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Image Source: Getty/Edward Berthelot / Contributor The influence of technology on the beauty space can't be denied, and a new type of hair extension is even more proof. UV hair extensions, also known as hair fusions or blight extensions, are the latest method gaining traction on TikTok, and the flawless results have many people clamoring to get the look. "It's the most seamless, natural-looking extensions technique to date," Jazmyn Hobdy, hairstylist and CEO of Extended Beauty Bar, tells PS. "It's as if there is nothing there." If you're a regular extensions-wearer, then you likely know that one of the biggest issues that people face is trying to achieve a seamless blend. Since this technique only requires stands of hair sans any tracks or beads, they are lauded as one of the only methods that truly looks like it's coming from the scalp. Curious about UV hair extensions? Ahead, Hobdy explains what you should know about the technique, including how much it costs, how long it lasts, and how to protect your natural hair underneath. What Are UV Hair Extensions? @lachunsoftlife #hairloss #alopecia #fyp #hairextensions #atlantahairstylist #onthisday #coldfusionhairextensions #softlife ♬ original sound - Luxury extensions This process is pretty similar to getting gel nails, except you swap out the nails for hair. "To do UV hair extensions, single strands of hair will be bonded onto your natural pieces of hair," Hobdy says. "The process uses a special glue and UV light to keep the extensions in place." One popular UV hair extensions brand, V-Light, has ethyl cyanoacrylate, sodium stearate, and photoinitiator listed as the ingredients in its glue, which act as bonding agents and the source that hardens the glue for the extensions to stay. How Long Do UV Hair Extensions Last? UV extensions can last a few weeks, depending on your lifestyle. "They can last about six weeks but begin detaching two to four weeks in," Hobdy says. "People who work out, sweat a lot, or have an oily scalp may notice shorter retention times." When it comes to making sure that your natural hair remains healthy during this process, we want to emphasize how important it is to go to a professional if you are considering this hairstyle. "The stylist should be gentle with the extensions during installation - no pulling and tugging on the client's natural hair," Hobdy says. "Also, like every other extension, it's important to have these properly taken out with the adhesive remover." Do not try to take these extensions out at home, especially without the proper tools. Doing so risks damage to your hair and can cause breakage that can take years to repair. How Much Do UV Hair Extensions Cost? The price of UV hair extensions will vary based on everything from your location to the experience level of your hairstylist. If you paid a visit to Hobdy in California, the cost of UV hair extensions would be $250 per section and roughly $1200 for the entire head. How to Do UV Hair Extensions UV extensions differ from K and I-tips in the application. "The latter methods use chunks of hair attached to a chunk of your natural hair," Hobdy says. UV extensions use a single strand method to attach the extensions." If you want to get UV extensions, the entire process is pretty simple. "Your stylist will need bulk human hair, a bonding adhesive, a micro comb, and a V light," Hobdy says. "Taking a small amount of the bulk hair, your stylist will match the density of your hair. Then, the extensions will be laid flat against your natural hair. The glue is then applied and combed in an upward motion to start the attachment process. The glue is then cured with the V light to finalize the bonding." This method of doing hair extensions is still relatively new, but it can be a great way to cover targeted hair loss or add some fullness if you have naturally thin hair. Plus, it never hurts to have another option to refresh your look in your back pocket. Ariel Baker is the assistant editor for PS Beauty. Her areas of expertise include celebrity news, beauty trends, and product reviews. She has additional bylines with Essence and Forbes Vetted.

