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 23 mars 2018
Ever Hear of Operation London Bridge? It's Code For a Major Royal Event
If you've ever wondered what happens when Queen Elizabeth II dies, then you're not alone. Although it is a morbid thought and many Brits (and Americans, for that matter) believe in the "Long live the Queen!" chant, one day the current monarch will pass away, and when she does, Operation London Bridge goes into full effect!
We know what you're thinking: what on earth is Operation London Bridge? The good news is we actually know what this relatively secret operation is and what happens when it is put into motion, and of course we're giving you the breakdown to help you keep calm and carry on.
When King George VI (Queen Elizabeth's father) died, he had a code phrase to signal that he was gone but not to alert the people of Britain right away. It was "Hyde Park Corner," and the current monarch, aka the queen, will have one of her own when the time comes. According to The Guardian, it is "London Bridge is down," and the first person of political clout to be called and told the code phrase will be the prime minister, after the queen's private secretary, Sir Christopher Geidt.
The words, although simple and seemingly harmless, will signify that the queen has passed away and will then launch the rest of the royal family and the powers in politics to put into action Operation London Bridge, The Independent reported last year. This operation will eventually lead to the queen's funeral, and even though it'll be a sad day, it's one that everyone in the queen's circle is prepared for . . . at least when it comes to the plan of execution.
After the prime minister is notified, the Foreign Office's Global Response Centre (which is in an undisclosed area of London) will tell the 15 governments that the queen also rules. It will then spread to 36 other nations of the Commonwealth to which Her Majesty has been a symbolic figurehead.
The world leaders, ambassadors, governors general, and more are then notified. Only then does the news spread to the general public through a newsflash to the Press Association and global media outlets. It will hit the presses through BBC first when it comes to media outlets in the UK, because it is always the first to learn of royal deaths. At the same moment that it hits the presses, the announcement will be posted outside of Buckingham Palace - on the gates - keeping with tradition.
According to reports, there are numerous publications that already have stories about the queen's death ready to go, and they even have royal experts on contract to speak about the occasion. Once all of these things take place, Britain will go into mourning. Prince Charles will become King Charles beginning the next morning at 11 a.m., and the UK will have a very different head of the country.
"It will be 10 days of sorrow and spectacle in which, rather like the dazzling mirror of the monarchy itself, we will revel in who we were and avoid the question of what we have become," The Guardian reported.
What's even more interesting is that before the queen is officially laid to rest and buried, her coffin will "lie in state" for four full days. The funeral is set for 12 days after her death and will take place at Westminster Abbey. Talk about a whirlwind!
While Operation London Bridge is most likely the plan of action when Her Majesty passes, Buckingham Palace hasn't commented on The Guardian's story, nor has it laid out funeral plans for when it happens . . . at least not publicly.
17 Photos of Elvis and Priscilla Presley That Will Have You Humming "Love Me Tender"
Elvis Presley was a rock 'n' roll superstar by the time he met 14-year-old Priscilla Ann Wagner Beaulieu during a party at his home in Bad Nauheim, Germany. Despite being 10 years her senior, the two struck up a close friendship that, over time, blossomed into love. In May 1967, when Priscilla was 21, they tied the knot in a 10-minute ceremony at the Aladdin Hotel in Las Vegas; photos from their laid-back wedding would go on to become some of the most iconic images of the couple (if not only because of Priscilla's bangin' hair and makeup).
In February 1968, nine months to the day of their wedding, Elvis and "Cilla" welcomed their first and only child, Lisa Marie. Elvis was, by all accounts, a doting and loving dad who spoiled his little girl rotten. But plagued by the singer's drug addiction and infidelity, the relationship began to crumble. The couple separated in early 1972, and their divorce was finalized in October 1973. The 72-year-old actress opened up about her decision to split from Elvis in a 2016 interview, revealing that they "truly lived in a bubble" and that she "just kind of followed what he did." "I needed to find out what the world was like," Priscilla said. "I didn't really know who I was." The two still had a lot of love for each other, though - they even left the courthouse holding hands. Look back on Elvis and Priscilla's nostalgic relationship in these sweet photos.
Ellen Pompeo on Those Grey's Anatomy Exits: "Don't Pit Women Against Each Other"
This week, Ellen Pompeo aka TV's highest-paid actress stopped by The Ellen DeGeneres Show to discuss her monumental career as Grey's Anatomy's title character, Meredith Grey. Pompeo talked a lot about her interview with The Hollywood Reporter, in which she recalls the moment she realized she was making less than her male costar, despite being the show's most crucial character. "I think there are certain moments where it's important to be really truthful about our pain, and about our struggles," she said. "Sometimes, you have to go through painful things to be an example."
During the chat, Pompeo also addressed the brewing drama surrounding a recent Grey's Anatomy announcement that not one but two fan favorites will leave at the end of season 14: Sarah Drew and Jessica Capshaw, who play April and Arizona. Statements from the cast and crew insisted it was a creative decision, but many fans seemed to believe that Drew and Capshaw are leaving to help cover Pompeo's high salary. The star immediately responded to the rumors on Twitter, saying they are entirely untrue. On Ellen, Pompeo doubled down again.
"It's absolutely not true. I mean, I'm not involved in these kinds of decisions," Pompeo told DeGeneres. Instead, she blamed the exits on the characters, saying that the writers had run out of stories for April and Arizona. "It's always sad when we lose people, for whatever reason. Whether they want to go or they don't want to go, it doesn't make it any easier." Pompeo concluded, saying, "It's important for us to not pit women against each other and to really dispel the notion that women are always victims . . . we're very strong, and we're capable of many, many things." And you know, that's totally fair. I still don't want April to die, though. Just saying.
The Details Surrounding Elvis Presley's Death Will Still Upset You Nearly 40 Years Later
It's hard to believe it's been nearly 41 years since Elvis Presley died. The rock and roll legend was just 42 years old when he tragically passed away on Aug. 16, 1977. Elvis was in one of the bathrooms of his Graceland mansion in Memphis, TN, when he suffered a heart attack and collapsed on the floor at approximately 2 p.m. He was later found face down in front of the toilet and rushed to Baptist Memorial Hospital, where doctors tried to resuscitate him. After several failed attempts, Elvis was pronounced dead an hour later and his body was shipped to the morgue, where an autopsy was conducted that same afternoon.
