A Financial Checklist for Every College Graduate
FOCUS ON PAYING OFF DEBT
The road to financial independence starts with paying off any debts you might’ve acquired. Debt can curb you from reaching your other financial goals, so it’s essential to tackle it early on. Having debt can be really uncomfortable, but not all debt is created equal. Carrying student loan debt can be part of a healthy financial plan if you graduated from school and increased that earnings potential. Plus, interest on student loans is tax-deductible up to the IRS-set limit.
So when you’re trying to prioritize debt vs investing, our friends at Ellevest can help with their advice on how to typically tackle debt vs. investing.
- If you have a 401(k) employer match, invest enough to max it out
- Pay off any loans with an interest rate over 5%
- Save for emergencies
- Invest in your goals
You can also find out more information regarding repayment options through the Federal Student Aid website.
The two most popular practices for debt repayment include the “avalanche method” and the “snowball method”. Both can speed-up payoffs. It’s also worth looking into a balance transfer credit card.
PAY ATTENTION TO YOUR CREDIT SCORE
Maintaining good credit is crucial for your financial wellbeing. A high credit score is especially helpful when saving and borrowing for a new home or car.
If possible, avoid using your credit card where you can. If you do end up using it, make sure to pay off your card every month. Doing so will show creditors that you are responsible and will repay any loan promptly
START BUDGETING
We’ve said it before, and we’ll say it again: START BUDGETING. The caps lock might seem aggressive, but we can’t stress how valuable budgeting can be. Here at Style Salute, we love the 50/30/20 rule for budgeting newbies. Hailed by Elizabeth Warren and Amelia Warren Tyagi, the rule is a highly effective approach to achieving your financial goals. It’s simple: 50% of your after-tax income goes towards your needs (rent, food, etc.), 30% goes towards your wants (hello, new shoes), and 20% goes towards your savings, debt repayments, and investments.
Once you have an adequate budget in order, be sure to review it on a monthly or quarterly basis, tweaking it accordingly.
CREATE AN EMERGENCY FUND
Life always has a way of throwing unexpected curveballs at us. Building an emergency fund is a great way of making sure you have enough to cover your needs in case of an emergency. It prevents you from having to rely on credit cards or high-interest borrowing options.
Figuring out how much to save in an emergency fund can be tricky, but experts suggest saving three to six months’ worth of expenses in a saving account that you can access quickly. Avoid keeping your emergency fund in your checking account. Instead, stash it in an FDIC-insured account, as the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation insures these assets. We recommend Ellevest for this, and you can sign up in less than 10 minutes.
Fiduciaries like Ellevest have a duty to put your needs first. No ifs, ands, or buts about it. Non-fiduciaries need only to recommend products that are “suitable” — even if they’re not the lowest-cost or most ideal for you. That’s why you want to know about the fiduciary rule and ask any potential advisors if they follow that standard.
⇒ Get Started Investing With Ellevest
LOOK INTO YOUR INSURANCE OPTIONS
Employment can come with significant insurance perks, including health insurance, life insurance, and disability insurance. They’re all there for you to take advantage of, but you’ll need to spend some time to assess which plans best suit your needs. For example, life insurance is perhaps more pertinent if you have financial dependents.
Another form of insurance that’s frequently overlooked is renters insurance. After graduation, chances are you’re renting a property. People make the mistake of thinking that their landlord’s insurance will cover their belongings in case of an emergency. This is not the case, so it’s imperative you stay protected by getting your own insurance. Renters insurance also provides liability coverage, which primarily protects you from any detrimental lawsuits.
CONTRIBUTE TO YOUR RETIREMENT SAVINGS
If your employer offers to match your contributions to your retirement plan, you should accept and maximize the match. When you’re young, it’s advisable to contribute to an employer-sponsored Roth 401(k) or Roth Individual Retirement Account (IRA) if they are available to you. Any contribution to a Roth account is made using after-tax dollars. Subsequently, when you do retire, you can take out the contributions tax-free.
You can learn more about your investment options here.
Fiduciaries like Ellevest have a duty to put your needs first. No ifs, ands, or buts about it. Non-fiduciaries need only to recommend products that are “suitable” — even if they’re not the lowest-cost or most ideal for you. That’s why you want to know about the fiduciary rule and ask any potential advisors if they follow that standard.
