If you're a fan of eyeshadow, you'll more than likely have run into the problem of eyeshadow creasing before. Unfortunately, it happens to the best of us, and it's to be expected when you put a product on your eyes where everyone naturally has folds (seriously, without them the eyelid wouldn't actually open and close properly). The main culprit of eyeshadow creasing though isn't actually the folds on your eyelids. It's caused by the eyelids' natural oil production. That oil (which is created to keep the skin properly moisturized) then starts to soak through the eyeshadow, breaking it down, and those lines we see on our lids are the result of the oil and product mixing and getting caught in the eyelid folds.

But while it may be an expected side effect of eyeshadow on the lid, that doesn't mean there aren't ways to limit how much creasing goes on. In fact, there are a number of hacks you can try to keep those pesky eyeshadow lines from ruining your look.

Make sure you start with clean lids
One of the first steps to take when it comes to making sure there's no eyeshadow creasing is to start with totally clean lids. As we already know, eyeshadow creasing is caused by excess oil around the eyes, so making sure your lids are clean and dry to start with will help to eliminate a lot of the oil causing the problem. You can even clean your lids with an oil-free eye makeup remover before getting started.

But they're not the only methods you can try to get rid of that extra oil that could potentially ruin your makeup look. "I prefer to then spray some toner all over the face for a clean canvas to remove any excess oil," celebrity makeup artist Anu Kaushik suggested to Vogue India. "For those with an extremely oily skin type, I'd go a step further by using blotting paper around the area."

Don't forget the primer!
One of the absolute most important steps for preventing eyeshadow creasing is using eyeshadow primer. Just like a primer you'd apply to your face, an eyeshadow primer does a similar job of preparing your lid for makeup. "Primers create a smooth, clean canvas that adheres eyeshadow to the skin for the highest vibrancy and payoff," Anastasia Beverly Hills Pro Artist, Talia Cich, told Byrdie. "This helps to create a barrier between the skin and the eyeshadow," makeup artist Roseanna Velin added to Beauty Daily by Clarins. "There is constant skin-to-skin contact on the eyelid, and it can become quite oily throughout the day which makes the eyeshadow separate and crease."

There are multiple eyeshadow primers on the market, so it may take a little trial and error to find the right one for you. However, a primer with a little grip is best for keeping crease lines at bay. "It essentially grips the eyeshadow to skin and locks it in place for all-day wear," Cich explained.

Waterproof concealer or a foundation can be used as a primer if you don't have one to hand, though, celebrity makeup artist Renée Loiz confessed that primer is most likely to give you the best results as it's specifically designed for this specific issue. After all, concealer itself can easily crease if it's applied too heavily.

And remember to opt for powder
Powder products will be your best friend if you have oily lids that tend to crease. That's because powder makeup can help to keep a lid (pun intended) on all that excess oil that caused creasing. You have a couple of options here, which you can either use alone or combine for the best results. The first option is opting for only powder eyeshadows. "Powders are less likely to crease, as well as cream-to-powder formulas, but with just a straight-up cream eyeshadow product, you will definitely have creasing," Renée Loiz explained to Bougeoir.

You can also try a translucent setting powder on the lid to really mattify the shadow and keep it in place. "The powder will set the cream or liquid products and lock them in place with a smooth, matte finish," Talia Cich explained, but they noted you're best to use this method after applying either a concealer or foundation to the eye before the shadow, as they're designed to work together. You'll then want to finish up with a setting spray that's safe for the eye, as this will also help keep everything in place.

Try layering your products
Another pro-tip for keeping eyeshadow creasing at bay is to layer up your products. After all, it's only logical that the more powder or mattifying products that are on your lid, the more they'll help with excess oil production. Cassie Lomas, makeup artist and B.Makeup ambassador, explained her process to Glamour, sharing, "Apply light layers of a primer, a foundation, and then a few layers of eyeshadow to stop any movement." Equally, taking your time and applying your products slowly will allow each one to really settle into the skin — and it'll make your finished product that much more flawless, too!

Renée Loiz is also a fan of layering products for the best results, though she focuses more on stacking up eye-specific items. Plus, if you try Loiz's method, you can give eyeshadows that aren't powders a fair go. "Layering is great. I recommend using an eyeshadow crayon with liquid eyeshadow to prevent creasing. Eyeshadow crayons are creamy and glide on beautifully, and they set on the eyelid flawlessly, as do liquid eyeshadows," she told Bougeoir.

And make sure you're applying your eye products properly
There may be more in the application of your eye products than you might think. It turns out that the way in which you apply products to your eye can actually play a big part in creating (or not). When it comes to your primer, Renée Loiz explained to Byrdiethat the best way to stop those creases is, "Apply a thin layer across eyelids and blend in. Make sure the entire area [where] you're applying eyeshadow is covered with the eye primer," she shared.

Then, when it comes to your eyeshadow, you'll want to practice an application method that may be a little different from what you're used to. "I use a firm brush to apply eyeshadow and really press it onto the lid, and then blend it," Roseanna Velin told Vogue India. "This way, the eyeshadow is quite well compressed onto the eyeshadow base. This really helps it to stay put." If you're trying cream products though, Anu Kaushik recommended ditching the makeup brushes entirely. "Use your fingertips. Gentle padding motions will give you control and avoid creasing."

 In the fragrant resin family, myrrh is almost always overshadowed by its famous older brother, frankincense. Often, myrrh goes as if in addition to incense, it is rarely discussed independently, especially in detail. I think that this is completely unfair: from the point of view of both botany and chemistry (the substances that determine the smell and the olfactory profile itself) frankincense and myrrh are quite different.
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Today one can finally focus entirely and only on this extraordinary plant, the resin that is obtained from this plant, the perfume materials obtained from this resin and the fragrances that contain these materials.

Both frankincense trees of the genus Boswellia (lat. Boswellia) and myrrh (officially - Commiphora myrrh, lat. Commiphora myrrha) belong to the family Burseraceae (lat. Burseraceae). To use the analogy of a large human family, frankincense and myrrh are like cousins. From the Greek, the official name translates approximately as "bringing resin."

Resin (gum-resin, to be more precise) is formed in special cells of the tree bark. Once upon a time, people saw resin oozing from the tree injured by animals chewing on the bark. Then they began to make incisions on the bark of trees and collect harden pieces of its resin. Trees after such a procedure require from 6 months to 2 years to recover, otherwise, especially if there is little rainfall, the tree might wither and die.

The word myrrh comes from ancient Greek (μυρρα, σμυρνα), randomly from Arabic (مر meaning "bitter"). Therefore, sometimes it is also called bitter myrrh, which is to some extent a tautology.
In biblical times, good incense could cost more than gold - so the gifts of the Magi were not at all symbolic. At the same time, myrrh, as a rule, was three times more expensive than incense, although incense has always been much more in demand. Now frankincense resin is produced annually at several hundred tons, myrrh - 4-5 times less: 50 years ago this value was about 70 tons per year.

Myrrh essential oil is obtained by steam distillation. The extraction of essential oil from resins requires some knowledge and skill, so distillation is usually carried out not on the spot, but the resin is taken to a specially equipped production facility.

Myrrh oil is an oily, but not very viscous, pale yellow to pale orange or amber liquid. The smell is warm-spicy, often with a very distinctive, sharply balsamic, slightly medicinal top note, without any terpene notes. The sweetness builds up to a deep, warm-spicy and fragrant dry scent that is completely unique and hard to replicate. Metallic and very characteristic gardenia-mushroom nuances are often noted in the smell of myrrh.

The essential oil cannot boast of any particular persistence. The taste of myrrh oil is warm, somewhat sharp, but very rich and pleasant. Over time, myrrh essential oil thickens, but the smell, as many believe, only gets better.

Myrrh essential oil, as expected, performs well in oriental fragrances, woody-balsamic fragrances and heavy narcotic floral bouquets. But it is also indispensable in realistic woody, "forest" accords, where it works great together with mossy and coniferous notes, petitgrain, juniper berry oil, etc. To a limited extent, myrrh oil is also used in the food industry for flavorings.

Even more popular are the products of myrrh extraction: resinoid and absolute. In the first case, this is a direct extraction of aromatic substances with alcohol (the tincture is then cooled to get rid of heavy ballast substances) or a classic two-stage extraction in the second case. After extraction, the alcohol is removed by distillation under vacuum. At the end of this procedure, a small amount of a low-volatility, odorless, high-boiling solvent is often added, this has two main goals: firstly, the extract does not "burn", and secondly, it remains liquid and is much easier to work with.

Pure absolute is a dark brown soft viscous mass. The smell of the absolute is deep, vanilla-ambery and often phenolic-smoky (somewhat similar to guaiac), balsamic, with the above-mentioned earthy-mushroom (and often lactone-coconut) and licorice-gourmand tones, which are often described as reminiscent of creamy toffee. Myrrh extraction products, due to the content of rather heavy substances, are much more stable and long-lasting than essential oil.

Aromas where myrrh would play a major role or be included in the name may not be so many, but they certainly exist. The profile of myrrh is still quite specific, as they say - for an amateur, but there are definitely such amateurs.

Even if we forget for a moment that the white "candies" of this collection are designed to be layered and combined with other fragrances, Myrrh is quite viable as a standalone fragrance. Jacques Cavalier managed to notice and fix all the important features of the myrrh profile, without overloading or weighing down the composition.
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Allegra Myrrh stands a little apart from all the amplifying enhancers and varied splendor of the collection: it will take the fragrance into a slightly pensive, detached mood. It is the most philosophical and mystical fragrance of the collection, so if you urgently need to turn a perfume wardrobe of carefree fun into an insidious weapon of femme fatale mystery, then you know what to do.

WHAT DOES VANILLA MEAN?
The word "vanilla" comes from the Spanish word "vainilla", which literally means "little pod". The name vanilla is used to refer to both the orchid plant and the aromatic pods it produces.

The use of the word "vanilla" dates back to the 16th century, when the Spanish conquistadors discovered the plant in Mexico and appreciated its characteristic flavour and aroma. They called it "vainilla" because of the elongated shape of the pods.

IN THE BEGINNING...
The history of vanilla goes back to the origins of the Mayan civilization, where it was used to perfume sacred drinks. Vanilla is native to the tropical regions of Central and South America, and was cultivated exclusively by indigenous peoples. During the colonization of the Americas, the Spanish conquistadors discovered vanilla and brought it to Europe. However, cultivating vanilla outside its natural habitat proved difficult, until a hand-pollination process was discovered in the late 18th century on Reunion Island, revolutionizing the vanilla industry. Today, vanilla is grown in several tropical countries and continues to be one of the most prized spices in the world.

DID YOU KNOW? In 1841, on the island of Bourbon (now Reunion Island), Edmond Albius, a young slave, made a revolutionary discovery. He perfected a technique for the manual fertilization of the vanilla orchid by distinguishing the male and female organs of the flower, then pollinating them with a wooden thorn. A few days later, the flower transformed into a precious vanilla pod.

VANILLA CULTIVATION
The main vanilla-producing regions are Madagascar, the world's largest producer, followed by Reunion, Comoros, Tahiti, and other tropical countries such as Mexico, French Polynesia, Indonesia and India. These regions provide the ideal climatic conditions for growing vanilla.

The vanilla plant is a climbing orchid grown to produce vanilla beans. Vanilla cultivation requires a tropical climate with an average temperature of around 25°C. Vanilla generally flowers after two to three years of planting. The delicate flowers have to be pollinated by hand, as bees and other pollinators cannot reach them easily. Growers gently pollinate by opening the flower and transferring pollen from a male to a female part of the flower. After pollination, the flowers turn into green vanilla pods that gradually ripen. At this point, vanilla is harvested when the pods have reached maturity. They must be carefully harvested by hand to avoid damaging the plants. The pods then undergo a ripening process, which involves slow, controlled drying, often in the sun for several weeks, followed by a conditioning process. This process allows the pods to develop their characteristic aroma and intense flavor of sweetness.

Lipstick, in its most basic form, is a mixture of oils, waxes, and pigments that can be easily used on our lips. Creating a viable formula is not an easy task, and good lipsticks require a lot of time and sometimes hundreds of variations of the recipe to be perfect. Color, opacity, fragrance, and dryness are just a few of the important properties of lipsticks.

Lipstick now comes in a variety of formulas. You can find cream finish lipsticks, matte liquid lipsticks, lip lacquers, etc. Here we will discover how a basic bullet lipstick is created, the ones we have seen our mothers and grandmothers use, a product many of us cannot leave our house without.

