Master the Slicked Back Look with These Beauty Necessities

Summer is here, and with it comes the need for hairstyles that are not only stylish but also practical. One of the best looks to master this season is the slicked back bun or ponytail. It's a timeless style that keeps frizz at bay and ensures you look put together no matter the occasion. Here's a quick guide to the vital tools, accessories, and products you need to achieve your best slicked back look.

 

The Hair Edit Finish & Shine Brush $20.99
The Finish & Shine Boar Bristle Brush boosts the health and shine of your hair while smoothing and taming flyaways.

The Hair Edit Brilliant Cuff $13.99
This uniquely curved elastic hair tie is great for easy styling and holds your hair in place securely.

 

 

John Frieda Frizz Ease Secret Weapon Touch-Up Créme $8.95

Stops frizz and flyaways on contact. Formulated with Avocado Oil, this unique crème seals in moisture to eliminate flyaways between styling and leaves a flawless, shiny finish. 

 

1. Hair Gel
A good hair gel is crucial for achieving that slicked back look. Choose a gel that offers a strong hold without leaving your hair crunchy. Apply it to damp hair for the best results.

2. Hair Serum or Oil
To add shine and reduce frizz, apply a lightweight hair serum or oil. Focus on the ends and any areas prone to frizz.

3. Hairspray
Lock your style in place with a strong-hold hairspray. A good hairspray will keep your hair looking sleek all day, even in humid weather.

 

With these tools, accessories, and products, you’ll be able to create a slicked back bun or ponytail that lasts all day. This hairstyle is perfect for summer, giving you a frizz-free and put-together look that can transition from day to night effortlessly.

 

Main Image Source: Pattern Beauty

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My Top Picks for Spring/Summer Foundations

 

As the seasons change and the weather warms up, it's essential to switch up your foundation game to achieve that perfect, fresh-faced look. In the realm of beauty products, finding the right foundation that provides coverage without feeling heavy can be a game-changer. Today, I'm excited to share my top three favorite spring/summer foundations that have earned a permanent spot in my makeup routine: Fenty Beauty's Eaze Drop Blurring Skin Tint, Danessa Myricks Beauty's Yummy Skin Serum Skin Tint, and Maybelline's Fit Me Matte+Poreless Foundation.

1. Fenty Beauty Eaze Drop Blurring Skin Tint in 20:
Starting off with Fenty Beauty's Eaze Drop Blurring Skin Tint, this lightweight formula is a must-have for those looking for a natural, blurred finish. Perfect for those warmer days, this skin tint provides light to medium coverage that evens out the skin tone without feeling heavy or cakey. What I love most about this product is its buildable coverage, allowing you to customize your look from a sheer glow to a more polished finish.

2. Danessa Myricks Beauty Yummy Skin Serum Skin Tint in 12:
Next up is Danessa Myricks Beauty's Yummy Skin Serum Skin Tint, a true game-changer in the world of makeup. This serum-like foundation effortlessly glides onto the skin, providing a dewy, radiant finish that screams summertime glow. Infused with skin-loving ingredients, this skin tint not only evens out the complexion but also nourishes and hydrates the skin. Whether you're going for a natural look or a full-face glam, this product has you covered.

3. Maybelline Fit Me Matte+Poreless Foundation in Spicy Brown:
Last but not least, we have a classic favorite that never fails to impress—Maybelline's Fit Me Matte+Poreless Foundation. Ideal for those with oily or combination skin, this foundation delivers a matte finish that controls shine while minimizing the appearance of pores. The lightweight formula feels comfortable on the skin and provides long-lasting coverage that withstands the heat and humidity of the summer months. With its wide range of shades, finding your perfect match is a breeze.

In conclusion, these three foundations have secured their spots as my go-to picks for the spring and summer seasons. Whether you prefer a natural, dewy look or a matte finish that lasts all day, there's a foundation on this list for everyone.

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African Pride's newest collection - Feel It Formula

African Pride, the beloved legacy brand is back with a brand new 'Feel' and sensory haircare collection. The trusted brand is unveiling its latest innovation, 'Feel It Formula' haircare line, a 4-step collection, formulated to redefine the 'Wash Day Experience,' offering a sensory regimen that caters to all hair types, chemical, relaxed, or transitioning; restoring dry,damaged hair, and treating irritated scalps. The Collection is tested and proven to minimize breakage, promote a healthy scalp, and nourish hair for optimal length retention. Key super-ingredients include Peppermint Oil, Rosemary Oil, and Sage Oil - all collectively to promote hair growth, enhance scalp circulation, restore shine.

