushing. The bristles are firm, but can be gentle enough to use on sensitive skin.

Dry Body Brush Set

This set includes two boar-bristle brushes (one for each hand!) and a cute bag to store your dry brushes. Plus, by purchasing this set, you’re supporting a small, woman-owned business in addition to getting great skin. Win-win!

EcoTools Dry Body Brush

This synthetic brush by EcoTools is the perfect cruelty-free dry brush for vegans or anyone concerned about animal welfare. At a price point under $10, it’s also one of the most affordable dry brushes out there. While the lack of a handle will make it harder to reach your back, the circular shape makes it easy to swirl on your skin to promote lymphatic drainage.

The Skinsoother by DermaFrida

Okay, so this product is technically for babies, but it’s also the perfect alternative to a stiff brush if you have sensitive skin. The set comes with two brushes, so you can have one and baby can, too! Plus, it features a suction cup on the back, so your brush can hang out in one convenient place.

tulasāra Radiant Facial Dry Brush

This Aveda dry brush is specially made for the sensitive skin on your face. It features medium-firm nylon bristles, so your face won’t get irritated. Just as dry brushing can temporarily reduce the appearance of cellulite, it can also temporarily reduce the appearance of fine lines on the face.

Wholesome Beauty Dry Skin Body Brush

This natural-bristle dry brush scores extra points for its long detachable handle. It also comes with a convenient travel pouch and hook, so you can easily reach your dry brush during your morning routine.

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Conscious Beauty Lifestyle

Forget Makeup, Food Could Be Your Next Favorite Cosmetic

Run out of foundation this morning? No worries. Head to the pantry and give peanut butter a try.
Where do you think we got that idea? From a YouTube trend, of course. At some point in the recent past, YouTube makeup artists began creating full-face looks with items from their pantry. Some have more success with their ingredients than others, but the array of foods they use, and the looks they create, are incredibly impressive—even the bad ones. Especially the bad ones.
Lily Lowe is a popular YouTube makeup artist who decided to try out the food-as-makeup challenge.
[pullquote align=”center”]“I knew the [food-as-makeup] trend existed, and I find it so enjoyable and fascinating how every single thing around us is an instrument for art.”
—YouTuber Lily Lowe[/pullquote]
“It’s obvious that fruits and stuff with food colouring will leave a nice tint, so I thought, ‘Perfect,’” she tells HealthyWay. “What’s going to go wrong?”
Lowe isn’t the only one taking on the challenge. It’s a full-fledged trend, and if you want to get in on the tasty action, just keep reading. Just keep in mind that this is just a one-off experiment, not a dedicated, daily makeup regimen.

iStock.com/Steve Debenport

Oh, and before you run off to the store and stock up on foods to try this yourself, be aware of allergies you might have. If you’re unsure about how something will react on your skin, test out a small patch first before slathering it across your whole face. And obviously, don’t use foods you have a known allergy to. That wouldn’t be good.

First, exfoliate.

Before you get ready for the day, it’s always a good idea to clean and exfoliate your skin. Exfoliation helps get rid of dead, dull skin cells, leaving you looking as radiant as possible. There are lots of different products out there, but why not save money and use a secretly amazing exfoliant that’s probably already in your pantry?

@BrookAlyson99/Twitter

We’re talking, of course, about coffee grounds. Not only do you get to enjoy a cup of joe in the morning, but you can then use the grounds as part of your beauty routine. Coffee grounds are coarse but not harsh, and you can use them on your face or your whole body. In fact, coffee grounds have nearly the same pH as your skin, so they shouldn’t leave you feeling too oily or dry.

2. A Tasty Foundation

Once your skin is clean and smooth, it’s time to apply your base foundation. A handful of artists use peanut butter because it is similar to a cream-based foundation. Make sure you buy smooth peanut butter, and if you need to make it thinner for easier application, just add a little coconut oil—this was Lowe’s saving grace during her attempt. Once you have the product prepared, just smooth it onto your face and use a brush or beauty sponge to smooth it into your skin.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BFPe3WkGH9p/?hl=en&taken-by=lou_flores
Plain peanut butter tends to work best for lighter skin tones, but you can add cocoa powder to the mix to adjust the pigment. If you find the peanut butter too thick or not as manageable as you’d like, you can mix cornstarch and cocoa powder to make a food-based powder foundation.

3. Eyeshadow

With so many colorful options available for eyeshadow, you might think there’s no way the food options can compare. Not true! Depending on the look and style you’re going for, there are a ton of food items that can replace store-bought products.

Lily Lowe/YouTube

The first option is to use different fruits. Smash blackberries and blueberries and (carefully) apply the juice to eyelids for a dark, yet soft tone. For earthy tones, you can use plain cocoa powder or spirulina. Be careful not to be too heavy-handed with the powders, though. Use a small brush and start off with a tiny bit of product, then build from there.

4. Brows and Contour

If you need to fill your eyebrows in, there are a few food-based options. However, most of them only work for those with darker hair. Cocoa powder can work as a brow filler, or you could use almost any other chocolate product. You could warm up a chocolate icing, a chocolate candy bar, or peanut butter and use those similarly as a liquid or cream product.
The same goes for using food for contouring. Chocolate products (in either powder or cream form) can be applied with a brush or sponge and used to contour your face. Some will blend better than others. And remember, if you’re having difficulty getting something to blend or set, try adding some coconut or jojoba oil.

YouTube star Ms. Yeah takes this makeup trend to the next level in her video. Not only does she use a plethora of food products found in her office (including chocolate powder for brow filler), but she creates a brow brush from an actual chicken feather.

5. Baking

Now you can actually “bake” your face with real baking ingredients! In case you aren’t familiar with the term “baking” in regards to your makeup routine, it’s a way to set your foundation for a flawless look. Baking involves dusting your face with a translucent powder, allowing the heat from your face to set your foundation and concealer for 10 minutes or so. Then you dust the powder off.

@rimmaco/Twitter

If you want to try baking your food-based full face, you can use actual baking flour. After you’ve applied your foundation, use a powder puff and press flour onto your cheeks and under your eyes. Wait 10 minutes and then dust the flour off.

6. Lips

Remember devouring tons of candy as a child and realizing if you ate enough Skittles or Jolly Ranchers your tongue would turn colors? Well, now you get to use those candies in place of boring ol’ lipstick.
https://twitter.com/vicesadvirtues/status/975307589599686656
Skittles or Kool-Aid are good options for funky lip stain colors. To use Skittles, warm the candy in your hand, or melt them down in a microwave (but be sure to let them cool before touching). Once they are soft or slightly runny, you can use your finger or a small brush to apply the color to your lips. For Kool-Aid, dampen your finger, dip it in the powder (just a little at a time), and apply to your lips.
You can also use crushed berries, barbecue sauce, or even hot sauce (though we aren’t sure why you’d want to do that) for more subtle tones. Check out Stephanie Lange’s video that shows her using barbecue sauce as lipstick and brow filler.

7. Blush and Bronzer

After all the work (and food) you’ve used to make yourself look great, you need to top everything off with a nice blush or bronzer/highlight. Why go through all that trouble to not look as stunning as possible?

HealthyWay
iStock.com/nickpo

Again, you can reuse a lot of the food products from other sections here, too—it all depends on your skin tone. Cocoa powder can work as a bronzer or as contour. Crushed strawberries or raspberries work well as natural blush colors. If you want something with a little more sparkle, you can try out some edible glitter as highlighter or blush.