Ingredients are chosen pre-hand before making lipstick. The most basic ingredients in any lipstick are waxes, oils, and pigments, but many other substances can be added to the mix to improve specific aspects of the final product and add new features such as fragrance, longevity, and gloss. Preservatives (to ensure longer shelf life), alcohol, fragrance added for customer pleasure, and others are some of the most common secondary ingredients.

Most Lipstick formulations follow a basic 4 step process:

1. Pigment mixture
The pigments and the quantity of the pigment is carefully selected and carefully mixed. The pigment is then combined with oils and passed through a three-roll mill, which grinds each particle to a size of 20 microns. The typical oil-to-pigment particle ratio is 2 to 1.

2. Combination of pigment with base wax
The pigment mixture is then combined into the base wax by simply mixing the liquids in a steam-jacketed kettle with one propeller agitator. Following the mixing of the pigments with the base, the resulting liquid is passed through a three-roll mill and typically ground down to particle sizes of 20 microns.

3. Molding
Molding is done at specific temperatures to eliminate certain undesirable byproducts of rapid cooling (also known as “cold marks”). The lipstick liquid is heated to around 80 degrees Celsius and is then poured into vertical split molds kept at 35 degrees Celsius.

4. Flaming
Once the lipstick has cooled, it is extracted from the molds and prepared for flaming (passing the sticks near one or more open flame torches to melt a thin layer of gloss around the lipsticks). This procedure will ensure that the lipstick looks better and is protected from outside air and influences (lipsticks can become rancid after prolonged exposure to air).

5. Packaging
The lipstick is then packed in it’s own tubes and sealed in the packaging provided by the brand.
The last and final step is the lipstick reaching your vanity and being applied on your lips.

Tuberose (Polianthes tuberosa) is a popular scent in both bath and body products and home fragrances. It's best described as a creamy, honey-like fragrance with a soft floral note. In general, it's a soft, summery scent. Tuberose is an old-fashioned garden plant with an extremely potent fragrance. Originally from Mexico, it has been cultivated for centuries as a cut flower, as well as for the perfume industry.

Tuberose Essentials
Tuberose is related to agave plants and has thin, wispy leaves that are reminiscent of its cousins in the arid regions of the southwestern U.S. and Mexico. The stems rise three feet from the ground in late summer and unfold a series of two-inch tubular flowers one by one over the course of many weeks.
Tuberose grows from an elongated tuber which is hardy in USDA zones 8 to 10, but the tubers can be dug up and overwintered indoors in colder climates.

Growing Tuberose in the Garden
Tuberose is a good choice for a cut flower garden along with plants like lisianthus and Shasta daisies. It is suitable for perennial borders and cottage gardens, as well as in pots and planters on a patio or deck. Massing them in a large field is another option, but be prepared to be overpowered by the fragrance.

How to Grow Tuberose
Plant tuberose in full sun in a bed of rich, well-drained soil. It is a heat-loving plant, so in northern areas or cool coastal climates it is best planted against a south-facing wall for extra warmth. The tubers should be planted on their side about three inches deep and spaced eight to 10 inches apart.

Care
Overall, tuberose is pretty easy to care for, though if you garden in a colder climate (colder than zone 8) you do have an additional step if you want to save them year to year.

• Tuberoses require regular water, but it is best to let the soil dry between waterings. Irrigating once per week if there has been no rain is usually sufficient.
• Fertilize tuberose monthly during the growing season with a balanced all-purpose fertilizer, such as 10-10-10.
• Allow the foliage to remain on the plant after the flowers have faded so they can continue to photosynthesize and store energy in the roots for the following season. When the leaves turn yellow, clip the stalks at the base.
• In cold winter climates, dig up the tubers after the stalks have faded in fall, allow them to dry for a few days, and then store in a box of slightly moist sand or sawdust.
• Every few years, dig up and divide the tubers to keep them from becoming overly crowded, replanting the largest tubers at a 10-inch spacing.
• Tuberose is virtually never bothered by pests and disease.

Tuberose Varieties
Tuberose is not widely available in nurseries, but it can be found at many mail order suppliers. They're available in both single- and double-flowering varieties.

Single Tuberose
Single varieties have delicate, single-petalled blooms that have an almost star-shaped form to them.

•  'Mexican' is a common heirloom variety with single white flowers.
•   'Shringar' is a single variety with buds that are a soft pink, opening into mostly white blossoms.
•  'Yellow Baby' has lemon yellow flowers on dwarf plants just 10 inches tall.

Double Tuberose
Double tuberose varieties have blooms that look almost rose or peony-like, with their multiple petals and fuller blooms.

•  'Double Pearl' is a double white-flowered hybrid form with a touch of pink on the flower buds.
•  'Sensation' is a very pale pink double tuberose that blooms on 24 to 36-inch stems.

Tuberose Symbolism
Tuberose has come to symbolize many different things, some rather contradictory to others, as you'll see below.

• The Victorians, rather well-known for assigning symbolism to flowers, associated tuberose with voluptuousness and love.
• Because of its pure white color, tuberose can also stand for purity, peace and innocence, and for this reason it was a popular flower to add to bridal bouquets.
• And, finally (and contrasting with the previous symbolism) because of its somewhat exotic fragrance, it can also sometimes symbolize passionate or forbidden love.

As with most types of symbolism, you'll find the meaning that works for you when working with tuberose.

Tuberose Heaven
If you're a fan of fragrant flowers, tuberose will win you right over. Few plants possess such sweet, pure, and powerful fragrance -- plant a few tubers and surprise your horticultural friends with this nearly forgotten gem.

For the creation of a perfume, in addition to requiring a professional perfumer for the alchemy, combinations, and recombination of ideas, the use of raw materials is essential for crafting a fragrance. From the most classical to the contemporary, we find the ingredients that make up this entire process in nature, sometimes through the secondary involvement of certain animals (although these are rarely used today). These animals initially process natural elements that will subsequently become a future ingredient in perfumery, much like the case of coffee harvested from the feces of Kopi Luwak, who 'process' the beans through their own intestines. Most of the substances of animal origin or those involving wild animals in their production have now been replaced by synthetic ingredients, which effectively meet the same needs, safely replacing any contact and/or manipulation of animals that would cause them suffering or harm. In this regard, I invite you to read a brief exploration of classic perfume ingredients, which are typical and widely used in the fragrances we have in our collections and in our closets, based on our observations and the knowledge we've gained over time. The inspiration for this article came from in-depth studies with perfumers Justine Crane and Ane Walsh and their natural perfumery materials.

We can consider rose oil as one of the most coveted materials for a perfumer since ancient times, among those fragrances that have become classics. There is a wide variety of rose oils, but the types most frequently used in antique perfumery were the centifolia rose, which later gave way to the cabbage rose, the May rose, the Indian rose, and the Moroccan rose, all of which were identified by their pink petals. Additionally, there is the Damask rose, which later became the Bulgarian rose and the Turkish rose, recognized by their reddish-toned petals. Other beautiful roses that are also used in natural perfumery today, in addition to those mentioned earlier, include the tea rose, the Chinese rugosa rose, and the Bourbon rose (which is a variety of the centifolia). To acquire rose oils, they can be obtained as either hydrodistilled essential oil (otto) or in concrete and absolute forms through solvent extraction. For a long time, rose oil and rose floral waters were used in the medical field for a variety of issues, including digestive disorders, menstrual problems, fevers, and skin conditions. Rose oils are very rare and valuable, and they can add delight and richness to a fragrance that cannot be achieved in any other way or with any other perfumery material. Over time, it was discovered that rose oil (otto, not the solvent-extracted absolute) creates aldehyde molecules in a perfume composition, another ingredient known to have an immediate enhancing effect, expanding the aroma.

​Aroma Characteristic: fragrant, aldehydic, floral, sweet

Honorable Mention: Chloe Eau de Parfum Chloé
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In ancient times, jasmine oils were obtained through enfleurage, where delicate flowers were placed one by one on screens or glass plates and covered with a quantity of purified fat. The resulting pomade, created through this meticulous process, was then washed with alcohol to obtain the alcoholic extract. Almost all perfumers in antiquity used generous amounts of jasmine in their natural compositions. Nowadays, jasmine is extracted using solvents. Currently, jasmine is one of the most highly valued oils among all natural ingredients, with about 30ml of jasmine grandiflorum oil (a daytime-scented plant) the darkest and most delightful and intense of the two main jasmine oils, costing around $250 or more, while sambac jasmine (scent-releasing at night) is a bit more expensive, often found at a price of $245 for every 30ml. It's worth noting that approximately 80% of modern perfumes contain jasmine in their fragrance structures. However, since 2015, when jasmine extracts were added to the IFRA/EU restrictions list, jasmine has been included less and less in perfume reformulations and other products.

Aroma Characteristic: floral, musky, sweet, intense and striking aroma

Honorable Mention: My Way Giorgio Armani

Lavender is a raw material that has been used copiously since ancient times because it is an easily cultivated natural ingredient, and its aroma can be readily extracted through steam distillation and oil maceration. In medieval times, the hallways and floors of houses were often strewn with the abundant use of lavender and other aromatic herbs (also known as strewing herbs), such as rosemary and balms, as well. There are many lavender varieties found in nature, ranging from the wilder, more rugged types to the herbaceous, bitter ones, as well as milder and more floral varieties. Lavenders were primarily used in aromatic-fougère type perfumes, mixed with mosses and sometimes with coumarin (tonka bean) to impart a fresh fern-like quality to the fragrance. Lavender is almost ubiquitous in fragrances targeting a male audience.

Aroma Characteristic: floral, fragrant, astringent and refreshing

Honorable Mention: Mon Guerlain Guerlain
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​Known as frankincense, luban, olibanum, incense and boswellia, it is one of the oldest — perhaps the most ancient — recorded perfume ingredients known to man. Olibanum has been used throughout history to perfume spaces and rooms; as a fumigator against minor pests, insects, and diseases; to disinfect unpleasant odors; and most importantly, to burn in honor of the gods. The raw material was used in the embalming of Egyptian pharaohs, burned during fixed rituals such as funerals, and is a scent commonly detected as soon as one enters a Catholic church today, be it Orthodox or not. It was also widely used (and still is) as an ingredient in ointments and cosmetics for skin enhancement and to maintain a youthful appearance. Olibanum was also used as a significant remedy, with the property of reducing bleeding from serious wounds, aiding in healing, and widely employed as a topical antiseptic. It grows in arid regions, such as the deserts of Arabia and Africa, and was one of the main raw materials transported by caravans on the Silk and Spice Routes, on the Incense Route, in Yemen, and in Arabia Felix, according to the book Caravans of the Moon: In Search of the Queen of Sheba (2007) by Fernanda de Camargo-Moro. Olibanum belongs to the Burseraceae family and grows as a tree with twisted and wind-bent branches that can live for hundreds of years. Its resin is collected by making incisions in the tree's bark and allowing the resin, which comes from the sap, to flow and solidify. Olibanum has a bitter, citrusy, warm aroma with a very clean and translucent dry down. Its aromatic structure offers a variety of different fragrance levels, and thanks to its versatility, it can be used in any part of the perfume — in the top notes, heart notes, and even base notes — serving as a bridge, modifier, and even a fixative.

Aroma Characteristic: warm and balsamic, with a citrusy and perfumed touch

Honorable Mention: Incense & Cedrat Jo Malone London
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Myrrh, since ancient times, has been extensively used for skincare, in the preparation of ointments, creams, and other cosmetics due to its healing and anti-aging properties. Similar to frankincense, myrrh is also highly sought after, but its cost has always been approximately three times that of frankincense. In medieval times, a gift involving myrrh was as good as — or even more precious than — gold. Just like frankincense, myrrh has always found many uses, including embalming, fumigation, specific medicinal applications, and in perfumery, as we can well presume. The raw material grows in regions that also mirror the aridity where frankincense thrives, spreading across the dry regions of Arabia and harvested in the same way as its cousin frankincense: by cutting the bark and waiting for the formation of dense tears. The aroma of myrrh is warm, balsamic, and almost rubbery, with a lot of tenacity from start to finish. Ovid even wrote the legend of myrrh in his book Metamorphoses (8 AD). According to the legend, Myrrh was a young princess, the daughter of King Cinyras from the region of Cyprus, who fell deeply in love with her own father. As her sin against humanity, she was transformed into a tree, and her tears, the color of blood, flowed from her twisted branches. Myrrh had a son and named him Adonis, who was conceived inside the tree. Adonis was loved by Aphrodite.

