Top 3 Reasons To Support Cruelty-Free Products

When looking at your favorite little furry friend, cat, dog, bunny, etc., can you ever imagine doing anything to harm them? Animal testing subjects familiar animals and breeds to unnecessary and inhumane torture for the sake of profits.

According to the organization Cruelty-Free International, over 115 million animals, including dogs and cats, are subject to tests and abuse in labs worldwide. The best way to protest such practices is to purchase cruelty-free products. There are at least three reasons to support cruelty-free brands.

1. Animal Testing Is Unnecessary

While many brands, including cosmetics producers, claim animal testing is necessary to prove human safety and efficacy, this is a lie. There are over 7,000 ingredients producers can choose from to formulate their products that are deemed safe. The extensive list is more than enough to create many products, but producers want to make more money.

The only reason manufacturers still favor animal testing is for financial gains. If a company can find a new chemical or compound, it can call itself innovative, regardless of the uniqueness of the discovery. Animals are often mistreated in the pursuit of chemicals and compounds that act similarly or identically to other proven and known compounds, meaning testing is abuse for profit.

Additionally, alternative testing practices, including in vitro and computer model testing, are equally effective compared to animal testing and are frequently more advantageous. Animal testing is unnecessary.

2. Animal Testing Is Cruel

Many people do not realize the extent of the cruelty animals experience during testing. The animals are often locked in inadequately sized cages. They are blinded, maimed, tortured, and killed. Their lives are nothing but suffering and fear.

Governments worldwide are beginning to recognize the mistreatment, torture, and abuse of testing, placing bans on the practice. Israel, New Zealand, Norway, India, and the EU have banned animal testing. Unfortunately, the U.S. still allows the practice.

In many laboratories, beagles are favored as test subjects because of the breed's docile nature. In 2013, 67,772 dogs and 24,221 cats were subjects of tests. As with any other laboratory animal, these domesticated species were deprived of the fundamental rights we allow our pets.

Choosing cruelty-free products is not an immediate resolution to animal testing, but it does send a message to brands that consumers are against the practice. With enough focus and pressure from consumers about cruelty-free options, businesses, politicians, and brands might take a closer look at animal testing and reassess it.

3. Cruelty-Free Is Environmentally Friendly

Many consumers want natural products, items with fewer additives and formulated compounds. Truly natural products can have less impact on the environment when produced or eventually discarded. Average cosmetic products can lead to toxic interactions with the environment when washed down the drain or discarded.

Additionally, the parabens and sulfates used in many products can be harmful to you in the long term. They can lead to increased signs of aging and other skin issues.

Cruelty-free products are better for you, the environment, and animals. The number of animals residing in labs and subjected to abuse and neglect is staggering. You can make a difference.

Do you use cruelty-free products? If not, will you start? 

Understanding “Clean Beauty” In The Cosmetics Industry

Natural, organic, chemical-free; all are terms used to describe cosmetics brands at one time or another. However, it wasn’t until companies started labeling their products as clean that consumers jumped aboard the trend.

The consumer interest is shocking because there is no real definition of the term “clean” when used in cosmetics, and there is no regulatory authorization needed to advertise products in such a way. Yet, for some reason, consumers have put complete faith in these supposed “clean” beauty products and brands. The question: is there any real merit to these brands and the growing “clean” trend?

What Does “Clean” Mean

As stated, there is no regulatory definition when using the term “clean” on beauty products. However, according to industry leaders, the term refers to beauty products that might incorporate safe synthetics but favor natural ingredients.

This is a significant shift from the chemical-free and natural cosmetics of the past. Before, there seemed to be a consensus that chemicals were bad, even when science suggested otherwise. Today, it appears that beauty brands are accepting the science that some synthetics are safe for people and the planet.

There are still several ingredients that most brands stay away from, including formaldehyde-releasing agents and parabens. In other words, producers tend to shy away from ingredients with a controversial past, but even that is not definitive because not every brand agrees on the dangers of specific ingredients.

The only entity that can help clarify the “clean” movement is the Food and Drug Administration. Unfortunately, the FDA does not have a definition or rules pertaining to the term. Additionally, under current regulations, a cosmetics company is not required to test or seek preapproval for the majority of its ingredients, further blurring the lines of what is or isn’t “clean.”

