Life Style

Having thin hair, whether it's from natural causes or damage, can be hard to style and maintain. If you have experience with shedding or even hair loss, you may be looking for a quick solution to boost thickness, and hair extensions are a great option. The thought of hair extensions for thin hair may be a bit daunting as you don't want to cause any more damage and encourage any more fallout. However, celebrity hairstylist Andrew Fitzsimons tells PS, "Hair extensions can make a world of difference for anyone, but especially those who have always had thinner hair." Not only can they make your hair appear fuller and more voluminous in a natural way, but extensions can also provide you with more variety when it comes to styling. While extensions themselves don't directly improve the health of thin hair, "They can provide temporary solutions to enhance volume and length, which can improve confidence," celebrity hairstylist Annagjid "Kee" Taylor says. "Extensions can also offer protection to fragile strands by minimizing the need for excessive heat styling or chemical treatments that can weaken thin hair." Hair extensions can add some life to your hair and give it that oomph that you're missing. Ahead, Taylor and Fitzsimons break down all of the information you could need about using hair extensions for thin hair. How to Conceal Hair Extensions in Thin Hair "The process of concealing your extensions starts before you even put them in," Fitzsimons says. "For the best, undetectable application, make sure you create clean parts when you section your hair. Also, keep extensions away from your hairline or close to your part." He explains that clip-in hair extensions often come with six or more wefts, but if you already have thin hair, you may not have enough to cover the pieces, so don't feel like you need to use them all. "If the extensions are too bulky, you can always bring them to your salon and ask your stylist to thin out the wefts." To conceal extensions in thin hair effectively, it is important to choose lightweight, quality options. "Those with thin hair may at times find it difficult to seamlessly blend extension into their natural hair, however, there are ways to overcome this," Taylor says. "Make sure your extensions are properly placed by intentionally positioning them where your hair is denser and opt for color-matched extensions for seamless blending." "Layering the extensions, trimming, [and] blending them with your natural hair can enhance and maintain a natural look. Regular maintenance and gentle handling are always essential to keeping the extensions discreet, preserving their quality and ensuring that your extensions match your hair type and texture." That said, hair extensions aren't for everyone. "Those who have extremely fine or fragile hair may find that extensions cause too much tension or damage to their natural hair," Taylor says. "Also, those experiencing hair loss or scalp conditions should consult with a medical professional before getting extensions, as they may exacerbate underlying issues." The Best Hair Extensions For Thin Hair As far as good options go, there are a variety of hair extensions for thin hair that work well to add volume and length. "Hand-tied extensions offer a seamless blend with your natural hair while providing the desired volume and length without excessive tension," Taylor says. "This involves gently sliding small beads onto the hair and hand-threading extension wefts through them. These extensions work especially well for straight or wavy hair as they lay flat against the head." Taylor says Kovi's Hand-Tied Extensions are a high-quality choice that won't break the bank. "Being crafted from small groupings of human hair, these make for a great non-detectable option." Types of Hair Extensions to Avoid With Thin Hair There are a few types of extensions that you should think twice about before using. "Extensions such as clip-ins, which are temporary and can be clipped in and out daily, are not recommended for thin hair," Taylor says. "This is because taking them in and out every day can cause excessive stress on the hair, and they can slip throughout the day, making your hair more prone to breakage." Sew-in extensions, also known as weaves, are also not so great for thin hair. "While they are a popular choice for many, sew-ins need a strong foundation because the extensions are essentially getting braided into your natural hair," Taylor says. "This technique can also cause overall too much tension and stress on your scalp and hair." Overall, it is best to avoid any extensions that feel a little too heavy and have application and removal processes that can be rough on the hair and scalp. How Long Do Hair Extensions Last in Thin Hair? "Extension life varies depending on the type of hair extensions that you wear," Taylor says. "They can last anywhere from a few days to nine months. Regardless of the extension type, it is important to practice taking care of your natural hair and extensions to extend their life and quality." She explains that with proper care, hand-tied extensions can last up to six to nine months, while tape-in extensions can last anywhere from six to 10 weeks. The best extensions for thin hair aren't as thick as classic clip-ins hair extensions. For some shopping recommendations, keep scrolling.