With Mother's Day fast approaching, it can be overwhelming to scour countless retailers to find the perfect gift. Nordstrom is our go-to shopping source for unearthing quality products that run the gamut of fashion, beauty, home, and even tech, so it's easier to hone in on options that match her interests. If she's due for a wardrobe refresh, Nordstrom's spring fashion guide is filled with standouts, from the perfect spring shoe to gorgeous handbags. For beauty-lovers, we've curated cult-favorite products like a versatile hair styling tool that makes getting ready on busy mornings even easier and a silk pillowcase that improves skin and hair. There are also plenty of lifestyle gifts, including a journal that focuses on gratitude and only takes five minutes a day. If she loves to cook and entertain, she'll appreciate a versatile, non-stick pan that comes in a range of pastel colors or a set of hand-blown wine glasses she might never buy for herself. Depending on your budget, there are gift options for $30 or less, as well as splurge-worthy gifts she'll use and appreciate for years. We've combed through Nordstrom's inventory to hand-pick products our editors have vetted and genuinely love, as well as Nordstrom bestsellers to ensure every gift is worth giving. Browse our top picks to find the perfect Mother's Day gift to give this year. Related: 34 Gifts That Are Perfect For the 40-Something Woman in Your Life

One of the beautiful things about TikTok is that within the hundreds of millions of active users, you can find little communities that seem to speak directly to you. The mental health community in particular has been using the platform to share relatable stories, talk about personal experiences, spread awareness, and provide affirming support. TikTok has even helped people learn more about potential diagnoses, bringing light to the different ways conditions can present in daily life. One mental-health-adjacent trend circulating on TikTok is called "brain flossing," and it centers on 8D audio. This type of audio creates the sensation that sounds are moving around you in space. While 8D audio can be stimulating to anyone, TikTokers are claiming that neurodivergent folks may experience it differently than people with neurotypical brains. As such, some users are suggesting that this could even clue you in to the possibility of whether or not you're neurodivergent yourself. It brings up a lot of questions: What is brain flossing, exactly? Why does 8D audio feel the way it does? And can it clue you in on potential neurodivergence of your own? Here's the rundown. @theweirdocoach I was not ready 😹 #blindreact #neurodivergent #neurospicy ♬ original sound - Isabella Kensington What Is Brain Flossing? Brain flossing isn't exactly a scientific term; rather, it's the best phrase TikTokers have found to encompass the particular feeling they get when they listen to 8D audio. "My understanding is that just like flossing gets rid of unwanted particles between teeth, 8D audio can provide a sense of 'brain flossing' by removing unwanted stimuli," says Abby Klemm, MT-BC, a board-certified music therapist. "With this technique, your brain can focus on the here-and-now sensory experience, giving you the opportunity to refocus, reconnect, and clear out any 'brain gunk.'" What Is 8D Audio? Essentially, 8D audio is a musical effect that gives listeners the feeling that sound is "moving" between the left and right ears, bouncing from one side to the other, or even swirling around your head. (Because of this, 8D audio is best experienced with headphones on; that way, the sound is isolated in each ear versus heard generally by both.) Beyond the cool sensation, 8D actually lights up your brain in a unique way. "Your right and left brain are receiving the sensory input, respectively," Klemm explains. This provides something called bilateral stimulation (BLS), which describes any sort of auditory, sensory, or visual stimulation that crosses the body in a rhythmic pattern. BLS is powerful; it's even used as part of a type of psychotherapy called eye movement desensitization and reprocessing, which was originally developed by psychologist Francine Shapiro, PhD, in the late '80s. "The alternation can provide almost a sense of 'balance' to your brain," Klemm explains. "This then can 'clear out' your mind and provide a sense of relaxation and mental focus." TikTok users have commented on videos using 8D audio to share their experience, saying things such as, "I've listened to this too many times cause how it just makes me feel alive again," and, "It's like medicine for me." Another reason 8D audio can feel so oddly wonderful: "Studies show that physical reactions to music or recordings (such as goosebumps) occur when there are more neural connections lighting up in the brain," Klemm explains. "Neural connections increase when you're alternating input between brain hemispheres." Since 8D audio bounces the input between both brain hemispheres and thus provides more neural connections, it can lead to more physical reactions and "access our brain's pleasure center by giving us a sense of auditory balance and satisfaction," she says. @holdfasthomestead It’s the relief for me 😙👌🏼 #nuerodivergent #brainfloss ♬ record player panned - Isabella Kensington How Brains Experience Music Differently When it comes to experiencing music, every brain is different. But neurodivergent