

Fenty Favs Fever: The Top 10 Beauty And Skin Products You Need In Your Bag
Rihanna has been a game-changer in the beauty industry with the launch of Fenty Beauty and Fenty Skin. For me, this impact has been nothing short of transformational and, let's be real, a bit of a splurge. I mean, it's no accident that I've achieved the coveted ROUGE Status at Sephora for another year, thanks to my obsession with all things Fenty. But when it comes to beauty perfection, who's counting the cost?
Fenty Beauty and Fenty Skin have evolved from mere products in my routine to absolute must-haves. From the iconic lip gloss that's a staple in every girl's purse to the skincare saviors that have my skin looking the best it has in YEARS, Fenty has everything I need. I've even nailed down a quick and easy 10-minute everyday makeup look using only Fenty Beauty products. It's my secret weapon for looking effortlessly chic, no matter what life throws at me.
So, I'm here to spill the tea (and maybe start a few beauty addictions in the process) with a curated list of the best Fenty Beauty and Fenty Skin products that I can't get enough of. These are the holy grail favorites that I reach for day in and day out.
Fenty Beauty Best Products 2023
1. Fenty Skin Butta Drop Whipped Oil Body Cream with Tropical Oils + Shea Butter
When it comes to body care, the Butta Drop Whipped Oil Body Cream with Tropical Oils + Shea Butter is a must-have. This oil-infused body cream is incredibly hydrating and retails for $44, with a $39 refill option. You can also get this in other scents, including a Shimmering Warm Cinnamon and Shimmering Vanilla Dream. Trust me, you'll want to keep this in your basket on repeat. The mini trio set is currently retailing for $59 on their website.
2. Fenty Beauty Cherry Treat Conditioning + Strengthening Lip Oil
Fenty Beauty
Say goodbye to dry, chapped lips with the Cherry Treat Conditioning + Strengthening Lip Oil. Priced at $24, this lip oil is a game-changer for anyone looking to achieve soft, luscious lips. It provides intense hydration and moisturization, leaving your lips feeling smooth and supple. Plus, its glossy finish makes it perfect for creating a no-fuss, everyday look when you're in a hurry.
3. Fenty Beauty Killawatt Freestyle Highlighter
Next up is the Killawatt Freestyle Highlighter, retailing for $40. I absolutely adore the Trophy Wife shade – it's the perfect addition to any makeup look. My favorite hack? Applying it to my chest and shoulders for an extra pop when I'm showing off my amazing cleavage in a low-cut outfit.
4. Fenty Beauty Gloss Bomb Universal Lip Luminizer
For the perfect lip gloss, look no further than the Gloss Bomb Universal Lip Luminizer, priced between $21 and $26. It's available in various versions, including Heat and Cream, and offers a thick yet not super sticky formula. The range of color shades and tints is also a major plus.
5. Fenty Beauty Match Stix Shimmer Skinstick
Fenty Beauty
The Match Stix Shimmer Skinstick, retailing for $32, is my special secret weapon. This versatile product can be used as a light highlighter or eyeshadow or even applied to the inner corners of your eyes and cupid's bow for a pop of shimmer.
6. Fenty Skin Cherry Dub Superfine Daily Cleansing Face Scrub
The Cherry Dub Superfine Daily Cleansing Face Scrub, priced at $28, is the perfect gentle exfoliator for those with sensitive skin or anyone experiencing peeling around the nose and above the lip during seasonal changes.
7. Fenty Skin Blemish Defeat'r BHA Spot-Targeting Gel
The Blemish Defeat'r BHA Spot-Targeting Gel is one of Rihanna's newest products, and it's quickly become a favorite of mine. At $22, it's perfect for tackling those random breakouts without worrying about your makeup peeling or moving.
8. Fenty Beauty Pro Filt'r Instant Retouch Setting Powder
The Pro Filt'r Instant Retouch Setting Powder is another essential, priced at $36. This powder provides a beautiful blurring effect while keeping your makeup in place all day long.
