One of My Forever Skincare Favorites: Sisley’s Ecological Compound

Sisley’s Ecological Compound Advanced Formula is yet another skincare love affair I’ve shamelessly gushed about for years. I mean, are you sick of me waxing poetic about this serum/moisturizer hybrid? Well, tough. Would you rather I dance around with the latest fad in skincare that claims to "transform your skin overnight" but instead leaves you questioning whether you just got swindled out of your lunch money?

The truth is, there’s no skin savior on the market quite like this. This magic potion, infused with burdock and meadowsweet in its latest reformulation, is like a a botanical haven for your skin’s microbiome—calming, healing, and somehow making me feel like my face is wrapped in a soft, breathable shield. As I gracefully age (read: decline), my skin has become more sensitive than my feelings on a Monday, but this brew’s quiet genius strengthens my barrier and keeps me feeling as resilient as my inner resting bitch face exterior. Sure, it’s Sisley, and yes, it’s still on the high-end spectrum as far as price goes, but it’s practically the budget option in their range, so why not treat yourself to something that doesn’t make your skin cry for mercy?

Why Body Soap Is So Last Year: I Switched to This Plant-Powered Surfactant & My Skin’s Never Been Happier

Let’s be honest—keeping your skin below the neck in flawless condition is no easy feat. I use body oils and not body moisturizers. That said, between early morning workouts and those soothing nighttime showers (because, really, who can go to sleep without one?), I’m practically living underneath a stream of Los Angeles water. But here’s the kicker: we all want to feel clean, right? The sad truth is, even the most “organic” and “gentle” body soaps often do more harm than good, especially when you’re showering twice a day. Dry, tight, parched skin? Hard pass.

So, when I was introduced to OSEA’s Undaria Algae Body Wash, a plant-powered surfactant, I permanently replaced my old body soap and never looked back. Made with seaweed, this product not only removes impurities but leaves my skin feeling like it’s been pampered by a sea breeze. It’s pH-balanced, so no more stripping your skin of moisture—just pure hydration and cleanliness. What really sold me? The aloe and glycerin, which work overtime to protect and nourish your skin’s moisture barrier, along with a blend of jojoba, coconut, and avocado oils that leave skin feeling like velvet.

So, toss the body soap. Seriously. You’ll have soft, revitalized skin that practically whispers "luxury" every time you touch it.

Hairstylist Gregory Russell’s Short-and-Sweet Guide to Keeping Styled Hair Healthy

One of the most important steps to styling hair is how you prepare it. From the shampoo and conditioner you use to the serums, lotions, mousses, and mists that supplement your hair routine, it all matters. One of my favorite products to prep hair is the new Pureology Strength Cure Dream Healer Serum. Not only is it healing the hair from the inside out, but the mirror-like finish is the stuff of hairstylists’ dreams. I’ve never had such a reactive response to a product as I have with this one. People are delightfully shocked by how soft and shiny their hair looks and feels.  

I think about hair like I think about my skincare. The shampoo is just as important as your facial cleanser, the serums and oils are just as important (and should be personalized the same) as the ones you use for your face. The first product I add to my hair out of the shower is Color Fanatic Spray to help with smoothing, adding protection and shine. Then I add two pumps of dream healer, to keep my hair looking frizz-free, shiny, and to define my curls. I will add another pump after it’s fully dry for more definition to my waves. 

On my clients, I generally will start with a detangling leave-in/heat protectant like Color Fanatic Spray. Your hair is most sensitive when it's wet because of how elastic it becomes. Using a detangler before brushing is important to protect against breakage and add hydration. The next step for me is using a serum like the Dream Healer Serum to add slip, heal split ends, add high shine, and recondition so my finished product is long-lasting, super shiny, bouncy, and healthy. After my blowout, I will use some additional serum for more shine, definition, and polish. It's also amazing to use for sleek ponytails.

How Brow Guru Kristie Streicher Achieves “Above-Average” Skin Tone & Texture

When it comes to beauty and looking/feeling good, it’s all about good brows and skin for me. They’re both the key to looking naturally youthful and framed.  Properly shaped eyebrows can enhance and lift the entire face.  By defining your brow bone—which then accentuates the cheekbones—you’ll essentially be uplifting your whole visage. As an eyebrow artist, witnessing this transformation and seeing clients radiate confidence after an eyebrow treatment is truly rewarding.

Streicher working her brow magic on a client.

Streicher in her studio.

If you know me, you know I am terrified of any skin procedures (outside of a baby's tear drop of Botox for my 11s).  My secret weapon for above-average tone and texture for the last few years has been my ZIIP Halo device. This handheld tool utilizes both microcurrent and nanocurrent technology to emulate the body’s natural electrical currents, promoting skin cell renewal and repair. The bouncy, plump, and even texture is unparalleled—and the best part is it only takes minutes. I try to use this facial toning device at least twice a week; my favorite 1-2 combo (which I do monthly) is to use it following the Shani Darden Triple Acid Peel—it’s as close to receiving a supercharged, professional facial as you can get.

My nighttime routine is pretty simple. I’ve recently started using Lenox & Sixteenth’s The Laser Serum Triple Acid Concentrate—it’s been a game-changer for my texture and overall brightness.  I find taking my progesterone (HRT) and some magnesium before bed really helps with getting a restful night’s sleep, which is everything!

Why Elsa Marie Collins Starts Every Day With Her Morning ‘Non-negotiable’

What does success look like for me, a mother of three multiracial, multicultural, and multilingual children, plus a husband who lives part-time in a different state? How does it manifest for a woman like myself, one who runs her own charitable organization and a consulting company, on top of simply trying to be a functioning member of society? If I told you all of it hinges upon 20 minutes on the treadmill, you might not believe me. But those precious 20 minutes of exercise each morning give me purpose and keep me focused. Frankly, it is a way to motivate me to help others.

My workout is about more than movement—it’s about setting up my day for success. I would wake up every morning with the idea that the treadmill was the most important priority of the day—not because it actually was, but because if I didn’t give it this level of importance, it would be very easy for me to do [insert any activity that society deems is important for women/mothers]. So I treated my morning workout like an absolute must. And before long, the routine became the thing giving my day structure and meaning. 

