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Celeb hairstylist Mark Townsend shows us how to create the perfect ponytail

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Celeb hairstylist Mark Townsend shows us how to create the perfect ponytail
Get the look

celeb Hair trends & tips

He's styled some of the prettiest heads in Hollywood, and now Dove Hair and celeb stylist Mark Townsend is dishing on award season beauty trends, styling tricks and the perfect ponytail.

SheKnows: First, we have to ask: What were the big hair trends you saw on the red carpet this awards season?

Mark Townsend: There were two big trends this season. The first trend is all about getting the volume and the second is all about having beautiful, silky hair.

SK: What has been your favorite red carpet hairstyle you’ve created yourself?

MT: [There are three]: 2007 Golden Globes with Reese Witherspoon; 2013 Academy Awards with Jennifer Lawrence; 2009 Golden Globes with January Jones.

2007 Golden Globes with Reese Witherspoon
Photo credit: Frazer Harrison/Getty Images Entertainment/Getty Images
 2013 Academy awards with Jennifer Lawrence
Photo credit: Jason Merritt/Getty Images Entertainment/Getty Images
 2009 Golden Globes with January Jones
Photo credit: George Pimentel/WireImage/Getty Images

SK: You've styled a lot of celebs for the red carpet. What's your go-to hairstyle when you really want to give them that wow factor?

MT: There is really no go-to hairstyle. It's all about the individual and what they are wearing!

SK: Any amazing styling tips or tricks you have in your arsenal?

MT: I like to spray [hairspray] on a natural bristle toothbrush to tame any flyaway hairs along the hairline. Another great tip is to hold the dryer two to three inches from the hair to avoid creating unnecessary heat damage.

SK: What is the biggest hair styling mistake that most women make?

MT: Using too much heat. Some blow dryers and irons get too hot for the consumers. Also, take smaller sections of hair before using a flat iron. If you run a flat iron over too large of a section, only the top and bottom layers are getting the heat so you have to run the iron over the hair too many times.

SK: Now let's chat special event hair. Before a big event, are there any ways women can make their hair look extra amazing?

MT: I always recommend my clients use a moisturizing treatment the week before a big event. You can leave it in your hair while in the bath or while shaving your legs in the shower. Those extra few minutes on the hair make all the difference!

SK: What are your tips for making a hairstyle last through the night for a special event?

MT: Long-lasting hairstyles are really about the prep. I love the Dove Oxygen Moisture Leave-In Foam because it has a flexible hold without weighing the hair down so the style will really last.

The perfect ponytail

Creating the perfect ponytail is an art. Lucky for us, Mark has had plenty of practice. In honor of last weekend's Oscars, Mark created a sleek, sexy ponytail and was nice enough to share his tips for scoring the style at home.

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  1. Before styling hair, prep for maximum silkiness and shine using Dove Pure Care Dry Oil Shampoo and Conditioner.
  2. While your hair is still damp, warm three to four pumps of Dove Pure Care Dry Oil Nourishing Hair Treatment with African Macadamia Oil in your hands and apply it to locks from mid-length to the tips.
  3. Now it's time to blow dry! Use a flat brush to get the desired sleek look.
  4. Next, brush the hair straight back and gather it into a tight ponytail. Secure it away with an elastic.
  5. Taking a small piece of hair from inside your ponytail, wrap it around the elastic and secure with a bobby pin on the underside of your ponytail.
  6. For added smoothness, run a flat iron over the ponytail in small sections.
  7. Complete the look by spraying Dove Style+Care Extra Hold Hairspray all over for long-lasting hold.

More Oscars beauty

2014 Oscars beauty report: The best looks of the night
The best Oscars beauty moments of all time
Get the look: Cate Blanchett's Oscars makeup

Photo credit: Mark Townsend

Watch this viral Chanel Paris Fashion Week show

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Everything in Paris is inherently more chic (it's just the laws of fashion), so when Chanel decided to host their Paris Fashion Week show in a supermarket, we found the decision nothing short of genius. Chanel is known for their magical fashion shows, but this one took things to a new level of creativity.

If you're going to stage a fashion show in a supermarket, you'd better commit, and commit is just what Karl Lagerfeld and his crew did. Karl even made an appearance in the grand finale as he walked arm in arm with a model who danced alongside him. Every detail, down to the Chanel Shopping Center shopping cart and the models play-shopping around, screamed brilliant and fresh. And really, would we expect anything else from Chanel?

Fashion's elite and Hollywood darlings like Rihanna and Keira Knightley made appearances at the unique show and witnessed the swanky collection's unveiling. So what can we expect from Chanel's fall/winter line? Lots of metallics, tweeds, uber chic outerwear and flashy sneakers in all colors of the rainbow! Make sure you check out our fave piece of the collection: a simply perfect sparkly vest (fast forward to 1:17 to get a peek).

