

2021 Skincare Trends That Are Actually Pretty Dope
It's January and we've been here before. You know how it is—the entire month is all about starting anew and figuring out what the trends for the new year are. Well, when it comes to our skin, I happened upon a few that I actually like a lot because they can easily be added to any woman's skincare regimen.
Are you ready to tweak a few things so that your skin can be healthy and glowing in 2021? If so, here are seven skincare trends to keep in mind.
1. "Mask Pampering"
You probably looked at this first one and thought, "What the heck is 'mask pampering'?" Oh, but if you sit on it for just a sec, I bet you can figure it out. While there now is a vaccine available, I think it's interesting that a lot of people believe that 1) a vaccine is a cure for COVID-19 and 2) that a lot of medical professionals (including Dr. Fauci) don't think that wearing a mask should be mandated for quite some time (layers, right?) when that couldn't be further from the truth. A vaccine may potentially make you less susceptible to the virus; however, precautions still must be taken. For the time being, this includes wearing a mask.
When it comes to your skincare routine, while on one hand, this means that you can probably keep the foundation that you typically wear in your bathroom drawer for even longer, constantly keeping a piece of cloth around your face can still make you prone to breakouts, if you're not careful.
The way to decrease the chances of this happening is to wash your reusable mask(s), no less than every other day (the CDC offers tips on how to do that here). Another tip is to be sensitive to keeping the pH balance of your skin in check; that will help to reduce pimples too. You can do this by avoiding bar soap (its pH is usually somewhere around 12) and looking for a cleanser that is somewhere between 4-6. One that fits these criteria is COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser. Also, it's important to wash your face (and body) in water that isn't too hot because, as good as hot water feels, that also can throw your pH levels off).
Make sure that you keep your face (and neck) thoroughly moisturized throughout the day too. One way to do that is to make your own face mist; one that you can carry around in your car or purse, any time you feel like your skin needs a little extra hydration.
2. Scalp Detoxification
It's always important to remember that your scalp is also a part of your skin. In fact, failing to pamper your scalp plays a direct role in how much your hair does—or doesn't—flourish. That said, if you tend to wear a lot of product, only wash your hair 1-2 times a month (which isn't a bad thing; shampooing more than that can actually strip your hair of its natural oils and ultimately lead to breakage), notice thinning or hair loss in some areas, your scalp is itchy or irritated, or even that you're getting more headaches than usual (which could be the result of bacterial growth), it's time to do some scalp purification. Luckily, this was covered on our platform last year. You can get tips on how to do it by checking out "Treat Your Scalp To A Little Bit Of Detoxing This Weekend".
3. Hand Care
It's kind of crazy that, with as much as we use our hands, we typically don't give them as much TLC as we should. And while I know a lot of us think that Black don't crack (it actually can if you don't take good care of your skin), two parts of your body that can actually cause you to look older faster are your neck and your hands. As far as your hands go, this is why it's imperative that you exfoliate your hands (they've got dead skin cells on them too; a homemade brown sugar scrub will do); that you also moisturize them during the day and night (I personally apply shea butter to mine); that you apply sunscreen (during the summer months); that you wear plastic gloves when you're washing dishes, and that you wear leather gloves during the winter season in order to protect them from bitter cold and harsh winds.
4. Proactive Anti-Inflammation Methods
To be honest, probably one of the greatest causes of skin drama is skin inflammation. What are some signs that your skin is experiencing this? It itches a lot. It's got a scaly texture to it. It's cracking in some areas. If you notice pimples or even blisters. It's red and/or warm in any particular spot. As far as what causes our skin to become inflamed, it's actually a variety of things. Our immune system could be compromised. We could be experiencing an allergic reaction to something. It could be due to a bacterial or fungal infection. Only a medical professional can confirm what could be going on.
Depending on how severe the issue may be, your doctor may prescribe an oral medication or topical cream. However, if you want to be proactive about avoiding skin inflammation in the first place, taking colloidal oatmeal baths (it has anti-inflammatory properties and can really help to soothe your skin), managing your stress levels, and consuming anti-inflammatory foods can be really helpful. Ones that top the list are broccoli, avocados, mushrooms, grapes, extra virgin olive oil, dark chocolate, and tomatoes.