9 Health Benefits and Uses of Castor Oil
It plumps up your skin and smoothes fine lines. All it takes is 20 minutes. Cue: castor oil.
Plenty of people tell us that castor oil is great for our hair—and like we’ve mentioned before, it’s all true. Castor oil carries ricinoleic acid and omega 6 essential fatty acids, which help accelerate blood circulation to the scalp, hence promoting hair growth.
Once I saw the amazing results from incorporating castor oil into my own hair routine, I began trolling the internet in search of more information on the product and looked up all the ways to use castor oil for beauty purposes. I’m happy to report there’s quite a few uses and benefits to using the product.
While it’s most common use is for beauty, it also has some health benefits including joint pain and sore muscle relief and laxative effects.
Keep scrolling to read more about castor oil and all of its amazing perks.
1. Helps Wound Healing
Castor oil helps heal wounds by stimulating the growth of new tissue, reducing dryness and preventing the buildup of dead skin cells.
When you apply castor oil to wounds, it creates a moist environment that promotes healing and prevents sores from drying out. It helps to heal by stimulating tissue growth so that a barrier can be formed between the wound and the environment, decreasing the risk of infection.
It also reduces dryness and cornification, the buildup of dead skin cells that can delay wound healing.
2. Has Anti-Inflammatory Effects
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Studies have shown that when castor oil is applied topically, it reduces inflammation and relieves pain.
The pain-reducing and anti-inflammatory qualities of castor oil may be particularly helpful to those with an inflammatory disease such as rheumatoid arthritis or psoriasis.
3. Promotes Hair Growth
Heating the oil and massaging it into your scalp will improve circulation to the hair follicles. You can also use this method on different areas of hair growth, such as your eyebrows or eyelashes to help them grow longer and fuller. Castor oil is packed full of vitamins, minerals, fatty acids and antioxidants that help promote a protein called keratin.
It’s safe to use everyday and will not promote hair growth in unwanted areas such as your arms or legs. Applying castor oil to the scalp can also help prevent and heal dandruff and create smoother, shinier hair.
4. Reduces Acne
Castor oil has several qualities that reduce acne symptoms.
Reducing Inflammation is thought to be a factor in the development and severity of acne, so applying castor oil to the skin may help reduce inflammation-related symptoms.
5. Powerful Laxative
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Most people are familiar with the discomfort of constipation. For years, castor oil was shunned because it wasn’t safe for any level of consumption, but thankfully now due to the oil extracting process, the toxins can now be removed, making it safe for use.
If you suffer from any degree of constipation, instead of turning to laxative pills and powders right away, try using castor oil. By mixing one teaspoon into orange juice or another fruit juice to mask the flavor, the castor oil will speed up digestion and cleanse the system.
Be careful not to ingest more than one teaspoon, because it can create problems such as nausea, vomiting, and loose bowels.
6. Fights Fungus
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Candida albicans is a type of fungus that commonly causes dental issues like plaque overgrowth, gum infections, and root canal infections.
Castor oil has antifungal properties and may help fight off Candida, keeping the mouth healthy.
Castor oil may also help treat denture-related stomatitis, a painful condition thought to be caused by Candida overgrowth. This is a common issue in elderly people who wear dentures.
7. Prevent Infections
The ricinoleic acid in castor oil has antibacterial properties that can be used for treating infections ranging from acne to athlete’s foot. While some people are wary to apply oils to acne prone skin, castor oil will help clear the skin, rather than clog it. It will decrease the inflammation and hydrate and soothe problem areas. The anti-inflammatory components can also help with sunburn relief.
Castor oil can be used to treat more severe infections as well. Even when only applied topically, it increases white blood cell count, which are the blood cells that fight off infections and kill fungi and viruses. For most infections including athlete’s foot, all you need to do is warm up the castor oil and apply it to the affected area. You can wrap the area to ensure it doesn’t make a mess.
8. Keeps Your Scalp Healthy
A lot of people use castor oil as a natural hair conditioner. Dry or damaged hair can especially benefit from an intense moisturizer like castor oil.
According to Healthline, applying fats like castor oil to the hair on a regular basis helps lubricate the hair shaft, increasing flexibility and decreasing the chance of breakage.
Castor oil may also benefit people who experience dandruff, a common scalp condition characterized by dry, flaky skin on the head.
