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Why and how often do I need to wash makeup brushes and sponges?

<p><em><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/enzo-palombo-249510">Enzo Palombo</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/swinburne-university-of-technology-767">Swinburne University of Technology</a> and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/rosalie-hocking-1428271">Rosalie Hocking</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/swinburne-university-of-technology-767">Swinburne University of Technology</a></em></p> <p>From the bristles of brushes to the porous surfaces of sponges, your makeup kit can harbour a host of bacteria and fungi.</p> <p>These potentially hazardous contaminants can originate not only from the cosmetics themselves, but also from the very surface of our skin.</p> <p>So, how can we keep things hygienic and avoid microbial growth on makeup brushes and sponges? Here’s what you need to know.</p> <h2>How do germs and fungi get in my brushes and sponges?</h2> <p>Germs and fungi can make their way into your makeup kit in lots of ways.</p> <p>Ever flushed a toilet with the lid open with your makeup brushes nearby? There’s a good chance <a href="https://theconversation.com/mobile-phones-are-covered-in-germs-disinfecting-them-daily-could-help-stop-diseases-spreading-135318">faecal particles</a> have landed on them.</p> <p>Perhaps a family member or housemate has used your eyeshadow brush when you weren’t looking, and transferred some microbes across in the process.</p> <p>Bacteria that trigger a pimple outbreak can be easily transferred from the surface of your skin to a makeup brush or sponge.</p> <p>And tiny little mites called Demodex mites, which have been linked to certain rashes and acne, live on your skin, as well, and so may end up in your sponge or brushes.</p> <p>Bacterial contamination of <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38020232/">lip cosmetics</a>, in particular, can pose a risk of skin and eye infections (so keep that in mind if you use lip brushes). Lipsticks are frequently contaminated with bacteria such as <em>Staphylococcus aureus</em>, <em>E. coli</em>, and <em>Streptococcus pneumoniae</em>.</p> <p>Low-quality cosmetics are more likely to have higher and more diverse microbial growth compared to <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1319562X23002978?pes=vor">high-quality cosmetics</a>.</p> <p>Brushes exposed to sensitive areas like the eyes, mouth and nose are particularly susceptible to being potential sources of infection.</p> <p>The range of conditions caused by these microorganisms includes:</p> <ul> <li> <p>abscesses</p> </li> <li> <p>skin and soft tissue infections</p> </li> <li> <p>skin lesions</p> </li> <li> <p>rashes</p> </li> <li> <p>and dermatitis.</p> </li> </ul> <p>In severe cases, infections can lead to invasion of the bloodstream or deep tissues.</p> <p>Commercially available cosmetics contain varying amounts and types of preservatives aimed at inhibiting the growth of fungi and bacteria.</p> <p>But when you apply makeup, different cosmetics with unique formulations of preservatives can become mixed. When a preservative meant for one product mixes with others, it might not work as well because they have different water amounts or pH levels.</p> <p>So preservatives are not foolproof. We also need to observe good hygiene practices when it comes to brushes and other cosmetics applicators.</p> <h2>Keeping brushes clean</h2> <p>Start with the basics: never <a href="https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/Isolation-of-Pathogenic-Microbes-from-Beauty-Salons-Hassan-Hamad/0199635290628fe326fcd04a2b8a2422884a8240">share makeup brushes or sponges</a>. Everyone carries different microbes on their skin, so sharing brushes and sponges means you are also sharing germs and fungi.</p> <p>If you need to share makeup, use something disposable to apply it, or make sure any shared brushes are washed and sterilised before the next person uses it.</p> <p>Clean makeup brushes by washing with hot soapy water and rinsing thoroughly.</p> <p>How often? Stick to a cleaning routine you can repeat with consistency (as opposed to a deep clean that is done annually). <a href="https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-secrets/routine/clean-your-makeup-brushes#:%7E:text=To%20protect%20your%20skin%20and,every%207%20to%2010%20days.">Once a week</a> might be a good goal for some, while others may need to wash more regularly if they are heavy users of makeup.</p> <p>Definitely wash straight away if someone else has used your brushes or sponges. And if you’ve had an eye infection such as conjunctivitis, ensure you clean applicators thoroughly after the infection has resolved.</p> <p>You can use bactericidal soap, 70% ethanol or chlorhexidine solutions to wash. Just make sure you wash very thoroughly with hot water after, as some of these things can irritate your skin. (While some people online say alcohol can degrade brushes and sponges, opinion seems to be mixed; in general, most disinfectants are unlikely to cause significant corrosion.)</p> <p>For some brushes, heating or steaming them and letting them dry may also be an effective sterilisation method once they are washed with detergent. Microwaving sponges isn’t a good idea because while the heat generated by a domestic microwave would kill microbes, it would need temperatures approaching 100°C for a decent period of time (at least several minutes). The heat could melt some parts of the sponge and hot materials could be a scalding hazard.</p> <p>Once clean, ensure brushes and sponges are stored in a dry place away from water sources (and not near an open toilet).</p> <p>If you’re having makeup applied professionally, brushes and applicators should be sterilised or changed from person to person.</p> <h2>Should I wash them with micellar water?</h2> <p>No.</p> <p>Not only is this expensive, it’s unnecessary. The same benefits can be achieved with cheaper detergents or alcohol (just rinse brushes carefully afterwards).</p> <p>Disinfection methods such as using bactericidal soap, 70% ethanol, or chlorhexidine are all very good at reducing the amount of microbes on your brushes and sponges.<img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/220280/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /></p> <p><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/enzo-palombo-249510"><em>Enzo Palombo</em></a><em>, Professor of Microbiology, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/swinburne-university-of-technology-767">Swinburne University of Technology</a> and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/rosalie-hocking-1428271">Rosalie Hocking</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/swinburne-university-of-technology-767">Swinburne University of Technology</a></em></p> <p><em>Image credits: Getty Images </em></p> <p><em>This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/why-and-how-often-do-i-need-to-wash-makeup-brushes-and-sponges-220280">original article</a>.</em></p>

Beauty & Style

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11 beauty trends that should have never happened

<p><strong>Avoid these beauty buzzkills at all costs</strong></p> <p>Recent years have seen particularly vibrant, eccentric and unpredictable movements in the beauty sphere. Don’t get us wrong; beauty is an aesthetic concept that is indeed subjective to the eye of the beholder, but some of these recent trends aren’t as appealing as you might think.</p> <p>While you’re recovering from the traumatic fashion trends embedded in our history, take comfort in knowing that just about every decade has encountered questionable decisions – whether that be sartorial or cosmetic. If the thought of sporting orange Crocs and popcorn shirts makes you cringe, consider discarding these unflattering beauty trends as well. </p> <p>As proven peeves for guys, makeup artists and job employers alike, these 11 beauty trends actually do the opposite of their intended purpose.</p> <p><strong>Overly sticky lip gloss</strong></p> <p>We all love to sport a glossy pout, but when your lips are so sticky that they begin to look like you doused your mouth in maple syrup, that’s a problem. Wearing it outside especially doesn’t help; nobody likes spending the day with sticky, raspberry pink-streaked strands. Not surprisingly, men aren’t fans of it either; surveys have found that the majority of men vote against women donning it on a dinner date. </p> <p>Not only does it diminish the whole effortless, woke-up-like-this impression you’re trying to pull off, but nobody wants to make out with super glue. Instead, try opting for long-lasting lip tints that moisturise with a subtle sheen.</p> <p><strong>Extensive self-tanner</strong></p> <p>Unless you’re naturally blessed with the wondrous genes of a luminous rose gold complexion, the rest of us mere mortals have been turning to self-tanners to bestow that subtle bronze glow. </p> <p>This doesn’t come with no strings attached however; not only can it ruin that expensive white cashmere sweater you just bought, one coat too many and you’ll begin to resemble a baked pastry. Instead of that “fresh-out-of-the-oven” look, try a tinted moisturiser instead.</p> <p><strong>Stiff hair </strong></p> <p>Applying too much hairspray can make your locks crunchier than a forest floor during September. Instead of spritzing half a bottle of hairspray on your poor scalp, keep it minimal or natural.</p> <p><strong>Hair add-ins </strong></p> <p>While synthetic clip-ons can be cute on a kid or at Coachella, feathers, extensions, and bells on a regular basis can come off rather childish. </p> <p>To prevent looking like a walking Christmas tree (and avoid making your hair look like an arts-and-crafts project), opt for dangling these trinkets on handbags or sporting them as jewellery instead.</p> <p><strong>Neon lips </strong></p> <p>While we’ve all seen the numerous images floating of (admittedly cool-looking) vibrant lipstick styles all over Pinterest, we’re still left scratching our heads as to what public setting one can don a neon green pout. </p> <p>Sporting electrifying colours too drastically divergent from your natural lip colour may make yourself come off as unprofessional and overly aggressive, so it’s best to stay away from the popping lips if you’re attending a job interview.</p> <p><strong>Wet hair look</strong></p> <p>Makeup artists worldwide have predicted this to be the major hair trend of the year. With celebrities like Rosie Huntington-Whiteley and Kim Kardashian West donning it on red carpets and said to have been inspired from Calvin Klein’s campaigns in the ‘90s, it has caught major spotlight everywhere. </p> <p>Although the tousled, wet hair look may look nice on the beachside, having a twist with too much slick on the streets may just come across as greasy, unwashed hair.</p> <p><strong>Colour-blocked makeup </strong></p> <p>Colour-blocking on clothing is undeniably chic, but colour-blocked makeup can make your face appear much too angular, and not in a good way. If you want to avoid looking like a makeup novice, don’t neglect the blending brush.</p> <p><strong>Hangover makeup</strong></p> <p>You know those mornings after a particularly rough night out, and you awaken to the sight of a bloated, saggy face?  Well, now there’s a makeup trend striving for just that. A new trend known as “hangover beauty,” this look praises “aegyo-sal” (translated into “charming fat”), striving to highlight the puffiness under one’s eyes. </p> <p>To achieve the look, one has to line the bags underneath the eye and add blush above the cheekbones before blending them together into a reddish hue. This one’s pretty straightforward: don’t try to enhance what the rest of society usually tries to cover up. </p> <p>While having your eyes appear puffy and red-rimmed may have been an intentional choice for you, chances are people are just going to wonder how much sleep you got last night.</p> <p><strong>Furry nails</strong></p> <p>Ever since Jan Arnold, renown co-founder of CND nail polish, showcased furry nails on the runway, people have been plastering actual faux fur on their nails. Several obvious questions arise to the impracticality factor of this trend (how do you even eat or wash your hands with those?), but this nail art might be stretching it a tad too far, even for nail aficionados. </p> <p>You don’t want someone holding your hand to feel like he’s on a date with Sasquatch, so stick with the gel and acrylic for first impressions.</p> <p><strong>Stark ombre hair </strong></p> <p>Don’t get us wrong; we love ombre for many reasons – when done right. The biggest advice you could take for this is to seriously invest in a reputable hair stylist, or else your hair may just end up looking like you are in desperate need of a root touch-up. </p> <p>Never go cheap with ombre, and make sure your colour transition is gradual as opposed to stark.</p> <p><strong>Bleached brows</strong></p> <p>We have Cara Delevingne to thank for sparking the brow obsession; the pencil-thin arches reminiscent of the ’90s have officially been eliminated for thicker, fuller brows. But if you thought microblading was a bold move, think again. </p> <p>Stars like Katy Perry, Kendall Jenner and Rita Ora have all plunged into the peroxide party, inciting an entire movement of people grabbing the bleach to make their arches completely invisible. While that’s fine and all – if you’re into that sort of thing – fuller brows are proven to make you look younger.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Getty Images </em></p> <p><em>This article was originally published on <a href="https://www.readersdigest.co.nz/healthsmart/beauty/11-beauty-trends-that-should-have-never-happened?pages=1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Reader's Digest</a>. </em></p>

Beauty & Style

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What is micellar water and how does it work?

