• Blackheads in ears are more common than you may realize.
• If you experience this, you're probably wondering how to get blackheads out of ears.
• Ear blackhead causes include oil buildup and clogged pores.

Ear blackheads are one of those common skin-care concerns that can be annoying to deal with. They may not be as noticeable as the blackheads on your face, but they can still be frustrating to deal with. While blackheads can occur anywhere on the body where there are hair follicles, the ears are a particularly common location. Ear blackhead removal can be a bit trickier than removing spots that pop up on your face, as the skin in that area is more delicate, not to mention very hard to reach - but they're not impossible to treat. You'll want to avoid trying to pop them at home - while tempting, it's never the best course of action, no matter where blackheads appear.

So, how does one go about removing ear blackheads? We spoke with two board-certified dermatologists, Jodi LoGerfo, DNP, APRN, FNP-C, and Julie Russak, MD, to get their recommendations for treating, preventing, and minimizing the appearance of blackheads in ears.

Ear Blackhead Causes

The blackheads in your ears are essentially the same as the blackheads you might find on your face. Similar to on your face, "a blackhead occurs when pores become clogged with excess oil, debris, environmental pollution, and dead skin cells," Dr. LoGergo tells POPSUGAR. "The debris fills the pore and remains open, becoming dark due to a chemical reaction called oxidation."

Blackheads tend to appear in areas where there are a lot of oil glands, and the ears are no exception. "It's easy for debris to build up as we don't clean the inside of our ears as frequently as we wash our face," Dr. LoGerfo says. Additionally, the anatomical shape of our ears can trap oil and debris, making it easier for blackheads to form.

How to Remove Blackheads in Ears

While it may be tempting to try and manually remove ear blackheads by squeezing them out, this approach is not always effective and can even cause more harm than good. "Some blackheads may stay in the skin and even go deeper, creating more inflammation, and therefore leading to scars and hyperpigmentation on this skin," Dr. Russak says. Additionally, the skin in your ears is very sensitive and can be prone to infection, making DIY extractions a risky move.

If you're wondering how to remove deep blackheads in ears, according to Dr. LoGerfo, the best way to remove ear blackheads is to see a dermatology provider. "They can use a comedone extractor correctly and remove them for the patient," she says. Comedone extractors are specialized tools used to extract blackheads and other types of acne. Dr. Russak suggests getting them removed via a medical-grade facial or with the machine known as the Hydrafacial, where a softening solution and water suction are used to remove blackheads from the skin without causing more damage to the surrounding skin.

Prevention Tips For Blackheads in Ears

We often neglect our ears when it comes to skin care, but thoroughly cleansing and taking care of that area can help prevent blackheads. Dr. LoGerfo suggests using acne-fighting medications like topical retinoids (adapalene, tretinoin, prescription tazarotene), azelaic acid, or salicylic acid after cleaning the ear area. "Antiacne skin-care products can be effective in treating blackheads, particularly those used for comedonal acne."

As with acne anywhere on the body, consistency is key to preventing future breakouts.

The 2023 iHeartRadio Awards was one for the books, especially when it came to beauty looks on the red carpet. We saw everything from celebrities embracing more natural looks to intricate, over-the-top makeup. However, no matter where we looked, there was one trend we kept seeing over and over: "rich girl" nails.

We spotted Becky G, who paired her rich-girl manicure with a sheer, showstopping black dress; Nicole Scherzinger, whose minimal manicure looked stunning coupled with her pink cutout dress; and Madison Beer, whose nude nails allowed her glamorous dress to take center stage. And that was only the beginning.

The term rich-girl nails was coined by celebrity manicurist Tom Bachik, who has touched the hands of some of the biggest celebrities in the game, like Jennifer Lopez, Selena Gomez, and Margot Robbie. "Rich-girl nails are a modern take on a sophisticated classic," Bachik previously told POPSUGAR, adding that the color is typically a "creamy, full-coverage nude playing homage to the greige inspiration."

The look, which is minimal yet chic, has been seen on celebrities like Hailee Steinfeld and Marsai Martin and was the trending manicure at the SAG Awards back in February.

Take a closer look at all of the celebrities wearing rich-girl nails one the iHeartRadio Music Awards red carpet ahead.

The iHeartRadio Awards is bursting at the seams with stunning beauty moments, but there's one standout moment we'd like to applaud. Singer-songwriter Phoebe Bridgers arrived at the event on March 27 wearing a long, black Rodarte dress with an appliqué flower detail, putting her arms on full display - underarm hair included.

To be clear: there is nothing revolutionary about body hair. (In case you haven't noticed, everyone has it.) Still, it's rare to see celebrities flaunting theirs so openly, partly because of the outdated societal norms placed on women. Bridgers proudly showing off hers without shame - much like Emily Ratajkowski, Marsai Martin, and other stars have - helps normalize this reality. In fact, in recent years, more and more people have been embracing the body-hair-positivity movement in an effort to destigmatize grooming practices, especially for women. That's why we'll gladly praise anyone showing it off for exactly what it is: completely natural.

Bridgers, who presented at tonight's awards, recently released a new album with her group, Boygenius, which is available to stream now. She topped off the rest of her look with black nail polish, minimal eye makeup, and a bold, vampy lip. See it in its entirety below.

Image Source: Frazer Harrison/Getty Images

Image Source: Frazer Harrison/Getty Images

Brian Austin Green recently underwent quite the dramatic hair transformation. On March 27, the former "Beverly Hills, 90210" actor showed off his new platinum-blond hair at the iHeartRadio Music Awards after previously debuting the look at a basketball game a few weeks prior. He posed on the red carpet alongside girlfriend Sharna Burgess, with whom he shares 9-month-old son Zane.

Green's fresh color matched Burgess's blond, though it's unclear whether the coordinated hue was planned. The dad of five, who also shares three kids with ex-wife Megan Fox, slicked back his short blond hair, while Burgess wore her long hair parted to the side with mermaid waves. He paired the new hairstyle with a casual white T-shirt, black jacket, and gray trousers.

