Posts in "Health/Beauty"

Hair Code: Esther

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Health/Beauty, Latest | by — January 11, 2023

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Unlock the hair code of Michigan-based beauty, Esther!

What’s your name + where are you from?

My name is Esther Rehema. My family and I immigrated from Tanzania to the United States in 2007. We moved around from Maryland to Colorado the summer I was going into fourth grade. Now, I live in Michigan. 

Braids, faux locs, natural, extensions, wigs, Bantu knots ~ so many choices! What makes you love the versatility of your hair? 

 Creativity. I always feel so confident every time I change my hair. 

What does your hair mean to you? What does it say about you?

 My hair is another way I can showcase my creativity. When I first cut my hair at the beginning of the year it changed the way that I viewed my hair and myself in such a positive way, plus hair doesn’t define who I am. I felt so confident in my short hair and it brought out my facial features more. I also love how versatile box braids can be. When I did copper box braids I received so many compliments on how the color compliments my complexion, and who doesn’t love receiving compliments?

Do you rock certain styles during certain seasons? Do different hairstyles bring out different sides of your personality?

Throughout different seasons, I find I am able to express my creativity more through protective styles. Every time I unlock a new hairstyle I feel as though I gain a new level of confidence. 

Fill In The Blank: “Good hair days make me feel________”

Good hair days make me feel astonishingly beautiful. 

What’s one product or hair accessory you can’t live without? 

 Definitely a wide toothcomb!

What advice would you give to someone who is nervous to try a new style or look?

Life is too short to limit yourself to one hairstyle! Switch it up and allow yourself to try the multitude of styles available.

Find more of her looks here!

Instagram 

Makeup MIX: Rhanaé Ami

Scroll through the Makeup Mix of Tampa-based beauty-lover, Rhanaé Ami!

What’s your name + city do you live in?

Rhanaé Ami and currently resides in Tampa, Florida.

Beauty is all about being comfortable in your own skin + expressing your vibe. What are 2 beauty trends you’re loving this year?

I’ve been loving the more natural look when it comes to eyebrows, it brings more attention to the actual eye look! Another would be bold lip combos with color on deep-skinned black women! Never tried it myself but a pink glossy lip combo has been my favorite to see so far. 

If you had only 15 seconds to grab 3 beauty products, what would they be?

Colourpop’s Feather Brow Pencil, ANY nude gloss I can put my hands on, and short mink lashes! 

Inspo is everything! Who’s your ultimate beauty icon OR what inspires your makeup looks + why?

My looks are more inspired by THINGS more than people! Going into the store and seeing something as weird as a colorful shampoo bottle or even maybe a pattern on a dress that’s on a mannequin; can inspire me. I love turning actual items into wearable eye looks. I just love transforming in general. I may not be a fan of colorful pigments in my personal life but I love CREATIVITY and love being able to create something from another piece of art! 

How does your makeup reflect your personal style?

I think the funniest thing about my makeup is that it’s always colorful and bold but my personal style is the exact opposite. I only wear black, white, and grey clothing because I’ve always been the “bigger” girl growing up and always felt better in “mute” clothing! My own apartment has no color, it’s strictly grey and white! I use makeup to explore color on my skin tone but I, unfortunately, haven’t been bold enough to wear the colors on fabric just yet but wish me luck! 

What’s one beauty must-have that lives in your bag?

Colourpop’s Pretty Fresh pressed face powder! It’s like a hidden gem in the makeup world. 

What’s your number 1 beauty rule?

The number one rule is that there isn’t any. There isn’t truly a “correct way” to do makeup, always do what’s best for YOU and your skin. Always do what makes you happy! There’s no rule book or list to follow by. 

Follow more of  Rhanaé Ami’s look here:

Instagram

Misogynoir + Beauty Standards

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Health/Beauty, Latest | by — February 16, 2022

Misogynoir:  How It Plays Within the Societal ‘Beauty Standards’ 

Misogyny is the dislike of, contempt for, or ingrained prejudice against women as described by Oxford Languages. Today this has translated into over-sexualization, lack of visibility, and rape culture. However, the general public’s view of misogyny is extremely whitecentered and has oftentimes left zero room for the black misogyny affected individual’s experience.

