If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, STYLECASTER may receive an affiliate commission.

Around a year ago, I made the conscious decision to primarily use hair masks instead of regular, run-of-the-mill conditioner. Heftier formulas offer more in the way of reviving split ends, shine and softness on my bleached hair—and let me tell you, the difference this switch has made is astonishing. I’m always trying out new formulas to keep my locks in check, which is why I was wholly surprised to find I had yet to use one of the most revered out there: Coco & Eve’s Like a Virgin Hair Mask. And right now StyleCaster readers can save 15 percent on their order with the exclusive code SC15. 

First off, this product has so many glowing reviews, it took me who knows how long to sift through a majority of them. But as a beauty editor, I’m here to serve you the facts, which are as follows: This 5-in-1 treatment is capable of so much more than your average conditioner, and can transform the most brittle strands with each 10 minute application. It can be utilized a few different ways: Left on for 5 to 10 minutes before rinsing in the shower, or applying to dry hair and leaving on for up to 20 minutes (or even overnight) for added hydration. Whichever avenue you opt for, make sure to use the included tangle tamer brush to evenly distribute the product. 

Coco & Eve

Coco & Eve’s Like a Virgin Hair Mask

“Immediately after the first use I noticed a difference in my hair,” raved one shopper. “And as someone who is very insecure in my hair, I love that I could see instant results. My hair was very soft, had little to no frizz, and it even helped with oiliness. I went four days oil-free, and my hair never looked ‘flat.’ Absolutely LOVE this product and will be buying again.” 

The “multi-award winning” formula only delivers game-changing results. Ingredients like coconut oil, fig extract, shea butter, linseed, argan oil and probiotic extract restore dry, damaged hair to a shiny, glossy state, define natural texture and curls, revive split ends, tame frizz and flyaways, and last but not least, deeply condition tangles. It’s the perfect addition to a year-round routine, since it protects against the effects of environmental aggressors, such as humidity.

The mask has already made waves across the Internet, racking up thousands of eyeballs on dedicated TikTok videos. Plenty of the before-and-after’s showcase just how easily the mask can take dull strands to visibly new heights, especially when it comes to softness and shine. See here and here.

RELATED: Shoppers Call This Lotion a ‘Miracle Worker’ For Erasing Back-of-the-Arm Bumps & Dark Spots

“Hair was silky soft and full of life after one use. Couldn’t believe it,” raved another fan, while a third wrote, “I have very thick, frizz prone wavy/curly hair that I’ve always struggled with. This masque smells divine and also made my hair so soft and defined my waves and curls by diminishing frizz.”

For an even more noticeable hair transformation, use the hair mask alongside the Coco & Eve Miracle Hair Elixir, a multi-tasking hair oil that aids in quenching dry strands and keeping frizz at bay. 

Ready to take your hair care regimen to the next level? Start by making the dedicated switch to hair masks with Coco & Eve’s bestseller. Don’t forget to use code SC15 at checkout to save 15 percent. 

A healthy brain means a healthy you! You already know that your brain is your greatest asset – it helps you get through every day, make good decisions, and keeps you healthy. Having a healthy brain as you age is not something to be taken for granted, nor is it a guarantee.

Aging Is Inevitable, Decline Is Optional

Taking good care of your brain helps you remain an active part of your life, your family, your friends, your community and assures you the life you always wanted as you ‘grew up’. It also helps you avoid what you never wanted to deal with (and would never wish upon anybody): cognitive decline and dementia.

A regularly scheduled hearing exam is critically important to getting an assessment of your cognitive health and in early detection of developing problems. The most important key to preventing cognitive decline and dementia is having good hearing healthcare and following a few simple steps to self-care.

My hope in writing this article is that you will find it useful in making sure that your brain stays sharp and healthy… for life!

How Cognitive Screenings Play a Key Role in Detecting Early Cognitive Decline

A thorough examination of your hearing can reveal many things about you, including potential issues in other parts of your body. For example, a portion of an experienced hearing healthcare provider’s examination is devoted to risk assessment of decline, dementia, falls, and other medical conditions.