The Motivation Behind the Clean Movement

In recent years, consumers have become increasingly aware of the number of chemicals they expose themselves to on a daily basis, especially in the United States. Currently, the U.S. only bans or restricts 11 chemicals in cosmetics as opposed to the EU, which bans approximately 1,300.

The growing awareness has led to an increased demand for so-called clean cosmetics, which most brands were happy to oblige. Unfortunately, without the support of the FDA or other regulatory agencies, cosmetics brands can still use a vast amount of chemicals, even in “clean” products.

While most popular brands likely act in good faith, the lack of definition and regulation still presents a significant problem for overtly trusting consumers, especially when bombarded with a growing pool of profit-motivated competition.

The cosmetic and beauty industry is a $19 billion market, and that number is only expected to grow. While no one argues that cosmetic companies have a right to earn a profit, there is hesitancy to support the “clean” claims and misleading advertising campaigns.

Consumers have a right to be informed about what they are applying to the skin, especially when the average woman uses a minimum of 11 skincare and makeup products per day. While the beauty industry is a for-profit industry, it is crucial that the U.S. government, like other governments, steps up and begins regulating chemicals and defining terms within the cosmetics industry.

What do you think of the “clean” beauty movement? Do you think the U.S. government should play a more significant role?

Can Positive Stress Really Be Good for Your Body?

The idea of stress that is good for you seems weird. You’re probably thinking that the words “positive” and “stress” don’t even belong in the same sentence. But it’s true: certain types of stress produce beneficial effects instead of negative ones.

What Is Positive Stress?

We’re not talking about situations that make you feel terrified or anxious. Instead, healthy stress is associated more with activities that are challenging but also produce excitement, fun and happiness.

Positive stress makes life worth living. It’s about overcoming obstacles. It’s about celebrating accomplishments. It’s about trying new experiences. Positive stress gives every day more zing.

What Are Your Healthy Stress Sources?

Everyone views stress in a different way. Some writers love deadlines and get more done with them (I’m not one.) Do any of these situations get your blood flowing in a good way?

  • Work assignments
  • Fixing your car
  • Flying
  • Having a baby
  • Preparing for vacation
  • Working out
  • Taking care of DIY projects
  • Throwing a party

Someone who loves working on automobiles will probably see taking care of minor repairs as something enjoyable. That’s positive stress.

The same thing goes for dating. Falling in love makes your heart beat in a good way. You stay awake at night, maybe a little anxious, but mostly because you’re excited and can’t wait to see the person again.

What Are the Benefits of Positive Stress?

Unlike chronic stress, which weakens your immune system, gives you headaches and triggers inflammation, positive stress has great effects on your mind and body:

  • It motivates you: Reaching your goals can give you a sensation that’s even better than chocolate. It can give your life meaning. It also improves your self-esteem. Running a business can be stressful, but for entrepreneurs, it’s really rewarding to see their company flourish.
  • It improves your creativity: Feeling excited about a project helps you produce better results. My best work is always with topics that I feel passionate about. A little positive stress can help you come up with incredible ideas and solutions, too.
  • It feels amazing: If you’ve ever heard about sports enthusiasts talking about the “adrenaline rush,” that’s what positive stress is. Whether you’re into skydiving, rock climbing, skiing or snowmobiling, adrenaline makes your brain happy.
  • It helps your immune system: Excitement is good for your body’s defenses. Science has shown that good stress activates your immune cells and even helps your body heal faster after injuries. That’s one reason why doctors often recommend that people who are depressed take the time to exercise regularly.
  • It gives you energy: When you have a goal you’re trying to reach, your body literally feels more energized. Imagining yourself fitting into that tight red dress can give you the energy you need to swim, bike, hike or Zumba like never before.

How Can You Boost Positive Stress Levels?

Personally, I find that being a mom is my source of positive stress. I’m nervous sometimes, but also excited and happy. Hearing that “I love you Mommy” is irresistible, and according to science, it’s good for my health, too!

Get more positive stress in your life by doing things that are worth it to you, things that are exciting. Set aside more time for family adventures.

