Healthy lifestyle
A healthy lifestyle is one which helps to keep and improve people's health and well-being.Many governments and non-governmental organizations have made big efforts in healthy lifestyle and health promotion.
Mental Health
Mental health can be considered a very important factor of physical health for the effects it produces on bodily functions. This type of health concerns emotional and cognitive well-being or an absence of mental disorder.
Public health
Public health can be defined in a variety of ways. It can be presented as "the study of the physical, psychosocial and socio-cultural determinants of population health and actions to improve the health of the population.
Reproductive Health
For the UN, reproductive health is a right, like other human rights. This recent concept evokes the good transmission of the genetic heritage from one generation to the next.
Health
Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.
dimanche 4 juin 2017
1 Woman Is Going Viral For Her Life-Saving Curly Hair Tips
Four year transformation, all from learning how to take care of my curls from curlyhair
Learning to properly care for and embrace your curly hair can be a bit of a struggle filled with endless trial and error. One woman finally has it down to a science, but it took her four years to get there. Reddit user capslockramen is going viral on Reddit for sharing the details of her dramatic hair transformation, along with her daily routine for keeping her luscious curls in check.
She posted before-and-after photos that show just how drastic her hair journey has been. The "before" snapshot was taken during her senior year of high school when she "hated" her curls so much that she "got a relaxed curl perm, bleached it blond, and straightened [her] hair five to six days a week, without using quality heat protectant." But that all changed when she went off to college, where she decided to let her blond perm grow out and started experimenting with different products until she found exactly what works best.
Four years later, she's mastered the art of taming her curls and finally loves her springy ringlets just as they are. "I've never felt more in love with my hair," she wrote in the Reddit post. She also shared her step-by-step styling routine, which is detailed below.
- After shower, squeeze excess water from hair.
- Flip head upside down.
- Apply generous amount of Cantu leave-in conditioner. Run fingers through hair to ensure even distribution.
- Scrunch in generous amount of Miss Jessie's MultiCultural Curls cream.
- Scrunch out excess water using a cotton t-shirt.
- Wrap hair in said t-shirt.
- Stand upright again and let hair sit in the shirt about 10 minutes.
- Flip head upside down again and remove t-shirt.
- Dry with hair drying facing toward the scalp. Use a diffuser! Put the heat settings on warm (not hot) with the speed on high.
- Scrunch hair with t-shirt while drying. This part usually takes me like 20 minutes (definitely have to take breaks so all the blood doesn't rush to my head and make me pass out).
- When it's close enough to completely dry, spray with medium-hold hairspray. Stand back up normally and fix where I want the part, hairspray that a little.
- Done!
Once her detailed routine went viral, amassing nearly 800 comments, the woman responded to other users' questions with various other tips and tricks for managing curls every day.
- Make sure your hairstylist cuts your locks while they're dry, and avoid using a razor to thin it.
- She opts for using a shampoo without sulfates three to four times per week.
- Worried about messing up your hair overnight? Try sleeping with a silk cap on or put it in a loose bun using an elastic ribbon as a hair tie.
- Brush out your locks before you shower, not after.
When celebrity hairstylist Oscar Blandi caught wind of this woman's viral hair hacks, he gave additional helpful recommendations for gals with curly manes. Instead of using a t-shirt to dry your hair like the Reddit user suggested, Blandi told Yahoo Beauty how a Turkish towel, which is highly absorbent, may be a better option. "Press the towel on your hair, don't rub it all over your hair," he said. "Rubbing your wet, curly hair will create frizz." After that, apply leave-in conditioner, and then a silicon oil-based product with just a dab of gel. "The combination will keep the hair soft and not crunchy," he said.
At the end of the day, experimentation is key for people with curly hair, but this woman's routine and tips seem like a great place to start if you're looking to kick-start a journey to embracing your ringlets in their gorgeous natural state.
18 Monochromatic Outfit Ideas For When You're in a Hurry but Want to Look Good
When you're in a rush, the fastest route to a stylish outfit is to go monochromatic. You've likely worn this look before, say head-to-toe black? But that's just the beginning. A look at all the top fashion bloggers' feeds reveals anyone can master the art of wearing one solid color or even pattern - stripes if you're feeling bold. Ahead we rounded up several single-color looks that appear well-thought-out and are actually effortless to pull off. Time to brush up on your monochromatic game.
Bill Maher Apologizes For Using a Racial Slur on His Show: "I Regret Saying It"
But really, @BillMaher has got to go. There are no explanations that make this acceptable. http://pic.twitter.com/K5XlEjekQ9
- deray mckesson (@deray) June 3, 2017
During an interview on June 2 with Republican Senator Ben Sasse on Real Time With Bill Maher, comedian and late night talk show host Bill Maher referred to himself as a "n*gga" when Sasse invited him to visit his state of Nebraska and "work in the fields."
"Work in the fields?" Maher asked. "Senator, I am a house n*gga." The racial joke was followed by uncomfortable laughter from the audience and has since landed Maher in hot water over his use of the slur, including sharp criticism from Sasse himself.
The morning after the episode aired, Sasse tweeted about his reaction to Maher's "joke" and his regret that he didn't reprimand the comedian on the spot. "Me just cringing last night wasn't good enough," Sasse wrote in a series of tweets ahead.
Am walking off a redeye from LAX.
3 reflections on @billmaher
1. I'm a 1st Amendment absolutist. Comedians get latitude to cross hard lines.- Ben Sasse (@BenSasse) June 3, 2017
2. But free speech comes with a responsibility to speak up when folks use that word. Me just cringing last night wasn't good enough.
(2of4?) https://t.co/e4Bw8s8tV2- Ben Sasse (@BenSasse) June 3, 2017
3. Here's what I wish I'd been quick enough to say in the moment: "Hold up, why would you think it's OK to use that word?...
(3of4?) https://t.co/mQL6wMEd7W- Ben Sasse (@BenSasse) June 3, 2017
(4of4)
"...The history of the n-word is an attack on universal human dignity. It's therefore an attack on the American Creed. Don't use it." https://t.co/kEZm5vPFHK- Ben Sasse (@BenSasse) June 3, 2017
Maher has since apologized for the comment, releasing a statement through his publicist, stating:
"Friday nights are always my worst night of sleep because I'm up reflecting on the things I should or shouldn't have said on my live show. Last night was a particularly long night as I regret the word I used in the banter of a live moment. The word was offensive and I regret saying it and am very sorry."
As expected, Maher's off-color joke also sparked major outrage across social media, with some even calling for his show to be canceled. According to a statement from Quentin Schaffer, a spokesman for HBO, the cable network will omit the racial slur moment from future airings of the episode. Schaffer also called Maher's comments "completely inexcusable and tasteless."
This isn't the first time Maher's words have landed him in the hot seat. In 2001, following the 9/11 terrorist attack, Maher referred to American soldiers as "cowards" for "lobbing cruise missiles from 2,000 miles away" on his former late night talk show, Politically Incorrect. At the time, Maher was expressing disagreement with then-president George W. Bush's statements that the terrorists who attacked the US were cowards. Maher's Comedy Central show was canceled less than a year later.
Read on to see what others had to say about Maher's latest controversy ahead.
Someone please tell Maher that just because he has a black woman fetish doesn't give him a special license to use the n* word
- Sonya (@Monique_Sonya) June 3, 2017
People shocked at Bill Maher being racist-y, check w your Arab & Muslim friends. Been doing this for a LONG time, but he got hall passes.
- Wajahat Ali (@WajahatAli) June 3, 2017
Bill Maher has uttered every epithet but the actual N-word for years. Bill is the white liberal we've warned you about.
- Vilissa Thompson (@VilissaThompson) June 3, 2017
Maher has been sexist, ableist, islamophobic, and racist for a long time. If this is the incident that gets you to turn him off ... good. https://t.co/VdQ3GDc1d2
- David M. Perry (@Lollardfish) June 3, 2017
.@billmaher is partly a result of permissive silence.
Folks gave him passes for Islamophobia, transphobia, sexism... and now?
