Park is arguably the hottest MUA right now, and has gone viral online for creating looks on the likes of  Zoë Kravitz, Greta Lee, Lily-Rose Depp, Kaia Gerber, Charli XCX, Mia Goth and Hailey Bieber. The RUSSH office basically shut down when those photos of Margaret Qualley were posted. Was it the greatest understated makeup look of all time? Potentially.

A post shared by Nina Park (@ninapark)

Park’s vibe is sexy, undone glamour — lines are soft, edges are smudged, skin is glistening and eyes are subtle but smouldering. I love the way you can’t really single out a specific product or colour – it just all melts into one beautiful, harmonious look. As far as I’m concerned, it’s art.

She also does a killer lip combo; plump, pillowy, contoured but never harsh. The method is a point of serious intrigue – how does she do it? Park is obviously a professional, but that doesn’t mean we can’t try to emulate it at home. Plus, between TikTok and Park’s Instagram, a lot of the information is actually readily available to us. How lucky are we to be alive in the information age.

A post shared by Nina Park (@ninapark)

A post shared by Nina Park (@ninapark)

Because I love a bit of investigative journalism, I’ve gathered all the available intel – include Park’s favourite products – below:

Who is Nina Park?

First, some context. Park is a makeup artist based in New York City known predominantly for celebrity beauty looks. She grew up in Chicago and, according to her website, was obsessed with fashion magazines and would often reshape model lips with an ink pen. She trained at L’école de Maquillage Fleurimon in Paris before moving to NYC, assisting industry greats like Peter Philips (who currently helms Dior Beauty) and Diane Kendal.

Park is a CHANEL artist, so frequently uses CHANEL products in her work. It’s often reported that, because of her Korean heritage, she’s largely inspired by K-beauty techniques as well (immaculate skin, imperceptible blending and blurred edges).

A post shared by Nina Park (@ninapark)

What’s the Nina Park lip combo method?

Okay, the infamous Nina Park lip. The faces of her clients obviously have a lot to do with it, but Park artfully uses a mix of shading and contouring in various tones to create the illusion of full, plush lips that are, above anything else, very natural looking.

@immbunny posted a great tutorial on TikTok, layering a soft matte lipstick, a cool toned lip liner (she uses RHODE Flex in the video), before patting a blush-y berry colour in the centre of the lip:

The signature Nina Park lip technique. Full natural lips with a blurred lip line then redefined with a cool toned lip liner #greenscreen #miagoth #kaiagerber #gretalee

♬ original sound – immbunny

Park also posted a video showing the CHANEL combination she uses on Lily-Rose Depp (Lip Pencil in Nude Brun and Dark Brown, Le Rouge Duo in Merry Rose, which has been discontinued but Darling Pink is allegedly the closest match, plus Rouge Coco Baume in Blushing Pink).

The perfect lip combo on Lily-Rose. Le Crayon Lèvres in Nude Brun, Brun Foncé Le Rouge Duo Ultra Tenue in Merry Rose Rouge Coco Baume Shine in Blushing Pink @chanel.beauty #welovecoco

♬ original sound – Nina Park

The same lip combo in action, here:

A post shared by Jess Clements-Huyck (@jessicaclements)

I also love this example with Mia Goth using a glassy lip gloss with a cool-toned grey eyeshadow stick in lieu of a lip liner.

A post shared by Nina Park (@ninapark)

Shop the edit:

CHANEL Beauty Rouge Coco Flash Lipstick in Boy

CHANEL Beauty Lip Pencil in Nude Brun

CHANEL Beauty Lip Pencil in Brun Foncé

CHANEL Beauty Le Rouge Duo in Darling Pink

Chanel Beauty Rouge Coco Baume in Blushing Pink

Clio Crystal Glam Tint in Vanilla Apple

Images: @ninapark

The post The exact beauty science behind a Nina Park lip combo appeared first on RUSSH.

