Byrdie

As the realization that shame, deep-seated stigmas, and general apathy toward women's healthcare and education continue to come to light (in what I can only describe as a misogynistic manipulation of legislation, among other things), we're all left searching for a way to empower ourselves and take control of our bodies. Rather than focus on the collection of people fighting for power over my flesh, I've decided to invest time in organizations that are working to improve wellness for women. Such is the case with The Chopra Center, a San Francisco–based treatment center that provides experiences, education, teacher trainings, and products meant to improve your health from a physical, emotional, and spiritual standpoint. Its mission is for women to take breast health into their own hands, and as such, has launched an Ayurvedic breast massage as part of its offerings. (It's the only wellness center in the nation to offer the holistic treatment on a large scale.) Having dealt with taking my own breast health into my own hands a few years back, the massage immediately peaked my interest. First, a little background: Ayurveda, a 5000-year-old healing wisdom tradition from India, teaches in order to maintain a state of balance, the whole person must be addressed—no part of the body or energy is excluded. Though, as you may probably have guessed, many healing practices overlook the breast area. "The conversation began while the Chopra Center spa was working on a study for breast cancer survivors to see if meditation, massage, and other daily practices like yoga and pranayam could help reduce the number of reoccurrences," explains Jennifer Johnson, the spa director of the Chopra Center and the creator of the massage. "Over years of work, we found that many women work through complicated issues with their breasts, confusion from oversexualizing, and shame carried through various belief systems, and also that women very rarely touch their breasts," says Johnson. "We also saw women confronting complicated emotions after recovery from breast surgeries—everything from biopsies, lumpectomies mastectomies, reconstruction, and augmentations. We have introduced the Ayurvedic breast massage to bring awareness back into the body and breast, to help women know what healthy tissue feels like so they can better recognize abnormalities early on, and discuss the best course of action with their healthcare provider. We are really excited to offer this innovative new treatment that we believe will change the conversation around breast health, which is a vital component on the path to total well-being," said Johnson. "Our Ayurvedic breast massage combines movement, breath and manual manipulation to provide lymphatic circulation to this part of the female body that wouldn't otherwise receive the lymphatic benefits of exercise." Below, she answers more of my questions.

"The Ayurvedic breast massage is one of the most effective and nourishing ways to maintain healthy breast tissue and musculature before potential issues arise—and a way to heal physically, emotionally, and spiritually after life-changing disease such as breast cancer" explains Johnson.

"First, we review medical referral and consent forms as well as discuss level of comfort and coverage draping for treatment. Throughout the massage, we use a combination of lymphatic strokes, active muscle techniques, and marma point therapy. Marma points are energy centers similar to acupressure points—we stimulate marma points that encourage flow of lymph and breast health. Massage starts from the sternum, then the diaphragm, then the shoulders to bring awareness of congestion or limitations in range of motion, then the breast tissue. While working on the breast, the therapist will show the client how they can do their own daily self-massage. Then, we finish with more massage to the neck and shoulders and marma point therapy." By keeping the healthy flow of lymph and blood, ideally for faster recovery, the massage also can minimize adhesions and scarring for better overall results and healing."

There are three key pillars for which the massage is helpful.

Lymphatic system and pain relief

"When healthy movement of the lymphatic fluid becomes restricted—whether from compromised health, surgeries, restrictive clothing, or even tense posture—toxins can accumulate and lead to disease. Exercise is effective at pumping lymph fluid around every part of the body, except the breast, where the flow is often restricted by workout clothing. The breast massage clears the lymphatic channels and ensures any toxins in the breast have a pathway to leave the body. In addition, by clearing up the lymphatic channels, pain is reduced in the breast as well as the entire body.

An improved range of motion

"Breast massage includes muscle release techniques to open up the shoulders and chest. In those who have had breast surgeries such as augmentation or reduction, this can restore range of motion that has been often severely restricted. This is also extremely beneficial for anyone who regularly sits at a desk, drives a vehicle, or works at a computer."

Increased "prana and life energy"

"In Ayurveda, Prana is the vital energy that gives life to all beings. When the flow of Prana is restricted, we may experience symptoms such as fatigue, unhappiness, or illness. Breast massage provides the vital function of opening up the flow of Prana in the chest, gently removing energetic blocks around the heart that might otherwise remain unaddressed. We often carry emotional burdens from traumatic experiences. By introducing targeted and intentional movement of the body, the Ayurvedic breast massage increases blood flow and activates endorphins—boosting mood and combating symptoms like depression and anxiety."

"In the massage itself, we work a lot on the neck and shoulders, which we can improve range of motion and posture. One thing to note is that the breast massage is more about supporting healthy breast tissue and less about specifically preventing disease, something which is also hard to prove since most clinical studies are about treating disease rather than preventing it. Also, it’s about paying more attention to a part of the body that is often ignored, so we can look at and support the body, mind and spirit comprehensively."

Next up: Four men tell us their body insecurities, and it's refreshingly honest.

"The Ayurvedic breast massage is beneficial for all women—healthy women, women who have been diagnosed with or are survivors of breast cancer, women who have fibrocystic breasts, and women who are recovering from breast augmentation or reduction, cardiac abnormalities, or chest pain. We encourage all women to make the breast massage a part of their comprehensive and preventative self-care routine. Men can also get the massage, as its benefits expand beyond the breast and to all parts of the body."

"The breast massage should be a supplement to other treatment and prevention measures. Clients need a referral from a California-licensed physician because we work in conjunction their primary healthcare providers to determine the best approach with their body, which is especially important for women who have had breast cancer or a breast surgery. We never massage active cancer centers and wait a minimum of six weeks after a woman’s procedure such as a mastectomy to do a massage.

"In order to perform this specialized therapy, the female massage therapists undergo additional extensive training of more than 125 hours in oncology and breast massage. Therapists provide a customized healing touch based on medical history, personal preference, and mind-body type, as well as a level of coverage that feels comfortable for the client, working with them through the massage. About 10% of the massage includes touching the actual breasts, and the nipples are never touched."

Most of us are know what constitutes good "sleep hygiene": total darkness, an electronics-free bedroom, and avoiding caffeine before bed are just a few of the (fairly obvious) basics. But as a chronic insomniac, I also know that the basics alone are often not enough—and that's why I felt compelled to check out a new sleep treatment at the Langham hotel's Chuan Spa in Pasadena. (That and the fact that I was not going to turn down a massage—full disclosure.)

Touted as a way to "take back your sleep," the Sweet Dreams Massage basically combines individually relaxing elements of acupressure, breathing, and aromatherapy, all with the idea that you can practice these kinds of rituals at home too. It ultimately served as a decidedly luxurious crash course in sleeping better—only snoozing during class is highly encouraged. The fact that I couldn't recall the details of the treatment afterward is a solid testament to how well it worked.

To jog my memory, I reached out to spa director Nicole Hester for her pointers on DIY'ing the treatment at home.

Rule of thumb: While you're winding down for the evening, treat your bedroom like a spa treatment room. That means no electronics, dim-to-dark lighting, and perhaps a little bit of quiet, relaxing music. "Your sleep space should be treated as a sanctuary," notes Hester.

Your first inclination might be to get warm and cozy, but studies show that we feel sleepier when our body temperature is on the cooler side. If you're someone who likes to bury themselves under a huge comforter all year round (like me), consider getting a small fan to put near your bed—it'll help keep you cool and offers some relaxing white noise.

A lot of people assume that their bed is the place to relieve tension when it's the ends, not the means. To fall faster into a deeper slumber, you'll want to de-stress your body ahead of time, says Hester. Spend the last five minutes before bedtime engaging in some light stretching as needed—these yoga poses are a great place to start.