Case closed.- Brittany Packnett (@MsPackyetti) June 3, 2017
WATCH: For those of you who are wondering why @billmaher can't say the N-word, even in a joke, Oprah can tell you why. SMH. http://pic.twitter.com/NxwRAwjupT
- Yashar Ali (@yashar) June 3, 2017
25 Great Summer Dinner Ideas For Families
Warm weather may mean it's time to break out the BBQ, but it also means putting some of those standby soups, stews, and other hearty meals on the back burner for the season. If you're searching for Summer dinner inspiration for your family, look no further. These 25 recipe ideas feature seasonal ingredients and are sure to satisfy parents and kids alike. Eat up!
18 Monochromatic Outfit Ideas For When You're in a Hurry but Want to Look Good
When you're in a rush, the fastest route to a stylish outfit is to go monochromatic. You've likely worn this look before, say head-to-toe black? But that's just the beginning. A look at all the top fashion bloggers' feeds reveals anyone can master the art of wearing one solid color or even pattern - stripes if you're feeling bold. Ahead we rounded up several single-color looks that appear well-thought-out and are actually effortless to pull off. Time to brush up on your monochromatic game.
16 Cooking Questions You're Always Googling, Answered
Learning how to cook doesn't come without its fair share of failures. And if you're one of those people who still googles "how to tell when chicken is done" no matter how many times you've cooked it, you're not alone! We've rounded up a handful of some of the most common cooking questions - plus their answers and recipes - so that you can remember the answer the next time you come across a dilemma in the kitchen.
Have You Ever Seen a Royal Wearing a Bubble Ponytail? This Way, Please
This look confirms what we already knew: Queen Letizia of Spain will wear anything she likes and will do whatever she wants with her hair, even if every other queen in the world is following more demure rules.
First, let's discuss the many love letters we could write to the gray short-sleeved embellished dress the Spanish royal wore to attend the anniversary of Europa Press news agency in Madrid with her husband, King Felipe VI. They would be long, winded, full of red hearts, and talk about how we would do anything to find a way to wear it for just a few minutes.
OK, now that that's out of the way, let's get to the part of Letizia's outfit that truly stole our hearts: her bubble ponytail. That's not a typo - Queen Letizia actually wore the ponytail look you sported all through the '80s and early '90s. She just gave it a tiny upgrade, using sections of her hair to hide the elastic bands that held the style together. Scroll ahead to see every angle of the glorious pony we'll be dreaming about tonight.
Prince Harry Honors the London Bridge Attack Victims During First Visit to Singapore
After meeting with Barack Obama and the team who will represent the UK at the Invictus Games, Prince Harry touched down in Singapore on Sunday to kick off his two-day trip of the country. Upon his arrival, Harry stopped by the Jamiyah Education Centre, where he watched a martial arts match and looked in awe as the competitors took to the mat. He then took part in iftar (the breaking of the fast during Ramadan) by eating porridge and a dish of dates.
Harry also paid tribute to the victims of Saturday's London Bridge attack that left 7 people dead and 30 injured. "Let peace and harmony prevail in communities all over the world," he said as the call to prayer was made by Islamic scholar Muhammad Rafiuddin Ismail. This is Harry's first time in Singapore, and he is expected to attend an Action for Aids reception as well as take part in the Sentebale Royal Salute Polo Cup.
Prince Harry Honors the London Bridge Attack Victims During First Visit to Singapore
After meeting with Barack Obama and the team who will represent the UK at the Invictus Games, Prince Harry touched down in Singapore on Sunday to kick off his two-day trip of the country. Upon his arrival, Harry stopped by the Jamiyah Education Centre, where he watched a martial arts match and looked in awe as the competitors took to the mat. He then took part in iftar (the breaking of the fast during Ramadan) by eating porridge and a dish of dates.
Harry also paid tribute to the victims of Saturday's London Bridge attack that left 7 people dead and 30 injured. "Let peace and harmony prevail in communities all over the world," he said as the call to prayer was made by Islamic scholar Muhammad Rafiuddin Ismail. This is Harry's first time in Singapore, and he is expected to attend an Action for Aids reception as well as take part in the Sentebale Royal Salute Polo Cup.
Have You Ever Seen a Royal Wearing a Bubble Ponytail? This Way, Please
This look confirms what we already knew: Queen Letizia of Spain will wear anything she likes and will do whatever she wants with her hair, even if every other queen in the world is following more demure rules.
First, let's discuss the many love letters we could write to the gray short-sleeved embellished dress the Spanish royal wore to attend the anniversary of Europa Press news agency in Madrid with her husband, King Felipe VI. They would be long, winded, full of red hearts, and talk about how we would do anything to find a way to wear it for just a few minutes.
OK, now that that's out of the way, let's get to the part of Letizia's outfit that truly stole our hearts: her bubble ponytail. That's not a typo - Queen Letizia actually wore the ponytail look you sported all through the '80s and early '90s. She just gave it a tiny upgrade, using sections of her hair to hide the elastic bands that held the style together. Scroll ahead to see every angle of the glorious pony we'll be dreaming about tonight.
The Meditation You Need to Be Doing Regularly, Based on Your Zodiac Sign
Starting to meditate can be, well, stressful. Our friends at YourTango break it down by zodiac sign to help you find your perfect practice.
Find your zen.
No matter who you are, there's been a time when you feel like you're having a major mental breakdown. Whether it's work, school, family, friends; you've probably had to sit yourself down and say, "pull it together, sister."
We ALL do it: when someone or something is driving you crazy, you take a few deep breaths because it's the only thing that doesn't make you feel like you might explode.
But did you know there's way more to those few deep breaths than you think?
Mindfulness meditation sounds way more intimidating than it is. Basically, it's a way to calm all of those crazy feelings and thoughts in your head and focuses you in on the present, physically and mentally.
It's easy to get caught up in the little things and forget to pay attention to your body, mind, and soul.
There's a meditation for everyone.
Whether you need one that grounds you and reminds you what you're grateful for or one that helps you cool down after a big fight with your boyfriend, taking the time to breathe, think, and be present makes a HUGE difference on your attitude and perspective.
Your zodiac sign can highlight your weaknesses and flaws, which is exactly why finding a meditation, based on your zodiac sign, can help you truly understand what you need to be focusing on in your life.
Aries (March 21 - April 19)
You struggle with the idea of being inactive and unproductive, but luckily you also love a challenge, so this compassion meditation is a great exercise for you.
You can be very impatient with people and come off as moody and aggressive.
This meditation will help you increase your compassion for others as well as get rid of some of that frustration and aggression you impulsively feel.
READ: 13 Brutal Truths About Loving An Aries (As Written By An Aries)
Taurus (April 20 - May 20)
You are about as stubborn as they come, and often struggle with sudden changes or inconsistency. Change meditation will help you get rid of that close-mindedness you feel towards new situations and experiences.
You can open yourself up to being accepting of spontaneous acts and become aware of your uncompromising attitude, which will eventually lead to less stress and anger.
READ: 5 Brutal Truths About Loving A Taurus (As Written By A Taurus)
Gemini (May 21 - June 20)
You love being fast-paced and quick to learn, but this meditation will help you slow down and focus on your physical and mental states.
You tend to feel nervous and unsettled, which can get in the way of your usual fun and social attitude.
This engaging your senses meditation can help with depression and sadness, but it also helps you be present by settling your nerves and making you aware of everything you see, touch, feel, taste and smell.
READ: 13 Brutal Truths About Loving A Gemini (As Written By One)
Cancer (June 21 - July 22)
You truly feel your emotions more than any other sign, which makes meditation a really useful tool for honing in those sad or depressed thoughts.
You may be extremely compassionate towards others, but you can be very negative when it comes to yourself, which makes a body scan meditation the perfect mediation for you.
A Body Scan settles all your fearful or depressing thoughts and reinforces contentment.
READ: 5 Brutal Truths About Loving A Cancer (As Written By A Cancer)
Leo (July 23 - August 22)
Although you are one of the most generous signs, there are moments when your arrogant and irrational side comes out. This Great Compassion meditation helps you focus on joy, happiness and loving others while getting rid of those insecurities that reflect your arrogance.
Even though facing reality can be challenging for you, this meditation will open you up to be vulnerable with yourself and acknowledge your capacity for loving others.
