The LVMH-owned heritage beauty house is launching a premium hair care line, its first major foray into the category since 1970.

The brand launched its first commercial hair product in decades last year, introducing an oil-in-serum for hair and scalp that used technology from the brand’s best-selling skin care line Abeille Royale.
Now, following the success of the launch, Guerlain is rounding out the line with a shampoo ($82), conditioner ($82) and mask ($93) — all formulated with the same black-bee honey repair technology found in Abeille Royale skin care products — along with a scalp brush ($169). It comes as the brand sees consumers increasingly investing more in hair products and scalp maintenance, said Cecile Koenig, Guerlain’s director of international skin care marketing.

”During the Covid crisis, we witnessed the rise of more premium hair care with far more sophisticated routines,” said Koenig. “We are now seeing that the category is booming.”

The hair care range, which is already available on Guerlain’s websites in France and the US, will go on sale at retailers including Saks Fifth Avenue and Bergdorf Goodman on June 12.

Considering the popularity of lash lifts and lash growth serums, people are clearly clamoring for fuller, longer, curlier lashes. So the ongoing ubiquity of the eyelash curler is also no surprise. It looks a bit like a medieval contraption, but this coveted beauty tool is found in makeup kits around the globe. Incorporating this device into your routine adds no more than a minute or two—and has a major payoff—as long as you know how to use an eyelash curler correctly.

​Ready to add this little handy gadget to your regimen? Since using one for the first time can feel...intimidating, we're offering a step-by-step makeup tutorial on how to use an eyelash curler. But first, let's talk about what makes a good eyelash curler.

How to Choose the Best Eyelash Curler 
"An eyelash curler takes your makeup look to the next level," says Dema Jaber, makeup artist. "Using an eyelash curler helps elongate the lashes and points them up rather than straight out, making them appear much longer giving you a more open eye look and long full lashes."
But as with any product, some eyelash curlers are better than others. "Make sure that the curler you use has a rounded rubber pad in the base of the curler," says celebrity makeup artist AJ Crimson. The larger and softer the cushion, the better. This makes for a more comfortable usage experience, and it also helps protect your lashes from breaking under pressure.

Also, make sure that the curler opens and shuts easily and that it's comfortable to handle. Finally, the curvature should line up with your eye shape. The latter two qualities to look for in an eyelash curler will vary from person to person, so don't be afraid to shop around until you find the best option for your lashes.

How Often to Use an Eyelash Curler 
Beauty experts say that it's safe to use an eyelash curler every day—with one caveat: Keep it clean. Wipe it with a makeup remover wipe after every use to prevent bacteria buildup that can lead to an eye infection. You should also replace the pad every three to six months.

How to Use an Eyelash Curler 
Knowing how to use an eyelash curler is pretty simple, but there's definitely an art to the process. Follow this step-by-step eyelash tutorial and you'll nail those fluttering, Bambi-like lashes every single time.

Step 1: Start With Bare Lashes A common mistake people make when using a traditional eyelash curler is that they apply mascara first. (If you're wearing adhesive falsies, apply them first and then curl them.) Jaber says you should always start with naked lashes for several reasons.

• It prevents your eyelashes from sticking to the curler, which is likely to happen if you're already wearing mascara.
• It prevents your lashes from clumping together or looking spidery.
• It keeps your curler much cleaner in the long run.

Step 2: Look Down "My trick to ensure you don't nip your eyelid when curling your lashes is to look down," says Jaber. She says that by looking down, you'll have easier access to your lash line and are less likely to nip your delicate eyelid skin.

Step 3: Gently Clamp Down Bring the opened curler up to your lashes. The lashes should fall between the two clamps. Gently clamp down while making sure you don't have any skin between the clamps.
"If you feel a pinch, move the curler outward away from you," says Crimson. If all's clear, you can press more firmly. The goal is to get as close to your lash line as possible without accidentally nipping your skin.

Step 4: Hold and Pulse Once comfortable, press down firmly (but not too hard) for about five seconds. Jaber recommends a gentle pulsing rhythm. Repeat all the above steps on your other eye.
Step 5: Apply Mascara After both lashes are curled, it's time to go in with your favorite mascara. Apply as usual, making sure to get into the root of your lash all the way to the tip. If you want, you can use an eyelash comb afterward to further separate your lashes.

After opening its Dioriviera pop-up at Rosewood Miramar Beach in Montecito, California in 2021 and another pop-up at Gurney's Montauk Resort at the end of 2022, Dior returns to California all summer long for a new pop-up at the iconic Beverly Hills Hotel's pool and cabanas. Despite the lack of sun, the Dior team went all out, dressing all the deckchairs and cabana decorations in pink covered with toile de Jouy, installing a poolside treatment room in the same colors, and even an ice-cream kiosk. 


Under the palm trees, and at the top of a staircase, also painted pink, the luxury house has installed three beach cabanas, of the same type as those seen on the French Côte d'Azur, which open onto a large boutique inspired "by a sandy beach escape.

The decor is particularly successful, revealing a boutique where the walls, furniture and shelves seem to be carved directly from the sand. At the back of the store, 'J'adior Beverly Hills' appears to have been handwritten just like on the beach. Fake sand sculptures of tigers, giraffes and even the famous Dior cabas handbag covered in toile de jouy complete the picture. 


In addition to the Dioriviera perfume in XXL format, Dior presented its resort collection in pink, blue, black and white and toile de jouy with espadrilles, caps, scarves, mules, and swimsuits

The playful selection of accessories ranges from ping-pong paddles to petanque sets and kubb, the Swedish version of pétanque. There are also pink and toile de Jouy water bottles, cushions, candles and even yoga mats. Last but not least, several showcases feature Dior's pink and white jewelry and clutches.


Until September, Dioriviera will be based at the Beverly Hills Hotel, an iconic Los Angeles hotel originally named the Pink Lady, which for over a century has welcomed Hollywood's greatest stars. Katharine Hepburn, Marlene Dietrich and Elizabeth Taylor have all left their mark on the history of this hotel, which boasts 210 rooms and suites, a series of bungalows, the famous Polo Lounge where you can order the McCarthy salad, and a spa.

The phrase ’Pacific chill,’ also the name of the latest parfum de cologne from French luxury house Louis Vuitton, is one that is open to interpretation. For master perfumer Jacques Cavallier Belletrud, it means a feeling of freedom and a connection with both the self and nature, embodied by California. For artist and Louis Vuitton collaborator Alex Israel, it means a morning routine consisting of a hike along the Pacific Palisades’ Paseo Miramar Trail overlooking the ocean, followed by a green juice. To mark the launch of the fragrance in Malibu on Wednesday, California offered up another, more literal interpretation in the form of a cool, marine layer that enveloped the retreat-style event in a crisp, briny brume. 

The fifth fragrance in a series of scents inspired by the dramatic landscape, light, and extravagant beauty of America’s Pacific Coast, Pacific Chill was dreamt up by Belletrud and Israel over a juice at the Beverly Hills Hotel last year. “It was the beginning of April, and the temperature was good,” Belletrud recalls. “Alex and I were drinking this carrot, orange, and ginger juice. It was completely new for me, and I loved the taste. It was amazing. I smelled this blackcurrant note, and I had the idea to mix the scent from the carrot and orange with [it] and to see what happens.” The end result? A unisex scent that evokes both L.A. wellness culture and the regenerative vigor of the ocean through a fruity blend of carrot seeds and coriander combined with ambrette, basil, peppermint, and orange essence, with a hint of May rose for a floral sweetness. “I try to create fragrances that create emotions,” says Belletrud. “And I’m convinced that a good perfume makes you quieter within and allows you to reconnect with yourself.”

Expanding on this olfactory philosophy, Louis Vuitton hosted an immersive experience at a secluded estate perched high on the hillside overlooking the Pacific. In between guided yogic breathwork, reiki, and sound bath sessions on the lawn, guests including Miranda Kerr (the face of the upcoming campaign), Jasmine Tookes, Clara Berry, Josephine Skriver and Marianna Hewitt, sipped on the aforementioned inspirational juice and relaxed on Louis Vuitton bedecked lounge chairs while nibbling on avocado and quinoa salad. The day also marked the reveal of Israel’s artwork for the fragrance: a landscape inspired by the view of his favorite  hike. “It’s more of an idealization than an illustration: a kind of embellished memory,” he said of the painting, which features accessories including a fragrance case and flaconnier. “Maybe this is worth noting as the experience of fragrance is so closely linked to memory, and because in a world of increasingly mixed realities, memories and their accompanying emotions might carry more weight than ever before.

Usually, when it comes to beauty launches, the thinking is: the flashier, the better. And that's certainly been the case within the lash category over the past few years, with maximalist falsies, magnetic cluster lashes, over-the-top eyelash extensions and up-to-your-brows individuals reigning supreme, from BeautyTok to runways. But the minimalist lash's time has finally come. Brown mascara— and its laid-back, cool-kid, model-off-duty, let-the-rest-of-the-face-shine effect — is officially having a moment. Brands like YSL Beauty have recently introduced brown versions of their most beloved mascara formula as demand for understated lashes has taken off.