Like most trends, this one is cyclical. Using gold in skincare is not a new invention. In ancient Egypt, gold masks where long used as a complexion remedy. It was an apparent favourite of Cleopatra. There’s also evidence to show that gold was used in ancient China to treat scarring and skin ulcers. It’s now reemerged as a trend in Western society as Western science has shown that gold does actually have some strong skincare benefits. In particular, its ability to increase the absorption of other active ingredients into the deeper layers of the skin.

“The science is encouraging,” says Vanessa Gray Lyndon, Founder Vanessa Megan Skincare. As an organic and natural skincare brand, Vanessa Megan Skincare has turned to natural ingredients like gold for its topical benefits.

“There’s also ongoing research into gold nanoparticles helping carry ingredients deeper and calm the skin, with the usual caveat that size, coating and proper cosmeticgrade sourcing really matter,” she said.

Below, Gray dives into gold’s application in skincare. How is compares to other active ingredients and exactly why it’s slowly becoming such a favourite ingredient across cosmetic formulations.

Gold has been used in beauty rituals for centuries. How it first became associated with skincare?

Gold’s beauty story started with symbolism and spectacle—think Cleopatra myths, Edoperiod rituals and European courts using gold foils and balms for glow and “preservation.” It was more ritual than science back then.

Today, it shows up in two main ways: as pure 24k leaf or flakes you press over a serum for instant radiance and a soothing, inert finish, and as colloidal or nanosized gold mixed into serums and creams. The modern take is practical as well as pretty—gold is stable, plays nicely with other actives, and gives that softfocus glow. There’s also ongoing research into gold nanoparticles helping carry ingredients deeper and calm the skin, with the usual caveat that size, coating and proper cosmeticgrade sourcing really matter.

What does the scientific evidence currently say about gold’s efficacy in skincare?

The science is encouraging. Smaller clinical and lab studies show antioxidant and calming effects, with promising work on colloidal and nano gold helping deliver other actives. Big, longterm trials for gold alone are still coming, but the everyday wins—instant glow, smoother feel, and supportive benefits alongside vitamin C, peptides and hydrators—are solid.

We added gold into the Vanessa Megan range because we saw consistent results: calmer skin, better makeup laydown, and that immediate radiance. Pure, Europeansourced 24k gold is inert and gentle, so it layers seamlessly. We use it as a smart booster—clean, cosmeticgrade, and designed to elevate your routine without fuss.

What are the primary skin concerns that gold is said to address?

The first and most noticeable benefits of our 25k Gold Leaf Sheets are instant radiance via light reflection, visible calming of redness thanks to its inert nature, and supportive benefits for tone and firmness over time when used within a solid routine. It also helps makeup sit more smoothly after application.

How does gold compare to more traditional actives like vitamin C, retinol, or hyaluronic acid in terms of results?

It’s a supportive co-star rather than a replacement. Vitamin C, retinoids and acids have stronger evidence for pigmentation, collagen and texture; hyaluronic acid is a proven hydrator. Gold adds sensorial appeal, mild antioxidant and calming effects, and immediate glow.

A post shared by Mireya Rios (@mireyarios)

Are there particular forms of gold that are more effective or safer for topical use?

Pure 24k leaf/flakes are inert and generally well tolerated when layered over serums or oils. Colloidal gold and well engineered nanoparticles can integrate into formulas and may aid delivery, but safety and performance depend on particle size, coating and purity. Always look for cosmetic or food-grade certification; avoid imitation “gold” made from brass alloys.

What makes gold an attractive ingredient for formulators compared to other luxury skincare actives?

It’s stable, nonreactive and instantly signals luxury without added fragrance or colour. It improves spreadability, encourages massage, plays well with mainstream actives (vitamin C, niacinamide, peptides, ceramides) and delivers both theatre and a gentle functional boost.

The post Why is everyone massaging gold leaf into their faces? appeared first on RUSSH.

If the polka dot nail trend is speaking to you, we’ve curated some of the best iterations and reference shots for your viewing pleasure, below.