9. Fenty Eau de Parfum
Fenty Beauty
If you're looking for a new fragrance, the Fenty Eau de Parfum is a must-try. It's priced at $140, with a $95 travel set option. While opinions on the scent may vary, I personally love it and have received many compliments while wearing it. The travel-sized bottle is also a cute addition. The full-size and one-refill duo set is currently retailing for $155 on their website.
10. Fenty Beauty Hella Thicc Volumizing Mascara
For voluminous lashes that make a statement, the Hella Thicc Volumizing Mascara is a must-have. Priced at $19, this mascara will transform your lashes from barely there to bold and beautiful in just a few seconds.
Rihanna has truly set a new standard for inclusivity and diversity in the beauty industry, making other brands step up their game. With Fenty Beauty, she shook things up by offering an extensive range of foundation shades that catered to every skin tone, challenging the industry's historical lack of representation. This not only earned her brand a devoted following but also ignited a much-needed conversation about inclusivity in beauty.
As a result, other brands have taken note, broadening their shade ranges and reevaluating their product development strategies. Rihanna's influence extends beyond Fenty Beauty, as she continues to challenge the status quo and push boundaries with Fenty Skin. Her dedication to creating high-quality, inclusive products has raised the bar for celebrity beauty brands, proving that with the right vision and values, they can be more than just a celebrity endorsement.
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Feature image by Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for Fenty Beauty by Rihanna
Exclusive: Gabrielle Union On Radical Transparency, Being Diagnosed With Perimenopause And Embracing What’s Next
Whenever Gabrielle Union graces the movie screen, she immediately commands attention. From her unforgettable scenes in films like Bring It On and Two Can Play That Game to her most recent film, in which she stars and produces Netflix’s The Perfect Find, there’s no denying that she is that girl.
Off-screen, she uses that power for good by sharing her trials and tribulations with other women in hopes of helping those who may be going through the same things or preventing them from experiencing them altogether. Recently, the Flawless by Gabrielle Union founder partnered with Clearblue to speak at the launch of their Menopause Stage Indicator, where she also shared her experience with being perimenopausal.
In a xoNecoleexclusive, the iconic actress opens up about embracing this season of her life, new projects, and overall being a “bad motherfucker.” Gabrielle reveals that she was 37 years old when she was diagnosed with perimenopause and is still going through it at 51 years old. Mayo Clinic says perimenopause “refers to the time during which your body makes the natural transition to menopause, marking the end of the reproductive years.”
“I haven't crossed over the next phase just yet, but I think part of it is when you hear any form of menopause, you automatically think of your mother or grandmother. It feels like an old-person thing, but for me, I was 37 and like not understanding what that really meant for me. And I don't think we focus so much on the word menopause without understanding that perimenopause is just the time before menopause,” she tells us.
Gabrielle Union
Photo by Brian Thomas
"But you can experience a lot of the same things during that period that people talk about, that they experienced during menopause. So you could get a hot flash, you could get the weight gain, the hair loss, depression, anxiety, like all of it, mental health challenges, all of that can come, you know, at any stage of the menopausal journey and like for me, I've been in perimenopause like 13, 14 years. When you know, most doctors are like, ‘Oh, but it's usually about ten years, and I'm like, ‘Uhh, I’m still going (laughs).’”
Conversations about perimenopause, fibroids, and all the things that are associated with women’s bodies have often been considered taboo and thus not discussed publicly. However, times are changing, and thanks to the Gabrielle’s and the Tia Mowry’s, more women are having an authentic discourse about women’s health. These open discussions lead to the creation of more safe spaces and support for one another.
“I want to be in community with folks. I don't ever want to feel like I'm on an island about anything. So, if I can help create community where we are lacking, I want to be a part of that,” she says. “So, it's like there's no harm in talking about it. You know what I mean? Like, I was a bad motherfucker before perimenopause. I’m a bad motherfucker now, and I'll be a bad motherfucker after menopause. Know what I’m saying? None of that has to change. How I’m a bad motherfucker, I welcome that part of the change. I'm just getting better and stronger and more intelligent, more wise, more patient, more compassionate, more empathetic. All of that is very, very welcomed, and none of it should be scary.”
