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.
lundi 1 mai 2017
I Lost My Husband 3 Days After Welcoming Our First Baby
There I sat, my 3-day-old infant in my arms, trembling in fear as chaos and horror played out in my living room. Muffled by my bedroom door were sirens, chattering voices, and screams that will forever haunt my dreams. Frozen and in a state of shock, all I could see in my mind was the lifeless face of the only man I ever intended to love, his lips white and his body lying on the floor in an unnatural state. "I couldn't feel a pulse, but he has to be alive," I told myself. A police officer slowly opened my door and disturbingly made his way to my bed. Out of the corner of my eye, I could see the willing arms of family members reaching out for my infant son. As the words "He's deceased" came out of the officer's mouth, all went black.
A stray bullet is how the news reported the story, but we will never know the whole truth. The bullet that killed Justin went against pure logic and had a statistical probability of one in infinity. In a drunken stupor, my backyard neighbor fired his 9mm semi-automatic handgun. The bullet managed to travel through his screen door (dodging dozens of trees) over 200 feet to our home. It crashed through our glass door and blinds, continued across our living room, and finally stopped when it hit Justin in the head at the very second he jumped up from our sofa.
We tend to refer to the next day as "the day the music died." I had a 3-day old-baby and now a dead husband.It's been two years since that tragic day, and at 33 years old, I see myself a much sadder but wiser girl. Going through something so horrific and life-altering not only changes the way you see the world, it transforms it. Grief is a very personal thing, and while I would never claim to be an expert on coping, I do know firsthand how to live with it. I like to compare it to a scar. More specifically, an internal scar on your heart and in your mind that follows you everywhere. A dark cloud that hovers over everything good and beautiful for the rest of your life. For one to truly understand the full gravity of the situation, you have to know the story as a whole, not just the ending. Therefore, I must jump back 19 years.
I was barely a teen, a 14-year-old girl in the eighth grade, when I first met and fell in love with Justin Ayers. He could play the guitar like Jimi Hendrix and crack a joke like Jerry Seinfeld. He was a smart, talented, adorable, funny, passionate boy, and I took notice. As I think back on our love story, a specific song lyric comes to mind: "Each night I ask the stars up above, why must I be a teenager in love?" I would sob, "Why can't we just get married today?" My friends and family (with the exception of my mom) would chuckle at the idea, dismissing us as kids who would grow up and realize it's just the hormones. But I never once doubted. In 2003 (one year after I graduated high school), we finally tied the knot.
Over the next 10 years, Justin and I made our own rules in life. We had several goals we wanted to pursue, so we decided to wait to start a family, knowing we needed time to grow up. We formed multiple bands, traveled for leisure and work, and wrote and recorded an album together. It was definitely outside the norm, but it was our norm, and we savored it. Then one morning, I woke up and suddenly felt different. I wanted a baby! And Justin agreed. We'd been married for 10 years, and we both knew we were ready to become parents. We got busy between the sheets and in September 2013, I became pregnant with our son, Jax.
On June 14, 2014, I remember looking at my infant son and realizing, "I finally understand!" His hair was thick and silky, his lips were bright red, and his eyes were captivating. Beyond a shadow of a doubt, bringing a child into this world has to be one of the most incredible feelings a woman can experience in life. A few minor birthing complications cost us an extra day in the hospital, but on the third evening, we were released and went home to be a family.
We tend to refer to the next day as "the day the music died." I had a 3-day-old baby and now a dead husband. I was a brand-new mother and now a widow at only 31 years old. I never had a chance to tell Justin goodbye or tell him how much I loved him. I like to think he already knew.
We buried Justin on a Saturday, exactly one week after Jax was born. The day after his funeral, the crowds were starting to disperse, and my support system was dwindling down to a much smaller group. It seems incomprehensible to try to portray the level of darkness I slipped into. A darkness that is so scary, I wasn't "allowed" to be left alone for one second. Not even to take a shower.
Life is a series of choices, and this choice to live started with my decision to get up off the bathroom floor and feed my infant son."Jess, you OK in there?" my friend Casey hollered as she banged on the bathroom door, "Jax is crying and needs to eat. Do we need to break the door down?" Time seemed frozen as I realized it had been two hours since I'd snuck away to the bathroom, granting my first chance to be alone since losing Justin. I took it as my only opportunity to bask in my own misery. The light from the hall shone brightly under the door as I lay in a pool of tears staring at everyone's feet pacing back and forth. With the chill of the bathroom tile on my cheek being my only comfort from the pain, I decided in that moment that I was ready to completely give up. I wanted to die.
I could hear multiple voices in the hallway, all pleading for me to open the door. But in the distance I could hear a tiny voice that resonated in my heart. It was Jax, he was hungry, and I knew I was his source for food. "We are sending someone to the store for formula," my mom said to me. That was the defining moment when I had to make a choice, life or death. I realized that even though the life I'd worked so hard for was gone, I could try and start a new one. My son needed me to survive, and I needed him. It took me over 10 minutes to actually stand to my feet, but once I did, I felt a little hopeful. Life is a series of choices, and this choice to live started with my decision to get up off the bathroom floor and feed my infant son.
Over the next year, I was like a chameleon. I became so many different versions of myself that I didn't know who I was anymore. Was I Justin's wife or his widow? Was I a stay-at-home mom who used to be a musician or would I sing again? Would I ever have the opportunity to have another child? I had always wanted three. The endless questions and constant wonder consumed me from the inside out. For close to 10 months, I disappeared from any social scene, social media, or social circle that didn't include a few select people. I was hiding from the world and wasting away to nothing, a shell of my former self. Then it happened again. I looked at my now-10-month-old baby and felt ashamed. That hungry infant, once crying for mommy's milk, was now starting to talk, walk, and think. Looking at my gorgeous baby boy, I once again realized that it was time for me to make another choice between life or death.
Looking back on the last two years of my life, I realize how many choices and decisions I had to make to arrive where I'm at today. I needed to find "me" again, and that required throwing myself back into my biggest passion, which had ironically become my biggest fear: music. My love for performing and music was something I shared with Justin, and it was now something I was forced to explore on my own. By sheer circumstance, I reconnected with a former bandmate and was presented with the opportunity to fill in on a few gigs. With much hesitation, I accepted. Declining the opportunity and turning my back on what I used to love would have been the much safer bet. But I knew it would mean I would end up spending the rest of my life running away from the pain and the joy it would bring.
The roller coaster of emotions I go through during a live show are endless. However, I choose to face them every night because in the end, the good outweighs the bad. I maintain the idea though that the happiness I experience day to day is by my own choosing. Every single day I wake up like everyone else and I'm faced with a choice. Some days I hate life and choose to be sad, angry, hurt, scared, resentful, and lonely. Other days I feel blessed and choose to be happy, optimistic, thankful, forgiving, and compassionate. Each day is a new decision, and with each decision brings a new outcome. I can only hope I'm making the right choices for my future, especially for Jax's.
When I close my eyes at night, I like to tell myself three things: I will be eternally grateful for you, my mommy! I will forever worship you, my Justin! And I will always love you, my Jax!
Some of the greatest quotes in life come to us in the form of song lyrics. So, I will leave you with these words from Aerosmith: "Life's a journey, not a destination. And I just can't tell just what tomorrow brings."
Jessica Ayers recently founded a foundation for young widowed mothers. For more, visit her website, The Singing Widow, where she blogs about life, loss, and motherhood.
Every Parent Should Use This Dad's "X-Plan" to Give Their Teens a Way Out of Pressure Situations
Being a teen can be difficult; you're learning to navigate a more adult world full of sometimes uncomfortable social situations, which may or may not include peer pressure, while also trying to "be cool." To alleviate some of the stress that comes with these instances, one dad is sharing an invaluable code he uses with his own kids, which acts as an out for them during any awkward social situation - and it's something you and your kids should adopt ASAP.
"As a teen, forcing down alcohol seemed a whole lot easier than offering myself up for punishment, endless nagging and interrogation, and the potential end of freedom as I knew it," Bert Fulks, a father and youth minister, shared on his blog. "For these reasons, we now have something called the 'X-plan' in our family. This simple, but powerful tool is a lifeline that our kids are free to use at any time."
Here's how it works:
"Let's say that my youngest, Danny, gets dropped off at a party. If anything about the situation makes him uncomfortable, all he has to do is text the letter 'X' to any of us (his mother, me, his older brother or sister). The one who receives the text has a very basic script to follow. Within a few minutes, they call Danny's phone. When he answers, the conversation goes like this:
'Hello?'
'Danny, something's come up and I have to come get you right now.'
'What happened?'
'I'll tell you when I get there. Be ready to leave in five minutes. I'm on my way.'
At that point, Danny tells his friends that something's happened at home, someone is coming to get him, and he has to leave. In short, Danny knows he has a way out; at the same time, there's no pressure on him to open himself to any social ridicule. He has the freedom to protect himself while continuing to grow and learn to navigate his world."