Just three days later, a coroner's report was released, revealing that Elvis's cause of death was "hypertensive cardiovascular disease with atherosclerotic heart disease," also known as a heart attack. However, two months later, a toxicology report found 14 drugs in Elvis's system, including morphine, methaqualone, and codeine at 10 times the therapeutic drug level. Elvis's personal doctor, Dr. George Nichopoulos, remained adamant that Elvis died from natural causes and not a drug overdose, but because of the toxicology report results, the Tennessee Board of Health began an investigation into Elvis's death and Dr. Nichopoulos.
Once the investigation was complete, evidence showed that Dr. Nichopoulos wrote Elvis prescriptions for at least 8,805 pills, tablets, vials, and injectables from January 1977 to August 1977. Dr. Nichopoulos claimed he only did so because Elvis was hooked on painkillers, and therefore this was the only way to keep him away from other dangerous drugs. In 1980, he was charged with prescribing excessive amounts of drugs to Elvis and other patients. He was later acquitted of all charges, but in 1995, the Tennessee Board of Medical Examiners revoked his medical license. He later passed away at age 88 in February 2016.
While Elvis's official cause of death was ruled a heart attack, there are still several theories surrounding his death. One of them is that he's not actually dead and that he faked his own death in order to live a private life. In fact, some people claim to have spotted him at his 82nd birthday celebration in Graceland earlier this year, and there's even a Facebook group dedicated to keeping track of all of his reported sightings. No matter what you believe, the one thing we can all agree on is that Elvis was an icon who died too soon.
Drake's '70s Look in the "Walk It Talk It" Video Has Us in Need of an Ice-Cold Beverage
Is it hot in here, or is it just Drake's new look? The rapper recently appeared with a stunning, fresh set of curls in the vintage "Walk It Talk It" music video alongside Migos, and we're still recovering. In the new video, which dropped on Sunday night, the group of four throw it back to the '70s and star in a made-up dance show called "Culture Ride," with Jamie Foxx playing Ron Delirious as the "hostess with the mostess." As if their hilarious ensembles weren't enough, Drake's dance moves have us breaking a sweat. Grab your platforms and bell bottoms, and check out the iconic video above. Meanwhile, we'll be trying to teach ourselves this choreography . . .
Drew Barrymore and John Boyega Battled James Corden, and Someone Ate a Turkey Testicle
Drew Barrymore and John Boyega joined James Corden on Wednesday night for a game of "Spill Your Guts Or Fill Your Guts." Following in the footsteps of a handful of celebs who've been brave enough to face a table full of disgusting foods (including Gordon Ramsay, Anna Wintour, and Kim Kardashian), the actors had to choose between answering some seriously difficult questions, or chowing down on the "delicacies." Without ruining too much of the fun, we will say that everyone chose the food at least once . . . and it's no wonder, given Drew was asked to rank her friends, and John was expected to reveal his Star Wars paycheck! Watch all the action go down now, then check out Drew reminiscing about another late night highlight of hers!
Here's Why You Recognize Shondaland's Latest Female Lead
Image Source: ABC
Shondaland fans, brace yourselves, because Station 19 is coming. The production company that brought us beautifully rich female characters like Meredith Grey and Olivia Pope is about to introduce a new badass lead female character: Andy Herrera.
Kicking off with a special two-hour debut, the Grey's Anatomy spinoff will join the TGIT block for a 10-episode run. If you loved Andy on the Grey's Anatomy and Station 19 crossover, you're about to get the chance to meet her in depth over the next few months.
Jaina Lee Ortiz, who plays Andy, is a relatively fresh face on television, but you may recognize her from her earlier work. The Station 19 actress hails from the Bronx, growing up the child of first-generation Puerto Rican parents. After studying salsa for many years, Ortiz taught dance and toured professionally as a teenager. In her early career, she also studied acting at Maggie Flanigan Studio and took on roles in small films like the 2004 film Sad Spanish Song.
She made her television debut in 2009 on the VH1 reality TV show Scream Queens, in which she competed for a role in Saw 3D. While placing second, Ortiz continued acting and eventually landed a main role in Chris Carter's sci-fi drama The After, though the show never aired beyond the pilot. As her career progressed, the actress landed gigs for major and recurring roles on television.
Image Source: Everett Collection
She's best known for working on Rosewood for two seasons as the sexy, tough Detective Annalise Villa, who is one of the few Latina leads in primetime television. Ortiz has spoken fondly of her character. In an interview with HuffPost, Ortiz said, "My character is very Latina, let's be real. She's feisty, she has attitude, she is sexy but I feel that because of her range and what she's been through as a person she can connect to any race." After Rosewood, the actress held a recurring role as the Marine Angela Tio on the TV drama Shooter. Very recently, she's also portrayed herself in the film Girls Trip.
Like Rosewood, Station 19 features elements of a typical procedural drama. However, it's also an emotional, character-driven show. That's why we'll be keeping our hankies close at hand. Because we know how badly Meredith Grey, Annalise Keating, and Olivia Pope have kicked us in the feels, and we're expecting nothing less from Andy Herrera.
According to Her Instagram, This Is How Jennifer Lopez Maintains Those Insane Abs
Jennifer Lopez might be incredibly busy - she's basically NBC's go-to lady right now, playing an NYPD detective in Shades of Blue, judging contestants on World of Dance, and starring in the network's upcoming musical Bye Bye Birdie Live - but she sure doesn't skip the gym, even if her calendar is bursting with appointments. Sure, it is her job to stay fit, but one look at her Instagram tells us J Lo actually enjoys getting in a good, sweaty workout. This is how the star stays strong and healthy no matter where she is.
Chris Hemsworth and Tessa Thompson Are Teaming Up to Reboot Your Favorite '90s Movie
Your favorite Asgardians are reportedly teaming up for a new project, but far away from the world of Norse mythology and Marvel comics. Variety reports that Thor: Ragnarok stars Chris Hemsworth and Tessa Thompson are in talks to appear together in a new Men in Black spinoff film that will premiere in May 2019. The God of Thunder and a fierce Valkyrie fighting crime in dapper outfits? Yes, please! And fun fact: Chris isn't the only Hemsworth brother who Thompson has worked with on a fun sci-fi project . . . she also stars with Luke Hemsworth in HBO's Westworld!
Two of the Men in Black franchise's biggest stars will not return for the film; neither Will Smith nor Tommy Lee Jones is set to slip into their suits for the spinoff. But don't worry, there's still plenty of star power behind the scenes in addition to Hemsworth and Thompson on screen; the writers behind Iron Man are reportedly writing the script, and it will be directed by F. Gary Gray of Straight Outta Compton fame.
For more details, read the full story over at Variety.