The Being Mary Jane star hasn’t been shy about her stance on therapy. If you don’t know, here’s a hint: she’s all for it, and she encourages others to try it as well. She likens therapy to dating by suggesting that you keep looking for the right therapist to match your needs. Two other essential keys to her growth are radical transparency and radical acceptance (though she admits she is still working on the latter).
"I was a bad motherfucker before perimenopause. I’m a bad motherfucker now, and I'll be a bad motherfucker after menopause. Know what I’m saying? None of that has to change. How I’m a bad motherfucker, I welcome that part of the change."
Gabrielle Union and Kaavia Union-Wade
Photo by Monica Schipper/Getty Images
“I hope that a.) you recognize that you're not alone. Seek out help and know that it's okay to be honest about what the hell is happening in your life. That's the only way that you know you can get help, and that's also the only other way that people know that you are in need if there's something going on,” she says, “because we have all these big, very wild, high expectations of people, but if they don't know what they're actually dealing with, they're always going to be failing, and you will always be disappointed. So how about just tell the truth, be transparent, and let people know where you are. So they can be of service, they can be compassionate.”
Gabrielle’s transparency is what makes her so relatable, and has so many people root for her. Whether through her TV and film projects, her memoirs, or her social media, the actress has a knack for making you feel like she’s your homegirl. Scrolling through her Instagram, you see the special moments with her family, exciting new business ventures, and jaw-dropping fashion moments. Throughout her life and career, we’ve seen her evolve in a multitude of ways. From producing films to starting a haircare line to marriage and motherhood, her journey is a story of courage and triumph. And right now, in this season, she’s asking, “What’s next?”
“This is a season of discovery and change. In a billion ways,” says the NAACP Image Award winner. “The notion of like, ‘Oh, so and so changed. They got brand new.’ I want you to be brand new. I want me to be brand new. I want us to be always constantly growing, evolving. Having more clarity, moving with different purpose, like, and all of that is for me very, very welcomed."
"I want you to be brand new. I want me to be brand new. I want us to be always constantly growing, evolving. Having more clarity, moving with different purpose, like, and all of that is for me very, very welcomed."
She continues, “So I'm just trying to figure out what's next. You know what I mean? I'm jumping into what's next. I'm excited going into what's next and new. I'm just sort of embracing all of what life has to offer.”
Look out for Gabrielle in the upcoming indie film Riff Raff, which is a crime comedy starring her and Jennifer Coolidge, and she will also produce The Idea of You, which stars Anne Hathaway.
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Feature image by Mike Lawrie/Getty Images
If you are looking to bring a little spice into your life, dating a fire sign is the way to do it. These bold lovers are confident enough to take the lead but may surprise you with how generous they are as well. Fire signs are the heat, the passion, the charisma, and the heart of the zodiac. They are often the initiators in love, and don’t mind making the first move. The three fire signs: Aries, Leo, and Sagittarius, love uniquely in their own way, but all have a lasting impact on those they meet.
You can feel a fire sign’s energy from a mile away, and getting close to them on a romantic level is a whole other type of heat.
Fire Signs in Love: What Is It Like To Date a Fire Sign?
Dating a fire sign is exciting, heartfelt, intense, and sexy. Fire signs are some of the most independent of the zodiac signs, yet they are also some of the most loyal. Their inner fire will warm your heart, but treat them badly, and it can just as easily burn. Due to fire signs' nature of feeling everything a little more heightened, they make empathic lovers, but they can also let their feelings overwhelm them and become easily irrational or agitated.
Fire signs can get heated quickly, and dating an unevolved one can get messy as they love to put on a show. They need a partner who is a good balance to their fierce nature, but someone who isn’t going to put out their inner fire in the process.
