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Causes of Hair Loss in Women (and men!)

Looking for comprehensive information on hair loss in men and women? Hair loss has become almost commonplace nowadays. And while there are several factors and causes, it’s important to understand your treatment options and the different ways to stop hair loss before it starts to severely impact your life and self-esteem.

Whether you’re suffering from male or female pattern baldness, here are the top causes of hair loss and what you can do to treat thinning or bald spots and start stimulating healthy hair growth.

What Is Hair Loss?

Hair loss affects nearly 80 million men and women due to hereditary hair loss, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Some people only experience the loss on their scalp and face while others see hair loss all throughout their body.

On average, individuals lose about 50 to 100 hairs each day, which isn’t noticeable given that that most people have 100,000 hairs on their head alone. New hair should grow in where the lost hair falls out, but those suffering from alopecia see an adverse effect.

To detect what an abnormal amount of hair loss looks like, collect the hair that falls out during a shower to see if it comes out in large clumps. It is natural to have a small section of hair come out during scrubbing but finding large rounds of hair stuck in the drain after just one shower may mean there is a bigger problem at hand. Talk to a doctor to see if alopecia is a viable diagnosis and discuss possible treatment plans.

Causes of Hair Loss in Men and Women

Many people begin losing their hair from a hereditary issue rather than it randomly occurring. If that is what is happening, it may be due to a new hair care product or medicine that affects the growth of hair or causes hair loss.

Hormones

Otherwise, it may be due to new hormones the body is producing with age. People going through puberty may find that their hair is thinning or falling out because of the changes in their body.

Eventually, those should level out and allow the hair to go back to its normal state. Other hormonal changes from pregnancy, childbirth, discontinuing birth control pills and menopause are all events after puberty that can have a huge effect on the way hair grows.

Medication

Certain medications to treat illnesses are the main cause for hair loss. For those going through chemotherapy to treat cancer, hair will fall out at a rapid rate but continue growing back as the treatment halts.

Health Issues

High blood pressure, arthritis and heart problems all contribute to hair loss and medications to treat each of them can expect the side effects. Ensure that none of them will be individually life-threatening as it is listing the side effects on the medicine bottles at the time of prescription pick-up.

On the other hand, even exposure to harsh chemicals in your shampoo and conditioner can contribute to skin irritation and loss. Therefore men and women must be very careful about their hair care products. Switching to a good shampoo for hair loss and growth can ensure natural ingredients that will protect and nourish your hair follicles to promote regrowth.

Other Reasons

If none of the previous issues are what is causing the hair loss, consider recent life events that may be physically triggering to the body.

Recently experiencing a traumatic car crash may cause the body to be losing its hair as a physical coping mechanism. A death in the family can cause financial and emotional stress as arrangements for funerals and travel begin filling everyday life.

Again, the body can react in many ways to trauma and hair loss is one of them. Consult a professional therapist and doctor to determine if either of these issues are what is causing recent hair loss.

Treatment Options

Although hair loss is affecting a large portion of men and women in America, there are multiple ways to work against it without damaging existing hair. As always, consult a doctor or dermatologist before seeking out any of these treatment options as they will be able to define the most suitable option.

Medication

Over the counter medicines are the typical way treatment options begin for hair loss. Many include an ingredient called minoxidil (Rogaine), which is the main active ingredient to reboot the hair loss.

Many of these products are taken over the counter and applied directly to the scalp to determine if a topical treatment is all that is needed. Be cautious before using these products as they might create hair growth in places other than the desired area.

Minoxidil can also cause irritation to the scalp that provokes scratching and allows hair to weaken over time.

Procedures

If the hair loss is getting to a point that topical treatments are not the answer, going under the knife may be the only option to prevent it from spreading or continuing.

Hair transplant surgery involves moving small plugs of the hair and inserting some into bald sections. This procedure works well for those who have hair loss running in their families and see the affect hitting the top of their head.

Keep in mind that this method requires multiple surgeries as it is a progressive type of hair loss.

A scalp reduction is also an option for those are experiencing extreme hair loss in one area of their head. A surgeon will remove the section of the scalp without hair and replace it with a section that does have hair.

The surgeon also has the option to fold a flap of the scalp over the area that is balding. On the opposite end of the scalp reduction, there is an option to get a tissue expansion that allows the surgeon to insert an expander in the first surgery and take it out during the second.

Over the span of a month, the expander will allow stretch out the part of the scalp with hair and allow the bald spots to decrease.

Although they promise that the hair growth will come back, there is a chance that the hair will grow back patchy.

Some experience bleeding of the scalp, wide scars, and possible infection. Beyond these side effects of the surgery, there is a possibility that the surgery will not be successful for everyone.

Prevention

Ensuring head health is the number one way to prevent hair loss. Do not have hair in a tight bun or braid on a consistent basis as it encourages the hair to pull back and create a receding hairline.

Chemical treatments, excessive heat and blow dryers have been known to cause hair loss. Using a gentle baby shampoo can be a short-term solution to figure out if a current beauty regiment is not working.

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This gorgeous new product is for those who crave that fresh and rosy glow in the mornings: Vichy has just launched the new Neovadiol Rose Platinium Night, an overnight moisturiser that works wonders on your skin while you sleep. Created specifically for mature skin, this new cream will soon become an essential part of your night-time skincare regime. 