5. Probiotics and Prebiotics Skincare
If one of your goals for 2021 is that your skin is as blemish-free as possible, something that you should consider adding to your skincare routine are probiotics (which are good bacteria) and prebiotics (which help to keep the "good germs" that are on your skin alive and well).
You can do this by taking a probiotic and/or prebiotic supplement (you can check out a list of some of the best ones here and here). Something else that is helpful is to add more probiotic- and prebiotic-rich foods to your diet. Probiotic ones include yogurt, kefir, pickles, kombucha, as well as mozzarella and cheddar cheeses. Some prebiotic ones would be garlic, bananas, onions, asparagus, oats, apples, and cocoa. As far as probiotic body washes go, Allure actually published a list of some. If you're curious, you can check it out here.
6. Digestible Collagen Supplements
Collagen is basically a protein that your body needs in order for it to get the support that it needs and for it to remain youthful-looking for years to come. Being intentional about getting more collagen into your system, can help to relieve joint pain, prevent bone loss, help your hair to grow stronger and longer, boost your muscle mass and yes—give you gorgeous skin by providing it with more elasticity and hydration. One way to get more collagen into your body is by eating foods that contain a good amount of it. Some of those are citrus fruits, berries, egg whites, chicken, veggies that are red or yellow in color, leafy greens, and cashews. However, a popular skin trend for 2021 is taking a collagen supplement. If this is the route you'd like to take, the website 10 Supplements has a list of 50 for you to choose from (check them all out here).
7. The Glow-Up
It's kind of a trip that this last one is actually a trend because, c'mon—who doesn't want glowing skin? Still, the point in 2021 is to be super intentional about making that happen by drinking more water, exfoliating, and eating foods that are rich in antioxidants (like citrus fruit, berries, kale, whole grains, fish, and beta-carotene-rich veggies like sweet potatoes, carrots, and cantaloupe), doing what you can to reduce body breakouts and, adding a little bronzer to really set your skin off. As far as bronzer goes, there are lots of 'em that you can pick up at your favorite department store or cosmetic counter. Or, if you want to make your own, it's not as hard as you think. For tips on how to do that so that you can be as radiant as ever in this new year, click here. For tips on how to properly apply highlighter to your face, click here. Glow all the way up, sis. It's literally your time to do it!
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After being a regular contributor for about four years and being (eh hem) MIA in 2022, Shellie is back penning for the platform (did you miss her? LOL).
In some ways, nothing has changed and in others, everything has. For now, she'll just say that she's working on the 20th anniversary edition of her first book, she's in school to take life coaching to another level and she's putting together a platform that supports and encourages Black men because she loves them from head to toe.
Other than that, she still works with couples, she's still a doula, she's still not on social media and her email contact (missnosipho@gmail.com) still hasn't changed (neither has her request to contact her ONLY for personal reasons; pitch to the platform if you have story ideas).
Life is a funny thing but if you stay calm, moments can come full circle and this is one of them. No doubt about it.
This New Scalp Care Line Is Exactly What Your Wash Days Need
This post is in partnership with SheaMoisture.
When it comes to healthy hair care, there are a few things that will help you achieve healthy strands: a healthy hair care regime, hydration, consistent treatments, and scalp care. While scalp care is one of the most neglected practices, it is also one of the most important. Why? Because it helps promote healthy hair growth, clear hair follicles, and remove build-up.
When it comes to creating a healthy scalp routine, it helps to know exactly what you’re up against so you know how to specifically treat it. Two of the most common concerns are dandruff and dry scalp. It can be tough to decipher which is which, but here’s a quick breakdown: dry scalp is caused by a lack of moisture in the skin, while dandruff is caused by an excess of oil and yeast buildup on the scalp. Knowing that both of these are big concerns, SheaMoisture released two separate product lines to address both issues: the Scalp Moisture collection and the Anti-Dandruff collection.
Needless to say, if you tend to experience dandruff then I’d recommend you try the Anti-Dandruff collection. However, my biggest concern has always been dry scalp. A lack of moisture on the scalp can be caused by several factors like weather, age, and hair products to name a few. I’ve noticed that when I use certain gels or skip out on a deep scalp cleanse, my roots feel itchy and dry nonstop, which is uncomfortable.
