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.
jeudi 2 août 2018
Don't Own a Loeffler Randall Handbag? These 11 Picks Will Surely Change Your Mind
Investing in a solid handbag can instantly make any outfit feel like new. This Fall, the possibilities are endless as there are plenty of trendy brands and new pieces to shop right now. Not sure where to start? We looked to Loeffler Randall because it just released its latest collection - we can barely contain our excitement about the stylish bags. From luxe shearling fabrics to croc-embossed leather and beautiful tortoise-print handles, we were sold the second we laid eyes on them. Ahead, you'll find 11 perfect picks that will complete your wardrobe for seasons to come. Take a look.
More Shoes, Please! 17 Sandals You'll Be Wearing Constantly This Summer
Summer get us beyond excited for sandal season. The comfy, versatile shoes go great with dresses, jeans, and everything in between. If you're in the shopping mood, we rounded up the best pairs of 2018. We selected a variety of price points and styles, so there's something for everyone. Look through these irresistible choices and get yourself some new sandals right in time for the beautiful weather.
The World's Most Flattering Jeans Are Finally on Sale (and They Perfectly Fit Many Body Types!)
Finding a pair of jeans that fits just right seems impossible. Luckily, one brand has totally changed that with an insanely flattering design. These Good American Good Legs High-Waist Skinny Jeans ($100, originally $149) look spectacular on all sorts of body types and come in sizes 00-24. Once you slip into these pants, you'll never want to take them off.
Luckily, the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale has just kicked off, so you can get these amazing jeans for a major discount. Get your wallet ready because a price like this won't last forever. The high rise and dark wash of this denim will give provide a slimming silhouette - you'll feel gorgeous in these magical pants.
So who else is snagging these jeans? It's time to press "add to bag."
Behold: The Most Comfortable Travel Pants You'll Ever Own - and They're Only $49!
Sitting on a plane in uncomfortable jeans. . . it's happened to the best of us. This season, give up all those skintight pairs you're sick of and opt for comfy trousers you'll never want to take off. We recently discovered these Gibson x Hi Sugarplum! Hanalei Soft Jogger Pants ($49) on Nordstrom and are totally obsessed.
Made by the brand Gibson, in collaboration with lifestyle blogger Cassie Freeman, these one-of-a-kind trousers are a total suitcase necessity. The lightweight joggers are made from a superbreathable material that is ideal for traveling, especially to warmer climates. If you're headed to the beach, simply throw your favorite bikini and go-to sandals. Or wear them on a night out with comfortable wedges and a sexy blouse. No matter how to choose to style these versatile joggers, you can easily pack them in your bag or stay cozy and rock them on while you're en-route.
Available in both a faded black and light blue wash, at only $49 you can get both pairs. You'll never want to travel without them again.
Amal Clooney's Shoe Game Proves She Is Sexy From Head to Toe - Literally
Amal Clooney has captivated us for oh-so-many reasons: She's an accomplished human rights lawyer, she snagged (former) perennial bachelor George Clooney, and she's about as stylish as they come (just ask Anna Wintour, who invited Clooney to cochair the Met Gala this year).
It's easy to see why people all over the globe are crushing on this gorgeous mother of two: Amal always looks chic from head to toe. We'd love to take a walk in her shoes, literally, which is why we're taking a moment to pay homage to her unmatched footwear game. Whether she's speaking out on world issues or hitting the red carpet with her hubby, Clooney's shoes are on point - and sexy as hell. Check out all of her sultry styles, then shop your own versions ahead.
The Best Beauty Gifts to Give Your Friends Just Because
For some of us, receiving a random beauty gift is one of life's greatest joys. There are plenty new gift sets on the web that'll light up the faces of the beauty-obsessed people in your life. From mini lipsticks to pocket-sized hairspray, giving one these "just because" will definitely earn you an award for best friend ever.
The Scary Way Your Favorite Halloween Cocktails Are F*cking Up Your Skin
Halloween is all fun and games until someone dressed as Pennywise drinks too much zombie gut punch and trips over the cauldron of Kit Kats. (No? Just us?) But besides the next-day regret that's often fueled by fuzzy memories and a few unknown bruises, you can also blame your splotchy, dry, hungover skin on the a-a-a-a-alcohol.
"Drinking alcohol dehydrates the body and skin, which can make you look puffy and bloated," said dermatologist Debra Jaliman, MD. "It also creates a histamine reaction, because it causes the facial blood vessels to dilate, causing redness and flushing." (Oh, and then there's this part that dermatologist Josh Zeichner, MD, pointed out: "Some data suggest that alcohol lowers the skin's antioxidant defenses, meaning it cannot protect itself from the environment as well as it should.")
That's the bad news. The good news is that not all spooky cocktails are created equal, nor do they have the same effect on your face. So when the only way to survive a night filled with candy-hyped children in princess costumes is with an adult beverage, we're breaking down the scary-good products that do a little damage control.
65+ Drop-Dead-Gorgeous Halloween Costumes For Rainbow Hair Colors
We love seeing beauty lovers wear rainbow hair in the most unique and gorgeous ways. Since we're not ready to ditch the colorful locks this Halloween, we've rounded up ways to incorporate more nontraditional shades into your costume.
The best thing about Halloween is that it allows you to come as you aren't - you can transform yourself into anyone (or anything) you want to be, and these extreme colors will help you do it. You can pop with a purple-haired Cheshire Cat costume, go pretty in pink by channeling The Hunger Games' Effie Trinket, or creep everyone out with a red-headed clown look. Whether you opt for a wig or go all in with real color, these outfits will make you stand out even more.
This Is Exactly How to Use a Fan Brush
The most popular item my friends ask me about is my fan brush. The flat, thin brush looks foreign compared to fluffier powder and eye shadow brushes, and the unique shape can be intimidating to makeup novices. Luckily, it is actually quite simple and easy to use. The fan brush comes in a variety of sizes and is most commonly used for two functions: to remove excess powder from the face and to apply highlighter.
