Did you realize the role collagen plays in everything from structure to stamina?

Grand View Research projects the global collagen market to reach $18.7 billion by 2030, with a CAGR of 11.3%. Collagen has been trending in food, beverage, and beauty products. Tastewise reported that social conversations about collagen have increased by 7% over the past year. Curious about the latest collagen applications to support your health? Read on!

Collagen & protein hand-in-hand

The collagen market brims with activity. Vital Proteins recently decided to serve up collagen at the U.S. Open! The Nestlé Health Science-owned brand showcased a Collagen & Protein Shake as the tennis championship’s first-ever “Official Collagen Partner.” With 30 grams of protein and 10 grams of collagen peptides per serving, the shake demonstrates the complementary relationship between collagen and protein. In fact, the latest collagen launches feature protein. Urban Remedy introduced two organic, high-protein collagen meal-replacement shakes formulated with organic bovine grass-fed collagen peptides. While both the Chocolate and Vanilla Organic Protein Collagen Shakes include 10 g of organic collagen, they also offer 30 and 28 g of protein, respectively. Refuel Protein Bar has joined the LTH portfolio of collagen-rich products. Per the brand, this “replenishing and energizing bar” provides 15 g of protein, dairy-free grass-fed collagen, and pea protein, with no added sugar!

Unique sources of collagen

Collagen finds its way into novel delivery systems and emerges from unique sources. Post-surgery-like Skims Seamless Sculpt Face Wrap was made with a signature fabric of “collagen yarns.” Recently, Canada-based biopolymer maker 3DBioFibR Inc. closed a $3m round of equity financing for the company’s production of collagen fibers. Ashland has recently launched Collapeptyl, which reportedly offers a new chapter in collagen science by delivering a biomimetic solution that harmonizes with the skin’s natural structure. Symrise offers a selection of unique, collagen-rich ingredients for joint health, carefully produced in a French facility focused on chicken. All-in-one solutions include different types of collagen peptides, combined with chondroitin sulfate and hyaluronic acid from select edible chicken parts. These Symrise raw materials are 2.5% less carbon-emissive than those sourced from beef.

Beauty benefits and beyond

Collagen in skincare continues to capture consumer attention, both for its association with beauty benefits and also for the broader experience it offers. For example,  Biodance Bio-Collagen Real Deep Mask gets praised for its moisturizing and calming properties, with studies suggesting it may help support the skin barrier. Collagen formats are also gaining traction—sheet masks, eye patches, and creams are spotlighted across beauty media. Vogue Business’ Beauty Tracker names Collagen eye patches a leading trend. Elle spotlights the “11 Best Collagen Face Creams for Plumping Fine Lines in 2025.” Meanwhile, Harper’s Bazaar dives into the efficacy debate, featuring dermatologist insights from TikTok’s @dr.mamima on how to choose safe, effective products. To support skin condition & anti-aging, and nail beauty from within, Symrise designed Collachic. This versatile hydrolyzed chicken extract powder is composed of type I collagen peptides and can be used in many beauty formats, including capsules, hot drinks, and shots!

Joint health and mobility

According to Mintel, 64% of UK Baby Boomers (57-75) are interested and willing to pay more for functional foods and beverages that improve muscle and joint health. Symrise recently launched Chondractiv Move, a 4-in-1 collagen and rosehip formula designed for active women over 40, clinically shown to deliver significant results in menopausal women. Symrise continues to expand its science-backed collagen range, offering natural solutions that support daily wellness and the growing collagen hydration trend.

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Do you struggle with short or sparse lashes? You’ve got good company. If eyes make the windows to the soul, lashes grace them as curtains, and everyone wants theirs full and fluttery. Following this longing, lash care has undergone a complete transformation over the last decade. From salon extensions to at-home serums, the options continue to expand. Even Maybelline, the global brand known for mascaras, launched a dedicated site for lash-lengthening tips. TikTok offers plenty of DIY lash videos and quick-fix tutorials. Long, thick lashes help eyes look brighter and more defined. Lacking the natural blessing of volume? Explore the latest trends, tools, and tricks to achieve the lashes of your dreams.

