Better Together: Skin-Care Ingredients That Play Nice with Each Other

When it comes to skin-care ingredients, there are friends and there are foes. Just like us, active skin-care ingredients can be paired together to conquer the world and the peskiest of skin-care concerns, and others can work against each other and wreak havoc on our faces.

When you walk into Sephora, Target, or Walmart, there are what seems like thousands of options to choose from. Some are at a price point that seems too good to be true, and others are so stinking expensive it would take a year to save up for a month’s supply. Instead of spending hundreds of dollars and countless hours purchasing and applying products that promise to answer every skin-care prayer you’ve ever asked for with little to no results, try pairing potent, powerhouse ingredients that work together to get the job done.

We touched base with NYC dermatologists and got the scoop on how to cocktail the perfect dynamic duo to meet your skin-care needs.

Dull, Lackluster Complexion

There are days—whether it’s due to stress, lack of sleep, inadequate water consumption, or poor skin-care habits—when our skin needs a pick-me-up. While returning to a regular skin-care routine can suffice, an addition of active ingredients can revitalize and give skin a boost (think of it as a push-up bra for your face).

“For dull skin, a combination of glycolic acid and vitamin C can leave skin smooth and refreshed,” shares Marina Peredo, MD, NYC dermatologist. “Glycolic acid exfoliates dead skin cells, and vitamin C helps to brighten the skin.” If you don’t incorporate these ingredients into your skin-care routine regularly, an easy and inexpensive fix to this problem is finding a gentle face scrub with these active ingredients to revitalize your complexion. Gently exfoliate once or twice a week to slough away dead skin and reveal a natural glow.

L’Oreal Paris Revitalift Bright Reveal Brightening Daily Scrub Cleanser

L’Oreal

Instead of opting for two unique products, use this budget-friendly cleansing scrub, which infuses both active ingredients, glycolic acid and vitamin C, to keep your complexion radiant.

$7 at Target

Acne-/Blemish-Prone Skin

If breakouts pop up here and there or never seem to go away, a blend of dermatologist-recommended ingredients can not only treat existing pimples but help prevent them as well.

“Acne is multifactorial,” shares Kimberly Jerdan, MD, cosmetic dermatologist. “Not only do you need to combat the bacteria, but you also must normalize the skin cell turnover.” Dr. Jerdan recommends pairing benzoyl peroxide and retinoid to tackle stubborn breakouts.

PCA Skin BPO 5% Cleanser

PCA Skin

$38 at PCA Skin

Cleansing acne-prone skin with this benzoyl-peroxide-infused cleanser will help eliminate acne-causing bacteria while calming and treating existing breakouts.

PCA Skin Intensive Brightening Treatment 0.5% Pure Retinol Night

This gentle retinol formula will stimulate cell turnover and improve discoloration and excess oils and will treat acne and acne scarring while you snooze.

$109 at PCA Skin

Another popular duo when combating acne breakouts is glycolic and salicylic acids. “A combo of glycolic and salicylic acids is like a mini chemical peel at home,” shares Dr. Peredo. These potent acids will gently exfoliate and relieve inflammation without drying out your skin.

M-61 PowerSpot Pads

M-61

$24 at Blue Mercury

A simple swipe of this pad will help cleanse pores and reduce those stubborn red pimples with a blend of salicylic acid, glycolic acid, and witch hazel.

Hyperpigmentation

While there are many products and treatments that claim to lighten dark spots, you may find yourself with a basket full of $100 creams that don’t seem to be doing the trick. If an even complexion is your skin goal, you might find that most dermatologists recommend a lightening agent called hydroquinone.

“Hydroquinone is a tried and true ingredient and organic compound used to correct hyperpigmentation, but most of the time it should be prescribed under the supervision of your dermatologist,” recommends Dr. Peredo. Pairing this brightener with a daily SPF will not only help treat existing spots but protect against future dark spots appearing.

SkinMedica Lytera 2.0 Pigment Correcting Serum

SkinMedica

$154 at Dermstore

Safe for all skin tones, this over-the-counter pigment corrector is dermatologist-approved and aids in lightening even the most stubborn of dark spots.

La Roche-Posay Anthelios 60 Clear Skin Dry Touch Sunscreen SPF 60

La Roche-Posay

A lightweight moisturizing SPF that protects skin from harsh UV rays without leaving a chalky finish.

$19.99 at La Roche-Posay

Aging Skin

Whether you’re in your 20s or you’re legally a senior citizen, slowing down signs of aging is likely on your mind when perfecting your skin-care routine. Decreasing the sight of mostly unwanted visitors, from crows’ feet to fine lines and wrinkles, can be tackled with the proper ingredients.

“Retinoids help combat textural changes, improve signs of skin damage, and brighten your complexion,” says Dr. Jerdan. “When combined with vitamin C and E topicals, antioxidants can better access the skin to fight off extrinsic factors that may be aging the skin.”

The duo of vitamins C and E is often used by skin-care experts to repair skin cells as you age. Vitamin C helps to stimulate collagen for a plump and youthful look and protects skin from environmental pollutants while reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Vitamin E is a powerhouse ingredient that reduces the signs of aging by blocking free radicals from attacking and damaging the skin.

Skinceuticals C E Ferulic

Skinceuticals

$165 at SkinCeuticals

This serum is chock-full of potent ingredients to protect skin from external stresses while reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

9 Surprising Things That Can Keep Your Relationship Healthy

To be in a healthy relationship, we always hear the typical advice related like, listening to your partner more, doing nice things for them, and showing and telling them you love them. While these things are worthy of practice, there are other—less discussed—things that can also keep your relationship healthy. Here are 9 other ways you can keep your relationship healthy.

Spend More Time Apart

Many couples tend to think the more time they spend together, the stronger their relationship will be. That’s not exactly true. “Time apart will help you keep things fresh. By spending at least a few nights a week away from each other you’re guaranteeing that you’ll have new/different things to talk about when you’re together, you’re able to keep what makes you in tact,” explains Paige Berger, dating expert with WhatsYourPrice.com. She adds that spending time apart It will also allow you to calm down and assess a situation after an argument rather than having a blow up.