​Aroma Characteristic: warm, balsamic, earthy

Honorable Mention: 1 Million Privé Paco Rabanne
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A sweet raw material, similar to honey and creamy and delightful, with nuances reminiscent of orange blossom and jasmine, tuberose is another ancient and significant flower in the world of perfumery, used in rich, classic perfumes. It is exclusively obtained through the enfleurage process. Tuberose has been used since Victorian times as a flower designated for funerals and in tropical islands as a necklace or garland for wedding celebrations and the like. Nowadays, modern solvent extraction techniques are used to obtain tuberose absolute. It is a native flower of Mexico and Central American countries but was brought to Europe in the late 1500s by Spanish and Portuguese explorers. Today, with much greater intensity, the luxurious tuberose is a flower cultivated for the perfume industry from France to China, India, Egypt, and even Morocco.

Aroma Characteristic: sweet, narcotic, intense, creamy, indolic
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Honorable Mention: L'Interdit Eau de Parfum Intense Givenchy

Neroli oil is obtained through steam distillation of the flowers of the bitter orange tree. It differs significantly from bitter orange flower absolute/concrete in both the extraction method (formerly, bitter orange flower absolute was obtained through the enfleurage/alcohol wash process, but nowadays, it's extracted using solvents) and its aromatic profile. Neroli has a cleaner, cooler, translucent character, with less of the flower and more of the orange itself. It's a more floral version of petitgrain, while bitter orange flower absolute/concrete has the aroma of a fully blooming orange orchard — narcotic, vibrant, dense, and deeply overwhelming, more like a white floral reminiscent of gardenia, jasmine, and tuberose. Neroli received its name due to Anne-Marie de la Tremouille de Noirmontier, Princess of Nerola, who, according to history, adored the scent of distilled orange flower blossoms. Its historical contribution to perfumery is significant, heralding and marking the era of colognes, as it is used in popular fragrances. Neroli has a light, soft, floral, petitgrain-like aroma, and its essence also manages to display some tenacity.

Aroma Characteristic: fresh, citrusy, airy and floral

Honorable Mention: Versace Pour Homme Versace

Citrus essential oils have been widely used throughout the history of perfumery. The oils of orange, lemon, lime, mandarin, bergamot, and grapefruit are necessary and virtually indispensable ingredients in the construction of any perfume. A traditional cologne is incomplete without citrus components, and many historical perfumes feature bergamot as a top note, which pairs well with almost all other listed notes and boasts its distinctive floral quality, unlike other citrus oils. Citrus oils are typically pressed, although some can also be distilled. Regarding petitgrain, it is a distilled oil derived from the leaves and branches (and sometimes including the flowers and small fruits) of the bitter orange tree. It is commonly used to modify neroli oil since many varieties contain fewer terpenes (which are the characteristic molecules responsible for the citrus aroma). Petitgrain oil is milder and somewhat floral, with green and citrusy notes in its nuances. Nowadays, petitgrain oils are derived from various trees within the citrus family, including lemon, grapefruit, mandarin, lime, Kaffir lime (combava), and other orange varieties.

Aroma Characteristic: herbal, fresh, floral and fragrant
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Honorable Mention:  Eau Sauvage Cologne Dior

These three perfume materials derived from animals were highly sought after and expensive, used by perfumers for their noticeable ability to overwhelmingly enhance the longevity of their compositions. It has been written that in the past, both musk and civet were used in compositions to such an extent that they became all one could detect when smelling a perfume. In Shakespeare's play As You Like It, the character Touchstone says, "Civet is a ground more for the flatterer than the flattered."
Musk and civet have a very strong and animalic aroma, like dirty fur and skin, with notes of indole and skatole (especially in civet). Ambergris, on the other hand, is more subtle, as it doesn't have such an overtly unpleasant or unbearable smell on its own, just a faint nuance of bad breath. It has a quality of rounding and warming a final formulation and enhances a fragrance when used in the right measure. All three animal-derived ingredients in perfumery have "technically" illegal sales, as well as their primary use, in the United States and most other countries. Nevertheless, their sales and demand continue to grow because novice and unscrupulous perfumers still seek them out.
Castoreum from the beaver was also used, as well as muskrat musk, but to a much lesser degree than the other animal essences. Some perfumers use cruelty-free animal-derived substances, such as hyraceum (African stone) from fossilized hyrax excrement; tinctures and extractions from domesticated farm animals, like goat hair, horse hooves, or horse mane tinctures; and the ambergris found on beaches. In some cases, molecules extracted from cheeses are used to give the perfume a certain animalic scent.

Aroma Characteristic: indolic, fecal, sweet, earthy
​
Honorable Mention:  Tuxedo Yves Saint Laurent

Orris root, derived from the rhizomes of the Iris Pallida plant, is the source of a rich aroma with sweet, floral and tenacious notes, often serving as a fixative in orris/iris extracts. The iris rhizomes must mature for a period of 3 to 5 years before their aroma can be definitively extracted, historically through maceration in oil or alcohol. Today, orris is extracted using volatile solvents or CO2 to create orris oils or orris butter. Orris possesses a very delicate and sought-after aroma, ideal for blending with violets. When combined with violet leaf absolute, boronia, and other selected florals, it can come very close to replicating the scent of violet flowers, which can be the theme or accord of a perfume. Orris also functions as an excellent fixative. Historically, orris was used in talcum powder to form the final aroma and give body, and the entire rhizome was formerly used as a teething toy for babies!

Aroma Characteristic: creamy, floral, woody, sharp
​
Honorable Mention: Bvlgari Man Terrae Essence Bvlgari

Primarily used as a fixative, benzoin has a resinous and sweet essence, similar to vanilla, which has been highly valued by perfumers. It has been important for ancient perfumed rituals for thousands of years, much like frankincense and myrrh. Benzoin has been used in all segments of perfumery, from its early days as incense to later when everything that could be imagined was perfumed, from gloves, belts, hats, all attire, to papers and fine ornaments. Benzoin also serves as an excellent fixative in small quantities, helping to extend the time the perfume lingers on the skin without turning the composition into an unpleasant scent. Instead, it adds a delightful and addictive quality to the fragrance as it endures. Some forms of benzoin can be sensitizing.

Aroma Characteristic: balsamic, sweet, reminiscent of honey and vanilla
​
Honorable Mention: Hero Eau de Parfum Burberry

Right as the search for your new go-to fall scent gets underway, Louis Vuitton welcomes its latest addition to its cult-favorite Les Extraits Collection, titled Myriad, which launches today. Unlike most fragrances that are defined by a single, identifiable note, Myriad is filled with infinite nuances, resulting in a scent with a blend quite literally like no other.
​
The hero ingredient that informs the fragrance is aud, a wood that is known as "black gold." It has a complex smell and unique cultural history that provides perfumers with a never-ending well of inspiration. While aud is woody and spicy, it's balanced out with other notes for a unique blend: a bespoke rose blend, saffron, cocoa, ambrette, white musk, and a touch of moss.
​

In other words, this fragrance is the epitome of multi-faceted, best described in oxymorons such as "intense lightness" and "luminous depth." When Louis Vuitton's Master Perfumer Jacques Cavallier Belletrud and renowned architect Frank Gehry came together in 2021 to begin the Les Extraits Collection, they found commonality in wanting to create a fragrance that has a fluent dialogue between perfume and architecture.

​This continues on with the Myriad perfume as it's not only brought to life by its sensorial scent but also a sculptural masterpiece of a bottle.
Another crucial point of unity for Cavallier Belletrud and Gehry was turning to inspiration for nature.

“She is our guide,” Cavallier Belletrud expresses in a statement. “Frank and I both love the wind that gusts through the world around us. We love movement and fluidity, two notions that are at the heart of the Les Extraits Collection.”

Gehry taps into this not only through biomimicry in art but also by developing sustainable architecture. Meanwhile, Cavallier Belletrud has nature inform both his materials and "the ideal of
harmony that underpins all his creations."

A contemporary scent for classic lovers, Louis Vuitton's new Myriad fragrance defies how we see perfume and is one that is in a category of its own within the modern perfumery sphere.

Marc Puig, CEO of Puig, has suggested that a potential initial public offering (IPO) of the company could mitigate "challenges" in future generational transitions, which he anticipates will occur within the next decade.

Puig explained that during generational shifts, issues such as difficulties in assuming leadership roles or a waning of enthusiasm can arise, and opening up the company's ownership to external investors could help mitigate these problems.

In separate interviews with the "Financial Times" and "La Vanguardia", reported by Europa Press, the executive cautioned that family-owned companies can sometimes gradually lose their market position, "slowly fading into obscurity, with nobody within the company noticing." In contrast, being accountable to external investors can significantly impact a company's trajectory. 

Nonetheless, he affirmed that an IPO is just one of several options being considered by the company, and no decision has been reached thus far. Furthermore, he underlined that the Puig family would continue to retain the majority of the company's ownership.

"One option could be to open up the company's capital, and doing so could encompass private equity investors, long-term shareholders, or even entry into the public stock market," he noted, emphasizing that maintaining the current situation is also an option.

A forward-looking perspective
Looking to the long term, Puig explained that "leading companies in the luxury and premium beauty world are typically family-controlled," citing examples like LVMH and L'Oréal, both of which are publicly traded.

He emphasized that luxury brands require a patient, long-term vision, a quality he believes family-run firms offer, while public markets tend to focus on short-term gains, representing a fine equilibrium.

In addition, Puig identified attracting, retaining, and inspiring talent, creativity, and innovation as the company's "main challenge". He stressed that Puig competes with companies that are world leaders in their respective domains.

Debt 

In terms of financial leverage, the company has increased its indebtedness in recent years due to its inorganic growth strategy. However, Puig clarified that this doesn't affect their ability to pursue further acquisitions, and the entry of external investors is not a prerequisite for further expansion.

He further stated that their financial strategy remains prudent, indicating that they have "less flexibility today compared to a year or two ago," though they continue to explore opportunities within the market.

"In our industry, when you have strong, healthy brands like we do, you have a high Ebitda margin, a lot of cash and relatively small capital expenditure," he said.

At the end of 2022, the group's debt was 1.6 times the company's EBITDA, which amounted to 638 million euros. The company's outlook for this year is to surpass 4 billion euros in revenue, following its 2022 revenue figure of 3.62 billion euros, marking a 40% increase from the previous year.

Puig's brand portfolio includes renowned names such as Carolina Herrera, Rabanne, Jean Paul Gaultier, Dries Van Noten, Nina Ricci, Byredo, Penhaligon's, L'Artisan Parfumeur, Kama Ayurveda, Loto del Sur, Charlotte Tilbury, Uriage, Apivita, in addition to licenses for brands like Comme des Garçons Parfums, Christian Louboutin, Benetton, Banderas perfumes, and Adolfo Dominguez, among others.

We’ve all heard the phrase, “get your beauty sleep,” but why do they call it that? And, does the amount of sleep you get really affect your skin? The short answer is, yes. Lack of sleep can affect your entire body, including, your skin. But exactly how does sleep affect your skin? Well, in several ways.

Why is it called “beauty sleep?”
It’s called “beauty sleep” because sleep helps your skin heal from the day and any skin damage that may have occurred. When you sleep, your skin gets a chance to restore and improve itself back to a healthier state. Let’s find out more..

How does sleep affect your skin?
There are many ways that sleep, and lack thereof, can affect your skin. Here are 6 main ways that lack of sleep affects your skin.

Premature wrinkling and sagging of the skin
If you are consistently lacking in the beauty sleep department, you could end up with premature wrinkling and/or sagging of the skin. This is due to the cortisol that is released when your body is lacking an appropriate amount of sleep. Cortisol can break down collagen, which is the protein that helps to keep your skin smooth.

Lack of collagen production
Collagen is also produced while you are sleeping. So, if you’re skimping on beauty sleep, your body is not producing the collagen needed to keep your skin looking young but is also creating a chemical that breaks down what collagen is in your body.

Duller and dryer skin
Lack of sleep can also cause extra dryness in your skin, which can make wrinkles appear deeper and can cause your complexion to look more dull. Additionally, our bodies increase the amount of blood flow to the skin while we sleep. So, if you’re not getting enough sleep, your skin complexion may look dull and ashen.

