Sephora Just Unveiled a Game-Changing, In-Store Perk for Shoppers

Sephora stores carry a number of perks, including but not limited to, custom makeovers, personal one-on-ones and Beauty Studio classes. But none have garnered more excitement than its most recent inclusion of the PERK Hydrating Facial (I mean, how perfect is that name?!), an exclusive skin-care treatment in partnership with The HydraFacial Company.

MORE: SPF Setting Sprays and Powders for When You Forget Sunscreen

The premium 30-minute service, utilized by fancy technology, happens in a couple steps. First, a certified Sephora consultant uses a “Moisture Meter” to measure hydration levels and determine your skin type. Next, all makeup and debris is removed with a cleanser, followed by the actual treatment, which is split into two parts.

First, according to a press release, “a nourishing solution that exfoliates the skin, revealing a smoother, more even surface. The specialized cleansing tip acts as a vacuum to suction impurities from the skin. The patented roller-flex technology deeply cleans while prepping for the delivery of Step Two.”

Step Two is a hydrating and brightening serum, delivered to the skin by the PERK machine. Afterwards, the consultant will apply an eye cream and moisturizer to preserve and amplify the benefits of the treatment. They’ll also provide a personalized Digital Skincare Guide that includes product recommendations and application tips, all of which can be conveniently emailed to the customer.

And according to Cosmopolitan, you can see all of the facial debris vacuumed from your face in a jar. We’re both disgusted and intrigued. (See a full explainer of the treatment above.)

MORE: Expert-Recommended Facials According to Your Biggest Skin Concern

Of course, there are a few caveats to the new PERK program. For starters, it’s only available in 100 stores across the U.S. and so far, no announcements have been made to expand beyond that. It’s also not completely free; you’ll have to make a purchase of at least $75 before experiencing the complimentary treatment which you can schedule online at Sephora.com, through the Sephora app or by calling the store. And there’s always the option of a walk-in appointment.

While the $75 minimum may be a lot for some, we’d say this is a damn good deal, considering the cost of facials at traditional spas. Kudos to Sephora for demystifying the facial experience and making it more accessible. Learn more about the program over at Sephora’s website.

The Best Lightweight Knits to Stock up on This Spring

As thrilled as we are that the weather is finally feeling like it’s supposed to at this time of year—hi, sun!—climate change means that even at the height of spring (or summer, or fall), it might be hot and sunny one minute, and the next you’re wishing you had a sweater to snuggle up in. Since weather apps can’t be counted upon, we suggest you outsmart these fashion curveballs by carrying lightweight knits whenever possible so that you’re never caught in full-on shiver mode while wearing a cotton romper.

MORE: 25 On-Trend Spring Shoes to Buy Now

A knit sweater, dress, or even a pair of pants can be perfect solution to not knowing what the weather will call for. Indeed, no one can argue that knits are a most favorable alternative to chunky coats or heavy fabrics. We can’t wait to get our hands on a versatile, affordable knit top (check out slide 24) or to-die-for knit pants (go fan-girl on slide 8). Click through to see our top knit selects of the season.

This Transgender Teen Is Compared ‘Every Day’ to Look-Alike Victoria Beckham

As many Spice Girls fans know, no one can replace Victoria Beckham. The 44-year-old is one-of-a-kind, a fashion icon, and has defined what it means to be posh. But like any influential pop culture figure, the singer-turned-designer has her fair share of doppelgängers and her latest might be her most uncanny yet. Ruby Corder, a transgender teen from Arlesey, United Kingdom, looks so much like the mom of four that she hears comparisons to her “every day.”

In an interview with Daily Mail, Corder, who is 18 and came out as transgender a year ago, revealed that she began hearing more comparisons to Beckham when she started experimenting with makeup a few years ago. After the teen became better at doing her own makeup, including contouring her decolletage to create the illusion of breasts, the look-alike comparisons escalated.

https://twitter.com/RubyCorder/status/886570866078887936

MORE: This Plus-Size Model Is Being Called Meghan Markle’s Doppelgänger

But Beckham isn’t the only celebrity who Corder is compared to. The teen, who is an up-and-coming beauty vlogger and was inspired to transition by transgender YouTuber Gigi Gorgeous, also hears comparisons to Dua Lipa and Kendall Jenner. However, due to her posh attitude, Beckham is the celebrity she hears the most.