READ: 6 Brutal Truths About Loving A Leo (As Written By A Leo)
Virgo (August 23 - September 22)
You can take yourself very seriously, which can be beneficial in some instances but can also cause you to be overly critical of everyone, including yourself.
This joy meditation will let you relax from your usual rigidness by instilling positive thoughts and feelings like contentment and enthusiasm.
This will help you combat some of the critical thoughts you have towards the world, and get rid of any negative energy that's holding you back.
READ: 7 Brutal Truths About Loving A Virgo (As Written By A Virgo)
Libra (September 23 - October 22)
You can be a very gracious and social person, but underneath you have just as much insecurity as anyone else.
Relax, Ground, and Clear is a meditation that helps ground you in a way that reduces all the fears and worries that can appear throughout the day.
Self-pity is a major struggle of yours, and this meditation will put everything into perspective so you can live a more positive life.
READ: 11 Brutal Truths About Loving A Libra (As Written By A Libra)
Scorpio (October 23 - November 21)
Your greatest weakness is your distrust and jealousy towards others.
This gratitude meditation will allow you to try and get rid of any of the judgments you have towards others and reinforce ideas of happiness and positivity, allowing you to be grateful for the people in your life.
You may feel like no one really knows who you are, but by opening your mind up to the idea of gratitude will allow you to trust and be trusted by others.
READ: 14 Brutal Truths About Loving A Scorpio (As Written By A Scorpio)
Sagittarius (November 22 - December 21)
You struggle with a lack of adventure and discovery, but luckily a Mindful Walk is a perfect meditation for you.
You are sometimes quick to speak (even when you REALLY shouldn't), and a mindful walk is a great way to get away and reflect on your reactions during a stressful time.
Because you're so impatient, you often feel unsettled both physically and mentally. A mindful walk will calm your thoughts and worries, allowing you to increase your patience.
READ: 7 Brutal Truths About Loving A Sagittarius (As Written By One)
Capricorn (December 22 - January 19)
You are an intellectual, serious being, and it can be difficult when not everyone around you is the same way. You struggle with being unforgiving and condescending, lacking any sort of understanding for others.
This Equanimity meditation will allow you to connect to your open and accepting side and help you work away from your short-tempered attitude towards others.
You'll better control the arrogant and snarky parts of your personality by appreciating the non-judgemental side of yourself.
READ: 7 Brutal Truths About Loving A Capricorn (As Written By One)
Aquarius (January 20 - February 18)
Even though you would rather run away from your problems and avoid any kind of emotional expression, the deep-thinker in you knows it's not as productive.
This Cause and Effect meditation can help you go easier on yourself when it comes to your fear of vulnerability.
You often times come off as aloof and uninviting because of your serious nature, but this meditation will allow you to focus more on being kind towards the people around you, and the good that can come out of it.
READ: 7 Brutal Truths About Loving An Aquarius (As Written By One)
Pisces (February 19 - March 20)
Because you are always so selfless and loving towards others, you forget to give yourself some of that love, too.
The Commonality of Suffering meditation allows you to acknowledge the sadness and loneliness that you feel and relieves some of that fear.
You fear being criticized, but this meditation shows you that you are not alone in your suffering and that through loving yourself and preserving, others will do the same.
READ: 7 Brutal Truths About Loving A Pisces (As Written By A Pisces)
More from our friends at YourTango:
25 Great Summer Dinner Ideas For Families
Warm weather may mean it's time to break out the BBQ, but it also means putting some of those standby soups, stews, and other hearty meals on the back burner for the season. If you're searching for Summer dinner inspiration for your family, look no further. These 25 recipe ideas feature seasonal ingredients and are sure to satisfy parents and kids alike. Eat up!
The Meditation You Need to Be Doing Regularly, Based on Your Zodiac Sign
Starting to meditate can be, well, stressful. Our friends at YourTango break it down by zodiac sign to help you find your perfect practice.
Find your zen.
No matter who you are, there's been a time when you feel like you're having a major mental breakdown. Whether it's work, school, family, friends; you've probably had to sit yourself down and say, "pull it together, sister."
We ALL do it: when someone or something is driving you crazy, you take a few deep breaths because it's the only thing that doesn't make you feel like you might explode.
But did you know there's way more to those few deep breaths than you think?
Mindfulness meditation sounds way more intimidating than it is. Basically, it's a way to calm all of those crazy feelings and thoughts in your head and focuses you in on the present, physically and mentally.
It's easy to get caught up in the little things and forget to pay attention to your body, mind, and soul.
There's a meditation for everyone.
Whether you need one that grounds you and reminds you what you're grateful for or one that helps you cool down after a big fight with your boyfriend, taking the time to breathe, think, and be present makes a HUGE difference on your attitude and perspective.
Your zodiac sign can highlight your weaknesses and flaws, which is exactly why finding a meditation, based on your zodiac sign, can help you truly understand what you need to be focusing on in your life.
Aries (March 21 - April 19)
You struggle with the idea of being inactive and unproductive, but luckily you also love a challenge, so this compassion meditation is a great exercise for you.
You can be very impatient with people and come off as moody and aggressive.
This meditation will help you increase your compassion for others as well as get rid of some of that frustration and aggression you impulsively feel.
READ: 13 Brutal Truths About Loving An Aries (As Written By An Aries)
Taurus (April 20 - May 20)
You are about as stubborn as they come, and often struggle with sudden changes or inconsistency. Change meditation will help you get rid of that close-mindedness you feel towards new situations and experiences.
You can open yourself up to being accepting of spontaneous acts and become aware of your uncompromising attitude, which will eventually lead to less stress and anger.
READ: 5 Brutal Truths About Loving A Taurus (As Written By A Taurus)
Gemini (May 21 - June 20)
You love being fast-paced and quick to learn, but this meditation will help you slow down and focus on your physical and mental states.
You tend to feel nervous and unsettled, which can get in the way of your usual fun and social attitude.
This engaging your senses meditation can help with depression and sadness, but it also helps you be present by settling your nerves and making you aware of everything you see, touch, feel, taste and smell.
READ: 13 Brutal Truths About Loving A Gemini (As Written By One)
Cancer (June 21 - July 22)
You truly feel your emotions more than any other sign, which makes meditation a really useful tool for honing in those sad or depressed thoughts.
You may be extremely compassionate towards others, but you can be very negative when it comes to yourself, which makes a body scan meditation the perfect mediation for you.
A Body Scan settles all your fearful or depressing thoughts and reinforces contentment.
READ: 5 Brutal Truths About Loving A Cancer (As Written By A Cancer)
Leo (July 23 - August 22)
Although you are one of the most generous signs, there are moments when your arrogant and irrational side comes out. This Great Compassion meditation helps you focus on joy, happiness and loving others while getting rid of those insecurities that reflect your arrogance.
Even though facing reality can be challenging for you, this meditation will open you up to be vulnerable with yourself and acknowledge your capacity for loving others.
READ: 6 Brutal Truths About Loving A Leo (As Written By A Leo)
Virgo (August 23 - September 22)
You can take yourself very seriously, which can be beneficial in some instances but can also cause you to be overly critical of everyone, including yourself.
This joy meditation will let you relax from your usual rigidness by instilling positive thoughts and feelings like contentment and enthusiasm.
This will help you combat some of the critical thoughts you have towards the world, and get rid of any negative energy that's holding you back.
READ: 7 Brutal Truths About Loving A Virgo (As Written By A Virgo)
Libra (September 23 - October 22)
You can be a very gracious and social person, but underneath you have just as much insecurity as anyone else.
Relax, Ground, and Clear is a meditation that helps ground you in a way that reduces all the fears and worries that can appear throughout the day.
Self-pity is a major struggle of yours, and this meditation will put everything into perspective so you can live a more positive life.
READ: 11 Brutal Truths About Loving A Libra (As Written By A Libra)
Scorpio (October 23 - November 21)
Your greatest weakness is your distrust and jealousy towards others.
This gratitude meditation will allow you to try and get rid of any of the judgments you have towards others and reinforce ideas of happiness and positivity, allowing you to be grateful for the people in your life.
You may feel like no one really knows who you are, but by opening your mind up to the idea of gratitude will allow you to trust and be trusted by others.
