Category: News

When it comes to skincare innovation, South Korea consistently sets the global standard. K-Beauty has produced some of the world’s most celebrated sun protection formulas, introduced treatments like the widely discussed salmon sperm facial, and continues to outperform many Western products when it comes to addressing redness, uneven tone, and texture. During a trip to Seoul last year, a visit to Olive Young—often compared to Sephora—felt essential. That stop resulted in over $400 worth of skincare and, eventually, an extra suitcase.

After spending the past 12 months testing nearly every product I bought, the timing feels perfect as Olive Young arrives in New York City. With firsthand experience across categories, it’s now easier to pinpoint which formulas truly deliver and are worth repurchasing. Below is a curated breakdown of the standout products that earned a permanent spot in my routine.

Glass Skin Essentials for Smooth, Luminous Texture

The concept of glass skin originates from Korean beauty culture and refers to skin that looks exceptionally smooth, clear, and radiant. These products focus on refining skin texture, evening tone, minimizing the look of pores, and restoring a plump appearance with lasting hydration.

Sulwhasoo First Care Activating Serum

This luxurious serum immediately shows why it’s considered a K-Beauty staple. Formulated with ginseng extract, it supports skin barrier repair while helping improve brightness through a vitamin C derivative. A blend of traditional Korean herbal extracts enhances hydration, leaving the skin balanced and revitalized after each application.

Peach & Lily Glass Skin Refining Serum

Designed to live up to its name, this lightweight serum enhances daily radiance with consistent use. A single pump helps smooth uneven texture and delivers a soft pearlescent glow. It performs especially well on makeup-free days, giving the complexion a polished, refreshed finish.

Targeted Solutions to Calm Redness

For those dealing with persistent flushing or rosacea-prone skin, reducing redness can be challenging. Alongside lifestyle adjustments and prescription care, these formulas help visibly neutralize skin redness both instantly and over time.

Erborian CC Red Correct

This multitasking formula combines the benefits of a calming serum, SPF protection, and color-correcting pigments. It adapts to the skin upon application, disguising redness while soothing irritation. Its long-term place in my routine speaks to its consistent performance.

Cicapair Sensitive Skin Serum

When skin feels overheated or inflamed, this serum offers immediate relief. Powered by centella asiatica and allantoin, it helps calm irritation on contact while supporting barrier repair. Chilling it beforehand enhances its cooling effect.

Gentle Yet Effective Care for Acne-Prone Skin

K-Beauty approaches acne by prioritizing barrier restoration and hydration rather than harsh treatments. The goal is to calm flare-ups while maintaining skin balance, making these formulas suitable for sensitive complexions.

Innisfree Gentle Retinol & Salicylic Acid Serum

This formula blends salicylic acid with a low-strength retinol to address breakouts without causing dryness. A green tea complex supports hydration, reduces visible redness, and helps strengthen the skin barrier for a more resilient complexion.

SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Tea-Trica Relief Ampoule

Ideal for sensitive, acne-prone skin, this ampoule uses plant-based calming extracts to minimize redness, refine pores, and support overall balance. Its non-comedogenic formula makes it suitable for regular use.

Advanced Serums for Aging Skin Concerns

South Korea is known for its advanced anti-aging treatments, both in-office and at home. For those unable to travel, these serums help address fine lines, uneven tone, and loss of firmness.

Medicube PDRN Pink Peptide Serum

This topical serum uses PDRN technology derived from salmon DNA, paired with hydrating peptides. The formula supports skin regeneration, improves elasticity, and helps even out pigmentation for a smoother appearance.

Haruharu Wonder Black Rice Hyaluronic Serum

With a lightweight, lotion-like texture, this serum targets visible wrinkles through black rice extract and hyaluronic acid. Applied as a spot treatment, it helps create a visibly plumped effect within weeks.

Lightweight Eye Serums That Deliver Results

K-Beauty eye serums are designed to be thinner than traditional creams while still delivering high-performance actives. They focus on smoothing fine lines, improving dark circles, reducing puffiness, and restoring hydration.

CosRx Snail Peptide Eye Cream

Building on the popularity of snail-based skincare, this eye formula uses snail mucin and peptides to brighten and firm the under-eye area. It effectively reduces puffiness without irritating sensitive skin.

Beauty of Joseon Revive Eye Serum Ginseng + Retinal

This eye serum blends ginseng extract with retinal to target dark circles and fine lines. Its lightweight consistency layers smoothly under concealer, making it suitable for both morning and evening routines.

Exercise machines often advertise safety and ease of use, but after 50 they can quietly erode true strength. Fixed movement paths remove balance challenges, limit stabilizer muscle engagement, and allow dominant muscles to take over while weaker areas decline. Over time, these imbalances reduce functional ability and shift excess stress onto the joints instead of distributing work through the muscles.

Everyday strength depends on coordination, postural control, and managed tension. Free, body-led movements require muscles to stabilize, communicate, and generate force together. This cooperation builds practical strength that supports daily tasks like carrying groceries, climbing stairs, and protecting joints, all without unnecessary wear and tear.