Aside from Green's noticeable hair change, other notable beauty looks on the red carpet included Doja Cat's black ombré nails and buttery-blond hair, Pink's chrome french manicure, and Bebe Rexha's Pamela Anderson-esque messy updo.

The actor isn't the only celebrity to go blond as of late. Both Kourtney Kardashian and her 8-year-old son, Reign, recently bleached their hair platinum. Cher, who's also set to make an appearance at the award show, took blond for a spin earlier this month.

See more photos of Green and Burgess at the iHeartRadio Music Awards ahead.

Image Source: Frazer Harrison/Getty Images

The iHeart Radio awards are officially underway, and we've got our eyes peeled for the best beauty looks of the night. Although it's always hard to pick a favorite, Pink, who showed up early at the red carpet on Monday, March 27, is a serious contender. She was seen wearing an all-white ensemble that consisted of a structured white blazer and a pleated, floor-length white skirt, and while she finished off her look with diamond accessories, we couldn't stop staring at her nails, which combined two of our favorite trends: the french manicure and a chrome finish.

Chrome nails have been one of the most popular nail trends we've seen over the last year, and after going viral on TikTok, the look has been spotted on celebrities like Anne Hathaway, Zendaya, and Dua Lipa, to name a few. The look features a base nail color of choice, and then requires either going over the shade with a chrome powder or using a special chrome polish.

Chrome french tip manicures have been a newer take on the trend, but have been seen on celebrities like Kate Hudson. Pink's nails were filed into a square shape and featured a neutral nude base color with a silver chrome tip.

The "Just Give Me a Reason" singer, who released Trustfall, her ninth studio album on February 17, is performing at the event, and she is also receiving the 2023 iHeartRadio Icon Award.

Take a closer look at Pink's chrome french manicure ahead.

Image Source: Joe Scarnici/Getty Images

Image Source: Kayla Oaddams/WireImage

The iHeartRadio Music Awards 2023, premiering on March 27, is a show you won't want to miss. With appearances from Cher, H.E.R., Phoebe Bridgers, and many more, plus, performances by P!nk, Kelly Clarkson, and Latto (to name just a few), it's going to be an eventful night. But what we're really excited about is the hair, makeup, and nail looks from the red carpet.

Last year, standout looks included Jennifer Lopez's double french manicure, which she wore to perform and receive the coveted Icon Award, Willow Smith's "indie sleaze"-inspired makeup, and Olivia Rodrigo's fun graphic eyeliner moment. If years past are any indication, 2023 should be even bigger. Though the night is still young, we're already impressed by the beauty looks at the iHeartRadio Music Awards so far.

A few beauty trends have been dominating the 2023 award season and we expect to see more of them at this event. "Rich girl" nails and french manicures have reigned supreme, as have updo hairstyles and lots of sparkly eye makeup. There's plenty of room for experimentation and play in the beauty space, and the red carpet is the best stage to show it off. Each celebrity to arrive so far has gotten us even more excited for the next.

Ahead, keep scrolling to see some of the best beauty looks at the iHeartRadio Music Awards 2023 - you won't be disappointed.

Image Source: Getty / VichienPetchmai

• "Foundation facials" are trending on TikTok.
• The treatment involves microneedling semipermanent makeup into the skin.
• An aesthetician breaks down the facial as well as the cost and risks associated with the treatment.

At this point, we will assume you spend as much time on TikTok as we do. If so, your For You page may have provided you with the now-viral video of a person receiving a "foundation facial."

In the clip, which has been viewed more than 10 million times, aesthetician @traciafanclub, is seen applying what looks like a foundation onto someone's skin. The video, captioned "foundation facial," promptly blew up with comments from people asking to see the finished product, requesting clarification on the technique, and wondering if the results are permanent.

What exactly is this treatment, and what does it entail? Rachel Roff, aesthetician and founder of Urban Skin Rx, details how foundation facials work, as well as the risks associated with the procedure.

What Is a Foundation Facial?

"Foundation facials are a microneedling treatment that inserts BB cream in the skin," Roff tells POPSUGAR. "Basically, it's a semipermanent foundation that lasts quite a few months."

The best candidates for this procedure are people who want to even out their skin tones and want a more "perfected" canvas. People with melasma or redness from pimple scars could find foundation facials helpful.

The Benefits of Foundation Facials

This procedure is basically like getting permanent makeup etched on, which would ideally reduce your getting-ready time in the mornings - it's like the ultimate color corrector. "Foundation facials even out the skin tone and hide minor imperfections," Roff says. "In addition, it's great for those that struggle with redness and broken capillaries."

Another plus is how long you'll see results. "The effects of a foundation facial can last anywhere from six to 12 months," Roff says.

What Happens During a "Foundation Facial"?

@traciafanclub

foundation facial

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Foundation facials are similar to getting microneedling. "The process involves rolling tiny needles over the face, which allows for deeper penetration of serums, and also increases the skin's production of collagen and elastin," Roff says. "Some could have some downtime for about a week, and redness alongside some swelling is normal."

The Risks of Foundation Facials

As with any beauty treatment, some risks can accompany foundation facials. "There are already minor risks associated with the microneedling technique, and we don't know how these pigments will interact with the skin," Roff says. "Infections, allergic reactions, scarring, and more are all possible side effects of getting this treatment."

Additionally, if you have certain skin conditions, you may not want to get the facial. "If you have inflammatory skin issues like eczema, acne, or psoriasis, you should avoid this treatment," Roff says. Remember this procedure should be done by a professional. "This technique requires a professional microneedling tool and pigmented formula," Roff says. "You can't just use your home microneedling device with your favorite foundation. That's an infection waiting to happen."

Alongside a pretty steep price tag (foundation facials can cost anywhere from $400 to $700 for two treatments), another downside is that it's not an inclusive treatment yet. "Shade ranges are very limited, so only fair to lightly tanned skin tones are candidates," Roff says.