9. Boosts Immunity
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Castor oil is one of the best natural remedies when it comes to treating backache. If you want to get rid of any pain and stiffness, try rubbing castor oil on your back.
Helen Sanders is the chief editor at HealthAmbition.com. Established in 2012, Health Ambition has grown rapidly in recent years. Our goal is to provide easy-to-understand health and nutrition advice that makes a real impact. We pride ourselves on making sure our actionable advice can be followed by regular people with busy lives.
Next up, 10 Reasons You Should Be Using Castor Oil Every Day,
12 Leggings With Insane Amazon Reviews
What was life like before Amazon? We can’t recall shopping in those days, but there was a time where we didn’t have our online shop. And yes, somehow, we got through it. Nowadays, Amazon has become everyone’s one-stop-shop for—including must-have fashion buys. So, while you might associate the mega-retailer with books, tech, toiletries, and everyday necessities, WWD reports that Amazon’s apparel category is growing by leaps and bounds.
Not only is fashion on Amazon undergoing a major makeover, but, it also has certain niche items you already want: The classic—and highly sought after—Reebok Classic Leather Sneakers and $40 mesh sandals that even Bella Hadid’ swears by, for example.
With this in mind, I tapped my fellow editors to see what fashion items they’re currently adding to their carts as well as what they love to buy regularly on Amazon, and leggings topped everyone’s list. Amazon has every type of leggings that you could possibly need in life, including picks from some of your favorite athleisure brands such as Alo Yoga, Lululemon, and Adidas.
From staple active leggings to trending tights that can be worn by everyone, Amazon is a goldmine for athleisure fashion items. But finding the best pieces takes time, patience, and dedication in order to spot the best picks. Luckily, we’ve done the hard work for you and scoured the site to bring you the coolest pieces that we hear at Style Salute HQ (and shoppers) all agree are amazing.
Some are simple black leggings, some have mesh—but all of them have the approval of thousands of shoppers just like you.
Shop our picks below.
Amazon Rating: 4.6 out of 5 stars (478 customer reviews)
Amazon Rating: 4 out of 5 stars (383 customer reviews)
Amazon Rating: 4.6 out of 5 stars (859 customer reviews)
Amazon Rating: 4 out of 5 stars (85 customer reviews)
Amazon Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars (25,317 customer reviews)
Amazon Rating: 4.2 out of 5 stars (3,526 customer reviews)
Amazon Rating: 4.3 out of 5 stars (76 customer reviews)
Amazon Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars (2,069 customer reviews)
Amazon Rating: 4.1 out of 5 stars (86 customer reviews)
Amazon Rating: 4.4 out of 5 stars (6,654 customer reviews)
Amazon Rating: 4.2 out of 5 stars (75 customer reviews)
Ready for the next step? This crazy-simple trick is the key to healthy hair and skin.
Answered: How To Cut Sleeves Off A Shirt (With Step-by-Step Instructions)
Every year before the holidays, Google releases a really telling and nutty list of the most-searched items in all categories—including fashion. Every year has some interesting queries, and this year was no different. So, what is one of the most-searched fashion queries every single year? “How to cut sleeves off a shirt?” Yes, really.
Seeing that everyone is curious as to how to make cut up a t-shirt, we headed to YouTube to find the best tips and tricks to do it like a true fashionista. That said, we all know how overwhelming it can be when you type in a query to YouTube. So, we went ahead and did the hard part for you, narrowing down the five best “cut sleeves off a shirt” tutorials YouTube has to offer.
Scroll through to learn how to cut your own shirt the smart way, and go a bit further to shop some of our favorite tees—all under $20.
Step 1: Find the perfect T-shirt.
Step 2: Test the look by folding the shirt and holding up against your body.
Step 3: Lay the T-shirt out on a very flat and clean surface and use chalk to draw the lines you want to cut.
Step 4: Carefully cut around the sleeve. If you want to keep the seams, keep the cut close to it all the way around. If you are cutting out the seam, cut as smoothly as you can to avoid a jagged look.