Monochrome

Leave it to dream girl Dua to inspire a wave of black and white polka dot manicures. Note the ring finger feature nail — perfection.

Lemon Yellow Glaze

It would be remiss to talk about nail trends and not mention Hailey Bieber, the woman who single-handedly invented glazed donut nails (alongside her long time nail artist, Zola Ganzorigt). Her take on the polka dot trend is a summer-inspired lemon yellow, in line with her Rhode ‘Lemontini’ Peptide Lip Tint drop.

A post shared by Zola Ganzorigt (@nailsbyzola)

A post shared by Zola Ganzorigt (@nailsbyzola)

Embellished

Zola also tends to the nails of Sabrina Carpenter, and created this sheer nude with diamanté polka dots. Very bridal adjacent.

A post shared by Zola Ganzorigt (@nailsbyzola)

A post shared by Zola Ganzorigt (@nailsbyzola)

Chrome

If you prefer an edgier approach, this chrome polka dot manicure is a great reference. You could even try it on a black base coat for additional drama.

A post shared by The GelBottle Inc (@the_gelbottle_inc)

Inverted Colour

If you’re into bright colours or more of a statement manicure moment, try an inverted colour palette on differing hands. Combination ideas include chocolate brown and blue, pink and burgundy, or mint green and red.

A post shared by JASMIN (@basecoatstories)

Animal Print

Animal print polka dot is an easy way to hit two trends with one manicure. The organic, imperfect pattern gives it an understated finish.

A post shared by Betina R. Goldstein (@betina_goldstein)

Minimalism

If you’re not sold on nail art and just want to dip a toe in, try this minimalist take on polka dots. Black on a clean nail is simple but striking.

A post shared by Alicia Torello (@aliciatnails)

Aura Polka Dots

Channel good energy with an aura-inspired polka dot manicure complete with an ombre base and contrasting coloured spots.

A post shared by Trophy Wife Nail Art (@trophywifenailart)

Need help finding a nail artist to execute your vision? Read our guide to the best nail salons in Sydney.

Images: One and two.

The post 8 perfect ideas to try out the polka dot nail trend appeared first on RUSSH.

But more and more, chebula is popping up in skincare formulations as Western science catches on to its restorative and antioxidant properties. In fact, there is evidence that this ingredient can work just as powerfully as compounds like vitamin C, yet without the potential irritation.

Curious to know more? Below, we connected with Tracey Beeby, the global education ambassador for Ultraceuticals who explained in expert detail why to use chebula in your skincare routine.

What is chebula?

Chebula is a fruit from the terminalia chebula tree. To those in India, Tibet and Nepal, the berry is informally known as the ‘King of Medicine’. What does it do to live up to this bold title? “It’s been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine,” says Beeby. “Chebula is multi-functional. It’s known as one of nature’s most potent anti-glycation and anti-inflammatory antioxidants.”

But in the context of skincare, chebula refers to the extracts taken from the flesh of the fruit. This can be used to formulate particular kinds of products like moisturisers and serums. “Chebula is rich in polyphenols and tannins—compounds that help neutralise free radicals, reduce visible signs of ageing, and defend against oxidative stress. “

So, what are the skincare benefits of chebula?

Since this ingredient is a powerful antioxidant, it combats free-radical damage to the skin. Free-radical damage (or oxidative stress) is one of the biggest causes of premature ageing. In this way chebula helps preserve the quality and integrity of the skin and can slow down the visible signs of ageing from appearing prematurely. Plus, you get all the moisturisation and antioxidant luminosity effects too.

“Its natural brightening properties help fade hyperpigmentation and promote a more even, radiant complexion,” says Beeby.

The other major benefit of using chebula in skincare, it defends against glycation – a process where sugars attach to proteins, contributing to chronic disease and ageing. “It is found to break collagen cross-links and provide glycation-reversing activity,” says Beeby.