I call these 20 minutes my non-negotiable. After my alarm goes off, I head downstairs to the kitchen to prepare lunch for my youngest child and start to get breakfast ready for the family.  I then head to my treadmill for 20 minutes to get my sanity. I get on the treadmill to ideate around projects. I walk on the treadmill to ruminate on the day ahead and get ready to tackle all of the items that are on my calendar and my to-do list. Once I get this movement in, I can finish making breakfast, do school drop-off, and then start my work day.

But what if I have an early flight? A service trip to the border? A visit to a battleground state to help my community get out and vote? Do I still get my non-negotiable in? Yes, I do. I have set my alarm at 4 AM to ensure I have those 20 minutes, because as tired as I am when I get out of bed, I know I will feel worse if I don’t do it at all. This simple act rids me of anxiety and generally makes me feel like I can handle anything that comes my way. That’s a powerful 20 minutes!

The first time I ever heard the phrase “mom guilt” was a couple of weeks after having my first child. I was trying to figure out when I was going to be able to work out between feedings, taking showers, and getting back to work. Then someone said to me, “but won’t you feel guilty that you are working out instead of doing [insert any activity that society attributes to women/mothers]?” I remember this moment clearly—and I also recall deciding, then and there, that I wouldn’t. I knew I would be a better mother, worker, and human being if I did this one activity for myself. As a result, I unsubscribed from mom guilt (and from peer pressure, too!). No one is living your life in your shoes, so why let their opinions affect you?

Beauty Writer Zoe Schaeffer Will Happily Take a Week of Downtime for This Skincare Treatment

Zoe Schaeffer

My beauty writer circle likes to talk shop about treatments, because we feel like we’ve tried them all. We have our no-no’s (deep heat!) and our goals (skin longevity!) and are always looking for the next best thing. Well, I believe I found it, and it’s called cold oxygen plasma. The treatment is offered by my new favorite face witch, Jennifer Gerace, (aka Beverly Hills Skincare Muse), who has cooler shit than any aesthetician I’ve ever been to (next up: needling with fermented vegetable serum from Korea).

Here’s how cold plasma works, in a nutshell: the plasmaceptor device vaporizes the skin by using energy that delivers oxygen directly to cells, which triggers a healing response—or “controlled micro-injury” much like microneedling if you’re familiar with that. In turn, cold plamsa does all the things: tighten, build collagen, promote cell turnover, shrink pores, and (my favorite) “lift” pigmentation. But the service also has some unexpected benefits that are tricky to otherwise achieve, like helping eyebrows grow back, zapping pesky upper-lip lines…One time, it literally made one of Jennifer’s clients look as if she got a lower bleph (check her IG for proof!).

Jen Gerace performs a facial treatment on Zoe Schaeffer.

As someone with hyperpigmentation, slight rosacea, and mild melasma, the treatment completely evened everything out. A week later, I looked in the mirror and swore I was still wearing foundation from the night before (an actual thought I had, by the way). The only downside is downtime. Because you need to clear your calendar for…One Week. And that’s one week of looking like cars ran all over your face and neck (an area which Jennifer claims plasma will “shrink wrap”!) The tire-track scabs eventually flake off, much like an IPL, to again, compare it to a more recognizable treatment. And while I maintain that the week of looking crazy is indeed worth it, Jennifer now sells (and is one of the few to carry in the U.S.), a plasmasceptor home device as a companion to the service, or simply to use on its own. Its sound (a zapping noise), and smell (let’s just say it gives "burning") are nothing to fear at all. You are not heating up skin, nor are you messing with your barrier. Rather, you are restoring cells and improving elasticity; in five to seven minutes, you're done and ready to resume your normal skincare routine the following morning. Yes, it’s an investment (less than a Lyma, more than a Nuface), but will yield similar results to the treatment over time. Plus, there is no downtime. But in the end, a week of working from home, passing up events, and snuggling on the couch just feels like a great price to pay for your best skin ever.

How Matt Rez Keeps His Clients’ Hair Smooth and Healthy—Even Between Dye Jobs

My entire career has been dedicated to healthy hair and maintaining the integrity of my clients’ hair while changing colors. The hyper vigilance in me to save every strand has gotten me the reputation and career I have today. As careful as I have always worked, I would quite often turn new clients with compromised hair away out of fear of potentially damaging their hair.

 But that was before I started using Epres Professional Bond Repair. Now, I can’t imagine a world of my work without it. As of the last year, I have been able to level up with the newest generation of hair bond repair. Epres has changed the game for me and my clients when going lighter with their hair color. I feel safe to push the limits with full security that my clients’ hair will be left in the best condition humanly possible after chemical services. I use it in my bleach, color, glosses, and as a treatment on every single client, especially in multiple-step color-correction sessions. The highly concentrated, waterless formula is made of just four vegan, biodegradable ingredients. My clients use the healthy hair shampoo, conditioner, and the at-home bond repair treatment as maintenance between visits with me! I can’t sing enough praises about my love for Epres, and would recommend this product to anyone who regularly colors their hair.

The product Matt Rez can’t live without.

How to Use:

Apply the product and leave it on for at least 10 minutes (you can even sleep in it).

Pour one concentrate vial into Epres™ spray bottle. Fill with water, attach sprayer and shake well. Spray a generous amount onto dry hair until fully saturated.

Spray onto dry, unwashed hair until fully saturated. Leave on at least 1 minutes then cleanse and style as usual.

Use 1-2 times a week for softer, stronger, healthier hair. After mixing, product can be used for up to two months.

Matt Rez at work.

Ready for Romance: How to Prep Head-to-Toe for Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day is often dismissed as "amateur night" by those too jaded to partake. But in a world of hopeless romantics, especially all over Los Angeles, this evening is a celebration of love in all its forms. Whether you’re wrapped in romantic bliss, celebrating Galentine’s Day, or simply pretending you’re “too busy,” one thing is certain: this night is a chance to feel and look your best. 

Despite the clichés of overpriced prix-fixe menus and last-minute plans, Valentine’s Day invites you to embrace connection. And while you may enjoy your own company, there’s something satisfying about ensuring you’re prepared for whatever the night brings. A kiss, after all, can lead to much more—preferably after a glass of the right vintage wine. Here’s my most blunt and honest head-to-toe guide to looking and feeling impeccable, whether you're enjoying a hot date or simply luxuriating in your own damn greatness.