READ: 14 Brutal Truths About Loving A Scorpio (As Written By A Scorpio)
Sagittarius (November 22 - December 21)
You struggle with a lack of adventure and discovery, but luckily a Mindful Walk is a perfect meditation for you.
You are sometimes quick to speak (even when you REALLY shouldn't), and a mindful walk is a great way to get away and reflect on your reactions during a stressful time.
Because you're so impatient, you often feel unsettled both physically and mentally. A mindful walk will calm your thoughts and worries, allowing you to increase your patience.
READ: 7 Brutal Truths About Loving A Sagittarius (As Written By One)
Capricorn (December 22 - January 19)
You are an intellectual, serious being, and it can be difficult when not everyone around you is the same way. You struggle with being unforgiving and condescending, lacking any sort of understanding for others.
This Equanimity meditation will allow you to connect to your open and accepting side and help you work away from your short-tempered attitude towards others.
You'll better control the arrogant and snarky parts of your personality by appreciating the non-judgemental side of yourself.
READ: 7 Brutal Truths About Loving A Capricorn (As Written By One)
Aquarius (January 20 - February 18)
Even though you would rather run away from your problems and avoid any kind of emotional expression, the deep-thinker in you knows it's not as productive.
This Cause and Effect meditation can help you go easier on yourself when it comes to your fear of vulnerability.
You often times come off as aloof and uninviting because of your serious nature, but this meditation will allow you to focus more on being kind towards the people around you, and the good that can come out of it.
READ: 7 Brutal Truths About Loving An Aquarius (As Written By One)
Pisces (February 19 - March 20)
Because you are always so selfless and loving towards others, you forget to give yourself some of that love, too.
The Commonality of Suffering meditation allows you to acknowledge the sadness and loneliness that you feel and relieves some of that fear.
You fear being criticized, but this meditation shows you that you are not alone in your suffering and that through loving yourself and preserving, others will do the same.
READ: 7 Brutal Truths About Loving A Pisces (As Written By A Pisces)
More from our friends at YourTango:
12 Stunning Makeup Looks Inspired by All of the Zodiac Signs
We bet Mercury wasn't in retrograde when makeup artist Kimberly Money transformed herself into 12 characters inspired by zodiac signs. To live out horoscopes IRL, she rocks multiple hair colors, from fiery red to icy periwinkle, and makes over her eyes in mesmerizing ways (seriously, just check out Aquarius's glitter tears).
"I grew up in Vietnam where the zodiac signs are very popular, so I always wanted to make a series out of it since I love doing makeup and photography," Kimberly told POPSUGAR via email on what inspired this stunning project.
Though she is not an astrologer, a lot of thought went into crafting each look. "I choose the looks based on my experience with people around me with the signs," she said. "I also do some research online on which colors fit with the looks most. This series represents how I see these signs in my imagination and bring it to reality."
She looks gorgeous in all of the horoscope looks, but we still had to know which one was hers. "I'm a Libra," she admitted. "I feel like it represents me very well. I always looking for balance in life and love spending time alone working on things that I love, such as makeup. Also, this look I chose especially for this sign is my favorite combo, and smoky eyes are my go-to!"
Keep reading to see every beautiful style, and tell us: does your month represent you?
Recall Alert! Frozen Tuna Tested Positive For Hepatitis A
On June 1, the Food and Drug Administration released a statement about its ongoing investigation into potentially contaminated frozen tuna distributed by Hilo Fish. According to the report, the Hawaii Department of Health first discovered the contagious hepatitis A virus in samples of frozen tuna on May 1. Shortly after, on May 18, Hilo Fish Company launched an official recall of tuna from Sustainable Seafood Company and Santa Cruz Seafood, Inc.
So far, there haven't been any illnesses reported in conjunction with the potential frozen tuna contamination, but the Center for Disease Control (CDC) is advising anyone from Texas, Oklahoma, and California who hasn't been vaccinated for the hepatitis A virus and ate raw or under-cooked tuna products in the past two weeks to get treated with post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP).
Keep reading to see a list of all of the frozen tuna products that have been recalled so far, and make sure to toss out anything that may be affected!
- Frozen Yellowfin tuna steaks from Sustainable Seafood Company
- Yellowfin tuna cubes from Santa Cruz Seafood
- 8 ounce Tuna Steaks from Hilo Fish Company with an expiration date of Oct. 1, 2018
- 15 pound Frozen Yellowfin tuna cubes with an expiration date of April 4, 2019
For extra precaution, the FDA has also provided a list of restaurants and other retail establishments that received the recalled frozen tuna. Better safe than sorry!
What Causes Turbulence - and Is it Actually Dangerous?
Truth be told, the real reason I hate turbulence is because it means the food and beverage service is postponed. Some travelers, especially nervous flyers, start to see their lives flash before their eyes during periods of turbulence. We're all probably guilty of muttering a little prayer (or curse) when things really start rocking on board.
But what is turbulence, exactly? What causes it, and is it truly dangerous? Many flight attendants and pilots will tell you that fear of turbulence is unfounded, since there's little chance it could ever actually cause a plane to crash. However, turbulence - particularly clear air turbulence - can cause injuries and even death, especially if its unexpected, extreme, and passengers and crew are not buckled in when it occurs.
"Everything about it seems dangerous, Except that, in all but the rarest circumstances, it's not."
Unsurprisingly, wind is one cause of both high-altitude and low-altitude turbulence. Low-altitude turbulence can occur when heavy gusts of wind blow during takeoffs and landings. It can also be a result of rising air, according to Menno Kroon, a pilot for KLM airlines. "At higher altitudes, turbulence arises when air rises vertically - from low to high," says the airline. "This works as follows: the sun warms the earth and the air above it. Hot air expands and rises. This causes what we call an updraft."
Jet streams, winds around mountain ranges, and another plane's wake vortex - turbulence from an aircraft itself - are other causes of the issue.
Luckily, most of the time, pilots know where turbulence is going to be based on the radar, outside conditions that are visible (cumulus clouds can mean trouble), preflight weather reports, and information received from other planes flying through the area. This allows them to prepare - the seat belt sign lighting up isn't for your annoyance but for your safety when turbulence is expected. Patrick Smith, an active pilot and author of Cockpit Confidential, reiterates how common it is on his site Ask the Pilot.
"Everything about it seems dangerous," says Smith. "Except that, in all but the rarest circumstances, it's not. For all intents and purposes, a plane cannot be flipped upside down, thrown into a tailspin, or otherwise flung from the sky by even the mightiest gust or air pocket. Conditions might be annoying and uncomfortable, but the plane is not going to crash. Turbulence is an aggravating nuisance for everybody, including the crew, but it's also, for lack of a better term, normal."
There you have it. Despite this, it's totally understandable to feel a little anxious when you're trapped on board a giant metal tube 30,000 feet in the air and that metal tube is mimicking a roller coaster ride. But rest assured, it is, as they say, normal.
We're Trying to Keep Up With All of Kourtney Kardashian's Amazing Style Moments
Kourtney Kardashian has always been the sister with the funny one-liners in the Kardashian-Jenner clan, but when it comes to fashion, she usually plays it safer than, say, her sister Kim. While it's no secret that this Kourtney keeps it 100 with her a steamy bikini-grams, it's her latest fashion statements that have been grabbing our attention recently.
Kourtney has proved she has a style game all her own in pieces like these amazing monogrammed PVC heels and chic LWDs that are perfect for Summer. Scroll on to have a look at some of her most fashionable moments and shop similar pieces for yourself.
We Would Do Unforgivable Things to Get Our Hands on These 27 Denim Dresses
A cute denim dress is one of the smartest purchases you could make. Not only does it literally match anything, but it also works year-round. Denim looks just as great during the Summer as it does during the Winter. Come the cold months you can wear these dresses with a great pair of boots and a statement jacket. Additionally, the fabric is durable and easy to clean, so it will last you many seasons. Sold on a denim dress yet? Wait until you see our favorite picks. It's going to be impossible to choose.