It’s gentler than vitamin C

Since it is an antioxidant, chebula works extremely well when used in tandem with vitamin C – another antioxidant. “Chebula offers a unique blend of skin-brightening and protective benefits that elevate the overall performance of Vitamin C,” says Beeby. As a result, finding a serum with both can have added benefits and amp up your skincare routine.

But it can also be used without and instead of vitamin C. It is common for some skin types to be intolerant to vitamin C – triggering roughness, texture and breakouts in some people. Chebula however is far better tolerated.

“Unlike some antioxidants that may irritate the skin, Chebula is known for its calming and soothing properties,” says Beeby.

The post What is chebula and should I include it in my skincare routine? appeared first on RUSSH.

What is a ‘lob’?

You need only look to the growing list of celebrities converting to the lob to understand this hairstyle’s appeal. Typically hitting just above the shoulders, the lob allows for more length and styling options than a traditional bob (which is usually cut to chin-length), while still offering the chic, edgy vibe of a shorter cut.

This in-between length means you have more space to experiment with your hairstyle, whether that be a sleek up-do, or down tousled waves. The cut can also be customised with layers or a blunt finish, depending on personal preference and face shape.

The lob is also loved by many for it’s low maintenance appeal. As anyone has dabbled in a shorter bob will know, the style takes plenty of frequent (and expensive) salon visits to maintain the length. A long bob, on the other hand, can easily reach collarbone length before needing a touch up. It’s also a great length to experiment with if you’re thinking of transitioning from long locks to a fully-fledged bob. And, if you do eventually decide to make the chop, you’re left with fresh, healthy hair to play with.

Beyond infrequent salon visits, the long bob has all the benefits of styling a shorter hairstyle: quicker drying time, and less products required to create natural movement and lived-in texture.

How to ask your stylist to cut a long bob

It can be daunting transitioning to shorter hair, which is why it helps to know exactly what you’re after before sitting down in your hairdresser’s chair. A reference photo can be a helpful starting point, however you’ll need to be realistic about how your own hair texture matches up to your muse. Tight curls won’t ever look the same as Hailey Bieber’s sleek lob, and vice versa.

When it comes to a long bob, the main things to consider are exactly where you’d like your chop to sit, and whether you’d prefer your ‘do all one length or with layers. The former will give a sharper, thicker cut, while the latter will give texture and movement to your look.

Our favourite lob inspiration photos

Now that you’re well-versed in exactly what a lob is, it’s time for the fun part. From Kendall Jenner to Saoirse Ronan, here are our the chicest long bobs to date, courtesy of our favourite A-listers.

A post shared by Gracie Abrams (@gracieabrams)

A post shared by Maude Apatow (@maudeapatow)

A post shared by Sofia Richie Grainge (@sofiagrainge)

A post shared by Kendall (@kendalljenner)

A post shared by danielle goldberg (@daniellegoldberg)

A post shared by Gigi Hadid (@gigihadid)

A post shared by Jill Kortleve (@jilla.tequila)

A post shared by Salomé Mory (@salome.mory)

A post shared by elsa (@hoskelsa)

A post shared by Zendaya (@zendaya)

A post shared by LAURA HARRIER (@lauraharrier)

A post shared by Alexa Chung (@alexachung)

A post shared by Ayo Edebiri (@ayoedebiri)

Feature image: one, two, three.

The post Why the long bob is still the ultimate low-maintenance hairstyle appeared first on RUSSH.

Komorowski was enlisted with getting Elordi ready for the Toronto International Film Festival, where his latest project, Frankenstein, premiered. Dressed in a boxy navy suit by Bottega Veneta, Elordi wore his hair (which is slightly longer at the moment) tousled, his skin gleaming, and his smile disarming (as always). Whether you’re simply curious about what it takes to look that good, or perhaps want to steal a few tips and tricks for your boyfriend, these are the exact products behind Elordi’s signature look, below.

Circa 1970 Beauty Face Oil

Komorowski actually developed this product herself. It’s billed as multi-tasking formula designed to hydrate, smooth, and revive the skin in one step. The key ingredient is bakuchiol, a plant-derived alternative to retinol, which is said to work its magic by improving the skin’s texture and tone.