A larger, thicker fan brush like the Sigma Beauty F90 Fan Brush ($24, originally $34) is the ideal tool for removing powder from underneath your eyes after baking or to highlight your shoulders or down the center of your legs. A smaller, thinner brush like the Sigma Beauty F42 Strobing Fan Brush ($18) provides a precise highlight on your cheekbones, nose, and cupid's bow.
You can also opt for a tiny fan brush like the Sigma Beauty E04 Lash Fan Brush ($12, originally $15) to apply mascara or glitter to your lashes.
With the popularity of highlighter at an all-time high, fan brushes are available at every price point, so you can test them out for yourself. Keep reading to shop a few suggestions.
17 Top-Rated Skincare Products on Amazon You've Never Heard Of
We rely on Amazon for everything from groceries to books, but did you know it's a gold mine for skincare products? When it comes to honest, knowledgeable reviews on products, it doesn't get any better than this major etailer. What's more, you often come across little-known (but highly rated) gems you wouldn't have discovered on your own.
It's no wonder Amazon has already taken steps to becoming an even bigger player in the online beauty space (recently announcing its first exclusive product). Here are 17 more reasons to hit up Amazon more than you already do.
The Sneaky Reason Disney Animators Gave Ariel the Mermaid Red Hair
Let's play some word association. If you grew up in the '90s, when you think "mermaid," you probably think of Ariel. And when you think of Ariel, you probably think red hair. (And when you think about red hair, you probably think about brushing it with a fork.) The Little Mermaid is considered a classic by both millennials and Gen Zers alike, but the titular character's ubiquitous red hair actually has a direct correlation to an older mermaid.
In 1984, Daryl Hannah starred in the live-action film Splash as a mermaid named Madison who falls in love with a human man, alongside Tom Hanks. The movie was a huge success - it was so massively popular, in fact, that the Social Security Administration credits Hannah's character for popularizing Madison as a baby name. Five years after the release of Splash, it was still so well-known that it was on Disney animators' minds when they made The Little Mermaid.
According to Oh My Disney, "The color of Ariel's hair was a point of contention among the team." While they originally wanted Ariel to be a blonde, some thought it was too similar to Hannah's character. Since red is a complementary color to Ariel's green tail, the choice was made.
9 Beauty Products That Will Cool You Down While Giving Your Skin Some Love
In the sweltering heat, it can be hard to muster up the energy to take care of your skin. Unfortunately, the mix of sweat and dirt is a perfect recipe for dullness and breakouts, so it's especially important to treat your complexion in these trying (or, actually, at all) times.
Ahead, we've rounded up some skin-loving products that will cool you down while nurturing your skin. You'll actually enjoy applying them to your face so much, maybe you'll even consider using them when it's not so hot outside.
Zoom In on Every Shade of Huda Beauty's New Demi Matte Lipsticks
There are a few good reasons almost all of Huda Kattan's beauty products go viral on Instagram. The mogul and influencer puts out a ton of items that last for hours, show up on different skin tones, and are pigmented as heck. It's her most recent launch, the Demi Matte Cream Lipstick ($20), that had us the most impressed. We got our hands on the new shades and swatched them for our weekly Instagram Series, Swatch With Us, so you can see the colors up close before you drop your cash.
Follow POPSUGAR Beauty on Instagram and tune in to our Instagram Stories every Wednesday to see swatches of more buzzy beauty products before you see 'em anywhere else.
This $159 Beauty Gadget Made Shaving My Legs Way Easier
We live in a grab-and-go society. I'm able to hop in a cab, find a date, and book a blowout with just a swipe on my phone screen. Convenience has never been more convenient - except when it comes to shaving my legs. It's my most despised beauty ritual. I always seem to notice that I need to shave when I'm halfway dressed and already 10 minutes late, so I resort to dry shaving. It's a risky move for anyone who's prone to sensitivity, but luckily, I have thick skin (literally, not metaphorically) so I can get away with it. I rarely put a razor to my legs under water. I haven't bought shaving cream since 2012.
This massager feels so good that I had to double check that I was using it on the right (ahem) body part.
Enter the Nion Beauty Opus Body ($159), a rather serious-sounding device that's marketed as a Foreo for your full body. The silicone body brush vibrates, and if used as directed, it clears bacne. While you're supposed to use it in the shower with your favorite wash, I found another use that makes my life so much easier.
When I want to get fuzz the f*ck off of my legs, I just pop this body brush under the faucet to get it wet. Then, I brush it over my legs. I'll admit that the little moving nubs feel so good against my skin that I had to double-check this massager to make sure I was using it on the right (ahem) body part. After I get my legs damp with this brush, I rub some soap over them, and then proceed to shave. It's a mess-free way to shave on the fly and way better on my skin than doing it dry. I've also found that this method works well to rinse underarms, for those days when you don't really feel like showering but need to deep clean your pits.
Sure, for $159, it doesn't come cheap - but your legs are worth it. Though I detest wearing cutoffs to anything that doesn't involve a 2000s Jessica Simpson Halloween costume, I just might mourn the end of short season now that I've got this brush to make it so much better.
12 Products I Didn't Know I Needed Before Becoming a Beauty Editor
As a beauty editor, I have the supremely fun job of trying hundreds of new products that hit the market. (It's hard work, but someone's gotta do it, right?) Before landing this job, I thought a hair towel was just a towel, a moisturizer was just a moisturizer, and all shower caps are destined to leave the portion of hair at the nape of my neck damp. Over the course of the last three years, though, I've stumbled on some truly revolutionary products that now have become necessities in my routine.
Keep reading to fall in love with (and shop) some of my hands-down favorite items.
