Crystal Kung Minkoff’s Flared Jeans and Button Down Shirt

Real Housewives of Beverly Hills Season 11 Episode 1 Fashion

Well it’s safe to say that I already think Crystal Kung Minkoff is an amazing edition to the Real Housewives of Beverly Hills cast, whether we’re talking about her self-dubbed “super type A” personality or her style. I loved her casual yet put together blue button down shirt and flared jeans from last night’s visit with Lisa Rinna and Kyle Richards. And as someone who is 5’9 herself it’s the perfect look to make an already tall girl’s legs look a mile long.  And thanks to a little help from Crystal, I didn’t have to go that extra mile to find it.

The Realest Housewife,

Big Blonde Hair

Click Here to Shop her Joe’s Molly High Rise Jeans

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Shirt Sold Out at Brooks Brothers // Click Here to Shop Similar

Info via @CrystalKungMinkoff

Originally posted at: Crystal Kung Minkoff’s Flared Jeans and Button Down Shirt

The prices alone are what make The Ordinary one of today’s most successful skincare brands. What was once an underrated darling has grown into a beauty juggernaut, with products sold at all of the biggest retailers (hi, Ulta Beauty!) in addition to its own website. In short: we’ve had no excuse but to try it all. The downside of such an accessible brand at an even more accessible price is deciding what to actually buy. Personally, I’ve found it’s easiest to start by focusing on your biggest concern. That’s what led me to a list of what I think are the best The Ordinary products for dark spots.

Hyperpigmentation is notoriously difficult to banish and if you’re dealing with dark spots on top of that, prepare for the long haul because reversing marks requires next-level patience. Those of us with a little more melanin are all too familiar with this long-winded struggle because we tend to experience hyperpigmentation and dark spots more than most. Personally, I’ve tried it all and only found a few solutions that actually did what they promised (like this spot treatment). However, what makes The Ordinary’s products stand out is the fact that you aren’t limited to one type of formulation.

For that same reason, it’s important to read beyond the price tag because if you get something that doesn’t agree with your skin’s tolerance, you’ll end up doing more harm than good. For instance, there are a slew of direct acids that may irritate sensitive skin types while the brand’s hydrators and oils could turn oily skin into a breeding ground for breakouts. When it comes to treating dark spots or uneven skin tone, the best The Ordinary products are a surprisingly wide spectrum of serums, water-free formulas, and even sunscreen that can be divvied into whatever combo suits you best. Keep reading to see all 11.

Our mission at STYLECASTER is to bring style to the people, and we only feature products we think you’ll love as much as we do. Please note that if you purchase something by clicking on a link within this story, we may receive a small commission of the sale.

The Ordinary.

AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution

Consider this a facial in a bottle. The formula, meant to be applied and worn for just 10 minutes, is a powerhouse blend of alpha-hydroxy acids and beta-hydroxy acids for exfoliation on and beneath the skin’s surface. AHA’s are prime ingredients for not only improving skin’s radiance but diminishing spots with continued use as well. This peel is also formulated with a handful of ingredients meant to ease irritation and replenish moisture after use. They include vitamin B5, hyaluronic acid, and tasmanian pepperberry.

The Ordinary.

Ascorbyl Glucoside Solution 12%

If traditional vitamin C products prove to be volatile and reactive on your face, this gentle vitamin C derivative is a soothing alternative.  The super lightweight serum format is easy to apply and of course, can help to brighten the skin for a more even complexion.

The Ordinary.

Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%

This lightweight cream-gel feels more like a moisturizer, though you should definitely combine with SPF if you’re using during the day. Azelaic acid is an anti-inflammatory ingredient that mainly combats acne, but because it’s sort-of getting ahead of the problem, prevents dark spots from forming, too. Though azelaic acid is generally described as “gentle,” this particular formulation is 10 percent azelaic acid, so patch testing and starting with small amounts are best advised.

The Ordinary.

Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution

Regular exfoliation with proper sun protection will help to reduce the appearance of dark spots, making this solution an ideal treatment. In addition to glycolic acid, the formula also includes aloe, Tasmanian Pepperberry and ginseng root, all of which help reduce the irritation associated with acids.

The Ordinary.

Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA

Arbutin has long been touted for its ability to limit the production of excess melanin without causing as much harm and ironically, scarring, as its equally popular counterpart hydroquinone. This serum combines hyaluronic acid with arbutin to reduce the appearance of dark spots without drying out the skin. Apply a few drops to the skin before your moisturizer and be sure to use sunscreen during the day, too. 

The Ordinary.

Ascorbic Acid 8% + Alpha Arbutin 2%

The Ordinary offers a couple different versions of Vitamin C formulations since the ingredient is notorious for being unstable in water. This version is a water-free solution combined with arbutin to target dark spots and signs of aging. However, because you’re dealing with two incredibly powerful ingredients into one product, it’s important to patch test on your skin in case it’s too strong. If that ends up being the case, a similar version with silicone may be gentler, but just as effective.

The Ordinary.

Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%

Niacinamide is often described as being a must-have ingredient for replenishing moisture to the skin, but it’s also a prime brightener. This blemish formula balances oil production and brightens tone. Just be sure to never combine with another vitamin C product and use in between heavier skincare products, like your serum and moisturizer.

The Ordinary.

Vitamin C Suspension 23% + HA Spheres 2%

If you have resilient skin and want a brighter tone by (almost) any means necessary, this water-free, silicone-free formula is a whopping 23 percent vitamin C. Expect a slight tingling sensation and be sure to patch test first.

The Ordinary.

Lactic Acid 5% + HA 2%

Lactic acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid that stimulates collagen production to leave the skin firmer. Another lesser-known benefit is its ability (with regular use, of course) to diminish spots. Because this is a peel, you may want to dilute with another complimentary product until your skin builds its tolerance.

The Ordinary.

100% Organic Cold Pressed Rose Hip Seed Oil

Rosehip oil contains a ton of vitamin A, which is known for reducing the appearance of scars, dark spots and wrinkles. That’s not all it does, though. It’ll also hydrate your skin, evening out your skin tone. You should put this oil on your skin at night, so it can help strengthen your skin’s barrier overnight.

The Ordinary.

Mandelic Acid 10% + HA

If you have sensitive skin and want to get rid of your dark spots, you should check out this acid. It’s a superficial peel that’ll help even out your skin, without drying it out. It’s more gentle than glycolic acid, so it’s tailor-made for the most easily irritated skin. You should use it once a day, preferably at night.

What is aging? Volumes have been written on the subject, but our understanding of it, while constantly growing, is still hazy.

However, if pressed to summarize the underlying process on the level of the cell, scientists would agree that many aging-related processes seem to share one underlying theme: inflammation.

One of the classic theories of aging, free radical theory, maintains that oxidative stress causes a state of ongoing inflammation, a hallmark of aging. There even is a term that combines the two together – inflammaging.

Okay, you say. Got it. Inflammaging. But what does sleep and melatonin have to do with it? As it turns out, quite a bit.

Of course, none of the following information is medical advice, but hopefully, it will give you something to discuss on your next doctor’s visit.

Let’s Take a Closer Look at Melatonin and Aging

Melatonin has been under the microscope for a long time. A natural hormone, released in the pea-sized pineal gland sitting in the back of our head, melatonin regulates our internal clocks – both daily and annual – and our sleep-wake cycle. It also is released in the retina at the bottom of the eye and the gastrointestinal tract.

Darkness stimulates melatonin production. Exposure to light, particularly that at the blue end of the spectrum, such as fluorescent lights and TV and computer screens, inhibits production. Additionally, the levels of melatonin decrease with advanced age to such a degree that some scientists proposed using it as a marker for aging.

What else affects the production of melatonin? We all have experienced unpleasant effects of at least some of these factors: stress, jet lag, shift work or all-nighters, and are intimately familiar with the mental sluggishness and irritability that ensues. In research, higher levels of melatonin correlate with improved memory acquisition and performance.

Turns Out, Melatonin Has Significantly More Benefits

However, melatonin does more than just regulating our sleep. Several animal studies have demonstrated that it might extend life span. There are several possible mechanisms that could explain that possibility.

Melatonin is one of the most powerful antioxidant substances in our bodies. There is a reason why it is called the “scavenger of free radicals.” Other antioxidants, like vitamins C and E, protect us from most oxidative damage, but they cannot convert some radicals, like superoxide anion radical, into oxygen. Melatonin increases the production of glutathione, which in turn inactivates these bad radicals.

