<![CDATA[ Marie Claire ]]> https://www.marieclaire.com Wed, 27 Mar 2024 00:58:54 +0000 en <![CDATA[ The Best Hair Straighteners Add Instant Shine to Your Style ]]> It took over a decade, but I finally discovered the secret to perfectly sleek, frizz-free hair. Hair serums, the shine-boosting shampoos and conditioners, and blowout balms are helpful, but having one of the best hair straighteners in my arsenal is the true key. Thankfully, flat iron tech has come a long way since the early 2000s, when fried and fringed hair was (somehow) in vogue. Now, hot tools are developed to boost shine and preserve hair health. "Early flat irons had metal plates and required direct, often uneven heat, increasing the risk of damage," explains Syrenthia Quiñones, a Licensed Salon Professional and Senior Manager of Sales & Education at Mane. "Modern flat irons feature ceramic, tourmaline, or titanium plates for even heat distribution and less damage."

Often, hair straighteners come with adjustable temperature controls and digital displays to reduce overheating and provide smoother, shinier hair with less frizz. Ahead, hair professionals and editors share their picks for the best hair straighteners, including cordless and travel options.

What to Look For in a Hair Straightener

  • Material

The damage-inducing metal plates from the early aughts are still on the market, so do your research and know what material you're applying to your precious locks. "Make sure to invest in a high-quality hair straightener with ceramic or tourmaline plates (I prefer ceramic), as they distribute heat more evenly and cause less damage compared to metal plates," advises Ashanti Lation, a celebrity hairstylist who's clients include Lizzo and Normani.

  • Heat

If you can't handle the heat...you probably shouldn't have your hair straightener turned up that high. "Most hair straighteners come with adjustable heat settings for a reason," adds Lation. "You should be using a temperature that is conducive to the thickness and health of your hair. Using a heat setting that your hair can’t handle can damage your hair tremendously."

  • Cords

are cordless, making it easy These days, parking in front of a mirror with an accessible outlet isn't a necessity. Some tools come cordless, making it easy for you to straighten your hair on the go.

The Best Hair Straighteners

Also Recommended

How to Keep Hair Healthy With a Straightening Iron

As an expert in and benefactor of healthy hair, Lation constantly emphasizes the importance of protecting your hair, especially if you regularly use flat irons or any heat. "Remember, maintaining healthy, straightened hair is about finding a balance between styling and caring for your hair," he shares. Below, a few of her tips to keep your hair happy while enjoying a hair straightener.

Use a Heat Protectant

A heat protectant spray or serum is a must-have before using any heat styling tool. Products like VIP Luxury Hair Care's Silk Shot Serum & Spray Set (Lation's favorite) or Bumble and Bumble Hairdresser’s Invisible Oil Heat & UV Protective Primer (Marie Claire's overall best heat protectant of 2024) will help reduce damage by creating a barrier between your hair and the heat.

Adjust the Heat Setting

Get clued in on what setting your hair likes to be straightened at—and don't go any higher. "On fine hair, keep the temperature low. Thick hair you can increase the temperature," shares Hurtado.

To get specific, Amika recommends below 360 degrees Fahrenheit for fine or thin hair, 360 to 380 degrees for normal, medium, or wavy hair, and 380 to 450 degrees for thick, coarse, or curly hair.

Limit Heat Exposure

Taking a break between hair straightening sessions will allow your hair to recover from the heat trauma, thereby maintaining its natural moisture and elasticity.

Proper Technique

Remember, the damage occurs during the straightening process, so be careful. "Section your hair and use smooth, even strokes when straightening," shares Lation. "Avoid going over the same section of hair repeatedly, as this can cause unnecessary damage."

Demi Moore on the red carpet.

If you need straight hair inspiration, look no further than Demi Moore's long, sleek style. (Image credit: Getty Images)

How to Use a Hair Straightener

You must apply a heat protectant before straightening your hair. Once that's done, you can divide your hair into smaller sections for more manageable styling. "For each section, clamp the flat iron close to the roots, gently tap the iron two to three times to achieve added smoothness and control at the root, and then slowly slide it down towards the ends," explains Quiñones. "Repeat this process for each section until you achieve the desired style."

The stylist also suggests using smaller sections if you want better control. For a smooth finish, pair your flat iron with a fine-toothed comb, running the comb through each section as you work.

Should I Use a Straightening Iron?

Everyone can use a straightening iron, but some people should proceed with extra caution. Individuals with scalp conditions are strongly encouraged to consult their dermatologist before picking up a hair straightener. "Pregnant women should also speak with their healthcare provider due to potential changes in hair texture and susceptibility to heat damage during pregnancy," adds Quiñones.

Meet the Experts

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https://www.marieclaire.com/beauty/best-hair-straighteners/ oCyBiZYMNQPM9xDAFPGWvj Tue, 26 Mar 2024 21:20:48 +0000
<![CDATA[ 32 Beauty Products That Are Just So Good ]]>

Spring is here, and we're going to help you celebrate the season's start with fresh picks to amp up your beauty routine. We're talking brag-worthy finds you can trust and afford including skincare and bodycare favorites, dreamy makeup, and hair must-haves that you won't believe are from Walmart. These editor-approved picks will put a spring in your step and get you primed and ready to take on the season ahead.

Prices subject to change.

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https://www.marieclaire.com/glow-up-beauty-event-walmart/ F4vrK42yrC6Lzp5dj6BAn5 Tue, 26 Mar 2024 21:14:35 +0000
<![CDATA[ Liquid Foundations That Feel Like Your Skin, But Better ]]> The best foundations come in many forms, from powder foundations to full-coverage foundations to foundations made for acne-prone skin. As a beauty writer, I've tried scores of options, all of which promise to make skin appear more even, but one facet of the foundation world will always have my heart: liquid foundation. It's a natural-looking, easy-to-apply formulation that makes layering makeup a breeze.