Foundation facials are pretty controversial, but as with all beauty treatments, what you do to your face and body is your decision alone. Should you choose to get the procedure done, be sure to go to a professional who is well-versed in the technique and can answer all questions.

• Nail pitting is classified by depressions in the fingernails or toenails.
• A dent in fingernails can be caused by different underlying issues such as nail psoriasis.
• There are treatments for nail pitting, but they are not always effective.

Be honest: how often do you thoroughly examine your fingernails and toenails? At your biweekly manicure appointment at your favorite nail salon or rarely (if at all)? If you've ever taken a look at your hands or feet and found a dent in your fingernail, you might be wondering exactly what it is and how it got there. While it could be a fluke, an indentation from an injury, or the product of an at-home manicure gone wrong, if you notice multiple dented fingernails or multiple dents across different nails, it could actually be what is referred to as nail pitting.

Pitted fingernails refer to depressions in the fingernails or toenails and are most often seen when someone has nail psoriasis but can be a symptom of many different underlying causes. Whether you need help identifying pitting nails, are trying to figure out if the dents are related to nail psoriasis, or just want to understand nail-pitting causes, we've got you covered.

Ahead, we chat with dermatologist Hadley King, MD-FAAD; Nava Greenfield, MD, board-certified dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology Group; and Kunal Malik, MD, board-certified general and cosmetic dermatologist, who answered all of our questions about nail pitting, like what it is, what causes it, and what treatments are effective at eliminating it.

What Is Nail Pitting?

"Nail pitting refers to small, shallow, deep dents, or depressions that appear on the surface of the fingernails or toenails," Dr. Malik tells POPSUGAR. Dr. Greenfield adds: "They can be sparse, with just one to two pits noted, or abundant, with numerous pits in each nail."

If you're trying to identify whether or not you are experiencing nail pitting, you'll want to start by examining your nails carefully. The indentations are typically 1-2 mm and round in shape. Nail pitting can also look like small white marks and can cause discoloration of the nails.

If you're unsure, you can consult with your doctor, and a biopsy can be done if more clarification is necessary.

Nail-Pitting Causes

There can be multiple different causes of nail pitting, so it's important to consult your doctor if you are experiencing it.

"Nail pitting is most commonly linked to psoriasis but can be associated with other conditions such as eczema, alopecia areata, and other inflammatory conditions or rheumatologic conditions," Dr. King says. Dr. Malik adds: "Other causes include atopic dermatitis, which is rare; connective-tissue diseases; or autoimmune conditions such as lichen planus, pemphigus vulgaris, and sarcoidosis."

If caused by nail psoriasis, in addition to nail pitting, your nails might become thicker or misshapen or have white, yellow, or brown discoloration. Nail psoriasis is not contagious and can be diagnosed by your doctor. If you are experiencing nail psoriasis, you may or may not also experience symptoms of psoriasis, a chronic anti-inflammatory skin condition, on other areas of your body.

Treatments For Nail Pitting

If the nail pitting is mild and isn't causing distress, it may not require treatment. Both Dr. Malik and Dr. King agree that managing nail pitting isn't easy because treatments aren't always effective.

"Generally, treating nail pitting is difficult, as topical medications are unable to easily penetrate through the nail plate to the nail bed," Dr. Malik says. However, Dr. King explains there are options such as the application of corticosteroids, calcipotriene, tazarotene, or salicylic acid. "Injecting corticosteroids into the nail matrix can also be tried, although this is painful," he says.

Ultimately, treating nail pitting should be directed at the underlying cause. For example, Dr. Greenfield says that if there's an inflammatory condition, treating that underlying disease could result in an improvement of the nail pitting.

While it isn't possible to reduce nail pitting per se, Dr. Malik says you can aim to keep nails healthy by staying hydrated, eating well-balanced diets rich in nutrients such as vitamin B and zinc, keeping nails trimmed and short, and practicing caution with harsh manicures.

If the nail pitting isn't causing discomfort and your reasoning for wanting to get rid of it is purely cosmetic, you can always cover up the indentations with nail polish.

A little cut can go a long way. During the season four premiere of "Succession" on March 26, Naomi Pierce, played by Annabelle Dexter-Jones, debuted an edgy "mixie" haircut that sent fans into a frenzy on social media. A cross between a mullet and a pixie cut, Naomi's super-short haircut is a departure from the classic bob she previously had. The new look quickly became a fan favorite, with many viewers now drawing comparisons to Princess Diana's iconic haircut.

Unlike the royal's side-swept haircut, however, Naomi's haircut is slightly edgier featuring wispy blond bangs. From behind, her hair is also noticeably longer, with pieces of hair in varying lengths grazing the nape of her neck.

On Twitter, fans were quick to express their opinions about the cropped hairstyle. "Uhhh what the F*CK happened to Naomi Pierce? Where is the bob??? What is this mullet?!?!" one person wrote. In a separate tweet, the same Twitter user added, "First Chris Pine cut his hair, now Naomi Pierce. Please sir, the weapons, they're prosperin against me!"

One "Succession"-inspired fan account even coined a new term for Naomi's regal makeover: "princess diana-fication." Beyond the hair, Naomi's season four debut seems to be a full-blown nod to the late royal (See: her drop earrings, black sunglasses, and classy ensemble). "the dad sunglasses, one Twitter user said, "who is doing it like Naomi Pierce." Another account compared the look to Elizabeth James's aesthetic in "The Parent Trap."

Ahead, see Dexter-Jones rocking Naomi's new "mixie" haircut from all angles.

French manicures are the new neutral. Just take a look at Kylie Jenner's latest set. On March 27, the Kylie Cosmetics founder shared a mirror selfie on her Instagram Stories giving a glimpse at her white and beige nails and makeup-free face.