 

The Collection includes:

• African Pride Feel It Formula Peppermint, Rosemary & Sage Strengthening Shampoo (SRP $6.99) - Deeply cleanses hair and scalp, removing product build-up without stripping moisture. Provides a soothing cooling sensation.
• African Pride Feel It Formula Peppermint, Rosemary & Sage Strengthening Mask (SRP $6.99) - Strengthens and hydrates hair strands from root to tip.
• African Pride Feel It Formula Peppermint, Rosemary & Sage Strengthening Oil (SRP $6.99) - Stimulating oil that hydrates the scalp, restores breakage, and promotes healthy hair growth. It can be used daily or as a hot oil treatment.
• African Pride Feel It Formula Peppermint, Rosemary & Sage Strengthening Balm (SRP $6.99) - Infused with Peppermint, Rosemary, and sage to stimulate and moisturize the scalp, edges, and nape. Helps prevent and reduce hair loss, even with style changes.

The 'Feel It Formula' collection is currently available at select Target, Walmart, Walgreens, and Family Dollar retailers.

 

 

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evian® Launches New Facial Mists: Protect, Calm, & Glow - Exclusively at Ulta Beauty

evian® Facial Spray’s iconic hydrating product line is excited to announce a new collection of facial mists: Protect, Calm, and Glow now available exclusively at Ulta Beauty for $22 each! Formulated with evian® natural mineral water and beautiful floral extracts, these certified organic facial mists provide unique benefits for all skin types. All evian® skincare products are sustainably made and dermatologically-tested to reach the highest quality standards. The world-renowned original facial spray is popular among stars such as Khloé Kardashian, Reese Witherspoon, Drew Barrymore, Shay Mitchell, and Olivia Culpo.

Made with nature’s finest ingredients, all three evian® Facial Mists contain pure evian® water, known for its famous mineral balance from the French Alps. Each product provides an ultra-fine microdroplet mist that allows the upper layers of skin to absorb the unique, meticulously sourced mineral and botanical content. 

evian® Facial Mist - Protect guards against everyday pollution and environmental stressors. Wild indigo extract provides natural protection while organic cornflower extract offers regenerative skin benefits.

evian® Facial Mist - Calm uses helichrysum and jasmine flower extracts to soothe even the most sensitive skin. These ingredients work together to reduce skin discomfort and provide all-day hydration.

evian® Facial Mist - Glow is made with white peony root and white tea leaf extracts that revive and nourish skin, ultimately enhancing your complexion and leaving it with a long-lasting radiant glow. 

Committed to protecting natural ecosystems, all evian® Facial Mists are packaged in 100% recyclable aluminum canisters to both preserve product quality and also reduce environmental impact. To use, hold the bottle about 8 inches from your face and spray in a circular motion with your eyes closed. Let skin air dry, then pair with your favorite skincare and makeup products to amplify your routine! 

 

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My Experience at the Makeup Show in Atlanta

As someone who loves makeup, attending the Makeup Show in Atlanta was an amazing experience. The show was a paradise for makeup lovers, offering a wide variety of brands, demonstrations, and products to explore. One of the highlights of my visit was witnessing the mesmerizing demonstration by the talented Ashunta Sheriff-Kendricks. Witnessing Ashunta Sheriff-Kendricks in action was like observing poetry in motion. Her expertise and finesse transformed faces effortlessly, showcasing the power of makeup as a form of art. I was mesmerized by her techniques and inspired by her creativity, gaining valuable insights that I can't wait to incorporate into my beauty routine. 

During the show, I had a cool experience getting color-matched by an expert at Danessa Myricks Beauty. The expert was able to easily find my perfect match in no time. Now that I have the ideal shade, I am excited to include the luxurious Yummy Skin Serum Skin Tint in my spring/summer makeup routine for a flawless finish.

Exploring the vast array of products on display, I stumbled upon Janet and Jo, a non-toxic nail polish company that caught my attention. Learning about their commitment to creating safe and environmentally friendly products was both enlightening and refreshing. Their innovative approach to beauty left me eager to incorporate their nail polishes into my collection.

Overall, my time at the Makeup Show in Atlanta was nothing short of magical. From the dazzling displays of makeup products to the insightful demos and expert advice, I left feeling inspired, educated, and ready to elevate my beauty game to new heights. Can't wait for the next Makeup Show adventure!