Aromatherapy might seem gratuitous, but the science says otherwise: Certain scents are shown to markedly reduce cortisol, your body's stress hormone. "It helps induce relaxation and has been used for several years as a natural remedy to calm and soothe," says Hester.

As for choosing the right scent, that's your call. "The best advice I would give someone experimenting with essential oils is to simply try," says Hester. "Find what oil works best for you, and give it a shot. Most commonly used oils for sleep and relaxation include lavender, bergamot, or jasmine." Put a few drops in a diffuser, or take a whiff, and it's off to dreamland.

And more specifically, try to identify exactly where you're holding tension. "There are seven areas that hold stress in the body—Third Eye, temple, jaw, thoracic spine [the upper portion of your spine], Chest, abdomen, and sacrum [where your lower back meets your pelvis]," says Hester. "Paying extra attention to these zones will ensure a restful night's sleep."

That might mean putting a heating pad on your lower back if you sit all day at a desk or lightly massaging your upper back and shoulders. Or you can apply light pressure to one of those trigger points directly—if your head is swimming or you're subject to migraines, you might have success with lightly pressing your temples, for example.

"You'd be surprised as to how many people I encounter that have issues with breathing properly," says Hester—indeed, one of the elements that I loved (and remembered) about my treatment at Chuan was the guided deep breathing exercises, during which I could feel unwelcome thoughts melt away with every exhale.

It doesn't have to be complicated or woo-woo—just counting as you breathe will suffice. "The one I practice most is inhaling quietly through your nose for several seconds and exhaling completely through the mouth," says Hester. You might also try the 4-7-8 method: Inhale for four counts, hold your breath for seven, exhale for eight, and repeat until you're fast asleep.

Next up: Gold medal-winning gymnast Nastia Liukin shares what life is like after the Olympics.

With technology changing at an ever-increasing rate, it's easy to forget how far we've come in such a short period of time. According to a theory called Martec's Law, technology changes at a rapid rate, which accelerates exponentially each year. And with each change, our expectations increase. In other words, as better products come out, we get used to them quickly and then demand more. So rarely do we stop to appreciate what we already have.

Beauty inventions are no exception. As beauty reporters, we're on a perpetual hunt for the next genius skincare procedure or hair tool. But today we thought we'd do something a little different and take a look back at the beauty inventions of decades past.

What we ended up finding was utterly spellbinding… and a little bit freaky. According to old photographs, advertisements, and newspaper clippings, some of the beauty gadgets of the late 19th and early 20th centuries were utterly medieval. It really is impressive how far we've come in less than 100 years.

Curious? Keep scrolling to see 10 of the most fascinating (and often nightmare-inducing) beauty tools throughout history!

Era: 1928. The hair dryer was first invented by a French stylist in 1890, and even 30 years later, they looked like something from the dark ages. Handheld dryers also existed for at-home use, but at the time, they were clunky and dangerous. Hair dryer technology didn't really get good until the 1950s, when wattage improved (and safety regulations weren't set in place until the 1970s).

Era: 1966. According to an archived newspaper, this ice mask was used by Hollywood actresses to "refresh the face between takes without spoiling the makeup."

Era: 1935. The first electric "permanent wave machine" was introduced in London in 1909, and similar gadgets were used until acid perms were invented more than 60 years later. This apparatus called the "Gallia" worked by chemically moistening the before curling it for better, faster results.

Era: 1928. Think sheet masks are scary? How about this 1920s face mask meant to protect a user's face from the sun?

Era: 1936. According to advertisements from the era, this bizarre invention by New Yorker Isabella Gilbert consisted of a face-fitting spring that pressed two small knobs into the cheeks, intended to create a "fine set of dimples."

Era: 1932. Also known as the beauty calibrator, this nightmare-inducing device was created by Max Factor in the early 1930s. Its purpose? To take detailed measurements of a woman's face in order to identify her "flaws." With this information, she would be able to know exactly where and to apply corrective makeup. The product was designed primarily for Hollywood actors, but needless to say, it never caught on.

Era: 1924. We don't know whether to laugh or cry. This aluminum face mask was intended to induce sleep by forcing warm breath to the eyes.

Era: 1939. These conical plastic head-scratchers were briefly used by Canadian women to shield their faces from snowstorms.

Era: 1946. To perfect those '40s Hollywood ringlets, this spider-like contraption was used to dry each curled section individually.

Era: 1875. Behold the earliest gadget on this list, a flexible mask intended to "bleach" the skin, removing blemishes, age spots, impurities, and roughness to leave the skin "soft, clear, brilliant, and beautiful."

Some of our modern beauty devices are no less wacky. Shop a few of them below!

Do you think you would have tried any of these vintage beauty tools? Sound off in the comments below!

This story was published at an earlier date and has since been updated.

For many women, what was once thought of as an adolescent right of passage—acne—has actually still remained a problem well into adulthood. Those of us who still have acne-ridden skin know that it is an ongoing battle to not only treat the blemishes already on our faces but to prevent them from ever coming back.

Sometimes the best thing to do when fighting acne is to go back to basics, to go natural. We spoke to UMA Oils founder Shrankhla Holecek, S.W. Basics founder Adina Grigore, and celebrity facialist and founder of Joanna Vargas Salon, Joanna Vargas, about the natural remedies for acne. We asked them what ingredients should we be looking for, what can we do with the natural ingredients we've found, and what about these ingredients make them ideal for treating acne.

Scroll down to see what their picks.

"Technically baking soda and water soften blackheads and any clogged pores in the skin. It’s best for congested skin," says Vargas. She recommends a DIY baking soda mask.

"It's the best astringent in nature because it helps to balance the skin’s pH, making you both less oily and less dry," says Grigore. She warns that apple cider vinegar is very pungent and that you must always dilute it before using. "I recommend using a mixture of one part vinegar to four parts water. Apply to your face with cotton or a spritzer. No need to wash it off," she says.

According to Holecek, turmeric is a natural anti-inflammatory agent. She recommends it in gentle, exfoliating bases like chickpea flour, oat powders, or kaolin clay.

Holecek says honey is a soothing remedy for those pesky acne scars. For a DIY facial, she suggests mixing honey, aloe vera, one teaspoon of chickpea flour, and a pinch of turmeric to make a paste. Spread the paste on your face. Once you rinse off with cool water, use an ice cube on the skin for 30 seconds to treat a congested face.

"Fine-grain salt cleans deeply, removes dead skin cells, balances moisture, and pulls toxins from pores, making it especially great for preventing acne or quick treatments during flare-ups on the face and body," Grigore says. "The simplest way to use sea salt is to wet your face or body, put some salt on your wet hand so it sticks, then pat it gently onto your skin. You can leave it for a few minutes or rinse immediately. Just make sure not to scrub too hard—it is too abrasive by itself."

According to Grigore, tea tree oil is known as a "miracle antiseptic."

"It's renowned for its antibacterial, antimicrobial, and anti-fungal properties, making it an easy and effective spot treatment," she says. She suggests diluting tea tree oil in a little bit of extra virgin olive oil or organic jojoba oil and applying it directly on a zit.

Next up, read up the natural way to dye your hair.

Halloween isn't a big thing in France—it's celebrated occasionally by way of costume parties or stores using the holiday as a marketing ploy, but it isn't nearly as much of a spectacle as it is in the states. Though as French transplants have assimilated into American culture, so has their affinity for the spooky-fun holiday. And because we're admittedly fascinated by all things French, we were curious: What are French women planning to dress up as this year? From American staples to unexpected pop culture references, below are some points of inspiration from some of the coolest femmes around.

