Black Friday may be the best time to snag a new TV, buy some new winter outfits and get that donut maker you've been wanting — but it's also a great time to stock up on beauty stocking stuffers for your friends.

Black Friday discounts tend to lean more toward techy items — computers, TVs, game sets — but that doesn't necessarily mean you won't find a good deal on beauty products.

As the ads hit your mailboxes, take a close look at when the deals will be offered. More often than not, beauty deals (like clothing deals) will last longer than just the wee doorbuster hours. So, you may just be able to get away with snatching up the best products earlier in the week... before the stampedes.

DealNews makes a few predictions this year regarding beauty and Black Friday:

1. Free samples and free shipping reign supreme at stores like Kiehl's
2. Amazon rules the drugstore brands with their Lightning Deals — but they go fast
3. Many companies are offering free shipping on fragrances
4. Expect to see free shipping offers at The Body Shop and Burt's Bees

Amazon

Amazon already has deals going on! They have "Deals of the Week" that go quick, but they're constantly updating deals as often as every five minutes. The deals will get better as Black Friday and Cyber Monday creep closer.

Bath and Body Works

While we don't have the official ad yet, BBW always has their "Buy 3, Get 3" deals around Black Friday, but usually this promotion lasts longer than just Friday. Their website promises "something BIG is coming" for Black Friday, so we'll be checking their website constantly between now and Thanksgiving. They're also offering a VIP tote bag you can buy with a minimum purchase amount (most likely, it will cost $20 if you spend $40) with seven of their best products.

Groupon

Although Groupon did not advertise many beauty deals in their Black Friday ad, you'll probably be able to find more on the actual app and/or website. They do have some fun stuff going in their ad, however.

• 75 percent off Sonic Edge extended charge electric toothbrush (check the site for updates)
• 54 percent off Ultrasonic PureSpa aromatherapy diffusers (check the site for updates)

Kohl's

Shop Kohl's Black Friday deals online now and earn $15 Kohl’s Cash when you spend $50. But be careful! The Kohl's cash earned is redeemable only from Nov. 30 to Dec. 6. Black Friday deals are available in-store starting Thursday at 6 p.m.

• 10 to 20 percent off all fragrances for men and women
• Buy 1, get one for $1 on Bliss skincare and eyeliner
• $80 for Chi Air 1 inch classic tourmaline ceramic flat iron or the mini tapered wand (originally $100)
• 50 percent off PUR 5-piece best sellers kit

Macy's

If you can only make it to one store for beauty deals — go to Macy's. They, by far, have the most beauty promotions under one roof. Additionally, Macy's is hosting a "Walk In & Win" event for Black Friday 2016, giving their die-hard shoppers a chance to win up to $1 million in gift codes and prizes. Check out al the details at www.macys.com/win. The doorbuster deals listed below are first come, first serve, starting at 5 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 24, but you can shop deals online now.

$10 Doorbuster deals:

• Clinique "A Little Bit of Happiness" perfume set (originally $20)
• Macy's travel brush set (originally $15) 
• Impulse small beauty palette (originally $15)
• Anastasia Beverly Hills liquid lipstick (originally $20)

Other doorbusters we love:

• $18 Urban Decay shadow box eyeshadow palette (originally $34) 
• $48 Lancôme Auda[city] in Paris eyeshado palette (originally $69)
• $25 Laura Mercier "Twist and Pout" 2-piece lip set (originally $48)
• $20 Stila 3-piece beauty bundles color set (originally $55)
• $12 Philosphy 2-piece "Frosted Fantasies" set
• $15 Benefit 3-piece "Beauty Blowout" set (originally $43)
• $10 Bare Escentuals bareMinerals 3-pice "All is Bright" lip and face set (originally $37)

Target

OK, so Target may not have the most beauty specials this year, but the ones they have are pretty decent. And keep your eyes open for coupons you can use on top of Black Friday deals. Their "Early Access" event is also going online right now. Doors open at 6 p.m. on Thursday.

• $8 e.l.f. holiday sets
• 50 percent off Philips Sonicare 2 series electric toothbrush
• 30 percent off all men's and women's designer fragrances

The Body Shop

The Body Shop has great Black Friday week sales going on right now, and will also usually offer a $35 tote with any $33 purchased filled with a ton of yummy products valued at $145. Their full ad isn't out yet, but we know they'll have their famous 3 for $33 deal.

Sephora

Sephora likes to keep things super VIP and hush-hush, so you have to download the Sephora app on your smartphone to get a full preview of all their Black Friday deals.

Ulta

Black Friday beauty busters start online Thursday at 5 p.m. central time and in stores Thursday at 6 p.m. local time (some store hours may vary).

• $10 Bareminerals kits
• $75 each for limited edition Ultra CHI precious metals styling tools (originally $150 each)
• $9 for select Sexy Hair top sellers
• $8 select TIGI combos
• $10 Urban Decay "Big Fatty" mascara (originally $20)
• $10 Ecotools best sellers collection (originally $20)
• $8 Pacifica deluxe travel set (originally $14)
• $12 Philosophy 3-in-1 shampoo, shower gel and bubble bath (originally $18)

Victoria's Secret

The VS sale is on now through November 30. Beauty goodies include:

• Buy 1, get 1 beauty accessories and gift sets
• $25 eau de perfum

Walgreens

Walgreens has some good deals this year, but you have to have their Walgreens Balance Rewards card. It's free, you just have to sign up for it (and it's not another credit card, hooray!). Ideally, you'll want to have the card ready to go to save you time on the day of.

• 50 percent off select designer fragrances
• $10 luxury bath gift sets
• 5 for $5 SinfulColors nail polish
• $1 Hask haircare masks and treatments

More: Black Friday clothing deals you don't want to miss

Before you go, check out our slideshow below.

We all have good intentions. We have the goal of getting up five or ten minutes earlier each morning and mastering the art of the subtle contour, or drawing the perfect skinny cat-eye, or at least putting on some damn concealer. But beds are warm and makeup is (sometimes) hard, and more often than not, we fall back on our same ol’ messy topknot and mascara.

More: 101 Party Makeup Ideas to Try Right Now

But instead of sticking to the same routine until you’re seventy, why not try something new? And before you say you don’t know how, or you’re not sure where to look, we did the “hard” work of finding the best makeup tutorials that pretty much anyone can pull off. And yes, each of them can be done in less than ten minutes—provided this isn’t the first time you’ve ever touched makeup in your life. Keep reading (and watching!) to get inspired.

A Subtle, Everyday Look

This beauty blogger combines subtle contouring, acne-coverage, eyeshadow and eyebrow applications, and fake lashes in a shockingly fast and easy tutorial that still looks totally natural by the end.

An Insanely Simple Smoky Eye

Smudgy, just-rolled-out-of-bed eyeshadow shouldn’t require three hours of meticulous work to achieve. Thankfully, this one really only does take five minutes (OK, maybe a few more, if you’re a total newb) to achieve.

No-Makeup Makeup for Oily Skin

Wearing a full-face of makeup without looking like you’re wearing a full face of makeup the ultimate goal, right? This super fast tutorial combines high- and low-end products for a natural, matte finish.

No-Makeup Makeup for Dry Skin

For no-makeup makeup to look realistic on dry skin, you need to add in a few dozen layers of moisture through cream-based foundations, concealers, and blushes, like makeup artist Wayne Goss does in this quick tutorial.

Winged Eyeliner Made Easy

No, we promise. A cat-eye look is not as elusive and difficult as it may seem, and this short little how-to makes the look insanely easy, using just one liquid liner pen. Once you get the hang of it, you’ll be able to do both eyes in under two minutes. Yup.

More: 43 Best Inspo Photos for Every Type of Bangs

Originally posted on StyleCaster.com

Of all the winter accessories — scarves, hats, socks — gloves might just be the biggest afterthought. After all, they’re usually the first thing you take off the second you get inside, and you’ll probably never make it through an entire winter season without losing at least one of them, but that doesn’t make them any less vital to surviving the cold.

More: How to tuck non-skinny jeans into boots

But instead of just grabbing a shoddy three-pack at the register of your grocery store — or worse, trying to squeeze your hand in the only pair you have lying around the house, which just happen to be your middle-schooler’s gloves — pick up a pair you’ll want to wear. Ahead, 13 pairs of chic winter gloves for every budget.