Laugh at Unexpected Situations

A couple that can laugh together, will likely stay together, says Heidi McBain, a professional counselor for women. “Things that keep you laughing and having fun tougher, are so important to the relationship as a whole,” she says. “Send each other pictures of weird things that are on the internet- weird food from other countries, weird animal pictures, weird faces people are making, etc,” she suggests. Act silly with each other, play games, with the whole goal being to make them laugh out loud.

Get More Sleep—Together

A recent study found that couples who slept less than seven hours a night were more likely to argue in a hostile and negative fashion. More sleep can also lead to more sex, says Chris Brantner, Certified Sleep Science Coach at SleepZoo.com. “If you want to increase your libido, get a full 7-8 hours of sleep. Lack of sleep throws your hormones out of whack and decreases testosterone, which is crucial for both male and female sex drive. It’s also worth noting that for the healthiest relationship, you should go to bed when your partner goes to bed. Research shows that couples whose sleep patterns are mismatched report more conflict, less time in shared activities, and less sex than those who go to bed together,” says Brantner.

MORE: 11 Ways Relationships Change Between Your 20s and 30s 

Set Goals Together

Setting goals together and helping each other achieve them will build a healthy relationship, says Sarah E. Clark, a licensed therapist and relationship expert. “Whether they are long term financial or personal development goals, or short-term projects that you work together to complete, the process of supporting one another to meet your goals will help you build a strong foundation.”

Get Uncomfortable Together

Intimate relationships are all about vulnerability. “If you want a healthy relationship with open communication, you need to be brave enough to let yourself be vulnerable. This includes telling your partner about things that matter to you, saying how you feel, and trying things together that are outside your comfort zone,” explains Clark. Opening up about something painful in the past or revealing something that you’ve never told anyone before can be really healthy for a relationship because it also builds trust.

Have Exercise Dates

Exercising with your partner can create an opportunity to serve as the other’s supporter. “Each person can motivate the other to work harder. Both of you are working, again as a team, towards a similar goal which is to reach a desired level of health,” says Justin Lavelle, chief communications officer and relationship writer for Beenverified.com. “In addition, watching your partner work hard to reach a goal can create feelings of admiration and attraction in you for the other.”

MORE: 18 Worst Mistakes People Commonly Make In Relationships

Start New Traditions and Routines

Perhaps it is an activity you both like or traveling somewhere, but making new traditions or routines that only involve you and your partner, is a great way to keep your relationship healthy. That’s because this tradition centers around what you both like to do, your values, and just being together. Setting new routines also says that you’re both interested in having this tradition carry on for a long time.

Do Chores Together (Seriously)

Completing household chores together creates the feeling that you are functioning as a team. “For example, you can choose to wash and dry the dishes together. One person washes while the other dries. You can choose to do the laundry together. One folds the laundry while the other puts the clothes in the drawers,” suggests Lavelle. “Whatever the task may be, the goal is to come together as partners and complete a task.” The activity will strengthen the idea that you and your partner are a team.

Surprise Them With Little Things

Instead of rushing out the door in the morning, leave them a love note or post it on the door. Pop by their place of work with coffee or fake a meeting. Send them something sweet or kinky to their office. These little surprises will not only keep your relationship healthy, but will keep your partner on their toes, wondering what you’ll pop up with next!

30 Stylish Celebrity Coachella Outfits to Inspire Your Festival Fashion

Coachella 2018 is only a few weeks away. But before you lay down hundreds of dollars for a new SoCal-appropriate wardrobe for the biggest music festival of the year, take a look at what celebrities such as Kendall Jenner, Hailey Baldwin, and Vanessa Hudgens wore. Coachella is unlike any other music festival, soundwise and stylewise, so putting a significant amount of thought into your outfits (and the inevitable Instagrams) is a necessity.

MORE: Celebrity Beauty Looks That’ll Get You Excited for Festival Season

To inspire your Coachella wardrobe, we’ve rounded up the most iconic, drool-worthy, and Instagram-appropriate outfits celebrities have worn to Coachella in recent years. Whether you’re into floral two-pieces or all-suede everything, these celebrity Coachella ensembles will jump-start your creative juices. Take a look at what the stars wore to Coachella, and who knows? Maybe you have a few of their pieces hiding in your closet.

The 10 Best Drugstore Foundations for Dry Skin

If you have dry skin, then you’re probably very familiar with that feeling like you’re throwing moisture into a bottomless well. You can layer on the thickest, richest creams each morning, but by noon, your face feels like it’s cracking every time you smile. To boot, your foundation has settled into all of your dry patches, like a mosaic of sadness. It’s awesome, right? But did you know: There are actually some really fantastic drugstore foundations for dry skin—so you can leave your days of persistent state of flakiness behind you, once and for all.

MORE: The 10 Best Hydrating Makeup Primers for Dry Skin

Hear us out.

The solution is simple, really: All you need to do is find a foundation formula that infuses your skin with hydration as you wear it. And we have the list of the 10 best moisture-packed foundations.

MORE: Why Dry Skin Is So Persistent

Each of these foundations contain skin-soothers and hydrators, like glycerin and hyaluronic acid, and, as a major bonus, they’re all under $30 (with most of them under $15) and found at your local drugstore. Keep reading to find your new favorite foundation, and be prepared not to hate your skin for once.

A version of this article was originally published in December 2016.

It’s Official: Chanel Beauty is Being Sold in Ulta

Updated on March 30, 2018 at 6PM EST:

It’s happened, folks. Chanel is officially in Ulta stores. TrendMood1 reposted a photo from @wendyarangobeauty that showed the full Chanel Beauty display in Westport, Connecticut. From the photo we can see a full set of foundation in liquid and what appears to be powder, but it’s still hard to make out exactly what Ulta is carrying. Arango said it was the best Ulta she’s ever been to and did some “damage.” We’re ready to make some damage, too, let’s go!