In the past decade plus, we have come to learn the intimate connections of hearing and cognitive function, and how decreases in hearing (which affects nearly ALL OF US as we age!) can dramatically increase the risk of other chronic medical conditions, hospitalizations, and even premature death. Ouch.

What You Hear Matters! 

Your brain is always on. Your ears are always on too. This means your brain is constantly stimulated by the vast neural network from your ears. Until it is not. Then what happens?

There is a general belief that activities which stimulate the mind, i.e., hearing, may help to slow cognitive decline. What starts out as subtle cognitive changes that are seemingly associated with aging, go on to affect an older adults’ day-to-day function.

As we age, there are certain expected cognitive declines that we will all experience. However, with increased risk of cognitive decline and dementia that may be the result of hearing loss, it is important to know the differences of ‘normal aging’, MCI (mild cognitive impairment) and dementia.

Early stages of significant cognitive decline (first seen in MCI) include problems with memory, language, thinking, judgement, and visual perception. Fortunately, most people are still ‘with it’ enough to notice these issues and can seek early intervention. Family and close friends may also notice a change. But these changes often aren’t severe enough to significantly interfere with daily life.

MCI along with hearing loss can increase your risk of later developing dementia caused by Alzheimer’s or other neurological conditions. But some people with mild cognitive impairment never get worse, and a few eventually get better. Which is why addressing risk factors early, such as the medical treatment of hearing loss, is critical to preventing dementia.

The Role of the Hearing Healthcare Provider

The detection and managing of cognitive issues, which may occur in tandem with hearing problems, allows your hearing healthcare provider to better address your needs in a timely manner.

I like to advocate for the cognitive screening of patients 50 years of age and older with hearing loss and/or listening difficulties – even in the absence of clear signs or symptoms of cognitive impairment.

It is my belief (and a proven fact!) that enhanced audiologic results, devotion to rehabilitative strategies (i.e., listening strategies and use of assistive listening devices and hearing aids), and improvement in your quality of life will result from a cognitive screening.

The goal of a reputable hearing healthcare provider in screening for cognitive decline is to find out if there is a possibility that you are at risk for dementia, which can ultimately impact your speech understanding and listening ability. Another goal is to detect if you have a mild cognitive impairment (MCI).

Notably, indicators of hearing loss frequently correspond with those of dementia. As hearing loss is known to heighten the risk of dementia, your hearing healthcare provider will always promote routine cognitive screening of adults 50 to 60 years of age and older.

A number of low-cost and easy cognitive screening tests are available. It is well-known that for many patients, a cognitive screening may be seen as an assault on their self-esteem. Hence, we always take into consideration the weariness, fear, and defensiveness of our patients.

Below are my best suggestions for fear of the unknown when thinking about having a cognitive screening done:

Recognize Your Fear

One of the most effective techniques in combating a problem in life is recognizing that you, in fact, have one. Overcoming fear of getting a cognitive screening is no different. Talk about your fears with a friend or family member or write them down so you can better understand them. Understanding them is key to overcoming them.

Find a Hearing Care Specialist You Are Comfortable with

Audiologists and hearing specialists are quite used to being ‘feared’, and good ones will do their best to make you feel comfortable and assure you. Do your research before booking an appointment – and focus on finding a provider who specializes in the medical treatment of hearing loss and cognitive screenings. Be sure to ask friends and family members, and use Google to read reviews.

Determine Gradual Ways to Reduce Your Fears

The right specialist will never force you into treatment that you are not comfortable with and will understand that creating a great experience is paramount to getting you to trust them. As you work with your hearing care provider, see if you can start slowly, and work your way up as needed and when you are ready. 

Bring Someone with You to Appointments

Having someone with you when you visit the hearing healthcare provider is mission critical! Not only does this provide an extra layer of security, but it can also help your family and friends understand your struggles, diagnosis, and treatment plan. The more ears to listen, the better!