Proving that the manicure can be dressed up or down, Jenner was gym-ready in her video wearing a black sports bra and leggings. Her nails could be spotted on the hand holding her phone while the other hand was playing with her hair. The most surprising aspect of Jenner's manicure was nail shape and length. While the star usually wears extra-long extensions in a sharp stiletto shape, her french tips were short and square. In the following snaps, it appears that the beauty entrepreneur was on her way to an Alo Yoga event, which would explain the sporty outfit.

Compared to her sisters, Jenner typically leans more maximalist with her manicures but, in keeping with the resurgence of minimal beauty trends, has been toning it down as of late. That said, you can still count on the entire Kardashian-Jenner group to serve up plenty of beauty inspiration. Recently, Khloé Kardashian was spotted in red nails on vacation and Kourtney Kardashian wore a heart-shaped french manicure in similar cherry hue.

Ahead, take a closer look at Jenner's nails in her Instagram Stories mirror selfie.

Image Source: Getty/Axelle/Bauer-Griffin / Contributor

Dua Lipa, the reigning queen of a good manicure, is back with a new set of nails. The singer is currently on vacation in Jamaica, looking sun-kissed and fabulous while wearing an easy french manicure that seemed to set the tone for her tropical getaway.

Lipa's nails were filed into a rounded-oval shape and painted a translucent-pink shade with a white smile line along the tip. Despite being known for her love of nail art, she kept it simple this time, allowing the manicure to match all of her bright vacation looks.

The french manicure is a popular trend that has dominated social media and the red carpet alike. Spotted on people like Anne Hathaway and Selena Gomez, the original has birthed iterations like chrome, glazed-doughnut, and even shadow-french manicures. That said, it's safe to say the nail trend isn't leaving our collective psyches any time soon.

Lipa's version of the look is perfect for year-round wear - whether you're on vacation like she is or just want to look put together heading into the office. Add a personal touch to your version by switching up the nail shape or even adding some textured nail art. The manicure is so universal at this point, it feels like a neutral. Take a closer look at Lipa's nails below.

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• Nails.INC just launched its Mani Marker Easy Nail Art Pens.
• The quick-drying paint pens make DIYing nail art super easy.
• They come in six shades, ranging from black and white to bright colors.

I'm no stranger when it comes to paint pens - craft store paint pens, that is. I'm from a really artistic family (my grandmother was a watercolorist, my mother is a painter and potter, even my siblings are photographers and graphic designers). So growing up, I was surrounded by an abundance of art supplies, including the paint pen. What I remember most from my art-filled youth was reaching for anything but the paint pen. They smelled horrible, the color would bleed everywhere, and it would stain. Paint pens were kitchen-table-only craft in my house.

When I got wind of the new Nails.Inc Mani Marker Easy Nail Art Pens ($5 each), suffice it to say my interest was piqued. What can I say, I'm a basic nail art-loving millennial. I knew I needed to see if they were really as good as their claims, which include "a revolutionary nail innovation" and "turn your nails into the ultimate canvas." So were these nail art pens the secret to negative space designs and colorful french tips of my dreams, or were they destined to be like the messy paint pens of my childhood nightmares? Keep reading for my full, unfiltered review.

What to Know About the Nails.Inc Mani Marker Nail Art Pens

• The paint pens come in six shades and are available in sets of three or individually.
• They have a water-based formula that keeps the paint pen from drying out.
• It has a fine tip that makes creating intricate nail art designs really easy.
• They are quick-drying and will dry in just 45 seconds.

What I Like About About the Nails.Inc Mani Marker Nail Art Pens

Right when I pulled off the cap on the green pen and got a good look at the nib, all my apprehension was erased. The tip came to a fine point and was pretty firm (not like the soft, felt-tip pens I was picturing). The best part was, it stayed in that exact shape the entire time I was crafting my designs. I didn't have to worry about the tip flattening or fraying as I zoned out on my art - and zoned out is exactly what I did. The pen-shaped packaging was so much more comfy and steady to hold than the cap of a polish bottle, even with my non-dominant hand, so I could really let my Takashi Murakami flag fly (OK, not exactly Murakami, but I tried).

The second thing I noticed was how smoothly the polish flowed through the pen. I didn't need to re-pump to keep the paint going (more on that below), and it didn't pool up at the tip. It just came out really nicely and consistently, making it mess free. Plus, because the polish is water-based, the pens are meant to last longer without drying out. I haven't had them long enough to fully test this claim, but so far it's promising.

Can we also talk about the polish formula for a second? It was self-leveling, which felt like Facetune IRL and made my type A brain very happy; it was totally opaque with just one coat; but the real game-changer here was how fast it dried. Within 45 seconds, I was able to swipe on my clear topcoat with zero smears or smudges. Why isn't all polish like this? Nail brands, are you listening?

How to Use the Nails.Inc Mani Marker Nail Art Pens

The best part about these markers is that using them at home is simple. Here's how.

Step One: Get your Mani Marker ready. If you're using a pen for the first time, you'll need to press and hold the nib on a solid surface until the color runs through the tip. It only took me about 15 seconds. After that, you can just press the nib down quickly to reactivate as needed. BTW, I didn't need to do this once during my entire DIY manicure. The paint just kept flowing on its own.

Step Two: Apply a base coat first. The brand recommends laying down a base coat or a color to use as the base of your nail art. Personally, I love the clean, negative space look, so I went without and didn't have any issues with application or wear.

Step Three: Draw on your design of choice. This is where you can get creative and draw on whatever design you want. I went for an indie nail look with a little something different on each finger, but go wherever the inspiration leads you. While the formula is quick drying, I found that it didn't dry out as I was working, so I didn't feel rushed, but if you give the first layer about 60 seconds to try, you can go in with another color to create a more dimensional design. They layered really nicely on top of each other.

Step 4: Seal in your art with a top coat. The paint pens did leave behind a subtle shine, but the clear coat helped everything look more cohesive and finished.