When it comes to who fire signs are looking to date, they look for partners who can love just as passionately as they can, and expect an unwavering type of loyalty. They are also looking for confident lovers, as they aren’t one to play games or beat around the bush. They are the type of partner to be your biggest cheerleader and will support you in all your endeavors, building up your self-esteem in the process.
These lovers are ready to risk it all when it comes to their relationships and love, and dating them is a fun adventure, to say the least. These are creative, confident, romantic, and heart-warming souls, and dating a fire sign is inspiring.
Dating an Aries
Aries are independent lovers. They are free spirits that are a little hard to settle down with, as most fire signs are, yet you will know how much they are willing to give and put into the relationship through their efforts. You have to be going at the same pace as them in life, and they need to see you as someone who can keep up with them to gain their respect and commitment. Aries have a vision when it comes to their life and love, and are looking for a partner that aligns with their plans or goals that they have for themselves.
Aries, at their best, are loyal and exciting; at their worst, they are competitive and brash.
When it comes to dating an Aries, they want to do things that keep their energy moving and stimulate them. They are fun lovers and are constantly doing things as a young soul does, fueling their spirit. Aries doesn’t want to feel restricted or limited in any way and seek relationships where there is a certain amount of freedom, which in turn sometimes leads them into emotionally unavailable relationships. An evolved Aries seeks their balance and finds themselves in long-lasting partnerships where they can still feel authentically themselves.
Dating an Aries is a compelling adventure.
Learn how an Aries pairs with each sign of the zodiac in love here.
Dating a Leo
Dating a Leo is like entering a rom-com movie. Leos are bold, outspoken, and dramatic lovers. They tend to prefer a spotlight on them, but when it comes to love, they are usually willing to share the stage. Leos want a grand love. They are all about outrageous romantic gestures, complete and utter loyalty, and a little spice. Leos want to be adored, and when you are dating one, they want all of your attention to be on them. Evolved Leos understand they cannot be the center of everyone's world, but Leo’s still going through their love journey may find themselves entertaining drama and controlling the scenario.
Leo’s, at their best, are playful and loving; at their worst, they are irrational and disruptive.
All in all, however, Leos can make some of the best partners to date as they rule the 5th house, the house of romance, dating, love, and flirtation. They are fun partners and are often the ones planning the dates or outings, and creating an atmosphere that is happy and inviting. They are the type to create an uplifting energy in their relationships, and you can expect a lot of laughs in this pairing. Leos don’t hold back when it comes to most things in life, including love. They will express their love and admiration for you often and will expect the same respect in turn.
Dating a Leo is a statement.
Learn how a Leo pairs with each sign of the zodiac in love here.
Dating a Sagittarius
Sagittariuses are hard to grasp, but if they decide to let you into their world, you’ll find a space of wonder, adventure, and magic. There are many different stages a Sagittarius moves through in love, and as much as they like to do things quickly in all other aspects of their lives, when it comes to dating, they tend to take it more slowly. They are not the type to be in a rush to define the relationship and take their time when opening their heart. You will feel their love, their personality, and their attention, but getting to know their deepest selves, their goals, and their dreams is going to take time for Sagittarius, and they prefer to have some fun with you while they get there.
Sagittarius, at their best, are warm and hopeful; at their worst, they are harsh and disingenuous.
Being ruled by abundant Jupiter, Sagittarius lives larger than life. They want a love that feels like it was destined by the stars, and it needs to make sense and fall into place for them with ease. They are looking for all types of synchronicities and signs when dating you, and once you make it past this stage, they truly have their eyes open to you. Sagittarius wants to go on adventures, learn, travel, and explore the world and you while dating. This is a spontaneous sign, and if you can match their energy of passion and wanderlust, then this is a good match for you when it comes to love.
Dating a Sagittarius is a journey.
Learn how a Sagittarius pairs with each sign of the zodiac in love here.
The Love Compatibility Between A Sagittarius Woman And Leo Man
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Featured image by Milena Magazin/Getty Images