
Another day, another slay, thanks to the latest beauty trend taking over my “For You” page. TikTok has become the quintessential source of easy, real-life, everyday makeup tutorials that leave me wanting to take a trip to my local Sephora only to search for products I never knew I needed. It has become a trusted source of tried and true beauty hacks demonstrated by my favorite online influencers.
A more recent trend to hit TikTok is the pink under-eye blush application, with a phenomenal 106.1 million views. With a quick search of #pinkundereye you’ll see endless videos of women from every background and a variety of skin tones with their product recommendations and techniques on how to achieve this DIY pink concealer.
I love discovering practical and effortless beauty tips that I can add to my daily routine that won’t take too much time each morning. My makeup preference is a natural beat that takes less than 30 minutes to apply. Easy to achieve no matter one's skill level with a quick combination of three products, I was excited to give it a shot.
Follow along with my step-by-step guide on how to apply this pink under-eye concealer that may have you rethinking your everyday makeup routine below.
How To: The Pink Under-Eye Blush Trend
Step 1: Concealer
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First thing when starting your pink under-eye look, apply your go-to under-eye concealer to brighten the inside corner area underneath your eye. A good concealer will be a shade lighter than your foundation, masking any dark circles, wrinkles, or blemishes. Preferably used after smoothing on your foundation, allow your concealer to set for about 5 to 10 minutes before moving on to steps 2 and 3 of this effortless look.
Step 2: Blush #1
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As for the next step, I used Rare Beauty’s Soft Pinch Liquid Blush in the color "Bliss." I loved the lightweight feel and ease of application the matte nude pink provided. The soft tonal rose pink was subtle, with just the right pop of color extending to the deepest part of the inverted triangle underneath the eye.
Step 3: Blush #2
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Following up with a second blush with a deeper tone, I used Fenty Beauty’s Cheeks Out Freestyle Cream Blush in "Summertime Wine" on the outer under-eye higher up on my cheekbones. Using a M405 Angled Contour Brush from Morphe, I applied the lightweight cream blush, which is a great product to build upon if a more pigmented look is desired.
Step 4: Blend
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At this point, I was a bit nervous about the outcome but knew I had to trust the process. Opting for a sponge for finishing touches, it worked wonders in blending the layers of blush, especially with a mix of liquid and cream products, giving it a more natural finish.
After blending, I decided to apply another layer of Fenty Beauty’s "Summertime Wine," which is why I love a builder blush. With more layers, the bolder the look with a doll-like effect.
Shahirah Ahmed/xoNecole
Step 5: Setting Powder
Shahirah Ahmed/xoNecole
Finally, I applied setting powder to set the under-eye makeup, which allows it to last throughout the day by keeping the oil away while also achieving a smooth matte finish. For this step, I also used a Beauty Blender to set the concealer and blush combination.
Final Look
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Being a natural makeup girly with less is more perspective, I’ll definitely try this look again. Finding the right balance of blush, concealer, and setting powder will be the ultimate goal, as this beauty trend is for those who love a subtle approach to their everyday makeup routine.
Layering the perfect pinks without going too bold while also achieving an effortless pigmented look is the key.
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I Stopped Wearing Acrylics, And My Natural Nails Got Longer And Healthier Than Ever
Like most teenage girls, my first acrylic nail set felt like a right of passage. I was 17 years old, and it was the morning of my junior prom. I went with a long square silhouette, a lightly colored base coat topped with swirling white airbrushed designs on each fingernail ---a very early 2000-esque homage. After years of only being allowed to wear press-on nails around the house, I remember sitting in the chair, trying my best to hold in the excitement and anticipation of my first professional full set.
From that moment, I was hooked. Throughout my adult life, I developed a love-hate relationship with visiting the nail salon faithfully every two to three weeks.
After years of acrylic extensions, I began to notice how damaged and brittle my natural nails were becoming in between sets. Once the process became too painful and upkeep seemed to be causing more harm than good, I began to seek alternatives that would allow my real nails to grow healthy, strong, and just as long but without extensions.