Someone Get Us a Cold Compress - Emily Ratajkowski's Beauty Selfies Are Too Damn Hot
Emily Ratajkowski's bikini Instagrams may be hot, but have you ever paid attention to her selfies? Like with her swimsuits, EmRata - as she's known on Instagram - has no problem putting her striking features (and great taste in hair and makeup) on display. Thanks to the Instagrams of Ratajkowski, her hairstylist Jennifer Yepez, and makeup artist Hung Vanngo, there's plenty of photographic proof of her enviable selfie skills. Scroll through her most gorgeous snaps ahead to see the magic for yourself - just make sure you keep a cold compress nearby, because we have a feeling these might give you a fever.
I Had Just Learned to Love My Curls, Then They Started Falling Out
For most of my life, I've had a love-hate relationship with my naturally curly hair. During my younger years, it was mostly hate. All throughout middle school, I longed for straight, smooth hair, frustrated that my curls prevented me from trying out various hairstyles and cuts. (Granted, this didn't stop me from thinking a pixie cut would be a good idea in sixth grade - it was bad, guys.) People often say you always want what you don't have, and that was me when it came to my hair.
No matter how many people told me that they loved my curls or how jealous they were, I would look in the mirror and focus on the frizz and the flyaways. To me, my mane was unruly and hard to manage. I would spend hours in the bathroom with a straightening iron and even tried chemically relaxing my hair because I felt so insecure about it.
But as time went on and as I got older, my curly hair went from being one of the things I was most self-conscious about to one of the things I loved most about my appearance. My late-high school and early-college years were when I really began to appreciate my hair as something that made me unique. With time, styling tips, and the right hair products, I was able to control the frizz and had my hair looking the way I wanted it to. When people complimented me on my hair, I could actually embrace their comments and feel good about myself rather than shy away.
In my early 20s, I had finally come to a place of acceptance with my hair - then something extremely scary started to happen: my hair started falling out.
Anyone with thick, curly hair will tell you that your hair coming out is nothing new. On average, losing between 50 and 100 strands of hair per day is normal for any hair type. But this was far from normal. My hair was coming out in clumps in the shower, and I was horrified. I was certain that I was going bald and was anxiety-ridden over all of the different medical reasons that could be the cause of this drastic change in the amount of hair I was losing. My morning routine would lead to sobbing as I pulled more and more hair from my drain.
"My morning routine would lead to sobbing as I pulled more and more hair from my drain."
Luckily, at the time, I had recently signed up for a healthcare plan through the Affordable Care Act and was able to go to a doctor about my growing concern. In addition to my sudden increase in hair loss, I had also noticed a decrease in energy and a lack of interest in activities that usually brought me joy. Without a clear idea of what exactly was going on in terms of my health, my doctor ran a number of different of blood tests to try and narrow down a diagnosis. It was one of the most uncertain and terrifying periods in my life.
Through multiple rounds of blood tests, I eventually found out that I had Hashimoto's Thyroiditis. It sounds like a made-up condition from a sci-fi film where the heroes have to find a cure for an outbreak threatening the population. But Hashimoto's is an entirely real autoimmune disease where your immune system attacks your thyroid gland, thus preventing it from creating important hormones for different body functions. It's also a condition that I live with day-to-day, but before I was officially diagnosed a few years ago, there were a couple of major symptoms that alerted me to the fact that something wasn't quite right: depression and hair loss.
It wasn't until after it was diagnosed that I ended up finding out that almost every woman in my family, on both my mom and my dad's side, has some sort of thyroid condition. It's surprisingly common in women and is easily managed with medication. The relief I felt at finally knowing what was happening with me was overwhelming. However, something I struggled with greatly at the time and continue to struggle with to this day is the hit it took on my self-image.
I had finally come to truly love my curly hair and then, just like that, it deserted me. When my thyroid condition was still undiagnosed, and my hair loss was at its most extreme, I remember looking at my hair in the mirror and it was as if I was right back in middle school; all I could see was frizziness as the strands separated from one another and it became hard to control. For a long time, as I was figuring out the situation with my health, I would simply pull my hair back or cover it with bandanas and beanies. All I wanted at that point was to show off my curls, but at the same time, it felt hard to feel confident with in my appearance.
The whole experience made me realize how long I had taken my curly hair for granted. Nowadays, I take a regular thyroid hormone replacement, and my hair loss is back to what is considered normal. I still have days that are tough. There are days where, after styling my hair, if it turns out looking particularly frizzy, I can't help but wonder if it's a normal amount of frizz or if it's my thyroid condition acting up again. That being said, I can also honestly say that I've never loved my curls more than I do now, and when a complete stranger stops me on the street to tell me that they love my hair, it means more to me than they could possibly know.
This Is the Best Nail Polish For Your Zodiac Sign
To me, astrology is magical and helps make sense of a crazy, unpredictable world. It's a way to understand yourself and help unpack why all of us make the decisions we do. You know what else says a lot about you? Your nail polish. Whether you prefer neutrals, dark hues, bright neons, or shimmery shades, one look at your hands can reveal a lot. So, why not combine the two? These are our picks for nail polish shades based on your zodiac sign, just in time for your next manicure.
How This New Beauty Trend Helps Your Makeup Last Longer
We all know that person who totes around a water bottle more often than they wear real pants in an effort to get their daily half gallon. Now, the beauty world wants to up your fluid intake, too. From Dior to Kat Von D, more brands are sneaking liquids into their makeup products - and for good reason. According to makeup artists, there's an actual reason this formula will reign supreme.
"I am a really big fan of liquid makeup because of its staying power," said Vincent Oquendo, a celebrity makeup artist whose clients include Hailey Baldwin, Winnie Harlow, and Karlie Kloss. "When I think of a liquid product, I think long-wearing, water resistant, and waterproof."
That might explain why the dog days of Summer are the perfect time to premiere such products: if a liquid liner can last through a air condition-less commute, it can survive damn near anything.
Ahead are four new liquid products you may not have expected, and if you keep reading, you'll notice one item not mentioned. "For brows, I prefer a gel product or pomade," Oquendo explained. "It looks more natural."