11 Acne Products For Your Clearest Skin Ever in 2018
Gave up on those New Year's resolutions already? No judgment. Here's one goal that will be relatively easy to commit to this year: clear skin. No doubt, there will be breakouts that just won't let you be great - but chances are there's a product for that.
This crop of newbies (and some not so new) will do all the pore-clearing, bacteria-zapping, and skin-smoothing you need to reach your skincare goals. There's still some work involved on your part (the products won't slather themselves on!) but these powerhouse acne products have all that you need to get rid of problematic skin.
No One Asked For Bacon-and-Cheese-Scented Shampoo, but Nevertheless It Exists
Look, I love a good bacon, egg, and cheese as much as the next person. In fact, when my metabolism peaked back in college, I ate one every day. (My bagel guy even told me that I was the "only girl" who would come in to order them. Someday monuments will be dedicated to my trailblazing, feminist diet.)
Yes, I love those greasy, caloric wonders, but I don't really want my hair to smell like one. But if you do, you should know that a bacon-and-egg-scented shampoo and conditioner set actually exists out there in this wild, wild world. I guess it's for those days when you're running too late to stop for breakfast, so you just have to become your breakfast. This comes courtesy of Einstein Bros Bagels Cheesy Shampoo and Wakin' Bacon Conditioner ($10).
According to Kerry Coyne, SVP of marketing, product, and innovation for the food chain, "This is the ultimate breakfast apéritif - now our fans can shower themselves with mouth-watering scents, leaving them looking as incredible as they smell edible, all day long."
Here is where I was planning to make more jokes about smelling like a breakfast sandwich, except it turns out the joke is on me because this set is currently sold out! The people have spoken: bacon, egg, and cheese hair is in for Spring.
We're Not Kidding - These 15 Beauty Products From Nordstrom Are All Less Than $15
There are a number of reasons we love shopping at Nordstrom, from its massive shoe department to its fun Topshop collections, but nothing compares to its incredible beauty selection. The mega retailer carries all your favorite brands, from MAC to Urban Decay and Living Proof. You don't have to spend a fortune on these lush items, either. We searched and unearthed a number of affordable choices. Whether you're looking for a soothing lotion or iridescent nail polish, all of these finds are under $15.
9 Soothing Body Lotions You'll Become Addicted to This Season
Having soft skin is something we all want, but sometimes the elements get in our way. Whether you live in a cold climate or just have dry skin, combating these issues with a moisturizer is super important. To make sure you stay refreshed from head to toe, we rounded up a list of reviving body lotions you'll love. From vegan and cruelty-free brands like Acure to cult favorites from Kiehl's, we have a feeling you'll find exactly what you need. Shop our top picks ahead.
12 Hydrating Balms Your Chapped Lips Will Soak Up in 2018
I have a lip balm for my car, purse, nightstand, bathroom . . . the list is endless. Needless to say, I'm a total addict, and if you are too, you know how important it is to have one you love using. To make life easier, we rounded up a list of popular and hydrating products that will help you fight off dry, cracked lips. So whether you're headed on vacation or live in a cold climate, these picks are total must haves. Shop our favorites ahead.
I Discovered This Life-Changing Makeup Brush Cleaner (on Amazon!), and It's So Addicting
I used to clean my brushes by hand and leave them out to dry overnight; the whole process from beginning to end was a tedious task I dreaded. I recently found this genius Wloomm Electric Makeup Brush Cleaner ($30) on Amazon, and now I can't imagine living without it.
When I received it, I was shocked by how great the quality of the product was. It comes with a spinner, clear cup, eight different brush holders, a stand for everything, and even a velvet slip cover for the wand. The rubber holders vary in size and work on all my tools.
I couldn't wait to use it - I quickly filled the glass bowl with an inch of water and started cleansing. You simply stick a brush in the water, press a button to make the brush spin, and watch all your makeup seep out as the water changes color. I can't describe how weirdly satisfying this is. You'll also be grossed out when you realize all the grime that can come out of your tools. After spinning, you lift your brush out of the water and let it dry. Within minutes, it will be cleaner than ever!
Not only is it fun to use, but it was by far the fastest and most efficient process I've ever experienced. I can't imagine cleaning them the old-fashioned way ever again. Get this and it will change your beauty game forever!
The New My Little Pony Glamglow Masks Will Add Magic to Your Skin
Your favorite '80s-nostalgia ponies are now taking over your skincare routine with the new My Little Pony Glitter Masks. The shimmer-packed masks have all of the benefits of the original Glamglow Gravity Mud Firming Treatment ($59), but the new hues will make you feel like you're the queen of Equestria while nourishing your skin. The combination of licorice and marshmallow leaf is formulated to make your skin look firmer and more contoured.
The peel-off mask now comes in three sparkle-packed shades inspired by your favorite magical ponies. Princess Luna, the dark co-ruler of Equestria, inspired a black mask; Pinkie Pie, the fun-filled lover of parties, inspired a pink hue; and Twilight Sparkle, the bookworm and loyal leader of the ponies, became a purple mask.
We've loved using the original masks, but we really can't wait to try the new magical varieties and hope that Glamglow blesses us with even more pony-inspired beauty. We'd flip over a pie-scented Applejack mask, a shimmering diamond-inspired Rarity mask, or a colorful Rainbow Dash version. If Pony-lovers are really lucky, maybe Glamglow will even start naming its travel-size masks after the Cutie Mark Crusaders! We can only dream.
Read on to see the current pony-inspired limited-edition masks, which debut in April. In the meantime, you can sign up to find out when they launch and get 15 percent off your order.
This $40 Flat Iron Is a Bestseller on Amazon - Just Ask the 30,000 Reviewers Who Love It
Finding high-quality heating tools that don't cost a fortune is no easy feat. That's where this HSI Professional Glider Flat Iron ($40) comes in. It's a bestselling beauty product on Amazon, and for good reason. Over 30,000 customers have reviewed it, and 70 percent of them gave the product five stars - that's insanely good.
The iron even comes with a heat-protecting glove, travel bag, and argan oil. Buyers say that their tresses are left incredibly shiny and smooth. "High quality ceramic plates use eight HeatBalance micro-sensors to regulate the temperature and evenly distribute heat so fewer passes are needed on your precious hair," the product description states.
The straightener can get as hot as 450 degrees, and the one-inch plate is skinny enough to work with any hair length. You can even use it on bangs.
"In love with this flat iron!" one reviewer said. "Even my hair stylist wanted to steal it. The packaging was elegant and detailed, I loved every aspect of it. I've had it for the last month and it's been nothing short of perfect, it even makes these amazing curls!"