"I think there's definitely an insurgence of natural makeup looks, probably because of the influx of heavier makeup [we'd been seeing before that]. Brown mascara just ties in really well to that," says makeup artist Katie Jane Hughes, who recently created a red-lip-and-brown-lash look for her popular #KJHAcademy social media series. 

Brown mascara is also a staple in Tony Tulve's kit, in part because of its versatility. "[It] may seem old-school, but it's a great product to keep in your makeup bag or kit," he says. "It's a quick way to define the eye, using a more shadow-y tone... and really lets you play around with other makeup." It's also an easy, instant way to get "'model-off-duty' vibes in a way that still has a bit of glam, [since] it allows for the lashes to have a moment without being so 'there' as a black mascara can be," he argues. Tulve relies on brown mascara for the subtlety that simply can't be achieved by traditional black formulas. "I find brown mascaras are great to add that subtle bit of definition to any look where you want the lashes to be seen and not heard. In today's lash-heavy society, this whisper of a tone really allows for balance, and you to choose which feature is taking the stage and which is there to help support," he says.

Both artists are quick to point out that absolutely anyone can wear brown mascara, regardless of eye color or natural lash tone. "Brown is a color that's complementary to every eye shade," says Tulve. "Whether it be a true brown or a blackish brown, every eye colour benefits from the soft definition it can give." As for those with deep skin tones — who tend to naturally also have darker lashes — it's important to find the right brown, notes Hughes: "My advice is to go for that black-brown colour, or to just keep the lashes softer than usual, but not to make them look lighter."

Over the last decade or so, Bleu De Chanel, the French luxury juggernaut’s trademark cologne, has racked up every plaudit worth mentioning. (There’s a reason it routinely tops GQ’s rankings, and it only partially has to do with that dialed-in formula.) Just this past week, though, the citrus-y fragrance added another feather to its crowded cap: a cosign from a rising star named Timothée Chalamet, who kicked off his tenure as the new face of the scent with a promo spot directed by some guy named Martin Scorsese. It’s the actor’s first major brand campaign, and he couldn’t have picked a better product to shill. 

For one, Bleu boasts a long history of cinematic advertisements, many of them shot by Scorsese. (In 2010, the Killers of the Flower Moon director worked with the late French actor Gaspard Ulliel on a glossy short film tied to the fragrance.) For another, the luxe cologne is a perennial favorite of Hollywood big shots, and yet its price—a mere 96 bucks for the smallest size—falls squarely into everyman range. (A very Chalamet dichotomy!)  

In the decade-plus that Bleu has been around, the fragrance has endeared itself to Tinseltown stars and scores of Averages Joes looking to borrow some of their wattage thanks to its highfalutin marketing—but its killer blend of sweet citrus, earthy incense, and spicy ginger make it worthy of your pulse points all on its own. After so many years, it remains a quintessential day-to-night fragrance, the type of cologne you spritz on before a big meeting with the boss, a big meeting with the in-laws, or on a regular ol' weekday when you just need to smell your swaggering best. 

All of which is to say: the buzzy scent doesn’t need to do much to sell itself. We’re not always moved by celebrity endorsements, but in this case, the Chalamet seal of approval feels like pure kismet—and Bleu De Chanel feels like the fragrance upgrade your bureau has been begging for.

Bleu de Chanel is available for purchase at Chanel.com

By now you know how essential hydration is to keeping your skin looking and feeling healthy and radiant. But what you may not realize is that moisturizing your skin twice a day may not be enough. A solid skin care routine that provides your skin with the hydration it needs requires some maneuvering and at times, product hacking.

Considering that most skin care products have high concentrations of water in them, it’s no surprise that they can be effective at helping to maintain hydration in the skin — that is, if you're choosing products wisely and applying them correctly. But, there are other aspects of your life that can influence how hydrated or dehydrated your skin is. Keep reading to learn the difference between dry skin and dehydrated skin, plus, how to properly hydrate your skin and tips to add to your daily skin regiment to boost hydration.

Why Is Skin Hydration Important? 
According to the Mayo Clinic, roughness and loss of elasticity can occur if the outermost layer of the skin does not contain enough water. These symptoms detract from a glowing complexion, contribute to dullness, texture and can be uncomfortable, too. While there’s much debate about whether or not increasing your water intake can actually make your skin appear more hydrated, we do know that skin care can help.

What is Hydrated Skin?
Hydrated skin looks plump, smooth and sometimes naturally glowy because it has enough water to support and strengthen it. It doesn’t have a flaky texture and it shouldn’t feel rough, tight or uncomfortable. A good indication of hydrated skin is when you pinch it, it settles back into place immediately.

What Causes Dehydrated Skin?
Dehydrated skin lacks water so things like dry weather, excess caffeine or alcohol consumption and hot showers can lead to a dehydrated complexion. Note that all of these things draw moisture from the skin, thus leading to bouts of dehydration. And it doesn’t matter if you naturally have oily skin or dry skin —  all skin types can experience dehydration. 

While many argue that decreased water intake can lead to dehydrated skin, the Mayo Clinic reports a lack of research showing that water consumption impacts the skin’s hydration or appearance. 

What’s the Difference Between Dry Skin and Dehydrated Skin?
Differentiating between dry skin and dehydrated skin can be difficult when you don’t know what to look for. Remember that dehydrated skin is a skin concern, dry skin is a skin type. Dehydrated skin lacks water and looks dull and flat. Dry skin lacks oils which makes it flaky and tight. All skin types can deal with dehydration and it can be eliminated with conscious lifestyle practices and a hydrating skin care routine. Dry skin is usually genetic, kind of like a perpetual dryness that consistently needs to be addressed. Although, you can experience dryness as the seasons change and the moisture in the air decreases. As for appearance, dehydrated skin is flat and dull. The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) also states that dehydrated skin has more noticeable fine lines and skin texture. If you have oily skin that’s also dehydrated, your skin may look extra greasy and lackluster with increased breakouts.  Dry skin is flakey, tight and rough in texture. According to the AAD, it may even be itchy or painful if the skin is dry enough to crack.

What’s the Difference Between Moisturizing and Hydrating?
Hydrating products absorb into the skin to increase the water content. Moisturizing products lock in moisture to keep the skin hydrated, creating a protective barrier that prevents water loss. Dry skin needs to be moisturized whereas dehydrated skin needs to be hydrated. Hydrating and moisturizing products work well together to hydrate skin, lock in moisture and improve the appearance of your skin. Dry or dehydrated skin is going to look lackluster and drab, whereas hydrated skin that is able to retain moisture is going to look healthy, glowy and plump. While moisturizing and hydrating are a little different in the way they work, they work very well together and you need both to keep your skin hydrated.

How to Test Skin Hydration Levels
To quickly test hydration levels in your body, pinch the wrinkled skin on your knuckle and make note of how quickly it returns to its normal state. If the pinched skin stays in place, you’re dehydrated, if it quickly smoothes out, you’re adequately hydrated.

How Can I Hydrate My Skin Fast?
If your skin is already starting to feel parched, it may be getting tight and uncomfortable. If that’s the case you’re likely wondering how you can get some hydration relief quickly. Incorporate these easy tips into your routine to help your skin get and retain moisture. 

1. Use a Moisturizer With Hyaluronic Acid Regardless of your skin type, it’s important to pick a moisturizer with hydrating ingredients. Look for one that's formulated with hyaluronic acid, which helps to enhance skin hydration. Along with hyaluronic acid, ceramides, glycerin and aloe are hydrating ingredients that can help deliver water to skin cells while strengthening the skin barrier.

2. Try Water-Based Skin Care Products If you have oily skin and feel like most moisturizers are too heavy or greasy, don’t neglect applying moisturizer altogether. Instead, reach for one with a water-based formula which can aid in hydration while remaining lightweight on the skin. 

3. Apply Moisturizer On Damp Skin According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), applying occlusives一moisturizing agents that provide a protective layer on the skin and prevent water loss 一 on damp skin is most effective at sealing in moisture. Additionally, the AAD recommends applying moisturizer no more than five minutes after a bath or shower to draw in moisture. So, in order to seal in as much hydration as possible, apply moisturizer on your face and body right after washing, when the skin is still damp.

4. Don’t Forget a Hydrating Serum Incorporating a hydrating serum can be helpful in boosting the skin’s water content because serums have a high concentration of active ingredients. You should opt for a serum with hyaluronic acid.

How Can I Hydrate My Dry Skin?
As the weather gets colder for many, dry skin becomes the norm — but that doesn’t mean you have to settle for it. Whether you have constantly dry skin or you’re just noticing dry patches and stiffness due to the cool air, follow these tips for hydrating dry skin at any time of year.