I may be in a happy, healthy relationship, but I'd be lying if I said I didn't love the concept of a divorce ring. Yes, I know they're the products of a bad breakup, and no, I don't ever want to get a divorce, but there is something chic about a divorce ring and the subtle "fuck you, ex" of it all. Take, for example, Emily Ratajkowski, who filed for divorce from Sebastian Bear-McClard in 2022. On March 19, the 32-year-old model and podcast host debuted her gorgeous divorce rings on Instagram, crediting New York City jeweler Alison Lou, the same brand that created her engagement ring. Though you may hear the word "divorce ring" and assume it's a brand-new piece of jewelry, a divorce ring is actually a reconstruction of the original engagement or wedding ring, Barkev Meserlian, founder and CEO of Barkev's jewelry store, tells POPSUGAR. In Ratajkowski's case, her two new divorce rings were repurposed from her original two-stone engagement ring. "There has been a recent increase in clients seeking to reconstruct their wedding rings into what are now known as divorce rings," Meserlian says. "People are seeking ways to symbolically move on from their relationships while retaining the sentimental value of their original jewelry." In one example posted on TikTok, jewelry brand Fewer Finer shared how they reset the diamond from an old wedding ring into a new "evil eye looking signet style." They also engraved the word "badass" inside. Engagement ring designer Zache Emigh also shared his experience repurposing rings for divorcees on TikTok. "The idea of wearing diamonds from a previous marriage might make some people uncomfortable, but I think it's a beautiful way to repurpose something beautiful and symbolize a fresh start," he says in the video. According to Meserlian, repurposing an old wedding ring can be done many different ways. "Techniques can range from simple changes, such as resizing or reshaping, to more complex ones, such as melting down metal to create a new design," he says. "I'm not starting over, I'm starting from experience." Some people may choose to engrave messages and symbols into the divorce ring, while others may want to incorporate new gemstones. "Introducing new stones, especially those associated with healing properties (like amethyst or rose quartz), can signify the start of a healing journey," Meserlian says. Whatever you decide, repurposing your engagement or wedding ring is a good idea if you're not sure what to do with it, Meserlian says. He also notes it's an environmentally and financially conscious decision, since it repurposes existing materials. Meserlian adds, "It's a way of reclaiming one's identity and moving forward with a tangible symbol of resilience and self-love." That said, there are other options: Jennifer, 27, didn't make another ring, but she did reset the diamond into a pendant she wears on her necklace. "I decided instead of keeping it in a box, I'd wear it and remember that I'm not starting over, I'm starting from experience," she tells POPSUGAR. Jill, 32, on the other hand, bought an entirely new ring. "It was so empowering, and I don't regret it one bit. Get the ring and do it however it helps heal or empower you on the new path," she adds. Of course, there are many ways you can process a divorce. But converting your wedding ring into a divorce ring sounds like the most badass way to signal a fresh start. Meserlian says, "It transforms an item that may trigger painful memories into a symbol of strength, resilience, and hope for the future." Related: After My Divorce, I Came Down With "This Is My Husband" Syndrome Taylor Andrews is a Balance editor at POPSUGAR who specializes in topics relating to sex, relationships, dating, sexual health, mental health, and more. In her six years working in editorial, she's written about how semen is digested, why sex aftercare is the move, and how the overturn of Roe killed situationships.

