With legacy designer brands — and their beauty spinoffs in particular — we can forget that there was once a living, breathing person behind the name. So many of these big labels are concerned exclusively with hitting sales goals, getting innovative products to market ahead of competitors and creating star-studded marketing campaigns. It's rare to see one that's also making an effort to honor the history and heritage of the designer whose name it carries.

Of course, YSL Beauty cares about those sales goals, innovative products and star-studded campaigns. (Zoë Kravitz! Lil Was X! Lila Moss! Danielle of NewJeans! Indya Moore! To name just a few.) But behind those flashy images of Dua Lipa posing with glossy bottles of Libre perfume, the brand is also establishing itself as a mission-driven business, investing in responsible agriculture, sustainable ingredient cultivation, ecological conservation and reforestation in areas of the world that need it most.

All of these efforts are an attempt to not just cater to growing consumer demand for more mindfully produced, environmentally conscious beauty products: It also carries on the legacy and values of Yves Saint Laurent, the person.

In 1966, when Saint Laurent was 33 years old, he visited Morocco for the first time. It was a story of love at first sight: The city of Marrakesh became his escape from his primary residence in Paris, his home away from home and a powerful source of inspiration in his life and design aesthetic. "Marrakesh was, for Yves Saint Laurent, a place where he celebrated a perfect balance between reality and imagination. [He called it] 'a magical, pink and quiet atmosphere,'" Laurence Benaïm, author of Yves Saint Laurent: A Biography, tells Bougeoir. "Marrakesh was a rebirthing place for Yves Saint Laurent, a place where he used to reinvent himself, where he celebrated the colors of the world."

She recalls the profound effect that initial trip had on Saint Laurent, noting that Marrakesh became "more an aesthetic revelation than a destination," for the designer: "He used to come to Marrakesh two or three times a year, and [would] draw his couture collection there. He drew inspiration from the sky, from nature and from light."

Just a year after that initial visit, he and partner Pierre Bergé bought their first home in the city. They would subsequently go on to acquire the "Pink Villa" in 1973, then the Villa Majorelle, in the iconic Majorelle Gardens, which would become Saint Laurent's creative retreat and personal oasis throughout much of his life.

Originally conceived of by French painter Jacques Majorelle, the Majorelle Gardens extend over 9,000 square meters in the city of Marrakesh, enclosed by outer walls. Over the course of 40 years, the artist carefully planted and expanded the garden, accenting it with boldly colored buildings and fountains, Moorish influences and Art Deco sensibilities. When the gardens came under the threat of destruction by hotel developers in 1980, Saint Laurent and Bergé swooped in to save it, purchasing the site and moving into Majorelle's former home on the property, which they renamed the "Villa Oasis." It was their goal to preserve and maintain the grounds, and that legacy has carried on through today: The Majorelle Gardens have since become a historic public landmark and museum, welcoming visitors from all over the world.

"Saint Laurent loved gardens and flowers. He had a specific relation with gardens — they kept him inspired," says Benaïm. "They were, for him, this quintessential expression of beauty."

In 2019, nearly 40 years after Saint Laurent purchased the Majorelle Gardens, YSL Beauty followed in those footsteps of environmental and cultural conservation, establishing the Ourika Community Gardens.
​
Located in the Ourika Valley at the foot of the Atlas Mountains — about 30 minutes outside Marrakesh — the YSL Ourika Community Gardens house more than 200 different botanical species indigenous to the region, including lemon and olive trees, roses, marigolds, irises and saffron. They cover 20,000 square meters, designed by landscape artists Éric Ossarta and Arnaud Maurières.
These gardens are crucial to YSL Beauty's entire product range: The brand cultivates and sources raw materials there that appear throughout its many skin-care, fragrance and color cosmetics formulations.

"Our objective is by 2025 to have in all new products launched feature [at least] one ingredient coming from our different gardens here," says Caroline Negre, the global sustainability and scientific director for YSL Beauty. "So far, [we've achieved that] for skin-care and cosmetics products."
Some examples: the jasmine extract in the All Hours Foundation, the saffron pistils in the Or Rouge range, the pomegranate extract that serves as an antioxidant in the Rouge Volupté Shine lipstick. The brand also has a dedicated botanical research team that works to identify potential uses and benefits of various plants grown at the Ouirka Community Gardens.

"We know that Saint Laurent drew so much inspiration from nature here in Morocco; now, we draw inspiration here to create product," Negre adds. "Going back to the land of Mr. Saint Laurent is key for us."

In the gardens, the brand makes an effort to employ sustainable agricultural methods, such as regenerative practices and upcycling; when raw materials are harvested, their byproducts are often used as fertilizer on the grounds, for example. But it's a philanthropic initiative, as well as an environmental one: As part of what the brand calls its "responsible supply model," YSL Beauty established a social program, through which the garden is maintained by a cooperative of 32 local Berber women, who gain educational and economic opportunities, as well as a sense of autonomy through this program. According to YSL Beauty, in the last three years, the cooperative has doubled its revenue. All of this, according to Saint Laurent's biographer, speaks to the legacy of the designer himself.

"The Ouirka Community Gardens are a living tableau — I can feel YSL there, his soul and love for supernaturalist vision of nature," says Benaïm. "It's an extraordinary project, a dream that became reality with a special sustainable commitment, a breathtaking explosion of essences, plants and flowers that celebrates raw inspiration. It's the absolute Yves Saint Laurent legacy."

It's not just the vegetation that evokes Saint Laurent's legacy; it's also the regard for the community of women the gardens employ. "Yves Saint Laurent cared about empowering women: He allowed them to be what they are, to assume the complexity of being in this world, to celebrate their difference against uniformity and intolerance," she says. "I'm impressed by the way YSL Beauty is working toward the future with the respect of the past, particularly in the Ourika Community Gardens."

In addition to establishing its own community gardens and local cooperative to cultivate them, YSL Beauty works with Re:Wild, an NGO established by conservation scientists to protect biodiversity through rewinding. Rather than simply focusing on conservation, it identifies areas impacted by climate change and aims to restore ecosystems and create protected areas while partnering with locals to maintain cultural traditions and establish longevity in these efforts.

YSL Beauty has partnered with Re:Wild to protect and restore 100,000 hectares of land — an area almost 10 times the size of Paris — where it sources its ingredients (in Haiti, Madagascar, Indonesia and Morocco) by 2030. In the Ourika Valley, in particular, desertification is the key concern; the YSL Beauty Ourika Community Gardens are one effort the brand has undertaken in the area, but it's also worked to plant trees and restore arid land throughout the region. Since it began these efforts in 2017, YSL Beauty has planted more than 125,000 trees in an effort to combat rising temperatures, deforestation and natural disasters.

"[YSL Beauty] wanted to use their voice to speak to their audience about biodiversity, which most people run from because it's a complex, intangible and complicated thing to talk about," says Dr. Robin Moore, Re:Wild's vice president. "The fact that they want to embrace it and not shy away from it, as well as have an impact on the ground, is really appealing for us, because to turn this around and to rewild our earth, it's going to take all of us. We can't just have the conservation organizations in their own little bubble. We need brands like YSL Beauty, individuals, companies, organizations and governments. We all need to be working together toward shared goals."

For Negre, the Re:Wild initiative is a clear homage to Saint Laurent himself. "It's carrying on Saint Laurent's passion for connecting consumers to mission," she says, recalling a famous quote of the designer's: "I participated in the transformation of my era. I did it with clothes, which is surely less important than music, architecture, painting. But whatever it's worth, I did it."

This outlook is the driving force behind YSL Beauty's current efforts, she argues. "We're saying, 'Okay, people are more and more aware that biodiversity is being threatened, so we need also to go in this direction — because we're here to contribute to the changing of our era.'

Self-tanning is the best way to get a golden glow without worrying about the aging and oxidative effects of sun damage on your skin. Even if protecting yourself from the sun is on your list of activities, you may find yourself a little intimidated by self-tanning products and the streaking they can cause. Faux tanning products are safe and affordable, and worth learning how to use, so we talked to the experts. Ahead, learn how to apply self-tanner, according to the pros.

Shower & Exfoliate
The trick to getting an even, long-lasting fake tan starts with showering and exfoliating before you apply an a self-tanning product. "Self-tanners work much like a food coloring to stain the dead skin cells at the skin surface," Ciraldo explains. "Exfoliating before application of the self-tanner results in an even appearance to the tan." Use a body scrub. If you shave your body hair, now's the time to take care of that, too. (More on shaving later.)

Protect Key Areas
Don't apply your usual body lotion everywhere when you dry off from the shower.
“It’s crucial to moisturize dry areas only (like your ankles, feet, knees, elbows, wrists, palms, etc.) to prevent them from soaking in too much color,” says Kittaneh. “The rest of your skin should be dry and free of oils or lotions to maximize the effectiveness of the self-tanner." Have light hair or eyebrows? Put moisturizer over your brows and around your hairline, too. The active ingredient in self-tanner, dihydroxyacetone (DHA), works by tinting the keratin in your skin, Ciraldo explains. Because keratin is also a component of hair, you can give yourself an unintended dye job if you're not careful. "Light-haired people should be meticulous at avoiding the product getting on scalp or brow hairs," she advises.

Cover Your Hands
Hands are especially prone to turning orange after self-tanning, so for best results, keep them covered. “Use a tanning mitt or latex gloves to apply the self-tanning product evenly and to avoid staining your fingers and palms,” Kittaneh suggests. If you're applying the product with bare hands, make sure they're lotioned up first. After applying the self-tanner, wash your hands with a cleanser and washcloth. "The washcloth texture will help to physically exfoliate away the self-tanner," Ciraldo says.

Apply in Long Strokes
After prepping your body and hands, you'll apply your tanner in long strokes. Remember, your skin needs to be completely dry to absorb the product, so no self-tanning right after your shower; step out of your steamy bathroom and wait 10 minutes. Put the product directly on your mitt or gloves. “Work on one section at a time, applying the tanner in light, long vertical strokes until smooth and even," Kittaneh says. "Apply sparingly to feet, ankles, knees, elbows, neck, face, and hands, but be sure to touch on all exposed areas for a natural-looking glow.”

Fortunately, overloading on tanner won't turn you orange—DHA can only stain the keratin in your skin to a certain degree—but using too little product can create a streaky-looking tan. Put a liberal amount of product on your glove, enough to coat your skin thoroughly and evenly without rubbing.

Clean Up the Excess
To keep your faux tan looking seamless after you've finished applying your self-tanner, towel off excess product on the rougher skin around your joints. “After you've finished applying the self-tanner, brush over your knees, wrists, elbows, feet, and ankles with a very slightly damp paper towel to pick up excess color and eliminate unevenness,” says Kittaneh.

Wash Your Hands
Even if you used a mitt or a glove to apply your tanner, washing your hands will ensure that your palms don't turn orange. Because your hands--especially your palms--are prone to orange coloring, this is the safest bet to prevent it from occurring. Use soap and water to wash them thoroughly.

Let It Develop
Wait at least 20 minutes to get dressed and at least 12 hours to shower or get your tan remotely wet (like with skincare products or perfume). When you do shower, avoid shaving for as long as you want to keep your tan. Shaving exfoliates dead skin, which means your tan will go down the drain along with your shaving cream. If you have to de-fuzz your legs or arms, "use a depilatory cream instead of shaving to prolong the life of your faux tan," Ciraldo suggests.

Moisturize & Wear Sunscreen
Kittaneh says: “To keep your tan fresh as long as possible, moisturize all over daily." That important because dry skin is the enemy of a faux tan.