1. Use a Gentle Cleanser 
While cleansing excess oil and dirt from the skin is essential, some cleansers are simply too abrasive for certain skin types. According to the AAD, oily skin can also benefit from a gentle cleanser because harsh ingredients and formulas can trigger increased oil production and increased dryness. If your oily skin feels uncharacteristically dry, it may be something as simple as your daily cleanser.

2. Use an Eye Serum
Whether you have dry skin or oily skin, the eye area is often one of the first places to show signs of thirst. Just like serums with hyaluronic acid are great for the rest of the face, they can be highly beneficial for the eye area, too. 

3. Use Facial Spray for Midday Moisture
In those moments when you wish you could replenish your skin’s moisture in the middle of the day but don’t want to disrupt your makeup, grab a facial spray for help. Look for one with hydrating coconut water to give skin a boost or aloe vera to soothe irritation and redness.

4. Skip the Long, Hot ShowersA steamy shower feels incredible, especially when it’s freezing outside. But long, hot showers can actually strip your skin of moisture, leaving you feeling dry — and this goes for all skin types. Instead, rinse off in lukewarm water and apply moisturizer when your skin is still wet post-shower. That will help lock in moisture and keep dryness away. If you can’t help but turn the temperatures up, be sure to keep your showers brief. The less time you spend submerging yourself in super-hot water, the better you’ll be able to play defense against dry skin. If you can, it’s also a good idea to shield your hair and your face from the hot water because it can easily strip moisture from both.

5. Switch Your Products With the Season 
The moisturizer you use in the summer may not be as effective in the winter. You may find that your skin is drier in the winter (again, you can thank the low moisture levels in the air for that) and that means that a rich cream could help provide much-needed hydration. It’s always best to evaluate the state of your skin and make adjustments accordingly.

6. Add Water-Rich Foods to Your Diet
While your daily water intake may not be a huge factor in your dry complexion, the Cleveland Clinic recommends upping your intake of water-rich foods like watermelon, cucumbers and celery. Watermelon contains lycopene which helps to protect cells against sun damage while also improving the appearance of your complexion. Cucumbers aid in anti-aging efforts and also help to reduce redness.

On a gentle slope looking out over Lebanon’s Bekaa Valley, villagers work their way across pink-dotted terraces, gathering perfumes Damask roses that are used for essential oils, sweets and cosmetics. The rose harvest "gives you a bit of hope, it makes things beautiful, it calms you down — it gives you strength to carry on", said Leila al-Dirani, picking the flowers from her family’s land in the village. A soft bag tied around her waist and her hands scratched from the thorns, the 64-year-old plucks the small, pink buds from their bushes as their rich and heady scent wafts across the hill.

Widely used in perfumes and cosmetics, the oil derived from the famed Damask rose --- named after the ancient city of Damascus located just across the mountain range separating Lebanon and Syria — is a staple of perfumers. Rose water derived from the flower is also used across the Middle East both as a refreshing drink, in sweets such as Turkish delight, to scent mosques and even to bestow luck at weddings.

After a morning collecting roses, the workers in Qsarnaba drop their fragrant bundles at a warehouse in the village. At the facility carpeted with pink petals, Zahraa Sayed Ahmed — whose first name means "flower" — buys the raw materials to produce her rose water, syrup, tea and jam.
Around four years ago, she set up a small workshop at her house, using a traditional metal still that "belonged to my grandfather", said Sayed Ahmed, 37.

“Roses help put food on the table”With a kilogramme (2.2 pounds) of rose petals, she said she can make up to half a litre of rose water. She then also bottles and labels her modest production by hand, putting it on limited sale locally. "The production of rose water is a part of our heritage," said Sayed Ahmed. "In every home in Qsarnaba there is a still, even if it’s just a small one."

The rose season only lasts a few weeks, but it is a busy time for Qsarnaba’s residents. "This year is the first year that we didn’t bring workers to help us because the production is low and we couldn’t afford it," said Hassan al-Dirani, 25, who has been picking the flowers alongside his mother, Leila.
Since late 2019, Lebanon has been grappling with a devastating economic crisis that has seen the local currency collapse and pushed most of the population into poverty.

"The rose harvest and all other harvests have lost about 80 percent of their value... because of the economic crisis," said local official Daher al-Dirani, who hails from the extended family that is the biggest in Qsarnaba. "But the roses help people put food on the table," he added.
Exported from Syria to Europe for centuries since the time of the Crusades, the ancient Damask rose is also cultivated in countries including France, Morocco, Iran and Turkey.

"Our village produces the most roses out of any village in Lebanon" and more than half of the country’s rose water, Sayed Ahmed claimed proudly, as the captivating scent lingered in the air. "Qsarnaba is the village of roses."

How often you should wash your hair, it seems, really boils down to personal preference. Right? Not so fast. The answer to that question is murky, for the most part — but there are a few factors to keep in mind. First, there's the matter of stripping your scalp of its natural oils when you overwash, or wash your hair every day when you don't need to, which is something you want to avoid. "Then, you must consider your hair type, hair texture, scalp condition, damage, and the style you wear," Kevin Mancuso, a hairstylist tells Bougeoir Oh, and don't forget your environment. ("If you live in a polluted city, you're going to want to wash your hair more frequently than you probably do," he says.) So, how often should you "do" it? We asked a handful of experts — from a hairstylist to a dermatologist to a colorist — for their opinion on how many times you should be washing your hair a week. That way you can consider the search, well, done.

How Often You Should Wash Your Hair, According to a Hairstylist
Generally speaking, and from a hairstylist's perspective, how often to suds up depends on your hair type as well as how oily your roots get. For example: "If you have an oily scalp, washing your hair every day or every other day can be good for it, especially if you have fine, straight, wavy, or curly hair and you are seeking volume and lift at the root," says Mancuso. "If your hair is very curly to 4c, daily washing may not be practical if your styling requirements are laborious. In this case, I suggest washing as frequently as you can (every two weeks should do). If you have a dry scalp, this doesn't necessarily mean you get a free pass to a filthy scalp, but I have many clients whose hair looks amazing after three days and beyond."

TLDR; It depends on your hair type. Wash your hair every day or every other day if you have an oily scalp and fine, straight, wavy, or looser curls. For dryer scalps, every three to four days is best. If you have kinky coils or 4c curls, suds up every other week. 

How Often You Should Wash Your Hair, According to a Dermatologist
Dermatologists are concerned about one thing: your skin — and that extends to your scalp. Still, when it comes to your scalp health, dermatologist Francesca Fusco, MD, says there is no "golden rule" for the amount of times you should wash your hair a week — and it's not necessarily "bad" for your skin to shampoo every day. "If a person is oily, it's fine to wash it every day. If they are dry, it's fine to wash it once a week, but once a week at least for hygienic purposes," Dr. Fusco says. (She clarifies that this is because product can build up on the scalp, potentially leading to clogged pores, irritation, or flakes.) "Individuals with dandruff should shampoo at least twice a week using an antidandruff shampoo."

TLDR; Once a week at minimum, unless you have dandruff, in which case twice a week with treatment shampoo is recommended. 

How Often You Should Wash Your Hair, According to a Colorist
Anyone who frequently dyes their hair knows that washing it too much can dull your colour. That's why as a general rule, colourist Stephanie Brown says people with colour-treated hair shouldn't suds up more than every other day.  "If you have drier hair, try waiting a little longer," she says. "You want your hair to absorb some of your natural oils so it's strong and shiny. If you feel like you need to wash your hair more often, use a substitute, like a co-wash or cleansing conditioner.

TLDR; If you have color-treated hair, don't wash your hair more than every other day. Try to go at least three to four days without shampooing if you can to preserve the color. 

​Believe it or not, there's a right and wrong way to take off your eye makeup. And it's not just about what you're using, but rather how you're using it. These days, makeup is long-lasting, budge-proof, and often waterproof. As such, it's important to use a makeup remover that's ready to handle the job. If you use poorly made eye-makeup remover, you'll have to work harder  to remove it.

We spoke to a few renowned makeup artists and dermatologists to get the skinny on the best technique and products to use. Unsurprisingly, they all agreed on one thing: Pulling or tugging at your skin results in damage and breakage of delicate blood vessels. You can easily tear the thin sensitive skin area around your eyes.

Below are everything you need to know to remove stubborn makeup without aging your skin in the process. 

Gently Remove Eye Makeup
Before touching your face, wash your hands to prevent transferring bacteria to your face and eye irritation. "With your first step done (you've chosen a good quality and effective remover), the technique you use to apply the remover is next," says Rachel Nazarian, MD, an NYC-based dermatologist. "Avoid using scrubbing or rough rubbing methods. Gentle dabbing and soft circular movements should be enough to lift the eye makeup off, without traumatizing the skin."
While makeup cloths conveniently remove dirt, they leave behind residue. Wash your face with a gentle cleanser after disposing of the cloth. To try to avoid irritation, use a fragrance-and-alcohol-free wipe.