SHOULDERS CUT
OFF-THE-SHOULDER
ROCKER TEE
CUT UP BACK
Self-Care Tips for Expecting Mothers
Self-care is an absolute must for everyone. But how do you do that when you’re caring for not one, but two lives? When it comes to advice available to expecting mothers, there’s a lot to consider. Between best-selling parenting books, multivitamins for women, well-meaning family and friends, and even strangers on the street choosing what advice to follow is a lot. Just sifting through the sheer amount of information that comes your way can be a stressful task. Coupled with all the stress a pregnancy can bring, it’s paramount that expecting mothers also take care of themselves by practicing self-care.
That being said, developing a foundation for emotional self-management, conflict management, and communication has been shown to help reduce maternal stress and depression, among other long-term benefits.
Here, we unpack 10 self-care tips for expecting mothers.
Eating in bed is okay
Yes, you’re required to stay active and move around, but sometimes it’s okay to stay in bed. Morning sickness can be a nuisance to deal with and eating in bed can actually counteract that. Keep a stash of healthy snacks nearby that you can eat every time your blood sugar drops. You can also try ginger capsules for morning sickness. However, it’s best to have your doctor sign off on that.
Join a support group
Instead of going through the process alone, it’s always helpful to have a bunch of women around you who know exactly what you’re going through. Support groups are also useful to prepare you for the labor pains and what to do post-partum.
Take some time to be prepared emotionally
Even with prenatal classes and your doctor’s advice, going through labor is still an emotional rollercoaster. Slow down and still your mind, and find tools to cope with the emotional turmoil. Sounds, music, visualization techniques can all be helpful.
Eat clean
Your pregnancy may be a ticket for you to gain weight, but try to eat healthy as much as possible. Add 200 calories a day post second trimester and eat frequently. Make sure your food is rich in fiber and low in sugar and salt.
Don’t try to lose weight
It’s disconcerting to gain weight and see your body change, but it’s supposed to happen. Don’t starve yourselves or cut out calories in an attempt to stay the same.
Take multivitamins
Listen to your doctors and take all the vitamins they prescribe. Not only is this important for the baby, but it is also essential for you too. Pregnacare is one of the vitamins that you should take. It prevents low birth weight and pregnancy complications.
Move your body
Low impact activities like yoga and stretching can help you stay positive and release endorphins. However, before you attempt high-impact activities, you should consult your doctor. Contact sports should be avoided at all costs.
Take long baths
Nice, warm baths can help you feel better and soothe your mind and body. When you’re expecting, you will have to take baths frequently.
Indulge in a prenatal massage
Pamper yourself with a massage, whether at a local spa or in the comfort of your own home. Try and look for a masseuse that’s specially trained in prenatal massages.
Be kind to yourself
Pregnancy is different for everyone. If you don’t feel as cheery as you’re “supposed” to be, it’s okay. Not every expecting mother is going to be happy, glowing and full of joy. Sometimes it’s stressful, full of panic attacks and anxiety. So, don’t feel any undue pressure on yourselves for not being perfect.
In a nutshell, you should strive to be happy and surround yourself with your positive vibes when expecting to have a healthy pregnancy.
Next up, a beginner’s guide To self-care For your mental health.
Postpartum Depression: A Guide to Symptoms and Treatment
Society will tell you over and over again: Having a baby is the most exciting time of your life. But what about when that time of motherhood celebration is clouded by postpartum depression (PPD) or anxiety? The mental health hurdles that can pop up during or after pregnancy can be severe. That’s why it’s important to keep your mental health at the forefront of any conversations you have throughout your pregnancy and birth of your child.
“It can be an uncomfortable topic to talk about,” said Joanne Newfield, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who is part of the WMN / WRK Network, about maternal mental health. “A lot of people don’t know how to start the conversation.”
Whether it’s with your partner or your boss, the most crucial piece of the conversation is the beginning. Bringing the topic up before symptoms show up is the best approach. That way, those around you can know what to look for. And hopefully, you and your team have put a plan in place for how to get help.
So, if you’re expecting a child or have just had one, what are the symptoms to be on the lookout for? Several different diagnoses can come about postpartum.
Here are the most common depression diagnoses after childbirth, their symptoms, and treatment.
Postpartum Depression
Symptoms: Postpartum depression is the most common affliction for new moms; about 1 in 7 mothers will suffer from it. If you are suffering from postpartum depression, you may experience sadness, mood swings, difficulty sleeping (even when the baby is sleeping), difficulty concentrating, loss of appetite, thoughts of helplessness or thoughts of suicide.