Better yet, if you're heading out of the house, wear moisturizing sunscreen. "We do have to remember that self-tanner alone doesn't afford any sun protection," Ciraldo advises. Reapply your tanner as often as needed—every few days should do the trick—for a long-lasting glow.

Self-tanner has come a long way from that lingering burnt toast smell long after you’ve finished applying it and the leftover Oompa Loompa-like hue on your extremities. But even with all the innovation in the space, getting an even application is still intimidating, if not seemingly near impossible. However, with the a few key self-tanner tips, it is possible to achieve a professional-level sun-kissed glow from head to toe.

Ahead, Bougeoir checked in with top tanning experts, to find out how to get a believable summer glow without over-exposing your skin to the sun. Keep reading for their simple yet effective self-tanner tips.

How To Apply Self-Tanner On Your Body
Before picking up your tanning products, it’s key to prep your skin. “One of the most common mistakes I see when people apply their tan is not prepping their skin properly,” says Daisy James, Bondi Sands tan specialist, “This is the most important step in your tanning routine, as it helps to provide you with a flawless base.”

“Although tanning seems like an easy process, you need to give yourself an ample amount of time and attention to make sure the finish looks natural,” Alexandra DiMarchi, Tan-Luxe's global tanning expert, “For example, if you are using drops that you mix in with your moisturizer, you need to make sure you apply the same amount of drops to each body part or one leg might develop way darker than the other. When you try to speed up the process and rush through a tan, that's when it starts to look uneven.”

An even surface is one of the secrets to a natural-looking, long-lasting tan. Before applying self-tanner, all of the experts Bougeoir  spoke with recommend exfoliating the skin the night before. “Exfoliation is essential because you're creating a smooth canvas for your product to adhere to. You don't want any flaky bits of skin that could make your tan look uneven,” says DiMarchi.

According to Sophie Evans, St. Tropez skin finishing expert and celebrity tanning specialist, timing is just as important as sloughing. “We want your skin in the best condition possible,” she says, “Exfoliation day of [self tanning] is better than nothing, but eight hours before is most ideal.” Make sure to pay extra close attention to thicker areas like elbows and heels.

Your Pre-Tan Exfoliation
Self-tan settles into dry patches which makes for an unnatural glow. To fend this off, make sure to moisturize following your exfoliation. Just like before, timing is everything. Lather up the day before your tan, so the lotion has enough time to sink into the skin. Creams create a barrier between your skin and the self-tanner which can prevent it from activating when not fully absorbed.

Post-Exfoliation Moisturizers
After you’ve finished prepping the skin, it is finally time to apply your tanner. In order to get the best results, it is important to use a formula that works for your skin type. Rhiannon Hall, founder and head of product development at Luna Bronze, recommends paying attention to the undertones of your self-tanning products. As a good rule of thumb, follow the color wheel: to counteract yellow tones, try a violet based product. For redness-prone or cooler tones, try a green base.

“Another factor to look at is the level of DHA, or Dihydroxyacetone, in self tanner,” explains Hall, “this indicates how dark the result will be.” When your skin goes orange, it’s usually due to two reasons: they used a product with too high of DHA or they left the product on too long. Dimarchi stresses to always use a self-tanner within the range of your skin tone even if you want a deeper tan. “A lot of people with fair skin choose a super dark color. Afterwards, it looks orange or unnatural because their skin can’t handle that level of DHA, she says.

No matter how meticulous you are with application, mistakes happen. Instead of dealing with them after the tan develops, attack them head on. Evans always works with an oil-free moisturizer and a pack of makeup wipes on standby. “Moisturizer dilutes color, so I have my clients apply to dry patches so the tan does not grab,” she says, “Any tan that has gone where we don’t want it like the hairline or nails, we wipe off with a cleansing wipe immediately.” Another pro tip: Use a fluffy brush to dab some translucent powder on areas that are prone to wetness like your armpits, under-boob, and the backside of your knee to prevent dripping.

How To Apply Self-Tanner On Your Face
Just like the body, the skin on the face should be properly prepped before applying self tanner. Make sure to cleanse, exfoliate, and hydrate just like you normally would — just make sure to let your skin care products settle before applying your self-tanner. The face has a tendency to develop darker than the body, Evans points out, so it’s important to use tanners specifically formulated for that area. Mix face drops with an oil-free moisturizer to dilute the potency. Celebrity makeup artist, Anton Khachaturian also believes less is more. “If you’re using a cream or liquid, start with a dime sized amount of product. Then, really work it in using a tanning mitt,” he says, “Finish off the process by using a blending brush. It really helps distribute the product and prevent streaks.” Jenni Blafer, self-tanning specialist and founder of SKJ, agrees. “[A brush] gives the most natural realistic look,” she says, “You can buff into the hairline, you can omit under-eyes, and you can add extra to cheeks and nose for that sun-kissed look.”

Applying self tanner all over the face can end up making your complexion look flat. Instead, try tan-touring. “Use a makeup brush to buff the tan into the contours of your face — just like you would with bronzer or contour,” says James, “Then follow the product directions before washing off for a no-makeup/makeup glow.” Alternatively, if applying self-tanner to the face is too intimidating, makeup will usually suffice. For beginners, Blafer believes bronzer drops are great for novices.

Cream bronzers are Khachaturian’s favorite way to create a natural-looking bronze. “Put the tiniest bit on your fingertips and start by applying it on your cheeks and around the perimeter of your face,” he suggests, “This will give you a natural-looking contour and that beachy blushed look. Applying cream blush on top warms up the product and makes it look more natural.”

How To Care For Your Fake Tan
After applying your self-tan, proper maintenance is the key to longer wear. Unfortunately, fake tans are fairly fragile. “The slightest things can impact your tan,” says DiMarchi, “Limit your activity post-tan so you don't sweat any of it off by accident.” Avoid strenuous activities and hot water. Instead, opt for lukewarm showers and low-impact movement. That said, proper moisturizing can help extend the life of your glow. Evans suggests lathering up an oil-free lotion every day after showering. “Heavy oils can take the self-tan off quicker,” she says. You can also swap out your regular lotion for one that’s a gradual tanner. This boosts your color and helps elongate your tan.

No matter how well you take care of it, a self-tan cannot last forever. Once a tan starts to fade, it can leave behind patchy discoloration. For easy removal, Evans suggests adding a few pumps of moisturizer on a clean applicator mitt. Then, buff over your problem areas.

Pimento. Pistachio. Peyote. Seaweed. Olive oil. Absinthe. Tiramisu. No, these are not the ingredients for a dish from The Menu, nor the inventory of an L.A. art party bar cart. These are perfume notes—all in new, fairly mainstream fragrances but still, they aren’t smells you would normally elect to spritz on your wrists. Coconut and cannabis are everywhere, and evidently a lot of people want to smell like nuts. ​Why such a preponderance of peculiar notes right now? One answer is that there is more competition, which offers breadth for brands to try something new. In 2003 only 581 fragrances were launched globally; in 2021 that number approached 3,000. Another reason is that our nostrils have grown more inquisitive. Consumers are getting much more experimental. They’re interested in what they’re smelling and open to taking risks.  Smaller brands don’t need to appeal to a mass audience. This allows them to push boundaries and play with unexpected notes. Experiencing these more unconventional perfumes broadens people’s tastes and perceptions of what a fragrance can be.

Of course, it’s important that non-­perfume perfume notes aren’t so oddball that they make a scent unwearable. They aren’t there to be daunting, but rather to add richness and character to the perfume. In the end, notes can be merely notions, providing new ways of describing a perfumer’s masterful derring-do. Hence, in synopses of Imaginary Authors scents, you will find tennis balls, mountain fog, orchard dust, and warm sand. Even as you read the words, you can sense the scents tickling your nose.
​

Before applying face serums, it’s essential to prepare your skin to maximize the benefits of the serum. Here are some tips to follow:

1. Cleanse your face: Start by cleansing your face with a gentle cleanser to remove any dirt, oil, and makeup. This ensures that your skin is clean and ready to absorb the serum.

2. Exfoliate: Exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells, allowing the serum to penetrate more effectively. Use a mild exfoliator a few times a week to promote a smooth and fresh complexion.

3. Tone your skin: Applying a toner after cleansing helps balance the skin’s pH levels and prepares it for better serum absorption. Choose an alcohol-free toner that suits your skin type.

4. Patch test: If you’re using a new serum, it’s a good idea to perform a patch test before applying it all over your face. Apply a small amount of serum on a small area of your skin, preferably on your inner forearm, and wait for 24 hours to check for any adverse reactions.

5.  Apply on damp skin: While your skin is still slightly damp after cleansing or toning, apply the serum. This allows better absorption and helps lock in moisture.

6. Use the right amount: Follow the instructions provided by the serum manufacturer or use a few drops (typically 2-3) of serum. Applying too much serum can overwhelm the skin and reduce absorption.

7. Gently massage: Use your fingertips to gently massage the serum into your skin using upward circular motions. This promotes circulation and aids absorption.

8. Follow up with moisturizer: After the serum has fully absorbed into your skin, apply a moisturizer to lock in the serum’s benefits and provide additional hydration.

9. Apply sunscreen: If you’re using a serum during the daytime, it’s crucial to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 as the final step in your skincare routine.

Remember, different serums may have specific instructions or recommendations for usage, so always refer to the product packaging or consult with a dermatologist if you have any specific concerns about your skincare routine.

Now that the masks are off (for reals!), it’s time to adopt a full-time lipstick-wearing schedule. If you’re fretting about dry lips and having to reapply your lipstick ever so often, here are some steps you should take to help nourish and prep your lips so that it stays on for longer.

#1 Moisturise and exfoliate your lips
Never pick at the dry flakes on your lips, as they may end up bleeding. Instead, try using a sugar scrub, which helps to soften the dry skin flakes before lifting them away gently. Use a lip balm or moisturiser to hydrate your lips and keep them from getting dry and flaky. Even better, turn to overnight lip masks to seal in the moisture, so that your lips are plumper when you wake up.

#2 Apply a lip primer
Use a lip primer to create a smooth base and help your lipstick stay on for longer. It can also help prevent feathering (when lipstick, especially the glossy kind, begins to creep outside the lip line) and bleeding.

#3 Use a lip liner
Using a lip liner not only helps define the outline of your lips, but also creates a barrier to prevent your lipstick from feathering or bleeding. Choose a lip liner in a shade which complements your lipstick choice. You can also opt to fill in the rest of your lips with lip liner before applying lipstick.

#4 Pick your poison
There are many options for long-wearing lipstick these days, but if you’re using a lipstick in bullet form, it helps to apply the lipstick with a lip brush so the coverage is even. The lipstick can then reach and fill in all the little lines and grooves of your lips. Blot with a tissue to remove any excess product.

You may have been led to believe that it doesn't matter which conditioner you choose: They all make hair soft and shiny. In actuality, it's not so simple. Just as there are many shampoos on the market, so, too, are there countless conditioners. The wrong pick can weigh down your hair or leave it static, dry, and brittle. But the right one can help you replace the lost moisture from shampooing, smoothing the cuticle and, in turn, reducing tangling, increasing shine, decreasing static, and helping make your hair more manageable.

Conditioner is crucial for all hair types, but not every conditioner will work for your hair type. We asked the experts—board-certified dermatologist Rachel Nazarian, MD, and celebrity hairstylist DJ Quintero—how to choose the right conditioner based on hair type. Keep reading for their advice.