Go on a road trip. Ride a roller coaster with your eyes closed. Try new recipes. Make new friends. Visit new places. Zumba. Find something to be excited about every day!

Do Most Coffee Creamers Have Dangerous Chemicals?

I’m a “no sugar, two creams, please” type of girl. So you can imagine my surprise when a friend of mine sent me an article saying that coffee creamers aren’t good for you — more than that, they’re downright dangerous! Every fiber of my being wanted to shout “that’s blasphemy!” Are coffee creamers really bad for you?

What’s In Your Favorite Coffee Creamer?

The first shocker for me is that most coffee creamers are loaded with sugar — more than a teaspoon per serving! But that’s not the worst part by a long shot:

Hydrogenated Oil

This is just another name for trans fats. To make this artificial fat, manufacturers add powdered nickel or other metals to vegetable oil. Hydrogenated oil adds a "creamier" texture. According to the FDA, partially hydrogenated oils are not Generally Recognized as Safe in food. They raise bad cholesterol levels and increase your risk of heart disease, stroke and type 2 diabetes.

Cellulose Gel

I’ll give you a hint: cellulose is another name for “wood.” That’s right, some popular coffee creamers add small amounts of wood pulp to help thicken the consistency of cheaper ingredients. Don’t want wood particles in your coffee? Yeah, me either.

Carrageenan

This additive and preservative is technically “natural” because it comes from a type of moss (mmm!). But carrageenan has been linked to a bunch of health problems, from IBS and bloating to colon cancer and arthritis.

Why do companies use these weird ingredients if they’re so bad for you? Because they’re cheap. Some corporations are happy to make a profit whether it hurts you or not.

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What Are the Best Alternatives to Coffee Creamer?

Now for the good news. There are a lot of tasty, natural and healthy alternatives you can add to your joe. And the flavor is WAY better:

  • Milk: Simple, heathy and easy. Depending on whether you choose whole or 2%, milk isn’t as thick as other options, but it has less total fat and gives you calcium, vitamin D… the whole shebang.
  • Heavy cream: This has more fat than milk (1 tsp has 50 calories), but you also don’t need to use much. This is my favorite option for “treating myself” for the first cup of coffee in the day, but I don’t use it for other cups.
  • Almond milk: Tons of vitamin B12, a creamy texture and a nutty flavor make almond milk amazing for coffee.
  • Coconut oil: If you’re on a keto diet, coconut oil in your coffee is a must. It gives you a rush of energy, boosts your metabolism and provides healthy MCT oil for burning fat. This is how you make Bulletproof coffee at home.
  • Coconut milk: Some brands add a lot of sugar, but you can find coconut milk that is just pureed coconut and water. Trust me, this option is really creamy and it adds an irresistible aroma to your coffee.
  • Unsweetened nut milk: You don’t need to buy an artificial creamer to enjoy hazelnut, vanilla or macadamia nut in your coffee. Just go straight to the source. Macadamia nut milk has all that delicious flavor you want, and zero weird ingredients.

Some cheapskate companies still try to sneak in carrageenan into these natural alternatives, so look at the label before you buy. It’s perfectly possible to enjoy creamy coffee and stay healthy at the same time. Now I’m going to celebrate with … you know what!

7 Surprising Spices That Support Healthy Hair

If you've been into natural beauty since you tinted your tresses with henna in middle school, you've probably tried everything from avocado masks to skin-smoothing shea butter. It's time to revitalize your easy, breezy routine by adding these seven spices to your hair care regimen.

Black Pepper

Pepper up your tresses by applying this go-to spice, which facilitates the flow of blood and nutrients to your scalp and hair follicles. You'll notice your hair remains healthy and strong even as it grows faster than expected. Just mix a tablespoon of black pepper with about 1/4 cup each black castor and coconut oils (organic if possible). Apply it to your scalp for about 20 minutes, then rinse completely before styling those gorgeous locks.

Chamomile

While you're making your next cup of tea, steep some for your hair to revitalize your roots, soothe itching, and moisturize the scalp and strands. You only need to boil a teaspoon of chamomile flower in 1 cup of water and use it to rinse your hair after your next shampoo and condition.