Consider lash shampoo

Lash lift, tint & extensions

Looking to save time in your morning routine? Lash lifts and tints have evolved into a celebrity favorite for good reason. These treatments provide lashes with volume and definition, eliminating the need for extensions or mascara. A gentle solution with active ingredients lifts, curls, and darkens your natural lashes. The best part? You wake up with ready-to-go lashes—no touch-ups required.

The latest variation, the Korean Lash Lift, offers a softer, more mindful approach. It uses a gentler formula that relaxes the lashes, making them easier to shape. We’ve counted nearly 20 styles to choose from, ranging from dramatic upward curls to subtle natural bends. Some even curve slightly downward for the popular “puppy eyes” effect seen in Korea and Japan. The treatment typically lasts about 90 minutes and costs between $75 and USD 150. Curl results last up to eight weeks, while the tint gradually fades after three.

Innovative hacks and mascara formulas

BeautyTok shines a spotlight on underlash, now a go-to technique for enhancing lashes. This method places false lashes beneath natural ones, creating a lifted, more seamless look. Ardell Lashes joins the trend with the Wispies Underlash Kit, featuring 36 segments in four lengths. The set also includes Black Bond, Clear Seal, Remover, and an applicator.

Kiss Falscara, boosted by TikTok and supermodel Paulina Porizkova, delivers lash extension results without the need for a salon visit. On the other hand, natural lashes take center stage—lash trend forecasts for 2025 highlight soft, brown tones. ILIA meets the moment with Limitless Lash Mascara in Before Dawn, a warm brown shade.

Too Faced pushes mascara innovation further. After a 12-year gap since Better Than Sex, the brand launches Ribbon Wrapped Lash Mascara, featuring tubing tech and a molded brush for clean, defined length.

Looking ahead

Lash trends continue to evolve, and consumers are seeking more than bold volume. In a June webinar, SPATE and Beautystreams spotlighted the rise of “no glue” lashes, like sticky strips and magnetic options. Minimal, natural-looking lashes are also gaining popularity. At the same time, the demand is growing for healthier, eye-safe formulas that deliver the full performance.

Symrise continues to push lash care forward with SymLash^® XTreme., an updated formula built on trusted technology. In clinical testing, participants saw up to a 35% increase in lash density after six weeks. The formula supports fuller-looking lashes by nourishing follicles and encouraging natural growth. Its liquid format works well in eyeliners, serums, and brow products—making it easy to add to everyday routines.From minimalist looks to bold DIY styles, the lash space continues to evolve. As beauty routines shift toward smarter, gentler options, the focus turns to innovation that delivers both care and performance—no glue required.

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Dryness, redness, breakouts—sound familiar? You’ve good company. According to market studies 71% of people worldwide claim to experience sensitive skin. A central review of 26 studies across 18 countries confirms this. The upside? More people are paying attention. From the UK to Japan, there’s growing awareness of what skin needs.

Pollution, stress, hormones, and urban living push skin to its limit. This leads to a clear response. Consumers are searching for sensitive skin solutions, dermatologically tested products, and those that feature free-from claims. Sensitive skin today means finding suitable care options. Current solutions combine nature and science. They can help calm, protect, and restore balance. Your skin can thrive with proper support. Read on to explore ingredients promising help.

Bisabolol & ginger provide calming relief

Have you heard of bisabolol? Meet the skin-soothing secret enriching your routine. Derived from chamomile, this calming ingredient promises anti-inflammatory and anti-irritant benefits. Think reduced redness, soothed sensitivity, and stronger skin health. Bisabolol can help strengthen the skin barrier, essential for locking in moisture and blocking daily stressors.

Top brands embrace bisabolol. Paula’s Choice, with headquarters in Seattle and hubs in Singapore, the Netherlands, and South Korea, highlights it throughout their lineup. Cetaphil®, a leader in sensitive skincare, includes this colorless, viscous oil, naturally sourced or synthetically made, across multiple formulas. Formulated with dermatological experts, Cetaphil® products are optimized to protect against the five signs of sensitive skin, backed by clinical studies worldwide on more than 30,000 subjects with sensitive skin. Cetaphil® recently launched a YouTube video: “Cetaphil Skin Care – For Everyone’s Sensitive Skin.” This versatile ingredient can go into cleansers, serums, facial masks, eye creams, and sunscreens!

Another key ancient ingredient said to deliver calming properties, ginger contains known ingredients for skin care. Skip the raw application—ginger offers support when blended into a soothing formula like Innisfree’s Nourishing Cream with Ginger Honey. This rich cream is packed with honey and ginger and shall provide a comforting, skin-loving boost.