The six movements below fit naturally into daily routines and outperform machines by restoring natural movement patterns. Practiced daily with focus, moderate effort, and clean form, they help strength build steadily and reliably after 50.

Sit-to-Stand Squat for Daily Leg Power

This exercise develops lower-body strength using the same motion performed multiple times each day. Unlike leg press machines that lock the body into one track, sit-to-stand squats require balance control, hip drive, and core engagement at the same time. Each repetition trains the legs and trunk to work together, supporting knee health while reinforcing strong hip extension.

Daily practice improves neuromuscular efficiency, allowing strength to be expressed smoothly and without strain. Over time, this movement rebuilds leg power, boosts confidence, and reinforces joint-friendly mechanics that machines fail to address.

How to Do It

• Sit on a chair with feet shoulder-width apart
• Brace the core and lean slightly forward
• Push through the heels to stand tall
• Lower back down with controlled movement

Standing Push-Away Press for Upper-Body Stability

Upper-body pushing strength is essential beyond the gym. This standing press variation forces the shoulders, chest, arms, and core to stabilize while producing force. Unlike seated machines that provide external support, this movement demands upright posture, full-body balance, and tension management from head to toe.

Performed daily, it improves shoulder durability and restores pressing strength without compressing the joints. Light resistance paired with slow, controlled motion builds more usable strength than heavy machine work that removes stabilization demands.

How to Do It

• Stand tall holding a resistance band or light dumbbells
• Press hands forward at chest height
• Keep ribs down and core braced
• Return slowly with control

Hip Hinge Reach to Protect the Spine

Strong hips play a major role in protecting the spine and powering movement after 50. This hinge exercise targets the glutes and hamstrings while teaching proper hip loading mechanics instead of stressing the lower back. Many machines isolate muscles without teaching this essential coordination.

Daily hinge practice restores posterior-chain strength, enhances posture, and reinforces safe bending patterns. This combination directly reduces back strain and supports stronger, more confident movement throughout the day.

How to Do It

• Stand tall with feet set hip-width apart
• Push hips back while reaching arms forward
• Maintain a long, neutral spine
• Return to standing by driving hips forward

Split-Stance Hold for Single-Leg Strength

Single-leg strength is a key marker of resilience after 50. This split-stance position challenges balance awareness, hip stability, and leg strength simultaneously. Machines rarely reveal side-to-side differences, but this stance exposes and corrects them efficiently.

Holding this position daily strengthens stabilizing muscles around the hips, knees, and ankles. Improved balance lowers fall risk while reinforcing strength that transfers directly to walking, stair climbing, and everyday movement.

How to Do It

• Step one foot forward into a split stance
• Lower slightly until both legs are engaged
• Hold the position with an upright torso
• Switch sides after each hold

Standing Row Pull-Back for Posture Support

Upper-back strength is essential for maintaining posture and protecting the shoulders. This standing row movement trains the arms while requiring the core and hips to stabilize the body. Many machines support the torso, allowing postural collapse without consequence.

Daily pulling strengthens muscles responsible for upright alignment and shoulder positioning. Consistent tension in these areas reduces neck strain, improves arm strength, and balances the pushing movements common in daily life.

How to Do It

• Stand tall holding a resistance band or dumbbells
• Pull elbows back toward the ribs
• Squeeze the shoulder blades together
• Return slowly with control

Loaded Carry Walk for Real-World Strength

Few movements build practical strength like carrying weight while walking. This exercise trains grip strength, core bracing, hip control, and postural endurance at the same time. Machines isolate individual parts, while loaded carries integrate the entire system.

Practiced daily, carries reinforce proper bracing and teach the body to move under load without breakdown. Even short distances performed with focus develop durable strength that carries over into nearly every aspect of life after 50.

If you spend most of your day sitting at a desk, scrolling on your phone, or juggling constant stress, finding a quick way to ease tension can feel essential. When your body starts to feel tight or fatigued, a short, focused stretch can make a noticeable difference in how you feel.

Yoga expert Adriene Mishler, founder of Yoga with Adriene, offers a simple solution designed to do exactly that. Her 13-minute upper back and neck-focused yoga stretch fits easily into your routine, whether you practice it in the morning, during a lunch break, or right after work. The session is designed to help release built-up tension and bring more ease into the body through gentle, mindful movement.

According to Mishler, modern digital habits cause stress to collect in the upper back and neck, often leading to poor posture, stiffness, and discomfort. This short practice uses slow stretches and intentional mobility work to support alignment, improve movement, and create a feeling of openness through the shoulders, spine, and neck. With just a mat and optional props, it offers a quick moment of relief.

How the Upper Back and Neck Yoga Session Begins

Like many of Mishler’s routines, the practice starts seated in a comfortable cross-legged position. After a few calming breaths, you’ll gently move your upper body in circular motions, allowing the spine to round and extend naturally. These slow movements encourage spinal awareness, help warm the muscles, and prepare the body for deeper stretches.