What to Consider Before Trying the Nails.Inc Mani Marker Nail Art Pens

The only reason point against these pens for me is that I found the polish formula to be a little tricky to clean up. My go-to nail art trick is to keep a little acetone and a small brush on hand to erase any slip-ups. Usually mistakes wipe away on contact, but this polish formula required a little more elbow grease, especially the black shade, which stained my skin a little bit. That being said, any dark nail polish would do the same, and by the next morning after a day or normal hand washing, the staining was gone. All that I was left with was my stunningly beautiful nail art design . . . if I do say so myself.

Rating:

Image Source: Getty/Jacopo Raule / Contributor

If there is one thing that Doja Cat is going to do, it's turn out a look. The rapper posted a series of pictures on her Instagram Stories simultaneously doing three things: showing off her new cow skull tattoo, flashing her stunning aura nails, and most importantly, revealing new "Cruella"-inspired chunky highlights.

Doja Cat's hair was pulled back into a messy ponytail in each picture with face-framing layers hanging loosely around her face. The front section of her hair was dyed platinum blond while the rest remained black. As is tradition with the "Cruella" trend, the contrasting shades created a peek-a-boo effect. This new look is most likely a wig, given that Doja Cat shaved her head a few months ago, but we love the style on her all the same. The trend is perfect for the warmer months as it's typically worn on short hair or in an updo to show off the color-blocking technique. So, in the summer, not only would all eyes be on your new color, but you can get your hair out of your face - a win-win.

The "Cruella" trend can be worn on any hair type or texture (Kehlani has also been spotted in her own version), but enlisting the help of a professional is a must - especially if you are trying to achieve platinum blond. Chunky highlights are also an easy way to try a new color without dyeing your entire head - you can dial up your look with a bold, contrasting hue or use a complementary shade for a subtle shift.

Take a closer look at Doja Cat's new look for some inspiration.

Image Source: Instagram User @
dojacat

Image Source: Instagram User @
dojacat

Getting a tattoo is an exhilarating experience, whether you've been contemplating it for years or you just decided to get one on a whim. Either way, the last thing you want to do after going through the entire process is to ruin a tattoo with improper care. The best way to care for new ink is pretty simple: cleanse, heal, and moisturize. However, there are some caveats when it comes to what you can put on your new tattoo without causing irritation or premature fading. We rounded up the best tattoo aftercare products so you can heal your skin and show off your new ink ASAP.

The tattooed area will feel sensitive, and that's completely normal; just be gentle while cleansing, drying, and applying healing products to the affected area. To reduce your risk of infection, it's best to gently wash your tattoo with antibacterial soap at least twice a day in the weeks following. After washing your tattoo, gently apply a thin layer of ointment over it. Keyword: thin. Applying too much ointment can actually cause the initial scabs to come off prematurely, which could lead to discoloration or inconsistencies in the lines. During the initial healing process, you shouldn't apply lotion on the tattooed area. However, after about a week (or whenever your tattoo starts peeling), you can replace your ointment with gentle, hydrating, fragrance-free lotions.

Ahead, we found the best tattoo aftercare healing ointments, creams, lotions, and more to ensure your tattoo stays in pristine condition.

- Additional reporting by Kelsey Garcia

When I was a baby beauty editor - a plump-faced 22 year-old in my first role at a print magazine - another editor asked me why I used eye cream. "It's not like you need it yet," she said sardonically. And she was right, my undereyes were still unaffected by motherhood and aging, but even as a beauty-industry newbie, I knew the best skin-care routine was a preventative one.

Fast forward to today, I'm a 34 year-old mom-of-two who runs on sporadic sips of cold coffee and who still tries to pass her gray streaks of hair off as "blond highlights." No one is denying that I need eye cream now. The problem is, in all those years I haven't found one that I liked enough to commit to. Sure, I'll casually use one sometimes, but nothing that I've fallen in love with and, say, want to introduce to my mother.

I like a quick routine (no matter how many times I see Alix Earle "bake" her undereye, I don't have it in me), so I usually just do eye cream, a dab of concealer, bronzer, blush, and mascara and go. Then in a few hours there will be a nice smear of mascara making itself at home under my eyes. For me, a good eye cream is one that leaves my skin instantly brighter, but without the oily or tacky residue. That's where the Dr. Naomi Catfish Blurring Eye Cream ($85) comes in.

This 2023 POPSUGAR Beauty Awards winner is made up of dermatologist Naomi McCullum, MD's proprietary brightening blend and helps do it all. Keep reading to learn more about the formula itself and my unfiltered review and to see my before-and-after photos.

About the Dr. Naomi Catfish Blurring Eye Cream

• This product was formulated by cosmetic physician Naomi McCullum.
• It contains hyaluronic acid "filling spheres" to instantly blur your crow's feet and hydrate the delicate undereye skin.
• It's formulated with niacinamide, tiger grass extract, green tea, and aloe to target dark circles and puffiness.

What I Like About the Dr. Naomi Catfish Blurring Eye Cream

What I really like about the product is that it acts like a makeup/skin-care hybrid, effectively eliminating that second "concealer" step from my morning routine. (Seriously, one swipe and it subtly blurs fine lines and makes my dark circles infinitely less noticeable.) I also appreciate that the lightweight formula absorbs fast and doesn't require any rubbing, tugging, or drying and that it doesn't make my mascara bleed onto my skin.

How to Use the Dr. Naomi Catfish Blurring Eye Cream

Besides the instant blurring results, the best part about this product is how easy it is to use. I just use the pen-like applicator to apply a pea-size portion onto my ring finger. I then dab the product under my eye and just under my brow bone. Instantly, I notice my eyes look brighter and more awake. I then apply moisturizer/SPF and move right into bronzer and blush.

The brand recommends you use it morning and night, but since I use it mostly for its immediate cosmetic results, I prioritize it in my morning routine.

What to Consider With the Dr. Naomi Catfish Blurring Eye Cream

The truth is that no product is a miracle cure. Do I still have crow's feet? Yes. Do I still have crinkles under my eyes when I smile? You betcha. But I wasn't expecting this eye cream to act like Botox, and I used the product with realistic expectations. That said, I really do think it gives my eyes a "more awake" look that I haven't been able to find in a skin-care product until now.