<p><em><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/daniel-eldridge-1494633">Daniel Eldridge</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/swinburne-university-of-technology-767">Swinburne University of Technology</a></em></p> <p>Micellar water, a product found in supermarkets, chemists and bathroom cabinets around the world, is commonly used to remove make-up. It’s a very effective cleanser and many people swear by it as part of their skincare routine.</p> <p>So, what is micellar water and why is it so good at getting makeup and sunscreen off? Here’s the science.</p> <h2>What are micelles?</h2> <p>Oil and water generally don’t mix, which is why you’ll struggle to remove makeup and sunscreen (which both contain oils) with just plain water.</p> <p>But micellar water products contain something called micelles – clusters of molecules that are <em>very</em> effective at removing oily substances. To understand why, you need to first know two chemistry terms: hydrophilic and hydrophobic.</p> <p>A hydrophilic substance “loves” water and mixes easily with it. Salt and sugar are examples.</p> <p>A hydrophobic substance “hates” water and generally refuses to mix with it. Examples include oil and wax.</p> <p>Hydrophilic materials will happily mix with other hydrophilic materials. The same goes for hydrophobic substances. But if you try to combine hydrophilic and hydrophobic materials, they won’t mix.</p> <h2>How are micelles formed? It’s all about surfactants</h2> <p>The micelles in micellar water are formed by special molecules known as surfactants.</p> <p>Surfactant stands for surface active agent. These molecules looked at their hydrophilic and hydrophobic brethren and said, why not both? They are typically comprised of two ends: a head group that is hydrophilic and a tail that is hydrophobic.</p> <p>When a small amount of surfactant is added to water, the two ends of the molecule have competing interests. The hydrophilic head wants to be in the water, but the hydrophobic tail can’t stand water.</p> <p>Add enough surfactant and, eventually, we will pass a critical micelle concentration and the surfactants will self-assemble into clusters of approximately 20 to 100 surfactant molecules.</p> <p>All the hydrophilic heads will be pointing outwards, while the hydrophobic tails remain “hidden” at the centre. These clusters are micelles.</p> <p>These micelles have a hydrophilic exterior, meaning that they are very happy to remain mixed throughout water. However, in the centre remains a hydrophobic pocket that’s very good at attracting oils.</p> <p>This is very handy, and helps explain why adding some detergent (a surfactant) to water will allow you to wash an oily saucepan. The surfactant first helps lift of the oil, and then the oil can remained mixed into the water, finding a new home in the hydrophobic centre of the micelle.</p> <figure><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/fnRBCn8fm2o?wmode=transparent&amp;start=0" width="440" height="260" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></figure> <h2>Micellar water in action</h2> <p>Surfactants are in your dishwashing detergent, your body wash, your shampoo, your toothpaste and even many foods. In all of these cases, they are there to help the water interact with the dirt and oils, and micellar water is no different.</p> <p>When you apply some micellar water to a cotton pad, another convenient interaction occurs. The wet cotton is hydrophilic (loves water). Consequently, some of the micelles will unravel, with the hydrophilic heads being attracted to the wet cotton pad.</p> <p>Now, sticking out from the surface will be a layer of hydrophobic tail groups. These hydrophobic tails cannot wait to attract themselves to makeup, sunscreen, oils, dirt, grease and other contaminants on your face.</p> <p>As you sweep the cotton pad across your skin, these contaminants bind to the hydrophobic tails and are removed from the skin.</p> <p>Some contaminants will also find themselves encapsulated in the hydrophobic centres of the micelle.</p> <p>Either way, a cleaner surface is left behind.</p> <p>Look at how a cotton wipe soaked in micellar water cleans up a small oil spill, in comparison to water alone.</p> <figure><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/5Nge5FEiuYE?wmode=transparent&amp;start=0" width="440" height="260" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></figure> <h2>So why shouldn’t I just use dishwashing detergent to wash my face?</h2> <p>Technically, that would work as detergent does indeed contain lots of micelle-forming surfactants.</p> <p>But these particular surfactants would probably cause a lot of skin and eye irritation, while also damaging and drying out your skin. Not nice.</p> <p>The surfactants in micellar water are chosen to be mild and well tolerated by most people’s skin. But micellar water isn’t the only skincare product to contain micelles. There are many other face-cleaning products that also make great use of surfactant molecules and work very well too.</p> <p>Now, it’s not perfect. While it is effective at removing a wide range of contaminants, thick or heavy makeup might not come off easily with micellar water (you might need to do a more vigorous clean).</p> <p>Some products say there is “zero residue”, although the fine print clearly states this refers to visible residue.</p> <p>Many products also state there is no rinse off required. Surfactants will remain on your skin after product use, but for many people they don’t cause irritation. If your skin is feeling irritated after using a micellar water product, you can try rinsing afterwards or discontinuing use.</p> <p>And as is the case with many cosmetic products, you should test it first on a small patch of skin before using it all over your face.<!-- Below is The Conversation's page counter tag. Please DO NOT REMOVE. --><img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/219492/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /><!-- End of code. If you don't see any code above, please get new code from the Advanced tab after you click the republish button. The page counter does not collect any personal data. More info: https://theconversation.com/republishing-guidelines --></p> <p><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/daniel-eldridge-1494633"><em>Daniel Eldridge</em></a><em>, Senior Lecturer in Chemistry, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/swinburne-university-of-technology-767">Swinburne University of Technology</a></em></p> <p><em>Image credits: Getty Images </em></p> <p><em>This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/what-is-micellar-water-and-how-does-it-work-219492">original article</a>.</em></p>

Beauty & Style

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9 beauty hacks for when you’re running late

<p><strong>Spritz on dry shampoo</strong></p> <p>When you don’t have time to wash or blow-dry your hair, dry shampoo is your new best friend. One quick spritz is a shortcut to volume and oil-free hair. Simply spray the dry shampoo directly at the roots and massage in for a clean, tousled look. Beauty expert and blogger, Jeanette Zinno, shares her special trick, “Use a dry shampoo at night to wake up with fresh textured hair. It has all night to work and absorb.” </p> <p>If you’re in a pinch and don’t have any dry shampoo on hand, run a dryer sheet across your hair, suggests Rochelle Maribojoc from Spa Pechanga. Though it sounds strange, it effectively picks up static, dirt, and oil; even if you plan on throwing your hair into a ponytail or messy bun, it’ll look leagues better.</p> <p><strong>Stock up on travel-size products </strong></p> <p>If you’re constantly running late (hey – no judgments!), having a to-go makeup bag full of mini hair and makeup products at the ready is a lifesaver. On those harried mornings, simply grab this trusty tote and do your beauty routine on the fly (on the train or when you get to your office). </p> <p>Makeup artists, Sam &amp; Nic Chapman, share, “Travel-ready products are fantastic in a bind. If you haven’t had enough time to perfect your look in the morning, you’ll have the tools to freshen it up throughout the day.”</p> <p><strong>Take advantage of multipurpose products </strong></p> <p>Multi-purpose products help reduce the number of products you use and can be applied in less time. For example, a colour stick the can be used for cheeks, eyes, and lips. “I love it because it’s also very small, so you can take it on-the-go too,” Zinno says.</p> <p><strong>Dry nail polish fast with ice water</strong></p> <p>We’ve all been there – you’re going to an event or getting ready for a date, and you didn’t have time for a manicure. Of course, there’s no such thing as speedily painting your nails, as polish requires ample drying time, except, that is, if you use this brilliant trick from Zinno. </p> <p>“Soak your freshly-painted nails in a bowl of ice water for a minute; the cold will dry them quickly. Make sure you have the bowl ready before you paint your nails so you don’t mess them up!”</p> <p><strong>Skip the foundation</strong></p> <p>Unless your skin has a lot of unevenness, you really don’t need foundation 24/7. When you’re in a hurry, you can get away with dabbing concealer under eyes, down the bridge of the nose, on your chin, and on any problem areas like dark spots or pimples. </p> <p>“Using your concealer for spot-concealing is the best time-saver as it provides evenness of tone, while giving your complexion a natural, not-fussy look,” says CEO of Veil Cosmetics, Sébastien Tardif, who adds that you want to pick a concealer that matches your skin tone for the most flattering finish.</p> <p><strong>Apply eyeliner on the "negative space"</strong></p> <p>While cat liner and smoky eyes require a time commitment, filling in the negative space (the area of skin on your eyelid between your lashes and eye) is extremely easy and gives instant definition and make your lashes look fuller without any mascara.</p> <p><strong>Smudge eyeliner for an instant smoky eye </strong></p> <p>For the quickest smoky eye, “Simply line your eyes using a creamy eyeliner and smudge with your ring finger (it’s the weakest, so it’s the best for blending without pulling your delicate eyelid skin),” shares beauty expert and professional makeup artist, Sona Gasparian, “In just a few seconds, you’ll have a simple Parisian look!”</p> <p><strong>Blush is a must</strong></p> <p>Although contouring your full face will eat up too much time, blush is too important to skip, especially in the morning when most of us tend to roll out of bed looking pasty or sallow. If you’re super tight on time, dab a tinted lip balm on your cheeks and blend for a creamy blush alternative. </p> <p>“A little bit of colour on our cheeks can go a long way – the colour makes you look more alive without barely even trying,” says BH Cosmetics.</p> <p><strong>Swipe on a dark lip colour</strong></p> <p>A red, plum, or sophisticated brown lip hue can elevate your look and make others think you dedicated a whole lot of effort on your appearance, even when you didn’t. </p> <p>Choose a lip stain and you won’t even have to re-apply throughout the day, says Liz Fuller from Makeup Artistry Inc, “One quick pat on the lips in the morning as you’re running out the door, and you can forget about it for the remainder of the day.”</p> <p><em>Image credits: Getty Images</em></p> <p><em>This article originally appeared on <a href="https://www.readersdigest.co.nz/healthsmart/beauty/9-beauty-hacks-for-when-youre-running-late" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Reader's Digest</a>. </em></p>