Everything We Know About Jaclyn Hill's Morphe Palette So Far
Update: Though the palette was supposed to launch in March, Jaclyn has shared that the palette is finally coming this June and will contain 35 new shadows with new textures. "This palette has several different formulas to create any eye look you desire!" she said in a post to Instagram. She added, "This will be launching end of June. I will give you the exact launch date on June 5th." Stay tuned for updates on this product's debut!
Original story: Following the success of her previous collections with Becca Cosmetics and Morphe, Jaclyn Hill is back with another supercharged collaboration that has left the beauty industry buzzing. On Jan. 20, the makeup artist officially announced she would be releasing a palette with Morphe, which she has previously worked with on a line of brushes.
In an Instagram post, Jaclyn said she has been working on the palette for two years and it will finally become available this March, adding, "I was SO picky with the pigmentation, application & blend-ability. Our goal was to create something high quality with an affordable price." While Jaclyn has yet to divulge all of the details surrounding the palette, she did take to Snapchat to swatch some of the shades and reveal the logo design. It has been reported that the palette will offer a whopping 35 shades.
Following the news, some sleuthing fans saw that a bakery based in California's San Fernando Valley - where Morphe is also headquartered - created a cake inspired by the highly anticipated palette. While the cake does have a note from Jaclyn inscribed on it, Jaclyn later clarified that her palette does not look like the cake.
Jaclyn also recently shared pictures from a promotional shoot with her Snapchat followers. It appears that the shoot was in honor of the palette, as she made sure to conceal any of the products used on set. Then, on Feb. 1, Jaclyn unveiled one particular shadow that will double as a highlighter. We will continue to update this story as it continues to develop, but in the meantime, scroll ahead for a sneak peek.
Here's What the Royal Family Prefers to Call Kate Middleton
Kate Middleton has been in the spotlight ever since she began dating Prince William back in 2003. While she typically goes by the title the Duchess of Cambridge, Kate is also known as Princess William of Wales or simply Kate Middleton. Still, Prince William often refers to her as Catherine given that she was born Catherine Elizabeth Middleton. While growing up in the English village of Bucklebury, she was known as Catherine among her friends and family, and it wasn't until she went to the University of St. Andrews that she garnered the nickname "Kate."
Kate married William in 2011, and that's when she officially became Catherine Elizabeth, Her Royal Highness the Duchess of Cambridge, as listed on Prince George's birth certificate. Just like William, the palace also refers to Kate as Catherine. During an interview with BBC's Radio 1 in April, Scott Mills questioned the fact that Prince Harry referred to his sister-in-law as "Cath" in a recent video, asking, "Everyone calls you Kate, don't they?" "I will answer to most things," she replied. Well, there you have it.
Nas on President Trump: "We All Know a Racist Is in Office"
Nas may be known for his eye-opening rap lyrics, but now, he's speaking out on our current political climate and has a lot to say about President Donald Trump. The rapper recently penned a passionate open letter directed at the president, where he asks the public to act and not silence ourselves during this presidency.
"We all know a racist is in office," Nas wrote for Mass Appeal. "People can talk their sh*t. Comedians can sound racist. People can go through their moments of that sh*t, but when you have the responsibility of being president and you carry on like that, you send a strong message to people outside of your group that they ain't worth sh*t."
Nas is unquestionably one of the most politically aware rappers our country has seen, and his letter to President Trump reasserts that. He explains that the president's morals and messages often make minorities feel like they "ain't worth sh*t."
While Nas doesn't vote nor does he "pay attention to politics," he believes his actions are enough. "My way of addressing these issues is through my work. Whatever president may be in office doesn't affect my work directly. The way he affects people is what affects me," Nas wrote. "My focus is on what's happening with real people in their everyday lives. How they behave, the decisions they make, and how that affects families. I grew up in a single-parent household, so I was affected by that life. But it didn't stop me. So I speak to the everyday people. I speak to everybody. If the people are bothered by it, I speak on it. If the people are bothered and want change, I speak on that."
He wrote that former President Barack Obama followed his dreams, but it doesn't change the fact that racism is still incredibly prevalent and he believes Trump has only made it worse.
"But Barack Obama changed the game so that now, whether you're a woman or Latino or whoever, you can feel that running for office can be a real goal. Winning the election could be real for someone in this country, if that's what you want," he added. "I'm doing all the things I ever dreamed of, even though there was a Ronald Reagan, even though there was laws that ruthlessly destroyed the black community, put tons of us in prison on trumped-up charges, and put us in jail for a long time over crimes that other people get a smack on the hand for. It's basically slavery."
Nas is asking people to act and acknowledge these issues, because remaining silent won't change anything. He closed his letter with some advice: "I don't got time for lippin'. I got time for actions. Anytime I'm speaking it's action."
Action. https://t.co/bfbPVupHKo
- Nasir Jones (@Nas) May 30, 2017
We're Trying to Keep Up With All of Kourtney Kardashian's Amazing Style Moments
Kourtney Kardashian has always been the sister with the funny one-liners in the Kardashian-Jenner clan, but when it comes to fashion, she usually plays it safer than, say, her sister Kim. While it's no secret that this Kourtney keeps it 100 with her a steamy bikini-grams, it's her latest fashion statements that have been grabbing our attention recently.
Kourtney has proved she has a style game all her own in pieces like these amazing monogrammed PVC heels and chic LWDs that are perfect for Summer. Scroll on to have a look at some of her most fashionable moments and shop similar pieces for yourself.
We Would Do Unforgivable Things to Get Our Hands on These 27 Denim Dresses
A cute denim dress is one of the smartest purchases you could make. Not only does it literally match anything, but it also works year-round. Denim looks just as great during the Summer as it does during the Winter. Come the cold months you can wear these dresses with a great pair of boots and a statement jacket. Additionally, the fabric is durable and easy to clean, so it will last you many seasons. Sold on a denim dress yet? Wait until you see our favorite picks. It's going to be impossible to choose.
How Kylie Jenner Reacted to Rihanna's Makeup Line - According to the Internet
As soon as news broke about Rihanna's hotly anticipated makeup line, Fenty Beauty, we've been keeping our eyes peeled for any details on when it hits shelves. On May 31, the singer finally put our curiosity to rest and confirmed on social media that the line will launch this Fall (*cue excessive cheering and tears of joy*). But it seems like not everyone's sharing our same excitement about Bad Gal RiRi's upcoming line.
Some have been speculating that one person in particular - Kylie Jenner - is probably not too thrilled to have another celebrity makeup mogul burst onto the scene to steal her spotlight. Many witty Twitter users are taking to social media to share what they believe Jenner really thinks about Fenty Beauty, and their predictions are pretty darn hilarious.
Some imagined Kylie was just straight-up not pleased when she heard about the launch.
Kylie Jenner when she saw Rihanna posted about Fenty x Beauty http://pic.twitter.com/m0UcbxusKK
- Rihanna's lips (@badgal4rihanna) May 31, 2017
@KylieJenner and @rihanna become beauty rivals. Here's Kylie's reaction when she heard about Riri's new Fenty Beauty makeup line #salty http://pic.twitter.com/VlB5WY9C9r
- Maria Rios (@mriosesc) June 2, 2017
Others thought she probably started searching for a new job - as a fast-food restaurant employee.
kylie jenner when fenty beauty launches http://pic.twitter.com/bQVjd0e9U1
- sean (@lanadeIfenty) May 31, 2017
Many predicted she had an over-the-top meltdown about the situation.
Actual footage of Kylie Jenner when she heard Rihanna was launching Fenty Beauty http://pic.twitter.com/josMDV556k
- Luke (@HausOfLukee) June 1, 2017
kylie when she saw rihanna's post about fenty beauty http://pic.twitter.com/9tkePQFL0v
- dani (@runwayrih) May 31, 2017
And one genius Twitter user couldn't help but bring up that patented ugly-cry that all members of the Kardashian-Jenner clan apparently do.
Kylie Jenner's reaction after Rihanna posted a pic about FENTY BEAUTY ! http://pic.twitter.com/9lECZ59jC1
- Rihanna (@VFT6Anti) May 31, 2017
So, how do you think Kylie reacted IRL?