The hearing healthcare provider’s first priority will be to address and validate your confusion, alleviate any anxiety, and explain in a user-friendly manner that cognitive and sensory processes are connected.

With a caring smile, he or she will answer your questions. (No question is a stupid one in audiology!) Our primary role is to assess, measure, and address your hearing and cognitive needs. Having a cognitive screening done helps us to better understand how your brain works with sound and make better recommendations for you concerning your listening difficulty.

Now go out and take care of your future!

Did you know that 4 in 10 of cases of Dementia are considered preventable? Are you worried that you, or a loved one, are not hearing and remembering as you used to? Are you aware that hearing healthcare clinicians are trained in cognitive screenings and that treating hearing loss may be the key to preventing mental decline?

Medical disclaimer: This article is not intended to provide medical advice. Please consult with your doctor to get specific medical advice for your situation.

Right up there with winter wonderlands and summer beach days, fall foliage is an attraction of its own, drawing photographers, hikers and nature lovers to local forests, national parks and mountain slopes. If you live in a warmer climate, you might be used to balmy temperatures year round yet still crave the quintessential charm of autumn.

Some of the world’s greenest summer landscapes are even more picturesque once August draws to a close, and you can easily plan an entire itinerary around seeing fall foliage. Whether you drive, hike, or stroll through, the following destinations ring in the season around the world.

New Hampshire, United States

Covering over 30 miles between the towns of Conway and Lincoln, New Hampshire’s Kancamagus Highway is one of the United States’ best known scenic byways. Nestled in the heart of the White Mountains, this designated National Scenic Byway comes with a host of nearby natural attractions to plan a trip around.

Driving on the 34.5 mile route, you’ll be immersed in fall colors on both sides, uninterrupted by restaurants, gas stations or other pit stops. There are plenty of services in both Lincoln and Conway, but the stretch of Route 112 in between is dotted only with trailheads, scenic lookouts and a few campgrounds.

Stop by the gurgling Lower Falls or Rocky Gorge Scenic Area along the way, or take on a hike like the Sawyer River Trail. The quaint Albany Covered Bridge and nearby campground are another worthwhile stop just west of Conway.

Blanketed by fall foliage throughout October, The White Mountain National Forest region has enough vibrant New England towns, stunning summits and wooded hideaways to spark your travel bug and keep you busy.

Vancouver, Canada

For an urban destination boasting incredible fall foliage and equally impressive shopping, dining and nightlife, visit Vancouver anytime from early October until November. The region’s fall colors can enrich any walk through the city, which is full of green oases, coastal parks and tree-lined streets.

Queen Elizabeth Park and the nearby VanDusen Botanical Garden are a great way to spend an entire day looking up at the treetops while sipping a coffee from a local cafe.

After touring this walkable city on foot, plan a day trip to see one of the area’s natural attractions. Located just 15 minutes north of the city center, the Capilano Suspension Bridge is a local favorite. Dating back to the late 19th century, the bridge allows you to walk through a canopy of fall foliage and firs and sightsee from an entirely new perspective. The Capilano Bridge Suspension Park also offers the Cliffwalk experience, which invites visitors to walk along a towering cliff with views of the canyon below.

Any of the provincial parks surrounding Vancouver can be another great option for a day trip, especially if you’re looking to take on the trails.

South Downs National Park, United Kingdom

From coastal cliff sides to dense woodland, the United Kingdom’s South Downs National Park is an unforgettable autumn addition to any London getaway. Located an hour and a half south of the capital, the park can be a day destination or a weeklong excursion with stops in communities like Petworth, Amberley and Chichester along the way.

Part of the South Downs region, Petworth Park is known for its walking trails among ancient trees – this ancient tree map guides you through the park, which can be especially rewarding in the fall.

Connecting Alton and Fareham, the 11-mile Meon Valley Trail is another hike to have on your radar as you explore the South Downs and the historic waterfront city of Portsmouth. To extend your excursion, visit neighboring New Forest National Park to marvel at the classic English landscape in full autumn bloom.

