Life Style

Whether you deal with the occasional zit or have acne-prone skin, having a stash of pimple patches is never a bad idea. In fact, acne patches are pretty much an essential part of my skin-care routine. Primarily made of medical-grade hydrocolloid dressing, these little stickers help heal a breakout by absorbing excess fluid and oil and reducing inflammation. Acne patches also help prevent further scarring or damage to the skin, especially for those prone to picking and popping their pimples ("It's me, hi, I'm the problem, it's me"). As someone who has done their fair share of pimple popping and has dealt with the consequences of it, I rely on these hydrocolloid patches to curb my bad habit and help heal my skin. I stock up on pimple patches often and have noticed how expensive they can get in the long run, especially if you use them regularly. When I noticed Good Molecules came out with a set of pimple patches, I was instantly drawn to how affordable they were. Ahead, you can check out my full review of the Good Molecules Pimple Patches ($8) and learn why it's worth making the switch. About the Good Molecules Pimple Patches These pimple patches are made of hydrogenated styrene/methylstyrene/indene copolymer, cellulose gum, polyisobutene, and pectin - all the ingredients used to make a standard hydrocolloid patch. Each patch is round with a 12 mm diameter. The box comes with a total of 60 patches, with 15 stickers per sheet. It's made for all skin types. What I Like About the Good Molecules Pimple Patches Good Molecules is known for its effective yet affordable formulations, and these pimple patches give you the best bang for your buck on the market. Although it is a simple acne patch, these are cost-effective at 60 medium-sized patches for around $8, which comes to around 13 cents per patch. Popular competitors average around $12-$15 for 32-36 patches, or 30 to 50 cents per patch. As someone who deals with breakouts and zits often and goes through pimple patches like a bag of chips, this can add up quickly. Despite saving you money, these patches do not compromise on quality. Because of the patch's ultra-thin perimeter, you can wear this during the daytime or overnight. Although they aren't completely transparent, I can get away with wearing these without them looking too obvious, as they seamlessly blend into my skin. Also, I appreciate the larger size. I can target clusters of breakouts or whiteheads without using too many patches. These pimple patches are also pretty sticky and will stay put all day long. I'm able to put other serums, moisturizers, and even makeup on top without losing its staying power. How to Use the Good Molecules Pimple Patches After cleansing and drying your skin, apply the patch over your blemish and align the thicker, center part of the patch to the whitehead. Make sure you wash your hands or use a clean set of tweezers to peel the stick off of the plastic film. You can split the sheet to get a better grip on the patch, as well. According to the brand, you can use a toner before placing this patch onto your skin but I suggest applying the patch after it has fully absorbed - just to ensure it properly sticks to your skin. Follow it up with the rest of your skin-care routine, including serums or moisturizers. You can leave this patch on for about six to eight hours and let it work its gunk-absorbing magic. I like to remove the patch with a set of clean tweezers, but you can also use your fingers. Depending on the stage or size of your zit, you might need to use another sticker to help the blemish fully heal. What to Consider Before Trying the Good Molecules Pimple Patches The Good Molecules Pimple Patches are a no-frills hydrocolloid patch, unlike others on the market that are infused with acne-fighting ingredients like salicylic acid or niacinamide. Therefore, it's best to use these patches on pimples that have already come to a head with visible pus - the ones that essentially look ready to be popped. You should use the patches that contain the other ingredients on larger zits or for early-stage pimples to stop them in their tracks. Where are the Good Molecules Pimple Patches Available? The Good Molecules Pimple Patches are available at Ulta. Rating: Anvita Reddy is an assistant editor for POPSUGAR Shopping. She has a passion for products and is an avid reviewer of everything including furniture, mattresses, home gadgets, cookware, tech, and more. Having dealt with acne as a teenager and into adulthood, her expertise lies in beauty. She has tried and tested plenty of skin care, makeup, hair care, and countless other beauty products.

