Skincare with a message – Keys Soulcare by alicia keys

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Keys Soulcare, Alicia Keys’ beauty line, landed in our lives at the perfect moment. Created by the musician as skincare with self-care at its core, Keys Soulcare launched in 2020 (a year when we needed an awful lot of self-care) and started with a range of 10 facial and lifestyle products, from moisturizers to a scented candle. Now, Keys is adding body care to the mix: a hand and body wash, body cream, and body oil, all bearing that same philosophy of taking time for yourself.

“While working closely with Alicia on the facial skincare, we wanted to also infuse many of the ancient and nourishing ingredients into our body offerings,” says board-certified dermatologist Renee Snyder, who co-created Keys Soulcare along with Keys. “It is so important to take care of ourselves, and the body is another moment where we can focus on self-care.” To add to the ritual of it all, the products also come with a corresponding affirmation meant to be spoken with each use. “Alicia and the team develop each affirmation based on the action and feeling you will experience with the offering,” explains Snyder. 

Because Keys is known for her radiance—in addition, of course, to her legendary voice—I was intrigued to try her latest products to see if I could capture a bit of her glow. Keep reading for a full breakdown on the new products courtesy of Snyder, and for my honest reviews to find out if I’m fallin’ for them (sorry, couldn’t help myself).

Courtesy of Keys Soulcare

All About Keys Soulcare, According to the Derm Who Co-Created It

The benefit of being developed by a dermatologist? Each ingredient has a purpose. The formulations are also cruelty-free and made without things like parabens or sulfates. What you’ll find instead? Loads of moisturizers, all of which are intended to strengthen the skin barrier. “The skin performs many important functions for us; from helping us eliminate toxins to temperature regulation, but most importantly it acts as a protective barrier,” explains Snyder. “When your skin is hydrated, it is resilient and plump.”

So while the Renewing Body and Hand Wash may be a cleanser, it still puts nourishment first. Think skin-loving Manuka honey, shea butter, and cocoa butter. Meanwhile, the sage and oat milk scent (Alicia’s fave!) helps promote “comfort, clarity, and balance,” according to the derm.

The body cream, as you’d expect, is also chock full of hydrating ingredients. “Sunflower seed oil is extremely high in vitamin E, an antioxidant that helps protect the skin from harmful UV rays and other environmental stressors,” explains Snyder. But that’s not all: “Ceramides, along with shea and cocoa butter, promote the infusion of hydration into the skin.” Topping it off is the rose of Jericho, which “can spring back to life at the first drop of water, imparting one’s skin with the feeling of a renewed vitality,” according to Snyder.

Keeping with the theme of protecting the skin, one of the key ingredients in the Sacred Body Oil is baobab oil, which “is known for its regenerative abilities,” according to Snyder. “It is excellent for softening the skin and aids in healing due to the levels of vitamins A, B, and C, along with omega 3, 6, and 9 fatty acids,” she explains. The formula also contains marula oil, “which is purported to contain 60% more antioxidants than most other oils, packing a powerful punch to the skin,” adds Snyder.

Renewing Body and Hand Wash Review

Keys Soulcare Renewing Body and Hand Wash

Keys Soulcare Renewing Body and Hand Wash ($24)

I’m not particularly picky when it comes to soap and body wash, but I’m a sucker for a good scent. My skin can also get dry, so I was excited to see if this formula is as hydrating as it claims. Right off the bat, I loved the fragrance—it reminded me of expensive perfume, without being overwhelming. The texture of the body wash is gel-like, and it lathers up fairly well (especially considering it’s sulfate-free). As I used it, I remembered about the affirmation part of the deal, luckily, they’re printed right on the packaging. For the body wash, the affirmation is “I love myself as I am.” I repeated it a few times until I admittedly felt a little silly. But I tried!  

Immediately after toweling off, I could tell my skin felt softer and more hydrated than with my usual body wash, but the true test, in my opinion, would be how it held up post-shower. The next day, I’m pleased to report, my skin was just as soft. I also smelled amazing (if I do say so myself). The product has been a mainstay in my shower since the first use so I haven’t been using it as a hand soap, but the pretty bottle would look great on the sink, too. 