One day, a friend came back from Paris raving about her latest experience receiving a hard gel manicure while abroad. After hearing her testimony and seeing how long her natural nails had grown in such a short time, I did more research to learn what exactly went into this gel that she couldn’t stop raving about.
Skeptical of the many nail trends and techniques, I became frustrated trying to keep up with the latest innovations, and this seemed to be just another trend. However, fully determined and striving for longer lengths and stronger nails without the awful nail enhancements, I finally decided to give the hard gel a try.
I tried just about everything as an alternative, from gel polish to Gel-X; however, nothing seemed to get the results I was looking for.
After removing my acrylics, I began my natural nail journey with short and brittle nails. Surprisingly, it didn’t take long to see major improvements. Within the first 30 days, I saw how fast my nails were growing and how strong they were becoming.
Keep scrolling to see my nail journey from the beginning and why hard gel has convinced me to leave nail extensions in the past for good.
Acrylic Nails - July 2022
Courtesy of Shahirah Ahmed
Courtesy of Shahirah Ahmed
Hard Gel Manicure - February 2023
Courtesy of Shahirah Ahmed
Hard Gel Manicure - March 2023
Courtesy of Shahirah Ahmed
Hard Gel Manicure - April 2023
Courtesy of Shahirah Ahmed
What Is Hard Gel?
Also known as builder gel, hard gel can be used to deliver a protective coating to cover the natural nails, making them feel harder, stronger, and more flexible. This innovative nail enhancement can be molded, shaped, and refilled by being cured or hardened in a UV light rather than through evaporating solvents like acrylic. Hard gel is not gel polish, shellac, soft gel, or soak-off gel; however, you can put gel polish over hard gel for a nice finish and designs if you’re feeling fancy.
Along with more strength and durability, the hard gel is excellent at protecting natural nails, making them less likely to break or crack over time.
According to nailpro.com, hard gel is an acrylic alternative, and you can use hard gel to overlay natural nails, sculpt extensions and repair broken nails. The site also suggests hard gel is perfect for clients who are transitioning from acrylic, who want to strengthen their natural nails, or who have weak and brittle nails that need more support and structure. Also, if you are removing acrylic, hard gel is the best product to provide more support as you transition.
Hard Gel - June 2023
Courtesy of Shahirah Ahmed
The Benefits of Hard Gel
What I love most about the application of hard gel is how quickly I’m in and out of the salon chair. A method that takes about an hour from start to finish, it’s extremely quick compared to the time it takes to apply acrylic. Another bonus of hard gel is that you can fill it in, just like you would acrylic, which is ideal for those of us who rather not soak off our nails every service. Unlike many gel methods, hard gel cannot be taken off by acetone which is one reason it's so durable and why its properties help protect the natural nail.
As previously mentioned, this is also a good service for those who want to grow their natural nails to longer lengths while keeping them strong and healthy, which is why I personally made the switch. Long, healthy natural nails are definitely a flex. Along with efficiency and time, hard gel is also more cost-effective, starting at $70---cheaper than a full set of acrylic nails.
I’m also not booking nail appointments every two weeks because hard gel can last up to six weeks without needing a fill or even getting a chip.
Healthy Nails - July 2023
Courtesy of Shahirah Ahmed
With patience and determination, my nails have achieved my wildest dreams. A year later, my nails are now at a length I thought was only achievable with artificial enhancements, and I couldn't be happier. Hard gel has become a staple in my self-care routine, and I don’t plan to give it up any time soon.
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Every year the lure of a European summer draws me in with temptations of an Aperol spritz on the shores of the swankiest of beaches or sipping poolside on the rooftop of a trendy boutique hotel. This year, I decided to book a two-week vacation galavanting around Europe from London to Paris, with a few stops in Spain.
Jet setting from city to city may sound like the picture-perfect holiday in theory. However, it took more time to lock down my outfits than it did to plan my day-to-day itinerary. With such a long trip, dragging multiple suitcases around Europe was completely opposite of the romantic fantasy I envisioned for myself.