You’ll then transition into a gentle neck stretch by dropping one ear toward the shoulder and switching sides. This simple movement helps release neck tension and ease stiffness that often builds up from long hours of sitting or screen use.

Cat-Cow and Mobility-Focused Movements

Once the body feels warmer, Mishler guides you into a tabletop position for classic cat-cow stretches. This foundational movement encourages you to alternate between arching and rounding the spine, syncing each motion with your breath. The cow pose gently opens the chest, while the cat pose helps stretch the upper back and support spinal strength.

These flowing movements are especially effective for improving upper body flexibility and maintaining a healthy spine. Practiced slowly, they also help build body awareness and ease tension stored in the back and shoulders.

Spinal Twists for Deep Tension Release

The session also includes a series of slow, controlled spinal twists. Highlights include a relaxed thread-the-needle stretch and a seated raised-arm twist. These poses are designed to improve spinal mobility, gently stretch the shoulders, and create a satisfying release through the upper back.

By moving with intention and breath, these twists help the body feel lighter and more open, making them especially helpful after long periods of inactivity or mental stress.

Why Short Yoga Sessions Can Reduce Stress

Beyond improving flexibility, yoga is widely known for its ability to lower cortisol levels and reduce stress. Research published in the International Journal of Preventive Medicine highlights yoga’s effective role in stress reduction, along with benefits such as improved mood and reduced anxiety. As Mishler’s practice shows, even 10 to 13 minutes of simple, mindful movement can make a meaningful difference in how both the body and mind feel.

Every winter, there are a few wardrobe pieces I rely on without fail: a sharply tailored coat, a soft cashmere sweater, and a pair of beautifully crafted leather boots. They instantly make an outfit feel polished and refined. That same sense of effortless sophistication is exactly what navy nails bring. Much like the little black dress of manicures, a navy polish is a true cold-season classic.

Deep yet cozy, understated yet elevated, navy delivers a sense of quiet elegance that many clients are drawn to right now. Nail artist and educator Sofiia Mazur explains that navy offers a polished, put-together luxury feel. She notes that it pairs seamlessly with winter textures like wool, velvet, and subtle sparkle, and looks striking alongside silver, gold, or even neutral shades.

Among endless winter nail ideas, navy stands out for balancing timeless appeal with modern edge. Celebrity nail artist Julia Nadtoka describes it as a shade that belongs in the same category as red or classic French tips. Its rich depth and layered dimension make it universally flattering across nail lengths, shapes, and skin tones.

A Celebrity-Approved Navy Moment

Hailey Bieber remains a constant source of nail inspiration. While glazed donut finishes and playful patterns continue to trend, one standout look stays memorable—a sleek, glossy navy manicure created by pro nail artist Zola Ganzorigt using OPI’s Inteligel shade Midnight Mantra. It’s a refined take that feels modern yet enduring.

For a fully opaque navy, nail artist and Gelcare founder Émilie Sanscartier prefers a clean, high-gloss finish. She explains that many dark blues lean too close to black or rely on shimmer, while her vision of navy is pure, classic, and deeply refined—the kind of shade she always wanted to wear as a nail professional.

Subtle Ways to Wear Navy

Embracing navy doesn’t require a full solid manicure. Even a small touch can deliver serious style. Nadtoka suggests using navy as an accent color over sheer nude or milky white bases. Abstract swirls or geometric details add interest while keeping the look soft and understated.

Minimal navy accents can instantly elevate a simple manicure. Mazur points out that navy appears beautifully in micro French tips, fine abstract lines, or tiny dots. Paired with metallic or shimmer elements—especially gold or chrome—the result feels editorial and modern. Mixing reflective finishes with a French tip design creates a particularly striking effect.

Replacing Black with Midnight Blue

For those craving dark, moody winter nails, deep blue shades are stepping in for traditional black. Mazur notes that the current clean aesthetic favors solid colors without elaborate designs. A midnight navy that nearly appears black in certain lighting offers drama without harshness. To finish, a glossy top coat is essential, adding a mirror-like shine that enhances the depth of the color.

Inspired by the look of well-worn denim, this softer version of navy feels relaxed yet stylish. Christian David, founder of Kure Bazaar, highlights navy’s versatility—it works just as well with casual jeans and knits as it does with an elegant black dress and bold red lipstick. Its adaptability makes it a go-with-everything shade.

Textured and Artistic Navy Designs

Cat eye nails continue to dominate, and in a deep blue tone, they feel even more captivating. Nadtoka recommends starting with a navy jelly base to achieve a glass-like, dimensional effect. The result evokes a cosmic depth that feels both dramatic and refined.

For a celestial finish, metallic details in gold or silver add intrigue. Nadtoka describes navy as having a magnetic, crisp energy, reminiscent of dark winter skies or deep ocean waters.