individuals are thought to be more sensory sensitive, which could mean they're more attuned to the differences in input between the right and left hemispheres, and therefore 8D audio, Klemm explains. "For those who are not neurodivergent, the effect could still be relaxing and pleasure-inducing," Klemm says. "However, since neurotypical brains typically filter out a greater percentage of sensory input, the effect would likely not be as strong." It's also important to note that not everyone enjoys the effects of 8D audio. While plenty of people find listening to be calming or cool, others may consider the sounds overstimulating, overwhelming, or upsetting. For example, one TikTok user commented on a video, "my autistic/ADHD self recoiled HARD at this! at least I know learned something new about myself (again)." Other users have said the sound makes them feel "nauseated" or makes their "head hurt" or even that it's "unbearable." How people experience 8D audio likely depends largely on a person's overall sensory preferences, and whether they're more "sensory seeking" or "sensory sensitive." People who fall into the latter camp may be less likely to enjoy the sounds, whether they're neurotypical or neurodivergent. (About one percent of people have a congenital inner-ear condition called semicircular canal dehiscence, which can lead to vertigo in response to certain sounds, according to research published in Scientific Reports. That said, it's unlikely that this is to blame for all adverse reactions to 8D audio.) For some people who are sensory seeking, on the other hand, listening to the sounds can even be a form of stimming - a method of regulating one's sensory experience by creating movements or sounds that are often repetitive, Kaye-O'Connor says. Stimming is often used by people who are neurodivergent, but everyone stims in some way or another. "Types of stimming might include rocking, pacing, fidgeting, hand flapping, or vocalizations," Kaye-O'Connor says - but it can also take the form of listening to songs or watching videos on repeat. "Stimming is a way of mitigating sensory input from the environment to help keep your nervous system calm and regulated to avoid overwhelm. It can also help those with a more sensory-seeking profile to get the sensory input they need to feel calm and comfortable." @raenutt86 This is the most I’ve ever felt like my brain was being flossed #neurodivergent #brainfloss #fyp #OREOBdayStack #OutlanderChallenge #eldermillenial ♬ record player panned - Isabella Kensington Can Brain Flossing Tell You If You're Neurodivergent? Your reaction to 8D audio is not a definite "tell" as to whether or not you have any neurodevelopmental disorder. "Neurodivergence is so nuanced and complex that I wouldn't rely on any one particular experience to suggest or rule out a neurodivergent identity," Kaye-O'Connor says. "Even within the neurodivergent population, you will naturally see a wide variety of responses to the 8D audio experience." You can, however, observe your own unique responses to sensory experiences to gain insight into your "specific sensory preferences and sensory profile," she says. "When listening to 8D audio, what do you notice about your own experience? Is the experience soothing, grounding, and focusing? Or does it feel more overwhelming, disorienting, or even dizzying?" This can give you a better understanding of your own sensory needs and the types of sensory experiences that are most helpful for you, for example, when you're trying to relax, work, or study. And if listening to 8D audio clears your head or makes you feel great, there's no risk to enjoying the sounds. You can find more of it on TikTok or YouTube. If you think you may have a neurodevelopmental condition (such as ADHD or autism spectrum disorder) and you're curious about learning more or interested in professional diagnosis, seek out a pro. For example, try searching on a platform like Choosing Therapy to find a neurodiversity-affirming therapist. Lauren Mazzo was the senior fitness editor at PS. She is a certified personal trainer and fitness nutrition specialist through the American Council on Exercise. Prior to joining PS, she worked for six years as a writer and editor for Shape Magazine covering health, fitness, nutrition, mental health, sex and relationships, beauty, and astrology. Related: ADHD Can Make It Difficult For Women to Participate in Sports - but It Doesn't Have to Be That Way

This informational guide, part of POPSUGAR's Condition Center, lays out the realities of this health concern: what it is, what it can look like, and strategies that medical experts say are proven to help. You should always consult your doctor regarding matters pertaining to your health and before starting any course of medical treatment. Anxiety is a universal emotion. While it isn't pleasant to experience, it can be helpful at times, giving you a shot of energy and focus before a big speech, a major surgery, or a tough conversation with a loved one. But if you feel anxious most of the time or the symptoms (like trouble breathing, heart palpitations, and obsessive thinking - for example) interfere with your regular life, you may have an anxiety disorder. So what is an anxiety disorder, exactly? And how can you tell if you're experiencing anxiety disorder symptoms? Ahead, 2 psychologists break down anxiety disorder types, symptoms, causes, and