You'll Never Guess Where These 10 Palettes Are From - Customers Are Going Crazy For Them
You may know Urban Outfitters for its trendy apparel and cool home decor essentials, but the retailer offers incredible cosmetics as well. We are particularly impressed by the array of palettes the site offers, so we rounded up our top picks. Treat yourself to one today.
Related: 10 Top-Rated Liquid Lipsticks From Sephora - They All Deserve a Perfect 5 Stars
The 16 New Makeup Products Our Editors Are Loving This August
To distract from your newfound panic at the realization that the end of the season is approaching - and fast - allow us to introduce you to some pretty Fall makeup. We have tested a bounty of products for months and consider the following 16 items worthy of your cash. Sure, Summer has to end, but at least you can face the dog days in a rich new lipstick or vibrant palette.
12 GlamGlow Products Every Beauty Lover Must Try at Least Once
True skincare aficionados know that GlamGlow products are worth the hype. The brand is known for its highly effective formulas that often yield immediate results, from peel-off glitter masks to blue face moisturizers. If you're unsure of which product is right for you, we have created your ultimate guide to the very best options. Check them out and pamper your skin with something new.
I Was Able to Go Makeup-Free on Vacation All Because of This Key Serum
I've never been a real makeup junkie, but I've always appreciated a well-made-up face. I started wearing lip gloss at 12, eyeliner at 13 (sorry mom, I snuck it in my backpack and put it on at school each morning), and by 18 I was applying my face each morning prior to heading off to class. But each Summer, I gave my face a break as I spent my days lifeguarding at the neighborhood pool. There, all I needed was some sunscreen, a hot pair of sunglasses, and a strong whistle I could twirl around my fingers while perched above the splashing kids.
Fast forward a dozen or so years, and all of that changed. My years in the sun, and my haphazard sunscreen application, had taken their toll. Sunspots, the early signs of wrinkles and crow's feet, and leftover acne scars left me covering up my face every chance I got. Even in the sweltering dog days of Summer, you wouldn't catch me without a layer of foundation - or a rather thick tinted moisturizer - on my face, even if I was just taking a walk in the park. I really didn't mind it, it was just part of my routine. But I was insanely jealous of all of those girls who posted photos where they looked casual, relaxed, and makeup-free on their warm-weather vacations.
I was determined to be one of them, but wasn't sure where to start until I was invited to visit POPSUGAR's Nantucket House last month. The house was sponsored by philosophy, and the brand sent me their new renewed hope in a jar renewing dew concentrate ($45) as well as their revered renewed hope in a jar moisturizer SPF ($39) to try in advance of my trip. The serum was developed as an introduction to a skincare routine for women who are starting to worry about wrinkles and lines before actually having them. In other words, me. For the week prior to the trip, I applied a few drops of the serum to my fingertips each morning and night, then gently patted them on my face. Once the serum was absorbed, I smoothed the moisturizer on top - the renewed hope in a jar spf with SPF 30 for day and the renewed hope in a jar overnight recharging & refining moisturizer ($49) for night. The whole routine took a total of two minutes each time. I didn't see how four minutes of work could makeover my skin, but it actually did.
I hadn't been paying much attention to my skin's transformation until I was sitting with some bloggers on day two of our trip. The schedule was packed, and we had just finished a barre class when we had to quickly shower, get dressed, and hop in a taxi to head down to tugboat ride around the harbor. The rush left me without a minute to spare, and as I glanced at my postshower face in the mirror, I noticed that my skin was actually glowing. The spots I'd been meticulously covering up didn't seem quite as dark and didn't need to be covered up. My skin was soft and moisturized and actually radiant. Nervous (as I knew we'd be taking a ton of photos on the boat ride) but excited, I ran a brush through my hair, threw on a pair of sunglasses, and headed out the door. My travel mates marveled at my swift transition and commented that I looked fresh and dewy. I quickly forgot that I was makeup-free and simply enjoyed the remainder of the day as we sailed around the harbor and marveled at the yachts docked in the marina.
Emboldened by my easy routine, the next day my husband and I set out to explore another part of the island, the old whaling village affectionately known as 'Sconset. Rather than wait for me to "apply my face" before heading out for the day, I surprised him when I beat him to the door after applying my new two-minute morning routine of serum and moisturizer with sunscreen. Not only was I ready faster than ever before, I was beginning to resemble those carefree vacation pics I'd been drooling over all those years. Without worrying about my foundation wearing off throughout the day and what my skin looked like under it, I was relaxed as we made our way along the Bluff Walk that day.
Who would have thought that aging would give me the confidence I needed to go makeup-free? Certainly not me. But with a strong skincare routine - even if it only takes four minutes a day - that's just what's happened to me.
Why I Decided to Stop Painting My Toenails After Decades
"Gross!" After more than two decades, I confronted my bare toenails for the first time. And I did not like what I saw. Like shaving my legs, I considered painting my toenails required grooming. I suddenly felt naked without polish.
Sure, I had seen my toenails peeping through chipped polish, but they were never completely bare. I would get a fresh pedicure for any occasion that required open-toe shoes or bare feet. Weddings, poolside weekends, and basically the entire Summer provided plenty of excuses to try out the latest nail polish color trends, and I'd had enough Winter beach getaways or hot tub outings to keep my toes legit during the cold season.
Why I Quit
Why did I decide to stop painting my toenails after more than 20 years? Well, I didn't. The choice was made for me. At 39 weeks pregnant, I read the preparation materials given to me by my hospital. The checklist stated that I should remove any nail polish from my fingers and toes. Apparently, nail polish can hinder a doctor's ability to monitor your well-being and could also interfere with finger probes. This could be especially important if you need a C-section.
Nail polish often contains toxic ingredients, and I hadn't given my poor toes a break from them since the '90s.