La Mer Crème de la Mer

Komorowski has previously revealed that this rich moisturiser by la Mer is her go-to when clients need a little more hydration. Speaking to New Beauty, she said, “If the skin needs a little bit more spot nourishment, I love this. I get asked a lot for this cream by clients; they love how nourishing it is.”

111Skin Celestial Black Diamond Eye Mask 8 Pack

Turns out, Jacob really is just like us. Komorowski told New Beauty that lots of her male clients enjoy the ritual of an under-eye mask when getting ready for a big event. Eye masks really do liven up the under-eye area and make it a little brighter, which is something men usually struggle with,” she explained.

La Mer The Lip Balm

Ah, the lips. Elordi’s secret weapon reportedly also comes from la Mer. We’ll take 10.

The post Want to look like Jacob Elordi? These are the exact skincare products you’ll need appeared first on RUSSH.

But despite it’s well-documented perfection, Ryan Murphy’s latest TV venture – set to follow the love story of John F. Kennedy Jr. and Carolyn Bessette – seems to have missed the mark. Actor Sarah Pidgeon’s transformation into Carolyn has been met with heated debate online, with fans quick to critique not only the wardrobe choices, but the hair transformation. “That hair is nothing close to the bright, shiny low/high lighted hair she had…” said one commenter on Murphy’s Instagram post. “This hair is dry, brittle, platinum, and it washes her out. CBK had warm blonde hair that made her not look like a corpse,” said another.

Bessette’s own colourist even joined the debate, Brad Johns, famed for creating Carolyn’s still-talked-about 90s blonde (he also counted Kate Moss, Christy Turlington and Cindy Sherman as clients). “No one would believe that Carolyn in the ’90s would ever have that colour from me. It’s too 2024,” Johns said in response to the images. “We worked really hard to get right,” he continued. “I went in and put the highlight chunks in three foils around the front of her face, and then two underneath for when she wore her hair up.”

A post shared by flwhrs (@flwhrs)

A post shared by HISTORY (@history)

A post shared by 90s Allure (@90sallure)

So, how do you get it?

The key is in the tone. A Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy blonde was never brassy, and it certainly wasn’t bright. Instead, it’s what colourists now refer to as a “neutral-warm” blonde: buttery without leaning too golden, and grounded by beige lowlights that give it dimension and depth. The goal isn’t to look highlighted, but illuminated. Johns described dying her naturally light brown hair a “toffee” colour, before going in with his signature chunking technique.

Achieving it starts with restraint. Over-lightening can strip the colour of its nuance. Ask your colourist for a root-shadowed blonde that allows for natural depth at the base, with hand-painted highlights woven subtly through the mid-lengths and ends. The best Bessette blondes are low-maintenance, yet high-impact – more tone-on-tone than contrast-heavy.

Equally important is the gloss. Carolyn’s hair never looked fried or over-processed. A demi-permanent glaze every six weeks will keep the tone cool-but-not-ashy and add that reflective sheen that reads expensive. Think silk rather than straw.

And then there’s the cut. Carloyn’s hair was rarely overstyled – usually worn in a middle part, either tucked behind the ears or tied back into a sleek chignon. A one-length or lightly layered cut helps maintain thickness and integrity, especially when lightening.

At home, maintenance means care without fuss. We’d recommend using a sulphate-free shampoo, a nourishing mask once a week, and a purple-toned treatment only when brass threatens. And don’t forget the leave-in – the best blondes are hydrated ones.

A post shared by QUE HAIR SALON SYDNEY (@quecolour)

A post shared by WU+MOBERG | HIGH END SALON (@wumoberg)

A post shared by Geelong hairdresser – ASHLEA SIMMONS (@ashleasimmonshair)

Products to shop for a healthy blonde hue

Kérastase Gloss Absolu Glaze Drops Hair Oil

Christophe Robin Baby Blonde Shampoo

Gisou Honey Gloss Ceramide Therapy Hair Mask

The post How to get Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy’s unfussy blonde appeared first on RUSSH.