“I like strong women and I look up to a lot of YouTubers. I don’t try to look like anyone but whenever I go out random strangers say I resemble Posh Spice, Dua Lipa and Kendall Jenner,” Corder said. “I’m mostly a fan of Posh Spice. I love her style. We do have similarities, especially her eyes.”

https://twitter.com/RubyCorder/status/833979045838802945

MORE: 15 Seriously Uncanny Celebrity Look-Alikes Who Will Blow Your Mind

Though they’re not dead-ringers for each other, Corder’s resemblance to Beckham is hard to miss, especially when you look at pictures of the designer in her Spice Girls days. The two sport chic, chin-length bobs, steely eyes, and pursed lips. The women’s dark features, including their hair and strong brows, also add to their look-alike potential.  Of course, celebrity doppelgängers are different for everyone. To determine Corder’s chance of seriously impersonating Beckham, see her most look-alike selfies below.

https://twitter.com/RubyCorder/status/975762070871400449 https://twitter.com/RubyCorder/status/950642107210977280 https://twitter.com/RubyCorder/status/983756120333438979 https://twitter.com/RubyCorder/status/836649008730943489 https://twitter.com/RubyCorder/status/878660776654974977 https://twitter.com/RubyCorder/status/878581876167987201 https://twitter.com/RubyCorder/status/825002383201677312

 

 

The SPF-Infused Setting Sprays and Powder That Pinch-Hit When You Forget Sunscreen

We’re grateful that sun protection has evolved past the smelly creams and sprays our parents would make us apply as children. Unfortunately, we still need someone—anyone, really—to remind us that wearing SPF doesn’t have a cutoff age. Sunscreen isn’t the sexiest product in our beauty arsenal, but with sun exposure rising to dangerous levels (hello, global warming!) and the always-looming threat of skin-related disease, there are simply no excuses.

Even if you’re running out the door every morning and forget to apply sun protection somewhere between your moisturizer and foundation, setting sprays and powders are the clutch, last-minute skin saviors that may not cover your entire body, but at least shield your face from the elements. Whether you prefer a dewy setting spray or matte powder, ahead are the best-selling finishers with SPF for when you forget to slather on the sunscreen.

MORE: 5 Sunscreens That Don’t Leave a Chalky Cast on Brown Skin

 

 

bareMinerals

bareMinerals Mineral Veil Setting Powder Broad Spectrum SPF 25

A loose powder available in translucent or tinted form to protect the skin from UVA/UVB rays, while blurring the appearances of lines and creases under makeup. Talc-free and dermatologically tested, it also absorbs oil without stripping the skin of moisture.

$23 at bareMinerals

Ilia

Ilia Flow-Thru Radiant Translucent Powder SPF 20

Expect just a hint of luminosity when you apply this lightweight vegan formula over makeup that needs help staying put. The open-and-close function of the brush applicator also makes it the perfect on-the-go travel companion for your purse.

$34 at Ilia

MORE: The Best Clinical-Strength Deodorants for Fighting BO

Peter Thomas Roth

Peter Thomas Roth Oily Problem Skin Instant Mineral Powder SPF 30

If your skin is prone to greasy skin during the spring/summer seasons, this talc-free matte powder absorbs excess oil while also protecting the skin as it’s exposed to the sun and other environmental stressors.

$30 at Sephora

AmorePacific

AmorePacific Resort Collection Sun Protection Mist Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Sunscreen

This luxurious formula is chock-full of skin-saving ingredients, including plum extract for healing heat damage, matsutake mushroom and bamboo sap for moisture, and of course—ample sun protection.

$75 at AmorePacific

MORE: The 7 Best SPF-Filled Tinted Moisturizers We’re Obsessed With

COOLA

Coola Organic SPF 30 Makeup Setting Sunscreen Spray

Made with 70 percent certified-organic ingredients, hyaluronic acid (for moisture), and aloe vera (for calming irritation), this setting spray is for anyone who doesn’t want to sacrifice their makeup for the beach or other setting with excess sun exposure.