Is the Dr. Naomi Catfish Blurring Eye Cream Worth the Splurge?

At the end of the day, the question is: would I bring one home for my mother? The answer is, absolutely. This is the perfect gateway eye cream for people of all ages. It covers all the major concerns, has quick results, and is easy to use. For $85, which might seem high, it's still on the more affordable side of the eye-cream market and does so much. In fact, it would be handy to keep at the bottom of your bag along with that extra tube of your favorite lip balm when you just need a quick pick-me-up on the go.

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Tinted moisturizer is one of our all-time favorite base makeup products. While no tinted moisturizer formula is the same, they tend to be more lightweight and breathable than most foundations and offer multipurpose benefits like hydration, a higher SPF factor, and a more natural-looking finish. Plus, there's a wide range of coverage options, from sheer, which subtly enhances your natural skin, to medium-to-full coverage options that'll satisfy makeup maximalists. Ahead, Sara Talias, a professional makeup artist, explains what tinted moisturizer is and how to choose the perfect formula for you.

What Is Tinted Moisturizer?

"Tinted moisturizer is a lightweight base that subtly corrects the skin and offers extra skin-loving benefits," says Talias. "Many tinted moisturizers contain SPF, which is a great option for daily wear, so you get sun protection and light coverage in one product." [Editor's note: You should still be wearing a layer of sunscreen underneath for optimal protection.] "Also, many tinted moisturizers boast radiance-boosting qualities for a glowy finish."

How to Choose the Perfect Tinted Moisturizer For You

"When choosing a tinted moisturizer, I recommend finding one with the perfect mix of benefits for your skin concerns," Talias says. Not to overwhelm you, but no tinted moisturizer is the same - some are full of hydrating ingredients to quench dry skin, others promote an ultra-dewy finish, and some have a high SPF factor to reinforce your sun protection. That said, the expert notes, "it's important to check the different properties of the tinted moisturizer" to ensure it's the right fit for you because not all will be. For example: "If your skin gets oily during the day, skip tinted moisturizer with extra radiance, as it will likely become too shiny," she says.

Another important factor to consider is coverage. Similar to foundation, they offer different coverage options, including sheer, light, medium, and though rarer, full. A sheer-to-light formula will enhance the natural appearance of your skin, whereas a medium-to-full coverage tinted moisturizer will also conceal. You'll also want to look out for the word "buildable," which means you can achieve more coverage as you layer the product. If you already have an idea of what you're looking for, you can skip to the one you're most interested in below to survey our favorites.

• Sheer Tinted Moisturizer
• Tinted Moisturizer With Light Coverage
• Tinted Moisturizer With Medium Coverage
• Tinted Moisturizer With Full Coverage

Prefer to consider all of your options? Keep scrolling to check out our complete guide to the best tinted moisturizers of 2023.

• Gel manicures are a convenient way to get longer wear out of a manicure.
• Gel nail polish can be used on natural nails, acrylics, or other extensions, but removal can be time consuming.
• Professional manicurists are sharing their tips for how to remove gel nails at home.

Whether you're someone who frequently visits the nail salon for manicures, or if you just get them once in a blue moon, there often comes a time when you need to remove gel polish at home. If you've never done it before, the process can be a little daunting. Unlike a basic manicure, gel manicures involve a special type of polish that is cured to the nail using a UV light. Gel polish doesn't typically chip, but the grow-out can look a little wonky if you wait too long to take it off.

If you aren't in a position to visit a salon, don't have the time, or you just want to know how to remove gel nails at home, don't worry - we've got you covered. Ahead, find everything to know about gel manicures, including how to remove a gel manicure easily and safely so you don't damage your nails.

What Is a Gel Manicure?

Although a gel manicure is similar to a basic manicure, instead of regular nail polish, gel nail polish is applied to the bare nail and cured under a UV lamp. If multiple layers of gel polish are applied, each layer needs to be cured under the UV light. There is no extra drying time after the nails cure under the UV light, which makes gel manicures both quick and convenient.

Still, gel manicures can only last for so long, so when life gets hectic, it can be hard to find time to squeeze in a removal appointment before you resort to just peeling the paint off altogether.

How Long Do Gel Nails Last?

Gel manicures can last anywhere from two to four weeks with the proper nail prep and care. To get the most out of your gel manicure, make sure you frequently lotion your nails, apply cuticle oil daily, and don't pick at the gel. Be gentle with your nails, and minimize your nails' exposure to hot water.

Potential Damage From Removing Gel Polish

You've probably already heard a million times on end that picking off your polish is a no-no, as tempting as it is, and we're not just telling you that for your health. According to celebrity nail artist Rita Remark, your nails can actually suffer from you picking off gel polish.

"The reason why manicurists stress this rule so frequently is because we can almost guarantee that you will be left with nail damage. This is because gels are formulated to bond much tighter to nails than traditional nail polish," she tells POPSUGAR. "It makes the manicure last much longer, but it requires a bit more patience to remove. I think it's a fair exchange."

How to Remove Gel Polish at Home

If you're in a time crunch or just can't get to a salon to get your polish removed, read ahead for a few polish-removal tips you can follow at home.

Image Source: Getty

• There are many different types of piercings to choose from.
• Three common categories include body, face, and ear piercings.
• This is a list of piercings available to you.

So you want to get a new piercing, but you're not exactly sure what type? There are a lot of options to choose from, depending on where you want it. Piercings are typically grouped into three main categories: ear piercings, face piercings, and body piercings. Popular choices for your ears include cartilage, lobe, and tragus piercings, to name just a few, while body piercings include the belly button and your nipples. Common face piercings range from nose to eyebrow, lip, and tongue - and there's even more where those come from.

