It’s not just dry skin: 5 things everyone needs to know about eczema
It’s easy to dismiss eczema as just itchy dry skin. But as millions of people know, the effects of eczema go way beyond this. “Eczema is so much more than ‘just an itch’,” says Andrew Proctor, chief executive of the National Eczema Society. “Affecting over eight million people in the UK, this incurable, highly visible skin condition has a huge impact on every aspect of a person’s life, extending far beyond the physical symptoms of itchy, inflamed, sore, cracked and bleeding skin. “Living with eczema means constantly having to plan and prepare, as every decision you make will potentially affect your skin. It shapes your home environment, education, career, social life, hobbies, holidays and relationships, and as a result, patients often report feeling anxious, depressed, self-conscious, isolated and helpless.” This National Eczema Week (September 9-16), here’s what Proctor wants everyone to know… 1. It doesn’t just affect children Atopic eczema affects one in five children and one in 10 adults in the UK. Proctor says: “While eczema is often viewed as a childhood condition, it affects people of all ages. Some develop eczema as babies, others in childhood, but thankfully it can improve over time.” Some people will have eczema all their life however, and some only develop it in their later years. “The important thing is to seek medical advice as soon as possible to get control of the eczema and develop an effective skincare routine,” advises Proctor. 2. It’s not contagious Proctor says that sadly, many people still think you can catch eczema. “However, atopic eczema isn’t contagious,” he stresses – pointing out it’s a complex condition involving genes, the immune system, the environment and our skin barrier. “This means skin becomes very dry and doesn’t provide sufficient protection from irritants, allergens and infection.” To tackle this, a foundation of eczema care is to apply medical moisturisers (emollients) to trap water in the skin and help reinforce the skin barrier. “Finding the emollient that suits your skin best can involve a lot of trial and error, but it’s critical to managing eczema,” says Proctor. 3. Environment plays a huge role Environmental factors can trigger eczema flare-ups or make it worse. Common culprits include stress, being too hot/cold or experiencing a sudden change in temperature, soap, shampoo and bubble bath, laundry detergent and cleaning products, perfume, pollens and moulds, pet fur, wool and synthetic fabric, and house dust mites. “Everyone will have certain things that trigger their eczema, and these vary between people,” Proctor explains. “Try keeping a diary to help identify triggers and patterns, so you can remove likely suspects and see if it helps. Triggers can also change over time and it’s worth continuing with the diary even if you think you’ve identified yours.” 4. It’s hard not to scratch Proctor explains: “One of the most maddening things you can say to someone with eczema is ‘stop scratching’. It’s not that simple! The unbearable, relentless itch is one of the defining features of the condition, and patients refer to it as torture. “You know you shouldn’t scratch, as it damages the skin and can cause infections, but the relief it provides is irresistible.” To help manage the itch, Proctor suggests finding a positive distraction or asking others to help you take your mind off it. You could also try substituting another action for scratching – press a nail on the itchy patch or tap the skin gently with your forefinger; keep your hands occupied with a ball, toy or other object; or wrap a bag of frozen peas in a towel and apply it to the itchiest area. 5. It’s a mental as well as physical battle Living with eczema is mentally exhausting too. “It can be a rollercoaster of emotions, from excitement when you start a new treatment, to despair when it doesn’t work or you experience a bad flare-up,” says Proctor. “There can be huge frustration too, when you do everything you’ve been asked and the eczema still refuses to give you any respite.” If this happens, as well as asking your GP or dermatologist for a review, it’s important to reach out to family and friends for support: “People who are able to open up about how their eczema truly affects them can feel a huge weight has been lifted.” Other ways to help cope include good nutrition and hydration, regular exercise, rest and relaxation. “Journaling, meditation and mindfulness can help you focus on the good things in your life and counterbalance negative feelings about eczema,” adds Proctor. “When so much time and effort goes into managing your eczema, it’s easy to forget there’s more to you than just your skin. Think about what you want to accomplish and formulate a plan. It’s about living successfully alongside eczema, not having your life defined by it.” For more information, visit eczema.org. The NES’ new video – More Than ‘Just An Itch’ – goes live on September 9 to mark National Eczema Week. Read More Charity boss speaks out over ‘traumatic’ encounter with royal aide Ukraine war’s heaviest fight rages in east - follow live YouTube begins verifying videos by UK doctors to tackle health misinformation Should you swap your foundation for a lightweight skin tint? What should you do if you think your child is being bullied at school?
