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In my opinion, the hair hall of fame simply isn’t complete without these three iconic products: Living Proof’s PhD Dry Shampoo, Kérastase Huile Ultime Oil, and Olaplex No.3 Hair Perfector. Whenever I have a nosy around friends’ and family members’ bathrooms (who doesn’t?), I almost always spot the latter perched on the side of the tub or tucked into the shower tray. Thanks to its ability to make parched hair look and feel brand new, it’s become something of a staple among blondes and anyone who heat-styles their hair — and you’d be hard-pressed to find a colorist who doesn’t sing its praises.

So when Olaplex announced to a room full of beauty directors back in January that it was discontinuing the product, we all fell silent. Getting rid of the treatment that has single-handedly saved our strands? Bold move. But it’s because it was making space for something new: Olaplex No.3 Plus Complete Repair Treatment. 

What is Olaplex No.3 Plus and what are the benefits? 

Olaplex No.3 Plus Complete Hair Treatment is a souped-up version of the original pre-shampoo treatment we all know and love, with a few welcome tweaks. First off, No.3 Plus is still a pre-shampoo treatment, and like its predecessor, it features bond-building technology in the form of a very special ingredient, bis-aminopropyl diglycol dimaleate. This single-molecule bond builder helps repair broken disulfide bonds in the hair. 

I asked Afọpẹ́ Atoyebi, a trichologist and cosmetic scientist, what typically causes this. “Exposure to chemical treatments [like bleach and dye], high heat, UV radiation, or repeated mechanical stress [over brushing or blow-drying] can disrupt this network of bonds, leaving the hair weaker and more prone to breakage,” she explains. Bond-building treatments work by targeting damage within each strand. “This helps to restore stability, strength, and resilience to damaged or weakened hair,” Atoyebi adds. 

So the star bond-building ingredient remains, but the new and improved version packs even more moisturizing power. First, there’s shea butter, which deeply nourishes dry hair, leaving it soft and glossy. Then come a handful of nourishing, shine-boosting oils, including avocado and sunflower seed oil. Finally, there’s sodium PCA, a potent humectant that draws in moisture and naturally hydrates strands, helping to reduce dryness and frizz. 

Olaplex No.3 Plus Complete Repair Treatment, $34 for 100ml

What makes Olaplex No.3 Plus special? 

Besides the upgraded ingredients, No.3 Plus also takes a snip of the time. While the original needed over 10 minutes to work its magic, No.3 Plus transforms hair in just three minutes. I expect a lot from my hair products, but I’m impatient — and the thought of going back to the OG No.3, when this works so quickly, isn’t appealing. 

I can also confirm that the results are so much better. I wash my hair every day and style it using a heated blowdry brush, but I’m terrible at remembering to use heat protection (I know, I know), so my hair often becomes split, dry, and frizzy. After one use of No.3 Plus, my lengths looked and felt brand new. I totally understand why Atoyebi calls bond-building products “scaffolding” for hair. Mine no longer feels weak, like it might snap if I brush it, and my hair looks much better styled with heat. It’s glossier, softer, and even looks thicker. Sorcery or science? 

Atoyebi says that most people can benefit from incorporating bond-building treatments into their routine. Happily, No.3 Plus works on all hair types, including coily, curly, wavy, and straight hair: “Bond builders are particularly beneficial — and in some cases arguably essential — for hair that regularly undergoes chemical, thermal or environmental stress,” she explains, adding, “This includes hair exposed to bleaching, coloring, frequent heat styling, or chlorinated water.” Since bond-builders help reinforce weakened areas of the hair fiber, this supports the hair’s ability to maintain smoothness and retain moisture, says Atoyebi. 

Even better, Olaplex is confident that the new product helps with length retention. I’m trying to grow my hair long, but I don’t want a haircut to undo all my hard work, so I’m making sure I use this consistently. 

What to know about Olaplex No.3 Plus Complete Repair Treatment

• A three‑minute pre-shampoo treatment featuring Olaplex’s patented bond-building ingredient, alongside nourishing shea butter and oils for added shine and softness.

• It will take the place of the original Olaplex No.3 Hair Perfector.

• Works on all hair types — coily, curly, wavy, and straight — to strengthen and reinforce hair exposed to bleach, dye, heat, or environmental stress.

How do you use Olaplex No.3 Plus? 

Like the original, Olaplex No.3 Plus is meant to be used every one to three washes. Once I’m in the shower, I drench my hair and apply it generously from root to tip, using my fingers to rake the product through evenly. That’s when I use my cleansing balm to break down the day’s makeup, shave my legs, or wash my body — anything that gives it a little time to work. Then I rinse it out and follow with my trusty shampoo and conditioner.  

My hair feels so great afterward that I often skip my leave-in products altogether, though I know that if I want to grow my hair, I still need some form of heat protection. Olaplex Volumizing Hair Heat Protective Weightless Blowout Mist is lightweight and never leaves my fine strands feeling greasy or dull. 

What’s more, a few of my beauty director peers with bleached hair are just as enamored with the product. I’ve also given a bottle to my mom, who dyes her hair and fries it with straighteners every day — and she’s already asked for another. 

Where can you get Olaplex. No.3 Plus? 

First, a note on the original formula: it will be available on the brand’s website for a limited time, essentially until it sells out completely. After that, only No.3 Plus will be available, but the brand is confident that fans of the OG will love the new version even more — I already do. 

Olaplex No.3 Plus Complete Repair Treatment — $34 for 100ml and $68 for 250ml — is available from Olaplex.com as well as Sephora.com, and Nordstrom.com. 