For a DIY approach, how about whipping up a biweekly mask of equal parts grated or powdered ginger, honey, and fresh lemon juice. Leave on for 30 minutes, and rinse to reveal well-cared-for skin. You can also boil the same three ingredients to create a stomach-soothing tea because the gut-to-skin connection is said to run deep!

Symrise introduces SymRelief^® green

Symrise has proudly introduced SymRelief^® green—a next-generation, natural-origin solution for intensive skin soothing. This powerful blend combines biotechnology-derived bisabolol with organic ginger extract, expanding Symrise’s natural, calming skincare expertise.

Backed by 70 years of bisabolol expertise, SymRelief^® green uses an optimized ratio of bisabolol and ginger extract. The result? A more effective solution than bisabolol alone in several key areas. This patented, synergistic blend targets multiple root causes of hypersensitivity. It helps prevent inflammation, protects collagen, and supports skin structure, delivering visible and deep relief for sensitive skin.

As demand for holistic, skin-soothing solutions rises, SymRelief^® green sets a new standard in advanced, natural care.

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When did you last apply sunscreen to your scalp? Often overlooked, a major share of sunrays hits the scalp and makes it one of the most sun-exposed parts of the body. At the same time, it hardly ever gets protected. On top, as the highest point on the body, it is directly facing the sun, which makes it especially vulnerable. For those with bald spots or thin hair, the risk rises even more. While a burnt scalp may seem like a minor nuisance, it can lead to serious consequences. Read on to explore why this sun-sensitive zone deserves more attention and how beauty and wellness brands are stepping in with smarter solutions.

Get moving

What makes the scalp so sensitive to sun damage? It gets often exposed without protection, especially along the part line, crown, and hairline. Over time, this exposure can lead to changes in the skin. In some cases, it may increase the risk of skin cancer. Around 80% of annual skin cancers occur on the head and neck. This applies especially to those with fair skin or a history of sun exposure. It presents a real challenge to detect melanomas on the scalp early, making regular checks crucial.

We recommend making your hairstylist a helpful ally. The Skin Cancer Foundation created ‘Heads Up!’, a program that teaches beauty professionals to spot early warning signs. At your next appointment, ask your stylist to flag anything that looks curious. A quick check could help keep your scalp healthy all summer.

New formulations target hairlines and parts

Yes, you need to wear a good sunscreen on your scalp if you plan to go outdoors for an extended period. While your hair provides some coverage, your hairline and part line are subjected to an increased risk of developing cancer, making sun protection critical. Make it your routine to cover babies’ and kids’ scalps too, with their fine hair and vulnerable skin burning fast. Altogether, you should consider applying sunscreen to your scalp an absolute must. While traditional sunscreen lotions and creams may feel unpleasant to apply, new mist and powder formulations – specifically designed for use on the delicate hairline and other sensitive areas – b ring ease of application.

Dermatologists are referring to hair parts as a “high-burn zone,” and recommend scalp-specific protection products as the new summer must-haves! The ideal options need to feature non-greasy, lightweight, and easy to apply formulas. For instance, sunbathers can easily use scalp sprays, such as Coola’s Scalp & Hair Mist without leaving behind residue. Other simple spray options with SPF 30 include Malibu Scalp Protector or this mineral spray, which protects colored hair from fading. Powdered sunscreens offer great protection for the scalp and act like a dry shampoo, leaving no residue, making LFCFBH’s SPF 50 Powder Sunscreen for Scalp a great option. Also with its high sun protection factor, the breathable powder allows the pores “inhale” and “exhale”, maintaining the health of the scalp. Recent entry, Oars + Alps Face + Scalp Mist SPF 35, offers the perfect all-in-one solution for face and scalp.

Check your scalp regularly

Want to know how to aid prevention on your own? Perform regular self-examinations of your scalp to check for any changes in moles, freckles, or other skin abnormalities. Consult a dermatologist if you notice any suspicious or concerning lesions. Symrise has prioritized sun protection throughout its history as a partner to the beauty and skincare industries. For over 80 years, Symrise has lead the field as a pioneer in skin protection, offering a comprehensive portfolio of ingredients that protect against UVA, UVB, and infrared light. As awareness grows, the scalp is finally getting the attention it deserves in the sun care conversation.