Pretty genius, right?
Bert continues his post, highlighting one important component to the plan. "Once he's been extracted from the trenches, Danny knows that he can tell us as much or as little as he wants . . . but it's completely up to him. The X-plan comes with the agreement that we will pass no judgments and ask no questions . . . This can be a hard thing for some parents (admit it, some of us are complete control freaks); but I promise it might not only save them, but it will go a long way in building trust between you and your kid."
I Lost My Husband 3 Days After Welcoming Our First Baby
There I sat, my 3-day-old infant in my arms, trembling in fear as chaos and horror played out in my living room. Muffled by my bedroom door were sirens, chattering voices, and screams that will forever haunt my dreams. Frozen and in a state of shock, all I could see in my mind was the lifeless face of the only man I ever intended to love, his lips white and his body lying on the floor in an unnatural state. "I couldn't feel a pulse, but he has to be alive," I told myself. A police officer slowly opened my door and disturbingly made his way to my bed. Out of the corner of my eye, I could see the willing arms of family members reaching out for my infant son. As the words "He's deceased" came out of the officer's mouth, all went black.
A stray bullet is how the news reported the story, but we will never know the whole truth. The bullet that killed Justin went against pure logic and had a statistical probability of one in infinity. In a drunken stupor, my backyard neighbor fired his 9mm semi-automatic handgun. The bullet managed to travel through his screen door (dodging dozens of trees) over 200 feet to our home. It crashed through our glass door and blinds, continued across our living room, and finally stopped when it hit Justin in the head at the very second he jumped up from our sofa.
We tend to refer to the next day as "the day the music died." I had a 3-day old-baby and now a dead husband.It's been two years since that tragic day, and at 33 years old, I see myself a much sadder but wiser girl. Going through something so horrific and life-altering not only changes the way you see the world, it transforms it. Grief is a very personal thing, and while I would never claim to be an expert on coping, I do know firsthand how to live with it. I like to compare it to a scar. More specifically, an internal scar on your heart and in your mind that follows you everywhere. A dark cloud that hovers over everything good and beautiful for the rest of your life. For one to truly understand the full gravity of the situation, you have to know the story as a whole, not just the ending. Therefore, I must jump back 19 years.
I was barely a teen, a 14-year-old girl in the eighth grade, when I first met and fell in love with Justin Ayers. He could play the guitar like Jimi Hendrix and crack a joke like Jerry Seinfeld. He was a smart, talented, adorable, funny, passionate boy, and I took notice. As I think back on our love story, a specific song lyric comes to mind: "Each night I ask the stars up above, why must I be a teenager in love?" I would sob, "Why can't we just get married today?" My friends and family (with the exception of my mom) would chuckle at the idea, dismissing us as kids who would grow up and realize it's just the hormones. But I never once doubted. In 2003 (one year after I graduated high school), we finally tied the knot.
Over the next 10 years, Justin and I made our own rules in life. We had several goals we wanted to pursue, so we decided to wait to start a family, knowing we needed time to grow up. We formed multiple bands, traveled for leisure and work, and wrote and recorded an album together. It was definitely outside the norm, but it was our norm, and we savored it. Then one morning, I woke up and suddenly felt different. I wanted a baby! And Justin agreed. We'd been married for 10 years, and we both knew we were ready to become parents. We got busy between the sheets and in September 2013, I became pregnant with our son, Jax.
On June 14, 2014, I remember looking at my infant son and realizing, "I finally understand!" His hair was thick and silky, his lips were bright red, and his eyes were captivating. Beyond a shadow of a doubt, bringing a child into this world has to be one of the most incredible feelings a woman can experience in life. A few minor birthing complications cost us an extra day in the hospital, but on the third evening, we were released and went home to be a family.
We tend to refer to the next day as "the day the music died." I had a 3-day-old baby and now a dead husband. I was a brand-new mother and now a widow at only 31 years old. I never had a chance to tell Justin goodbye or tell him how much I loved him. I like to think he already knew.
We buried Justin on a Saturday, exactly one week after Jax was born. The day after his funeral, the crowds were starting to disperse, and my support system was dwindling down to a much smaller group. It seems incomprehensible to try to portray the level of darkness I slipped into. A darkness that is so scary, I wasn't "allowed" to be left alone for one second. Not even to take a shower.
Life is a series of choices, and this choice to live started with my decision to get up off the bathroom floor and feed my infant son."Jess, you OK in there?" my friend Casey hollered as she banged on the bathroom door, "Jax is crying and needs to eat. Do we need to break the door down?" Time seemed frozen as I realized it had been two hours since I'd snuck away to the bathroom, granting my first chance to be alone since losing Justin. I took it as my only opportunity to bask in my own misery. The light from the hall shone brightly under the door as I lay in a pool of tears staring at everyone's feet pacing back and forth. With the chill of the bathroom tile on my cheek being my only comfort from the pain, I decided in that moment that I was ready to completely give up. I wanted to die.
I could hear multiple voices in the hallway, all pleading for me to open the door. But in the distance I could hear a tiny voice that resonated in my heart. It was Jax, he was hungry, and I knew I was his source for food. "We are sending someone to the store for formula," my mom said to me. That was the defining moment when I had to make a choice, life or death. I realized that even though the life I'd worked so hard for was gone, I could try and start a new one. My son needed me to survive, and I needed him. It took me over 10 minutes to actually stand to my feet, but once I did, I felt a little hopeful. Life is a series of choices, and this choice to live started with my decision to get up off the bathroom floor and feed my infant son.
Over the next year, I was like a chameleon. I became so many different versions of myself that I didn't know who I was anymore. Was I Justin's wife or his widow? Was I a stay-at-home mom who used to be a musician or would I sing again? Would I ever have the opportunity to have another child? I had always wanted three. The endless questions and constant wonder consumed me from the inside out. For close to 10 months, I disappeared from any social scene, social media, or social circle that didn't include a few select people. I was hiding from the world and wasting away to nothing, a shell of my former self. Then it happened again. I looked at my now-10-month-old baby and felt ashamed. That hungry infant, once crying for mommy's milk, was now starting to talk, walk, and think. Looking at my gorgeous baby boy, I once again realized that it was time for me to make another choice between life or death.
Looking back on the last two years of my life, I realize how many choices and decisions I had to make to arrive where I'm at today. I needed to find "me" again, and that required throwing myself back into my biggest passion, which had ironically become my biggest fear: music. My love for performing and music was something I shared with Justin, and it was now something I was forced to explore on my own. By sheer circumstance, I reconnected with a former bandmate and was presented with the opportunity to fill in on a few gigs. With much hesitation, I accepted. Declining the opportunity and turning my back on what I used to love would have been the much safer bet. But I knew it would mean I would end up spending the rest of my life running away from the pain and the joy it would bring.
The roller coaster of emotions I go through during a live show are endless. However, I choose to face them every night because in the end, the good outweighs the bad. I maintain the idea though that the happiness I experience day to day is by my own choosing. Every single day I wake up like everyone else and I'm faced with a choice. Some days I hate life and choose to be sad, angry, hurt, scared, resentful, and lonely. Other days I feel blessed and choose to be happy, optimistic, thankful, forgiving, and compassionate. Each day is a new decision, and with each decision brings a new outcome. I can only hope I'm making the right choices for my future, especially for Jax's.
When I close my eyes at night, I like to tell myself three things: I will be eternally grateful for you, my mommy! I will forever worship you, my Justin! And I will always love you, my Jax!
Some of the greatest quotes in life come to us in the form of song lyrics. So, I will leave you with these words from Aerosmith: "Life's a journey, not a destination. And I just can't tell just what tomorrow brings."
Jessica Ayers recently founded a foundation for young widowed mothers. For more, visit her website, The Singing Widow, where she blogs about life, loss, and motherhood.
Katy Perry's Controversial Barack Obama Comment Caused a Sh*tstorm of Backlash
When Katy Perry dyed and chopped her hair a few months back, many fans started comparing her new look to Miley Cyrus, and to be honest, the resemblance was rather uncanny. But now the singer is comparing her fresh 'do to an unlikely public figure - Barack Obama - and the internet is pretty damn pissed about it.
During a recent Instagram live session, the singer addressed a series of fan questions, one of which referred to missing her old hairstyle. When Katy read the comment aloud to the camera, she replied, "Oh, really? Do you miss Barack Obama as well? Oh, OK. Times change. Bye! See you guys later."
I'm sure we can all do without @katyperry right ??? #Loser http://pic.twitter.com/r9bQcuaCBi
- DJ SCREAM (@DJSCREAM) April 30, 2017
So essentially Katy compared dying her black hair blond to Donald Trump taking over Obama's spot in the White House. Aaaand cue the facepalm. As soon as she uttered the remark, she looked around at her surrounding friends and awkwardly said, "I should leave now," after which someone off the camera said, "OK, you're cut off." Talk about awkward.