2023-09-08 16:20
4 key activewear trends for autumn workouts
The new season calls for a change in sportswear, as we say goodbye to summer and get in gear for autumn activities. The latest activewear collections have landed and they’re full of stylish pieces for exercise enthusiasts – whether you’re pounding the pavement on morning runs, getting sweaty at spin class, stretching it out at yoga or jumping around with a HIIT workout. Here are four essential fitness fashion trends to know about now… 1. Quarter zip tops If you buy one thing for working out this season, make it a slim-fit quarter-zip top. Versatile and practical, these breathable mid-layers are great for warm-ups or outdoor workouts on chilly days. Available in cropped and longline styles, they come in a huge range of colours and prints. Nike Air Crop 1/4 Zip Top, £73; Nike Air Flare Leggings, £60, JD Sports Adidas Techfit Cold.Rdy 1/4 Zip Long Sleeve Training Top Preloved Yellow, £55 2. Pink Fabletics Corey SculptKnit L/S Top Very Berry, £49 for members (£64 for non-members); High-Waisted SculptKnit Panelled 7/8 Very Berry, £54 for members (£69 for non-members) Barbie’s favourite colour is still going strong for autumn, especially in the athleisure department. Bring some brightness to your workout wardrobe with everything from pastel pink to fuchsia. Very X Lucky Mecklenburgh Seamless Training Bra Pink, £25; Seamless Cycling Shorts Pink, £25 Puma Ultraweave 2-in-1 Running Jacket Women, £90 3. Bodysuits Gymnastics-inspired unitards are a sleek, all-in-one solution for yoga and Pilates buffs. A workout onesie will take you from the gym to brunch – just throw on a baggy sweatshirt and your outfit is complete. Tala SkinLuxe Unitard Shadow Black, £56 Sweaty Betty Super Soft Bodysuit Trek Green, £110 4. Eighties aesthetic Go retro with 1980s-inspired sportswear – think bright, clashing colours and bold logos on everything. Team an oversized tee or sweatshirt with bike shorts, ribbed ankle socks, chunky trainers and a baseball cap for a cool, vintage vibe. Berghaus Logo Boyfriend T-Shirt, £30, JD Sports Castore Navy Silverstone Core Monobrand Cap, £22
2023-09-07 16:59
Naomi Campbell, Cindy Crawford, Linda Evangelista, Christy Turlington star in first trailer for 'Super Models' docuseries
Four of the women who inspired the term "supermodel" are getting some majorly overdue recognition in a new docuseries set to premiere on Apple TV+ later this month.
2023-09-07 08:21
21 best documentaries streaming now on Prime Video for when you need a good dose of reality
Most documentaries have lessons to impart and important things to say, but some of the
2023-09-06 17:50
31 shows we can't wait to see this fall
Fall is just around the corner, and you know what that means: Time for more
2023-09-02 17:48
4 viral TikTok make-up trends you’ll actually want to try
TikTok is overflowing with beauty crazes that spread like wildfire, from celebrity-inspired make-up to time-saving hair hacks. Sometimes these trends aren’t exactly practical (applying contour with the end of a plastic straw, for example) or appealing (fake eye bags, anyone?) but this summer there have been some gorgeous make-up looks circulating on the video platform. Subtle, flattering and easy to achieve at home, here are four popular TikTok make-up trends that look good on everyone… 1. Strawberry girl Hailey Bieber has declared it’s ‘strawberry girl summer’, sharing several snaps showing the fresh-faced make-up look on Instagram and posting a video tutorial on TikTok. Strawberry girl make-up involves a dewy, bronzed base with flushed cheeks and lips the colour of ripe strawberries. Bieber explained how she started by prepping her skin with serum and moisturiser, then used a brush to apply cream bronzer on her cheekbones and temples, followed by a few dots of concealer blended out to create a natural-looking base. The key product you need for this look is a pinky-red toned cream blush. Dab on the apples of your cheeks and blend outwards, adding a touch to your nose (if it looks like you’ve caught the sun, you’ve nailed it). If you want to you can add fake freckles with a brown liquid eyeliner or freckle pen, then finish with a hint of mascara (not too much) and the same cream blush dabbed onto your lips for a juicy pout. Mii Cosmetics Colour Wonder Lip and Cheek Balm Rebel Red, £23.50 2. Honey lips Layering up lip gloss and glittering gold powder is how you get the ‘honey lips’ look – the