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A post shared by Arkeedah McCormick | Atlanta, Ga (@lifewitharkeedah)

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Simone Biles Wears Lilly Lashes

Iconic Olympic gymnast, Simone Biles, dazzled in Lilly Lashes as she showed off her Dallas Cowboys game day glam. The athlete wore the Lilly Lashes' Aspen 3D Lashes ($30). Celebrity makeup artist, Alayza Casey, created her glamorous look as she supported her husband in their NFL playoff win. Fans of the brand include Kim Kardashian, Adele, Jennifer Lopez, Cardi B, Taylor Swift, and more!

 

main image: Simone Biles Instagram

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EMMYS BEAUTY: White Lotus Star Beatrice Grannò Wears Lashes from Velour Beauty!

Beatrice Grannò dazzled last night at the 2024 Emmys wearing Velour Beauty's new Xtensions™ Lash Clusters. The White Lotus breakout actress worked with celebrity makeup artist Carolina Gonzalez to acheive the effortless eye look. On Beatrice, she wanted to add a subtle but effective drama to her eyes so she placed Velour Xtensions™ Clusters in Short (10mm) beginning at the middle of the eye and Medium (12mm) on the outer. For a lifted effect the outer lash was placed a slight bit off the lash line.

Velour Beauty's DIY Velour-Xtensions™ give you salon grade eyelash extension results for several days, in minutes. These wispy lightweight lash clusters are completely customizable, so you can do lashes your way. Velour Beauty is available at Sephora, Ulta, Amazon and VelourBeauty.com.

Photo Credit: @cgonzalezbeauty

Main image credit: Andie Jane

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GET THE LOOK: Met Gala Hair Janelle Monae

Celebrity hairstylist Nikki Nelms created Janelle Monae's Met Gala hairstyle using Mielle Organics.

Inspiration - Her super tall, structural top knot was inspired by her exaggerated tweed tuxedo. I made a secure ponytail base to start then added wire and wrapped the hair around to create the height and structure. Throughout the updo, I pulled pieces out and re-wrapped into knots around the pre-wrapped hair to add dimension and depth. The final look led to a tall cylinder like structure.

We really wanted to make this look special since this will be the first Met Gala where her hair will be visible since 2017.

Prep for Janelle’s 2023 Met Gala hairstyle started with a calming wash using the Mielle Pomegranate & Honey Moisturizing and Detangling Shampooand Conditioner. This shampoo works into a luxurious lather and has an amazing scent. It cleans without stripping away moisture and pre-detangles curly hair, while the conditioner helps to achieve shiny, smooth-to-the-touch hair.

Once towel dried, I misted her hair with Mielle’s White Peony Leave-In Conditioner,and then I followed with the Mielle Mongongo Oil Thermal & Heat Protectant Spray before blow drying.

To style, I used the Mielle Avocado & Tamanu Anti-Frizz Stay Straight Serum before lightly straightening the hair. After the hair was up and sleek, I applied the Mielle Rice Water & Aloe Braid Gel. It was perfect to get a nice smooth base braid. I finished with the Pomegranate & Honey Blend Super Hold Edge Gel to get those edges laid down.

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MET Gala Beauty: How Aubrey Plaza, Mindy Kaling, and Alexandra Daddario Got Their Red Carpet Glow With Sarah Akram

Aubrey Plaza, Mindy Kaling, and Alexandra Daddariowere glowing on the MET Gala red carpet last night from customized facial treatments by Sarah Akram! The stars got their skin prepped by visiting Sarah Akram for her signature SA Luxury Treatment (www.sarahakram.com) that combines a customized blend of all-natural products with cutting-edge technologies to produce immediate, remarkable results. The facial also includes custom SA techniques, which are administered to reduce wrinkles and strengthen tired muscles, lifting them back into their youthful shape.

 Photo Credit: Getty Images

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Dorion Renaud, Founder Of The Award-winning Skincare Brand Buttah Skin Presented With The 2023 Emerging Brand Partner Of The Year Award By Macy’s

Dorion Renaud, founder of the award-winning skincare brand, Buttah Skin, has been presented with the prestigious Emerging Brand Partner of the Year Award by Macy’s. Renaud accepted the award at a special ceremony at Macy’s Herald Square in New York City. The award honors and recognizes the brand as a best-seller across all the department store’s categories.

“On behalf of the entire Buttah Skin team, it is an incredible honor to receive such a prestigious award,” said Renaud. “Our partnership with Macy’s has elevated the Buttah brand significantly and we look forward to continued success in 2023.”