$36 at Coola

Dr. Dennis Gross

Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Sheer Mineral Sun Spray SPF 50

This water-resistant formula, free of chemical fillers, is built to last through two hours of physical activity. Even if your skin is already wet, the formula dries sheer without leaving a tinted residue behind.

$42 at Dr. Dennis Gross

Hampton Sun

Hampton Sun SPF 55 Continuous Mist

The oil-free formula, enhanced with the brand’s signature Privet Bloom scent, sprays lightly and evenly onto the skin, providing your makeup or bare skin with a silky feel and sun protection, too.

$32 at Hampton Sun

Shiseido

Shiseido Ultimate Sun Protection Spray Broad Spectrum SPF 50+

This SPF shield can be used on bare skin or over makeup to provide sun protection in and out of water. It’s also nonsticky, so if you’re playing in the sand, you needn’t worry about making a mess.

$36 at Shiseido

Supergoop!

Supergoop! Defense Refresh Setting Mist SPF 50

 

Chloe Bennet Calls Out Makeup Artists Who Try to ‘Open’ Her ‘Asian’ Eyes

As a half-Chinese actress, Chloe Bennet has been outspoken about racism in Hollywood. The 26-year-old has spoken in-depth about the difficult decision she made to change her last name from Wang to Bennet to land roles in an industry that has historically left out Asian and Asian-American actors. Now, the “Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.” star is speaking out against the beauty industry and makeup artists who try to erase her Asian features by attempting to “open” her almond-shaped eyes.

In an interview with Us Weekly, Bennet, who recently partnered with J-beauty brand SK-II, opened up about her relationship with her Asian features and how, when she does her own makeup, she likes to accentuate them, instead of hiding them to play up her half-white background. Bennet’s preference to show off her natural Asian features is in stark contrast to many makeup artists whom she has worked with in the past who she said try to make her eyes look bigger, instead of highlighting her natural almond shape.

“I really like accentuating my Asian features and the the almond eye shape that I have. For a long time, a lot of makeup artists would try to open my eyes really wide and I felt like I didn’t look like myself and like it changed the shape of my face,” Bennet said.

Source: Instagram

MORE: Chrissy Teigen on Giving Luna Brown-Skinned Dolls and Embracing Her Thai Culture

Olivia Munn, who is also half-Chinese, has also been open about how makeup can change an Asian person’s features. In an interview with Byrdie, the actress talked about the difference between working with an Asian makeup artist who knows how to accentuate Asian features and one who does not. Munn cited two appearances, one where she was glammed by Asian-American artist Patrick Ta and another where she wasn’t, where she looked drastically different.

“I’m Chinese and white, and I actually have more of a Chinese bone structure but more white features, and little things completely transform my face,” Munn said. “Like putting shimmer in the corner of my eyes can make me look cross-eyed. There are some people who can wear any makeup style, and they will look beautiful. But for me, I can see drastic changes. Like when I work with other makeup artists, sometimes they’ll do the same thing to me that they’ve done to a lot of white girls, and it doesn’t work.”

MORE: What Celebrities Look Like With and Without Makeup

Double eyelid surgeries, a plastic surgery to make the eyes look bigger, are some of the most popular procedures in Asia. It’s important that Bennet and Munn are speaking out against westernized beauty standards and encouraging Asian people to embrace their natural features, instead of change them. We hope makeup artists take note.

Serena Williams Opens Up About the Struggles of Being in an Interracial Relationship

With an adorable 8-month-old daughter and a fairytale wedding attended by the likes of Kim Kardashian and Beyoncé, Serena Williams and Alexis Ohanian might look like the picture-perfect couple, but the tennis player will assure you that a lot of discourse, especially around race and what it’s like to date someone of a different skin color, went into the couple’s unbreakable bond. 