"A liquid foundation has more versatility," agrees celebrity makeup artist Brandy Allen. "It is suitable for all skin types, depending on its formula. Liquid foundation tends to mimic skin texture very well with its blendability." She adds that liquid foundations come in a range of formulations and thickness levels, so they're great for dry, normal, and combination skin. Liquid formulas, she concludes, "cater to each skin type, including oily skin"—great news for those who struggle with acne.

Thus, I've worked with Allen and my fellow editors to round up our favorite liquid foundations of all time, each withstood sun, sweat, and hours upon hours of wear. 

What to Look For In a Liquid Foundation

As with all face makeup, the best liquid foundation for you depends on your skin needs and personal preferences, according to Allen.

Skin Type: Allen says, "Water-based or silicone-based foundations are perfect for those with oily skin. Silicone helps blur and smooth imperfections to create a smoother surface. I also prefer a water-based foundation on oily skin because it's gentle and can dry down to a matte finish. It isn't packed with oils, so it dries and sets then can be paired with a setting powder. Niacinamide regulates oil while retaining moisture."

She advises consumers with combination skin to look for similar ingredients but pay attention to the "dominating skin texture (oily or dry)" when looking for the best formula for the moment.

Meanwhile, for dry skin, she says, "Water-, oil-, or serum-based foundations are ideal for their hydrating benefits. These foundations often contain minerals and natural oils for a healthy glow and dewy finish." When it comes to specific ingredients, she says, "hyaluronic acid offers tons of hydration with a smoother appearance."

Megan markle

Meghan Markle is known to wear liquid foundation to achieve a velvety natural skin-like finish. (Image credit: Archives)

Coverage: Coverage level refers to the overall opacity of your foundation. For instance, a full-coverage foundation will be thicker and more pigmented and will, therefore, effectively cover up acne, hyperpigmentation, redness, and freckles. On the other hand, lightweight coverage is much thinner and will make skin appear more even while allowing its natural details to shine through. Medium coverage falls somewhere in between, masking subtle flaws but failing to hide darker spots like acne marks. The best coverage for you is, of course, a matter of personal preference and needs, but bear in mind that the more full-coverage the formula, the heavier it will feel on your skin.

Finish: The finish of your liquid foundation dictates your overall makeup vibe. A glowy finish, for instance, lends itself to the "clean girl aesthetic," while a matte finish "has a powder-like finish with no shine," according to Allen. This might be best if you're planning on taking lots of pictures. Finally, she says, "a satin finish is the most natural, skin-like texture."

The Best Way to Apply Liquid Foundation

I've been applying foundation for years during clear-skin eras and decidedly less-than-clear skin. Based on that experience, I recommend starting with thin dots of foundation around the face, with extra attention to areas with flaws or pigmentation you'd like to cover up. Many people like spreading the foundation with their fingers or a brush, but I prefer a makeup sponge (Beautyblenders are my favorite). To avoid cakiness, start with a thin layer and add more if needed. 

The Best Liquid Foundations

Also Recommended

Meet the Expert

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https://www.marieclaire.com/beauty/best-liquid-foundations/ 2HmCvLMHPAZvraLcNxG2X9 Mon, 25 Mar 2024 13:56:09 +0000
<![CDATA[ These 11 Best Self-Tanners for Pale Skin Will Finally Cure Your Glow Woes ]]> As Nicole Polizzi, aka Snooki, once said, "People go tanning because they like to feel tan." If I may, I'd like to make a slight adjustment to that statement: people self-tan because they like to feel tan...and minimize their risk of skin cancer. If this is true, what better reason to discover the best self-tanners for pale skin?

"There is no excuse to get tan from the sun. It’s too dangerous," says celebrity makeup artist Sarah Egan. In case you haven't heard—and I really hope you have!—tanning outdoors or in a tanning bed exposes your skin to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which increases your risk of developing skin cancer. "Tanning also accelerates the rate at which your skin ages, which means an earlier onset of fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots. Tanning can lead to sunburns, and indoor tanning beds can put skin at risk of infections," adds Dr. Brendan Camp, a double board-certified dermatologist from MDCS Dermatology.

Instead of risking all of these serious side effects, you can opt for any of the intriguing, and downright innovative self-tanning formulas currently on the market. Seriously, there's something for everyone—even the most ghostly among us (a category I absolutely fit into and am reminded of every time I pick out a new foundation).

"Self-tanners rely on dihydroxyacetone, a pigmenting agent, to form a tan. Unlike UV tanning booths or UV and visible light radiation from the sun, self-tanners do not increase your risk of developing skin cancer," shares Dr. Karan Lal, D.O., F.A.A.D., a double board-certified dermatologist and pediatric dermatologist with Affiliated Dermatology

Other pros? Unlike UV radiation, self-tanners don't break down collagen in the skin or lead to discoloration or skin growths or spots.

As nurse Tara Adashev so simply puts it, "there are so many amazing spray tan and self-tanning products in the market right now that give you that natural glow without the cancer."

Ahead, Marie Claire consults skincare and tanning professionals for in-depth (light-to-medium, if we're talking shade specifics) information on the best self-tanners for pale skin.