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In the year 2026, it’s becoming increasingly difficult to justify not wearing sunscreen every day. The risks and hazards of UV damage are well-documented, and sunscreens at every price point have flooded the shelves of drugstores and prestige boutiques alike. Yet folks are still struggling to find the right formula that won’t cause breakouts. Well, to finally put the issue to rest is none other than Sofie Pavitt, licensed esthetician (and unlicensed acne whisperer) whose namesake brand is unveiling perhaps its most highly-requested product to date: Sunscreen. 

I’m a big fan of Pavitt, and as someone who has had acne for decades, I can attest that her line is among my favorites for keeping my complexion clear. The Mandelic Clearing Serum is a holy grail of mine since it’s gentle enough for everyday use; the 8% mandelic acid works wonders to exfoliate and prevent breakouts from forming. But back to Screentime — ahead, read my review of the latest addition to Sofie Pavitt Face’s lineup. 

What is Screentime and what are the benefits?  

Screentime is Sofie Pavitt Face’s first sunscreen, and combines hydrating benefits with broad-spectrum (UVA and UVB) SPF 30 protection. It’s formulated with ectoin (an amino acid derivative that hydrates and supports the skin barrier), niacinamide to reduce inflammation and excess oil, and vitamin E to nourish and soothe skin. In other words, Screentime’s benefits extend past sun protection to actually hydrating skin in both the short- and long-term.  

What makes Screentime Non-Comedogenic Hydrating Sunscreen special?  

For me, it’s all in the texture; like Pavitt’s Beauty Innovator Award-winning moisturizer, Screentime is silky, hydrating, and luxurious. (It really puts the “elegant” in “cosmetically elegant,” — industry speak for a sophisticated, innovative formula.) A lot of “acne-safe” sunscreens lean heavily into fluid-thin, dry-touch textures with a matte finish, most of which aren’t enough to quench my skin or leave it feeling rough to the touch. The moisturizing nature of Screentime, however, is what makes it really unique. 

Another thing that stood out to me right away was how well Screentime absorbed into my skin. It’s not a mineral formula, which came as a bit of a surprise, since I’ve found that physical sunscreens that have zinc or titanium oxide as an active ingredient tend to be better tolerated by my oily and acne-prone skin. Rather, it’s a chemical one, using avobenzone, homosalate, and octisalate as UV filters. 

Chemical sunscreens tend to get a bad rap despite being FDA-approved, but they have several redeeming qualities that shouldn’t be overlooked. Chemical sunscreens promise an invisible, cast-free finish, making it a popular choice for darker skin tones. Secondly, they typically feel lighter on the skin, which is great news for acne-prone skin types that tend to get oily quickly. (This also makes chemical SPF ideal for wearing under makeup.)

What to know about Screentime Non-Comedogenic Hydrating Sunscreen:  

• Provides broad-spectrum (UVA and UVB) SPF 30 protection.

 • Hydrates skin and supports skin barrier with ectoin, vitamin E, and glycerin.

 • Is non-comedogenic, meaning it’s unlikely to clog pores.

How do you use Screentime Non-Comedogenic Hydrating Sunscreen, and is it worth it?  

Sofie Pavitt (the person) suggests using this as a final step in your daytime skincare routine, or even in place of moisturizer if you’re especially oily. (In my experience, my skin doesn’t feel too greasy even when using this on top of my day moisturizer.) I follow the two-finger application rule for sunscreen (dispensing the product down the full length of my index and middle finger, and applying it all over my face, neck, and ears).

Worn alone, it leaves my skin with a glowy (but not sweaty) finish. Because of how hydrating it is, I also love how it sits under makeup; any dry patches are virtually gone, and my skin has a naturally healthy, hydrated glow that works as the perfect base for foundation and concealer. 

As a beauty editor with an embarrassingly large sunscreen wardrobe with options at every price point, it says a lot that I keep reaching for this one ever since I started testing it a month ago. The texture is a big reason why: even on warm, humid days, it still feels comfortable on the skin, never heavy or greasy, and it holds up surprisingly well during workouts or other sweaty situations. According to Pavitt, it can even be applied over makeup by pressing a small amount onto the skin with a sponge or clean fingers. (This is good news, given that you should reapply your SPF roughly every two hours when outdoors.)

Where can you get Screentime Non-Comedogenic Hydrating Sunscreen? 

You can currently shop Screentime at Sephora and Sofie Pavitt Face’s website, where it retails for $38. However, you can enjoy a 10% discount by subscribing to the product via the brand website; considering SPF is a true everyday essential, having it automatically restocked (and saving some cash in the process) makes staying consistent that much easier.

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March’s New Fragrances Smell Like Spring Incarnate

When I heard that Summer Fridays was stepping into fragrance, it didn’t exactly come as a shock — but it certainly made my day. You see, the brand has a track record of perfectly judged scents. Its most recognizable bestseller, Lip Butter Balm, already comes in a lineup of flavors that rivals an ice cream shop, while body products like the Summer Silk Nourishing Body Lotion — with its vanilla-floral notes — hint at a love for gourmand, dessert-inspired scents. 

So when I say I could immediately picture (or maybe smell?) what a Summer Fridays perfume might be like, I mean it as a compliment. When I think of Summer Fridays, words like “dreamy,” “cozy,” and “soft” come to mind, thanks to products like Cloud Dew Moisturizer and Dream Lip Oil — it’s the kind of mood that practically begs to be translated into scent. 