Now, it’s your turn.

If you’re curious about this makeup trend but don’t know where to start, there’s a good chance your favorite makeup artist has already made a video of them trying it out. Some have more success than others, but you can see how each food item reacts and works in different situations.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BNIBbarhrQX/?taken-by=makeup_maven
Lowe, who you’ll remember from the beginning of this article, set out to do a natural, full-face look using nothing but food.
“I knew the trend existed, and I find it so enjoyable and fascinating how every single thing around us is an instrument for art,” Lowe tells HealthyWay. “So that was my main reason for making up my face with food, combined with the fact that I just fancied a light-hearted fun challenge for my channel.”
In the video, Lowe does a great job at implementing the products…but some of them just won’t cooperate.
Lowe’s plan included: peanut butter for foundation, setting the foundation with flour, contour and eyeshadow with cocoa powder, edible glitter for highlighter, blueberries for eyeshadow and mascara, a mix of cocoa powder, flour, peanut butter, and coconut oil for her brows, and Skittles as a lip tint. Lowe was confident with her choices in the beginning.

HealthyWay
Lily Lowe/YouTube

“I did have a lot of faith in the food at first! I’d done some research beforehand, [which taught me that foods] that have good color pay off,” she says.
When Lowe began applying the foods to her face, she quickly encountered some difficulties. Thinning the products with coconut oil definitely helped, but each item came with its own difficulty in regards to blending and covering the skin evenly.
“Getting my base done was definitely the hardest,” Lowe says. “Mixing everything with coconut oil seemed to be my savior, as it thinned the peanut butter ‘foundation’ to a nice consistency, but it definitely doesn’t feel the best on your skin, nor does it supply any coverage you may be surprised to hear.”
HealthyWay
Lily Lowe/YouTube

These problems didn’t stop Lowe! She powered through and finished applying all the items, discovering some surprises along the way. Despite the peanut butter being tacky and the cocoa powder refusing to blend, Lowe created a beautiful, neutral-tone look, and says she is eager to try all of this again.
If you’re worried about how your skin will react to being covered in food, just know that this wasn’t a problem for Lowe.
“I think a lot of people expected my skin to suffer a lot after this, but I can truthfully say that my skin was completely fine afterwards,” she says. “If you think about it, there is probably a lot more harmful chemicals in the stuff we put on our skin everyday, and it was only sitting on my skin for a brief time before I cleansed it thoroughly.”

Another makeup artist, seen above, took this challenge to a whole new level and only used food items to apply her makeup. No brushes—only food. Think you can master these techniques?
Before you try either one of these, it’s important to try to waste as little food as possible. Buy products you would normally use, and only take out small portions at a time. This way, you’ll be looking good responsibly. Good luck!

Categories
Conscious Beauty Lifestyle

The #NoMakeup Selfie Movement: Is Less Makeup More Attractive?

Beyonce did it. Chrissy Teigen, Carrie Underwood, Adele, Alicia Keys, and even Sofia Vergara did it, too. Heck, you’d be hard-pressed to find any female celeb who hasn’t joined in.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BZKOnU9AuXK/?taken-by=cindycrawford
And surprisingly, it isn’t a new exercise or plastic surgery that has musicians, actresses, models, and women in the public eye getting involved. Perhaps unsurprisingly, this recent trend involves appearances—but probably not how you think.
Rather than endorsing a new makeup or beauty product, scores of celebrities are encouraging others to embrace their natural beauty and go makeup-free instead. At least for the time it takes to post an Instagram selfie, that is.

Some of the biggest names in Hollywood have posted their #nomakeup selfies all over the social media platform. Recently, Christina Aguilera was brave enough to set her makeup-free face in stone—err, print it on paper—and her barefaced Paper magazine shoot quickly sent just about everyone into a tizzy.
The hope is that these makeup-less celebrities will encourage and empower all women to be happy and confident with their makeup-less faces—happy and confident enough to let the whole world see.
And although it’s obvious that many of these gals are gorgeous with and without makeup—especially with the help of camera and Instagram filters—it raises a question about beauty and attractiveness. Are these celebs—and people in general—better looking with or without cosmetic help?

Why do women wear makeup?

According to a study conducted by beauty retailer SkinStore, the average American woman spends about $300,000 worth of eye shadow, serum, mascara, foundation, powder, moisturizer, and other beauty products in her lifetime. She’s spending eight big ones a day to get her skin glowing, her eyes popping, and her eyebrows perfectly shaped.
Considering that women spend as much as the cost of a home on beauty products in their lives and that the makeup industry makes $18 billion a year, it’s pretty evident that women think that makeup is an essential part of their beauty routines. But the question is, why?
https://www.instagram.com/p/BgzT0ApBugr/?taken-by=papermagazine
When a woman looks in the mirror before applying her makeup, would she think she’s beautiful? If the beauty industry failed to exist, or at least didn’t plaster images of flawless, makeup-faced celebrities all over, would she really feel she needs cosmetics to be beautiful?
Although there will likely never be an answer to that question, we can come up with a few reasons for why women wear makeup and whether or not powders, creams, colors, and beauty makeup tricks (think contouring) actually do make them more attractive.
https://twitter.com/KardashianReact/status/971267006149414913
For starters, does a woman wear makeup to please herself, or those around her? Would she want to wear makeup if the opinions of others about her appearance didn’t matter to her?
Although some women may not want to admit it, what others think about their appearances does affect them.

“I think it’s a combination,” says Dawn Maslar, aka “The Love Biologist,” adjunct biology professor and author of Men Chase, Women Choose. “A woman may try out makeup to see how she looks, then wear it out to see the effect. If she seems to get more attention or comments with makeup, that gives her positive reinforcement. Therefore, she will more likely continue to wear makeup.”
Not only can makeup help women in the romance area, it can actually help them advance their careers.
https://twitter.com/SkSamantha/status/501050904288587776
Researchers Jaclyn Wong of the University of Chicago and Andrew Penner of the University of California at Irvine found that attractive people are favored in the workplace, according to their study published in the Journal of Social Stratification and Mobility. And we’re not just talking about Employee of the Month status here—they make more cash annually. For women, this means the choice of whether to wear makeup or go au natural could make the difference between a successful career or one that is only ho-hum.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BGuXGoMvwxz/?taken-by=beyonce
And of course, a woman may also simply just want to wear makeup. After all, who doesn’t want radiant skin and glam lashes?
“I think women believe they need it to look ‘better’ or ‘best’,” says Sue Weinschenk, PhD, chief behavioral scientist at The Team W, Inc. and adjunct professor at the University of Wisconsin, Stevens Point. “I think they want to because they think it improves their looks/makes them look younger. I think they do it both for themselves and others. Many, or most, women have a ‘self-story’ which is something like, ‘If I want to look my best, I need to wear some makeup.’
Wearing makeup is also often a way to enhance your appearance so that others may want to become romantic with you. One of the problems with this, however, is that women are often clueless as to what a man finds attractive—when it comes to makeup, that is.

