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.
vendredi 9 juin 2017
8 Signs You and Your Partner Are Stuck to Each Other Like Glue
Love is a wonderful thing, and being close with your partner is a must if you want a successful relationship, but sometimes a couple is way too close - like conjoined twins close! It's not cute if your other half literally becomes your other half, unless you were looking to meet a human double of yourself rather than an equal person to enjoy life with! Here are five signs you and your significant other are crazy-glued together in a stage five clinger mess and impossible to tear apart - gulp.
1. "I" Becomes "We"
Your friends don't invite you to girls' night because, suddenly, it's not girls' night anymore. It's girls' night plus your dude, and that sort of takes the "girls'" part out of the fun.
His guy friends don't even bother asking him to hang out unless they don't mind hanging out with you. And it's not that they don't like you, but that they want their "bro" back and they're beginning to wonder if he stays home with you doing facials and watching The Bachelor because their "bro" is definitely, sniff, long gone!
The two of you are attached at the hip and require a "plus one" everywhere you go. It's nauseating!
2. Your Friends Begin to Disappear
You and your BFFs were known for many heart-to-heart chats, and you were always there to wipe away a friend's tears, but instead of being a good friend, you've become a body double - and an absent friend. Not because of maliciousness, but because you're so absorbed with your partner.
3. Your Hobbies, Goals, and Dreams Vanish
That yoga class you wanted to take - that MBA you wanted to go back to school for? They don't exist. Sure, you do things, but those things are just things you and your partner can do together. It's not that you're depressed, but that you've set aside "being you" in order to be the relationship.
If your SO is the same way, he or she has set aside some goals and stopped attending that weekly poker game because it doesn't include you, and doing something that doesn't include you is out of the question these days.
4. There Are Constant Check-Ins
When someone does decide to leave the "fold" to go out on his or her own, the other one is constantly checking in with the other person, OR the one who is out is constantly checking in to see how the "lonely" person is doing.
If you do leave for a girls' night or birthday party or special family gathering, you decide to leave much earlier than you did in the past.
5. You Start Holding Back More
When you're a clingy couple, one or both of you is most likely holding back your true feelings or opinions on any number of subjects out of fear of looking bad or turning the other person away from you.
The clinginess comes from a need to feel love and a desire to not be abandoned. No one wants to be alone forever, but you shouldn't squash your authentic self in order to stay a duo. This will ultimately kill you inside and eventually your relationship will crumble. If something is meant to end, let it end sooner than later. Trust me.
6. You've Officially Lost Touch With Reality
We all love getting caught up in a romance, but when you are caught up in stage five clinger life, you become out of touch with the world around you, from your job to your family to maybe even world and local news. A relationship is supposed to be an important thing, not your everything.
7. Even the Smallest of Fights Are Devastating
Fights are the least fun in any relationship, but it happens. However, when it happens to the "clinger duo," it's devastating because the fear of breakup and abandonment is so high that the fight will become diluted (meaning you both pull back your feelings and honesty), overemotional (think pleas and ranting about breaking up and the level of true love you emit from your pores), or incredibly nasty because the two of you are so anxious about being left that neither of you fight with a filter, which is deadly to the relationship.
8. You Start to Wonder "Who Am I?"
You don't want to admit it, but you've sort of lost yourself in this conjoined twin romance. There are times you think, "Wow, I haven't seen so-and-so in so long," or "When was the last time I did X?" Your partner is probably thinking the same thing, too, and both of you are afraid to broach the subject for fear of hurting the other.
Everyone wants to be loved, so don't feel bad for wanting to be close with your partner. But clinging to each other in desperation is not love - it's codependency. Talk to each other about how you two can be as one as well as two separate beings on your own. If you're not good by yourself, you won't be good for anyone else!
This Secret Indian Hair-Growth Formula May Finally Give You a Mermaid Mane
Anyone who has unsuccessfully tried to get their hair to grow may roll their eyes at this video in which Prachi (the vlogger behind Super Wow Style) shares a family recipe for lengthier locks. Could a simple mix of natural ingredients really make hair grow up to 30-40 percent as Prachi claims? We were a bit skeptical, too, and while we have not tried this remedy, a look at Prachi's long shiny mane and reading the reviewers' testimonials is making us reconsider. Perhaps this is the holistic answer to getting the mermaid mane of your dreams. In fact, Prachi challenges viewers to take before and after images when they test the treatment.
"People ask, 'How does you hair grow?' and I give them the same answer," she says in the video. "I learned it from my mom, and she learned is from her mother. It's an old Indian secret."
To DIY it, you'll need: coconut oil, castor oil, vitamin E, aloe vera leaves, and two bowls (one small and one large). Start by cutting up the aloe vera leaves, and then scratch it with a knife or fork to scrape out more gel. Rub the leaf on your scalp and massage the aloe gel into your roots. Use your fingers to make sure it's all over your head.
Then, in a small bowl, combine one tablespoon of castor oil with 1.5 to 2 tablespoons of coconut oil. Pierce the vitamin E capsule with needle, extract the oil, and add it to the formula. Place the small bowl with the three oils in a larger one containing hot water. Warning: do not place the oil directly on a fire (including a stove) or in microwaves, since it can catch fire immediately.
After five minutes, the hot oil should be ready. Use your fingertips to apply it onto your scalp. Lay down on a sofa or the like and gently massage it into your scalp for two to three minutes. "This is very important to increase blood circulation for hair growth," she explains.
Once you're done, weave your hair in tight braid and sleep on it. Wash you hair in the morning. According to Prachi, you will start seeing a difference in your hair length "very, very soon."
While she does not specify how often to do the treatment, reviewers offer their successful trials.
"I tried this method exactly as she explained to and it WORKED!" one commenter said. "My hair grew about 4 to 5 inches in about 3 months! I did it 2 x per week for a month. Then 1 x per week for the next 2 months. It made my hair so healthy and strong. Everyone kept commenting on how fast my hair grew and how long it is. Before I started my hair was bra strap length. Now it is to my hips! I don't have photos to post, because I seriously hate taking photos of myself since I have gained weight (next thing to work on) but I will consider it."
Another commenter said, "I watched your video and used these products! And it works like MAGIC. I don't know how but my hair grew in a week. I used it two times a week though aloe vera was not available! But castor oil is super! Hats off!"
A third remarked, "It's amazing . . . I've seen results in just 2 wash[es] . . . My hair [ha]s became more silky and the best part it made my hair 2.5 cm longer."
So, what do you think? Is this a hoax or the most genius hair hack ever?
18 Secrets From Sephora Employees, Including When to Buy Top-Selling Products
Sure, you shop there all the time (heck, you might as well live there), but how much do you really know about the beauty megastore you call your home away from home? We interviewed a handful of Sephora staffers (who alo prefer to keep their last names anonymous) to find out what it's like to work "the stage" - as we learned the main floor is called.
From getting paid (gratis) to attend pro makeup lessons concerns to wearing face uniforms (at least three eye shadow shades!) to helping women with a wide range of beauty (er, and sometimes relationship) concerns, read on as they let us in on the best, worst and weirdest parts of the gig.
1. They get gratis
Some women pay for pro beauty lessons. Sephora employees get rewarded to attend them.
"Each month, we have an hour-long learning session with a Sephora educator to learn about new products and brands coming to the store," says Kasey. "Once completed, we get sign-off to take home our gratis bag for that month. There are times when we receive the products we learned about in the session and others where it's just a bunch of random stuff."
When it comes to the gift of gratis, it especially pays to be a seasonal employee.
"I was originally hired during the holiday season (October through December)," she explains. "We don't have education sessions during that time so we end up getting four gratis bags after our January session. It's like Christmas for us!"
Another staffer Sarah adds: "One of our girls once told me 'I will never have to buy another piece of makeup again because Sephora not only pays for my bills, but feeds my addictions!"
2. Discounts are par for the course
If they don't manage to score what they want in their gratis bags, they can at least do so with a sweet discount.
"We get 20 percent off regular store items and 40 percent off the Sephora collection," says Chioma "Sometimes, we are even able to use our discounts on top of already-discounted items, but only for a limited time."
Discounts can range depending on the brand being purchased and the store in which you work.
Kelsey, who works at Sephora JCPenney, a pop-up Sephora located inside the department store, explains: "Our discount is 20 to 25 percent off almost the entire JCPenney store, including Sephora products, depending on method of payment. SiJCP employees cannot use our discount in freestanding Sephoras, and freestanding employees cannot use their discount at SiJCP."
3. There are exclusive sales
As for Sephora's sales, there are more than meets the consumer eye.
"A couple of months ago, the Urban Decay Naked Smoky Palette was on sale for $27, and all of the Sephora employees got it for only $18!," says Chioma.