Lower HGH production
Your body also produces human growth hormone (HGH) that helps to repair tissue damage while you sleep. If you’re missing out on your beauty sleep, your body is not producing enough of this hormone to repair damaged tissue.

Interruption of your nighttime beauty routine
Not getting enough sleep can also hinder the results of your nighttime skincare products. If your body is not getting enough sleep, it focuses the small amount of beauty sleep you are getting to repair other parts of the body. With enough sleep, blood flow is more consistent throughout your body, helping to better absorb your anti-aging skincare.

Dark circles and bags under your eyes
Two of the most common and widely known side effects of little sleep are the dreaded dark circles and bags under your eyes. While you may be able to quickly cover up these features with makeup, the best way to handle them is to get enough sleep. It may also help to use an extra pillow at night, elevating your head just a bit, to reduce swelling around the eyes and in the face.

Now you know what lack of sleep may do to your skin. However, you may still be wondering what’s considered enough beauty sleep.

How many hours is beauty sleep?
Seven to nine quality hours of sleep per night is ideal for “beauty sleep.” If you regularly get less than six hours of sleep, you may start to see some side effects on your skin. The good news is that increasing your beauty sleep by one to three hours per night can decrease the side effects within 24 hours. Plus, getting an extra one to three hours of sleep for a few weeks can drastically affect your skin’s appearance.


Tips for getting a good night of sleep
Here are some tips we recommend if you’re in need of a good night of beauty sleep:

• Try to stick to a sleep schedule as closely as possible. Being consistent helps your body regulate its wake-sleep cycle.
• Pay attention to what you eat and drink. Not only may these things affect your skin, but they can also affect your ability to fall and stay asleep.
• Limiting your naps is also important for regulating your sleep cycle.
• If you’re feeling restless when you try to fall asleep, add some exercise into your daily routine.
• Lastly, manage your worries. If you find yourself trying to fall asleep and can’t stop your thoughts from taking over, write them down on a notepad you keep beside your bed and come back to them the next morning.

While getting a full night of beauty sleep is one of the best things you can do for your skin, sometimes other skin issues appear that may be unrelated. 

The secret to a great night’s sleep could be on your plate. If you’re on the quest for better rest, you may have already tried shutting down devices early, meditation, a warm bath, or a multitude of potentially sleep-inducing activities. However, there is one fairly simple, yet crucial component to sleep: the food you choose on a daily basis. Yes, that’s right. Look no further than your kitchen for evidence-based, sleep-boosting tools.

“Sleep is an active time for your body to recover, recharge, and repair,” says Dawn Jackson Blatner, registered dietitian and author of The Flexitarian Diet. “If you are having trouble sleeping, it’s a clue your lifestyle may need adjusting. Improving your sleep quality takes a holistic approach.” This holistic approach includes lifestyle factors such as exercise, stress, and of course, your nutrition.

You may have an optimal pre-bedtime routine, but overlook the fact that diet is a key component of sleep health. Learn more about which foods to choose for better sleep and creative ways to eat them.

What Foods Help You Sleep Better?
Truth be told, there is not one ‘perfect’ food—or even multiple best foods—for better sleep. However, there are certain foods that contain specific nutrients proven to be effective in promoting better sleep. In fact, there is a plethora of research on the effect of specific diets and foods on sleep, however, translating this data into individual recommendations is challenging, as each body (including metabolism and digestion) is so unique. That said, if you eat some of the following foods, you’ll be able to reap the research-backed sleep benefits of nutrients, including melatonin, vitamin D, tryptophan, and more.

Tart Cherries
Often found in dried or juice form, tart cherries are a go-to for post-workout recovery. In addition to helping your muscles recuperate, the sweet and sour fruit can also help to promote optimal sleep. “Tart cherries are a natural source of melatonin, a hormone that regulates the body’s internal clock & sleep-wake cycle,” says Jackson-Blatner, R.D. “Tart cherry concentrate is the supercharged version of tart cherry juice. Each 2-tablespoon serving of concentrate has the juice of over 60 cherries.”

“Melatonin is a hormone produced by the pineal gland to help regulate your sleep cycle. Certain foods can impact the production of melatonin such as the following: cheese, chamomile tea, cherries, kiwi, dark leafy greens, and nuts,” says Bonnie Taub-Dix, R.D., creator of BetterThanDieting.com and author of Read it Before You Eat It - Taking You from Label to Table.

Other melatonin-rich options: eggs, nuts, fish

Pumpkin Seeds
Magnesium is a natural relaxant that can help to calm and prepare the body for rest. “Pumpkin seeds are an excellent source of magnesium,” states Jackson-Blatner, R.D. “One study in the Journal of Research in Medical Sciences found that magnesium improved insomnia and sleep efficiency.” In this study, supplemental magnesium increased total sleep time and reduced the instances of early morning wake-ups.

Magnesium-rich foods may offer the same sleep-inducing benefits as supplements. Jackson-Blatner recommends adding pumpkin seeds to salads in place of croutons or to soups as a satisfying garnish and crunch.

Other magnesium-rich options: hemp seeds, almonds, spinach

Dairy Milk
Yes, it’s true that a glass of warm milk may help you sleep better. The combination of calcium, tryptophan, vitamin D, and magnesium may be the perfect concoction to send you into dreamland. “New research suggests that the casein protein in cow’s milk interacts with trypsin, a digestive enzyme in the stomach, to produce a sleep-enhancing peptide complex called CTH (casein tryptic hydrolysate),” explains Jackson-Blatner, R.D. “Plus the added vitamin D in milk may also play a role in maintaining healthful sleep.”

While casein protein may have a direct effect on sleep, protein in general helps to promote satiety, ensuring that you won’t wake up hungry. Aim to include a source of protein in each of your meals and snacks.

Other protein-rich options: eggs, lentils, almonds

If you need individualized meal ideas or support, consider consulting a physician or registered dietitian to get a personalized recommendation.

We all have our own unique ways of applying bronzer. Over the years, everyone has picked up little tips and tricks from here, there, and everywhere that make our application work just that little bit better for us. Heck, sometimes it can all be about trial and error and what was initially a mistake can actually lead to a total makeup technique breakthrough you end up doing on purpose for years to come.

Think about it. When exactly do you apply your bronzer? Is it after your foundation but before your blush? Is it before or after your concealer? Do your powder your face afterwards? Or is it different every time? Well, it turns out makeup artists have the answer. Next time you're going for a more bronzed look, try putting your bronzer as the last step in your routine — yup, after you've already got foundation, concealer, and blush on your face. Celebrity makeup artist Tobi Henney shared with Byrdie that this is the best way to apply bronzer for long-wear, and even suggested putting it on after setting powder. 

Applying your bronzer last could help keep muddy makeup at bay
So, why is it such a good idea to put your bronzer on last? Having everything else already done means your bronzing product, be it a powder, cream, or liquid, will be less likely to stick to your foundation. When you apply bronzer underneath other products, like highlighter, concealer, or setting powder, it can appear patchy. This can cause you to put on unnecessary amounts of extra product. Even worse, anything you apply on top of your bronzer can actually end up spreading the product further than you might like, which is how your face can end up looking muddy rather than snatched.

Instead, it's best to apply bronzer as the final step to ensure everything stays put. Plus, once you've applied everything else to your face, you'll be able to get a clear picture of which parts actually need a little extra color. In some cases, your blush could be doing a pretty good job at giving you a healthy look on its own, meaning you don't have to go so heavy with the bronzer.

Equally, making bronzer your last port of call will stop it from smudging and allow its true color to shine through without anything over the top that could alter the shade. Applying it last also means there won't be anything like eyeshadow fallout or baking powder to dust off, nor will you have to keep adding more because it's been disturbed by other products. That's particularly handy because a light hand is always recommended for a naturally bronzed look, as going too heavy can leave you looking orange.

But remember applying bronzer isn't the same as contouring
Now that we've established when to apply bronzer, you may be wondering: what about contour? There's one crucial thing to keep in mind here: Don't confuse bronzing with contouring. Sure, you can definitely use your bronzing products to contour, but the purpose of contouring is to carve out the face and create shadows. Contouring defines specific parts of the face, such as the bridge of the nose, and pushes back other parts (such as the hollows of the cheeks or the sides of the forehead). Since the application is so precise, you would contour before you apply bronzer. As for bronzing the face, however, the main goal there is to give your skin a healthy all-over glow, which means you'll apply it to slightly more broad areas.

Although the ideal bronzer placement may vary slightly from person to person, there are a few points on the face that look great on almost everybody: along the hairline on your forehead, across the bridge of your nose, and, lastly, on your cheeks. A good rule of thumb is to think of anywhere you might naturally catch the sun. To get that stunning sun-kissed glow, celebrity makeup artist and ambassador for Catrice Cosmetics, Emily Gray, recommended to CNN Underscored to apply powder bronzer gently with a brush, then taking a few paces back and checking out your handy work in natural light. This will show whether you need more or have missed an area.

For many people, a full face of makeup isn't complete without the warming glow of bronzer. Not to be confused with contour, bronzer isn't intended to sculpt your features but is a makeup product meant to give the skin a sun-kissed look. Typically, it's placed where the sun would naturally fall on your face, so the cheeks, nose, temples, and chin.

Because this cosmetic is supposed to mimic a naturally occurring look, picking the right shade is vital to creating a believably sun-kissed appearance. Much like foundation matching or choosing a perfect nude nail design, there are lots of factors to take into account when searching for the right bronzer for you.

Skin tone is a pretty important detail to consider, but many makeup artists also recommend thinking about your skin's undertones when it comes to selecting complementary cosmetics. For bronzer, we have just the tips you need to make sure your skin is getting that radiant, summery look.

Understand undertones
The first step to picking a bronzer that works for you is understanding what exactly undertones are and how they can affect your cosmetic choices. Undertones are not to be confused with your skin tone, as Tiffany Torrence, makeup artist and founder of the Skin and Body Klinic, tells ESSENCE Magazine, "Skin tone can change over time for a variety of reasons, but undertones remain constant (yes, even when you tan)."

Essentially, while skin tone is a product of the skin's melanin production and can range anywhere from pale ivory to dark chocolate, undertones are the coloring just beneath the surface of the skin. Typically, a person can be categorized as having warm, neutral, or cool undertones, a characteristic independent of their skin color.

When it comes to makeup, you have the freedom to make whatever color choices you desire. Still, knowing your undertones is helpful if you're going for a more subtle look or are trying to decide on shades that will complement your natural coloring. In this way, knowing this detail about yourself will make picking a natural-looking bronzer much easier.

Identify your undertone
Now that you know what undertones are, you can move on to identifying your personal coloring. To do so, makeup artists and experts have several tips and tricks they recommend trying out. First, take a look at the veins in your wrist in natural sunlight. If you detect a more greenish hue, then it's likely you have warm undertones, whereas a blue or purple coloring indicates a cool undertone. If you see a mixture of both, then you're likely neutral.

The white paper test is another method for determining your skin's undertone. For this, take a plain white sheet of paper, or a pure white clothing item, and hold it up next to your face in the mirror. If you see more yellow and gold tones in your skin, then you have warm undertones. Pink or red coloring translates to a cool undertone while a combination of both makes you neutral.

Lastly, when determining undertones to help you select a bronzer, experts also recommend considering how you tan. Katie Levy, Pro Makeup Artist at Trinny London, explains, "When you look at a bronzer, you should think about how you tan naturally ... Do you go a golden color? Or maybe a reddish bronze?" Those with a more golden tan likely have warm undertones, while a reddish bronze indicates a cool-tone coloring.

Choose a bronzer that shares undertones with your skin
Once you've identified your undertones, you can begin making an informed choice about the bronzer that would work best for you. The first step is to make sure the shade of the bronzer works with your skin color, as going too dark can give your makeup a muddy look. As Priscilla Ono, Fenty Beauty Global Makeup Artist, shares with Marie Claire, "Generally speaking, your bronzer color should be one to two shades darker than your surface tone (or skin tone)."

Next, you can look at the undertones of the bronzer, going for one that has the same coloring as your skin. For those that lean warmer, this means  yellow-toned or gold hues would work well for you. If you have cooler undertones, opt for a bronzer with pink or soft-brown finishes. Those with neutral undertones typically have a combination of cool and warm tones in their skin, which means they can pull off bronzers from either end of the spectrum, but true-browns are always a good bet.

