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

Do you ever have the types of breakouts that leave you stunned, searching for the answer to why they appeared in the first place? The kind that appear even if you’re eating well, changing your pillow cases, and doing your skincare routine day and night? Personally, I’m guilty of being prone to this surprise day ruining acne on the regular—that is, until I discovered Murad’s Deep Relief Acne Treatment, which is currently on sale during the brand’s Singles Day sale with code SINGLES11.

When browsing on TikTok, I came across a video of someone who claimed their deep, cystic acne cleared up almost instantaneously because they used this product for five days and I just had to order it immediately to keep on hand for my monthly visitors.

The way it works is by combining the powerhouse ingredients BHA that is derived from willow bark and 2 percent salicylic acid, to help with clearing breakouts and exfoliating the skin. This fantastic duo can help with all types of acne you encounter—blackheads, whiteheads, and even painful cystic acne. Those with skin on the oily skin can also utilize this acne treatment for unclogging pores.

Courtesy of Murad.

Murad Deep Relief Acne Treatment

The coolest thing about this acne treatment is the Invisible Film Forming Polymer, an ingredient that acts like a second skin to basically be the bodyguard to your healing face. It holds the actives on your breakout for a little bit longer to ensure that they penetrate deep and do all of the healing the product promises.

And I’m not the only one who agrees, one reviewer said “I must say I’m blown away by the results. I have tried so many products and have spent thousands, but hands down this is it for me. I have cystic stubborn acne due to PCOS and nothing works. My breakouts take weeks to go away and this magical bottle helps them heal overnight!”

RELATED: The Best French Pharmacy Skincare Brands to Shop—& Our Top Picks From Each

For me, knowing there’s relief from the pain that comes with my cystic breakouts is the best thing about this product. Acne hurts—especially the type that lives under the skin with no way of coming to the surface. I started applying this product to the effected area at night, once per day, and woke up the next morning with less-inflamed skin and some pain relief. Within three days, my redness had disappeared and any leftover dark spots began healing.

So what are you waiting for? Hop on over to Murad’s website right now to grab this legendary acne treatment today.

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

There are two types of people. One puts Christmas music on the second November 1 hits and the other complains it’s too early for holiday vibes until well into December. But regardless of where you fall, it’s never too early for beauty discounts. And when it comes to skincare, hair care and makeup, Nordstrom’s Black Friday 2022 beauty deals are some of the best around. The retailer has rolled out up to 50 percent off select beauty goods early so, when you’re picking up a new robe for Mom or some slippers for your BFF, you can also stock up on the products you’ll use all year round.

While Nordstrom has more amazing Black Friday deals than just beauty products on sale, I’m all about the makeup and skincare deals right now. I can’t help it. I’m a beauty girl at heart. Plus, when you tell me there’s Anastasia Beverly Hills gift sets and Kiehl’s skincare for half off, I’m all in. And there’s so much to choose from. Feeling overwhelmed already? I got you started with some favorites, below. Happy shopping!

Nordstrom.

Kiehl’s Rare Earth Deep Pore Cleansing Mask Set

Skin feeling a bit clogged? Clean your pores and banish breakouts with this mask that features three types of clay. The affordable set (with a retail value of $60!) features a full size and travel size of Rare Earth Deep Pore Cleansing Mask.

Nordstrom.

Armani Beauty Giorgio Armani Crema Nera Travel Skin Care Set

This Nordstrom-exclusive set already has a retail value of $136! You get travel sizes of Crema Nera Acqua Pantelleria Serum-Lotion, Crema Nera Reviscentalis Meta Concentrate Hydrating Serum and Crema Nera Supreme Reviving Light Cream, plus a really chic makeup bag.

Nordstrom.

Living Proof Full Hair Care Set

Give fine, flat hair a boost with this volumizing haircare set, which includes full sizes of Full Shampoo, Conditioner and Full Dry Volume & Texture Spray with a retail value of $92.

Nordstrom.

Anastasia Beverly Hills Eye Brag Eyeliner & Mascara Kit

Makeup kits are some of the best holiday deals. Just look at this limited-edition eye set that includes Liquid Liner and Lash Brag Volumizing Mascara.

Nordstrom.