Cinnamon

You know about the sun's unwanted impact on your skin, but you should also be aware of environmental damage to your hair and scalp. In addition to wearing a hat whenever you have a pool day planned, you can use cinnamon to dial back dryness and damage caused by the sun. Because it increases cell turnover and circulation, it also encourages hair growth. To take advantage of this spicy tip, simply stir some cinnamon (a teaspoon or two) into your oatmeal, cereal or morning beverage of choice. You can also mix it with some olive oil and honey to make a salve that will soothe and exfoliate your scalp.

Cumin

In addition to cooking up an amazing curry, cumin can reduce symptoms of dry scalp, help moisturize your mane, and even prevent damage. To try this tip, slowly stir warm water into powdered cumin until you have a pasty texture. Spread the solution on clean hair and relax for 30 minutes, then wash it out, condition, and do your thing.

Gingko Biloba

Ginkgo makes a great rinse if you want to accelerate hair growth. According to research published in Neuroradiology, this herb works by stimulating blood flow to the scalp. Throw a few cups of dried ginkgo Biloba in a pot of boiling water and steep for a few minutes, then use the resulting mixture as a rinse whenever you wash your hair.

Rosemary

Essential oil made from this herb can help with hair growth. However, don't put the formula directly onto your scalp, which can cause irritation. Instead, add a few drops to your shampoo or mix with a gentle, moisturizing oil like sunflower, coconut and jojoba to make a hair mask. A study published in the journal Phytotherapy Research even showed that the spice can shield against pattern baldness by rejuvenating nerves in the scalp.

Mustard

It's not just a sandwich spread - when massaged into your scalp, mustard oil boosts the health of your hair with fatty acids and antioxidants. It has been also used to help hair growth for generations in India since it's rich in nutritious zinc, iron, calcium, and vitamins A, D and E. In addition, studies suggest mustard oil may help shield the scalp from the sun's damaging UV rays. Finally, you can even use this essential substance to treat minor scalp infections and deep condition your tresses.

Next time you feel like your locks are looking a little lackluster, raid your kitchen for any of these seven spices to restore your hair to its most glorious state without leaving your home.

6 Benefits of Avocado for Your Skin

As a superfood, people know avocado has several health benefits. However, the fruit is capable of much more than tasting delicious and contributing to overall health and nutrition. With its impressive list of vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats, avocado can bolster skin health, making it an effective addition to your skincare regimen.

The beauty industry is aware of the many benefits of avocado, which is why avocado oil is a primary ingredient in many skincare lines. The unique makeup of the fruit, including the incredible stores of vitamin A, C, and E, helps the oil penetrate the skin more efficiently than other oils. Also, avocados are high in healthy fats. The nutritional punch and concentration of avocados combine to create a powerful skincare ingredient that promotes several benefits.

1. Avocado Can Soothe Skin Irritation

According to researchers, avocados' fats, vitamins, and compounds help ease surface inflammation and skin irritation. The ingredients can also help repair the skin from chronic conditions like acne and eczema. Some studies also suggest that avocados can even out skin tones and improve chapped skin.

2. Avocados Reduce Acne and Breakouts

Avocado oil also has antimicrobial properties, meaning you can use it as a cleanser. Using products that contain avocado oil can reduce the number of breakouts you experience and their severity. Also, the ingredient can help moisturize the skin, providing a more supple texture.

3. Avocados Prevent Skin Damage

Most people know the sun's UV rays can harm their skin. The damage from too much sun exposure can include premature aging, wrinkles, and skin cancer. According to reports, the combination of vitamin C and E, along with other compounds in avocados, can protect your skin against oxidative stress, which is often a result of sun exposure and other environmental factors.

4. Avocados Can Improve Elasticity

A high intake of healthy fats, primarily monounsaturated fats, can help improve skin elasticity and reduce the appearance of wrinkles. A 2010 study looked at the relationship between diet and skin condition. The study of over 700 women examined the intake of micronutrients, including fats and antioxidants, to determine the effect on the skin, and the results were positive, suggesting improved elasticity.

