Strappy lace-up shoes are about to blow up, and we’re loving the effortlessly chic finish they put on any look. Whether you opt for a pair of lace-up flats, pumps, or heeled sandals, it’ll look amazing with midi dresses and baggy jeans alike. To get your hands on this conversation-starting piece, start with our picks below from @shopofficialbee – so many of them are already selling out fast.
It’s somewhat of an urban legend nowadays that you need to spend a lot of money to be considered chic. In the past decade, the high-low trend has emerged, vintage shopping has reached peak popularity, and gushing to your friends about the cheap thrill you just scored is no longer considered low-brow. It’s said cheap thrills that can make your entire outfit feel more on-trend and expensive.
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Whether it’s the addition of a fun jewelry style or a cool third piece, sometimes cheap basics are what end up standing out most in your outfit (and nobody would ever guess was affordable). There are a few cheap basics that almost always fall into this category—from the sweater style that makes your jeans-and–a-T-shirt outfit stands out to the one It piece of jewelry to own this spring. Below are the five cheap Fashion Nova spring basics that look anything but and will make your whole outfit chicer.
Flat sandals are one of those items that don’t require a large price tag to be of good quality. You can usually find quality leather slip-on sandals for well under $100. I’ve found from my personal sleuthing that neutral-colored flat sandals also tend to look more expensive as well—think camel, nude, and beige.
The cardigan trend has been huge for a few seasons now, and this spring is going to be all about shrunken styles. Whether they’re tied around your shoulders or worn the traditional way, shrunken cardigans are one of those magical third pieces that you can throw on over basic jeans and a tee, and all of a sudden your outfit looks thoughtful.
By now, everyone has probably jumped on the bodysuit bandwagon (if you haven’t, they take all the legwork out of tucking your top in), but this spring it’s the asymmetrical style specifically fashion girls will be clamoring for. Luckily for us, Fashion Nova has our back, and the single shoulder detail just makes the bodysuit feel like a step up from your average.
Behold the magical power of a slip skirt. Regardless of its price tag, a solid or printed midi slip skirt just feels expensive. Its sleek silhouette pairs well with virtually anything and has an air of effortlessness about it.
If there’s one jewelry style that’s going to be everywhere for spring 2021, it’s the chunky chain necklace. It seems retailers everywhere have gotten the same memo because affordable favorites Fashion Nova have beautiful versions that ring in right around $15 right now. Throw it on with even a plain T-shirt and suddenly your outfit feels elevated.
Discover and shop the Spring wardrobe that was listed in this post below.
Acne can affect people of all ages at any point in their lives. Some adults need years to clear up acne completely. Unfortunately, getting rid of painful pimples and blackheads isn’t the end of the battle.
Many people have to deal with acne scars and marks. As you can understand, they don’t go away so easily when untreated.
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There is some good news, though! First of all, it’s never too late to start taking care of your skin and get rid of dark spots and acne scars. Secondly, the whole process shouldn’t take longer than three months if you do everything right.
If you are ready to start, here is what you need to know about treating your skin after acne:
If you only have minor acne scars and dark spots, you should try some home remedies. It goes without saying that before you start any treatment, you need to consult a dermatologist. Some remedies listed below might not be suitable for your skin type.
LEMON JUICE
Lemon juice can help you solve the problem of dark spots, but only if you use it once in a while. Regular usage of lemon juice might lead to a painful chemical burn. Also, there is no research that proves that lemon juice can help get rid of old scars.
If you want to try it out, follow safety guidelines. First of all, mix lemon juice with another ingredient such as yogurt, honey, or oatmeal. Secondly, don’t keep it on your face for too long; five minutes would be enough. It’s important to stay out of the sun the day you apply the mixture.
ALOE VERA
Some studies have shown that aloesin (a compound in aloe vera) can help lighten pigmentation. Aloe vera is safe and effective when used at home. According to PrimalHarvest.com, it can reduce inflammation, increase collagen production, and boost immune response.
Usually, people apply pure aloe vera directly onto the skin. But, you can mix it with honey and lemon juice, or buy a beauty product that contains aloesin.
If you want to incorporate pure aloe vera into your beauty routine, there is nothing to be afraid of since this natural component doesn’t cause side effects.
Using aloe vera won’t help you get rid of acne scars completely, but it will hydrate your skin and fade dark spots.
BLACK SEED OIL
Black seed oil, also known as Nigella sativa, has antiviral and antibacterial properties and can help reduce inflammation as well as make your scars less visible.
Moreover, this natural component can nourish your skin and slow the signs of aging thanks to Vitamin A and amino acids. It’s also worth mentioning that black seed oil can also be beneficial for patients with eczema and psoriasis.
Feel free to apply it on your skin. Test this natural ingredient on a small area of your skin to make sure it doesn’t cause irritation or experience any allergic reactions.
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In-Office Treatment for Acne Scars
If you want to see results faster, consider in-office treatments for acne scars. Before you choose any of these treatments, make sure you don’t have any active acne. It’s important to find a reliable provider who will also give recommendations on how to treat your skin after the procedure.
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LASER TREATMENT
Laser treatment is one of the easiest ways to reduce the appearance of acne scars on your face, back, neck, upper torso, and arms.
Only your dermatologist can decide whether you are ready for this procedure.
