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If there’s one thing Saweetie will do, it’s make sure she looks good when she steps out of the house. The Beautycon 2024 speaker’s recent vacation-ready cornrows, adorned by neutral and turquoise beads—matching her Tony Ward Couture light blue gown and nails— were no different.
The “My Type” rapper made sure her edges were laid down to perfection, too. The feed-in braids she rocked involve adding extension hair to cornrows or single braids, adding more volume to the hair. It appears as though her braids might have been done on her natural texture—as the next day, she took them down and revealed her silky curls while at the beach. For the braided style, of course the singer had to add a unique touch; side-swept to give them an elevated, it-girl look.
So, if you’re looking for hair inspiration for your holiday beach adventure—be it during the upcoming holiday season, a solo trip, or baecation for Valentine’s Day—take notes from Saweetie.
One thing’s for sure, two thing’s for certain: SZA gives us good vibes and music. While we can relate to her songs from her two albums, Ctrl and SOS, the Grammy-winning singer loves to show off her head-turning hair looks. And for good reason.
Do you remember when all of us would turn on the TV’s and put on 106 & Park? The Ctrl singer rocked her natural long curly hair in one episode with no makeup. Then, she rocked her big curls at the 2014 Maverick Music Festival. Additionally, there have been many times on Instagram where she’s showcased a variety of wigs—ranging from pink to orange to blue hairstyles.
Later, she rocked her hair in a top-knot updo at the 2017 BET Awards. She also made her first appearance at the 2018 Met Gala with loose curls. And, let’s not forget when she totally owned the yellow hair at the 2021 Billboard Music Awards, performing “Kiss Me More” with Doja Cat, either.
We could go on, but you get the picture. SZA is constantly raising the bar, not only musically, but also hair-wise—reminding us of the beauty and range of Black women.
In honor of her 35th birthday, today, below are a few of our favorite SZA hair moments.
While Halloween fell in the middle of the week this year, celebrities proved there’s always time for a little dress up. Show-stopping hair looks included.
First, with her black loose waves hairstyle, grammy-winning singer Coco Jones channeled the legendary Donna Summer. Then, singer Chloe Bailey rocked the Jessica Rabbit costume with red parted loose curls that complimented her purple gloves and sequined dress. Lala Anthony had a high ponytail—keeping her hair out of her face as she saved the world as Deadpool.
Halle Berry reminded us that natural curls on Halloween are just as festive as wigs or extensions. The Monster’s Ball actress wore hers alongside her witch costume. The Hottieween queen herself, Megan Thee Stallion, wore red hair as Starfire. Lastly, Quenlin Blackwell did Naomi Campbell justice—having her hair slicked back with a beret.
Below for our favorite Halloween 2024 hair moments.
Oh, Halloween is the perfect time to dress up as your alter ego. In other words, you can rock the hairstyle of your dreams. To get in the Halloween spirit, we’re taking a look back at our favorite Halloween hair moments from the past.
For example, do you remember when actress Lori Harvey channeled Beyoncé with the blonde ponytail in her iconic “Me, Myself and I” music video? Or Ice Spice’s Betty Boop curls. Then, Real Hot Girl Megan Thee Stallion wore a ton of green hair for her Gremlin costume. We also can’t forget about when Keke Palmer had a Frankenstein moment with her adorable son, Leo. The actress nailed the updo hair with gray on the sides. We are also of course taking notes from Kerry Washignton who wore a mini afro as Lionel Richie.
Check out our favorite celebrity hair moments from past Halloweens.
Let’s take it back to when Ross started her acting career in the early 2000s. The American Fiction actress sported her curls at the 2004 BET Awards. The following year, she did it again, letting her hair out, in full volume, at the UPN series Second Time Around Launch Party.
Over the years, she’s continued to wear her curls, but eventually began exploring new styles—voluminous blowouts and braids included. Almost a decade later, she rocked cornrows with a nude lipstick at the 2010 InStyle Magazine Post-Golden Globes Party. She put her hair in a bun, and finished her look with a bold eyeliner and red lipstick, at the 2014 American Music Awards. In 2016, she was found in two pigtail braids at the 2016 Nordic State Dinner. Lastly, she rocked a long ponytail with a signature red lipstick at the 2024 Vanity Fair Oscar Party.