What a delicious collection, no?

More fashion week

10 Things I learned at Fashion Week
Top colors dominating spring/summer 2014
How high fashion trends become ready to wear

15 Photos that make us think Cate Blanchett is immortal

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Cate Blanchett in 2014
Photo credit: Apega/WENN.com

Cate through the years

Sure, we know one day gravity will eventually catch up to her, but for the time being, Cate Blanchett seems to be aging quite gracefully. The actress and Oscar winner constantly looks refreshed and ageless, so we did a little digging to find out a few of her tricks!

Aging gracefully

"And the people that we all talk about are people who are utterly individual."

Most of us mere mortals don't have paparazzi and beauty blogs documenting our aging process (can I get an amen for that, ladies?!). But when you age in the spotlight as all of Hollywood's heavyweights do, you have an easily accessible record of exactly how your face has changed over the years. When you're Cate Blanchett, though, you don't have much to worry about.

Ever since she came onto the scene in her breakout role in Elizabeth, the 45-year-old Australian actress has wowed us all with her seemingly flawless complexion and her down-to-earth approach to beauty and aging. And while many of Hollywood's elite have their plastic surgeon's number on speed dial, Cate is so far opting to age naturally and gracefully.

At the same time, she told Glamour that she doesn't judge others who choose to go down the plastic surgery route. For Cate, it's simply a matter of looking like her unique self: "I'm not interested in saying what people should and shouldn't do. It depends on how people feel about themselves... I think the terrifying thing is you see all these people who go to the same cosmetic surgeon, and they end up, after a while, looking like everyone. And the people that we all talk about are people who are utterly individual."

Skin care junkie

So how does Cate look so ageless? Call it a combination of lifestyle and product power. Cate has been quite vocal about her love for skin care brand SK-II and has served as their brand ambassador for several years. In an interview with Refinery 29, Cate dished on her fave products from the brand: "The things I definitely always do is use The Essence, and then I used to use the Repair C, but now I use the LXP more. It's still really hydration and the serum, which is about the texture, and moisturizing, and in the end for me, it's sunscreen with UVB."

Cate has also named essential oils such as emu oil, face masks and sunscreen as her skin saviors over the years. Using mostly the same product line for years has definitely contributed to Cate's glow-from-within complexion, and she told Glamour she credits her skin care routine's consistency to her enviable skin: "I think [an even skin tone] comes with consistency… you know fashion is one thing, you kind of can change your silhouette and try this and try that. But I think that with skin care, you know anything that you put into your skin goes into your body, so you want to know it's actually good for you. So I think I don't believe in fashion when it comes to skin care if that makes sense."

If all that wasn't enough to make Cate your next aging role model, she's also quite self-deprecating. When discussing a recent film role, she told The Hollywood Reporter's Scott Feinberg how she feels about her famous looks: "I'm peculiar-looking, I think."

Modesty and a natural beauty? Color us jealous.

2013


Cate Blanchett in 2013
Photo credit: Ivan Nikolov/WENN.com

2012


Cate Blanchett in 2012
Photo credit: WENN.com

2011


Cate Blanchett in 2011
Photo credit:Starbux/WENN.com

2010


Cate Blanchett in 2010
Photo credit: Lia Toby/WENN.com

2009


Cate Blanchett in 2009
Photo credit: Amy Sussman/Stringer/Getty Images Entertainment/Getty Images

2008


Cate Blanchett in 2008
Photo credit:Apega/WENN.com

2007


Cate Blanchett in 2007
Photo credit: WENN.com

2006


Cate Blanchett in 2006
Photo credit: WENN.com

2005


Cate Blanchett in 2005
Photo credit: Z.Tomaszewski/WENN.com

2004


Cate Blanchett in 2004
Photo credit: Fred Duval/FilmMagic/Getty Images

2003


Cate Blanchett in 2003
Photo credit: Fred Duval/FilmMagic/Getty Images

2002


Cate Blanchett in 2002
Photo credit: Dave Benett/Hulton Archive/Getty Images

2001


Cate Blanchett in 2001
Photo credit: Dave Benett/
Hulton Archive/Getty Images

2000


Cate Blanchett in
Photo credit: Dave Hogan/
Hulton Archive/Getty Images

More Cate Blanchett

Get the look: Cate Blanchett's Oscars makeup
Cate Blanchett's Oscars gown
Makeup profile: Cate Blanchett

Product review: Herbal Essences Naked Volume Collection Volumizing Soufflé

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Product review: Herbal Essences Naked Volume Collection Volumizing SouffleName this product:

Herbal Essences Naked Volumizing Soufflé (drugstores.com, $7)

What the product claims to do:

This hair volumizer gives hair lasting fullness without the added weight and features a delightful scent.