What to Look For in a Pale Skin Self-Tanner

  • Formula: Today's self-tanners come in a variety of formats, including sprays, tanning drops and serums (which you mix in with your favorite moisturizer), creams and lotions (which offer gradual results and a bit of extra moisture), and mousses/foams (which work quickly, but can result in a streaky tan if you're inexperienced with application).
  • Shade: "Applying a color too dark for your skin tone won’t look natural," shares Egan. If you're naturally pale, it's best to start with a light or medium tan color—read the label! The best part about self-tanner is that many of them are gradual; you can always add more if you want to go a little bronzier. (P.S.—We also have a guide to the best bronzers for fair skin.)
  • Confidence: Besides the skin-safety benefits, self-tanner can give you an easy boost of self-confidence. Dolce Glow founder and celebrity tan artist Isabel Alysa can attest to this. "My very first experience of trying self tanner, I was absolutely blown away by the instant confidence boost I endured," she says. "I really wanted everyone to experience the incredible feeling of radiance and glow that self-tanner brought me. I don’t think anyone is against a little confidence boost!"

The Best Self-Tanners for Pale Skin

Also Recommended

Miley Cyrus at the 2024 Grammys.

Miley Cyrus wore Dolce Glow tanner to perform at the 2024 Grammys. (Image credit: Getty Images)

How to Apply Self-Tanner

As the self-tanning expert, Alysa tells her pale clients to apply a lighter layer of product first and then build their tan until they're comfortable with the shade.

"It’s important to make sure you’re using a tanner that offers buildable coverage that allows this process to happen," she shares. Another tip? "Invest in a great application tool when applying the tanner! Everyone has different preferences when it comes to using a brush or mitt for the application process, so I would say, find what tool makes you comfortable and helps make the application the easiest." (My good friend Miley and I both love Dolce Glow's Kabuki Brush.)

Egan also recommends that you ensure your skin is clean and dry before applying tanner.

"Work in sections. I tend to start at the top of my body and work my way down. Apply a small amount to your skin, smaller than a pea. Pat and smooth the self-tanner on your neck, décolletage, arms, and then downward to the rest of your body," she explains.

Next, smooth the product in with your fingertips or tool of choice," she says. "Look in a mirror before putting clothes on to ensure you didn’t miss a spot. If you did, simply apply to the spots missed and gently smooth in."

And while many new formulas don't require you to exfoliate beforehand, it's never a bad idea.

Self-Tanning Risks

Although they're about a million times better for you than a tanning bed, you must remember that most self-tanners do not provide any UV protection. Please, please continue to use sunscreen while using, even if you're bronzed.

Dr. Camp says that other self-tanning risks include uneven application (which can cause a blotchy tan!), staining of the palms or clothing, application site irritation or allergic contact dermatitis, and odor, as some products may have a chemical-like smell. Again, all are better options than skin cancer—but it is important to be aware of nonetheless.

Meet the Experts

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https://www.marieclaire.com/beauty/best-self-tanners-for-pale-skin/ Vfwr9HDjMmjLtJ7FCqt98V Fri, 22 Mar 2024 20:03:08 +0000
<![CDATA[ The Wildest Beauty Hacks Celebrities Swear By ]]> When it comes to beauty routines, few people have as much at their fingertips as celebrities: world-class dermatologists and money to spare, not to mention free luxury products. For some celebrities, that's enough; for others, beauty maintenance is an endless field of discovery. Medical-grade leeches, caviar on stretch marks, being stung by bees—you name it, one of your favorite celebrities has probably tried it. (Occasionally, A-listers do later walk back on their "tips": Suki Waterhouse claimed she washed her hair with Coke before admitting she made it up.)

Below, 32 wild, over-the-top celebrity beauty hacks. No matter what, for the love of all that is good, please consult a dermatologist before you do any new DIY treatment.

Bella Hadid

wild celeb hacks bella hadid

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Bella Hadid is far from the first celeb to dunk her face in ice water, but when her makeup artist posted a 23-second video of the model submerging her face into the freezing liquid, it reinvigorated the trend (apparently it helps with inflammation).

Jennifer Aniston

wild celeb hacks jennifer aniston

(Image credit: Getty Images)

A slightly modified version of the "plunge your face into ice water" trend, Jennifer Aniston told Vogue that her facialist taught her to get a bowl of ice water and then splash her face exactly 25 times. (Apparently the originator of this idea was Joan Crawford.)

Kendall Jenner

wild celeb hacks kendall jenner

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Kendall Jenner told Vogue that her everyday beauty routine consists of a DIY face mask that are made of everyday ingredients: avocado, mashed up; honey; oatmeal; and just a touch of lavender oil. ...actually, now I want to know if this works.

Scarlett Johansson

wild celeb hacks scarlett johansson

(Image credit: Getty Images)

According to an interview with ELLE UK, Johansson uses apple cider vinegar as a treatment on her face. "If your skin is problematic or you're having a lot of breakouts, it's really healing. It's a little bit stinky but if you're not sleeping over at your boyfriend's it's really effective!"

Kourtney Kardashian

wild celeb hacks kourtney kardashian

(Image credit: Getty Images)

The Kardashians are known for their wild beauty treatments. In an interview with New Beauty, Kourtney insisted the placenta pills she took post-pregnancy gave her energy and also "benefited my skin and hair. Every mother should take them if possible!"

Kim Kardashian

wild celeb hacks kim kardashian

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Kim Kardashian has tried a myriad of wild beauty hacks, including that now-infamous vampire facial (which she regrets, apparently) and placenta pills. But I'm equally fascinated by her facial cupping, which she said improves blood flow.

Cameron Diaz

wild celeb hacks Cameron Diaz

(Image credit: Getty Images)

According to Cameron Diaz's makeup artist, when she has a popped pimple, she treats it with Neosporin and Visine (yup, that's eye drops! You read it correctly!). Depending on which version of the story you're reading, she might actually be deliberately popping the pimple first, then applying her DIY solution. Ouch, maybe?