Are you sold yet? We're adding this to our shopping cart right now. It's too good to pass up.
I Tried The Wet Brush 2 Years Ago and Haven't Used Any Other Brush Since
I have an abundance of fine, easily tangled, wavy hair that turns into a knot as I sleep, wash my strands, or even commute to work. After showering, I used to spend a good 20 minutes brushing out my hair while painfully tearing out knots from my head. One day out of curiosity, I finally tried The Wet Brush ($12), not expecting it to fix much. Boy, was I wrong.
The Wet Brush has seriously changed my life (or at least my hair) for the better. My untangling routine used to take the entirety of an episode of Friends, but now I can get it done in just a single rendition of Phoebe's "Smelly Cat." The brush glides through my hair without snagging and miraculously never tears it out of my head. What looks like an ordinary plastic hairbrush has finally cured my ragged, split-end-filled hair.
Ever since the brush has transformed my routine, I've been singing its praises to anyone and everyone who will listen. I have two travel-size Wet Brushes, a Wet Brush at my apartment, one at work, and one at my parents' house. It's literally the only brush I want to use on my hair, and I try to make sure to never be without it. I even gift it to my friends, because honestly, they need this in their lives. As a beauty writer, I can't bear to watch them rip chunks of hair out of their gorgeous heads.
Another aspect about The Wet Brush that I love is that it is constantly coming out with cute new styles, so you can have a brush in your favorite color or design. The brand has a lifelong customer in me, and I hope to never have to go without one again.
Makeup Artist Reimagines 8 Disney Princesses With an Indian Twist - and It's Gorgeous!
Hamel Patel is a North Carolina-based model and makeup artist with over 34k followers. While her feed is filled with stunning makeup looks, it's her latest series of Disney princesses that has the internet in awe. Hamel didn't just re-create the princesses we all spent our childhood obsessing over - she gave them an Indian twist.
"I always wished I had a Desi princess to look up to while growing up, so I decided to take it into my own hands!" Hamel told POPSUGAR about her inspiration for the looks, feeling "the lack of Desi representation in the Disney community" from a young age.
She transformed into Belle, Mulan, Cinderella, Pocahontas, Snow White, Jasmine, Princess Aurora, and Ariel with bold makeup and then upped the ante with traditional Indian attire and accessories. "Trying to keep all the looks different was really difficult, so I tried different styles and used colors that matched each princess," Hamel explained. Not only does her Belle look have a rose, but she's wearing a yellow sari and a sparkling bindi. Read on to see the reimagined princesses, and prepare to be amazed.
7 Bathroom Updates That Increased the Value of My Home
After buying our condo three years ago, my husband and I knew we'd eventually have to redo the guest bathroom in our hallway. It had a wobbly shower insert, dated finishes, and an impractical vanity without much storage. I hated going in there. So after a couple years of saving - and avoiding the room - we decided to bite the bullet and take on a small remodel project.
A before photo of my bathroom.
An after photo of my bathroom.
Creating a bathroom that reflected my own style was one of the main goals of the project. But I also wanted to stay in budget and avoid quirky updates that would decrease the value of my home. After doing some research, I discovered where I could save - and where I should splurge.
Don't just take my word for it. I caught up with HGTV star Scott McGillivray to check my work. After talking to him, I now know which updates gave me the most bang for my buck. McGillivray is the host of Income Property and wrote How to Add Value to Your Home. According to him, "next to the kitchen, the bathroom is the most important room in the house when it comes to resale."
That doesn't mean you have to spend more to make more. There are specific updates in the bathroom that are worth the investment, and others areas where a little goes a long way. Based on McGillivray's expertise these were the seven changes that had the biggest impact on my home's value.
Change the mirror.
"My number one suggestion is to get rid of the frameless builder grade mirror over the vanity," says McGillivray. Check! I did just that. We found this modern mirror ($240) that came with the bonus of a built-in shelf to hold candles, a small vase, or guest toiletries. It also acts as a statement piece.
Choose affordable tile.
What's the best place to save when you're redoing your bathroom? Tile, says McGillivray. "There are so many great, inexpensive tile options out there. I don't know why anyone would blow their budget on high-end tile." The marble hexagon floor tile is one of my favorite details in my bathroom, but it didn't break the bank. We were dedicated to getting an affordable price and limited ourselves to looking at wholesale warehouses - not even entertaining more expensive options.
Can't help yourself? "If there's a really expensive version that you've fallen in love with use it as a feature somewhere, like over the vanity, and then surround it with a less expensive version," recommends McGillivray. He also has this advice for making less-expensive tile last: "Make sure you've got a good waterproofing system like Kerdi board underneath it. This will ensure that whatever tile you choose it will last as long as you live in the house."
Get rid of 1980s wall texture.
I was determined to rid myself of that orange-peel look on the bathroom walls. But I wondered, was the more modern clean look worth the expense? "Yes," McGillivray reassures. "If it looks dated it indicates that it might not be well taken care of, and it might put potential buyers off." It's the same with those classic blue and pink fixtures, he says. "Some people like the retro feel, but they can be a nightmare for resale value."
Opt for frameless glass shower doors.
"Two things that are seriously worth considering are frameless glass shower doors and heated floors," says McGillivray. "I wouldn't go so far as to say they always add value, but I try to include them whenever possible." While we didn't need heated floors in San Francisco, we did change out our aging frosted shower insert for glass doors and blue glass subway tile.
Increase storage.
I decided to chuck my existing vanity, which was an awkward height and had no shelves or drawers inside. I traded it for the GODMORGON / BRÅVIKEN model from Ikea, which has deep drawers and a decent amount of space around the sink.
A vanity with storage must always be considered, according to McGillivray. "Don't get me wrong, pedestal sinks are nice," he says. "But they're really only practical in small powder rooms. Get as big a vanity as the room can handle and make sure it's got plenty of storage space."
Mix high and low.
"I've never believed that you have to spend a ton of money to make a room look great and to get a good return on investment," McGillivray reassures. "Spend money and invest in high-quality items when it comes to the items you touch everyday - like faucets and hardware."
I'm happy to say I took that approach. As mentioned, I opted for the GODMORGON / BRÅVIKEN vanity, which cost $479 from Ikea. It looks remarkably like the modern high-end vanities that go for thousands of dollars. I paired this "low" item with high-end hardware. We went for sink and shower pieces from the European brand Grohe. Chances are that potential buyers will notice the quality brand name, if and when we resell.