What Conditioner Types Actually Mean
Conditioner packaging can be a bit confusing. With words like fortifying and volumizing, it can leave you wondering what the conditioner is actually supposed to do (and if it's a good fit for your hair type). To start, we break down the buzzwords below.

• Hydrating/moisturizing conditioners are great for adding moisture, shine, and smoothness to hair and are ideal for thick, curly, or coarse strands. Look for ceramides, B5, triglycerides.
• Volumizing is an excellent choice when your hair is fine or limp. If your hairstyle needs a boost and lift, a volumizing conditioner won't weigh you down. You'll see the term "maltodextrin" on these bottles.
  
• Strengthening/fortifying conditioners are formulated for damaged, over-processed, highlighted, weak, or brittle hair. Amino acids, proteins, collagen, Olaplex technology, and biotin will likely appear on the ingredient list.
•  Balancing conditioners are typically a nice middle-of-the-road option: Not too moisturizing but won't dry your hair out.
• Smoothing/straight hair conditioners have extra moisturizers and smoothing agents to help seal the cuticle and provide a smooth start for your straight hairstyle. Cocoa butter, olive oil, and egg white be found in this conditioner type.
• Curly hair conditioners are formulated for curly hair and are typically very moisturizing and make an extra effort to reduce frizz. Argan oil  might be at play here.

The Best Conditioner for Weak, Breakage-Prone Hair

What to Look For
If your hair often breaks off during brushing, washing, or styling, you'll want to look for a strengthening conditioner to fortify your strands from the inside out. These typically do so with strengthening ingredients like keratin and moisturizing agents.

Conditioners with deep conditioning ingredients—including proteins and amino acids to improve hair follicles' resilience to the environment—will benefit this hair type, says Nazarian. Green tea extract and other antioxidants are also go-to ingredients.

Look for "a reparative conditioner with beneficial ingredients that nourish and actually repair and deeply condition the hair, along with great treatments that work," says Quintero.

The Best Conditioner for Oily, Limp Hair

What to Look For
If your hair tends to be oily or greasy, you may skip conditioner altogether and likely often find that conditioner makes your hair feel worse. While some people can skip the conditioner with good luck, there are options out there that can help reduce oil.

"Weighed down, greasy hair is a sign the scalp is producing too much oil," says Nazarian. "Conditioner with dimethicone, glycerin, and shea butter can hydrate without weighing down the hair. Leave-in conditioners are also a good option here; a small amount to the ends goes a long way."

Quintero says a lightweight conditioner that adds fullness and volume is your best bet for oily hair. Avoid conditioners that are "hydrating," "moisturizing," "smoothing," or otherwise considered good for curly hair. These conditioners tend to pack in too much moisture at once and will cause your hair to be limp. Instead, look for labels that read "volumizing," "light," "strengthening," or "balancing."

How to Use it

How to Use
Look for conditioners with strengthening ingredients, but don't overuse them: Overusing ingredients like protein can actually lead to more breakage.

These products are less moisturizing and more effective at removing excess oil, so if your hair is fine and oily, try using conditioner first, then shampoo. Added protein may also be a good thing for oily hair.

The Best Conditioner for Dry, Damaged Hair

What to Look For
"The health of the scalp determines the health of follicle," says Nazarian. "Dry hair is a sign that the root of the hair, the scalp, is not creating enough oil to condition the hair." She recommends using a conditioner with vitamin B5, which is "great at hydrating, and ceramides to improve the ability to retain moisture."

Sometimes, overwashing can also be the culprit for dry hair. "Look for conditioners that deeply condition and protect hair and add shine and moisture," says Quintero. "Try a conditioner that helps seal cuticles and leave hair shiny and moisturized.

Avoid "strengthening," "fortifying," and "volumizing" conditioners. For hair that is only a little dry, look for shampoo labels that promote moisture, hydration, smoothing, balance, or help with curls. These products are great for balancing moisture without adding too much to weigh your hair down.

How to Use it
Deep conditioners are a great investment for dry and damaged hair. With use one to four times per month, your hair's damage can be managed, and future damage can be prevented. Try a coconut oil treatment for intense damage repair.

The Best Conditioner for Natural Curls and Coils

What to Look For
Hydrating, moisturizing, and smoothing are signs a conditioner may be right for your natural curls. Moisturizing is of the utmost importance when you have curly hair, as the natural oils cannot travel throughout the strands of hair and distribute the moisture evenly. Nazarian says coconut and argan oils can offer deep hydration and smooth follicles for shiny curls.

"Try and use as few hair products as possible between washes and ensure you use quality products (conditioner) over a higher quantity of products," says Quintero, who adds that moisture and protection are extremely important for those with natural hair. "I would look for a moisturizing conditioner, a great leave-in, and a great oil. You can also use co-washes that don't strip your hair of natural oils and help moisturize and condition."

How to Use it
Most people with natural hair tend to do a deep condition every two weeks. Because natural hair tends to be on the drier side, you need a gentle conditioner that adds moisture and protects your strands while encouraging your curl patterns, says Quintero.

Can You Skip Conditioner?
If you have very fine hair, Quintero says you can skip conditioner—but you might want to think twice before doing so. "Conditioner technology has gotten so good that you [can] choose what works best for your hair now," he says. "So many shampoos and conditioners can really help your hair needs based on texture and density."

When in doubt, consult a board-certified dermatologist to be formally evaluated; they can help direct you toward the right products. "Depending on what other products you are using and certain styling habits," there may be more at play than your choice in conditioner, says Nazarian.

Selecting the right shampoo for your hair type can be a confusing endeavor. Hydrating, strengthening, smoothing, color-safe, thickening—how do you match the lingo on the bottle with the hair on your head? The thing is, though, that choosing a shampoo that corresponds with your hair type can make all the difference, creating the right balance of moisture, shine, and bounce.

We tapped board-certified dermatologists Sharleen St. Surin-Lord, Tsippora Shainhouse, and trichologist Shab Reslan to learn how to find the best shampoo for your hair type. Spoiler alert: It all starts with knowing what kind of scalp you have.

Define Your Scalp Type
While you might think of shampoo strictly as a hair-cleansing agent, it's equally important to consider your scalp when choosing a shampoo. "Shampoos all have different cleansing capabilities; therefore, it's important to identify your scalp type before choosing one," Reslan explains.

Here's how to tell what your scalp type is. "A scalp that feels tight after washing (or just by itself) or a scalp that is itchy (with or without flakes) are signs that you may have a dry scalp," says St. Surin-Lord. "An oily scalp, on the other hand, may be shinier, and someone with an oily scalp and dandruff can have flakes that appear clumped together." Finally, there's a combination scalp, which refers to a scalp that's neither dry nor oily. You'll know if your scalp is combo if it gets oily two to three days after shampooing versus the day after. (Consider yourself lucky if that's you).

Think of it this way: shampoo is for your scalp and roots, while conditioner is for the ends of your hair. If your scalp is oily and your ends are dry (a common combination), you should choose a shampoo best suited for an oily scalp and leave the moisturizing up to your conditioner, which should be applied only to your dried ends.

Oily Scalps: Avoid Overly-Moisturizing Shampoos
If your scalp tends to be oily or greasy, you've likely been through dozens of shampoos with little luck. You've tried everything from washing daily (even twice daily) to allowing days between shampoos to try to control excess oil and sebum production. Here's what to look for and what to avoid when choosing a shampoo for an oily scalp:

• Avoid shampoos that are hydrating, moisturizing, smoothing, or good for curly hair. These tend to add too much moisture to your already oily scalp. "By design, shampoo is meant to cleanse your roots more than any other part of your hair, so if you're prone to oily roots, for example, you may need a less moisturizing and deeper cleansing shampoo," says Reslan.
• Look for labels that mention volumizing, strengthening, or balancing. These products are non-moisturizing and more effective at removing excess oil.
• A clarifying shampoo can be a big help for super-oily scalp conditions, but be careful not to overuse the product and dry out your scalp.
• Try a double shampoo. Similar to double-cleansing your face, a double shampoo consists of washing your hair with two separate shampoos to target different needs. Use one formula to address your oily scalp, followed by a different formula to wash below your roots.
• Spend extra time working the shampoo into your scalp to break up oil, and rinse your scalp very well.
• After shampooing, avoid working your conditioner into your scalp, which SHainhouse notes is "best for dry scalps." Instead, concentrate on the mid-shaft and ends of your hair. Rinse well.

Dry Scalps: Reach for Moisturizing Products
When your scalp is dry, itchy or flaky, choosing the right shampoo can be your first line of defense against the uncomfortable, sometimes embarrassing conditions that can occur. It's essential to choose a shampoo that doesn't add to the issue when you have a dry scalp. Try these tips:

•  Avoid strengthening, fortifying, and volumizing shampoos. These products can strip your scalp of necessary moisture.
• Refrain from using too much dry shampoo. "Layers of oil-absorbing dry shampoo can also dry out the scalp skin," notes Shainhouse.
• For scalps that are only slightly dry with little to no itching or flaking, look for shampoo labels that promote moisture, hydration, smoothing, or curls. These products encourage moisture retention and can be beneficial to your dry scalp.
• Avoid "styling products, including shampoos, with sulfates," says Shainhouse, who notes that sulfates are very drying to the hair and scalp.1
• Even when your scalp is dry, it's important to properly shampoo your hair for best results.

Define Your Hair Type
In addition to factoring in your scalp type, it's also important to consider your hair type when shopping for shampoo. Here's what you should keep in mind:

• Fine Hair: Look for volumizing shampoos that can boost your strands without weighing hair down.
• Thick Hair: Hydrating or moisturizing shampoos are great for adding moisture, shine, and smoothness to thick hair that lacks moisture.
• Straight Hair: Smoothing or straight hair shampoos are typically rich in extra moisturizers and smoothing agents that are meant to help seal the cuticle and provide a great start for straight and smooth styles.
•  Wavy Hair: Balancing shampoos are typically a nice middle-of-the-road option. They're not too moisturizing but won't dry your hair out.
• Curly Hair: Those with curly hair should look for very moisturizing shampoos for curly hair that contain ingredients that reduce frizz without weighing down the curls.
• Damaged/Colored/Brittle Hair: Strengthening or fortifying shampoos are good for damaged, over-processed, highlighted, weakened, or brittle hair, as they usually contain extra protein meant to improve hair's condition.

Other Factors to Consider
Markers of healthy hair include shine and bounce, and bouncy hair comes from elasticity. If you feel yours lacks bounce, St. Surin-Lord says your hair likely isn't well-moisturized. "To be bouncy and elastic, the hair must not be weighed down by heavy ointments or silicones," she says. "Instead, a humectant such as glycerin will help draw in moisture and is great for dry scalp." Mango seed oil is another ingredient to look out for since it's moisturizing and lightweight, as is argan oil. The ceramides and fatty acids in sunflower seed oil can also help in repairing hair, moisturizing it, reducing frizz, and adding shine.

Dealing with dandruff? Reslan says that in most cases, dandruff is a byproduct of an oily and flaky scalp condition that's caused either by infrequent shampooing, gentle cleansing shampoos, or, in some cases, diet. "If someone is experiencing an imbalance in their scalp and they haven't changed their environment, products, diet, or frequency of shampoos, they should have their medical professional take a look at their overall health to make sure their scalp imbalance is not a sign of something internal," she recommends.

Summer is officially here and that means it may be time to update your daily skincare regimen.  As the seasons change, our skincare routine needs to adapt as well, and there are certain ways we can help our skin adjust to the heat and humidity over the next several months. It's not just skincare products we should be mindful of, but certain skin procedures as well.