Beauty & Style

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5 make-up mistakes making you look tired

<p>When applied correctly, a good make-up job can be a Godsend – taking you from tired and washed-out to invigorated and glowing. Unfortunately, it can work the other way as well with incorrect application making you look even more exhausted than you actually are! Fortunately it’s easy to avoid these make-you-look-tired traps. Here are the five common mistakes many women make (and how to avoid them).</p> <p><strong>1. Overdoing the powder –</strong> Dull skin is synonymous with tired skin and an overly powdered complexion often emphasises that. Try skipping the matte foundation and powder combo and try either an illuminating liquid foundation or even a BB cream or tinted moisturiser which will highlight instead of camouflaging.</p> <p><strong>2. Going beige –</strong> Skipping colour on your face may seem the best way to detract attention away from a tired complexion but by embracing beige, you’re actually doing yourself a disservice. A completely neutral face looks lacklustre and a little bit flat. Try adding some definition and pop with a darker toned lippie or rosy hued blush to lift your face and add some colour. </p> <p><strong>3. Using the wrong concealer –</strong> Concealer is there to conceal. Unfortunately, the wrong shade can actually highlight that which you’re trying to cover. Try a creamy formula no more than one shade lighter than your natural skin tone. And always try out your shade in natural light as artificial light can disguise the true match.</p> <p><strong>4. Layering on the liner –</strong> While a smoky eye may be a classic look, if you’re looking less than fresh, it can come across as harsh and unflattering. Try skipping the black and grey shades in favour of navy or even dark brown, as they’ll help lift your eyes and add definition without darkness.</p> <p><strong>5. Forgetting to curl –</strong> Curling your lashes is one of the best ways to open up your whole eye area and help you look awake and alert. Unfortunately, it’s often the first thing we forget to do when tired. Try curling your lashes first, before applying the rest of your makeup and if you really want to amp up the result, use a heated eyelash curler.</p> <p><em>Images: Getty</em></p>

Beauty & Style

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Meet the revolutionary beauty brand who are keeping kindness in mind

<p dir="ltr">As the beauty market continues to be flooded with new products, new trends and new ingredients that claim to change your life, it's easy to get lost in the overwhelming choices. </p> <p dir="ltr">Due to all this noise, many beauty consumers are trying to unveil the honest truth about what is going into their makeup and skincare, as priorities are shifting to include multi-use products to simplify daily beauty routines. </p> <p dir="ltr">On top of this, the majority of consumers are looking to support businesses that have a key focus on sustainability. </p> <p dir="ltr">Enter: The KIND Collective. </p> <p dir="ltr">This proudly Australian owned and female-operated business is on a mission to add conscious driven, multi-purpose cosmetic products to everyone’s beauty repertoire without breaking the bank. </p> <p dir="ltr">This is why The KIND Collective makes products that are more than just pretty to wear, but contain nourishing, native ingredients that have been mindfully selected.</p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CnjI1cZMCDm/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CnjI1cZMCDm/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by The KIND Collective (@thekindcollectiveaustralia)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p dir="ltr">The KIND Collective are also cruelty-free, 100% vegan and are PETA accredited, helping customers indulge in guilt-free beauty. </p> <p dir="ltr">This revolutionary brand has also joined more than 500 B Corp Certified Australian and New Zealand businesses, with only 20 companies being certified in the skin, nail and hair space. </p> <p dir="ltr">This certification assessment measures a business’s ongoing impact on its workers, community and suppliers, while ensuring it is delivering its best for both customers and the environment. </p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CrcJ1euShUa/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CrcJ1euShUa/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by The KIND Collective (@thekindcollectiveaustralia)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p dir="ltr">Brand co-founder Lynda Chapman believes it is important for businesses to do their part both locally and internationally but looking at their social and environmental impact.</p> <p dir="ltr">She said, “Today consumers are demanding more from businesses and I think that is an amazing thing! We have always believed that a business has the power to create positive change… and we are so excited to be part of this global movement of businesses that are using their power to be a force of good.” </p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/Ci6s1HaMGc6/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Ci6s1HaMGc6/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by The KIND Collective (@thekindcollectiveaustralia)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p dir="ltr">You can pick up all your makeup and skincare needs from The KIND Collective on their <a href="https://www.thekindcollectiveaustralia.com/collections/bundles">official website</a>, or in-store at <a href="https://www.priceline.com.au/brand/kind-cosmetics">Priceline</a>, <a href="https://www.bigw.com.au/health-beauty/makeup-cosmetics/c/6220?filter%5BbrandName%5D=Kind+Collective">Big W</a>, and select <a href="https://terrywhitechemmart.com.au/">Terry White</a> chemists. </p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image credits: Instagram</em></p>

Beauty & Style

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Have you been using expired beauty products this whole time? Here’s when to toss them

<p><strong>Let go of your loofah every few weeks</strong></p> <p>We all have our beauty besties. Whether it’s a love connection with brushes or a match made in heaven with mascara, saying goodbye is never easy. But it’s important – especially when we’re talking about spoilage, expiration dates, or skin infections. One potential hotbed of bacteria is the loofah you use in the shower, which collects your dead skin cells and literally redeposits them – dirt, grime, and all – right back onto your body the next time you use it. </p> <p>Be prepared to replace that body sponge every few weeks, or sooner if it smells or changes colour. Or skip the loofah entirely and just apply a cleanser with a chemical exfoliant, such as glycolic acid, using your fingers, advises cosmetic dermatologist, Dr Anjali Butani.</p> <p><strong>Mix up your mascara every three months</strong></p> <p>As much as you love your lengthening, feathering, dramatically lash-boosting mascara, you have only one pair of eyes and you can’t afford to lose them. That’s why you’ll need to chuck your mascara every three months, or face risks from contamination with bacteria and cold viruses. </p> <p>“Anything moist that’s touching wet parts of the body – eyes, lips, open skin – lasts a shorter period of time,” explains dermatologist, Dr Joshua Zeichner. A good rule to follow: if the product can’t be sterilised, toss it.</p> <p><strong>Swap your beauty sponge every three to four months</strong></p> <p>“If these disposable sponges are not replaced every few months, or if there are any colour changes, they could be a breeding ground for mould,” Dr Zeichner says. Always wash and thoroughly dry your beauty blender after each use to minimise the bacterial build-up that could cause breakouts. </p> <p>And definitely chuck the sponge sooner than three to four months if it starts to crack or crumble, or if you used it when you had a bad cold or an infection.</p> <p><strong>Re-up your eye cream every three months</strong></p> <p>Once you open a jar of any cosmetic product, the active ingredients are exposed to air and begin to break down. You’re also inviting contamination with every dip of your finger, which is probably not sterile even if you just washed it. </p> <p>Expect to switch out your eye cream every three months – unless it comes in a pump. Dr Zeichner says pumps are a better option because they can last several months to years due to the lower likelihood of contracting bacteria.</p> <p><strong>Turn over your toothbrush every three months</strong></p> <p>To keep up with your dental hygiene, you need your toothbrush to be in good working order. “When bristles are not standing straight anymore, they don’t clean as well, so you should throw it out,” says Dr Zeichner.</p> <p><strong>Kiss lip balm goodbye every six months to a year</strong></p> <p>Licensed aesthetician Jennifer Aimi, cautions lip balm lovers to part with their lip treatments every six months to a year, especially if they come in a pot that you dip your finger in (see eye cream). “Follow the instructions that come with the product,” Aimi urges, “and always resist the urge to share it – especially during cold season.”</p> <p><strong>Zap those zits for six months at a time </strong></p> <p>If your acne cream seems to be losing its pimple-fighting power, it may be a sign to pop it in the wastebasket. Dr Zeichner says that if the product is used past the expiration date, its active ingredients may not work as well.</p> <p><strong>Slather on that sunscreen for two years</strong></p> <p>Sunblock is not something you can take chances on, especially when you’re holidaying at the beach and there’s a real possibility of getting fried. Look to a sunscreen’s expiration date for guidance, or figure you’ll need to toss it two years after opening. </p> <p>But don’t abandon common sense. If a formula looks, smells, or feels different than when it was originally purchased, Dr Zeichner says to dump it.</p> <p><strong>Give your eyelash curler two to three years</strong></p> <p>It’s a good idea to consider replacing an eyelash curler every two to three years, according to Aimi. And if the rubber part starts to crack or look old, replace that part sooner. The good news is that they’re sold separately. Don’t forget to wipe down the curler with rubbing alcohol between uses.</p> <p><strong>Spritz on perfume for two years (or more)</strong></p> <p>The longevity of a perfume will depend on how you care for it over time. “Keep the bottle out of heat, humidity and sunlight,” Aimai says, “and don’t shake it, because that causes a chemical breakdown that can alter the scent quickly.” </p> <p>Expect to enjoy a fragrance for about two to three years, and obviously bin it sooner if the colour changes or if it starts to smell a tad like vinegar (obviously you won’t want to wear that).</p> <p><strong>Clip and snip for under five years</strong></p> <p>Even nail clippers and scissors have a shelf life – and it’s two to four years. Of course, the lifespan of these beauty necessities depends on their quality and how often you use them, according to beauty experts behind the brand Japonesque. Definitely don’t use tweezers, clippers or scissors if they’re nicked, dented, misshapen, misaligned, or rusted.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Getty Images</em></p> <p><em>This article originally appeared on <a href="https://www.readersdigest.co.nz/healthsmart/beauty/have-you-been-using-expired-beauty-products-this-whole-time-heres-when-to-toss-them?pages=1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Reader's Digest</a>. </em></p>

Beauty & Style

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The 4 beauty rules you’re allowed to break