Plaid patterns offer another stylish way to embrace navy without committing to a solid look. Sanscartier loves using jewel tones and muted whites to create layered, dimensional designs inspired by classic Ralph Lauren aesthetics.

Another standout technique is the airbrushed aura manicure. Nadtoka favors a black base with a soft navy glow at the center, creating a diffused, luminous effect that feels subtle yet breathtaking.

Golf training can take many different paths, from cardiovascular workouts that boost stamina on the course to plyometric movements that increase swing speed, along with mobility and stretching drills that refine swing mechanics. With so many options available, it’s natural to wonder where to begin.

The Three Core Golf Fitness Fundamentals

According to Golf Digest Certified Fitness Trainer Justin Barr, effective golf training comes down to three essential elements. First, you must learn to intentionally separate upper- and lower-body movement. Second, you need to activate and forcefully contract the glute muscles. Third, you should use the ground as leverage to properly sequence the swing and generate explosive power.

Focusing on these three core principles—what Barr calls the “FUNdamentals”—puts you on a clear path toward developing a more efficient and powerful golf swing. These fundamentals are particularly helpful for beginner golfers as they start to grasp what a proper swing truly requires.

Training for Automatic, Effortless Movement

As with any sport, the ultimate goal is to train until the movement becomes automatic and instinctive. Barr, who works with golfers in Jupiter, Florida, emphasizes building patterns that require minimal conscious effort. With that approach in mind, he recommends three specific exercises designed to improve swing sequencing and deliver a noticeable power boost.

These exercises can easily be added to an existing routine or used as the base of a new workout program. When performed in order and following Barr’s guidelines, the entire sequence should take just five to ten minutes.

Pancakes to Cupcakes

This exercise teaches your body to generate swing power through the glutes by training each side to work independently. Lie flat on the ground like a pancake, placing your hands beneath your glutes. Forcefully squeeze one side of your glute muscles and lift your pelvis quickly, forming the rounded top of a cupcake. Slowly lower your pelvis back down using the same glute.

Barr suggests visualizing the upward motion as switching on a bright LED light, then using a dimmer switch to gradually reduce the brightness on the way down. You should move from flat glutes to a strong, rounded muscular contraction. Perform five repetitions per side, with each rep lasting about six seconds—one second up and five seconds down.

Wall-Supported T-Spine Rotations

This movement trains your torso to rotate independently from the lower body, a critical skill for properly loading during the backswing. Stand close to a wall or similar support and cross your arms over your chest. Lift your left foot (or right foot for left-handed golfers) and place it against the wall.

Keep your lower body as still as possible while rotating your upper body as though you’re making a backswing. Perform this drill for two minutes, alternating which foot is supported and the direction of rotation, always rotating toward the planted leg. Complete five slow, controlled reps in each direction.

Load and Explode (Fast-Track Swing Feel)

This exercise helps you feel the loading and release of power from backswing to through-swing. Ideally, use a resistance band around the lead leg and a soft object under the lead foot to press into, though the movement can also be done without equipment.

Barr refers to this drill as the “Clark Kent to Superman” transition. Start in your golf address position with your hands placed on your sternum, as if preparing to pull your shirt open. While pressing into the object under your lead foot, simulate a backswing, then transition into a through-swing.

Perform 10 repetitions in each direction, switching the band and foot placement. Hold the loaded backswing position for six seconds before explosively moving into the through-swing. Without a band, imagine rotating back with control, then firing powerfully in the opposite direction as if transforming into Superman, adding energy and intent to each repetition.

It may surprise some people, but I’m slightly obsessed with curling my eyelashes. Not to an extreme level, but enough to admit it’s part of my daily routine. I love how a single tool can instantly open up almond-shaped eyes and give naturally straight lashes a soft, feminine lift. While most makeup artists advise curling lashes only before mascara, I take a careful risk. After my first curl and once mascara has fully dried, I gently curl them again. Even on rushed mornings, I keep an extra curler in my bag at all times. That said, this is truly a “do as I say, not as I do” situation, because I’ve seen too many horror stories of curlers pulling out lashes.

Why the Right Eyelash Curler Truly Matters

If there’s anyone who can tell a great eyelash curler from a disappointing one, it’s me—alongside professional artists like celebrity makeup artist Adam Sidwell. He explains that eyelash curlers are essential tools that support lash structure and enhance eye shape, helping the eyes appear refreshed and well-rested. Makeup artist and Sweed Beauty founder Gabriella Elio agrees, noting that a good curler instantly makes the eyes look awake and lifted.

Not All Eyelash Curlers Are Created Equal

Every eyelash curler is different, and subtle design features make a big impact. Elements like pad shape, clamp tension, eye fit, and lash compatibility determine whether you get a long-lasting curl or an uncomfortable pinch. I’ve tried curlers that barely worked and others that delivered dramatic lift in seconds. Below is a breakdown of the best eyelash curlers that have been tested, reviewed, and approved by experts for various eye shapes and lash types.