"I'm not the best at Halloween, I've been going as Natalie Portman's character in Closer every year simply because I own that pink wig. And by that I mean, I'll only wear the wig and call it a day. Halloween isn't really a thing back home, so I guess I never really clicked with it moving to New York City four years ago." — Clémence Polès, founder of Passerbuys

So tell us, what are you planning to be for Halloween? Sound off below!

"This year, I plan on dressing up as a feline. I always find the leopard print and color to be just a little sexy (without revealing too much). The colors are flattering if you still have a light tan. For my hair, I will go for a very au naturel style, with a light curl just to give some movement and volume. For my nails, I plan to wear a color from the natural nail-polish brand that I love these days named Sundays. The best part will be the shoes, ideally a pair of high-heeled suede brown boots (such as those that go slightly higher than the knee)." — Clémence von Mueffling, founder and editor of Beauty and Well Being

"Me and my roommate are going to dress up as each of our cats. My roommate is dressing up as our tuxedo cat, Koda, and I am dressing as our gray cat called Plastic Bag. I chose this costume because (and I am totally aware of how nuts this sounds) my cats are my little angels and I am so grateful for them. Also Plastic Bag is a very strange cat, so dressing as her should be fun.

"Since I'm going out for Halloween, I still want to make it look cool/easy to dance in, so I'm trying to figure out a way to keep the humor and also make it aesthetically pretty! I make all my costumes from scratch. I'll need a good pair of gray cat ears and lots of plastic bags and cellophane. I'm thinking I'll make a short skirt out of plastic bags and maybe a cellophane crop top? Still working out the details!" — Juliette G, MSA model

"It is undeniable that this year the French woman who has been dominating the media attention is Brigitte Macron, the wife of French President Emmanuel Macron. Like her or not, she has a very definite style, and we can be certain that her style/costume will be dominant this year, from her well known hairstyle to the length of her skirt. It will Brigitte Macronesque costume for sure." — Marie-Laure Fournier, president of French/New-Yorker agency Fournier PR + Consulting

"Another French icon left us not too long ago, Mireille Darc, who became famous for her satutuesque body and of course the dress that she wore in Le Grand Blond. Even Guy Laroche paid homage to her dress during Paris fashion week this year. I am pretty sure that we will see tons of long black open-back dresses this year with a blond wig; it is a sexy and easy look to achieve and any Francophile will recognize it. I recommend it especially to single girls because I have rarely seen a dress having such an effect on any object of your desire." — Fournier

"Traditinally in France, Halloween costumes were more about the darker, ghoulish theme. This year, there will be a departure and a focus on strong female characters from current films and pop culture such as Wonder Woman, as well as French historical characters such as Esmeralda from The Hunchback of Notre Dame and even playful contemporary ones like Audrey Tatou from Amelie." — Valerie Giraud founder of Antonym Cosmetics

"My girlfriends from France will come over to celebrate Halloween with me. We are going to find outfits to be the Spice Girls. We don’t know where we are getting our costumes from yet, but we might make them ourselves from some clothes and stuff we already have. We love the Spice Girls, so that is why! After, we are going to try to find a nice party to show off our outfits." — Delphine Breyne, MSA model

Here at Byrdie, we staunchly believe there's no such thing as a quick-fix or miracle cure-all when it comes to weight loss and improving the health of our metabolism. After all, not only can crash diets, crazy exercise routines, and even scary things like diuretics hurt our bodies over time, they can also deprive us of so many good things in life: the freedom to indulge in a treat with friends, choosing (without guilt) to stay in and relax on a lazy Sunday morning… You get the idea.

However, there are certain takeaways when it comes to our dietary habits that are helpful to know and can transform into mindful, energizing rituals to keep our brain, energy, and good vibes humming, which we love. And since we do go through phases of taking better care of ourselves than others, sometimes handy tips, tricks, and recipes from leading nutritionists can be an important tool to have in our repertoire.

So although we'll gladly enjoy our fall-themed cocktails and our favorites slices of seasonal pie, we're also on board with having some system-supporting smoothies on hand to keep our body's natural fat-burning mechanism (aka our metabolism) in tip-top shape. For some expert advice and much-needed inspiration, we asked five top nutritionists for their favorite fat-burning smoothie recipes. Keep reading for their tried-and-true favorites!

According to Farah Fahad, MS, RD, a dietitian and founder of The Farah Effect, this smoothie's high protein content (which comes from the hemp-based protein powder) makes it great for fat-burning. Plus, an extra dose of fiber via dates and chia seeds helps excrete cholesterol (a type of fat) for an extra metabolism boost. The cherry on top? Tigernuts, a great source of prebiotics and an essential for a healthy microbiome, which in turn, fuels a humming metabolism.

Ingredients:

3 Medjool dates, stones removed
1 handful of washed spinach
1 1/2 tsp. of ground tigernuts (if you can’t find these at your grocery store, you can purchase them online)
1/4 of a cucumber
1/2 of a small avocado
1-2 tsp. of hemp protein powder
1 1/2 tsp. Maca powder
2 tsp. of cashew butter
1 1/2 cup of rice milk or any nut milk (you can adjust amount for desired consistency)
1 1/2 tsp. of chia seeds (soak the chia seeds for at least 10 to 15 min in 5 tbsp. of rice or other nut milk, or pre-soak overnight)

Directions:

Add all ingredients to a high-powered blender and blend until smooth. Farah also tells us you can buy cashew butter or even make your own!

Next up: Five nutritionist-approved ways to boost your metabolism naturally.

A nutritional powerhouse, this fat-burning smoothie from celebrity nutritionist Elissa Goodman, IHN, contains some of the best superfoods when it comes to fast, efficient metabolism. "A compound in matcha called EGCG has been shown to boost metabolism and stop the growth of fat cells while MCT oil is like a super fuel for your cells. It boosts fat burning and increases mental clarity," shes says.

Ingredients:

1 cup of unsweetened cashew or almond milk
1 tsp. organic matcha powder
1 tbsp. organic MCT oil or coconut oil
1 tbsp. of cashew/almond butter
1 tbsp. hemp seeds or powder
1 scoop Amazing Grass Green Superfood Powder
1 cup frozen organic wild blueberries or mixed berries
5 drops Omica liquid vanilla stevia (optional)
1/2 banana (optional, for extra creaminess)
Handful of ice cubes

Directions:

Add all ingredients to a high-powered blender and blend until smooth.

Despite their convenience, smoothies can quickly transform into sneaky sugar bombs (thanks to high-glycemic additions like fruit juice, syrups, and even an overload of fruit). And over time, too much sugar can inhibit fat burn instead of accelerating it. Registered dietician Lisa Moskovitz tells us a DIY recipe you make at home will not only help keep calories and sugar in check, but will allow you to pack in fat-burning sources of protein (Greek yogurt), fiber (berries and chia seeds), and other metabolism-enhancing superfoods like matcha. Her go-to recipe is below.

Ingredients:

1/2 cup almond milk
3 oz. of unsweetened Greek yogurt
1 tsp. matcha powder
1/2 medium banana
1 tsp. chia seeds
1/2 cup organic strawberries

Directions:

Add all ingredients to a high-powered blender and blend until smooth.

Short and sweet, this simple yet tasty smoothie recipe from Maria Bella, founder of Top Balance Nutrition in NYC, capitalizes on fiber from the banana (it also lends a natural touch of sweetness) and fat-burning turmeric, which thanks to its high content of curcumin, is great for a buzzing metabolism. "Turmeric has been found to be a natural fat burner, and I'm always adding it to recipes." Plus, it's incredibly versatile as Bella tells us it pairs well with both sweet and savory foods.

Ingredients:

1 medium banana, peeled and roughly chopped
1 cup unsweetened almond milk
1/4 tsp. ground turmeric
1/2 tsp. vanilla extract

Directions:

Add all ingredients to a high-powered blender and blend until smooth.

