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Beauty

Skincare Tips to Keep Your Glow During the Holiday Madness

By 4 Mins Read

The holidays are the most exciting time of the year filled with parties, shopping, and endless to-do lists. But let’s face it, with all the fun comes the stress, and your skin can definitely feel the effects. Whether you’re basking in the heat of Nigeria or braving dry, cold weather, maintaining your glow through it all doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are my top skincare tips to keep your skin fresh and radiant throughout the season, no matter where you are.

1. Never Skip Cleansing
Cleansing is a must, no matter where I am. After long days of celebrations, makeup, and, let’s be honest, holiday indulgence, I always cleanse to remove dirt, sweat, and oils that build up. In hot climates like Nigeria, sweat can clog pores, while colder regions can leave your skin covered in dry particles. Make cleansing a priority both morning and night.

Recommendation:

  • CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser (great for dry or combination skin)
  • La Roche-Posay Effaclar Gel (ideal for oily skin and humid climates)

2. Stay Hydrated: Inside and Out
Hydration is key, especially when dealing with intense heat or dry air. The weather, combined with the festive foods and drinks, can quickly dry out your skin. I make sure to hydrate both inside and out: I drink plenty of water and layer on a hydrating serum or moisturizer.

Recommendation:

  • The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5
  • Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel (perfect for humid or dry conditions)

Pro Tip: Check out our post on building a skincare routine for Nigerian weather.

3. Sunscreen Is a Must
Whether you’re soaking up the Nigerian sun or escaping to cooler climates, sunscreen should be a non-negotiable part of your routine. UV rays can damage your skin in any weather, so I apply sunscreen daily, no matter what.

Recommendation:

  • Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30 (perfect for hot climates)
  • EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46 (ideal for all skin types)

4. Eye Care for Those Late Nights
The holiday season means long nights, and the skin around my eyes shows it! Late nights lead to puffiness and dark circles, but the delicate skin around the eyes needs extra care. An eye cream can help brighten tired eyes and reduce puffiness.

Recommendation:

  • Kiehl’s Creamy Eye Treatment with Avocado
  • The Inkey List Caffeine Eye Cream

5. Exfoliate to Reveal Smooth Skin
Exfoliating helps get rid of dead skin cells, revealing smoother, brighter skin beneath. Whether in hot, humid weather or cold, dry conditions, I always exfoliate once or twice a week to keep my skin glowing.

Recommendation:

  • Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant (great for humid climates)
  • The Ordinary Lactic Acid 5% + HA (perfect for sensitive skin in dry weather)

6. Face Masks for a Quick Skin Boost
During the busy holidays, face masks are a lifesaver. I love using hydrating masks when my skin feels dry or a clay mask when it’s oily or congested. A mask can refresh your skin in just a few minutes.

Recommendation:

  • Laneige Water Sleeping Mask (for hydration, works in both humid and dry climates)
  • Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay (perfect for deep cleansing and oily skin)

7. Eat Skin-Friendly Foods
Holiday treats are amazing, but I make sure to balance them out with skin-loving foods. Whether I’m enjoying fresh fruits in a warm climate or nuts in cooler weather, I always reach for nutrient-rich foods like avocados, berries, and nuts to nourish my skin.

8. Prioritize Sleep
Sleep is the best remedy for tired, stressed skin. I make sure to get at least 7-8 hours each night to let my skin regenerate and stay fresh, no matter where I am.

9. Keep Your Hands Off Your Face
Whether it’s hot and humid or dry and cold, keeping my hands off my face is crucial. Our hands carry oils and bacteria that can clog pores and cause breakouts, so I make sure not to touch my face during the holiday rush.

10. Keep Your Skincare Routine Simple
With everything going on during the holidays, I stick to a simple skincare routine: cleanse, hydrate, and apply sunscreen. Keeping it basic helps my skin stay glowing without stressing me out.

Keep Your Skin Glowing All Season Long
No matter where you are, the holidays should be a time to enjoy and celebrate. With these tips, your skin will remain glowing through all the festivities. Whether you’re in sunny Nigeria or a cooler destination, a little extra TLC will go a long way to keep your skin looking radiant.

What’s your go-to skincare tip during the holiday season? Let me know in the comments!

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Beauty

MUST-HAVE BEAUTY PRODUCTS FOR DAILY USE

By 2 Mins Read

For an ‘IT’ girl, there are beauty essentials that should always be in your purse, ready to be used every day.