Researchers Alex Jones at Bangor University and Robin Kramer at Aberdeen University in the United Kingdom conducted a study that focused on the preference of the amount of makeup a woman wears. In other words, they asked participants whether they liked more makeup or less makeup on a woman’s face.
The men in the study didn’t find too much or too little attractive; they typically liked it somewhere between the two. The women who participated thought that the men would prefer more makeup as opposed to a little or none. This means that women are often applying layers of beauty products, thinking that this is what a man wants. In reality, he might like makeup in moderation.

Why are we attracted to what we are?

By what standards are attractive people measured? Why are people attracted to some qualities but not to others? Turns out, it may be up to genetics.
“Genetically, we are attracted to people with opposite immune systems,” says Maslar. “This is called the major histocompatibility complex. The more opposite we are, the more attractive we find the other person.”
[pullquote align=”center”]“We are attracted to a combination of opposite and familiar.”
—Dawn Maslar, “The Love Biologist”[/pullquote]
The major histocompatibility complex gene helps the immune system detect invaders and is identified through a man’s scent. Typically, a woman is attracted to a man who has an immune system that is different than hers. It is thought that this is because children who have varied immune systems have a good chance of being healthier. Even though creating a hybrid immune system may have been more of a concern before the advent of modern medicine than it is today, it is still believed to play a role in who a person finds attractive.

The appearance of reproductive health can also impact who we find attractive. Certain characteristics in women, like an ideal hip-to-waist ratio, long hair, odor, and youthfulness, are thought to be primal signs of a reproductively healthy woman and are often a factor in whether a man is attracted.

But as you likely know, attraction is usually about more than just the physical features. Personality also usually plays a major role in attractiveness, and what we find attractive is typically what we are used to, says Maslar.
“We are attracted to a combination of opposite and familiar,” Maslar says. “We are naturally attracted to people that are genetically different than us. However, we have to have a sense of safety, and that comes from familiarity. For instance, we are more likely to pick someone who resembles our opposite sex parent at that same age if we liked that parent. Women who were raised by older parents are more likely to pick a partner older than herself.”

When it comes down to it, the answer to makeup or no makeup is one that is highly individual. Everyone has different tastes, and determining what one likes best is based on genetic, primal, and environmental factors.
The point of the #nomakeup movement is to empower women to feel comfortable in their own skins. To feel confident in their appearance, even without a stitch of makeup.
However, let’s be real: How many of these “natural” selfies are actually natural?
https://www.instagram.com/p/BVctD1RAMXM/?taken-by=gal_gadot
When you factor in the amount of alterations the women in the pictures have likely made to their appearances, the no-makeup selfies are misleading. Yes, women are beautiful without makeup. But the average Jill may feel like her no makeup selfie can’t compare with a celebrity’s, who has probably had botox, lip fillers, microdermabrasion, or some type of beauty-enhancement procedure. She may feel her makeup-free picture pales in comparison to someone in the public eye because she believes the celebrity looks flawless, naturally. In reality, the celeb may only look that way because she paid to have that appearance.
The bottom line is, whether you’re team #nomakeup or team pile it on, just be happy and comfortable with why you choose what you choose.

Categories
Conscious Beauty Lifestyle

Tea Tree Oil Uses That Can Change Your Skin (And Life)

We’re stepping into spring (thank goodness!) but for most of us, windy days and dry air aren’t completely over. This weather is great for mid-afternoon naps, but these wintry days can wreak havoc on our skin, hair, and nails, making us look more like White Walkers than the Mother of Dragons.   
But what if there was an all-natural product that could could give you a Westerosi glow without having to spend hours in a spray-tan booth or makeup chair?
Sound too good to be true? Well, hold on to your strobing brushes, because there may be such a product. What’s more, it’s fairly inexpensive and can be found in most health food stores.
Intrigued? Try tea tree oil. The number of uses for tea tree oil will quickly make it a mainstay of your winter beauty routine.

Tea tree oil comes from Mela-what?

The name “tea tree” can actually refer to a whole group of common shrubs and flowering trees in the Melaleuca and Leptospermum families. Tea tree oil as most of us know it refers to an essential oil derived from Melaleuca alternifolia, an Australian tree in the myrtle family.
According to the Australian Tea Tree Oil Industry Association, Melaleuca was used medicinally for centuries by the indigenous Bundjalung people. British explorer James Cook observed the Bundjalung drinking a tea made from the leaves of a Melaleuca tree and so named the plant “tea tree.” (Creative, huh?)
Tea tree oil has consistently been a vital part of Australia’s economy. Fortunately, these days you don’t have to travel to Australia to purchase tea tree oil (though we’d appreciate the excuse). Essential oils are undoubtedly having a moment, and you can now find popular oils like tea tree, peppermint, and lemon in most grocery stores and pharmacies.

Tea Tree Oil You Can Trust

Before you buy any essential oil, though, make sure you follow a few guidelines to ensure you’re getting the best quality product.
While you may be tempted by inexpensive prices, it’s best to avoid cheap essential oils. These cheaper oils may be diluted with water or contain other additives, dimishing their therapeutic qualities. Even though you may have to spend a few dollars more, it’s worth it to purchase a higher quality oil, because you’ll only need a drop or two for maximum efficacy.
In addition, beware of sneaky advertising. If you see labels on tea tree oil like “therapeutic grade” or “all natural,” don’t be fooled. The product may indeed be all natural, but the essential oil industry is not closely regulated, so companies can set their own product standards (which may be less than stellar).
Rebekah Epling, a West Virginia–based herbalist who makes her own skincare products, says her go-to brand of tea tree oil comes from Mountain Rose Herbs, an Oregon-based company committed to sustainably sourced products.

Using Tea Tree Oil: Safety First!

So, you’re likely wondering, how can I use this incredible oil? Glad you asked!
“Tea tree oil has antibacterial and antifungal qualities, primarily from a type of oil it contains called terpene,” Epling tells HealthyWay.
Terpene oils are both aromatic and extremely volatile, which is why tea tree oil in particular should never be ingested or applied to the skin undiluted under any circumstances.
“Tea tree oil is most commonly used in aromatherapy, for household cleaning, and topically for issues such as acne, athlete’s foot, fungal infections of the nails, dandruff, dry scalp, and bug bites,” Epling explains.
Although tea tree oil does have antibacterial and antifungal properties, it’s not a cure-all for every skin condition.
Tea tree oil is a popular homeopathic remedy for skin problems like eczema and psoriasis, according to Tara Nayak, a naturopathic doctor based in Philadelphia, but it isn’t the best treatment option if you’re looking for a natural alternative to prescription treatment of these conditions.
“I don’t typically recommend tea tree oil for eczema or psoriasis,” says Nayak. “In fact, rather than give something that kills bacteria in these cases, I tend to prescribe a probiotic instead to add beneficial bacteria to the skin.”
If you do use tea tree oil for certain skin conditions, Nayak says, “Using a probiotic skin spray can also be beneficial after using tea tree to kill off bacterial or fungal skin issues, as it replenishes the healthy bacterial environment on the skin.”
If you have eczema or psoriasis, check with your doctor before treating your skin with any homeopathic or natural remedy.