<p>The world of beauty can be filled with tightly honoured rules and regulations. The problem is, half of these so called “non-negotiables” are actually a little bit of nonsense. Here are four beauty rules you can safely say sayonara to right now.</p> <ol> <li><strong>Avoid applying make-up with your fingers</strong> – While grubby fingers are always going to be a no no, clean fingers can be the perfect tools for applying your makeup. This is especially true for products like tinted moisturiser or cream blush. If you prefer using your fingers, look for products with an air proof  “nozzle” that “squirts” product onto your fingers/face and prevents the need to stick your fingers into a pot or tube. You’ll spread far less bacteria this way.</li> <li><strong>Apply blush to the apples of your cheeks</strong> – While this works for some people, others don’t flush naturally at the apple and hence, look a bit strange. The best place to apply blush is wherever you naturally flush. Try slightly below the apples and around for a light ‘sweep’ of colour.</li> <li><strong>Coloured eye shadowis only for teenagers</strong> – While glittery, fluro shades may be best left to the under 20 crowd, shades like navy, khaki, bronze and even a deep purple look fantastic on women of all ages. It’s all about finding a shade that suits your eye colour and that you feel comfortable in.</li> <li><strong>Always line your lips with lip liner</strong> – Nothing ages a face more than a heavily defined lip line with slightly worn out lip colour beneath. Lip liner, while useful for some occasions, doesn’t need to be an everyday essential. Try applying your chosen lip colour, blotting, then applying another coat for long lasting colour. If you really can’t part with your liner, try finding a shade that matches your natural lip colour. Use it to outline and colour in your lips then apply your lippie over the top.</li> </ol> <p><em>Image credits: Getty Images</em></p>

Beauty & Style

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Stop your makeup melting in the heat

<p>Party season and soaring temperatures mean one thing – melting makeup! Make sure you don’t end up looking like Alice Cooper this summer with our guide to a face that stays put even when the mercury rises.</p> <p><strong>Blank canvas </strong></p> <p>Exfoliate so that your face is ultra-smooth and products will stay on evenly, rather than migrating to one particularly dry area. </p> <p>After your usual moisturizer, make sure you apply SPF30+ or SPF50+ sunscreen. After all, there’s no point in going to all this trouble if you’re just going to end up looking like a tomato anyway! </p> <p>Then use a primer to take away shine. Another layer might seem counter-productive, but you can imagine what happens to make-up that’s applied to a slippery surface.</p> <p><strong>Dare to bare</strong></p> <p>Too much powder and sweat aren’t a good mix, literally. Powders can clog and looked caked when we start to ‘glow’ on scorching days. Similarly, long-lasting foundations can be too heavy and textured and look too much like make-up.</p> <p>Instead, opt for a light coverage foundation or illuminating tinted moisturiser to keep your look sheer and natural. </p> <p><strong>Cheeks </strong></p> <p>Using a brush, apply a cream blush to the apples of your cheeks. The beauty of a cream blush is that if it starts to budge, you can just blend it back in with your finger.</p> <p>Go easy on the bronzer.  Use a shade that’s just one shade darker than your natural skin tone and apply it only where the sun would naturally catch your face. </p> <p><strong>Eye</strong></p> <p>Smokey eyes soon become raccoon eyes in the heat, so keep the natural look going with a creamy, slightly shimmery eye shadow in a coppery shade. Stick-style shadows stay in place very well and are easy to reapply on-the-go. </p> <p>Liquid eyeliner is best avoided in the heat. Use a pencil or at least a waterproof formulation.</p> <p>To avoid your eyebrows melting, go for a light pencil rather than a wax, then finish your eyes with waterproof mascara. </p> <p><strong>Lips</strong></p> <p>Thick gloss can feel a bit gloopy when the temperatures soar, and a heavy lipstick will overwhelm the natural look on your eyes and cheeks. Try a light chubby-stick style lip stain or a tinted lip balm with SPF in it to provide sheer colour and sun protection in one.</p> <p><strong>Staying power</strong></p> <p>It’s really important to ‘set’ your face after you’ve applied it, but it’s a fine line between setting it and adding powder that’s just going to cake.</p> <p>Use a good quality translucent powder just on your T-zone. A little goes a long way so dab it on the back of your hand first, then apply from there.</p> <p>Finally, keep some blotting papers in your handbag. Blotting papers don’t just mattify shine- they actually soak up excess oil and sweat, so they’re perfect for hot days!</p> <p><em>Image credits: Getty Images</em></p>

Beauty & Style

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6 fixes for the most annoying beauty issues

<p>When beauty blunders pop up – think flat hair, pigmentation issues or yellow teeth – it’s likely that your first instinct is to try to get a handle on the issue immediately. Taking matters into your own hands can be quite effective – but only if you know how to do it correctly. Here we tell you exactly what to do.</p> <p><strong>The issue: Smudged lipstick</strong></p> <p><strong>The fix:</strong> The reason for smudged lipstick usually stems from your lips being dry or flakey before you apply your lippie. You need an ideal surface to start with. So, how do you get one? First, grab your toothbrush and lightly rub it over your lips to gently exfoliate any flakes. Then, apply a thin layer of hydrating primer – the one you use on your face will do the trick – to remove moisture and flatten fine lines so the surface of your lips is smooth and ready for colour. </p> <p>Fill in your lips with liner in the same shade as your lipstick, and dab on a couple thin coats of your lipstick. Finally, set your look by blotting lightly with a tissue and using a large make-up brush to lightly dust a thin layer of powder over your lips.</p> <p><strong>The issue: Flat hair</strong></p> <p><strong>The fix:</strong> Whether you have thick or thin hair, at one point or another I am sure we can all say we’ve suffered from hair that just doesn’t sit how you want to it too. Furthermore, a do that just looks lifeless. If flat hair is a concern for you, you’ll want to try a root-lifting blow-drying trick. </p> <p>First, work a palm full of mousse from your roots through to the ends, then flip your head over and dry your hair upside down and away from the scalp. Hair should be slightly damp before you flip it back up. Voila, volume!</p> <p><strong>The issue: Hair breakage</strong></p> <p><strong>The fix:</strong> Try as you might to care for your hair with the right products and washing it every two days or so, there are some other factors that can wreak havoc to your locks – like hair breakage. To avoid this, there are a few things you can do. For instance, after a shower, gently squeeze and blot the hair (rather than rubbing) with an old cotton T-shirt instead of a towel. It'll still soak up excess moisture, but won't cause breakage. When its time to comb, remember this: Being rough can cause the cuticle of the hair to fray, exposing the fragile inner shaft and making it more likely to snap. </p> <p>Detangle with a wide-tooth comb, working your way up from the end of your hair, using the least amount of strokes as possible. And if you like to tie your hair back, use a gentle tie, like a smooth, all-fabric one. The pressure of a super-tight band around a ponytail can wear away at your hair’s cuticle and cause the strands to break.</p> <p><strong>The issue: Fading hair color</strong></p> <p><strong>The fix:</strong> If you splash out and get your hair colour done at the salon, chances are you’ll want to ensure it lasts as long as possible. Annoyingly, there are some factors that are out of your control. For instance, the water that comes out of your showerhead often contains minerals like copper and chemicals like chlorine that can alter your hair’s hue. </p> <p>Some people like to have a purifying showerhead filter installed. Failing that, use an at-home glaze or gloss like John Frieda's Colour Refreshing Gloss to add high-wattage shine and boost the hue, like a topcoat does for nail polish.</p> <p><strong>The Issue: Brown spots</strong></p> <p><strong>The fix:</strong> Skin pigmentation is an extremely pesky beauty concerns. And getting rid of brown spots entirely is a long-term project that calls for diligent use of brightening products. But if you're looking for quick a fix, artfully applied make-up is your best option. </p> <p>First, dab concealer that's one or two shades lighter than your foundation onto the spot with a concealer brush, then follow with a dot of foundation that exactly matches your skin tone, and blend it well for a seamless look.</p> <p><strong>The issue: Yellow teeth</strong></p> <p><strong>The fix:</strong> Luckily, booking in for teeth whitening with your dentist isn’t your only option when it comes to teeth whitening. Brushing with a paste made of baking soda and water a few times a month removes superficial staining and whitens teeth by a shade or two. </p> <p>Just don't do it more frequently than that, as baking soda is too abrasive for your everyday brush. For an immediate fix, lipsticks with blue undertones can also make teeth appear brighter. </p> <p><em>Image credits: Getty Images</em></p>

Beauty & Style

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The correct way to store beauty products

<p>To keep your coveted beauty products working their best for longer, try these beauty storing tips.</p> <p><strong>Face wash –</strong> It may be convenient, but storing your scrubs and cleansers in the shower can damage them. The product will take in moisture which can turn them into a breeding ground for bacteria or mould.</p> <p><strong>Skin creams –</strong> Skin creams should be kept out of the bathroom altogether. The humidity can damage them just as the shower damages your cleansers. Keep them in your bedroom away from the window.</p> <p><strong>Fragrances –</strong> Fragrances should always be stored away from direct sunlight, as heat and sunshine can cause them to go off.</p> <p><strong>Nail Polish –</strong> Storing your nail polish upright in the fridge can help keep your lacquers lasting to their fullest potential.</p> <p><strong>Powder make up –</strong> Try to keep your blushes and powders out of the bathroom as the change in humidity and temperature can negatively affect their make up.</p> <p><strong>Brushes –</strong> Store your make up brushes out of direct sunlight, as sunlight can cause their fibres to wear. The same goes for heat and humidity, which can cause them to become caked. Try rolling them up in a make up brush bag.</p> <p><strong>Lipstick –</strong> Store your lipsticks in the fridge with your nail polishes to help them last longer.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Getty Images </em></p>

Beauty & Style

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13 tricks to make your makeup last all day, according to pros