The only question was whether it would live up to that vision. 

As the name suggests, Summer Fridays’ Sunlit Vanilla Eau de Parfum combines solar notes (“summer” is one half of the brand’s name, after all) of tropical coconut and citrus with gourmand caramelized crème brûlée and warm vanilla. Top notes of citrus bergamot and heart notes of heady coconut add dimension and complexity in a sea of trendy vanilla scents. 

For Lauren Ireland and Marianna Hewitt, cofounders of Summer Fridays, Sunlit Vanilla was a long time in the making: “As founders, we’ve always loved vanilla,” they tell me, adding, “It’s why we chose it as the original Lip Butter Balm flavor and scent. Six years later, it’s still one of our best sellers, and that nostalgia and love from our community felt like the natural place to begin.”  

The best way I can describe Sunlit Vanilla is cookie-dough-meets-vanilla extract mixed with expensive sunscreen — in other words, utterly delicious and addictive in the best way. On my skin, vanilla shines as the primary note, but as it dries down, the coconut and citrus linger for a result that has a nostalgic, comforting quality of childhood beach days. (It reminds me of what a vanilla version of Vacation’s namesake eau de toilette, a fine fragrance interpretation of the brand’s beloved sunscreen lotions, would smell like.)  

If you ask me, it’s something of a masterpiece, but according to the brand, it’s tough to get vanilla fragrances just right: “Vanilla is having a huge moment, but a lot of interpretations lean very heavy where you’d only want to wear it during fall or winter or in the evening [because] they go very sweet,” says Ireland and Hewitt. “We wanted ours to feel like sunlight on skin: warm, radiant, a little golden.” 

And that’s exactly how it feels, except it isn’t as fleeting as sunny weather; I found that Sunlit Vanilla lasted impressively long after applying — almost like how your skin and hair still smell softly of sunscreen and salt water after a beach day. I also love how beautiful the bottle is, with the vintage-inspired gold cap and fluted glass detailing. Given the initial hype from Summer Friday stans, all signs point to early bestseller status, right up there with the Lip Butter Balms. 

Summer Fridays’ debut fragrance is launching exclusively on the Sephora app on March 16 and at Sephora and the Summer Fridays website on March 17, but early reviews have already begun trickling in. One Redditor received a sneaky Sephora sample of the fragrance in an online order, which prompted eager comments from people clamoring to know more. “I’ve been searching for a perfect vanilla scent that isn’t too sweet or heavy, and this is absolutely perfect,” shares another lucky commenter. “The smell reminds me of lying on a towel by the water and staring up into the sun,” describes a third.  

I’ve already been wearing Sunlit Vanilla nonstop since receiving an early bottle, and I have a feeling it’ll be my new signature scent through the summer. And to think that this is just the beginning of Summer Fridays’ fragrance journey… 

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There are three things I’m certain I’ll never get tired of in life: Gilmore Girls reruns, a perfectly strong cup of coffee, and the French manicure. I’m so wedded to my classic French tip that my manicurist jokes she might have to take my temperature whenever I float the idea of more intricate nail art. But that doesn’t mean French nails can’t be interesting. 

If my Instagram feed is anything to go by, nail artists are shelving the classic white tip for experimental French designs — from stripes and bandana prints to chrome and cat-eye finishes — and it’s proving the ultimate nail inspiration for spring. 

Without further ado, here are 20 French manicure ideas that go beyond the traditional tip. 

Micro Butter French

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A post shared by JC NAILS LONDON (@jcnailslondon)

Butter yellow is back at the first hint of sunshine, and we’re not mad about it. JC Nails London keeps the French tip skinny on these squoval nails, giving a subtle nod to the season’s daffodils. OPI Infinite Shine Long-Wear Nail Polish in This Chic is Bananas is a beautiful muted yellow. 

Cat-Eye French

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A post shared by 𝑬𝒎𝒊𝒍𝒚 𝑱𝒐𝒏𝒆𝒔 – 𝑬𝒅𝒖𝒄𝒂𝒕𝒐𝒓 & 𝑵𝒂𝒊𝒍 𝑨𝒓𝒕𝒊𝒔𝒕 – 𝑵𝒆𝒘𝒄𝒂𝒔𝒕𝒍𝒆 𝑼𝒑𝒐𝒏 𝑻𝒚𝒏𝒆 (@emilykatnailartist)

A cool twist on cat-eye nails? Opt for a thick French tip. This iridescent shade on educator and nail artist Emily Jones catches and disperses the sunlight like a priceless emerald. 

Polka-dot French

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A post shared by katiejohnsonnailartist (@katiejohnsonnailartist)

Our love for polka dots knows no bounds. If your spring wardrobe is already full of dotty pieces, why not bring your nails into the mix, too? Katie Johnson’s inverted French nails prove that pink and red are a color combo made in heaven. 

Spring French

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A post shared by Rachel Coast | nail technician | BIAB | Hertfordshire | (@rachelcoast_)

Nail technician Rachel Coast calls this her “spring French,” with opaque white tips against a pink background that evokes the season’s blooms. 

Deep French

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A post shared by 𝐑𝐚𝐞🌹 (@wildflowerr.studio)

The ’90s called — and apparently, it’s lending its deep French tips to 2026. Ask your manicurist for a thick French, and consider a cat-eye polish, like this matcha green painted by Rae at Wildflower Studio, to make the iridescent pigments really pop. 