Best Overall Eyelash Curler

Shiseido Eyelash Curler

The Shiseido Eyelash Curler is a long-standing favorite among professionals and beauty lovers alike. Gabriella Elio praises its firm structure and ability to curl lashes beautifully. With a 4.7-star rating at Nordstrom, it’s known for delivering a strong, lasting curl.

An ELLE editor shares that this curler transformed her routine, lifting even short, straight lashes so high they nearly touch her brows. Its straighter edge allows for a secure grip at the lash base, creating a fuller lift that lasts all day, especially when paired with waterproof mascara.

Best No-Tug Eyelash Curler

Kevyn Aucoin The Eyelash Curler

Recognizable by its red padding, this curler features a wide opening and gentle curve that fits comfortably on all eye shapes. Its slim, lightweight design ensures a pinch-free, tug-free experience, even when curling close to the lash line.

An ELLE editor notes that despite having short lashes and almond-shaped eyes, this curler never pulls or pinches. The bright padding improves visibility, while the professional-quality materials ensure a long-lasting lift.

Best Value Set

This duo includes Tarte’s eyelash curler and a mini Lights, Camera, Lashes mascara, making it a great value. The purple silicone pad applies even pressure for a consistent, fluttery curl.

An ELLE editor admits the grip took some getting used to, but once mastered, the curler delivered beautifully lifted lashes that looked long, soft, and wispy—especially when finished with mascara.

Best for Almond and Hooded Eyes

Tweezerman ProMaster Lash Curler

Designed specifically for almond-shaped eyes, this curler rests comfortably against the lid to lift and lengthen lashes evenly. It’s widely available and easy to find.

Celebrity makeup artist Vincent Oquendo highlights how the rose-gold finish makes lashes easy to see, allowing better control over the curl.

Best for Lengthening

Hourglass Lash Curler

This sleek, lightweight curler is designed to reach even the shortest lashes. For best results, gently press along the lashes from root to tip.

Adam Sidwell praises the subtle curve of the rubber pad, noting that it gently grips individual lashes while offering an artistic, architectural design.

Best for Long-Lasting Curl

Shu Uemura Iconic Eyelash Curler

This legendary curler has earned its reputation for delivering consistent, all-day curl. Loved by celebrity makeup artists and beauty fans alike, it’s known for making eyes look instantly more awake.

An Amazon reviewer describes it as reliable and flawless, calling it a must-have tool that never disappoints.

Best Lightweight Eyelash Curler

Sweed Beauty Eyelash Curler

This lightweight yet durable curler grips each lash effectively, delivering a noticeable lift in a single squeeze.

Gabriella Elio notes that it provides a beautiful curl and lift that lasts throughout the day.

How to Curl Your Lashes Safely

According to Adam Sidwell, the safest way to curl lashes is before applying mascara. Curling after mascara increases the risk of damaging or pulling out lashes.

Gabriella Elio recommends curling as close to the lash base as possible and pressing three times—inner, center, and outer corners—for wide eyes. For smaller eyes, two presses are usually enough.

What to Look for in an Eyelash Curler

When choosing an eyelash curler, focus on three key factors. First, the rubber pad should be cushioned and springy, bouncing back when pressed. Second, the curler should feel comfortable and secure in your hand to prevent slipping. Lastly, a subtle curve in the rubber band makes it easier to reach the lash roots and grip lashes evenly.

Meet the Experts

Adam Sidwell is a professional makeup artist and International Pro Artist for Hourglass Cosmetics.

Gabriella Elio is a makeup artist and the founder of Sweed Beauty.

How We Tested These Eyelash Curlers

For this guide, ELLE.com beauty writer Emma Aerin Becker consulted professional makeup artists, tested multiple eyelash curlers firsthand, and analyzed customer reviews. Each curler was evaluated based on performance, comfort, durability, and user feedback.

Why Trust ELLE Beauty

ELLE Beauty combines expert insight, real-world testing, and trusted reviews to recommend products that deliver reliable, proven results.

Now in her mid-40s, Laurel has one clear priority: getting stronger. Her approach is straightforward—no filler, no wasted effort, and no emphasis on shrinking her body. The focus is intentional strength training that feels manageable, even with a packed schedule. That means efficient workouts, smart programming, and no spending endless hours at the gym. This week, she returns with a full-body dumbbell workout designed to build muscle without feeling overwhelming.

Watching the video, the workout is easy to follow from start to finish, especially since Laurel completes every movement alongside you. It genuinely feels like training with a friend. She clearly demonstrates proper form cues, including foot placement and back positioning, making it approachable even if technique isn’t your strong suit. When form starts to slip, she offers built-in modifications and includes intentional rest periods to keep everything sustainable. Now, let’s break it down.