Dilute, Dilute, Dilute

Despite its name, tea tree oil is actually toxic if ingested, so it should only be applied topically. According to the Toxicology Data Network, if swallowed, tea tree oil can cause drowsiness, disorientation, and loss of muscle control. Yikes.
If you use tea tree oil (or other essential oils at home), make sure that they’re kept on a high shelf or in a locked cabinet away from small children, who are most at risk for poisoning.
You should always dilute tea tree oil before topical use. That’s because essential oils (tea tree oil included) are highly concentrated, so their effects are exceptionally potent. If you don’t dilute tea tree oil first, you could experience skin irritation or even an allergic reaction.
Fortunately, diluting tea tree oil is easy, says Epling: “Simply blend a few drops with a carrier oil, such as coconut oil or jojoba oil or even water.”

Tea Tree Oil Uses

Now that we know what it is and how to use it safely, let’s get down to how to work tea tree oil into your routine. Whether you’re looking for at-home cures or beauty tips, these six uses for tea tree oil will make you an essential oil convert.

  1. 1. So Fresh and So Clean

    Depending on how you use it, tea tree oil can be harsh on the skin. If your tea tree oil mixture is too strong, says Nayak, “it can kill off not only the bad but also the beneficial bacteria” that your skin needs.
    This can lead to dry, flaky skin and a higher sensitivity to ultraviolet (UV) rays.
    The more diluted tea tree oil is, the less harsh it will be on your skin, but no worries: You’ll still reap the antiseptic benefits.
    Nayak suggests consulting with a dermatologist before you incorporate tea tree oil in your skincare routine. If they give the all clear, it should be fine to use tea tree oil as a part of your beauty arsenal.
    “Tea tree oil does make a great facial cleanser,” says Epling, who makes her own face wash. “To make your own tea tree oil face wash, combine 1 tablespoon of activated charcoal, ½ cup of aloe vera extract gel (the clear kind you can purchase at any drugstore), ⅓ cup raw honey, and 2 tablespoons of either jojoba or sweet almond oil. Mix together and store in an airtight container such as soap dispenser.”
    This homemade face wash should be fine for daily use, but if you notice any skin irritation, scale back use to every other day or every couple of days.

  2. 2. Get Glowing Skin with Tea Tree Oil

    Thought you left blotchy skin behind in your teens only to have it resurface in your thirties? You’re not alone, girl. Worry not! You can get rid of bumps and clogged pores by making your own detoxifying tea tree oil face mask.
    To make the mask, “mix about 3 tablespoons of a cosmetic grade clay such as bentonite, french green, or white kaolin clay, 3½ tablespoons of activated charcoal ([which] can be found at health food stores or online), about 5 drops of tea tree oil, and enough water to make a medium-thick paste,” says Epling.
    Leave the mask on your the skin for about 15 minutes and then rinse with lukewarm water. Although tea tree oil is soothing, Epling warns that your face may be red after you remove the mask because clay draws impurities to the surface of the skin. Make sure to treat your skin to a sweet moisturizer to calm any irritation you might feel after.

  3. 3. Zap Zits

    According to a 1990 study conducted by the department of dermatology at the Royal Prince Alfred Hospital in New South Wales, Australia, tea tree oil was found to be just as effective as benzoyl peroxide at treating mild to moderate acne. The study found that although a 5 percent tea tree oil gel treatment did take a little longer to work than a 5 percent benzoyl gel, fewer overall side effects were seen in patients who used tea tree oil.
    To use tea tree oil as an acne spot treatment, dilute a couple of drops of tea tree oil with about 30 drops of witch hazel and swab on pimples with a cotton ball. Only dab the mixture on once per day. It’s tempting to try to clear zits fast, but overuse of tea tree oil can dry out your skin, ultimately causing more zits to pop up as your body produces more oils to combat dry skin.

  4. 4. Tea Tree Oil Cleans Your Tools

    If you wear makeup, your brushes might be the culprit for any small breakouts you’ve experienced, especially if you don’t clean them regularly. Get bacteria and old makeup off your tools by cleaning your brushes regularly. Lucky for you, you don’t need to invest in a fancy brush-cleaning solution.
    To clean your makeup brushes, mix a few drops of tea tree oil, about a cup of hot water, and a drop of dish soap together. Swirl your brushes in the mixture, then gently rub the brush on a clean cloth. Repeat this process until your brush rubs clean against the cloth. To keep skin healthy, clean your brushes at least once a week.

    5. Fight Flakes with Tea Tree Oil

    No, not your flaky ex, which tea tree oil unfortunately can’t cure.
    We’re talking about dandruff.
    Dandruff has a variety of causes, including dry or oily skin (seriously), not shampooing often enough, or even fungal infections. A doctor can tell you what’s causing your dandruff, but if your pesky white flakes are being caused by a fungus, tea tree oil’s antiseptic properties make it ideal for fighting fungal dandruff.
    “You can replace dandruff shampoo, which typically contains many harsh chemicals, by adding it to a homemade shampoo recipe of your choosing or adding several drops to a gentle or natural shampoo,” says Epling.

  5. 6. The Fungus Among Us

    “Tea tree oil is also an anti-inflammatory, so it calms down the irritated immune response to something like a foot fungus and takes down potential swelling,” Nayak says. “In using tea tree oil for fungal infections you can either make a powder with dried ground tea tree leaves (i.e., a foot powder) or put a few drops in water as a foot soak or oil as a liniment.”
    In addition to treating fungal foot infections, tea tree oil can be used to treat fungal nail infections. To treat a nail fungus with tea tree oil, mix a couple of drops of tea tree oil with the carrier oil of your choice in a dropper bottle (which makes the solution easier to apply to your nails). Place a drop at the cuticle and rub into your nail daily.
    But Nayak cautions that you should always visit a doctor if you think you have a fungal infection of any kind before self-treating with tea tree oil.
    “It’s of course important to rule out more serious issues when dealing with a suspected fungal skin infection. In immunocompromised patients—such as the very young or the elderly—a fungal skin infection has a higher risk of spreading and becoming systemic, which is a much more serious issue, requiring aggressive treatment.”

Categories
Conscious Beauty Lifestyle

The Benefits Of Witch Hazel (And How To Use It Daily)

All it takes is a few scrolls through Pinterest and you’re bombarded: You need to be using witch hazel right now! Witch hazel could change your life!
While dabbing a little bit of this naturally-occurring astringent on your acne doesn’t exactly rank up there with weddings, births, and funerals on the “life changing” charts, there’s no question that witch hazel—a centuries-old wellness pick—is making its way back into our wellness routines, and for good reason. The uses for witch hazel are numerous, and as scientists and skincare junkies alike are finding promise in natural remedies for everything from acne treatment to easing inflamed skin, it makes sense that witch hazel is topping the list of favorite ingredients.
But before you hit the drugstore (or Amazon) for a bottle of holistic astringent, is witch hazel the right fix for what ails you? Wondering what the top uses for witch hazel are?
We talked to the experts about the good, the bad, and everything in between!

First of all, what is witch hazel?

Witch hazel has gained its spot in the zeitgeist in no small part because many of us are trying to ditch beauty products with ingredient lists chock full of complex chemicals we can hardly pronounce and move toward more natural options instead.
In 2015 alone, natural beauty lines grew by by 7 percent in the U.S., compared to a 2 percent rise in the overall beauty market that same year, and natural wellness options are only expected to become more of a presence as time goes on.
The good news if you’re after holistic remedies: It doesn’t get much more natural than witch hazel. That’s because the liquid isn’t cooked up in a factory. It’s actually derived directly from the witch hazel plant.
Common witch hazel or American witch hazel is actually a large woody shrub or tree, Dayna Valenti-Gaeta, community horticulture program coordinator at Cornell Cooperative Extension in Sullivan County, New York, tells HealthyWay. Dubbed Hamamelis viginiana, the tree is native to the eastern half of North America, and you’ll find them growing out in the wild anywhere from Quebec down to Texas and Florida.
“It is found in the understory, in areas where there is acidic soil (near pine, oak, maple, hickory, and wild blueberries) and part sun/light shade,” Valenti-Gaeta explains. “The shrub/tree can grow to about 15 to 20 feet tall and wide.”  