<p><strong>Start with a good base</strong></p> <p>Prepping your skin before you apply makeup is key, says makeup artist Lucy Halperin. Start by washing your face so it’s sparkling clean, then apply a quick face mask – Halperin loves REN Flash Rinse 1 Minute Facial, which does its job in a mere 60 seconds – before applying moisturiser. “The skin is plump, it’s moisturised, and it’s even-toned,” she says. “I end up putting on less foundation on than I would.”</p> <p><strong>Prime your face</strong></p> <p>Even if you’re using a product with built-in primer like BB cream or tinted moisturiser, starting with a primer will even out the texture of your skin and keep your makeup in place, says Jessica Mae, founder, creative director and makeup artist of WarPaint International Beauty Agency. “Putting primer down first gives an additional layer of something to hold on to,” she says. Pick one to match your skin type: a smoothing one for large pores or fine lines, a mattifying one for oily faces, or a hydrating one for dry skin.</p> <p><strong>Apply with a brush </strong></p> <p>No matter how tempted you are to ignore your brushes and apply foundation with your fingers, this has to be a hands-off process if you want your look to stay. Otherwise the oil from your fingers could transfer to your face, and you’ll use more product than you need, Mae says. “Brushes apply the product evenly, which is the key to longevity of it,” she says. “You aren’t having a thicker layer on one side vs thinner on the other. You’ll have consistency with how the natural oils of your face mix with the product.”</p> <p><strong>Apply in layers</strong></p> <p>Use a light hand to apply powder blushes and bronzers. “Sweep it lightly and layer it on,” Halperin says. “Really blend it in.” Smudging away any harsh lines will make it less obvious if your makeup does start to melt away, she says.</p> <p><strong>Prep your eyes</strong></p> <p>An eye cream will help get rid of dark circles and leave you ready for concealer. Halperin suggests Clinique Even Better Eyes, which has a metal applicator that cools the skin while you apply it. “It really smooths out the skin,” she says. But only apply under your eye – if you put it on your eyelids, the moisture will cause your eyeshadow to slip into your creases, Mae says.</p> <p><strong>Pick the right eye primer</strong></p> <p>You may have heard concealer is a good substitute for eye primer, but Mae says she’s found that isn’t the case. “Concealer is usually creamy in consistency, which is more emollient,” she says. “If you’re using it on the eyelid, it can cause creasing and cause eye shadow to not blend as well.” She says the best results come from a product specifically designed to prime eyes.</p> <p><strong>Choose waterproof eyeliner</strong></p> <p>For a long-lasting liner, opt for a waterproof formula, or use a regular one and go over it with a powder of the same colour to set it, Halperin says. If your eyes start to get moist, put a bit of powder underneath to keep a runny mess from forming, she recommends.</p> <p><strong>Or skip the eyeliner</strong></p> <p>If you’re notorious for runny eyeliner, sometimes the best strategy is to stop working against nature. “If someone’s eye is waterlogged, just skip it,” Halperin says. “Just use waterproof mascara to accentuate the lashes.”</p> <p><strong>Find the right mascara</strong></p> <p>Mascaras tend to be personal, and finding the right formula for you will help you get a lasting wear. People with watery eyes should opt for waterproof, but other than that, it’s trial and error, Mae says. “Get samples sizes from your favourite makeup counter and try a few to find the perfect one that works for you,” she says. To avoid ruining your makeup before you’re even done applying, avoid getting mascara transfer on your eyelids. Mae recommends starting with bottom lashes and let them dry before adding product to the top.</p> <p><strong>Use lip liner as a base</strong></p> <p>A lot of lipsticks marketed as long-lasting can be drying, Halperin says. Start by filling in your lips with lip liner before applying your lipstick, which will give a waxiness that the lipstick can grip on. “It gives it a longevity because the lips have already been based with that colour,” Halperin says.</p> <p><strong>Lock in your lip colour</strong></p> <p>After applying lipstick, Mae suggests laying a tissue on your lips, then lightly dusting translucent powder over the tissue to seal in the colour. “It acts as a setting powder for lipstick,” she says.</p> <p><strong>Set your makeup</strong></p> <p>Once you’ve finished your look, use a setting spray to lock it in place. Mae likes to use setting spray after applying foundation, then applying powder after it’s dried, finishing the rest of her makeup, and adding with one more layer of setting spray. “As you layer the products, it lasts longer,” she says. “It creates a barrier between the natural skin and the product.” Between skin cream and a moisturising primer, you’ll already have plenty of hydration, so choose a setting spray that doesn’t moisturise – any more could cause your makeup to slip, Mae says.</p> <p><strong>Keep your hands off</strong></p> <p>Don’t let the rest of your day ruin the hard work you put in to your makeup. “Avoiding touching your facing as much as you can will help keep makeup on longer,” Mae says. That means to stop resting your hand on your face and holding your phone against your cheek. If you’re acne-prone, try cleaning bacteria off your work phone and cell phone regularly to prevent breakouts, Mae says.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Getty Images</em></p> <p><em>This article originally appeared on <a href="https://www.readersdigest.co.nz/healthsmart/beauty/13-tricks-to-make-your-makeup-last-all-day-according-to-pros?pages=1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Reader's Digest</a>. </em></p>

Beauty & Style

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Forget plastic surgery! These 7 makeup tricks could completely transform your features

<p><strong>Nose contouring instead of a nose job</strong></p> <p>If you find your nose too big, too wide, or too something else, get ready to transform it with contouring. For the uninitiated, contouring is the process of strategically placing bright concealer or highlighter on areas you want to catch light, making them more pronounced, and darker products on places where you want to create shadows, making them less noticeable. </p> <p>There are specific contouring techniques for each nose shape, but in every case, you’ll want to apply concealer that’s two shades lighter than your skin tone to the bridge of your nose, and a greyish-brown or dark taupe colour (a powder or liquid) to cover bumps, wide nostrils, or hook shapes. Always blend the light and dark colours into place using a beauty blender sponge or a rechargeable makeup brush, which evenly disperses granules of makeup in thin, even layers for an airbrush-like finish. The results are like an instant nose job – no surgery required!</p> <p><strong>Strategic eyeliner instead of an eye lift</strong></p> <p>Oh, the wonders of a good eyeliner. Whether your eyes are too small, too big, too down-turned or too something else, applying eyeliner in the proper style and colour is the perfect way to visibly alter their shape. To open up the eyes, adding white liner to the lower lash line creates an optical illusion as it acts as a continuation of your eyes, making them look bigger. </p> <p>For down-turned eyes, nothing works better than a reverse cat eye in black liner. For hooded lids, apply smokey eyeliner to enhance the outer corners for the illusion of lift.</p> <p><strong>Shading cheekbones instead of fillers</strong></p> <p>Women have been turning to pricey injectable fillers to fake supermodel cheekbones, but there’s a much easier – and cheaper – way. For this no-fuss three-step process, all you need is your trusty contour kit (foundation that is two shades lighter than your skin tone, plus a base that is two shades darker), which you will use to outline and highlight the apples of your cheeks. </p> <p>First apply the one-shade lighter cream foundation on your cheekbones to draw light; then apply the two-shades darker base below the cheekbones to help those areas recede. Finish with a pop of pink or peach on the apples of your cheeks, and dab a few drops of liquid highlighter at the top of cheekbones. Blend, et voila – Hollywood cheekbones.</p> <p><strong>Smoothing foundation instead of botox</strong></p> <p>Many foundations are prone to caking, cracking and flaking, which are likely to make any wrinkles and blemishes more noticeable instead of concealing them. If you want your face to look younger, one of the easiest ways is by smoothing skin. </p> <p>That means starting with a primer, which smooths the canvas of your face, like a painter would spackle and prime walls before applying colour. Follow with a satin foundation for a silky smooth, practically Photoshopped face.</p> <p><strong>Overlining lips instead of injectable plumpers</strong></p> <p>Less is definitely more here, but this tiny adjustment will make a huge difference in the appearance of your lips. The trick is to first apply a neutral-coloured, matte lip liner all over your lips; then trace slightly outside the lines. Don’t venture more than a few millimetres beyond your natural lip line, as that looks too obvious (and a little scary). </p> <p>You can also strategically choose the areas you want to overline, like the cupid’s bow or bottom lip instead of the entire rim. Once you’ve overlined, apply your favourite matte lipstick not only to your lips, but onto the overlined area as well. A matte finish will hide the line you’ve added, whereas shiny lipstick emphasises it.</p> <p><strong>Chisel your chin with powder instead of surgery</strong></p> <p>If your jawline isn’t quite as sharp as you’d like, shaping powder is an easy way to get more definition. Take a greyish-brown powder (nothing too orange) and apply it along your jaw line from behind your ear all the way down to the tip of your chin. </p> <p>Repeat this application on the other side of your jaw. Blend the powder down your neck so that there aren’t any noticeable lines or colour differences. You’ll absolutely love the look of your sharp new bone structure.</p> <p><strong>Slim your silhouette</strong></p> <p>Though some celebrities manage to rock a round face, the rest of us can feel insecure about so-called chipmunk cheeks. A great way to slim your face is to use a contour stick and bronzer to hollow out the cheeks, then apply blush and highlighter above the bronzer to make your cheekbones more pronounced. </p> <p>This will not only elongate your face shape, but will give you those model-like chiselled cheeks.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Getty Images</em></p> <p><em>This article originally appeared on <a href="https://www.readersdigest.co.nz/healthsmart/beauty/forget-plastic-surgery-these-7-makeup-tricks-could-completely-transform-your-features" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Reader's Digest</a>.</em></p>

Beauty & Style

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The biggest beauty trends this year

<p dir="ltr">We’re already halfway through the year, and a new study has ranked the beauty trends that have been the biggest hits for 2022 so far.</p> <p dir="ltr">The study, conducted by <a href="https://heydiscount.co.uk/consumer-research/the-biggest-2022-skincare-and-beauty-trends-most-popular-beauty-trends-of-2022-revealed" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Hey Discount</a>, analysed views on TikTok videos, Instagram hashtags and web searches to compile the list, which ranges from experimental makeup looks to simplifying skincare routines.</p> <p dir="ltr">Without further ado, here are the top ten beauty trends for 2022, as ranked by Hey Discount.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>1. Retinol</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">Skincare has been a major focus in 2022, and retinol is one of the products that has taken social media by storm.</p> <p dir="ltr">A derivative of vitamin A, retinol has been used for decades but has seen a surge in popularity that has resulted in it appearing in an array of popular serums and creams.</p> <p dir="ltr">Though the benefits vary from person to person, they generally include a reduction in fine lines and the appearance of blemishes, improved collagen production and the correction of pigmentation issues.</p> <p dir="ltr">According to the study, the hashtag #retinol garnered 1.2 billion views on TikTok and was used in 635,767 posts on Instagram.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>2. Graphic liner</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">The basic eyeliner trends of 2021 have been overtaken by a resurgence in sixties and seventies styles, with graphic liner being worn by celebrities such as Kylie Jenner and Gigi Hadid.</p> <p dir="ltr">In comparison to the previously popular, perfectly symmetrical cat-eye look, graphic liner is a beginner-friendly option that emphasises creativity and unique designs over perfection.</p> <p dir="ltr">Under the hashtag #graphicliner, the study found there were one billion TikTok views and 655,325 posts on Instagram.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>3. Gua sha</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">The traditional Chinese practice of Gua sha, meaning ‘to scrape petechiae (red or purple spots on skin caused by minor bleeding from blood capillaries)’, is often used to treat chronic pain, reduce puffiness in skin and help with lymphatic drainage.</p> <p dir="ltr">Though it has been practised since the 1300’s during the rule of the Ming dynasty, it has only recently become a popular trend and has skyrocketed to the fore of the beauty world due to social media.</p> <p dir="ltr">The study found that the hashtag #guasha has been viewed 976.9 million times on TikTok and used in 502,093 posts on Instagram.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>The top 10 list</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">See the full list of the Top 10 Beauty Trends of 2022 rankings below:</p> <ol> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Retinol</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Graphic Liner</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Gua Sha</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">SPF</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">DIY Skincare</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Lip Scrub</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Ombre Lips</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Glass Skin</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Hyaluronic Acid</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Niacinamide</p> </li> </ol> <p><span id="docs-internal-guid-7aa16412-7fff-934f-7e6a-bae1b99c77f1"></span></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: Getty Images</em></p>