One Session, One Complete Dumbbell Workout for Women Over 40

Full-body strength workouts are especially effective for women 40+ because they maintain lean muscle, support metabolism, enhance posture, and protect joint health—all while saving time. There’s no need for daily training or marathon gym sessions. What matters most is consistent strength work that challenges the body and allows proper recovery. Laurel suggests doing this routine two to three times weekly, paired with daily movement like walking and adequate protein intake to aid muscle repair.

How the Full-Body Workout Is Structured

This routine is built around controlled, purposeful movement. Each exercise emphasizes form over speed, steady breathing, and mindful execution rather than rushing through repetitions. The structure keeps the workout efficient while still delivering results.

• 5 compound exercises
• 10 repetitions per move
• 3 total rounds
• 1-minute rest between rounds
• Dumbbells only

Exercises Included in the Dumbbell Routine

Sumo Squat with Front Raise to Reverse Fly: Engages the glutes and inner thighs while strengthening the shoulders and upper back, supporting better posture.

Chest Press Crunch: Combines chest and core work, helping the body learn to stabilize effectively under load.

RDL to Reverse Lunge with Alternating Curl: Targets the posterior chain, including glutes and hamstrings, while challenging balance and arm strength.

Plank Row Rotate Press: A total-body stability movement that activates the core, back, shoulders, and arms.

Hollow Body Hold with Tricep Extensions: Strengthens the deep core while firing up the triceps for upper-arm support.

Strength Over Size, Every Time

As Laurel emphasizes, this routine isn’t about pursuing a smaller body. It’s about building strength with intention. The answer isn’t more cardio or eating less—it’s purpose-driven strength training done consistently. For more follow-along routines like this, you can explore Laurel’s fitness channel, where she regularly shares workouts designed to fit seamlessly into real life.

As seasoned beauty editors, we bring years of industry insight to Beauty School—a series designed to share step-by-step tutorials, practical beauty and wellness tricks, honest product recommendations, and more to help you look and feel your best. Expect plenty of useful advice, a little real-life honesty, and absolutely no gatekeeping. Beauty School is friendly, informative, and open to everyone—so let’s dive in.

Everyone has a standout feature. For me, it’s my long, blonde hair, inherited from my mom. On good days, it boosts my confidence—but without proper care, it can quickly turn into a frizzy, tangled mess. For this second chapter of Beauty School, I’ve gathered the most effective tips I’ve learned over the years to maintain healthy, compliment-worthy hair without investing endless time or effort. One tip might even surprise you, but I’m sharing it anyway—secrets aren’t my thing.

Pro-Approved Hair Tips From Beauty Editors

To support these tips, I also consulted some of the best professionals in the industry. No matter your hair type or color, there’s something here for everyone—so let’s get started.

How to Ask for Low-Maintenance Highlights

The person behind my sun-kissed, buttery-blonde highlights for the past three years is Rita Hazan, celebrity colorist and founder of Rita Hazan Salon in New York City. Trusted by stars like Beyoncé, Jennifer Lopez, Mariah Carey, and Jessica Simpson, she shared exactly what to request if you want Hollywood-worthy color that’s easy to maintain.

• Stick close to your natural base: Hazan recommends going no more than two to three shades lighter so the color looks natural as it grows out.
• Choose blended, multi-tonal highlights: Using two or more tones adds dimension and helps new growth blend seamlessly.
• Refresh strategically: Opt for a quick refresh every few months instead of full highlights each visit.

The Right Haircut Can Save You Time

Your haircut can be the difference between 20 minutes of daily styling and a quick brush-and-go routine. According to Miguel Luis, hairstylist at Rita Hazan Salon, the key is embracing your natural texture and choosing a shape that looks polished with minimal effort.

• Wavy hair: Soft face-framing layers with medium layers in the back create effortless movement.
• Straight hair: A blunt cut delivers a clean, strong line, while longer front layers add subtle dimension.
• Curly hair: Tailored shapes—round or angular—should match both lifestyle and personal style.

Why Color-Safe Shampoo Actually Matters

Hazan recommends using a color-safe shampoo—purple for blondes or blue for brunettes—along with a weekly gloss or hair mask to maintain tone and hydration. I used to doubt purple shampoo, but after trying it, I was amazed at how it extended the life of my highlights.

Colored shampoos work by neutralizing unwanted tones using opposite shades on the color wheel. Purple shampoo deposits violet pigments to counteract yellow and brassy hues, leaving blonde hair brighter and more vibrant.

The Power of Hair Oils and Masks

I’ll admit it—I underestimated hair oils and masks for far too long. According to Antoinette Beenders, senior vice president of global professional artistry at Aveda, these treatments deliver both visible results and a moment of self-care.

• Multi-use oils: Oils enhance shine while offering conditioning, smoothing, heat protection, and frizz control. They can be used pre-shampoo, overnight, or during styling.
• Targeted masks: Masks provide focused solutions such as deep hydration, repair, strengthening, scalp care, and curl support.

Healthy Hair Starts With Nutrition

Hair health isn’t just about products—what you eat matters. When I wasn’t nourishing my body properly, my hair lost its shine, thickness, and even began to shed. Once I adjusted my diet, my hair recovered, proving how important internal nourishment truly is.