When the internet caught wind of this contentious comment, it erupted in a multitude of tweets criticizing how insensitive it was. Read on to see a few candid reactions to the controversy.
Good morning! Barack Obama will always have more Grammys than Katy Perry. Have a great day!
- Rob Summerville (@robsummer) April 30, 2017
Katy Perry really fucking tried it with that white ass joke. What does Barack Obama have to do with your dry ass white hair?
- Ᏸecca🥀🕊 (@MJStarLover) April 30, 2017
Not Katy Perry pretending to be a woke activist then making an insensitive joke comparing her hair to Obama http://pic.twitter.com/uex3jZ8orS
- #1 snake stan (@slitherswift) April 30, 2017
What does black hair have to do with Barack Obama? You're cancelled @katyperry.
- Tonio The Divo ♕ (@_JayAntonio) April 30, 2017
@MilanChrisGordy @katyperry @BarackObama Her friends were in the background like http://pic.twitter.com/sr8gu3kEgk
- Kaldur'ahm (@MommaAfro_) April 30, 2017
This Bride's Purple Hair and Crystal Tiara Give Us Ultimate Mermaid Vibes
Get ready for major mermaid-bride inspiration. This styled wedding shoot was inspired by photographer Johanna Dye's love for the beach and the model's purple hair. To play up the theme, they included pretty crystal details on the tiara and ring. And in case the purple sunset wasn't enough to emulate mermaid vibes, the couple got into the ocean for some salty kisses. See the awesome photos!
See Every Sweet Piece of Too Faced's I Want Kandee Collection (With Swatches!)
Too Faced Cofounder and Chief Creative Officer Jerrod Blandino recently took to Instagram to share one of his enticing "sneaky peeks." The reveal, a 15-pan eye shadow palette, was a first look at the brand's new I Want Kandee collaboration in part with influencer Kandee Johnson. But the tantalizing tease was just a small slice of the upcoming collection - and we were one of the first people to get an exclusive look!
Together Too Faced and Kandee designed eight brand-new products that launch on Sept. 3 exclusively at Ulta. The delectable collection features the aforementioned Candy Eyes palette, but the sweetness doesn't stop there.
Fans of Kandee and Too Faced can also snag the new Candy Black Licorice Eyeliner, Candy Glow Highlighting Stick, Banana Pudding Brightening Face Powder, and not one but, four fresh Melted Matte Liquid Lipsticks - all curated by Kandee.
Hear that? That's the sound of our makeup bags having a full on sugar rush. And in true Too Faced fashion, each of the products smells good enough to eat (seriously, everything smells like vanilla ice cream).
We got to catch up with the duo at a press event for the launch. There, the pair shared that the collection stemmed from a routine phone call. "Kandee is one of my best friends, and she called me and said that she had wonderful ideas and recipes that could help women get their desired looks without intimidation" Jerrod shared.
As they brainstormed, Kandee revealed that she wanted to deliver a collection of her very own go-to products. "Everything I get asked the most about were the colors I wanted to create," she said. So the BFFs paired their unique expertise and passion for makeup to curate the new range.
Kandee also revealed that designing user-friendly products for women of all ages and complexions was a huge priority, and it's reflected in the fun, functional collection. "No matter your skin tone or age, these shouldn't be intimidating" she said.
Though you'll have to wait until September to get your Kandee fix, you can still get excited for the new products now. Ahead we've broken down the details of the fresh treats so you can get your taste buds makeup bag ready.
How 1 Mom and Her 12-Year-Old Son With Down Syndrome Bake Up Sweet Success
When Patricia Truel started her homemade cupcake business in 2009, it was primarily as a project to do at home with her son, John, who has Down syndrome. What started as a cozy side hustle, however, rapidly grew in demand: Truel would deliver home-baked cupcakes to customers local to her home near Columbus, OH, and by the fourth week of operation, she received an order for 48 dozen cupcakes. Truel quickly realized that she could grow the business and teach John some valuable skills all at the same time.
Now located in Marshfield, WI, Truel officially opened a shop, Cupcakes on 8th, on March 11, and John works short shifts after school - greeting customers, washing dishes, and running the register (keeping any tips he receives). He can also taste all the goodies his mom bakes up, with "peanut butter and cinnamon cupcakes" being his favorite treats, according to ABC News.
Patricia and John aim to hire more kids with special needs at Cupcakes on 8th to provide for them the same kinds of work skills and socializing opportunities that John has enjoyed. As Patricia told the Marshfield News-Herald, "It is good for John for math and counting and interaction. This is exciting for us." She even made John part owner in the company, saying, "It's a good way for him to feel important. I felt like, what better way for him to feel important than to be part owner?"
21 Rose Quartz Nail Art Ideas That Totally Rock
Though the practice of using healing crystals dates back to ancient Egypt, it is absolutely having a renaissance in 2017. That's why we are obsessed with the gorgeous rose quartz nail art trend.
Rose quartz is the perfect stone to re-create in manicure form as it supposedly has the power to incite a passion for beauty and creativity (both of which are at play in DIY nail art!). The crystal is also said to attract and promote feelings of love toward oneself and toward others. Hey, you can never have too many good vibes.
The technique itself is easy enough to master. Pick up a sheer rosy-pink nail polish (we like Essie Poppy Art Pink ($9)) and apply one coat, then doodle on little "veins" like a real crystal might have in shades of white, paler pink, or gold using a striping brush. Top with another coat of sheer pink and repeat until you have created a look you love. You can even spice it up with accent stones or half moons, or just use the manicure as a foundation for another artistic masterpiece. Read on to see our favorite examples from Instagram as well as a brief tutorial.
The Best YA Books of 2017
Magic. Young love. Heartbreak. New worlds - and old. This year's young adult book releases are on fire. Fans of bestselling series like A Court of Thorns and Roses, the Dark Artifices, and the Bone Season will finally get their hands on much-anticipated new installments, while debut authors are stunning us with what are sure to be new favorites. Escape into these 16 novels that tell important stories of empowerment, coming of age, friendship, family, and, of course, love.
The Cutest Pictures of Princess Leonor and Infanta Sofía of Spain
It seems like just yesterday when King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia of Spain announced the birth of their first daughter, so it comes as a total shock that it was 11 years ago that Princess Leonor, the heir to the throne, was born in Madrid. From day one, the little royal graced us with the sweetest pictures (and the most adorable outfits) at family outings and official events.
Then, in 2007, the cuteness doubled with the birth of her sister, Infanta Sofía, and thus began a time of matching outfits, coordinating hairstyles, and mischievous sisterly smiles. Keep scrolling to see the best pictures of the two royals through the years.
The Breakthrough That Helped 1 Woman Lose the Last 15 Pounds
Sam was working out five to seven times a week, teaching class at her blossoming studio Cycle & Row in Michigan, and prepping to compete on Jillian Michaels's show Sweat Inc. Still, she couldn't shed the last 15 pounds she'd been holding on to. "You know your body better than everyone else, and I knew I was bigger than I needed to be. I was thicker than I needed to be," Sam recalled.
Samantha Before
Sam had little success with dieting in the past and decided not to go it alone this time. Instead, she linked up with Ricki Friedman, health coach and creator of Break the Weight, to determine what was holding her back. Since Sam was already incredibly active, her major lifestyle changes needed to happen in the kitchen. In a little over three months and without making a single change to her workout routine, she lost 15 pounds.
Samantha After
A self-described "good eater," Sam dealt with quantity and portion-control issues, often finding herself feeling stuffed after mealtime. "I really struggled with actually recognizing what and how much I was eating. I've learned that food really does excite me and make me happy more than I realized before. I am envious of the people who don't think about their next meal or care too much about what they will order at a new restaurant. Since I am one of these people with an emotional relationship with food, I learned that I have to be extra aware so I can make the right choices even in the hard moments."
"It is especially hard when you are used to being really fit, really active, and you are burning a lot of calories, and you feel like you can eat whatever you want, just like when you were 15 or 16," Sam said. "Our metabolisms are not what they used to be when we were younger." Sam began taking a short walk during and after meals. She started walking 10,000 steps a day (a staple in the BREAKER program) that was separate from working out. Samantha credits walking and says that it helps her have a clear head, which helps her make better choices.
Health coach Ricki determined the amount of calories Sam needed to eat to support her active lifestyle (around 1,600 each day), and Sam began journaling her food with MyFitnessPal to keep her choices in check. Here's what an average day of meals looks like for Sam:
Breakfast: She used to load up on a big breakfast of nonfat yogurt, oatmeal, nuts, and a banana, but later Sam realized that while all those foods are healthy, it's simply too much. Now, Sam only eats the oatmeal and a small portion of nuts, which keeps her full until lunch.