Original story published on March 16, 2018 at 5:30PM EST:

We’ve got big news beauty lovers: Chanel Beauty is coming to Ulta.  According to Racked, at Ulta’s 2017 fourth quarter earnings call yesterday, CEO Mary Dillon made the announcement to investors.

“Finally, we’re thrilled to announce a prestigious addition for 2018 — Chanel Beauté. Following our long-standing partnership with Chanel offering their iconic fragrances in hundreds of our stores, we are honored to introduce Chanel Beauté in a small number of Ulta Beauty doors this year. This will be an edited assortment featuring a Chanel-branded makeup station with the first Chanel store opening in Westport, Connecticut in just a few weeks.”

Source: Instagram

MORE: Truth or Fiction: Can Sephora Ban You From Making Excess Returns?

Although some vital information wasn’t revealed, like which stores will be receiving products, how much of the line will be available, if it’ll be online, and pricing, this is a huge step for both companies. Ulta has sold Chanel’s fragrances before, but this time it’ll be the likes of eyeshadows, lipstick and foundation.

As prestigious as Chanel is— being one of the most universally recognized brands— fans are wondering why they chose to partner with Ulta over more luxury-diverse, Sephora. Comments on TrendMood1’s Instagram post from earlier today vary from saying Sephora is “screwed” to “That’s way too high end for Ulta.”

Source: Instagram

MORE: Victoria Beckham Is Launching Her Own Skin-Care Line, and We’re Pumped

And this isn’t the first time the affordable retailer has carried more expensive labels. They’ve recently started offering brands like MAC and Dermalogica, too. Although higher-end products typically don’t sell as well as mass brands, Dillion thinks Chanel will bolster their profits.

In the call to investors she said, “Turning to prestige cosmetics, similar to the third quarter, we saw this category slow from its stellar growth in 2015 and 2016. While certain brands of makeup were very strong, others struggled to comp over significant multi-year increases. We’re optimistic that we can accelerate growth in this category with encouraging newness in the pipeline. We’re currently updating our prestige cosmetics assortment…”

MORE: Serena Williams Is Launching Her Own Cosmetics Company

The word “assortment” could be what fans see as Dillon’s keyword, though. More commenters on TrendMood1 fear that the supplies will be limited, won’t be carried in all stores, and won’t work with their Ulta rewards points. Even more, people are commenting how this partnership is coming at the perfect time for Ulta because it’s a hazy smokescreen that covers the lawsuit allegations claiming they resell used products.

We can’t say Ulta chose this time specifically to announce the collaboration, but it does provide a shift of perspective. All in all, we can’t say we’re not excited to see Chanel in there. Now, if we could just get that drop date.

The Internet Can’t Stop Raving About These beautyblender Hacks

There’s an ancient rumor that if you stand in your bathroom, look into your mirror and whisper “I want perfectly blended makeup” three times, a brand new beautyblender will appear in your hands. Okay, fine, so maybe that’s not true (we obviously wish it were), but it is true that beautyblenders can achieve the perfect blend— you’ll just have to pay for them instead of magically conjuring them up.

The fan-favorite tool has endless makeup possibilities, like applying foundation, concealer, bronzer and even eyeshadow, but it also promises plenty of viral hacks. People have done everything from wrapping it inside a condom to cutting it in half. Now we have two more hacks, but instead of altering how we use the tool, these are about cleansing and storage. 

Stick It in The Microwave

Beautyblenders are great until it comes time to clean them. A little while back, people figured out you can clean the tool like you would an ordinary dish sponge, and just recently the hack has resurfaced on Twitter causing people to go wild. User @Jaycoko_ posted this past week a video of cleaning her beautyblenders in the microwave and has since gotten over 110,000 likes and 40,000 retweets.

https://twitter.com/Jaycoko_/status/978707430098993152

MORE: The 12 Weirdest Celebrity Beauty Hacks We’ve Ever Heard About

She said she simply mixed soap and water in a cup, dropped her blender in and then microwaved for a minute. The result was a fresh and clean blender that we’re guessing also smelled pretty nice. As much as people were excited, others doubted the trick and took it upon themselves to test it. Most of the testers found the hack actually does work, but users who forgot to put their blenders in water learned the hard way that the tool will melt if put in the microwave alone.

https://twitter.com/VTT_torii/status/978797180386463744 https://twitter.com/alanamcsherax/status/979039740128301056 https://twitter.com/its__just_pearl/status/978839610208989184

With how much we use our beautyblenders, this trick is a serious time-saver.

Store It in an Easter Egg

If you were wondering how @Jaycoko_’s blenders got so dirty in the first place, it’s because her foundation and glitter spilled all over her makeup bag. But that’s where this next hack comes in handy. Redditor @negativelyme found a way to keep your blenders stored and safe from contaminants: an Easter egg.

Reddit Makeup Addiction/@negativelyme

In the thread she explained how she intended this storage to be used for traveling purposes only because keeping a damp blender in a confined space (even if there were holes) could lead to bacteria build up. But it’s still a quick, easy fix for traveling which is usually the place where spills, slips and messes occur the most.

MORE: Kim Kardashian Swears By This Beauty Hack to Glow All Over Her Body

To make the hack even better, user @vron991 said, “I’d probably use the bigger part and melt it with a lighter at the bottom so that it’s flat and sits up.” Who said eggs can’t look cute on a dresser? Plus, this way, you wouldn’t need the top of the egg leaving the blender to air dry and avoiding all those unwanted germs.

We love when our two favorite things come together: hacks and beauty. We can’t wait to see what people do with their beautyblenders next.

Bella Hadid’s Wispy New Curtain Bangs Make Us Want to Grow Out Our Hair

To get bangs or not to get bangs. That is the question. On one hand, bangs can look super-chic and elevate your hair and face shape. On the other, they require some serious upkeep and styling time. That’s why celebrities like Jessica Biel, January Jones, and Kirsten Dunst rely on a more low-maintenance take on classic fringe: curtain bangs. Now, the curtain-bangs train is growing after supermodel Bella Hadid debuted a fresh set of feathery fringe on recent outing in Paris, France.