Jennifer Love Hewitt

wild celeb hacks jennifer love hewitt

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Apparently, Jennifer Love Hewitt uses toothpaste to reduce spots and blemishes. Lots of us did this back in the day (it was a tip passed around among teens in the '90s, as I recall), so we can't fault her—but apparently this is not the best way to treat acne.

Ashley Graham

wild celeb hacks ashley graham

(Image credit: Getty Images)

In a beauty secrets video with Vogue, Ashley Graham revealed the unusual product she uses on her eyebrows. "I like to use just hair gel and a spoolie to keep them up, because it's actually really strong. It's all about the hair gel for the eyebrows."

Lady Gaga

wild celeb hacks lady gaga

(Image credit: Getty Images)

According to a couple sources, Lady Gaga (or her makeup artist) uses Sellotape (transparent adhesive) to remove eye makeup. You place it over your eyes, or wherever the glitter is, and then gently rip it off. Skin experts caution against it if you have sensitive skin.

Miranda Kerr

wild celeb hacks miranda kerr

(Image credit: Getty Images)

According to the beauty blog for Beth Bender Beauty, Miranda Kerr uses clear lip balm as a highlighter around her eyes (also, she's far from the only one to do this). She also apparently uses a spoon to curl her lashes if she happens to be without an eyelash curler.

Laverne Cox

wild celeb hacks Laverne Cox

(Image credit: Getty Images)

In an interview with the New York Times, Laverne Cox shared the surprising face wash she uses. "I’m not as chichi as I appear. I wash my face with baby shampoo. It’s really weird, but if it’s gentle enough for a baby, then it’s good enough for me."

Halle Berry

wild celeb hacks halle berry

(Image credit: Getty Images)

According to an old Instagram post (and later reported by Bustle), Halle Berry mixes coffee grounds into her body wash for apparently helping as an exfoliant and keeping her skin tight. I have questions. Does she still do this? Doesn't it...hurt??

Shay Mitchell

wild celeb hacks Shay Mitchell

(Image credit: Getty Images)

According to Business Insider, Shay Mitchell uses beets for beauty. "I'll rub them on my lips if I want to have a natural rosy tint for the whole day, because it does really last," she said, adding, "So yeah, you're almost tinting your lips using a raw beet." 

Catherine Zeta-Jones

wild celeb hacks  Catherine Zeta-Jones

(Image credit: Getty Images)

While she's not the only one to do this particular beauty hack, Catherine Zeta-Jones was probably the most famous person who admitted she uses beer and honey in her hair to condition it, and she also apparently brushes her teeth with a strawberry to lighten surface stains.

January Jones

wild celeb hacks january jones

(Image credit: Getty Images)

In an Instagram post, January Jones added just a splash of the beer she was drinking in her bath water. "I recently read about what Cleopatra would put in her baths...I just feel like, depending on who you’ve dated, it can’t be that much different, right?”

Sandra Bullock

celeb hacks sandra bullock

(Image credit: Getty Images)

As reported by Glamour, Sandra Bullock has a strange beauty secret. "I didn't realize that putting hemorrhoid ointment on your face is acceptable in the beauty business," she said. "But apparently, butt cream helps lines around the eyes!" 

Sienna Miller

wild celeb hacks sienna miller

(Image credit: Getty Images)

I'm just gonna leave this here from Sienna Miller: "I've also had pink hair—when trying to dye it red—and green hair, when trying to dye it brown. That was awful actually, I used henna, thinking I was being all organic and clever, and it was totally impenetrable—I just couldn't get it back to normal. The only thing that made any difference was ketchup, so for about a year-and-a-half I had to put tomato ketchup on my hair under heat until it went back to normal.” 

Kesha

wild celeb hacks kesha

(Image credit: Getty Images)

In an interview with Refinery29, in which she also said she uses butt masks, Kesha explained, "I was at CVS Pharmacy recently getting essentials and I saw men's beard dye and I thought, I'll put it on my eyebrows...It makes them really dark and wild-looking. It's something that I discovered in quarantine, and it's the first time I've done it on myself."

Shailene Woodley

wild celeb hack Shailene Woodley

(Image credit: Getty Images)

From eating clay to oil-pulling, Shailene Woodley has given us many a wild beauty tip. She's also said that she doesn't like to do anything to her hair. Like, anything. "I basically have horse hair. It’s so low-maintenance...I only shampoo it like once a month—the oilier, the better.”

Devon Windsor

wild celeb hacks devon windsor

(Image credit: Getty Images)

The Victoria Secret model shared on social media that she used—I'm not kidding—Pepto-Bismol to tighten pores and remove blackheads. Allure came in to report that, according to skin experts, while it contains a relative to salicylic acid, you should use an actual skin treatment instead.

Beyoncé

wild celeb hacks Beyoncé

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Queen Bey's longtime makeup artist Sir John revealed to E! News that "My [favorite] beauty hack is to use Elmer's glue stick as the ultimate brow gel in the heat. It doesn't clog your pores and it washes off easily," he said. (This isn't that wild, drag queens do this too, but it was a surprising moment of transparency about the iconic singer.)

Demi Moore

celeb hacks demi moore

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Demi Moore apparently told David Letterman, "I was in Austria doing a cleanse and part of the treatment was leech therapy. These aren't just swamp leeches though—we are talking about highly trained medical leeches...It detoxifies your blood—I'm feeling very detoxified right now."