In honor of her 52nd birthday today, look back at Ms. Ross’ inspiring hair moments over the years.
One thing’s for sure, you can never go wrong with braids. “Braids are a fun and versatile hairstyle that can be worn casually or formally,” says Ogle School Cosmetologist & Beauty Educator, Stanley Nolan. “It’s a great protective style that lasts long for girls with natural, extra curly hair.”
And, even with braids, sometimes you want to stay on trend—so why not add a claw clip? The accessory adds a level of chicness to your styles while you’re running errands—conveniently keeping strands out of your face.
Furthermore, to aid the clip with holding everything in place, Tukia Allen, a master cosmetologist and founder of Studio Bold Salon, suggests picking out products based on the texture and density. “For thicker, coarser hair you could use a clay pomade, hair wax, or a paste which will provide a stronger hold, giving definition to the braid,” says Allen. “For thinner, finer hair you could use a gel, oil-based pomade, foam, or cream which will provide a strong hold while making the braids look shiny and nourished.”
Below, you’ll find five ways to style your braids with a claw clip.
Ponytail
Start by gathering your hair as if you’re making a regular ponytail. You can position it high, mid-level, or low, depending on your preference. Twist the ponytail a couple of times to tighten it, then place the claw clip over the base to secure it. If your hair is long, let the ends fall over the clip for that classic ponytail look. Nolan recommends using the Luxy Hair’s Coastal Shell Claw Clip to “place it over the base of your ponytail.”
Half-Up, Half-Down
Stanley notes that you can follow the same steps as the ponytail, but only use the top section of your hair. You can use the laxizar Claw Clip to clip it in place while leaving the rest of your hair down.
Modified French Twist
Allen recommends gathering all your hair at the bottom of your neck. “Hold the base with one hand and twist the length of your hair upwards, coiling it tightly against the back of your head,” says Allen. “Lift the twisted section and tuck the ends under the twist or leave them sticking out for a more casual look.” Secure it with the LuSeren Claw Clip vertically over the twist.
Messy Bun
Nolan recommends gently tugging on the braid to add volume. You can take the Scünci Play Open Rectangle Claw Clip and place it over the base of your ponytail. “Make sure it sits securely in the middle of your head.” You can grab the bottom of your braids, folding them over the claw clip, depending on the style. “Open the clip slightly and tuck in the remaining length of the braid or braids underneath the clip,” says Nolan. “Adjust any loose hair for a finished look.”
Double Bun
Allen recommends sectioning the hair in a half up half down manner and using a hair tie in each section to create ponytails. “Take the upper ponytail and lift upwards placing a claw clip at the base,” says Allen. “The top ponytail should now hang over it.” You can use Pattern Beauty Claw Clip to create this hairstyle. You can fan the ponytail out and tuck the ends into the bottom of the claw clip, creating a top bun.
Achieving a salon quality blowout is all about technique, maintenance and protection. But, let’s face it. We don’t always have the time, or means, to go to a professional. That said, if you’re blow drying at home, it’s important to ensure you’re following the proper steps to keep hair healthy. You can achieve the perfect look, save time, and improve the health of your hair all in one. Who doesn’t want that?
Below, Andrew Fitzsimons, a celebrity hairstylist and founder of Andrew Fitzsimons Hair, tells NaturallyCurly all about how to properly use the blow dryer for sleek hair.
Use heat protectant
“It’s important to make sure that you protect your hair from heat damage when blow drying,” says Fitzsimons. The best way is to use a heat protectant spray or hair oil on your damp hair before drying. The celebrity hairstylist recommends using NatureLab’s Perfect Repair Leave In Treatment when you begin blow drying.
Start with a general blow dry
When blow-drying your hair, start with a general blow dry, avoiding focusing heat on one section. For added volume, try blow-drying your hair upside down. “Once dry, take a brush and pull the hair taught while drying,” says Fitzsimons. “Make sure your dryer is angled downwards to prevent flyaways.”
Point the dryer downwards
Start by pointing your dryer downwards as you brush through your hair from root to end. This will prevent any flyaways or baby hairs from sticking upwards. If using a round brush, you’ll want to curl the brush away from your face as you dry. Hold the dryer around 6 inches away from your face.