Treatment:
Postpartum Anxiety
Symptoms: Because postpartum anxiety is less talked about than postpartum depression, often people do not realize than many people suffer from postpartum anxiety, which includes symptoms of irrational worries, thoughts that something is going to happen to your baby, overwhelming worries that you’re not doing motherhood right.
Treatment:
Postpartum Post-traumatic Stress Disorder
Symptoms: Postpartum Post-traumatic Stress Disorder usually affects mothers who have had a traumatic pregnancy – emergency C-section, miscarriage, etc). If you are suffering from postpartum PTSD, you may be experiencing symptoms of flashbacks, nightmares, irritability or hypervigilance and/or panic attacks.
Treatment:
Postpartum Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
Symptoms: If you are suffering from postpartum OCD, you may be experiencing obsessions or intrusive thoughts related to the baby and/or compulsions (persistent counting, re-ordering, cleaning, etc.)
Treatment:
For any of these symptoms, it’s important to enlist the help of a therapist or other professional. Often, they can tell the difference between something mild (the short-lasting “baby blues”) versus something much more serious (postpartum depression).
If you are diagnosed with any postpartum mental illness, it becomes crucial that you get the help you need. Sometimes this means psychotherapy, taking a longer maternal leave (which you are legally obligated to if diagnosed with postpartum depression or anxiety), or medication.
“I think a lot of women don’t know it’s safe to use medication (during pregnancy or while breastfeeding),” Newfield said. “Every woman is different. Some don’t want to use medication, but for the women who do, there are safe options.”
If you are suffering and postpone getting help, symptoms can have a huge effect on your work. Loss of concentration, difficulty sleeping, and irritability can all cloud your ability to function well in the workplace.
“It gets in the way of your projects,” Newfield said. “It may get in the way of staying organized. It’s hard to work with other people when you’re experiencing these symptoms. How are you supposed to function in the office if you’re not able to sleep?”
Outside of the workplace, maternal mental health can have a huge impact. A partner or other family members can take on similar symptoms. And the development of your baby’s brain may even be affected if you’re suffering from postpartum depression and have difficulty bonding with the baby.
“Maybe you won’t hold your baby, or talk to your baby,” Newfield said. “If we do the bare minimum, if we feed our baby and change their diapers, their brains are at risk of not developing in a healthy way. They’ll be at risk of developmental delays, and also mental health problems down the road.”
At the end of the day, no matter how imposing and impossible a mental health crisis may feel like, help is available. People like Newfield offer psychotherapy (even in-home sessions, which can be helpful for new mothers). Medication is available. Hospitals often provide resources and information on how to get help.
But the first step? Talking about it, and releasing any guilt associated with your symptoms.
“A lot of people think it’s an emotional disease,” Newfield said. “But it’s a chemical imbalance. You can’t really see it. A lot of people suffer in silence. There’s unfortunately still a lot of shame in mental health but the statistics are high. There is support out there and we can help you.”
I Always Get Compliments on My Skin—This is the One Product I Use Every Day
Until a few years ago, I didn’t really see the point of spending a lot of money on skincare. I thought all skincare was the same, and selling pricy skincare was just a just not worth it. Obviously, I was very wrong. I had acne as a teenager and the marks were still on my skin. It seemed like nothing I did or used would help give me healthier, skin. I did the expensive facials, treatments, DIY treatments – name it, I tried it. It wasn’t until I moved from NY to LA, and I was planning my wedding that I discovered Biologique Recherche P50,and it literally changed my life.
It was two weeks before my wedding day and wanting to look great, I visited Lemaje Skin Care on Robertson. On my visit, I was expecting to have a facial treatment and walk out with brighter, healthier skin. It was to my surprise that the owner respectfully asked me to reschedule my appointment after I’ve spent some time using Biologique Recherche P50 toner. She told me that my skin was so congested that she wouldn’t be able to help. This was two weeks before my wedding day – you can imagine how miserable I was. But she was right – Biologique Recherche P50 changed my life.
The Story
It took about 14 months to get me to a point where I didn’t need to wear foundation, which was liberating. I am forever thankful for meeting her and being introduced to this product. Biologique Recherche P50 shouldn’t remain a secret since it has the ability to liberate anyone suffering from a variety of skin conditions. People sometimes ask me what it is and my only answer is that it is quite literally a magic potion that does it all. It exfoliates, hydrates, and balances the pH of the skin, leaving your skin radiant and healthy.