"We have a once-a-year promotion where you get an extra 35 percent off plus your already existing discount!," adds Sarah.
4. There's a pecking order
As with any job, there's a ranking that determines what you do and where you can go (literally).
"We have our top manager and then our assistant managers, whom are called CELs," says Chioma. "CELs are usually the ones who make sure everything is running smoothly on the black tile (Sephora grounds), while the manager is taking care of things in the office. Managers also have access to certain areas that other Sephora employees are restricted from, such as the stock room and the trash bin room."
5. It's a stage
At some stores, managers are referred to by their staff as directors and assistant managers are labeled cast members.
"It feels like we are performing in a play and acting for our clients. You do get a new name once you get promoted and there are many, many variations for what you could be called!," says Sarah.
6. They're only as good as their last sale
At Sephora, the only thing next to a promotion is bragging rights.
"Our manager gives us an opportunity to shine when it comes to sales, says Chioma. "If we get a $300+ sale from a client that we personally helped, we are featured in the board room with a copy of that sales receipt next to our picture! It's the manager's way of saying 'you're bringing in heavy sales; keep it up!"
In case you were wondering, they're also reading those surveys.
"We are evaluated as a store on our sales and service, so we individually strive to each reach personal goals in sales and service," notes Kasey. "Earning great survey comments from clients that we work with at the beauty studio and making big skin care sales in my particular store, are the top two ways to get recognized by our team leaders for doing a great job."
7. They work in different worlds
If working at a freestanding store, you better be prepared to know your zone.
"In freestanding stores, employees are separated by world (skin care, hair care, makeup, fragrance, and cashier) but, at SiJCP, we get to do a little of everything!," says Kasey.
8. They don't need makeup experience
Good news! According to the pros we spoke to, you don't need to be a former makeup artist to get the gig.
"My hiring experience was based off of how well I interacted with a group of people, how much energy I brought into the room, and how warm, inviting and helpful I came off," says Chioma. "The hiring manager wasn't focused on how much I knew about makeup or how skilled I was at it - that spoke for itself on my face during the interview process. I was actually surprised that I didn't have to put makeup on a model in order to be hired!"
Of course, retail experience and a love of makeup can't hurt.
"Most of us are completely self-taught and come into the job with basic retail experience," adds Kasey. "Some of the girls have gone to hair school and/or work in a salon and therefore have some experience in the industry, but most of us start out as makeup-lovers who want to grow and expand our artistry and knowledge."
9. They have a beauty uniform
While no prior experience is required (it's learned on the job), employees are expected to put their best faces forward.
"When it comes to makeup, the rules are: you must wear some kind of complexion base (such as foundation or face powder), at least three eye shadow shades, a cheek color and a lip color," Chioma explains. "Hair has to be secured so it's not being messed with or in the way, and nails must be manicured and well groomed, but can't be extremely long so they aren't poking clients when we give them makeovers!"
Unlike some other uniforms, this one still allows for some creativity.
"Funky colors and tattoos are encouraged, as we love to have individuals expressing themselves!," says Sarah.
10. They leave the drama for the makeup
There are employees who tend to form closer bonds, but there aren't cliques per se, at least when it comes to Chioma's store.
"Our staff is fairly small since I work in a small town, so we usually have outings and events that we all do together, like go out for pizza and drinks and have holiday parties," says Chioma. "Our staff members get along with one another. If something rather scandalous happens, we discuss it in a mature way so there's no conflict in the future."
That said, you can kiss any secrets goodbye.
"Since our staff is so small, if one person gets super wasted at a college party, everyone finds out about it! It's usually something we laugh about at work the next day," Chioma explains.
11. Weekends and holidays are insane
If you're looking for some one-on-one time, you'll want to stop by on a weekday.
"Working in a mall on a Friday night is always interesting," says Kasey. "Weekends are when we do the most custom makeup appointments for special events, so sometimes it's tough to get walk-ins sat down at the beauty studio for assistance with other concerns. Holiday is so different from the rest of the year for obvious reasons!"
12. There's a list of hot-ticket products
With popular times come in-demand items.
"If you're coming in looking for the newest Anastasia Beverly Hills Glow Kit ($40) or Too Faced Eye Shadow Palette, there's a very high chance that it's sold out. You might not be lucky trying to find Kat Von D's 'Lolita' Lipstick ($21) or Becca's 'Champagne Pop' Highlighter ($38), either," says Chioma.
And that mask that went viral? Forget about it.
"Everyone wants the Boscia Luminizing Black Mask ($34) right now!" notes Kasey. "It flies off the shelves and we get nonstop phone calls asking if we have it in stock. The Anastasia Beverly Hills Modern Renaissance Eye Shadow Palette ($42) and the Kat Von D Alchemist Holographic Palette ($32) have also been super popular and sell out quickly."
13. They stock up regularly
When it comes to nabbing the latest, the early bird gets the worm.
"The days that we get new shipments in are random, but we usually do restocks before the store opens," explains Chioma. "If you're looking to get first dibs on a new or sold-out product, I would recommend coming in during the morning time."
If you can't swing by in the morning, Kasey suggests giving your local store a ring.
"If you're looking for a specific item, our store can put it on hold or add you to a list so we can call you when we restock something," she says.
14. They get first dibs
Of course, this is one of those instances when it helps to be or know a Sephora employee.
"We get first dibs on all of the newest products and having the inside scoop on the upcoming collaborations and collections that are coming to the store in the future," says Chioma. "There's a special release coming in the Fall that I'm not allowed to say anything about yet, but it's going to be phenomenal!"
Sometimes, they luck out and get items before anyone is supposed to.
"We get early access to products if they're delivered early, and we're allowed to put products on hold for ourselves to make sure hot-ticket items don't sell out," adds Kasey, noting there are sometimes restrictions.
15. Their clientele ranges significantly
If you're looking for consistency, you might want to look elsewhere because, as Kasey puts it, no day at Sephora is the same.
"I have put lip gloss on a 4-year-old, helped a 95-year-old woman find the perfect retinol serum, built a first makeup collection for an upcoming drag queen, helped YouTube beauty gurus find the next products for their videos, and everything in between," explains Kasey.
16. They know you better than you think
Even though there's a wide range of clients and interests, there are some requests that come up over and over again.
"Some questions I get asked frequently are 'Can you help me find a foundation that won't make me look cakey?' or the classic 'I know nothing about makeup and I have an event this weekend - can you teach me everything?," says Chioma.
This includes regularly playing matchmaker.
"Our top request is probably to help clients match foundations," notes Kasey. "We also have people who come in and ask for online-only brands (like Kylie Cosmetics, Morphe and Jeffree Star)."
17. They're expected to get personal
Then again, there are always surprises.
"I once helped a woman who'd developed facial hair from a medication she was on color-correct and conceal her 5 o'clock shadow," says Kasey. "She was so embarrassed, but we are a judgment-free zone and I was so happy to help her to move past her insecurities."
Some customers hold nothing back.
"I think the weirdest thing that I've been asked at work is 'what's a good lipstick that won't smudge or rub off when I get intimate with my boyfriend?' In case you're wondering, I recommended Kat Von D's Liquid Lipsticks," Chioma offers.
18. They absolutely love what they do
All in all, they wouldn't have it any other way.
"The best part of the job is making women feel as loved and special as they can. The love you give out is only a fraction of the love you get back from your clients!" says Sarah.
After all, they're making a difference.
"It sounds corny, but we literally change lives! Making clients feel beautiful and getting to know them and seeing them come back is such a rewarding feeling! It makes it all worthwhile," adds Kasey.
See How Hot Urban Decay's Naked Heat Palette Looks on Different Skin Tones
Exactly 24 hours after the embargo dropped on Urban Decay's sizzling newest product, the Naked Heat palette ($54), we wrote this article. And in just a day, the #NakedHeat hashtag on Instagram was already flooded with over 1,000 posts featuring the 12 red-toned shades.
Some shared images of the product, while those lucky enough to get their hands (and makeup brushes!) on it ahead of sales showed how gorgeous it looks swatched on skin or smoked out on eyes. Even influencers like Patrick Starr and celebrity makeup artist Katie Jane Hughes participated.
Ahead, we've shared looks from a diverse group who have already brought the fiery shades to life on their faces. The results are stunning and prove red, copper, and burnt orange look good on everyone, no matter your complexion or eye color. Can June 12 - the official launch date - come any sooner?
18 Secrets From Sephora Employees, Including When to Buy Top-Selling Products
Sure, you shop there all the time (heck, you might as well live there), but how much do you really know about the beauty megastore you call your home away from home? We interviewed a handful of Sephora staffers (who alo prefer to keep their last names anonymous) to find out what it's like to work "the stage" - as we learned the main floor is called.