Rinse Off Your Eye Remover
"Although many people skip this step, remember that makeup remover contains many ingredients and chemicals that make it shelf-stable, and you don't want those chemicals, or any residue, left on your skin. It's the buildup of all these preservatives and residue that can lead to early skin aging. Find a gentle soap and quickly rinse." 

Soak Your Makeup
"Soaking' the eyes with cotton pads is a very gentle way of removing eye makeup," says Honey artist Robert Greene. He recommends, "Cover your entire eye area with the gel, remembering to get your under-eye area as well. Spray two cotton pads and place them over your eyes like cucumbers. Wiggle the pads gently to help break down your makeup for about 15 seconds, and repeat if necessary. Any leftover makeup should be removed by using Q-tips, especially around the lash line. I like to finish this process by placing liberally sprayed cotton pads with a Thermal Spring Water over the eyes to help soothe." Treat yourself to spa-level care even on the long days where you're tempted to skip washing your face, use a makeup wipe, and call it a night.

Double Cleanse Stubborn Makeup
Layers of sunscreen and waterproof makeup don't stand a chance against a cleansing oil. Soak a cotton pad with makeup oil and gently swipe from the inner corner of your eye and outwards. The oil breaks down the makeup and helps lift it from your skin and eyelashes or use a double cleansing face wash. Once applied, the balm turns into a silky oil, allowing your makeup to slide off your face.
If you’re only using a cleansing oil, the greasy residue may act as a barrier and won’t let your eye cream penetrate properly. You want the skin to be clean and bare to allow the active ingredients from eye creams to penetrate deep within the skin and deliver the best results.

Look For Active Ingredients
The term "active ingredient" may sound like the product will tingle or burn, but it means that the ingredients address the skin concerns you're targeting. If you do feel a burning sensation, your skin may be reacting negatively. To test how your skin will react to new ingredients, clean the inside of your forearm, and swatch the product. Wait 24 hours to see how your skin responds. So when you're wiping away your makeup you're not left with irritated skin," says celebrity makeup artist Kira Nasrat. 

Take Care of Sensitive Skin
Makeup removers for sensitive skin can protect your under-eye area as it is purported to be one of the first places to show aging on the face. Celebrity esthetician Renée Rouleau explains, "It’s so important to treat this area gently. It is subjected to a lot of wear and tear from smiling, squinting, and rubbing of the eyes, which translates into wrinkles and fine lines." For eye makeup removal, Rouleau always suggests using a "liquid, oil-free, fragrance-free, no-sting eye makeup remover" as they don’t contain "irritants and oils that can seep into the eyes and cause unnecessary under-eye puffiness." Rouleau instructs, "Apply eye makeup remover to a lint-free toning cloth and gently press down on the eye, holding for 20 seconds. This gives your eye makeup a chance to dissolve to avoid unnecessary rubbing and touching. Then, after 20 seconds, wipe away your eye makeup and mascara in downward motions. Move the pad in an upward direction to get underneath the top lashes. Voilà!"

Fold Your Cotton Pad
To maximize the use of your cotton pad, fold the unused section over with each swipe. Using the same side of the cotton pad will redeposit the makeup you removed. Rouleau suggests, "Wipe away your eye makeup and mascara in downward motions. Flip the pad or cloth over and move in an upward direction to get underneath the top lashes." Using this method will save you from reaching for multiple cotton pads. 

Keep Your Skin Moisturized
After you have applied eye cream to your freshly washed face, your skin should feel a bit damp. Instead of waiting for your skin to dry, seal hydration into your skin with a moisturizer. Forgot this step? Spray a facial mist or hydrating toner to bring the moisture back to your face.

If you’re shopping around for a night cream, consider the following tips to choose the best one for your skin. Choose the right products for your skin's needs, avoid harmful ingredients, and understand how to use a night cream for the best results.

Reasons for Using a Night Cream
Your skin is made up of several layers. Over time, each layer thins and loses the structure it had when you were younger because collagen, the protein that keeps your skin firm, depletes.‌
While your skin naturally ages with time, exposure to the sun and other environmental factors can speed the appearance of aging. You may begin to notice lines, wrinkles, and sagging. Your skin may get drier as moisture escapes more easily. Luckily, products like night creams can offer protection and healing to your skin while you sleep.


Day Cream Vs. Night Cream
What is the difference between a day cream and a night cream? Why do you need both? A day cream is lightweight and should contain a sunscreen of at least 15 SPF to protect your skin from sun exposure. Day creams also contain vitamin C to offer brightness to your skin and even your skin’s pigment and appearance.‌ A night cream should have different ingredients and consistency than a day cream. Night creams are thicker and contain ingredients designed to moisturize and repair damage to your skin.


Ingredients to Look For in Night Cream
When it comes to choosing a night cream, brands and prices aren’t that important. Instead, you should consider your skin care needs and look for ingredients that are best for your skin.‌

Retinols. This anti-aging ingredient comes from vitamin A. It helps to lessen the signs of aging like fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots. It also brightens your skin to improve your complexion. If you have sensitive skin, be careful about using too much retinol because it can cause irritation. If your night cream contains retinol, start out using it a few times a week and increase as you learn how your skin tolerates it.‌

Alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta-hydroxy acids. These ingredients come from fruit. They help improve your skin’s appearance if it is dull or ashy. These acids also provide gentle exfoliation that helps your night cream reach the deeper layers of your skin.

Hyaluronic acid. This ingredient takes in moisture to your skin and locks it in. It makes your skin appear plump to reduce fine lines and wrinkles. If your night cream contains hyaluronic acid, you should apply it while your skin is still damp to lock in additional moisture and maximize your results.‌

Vitamin E. Antioxidant properties help your skin stay moisturized and improve your complexion.‌

Resveratrol. Another antioxidant, this ingredient helps to reduce the effects of stress on your skin.‌

Ceramides. This protein offers protection to the outer layer of your skin. It locks in moisture and protects your skin from environmental toxins. ‌

Glycerin. This moisturizer helps repair damage. ‌

Lactic acid. This exfoliant helps to remove your outer layer of dead skin cells so that other ingredients can reach your deeper layers of skin. 

At this point, the importance of applying (and reapplying) sunscreen whenever you're outside has been drilled into your head. But what if you are inside all day? Do you really need to wear sunscreen indoors? According to the experts, yes. It's equally—if not more—paramount to apply SPF even when you're inside.

Here's why: Sunlight contains ultraviolet (UV) radiation. There are two main types of UV rays on the spectrum, UVA and UVB. UVB rays have a shorter wavelength and are responsible for producing sunburn. UVA (aging) rays are much stronger and are responsible for issues like discoloration, fine lines, and all those other little things we don't like about our skin. Too much exposure can also lead to more severe skin conditions,  including the big C word.

The Problem With UVA Rays 
This means that if you're spending time in a room with a significant amount of access to sunlight—even through glass windows—it will have quite a similar effect as if you were outdoors. "While glass blocks UVB rays, UVA rays can still penetrate," says Deanne Mraz Robinson, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist in Westport, Connecticut. "UVA rays are primarily known for their role in accelerating the signs of aging by breaking down elastin and collagen, but they also damage DNA in skin cells, producing mutations that can lead to skin cancer."

To further add to the importance of wearing sunscreen indoors, there's another type of light on the spectrum that affects your skin—and this one doesn't come from the sun. "As we continue to spend more and more time indoors, it's important for people to remember that most devices with screens actually emit HEV light, otherwise known as blue light," says Sameer Bashey, MD, a board-certified dermatologic surgeon in New York and Beverly Hills, Calif. "Examples of these include your cell phone, computers, and televisions." This high-energy visible light has been shown to penetrate deep into the skin and result in damage like hyperpigmentation and melasma.

The Amount of Sunscreen Needed Inside 
Now that we all know you should be wearing sunscreen, how muchsunscreen should you wear? "With sunscreen, it's best to get into a habit that doesn't change even when sheltering in place," says Craig Kraffert, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Redding, California. "People are creatures of habit, so the best idea is to not change one's daily sunscreen habits, despite the current situation."

That being said, wearing a broad spectrum SPF 30 or higher is recommended by the American Academy of Dermatology and is the minimal dosage for protecting against those harmful rays. Make sure to cover your entire face, as well as your neck and hands, on a daily basis as these are the areas most prone to aging.

​We’ve spent plenty of time roaming through Sephora (in addition to the hours spent scrolling through their digital counterparts), and we can confirm there are zillions of products on the market that contain SPF. The trend goes past foundation and tinted moisturizer, veering into a whole new realm of lip balm and lipstick, finishing powder and even face mists. Don’t get us wrong, this excites us just as much as you telling your dermatologist you wear face sunscreen daily, but it leaves us a little skeptical, too. If you’ve found yourself wondering if the SPF in your makeup is enough to protect your skin from the sun, look no further. We reached out to NY-based dermatologist Hadley King, MD, for her expert opinion on the subject. 
​
You Need a Shot Glass of Product to be Protected
“An important issue to consider when using moisturizers, primers and makeup with SPF is how much you need to apply to achieve the advertised SPF,” King explains. “You should use approximately 2 mg of product per square centimeter of skin. In practice, this means applying the equivalent of a shot glass of sunblock to the exposed area of the face and body — a nickel-sized dollop to the face alone.” 