best treatment options. What Is an Anxiety Disorder? Anxiety disorders are incredibly common, affecting about 31 percent of people in the US at some point in their life. Their symptoms can range from mild to severe. "Anxiety disorders can diminish your day-to-day well-being and take a toll on your relationships, your social life, your ability to do your job, and your health," says Kathleen Cairns, PsyD, a clinical psychologist in private practice in West Hartford, CT. Anxiety sufferers often have insomnia, for instance, as well as digestive problems, headaches, and chronic pain. Types of Anxiety Disorders These are three of the most common types of anxiety disorders, according to Dr. Cairns: Generalized anxiety disorder, in which you are flooded by intense worry about common problems, such as family, work, money, or health. Phobias, which are characterized by extreme fear of something specific (e.g., small spaces, heights, social events). Panic disorder, in which your anxiety becomes so overwhelming that your heart races, you sweat and tremble, you have chest pain, and you have an impending sense of doom. Anxiety Disorder Symptoms Anxiety disorder symptoms can show up in number of ways, including physically, mentally, and behaviorally, per the Cleveland Clinic: Physical symptoms of anxiety Cold or sweaty hands Dry mouth Heart palpitations Nausea Tingling or numb hands or feet Tense muscles Trouble breathing Mental symptoms of anxiety Panic Nightmares Obsessive thinking Flashbacks to traumatic experiences Behavioral symptoms of anxiety Trouble sleeping Inability to be still Ritualistic behaviors Causes of Anxiety Disorders Anxiety disorders can be triggered by a number of biological and environmental factors. These include: Genetics. Certain anxiety disorders may run in families, research has shown. Stress and difficult life experiences, including childhood and adult trauma. Hormones. "Women are twice as likely to have anxiety as men, partly because of hormones," says Ken Abrams, PhD, a professor of psychology at Carleton University in Ottawa, Canada. Past research has linked fluctuations in sex hormones like estrogen to a vulnerability to mood disorders like anxiety. Brain biology likely contributes to the risk as well. Studies have shown that people with anxiety have increased activity in certain areas of their brains that relate to emotion processing; this could be caused by genetic and/or environmental factors. How Are Anxiety Disorders Diagnosed? "There are no lab tests or scans that can diagnose anxiety disorders," per Cleveland Clinic. But a mental health professional (like a psychiatrist or psychologist) will be able to assess your reported systems and observe your behaviors to make an an assessment. They may also consult the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) when going about determining a diagnosis, Cleveland Clinic reports. Anxiety Disorder Treatments "Anxiety is usually treated with psychotherapy, medication, or both," Dr. Abrams says. A variety of therapy types can be useful for the treatment of anxiety, including cognitive behavior therapy, which teaches people with anxiety to notice their worried thoughts and replace them with more realistic ones, Dr. Abrams says. Exposure therapy, which focuses on gradually confronting the fears underlying your anxiety, can be helpful as well. Another effective option: acceptance and commitment therapy, which teaches anxiety sufferers techniques like mindfulness and goal setting. "Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, a type of antidepressant, are helpful for some people. So are benzodiazepines, like Valium, although they can only be used briefly - if you have anxiety about an upcoming event, for instance - because they can cause dependence and withdrawal," Dr. Abrams says. Beta blockers, which lower blood pressure to reduce the physical responses associated with anxiety, like a racing heart, are also useful and are commonly prescribed. Unlike benzodiazepines, they are less addictive. Research has shown that exercise can be calming for people with anxiety, too. It can also be useful to connect with other people with anxiety in a group therapy setting. "It's easy to assume you're the only person who experiences these feelings, which makes you feel worse - so group therapy can be comforting," Dr. Abrams says. "Treatment doesn't completely cure anxiety, but it can help you get on top of it so it doesn't take as much of a toll on your life." If you or someone you know is struggling with anxiety, the National Alliance on Mental Illness has resources available, including a helpline at 1-800-950-NAMI (6424). You can also dial 988, the nation's new mental health crisis hotline. - Additional reporting by Alexis Jones Alexis Jones is the senior health and fitness editor at POPSUGAR. Her passions and areas of expertise include women's health and fitness, mental health, racial and ethnic disparities in healthcare, and chronic conditions. Prior to joining POPSUGAR, she was the senior editor at Health magazine. Her other bylines can be found at Women's Health, Prevention, Marie Claire, and more. Ginny Graves is an award-winning writer in the San Francisco Bay Area whose work focuses on science, psychology, health, nature, and the human-animal bond. Related: 18 Expert-Backed Affirmations For Anxiety Can Anxiety Cause You to Have Bad Dreams? We Asked Experts