From getting paid (gratis) to attend pro makeup lessons concerns to wearing face uniforms (at least three eye shadow shades!) to helping women with a wide range of beauty (er, and sometimes relationship) concerns, read on as they let us in on the best, worst and weirdest parts of the gig.
1. They get gratis
Some women pay for pro beauty lessons. Sephora employees get rewarded to attend them.
"Each month, we have an hour-long learning session with a Sephora educator to learn about new products and brands coming to the store," says Kasey. "Once completed, we get sign-off to take home our gratis bag for that month. There are times when we receive the products we learned about in the session and others where it's just a bunch of random stuff."
When it comes to the gift of gratis, it especially pays to be a seasonal employee.
"I was originally hired during the holiday season (October through December)," she explains. "We don't have education sessions during that time so we end up getting four gratis bags after our January session. It's like Christmas for us!"
Another staffer Sarah adds: "One of our girls once told me 'I will never have to buy another piece of makeup again because Sephora not only pays for my bills, but feeds my addictions!"
2. Discounts are par for the course
If they don't manage to score what they want in their gratis bags, they can at least do so with a sweet discount.
"We get 20 percent off regular store items and 40 percent off the Sephora collection," says Chioma "Sometimes, we are even able to use our discounts on top of already-discounted items, but only for a limited time."
Discounts can range depending on the brand being purchased and the store in which you work.
Kelsey, who works at Sephora JCPenney, a pop-up Sephora located inside the department store, explains: "Our discount is 20 to 25 percent off almost the entire JCPenney store, including Sephora products, depending on method of payment. SiJCP employees cannot use our discount in freestanding Sephoras, and freestanding employees cannot use their discount at SiJCP."
3. There are exclusive sales
As for Sephora's sales, there are more than meets the consumer eye.
"A couple of months ago, the Urban Decay Naked Smoky Palette was on sale for $27, and all of the Sephora employees got it for only $18!," says Chioma.
"We have a once-a-year promotion where you get an extra 35 percent off plus your already existing discount!," adds Sarah.
4. There's a pecking order
As with any job, there's a ranking that determines what you do and where you can go (literally).
"We have our top manager and then our assistant managers, whom are called CELs," says Chioma. "CELs are usually the ones who make sure everything is running smoothly on the black tile (Sephora grounds), while the manager is taking care of things in the office. Managers also have access to certain areas that other Sephora employees are restricted from, such as the stock room and the trash bin room."
5. It's a stage
At some stores, managers are referred to by their staff as directors and assistant managers are labeled cast members.
"It feels like we are performing in a play and acting for our clients. You do get a new name once you get promoted and there are many, many variations for what you could be called!," says Sarah.
6. They're only as good as their last sale
At Sephora, the only thing next to a promotion is bragging rights.
"Our manager gives us an opportunity to shine when it comes to sales, says Chioma. "If we get a $300+ sale from a client that we personally helped, we are featured in the board room with a copy of that sales receipt next to our picture! It's the manager's way of saying 'you're bringing in heavy sales; keep it up!"
In case you were wondering, they're also reading those surveys.
"We are evaluated as a store on our sales and service, so we individually strive to each reach personal goals in sales and service," notes Kasey. "Earning great survey comments from clients that we work with at the beauty studio and making big skin care sales in my particular store, are the top two ways to get recognized by our team leaders for doing a great job."
7. They work in different worlds
If working at a freestanding store, you better be prepared to know your zone.
"In freestanding stores, employees are separated by world (skin care, hair care, makeup, fragrance, and cashier) but, at SiJCP, we get to do a little of everything!," says Kasey.
8. They don't need makeup experience
Good news! According to the pros we spoke to, you don't need to be a former makeup artist to get the gig.
"My hiring experience was based off of how well I interacted with a group of people, how much energy I brought into the room, and how warm, inviting and helpful I came off," says Chioma. "The hiring manager wasn't focused on how much I knew about makeup or how skilled I was at it - that spoke for itself on my face during the interview process. I was actually surprised that I didn't have to put makeup on a model in order to be hired!"
Of course, retail experience and a love of makeup can't hurt.
"Most of us are completely self-taught and come into the job with basic retail experience," adds Kasey. "Some of the girls have gone to hair school and/or work in a salon and therefore have some experience in the industry, but most of us start out as makeup-lovers who want to grow and expand our artistry and knowledge."
9. They have a beauty uniform
While no prior experience is required (it's learned on the job), employees are expected to put their best faces forward.
"When it comes to makeup, the rules are: you must wear some kind of complexion base (such as foundation or face powder), at least three eye shadow shades, a cheek color and a lip color," Chioma explains. "Hair has to be secured so it's not being messed with or in the way, and nails must be manicured and well groomed, but can't be extremely long so they aren't poking clients when we give them makeovers!"
Unlike some other uniforms, this one still allows for some creativity.
"Funky colors and tattoos are encouraged, as we love to have individuals expressing themselves!," says Sarah.
10. They leave the drama for the makeup
There are employees who tend to form closer bonds, but there aren't cliques per se, at least when it comes to Chioma's store.
"Our staff is fairly small since I work in a small town, so we usually have outings and events that we all do together, like go out for pizza and drinks and have holiday parties," says Chioma. "Our staff members get along with one another. If something rather scandalous happens, we discuss it in a mature way so there's no conflict in the future."
That said, you can kiss any secrets goodbye.
"Since our staff is so small, if one person gets super wasted at a college party, everyone finds out about it! It's usually something we laugh about at work the next day," Chioma explains.
11. Weekends and holidays are insane
If you're looking for some one-on-one time, you'll want to stop by on a weekday.
"Working in a mall on a Friday night is always interesting," says Kasey. "Weekends are when we do the most custom makeup appointments for special events, so sometimes it's tough to get walk-ins sat down at the beauty studio for assistance with other concerns. Holiday is so different from the rest of the year for obvious reasons!"
12. There's a list of hot-ticket products
With popular times come in-demand items.
"If you're coming in looking for the newest Anastasia Beverly Hills Glow Kit ($40) or Too Faced Eye Shadow Palette, there's a very high chance that it's sold out. You might not be lucky trying to find Kat Von D's 'Lolita' Lipstick ($21) or Becca's 'Champagne Pop' Highlighter ($38), either," says Chioma.
And that mask that went viral? Forget about it.
"Everyone wants the Boscia Luminizing Black Mask ($34) right now!" notes Kasey. "It flies off the shelves and we get nonstop phone calls asking if we have it in stock. The Anastasia Beverly Hills Modern Renaissance Eye Shadow Palette ($42) and the Kat Von D Alchemist Holographic Palette ($32) have also been super popular and sell out quickly."
13. They stock up regularly
When it comes to nabbing the latest, the early bird gets the worm.
"The days that we get new shipments in are random, but we usually do restocks before the store opens," explains Chioma. "If you're looking to get first dibs on a new or sold-out product, I would recommend coming in during the morning time."
If you can't swing by in the morning, Kasey suggests giving your local store a ring.
"If you're looking for a specific item, our store can put it on hold or add you to a list so we can call you when we restock something," she says.
14. They get first dibs
Of course, this is one of those instances when it helps to be or know a Sephora employee.
"We get first dibs on all of the newest products and having the inside scoop on the upcoming collaborations and collections that are coming to the store in the future," says Chioma. "There's a special release coming in the Fall that I'm not allowed to say anything about yet, but it's going to be phenomenal!"
Sometimes, they luck out and get items before anyone is supposed to.
"We get early access to products if they're delivered early, and we're allowed to put products on hold for ourselves to make sure hot-ticket items don't sell out," adds Kasey, noting there are sometimes restrictions.
15. Their clientele ranges significantly
If you're looking for consistency, you might want to look elsewhere because, as Kasey puts it, no day at Sephora is the same.
"I have put lip gloss on a 4-year-old, helped a 95-year-old woman find the perfect retinol serum, built a first makeup collection for an upcoming drag queen, helped YouTube beauty gurus find the next products for their videos, and everything in between," explains Kasey.
16. They know you better than you think
Even though there's a wide range of clients and interests, there are some requests that come up over and over again.
"Some questions I get asked frequently are 'Can you help me find a foundation that won't make me look cakey?' or the classic 'I know nothing about makeup and I have an event this weekend - can you teach me everything?," says Chioma.
This includes regularly playing matchmaker.
"Our top request is probably to help clients match foundations," notes Kasey. "We also have people who come in and ask for online-only brands (like Kylie Cosmetics, Morphe and Jeffree Star)."
17. They're expected to get personal
Then again, there are always surprises.