Searching for a new mattress doesn't have to be stressful. While some might think finding the right mattress on the internet can be a chore, it's actually a great way to get exactly what you want for the best price - especially with the help of our expertise. We love turning to direct-to-consumer brands, because each one has a cool angle on why theirs is the best. It's pretty much impossible to say which one is the clear winner, because every person has different needs, so we're here to break it all down for you with the help of David Rubin, the director of product testing at Sleep Doctor. How Do You Pick the Right Mattress? "When picking a mattress, it's important to find one that supports your individual needs and preferences, like sleep position and body types. Pay attention to comfort, support, durability, and firmness," Rubin says. He also acknowledges that cost can affect which mattress you choose, so if you're on a budget, he says to focus on finding one with a solid support core, cooling properties, and a sleep trial. Rubin states that most mattresses have a life span of six to eight years. "We recommend regularly rotating memory foam mattresses (yearly is fine) from head to foot to help extend the life of your mattress and prevent consistent body imprints. If you are consistently waking up with body aches or pain, it may be time to consider replacing your mattress," he says. To properly care for your mattresses, he suggests using a mattress protector, vacuuming the surface to remove dust and dirt whenever you change your sheets, and to spot clean visible stains or spots with a mixture of water and hydrogen peroxide. What to Know About Different Mattress Types The mattress market is overwhelming just because of the sheer options available. However, Rubin points out that you can break down most mattresses into three categories: hybrid mattresses, memory foam mattresses, and latex mattresses. Hybrid mattresses combine the best parts of a traditional spring mattress with the innovative support of a memory foam mattress. "These have a coil, or innerspring, support core and are constructed with a combination of memory foam, polyfoam, or latex. We usually recommend hybrid mattresses for most sleepers because they are durable, come in many different firmness levels, and sleep relatively cool," Rubin says. If you're a side sleeper and love that body-hugging feel, Rubin recommends going for a memory foam mattress. Pointing out that they are usually on the affordable end, Rubin says, "a memory foam mattress relieves pressure points that can build in the shoulders and hips and excels at conforming to the body." However, he does warn that memory foam sleeps hotter than other materials and adds: "If a memory foam mattress is too soft, it can throw your spine out of alignment." Compared to a memory foam mattress, a latex mattress has more of a responsive, contouring feel and provides a cooler sleep, too. "Though they cost more, latex mattresses provide pressure relief without the feeling of sleeping 'in' the mattress that you get from a memory foam mattress. Latex can be a great option for stomach sleepers who need some contouring without too much sinkage," Rubin says. Ahead, we curated a list of the 11 best mattress choices you can shop online. What makes these special is that they're comfortable, popular, and have easy return and trial policies, so you don't have to feel nervous about making your purchase. Plus, we even found options that come at a variety of price points, so you can get the right mattress for your budget. And to make it even easier to compare, each mattress is priced according to its queen sizing. We tried and tested several of these mattresses ourselves, so you know you're getting a trusted breakdown of these picks. We have editor-backed reviews of mattresses from brands like Casper, supportive options from Bear, organic mattresses like Avocado, and even a mattress that delivers a hotel-like experience from Saatva. These mattresses cater to a variety of different needs and comfort levels, whether you're a side sleeper or deal with back pain and want something cloud-like. No matter what your preferences are, there's something for you. Keep reading to check them all out and find the one you can't wait to sleep on. - Additional reporting by Angela Elias Related: I Tried the Scandinavian Sleep Method, and It's Worth the Hype

When it comes to skin-care products, I prioritize texture above all else. (Alright, that's a slight exaggeration since ingredients are crucial too, but you get the point). When a product feels luxurious on my skin, it's easy for me to use it daily. Conversely, if the texture is off, the product will likely gather dust on my shelf. Having experimented with countless bestselling skin-care products over the years, I've discovered that Cosrx offers one of the most texturally delightful product lines available. My first encounter with the brand was with its Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap, which I loved for its cooling sensation and silky texture that my skin drank up with ease. Recently, however, I've found a new favorite within the brand's lineup: the Cosrx Snail Mucin 92% Moisturizer ($30, originally $35). While it may be easy to mix it up with the brand's famed Snail Mucin Power Essence, in my opinion, this moisturizer is equally deserving of praise. Read on to find out why it's earned a coveted place on my vanity. About the Cosrx Snail Mucin 92% Moisturizer This moisturizer contains 92-percent snail mucin (also called snail secretion filtrate), a gooey substance produced by snails used in many K-beauty products. The ingredient is loaded with skin-protecting antioxidants and is great at hydrating the skin. It also contains hydrating hyaluronic acid and betaine. This product is free from fragrance, animal testing, parabens, sulfates, and phthalates. The brand notes that snail mucin is "obtained in a safe and environmentally-friendly way that's harmless to snails. What I Like About the Cosrx Snail Mucin 92% Moisturizer While the idea of applying a product containing snail mucin to your skin might sound unappealing, I've found that the experience has been quite the opposite. The thick, gel-cream formula feels refreshing on the skin, and while it's the slightest bit sticky at first, my skin absorbs it quickly. Its tackiness makes it double as a great makeup primer; it layers nicely under tinted moisturizer and foundation. But its benefits extend beyond just texture. My dry skin has improved tremendously with this formula. In addition to snail mucin, it boasts sodium hyaluronate (a form of hyaluronic acid), allantoin for its calming properties, and panthenol for added moisture. After a few weeks of use, my skin doesn't just feel more hydrated, I'm also convinced it's plumper. How to Use the Cosrx Snail Mucin 92% Moisturizer My favorite way to use this moisturizer is after cleansing with the Cosrx Advanced Snail Mucin Gel Cleanser ($18). I then apply a small amount of CosrxAdvanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence ($17, originally $25). Then, I squeeze a tiny, dime-size bit of the Cosrx Snail Mucin 92% Moisturizer all over my face and neck (a little bit goes a long way). I seal the deal with face sunscreen before deciding whether or not I'm in the mood for makeup. What to Consider Before Trying the Cosrx Snail Mucin 92% Moisturizer The most important thing to consider before trying the Cosrx Snail Mucin 92% Moisturizer is its sticky texture. While I'm a fan, it may not be the best option for you if you prefer something more traditional, like a creamy lotion. However, if you're curious and somewhat open to exploring in the name of good skin, it's worth a shot. Despite the majority of users finding this formula hydrating, a fraction of people experience the opposite effect. One person who gave it three-star rating wrote in their review: "I have oily skin, and I still feel my skin drying out after using this product." Kristina Collins, MD, FAAD, double board-certified dermatologist and founder of Foy by Dr. Collins, confirms that the formula's ingredients may not suit everyone's skin type. "There are two alcohols in the product, and alcohols typically dehydrate the skin," she explains. "Also, the sodium polyacrylate is a strong oil absorber. Its role is to reduce sebum, so if someone was not super oily, this could be too drying." Where Is the Cosrx Snail Mucin 92% Moisturizer Available? The Cosrx Snail Mucin 92% Moisturizer is available at Amazon, Ulta Beauty, Target, and direct-to-consumer from the brand's website. Review: ★★★★★

"Exercise snacking" is the buzzy fitness trend helping you sneak more movement into your busy schedule. If you don't have time to squeeze a full-length workout into your day, exercise snacking gives you permission to break it down into smaller, "snackable" segments throughout the day. Think: a minute of jumping jacks, two minutes on the stair climber, or even 10 minutes of at-home Pilates. The ultimate goal is to disrupt sedentary time, get your heart rate up, and make it so that you don't have to restructure your entire day around your workout. Exercise snacks may seem small, but multiple studies show that exercise snacking is just as good as it sounds. Research from the University of British Columbia (UBCO) found that exercise snacking led to improvements in aerobic fitness (comparable to the improvements seen from traditional sprint interval training). More recent findings indicate that exercise snacking may also be a more favorable way to exercise, with 71 percent of participants preferring multiple isolated exercise snacks throughout the day, rather than a single structured workout. Read on to learn about the many benefits of exercise snacking, and find out how to make it work best for you. What Is Exercise Snacking? On a peer-reviewed level, exercise snacking was initially introduced in a 2014 study, but its exact definition has since evolved. Originally, exercise snacking referred to brief walking exercises done three times a day with the specific intention of improving glycemic control. Now, exercise snacks more generally describe quick bursts of movement (typically between 10 and 20 minutes, but sometimes even shorter). These so-called "snacks" are often done multiple times throughout the day, with long rest times in between, breaking up sedentary behavior and making fitness more accessible. How Long