1. Talula Fulton mitten

Aritzia, $18

2. Club Monaco Mackenzie cashmere glove

Club Monaco, $99

3. Hestra Olivia in It Blue

Need Supply, $100

4. Verloop colorblock touch screen gloves

Verloop, $29

5. Aldo Proesen gloves in Bordeaux

Aldo, $22

6. Zara zipped gloves

Zara, $23

7. Alice Hannah woven-stitch knit gloves

Asos, $19

8. River Island pom leather gloves

Asos, $38

9. Uniqlo cashmere knit gloves

Uniqlo, $20

10. Topshop check leather gloves

Topshop, $48

11. UGG classic heritage Toscana gloves black

Neiman Marcus, $130

12. Gap stripe merino wool-blend mittens

Gap, $30

13. COS cashmere-lined leather mittens

COS, $79

More: The coziest under-$30 winter accessories to stock up now

Deally, we’d all have a full hour every morning to spend in front of the mirror, meticulously applying sheer layers of foundation and bronzer to achieve a flawless no-makeup makeup look. Actually, no, if we’re talking ideal here, then ideally we’d have a glam squad to do it for us. And ideally we would also be Beyoncé. But, alas, we are not. We are mere mortals with class, work, and kids to worry about, which means more often than not, our mornings are frantic, and appearances fall by the wayside.

More: 21 Photos of How Real People Store Their Makeup

So we decided to ask some of life’s busiest women—i.e. moms—for their best time-saving beauty tricks that get them out the door without looking like a burning tire fire. And yes, they had some excellent advice. From double-duty products to multi-tasking hairstyles, these mom bloggers give their best tricks for saving the most amount of time in the morning.

1. Get you a scrub that can do both.

“I’ve been using Sea Siren Body Scrub by Shiva Rose to exfoliate and moisturize my skin in one easy step. It’s got a blend of oils and butters that leave my skin soft, smooth and glowy. The uplifting scent of lemongrass is an added bonus, as well.”

–Lacey Mackey of Natureal Mom

2. Master a braid.

“A side braid is my go-to busy mama hairstyle. Not only can I make that style happen in seconds, but it looks a bit more put together than the mom bun. I also believe in the power of oversized sunnies and a bold lipstick to distract from tired eyes.”

–Kristin Swenson of Take Time for Style

3. Add some definition.

“When I don’t have time to do my eye makeup, I keep it simple by applying bronzer or contour powder in the crease of my eyelids only. It adds definition to my eyes without taking more than five seconds!”

–Andrea Bai of Glam Hungry Mom

4. Learn the ropes (to beachy waves).

“For easy overnight beach waves, I’ll create two rope braids by parting my slightly damp hair down the middle and then dividing each side into two smaller sections. Starting on one side, I tightly twist each of the smaller sections counterclockwise until I reach the ends, and then wind the two sections around each other in a clockwise motion, securing the ends with a no-crease hair tie. Then I repeat the process on the other side. In the morning, I unravel the twists and loosely break up the waves with my fingers.”

–L.M.

5. Multi-task with face masks.

“When you’re a working mom, your morning routine has to be quick and easy. So in the evenings, I always trying to pamper my skin as much as I can, so I can fall into bed right after my kids do. So a couple times a week, I’ll throw on the BeautyCounter Purifying Charcoal Face Mask while I cook dinner or help my kids with homework. For me, I just want to keep my skin clean and hydrated, so I try to fit that in my routine as often as possible no matter how busy we are.”

–Alissa Circle of Diary of an Addict

6. Ditch the showers.

“Dry shampoo is my favorite trick! Not washing my hair daily is a big time saver in the mornings when I’m trying to get ready for work and also have to take my 11-year-old to school bright and early at 7!” [Editor’s note: Spray your favorite dry shampoo on your roots at night, right before bed, to give the powder time to soak up any scalp oils as you sleep.]

–Jamie Reeves of Blonde Mom Blog

7. Channel Princess Leia.

“I always wash my hair at night, so while it’s still damp—but partially air-dried—I’ll twist and pin it up into Princess Leia buns. When I wake up, I’ll scrunch some Josie Maran Argan Oil in it to smooth out any frizz, and I get the prettiest natural-looking waves the next day. I never have time to curl my hair, plus I’m honestly not very good at it and don’t have the patience for it, so this is my ultimate time-saver!”

–Katie Michelle of Katie Did What

8. Invest in multi-purpose products.

“I use Universalist Multi-Use Colorstick by W3LL People to add a little color to my eyes, cheeks, and lips in seconds. It cuts down on time because I don’t have to sort through my makeup box for different products or brushes. Plus, it easily blends with my fingertips, so I can toss the stick in my bag for on-the-go applications.”

–L.M.

9. Go for the extensions.

“One of my biggest time-saving tricks has been investing in eyelash extensions. They are so amazing! They cut my getting ready time in half in the morning, and most days, I’m ready to go after throwing on some foundation and blush, and filling in my eyebrows a bit. It’s amazing how long lashes give you the feel of wearing a full-face of makeup, even when you aren’t.”

–A.C.

10. Skip the blow-dryer.

“I have extremely long hair, and blow-drying it is not always an option if I’m pressed for time. Before bed, I add a very loose French braid to slightly damp hair, and then, when I wake up, I’ll spray it all with a little Bumble and Bumble Thickening Dryspun Finish, and I’m left with simple beachy waves.”

–A.B.

More: The 3 Best DIY Tinted Lip Balms You’ll Actually Use

Originally posted on StyleCaster.com

A good makeup brush can change your entire makeup game. No, seriously. The right eyeshadow brush can turn patchy, this-is-my-attempt-at-brown-eyeshadow into a beautifully soft, smoky eye, while a good foundation brush can buff even the crappiest of formulas into a diffused, airbrushed finish. And if you don’t believe us, then you’ve clearly never used great-quality makeup brushes, and that hurts our soul.

More: How Often People Actually Wash Their Makeup Brushes

“But good makeup brushes cost a fortune!” you say. “I’ll just stick with the brushes I’ve had since high school.” Uh, no. We promise that you don’t have to spend a hundred bucks on a few brushes to get a quality product. In fact, some of the top-rated, most-beloved makeup brushes are under $10 and have cult-like followings on the internet.

So we did the dirty work of digging through Reddit conversations from the last year, where hordes of beauty-obsessed strangers debated the best and worst makeup brushes, and we found the ten brushes that were lauded over and over again. Below, the final winners—and not one of them has the ghosts of your high-school past in them.

More: The 9 Best Drugstore Foundations for Your Skin Type

1. Tarte Powder Player Bamboo Pressed Powder Brush

“This is the best powder foundation brush I've ever used, ever. I started trying different powder foundations this summer, because I finally figured out that my skin will only tolerate mineral/physical/inorganic sunscreens. Unfortunately, these sunscreens make almost every liquid foundation cake up no matter what I do. This brush buffs the powder in so gently and evenly. I'm not worrying that the application of powder will remove the underlying sunscreen anymore.” -chaoticPuppies

Tarte Powder Player Bamboo Pressed Powder Brush (Sephora, $34)

2. Kat Von D Shade + Light Face Contour Brush

“I had never been able to get natural looking contour before using this brush!” -saraphernalia

Kat Von D Shade + Light Face Contour Brush (Kat Von D, $34)

3. Sigma E25 Blending Brush

“This was my first eyeshadow blending brush. I could't believe the difference in application when using this compared to other blending brushes!” -missbologna

Sigma E25 Blending Brush (Sigma Beauty, $16)

4. e.l.f. Small Stipple Brush

“I absolutely could not figure out cream blush until I bought this. Now cream blush is my favorite!” –Bootycarl

E.l.f. Small Stipple Brush (E.l.f., $3)

5. Wayne Goss Brush 15

“For me, it's the Wayne Goss fan brush. Holy shit, it's so soft and luxurious, and it applies highlighter like a DREAM—like, the most beautiful, natural-looking sheen that's totally effortless. I have so much passion for that damn brush.” –sunsh1neee

Wayne Goss Brush 15, $25; at Beautylish

6. Real Techniques Expert Face Brush

“I love this brush. I used to use my fingers to apply foundation, which can leave it streaky, but this brush does a great job of working foundation into the skin.” -Janeyjimplin

Real Techniques Expert Face Brush (Real Techniques, $9)

7. Nars Ita Kabuki Brush

“Nars Ita is the perfect blush brush for me. It works nicely for highlighter and blush, and is thin enough for me to use it on my nose if necessary. It's the oldest brush I still use to this day, and it's still going strong. It just keeps getting softer and softer with each wash but was never scratchy to begin with. It does shed when you first get it, but it still blends perfectly despite that.” -viiixxvii

Nars Ita Kabuki Brush (Nars, $50)

8. Sephora Pro Featherweight 90

“I love this brush for my setting powder. It’s SO SOFT. Like, it's insane how nice it feels. I upgraded from a Real Techniques powder brush, and feeling them next to each other is zero comparison. It's like rubbing air-whipped cashmere on your face. (Dramatic, I know, but it's honestly the softest brush I've ever touched.)” -viiixxvii

Sephora Pro Featherweight 90 (Sephora, $34)

9. Zoeva 231 Luxe Petit Crease Brush

“It’s really great at applying eyeshadow on my small creases—it’s incredibly precise and perfect for blending out eyeshadow at the crease.” –Screw_The_Roses

Zoeva 231 Luxe Petit Crease Brush (Zoeva, $12)

10. Smith Cosmetics 203 Micro Angled Liner Brush

“This was a complete game-changer for me. I can get a nice crisp wing with this brush, which I had previously thought was impossible.” -MauriceChevalierEh

Smith Cosmetics 203 Micro Angled Liner Brush (Smith Cosmetics, $18)

Originally posted on StyleCaster.com

As someone who works in the beauty sphere, I change up my shampoo with nearly every shower. Of course, there are a few I’m loyal to when I have a big event and need to be sure I’ll have a great hair day (read: IGK’s 30,000 Feet Volume Shampoo, Bumble and bumble’s Thickening line, and Sachajuan’s Ocean Mist Volume Shampoo—noticing a trend?). But for the most part, I’m forever in test mode.