What should I keep in mind for a sleek blowout?
The best way to achieve a sleek blowout is to start while your hair is still wet. Fitzsimons notes that after towel-drying, work 2-3 pumps of the Andrew Fitzsimons Virgin Repair Restructuring Serum into damp hair, starting at the ends.
After applying serum, blow dry your hair, covering your whole head rather than focusing on specific areas. Once mostly dry, you can section your hair and blow dry with a brush from root to end, ensuring the dryer is facing down to avoid flyaways. Once finished, use a hair oil to give your locks a glossy, silky look.
Do you know what your favorite celebrities like Saweetie, Rihanna, Yara Shadidi, Storm Reid, Issa Rae, Alicia Keys, and Tyla have in common? Not only are they incredible performers, they also have immaculate edges. And, whether you’re new to elevating yours, or a seasoned baby hair lay-er, we can all use some tips to brush up on our skills.
“Edges, often called ‘baby hairs,’ are the fine, delicate hairs along the hairline,” says founder of Nylah’s Naturals, Kameese Davis. “Because they’re shorter and finer than the rest of the hair, edges are more vulnerable to breakage and damage caused by tight hairstyles, over-styling, or harsh chemicals.”
Tiffany Rose, CEO and founder of Hollywood Hair Bar, recommends utilizing edge control to “give you a new and fun look, but also help relieve an itchy scalp, split ends, and dullness.” Meanwhile, Dr. Jarrett Manning, a beauty expert and dentist, also recommends using a brush with strong bristles and wearing a silky scarf to tie around the edges for them to stay in place.
Below for a step-by-step on how to lay down your edges the right way.
Prep Your Hair
Start with clean, dry edges. If needed, you can apply a small amount of hair oil, pomade or moisturizer to prevent dryness. Or, you can slightly damp edges.
Brush Baby Hairs
Grab your edge brush or toothbrush to gently smooth the baby hairs. Continue to smooth down hair as desired.
Apply Edge Control
Take a small amount of edge control or hair oil and apply it along your hairline using your fingertips. You can coat the hair lightly. To get a stronger hold, apply more edge control as needed.
Style Your Edges
Use the toothbrush or edge brush to slightly smooth and shape your edges. You can create swoops, curls, or waves based on your preference. The key to this is to take your time to get the desired shape.
Set Your Edges
Once styled, wrap a satin scarf around your edges for about 10-15 minutes. This will help the product set and keep your edges in place for a few minutes or until you’re ready to leave the house for your outing.
Please leave it to Mya to not only have a stellar music career—thanks to hits like “My Love Is Like…Wo”—but also be the beauty muse of the early 2000s. Dare we call her the OG curly girl as well, as the DC-native rocked her natural hair proudly, on a large platform, in a time where it wasn’t quite as popular as straight strands.
The Smoove Jones singer had highlights and teased her hair at the 2003 MTV Music Awards red carpet. The following year, she decided to add a flower to her curls at the 30th American Music Awards. Then, in 2006, the singer did the same—that time sporting a ponytail that showed off her edges at the 2006 Miami Vice Miami Premiere.
Towards the end of the decade, in 2009, she wore her hair in a 1920’s Great Gatsby-inspired ‘do at the 2009 HBO’s Post Emmy Awards Reception—reminding us of the beauty of switching up your hair. Later, the singer rocked her curly hair to the side at the 2016 58th Grammy Awards. The following night, she let it out and proud at the Universal Music Group’s After Party.
In honor of her 45th birthday, today, look back at Mya’s inspiring hair moments over the years.
If you’re starting your curly hair journey, welcome to the club. Or, perhaps you’re looking to give your curls a refresh and a little more TLC—especially due to chillier months looming. Either way, “the goal of refreshing your curls is to reactivate the moisture and definition from the day before,” says celebrity hairstylist and founder of Andrew Fitzsimons Hair, Andrew Fitzsimons. “This will bring back your natural curl pattern and add a little shine as well.”
Below, Fitzsimons and other beauty experts break down each curl type and how to refresh your curls.
Understanding the curl types
Type 1 Curls
Straight, with no curl or wave. Ranging from fine to coarse textures, this hair type is usually more resistant to curling and might require the use of certain products to add texture or volume.