How it worked for me:

This product gave my hair a nice, defined wave. It also added beautiful shine and texture.

How this product looks and feels:

The consistency is very similar to other mousses I've used. The bottle is thin and tall.

What I liked about this product:

I liked the great shine it added! A lot of mousses leave hair looking crunchy or dull, but this provided my locks with a pretty shine.

I would recommend this product for: 

Women who want a mousse that will give hair that desired lift without all the annoying weight.

If relevant, how I felt about the scent of this product:

It's nice and fruity!

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Celeb Hairstyle of the Week: Nancy O'Dell

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Nancy O'Dell wearing a ponytail

Nancy O'Dell always looks camera-ready on Entertainment Tonight, but the TV host also looks pretty fab in her time off and at events. Here, I spied Nancy rocking a pretty perky ponytail that's giving me a serious case of hair envy! I asked Shannon Walsh, stylist at Boston's renowned Jeffrey Lyle Salon, how we can all recreate the look at home. Here's what she had to say!

You will need: Blow dryer, volumizing mousse/spray, 1.5-2-inch curling iron, sectioning clips, elastics, bobby pins and hairspray

Get the look

  1. Start off by putting a volumizing mousse or spray at the root on damp hair.
  2. I am a firm believer of drying your hair upside down to get maximum volume.
  3. Once your hair is completely dry, section hair into 3 big sections and clip out of the way. (Mohawk, above the ear and right above the neck)
  4. Begin at the bottom section, and take a 1.5-inch curling iron and curl your hair.
  5. Curl all your hair working up to the mohawk section and once you reach that, try to curl all your hair away from your face (think Charlie's Angels).
  6. Once this is all done, spray everything over, and go in with your fingers to loosely "comb" out the curls.
  7. Leaving your bang section out, tie your hair back into a ponytail with an elastic.
  8. Take the fringe section you left out and using your fingers loosely comb the hair back toward the elastic, making sure you do not pull down the volume or curl. Bobby pin in place.

More 'dos we adore

Kelly Rowland's waves
Kate Middleton's curls
Malin Akerman's twist

Photo credits: FayesVision/WENN.com, Brian To/WENN.com

Friday's Fashion Obsessions: Kaley Cuoco and Anna Kendrick

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Kaley Cuoco
Photo credit: HRC/WENN.com

Kaley Cuoco

One week in fashion, two very different looks! Up first we have Kaley Cuoco looking warm and stylish in New York City while hitting the talk show circuit to promote her show The Big Bang Theory.

Can we all just stop for a second and admire Kaley's beautiful coat? What a gorgeous color. The pretty blue oversized leather jacket is sweet and edgy (thanks to its mix of quilting, zipper detail and color) and is enough of a statement maker on its own. Kaley paired her coat with jeans, a blouse and some open toe platform wedges. The result? Girl next door meets menswear perfection.

The final verdict? Kaley's feet must be freezing in those adorable shoes, so if you're heading out all day (versus popping in and out of appearances) just make sure you keep your tootsies warm with some black booties.

Anna Kendrick
Photo credit: Ivan Nikolov/WENN.com

Anna Kendrick

And next we have Anna Kendrick in a totally different look! The actress previewed some of next season's pastel hues at a movie screening in New York City when she braved the cold temps in this yellow dress.

If you're not really into pastels, Anna's dress is a perfect study in why mixing trends is the perfect way to experiment with a look you might not typically try. After all, this is by no means your typical demure pastel dress! It features mesh detailing and neon lining on the hem, straps and beyond. Anna's pale pink clutch also gives a pretty pastel a bit of attitude with its graphic print.

The final verdict? To finish her outfit, Anna selected a peach mani, black pumps and a soft half updo. All these complementary elements pulled together for a beautiful, feminine look with an extra bit of edge. Love it!

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Shop the look: Warehouse Tweed Zip Off Biker Coat (warehouse.andotherbrands.com, $169)

Shop the look: Warehouse Tweed Zip Off Biker Coat (warehouse.andotherbrands.com, $97)

Shop the look: Splurge on Alice + Olivia's Groove Strapless Sculpted Dress (neimanmarcus.com, $495)

Shop the look: Splurge on Alice + Olivia's Groove Strapless Sculpted Dress (neimanmarcus.com, $495)

More fashion obsessions

Selena Gomez and Zoey Deutch
Naomie Harris and Kristen Bell
Elizabeth Banks and Sarah Hyland

Friday's Fashion Fails: Julia Roberts and Chrissy Teigen

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Friday's Fashion Fails: Julia Roberts and Chrissy Teigen at the 2014 Oscars

Photo credits: Adriana M. Barraza/WENN.com

Julia Roberts

Julia Roberts must have thought she was going to a funeral and not the Academy Awards. Why else would she wear this black lacy Givenchy gown to the Oscars, where she was nominated for Best Supporting Actress? The antique floral pattern reminds us of a slipcover your grandmother would use for her couches.