Lunch: Sam makes her own salad at a local grocery store most days that's 40 percent protein (either salmon or grilled tofu), 40 percent greens, and 20 percent carbs (usually quinoa or sweet potato). She usually dresses her greens in lemon juice and olive oil.
Dinner: If Sam is cooking at home, it's typically salmon or chicken plus a cooked green like brussels sprouts or sautéed spinach. When she doesn't have time to grocery shop, she always has whole-wheat or lentil pasta on hand, so she can whip up dinner quickly. If she's out to a nice dinner, Sam orders fish with double veggies instead of a starch. However, if she has been "good and controlled all day," she isn't "crazy picky about dinner."
In her new program, Sam didn't cut out entire food groups or say goodbye to her favorite treats forever. "If I go to a party and all they have is pizza, I have one piece instead of three," Sam explained. "I am a partier, and if there is a pizza party, I am not going to be the girl who says, 'No, I don't eat that.' I had to learn if I am going to have the pizza, how am I going to correct it in other areas?"
For Sam and so many other women who want to see a change in their shape, it is all about finding this balance with food. As much as we wish an extra workout session would make up for a ton of indulgent choices, the truth remains: even when you're working out like a badass, abs are made in the kitchen.
21 Rose Quartz Nail Art Ideas That Totally Rock
Though the practice of using healing crystals dates back to ancient Egypt, it is absolutely having a renaissance in 2017. That's why we are obsessed with the gorgeous rose quartz nail art trend.
Rose quartz is the perfect stone to re-create in manicure form as it supposedly has the power to incite a passion for beauty and creativity (both of which are at play in DIY nail art!). The crystal is also said to attract and promote feelings of love toward oneself and toward others. Hey, you can never have too many good vibes.
The technique itself is easy enough to master. Pick up a sheer rosy-pink nail polish (we like Essie Poppy Art Pink ($9)) and apply one coat, then doodle on little "veins" like a real crystal might have in shades of white, paler pink, or gold using a striping brush. Top with another coat of sheer pink and repeat until you have created a look you love. You can even spice it up with accent stones or half moons, or just use the manicure as a foundation for another artistic masterpiece. Read on to see our favorite examples from Instagram as well as a brief tutorial.
The Breakthrough That Helped 1 Woman Lose the Last 15 Pounds
Sam was working out five to seven times a week, teaching class at her blossoming studio Cycle & Row in Michigan, and prepping to compete on Jillian Michaels's show Sweat Inc. Still, she couldn't shed the last 15 pounds she'd been holding on to. "You know your body better than everyone else, and I knew I was bigger than I needed to be. I was thicker than I needed to be," Sam recalled.
Samantha Before
Sam had little success with dieting in the past and decided not to go it alone this time. Instead, she linked up with Ricki Friedman, health coach and creator of Break the Weight, to determine what was holding her back. Since Sam was already incredibly active, her major lifestyle changes needed to happen in the kitchen. In a little over three months and without making a single change to her workout routine, she lost 15 pounds.
Samantha After
A self-described "good eater," Sam dealt with quantity and portion-control issues, often finding herself feeling stuffed after mealtime. "I really struggled with actually recognizing what and how much I was eating. I've learned that food really does excite me and make me happy more than I realized before. I am envious of the people who don't think about their next meal or care too much about what they will order at a new restaurant. Since I am one of these people with an emotional relationship with food, I learned that I have to be extra aware so I can make the right choices even in the hard moments."
"It is especially hard when you are used to being really fit, really active, and you are burning a lot of calories, and you feel like you can eat whatever you want, just like when you were 15 or 16," Sam said. "Our metabolisms are not what they used to be when we were younger." Sam began taking a short walk during and after meals. She started walking 10,000 steps a day (a staple in the BREAKER program) that was separate from working out. Samantha credits walking and says that it helps her have a clear head, which helps her make better choices.
Health coach Ricki determined the amount of calories Sam needed to eat to support her active lifestyle (around 1,600 each day), and Sam began journaling her food with MyFitnessPal to keep her choices in check. Here's what an average day of meals looks like for Sam:
Breakfast: She used to load up on a big breakfast of nonfat yogurt, oatmeal, nuts, and a banana, but later Sam realized that while all those foods are healthy, it's simply too much. Now, Sam only eats the oatmeal and a small portion of nuts, which keeps her full until lunch.
Lunch: Sam makes her own salad at a local grocery store most days that's 40 percent protein (either salmon or grilled tofu), 40 percent greens, and 20 percent carbs (usually quinoa or sweet potato). She usually dresses her greens in lemon juice and olive oil.
Dinner: If Sam is cooking at home, it's typically salmon or chicken plus a cooked green like brussels sprouts or sautéed spinach. When she doesn't have time to grocery shop, she always has whole-wheat or lentil pasta on hand, so she can whip up dinner quickly. If she's out to a nice dinner, Sam orders fish with double veggies instead of a starch. However, if she has been "good and controlled all day," she isn't "crazy picky about dinner."
In her new program, Sam didn't cut out entire food groups or say goodbye to her favorite treats forever. "If I go to a party and all they have is pizza, I have one piece instead of three," Sam explained. "I am a partier, and if there is a pizza party, I am not going to be the girl who says, 'No, I don't eat that.' I had to learn if I am going to have the pizza, how am I going to correct it in other areas?"
For Sam and so many other women who want to see a change in their shape, it is all about finding this balance with food. As much as we wish an extra workout session would make up for a ton of indulgent choices, the truth remains: even when you're working out like a badass, abs are made in the kitchen.
The Best Met Gala View Isn't on the Red Carpet - It's on Instagram
While the annual star-studded Met Gala offers attendees a platform to flaunt some pretty memorable looks, the same can be said about Instagram. Celebrities and stylists often take to Instagram to share stunning shots long before and after the event. What's more, this year is all about Comme des Garcons and its avant-garde visionary, Rei Kawakubo. So, what does that mean exactly? Expect the unexpected. Look ahead for behind-the-scenes shots from the 2017 Met Gala.
Fyre Festival Organizers Release an Official Apology: "We Weren't Ready"
Fyre Festival was billed as "a once-in-a-lifetime musical experience on the Islands of the Exumas." While attendees may agree that it's certainly a "once-in-a-lifetime" experience, it's certainly not one they'd hope to repeat. The brainchild of rapper Ja Rule and entrepreneur Billy McFarland, Fyre was supposed to be a luxury experience that would bring A-list music acts to a small island in the Bahamas. Blink-182 was set to perform for the audience, each of whom paid between $4,000 and $20,000 just for the privilege of being there (airfare not included). Within minutes of arriving on the scene, crowds realized that they'd been duped. The festival is a total mess, so much so that the organizers immediately canceled it, allegedly "due to circumstances out of our control."
An official statement claims that "the physical infrastructure was not in place on time and we are unable to fulfill on that vision safely and enjoyably for our guests." Fyre has been postponed to a later date, as live updates from guests continued to flood Twitter over the weekend. While no one has been hurt, attendees are drawing comparisons to Lord of the Flies and The Hunger Games.
Update: The festival's organizers released an official apology on their website on Sunday, saying in part, "Billy McFarland and Ja Rule started a partnership over a mutual interest in technology, the ocean, and rap music. This unique combination of interests led them to the idea that, through their combined passions, they could create a new type of music festival and experience on a remote island. They simply weren't ready for what happened next, or how big this thing would get." They also stated that everyone that attended this year's festival is being given full refunds and will receive VIP tickets to next year's festival.
Ja Rule also commented on the situation via Twitter on Sunday. "Relieved to share that all guest[s] are safe, and have been sent the form to apply for a refund. Our deepest apologies... #fyrefestival." And Bella Hadid, who helped promote the festival but wasn't directly associated with it and didn't attend, apologized to her fans via Twitter. "I initially trusted this would be an amazing & memorable experience for all of us . . . I feel so sorry and badly because this is something I couldn't stand by."
Jeffree Star on Too Faced Controversy: "Get Ready For a Blood Bath"
Beauty fans are feeling compelled to choose sides after Jeffree Star went on a major rant against Too Faced co-founder Jerrod Blandino earlier this Spring. Star called out Blandino for allegedly shading Tarte with a now-deleted Instagram post that was captioned #ThereArentUnicornsInTheAmazon, a supposed dig against the brand's Amazonian clay collection and unicorn-inspired range of products. (You can catch up on all that controversy here.)
However, that one Instagram has spawned a great deal of trouble, resurrecting drama from late 2016. Star had hinted at some shady business between his former friend and fellow influencer Nikkie Tutorials and Too Faced, but had stopped himself before saying too much. Now, more details about the Nikkie Tutorials and Too Faced collab have surfaced.