More: The Best Exfoliators for Dry, Winter Skin

And just like with skin care, I’ve always changed my shampoo with the seasons: When the weather drops and my hair has a tendency to get static-y, I swap out the volumizing formulas with more moisturizing or reparative picks. My boyfriend caught me mid-rotation last week, though, and insisted I was crazy. Then my best friend, who isn’t so far removed from the beauty world, agreed with him. So, do you really need to change your shampoo and conditioner in the winter? Is a winter shampoo even a thing? To prove him wrong, I went to the experts.

“Low temperatures and humidity can dry out hair, making it brittle and listless,” says dermatologist Neil Sadick of Sadick Dermatology, who says the scalp often gets itchy or flakey in the cold, even if you have no signs of dandruff during any other season. “Hair loss also increases during the winter due to nutrient deprivation in the hair root, so regardless of the hair type, extra-moisturizing shampoos and conditioners can lock in hydration and ensure nurturing of the hair.” We like Pureology Hydrate Shampoo, L’Oréal Power Moisture Hydrating Shampoo, and Redken Frizz Dismiss Shampoo.

And, though hair loss is a much less common side effect than, say, static, hairstylist and IGK co-founder Aaron Grenia agrees: “Humidity causes hair to swell and frizz, but the dry, winter climate often makes hair flat and static-prone,” he says, noting that if you swap out your shampoo, you combat static and dryness at the source. One other solution if you’re married to the same shampoo all year-round? Use more moisturizing products when you’re out of the shower: Grenia recommends swapping your entire summer regimen for more hydrating products, like IGK’s anti-static spray, Laid Back—which, I can attest, is great at battling annoying flyaways, but not as moisturizing as an oil—and adding in that a once-a-week mask. If you’d rather an oil or cream, try OUAI Finishing Creme, Bumble and bumble Hairdresser’s Invisible Oil, or Tatcha Gold Camellia Beauty Oil, which works great on hair and skin.

More: How Much Moisturizer Do You Really Need in the Winter?

So, even though your hair probably won’t fall out if you stick to the same shampoo, “it’ll have different needs at different rimes of the year,” Sadick says, so pay attention to any increased itchiness of flaking. And if all else fails, you could chop it off into 2017’s must-have haircut.

Originally posted on StyleCaster.com

No matter how many times our derms/moms/past selves yell at us, we’ve all been there: staring at our faces in the mirror, letting the defeat of a popped pimpled gone wrong wash over us. Mostly because it always goes wrong. (When’s the last time you were glad you messed with your face?) But alas, shame isn’t going to make the redness go away any quicker, so we talked to two experts—dermatologist Annie Chiu and makeup artist Ashleigh Ciucci—to figure out how to put makeup on a popped pimple when you have to go out in the world.

More: Kendall Jenner Reveals Her Easy DIY Acne Mask

First, Dr. Chiu begs, go back in time and not pop the pimple at all, because scars and bacteria and other general malady. But say you gave into temptation and you’ve only got a few minutes before you have to head out the door (fun times!) and look presentable/not ooze in public. Here’s what you do:

Hold a Q-tip or warm compress to the site to stop any bleeding or sebum, then clean the area with warm water and mild soap (Dr. Chiu likes Cetaphil). If you’ve got a few minutes to spare, “use warm paste of crushed aspirin and water as a compress to reduce inflammation quickly to help drain contents.” Once you wash it off and the pimple stops leaking, get the Visine: “It immediately gets the red out of the pimple, making it easier to cover,” Chiu says.

Then, dab a bit of Neosporin on the inflamed (but not oozing!) site with a tissue, Ciucci recommends, especially if you’re in a rush. Following by dusting the area with translucent powder, “then find your finest-tipped makeup brush and dot a waterproof concealer like Make Up For Ever Full Cover Concealer right onto the spot. Tap it with your ring finger, and finish with a touch of translucent powder to set it.”

In a perfect world, that’d hide the pimple all day, but we all know it usually looks like a cakey mess by noon. “Plus, if you layer product upon product upon product all day, it can blend with your natural oils to further anger the blemish,” says Ciucci who recommends keeping Dinoplatz Magic Wand Makeup Removers, the same Make Up For Ever Concealer, Muji Thin Cotton Buds, and M.A.C Blot Powder in your purse as a makeshift emergency touch-up kit.

Then, try not to mess with it: Your body will go into healing mode, and any picking or exfoliating before the skin’s actually dead will do more harm (scarring) than good. If you can’t resist a good pick—or, if you feel like you could keep squeezing and get more pus out (you won’t)—pick up a packet of those hydrocolloid blister pads at the drugstore. Throw it on when you’re at home to help draw out whatever gunk’s left in there, and more importantly, to keep your hands away from your face.

More: The Best Skin Acids for Bright, Glowy, Clear Skin

Originally posted on StyleCaster.com

Vegan leather is a phrase you see around a lot these days—on the hangtags of Zara bags, on the label of your new moto jacket, in an article about a new animal-friendly accessories line. But while we’re all pretty clear on what leather is (even if we don’t particularly like thinking about it), the “faux-leather” label isn’t necessarily so clear.

For one, the label is an umbrella term that covers several materials, including PVC (polyvinyl chloride), PU (polyurethane), and many other, more innovative synthetics. According to Joshua Katcher, an adjunct professor at Parsons School of Design and the founder of slow-fashion line Brave Gentleman, the field is constantly changing, so that the cheap, plasticky, unbreathable “pleather” of our parents’ generations bears little resemblance to the vegan-leather options in stores today.

More: 31 awesomely cool coats you won't want to take off

“The technology has advanced so that, in general, any faux leather is going to be better today than it was five years ago or 10 years ago, and especially 20 or 30 years ago,” says Katcher. “That’s the thing about synthetics—they’re always getting better. They’re always getting more refined, more efficient, more sustainable. And when it comes to leather, there’s only so much you can do to an animal.”

Ok, but won’t real leather last you longer? Not necessarily, says Katcher. Like anything in fashion, there are some pieces that are better-made and use higher-quality materials than others. “What we see in the cheaper stores tends to be what’s called a coated canvas—just imagine a piece of canvas with a liquid plastic that coats the top and makes it look like leather,” he explains. Naturally, something like this doesn’t have the same strength and durability of animal leather, especially if it’s poorly-constructed. No one’s denying the sturdiness of a good pair of leather boots or a well-made jacket, but the problem, Katcher says, is that the skins needed to make them are a finite resource, and the processes to turn that biological material into something that doesn’t decompose are incredibly harsh, both for the environment and for the people that work in leather tanneries, who, in places like Bangladesh, can be exposed to toxic chemicals and hazardous working conditions.

More: 21 Vegan Bags That Look 0% Crunchy

Plus, there are now sustainable alternatives that hold up just as well. “There’s nothing magical about skin,” says Katcher. “It’s a material that’s constructed of many, many little fibers that are intertwined. We can reproduce that synthetically, we can grow it in a laboratory, we can find different sources that will result in a similar effect. The only limit is our ability to innovate and right now we are just on the brink of so many exciting innovations.” This year, in fact, Brooklyn startup Modern Meadow raised $40 million to research and develop ways to scale lab-grown leather, which they first successfully grew in 2012. According to Business Insider, they plan to partner with fashion brands and tanneries to help bring the product to consumers in the next few years, a move that could majorly disrupt the $100 billion leather industry.