Jack Black Luxury Size Turbo Body Lotion Energizing Gel Moisturizer

If you’ve never felt this lightweight, eucalyptus-infused lotion, you’re in for a treat. And this jumbo size has a retail value of $74.

Nordstrom.

Maison Margiela Replica Lazy Sunday Morning Eau de Toilette Fragrance

I can’t get enough of Replica fragrances and this one is no different. The fresh floral scent is so pretty for all year round.

Nordstrom.

Too Faced Too Femme Ethereal Eyeshadow & Pressed Pigment Palette

This colorful, 14-shade palette will up your holiday beauty looks.

According to a recent GOBankingRates survey, 22% of respondents don’t think they’ll ever be able to retire, and 23% of Americans have nothing saved for their golden years. Do you belong to this 23% category? If so, then ask yourself another question. Do you want to spend the golden years of your life in poverty? Or do you want to lead a comfortable life after retirement?

If you wish to live well after retirement, you need to start saving money from now on, even if you are in your 50s. In this post, we will discuss some options.

4 Tips to Start Saving for Retirement

Set Away 15% of Your Salary Annually

If you haven’t started saving for retirement, you need to get to it right away. A 15% yearly contribution might be sufficient to meet your goals. If you fall behind on your payments, you’ll have to save a lot more cash each year to catch up. As we age, the money we need to save to achieve the same goal doubles every decade. So, if you save for 10 years, you will have saved for 10 years.

Calculate Retirement Income as a Percentage of Pre-Retirement Income

Many financial advisors believe that in retirement, you should be able to spend around 70% to 80% of your pre-retirement income. If you make $60,000 annually today, you should set aside about $42,000 to $48,000 per annum when you retire.

It’s not a universal rule that applies to everyone, and you may need to save far more money. Many people may need income streams that satisfy 80%, 90%, or even 100% of their pre-retirement budget. All hinges on your present and future spending patterns.

Stick to the 4% Rule

You can also use the 4% rule, which indicates that you can take out 4% of your retirement funds in your first year of retirement.

The following formula is used to generate retirement savings based on the 4% rule:

Retirement savings target = Annual income required x 25

So, if you have $1 million in savings, you will take out $40,000 in your first year of retirement, either all at once or over time. You might increase this amount in subsequent retirement years to keep up with cost-of-living increases.

Following this guideline will give you enough cash when you retire. The 4% rule ensures that your money will survive for at least 30 years.

Focus on Saving 10x Your Current Income When You Reach Retirement

As previously noted, many financial advisers and businesses, such as Fidelity, recommend saving about 10 times your annual pay by the time you retire. While this may not be the exact number you’re after, it’s good to keep in mind. You may constantly adjust it to meet your anticipated retirement needs.

The cost of living is increasing with time. So, living expenses are expected to grow even more by the time you retire. If you don’t save more for your anticipated retirement expenses now, you will have to depend on credit cards or payday loans to cover them later. Now, it is up to you. Do you want to get into credit card debt or payday loan debt in the future?

Remember, you can get sued if you don’t have enough money to repay these high-interest debts. You can enroll in a credit card consolidation program or a payday loan consolidation program to repay creditors. Those options are always there. But these debt relief programs will work as long as you can make the required monthly payments. And, you need to have money, even if the amount is small.

How to Determine How Much Money You Need to Save

Here are four key strategies to figure out how much you need to save:

Calculate the Items Your Savings Will Pay for Once You’re Retired

The majority of identical expenditures you incurred before retirement will be covered by your retirement funds.

Here is a handful of them:

• Food
• Shelter
• Clothing
• Transportation
• Utilities
• Healthcare
• Insurance
• Travel
• Gifts

You should have a good idea of your budget if these areas are predicted to stay the same from pre- to post-retirement. You’ll need to find out how much your new way of life will cost if you have big ambitions for your retirement years.

It’ll assist if you keep in mind the debts you’ll have once you retire. Not making payments may impact your budgeting, and your retirement savings may not be sufficient to meet any budget shortfalls.

Remember to account for inflation and how it may influence your finances. Inflation rates in 2022, for example, were over 6% for the first time in decades. While this is much greater than the national average, annual inflation of roughly 2% should be considered.

Calculate How Much You Should Save Each Year

A simple technique for calculating your savings goals is to aim for a multiple of your current annual earnings. While the actual amount depends on your projected retirement spending and the particular assets you choose for your retirement portfolio, these statistics can help you see where you stand.

