Tag: Health

COVID-19 SOCIAL AWARENESS: Time to be Kind

Published on by Lee3 Comments

The phrase “uncertain times” almost sounds trite at this point, but that’s exactly where we’re at with COVID-19. Total ambiguity. Even those we trust the most, i.e. government officials, doctors, scientists, etc., are going back on their initial direction when it comes to knowing what we should or shouldn’t be doing. The protocol changes daily, if not hourly.

But this state of perpetual dubiousness doesn’t always seem to make a dent in the general public’s compassion. While everything is up in the air, so many have greatly varying ideas of what the right move is. To a certain extent, it’s important to remember to respect others’ boundaries. Some of the Hello Beauties Readers weigh in on their personal experiences.

“We’re living in a time where everyone is judged for every move they make—whether that’s to safely meet up with friends in someone’s backyard or decide not to participate in protests because of the fear of COVID. It’s a “damned if you do, damned if you don’t” sort of thing. This might be an unpopular opinion, but I feel as long as you’re smart, safe, and following the guidelines set by your local officials then you’re doing your part. Obviously, take it seriously (wash your hands, wear your mask, avoid large crowds and unnecessary errands) but tune out the negativity and do what feels right for you.” — Michelle

Even though guidelines are a moving target, staying on top of them is your best bet. They are the most researched and the most unifying, so sticking with the plan shows regard for others.

“We can all agree that this year has been extremely difficult and trying for all. The adjustment to this new norm has not been easy, and I am fully in support of allowing anyone to exercise their rights and do what makes them feel their best. To me, putting shame onto others for choosing to do things that make them feel good does not feel right. If you choose to go to a restaurant or get your hair done (while following proper precautions), that is your choice, and I am not here to judge. However, I will say it is a slippery slope, as it appears the majority is so willing to hear one thing and allow their fear to snowball out of control, something I personally encounter quite often.” — James

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Being extra cautious doesn’t hurt, but projecting one’s fears onto others and playing the blame game can damage relationships.

“This whole time has been such a roller coaster of shame and spiraling. I think people are constantly judging how others have handled certain issues around COVID, i.e. going out to eat, quarantining with other families, not social distancing enough, or even social distancing too much and being too rigid. I’m guilty of it too, in my own way. It’s taken me a few months to realize that this craziness is going to continue for at least another year, and I want to try to find a way to get through the next year or longer, safely, but while also living my life. So for example, I’m going to continue seeing my close friends who I know are as vigilant as I am. I am fine not dining out, but I’m not fine living without Clear & Brilliant, and I am comfortable going to get Facial Treatments with gloves, mask, and sanitizer.

I think most of the people in my life are just trying to do their best to navigate and stay healthy. It’s a stressful time and a first for all of us. It can be hard to not shame and hurtful to get shamed. At the end of the day, none of that matters as long as you are doing what’s right for you and your family, and hopefully you are being responsible.” — Lucy

The bottom line is to protect yourself and those around you, period. Standing on an aggravated soapbox won’t save any of us. Spread the love, because now is the time we all need it most.

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.

Do You Pick Your Skin? Here’s Why And When To Stop

Published on by Lee2 Comments

Whether it’s an old scab on our shin, that bit of dandruff on our scalp, or popping a zit that popped, it’s safe to say that we all – to some degree – pick at our skin. The question is why? What is it about the whole thing that satisfies us, and why is it that sometimes a seemingly harmless habit can go sideways? Curious for the answer, we hit up a psychodermatologist and dermatologist.

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Why We Pick, Pop, and Scratch

The reason why we pick isn’t exactly straightforward, but we can try to simplify. Dr. Stacy Chimento, a board-certified dermatologist for Riverchase Dermatology in Miami, Fla., breaks down skin-picking into three categories:

Mild / Minor Picking Habits: “This category refers to people who pick at their skin when they see that there is a stubborn blemish that they are not used to on their face. Usually, people that fall into this category don’t fixate on picking at their skin,” she says. Think: a few minutes to address the issue, then moving on.