Think rejuvenation and glow, Neovadiol Rose Platinium Night is enriched with calcium to boost vitality and skin bounciness. It also works to re-plump and cushion skin with enriching oils, giving it that renewed appearance. It contains natural active ingredients selected specifically for all types of mature skin, like rose flower extract, shea butter, beeswax and plant sugars.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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Neovadiol Rose Platinium Night works immediately, making it a unique must-have for your bed-time routine. It’s clinically tested to prevent the appearance of sleep lines and restore bounciness to your skin, giving you that natural rosy radiance in the morning. Skin feels firmer, smoother and fresher.

The light texture gives you that instant feeling of hydration, essential to recover plumpness. Night after night, the skin strengthening ingredients work to boost vitality and re-plump the skin.  Apply Neovadiol Rose Platinium Night after cleansing to dry skin, avoiding the eye area.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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Formulated with mature skin in mind, Neovadiol Rose Platinium Night is perfect for those going through menopause. A complex process, hormonal changes in menopause can have a direct impact on the skin. Oestrogen and progesterone help to provide elasticity and hydration to skin.

As these hormone levels naturally fall, skin can lose structural fibre and elastin leaving it harder to recover shape, texture and glow. VICHY are pioneers when it comes to skin ageing influenced by hormonal changes. This trusted brand recommend the Neovadiol skincare range for women during and post menopause. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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Neovadiol Rose Platinium Night costs just €34.00 and is available from Irish pharmacies nationwide

To celebrate World Menopause Month, VICHY is also proud to be launching their new Menopause Hub. After 15 years of research, this new platform will share information with women on what some might consider “unspoken topics” with lifestyle and scientific content lead by industry experts.

The Menopause Hub is the perfect tool for women starting from pre-menopause and right through to post-menopause with topics covered by experts in their field including:  Skin & Beauty, Health, Wellness, Body & Nutrition and Intimacy. 

 

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When it comes to balancing our super-sensitive skin, it can be a nightmare trying to figure out what each of our faces need to be perfectly soothed.

Our latest recommendation comes as no surprise to those in the beauty industry who have been raving over the product for months; Payot's Crème N°2 Cachemire.

Everything from stress, hormones and UV rays to air pollution and diet can damage our skin, making it hyper-sensitive as a result.

Drawing on the latest discoveries in the skin biology industry, the Payot Crème N°2 Cachemire strengthens and restores balance to your sensitive skin.

The cachemire cream nourishes your system, calms any sensation of discomfort and reduces the irritations and redness of sensitive and dry skin. What could be better?

As a result of the science, skin is reinforced and protected from external aggressions because of the cutaneous flora action, which helps to maintain the natural balance of the skin.

Payot Crème N°2 Cachemire has a gorgeous, healthy formula containing Boswellia extract, Jasmine Flower extract, Prebiotic and Probiotic.

Its creamy texture envelops your skin straight from application. Day after day, your skin is left feeling soothed and luminous, and the sensation of discomfort from redness is alleviated.

Gain total facial calmness and soft, brightened complexion for just €50- We insist that it's worth the money. 

All Payot products are available in pharmacies and selected stores nationwide, as well as online.

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If you remember Charlotte Tilbury's sell out Instant Eye Palette, then you're in for a 24-hour treat.

Make-up guru Charlotte Tilbury (MBE) is renowned for her eyeshadow palettes, and now she's gifting us a brand new Starry Eyes To Hypnotise Instant Eye Palette for one day only.

The queen of dropping makeup when we're least expecting it has struck gold once again, fresh after the launch of her cult beauty product 44-shade Airbrush Flawless Finish Foundation.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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The palette resembles 2017 and 2018's sell-out Instant Eye Palettes, which had over 40,000 people on the waiting list. The eyeshadow palette market is worth a whopping £38.5 million as of last year.

Starry Eyes To Hypnotise has 12 brand new shades designed to create four stunning looks; Happy Glow, Love Glow, Dream Glow and Seduce Glow. 

Moonlit smoky eyes, bronzed emerald goddess, a golden glow and a rose-blushed finish are all within your grasp for €67 (£60).

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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Just because Tilbury is an absolute genius, the shadow formulas are made with REAL diamond powder and are packed full of pigment.

The blendability is the same as the make-up artist's other, successful palettes. If the award-winning formula isn't broke, then why fix it? 

The palette is part of the Christmas collection, launching on October 3, so you can add it to your basket if you miss out on the palette today.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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The upcoming Christmas collection includes a beauty advent calendar, Magic Star Highlighter and a Swarovski edition of the brilliant Filmstar Bronze & Glow palette. We've truly been treated.

You only have until 9am on September 13 to snatch the product or else you'll be waiting for the official October 3 launch. Head over to Charlotte Tilbury's website for the goodie.

Feature image: Charlotte Tilbury

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If you haven't heard of ARTDECO, you're missing out on one of the most exciting new brands around. 

Their latest collection, Cross the Lines, is inspired by modern graphic art and embodies the motto “be brave, cross borders and dare to do something new”. 

The range is an interplay between combinations of matte and glossy elements, and it will breathe line life into your make-up routine and will get you out of your cosmetic comfort zone.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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1. Long-Lasting Liquid Liner Intense

The paraben-free Long-Lasting Liquid Liner Intense brings you intense an intense formula for quick-drying, smudge-proof and long-lasting colour from morning to night.

The product is so easy to apply thanks to the flexible, fine-tipped felt tip. Struggling to get that perfect line won't be an issue from now on; prepare to be blown away with 14 hours of gorgeous colour.