5. Avocados Prevent Dry Skin and Brittle Hair and Nails

Avocado oil is a wonderful moisturizer and can benefit dry skin. The primary reason for this benefit is biotin. Biotin is part of the vitamin B complex and, when applied topically, prevents dry skin. The compound also contributes to the strength of hair and nails, meaning it can help treat or correct brittleness.

6. Avocados Improve Overall Skin Health

When looking for an avocado-based product to help with overall skin health, look for a topical product with cold-pressed avocado oil as a primary ingredient. Cold-pressed oil maintains an abundance of plant sterols, antioxidants, minerals, omega-9, and vitamins, including C and E. The combination of compounds, nutrients, and minerals increases collagen production and cell turnover and reduces inflammation.

Avocados are more than a superfood. The fruit is also a premier skin treatment and ingredient. If you have not yet used avocado-based skincare products, you should. Talk to your doctor before trying new products or supplements to learn how they might interact with your current health.

Your Sunscreen Selection Could Hurt the Coral Reefs

Everyone knows the sun's UV rays are harmful. The common knowledge of sun damage will propel the sun care market to reach $25 billion by 2024. Unfortunately, while protective, sunscreen products can also damage the environment, specifically the reefs.

Experts estimate that nearly 14,000 tons of sunscreen end up in the ocean annually. The tonnage results from swimmers and excess product rinsed down drains. Additionally, some sunscreens come in aerosol forms. The overspray from aerosols ends up on sandy beaches and washed into the oceans with changing tides.

While sunscreen is essential to maintaining healthy skin, several brands are toxic to marine life. Some governments are working on laws to ban the use of toxic sunscreens. Currently, the primary locations working on bans include:

  • Hawaii 
  • Key west 
  • US Virgin Islands 
  • Palau 
  • Bonaire

The banishment of specific sunscreens is to protect fragile marine life, primarily coral reefs. To some tourists, the banishment of particular products is extreme, but to the local governments, it is essential.

What's the Fuss About Sunscreen? 

The two primary types of sunscreens include mineral (physical) and chemical. A physical sunscreen sits atop the surface of your skin, creating a reflective barrier. Chemical sunscreens absorb UV rays using synthetic compounds. Both products present challenges and hazards to coral reefs and other marine life.

Chemical sunscreens contain harmful compounds, including Oxybenzone, an ingredient found in more than 3,500 products. The compounds used in chemical sun care products result in several problems, including:

  • DNA damage to corals 
  • Abnormal growth and deformities 
  • Coral bleaching

Additionally, researchers conclude that sunscreen is a contributing factor to coral's increased susceptibility to diseases. In the Caribbean Sea, sunscreen contributes to the prevalence of Stony Coral Tissue Loss disease.

Mineral sunscreens may contain nanoparticles so small they absorb into marine life. Even at lower concentrations, the minerals are toxic, resulting in stress and premature death.

What Can You Do To Protect the Reefs and Marine Life?

The easiest way to protect the oceans and marine life is to avoid using toxic sunscreens. That advice is counter to things you have likely heard, but activity in the sun is safe in small doses. You will want to stay in the shade and cover your skin with adequate protection. Additionally, avoid outdoor activity between 10 am and 2 pm because these are the hours of the harshest UV rays.

When you need to wear sunscreen, research the products you use. You will want to avoid aerosols and products with harmful chemicals, specifically:

  • Octinoxate 
  • Oxybenzone 
  • Octocrylene 
  • Benzophenone-1 
  • Benzophenone-8 
  • 4-Methylbenzylidene camphor 
  • OD-PABA 
  • 3-Benzylidene camphor

When choosing a mineral sunscreen, look for one with zinc or titanium oxide. Additionally, you want to find non-nano products.

Finally, look for products that are certified safe for marine life. For example, look for labels with the Protect Land + Sea Certification.

Coral reefs and marine life need your help to survive and thrive. Ensure the products you use and support also support a healthy world for all living things. Also, spread the word about sunscreen products. Every voice can make a difference and help achieve a better world.

7 Natural Stain Removers To Try Before Harsh Commercial Products

Many people are uncomfortable using harsh chemicals to clean their clothing or homes. Unfortunately, when faced with a stain, it is challenging to think of anything more potent than an assortment of chemicals, right?