The Top of the Head: Hair That’s Worthy of a Slow-Motion Entrance

Let’s talk hair. If you’ve got the time and resources, book yourself a blowout with the masters. Nick Flores at Flore Hair Salon is a magician, and Maxime Salvador at Salon by Maxime will transform your hair into something you could have only dreamed of. These professionals know their craft and won’t disappoint. If you’re DIY-ing it, hats off to you. Make sure you have plenty of Ibiza hairbrushes (because it’s practically sorcery for your hair) for proper tension—and I’m recommending you try the new T3 Aire IQ Blow Dryer, which uses smart heat technology to dry your hair quickly while keeping it healthy. Don’t forget an excellent hair mask such as my never-disappointing Shu Uemura Reset Mask (rinse with cold water for shine) for softening. Follow that with a stellar hair protectant like IGK Good Behavior Blowout Balm and a few drops of Davines Ol oil for added additional shine. 

The Mind: Confidence Starts Here

Next, it’s not just about looking fabulous; you need to feel fabulous. If you're preparing for a big date, take a moment to check in with your therapist or your brutally honest friend. Trust me, you’ll need all the confidence you can muster to deal with the potential emotional chaos of Valentine’s Day. Whether you’re dating or hanging out with your goop vibrator, owning your magnificence is key. Confidence is everything, and reminding yourself of your inherent awesomeness can set the tone for the night.

Face: Polish Like You Mean It

Exfoliation is non-negotiable. If you’ve been neglecting your face exfoliation, now’s the time to make up for it. Your face mask will absorb better if your skin is a smoother palette with less debris. I would start this regimen every few nights leading up to your date (no one better than you will know what your skin can handle). Lancer’s Face Polish is the heavy hitter for serious exfoliation, but if you’re looking for a gentler option, the Sisley Botanical Buff and Wash is a superb alternative. Don’t you dare come for me about St. Ives Apricot Scrub, either. Yes, the Internet’s been throwing shade at its granules, but let’s get super real: if you’re okay with microneedling and injecting Botox (which, by the way, is essentially botulism, but we still do it, don’t we?), you can survive a little St. Ives scrub, which gives the best glow of the three. After exfoliating, treat your skin to a clay mask to absorb impurities. Charlotte Tilbury’s Magic Clay Mask is super effective—it feels like your pores are being purified in a spa on a mountaintop. It’s also reasonably priced and not overhyped. You’ll want to make sure that you have no last-minute blemishes, so before you apply your moisturizer, use the Skin Gym High Frequency Wand to zap away impurities like a boss. If you are planning on Botox, book it a few days ahead of time to let it settle in properly. Dr. Jessica Wu is the queen of Botox and has a steady hand. She is my go-to for when I want a smoother visage (twice a year). 

Makeup

We can go overboard here, but you know what you love. Make sure you use the products that work well on you. I don’t know your face and don’t want to recommend finishes and colors that clash with your look. That said, on the 14th, use a primer with a little sheen like the Thrive Causmetics Brilliant Illuminating Primer. Fake Lashes: sorry but I don’t care what anyone says, no man or woman wants to wake up with someone shedding fake lashes and clumps in the morning. Knock it off, just go with a beautiful mascara like Pat McGrath’s Fetish Eyes. Leave the faking to your orgasm and ditch the lashes (I don’t care how much people say they look natural—they don’t, and they will just ruin your lashes long term. You don’t want to be 60 one day and have no eyelashes to speak of). 

Your Lips

They should, of course, be irresistibly soft because, truly, nothing enhances a smile quite like a supple pout. The secret to maintaining hydrated, kissable lips begins with hydration. (Duh.) Start your morning by infusing your warm lemon and water with a pinch of Celtic Sea Salt to add electrolytes Throughout the day, keep sipping on water enriched with electrolytes. This combination is key to keeping your face and lips plump and hydrated. But hydration alone isn't enough. To protect and nourish your lips, a good lip balm is essential. Apply it frequently during the day, and at night, incorporate a gentle exfoliation routine. Over the course of the day—whether from eating or wearing lipstick—fine, invisible debris can accumulate on your lips, making exfoliation crucial for smoothness. A few days before any special occasion, I recommend indulging in a luxurious ritual using Sara Happ's products. I start with The Lip Slip (a deeply moisturizing lip balm) and follow with her Pink Grapefruit The Lip Scrub. Apply and then gently buff your lips with a dry, clean, mouth-designated toothbrush. Rinse and finish with The Dream Slip before bed, or right before applying your lipstick to go out.

Brows: Treat Them Like Crowns

Your brows are the most important feature on your face, so make sure they are on point. Groom, shape, and perfect them until they’re worthy of a W cover. I prefer Kristie Streicher’s high-quality Essential Eyebrow Grooming Kit. It is well-made and lasts a very long time. 

Skin From the Neck Down: Smooth From Head to Toe (Literally)

Exfoliate your body properly. But here’s the deal —don’t overdo it. I detest all of the daily body brush skin rituals that have been overmarketed. Pass. Why do you need to dry out your skin and deplete it of necessary oils? But you should get a monthly Korean body scrub to keep your skin soft, smooth, and glowing. Pellequr in Beverly Hills does an amazing body scrub, followed by a heavenly lymphatic drainage massage that will have you feeling more than relaxed. If you don’t have time for the full scrub, their Body Wash Towel will do the trick fast for proper exfoliation. (Always add a high-quality body oil to your skin when damp in the shower.) Now, because it is Valentine’s Day, go extra. Get the Tom Ford Body Shimmer Soleil Neige (smells divine) Body Shimmer Oil for décolleté, arms, and even in the hair—yes, a small amount in your coif….trust!

Your Heart: Don’t Let It Do All the Thinking

Listen, Valentine’s Day is not just about feelings. Your heart is important, yes, but let’s not have it make all the decisions. Make sure your birth control game is on point—whether you’re dating or simply enjoying your own company. That said, all forms of protection are also important: no glove, no love, darling. If you’re being responsible, everything else will fall into place. Take your birth control like it’s your most valuable accessory. Your future self (and your current high, perky boobs) will thank you.