Misogynoir was coined by activist Moya Bailey and is exactly what it sounds like: misogyny directed towards black girls & women. This can be translated into hypersexualization of young black MAI (misogyny affected individuals), invalidation of feelings or reactions, a tendency to trauma dump on them due to the mammy stereotype, and masculinization amplified for dark skin MAI. Nonetheless, there are still cosmetic effects of white supremacy imposed onto black MAI. The current beauty standard is vehemently eurocentric which can be traced back to colonization and neo-colonization indoctrinated millions into the belief that your proximity to whiteness is a measure of your beauty. For example, lighter skin tones and less prominent features associated with people of color such as noses and lips are often interpreted as allure. Consequently, people on the opposite of the spectrum, with more prominent noses, lips, and darker skin tones face poorer treatment. The inverse of this (better treatment due to looks) has been noted as the term ‘Pretty Privilege’.

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In the book, Belly of the Beast By Da’Shaun L Harrison, the author hypothesizes that Pretty can be used as a sort of capital for treatment. Several black MAI and darkskin MAI in particular have recalled their experiences with being treated as less than specifically by men. This issue has only been exacerbated by the fact that black men are statistically less likely to date black MAI. Why is it such a trend for black men to harp on black MAI? This question has been asked by many and unfortunately this rhetoric can be traced back to the masculinization of black MAI and the hyper-masculinization of darkskin men. Darkskin men have been hyper-masculinized since the dawn of time and the masculine association that’s attached to you while being a darkskin MAI is something that sticks with you for life and affects nearly all of your relationships, romantic or platonic. Because darkskin men are hypermasculinized it’s often hard for them to do anything that’s slightly associated with femininity such as dating someone masculine, expressing their feelings and seeking mental health treatment without having their blackness invalidated.

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Obviously this rhetoric is extremely heteronormative and anti-black regardless it has seeped its way into our society. With this said, darkskin men are more likely to date lightskin MAI over darkskin MAI and will bash darkskin MAI any chance they get. Think of any heterosexual darkskin man you know and they are most likely dating someone who’s lightskin or noticeably lighter than them. This seemingly hatred-like feeling for black MAI is what fuels feelings of undesirability. Darkskin men have the tools and lexicon given to them by their internalized anti-blackness to verbalize their hatred for darkskin MAI as Oh! Stephco expertly states.

The impact of this is detrimental. When one faces as much anti-blackness as a black MAI faces, they expect some form of consoling and solidarity from people who face the same thing. Only when they seek it are they met with loads of invalidation and mocking for their traumatic experiences.

I can say that as a darkskin woman I have struggled a lot with the concept of undesirability specifically when it comes to the black male gaze. I know, with certainty, that my dark skin and my foreign ethnicity have amplified my experience. When I talk to my lightskin counterparts about their experiences with black men, I don’t feel jealousy or hatred, but wonder. Part of my experience with developing and growing has been the process of accepting that the amount of male attention I get is not reflective of my worth; however, it is a lesson that I should not have had to learn so painfully. As I start to come into myself and feel more whole, I pray that my younger selves embrace that cognizance as well.

~ Ayo Sanneh, C.O.R.E Mag teen blogger

Anxiety? 3 Ways To Focus

Anxiety is an extremely common issue that affects many people. Once you’re triggered, it’s hard to get a grasp on your emotions. Academics can play a major role in causing anxiety because of the overwhelming pressure to succeed. It’s not easy to pay attention when classes are early in the morning, long, and sometimes boring. Even then, you still have to find your focus because you have to pass. Here are some tips for staying focused and getting through the semester.

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Catch Some Z’s | Getting an adequate amount of sleep every night is so important to your academic success. When you get a full night’s rest, you’ll find yourself feeling more refreshed in the morning and able to have better focus. Save the late nights for the weekend! 

Remember This | A lot of times we stress ourselves out before the bad things happen. We are triggered at the thought that we might fail, when in reality, you are doing just fine. Remember not to stress until it’s actually needed.

Take A Break | Don’t be afraid to take a break—and lots of them. Over working yourself can make you feel drained and have a negative outcome on your grades. Taking a short break refreshes your mind allowing you to get back to work while being more focused.

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~ Content Editor, Tia Banks

Hair Code: Phathiswa

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Health/Beauty, Latest | by — January 13, 2022

Unlock the hair code to South African’s beauty-lover + digital creator, Phathiswa!

What’s your name + where are you from?
 
My name is Phathiswa Bandla, @khwezibandla on Instagram, and I’m from Gugulethu, Cape Town, South Africa.
 