Some may recall that many were disappointed by the quality of the shadow palette in her collection with Too Faced, but Nikkie never addressed this issue, which may have been due to non-disclosure agreements. YouTuber Sanders Kennedy revealed that Nikkie was allegedly paid $50,000 for the partnership - and restricted from teaming up with any other brands or sponsors during this time - but her products yielded almost $9,000,000 in sales. Star pointed this out in tweets.
While @jerrodblandino drives a Bentley and lives in a mansion, Nikkie has been suffering in silence. http://pic.twitter.com/YP2oPM97iA
- Jeffree Star (@JeffreeStar) April 28, 2017
Another interesting layer of this controversy is that Nikkie and Star aren't friends anymore. In an exclusive comment to Here For the Tea, Star said, "Her and I are no longer friends. You can confirm that. But I still respect her hustle and I watched first hand how they abused her and know how much she got paid. It's embarrassing. I think anyone else BUT me would be afraid to mention the contract. I did it to make a statement and so the audience as a taste as to WHY the palette was so sh*tty. She approved something and what was produced was not the same quality."
It is not confirmed as to why the two no longer speak. But Star's decisions to stand up for her means he may be facing legal action for his remarks. He alludes to this in his tweets, below.
This week I've spilled so much tea and truth... The beauty world is shook. I just got some disturbing news...
- Jeffree Star (@JeffreeStar) April 26, 2017
I'm going to let you guys know everything soon, once I find out the entire truth but I'm in SHOCK at what a brand is trying to do to me.
- Jeffree Star (@JeffreeStar) April 26, 2017
It's sad when huge corporations are scared because I'm exposing the truth. You can't silence me. You don't own me.
- Jeffree Star (@JeffreeStar) April 26, 2017
When other companies and brands want to try and fuck with my money and business behind the scenes.. Get ready for a blood bath.
- Jeffree Star (@JeffreeStar) April 26, 2017
It's hard to infer from these cryptic tweets, but remember: Too Faced was acquired by Estée Lauder in November 2016. Could Estée Lauder be the huge corporation Star is referring to? Star will not be stopped, though, as he went on to share that a Too Faced employee leaked the Nikkie Tutorials contract to him.
The truth always comes out.... A @toofaced employee leaked me the @nikkietutorials contract. I'll post it only if Nikkie says it's ok.
- Jeffree Star (@JeffreeStar) April 28, 2017
The Too Faced/Jeffree Star drama got even more complicated when Blandino's sister Lisa got involved. Star exposed this in a series of tweets, sharing that she bashed his customers.
And now we have @jerrodblandino's own sister threatening me and spewing hate to paying customers... WOW 😰 #disgusted http://pic.twitter.com/FJmtkiHyqO
- Jeffree Star (@JeffreeStar) April 28, 2017
I'm speaking the truth and she's scared. So she's saying I have a "mental problems" like that's something to joke about.
- Jeffree Star (@JeffreeStar) April 28, 2017
It's sad how she tries to say that sales matter and @toofaced is somehow "superior" - But they don't know my numbers so have a seat.
- Jeffree Star (@JeffreeStar) April 28, 2017
The fact that she said no one buys my makeup is the lamest most immature comment a 45 yr old can say to me. I don't even need clap back.
- Jeffree Star (@JeffreeStar) April 28, 2017
Thank you to everyone who's been by my side. These people are disgusting and I won't let them try and drag me down.
- Jeffree Star (@JeffreeStar) April 28, 2017
While Blandino has not remarked on his sister's actions, a quick visit to his Instagram reveals that comments have been disabled for many of his posts. Other posts are filled with commenters sharing their displeasure with the Too Faced co-founder, swearing off the brand and leaving snake emojis in their wake. POPSUGAR has reached out to Jeffree Star, Jerrod Blandino, and Nikkie Tutorials for comment. Stay tuned for more updates on this controversy as they become available.
Can You Believe Selena's "Como La Flor" Was Released 25 Years Ago?
Selena blessed the world with the release of her third studio album, Entre a Mi Mundo, exactly 25 years ago on May 6. The album was No. 1 on the US Billboard Regional Mexican Album list for 19 weeks and was (and still is) considered the "breakthrough" record of the Tejano singer's career.
The biggest single to come out of the album was of course "Como La Flor," a song still beloved by Selena's fans and often covered by stars, including Jackie Cruz and Fifth Harmony's Ally Brooke Hernandez.
The most beautiful rendition of the romantic song was probably the one Selena gave at her very last live concert at the Houston Astrodome in Texas on Feb. 26, 1995. To celebrate the gorgeous and timeless hit, press play above to watch that performance.
Blogger Emily Schuman Reveals Her Number 1 Tip For Closet Organization
After talking to blogger Emily Schuman about her new Cupcakes and Cashmere e-commerce site, a project she boldly took on in addition to running her namesake clothing label, it's clear she's an industry vet. Actually, "blogger" doesn't even begin to describe Emily's career. It's a word that doesn't lend her quite enough credit when you consider the entrepreneur she's become. So when we talked to Emily, we wanted to pick her brain about all of it - from the little things to what it's been like to watch the industry change over the past nine years.
Most importantly, we appreciated Emily's response to the Vogue blogger controversy, and her unwavering perspective that there's a place for everyone. True, the term "blogger" has many different definitions, but in a world where girls gain a tremendous amount of followers just by smiling for the camera and tagging their outfit credits on Instagram, Emily's carries a lot more weight. Scroll to take a few tips from the wise woman behind Cupcakes and Cashmere.
Fyre Festival Organizers Release an Official Apology: "We Weren't Ready"
Fyre Festival was billed as "a once-in-a-lifetime musical experience on the Islands of the Exumas." While attendees may agree that it's certainly a "once-in-a-lifetime" experience, it's certainly not one they'd hope to repeat. The brainchild of rapper Ja Rule and entrepreneur Billy McFarland, Fyre was supposed to be a luxury experience that would bring A-list music acts to a small island in the Bahamas. Blink-182 was set to perform for the audience, each of whom paid between $4,000 and $20,000 just for the privilege of being there (airfare not included). Within minutes of arriving on the scene, crowds realized that they'd been duped. The festival is a total mess, so much so that the organizers immediately canceled it, allegedly "due to circumstances out of our control."
An official statement claims that "the physical infrastructure was not in place on time and we are unable to fulfill on that vision safely and enjoyably for our guests." Fyre has been postponed to a later date, as live updates from guests continued to flood Twitter over the weekend. While no one has been hurt, attendees are drawing comparisons to Lord of the Flies and The Hunger Games.
Update: The festival's organizers released an official apology on their website on Sunday, saying in part, "Billy McFarland and Ja Rule started a partnership over a mutual interest in technology, the ocean, and rap music. This unique combination of interests led them to the idea that, through their combined passions, they could create a new type of music festival and experience on a remote island. They simply weren't ready for what happened next, or how big this thing would get." They also stated that everyone that attended this year's festival is being given full refunds and will receive VIP tickets to next year's festival.
Ja Rule also commented on the situation via Twitter on Sunday. "Relieved to share that all guest[s] are safe, and have been sent the form to apply for a refund. Our deepest apologies... #fyrefestival." And Bella Hadid, who helped promote the festival but wasn't directly associated with it and didn't attend, apologized to her fans via Twitter. "I initially trusted this would be an amazing & memorable experience for all of us . . . I feel so sorry and badly because this is something I couldn't stand by."
The Best Met Gala View Isn't on the Red Carpet - It's on Instagram
While the annual star-studded Met Gala offers attendees a platform to flaunt some pretty memorable looks, the same can be said about Instagram. Celebrities and stylists often take to Instagram to share stunning shots long before and after the event. What's more, this year is all about Comme des Garcons and its avant-garde visionary, Rei Kawakubo. So, what does that mean exactly? Expect the unexpected. Look ahead for behind-the-scenes shots from the 2017 Met Gala.
5 Products Unicorn-Lovers Need in Their Lives
Sorry, Ariel, but unicorns are quickly taking the place of mermaids these days. It seems that everything mystical has taken over the beauty industry, with unicorns becoming the latest craze. The timing couldn't be better, either, especially now that festival season is in full swing.
Whether you want to go full unicorn with holographic lip toppers or just want a magical glow, we found five gorgeous beauty products at Ulta Beauty to help you create a legendary makeup look. Watch the video to see them all in action, and let us know your favorites in the comments below.
Products included:
Urban Decay Special Effects Liquid Lip Water Resistant Top Coats, $18
Lorac I Love Brunch Light Source Illuminating Highlighter in Limelight, $23
Tarte Make Believe in Yourself Eye and Cheek Palette, $40
Manic Panic Amplified Semi-Permanent Hair Color, $18
Julep Holographic Nail Polish in Angie and Brandy, $14 each
These Are 23 of the Hottest Beauty Launches For May 2017
As you shop for Mother's Day gifts this month, make sure to pick up some beauty swag for yourself. May is bringing us tons of fantastic hair care, skin care, and makeup launches - from a sunscreen mousse to an edgy perfume (that comes in a skull-embossed case) and an ice-cream-inspired lip gloss. Keep reading to see which items POPSUGAR editors are loving and using right now.