Blake Lively

wild celeb hacks blake lively

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Blake Lively is not the only one to do this (Salma Hayek and Zoë Saldaña do it too, apparently), but she told Byrdie (reported by Allure) that she uses mayonnaise to keep her hair soft. "My mom…used to put oil or mayonnaise on the bottom half of her hair before she would shower. That way, when she would shampoo, the soap wouldn't strip the bottom of the hair."

Snooki

wild celeb hacks snooki

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Snooki apparently told Conan O'Brien (reported by Today) that she uses "clean cat litter" on her face. “Well, I definitely like to Google a lot, and I don’t like to spend a lot of money on spa treatments—just because I’m a cheap-o...So I Googled what else I could use that was not so expensive. It was cat litter.”

Cardi B

wild celeb hacks cardi b

(Image credit: Getty Images)

According to Cardi B's makeup artist Erika La Pearl, to prep the rapper's face before putting on makeup, "I use Stacked Skincare’s Dermaplaning tool. This is used to smooth out and brighten the skin." In case you missed it, dermaplaning is used to skim/shave off the surface layers of skin—which is intense if you're doing it before every makeup application.

Margot Robbie

wild celeb hacks  Margot Robbie

(Image credit: Getty Images)

As Margot Robbie explained to ELLE UK, for her lip balm, "I use Bepanthen, which is actually a nipple cream for breastfeeding mothers or diaper rash cream for babies. I have a conspiracy theory that lip balms actually have additives in them to dry your lips out so you keep buying them. But because Bepanthen is just a cream for dry skin, it works. It's what I've used my whole life."

Gwyneth Paltrow

wild celeb hacks gwyneth paltrow

(Image credit: Getty Images)

In an interview with the New York Times, Gwyneth Paltrow admitted, "I've been stung by bees. It's a thousands of years old treatment called apitherapy. People use it to get rid of inflammation and scarring. It's actually pretty incredible if you research it...Man, it's painful."

Victoria Beckham

wild celeb hacks victoria beckham

(Image credit: Getty Images)

As reported by HuffPost and Glamour, Victoria Beckham is rumored to love a facial that's termed the "Geisha facial" and utilizes powdered nightingale droppings as an exfoliation tool. Yup, you read that right: bird poo. Can someone please figure out if this is real?

Tom Cruise

wild celeb hacks tom cruise

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Also reported by HuffPost, Tom Cruise does the nightingale dropping facial, according to "a source" talking to Now magazine. "Tom doesn't go in for Botox or surgery, but he does pay close attention to all the new and popular natural treatments...He recently started experimenting with the nightingale poo facial."

Angelina Jolie

celeb hacks angelina jolie

(Image credit: Getty Images)

According to Glamour, Angelina Jolie has a surprising solution for her skin: caviar. "The actress used expensive Baerli sturgeon to reduce the appearance of stretch marks after she gave birth to her twins. The fish eggs are said to be rich in oil and therefore are a powerful moisturiser."

Olivia Munn

wild celeb hacks olivia munn

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Speaking to The Cut, Olivia Munn said that her anti-aging beauty regimen came down to...potatoes that are high in hyaluronic acid. "In eating them, I saw a huge difference...Usually, in the morning, I would get the pillow creases [on my face] and rub them out with lotion. Now, after a month of doing the potatoes every single day, the line would be gone as it was when I was younger."

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https://www.marieclaire.com/culture/wild-celebrity-beauty-hacks/ 9rk9dsDMzdi2u5sq2goLvZ Fri, 22 Mar 2024 18:36:35 +0000
<![CDATA[ Vanessa Hudgens Considers Herself a Witch ]]> There’s no right way to “do” wellness, but Marie Claire’s Doing Well offers a glimpse into the self-care mantras, therapies, and affirmations practiced by industry trailblazers.


Vanessa Hudgens is high on life. The High School Musical alum co-hosted the Oscars red carpet pre-show with Julianne Hough, and took that opportunity to reveal her pregnancy to the world, debuting her bump in a dramatic fitted black gown by Vera Wang. For the newly married Hudgens—who said "I do" to husband Cole Tucker in December—feeling happy, fit and well has always been a priority, and it’s fair to say it will only get stronger in the coming months.

The 35-year-old is also prioritizing the health of her unborn child. In fact, Caliwater, the cactus water brand she launched with her friend Oliver Trevena in 2020, recently launched a new line of kids’ drink pouches aptly called Caliwater Kids. "Our friends realized that their kids were taking all of the Caliwater before they could get to it," Hudgens tells Marie Claire.

When she’s not making sure she (and the kids in her life) stay hydrated under the California sun or promoting her new movie, French Girl, Hudgens considers herself a witch. She loves nothing more than experimenting with herbs and stones or meditating amid wildflowers. She’s also a fitness fanatic and can often be found at SoulCycle or Solidcore or simply out on a walk with her toy poodle mix, Darla. 

On a phone call from Arizona two days before her pregnancy announcement, Hudgens expands on her "whimsical" approach to wellness.

The wellness trend I haven't tried yet but want to:

(Image credit: Future)

When it comes to wellness, I've given almost everything a go, and the things that I haven't, I'm just not really the biggest fan of. For instance, I understand the perks of doing ice baths, but I would rather not do it and I'm OK with that. My mental health is great and I don't need to do it. But power to the people who do.

A wellness practice you swear by that some might find

(Image credit: Future)

Meditation and manifestation go hand in hand for me. Doing both is a really great way just to decompress, recenter and refocus. For me it's kind of ritualistic. I do consider myself a witch and I love working with the moon and with herbs and with stones and, you know, everything has a meaning and an energy and the more you learn about what everything has to offer, the more you can use its energy to bring forth the things you want in your life. I love the idea of [meditating] every day, but that's just not practical. I might try to do it at least once a week, like a good deep meditation. But when it comes to manifesting and meditating and having a whole ritual together, that normally happens once a month.