My goal? To blend in with the European aesthetic while also standing out in my own unique way. With perfectly warm temperatures along with stunning historical architecture, it was the perfect opportunity to shop for new clothes to fit my new surroundings. From neutral tones, lightweight trousers, bikinis, and chic accessories, these were items I could easily fit into a checked bag while also rotating between looks without a complete outfit repeat.
Whether packing for an upcoming trip or adding to your 2024 mood board, I’m here to ease your stress with a quick guide and outfit inspiration to living a stylish life while on your next European vacation.
What To Wear: 72 Hours in Paris
A Classic Blazer
Shahirah Ahmed/xoNecole
Shahirah Ahmed/xoNecole
There’s an effortlessly casual nature about The City of Light with chic undertones that I instantly wanted to be a part of. On day one, I went with a pinstripe blazer paired with wide-leg distressed denim jeans and casual sneakers for a day of sightseeing. Perfect from day to night, a dark oversized blazer is a great choice for a variety of looks.
Shahirah Ahmed/xoNecole
Shahirah Ahmed/xoNecole
The Denim Maxi Skirt
Shahirah Ahmed/xoNecole
Shahirah Ahmed/xoNecole
I couldn't travel to Europe without a few of my favorite denim pieces. Pairing a maxi denim skirt with a matching one-shoulder denim top gave the appearance of a denim dress ultimately, which allowed me to break up each piece to wear on two other occasions throughout my trip.
Shahirah Ahmed/xoNecole
A Necktie
Shahirah Ahmed/xoNecole
Shahirah Ahmed/xoNecole
Incorporating menswear can be a cool addition to a women's look. Recently black neckties have taken on a unisex appeal within the spring/summer streetwear scene, and I couldn't wait to wear one of my own. In true Parisian fashion, I kept my tones neutral for a sleek look with a pop of gold metallic.
Shahirah Ahmed/xoNecole
Shahirah Ahmed/xoNecole
What To Wear: Views From Mallorca
Linen Trousers
Shahirah Ahmed/xoNecole
Shahirah Ahmed/xoNecole
There’s only one requirement when traveling to a warm European destination: lightweight fabrics. A fun play on textures and patterns, I paired a men’s cream and black knit top worn as a cover-up early in the day, ultimately transitioning my look with a pair of trousers for an evening walk around the city. Linen pants are my favorite this time of year because of their versatility and feel.
Shahirah Ahmed/xoNecole
Crochet Knits
Shahirah Ahmed/xoNecole
Shahirah Ahmed/xoNecole
Spain was the perfect destination to invest in summer trends saved to my Pinterest boards, such as crochet knits. As mentioned above, lightweight, breathable fabrics are great options to stay cool while lounging or touring a city. This yellow and orange ombre bikini crochet cover-up was the perfect coverage by the pool, revealing a conservative amount of skin.
Shahirah Ahmed/xoNecole
Shahirah Ahmed/xoNecole
Cargos
Shahirah Ahmed/xoNecole
Shahirah Ahmed/xoNecole
The cargo look has dominated fashion trends for a couple of years, and now its influence has spread to incorporate more than just oversized pants. This cargo halter neck open-front top was an exciting addition to my vacation-ready looks, I couldn’t wait to wear it. Keeping it light and neutral, I paired it with tan cargo pants along with light green sunglasses for a subtle pop of color.
Shahirah Ahmed/xoNecole
Ruffle Dress
Shahirah Ahmed/xoNecole
Shahirah Ahmed/xoNecole
This maxi ruffle dress was perfect for dinner with a view. Fit for a fairytale, the romantic style was a must-have for a stunning nighttime look. Traveling through Europe with mostly neutral, there was no better time than this flowing fuschia moment.
Shahirah Ahmed/xoNecole
Shahirah Ahmed/xoNecole
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Featured image by Shahirah Ahmed/xoNecole
Modest Fashion Is Having A Moment — And These Influencers Share Why It’s More Than A Trend
Growing up in the early 2000s, it was common to see our favorite music artists, high fashion models, and video vixens revealing plenty of skin with an emphasis on their favorite assets throughout many facets of mainstream media. While overtly convincing young women being sexy was determined by the least amount of clothing one could possibly wear, it caused many of us to become obsessed with our bodies believing that was the only way to be seen, feel beautiful, and most importantly gain the attention of the opposite sex.