Braids, faux locs, natural, extensions, wigs, bantu knots ~ so many choices! What makes you love the versatility of your hair?

I love how I can express myself in so many different ways.  I can capture a certain style and aesthetic with braids, then a completely different one with my synthetic wig.

What does your hair mean to you? What does it say about you?
 
My hair is an important part of who I am. It represents my roots, my culture sometimes and it is a very integral part of my entire style or aesthetic. BTW your hair and shoes are the most important part of your outfit- like FR.
 
 

Do your rock certain styles during certain seasons? Do different hairstyles bring out different sides of your personality?

I really love having braids, its an all season type of style. However I do prefer my DIY ponytail in Summer. I recently had it in a week ago and it does make me feel quite different. It’s giving a more grown possibly sexier (lol) version of me.

Fill In The Blank: “Good hair days make me feel______”
 
Like SZA, the ultimate black girl lol also a Goddess!
 
 
What’s one products or hair accessory you can’t live without?
 
My hair gel! Not just to slick down my edges but it helps prepare my hair for all types of styles.  Definitely a product I can’t live without right now.
 
What advice would you give to someone who is nervous to try a new style or look?
 
There’s so many different versions of yourself to explore! Don’t miss out and let fear get the best of you, go blonde! And get those color braids right now!
 
Follow more of Phathiswa here:

Beauty Line-up: Brittany S.

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Health/Beauty, Latest | by — October 7, 2021

 

Scroll through the Beauty Line-Up of Tallahassee-based beauty-lover + digital creator, Brittany!

What’s your name + city you live in?

Hello my name is Brittany Seville and I currently live in Tallahassee, FL for college.

Beauty is all about being comfortable in your own skin + expressing your vibe. What are 2 beauty trends you’re loving this year?

Beauty is all about being comfortable in your own skin + expressing your vibe. two beauty trends I am loving this year are Graphic and over the top eyeliner looks and wearing blush (or any red color eyeshadow) under my eyes.

If you had only 15 seconds to grab 3 beauty products, what would they be?

I would Grab my Brown lip liner, My eyebrow pencil (of course), and my concealer.

Beauty inspo is everything! Who’s your ultimate beauty icon OR what inspires your makeup looks + why?

I can’t say that I have a beauty icon but I definitely pull the majority of my inspo off of pinterest! I am often inspired the most by the looks that have more of a futuristic and colourful vibe.

A mixture of everyday glam and bold colourful eye makeup.

How does your makeup reflect your personal style?

My makeup reflects my style in a way that shows that I take risks but sometimes like to stay safe, just in case.

What’s one beauty must-have that lives in your bag?

I would have to say my “club hopper” NYX LIp Liner. I honestly don’t go anywhere without it. She and I are one.

What’s your number 1 beauty rule?

My number one beauty rule is to do whatever makes you feel like the best version of you. you don’t need to follow trends or stay safe just because you feel like no one else is looking like you. The best part about a beauty routine is that it’s customizable to each individual person. I always say “if I go out and look like everyone else, how are you supposed to spot me out from the rest.”

Follow more of Brittany’s looks here:

Instagram

Natural In The Age Of BBL…

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Health/Beauty, Daily Blog, Latest | by — September 15, 2021

Natural Beauty In The Age Of BBL

Written by Naya Solomon

BBL Problems. BBL Behavior. The BBL Effect. DO any of these phrases ring a bell?

A couple monthss back, a viral video had Twitter in pretty high spirits- the clip showed a line of recent BBL patients looking to board planes as wheelchair passengers. Accompanied by lighthearted tweets from account owner @MuvaofGotti, stating things like, “-it’s 28 wheelchairs coming off this flight from DR and Delta losing their minds-” the internet found it hilarious, ridiculing the seemingly innumerable women lined up like dominoes after subjecting themselves to the same  procedure.

A few others chimed in to express their mild concern, disbelief, and comedic sentiments for the surgeons responsible for making these women’s dreams come true. That following month, another twitter user came forward with a surprising letter from an unnamed Hotel, expressing their inability to accommodate so many post-operative stays.

It seems we as a people have reached an emotional impasse in regards to the BBL(Brazillian Butt Lift) Epidemic that has very clearly taken the country and its impressionable young women by storm. Despite its lighthearted presence online, what goes on beneath the surface is a bit more sinister.