For those unfamiliar with the significance of a rising sign, allow us to catch you up. Unlike your Sun sign — which is most commonly referred to when reading your horoscope —  your rising sign is a secondary component of your astrological profile. Your rising sign reflects how others perceive you, and it can also show how you present yourself to the world. It’s determined by the sign that was rising on the eastern horizon at the exact time of your birth. For example, if your sun sign is Virgo, but your rising sign is Leo, you might appear more confident and outgoing to others than your serious Virgo nature might suggest.

Following this logic, the connection between your rising sign and your makeup routine has become quite a thing in the world of astrology and beauty. The idea is straightforward: your rising sign can influence how you express yourself, including through things like makeup. So, people might think your rising sign can help guide the types of looks you might feel more drawn to or that align with your true self.

“Virgos value cleanliness and feeling put together, so we’re starting off with skin prep,” one TikTok user explained in her Virgo rising makeup tutorial. “Virgos are very natural, so less is definitely more.”

Want to know how to nail your makeup routine for your rising sign? We’re breaking it down, below.

Aries Rising

Aries love to stand out, so go for strong, statement looks, like bold red lips or a dramatic eyeliner. While some signs might lean more towards soft, sheer formulations, high-impact products are key to evoking Aries fiery, daring nature through makeup.

Taurus Rising

Less is more when it comes to Taurus’ soft, sensual vibe, so embrace natural products in earthy tones. Go for a dewy foundation, warm eyeshadows (like browns and bronzes), and a gentle rosy lip. Taurus risings also love comfort, so luxurious-feeling products like creamy blushes or lipsticks will work well here.

Gemini Rising

Gemini’s love to have fun, so get creative with your products. Gemini risings can pull off just about any look, so have fun experimenting with colour and texture. A pop of graphic eyeliner or a dual-tone eyeshadow will give fresh, lively vibes, and a high-shine lip gloss adds to that youthful energy.

Cancer Rising

Embrace your feminine side with soft, natural products. Use baby pinks, mauves, and peaches for eyeshadows and blushes, and enhance your natural lip colour with a swipe of balm or a lip tint. Finish the look with a subtle shimmer on your high points to enhance your glow without being too bold.

Leo Rising

Leo risings, this is your time to shine. Start by amping up your skin with a luminous base, before honing in on the eyes: a bold cat-eye and thick lashes can help make a dramatic statement. On the lips, think deep berry red and, for eyeshadow, shimmering tones are perfect to make you look like the star you are.

Virgo Rising

Like most things in life, Virgo risings prefer things neat and orderly — including their makeup products. Perfect your base with rich, skin-loving products, and a subtle skin tint. For eye makeup, soft browns and taupes that enhance your natural shape will keep your look fresh, while a natural lip colour is the perfect balance.

Libra Rising

Libra risings love symmetry and harmony, so your makeup should reflect that. Opt for classic beauty markers: you can never go wrong with a timeless red lip, while light contouring and soft highlighter help accentuate your natural beauty.

Scorpio Rising

If you’re a Scorpio rising, you likely gravitate to beauty looks that lean a little sultrier. Embrace this side of your personality, by trying a smokey eye in darker shades like charcoal or mauve. Rich, pigmented lip colours like deep reds, plums, or even browns can enhance your powerful presence. Don’t forget high-impact lashes for that seductive vibe.

Sagittarius Rising

Light, bright and natural is the agenda for Sagittarius Rising. Go for a fresh, natural look with a bit of brightness and fun. A glowing complexion with a subtle bronzer will give you that sun-kissed, adventurous vibe. Opt for peachy or coral tones on your cheeks and lips. For eyes, something like a soft, warm eyeshadow and light mascara will keep things light and breezy.