Available in No.01 “Black Line”, No. 04 “Brown Line”, No. 08 “Green Line” and No.12 “Blue Line” for €20.40

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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2. The Beauty Box Trio Limited Edition

The Beauty Box Trio Limited Edition highlights modern accents with its graphic line design. You'll struggle to find a prettier box to store your eyeshadows in, and it only costs €12.30.

Silky ARTDECO eyeshadows boast high colour brilliance as well as long-lasting wear and can be applied to create a soft, delicate effect.

Available in a range of pearly shades: No. 242 “pearly brown illusion”, No. 265 “pearly emerald”, No. 374 “glam golden city” and No. 90A “pearly purple forest” an intense violet.

Dare to make a statement in matte with “matt brick” No. 531, a rusty brown, and “matt petrol” N0. 593, a shining petrol green. Each eyeshadow comes in at €7.05, so it won't break the bank.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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3. Volume Sensation Mascara

The limited-edition Volume Sensation Mascara creates effective volume and overwhelming length in seconds.

The soft, oversized volume brush emphasises the natural shape of your eyelashes, with pure pigments giving the texture an impressive colour intensity.

Carnauba palm wax nourishes the lashes and keeps them supple and healthy, ideal for holding a product like Volume Sensation. It's priced at just €19.10, and is definitely worth the money.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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4. The Perfect Colour Lipstick 

The Perfect Colour Lipstick impresses with rich colour and optimal opacity, combining the latest technology with effective care for only €14.25.

With its balancing and smoothing 3D structure, the lipstick provides an optical “plumping” effect that makes the lips appear fuller and smoother. Who doesn't want healthy looking lips?

Gorgeous moisturising ingredients nourish the lips with hyaluronic acid, amino acid derivatives, flower extracts of water lily and lunar orchid, corn oil, mango butter, waxes and vitamin E.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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5. High-Performance Lipsticks

The luxurious texture of the High-Performance Lipsticks gives a silky shine and visibly increased volume thanks to ARTDECO's active ingredient; Maxi Lip™.

Small lines and wrinkles are visibly smoothed. Panthenol and vitamin E keep the skin soft and supple, and feels like such a treat.

The fall shades “spicy darling” No. 458 and “kiss of a muse” No. 481 emphasise the lips in discreet earthy tones. Each lipstick costs €18.35, but we dare you to try resisting the product- it's just too good. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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6. Hydra Lip Booster

For full, sensuous lips, this should be your go-to product. 

Blue sea kale, a marine plant extract, stimulates collagen synthesis while Marine Filling Spheres® make the lips appear smoother.

Collageneer®, an active ingredient combination of sunflower oil and lupine seeds extract, supports the skin's elasticity and plumps the lips.

“Translucent sparkling muse” No. 20 is our favourite, shimmering nude shade, nab it for just €13.55.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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7. Blush Couture

The light-textured, limited-edition Blush Couture offers the perfect combination of three complementary colours to match every skin tone.

Mix the three or use individually to create a combination of different looks; you'll never get bored of it.

ARTDECO prides itself on quality, affordable cosmetics. Their Blush Couture mirrors that; it's only €25.60. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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ARTDECO's Cross The Lines collection will be exclusively available in selected Lloyd’s Pharmacies, selected private pharmacies and salons from this month onwards.

How can we rein ourselves in and resist buying the entire range? Answer: We can't. Just give in to your urges, and face the bank balance later.

Feature image: Instagram/@artdeco_sv

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We never knew that our true crime obsession would find its way into our make up bag, but here we are. 

Makeup a Murder is the new cosmetics brand created by self-taught makeup artist Theresa Spencer, and it has us DEAD.

With cinema, literature, podcasts, audiobooks, documentaries and television shows dedicated to solving true crime mysteries, it's hardly surprising that morbid curiosity has been reborn through cosmetics.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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The indie beauty brand has over 31,000 Instagram followers, and is building up a name for itself in the cosmetics industry.

The products reference grim topics such as poison, gore, crime scenes, murder and mass incarceration.

The caption on the brand's website is; "Slay faces with crime scene investigation makeup", so they certainly want to make a spooky statement. The capital letters are the final nail in the coffin…

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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The collection itself is relatively small, with some noteworthy product names. 

The colour-shifting eye shadow comes in shades such as Ricin and Radioactive Waste, packaged in scientific test tubes. 

Luxury Blood Chunk Glitter, Evidence Marker Lashes, Finger Print Setting Powder, the Bloody Blender Sponge (relax, it's just dyed red) and the Criminology Forensic Brush kit make up the collection.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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The Instagram page is positively FULL of incredible make-up looks, with neon colours standing out from the crowd.

There's nothing inherently ghoulish or zombified about the actual looks except for the names and product packaging, so don't worry about resembling a particularly macabre Halloween.

We have to admit, the eyeshadow powders look matte as f*ck. Those colours bring some intense light to the darkness of the branding.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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Makeup a Murder won't break your bloody bank balance either, with prices coming in at between €4.45 and €26 on their website.

The crime-investigation make up is also cruelty-free and vegan, so it's ethical despite it's links to crime.

We highly recommend the brand, even if it does fuel us to watch yet another Netflix murder documentary…

Feature image: Instagram/@makeupamurder

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Behold; your latest scent for the end of summer gloom. Legendary brand Jo Malone introduced their Poppy and Barley Cologne last week and their juicy, floral scent has us hooked.

The cologne is a living, breathing landscape; evoking summer evenings and a soft breeze in the fields of barley and crimson poppies. Who says the end of August has to bring an end to floral perfumes?