Dr. Julia Tzu, a surgical, laser and cosmetic dermatologist based in Manhattan tells Bougeoir that "one set routine" doesn't work regardless of the time of year. "During every season you should be switching up your skincare to suit the kind of changing environment," she added.

So what is it in our skincare regimen that needs to change?

Here are Dr. Tzu's top tips on how to change your skincare routine for the summer.

When summer comes around, Tzu says the first thing you should be thinking about is using sunscreen due to the increase in UV radiation and higher temperatures. "You've got to wear sunscreen, you got to amp up the SPF, make sure your SPF is broad spectrum and make sure it's non-comedogenic when it's used on your face," Tzu advised. "That's the top priority when it comes to summer skincare."
The dermatologist also stresses that you need to use sunscreen regardless of whether you have fair skin or darker skin. She also recommends using a lip gloss or balm with SPF in it to protect your lips.
Also, don't forget to reapply the sunscreen if you're spending hours outside. Many people may also assume that a higher SPF means they can skip that step, but that's not the case.

Dr. Lisa Kellett, a dermatologist in Toronto, says it all comes down to science, and unfortunately, many people misunderstand what SPF truly means. "SPF of 60 does not protect you twice as much as an SPF of 30," she told Bougeoir. "Nothing completely will protect you." The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends sunscreen with SPF of 15 or higher if you're inside for majority of the day or outside for short periods of time. However, if you'll be spending a lot of time outside, you should be using an SPF of 30 or higher, water-resistant sunscreen.

It's also important to choose a sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays.

Exfoliate more frequently
If you've steered clear from exfoliators over the winter, Tzu says summer is the time to start as your body sweats and produces more oil. "Some people who generally can't tolerate exfoliation at all during the wintertime can probably start using it during the summertime because your skin is a little bit more hardy during the summertime. It's hotter, it's warmer, it's more humid," she continued. As for those who do exfoliate during the winter, Tzu says they can increase their frequency. The dermatologist says your skin can handle more irritants, like exfoliants, during the summer because of the heat and humidity. "The humidity restores your skin barrier a little bit more so you can exfoliate a little bit more frequently," she explained.

Use a Vitamin C serum to reduce dark spots
Tzu says she recommends to her patients that they use a Vitamin C serum during their morning routine in the summer months. This can help reduce brown spots on the skin. "Especially for people who are prone to discolouration with sun exposure," she noted. "To some level, it can protect you against things like brown spots, which a lot of people hate."

Change your moisturizer
Our skin tends to be more dry in the winter so we end up using thicker creams. However, now is the time to do the opposite. Of course, it does depend on your skin type and what you do in the wintertime. So if you use a thick moisturizer in the winter, you'll want to find a lighter formula for the summer. Tzu says moisturizer is especially necessary at nighttime to replenish the skin. "You're kind of recharging yourself when you're sleeping, you're recharging your skin as well," she explained. "An eye cream and a neck cream, I think they're nice to have but if you really just wanted to stick with the very basics you could just use your facial moisturizer and moisturize right under your eyes and also your neck."

Retinoids can be used more frequently during the summer, but be careful
Just like with exfoliants, Tzu says if you use retinoid year-round, you can increase the frequency during the summer. "The basic principle [is] irritants can be increased during the summertime, irritants must be decreased during the wintertime and protectants, things like moisturizers, can be decreased during the summertime [and] protectants can be increased during the wintertime."

According to the American Academy of Dermatology Association, a retinoid is a "catch-all for an array of vitamin A-based products used on skin." It's typically recommended for someone with mild acne or pigmentation issues or for mild fine lines and wrinkles. One thing to be mindful of, Tzu says, is that products like retinoids or over-the-counter topical benzoyl peroxide products do make your skin more sensitive to the sun. This is why sunscreen and other sun protection are so important.
Tzu says if you do use retinoid once a day, use it before going to bed rather than in the morning.

It’s not often a product is described as velveteen, but in the case of La Mer’s very expensive but oh-so-wonderful lip balm, it feels apt. La Mer is a brand known for its prestige, and for its iconic Creme de la Mer—a healing kelp ferment discovered after the brand’s founder, Dr. Max Huber, burnt himself in a lab experiment gone awry. 

The entire range is now built around Creme de la Mer skin regenerating powers, and that includes the Lip Balm.

The most important ingredient to note is, of course, the Lip Balm, known for its soothing, nourishing effects on the skin. There’s also sesame oil, eucalyptus oil, sunflower oil, aloe vera, and glycerin. 

On the flip side, the Lip Balm contains petroleum, a somewhat contested skincare ingredient because it’s often sourced from questionable places. But currently, it is considered safe for cosmetic use and is often regarded as one of the best emollient ingredients. It’s also quite rich, making it ideal for the thin skin around the lips. 

What It's For: Conditioning and repairing
This product contains a slew of nourishing, hydrating ingredients, making it effective when it comes to conditioning the lips and repairing the skin barrier. It also applies like a dream, sinking in like butter and leaving the area soft but not greasy. The smell is also wonderful—a soft, powdery, expensive floral. But would you expect anything less? 

The Lip Balm comes in a weighty green tub with a silver lid, so you simply unscrew, stick your finger in and apply directly to the lips. Germaphobes might prefer a lip brush, but as long as you wash or sanitize prior and don’t share with others, you should be fine. You can also apply as often as you wish.

 ​Blame it on the vast sea of products or the endless loop of internet tutorials, but figuring out the correct order to apply your makeup can be downright confusing. While the box your go-to-concealer comes in might provide tips on how to use it to brighten your under eyes or cover up acne scars, it doesn’t tell you whether you should put it on before or after foundation. However, the reality is that the sequence in which you use your products really does make a difference — and not just for your final look. Resting on the face for hours, cosmetics can draw unwanted attention to common concerns such as breakouts and dryness especially when used out of order.

From the most natural look to a full face of glam, having the right products for your skin type is also important when developing a successful makeup routine. This will help you narrow down the product categories you’ll need daily and the ones you can do without. As celebrity and editorial makeup artist Katie Jane Hughes notes, “There are a few basics items, like a good moisturizer, a great concealer, and a handful of brushes in an assortment of sizes, that are necessary for any [makeup] style.” But, even with the best staples in your collection, you’ll still need to know when to use them to accomplish a swoon-worthy makeup look. The quest for the perfect routine may never end, because let’s face it, trends and new products are fun to try. However, mastering the ideal order of makeup application has long-term value. Ahead, Bougeoir chatted with four makeup artists to get the scoop.

Why Does The Order You Apply Makeup Matter?
Applying your makeup in the correct order is paramount to getting each individual product to perform as they’re intended. Celebrity makeup artist Jamie Greenberg tells Bougeoir that though routines may vary, certain steps used in an order can determine how long your makeup lasts and how well it does its job. Plus, it will make your regime flow seamlessly. The order is important with textures as it's difficult to go backward. “Cream products are meant to melt into the skin so they need to be applied before powder products in order to deliver the proper result,” says Hughes.

Looking at the big picture, the sequence of application also ensures they’ll lay properly on the skin. “When done correctly this will prevent makeup from breaking down throughout the course of the day as well as deter excess product build-up,” says Kristen Fortier, professional makeup artist.

The Correct Order To Apply Makeup

Step 1: Skin Care
You’ve heard it time and time again, but a good skincare routine is the basis of any great makeup look. So whether it’s your day-to-day no-makeup makeup or a special occasion, having a consistent regimen of cleanser, toner, and moisturizer is going to be crucial. Not only will this decrease irritations and the occurrence of blemishes but it will guarantee that your skin stays hydrated underneath the makeup. “I always begin with moisturizer on the face, lips, and even an under-eye mask to keep the delicate area plump,” says Greenberg.

A broad spectrum SPF should also be applied as most foundations contain too small of an amount to provide adequate sun protection. Some hybrid options even include the added function of prepping the skin specifically for makeup use.

Step 2: Primer
With dozens of options on the market that boast an array of benefits like blurring fine lines and pores, makeup primers have solidified their place in daily routines. “After you’ve completed your skin care, the next step should always be primer for an even application,” states NYC-based celebrity makeup artist and face sculptor, Joseph Carrillo. As an added bonus, it creates a much-needed barrier between your skin and the makeup, meaning it can also provide further hydration or be used to mollify oil production for a matte finish.

​Step 3: Foundation & Concealer
The purpose of the foundation is to create an even base or blank canvas for other cosmetic products to be applied. With that in mind, you’ll want to start by finding a shade that best matches your skin tone and desired finish. To find your shade match, Carrillo suggests selecting three hues that are similar to your skin tone and swiping each on your chest to see which best fits. “Typically the face runs lighter as we wash it all the time so matching there makes it perfect every time,” he says.

To blend in the product, Greenberg recommends using a Beautyblender for a natural look or a great foundation brush to buff into the skin for a smoother finish. Regardless of the tool you use, she ensures that the foundation should be blended before adding concealer. With a thicker consistency, concealers are meant to be used sparingly to target specific areas of concern such as dark circles or blemish marks. Applying thin layers that are lightly patted into the skin will work best.

Step 4: Bronzer & Blush 
Once your base has been applied, you can use bronzers and contouring products to shape and bring warmth back to the skin. But remember creams should be applied before powders. “If you like to use cream to contour, this is a good time to add it,” says Carrillo. He continues, saying that, “for dry skin cream everything (contour, bronzer, and blush) followed by a hydrating powder is the way to go to avoid patchy application. Conversely, oily skin types should stick to powder products to prevent makeup from breaking down as the day goes on.

Step 5: Brows, Eyeshadows, Mascara
This one is the most flexible of all the steps, as some people opt to do this before foundation. “For  pigment-rich eye looks, it may be a good idea to do this first in order to avoid any eyeshadow fallout affecting the foundation,” says Fortier. Wherever you decide to place this step, all four MUAs agree that eye primer is a must for a statement-making look that stays put. Brows are tricky, as the overall look and shape will determine the application. But according to Greenberg good tools will go far. “A great spoolie can be used to shape your brows or comb out clumpy mascara,” she says.

Step 6: Lips
Lipstick or gloss, the addition of defined lips will bring your final makeup look together. For long-lasting color that won’t bleed, Fortier and Carrillo recommend using a lip liner as a base. You can get creative with different shades, but a good rule of thumb is to opt for a liner that is slightly darker than your lip color to add contrast. To finish, Carrillo likes to seal everything with liquid lip color for an extra punch.

Step 7: Setting Your Makeup
The final step entails setting your makeup to keep it put throughout the day. “If you’ve applied any cream products, a powder will ensure that they don’t melt or move,” says Fortier. A setting spray can also give this effect and can be applied after powder or simply on top of the makeup for a more natural finish.

 Glitter nails makes for a show-stopping look in theory — and in the hands of a professional — but can be hit or miss when you're DIYing. How to apply glitter nail polish isn't as straightforward as your usual formula due in part to glitter's nature, which can be prone to clumping and sticking randomly on the nail. After all, how many times have you tried to get that full-coverage shimmer only to find yourself with shiny blobs in awkward places on the nail bed?
​
Still, this maximalist dream look is having a moment — and the good news is that you can go all-in on glitter with ease, so long as you know how. Below, consider these expert-approved tips for getting an even, eye-catching glitter manicure.

Prep Nails Properly
The key to getting smooth and even nail polish application — with or without glitter — starts at the prep stage. First, wash your hands with soap to get rid of any dirt and debris on the nail and cuticle area, and follow up with an alcohol wipe on the nail bed to get an extra clean base, says celebrity nail artist Brittney Boyce. Then, buff the entire nail and push back cuticles for a smooth surface before grabbing a base coat to cover the nail.