Capricorn Rising

Much like their work ethic, Capricorn risings tend to favour a more polished, professional look when it comes to makeup. Go for a matte foundation for a flawless finish, along with neutral tones for eyeshadows and a soft contour to enhance your natural bone structure. On the lips, keep things chic and low-fuss with a lip tint that will last all day.

Aquarius Rising

Like most things in life, Aquarius risings love to push the boundaries with their look. Play with unconventional colours—like bright blues, brat green, or chrome—for eyeshadow or eyeliner. Make space for experimentation by keeping your skin fresh and dewy, to really let the details shine.

Pisces Rising

The eternal dreamers of the zodiac, soft, ethereal, and romantic looks are perfect for Pisces risings. Think pastel eyeshadows, soft pink blush, and a dreamy, shimmery highlighter. You can even add a little sparkle with a light glitter for a whimsical, fantasy-inspired vibe.

The post Could your rising sign be the key to hacking your makeup routine? appeared first on RUSSH.

The trend has been coined an ‘ice water facial’, and there’s a reason for it’s recent surge in popularity. Braving an ice water facial is said to have a whole host of positives for both your skin and also for your overall wellbeing. Of course, the idea of cold water therapy and its benefits are not new and have been well-documented. But there are some specific reasons why an ice water facial is a particularly valuable practice. And there is plenty of science to support the claims. Here’s what you need to know about why an ice water facial does more than just wake you up.

Ice water depuffs your face

The main source of the benefits from an ice water facial come from the fact that ice acts as a vasoconstrictor. This means it literally makes your blood vessels constrict, bringing less blood to that area and reducing inflammation and also reducing the appearance of any puffiness caused by swelling. It can also remove puffiness caused by excess fluid as ice promotes lymphatic drainage. In the same way that ice causes blood vessels to constrict, it also causes lymph vessels to constrict. This pushes more fluid through the lymphatic system and allows it to drain.

The process combats your hangover symptoms

In addition to giving your face a depuff, ice water facials can also assist with the mental symptoms of a hangover. If you’re feeling groggy and sluggish, giving your complexion an ice bath can help clarity and alertness. Ice water is a shock, it alerts up the nervous system and helps us feel more awake. Short term exposure to cold stimulates the vagus nerve, which is the brain’s pathway to mood, heart rate and also importantly, digestion. It means there is evidence that ice water could reduce post-hangover nausea. There’s also an endorphin release following exposure to cold water which helps with an overall feeling of wellbeing.

It can help with skin clarity long-term by reducing acne and redness

Another benefit of vasoconstriction is that it can reduce the appearance of redness. Obviously it won’t cure the underlying problem if there is one, but an ice water facial will help combat the look of redness on the skin. Plus, if you have acne, an ice water facial will reduce the swelling and help any breakouts appear less inflamed. There is also some evidence to suggest that ice water facials can reduce excessive oiliness and regulate sebum production. When your skin is exposed to ice water, it triggers the production of norepinephrine, and this hormone decreases oil flow. Of course, a regulated oil flow can also assist with smaller pores. All of these benefits ultimately lead to clearer, brighter skin.

The post Why is everyone plunging their faces into cold water? appeared first on RUSSH.

But I’m happy to report that there’s a new sheriff in town. Or rather, on the marble-slick corners of Athens and the cobblestoned backstreets of the Greek islands. This isn’t the minimalist, clinically-backed France of A313 creams and Biologique Recherche toners. Greek pharmacies are a different temple entirely: botanical products, made with pure ingredients, often edible-sounding. Think olive oil, propolis, bee pollen and mastiha – the same ingredients you’d find on your plate or in your glass, bottled for your face and body.

Greek pharmacies brim with homegrown heroes like Korres, Apivita and The Naxos Apothecary, yet you’ll still find all your French (and occasionally Korean) classics. Apivita’s leave-in conditioner has repeatedly resurrected my salt-encrusted hair, while a trusted insider tip finally put to rest a lifelong search for the perfect eyeliner (and at just eight euros!). As if you needed another reason to book a trip to Greece, consider the below roundup of the best Greek pharmacy brands, and their greatest hits, your official nudge.