Make the wrong shade of bronzer work
These are great tips for your next makeup shopping trip, but they're not very helpful if you've already bought the wrong shade of bronzer. Luckily, there are some ways to modify a bronzer that isn't the exact right color for your undertones.

For example, if your bronzer is too orange, then the TikTok from @roseandben demonstrates the perfect hack for you. You can modify the coloring of a bronzer that is too orange by blending it out with a true red blush, combating the warm tones that appear orange on your skin with the cool tones of the blush. For a bronzer that is a little too dark for your skin tone, NYC makeup artist Mary Irwin recommends altering your application technique, telling Makeup by L'Oréal, "If you use a big fluffy brush, it will pick up less pigment than a smaller, denser brush... try applying it more gently for a lighter finish."

Other than that, you can always repurpose a bronzer that doesn't work for you, using it as an eyeshadow or even a contour if the color and finish are suitable.

There was a time when sheet masks were reserved for so called “special occasions,” or for use after an exclusive evening bath. Now face masks have become more of a standard practice in the world of skincare. You can choose from an array of masks. Their function is to increase the penetration of active chemicals into the skin. Some of them are sheet masks, cream face masks, clay masks, fluid masks, exfoliating face masks, charcoal masks, and sleep masks. Sheet masks offer benefits that aren’t seen in other forms of face masks. Here is everything you need to know about sheet masks and why you should add one to your routine right away.


What Is A Sheet Mask?
Sheet masks are pre-cut pieces of thin fabric (often made of rayon, cotton, gel, or foil) that have been soaked in an active chemical and then packaged for use. The mask is applied by positioning the cutouts over the eyes and mouth before smoothing it over the rest of the face. Wearing them for longer than 10 to 20 minutes, however, may cause the skin to become dry and irritated. The mask will start striving to reclaim the moisture it generously gave to your skin as soon as it dries up. Water is the base component in any sheet mask, but other moisturizing and/or active substances are often added to help deliver the mask’s promised benefits to the skin.


Sheet masks provide several time-saving, skin-improving, and mind-calming effects in addition to the evident zen moment they generate.


1. They Are A Great Source Of Hydration
When applied to the face, a sheet mask seals in the moisture by conforming to the shape of your face, limiting the evaporation of the mask’s moisturizing contents. Phospholipids are the primary moisturizing components since they restore the skin’s moisture barrier and shield it from external aggressors that might dry it out. The mask’s active components, such as Vitamin C Ester & copper tripeptide, are better absorbed by the skin, thanks to their presence.


2. They Give Instant And Permanent Effects
When you remove a sheet mask, your skin will look and feel refreshed and revitalized because it has absorbed so much of the ingredient. The masks have a high concentration of citrus ester, a more powerful, stable, and absorbable form of vitamin C. This mask’s Vitamin C Ester not only lightens dark spots and fine wrinkles but also fades discoloration. Copper tripeptide, a naturally occurring combination of three amino acids, helps the skin seem more toned and smooth, thanks to its inclusion in the mask.


3. They Are Very Convenient
You can put one in your carry-on to use throughout the journey to keep your skin from drying out. Enjoy some self-care while working remotely (with the Zoom camera switched off, of course!). The sheet mask’s two-piece design and form-fitting design make it a breeze to put on and keep in place. Because of this, you may undertake nearly any activity while wearing it without fearing that it will come off in the process. Before you open the sachet, give the outside a light massage to help the formula spread out over the mask. Take the mask out of the packet and unfold it by separating the top half from the bottom half. After washing your face and removing any makeup, apply each mask and let it sit for 20 minutes. After removing the mask, if there is any formula left, massage it into the skin for an added glow. There’s no need to wash it or tidy it up.


4. There’s No Need To Touch Your Skin While Applying The Mask
Touching your face frequently might transmit bacteria from your hands. Avoid touching your face as much as possible. Keeping your skincare regimen as neat as possible is a top priority, which is why sheet masks are packaged in single-use packets to prevent the spread of bacteria.


5. They Are Very Relaxing
Last but not least, using a sheet mask is a luxurious way to treat yourself. The soft, 100% cotton fabric is a treat to the touch, and the healing chemicals are instantly absorbed into your skin. Sheet masks have the added benefit of allowing your skin to relax as it soaks up the beneficial substances. Put on a mask and relax with a nice book, some meditation, making supper, or your favorite podcast as you take care of yourself.


How Often Should You Use A Face Mask?
Sheet masks are extremely versatile because of their small size, portability, and simple application. Most sheet mask sets include six individual packets to be applied over six consecutive days to dramatically enhance skin’s moisture, texture, and tone.


After cleaning, the sheet mask should be the first step in your skincare routine. You may forgo using serum, moisturizer, & eye cream after using a sheet mask because the mask already has all the beneficial ingredients your skin needs. The mask can be used whenever you like on freshly cleansed skin. Put one on if your skin seems dry and dull, and you’ll be amazed at the difference it makes. So, what is your secret to beautiful skin? Let us know in the comments section.

Shopping for a signature fragrance can be a daunting task. Not only do you have to pick a scent, but you also have to decide which form you'd like it in. Cologne, parfum, eau de toilette, oh my!

It can be confusing—and that is why we're so thankful for Lifehacker's handy fragrance concentration guide.

To start, you'll need to wrap your head around the difference between "perfume" and "cologne." Gender is not a specifying factor for these products' intended use. Instead, it relates to the concentration of perfume oil in alcohol and water. Names like toilette and cologne indicate the strength and longevity of the scent. Here is a more detailed description of each fragrance descriptor to help make your new scent shopping experience easier:

Eau Fraiche
The most diluted version—containing 1 to 3 percent perfume oil—these fragrances usually last for less than an hour.

Eau de Cologne (Cologne)
In North America, these are often masculine scents. But don't let their association with men fool you: they are light, fresh, and fruity. Typically these scents contain between 2 and 4 percent perfume oils and last about two hours.

Eau de Toilette (Toilette)
Here lies the middle of the fragrance road. Eau de toilettes have a relatively light spray composition—5 to 15 percent—of pure perfume essence dissolved in alcohol. Expect these to last for about three hours.

Eau de Parfum (Parfum)
These concentrations are historically genderless and are second only to their cousin perfume in strength. Eau de Parfum—Hermès 24 Faubourg, to be exact contain between 15 and 20 percent pure perfume essence and can last up to eight hours.

Perfume
Lifehacker points out that these are the most concentrated and expensive fragrance options. Slightly oilier than its lighter relatives, perfume comprises 20 to 30 percent pure perfume. A single application of perfume can last up to 24 hours. Maybe go a little easy on the application of these fragrances.

Scents
Perfumes and colognes are a collection of scents. Specifically, these fragrances are a compound of ingredients. The primary components distinguish the various scent categories, which are more subjective as everyone's memories, feelings, and interest in a particular scent vary. Here are some of the most common scents used in fragrances:

Aquatic
Aquatic smells evoke beachside scents like sea salt and ocean breezes. This scent is often associated with summertime, marine life, coastal destinations, or immersive shore and sand memories.

Floral
Flower petals and other botanical oils emit floral scents, often used in fragrances or perfumes. Common flowers used for these types of scents include rose, jasmine, gardenia, lavender, violet, and lily of the valley.

Fruity
Fruity scents can radiate exotic, calming, or sweet fragrances. Soaps and lotions use fruit scents, such as lemon or citrus, for their fresh and therapeutic associations. Other fruits, such as coconut or kiwi, have a more tropical distinction.

Sweet and Spicy
Sweet scents combine oils from vanilla, chocolate, burnt sugar, coffee, and caramel for a gourmand fragrance. This indulgent fragrance represents many of the foods it is derived from and can be polarizing based on your preferences. Spicy scents can also originate from popular food sources, such as cardamom, mint, clove, cinnamon, ginger, and pepper. Spicy aromas are typically long-lasting and highly fragrant.

Woody
Bottle the scents of trees, nature trails, and outdoor adventures for a woody smell. Woody scents use trees, roots, moss, leaves, and grasses to exact oils for these fragrances. Popular sources include cedar, amber, sandalwood, balsam, and other wood.

The difference is the concentration (and lasting power)
The graphic below explains that “fragrance” is generally a unisex term for, well, any smelly substance made up of a certain amount of fragrance oil diluted in alcohol and water. Depending on the concentration, the result gets a different name. Here’s the rundown:
​

​That’s all useful to know, and can certainly help you make a better shopping decision if you’re looking for something to wear that’s a little lighter and won’t stick as long during those hot summer days, or something you want to linger just a touch (or a lot) longer.

Getting perfume just right can be a challenge. Put on too much and your perfume will enter the room before you do. Put on too little, and you might as well have saved your money on that French fragrance. The know-how needed doesn't stop at volume. You also need to know exactly where to spray perfume to get the biggest impact, and how to apply it to make it last all day. Here, tips for how to wear perfume.

Apply to Hydrated Skin
The best time to apply perfume (or any product for that matter) is directly after the shower. Not only is your skin free of dirt, but it is also warm and damp creating the optimum conditions to fully absorb any topical, including your perfume. If you can't shower before spritzing, apply non-scented lotion first. The better moisturized your skin is, the longer your scent will stay on.

Don't Distort Your Scent
Avoid accidentally altering your signature scent by keeping fragrance-packed body washes and lotions to a minimum. Or better yet, cut them out completely. They run the risk of making your perfume come off as too sweet, too intense, or possibly even sour. Leave your skin free of other fragrances, and your perfume will be able to do its best work.

Put on Pulse Points
The fact that ladies look so demure lightly tapping their wrists and neck with perfume isn't the only reason it's been a long-time beauty tradition. Your neck, wrists, backs of knees, and other pulse points emit more heat than other parts of your body. And that heat actually activates and maximizes your perfume.

Dab, Don't Rub
You may have learned to rub your perfumed wrists together from your grandmother, mother, or old movies. As glamorous as it looks, don't. You should avoid spritzing and rubbing for two reasons. First, rubbing your wrists together can dull top notes (or the scents you smell in the first five minutes of applying perfume). Secondly, it mixes the perfume vigorously with your natural oils, which can change the way it smells.

Let the scent soak into your skin instead, or lightly dab your wrists together or dab your wrists to other pulse points. Just don't rub.

Don't Spray on Clothes
If you're in a hurry, don't be tempted to spray perfume onto your clothes. Even a quick spritz may damage clothing, leaving stains. And the scent won't last. Let perfume dry before putting on your clothes if they will cover the pulse points where you wear your fragrance.

Use the Right Amount
If you've ever wondered why some perfumes that smell almost identical are named—and priced—differently, you will be interested to know that these naming conventions indicate different levels of fragrance concentration. The most concentrated is Perfume, second most is Eau de Perfume, third is Eau de Toilette, and the least concentrated is Eau de Cologne. The more concentrated it is, the longer you can expect the scent to last and the less you should use. There is no magic amount to use, but as a rule of thumb, two spritzes directly to the skin should always be plenty—sometimes too much. Before wearing a new perfume out, test its potency at home. Try one spritz on a pulse point, dabbing excess on others, and make note of how strong it is. Then, check in every couple of hours and assess how it's holding up.

Spritz Your Hair
Your pulse points may be the hot spots for applying perfume every day, but try a spritz in your hair for a long-lasting scent. Your movement will help diffuse the perfume throughout the day. Because perfume could dry your scalp, this trick is best saved for special occasions.

Fix Too Much Fragrance
One spray too many? A scent that's too strong? Even if it's the characteristic scent you're known for, you don't want to overwhelm everyone around you. Overdoing fragrance is easy to do. Thankfully you can tone down too much perfume with a dab of rubbing alcohol. Dip a cotton ball in rubbing alcohol and apply it over the areas where you sprayed or dabbed your perfume. Baby wipes or non-scented lotion will also fix an overpowering scent.

Find Your Scent
Even if you've only ever worn the same scent your mother bought you for graduation, a new scent can brighten the change of seasons or add a distinctive touch to special occasions. Floral may be a favorite all year, but try fragrances with warm and woody notes for fall or a spritz of spice for winter. If you have trouble choosing, classic fragrances have stood the test of time for a reason.