Stripe Tips

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A post shared by Iola Pallade (@iolapallade_beauty)

Iola Pallade is summoning summer with these beach towel–esque tips on a milky pink base. We love the mix of spring pastels with deeper jewel tones, giving the manicure a transseasonal edge. 

Side French

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A post shared by Gabriela Santiago (@gelpolish_bar)

The side French breaks with tradition, swapping the tip for a slick of polish that hugs the side of the nail horizontally. Created by Gabriela Santiago, the baby pink paired with a petal-sheer base is stunning. Try Sally Hansen’s Insta-Dri Nail Polish in Pink Blink at home. 

Micro-French

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A post shared by LEICESTER | BIAB SPECIALIST (@kkdnails)

Even French tip naysayers can’t deny the elegance of a micro French tip. We especially love this forest green version by @kkdnails on Instagram, which pops beautifully against the sheer base. If you’re doing your own nails at home, OPI’s Nail Lacquer in Rated Pea-G is pretty close. 

Cloud French

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A post shared by Sorelle Beauty 🤍 (@sorelleinbeauty)

If you’re not ready to part with your classic white tip, try something milkier and more sheer for spring — like this “cloud”-like shade, painted at Sorelle Beauty. 

Micro Double French

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A post shared by Natalie Walker ~ Nail Specialist ~ Dali Creative (@natalie_thedollshouse)

What’s better than the micro-French? Double micro-French, obviously. The results are worth the close attention to detail. We love this muted blue and white tip by nail specialist Natalie Walker. 

Bandana Print French

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A post shared by KAE🤍| DERBY NAIL TECH| UGC CREATOR (@kreatedbykae_)

The intricate white bandana print elevates these deep burgundy tips, created by nail technician Kae. 

Chrome French

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A post shared by Gossip and Gloss (@gossipandgloss)

These iridescent chrome French nails, shared on Instagram by Gossip and Gloss, catch and reflect the light from every angle, making the tips look like the inside of an oyster shell. 

Double French

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A post shared by Aitanas Salon (@aitanassalon)

These monochromatic, double, and inverted French tips by Aitanas Salon are the ultimate way to make shorter nails stand out. 

Cat-Eye Tortie Tips

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A post shared by KAE🤍| DERBY NAIL TECH| UGC CREATOR (@kreatedbykae_)

Cat eye? Tick. Tortoiseshell print? Yep. Double French? Absolutely. This set by Kae nails three trends in one. We especially love the thin cobalt line that hugs the tortie tips. 

Cat-Eye Glitter French

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A post shared by ✨🪩🇲🇽 𝓡𝓪𝓶𝓸𝓷 𝓓𝓾𝓻𝓪𝓷 🇲🇽🪩✨ (@craftedbyaprince)

Ramon Duran, aka @craftedbyaprince on Instagram, proves you can never have too much sparkle with these champagne glitter tips, layered over a silver cat-eye polish. 

Blue Suede French

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A post shared by Your Best Nails (@chummy.nails)

We called the blue suede color combo — a mix of blue and brown to burgundy tones — back in January, and it seems nail artists are still obsessed. These swirly square tips by @chummy.nails on Instagram have a ’00s vibe about them. 

Tiger Print French

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A post shared by Sarah Stasi (@sarahbrezel)

If tortie tips don’t do it for you, try tiger tips on a neutral base, like these spotted on Sarah Stasi. 

Pearl French

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A post shared by Lunula Nails and Beauty (@lunula)

Pearl polish, like this spotted on Lunula Nails and Beauty’s Instagram feed, is fast becoming a favorite among nail artists and clients alike. It requires a dotting tool to create imperfect swirls, which, once cured, resemble the reflection of a pearl. Sally Hansen’s Miracle Gel Pearl Nail Polish in One of a Kind is pretty close if you’d prefer to try this at home. 

Molten Tips

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A post shared by TW Nails Club (@tw_nails_club)

Chrome polish has escaped the confines of Christmas and New Year to become an all-year staple. Try a deep tip like these, created at TW Nails Club. Want to DIY? Try Sally Hansen’s Insta-Dri Chrome in Polar Platinum. 

Cobalt Tips

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A post shared by Jacqueline Kilikita (@jacqueline_kilikita)

Like the blue of the ocean or the quaint buildings of Santorini, we’re spotting cobalt tips everywhere ahead of spring and summer. While this is gel, Essie Nail Polish in Butler Please is a close match. 

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Spring is right around the corner, which means a few things. First, it’s time to run your trusty lightweight trench coat to the dry cleaners. Second, those Easter holiday plans won’t make themselves. Lastly, it could be a good idea to switch up your skincare routine.

After months of drying central heating and near-freezing temperatures, you probably swaddled your parched skin with the most unctuous moisturizer you could find. Perhaps you tried a TikTok trend like ‘skin flooding‘ (layering serums and moisturizers onto damp skin for better hydration), or maybe the cloudy days tricked you into ditching the sunscreen (though it’s a must — even in winter). Regardless, the upcoming warmer and (hopefully) sunnier weather is set to usher in a new set of skincare needs.

“The skin can change in various ways from winter to spring due to shifts in temperature, humidity, and sun exposure,” explains Dr. Hiba Injibar, consultant dermatologist at Dermasurge Clinic. “In colder months, the skin can become dry and flaky due to the harsh winter weather and indoor heating,” she says. “But as spring arrives and the weather becomes warmer, the skin is likely to retain more moisture and feel less dry.”