The only way to relieve the discomfort is to properly wash and moisturize my roots, so I tried the Scalp Moisture collection and this is what I thought.
Krissy Lewis for xoNecole
First, What’s In The Collection?
The Scalp Moisture collection is a four-product line that includes a pre-wash masque, a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner, and a moisturizing scalp cream. Each product uses moisturizing and strengthening ingredients like aloe butter and vitamin B3 as active ingredients to provide eight times the moisture. Together, aloe butter and vitamin B3 work to restore dry and brittle hair, as well as add relief to the scalp.
Now, let’s break down each product…
Krissy Lewis for xoNecole
Scalp Moisture Pre-Wash Masque
The SheaMoisture Scalp Moisture Pre-Wash Masque may actually be the all-star of the collection. Using this deep conditioning masque is one of the best ways to target your dry scalp, restore hydration, and nourish your strands before shampooing.
I started by completely saturating my hair and scalp with water, then making small sections to apply the masque directly to the root. For my girls who have experience with relaxers and perms, it helps to apply the masque to your roots just like you would do with a relaxer. This way you can make sure you’ve covered as much of your scalp as possible while minimizing any breakage.
Pro tip: you can also use a color application brush to make this step easier.
After I completely covered my scalp, I massaged the product into my roots, used any excess on my strands, then left the masque in for 30 minutes. I was shocked by how moisturizing and clarifying my scalp and hair felt. One of the things that I love about the masque is the slip and how much softer it made my hair. While this is marketed as a scalp care product, it can completely transform your hair from dry and parched to completely hydrated.
In my opinion, the downside of this masque is that the quantity is too small for my liking. Truth be told, naturals go through deep conditioners faster than any other product (especially when it’s this good.) So SheaMoisture, if you’re reading this, we’d love a bigger jar.
Krissy Lewis for xoNecole
Scalp Moisture Shampoo
The SheaMoisture Scalp Moisture Shampoo is a gentle cleanser packed with the same moisture as the masque. The pearl-colored shampoo is lightweight with a serum-like consistency and a light and clean scent. The smell is pleasant, subtle, and not overbearing. When I applied the shampoo, I noticed immediately that it foams and lathers up very quickly, so less is more.
After applying the shampoo, I parted my hair and started at the roots to target as much of my scalp as possible. I recommend really taking the time to work the product and massage your scalp as much as possible.
Pro tip: using a scalp massager makes it easier and it feels amazing.
Once you start to massage your hair you’ll feel the product start to work. There’s a tingling sensation that might catch you off guard if you’re not used to it, but it’s not nearly as strong as other scalp products I’ve tried. I know some may not appreciate the sensation, but I loved it! My scalp felt clean, light, and breathable.
Krissy Lewis for xoNecole
Scalp Moisture Conditioner
Like the shampoo, the SheaMoisture Scalp Moisture Conditioner shares that pearly color and serum-like feel. It applies very easily while softening and moisturizing your hair. When I applied it to my hand, it gave my hands a lotion-like feel, which speaks volumes about its hydration capabilities. I also loved that the conditioner comes with a pump, instead of having to squeeze the product out – to me, it makes application easier.
I typically apply my conditioner to the ends first but because this is a scalp care product I started at the root and worked my way down to my ends. I did leave the conditioner in for ten minutes, although the bottle recommends leaving it in for three. The conditioner also provides that same breathable feel to your scalp. I honestly loved the relief.
Krissy Lewis for xoNecole
Scalp Moisture Cream
The SheaMoisture Scalp Moisture Cream is more of a daily relief product for your roots rather than your overall hair. It’s great for providing moisture and immediate relief to a dry and itchy scalp. Just like most of the collection, it gives a light and breathable feel – without the tingle. The applicator bottle targets specific parts of your scalp and makes applying easier.
Pro tip: I typically just squeeze the bottle to wherever I need the relief and use the tip to massage it into my scalp so it doesn’t mess up the hairstyle.