But aren’t synthetic materials bad for the environment, too? In certain cases, yes. PVC (otherwise known as vinyl), in particular, is “a toxic substance and a known carcinogen and a pretty nasty material,” says Katcher, who avoids the material himself but says other designers still use it thanks to certain aesthetic qualities. Greenpeace calls it “the single most environmentally damaging type of plastic”—though naturally, the vinyl industry claims otherwise. As for polyurethane, the environmental impact varies depending on how it’s produced. “There are many different ways to make it, and some of the methodologies are pretty benign and harmless and there’s other ways that aren’t.”

More: 10 Completely Vegan Makeup Brands to Shop Right Now

So, should you give up leather? Opt for vintage? The choice is yours, but investing in something well-made is the best way to ensure you won’t be throwing something out in a season or two just to buy something new—which, in the end, is really what will have the most impact.

Originally posted on StyleCaster.com

Skincare can get pretty overwhelming. Everywhere you turn, another company is pushing a miracle cream, serum or mask — but the secret to perfecting your beauty regimen might actually lie in good old fashioned exfoliation.

Exfoliating — which is really just a fancy word for removing dead skin cells — helps expose the new and radiant skin underneath the surface. It's also an excellent way to prep your skin for the aforementioned creams and serums. The truth is, if you're looking to give yourself a natural glow, exfoliating from head to toe is one of the easiest ways to achieve it.

And when we say head to toe, we mean head to toe! We so often pamper our faces, but forget to do the same for the rest of our skin below the neck. Whether you are seeking to rejuvenate winter skin, trying to get bikini ready, or getting prepared to apply tanning products, proper exfoliation is key.

How to exfoliate

Supplies:

• Exfoliating cleanser
• Loofah, body brush or exfoliating gloves
• Pumice stone
• Body lotion

More: 5 Great reasons to exfoliate your face tonight

Instructions:

1. Before stepping into the shower, brush your dry skin with your loofah, body brush or exfoliating gloves. This will help remove the loose skin and prepare your skin for the exfoliating process. Begin with the soles of your feet, working your way up your body.
2. Get into the shower and wet your body from head to toe. Don't exfoliate your skin if you are sunburned or have any open cuts or wounds.
3. Use a pumice stone on your feet to eliminate rough spots and calluses. If your feet are extremely rough, soak them in a basin of warm water mixed with a cup of milk for 30 minutes before getting into the shower.
4. Apply your exfoliating cleanser to your loofah or gloves. Begin scrubbing your body in a circular motion starting with the bottoms of your feet and working your way up. When you reach the bikini area, don't scrub too hard because the skin is very sensitive.
5. Use a body brush to exfoliate your back and other hard-to-reach places.
6. Be gentle on your face, particularly around your eyes and mouth. Use an exfoliating product especially formulated for the face, which is gentler than products designed to be used on the body.
7. Don't forget about your hands. You want them to look and feel soft and smooth too!
8. Rinse your body with lukewarm water, and follow with the coldest water you can stand.
9. After stepping out of the shower, apply a moisturizing body lotion all over. Body lotions and facial moisturizers containing alpha or beta hydroxy acids are ideal choices because these acids continue to remove dead skin cells.
10. Use body moisturizer once a day. Exfoliation is drying to the skin, so you must keep your skin hydrated.

Exfoliating products

Select exfoliating cleansers that contain sea salt and/or sugar. They key is to select an exfoliator with regular, round grains because exfoliating with square or irregular grains can cause skin lacerations. These abrasions may not be visible to the human eye, but they can cause serious damage.

More: 7 Steps to the ultimate home facial for glowing skin

Karen Asquith, aesthetician and national director of education for G.M Collin Skin care, explains, "[When] they are damaging the skin, they activate the repair mechanisms. If the repair mechanisms are activated regularly for a long period of time, they are unable to keep up, they become exhausted."

She continues, "This 'burn-out' of the skin’s fundamental functioning causes pre-mature skin aging."

Exfoliating once or twice a week is usually enough to achieve silky skin; however, women with oily skin should exfoliate more often than those with dry skin. If your skin becomes excessively dry or irritated after exfoliation, don't scrub so hard. Cut back on how often you exfoliate, and explore the possibility that you may be allergic to the products you used.

More: Find out how to find the best exfoliator for your skin

"Over-exfoliating is also a concern," says Asquith. "The skin needs time to recuperate, therefore 2-3 times per week is sufficient. Following exfoliation, a body cream should be applied. Depending on the treatment, a slimming, firming, or hydrating cream will penetrate better following an exfoliation and the results will be increased."

So, it's not just about properly removing dead skin. It's about what the new skin gets to soak in. So, Asquith suggests exfoliants that contain other active ingredients. "[Look for] hydrating, anti-septic, soothing and nourishing components thereby addressing more skin concerns and achieving multi-functional actions."

Here are some of our favorite exfoliating products:

• Kaeng Raeng Natural Detoxfoliant Body Scrub, (kaengraeng.com $36)
• Josie Maran Argan Sugar Balm Body Scrub (Sephora, $38)
• SheaMoisture Coconut and Hibiscus Hand and Body Scrub (Ulta, $10)
• The Body Shop Wild Argan Oil Body Scrub (Ulta, $20)
• S.W. Basics Body Scrub (Target, $34)

Before you go, check out our slideshow below.

Nowadays between Instagram, Pinterest and YouTube we have access to makeup and beauty tips galore, and it's getting to the point where we almost have too much information coming at us.

If you've spend hours upon hours searching makeup tutorials and trying to perfect a look but still can't seem to make your features pop the way you want, it might not have anything to do with your beauty skills — and everything to do with your makeup color choices. What most beauty bloggers don't tell you in every video is that choosing the correct shades to match your specific face make all the difference in creating a makeup look you'll be happy with.

Instead of sending you on a wild Google goose chase, we've collected tips from our favorite beauty experts to help us solve your makeup issues by honing in on your unique hair color, eye color and face shape.

What color are your eyes?

It's important to consider your eye color when deciding on shades of eye makeup. Matching your eye shadow to your eye color can look too monochromatic, so instead we've come up with some tips to help your natural eye color stand out. Use the tips below to decide what makeup hues work best with your eye color.

• Makeup tips for blue eyes
• Makeup tips for brown eyes
• Makeup tips for green eyes

More: How to choose the right glitter eye makeup for your eye color

What color is your hair?

Factor in your hair color to determine what makeup hues work best on you. By making the proper color choices with your eye shadows, blushes, bronzers and other makeup, you can make subtle enhancements that make a big difference in your look. Use these makeup tips below as a guide for the shades and techniques that work best for women with red hair, blond hair and dark hair.

• Makeup tips for blondes
• Makeup tips for redheads
• Makeup tips for brown and black hair

More: 7 ways to color your hair without traditional hair dye

What shape is your face?

Our faces are commonly categorized into six main shapes: oval, square, round, heart-shaped, oblong and diamond-shaped. Use the tips below as a guide to determine what makeup techniques work best for your face shape. You'll find advice on eye shadow and eyeliner, foundation, blush and more.

More: How to determine your face shape

• Makeup tips for oval faces
• Makeup tips for square faces
• Makeup tips for round faces
• Makeup tips for heart-shaped faces
• Makeup tips for oblong faces
• Makeup tips for diamond-shaped faces

Remember: Looking great is not about the amount of money you spend on your beauty products — rather, it's about applying the proper techniques and colors to enhance your best natural-born features. Use the makeup tips specific to your eye color and hair color, as well as your face shape to achieve the best look possible.

Originally published March 2011. Updated November 2016.

Anti-aging anything isn’t exactly easy when our skin is up against pollution, practically unable to escape chemical pollutants, free radicals and God knows what toxins. Chemical pollutants are known to damage skin, linked to dark spots and wrinkles. UV radiation and free radicals trigger inflammation and break down collagen. Exposure to all of these things skyrockets when you live in urban areas. So what’s a city girl to do?

Well, take it from these hardworking media pros who work, live and breathe in big cities, where pollution runs high. This is how they scored healthy skin despite everything trying to offend it.

1. Erika Kirschner, SheKnows client services manager, New York

When you’re relaxing, so is your skin. Make sure you give it what it needs. Kirschner wears her favorite serum, even if she’s laying in bed all day. “I’d never go a day without it,” she says. Healthy skin requires diligence, my friends. Wear serums, even when you Netflix and chill.

2. Lauren Swanson, editor-in-chief of Modern Luxury Scottsdale Magazine, Scottsdale

Why add to the list of chemicals doing a number on your skin? Check labels and do your research. Make sure the ingredients are working for you, not against you. Swanson says, “I recently started using a moisturizer that is made of organic ingredients, like jojoba oil, aloe vera, extra virgin coconut oil and this stuff called Queen of Hungary's water. It's a blend of rosemary and vodka (yes, vodka!) and it tightens fine lines like a dream.” 