That’s a positive thing, of course, but Dr. Injibar adds that it’s important to remember that spending more time outside in the warmer weather increases the risk of sun damage. Spring also brings high pollen counts, which can trigger allergies and cause flare-ups of skin irritations like eczema. “Changes in temperature and humidity can also impact acne-prone skin,” says Dr. Injibar, as increased humidity can cause excess oil production, leading to more breakouts.

So what can you do to keep your skin happy? Ahead, Dr. Injibar shares skincare advice and useful hacks that you might find indispensable heading into spring and beyond.

Rethink your current moisturizer

While it may sound obvious to shelve your thick moisturizer in favor of something lighter in texture, Dr. Injibar explains exactly why it’s important to adjust your products to accommodate the changing weather: “As the weather warms up, our skin may produce more oil, which can lead to breakouts if heavy creams are used.” She says that switching to a lighter moisturizer — or even just a serum if your skin is very oily — can help prevent clogged pores. 

If your chosen lightweight moisturizer contains sunscreen, that’s even better. Try Byoma Moisturizing Gel-Cream SPF 30, which absorbs quickly and doesn’t feel greasy, or CeraVe AM Lotion Face Moisturizer with SPF 50. If you’re spending longer periods outside in the sun or working near a window, research shows that a targeted sunscreen product (rather than a moisturizer with added SPF) offers higher protection. R29 rates Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Face Serum SPF 60+, or Tatcha The Milky Sunscreen SPF 50+ PA++++, if you have more to spend. Both can be used on their own or layered over moisturizers and serums.

Vitamin C & SPF are the ultimate duo

“A vitamin C serum can be a great investment for your skincare routine during springtime,” says Dr. Injibar. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that shields the skin against the environment, such as dulling and pore-clogging pollution. “It can also help to brighten and even out the skin tone, boosting collagen production for firmer skin,” says Dr. Injibar. But it doesn’t have to be expensive to work. Try The Inkey List’s 15% Vitamin C and EGF Serum, which also boasts epidermal growth factors — essentially, skin-repairing proteins that promote collagen and elastin in the skin. R29 also recommends Naturium Vitamin C Complex Serum. If your skin is reactive or sensitive, try The Ordinary’s Ascorbyl Glucoside Solution 12%.

Team your chosen vitamin C serum with sunscreen, which deflects UV rays, and you’ve got a pretty airtight spring skincare routine, especially if you’re spending more time outdoors. “After you have cleansed, apply a vitamin C serum around the eyes and face,” says Dr. Injibar, “then apply your SPF30+ broad-spectrum sunscreen on top.” A broad-spectrum sunscreen protects against both UVA rays (responsible for premature aging) and UVB rays (which result in sunburn). “Even on cloudy days, harmful UV rays can still penetrate the skin, leading to sun damage and premature aging,” adds Dr. Injibar, “so it’s important to wear sunscreen every day, regularly applying it when spending time outdoors.”

Choose the right sunscreen

Dr. Injibar suggests looking for sunscreen that complements your skin type. “For instance, if you have oily skin, look for an ‘oil-free’ sunscreen,” she says. Try EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen SPF 46, Oil-Free Sunscreen. “If you have dry skin, look for SPF30+ with added moisturizer,” she continues. We love Paula’s Choice RESIST Youth-Extending Daily Hydrating Fluid SPF 50.

If you have sensitive skin conditions such as eczema, Dr. Injibar explains that they could worsen in spring, thanks to allergies and pollen. “Apply sunscreens formulated with sensitive skin in mind, which contain no fragrance and don’t irritate the skin,” she says. Try La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral Tinted Ultra Light Face Sunscreen Fluid SPF 50.

Look for skincare products containing these ingredients

First up, hyaluronic acid. Not every skin expert is convinced that you need a dedicated hyaluronic acid serum, as the hydrating ingredient is in plenty of moisturizers and sunscreens already. Anyone can benefit from incorporating it into their skincare routine, but if your skin tends to feel tight and uncomfortable after cleansing, this could be a sign that it’s dehydrated — in which case, hyaluronic acid may be especially useful. “Hyaluronic acid is a humectant [draws water into the skin], which can add lightweight hydration to the skin without feeling heavy or greasy,” says Dr. Injibar. “It both attracts and holds onto moisture, rejuvenating dull, dehydrated skin to give it a plump appearance.”

Then there are ceramides. “These are naturally occurring lipids [or fats] in the skin that help to keep it hydrated and healthy,” says Dr. Injibar. Look for a moisturizer or a sunscreen that contains ceramides (like CeraVe AM Facial Moisturising Lotion SPF 50) to help strengthen the skin barrier and prevent moisture loss. Dr. Injibar adds that ceramides are perfect for post-sun exposure, too. As a bonus, the CeraVe lotion also contains niacinamide (often referred to as vitamin B3). “Niacinamide is also a great ingredient for improving the skin barrier, reducing inflammation, and regulating oil production,” says Dr. Injibar.

Lastly, if you have sunburn from spring weather, Dr. Injibar recommends aloe vera, a soothing and cooling ingredient to calm inflamed skin. “While aloe vera cannot cure sunburn, it can help to alleviate the symptoms [such as redness and soreness] and ease the irritation,” she says. “A lightweight moisturizing lotion that contains aloe vera will help provide symptomatic relief.” Try The Ordinary’s Aloe 2% + NAG 2% Solution Serum, for your face and Milk + Honey Body Cream, for your body.

How to stave off spring breakouts

So you’ve got your daytime skincare routine sorted, but the evening is when you might like to step things up a notch, particularly if you find yourself breaking out more when the weather heats up.