Nails

Sorry, but don’t go tacky tonight, and don’t be a fool for trends. Only red (dark or medium-red hues) or a featherlight pink will do. No cheap blue, neon orange, or Army green either. You want to express yourself, go knock yourself out in the eye shadow department, but keep it beautiful on your hands. You’re not an overstimulated 7th grader. We love Russian manicures of late, too—they’re neat, better on your cuticles, and makes your manicure last ridiculously longer. 

Grooming Down There: Keep It as Smooth as Possible, No Drama

If you’re having sex on V-day night, you want to be perfectly groomed. No ifs, ands, or butts! Simplicity is key. Skip the waxing drama (it’s a recipe for ingrown hairs and pimples—no, no, and no) and use the Ulike Laser as directed for smooth, long-lasting results. If you’re late to the laser hair removal game, a good razor will do for now—but make sure you use a proper shaving cream like Kiehl’s Brushless Shaving Cream.

Your Feet: Treat Them Like Royalty

Your feet deserve the same care as the rest of your body—they should be soft to the touch (not for anyone else but you, mind you). The Serum Doctor’s Foot File will smooth out any dead skin patches, and the foot serum is lovely, softening and hydrating without grease. Plus, you can slip your shoes on immediately after. 

Self-Tanner: Sun-Kissed Glow

You haven’t seen the sun since last summer, and it shows. I’m Iranian and don’t have that problem, but my pale-as-a-ghost friends love the Isle of Paradise Self-Tanning Drops. Mix them into your favorite face or body moisturizer, and you’ll have that subtle, sun-kissed glow with no streaks, no orange tint: just a natural, radiant look.

Milla Jovovich’s Beauty Journey—and the Lessons She’s Learned Along the Way

Courtesy of Milla Jovovich

Women and age, age and women—everyone has an opinion, and everyone has a suggestion. (Interestingly, it seems like the people with the most opinions aren’t even women. I get the most comments on my aging from men.) With all this new information available and the myriad products out there, there’s never been a better time to take care of one’s skin and body. The problem is, what actually works and what’s just another magical snake oil product—expensive, useless, and potentially harmful? Well, here I am to tell you the truth: I have no clue. But I am a total product whore, so I’ve tried almost everything out there (and messed up my skin on many occasions in the process)! So I’m going to briefly give you a few tips that have kept my skin in (mostly) great shape through the years.

This is the regimen I return to when I’ve tried too many new products and I wake up with red, dry skin and have to take a weeklong skincare break to recover:

First, a great cream cleanser. I love Glossier’s Milky Jelly Cleanser because it removes oily makeup so gently. It takes a minute to get used to, because it doesn’t strip your skin and you don’t feel squeaky-clean afterwards. Now, I’m not a young girl anymore, so my skin needs the extra moisture. And it definitely feels like my face is well-hydrated after using this cleanser.

If I’m on a film or photo shoot and the makeup has been piled on and powdered in for 12 hours, I double cleanse. One of my favorite cleansers to really make sure I get that squeaky-clean feeling, but I know it’s still gentle, is Dr. Melaxin’s Melting Cleanser. It’s wonderful.

Normally, I don’t like to wear a lot of makeup, so the Glossier does me just fine (an added benefit? It even washes away waterproof mascara). I then use a calming serum, like Biossance’s Rapid Plumping Serum. It feels amazing and I know it won’t irritate me. I sometimes layer that with the new Deinde Serum, which has a lot of anti aging ingredients, but is also calming and gentle. I love the Augustinus Bader Rich Cream as a great base for everything else. I also carry one of their travel samples in my makeup bag for a little pick-me-up mid day.

Now, onto makeup. When I was but a wee wisp of a girl, I used makeup like there was no tomorrow. I piled on eyeshadow in the colors of the rainbow, I loved powder blushes and face powder to keep the shine down. Everything back then was in powder form. Once I got to my late 30s, I realized that powder was definitely NOT my friend. It started creasing into my laugh lines. It would cake up after multiple reapplications in an evening. And in the end, it did not make me look gorgeous and glamorous. I felt like halfway through the night, I was already doing the 4 AM walk of shame, looking like a hot mess with powder in places I couldn’t fix on the go.

That made me switch my thinking. Back in the early aughts, there weren’t a bunch of new makeup brands with delicious, creamy products that gave the skin a dewy appearance like there are today. But I knew that cream was the answer for aging skin.

Because I worked with some of the greatest makeup artists in fashion history, I was taught a few tricks. For instance: I noticed some makeup artists using lipstick instead of powder blush. I immediately took that technique and never looked back. I found myself using lipstick as blush and lipstick as eyeshadow—it was the most amazing discovery that allowed my skin to move without creating those creases, which were so difficult to touch up after a few hours. Whether I knew it or not at the time, I’d also ignited an obsession with makeup that had multiple uses.

But the problem remained with foundation. It was still super thick and made my skin look cakey in real life. So I started diluting it with moisturizer. Immediately, I saw how much lighter the coverage was, and how much more I could control it! I would use a brush to apply unadulterated foundation around my nose, where I have redness—but by my eyes and cheeks, I would apply the lighter version with moisturizer. Boom, I knew I had discovered the secret to more beautiful, realistic results that immediately made me look fresh and natural while hiding the bits I needed to cover.

Cut to today. Now, cream-based makeup is more common than powder—and for good reason! Older women have never looked so gorgeous and glowy. Out went the powders, and now we’re allowing our skin to show through and shine! I’ve tried so many tinted moisturizers, but in the last few months, the one I keep going back to is the Supergoop Protect(tint). It’s got SPF 50, so I don’t need to apply an extra layer of sunblock.

I NEVER leave home without mascara because it’s a staple piece that can be used in so many ways. On the lashes, of course, to make your eyes pop and look more awake, but also in a pinch, I use a Q-tip and brush it over the mascara wand to apply at the base of my lashes for an instant smoky effect. It’s saved me on so many occasions when I’d forgotten my makeup bag—but I always carry a small satchel with my essentials.

For lips and cheeks, I love a handy, everything-stick: something I can use on my lips, eyes, and cheeks. For those who like a more subtle makeup look, these kinds of products work especially well. I adore the Ogee blush sticks, which come in some beautiful neutral shades that give the cheeks a sun-kissed glow. Additionally, this product works incredibly on the eyes when applied with the fingers.