"I once helped a woman who'd developed facial hair from a medication she was on color-correct and conceal her 5 o'clock shadow," says Kasey. "She was so embarrassed, but we are a judgment-free zone and I was so happy to help her to move past her insecurities."
Some customers hold nothing back.
"I think the weirdest thing that I've been asked at work is 'what's a good lipstick that won't smudge or rub off when I get intimate with my boyfriend?' In case you're wondering, I recommended Kat Von D's Liquid Lipsticks," Chioma offers.
18. They absolutely love what they do
All in all, they wouldn't have it any other way.
"The best part of the job is making women feel as loved and special as they can. The love you give out is only a fraction of the love you get back from your clients!" says Sarah.
After all, they're making a difference.
"It sounds corny, but we literally change lives! Making clients feel beautiful and getting to know them and seeing them come back is such a rewarding feeling! It makes it all worthwhile," adds Kasey.
The Mummy, Frankenstein, and More: a Rundown of Dark Universe's Monster-Filled Lineup
For anyone heading to the movies to watch the reboot of The Mummy, starring Tom Cruise and Russell Crowe, don't expect to see the same kind of enjoyably preposterous action-adventure Brendan Fraser and Rachel Weisz blessed us with in the 1999 original. Instead, the film seems more interested in setting up Universal Pictures's brand new franchise of monster movies called the "Dark Universe." An obvious answer to the highly successful Marvel Cinematic Universe (and Warner Bros.'s "MonsterVerse," to a lesser extent) the Dark Universe aims to make classic movie monsters the new superheroes. Here's what we know about the Dark Universe so far.
The Movies
While speaking to Fandom, Mummy director and producer Alex Kurtzman revealed the movie lineup the studio already has in the works. "We know we're going to do Frankenstein, Bride of Frankenstein, Dracula, Creature from the Black Lagoon, Phantom of the Opera, Hunchback of Notre Dame, Invisible Man," he said. "There are characters within those films that can grow and expand and maybe even spin-off. I think that digging into deep mythologies about monsters around the world is fair game for us, as well, and connecting the monsters that we know to some surprising monsters could also be really interesting."
The Actors
Excluding Universal's poorly received Dracula Untold with Luke Evans in 2014, Cruise's The Mummy is the first in this new shared universe and will be followed by Beauty and the Beast director Bill Condon's take on Bride of Frankenstein. Javier Bardem has already signed on to play Frankenstein's Monster in the latter film, but the female lead has yet to be cast. Kurtzman expressed interest in some of Hollywood's A-list. "I'd love to bring Jennifer Lawrence in," he told Fandom. "I'd love to see Charlize Theron in there, Angelina Jolie."
Other talent already locked down includes Russell Crowe as Dr. Henry Jekyll in The Mummy, who leads the top-secret Prodigium - an organization designed to capture, study, and neutralize any monsters or evil threats roaming the world. We have no doubt he, and possibly Mummy costar Annabelle Wallis, will pop up in later films. Johnny Depp is also a part of the Dark Universe, having signed on to play Dr. Griffin in The Invisible Man. Maybe he and Mr. Hyde will go head to head?
The Release Dates
Once The Mummy drops on June 9, the next Dark Universe flick to hit theaters is Bride of Frankenstein on Feb. 19, 2019. The rest of the premieres for the movies on their lineup are still TBD.
Skull Succulent Planters Are the Gothy Home Decoration of Your Darkest Dreams
News flash: it doesn't have to be October to decorate your home with skulls. Though typically associated with kitschy, cobweb-covered Halloween decor, skulls are way more versatile and chic than you may think, one of our favorite options being planters that take the shape of the skeletal remain. They add a mysterious, slightly dark vibe to any room without being too dreary or creepy. Plus, they totally speak to our cold, cold souls. If you're itching to add a gothic-chic touch to your shelves, bedside table, or desk, read on for the coolest skeleton planters on the market.
What's the Difference Between Anxiety and Stress, and Are They Interchangeable?
"You're just stressed," says a person who does not deal with anxiety. "No, my thoughts and feelings are spiraling out of control, I can't breathe, there's a sinking feeling in my stomach that has been there for days, I can't sleep, I am convinced I'm dying at least 10 times a day. And I forgot to turn off my straightener, probably." As a person who has dealt with serious anxiety issues, nothing bothers me more than someone deducing what I'm going through into your average bout of low-key stress.
For me, stress is when I have a lot on my plate and am worried about getting it all done in time. Anxiety is the paralyzing notion that nothing I ever do will be enough, and there's no tangible way to even begin to fix it. Pretty different, right? Well, Dr. Alison Darcy, a clinical psychologist and CEO of Woebot, explained how the stress and anxiety are connected and how aspects of both aren't as different as you'd think. So, how do you differentiate stress from anxiety? And are they interchangeable? While the two are undeniably very different issues, they can, in some cases, be addressed and helped in similar ways.
What is the difference between stress and anxiety?
"Stress is when the perception of what you need to do is going beyond your perceived capability to get it done. A useful distinction is 'healthy worry' vs. anxiety. Worry is something that's reasonably healthy, it's adaptive, it makes sure our Ts are crossed and Is are dotted when we're worrying about things, and helps us be conscientious," said Darcy.
It becomes maladaptive anxiety when these worries are keeping us up at night, when it's something that we can't easily shake.
"Then you're thinking catastrophes, and you're thinking worst-case scenarios," said Darcy, "when actually if you could dial it down to an 'adaptive level,' you'd be like, 'Oh, I want to make sure I do a good job of this presentation tomorrow.' And it becomes much more behaviorally adaptive. 'Oh, I'll just prepare' rather than worrying about making a complete fool of yourself with this presentation."
This type of anxiety is different from regular stress, so Darcy suggests the way to "dial it down" is to write down all of the things you're thinking and look at those thoughts to see if they are distorted.
So are anxiety and stress interchangeable?
Well, that depends. Because there are different types of anxiety and manifestations of the mental illness, it certainly isn't the same thing as stress, therefore they are not interchangeable in that sense. However, in some cases, Darcy said that the way we address anxiety and chronic stress can be interchangeable.
From a clinician's point of view, she thinks about stress as being a more physiological state, and particularly chronic stress would be referred to in the medical and professional in terms of the physiological effects of long-term exposure to cortisol. A stressful state and an anxious state are quite similar because anxiety has this physiological side as well as a psychological side. She even went as far as to say that in some ways, stress and anxiety are interchangeable in how they work inside of you and that they can be treated in similar ways.
"We're all walking around with these distorted thoughts that we take as 100 percent true. We believe that's the truth because we're not used to getting outside of ourselves."
"It would be this process of identifying what's the situation in which that exemplifies what you're feeling. Let's think about how you're feeling and what does that stress look like to you? Some people feel it very mentally, like 'I'm having all these racing thoughts of concern and anxiety,' and other people feel both stress and anxiety physiologically - 'I can't breathe, my palms are sweating.' And so I think you'd want to differentiate between those two states and then break down what is the thinking behind it. What are you telling yourself that's causing you to have this stress response or this anxious response? And let's really test that against the reality of the situation. We're all walking around with these distorted thoughts that we take as 100 percent true. We believe that's the truth because we're not used to getting outside of ourselves."
Cognitive behavorial therapy involves "homework" that requires patients to write down those distorted thoughts so that they get them out and hopefully can look at them more objectively in order to address the stress or anxiety they are causing someone. This form of therapy helps those dealing with both stress and/or anxiety, despite the fact that they are two different things entirely.
Stress, then, is something that is more easily redirected into something positive and actionable, whereas anxiety can (and does) have physiological and psychological effects that differ and are often maladaptive. Still, the key for both is to recognize the distorted thoughts and feelings in an effort to "dial them back" and address them in order to either overcome them or transform them into something positive and even beneficial.
Mom's Message to the Flight Attendant Who Intervened When "All Hell Broke Loose"
After a vacation in Palm Springs, Whitney Poyntz and her family were returning to Calgary when she boarded her flight with her husband and sleeping 4-month-old. Considering that the little one was already snoozing, the new parents relaxed a bit thinking that it would be an easy flight but quickly realized just how wrong they were.
Once the captain came on the intercom, the infant woke up but was able to be nursed back to sleep. "About 30 minutes later all hell broke loose. [I'm] not sure if it was gas or maybe pressure but we did not have a happy baby, and unfortunately those seats aren't made for rocking or trying to put a baby back to sleep," Whitney wrote on Facebook. "Eyes glaring, sweat dripping down our foreheads trying to get her back to sleep, in comes the hero of the day... a flight attendant named Ashley."