In an interview with The New York Times, the 36-year-old athlete, who has dated both white and black men, opened up about her experience in an interracial relationship. Along with never expecting that she “would marry a white guy,” Williams also pointed out the different industries that she and Ohanian, a co-founder for the website Reddit, come from.

“I’m an athlete,” Williams said. “He’s a business guy. I’m black. He’s white. We are totally opposite. I think we just complement each other. I think we understand hard work in different ways.”

Photo: Getty Images

MORE: Are Millennials Less Open to Interracial Relationships Than They Think?

In terms of cultural difference, Williams made it a point to explain to Ohanian the racism she faces as a black woman and the difference in how she would be treated if she was white. Likewise, Williams also makes sure that Ohanian knows how their relationship would be different if she was the same race as him.

“Literally all I tell Alexis is, ‘well, you know, there’s such a difference between white people and black people.’ He always gets to hear about the injustices that happen; that wouldn’t happen if I were white. It’s interesting,” she said.

In the end, though Williams never expected to marry a “white guy,” she acknowledges that the relationship changed her outlook on love and how any two people can fall in love, regardless of skin color. “I never thought I would have married a white guy, either, so it just goes to show you that love truly has no color, and it just really goes to show me the importance of what love is,” Williams said.

MORE: Ashley Graham Opens Up About Her Family’s Initial Racism Toward Her Black Husband

Too often do celebrities who are in interracial relationships ignore the cultural and societal differences between them. Williams’s honesty reminds us that, no matter how “cultured” you think you are, there will always differences in an interracial relationship and things to learn about your partner’s background. The best thing to do is listen and take in what the other person is saying, like Ohanian did with Williams.

Here’s Why You Should ‘Make the Bed’ in Every Room of Your Home

This spring cleaning season, there’s one fundamental tip that’s going to become your best decluttering tool. You’ve heard it before: Getting into the habit of making your bed as soon as you wake up will make you more productive during the rest of the day. Productivity expert Charles Duhigg writes in his book, The Power of Habit, “[M]aking your bed every morning is correlated with better productivity, a greater sense of well-being, and stronger skills at sticking with a budget.”

This got me thinking—if making your bed puts you on the path to daylong productivity, what other small habits will help you achieve the same effect? If you’re a firm believer in the power of making your bed, here are four ways to carry that productivity habit into other areas of your home.

1. Clear Your Coffee Table

Coffee tables: the classic home repository for all manner of keys, phones, wallets, earbuds, newspapers, junk mail and beyond. Making sure your coffee tables are neat and orderly, with all the things that live on it neatly arranged, will take two to three minutes maximum, and the payoff will be huge. If you’re interested in incorporating the make-your-bed method into your life but don’t know where to begin, start with the coffee table.

MORE: The Millennial Decor Trends Taking Over Pinterest Right Now

2. Wipe Down Kitchen Counters

It’s easy to forget just how germy and gross our countertops can get, but when you come in from a workday and plop down your purse, groceries, gym bag or anything you happen to be carrying, a lot of unwanted things can get left behind. Starting the day with a clean counter means you’ll eliminate the transfer of germs and bacteria and have a cleaner kitchen in minutes.

3. Empty Your Dishwasher

This is a great habit to get into at the end of your day. No one likes waking up to a chore, so by emptying your dishwasher at night, it will be all ready to load up with tomorrow’s breakfast dishes.

MORE: New Study Says You’re Combating Work Stress the Wrong Way

4. Restock Bathroom Supplies

Dollars to doughnuts, there’s at least one thing in your bathroom that needs to be restocked or, at minimum, checked on. For example, you can always make sure you have enough toilet paper at the ready because getting caught without at least one backup roll you can reach is never fun. But you should also make sure you’re stocked up on tissues, toothpaste and even make sure your hand soap dispenser is filled up. This is an easy two-minute check that will make all the difference throughout your day and, by extension, the rest of your week.

Like all good habits, adapting the making-the-bed method into your daily routine will be tough at first, but it could truly pay dividends in the long run. Less stress and more productivity? Yeah, that’s definitely worth taking a few extra minutes every morning or evening to do these tasks.

 

Originally posted on SheKnows.