For some, time spent in the ocean delivers superb ‘beach hair’ – while, for others, it falls frustratingly short. Here, MALENA HARBERS discovers how to make hair that’s been saturated in salt water or soaked in chlorine look its best


Do the prep work
In reality, all hair types or textures can look a bit of a mess at the beach if hair is left to do its own thing. Salt water, chlorine and UV rays strip it of its natural oils and lift the protective cuticle on the outer layer of your hair, creating a textured effect, but also causing it to feel rough. What’s more, “Most hair damage is the result of going from wet to dry, and harsh chlorine and salt water can add stress to this process,” says A-list hair stylist James Pecis. If you plan to go for a dip, you’ll need to take preventative action. Start by dousing your hair in fresh water – even a quick splash from a bottle will do. Since your hair can only absorb so much, it will soak up less of the chlorinated or salty water. “Whatever your hair texture, keep the mid-lengths to ends coated with an oil or a leave-in conditioner when swimming,” says Pecis. Once out, rinse your hair in cool, fresh water again. This will help to flatten the hair cuticle, making it look instantly smoother and shinier. For even more resilience against the assaults of a summer swim, Pecis recommends a weekly deep-clean with a clarifying shampoo, followed by a deep conditioner or hair mask for root-to-tip nourishment.


Embrace the wet look
The simplest way to ensure good hair is to keep your strands loose and wet and slick them back with a wide-toothed comb. This requires minimal effort and works best for straight to wavy hair types. “Depending on its texture, there are different ways to prevent hair from looking matted,” says Pecis. “For waves and curls, add a hydrating oil to give hair luster.” Straighter hair types will benefit from a texturizing spray. “Mist it from mid-lengths to ends to create shine and definition.” Avoid salt sprays, as your hair will likely already contain a good amount of it. Instead, opt for a UV hair-protection mist, which will prevent the strong summer sun from fading color and zapping moisture, while adding some texture and hold to longer hair. Once your hair begins to dry, a dusting of dry shampoo will boost flat roots and you can spot-treat errant flyaways with an anti-humidity spray, designed to keep frizz at bay.


Opt for a protective style
“If you have curly or coily hair and you’re spending a lot of time in the pool or at the beach, I would suggest wearing your hair in a protective style,” says Pecis. Curly and coily hair types are dry by default, and these styles shield strands from harsh environmental aggressors like UV rays and humidity, as well as drying sea salt and chlorine. “Apply a leave-in conditioner to wet hair before braiding it or twisting it into knots.” Braiding requires some skill, though, so if you have small coils, a high ponytail secured at the crown of your head is even easier to style. Simply smooth a layer of oil over loose ends for added hydrating protection.


Add an accessory
The right hair accessory can make any sun-soaked hairstyle look instantly more polished, so it’s a great option to keep in your beach bag to look more pulled together when heading to the bar. Since hair is more prone to damage when wet, stick to natural materials like silk, cotton and leather, which are less likely to snag or pull fragile strands. A leather headband is an easy and universally flattering addition to any wet-look style, or use a bright silk scarf to cover your hair, leaving the ends to hang loose – it’s super-simple to do and will prevent sun damage and your color from fading. For longer lengths, create a deep side parting before tying hair back into a low ponytail and securing it with a thin scarf or oversized scrunchie. Or, wrap either around a tight top knot to keep your hair off your neck and shoulders on especially sticky beach days.

Makeup and sunscreen can be tricky to wash off your face, since many of these products are water- or sweat-resistant.
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However, traces of makeup or sunscreen left on your skin can clog pores, contributing to acne breakouts and skin irritation, so it ‘s important that you thoroughly wash your face after wearing these products.

Facial cleansing wipes have remained popular for many years, thanks to their convenience, but are now falling out of favor due to the harshness of the alcohol in them. Certain types of alcohol in skincare can be particularly problematic for those with dry or sensitive skin types, making cleansing wipes too harsh for many people.

A gentler and more effective option for removing makeup and sunscreen is to double cleanse, which is gentler on your skin than harsh face wipes or vigorously scrubbing — both of which can cause irritation and damage to the skin barrier.

What is Double Cleansing 
Double cleansing means cleansing your face twice, first with an oil-based product and then followed by a water-based cleanser. The first step of using an oil-based cleanser is helpful when it comes to removing waterproof makeup and sunscreen.



“It can also be helpful in patients with oily skin as a first step to remove excess oil or sebum from the skin,” says Dr. Wu. This extra step can help water-based cleansers work and also allow your other skin care products (think serums, moisturizers, sunscreen, night creams) to penetrate your skin better.


How to double cleanse your face
Double cleansing consists of two steps:

•         Wash your face with a cleansing oil.
•         Wash your face again with a cleanser that is a match for your skin type.

This double cleansing process helps to remove makeup, sunscreen and any heavy dirt from your skin to avoid clogged pores and breakouts. Oily skin types can substitute micellar water for cleansing oil in the first step. Micellar water contains only a small amount of detergent, so it is gentle on sensitive skin and won’t cause breakouts like some oils can.

When choosing a face wash for the second step, be sure to find out your Baumann Skin Type first and then pick a cleanser that matches your skin type. Oily types, for example, can use a foaming cleanser to remove makeup and sunscreen, while dry types should look for non-foaming, creamy cleansers to avoid stripping the skin of its natural oils

Makeup can be a healthy form of self-expression. Not to mention, it can be fun, including when holidays like Halloween roll around and face paint is part of your costume. Yet if you’re a regular makeup wearer, you may experience some unfortunate side effects — particularly if you don’t remove it properly before bed. “Sleeping in makeup is a bad idea,” says Debra Wattenberg, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City. “It clogs your pores, inflames your skin, makes it dull, and creates more wrinkles.”

Remembering to remove makeup before you snooze is step No. 1. Step No. 2 is understanding how to do it correctly to keep your skin looking and feeling healthy. Read on to learn why sleeping in makeup is a big no-no, and how to remove your products the right way before you hit the sheets.


What Happens if You Don’t Remove Makeup Before Sleeping
Nighttime is when your skin heals itself, and sleeping in makeup disrupts this process.

“There is some truth to the term ‘beauty sleep,’” says Jamie R. Manning, MD, a double board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon with a specialty in skin cancer surgery and cosmetic and procedural dermatology. “During the day, the skin acts as a protective barrier to ward off sun damage and oxidative stress, whereas during the nighttime, the skin is able to go into repair mode, regenerating and rebuilding cells and tissues,” Dr. Manning explains.

Dr. Wattenberg says wearing makeup at night “prevents your skin from breathing and healing, causing your skin to create more free radicals and clog your pores.”

Free radicals are substances that create inflammation, causing redness and dullness in the skin. “Free radicals destroy collagen and also cause wrinkles, clogged pores, acne flares, and blackheads,” Wattenberg adds. Research has demonstrated how the creation of free radicals, whether by things like the sun and air pollution, or chemicals put on the skin, can accelerate the aging process. The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) adds that some chemicals in cosmetics can contribute to acne, so a nightly face-washing routine is key.

If you’re wearing makeup for Halloween, consider using products you already own (like your black eyeliner to make dramatic cat eyes and whiskers) rather than costume makeup, which may have more irritating ingredients and can be harder to remove, according to Baylor College of Medicine.

Also, if you have a skin condition such as eczema or psoriasis, removing makeup properly before bed is especially important to keep symptoms tamed. “Most skin conditions will be negatively affected by sleeping with makeup,” says Wattenberg.

When washing your face at night, be sure to tend to your eye area. Leaving eyeshadow, eyeliner and mascara on overnight may contribute to eyelid dermatitis, which the Cleveland Clinic notes happens when your eyelid comes in contact with an irritant, causing redness and scaliness. Another potential result of wearing eye makeup overnight is a sty, “which occurs when the small hair follicles and sebaceous glands are blocked on the eyelid,” Manning adds.

How to Properly Remove Makeup From Skin
“Washing your face and applying appropriate moisturizer creates the perfect environment for your skin to renew and heal,” says Wattenberg. Leaving makeup on, though, does the reverse. “Sleep is the time when your skin does a lot of work with skin cell turnover,” says Angela Lamb, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and the vice chair of clinical operations at Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York City. “So, if you sleep in your makeup, it is difficult for this to happen.”

Follow these dos and don’ts for removing makeup to maintain healthy skin.

Do Consider a Double Cleanse
“Using just a gentle cleanser alone will often leave a thin film of makeup on your skin,” Wattenberg says. That’s where double cleansing comes in. Before applying a gentle cleanser or exfoliator (that is, those that are sans alcohol), you’ll swipe an oil-based cleanser or micellar water onto your skin. If you’ve never heard of the latter, think of it as a modern-day toner — except it’s gentler on sensitive skin because it doesn’t contain alcohol, per the Cleveland Clinic. Rather, micellar water is a water-based product that contains moisturizers and mild surfactants that together can help remove makeup, dirt, and excess oil from the skin. To use it, either pour micellar water in your hands, then massage it on your face or pour it onto a cotton pad to gently remove your makeup, the Cleveland Clinic suggests.

Don’t Use Just Any Old Makeup Remover
“All makeup removers are not created equal,” says Wattenberg. “Most contain fragrance, surfactants, emulsifiers, formaldehyde releasers — any of the ingredients can be irritating.” To be safe, consider sticking with the micellar water or look for products that are fragrance-free and don’t contain those ingredients. Also, avoid makeup-removing wipes. “They often have preservatives in them that can be irritating,” Lamb says. “It's better just to wash your face, particularly if you have worn makeup."
What’s worse is when you scrub the skin with those makeup wipes. “The act of scrubbing your face and eyes with makeup wipes can also cause inflammation and create microtears in the skin,” says Manning, adding that wipes are typically not biodegradable, so can be harmful to the environment.

Do Handle Skin Gently
Scrubbing skin in general is a no-no, because it causes irritation, notes the AAD.
After cleansing, rinse off any cleanser residue, then pat your skin with a towel so that some moisture remains, according to Mayo Clinic. Avoid rubbing your skin to dry it, according to the University of Tennessee Medical Center, because this removes too much moisture.

Don’t Skip a Moisturizer
Moisturizer should be an essential part of your evening skin-care routine. If you are used to leaving makeup on at night, your skin may be dry, says Manning, which makes this step extra important. Moisturizers contain substances that help hold water on your skin, thereby preventing dryness, according to Harvard Health Publishing. After patting dry your skin, immediately apply your moisturizer of choice (unless you’re applying a serum first, for example). According to the AAD, applying moisturizer on damp skin traps the moisture in, so your moisturizer is more effective. As for which type to use, talk with a dermatologist who can suggest options based on your skin type, the AAD adds.

When it comes to your beauty routine, sleep may be the closest thing there is to a fountain of youth. Your body repairs itself and recovers while you snooze, and that leads to a long list of benefits for your looks. The key is to get enough shut-eye -- 7 to 9 quality hours each night.

What is Beauty Sleep“Beauty sleep" is real. Your skin uses sleep hours to heal itself from the day's damage. When you drift off, your skin gets the chance to improve. That's why you may wake up looking fresh and rosy.


If you’re getting fewer than 6 hours, it’s likely affecting your appearance, says Michael Breus, PhD, a board-certified sleep specialist. Start getting 1 to 3 more hours of Zzz's, and you could see some improvement in as little as a day. Keep it up, and “within 2 to 3 weeks, people will notice that you’re sleeping better by the way you look,” Breus says.

Here are the six beauty benefits of getting enough rest.

1. Fewer Wrinkles
Skin makes new collagen when you sleep, which prevents sagging. “That’s part of the repair process,” says Patricia Wexler, MD, a dermatologist in New York. More collagen means skin is plumper and less likely to wrinkle. Only getting 5 hours a night can lead to twice as many fine lines as sleeping 7 would. It also leaves skin drier, which can make lines more visible, Wexler says.

2. A Glowing Complexion
Your body boosts blood flow to the skin while you snooze, which means you wake to a healthy glow. Skimp on sleep and your complexion can look drab, ashen, or lifeless. “Sleep deprivation causes a decrease in blood flow to the skin surrounding your face,” Breus says. “Skin becomes dull, and you don’t get those rosy cheeks anymore.”
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3. Brighter, Less Puffy Eyes
Chances are, you’ve had dark circles or bags under your eyes after a night of too few Zzz’s.
“Puffy eyes are one of the first things we see when we don’t sleep,” says Doris Day, MD, a clinical associate professor of dermatology at New York University Langone Medical Center. Get enough shut-eye and you'll have less puffiness under your eyes. Stay well-hydrated and elevate your head with an extra pillow at night, too. That can also help reduce swelling.