Ashley approached the anxious parents and asked not only if she could hold the agitated baby but also if she could take her for a walk. "The first thought in my head was 'Um, a stranger wants to walk my screaming child up and down the aisle?!?!' But she did and got her calmed down," Whitney wrote. "The experience was amazing. Never would I ever think someone would ever do that, volunteer to take your screaming child, but she did."
Whitney knows that to some, this might not seem like a big deal, but she wants everyone to understand how much this act of kindness meant to a stressed new mom just trying to keep it all together. "WestJet (Ashley), I would like to thank you for the over and above customer service (baby whispering) that you gave, truly the greatest airline," she wrote.
How 1 Stranger Saved This Little Boy From an Injury That Only 1 Percent Survive
4-year-old boy who was internally decapitated, expected to make a full recovery. Mother says chance of survival < 1% http://pic.twitter.com/ZBftcIlcN5
- Sierra Oshrin (@SierraKBOI) June 3, 2016
After a horrific accident, one little boy's head was internally decapitated and essentially just hanging on by a thread to his spinal cord. Luckily for this 4-year-old child, he's not only expected to make a full recovery but also one without surgery thanks to a stranger the family credits with helping to save his life.
An internal decapitation is a rare condition that occurs when the skull becomes separated from the spine. Less than one percent of people survive this massive injury and those who do usually require a major operation as well as a halo brace. However, little Killian keeps on beating the odds.
After celebrating Killian's fourth birthday, the little boy and his mother, Brandy Gonzalez, were driving home when their car hit some ice and began to skid out of control. Their vehicle slammed into another car, but luckily a police officer and his wife, Leah Woodward, happened to be driving toward the accident at the time of the crash.
As the first ones on scene, they immediately checked for survivors and heard the child screaming from the car. With the doors locked, the cop had to smash the back window open so his wife could get inside. He then guided her on how to help the severely injured child.
Leah sat up his limp body and securely held his head in order to protect his cervical spine from any further damage, common protocol before EMT professionals can protect his neck with a brace. She didn't move for over an hour, and her actions most likely saved his life - the slightest move could have been enough to completely sever the boy's spine.
"I'm trying to stay calm but inside I'm panicking. I'm thinking I don't know what I'm doing, and it was the worst feeling I've ever had to not know how to help," Leah said to KBOI2.
Killian's mother broke almost every bone in her body during the accident and is currently recovering at a hospital across the street from where her son is being treated for a ruptured spleen and broken arm and ribs, as well as the clinical decapitation.
"It's just so hard because I'm in the same town and I haven't been able to see him," said Brandy. "It's just hard knowing he's in so much pain and I can't be there."
Mom's Message to the Flight Attendant Who Intervened When "All Hell Broke Loose"
After a vacation in Palm Springs, Whitney Poyntz and her family were returning to Calgary when she boarded her flight with her husband and sleeping 4-month-old. Considering that the little one was already snoozing, the new parents relaxed a bit thinking that it would be an easy flight but quickly realized just how wrong they were.
Once the captain came on the intercom, the infant woke up but was able to be nursed back to sleep. "About 30 minutes later all hell broke loose. [I'm] not sure if it was gas or maybe pressure but we did not have a happy baby, and unfortunately those seats aren't made for rocking or trying to put a baby back to sleep," Whitney wrote on Facebook. "Eyes glaring, sweat dripping down our foreheads trying to get her back to sleep, in comes the hero of the day... a flight attendant named Ashley."
Ashley approached the anxious parents and asked not only if she could hold the agitated baby but also if she could take her for a walk. "The first thought in my head was 'Um, a stranger wants to walk my screaming child up and down the aisle?!?!' But she did and got her calmed down," Whitney wrote. "The experience was amazing. Never would I ever think someone would ever do that, volunteer to take your screaming child, but she did."
Whitney knows that to some, this might not seem like a big deal, but she wants everyone to understand how much this act of kindness meant to a stressed new mom just trying to keep it all together. "WestJet (Ashley), I would like to thank you for the over and above customer service (baby whispering) that you gave, truly the greatest airline," she wrote.
How 1 Stranger Saved This Little Boy From an Injury That Only 1 Percent Survive
4-year-old boy who was internally decapitated, expected to make a full recovery. Mother says chance of survival < 1% http://pic.twitter.com/ZBftcIlcN5
- Sierra Oshrin (@SierraKBOI) June 3, 2016
After a horrific accident, one little boy's head was internally decapitated and essentially just hanging on by a thread to his spinal cord. Luckily for this 4-year-old child, he's not only expected to make a full recovery but also one without surgery thanks to a stranger the family credits with helping to save his life.
An internal decapitation is a rare condition that occurs when the skull becomes separated from the spine. Less than one percent of people survive this massive injury and those who do usually require a major operation as well as a halo brace. However, little Killian keeps on beating the odds.
After celebrating Killian's fourth birthday, the little boy and his mother, Brandy Gonzalez, were driving home when their car hit some ice and began to skid out of control. Their vehicle slammed into another car, but luckily a police officer and his wife, Leah Woodward, happened to be driving toward the accident at the time of the crash.
As the first ones on scene, they immediately checked for survivors and heard the child screaming from the car. With the doors locked, the cop had to smash the back window open so his wife could get inside. He then guided her on how to help the severely injured child.
Leah sat up his limp body and securely held his head in order to protect his cervical spine from any further damage, common protocol before EMT professionals can protect his neck with a brace. She didn't move for over an hour, and her actions most likely saved his life - the slightest move could have been enough to completely sever the boy's spine.
"I'm trying to stay calm but inside I'm panicking. I'm thinking I don't know what I'm doing, and it was the worst feeling I've ever had to not know how to help," Leah said to KBOI2.
Killian's mother broke almost every bone in her body during the accident and is currently recovering at a hospital across the street from where her son is being treated for a ruptured spleen and broken arm and ribs, as well as the clinical decapitation.
"It's just so hard because I'm in the same town and I haven't been able to see him," said Brandy. "It's just hard knowing he's in so much pain and I can't be there."
Miranda Kerr's New Wedding Band Is a Diamond-Lover's Dream
Miranda Kerr and Evan Spiegel got married in a ceremony so low-key, we have yet to see any pictures from the big day. While there are no photos of her wedding gown, we did get a glimpse of her beautiful new wedding band. As she was cutting up mushrooms for her "soup," Miranda flashed the second ring in an Instagram snap. The thin silver band is encrusted with tiny diamonds, pairing perfectly with her solitaire engagement ring that also has diamond baguettes. The band is a sophisticated piece that we know will be timeless, so scroll on for a first glimpse.
60+ Dinosaur Cakes That'll Make Any Birthday Party Roar-Some
Whether your child has a birthday coming up soon or you're already collecting ideas for their next bash, a dinosaur theme is always a good plan. Because the centerpiece of most parties is, of course, the cake, we've rounded up some of the fiercest - and conversely, the most adorable - dino cakes as inspiration.
Ahead, over 60 dinosaur cakes that will make any kid's birthday party roar-some.
60+ Dinosaur Cakes That'll Make Any Birthday Party Roar-Some
Whether your child has a birthday coming up soon or you're already collecting ideas for their next bash, a dinosaur theme is always a good plan. Because the centerpiece of most parties is, of course, the cake, we've rounded up some of the fiercest - and conversely, the most adorable - dino cakes as inspiration.
Ahead, over 60 dinosaur cakes that will make any kid's birthday party roar-some.
10 Things People With Good Credit Always Do
Quick: what's your credit score? Don't know? That's a problem. Your credit score is a snapshot of your financial health and can have a far-reaching impact. Nicole Lapin, a financial expert and author of Rich Bitch: A Simple 12-Step Plan For Getting Your Financial Life Together, explains: "It's connected to anything you do with borrowing money - from the rate you get on your credit card to a mortgage or car loan." In addition, Lapin points out, "sometimes employers look at it or landlords before you rent to see how responsible you are."
You knew that, right? But did you know maintaining a good credit score goes beyond avoiding late payments? Or that not using any credit at all can negatively impact your score? With the help of Lapin and Bethy Hardeman, chief consumer advocate for monitoring site Credit Karma, we've discovered the 10 habits of people with good credit.
1. They Have Available Credit - and Don't Use It
Having credit available that you don't use is important. "Credit utilization - the amount of debt on your credit cards divided by all of your credit limits - is a major factor that goes into calculating your credit score," according to Hardeman. "Try to keep your credit card balances under 30 percent, aiming for less if your budget allows it." For example, if you have a total $10,000 credit limit, put less than $3,000 on your cards. This approach will also help you avoid overspending.
If you're confident about your spending habits, you can also call your credit card company and ask them to increase your limit to improve your ratio. If it's increased to $20,000, but you still spend under $3,000, your score will be better off.