“To help control excess oil and occasional breakouts, a lightweight cream containing retinol or glycolic acid can be used at night,” says Dr. Injibar: “Retinol is a derivative of vitamin A, which helps to regulate oil production and unclog pores, while glycolic acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid that exfoliates the skin and helps to reduce the appearance of blemishes.”

Whichever ingredient you use is all down to personal preference, but considering both are potent, it’s best to choose one and stick with it. Layering them could irritate the skin in the form of red, sore, and flaky skin. If you’re a retinol beginner, try The Inkey List’s Starter Retinol Serum. If you’re a seasoned retinol user and want to dial things up, try Medik8 Crystal Retinal. (Retinal works a little faster and more effectively than the usual over-the-counter retinol.)

If your pimple-prone skin doesn’t get on with glycolic acid or retinol, Dr. Injibar recommends a gentle product containing exfoliating salicylic acid, which she says can help manage oily skin and breakouts during warmer weather. Try Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Exfoliating Toner, layered underneath a simple and bland moisturizer. “If you have acne,” continues Dr. Injibar, “you may require a stronger treatment plan.” Dr. Injibar says it’s important to consult with a dermatologist or skincare expert to determine the most appropriate treatment for your skin type and to ensure you are using these ingredients at the right percentages.

Lastly, if you’re using any of the aforementioned ingredients, always apply sunscreen during the day, as they can make skin sensitive to sunlight.

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When I was a child, my home was an adventure in scent — fragrant spices and heady incense that I could explore without limits. I loved the smell of the bakhoor that my mother would light every Thursday night to spiritually cleanse the home, and how it lingered until bedtime. The smell of cardamom that overtook our home whenever my mother baked cookies was more comforting than the cookies themselves, and my father’s habit of spraying oud cologne before heading out to both the masjid and to buy groceries seemed like a natural extension of his confidence. I associated strong, complicated scents with spirituality and with the noise of family. 

I still gravitate towards those powerful scents nowadays, but I’ve noticed how rarely my head turns in recognition when I’m running errands, or how infrequently I recognize a powerful bottle of a Middle Eastern perfume like Omanluxury Nasaj on TikTok or Instagram. Instead, most It Girls and influencers tend to buy a different type of perfume. It’s minimalist and musky and smells soapy or like fresh linen instead of sandalwood, oud, or saffron.

Who decides what “clean” smells like? 

To be clear, “clean” scents are nothing new. According to fragrance writer Jessica Murphy, aka the Perfume Professor, “clean” has been used to describe perfumery for decades: “In the 1980s, the word ‘clean’ usually appeared in connection with affordable citrus splashes that were available at the drugstore,” she tells me. During much of the 20th century, clean fragrance meant universal appeal and mass consumerism.

There have been several updates since then, including the 2003 launch of the fragrance brand Clean Perfume. Founder Randi Shinder has since said she was inspired to create a perfume with “that universal fresh-out-of-the-shower scent”. The fragrance Escentric Molecules Molecule 01 — built around the aromachemical Iso E Super — helped bring the idea of subtle skin scents into the mainstream. At the same time, Juliette Has a Gun Not a Perfume and Le Labo Another 13 also boosted the scent profile. 

In one respect, the boom in popularity for clean-smelling perfume is predictable. After years of heavy, sugary gourmands dominating the shelves, there was bound to be a collective craving for something lighter and fresher. Nowadays, entire Reddit threads and Instagram posts are dedicated to clean fragrances. But by 2026’s standards, marketing around these soft, skin-like scents often leans on notions of purity and cleanliness.  

As Hsuan L. Hsu, a professor at University of California Davis, observes in the 2020 book, The Smell of Risk: Environmental Disparities and Olfactory Aesthetics, the idea of smelling clean is both inherently racialized and a class-marker; to smell clean is to signal proximity to whiteness and wealth. Fragrance influencer Aamna Lone, aka @perfumeconnoisseurz on Instagram, connects today’s clean fragrance fascination to the “clean girl” aesthetic, which has been widely criticized online for being both racist and elitist. In other words, the clean girl — almost always white — doesn’t smell like oud or saffron. She’s inoffensive and crowd-pleasing — made for the mass consumer and never meant to elicit a strong response. So what happens to the women — Arab women like me — who didn’t grow up with this specific brand of femininity?  

Nothing was quiet about the luxuries that raised me. Oud demands to be noticed, and saffron lingers longer than anybody expects. Sparkling gold bangles that clacked with elegant wrist-swishes, the strong earthy smell of Eid henna that lingered like its dark stain, the sugary sweetness of rose water, and smoky incense that brings you close to God —  all these experiences were loud, precious, and everything I associate with womanhood. It was incredibly difficult to become this woman when I was growing up in Kentucky, where whiteness was the norm, and where I was expected to minimize the parts of myself that were “too loud,” too heady, or too fragrant. Over time, I began second-guessing my affinity for the rose and oud fragrances that I associated with my family and myself. 

“Quiet” vs “loud” perfume 

Clean-smelling perfume is seemingly at odds with the fragrant world I grew up in. If clean is limited to a specific perfume profile, what does that suggest about the scents outside of that world, and the cultures that celebrate them? I’m not alone in feeling like the scents of my childhood are often frowned upon. A cohort of third-culture, Gen Z, Arab American women is also reconciling those feelings in real time. When I asked members of student groups at my alma mater, the University of Louisville, Yaara, a 21-year-old neurology student, said that there’s a “kind of honesty” in the traditionally Arab fragrances we both grew up around and now gravitate towards. “There is a carried cultural identity that comes with it. [It] makes me consider why I haven’t worn them more frequently and [instead] allowed myself to succumb to what’s socially acceptable.”