Type 2 Curls
Type 2 hair has a slight wave to it but is easily straightened – often referred to as having that “S” shape. These waves typically lack volume at the roots and don’t hold strong to heavy styling products. It’s better to use lightweight products on this hair type.
Type 3 Curls
These curls are more defined and have the springiness you imagine with a typical curl. This hair type can hold more heavyweight products designed for curls, like gels and creams. The Andrew Fitzsimons Fantasy Curls collection has great options, such as the Nourishing Mask with shea and avocado butters which will moisturize curls without adding weight.
Type 4 Curls
These curls are tight and coily with a shape that can sometimes look zigzagged. They’re super voluminous, which gives them a shorter appearance. This hair type is more prone to dryness so it needs lots of moisturizing products to keep that definition.
How to give your curls a refresh
Kameese Davis, hair expert and founder of Nylah’s Naturals, notes that to refresh your curls, start by using a curl activator cream or product to enhance and revive the curls. However, the key to fresh-looking curls is maintaining the health of your hair strands.
Use a moisture retention spray or cream to keep curls hydrated and long-lasting. Apply the product, then scrunch your hair upwards with your hands to encourage bounce and restore the natural curl pattern. You can also twist individual strands around your finger to define curls—just wrap the hair around your finger, then release for a more defined look.
How can I make my curls curly again?
For damaged hair that won’t curl anymore, the best thing to do is give it a chop. “This will clear out the dead ends weighing down your healthy curls,” says Fitzsimons. “To prevent damage, make sure that you keep your hair hydrated and don’t over-wash.”
The key to making your curls curly again starts with the health of your hair. No amount of curl activator can revive damaged or dead curls. Begin a healthy hair journey with consistent washing, deep conditioning, and keeping your hair moisturized. “Focusing on hydration and using natural, nourishing products is essential for restoring your curls’ natural shape and bounce,” says Davis. “Healthy curls thrive when the hair is properly cared for from the inside out.”
How to revive curls the next day
To revive your curls the next day, the key is rehydration and curl activation. Davis recommends starting by lightly misting your hair with water or a moisture spray to wake up the curls. Then, apply a small amount of curl activator or leave-in conditioner, focusing on the ends and areas where curls have flattened. Gently scrunch your hair upwards to reactivate the curl pattern. Remember, this is a short-term solution; healthy curls rely on consistent moisture and care, so maintaining hydration is essential for lasting results.
“Serum adds instant moisture to your hair and prevents frizz, plus it’ll give your curls that bounciness and definition you’re looking for,” says Fitzsimons. “Gently scrunch a small amount of product into damp hair starting at the ends to redefine your natural curls.”
How can I rejuvenate my curls without washing?
Over-washing can strip your hair of moisture, so lightly misting your curls with water or using a dry shampoo is enough to refresh and revive them. Davis recommends sleeping in braided hair to maintain your curls overnight. “In the morning, unbraid your hair, and you’ll have a loose, defined curl pattern,” says Davis. “This method helps refresh and define curls without the need for a full wash while keeping your hair moisturized.”
Should I wet my curly hair every day?
“Spraying water on your hair provides temporary moisture and reactivates curl products previously used in the hair to bring life back to the curls,” says Senior Educator & Product Evaluation Manager at Aunt Jackie’s, Mika Smith. “It evaporates quickly and may leave the hair feeling dry.”
Smith also shares that “wetting your curls daily may lead to dryness if you are not replenishing moisture with a routine that will bring your curls back to life without a full wash.” Smith notes that too much water alone generally will not damage curly hair, however over wetting without proper moisture can lead to dryness and frizz. “Curly hair needs proper moisturizing to prevent damage and it is key to maintaining healthy curls.”
Whether you’ve had your gorgeous locs for years now or you’re new to the club, you can’t go wrong with brushing up on maintenance best practices. And, as the seasons change, it’s also a great time to have fun and explore new styles. Afterall, there are countless ways to rock locs. Take a look at our favorites—like Lisa Bonet, Shanola Hampton, Ava DuVernay, Chlöe, and Halle Bailey, for example— who personalize theirs often.