Should an Exercise Snack Be? The exact length of an exercise snack is really up to you and your schedule. However, one 2022 study found that exercise snacks involving at least 15-30 seconds of hard effort three times a day can improve cardiorespiratory fitness and exercise performance in inactive adults, and also have the potential to improve cardiometabolic health. Examples of the exercise snacks used in this study include stair climbing and cycling. Another study from McMaster University found that intermittent stair climbing throughout the day (for a total time commitment of about 10 minutes) led to improvements in fitness and strength. Experts at UBCO say exercise snacks can be as short as 20-60 seconds, as long as you're getting your heart rate up. Some of their suggestions include jumping jacks, lunges, push ups, and jogging. Generally speaking, the more "snacks" you can do in a day, the better - the most important thing is that the workouts are realistic for your specific lifestyle. What Are the Benefits of Exercise Snacking? One of the biggest barriers to physical activity is a lack of time. Exercise snacking is a way to address this head-on, helping people incorporate exercise into their daily routines without having to carve out additional workout time, or navigate the gym. Research also shows that short bouts of exercise are good for longevity. One study found that just 15 minutes of exercise a week could help you live longer. Another 2022 study from the University of Sydney's Charles Perkins Centre found that doing three one-minute bursts of vigorous activity a day could lead to a reduced risk of death. Considering that sedentary behavior increases risks for cardiovascular diseases, metabolic disorders, cancer, and depression (among others), exercise snacking is a powerful strategy to break up inactivity. It's also comforting know that you don't always need a 45-minute all-out sweat session to reap the health benefits of exercise. Small bouts of movement are valuable, too. So if you're struggling to fit your workouts in, give exercise snacking a try. It just might be the fun-size solution you needed.

I recently visited a wellness resort in Arizona, and the minute I walked into the lobby, I was hit with a fragrance I couldn't quite place - it was slightly earthy but bright at the same time, indulgent and energizing all at once. I, a perfumery novice, couldn't tell you at all what I was smelling. Nevertheless, it screamed: "You're here to relax; don't worry, we're going to take care of you." And every time I walked through that lobby, I instantly felt at ease. The whole experience got me thinking: how cool would it be if everyone (me included) experienced a similar reverie when they stepped foot in my apartment? Could I transform the vibe of my own space simply by scent? According to Bernadette Lim Baricaua, a certified fragrance specialist and cofounder of BC Fragrance, the answer is yes. "Most people don't realize that our homes, just like our bodies, have a characteristic smell to it that we no longer notice because we're so used to it," she says. Baricaua says the first way to "reset" the smell of your home is to "cleanse" the space. Begin by opening your windows and ventilating the space, and then eliminate any scents you don't want (e.g., existing room sprays or fragrance, or smelly foods). This will allow for a "clearer, more intentional fragrance experience" once you figure out the scent vibe you really want to go for. Right now, my studio apartment decor aspires to that of the Arizona resort - airy, Southwestern, with just a touch of trendy flair. I use an eclectic mix of candles and am generally drawn to cleaner scents over floral. But what if I wanted to lean into the breeziness of the space, or create a more intense mood? It turns out that resetting your home vibe is as easy as selecting specific top notes in scented candles and diffusers. I asked Lim to suggest tips and specific scents for creating four distinct home vibes: a beachy bungalow, an edgy enclave, a minimalist oasis, and a cozy sanctuary. Keep reading to find out which scents will help evoke each aesthetic, plus product recommendations for each, as well as general tips for maximizing fragrance in your home. Fragrances to Create a Breezy, Bohemian Bungalow Image Source: Getty / asbe If you're someone who wants to create a coastal, beachy vibe for your space, look for fresh, airy scents. Citrus and marine evoke the ocean, while lighter woodsy fragrances can add a subtle and grounding effect. Top Notes: Citrus (lemon, bergamot), marine notes, light woods (bamboo, sandalwood) Seasonal Adjustment: In the cooler months, try incorporating warmer citrus, like mandarin, to maintain warmth without losing that breezy vibe. Product Recommendation: The Apotheke Sea Salt Grapefruit candle ($44) has all the trappings of a laid-back, beachy fragrance. The brightness of the grapefruit is mellowed out by that indisputable sea salt tang. Fragrances to Create a Cool, Edgy Enclave Image Source: Getty / imaginima If you're someone who's always dreamed of owning a trendy loft in New York City (ahem, me), then you should go for complex scents: dark florals and fruity woods can "mirror the