These must-haves are crucial for enhancing your look and adding a little razzle-dazzle to your day.

MUST-HAVE BEAUTY ESSENTIALS FOR DAILY USE

Moisturiser is the first and most important item. It hydrates and smoothes your skin, keeping it fresh throughout the day.

Product recommendations:

  • Primer: Prepares your face for makeup, helping it last longer and creating a smooth base.
  • Mascara: Always carry waterproof mascara to enhance your lashes with volume and length.
  • Lipstick/Lip Oil/Lip Gloss: Instantly adds colour to your face. Choose a shade that complements your skin tone.
  • Foundation: Sets the base of your makeup, giving you a flawless and smooth look.
  • Blush: Adds a natural rosy glow to your cheeks for a fresh, healthy appearance.
  • Makeup Remover :Having a makeup remover handy makes it easy to clean up after a long day.
  • Mirror: For quick touch-ups on the go.
  • Hand Cream: Keep your hands moisturised and soft throughout the day.
  • Sanitizer: A daily essential to keep your hands clean and fresh.
  • Perfume :A little spritz keeps you smelling fresh all day.

These beauty essentials help maintain your skin’s radiance and keep you looking your best anytime, anywhere.

Consistency is key for achieving great results!What beauty products do you keep in your purse, and how do you use them? Let us know!

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Hair care

HAIR CARE TIPS FOR YOUR HAIR THIS RAINY SEASON.

By 2 Mins Read

I’m sure a lot of people are wondering why this is crucial. Look around, it’s the rainy season, rainy days almost every day and there’s a lot that can either go wrong or we’ll with your hair. Yes! we’d talk about your hair and tips on how to care for it during this time of the year. Remember it’s your crown! Most people think the rainy season is the best season for hair growth, it’s not an ideal season for hair growth, but it can be. This depends on how good the hair is being taken care of.

IS RAINY SEASON GOOD FOR HAIR?

Not everyone knows this, but there’s enough humidity during the rainy season to make the hair look dull, worn down and increase hair fall.

EFFECTS OF RAINY SEASON ON HAIR

Causes shrinkage Hair breakage Tangling Rough, fuzzy hair See? This isn’t really an ideal season for hair growth. Below are tips to help you get through these challenges

HAIR CARE TIPS FOR HAIR IN RAINY SEASON.

These tips are ideal for all hair types.

Routine oiling of the hair

Keep the hair dry

Use anti-frizz hair products

Use sulphate-free shampoo enriched with essential oils (argan, lavender, teatree oil, etc.)

Mostly importantly, eat healthy (Balanced diet)

Check out the link below to get more insight on tips to keep your hair strong, shiny and healthy!

Check out the link below to get more insight on tips to keep your hair strong, shiny and healthy!

https://www.bebeautiful.in/all-things-hair/everyday/top-monsoon-haircare-tips-for-healthy-hair.

Everyone has a bad hair day one way or the other it always comes up, but there’s always a way to get through it.

Drop a comment. Let us know about that bad or good hair day during the rainy season and what tips you applied to go through it.

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Beauty

SKIN CARE ROUTINE FOR NIGERIAN WEATHER.

By 3 Mins Read

Analyzing the Nigerian weather, there’s a lot of sunshine, so sun protection is a must everyday and all year round. No excuses. SPF 30 or higher is recommended, always apply generously to the body parts exposed to the sun.

Skin care issues such as hyperpigmentation or uneven skin tone is common in Nigeria, mostly because of the hot humid climate. Adopting and sticking to a skin care routine is most appreciable for healthy skin. Skin care products like hydrating toner, moisturizers, face wash, serum should be highly invested in to avoid unwanted and disfiguring face cards.

You may ask what skin care routine I should adopt? I’ll be talking about the easiest and effective skin care routine and what to do to maintain that glow!