So, whether you’re opting for ponytails, buns, French rolls, Two-strand twists, cornrows, Bantu knots, or even adding cuffs and jewels to your strands, Laverne Amara, founder and owner of NVLX Labs breaks down her top five tips for keeping your locs healthy and flourishing this fall and beyond.
Ensure your hair is clean
Start with clean, freshly washed locs to ensure a smooth process. To keep your locs looking their best, shampoo them regularly to maintain cleanliness and a healthy scalp.
You can use water-soluble shampoos and conditioners that won’t cause buildup or unravel the hair. “You also want to avoid products that are too harsh, as they can leave your hair dry or irritate the scalp.” You can stick to a consistent maintenance routine and healthy diet to manage new growth and prevent loc breakage.
What to know about ACV rinses
You can definitely wash your hair with apple cider vinegar as it can help detoxify your scalp. But, Amara notes that you have to be careful when you wash it with this ingredient. “I recommend a 1:4 ratio of ACV to water to keep the scalp’s pH balanced and avoid dryness or irritation,” says Amara. “It’s also better to use products that won’t cause buildup in the first place, rather than trying to remove product residue after the fact.”
Use a leave-in
Mist your locs with water or a leave-in spray to make them more pliable. Amara also recommends using water-soluble, natural products with clean ingredients that do not weigh the locs down. “Avoid heavy products that leave behind residue, as this can build up within the locs over time,” says Amara. “Conditioner can be used as a leave-in after washing or diluted with water in a spray bottle for daily use and leave your locs soft to the touch without feeling oily or heavy.”
Detangle
When it comes to detangling, it’s a highly “debated topic.” This is likely because many people assume it means to loosen or straighten the hair. This isn’t the case, and Amara notes that it’s important to detangle the locs. “Regular detangling helps maintain the overall organization of your locs,” says Amara. She also recommends using the NVLX LABS Loc Comb as they can “be used for scalp massages and are easily sanitized to ensure germs aren’t being transferred into the hair.”
Style as desired
Create your desired loc style—be it updos, twists, braids, or curls—just as you would with loose natural hair. “The smaller the locs, the more versatile they are for different styles,” says Amara. Depending on the hair style, if you have short locs and you want to curl them, start setting your locs the night before by moisturizing and dividing them into sections. You can place each section as bantu knots or twists and secure them with a hair tie. Secure your locs with pins, hair ties, or accessories to hold the style in place.
Protect while sleeping
Last but not least, Amara notes that it’s important to protect your locs when sleeping or when they’re wet. She also recommends using a satin bonnet at night to “avoid lint, and friction and prevent the hair from drying out.” She recommends using the nvlx Knits Mudcloth Inspired Hair Towel as it is versatile and protects hair from lint and dust.
Fall is here. With it comes pumpkin spice lattes, colorful leaves, and autumnal holidays like Halloween and Thanksgiving. Additionally, we can’t forget the chillier temperatures, either. That means we’re likely trading in our summer air drying days for diffusing our curls.
“This fun tool allows you to turn your blow dryer into an enhancer for defining your curls giving you that fun, bouncy defined definition,” says master cosmetologist, Stanley Shavon. A diffuser can help you achieve more uniform, less frizzy, and voluminous curls. However, the question still begs—how do we diffuse the right way?
A celebrity hairstylist and founder of Andrew Fitzsimons Hair, Andrew Fitzsimons, tells NaturallyCurly that it’s all about starting with the right products when washing your hair. “Specific shampoo and conditioner work well as they are packed with strengthening oils to help moisturize the hair, leaving your curls defined and shiny.”
Below, discover more about how to diffuse your hair the right way for optimal results.
Prep your hair
The key to diffusing your hair is using the right products when washing and diffusing your hair. To start, make sure your hair is nice and clean. “After washing your hair with the shampoo and conditioner, apply serum to really lock in moisture, without added weight, along with the leave-in conditioner for extra hydration and protection.” Shavon also recommends not to use your hands when preparing to diffuse as it can frizz up your hair. “The hair should not be completely drenched as it will slow down the process that should be super convenient and not daunting.”
Choose the right heat setting
The next step is to select the right heat setting for your curly hair. When diffusing your curls, start with the lowest heat and speed settings, then increase as your hair dries. Use the cool button at the roots for added volume.