Plenty of rest can also minimize dark circles. When blood isn’t flowing well -- which happens when you’re low on sleep -- it can collect under eyes and become visible, since the skin there is so thin.
Discoloration under eyes can also be caused by genes, age, and increased melanin (the brown pigment in skin that causes it to tan in the sun). If this is the case, sleep deprivation can make your under-eye issue worse, Breus says.

4. Healthier, Fuller Hair
Hair loss, breakage, damage, and even growth can all be affected by lack of sleep, Breus says. Hair follicles (where hair growth begins) gain nutrients, vitamins, and minerals from blood flow. Since blood flow decreases when we’re short on shut-eye, “hair gets less food, it weakens, and it has difficulty growing,” Breus says. Lack of Zzz's can also lead to more stress, Wexler says. “Stress causes an increase in the hormone cortisol, which can cause you to lose hair.”

5. Happier, Healthier Appearance
Being short on sleep can cause the corners of your mouth to droop, making you look sadder than you do after a good night’s rest. “When you’re tired, your facial expressions change in subtle and consistent ways. We tend to furrow and frown more,” Day says. “When people say, ‘You look tired,’ it can be because of these expressions.”
Red, swollen eyes, dark circles, sagging eyelids, and paler skin can also signal to others that you’re exhausted. People who don't get enough rest are also seen as less healthy than when they’re rested.

6. Products Work Better
Your skin can focus on repairing itself while you sleep, since it isn’t defending itself from sun and free radicals (harmful molecules from the environment). Blood flow is also more consistent, and this helps your skin benefit from the flesh-repairing ingredients in your beauty products, Wexler says.
Skin also loses more water when you sleep than it does during the day. Apply a creamier moisturizer before bed and drink plenty of water during the day to help your complexion stay hydrated overnight, Day says.


The effects of sleep deprivation on your skin
Though one night of bad sleep isn’t serious, the cumulative effects of sleep deprivation can literally be seen on your face. That’s why we recommend sleep as an essential part of your skin care routine.


When you don’t get enough sleep, here’s what you get instead:   

• More wrinkles and complaints – One study suggests that people who sleep too little have more fine lines and wrinkles and are less satisfied with how they look, compared to people who get enough sleep!
• Dehydrated, sallow skin – Consistent lack of sleep makes it hard for your skin to stay hydrated and can cause a dull complexion known as sallow skin.
• Swollen eyes and a sad face – Sleep deprivation leads to swollen eyes and makes you look sad, according to a Swedish study. The study also suggests that appearing tired and sad may have negative social consequences.
• Impaired healing ability – Cell regeneration happens when we sleep and not getting enough sleep means we don’t heal as fast as usual. If you notice a blemish taking longer to disappear than normal, you may want to hit the hay early tonight.

If you’re not getting 7-9 hours of sleep every night—the recommended dose for adults—you may wonder how to make beauty sleep part of your life.


5 tricks for getting a good night’s sleep, every night
It’s common for people to feel stressed and helpless about not sleeping well. The good news is sleeping well relies a lot on practicing good habits that are within your control. Harvard Health Publishing suggests 12 tips for getting a good night’s rest and we recommend starting your beauty sleep routine with these five:

1. Sleep in a comfortable bed in a dark and quiet bedroom.
2. Develop a relaxing night routine, and go to bed and get up at the same time every day.
3. Don’t stay in bed if you can’t sleep—instead, go to another room, and read in dim light until you’re sleepy enough to go back to bed.
4. Set the right mental associations with your bed by using it only for sleeping and sex.
5. Watch your caffeine consumption and avoid it after 2 p.m.

​
Getting your beauty rest is one of the best things you can do for your health and your face.
We’re here to help. If you’d like to give yourself a dose of relaxation to kickstart a new sleep routine, give us a call to book a soothing facial or massage.

In 1994, make-up artist and photographer François Nars released a collection of 12 lipsticks housed in sleek black tubes with his name engraved on them. His goal was to share his love of this timeless product with the world. However, more than two decades later, NARS Cosmetics is known all over the world for more than their lipsticks. The brand’s portfolio has grown by leaps and bounds to include some of the most cult-favourite products the beauty world has to offer. These hardworking products do their job and they do it so, so well. And now, instead of just reading about these orgasmic (IYKYK) products, you can add them to your beauty bags for NARS Cosmetics just launched in India at select Shoppers Stop and Sephora stores around the country!  

What we love about the brand is its ability to strike a balance between art and everyday needs. From easy-to-apply eyeshadows and creamy lipsticks in popping hues, to the beyond viral Orgasm blush (Yep, the very one Kate Middleton wore on her wedding day and numerous other celebrities rave about), NARS products just get it. We are also glad that it offers a large range of shades. This means, no matter your skin tone, you are bound to find a perfect match! There is a reason this brand has the amount of loyalists they do.  
 
If you’re looking to add NARS to your beauty bag, here are some products you shouldn’t miss out on! 

​NARS Cosmetics will be available at select Shoppers Stop and Sephora stores across the country and online at www.shoppersstop.com, www.ssbeauty.in and www.sephora.nnnow.com. ​

Soft and plumpy lips seem beautiful, but keeping them healthy is more important. If you are someone who tries to hide dark and chapped lips with lipstick then you need to know the essential lip care hacks. The best part is that you don’t have to invest any hefty amount in doing so. So let’s get into the lip care tips. 

Exfoliation
The first thing that you need to inculcate in your lip care routine is exfoliation. It helps in removing dead skin cells and boosts blood circulation. Take a damp cloth and rub it on your lips in the morning. 

Use DIY Lip Scrub
You don’t have to buy lip scrubs from the market. You can make your lip scrub using almond oil, honey, and raw sugar. You can scrub one to two times a week. 

Stay Hydrated
Lack of hydration is one of the major causes of dry and chapped lips. Drink 8-10 glasses of water every day for healthy lips. 

Moisturise Your Lips
It is very important to moisturize your lips regularly, especially before sleeping and when you wake up. You can use natural moisturiser such as aloe vera gel or coconut oil.

Apply Sunscreen
Sun exposure can damage your lips to the same extent as your face. So while you are applying the sunscreen on your face make sure to cover your lips as well. However, you can also use lip balm with SPF ingredients.

Taking care of your lips is as important as your face. Follow these steps to get naturally healthy and kissable lips. 

We all know that brushing your hair daily is essential for the growth of your hair. Not only does it help distribute sebum across your hair rather than just your scalp, but it also helps with detangling hair. Brushing your hair can help flatten it and leave it looking much shinier than if you had left it unkempt. If you want your hair to look soft, shiny, and healthy, then there are a couple of tips that you need to keep in mind. From investing in a boar bristle hair brush to changing the way you brush your hair, here are nine hair brush tips that you need to follow:

1. Don’t Brush Your Hair When It’s Wet
Be patient when you are combing your hair. As much as you would like to comb your hair when it is wet, it can break more easily if you do. Sure wet hair is easy to detangle, and if you’re in a hurry, you might do it anyway, but you should avoid doing this as much as possible. To minimize the stress caused on your hair, you should use a wide-toothed comb of a hair brush that has flexible bristles to brush your hair.

2. Brush Your Hair From Bottom To Top
Instead of brushing your hair from top to bottom (like it is commonly done), you need to start detangling it from the bottom to the top. Work your way up the length of your hair and smoothen your hair. Also, make sure that you use a detangling spray or serum. If you try to detangle your hair from the roots, you will put stress on your strands, leading to breakage.

3. Avoid Over Brushing Your Hair
If you brush your hair more often than needed, it can damage your cuticles and cause your hair to get damaged on the inside. Brush your hair two times a day at the maximum and with only three to four strokes. This should be more than enough to reshape your hairstyle, flatten your hair and detangle your knots.

4. Clean Your Hair Brush Weekly
A hair brush keeps your hair’s outer layer soft and helps to redistribute all of the natural oils from your roots to the tips of your hair. However, if your hair brush is filled with residue from hair products or other dirt, it can cause more harm than good. It’s recommended that you clean your brush every other week or more frequently if your hair is long. A sure sign that your hair needs a good wash is if you start to see residue from hair products forming on your bristles. First, you need to pull out any hair that might be lodged in your hair and then wash it with some regular shampoo. Once this is done, make sure you dry the bush and keep it out in the sun to ensure there is no bacteria growth.

5. Consider Investing On A Hair Brush With Boar Bristles
While we understand that boar bristle brushes are a little pricier than regular brushes, they are brilliant for your hair. The bristles help redistribute your scalp’s natural oils across your hair and give it the lustrous shine that you desire. If you are someone who has frizzy and dry hair, then a brush with boar Brussels can help tame it without a blow dryer. It can also help your hair look more voluminous.

6. Choosing The Right Hair Brush Can Help Prevent Static
It can be pretty tough to find the right hair brush for yourself. However, this can save you plenty of time, money, and frustration. The shape, size, and type matter a lot when it comes to purchasing the right brush. If your hair tends to get charged up, consider purchasing a brush that has negative ions. Opt for a brush that has boar, metal, wood or other natural bristles. Avoid using brushes that have plastic bristles as they are made of insulating material and hold static.

7. Get A Brush That Has A Cushion At The End If You Have Fine Hair
If you have delicate, fragile, and thin hair, you need to accept that your hair needs more TLC than normal hair does. You will need to avoid bristles that have metal tips or are pokey and sharp. These types of bristles may damage your scalp or tear your hair. Instead, you need to look for hair brushes that have balled or rounded tips. A trick to check the quality of your hair brush is to run it over the inside of your hands.

8. Replace Your Brush Often
We understand that it can be pretty difficult to bid farewell to that perfect brush you picked up, but everything in life has an expiry date. You need to replace your brush as soon as you notice the bristles fraying and breaking off. If you purchase a good quality hair brush, then it should give you a good two to three years of use before you need to say goodbye.

9. Brush Your Hair Before You Shampoo It
Brushing your hair before you shampoo it can help loosen any product buildup or dirt on your scalp. This will make it easier for you to wash all the dirt away from your scalp, as products can get stuck inside tangles and knots.

If you keep these tips in mind, we guarantee that you will see a drastic change in the quality of your hair. It can be pretty challenging to understand what works for your hair, but we guarantee that you will figure things out with patience. 

A good hair day never fails to uplift our mood, and if we are being honest, we all pray for a good hair diy every day! Brushing our hair is an integral part of our hair care routine, but most of us are guilty of not doing it correctly. You might be tempted to brush it all in one stroke and get it over with, but as you can guess, that will only lead to painful tears! The good news is, by using the correct techniques, you will be able to flaunt gorgeous locks in no time. In this article, we will explore the secrets of combing hair that will help you achieve beautiful and strong hair. Read on to know them all!

Benefits Of Combing Your Hair Properl
Combing your hair helps in distributing natural oils from the scalp throughout the hair. It also promotes moisture retention and enhances shine. Regular combing prevents tangles and knots and reduces the risk of hair breakage. It also aids in stimulating the scalp, promoting blood circulation, and encouraging healthy hair growth. By using the proper hair combing techniques, you can achieve manageable hair every day.

Choosing The Right Comb
Selecting the right comb for your hair type is essential to ensure effective combing. For thick, coarse, or curly hair, wide-toothed combs are preferable as they help detangle without causing excessive pulling or breakage. Fine-toothed combs are more suitable for thin or straight hair, allowing for smoother combing. Consider using combs made of high-quality materials like wood or carbon, as they are gentle on the hair and minimize static electricity. Avoid using plastic combs with sharp edges, as they can cause hair breakage and damage over time.

Step-By-Step Guide To Combing Your Hair

1. Start With Slightly Damp Or Dry Hair
Start by combing your hair when it’s dry or slightly damp to minimize hair breakage. Wet hair is more fragile and prone to damage, so it’s best to detangle it before washing or when it’s only slightly damp. You can use a hairdryer with a mild heat setting, and dry it off after a shower to prevent hair damage.

2. Begin Combing At The Ends
Start combing from the ends of your hair, gradually working your way up toward the roots. This approach prevents unnecessary pulling and reduces breakage. If you come across any knots or tangles, hold the hair above the tangled area and gently comb through the lower section until it’s smooth. Then, gradually work your way up to detangle the entire length.

3. Use Gentle Strokes
Avoid using aggressive or forceful strokes while combing your hair. Use gentle and smooth strokes instead to maintain the integrity of your hair strands. Take your time, especially when dealing with longer or thicker hair, to ensure thorough combing without causing any hair damage.