Think of it as the ultimate exfoliant, which helps to replenish and renew your skin. Some even call it “facial in a bottle”. I don’t usually rave about any products out there, but this was a life changer. If you’re looking for a skincare product that works, I recommend you to try Biologique Recherche P50.
Keep scrolling to see and shop the magic potion AKA Biologique Recherche P50.
Given its hefty price tag, my aesthetician suggested applying a few drops directly into my hand and then dabbing it on my skin vs. onto a cotton ball. That way you’ll savor every drop. The whole bottle lasts me approximately 8 months.
Want more skincare tips? Check out the 12 best collagen creams for your skins exact needs.
How to Expertly Apply Magnetic Lashes
I like my lashes dark, dramatic, and brushing against the lenses of my glasses, which is why mascara will always be a staple in my beauty bag. I’m sure many of you agree since the appeal of long, flirty eyelashes is practically universal.
Many of my friends have tried all kinds of lash extension and curling procedures. While I’m an avid fan of the results, I’m fairly fainthearted when it comes to experimenting with my own lashes. I’ve always had an irrational fear that falsies will rip off any real hair.
False eyelashes are one of the few things in life that bring us lots of joy, as well as a dash of dread. Until recently, our options for false lashes are limited to the “dip lashes in pungent, white glue, stick them close to your lashes… and pray” method This works about 50% of the time and is not a technique we would recommend. Luckily, today we have a few more options.
Enhancing Natural Lashes
What I’ve tried recently are countless eyelash growth serums that claim to enhance your natural lashes. Some of my all-time favorites include RevitaLash (I swear by this product, and I end up having to use it sporadically because my lashes reach crazy lengths) and Hairgenics Lavish Lash. Castor oil is another great, natural conditioner.
When looking for some extra glam, I still like to use false eyelashes, but no girl wants that crippling anxiety that they bring. Well, our cries have been heard, which is why magnetic lashes are gaining significant traction in the beauty community.
In fact, magnetic lashes are so popular that we’re seeing them pop up everywhere from Ulta and Sephora aisles to drugstores — and according to this year’s Google Year in Search 2018, the top three beauty searches in the U.S. were all about eyelashes. And how to apply magnetic lashes came in at the number one beauty search query.
What are magnetic lashes?
This innovative lash format uses a sandwiching technique. One strip goes under the natural lashes, and the second fits along the top of lashes. The tiny magnets at the base of each strip help them snap together when they are aligned at the lashline. And to remove them, you just pull the false lashes apart — no oil cleansers or wipes are needed. They’re reusable, budget-friendly (around $7 a pair), and don’t require any messy glue.
Katy Stoka, inventor of One Two Lash, the world’s first magnetic eyelash, designed her product as a foolproof way to apply and sport false lashes. Ask any girl and she’ll tell you this invention is nothing short of genius. Not only do magnetic lashes eliminate the mess caused by lash glue, but they’re actually better for the environment. They also last much longer than your run-of-the-mill strip lashes and come in a multitude of styles for different occasions.
Curious how they work? Keep reading for your step-by-step guide to applying and maintaining magnetic eyelashes.
How magnetic eyelashes work
When it comes to regular falsies, you’d apply a single strip of lashes on your lash line using some glue. With magnetic eyelashes, you’ll have two separate strips that have small magnets attached to the center. One of the strips will sit on top of your lashes and the other one will go underneath, fastening together through your natural lashes.
How to apply magnetic eyelashes
We’re not going to lie; applying magnetic eyelashes can be excruciatingly annoying at first, but practice makes perfect. To start with, take the top lashes and place them over your eyelashes, as close to the lash line as possible. Next, take the bottom lashes and place them underneath your top lashes. The magnets should snap together, securing your lashes in place.
If you need to adjust them, gently pull the corners of the lashes to reposition them. You can use magnetic eyelashes with or without mascara.
Here a quick video tutorial:
How to trim magnetic lashes
With any kind of false eyelashes, whether it’s strip or magnetic, it can sometimes be challenging to get them to fit your eye shape properly. A simple hack is to trim the lashes. To do so, use a pair of scissors to cut the top and bottom lashes in half. You can then apply them as usual, starting with one half of the top lash and one half of the bottom lash. Trimming your lashes will prevent the corners and the middle section from pointing upwards, and it provides a firmer hold.