Work in sections
To start diffusing your curly hair, dry the ends of your hair and use the diffuser attachment to softly scrunch the curls. “When you’re ready to diffuse, tilt your head to one side and place sections of hair over the diffuser attachment,” says Fitzsimons. “Using medium heat, press the diffuser toward your scalp for 10 to 20 seconds per section to add volume.”
Then, you can continue until you’re done and head is dry. Shavon also recommends using a mouse for your curls. This product adds shine and is lightweight for the hair as it doesn’t produce a crunchy look or feel.
“The scooping of the hair and bringing it to the scalp produces and mimics that scrunch effect while avoiding frizz that using your hands can create,” says Shavon. “This enhances your natural curls and fights against frizz.”
Beauty is expensive. While there are many products on the market that can cater to our needs, sometimes many of us want that extra “effortless” oomph. That said, we’ve seen an uptick in people gravitating towards botox and fillers to add volume to their faces.
With these trends in our faces more than ever before, it’s easy to be curious about trying the treatments for yourself. We’re here, alongside five experts, to break down a few things to know before trying it out for yourself.
What is botox?
“Botox is a popular cosmetic treatment that uses a purified form of botulinum toxin to temporarily relax facial muscles and reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines,” Limor Weinberg, MSN, ARNP, FNP-BC, celebrity injector and founder at The Clinic USA tells Beautycon. “It is commonly used to treat areas such as forehead lines, crow’s feet, and frown lines between the eyebrows.”
Dr. Joel Kopelman, MD, FAAD, facial plastic surgeon at Kopelman Aesthetic Surgery notes that botox works by blocking nerve signals to the muscles, preventing them from contracting and smoothing the skin. “Botox is a go-to treatment for those looking to achieve a more youthful and refreshed appearance without surgery,” Weinberg says.
What is filler?
Think of filler as treatment that adds volume, shape, and contour to different areas of your face. “Most fillers are hyaluronic acid based, which are essentially sugar derivatives,” Chris Bustamante, DNP, NP-C, founder of Lushful Aesthetics says. “Filler volumizes areas where we want to create more structure such as lips, jawlines, and cheeks.”
Paul Charette, master aesthetician and founder of Charette Cosmetics notes people can benefit from doing filler as it can add definition to your face. “Many lose fullness due to aging or genetics,” he says. For those who want to enhance their features can use filler as it has more natural-looking results.
What is the difference between botox and filler?
Charette notes that the reason why botox and filler are different is because of its function. “Botox works by relaxing muscles, while fillers address volume loss,” Charette says. “Think of Botox as a temporary ‘freeze’ for wrinkles, and fillers as a way to ‘add’ volume and definition.”
Why are botox and filler popular right now?
Bustamante shares that we live in a world where we are all either stressed or overwhelmed. Or we can be both at the same time. This can take a toll on our appearance. “People look towards injectables to feel refreshed,” Bustamante says. “When you dive deep in psychology you’ll see how your perception of your physical appearance impacts your mental well being. Botox and filler are safe treatments that can deliver impactful results that allow people to feel and look their best.”
What are the side effects of botox and filler?
No matter the cosmetic procedure, you’ll more likely experience some side effects. Dr. Stafford Broumand, MD, board-certified plastic surgeon at 740 Park Plastic Surgery explains that “potential side effects are bruising and swelling the injection site.” While there are many doctors, dermatologists and surgeons who can perform these cosmetic procedures, each expert recommends finding a provider with strong google reviews and a portfolio that resonates with you.
When you’re dealing with acne, you’re likely trying to find the right ingredients and cocktail of products to heal your skin. Regardless of your skin type, you’ve probably heard of using salicylic acid, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and other skincare ingredients to treat your breakout. However, there’s yet another that needs to be on your radar: Azelaic Acids.
Dr. Jody A. Levine, MD, FAAD, FAAP, a New York Dermatologist at Plastic Surgery & Dermatology, and Dr. Karyn Grossman, a board-certified dermatologist at Karyng Skincare, tell Beautycon all about azelaic acids and their wonderful benefits for acne, rosacea and melasma.
What is Azelaic Acid?