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Rich Nourishing Body Cream Review

Keys Soulcare Rich Nourishing Body Cream

Keys Soulcare Rich Nourishing Body Cream ($36)

I love a good body cream, so this was probably the product I was most excited to try. I would say it’s almost like body butter, both in texture and color (picture Kiehl’s Creme de Corps). Let’s just say she’s thick. A little goes a long way, which is something I learned after I overdid it on leg number one. It’s not scented, which I appreciated, especially because I was still in the throes of the body wash. It didn’t feel greasy after applying, but I let it sink in for a few minutes for good measure. All in all, it’s a solid, super-moisturizing formula, but if you’re looking for something lightweight, you may want a more traditional lotion

Sacred Body Oil Review

Keys Soulcare Sacred Body Oil

Keys Soulcare Sacred Body Oil ($25)

While I love a good body cream, I don’t often use body oils, but I was there for the full Keys experience. First off, I was a fan of the dropper bottle, which is super convenient to use. It also has the same fragrance as the body wash, but again, isn’t overpowering. As instructed, I warmed the pale golden oil between my hands first, and it applied like a dream—not greasy at all, and just enough slip. It’s recommended to use this right after showering, but I found myself reaching for the bottle to moisturize my elbows and cuticles, all times of the day. Consider me a body oil convert!

More Keys Soulcare Products to Shop

Keys Soulcare Golden Cleanser

Keys Soulcare Golden Cleanser ($20)

This calming facial cleanser is also made with Manuka honey, as well as chamomile and turmeric.

Keys Soulcare Be Luminous Exfloliator

Keys Soulcare Be Luminous Exfloliator ($22)

Containing both physical (Hojicha powder, oats, and mung beans) and chemical (lactic acid) exfoliants, this gentle scrub can be used once or twice a week.

Keys Soulcare Harmony Mask

Keys Soulcare Harmony Mask ($28)

With both activated charcoal and Manuka honey, this clay-like mask clears skin without drying it out.

Keys Soulcare Skin Transformation Cream

Keys Soulcare Skin Transformation Cream ($30)

Rich and hydrating, this moisturizer contains hyaluronic acid and ceramides to moisturize, and bakuchiol to reduce the appearance of fine lines. Bonus: It also comes in a fragrance-free version.

Keys Soulcare Comforting Balm

Keys Soulcare Comforting Balm ($12)

Use this balm on lips, cheeks, elbows, or any spot that needs a little extra TLC.

Keys Soulcare Reviving Aura Mist

Keys Soulcare Reviving Aura Mist ($22)

Spiked with witch hazel and scented with rose, this face mist can be used as a toner and anytime skin needs a refresh.

Keys Soulcare Obsidian Facial Roller

Keys Soulcare Obsidian Facial Roller ($25)

The Keys Soulcare face roller is made with obsidian, a naturally occurring volcanic rock said to protect against negativity.

Keys Soulcare Sage + Oat Milk Candle

Keys Soulcare Sage + Oat Milk Candle ($38)

Keys and Snyder smartly packaged the line’s signature scent in candle form for maximum relaxation vibes.

Have you tried Keys Soulcare products yet? If so, which is your favorite? Let me know down in the comments what you think about the products mentioned above. xo

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How to LAST LONGER IN BED

Published on by Lee1 Comment

Hello again, dear friend Anonymous. Welcome back to our sex talk column where readers submit questions, and we do our research and then craft a story to answer as many as we can. This week we tapped Cheryl Fagan, sexpert and founder of On Top, to provide the steamy secret to standout stamina. She’s also responsible for deeply explaining holistic sexuality to our readers.

We know you’re antsy for the answer, so we’ll let her take it from here.

I Want to Last Longer in Bed. What Can I Do? 

“The answer to this question will differ from person to person. This question takes some self-inquiry. It’s not necessarily a matter of tricks and techniques you need to learn but getting real within and knowing what it is that you are expecting from the experience of sex.

Why do you want to last longer? Are you getting tired? Or bored? Is it because the pleasure is so intense you can’t get enough or is it that you think you ‘should be going for longer? This question needs to be considered from a biopsychosocial approach. There could be something going on hormonally or maybe medication is having an influence (I’d encourage seeing a medical professional rule this out). We want to consider some cultural myths or expectations that you may need to let go of. Are there interpersonal relationship issues? Do you feel safe? Do you know your sexual needs matter just as much as your partner’s? How are your self-esteem and sexual energy?