Apivita

A post shared by APIVITA: life of a (@apivita)

Apivita is ubiquitous in Greece, but don’t let that fool you into thinking it’s generic. The brand was started by two pharmacists and leans hard into bee products and Greek herbs like calendula, thyme, propolis. The aforementioned Leave-In Conditioner with Hyaluronic Acid & Honey lives in my beach bag, and their travel-sized face masks are ideal if you’ve packed a tight edit of beauty products.

Korres

A post shared by KORRES (@korres)

Korres has long since crossed into global territory, but it still feels distinctly Greek. Born from a homeopathic pharmacy in Athens in 1996, it toes the line between clinical and botanical, with a surprising amount of range: cleansers, serums, body oils, remarkably good nail polish. The Greek Yoghurt Nourishing Probiotic Gel-Cream is one of my favourite products on planet Earth, and the Volcanic Minerals Twist Eyeshadow, recommended by a friend’s makeup artist friend, is an excellent way to spend eight euros, with its creamy and long-lasting formulation.

Elsewhere, the Pure Greek Olive Oil range was an impeccable recommendation from Greek aficionado Pasta Mama. You can use it on body, face and hair to bring your salt-rinsed everything back to life. (he shampoo and conditioner from that line are also great). Stock up at their flagship in Athens before you hightail it to the islands.

The Naxos Apothecary

A post shared by The Naxos Apothecary (@thenaxosapothecary)

Walking into The Naxos Apothecary outpost in Athens is the closest I’ve come to heaven. A visual and olfactory wonder, the homeopathic space is a concept store in the truest sense of the word with its slick interiors, upstairs cafe and sky-high shelves stacked with scent-driven skincare, teas, oils and tinctures inspired by different Greek islands. The staff are kind and generous with their time, more than happy to talk at length about ingredient sourcing or offer tailored recommendations based on your skin type and scent profile. If you’re lucky, they’ll hand you an iced tea while you pile products into your basket. I am clinically obsessed with their Chalki body balm, inspired by the Dodecanese island, and made using Helichrysum Italicum extract with a lingering citrus scent.

Papoutsanis

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Founded in 1870, Papoutsanis is one of Greece’s oldest soap makers. It’s utilitarian but beautifully made: bar soaps, body washes and hair products centred around olive oil and Greek botanicals. The pricing makes it feel almost suspiciously affordable, but the formulas will soothe any concerns.

Frezyderm

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The cult Sun Screen Velvet Face Cream Spf50+ was my gateway drug to Frezyderm: matte, smooth, a little heavy for everyday wear at the beach, but great under makeup. Their whitening toothpaste is also worth picking up when you inevitably run out of your tube mid-trip.

Youth Lab

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Athens-based and dermatologist-formulated, Youth Lab focuses on actives – think peptides, retinol, exfoliating acids – and sits somewhere between The Ordinary and La Roche-Posay, but with a Greek feel. The Peptides Eye Cream is a classic and the Retinol Reboot range is a strong option for smoothing and evening skin tone.

Olive Era

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Made in Crete and based, as the name would suggest, on olive oil. The body lotions are lightweight and the shampoo has a satisfying herbal scent. The Mountain Tea line is the one: green, resinous and transportive.

Messinian Spa

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Body care from the Peloponnese that centres olive oil but leans into fruit: fig, prickly pear, pomegranate. The body milks and oils are generously scented and easy to find in most pharmacies. The packaging isn’t the chicest, but that feels negligible when you smell like a freshly-ripened fig.

Froika

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A longstanding yet underrated clinical Greek brand. The Azelaic Acid Cream is its best-known product, often used for post-inflammatory pigmentation and redness, and the SPF range is mineral, fragrance-free and specifically made for compromised skin. The plain packaging points to its function-forward formulations, and you won’t see it anywhere outside of Greece, so stock up while you can.

Feature image courtesy Faithfull.

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