On a personal note, I’ve always loved a classic red lip, so I use a wonderful, fuss-free brand called Merit Beauty. They have these gorgeous little pots that can multi task for eyes and lips called Flush Balm. They are truly adorable and so easy to apply.

There you have it: the contents of a tiny makeup bag filled with my history and beauty wisdom, along with a few products I’ve picked up along the way. It’s been an honor and a privilege, ladies! Enjoy! —M. Jovovich

Robin Black Has Serious History With This Red Lipstick

The renowned makeup artist shares the story behind her “crimson little secret.”

“Red is the great clarifier, bright and revealing. I can't imagine becoming bored with red, it would be like becoming bored with the person you love.” —Diana Vreeland

“Red is associated with passion because it is the color of fire. Those who take this seriously need to be reminded there is such a thing as arson.” ―Fran Lebowitz

~

It was 1994: I stubbed out my cigarette (a newly acquired and very short-lived habit) before sauntering into Barneys. Usually, I just wandered around, admiring all the avant-garde fashion that I couldn’t possibly afford. But on that particular day, I was on a mission—the kind of mission that feels extra important when you are only 19 and just arrived in New York.

And then I saw it. Sitting on the counter was a small black display with 12 glorious bullets of color in rectangular black tubes. It looked powerful and modern, different from all the ladylike, classic packaging that ruled the upscale cosmetic departments in those years. I had seen it in Linda Wells’s Allure Magazine ("the bible," as the beauty-savvy referred to it,) but it looked even more delicious in person.

“One tube of the NARS Jungle Red please,” I said to the sales woman. 

“Would you like to try it on first?” she replied. 

“No. It’s the right red for me.” I said, imagining that I sounded like the type of sophisticate who had loads of luxurious red lipsticks tossed on her vanity in the Upper East Side. (Never mind that I was, in fact, subletting a room in a tenement building in the Bowery that didn’t even have a proper mirror.)

From behind the counter, the associate smiled at my bare-faced, wildly unjustified, youthful confidence—but she kindly made a big fuss over wrapping my treasure in tissue before placing it carefully inside the coveted Barneys bag. I couldn’t resist browsing slowly through the rest of the store, bag casually swinging from my arm, proud that I had just bought THE statement lip of my dreams. Even if it did mean skipping a few meals to fit into my very limited budget.

This might sound like a trite little tale about a young woman who was searching for a visual way to express her newly found adulthood, and it is. But it's also true that the perfect shade of red lipstick can change your life.

Thirty years later, I still saunter but I don't smoke, and my passion for a statement red lip remains. NARS Jungle Red is my go-to anytime I want to feel fabulous, or command attention in a meeting, or need a little boost of motivation, if I'm hiding a horrible case of jet lag, or sometimes it's a bit of armor for the days I feel sad or angry. Over the years, I've moved from red to red, and I can identify what year of my life it was by which brand/shade I was wearing at the time. (For those of you who are curious, I've been absolutely hooked on the Sisley Paris Phyto-Twist Matte in #18 for ages.) But NARS stands out as a forever favorite, and I’m happy to share my crimson little secret with you all.

Why Holi(mane) Is the Ultimate Collagen for Skin, Hair, and Nails

Ah, collagen. Remember when everyone and their dog jumped on the collagen bandwagon during the pandemic, hawking every “miracle powder” under the sun? Fast forward to 2024, and we’re all left swimming in a sea of overpriced, underwhelming products that barely do more than lighten your wallet. But one collagen powder has never let me down: holi(mane) by Agent Nateur—the crème de la crème, standing tall above the rest.

Why should you even care about collagen? Collagen is the cornerstone of your body’s foundation; it’s what keeps everything firm, flexible, and functioning as it should be. From your skin to your joints to your hair, it’s the “glue” that holds you together. But here’s the catch: as we age, our collagen production naturally slows down. Stress, smoking, drinking (life) all chip away at your collagen reserves, leaving skin with less elasticity than a vintage Courrèges gown that’s lost its structure. So, no, it’s not just about vanity—it’s about preserving that youthful, vibrant skin, strong nails, and shiny, full hair. Without enough collagen, things start to sag, crack, and lose their glow.

Now, let’s talk about why collagen creams aren’t the answer. I interviewed a top scientist last year who made it perfectly clear: collagen creams don’t do much for your skin. Why? Because the molecules in collagen creams are too large to penetrate the skin. As she so gracefully put it, “You’re just creating a petri dish on your face.” So, if you’re relying on that $500 jar of collagen-infused goo, you might want to rethink your strategy.

What works for me is holi(mane) and I have been using it for many years now. For the record, not all collagen is created equal—and frankly, most of what’s out there doesn’t even come close to cutting it. Holi(mane) is wild-caught marine collagen sourced from the scales and bones of cod, pollock, and haddock; pure, potent, and absorbs exceptionally well. It’s third-party tested for mercury, so you know it’s safe. This isn’t the diluted, mass-produced powder you’ll find being peddled by influencers who don’t even use the product. Holi(mane) works at the cellular level, helping to restore your skin’s strength and elasticity. And the cherry on top? It also contains pearl powder, a potent ingredient revered in Chinese medicine for over 1,000 years for its skin-healing properties.

Together, marine collagen and pearl powder elevate your body’s production of glutathione and superoxide dismutase (that’s scientific jargon that basically means your body’s natural defenders against the signs of aging).

Let’s be honest: after all is said and done, the proof is in the results. Or more precisely, in the way your skin, hair, and nails look when you indulge in this modern elixir versus when you don’t. The difference for me is so undeniable, I can’t recommend it enough. If you haven’t embraced this nourishing ritual yet, maybe it’s time to consider how much more radiant and resilient your skin can be.