Oxidative stress causes gene mutations in mitochondria, responsible for the production of energy for the cells. Melatonin has a role in the protection and repair of DNA in mitochondria. Maintaining the homeostasis (a state of metabolic balance) in mitochondria is only one of the mechanisms through which melatonin can affect the process of aging.

Can Melatonin Extend the Lifespan?

So, can melatonin extend lifespan? In a word, yes, I think that it can. We now have some evidence in both animal and human studies.

Have you heard about sirtuins? It is a family of fascinating proteins that serve as regulators of metabolic status in general and lifespan in particular. You guessed it. Melatonin stimulates expression of sirtuins.

Melatonin also has a role in maintaining telomeres. Like a plastic tip on shoelace, a telomere protects the end of chromosome. Shortening of telomeres causes cells to age and eventually triggers cell death. Melatonin prevents telomere reduction, increasing the life span of cells.

In human studies, so far the only intervention that has consistently increased longevity was caloric restriction. Does not sound attractive, now does it? However, even here, melatonin can be of service. It just may be that caloric restriction works its miracles through melatonin.

For example, the levels of melatonin in food-restricted rats were twice as high as in their counterparts with free access to food. In several studies, rats that were given melatonin in drinking water had significantly increased life span. Interestingly, the animals displayed more youthful behavior. Melatonin-fed rats not only lived longer – they seemed to have more fun while at it!

How Do We Increase Our Melatonin Levels?

First and foremost, we can increase melatonin levels by not suppressing them artificially. Start dimming the lights about two hours prior to bedtime. Avoid exposure to fluorescent lights, TV and computer screens. Yes, that includes the e-readers too (unless they have a “night shift” option under display and brightness settings). While it is easier said than done, it is perfectly doable. Remember these things called books?

Keep your bedroom as dark as possible. I can tell you from personal experience that blackout curtains make a huge difference. Try blocking all other distracting lights. Turn away bedside alarm clocks so that they don’t face you. I even went as far as duct-taping the little indicator lights on my laptop and power cords.

Some foods that contain melatonin include eggs, fish, cereals, certain mushrooms and sprouted seeds and legumes.

If you decide to take a melatonin supplement, here are a few suggestions. It often works best at low doses. Start with 1 mg 30 minutes to an hour prior to the bedtime. Even if you don’t take melatonin as a sleep supplement, you want to mimic the natural way melatonin is released in our body, with a peak level around two to three am.

If you find yourself waking up in the middle of the night, having a hard time going back to sleep, opt for sustained-release melatonin. And finally, many people will report experiencing more vivid dreams and may remember them better in the morning.

What are you doing to achieve healthy aging? Do you have any tips on how to improve your sleep and melatonin levels? How have you adjusted your bedtime routine for better sleep? Please share in the comments.

Kathy Hilton’s Purple Printed Dress

Real Housewives of Beverly Hills Season 11 Episode 1 Fashion

It seems to be a Richards’ sister right of passage to appear on the Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, but in this case, the oldest sister is doing it after the youner two. And since we love her purple printed maxi dress, we might venture to wonder if in this case, the best has been saved for last. But only time, and the rest of her wardrobe, will tell.

The Realest Housewife,

Big Blonde Hair

Click Here to Shop her Jaline Dress

Originally posted at: Kathy Hilton’s Purple Printed Dress

Garcelle Beauvais’ Black Sheer Polka Dot Blouse

Real Housewives of Beverly Hills Season 11 Episode 1 Fashion

Garcelle Beauvais will soon return to our TVs for RHOBH season 11 and I cannot wait. The first looks for and at the new season certainly did not disappoint. Well except the fact that some of them were sold out. Unfortunately Garcelle’s black sheer polka dot blouse was one of them, which no shocker there it’s sooo cute. Thankfully we have some amazing Style Stealers on deck that deserve a polka dot spot in your closet.

Sincerely Stylish,

Jess

Click Here To See Her L’Agence Hallie Sheer Polka Dot Blouse

Originally posted at: Garcelle Beauvais’ Black Sheer Polka Dot Blouse