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Soap may seem like an everyday staple. We find its story particularly remarkable. With roots stretching back thousands of years, soap has served as so much more than a mere tool for cleanliness. It symbolized luxury, art, and culture. From ancient Babylon to modern Paris, soap can do more for you than washing. It connects to the past, indulges in beauty, and transforms a daily ritual into something functional and profound. Read on to look at how this modest bar has evolved into something truly everlasting.

Ancient wisdom: soap’s beginnings and enduring methods

Has hygiene become an obsession in modern times? Quite the contrary. Soap-making spans nearly 5,000 years, connecting us to a rich historical tradition. Archaeologists have found traces of soap in ancient Babylonian clay artifacts, complete with recipes etched into the surface. In Aleppo, artisans crafted their version by blending olive oil, laurel berry oil, and lye and cooling it underground into avocado-green sheets. Remarkably, we still use this method today, a testament to the enduring legacy of ancient wisdom.

Legend even links Cleopatra to the legacy of Aleppo soap, with stories of the Egyptian queen bathing in milk and using the olive oil blend to nourish her skin. Fast-forward to 13^th-century Florence, where Santa Maria Novella, the world’s oldest pharmacy, began as a convent where Dominican monks hand-crafted remedies and soaps using natural ingredients. They produced creations like buttery milk soaps, a tradition that continues today. Infused with patchouli, verbena, or left neutral, these luxurious bars combine ancient monastic craftsmanship with timeless elegance. Experience the legacy of Santa Maria Novella at boutiques in Seoul, Sydney, Miami, or Bangkok, or order online to enjoy this Florentine heritage at home. Their luxurious creations also make perfect gifts for any occasion!

Nostalgia and luxury: soap in the 20th century 

The mid-20^th century brought soap into the cultural spotlight in surprising ways, sparking nostalgia and appreciation for its influence. Brands like Pears and Cussons sponsored radio and TV programs, giving rise to the term “soap operas.” Even the world of high fashion took note—when photographer Cecil Beaton was asked to define elegance, he replied without hesitation: “Soap and water!” It’s easy to imagine Beaton’s muses—Maria Callas, Barbra Streisand, or Baroness Fiona Thyssen-Bornemisza—relaxing after a long day with a rose-scented Dior soap bar. Dior continues this legacy today with its Prestige Le Savon line, a reimagined nod to mid-century luxury.

Around the same time, Diptyque began elevating soap to an art form. Their smooth, glossy bars, embossed with elegant typography, look almost too beautiful to use. Watching the lettering fade with each wash feels bittersweet and poetic—a reminder of life’s fleeting beauty.

Meanwhile, Yardley of London emerged as a quintessential symbol of British refinement. Famous for their lavender soap, Yardley became synonymous with sophistication, gracing the vanities of post-war households. The brand’s floral-scented bars and elegant packaging reflected an enduring charm that bridged nostalgia and modernity. 

Modern artistry: design and functionality in soap 

In recent years, soap has seen a renaissance as a functional product and a design statement, intriguing and appreciative of its versatility. Even artists have explored its potential. In Thomas Barnthaler’s 2015 book Do It Yourself: 50 Projects by Designers and Artists, John Baldessari provided instructions on soap carving in a work titled A Large Piece of Soap Becomes a Small Piece of Soap Eventually. His playful approach reflects the ephemeral nature of soap while elevating it to an art form.

At Salone del Mobile 2024 in Milan, architect Nicolas Schuybroek collaborated with Aesop to create an installation called Form Follows Formulation. Using Aesop’s cleansing slabs as building blocks, Schuybroek crafted a monolithic structure that celebrated simplicity and elegance.

Fashion brands have also embraced soap’s artistic side. Loewe’s Scent of Marihuana bar, for instance, pairs exfoliating red algae with a soothing sativa aroma, complete with a linen rope for decorative display. Meanwhile, French brand Provendi has reimagined wall-mounted soaps as rotating sculptures, combining charm with practicality.

From ancient traditions to modern reinvention, soap transcends serving as a mere cleanser. We marvel at it as a piece of history, a canvas for artistry, and a small luxury that enriches daily life. Symrise, too, drives innovation in the soap category—explore the latest breakthroughs here. Next time you lather up, pause to appreciate its journey, craftsmanship, and the simple joy it brings. While soap may vanish with each use, its allure and impact remain timeless.