What Science Says About the Benefits of Witch Hazel

“Witch hazel has been used extensively throughout history,” says Tanya Kormeili, MD, a board certified dermatologist from Santa Monica, California. “It contains chemicals called tannins, which can help with inflammation, to reduce swelling, help repair broken skin, and fight infections such as bacteria. ”
It’s not just years of use that points to witch hazel’s effectiveness, either. Scientists have dug into whether or not witch hazel is therapeutic, and the results have been largely positive. In one study out of Kingston University, London, for example, researchers observed “significant” anti-inflammatory effects of witch hazel. That study was funded in part by Neal’s Yard, a British company that sells organic natural health and beauty products, but researchers declared no competing interests and the potential uses of witch hazel (and proof of it working) don’t end there.
Another study published in a 2007 edition of the European Journal of Pediatrics determined that hamamelis ointment, a product made with witch hazel, is an effective and safe treatment for minor skin injuries, diaper dermatitis, or localized inflammation of skin in children under age 11. Yet another study that dates back to 1998—when it was published in the journal Dermatology—shows the effectiveness of a lotion made from the witch hazel plant in treating redness of the skin.
In light of these and other studies, it’s clear witch hazel has a wide variety of scientifically legitimated uses. Ultimately, according to celebrity facialist Ildi Pekar, it’s the versatility of witch hazel that makes it so popular.

Witch Hazel Uses You Should Try

1. Treat acne.

Witch hazel is a naturally occurring astringent that constricts blood vessels, which in turn reduces swelling and inflammation. When used as a toner, witch hazel can reduce inflammation caused by acne and decrease excess oil. Using a formula made without alcohol won’t give you the overly dry, tight feeling some people have come to expect of alcohol-based toners.
Pekar suggests using witch hazel after you wash your face to help further clean the skin topically from bacteria and reduce inflammation associated with breakouts you may be experiencing. Grab a cotton ball, soak it in the liquid, and swab your most acne-prone areas.
“It can be a little tricky because there are different forms of acne, and some may not benefit from alcohol in witch hazel,” she warns, in which case she recommends using a mineral-rich toner instead.

2. Soothe sunburn.

Need to take the sting out of that sunburn? Add a few drops of witch hazel to a squirt of aloe vera gel and smooth the concoction over your skin. The aloe will cool you down while the witch hazel will work on the inflammation. Some burn ointments even mix the two, so check your labels: You might find a two-for-one deal in the drugstore aisles.
[related article_ids=1001303]

3. Remove make-up.

Put down those expensive, disposable make-up removing sheets and grab a washcloth or paper towel that’s been soaked in witch hazel instead. The tannins in witch hazel can help dissolve debris and oil buildup on the skin according to Anca Tchelebi, MD, a dermatologist at Park Avenue Medical Spa in Armonk, New York.

4. Take the puffy out.

If you’ve been crying, suffering through allergy season, or didn’t get enough sleep, run a cotton pad soaked in witch hazel over your puffy eyelids (making sure to keep your eyes closed to avoid irritation). The astringent in witch hazel helps to constrict the blood vessels, Tchelebi says, which will help return your eyes to their less-puffy state. Some products, like the Detox Eye Roller from First Aid Beauty, package that witch hazel hit right into a roller to ensure easy application.

5. Take the sting out of hemorrhoids.

If you’ve tucked into a box of TUCKS pads to get some relief from the burning and itching of hemorrhoids, you may have noticed the brand boasts its active ingredient is—you guessed it—witch hazel.
If you’ve ever heard of models and big stars using these medicated pads on their faces, well, now you know why! The witch hazel is what helps bring down puffiness in the face, making them red carpet–ready (and you ready to face the day).  

6. Alleviate postpartum pain.

You can use those same TUCKS pads to get after-birth relief. Seriously. Keep your pads in the freezer, pull one out, and gently dab your undercarriage when the stinging is too much. You can also soak a giant maxi pad in alcohol-free witch hazel and freeze it before use. Stick it in the mesh underwear you get at the hospital and you’ll feel instant relief.

7. Take the itch out of bug bites.

Witch hazel is said to have been used hundreds of years ago to soothe the itch of mosquito and other bug bites, and that hasn’t changed. A little dab’ll do ya for this treatment. Resist scratching and allow the tannins to tackle the inflammation and cut down on the reaction to the allergens left behind by an insect’s bite.  

8. Coax an ingrown hair out from under your skin.

If you get painful red bumps on your bikini line after you’ve visited your waxer, you may have ingrown hairs that are trying to make their way out of the skin. Kormeili tells us you can use witch hazel to treat these spots.
The witch hazel will both relieve the inflammation and help kill the bacteria that’s causing it, allowing the trapped hair to work its way to the surface. Apply once a day to the bump, allowing the witch hazel to air dry.

Witchy Myths: The Witch Hazel Uses That Don’t Work

It sounds like witch hazel is a miracle of nature, doesn’t it? Maybe those Pinterest headlines aren’t exaggerating, after all.
And it’s true: Witch hazel is amazing.
But there are a few popular “101 witch hazel uses” pins you may come across that you’ll want to avoid according to dermatologists.
The biggest offender on these lists? No matter what you’ve read, there is no such thing as “natural” sun protection, and using witch hazel in place of sunscreen is absolutely not going to keep you skin cancer-free, so don’t even bother.  
“Some witch hazel enthusiasts claim that due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties witch hazel can be applied to the skin before sun exposure to prevent sunburn or after sun exposure to prevent sun damage,” Tchelebi says. “This is complete junk science, and as a cosmetic physician who sees the devastating effects of sun damage on the health and appearance of people’s skin, these types of claims make me go crazy!”
While witch hazel might help soothe your sunburn, it will not protect you from the sun’s damaging rays, and what you do with it afterward will not reverse any damage that the UV exposure has done to your shoulders, chest, face, or any other skin.  
“I would advise my patients to rely only on sunscreens containing both UVB and UVA protection to protect their skin from the damaging effects of the sun,” Tchelebi says. In other words: You should never rely on witch hazel for sun protection. Stick to sunscreens that are well-rated and scientifically-backed.
Another sobering reality for those who tout the endless uses of witch hazel? Even the promises of inflammation fighting and bacteria killing can come with a dose of reality for those with sensitive skin according to Kormeili.
“ Some patients are very allergic to this plant,” she warns. “Sometimes when applied to open sores or skin it can cause severe irritation as well.
Like most wellness routines, it’s always good to consult with your doctor before adding witch hazel to your arsenal. They may advise you test a small patch of the skin before using it in larger quantities just so you can see if your skin reacts negatively. They may also say you’re not a candidate for witch hazel use based on past skin issues.
Then again, it may get a thumbs up from your doc, in which case it’s time to scope out the best product for your needs!

Witch hazel should you use? Go for the good stuff.