Uh, how cool does it sound to say that you use queen water on your skin? Yes, please.

3. Adriana Velez, SheKnows food editor, New York

Take it from a food editor, your diet matters. Velez says, “I consider eating a lot of fresh produce part of my skin care.” Why? Because antioxidants fight free radicals, and they win. (Hint: Blueberries, kidney beans and cranberries are just a few examples of foods high in antioxidants. And let us not forget about wine.)

More: It's official: these are the very best products for exfoliating you skin

4. Erica Miller, SheKnows client services manager, New York

Air pollutants can cause dry skin and that goes for your lips too. Miller says, “I like to use a lip scrub once a week before bed and then use petroleum jelly nightly. I have found that this keeps my lips feeling hydrated.”

5. Kenzie Mastroe, SheKnows branded content and pets editor, Scottsdale

Just because you live in the sunniest state in the U.S., doesn't mean you should be basking in the sun's glorious glow every day. Mastroe told us, "It's sunny just about every single day in this city, so it would be easy enough to go outside and tan, but to save my skin from a lot of UV damage, I get a spray tan about once a week."

6. Melissa Kirsch, SheKnows deputy editor, New York

There’s no time for no SPF. In addition to applying sunscreen daily in the morning, Kirsch reapplies mineral powder sunscreen before going back outside. “You’re outside so much in the city, and it’s easy to forget that you’re always, always, always exposed to the sun,” she says.

Bonus tip: She also cleanses with micellar water, which is basically oil molecules in a cleansing water that removes city grime makeup like a charm.

7. Ilana Levin, SheKnows director of west coast sales, Los Angeles

You may actually need to wash your skin less. “I try to wash my face as little as possible (assuming I'm not wearing makeup),” says Levin. Her reason: Soap can be too drying. And she may actually have a point. Overcleansing can strip and dry skin — not exactly what your skin needs in the already dry winter weather. As long as you’re #makeupfree, you may be able to get away with just rinsing. This doesn’t mean you should ditch cleanser for good because, rest assured, there are consequences to going too many days without a cleanser.

8. Lauren Caruso, StyleCaster site director, New York

It’s all in the mist for Caruso. She follows her exfoliator with a facial mist and thena serum. But why? To replenish moisture, of course. Winter is brutal on our skin. Facial mists can make it right again.

More: Insanely easy DIY exfoliating scrubs your skin will thank you for

9. Crystal Lewis Brown, SheKnows director of editorial operations, Phoenix

Believe it or not, living in a big city often means living (and bathing!) with hard water. If you're not among those, count yourself lucky — washing your face in hard water can leave it dry and flaky. "I religiously moisturize day and night," said Brown. "And my family also invested in a water softener. My skin and my hair are all the better for it."

This post was sponsored by Elizabeth Arden.

Take a minute and look in the mirror. What do you see? A gorgeous woman, of course, but does your skin look a bit older than you want it to? If so, it's time to reassess your skin care and lifestyle habits.

The reason: Every choice we make has the potential to impact our skin, for better or worse.

And the hard truth is if you don't protect your mug from these skin care enemies, you'll see the fine lines, wrinkles and sunspots show up a lot sooner than they should.

1. Sun damage

We all love the sun, but it's not good for your skin. In fact, the sun is one of the biggest reasons for skin to show signs of aging prematurely.

Thankfully, you don't have to hide from the sun to avoid its aging effects, but you should always use anti-aging products like Elizabeth Arden PREVAGE® Anti-Aging Daily Serum ($162). This high performing serum reduces the appearance of lines, wrinkles, sun damage and uneven skin texture. It has idebenone, a powerful antioxidant, to help fight environmental threats including pollution, UV rays, and smoke — all of which can make you look old well before your time.

More: 12 expert-approved steps to smoother skin

2. Diet

What you put in your body affects the function of every organ in your body, including the biggest one: your skin. Loading up on foods full of refined sugars, carbs and fats can have an inflammatory effect on your skin, leaving your skin looking sallow and sad.

Instead, loading up on fresh, whole foods full of nutrients like zinc, vitamin C and beta carotene can help keep your skin looking bright and firm thanks to their collagen-boosting ways. And don't forget the protein: Research shows that a lack of protein can cause the skin to tear and wrinkle.

3. Smoking

It's time to kick the habit, for the sake of your lungs and your skin. According to the Mayo Clinic, the 4,000 chemicals in cigarettes damage the natural elastin and collagen fibers in your skin, leaving you with sagging, wrinkled skin on your face and body. It's especially noticeable around the mouth since the act of smoking causes you to constantly purse your lips.

Not to mention, the nicotine narrows blood vessels near the outer layers of your skin and blocks important nutrients like oxygen and vitamin A.

4. Free radicals

Free radicals might sound the like name of a band, but it's actually the name for an atom or group of atoms with an unpaired electron, according to the International Dermal Institute. This electron finds another electron and steals it, creating another free radical and a chain reaction that can damage tissue membranes and lead to inflammation and early aging.

More: It took ages to nail my skin care routine, but I've done it

Where do these free radicals come from? A number of places, including pollution and the sun's UV rays. Your best line of defense against these free radicals is a healthy diet full of antioxidants and environment-fighting skin care products like Elizabeth Arden PREVAGE® City Smart Broad Spectrum SPF 50 Hydrating Shield ($68). This invisible shield combines pollution and UV protection as it packs in plenty of hydration to help skin look younger, longer.

5. Sleep

A lack of sleep wreaks havoc on your productivity (and your coffee consumption), but it can also do a number on your skin. A 2015 study conducted by The Sleep School and Bensons for Beds in the U.K. found women who averaged six hours of sleep for five nights experienced a number of skin problems. The biggest? Fine lines and wrinkles increased in number by 45 percent, while blemishes increased by 13 percent and red areas increased by 8 percent.

“Sleep deprivation is endemic in British society, with almost half of U.K. people regularly sleeping for 25 percent less than the recommended seven to eight hours," Dr. Guy Meadows, founder of The Sleep School, concluded in the study. "As the results of this study show, not only does this have serious effects on mood, cognitive ability and concentration, but also on appearance and self-esteem.”

6. Excessive exfoliation

Wait — aren't we supposed to exfoliate? Yes, but scrubbing and scraping your skin on a daily basis can lead to microscopic tears in the fibers — that collagen and elastin we talked about — and lead to find lines and wrinkles.

But don't give it up for good. Just keep the exfoliating to once or twice a week and amp up your skin care routine with products formulated to fight aging on a daily basis.

More: I finally listened to my mom and started going makeup-free

7. Stress

Stressing about work, relationships and financial woes can have a pretty significant — and immediate — impact on your skin.

"When we’re under ongoing stress, it creates that fight-or-flight reaction in an unrelenting way, and as a result, stress chemicals are released into the body. What we know so far is that the release of those stress chemicals creates biological changes," Dr. Vivian Diller told The Huffington Post.

A 2012 study published in the journal PLOS One found that people with chronic stress had shorter sections of DNA called telomeres. The shorter the telomere, the sooner a cell becomes damaged or dies altogether, speeding up aging in your body and on your skin.

Diller said it best when she told The Huffington Post, "It’s very possible that if you have a life filled with that constant stress, little by little the body is breaking down."

When stress gets the best of you, reach for a makeup that will make a difference, like Elizabeth Arden's PREVAGE® Anti-Aging Foundation Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 30 ($65). This breakthrough makeup repairs skin’s appearance for an instantly perfected look—smooth, firm and naturally radiant. Hydra-Pigments help skin retain moisture while delivering long-wear color and blurring imperfections stress leaves behind.

This post was sponsored by Elizabeth Arden.

Stretch marks suck. Either they strike you during weight loss (you were doing something good for your body!), or weight gain (life happens!), or when you’re growing a human being inside your body (you’re growing a human being inside your body!), and now you’re stuck with these purpley-red, jagged little marks. And high-five for you if you’re cool with them—we really are envious of you—but if you’re not, we’re here to dispel any weird myths surrounding them, so you can get the facts on what they are, how to deal with them, and if they’re here to stay. Below, the three biggest stretch-mark myths.

MYTH 1: Once you get stretch marks, they never fade.

We have good news: This is super false. Stretch marks, which can occur during quick weight loss, weight gain, or pregnancy, aren’t a life sentence, and they typically fade over time, changing from red and pink to white and nude within a few years. No, they won’t totally be gone, but they won’t be as noticeable as they were when you first got them.

