August 23, 2019
Body products that help you beat the heat, hope for those who are helpless with false lashes, skincare and makeup that makes back-to-school a breeze and D.S. and Durga's retro way to scent your space.
Don’t let these heat-related concerns get you down
We’re in the homestretch of summer—or at least you might be since today marks the end of our first week of school. No matter where you live (or your school schedule) it’s freaking hot out there, and you’re likely feeling the effects. From chafing to blisters (and more), BodyGlide has a variety of problem-specific products that can help you sidestep the unsavory situations that often come along with summer heat and humidity.
First things first… You might be reluctant to admit that skin-on-skin friction is causing irritation. When I was pregnant and well past my late-September due date, I went to the hospital for what turned out to be a false alarm. The doctor’s prescription: Walk around OUTSIDE the hospital to try to get things moving. This was not my finest hour. After 45 minutes of waddling around in 90+ degree heat and 90+ percent humidity, the insides of my thighs were basically raw. I really wish I’d had BodyGlide’s Skin Glide Anti-Friction Cream. (You can also get similar anti-chafing protection from easy-to-apply, hydrating For Her stick-based formula.) And if you need chafing protection while you’re outside, the Sun version has added broad-spectrum SPF 30.
The original Body Anti-Chafe Balm also prevents irritation caused by skin rubbing—and blisters. When I was younger, I thought blisters were inevitable when wearing new shoes, but over the years I’ve learned they are nobody’s fault but my own. I have several sticks and sprays that I now apply before I leave the house at the first sign of blister potential, and the Foot Glide Anti Blister Balm is a must for the frequent shoe-shopper. This comes in handy not just for summer sandals, but for when you add to your boot collection this fall as well.
The key to optimal comfort in the sweltering summer heat is prevention, and it just takes a little extra effort and a few key products. When you have a chance, check out the BodyGlide website to see how these innovative offerings can help you (and your skin) survive until the temperatures drop. But enjoy the warm weather while you can, because we’ll be complaining about the cold before we know it.
Just when I was about to give up on false lashes…
“Can’t” is not a word I use very often—except for when it comes to liquid eyeliner and applying false eyelashes. As many times as I try, I inevitably fail, and wind up more convinced that these eye-area enhancements just aren’t meant to be (for me, at least). Yet every now and again I get inspired to take another shot, and I can thank Lashify’s Fuse Control Wand for making me want to revisit my rather extensive (but currently useless) stash of false lashes.
I’ve had many makeup artists tell me that tweezers are a must for applying strips and clusters of false lashes—but this tool is most definitely not designed for plucking. As you can see, the handle is curved to hug the contours of your cheek, eyelid and nose bridge to help you place lashes precisely—and the non-slip tip maintains its grip until they are successfully placed.
As the saying goes, “If at first you don’t succeed, try, try again” and this tool may be just what I need for false-eyelash success.
The perfect back-to-school skincare
And just like that, the school year is underway… We’re still perfecting our morning routine, which has required some adjustment since my son no longer pops out of bed at 6:15 like clockwork. Instead, I’m making his breakfast and lunch before heading upstairs to rouse him from his slumber—and trying to find my window to get dressed and semi-ready for the day before drop-off at school. I’ve managed to squeeze in my AM skincare routine but haven’t had the time to get to makeup, but this actually hasn’t been a problem thanks to Natura Bissé’s new Diamond Cocoon Sheer collection.
This moisturizer and eye cream are more than luxurious ways to start the day. In addition to major hydration, age-fighting ingredients, protection against environmental pollution and a much-needed shield from blue light, these skin saviors have a subtle universal tint that evens out skin tone and leaves skin looking radiant. The eye cream has been a major game-changer since it seriously brightens dark circles and lids while sending puffiness and other signs of too little sleep on their way.
My skin has never looked better at 7 a.m. without a stitch of makeup, which means I don’t have to worry about run-ins with teachers or moms—and I can even pop into Starbucks for a coffee without a second thought. In fact, on days I’m more tethered to my desk than not, I’ve been skipping the makeup altogether other than a coat of Glossier Lash Slick and a swipe of my Westman Atelier Baby Cheeks Blush Stick at 2 p.m. before picking up at school.
A different way to scent your surroundings
We’re all familiar with those tree-shaped air fresheners for cars, but probably less-than-likely to actually use one. Sure, they provide a certain level of kitsch while masking odors of unknown origin (if you have kids it’s inevitable), yet they aren’t exactly the pinnacle of chic—unless you opt for D.S. & Durga’s elevated version.
Essentially the same concept but a heck of a lot cooler, I actually use one in my closet for a breath of fresh air every time I walk in. Available in “Big Sur After Rain,” “Holy Ficus” and “Portable Fireplace” (I bought all three), they’re ideal for any small space that isn’t conducive for a candle, diffuser or plug-in. You can obviously use them in your car, too—or strap one of those pods on the roof to transport stinky sporting equipment (and tween/teenage boys after practices and games). You’re welcome!