kind of high-shine plumped pout we often see Jennifer Lopez rocking on the red carpet. “A glitter-pigmented eyeshadow works so well for achieving this look,” says Elanna Pecherle, make-up artist and founder of Pearl Beauty. “But first ensure your lips are exfoliated – buff away any flakes and dryness, which will ensure smoother application.” Start with your eyeshadow or powder highlighter: “Apply it directly from your finger onto the centre of your lips, focusing on the Cupid’s bow and the centre of your lower lip.” A warm brown or peachy lip gloss on top will create the perfect honey tone. “You can define your lip with a nude shade liner that matches your lip colour, or go straight in with a gorgeous gloss,” Pecherle says. “You can also use a lip oil for this last step too.” Pearl Beauty Spotlight Gold, £12 Revolution Beauty I Heart Revolution Soft Swirl Gloss Chocolate Lip in Toffee Crunch, £3.20 (was £4), LookFantastic 3. Espresso shades As seen on TikTok beauty stars such as Meredith Duxbury and Millie Leer, the espresso make-up trend is inspired by the deep, chocolatey shade of freshly brewed coffee. After applying your usual foundation, use a cool-toned dark brown eyeshadow (either powder or cream) to create a smoky-eye look, blending up into the crease and using a smaller brush on the lower lash line, then finishing with black mascara. To achieve a monochromatic look, apply a matte bronzer on the cheekbones and temples, then finish with a nudey-brown lip colour – a satin or gloss finish keeps the look dewy and fresh. Trinny London Eye2Eye in Emperor, £18 Glossier Ultralip in Pony, £18 4. Clean girl aesthetic The latest incarnation of the ‘no make-up make-up’ look, the clean girl aesthetic is about flawless, dewy skin and nearly-nude lips, and the summer edition comes with a beautifully bronzed glow. The key to achieving this look is to use all cream products and, if you’re really committed, start the night before with tanning drops. Beauty fans on TikTok are loving self-tan serums and drops that you mix with your moisturiser and leave to develop overnight, so you wake up with a warm sunkissed glow. Indeed Labs Nanobronze Bronzing Drops, £13.33 (was £19.99), Boots Opt for a lightweight skin tint or BB cream (combined with concealer if you want a little more coverage), then dab a peachy-toned cream highlighter on the apples of your cheeks, nose, temples and under your brow bones. Brush up your brows with a clear brow gel and leave your lids bare (add a coat of mascara if you want definition) then finish with a slick of clear lip balm or oil. Jones Road Miracle Balm Au Naturel, £36 Jones Road The Brow Gel Clear, £23 Read More Charity boss speaks out over ‘traumatic’ encounter with royal aide Ukraine war’s heaviest fight rages in east - follow live Childhood Cancer Awareness Month: What are the warning signs that your child might have cancer? Daily aspirin dose could help prevent diabetes in older people – researchers Secondhand September: The best places to buy pre-loved fashion online
2023-09-01 16:23
10 slick ways to kit out your student digs
A new term and exciting times! But before the academic year kicks off, you’ve already been tasked your first assignment – how best to style-up your student space. Depending on your halls of residence and budget, you may have crowdfunded some of the basics from family and friends – and then you’ll want a few niceties to kit out your digs and personalise your pad. To take your bijou bedroom to the next level, we’ve done our homework and prepped some key pieces… 1. Linen and PU A4 Spiral Notebook – Brown, £3.49, Linen and PU A5 Notebook with Pen – Brown, £3.49, Linen and PU A5 Notebook – Grey, £2.49, Pack of 2 Linen and PU Pen Set, £2.99, Linen and PU Pencil Case – £2.99, rest of items from a selection, The Range Some might say stylish stationery is the foundation for formulating all those creative ideas. 2. Erica Green Ceramic Desk & Table Lamp, £45, Oliver Bonas Lighting is key to late-night swotting, especially when the clocks go back and you’re hoping to file an assignment ahead of time. With a trendy exposed bulb, geometric design and pink cord, this one’s bang up to date. 3. Pegboard – Medium, Pink, £50, Block When you need to picture something in your mind or are in need of inspiration, a mood board is where it’s at. Available in a rainbow of colours, these peg boards are right on point. 