Why You Need This Gentle Exfoliant for Winter

Winter convinces you that exfoliating is optional, as if your skin will simply "hibernate" until spring (spoiler alert, it won’t). Between the arid, furnace-like indoor heat and the biting, face-numbing winds outside, your skin ends up an unwilling magnet for dead cells, dirt, and moisture-stealing humectants. So, no, exfoliation isn’t a luxury—it’s an essential. Enter Sisley Buff and Face Wash; or, as it’s elegantly known, Gel Nettoyant Gommant (because why settle for basic when you could indulge in something that sounds like it belongs in a Parisian apothecary?). This refined gel is so gentle, you can use it morning or night without feeling like your face has been scrubbed by sandpaper. Infused with plant extracts like lemon, verbena, and lavender, it’s a botanical symphony that invigorates, refreshes, and leaves your skin feeling deeply nourished. Yes, it’s an investment, but your skin deserves the kind of luxury that makes you feel like you’ve just stepped out of a five-star spa, even if the rest of you is still bundled up in a turtleneck.

Botanicals, Balm, and a Better Face: The Art of the Nightly Massage

I get an endless stream of texts and DMs asking about the latest face tool or LED therapy device (and, for the record, the only one that truly works is Celluma—no, I don’t care what else is trending). But here's the thing people often miss: a good face massage before bed is one of the best things you can do for your skin. It boosts circulation, helps blood flow, and encourages your face to glow from within. When I’m not busy testing the latest products (which, let’s face it, is basically a 24/7 job), one of my go-to products for this nightly ritual is Monastery’s Floral Attar Concentrate Balm. Why? Because it’s all-natural, and, honestly, I often skip a serum altogether and use this as my everything balm. Packed with soothing botanicals like rose hip, rose extract, and jasmine sambac, it floods the skin with essential fatty acids and vitamins A, B, C, and E, while hazelnut oil adds a mild astringent effect. It melts into the skin seamlessly, leaving your face feeling repaired and glowing by morning—no tools required. And if you’re thinking, "Do I really need to massage my face before bed?" …Well, let’s just say you can keep ignoring it, and I’ll keep looking younger.

Molly R. Stern on the Life Lessons (and Self-Care Products) That Got Her Through 2024

As the (beloved) go-to makeup artist for Reese Witherspoon, Maya Rudolph, Greta Gerwig, and many more, Molly R. Stern knows a thing or two about celebrating a big year. Even when it’s one of the toughest of her life.

With 2024 coming to a close, I wanted to share some of my favorite “must-haves” that got me through the year.  I have had an incredibly transitional 12 months, starting with separating from my husband of 20 years and moving from and selling the only home I have ever owned. After 17 years of living in the same place, the process of shedding the things I’d been shoving in every corner made me feel incredibly vulnerable—but was also so liberating. I had lived alone before getting married a few times, but was always wanting…wanting to find love, wanting to have kids, I was always sort of waiting for my family life to begin. Now, I have the opportunity to live on my own, in my new, unique space. And feeling ‘whole' this time is deep and very fulfilling. 

Another major milestone: I sent two of my three kids off to college. I know that sending children out to explore the world is part of the gig as parents—if we do our job right, we are raising the loves of our life to leave us. But whoa, I was not expecting the feeling of loss that washed over me. It’s been amazing to see them flourish, and to transition to having adult children. They continue to be the greatest humans I know. But when it did happen, it all went too fast…I had been warned, but it’s truly a blink.  

Then, in a shocking turn of events, I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in June. After the initial shock subsided, I was actually relieved.  I had been suffering for close to a year with many symptoms that were starting to feel debilitating. It felt good to know that I wasn’t insane, and that the messages my body were sending me were real. It’s been a process to get my medicine right and find my groove again. But I am so grateful to modern medicine, and the fact that I now am confident that I can live well with this new reality.  

This year, my personal mantra to ‘LOVE YOURSELF’ was put to the test. Re-engaging with myself in such a deep way was both terrifying and profound.  I realized that, with the help of my loving family, dedicated friends, loyal work community and yes, my self-care gadgets and products, I absolutely have the ability to heal my heart and my body.  It is incredibly empowering to take the reins of self-care and redirect my habits and priorities. I am truly walking into this new year hopeful and excited. I get this optimism from my amazing genetic makeup, which has the bones of Holocaust survivors, cancer survivors, family and friends with perfect comedic timing. And of course, by leading with LOVE and GRATITUDE. 

Here are my LOVE yourself ‘NEW BEGINNINGS’ Must-Haves:

A great, old-fashioned planner

This is a great way to visualize your month and decide when you will meet with friends, exercise and rest. Scheduling to boost dopamine is a must.  

The Choice by Dr. Edith Edger

This memoir is both harrowing and inspiring beyond belief. Dr. Edger describes her experience as a young woman in Auschwitz—how she survived, and then fearlessly found the capacity to choose joy in her life. I could not put the book down. 

Retrouvé Balancing Face Oil

This perfectly absorbent, deeply hydrating face oil is perfect for anyone dealing with complexion dryness. It makes the skin feel like silk. I love it at night, and in the morning, depending what my skin needs. It soaks in and wears beautifully under makeup.

Jillian Dempsey Gold Bar

This turbo tool vibrates and energizes the skin while boosting blood flow. I use it on every single one of my clients. The smoothing, sculpting results are instantaneous. 

The Higher Dose Infrared PEMF Go Mat

This energy-boosting holistic recovery mat is amazing for on-the-go relief anywhere, anytime.

Boxing Classes at Box Union ( for my L.A. folks!)

Learning of my diagnosis came as quite a shock, but understanding that there were multiple ways to slow the progression was a huge relief. Exercise is a clinically proven way to diminish symptoms of brain fog, loss of balance and coordination (as well as boost morale like nothing else). All of these symptoms can rear their heads and ramp up during menopause and age, even without the actual cherry-on-top diagnosis. Boxing has been a lifeline for me. It’s fun, makes me feel strong and promotes a release of neurotrophic factors which are important for the entire nervous system. 

The Beautiful Chorus Choir

This musical group’s album, Mantras of Love, is a gorgeous, affirmative listen. It’s ideal for meditating, drifting off to sleep, or singing at the top of your lungs while sitting in traffic on the 405.

VioletteFr Bisou Balm

I have always been and continue to be obsessed with finding the perfect lip. And these matte, colorful, just-bitten balms might just be it. They come in a great shade range and feel glorious upon application. I have them in every color, and they are perfect to slip into my clients’ bag for their night out.

The Red Carpet Facial That Glows All Week, Courtesy of Candace Marino

Even with the holiday season descending upon us, the most prominent time of year for Angelenos to celebrate is the start of Oscar season. Still, whether you’re hosting a family gathering or making an entrance at a premiere, a luminous and vibrant complexion is always your best accessory. 