The poppy is notoriously hard to bottle, but Jo Malone really outdid themselves by enhancing the fragrance with rose, violet and blackcurrant to capture the perfect scent for their loyal customers.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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Bran and soft barley blanket the smell of poppy and blackcurrant in the most beautiful way. The Jo Malone team recommend layering your scents to tailor for your individual needs.

Borrowed from the succulent cereal fields, where grains and flowers mingle, their poppies spun into a badge of beauty especially for us.

Celine Roux, Head of Global Fragrance, has described the collection in her own way; 

"When I smell Poppy & Barley I am taken to the heart of an English meadow during the harvest. It's the end of every summer when the fields are a sea of gold and I picture lively light poppies moving and dancing in the breeze."

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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This inviting scent is set to be your new all-year-round beauty bag best friend. From colourful poppies to the rich, gold harvest; fragrances don't get much better than this.

With the Poppy & Barley colognes available in two sizes and a 250ml Body & Hand Wash, it will be difficult to resist buying all three products for yourself.

Available as of September 1 from €35, visit Jo Malone's website for more information on the Poppy & Barley collection here

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Why switch to vegan products? How to get the beauty benefits on a budget

Here’s a statistic worth noting: our skin absorbs up to 60% of any product which is applied to it.

If the beauty brands we use are processed, synthetic and jam-packed with toxins, chemicals and preservatives, that’s a lot of possibly harmful material we’re consuming.

Not to mention that many brands are ambiguous at best when discussing their animal testing.

Image: Instagram/@the.vegan.beauty.collective

Vegan beauty products are all made without harm to animals and they also don’t contain any animal ingredients, animal by-products or animal-derived products.

Some common animal ingredients used in skincare beauty include beeswax, lanolin (grease from sheep’s wool – ew), carmine and uric acid from cows.

Some haters suggest that vegan products can’t possibly be as effective, but actually this is merely a myth. Formulas which don’t contain animal ingredients are actually far better for your skin.

Plant-derived ingredients contain more vitamins, minerals and antioxidants which repair and hydrate the skin.

It’s largely unsurprising then that millions of people around the world have switched to vegan beauty.

In the last decade, beauty addicts around the world are raving about new and natural vegan creations. Returning to nature is becoming more and more attractive, except finding the best quality products with all-natural components has a hefty price tag.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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Here’s where vegan brand Nacomi Beauty come in: they’ve just opened their flagship store in Malahide, Co. Dublin and have caused a massive stir.

Their gorgeous body mousses, scrubs, shower jelly and body butter are absolutely flying off the shelves. Why have they propelled to the top of the vegan beauty chain?

Here are a few reasons:

-They import raw materials from all over the world and produce their cosmetics in Poland, surrounded by stunning green scenery.

-ALL their products are totally handmade for each individual, so you know anything you buy has the unique customer in mind. SO personal.

-They don’t just sell produce for women, they now have a mens and baby range. Inclusivity, people. It’s the best.

-They are completely against animal testing

-They source the highest quality product from all over the world and use cold pressed oils, butters, extracts and cosmetic clays in their pure form.

-Their products are all made within a month of being ordered, so it’s fresh to death.

-Their price ranges from… wait for it…€6 to €42.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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YAS BETCH, we can finally afford it to be natural.

-The simplicity of their cosmetic compositions is what make them totally different, they use Unrefined Oils and Vitamin E as natural preservatives.

-They don’t use paraben, harmful dyes and preservatives, SLS/SELS, petroleum derivatives,  or mineral oils.

Nacomi stand by their mission to provide the best quality products at affordable prices:
“We believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to use healthy cosmetics.”

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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That’s right, we don’t have to be rich to be able to live our dreamy natural ingredient lives anymore. Long live Nacomi, we say.

Nacomi is available for purchase from their flagship store in Malahide or online from www.nacomibeauty.com.

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Despite what we see in film, TV and the media; a wheelchair can often be the most beautiful part of a person, an extension of themselves.

When it comes to representation and wheelchair users, what is often presented to us is vastly different from the reality.

We recently chatted to Izzy Keane, one part of the duo that founded Izzy Wheels, to get a grasp of what it means for her to see fellow wheelchair users on magazine covers, in the film industry and in media campaigns.

Dove’s new project #ShowUs aims to empower women by showing faces and bodies that normally aren’t displayed in the media, and Izzy herself has been one of the hand-picked people in the 5,000 photo-strong movement.

Dove Ambassador Izzy Keane at the Irish launch of Project #ShowUs

So, why is this movement so vital? According to new research, a shocking 70 percent of women still don't feel represented in media and advertising.

This affects more than just beauty routines and self-esteem; by homogenising the idea of ‘beauty’, it undermines the notion that being different is what makes us stand out.

From dating to style to career choices, confidence goes a long way. It’s time to get unapologetic about diversity in fashion and media, and demand to see a more truthful and authentic portrayal of real people in our daily lives.

Digital editing, filters and social media have shined an ugly light on how narrow-minded these industries are when it comes to a woman’s appearance.

Dove are helping us to take back control of our differences, and it’s high time they’re highlighted for how perfect they truly are.

From people of various ethnicities to freckles, stretch-marks, acne and wrinkles to older mothers and people with disabilities- beauty doesn’t have a single face or body.

In collaboration with Girlgaze and Getty Images, Dove’s #ShowUs is no ordinary campaign, but showcases how nobody is simply ordinary. #ShowUs is the world’s largest stock photo library of images created by women for use by brands and agencies in marketing and communications.