While people usually turn to strong commercial cleaners for removing stains, they don't have to. It is possible to keep a green laundry routine with several natural products you likely have lying around the house.

1. Baking Soda

Why spend your hard-earned money on expensive commercial cleaners when you probably already have one of the most durable and affordable stain removers in your laundry room or kitchen cabinets: baking soda? According to Arm & Hammer — a baking soda manufacturer — mixing six tablespoons of baking soda with a third cup of warm water is enough to remove some of the toughest stains. As a bonus, baking soda is safe on all fabrics and acts as an odor remover.

2. Lemon and Lime Juice

Both lemon and lime juice can help remove stains on clothing because they contain acetic acid. However, the acid acts as a natural bleaching agent, so you will want to be careful about what fabrics and colors you use it on. Experts suggest only using the juices on white materials and explain both juices can help remove yellowing and rust stains.

3. Hydrogen Peroxide

If you're like most people, you store a bottle of hydrogen peroxide in your medicine cabinet. The oxidizing agent is an excellent bleach substitute and is nowhere near as harsh. While you don't want to use the first-aid disinfectant on colors, it is suitable on white materials for removing yellowing, nail polish dye, red wine and curry stains.

4. Distilled White Vinegar

White vinegar is cheaper than apple cider vinegar and will not stain fabrics. The product is also safer than chlorine bleach and most fabric softeners. Besides using vinegar to clean clothing, you can also use it to clean the washing machine.

5. Table Salt

Some stains require a little elbow grease to eliminate. Salt acts as an abrasive cleaner and is an excellent tool against red wine and rust stains. You can also use salt to absorb liquids before they set.

When using the product to absorb, sprinkle it liberally over a spill. Let it absorb the liquid before brushing it away. Finally, wash the item. If you do not wash the salt out of the article, it can cause white stains.

6. Borax

Borax — a mineral composed of boron, sodium, oxygen and water — is a household cleaner. Experts suggest that adding borax to any detergent can boost the products' cleaning and stain removal abilities. However, the compound can irritate the skin.

7. Cornstarch, Chalk or Talc

Cornstarch, white chalk, baby powder or talcum powder are excellent natural remedies for oily stains. All you need to do is sprinkle your chosen product over the stain and let it sit for 10 minutes before brushing it away. Following treatment, wash the clothing or fabrics as usual.

While commercial cleaners are effective stain removers, they also contain harsh chemicals. If you want a safer method of removing stains, consider one of the seven options above. What do you have to lose?

4 Reasons Why I Prefer Tinted Sunscreen

To protect your skin, you should use sunscreen every time you go out. Unfortunately, messing around with makeup and sunscreen can also be a hassle, especially when you’re in a hurry to get out the door. The good news is that a relatively simple solution makes life easier and keeps skin safe simultaneously: tinted sunscreen.

What Is Tinted Sunscreen?

As the name suggests, an important part of tinted sunscreens are ingredients that help filter out sunlight. These minerals, mainly titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, are the same ones found in traditional sunscreen. They help reflect harmful UV rays.

What makes tinted sunscreen different is the combination of pigments designed to match any skin tone. So whether you’re looking for a rosier or tanner complexion, it’s not hard to find the color you love.

Tinted Sunscreen Versus Beauty Creams and Color-Correction Products

Choosing between beauty creams with SPF-boosting ingredients, tinted sunscreen, foundation, color-correcting creams and other skincare products can be confusing. Each one excels in different areas.

Beauty creams generally provide better hydration and skin-repair ingredients but don’t offer the same UV protection. Ideally, you want an SPF of 30–50 for the face, but many beauty creams only reach SPF 15, which isn’t good enough for something your skin depends on every day.

Color-correcting creams offer maximum complexion control but little help against UV rays. On the other hand, tinted sunscreen provides good coverage and exceptional sun protection, but the tone results don’t quite compare to foundation.

How Safe and Effective Is Tinted Sunscreen?

Tinted sunscreens are just as safe as regular sunscreens. Unless you have an allergy to common ingredients in mascara, beauty products or sunscreen, you shouldn’t have to worry about a thing. Many health professionals and dermatologists, including the Harvard Medical School and the American Academy of Dermatology, recommend using sunscreen for UV protection. Tinted sunscreens are an effective option that can provide several benefits for people with sensitive skin.