Your amounts owed relative to your available credit accounts for about 30 percent of your score. And when a high percentage of your available credit is being used, it signals to credit-reporting agencies that you might soon miss a payment. That being said, you want to use your cards! FICO says that using a small amount of your credit is often better than not using any of your available credit at all.
2. They Never Cut Up Cards
"You might think you need to go cold turkey to beef up your credit score," Lapin explains. Wrong. Even if you're trying to cut back your reliance on credit cards because you've overextended yourself, Lapin suggests keeping a consistent bill on a card, like a utility bill or autopayment, to show that you are a steady payer.
3. They Keep Old Accounts Open
The length of credit history accounts for about 15 percent of your score, according to FICO. To get that number, credit rating agencies average the age of your credit. Say you have two cards. If you've had one card for 15 years and another for five years, your average length would be 10 years.
"Try to keep your credit cards open, as long as you're not paying any annual fees to do so."
"Try to keep your credit cards open, as long as you're not paying any annual fees to do so," Hardeman recommends. If it does come with a fee, go ahead and close it, but open a free card that you can plan to have around forever, putting one or two bills on it. Hardeman explains that a card might "fall off" your credit report because of inactivity in seven to 10 years.
Your old cards will also help keep your credit utilization rate low, because it ups your overall limit, assuming you're able to keep your spending in check.
4. They Pay Bills on Time Every Time
"I know this sounds patronizing, but pay your bills on time," Lapin says. "It's the best thing you can do to start becoming a star student with your financial report card." That means any bill, including your student loan, car payment, or medical bill from your doctor.
According to FICO, your payment history is the most important factor, accounting for 35 percent of your score. The agencies look at: how late you were, the size of the payment, how recently it happened, and how many delinquent marks you have.
5. They Ask For Forgiveness
"If it's the first time you've been late, pay your bill as quickly as possible, and then call your bank," Hardeman advises. "Explain the situation to them and remind them that it's your first time. They may be willing to consider it a fluke and help you. This may help keep a late payment off your credit report, keeping your payment history perfect."
If the delinquency has already hit your credit report, you can ask them to contact credit reporting agencies to correct the mark. You can also ask for a "do-over" if you miss another type of bill - like medical bill or loan payment.
6. They Use Their Credit Cards Like a Debit Card
Just because the credit card company offers a minimum payment doesn't mean you should take them up on it.
In addition to paying your bills on time, it's important to not carry a balance. Just because the credit card company offers a minimum payment doesn't mean you should take them up on it. "Using your credit cards and paying them off in full at the end of the month will show you're using your credit responsibly," Hardeman says. Plus, it avoids expensive interest payments.
People with good credit never put a large payment on their card if they know they can't pay it off in the next 30 days. That means no overextending yourself as you wait for a raise or year-end bonus.
7. They Set Up Direct Payments
I get it. You're busy. So to avoid missing a payment when life gets in the way, take a moment to set up a direct payment of your full monthly credit card balance from your checking account. Do this as soon as you open new accounts. It will also hold you accountable, since you know you can only spend as much as you have in your checking. Hardeman also has this tip: "If you don't like your current due date, you can always call your bank and ask them to change it."
8. They Use Free Credit-Monitoring Services
Credit Karma is a free credit-monitoring service that will give your credit score instantly or send you free reports every week. It also keeps you up to date on all your accounts and the factors that impact your score. You can break your score down by "credit factors" and get a snapshot in how you do in each category (and how important each category is). One of the best things about Credit Karma, in my experience, is that it will email you if something seems wrong. If you miss a payment on accident, for example, you can quickly address it with your credit card company.
With sites like Credit Karma, you can "make sure you know how your credit looks before a lender or landlord takes a look," Hardeman says. She notes that you can also file a dispute for free directly with the credit bureau on Credit Karma if you catch any errors on your credit report.
9. They Aren't Afraid of Opening New Accounts
"My FICO scores will drop if I apply for new credit" is classified as a myth by FICO. Opening new cards does lower your average age of credit, but it also ups the amount of available credit you have. The main thing to avoid is having a lot of money owed on a lot of cards. It indicates overextension.
Consumers worry too much about about hard inquiries.
Hardeman believes consumers worry too much about about hard inquiries. She explains that "hard inquiries generally occur when a bank or lender checks your credit report to make a lending decision. You typically authorize them to take a look at your credit report as a part of the application." While hard inquiries can lower your credit score, Hardeman admits, it generally only drops by a few points. "Remember that hard inquiries make up only 10 percent of your total credit score."
10. They Don't Rush to Pay Off Their Loans
People with good credit aren't scared of student loans, car payments, or mortgages. In fact, they know a healthy mix of credit types, including planned installment loans, can help your score. It signals that you are reliable, and it helps build your history. Hardeman says it's simple: "Using credit responsibly will help you build a positive credit score."
Now that you know these 10 secrets, you're on the way to building a strong score, too.
Beware: This Home Decor Is Actually a Breeding Ground For Mosquitoes
Zika has elevated mosquitoes from irritating pests to serious health threat, so it's important to do everything you can to keep them out of your home and yard this Summer. You can help repel mosquitoes with certain plants and scented candles, but one of the best ways to keep them at bay is to remove stagnant water, the place they go to breed.
Mosquitoes can lay eggs in a shockingly small amount of water, so while you may have been focusing your efforts on removing more obvious large water-holding vessels around your property, you should also turn your attention to those less obvious ones. Basically anything that water can pool on - from the lids of trash cans to the top of wrinkled tarps - can become a breeding ground for mosquitoes. Terrifying!
We consulted with Rentokil North America, a leading pest control company, to find out the potential mosquito breeding grounds most often overlooked in homes and yards. Keep reading to find out what they are and what you can do about it.
9 Ways Prince William Is Keeping His Mother's Memory Alive Within His Own Family
Prince William was just 14 years old when his mother, Princess Diana, was tragically killed in a car accident in August 1997. Now that he and his brother Harry are adults, they've been opening up more and more about how their mother's death has impacted their lives. Recently, William revealed that what perhaps upsets him most about her absence is that she never got to meet his wife, Kate Middleton, or their kids, Prince George and Princess Charlotte. "I would love her to have met Catherine and to have seen the children grow up," he told British GQ. "It makes me sad that she won't, that they will never know her."
In addition to more modern parenting traditions like bringing his children on royal engagements, sharing official birthday portraits, and making sure George and Charlotte lead lives that are as normal as possible, William has also made sure to honor his mother's legacy in other, smaller ways, from where he lives to the services he uses to his choice of gifts for Kate Middleton. Keep reading to see nine of them now.
Kate and Pippa Middleton Prove That a Tiara Won't Come Between Their Sisterly Bond
Kate Middleton's top-secret squad may be extensive, but there's no question as to who the leader is: her younger sister, Pippa. Many of us were first introduced to the 33-year-old event planner at Kate and Will's royal wedding in 2011; Pippa made headlines for her stunning appearance, and it wasn't long before the public took interest in her and Kate's sweet relationship. And in the most considerate of sisterly moves, Kate didn't let her royal status to take away any shine from Pippa's own wedding to financier James Matthews in May 2017. How thoughtful is that? Scroll through to see Kate and Pippa's cutest moments over the years.
Kate and Pippa Middleton Prove That a Tiara Won't Come Between Their Sisterly Bond
Kate Middleton's top-secret squad may be extensive, but there's no question as to who the leader is: her younger sister, Pippa. Many of us were first introduced to the 33-year-old event planner at Kate and Will's royal wedding in 2011; Pippa made headlines for her stunning appearance, and it wasn't long before the public took interest in her and Kate's sweet relationship. And in the most considerate of sisterly moves, Kate didn't let her royal status to take away any shine from Pippa's own wedding to financier James Matthews in May 2017. How thoughtful is that? Scroll through to see Kate and Pippa's cutest moments over the years.
These 4 Insane Makeovers Prove Your Brows Can Transform Your Face
We've heard about the importance of well-groomed brows for years, but we've never been as convinced as we are after seeing these insane brow makeovers from Benefit. The beauty brand teamed up with Ouai to show us how to rock four very different brows and hairstyles this Summer, and the results have persuaded us to switch up our look.
Benefit Global Brow Expert Jared Bailey and Ouai founder Jen Atkin show us step by step how to get these different styles, so you can mix and match to create your own custom look.
The best part is that the brands have collaborated to bring us an awesome deal that will get us Instagram-worthy brows and hair. When you spend $50 on either Ouai's or Benefit's websites, you'll receive a gift of travel-size versions of Benefit Gimme Brow ($24) and Ouai Rose Hair & Body Oil ($32 for full size).