SKIN CARE ROUTINE

  • Step 1: Cleanse
  • Step 2: Exfoliate. Use gentle exfoliating scrub to remove dead skin. This should be done 2-3 times a week
  • Step 3: Use a face mask specific to your skin type
  • Step 4: A light toner should be applied
  • Step 5: For hyperpigmentation or uneven skin tone use vitamin C serum or niacinamide
  • Step 6: Eye contour, this reduces eye bags and dark circles, helps tighten the skin around the eyes.
  • Step 7: Moisturizing cream should be applied, this keeps the face hydrated and moisturized.
  • Step 8: Don’t skip the SPF! This is most essential.
  • Step 9: Eat healthy! Eat foods rich in vitamins C & E and avoid excess sugar as this can help increase skin glow and prevent skin issues.
  • Step 10: The sleeping beauty factor! Don’t play with your beauty sleep. 8 hours of sleep is highly recommended for healthy skin!.
  • Step 11: HYDRATE! Always be hydrated. Water is an essential element of an effective skin care routine. From removing impurities from the body to maintaining shiny and glowing skin!.

In addition, embracing natural ingredients Nigeria is blessed with, such as aloe vera, turmeric, cinnamon, essential oils and Shea butter (although Shea butter is not exactly suitable for sensitive skin, it could cause burns when exposed to the sun, ensure to carefully use it).
This enhances your routine, they can be used alone or mixed with other skin care products.

BODY CARE!

  • Use gentle gentle cleanser to remove dirts and impurities
  • Apply a moisturizer after bathing
  • Don’t skip the SPF! Reapply every 2 hours when exposed to sun
  • Drink at least 8 glasses of water daily
  • Don’t forget to eat balanced diet

HERE ARE SOME DO’S AND DON’TS TO MAINTAINING A GOOD SKIN CARE ROUTINE!

Do:

  • Cleanse at least for 1 minute
  • Wash your pillow
  • Wash face with cold water at night and warm water in the morning.

DON’T:

  • Touch your face constantly.
  • Put toothpaste on those spots.
  • Pop those pimples.

With consistency comes good results. With this skin care routine you’re well on your way to permanently removing skin problems and getting healthy and glowing skin!

What routine works for you? I’d love to hear it.

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Blog Posts

My change from relaxed to natural hair: the good, the bad and the beautiful.

By 4 Mins Read

I never knew what I was getting myself into when I decided to shift from having relaxed hair to a natural one. That is because I had been accustomed to having smooth straight hair for many years, but there was something inside of me that just wanted me to go back to where it all started. In this account, filled with twists (pun intended), turns and gallons of deep conditioner; is my journey.

At some point I asked myself why I really chose transitioning sighs.

The decision wasn’t abrupt for me. Firstly, my decision had been motivated by the need for healthier hair as well as an end to chemical burns. Truly speaking, I also wanted to know how my natural texture really looks after many years. There is something about empowering oneself through embracing one’s own natural self and I was ready for that no matter if it meant handling two different textures for sometime.

The Big Chop vs. Long-term Transitioning:

I spent weeks contemplating whether or not I should go for a big chop. On one hand, starting afresh by cutting everything off seemed okay while on the other side; short-ish isn’t attractive enough yet! Therefore, I settled on long term transitioning whereby in a gradual manner, my relaxer ends were trimmed while at the same time allowing my natural hair to grow up slowly. It has tested my patience but it has taught me so much about myself and how to manage my hair.

The Difficulties (and How I Overcame Them):

Let’s be honest, moving is not always a bed of roses. One of the biggest problems I found was dealing with two textures; my roots are thick and curly while the ends have a straight and weak texture. This has been under control due to religious deep conditioning and using a leave-in conditioner that moisturizes both my hair types.

What came next? Detangling knots. Oh my! As for me, detangling by section really made a whole lot of difference when combined with patience plus wide-toothed comb. Also, do you realize what happens whenever I feel tired from detangling? That is when protective styles like twists and braids become most suitable for me.

Products That Make My Life Whole:

If you are in this process, product hunting is your way of life  can’t go wrong with that in your head! What do I worship at the altar of? A sulfate-free shampoo, a deeply nourishing hair conditioner which offers moisture retention as well as providing light oil to lock in moisture. Currently, Dr miracle products are my way to go, Shea butter should be your best friend on this journey. 

Styling My Transitioning Hair:

Styling has all been about accepting what nature gave me. Twist-outs including braid-outs have been sources of joy; they give me the texture that I want but without needing so much heat. At times however, I would blend flexi rods and perm rods because they both helped even out the two different textures on some days when my hair just had to fall into place.

The Emotional Side of Transitioning:

Transitioning is an emotional experience as well as a physical one. I sometimes question my decision on some days when the process seems slow and when I miss how easy it was to have straight hair. Once in a while, however, I see new curls sprouting through my scalp and remember why I am doing this. This is about self-love and acceptance, so all those tough times are worth it.