Swiss National Park, Switzerland

For a unique fall foray into Central Europe, plan a trip to Swiss National Park, located near the country’s eastern border. Autumn is one of the best times to visit this pristine pocket of Switzerland, which features alpine landscapes, abundant wildlife and woodlands.

The park’s larches, known as golden larches once they change color in the fall, are one of the park’s highlights. These soaring deciduous trees turn a characteristic shade of gold once summer ends, brightening up the landscape as the weather turns chilly.

Along with golden larch needles, early snows and dipping nighttime temperatures, autumn in the park welcomes the red deer rut, a phenomenon that draws visitors yearly. Also known as breeding season, the rut is marked by the roar of the area’s stags, audible throughout the park.

Visiting Switzerland’s only national park in the autumn gives you a firsthand glimpse of nature’s rhythms. Staying at a nearby resort town like Zernez or St. Moritz puts you within easy reach of the park, as well as scenic surrounding communities.

Seoul, South Korea

Known for eye-catching flora year round, both South Korea and Japan are also popular fall foliage destinations. South Korea’s national parks are especially lush. If you are planning a first trip to the country, you will likely be exploring Seoul, the capital, throughout your trip.

Located just outside of the city, Bukhansan National Park makes a memorable day or weekend trip, especially as fall sets in. Popular with city dwellers and featuring expansive views, the park is home to a number of trails at varying difficulties, meaning anyone can find their footing among the area’s peaks, streams, and wooded slopes.

Reachable via car or public transportation, Bukhanasan rivals the United States’ most popular national parks. From expansive city views to tranquil forested paths, its attractions are a must-see while in Seoul.

Your fall foliage adventure doesn’t have to end once you return to the city; Nakseongdae Park, for example, is an easy morning trip where you can view multi-colored trees while admiring a shrine honoring the legacy of a local general.

The Namsan Outdoor Botanical Garden is another well-known park and garden where you can easily get lost among the serene walkways, falling leaves and general sense of calm tucked into a bustling capital.

I would love to hear your thoughts. Have you travelled on an interesting fall foliage adventure? Where has fall beauty taken you to date? What activities do you prefer in the fall foliage surroundings?

If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, STYLECASTER may receive an affiliate commission.

Around a year ago, I made the conscious decision to primarily use hair masks instead of regular, run-of-the-mill conditioner. Heftier formulas offer more in the way of reviving split ends, shine and softness on my bleached hair—and let me tell you, the difference this switch has made is astonishing. I’m always trying out new formulas to keep my locks in check, which is why I was wholly surprised to find I had yet to use one of the most revered out there: Coco & Eve’s Like a Virgin Hair Mask. And right now StyleCaster readers can save 15 percent on their order with the exclusive code SC15. 

First off, this product has so many glowing reviews, it took me who knows how long to sift through a majority of them. But as a beauty editor, I’m here to serve you the facts, which are as follows: This 5-in-1 treatment is capable of so much more than your average conditioner, and can transform the most brittle strands with each 10 minute application. It can be utilized a few different ways: Left on for 5 to 10 minutes before rinsing in the shower, or applying to dry hair and leaving on for up to 20 minutes (or even overnight) for added hydration. Whichever avenue you opt for, make sure to use the included tangle tamer brush to evenly distribute the product. 

Coco & Eve

Coco & Eve’s Like a Virgin Hair Mask

“Immediately after the first use I noticed a difference in my hair,” raved one shopper. “And as someone who is very insecure in my hair, I love that I could see instant results. My hair was very soft, had little to no frizz, and it even helped with oiliness. I went four days oil-free, and my hair never looked ‘flat.’ Absolutely LOVE this product and will be buying again.” 

The “multi-award winning” formula only delivers game-changing results. Ingredients like coconut oil, fig extract, shea butter, linseed, argan oil and probiotic extract restore dry, damaged hair to a shiny, glossy state, define natural texture and curls, revive split ends, tame frizz and flyaways, and last but not least, deeply condition tangles. It’s the perfect addition to a year-round routine, since it protects against the effects of environmental aggressors, such as humidity.