Variation: During hot summer days, you can add 4 to 6 ice cubes to make it cool and refreshing.

"For weight loss and fat burning, this is my go-to smoothie recipe," explains Amy Shapiro MS, RD, CDN, who is the founder and director of Real Nutrition based in NYC. The trick, she says, is to limit fruit to about 1/4 cup (which lowers the overall carb content) while balancing other important macro-nutrients like protein, fat, and fiber. With quality additions like cinnamon (it stabilizes blood sugar!) avocado, chia seeds, and plant-based protein powder, she swears this recipe keeps her full for a good three hours.

Ingredients:

1 cup unsweetened almond milk
1/4 cup frozen wild blueberries
1–2 handfuls frozen or fresh spinach, kale or cauliflower (frozen only)
1 tbsp. chia seeds
1/4 avocado
1 inch fresh ginger root
1/4 tsp. turmeric (dried)
1/4 tsp. cinnamon
1 serving protein powder (I use MoonJuice or Garden of Life Organic Plant Protein)

Directions:

Add all ingredients to a high-powered blender and blend until smooth.

Fact: Retinol reigns supreme as one of skincare's star ingredients. You've probably seen this little word written on countless product labels time and time again and wondered, What is this stuff? Same. To clear up the confusion, retinol is essentially a vitamin A derivative used in skincare products for anti-aging and acne purposes. It's been proven to be an acne-fighting ingredient that diminishes the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, brown spots, and sun spots. It's known to work fast and effectively, which is why you see it in so many products. (To get a full breakdown of this hero ingredient, take a look at our detailed retinol guide.)

We're huge advocates of incorporating retinol serums into your routine to nourish and hydrate your skin with hardworking ingredients. Celebrity facialist Renée Rouleau once told us exactly how to apply retinol serum, which should be to your entire face and neck. "Wait three minutes and apply a small amount of moisturizer, if needed," says Rouleau. "Use the retinol serum for two nights on, one night off, alternating with an exfoliating acid serum and a nourishing treatment serum.” This schedule will deeply penetrate your skin.

There are a few retinol serums we can stand behind at Byrdie. We also tapped top dermatologists to share their all-time favorites. Find out the most game-changing serums below and why they're winners below.

"When working with patients, I look for products that will not create additional irritation that can aggravate acne," says Carl Thornfeldt, MD, founder of Epionce skincare. "My favorite serum product is Epionce Intense Defense Serum, which contains botanical sources of multiple vitamins including A, B, C, D and E that have the same action of a retinol. It has been clinically proven to achieve even better results than a retinol because it gives skin all the vitamins it needs to look healthy and does not cause additional irritation. It's the only product that includes all 23 vitamins the skin uses for normal and therapeutic function."

"I love Murad Advanced Acne and Wrinkle Reducer because it contains retinol, salicylic, and glycolic acids," explains Kenneth Howe, MD, of Wexler Dermatology. "The retinol modulates skin maturation and shedding, which prevents the formation of the plugs that cause acne. This is a medication-like effect. The addition of the glycolic and salicylic acid furthers shedding via loosening of the bonds between clumped dead skin cells, which is a chemical effect."

"Retinoids are the absolute backbone of an acne treatment since they treat acne by de-clogging pores," says Melissa Levin, MD. "They also work to normalize skin cell turnover and act as an anti-inflammatory. Furthermore, retinoids have been proven to improve skin discoloration and texture and, therefore, restores the skin from prior outbreaks. While not all retinoids are the same, Differin Gel was designed with tolerability in mind, so it is a great starter retinoid or a retinoid for more sensitive skin. This powerful gel is the first FDA-approved acne-treating retinoid that is over the counter. It's an absolute game changer for several reasons; retinoids were previously only available through a prescription, and retinoids are the first line treatment for mild, moderate, and severe acne. For the past decades, the two major acne treatments we had over the counter were salicylic acid, which is highly useful in exfoliating and declogging pores, and benzoyl peroxide, great as an antibacterial agent." Dermatologist Joshua Zeichner, MD, is also a fan of this gel. "Differin 0.1% gel is my go-to over-the-counter retinoid for acne. It helps reduce inflammation and prevent skin cells from sticking within the follicles and blocking pores. Keeping the "pipes" clear will treat pimples you currently have and prevent new ones from occurring," says Zeichner.

"This advance serum is an excellent spot treatment for lesions that are inflamed and enlarging," explains Charlene DeHaven, MD. "It contains high levels of wound healers for acne lesions, anti-inflammatories, and antioxidants from botanical sources. The strong serum is also packed with vitamins A, C, and E and olive leaf extract."

"Retinoid helps to combat the early signs of aging such as skin elasticity and the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles," notes Dr. Julie Russak, MD. "Most importantly, it decreases our cellular turn over rate for signs of dark spots and sun damage. I tell my patients to start using it as early in life as possible to gain the benefits. Women will have to take a break from retinoids during their childbearing age, and I try to educate my patients early on to get into the habit of applying retinol as early as their 20s before they have to take a break. There are different forms of retinoids, retinol being the most tolerable and pure form of vitamin A. Having sensitive skin that easily gets irritated by products, I love using Revision's Retinol Complete, which has humectant molecules that hydrate but also contain antioxidants in its formulation. This makes the retinol product much more tolerable and decrease any redness or dryness that can be associated with other retinol products. If I had to do one step less in my night routine (who doesn’t want to get to bed quicker at night), it would be to have an all-in-one product with antioxidants & retinol, as antioxidants hep boost your skins repair mechanism.”

"While retinol is the most powerful anti-aging ingredient that we have on the market, it's not quite as powerful as prescription strength retinoids in treating acne," explains Dr. Zeichner. "That being said retinal is a great option for women with aging and acne prone skin. I recommend Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Serum because it contains stabilized retinol and the formulation won't break you out."

"This retinol-based formula is so gentle, it won't harm even the most sensitive skin," notes Zeichner.

You know how some retinol products are so strong so they sting and burn? We're all for this lightweight formula because its effective, sans irritation. You'll wake up in the morning with silky smooth skin from its hydrating properties that work together to present a smoother skin surface and diminish fine lines.

The key is to pay attention to which type of retinol your skin responds to the best. It's the reason Renée Rouleau formulated this gentle serum—if you want a legitimate dose of retinol without harsh side effects, this resurfacing serum is for you. It's meant to work up to eight hours during your beauty sleep to fight off sun damage, brown spots, fine lines, large pores and more.

This little orange bottle, which happens to be vegan and cruelty free, will give your skin the ultimate glow-up. Infused with plant-based antioxidant ferulic acid and retinol, it does everything from protecting your skin against sun damage to smoothing out rough patches.

It's Thursday morning. That means that our beds have been made, our faces have been washed, and our coffee has been brewed. Now it's go-time. We all but run to our computers, power them on, and head directly to Sephora's website, because its highly anticipated Weekly Wow Sale has just dropped. (If you don't already have a running note in your calendar or a persistent reminder on your phone, then what are you waiting for?)

This week it's all about the power of the palette. Super-popular brands like Anastasia Beverly Hills, CoverFX, and Sephora Collection each have a different makeup palette on sale for 50% off the normal retail price. Yes, that's half off, people! Whether you're lusting after a new highlight, contour, or lip palette, there's something that's sure to catch your eye. Keep scrolling to the see the three discounted products at Sephora this week.

This 100% vegan contour kit includes four shades ranging from lightest to darkest—a highlighter, illuminator, light contour, and dark contour. There are also five different iterations of the palette, each housing a different spectrum of shades to suit different skin tones and undertones. They're each cream formulas that blend into the skin for a natural and believable finish. Now can we talk about how perfect this is for traveling? It's chic and compact, which makes it ideal for a quick touch-up.