“Azelaic acid is a naturally-occurring acid found in grains such as wheat and barley,” Dr. Levine says. “It has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a good ingredient for use in skincare products.” Azelaic acids are suitable for all skin types since they’re considered gentle acids. Dr. Levine recommends people to do a patch test before starting to use azelaic acid as high percentages of this acid can irritate the skin.
What are the benefits of Azelaic Acid?
Azelaic acids have many benefits including reducing redness and swelling in your face. Both Dr. Levine and Dr. Grossman note that it also can help with those dealing with rosacea. For anyone with bad breakouts, Dr. Levine also shares that azelaic acids help treat acne by “unclogging pores, reducing inflammation, lightening dark spots and melasma for a more even skin tone.”
How does it tackle acne?
Dr. Grossman notes that azelaic acid “reduces the growth of acne-causing bacteria, decreases inflammation, and helps to keep pores clear by exfoliating dead skin cells.” Dr. Levine also shared that azelaic acids are non-comedogenic and helps prevent pores from becoming clogged.
Is it safe for deeper skin tones?
Dr. Grossman also shares that azelaic acids are beneficial for dark tones as it “address hyperpigmentation without the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation— a common concern for people of color.”
Which products should I try?
And just like that, Beautycon 2024 is around the corner. Specifically, the two-day event will be taking place on November 2nd and 3rd from 10 am to 6 pm in Los Angeles. Expect appearances from your favorite A-listers like Jonathan Van Ness, Sir John, Sabrina Elba, Justine Marian, and more.
This year, Beautycon will celebrate the future of beauty with help from industry icons, enticing panels, masterclasses, and more. To secure your tickets, head to our event landing page. General admission starts at $59—giving you two-day access to expert-led sessions and meet-and-greets from your favorite beauty experts and celebrity makeup artists.
Meanwhile, the VIP package costs $299, giving you early bird access to the event as well as VIP lounge access. Enjoy complimentary refreshments and front-of-line status for all meet-and-greets. With this package, you will receive custom gift bags curated by our beauty editors. What’s more? You’ll have priority check-in and receive exclusive offers at the Soko Mrkt.
Below, discover what to expect from Beautycon 2024.
Masterclass Stage:
There will be live interviews, product reviews, styling demonstrations, and more with the top beauty expert makeup artists and hairstylists in the industry.
Beauty School:
The beauty school stage will focus on celebrity stylist and creator-learning experiences that will inspire self-expression, community, and discussions.
Buseum:
The Buseum will allow you to learn the history behind your favorite beauty products and trends. With many brands on the market, you can choose and support the best beauty products.
Creator’s Studio:
You’ll have access to a studio where you can create fresh social media content. Afterall, did it even happen if there’s no footage?
When you’re dealing with acne, you’re likely trying to find the right ingredients and cocktail of products to heal your skin. Regardless of your skin type, you’ve probably heard of using salicylic acid, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and other skincare ingredients to treat your acne. However, there’s yet another skincare ingredient that needs to be on your radar: Azelaic Acids.
Dr. Jody A. Levine, MD, FAAD, FAAP, a New York Dermatologist at Plastic Surgery & Dermatology, and Dr. Karyn Grossman, a board-certified dermatologist at Karyng Skincare, tells ESSENCE all about azelaic acids and its wonderful benefits for acne, rosacea and melasma.
What is Azelaic Acid?
“Azelaic acid is a naturally-occurring acid found in grains such as wheat and barley,” Dr. Levine tells Beautycon. “It has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a good ingredient for use in skincare products.” Azelaic acids are suitable for all skin types since it’s considered a gentle acid. Dr. Levine recommends people to do a patch test before starting to use azelaic acid as high percentages of this acid can irritate the skin.
What are the benefits of Azelaic Acid?
Azelaic acids have many benefits including reducing redness and swelling in your face. Both Dr. Levine and Dr. Grossman note that it also can help with those dealing with rosacea. For anyone with bad breakouts, Dr. Levine also shares that azelaic acids help treat acne by “unclogging pores, reducing inflammation, lightening dark spots and melasma for a more even skin tone.”
Can Azelaic Acid treat acne?
Dr. Grossman notes that azelaic acid “reduces the growth of acne-causing bacteria, decreases inflammation, and helps to keep pores clear by exfoliating dead skin cells.” Dr. Levine also shared that azelaic acids are non-comedogenic and helps prevent pores from becoming clogged.