As successful surgical videos circulate online and grace the eyes of young girls, teens, and women trapped in the house and online, we have to wonder what the effect of all this one-sided media will have.

Tiktok has given us “The BBL Effect,” an insanely popular trend started by creator @Antonibumba poking fun at the caricature that is the young woman with a bbl- she’s a socialite that uses apple pay at the deli. She drinks with a straw even though it’s bad for her lip-filler. She needs all her clothes altered. With her lips pursed and hair tossed over her shoulder, she is the moment. See: Kylie Jenner and Stassie Baby types. We see young people of all sorts imitating their favorite bbl-toting baddies.

Antonio’s latest video under the tag very casually addresses the viral tweets, suggests they be safe if planning to undergo the surgery, and almost quickly enough to dismiss it, mentions that the procedure was giving “life threatening vibes,” noting that their aunt died from one only six months prior.

The threat that bbl’s pose on the body is easily overlooked when the culture makes it palatable and popular. Now, no shade to Antonio they’re hilarious and we love and appreciate our black content creators- but this is an excellent example of how something so serious can become trivialized.

“BBL surgery” in the tiktok search bar will show you hundreds of patients documenting their experiences, some as young as nineteen years old- an age at which the body hasn’t finished developing.

So many of us have been online for so long we’ve forgotten how to log off. When faced with other women on social media so frequently, we forget that everything is strategically planned, our bodies are posed, our hair is coiffed, and nothing is ever as it seems. Naturalness isn’t a crime. Our perceptions of what is beautiful and attainable has been skewed by social media stunts and capitalistic endeavors. If lots of people make something popular, society begins to cater to it. As this surgery gained massive popularity, terms like “BBL Fashion” were coined, and it was suddenly easy to see what kinds of stores have always catered to the unattainable looks that wear on our confidence: Fashion Nova, Pretty Little Thing, clothes pulled tightly on mannequins shaped like coke bottles.

It’s painfully easy to fall victim to insecurity when society makes it palatable, but it’s not the only route to take. Perhaps it’s time we looked past our insecurities and at who and what preys on them. There’s nothing wrong with you at all, and there never was.

~ By Naya Solomon

Beauty Line-Up: Amanda

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Health/Beauty, Latest | by — June 22, 2021

 Scroll through the Beauty Line-Up of New Jersey-based beauty content creator, Amanda!

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What’s your name + city you live in?

Amanda Roberts, Camden, NJ
 
Beauty is all about being comfortable in your own skin + expressing your vibe. What are 2 beauty trends you’re loving this year?
 
Glowy makeup, not like the highlighter glow but the good skincare glow. I’m also really into pastel or colorful eyeliner and mascara.

If you had only 15 seconds to grab 3 beauty products, what would they be?

Glossier future dew, Elf wow brow, Milk makeup blur liquid.

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Beauty inspo is everything! Who’s your ultimate beauty icon OR what inspires your makeup looks + why? 

My ultimate beauty icon is Yara Shahidi. I love how fun and youthful her makeup looks are!

How does your makeup reflect your personal style?

I’m very laid back. I love natural beauty so I try to keep my look fresh and simple. My goal typically is to look moisturized. Sometimes when I’m feeling adventurous, I like to add a cute detail like a sparkly lid, freckles, or pastel eyeliner.

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What’s one beauty must-have that lives in your bag?

One beauty must-have in my bag is my sunscreen. It makes a perfect primer & base for makeup, protects my skin, & is the secret to that beautiful glow. I really like the brand Black Girl Sunscreen.

What’s your number 1 beauty rule?

Always remove your makeup before going to bed!

Follow more of Amanda’s beauty + style tips here:
 
 

Healthy Habits? The Struggle?

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Health/Beauty, Latest | by — March 30, 2021

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By Teen Blogger: Claudia Lopez

Healthier Habits, Healthier Life

Being healthier is perceived as a very difficult task sometimes. Well, to tell you the truth leading a healthier life isn’t as hard as it seems. One of the easiest ways to lay the foundation for a more wholesome life is by creating healthy habits. 

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Being healthy is a lifestyle. So your habits just don’t necessarily have to be about “eating healthier” all the time. It could be to start a self-care routine, clean your room every morning, or even simply to read books! 

The best way to create habits is to start off with small goals. For example, if your goal is eating better, you can simply start by eating three meals a day and drinking lots of water! Then as time passes, slightly increase your goal to switch out the not-so-healthy foods with better options. When creating these habits it is crucial that you don’t just jump right into the deep end of things.