Add non-permanent personality.
"When it comes to resale value, you always want to keep the major elements clean and simple. Stick with neutral colors," says McGillivray. But let's be honest, I wasn't selling my place tomorrow and wanted to have a little bit of fun. According to McGillivray, it's safe to personalize things like lighting, hardware, and accessories. That's what we did with our light from Cedar & Moss ($269) and print from Minted ($165).
"There's no particular accessory that adds value," McGillivray explains. "It's more about how they work together to make the space look fresh and updated." Admittedly, when it came to our accessories my husband and I didn't worry about matchy-matchy. We wanted accessories that had the same overall feel, without obsessing over whether the wood or metals matched. And here's the beauty: if the next buyer doesn't like those non-permanent details, they can always change them.
11 Supersimple Ways to Make Your Home Smell So Fresh and So Clean
Have you ever come home from a long day of work, stepped through your door, and noticed that your home smells a little musty? Between lingering food smells from the kitchen, damp towels in the bathroom, and other day-to-day activities, there are lots of things that contribute to your home smelling a little less than fresh. It happens to the best of us, but luckily it's an easy fix! DIY air fresheners, houseplants aplenty, and some essential cleaning tips are some of our favorite ways to get a fresh home that smells amazing.
14 Ways to Stay Organized in a Small Space
Living in a small space is, well, small. Us apartment and tiny-home dwellers know all too well the struggles of trying to fit all of your bathroom products under the sink or stuffing shoes in a supersmall closet. While there isn't a secret serum to growing the size of your apartment (we can dream!), there are ways to stay organized and make the most of your small space. Read on to see a few of our favorite small-space hacks.
These 37 Small Quote Tattoos Will Help You Follow BIG Dreams
Sometimes all it takes is just a little inspiration to help you make big moves. Inspiring words can motivate you - and there's no better way to remind yourself daily than with tattoos that will stand the test of time. We rounded up small and subtle quote tattoos that will change your life for the better.
No Surprise Here: Starbucks's New Crystal Ball Frappuccino Is an Instagram GOLDMINE
Your future is looking sugary and delicious because Starbucks just launched a brand-new drink: the Crystal Ball Frappuccino. This sure-to-be-viral beverage is far tastier and looks way more magical than the over-the-top Unicorn Frappuccino that took over the internet and the entire damn world last year. It features a peachy cream base with a marbled turquoise appearance, and is topped with peach-flavored whipped cream and a sprinkle of colorful candy pieces. Starbucks baristas are topping the blended drinks with either blue, purple, or green candied gems, and each color signifies a different "fortune," although it looks like some employees have been topping them with all three colors.
Of course, the Frapp addicts of the world haven't been able to resist documenting these mystically vibrant beverages on social media because they're practically begging to be photographed. The limited-edition Crystal Ball Frappuccino will reportedly be available from March 22 to March 25, so catch a glimpse of the picture-worthy refreshment below to decide if you're game for waiting in what's sure to be an endless line to try one of these beauties.
If You're Planning a Trip to Japan, Here Are the 5 Cities You Can't Miss
Traveling to Japan was a life-changing experience for me, and I'd recommend it anyone. From its rich culture to its fashion-forward citizens - not to mention the decadent meals - this beautiful and welcoming country should be at the top of your travel bucket list. I only visited for a week, but thanks to the country's efficient modes of transportation as well as some strategic planning, I was able to experience some of the most popular points of interest among travelers.
Looking back, I think this country offers three key things that make it a desirable travel destination: affordability, accessible modes of transportation, and safety. I was able to visit five different places over a week thanks to the country's efficient trains, cars, and boats, all while on a budget and feeling relatively safe.
Japan, by far, is one of the most interesting and amazing places that I have visited. I would love to go back as there are so many other amazing cities that I was not able to make it to, but for now, here are my top five highlights and why these places can't be missed.
21 #MealPrep Ideas That Are Anything but Boring
Do you #MealPrep? Meal prepping, or making your weekly breakfasts, lunches, and sometimes dinners ahead of time, is the craze sweeping the nation. Many self-confessed meal preppers often take to Instagram to show off their ingenuity and handiwork. People on special diets, such as Paleo or those on Weight Watchers, have long enjoyed meal prepping, since it can be hard to pick up dishes that conform to their strict needs on a whim.
Now, meal prepping is going mainstream as more and more people try to get a handle on the week ahead. It's also a great way to ensure you eat healthy and often for less than buying meals out. In fact, meal prepping is getting a downright gourmet makeover - check out these 21 inspiring examples of #mealprep!
What It's Really Like to Quit Your Job, Drop Everything, and Move to Hawaii
It's not hard to sit back and fantasize about leaving for a tropical escape when the weather gets moody and work deadlines are overwhelming. But actually making the move? Well, it's a heck of a lot more difficult.
Somewhere along the way, this fantasy became my necessity. I needed a shift and a change in pace after a long, tough year of health issues. So after some soul-searching, I bought myself a one-way ticket, quit my job, and moved out of my apartment. I said goodbye, San Francisco - and ALOHA, Hawaii!
The first few days were a vacation with my sister and my partner on the island with me - we joined my sister's friends for nights out to dive bars and house parties, rang in the new year at a Gatsby-themed soiree, soaked up plenty of sun on the beach, and drank too many mai tais. We spent the night at a trendy hotel in Waikiki and spent too much money on expensive appetizers. I got my honorary first sunburn.
Vacation life, ya know?
Having my dear friends visit was such a blessing!
I was quick to discover island living is not always sunshine and coconuts. Once my friends left, I was alone back at the house with myself, my thoughts, and one very fuzzy golden retriever. I realized that with the bustle of Christmas festivities and hours spent packing my life into boxes for storage, I hadn't really been alone alone in a while. When the outdoor voices quieted, the weight of the past two months' worth of big moments and big decisions let themselves be felt in their entirety.
San Francisco was my home for two years. I had made best friends that became family; I loved my job and the people I worked with; I was dating someone I loved; I had an adorable bedroom with old hardwood floors and a bay window. But even though the outside looked so picturesque, on the inside, I was slowly recovering from my mental illness - a wrestle with chronic depression and generalized anxiety - and the hustle of city living wasn't helping.
I had turned to the island of Oahu for an escape, a hope for a fresh start somewhere among the turquoise waters and sugary sand.