Hands down the most common piercing location is the ear. Between the lobe and cartilage, there are countless different types of ear-piercing placements you can experiment with to create your very own personalized "ear-scape." The hardest part is just knowing the ear-piercing names. Stacking multiple piercings and even grouping them together - ever heard of constellation piercings? - makes it easy to create a unique look.

To learn about all of the different types of piercings out there, keep scrolling.

Types of Ear Piercings

Helix Piercing
A helix piercing is a type of cartilage ear piercing that falls on the outer rim of the ear. Within the helix piercing family, there are a few variations: standard helix piercing (a normal cartilage piercing), forward helix piercing (on the outer cartilage closest to the face), standard industrial piercing (two cartilage piercings connected with a single bar), and double helix piercing (multiple stacked on top of each other).

Tragus Piercing
A tragus ear piercing involves the inner piece of cartilage closest to your face, which serves to protect the ear canal.

Conch Piercing
The conch ear piercing is a celebrity favorite. It goes through the inner back part of your ear and is forward facing so it's easily visible.

Rook Piercing
A rook ear piercing goes through the antihelix on the ear, which is the folded piece of cartilage in the inner ear that sits just above the tragus.

Snug Piercing
A snug ear piercing is also known as an anti-helix piercing. It connects the helix to the conch with a bar or ring.

Daith Piercing
A daith piercing is yet another type of ear piercing. It's the small strip of cartilage where the top of the ear connects to the inner ear.

Industrial Piercing
As previously mentioned, an industrial ear piercing is a type of cartilage piercing. It consists of two separate piercings, usually done on either side of the upper cartilage, and connected with a barbell.

Orbital Piercing
An orbital ear piercing is made up of two or more holes connected by a ring. It can be done virtually anywhere on the ear like the helix, lobe, or conch.

Anti-Tragus Piercing
An anti-tragus piercing falls below where a snug piercing sits and above the lobe. It usually features a ring or barbell.

Image Source: Getty / Matthew Sperzel

Types of Mouth and Lip Piercings

Tongue Piercing
Traditional tongue piercings involve a single bar through the center of the tongue toward the tip. There are also different variations of this piecing, including traditional, web, snake eyes, venom, and double tongue.

Smiley Piercing
A smiley piercing, aka frenulum piercing, is a type of lip piercing, except instead of going through the outer part of the lip, it goes through your frenulum, which is the small piece of connective skin between your upper lip and gum. It's often done with a hoop or ring that hangs down and is visible when you smile (hence the name).

Snake-Bite Piercing
Snake bites are a type of lip piercing. It involves two studs on either side of the bottom lip, which mimic the look of a snake bite.

Monroe Piercing
The Monroe piercing got its name from Marilyn Monroe. Though the actor didn't have a body piercing, she did have an iconic mole right above her upper lip on the left side of her face. This piercing re-creates that detail but with a small stud.

Spider-Bite Piercing
A spider-bite piercing is a lip piercing that involves two separate holes placed immediately next to each other to mimic the look of a spider bite. It can be done on the upper or lower lip.

Labret Piercing
A labret piercing falls in the lip category. Its location is just below the bottom lip and usually involves a stud.

Dahlia Piercings
A Dahlia piercing is two separate holes on either side of the mouth. Typically done with studs, the jewelry sits right at the corners of the mouth.

Medusa Piercing
A Medusa piercing is a lip piercing that involves a single stud through the upper lip right above your Cupid's bow. It goes through the part of the lip that's called the philtrum.

Types of Eyebrow Piercings

Eyebrow Piercing
As the name suggests, eyebrow piercings go on your eyebrows, typically toward the outer end or tail of the brow. There are different locations and styles to choose from: traditional vertical, horizontal, nonstandard positions, multiples, and anti-eyebrow piercing.

Types of Nose Piercings

Traditional Nose Piercing
A traditional nose piercing features a stud on the side of your nose, either on the left or right nostril. It usually sits in the natural dip where the nostril connects to the upper part of the nose.

Septum Piercing
A septum piercing is a type of nose piercing. Instead of going through the side of your nostril, you pierce your septum, the thin tissue connecting your two nostrils, usually with a ring or hoop.

Types of Body Piercings

Dermal Piercing
Dermal piercings aren't as much about location as they are a type. Dermals, also known as "surface anchors," are inserted under the skin and don't have an entrance/ exit point. They can be on the back of the neck, cheek, chest, or lower back, to name a few spots.

Navel or Belly-Button Piercing
Belly-button or navel piercings have risen in popularity again in recent years. It involves getting a bar or ring through either the top or bottom surrounding skin.

Prince Albert Piercing
A Prince Albert piercing is a type of penis piercing that involves a barbell through the head of the genital.

Nipple Piercing
Nipple piercings originally became more mainstream in the '90s, but they're back (along with a handful of other '90s beauty trends). The body piercing involves getting one or both nipples pierced with a bar or ring.

Genital Piercings
There are many different types of genital or labia piercings. Some popular ones include the vertical clitoral hood, Christina piercing, Princess Diana piercing, and triangle piercing.

Image Source: Getty/wsfurlan

• There's a debate on TikTok about the differences between relaxers and texture releases.
• Relaxers and texture releases are two treatments that straighten hair.
• A professional hairstylist breaks down what each treatment is, how long they last, and their cost and results.

If your TikTok page is also hyper-curated to feature all things beauty, then you may have come across a video from user Nellie Robert. In the clip, which details her experience getting a texture release and has now amassed more than 1.4 million views, Robert shows users the results of the treatment and cut, which resulted in her hair being bone straight and styled in a bob.

While the treatment results were undeniably fantastic, the video blew up with commentators questioning why she called the treatment a texture release and not a relaxer. User after user asked Robert if she misspoke, called the treatment a rebranded relaxer, and some even asked outright what a texture release is. So what exactly is a texture release?

"A texture release is essentially a smoothing system that has been specifically formulated for Afro hair types to achieve a more defined, elongated curl pattern," editorial hairstylist Martika Carter tells POPSUGAR. "This treatment makes the hair easier to manage without chemically straightening it."