MYTH 2: Cocoa butter can prevent stretch marks.

Sorry, but this straight-up isn’t true. Though slathering cocoa butter on your growing tummy definitely can’t hurt in the fight against pregnancy marks (and it’ll definitely help with that uncomfortable itch that comes with stretched skin), research shows that it doesn’t actually prevent stretch marks. The reason? Moisturizers don’t penetrate your skin deep enough to affect stretch marks, which are actually tears in the middle layer of your skin that reveal underlying blood vessels. Basically, your skin will stretch the way it needs to, and only genetics and crossed fingers will decide what happens in the stretch-mark department.

MYTH 3: Stretch marks are untreatable.

Thanks to modern medicine and a universal hatred of problematic skin, treatments for stretch marks have come a long way since your grandmother’s time. The most-effective (and, consequently, the most-expensive) treatment for stretch marks is laser therapy, like Vbeam Perfecta, which is best for new stretch marks, or Fraxel, which can be used on old stretch marks. They don’t come cheap, though—each session can cost up to $1,000, and multiple sessions are required to see results.

If that’s painful to stomach, your next best bet is trying a topical retinoid, specifically tretinoin, which is a prescription vitamin-A derivative that can reduce the appearance of stretch marks with prolonged use. They won’t totally disappear, but they’ll lessen in size and color. The downside: Retinoids can’t be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding, so if you’re expecting or recently gave birth, you’ll have to wait to start treatment.

Raise your hand if, at some point in the last few months, you’ve looked in the mirror and seen fine lines that definitely weren’t there yesterday, then promptly convinced yourself that you aged overnight and the world was ending. Yeah, us too. Hey, there’s nothing wrong with aging — it’s a fact of life, blah, blah — but it doesn’t mean that those new lines, wrinkles and dull patches aren’t alarming and frustrating. And it also doesn’t mean we have to like it.

More: The 5 best under-eye creams that actually work

But we’re here to say that no, you (most likely) did not magically age overnight, so push that worry aside. As the weather grows colder, moisture gets zapped from your skin at alarmingly fast rates (think: grape-to-raisin transformation sped up to mere minutes), which causes a compromised skin barrier. Translation: More visible fine lines, dry spots, irritated patches and an overall blah complexion. Luckily, unless you live in Alaska, the compromised barrier isn’t totally permanent — what up, warmer temps — but if you neglect your skin all winter, you will increase your risk of wrinkles and aging. And that’s where hyaluronic acid comes in.

More: Anti-aging serums that don't have to break the bank

If there were a team of superheroes watching over the skin-care world, hyaluronic acid would be its captain. And yeah, you’ve heard of hyaluronic acid before, mainly because it’s been touted in every skin-care product this year, but it’s not just talk — this stuff really works. Hyaluronic acid is essentially a magnet for water. Once the sugar molecules penetrate your skin, they almost immediately balloon up with water, temporarily plumping fine lines and smoothing out roughness. And though the acid already exists naturally in your skin, its supply significantly decreases as you get older (like most excellent skin things), resulting in a drier, more wrinkled complexion.

The good thing is, hyaluronic acid offers instant gratification by seriously making your skin look amazing within minutes of applying it. No, it won’t permanently turn back the clock on aging, but as long as you apply it in the morning and night, you’ll reap the youthful benefits for the rest of the day. And thankfully, hyaluronic acid isn’t insanely expensive. You can find it in drugstore face creams, like Garnier Moisture Rescue Hydrating Daily Lotion (called “sodium hyaluronate” in the ingredients) and CeraVe SA Renewing Lotion, but to get the most fine line-plumping action, make sure hyaluronic acid is close to the top of the ingredient list. Or just opt for a straight hyaluronic acid serum, like Paula’s Choice Resist Hyaluronic Acid Booster or Skin Inc. Hyaluronic Acid Serum, which can be applied to dry skin before your moisturizer or mixed into your moisturizer for a concentrated dose of hydration.

More: The history of anti-aging products will surprise you

Pick up a bottle (or two) yourself, and then get excited for the dewy, glowy transformation. We promise you’ll notice a difference both immediately and after a full week of consistent use. Just be prepared to explain for the umpteenth time why your skin looks so good at your next holiday party.

Tights may not be the most exciting things in your wardrobe, but damn if they aren’t some of the most important. At their best, they should feel like a second skin—skimming your legs, holding you in in all the right places, making everything from the waist down silky and smooth to the touch.

But in reality, most fall short of this promise; either they’re majorly itchy, rip in a single wear, sag at the crotch, or dig into your waist, leaving angry red marks when you take them off. Sometimes all of the above. Plus, they can get expensive—and only some of the spendier ones are worth the added cost. I’ve held on to pairs I hate for years because I figure it’s better than finding myself with nothing to put on my legs while all the good ones are in the wash (this is a habit I’m trying to break in the name of self-care).

More: 5 Upstart Minimalist Brands to Know Before They Hit the Big Time

Back to those good ones, though: once you find them, it’s glorious. You want to have them on all the time—even to bed, sometimes (when it’s really cold and the thought of taking them off—even to put on PJs—is truly unappealing). Because I’m always on the hunt for hosiery that doesn’t suck, I asked my colleagues for their faves—found, in certain cases, after years of trial and error.

More: 10 New Sock-and-Shoe Combos to Try This Season

Below, see the tights—opaque, thermal, fishnet, and more—that seven STYLECASTER editors are most loyal to.

Individual 50 Leg Support

“In a perfect world I’d never have to wear tights (I don’t enjoy the cold at all and try to stay bare-legged as much as possible) but I live in New York City so sadly, that’s not realistic. My aversion to winter has resulted in a years-long refusal to spend more than $10 on tights, but I’m only making the season worse for myself because those pairs are rarely comfortable and tend to rip pretty easily. This year, I’ll be buying tights from Wolford. My sister swears by them and I’ve heard nothing but rave reviews from friends. They’re pricey, but they look so luxe. Fingers crossed they’ll make winter a bit more bearable.”—Leah Faye Cooper, editorial producer  (Wolford, $61)

Fleece Tights

“These fleece-lined tights are pretty much the only reason I wear dresses and skirts in the winter, otherwise I’d be living in pants from late-November through March. They are super soft and insulated—it feels like pulling a warm blanket over your legs. Plus, you can pick them up at most drugstores, which is aces in my book.”—Cristina Velocci, managing editor (Kushyfoot, 8.99)

Luxe Leg Tights

Oversized Fishnet Tights

“I ordered these oversized fishnets from ASOS a few weeks back and just ordered another pair before they sell out because I love them so much—the fishnet pattern gets a little tighter in the toes, but because they don’t have that ugly reinforcement strip, I can wear them with open-toes shoes (before it gets too cold).”—Lauren Caruso, site director  (ASOS, $9.02)

Donna Karan Hosiery Signature Perfect Opaque Tights

“These tights are beyond soft and mine have lasted me for years. They’re also totally opaque (like, could wear them as pants if you were so inclined—though maybe not out of the house) and don’t dig into your waist at all, which is my ultimate pet peeve.”—Hilary George-Parkin, fashion editor  (Bare Necessities, $20)

Ind. 100 Leg Support Tights

“Ah yes, the holy grail of opaque tights. These are pretty close to perfect as far as hosiery goes, and while, yes, the price is about equivalent to a pair of jeans, the cost-per-wear ends up being pennies, since they’re basically indestructible. Plus, they're warm enough to stand up to New York winters, which is nice when I'm feeling too stubborn to just put on some damn pants instead.”—Hilary George-Parkin, fashion editor  (Wolford, $85)

Hue Women’s Opaque Sheer-to-Waist Tight

“There’s a reason why these are top-rated on Amazon: they’re perfectly soft and just the right amount of sheer without feeling like you’re wearing air. Plus, they’re long enough for my insanely long, 36” inseam, which is hard to find. Tall ladies (on a budget), buy these!”—Chloe Metzger, beauty editor (Amazon, $7.50)

Autograph 60 Denier Velvet Touch Opaque Tights

“My friend in London swears by these, and I bought a pair at her suggestion when I was in town a few years ago. They check off every box I look for in tights: warm, comfortable at the waist, and completely opaque. Favorite tights ever.”—Bibi Deitz, news editor  (Marks & Spencer London, $12)

Heattech Tights

“Uniqlo’s Heattech is amazing for winter. I always layer their leggings and tights under jeans when it gets frigid outside—and these tights can also stand up to the cold solo, even on the chilliest days.”—Bibi Deitz, news editor (Uniglo, $7.90 (was $9.90)

Super Opaque Tights

“The Gap is another great go-to for opaque black tights that are warm but also comfy—and they stand the test of time.”—Bibi Deitz, news editor (Gap, $14.95)

Calvin Klein Opaque Essentials Seam-Free Tights

“I like Calvin Klein’s silky seam-free ones! So soft, never itchy.”—Hannah Hickok, lifestyle editor (Bare Necessities, $16)

Originally posted on StyleCaster.com

The perfect shade of nude lipstick shouldn’t be next-to-impossible to find, and it definitely shouldn’t require you buying a dozen different shades, going home, trying them on, finding that you now look dead, sick, and pale, thinking about the money you just wasted, and promptly punching a wall. Not that that’s happened to me a BILLION times before, or anything. (Ever had that problem? No? Just me? Cool.)