This matte lip color palette was basically created to uncover the makeup artist inside each of us. It houses 18 different colors that you are free to mix and meld into unique and customized lipsticks. The brand makes it easy with an included mixing plate, a dual-ended brush, and a spatula tool. Seriously, how fun does this look to play with? We want it now.

Finally, we have this unique highlight palette. In the middle are three buildable and blendable highlighters ranging in shades. On either side are two high-shine glosses that you can use alone for a dewy, shimmer-free highlight, or layer over the top of the other shades for extra intensity. You can also choose between the warm palette (pictured here) or the cool palette, which includes whites, pinks, and lilacs.

Which palette are you going to go with? Let us know in the comments below. Then see the new beauty brand that sells every single product for only $3 a piece.

Opening Image: Anastasia Beverly Hills

It’s only been a few days since we were graced with the news of another celebrity makeup collection. Supermodel Gigi Hadid revealed that she has been in collaboration with Maybelline, creating a special makeup collection that will hit drugstore aisles nationwide. This isn’t the first time Hadid has been linked to Maybelline, as she has been the face of the drugstore brand for around two years now, appearing in major ad campaigns. Other famous models, like Victoria's Secret angel Adriana Lima, have also fronted Maybelline promotions, though they've never personally collaborated on a collection. Because of this, we were as surprised as we were delighted to hear the news. But what was even more surprising was learning that the first product from the highly anticipated collaboration debuts incredibly soon. When we say soon, we mean tomorrow. (They didn't waste any time, did they?) Keep scrolling to see the first glimpse at the first Gigi Hadid x Maybelline makeup product.

Maybelline posted this short video to their official Instagram account, revealing glances of the first Hadid-approved product.

Next, see all three palettes that are discounted 50% during this week's Sephora sale.

Shortly thereafter, Maybelline posted this video, showing Hadid looking into the palette's mirror and seemingly applying a lip product. Then it cuts to an image of what appears to be various shades of concealer and a cream lip product. Are there separate Jetsetter palettes, one for eyes and one for face? Or, does a single palette enclose all of these products? Gigi, we have questions!

The latter seems more likely, judging by the name. We're guessing it houses a number of multi-use products, including shadows, concealer, and lip and cheek tint. Since it's called the Jetsetter, we're assuming it's designed to be an entire look in a single palette, perfect for stashing away in a carry-on or suitcase.

Finally, we were graced with this adorable boomerang video of Hadid holding the compact palette, and our anticipation hit an all-time high. We officially can't wait for it's release tomorrow. Rest assured that we'll be the first in line to see it in all of its glory IRL. Until then, we're gathering up our favorite Maybelline products to pair it with, like our beloved Super Stay Matte Ink Lip Color ($8) and the Face Studio Master Strobing Stick ($8).

Glossier recently revealed the next product it's preparing to launch: a fragrance called Glossier You. This was met with enthusiasm from its loyal fan base, who likes the brand's emphasis on anything modern and inclusive. This announcement came on the heels of Glossier's shower gel and moisturizer launch, the Body Hero Duo ($35), proving that it has a lot in the works over at Glossier HQ.

Even though the product hasn't officially launched yet, you can stock up now since the company is sending out a free sample with every single order that's placed through its website. So get to your computer and purchase that new bottle of Milky Jelly Cleanser ($18) you've been meaning to get, because why not? A free sneak peek of a highly anticipated fragrance will be included.

Glossier posted this image on Instagram, captioning it "We're proud to announce that our debut fragrance, Glossier You, launches soon. Every order through Glossier.com will receive a sample beginning TODAY." The photo shows a small Glossier eau de parfum spritzer housed in the brand's namesake plastic bag packaging.

In conversation with Vogue, the brand's CEO Emily Weiss described the fragrance as equal parts fresh, floral, and musky. "I want it to smell like your boyfriend's neck after he has been wearing cologne for eight hours," she said. In other words, we expect it will be a subtle and androgynous scent that you and your significant other can wear.

We're still not sure when the official launch date is since the brand has been vague about when we can expect to see it IRL. However, it did say "soon" on Instagram post, so hopefully that means within the month. Either way, we have to go. We're putting together a new Glossier order ASAP.

Next, see a sneak peek of the new palette that Gigi Hadid has created in partnership with Maybelline.

The word post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation looks and sounds scary. When we first heard the term being thrown around, we thought it was some sort of super hybrid of pigmentation that would need a procedure to treat. Luckily, that is not the case.

"Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation is a type of discoloration," says dermatologist Ranella Hirsch, MD. "You’ve had something that has caused inflammation of the skin one way or another and the consequence of which it leaves behind some pigment."

Hirsch goes on to further explain that post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation is an encompassing term to describe what happens to the skin after an inflammatory event. "You know when you look at someone's legs and can instantly tell they've been attacked by mosquitoes? The discoloration—which is different for every skin tone—is post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation." Other causes for inflammation are the standard ones we're used to: acne, rosacea, sunburn, burns, and scratches.

So what do we do about treating it? She suggests looking for products that treat redness (especially for those with a pale or fair complexion) and products that contain antioxidants (for all skin types). She says anything we would normally use to even out skin tone, brighten complexion, and treat pigmentation works just as good. We've rounded up products that we think are up for the task.

Scroll down to see what products can treat post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

This serum has a gel-like consistency that gently lifts dead skin cells away. Made with salicylic acid and antioxidant raspberry fruit extract, it also loosens up sebum to clear out clogged pores and soothes any damaged skin.

Vitamin C is a known brightening agent and no other serum really utilizes the ingredient like this cult-classic from SkinCeuticals. The vitamin C here helps neutralize free radicals your skin has from sun exposure and

This moisturizer contains an extract called calming feverfew, which reduces the redness of irritated skin. It also gives your skin sun protection.

This serum uses colloidal sulfar to soothe and calm irritated skin and ginger as an anti-redness agent. Its antioxidant boosters also protect the skin form environmental aggressors.

This serum contains hydroquinone, a pigment lightener that addresses the causes of hyperpigmentation. It also contains glycolic acid, which lifts dead skin cells so that active ingredients can penetrate the skin and work their magic.

Next up, read up on the products that will cut your morning routine in half.

Selena Gomez has dealt with an intimidating set of health issues over the course of her life. Earlier this year, she revealed that she was diagnosed with lupus, which is an autoimmune disease that causes her to experience anxiety and panic, among other sometimes debilitating effects. To combat this, she has buckled down on her diet and fitness routine, incorporating healthy foods into her diet and carving out time for working out. Then, just last month, Gomez took to Instagram to open up about a recent surgery that she underwent. In the post, she explained that she had undergone a kidney transplant, after her own was ailing from the effects of the autoimmune disease. Since then, she's been pictured out and about, attending fashion week and serving us her signature chic hair and makeup moments, so it appears that she's back on the mend. According to MSN, though, Gomez isn't taking her health for granted. Each morning, she wakes up and eats a portion of a popular health food, in order to bolster her well-being. Keep scrolling to see which food Gomez eats each and every morning.

Her go-to breakfast food is none other than pure ginger. She either eats a piece of the root completely raw, or she takes a shot of it in liquid form, since there are so many purported health benefits. One study published in The Journal of Preventative Medicine, found that ginger works like an antioxidant and exhibits anti-inflammatory behavior. Another study shows that it might have effectively prevent certain diseases of the body. In traditional Chinese medicine, ginger has historically been used for these purposes. Pretty cool, right? "It's killing everything inside! All of the bad things," she told James Corden during her Carpool Karaoke appearance while they drank a shot of liquid ginger. "You're not going to get sick!" Aside from its wellness benefits, ginger also has been shown to offer amazing beauty benefits, namely for your skin and hair. It's been shown to fade scars, combat dandruff, and promote hair growth, among other things. Be right back, we have to go brew ourselves a cup of ginger tea (we'll be using Yogi Organic Ginger Tea Packets $4).