Everything We Know About Jaclyn Hill's Morphe Palette So Far
Update: Though the palette was supposed to launch in March, Jaclyn has shared that the palette is finally coming this June and will contain 35 new shadows with new textures. "This palette has several different formulas to create any eye look you desire!" she said in a post to Instagram. She added, "This will be launching end of June. I will give you the exact launch date on June 5th." Stay tuned for updates on this product's debut!
Original story: Following the success of her previous collections with Becca Cosmetics and Morphe, Jaclyn Hill is back with another supercharged collaboration that has left the beauty industry buzzing. On Jan. 20, the makeup artist officially announced she would be releasing a palette with Morphe, which she has previously worked with on a line of brushes.
In an Instagram post, Jaclyn said she has been working on the palette for two years and it will finally become available this March, adding, "I was SO picky with the pigmentation, application & blend-ability. Our goal was to create something high quality with an affordable price." While Jaclyn has yet to divulge all of the details surrounding the palette, she did take to Snapchat to swatch some of the shades and reveal the logo design. It has been reported that the palette will offer a whopping 35 shades.
Following the news, some sleuthing fans saw that a bakery based in California's San Fernando Valley - where Morphe is also headquartered - created a cake inspired by the highly anticipated palette. While the cake does have a note from Jaclyn inscribed on it, Jaclyn later clarified that her palette does not look like the cake.
Jaclyn also recently shared pictures from a promotional shoot with her Snapchat followers. It appears that the shoot was in honor of the palette, as she made sure to conceal any of the products used on set. Then, on Feb. 1, Jaclyn unveiled one particular shadow that will double as a highlighter. We will continue to update this story as it continues to develop, but in the meantime, scroll ahead for a sneak peek.
Orange Is the New Black: Your Ultimate Guide to the Flashbacks
Orange Is the New Black is a complex show. It's constantly darting back and forth between the present day and the past, and over the course of four seasons, there have been a hell of a lot of flashbacks. We've found out why a lot of the inmates are in prison and gotten some general looks back at their previous lives. There are a few inmates we want to know more about, but hopefully we'll get to see their flashbacks in season five. Until then, here is the ultimate guide to every flashback we've gotten!
This Viral Video of a Newborn Pretty Much Walking Out of the Womb Is Making Jaws Drop
There are quite a few newborn videos that will leave you speechless. From the talented infant "popping out" to clip of a baby being "unwrapped" after an en caul birth, but we've never seen a grand entrance quite like this little one from Brazil.
In a viral video posted on Facebook, Arlete Arantes shared incredible footage of a newborn taking her first steps in the delivery room when nurses were getting ready for her first bath. Not much is known about the impressive infant but you can see in the video that the baby didn't just make a movement that people are confusing for a step - this child is seriously on the go! It looks like the lucky parents may want to get a head start on baby-proofing because they're going to have their hands full . . .
The Hardcore Hike Leading to This Secret Water Slide in Hawaii Is a Wild Adventure
Hidden in Waipio Valley, HI, is a 35-foot water slide that looks like something straight out of a story book. Why is this incredible slide so secret? Well, the hike to get there, known as the White Road Hike, is difficult and dangerous. In fact, state officials would prefer that you didn't take the trail. You have to make your way through dim tunnels and winding jungle paths to make it to this epic location.
Despite the potential risks, many people still journey to the secret slide so they can experience it for themselves. It's made out of an irrigation flume that transported sugar cane over a century ago. In order to get to the top of the slide, you have to hang onto a rope as you climb up a steep hill. Since you're technically not supposed to go to this wildly thrilling location, you can just enjoy the pictures and videos of other adventurous visitors.
Head over to our Snapchat today for more natural water slides to add to your bucket list!
Orange Is the New Black: Your Ultimate Guide to the Flashbacks
Orange Is the New Black is a complex show. It's constantly darting back and forth between the present day and the past, and over the course of four seasons, there have been a hell of a lot of flashbacks. We've found out why a lot of the inmates are in prison and gotten some general looks back at their previous lives. There are a few inmates we want to know more about, but hopefully we'll get to see their flashbacks in season five. Until then, here is the ultimate guide to every flashback we've gotten!
Here's the Otherworldly Beauty Who Plays Wonder Woman's Mom
While Gal Gadot is undeniably the star of Wonder Woman (it's right there in the title), another Amazonian goddess may catch your eye in the new superhero film. Hippolyta is queen of the Amazons, and she's very protective over her daughter, Princess Diana. Her steely stare could turn an ocean into a series of icebergs, and she's played by a women who you've very likely seen elsewhere.
Actress Connie Nielsen hails from Denmark. She got her start in the late '80s, making the transition from Danish TV to American films in the '90s. She scored a smaller part in 1997's The Devil's Advocate, but she probably first caught your attention as Mrs. Calloway in Rushmore, Lucilla in Gladiator (pictured below), or Nina in One Hour Photo.
However, if you're like me, you know her best as Dani Beck, the detective who momentarily replaces Olivia Benson as Elliot Stabler's partner on Law & Order: SVU. (LOL, like anyone could replace Olivia.) Additionally, she's had arcs on Boss, The Following, and The Good Wife. The more you know!
You Better Believe Ed Sheeran Sings His Old Hits During Carpool Karaoke
James Corden is taking The Late Late Show across the pond to his native London next week, and one of our favorite English singers will also be joining in on the fun. On Tuesday, Ed Sheeran will star in his first ever Carpool Karaoke session, and the sneak peek already looks amazing. Not only does he bring his guitar along for the ride as he sings "Castle on the Hill," but it looks like he'll be jamming out to some of his older hits as well. Fingers crossed he'll perform "The A Team."
Couples Reveal the 1 Thing They Won't Tell Their Friends
Everyone has secrets or things that he or she doesn't want to share with anyone. Why would couples be any different? That intimacy and closeness has to come with a large dose of trust and a certain amount of exclusivity. While many couples I asked were hesitant to share anything that could incriminate them, these couples shared some of the funny, serious, and daily things that they don't share with anyone else besides each other!
- "We don't share the amount of money we win or lose when we gamble."
- "I don't tell others when we fight or how much money we make."
- "Neither of us share our fights or our sex life . . . so people think we're the perfect couple. Little do they know!"
- "We don't share what we say when we discuss our future or how lucky we feel to have met each other that sometimes, we just cry. We also hold off on sharing any emotional secrets or things we discuss."
- "We don't share our medical problems or trials."
- "Sometimes, we don't share if we have plans or not, because sometimes, we just want to be left alone, at home together."
- "We don't share our really big dreams - whether they're our individual or family ones. That's the one thing we keep just to each other, and no one else."
- "We can't tell you because we don't share it with others."
It Looks Like Bella Hadid Is Wearing a Regular Bikini Until She Turns Around
What's a supermodel to do when hanging out on a yacht? Have some fun by jumping into the ocean, of course. Bella Hadid showed off her enviable figure while relaxing in Monaco, wearing a high-waisted orange bikini by I Am Zazie that had us blushing.
At first glance, it looks like Bella was wearing a regular bikini until she turned around to reveal the barely-there bottoms. This isn't the first time Bella has worn a thong bikini, and we doubt it'll be the last. Have a look at Bella's bikini and shop similar versions ahead.
Your Handy Guide to the Many, Many Characters in American Gods
The adaptation of Neil Gaiman's sprawling fantasy masterpiece, American Gods, has finally arrived on TV screens. The highly anticipated Starz series follows Shadow Moon (played by Ricky Whittle), an ex-con, who finds himself caught up in a mysterious battle between good and evil after getting out of prison, which involves a very unique cast of characters. Whether you're just now encountering the world of American Gods, or you simply need a refresher on all of the key players, read on to get the low down on everyone involved in Shadow's story.
I Tried That Viral Black Peel-Off Mask So You Definitely Don't Have To
If you've been on social media anytime in the past few months, chances are you've come across a monsoon-like flood of Instagram advertisements and YouTube reviews for the Shills Black Peel-Off Face Mask. The product has earned viral fame and developed a cult-like following of beauty mavens who praise its ability to banish blackheads with just one use. This skin-purifying mask promises to unclog pores of their impurities, leaving your face feeling smooth, exfoliated, and, most importantly, blackhead-free. Sounds pretty glorious, right?