Progress Update:

It’s been three years since I embarked on this transition journey, and what a transformation it’s been! I’m now fully natural, with all the relaxed ends long gone. The growth is incredibly thick, healthy, and more beautiful than I could have imagined. The Fro gives me a look of a crown, yes a natural Queen, My texture has truly come into its own, showing off curls and coils that I never knew I had. Looking back, I can hardly believe how far my hair has come, and I’m excited to see how it continues to thrive in the years ahead.

The Rewarding Journey:

Transitioning from relaxed hair to natural never comes easily but it remains one of the most gratifying things I’ve ever done in life. It’s a journey that’s teaching patience, self-love and embracing what’s naturally mine. If you’re on the same path just between us be assured that it’s possible to do this transition very well too!

Are you also transitioning? Share your story below! Which challenges have you had to overcome? What products have been most helpful for you? Leave your comment below and always need new advice!

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Beauty

WHY SUNSCREEN MATTERS FOR BLACK SKIN.

By 2 Mins Read

The myth goes “black people don’t need Sunscreen, they can go about their day, have a great time, and swim under the sun without sunscreen because they are already black “. THIS IS WRONG. Yes! People of color do have some built-in Sunscreen protection given the amount of melanin which has little Sun Protection Factor (SPF) , depending on how deep the skin tone is. This isn’t enough to protect the skin against damage from UV rays. Truth is darker skin tones are at a higher risk of melanoma which can be fatal in the long run.

WHY USE SUNSCREEN?

The benefits of sunscreen can’t be overemphasized, because of its benefits;

  • It helps Reduces risk of skin cancer.
  • Help to reduce hyperpigmentation.
  • Some sunscreens moisturizes the skin.
  • Sunscreen contains anti-aging properties (reduces wrinkles)

WHAT TYPE OF SUNSCREEN SHOULD BLACK PEOPLE USE?

It is recommended by Dermatologists for Black People, no matter the skin tone to use sunscreen with an SPF of 30. When outdoors for prolonged periods, it is advised to use SPF of 50 or greater.

WHEN SHOULD BLACK PEOPLE USE SUNSCREEN?

The answer is not far gone. Sunscreen should be used EVERYDAY. No matter weather either raining, sunny, or cloudy days.

Most black people face challenges like lack of inclusivity from brands, getting the wrong sunscreen products for their skin tone, and also getting adverse effects from sunscreen because some ingredients are/weren’t included in the Sunscreen. Most brands are expected to take note of these challenges to do better.

What’s the worst experience you’ve had with a brand’s Sunscreen? And which one do you like and which works for you?Please let us know across our socials.

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Beauty

WHY SUNSCREEN MATTERS FOR BLACK SKIN.

By 2 Mins Read

The myth goes “black people don’t need Sunscreen, they can go about their day, have a great time, and swim under the sun without sunscreen because they are already black”. THIS IS WRONG. Yes! People of color do have some built-in Sunscreen protection given the amount of melanin which has little Sun Protection Factor (SPF) , depending on how deep the skin tone is. This isn’t enough to protect the skin against damage from UV rays. Truth is darker skin tones are at a higher risk of melanoma which can be fatal in the long run.

WHY USE SUNSCREEN?

The benefits of sunscreen can’t be overemphasized, because of its benefits. It’s benefits include

  • Reduces risk of skin cancer.
  • Help to reduce hyperpigmentation.
  • Some sunscreens moisturizes the skin.
  • Sunscreen contains anti-aging properties (reduces wrinkles).

WHAT TYPE OF SUNSCREEN SHOULD BLACK PEOPLE USE?

It is recommended by Dermatologists for Black People, no matter the skin tone to use sunscreen with an SPF of 30. When outdoors for prolonged periods, it is advised to use SPF of 50 or greater.

WHEN SHOULD BLACK PEOPLE USE SUNSCREEN?

The answer is not far gone. Sunscreen should be used EVERYDAY. No matter weather either raining, sunny, or cloudy days. Most black people face challenges like lack of inclusivity from brands, getting the wrong sunscreen products for their skin tone, and also getting adverse effects from sunscreen because some ingredients are/weren’t included in the Sunscreen.

Most brands are expected to take note of these challenges to do better.

What’s the worst experience you’ve had with a brand’s Sunscreen? And which one do you like and which works for you?Please let us know across our socials.