The truth is, no matter where you are in the world, your feelings still follow. Your story still has its past. Insecurities still exist. The questions and the fears and the hurt are still there. I couldn't 100 percent expect my struggles, my heartache, and missing my dear friends, old coworkers, and yes, even the city disappear in a bubble of beach happiness. I couldn't find healing instantaneously.
During my first few weeks on the island, I quickly learned that while moving can never be completely running away, I don't think it should be. Hawaii, while a gorgeous spot to lose oneself in a beach vacation, became my sacred, quiet place for processing and restoration. I had to remind myself this wasn't vacation - this was real life, my life, and I chose it. It was a dream 10 years in the making, and it was here.
It took a few 10-hour nights of sleep, unpacked suitcases, and pictures hung on walls for a comfortable reality to set in. I wasn't alone - I was a phone call away from those I love, a few steps from a welcoming roommate, an hour's drive from the North Shore and another dear friend on it.
But most of all, I was here - with me, myself, and I.
So far, this new chapter has been all about taking a long, sandy stroll back to myself, and I'm OK with it. Let the adventure continue.
This Target-Exclusive Ben & Jerry's Flavor Is Inspired by Camping (but It's Not Too In-Tents)
Speaking as a person who is constantly on the lookout for yet another reason to go to Target, this Ben & Jerry's news is extra exciting: you can reportedly only get the brand's latest flavor at Target stores, so if you want to taste it, you'll just have to make a Target run. (But don't worry, you're only going "for one thing" - what could possibly go wrong?) The flavor sounds worth the trip, too: it's called Glampfire Trail Mix, and according to the ice cream company, it's loaded with all the fixings of a decadent Glamping trip snack.
"Inspired by glampfire tales of outdoorsy getaways filled with indoorsy perks, our trail mix is uber-chocolaty, nutty, marshmallowed-&-pretzeled, so you can get lost in the dessert without leaving the yurt," reads the flavor description, which notes the flavor as a chocolate ice cream filled with pretzels, marshmallows, and fudge-covered almonds.
Junk food Instagrammer CandyHunting reports that Glampfire Trail Mix is a Target-exclusive flavor, so be sure to swing by the frozen section during your next shopping trip. And don't worry - if there's no Target near you, Ben & Jerry's has another new flavor, Gimme S'more, that is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth!
The Fates Have Spoken, and Starbucks's Crystal Ball Frappuccino Is a Real Winner
Starbucks's latest concoction is here, y'all, and dare I say this is the best of the fun Frappuccino flavors yet? The Crystal Ball Frappuccino is available now through March 26, and trust me when I say this is one you don't want to miss, despite some of the mixed emotions the drink is garnering.
The Crystal Ball Frappuccino starts with a crème Frappuccino base that is infused with peach flavor and turquoise sparkles that create an enchanting marbling effect - just like a crystal ball, get it? But the real magic happens when the peach-flavored whipped cream is sprinkled with candy gems. The sprinkles will read your fortune, so to speak. If the sprinkles turn blue, you're destined for adventure. If they turn green, you may just get lucky. And if you get purple sprinkles, wonder and enchantment are headed your way.
Truly, this is probably my favorite Frappuccino Starbucks has ever pulled together, solely because of its simplicity and rich peach flavor. As a self-proclaimed peach fanatic, this one hits the mark. The drink tastes like a straight-up peaches-and-cream smoothie, and while mine wasn't as brightly colored as some of the photos I've seen, I didn't feel like it was missing anything.
As for my sprinkles, I got green, so if you'll excuse me, I'm about to go buy seven lucky lottery tickets and start planning my next vacation.
Heavy and Whipping Cream Are the Same Thing . . . Right?
To those of you who've been forced to choose between heavy and whipping cream at the supermarket, you've probably pondered it yourself: isn't all cream more or less the same thing?
Not exactly. There are differences in milk-fat content. All cream contains at least 18 percent milk fat: "whipping cream" is made up of 30 percent, while cartons labeled "heavy cream" or "heavy whipping cream" must contain 36 percent or more. Whipping cream, heavy cream, or heavy whipping cream all work for recipes that incorporate whisked air, but don't reach for that half-and-half; at 10.5 to 18 percent milk fat, it simply won't cut it. The more fat content a cream contains, the more stable it's likely to be in a whipped state. Check out our honey whipped topping recipe for guaranteed success.
12 Tiny Homes That Prove Small Is Beautiful
There's a lot to be said for living in a small house. Less wasted space, cheaper energy bills, and fewer chores . . . it almost makes you wonder why anybody would prefer a large home! Not to mention, one of the best features of a minuscule living space is the fun of decorating your limited square footage. In a world that would like you to believe that bigger is better, it's hard to imagine drastically downsizing your home, but the benefits can be worth it. Here are 12 tiny dwellings that will inspire your itty-bitty aspirations.
29 Things to Know Before Boarding Your First Carnival Cruise
If you've never taken a cruise before, I highly recommend experiencing it at least once in your lifetime. The almost-all-inclusive perks and fun-packed itinerary on board make it a unique travel experience - not to mention you have the ability to visit multiple destinations in a single vacation! But before you book a Carnival cruise, there are several things to note for smooth sailing. From knowing what to pack and leave at home to learning the best cruise hacks, these pro tips ahead will help you make the most of your first time.
Heavy and Whipping Cream Are the Same Thing . . . Right?
To those of you who've been forced to choose between heavy and whipping cream at the supermarket, you've probably pondered it yourself: isn't all cream more or less the same thing?
Not exactly. There are differences in milk-fat content. All cream contains at least 18 percent milk fat: "whipping cream" is made up of 30 percent, while cartons labeled "heavy cream" or "heavy whipping cream" must contain 36 percent or more. Whipping cream, heavy cream, or heavy whipping cream all work for recipes that incorporate whisked air, but don't reach for that half-and-half; at 10.5 to 18 percent milk fat, it simply won't cut it. The more fat content a cream contains, the more stable it's likely to be in a whipped state. Check out our honey whipped topping recipe for guaranteed success.
The $80 Area Rug That Made Me Forget I Hate My Ugly Brown Carpet
I live in a rent-controlled apartment in San Francisco, which is basically the equivalent of winning the lottery, and while I want to say I'm lucky for finding the unit, sometimes my carpet makes me think otherwise. My landlord hasn't updated a single fixture or appliance since, like, the '90s (even the fridge), and the apartment is covered in dirty brown carpet that has become so matted throughout the years that I wouldn't dare walk on it without socks or slippers. In addition, all of my walls are a very nonappealing dark beige that hurts to look at. It's worth it because the rent is cheap.