As soon as I stumbled upon an ad about the Shills mask, so many questions came to mind: Does it actually work? How long does it take to show results? And on a scale of 1-10, how bad will it hurt? So I scoured YouTube to see what vloggers had to say about it, and it turned out the reviews were pretty evenly divided. Some admitted it was extremely painful and even caused a little inflammation, while others raved of its pore-cleansing effects and even featured up-close footage of their blackheads getting stripped of dirt and grime as the mask got ripped off.
It's those zoomed-in shots of the pore-stripping action that really drew me in.
I'm not gonna lie: it's those zoomed-in shots of the pore-stripping action that really drew me in. There's something so oddly satisfying about watching it, kind of like seeing Dr. Pimple Popper's blackhead-blasting adventures. (I know, I know; I'm weird.) My curiosity eventually got the best of me, so I decided to take one for the team and try the mask myself (naturally documenting my journey with a plethora of obnoxious selfies and Boomerangs, of course).
I have to preface things by honestly admitting I've been blessed with pretty decent skin. It's by no means a blackhead haven, but I do have tons of pesky clogged pores mostly concentrated around my nose that I've been itching to get rid of (and that I usually resort to squeezing out with my fingertips, despite my mom's best efforts to advise against doing so).
Before you sacrifice your precious pores and hop on the bandwagon, read on for the 11 tips and tidbits you need to know about the infamous Shills mask.
1. There appear to be two different Shills products on the market that people are mixing up
Shills isn't exactly a drugstore mainstay, so many of the brand's products are sold on Amazon. I ended up purchasing mine through a semisketchy website (see tip No. 2 for more details on that) and soon realized there are two different black peel-off masks that people are interchanging.
The two versions are the Purifying Peel-Off Mask and the Acne Purifying Peel-Off Black Mask. The first claims to "increase vitality" and is used by many beauty vloggers who have reviewed it on YouTube. The second claims to "increase complexion" and is sold at Walmart and on the official Shills website. I chose the Purifying Peel-Off Mask, because it's the first one I came across on social media. The difference in how well each of these products removes blackheads is a tad unclear, but it's definitely something to keep in mind if you're planning to purchase one.
2. If you're impatient like me, don't buy it through an Instagram ad
Being the millennial consumer I am, I simply couldn't resist clicking on an ad for the product on Instagram (especially when I saw the word "free" involved in the promotion). That ad took me to a website, which was offering the product for free (plus shipping costs). I paid $13 for it at the time - though the price appears to fluctuate daily because of the high demand. Purchasing it through a random website I'd never heard of was a rookie mistake on my end, because I had to wait three weeks for it to arrive, and when it did arrive, the packaging was pretty beat up. I suggest buying it from Walmart or Amazon, both of which offer quicker shipping times, if you're dying to try it ASAP.
3. Apply the mask using a brush, not your fingertips
Whereas some gals on YouTube excitedly slathered on the goopy liquid with their fingers, others opted for using a makeup brush to do so. This resulted in much cleaner, accurate coverage. I went for a basic foundation brush from the local drugstore and found that I was able to properly cover my face. It also helped me get in those hard-to-reach spots (like between my eyebrows, near my nostrils, and by my hairline). A soft, semitapered foundation brush is definitely the way to go, rather than a large powder brush.
Another upside of using a brush to apply the Shills mask? I didn't have to deal with furiously scrubbing my fingers to get any of the black color off afterward because the brush took the fall instead. I simply dabbed on some dish soap, rubbed it on my silicone brush cleaner, and voila! My brush was good as new again.
4. On that note, apply it very carefully - yet quickly
I'm admittedly a tad of a perfectionist, so I wanted to apply my mask evenly to allow for the best selfies possible (yes, I know that was painfully millennial of me to say). But I realized that the liquid starts to dry pretty quickly, so you have to move fast when slathering it on. That doesn't mean sloppiness is welcomed, as getting that full coverage is what you should be going for. Just make sure you get yourself in ninja-mask-applying mode beforehand.
5. If you do mess something up, I've got the perfect solution
A few times during application, I accidentally veered my brush too closely to my eyebrows and hairline (both of which should 100 percent be avoided). In a moment of panic, I glanced over at the Q-tips in my bathroom and the imaginary light bulb illuminated above my head. A damp cotton swab was the ideal tiny tool for easily wiping away excess mask goop before it was too late. Note: this is a helpful hack you can use with any face mask, not just the Shills one!
6. The mask goes on thick - like, super thick
I was honestly a bit surprised at just how thick the liquid mask is when I first applied it to my face. I assumed I'd need to smear on a few layers, but all I needed was one coat of it, and I was good to go. Now you know!
7. Set aside nearly 30 minutes for it to dry
The packaging advised leaving the mask for 20-30 minutes before getting down to peeling business. I set a timer for 25 minutes and found that to be the perfect sweet spot. By then, the mask was evenly hardened all around, whereas if I had started peeling away around the 20-minute mark, a few patches where I applied it in a slightly thicker coating wouldn't have been ready.
8. Take a deep breath before peeling - and prepare for some pain
I suggest treating it like a bandage - just rip it as quickly as possible to get it over with.One of the major caveats for this mask is just how painful it is to remove. Although I think this aspect has been a tad overhyped all over the internet, I can confirm that it hurt pretty freakin' bad. On a scale of 1-10 (10 being the worst), I'd give it a solid 8. By far the most painful area for removing the mask was near my eyes. I'll just go ahead and admit that unintentional tears may or may not have rolled down my face while ripping it off my skin. I suggest treating it like a bandage in that area - just pull it as quickly (and carefully!) as possible to get it over with.
9. It didn't actually remove any of my blackheads
Lots of happy customers have walked away from their black mask experience with clean, unclogged pores, so I hoped for those results going into it. But I was pretty darn disappointed when I peered at my reflection only to see the same little dots all around my T-zone. (Maybe I should've played "Mask Off" while peeling it to summon Future's magical powers for good measure? Hah, kidding.) The mask did, however, have an unexpected result: it ripped away some of my "peach fuzz" and a few hairs from my upper lip, which you can slightly see in the photo below. So it was basically like a two-in-one facial wax . . . that I didn't exactly ask for.
10. If you have sensitive skin, you may want to avoid this one
Like I said before, I prepped for the big day by binge-watching YouTube reviews of the Shills mask. One of the videos featured two fair-skinned gals whose faces were beet red in the aftermath. Personally, my face (mainly my cheeks) was red for about two hours after I removed it, and my skin felt all tingly for about 30 minutes after peeling it off. I'm no skin expert, but if yours is notably sensitive or prone to inflammation and flare-ups, I think it's probably best to skip out on the Shills hype. Something a little more mild may be more your style.
11. A few postmask tips you need to know
All in all, the mask came off my face pretty seamlessly, mostly in two large pieces. There were a few remaining pieces stuck on near my hairline, which I suggest removing with a damp washcloth. The product's packaging advises following up your peel-off session with some toner to "tighten and cleanse the pores." Although my pores weren't exactly empty caverns by the end of it, I still applied toner for good measure, and it really soothed my slightly aching skin.
My final thoughts
Although I'm glad I finally quenched my undying curiosity over this mask once and for all, it definitely wasn't as effective as I had hoped it would be. At the end of the day, I wouldn't recommend succumbing to the hype - unless you're looking for a quick way to get rid of peach fuzz sans a razor, that is. Onward to my next face mask adventure!
It Looks Like Bella Hadid Is Wearing a Regular Bikini Until She Turns Around
What's a supermodel to do when hanging out on a yacht? Have some fun by jumping into the ocean, of course. Bella Hadid showed off her enviable figure while relaxing in Monaco, wearing a high-waisted orange bikini by I Am Zazie that had us blushing.
At first glance, it looks like Bella was wearing a regular bikini until she turned around to reveal the barely-there bottoms. This isn't the first time Bella has worn a thong bikini, and we doubt it'll be the last. Have a look at Bella's bikini and shop similar versions ahead.
Your Handy Guide to the Many, Many Characters in American Gods
The adaptation of Neil Gaiman's sprawling fantasy masterpiece, American Gods, has finally arrived on TV screens. The highly anticipated Starz series follows Shadow Moon (played by Ricky Whittle), an ex-con, who finds himself caught up in a mysterious battle between good and evil after getting out of prison, which involves a very unique cast of characters. Whether you're just now encountering the world of American Gods, or you simply need a refresher on all of the key players, read on to get the low down on everyone involved in Shadow's story.