Apply Base Coat
While it may seem like an unnecessary step, applying a base coat is important, since it can strengthen nails, keep polish from chipping, and even provide the nail with nourishing ingredients. Plus, “a base coat acts as a solid foundation for any nail polish application,” nail technician and cosmetologist Alisha Mathis once told InStyle. That's especially helpful when you're working with a tricky substance like glitter.

Warm the Bottle
One of the biggest challenges with glitter polish is that it's hard to apply evenly. Luckily, there's an easy fix for that. Before even opening the bottle, Boyce says to roll — not shake — the bottle in your hands. "Roll the polish bottle back and forth with your hands for 30 seconds," she says, noting that shaking the bottle won't do the trick. "This helps dispute an even amount of glitter during application."

Polish Like a Pro
Before applying your polish, wipe off one side of the brush on the bottle's rim when you pull the brush out of the bottle. "This helps create a small polish bead at the opposite end of the brush for better application," she says. Using this technique apply two coats of your polish of choice and seal everything with a top coat.
​
If you've had any reservations about being to apply glitter polish on your own, keep this guide handy. Keeping a few things in mind, you'll be able to get disco-ready shine in no time.

When Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel first set foot in Los Angeles in 1931, it was for an offer she couldn’t refuse. Film mogul Samuel Goldwyn had offered the Parisian couturier a retainer of $1 million if she could dress his actresses and—as he told the New York Times—“endeavor to anticipate fashions by six months in order to solve the eternal problem of keeping gowns up to date, since films often do not appear before the public until months after they have been taken.” Needless to say, after a three-film stint and criticism in the press, she returned to Paris. 

Still, the City of Angels was hooked. Over the ensuing decades, the House of Chanel has become as essential to Hollywood stars as the Walk of Fame, bringing that signature elegance to red carpets and the silver screen alike. This week, that legacy has been further cemented with the opening of a four-story, 30,000-square-foot flagship in Beverly Hills—the largest in the United States.

On the first floor, visitors encounter handbags, watches (a special haute timepiece has been made for the flagship reveal, as has a special pair of Los Angeles–inspired sunglasses and nail polish), and fine jewelry, while via a pristine white stair they can make their way up to shoes, ready-to-wear, and—on the third floor—private consultation rooms. The top floor has a rooftop garden and full penthouse for VIP clients and events. Each space features a specially curated selection of art from names like Lee Bae, Mary Coarse, François-Xavier Lalanne, and more.

Fittingly, the flagship opening coincides with Chanel’s spring/summer ready-to-wear collection, which was inspired by the French New Wave film Last Year at Marienbad, for which Coco Chanel designed the costumes—proof that, nearly a century after Chanel’s first visit, cinematic inspiration flows both ways.​

We are all chasing the glow. That inexplicable but unmistakable look of healthy radiance that makes your favourite celebrity appear as if she is always standing in a gentle beam of golden sunlight. It is more than good genes, religious exfoliation, hydration and sunscreen. If only there were a silver bullet. Perhaps there is. Could it be glutathione?

Glutathione is made up of three different amino acids: glutamine, glycine, and cysteine and is present in every cell in the body. And it does some heavy lifting: it prevents and delays cell damage and death, keeps our mitochondria strong so they pump out energy and protect our DNA. While we get most antioxidants from the foods that we eat, glutathione is produced naturally all the time in our liver, and has the ability to bind itself to drugs and toxins to actually assist the liver in eliminating them. Since it is good for liver detoxification, it can help improve the overall appearance of the skin.

Most people still yearn for bright, glowing skin and have already tried the numerous skin care products available on the market, but in vain. However, you have a solution now. You can use glutathione for skin brightening. If you have never heard of this name and want to know more about it, we can help. Keep reading to know more about glutathione and how it helps brighten your tone and improve skin health.

Glutathione is a powerful antioxidant used in dermatology for skin brightening and skin lightening. It is extremely versatile and can work when taken orally, intravenously and on topical application. It is also called the Wonder drug for treating issues related to hyperpigmentation. Chemically it is a thiol-tripeptide that plays an important role in maintaining intracellular oxidation-reduction process. 

What Is Glutathione?
Even though glutathione is one of the most powerful antioxidants of all time, it is still unknown to a large number of people. It is best known for helping in brightening your skin and reducing the levels of melanin production. Doctors and dermatologists from all over the globe have often used glutathione during treatments and therapies. Most of the time it is used while manufacturing creams or skin brightening tablets for consumption. 

​What Does Glutathione Do To Your Skin?
Glutathione in skin care is a welcome addition for those with discolorations precisely because of those three amino acids mentioned above. They work together to help restore skin’s surface and brighten a dull complexion. Just how do they do that? Research shows that glutathione on skin can interrupt an enzyme within skin’s surface layers that triggers hyperpigmentation.

Is Glutathione Healthy For Skin?
In short, the answer is a resounding yes! Since it is a natural component of skin, it’s well-tolerated when applied topically. Studies have also shown that oral supplementation is successful at assisting in tackling an uneven skin tone; as an oral supplement, glutathione has received the designation "generally recognizes as safe"  from the United States Food and Drug Administration (USFDA). 

How To Use Glutathione For Skin Brightening?
Moisturize your skin from the inside out with the help of I-gluatthione pills that will prevent the flaking of skin. You can take glutathione for skin brightening in the form of pills or serums available online or take as a supplement given by your doctor or dermatologist. Consult your dermatologist for the correct glutathione dosage and instructions.

How Long Does It Take For Glutathione To Show Results?
One study found that at least a 2% concentration or more of a glutathione product improved the melanin index (a measure of melanin in skin) on dark spots when used twice a day for 10 weeks. As with most ingredients that help with fading discolorations, patience is key! It took years to build up the sun damage that caused those discolouration, so it takes time to lessen their appearance. Typically, it takes 1-3 months for people with light-medium brown skin to see some lightning effects of glutathione. For people with dark brown skin, glutathione takes 3-6 months to lighten the skin.  However, people with very dark skin may see the lightning effect of glutathione in 6-12 months. 
​
Of course, no skin brightening regime is complete without daily application (and reapplication!) of a sunscreen rated SPF 50 or higher to maintain the results you’re working to achieve.

Glutathione For Skin Brightening Dullness
Glutathione applied topically can help restore skin’s natural, youthful glow. Since, as mentioned above, a decline in our body’s natural amount of glutathione can lead to signs of aging – which include a dull complexion – adding it to your skin care routine can help improve the appearance of skin for a more even, revitalized look.

Glutathione is a popular antioxidant used by dermatologists for skin treatments all over the globe. It is also popularly used in creams or pills for skin-lightening purposes. Glutathione protects the skin from toxins, prevents dark spots and acne, and removes all impurities, leaving you with brighter and glowing skin. Along with glutathione, eat a diet high in vegetables such as tomatoes and asparagus to help you achieve clearer and healthier skin. 

Glutathione contains amino acids in abundance. The best part about this antioxidant is that it is very safe and doesn't have nay free radicals or toxins that could ruin your skin.  In fact, it helps in cleansing your skin and removing all impurities and allows you to achieve a brighter skin complexion. With this, you can expect your hyperpigmentation levels to reduce. It helps in the activation of enzymes that play an important role in detoxification.

Although there are a large number of products that help brighten your skin permanently, it is best to go natural! As already discussed, glutathione contains amino acids that reduce side effects and keep your skin healthy and safe in the long run.​​

How Does Glutathione Help In Brightening Your Skin?
​Here are a couple of points in brief that will help you understand how glutathione helps in natural skin whitening. Additional points have been mentioned to help you understand better.

As an antioxidant and made of 3 amino acids namely cysteine, glycine and gluatamic acid, Glutathione  protects your body from diseases and prevents toxins too. It also fights free radicals that causes skin pigmentation, blemishes, dark spots and skin discolouration. People usually take glutathione in the form of pills to brighten their skin. They are found in pharmacies and beauty shops. Four to six months of regular use may show effective results. 

​Glutathione Products
Glutathione is not just available in the form of pills, but also as injections, masks and beauty soaps. In fact, they have become quit popular in the market. It is loaded with vitamins, antioxidants, proteins and minerals that help in skin nourishment. Glutathione supplements are not just known for brightening the skin, but also for fighting freckles, age spots, acne, and scars. They can be used as anti-aging supplements as well. 

Usually taken in the form of a pill, glutathione has become highly successful in Asian countries, especially in countries where people would like to have fairer skin. Even though it is pretty expensive, glutathione injections are quite popular as they significantly increase the bioavailability of glutathione. 

Can Glutathione Help With Dark Spots?
Because of its role in melanin formation in the skin and its ability to interrupt an enzyme that causes melanin overproduction as mentioned earlier, glutathione treatment "can influence the pheomelanin pathway providing a more even skin tone and to reduce the formation of free radicals that develop after intense exposure to UV light and environmental pollution", according to board-certified dermatologist, Dr. Corey L. Hartman MD.

Adding Glutathione To Your Skin Care Routine
You might be wondering how to add glutathione to your skin care routine – especially if you’re already using dark spot fading products and ingredients. The good news is that adding glutathione products is easy. There is no evidence that this rising skin care star counteracts or impedes any of the activity of other brightening ingredients (such as vitamin c, licorice, arbutin or azelaic acid). Indeed, this antioxidant should have great synergy with those other ingredients, helping them work even better.  

"Topical skin care products containing glutathione are the best way to apply the ingredient directly to the target area", notes Dr. Hartman.

Just find a glutathione product appropriate for your skin type and incorporate it as another step in your already-established routine – it's that simple!

Japanese skincare treatments, from green tea facials to SK-II sheet masks, have become essential components of our weekly skincare routines, so naturally we’re very interested in the age-old Japanese skincare ritual that’s suddenly gained world-wide acclaim: The Sake Bath.

Pronounced "sah-keh" is a fermented rice wine, but as a result of fermentation, it produces some extremely effective anti-ageing agents: 20 different types of amino acids, kojic acid and loads of enzymes. These elements are well known for their ability to deeply hydrate and fade pigmentation — you’ll notice many of them feature in face serums due to their unique, youth-activating abilities.

Because pouring your own sake bath at home sounds a little sticky, and flying to Tokyo or New York for the in-spa experience may be a little exuberant, beauty and wellness brand Rue de Neiges is being credited industry-wide as the first major brand to incorporate sake into its Beauty Soap while 'Fresh' have incorporated sake into their bath products. Fresh have brought a sake bath soak to Sephora. It combines real peaches and 38% sake to increase circulation, and induce a 'purifying sweat' that eliminates toxins, in addition to reviving the skins surface with the acids and enzymes mentioned.

"For centuries, Japanese Geisha have used sake and rice to exfoliate the face, detoxify the body, and regenerate and smooth the skin," says Fresh Co-founder, Alina Roytberg. "To keep our bathing ritual authentic, we incorporated pure sake into this unbelievably detoxifying formula."

"We have long been fond of the Japanese sake master brewers- Toji who are famously known for having baby-soft, wrinkle free hands well into old age." says Rue de Neiges Co-founder Amy A. The main reason for this is because making sake involves working with koji (also known as kojic acid - cultivated mold that helps to ferment the rice), which is packed with enzymes and amino acids that help to moisturize and nourish skin" that is the reason we incorporated sake into our skin brightening  soap for its daily wellness and beauty benefits.  