Of course, even if you’ve gotten the all clear from your doctor to use witch hazel in your skincare routine, you want to make sure the witch hazel you buy (or make!) is the best product for your skin and desired usage.
As one of the only medicinal plants approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as a non-prescription drug ingredient, there’s a plethora of witch hazel options on the market, and all of them claim to be the best. So how do you choose?
There is no regulation from the FDA regarding how much pure plant witch hazel goes into a bottle, Kormeili warns, so you need to read ingredient labels carefully. Many witch hazel solutions on the market are largely alcohol or formaldehyde.
Because alcohols can be drying and irritating, it’s best to steer clear of these products. It’s also important to check labels for the inclusion of “fragrance,” which can cause allergic reactions—especially for people with sensitive skin.
Wondering which witch hazel products we love to use? Here are our witch hazel recommendations:

Thayer’s Original Witch Hazel Toner

This alcohol-free toner is made with aloe vera so it will act as an astringent on acne-prone areas without drying you out or leaving your skin irritated. Use this cult fave toner on a clean face to tighten your pores and refresh your skin. It comes in plenty of scents: original, rose petal (our favorite!), lavender, lemon, cucumber, and even an unscented variety.

Ahava Witch Hazel Hand Cream

If your hands are feeling tight and dry, use this witch hazel cream to soothe and heal them. Since witch hazel is naturally anti-inflammatory, it can calm ongoing issues. Plus, Ahava claims the Dead Sea minerals in the cream “help restore essential moisture.”

Herbivore Rose Hibiscus Coconut Water Hydrating Face Mist

This face mist is the perfect addition to your skincare routine. Incorporate it between using your cleanser and applying your moisturizer. The coconut and aloe leaf waters will moisturize while the witch hazel will tighten your skin.

Dr. Jart+ Water Replenishment Cotton Mask

Who doesn’t love a good face mask? K-beauty giant DR. JART+ has found a wonderful use for witch hazel in this cotton mask that hydrates and provides moisture.
Eager to find the perfect witch hazel product for you? Check out our favorite finds from Thayers, Ahava, Herbivore, and Dr. Jart:

Do-It-Yourself Witch Hazel

The manufacturers of witch hazel products are interested in the bark and twigs of the witch hazel tree. That’s the stuff you’ll want if you’re making your own, too, Valenti-Gaeta says.
“The bark or small twigs are macerated and made into mulch…and boiled to make a witch hazel tonic,” she explains. “You have to boil any woody materials (including roots when making teas and tinctures). Vodka or straight grain alcohol can be added to make the witch hazel shelf stable.” 
If you want to get really DIY with it, the Farmer’s Almanac even offers up tips on how to make your own witch hazel:

  • For a water-based witch hazel decoction, place the chopped twigs and scraped bark into a stainless-steel pot; cover completely with water (use distilled water if you have heavily treated water), bring the contents to a boil, then cover the pot and reduce heat and simmer for at least half an hour. Keep the twigs covered with water. Set in a cool place overnight, then strain into glass jar. Refrigerate and use within a few days.
  • To make a long-lasting alcohol tincture, place chopped bark and twigs in a large glass jar and cover with vodka. Let it sit in a dark, cool place for six weeks, then strain and store, covered, in a glass jar, also in a cool, dark place. To use, dilute a couple of tablespoons in half a cup of water, soak clean gauze, washcloth, or cotton balls in the mixture, and apply.

If all that macerating and boiling sounds like a lot of work, well, it is. But it’s worth it, says Kormeili. Of course it’s also perfectly acceptable to leave hard work to the manufacturers and just pick up a new bottle of witch hazel when you need one!
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Categories
Conscious Beauty

Makeup Artists Reveal The Industry's Most Important Secrets

With makeup, you don’t always get what you pay for.
You can spend hundreds of dollars on beauty products—and believe us, we’ve been there—but that doesn’t guarantee professional results. That’s not just our opinion, either. One 2016 study showed that professionally-applied cosmetics affected appearance much more than self-applied cosmetics did (no word on whether that study was published in the journal No Duh).
To find out how makeup artists get a flawless, camera-ready look, we decided to reach out to a few professionals (naturally). As it turns out, we’re not so much buying the wrong products as we are using them the wrong way.

Whether you’re a makeup newbie or you already have a talent for your contour palette, these tips can make a big difference. For instance…

Preparation is key.

Before we get to the experts, we’ve got to talk about moisturizing. Think of your face as a canvas: You can have all the best products in the world, but if your skin is dry and dull, you’re going to have issues.
Of course, this won’t come as shocking news to most makeup aficionados. However, while there are hundreds of moisturizers, toners, and serums on the market, there’s one product that’s absolutely indispensable: sunscreen.

When you go outside sans sunscreen, you’re not just risking a sunburn. The Skin Cancer Foundation estimates that 90 percent of skin aging is caused by exposure to the sun. People who use sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher everyday have fewer signs of skin aging than those who don’t sport the ‘screen.
You might not like the oily feel of sunscreen, especially on your face. The good news is that many brands make face-specific sunscreens that won’t leave an oily base. You can also purchase makeup foundations that have sunscreen built in.

If you want professional results, prime your face.

“Always use a primer,” says Marissa Hohner, makeup artist and owner of Sugar Skull Makeup in Chicago. “Primers allow your foundation and makeup to have a long-wear application on your skin throughout the day.”
If you’re not using a primer, you’re probably not getting the results you want. Primers even out your skin tone, minimize the appearance of pores, and help smooth out skin imperfections. They also give your makeup something to hold on to, ensuring a better all-day look.
If you want your look to last, you can’t skip this step.

“Allow your primer to seep into your skin for a couple of minutes until it feels a bit tacky to the touch,” says Hohner. “This will ensure a longer-lasting wear for your foundation throughout the day.”
That works because many primers use silicone-based polymers like dimethicone, the same types of silicones found in hair conditioners. Just as you let your hair conditioner sit in place before you wash it out, you’ll need to give your primer some time to work.

Patience is key. Primer takes time. If you rush through and refuse to wait, you won’t be getting better-looking makeup, you’ll just waste expensive primer.
Incidentally, dimethicone-free primers are available, and they’re sometimes a better choice for people with acne and other skin conditions. If you’re noticing a reaction from your primer (or any other cosmetic product), speak with your dermatologist.

There are a few key tricks to using foundation and concealer.

After your face is moisturized and primed, it’s time for the foundation and concealer.
We could easily write an entire piece on foundation and concealer, as there are dozens of high-quality products on the market. To get professional results, you’ll need to do some experimentation to figure out what works best for you and your skin. It’s also important to decide on a look and matching your application to achieve the desired outcome. One pro-ready option: Switching to a beauty sponge.
“Pressing your foundation and concealer into your skin with a damp beauty sponge will give you more coverage and an airbrushed look,” Nashville makeup artist Corrine Towery tells HealthyWay.

As with everything in the world of cosmetics, moderation is key.
“Don’t overdo the foundation,” says Hohner. “If you cake on too much foundation, your skin can look muddy and cakey. A buildable foundation will allow you to start with a thin layer and then add upon that layer with additional product … in trouble areas that may need more coverage.”
In other words, take your time. Hey, we’re starting to notice a pattern here.

Bake your face.