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We live in a culture that is constantly telling us that sex is about performance, but satisfying/nourishing/mind-blowing sex is so much deeper than that. It’s not just about lasting longer but being completely satisfied. So how can we help you find sexual satisfaction…

Without knowing all of the details, I’m going to approach this from a psychological perspective. What did I mean earlier when I said it’s not about tricks, but about self-awareness? Knowing your sexual inhibitions and how to work with them is the key to having the sex life you desire.

Sexual inhibitions can be conscious or subconscious blocks that we have to experience sexual desire or arousal. They can be a result of your upbringing, social conditioning, past experiences, and so on.

It’s not about more techniques or skills but lessening those inhibitions.

One aspect of being sexually empowered is knowing your ons and offs. What turns you on and what turns you off? List them. Consider your most memorable and mind-blowing sexual experience (if you don’t think you’ve had that—what is a fantasy?), and write down what you felt, smelled, saw, tasted, and heard. What was so good about it? Now think of a not-so-great sexual experience and answer those same questions. Don’t judge yourself—if you don’t like some positions, that’s OK, or if you like the lights a certain way, that’s OK. Once you have a better sense of this and can communicate that to yourself and then to your partner(s), you’re on the road to the sex you desire. Being able to honestly communicate about sex is one of the greatest determining factors of how enjoyable sex will be for you.

Once you understand your ons and offs better, act on that. Do the things that increase your arousal and limit the offs. When you’re so aroused, present in the moment, and prioritizing your pleasure and your partner’s pleasure, I am sure it will last as long as you both need for the satisfaction you’re after.”

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The content provided in this article is provided for information purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice and consultation, including professional medical advice and consultation; it is provided with the understanding that BeautyLeeBar, LLC (“HelloBeauties”) is not engaged in the provision or rendering of medical advice or services. The opinions and content included in the article are the views of the interviewee only, and BeautyLeeBar does not endorse or recommend any such content or information, or any product or service mentioned in the article. You understand and agree that BeautyLeeBar shall not be liable for any claim, loss, or damage arising out of the use of, or reliance upon any content or information in the article.

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RED FLAGS on Dating Apps

Published on by Lee1 Comment

Before I address red flags to look out for on the dating apps, I invite you to store them in a little closet of your brain, once you’ve been made aware of them.

So often, I see clients focusing too much on red flags in their search for love, versus focusing on the person they are looking for.  

This is easy to do, as there are a plethora of interesting characters on the apps, but when you’re primarily focused on what isn’t working, you’ll continue to attract creepy weirdos asking for more bikini shots until you shift into an authentic mindset that sets you up to be open and ready for Mr. Right.

Red flags are important to pay attention to, but don’t let them take over what could be a fun process with your potential partner at your literal fingertips. 

Finally, don’t take red flags so personally or seriously. If you connect with someone you were intrigued by, but ultimately, the person didn’t demonstrate much interest in return, in the words of Ariana Grande, “Thank you, NEXT!”

Red flags don’t have to be perceived as some major problem.

They are signs to help keep your eye on the prize of finding someone who’s perfect for you, and not get sucked in by chemistry and outlandish words with no follow-through on actions, which leads me to …

Editor’s note: Although this article uses male pronouns, the advice applies to all sexual orientations and gender identities.

Red Flag #1:  

He’s demonstrating pen-pal vibes over wanting to meet in person.  

I think I’m being generous when I say that if he doesn’t ask you out within 72 hours of connecting, BOY BYE. You’re not looking for a pen pal. You’re looking for a partner. Him asking how your day was, without caring to meet in person, isn’t enough.

Red Flag #2:  

He avoids or deflects when you ask him out.  

It’s 2021, ladies. I’m not above making the initial move if it feels organically right to you. But if he’s coming up with excuses, or doesn’t rise to the occasion to meet, while still touching base to say an occasional, innocuous “hey,” you ain’t got time for that. 

Red Flag #3:  

He has nothing written on his profile.

I have to laugh and be honest here because the love of my life had zero words on his profile, but I was intrigued by his good looks and kind eyes, so I swiped right anyway, out of curiosity to find out more. The only reason I conceded the lack of info on his profile was because he immediately engaged with me, volunteered his first and last name, asked questions about myself, and made it clear on the first evening we connected that he wanted to meet in person. So, swipe right on an empty profile at your discretion, but if you have to continue to guess his interest or what he’s looking for, once you start to engage, unmatch. In general, I think putting effort into what you say about yourself and who you’re looking for in that teeny writing space shows that you’re taking the dating process seriously, but as I always say, there are exceptions to every rule.