On Thursday, the 21-year-old model stepped out in Paris, where she was photographed with wispy new curtain bangs. Hadid, who kept the rest of her hair in a semi-messy bun secured with a scrunchie, wore her bangs loose and parted down the middle. The feather-light strands, which were partially tucked under Hadid’s slim sunglasses, cascaded down her face, framing her supermodel-like bone structure. She paired her new ‘do with an all-black outfit consisting of wide-leg pants and a coat with a faux-fur collar.

MORE: 17 Celebrity Hairstyles That Show the Transformative Power of Bangs

Photo: Getty Images

Photo: Getty Images

MORE: 15 Celebrities Who Nailed Baby Bangs and Gave Us Major Hair Envy

No word yet on who cut Hadid’s hair, and though the model is known for her many psych-outs (from clip-on bangs to ass-length extensions), it looks like the younger Hadid sister’s new ‘do is here to stay—at least for now. Looking good, Bells.

How to Come Out as Transgender to Someone You’re Dating

Trans people face plenty of the same challenges as cisgender folks, but some of those challenges are extra-tricky. In all relationships, there’s a getting-to-know-you period, when you’re sharing the most vulnerable parts of yourself with the hope of forming a deeper connection. As a transgender woman, there are added layers to go through in order to feel comfortable coming out to a potential partner.

Personally, I’ve always been comfortable going on dates, both pre- and post-surgery, but being open with my physical transition has been hard. Because I’m “passable”—meaning my outsides appear as feminine as my insides feel—I’ve been able to date like any cisgender woman my age; I would even say my dating repertoire matured quicker than most.

When my mom and I decided it was time for me to transition, I was 15 (read more on that time in my life here). By the end of high school I was going on dates with boys my age and men older than I, and presenting full-time as a girl. Once I had gender affirmation surgery at 19, I lost my virginity and that allowed me to start dating more freely. Through dating men of various ages, I learned a lot about the qualities I need my future partner to possess. This guide is based off of over half a decade of dating experience as both a stealth and an open transgender woman.

Be Honest But Careful

Because of the general knowledge on gender identity today, it’s best to be honest about your transition and how far along you are in that journey. This does not mean you have to divulge your gender identity right away, but if you feel you can’t be open with someone from the get-go, they’re probably not right for you. (Silver lining: It’s a quick eliminator.)

Remember that some people can be extremely triggered to learn that they’re on a date (or in bed) with a trans woman, and that your priority must always be to protect yourself physically and emotionally. This is much more important than being fully honest. When I was pre-operational, I didn’t tell my dates that I was transgender. I’ve been in situations that were nerve-wracking but have never been beaten, or worse. That is not the case for all transgender women. In fact, in 2016 there were 23 deaths of trans women in the U.S. due to violence and in 2017 there were at least 28 deaths from gun or other means of violence. Play it safe, and if your gut is telling you the person is not safe to come out to, don’t.

MORE: What to Wear on a Date When You’re a Trans Woman

Tell Them Before You Have Sex

I wouldn’t advise having sex without telling your partner you’re a trans woman. It’s not to avoid “tricking” him or her; rather, it’s because you want to be as comfortable as possible when you have sex, and that goes for everyone. I had to learn this in the past few years. After graduating college, I was still stealth with most people I knew, and only started to become comfortable telling guys my trans status on dates when I moved to New York and then Los Angeles.

Eventually, Try the First-Date Rule

When you’ve reached the point of your transition where you feel physically complete and you want a serious partner, you should be more upfront about being transgender. This still doesn’t mean you have to say anything prior to or on the first date, but personally, I now want guys to know I’m transgender before the end of the first date. I don’t want to waste my time. Being out is scary in a different way: You don’t really know how a date will respond; you can gauge it pretty accurately, but you never know about a person or what sets them off (another cautionary mindset my mom instilled in me), and I consider this when coming out to someone new. 

 

MORE: Why We Need to Fight to Destigmatize Transgender Beauty Standards Now

 

Be Prepared for Initial Defensiveness

Because I date men, and male egos are so sensitive, they feel the need to defend themselves when their manhood is questioned, but being with a trans woman does not make a straight man gay. Period. Trans women are not men, and they are most definitely not gay men. If a trans woman is attracted to men, she’s straight; if she’s attracted to women, she’s a lesbian. It’s that simple.

I’ve found that it takes time for men to wrap their head around all this, and they all react differently. Some get sad about what I “have and will always go through,” some get angry and back away; some ghost me when they find out via Instagram or my writing; some want to learn more but not continue; and the unicorns want to keep progressing with our relationship in whatever capacity that may be (see more about unicorns here).

Never Apologize for Being Authentic

Although I felt more safe having a vagina, my fear of being “found out” and knowing what could happen to me in dating and sexual situations did not subside. I was still very careful with who I met up with, whether through an app, at school, or in the city. In the past, I felt one night stands didn’t need to know and that I didn’t owe them anything—because why should it matter, right? Through reflection, I’ve realized it just makes your life easier to be authentic at all times. I now know that I don’t want to date anyone who won’t accept me, be open to learning more, and take things further based on whether we have a genuine connection. That’s what everyone should want—nothing romantic should ever be forced.

Being open about your true self is rewarding. It erases stress, makes life simpler, allows you to grow in new ways, and eventually will lead you to the person who is right for you.

Charlotte Tilbury’s New Complexion Booster Is Literally a Filter for Your Skin

Sh*t I Actually Use is where Beauty Editor Nikki Brown and other members of the StyleCaster team wax poetic about the products that make it past their desks and into their beauty routines.

If I could have one makeup artist at my side every day, it would be Charlotte Tilbury. And that’s not a statement I make lightly because I know my makeup artists. But there are few women in the beauty industry whose history is as star-studded, award-winning, and lasting as hers.