Intermediate Picking Habits: “This level of picking refers to those who pick at their skin if they see anything abnormal, from a change of texture, dry patch, or raised bump on the skin’s surface. These patients tend to also pick at their scalp if they notice any flakes or rough textures,” says Dr. Chimento. Think: turning skin-picking into a pastime.

Severe Picking Habits: “At this point, patients are picking at their skin incessantly even when nothing unusual is present. Patients who develop severe picking habits can often find themselves probing their skin in search of anything to pick, whether that be a scratch, a blackhead, or a scab,” she says. People in this category pick so much it can cause damage or impact their day-to-day life.

Mild skin-picking is understandable and normal; we want to look and feel our best and eliminate anything “weird” or “different” from our bodies. For some, however, picking becomes a slippery slope.

“[Severe] skin picking is often used to help regulate emotions; it can be a coping mechanism to relieve emotional discomfort, physical discomfort, or a blend of the two. If [a severe skin picker] is stressed or anxious, skin picking allows temporary relief,” explains Matthew Traube, a licensed psychotherapist who specializes in the field of psychodermatology.

This behavior actually has a name – “Body-Focused Repetitive Behavior” (BFRB). It is defined as repetitive self-grooming behavior, including skin picking or even pulling hair from your body. In addition to soothing during times of stress or discomfort, Dr. Chimento says that skin picking can also provide a sense of “control” or can even be done out of sheer boredom.

“Picking can occur both consciously or unconsciously,” adds Traube. “Ultimately, the underlying issues do not get addressed and generally people feel awful about it afterward.”

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The Dangers of Skin Picking

Carefully addressing a singular zit (or two), futzing with a scab, examining a new bump or patch, or occasionally scratching at dandruff are all within the realm of normal picking. It’s okay and healthy to pay attention to our bodies and groom ourselves.

The line is drawn when skin picking becomes compulsory and/or excessive – to the point you’re inflicting real damage or pain versus trying to quickly address a skin issue. This damage can range from mild to extreme. Dr. Chimento says that bleeding, bruising, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), secondary infections, and permanent scarring are not uncommon.

In addition to physical damage, severe picking can also impact your life and wellbeing. Compulsory skin pickers can spend hours obsessing in front of a mirror and still feel like they must keep going. Like other addictions, it can distract them from important things in life, such as work, relationships, exercise, and social engagement.

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How to Curb a Picking Habit That’s Gone Too Far

To cease the picking, it’s important to take thoughtful action in order to set yourself up for success.

“In the early stages of trying to ‘quit’, try wearing gloves when your hands are not occupied. If you are at work, keep a squeezable ball on your desk. Each time you experience urges to pick, will yourself to resist for longer durations,” suggests Dr. Chimento. “Sometimes the urge to pick is manifested by skin conditions such as dry, cracked skin, or oily skin that produces acne. Instead of picking at it, treat the problem instead.”

If you’re working through a skin-picking addition and experience breakouts, it’s also better to visit your dermatologist for a facial or cleanup to prevent you from slipping down that slope. Another way to help is to keep your nails trimmed, which makes it harder to pick. And while you’re at it, toss those tempting instruments, such as tweezers, small manicure scissors, and anything else you use to pick your skin.

Traube adds, “It’s common for people to pick more when they’re alone, so I might suggest creating a weekly social schedule to assure that you are more often engaged with others. Social support can make a significant impact on skin picking.”

If small steps fail, even when aware of the issue and attempting to address it, consult a licensed therapist. A therapist can talk you through the process and help you understand the root of what is causing and magnifying the disorder.

“Professional help usually involves a combination of cognitive-behavioral therapy, habit reversal training, mindfulness, and psychodynamic therapy,” says Traube, “We want to address both the act of skin picking and the deeper emotional issues that can provoke it.”

Bottom Line: To a degree, we all pick at our skin, and in the mildest cases, it’s perfectly normal. If you sense yourself slipping or feel like you’re losing control of the situation, tackle the underlying issue and set yourself up for success by following the above advice. If you do find yourself picking to an extreme degree and are struggling to gain control, you’re not alone. A professional can help guide you to the other end.