A Dedicated Teacher Worked on Lessons Plans Just 1 Hour Before Giving Birth
No, she is not doing her taxes. Those papers would be her lesson plans her husband is about to go drop off with her sub...
Posted by Rooted in Love Photography on Wednesday, April 26, 2017
In Fort Worth, TX, a teacher proved both her dedication to the job and her love for her students by putting together lesson plans from the delivery room. Rooted in Love Photography captured the expecting mother taking care of some work from her hospital bed.
On Facebook, the photographer explained the circumstances surrounding the impressive shot. "No, she is not doing her taxes. Those papers would be her lesson plans her husband is about to go drop off with her sub in the parking lot," the photographer explained, adding: "Even in labor, they care. No lie, she gave birth less than an hour later."
The astounding image has since amassed over 7,000 shares and 20,000 reactions on Facebook. What's more, it's inspiring others to give teachers the praise they deserve. On the flip side, it's encouraging other teachers to share their stories. In the comments, one teacher wrote: "I once went dumpster diving for a missing retainer a student accidentally threw away. You would be amazed at what a teacher will do for her students!"
6 Spa Facials That Women of Color Should Try For Glowing Skin
There are few beauty experiences more pampering than a luxurious facial. But for women of color, that moment of relaxation can morph into a nightmare pretty quickly if your face is left in the wrong hands. At times, melanin-rich skin can be a breeding ground for issues like hyperpigmentation, acne, and dryness, leading to an unflattering gray cast.
If you bundle these issues with a facialist who isn't well-versed in dark skin, you'll no doubt regret booking that spa appointment in the first place. The last thing you need is scarring after a chemical peel gone wrong or a mask that aggravates acne you've spent too many sleepless nights trying to heal.
We consulted with some of our favorite spas to discover the best facials to keep darker skin looking fab. Read on for the details, and cheers to glowing skin!
1. Bliss Spa: No 'Zit' Sherlock Facial
The facial: On deep complexions, acne can leave behind dark spots that can take forever to fade. Bliss Spa's No 'Zit' Sherlock treatment (75 mins, $175) includes extractions as well as a gel-based peel with a blend of salicylic and mandelic acids that help reduce hyperpigmentation caused by acne and sun damage. The peel also works to combat bacteria linked to acne. The treatment wraps with a soothing seaweed mask, which tightens pores and leaves skin feeling smooth.
Why it works for dark skin: This facial is a good option for those with oily and acne-prone skin, as the salicylic and mandelic acids help control sebum production. According to Bliss Spa technician Nandi Wagner, there's another major benefit for women of color. "Some alpha hydroxy acids, like glycolic and lactic acids, have been known to irritate the skin and can lead to an increase in pigmentation issues for women of color," Wagner notes. "The combination of salicylic and mandelic acids is safer to use for deeper skin tones because they provide the exfoliation of other AHAs without the irritation."
2. Clarins: Even Skin Perfector Facial
The facial: Clarins stresses that the key to treating discoloration is choosing a treatment that keeps the overall tone of your skin intact. The Even Skin Perfector facial (50 mins, $75; 80 mins, $95) does just that with powerful acerola extract, a wild cherry from South America that's chock-full of vitamin C.
Why it works for dark skin: "Acerola extract targets pigmentation directly by slowing down the production of melanin," says Milana Knowles, senior director of spa development at Clarins. This is an especially good treatment to try after excessive sun exposure, as UV rays stimulate the production of dark spots. "Acerola extract reduces overproduction and subsequently restores a normal level of melanin synthesis," she says.
3. Exhale: Power Facial
The facial: Whether you're struggling with signs of aging, acne, or sun damage, Exhale's Power Facial (60 mins, $245) can meet your needs with its advanced peel and innovative Coolbeam laser. You'll start with an exfoliating mask to revive dull, dehydrated skin, followed by extractions to unclog pores and detoxification. To close, the esthetician treats skin with either Coolbeam or ultrasonic therapies.
Why it works for dark skin: The Power Facial is a great choice for women of color who tend to suffer from dry skin. The facial's Z Peel contains Mucor Miehei Japanese mushroom enzymes that are known to plump, brighten, and soften fine lines. "The Z Peel mimics the skin's own cell turnover process, making it both gentle and effective," says Laura Benge, Exhale's national spa director.
4. Joanna Vargas: Triple Crown Facial
The facial: There's a reason why celebrities love Joanna Vargas's Triple Crown facial (60 mins, $250; $550 with Joanna). The mix of exfoliation and soothing oxygen therapy removes impurities and dead cells and allows products to penetrate more deeply into the skin. The gentle exfoliation also helps to even out the skin tone, which is helpful for women of color suffering from hyperpigmentation. Bonus: the use of oxygen is anti-inflammatory and boosts collagen production.
Why it works for dark skin: "As a Latin woman, I pride myself on understanding skin of all tones," says Joanna Vargas, celebrity facialist and founder of Joanna Vargas Salon and Skin Care Collection. "The Triple Crown Facial works great for women of color in particular because it is not product-heavy. Many women of color have extremely sensitive skin and any type of inflammation in the skin could result in long-lasting discoloration."
5. LaVida Massage: Ultrasonic Facial
The facial: Acne-prone skin in particular is the perfect candidate for a treatment involving a deep cleaning method. With the Ultrasonic Facial (60 mins, $85 for members, $115 for non-members), a light paddle is used to deliver a low-frequency ultrasonic vibration that lifts dirt from the face and loosens dead skin cells. The machine flushes the skin with water to remove dirt from pores, and steam might be added for more intense results. The treatment includes Dermalogica products like a brightening serum and a mask to revitalize the skin.
Why it works for dark skin: The Ultrasonic Facial involves a thorough cleaning and is also customizable, making it a great option for women of color with specific skin concerns ranging from acne to dullness. And there's one other benefit: anti-aging effects. "The Ultrasonic Facial Treatment is recommended for those seeking anti-aging benefits because of the fantastic lifting properties associated with the method," says Joy LaPointe, the skin therapist and manager at LaVida Massage's location in Brighton, Michigan.
LaPointe recommends clients with hyperpigmentation follow up the Ultrasonic Facial with Dermalogica's PowerBright TRx Treatment Kit ($40), featuring the C-12 Pure Bright Serum for hyperpigmentation, Pure Light (SPF50), and Pure Night, a nourishing overnight treatment moisturizer to maintain luminous results.
6. Red Door Spa: Skin Illuminating Advanced Brightening Facial
The facial: Elizabeth Arden's Skin Illuminating Advanced Brightening Facial (65 mins, $145-$160 based on location) is the answer for treating hyperpigmentation and dry skin.
Why it works for dark skin: It addresses dark spots, uneven skin tone, and complexions lacking the healthy glow we all strive for. A mix of vitamins A, B3, and C; licorice extract; and exfoliants, including melting microbeads and natural enzymes, work to target excess melanin production in the skin to boost brightness and promote hydration. The facial's use of salicylic acid "delivers anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties to heal and reduce inflammation from breakouts and balance excess oil production," says Ann Balaguera, Elizabeth Arden's national director of esthetics. Because of this, women of color with any scarring or discoloration issues would find this facial especially helpful. For optimal results, a series of six to eight treatments is recommended.
Can You Believe Selena's "Como La Flor" Was Released 25 Years Ago?
Selena blessed the world with the release of her third studio album, Entre a Mi Mundo, exactly 25 years ago on May 6. The album was No. 1 on the US Billboard Regional Mexican Album list for 19 weeks and was (and still is) considered the "breakthrough" record of the Tejano singer's career.
The biggest single to come out of the album was of course "Como La Flor," a song still beloved by Selena's fans and often covered by stars, including Jackie Cruz and Fifth Harmony's Ally Brooke Hernandez.
The most beautiful rendition of the romantic song was probably the one Selena gave at her very last live concert at the Houston Astrodome in Texas on Feb. 26, 1995. To celebrate the gorgeous and timeless hit, press play above to watch that performance.
Jeffree Star on Too Faced Controversy: "Get Ready For a Blood Bath"
Beauty fans are feeling compelled to choose sides after Jeffree Star went on a major rant against Too Faced co-founder Jerrod Blandino earlier this Spring. Star called out Blandino for allegedly shading Tarte with a now-deleted Instagram post that was captioned #ThereArentUnicornsInTheAmazon, a supposed dig against the brand's Amazonian clay collection and unicorn-inspired range of products. (You can catch up on all that controversy here.)