The top of the column dress is also strange, with a blazer-like neckline that also features a sheer lace panel. Her peplum feels very last season to us, and the way it flares out over her hips makes the mom of three look bottom heavy, not hot. Between the peplum, patterned lace and sheer cleavage baring panel, there's too much going on and none of it works for us.

The final verdict? We know the August: Osage County actress knows how to nail it on the Oscar red carpet. Remember the vintage black and white Valentino gown she rocked back in 2001, when she took home Best Actress? Julia lost the Oscar and our style awards this year in this look. Better luck next time!

Chrissy Teigen

Chrissy Teigen, is that you? We barely recognize the sexy Sports Illustrated swimsuit model in this dress that reminds us of something we'd choose for our sweet 16 party in high school. The supermodel, who's famous for her sexy figure, chose this voluminous Monique Lhuillier gown for the Oscars, where her husband John Legend sang at the Governors Ball.

Her strapless dress isn't horrible, but it just seems juvenile with the big busy pink floral print all over it and huge princess train. We'd love to see the 28-year-old beauty in something fitted to flaunt that famous figure of hers, not a frou frou frock suited for a teenager.

The final verdict? Chrissy's an avid Twitter user with 348,000 followers, so at least she could stash her phone in the pockets of this dress. She tweeted throughout the show about her starry encounters. And while this look wasn't our favorite for her, at least she changed into a slinky black gown for the after parties that was perfection.

More Friday fashion fun

Friday's Fashion Fails: Jessie J and Julianne Moore
Friday's Fashion Fails: Selena Gomez and Kate Mara
Friday's Fashion Fails: Zosia Mamet and Uma Thurman

Get the look: Reese Witherspoon's errand-running outfit

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Reese Witherspoon

Steal her style!

Reese Witherspoon has been America's darling for many years, and we've always been fans of her style. Want to steal her look? You're in luck!


Why we're obsessed

We've loved Reese since she won our hearts over as Elle Woods in Legally Blonde. While her style has certainly evolved over the years, Reese still knows that a little dash of pink can up the stylish factor on any outfit. We're crushing on her simply chic combo of basics and statement accessories here!

Get the look: Reese Witherspoon's errand-running outfit

How to style the look

You don't have to sacrifice comfort for cuteness, ladies. Copy Reese and pair some of your go-to basics (jeans, bold sweater) and take them to the next level by adding a dose of attitude with a statement hat and shoes.

Get the look: Reese Witherspoon's errand-running outfit

More get the look

Taylor Swift's red coat
Naomi Watts' all-black look
Ariana Grande's flirty ensemble

Photo credit: WENN.com

Product review: First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream

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First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream (firstaidbeauty.com, $28)Name this product:

First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream (firstaidbeauty.com, $28)

What the product claims to do:

This rich cream deeply hydrates skin thanks to the combination of shea butter, ceramides, colloidal oatmeal and soothing eucalyptus oil. It also fights against free radicals.

How it worked for me:

I started off using this cream on my dry hands and was impressed with the deep level of hydration. It offers a great level of moisture and once you rub it in, it doesn't leave a greasy aftereffect.

How this product looks and feels:

The texture of this cream is thick, and it immediately feels as if it's working its way into your skin, repairing it from damage.

What I liked about this product:

I liked that I could use it on both my sensitive facial skin and my body. It gave my skin the moisture it was craving!

Describe the results you saw over time: 

Over a few weeks, I noticed that my skin lost less moisture. My skin really responded well to this formula!

I would recommend this product for:

Women seeking a recovery cream they can use all over their body. It's gentle enough to use on your face but also strong enough to help your driest areas, like knees and feet.

How I felt about the scent of this product:

It's very neutral, not fruity or sweet, a bit medicinal but very subtle overall.

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Hair trend: Nicole Richie’s new 'do is to "dye" for

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Once upon a time, Nicole Richie photoshopped a picture of herself with purple tresses and uploaded it to Instagram. It wasn’t long before Kelly Osbourne caught wind of the image and egged her on to make it official:

"I'm in loooooove with @nicolerichie even more now I have seen this pic! I dare you to make it permanent so we can match!!!!"

I’m not sure if this was the nudge Nicole needed to fully commit, but big props to Kelly if it was because her new look is absolutely stunning. Soon after, Ireland Baldwin said bye-bye to blond and amped up her look with a vibrant violet that has taken her beauty to a bad ass, rock star-esque level.