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 You also need to make sure to give yourself a break. If you break the cycle of your habits that is okay! Don’t give yourself a hard time for being human. Just make sure you get back up and start again where you left off. This is important because if your habits begin to cause you stress or makes you feel bad, you more than likely will quit altogether.

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Good habits are essential for our day-to-day lives. Once you have gotten used to the feeling of doing them, it will come natural to you!

Teen blogger, Claudia Lopez

Follow more of Claudia HERE

Vibe Check With Jojo!

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Health/Beauty, Latest | by — December 1, 2020

Whew! This year has been a whirlwind that has shifted our mind, body + overall chill vibes when it comes to life.  Maryland-based college student, Jour’dan Haynes, drops her gems of how she stays grounded, protects her peace and elevates her wellness!

Let’s vibe out with Jojo…

This year has given us many surprises we weren’t expecting, whew! What are some of your go-to affirmations or quotes that you say to stay motivated?

The infamous year 2020 will never be forgotten. To get me through it, I remind myself daily of my mission despite the obstacles being thrown at us over the course of this year.

1. Continue saving money

2. Spend time with loved ones

3. Be about your grind! Prioritize your time!

4. Finally, every day at 11:11 I wish for everyone that I care about to be healthy, happy & successful.

What’s your spiritual morning routine? How do you unclutter your thoughts before you start your day? 

The first part of my morning routine begins with preparing a cup of tea, followed by cleansing the exterior of my body. I sage myself from head to toe, allowing the aroma to spread through my bedroom removing all negative energy and thoughts from my space and mind. Next, yoga to awaken and relax my muscles and meditation to center my mind. Then, a big glass of water, and depending on the severity of my stress levels I will take a warm bath.

I find that the best way to declutter my thoughts is making a to-do list. Accessing the most important things I need to get done by the end of the day.

Being a student + budgeting can be stressful! How do you still eat healthy on a budget? How does food affect your mood? 

Maintaining a healthy diet is extremely important when you’re a student. The workload can stress you out! The best way to not grab for the ramen noodle packs and candy bars is to consciously choose healthier alternatives that will still fulfill the craving. Instead of having ice cream, I will make a smoothie! Something that is healthy, equally delicious, and will curb my craving for sweets. Implementing these sorts of habits into my life I have seen a drastic change in my focus and mood.

The budgeting portion really comes naturally once you realize how much you save cooking at home or in your dorm. But treat yourself from time to time! Set up a reward system. For example, every two weeks if you completed your class assignments, studied hard for an exam, or just completed some personal goals, then you can take a day to eat out. This will motivate you so much more because you have something to look forward to that excites you after the hard work is done.

Why are manifestations important? 

It helps you get a clear understanding of your goals, and acts as a reminder for when things start to get hard.

Being a free spirit is a beautiful gift! How do you protect your peace + stay true to who you are?

Being a free spirt is about staying true to your “real” self. Once you understand yourself, you develop values, rules, and expectations to live by. The best way to protect your peace when you unlock such gift is to quickly remove anything that is not serving you for the better.

What type of music elevates your energy? Your go-to songs?

I am an old soul. R&B records from back in the day “hit different” how young adults my age would put it. LOL.  My favorite artist is Charlie Wilson! And Some of my go to songs are: For Real by Amel Larrieux, Off The Wall by Micheal Jackson, Angie Stone: Do what you gotta do, Corinne Bailey Rae: Put Your Records On, Even Closer by Goapele and Stephanie Mills, Love Like This Before. These songs stay, and I repeat, stay on repeat. They never fail to get me out of a funk.

Does moving your body + fitness impact how you feel?

Exercise really is a mood booster. Taking a walk, riding a bike, strength exercises really wake me up in the morning. I would advise at least working out for 30 mins a day. If you have not worked out in a while start light and just monitor to see if your experiencing any changes in your mood.

What words of wisdom would you like to leave with other girls creating who they want to be?

It’s not always going to be easy as Erykah Badu said “evolving involves eliminating!”

Be about your grind and prioritize your time! A personal quote of mine.

And something I heard recently “if one can do it you can too, if none have done it you can be one!” Stay true to yourself, be authentic, and trust your intuition. This way you will build the lifestyle you want and become the person you desire.

Follow more of Jojo’s journey here:

Instagram @theyallknowjojo