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Valentine’s Day 2025 celebrates love in every form. Around the globe, people express affection, friendship, and admiration. Some send heartfelt messages to friends, family, and partners. Others surprise loved ones with flowers, candy, or creative cards. You may consider planning a romantic dinner! Valentine’s Day highlights unique traditions that reflect the vibrant diversity of cultures worldwide.

In Estonia, friends exchange thoughtful gifts, candles, and cards. In Wales, couples honor Saint Dwynwen, the patron saint of lovers, with beautifully carved wooden love spoons. South Korea shines a spotlight on singles with “Black Day,” where friends gather to enjoy black bean noodles. Ghana transforms the day into National Chocolate Day, celebrating the cocoa industry with tastings, dinners, and festive events. The Philippines hosts grand weddings, uniting hundreds of couples in love.

Across South America, couples savor the occasion with intimate romantic dinners in countries like Argentina, Peru, Russia, and Colombia. No matter where you celebrate, Valentine’s Day reminds everyone to cherish the people who matter most. How will you make February 14 memorable this year?

Bridget plays cupid globally

Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy will start in theaters internationally on February 12, 2025, and in the United States on February 13, 2025. France will open on February 12, Argentina, Australia, Denmark on February 13, and the United Kingdom on February 14. The highly anticipated rom-com sequel (nine years since the third in the series) will be available to stream exclusively on Peacock in the United States. Nine previous cast members will reprise their roles in this story, which now finds Bridget widowed in her fifties, navigating the love of their child, and finding love again. Her bravery and devil-may-care attitude have inspired others before!

Rihanna sends hearts to all

The singer’s brand, Savage X Fenty, released a collection of lingerie, sleepwear, lounge, and accessories, highlighting love in all forms. The accompanying Love Your Way campaign stars the singer alongside Love Is Blind’s Serena Page and Kordell Beckham, model RJ King, and chef DeVonn Francis. It also features sisters, TikTok sensations Hayley and Jules LeBlanc, and friends and models Jade Gordon, Minami Gessel, and Noni Cyngor. The campaign’s imagery highlights romantic love, self-love, familial love, and the beauty of friendship. “Valentine’s Day is a time to celebrate love in all its forms,” says Rihanna. “At Savage X Fenty, we’re all about embracing love in every way and creating products that let people feel confident while doing so.” Check out a few standouts from the collection and shop the full Love Your Way drop at savagex.com.

Chocolates or fragrance?

Now, we can help you with choosing the right thing! Two traditional Valentine’s gift ideas come together in Lush’s 2025 Valentine’s Day fragrance collection, which smells like chocolate. Perfume can serve as a great Valentine’s Day gift because it can connect to emotions and create memories. A fragrance that reflects the recipient’s personality and taste can be especially meaningful. Speaking of taste, Bath & Body Works announced a Valentine’s collaboration with iconic Sweethearts candy! Dior speaks to luxury packaging being the lure for their Valentine’s offerings, while Armani mesmerizes with Sì EDP Intense fragrance. The key notes of black tea, rose, vanilla, and blackcurrant come together to create a memorable Valentine’s entrance —or exit!

Symrise believes Valentine’s Day offers the perfect time to treat yourself and your loved ones. Weigh in and let us know how you plan to embrace love in all forms!

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Progress on a global scale

Curious about the latest in feminine hygiene and hormonal wellness? The European feminine care market is booming, with revenues hitting $7.72 billion in 2024, according to Statista. Experts expect it to grow by 3.84% annually through 2029. Eco-friendly and sustainable products are especially trending in Germany. Copenhagen recently hosted the European Personal Care Program, spotlighting feminine hygiene and wellness. Embracing sexual health products can help in de-stigmatizing the category– from period care to contraception and hormone therapies. Read on to explore this sensitive topic to help enrich the knowledge and comfortability of all genders with femcare options.