4. Pay Attention To The Scalp
While combing your hair, pay attention to your scalp. The gentle pressure from the comb stimulates blood circulation, promoting a healthier scalp and hair growth. However, avoid scratching or rubbing the scalp vigorously, as it can cause irritation.

5. Comb In Sections
If you have thick or voluminous hair, consider dividing it into smaller sections for more manageable combing. This approach allows better control and prevents overlooking any tangles or knots.

6. Be Mindful Of Styling Products
If you use styling products like hairspray or gel, be cautious while combing to avoid clumps or residue buildup. Comb gently through the hair to evenly distribute the product without causing clumping or creating an uneven appearance.

7. Clean And Maintain Your Comb
It is important to regularly clean your comb to remove dirt, oils, and product buildup. A clean comb ensures optimal hygiene and prevents the transfer of dirt to your hair. Wash it with mild shampoo and warm water, or use a toothbrush to remove debris from the comb’s teeth.
Properly combing your hair may seem like a trivial task, but it plays a vital role in maintaining healthy and beautiful locks. By following the steps outlined in this article and using the right tools, you can minimize breakage, promote hair growth, and achieve a well-groomed appearance. Remember to be gentle, start from the ends, and pay attention to your scalp. By following these simple tricks, you’ll soon be able to notice the difference in your hair health. So, what is your secret to maintaining healthy hair? 

We all are aware of the fact that a hair spa is a rejuvenating hair treatment. The benefits of hair spa include proper nourishment and moisturization of the hair and scalp. If you have dry, oily, damaged, unmanageable, and breakage-prone hair, then a hair spa can be your one-stop solution for all the problems. It can leave your hair silky and smooth. This article discusses more benefits of a hair spa and an easy DIY hair spa tutorial that you can try at your home.

What Is A Hair Spa?
A hair spa is a relaxing and soothing hair care treatment offered by salons to revitalize hair. It improves hair texture and appearance and makes your hair soft, smooth, and shiny. It reduces the detrimental effects of pollution, weather, dirt, and UV rays on hair. It transforms dry and brittle hair into hydrated, beautiful tresses.

Here are some of the advantages of a hair spa treatment.
Benefits Of A Hair Spa

• Regulates sebum production
• Conditions the hair and scalp to prevent dryness
• Rejuvenates dry, brittle, rough, and thinning hair
• Reduces hair loss
• Stimulates hair growth
• Cleanses the scalp and prevents dandruff
• Improves hair and scalp health
• Unclogs pores and removes product residue and dirt from the scalp
• Increases blood circulation
• Repairs damaged hair

There are many treatments offered at hair spas. We have listed them below.
Treatments Available At Hair Spas

1. Hair Growth Treatments: Hair loss is a prevalent problem and may affect an individuals mental state. Hair spas offer hair growth treatments that reduce or treat hair loss and its causes. They also may promote hair growth.
2. Deep Conditioning Treatments: These treatments are meant for dry and brittle hair. They use masks and packs filled with hydrating ingredients to rejuvenate and moisturize your hair strands.
3. De-stressor Treatments: Stress is among the major causes of hair loss issues like alopecia and telogen effluviumi. Stress increases free radical production and leads to hair loss due to oxidative damage. Hair spas offer de-stressor  treatments that keep you relaxed, potentially reducing hair loss.
4. Dandruff Treatments: Dandruff affects about 50% of the general population. It is primarily caused by Malassezia furfuri  . It may even cause hair loss and scalp inflammation if left untreated. Hair spas offer anti-dandruff treatments that use antimicrobial and antifungal ingredients to cleanse and protect the scalp.
5. Chemical- And Colour-Treated Hair Treatments: Regular use of chemicals, hair colours, bleach, and other styling treatments can leave hair damaged and dry. You may opt for this treatment at a hair spa to revitalize and fortify your damaged hair strands. These treatments undo the damage done to your hair by chemicals and colorantsi . 
6. Smoothing Treatments: This treatment is for those who have to deal with frizz, static, and flyaways. Frizz occurs due to the interfiber frictioni  within the hair shaft. These smoothing treatments leave hair silky smooth by diminishing frizz. They reduce the interfiber friction and soften the hair strands.
7. Hair Restoration Treatments: Regular grooming habits, pollution, dirt, and sun exposure leave hair dry, dirty, damaged, and weakened. Sun exposure may also lighten your natural or added hair color. You may opt for these treatments if you feel your hair is damaged beyond repair.
8. Aromatherapy: Aromatherapyi  is an effective way to stimulate hair growth (4). Many hair spas today offer aromatherapy treatments that include beneficial essential oils.
9. Hair Massage Therapy: Massaging the scalp increases blood flow and may increase hair thickness. 

These treatments stimulate your hair follicles and also leave you feeling calm and refreshed.

In a survey conducted among 1000 U.S. adult citizens, 31% of respondents believe in the therapeutic efficacy of aromatherapy or roughly one-third of respondents. This indicates that aromatherapy is a popular alternative form of medicine among Americans

Frequent styling of your tresses through blow-drying, chemical use, and heat styling can increase the need for moisture for the hair. These procedures help you get an instant makeover, but they tend to dry your hair, lead to hair breakage or split ends, and damage it. So, how can you put your locks back to health?

The Causes Of Dry Hair
There are several reasons for dry hair. If your scalp does not produce sufficient sebum, your hair may become dry. With age, sebum production starts to decrease. This condition leads to dry, brittle hair that lacks moisture.
Other factors that can lead to dry hair include:

• Excess Use Of Styling Tools: The heat from the styling tools like hot rollers, curlers, flat irons, and blow dryers strips the natural moisture of your hair and makes it dry. Dyeing and chemical treatments also often contribute to dry hair.
• Frequent Shampooing: Shampooing frequently can make your hair dry. The harsh chemicals in the shampoo can damage your hair and cause frizz. Also, not using a conditioner after shampooing can make your hair look dry, dull, and lifeless.
• Harsh Environmental Conditions: Exposing your hair to the wind, sun, chlorine, and harsh climatic conditions can make it dull and dry.
• Bad Brushing: Metal hair brushes with uneven bristles can make your hair dry and lead to breakage.

Check out these simple yet effective ways to learn how to moisturize dry hair and get back your soft and lush locks.

Best Ways To Moisturize Your Hair

1. Use A Moisturizing Shampoo And Conditioner
Use hydrating shampoos and deep conditioners best suited for your hair type. You can also opt for leave-in conditioners or hair moisturizers that add extra moisture to your hair. These products can replenish the lost moisture of your dry hair and help nourish it.

2. Switch To Cold Water Rinse
Rinsing your hair with hot water can strip its natural moisture and oil. This makes your hair dry, frizzy, and brittle. Cold water seals the hair moisture and scalp pores, preventing the entry of dirt and impurities.

3. Add A Serum To Your Daily Hair Care Routine
Hair serums help coat your hair with moisture and protect it from damage caused by curling rods, flat irons, and blow dryers. Serums reduce frizz and make your hair shiny and smooth. Apply serum to damp hair after shampooing and conditioning. You can also use it as a finishing touch on dry, styled strands to add instant shine.

4. Use A Dry Shampoo
Shampooing daily can make the hair dry. Instead of washing your hair regularly, use dry shampoos between washes to refresh your hair and prevent oil buildup on your scalp. Apply a dry shampoo when your strands feel oily and the ends need moisture.

5. Limit The Use Of Hot Styling Tools
Heat styling tools can dry your hair out. If you cannot avoid them altogether, use them on the lowest/coolest setting and apply a heat protectant to prevent your hair from getting fried. Use heat-free styling products like setting sprays, hair mousses, and gels to prevent damage and keep your hair hydrated.

6. Use A Deep Conditioning Hair Mask
Weekly hair mask treatments are an excellent measure to preserve your overall hair health. A hair mask with nourishing ingredients, such as honey and egg yolk, can moisturize dry locks, add shine, and soften the hair. It is one of the best hair moisturizers you can prepare at home. This treatment repairs damaged hair and conditions the hair fibers at a deep level. You can also follow up with hair oil or serum for added hydration and smoothness.

7. Apply Nourishing Hair Oils
Dry and brittle hair is prone to static as it lacks moisture. Coconut, almond, argan, and olive oils can help moisturize your dull strands. Apply a few drops of any of these oils to the dry ends of your hair and brush gently. You can also massage these oils onto the length of your locks to smoothen them and tame frizz.

You can also get regular trims, use microfiber towels, and follow a nutritious diet to retain your hair’s natural moisture.

Now that you have got an idea of how to moisturize hair, scroll down for a few homemade remedies to keep it hydrated

It is believed that a person’s choice of perfume reflects their personality. Also, the fragrance you choose to wear for different occasions may say a lot about you and your current mood. Similarly, the places you apply the perfume and the application method may enhance the strength and longevity of the smell. Want to know how? Here in this article, we have shared the secret to making your perfume linger longer. Read on to know them all!

Where Should Women Apply Perfume?
Perfume is most effective when applied to the wrists, nape of the neck, and other places where the wearer may feel their pulse (1). When used on these spots, the perfume’s aroma is amplified and blended with the wearer’s scent. In the summer, when the weather is warm, and your dress is flowy, you can spray the scent on your neck, arms, chest, and popliteal fossa to help the scent escape slowly.

Here are a few things you need to keep in mind while applying perfume:

• It is recommended that you stay out of certain areas while spraying perfume. For example, avoid getting spray near your eyes, under your arms, or anywhere with sensitive skin. If you feel your skin reacting to the perfume and creating a burning sensation, wash the area immediately and apply a soothing ointment.
• If you apply petroleum jelly or unscented lotion on your skin beforehand, the perfume will stick around for much longer.
• You can use pure perfume on your hair or your skin. You shouldn’t spray it onto the air. You can apply it to your clothes (read the label on your clothes for safety precautions) or massage it directly on your skin.
• Perfumes shouldn’t be kept in the bathroom because of the high humidity, warm temperatures, and intense light that might damage them over time. Instead, they should be kept in a walk-in closet or other cold, dry, and dark environments.
• Use a set that includes a lotion, cream, or shower gel in addition to your fragrance or Eau de parfum. You may rely on them to prolong the duration of the fragrance’s contact with your skin.

Where Should Men Apply Perfume?
Even for men, perfume should be sprayed on areas where the pulse can be felt. The perfume’s aroma is most apparent at these spots and mingles with the body’s odor. Applying perfume on the neck, behind the ears, shoulders, lower jaw, chest, forearm, and wrists is recommended for men. You don’t need to spray perfume on each area; pick the one that makes you feel most comfortable. Applying scent to the shoulders and wrists, for instance, requires only a few sprays from a distance of four to six inches.

It only takes 2 or 3 clicks of the spray to make yourself smell good. Avoid spraying too much perfume at one time. Instead, carry the bottle with you to refresh your scent once the fragrance subsides. Also, keep the scent away from the garments. Fabric-degrading oils and alcohol might be included in the perfume that can destroy your clothes. It works best when applied to freshly showered skin while the pores remain open. It will improve the scent’s ability to “stick” to the skin.

Application Tips For Long-Lasting Perfume
The kind of perfume you choose and the composition of the aroma will determine how long the scent will last.

Parfum
The strong smell can be attributed to the high concentration of aromatic chemicals, even up to 40% in some cases. These perfumes mostly come in tiny vials that don’t allow spraying, so you’ll need to dab a few drops into your skin. Perfume’s aroma absorbs slowly but lingers longer.

Eau de parfum
The concentration of fragrance ingredients in Eau de Parfum (EDP) is typically between 15% and 20%. Effective and long-lasting, the aroma of Eau de parfum is a delight. It is often offered in a bottle with a spray top.

Eau de toilette
Eau de toilette (EDT) is famous for its low cost and subtle fragrance. It includes no more than 10% fragrance ingredients. However, because of the low quantity of aromatic components, the scent only lasts up to 4 hours after application.

Eau de Cologne, or EDC
The concentration of fragrance ingredients in Eau de Cologne (EDC) is between three and eight percent. So its scent is even less noticeable than that of eau de toilette. In addition, eau de Cologne only lasts for a short time.

Splash
Fragrant ingredients make up between 1% and 3% of a splash. Therefore, it has the weakest scent retention and is no longer detectable an hour after being applied to the skin.

It’s crucial to think about one’s own preferences while selecting a perfume. Many people with migraines find that even a strong fragrance might bring on an episode. As a result, people need to look for items with a minimal amount of fragrance added.