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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