Beauty & Style

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The secret behind Lizzo’s long-lasting Met Gala makeup REVEALED

<p dir="ltr">The 2022 Met Gala has delivered some stunning looks, with celebrities donning <a href="https://www.oversixty.co.nz/lifestyle/beauty-style/all-the-most-controversial-and-stunning-looks-from-met-gala-2022" target="_blank" rel="noopener">show stopping pieces</a> in response to this year’s theme. </p> <p><span id="docs-internal-guid-d252c8f7-7fff-7251-d762-14621c1b8f96"></span></p> <p dir="ltr">Singer and rapper Lizzo was one of the many stars who went all-out on the night, wearing a black coat with golden, leafy embroidering, complemented by her glowing makeup and her $85,000 gold-plated flute, which she briefly played on the red carpet.</p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/CdFIicljFcU/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/CdFIicljFcU/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by MTV (@mtv)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p dir="ltr">But, playing a flute - or most other wind instruments - can pose some major challenges for makeup. With condensation caused by directing warm breath into a mouthpiece and the tendency for makeup to rub against said metal mouthpiece as you play, it creates a less-than-ideal environment for makeup to stay where it’s supposed to or stay on for long.</p> <p dir="ltr">While this isn’t a problem for anyone who isn’t a flautist, ensuring makeup stays where it belongs and lasts after eating, drinking, and while going about our day is an issue more of us can relate to.</p> <p dir="ltr">So what’s her secret?</p> <p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-62ac0951-7fff-93d2-8aef-9512e121cdde"></span></p> <p dir="ltr">According to Lizzo’s long-time makeup artist, Alexx Mayo, it’s all about keeping things dry.</p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CdE-nEGuKZ6/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CdE-nEGuKZ6/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by ALEXX MAYO (@iwantalexx)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p dir="ltr">In a 2019 interview with <em><a href="https://edit.sundayriley.com/lizzo-makeup-artist-alexx-mayo/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Sunday Edit</a></em>, Mayo revealed that making a “flute-proof lip” relies on a matte lipstick in a high-saturated colour.</p> <p dir="ltr">“There is something about the way her lips blow on the instrument to make a certain noise that they have to be drier. Her having any sort of cream or gloss on will affect how she blows air into the flute,” Mayo explained at the time.</p> <p dir="ltr">“To really make the flute-proof lip, we use a liquid matte lipstick, something that has a high saturated colour but dries down so she can eat, drink, play the flute and [we know] it is not going to go anywhere.”</p> <p dir="ltr">For the Met Gala, Mayo prepped Lizzo’s skin with Charlotte Tilbury products, including the brand’s <a href="https://www.charlottetilbury.com/au/product/charlottes-magic-cream-30ml" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Magic Cream</a>, <a href="https://www.charlottetilbury.com/au/product/travel-sized-magic-face-serum" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Magic Serum Crystal Elixir</a>, and <a href="https://www.charlottetilbury.com/au/product/collagen-superfusion-facial-oil-8ml" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Collagen Superfusion Facial Oil</a>.</p> <p dir="ltr">When it came to her deep purple lipstick, Mayo again explained how dryness and pigment came into play.</p> <p dir="ltr">“I used the Charlotte Tilbury <a href="https://www.charlottetilbury.com/au/product/lip-cheat-berry-naughty" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Lip Cheat pencil in Bad Romance</a> to shape and fill in the lip entirely,” Mayo told InStyle. “I like to start on a well-hydrated lip that has been blotted to remove any excess oil for a super long-lasting application.</p> <p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-49017e27-7fff-b353-1779-f6a3ad7d04ed"></span></p> <p dir="ltr">“Next, I used Charlotte’s <a href="https://www.charlottetilbury.com/au/product/matte-revolution-festival-magic" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Matte Revolution Lipstick in Festival Magic</a> with a precision lip brush to fill in the entire lip. Blot once again and apply to seal in the saturation.”</p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CdEzOvisTMX/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CdEzOvisTMX/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Lizzo (@lizzobeeating)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p dir="ltr">Charlotte Tilbury’s range of deluxe beauty products has had its praises sung by a growing number of fans and was the go-to for a number of celebrities at the Met Gala, including Blake Lively, who reportedly debuted a yet-unreleased bronzer according to <em><a href="https://www.allure.com/story/met-gala-2022-blake-lively-charlotte-tilbury-bronzer" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Allure</a></em>.</p> <p dir="ltr">Though its high praises come with an equally high price-tag - with Lizzo’s look costing about $AUD 264 from the brand’s website - you can still achieve a long-wearing look with Mayo’s words of wisdom and the appropriate lippie. </p> <p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-3ed8d54c-7fff-cc49-b4be-97b40a8af7f5"></span></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: Getty Images</em></p>

Beauty & Style

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How safe is permanent makeup?

<p><strong>The rise of permanent makeup</strong></p> <p>Big, bushy eyebrows have been popular for a while now but unless you’re genetically blessed, following this trend may mean spending a lot of time and money plucking, shaping, gelling, colouring, and drawing on those cute caterpillars.</p> <p>One efficient solution many people turn to is microblading, a type of semi-permanent makeup that uses tattoo techniques to give you your ideal brows, no daily products necessary.</p> <p>This type of procedure – which can last for years, but not forever – can also be done to semi-permanently apply many types of makeup. Sound like a dream? Here’s everything you need to know if you’re considering getting it done.</p> <p><strong>Cosmetic vs paramedical</strong></p> <p>There are two types of micropigmentation procedures, commonly known as ‘permanent makeup’. Paramedical permanent makeup is done to reconstruct a body part after surgery or an injury – like getting realistic nipples tattooed on reconstructed breasts after a mastectomy or covering the scar left from a cleft palate surgery.</p> <p>However, most permanent makeup is purely cosmetic and is usually done to enhance brows, eyes, and lips.</p> <p>You can also get things like freckles and beauty marks tattooed on, a hairline adjusted, or even get stretch marks camouflaged, says Genn Shaughnessy, a makeup artist experienced in doing permanent makeup, professional movie and TV stylist, and founder of The Backstage Stylist.</p> <p>Eyebrow enhancements – microblading, machine shading, and ombré brows – are the most popular type of permanent makeup these days but lip liner and shading, and subtle eyeliner are also popular, she says.</p> <p>Costs can vary widely but generally range from $50 for a small touch-up to $1000 for a full face.</p> <p><strong>It’s not a regular tattoo</strong></p> <p>Permanent makeup uses pigment instead of traditional tattoo ink. Pigments are a different formulation and are semi-permanent. They can last up to eight years for scalp micropigmentation and one to three years for brows, lips, and face, whereas tattoo ink is permanent.</p> <p>The technician uses a permanent makeup pen instead of a tattoo gun to apply the pigment. The pen is a rotary machine with needle cartridges. It doesn’t make the loud buzzing noise like a tattoo gun and clients generally find it more comfortable, Shaughnessy says.</p> <p>Unlike a normal tattoo, the goal of both types of permanent makeup is to look realistic and not call attention to the art itself. Done right, you shouldn’t even notice that you’re looking at a tattoo.</p> <p><strong>Is permanent makeup safe?</strong></p> <p>Although permanent makeup is generally quite safe, all types of tattoos come with some health risks so it’s important to weigh the pros and cons before deciding to do it, says dermatologist, Dr Howard Sobel.</p> <p>“Don’t do it to follow a trend, ask yourself why you specifically want it or how it will add to your overall appearance,” he says.</p> <p><strong>Infection</strong></p> <p>There is always a chance for infection and bleeding when it comes to permanent makeup, as the needle is breaking the skin, says Dr Sobel.</p> <p><strong>Allergic reaction</strong></p> <p>If you have sensitive skin, there is a chance that you may experience a poor reaction to the pigments. This can cause inflammation, redness, pain, swelling, a rash, or itching at the site of the tattoo. Rarely it can cause a true allergic reaction, usually to something in the dye, resulting in hives or anaphylactic shock.</p> <p><strong>Scarring</strong></p> <p>All tattoos can cause permanent scarring.</p> <p>Some people are prone to keloids – a type of lumpy scar caused by excess protein as a healing response to an injury – and your body may see the tattoo as an “injury,” adds Dr Sobel.</p> <p>Keloids are benign but are often unsightly and your face is probably the last place you want to have one. If you know you’re prone to them, avoid getting permanent makeup.</p> <p><strong>Injuries</strong></p> <p>Permanent makeup can cause a range of injuries from the pigments, the technique, or the equipment used, or from a mistake or accident, says Dr Sobel.</p> <p>These can be slight, like loss of eyelashes or eyebrow hair, but can also be more serious like an injury to your eyeball or eyelid, cuts, bruises, or an ectropion – a condition where your eyelid turns inside out.</p> <p><strong>Pain</strong></p> <p>This procedure is typically less painful than a regular tattoo but that doesn’t mean it’s painless. Some clients find the sensation to be painful, irritating, frightening, or otherwise upsetting, says Dr Sobel. If you’re concerned about how you’ll react, ask for a consultation with the practitioner beforehand so you’ll know exactly what to expect.</p> <p><strong>Not everyone is a good candidate for permanent makeup</strong></p> <p>Dr Sobel advises you avoid getting any type of micropigmentation procedure:</p> <p>If you have any type of skin condition such as eczema, dermatitis or psoriasis.</p> <p>If you are on isotretinoin, a retinoid prescribed to treat severe acne. This medication thins the outer layer of the skin, making it dry and sensitive.</p> <p>If you have an autoimmune condition like lupus or inflammatory arthritis, or have a compromised immune system.</p> <p>If you have a current viral or bacterial skin infection or disease. It must be treated and resolved first.</p> <p>If you have a known allergy to metals or colorants.</p> <p><strong>What to look for in a practitioner</strong></p> <p>Much of the final result of permanent makeup depends on the person doing the procedure and the environment it’s done in.</p> <p>Practitioners can be aestheticians, physicians (like a dermatologist or plastic surgeon), tattoo artists, or makeup artists. Make sure the person you select has the same vision as you and let them know if you have any medical or skin conditions.</p> <p>Locations can vary widely from a standard tattoo parlour to a doctor’s office to a high-end boutique spa. Here’s what to look for before booking an appointment:</p> <p><strong>They are following regulations</strong></p> <p>“There are many aestheticians, tattoo artists, makeup artists, and physicians who offer micropigmentation procedures, so be sure to do prior research on these practitioners,” says Dr Sobel. It’s important to check that they are licensed and/or following all local regulations.</p> <p><strong>They are experienced</strong></p> <p>The most important factor in picking an artist isn’t necessarily what their job title is but rather how many times they’ve done it. Permanent makeup requires a different technique, equipment, and training than regular tattoos or other cosmetic procedures and it’s a learned skill. You don’t want your face to be their guinea pig.</p> <p><strong>They willingly provide pictures and client referrals</strong></p> <p>There’s a lot of artistry involved in these procedures and the outcome is semi-permanent so take time to research the technician and make sure their style and technique is what you’re looking for.</p> <p>“You want someone whose procedures give natural results,” says Dr Sobel. “Schedule a consultation first, and check their sites and social media for before and after pictures.”</p> <p><strong>The place is sparkling clean</strong></p> <p>You’re putting little holes in your skin which can make you more vulnerable to infections so cleanliness is very important. Before sitting down, check out the place.</p> <p>Does the space look clean? Do they follow all public health and safety protocols, including Covid-19 guidelines if applicable? Do they sanitise the workstation and all equipment between clients? If you have any doubts go somewhere else.</p> <p><strong>They use high-quality pigments</strong></p> <p>It doesn’t matter how good the makeup artists technical skills are if they use cheap pigments. Pigment quality varies based on manufacturers and one significant way they differ is in colour fastness, says Shaughnessy.</p> <p>“It’s important for me to use inks that have the same colour fastness, so all pigments in the ink fade at the same rate, and my clients won’t have salmon coloured brows after the first year,” she says.</p> <p><strong>How to take care of permanent makeup</strong></p> <p>You can get the best permanent makeup done by the best artist and it can still end up looking wonky or getting infected if you don’t take care of it properly.</p> <p><strong>Give it time</strong></p> <p>Most permanent makeup procedures take three to five days to heal. During this time you should avoid covering it with anything not recommended by the technician including lotions or other types of makeup. It also takes a few days to settle and for the inflammation to go down so you won’t see your full results right away.</p> <p><strong>Follow all after-care directions</strong></p> <p>Your artist should give you a printed set of after-care instructions about how to keep the area clean and covered while it heals. It will depend on which part you got inked, what procedure you had done, and other individual factors. Follow those instructions to the letter.</p> <p><strong>Don’t cover it with a dirty mask</strong></p> <p>A common mistake these days is covering a freshly tattooed face with a dirty face mask – a huge no-no as it can introduce bacteria into your wound and cause an infection or slow healing, says Shaughnessy. Make sure all face coverings are sterile.</p> <p><strong>Avoid tanning beds and the sun</strong></p> <p>Pigments will fade from sun exposure, tanning beds or any source of UV light. Avoid these until your makeup is healed and then wear sunscreen every time you go out, says Shaughnessy.</p> <p><strong>Schedule touch-ups</strong></p> <p>Permanent makeup should be touched up about every six weeks to keep it looking its best, says Shaughnessy.</p> <p>Getting your eyebrows filled in or your eyeliner put on with semi-permanent pigment can be an efficient and cost-effective solution for people who want to enhance or simply skip daily makeup application. Just make sure you are a good candidate for the procedure, find a good technician, and take care of it properly afterwards.</p> <p><em><span id="docs-internal-guid-f8df85ae-7fff-8c6b-351c-c248da638897">Written by Charlotte Hilton Andersen. This article first appeared in <a href="https://www.readersdigest.co.nz/healthsmart/beauty/how-safe-is-permanent-makeup" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Reader’s Digest</a>. For more of what you love from the world’s best-loved magazine, <a href="http://readersdigest.innovations.co.nz/c/readersdigestemailsubscribe?utm_source=over60&amp;utm_medium=articles&amp;utm_campaign=RDSUB&amp;keycode=WRA87V" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here’s our best subscription offer.</a></span></em></p> <p><em>Image: Getty Images</em></p>