Sake is rich in enzymes that gently exfoliate the top layer of the skin, without stripping the skin of moisture. The high concentration of amino acids and saccharides also help to smoothen out uneven skin texture, maintain elasticity and replenish the skin of nutrients. Most people in Japan think of the bathtub as washing away not only their sweat and dirt from the day but their fatigue too, so it is typically custom to take baths every night. Everyone can experience this part of the Japanese culture by dipping into a bath of Fresh's sake soak or by using Rue de Neiges beauty soap daily. 

If you’re willing to DIY it, Bougeoir recommends pouring two 75ml bottles of sake into a hot bath. If bathing in sake doesn’t quite sound like your thing, there’s evidence to suggest even just sipping on a glass of the potent beverage can have positive health benefits, such as lowering your risk of developing diabetes and osteoporosis.

See our product recommendations below

Braids are something of a workhorse in the world of hairstyles: they're all at once classic and trendy—and protective, to boot. That being said, there are so many types and styles of braids, it can be difficult to settle on one.

To help manage the overwhelm, we've gathered together 14 of the most popular braided hairstyles and supplemented them with celeb photos so you can see what each style looks like, IRL (in real life). We were also sure to add a couple of tips, tricks, and tutorials along the way.
​

Box Braids are created by securing the hair extension around the base of the natural hair and creating a box-like knot attachment at the root. They were especially popular in the '90s, which gives them a cool-girl vibe when worn today. "Box braids serve as a protective style on textured hair," Lacy Redway, Unilever Global Stylist, TRESemmé Future Stylists Fund Selection Committee Member, and celebrity hairstylist, adds. "It allows you to have your hair protected for a period of time while still being able to style it in various hairstyles using the box braids as the foundation of the hairstyles."
​

Knotless Braids have gained popularity for being a more lightweight, natural-looking alternative to box braids. Unlike traditional box braids, this style doesn't have the traditional knot at the top of each braid. Instead, it is achieved by feeding in the hair mid-braid. "The benefit of the knotless technique (when done properly) is it prevents traction alopecia, which is a common form of hair loss for women who have braids that are installed too tight with the large knots," Williams says. "This technique can take longer to install, but it's worth the health of the hair and scalp."
​

Micro Braids are just like box braids in that they can be created using the same technique. They're just—you guessed it—smaller. The modern-day poster child for micro braids (in our humble opinion) is Zoë Kravitz. She has walked many a red carpet donning the very same chic style, albeit with a couple of hair color switch-ups along the way. "They are designed to be versatile, which is the beauty of them," Redway says. "You can style as you please."
​

Corn Row braids are braids that form narrow parallel strips down the head. They're normally positioned from front to back, but she put a unique twist on a classic look by wearing hers pulled back with a wired braid construction artfully crafted around it.
​

Crown Braids which looks complex and time-consuming but happens to be exactly the opposite. Our favorite way create a crown braid is to start with a traditional side braid before wrapping it up and over the top of the forehead, securing it with bobby pins along the way. We always make sure to leave out a couple face-framing pieces. Be sure to add a spritz of a stronghold hair spray to keep it intact all day long. 

Fishtail Braid is one of our all-time favorite styles as it's playful and unexpected. It's easy to distinguish from other braids since it looks like a mirror reflection of itself. The fishtail braid  is not an actual braid as you divide the hair into only two sections. Create this hairstyle in tiny sections by consistently passing hair over to the other side before swapping the two main strands.

French Braids is a traditional three-piece braid. As you plait the hair together, add a section from either side on each rotation. It's one of the most versatile and chic of braids, which is why we see it so often at red carpet events. Style it in the traditional way, as a single-braided strand running down the nape of the neck, or do as Blunt does and position it to the side for an elegant updo.

With practice, it's an easy style to create. If you need a little refresher, head to YouTube for pointers (no judgment—braiding takes a lot of time and patience).  
​

Dutch Braids on the other hand, is created in the same exact way as you would a French braid—except inverted. Instead of winding the hair over itself as you plait, you wind it underneath the other strands. This small change makes a big difference. You see, instead of the braid flowing inward, it flows outward, which makes the braid pop out slightly. 

The milkmaid braid is almost identical to the aforementioned crown braid, but instead of being situated on the top of the forehead (where an actual crown would sit), it's pushed back a couple of inches to rest more toward the middle of the head. It's also more likely to begin with a center part, as opposed to a side part, for a more traditional look.

To create, "Divide your hair by the nape of your neck in two sections," says Redway. "Braid each section into two braids before crisscrossing them onto themselves and securing them with hair and bobby pins." (By the way, if you've already mastered this style, try a reverse milkmaid braid for a new take.)
​

Waterfall braids look intricate, but luckily, they aren't as complicated as they seem. Think of them like a French braid, but one side of the braid is woven and the opposite part cascades down into the hair. To create a waterfall braid, pretend you are beginning a French braid. Section the hair into three pieces, cross the top section over the middle, and, instead of grabbing more hair, let this section hang down. Cross the remaining pieces over one another, then grab a new piece from the top and incorporate it into the braid. Repeat the steps.
​

3 Strand Braids. This braiding technique is the foundation for the rest of the looks on this list. Without it, the rest of these braids are not possible. To try for yourself, section hair into three strands. Take the left piece and cross it over the middle, making it the new middle. Then, take the right-most piece and cross it over the middle, making it the new middle. Repeat this process over and over until you reach the end of your strands.

Appropriate for any hair type, the three-strand braid can be tightly kept or intentionally loosened to show volume and body.
​

Rope Braids. "The trick with this hairstyle is that it doubles as a second hairstyle," Redway says. "When the hairstyle starts to frizz up, release them and wear your hair down because you will now have beautiful water waves." Unlike many of the other styles on this list, the rope braid only requires two sections of hair. Take one of the sections and twist the hair until the entire section is spiraled. Secure with a clear elastic. Repeat on the other side. Take each section and twist them around one another. Secure at the bottom.
​

Pigtail braids couldn't be easier, and require pulling the hair into two low ponytails before braiding the ends of each. You can then fasten with an elastic and go. The look recalls a childhood style but can easily be made sophisticated, by smoothing flyaways with a flexible-hold gel or Aloe vera.
​

Halo Braids. The halo braid is similar to a crown braid, and consists of long Dutch braids placed around the head and fastened on top, to mimic a halo. Remove a few tendrils to frame the face and keep the look more casual.

Global luxury beauty brands are celebrating the power of Korean brand ambassadors like never before. Only a few months into 2023, Danielle Marsh, a member of the South Korean girl group NewJeans was named YSL Beauty brand ambassador; Armani Beauty appointed NewJeans dancer Hanni as its new global make-up ambassador and Lancôme tapped Squid Game’s Hoyeon Jung.

Founder Giorgio Armani said at the time of Hanni’s appointment that “she has personality, which for me is the most fascinating trait, always.” Appointing Korean actors and pop stars has been de rigueur in luxury fashion for a while now, from G-Dragon of Big Bang’s work with Chanel back in 2015 when the heritage French brand staged their Resort 2016 collection in Seoul, to more recent appointments such as Hanni at Gucci in 2022.

It is not only K-pop stars who are working as global ambassadors. In fact, celebrities from all over Asia are being noticed by more and more high-end brands. For example, Chinese singer Jackson Yee is the global ambassador for Armani Beauty, while Japanese model Koki models for Estée Lauder. This is a far cry from just five years prior, where Western faces represented luxury brands.

So why are beauty brands now turning to K-ambassadors?  Is it the rise in the popularity of K-pop?
​
While it could be a potential factor, it is not the main reason. According to Rocky Chi, a luxury brand expert in London, it is because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Europe’s largest luxury buying demographic is Chinese visitors. Due to travel bans, their largest demographic cannot travel to Europe and visit their brick-and-mortar stores.

Soon, brands had to accept that the biggest proportion of their customers come from Asia.
Marketing expert Charlie Gu agrees. He states that during the COVID-19 pandemic, the audience who made the biggest contributions to luxury brands is Asia, specifically the Greater China region.
Because of that, brands have started to elevate the presence of their Asian ambassadors, making many of them global ambassadors. This is done to drive excitement in the region and hopefully boost sales.

Many of these Asian names are not known in the West, but this is not seen as a problem. After it all, it is the inverse of the situation they had in the past — Hollywood stars were not particularly famous in China, and yet their faces were still plastered on billboards in the country. Of course, the popularity of K-pop did play a role, according to Charlie Gu. The global appeal of K-pop and the rising of Asian talents in Hollywood have helped contribute to the number of Asian global brand ambassadors for luxury brands.

Additionally, Asian celebrities tend to attract a younger audience, which helps bridge the gap of luxury shopping to a younger demographic. The West has also moved away from traditional Caucasian-centric advertising. With the rise of activism against Asian hate, it is crucial now more than ever that brands push for more diversity and inclusivity with their advertising.

​We can expect more K-pop stars to represent global fashion brands as the genre becomes more mainstream. Which K-pop idol do you want to see as a global brand ambassador?

Jane Birkin’s Parisian, effortless aesthetic was the inspiration for an endless number of trends, from her famous wicker basket bags to to high-waisted jeans. But perhaps her most coveted look of all? Her signature wispy bangs. The popularity of Birkin bangs has ebbed and flowed over the years, but we’re certainly riding the wave right now.

​“I believe the resurgence of this style of bangs has much to do with the world’s obsession with Wednesday star Jenna Ortega, who rocks the look,” says Castillo Bataille, hairstylist. "Her character in the show and real life is a vibe and energy we all want to have." Another modern-day celeb that has given the Birkin bang a resurgence is Anne Hathaway, who brought them back while paying homage to her character in The Devil Wears Prada after her character gets her makeover. And in recent years, "Dakota Johnson has been the ultimate poster child for the Birkin bang, pairing them with her effortless style. For me, [that combo] is a chef’s kiss,” says Jae-Manuel Cardenas, hairstylist.

Already convinced that you want to try out this Birkin bangs? Here's what you need to know.


What Are Birkin Bangs? 
Jane's variation of bangs was “a short, blunt style that landed just above the brows with thinner ends," says Bataille. "My favorite thing about these bangs is that they require less hair than normal blunt bangs." While the newer take isn't as short as Birkin's original fringe, the concept of having blunt, wispy ends remains. Another upside: "This technique leaves more texture and dimension around the face,” he says.

Who Should Try Them
 “This style works well with those that have thin, straight hair. That doesn’t mean all other textures are out! These bangs can be cut into any texture. The final look will still give the same effect and vibe,” says Bataille.
If you’re getting bangs cut from scratch, it’s always best to go a tad longer than you think you need to make sure the hair doesn’t bounce up too much — then have your stylist cut more as needed. 

What to Ask Your Stylist 
As with any new hairstyle or cut, “it’s best to bring in a photo reference of someone with a similar face shape and hair texture to yours wearing the style that you want,” says Cardenas. "This helps make sure you and your hairstylist are on the same page."
Your stylist should know what to do from there, but when they’re talking you through the process, you can “ask them to thin out the ends a bit. Also, ask not to open up the face too much," says Bataille. "The idea is to keep the bang area tight and flirty to the face — this bang style is a bit different from a normal blunt bang. The width of these bangs should stay fairly tight to the eyes and brows, and the ends should be thin and wispy."

How to Style Birkin Bangs
 “Style these bangs with a round brush and a ping-pong size amount Mousse.  The hold will keep these bangs in place with a natural, carefree finish,” says Bataille. It’s also important to maintain the wispiness of the look as Jane did: “Make sure not your bangs aren’t styled too round or ‘bubbly’ — you want them to be on the straighter side. Otherwise it would feel like a different bang,” adds Cardenas.