More: The Very Best Red Lipsticks for Your Skin Tone

But seriously, how do the J.Los of the world do it? How do these magical people rock nude, semi-matte lips for years and still totally slay, while I can’t find one damn lipstick that works for my average skin tone? Turns out, it’s not just me—nude lipsticks are tricky for everyone to figure out, according to 100-percent of the people I’ve asked in the office. So I decided to dispel the mystical cloud surrounding them by going to the experts for their best advice.

“Nude lipsticks should be the softest version of your own lip color,” says makeup artist Ashleigh Ciucci. “So to pick the best nude for your skin tone, just find the shade that most closely matches your natural lips, since that matchy-matchy look is actually what creates a nude effect.” Uh, what? Mind blown. “Your lips are one of the most pigmented and pink-toned spots on your face, so if you try to cancel out the color with a lipstick that’s too light for your skin tone you’ll actually wipe your face of its natural pigments, which can make you look sick,” she says.

Cool, so the biggest mistake people make with nude lipsticks (a.k.a. choosing a shade that matches your face, rather than a shade that matches your lips) was what I had done for years. Awesome. But what about the formula itself? Should you choose matte, glossy, opaque, or sheer? “Oh, man—a nude matte is the worst; it requires a ton of work and effort,” says Ciucci, immediately dispelling any uncertainty. “A creamy, semi-glossy texture is going to be the most forgiving, and it’s also look more flesh-toned and realistic.”

Just because creamy textures are “easier,” though, doesn’t mean that nude lipsticks are for the lazy. Since light colors show every flake and ripple on your skin, you need to exfoliate the hell out of your lips (try Fresh Sugar Lip Polish), first, before applying your lipstick. Ideally, you’ll even use matching nude lip liner, first, to help soften the contrast between lip and face. “I actually like to apply the lipstick first and then go back with the lip liner and clean up the edges,” says Ciucci. And because you’re muting your lips, you’ll need to draw attention to another part of your face, whether that be through an insanely awesome smokey eye, or bold-as-hell brows. Otherwise, yeah, you’ll look like the Crypt keeper.

Bet you didn’t know that wearing nude lipstick required a dissertation, but hey: We care about the state of your face. So now that you’re armed with the best nude lipsticks that won’t make you look like death, you can all channel your inner J.Lo for the rest of your glorious life. Scroll down to see our favorite nude lipsticks for your skin tone, along with tips on how to wear them.

More: 13 Celebrities Wearing Winter’s Dark Lipstick Trend

Fair Skin

For those of you with fair-as-hell skin (hey-o, Taylor Swift and Emma Stone), look for warm, peach-hued shades that have more caramel undertones than pink undertones. “Just make sure to brush a bit of bronzer around the edges of your face and blend some blush across your cheeks so your skin doesn't look totally monotone," says Ciucci.

Estee Lauder The Estee Edit Barest Lip Color in Au Natural (Estee Lauder, $22)

Maybelline Color Sensational The Buffs in Bare All (Maybelline, $8)

Too Faced La Matte Color Drenched Lipstick in Sorry Not Sorry Peachy Nude (Too Faced, $22)

Medium Skin

If your skin tone falls in the warm family of Kim Kardashian and Vanessa Hudgens, your best nude shade is rosy beige with a definitive copper tone. “Nude lipsicks with warm undertones provide just enough natural flush to keep the nude from washing you out," says Ciucci. "Anything cool or ashy will make you look pale and wan."

Yves Saint Laurent Rouge Volupte Silky Sensual Radiant Lipstick in Nude Beige (Yves Saint Laurent,$37)

Sephora Le Rose Givenchy Lipstick in Rose Ruban (Sephora, $36)

Nars Pure Matte Lipstick in Peloponnese (Nars, $28)

Dark Skin

For those of you with dark skin, a la Beyoncé and Ciara, opt for a nude in the brown-plum spectrum. And don't judge the color by its packaging: Deep nudes look amazing against rich skin tones. “Don't be afraid to choose something that has a ton of pigment in it, if you're a woman of color," says Ciucci.

Urban Decay Vice Lipstick in Trance (Urban Decay, $17)

M.A.C. Lipstick in Verve (M.A.C. Cosmetics, $17)

Nars Satin Lip Pencil in Het Loo (Nars, $26)

Deep Skin

Those of you with Lupita Nyong’o-level skin tones look phenomenal in brown lipsticks with berry undertones, which appear almost as a neutral, says Ciucci. "For someone like Alek Wek, however, a brown-based lipstick would appear milky on the skin, so try a black-cherry red shade, instead, which will melt right into the skin tone," she says.

Tom Ford Ultra-Rich Lip Color in Temptation Awaits (Tom Ford,  $53)

Bite Matte Creme Lip Crayon in Truffle (Sephora, $24)

Clinique Almost Lipstick in Black Honey (Ulta, $17)

Originally posted on StyleCaster.com

We all love our nails to look beautifully manicured and polished to perfection, but maintaining nail health is no easy feat. All too often nails split, crack or break — and not only is it a bummer looks-wise, but it can be totally painful, too.

If dry, peeling nails are your struggle, there are things you can do to get them back into good health. According to our favorite beauty experts, these at-home remedies that include good old-fashioned TLC and some nutrition tweaks could be your ticket to better nails.

1. Soak nails in olive oil

For weak, thin nails, soak them in extra virgin olive oil 10-15 minutes a day for a month, then twice a week thereafter. This inexpensive home beauty treatment will help fortify damaged, weak or peeling nails.

"Applying vegetable oil helps relieve dryness and cracking of toenails," confirms Dr. Wenjay Sung, a board-certified podiatrist in Los Angeles. "Unlike creams, oils do a better job soaking into the nail bed and moisturize the structural toenail bed longer than creams and gels."

2. Use a cuticle cream like it's your religion

A soothing cuticle cream like Burt's Bees Lemon Butter Cuticle Creme helps nourish dry cuticles and brittle, damaged nails with vitamin E. Massage the cream into and around your nails nightly before going to bed.

Dr. Elizabeth Tanzi, founder and director of Capital Laser & Skin Care and Assistant Clinical Professor, Department of Dermatology at the George Washington University Medical Center, advises, "Cuticles can dry out from repetitive hand washing and manicures, so if they are not given extra protection with a nourishing cuticle cream, they will crack and split, increasing risk of nail infection."

More: The icicle nails trend is taking over Instagram

3. Don't overuse your nails

Your fingernails aren't intended to be tools to open soda cans. Instead, use a pen or other object rather than your fingernails to do these everyday tasks.

4. Wear gloves for chores

When doing the dishes, cleaning and gardening, wear gloves. Detergents and cleansers are harsh on your fingernails, causing drying, spitting and peeling. Soil and gardening can also cause damage to your nails.

As Dr. Tanzi pointed out, the best way to take care of hands and nails is to avoid drying them out. "Frequent hand washing with antibacterial soap is very harsh," she says. "I recommend washing with a gentle cleanser, which will sanitize just as well as harsh products and a good moisturizer afterward to lock in the hydration. At night, a thicker moisturizer on hands with a rich cuticle cream will keep hands/nails looking great."

5. Eat biotin-rich foods

Make sure your diet features foods rich in biotin, such as liver, cooked eggs, whole grains, cauliflower and avocado, among others. In addition to other health benefits, biotin can help strengthen and thicken nails. You can also take a biotin supplement, if necessary.

Next Up: Take a multivitamin daily

Originally published April 2016. Updated December 2016.

6. Take a multivitamin daily

Vitamins are essential for your overall well being and can do wonders for your nails too. Lack of vitamin A, vitamin C and calcium can cause dry, brittle nails. Be sure to take a multivitamin and calcium supplements daily. Also be sure to eat a protein and calcium rich diet.

More: Nail art spotted backstage at Fashion Week that you can create yourself

7. Avoid traditional nail polish remover

Don't use nail polish remover more than once or twice a month, if possible. And never use a nail polish remover that contains acetone, which can dry and damage nails. Try Josie Maran's Bear Naked Nail Wipes instead.