We know what you're thinking: are towel warmers just another unnecessary buy? But hear us out. Whether you're a morning or nighttime bather, nothing hits the spot once you step out of the shower or bath quite like a warmed towel; it's like wrapping yourself up in a cozy blanket. What was once reserved for professional spas and luxury hotels is now a brimming category fit for wellness advocates, and even those who aren't. After all, showering is something we all do, so why not make the routine feel a little more luxurious? Just like heated floors for your feet, towel warmers ensure your body stays warm and cozy post-shower, adding a touch of comfort to your daily life. But as with most household items, browsing the best towel warmers can be overwhelming. There's a wide variety available, with features ranging from free-standing, hardwired, and portable, in addition to towel warmer racks, bucket-style, and large-capacity options. There's also your unique space to consider: a towel warmer that takes up a lot of room may not work for small spaces, and, similarly, a towel warmer that doesn't have a spacious capacity may not be best for large households. In any case, if you're looking for some help shopping for the best towel warmers, we put together a list to make things a tad bit easier and a whole lot toastier. Below, find six of the best towel warmers that'll spark joy for you, your family, and house guests alike. Related: I Tested Oprah's Favorite Cooling Sheets - They're Buttery Soft and on Sale

Whether you're in the market for a new hair tool, leveling up your skin-care game, or searching for the perfect non-sticky lip gloss, Amazon has a ton of high-quality beauty products worth adding to your collection. From necessities to luxuries, the online retailer has everything you could possibly need without even getting up from your couch. Looking to combat dullness? Try the beloved Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Salicylic Acid Exfoliant. Tackling blemishes? Stock up on Rael hydrocolloid patches for fighting acne. Or, maybe you're looking for some new makeup products. In that case, you're in luck; there are a bevy of products to choose from, including liquid eyeliner for the perfect cat-eye to a mechanical drugstore pencil that's so delicious, it should be luxury. Keep scrolling to shop the 30 best Amazon products of 2024, including a mix of highly-rated items and editor favorites. With the sheer number of options on the site, it's both exciting and overwhelming, not to mention, the package can land on your doorstep in the blink of an eye. Related: 13 Cult-Favorite Luxury Beauty Products on Sale at Amazon

Angel Reese appeared on billboards in New York City for her Reebok endorsement. Flau'jae Johnson signed a rap contract with Jay-Z's Roc Nation and an apparel deal with Puma. Mikaylah Williams recently inked a deal with Jordan Brand. And several other Louisiana State University women's basketball team players as well - a squad mainly made of Black collegiate athletes - have excelled just as strongly in the outside world as they have on the court. Witnessing it all has ushered in a new era of Black Girl Magic for myself and many other Black women I know. It's the same joy and insane pride I felt as a Black woman when Reese and her team won the NCAA tournament last year with their edges completely intact, when Kamala Harris was sworn in as the first woman and Black vice president in 2021, and when I screamed front row as Beyoncé became the first Black woman to headline Coachella back in 2018. Things are changing. Awareness is growing. In each of these iconic moments, I thought: people are celebrating us, and soon marginalized communities will no longer be marginalized. But similarly to last year's hard-earned win, LSU's celebration has been short-lived during this year's March Madness tournament. Instead of relishing in their success and additional fame, Reese and the rest of the team's experience has been marked and stained with discrimination, misogyny, and racism. "I've been through so much. I've seen so much. I've been attacked so many times. Death threats. I've been sexualized. I've been threatened," Reese said tearfully in a post-game interview after their 94-87 loss to the Iowa Hawkeyes on Monday night, which took LSU out of the 2024 NCAA tournament. "I've been attacked so many times. Death threats." Reese was referring to the public's relentless interest in attacking her every move. You might remember how she was ridiculed last year for throwing up John Cena's infamous "you can't see me" gesture to Hawkeyes star player Caitlin Clark while pointing to her own ring finger to indicate where the championship ring would land. More recently, The Los Angeles Times, which primarily covers UCLA sports, received backlash for an opinion piece that stated LSU is "seemingly hellbent on dividing women's college basketball" and that Reese is a "taunter." But despite the media painting a picture of Reese as a villain who is undeserving of praise, the people who take the time to get to know her are continuing to back her. In the post-game interview, Johnson strongly