The mask has already made waves across the Internet, racking up thousands of eyeballs on dedicated TikTok videos. Plenty of the before-and-after’s showcase just how easily the mask can take dull strands to visibly new heights, especially when it comes to softness and shine. See here and here.

RELATED: Shoppers Call This Lotion a ‘Miracle Worker’ For Erasing Back-of-the-Arm Bumps & Dark Spots

“Hair was silky soft and full of life after one use. Couldn’t believe it,” raved another fan, while a third wrote, “I have very thick, frizz prone wavy/curly hair that I’ve always struggled with. This masque smells divine and also made my hair so soft and defined my waves and curls by diminishing frizz.”

For an even more noticeable hair transformation, use the hair mask alongside the Coco & Eve Miracle Hair Elixir, a multi-tasking hair oil that aids in quenching dry strands and keeping frizz at bay. 

Ready to take your hair care regimen to the next level? Start by making the dedicated switch to hair masks with Coco & Eve’s bestseller. Don’t forget to use code SC15 at checkout to save 15 percent. 

If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, STYLECASTER may receive an affiliate commission.

Around a year ago, I made the conscious decision to primarily use hair masks instead of regular, run-of-the-mill conditioner. Heftier formulas offer more in the way of reviving split ends, shine and softness on my bleached hair—and let me tell you, the difference this switch has made is astonishing. I’m always trying out new formulas to keep my locks in check, which is why I was wholly surprised to find I had yet to use one of the most revered out there: Coco & Eve’s Like a Virgin Hair Mask. And right now StyleCaster readers can save 15 percent on their order with the exclusive code SC15. 

First off, this product has so many glowing reviews, it took me who knows how long to sift through a majority of them. But as a beauty editor, I’m here to serve you the facts, which are as follows: This 5-in-1 treatment is capable of so much more than your average conditioner, and can transform the most brittle strands with each 10 minute application. It can be utilized a few different ways: Left on for 5 to 10 minutes before rinsing in the shower, or applying to dry hair and leaving on for up to 20 minutes (or even overnight) for added hydration. Whichever avenue you opt for, make sure to use the included tangle tamer brush to evenly distribute the product. 

Coco & Eve

Coco & Eve’s Like a Virgin Hair Mask

“Immediately after the first use I noticed a difference in my hair,” raved one shopper. “And as someone who is very insecure in my hair, I love that I could see instant results. My hair was very soft, had little to no frizz, and it even helped with oiliness. I went four days oil-free, and my hair never looked ‘flat.’ Absolutely LOVE this product and will be buying again.” 

The “multi-award winning” formula only delivers game-changing results. Ingredients like coconut oil, fig extract, shea butter, linseed, argan oil and probiotic extract restore dry, damaged hair to a shiny, glossy state, define natural texture and curls, revive split ends, tame frizz and flyaways, and last but not least, deeply condition tangles. It’s the perfect addition to a year-round routine, since it protects against the effects of environmental aggressors, such as humidity.

The mask has already made waves across the Internet, racking up thousands of eyeballs on dedicated TikTok videos. Plenty of the before-and-after’s showcase just how easily the mask can take dull strands to visibly new heights, especially when it comes to softness and shine. See here and here.

RELATED: Shoppers Call This Lotion a ‘Miracle Worker’ For Erasing Back-of-the-Arm Bumps & Dark Spots

“Hair was silky soft and full of life after one use. Couldn’t believe it,” raved another fan, while a third wrote, “I have very thick, frizz prone wavy/curly hair that I’ve always struggled with. This masque smells divine and also made my hair so soft and defined my waves and curls by diminishing frizz.”

For an even more noticeable hair transformation, use the hair mask alongside the Coco & Eve Miracle Hair Elixir, a multi-tasking hair oil that aids in quenching dry strands and keeping frizz at bay. 

Ready to take your hair care regimen to the next level? Start by making the dedicated switch to hair masks with Coco & Eve’s bestseller. Don’t forget to use code SC15 at checkout to save 15 percent.