Vanessa Hudgens poses in black attire

Vanessa Hudgens is comfortable in her own skin—she enjoys relaxing and meditating with wildflowers. (Image credit: Vanessa Hudgens)

No matter how hard you try, you just can't get into:

(Image credit: Future)

Ice baths would probably be one of them. IVs, I just—I cannot, I can't get into it. I hate the feeling of the drip going into my arm. Like, I understand how good it is for you but it just really icks me out.

Your ideal wellness routine:

(Image credit: Future)

Honestly, just a walk outside—whether that's a hike or taking Darla on a walk. It always grounds me and makes me just really present, which I feel like is the whole point of wellness. Working with flowers, whether that's putting together arrangements or admiring wildflowers or sitting and meditating with wildflowers, that sets my spirit ablaze. I just love it. I feel so connected with nature when I'm surrounded by flowers. Baths, I take a lot of baths. I feel like that's another really great way to decompress. I had a healer once tell me—water is obviously an amazing healer, but especially for me, it's something that I need in order to balance me out. Ever since then I have been taking so many baths and swimming—there's a reason why I love going on vacation somewhere tropical and swimming in the ocean. It's just, I don't know, so connecting.

Low-brow feel-good hack:

(Image credit: Future)

I love essential oils so much, whether it's jasmine or lavender in the evening—or a little citrus is like a mood elevator. I just love essential oils. I feel like they're a really great way to pick yourself up and bring yourself into the present. I think that the more you can activate your senses, the more it brings you into the present.

High-brow feel-good splurge:

(Image credit: Future)

A good lymphatic massage, I feel. I think that we have all been victims of retaining water and there's nothing better than getting a lymphatic massage and just kind of flushing out the unnecessary retention that we have. It just makes me feel lighter.

The best way to describe your wellness vibe:

(Image credit: Future)

Laid-back, free-spirited, and… whimsical.

Vanessa Hudgens on a walk in LA with a friend.

Vanessa Hudgens wellness routine includes walking or hiking in Los Angeles with friends. (Image credit: Getty Images)

Who you look to for advice:

(Image credit: Future)

Honestly, myself most of the time—because I feel like we are all gifted with intuition and inner wisdom, and the more that we can silence our mind and tap into that, the more we can become acquainted with ourselves, but also tap into that wisdom. I feel like we're given everything that we need. It’s just being able to silence the mind, to be able to listen to it.

The wellness apps we'd find on your phone:

(Image credit: Future)

I've got all my fitness ones. I've got Mindbody. I’ve got SoulCycle. Corepower Yoga. AllTrails, which is such a necessity. I have The Sculpt Society. I've got Solidcore.

When you need to reset:

(Image credit: Future)

I'll go on a walk, bring my phone, put on a song, let it play in my back pocket and just, like, breathe, and try to take in the details of everything around me.

Your current state of mind:

(Image credit: Future)

I'm trying to get the right word. I feel… in wonderment.

Your mental health focus right now:

(Image credit: Future)

I'm just innately a very happy person. I feel like I've also been very fortunate to listen to my inner intuition and genuinely do the things that make me happy. And I think that life is about perspective and what you focus your energy and attention on is where you are going to bring yourself to. I like looking at the positives and the beauty and the magic of life. And therefore that's where life takes me. I think that I was born with a real sense of wonderment.

When and where you feel the happiest:

(Image credit: Future)

Surrounded by flowers. Being in nature. Being at home, being with the people I love, or being at a festival.

Vanessa Hudgens, Nikki Reed, Brooke Burke and Roselyn Sanchez for Caliwater

Brooke Burke, Nikki Reed, Roselyn Sanchez, and Vanessa Hudgens for Caliwater. (Image credit: Courtesy of Caliwater)

Wellness advice you've received that...isn't great:

(Image credit: Future)

That you have to be super regimented in your ways. I feel like that leaves no room for freedom and life to happen.

The thing you'd tell your younger self about wellness

(Image credit: Future)

Just to play with it and see what fits.

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https://www.marieclaire.com/beauty/doing-well-vanessa-hudgens/ pYLHmzJnrWnvC8dimNcY7i Fri, 22 Mar 2024 18:16:22 +0000
<![CDATA[ So Many Luxury Beauty Products Are On Sale at Nordstrom Right Now ]]> I have happy news to share: Nordstrom's Spring Sale is here. In the women's section alone, there are thousands of items on sale (exactly 18,835 at the time of writing), and trust us—these picks are worth shopping. Maybe you want to fill any gaps in your spring wardrobe with some of Nordstrom's best basics. Or maybe you've got a trip on the horizon and need a new vacation outfit (or two). In any case, I want to take a moment to draw your attention to a more underrated section of Nordstrom's Spring Sale: the luxury beauty deals.

From now through April 2, you can score up to 50 percent off on select makeup, skincare, body care, and fragrance products. On-sale items come from luxurious, top-of-the-line brands like Tom Ford, Westman Atelier, YSL Beauty, and Armani, to name a few. There's something for everyone in the sale, too. Are you on the hunt for a new signature fragrance? Grab a Tom Ford perfume set that's on rare sale. Want to dip your toe into luxury makeup? Start with Westman Atelier's Le Étoiles gift set. In short, Nordstrom's Spring Sale is sure to have your new beauty favorite.

As a cherry on top of this sale, Nordstrom is even offering three times the number of reward points for beauty purchases for Nordy Club Members (it's free to sign up, by the way).