What Maintenance Is Like 
Though Birkin bangs may look effortless, keep in mind that all bangs do require a bit of extra work to be styled daily to get them to look the way you want them to. However, the payoff is worth it: “Birkin bangs, when done correctly, can totally transform your face with the right shape,” says Cardenas.
Maintenance will also include “a regular bang trim every few weeks to keep them at the perfect length,” adds Cardenas. Luckily, when you’re ready to grow them out, this style makes the process easy. “These bangs are cut using a smaller guideline with less weight at the ends, making them easier to grow out than other bang styles,” says Bataille. "They simply blend back into the hair in the future."

What’s more legendary than the Hôtel du Cap-Eden-Roc, playground of yore for the likes of F. Scott Fitzgerald, Marlene Dietrich, and the Duke and Duchess of Windsor? Perhaps a marriage of two luxury icons would fit the bill? This summer sees Dior Spa Eden-Roc open on the lush grounds of the exceptional French hotel. Overlooking the southern tip of Cap d’Antibes, Eden-Roc is world-renowned for its gardens and sultry Côte d’Azur light, immortalized in an eponymous fragrance by Dior Parfums.

But the connections between the French luxury house and the estate don’t end there—indeed, Monsieur Dior’s own Mediterranean manse, Château de la Colle Noire, is less than an hour away by car. Dior was enamored of the region’s beauty; fittingly, the rocky coastline inspired the spa’s waiting room, done in shades of pale sand. Treatment rooms are swathed in the maison’s signature Toile du Jouy patterned fabric, while a gazebo and cabana beckon guests out of doors.

Maison Dior and Hydrafacial treatments are on offer, while four customizable, elements-inspired “Dioriginels” rituals tempt patrons looking for a more holistic approach to their revitalization regimen. If that’s not enough, there’s even an onyx-clad affusion suite with a sauna and ice fountain mere steps away. Bonne journée!

There's plenty to love about summer: long days, beach dips, breezy cotton dresses and glowing, sun-kissed skin, to name just a few. But the season doesn't come without its own set of beauty problems.

Below, facialist Jocelyn Petroni, who tends to the million-dollar visages of supermodels including Miranda Kerr and Megan Gale, shares her prevention and treatment recommendations.

#1: Acne breakouts
"One of the main reasons people can experience breakouts in the summer is from sunscreen, due to excess build-up of dead skin cells and sebum (oil) that leads to bacteria growth. The best way to tackle these breakouts is to ensure you double cleanse and thoroughly exfoliate your skin," explains Petroni.

"Maintaining exfoliation helps to prevent breakouts, unclog pores and release any congestion from the skin that may be caused by sunscreen. I recommend looking for an exfoliator that is dense with small granules so that it can lift away dry dead skin cells, and remove impurities and build up from within our pores." 

#2: Sunburn
"After summer, particularly in a harsh climate, sun damage is visible in almost every single individual," says Petroni.

"Sun damage presents itself in many ways and at different stages after sun exposure. The skin can become red, pigmentation becomes more visible, pores are more visible (due to the increase in oil production from warmth), and skin can become more oily and dehydrated."

"Straight after sun exposure, apply a soothing and hydrating product to help counteract the dehydration and heat damage—look for ingredients like aloe vera and chamomile. Aloe vera can be broken straight off the plant and rubbed directly onto the skin. It's a little sticky, but a beautiful soothing and hydrating remedy for sun burn. If you buy aloe vera gel, keep it in the fridge for added cooling benefits."

#3: Hyperpigmentation
"When it comes to pigmentation caused from sun damage, prevention is definitely much easier than treatment! So it's essential that you wear a product with very high sun protection every day, regardless of your intended sun exposure."

"To help fade visible pigmentation at home look for products that contain AHA's and BHA's in a percentage of no less than 5%. Ingredients like lactic and glycolic fruit acids (from milk and sugar cane respectively) are most efficient in breaking up pigmentation." 

"Beauty therapists can also help to treat and fade epidermal (surface) pigmentation with peels and topical skin treatments that contain active ingredients like glycolic acid, Vitamin C and Vitamin A. Most topical pigmentation treatments require night time use only as they can make your skin sun (photo) sensitive, and SPF must be worn during the day."

#4: Dryness
"Summer weather produces excess oil, but can also create dehydration and dryness in the skin. Excess oil needs to be cleaned out and hydrating ingredients need to be put back in. Long term dehydration can create a leathery textured skin that lacks fresh plump hydrated skin cells," explains Petroni.

"For home use, I recommend a B2 serum, and for an in-office treatment, ask your facialist about Omnilux. Omnilux light therapy deeply hydrates the skin and counteracts sun damage. It stimulates a healing response in the skin plumping and rejuvenating dehydrated, sun damaged skin cells."

Taking care of our skin is imperative for keeping breakouts and irritation at bay. And while we can't always control what happens to our skin (hello, hormones), we can maintain the tools we use on our faces and ensure they aren't exacerbating any problems. Basic principles like keeping our fingers off our faces and routinely disinfecting our phone screens are well-known by most, but secret bacteria could be hiding in your products—particularly your makeup brushes—and jeopardizing your skin health. Ahead, we asked board-certified dermatologists Michael Garner, MD, and Nazanin Saedi, MD, to explain why it's important to wash our brushes and how often we should be replacing them, amongst other tips that will help save your skin. Keep scrolling for our comprehensive guide.

Meet Our Expert

•  Michael Garner, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist, partner at Boone Dermatology Clinic, and member of the Matter of Fact Skincare advisory board.
• Nazanin Saedi, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist with Dermatology Associates of Plymouth Meeting in Pennsylvania.

How Often Should You Replace Your Makeup Brushes?
Nazanin recommends replacing your makeup brushes every two years. If they are beyond repair from not being washed frequently enough and the bristles are stiff or feel oily due to too much product build-up that won't wash out, it's best practice to replace them  immediately. Makeup brushes are usually composed of synthetic and non-synthetic hairs, depending on the manufacturer and type. If you keep your brushes clean and bacteria-free, they can last a long time (especially if they are made with quality hair such as sable).

Why Do You Need to Wash Your Makeup Brushes?
While it isn't anyone's favorite chore, keeping your makeup brushes clean is imperative for the state of your face. "Not washing your makeup brushes regularly can have several negative effects on your skin," says Garner. "[Dirty brushes] accumulate makeup residue, oils, dead skin cells, and bacteria over time. When you reuse these brushes without cleaning them, you reintroduce these impurities to your skin, leading to clogged pores, breakouts, and irritation. The accumulation of bacteria on the brushes can also promote the growth of harmful microorganisms, potentially causing infections or other skin issues." Nazanin concurs. "We are all guilty of not washing our makeup brushes as often as we should, even me," she tells us."Yet not washing your brushes can lead to bacteria build-up and breakouts."

What Happens If You Don't Regularly Wash Your Brushes?
"There are several common skin conditions that can develop from bacteria on dirty makeup brushes," Garner tells us. "Some common conditions include acne breakouts, folliculitis (inflammation of the hair follicles), staphylococcus or streptococcus infections, and even fungal and/or yeast infections. These conditions can cause redness, inflammation, and itching and sometimes require medical treatment. More serious infections are theoretically possible and are even more reasons to ensure regular cleaning of your makeup brushes. But these situations are, thankfully, very rare."

If you do experience breakouts or clogged pores due to dirty brushes (it happens), Garner's advice is to exfoliate. "Regular, but not excessive, exfoliation can help remove dead skin cells and unclog pores. Opt for gentle exfoliants that won't be too harsh on your skin.  Chemical exfoliants with ingredients like salicylic acid or glycolic acid can be particularly effective for addressing breakouts. Unfortunately, many people fall into the trap of exfoliating their skin too frequently, [creating] a vicious cycle of irritation and disruption of the skin's natural barrier maintenance processes."

How Often Should You Wash Your Makeup Brushes?
"Ideally, you should be washing your brushes once a week, even if you only use the brush once," says Nazanin. "The American Academy of Dermatology recommends washing makeup brushes once every 7-10 days. The frequency of cleaning your makeup brushes depends on how often you use them and the type of products you use," adds Garner. "As a general guideline, it's recommended to clean your brushes at least once every two weeks if you use them regularly. However, if you use them daily or have sensitive or acne-prone skin, it's better to clean them once a week or even after each use. It's important to maintain good hygiene practices to minimize the buildup of bacteria and product residue on the brushes."

Keeping Your Makeup Brushes Clean
Now that we know how imperative it is to wash your makeup brushes, what are the best products to keep them clean and help preserve the health of our skin? "If you look online, people recommend all kinds of products to wash your makeup brushes, anything from Dawn dish soap to makeup brush cleaners," says Nazanin. "I personally recommend using your face wash. It cleans your face, and you don't react to it." This tip is brilliant for those with sensitive skin, as different cleaning agents can sometimes cause unwanted reactions.

"Use a gentle antibacterial soap or a specialized brush cleaner," advises Garner. "Gently swirl the brush bristles in the cleanser, working it into a lather. Be careful not to wet the area where the bristles meet the handle, as it can weaken the glue holding the bristles." He recommends cleansing each brush and running it under warm water until all residue has been washed out and the water runs clear. Lay brushes flat on a towel overnight to ensure they are completely dry before using them again.

Using a primer can truly make all the difference. But those new to the world of makeup may wonder what, exactly, is the point. Makeup primers are used underneath eyeshadow, foundation, lipstick, mascara, and even nail polish to create a smooth base that helps keep your other products in place all day.

But primers can also reduce the amount of makeup you use and make application a little easier. Essentially, they're meant to create a barrier between the product and your skin, giving you beautiful and long-lasting results. Since there are specific options for different parts of our beauty routine, we're breaking each one down with pro makeup artists Juliette Perreux and Lindsey Trop.

Read on to find out what makeup primer is used for, how it works, and the best way to apply it.

What Is Primer?
Makeup primer is used as a base to improve the rest of your makeup application. Primer can enhance many parts of your beauty routine, including your eyes, face, lashes, lips, and nails. Face primer, for example, can be used to smooth out pores, create a base for long-lasting makeup, manage oily skin, or prevent excessive shine, explains Perreux. Trop adds: "Whether you have dry skin, oily skin, dull skin, are concerned about acne, hyperpigmentation,  sun protection, pollutants, or have multiple concerns, there is a primer out there for you."

And if you're looking to minimize the number of products you use altogether, take a page out of Trop's book. "When I work with clients, I sometimes try to minimize the number of products needed, so I use a primer that acts as an all-in-one: hydrator, smoother, and illuminator."