I Tried That Viral Black Peel-Off Mask So You Definitely Don't Have To
If you've been on social media anytime in the past few months, chances are you've come across a monsoon-like flood of Instagram advertisements and YouTube reviews for the Shills Black Peel-Off Face Mask. The product has earned viral fame and developed a cult-like following of beauty mavens who praise its ability to banish blackheads with just one use. This skin-purifying mask promises to unclog pores of their impurities, leaving your face feeling smooth, exfoliated, and, most importantly, blackhead-free. Sounds pretty glorious, right?
As soon as I stumbled upon an ad about the Shills mask, so many questions came to mind: Does it actually work? How long does it take to show results? And on a scale of 1-10, how bad will it hurt? So I scoured YouTube to see what vloggers had to say about it, and it turned out the reviews were pretty evenly divided. Some admitted it was extremely painful and even caused a little inflammation, while others raved of its pore-cleansing effects and even featured up-close footage of their blackheads getting stripped of dirt and grime as the mask got ripped off.
It's those zoomed-in shots of the pore-stripping action that really drew me in.
I'm not gonna lie: it's those zoomed-in shots of the pore-stripping action that really drew me in. There's something so oddly satisfying about watching it, kind of like seeing Dr. Pimple Popper's blackhead-blasting adventures. (I know, I know; I'm weird.) My curiosity eventually got the best of me, so I decided to take one for the team and try the mask myself (naturally documenting my journey with a plethora of obnoxious selfies and Boomerangs, of course).
I have to preface things by honestly admitting I've been blessed with pretty decent skin. It's by no means a blackhead haven, but I do have tons of pesky clogged pores mostly concentrated around my nose that I've been itching to get rid of (and that I usually resort to squeezing out with my fingertips, despite my mom's best efforts to advise against doing so).
Before you sacrifice your precious pores and hop on the bandwagon, read on for the 11 tips and tidbits you need to know about the infamous Shills mask.
1. There appear to be two different Shills products on the market that people are mixing up
Shills isn't exactly a drugstore mainstay, so many of the brand's products are sold on Amazon. I ended up purchasing mine through a semisketchy website (see tip No. 2 for more details on that) and soon realized there are two different black peel-off masks that people are interchanging.
The two versions are the Purifying Peel-Off Mask and the Acne Purifying Peel-Off Black Mask. The first claims to "increase vitality" and is used by many beauty vloggers who have reviewed it on YouTube. The second claims to "increase complexion" and is sold at Walmart and on the official Shills website. I chose the Purifying Peel-Off Mask, because it's the first one I came across on social media. The difference in how well each of these products removes blackheads is a tad unclear, but it's definitely something to keep in mind if you're planning to purchase one.
2. If you're impatient like me, don't buy it through an Instagram ad
Being the millennial consumer I am, I simply couldn't resist clicking on an ad for the product on Instagram (especially when I saw the word "free" involved in the promotion). That ad took me to a website, which was offering the product for free (plus shipping costs). I paid $13 for it at the time - though the price appears to fluctuate daily because of the high demand. Purchasing it through a random website I'd never heard of was a rookie mistake on my end, because I had to wait three weeks for it to arrive, and when it did arrive, the packaging was pretty beat up. I suggest buying it from Walmart or Amazon, both of which offer quicker shipping times, if you're dying to try it ASAP.
3. Apply the mask using a brush, not your fingertips
Whereas some gals on YouTube excitedly slathered on the goopy liquid with their fingers, others opted for using a makeup brush to do so. This resulted in much cleaner, accurate coverage. I went for a basic foundation brush from the local drugstore and found that I was able to properly cover my face. It also helped me get in those hard-to-reach spots (like between my eyebrows, near my nostrils, and by my hairline). A soft, semitapered foundation brush is definitely the way to go, rather than a large powder brush.
Another upside of using a brush to apply the Shills mask? I didn't have to deal with furiously scrubbing my fingers to get any of the black color off afterward because the brush took the fall instead. I simply dabbed on some dish soap, rubbed it on my silicone brush cleaner, and voila! My brush was good as new again.
4. On that note, apply it very carefully - yet quickly
I'm admittedly a tad of a perfectionist, so I wanted to apply my mask evenly to allow for the best selfies possible (yes, I know that was painfully millennial of me to say). But I realized that the liquid starts to dry pretty quickly, so you have to move fast when slathering it on. That doesn't mean sloppiness is welcomed, as getting that full coverage is what you should be going for. Just make sure you get yourself in ninja-mask-applying mode beforehand.
5. If you do mess something up, I've got the perfect solution
A few times during application, I accidentally veered my brush too closely to my eyebrows and hairline (both of which should 100 percent be avoided). In a moment of panic, I glanced over at the Q-tips in my bathroom and the imaginary light bulb illuminated above my head. A damp cotton swab was the ideal tiny tool for easily wiping away excess mask goop before it was too late. Note: this is a helpful hack you can use with any face mask, not just the Shills one!
6. The mask goes on thick - like, super thick
I was honestly a bit surprised at just how thick the liquid mask is when I first applied it to my face. I assumed I'd need to smear on a few layers, but all I needed was one coat of it, and I was good to go. Now you know!
7. Set aside nearly 30 minutes for it to dry
The packaging advised leaving the mask for 20-30 minutes before getting down to peeling business. I set a timer for 25 minutes and found that to be the perfect sweet spot. By then, the mask was evenly hardened all around, whereas if I had started peeling away around the 20-minute mark, a few patches where I applied it in a slightly thicker coating wouldn't have been ready.
8. Take a deep breath before peeling - and prepare for some pain
I suggest treating it like a bandage - just rip it as quickly as possible to get it over with.One of the major caveats for this mask is just how painful it is to remove. Although I think this aspect has been a tad overhyped all over the internet, I can confirm that it hurt pretty freakin' bad. On a scale of 1-10 (10 being the worst), I'd give it a solid 8. By far the most painful area for removing the mask was near my eyes. I'll just go ahead and admit that unintentional tears may or may not have rolled down my face while ripping it off my skin. I suggest treating it like a bandage in that area - just pull it as quickly (and carefully!) as possible to get it over with.
9. It didn't actually remove any of my blackheads
Lots of happy customers have walked away from their black mask experience with clean, unclogged pores, so I hoped for those results going into it. But I was pretty darn disappointed when I peered at my reflection only to see the same little dots all around my T-zone. (Maybe I should've played "Mask Off" while peeling it to summon Future's magical powers for good measure? Hah, kidding.) The mask did, however, have an unexpected result: it ripped away some of my "peach fuzz" and a few hairs from my upper lip, which you can slightly see in the photo below. So it was basically like a two-in-one facial wax . . . that I didn't exactly ask for.
10. If you have sensitive skin, you may want to avoid this one
Like I said before, I prepped for the big day by binge-watching YouTube reviews of the Shills mask. One of the videos featured two fair-skinned gals whose faces were beet red in the aftermath. Personally, my face (mainly my cheeks) was red for about two hours after I removed it, and my skin felt all tingly for about 30 minutes after peeling it off. I'm no skin expert, but if yours is notably sensitive or prone to inflammation and flare-ups, I think it's probably best to skip out on the Shills hype. Something a little more mild may be more your style.
11. A few postmask tips you need to know
All in all, the mask came off my face pretty seamlessly, mostly in two large pieces. There were a few remaining pieces stuck on near my hairline, which I suggest removing with a damp washcloth. The product's packaging advises following up your peel-off session with some toner to "tighten and cleanse the pores." Although my pores weren't exactly empty caverns by the end of it, I still applied toner for good measure, and it really soothed my slightly aching skin.
My final thoughts
Although I'm glad I finally quenched my undying curiosity over this mask once and for all, it definitely wasn't as effective as I had hoped it would be. At the end of the day, I wouldn't recommend succumbing to the hype - unless you're looking for a quick way to get rid of peach fuzz sans a razor, that is. Onward to my next face mask adventure!
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