No, this doesn’t involve any kitchen appliances. When you need your makeup to last all day, it’s time to “bake.” That term has been frequently used in the drag community for years—and, by and large, their makeup looks fantastic—but recently, we’ve seen it pop up in more mainstream outlets.

To “bake your face,” you’ll cover your foundation and concealer with a translucent powder and let it set for five to 10 minutes. The heat from your face will set the makeup, creating a creaseless, flawless, long-lasting look. Pretty cool, right?
Baking is especially helpful for treating any areas that are prone to wrinkles.
https://twitter.com/yurilamasbella/status/957452870181367808
“By using a light-weight, loose, translucent powder to set your under-eye concealer, you will prevent your concealer from creasing and accentuating any crow’s feet or fine lines under and around the eye,” says Hohner.
It takes a lot of time and effort to look great. Don’t risk any breaks or cracks.

There’s a trick to making your lips pop.

Just as you need to prepare your skin before applying makeup, you need to make sure that your lips are in great condition before reaching for the lipstick.
“Any flakiness should be removed prior to a lipstick application,” Artistic Director for Osmosis Colour Mineral Cosmetics Alejandro Falcon tells HealthyWay. “[After moisturizing], use a lip liner to shape and outline your lip area. I usually fill in the lip liner halfway inside the lips for a more precise look.”

If you want your lips to appear fuller, use a little bit of highlighter.
“Grab your favorite liquid illuminator and apply it to your cupid’s bow vertically,” says Caitlin Picou, makeup artist and owner of Kismet Cosmetics. “This makes your top lip pop. Take it further by applying the same illuminator to the inner parts of your lips, as well.”

Want someone to get lost in your eyes?

What’s that saying…the windows are the eyes of the house? It’s something like that.
In any case, you can command a room with your wicked winged liner and flawless smokey eye with this foolproof eye makeup process.
“Start with a cream eyeshadow base to intensify the staying power and the pigments in the shadow,” says makeup artist and founder of Formula Z Cosmetics, Zach Dishinger. “After you apply the base, line your eyes with eyeliner and blend it on top of the cream base. Next, move on to your powdered shadows.”

Mascara can take your look to the next level, but it’s not always easy to apply. The brushes can be unwieldy, and if you say that you’ve never accidentally poked yourself in the eye, you’re either remarkably coordinated or lying.
“Place a finger or a makeup sponge behind the lash to prevent the mascara from smudging on your face or eye area,” says Dishinger.
What if you make a mistake and apply too much? “Let the mascara dry completely,” Towery says. “Once it’s dry, take a clean Q-tip and wipe it off. It won’t smudge and ruin your makeup.”

When your favorite tube has run out, always save the brush.
“Keep the wand and use it with cheap mascara to save some money,” says Towery. “Mascara is mascara; the wand is what makes the difference.”

Some cosmetics are remarkably versatile.

“If there are colors you don’t use in your contour and highlight palettes, use them as eyeshadows,” says Towery.

Pretty much any cosmetic can work as a highlighter, although you’ll want to check before putting a product near your eyes or lips if it’s not designed for that express purpose. We’re big fans of the eyeshadow-as-lip-liner movement, but some intense colors have mineral additives that we’d rather not consume accidentally.

Finally, don’t assume that the most expensive brands are worth the money.

As we mentioned earlier, you don’t need to buy the most expensive beauty products to see the best results. Cheap mascaras are essentially the same as the expensive ones (other than the brush), and you can easily find decent makeup for $10 or less.

“Drugstore products are a great way to save money. Not everything is amazing, but there are hidden gems,” says Towery. “Instead of having trial and error and wasting money on random products, look up reviews and tutorials on YouTube on products to see what to buy. Some of my holy grail products are from the drugstore.”
Here’s more on drugstore beauty products vs. their high-end counterparts.

Categories
Conscious Beauty Lifestyle

Jade Rolling: An Ancient Beauty Practice With A Star-Studded Following

You stay up to date with the latest creams and serums, hoping to keep your skin looking radiant throughout your thirties and beyond. You exfoliate, moisturize, and do everything else that’s supposed to lead to healthy, glowing skin, and you’ve probably developed a routine that works well for you.
However, there’s something you may be curious about adding into your regimen: jade rolling. This ancient beauty practice is said to have some pretty impressive health and beauty benefits, and it definitely has a high-profile following. Here’s what you need to know about jade rolling, the ancient beauty trend that is having a decidedly 21st-century comeback.

What is jade rolling?

Jade rolling is pretty simple: You use a small roller made of jade to massage your face and neck.
Some proponents of jade rolling follow a product-forward regimen that involves washing and exfoliating your face, then applying your favorite mask or moisturizer. Using the jade roller, you massage the mask or moisturizer into your skin for about two minutes.
Others opt for a cooling treatment they say can de-puff and de-bloat the face and recommend storing the roller in the fridge or freezer between use for optimal results.

Why jade?

According to the Gemological Institute of America, jade was used for thousands of years in ancient Central American, New Zealand, and Chinese weaponry, tools, and ornaments. Today, estheticians and manufacturers of jade rollers say the practice builds on the claims of Chinese medicine regarding jade’s ability to promote healing, draw toxins from the body, and relax the nervous system.
While these claims aren’t upheld by Western medicine, those who are passionate about jade rolling are adamant that rollers should be made of authentic jade.

The Who’s Who of Jade Rolling

Although jade rolling might be new to you, some of Hollywood’s most picture-perfect faces are making the most of the technique. Celebrity aesthetician Liz Kennedy told E! Online that she uses jade rolling to help models keep their skin looking cool and refreshed, which explains why Miranda Kerr, Behati Prinsloo, and Dree Hemingway all say that jade rolling is part of their regular beauty routine.
Alicia Keys is a jade rolling convert too. In 2016, Keys’ makeup artist, Dotti, told W, “I stick a jade roller in ice, so it’s basically freezing when I roll it over her skin. I really, really work into all those areas where I want blood and water and energy brought to the surface. It brings her skin to life, it practically makes her skin say, ‘Hi. I love you.’”

Other than “I love you” skin, what are the benefits of jade rolling?

According to Jayde Covenant, a spa manager and esthetician, massaging your face with a jade roller increases blood flow, which can give you that nice, healthy glow you’re after. Covenant told Well + Good senior editor Erin Hanafy that rolling also activates your lymphatic system, which helps drain fluid from your tissues, meaning it can detox and de-puff your face. After using a jade roller, your face may look tighter and less wrinkled, and who wouldn’t want that in exchange for just a few minutes of effort?
Lifestyle and wellness blogger Gena Min shares that jade rolling is more than just a beauty trend for her, saying that after complications related to Botox treatments, it has given her relief from headaches, sinus issues, and breakouts. Others claim that the smooth, cool jade can help with headaches when you use it on your forehead, eyelids, and temples.

Buying and Using a Jade Roller

So you’re ready to give jade rolling a try. The first step is to purchase a jade roller, which you’ll likely have to do online. When you’re shopping, remember that it’s important to get a roller that’s made with authentic jade if you’re after the benefits associated with the gemstone. Some of the cheaper rollers you’ll find might actually be glass that’s been colored to look like jade.
Authentic jade rollers typically cost between $25 and $90, depending on where you purchase them. Be sure to read the reviews to see what others have said about the roller you’re considering. If they’ve had a positive experience, chances are you will too!
When your roller arrives, you may want to pop it in the fridge or freezer before your first massage. While you don’t have to commit to fancy patterns, Min suggests this technique on her blog, Gena Min Wellness:

On clean skin, starting from the center of your forehead, use the large roller and roll slowly towards the ears. Repeat about 6 times over the same area. Use the small roller under the eyes and go from the corner of the eye to the ear. Same thing with cheeks. Start from the middle of your face and roll outwards. Roll from the chin area to your jaw and up to the ears. For the neck, start from the top and roll downwards towards the collar bone. You don’t need to apply any pressure. Just use the weight of the jade roller.