BEAUTYLEEBAR does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Any information published on this website or by this brand is not intended as a substitute for medical advice, and you should not take any action before consulting with a healthcare professional.

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How to Spruce up Your Work From Home Space

Published on by Lee3 Comments

There was a time in life that I dreamed about “working from home.” Except for the home I imagined was more so a café in Paris where I would write articles while eating multiple croissants. I did not, however, imagine sitting at the dining table unable to leave for anywhere other than the grocery store.

Working from home loses its charm very quickly. I spend all day at home only to reward myself post-work with … more home. While some don’t have a job at the moment, I am grateful that my manager still calls. Blogging and Instagram have really been my main income during this pandemic which allows me to stay home, but I still struggle with the monotony. Keep reading for the seven things I ordered online to make my daily experience more enjoyable.

High-Quality Candles

I have been thinking a lot about the bell system we had in high school recently. The beginning and end of a day signified by the alarming roar of bells. I wanted to signal the beginning and end of my workdays in a less jarring manner, so I have been lighting a candle by my laptop each morning and blowing it out when I am done. The scent helps me relax and transports me somewhere other than the suburbs. Right now, I am alternating between NEST’s Moroccan Amber and Maison Louis Marie’s No. 4. The sweet smell of luxury.

An Intricate Skincare Routine

One perk to isolation is that you can sit in a face mask while replying to emails. There is no one around to laugh at your ZitSticka pimple patches ($29). You can spend 2 hours on your morning skincare routine because you no longer have to waste time commuting. Each morning, I have been cleansing my skin with Sunday Riley’s Ceramic Slip ($35), exfoliating with Glossier Solution exfoliating skin perfector ($24) and following it up with an oil. If I am breaking out, I lean towards U.F.O. ($80) but if not I grab C.E.O. Glow ($40) and my skin instantly feels suppler. There are days I like to sit outside when working and I will put on Sunscreen to protect myself from the sun’s harsh rays. When I am not being lazy, I whip together my turmeric face mask which consists of yogurt, turmeric, lemon and honey for a nice homemade glow.

A Selection of Teas

To avoid gaining the “quarantine 15,” I have been sipping on a wide array of tea throughout the day. This prevents me from mindlessly snacking as a result of boredom. You can make a game out of it too. A sip every time someone on your Instagram feed tags 10 people in a push-up challenge. Another sip when you see someone not social distancing properly. I like switching between green, turmeric and honey chamomile tea but there are so many options out there.

Matching Loungewear Sets

Stay away from me if you are someone that dresses up to work from home. I have been following a strict elastic waistband dress code. Pajamas all day ­≠ sloppy and primitive. With so many sets out there to choose from it is easier than ever to look nice enough for the Zoom meeting screenshot that will inevitably make its way onto Instagram.

At-Home Workout Equipment

I never thought I would be able to work out from home. I miss going to the gym and working out until 9pm. But, I was lucky enough to find online classes that I enjoy and wouldn’t mind continuing it after Covid-19. Francia Raisa – have been live-streaming workouts on IG for FREE. Most of the classes do not require any equipment, which is perfect if you do not have a home gym.

Books

The silver lining in all of this is that we finally have time to do all the things we talked about wanting to do (from the safety of our own homes, of course). I used to complain that there was never enough time in a day to read. So if I do not come out of isolation a well-read genius, I want to be held accountable. If you have a library card, use OverDrive to view your local library’s e-book collection. If you do not, you can download the Libby app to get one. Audible also has a 30-day free trial that grants you access to their vast audiobook collection. Personally, nothing can replace the smell and feel of a physical book for me, and for that reason, I travel to the Dollar store or any supermarket that I know for certain sells books.

Succulents

Having something to take care of feels good when everything else seems outside of your control. You are not alone for you have your plants. They are rooting for you and your health (pun intended). Succulents like aloe vera and the “corn plant” can help purify the air, add fresh oxygen to your space and overall brighten the room. For $35 a month you can get a monthly subscription to The Sill — a modern plant destination for the modern plant lover. Their “Plants for Beginners” box sends you a different hand-potted plant in an earthenware planter each month that is easy to take care of.