Read on to find out how to achieve these brow styles, or head on over to a Benefit Brow Bar to have an expert style them for you.
Is Your Sunscreen Safe? You Better Read This Before You Apply
Not all sunscreens are created equal. Thanks to more educated consumers, there's a rising demand for "natural" or "safe" sunscreen. But what does it actually mean? We're here to help you protect your skin from dangerous ultraviolet (UV) rays and potentially dangerous chemicals found in sunscreens themselves. Now is the time to get informed and ask yourself: is my sunscreen safe?
To understand what's at stake in each tube, we spoke to various experts, including Tata Harper, the founder of her own safe and natural skincare line. Harper was inspired to learn about safe personal care items after her stepfather was diagnosed with cancer. She realized we all use products with potentially dangerous ingredients. Sunscreen is one of them.
"Make sure the sunscreen you're using isn't actually doing more harm than good."
"Sun protection is so important, but many sunscreens contain ingredients that are absorbed into the skin and have been linked to serious health risks, and their labels can be very misleading," Harper said. "You need to make sure the sunscreen you're using to protect yourself isn't actually doing more harm than good."
Ingredients to Avoid
According to the Environmental Working Group, an organization that researches and educates consumers about toxins in personal care products, there are specific ingredients you should avoid in sunscreens. The most important is oxybenzone. It is known as an "endocrine disruptor," which means it can interfere with our body's normal hormone functions. EWG says that oxybenzone can act like estrogen in the body, and it's been shown to alter sperm production in animals. It is also associated with endometriosis and allergic reactions. The skin absorbs oxybenzone in significant amounts when we use sunscreen that contains it, and a study from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) detected it in more than 96 percent of the US population. Other troubling studies have found traces commonly present in mothers' breast milk.
Octinoxate should also be avoided for similar reasons. Like oxybenzone, it is a hormone disruptor commonly found in sunscreen and readily absorbed into our skin with traces also found in mothers' milk. When in our systems, it may interfere with reproductive functions and also cause moderate rates of skin allergies.
Those aren't the only two offenders: EWG cautions against retinyl palmitate, a form of vitamin A often listed as an "inactive ingredient" in sunscreens. There is evidence that it could heighten sun sensitivity.
Harper said she also stays clear of methylisothiazolinone, explaining: "it is a preservative that the European Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety said could not be considered safe in any concentration in any leave-on product, but is still allowed in the US." Research has found that it could cause extreme skin allergies. Unfortunately, methylisothiazolinone is becoming increasingly popular in US-sold sunscreens. Other ingredients homosalate, octisalate, octocrylene make EWG's list of UV filters with moderate toxicity concerns, including organ system toxicity, allergies, skin irritation, or hormone disruption.
There is a debate about whether sunscreens approved by the FDA and Drug Administration (FDA) are safe, even when they include these ingredients. One debate is over retinyl palmitate, a synthetic form of vitamin A or retinol. Dermatologist Dr. Neal Schultz, for example, isn't convinced that retinyl palmitate is dangerous. "The allegations of dangerous ingredients, like retinyl palmitate, have been proven to have no basis when subjected to peer review scientific studies," he said.
But EWG says its recommendation to avoid retinyl palmitate is based on results from a one-year skin cancer study performed by the FDA and the National Institutes of Health (NIH). "It found that experimental animals treated with retinyl palmitate cream and UV exposure had more skin tumors and lesions than animals treated with a cream that had no retinyl palmitate," explained Sonya Lunder, EWG's senior analyst and lead author of its sunscreens guide. She notes the agencies have initiated a follow up study to confirm and extend the findings. If you'd rather be safe than sorry, you'll want to avoid this ingredient until more conclusive evidence is found either way.
"Mineral sunscreens are a better alternative, since they create a physical barrier on the skin instead of absorbing."
In order to air on the side of caution, Harper and Lunder both suggest opting for for mineral sunscreens instead of chemical sunscreens. "Mineral sunscreens are a better alternative, since they create a physical barrier on the skin instead of absorbing," Harper explained. When shopping for mineral sunscreens, you should look for active ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. Both will protect your skin from harmful UVA and UVB radiation, without the added risks, as there is little evidence that the zinc or titanium particles penetrate the skin.
And don't be fooled by fluffy words that actually don't have any regulatory meaning, including: hypoallergenic, gentle, or natural. The FDA has no control over who can use those labels. In general, Lunder suggests checking EWG's online database for individual product assessments - even for mineral sunscreens.
Quality Is a Concern
Now that you know what ingredients to avoid and which to look for, it's time to learn about quality. According to EWG, a good amount of sunscreens for sale in America are of low quality. But you might not even notice. First, it's important to understand that there are two types UV rays. UVB rays cause sunburns and skin cancers, while UVA rays cause wrinkles and other signs of aging, in addition to skin cancers. Poor-quality sunscreens may shield you from UVB rays without shielding you from UVA rays - meaning you'll be sunburn-free, but not fully protected.
Schultz has this advice: choose a sunscreen that's marked "with UVA protection" or "with broad-spectrum protection." To be labeled that way," he explains, "the manufacturer has demonstrated to the FDA that it will shield the skin from UVA rays and damage, when used as directed."
While the broad-spectrum label is a good place to start, EWG is also advocating for higher UVA standards from the FDA. Lunder explained: "Europe requires stronger UVA protection, and we estimate that half of all US sunscreens would not be sold in the EU." That includes those marked "broad spectrum." So if you want to be sure about full protection, extra research is required. EWG's sunscreen guide can help.
The Truth About SPF
SPF "or sun protection factor" is another label you need to pay attention to (obviously!) - but it may not be as simple as you think. SPF tells you how good a sunscreen is at blocking UVB rays. According to Consumer Reports, SPF 15 blocks 93 percent of UVB rays specifically. SPF 30 blocks 97 percent. And SPF 50 blocks 98 percent. There's little upside after that. "Anything above SPF 50 is really just a marketing gimmick and can lead you to stay in the sun longer than you should," explained Harper. She notes that the FDA is even considering banning high SPFs because they are so misleading. Ironically, people may be more likely to get a sunburn wearing SPF 100 than SPF 50, because they think they're getting more protection than they actually are.
Application Matters, Too
You can have the safest and most effective sunscreen, but if you don't apply it properly it's worthless. Schultz cautions that protection from a sunscreen is only theoretically unless you use as directed: "If you don't apply enough sunscreen and reapply sunscreen after swimming, sweating, and otherwise every three to four hours, you won't get the potential protection." Even if a sunscreen is marketed as "water resistant," you must still reapply after time in the water, especially after towel drying.
We've all had a lobster moment. When you end up turning bright red after a day in the sun - even if you wore sunscreen. Schultz explains that most sunscreen failures occur from not reapplying often enough - or from forgetting certain areas. He explains: "That means the tops of ears, back of neck, and tops of feet."
Dr. Amy Wechsler, another dermatologist, offers this tip: "Apply while looking in the mirror so no spots are missed and reapply every two hours or after swimming or exercise." Taking the extra care during application will also help you avoid looking like a ghost. Rub it in!
If reapplying is key, those spray sunscreens that make it easy are probably a good idea, right? Wrong. EWG recommends avoiding sprays, which don't provide a thick and uniform coating on skin and pose inhalation concerns. And of course, sunscreen is only one step in protecting yourself from sun damage. Be sure to wear shirts and pants while you're out in the sun, and stay in the shade during the afternoon. As Harper said, when it comes to protecting your face "the safest and most effective method of sun protection is still wearing a hat!" It's the perfect excuse to get that wide-brimmed Panama hat you've been eyeing.
Tools to Help You Shop
In time for Summer, EWG has released its guide to sunscreens for the 11th year in a row. Researchers analyzed 1,500 sunscreens, moisturizers, and lip balms that advertise sun protection and found that 73 percent of the products don't work well, or contain worrisome ingredients such as oxybenzone and retinyl palmitate.
To help you find the good among the bad, you can can search its extensive list of sunscreens that do make the cut. The researchers also created a helpful interactive graphic (click below) to help you decode each bottle you encounter.
To recap, here's what you'll want to look for when shopping for sunscreen:
Look For
- Zinc oxide
- Titanium dioxide
- Broad Spectrum or UVA protection
- SPF 30 or 50
Avoid
- Oxybenzone
- Octinoxate
- Retinyl palmitate
- Homosalate
- Octisalate
- Octocrylene
- Methylisothiazolinone
- Spray-on sunscreens
We've selected 10 safe sunscreens that get a safe rating of one or two from EWG. We've either tested them ourselves or they've been recommended by the experts we spoke to. With these, there's no need to be afraid of the sun - or your sunscreen.