While the U.S. has made strides in accessing birth control without a prescription, stricter EU rules have made things a bit more challenging. The Atlas scores 47 countries on contraception access, funding, and counseling. In 2024, top performers included Luxembourg, the U.K., France, and Belgium, with Ireland and Slovenia close behind. The UK made waves in 2021 by making two progesterone-only pills—Hana and Lovima—available over the counter. Other countries like Armenia, Greece, and Ukraine also offer non-prescription hormonal contraception. The U.K. is taking significant steps with its Women’s Health Strategy for 2024, focusing on menstrual health, menopause, maternity care, and birth trauma support. They pursue the mission to raise awareness about menopause and ensure women know the option of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) to manage it.

Celebrity awareness

What’s the “M word”? Menopause. Celebrities like Oprah are bringing much-needed awareness to premenopausal and menopausal support. Naomi Watts is also leading the charge—her brand, Stripes Beauty, was recently acquired by private equity firm L Catterton, fueling its growth even more. Naomi talked very openly about her menopausal journey and her mom’s struggle with limited information. So, she’s creating products and blogs to help. One highlight includes the Menopause Survival Kit—a curated bundle of top products for perimenopause and menopause relief. Halle Berry has also joined the movement, advocating for change, speaking out in the media with magazines like Essence, and promoting awareness through her wellness platform, RESPIN. Her recent collaboration with JOYLUX brought two innovative products to the market, further supporting women through menopause.

Support a click away

U.S.-based Wisp is reshaping women’s health by tackling stigmas and creating inclusive environments through entertainment and education. Across Europe, major strides are being made to improve access to healthcare, ensuring innovation and support keep pace globally. Traditionally limited to clinics and pharmacies, care is now available online thanks to platforms like Mobi Doctor, which treats gynecological issues, pregnancy, and menopause. In 2023, Dutch femcare brand Yoni,  committed to sustainability, raised €2.3 million, spotlighting issues like “The Hidden Dangers of Forever Chemicals in Period Products” and offering organic tampons. Korean-based  Rael provides a blog covering everything from hormone health to self-care, empowering women with knowledge. In Ghana, Femcare Ghana stepped up to fill the gap in doctor-recommended health products, making them accessible and affordable through their website.

Global wellness initiatives from companies like Symrise further push for change, supporting women’s health globally. What are some forward-thinking women’s health solutions you admire?

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Perfect your pout

Lipstick has captivated people for thousands of years, with early versions made from ingredients like gemstones and crushed bugs. The first commercial lipstick, introduced by French cosmetic company  Guerlain in 1884, paved the way for today’s vibrant beauty industry. Social media platforms like Instagram and YouTube are brimming with makeup tutorials and “get ready with me” videos showcasing must-have shades. On Monday, July 29, join the global celebration of  National Lipstick Day, honoring the timeless allure of stained lips. With the average woman spending $1780 on lipstick in her lifetime, discover more about this iconic beauty essential and its special day!

How to celebrate

As we eagerly await National Lipstick Day, Sephora is set to launch a unique online destination, ‘Lifetime of Lipstick: Trends Over The Years.’ MAC Cosmetics, renowned for its iconic lipsticks and Viva Glam initiatives, often marks the occasion by gifting lipsticks and showcasing best-sellers on their global websites. This day presents a perfect opportunity to indulge in a new shade and step out of your comfort zone with a bold choice. Share your new look on social media and embrace the excuse for a selfie. How about hosting a makeup party? Invite your friends to bring their favorite shades and celebrate together!

Why love National Lipstick Day?

Lipstick can go beyond a mere beauty product; it may truly boost your confidence. Studies show that wearing lipstick can enhance your posture and self-assurance. Men, for example, stare at bare lips for an average of 2.2 seconds and are captivated by red lipstick for 7.3 seconds. In the 1920s, red lipstick symbolized the Suffragette movement and flapper independence, showcasing its powerful impact. Flaunting red lipstick symbolized pushing boundaries and embracing your unique energy. This National Lipstick Day, celebrate the confidence and power that lipstick brings to your life!

Fresh new formats

Coco Chanel, an epitome of red lipstick, has inspired Chanel’s new Rouge Allure Velvet Nuit Blanche. This limited-edition lipstick, designed to mirror the darkness of night, promises to stay vibrant from dusk till dawn. Infused with jojoba oil and shea butter, it ensures your lips stay comfortable and hydrated. The collectible black-and-white click case adds a timeless touch. From the heritage of Guerlain, lipstick forms an iconic symbol of French beauty, and Dior’s Rouge Dior Couture Colour Lipstick encapsulates this essence perfectly. A 24-hour wear formula enriched with hydrating botanicals pairs beautifully with the matching Rouge Dior Contour Lip Liner Pencil. Let’s celebrate the legacy and allure of French beauty with these exceptional lipsticks.