• Protein: Foods like eggs and legumes supply keratin and amino acids essential for strong hair.
• Omega-3s: These fats enhance shine and nourishment. Sources include fatty fish or plant-based options like chia seeds, flaxseeds, walnuts, and hemp seeds.
• Hydration: Proper water intake keeps hair follicles hydrated, supports moisture retention, and promotes healthy growth.

My Heat-Free Styling Routine

Here’s my final confession: I don’t own any heat styling tools. Limiting heat has played a major role in keeping my hair healthy and has simplified my mornings. Instead, I rely on these easy styles:

• Updos: Ballet buns and ponytails keep hair out of my face.
• Braids: French and Dutch braids always earn compliments.
• Accessories: Claw clips, duckbill clips, and headbands elevate any look.

In short: Feed your hair from within, choose cuts and color that work with your natural texture, and minimize heat to protect your strands long term.

I’ve always kept my beauty routine fairly simple. However, there’s no ignoring the fact that skin changes with age — particularly once oestrogen levels drop — and it begins to demand extra attention. I turned 62 over the holidays, and while cosmetic procedures weren’t on my agenda, I’ve become far more aware of what mature skin truly needs. Wrinkles and age spots are part of the process, and I’ve made peace with that, though I admit I could be more disciplined about daily SPF. Combined with the UK’s current Arctic-style temperatures, my skin has felt especially dry and weather-stressed.

Moisturisers That Truly Deliver

Perfect timing brought a thoughtful Christmas gift from the team at Kate Somerville, and I’ve been enjoying the results ever since. While the Total Repair Cream comes with a hefty price tag, its light, refreshing scent and noticeable brightening effect have made it a pleasure to use. After just a couple of weeks, my skin appeared more refreshed. A colleague — devoted to Augustinus Bader — also tested the Kate Somerville Goat Milk Moisturising Cream and was equally impressed. For nighttime, I’ve been relying on No7 Future Renew Night Cream, which performs beautifully without stretching the budget.

Calming Care for Sensitive Skin

During a visit to my mum in early December, it was clear her skin was struggling. She experiences mild rosacea on her cheeks, which had worsened in the cold. A quick stop at Tesco led us to Weleda Skin Food Light, and within weeks, the soothing blend of calendula and chamomile noticeably calmed her irritation.

Make-Up Artists Over 50 Share Their Trusted Moisturisers

To kick-start the year with healthy, nourished skin, I asked five respected make-up artists over 50 to reveal the moisturisers they trust daily — including the ones they personally use. Below are their expert recommendations.

Ruby Hammer, 64

Age isn’t a skin type — it’s simply a number. What matters most is how your skin feels and behaves. Pay close attention to whether it feels dry, tight, dull, or uneven, and let those cues guide your product choices rather than your age.

For intensive repair, I favour formulas rich in peptides, ceramides, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid. These ingredients help strengthen the skin barrier, enhance hydration, improve tone, and restore softness. A rich night cream with a buttery texture and gentle scent can turn skincare into a comforting ritual, leaving skin plumper, smoother, and more resilient over time.

If simplicity appeals, a mid-range moisturiser featuring niacinamide, glycerin, and squalane can be just as effective. Look for a silky, quick-absorbing formula that keeps skin comfortable and works well under makeup. Luxury favourites include Skinceuticals Triple Lipid Restore and Augustinus Bader The Rich Cream, while L’Oréal Age Perfect and No7 Future Renew deliver excellent results on the high street.

Ultimately, consistency matters more than complexity. Understanding your skin and supporting it with the right formulas will always pay off.

Louise Heywood, 52

My skincare routine always centres on a quality serum paired with a moisturiser. I invest more in the serum and follow it with an affordable, reliable cream. For dry skin, serum is especially crucial — particularly during winter, when cold air and indoor heating strip moisture.

The serum tackles the main concerns, while the moisturiser locks everything in. With very dry skin, I rely on La Roche-Posay Cicaplast B5 Serum, followed by Bioderma Sensibio Defensive Rich Soothing Cream in the morning and Cetaphil Rich Night Cream at night.

Carl Stanley, 57

An excellent budget-friendly, all-season option is L’Oréal Age Perfect Collagen Expert Day Cream SPF30. It feels luxuriously rich at first, yet absorbs quickly without residue. Designed for over-50s, it helps reduce age spots and includes SPF 30 protection. It’s also easy to find in supermarkets and often available at a discount.

For extra hydration, I always suggest pairing moisturiser with a serum. RoC Retinol Correxion Wrinkle Correct Serum has a lightweight texture and, unlike many retinol products, is gentle on sensitive skin. By morning, skin feels softer, smoother, and more supple. Its capsule format also makes it perfect for travel.