However, that one Instagram has spawned a great deal of trouble, resurrecting drama from late 2016. Star had hinted at some shady business between his former friend and fellow influencer Nikkie Tutorials and Too Faced, but had stopped himself before saying too much. Now, more details about the Nikkie Tutorials and Too Faced collab have surfaced.
Some may recall that many were disappointed by the quality of the shadow palette in her collection with Too Faced, but Nikkie never addressed this issue, which may have been due to non-disclosure agreements. YouTuber Sanders Kennedy revealed that Nikkie was allegedly paid $50,000 for the partnership - and restricted from teaming up with any other brands or sponsors during this time - but her products yielded almost $9,000,000 in sales. Star pointed this out in tweets.
While @jerrodblandino drives a Bentley and lives in a mansion, Nikkie has been suffering in silence. http://pic.twitter.com/YP2oPM97iA
- Jeffree Star (@JeffreeStar) April 28, 2017
Another interesting layer of this controversy is that Nikkie and Star aren't friends anymore. In an exclusive comment to Here For the Tea, Star said, "Her and I are no longer friends. You can confirm that. But I still respect her hustle and I watched first hand how they abused her and know how much she got paid. It's embarrassing. I think anyone else BUT me would be afraid to mention the contract. I did it to make a statement and so the audience as a taste as to WHY the palette was so sh*tty. She approved something and what was produced was not the same quality."
It is not confirmed as to why the two no longer speak. But Star's decisions to stand up for her means he may be facing legal action for his remarks. He alludes to this in his tweets, below.
This week I've spilled so much tea and truth... The beauty world is shook. I just got some disturbing news...
- Jeffree Star (@JeffreeStar) April 26, 2017
I'm going to let you guys know everything soon, once I find out the entire truth but I'm in SHOCK at what a brand is trying to do to me.
- Jeffree Star (@JeffreeStar) April 26, 2017
It's sad when huge corporations are scared because I'm exposing the truth. You can't silence me. You don't own me.
- Jeffree Star (@JeffreeStar) April 26, 2017
When other companies and brands want to try and fuck with my money and business behind the scenes.. Get ready for a blood bath.
- Jeffree Star (@JeffreeStar) April 26, 2017
It's hard to infer from these cryptic tweets, but remember: Too Faced was acquired by Estée Lauder in November 2016. Could Estée Lauder be the huge corporation Star is referring to? Star will not be stopped, though, as he went on to share that a Too Faced employee leaked the Nikkie Tutorials contract to him.
The truth always comes out.... A @toofaced employee leaked me the @nikkietutorials contract. I'll post it only if Nikkie says it's ok.
- Jeffree Star (@JeffreeStar) April 28, 2017
The Too Faced/Jeffree Star drama got even more complicated when Blandino's sister Lisa got involved. Star exposed this in a series of tweets, sharing that she bashed his customers.
And now we have @jerrodblandino's own sister threatening me and spewing hate to paying customers... WOW 😰 #disgusted http://pic.twitter.com/FJmtkiHyqO
- Jeffree Star (@JeffreeStar) April 28, 2017
I'm speaking the truth and she's scared. So she's saying I have a "mental problems" like that's something to joke about.
- Jeffree Star (@JeffreeStar) April 28, 2017
It's sad how she tries to say that sales matter and @toofaced is somehow "superior" - But they don't know my numbers so have a seat.
- Jeffree Star (@JeffreeStar) April 28, 2017
The fact that she said no one buys my makeup is the lamest most immature comment a 45 yr old can say to me. I don't even need clap back.
- Jeffree Star (@JeffreeStar) April 28, 2017
Thank you to everyone who's been by my side. These people are disgusting and I won't let them try and drag me down.
- Jeffree Star (@JeffreeStar) April 28, 2017
While Blandino has not remarked on his sister's actions, a quick visit to his Instagram reveals that comments have been disabled for many of his posts. Other posts are filled with commenters sharing their displeasure with the Too Faced co-founder, swearing off the brand and leaving snake emojis in their wake. POPSUGAR has reached out to Jeffree Star, Jerrod Blandino, and Nikkie Tutorials for comment. Stay tuned for more updates on this controversy as they become available.
Blogger Emily Schuman Reveals Her Number 1 Tip For Closet Organization
After talking to blogger Emily Schuman about her new Cupcakes and Cashmere e-commerce site, a project she boldly took on in addition to running her namesake clothing label, it's clear she's an industry vet. Actually, "blogger" doesn't even begin to describe Emily's career. It's a word that doesn't lend her quite enough credit when you consider the entrepreneur she's become. So when we talked to Emily, we wanted to pick her brain about all of it - from the little things to what it's been like to watch the industry change over the past nine years.
Most importantly, we appreciated Emily's response to the Vogue blogger controversy, and her unwavering perspective that there's a place for everyone. True, the term "blogger" has many different definitions, but in a world where girls gain a tremendous amount of followers just by smiling for the camera and tagging their outfit credits on Instagram, Emily's carries a lot more weight. Scroll to take a few tips from the wise woman behind Cupcakes and Cashmere.
How 1 Photographer Captures All the Big Moments (and Stays Sane) at the Met Gala
The Met Gala has rightfully earned its place as the Super Bowl of the fashion world. While the comparison is fair, given the high stakes and and the all-star players, nothing really can compare to the glitz, the glamour, and well, the chaos. The industry's biggest event is jam-packed with stars, gowns, jaw-dropping details, and can't-miss moments - and if you're a photographer on the ground, it's your job to capture it all. Talk about pressure.
Enter Shutterstock photographer Stephen Lovekin, who's documented the whole thing for seasons. Ahead of the big night, Stephen gave us an inside look on what goes into prepping for the event, the red carpet madness that ensues, and his tricks to getting the perfect shot - and staying sane (hint: meditation is involved). Read on as he takes us behind the scenes.
Turn Your Office Into a Millennial Pink Haven With These 15 Desk Accessories
Oh, millennial pink, how I love you so. Why is the blush shade so mesmerizing? Apparently there are a lot of reasons our generation is so obsessed, but for right now I'm gonna go with the fact that it's simply a pretty hue. Make your desk a cheerful place by getting some cute office accessories in millennial pink. You'll be glad you did.
A Dedicated Teacher Worked on Lessons Plans Just 1 Hour Before Giving Birth
No, she is not doing her taxes. Those papers would be her lesson plans her husband is about to go drop off with her sub...
Posted by Rooted in Love Photography on Wednesday, April 26, 2017
In Fort Worth, TX, a teacher proved both her dedication to the job and her love for her students by putting together lesson plans from the delivery room. Rooted in Love Photography captured the expecting mother taking care of some work from her hospital bed.
On Facebook, the photographer explained the circumstances surrounding the impressive shot. "No, she is not doing her taxes. Those papers would be her lesson plans her husband is about to go drop off with her sub in the parking lot," the photographer explained, adding: "Even in labor, they care. No lie, she gave birth less than an hour later."
The astounding image has since amassed over 7,000 shares and 20,000 reactions on Facebook. What's more, it's inspiring others to give teachers the praise they deserve. On the flip side, it's encouraging other teachers to share their stories. In the comments, one teacher wrote: "I once went dumpster diving for a missing retainer a student accidentally threw away. You would be amazed at what a teacher will do for her students!"
Nancy Pelosi: "I Never Thought I'd Pray For the Day" Bush Was President
.@NancyPelosi to @jonkarl: "I never thought I'd pray for the day" when George W. Bush was president again https://t.co/F3g5VI54Ob #ThisWeek http://pic.twitter.com/0jjtChRh3w
- This Week (@ThisWeekABC) April 30, 2017
House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi had a slip of the tongue when she accidentally referred to President Donald Trump as former President George W. Bush during an interview on ABC's The Week. Pelosi sat down with Jonathan Karl to discuss President Trump's first 100 days in office and how the Democratic party could work with him, but it wasn't until she mixed the names up that the interview really escalated.
"Winning means winning for the American people, that either we win or whoever wins understands the priorities of the American people," she said. "And they are not with President Bush." Um. . .
"Excuse me!" she said, after catching her mistake. "I'm so sorry, President Bush. I never thought I'd pray for the day that you were president again."
Liberals could not stand President Bush - and he frequently pops up on lists of our nation's worst-ever presidents - but Pelosi seems to be saying that even Bush's most dismal approval ratings are nothing compared to the way President Trump is viewed by the Democratic leaders and left-leaning citizens.
This isn't the first time that liberals have spoken out about the ironic comparison between Trump and Bush. During Samantha Bee's Not the White House Correspondents' Dinner, Will Ferrell brought back his notorious George W. Bush impression to laugh about the times when he "was considered the worst president of all time."
"I needed eight years, a catastrophic flood, a war built on a lie, and an economic disaster," Ferrell said as Bush. "The new guy only needed 100 days. He is widely considered the worst president of all time. I came in second. I'm fine with that. No one remembers second place."