For red carpet events or any upcoming special event, I have to recommend Candace Marino as one of the top aestheticians—her particular delivery of the iS Clinical Red Carpet facial is one of the best. Why? Because she is ahead of the curve when it comes to new and innovative products and machines; she knows how to cut through the b.s.; and when you are in her facial seat, she focuses on your skin, and how to have it look remarkable for not just that special event, but long-term. (Did I mention she also doesn’t talk your ear off and she doesn’t push her products on you? That is a major plus).  

Her version of the isClinical facial that brings red carpet radiance begins with the Cleansing Complex, a gentle resurfacing cleanser that sweeps away the remnants of last night’s indulgences. Next, the Warming Honey Cleanser offers a touch of luxury with its green tea infusion, purifying your skin while you contemplate the content for your acceptance speech (or, for us normal folk, fielding cooking for your dinner party all day). The centerpiece is the Hydra Intensive Cooling Mask, which delivers deep hydration worthy of any red carpet entrance (even Nicole Kidman would be proud). Throughout the facial, Candace’s expert massage promotes circulation, ensuring your skin radiates vibrancy.

Candace then incorporates the iS Clinical Pro Heal Serum—a soothing, vitamin-infused elixir—and the Youth Eye Complex, which works miracles on puffy under-eyes, all while she employs techniques that feel like a backstage pass to a rejuvenating spa experience. The Hydra Cool Serum, boasting menthol and hyaluronic acid, adds the final touch of hydration before a layer of Reparative Moisturizing Emulsion and the Extreme Protect Sunscreen (one of the absolute best sunscreens—light and non-greasy, just the way we like it).

Of course, Candace also integrates into the facial some red light therapy time  (she uses Celluma, which I have said over and over is the best and most effective, not made by the same lab in China as the rest, and not white-labeled or misleading either), tailoring each treatment to your skin's specific needs.

I’ve sung and written Candace’s praises endlessly, because her facials deliver results that speak for themselves. Whether you’re battling inflammation, acne, or dryness, she’s the one who will have your skin looking its best for your special event. And let’s not overlook her business acumen; her office is a happy place, and she knows that her exceptional skills will keep clients coming back without pushing unnecessary products.

Whether you’re headlining a premiere, or simply want to ensure you look flawless for holiday photos, I wholeheartedly recommend Candace Marino’s facials. To learn more, click here.

Pureology Hydrate Shampoo Is the Unassuming Hero Your Hair Deserves

Why do I adore this shampoo? Simple: because it works. For $37, you get the softest, silkiest hair with zero drama or gimmicks. It's sulfate-free, paraben-free, vegan, and wrapped in sustainably chic packaging, so you can also feel superior while you wash your hair. Unlike most hydrating shampoos that leave you with limp strands, Pureology actually delivers—especially if you're a frequent flier in the world of highlights, blow dryers, or flat irons. It's effective, and your time is far too valuable for anything less. Shop Pureology’s Hydrate Shampoo here.

My New Secret Weapon: Glutathione Spray for Health, Skin & Hangovers

Wellness trends with no substance are a special kind of torture—yet I’m convinced many folks are just one viral TikTok video away from thinking they’ve found the next miracle cure. Call me old-fashioned, but I like my wellness backed by actual science, not social media hype. And here’s something that is science-backed: glutathione. Your body makes this powerful antioxidant naturally, but as you age, production slows down. (Lucky us, right?) But glutathione does wonders for our health—especially when it comes to balancing oxidative stress and flushing out toxins in your liver (yes, that liver again. The one we always blame for melasma…more on that later).

Now, you’ve probably heard of a few ways to take glutathione: intravenous drips, patches (which doesn’t absorb well in the body), and a variety of other options. But let me introduce you to something much easier and more effective: Glutaryl Antioxidant Glutathione Spray from Auro Wellness. Developed by Dr. Nayan Patel, one of the most respected compounders in the country, this spray is as potent as it gets. You simply spritz it on twice a day, morning and night, and the highly absorbent formula gets to work. A few things to note: yes, it has a sulfuric scent (don’t freak out, it fades in about 30 seconds), and the best place to apply it is on an area with little to no hair, like your stomach. This ensures maximum absorption).

What’s in it for you? For starters, if you’re dealing with melasma or dark spots, this spray will help detoxify your liver, which in turn can improve your skin. Oh, and for those times when you overdid it at happy hour, this spray is a game-changer for hangovers. A quick four spritzes after a night of drinking helps flush the alcohol toxins out of your body faster and more efficiently than that greasy diner breakfast you swear will save you. The next time you’re tempted to follow the latest TikTok trend, remember there’s real science behind this, and it works. To shop the product and learn more, click here.

Jill Kargman’s Signature Scent That Never Fails to Impress

“Ma’am, I’m so sorry to bother you—but, um, can I ask what perfume you’re wearing?”

Not once, not twice, but dozens of times, dudes on the subway have asked me this question. We’ll both be rush hour strap-hangers, my spritzed-wrist exposed in a sea of squished humanity, and my flowery scent will waft over, happy eclipsing multiple commuters’ nostril-tormenting combo of noxious halitosis, B.O., and street-meat lunches. I always answer, “Jo Malone Red Roses,” prompting iPhone memos and, at times, vows to go buy a bottle for their girlfriends. 

When Hannibal Lecter is hiding in Florence, lurking in a famed perfumery, FBI analysts bring evidence to a trio of celebrated “noses,” who harness their olfactory expertise to discern the bespoke layers with various top notes and nuanced combinations. That may sound very chic, but I don’t need some complicated potpourri including ambergris, whatever that is. My philosophy has always been: do a common thing uncommonly well. (Which is why I’d rather eat the most kick-ass grilled cheese rather than a Michelin three-star razor clam with celeriac foam and scallop jizz. Keep it simple.) Jo Malone does rose in its purest, most untouched form, and I can’t get enough of it in perfume version. There’s a reason people say stop and smell the roses: they’re fucking amazing. As the ‘80s Froot Loops cereal mascot Toucan Sam chirps, follow your nose. It always knows.