Your introduction to the fiery redhead likely arrived one of two ways: Either you’ve seen her rubbing elbows with her famous clients (Emma Roberts, Jennifer Lopez, Nicole Kidman, to name a very few) or you’ve spotted her namesake beauty collection online and in stores.

Up until a few weeks ago, I had only dabbled in the makeup section, while maintaining a yearlong obsession with her Magic Cream Moisturizer (peak hydration levels!). But now, I’ve officially added another one of her inventions to my daily routine. And it’s good, like I-need-this-in-travel-size-so-I-don’t-go-a-day-without-it good.

MORE: The 10 Most-Hydrating Primers for Ridiculously Dry Skin

The Name: Hollywood Flawless Filter

The Price: $44. Yes, it’s a little pricey for someone with a modest budget, but it’s also multipurpose, and a little goes a long way. So you can buy one and not worry about having to replace it soon after … unless you use it obsessively like me.

The Ingredients: It’s cruelty-free and free of talc, parabens, fragrance, gluten, nuts, and alcohol.

So what exactly is a “complexion booster?” Think of it as a highlighter that you can use all over the face instead of just on your cheekbones. Instead of a shimmer, this delivers a high-gloss, dewy look that blurs pores and makes your skin look creamy, like your favorite Instagram filter or Facetune. If you’re wearing it mixed in or on top of your foundation, the before and after will astound you.

“This is completely inspired by Instagram filters. I came out with Wonder Glow, which is like Gisele [Bündchen] in a jar. This is like J-Lo in a jar,” Tilbury tells StyleCaster. “This is amped up. More filtered. The porcelain flower basically gives you brightness. It’s got the glossy oil, which creates that smoothness and glow on the skin.”

MORE: 20 Under-$20 Foundations for Coverage That Lasts

There’s a multitude of ways you can use Flawless Filter. Slather it on your skin as a primer before makeup, apply it to your cheekbones and the bridge of your nose as a highlighter, or even wear it alone when you want to skip coverage. As for me, I’ve been wearing it on top of my go-to foundation, applying it to my cheeks, forehead, and nose, and blending with a wet beautyblender.

Sometimes I get a little overzealous and douse it all over, but it honestly still looks dewy and not greasy, which I love; especially since I’m prone to looking super oily this time of year. And the results are seriously astounding:

Nikki Brown

Nikki Brown

Before you complain that there aren’t 40+ shades to choose from, remember that this is not a foundation; instead, think of it as the finishing touch that gives you that lit-from-within glow with very little effort. Tilbury assured me that the product was tested on a wide variety of skin tones, so while I can’t speak for those with pale skin or those with dark skin, I can confidently say that it totally works on my light brown skin.

If you’re a Charlotte Tilbury newbie, I highly recommend starting with the Hollywood Flawless Filter. Tilbury herself also recommends the Multi-Miracle Glow, a favorite of her celebrity clients.

Purchase the Hollywood Flawless Filter here.

The Deal With CBD Oil and Its Potential Health Benefits

The use of medical cannabis to treat the symptoms of physical and mental health problems ranging from cancer to anxiety disorder is nothing new. But cannabidiol (better known as CBD oil) is currently rising in popularity, and if you’ve heard people extol its benefits, you may be wondering how it works—and if it may be something you’d like to use.

What Is CBD Oil?

First things first: What is it? “CBD oil is a compound that is one of the main constituents of cannabis, having limited or no psychoactive effects,” Sara Gullickson, founder and CEO of Dispensary Permits, tells SheKnows, adding that it has a wide variety of medical applications.

According to Gullickson, CBD oil is a great anti-inflammatory, and it can also be used as a mood stabilizer. She says it’s used to treat myriad health problems, including neuro-inflammation, epilepsy, oxidative injury, vomiting and nausea and anxiety.

“CBD and the other cannabinoids act as a ‘homeostatic regulator’ [it helps regulate the physiological systems] for the body by returning the function of many different systems in the body back to normal,” Brian Sanderoff, a licensed pharmacist who manages the Curio Wellness dispensary, tells SheKnows. “This is why you can see such a wide range of effects in different people with different conditions.”

MORE: Paris Jackson Slams Backlash Over Smoking Weed

How Does It Work?

When it comes to how exactly CBD oil works, Sanderoff explains that it’s not entirely understood at the present. “Although it does not appear to directly activate either of the known cannabinoid receptor sites, EC1 or EC2, it likely has a potentiating effect for other cannabinoids and/or activates a yet-to-be-discovered ECS receptor site,” he says.

Medical cannabis is currently legal in 29 states and Washington, D.C., but CBD oil is easier to obtain because there are a number of varieties on the market and not all of them contain THC.

MORE: Charlize Theron Officially Back to Smoking Weed

Is It Legal?

Dr. Jordan Tishler, a Harvard physician, cannabis therapeutics specialist and CEO of InhaleMD, cautions potential users about the legal issues surrounding CBD oil.

“Despite what anyone tells you, CBD is federally illegal under the Controlled Substances Act. The DEA seems not to be interested in pursuing this at the moment,” Tishler tells SheKnows. “The FDA did go after four companies last year who were selling CBD oil that contained no CBD, thus they were making false claims. Beyond that, however, the FDA has not moved to regulate it more closely. Many packages make all sorts of medical or wellness claims that just aren’t proven.”

Tishler also advises against the practice of buying CBD oil on the web due to the lack of “local control and safety information.” Furthermore, he says that THC is what’s really responsible for most of the medical benefits of cannabis—so it’s clear that not everyone agrees on whether or not the hemp-derived form is effective.

“THC is unnecessarily vilified because it causes intoxication,” Tishler explains. “THC, however, plays the central role in the benefits. Intoxication is a side effect, and like side effects of any medication, it must be respected and managed in a careful, thoughtful manner.”

Like anything else, it’s best to consult with your doctor before you venture into the use of any form of CBD oil.

 

Originally posted on SheKnows.