Why Use Tinted Sunscreen?

Tinted sunscreens are accessible, convenient and helpful for protecting your skin against sun damage. Here are some of the ways they can help you:

  • Making it easier to wear sunscreen regularly: Applying sunscreen is one of the most important ways to prevent skin cancer. Sadly, it’s easy to overlook when you’re busy. Tinted sunscreens are a breeze to put on, so they may be easier to include in your daily routine.
  • Avoiding the white sheen associated with mineral sunscreens: Many people prefer mineral sunscreens instead of chemical ones, but traditional options leave your skin with a white tinge. Going with tinted sunscreen can give you the beautiful, balanced complexion you want.
  • Reducing dark spots: Unlike chemical sunscreens, tinted sunscreens that contain iron oxide can block visible light, including artificial light. This can help people with skin conditions involving hyperpigmentation, such as being prone to dark spots.
  • Camouflaging blemishes: There’s nothing wrong with wanting to cover blemishes, spots or other imperfections. However, tinted sunscreen products give you the best of both worlds — excellent UV protection and an even skin tone.

What should you look for when selecting brands? Go with something at least SPF 30. Iron oxides offer extra protection against visible light and dark spots. If possible, look for other nourishing skincare ingredients, including moisturizing hyaluronic acid and protective antioxidants like green tea.

Why You Shouldn’t Be Afraid to Randomly Reach Out to Friends

Everyone needs friendship and affection. Calling a friend can be exactly what you need to deal with stressful situations. But, if randomly reaching out makes you nervous, you may be surprised to learn that many friendship worries are just myths.

Myth #1: Your Friends Are Upset With You

Stress does weird things to the brain. It can make you invent imaginary scenarios and replay negative feelings constantly. Worries about friendship are one of the most common fears.

Cut through dark clouds by taking action. Remember that these worries are just a side effect of anxiety. They're not real.

Pick up the phone. You’ll probably be pleasantly surprised by how excited the person is to hear from you.

Myth #2: You Messed Up Texting

You know the drill: You were texting with a friend when your boss called, and you had to rush to the office. Or you wrote a message that sounded great in your head but came out all wrong.

This situation has happened to most people at some point. Your friends have probably done the same thing countless times!

You can still have a great conversation. You just need to break the ice again. Send a humorous or encouraging text message that reminds the person how much you appreciate them.

Myth #3: Friends Shouldn’t Argue Ever

Avoiding arguments with friends is a good goal, but the reality is that it will probably happen at some point. That doesn’t mean the friendship is over.

Real friends are like family members. Being perfect isn’t a realistic requirement.

When you haven’t slept in a week because your kids are sick, it’s understandable to be irritable. That being said, knowing how to apologize and forgive is crucial. Saying “I’m sorry” and sending a cute cat meme is often all that’s needed.

Myth #4: Your Friend Is Avoiding You

There could be a thousand reasons why your friend hasn’t responded, but many people immediately blame themselves. It’s more likely that the person has simply been busier, more distracted or more stressed than usual.

A friendly voice may be precisely what both of you need! Offer to buy a cup of coffee and talk at the park. That way neither has to worry about cleaning the house or getting dressed up for a restaurant.

Myth #5: Your Friend Was Rude to You

Be very careful how seriously you take text messages. Misunderstandings are extremely common.

Text messages are really bad at communicating emotions. Forgetting to include an emoji can make something funny sound sarcastic. Without hearing the other person’s voice, it’s easy to take words incorrectly.

When in doubt, opt for a quick phone call. Asking “How are you today?” can often clear up misunderstandings in seconds.

Myth #6: Too Much Time Has Passed

Time isn't the friendship killer you think it is. Happy memories don't just disappear. You can build on them with new moments.

Don't focus on the time that has passed. Focus on reconnecting.

Real people mature and change, but it only makes them more interesting. The core things that attracted you in the past are still there: good qualities.

The Benefits of Reaching Out

Spending time with friends has many physical and emotional benefits. It can alleviate stress, improve your self-esteem and encourage you to stay fit. Like anything of value, friends take time and effort, but they’re worth it.