Types of Makeup Primers

• Mattifying face primer: If you have oily skin, a mattifying primer will be your go-to to prolong the wear of your foundation. Specifically, Trop says to go for a silicone-based one, as it creates a great mattifying barrier between the skin and makeup and has the added benefit of blurring and smoothing pores.
• Hydrating face primer: "Hydrating primers are ideal for dry skin, especially those that have skincare ingredients like hyaluronic acid and antioxidants," suggests Trop. "Avoid using a silicone-based primer if you're of this skin type, as it could 'pill' over dry skin."
• Color-correcting primers: The color of these primers is designed to counteract underlying skin tones. For instance, green primers are used to correct redness while blue primers offset sallow or yellow tones.
• Blurring primer: According to Perreux, blurring primers are less about mattifying and more about smoothing, which is ideal for mature skin types to diminish the look of fine lines and wrinkles.
• Eyeshadow primer: Eyeshadow is notorious for wearing off by mid-day, and it seldom stays in place through gym workouts or on rainy or humid days. A simple primer can fix all of that, and it helps with your eyeliner as well. "Eye primers can color-correct the eyelid before makeup application, nourish and smooth the eyelid, and prevent the skin’s natural oils from breaking down the makeup," explains Trop.
• Mascara primer: If you have trouble with your lashes holding a curl, try a mascara primer. They're also often made with nourishing ingredients that condition the lashes and add additional volume and length.
• Lip primer: Not everyone will need a lip primer, but if you like to play up your lips and want all-day color, it's a good move. It can keep your lipstick from bleeding and create a smooth surface that will hold the color longer, perfect for wearing underneath a matte liquid lipstick of bold lip color. If you're going for a natural look, it can also give a quick boost to otherwise nude lips.
• Nail primer: For the DIY nail artists out there, a nail primer can add a layer of protection that keeps polish looking great longer. Like the other kinds of primers, it gives your nails a smooth base coat and helps the polish adhere evenly. It's also recommended under acrylic nails.

How to Apply Primer Before Foundation
If you're using a moisturizer, apply that first, then let your skin dry for a few minutes. Beginning at the center of your face, apply just a light layer of primer, dabbing it in with your fingers or a makeup sponge. Allow the primer to dry for a few minutes before applying your foundation. The key is to make sure the primer you select complements your foundation. For instance, if you have a silicone-based primer and a water-based foundation, your foundation could "pill" on top of the primer, says Trop. "If you have a silicone-based primer, it's best to use a silicone-based foundation on top," she says.

How to Apply Primer Before Other Makeup
When it comes to eyeshadow primers, Trop notes that they can be applied with either your fingers, a brush, or a sponge. "For color-correcting eye primers, I prefer to use a brush to ensure I'm targeted in my application," she explains. "For translucent primers, I like to use my fingers so I can tell how much product is being applied and where." 

To apply mascara primer, curl your lashes, then sweep the primer from the base to the tips. Do just one eye at a time because you want to follow up with your favorite mascara before the primer dries. In the end, your lashes will look lush and fabulous.

For lip primers, it depends on the type of packaging. It may come with a wand, as a squeeze tube, or as a pot, says Trop. "With a wand and squeeze tube, you can apply it directly to your lips. If it's in a pot, it likely has a thicker consistency, so I'd recommend using your fingers as it may be difficult to clean the brush afterward,"

Do You Really Need Primer?
Yes and no. Hear us out. They can be beneficial for certain seasons (think: helping your eyeshadow stay in place during melting temps). Also, as Perreux notes, in the winter, there are elements around us (like wind, snow, and thus, tearing eyes) that can make eye primer your friend. For special events, Perreux and Trop say that primer can be beneficial. "Special occasions [like a wedding] bring about tears, sweat, and lots of hugging and kissing, so a primer can be super helpful to keep everything in place and from smudging or moving around," says Perreux.

How to Control Shine When Using Primer
Perreux prefers to check in on shine control with powder or blotting papers. "If you use a proper weight moisturizer for your skin type, the foundation should adhere just fine and give a beautiful finish," she says. "However, if you deal with texture, redness, or dullness, a primer will only help, not hurt."

The word “pores" has almost 3 billion hits on Google – and the number one, most asked question? “How to get rid of pores.” Tbf, it’s an affliction that affects most of us, Regina George included. And, alongside ingrown hairs, rogue spider veins and wonky eyebrows, open pores speckled across our nose and cheeks are one of beauty's most persistent grievances. They're also one of the hardest problems to shift. Of course, we're beautiful just the way we are – pores and all – but if they're bugging you, we've got some expert advice lined up that should help.There’s been much debate over the years about how exactly pores work. But contrary to popular belief pores can't be opened and closed like doors (they don't have muscles). However, there is some merit to applying hot and cold water to make them appear more or less pronounced (more on that later). So what can be done about our God-given orifices? We asked Dr Nina Bal, facial aesthetics doctor and founder of FacialSculpting to run us through everything we need to know.

What are visible pores?
They may appear to be tiny dots on the surface of our skin, but pores are actually the small openings to our hair follicles. “There are two different types of pore,” says Nina. “One releases sebum (the body’s natural oil) and the other releases sweat.” Though tiny, “pores enable the oil, sweat and sebum to go from our glands to the surface of our skin, which is essential for healthy skin.” So think of them like your skin's window. 

How many pores is normal?
The average adult will have around 5 million pores on their body and 20,000 on their face. But, “generally we can’t see pores in the skin,” says Nina. It’s only when enlarged that they become visible.
​
What causes large visible pores?
Usually, pores are genetically determined, but there are other factors which can affect the visibility of our pores. For instance, an overproduction of sebum can make pores appear larger. “If oil, toxins, dirt, and makeup collect in the pore, this can weigh it down and stretch it, making our pores appear much bigger than they are on the surface of the skin,” explains Nina.
​

Ageing skin is another culprit. “The skin around the pore can become less elastic as we age, making it appear larger,” says Nina. Likewise, the sun dehydrates your skin, explains Nina, which makes the oil glands over-grown, “this in turn makes pores look bigger,” she notes. As for other factors, inadequate skin cleansing, occlusive (or overly thick) makeup, and non-medical grade skincare (which may use ingredients that block pores) can also contribute. 

Are there triggers that make pores more visible?“Sunlight plays a part in making them look more visible,” says Nina, so if you’re out in bright, clear sunlight, they’re likely to show up more. And, “makeup can also make pores seem bigger than they actually are,” she says. “Powders and foundation can settle into those tiny holes over the course of the day, making them appear larger.”
​
Is it true that pores can open and close – i.e warm water can open them and cold water can close them?“No! It’s a myth! Pores do not open and close like doors,” says Nina. Why? They’re simply openings in our skin and, crucially, they don’t have muscles attached to them so they can’t pull and contract.

Instead, cold water can make blood vessels constrict, making pores appear smaller for the short time they’re cool, while hot water and steam can loosen up the sebum and debris inside the pore, enabling it to be squeezed out more easily (though we know we’re not really supposed to). So, “they can temporarily appear to close with cold and open with heat but for a very short time, they then they go back to normal size,” says Nina.

How to get rid of pores?In terms of actually getting rid of pores, it's not possible. “Unfortunately, once pores have stretched, they cannot go back to their original size,” says Nina. However, the good news is, we can make them appear smaller. “Large pores can continue enlarging if you allow them to stretch out and become clogged with whiteheads, blackheads, sebum, and dirt,” Nina warns.
​
How can we minimise the appearance of pores?“You can do this by cleansing skin twice a day and exfoliating twice a week in order to remove oil, dirt, sebum and cellular debris,” says Nina. “Minimising sun exposure is also key since UV radiation breaks down collagen and elastin, which in turn expands the pore size,” adds Nina, “so using an SPF of 40+ every day is vital.” 

What can we do to treat them?It’s an oldie but a goodie – prevention is better than cure, since, as we’ve already established, once pores stretch, they won’t become smaller. “While you may not be able to shrink your pore size, you can ensure your pores don’t get any bigger by following a proper skin care plan,” says Nina who recommends using medical grade skincare products such as salicylic acid, alpha hydroxy acid, glycolic acid, retinol and non-comedogenic makeup (i.e. lightweight makeup that won’t clog your pores).
And for a little extra help, Nina suggests using a makeup primer. “A makeup primer not only helps your makeup stay in place, but it smooths and fills the surface of the skin which can help reduce the appearance of enlarged pores.”

We've seen our fair share of Til Tok-viral products, but none have gone SO viral SO fast as the Dior Rosy Glow Blush ($40). The pH-adjusting custom blush took the app by storm, and it was impossible to scroll #Beautytok without seeing the logo-encrusted bubblegum pink powder. Even when the product was out of stock (which it was for months on end), the hype has only gotten bigger, confirming its status as one of the most sought-after products, possibly of all time.

Flash forward to this summer, and the Dior Rosy Glow Blush is as popular as ever. In fact, the brand just re-vamped the formula and added four new shades, meant to be more inclusive. Ahead, everything you need to know about the new formula, plus our honest reviews.

The Product

Other than the blush's gorgeous packaging, the main draw of the Dior Backstage Rosy Glow Blush is that it adapts to your unique skin tone—and that's not going anywhere. The product still has the "color reviver" technology it's known for and is infused with an ingredient called eosin to react with the skin's pH and humidity levels for a custom flush. The main difference is that the powder is even more soft and silky, resulting in a seamless blend.

The two existing shades, 001 Pink, the soft pink that put the product on the map, and 004 Coral, are joined by four brand-new shades: 006 Berry, a deep plum; 012 Rosewood, a warm brown pink: 015 Cherry, a subtle red; and 020 Mahogany, a deep warm brown. Each shade of blush has a corresponding shade in the equally viral Dior Lip Glow Oils.

As the Summer heat rolls in, a ‘less-is-more’ approach to beauty tends to take over. An effective way of executing this look while still sporting a fresh feel is focusing on dewy skin and adding a pop of colour with a gorgeous blush.  CHANEL Makeup Artist Julie Cusson takes us through the steps she took, and the products used to create this Summer glow.

To create dewy, choose water!
​
​Make hydration a central point of your skincare routine to create the perfect dewy canvas by using a serum as the first step. Energize, hydrate, and plump the skin to create a dewy complexion, and choose water-based skincare products such as a microdroplets formula with microfluidics technology to ensure the skin stays moist. Finish this ritual with a facial mist to seal this hydration effect.

Likewise, for foundation, enhance the complexion by using Les Beiges Water-Fresh Tint. It utilizes micro-droplet and pigments from microfluidics technology to keep hydration, skin moist, and a dewy texture. Also, it will provide a natural glow with a luminous complexion and a bare skin effect.

Cream instead of powder!
Sculpt the face with a creamy shade to create a light contouring and a second skin texture by using Les Beiges Healthy Glow Bronzing Cream. For blush, also choose a creamy texture instead of powder, such as the N°1 de CHANEL Lip and Cheek Balm. The ultimate secret is to dab with your fingers the cream blush. You can add and layer as you like and not make a mistake, as the gesture of dabbing with fingers will make the cream blush melt onto the skin.
For lips, use a tinted lip balm. Lips will stay hydrated and plump with a flush of colour.

To get the full dewy makeup look with a pop of blush:
First, prep the skin with and energize the skin with Hydra Beauty Serum, Micro Cream, and Micro Crème Yeux. Correct dark circles with Sublimage Le Correcteur Yeux in shade 70. Sculpt the face by using Healthy Glow Bronzing Cream in 390 Soleil Tan Bronze. To enhance and add glow, apply Les Beiges Water-Fresh Tint in Medium Deep all over the face in a circular motion. Create a natural smoky eye by using Les Beiges Eyeshadow Palette in Medium and slightly pencil the eyes with Stylo Yeux Waterproof in 36 shade Prune Intense. For this editorial, I didn’t use mascara to keep the effortless vibe, but for a sophisticated look, use a waterproof mascara such as Le Volume Waterproof. Fill in the eyebrow by using Stylo Sourcils Waterproof in 818 Brun Noir. Dab N°1 de CHANEL Lip and Cheek Balm in shade 5 Lively Rosewood on cheekbones and slightly towards the temples. To get rid of the unwanted shine, powder the tip of the nose and between the eyebrows with Les Beiges Healthy Glow Sheer Powder in 40. Paint lips with Rouge Coco Baume in 930 Sweet Tart, a delicate mauve colour. Coat nails with a brownish-rosewood shade, such as Le Vernis in shade 117 Passe- Muraille.