Go to MSN to read the full article. Next, read all about how Selena Gomez achieves the perfect wet-look hairstyle.

Usually, when we think of the Kardashian’s, we think of pure extravagance—after all, Kim Kardashian did call out a $455 face cream as her favorite moisturizing product. They’re known to wear designer clothes, embark on luxurious family vacations, and drive cars that cost an incomprehensible amount of money. Despite their lavish lifestyle, sometimes they surprise us with inexpensive product recommendations that are actually really accessible. For example, Kim recently opened up about the $9 nude nail polish she uses religiously. According to Glamour, Khloe Kardashian also has a budget-friendly product recommendation up her sleeve. As she revealed on her website, she loves a specific skincare product that she swears plumps and moisturizes her skin. The best part is that the product in question is only $10 on Amazon…for a pack of $5. Seriously: that's a deal even for drugstore standards. Keep scrolling to see one of Khloe Kardashian’s favorite face masks.

"I'll give myself a facial with this collagen-infused version the night before a big shoot so that my skin is plump and moisturized,” Kardashian wrote on her website. The mask is formulated with gold, which is thought to slow down collagen and elastin breakdown, so your face feels firm and plump. It also has hydrating ingredients and "sculpting" qualities as well, which help the face to appear smoother and more contoured. The exact ingredients are hard to come by online, though Amazon reviewers certainly seem to agree with Kardashian's approval. One Amazon user writes that the mask is "so relaxing and quite a good value. My facialist charges A FORTUNE for this exact product. Tightens my skin right up and I feel like a million dollars after 15 minutes with this." Another user commented "I love love love this item. I used it and found that my skin looked more vitalized and younger. I would definitely suggest this product to others and I am getting more to give as gifts." With these reviews, along with the Khloé Kardashian stamp of approval, we're definitely going to try it out for ourselves. After all, we don't have much to lose, just $10 for all five (we still can't believe it).

Head over to Glamour to read the full article. Then, see five fat-burning smoothie recipes that nutritionists always recommend to their clients.

Even though a stuffy nose is rarely the most debilitating part of a sickness, it's straight up the most annoying. After all, blowing your nose incessantly and breathing through your half-open mouth isn't ideal or particularly flattering for that matter. You sit there, crumpled up tissues in hand, reflecting on all the times that you took your smooth and clear inhalations for granted. We know. We've been there.

According to Mia Finkelston, MD, a board-certified family physician who treats patients virtually via LiveHealth Online, a stuffy nose results from general swelling and inflammation in the mucus membranes. She calls this a "normal bodily function," though it "causes increased mucus production," and usually results from a cold or upper-respiratory infection. Luckily, there are a number of small actions you can take to rid this major nuisance from your daily life. Keep reading to see all the things that Finkelston recommends you do to alleviate your stuffy nose.

If you're sick, you likely try to keep yourself as warm and comfortable as possible. While exposing yourself to cool air might seem counterintuitive, Finkelston says it can be crazy effective. "Cool air does wonders to shrink the membranes and decrease swelling," she says. "This shrinkage can be temporary, but it will help to alleviate some of the pressure, and it will help you breathe a bit easier." Think of it like putting an ice pack on a swollen lip. The cool temperature alleviates the size and puffiness of the area, allowing you to feel more comfortable.

Finkelston says this could be as simple as walking outside into the cool autumn air. If you live somewhere warm though, "run a cool mist vaporizer, or just stick your head in the freezer for a few seconds." It's that easy.

Next, read all about the unexpected thing you can do to boost the effectiveness of your flu shot.

Nasal spray is a must for a persistent stuffy nose. "If you need medication, I recommend staying away from any multisymptom cold reliever, and instead spray a nasal spray twice in each nostril two times a day for one week, and then once a day for another week," Finkelston says. "Make sure you are bending over so your nose points toward your toes to administer the spray properly." The salt water in nasal spray decreases the swelling of the mucus membrane, letting congestion out and air in.

"Another method that helps to effectively treat a stuffy nose is to prop yourself up in bed or on a recliner," Finkelston says. "This helps to decrease the swelling. Plus, if there is mucus dripping down the back of your throat (which is inevitable), it will make it less likely to cause a cough as it collects in your upper airway." Try layering a couple of pillows behind your back to keep you laying comfortably upright. Or try a bedrest pillow. These are usually stuffed more firmly than traditional pillows, making it easy to keep upright yet relaxed while you're laying in bed.

This advice might sound counterproductive, but it's not. Finkelston says that by using over-the-counter antihistamines, you could be exacerbating the effects of your stuffy nose, and possibly even causing it to hang around longer. "I also discourage antihistamines, these can dry your nasal passages and can turn mucus into glue cement—this can lead to sinusitis." Instead reach for an over-the-counter mucus thinner or medicated vapor rub. The former helps to cure your runny nose faster, while the latter "can work wonders to help you breathe easier at night."

Short for health, beauty, fitness, HBFIT is the brainchild of DJ, fitness lover, and all-around cool girl Hannah Bronfman and your guide to living a healthier life. The HBFITteam will be writing about health, fitness, and Halloween candy on Byrdie, and you can head over to HBFIT to see more fall-themed beauty stories. Today, the HBFIT team is sharing a delicious recipe for vegan pumpkin muffins. File under "fall recipes to master stat."

Fall is in the air, and we’re loving all of the delicious seasonal flavors here at HBFIT. Filled with our favorite seasonal spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice, these vegan pumpkin muffins are perfectly sweet and fluffy without any eggs or dairy. We can’t wait for you guys to try out this simple recipe and dig into these vegan treats. The muffins will just give you another reason to love pumpkin season. Be careful—we can never just eat one. Ingredients: 1 3/4 cups flour1 tbsp. baking powder1 tsp. cinnamon1/2 tsp. ginger1/3 tsp. cloves2/3 cups soy milk2 tbsp. molasses1 3/4 cup sugar1 1/4 tsp. salt1/2 tsp. nutmeg1/2 tsp. allspice1 cup pumpkin purée1/2 cup canola oil. Directions: Sift together dry ingredients in a small bowl. Mix wet ingredients in a separate bowl using a hand mixer. Add dry ingredients to wet and mix thoroughly using mixer. Spray six-count large muffin pan with any oil spray or use cupcake liners. Bake at 325°F degrees for 30 to 35 minutes, rotating once during baking. Insert toothpick near the middle. If it comes out clean, it is ready. Cool completely, and store in an airtight container. Serve and enjoy!

Click over to HBFIT to see all the ways you can use pumpkin in your beauty routine. Then be sure to check out our editorial director's fall beauty routine.

Tomayto, tomahto. Potayto, potahto. Blotting powder vs. blotting papers. What's the difference? Well, when it comes to purpose, there really isn't one. Regardless of name and pronunciation, a tomayto and a tomahto are the exact same thing. And though blotting powder and blotting papers do differ in physical form, they tackle one and the same problem: the unwanted oil that has a knack for creeping into our creases as soon as the clock strikes noon.

But the two monikers are slightly confusing. After all, there are so many powder-based products on the market—finishing powders, setting powders, etc. So why add another one to the mix? And why bestow it with a name so similar to blotting papers: a product that has served us well, thus far? (We've been toting the addictive sheets in our bags since the earliest, oiliest days of puberty.)