If You Can’t Use a Shot Glass of Foundation, Re-Consider Your Options
“If you don't feel that you can use this much of a product like tinted moisturizer, then you may prefer to use this much primer with SPF and then use a smaller amount of makeup,” Dr. King explains. 

Be Sure to Reapply Every Two Hours We get it — it’s not easy to reapply sunscreen when you’re wearing makeup. But an easy way to do so is with a mineral powder sunscreen that doubles as a setting powder, like Brush On Block. Because it’s transparent, your makeup will stay perfectly intact. There are also makeup refreshing sprays with SPFs.

The sun has a different effect on our lips than on the rest of our face. They face the risk of getting sunburned. The skin on our lips is more vascular, which means there are more blood vessels that increase the blood flow to our lips. That is why our lips have a pink or purple colour. However, the lips have the same layers and basic components as the rest of our skin. Our lips are protected by the epidermis, or the outermost layer, which is largely composed of keratinocytes. The lower lip needs extra protection because a person is more likely to develop skin cancer here than on the upper lip. The lower lip is more prone to sunburn because it protrudes from the face and gets more sun exposure. Just like any other body part, increased UV radiation can damage the DNA of skin cells over time and may lead to the development of cancerous cells.

The first signs of sunburn generally develop within 2–5 hours following exposure to the sun, with the full range of symptoms showing within 24 hours. Increased sensitivity, dryness, tightness, burning, and mild swelling are symptoms of sunburned lips. For more severe burns, the lips may feel more tender, and blisters and cracks may appear.

Treatments for sunburned lips
You can treat sunburned lips with healing and cooling ointments. Some of the traditional remedies used for sunburns on the body may not be as good for your lips. There is the possibility of you ingesting what you apply to your lips.

Cold compresses
To reduce the hot feeling on your lips, you can use a cold compress. Take a soft washcloth, rinse it in cold water, and let it rest on your lips. Another option is to dip the cloth in iced water. Keep in mind not to ice your burn directly.

Aloe vera
The aloe vera plant’s soothing gel can be useful in easing sunburn-related pains. If you have an aloe vera plant at home, you can cut out a leaf, take out its gel, and apply it to your lips. You can even buy after-sun gels at most drugstores. For your lips, purchase only the gels that are made of 100 percent aloe vera. You can also store the gel in the refrigerator to get a cooler feeling.

Moisturizer
Adding moisture to irritated skin can help soothe and protec .. it while it heals. For instance, applying a topical moistur .. can be useful. Remember to avoid moisturizers that contain petroleum because they lock the heat from the sunburn onto y our skin  

If there's one thing we can say about acne, it's a skin condition that seems to have a mind of its own. Breakouts can persist despite how well and often you wash your face (hopefully not too often!). The truth is that treating acne is two fold: You want to tackle existing breakouts while preventing new breakouts from occurring. A skincare routine that takes advantage of the best acne-busting ingredients can help. If you're not sure where to start with the science of it all, we asked dermatologists to recommend the best acne-fighting ingredients you can use on a regular basis.

Salicylic Acid (BHA) 
Salicylic Acid is a beta-hydroxy acid, and arguably one of the most effective ingredients for treating acne. “It helps by unclogging pores and controlling oil, and is ideal for people with oily skin and comedonal—AKA non-inflammatory—acne,” says Caroline Robinson, MD, board-certified dermatologist. 

Willow Bark 
A mild sister to salicylic acid, willow bark is a natural ingredient that’s been scientifically shown to improve current breakouts while preventing future bouts of acne. “The polyphenols in willow bark tackle free radicals on the skin’s surface and the salicin fights inflammation,” says Michelle Henry, MD, a board-certified dermatologist. She adds that some studies have even shown improvements of wrinkles and texture when applied topically.

Hydrocolloid 
Hydrocolloid bandages were originally intended to heal mild wounds, like burns or bed sores. However, people discovered that they worked wonders on acne by bringing pimples to a head and flattening them quickly. These waterproof seals essentially work by drawing out infection and pus, and they also create a moisture-rich environment that’s beneficial to healing. Today, you’ll find small sized hydrocolloid bandages for pimples, and they’re incredibly effective.  

Retinol 
You’ve probably heard of retinoids being touted as an anti-aging hero, but did you know this ingredient got its start as an acne treatment? “As the mainstay therapy for acne, retinoids and retinol have incredible track records in treating common skin concerns,” notes Dr. Henry. “Retinol helps unclog pores, exfoliate the skin, and increase collagen deposition.” It’s kind of a two-birds-one-stone situation where you’re treating acne and also enjoying some anti-aging benefits. 

Adapalene 
Some skin types don’t tolerate retinoids very well since this ingredient can be a bit drying and irritating. That’s where adapalene comes in, an acne ingredient with over three decades of research showcasing its efficacy. Anderson says, “Adapalene is a gentle, well tolerated and effective derivative of a retinoid that treats acne. It’s a go-to for acne patients who are intolerant to tretinoin and other prescription strength retinoids.”

Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs)
AHAs—which include glycolic acid, lactic acid, and mandelic acid, among others—are powerful peeling agents that exfoliate the top layer of skin. This nixes dead skin cells, brightens the skin, and helps unclog pores. “AHAs are effective in clearing acne by weakening cellular adhesions and removing medium-depth acne scars or hyperpigmentation, ultimately leading to even skin tone and complexity,” explains Dr. Henry.

Tea Tree Oil 
If you prefer natural ingredients to treat acne, tea tree oil is a top contender. It's a powerful antibacterial and anti-inflammatory ingredient that can help minimize breakouts and keep skin clear. One thing to note is that it’s very strong, so the pure essential oil should be diluted instead of applied directly to your skin. To be safe, use a pre-formulated product. 

Niacinamide 
Niacinamideis an excellent skincare ingredient for minimizing hyperpigmentation caused by acne, explains Dr. Robinson. It can also help with skin hydration, which is super important for skin repair. She says, “By hydrating and strengthening the skin's moisture barrier niacinamide can help improve acne and post-acne marks over the long term.” 

Sulfur 
It may be a bit on the smelly side, but sulfur is a known effective acne ingredient that can help clear up your skin. “Sulfur helps absorb excess oil from the skin's oil glands, allowing congestion to be minimized,” Anderson explains. “Specifically, it is an antibacterial ingredient that helps to fight acne bacteria (P. acnes) to reduce inflammation and prevent future breakouts.”

Any decent perfumer will tell you that scent is utterly personal—the same fragrance will react differently on everyone, giving off a different scent. There are so many variables that can affect the way you smell scent—whether that’s on yourself or someone else. We’ve been convinced for years that there are a few universal scents that everyone gets attracted too. Read on below to find out which ones

​​Patchouli 
Patchouli is a "warm" ingredient, says Freide, which is included in Chanel's Chance perfume. As one of the most popular fragrances in the Chanel scent range, it's easy to see why people love this: It's sexy without being overpowering, thanks to the inclusion of vanilla and the powdery orris. 

Rose 
While many associate rose with being a mature scent, it's actually very European. Freide revealed that the French love a floral scent the most. So if you're keen to give off that French-girl vibe, then making sure rose is in your perfume could be the way forward.

Bergamot 
Bergamot is key when it comes to creating seductive scents. We personally love the Jo Malone London Oud & Bergamot Cologne Intense, which contains just the right amount of bergamot as a top note with some stronger woody base notes to anchor its black musk.

Vetiver 
The grass plant vetiver is used in 90 percent of all Western fragrances, but there are a few that really stand out, such as the unisex Vetyverio from Diptique. It's a strong, confidence-inducing scent that is sure to make you feel like the most powerful person in the room.

Cedarwood 
Cedarwood is one of those scents that evokes mystery and intrigue. Our pick for top cedarwood-containing fragrance is the Jo Malone London Black Cedarwood and Juniper Cologne. "Evocative of midnight rain" reads the description of this scent—and we're attracted to it for its mysterious—but also warm and woody—notes.
​
Sandalwood 
While this isn't everyone's cup of tea, the sweet and woody scent of this ingredient can be intoxicating. Monsieur Beauregard from Penhaligon's is our current favorite in the Byrdie office (even the office handyman asked us to douse him in it, such is its appeal).

Can’t seem to nail your base routine? Here are the top tips for cake-free foundation we’ve picked up straight from the pros…

From the amount of foundation on your skin to the way you’re layering your base, find all the top tips you need for a perfect base every time.

TIP 1: UP THE ANTE ON YOUR HYDRATING STEPS
When it comes to a truly skin-like, flawless base, skin prep is by far the most important step in your base routine. If nothing else, make sure your skin is adequately hydrated. Applying just enough prep so that your skin feels bouncy to the touch, but not sticky or heavy. If possible, let the hydrating prep products absorb into your skin for at least five minutes before moving on to the next step.