dynamic energy of city life," Lim says. Chypre fragrances can also add sophistication and edge. Top Notes: Dark florals (black orchid, violet), fruity woods (blackcurrant, fig), chypre Seasonal Adjustment: In the summer, lean toward lighter, fruity notes; in the winter, emphasize the darker, more opulent floral notes. Product Recommendation: The Homesick City Lights candle ($25) is aptly named: its amber and bergamot notes evoke all the endless possibilities that a night in a big city bring. Fragrances to Create a Minimalist, Natural Oasis Image Source: Getty / Nelle If you're someone who likes their space to be tranquil, the idea is all about balance. Lim says you can achieve this by pairing warmer gourmand notes with light wood notes for a sense of calm and connection to nature. Top Notes: Light wood (cedar, pine), light gourmand notes (vanilla, almond) Seasonal Adjustment: Go for warmer gourmand notes in the colder months and lighter wood notes during the summer. Product Recommendation: Similarly to the scent of that Arizona retreat, the Le Labo Ambroxyde 17 candle ($84) is a category-defining mix that instills calm. It encompasses musks, woods, and jasmine petals for an irresistibly natural aroma. Fragrances to Create a Cozy, Cushy Sanctuary Image Source: Getty / svetikd And finally, if you're someone who loves the coziness the holidays bring - and want to re-create that feeling in your space year-round - then warm scents and spicy blends are the way to go. Leather and tobacco can add depth and richness, too. Top Notes: Citrus blends (bergamot, grapefruit), spices (cinnamon, clove), leather, tobacco Seasonal Adjustment: When it's warmer out, focus on the lighter citrus and less on the heavier tobacco and leather notes. Product Recommendation: This P.F. Candle Co. Teakwood & Tobacco candle ($28) brings the perfect amount of smokiness and spice to an otherwise bright scent. Its mix of orange and leather top notes with a heavier base of sandalwood and patchouli will fill any room with warmth. Tips For Maximizing the Fragrance of Your Home Layer scents. Lim suggests layering different types of products for higher impact, especially in larger spaces. For example, you could burn a large candle as well as place reed diffusers in the same room. Diffusers offer a steady release of fragrance, Lim says, while candles are more versatile for scenting spaces of different sizes; room sprays, meanwhile, are ideal for quick fixes and immediate bursts of fragrance. You can also utilize indoor plants that introduce subtle and natural scents - eucalyptus, lavender, and jasmine are all great options. Place strategically. Positioning your scent products near entryways or in the path of airflow can help distribute fragrance evenly throughout your space. You can also create "scent zones" by emphasizing certain scents in each room. For example, you might opt for lavender in bedrooms for relaxation (we especially love the P.F. Candle Co. Ojai Lavender diffuser ($34)) and fresh citrus in the kitchen for something a bit brighter. Experiment with customization. From buying an electric diffuser to simply combining water and a few drops of your favorite essential oils in a spray bottle, you can create scents truly tailored to your personal preferences. Related: I Tried That "Saltburn" Bathwater Candle and Now Feel Closer to Jacob Elordi Lena Felton is the director of special content at POPSUGAR, where she oversees features and special projects. Previously, she was an editor at The Washington Post, where she led a team covering issues of gender and identity. She has six years of experience in journalism during which her focus has been feature writing and editing as well as spearheading projects you won't find anywhere else.

If you're looking to spruce up your backyard, balcony, or patio, consider investing in new furniture that captures the comfort and feel of indoor pieces with the weather-resistant durability needed for the outdoors. Furnishing your outdoor setting will expand your living space, making a home with even the tiniest square footage feel more spacious. Whether you're searching for a comfy outdoor sofa, a patio dining table with chairs, or even a hammock, we've got you covered with a bunch of stylish options from Amazon. The retailer carries a ton of impressive choices at affordable price points, with fast and free shipping. We've tested furniture and combed through the reviews of some of the retailer's bestsellers to curate a range of outdoor furniture to fit a variety of needs, budgets, and aesthetics. If you have little ones, we've even uncovered an adorable double chaise lounge that includes hidden storage, cup holders, and a canopy for sun protection. From cute and compact bistro sets to sprawling outdoor sofas, we've found furniture for small outdoor spaces as well as large backyards. Whether your style is sleek and minimal, bohemian, or more traditional, we have silhouettes and materials that work for each aesthetic, including iconic styles like Adirondack chairs, Acapulco chairs, and more. Keep reading to shop our top choices and transform your outdoor space. - Additional reporting by Angela Elias Related: The Best, Most Comfortable Sofas to Shop Online in 2024