I know plenty of pregnant women who do the opposite, pampering themselves with fresh mani-pedis in the days before their due dates. Their nails look gorgeous clutching their newborns in those first postlabor photos. But as a lifelong rule follower, I removed my nail polish like my hospital told me to. (Well, my husband helped me take off my toenail polish since I couldn't bend over.)
While it wasn't strange to see bare hands, I couldn't even recognize my feet. My toenails looked scary. They were white and uneven. Nail polish often contains toxic ingredients, and I hadn't given my poor toes a break from them since the '90s.
Once I got home with a new baby, however, I had little time to worry about my toenails. Finding time to paint them or get a pedicure wasn't happening. Plus, it was November. I was safe from anyone seeing them . . . for a few months.
Natural Is Beautiful
Before I knew it, it was June, and I had a Summer wedding on my calendar. I had to make a decision. Would I go bare or paint my toes? My instinct: if I was going to show up to a wedding in open-toe heels and with bare toes, I might as well not shave my armpits. To me, it felt like the same type of statement - that I rejected society's expectations of female grooming. Was I ready to do that? I'm a beauty junkie! I hadn't stopped painting my nails because I wanted to make a political point.
I now feel empowered to reject the idea that women's natural bodies aren't enough.
But now that I thought about it, it was crazy that I felt pressure to hide something as innocuous as my natural toenails. And after a few months of being able to breathe, they looked healthy. What was the big deal?
I decided if anyone was shocked by my unpainted toes, that was their problem. Not that I couldn't relate. Just a year before, I'm sure I would have done a double take if I saw a woman all dressed up with bare toes. But I had changed.
Embracing my unpolished toenails aligns with my dedication to clean makeup. I now feel empowered to reject the idea that women's natural bodies aren't enough. It also saves me time and money. I no longer have to fit in a pedicure when I know my toes will be out. Although I do plan to get one soon without the polish. Who can resist a foot massage?
I Tried Meghan Markle's Favorite Cleanser - and It's Worth the Hype
I write about Meghan Markle so often that sometimes I forget I am not the Duchess of Sussex myself. I know what went into her wedding-day messy bun, and I've meticulously searched the internet to find (then run out and buy) every single beauty product the royal knows and loves. Heck, I even know what her nuptial dressing room smelled like. So when I heard that one of Markle's favorite cleansers just got reformulated, I had to pull a Beyoncé and upgrade my own face wash routine, too.
Back in 2014, a pre-Harry Markle told Allure that she "really loved" the Tatcha Rice Enzyme Powder ($65). "It just sort of foams on your face and gives you a really subtle exfoliation," she said. Four years later, the J-beauty brand has revamped the item to be suitable for all skin types. There's a classic option for normal to combination skin; deep, which unclogs oily pores; gentle, to quell dry flakes; and calming, to soothe irritated complexions.
Image Source: Getty / Samir Hussein
Whichever works best for you, Tatcha just made all iterations a lot more gentle by switching the base to a pH-neutral amino acid. This means that unlike harsh, traditional soaps, the formula that's responsible for Markle's sparkle won't strip your skin of its natural nutrients. I managed to get my hands on an early sample of the new cleanser the day after recovering from a gnarly breakout, so I got to test the validity of the brand's gentle claims.
After putting a pea-sized amount of this powder on my hands, I splashed just a bit of warm water onto it and rubbed it on my face for about eight seconds before washing off. Normally, I'm not crazy about scrubs, because I find them to be really irritating, especially over acne. But like Markle said, it lathered into a really soft, plush foam that felt both moisturizing and pore-clearing.
The morning after I tried it, I tiptoed to my medicine cabinet mirror afraid that I'd awake to finding myself a splotchy, red mess, because so many severe products can make me that way. And all I can say is - Markle, I never should have doubted you. I may not have that look-of-love twinkle that comes with marrying a foreign prince, but I also don't have any surprise breakouts, either. I'll take what I can get.
mercredi 1 août 2018
I Splurged on This $175 Baby Lounger, and It Saved Me Hours Each Day
As I approached the end of my pregnancy, I wanted to know from friends - from mom friends, specifically - what item they just couldn't live without. Not what was the most Instagrammable or the cheapest (certainly those things are important, no doubt) but what single thing made their life easier . . . made Earth keep rotating. There was no hesitation in their voices, no moment of uncertainty when they had to think it through. The answer poured right out of their mouths like syrup: The DockaTot ($175).
I did some research of my own, which left me reading both good and bad articles (I'll get to more of that later), but decided that though it was pricey, it was something I wanted to try. It was available in a smattering of different shades and prints, but I went with the cheapest one because I wasn't planning on Instagramming it.
25 Places That Are Perfect For a Midday Break at Disney World
A Disney World vacation is full of fun, excitement, and lots of magic! In addition to touring the parks and meeting your favorite characters, it's also important to pace yourself and give your kids a chance to rest, especially when the temperatures start to rise. Luckily, there are lots of places to take a break without having to head back to your hotel. We've rounded up the top spots to rest and cool off at each of the four Disney World theme parks, from rides and shows to stores and kid-friendly restaurants.
The Ikea 2019 Catalog Is Here and We're Already Making Plans to Redecorate
If you live at one of the fortunate addresses that receives the coveted Ikea catalog IRL every year (I swear mine stopped coming in the mail!), you know what an event opening it up is. Poring over each page, carefully dog-earring interior shots that are inspiring, and ripping out pages for organizational entryway baskets and rugs you need to have in your home ASAP is practically an event. Well, the 2019 catalog has dropped - both the print and digital versions - and it's rife with Instagram-worthy products and decor ideas for the nursery, the kids' room, and more. Our brains are already spinning with ideas.
7 Magic Eraser Hacks For Life's Everyday Struggles
After chasing kids around all day long, there's literally nothing we'd prefer to do less than clean the house. And when it comes to messes, we've found that the more children you have, the more dirt seems to multiply. Thankfully, there's a single affordable cleaning tool that can easily tackle what seems like a zillion headache-inducing jobs: The Magic Eraser ($8).