TIP 2: GO FEATHER-LIGHT ON THE FOUNDATION
If you’re chronically online like us, you’ll know that the latest trend to hit the TikTok sphere is that of using a spatula to apply foundation for the most flawless base. Now, it’s not exactly a practical step, but the idea behind it is solid—a spatula allows you to apply as little product as possible in as even a layer as possible, so you can have even coverage that doesn’t go overboard. Obviously, this technique is not so friendly for textured skin. That said, it’s easy to achieve the same effect by just applying your foundation in thin layers and buffing generously, topping up only in areas where you really need more coverage.

Skip Foundation Altogether
If you’re blessed with beautiful skin already (or you’re comfortable), skipping your foundation and going straight to concealer is a great option to reduce the cakiness in your base! The idea is that you want the least amount of product on your skin possible.

TIP 3: LET YOUR FOUNDATION DRY DOWN BEFORE YOU POWDER
If you find that your foundation tends to cake and/or oxidise even when you’re following every other step to a T, you might want to give it a few moments before layering your powder over top. Use a portable fan or a hairdryer on cool to dry down your foundation before your powder step to ensure that the powder doesn’t congeal with the liquid layers—this is what causes the dreaded heavy, cakey effect and unsightly creasing in your foundation!

TIP 4: MAKE SURE YOU’RE APPLYING YOUR LAYERS IN THE CORRECT ORDER
According to Daniel, the biggest mistake people make with their bases is layering cream or liquid textures over areas that have already been set with powder. Once your skin has been set, it’s going to be much more difficult to blend liquid or cream textures seamlessly, and it’s likely that you’ll be congealing the products and, therefore, causing cakiness. One way around this is to use a setting spray to melt the textures together again. This basically helps you rehydrate the area to help those cream and liquid textures blend in better, and it has the additional benefit of helping you re-set your makeup.

TIP 5: USE AS LITTLE POWDER AS POSSIBLE
Similarly, you’ll want to avoid layering too much powder over areas that have already been set. For example, if you’re applying a powdered blush over your cheeks, be mindful of how much setting powder you’re applying over the top of that— the more powder layers you have, the cakier your finish will be.

Alternatively, use a finely-milled powder for layering—this way you can afford to use a little more without the risk of cakiness. You can also use oil blotting strips to reduce excess shine on the skin instead if you’re looking to avoid too much powder.

We’re endlessly fascinated by French women’s beauty routines—mainly because it doesn’t seem like they really have one. No, they’re just effortlessly cooler than we’ll ever dream of being, and though we’re slowly coming to terms with that fact (kidding, we’ll never stop trying to emulate Marion Cotillard), we haven’t stopped trying to decipher every facet of their laissez-faire beauty routines.
Thus, when we stumbled on the French skincare secret that is micellar water, our Francophile hearts leapt with joy and wonder. Was this product the secret to French women’s hydrated-but-never-oily complexions? Is this why every French It girl ever interviewed always says, “Not much,” when asked about what she uses on her face?

We spoke with Simple Skincare’s advisory board member and Beverly Hills-based dermatologist Debra Luftman, MD, and Rachel Nazarian, MD, of Schweiger Dermatology Group to get their input on what this magical water does and what our skin benefits from using it over tap water. 

Keep scrolling to find out why micellar water is a serious beauty game changer


What Is Micellar Water? 
First things first—what exactly is the “micellar” in micellar water? “Micellar water contains small particles called micelles,” Luftman explains. “They work like a miniature sponge, mopping up dirt and makeup while hydrating your skin. Micelles have an oil-loving ‘tail’ that traps dirt, oil, and makeup and a water-loving ‘head’ that allows the micelles to dissolve impurities so they can easily be wiped away.” So that all sounds way, way better than the regular water we use to wash our face—and it is.

In fact, Luftman explains that the reason micellar water is so popular in France is because of the notoriously hard water in Paris, which may be extremely harsh on the skin. “Micellar waters are super-gentle, so they won’t strip or irritate the skin while cleansing,” she says. “All skin types can benefit from micellar water, but I especially recommend it for those with dry, sensitive, or acne-prone skin. 

“Oil droplets in soft water are actually quite hydrating to dry skin and don’t disrupt the natural pH of skin like foaming cleansers,” says Nazarian. “It’s also great for people who travel a lot and don’t always have access to water: micellar water will clean most makeup, oil, and dirt with just a swipe of a cotton ball.”

The Benefits of Micellar Water 

• Gentler than traditional cleansers
• Easily removes makeup
• More hydrating than makeup wipes
• Most formulas are alcohol-free
• Micelles draw out pore-clogging oils

How to Use Micellar Water 

• As a makeup remover: If you're wearing heavier makeup or sunscreen, we recommend using micellar water as a makeup remover, then following up with your favorite gentle cleanser. To use as a makeup remover, soak a cotton pad in your favorite micellar formulas and gently sweep where you have makeup. For eye makeup, it's recommended to press the cotton pad onto the eye area for a few seconds to help loosen the makeup before you sweep it away.
• As a cleanser: To use micellar water, you simply pour it into a cotton pad and rub it over your face, like a toner. Then, just carry on with your skincare routine as normal—no need to rinse afterward. “Micellar water can replace any daily cleansing routine,” Luftman says. “I recommend using it in the morning, followed by an SPF moisturizer, and again in the evening followed by a night cream.”
• As a toner: To use micellar water as a toner, first start by using a gentle cleanser on the face. Then, pour some micellar water into your hands and pat the formula into the skin.

There’s a good chance you’ve dutifully slathered your favorite facial creams for years now, but are you sure you’ve figured out the best way to apply your moisturizer? According to dermatologists, there’s an art to the process that helps ensure you’re getting the most out of this crucial skincare routine step. Read on for the full details, which include everything from how often you should apply moisturizer, where it falls in your regimen, and pro tips for maximizing the moisturizing benefits. 

The Importance of Moisturizer 
Your skincare routine consists of the following trinity holy grail: a cleanser, sunscreen, and moisturizer. While serums and retinols and other skincare treatments are worthwhile additions, it’s truly these three core products that lay the foundation for beautiful and healthy skin. 
“Moisturizers are designed to hydrate the skin and support the skin barrier while also working to soften and smooth the skin,” says Marisa Garshick, M.D., board-certified dermatologist. “Moisturizers use key ingredients such as humectants to draw moisture in, emollients to soften and smooth the skin, and occlusives to lock moisture in.” 

Our skin consistently loses moisture through a process called “trans epidermal water loss,” also known as TEWL. We also lose oil that’s naturally produced by our body when we shower or wash our face, which makes it doubly important to replenish moisture levels and foster a healthy skin barrier.
“The skin barrier is the very outermost part of the epidermal layer that protects our bodies from environmental insults and enables the skin to hold on to moisture which prevents inflammatory skin conditions like atopic dermatitis,” notes board-certified dermatologist Lian Mack, M.D.. She adds, “Moisturizers reduce the risk of inflammatory skin conditions and add fundamental structures in the skin, improving the skin’s functionality.”

How to Choose the Best Moisturizer  
Your skin type and needs play a key role in your moisturizer selection. If you choose a product that’s not suitable for your skin type, it can lead to issues such as breakouts, irritation, or not enough moisture. 

• Acne & Oily Prone: “If you have oily or acne prone skin, reach for a moisturizer that is non-comedogenic to prevent clogging of pores and worsening of acne,” Dr. Mack advises. These are typically water-based and lightweight. 
• Dry Skin: People with dry skin can and should use heavier moisturizers. “They benefit from a cream, ointment, or thicker lotion,” notes Dr. Garshick. Shea butter, jojoba oil, glycerin, and hyaluronic acid are common ingredients in moisturizers for dry skin. 
• Sensitive Skin: Moisturizers for sensitive skin should be simple, fragrance-free formulas with barrier-boosting ingredients such as ceramides and peptides.

“During the cold, winter months, your skin may need a richer moisturizer than during the warmer months,” says Jeanette Graf, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist. Conversely, you may need a lighter product when it’s hot and humid. She adds, “Skincare should provide a pleasant feeling. So, with all of the choices available to you, use what feels good to your skin.” 

How to Apply Moisturizer: Step by Step   
Follow this step-by-step guide on the best way to apply moisturizer. 

Step One: Wash Your Face 
Prep for moisturizing by washing your face. Use a gentle, nourishing cleanser that adequately removes sweat, dirt, oil, makeup, and any lingering skincare products. In face washes for oily skin, also look for active ingredients that clarify the pores and gently exfoliate the skin. “It is important to always make sure to moisturize skin after it has been properly cleansed, as you want to make sure you are applying product to a surface that is free of bacteria, makeup, and other buildup,” Dr. Garshick explains. Gently pat dry, but don’t remove all moisture.