Over 20 years later the fashion industry is beginning to shift in ways we haven't seen in decades. Throughout the spring 2023 runway collections, designers debuted enticing looks featuring long hemlines with emphasis on silhouettes and fully covered midriffs articulating sexiness with fashion-forward modesty.
A part of this modern culture shift can be attributed to the current state of our economy here in the United States. As we climb out the last three years of a worldwide pandemic there has been a decline in consumer confidence with predictions of a looming economic downturn. The hemline index theory is what's known in the fashion industry as the theory of recessions correlating to longer hemlines and less flashy clothing resulting in a more conservative way of life. To give a comparison, skirts tend to get shorter when the economy is doing well and people are feeling more confident financially and longer when there's less optimism and uncertainty.
While the theory is debatable in its factual nature, this can be seen throughout history with clothing being of neutral tones and less revealing following the Wall Street Crash leading to the Great Depression and World Wars in the most extreme cases, while bright and jubilant during the 1960s and early 2000s.
When it comes to fashion, less being more is truly subjective, especially to those that believe dressing conservatively to be the quintessential aspect of true elegance, style, and liberation. While seemingly another mainstream fashion trend on the rise here in the United States, for many women around the world modesty is not a trend but a lifestyle. More than maxi skirts, oversized blazers, and baggy trousers, modesty represents a mindset of sophistication while demanding respect for one's body, mind, and soul regardless of one's personal style or religious affiliation.
Even with a modern shift in the sartorial world, modesty has misconceptions of its own. While there’s still a long way to go with modest representation, these fashion influencers are sharing why they believe modesty makes women more attractive and how it’s more than clothes but a way to represent who they are from the inside out.
Aïssata Diallo
“Modesty is the core of my self-expression and there's a level of elegance to it that I always found endearing.” - Aïssata Diallo
Based in NYC, Aïssata is a fashion influencer whose style is based on who she is and where she’s from. When asked what inspired her style she shares, “My personal style comes from my inspirations of the inner-city girl mixed in with my faith and culture. I try to blend all of these different components of myself [in]to one aesthetic that screams modern Muslim woman from NYC.” Developing her personal style, Aissata says “modesty” was not in her vocabulary at a young age. “Being new to this, it took time figuring out my personal style, and to be honest the learning is still ongoing but it’s been empowering to keep pushing the envelope with my modest fashion.”
For many Muslim women, modesty can be seen as oppressive from the outside looking in, what many fail to see is that women of the faith have a choice in how they want to be perceived in the world and express beauty in their own way. “What most people don’t realize is that modesty is a personal journey and a decision you have to make for yourself otherwise you’d never stick through with it. Eventually, I got to a point where I wanted to submit to God.”
She continues, “Modesty is the core of my self-expression and there’s a level of elegance to it that I have always found endearing. In being modest you’re going against the societal norm to revel in the power of your choice. It’s also a spiritual thing for me and a way to please God. It’s more than just what you’re wearing on the outside, it’s a lifestyle. The way you carry yourself, the way you think, your heart, your morals, and values. There’s a lot of inner work that goes into it and the outer beauty just reflects it.”
"Dressing more modestly naturally elevated my style." - Aïssata Diallo
Another way modesty defines a woman's beauty is by elevating personal style, shifting from fast fashion to investing in quality items. “In my opinion, modesty enhances a woman’s beauty beyond the superficial and [adds] substance, depth and a level of mystery to one’s beauty.” Aïssata continues, “It also enhances the amount of respect I demand/receive from anyone who sees me. In terms of my personal style, dressing more modestly naturally elevated my style. I used to buy a lot of fast fashion before embarking on this journey and now I find myself only investing in high-quality pieces.”