Beauty & Style

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Is it safe to use makeup testers in cosmetics stores?

<p>A woman in the US is suing a cosmetics store because she claims that she <a href="http://www.tmz.com/2017/10/30/sephora-sued-woman-herpes-lipstick-samples/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">caught herpes from their lipstick tester</a>. In case you’re wondering if this is even possible, as a microbiologist, I can tell you that it most certainly is. And it’s not just herpes that can lurk in makeup.</p> <p>But let’s look at herpes first.</p> <p>This very common virus is mainly spread by skin-to-skin contact, kissing and sex, but it can also be transmitted in droplets of spit left by an infected person on towels, cups, cutlery and, yes, lipstick. Globally, it’s estimated that <a href="http://who.int/mediacentre/news/releases/2015/herpes/en/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">67% of people are infected with the Herpes simplex virus (HSV-1)</a>. But it’s a hidden enemy – a person doesn’t need to have visible signs of the virus to spread the infection. The virus lives in facial tissues where it can shed and spread.</p> <p>It doesn’t always show up on the skin as a blister immediately after it has infected a person, instead it can stay hidden and appear after a few months. Because of this, it’s impossible to say with certainty if the American woman caught herpes from this particular store tester, or elsewhere.</p> <p>Herpes causes blisters on the lips and around the mouth that can last up to ten days. Lipsticks and makeup brushes that touch these parts of the face can then spread the infection to other people.</p> <p>Fortunately, herpes is a fragile virus and typically only survives outside the body for ten seconds. But it can survive longer in warm and moist environments, such as in sweat. It can also survive between two to four hours on plastic, chrome and water, so there are lots of ways the virus can spread.</p> <p>There is no cure for a herpes infection, although treatments are available that will reduce the length of infection.</p> <figure class="align-center "><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/193000/original/file-20171102-26448-1rj3q51.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;fit=clip" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px" srcset="https://images.theconversation.com/files/193000/original/file-20171102-26448-1rj3q51.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=600&amp;h=375&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=1 600w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/193000/original/file-20171102-26448-1rj3q51.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=30&amp;auto=format&amp;w=600&amp;h=375&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=2 1200w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/193000/original/file-20171102-26448-1rj3q51.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=15&amp;auto=format&amp;w=600&amp;h=375&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=3 1800w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/193000/original/file-20171102-26448-1rj3q51.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;h=471&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=1 754w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/193000/original/file-20171102-26448-1rj3q51.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=30&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;h=471&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=2 1508w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/193000/original/file-20171102-26448-1rj3q51.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=15&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;h=471&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=3 2262w" alt="" /><figcaption><em><span class="caption">Herpes blisters.</span> <span class="attribution"><a class="source" href="https://www.shutterstock.com/download/confirm/317192864?src=pkZUIXuzGEd2PmbqE8wMGA-1-1&amp;size=medium_jpg" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Cherries/Shutterstock</a></span></em></figcaption></figure> <p><strong>An old problem</strong></p> <p>Microbiologists have known about the link between beauty products and pathogens since the mid-1940s when talcum powder contaminated with <em>Clostridium tetani</em> bacteria <a href="https://www.omicsonline.org/open-access/comparative-microbiological-study-between-traditional-and-modern-cosmetics-in-saudi-arabia-2329-6674-1000146.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">caused the death of a newborn baby</a>. Since the 1960s, contamination linked to other opportunistic pathogens, including <a href="https://www.omicsonline.org/open-access/comparative-microbiological-study-between-traditional-and-modern-cosmetics-in-saudi-arabia-2329-6674-1000146.php?aid=71067" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><em>Salmonella</em>, <em>Klebsiella pneumoniae</em> and <em>Pseudomonas aeruginosa</em></a>, has been reported by microbiologists across the globe.</p> <p>Cosmetic products contain preservatives to help slow down the growth of microbes, but they can become contaminated if people use non-sterile applicators or fingers to apply products, or if the products are poorly handled and stored; for example, products stored in warm and humid or damp conditions such as the bathroom.</p> <p>Makeup brushes also have the potential to act as suitable homes for bacteria to thrive. Often, beauty blenders and brushes are dampened to help the application of eyeshadows or foundation. But this environment has the potential to promote rapid bacterial growth.</p> <p>In 2015, it was reported that a <a href="http://www.medicaldaily.com/mrsa-bacteria-borrowed-makeup-brush-paralyzes-27-year-old-woman-328836" target="_blank" rel="noopener">27-year-old Australian woman became paralysed after contracting an MRSA infection</a> that attacked her spine. She used a brush to apply makeup that belonged to a friend who had a <em>Staphylococcus</em> infection on her face, and became contaminated with the organism.</p> <p><em>Staphylococcus</em> is a common bacteria that doesn’t typically cause harm and lives on the skin or in the nose. However, MRSA (Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus) is an antibiotic-resistant strain of <em>Staphylococcus.</em></p> <p><strong>Irreversible blindness</strong></p> <p>Mascara wands and eyeliners not only beautify the eyes, but can cause irritation and conjunctivitis, caused by both bacteria and viruses, including herpes simplex. Studies have revealed that <a href="https://www.researchgate.net/publication/18171778_Microbial_Contamination_in_Ocular_Cosmetics" target="_blank" rel="noopener">43% of eyeliners and mascara wands contain contaminants</a>. I know many friends who have been left with a “pink eye” after sharing mascara or using ancient mascara that has been sitting in their makeup bags.</p> <p>Symptoms of pink eye include redness, watery discharge and, in extreme cases, irreversible blindness.</p> <figure class="align-center "><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/193002/original/file-20171102-26478-159by18.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;fit=clip" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px" srcset="https://images.theconversation.com/files/193002/original/file-20171102-26478-159by18.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=600&amp;h=425&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=1 600w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/193002/original/file-20171102-26478-159by18.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=30&amp;auto=format&amp;w=600&amp;h=425&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=2 1200w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/193002/original/file-20171102-26478-159by18.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=15&amp;auto=format&amp;w=600&amp;h=425&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=3 1800w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/193002/original/file-20171102-26478-159by18.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;h=534&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=1 754w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/193002/original/file-20171102-26478-159by18.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=30&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;h=534&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=2 1508w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/193002/original/file-20171102-26478-159by18.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=15&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;h=534&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=3 2262w" alt="" /><figcaption><em><span class="caption">Eyelashes trap dirt and bacteria.</span> <span class="attribution"><a class="source" href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=608771" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Steve Jurvetson/Wikimedia Commons</a></span></em></figcaption></figure> <p>Lashes aren’t just there to make us look pretty, they serve to block out dirt and bacteria, and using products on the eyes can cause contamination of the product. With time, bacteria can build up in the cosmetic container increasing the risk of eye infection every time the product is used.</p> <p>If all of these horror stories tell us one thing, it’s stay away from sharing makeup products, both among your friends and especially in cosmetic stores. You just don’t know what infections other people could be carrying on their skin.</p> <p>Always keep your own cosmetic products clean and use single applicators where possible. You wouldn’t share your toothbrush with strangers, so why make an exception with your cosmetics?<!-- Below is The Conversation's page counter tag. Please DO NOT REMOVE. --><img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/86635/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /><!-- End of code. If you don't see any code above, please get new code from the Advanced tab after you click the republish button. The page counter does not collect any personal data. More info: https://theconversation.com/republishing-guidelines --></p> <p><em><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/amreen-bashir-419764" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Amreen Bashir</a>, Lecturer in Biomedical Science, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/aston-university-1107" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Aston University</a></em></p> <p><em>This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/is-it-safe-to-use-makeup-testers-in-cosmetics-stores-86635" target="_blank" rel="noopener">original article</a>.</em></p> <p><em>Image: Getty Images</em></p>