This look proves how important (and fun!) it is to push boundaries with your look — not necessarily with purple hair, but with any risky transformation you want to try. There's nothing more liberating than being exactly who you are (and you know, looking hot doing it).

Want to try your hand at lavender locks?

Get the look

You can get this look at home with L'Oreal Professional Hair Chalk, a new line — debuting in the U.S. this month — that comes in vibrant shades like "Garden Party Green" and our favorite, "First Date Violet."

Hair braid with color chalk tutorial

Photos courtesy of SalonCapri

Here's a fun how-to, courtesy of Senior Stylist Caitlyn Young of SalonCapri, Boston:

  1. First, begin with dry hair.
  2. Start by using the L'Oreal Professional Hair Chalk and brush or rub pigment onto hair in 1-inch pieces. Try focusing the color onto the ends of hair for a gentle ombre effect.
  3. Next, comb through your hair to evenly spread the pigment.
  4. Finally, blow-dry pigmented area on a low setting to set the color.
  5. To style, curl your hair using a 2-inch curling iron and set with Kerastase Resistance Double Force Hairspray.
  6. Brush out curls to create a loose wave and braid hair, securing the end with an elastic. Use clear elastics to blend in with your hair and new colors!
  7. Using fingers, gently pull your braid to separate pieces so that the colors show through!

L'Oreal Professional Hair Chalk at-home applications are available at SalonCapri for $24 each and last five to 10 washes, or contact your fave hair salon for availability info.

3 Stages to trying purple hair

If the thought of going full-blown purple overwhelms you, there's nothing wrong with taking baby steps:

Christina Aguilera purple streaks

Test the waters

Do what Jordin Sparks and Christina Aguilera did and sport purple streaks that pop.

Getty Images for NBCUniversal / Getty Images Entertainment / Getty images
Katy Perry purple ombre

Upgrade to ombre

Do a slow fade: Keep your roots natural and fade your tresses into the hue of your choosing, a la Katy Perry.

WireImage / Getty images
Kelly Osbourne Purple shaded hair

Take the plunge

When you're ready to rock, make sure you talk to an expert about the shade of purple you should go with — like everything, certain shades will go better with your skin tone than others.

FilmMagic/ Getty images

More hair 'dos to try

Has the ombre trend faded out?
How to get red hair like Emma Stone
How to highlight your hair

Product review: Le Metier de Beaute Hydra-Creme Lipstick

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Le Metier de Beaute Hydra-Creme Lipstick in Think Pink (neimanmarcus.com, $25)Name this product:

Le Metier de Beaute Hydra-Creme Lipstick in Think Pink (neimanmarcus.com, $25)

What the product claims to do:

This moisturizing cream lipstick glides smoothly and evenly over lips for long-lasting coverage and rich color. It hydrates and doesn't slide.

How it worked for me:

This lipstick feels incredibly comfortable on the lips. Unlike several other formulas I've tested, it doesn't leave your lips feeling tight and dry after a short amount of time. Its creamy texture glides on effortlessly and feels smooth on lips.

How this product looks and feels:

This cream lipstick feels light on the lips, not heavy and dry like some formulas. It has a rich, saturated color that looks beautiful.

What I liked about this product:

The packaging is beautiful, for one thing. Aside from that, I loved the rich pink color and creamy texture. Finally, I was so glad to read that this lipstick doesn't have parabens in it!

I would recommend this product for:

Women who might be a bit shy when it comes to lipstick. This particular one is very easy to apply, provides gorgeous color and is low maintenance.

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Product review: Venus Embrace Sensitive

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Product review: Venus Embrace Sensitive Name this product:

Gillette Venus Embrace Sensitive Razor (drugstores nationwide, SRP: $10-$13) 

What the product claims to do:

This new razor gives women a closer shave with less irritation. It features five thin floating blades spaced closely together for reduced pressure per blade. The blades adjust to the natural contours of a woman's body and allow the blades to sit flatter on the skin.

How it worked for me:

I noticed a close shave and pain-free, moisturized skin afterwards. A lot of times after using a razor, my sensitive skin stings or feels tight, but this razor didn't produce those negative after effects.

How this product looks and feels:

The color of the razor's handle is a really pretty mint green. It feels smooth to the touch and easy to hold in your hand. The razor itself is strong and sharp without being abrasive, and the moisture ribbon helps provide a welcome barrier between the skin and the blade.

What I liked about this product:

I loved the moisture ribbon! It helped provide that necessary padding that sensitive skin requires when shaving.

I would recommend this product for:

Women with sensitive skin or women looking for a smoother feeling shave.