Furthermore, Aissata explains, “Modesty is personal, and it does not have to be boring and you don’t have to look like an elderly. I’m learning that you can bring parts of yourself and your culture in your modest journey and continue to grow further as you learn more about yourself and your faith.”
Asma Shakar
“Modestly enhances my personal style because it forces me to pay more attention to the small details of my outfits.” - Asma Shakar
Fashion stylist and boutique owner Asma Shakar is a fashion influencer who describes her personal style as both modest and versatile. “Modesty to me not only means dressing in a way that my body is not shown. It also relates to how I carry and conduct myself as a woman and as a Muslim,” Asma shares. “I think modesty enhances a woman's beauty because it allows for people to look past their physical attributes and focus more on their heart and soul. Modesty enhances my personal style because it forces me to pay more attention to the small details of my outfits.”
Always feeling confident, she continues to elevate and develop her natural style. “I feel like I’ve always been confident in my personal style but it has been developing since I learned the true definition of style.” She continues, “I honestly feel like my personal style is developing every day and probably won’t stop anytime soon.”
As far as negative stereotypes for Muslim women, she states that “one of the biggest misconceptions is that dressing modestly as a Muslimah is oppressive. But when major fashion houses dress their models modestly, it’s fashion. I believe when I dress modestly it’s liberating as opposed to being oppressive.”
Anne
“It shows class and a sense of inner confidence.”- Anne
Conservative fashion doesn’t always have to be a religious decision. For Anne, it’s an expression of who she is and how she feels on the inside. “How I dress is a reflection of my mood and energy. I’m always intentional about the way I want to look.” She continues, “There’s an effortlessness and hints of androgyny that always remain as part of my signature style. I enjoy playing in clothes and reinventing myself.”
Her belief in modesty is simple, it’s a choice. “It shows class and a sense of inner confidence. It can also be seen as a reflection of one’s self-esteem. My personal style is predominantly modest because I enjoy the contrast of wearing something feminine with something masculine. I think there’s so much more to look at when you’re fully clothed and dressed well.”
“Modesty enhances a woman’s beauty by shifting the focus to the beauty of other attributes like her smile, behavior, her stance, and/or her words. Modesty isn’t a limitation, it’s the liberty to showcase other sides of you.” - Anne
As a child, Anne states she was always confident in her style which gave her the freedom to express herself and develop into the woman she was destined to become. “I was confident as a child with my style. I was given the space to express myself through clothes. I liked what I liked and there was always a freedom to choose how I wanted to present myself. My mom really nurtured that side of me.” Allowing her that freedom, she learned how to see herself in many forms and appreciate all attributes of herself which gave her the freedom to experiment with style. “I believe modesty enhances a woman’s beauty by shifting the focus to her smile, her behavior, her stance, and/or her words. Modesty isn’t a limitation, it’s the liberty to showcase other sides of you.”
Modesty enhances Anne’s personal style by inspiring her to experiment with layering, structure, and shape. She shares her number one style rule, “If I’m to wear something that shows a little more skin, everything else is to be covered. I think the overall look becomes that much more interesting and tasteful.”
Her overall thoughts on why she encourages modesty are that “it inspires transformation. There are so many ways to enhance your beauty and reinvent yourself whilst fully dressed. Modesty isn’t boring. It’s timeless and powerful.”
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Featured image by Aïssata Diallo/Instagram
Let’s face it, growing older is inevitable, and there’s nothing we can do to stop it. With age comes maturity, strength, and wisdom, and it should be embraced, not seen as a hindrance or a part of our lives to be ashamed of. While we can’t stop the natural process of life, we can be proactive about the proper skincare products, tools, and lifestyle choices we can practice to promote healthy and natural aging that allows us to age gracefully with beautiful, healthy skin.
Prior to my 30s, I relied on my melanin-rich skin with minimal effort because, as the saying goes, “Black doesn’t crack.” However, I’ve learned that there’s more to maintaining glowing skin than relying on purely genetics. Preventative measures are crucial in combating the skin's aging process. Fine lines, wrinkles, loose dry skin, hyperpigmentation, and other noticeable forms of aging begin long before you see them, seemingly appearing out of nowhere. Recently, I noticed a change in my skin's texture around my neck that never went away. Slowly panicked once I realized what was happening, the first sign of aging had arrived, and I had no idea what to do or how to reverse it.