Lone recognizes the heritage inherent in bolder scents: “This idea of bold notes like oud being ‘loud’ or excessive is largely a Western idea,” she says, adding, “In many non-Western cultures — particularly in the Middle East, South Asia, and parts of Africa — strong, long-lasting fragrances are deeply valued and embedded in tradition.” Amina, a 20-year-old pre-dentistry student, feels proud of the way oud makes her stand out. “People often respond to them with a look of curiosity or surprise,” she says. “I’ve never considered the difference something to hide. Instead, I see the value of how these scents express who I am without the need for an explanation.” 

The tension between “quiet” skin-scents and “loud” scents spans centuries — way before TikTok trends and Reddit threads belying racism as ignorance. In one thread, one commenter asks, “Has anyone noticed that the popular Arab perfumes smell very cheap?” It’s common to associate Western perfumery with luxury while looking down on Middle Eastern perfumes as cheap dupes at best — or with blatant xenophobia at worst. Dozens of similar threads exist; some shield their ignorance by focusing on the “cheap” aspect, while others are explicitly anti-Arab.  

Never mind that this is ironic, really. The technology that underpins modern perfumery was significantly advanced in the medieval Middle East centuries ago, when Muslim men, women, and children used fragrance during prayer, on holy days, and as a marker of personal hygiene. Steam distillation — used to extract scent from rose, sandalwood, and jasmine — was perfected by the Persian polymath Ibn Sina, laying the groundwork for modern alcohol-based perfumes. These materials entered Europe via Arab trade routes long before they became central to French perfumery.

Since then, plenty of heritage fragrance houses have kept the tradition alive with distinctive and enduring perfumes. Amouage, founded in 1983 by the Sultanate of Oman, creates luxury blends of spicy, woody, and floral notes that reflect Oman’s rich history as a critical exporter of incense and myrrh, while the Turkish brand Nishane’s Saffron Colognisé is a stand-out given its mix of citrusy grapefruit, cedrat notes, and saffron. And yes, while Vanilla 28 shot Kayali to the top of Sephora’s bestseller list, founder Mona Kattan’s Oudgasm collection most clearly points to the brand’s Middle Eastern roots. I particularly love Chocolate Oud for its gourmand twist. 

Who profits from smelling “clean”? 

This isn’t to say that Western brands ignore these heritage notes entirely, but I’ve often found their interpretations to be watered down, leaning on Middle Eastern imagery — gold filigree or desert landscapes, for example — rather than paying true homage to the cultural history behind them. 

For Sumaya, 24, a pre-law student, some Western interpretations feel more like exploitation than celebration: “I’ve noticed that colonialism and appropriation are increasingly at play when it comes to Arabic perfumes, and even candles,” she notes. “You’ll see major corporations and luxury designers releasing fragrances that smell nearly identical to traditional Arabic scents and profiting from them.” She also takes issue with who is allowed to profit from the advertising, and who the algorithms prop up as the spokespeople: “On TikTok, instead of seeing Arab faces marketing these perfumes, you’ll mostly see Western influencers promoting them. It’s part of the same cycle: capitalism, appropriation, and stereotyping.” 

For most of my life, I’ve been the only Arab woman in the room. I often felt faced with a choice of downplaying my cultural identity to fit in with my peers, ace the job interview, sit more comfortably in the restaurant, or take ownership of my culture. When I set aside Marc Jacobs Daisy or Kate Spade Sparkle in favor of Lush’s Sticky Dates or Salt & Stone’s Black Rose and Oud, I am making a much bigger choice. I’m choosing to set aside smelling clean because smelling like my culture is more important. 

When I think back to my first-grade self, I wish I could address the little girl who was so enamored by the scents of her home. I’d tell her that the smells of spices that made her “different” were never the problem. They’d tie her to a sense of belonging in a world that would pull her in a million directions — and remind her that the world has much more to offer than smelling clean. 

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I’m not too proud to admit that for most of my adulthood, I didn’t own a hairbrush. I was that Brooklyn twenty-something who brushed her brows, but never her hair — and for a while, it served me just fine. However, after moving to Miami from NYC — and eventually to Texas, which is now home — I quickly realized that a brush might serve me well in smoothing my perpetual halo of frizz. 

In the immediate months that followed, I noticed a reduction in tangles, which was to be expected. But as far as long-term hair (and scalp) health benefits were concerned, I was still skeptical. In a world where high-tech gadgets (take LED “helmets,” for example) are everywhere, a hairbrush seems shockingly lo-fi. As a beauty journalist, I had to learn more. 

How can hair brushes improve hair health? 

“A good quality and well-made brush can dramatically [reduce] the amount of hair breakage,” IAT-certified trichologist Sara Hallajian tells Refinery29. “When detangling hair, especially when wet, it can become damaged more easily because the hair is weak and elastic, so the hair stretches and snaps very easily.” In other words, using the right brush — particularly on wet hair — can help minimize breakage, allowing hair to stay long and healthy. For example, a wide-tooth comb is ideal for wet hair, as it glides through easier without pulling. Aside from combs, brushes with short, spaced-out plastic bristles (like a Wet Brush or Tangle Teezer) are also ideal for post-shower detangling. 