The phenomenal project is designed to shatter beauty stereotypes by showing women as they are, not as others believe they should be. It aims to drive a more diverse and inclusive visual landscape through media and advertising, and it's set to be a game-changer.

The images are a call-to-action in the beauty industry, it’s no longer good enough to see the same type of body shape, skin tone, and ability on billboards and magazines every day. 

True confidence lies in the individuality and unique essence within every single person.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Izzy Wheels (@izzywheels) on

Izzy Wheels

If you’re not familiar yet with this incredible, important company, they’ll soon be a household name.

Izzy Wheels came into fruition when Izzy’s sister, Ailbhe Keane, designed stunning and creative covers for her younger sibling’s wheelchair as part of her project for NCAD.

The resulting social media post went viral, and soon there was a high demand for more covers to be designed for wheelchair users all over the world.

The joy of bringing colour to other wheelchair users, especially those of a younger age, can be seen in posts on their social accounts, and it couldn't be more beautiful:

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Izzy Wheels (@izzywheels) on

Izzy was born with spina bifida, which meant that Izzy has never been able to walk.

Does this stop her from achieving any of her goals with infectious energy while wearing unquestionably funky clothes? Not a chance.

Her wheelchair and it’s kaleidoscope of brilliant designs reflects her vibrant personality, her ethos of creativity and self-confidence.

Who better to interview about her part in Dove’s new campaign of representation? The young student is acutely aware of the need to show individuality when it comes to representation;

“When you turn on the television, you don’t often see people with disabilities. People’s favourite soap operas, if you see someone with a disability it’s as a result of something really extreme and tragic.

"It’s really important in all types of media to show that it can be a really positive thing, and we shouldn’t see our differences with so much negativity."

Dove Ambassadors Izzy Keane, Tara Stewart and Sene Naoupu at the Irish launch of Project #ShowUs

“The whole purpose of the Dove campaign is to represent women of diversity, of all different shapes, sizes, levels of ability, ethnicities; as many types of women as possible. I ticked that box, because of my disability and because I wear quite unusual clothes and colours,” Izzy says, with a laugh.

Looking through her impressive Instagram, it’s difficult to ignore the splashes of colour and statement prints.

The motto of Izzy Wheels is a breath of fresh air in itself; ‘If you can’t stand up, stand out.’ It’s clear that Izzy intends to bring this principle into all aspects of her everyday life, and is refreshingly aware of the magical potential which unique traits hold.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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Unfortunately, most of those currently in power in the beauty industry appear to disagree with expressing difference as a strength.

With current standards of beauty seemingly impossibly high, what is Izzy’s own perception of beauty?

“I honestly believe that the most beautiful people are so self-confident that their confidence is infectious, and they make everyone around them feel amazing about themselves. The type of person who is able to bring everyone up around them.”

Brands in the industry have a huge responsibility to boost the confidence of consumers, rather than profit from their insecurities. Thankfully, Dove's message is one of hope for people who feel left out.

Dove is an absolutely amazing brand to be undertaking a cause like this, because they’re so huge. Everyone knows about them, they’re very highly regarded and respected. It’s such an important task to undertake and I think they’re able to do it in a meaningful way."

While numerous brands are beginning to expand their reach in terms of diverse models, it’s still a rarity to see anyone with disabilities such as those with hearing loss, blindness or users of wheelchairs in the media.

The modelling world have strict limitations on what they see as beautiful, but many brands are seeking to break those chains.

Some of them may not use authenticity, but Dove’s latest batch of stunning imagery are gorgeously genuine.

They show off the essence of the models themselves, and their personalities jump from the photographs.

Izzy’s bright and sunny nature as well as her taste for the colourful are weapons in her beauty arsenal, but her wheelchair assists her in her quest for confidence.

“I think that we’re living in an era when finally brands like Dove are starting to realise that it’s not acceptable to just show one type of body or one type of person. It’s really important for even their own sales and their own business that their audience is able to relate to the image they put out to the public," Izzy shared.

Writers and activists like Erin Clark are opening up more and more about the difficulties of never seeing your appearance in the media, and slowly progress is being made.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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How does Izzy feel when she sees how limited images in the media are in terms of ableism?

"It can be really annoying when people like myself open up the fashion magazines and I don’t see anyone like myself, but things are going in the right direction.

"There’s always further to go and I can’t wait to see the strides that are made by everyone to be more inclusive, it’s an incredible thing to be part of. It’s really about embracing the thing that makes you different," she continues.

Izzy’s wheelchair is a device used for her creative-expression, why should a wheelchair only be seen as mechanical?

We were interested to hear Izzy’s own personal inspirations, and who she loves to see on the covers of magazines representing her.

“Sinéad Burke is an absolute legend, I absolutely love her. There are so many people making big waves in the area of diversity," she says.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by  (@thesineadburke) on

"The first person I saw who made me feel really included in the media was Joanne O’Riordan. She is incredible, but there’s so many other people that I’d be here listing for ages.

"There are also people with a knowledge about disabilities that some people with disabilities themselves don’t necessarily have," she adds.

“Lucy Jones is a designer in New York, she’s from Wales, and she’s designing clothes for wheelchair users. She has such a knowledge of what needs to be done and she’s so open-minded.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by  (@lucyjonesdesign) on

"There’s such an opportunity there. People shouldn’t be afraid to tap into that, and push the boat a bit.”

The campaign hopes to target those who work in the media as well as those who deserve to be included and see their own faces reflected back to them.