Lip oils are trending, and YSL’s new Loveshine Lip Oil Stick offers a must-have hybrid. Combining six oils and rich fig pulp provides 24-hour moisture and protection. British makeup artist Charlotte Tilbury has expanded her Pillow Talk range with Talk Big Lip Plumpgasm, featuring oil and cayenne pepper extract for instant lip plumping. Another anticipated launch, Westman Atelier Lip Suede Matte Lipstick, uses Hydro-Suede Technology with hyaluronic acid and kaolin clay to keep lips hydrated and prevent feathering. Try Bisou Balmrom VIOLETTE_FR, a lipstick-balm hybrid for that “just bitten” look for a diffused effect. Lastly, ILIA’s new Lip Sketch Hydrating Crayon combines the creamy comfort of lipstick with the precision of a lip liner and a soft-matte finish.

Symrise will celebrate National Lipstick Day by highlighting its powerful and confidence-boosting properties. Please share your favorite shades and formulas below!

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#Europeanmentalhealthweek #bettertogether

Every May, European Mental Health Week brings together diverse participants. This month’s theme features “Better Together.” It is promoting mental health for all by fighting stigma and discrimination. Co-creation inspires responsibility, trust, power, and, most importantly, shared accountability. Doing with can be considered better than doing for – we are #BetterTogether. If you are wondering how to participate, now offers the perfect time to act!

Throughout the month of May, the EU puts a spotlight on prioritizing mental well-being. Did you know that 89% of EU citizens agree that mental health promotion remains a priority, just as physical health promotion does? A total of 46% of EU citizens experienced emotional or psychosocial symptoms like depression and anxiety in 2023. Statistics show higher figures in younger cohorts, with 59% of 16-24-year-olds and 56% of 25-39-year-olds reporting such issues. “Solicitude” has risen in the mental health movement, denoting concern, care, and attentive support towards someone or something. Recent world events have influenced the mental health of many. Thus, we can consider understanding what contributes to good mental health crucially.

Science of happiness

A recent study came out in March from the University of Bristol’s ‘Science of Happiness’ course. It shows that learning techniques for happiness created a marked improvement in wellbeing. This latest study found that certain “science hacks” can boost benefits if kept up over the long term—including practicing gratitude, exercise, meditation, and journaling. In addition, it contains some surprising takeaways students found. The first indicates that talking to strangers makes us happier while most shying away from such encounters (again, #BetterTogether). While social media comes with benefits, it can pose challenges for individuals prioritizing their reputation. Loneliness impacts our health by impairing our immune systems. At the same time, optimism increases life expectancy. Giving gifts to others provides more happiness than spending money on oneself. Sleep deprivation impacts how well others like us, while kindness and happiness correlate. Finally, walking in nature deactivates the part of the brain related to negative ruminations associated with depression. Another recent study from the  University of Essex found that smiling for a split second helps people see happiness in expressionless faces. Choosing to smile can create a more joyful atmosphere for everyone around you!

Connect with yourself through reading or movement:

Do you like to read? With reading evolving into a growing tool for coping, Stars & Stripes recently published a fantastic list of 10 books for Mental Health Awareness Month. From adult to children’s resources, topics range from Agoraphobia (the fear of leaving the environment you know and/or find safe) to men’s mental health with Barber Talk. In addition to reading, another recent study from The University of Sydney found that dancing may work better than other forms of exercise for improving mental health. The research discovered that dance can offer extensive health benefits, from cognitive challenges to social interactions. The artistic aspect and music also seem to improve overall emotional well-being and motivation. So, dance as if you want to embrace the whole world!

The power of scent & nourishment:

Did you know that scent can offer a powerful tool for mental wellness? In honor of Mental Health Month, Scentsy launched a Mental Health Awareness Collection. Featuring scents like Blue Lavender & Bergamot, proceeds support Euro Youth Mental Health, empowering young people with mental health challenges continent-wide. ‘Neuroscents’ feature another trending idea in wellness, some purporting to help positively modulate brain chemistry. Girl therapy, the TikTok phenomenon of using dopamine-inducing beauty products, has been identified by trend forecasting company WGSN. They also note “emotional fitness” as a key shift in beauty.