23 GIFs of Jensen Ackles and Jared Padalecki That Will Make You Supernaturally Happy
Bromances in Hollywood are a beautiful thing. While some are more unexpected (hello, Ryan Gosling and Jon Hamm), others have remained constant throughout the ever-changing tide of show business. If you didn't already guess, we're talking about Jensen Ackles and Jared Padalecki. It all began way back in the year 2005 when their show, Supernatural, first premiered. And in the almost 12 years since then, the two have managed to build a bond (and fan base) most people can only wish for. Whether they're goofing off on set or just hanging out in real life, they always manage to have a good time. Now, if Jake Gyllenhaal and Ryan Reynolds can keep their bromance up for as many years as Jensen and Jared have, we'd be all set.
Nancy Pelosi: "I Never Thought I'd Pray For the Day" Bush Was President
.@NancyPelosi to @jonkarl: "I never thought I'd pray for the day" when George W. Bush was president again https://t.co/F3g5VI54Ob #ThisWeek http://pic.twitter.com/0jjtChRh3w
- This Week (@ThisWeekABC) April 30, 2017
House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi had a slip of the tongue when she accidentally referred to President Donald Trump as former President George W. Bush during an interview on ABC's The Week. Pelosi sat down with Jonathan Karl to discuss President Trump's first 100 days in office and how the Democratic party could work with him, but it wasn't until she mixed the names up that the interview really escalated.
"Winning means winning for the American people, that either we win or whoever wins understands the priorities of the American people," she said. "And they are not with President Bush." Um. . .
"Excuse me!" she said, after catching her mistake. "I'm so sorry, President Bush. I never thought I'd pray for the day that you were president again."
Liberals could not stand President Bush - and he frequently pops up on lists of our nation's worst-ever presidents - but Pelosi seems to be saying that even Bush's most dismal approval ratings are nothing compared to the way President Trump is viewed by the Democratic leaders and left-leaning citizens.
This isn't the first time that liberals have spoken out about the ironic comparison between Trump and Bush. During Samantha Bee's Not the White House Correspondents' Dinner, Will Ferrell brought back his notorious George W. Bush impression to laugh about the times when he "was considered the worst president of all time."
"I needed eight years, a catastrophic flood, a war built on a lie, and an economic disaster," Ferrell said as Bush. "The new guy only needed 100 days. He is widely considered the worst president of all time. I came in second. I'm fine with that. No one remembers second place."
23 GIFs of Jensen Ackles and Jared Padalecki That Will Make You Supernaturally Happy
Bromances in Hollywood are a beautiful thing. While some are more unexpected (hello, Ryan Gosling and Jon Hamm), others have remained constant throughout the ever-changing tide of show business. If you didn't already guess, we're talking about Jensen Ackles and Jared Padalecki. It all began way back in the year 2005 when their show, Supernatural, first premiered. And in the almost 12 years since then, the two have managed to build a bond (and fan base) most people can only wish for. Whether they're goofing off on set or just hanging out in real life, they always manage to have a good time. Now, if Jake Gyllenhaal and Ryan Reynolds can keep their bromance up for as many years as Jensen and Jared have, we'd be all set.
Exclusive: The Deck of Scarlet x BabsBeauty Makeup Palette Is Here
Deck of Scarlet, the subscription makeup palette service, has just revealed its latest collaborator: BabsBeauty. The YouTube beauty sensation (aka Stephanie Stipes) will release her Deck of Scarlet x BabsBeauty onto the masses on May 1. The palette contains seven highly pigmented shades and includes three eye shadows, two lip shades, a blush, a highlighter, and a lip chubby stick.
The stand-out shade in this collection is a saturated royal purple eye shadow called "Sophia." The bright color is ideal for creating bold eye looks with a Summer twist. Using it as an eyeliner or to create a smokey eye will elevate your makeup to a warm-weather appropriate look during months when black can look too harsh.
The shades have a sexy feel to them, which should be no surprise for fans of the BabsBeauty YouTube channel, as she tends to prefer a glamorous full face of makeup. The sleek black packaging says "hot" on the front in bold white letters, which is exactly how you'll feel rocking this palette.
To get your perfectly manicured hands on this product, you need to subscribe to Deck of Scarlet. The subscription service sends customers a makeup palette every other month for $30. If you don't like a month's selection, you can skip that month and only pay for the ones you want to own. The collections are always limited edition and cruelty free, making them a special addition to your beauty collection.
Read on to see all of the shades from this steamy palette.
Mom’s Universal Message After Daughter Is Almost Killed by a Kitchen Knife
Moms are used to doing a million things with their kids in tow. From folding laundry while their baby plays on the bed to cooking dinner while toddlers sit underfoot, we manage and make do.
But one of those typical multi-tasking moments turned terrifying for Australian mom of two Bec Crombie, who blogged about how she "almost killed [her] daughter" that day:
It was like any other regular afternoon of ours, which includes me in the kitchen prepping dinner with Nylah playing with cups and pots at my feet. I had peeled and chopped the potatoes, placing them in the pot and the knife back on the board, when I took one step to the left to remove the husk from the corn. As quickly as I had briefly stepped away, Nylah had stood up and grabbed the board from the bench. Which resulted in a 20-cm knife falling and narrowly missing stabbing her in the face.
Thankfully, everyone was OK and Nylah "wasn't even left with a scratch." Still, it left Bec in tears, thinking about what could have happened. Up until that day, Bec wrote, her daughter had never tried to grab the bench. "It shocked me that she could even reach."
Instead of keeping the near accident a secret, however, she felt compelled to share her story and implore parents to remain especially vigilant in not just the bathtub, pools, and parking lots – where we know things can happen in the blink of an eye – but also in the kitchen.
"I've copped so much sh*t in the past for being a helicopter parent, or one that is overly cautious," she wrote. "Truth is, it can happen to you. They are labeled 'accidents' for a reason. They are purely accidental, freak occurrences. Children are determined, inquisitive, and lightning-speed escape artists. Children are so quick, and we can really never be too careful."
Jamie Lynn Spears Channels Her Big Sis For a Toxic Britney Spears Medley
Britney Spears got a sweet surprise when she was awarded with the first-ever Icon Award at the Radio Disney Music Awards on Saturday. During a medley of her greatest hits, her little sister Jamie Lynn made a special appearance on stage to perform "Till the World Ends," and it's making us see double. Clad in a black jumpsuit and long blonde hair, the former Nickelodeon star was a complete dead-ringer for her big sis, who starred on Disney's Mickey Mouse Club 23 years ago, as she sang the pop tune. And she wasn't the only starlet to honor the pop star. The show's hosts, Kelsea Ballerini and Sofia Carson, were joined by Hailee Steinfeld to sing hits like "Oops! . . . I Did It Again," ". . . Baby One More Time," and "Circus" while dressed in classic Britney outfits. See all the clips below.
Mom’s Universal Message After Daughter Is Almost Killed by a Kitchen Knife
Moms are used to doing a million things with their kids in tow. From folding laundry while their baby plays on the bed to cooking dinner while toddlers sit underfoot, we manage and make do.
But one of those typical multi-tasking moments turned terrifying for Australian mom of two Bec Crombie, who blogged about how she "almost killed [her] daughter" that day:
It was like any other regular afternoon of ours, which includes me in the kitchen prepping dinner with Nylah playing with cups and pots at my feet. I had peeled and chopped the potatoes, placing them in the pot and the knife back on the board, when I took one step to the left to remove the husk from the corn. As quickly as I had briefly stepped away, Nylah had stood up and grabbed the board from the bench. Which resulted in a 20-cm knife falling and narrowly missing stabbing her in the face.
Thankfully, everyone was OK and Nylah "wasn't even left with a scratch." Still, it left Bec in tears, thinking about what could have happened. Up until that day, Bec wrote, her daughter had never tried to grab the bench. "It shocked me that she could even reach."
Instead of keeping the near accident a secret, however, she felt compelled to share her story and implore parents to remain especially vigilant in not just the bathtub, pools, and parking lots – where we know things can happen in the blink of an eye – but also in the kitchen.
"I've copped so much sh*t in the past for being a helicopter parent, or one that is overly cautious," she wrote. "Truth is, it can happen to you. They are labeled 'accidents' for a reason. They are purely accidental, freak occurrences. Children are determined, inquisitive, and lightning-speed escape artists. Children are so quick, and we can really never be too careful."
Your Met Gala Horoscope Determines What You'd Wear to the Ball
We don't know if you trust your horoscope, but we are familiar with your zodiac sign, along with its associated power colors and personality traits. From that, along with our extensive knowledge about the Met Gala and our memory of past looks, we're able to connect you with just the right dress. Yes, if you received a golden ticket from the one and only Anna Wintour, we suggest you start here with the look we've matched to your sign. Scroll to check out our well-founded options.
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