From product ingredients to lifestyle choices, there are many factors in how one’s complexion and skin health progresses over time. If you’re reading this, you more than likely have a facial routine or know to at least wash and moisturize your face daily, however, there are simple additions that we can incorporate into our everyday routines.
To provide tips, I’ve enlisted the help of skincare experts to provide the best and most effective products, ingredients, and even foods to achieve your best-looking skin yet.
Meet the Experts
Courtesy of Jordan Karim
Jordan Karim, Founder/Owner of Flora & Noor
Flora & Noor is the first and only halal-certified skincare brand in America with a mission to provide beyond-clean skincare that yields efficacious, fast-acting, and non-irritating results for underrepresented consumers with chronic skin conditions and melanin-rich skin. Inspired and formulated with botanicals and versatile fruits from African and Middle Eastern traditions, their products are clinically effective with clean ingredients that are backed by science and powered by botanicals.
Courtesy of Mona Bahraini
Mona Bahraini, Owner of PPBody
PPBody is skincare simplified with formulas that are true to nature, using the power of cacti to heal. Mona Bahraini, the founder, grew up in Arizona, where they used prickly pear, aka nopales, for everything from eating to topical benefits. As an adult, she discovered the power of the cactus fruit; not only is it a superfood, but the oil extracted from the seed is incredible for your skin. Prickly pear seed oil contains a plethora of vitamins, minerals, plant acids, and fatty acids that provide antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits.
1. Do less.
The common notion that less is more is true indeed for most of what we do in life, and skincare is no exception. When becoming more aware of proper ingredients that work well for your skin type, it could all be incredibly simple when achieving and maintaining tight yet supple, youthful-looking skin. “The skin industry has convinced the people that we need to have 4-5 daily products applied on the skin, and our skin is screaming at us 'do less,'” states Mona Bahraini. “You only need one or two powerful natural ingredients on your facial skin to make a significant difference."
2. Don't forget to exfoliate.
As mentioned, our skin naturally sheds and regenerates new skin cells; however, nonabrasive exfoliation is an amazing process that can instantly refresh our complexion by speeding up the natural process with noticeably instant results. “Exfoliating not only eliminates the buildup of dead skin cells but also helps encourage your skin to quicken its cell turnover rate to reveal the healthy skin cells below,” Jordan Karim explains.
However, Bahraini has a slightly different take. “Exfoliation is a tricky subject as the skin industry has convinced us that we need to disrupt and exfoliate constantly with scrubs, masks, cleansers, and the list goes on. Our skin also has a natural process of shedding cells and regeneration that we actually prevent and disrupt by doing everything that is trendy.”
"Our skin also has a natural process of shedding cells and regeneration that we actually prevent and disrupt by doing everything that is trendy.”
She continues, “Most exfoliants strip your skin of the natural oils it needs to help natural skin tissue regeneration and dries out your skin which then means you need to add more product to your face to lubricate it after you strip it, it does not make sense to the body at all, but it sure makes sense to the pockets of big box skin industry.” When it comes to exfoliation, Bahraini suggests going the natural route without stripping the skin of essential oils.
3. Maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Do you notice people who live well past their 80s and 90s typically have one thing in common? Healthy lifestyle habits go a long way, quite literally. Easier said than done, one way to ensure ageless skin is by practicing a lifestyle of self-care from the inside out. “Reduce the amount of alcohol intake and drink more water. Use sunscreen. Have a couple days a week where you do not make healthy food choices, but most days of the week, you should be incorporating walnuts, avocados, blueberries, honey, olive oil, lemon, red onions, fish, deep leafy greens like kale, spinach, and arugula,” Bahraini advises. Easier said than done for most, eliminating alcohol is a long-term solution for achieving ageless skin.