Step Two: Apply Other Skincare Products from Lightest to Heaviest 
If you have a full-fledged skincare routine that includes toners, serums, essences, and/or treatment products, apply your products in order of lightest to heaviest consistency while your skin is still damp. 
Note that this doesn’t include sunscreen or makeup. Also, if you’re using a wash-off skincare treatment—such as a face mask or peel—apply that after cleansing and then rinse and apply your other products in proper order. If you don’t use other skincare products, you can skip this step.

Step Three: Apply Your Moisturizer  
After slathering your other skincare products, you can apply moisturizer. Aim for about a quarter-size amount and make sure to reach every area, including your ears, hairline, neck, and decolletage. 

Application Pro Tips: 

• It’s best to apply moisturizer to damp skin, as this helps to lock in moisture. You can even give your skin a quick spritz of water before applying the moisturizer, advises board-certified dermatologist Debra Jaliman, MD. 
• Don’t press hard or rub.
• Apply in an upward motion to help create a subtle lifting effect. 
• Creams are best applied by patting them gently into the skin, notes Dr. Mack.
• Gel or water-based moisturizers should be applied in circular motions until they are completely absorbed.
• Dr. Mack says, “When applied, moisturizers should make skin feel hydrated but not oily.” If you over-apply, gently pat away excess product with a clean, damp washcloth

Step Four: Apply Sunscreen and Makeup 
In the morning, finish your skincare routine by applying sunscreen and then makeup if desired. No need to do this at night.

How Often Should You Apply Moisturizer?  
You should moisturize no less than two times per day after washing your face, and any other time you’ve showered or washed (like after exercise or swimming). However, if your skin feels very dry, Dr. Garshick recommends reapplying moisturizer in the middle of the day. You can use a lighter product or even a moisturizing spray that won’t disrupt your makeup. Dr. Mack adds that people dealing with inflammatory skin conditions, like eczema or psoriasis, may also find midday moisturizing necessary.

There is a thin line between applying fragrance that smells and feels overwhelming and intrusive and applying the scent in a way that suits your body chemistry and lets off a fierce allure. If you’re itching to get those “you always smell so good” compliments, then read on.

​Here’s the correct way you need to apply your perfume. 

Be careful about spraying perfume around your neck area.
Some use oils behind the ears to enhance the scent before going in with a fragrance followed by two or three spritzes of a preferred scent for the day/evening. However, you don’t want to spray perfume directly around your neck area. Don’t spray it on the front of your neck or around your chest area. It will be too over stimulating and you will become nose blind. (Meaning you can’t smell yourself.)
Instead, spray on the back of your neck so you’ll create a scent bubble or trail that will follow behind you as you go about your day.

Don’t rub in your fragrance.
It’s natural human instinct to rub something dry that’s wet into our skin, but when you do this, you’re “bruising” the perfume oils. Instead, spray on top of your hand and leave it to dry. This way, when you do anything with your hands, you’re leaving the whiffs of the scent that can be enjoyed by yourself and the people around you.
​
Yes, you want to buy the matching cream to the perfume.
Fragrance does not live long on dry skin. Applying the cream to your skin before the perfume enhances the full notes and experiences of the scent — setting your application to radiate an even more intense wear.
​
Hair perfume and normal perfume are not the same.
It does feel uber-sexy to spray yourself all over with your chosen scent. And while that is fine, please avoid spraying into your hair. Because of the high alcohol content in fragrances, applying fragrance to your tresses does more harm than good, as it eventually dries out the scalp in the long run. To circumvent this, if you wish to absolutely wear perfume, there are many brands that cater to hair perfumes paired with the scent. 

Split ends technically is harmless, but they are very annoying. No matter how much smoothing serum you use, too many split ends can make hair look unhealthy—which is why it’s almost always suggested to get rid of them via a haircut. But if you feel like split ends sneak up on you too quickly, there are certain practices and hair treatments that can protect against breakage and prolong healthy ends. We asked celebrity hairstylist Orlando Pita, and RyanTrygstad, co-owner of Mark Ryan Salon, for their expert tips on all things split ends—read on for their recommendations, then get thee to your stylist. 

Can You Prevent Split Ends?
Not really. “It’s impossible to prevent split ends altogether, but the best way to try and prevent them is to keep your hair moisturized and in good shape,” explains Pita. Some factors increase your likelihood of getting split ends: “If you style your hair frequently and use heat on your hair, it’s inevitable that you are going to get split ends,” says the stylist. By that same token, Ryan says you can help prevent them with a little extra TLC. “Split ends can be prevented by integrating mindfulness into your routine—being mindful and gentle when brushing and detangling the hair,” he says. “Also, you can prevent split ends by reducing thermal styling or pulling back from bleach or colour.”

Pita adds that another factor is length. “The hair also splits naturally once it reaches a certain length,” says the stylist. “I had long hair most of my life and once my hair reached a certain length, it wouldn’t grow anymore. At that point, I would get split ends even though I never applied heat to my hair.”

Can You Get Rid of Existing Split Ends?
Unfortunately, “There is no way to mend split ends,” says Ryan. “However, certain styling products like masks, protectant sprays, et cetera, will seal them and prevent them from splitting further.” Like a bad habit, the best thing you can do for split ends is to cut them off. However, as Pita points out, “The problem with split ends is that some people’s hair breaks higher in the hair, so it’s not just the ends of the hair. It’s harder to get those pieces higher on the head just by cutting the ends.” In those cases, says the stylist, “I will go back in with my razor and skim each section of hair to cut off the breakage that’s higher on the head, but that is a tedious process.”

How Often Should You Trim Your Hair to Avoid Split Ends?
Ryan recommends that clients get a trim once a season, or every two to three months. But Pita adds that there are some variables: “Everyone’s hair grows differently, at different speeds and not everyone styles their hair or uses heat on their hair.” If you’re unsure whether you’re due for a trim, Pita says to just take a look at your end. “It’s easy to tell if you have split ends—you can see them, and your hair will tangle at the ends. That is when you need to get them cut,” says the stylist.

What Products Help Prevent Split Ends?
Think moisture, moisture, moisture. “Split ends come from dryness, over-processing, and too much styling, so you’ll want to look for products that replenish and nourish your hair,” says Pita. And a good detangling brush on wet hair.

In ancient Rome, locals regularly bathed in hot springs as a way of harnessing the skin-healing properties of thermal water. These days, that same stuff has been bottled up into some of your favorite skin-care SKUs, giving anyone with access to a drugstore the ability to reap its benefits.
Long been considered a “miracle” treatment for sensitive skin and inflammation, thermal water’s soothing applications can be a game-changer for those dealing with irritation. But considering skin-care technology has (understandably) improved over the last few thousand years, does it still stack up as a sensitive skin treatment? Keep reading for what dermatologists have to say about adding it to your routine.

What is thermal water?
Though thermal water is technically just…water, the way its sourced enhances it with vitamins and minerals that can help treat (and in some cases, even cure) diseased skin.  “Thermal waters come from within the earth’s core, and each thermal water has a unique fingerprint,” says Tyler Steel, the Vice President of media relations at La Roche Posay. “As the water travels through layers of earth and rock, the waters collect nutrients and minerals that can provide anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and other health-providing properties that can benefit multiple skin types and conditions.” According to Rachel Maiman, MD a board-certified dermatologist at Marmur Medical in New York City, as the water rises to reach the spring, it passes through rocks and soil and picks up minerals along the way. “The most common soluble minerals found in thermal water are calcium, bicarbonate, silicates, iron compounds, sodium and magnesium salts, sulfur compounds, and metals, along with trace elements like selenium,” she says.

The benefits of thermal water
“Thermal spring water contains elements that provide anti-inflammatory, soothing, and even probiotic benefits,” says Joshua Zeichner, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and director of cosmetic and clinical research at Mount Sinai hospital, meaning that the ingredient can be great for building up the strength of your skin barrier.

However, the benefits of thermal water directly correspond to the type of minerals it contains—which can differ depending on where it's sourced. “For instance, sulfur is abundantly found in most thermal water, which has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects,” says Dr. Maiman, “Many of the minerals in thermal water also appear to have antioxidant properties that some studies suggest help neutralize free radicals and reduce inflammation.”

The thermal water used in La Roche-Posay’s skin-care lineup, for example, is rich in both selenium and strontium, which Steel says has been shown to help treat psoriasis and atopic dermatitis. That same water is used at the brand’s partner dermatology center in France, where patients spend three weeks bathing in hot springs. On a recent trip to the thermal center, our senior beauty editor met patients with severe eczema and burn scarring who experienced life-changing results from their treatments.

Ultimately, Dr. Maiman thinks thermal water is worth a try, especially for anyone dealing with eczema or psoriasis. “The existing data suggests that those with these conditions may derive some benefit,” she says. However, she notes that much of the research surrounding thermal water has been conducted by brands that use it in their products, which “may present some bias.” And while this doesn’t necessarily tarnish the findings, it does mean that more studies may be needed to confirm the ingredient is all it’s cracked up to be.