What makes the images extra special is that each woman photographed has chosen the search result tags, meaning they have digitally taken control back over their own beauty.

Izzy's goal is to share that part of her which she wants seen the most:

“My wheelchair! The wheels do so much for me, and I think it’s so important out of a sign of respect to show it off well and make it look nice. It’s an extension of my body and it tells such an interesting story.”

#SeeUs is a direct challenge for the beauty industry to tackle, what does Izzy hope the audience will get from seeing these pictures?

“I think so many different groups will finally feel represented and included. For someone like me can be asked by a brand such as Dove to work with them is incredible, it’s a dream come true."

"Other people will realise that that kind of dream will come true for them too.”

Women worldwide can get involved in #ShowUs: go to Dove's website to share your images.

Check out Izzy Wheels' incredible array of wheelchair cover designs by Ailbhe Keane and other artists here.

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Many of us are now turning to buying smaller versions of our favourite beauty and skincare products, but many brands don't offer the right size for travelling.

With much of the population booking a last-minute trips before the summer draws to an end, the issue of transporting your entire beauty regimen abroad can be a challenge.

One brand has risen above the rest for their travel-sized skincare goodies, and we simply have to rave about them; Eau Thermale Avène.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by  (@avene_uki) on

Just because you're holidaying or exploring different parts of the world doesn't mean you need to ditch your favourite products.

With the dangers of the sun abroad, you actually need your skincare routine even more. 

We've curated a list of your travel must-haves, based on their extensive range of mini-treats:

Eau Thermale Avène’s Thermal Spring Water 100ml: €5

With so many benefits, this product has become a cult favourite. Spritz on the plane to refresh the skin or use it to cool down when you’re poolside.

Thermal Spring spray has soothing, healing and anti-irritant properties, so you won't want to part with it once you're hooked. Thanks to its high tolerance, it is suitable for all skin types.

For your base:

Eau Thermale Avène B-Protect SPF 50+ 30ml: €17

This long-lasting tinted sun cream offers high-factor coverage and antioxidant protection, giving the perfect summer glow so you can ditch the make-up during the day.

Its velvety texture with a non-greasy finish provides an immediate feeling of comfort in the sun and its strong rays.

Always wear SPF, even when you're not in the blistering sunshine. Recent studies have shown that blue light from our screens can now affect your skin.

For cleansing:

Eau Thermale Avène Cleanance Gentle Cleansing Gel 100ml: €11

Suitable for face and body, this multi-tasking product gets to work on blemish-prone skin to help purify skin and regulate oil production, leaving skin feeling fresh and clean.

Its formula, rich in thermal avène water and monolaurin, also prevents irritation and gently combats spots, excess sebum and blackheads. 

Eau Thermale Avène Hydrance Intense Serum 30ml: €26

A day in the sun can leave skin dehydrated and feeling rough and tight, but Avène has the answer once again with an intense moisturising treatment.

Hydrance Intense Serum increases hydration by 45 percent, 4 hours after first application and can be felt for up to 24 hours after stopping applications.

It has been specially formulated with 3 active ingredients which work together to hydrate dull, dry skin. A smooth, radiant complexion is the result.

For your hands:

Eau Thermale Avène Cold Cream Hand Cream 50ml: €9

Perfect for dry or sensitive skin, Avène’s Cold Cream is formulated with nourishing properties of white beeswax to help protect the skin’s barrier against external aggressions, leaving hands soft and supple.

This smooth, non-greasy hand cream offers your hands an immediate feeling of comfort while you're away.

Why not pick up the goodies before you hit the airport? You'll thank us later when they all fit perfectly into your purse and your skin is glowing.

Feature image: Instagram/@avene_uki

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Well, well, well. The time has finally arrived for the return of Ireland's biggest music festival; Electric Picnic.

With some unbelievable headline acts such as The 1975, Billie Eilish, Florence and the Machine, The Strokes, Dermot Kennedy, Christine and the Queens and Freya Ridings, you can expect for your mind to be blown on numerous occasions in front of the Main Stage.

With festival season comes the prospect of camping for three full days in questionable Irish weather (rain is forecasted, are we shocked?), we've decided to put together a list of the best beauty products for the experience.

camping celine dion GIF by E!

You'll need a tent, about a 52 pack of cans, maybe a 70cl of Smirnoff, rain ponchos, a bucket hat and a bum-bag, but what about your makeup bag? And your skincare routine? 

Look no further, we've got it all sorted:

1. Misslyn's Desert Fire collection, from €5.95

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by (@misslyncosmetics) on

The Misslyn 'Desert Fire' collection echoes the rich colours of the desert and creates a unique atmosphere with earthy shades and a mixture of matte and shiny tones for your eyes.

The Desert Night Metallic Eyeshadow Palette is only €12.95, and combines on-trend metallics with matte shades in 12 beautiful colours. The colour crush lipstick is a bold red shade, and costs just €7.95.

Don't forget your True Colour Eyeshadow Base for €5.95 to start off your eye makeup routine. Find the whole 'Desert Fire' collection in Penneys stores now and on Beauty Bay.

2. EcoStardust biodegradable glitter

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by  (@ecostardust) on

Many festivals are now only accepting glitter which is biodegradable, considering the amount of plastic engrained in the substance and how much of it is spread around events like EP.

EcoStardust is just one of the gorgeous brands creating glitter which won't harm the planet as a result of you dancing your heart out to The 1975's The Sound.