4. Don't forget your neck.
For most women, the first signs of aging begin to appear at both the hands and neck, caused by various environmental stressors. With noticeably dry, thin skin beginning to appear in both of these areas, I frantically began my search for anti-aging ingredients that would tighten and brighten my newfound problem areas. “Vitamin C and Gotu Kola are great ingredients to look for in anti-aging products," Karim shares. "Flora & Noor's Vitamin C Collection will give you tighter, brighter, and hydrated skin which includes a 4-step regimen to promote healthy collagen production using our Boost and Brighten Cleanser, Vitamin C Resurfacing Toner, Bright Side Serum, and the Super Glow Moisturizer."
Courtesy of Flora & Noor
Flora & Noor doesn't use retinol since it's not halal. However, the company created a plant-based alternative. Karim continues, "Gotu kola, a plant-based retinol alternative which, is another great ingredient for anti-aging. Gotu kola's benefits concerning skincare include decreasing aging signs, promoting tighter and firmer skin, and it is anti-inflammatory using nutritional elements, including beta carotene, amino and fatty acids, and phytochemicals to fight aging signs from setting into the skin."
5. Wash with a gentle cleanser.
Using cleansers with harsh and/or toxic ingredients can do more harm than good to our skin, especially as we age. Recently, I discovered an app called Yuka that helps consumers choose healthier products. Yuka scans a range of products from our favorite brands assessing the health benefits with a rating of harmfulness while recommending healthier alternatives. This is a great option for those who want to get a comprehensive breakdown of harmful ingredients that may be in our favorite cleansers.
Courtesy
In addition to Yuka, to avoid products that may do more damage to our delicate skin, Bahraini suggests going back to the basics. "At night, if you wore makeup, use a natural baby shampoo to lightly remove makeup. Most cleansers that remove makeup strip your skin of everything good, which makes your skin's job much harder."
She recommends washing your face with water only, especially if you do not wear makeup, and applying a morning and night oil with only a couple of drops to balance out natural oil production, even with oily skin.
6. Moisturize every day.
Dry skin can significantly advance the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, which is why moisturizing every day is essential to slowing down premature aging. We’ve learned that cleansing can strip our skin of vital oils and nutrients, so following up with a moisturizer traps water in our skin, giving it a more luscious youthful appearance. This should become a routine habit within our skincare regime. However, Bahraini explains it takes more effort than using just any moisturizing product.
Bahraini suggests PPBody’s night and morning formulas reduce wrinkles formation, tighten existing wrinkles, lighten dark spots, minimize bags under the eyes, and provide deep hydration for an ultimate natural glow. “Cream-base moisturizers do not penetrate skin the way oil does as most are stuffed with fluff ingredients and water. Another key ingredient, prickly pear seed oil, is non-comedogenic, which means it does not block pores and fully penetrates all skin types with a plethora of vitamins, minerals, plant acids, and fatty acids that provide antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits.”
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Featured image by Olga Rolenko/Getty Images
Spring is upon us and with this time of year comes the annual closet cleanout we so desperately need and collectively look forward to. Despite freezing cold temperatures and endless rain, winter weather is slowly fading away and it's time we clear out what no longer serves us both in life and in our closets. A symbol of new beginnings and transformations, the shift in seasons is the perfect time to declutter our space while releasing the old to welcome the new.
During the process of evaluating our wardrobes, we determine what we can live without while looking forward to what it is we truly need. As we reintroduce boldly enticing fashion predicted by spring runway collections, it’s smart to start with a foundation of neutral staples to be mixed and matched with serotonin-releasing statement items some of us so desperately live for.
Each season there are new styles and designs and with the overload of viral trends, it's easy to become influenced by an endless cycle of forgettable “must-haves.” To help get you started on your most stylish season ever, we’ve curated a list of 10 trending items you can mix and match daily to achieve a perfectly balanced chic and classic fashion-forward wardrobe.