Besides minimizing breakage, Kerry E Yates, Dallas-based trichologist and founder of Colour Collective Kerry E Yates, says that regular brushing can help moisturize hair, especially dry ends. “Boar bristles are kind to the scalp and help distribute the oils from the roots down to the shaft and ends, improving condition and enhancing shine,” says Yates, who also recommends the tool for scalp massage. “With light pressure, push the brush against the head and then slowly brush down from roots to ends; repeat this process across the whole head. If you do this daily within two weeks, you will see an improvement in hair shine and condition.” 

My first foray into the wonderful world of hair brushes came in the form of Briogeo’s Vegan Boar Bristle Hair Brush, which Sephora beauty director Melinda Solares recommended to me. (It’s sadly discontinued, but Dae’s Vegan Detangle + Style Brush is similar, with its synthetic boar bristles.) I loved how the smooth paddle felt in my hand, and that it was an animal-friendly alternative to traditional boar bristle brushes. I fell in love with how the brush glided through my thick hair, and how it managed to smooth and soften my strands in a matter of passes. I even bought a travel version of the same brush to never be without one – me! 

What kind of hair brush is right for me? 

“Every brush has a purpose whether it is for wet detangling, dry detangling, scalp care, or blow- drying — and for certain textures, some work better than others,” says Hallajian. “My absolute favorite is by a brand called Manta,” she adds. “It works for all hair textures, on wet or dry hair, and even for blow-dry styling. My clients always tell me how much they love this brush.”  

The Manta brush — named for the aquatic animal it resembles — skips a traditional handle in favor of a round design that fits onto your hand, similar to a scalp massager. The biggest draw, aside from the ergonomic benefits, is the flexible body construction that contours to the scalp and moves with the hair like a glove as opposed to creating tension and breakage. 

After some online research, I snapped up a Wet Brush to add to my arsenal since the idea of a softer bristle brush intrigued me. I generally don’t like to brush my hair when it’s wet since it can stretch and weaken the strand, leading to breakage, but a little gentle post-shower detangling can go a long way since my hair is so thick. Finger-combing works just fine, but I don’t see myself going back anytime soon; a brush made it easier for me to fix my part, distribute hair oil (my current go-to is Shu Uemura’s Essence Absolue), and gently brush out tangles. 

Are expensive brushes necessarily better? 

By this point, I felt like I’d cemented my relationship with hair brushes, so I decided to dip my toe into the high-end category. Mason Pearson brushes have been long heralded as the gold standard due to their impeccable craftsmanship and durable materials — one Redditor who’s had hers for over 20 years put it best: “It’s honestly going to outlast me.”) But IMO, French heritage brand Altesse is giving the brand a run for its money. I was kindly gifted a handmade Repair & Shine brush by the brand and was immediately in love. 

Not only did it arrive housed in a beautiful case, which helps prevent dust accumulating in the bristles, (though don’t forget to shampoo your brushes to keep them clean!), but the soft wood handle felt sturdy and smooth in my hand, unlike others. “Our Repair & Shine Hairbrush serves as a genuine 2-in-1 tool, designed for both scalp and hair care,” Julia Tissot-Gaillard, CEO of Altesse tells me. “It effectively massages the scalp, stimulating blood circulation to improve the supply of nutrients and oxygen to hair follicles.” Not only that, but Tissot-Galliard adds that it efficiently removes excess sebum. “This allows the scalp to ‘breathe’, promoting strong and healthy hair growth.” (While the scalp doesn’t literally breathe, skin that’s free from debris and product buildup is the perfect starting ground for healthy strands and a flake-free scalp.) At $260, it’s easily the fanciest brush I’ve ever owned, but it isn’t ostentatious for luxury’s sake; it genuinely made my hair feel healthier and softer without using any extra products or treatments. 

 
Another brush I’ve found to be worth every penny is Snow Fox’s Gua Sha Hair & Scalp Brush, which retails for $118. When I met with founder Phoebe Song, she  told me how each brush is handcrafted by artisans in Taiwan, and is directly inspired by centuries-old Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practices to help with everything from alleviating tension to postpartum hair loss. (She even told me that you can use the brush as a gua sha massage tool by gliding it from the top of your scalp all the way down the nape of your neck to your shoulders to increase blood flow.) The elongated bristles (shaped as such to closely mimic acupuncture needles) are plated with 24k gold, which isn’t just to look good on your bathroom counter. In TCM practices, gold is often used to ensure that only high-quality, ‘pure’ metals come into contact with your body’s acupressure points and Qi energy. 

Are more expensive brushes necessarily better? 

If you’re not looking to spend triple digits on your hairbrush — not to worry. From vegan boar bristle alternatives to hybrid brushes that use both boar bristle and nylon fibers, you’ve got options. However, there are a few things to keep in mind depending on your hair type: “The hard edges of nylon bristles can cause scalp inflammation and tear the hair,” says Yates. “If you like the idea of nylon bristles, look for bristles with a round end and be careful with how hard you brush your hair.” Some affordable, hairstylist-approved options include Denman’s Medium Style & Shine (which is currently on sale!) as well as ghd’s Paddle Brush — a versatile pick for achieving slick-backs, detangling, and everything in between. 

Final Thoughts 

It’s been almost a year since I embarked on my hair-brushing journey in earnest. And while you don’t need to spend triple-digits to get a good quality brush, keep in mind that cheap brushes may not last as long. Replacing a brush more often isn’t the most sustainable choice for the planet, or your wallet. As for my hair routine? Nothing but smooth sailing ahead. 

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