How to take care of magnetic eyelashes
With proper care, you’ll find that your magnetic eyelashes will last you a very long time. When removing the lasshes, make sure your hands are clean and dry. Once they’re off, gently wipe them down with a damp cotton pad to remove any residue from mascara or other eye makeup. Most magnetic lashes come in a little storage case, so always pop them back in there to keep them safe.
Which are the best according to beauty experts
One Two Cosmetic lashes are a forerunner, and you can get over fifty uses from just one pair. Other industry favorites include Ardell’s Double Up Lashes and the Venus Visage 3-D lashes that only cover two-thirds of your lash line so your outer corners have an extra whimsical flutter. For a more natural look, LASH’D UP lashes are a great option, and the start-up is a supporter of children affected by cancer.
Craving more beauty secrets? Check these stories out:
These Are the Best 24 K Gold Masks for Every Budget
The Affordable Mask Karlie Kloss Swears to Combat Puffy Eyes
PMS Relief: Herbal Remedies and What the Research Shows
What is Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)?
Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is defined by the American College of Ob/Gyn (ACOG) as physical or behavioral symptoms that occur during the 5 days before the onset of menses and cause significant social and economic dysfunction. Such symptoms must be present for at least 3 consecutive cycles. Symptoms are most severe in the 4 days before menses and 2-3 days after the onset of menses. The most common physical manifestations of PMS are abdominal bloating, extreme fatigue, breast tenderness, headache, hot flashes and dizziness. The most common behavioral PMS symptoms include mood swings, irritability, anxiety, tension, depression mood, increased appetite and food cravings.
Be aware that most women of reproductive age experience some mild form of physical and/or emotional symptoms 1-2 days before the onset of menses. However, these symptoms are mild and do not interfere with functioning or quality of life, and thus do not constitute PMS.
What is Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)?
The most severe form of PMS that significant distress and interfere with usual activities.
How is PMDD diagnosed?
Notably, there are no lab tests or physical exam findings that are used to diagnose PMS or PMDD. The diagnosis must be made by your healthcare provider based on detailed history and documentation of established criteria. Most doctors recommend the use of the Daily Record of Severity of Problems (DRSP) form, which has been a scientifically validated tool used by patients to keep inventory of the timing and nature of symptoms.
As with most conditions, women should work closely with their primary care physician or Ob/Gyn to rule out other causes for their symptoms such as different mood/ anxiety disorders, thyroid disorders, substance abuse and medication side effects, to name a few.
Herbal Remedies for PMS
Herbal remedies for premenstrual syndrome (PMS) are among the vitamins and supplements women spend billions on each year.
Decoding the Common Remedies:
Acupuncture
Used in traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years in treating women’s health issues, acupuncture is garnering more and more attention in western medicine to treat a variety of illnesses. In a systematic review of three scientific trials, acupuncture revealed to improve mood and physical symptoms of PMS., Although the research is in its infancy and acupuncture has not been directly compared to standard therapies in head-on trials, it still holds promise.
2. Vitex Agnus-Castus/ Chaste Berry
Vitex Agnus-Castus/ Chaste Berry is a shrub native to the Mediterranean and Central Asia which has been used in treating gynecologic complaints for centuries. Research has shown this herb to be effective in treating the physical symptoms of PMS, however, the evidence is inconsistent. Uncommon side effects include GI and skin reactions. Women taking certain psychiatric medications, birth control, or who are being treated for hormone-sensitive cancers should not use chasteberry.
>> Shop the highest-reviewed chasteberry supplements here.
3. Vitamin D & Calcium
Vitamin D promotes calcium absorption in the gut and maintains adequate calcium and phosphorus concentrations in the body to enable normal growth and metabolism. It is also involved in modulating neuromuscular and immune function and it serves as an anti-inflammatory hormone. 80% of daily requirements is obtained by UVB exposure and 20% received through dietary intake. Foods rich in Vitamin D include fatty fish (salmon, tuna, mackerel) and fish liver oils. Fortified foods such as milk, ready to eat breakfast cereals and some brands of orange juice and yogurt are also a rich source of Vitamin D. A recent study revealed that vitamin D supplementation was associated with a reduction in incidence of some physical and emotional PMS symptoms. Another study found that women who consumed four servings a day of low-fat dairy or yogurt or fortified orange juice had a 40% lower risk of PMS than those who did not. Additionally, a double blind randomized clinical trial found that calcium supplementation alleviated mood symptoms in PMS. Of note, excessive calcium has been linked with an increased risk of heart disease so consult your physician prior to initiation.