4. The Positive Student Planner, £24, The Positive Planner Described as a ‘dedicated student wellbeing planner’, this 12-week journal is geared towards helping with the pressure and stress of life as a student. Developed with mental health charity Samaritans, think mindful activities, tools and diary notes to keep you on track – and in control. 5. Wire Peg Board With Accessories, Black, £20, Grey 3 Tier Metal Trolley, £22, folding desk from a selection, Dunelm If you prefer the industrial look and a peg board made out of steel is more your thing, this one comes with hooks, baskets and mini shelves. Team with the sturdy trolley and add wire baskets to store your stuff. 6. Bronx Microwave, £85, Next An everyday essential, this charcoal grey model with timber handle and dial knob has the edge for those quick and easy ready meals. 7. Bronx Bottle Opener, £12, Next And when it’s time for a beer break, this groovy bottle opener is just the job. 8. ProCook Carbon Steel Wok, 26.5cm, £14, ProCook There’s more to a wok than stir-fries and this wonderful multitasking tool loves to steam, shallow-fry, poach, stew and toss. 9. Hebe Veronica Plant in Stone Pot, £8, Rowen Low-maintenance and looks good, what’s not to love about this fun faux foliage? 10. Single Green Bedding Starter Pack, £14, Dunelm A bedding bundle is a no-brainer when it’s time to get your head down. Read More Charity boss speaks out over ‘traumatic’ encounter with royal aide Ukraine war’s heaviest fight rages in east - follow live 4 essential officecore trends to update your work wardrobe Sickle Cell Awareness Month: What is sickle cell disease and how do you know if you have it? TikTok has gone wild for adult gymnastics – here’s what you should know
2023-08-31 15:26
4 essential officecore trends to update your work wardrobe
Taking inspiration from the Noughties, ‘officecore’ is all about embracing traditional workwear in a modern way. Big on TikTok, the nine-to-five trend focuses on relaxed tailoring and preppy pieces that look cool whether you work in an office or not. And with that ‘back to school’ feeling in the air, now is the perfect time to refresh your work wardrobe. Here are four officecore ideas to shop this season… 1. Beige tailoring After kicking logomania to the curb, the quiet luxury trend is going nowhere, and that means a pale palette from day to night. Swap your usual black blazer for a two-piece co-ord in a soft shade like beige, biscuit, oatmeal or caramel. Add gold hoop earrings and a tonal leather tote to complete your laidback luxe look. Topshop Brushed Blazer Coat in Oat, £69.70 (was £82); Mini Skirt in Oatmeal, £30.60 (was £36), ASOS (accessories, stylist’s own) Fanfare Ethically Made Beige Linen Suit Jacket, £189 2. Pleated trousers Slim-cut Noughties trousers aren’t part of the officecore agenda (you may be pleased to here). Pleated wide-leg styles are the must-have of the season – perfect for pairing with crisp cotton shirts now, and rollneck tops as the weather turns cooler. Choose from extra-long ‘puddle pants’ that reach the floor, or ankle-length hems to show off your footwear. Paisie Teal Pleated High Waist Trousers, £95; Dark Green Knitted Cut Out Sleeve Top, £78 (top available in October) Misirli 1951 Tie Belt Anthracite Metallic Pants, £164.57 (were £274.28) 3. Pinstripe pieces The heritage print – fine chalky lines on a dark background – has had a major comeback lately in the form of minimalist separates you can mix and match. Try a waistcoat and trousers co-ord or a pinstripe shirt teamed with a high-waisted skirt. Threadbare Women’s Charcoal Pinstripe Lined Fitted Tailored Waistcoat, £39; Women’s Charcoal Pinstripe Wide Leg Tailored Trousers, £43 (shoes, stylist’s own) Fig & Basil Long Sleeve Pinstripe Shirt, £32; PU Ruched Midi Skirt, £40; V by Very Wide Fit Block Heel Slouch Knee Boot With Wider Fitting Calf, £45, Very 4. Luxe loafers Nothing says ‘back to school’ style like a pair of shiny shoes, and this season’s chunky metallic loafers are the ultimate statement footwear. Inspired by brands like Prada and Bally, next-level loafers in gold, silver and bronze shades are a key officecore piece. Oliver Bonas Crackled Copper Leather Loafer Shoes, £89.50 River Island Silver Chain Detail Loafers, £25 Dune London Gradual Loafers in Silver, £110, Debenhams
2023-08-31 15:23
77 Delightful Victorian Slang Terms You Should Be Using
We don’t know how these Victorian slang terms ever fell out of fashion, but we propose bringing them back, as soon as possible.