To be honest, there isn't an earth-shattering difference between blotting papers and powders. And after trying almost every formulation there is, trust me when I say it largely comes down to personal preference. However, if we're going to split hairs, blotting powder is typically known for its totally translucent (or virtually) undetectable tint and a specifically designed formulation to nix oil and grease, presenting a diffused, poreless complexion, instead. Let's call it the more stable sister to finishing powders and the less detectable cousin to setting varieties.

Blotting papers, on the other hand, come in a package and are known and loved for their midday convenience: zero mess and zero detectable finish—simply sopping up the oil and leaving nothing in its place. So, we're sorry to disappoint, but when it comes to blotting powder vs. blotting paper, there isn't a right answer—it completely comes to personal preference, and what works best for your daily makeup aesthetic. However, we did think it would be nice to share six of our favorite products. Blotting powder vs. blotting paper: Here are three of each that we think are best in class when it comes to banishing oil.

Packaged in aesthetically pleasing teal, (we have a weakness for a product's outward appearance), these blotting papers from whimsical Korean cosmetic brand Too Cool For School are as fun to use as they are effective. Infused with mulberry, they sop up sebum without disturbing the look of carefully applied makeup. Even cooler? The package comes with a dainty sponge and adhesive pads—all you have to do is take one of the papers, stick it to the sponge, and blot!

Unbleached hemp pulp and wood fibers keep skin naturally free of oil and dirt. Expertly suited to wick shine on the go, these blotting papers only need a few pats to make your complexion look healthy, balanced, and clear of any unwanted shine.

If you'd like to channel you inner geisha (and honestly, who doesn't?) while simultaneously nixing oil and grime, these blotting sheets from Tatcha will be your complexion's newest friend. Steeped in rich Japanese beauty history, each paper is enriched with 100% pure abaca leaf featuring flakes of 23-karat gold. Truly, blotting at its most luxurious.

Another day, another Fenty product obsession. And as we transition from summer to fall, we're especially partial to this totally translucent blotting powder. Not only is the sleek white compact on point when it comes to presentation, but the exclusive oil-nixing formula diffuses the appearance of pores and keeps makeup fresher, longer.

While this pick from Becca does have a hint of tint upon first glance, the end result is that of total transparency. Infused with luxe mattifying ingredients like an exclusive blend of silica beads, pores look virtually photoshopped post-application with an oil-free, velveteen-like finish.

Super-affordable and available in four different shades, this blotting powder comes in as one of the best for its ability to control shine and magically even out skin tone. What's more, it won't deposit color or that abominable powdery residue post-makeup application.

Next up: The secret ingredient no one knows about for brightening.

As beauty editors, we get bombarded with a ton of new products every day (we know—tough life). Reviewed is a series where we report on some of the best products we’ve tried. Whether it’s a drugstore lipstick that lasted all day or a hand cream that saved us this winter, you’ll find all our favorites in this column. Enjoy!

The way people get excited for the upcoming Game of Thrones season is the same way I get excited about Biologique Recherche. For years now, I've heard nothing but how this French skincare brand works miracles on skin. People I know who have used it have enviable dewy skin.

Some of my co-workers have already reviewed its hero product, the P50, which is supposed to balance your skin's PH level, regulate oil production, brighten up dark spots, even out skin texture, and fight acne, but I had yet to try the magical toner myself. So when I heard that Rescue Spa was opening a few blocks from Byrdie HQ and offering a facial that incorporates Biologique Recherche products, I really didn't have an excuse to not go and get one.

Rescue Spa, which is located in Flatiron, is a two-story spacious retreat with a chic aesthetic (high ceilings, white pillars, and a black, gray, and white color scheme) that caters to every single beauty need. Need a haircut? It has a hair salon. Need a manicure? It has a nail station. Need a message, wax, or facial? It has spa rooms on both floors. Need to restock on makeup or skincare products? It sells top beauty brands such as Valmont, Eve Lom, Kevyn Aucoin, and of course, Biologique Recherche. If a beauty heaven does exist, I believe it would look like Rescue Spa.

I met with Diana Yerkes, lead esthetician at Rescue Spa, for my Biologique Recherche facial. Apart from being extremely kind and gracious, Yerkes is very knowledgeable in how the skin works. (She also has an amazing complexion, which isn't shocking, but you can't help but stare and want the same for yourself.) She's precise and methodical in her approach to skincare, teaching those same skills to the other estheticans at the spa so that you are great hands, no matter who you go see.

For an hour, she examined my skin—she was able to detect my love for cheese and ice cream just by looking at it—applied product, and thoroughly walked me through each step she was taking. She even decided to give me extractions—which isn't normally included—because she saw that my congested skin needed it and believed it was her duty as an esthetician to give my skin the best possible treatment.

To start, she cleansed my skin with the Biologique Recherche's Lait U, a milky oil-free cleanser that contains soothing ingredients like vitamin E and jojoba extract; it works as a great makeup remover as well. Next, she toned my skin with the classic and beloved P50 V 1970 (you can read about the different versions here), which contains lactic and salicylic acid to remove dead skin cells. She then mixed the brand's Masque VIP 02 and the Masque Vivant together and applied them both to my face. The VIP 02 is more hydrating and filled with soothing botanicals; the Vivant contains cucumber and witch hazel to get rid of any impurities, which is perfect for my oily skin. She left it on for about 20 minutes before rinsing it off (when you do it yourself, you'll notice an instant glow).

For a serum, she used Biologique Recherche Complexe Iribiol and the Dermopore. The Complexe Iribiol is made with iris and zinc extracts, which tighten up large pores and are supposed to help with sebum production. The Dermopore is well-loved because it promises to reduce the size of your pores and even out your complexion.

For the bags under my eyes, she applied the Creme Contour Des Yeux VIP 02, which tightens and brightens with a potent combo of fatty acids and an "oxygenating complex." To finish, she applied the rich moisturizer, Creme Dermopurifante; it helps regulate oil production.

I noticed during the facial that the Biologique Recherche products aren't exactly aromatic (the P50 has a pungent vinaigrette-smell—our editorial director called it “hot garbage”), but you quickly get over it after you feel how soft your skin is.

At the end, she wrote down every single product she used on me, along with instructions on how and when to use them. Two days later, she called to check up on me to see how I was liking my skin post-facial and if I had any questions since leaving.

It's been about two weeks since my facial and I'm still getting compliments on my skin—and it's all thanks to Diana and Biologique Recherche. I've also been wearing way less makeup because my skin is just that smooth and bright. My pores are way less noticeable, and I haven't had a breakout since the facial either.

If you're ever in the Flatiron area, I highly recommend doing one of the many Biologique treatments, or at the very least just checking out the incredible space. Chances are this is where you'll catch me after work.

Next up, read up on the at-home dermaplaning device we're loving right now.

Candice Kumai is a model turned chef and wellness writer—not to mention a five-time best-selling author. She's also a regular judge on Iron Chef America and Beat Bobby Flay. Suffice to say, girl knows her wellness stuff. Candice lives in New York City, and we're thrilled to have her on board as a contributor for THE/THIRTY. She'll be sharing her favorite recipes, mindfulness tips, and more. This month, she shares how her Japanese heritage has shaped her wellness routine.

My Japanese mother taught me about ki yo tsukete, which translates to "take great care and pay attention." She is, to me, the most resilient, bright, and beautiful sensei in life. She is a Japanese language and cultural teacher here in the U.S. and was born in Kyūshū, Japan. Being mindful, resilient, and graceful is the most beautiful thing I've learned from Mom. She is as real as they come and is everything she has taught me.

Mom showed me how to be graceful and resilient—she did not tell me. When you are confident, authentically you, and radiant on the inside, everyone will be attracted to you. Being Japanese-American is the perfect balance to be inspired and to create more inspiration based on heritage to share with others. I learn so much from my ancestors, and it is imperative to share that with the world. I am a bridge, a messenger, and an educator, but above all things, I will forever be a student. I feel honored to share these time-tested traditions with you.