Shop the colourful collections on their website, or on ASOS.

3. Fuschia's 'GlamHer' van to save the day

The legends that are Fuschia makeup are bringing their 'GlamHer' van to Electric Picnic to provide festival looks for anyone and everyone. We stan a gang of queens in that van.

The van will be down to greet all of your festival glitter needs at Electric Picnic, with the Fuschia Pro Team are attending in full force to kit you out in full festival makeup, a bath of glitter, body art and hair braiding.

Take the pain of that hungover morning tent rut and book yourself in to let Fuschia give you a 1990s-era iconic makeover.

4. Riemann P20 suncream, between €20 and €30

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by (@p20sunscreenirl) on

As somebody who got absolutely CHARGRILLED to lobster level last year at EP, you don't want to risk getting burned if the sun magically appears. Our poor Irish skin can take it,

P20 products provides seriously reliable suncare for up to 10 hours, so you can go from music act to music act without compromising your performance.

This durability means that, even if you have very sensitive skin, you can enjoy the peace of mind you deserve when spending time in the sun. It offers UVB protection as well as very high UVA protection, thank the Lord.

Grab your set of P20 suncreams at leading pharmacies, Dunnes StoresPenneys and airports nationwide so you won't turn into a meme of the classic sunburnt eejit.  

5. L'Oréal Paris bambi eyes mascara, €14.95

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by (@page4skin) on

L'Oréal Paris are seriously reviving that Twiggy era look, serving complete doe-eyed fierceness like there's no tomorrow.

The short bristles grip the lashes in an exaggerated curl, and the long bristles elongate from root to tip for noticeably long lashes.

Available nationwide for just €14.95, we're sold on that false lash Bambi Eye mascara vibe. You'll be making eyes with everyone in the festival tents, they won't know what hit 'em.

6. KISS iEnvy lashes in Premium, €3.50

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by  (@ienvybykiss) on

If you're gasping for gorgeous, lightweight, natural lashes then look no further than KISS iEnvy at Penneys.

Their Premium lashes fit perfectly with the texture of your own lashes as well as being easily pliable and quick to apply.

Adhesive glue is included in the set, and you'll be amazed at the price; €3.50. Is this real life, or is this just fantasy? We'll take the lot.

7. Nivea's MicellAIR Professional Make Up Remover, from €4.99 to €6.99.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by (@nivea_ire) on

Of course, you can't have a festival makeup routine without planning for makeup removal, now can you? Luckily for us, Nivea's MicellAIR Professional range has us covered. Or, uncovered?

Formulated with a combination of MicellAIR complex, dry oil and black tea extract, it works like a magnet to effectively lift long-lasting and stubborn waterproof makeup from your face and eyes, leaving zero percent greasy residue, so your skin looks clean and healthy.

It's an absolute essential for your festival bag, and don't even THINK about going to sleep with your makeup on. I don't care how gargled you are from the cans, take it off. No excuses.

The MicellAIR Professional Eye Makeup Remover comes in at just €5,49, the MicellAIR remover wipes are €4.99 and the MicellAIR Professional Makeup Remover is €6.99 from pharmacies nationwide.

8. SOSU by Suzanne Jackson x Keilidh 'Urban Bible': 16 Shade Eyeshadow Palette, €24.95

For a festival where you can't exactly bring the contents of your entire room to, it's important that you bring small, compact palettes with a decent range of colours. Enter the SOSU by Suzanne Jackson x Keilidh MUA Urban Bible palette, isn't she a beaut?

Keilidh MUA describes the palette as her two make up personas, Grunge Vs Insta Fun;

“I continuously struggle to find that one palette that I can take anywhere which contains all of my favourite eyeshadow shades. My ultimate goal was to create a palette that would inspire everyone to play with colour and get creative. Release your inner freak.” We will indeed, gal.

At only €24.95, you'd be mad to miss it. We have our eyes on those two purple shades, 'Freedom' and 'Myth' for our own looks.

9. Bellamianta 'Flawless Filter Body Makeup', €22 (£19.99)

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by  (@bellamianta) on

I mean, if it's good enough for Maura Higgins then it's probably good enough for us. We aren't Love Island royalty but we still deserve a glowing golden tan for the biggest music festival in the Irish calendar.

Bellamianta have released their 'Flawless Filter Body Makeup', and it's absolutely brilliant.  Seamlessly smoothing imperfections, pores, stretch marks, blemishes and evening out skin tone, it's a beauty must-have for any day of the year.

The quick-drying, full-coverage formula is available in two shades; light/medium & medium/dark and can be used on both the face and body. Check out the products on their website here.

10. Dr Bronner's lavender hand sanitiser, €5.35

The Health Store, €5.35

With festivals come germs, and lots ot them. We all need some hand sanitiser for those traumatising trips to the portaloos, but investing in an organic one can be great for your skin.

It also almost ensures that none of the irritants and harmful chemicals are present, which is a bonus. Dr Bronner's organic hand sanitiser kills germs using only organic ethyl alcohol, water, organic lavender oil, and organic glycerin.

It's just as effective as conventional hand sanitisers, but uses none of the same chemicals. It's perfect for using on the go at a festival, keep it in your bum bag at all times. Why not sanitise with a healthy conscience.

Available from The Health Store for €5.35.

11. Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless foundation, €40

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by (@ctilburymakeup) on

There's a reason why this product has a months-long waiting list: it's a total goddess product and it gets results. Charlotte's new innovation foundation is the secret to poreless-looking, flawless complexion with a weightless, full-coverage formula and natural matte finish.