>> Shop the highest-reviewed vitamin d supplements here.
>> Shop the highest-reviewed calcium supplements here.
4. Evening primrose oil
Plant native to North America, containing fatty acid gamme-linolenic acid (GLA), used by native Americans for bruises, minor wounds and GI complaints. It is usually available in capsule form. Most studies of evening primrose oil have not found it to be helpful for PMS and there are conflicting results regarding its use for alleviating breast tenderness.
>> Shop the highest-reviewed evening primrose oil here.
5. Vitamin B6
Naturally present in foods such as chickpeas, tuna, salmon, chicken breast, potatoes, and fortified breakfast cereals, vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) is involved in hundreds of enzymatic reactions, including the synthesis of neurochemicals such as serotonin and dopamine. Several studies have shown the benefit of Vitamin B6 supplementation in treating PMS symptoms, however, results have been inconsistent across the board. A systematic review found evidence that doses of Vitamin B6 up to 100 mg day may be beneficial in alleviating PMS symptoms, however the review as limited by methodological flaws in most of the studies.
Caution is advised as too much vitamin B6 is associated with serious side effects such as neuropathy, skin changes and gastrointestinal symptoms. Vitamin B6 can also interact with certain medication so a consultation with your doctor prior to use is highly advised.
>> Shop the highest-reviewed Vitamin B6 supplements here.
6. Magnesium
Found abundantly in the body, magnesium regulates a variety of biochemical reactions including muscle and nerve function, blood glucose control and blood pressure regulation among others. It is found in leafy green vegetables, spinach, nuts, legumes, seeds and whole grains. Magnesium deficiency is uncommon in otherwise healthy people who eat a varied diet because the kidneys will limit urinary excretion of magnesium. In a recent literature review, magnesium supplementation was found to be effective in the prevention of PMS symptoms while another study found that oral magnesium can alleviate PMS mood symptoms.
Average daily recommended intake of magnesium for healthy adults is 300-400 mg. Supplements come in many formulations but you may prefer magnesium-taurate or magnesium-glycinate for a more calming and relaxing effect. If you desire a laxative effect (for constipation), then consider magnesium citrate. Suggested dosing is 300 mg once to three times daily. A combination of 200 mg magnesium +50 mg vitamin B6 daily has also been used (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22069417) . Side effects of excessive magnesium include diarrhea, abdominal cramping and nausea. In excessively large concentrations, magnesium toxicity can lead to muscle weakness and difficulty breathing.
>> Shop the highest-reviewed magnesium supplements here.
7. Yoga
Strong events supports the practice of yoga in reducing the depressive symptoms of PMS and the good news is no serious side effects to report. A randomized controlled trial found that women who practiced yoga consistently for two months had significantly lower incidence of depression relating to their PMS symptoms. Interestingly, even short term yoga practice during the second half of the menstrual cycle (the luteal phase) was found to improve concentration and cognitive tasks in women with PMS (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25965108). Therefore, even if you don’t have the time to commit to a consistent yoga practice, even practicing during the time just prior to onset of menses can improve PMS symptoms!
8. Aerobic Exercise
A recent clinical trial study revealed that 8 weeks of aerobic exercise resulted in decreased nausea, constipation, diarrhea, and bloating and it even demonstrated a reduction in increased appetite (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29855308). Similarly, a recent randomized control trial found that swimming has a beneficial effect on most of the emotional symptoms of PMS such as anxiety, depression, mood changes, and concurrently the physical symptoms such as breast tenderness and cramps (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29350276).
9. Mindfulness based cognitive therapy (MBCT)
A recent study revealed the potential benefit of psychotherapy for women with mild to moderate PMS and it’s no surprise that meditation balances the mind and body altogether.
Now that you’re better equipped to get PMS relief, read about the best way to get rid of pesky bloating fast.
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