Why It Took Queen Elizabeth II 5 Days to Publicly Address Princess Diana's Death
Image Source: Getty / Graeme Robertson
It's been nearly 20 years since Princess Diana's fatal car accident in Paris, and the upcoming anniversary of her death has sparked renewed interest in the tragic event. When news broke that Diana had died in August 1997, Queen Elizabeth II was highly criticized for the way she handled the situation. Many accused her of failing to capture the mood of the nation and faulted her for being aloof in the days following her former daughter-in-law's passing. The queen conveyed a "business-as-usual" message by taking Diana's sons, Prince William and Prince Harry (who were 15 and 12, respectively, at the time), to church at Balmoral in Scotland hours after Prince Charles had broken the news to them. She was also criticized for remaining at her Scotland residence for too long, failing to appear at tributes near Buckingham Palace, and not returning quickly enough to London.
Image Source: Getty / Tom Wargacki
However, according to the queen's first cousin and close friend Margaret Rhodes, the queen's choice to temporarily abandon the people was due to her overwhelming concern for the welfare of her grandchildren, William and Harry. In an interview with CNN back in 2012, Margaret came to the queen's defense, saying, "She was castigated . . . for staying up at Balmoral with the two little boys. She was being a proper granny. What was the point of bringing the boys down to sit in London with nothing to do but sit there feeling sad about mum. Personally, I think I would have behaved in exactly the same way."
It was only when then-Prime Minister Tony Blair intervened that Elizabeth came back to London and acknowledged the public's outpouring of grief. "She made it all right in the end by coming down and looking at all the flowers," Margaret stated. Five days after Diana's death, Elizabeth delivered a live address to the people of England from the Chinese Dining Room at Buckingham Palace. She paid tribute to Diana, calling her "an exceptional and gifted human being," and explained her reason for being at Balmoral, saying, "This week at Balmoral, we have all been trying to help William and Harry come to terms with the devastating loss that they and the rest of us have suffered." She ended her speech with a touching statement: "May those who died rest in peace and may we, each and every one of us, thank God for someone who made many, many people happy." Watch her entire speech below.
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."
Why It Took Queen Elizabeth II 5 Days to Publicly Address Princess Diana's Death
Image Source: Getty / Graeme Robertson
It's been nearly 20 years since Princess Diana's fatal car accident in Paris, and the upcoming anniversary of her death has sparked renewed interest in the tragic event. When news broke that Diana had died in August 1997, Queen Elizabeth II was highly criticized for the way she handled the situation. Many accused her of failing to capture the mood of the nation and faulted her for being aloof in the days following her former daughter-in-law's passing. The queen conveyed a "business-as-usual" message by taking Diana's sons, Prince William and Prince Harry (who were 15 and 12, respectively, at the time), to church at Balmoral in Scotland hours after Prince Charles had broken the news to them. She was also criticized for remaining at her Scotland residence for too long, failing to appear at tributes near Buckingham Palace, and not returning quickly enough to London.
Image Source: Getty / Tom Wargacki
However, according to the queen's first cousin and close friend Margaret Rhodes, the queen's choice to temporarily abandon the people was due to her overwhelming concern for the welfare of her grandchildren, William and Harry. In an interview with CNN back in 2012, Margaret came to the queen's defense, saying, "She was castigated . . . for staying up at Balmoral with the two little boys. She was being a proper granny. What was the point of bringing the boys down to sit in London with nothing to do but sit there feeling sad about mum. Personally, I think I would have behaved in exactly the same way."
It was only when then-Prime Minister Tony Blair intervened that Elizabeth came back to London and acknowledged the public's outpouring of grief. "She made it all right in the end by coming down and looking at all the flowers," Margaret stated. Five days after Diana's death, Elizabeth delivered a live address to the people of England from the Chinese Dining Room at Buckingham Palace. She paid tribute to Diana, calling her "an exceptional and gifted human being," and explained her reason for being at Balmoral, saying, "This week at Balmoral, we have all been trying to help William and Harry come to terms with the devastating loss that they and the rest of us have suffered." She ended her speech with a touching statement: "May those who died rest in peace and may we, each and every one of us, thank God for someone who made many, many people happy." Watch her entire speech below.
The Simple Reason Prince William Doesn't Wear a Wedding Ring
When Prince William proposed to Kate Middleton in 2010, he gave her the stunning 12-carat oval blue Ceylon sapphire ring that his late mother, Princess Diana, wore during her marriage to Prince Charles. And when the two tied the knot in a lavish ceremony in London in 2011, Kate added a gold band to sit perfectly next to her sparkler. But despite the duchess of Cambridge's new jewelry, there was no big exchanging of rings, because Prince William never got one. The reason? It's just not his style. Shortly before the couple's big day, the palace released a statement about his decision to ditch tradition and go ringless, saying, "It is simply down to personal preference. It was something the couple discussed but Prince William isn't one for jewelry." Seeing as how William and Kate are one of the most famous couples on the planet, they would be hard-pressed to find someone who wasn't aware of their sweet romance. So there you have it.
I Tried the Viral Farsáli Unicorn Essence, and I'm Never Looking Back
Scroll through your Insta feed and you're bound to come across a beauty guru wielding the dropper tool of Farsáli's cult-status, much-hyped-about Unicorn Essence ($54), formerly known as Unicorn Tears. The moisturizer-meets-makeup primer is typically applied under the eyes in a sweeping motion to create the effect of shimmering pink tears, and beauty queens swear that it creates a flawless, unparalleled finish.
Intrigued, I had to try it out myself. First, though, a quick bit of history on the brand. Farsáli was launched in 2014 by a man named Sal Ali. His mission was to create products for his wife, Farah, who felt like something was missing in her beauty and skincare regimen.
If you noticed that the name Farsáli is a fusion of the couple's names, you get a gold star. And also, can we take a second to double high-five this proactive, take-charge man?
Anyway, after working with a group of cosmetic scientists, Farsáli's Volcanic Elixir ($37), a luxe nighttime moisturizer, was bestowed upon the world, followed by its Rose Gold Elixir ($54) - which contains 24-karat gold, by the way. With that, the brand was catapulted to fame.
Next came the product we're talking about today, Unicorn Essence, which launched at Sephora in December 2016 as a special-edition product and sold out immediately. The brand smartly decided to keep it around for good, and the beauty community hasn't quieted its rejoicing yet!
The Simple Reason Prince William Doesn't Wear a Wedding Ring
When Prince William proposed to Kate Middleton in 2010, he gave her the stunning 12-carat oval blue Ceylon sapphire ring that his late mother, Princess Diana, wore during her marriage to Prince Charles. And when the two tied the knot in a lavish ceremony in London in 2011, Kate added a gold band to sit perfectly next to her sparkler. But despite the duchess of Cambridge's new jewelry, there was no big exchanging of rings, because Prince William never got one. The reason? It's just not his style. Shortly before the couple's big day, the palace released a statement about his decision to ditch tradition and go ringless, saying, "It is simply down to personal preference. It was something the couple discussed but Prince William isn't one for jewelry." Seeing as how William and Kate are one of the most famous couples on the planet, they would be hard-pressed to find someone who wasn't aware of their sweet romance. So there you have it.
The UK Election Ends With a Hung Parliament
The UK general election is set to end with a hung parliament. Though a handful of final results are still coming through, it is now clear that Theresa May's Conservatives have not won enough seats to form a majority government, with main rival the Labour Party gaining a number of seats. The BBC predicts that the Conservatives will end up with 318 seats, a few short of the 326 seats needed to win the election outright. Labour is not far behind, with a predicted 262 seats.
This means the UK wakes up today to uncertainty. With no majority win, the first option is a coalition government, where two or more parties form an alliance to make up the number of seats needed to form a majority. The incumbent Prime Minister (in this case, Theresa May) usually has the first opportunity to negotiate this. If her negotiations fail, other parties may discuss possible options, though with such a tight vote, this could prove complicated.
A successful coalition was formed in the UK in 2010, when David Cameron's Conservatives and Nick Clegg's Liberal Democrats joined forces. Technically, a similar coalition could be an option for Theresa May this time around, but it seems unlikely that current Lib Dem leader Tim Farron would be quite so open to such a partnership; the previous one decimated his party, and the Conservatives and Liberal Democrats disagree deeply on Brexit. If no parties can negotiate a coalition, one may attempt to form a minority government, relying on the support of smaller parties to pass laws in the future.
Jeremy Corbyn, the leader of the Labour Party, won his seat in North London and took to the stage saying, "Whatever the final result, we have already changed the face of British politics." He is calling for Theresa May to resign.
With Brexit negotiations set to begin in a matter of days, there is immense pressure for someone to take the lead and form a viable UK government. This could take days, so for now, the UK waits.
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