More: 7 Natural polish removers that are good for your nails

If your nails have seen better days, taking a break from nail polish and nail polish can help to support healing. Dr. Sung advises, "To repair damaged nails, sunlight is sometimes the best answer. Using nail polish excessively prevents vital sunlight from reaching the nail bed and may prevent nails from fully healing and regenerating cells. Sunlight is vital to our skin and also to our hair and nails as well."

8. Find a 'miracle' treatment

Sally Hansen Miracle Cure for Severe Problem Nails works wonders. It stops nails from peeling almost overnight. Using a mineral rich formula with protein and antioxidants, this treatment helps restore dry, splitting, damaged nails. A clear coat of nail polish may also help protect nails.

"To prevent dry, damaged nails, you will want to follow two basic nail care steps," says Holly L. Schippers, CND Education Ambassador and Empower Nail Art Lead Educator at FingerNailFixer. "Keep them covered and protected with your favorite nail coating, even if it's a simple, thin coat of clear polish. Second, waterproof them with a high-quality oil that contains jojoba or squalene, ingredients which allow the oil to penetrate the coating and the nail surface so that the oil is able to lubricate individual nail cells — improving flexibility and making the nail less susceptible to damage from water and other chemicals. My favorite is CND Solar Oil."

9. Actually massage your nails

Massaging your fingernails stimulates blood flow to the area, helping them grow longer and stronger. Use a moisturizing lotion and massage hands, cuticles and the nails themselves. And as Dr. Tanzi recommended, get into the habit of applying lotion immediately after washing your hands.

10. Drink a lot of water (no surprise here)

Just as water is for your overall health, that goes for your nails too. Drinking water can help hydrate dry, damaged nails, just like it does for hair and skin.

Even when you've reached the point of no return — where your nails are a hot, hot mess — there still may be a light at the end of the tunnel. For very severe nail damage, time is what you need, and lots of it. Schipper estimates that, when following the steps above, it may take anywhere from 3 to 6 months for new and healthy nails to grow out completely. If you're desperate and in need of a quicker fix, Schipper recommends a product like CND Rescue RXx, which, she says, which will deposit keratin on the surface and improve nail condition in about 4 weeks.

Love a beauty look worn by a friend, model or celeb? Steal it and make it yours with Rimmel London’s new Get The Look App. Point your smartphone at a magazine, photo or person, then try the look on yourself using recommended Rimmel products. Like what you see? You can click to buy the products right in the app!

This post was sponsored by Rimmel London.

Turquoise, tanzanite, and zircon—all three of December’s birthstones come in brilliant shades of blue, a welcome break from the red and green that seems to be creeping into every corner of our existence post-Thanksgiving.

Well, technically zircon comes in virtually all shades of the rainbow, but it’s most commonly heat-treated to appear blue. Word to the wise: Don’t confuse it with cubic zirconia, the man-made diamond substitute common in inexpensive jewelry—zircon is, in fact, the most ancient mineral on earth, with the oldest known crystal dating back 4.4 billion years.

More: 23 Unique Engagement Rings for the Unconventional Bride-to-Be

Turquoise, we tend to be a little more familiar with—especially if we’ve ever spent any time in Arizona or New Mexico, where much of the mineral is mined. The U.S. is the world’s biggest turquoise supplier today, although the stone’s name derives from turques, the French word for “Turks,” the people who first brought the stone to Europe.

Turquoise is considered sacred among Native Americans, who consider it a healing and protecting stone, and have used it in religious ceremonies and in jewelry for centuries. In the Navajo tribe, it is thought that casting a stone into a river will bring rainfall, while the Apache believed that turquoise (rather than, say, a pot of gold) awaited at the end of a rainbow, and had the power to make whoever found it invincible in battle.

More: 25 Ways to Wear a Dress This Winter and Not Freeze Your Ass Off

Tanzanite, finally, was only added as an alternate December birthstone by the American Gem Trade Association in 2002—only 35 years after it was first discovered. As the name suggests, the mineral is mined only in Tanzania, and is in fact the blue variety of the mineral zoisite; it was Tiffany’s that coined its name while coming up with a way to sell the gem in jewelry, marketing it as found only “in Tanzania and at Tiffany’s.”

Below, shop 17 pieces of December birthstone jewelry for every style and budget.

Katerina Makriyianni Gold-Plated Labradorite and Zircon Earrings

Katerina Makriyianni Gold-Plated Labradorite and Zircon Earrings (Net-A-Porter, $224 (was $320)

Rivera Choker

Rivera Choker (Pamela Love,$297.50 (was $425)

14K Gold Birthstone Hoop Stud

14K Gold Birthstone Hoop Stud (Shahla Karimi, $295)

Turquoise Marquise Body Chain

Turquoise Marquise Body Chain (Chan Luu, $320)

Tanzanite Cuff Ring with Pave

Tanzanite Cuff Ring with Pave (Lumo, $320)

Mociun Turquoise & Diamond Ball Cluster Necklace

Mociun Turquoise & Diamond Ball Cluster Necklace (Nordstrom, $780)

Lily Kamper Turquoise & Navy Gold Multi Column Necklace

Lily Kamper Turquoise & Navy Gold Multi Column Necklace (Avenue 32, $630)

Elsa Peretti Color by the Yard Tanzanite Bracelet

Elsa Peretti Color by the Yard Tanzanite Bracelet (Tiffany & Co, $550)

Theia Tanzanite Earrings

Theia Tanzanite Earrings (Taylor Kenney, $120)

Eva Hanusova Gem Rush Blue Topaz, Moonstone, Natural Zircon, and 14K Gold Fill Teardrop Earrings

Eva Hanusova Gem Rush Blue Topaz, Moonstone, Natural Zircon, and 14K Gold Fill Teardrop Earrings (Saks Fifth Avenue Off 5th, $85 (was $170)

Irene Neuwirth Turquoise Round-Link Bracelet

Irene Neuwirth Turquoise Round-Link Bracelet (Barneys New York, $2,510)

Sutra Tanzanite Double Drop Earrings

Sutra Tanzanite Double Drop Earrings (Annoushka, $21,000)

IAM by Ileana Makri Sun Eye Stud Earrings

IAM by Ileana Makri Sun Eye Stud Earrings (Ylang 23, $270)

Orb Cut Ring with Turquoise

Orb Cut Ring with Turquoise (John Hardy, $495)

Meira T Diamond and Tanzanite Bracelet

Meira T Diamond and Tanzanite Bracelet (Bloomingdale's, $975)

Sydney Evan 14K Hamsa Pendant Necklace with Turquoise, Diamonds, and Rubies

Originally posted on StyleCaster.com

We’ve all had those mornings when you hit snooze one too many times or the kids refuse to put on their shoes for a full 20 minutes or the idea of doing anything to your hair seems as easy as scaling a mountain. We get it. And hey, you don’t need permission to wear your hair in a messy topknot for the rest of your life if you want to. But if you do want to mix up your usual hairstyle and have practically zero time for your morning 'do, then you need a bunch of fast, efficient and pretty dang cute styles willing to work with you on the go.

More: How to style your hair to flatter your face shape

So we rounded up our favorite quick hairstyles that you can do at a stoplight, in the carpool line or while you’re negotiating the shoe situation with your 6-year-old for the hundredth time this month. Scroll down to see our favorites and how to do them!

1. Gather hair loosely into a low ponytail and tie with a clear elastic. Wrap ponytail with a satin elastic, pull out face-framing layers and you’re good to go.

2. Scoop the sides of your hair back into a half-up ponytail, tie with a clear elastic and then thread the tail of the ponytail up and through the top of the hair to form the twisty sides.

3. Secure your curls in a high ponytail, pulling at the crown for volume, then wrap a sheer ribbon or scarf around your head and tie it into a bow near the front of your face.

4. Comb your hair back into a low ponytail and secure with a gold clip hair tie for an instantly jazzed-up finish.

5. Brush your hair into a half ponytail, slide in a heart-shaped metallic clip and snap it closed. Slide in a few bobby pins to keep the clip in place if your hair is especially slippery.

6. Pull your curls into a high ponytail, leaving the shorter layers loose and forward, like bangs. Massage the ponytail to form a voluminous bun.

7. Divide your hair in half at the nape of your neck and tie it in a knot, then double-knot the ends. Pin the knot in place with bobby pins and let your hair fall where it may.

8. Tie your hair into a low ponytail and braid the hair, stopping 2 inches short of the ends. Secure the ends with a clear elastic, and pull at the edges of the braid until it’s fat and wide.