The O Shot: How a Revolutionary Procedure Can Reawaken Orgasms

During a girlfriend’s recent birthday lunch, the topic of aging came up. The group, which was comprised of successful women mostly in their forties, remarked on the many positives of being the age we are. We unanimously agreed that today, we are way more comfortable with our bodies, our selves, and our sexuality than we ever were in our twenties—or our thirties, for that matter. It seems experience, and both the good and the bad in life, have given us tools to stand steadfast in who we are and what we want. 

But life is also filled with trade-offs. Naturally, this lunchtime conversation turned to the other side, and we did discuss some things we missed from our carefree twenties. We never needed any set hours of sleep to look great back then, for instance (let alone function). We also now have a codependent relationship with the hair salon, as we don’t have the liberty to come and go only when in need of a haircut; we touch up the grays every six weeks. And how about the subject of sex now vs. at, say, 27?  Someone at the table had to remind us about the explosive orgasms we use to get (remember those? The ones that caused your eyes to roll to the back of your head?). But they are long gone. We all agreed, and then we laughed and laughed. Until we didn’t. Dead silence. The change in sexual desire is simply due to age. It’s inevitable—but does it have to be? 

Let’s escape this lunch scene and dissect the notion for a second. Hormones are a doozy on a woman’s body, yes. Estrogen fluctuations after having kids, being perimenopausal or carrying the stress of being a successful woman in your forties wears on the body, no matter how much you meditate, do kegels or do yoga. Is this the kind of sex life so many will have in their forties and beyond? Just decades of half-assed orgasms? 

Later, I was looking through emails when I found a pitch from Dr. Usha Rajagopal, the San Francisco plastic surgeon who is gaining traction for a procedure that “heightens and reclaims your orgasm.” It’s called the O-Shot. This procedure has been out for several years, with various doctors having more or less their own version. I researched her background, and she is reputable as well as esteemed (25 years of experience, a trainer and speaker at national plastic surgery conferences, and medical director of San Francisco Plastic Surgery and Laser Center, where they have a one-of-a-kind “V Suite” for vaginal rejuvenation. The O-Shot is, for the most part, a one-and-done procedure that involves a fine medley of PRP technology, plus a syringe that is—brace yourselves—inserted directly into your clitoris. Of course, the vaginal area is numbed (that part of the procedure might have hurt the most. But since the O-Shot promised to deliver the orgasms of yesteryear, I thought it might be well worth the discomfort). This is a procedure I can wholeheartedly recommend for any woman wanting to reclaim what was once hers—her orgasm.

I say this as a beauty editor: sex and a great orgasm can do more for your skin, confidence, and overall well-being than any $800 face cream. That being said, the O-Shot costs around $1500. If you can afford it, don’t feel ashamed—make the appointment! There should never be a feeling of shame surrounding reclaiming something that will help your body and mind. If it helps to put things in a logical perspective, research says that when you spend your money on experiences vs. material possessions, it leads to greater happiness. I will only say that, in my experience, this procedure yields happiness in multiples—just like your future orgasms.

Unlocking the Beauty Benefits of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy

I’m a very strong proponent of the use of hyperbaric oxygen chambers. I believe this therapeutic modality might just be the closest thing we have to turning back the clock. Long favored by professional athletes, billionaire biohackers with too much time on their hands, and celebrities who are often under the scrutiny of the public eye, HBOT (hyperbaric oxygen therapy) is fairly simple as a treatment. You lie down in a capsule not unlike a tanning bed, where concentrated doses of oxygen are absorbed by your body. HBOT is superb for cellular regeneration, muscle repair, enhanced cognitive function/brain health, increased energy, and immune support. 

Now, what do I personally love about it? Let’s get real—the vanity factor, of course, because hyperbaric oxygen therapy benefits your skin and hair. The potent oxygen your body receives enhances circulation, promoting tissue repair and revitalization, resulting in a beautiful glow for your complexion. This oxygen can provide support for healthy hair follicle growth and vitality. By infusing your complexion and hair with oxygen while boosting collagen production, HBOT improves elasticity for your skin, delivering a youthful appearance that more than rivals what any topical cream can pull off. Each session runs anywhere from thirty minutes to one hour.

So, let’s get practical. How often should you indulge in HBOT? According to Dr. Mayur Patel, a notable pharmacist turned HBOT advocate and the president of OxyHealth (a leading provider of hyperbarics), it all depends on your goals. For general wellness, most providers recommend two to three sessions per week. If skin rejuvenation is your focus, aim for three sessions weekly. For injuries or medical conditions, daily sessions may be necessary for several weeks. For pre- and post-care practices, Patel suggests staying hydrated, wearing comfortable clothing, and avoiding perfume and lotion before your session. “During your session, focus on deep, steady breaths to enhance oxygen absorption, and afterward, hydrate again, engage in light movement, and enjoy a nutritious snack to aid your recovery,” he says.

As for where to experience this beneficial oxygen therapy, there are several reputable wellness centers around Los Angeles and New York City (if you live outside these self-centered zones, well, Google is your friend). I’ve enjoyed using Remedy Place in L.A.—it's clean, cutting-edge, the chambers are top-notch, and it's never crowded, so you don’t have to talk to anyone. 

As wonderful as HBOT is, no one said it was cheap. Sessions typically cost anywhere from $100 to $600. That said, my recommendation is that, if you fall in love with the experience and want to incorporate it into your lifestyle, consider renting a chamber or renting to own. OxyHealth offers a range of options, from portable soft-shell to robust hard-shell models, with prices between $9,000 and $50,000. Remedy Place also sells chambers starting around $50,000. 

A hyperbaric oxygen chamber.

Dr. Patel emphasizes that if you go this route, it is important to choose a chamber with FDA 510(k) clearance for safety. While soft-shell models are suitable for home use, hard-shell chambers are generally reserved for clinical settings. He also notes, “When comparing chambers, think about quality and longevity—high-quality models can last 10 to 15 years, making them a worthwhile investment in your health and beauty.”

If you take your health seriously, you’ll understand that hyperbaric oxygen therapy is a potent tool for rejuvenation as well as beauty. Whether you’re tackling specific health issues or simply seeking to combat the effects of aging, I believe this therapy can significantly enhance your body’s natural repair abilities. And remember, always consult a qualified healthcare provider to tailor the experience to your needs.