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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

The Skin Gym High-Frequency Wand: Your New BFF for Breakouts and Blemish Control

We’ve all faced this harrowing scenario: an important event is looming, and suddenly, a pimple decides to make an unwelcome appearance day-of. Even if breakouts aren't your usual issue, finding a quick solution can be challenging when it comes to breakouts, especially if you're away from your trusted aesthetician. Enter the Skin Gym High-Frequency Wand, an essential at-home face tool that I know will become your go-to for blemish control.

This tool works by targeting those pesky pimples with electric currents that eliminate bacteria within the blemish. To incorporate the device into your skincare routine, start with cleansing, exfoliating, and masking—or, if you’re short on time, just make sure skin is properly cleansed. Then, place a piece of gauze over the blemish and adjust the wand to your preferred strength. Gently move the glass head of the tool over the area for about a minute. If you’re using the HFW for general skin maintenance to prevent bacteria buildup and not a single blemish, you can roll it over your entire face (with the gauze still in place) for about a minute. Depending on your skin’s response, you will normally see improvement in a day or a few days. How often should you use it? Well, if I have a blemish that pops up a few days before an event, I use the tool morning and night until the day of the party arrives. Even if the pimple isn’t completely gone, the HFW is excellent at minimizing it—or speeding up its departure. The Skin Gym High-Frequency Wand comes in three different zapper sizes to go over the complexion (one is designed to fit the overall contour of your face, while one is smaller, and specifically pinpoints the exact blemish. There’s even another circular-shaped attachment for larger surface areas). All in all, it’s a high-quality, straightforward tool that gives excellent results.

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The Sublime Pink Lipstick That Will Elevate Your Every Look

I cover a lot of lipstick shades. And I can joyfully report that I’ve found the most glorious pigment, one which oozes sophistication: Sisley Phyto Rouge lipstick in the color Rose Delhi. This deep, vibrant pink is flattering on many skin tones; it’s got refined elegance and unapologetic sexiness all at once. I love this product’s long-lasting hydration and wearability, thanks to Sisley’s Hydrobooster complex, which also plumps the lips. No matter the season or occasion—whether you’re heading to a summer soirée or a snowy dinner —I guarantee this lipstick seamlessly adapts to any event (even with jeans and a T-shirt, my friends). I urge you to embrace the power of this sure-to-be-a-mainstay lipstick. The only element you need to add to enhance this look is the confidence you know you already bring to the table.

The Super-charged Serum That Makes All the Difference

What do the savvy and attractive inhabitants of Miami, L.A., and New York all share? The ability to dial up master aesthetician Iván Pol at any time—that is, if they can get a spot on the list for his famed Beauty Sandwich facial, which has found fans in the likes of Emma Stone and Salma Hayek. Pol has been the global go-to for years, prepping major socialites and celebrities alike with his special radio frequency method. His approach has the power to truly transform your skin. Without the usual peeling, pricking or popping you might experience in another facialist’s chair, Pol’s hands work their magic. His method calls for only the best ingredients to wake the skin up and have it glow continuously throughout the day. Last year, he debuted a serum called SS02 Snatching Sauce, and it’s really incredible. The Kalahari melon included in this formulation is the hero here. It reduces puffiness, smooths, and hydrates. It also has a beautiful brightening effect. I use this product often: alone, without a moisturizer, whatever. I often think facialists know more than derms because they work on the skin daily—they know, they see results, they touch the face. I trust Pol, and after much field testing, I trust his products, too.

Shu Uemura’s Hair Mask Brings Life to Damaged Locks

Achieving an effortless hair look can seem like a pipe dream—at least, in my experience. When I was younger, I watched countless commercials for hair products that featured women tossing their shining, flaxen locks into the camera. And I believed that beautiful hair could be very easily attained, using the right products. But reality hit hard when I grew up and realized those women had a team preparing, drying, and volumizing their hair behind the scenes (thank you, Finesse and Flex). That said, if your haircare routine involves color treatments, highlights, blowouts, and very hot styling tools, you know it takes a lot of work for your hair to look good. You also know how crucial it is to use top-quality hair products to maintain silky, soft, and, more importantly, healthy hair. I’ve always prioritized shiny and manageable hair, but a few years ago, I began noticing that my once silky mane felt as coarse as a kitchen broom. It was perplexing: I always used the best products, rich with protein—a component I thought was beneficial for my hair.  My colorist identified the issue: I was using too many protein-rich products. He recommended switching to more hydrating options and reducing the bond-builders that were once so popular.

He introduced me to two of Shu Uemura's hair masks. One was a hydrating mask for regular use, and the other was a weekly treatment called the Ultimate Reset Hair Mask. This product not only hydrates, it also repairs, thanks to its key ingredient: rice extract sourced from Japan. After the first application, my hair felt revitalized, like it had received an injection of hydration. I apply this mask once a week, leaving it on for just five minutes (though you can leave it longer for even better-looking locks). Despite the $73 price tag per jar—which may seem steep—is about the cost of a single blowout. Prioritizing healthy hair over frequent blowouts is a clear choice for me, and the Shu Uemura Ultimate Reset Hair Mask has become an essential part of my hair routine. Lastly, a personal tip: rotate your hair products every few months to prevent your strands from becoming too accustomed to one product.

The AmazingConcealer Is More Than A Stellar Lid Base that Lives Up to Its Name

Are you looking to elevate your eye makeup game?

Whether you love a striking smokey eye or love blending two or three of favorite eye shades together, a reliable lid base is a must-have. It's the secret sauce to keeping your eye makeup flawless all day long, without any creasing or smudging throughout the day or night. My go-to lid base is the water-resistant concealer from Amazing Cosmetics rightly called AmazingConcealer. It's not just a game-changer for creating a flawless canvas; I also love wearing it solo on low-key days on my eye lids. It creates a smoother eyelid look vs having bare lids and now I won’t use anything else. Consider it a makeup essential that stretches a long way with just a dab.

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