Dr. Grossman also shares that azelaic acids are beneficial for dark tones as it “address hyperpigmentation without the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, a common concern for people of color.”
Which products should I try?
When it comes to the goal of sculpting our faces, the one thing that often comes to mind is how much money we’ll spend on facials that can help ensure our face cards are on point. But, what if we could bring sculpting aids to our home? That’s where we can consider Gua Sha.
“Gua Sha is a traditional Chinese healing technique that involves scraping the skin with a smooth edge tool to improve circulation and promote healing,” Evelyn Ramirez, a licensed Medical Aesthetician and the founder of Evelyn Aesthetics tells Beautycon. “This practice has been used for centuries to address various ailments, including muscle pain, inflammation, and even colds.”
Dr. Hannah Kopelman, a dermatologist based in New York City, also shares, “it can stimulate blood flow, reduce puffiness, and promote lymphatic drainage, leading to a more contoured and toned appearance.”
Additionally, there are many variations of gua sha, depending on what you’re looking for when you use a gua sha tool. Kopelman notes that Jade is the most common gua sha that people use for their skin. “Jade tools are traditionally used for their cooling properties and are great for sensitive skin.” Ramirez also shares rose quartz gua sha tools are popular for “their smooth texture and are great for sensitive skin.”
Denise Rabor, a makeup artist and the founder and director of Wow Beauty and The DOR Beauty Edit recommends when picking out gua sha tools to “choose a tool with a shape that fits comfortably in your hand and that suits the contours of your face or body.”
To use gua sha tools, Elina Fedotova, celebrity aesthetician and founder of Elina Organics & Spa, recommends using a moisturizing botanical lotion or skin oil on the area you are massaging so the tool will slide over the skin. For those with acne prone skin, not to use oil as it can be “too heavy for your complexion.” When using the gua sha tool, gently massage your face from your nose in an outward movement toward your ears, not too hard so you can avoid bruising.
It is not uncommon for people to apply deodorant to areas other than their armpits, such as their arms, legs, underboobs, private parts, and lower back. However, regardless of where you apply deodorant, you will still sweat and potentially develop body odor. That said, recently, whole body deodorants have become a trend in the beauty industry.
Below, Dr. DiAnne Davis, MD, FAAD, a dermatologist based in Texas, and Dr. Phyllis Pobee, founder of Slim Signal, discuss whole body deodorants and their benefits.
What are whole-body deodorants?
“A whole body deodorant is intended to combat odor in more areas than just your armpits,” Davis tells Beautycon. “Using a whole body deodorant in these areas can protect against body odor.” According to Davis, bacteria is naturally found on our skin, resulting in odor in areas that are susceptible to warmth and moisture, such as on the chest, under the breast, between the thighs, private areas, feet, etc.
What are the benefits of whole-body deodorants?
Both Davis and Pobee note that whole body deodorants can provide long-lasting odor protection in areas other than your armpits. People can face insecurities when they’re not confident in how they smell. While body odor is normal, people can solve this problem by going on multiple showers, changing clothes, keeping distance from others, and using products to address odor.
Are whole-body deodorants safe to use everywhere?
Whole body deodorants should only be used externally. They’re generally gentle enough to use on skin and sensitive areas. When looking for a whole body deodorant, you want to consider an option that is going to be gentle on sensitive areas. When picking out a whole body deodorant, look at the ingredients to make sure it’s “made without aluminum salts, parabens, or baking soda” that will not irritate the skin and doesn’t leave a white residue.
What are the differences between whole-body deodorants and traditional deodorants?
Davis notes that the biggest difference between whole body deodorants versus regular deodorants is that Whole Body Deodorants are designed to be gentle for sensitive areas and “to combat odor on different parts of the body,” while traditional deodorants are focused on underarms. Pobee shares that whole body deodorants have different ingredients than regular deodorants. “Whole-body deodorants often contain natural antibacterial agents like tea tree oil and aloe vera to enhance skin health while preventing odor,” Pobee says. “To use a whole-body deodorant, apply it to clean, dry skin across areas prone to sweat.”
Which ones should I use?
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