Keep in mind that you can incorporate your favorite cleansers, masks, and moisturizers into your personalized jade rolling ritual as well—we love Mario Badescu’s Vitamin C Serum followed up by Shiseido’s Firming Massage Mask.

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Categories
Conscious Beauty Lifestyle

The Beauty Products From 2017 We’re Still Loving, And What’s Next For 2018

It seems like new makeup and skincare products never stop rolling out onto store shelves, and 2017 was no exception. With something different hyped up every week, though, how are you supposed to separate what really works from what doesn’t? Fortunately, the shining stars of the beauty world were clear in 2017, and 2018 is on track to be just as great.

Here are our favorite discoveries from 2017.

Watermelon Glow Sleeping Mask

A true sign of a product that people just can’t get enough of? When it’s sold out again and again. Fortunately, though, you can get your hands on the Watermelon Glow Sleeping Mask now. With a blend of soothing watermelon extract and hydrating hyaluronic acid, this mask is well known for softening and plumping skin as you sleep. And alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) work overnight to exfoliate your skin to leave it smooth and fresh all day long.

Sephora

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GLAMGLOW Firming Glitter Mask

Face masks definitely hit their stride in 2017, and GLAMGLOW became known as the brand to turn to for a mask that you can paint on and peel off. They even stepped up their game with a firming peel-off mask that’s packed with glitter yet still provides the same benefits GLAMGLOW’s masks are known for. Social media users love this one for taking glittery skincare selfies. So tighten and tone your skin—and take a few shots for Instagram while you do it—with this mask that’s just as fun as it is effective.

Sephora

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Fenty Beauty Pro Filt’r Soft Matte Longwear Foundation

There weren’t many beauty launches in 2017 that were as highly anticipated as that of Fenty Beauty by Rihanna, and the brand definitely didn’t disappoint. One of the most coveted items of the collection was the Pro Filt’r Soft Matte Longwear Foundation, a medium- to full-coverage foundation designed to look soft, smooth, and silky on the skin. The best part? The brand is inclusive of a wide range of skin tones; the foundation was released in a whopping 40 shades right off the bat!

Fenty Beauty

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NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer

Looking for the next best thing after the release of Tarte Shape Tape? Look no further than the Radiant Creamy Concealer from NARS, a full-coverage concealer perfect for covering, correcting, highlighting, and even contouring. The formula isn’t just meant to cover imperfections, though. Packed with vitamin E, grape seed extract, and more, this concealer is meant to nourish the skin while it sculpts and corrects.

Sephora

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Anastasia Beverly Hills Modern Renaissance Eyeshadow Palette

Anastasia Beverly Hills is a powerhouse brand, and the Modern Renaissance Eyeshadow Palette was one of their most anticipated releases. This is the perfect palette for both day and night looks, with 14 shades ranging from creamy neutrals to bright berry tones and even a deep chocolate brown. Complete with a mirror and a dual-ended brush, it’s the perfect versatile palette for taking on the go to create any look.

Sephora

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Stila Glitter and Glow Liquid Eyeshadow

If you’ve been on the hunt for the perfect glitter eyeshadow without the mess, the Stila Glitter and Glow Liquid Eyeshadow is what you’ve been waiting for. The creamy formula is simple to apply—thanks to the fluffy applicator—and it’s easy to blend out once it’s on the eye, so you can combine with other shadows for a flawless look. The best part is that it’s lightweight, giving you a heavy dose of glitz and shine without the heavy feeling. Not a glitter fan? Check out the new Stila Shimmer and Glow Liquid Eyeshadow.

Sephora

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Hourglass Ambient Lighting Palette

Highlighting wasn’t a new phenomenon in 2017, but Hourglass definitely upped the game when it released the Ambient Lighting Palette. These powders were designed not only to catch the light but to diffuse and soften the way it looks when it hits your skin, giving you the perfect lit-from-within look with just a few swipes. With three universally flattering colors, this palette helps to highlight the skin in a way that filters out harsh lights, giving you a soft, refined glow.

Amazon

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Cover FX Custom Enhancer Drops

There are some who prefer a glow that can be seen from outer space, and for those individuals, there are the Custom Enhancer Drops from Cover FX. The drops allow you to customize your glow, using a little for a subtle shine or a lot for a look that gives off the vibe of liquid metal on your skin. Use the drops alone or mixed in your foundation or body lotion for an all-over radiance that’ll catch the light…and maybe even an eye or two.

Sephora

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Fenty Beauty Stunna Lip Paint

It’s no secret that Fenty Beauty has been slaying the game ever since its launch, but the hype isn’t just about the foundation. If you’ve been looking for the perfect red lip product, look no further than Fenty’s Stunna Lip Paint in the shade Uncensored, a universal red that’s made for any skin tone. With one-swipe coverage and a 12-hour wear time, it’s the ultimate smooth liquid lip you’ll turn to again and again.

Sephora

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Bite Beauty Agave Lip Mask

When your lips need a little love thanks to all of those drying liquid lipsticks—or even just because of the cold weather—Bite Beauty has you covered with their Agave Lip Mask. It’s the ultimate lip balm, packed with jojoba oil and agave nectar. And did we mention the brand is 100 percent dedicated to using only food-grade ingredients in its products? Take it with you for all-day use or apply it as an overnight lip mask for soothed, soft lips anytime.

Sephora

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So, what’s next in 2018?

Though the new year has just gotten started, there are already some standout products in the beauty world.

Jade Roller

Looking for smoother, tighter, de-puffed skin without taking the time to put on a mask? Though jade rollers aren’t a new invention, they’re definitely having their moment in 2018, and it’s not hard to see why. Proponents claim that jade rollers can help you improve circulation, reduce puffiness, and smooth fine lines.

Nordstrom

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NARS Radiant Longwear Foundation

Hot on the heels of their Radiant Creamy Concealer is NARS’ Radiant Longwear Foundation, a medium- to full-coverage foundation with a 16-hour wear time. Meant to stay put through anything, the formula is designed to smooth and perfect the skin, all while giving it a fresh and natural look.

NARS Cosmetics

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Kat Von D Studded Kiss Crème Lipstick

Say hello to your new favorite lipstick, the Studded Kiss Crème Lipstick from Kat Von D. Packed with pigment, these lipsticks are designed to provide one-swipe coverage with a creamy, light feel on the lips. With 40 shades and three finishes, everyone can find their new go-to color.

Sephora

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Hourglass Arch Brow Volumizing Fiber Gel

Looking to fill in your brows without taking the time to really sculpt and carve them out? Hourglass’ new Arch Brow Volumizing Fiber Gel was made to help shape and fluff your brows in the half the time, thanks to its tinted formula that’s packed with microfibers. Just swipe through your natural brow hairs to fill them in and keep them looking fab all day long.

Sephora

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