While you probably know that this white sponge can cut through grease with ease or forever diminish the colorful "artwork" that appeared on your bedroom wall one afternoon, there are plenty of lesser-known uses for this handy little cleaning product. Scroll through to get a peek at our favorite Magic Eraser cleaning hacks and kiss your hatred of cleaning goodbye once and for all.
15 Reasons I'm Ecstatic That Summer Break Is Almost Over
When Summer break began for my kids, I was all about giving them a fun, memorable few months. We went swimming practically every day, played endless games, and took trips to amusement parks and the beach on a weekly basis. It was great . . . for a while.
Now that we've entered the home stretch of the season, I've found myself slightly dreading the long, hot days with them. My fun mom status has officially turned into exhausted mom status, and I've over it. While swimming and sunshine were once appealing, now I'm all about finding peace and quiet. Fortunately for me, there's a light at the end of the tunnel, because school will be starting again soon, and to say I'm excited is a bit of an understatement! Keep reading for 15 reasons I can't wait to wave goodbye to Summer break.
How Coaching My Son's Soccer Team Made Me a Better Person (and Mom)
Last Fall, my son's U6 soccer team was in need of parent volunteers to coach. Right after I read the email from the director asking for any takers, I knew in my gut I needed to do it. I played soccer all throughout college and had a pretty free weekend schedule at the time, so I felt almost obligated to say yes. Being a sports mom was about to be taken to a different level, and honestly, I was kind of dreading it. I had coached in the past, but taking on kids (and their very passionate parents) was a whole new ball game.
When I told my son the news, he beamed. So, despite the fact that I wasn't looking forward to coaching, I put a big and enthusiastic smile on my face for him. As I walked onto the field for our very first practice, I introduced myself to my group of mostly nervous 5-year-olds. During our warmup, we stretched together, and I showed them how to dribble the soccer ball and play Shark. It loosened them up a little, but I could tell they were still a little apprehensive about the game of soccer, and even their coach.
There were times I almost threw in the towel, but I knew I couldn't do that. Those kids never gave up, which inspired me to never give up on them.
When the whistle blew to signal the start of our first game, things weren't much better. A couple of kids looked petrified to even set foot on the field, while others stood like scarecrows in the grass as the other team kept kicking the ball into the back of our net. "This sucks," I thought. At halftime, one of the youngest kids came up to me and said, "Coach, I'm standing by you because I'm very nervous. I don't want to get hurt." Oh, this boy had my heart. "Don't worry," I said. "If you get knocked down, it'll be OK. Just pop back up and you'll see that it didn't hurt."
During the second half, that adorable little boy got into the pack of wild 5-year-olds. He did fall, and then he got right back up. I applauded him like crazy, adrenaline suddenly shooting through me. "I can make a difference in this kid's life," I thought. From that moment on, I began to do my best for them, which started with me changing my negative attitude about coaching. I realized that it didn't suck at all. I was lucky to spend this extra time with my son and to give these kids my undivided attention a few times a week. Yes, we lost that first game (that team ended up being the best in the league), but I knew that I needed to be there every weekend for my little soccer players.
On the day of our last game, we had to play the good team again. I was a little scared knowing what happened last time, but my players didn't even remember how awesome the other team was. And despite the fact that we were down 2-0 within the first five minutes of that game, our team ended up pulling through. We won! We beat the best team! I couldn't believe it. My kids had the heart to keep going, to not be intimidated by something that scared them, and to always try their best. They were my little heroes.
Coaching 5-year-olds isn't easy. There were times I almost lost my patience and threw in the towel, but I knew I couldn't do that. Those kids never gave up, which inspired me to never give up on them. They reminded me that if you fall - just like that nervous little boy during our first game - you can always get back up and keep going. They also taught me that I (and you) can make a difference in their lives, no matter how big or small my role. Gestures don't have to be grand, and volunteering doesn't have to be every single day - as long as you show up for them, they'll show up for you.
I hope my players will always remember me as their first coach, because I will always remember the lessons they taught me. So moms, if you're contemplating coaching your child's sports team, do it. You'll get much more out of it than you might expect. And the memories you'll share with your child and those kids? Well, those will last a lifetime.
How I Survived the Hell That Is Exclusive Pumping and How You Can Too
I knew the facts: most new mothers struggle to feed their newborns in the beginning. But there's more at play than just your milk not coming in. Manually squeezing out colostrum is kind of like working with a lip pimple that makes you squirm with each pinch, except when you're yanking at the nipple in a hospital setting, looking up at your partner for some sort of head nod to indicate that your technique looks right - as if they'd know! - the whole thing is just that much more stressful.
Getting my lanky 22 1/2-inch-long daughter to latch on days one, two, three, and beyond was more than just a struggle, though. She'd arch her back and flail her head left and right, occasionally latching. Then she'd suck with the intensity of a Dyson vacuum, at which point I'd gasp, hold my breath, and shut my eyes. Just get to 10 seconds. One . . . two . . . three . . . Then I'd yank her off and wipe my tears.
Football hold. Cradle hold. Crossover hold. Nipple shield. Boppy. Breast friend. The tools and techniques changed hourly, but our dance always ended the same. I'd count to 10, yank her off, and we'd both cry, but for different reasons. Then I'd find my breast pump and shove my battered nipples into the plastic tubes of misery and jump with each tug, occasionally pumping each boob separately in order to nurse one back to health.
I saw two lactation specialists and a dermatologist - skin infections on the nipple or areola are occasionally the culprit - and everyone came up baffled as to why it was so wildly painful when my little gal nursed. There was no tongue tie and no infection. Just a lot of experts shrugging their shoulders saying variations of, "It should not be this painful," or, "It really should have gotten easier for you by now," and, "I'm really surprised these small cuts haven't healed."