1.White Tank Top
The must-have ribbed white tank is the number one staple everyone needs in their spring and summer wardrobe. Perfectly paired with denim, soft trousers, maxi skirts, and more, the combinations are indeed endless. A ribbed tank is relatively inexpensive even with a quality find that provides plenty of wear and durability. For a trend-forward look, wear a maxi cargo skirt, neutral-colored sneakers, and pearl accessories for an everyday casual outfit.
2.Denim Maxi Skirt
As mentioned above, a maxi skirt is a great pairing for a fashion-forward casual outfit idea. Denim maxis have re-emerged as one of the most viral trends sweeping social media. The 2000s era trend is extremely versatile, being dressed up or down depending on one's mood and activities for the day. Dress down a denim maxi skirt with sneakers and a casual white top for everyday errands or dress it up with a sleek heel, cut-out top, and moto jacket for an elevated modern take on the trend.
3.Straight Leg Denim
The answer to the viral debate about whether or not skinny jeans are back is the straight-leg denim trend. Slowly taking over as this season's most wanted silhouette, the updated skinny jean is slim but less form-fitting, perfect for a boot or sneaker. With a range of washes from light blue to indigo, the slim-leg denim trend is here to stay.
4.Statement Jewelry
Gone are the days of minimal jewelry, we’ve had enough of that thanks to the pandemic. This year is all about going bold as accessories can elevate the most basic outfit tremendously. Silver is forcing its way back into the mainstream jewelry trends with women who once laughed at the idea of ever adorning the metal experiencing a drastic change of heart. If not wearable art, it's stackable jewelry with the chunkier being the better. If you’re not ready to give up the minimal look, add in a statement necklace layered with minimal chains and hoop earrings to achieve an effortless cool girl look.
5.Loafers
If you’re a chunky boot lover, loafers are the perfect swap for warm weather. Style with chunky socks when wearing a skirt or slip into a classic pair with oversized long-length low-rise jeans. Loafers have seen a dramatic rise in popularity over the past year and there’s no slowing down on the trend.
6.Oversized Sunglasses
Nothing about this year is about blending in or being subtle which is why designer frames from Loewe, Gucci, and Tom Ford are setting the standard on 2023 eyewear. Just like most accessories, frames are bigger and bolder than we’ve seen in the last 10 years thanks to the aviator trend making a solid comeback for spring. Oversized sunnies with face-shaping silhouettes are even better with daring colors and contrasting tints to make a stylish statement this coming season.
7.Shoulder Bag
There's something about the shoulder bag that has captivated the fashion world more recently. It's small yet conveniently fits all necessities with a limitless range of colors, shapes, and patterns to match any look. It’s also the perfect balance between the quick-fading fad of the micro mini and the oversized tote. If looking for a classic designer purchase for spring, its size and shape will be worth the investment as this silhouette will never go out of style.
8.Maxi Tube Dress
A classy addition to this year's trends, the 90’s era tube dress is back on the “It List” for spring. The strapless design is chicly versatile with a range of looks to be achieved. From the office paired with a blazer and a boot or a weekend outing with sexy sleek heels, this is an item you’ll want to wear all summer. Opt for a cotton/spandex mixed material as a comfortable choice for an everyday look or a vegan leather for an effortlessly high fashion moment.
9.Button-Down Long Sleeve
The button-down long sleeve is one of the most loved closet essentials. The versatility is unmatched and the price is unbeatable for the amount of wear one can achieve in this staple piece. Worn open, closed, layered underneath a corset, or wrapped around one's waist, there's more than enough reason to benefit from owning a crisp white button-down top. Pair with leggings and heels for a casual chic moment layered with statement accessories for a classic spring look.
10. Dad Trouser
Trousers are a great option for women who love to stretch the limit of chic workwear. The "Dad Pant" is a classic tailored aesthetic with a high-rise fitted waist and extra long hem, a length perfect for high heels, sneakers, or chunky sandals. Opting for lightweight fabric is also perfect for year-round temperatures. Wear long trousers with a fitted white top, and an oversized black or beige blazer with pointed-toe heels for a sophisticated look day or night.
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Featured image by Edward Berthelot/Getty Images