Beauty & Style

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Why over-cleansing can do more harm than good

<p dir="ltr">As we all know, taking off your makeup and sunscreen at the end of the day is a vital part of anyone’s skincare routine.</p><p dir="ltr">This process not only helps you feel fresh and relaxed to get a good night’s sleep, but is also an essential step to remove dirt, oil and dead skin cells that can lead to skin feeling congested, breakouts and lasting dullness. </p><p dir="ltr">While most people opt for a makeup remover, such as wipes or cleansing serums, it turns out this process could be doing more harm than good - especially with ageing skin. </p><p dir="ltr">According to Dr Mike Bell, Head of Science and Research for the holy grail UK skincare brand No7, “The over-cleansing of skin - sometimes with harsh high surfactant foaming cleansers or high alcohol-based toners - can be as harmful as the over-use of make-up or ineffective removal of make-up.” </p><p dir="ltr">“The skin’s essential barrier can become stripped of important ceramides and lipids, leaving it more sensitive and vulnerable to the environment."</p><p dir="ltr">Dr Bell’s solution? Turn to a cleanser that gets the job done, without all the harsh ingredients. </p><p dir="ltr">"Effective removal does rely on cleansers with mild but effective surfactants as well as the right type of emollient oils that together can dissolve even the most stubborn make-up.”</p><p dir="ltr">“Branched ester emollients like isononyl isononanoate are particularly effective as is dimethicone for dissolving some of the higher waterproof make-ups. These are combined with olive oil-based emulsifiers to take your make-up off seamlessly without harming the skin," he says. </p><p dir="ltr">Luckily, No7 offers a huge range of cleansers for all skin types, with tested formulas that will help remove makeup with ease, and not damage your skin in the process. </p><p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.priceline.com.au/no7-biodegradable-cleansing-wipes-30-wipes">No7 Biodegradable Cleansing Wipes</a> are a tested favourite, with the soft and gentle wipes helping to clear pores and banish all traces of impurity with ease. </p><p><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/02/cleansing-No7.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /></p><p dir="ltr"><em>Image credit: Supplied - No7</em></p><p><span id="docs-internal-guid-1437face-7fff-1449-341c-422b054a5c8a">For a gentle eye makeup remover that won’t leave behind traces of your favourite mascara, look no further than <a href="https://www.priceline.com.au/brand/no7/no7-radiant-results-revitalising-eye-make-up-remover-100-ml">No7 Radiant Results Revitalising Eye Make-Up Remover</a>.</span></p><p><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/02/eye-No7.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /></p><p dir="ltr"><em>Image credit: Supplied - No7</em></p><p dir="ltr">A gentle pre-cleanse is essential for any deep clean, with<a href="https://www.priceline.com.au/no7-radiant-results-revitalising-micellar-cleansing-water-200-ml"> No7 Radiant Results Revitalising Micellar Cleansing Water</a> working to capture make-up, impurities and pollutants, drawing them away from the skin in an instant. </p><p><span id="docs-internal-guid-a40944fa-7fff-b343-129f-ea8e24d6b524"><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/02/micellar-No7.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /></span></p><p dir="ltr"><em>Image credit: Supplied - No7</em></p><p dir="ltr">Available at <a href="https://www.priceline.com.au/brand/no7">Priceline</a>, these three holy grail products are available for under $20 each, making them a must have to everyone’s skincare regime. </p><p dir="ltr"><em>Image credits: Getty Images / No7</em><span id="docs-internal-guid-3157a1b6-7fff-2307-ef31-e41d41e5893c"></span></p>

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7 harmful beauty product ingredients that you should swap out

<p><strong>How harmful are your beauty products?</strong></p> <p><span>A study found there are as many as 126 potentially harmful ingredients in the average adult’s daily beauty routine. </span></p> <p><span>From synthetics in your shampoo to chemicals in your concealer, find out which ingredients you should swap out and why.</span></p> <p><strong>Fragrance</strong></p> <p>“If you only change one thing in your beauty routine, the ingredient you should avoid is fragrance,” says Lindsay Coulter, the David Suzuki Foundation’s resident green living expert.</p> <p>Fragrance isn’t just in colognes or perfumes; in fact, it’s added to everything from body wash to shampoo to face creams. Even unscented products can contain fragrance compounds that act as masking agents.</p> <p>“It shows up as one word [on the ingredients label], but it can be a concoction of hundreds of different ingredients,” Coulter explains.</p> <p>According to research published by the Canadian Cosmetic, Toiletry and Fragrance Association, these anonymous chemical compounds can trigger allergies and asthma, cause hormone disruption, and in many cases, are harmful to fish and other wildlife after they get washed down the drain.</p> <p>Not ready to give up smelling pretty? There are still plenty of green alternatives, says naturopath Jen Newell. “I recommend that people opt for products with essential oils or other natural scents,” Newell says.</p> <p><strong>Parabens</strong></p> <p><span>Parabens are preservatives that can be found in everything from makeup to moisturisers to fragrances. Problem is, numerous studies have shown that these chemicals – which are easily absorbed through the skin – have the potential to interfere with hormone function and have been linked with breast cancer. </span></p> <p><span>How do you rid your beauty routine of this particularly harmful ingredient? Keep an eye out for products that are labelled “paraben-free,” and study the ingredient list carefully, as these pesky preservatives can be listed in different ways, including “methylparaben” or “propylparaben.”</span></p> <p><strong>Triclosan</strong></p> <p>Triclosan is an antibacterial agent that can be found in antibacterial soaps, body washes, hand sanitisers, toothpaste and mouthwash.</p> <p>The issue with triclosan, Coulter says, is that it kills all bacteria – good and bad. Although this ingredient is not yet regulated in Australia, the Food and Drug Administration in the United States banned its use in September 2016 on the grounds that it could pose health risks, including bacterial resistance and hormonal effects.</p> <p>The good news? It’s easy to steer clear of this harmful ingredient, as triclosan is listed on product labels.</p> <p>For an alternative to triclosan, Coulter suggests alcohol-based sanitisers or old-fashioned castile soap and water.</p> <p><strong>Sodium lauryl sulphate</strong></p> <p><span>Sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS, sometimes also known as SLES) is a chemical additive that makes super-foamy bubbles and suds. </span></p> <p><span>It’s often listed as a main ingredient in soap, shampoo, face wash and dish soaps, says Coulter. The reason that SLS should be avoided is that it can be contaminated with ethylene oxide, which the International Agency for Research on Cancer lists as a known human carcinogen (cancer-causing chemical). </span></p> <p><span>Check your soaps for this ingredient before purchasing and don’t fret if the SLS-free product you try doesn’t produce a rich lather like your old shampoo or body wash. </span></p> <p><span>A lack of suds doesn’t mean it’s not doing its job, says Coulter; it simply means you’re skipping out on a harmful chemical.</span></p> <p><strong>Phthalates</strong></p> <p>Phthalates are commonly found in fragrance compounds, says Newell. Research suggests they can disrupt hormones during critical periods of human development (such as a baby’s development in utero) and they’ve also been associated with male infertility.</p> <p>If you’re having trouble identifying which products might contain harmful ingredients such as phthalates, Newell recommends downloading the Think Dirty App to your smartphone.</p> <p>It allows you to scan the bar codes of the products in your daily beauty regimen, and then assesses their degree of safety.</p> <p><strong>Oxybenzone</strong></p> <p><span>Oxybenzone is the active ingredient in many popular sunscreens, but Newell recommends avoiding it when possible – and for good reason. </span></p> <p><span>According to a study published in the </span><em>International Journal of Andrology</em><span>, oxybenzone has been linked to skin reactions and it may even disrupt hormones. </span></p> <p><span>There have also been studies indicating that when oxybenzone is exposed to sunlight it can form free radicals that cause skin cell damage. </span></p> <p><span>This doesn’t mean you should skip sunscreen altogether, of course. It’s easy to avoid this chemical if you stick with mineral-based zinc or titanium oxide sunscreens.</span></p> <p><strong>Petrolatum</strong></p> <p>Petrolatum or petroleum jelly is often used in moisturisers, lip balms and hair products because it acts as a moisture barrier and creates a sheen.</p> <p>The David Suzuki Foundation lists petrolatum as one of its “Dirty Dozen” harmful ingredients to avoid, as it can be contaminated with polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), which the European Union lists as a carcinogen.</p> <p>If you want to skip petrolatum just to be on the safe side, try organic coconut oil or shea butter to moisturise your skin.</p> <p>If you’re feeling overwhelmed when it comes to “greening” your beauty routine, begin the transition slowly. “Start with the products you use most often and then eventually replace those items that you only use every once in a while,” recommends Newell.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Getty Images</em></p> <p><em>This article originally appeared on <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.readersdigest.com.au/healthsmart/beauty/7-harmful-beauty-product-ingredients-that-you-should-swap-out" target="_blank">Reader's Digest</a>.</em></p>

Beauty & Style

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The must-have viral product for a perfect complexion

<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">A must-have beauty tool has gone viral on TikTok for helping people everywhere fix the problem of oily skin. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">An Indigenous makeup artist named Ash has discovered the hidden gem and shared the impressively shocking results, all while revealing the product’s price-tag is less than $10. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The Revlon Oil-absorbing Volcanic Roller mops up oil with one roll, without disturbing the placement or pigment of makeup. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">After rolling the stone roller over her face, Ash discovered a freshly matte look, with zero streaks in her makeup. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Sharing the video with her followers, the video has racked up over 1.2 million views, with many other beauty gurus also trying out the product for themselves. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Ash put the roller through a series of tests, including trying it out on a face full of makeup after a long day of work.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">"It's amazing what it can do visually, but longevity-wise I'm not entirely sure if I would use this but it's still amazing, I'll give you that, my God," she said.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">According to Revlon, their oil-absorbing roller is "made with real volcanic stone" because the stone is made of a porous material so it can soak up oil patches. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">For just $7.50 from </span><a href="https://www.chemistwarehouse.com.au/buy/99117/revlon-beauty-tool-volcanic-stone-facial-roller"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Chemist Warehouse</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, this simple product erases the need for blotting papers or powders, and is perfect to use on the go. </span></p> <p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Image credits: TikTok</span></em></p>

Beauty & Style