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Debunking oil pulling: What it actually does

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Woman rinising mouth
Photo credit: Stockbyte/Getty Images

Oil pulling is an ancient beauty and health ritual. The ritual involves placing unrefined plant oils — like coconut or sesame — in your mouth and swirling the oil through your teeth for 20 minutes at night or in the morning. Just go online and you'll likely see people touting the technique as a dubious cure-all for a variety of ailments.

What the fuss is all about

Lana Leahey is one woman who ascribes to the technique. "I actually started doing it because I heard it helps with tooth grinding," she said. "Since I started doing it my breath and overall dental health is better, and my skin seems better, too." She added that she's not certain the actual oil pulling is making a difference, but that the ritual of the practice helps her calm down and make better choices for her health throughout the day.

Others aren't quite as reserved in their support of oil pulling. Erica Stolman at Fashionlush is over the moon about the technique. According to Erica, the benefits "are pretty much endless and differ for everyone," but include general detoxification of the body, clearing of acne and eczema and curing of cavities, migraines and hangovers. She also claimed that her teeth are whiter and her TMJ is improving as a result of oil pulling each morning.

Slow down for science

Research on oil pulling, however, isn't as supportive of the technique as proponents might wish. Snopes reports that there are very few clinical studies of the technique, and the ones that exist only point to minor improvements in markers of oral health. Snopes goes on to point out that there are absolutely no studies to back up the claim that oil pulling cures or prevents diseases, "nor is there any sensible scientific explanation for how simply swishing oil around in one's mouth could accomplish any of those things."

Essentially, this means that you cannot and should not count on oil pulling to help with hormonal imbalances, inflammation, reduction in insomnia or skin health. It certainly can't cure cavities, either.

Reasonable expectations

If you're hoping that oil pulling will address everything that ails you, you're probably barking up the wrong tree. Research studies very clearly indicate that the practice won't "detoxify" your body, since it's your kidneys and liver that do that work anyway. It won't do much of anything for the parts of your body that aren't inside your mouth.

That said, there's certainly nothing wrong with the practice if you like doing it. Your teeth, gums and tongue are likely to benefit from the swishing of clean liquid around your mouth, and it's possible that you'll notice whiter teeth and healthier gums as a result. Like Lana Leahey, you may also benefit from using oil pulling as a calming and relaxing ritual at the end of the day. Just know that the benefits of pulling oil are about the same as pulling water or (better yet) antibacterial mouthwash through your teeth.

More beauty tips

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Cruelty-free beauty gift guide
Why do we wear neutrals instead of nothing?

Product review: Escada Born in Paradise Eau de Toilette

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Product review: Escada Born in Paradise Eau de ToiletteName this product:

Escada Born in Paradise Eau de Toilette (ulta.com, $45)

What the product claims to do:

This fragrance is inspired by exotic locales and features notes of pineapple, guava, watermelon, green apple and more.

How it worked for me:

I really enjoyed this eau de toilette! I'm not a huge fan of fragrances, as many of them are too long-lasting and strong for my taste. In this case, though, the scent wasn't overbearing and it didn't linger in a bad way.

How this product looks and feels:

The packaging is so pretty on this fragrance! The box has a fun design that makes me think of going away on an island vacation, and the bottle itself is sleek and summery. As an added bonus, it comes adorned with a fun little flower!

What I liked about this product:

I loved the fun scent and the sleek packaging.

I would recommend this product for: 

Women who prefer a fruity, summery scent.

How I felt about the scent of this product:

I loved it! It was flirty, fresh and fruity, but not overwhelming.

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Green eyeshadows for every complexion

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Woman wearing green eyeshadow

From sea to forest green

Spring is nearly upon us! Freshen your face with a swipe of green eyeshadow in a tone that's guaranteed to make you look ravishing.

Green is that rare jewel tone that transitions well from winter to spring. You can build green eyeshadow into a smoky look, or keep it simple with a light swipe of color to make your eyes pop.

What's best for your complexion

First, determine if you have warm or cool undertones by looking at the veins on your wrist. If they appear blue, you likely have cool skin tones, but greenish veins mean that your skin has a warm tone.

  • Women with warm undertones should opt for greens that feature a gold or copper sheen.
  • Women with cool undertones will look best with bluish or pewter highlights.
  • Fair-skinned beauties should stay away from bright or dark shades and opt for more neutral or sheer greens to avoid a garish appearance.
  • Dark-skinned women can play a little more easily with bright and shimmery shades of green, whereas neutral and dark tones will tend to blend into the background.
  • Medium or olive skin works best with the best green eyeshadow choices that are a little more nuanced.
Now, here are eight green eyeshadows that will let you rock the look without looking overdone.