The award comes as Buttah Skin celebrates a successful year which saw the brand expanding into major high-end retail stores including Macy’s and expanding its portfolio of retail partners. Next up, Buttah Skin will add several new products to its flagship line for the first time since the brand’s best-selling customizable skincare kit became available in 2018. The new product line, yet to be announced, will roll out over in the coming months.

Buttah Skin by Dorion Renaud is designed with melanin rich skin in mind – with organic & cruelty-free products that target a wide range of skin issues with simple, proven-effective good-for-you ingredients that leave skin healthy and renewed.

Buttah Skin by Dorion Renaud is available at select Macy’s locations nationwide, online at macys.com and Macy’s mobile app.

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SAG Awards Beauty: How Aubrey Plaza, Cara Delevingne, Kerry Condon, Angela Bassett, Stephanie Hsu, and More Prepped For The Red Carpet

Aubrey Plaza, Cara Delevigne, Kerry Condon, Angela Bassett, Stephanie Hsu, Danielle Deadwyler, Sheryl Lee Ralph, Adam DiMarco, and Li Jun Li were glowing on the SAG Award's red carpet last night from customized facial treatments by Sarah Akram! The stars got their skin prepped by visiting Sarah Akram for her signature SA Luxury Treatment (www.sarahakramskincare.com) that combines a customized blend of all-natural products with cutting-edge technologies to produce immediate, remarkable results. The facial also includes custom SA techniques, which are administered to reduce wrinkles and strengthen tired muscles, lifting them back into their youthful shape.

Photo Credit: Getty Images

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GET THE LOOK: Regina King's Sleek Bob

Last night, Oscar award-winning actress Regina King opened the 93rd Academy Awards with with effortless style and grace. Celebrity Hairstylist and Flawless by Gabrielle Union co-founder, Larry Sims gave her a classic bob look to complement her gorgeous custom Louis Vuitton gown.

"For Regina's look, the lines and shoulder detail inspired the look. We wanted to go with something sleek, modern & clean that wouldn’t compete with the structure and craftsmanship or the dress, says Larry Sims. We also wanted to show off Regina’s beautiful neckline."

Here is the step-by-step to recreate her classic look.

• Larry started off by brushing Regina’s scalp with the Tangle Teezer Scalp Exfoliator & Massager. He says it feels AMAZING!!!

• He then applied a small amount of Flawless By Gabrielle Union Detangling Leave In Conditioner, Shine Enhancing Heat Protectant Spray, & Blow Dry Cream to her damp hair.

• Larry detangled Regina’s hair by using the Tangle Teezer Ultimate Detangler Hair Brush.

• From there, he blew Regina’s hair out to a smooth finish with establishing a middle part.

• After blow drying, he flat ironed Regina’s hair to a smooth but textured finish.

• Once flat ironed, he precision cut her hair into a Blunt Bob to compliment the exaggerated shoulders on her Louis Vuitton Gown.

• Larry finished off Regina’s look by passing through her freshly chopped Bob once with a flat iron.

• Lastly, Larry finished Regina’s hair line with Flawless By Gabrielle Union Edge Control and tucked

photo credit: Larry Sims and Getty

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Beauty Must Have: Caire Triple Lift Molecule Mask

I can't believe this year is my last year in my 30s, so it's time to step up the skin care routine. I just added Caire Triple Lift Molecule Mask to my weekly line up. Here is why I decided to try it out. 

Caire is a line that considers real women's declining hormones when formulating skincare. Declining hormones actually starts as early as 30 and has a direct effect on the skin. Enter Caire, a skincare line that uses only the most advanced natural biochemistry to both prevent and restore your skin’s firmness – think natural bounce - by getting its actives down into where skin cells live - beneath the skin’s surface. While Caire is aimed towards women in their 40s, it is in fact incredibly beneficial for those younger, both from a restorative and a preventative standpoint.

 

The benefits:

 

• Triple Lift Molecule Mask tightens, hydrates, heals and above all, lift.
• Immediate effect: 15 to 30 minutes of tightening and then blissfully glowing skin that visibly shows softening of lines.
• With long-term use, you will boost internal Hyaluronic Acid synthesis. With consistent 1 to 3X per weekly usage for at least a month, you can expect to experience stronger, softer, much more richly hydrated skin (skin density, strength and volume). It’s a ‘shot’ of hydration!
• Helps to reduce the appearance of eye, mouth, forehead lines, wrinkles; crepiness; eye and nose-mouth sags.

 My thoughts: The glow up is REAL! Immediately after the mask my skin was tight and soft. I love it. I will continue to use 2x a week.

 

A pro tip: Use a face or wash cloth with warm water, when removing this mask, rather than just your hands and water.

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