Me and you both.
With my daughter's body weight on a continued dip, I followed a lactation specialist's advice and started pumping. Exclusively. Unlike "regular" moms who typically nurse at the boob and only pump to either store milk, relieve pressure, or make a bottle so someone else can handle a feeding, I was only going to pump. And given the relationship I'd already developed with my pump - I found it equally as painful as nursing, except with the pump, I was in control of the pain - I knew I needed to change some things.
My holy lactation specialist told me that for my own sanity, I should only pump eight times a day for 20 minutes max. I had been pumping 10 to 12 times a day for 30 minutes at a time to build my supply, which goes against the advice you read online, but my letdown wasn't happening until about 20 minutes in. So I had to pump for 30 minutes in order to collect anything worth pouring into a bottle.
The first few months of exclusive pumping felt like nothing short of house arrest. Day and night bled into each other. I spent my time oscillating between feeding my daughter with a bottle and being strapped into my hospital-grade Spectra S2 breast pump, connected to the wall by a six-foot-long power cord with no give. Pumping the prescribed eight times a day for my needed 30 minutes meant 240 minutes - that's four hours - and that didn't include bottle making, bottle cleanup, or the days when I had to pump one boob at a time (so an hour) because of a clogged duct.
While my journey of becoming my daughter's number one milk supplier was less than traditional (I cannot tell you how many mothers would dip their chins at me when I told them I was exclusively pumping and say, "Oh my God, I could never do that"), I'm almost six months in and have a better understanding of what really works for me.
If you're playing around with the idea of EPing, here are a few things that might help you along the way.
25 Cool Things Google Home Does For Kids
Since the moment my family bought a Google Home, our lives have been so much easier. I use it to keep track of our appointments, create shopping lists, check the weather, get recipes, set timers and alarms, and even control the lighting in my home. And my kids use it to tell jokes, sing songs, and play choose-your-adventure games (it's a great high-tech alternative to their staring at a screen all day). With Google Home, my kids never complain that they're bored, because it has so much to offer them, most of which I had no idea about until we actually bought it! Keep reading for a fun list of my children's favorite Google Home features.
Easy Halloween Treats That Even the Laziest Mom Can Get Behind Making
Following the emotional roller coaster of choosing a Halloween costume with your child, there's still plenty to do to plan for the one-day October holiday, like making treats to serve at various parties and themed activities. If you are far from calling yourself Betty Crocker but still want to wow your kids with spooky treats that they'll recall for years to come, fear not: you barely need baking skills beyond making boxed cupcakes to whip up the following Halloween sweets.
Check out the easy recipes below and start planning what you're going to do with all the extra time you have left over (returning and rebuying the costume your child originally said they wanted, probably).
These Disney-Princess-Inspired Wine Glasses Are the Definition of Bibbidi-Bobbidi-Cute
Being a tried and true Disney fan is often a full-time job in the merch department. Whether you're heading to one of the parks to score the most tricked-out Minnie ears or you're already searching for the perfect themed Halloween costume, getting the best stuff takes dedication. And while there are tons of awesome Disney princess products floating around, none are quite as clever as these cheeky wine glasses from Etsy vendor Simply Ellie Rose.
So whether you're taking full advantage of Rosé season while the weather is still warm or you prefer to curl up with a glass of Merlot and a favorite book, there's no doubt these Disney princess wine glasses are the perfect accessories. Scroll through to get a peek at the hilarious stemless glassware that represents every princess, with punny sayings that range from "Under the Influence" to "Drunkest of Them All."
12 Reasons the Willow Pump Is More Than Worth the Price Tag
Pumping is one of the worst parts of parenting, but there's a new pump that is making the annoying task infinitely better. The Willow pump was introduced late last year and is already getting rave reviews from moms, including Nicole Phelps and - spoiler alert! - myself.
I had to know what all the fuss was about and whether Willow was really all that different from the "hands-free" pump I'd been using since 2013. The company kindly sent me their product to review, and after two sessions, I put away my old pump for good and started exclusively using Willow. It more than lives up to the hype, and here's why.
22 Healthy Versions of Your Kids' Favorite Junk Food Perfect For Their School Lunches
As a parent, you want your kids to eat healthy, well-balanced meals that will give them the nutrients they need as they grow. But we also all remember the temptations of junk food at school, whether it's vending machines, the school cafeteria, or a friend's less-than-healthy lunch. While you want to pack your children nutritious meals, you also want them to actually eat their food, so sometimes slipping a healthier version of their favorite junk foods into their lunchbox is the best option! From pizza to burgers to chocolaty snacks, these healthier versions of your kids' favorite junk foods will keep them satisfied and healthy and make them feel like they're not missing out.
Important PSA: You Can Build Harry Potter Legos For Free at Barnes & Noble This Weekend
In honor of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone's 20th anniversary and shortly after the news of the newest Harry Potter Lego sets of the year - including that viral, enormous Hogwarts Castle set - Barnes & Noble is hosting an event that'll make you want to cancel your weekend plans pronto. At 2 p.m. local time on Aug. 4 in select B&N stores, you and your kids can build mini Hogwarts Expresses with Legos, which you can then take home!
Sign. Us. Up.
Although there will be limited availability in each store hosting the event, many locations are accepting sign-ups in advance, so call your local store ASAP to see if you can slot yourself on its list beforehand. You need not worry if you can't get in there quickly enough to build the mini Hogwarts Express, though, as the bookstore is offering a few other in-store opportunities that are worth showing up for.
In the spirit of the first book's 20th birthday, all paperback versions of the series will be 25 percent off, including the newest editions featuring artist Brian Selznick's incredible artwork. Additionally, all of the new Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts Lego sets that are currently for sale will be available for purchase at the event.
New Harry Potter books and themed Legos? Sounds like the perfect Saturday to us. Check out the Lego sets and books you can find at B&N this weekend ahead!