1

Colorescience in "Green Shimmer"

Colorescience in "Green Shimmer"

Go big or go home, we always say. Colorescience eyeshadow is loose so you can apply layer after layer of this rich and bold moss green color. Finish the look with a thick and even application of black liquid liner to really make your eyes stand out. (Colorescience, $19)

2

Sonia Kashuk Eye Shadow Duo in "Down to Earth"

Sonia Kashuk Eye Shadow Duo in "Down to Earth"

If you don't know which color to pair with your green, just start with Sonia Kashuk's Shadow Duo. The khaki green shadow is paired with a glittery Champagne for a simple look for daytime. (Target, $9).

3

Frankie Rose Cosmetics' in GI Green

Frankie Rose Cosmetics in GI Green

The forest green of Frankie Rose Cosmetics' GI Green shade is shimmery but subtle. You can keep the application light for a bold daytime look, or layer it on thick with Frankie Rose's Dark Secret for a sultry nighttime eye-opener. (Frankie Rose Cosmetics, $14)

4

Starlooks Pigment in "C Note"

Starlooks Pigment in "C Note"

Not so sure about the green scene yet? Starlooks offers a great option for the newbie in its pigment line. The pigment can swipe on as just a hint of sparkle, or you can stack it on top of a primer for a heavy color. Go bold with the lime tones of "C Note." (Starlooks, $17)

5

NYX Nude Matte Eyeshadow in "Covet"

NYX Nude Matte Eyeshadow in "Covet"

Tired of glitter green? You may find that green is a little more acceptable at work and play if you go with a matte color. NYX's version is an earthy shade for a more neutral look. (Ulta, $5)

6

Urban Decay Eyeshadow in "Bender"

Urban Decay Eyeshadow in "Bender"

This intense color from Urban Decay toes the line between green and charcoal with expertise. You can feel comfortable applying a lot of color without worrying about it flaking onto your cheeks through the night. If you're feeling adventurous, try adding eyelash extensions for to-die-for eyes. (Ulta, $18)

7

M.A.C. Mineralize Eyeshadow in "Tropical Taboo"

M.A.C. Mineralize Eyeshadow in "Tropical Taboo"

Could there be a cooler mix of colors? Feel sexy and alive in lime green, but tone it down a bit with a hint of cobalt blue. This shimmery color scheme from M.A.C. glides on smoothly for a funky alternative to traditional green shadows. (Nordstrom, $21)

8

Sephora Aqua Cream in "Acid Green"

Make Up For Ever Aqua Cream in "Acid Green"

To round out our top eight picks, we selected Make Up For Ever's lime green shade. It looks fantastic as a lid color by itself, or paired with a deep charcoal or violet in the crease. (Sephora, $23)

More on makeup & skin care

How to care for thinning eyelashes
5 Lipsticks to try for date night
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Irish beauty secrets

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Beautiful redhead

Count your lucky charms

Everyone is a little bit Irish on St. Patrick's Day! Celebrate the Green Isle with these Irish beauty secrets that will make you look and feel spectacular.

1

Drink barley water

If you've never tried barley water, you're missing out. The taste isn't to die for, but its health and beauty benefits certainly are. Proponents tout barley water as a cure for urinary tract infections, digestive problems, sore throats and acne. Although versions of barley water are popular around the world, the concoction has long been a favorite folk remedy of the Irish. Drink a cup a day to restore your health and vitality. Curious? You can check out a recipe at Root Simple.

DIY beauty beer treatments
Click here for DIY beer beauty recipes.
2

Try a beer hair treatment

If you think about it, beer is perfect. It's delicious, refreshing and the foundation of a steady buzz. And if that wasn't enough, beer is great for your hair! Beer is full of protein from its malts and hops, which bind to the shaft of the hair to restore its luster and bounce. Simply shampoo as usual, and then pour beer (like Irish brand Guinness) through your hair before conditioning and rinsing. If you smell like a bar, it's all part of the St. Paddy's day charm!

3

Healing herbs

Are you a budding horticulturalist? Comfrey is a plant that is native to the British Isles and Ireland, and is famous for its medicinal properties. Doctors warn patients to never ingest comfrey or apply it to open wounds as a salve, but it is safe for use as a topical treatment. Proponents swear that it soothes aching bones and irritated skin. Check out Mother Earth News for instructions about how to use the comfrey leaves, much like the Irish have historically used the herb.

4

The hair of the dog

And finally, nothing destroys natural beauty quite like a nasty hangover from St. Patrick's Day (or any day, for that matter). The Irish have a few tips for returning your body to its natural luster after a hard night of partying. Stay away from "the hair of the dog," which is Irish slang for just drinking more alcohol to cure a hangover. Instead, you can do as the Irish do and drink two raw eggs to minimize your headache, nausea and dehydration. If your stomach is sensitive or you're scared of salmonella, scramble them up for the same effect on your recovery and beauty.