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How to Use Shea Butter on Your Hair
Beauty

How to Use Shea Butter on Your Hair

By 2 Mins Read

Want to get the most out of shea butter?

It is no longer news to every African that shea butter has huge benefits and can be used for hair, skin and nails.

However, do you know the different ways to apply shea butter in your hair to get the most benefit from it?

In this post, we will dive into different ways to apply shea butter to your hair for the most benefit.

1. As a Leave-In Conditioner

Warm a small amount of shea butter between your palms and apply it to damp hair. This locks in moisture and keeps your hair hydrated all day.

2. For Scalp Treatment

Massage shea butter directly into your scalp. Leave it on for about 30 minutes, then wash it out with your favorite shampoo. This nourishes your scalp and promotes healthy hair growth.

3. To Seal in Moisture

Apply your regular conditioner, then seal it with shea butter to keep your hair super moisturized. Great for curly or coily hair.

4. For Hot Oil Treatment

Mix shea butter with other oils like coconut or olive oil. Warm it up and apply it to your hair, cover your oiled hair with a shower cap, and leave it for about an hour before washing. This deep treatment gives your hair a hydration boost.

Read: Benefits of Shea Butter for Your Hair

Fun Facts About Shea Butter

1. Shea butter has been a beauty secret for thousands of years.

2. Besides hair, you can use shea butter on your skin, and lips, and even to heal minor cuts and burns.

3. Shea trees help fight deforestation in West Africa, making shea butter good for the environment.

Shea butter is a natural, affordable way to keep your hair looking and feeling its best.

Whether you’re battling dryness, frizz, or damage, shea butter can help you achieve the hair of your dreams. It’s simple to use, and the results are amazing.

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How to Maintain Healthy Skin During the Rainy Season
Beauty

How to Maintain Healthy Skin During the Rainy Season

By 3 Mins Read

The rainy season is here, and while the showers bring relief from the heat, they can also bring some challenges for our skin.

Let’s explore a few tips to help you keep your skin glowing and healthy through the rainy days.

1. Keep it Clean and Dry

Our skin is more vulnerable to dirt and germs during the rainy season. Use a gentle cleanser to wash away the dirt and oils that build up. Morning and night are the best times for this. Always pat your skin dry with a clean towel after washing; rubbing could irritate your skin.

2. Moisturize Wisely

Rainy weather can make our skin feel sticky, but it still needs moisture to stay healthy. Go for a water-based or gel moisturizer that feels light on your skin. It will hydrate you without making you greasy.

3. Stay Hydrated

Drinking enough water is important for keeping your skin healthy, even when it’s rainy. Go for at least 8 glasses a day to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out.

Fruits and veggies like cucumbers, oranges, and watermelon also help keep your skin fresh.

4. Exfoliate

Exfoliating helps to remove dead skin cells and keeps your skin smooth. Remember to exfoliate once or twice a week with a soft scrub.

Avoid scrubbing too hard, as it can damage your skin. You can also make a simple scrub at home using ingredients like sugar and honey.

Mix them gently and rub them on your face for a minute, then rinse them off.

5. Eat Healthy

Your diet affects your skin a lot. Eat foods that help you glow from the inside out. Foods like berries, nuts, and green tea are rich in antioxidants that help fight skin damage.

Fish like mackerel and salmon are great for your skin because they have omega-3 fatty acids, which keep your skin soft and supple.

6. Avoid Heavy Makeup

The rainy season can make heavy makeup feel uncomfortable. If you wear makeup, keep it light. Go for lightweight products.

7. Protect Your Lips

Your lips can get dry and chapped even during the rainy season. Keep a lip balm with you and apply it regularly to keep your lips soft and moisturized. Licking your lips can dry them out more. Instead, use your lip balm.

8. Use Sunscreen

Even on cloudy days, UV rays can harm your skin. Wearing a cap or umbrella can provide extra protection from the sun and rain.

Use a sunscreen with at least SPF 30. Look for broad-spectrum protection. Reapply every 2-3 hours, especially if you’re spending time outdoors.

9. Stay Stress-Free

Stress can make your skin break out. Keep calm and enjoy the rainy season. Exercise regularly or listen to your favorite music to relax. Try getting at least 7-9 hours of sleep each night to keep your skin fresh and healthy.

Taking care of your skin during the rainy season is vital. With these easy and fun tips, you can keep your skin glowing and beautiful.

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