defended her teammate: "Everybody can have their opinion on Angel Reese, but y'all don't know her. I know the real Angel Reese, and the person I see every day is a strong person, is a caring, loving person. But the crown she wears is heavy." Teammate Hailey Van Lith also came to her defense and said, "I think Angel is one of the toughest people I've been around. People speak hate into her life. I've never seen people wish bad things on someone as much as her, and it does not affect her. She comes to practice every day. She lives her life every day." While sisterhood is a beautiful necessity (and I'm happy to see Reese's teammates stand up for her), the support needs to go more mainstream. In addition to blatant racism, it seems much of the public has failed to realize Reese is a 21-year-old woman. And the most intense bashing of someone so young has come from the likes of white, middle-aged men. It's the David Portnoys of the world who can shamelessly rattle off "classless piece of shit," or white sports commentators like Keith Olbermann who utter, "What a fucking idiot." History has taught Black athletes, especially women, to be strong and hold their head high amid adversity. "There are so many things, and I've stood strong every single time," Reese said on Monday night. "I just try to stand strong for my teammates because I don't want them to see me down and not be there for them." The fact that Reese and other Black athletes feel they need to curb their emotions, trash-talking skills, and other elements of the game exemplifies the double standards placed on Black women athletes. As writer Sumiko Wilson recently put it: "When Black women use their voices, the lightheartedness tends to disappear and the professional consequences and impact to their reputations can be significant. So who is actually allowed to engage?" Reese and many other Black women athletes are symbols of hope for me, Black women, and many other misrepresented communities. What she does on the court is a reflection of what can be achieved for those of us who are so often othered. And to continuously overlook her talent and humanity because of her skin color is a disservice to our hard, tireless battle toward equality for Black women athletes. Although I am glad that women's sports viewings have gone up significantly in the last decade - with more new fans understanding that women's athleticism can be just as exciting as their men counterparts' - I am growing very weary waiting for the majority to come around. Reese, like so many Black people in the eye of discrimination, is determined to turn the other cheek and take one for the team. "I'm going to always leave that mark and be who I am and stand on that," she said. "Hopefully the little girls that look up to me, hopefully I give them some type of inspiration." Black women, like all other people, should have the freedom to show up how they choose, despite preconceived standards that have not been set by them. For Black people, our unwavering resilience is the byproduct of this constant adversity. Although I too take pride in this character trait, I wait with eager anticipation for the day where navigating the sports world doesn't force us to show our resilience. As Reese concluded for us all: "Hopefully it's not this hard and all the things that come at you, but keep being who you are, keep waking up every day, keep being motivated, staying who you are, staying 10 toes down, don't back down and just be confident." Natasha Marsh is a freelance writer who writes about fashion, beauty, and lifestyle. Prior to freelancing, she held styling staff positions at The Wall Street Journal, Burberry, Cosmopolitan Magazine, British GQ, and Harpers Bazaar.

Have you applied sunscreen today? Ask any dermatologist to name one nonnegotiable skin-care product you need in your routine, and we can almost guarantee you they'll say SPF. Whether you're planning on spending hours in the sun while on vacation or you just happen to sit in front of a window every day at work - you need sun protection. Sol de Janeiro, the brand most well-known for their yummy-smelling body lotions (or that wild spider controversy), recently launched three different SPF products: a mineral body lotion, a shimmering body oil, and a body spray. The Sol de Janeiro Rio Radiance SPF 50 Body Spray ($36) is a broad-spectrum body spray meant to protect you from the sun. The product's key ingredients include niacinamide to brighten and even skin tone; pongamia-seed extract, an antioxidant that protects skin; and coconut water to hydrate skin. It offers a cooling sensation when applied to the skin, and it's also water-resistant for up to 40 minutes. The brand recommends shaking well before use and applying the product liberally 15 minutes before sun exposure. They say you should start by misting the skin and then rub the product in. They also recommend reapplying every two hours. To see whether the product is worth the hype, we tapped four editors with different skin types and tones and asked them to put Sol de Janeiro's body spray sunscreen to the test. Read their honest thoughts about the brand's latest launch ahead.