These Are the Top Rated Nursing Bras on Amazon
Finding a nursing bra that does it all - supports while being comfortable and making feeding time easier - can be challenging, but since so many women are opting to breastfeed, it's more important than ever to find an adequate nursing bra that suits your needs. Whether you want something you can sleep in and wear around the house or need something with a bit more support, we turned to Amazon customer reviews to find out which options are topping the charts.
Hold Onto Your Horns! Build-A-Bear Just Released a Narwhal, and It's the Cutest Thing Ever
Sure, Build-A-Bear is known for its adorable plush animals. Who can forget its sweet rainbow unicorn or the whole cast of your favorite classic Nintendo game? (Mario Party, anyone?) But unfortunately for your wallet, its brand-new Narwhal ($22) might take the cake in the cuteness department.
Like their land-loving counterparts, these narwhals have been dubbed "the unicorns of the sea" and have a sweet face and mystical, shimmery horn to match. We'd be lying if we said our kiddos wouldn't love giving them a tight squeeze when their bedtime rolls around.
Thankfully, these adorable little whales are already available for purchase online and are expected to hit stores on Aug. 2. Don't forget to pick up an outfit or two for your new friends - even whales can be into accessories!
7 Cute Shirts For Dog People, Because You Choose Slobber Every Day
Do you feel like loving dogs is in your DNA? Do you, the second you spot a wagging beast from down the block, immediately redirect your attention to that floppy tail of continual joy? This, friends, makes you a dog person. Whether you like 'em small so you can take them with you everywhere you go or prefer the long-haired shedders who turn your home into hairball wastelands, we found seven shirts that all dog-lovers will happily add to their wardrobes.
I'm Dreading Sending My Kids Back to School For 1 Very Specific Reason
My kids don't start school again until after Labor Day, and I already have the back-to-school blues. As a mother who works from home, I get much less accomplished during the Summer months. Deadlines are barely met. My kids fight hourly, which means I spend an ample amount of my time serving as a referee. And they eat an obscene amount of junk food. Did my kids start driving me crazy on the second day of Summer? Yes, but still, I don't want the summertime madness to end. The freedom that this time of year gives me is something I'm really not ready to give up yet.
School and all its activities is coming soon. Between homework, soccer, dance, and graduate school for me, our unstructured free time together is limited.
I adore the fact that the kids are home and on no particular schedule in the Summer. Our mornings are relaxed and stress-free. We move at our own pace. My son plays Legos on his bedroom floor while my daughter colors at the kitchen table. Usually ("usually" being the key word there), the kids let me sip (OK, inhale) my coffee on the couch while catching up on work. I don't have to shove breakfast down their throats and throw clothes on their bodies while in a huge hurry, either. There's no clock to beat or school bus to catch. The fact that my kids and I don't have to rush out the door, oftentimes without our teeth brushed, is glorious.
And the rest of our days can be spent however we want, too. At ages 6 and 4, I know that my children have plenty of years ahead of them for camps and organized activities, so for now, it's all about lounging around our home. They play in the yard, swim in the neighbor's pool, and catch fireflies. They spend their Summer days getting dirty outside and their Summer nights keeping cool in the air-conditioning. They love it, and so do I.
Because we have a low-key schedule during the week, we've been able to go exploring on the weekends. If we were overscheduled, I know that I'd feel too stressed to plan little getaways and day trips, but nope, we're making the most out of every single weekend we have (think lakes and campfires and s'mores). It's a joy to watch my kids at this age because I know that this freedom won't last forever - quite possibly not even another Summer. School and all its activities is coming soon. Between homework, soccer, dance, and graduate school for me, our unstructured free time together is limited.
So, despite the fact that my kids drive me crazy sometimes, I'm soaking it all in - the bickering, the staying up too late, the eating too much junk food - because I know that the older they get, the busier their schedules will become and the less time they'll want to spend with good ol' mom. For these last few weeks of Summer, I'll be relishing our freedom. After all, it could be the last one like it.
If You're Stocking Up on Healthy Snacks For the Kids, You Need These 16 Must Haves From Amazon
Buying food in bulk - way in advance - is a smart parenting and shopping strategy. It means you'll always have what you need in the house, and because you weren't making purchases in a rush, you likely bought better products. If you know in advance you're going to need to stock your pantry with healthy snacks for the school year, head to Amazon. The online retailer has plenty of guilt-free options available on its digital shelves. Whether you have a young child or a growing kid with a healthy appetite, we've rounded up the best bites there are.
31 DIY Halloween Decorations That Are So Simple and Easy, It'll Scare You
No other holiday inspires a range of decorations quite like Halloween. Ghouls, goblins, ghosts, black cats, pumpkins, and skulls are just some of the many motifs that captivate our imaginations in the Fall. But if you're starting to tire of the Halloween decorations available to you in stores, or just can't find exactly what you're looking for, it might be time to try your hand at the DIY approach! Whether you're decorating for trick-or-treaters outside or want to move the party indoors, try some of these DIY Halloween decorations that run the gamut from delicate festive touches to full-scale spooky displays.
Remain Calm: Spirit Halloween Launched a Hocus Pocus Collection
This isn't a drill, people. Spirit Halloween partnered with Disney and launched more than 100 officially licensed Hocus Pocus-themed items - no virgins and no black flame candles necessary.
As someone who can quote this movie word for word, I ran amuck (amuck, amuck!) picking up different baubles for myself and my mother, since we bond over the film. The line includes costumes like Winifred, Sarah, and Mary Sanderson, plus Billy Butcherson, and an array of decor, like mugs, stemless glasses, and wall art. The only thing missing is a long-form version of "I Put a Spell on You," because seriously, why hasn't Disney come out with that yet? I'd like to sing it in my car without opening YouTube, thanks.
From a Binx spell candle to an "Amuck Amuck Amuck" candy jar, read through to see all of the Sanderson-sister-inspired products you can pick up starting now!
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