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Red Flag #4: 

He doesn’t ask questions about you.

Seriously, this just isn’t too hard. When someone is interested, he will ask questions about you. They don’t have to be crazy deep questions, but they also don’t have to be lame and surface-level. You have to suck it up a little bit with basic Q’s when you’re first connecting—like, “How long have you lived in Miami?”—to get a good flow going, but if you’re feeling a fun, flirty, and witty vibe, look for him to be making just as much effort to get to know you, as you are him.

Red Flag #5:  

He jumps straight to asking you out without a warm-up exchange.

Matching on a dating app doesn’t always mean you should ultimately go out. Let’s feel each other out a little bit before the abrupt ask. Sure, it’s nice to not beat around the bush, but there’s a finesse that can tend to go out the window on these apps. Ask me a question about myself. Let’s see if there’s a good vibe going before jumping the gun and locking down a time. Am I sounding like Goldilocks a little bit? YES! Don’t ask out too soon, but don’t become pen pals either.

Red Flag #6:  

His profile says what you should and shouldn’t be.

He has this small amount of space and he’s telling you things like, “No drama. Be funny. You need to be ambitious.” LAME! Tell me who you are and what kind of relationship you’re looking for. Don’t tell me who I need to be for you. Also, his definition of funny could be different from yours. Overall, I see this as a sloppy, entitled approach, and this heartbreak/finding-love coach has no time for it. 

Again, all of the above should be taken into consideration, but don’t let red flags be at the forefront of your mind while swiping on the apps, because it’s always your thoughts that create your results—not the dating apps.

If you’re thinking you need to keep your eye out for red flags, more than keep your eye out for Mr. Right, your results will consistently be more red flags.  

Happy swiping!

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Claire Byrne is a heartbreak/finding-love coach, and the host of her podcast, Stop Wanting Him Back & Find Someone Better. Click here for more information on her group program.

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Embracing Your KINKIER SIDE

Published on by Lee1 Comment

No kink-shaming, we’re so past the days of (safe) sexual fantasies feeling taboo. Here’s the deal, it’s common (and normal) to have a little kink in you—how it’s defined and the level of it is different for everybody, of course.

If you enjoy rough foreplay or wild sex, there’s no need to have shame around it. You may not even realize you’re kinkier than the average person until you’re with a new partner, or, on the flip side, you may discover additional desires as you get older. It’s natural that as we mature and gain sexual experience, we learn what we like and want in the bedroom. 

First and foremost, when exploring the world of kink, the two most important things are communication and consent. So once you’re on the same page with your partner, here are some tips to incorporate kinky behavior in your sexual relationship.

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Be expressive. 

Say exactly what you want or describe your fantasy to your partner. If you need some ideas, watch a movie or film with a tasteful and steamy sex scene. Or ask your close friends for some tips. Even something small like finding an unusual position could be considered kinky to some. Plus, it’s so hot to surprise your partner with a new move under the sheets (or wherever you prefer to get it on). 

Be open.

Keep the dialogue open with your partner. Even if you’re not 100% sure you want to try something, share your curiosity. If you say your vision out loud and have a conversation about it, you’ll feel more comfortable possibly exploring it the next time you’re hooking up. 

And be open when your partner shares their desires as well (given you’re comfortable with what they want to do). Try not to judge if it’s something you’re not used to. Instead, say “I’ve never done that, and I’ll have to think about if I want to go there.” As we mentioned earlier, everybody has different deeds that turn them on, and there’s no reason to make your partner feel weird for vocalizing them. Just kindly say you’re not into trying it. 

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Set and define your limits. 

With any act under the BDSM family, it’s important to set hard and soft boundaries. Sexual scenarios that you’re open to exploring or curious about could fall under your soft boundaries list. Whereas anything you consider off-limits would be on your hard boundaries list. Also, be sure to pick a safe word before entering the rougher side of the kink. 

The content provided in this article is provided for information purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice and consultation, including professional medical advice and consultation; it is provided with the understanding that BeautyLeeBar, LLC (“Hello Beauties”) is not engaged in the provision or rendering of medical advice or services. You understand and agree that BeautyLeeBar shall not be liable for any claim, loss, or damage arising out of the use of, or reliance upon any content or information in the article.

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