Overall, SheaMoisture’s scalp care line lives up to its claims – it moisturizes, strengthens, and provides immediate scalp relief. I definitely recommend trying the Scalp Moisture collection for an affordable way to treat itchy and dry scalp.
Featured image by Krissy Lewis for xoNecole
If Bossing Up Was Person: Why Teyana Taylor Is A Force Every Black Creative Should Take A Nod From
Teyana Taylor is no stranger to the hustle and grind of treading through the hills and valleys of a career in entertainment. Since the early 2000s (whoa, crazy typing that) I've been a huge fan of what she's always brought to the table, especially representing Harlem, a borough I hold dear to my heart from early childhood memories of spending summers there.
With her unique style, powerful presence, and bold way of approaching anything she does, no one can deny that Taylor ain't nothing to play with.
Her recent collab with Jordan---an Air Jordan 1 Zoom CMFT 2 “A Rose From Harlem” sneaker---broke records and sold out within minutes of its June 1st release. She also directed a fairytale-inspired video, giving a nod to Bridgerton, Cinderella, and Spike Lee's Do the Right Thing for the launch, co-starring her daughters, Junie and Rue Rose, Philadelphia Eagles' Jalen Hurts, and DJ Khaled, and featuring cameos from hip-hop stars Maino, Fabolous, and Remy Ma.
Brian Ach / Contributor
She's proven her creative tenacity, talent, and wit time and time again, from her early 2000s self-affirming anthem, "Google Me," to landing deals with music labels including Pharell's Star Trak and Kanye's G.O.O.D. Music, to her iconic Internet-breaking role in Kanye West's "Fade" video, to dominating stages giving sultry, authentic, and rousing within rock, hip-hop, soul, and funk-infused experiences for fans. (You really can't just call her shows "concerts" because Ms. Teyana is truly a divine performer who offers her all from the soul and gut.)
Many of us who have been following her journey are well aware of the chart-topping albums filled with collabs with legends including Lauryn Hill and Erykah Badu, and her stand-out supporting roles in comic cult classics. I mean, let's really put some respect on her fabulous portrayal of Bopoto Izzi---a reimagining of the '80s classic Imani Izzi character played by Black Hollywood royalty Vanessa Bell Calloway---in the 2021 sequel, Coming 2 America, which came in at No. 1 in streams its opening weekend. Or how about the $25 million hitMadea's Big Happy Family that wouldn't have been the same without the unforgettable, "Byyyyyyroooonnnn!.
And let's not forget how she always un-alives the game with any fashion runway or brand collaboration she touches. From the Met Gala to global fashion weeks, she always adds a touch of glamourous urban spin to haute couture, representing all that is multifaceted and golden about being a Black woman.
Mike Coppola / Staff/Getty
Confidence And Resilience Leading To Longevity And Growth
After more than a decade, the wife and mother of two has faced her fair share of challenges, snubs, and obstacles in her music and film career. There was those infamous reports of the online feud with Rihanna and the subsequent news of Adidas dropping her from a sneaker deal back in 2013. There was also her public acknowledgement of the impact of career disappointments when, citing feelings of being "unappreciated," she announced her retirement from music in 2020.
She reemerged on stages in 2021 with "The Last Rose Petal" tour and in 2022 with "The Last Rose Petal 2" run. The shows sold out and Janet Jackson surprised her with an appearance at the London stop.
Taylor also shifted to honing her acting craft and working on other creative projects after giving music a break."When I retired, I really wanted to focus on directing and acting, so this is the first project that I did since stepping into that world, " she told Elleof her renewed focus and work with A Thousand And One.
Prince Williams / Contributor/Getty Images
She's clearly pushed through, not letting anything or anyone stop her from thriving in the journey, setting her career goals, being intentional, and making her business dreams a reality. The results of that are as clear as day: her work via The Aunties production team, the recent collab with Jordan (a brand that has reportedly earned Nike $19 billion by the way), her recent creative direction gigs with top artists including Latto, Summer Walker, and Lola Brooke, and her recent breakout role in a Sundance grand jury prize-wowing film helmed by two powerful Black women (A.V. Rockwell as writer and director, and Lena Waithe as co-producer), and the continued slaying of red carpets prove that she's in it to win it.
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