According to Fidelity Investments, you should save at least 15% of your pre-tax income for retirement. Many other financial advisers recommend saving for retirement at a comparable pace, and research from Boston College’s Center for Retirement Research supports this.

On the other hand, putting away 15% of one’s wages is only sometimes enough to save for retirement. The 15% rule of thumb presupposes several things, one of which is that you begin saving early in life. If you want to retire properly by 65, you should start saving at the age of 25 if you’re going to retire by 62 or at the age of 35 if you want to retire by 65.

To live well in retirement, you’ll need an annual income of 55 percent to 80 percent of your pre-retirement wage. Depending on your spending habits and medical expenditures, you may need more or less. However, a range of 55 to 80 percent is a reasonable approximation for many people.

The 15% rule will only provide sufficient retirement savings to pay some of your costs. For example, Social Security will almost certainly supply you with a percentage of your retirement income. Overall, the 15% estimate should provide you with a steady retirement income that lasts until you’re in your early 90s, at about 45 percent of your pre-retirement wage.

Only some people can start saving at 25 and keep saving 15% of their salary into retirement. If you start later in life or save a bit less, you might have to work longer, remove more expenditures, or invest much more of your income into retirement to make up for the shortage of time and accumulation.

As per Fidelity, there are a few simple retirement savings standards by age that may help you to calculate your retirement saving progress:

Consider Other Sources of Income

For retirement, there are various savings methods and income sources to consider.

A 401(k)

One of the most popular methods to save for retirement is through a 401(k). These employer-sponsored investment vehicles let you save and invest up to $20,500 a year (in 2022), or up to $27,000 if you’re over 50, for your retirement.

Your 401(k) contributions can be invested in various securities, and your employer may match your contributions, doubling the effect of your efforts. Funds can be donated without penalty at 59 ½ or earlier with specified limits.

Individual Retirement Accounts

IRAs are offered by various financial institutions, such as banks, credit unions, and brokerage firms. The two most frequent types of IRAs are traditional IRAs and Roth IRAs.

Each has its own set of tax advantages based on your situation. In 2022, individuals can contribute up to $6,000 per year to an IRA, which they can use to invest in various assets, including real estate. You can donate up to $7,000 annually to an IRA if you’re over 50.

Social Security Benefits

These are given to retirees aged 62 and older (or those who become disabled or blind) who have worked for years enough to earn sufficient credits to qualify. This can provide a steady stream of income during retirement.

A Pension Plan

A pension plan may provide you with a regular income stream. Find out if you qualify, how much cash you’ll receive, and the pension requirements if your firm offers one.

Annuities

These are another type of retirement investment to think about. Insurance companies offer long-term investment vehicles. After purchasing an annuity, you will receive monthly payments throughout your retirement years.

What Is the Most Crucial Step in Creating a Retirement Plan?

As per Wells Fargo’s analysis, covering healthcare costs is one of the most significant issues for most future retirees. Indeed, 49% of Americans consider this one of the most crucial components of retirement preparation.

Prioritizing this financial concern is wise since healthcare will most likely be one of your high ongoing costs as you age. One recent research indicated that a senior couple retiring in 2020 would spend $325,000 on Medicare premiums, prescription medicines, and other out-of-pocket health expenditures.

It’s only possible to pay such a large sum for medical services if you’ve budgeted for it as part of your retirement strategy. Consider these expenses while determining your retirement savings objectives, and either boost the amount you’re investing in current retirement accounts or contribute to an HSA if you’re qualified. Make your contributions automatically each month, and you’ll have the opportunity to grow your nest egg without thinking about it.

Let’s Have a Conversation:

Do you feel it is crucial to save for retirement? If so, why? Have you saved for retirement? How are you preparing for your retirement?

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

Every once in a while you want to get rid of all of your skincare and start over again. Try a new brand, a different product, or get out there and give something else a try. As a beauty writer, the best thing that’s worked for me is trying out a new brand with rave reviews that also has a gift box with minis or a sweet deal that you can take advantage of.

One product I’m loving right now is Gleamin.’s Superfood Daily Moisturizer, so when I heard they have a limited edition Holiday Gift Set Box, I had to try it for myself. The founder of the brand is all about incorporating superfoods into your skincare routine to tamp down inflammation and solve everyday skin woes. Pure, organic ingredients and that’s it.