This year, I've been on a mission to debrown my space and make it feel cleaner by investing in a some new pieces. I purchased some cool wall art and covered my also brown sofa in fluffy blankets, but the one thing I spent forever looking for was the perfect area rug.
I searched numerous places both in person and online. I felt like all the colors and patterns I saw would make my space look even darker or more cluttered. I always caught myself eyeing white rugs, but thought, "No, that's crazy - I can't have a white rug".
Once day while browsing on Amazon, I came across this ivory Safavieh California Shag ($81) and it caught my eye. I decided to give it a try because it was affordable and I knew I could return it if I had to.
After getting it delivered to my front door within just a few days, I was instantly impressed by the quality. It's thick, fluffy, soft, and, most importantly, bright. Within seconds, my living room felt like a whole new space. The light from my bay windows reflected perfectly onto the fuzzy surface to create a fresh new feel.
The upkeep has been much easier than I thought, too. I have a shoe-free home, which helps keeps dirt at bay, and the rug's material is easy to vacuum. The real seller is the price tag because at the end of the day, if it gets ruined, I know it didn't cost me a fortune.
12 Tiny Homes That Prove Small Is Beautiful
There's a lot to be said for living in a small house. Less wasted space, cheaper energy bills, and fewer chores . . . it almost makes you wonder why anybody would prefer a large home! Not to mention, one of the best features of a minuscule living space is the fun of decorating your limited square footage. In a world that would like you to believe that bigger is better, it's hard to imagine drastically downsizing your home, but the benefits can be worth it. Here are 12 tiny dwellings that will inspire your itty-bitty aspirations.
29 Things to Know Before Boarding Your First Carnival Cruise
If you've never taken a cruise before, I highly recommend experiencing it at least once in your lifetime. The almost-all-inclusive perks and fun-packed itinerary on board make it a unique travel experience - not to mention you have the ability to visit multiple destinations in a single vacation! But before you book a Carnival cruise, there are several things to note for smooth sailing. From knowing what to pack and leave at home to learning the best cruise hacks, these pro tips ahead will help you make the most of your first time.
The $280 King-Size Bed Frame That Actually Saved Me Money
My boyfriend and I have been sleeping in a double bed together for a few years now, and while I want to say it's nice that we get the chance to be close at night, it's really just a nightmare. We are both "sideways" sleepers and move around a lot, and a double bed does not give us enough room. At last, we just finally moved into an apartment that has a large enough bedroom for us to upgrade to a king-size bed. I had been waiting so long for this that I was beyond excited.
When I started shopping for beds and mattresses, I was shocked at the prices. Considering the only bed set I had ever owned was purchased by my parents, I didn't know how much it was going to cost me. I decided to to splurge on a nicer mattress in the hopes I would have it for a long time, so I wanted save on my headboard and box spring set. Little did I know that was going to cost me another $500 or so, at the cheapest.
A friend has recently turned me on to shopping for furniture on Amazon, so I decided to take a gamble and check the site. Lo and behold, I found this Zinus Upholstered Platform Bed ($282). The reviews helped me make my decision - it has over 2,100 reviews and a 4.6-star rating. As I was reading the reviews, I noticed people said because of the wooden slats on this frame that I didn't need to purchase a box spring. The mattress could get the same amount of support by the platform bed's wooden slats. This was another money-saving win that finally convinced me to purchase the bed. An added bonus: I live in a city and didn't want to deal with the burden of a delivery. Ordering on Amazon Prime, it was simply delivered to my door within two days.
The bed arrived in a thin box and all the parts (there surprisingly weren't many) showed up in an efficiently packed set. We were able to quickly put together the bed within 15 minutes and I was shocked by how easy it was. It made me realize that not all cheap furniture has to be a disaster to assemble.
I've had the bed for about four months now, and I love it. It works in perfect harmony with my mattress, and by not having to purchase a box spring, I actually saved money.
jeudi 22 mars 2018
Some Disney Fans Are So Obsessed With This Popcorn Bucket, They Use It as a Purse
When you close your eyes and imagine Disneyland or Walt Disney World, you probably envision the sound of laughter, the sweet smell of churros or chocolate, and colorful clusters of Disney's iconic Mickey Mouse balloons. These balloons are almost as vital to the Disneyland skyline as Sleeping Beauty's castle, so it makes sense that Disney would find a way to transform them into a more permanent piece of memorabilia for park guests. During Disneyland's 24-hour 60th anniversary celebration in 2015, balloon-shaped collectible popcorn buckets were sold to lucky attendees . . . but now, they're back for the general public and better than ever!
Disney fanatics aren't walking - they're sprinting to buy their own Mickey balloon popcorn buckets at both Disneyland and WDW's Magic Kingdom. There is a regular option, which is a plastic balloon-shaped bucket with a matching handle, and there's also a special yellow version with a blue cross-body strap. The latter is extra popular, with Disney fans even joking that they'll use it as a purse after eating the popcorn!
You can find your own at various stands throughout both parks, priced at $15 each. And if you're confused about how to actually eat the popcorn inside, don't worry; there's a small door on the back of Mickey's balloon head where you can access your snack. Check out these photos of the bucket and you'll see why everybody's rushing to get one for themselves!
13 Top Tips For Traveling on Public Transport in London
Planning a trip to London? Don't get caught out spending too much on transport, or using the wrong routes. These tips will ensure you ride the tube (and the bus, and the train) like a Londoner.
Contactless Is Cheapest
Unless you're staying for a month or more, the cheapest and most convenient way to pay for travel is to use a Contactless card, like your debit or credit card. Just tap it on the yellow readers found on tube barriers, train and tram platforms, and buses. Travel will be capped to the same as a daily and weekly (Mon-Sun) travelcard for the zones you travel through. An Oyster card (a special card from Transport for London that you can top up with cash or load with a travelcard) is only capped daily at the moment, so it can work out more expensive over a week. However, if you're traveling from abroad it may be a worthwhile investment to avoid any foreign transaction fees on your debit or credit card. You can buy one from any station, for a refundable deposit around $6.
Don't Pay For More Zones Than You Need
If you're buying a travelcard, don't be fooled into spending a fortune on a zone 1-6 card "just in case". Unless you're planning to visit somewhere like Hampton Court Palace, it's highly unlikely you'll ever leave zones 1 and 2. Tourist favorites like Hampstead Heath, Notting Hill and Portobello, and Camden Market are all within zones 1 and 2.