More from Beauty 365

The difference between perfume and eau de toilette
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Product review: Avalon Organics Vitamin C Renewal Revitalizing Eye Cream

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Product review: Avalon Organics Vitamin C Renewal Revitalizing Eye Cream Name this product:

Avalon Organics Vitamin C Renewal Revitalizing Eye Cream (avalonorganics.com, $25)

What the product claims to do:

This anti-aging eye cream features antioxidant-rich vitamin C, White Tea and Lemon Bioflavonoids to attack skin's oxidative stress and fight the signs of aging. It helps eyes appear defined and refreshed.

How it worked for me:

My under eye skin looked more refreshed and felt more hydrated after continued use.

How this product looks and feels:

The cream comes out white and smooth. It goes on and rubs into the under eye area quite easily and doesn't leave a sticky after feel.

What I liked about this product:

I liked how easy the cream came out and how the small applicator allows you to control the amount of product you desire. I loved the safe ingredients as well as the subtle scent.

What I would change about this product:

I prefer it when my eye creams have a lid/cap, so that's one slight change I'd suggest, but that's a personal preference.

I would recommend this product for: 

Women of any age, but particularly women in their 20s or 30s who might be looking for a gentle yet effective all-natural eye cream to slow the signs of aging.

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Product review: Secret Clinical Strength Clear Gel Deodorant

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Secret Clinical Strength Clear Gel Deodorant (secret.com, $8)Name this product:

Secret Clinical Strength Clear Gel Deodorant (secret.com, $8)

What the product claims to do:

This new formula goes on clear (and stays clear) and dries quickly without leaving a sticky residue. It doesn't leave any white marks due to its clear gel formula.

How it worked for me:

The product was easy to apply and felt nice on my skin (no heavy residue here).

How this product looks and feels:

The packaging is clean and sleek, the feel refreshing, cooling and non-sticky.

What I liked about this product:

I liked the clear gel formula. As a fashionista, I hate it when the odd deodorant mark makes its way onto my prized clothes (try as I might to prevent it), so this invisible formula was ideal for me!

I would recommend this product for: 

Women who are sick and tired of deodorant marks staining their prized clothes (I know I am!).

If relevant, how I felt about the scent of this product:  

It was quite lovely — refreshing but not too perfume-y so as to be annoying.

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Celeb Hairstyle of the Week: Katy Perry

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Katy Perry wearing braided ponytail

When I'm looking for a fun, creative beauty look, I know I can always turn to the lovely Katy Perry! This is one gal who always has a great time with fashion, and pushes the limits of style. Miss Perry recently rocked this bold braided ponytail and we're showing you how you can score her style with the help of Cortney Peck, stylist at Boston's renowned Jeffrey Lyle Salon!

Get the look

  1. Towel dry hair and apply a smoothing product (L'Oreal Smooth Velours).
  2. Rough dry to about 90 percent dry, and then finish with a large round brush to finish ends. (Make sure hair is completely dry to prevent frizz.)
  3. Using a bristle brush, smooth hair into a high ponytail. Spray hair with hairspray (L'Oreal Infinium 3) to secure and keep any baby hairs from falling out.
  4. Separate ponytail into 1 large section on top and 1 small section underneath.
  5. Braid larger section and secure at the bottom with elastic. Braid smaller section and secure with another elastic.
  6. Wrap the smaller braid around the larger braid at the base of the ponytail. Use a bobby pin to secure and make sure ends are tucked in and under the small braid.
  7. Spray with more hairspray to ensure hold!

More 'dos we adore

Sarah Michelle Gellar's braided half updo
Kelly Rowland's wavy hairstyle
Kate Middleton's curly 'do

Photo credit: Judy Eddy/WENN.com

Product review: ColorProof Evolved Color Care DrySpell Color Protect Dry Shampoo

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Product review: ColorProof Evolved Color Care DrySpell Color Protect Dry ShampooName this product:

ColorProof Evolved Color Care DrySpell Color Protect Dry Shampoo (Salons and spas nationwide, $26)

What the product claims to do:

This dry shampoo aims to clean up the look of your hair without water and regular shampoo.

How it worked for me:

This product worked pretty well. I don't often use dry shampoo, but this one made my hair feel fresh in between washings.

How this product looks & feels:

This dry shampoo comes in the form of an aerosol spray can. It doesn't feel sticky and it goes on clear.

What I liked about this product:

I liked the smell! It didn't have a strong alcohol smell like some spray applicators and was not sticky. It was very easy to use.

Describe the results you saw over time:

This dry shampoo kept my hair fresh and clean and it didn't weigh it down.

I would recommend this product for: 

Women with color-treated hair and thick hair.

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