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3 Moves To Get YOUR ABS Bikini-Ready

Published on by Lee1 Comment

If you’re anything like me, then you already have way too many bikinis lined up on your shopping wishlist for the new season. With swimsuit weather around the corner comes the pressure to kick your fitness plan into high gear. While a toned body doesn’t appear overnight, there are exercises you can do to quickly tighten and define your core so you can feel your best once bikini season arrives.

Here are tips for how to get your abs ready for summer + my favorite bikinis from IconSwim that compliments the curves.

Before I continue, I do want to say this post was written ahead of time and I purchased these gorgeous bikinis when it was on sale. So no I did not get the price wrong. IconSwim always have a sale going, so don’t be discouraged. Scroll down to read!

Raised-Leg Crunches

Tones: Lower and middle abs

How To: Lie flat on your back and raise your legs, bending your knees to form a 90-degree angle. Place your hands behind your head and slowly crunch straight forward, pulsing your upper body toward your knees. Remember to keep your back flat, chin up, and try to get your shoulder blades off the ground for each crunch.

Reps: 3 sets of 30

Jackknife Push-Ups

Tones: Arms, core, and legs

How To: On a BOSU ball, position your arms shoulder-width apart and do a push-up. As you power up, pop your feet open, and then bring them back together as you go back down. The ball requires you to engage your core muscles while you complete this move, making it great for strength training.

Reps: 3 sets of 30 seconds

Bicycle Crunches

Tones: Middle and upper abs

How To: Lie on the floor and place your legs at a 90-degree angle with your arms behind your head. Keep your shoulders high and your lower back squeezed against the mat. Pump your legs back and forth in a bicycle motion, with your shoulders off the ground. We suggest crunching left and right, touching your elbow to your opposite knee to engage your obliques (a.k.a. love handles).

Reps: 3 sets of 30 seconds

ICONSWIM BIKINI FAVES:

Drippin’ Bikini-Blue,$16

Blue top featuring the word, Drippin in yellow with matching bottoms

Stripe Me Down Bikini-Black,$16

Black, long sleeve, cropped top featuring a white trim design with matching vertically, striped high waist bottoms. 

You Had Me At Aloha Bikini-Blue,$16

Blue top with matching bottoms featuring a cutout design.

Stripe Where I Belong Bikini-Black,$16

Multicolor neon cropped top with a thick stripe design featuring matching bottoms with a thick waistband and color trim

You Had Me At Aloha Bikini-Floral,$16

Multicolor, floral print top with matching bottoms featuring a cutout design.

Sea Level Bikini-Orange,$16

Orange top featuring purple straps with matching high-waist bottoms

Surfin Bikini-Floral Print,$16

Floral print cropped top with matching high waist bottoms. Bottoms feature a cutout and mesh paneling. 

Running Game Monokini-Red/Orange, $16

Redish orange colormonokini featuring a front keyhole cut out with an added strap.

In A Bind Bikini-Orange,$16

Orange short sleeve, cropped top featuring a front knotted style with matching thin strap, cheeky bottoms. 

Two-Faced Monokini-Orange,$16

Multicolor one-piece featuring keyhole cutout designs in the front and back.

All In All Bikini- Neon Yellow,$16

Bright neon yellow top featuring left side gold zipper. Bottoms feature gold zipper down left hip and high waist fit.

Now You Sea Me Bikini-Print,$16

 Multicolor print top featuring matching bottoms with a criss-cross cut out design.

Living The Simple Life Set-Orange,$20

Catch A Break Hikini-Neon Yellow,$26

Yellow bikini top with matching high waisted, high cut bottoms. Paired with a yellow, half sleeve mesh top.

I will definitely be buying more swimsuits from IconSwim! The quality and prices are amazing plus the sizes range from xsmall-2x. Hopefully Rona decides to give us our Summer back so I can actually go to the beach or on a yacht somewhere that is beautiful and secluded. Unlike others, I have been staying inside making sure I don’t gain anymore weight and planning my next mini trip that no one is going to know about sssshhhhh.

HOW ARE YOU GETTING READY FOR THE SUMMERTIME? Comment Below!

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