Whether or not you want to share the holiday glow as a gift or keep these goodies to yourself, it’s the perfect present for this upcoming holiday season.

Courtesy of Gleamin.

Gleamin. Limited Edition Holiday Skincare Box 

This super-sized Holiday Box many great items including: Vitamin C Clay Mask, Supercharged Balance Serum, Superfood Enriched Daily Moisturizer, Super Dots Pimple Patches (36-Pack), Muslin Face Cloth (3-Pack), Facial Cleansing Pad, Black Obsidian Facial Gua Sha, Mango Bath Bomb, and a Hydrating Body Bar.

This special Holiday Gift Box is filled with products and accessories that assist in helping you stay blemish-free and get that glowing skin. By the way, it’s valued at over $199, but it’s priced at just $99. The perfect set to take with you on a holiday getaway or to jumpstart a new beauty routine.

Take advantage of this special offer before it ends and don’t take my word for it—check out the many before and afters on their website. Amazing doesn’t even begin to describe the results!

Many senior women tend to feel a little sad at
this time of year as the holidays approach. They might feel disconnected or far
from their families, either because of location or because loved ones have passed
away.

In addition, in light of growing health
concerns, loss of loved ones, and career shifts, it’s easy to get wrapped up in
thinking negative thoughts, which eventually can take a toll on one’s well-being.

As an alternative, this might be a good time
to focus on all the positives in your life and what you have to be grateful
for.

Why Be Grateful?

Research reported in the Journal of
Happiness Studies has shown that forgiveness and gratitude have a positive effect
on well-being. More specific
studies show that those who are most grateful are also less prone to depression
and tend to be happier overall.

There are a number of things you can do to practice
gratitude. Expressing thanks fosters appreciation of, and perspective on, your
life while positively affecting your physical, psychological, and emotional health.

It also may offer opportunities for growth and
transformation. Counting your blessings is one way to do so, but when it comes
to thanking others, expressions of gratitude can be performed in person or in writing.

Practicing Gratitude by Yourself

While you might not be an avid journal keeper
at present, you might consider this practice, as it can shine a light on the
goodness in your life. Research published in the Journal of Happiness
Studies has shown that gratitude journaling for seniors is one of the most effective ways to express
thanks.

In addition to saying thank you when you’re
face-to-face with others, it’s also a good idea to send thank-you notes to
those who have been kind to you. This is also an excellent way of nurturing ongoing
relationships.

Writing in a gratitude journal offers an opportunity to be mindful and alert about what you’re thankful for and about those things you might otherwise take for granted.

The exercise of gratitude journaling gives you
a chance to slow down and pay attention to all the good in your life. Writing
also helps you organize your thoughts and can facilitate transformation.

The best way to start gratitude journaling is
to find some quiet moments, either in the morning, or in the evening before you
retire to bed. As with most types of journaling, there are no set rules. But
here are some ideas on lists you might wish to make in your journal:

• People you’re
  grateful for;
• Events or
  experiences you’re grateful for;
• Material things you’re
  grateful for – items you wouldn’t want to give up;
• Books that greatly
  influenced your life;
• Trips or journeys
  you took that impacted you in a positive way;
• Skills and
  talents that you possess that you’re thankful for.

Practicing Gratitude with Others

If you’re having a Thanksgiving dinner,
whether with your family or with friends or colleagues, perhaps suggest that
everyone shut off their cell phones as a way of showing respect and
appreciation for all those who are present.

If you have out-of-town guests, ask them if
they wish to join you in your workout routine, which might include going to the
gym, hiking, swimming, playing tennis, and so on, as a way to express gratitude
for your health and well-being.

But most importantly, no matter what you’re doing
or whom you’re with, try to maintain and cultivate an attitude of gratitude – not just on Thanksgiving, but all year long.

Let’s Have a Conversation:

If you keep a gratitude journal, what would
you write for today’s entry? How does practicing gratitude help you? Have you
noticed any patterns in your expressions of gratitude? Please share in the
comments below.

*Note: For those who love to read poetry, you
can look up “Messenger,” a wonderful gratitude poem by Mary Oliver from
her first collection of poetry, Thirst.