Anna Durston, 53

I’m a loyal fan of La Roche-Posay Hydraphase UV SPF25. It offers excellent hydration, boosted by hyaluronic acid. There are two versions — a lighter formula for oily skin or those who dislike heavy creams, and a richer option for dry skin. I switch between them, using the lighter version in summer and the richer one in winter.

With minimal fragrance and SPF 25, it’s ideal for sensitive skin and provides reliable daily protection during colder months.

For combination or oily skin, Pai Skincare The Pioneer Mattifying Moisturiser strikes a great balance. It preps skin beautifully for makeup and has a subtle, fresh scent of geranium and thistle. Pai’s organic, vegan formulas are designed for sensitive skin and are suitable for those undergoing or recovering from chemotherapy.

When winter dryness intensifies, The Moisturiser by Skin Rocks, created by Caroline Hirons, is deeply nourishing. Packed with ceramides and lipid-based oils, it strengthens the skin barrier and locks in moisture. While it’s an investment, it feels indulgent and comforting. It can double as a night cream if too rich for daytime use and is available with or without fragrance.

Julie Read, 60

Lately, I’ve been reaching for affordable Nivea classics, readily available at Boots, Superdrug, and supermarkets. My favourite is the Q10 Power Anti-Wrinkle + Firming Day Cream. Its lightweight texture absorbs quickly and starts working immediately.

Another winter essential is La Roche-Posay Nutritic Intense Riche, known for its gentle scent and rich consistency — perfect when skin feels extra dry. For a more indulgent nighttime treat, I turn to Sunday Riley Ice Ceramide Moisturising Cream, a deeply hydrating formula with a soft fragrance that works beautifully overnight.

Professional bodybuilding has long sparked debate around performance-enhancing drugs, and veteran champion Dennis Wolf has recently offered candid insights into finding balance for long-term success in the United States. Drawing from years at the elite level, Wolf reflects on how smart choices, discipline, and timing shape not just physiques, but careers that last. Rather than glorifying extremes, his perspective highlights sustainability in a sport known for pushing limits. For fans and aspiring competitors alike, his discussion opens a more realistic conversation about health, strategy, and longevity on bodybuilding’s biggest stages.

Dennis Wolf on PED Balance in Modern Bodybuilding

Dennis Wolf explains that PED use in professional bodybuilding has never been about excess alone, but about understanding dosage awareness, individual response, and long-term planning. He notes that many athletes fail not because of training intensity, but because they ignore how their bodies react over time. According to Wolf, balancing substances with proper recovery, nutrition, and medical oversight separates lasting careers from short-lived fame. He emphasizes that reckless experimentation often leads to burnout or injury, while a measured approach allows competitors to stay competitive across multiple seasons. His message resonates strongly in today’s era, where younger athletes face constant pressure to accelerate results.

Longevity Lessons from Dennis Wolf’s Bodybuilding Career

Reflecting on his own journey, Wolf credits career longevity to structured cycles, health monitoring, strategic breaks, and consistent bloodwork. He shares that stepping back at the right time can be just as powerful as pushing forward. Instead of chasing every contest, Wolf focused on preserving joint health, organ function, and mental motivation. These choices allowed him to remain competitive while avoiding the severe setbacks seen in many peers. His experience shows that success in bodybuilding is not only about peak condition on stage, but also about staying functional and motivated year after year.

Professional Bodybuilding Risks and Responsible PED Use

Wolf also addresses the realities of risk, stressing medical supervision, educated decisions, recovery priority, and exit planning as essential elements of responsible PED use. He warns that ignoring warning signs often leads to irreversible damage. By contrast, athletes who treat their bodies like long-term investments tend to transition more smoothly into retirement or coaching roles. Wolf’s perspective reframes PED discussion away from secrecy and toward accountability, urging professionals to think beyond trophies and consider quality of life after competition.

Balanced PED Strategies and the Future of Bodybuilding

As bodybuilding evolves, Dennis Wolf believes the future belongs to athletes who respect career sustainability, health-first mindset, informed guidance, and measured ambition. He argues that the next generation is more open to learning from past mistakes, using science and moderation to extend careers. This shift could redefine what longevity looks like in the sport, making extended competitive runs more common. Wolf’s analysis suggests that while PEDs remain part of professional bodybuilding, wisdom and restraint will increasingly define true champions.

Factor	Short-Term Focus	Longevity Focus
PED Approach	High-risk experimentation	Controlled and monitored use
Health Checks	Occasional	Regular bloodwork
Competition Schedule	Frequent shows	Selective appearances
Career Outcome	Early burnout	Extended longevity

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is Dennis Wolf’s main message about PED use?

He emphasizes balance, medical oversight, and long-term health over extreme short-term gains.

2. Does Dennis Wolf discourage PED use entirely?

No, he encourages responsible and informed use rather than reckless excess.

3. How does PED balance affect bodybuilding longevity?

Balanced use reduces health risks and helps athletes sustain longer professional careers.

4. Who benefits most from Wolf’s advice?

Aspiring and current professional bodybuilders seeking long-term success benefit the most.