And though thermal water is a great, non-irritating option for sensitive complexions, Dr. Maiman stresses that it doesn’t replace a prescription from a dermatologist when it comes to treating more severe skin conditions.

No one applies makeup with the hope it won't last all day. So, it's only natural we research the longest-lasting products—the ones that will stay on through work, a night out, and perhaps even that impending snowstorm. Through it all, we've realized an absolute truth: For extending your wear, you’ll need a good setting product. But the question remains... which one?

You’ve probably seen the two setting mainstays: setting powder and setting spray. The one you apply depends on your skin type and the finish you're after. 

What Is Setting Powder?
Keri Blair, a senior national artist at MAC Cosmetics, says setting powder is typically used on the face in places where you’d like a matte finish. “Setting powder comes in a loose, generally jet-milled powder form and requires a brush or a puff to be applied,” she says. It essentially does just what it sounds like it does: sets your makeup in place throughout the day. Setting powders are available in tons of shades or as a translucent veil, depending on the look you want. “Colorless versions are universal for all skin tones, while tinted kinds are used to warm up or deepen a foundation,” says Dino Dilio, a makeup instructor at CMU College of Makeup Art & Design.

The Benefits of Setting Powder
If you have oily or combination skin or your makeup tends to bleed throughout the day, you may prefer a powder. Screven says setting powders can be used to zap oil, often just where it's needed instead of all over. “Setting powder can help absorb the extra oil on your skin, and it's perfect for holding foundation in place,” he says. “I generally like applying setting powder after I apply concealer to help keep it in place. This helps to brighten the under-eye and to keep the concealer in place for a longer amount of time.” For people with dry skin, only a few swipes of powder is needed (likely where most people are prone to oil, such as the nose or t-zone).

What Is Setting Spray?
A setting spray is a liquid misted onto the skin through an atomizer. While setting powder is used to absorb oil all over or just in key areas (with a more matte finish), a setting spray, according to Blair, "gives a softer effect with less visible texture." Setting spray is used to keep your whole face of makeup in place —that includes setting powder, mascara, even lipstick. "Setting spray is applied all over the skin, not just your face makeup," Screven says. "And, some offer a more dewy finish, while others keep things matte."

The Benefits of Setting Spray
Different setting sprays work better for various skin conditions. Humectant mists are “ideal for dry skin, as they attract and trap moisture into the skin,” 

​The Final Takeaway
How you choose to set your makeup depends entirely on your skin's needs and the look you're going after. Either way, experts recommend this "invisible" step in your makeup routine to yield long-lasting results from AM to PM.

L​ife is full of choices. Still or sparkling water?  Cream or powder blush?  We know making up your mind can be hard, so we’re here to help you with at least one of these classic quandaries: Should you be using cream or powder blush? 

There’s no right or wrong answer when it comes to building your personal makeup collection, but with complexion products like foundation and blush, you’ll want to keep your skin type in mind. Not all products play nicely with breakout-prone skin, and dry skin types might feel like some makeup formulations sit on top of their face rather than blending in seamlessly. 

To crack the code and see which formula comes out on top (and for whom), we spoke to makeup artists Kate Synnnott, Nick Lujan, and Tobi Henney about the pros and cons of powder and cream blush, how they recommend applying them, and more. Read on to figure out which blushes should be on your vanity.

Cream vs. Powder Blush: How to Pick
Start with your skin type. If you have oily skin or live in a humid environment, cream blush may add extra shine that you’re trying to avoid. Cream blush is also much heavier than powder, so if you’re prone to breakouts, the makeup could clog pores. Those with dry skin, however, may find that powder doesn’t blend well on their skin or maybe even draws attention to dry patches. Then consider your aesthetic. If you want a dewy “I drink eight glasses of water per day” complexion, cream blush will go a long way. If you want something softer and more matte, powder can be a powerful tool to give you a “Who, me?” flush.  Ultimately, it may pay off to have one of each on hand. “I think everyone should have both in their makeup bag so they can choose what’s best depending on their mood,” says Synnott. “You can always wear them both together. Personally, I like to apply powder first as a base and then apply cream on top for a lit-from-within glow.”

What Is Cream Blush?
Typically found in tubes, wands, compacts, and twist-up sticks, cream blush is a rosy flush for your cheeks in an emollient format. “Whether or not you are a makeup wearer, cream blush is a great way to add a youthful warmth and glow to your complexion,” Lujan. Plus, because of the formulation, it can also carry a few extra skincare benefits like hydration or antioxidants. There are tons of ways to apply a balmy cream blush—including simply using your fingers—but generally, a tapping and blotting motion is best. “Pat the product on and build up the level of coverage you want,” says Synnott. “If you use a rubbing motion, it will turn patchy. The same patting technique works whether you’re using a brush or your fingers.” “apply cream blush on the apples of the cheeks and blend upward toward the cheekbone,” says Synnott. “If you follow this guide, it will work for any face shape.”  "Cream blush is best applied on your clean skin or over a liquid or cream foundation,” says Lujan. “Avoid applying cream blush over powder foundation or powder-set makeup—instead, apply before you [use] setting powder.” 
​
What Is Powder Blush?
​While cream blushes come in all shapes and sizes, powder blushes are mostly found in classic compacts. It’s an easy format to work with if you want to create buildable color on your cheeks and goes on a little more subtly than cream (it’s hard to overdo it on powder blush because you’ll see the color coming along slowly).  And while you can apply cream blush with your fingers, you’ll need a silky, fluffy brush to apply powder blush. “If you use light pressure, blush actually goes on much more flawlessly," says Synnott. "Start at the apples of your cheeks and sweep up and outward along the cheekbones—the spots you’d want to hit with a cream blush," Synnott. Henny notes that you'll want to tap off excess product before sweeping the blush onto your cheeks. Your order of operations may also be a bit different. “The biggest difference between applying powder and cream blush is that powder needs to be applied over a veil of setting powder,” says Lujan. “If you skip the powder step, your powder blush can potentially stick to oils or a wet spot, creating a blotchy application.” 

 The Final TakeawayIf you have to choose between the two, look to your skin type for guidance. The formula will play a big role in making your skin look healthy—so consider whether you have dry or oily skin to work around.  However, if you have the luxury of using it all, keep a few of each handy. Layering powder on top of cream blush can really bring you from a mere mortal glow to an other-worldly radiance. 

Take a look at the back of your skincare products and we guarantee glycerin is somewhere on the ingredient list. "Glycerin, also known as glycerol, is nothing new," says Snehal Amin, MD, a board-certified dermatologist of MDCS Dermatology. "It's usually the third most common ingredient in skincare products, so you've already used it."

When it comes to skincare, trending or active ingredients always pique our interest for the promised multiple benefits or ability to reduce existing skincare concerns, like acne or dark spots. And while it may not sound as exciting, glycerin is even more beneficial than other popular hydrating ingredients, like hyaluronic acid, explains Azadeh Shirazi, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of AziMD Skincare. Learn all about the benefits of glycerin, and how to use it.

What is glycerin?
Glycerin is a clear, odorless liquid that has the consistency of syrup, says Dr. Amin. It can come from animal or plant fats, or even petroleum. In skincare, glycerin is a humectant because it works by drawing and retaining moisture to keep the skin hydrated. "The syrup-like substance mixes easily in water and attracts water from deep in the skin and the air," says Dr. Amin. Humectants are an important part of keeping the skin hydrated, which is why you'll find glycerin in products such as moisturizers, serums, or even mild cleansers that won't strip the skin.

The skincare benefits of glycerin
The biggest benefit of glycerin is that it serves as a humectant. "It's like a skincare water magnet, drawing and holding onto water," says Dr. Shirazi. She explains that glycerin, while "less glamorous" is similar to hyaluronic acid (another humectant) in that it acts as a moisture booster, but it's more effective. "It forms a coating to protect the skin from losing water, and it also fast-tracks soft skin by allowing dead and damaged surface skin cells to shed off the skin faster," she says.

Glycerin is also a gentle ingredient that's suitable for all skin types. "It's a safe, well-tolerated ingredient, even in someone with sensitive skin, so it's wonderful in moisturizers," adds Dr. Shirazi.
How to incorporate glycerin into your skincare routineGlycerin is in many skincare products. You can incorporate it throughout your routine, from cleansing to moisturizing. Dr. Shirazi explains that typically, glycerin is formulated with other ingredients to form moisturizers that offer maximum hydration and smoother, softer skin — a perfect solution for any winter skincare woes. "Glycerin can also be found in toners, cleansers, and micellar water as it helps gently remove makeup, oil, and debris while maintaining skin hydration," says Dr. Shirazi.

You can find pure glycerin sold over-the-counter, however, Dr. Shirazi and Dr. Amin recommend using products with glycerin already in them. Dr. Amin says using pure glycerin on its own can cause irritations in some if used incorrectly.