The foundation comes in 44 flawless shades after Charlotte used her colour artistry to make a formula to seamlessly balance your unique skin undertones and optimise your overtones. Charlotte Tilbury is the first colour cosmetics brand to use ground-breaking Magic Replexium to reduce the appearance of wrinkles.

it's sweat proof, humidity-proof, waterproof and transfer-resistant, what's not to love? Pack it in your bag and you'll be glowing all day. Grab your shade from Charlotte Tilbury's website here.

12. Glossier 'Balm Dot Com' universal skin salve€12 each or €75 for the full set

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by (@glossier) on

Glossier are a cult beauty brand and once we tried one of their products, we just lost control of ourselves and became overwhelmingly addicted. Just one product can be the gateway into one of the greatest skincare brands in town, and their balm dot com skin salve is a fan favourite.

The hydrating, multipurpose lip balms and skin salves are packed with antioxidants and natural emollients to nourish dry, chafed skin. The dense, waxy texture stays in place to seal in moisture. You can choose the Original, or pick from seven mood-enhancing flavors: 

Birthday (a subtle shimmer), Rose (a barely-there pink tint), Cherry (a sheer red tint), Mint, Coconut, Mango (a translucent coral tint), and Berry (a sheer berry tint) are all available for €12 each or €75 for the full set. Run, Forest, Run. Check out their website for the heaven of festival skincare options.

13. essence 'Lip Saviours' collection, all less than €4

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by essence cosmetics Ireland (@essence_ireland) on

You didn't think we'd forget lip care, did you? Of course not. You can't head to a glamorous festival without at least looking out for some great lipsticks, lip glosses, lip balms and lip liners. Where would a gal get all of them in the one go? essence cosmetics, that's where.

The queens over at essence have created 52 amazing lip products in a 'Lip Saviours' collection, and we can't thank them enough. You may need to sit down after we tell you this, but the entire collection is available for UNDER €4. Yes, you read that right. We're shaken at that bargain.

They've got 18 lipsticks, 14 lip glosses, 13 lip liners and 7 liquid lipsticks available, with countless combinations. Whether you prefer natural or glam, understated or vibrant, nude or bold, glossy or matte, we have your signature lip look sorted. Pronounce that Electric Picnic pout, girls and boys.

No matter what beauty disaster happens at the festival, be it a fall into the mud or a drink spilled all over you, these 12 products will save the day when it comes to your glamorous lewks.

awkward renee zellweger GIF by Bridget Jones

Enjoy EP everyone; Stay stunning xoxo. 

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With air pollution on the rise, it's understandable that beauty lovers are concerned about the environmental impact of pollution on their skin.

Daily stress, a hectic lifestyle and outdoor grit can have a debilitating impact on your skin, and with a climate emergency in our midst, it's time to focus on protecting ourselves from the effects.

French skincare brand Nuxe have released their Crème Prodigieuse Boost line especially for those of us living through busy, urban lifestyles and it's perfect for brightening your face.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by  (@nuxe_uk) on

The Nuxe Crème Prodigieuse Boost range is designed to brighten and ‘boost’ skin, specifically a complexion that is often used to stress, tiredness or pollution.

It aims to combat these negative effects by using their key ingredient, Jasmine flower, to balance the skin and boost its natural mechanisms.

Each of the range's five products are enriched with an antioxidant complex for fresh, fuller-looking, brighter skin on the most stress-inducing of days.

5-in-1 Multi-Perfection Smoothing Primer, €24.90

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by (@nuxe_uk) on

The gorgeous smoothing primer is created to blur out the first signs of ageing, suggesting a 'bare skin' effect by correcting imperfections and adding shine.

Made for all skin types, the newest beauty step has an instant perfecting effect. The non-tinted primer corrects the urban environment and busy lifestyle's markers on your skin.

Devotees of the “no make-up” trend or can be used as a primer as a base for foundation, for a refreshed complexion in minutes.

Energising Priming Concentrate,  €28

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by  (@nuxe_uk) on

Designed for all skin types, the serum-lotion is the perfect starter to replump the skin and offer a moisturising and radiance boost before applying any other products.

The liquid booster care is formulated using natural origin Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamin C and Jasmine flower to work in harmony for energizing the skin.

Multi-Correction Gel-Cream Multi-Correction Silky Cream, €35

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by  (@nuxe_uk) on

The moisturiser enhances the skin's radiance and freshness every day, minimising the first signs of ageing. 

Apply after the Energising Priming Concentrate for optimum skin results. You can get the Multi-Correction Gel-Cream in two textures, for oily combination skin or dry combination skin.

Multi-Correction Eye Balm Gel, €27

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by  (@nuxe_uk) on

This travel-friendly pump tube of youth-boosting formula is a convenient way to reduce the appearance of dark circles and puffiness with continued use.

The balm helps to conceal signs of insufficient nights sleep, which most of us need on Monday mornings or after a big night out so we can't recommend it enough.

Night Recovery Oil Balm,  €38

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by  (@nuxe_uk) on

This overnight miracle worker is a deeply nourishing formula that replenishes the skin with moisture and regenerates the complexion overnight.

Powered by Macadamia Oil, Jasmine Flower and Prickly Pear extract, your skin will look noticeably radiant and plump in the morning. 

The entire collection is available on the NUXE website here, in Arnotts and online at Cloud10 Beauty and LookFantastic. We can't recommend it enough for tired skin.

Feature image: Instagram/@nuke_uk

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