Learn When to Tap Out
On the tube, DLR, and trains, you'll need to tap out as well as tapping in with your card. If you forget to do this, you could be overcharged for your journey. However, you don't have to tap out on London buses or the Croydon tramlink, as the fee for each journey is the same no matter how long you ride.
In Central London, It Can Be Faster to Walk
The tube map doesn't show the distance between stations accurately, and some tube stations are much closer than you think. This includes one of the most popular tourists journeys in London: Leicester Square to Covent Garden. You can walk this journey in minutes by heading down Long Acre, and it's much quicker than navigating the two busy tube stations (one of which has a notoriously busy and temperamental lift). Another famously close pairing is Charing Cross and Embankment. TFL has now produced a brilliant walking tube map that shows the average walking time between stations.
Don't Forget That Your Ticket Goes Beyond Just the Tube
A travelcard or PAYG Oyster or contactless card will let you travel on multiple forms of London transport, not just the tube. Sometimes getting a train can be quicker - want to go to Borough Market from the West End? A train from Charing Cross to London Bridge might be faster than trying to find a connection to the Jubilee or Northern line. You may be able to get to Richmond on a train from Waterloo in a fraction of the time it would take to ride the District Line. And don't forget buses: they'll allow you to see where you're going and get your bearings in a way the tube never will.
Some Bus Routes Make Great Budget Tours
I'm a huge London bus advocate. When I first moved to London, I didn't even pay for a travelcard, I just got a bus pass! It helped me learn the layout of the city and discover all manner of shortcuts I'd never know otherwise. If you don't fancy or can't afford an open-top bus tour, ride the top deck of a London bus and take in the sights for $2! There are loads of options, but I'd recommend two to start you off: the 10 from Hammersmith takes in Kensington, Knightsbridge, Hyde Park Corner, Marble Arch, and Oxford Street. The 88 takes you from Camden Town down into central London, via Trafalgar Square, through beautiful Westminster down to Pimlico for the Tate Britain. Jump off there for a spot of art or stay on until Clapham Common for my favorite South London secret, gelato at Nardulli's.
London Buses Are Cash Free
Another reason to embrace contactless payment: you can no longer pay your fare in cash on the bus. You'll need to tap in on one of the card readers. The new hopper fare means if you transfer between multiple buses (or trams) within an hour, you'll only get charged once (but remember to still tap in each time), which is a bonus given that it's not unknown for them to change their destination after you've got on!
Be Careful Where You Stand
If you want to ingratiate yourself with the locals, learn the rules of public transport. Always stand on the right on escalators at stations: this allows people to rush past on the left. This is an actual rule, not just British politeness! When you get to your platform be sure to move along, don't gather at the entrance blocking other people. There are tube maps all the way along the platform if you're unsure where you're going. On buses, don't stand in the doorway, either at the exit or by the driver, for obvious reasons!
Don't Get Caught Out at the Airport
If you're flying into London, check the airport website for travel information before you set off. Though there may be Oyster barriers at airport train stations, not all routes to and from airports accept Oyster / Contactless for payment, and most airports have two train options, a more expensive "express" train and a cheaper but slower stopping service. You'll need the right ticket for the train you're on or you could face a big fine. London Heathrow is the only airport with a tube station.
Avoid Peak Time If You Can
The commuting hours of 8-9.30 and 5-7pm are very, very busy and if you're not used to the scrum, it can be overwhelming. Commuters have little time for tourists who hold them up on their way to work / home. Try to organize your day so you don't need to use the busiest stations during these times (think mainline rail connections and hubs where multiple lines meet like Oxford Circus, Leicester Square, and Bank). The worst thing you can do in the early evening is make short trips in the center of town (Oxford Circus to Piccadilly Circus, for example) in large groups, or with piles of bulky shopping bags. Walk, wait a bit or take a bus if you can!
Don't Stand in Stupid Places
Trains and tube carriages and buses get busy. Even if it's quiet when you get on, it won't last. Move down, take seats if they're available, and for the love of Prince Harry, please don't lean your entire body against the poles that are designed for people to hold on to!
Shhhh!
Though most people will happily help you if you have a question about your journey, in general Londoners aren't exactly chatty on public transport. You'll recognize them by their headphones, or the fact their head is stuck in a book or a newspaper. Sorry if you think that's rude, but it's just the way things are! The worst thing you can do is engage a Londoner in what you think is a friendly conversation about how busy and hot the tube is and how you "can't believe" they use it every day at rush hour.
Keep a Lid on Your Booze
There aren't many places you can't drink alcohol in London, but public transport is one of them. New rules came into place a few years ago, which mean you can get fined for carrying open bottles of alcohol on tubes and buses. Plenty of folks still take their chances, but it's probably not worth the risk. Save it until you get off the tube or bus and head for the nearest pub! The rules on trains are slightly different and vary depending on the operator.
This Redditor Tested 2 of the Most Hyped Drugstore Mascaras Out There, and the Winner Is . . .
Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Emily Faulstitch
Fact: you can never have too many mascaras, especially if you pick 'em up at the drugstore for less than $10. That's why we don't think there needs to be just one "best" tube out there - there is ample room at the lash party for all of our favorite mascaras. However, one Redditor just did a face-off of sorts, by pitting two of the most viral affordable fringe-enhancers out there against each other.
Reddit user Squidshae showed off L'Oréal Paris Lash Paradise ($10) juxtaposed against Essence Get Big Lashes ($4). In the photo below, you can see the first option on her left eye, and the second on her right.
Lash Paradise vs Essence Get Big Lashes from MakeupAddiction
Back when we tested Lash Paradise last year, we noticed that the thin bristles give off a nice, defined, and natural finish. The same goes for this Reddit test; the model's fringe looks clean and fanned. There's not a whole lot of length there, but it's a great everyday, your-lashes-but-better look.
Meanwhile, on the other side of her face, the Essence tube basically had a party with her lashes. There's nothing subtle about this long, full look. Her out-to-there fringe is definitely worthy of many double takes. Seriously, someone could rename Get Big Lashes, "I Can't Believe It's Not Falsies." While there's some very minor clumping going on, as we wrote in our review of Essence mascara, that can be easily remedied by tapping off excess product from the wand before applying.
As Squidshae wrote in the comments, "I honestly like [both]. I like the Essence one for more long and dramatic lashes, but I like Lash Paradise for more full and fluttery lashes. If only I could get long, full, and fluttery all in one." Someone tell the folks at L'Oréal Paris and Essence the teams should unite for a product that gives off total mascara domination!
So basically: we're all winners. Both affordable options provide super impressive results and remind us that you don't need to empty your wallet to look super fly.
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