With Symrise as an involved ingredients provider in the beauty industry and consumer products and goods, we also wrote about the power of nutrition in your wellness tool kit. Weigh in below on your favorite mental coping strategies!

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Life’s journey requires strong, healthy feet for success. Beyond aesthetics, foot care includes pedicures, nail health, and strengthening often-overlooked foot muscles and bones. Explore targeted care and exercises designed for unwavering confidence and vigor in your daily feats.

Get started to give your feet the attention they deserve. 

Pedicures and nail health

A pedicure promises a rejuvenating experience, combining relaxation and essential grooming. Pedicures, whether from a high-tech chair, a warm water foot soak, or a skilled technician, now form a quintessential treat.

While many people enjoy commercial pedicures without incident, they entail risks, especially if your immunity is compromised by illness or age. Nail salons feature naturally warm and wet environments where bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other pathogens can thrive. If not properly cleaned, these pathogens can transmit to customers and cause a range of ailments, including fungal infections. To reduce infection risk at licensed salons, bring your own files, brushes, and buffers, advises Suzanne Levine, author of “My Feet Are Killing Me.” Cutting cuticles increases risk, too, so you may pass on the cutting to increase your safety.

Sometimes, you need more than a polish change to put a pep in your step, which is why medical pedicures are rising. A medical pedicure involves a sterile procedure provided by a specialist in podiatry and nail care. There’s no nail polish included with a medi-pedi because these services take care of foot health. 

Medical pedicures, such as those at MediPediNYC, use medical-grade equipment for cracked heels, professional nail clipping for hangnails, and treat blisters, corns, calluses, and ingrown toenails. They often work dry to minimize cross-contamination and infection risks via broken skin.

If you want to indulge in a pedicure in your home, consider a DIY pedicure where you can pamper your feet alone or with friends. Check out some must-haves for a perfect at-home foot pampering party: 

• Start with an Epsom salt soak for divine relaxation. 
• Then, slather on a urea-rich foot cream like Gehwol Med Lipidro-Cream or Soft Feet Creme to moisturize those deserving soles. 
• A gentle exfoliation follows—scrub dry skin with a foot file or pumice. 
• You can skip the polish and bring shine to your nails with nail or olive oil massaged into your cuticles and toes. 
• Trim and towel-dry between your toes for the ultimate foot finale.

And voila! Sandal-ready tootsies. 

The magic of moving: aging well with every step

Aging gracefully actually comes as a foot-powered movement. The hidden secret of many octogenarians – they are walking! From strengthening muscles to increasing stability and relieving joint pain, many reasons exist to exercise feet as we age. Luckily, most of these exercises are simple and you can perform them without any special equipment. Check out the below, and always talk to your healthcare provider for the best advice!

Arthritis: Say hello to Toe Yoga, a popular method to improve foot flexibility and reduce arthritis pain. Start by raising your big toe as high as possible while keeping your small toes on the ground. After a brief pause, raise your little toes as high as possible while keeping your big toe on the floor. Alternate between big and little toes until your feet feel tired. 

Plantar Fasciitis: Try towel scrunches (aka towel curls). Start by sitting in a chair and placing a hand towel flat on the floor underneath your left foot. Then, slowly curl the ends of the towel towards your heel, using only your toes to “scrunch” the towel up. Then repeat with your right foot. 

Bunions: Consider toe circles. While sitting on a chair, lean over and grip your big toe. Begin circling the toe clockwise 20 times, then reverse the direction. Complete two or three sets on each toe. 

Hammer toe: This typically relates to plantar plate atrophy or damage, causing the top foot muscles to take over toe lifting while the bottom foot muscles weaken.

To stretch top muscles and strengthen bottom ones, practice picking up a pencil, marbles, or a pair of socks with your toes.

Are you feeling ready to start your journey toward foot health? From essential pedicures and nail care to the foundation of foot muscle and bone health, foot care deserves your exploration! Give your feet the care they crave, ensuring they remain your steadfast companion on life’s journey!

PS: If you care for your feet, consider your shoes and orthotics! Frankie4 offers shoes that promise to make you feel like you’re walking on clouds. 

Share your favorite foot care finds in the comments!

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