I started to practice in my 20s, and it helps me to reset my mind, stay calm, and better focus in the mornings. I also visit Japan often to study the lifestyle, the food, and the fascinating culture with Buddhist monks. I am so inspired by their daily life and devotion to prayer and simplicity.

Kumai's latest book, Kintsugi Wellness, dives deeper into the Japanese approach to wellness—think of it like The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up for health. Preorder it now. Next up: See what life is really like after winning Olympic gold, according to gymnast Nastia Liukin.

The Japanese have a unique way of looking at life with a realist perspective, knowing things aren't always going to be great—mono no aware (which translates to "the empathy of things") or wabi-sabi (the acceptance of transience and imperfection) are examples of this.

I have been an editor and writer for many big U.S. health and wellness magazines and had to write on positivity constantly. This isn't always the way the Japanese would look at life. I think the realist approach contributes to more mindfulness and awareness.

The U.S. focuses on post-treatment and prescription pills, and that's not necessarily the answer to better health and wellness. The Japanese focus on prevention and mental health. They treasure nature, traditionally eat fermented foods, and have an open mind on the world. Here in the U.S., we must educate more on food, nutrition, sleep, less alcohol, and more exercise. Wellness should not cost money—it is technically free to all, and we must teach more of this.

You’re slouching as you read this sentence, aren’t you? No judgment—whether we’re conscious of it or not, we all do it. Even if you do have your perfect posture moments, the simple fact that our muscles tire easily when they stay in one position (it’s true—our bodies are built to be in motion) means a slump is never far behind. However, you don’t need to invest in a posture harness or enlist someone to poke you in the lower back every time you start to sink down in your chair.

You just have to be aware of simple habits you can practice throughout the day to improve your posture. We talked to Allison Stringer, a physical therapist at Proex, and Mark El-Hayek, head chiropractor and owner of Spine and Posture Care based in Australia, to share their recommendations on improving posture.

"Sitting with poor posture causes increased stress and force on the neck and back," explains Stringer. "The average head weighs between 10 and 11 pounds and when you sit up straight the weight of your head is absorbed by your spine. When you sit in a slumped posture your neck and back muscles now need to hold your head up, the neck moves into extension and your jaw jets forward. This can cause headaches, jaw pain, middle and lower back pain."

To keep this from becoming your new normal, take note of a few simple tricks you can do throughout the day, and soon you’ll be sitting (and standing) tall.

Keep reading for how to improve posture—walking with a book on your head is not one of them.

Stretching out your muscles is a good way to avoid unnecessary strain, a common cause of slouching. Doing a few cat and cow stretches in the morning helps to wake up your muscles after sleep and brings your back alignment top of mind right away. You can also try a set of wall angels. Stand with the back side of your body against a wall, legs hip-distance apart, arms extended in 90-degree angles on either side (like a goal post). Then, slowly raise and lower your arms, maintaining contact with the wall. This opens and lengthens the muscles in the front of your body. Shoulder shrugs and head tilts are easy movements to work in throughout the day that will also loosen you up. Another a good idea? Standing. Get up and go for a walk (even just a lap around the office) every 30 to 60 minutes to keep your muscles happy. Stringer suggests stretching for 30 seconds three times a day. She's an advocate of the below neck, chest, and hip stretches.

Adding a lumbar support pillow to your chair supports your spine and forces your back into the correct position the second you sit down. (In a pinch, a small pillow or rolled-up towel will help decrease posture stress, too.) Better yet, buy an exercise ball. Sitting on a balance ball like the ones you use at the gym encourages proper posture and maintains your lumbar curves. Sitting tall on an exercise ball also strengthens your core, which helps your posture in the long-term.

Sadly, you’re probably sitting in your chair all wrong. The correct way requires you to place both feet flat on the ground, weight distributed evenly. Crossing your legs is an unbalanced posture. Plus, it often causes you to lean, which is another unbalanced posture that puts undue stress on one side of your body. If your legs are too short to be able to comfortably plant both feet on the ground, prop something under your feet. Try using a laptop stand or an old boot box.

Stringer points out the importance of ensuring your work station is adjusted to you. "Sit with both feet flat on the floor. Be sure to create an angle between your trunk and hips so that your knees are lower than your hips (120 degrees). Support the lower back with a small towel or cushion. And the top of the computer screen should always be at eye height." If you have one available, she also suggests using a standing desk for part of the day. If you have to outstretch your arms to reach your keyboard or tilt your head to view your computer, your workspace needs some revamping. Adjust your positioning so that arms are flexed, not extended, and wrists are straight when typing. Aim for a 75- to 90-degree angle at your elbows. Also, your monitor should be level with your natural eye line. Add a riser or a sturdy book underneath your computer to lift the monitor up to your eye level. Are you leaning forward to view your screen? Time to get your eyes examined. Your out-of-date prescription could be causing you to slouch or lean forward.

It's all about standing tall. "Use muscles to sit unsupported in an S shape vs. C shape. Once an hour, stand up, walk to the water cooler, and drink an 8 oz. glass of water. On the half hour, squeeze shoulder blades together 10 times for 10 seconds," says Stringer. El-Hayek also notes the importance of staying active throughout the day and not chained to your desk. "Studies show that the average office worker only stands for 73 minutes in a 24 hour period. While sitting for long periods can be harmful to the body, it's not sitting that's the problem. It's the fact that we maintain our body in a static position for an extended period of time. This means that prolonged standing can be just as bad." El-Hayek suggests standing up and moving from a seated position every 20 minutes. "Even getting up for 10 seconds before going back to sitting can be beneficial. This can be hard, especially when you're focused on a task—so the best way to accomplish this is by setting an alarm as a reminder or only keeping a small glass of water on your desk, which forces you to stand up to refill it more often," he says. On the contrary, you should not force your posture to stay upright all day. One of the most common questions El-Hayek gets from his patients is "Should I try to force my back to stay up?" Realistically, this position is hard to maintain throughout the day. "Forcing your body to stay upright, in fact, ends up causing more harm than good. It causes your muscles to stay contracted over longer periods of time leading to them becoming achy, sore, and potentially leading to long-term pain." He believes it's important to stay aware of your posture, but you’re better off correcting it and forgetting about it rather than constantly forcing it to stay in an upright position.

High heels and thick-soled shoes alter your body’s center of gravity and throw off your alignment, so opt for flats or low heels whenever possible. Also, carrying around heavy purses increases strain and negatively impacts your posture. Clean your bag out regularly to avoid toting around heavy objects you don’t need and switch arms frequently to prevent stress and fatigue.

Implement a steady exercise routine three to four times a week to improve your posture. Stringer suggests things like standing rows, planks, overhead presses, and squats that focus on your back area.

Up next, hear from a wellness editor on five amazing things that happen when you stand with good posture.

This post was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.

Sarah Potempa knows a thing or two about curling hair—she's the creator of The Beachwaver, for starters. She's also been the lead stylist at the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show multiple times, brining her Angel wave expertise to the girls. She's styled countless celebrities like Lea Michele, Hailey Steinfeld, and Margot Robbie too, curling and waving their hair for red carpets and major events.

Naturally, when we wanted to know the tricks for making curls last longer (because there's nothing worse than spending an hour on your hair just to have the curls fall before you even get to your event), Potempa was an obvious point of contact. The VS show alone is proof that she can make hairstyles last—the models' signature sultry waves have outlasted long hours backstage and an entire evening of strutting down the runway, fans blowing and all.

Below, she's sharing her best styling tips to keep your curls from wimping out on you. Want to learn how? Keep scrolling!