Keke Palmer on Her Natural Hair and Feeling ‘Exploited’ as a Child Star

For many of us who grew up in the 2000s, Keke Palmer was a household face. With movies such as “Akeelah and the Bee” and “Jump In!” and shows including Nickelodeon’s “True Jackson, VP,” Palmer easily fell into the same class as other 2000s favorites such as Miley Cyrus and Selena Gomez. But while her peers went on to lead successful music careers after their child film and television fame fizzled, Palmer struggled to keep up.

Despite record deals with three major labels and a passionate, cultlike fan base, Palmer never saw her songs break Billboard’s Hot 100. Now, after nearly a decade of feeling “exploited” as a child star, financially and creatively, Palmer—who recently released her first single, “Bossy,” from her self-launched record label, Big Boss Entertainment—is taking back her career, and she’s not afraid to use her newfound voice to call out money-hungry greed in the music industry.

“A lot of time, record labels will sign artists just to sign them,” Palmer tells StyleCaster. “They don’t even believe in them. They just sign them to say, ‘I can create this person’ or ‘This person has a great fan base, so I’m going to exploit their audience.’ It doesn’t work. Or worst part is sometimes it does work, and you have artists who are hating themselves afterward.”

Photo: Pari Dukovic

Raised in a small town in Illinois, Palmer fell in love with music after watching her mom, a choir director and former professional singer, perform in her church. After asking for her first choir solo, “Jesus Loves Me,” at 6 years old and toying around in her mom’s recording studio growing up, Palmer knew she wanted to sing professionally.

At 12 years old, on the wave of her breakout fame from “Akeelah and the Bee,” Palmer signed with her first record label, Atlantic Records. Though she received pushback on her brand and direction, the experience ended in Palmer’s favor. Palmer was able to create the music that she wanted and was excited to see how it would perform, until she noticed that her songs weren’t being played on the radio and that she wasn’t being publicized as an artist.

Don’t spend your time trying to get people to believe in you.

“On my first album, I made sure to have so much creative control. But because of that, the album wasn’t very promoted,” Palmer says. “It’s kind of a double-edged sword. If you don’t listen to the label and you do your own thing and protect your art, a lot of the times you won’t get promoted. And if you do what they want, you will get promoted but in a version of yourself that isn’t true to who you are.”

Photo: Getty Images

Frustrated, Palmer moved to her second record label, Interscope Records, three years later. But she came up against the same problem. “My mom and I had this idea that when you get with a major label, they’re really going to be able to do everything and help you, but that’s really not how it is,” Palmer says.

Due to her success on Disney Channel and Nickelodeon, Palmer steadily realized that big-name record labels were attracted to her for her money-making capability and not her artistry. “I feel like my fan base and my popularity were things that they were very attracted to. But they really didn’t take the time to understand me as an artist and really help me tell my story,” Palmer says. “I was in many situations where people wanted my fan base, but they weren’t allowing me to have a true connection to my audience when it came to music.”

No artist wants to be a part of a dictatorship.

Though her acting career came more smoothly, Palmer wasn’t free of challenges. As she grew older and went to more castings and auditions, Palmer became more aware of her natural hair, something that she has been proud of since her childhood. “People say, ‘Why do black girls perm their hair? Why do black girls wear weaves?’ A lot of the time, that’s the only way you can get a job,” Palmer says. “A lot of the time in entertainment, black people couldn’t even get jobs if they came in with an Afro.”

Source: Instagram

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And though Palmer hasn’t heard outright criticism for her natural kinks and coils, the impression was made early on that she needed to change her hair to land the jobs that she wanted—something that she has accepted as an actress. “People have maybe not said those words, but they say, ‘We want you to have a weave. We want you to have long straight hair. We want this character to have this or that,’” Palmer says. “At the end of the day, I am an actress too. So some roles require different things. I don’t take it personally or feel like it’s a personal attack”

Palmer took that same understanding to on-set hair and makeup chairs, where she would often find herself with hairstylists who have no experience working with black hair. “When you do films, oftentimes they don’t have people who know how to deal with African-American hair,” Palmer says. “As I got older and I was able to make requests, I learned to say, ‘I need someone that knows how to deal with my hair.’ Because not everyone knows how to deal with African-American texture hair. I learned how to speak up and make that a priority.”

Palmer soon learned how to speak up in the music industry as well. When she was 21, she signed with her third record label, Island Records, with which she released “I Don’t Belong to You,” a tongue-in-cheek R&B single that became a fast favorite among her fans. However, like Palmer’s previous music, the song struggled to succeed commercially due to a lack of promotion from her label.

“They didn’t believe in me. They didn’t want to do that record,” Palmer says. “If you’re not going to support me financially with what I need and help me to distribute my record worldwide, unless I do things exactly the way that you want, then that’s dictatorship. And no artist wants to be a part of a dictatorship.”

A lot of the time in entertainment, black people couldn’t even get jobs if they came in with an Afro.

The experience was the breaking point that Palmer needed to leave outside record labels permanently and start her own. Using her own money and the help of a promoter she met at Island Records, Palmer launched her own record label, Big Boss Entertainment, with which she released her first song, “Bossy,” in January 2018. The song, which Palmer recently performed on FOX’s Lee Daniels–produced drama “Star,” is the first single from Palmer’s upcoming album, The Boss—a name that encompasses her journey from a naive child star to a headstrong businesswoman.

Source: Instagram

MORE: Dove Cameron on Facing Anorexia and Becoming a Better Role Model

“The Boss album is about this era of me, Keke Palmer, the brand,” Palmer says. “How I’m building the brand and how I’m expanding upon it and me stepping into my own empowerment as far as being a businesswoman.”

But aside from describing Palmer’s literal role as “the boss” of Big Boss Entertainment, the name is also a response to music executives who called Palmer and her mom “bossy” or “a bitch” for speaking up and voicing their demands.

There’s nothing wrong with a woman being a confident.