As it turns out, there is an actual difference between texture releases and relaxers. So we asked Carter to break down everything you should know about the differences between the two hair treatments, as well as the best candidates for each.

Difference Between Relaxers and Texture Releases

Like texture releases, relaxers are a treatment that can straighten the hair. The main differences between the two, however, are how long the results last as well as the techniques that each require. "A texture release is semi-permanent and only lasts about eight to 12 weeks," Carter says. "The relaxer, on the other hand, contains chemicals that permanently straighten the hair, making the process irreversible."

Additionally, texture releases use the heat from a flat iron alongside heat-activated amino acids to straighten the hair. Relaxers rely on a wholly chemical process and straighten curls and coils by breaking down the bonds within the natural hair shaft.

Do the Results of a Texture Release vs. a Relaxer Look Different?

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As for whether each treatment bears the same results, the answer is both yes and no. Texture releases and relaxers do straighten the hair, but it's actually in the feel of the hair that you can really tell the difference.

Whereas the former will make your hair feel similar to when it is silk pressed, you'll notice a significant difference with the latter. "The end results of a relaxer tend to leave the hair bone straight and feeling a lot finer," Carter says. "This is due to the fact that its natural pattern has been broken down by the chemicals in the relaxer." All the types of relaxers available on the market - lye, low lye, no lye, and thio relaxers - contain either sodium hydroxide or calcium hydroxide. These chemicals aid in stripping the hair's natural texture and are the reason it may feel different post-treatment.

How Much Do Texture Releases and Relaxers Cost?

The cost of any service is dependent on where you live as well as the experience level of your stylist, amongst a host of other factors. In New York City, where Carter is based, a texture release service typically starts from $275 and goes up depending on the length and density of your hair. Based on the same factors, relaxers start at $150.

Which Is Better: Texture Release or Relaxer?

When it comes to figuring out which treatment may be best for you, Carter has some tips. "I'd only recommend relaxers to be used by individuals with more coily and resistant textures," she says. "Your hair will be dense enough to be broken down while still maintaining a full, healthy look."

On the other hand, while they can work for everyone, texture releases may be better for people with slightly finer hair textures. "I never recommend relaxers to clients with fine hair textures, because this will make the hair even finer and more prone to breakage and hair loss," Carter says.

Now that you know the differences between texture releases and relaxers, you can be fully aware of your options should you want to get either treatment done. And if you are interested in either of them, be sure to book a consultation with your hairstylist before settling on an option. Whatever you decide, healthy hair should always be your stylist's priority - and any good stylist knows that what works on one person may not necessarily work on another.

Florence Pugh is no stranger to the big screen. The actor has become one of the buzziest names of the moment, known for her roles in Hollywood's biggest dramas. Last year, she took the world by storm as a 1950s housewife, Alice, in the psychological thriller "Don't Worry Darling." And now, she stars as Allison, a pharmaceuticals rep turned opioid addict, in Zach Braff's newly released film, "A Good Person." In the wake of an unimaginable tragedy in which she accidentally crashes her car, killing her fiancé's sister and husband, the 20-something finds herself in the bathroom with scissors and a bad YouTube tutorial, intent on chopping off her long hair. And she does, without hesitation and arguably zero expert guidance, revealing a pixie.

Pugh ended up cutting her real hair for the standout scene, which wasn't initially the plan. "I thought we were going to get a custom-made wig," Robert Lugo, head of the movie's hair department, tells POPSUGAR. That's likely what viewers think they're seeing when Allison's long strands hit the bathroom floor eight minutes into the film.

Pugh's commitment to chopping her hair stemmed from a place of authenticity. "For me, whenever I was particularly low as a teenager, I would do lots of quick fixes," she tells USA Today. "I would buy things like nail kits or scissors and go onto YouTube and find out how to do it. I was just looking in any direction but the thing that was making me sad." That's precisely why she was insistent on ditching the wig, Lugo says. She was like, 'No, we're chopping my hair."

Pugh used wigs to practice the scene before the official take to perfect the lighting and the positioning of the cameras. When it was time to roll and Pugh started to hack at her hair, the pro remarkably "wasn't nervous," according to Lugo. Luckily for everyone involved, the expectations were low. "It was supposed to be a f*cked-up haircut, so I thought, the more messed up, the better," he says.

In "A Good Person," Pugh's hair evolution is jarring. When her mom gets home and gasps at her handiwork, Allison says, "It's makeover Monday," to which her mom replies, "It's Friday." Throughout the film, her hairstyling (or lack of) mirrors her internal struggle. At her worst, Allison's hair looks sweaty, piecey, and unwashed, most perfectly epitomized when she tries (to no avail) to pick up a rejected opioid prescription at the drugstore but ends up stealing hair barrettes instead.

For Lugo, Pugh's hair evolution meant putting himself in the main character's shoes and getting creative with his product lineup typically reserved for glamorous hairstyles. "I used Kevin Murphy Shimmer Shine to give her hair a shiny look for her sweaty scenes, plus a lot of water, paste, and Unite Texturiza Texturizing Spray," Lugo says. "I would use that to emphasize those short pieces when she was in her most traumatic state."

As she starts to work through her trauma, she becomes more mindful of her hair. When she begins attending AA meetings, "her hair starts to look smoother and nicer," Lugo says. It looks more intentionally styled to communicate that she's taken a step forward in her healing journey.

It's also around that time that Allison is introduced to Ryan, the teenage daughter of the couple involved in the accident whose hair transformation is equally notable. We see her transition from wearing predominantly tight braids in the wake of her parents' death to her natural curls at the end of the film, one year after the tragedy.

"Ryan's hair evolution was Zach's idea," Lugo says. "He wanted her to look more like herself . . . more natural and free - not like the caged person she had become." Without giving away too much, Allison and Ryan ultimately find solace post-tragedy, as reflected by their respective hairstyles in the film's final scene.