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https://www.marieclaire.com/beauty/nordstrom-spring-sale-2024-best-beauty-deals/ EXfN3McjNhAPVNxbwyYJFP Fri, 22 Mar 2024 16:56:49 +0000
<![CDATA[ The Best Concealers for Mature Skin Won't Sink Into Under-Eye Creases ]]> The best concealers are capable of oh-so-many things. They can brighten, color correct, cover redness, or even decrease under-eye puffiness with a hint of caffeine and a metal applicator. But, as we age, there are added factors to consider when choosing a coverage product. The best concealers for mature skin must be lightweight (cakiness is avoidable) and deeply hydrating to prevent product from settling into little lines. Thankfully, the concealer sector, which is expected to be worth a shocking $12,012 million by 2031, is constantly releasing new formulations—and revamping existing skus to perform at a higher standard. 

In the past year, Charlotte Tilbury and Fenty entered the concealer game for the first time, while Laura Mercier and Estee Lauder expanded their current offerings. Of course, brands like NARS and YSL have amassed a cult following (including yours truly, Jennifer Lopez, and Kendall Jenner) for their seemingly magical concealers that work to brighten, highlight, and color correct. Those few just make up the highlight reel.

To get the full breakdown on the concealers in my personal collection (I’ve tested well over 100 formulas, FYI) and those loved by makeup artists and celebrities, read ahead.

The Best Concealers for Mature Skin

Also Recommended

What to Look for in a Concealer for Mature Skin

As a general rule of thumb, hydrating, radiant concealers are going to work better on mature skin types. “Matte formulas tend to enhance fine lines and can look very harsh on drier skin,” explains makeup artist Michele Shakeshaft. She recommends looking for descriptive words like “creamy” or “blendable” when selecting a product to ensure it lays smoothly.

If you are really in touch with the skincare side, do a quick scan of the product’s INCI list. “Hydrating hyaluronic acid and brightening niacinamide and vitamin C are excellent ingredients to look for in a concealer for the under-eye area,” adds celebrity makeup artist Sofia Tilbury, who has worked with Salma Hayek, Kate Moss, and Penelope Cruz. 

best concealer

The Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk Concealer provides a hydrating, luminous finish. (Image credit: Sephora )

When Do I Apply Concealer on Mature Skin?

Less is more when it comes to concealer, so you should only apply extra coverage where you need it. After putting the finishing touches on your foundation, you’ll want to apply concealer to any areas that need color correction or brightness. “Precise coverage will perfect the look of the skin without building texture or creating a heavy look,” notes Shakeshaft.

Do I Need Different Concealers for Different Concerns?

The number of concealers you need in your collection really depends on the intensity of your concerns. By all means, you can use one formula on your under eyes and complexion. That said, you might want to throw a color corrector into the mix. “It’s a great way to cancel out blue, purple, and green pigments in the skin that can otherwise show through your foundation or powder base,” notes Tilbury. These get applied directly after moisturizer. “Let the color corrector dry until it becomes a little tacky and less moveable,” explains Malek. “Then go in with your concealer on a flat brush and blend it out with a beauty blender.” 

best concealer

The Cle de Peau concealer stick doubles as foundation—and contains SPF 27. (Image credit: Sephora )

What Shade Concealer Do I Choose?

This is largely personal preference. A few years ago, most makeup artists would tell you to go two shades lighter than your foundation in order to brighten the under-eye. Now, the trends have changed slightly. In order to achieve a more natural look, you should pick a concealer that’s one shade lighter. “We are looking to bring that area forward, brighten, and lessen the look of depth,” says Shakeshaft. 

Depending on how bright you like your under-eye concealer, you might also want to consider having an alternative, slightly darker concealer on hand for touch ups on the face. 

How to Apply Concealer for Mature Skin

Picking the right concealer formula is only half the battle. Knowing the proper way to apply your concealer? That’s equally—if not more—important. “It’s all about building up in sheer layers to achieve your desired coverage and only focusing on using products where you feel that you need it,” notes Tilbury. This slow-and-steady technique ensures that the concealer looks airbrushed and natural anywhere on the skin.

If you’re specifically concerned about applying concealer in the under eye area, Shakeshaft suggests working from the bottom up. “Unless you are trying to neutralize redness in the lash line, don’t take concealer up to the base of the lashes. Apply it at the outer corner of the eye or deepest area of the under eye pocket, then tap it upwards, towards the lash line.”

When it comes to powder, you’re probably better off skipping it altogether, as it can draw attention to fine lines. Shadi suggests using minimal translucent powder with an eyeshadow brush if you need to set your makeup.

Meet the Experts

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https://www.marieclaire.com/beauty/best-concealers-mature-skin/ qd5Xgi3rMHeFp3f53Ra4ZL Fri, 22 Mar 2024 15:05:29 +0000
<![CDATA[ My Best-Smelling Colleagues Share the "Secret" Perfumes They Keep Close to Their Chests ]]> We're beauty editors, which means we have a rich and diverse fragrance wardrobe. From sweet gourmand scents like vanilla and caramel to soft floral fragrances and beyond, we have a little bit of everything at arm's reach. Many of these are designer perfumes—you know, iconic bottles from Chanel, Dior, and Tom Ford. While these are well-loved, we also like to wear other, lesser-known scents.

Whether new or old, our under-the-radar perfumes are the ones we keep closest to our chests. Look, we don't mean to gatekeep, but these scents are special, and we don't like sharing them with just anyone. Today, though, we'll make an exception. Keep scrolling to see 14 little-known perfumes that deserve a spot in your fragrance collection, according to five scent-obsessed beauty editors.

This article was originally published on Who What Wear.