“I’ve seen my mom be called a bitch and frowned upon for having such power. But to me, it’s not about the niceties. It’s about you owning who you are,” Palmer says. “I realized that that’s a big thing in our world, misogyny and the way that women are sometimes portrayed. There’s nothing wrong with a woman being confident, and a strong man has no problem with a woman being confident either.”

Palmer’s experience is also why she’s so protective of child stars and artists who can be easily taken advantage of. Another reason she started Big Boss Entertainment was to nurture new artists and encourage them to embrace their “bossiness.”

“Child stars can be taken advantage of a lot,” Palmer says. “Any time you’re green in the industry, you can fall prey to being taken advantage of or exploited because you don’t really know how things work. I don’t want them to become—I don’t want to use the word—’damaged goods.’ I don’t want their passion and their zest for what they believe in to become tainted by people trying to take advantage of it.”

Photo: Von Jackson

Palmer hopes that her experience will help struggling artists understand that it’s OK that not everyone believes in them. The only thing that they can do is find the ones that do and stick with them. “Believe in yourself and don’t expect other people to,” Palmer says. “Don’t spend your time trying to get people to believe in you. Be with the ones that already do and if people want to join the bandwagon, then, hey, if they’re a true believer, then allow them to be a part of your movement.”

Patrick Starr Delivers ‘Floral Realness’ With His Second MAC Collection

What beauty blogger used to work for MAC retail stores and is now debuting their second collection with the brand? Oh, right, that’s Patrick Starr. Set your calendars because the 28-year-old’s newest goodies, Floral Realness, will be coming your way mid-April.

A little over a year ago, Starr partnered with MAC for his first holiday collection which had 12 products. It had tons of fabulous snags, but the whole bundle would cost you about $230. This time around, Starr has made two face sets— both consisting of a four-shade eyeshadow palette, lipstick, lip gloss and blush— that retail for only $49.50 each. We’re on board with this affordability!

Source: Instagram Source: Instagram

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The two sets, “Me So Fleek” and “Me So Chic,” cater to both edgy and girly vibes while still bringing in the colors of flora and fauna. There’s deep blues and bright fuschias in “Me So Fleek” and softer pinks and tans in “Me So Chic.” Starr spoke to Elle about his inspiration for the collection and how he describes the sets.

“It’s [Me So Chic] very chic, it’s very pastel. It’s great lavenders and mauve tones. The other kit is called ‘Me So Fleek.’ And that’s kind of like for my baddies out there that want a more edgy look. So, you have a royal blue. You have a fuchsia lip called ‘Hey Boy Hey.’ And there’s another one of the blushes called, ‘I’m Not Blushing’ from the Me So Chic kit. It’s very cute because it’s very playful. If you were to describe it in a flower, it’s that badass flower with thorns. You know? You’ve got a little edge to you.”

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If you’re ready to serve Floral Realness and prove to Miranda Priestly that florals are groundbreaking this spring, this collection is a dream come true. The official launch online is April 16 and it’ll in-stores on April 19.

So, There’s a Report That Jennifer Lawrence and Rob Kardashian Are Dating

We interrupt your Friday to bring you some breaking celebrity gossip: Jennifer Lawrence is reportedly dating Rob Kardashian. If you’re as confused as we are, let us break down the rumor. The talk began recently when OK! magazine (a questionable source for celebrity gossip) recently reported that the 27-year-old actress and the 31-year-old reality star are an item.

The relationship reportedly began when the two met in passing and Lawrence thought that Rob was “sort of cute.” Some time after, Kardashian’s mom, Kris Jenner, reportedly asked Lawrence if she would consider taking her son out. The actress reportedly agreed and after a few casual dates and flirty phone calls, the pair’s relationship apparently blossomed into something more serious.

“So when Kris approached her about taking Rob out, Jen figured, ‘Why not?’” a source told OK! “After a few long phone calls and coffee dates and lunches, Jen is pleasantly surprised!”

According to OK!, Rob feels the same way about Lawrence, whom he considers “a breath of fresh air” after a string of relationships with “bad girls.” (Is that Blac Chyna shade?) “He’s always gone for the bad girls, so Jen is a complete breath of fresh air,” the source said.

Photo: Getty Images

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Now, before you start creating Lawrence-Kardashian fan videos, keep in mind that OK! isn’t exactly known as the most reliable source when it comes to celebrity gossip. However, the rumor isn’t completely out of the ordinary either. Lawrence has been a long-time fan of the Kardashian-Jenners. When shooting her 2017 film, “Mother!,” she even created a Kardashian-themed tent, with the family’s pictures and “Keeping up with the Kardashians” playing on a loop, to keep her sane.

The Oscar winner has also visited Kris Jenner’s house, where she drunkenly danced with the mom of six and stripped down naked so that Rob’s older sister, Kim Kardashian, could dress her. So clearly, she has a comfortable relationship with the family. Lawrence also recently interviewed Kim on “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” where she asked Kim about her relationship with Rob’s ex, Blac Chyna. (If the rumors are true, that’s some textbook ex-girlfriend sleuthing.)

Now, let’s break down the reasons why the rumor likely isn’t true. (Aside from the fact that it’s completely absurd to begin with, but hey, more surprising things have happened in Hollywood.) If Lawrence and Rob, two of the most reported-on tabloid fixtures, have been on several lunch and coffee dates, why haven’t there been any paparazzi photos? Can the two be that incognito or are all these coffee and lunch spots be at super-secret locations?

MORE: 10 Times Celebrity Couples Savagely Roasted Each Other on Social Media

Either way, until the news comes from the couple themselves, it’s best to take it with a grain of salt. It’s never a dull day for the Kardashians.

The Best Open-Toed Shoes to Spring for This Season

Our toes (and the rest of our bodies) are ready for spring and it’s about time we decorate our feet in florals, platforms, mules, and more. We’re rounding up the best open-toed shoes for spring, and the only thing you’re missing is a fresh pedicure.