If you are the right candidate for laser treatment, plan for unexpected finances. A single procedure of laser skin resurfacing can cost about $500 per session. You should also take into account the number of procedures you will need as it’s impossible to treat all scars in one sitting.
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During the procedure, a doctor will remove the top layer of your skin with a laser. It might sound a bit scary, but there is nothing to worry about. You will not feel any pain after two hours. The only side effect is redness; it can take up to two weeks for it to subside.
Your provider will give you instructions on how to prepare for laser treatment. Two weeks prior to the procedure, you will have to quit smoking and stop using skincare products that contain retinol.
After the procedure, your scars will be less visible, and your skin will become smoother. It’s important to mention that this procedure will not help you get soft baby skin right away, and it will take time for your acne scars to disappear completely with proper care.
MICRONEEDLING
Skin needling can help you get rid of acne scars and the first signs of aging. The science behind the procedure is simple — skin produces more collagen during the skin pricking process. Extra collagen helps increase blood flow, improve skin elasticity and texture. Micro-needling is recommended for patients with depressed acne scars.
After the procedure, you might notice some side effects such as inflammation, redness, and bruising. If you drink a lot of water, protect your skin from the sun, and follow your doctor’s recommendations, side effects will go away within a few days.
Micro-needling could also be used for sun damage, hair loss, surgical scars, and stretch marks.
One session costs around $600. Keep in mind that you might need more than one session in order to see the first results. Choose your provider carefully — only professional dermatologists can perform this procedure.
CHEMICAL PEEL
If you want to see the results faster, consider trying chemical peels. You can rejuvenate your skin by removing the top layer of your skin with this procedure. A chemical peel is also recommended in case of active acne and clogged pores.
The only challenge is to find the right type of chemical peel.
At-home chemical peels can help you get rid of fading dark spots. If you have pitted acne scars, it’s better to consult a dermatologist before you try anything on your own.
Use glycolic, lactic, salicylic, phytic, mandelic acids for at-home chemical peels. These acids are good for all skin types. Stay away from peels that contain TCA (trichloroacetic acid) since it can damage your skin if used incorrectly. Before and after the procedure, you should avoid using acne-clearing products and Retin-A.
If you do a peel without expert supervision, the results might not meet your expectations. Also, at-home peels are weaker than the ones used at the doctor’s office. An effective deep peel will require throughout skin cleansing and general anesthesia. You might need to have a chemical peel once every 4-6 weeks. But, again that depends on everything so do your research and talk to your trusted dermatologist.
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The Bottom Line
Getting rid of acne is just the first step. To win the final battle, you need to remove acne scars and dark spots. Even though it’s never too late to start this process, the earlier, the better, as getting rid of old scars can be more complicated.
Consult a dermatologist to find the best treatment for your skin. They may recommend chemical peel, microneedling, or laser treatment. You can also try different home remedies such as aloe vera, lemon juice, or black seed oil.
Remember, it is possible to get clear, smooth skin. You are halfway there! Find the right option for your skin now and enjoy the results!
Don’t get me wrong: work from home life has been great. Working in my pajamas or sweats, eating all day long, and best of all, no bra! Yes, I’ll throw one on for a Zoom meeting here or there along with a work-approved top, but the outfit isn’t the only thing that has to be camera-ready. Let’s be honest: if I’m not leaving the house, my bonnet usually doesn’t leave my head.
Sure, a lot of women just throw their hair up in a ponytail and keep it moving, but for Black women, it’s a whole process that requires proper planning. If my hair is natural, am I going to do a whole wash and go for a 30-minute meeting? Do I need to have my frontal baby hairs laid to the gods every day?
One of the most significant benefits of this quarantine is that my hair has grown so much due to the low-maintenance styles I’ve been rocking, and just because I have a Zoom meeting doesn’t mean I’m going to mess that up. Here’s how:
Let’s start with the obvious. The OG protective styles: braids, twists, faux locs, etc. The first few months of quarantine, I kept my hair in knotless box braids because with all the stress of dealing with a pandemic, the last thing I wanted to do was my hair. I loved the ease of being camera-ready in literal seconds with no daily styling needed.
Yes, wigs can be high maintenance, but hear me out. Make or buy a good quality human hair closure or frontal wig that will last. Style it and keep it on a wig head ready to go. Braid or flat twist your natural hair and rock that when bumming it on the couch. Zoom call in 5 minutes? No problem—grab that wig, slap it on, and boom, you’re ready to go.
Taking the time to do neat individual twists after washing your hair will pay off in the long run. Twists are no longer a style that is only meant to be taken out. From chunky twists to tiny twists, the style is super cute, protective, and lasts at least a week until wash day. Bonus: consider this a two-in-one style if you choose to wear it as a twist out near the end of the week.
Part down the middle for two twists pinned up or do a side part with a couple on each side. The options are endless when it comes to this easy hairstyle. I love that this style is easy and good for your hair while also looking somewhat elegant because it’s an updo. Pair with baby hairs, cute earrings, and Fenty Gloss Bomb lip gloss for the finishing touch.
I can’t make a list of easy hairstyles without including the classic go-to: The Puff. I usually like to do this style the day after a lazy wash day where all I did was let my curls air dry without any styling. If your curls are already defined, just grab a spray bottle along with your favorite gel and slick them up (or back, depending on your mood). Don’t forget to tie your edges with a scarf to really slay this look. *chef’s kiss*
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