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https://www.marieclaire.com/beauty/secret-perfumes-recommendations/ VQjJJ6qidnRmiGamNZJNoi Thu, 21 Mar 2024 21:53:36 +0000
<![CDATA[ It's Easy to Fall in Love With These 17 Wedding Day Perfumes ]]> By the time your wedding arrives, you've likely made some big decisions. You know who you want to spend the rest of your life with. (That's major!) But have you considered what you want to smell like in those oh-so-special moments? And, will it be a long-lasting fragrance? Finding the best wedding day perfume may sound like a frivolous pursuit, but it isn't; fragrance sets the scene for a magical day in many ways.

Honorine Blanc, a dsm-firmenich Master Perfumer, is constantly inspired by a fragrance's ability to trigger emotions. "It's a cloud around you that you create," she shares. "Depending on the occasion, the fragrance will enhance the mood and emotion, or a feeling you want to be in."

While some set "floral" or "pretty bottle" standards for their wedding day perfumes, Blanc says there are no rules to selecting a special occasion fragrance. Citrus scents make some feel fresh and sexy, while others like gourmand or woody smells.

"It’s all about what you want to experience," she adds. "Fragrance is really your second personality—the most you. When you wear a fragrance, it’s showing someone a piece of yourself." Perfumer Jérôme Epinette (he's the genius behind Victoria Beckham Beauty's ultra-romantic scents) agrees, adding that it doesn't hurt to pick something your partner will appreciate. However, let's be honest: they're already completely in love with you, too.

"For a night all about the celebration of two, it would be wise to select something your partner will respond positively to!" he shares. "After that, being the star of the event, choose something memorable and signature with beautiful sillage and long-lastingness to take you late into the night. Wedding guests will remember your presence and the event by your perfume."

Ahead, fragrance specialists and a celebrity wedding planner share what fragrance means to them romantically. You'll also discover the best wedding day perfumes—and how to wear them.

What to Look For in a Wedding Day Perfume

  • Style: Ideally full of lightness and joy, your wedding day isn't the time for a dark, moody, overtly sexy fragrance (unless that's your style, in which case it's the perfect time)Instead, Blanc recommends a scent that feels luminous, colorful, and softly sensual. Your choice should soothe you and make you happy.
  • Notes: Although there are no real rules for selecting a wedding day fragrance, we can offer suggestions. "I see romance as profound intimacy, optimism, and joy. Creating a fragrance to deliver on those emotions means using notes that cue an uplifting spirit, but also those with sensuality," shares Epinette. "For me, this means using both musky, skin-like notes and touches of powerful, deep, long-lasting florals or opulent, creamy woods that capture the intensity of love. In a more traditional sense, romance in perfumes can also be expressed using more delicate florals that offer that more caring, loving aspect." Fragrance specialist Eudora Nwasike also has a list of favorite wedding-esque notes for your perusing pleasure. Rose, tuberose, amber, sandalwood, iris, orange blossom, vanilla, heliotrope, peony, jasmine, and gardenia all make the fragrance expert's cut. "Sometimes, when words fail to encapsulate the magnitude of love I have for someone, a fragrance does the talking for me," the expert shares. "It is the most beautiful way to express your feelings and show admiration towards someone you care about."

NEW YORK - MARCH 24: Actress Marilyn Monroe gets ready to go see the play

Marilyn Monroe enjoyed spraying Chanel No.5 for special events. Here, in 1955, she is getting ready to go to the theater. (Image credit: Getty Images)
  • Season: It can be beneficial to suit your wedding fragrance to the overall environment of the event—the season it's taking place should be factored in. Nwasike says to opt for "soft and airy" scents for spring—something fresh, floral, or fruity, perhaps? Autumn and winter weddings pair well with spicy, woody, and/or amber-y fragrances.
  • Simplicity: Wearing a fragrance you're not used to can help you discover hidden facets of your personality, but you want to debut something you're fairly familiar with while walking down the aisle. The simple reason: what if you end up hating it? "I wouldn’t wear something totally new for my wedding because you want everything to be happy," shares Blanc. Unless you feel like trying out the fragrance beforehand, save a blind application for a first date.
  • Layering: With that being said, a wedding is a great time to stray a bit from your day-to-day fragrance. You want the scent memory to be specific to this day, right? "If you tend to wear light fragrances, I recommend experimenting with layering a more unique and distinctive scent onto your standard base," shares wedding planner extraordinaire Colin Cowie, who was responsible for J.Lo and Ben Affleck's nuptials. "Perhaps it’s a note that evokes something about the area or venue (perhaps it’s lavender in the South of France), or even a particular bloom in your bouquet (perhaps a gardenia). Of course, layering fragrances can get tricky and complex, so allow time to experiment or call upon experts who can help you formulate a custom scent."

The Best Wedding Day Perfumes

Also Recommended

How to Apply Your Wedding Day Fragrance

While knowing the basics of perfume application is important (pulse points and no rubbing!), Blanc's wedding day application instructions are much more intimate.

"I would be by myself in my room. I would close the door. And before wearing my wedding dress I would spray it straight on my skin," shares the master perfumer.

Throughout the day, turn to your fragrance when you need to feel centered. Perhaps before walking down the aisle?

"The fragrance will be the thing you wear that will be the closest to you," she adds. "Wear something that will make you feel good, happy, in love. And on the day of the wedding, wear the fragrance for you and not others. It’s about you that day."

Meet the Experts

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https://www.marieclaire.com/beauty/best-wedding-day-perfumes/ wAGoc3G8FLRgQT4tvDAxi8 Thu, 21 Mar 2024 19:44:38 +0000