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This spring we’re seeing a bevy of white, yellow, and red shoes, plus a ton of embellishments, intricate detailing, and even some fruit prints! This spring’s sartorial vibe is all about not taking yourself too seriously, and we fully support this movement. So throw on some banana mules (slide 14) or even a vinyl floral heel (slide 6) and get ready to step into the new season with your best foot (and shoe) forward.

How to Spiral Curls on Natural Hair, According to YouTube

Although I’ve gotten over my deeply rooted frizzy hair complex, that doesn’t mean I’ve neglected my search for an easy way (key word: easy) to make my curls bounce and spiral. In fancier terms, I want definition and to enhance what’s already there. What I’ve learned is that sometimes gels and creams simply don’t cut it—but knowing how to spiral curls does.

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When you factor in all of the processes we typically put our strands through—like coloring and heat-styling—it’s no wonder our natural curls start to fall flat over time. What we really need to do beyond investing in curling products is literally manipulate our hair back into its original pattern. Albeit it takes time and consistency, there are some tried-and-true techniques that make this a reality.

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Now, if you’ve got textured hair like me, the gamut is pretty wide, but the results and prep time slightly vary. Over the course of my natural hair journey, I’ve grown to love a slew of black vloggers, like PrettyGirlsWithCurls and Mini Marley, whose curls seems to always flourish without effort. What they have in common are these five defining methods. Ahead, a refresher on what each of them are and what to expect as you try them.

Shingling Method

This tool-free method works best on detangled, damp hair, but requires a lot of product, such as an alcohol-free gel or moisturizing cream. Start by separating the hair into four sections. From there, take a small section from one of those sections and rake or smooth product through from roots to tips.

If you’re feeling extra ambitious, define and elongate each curl within that smaller section by raking your fingers through. After that, try not to touch your hair as it dries overnight or otherwise. This process can feel tedious, depending on your hair length, so maybe not the best option for those on a time crunch.

MORE: How to Take Care of Textured Hair While Working Out

Finger Coils Method

Like the shingling method, you can begin the finger coiling technique by splitting your hair into four sections and split each of those into two sub-sections (eight total). Next, detangle each section (or detangle the entire head beforehand) and apply a curl activator of your choice. Take one of your subsections and grab a small piece of hair from it.

Coat your index finger in a dab of curl activator and twist the strand around it, hold for a few seconds and loosen. It doesn’t matter how big or small the curl is; it’s simply a matter of personal preference—although, the smaller the curl, the more definition you’ll see overall. After you’re done, you can allow your hair to air-dry. This method is also tedious, so save it for a lazy Sunday.

MORE: 10 Absolute Best Sephora Products for Textured Hair

Two- or Three-Strand Twist-Out Method

The twist-out is the most popular curl-defining method because it can be done on dry or wet hair. When done on wet hair, the results are smaller, spirally curls; and on heat-styled hair, you can expect to see bigger waves. Start by separating your hair into three or four sections. Take one section and spray it with water or a styler (best option for dry hair) to add moisture.

Once you’ve detangled with a comb or your fingers, separate a small section within your sub-section and split it into three strands. From there, take the strand furthest on the right, rotate it over to the left and repeat until you’ve gotten to the ends. Once your entire head is done, wear the twists overnight to really lock in the definition and remove when you wake up.

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Braid Out Method

This method is nearly identical to the twist-out method, except you’re doing traditional braids throughout the hair instead. For best results, start with freshly shampooed and deep-conditioned hair. You should also begin your braids in the back of the head, so you can easily see that section, while everything else is pinned away, giving you a clearer view. The amount of braids you do will depend on the amount of time you have and how big you want your curls to be. Again, if you’re looking for skinny spirals, aim for smaller-sized ones.

MORE: 6 DIY Coffee Scrub Recipes for Smoother Skin and Shinier Hair

Flexi-Rod or Perm Rod Set Method

If you prefer doing your hair right before bed so it has ample time to settle, a flexi-rod set will keep all of your hard work secure and in place as you sleep. You can pick up these Styrofoam sticks at your local beauty supply store.

Lay the rod flat against your scalp and wrap the hair around the rod, working your way down. If you want a smoother look, stop every couple of seconds to brush through the curls. Once you’re done wrapping the hair, bend both ends of the rods into each other until you form a tight circle. Repeat this throughout the hair and hold your entire ‘do in place with a silk and satin bonnet. After you’ve removed the rods in the morning, use a tail comb to gently style the curls without disturbing their newly defined shape.

A version of this article was originally published in January 2018.

The Quick and Dirty Travel Workout for a Smaller Waist

We’re not ashamed to admit that we use traveling as an excuse to break from our workout schedule. Seriously, why run on the treadmill when you can soak in a hot tub or enjoy the comfort of a king-size bed? But amenities aside, there’s really no valid excuse for skipping exercise, even if you’re far away from home.

If your hotel doesn’t come equipped with a gym, there’s still plenty you can do just steps away from your bed. “For a quick hotel workout, we are going to utilize our space and our luggage. The point of this workout is to not have something heavy; just something to keep your body in motion and heart rate up,” says Thumbtack personal trainer Baron Lambert.

This quick and dirty workout can be applied to any of your fitness goals, but especially the ones that include a trimmer waist. Do each of them for one minute with as many reps as possible, rest 30 to 60 seconds, and move on to the next.

MORE: The Quick and Dirty Gym Workout for a Smaller Waist

Allison Kahler

If you have the ability, jump directly onto the bed, step down, and repeat. If you can’t jump that high, you can simply step up onto the bed and then back down, alternating legs each time.

Allison Kahler

Set a piece of luggage on the floor and stand by the side of it. Jump sideways back and forth over it. Be careful not to trip.

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Allison Kahler

Set up with a medium-size or small piece of luggage that has some weight to it (duffel bag, briefcase, small suitcase). While holding the object, squat and touch it to ground. As you come up, start lifting it until you are standing tall and holding it completely overhead. Drop down and repeat.

Allison Kahler

Hold the push-up position while running your legs in place. Try to drive the knee in toward the opposite hand to get good core engagement.