2023-08-31 01:45
21 best crime documentaries on Netflix right now
True crime is a genre that not only delves into dark tales of murder but
2023-08-30 17:15
12 smart ways to save money on everyday back-to-school costs
Back-to-school shopping can create a hole in parents’ budgets at the best of times, but with a cost-of-living squeeze in full swing, money is particularly tight this year. At a time when every cutback counts, here are some ways to save some money on the costs that will earn you top marks for effort. 1. Check what you have This can be particularly useful if you have more than one child and need to pass items down. When sorting clothing, create piles of those that are in good condition, those that need repairs, and items that are beyond salvaging. Alice Haine, a personal finance analyst at investment platform Bestinvest, says: “Carry out a full audit to see what uniform, stationery items, lunchboxes and water bottles you already have. “You may find unused items still in pristine condition at the back of a cupboard, or used items that are good to go for a second or third academic year – after all, you only want to buy new if you have to.” 2. Create a ‘sell’ pile Haine suggests: “If your child has outgrown some of their uniform, sell them on Facebook Marketplace or WhatsApp groups, and use the cash to buy new items.” Vinted is worth a try, too. 3. List everything you need Once you’ve sorted through everything, make a list of the items you need to acquire. If you have a clear idea, you’re less likely to waste money doubling up, plus, you can buy what’s needed as and when you spot special offers. Depending on your circumstances, it may also be worth checking your government website for grants which could help with school uniform costs. 4. Be clear on school rules You could end up wasting your money if you buy items which don’t match school policies. Haine says: “If you are heading to a new school, check the uniform policy before you buy. Some schools may demand a certain style or colour.” 5. Team up with parents for ‘bulk buys’ “Some multipack prices may seem like great deals, but you might not need four items, so team up with a fellow parent to share the cost,” says Haine. 6. Remember that the cheapest price isn’t always the best value “When it comes to shoes, it can pay to go for a slightly better brand,” suggests Haine. “Cheap shoes can have a short shelf-life when you consider how much they get battered at school. Keep the receipt, because if shoes do fall apart over a short period of time, some stores may replace them with a new pair.” 7. Make sure there’s ‘growing room’ “Always go a size up if your child is still growing, especially on the pricier items, such as blazers, to ensure you get the most out of the investment,” says Haine. “Some brands even sell trousers with a grow-proof hem that can be let down and pressed with an iron, to ensure clothes last longer.” 8. Go refurbished Abigail Yearley, a spokesperson for website TopCashback.co.uk, says: “There are plenty of trustworthy and reliable sites that sell second-hand or refurbished tech, which works as good as new. Just make sure it comes with good warranty before buying.” You may also be able to buy refurbished devices directly from the manufacturer, she says. 9. Look out for second-hand items Check the school’s website for information on buying second-hand uniforms. “Many schools offer a pre-loved uniform service, so checking if that’s available to you should be the first point of action,” suggests Yearley. “If that’s not an option, check on the parents’ group chat if anyone is looking to give away or swap items they no longer need. It’s also worth scouting out Facebook Marketplace and popping into your local charity shops.” 10. Compare prices online Browsing online is a fast way to research and compare prices. Websites such as TopCashback can also help people to get some cashback on purchases from brands such as Clarks, Wilko and Dell, for example. 11. Look out for supermarket staples Tesco, for example, is running a discount deal on selected stationery and lunchtime essentials for its Clubcard members, until September 7, subject to availability. Yearley says: “All the big supermarkets tend to run back-to-school events during the summer months, so make sure you keep an eye out for them. “It’s especially worth checking out discount supermarkets like Aldi, as their back-to-school events are known for bargain prices. “Even if you’ve missed the special event, it’s worth checking their middle aisle, as often you’ll find things like stationery and lunchboxes, which are still cheaper than buying elsewhere.” 12. Get something back for donating M&S has expanded its ‘shwopping’ scheme, with dedicated school uniform shwopping boxes in over 200 stores, to encourage families to donate pre-loved school uniform, to be resold in Oxfam and through a pilot shop with eBay. As a thank you for shwopping school uniform, M&S Sparks customers can receive 20% off selected kids clothing from the retailer. Similarly, if last year’s school shoes are now a battered pair of Kickers, you can recycle them through their Reskinned initiative, which will also get you £15 towards a pair for the new school year. And Schuh offer a £5 voucher for every pair of unwanted shoes you donate, as part of their Sell Your Soles scheme. All these savings really do add up. 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2023-08-29 19:52
11 scary horror movies that'll give you nightmares
It's never a bad time to love horror, but there's certainly never been a better
2023-08-25 07:46