Your Fall Lip Care Edit: 5 Balms That Keep Chapped Lips at Bay

Let’s talk lips—because nothing ruins a cozy fall vibe faster than chapped ones. Between crisp air, pumpkin spice lattes, and endless sips of hot coffee, your lips are begging for a little extra TLC this season. The good news? A good lip balm can be your cold-weather MVP.

First, let’s decode the ingredients list (because not all balms are created equal):

Shea Butter or Cocoa Butter: Deeply nourish and lock in hydration so your lips stay soft, not flaky.
Hyaluronic Acid: Draws in moisture and gives lips that smooth, plumped-up feel.
Ceramides or Beeswax: Strengthen your skin barrier and protect against chilly, dry air.

Now for the fun part—our fall-approved favorites that go way beyond basic:

1. Cocokind Ceramide Lip Blur Balm: Buttery, glossy, and perfect for a latte run.

2. Personal Day Emotional Support Lip Balm: Clean, hydrating, and acne-safe!

3. Ilia Lip Wrap Reviving Balm: Packed with hyaluronic acid for next-level moisture.

4. Fresh Sugar Lip Balm SPF 15: Hydration plus sun protection (yes, even in fall).

5. Tatcha Kissu Hydrating & Plumping Lip Mask: Your overnight secret to baby-soft lips by morning.

Whether you love a tinted moment or a dewy, natural sheen, consider this your reminder to give your pout a little seasonal self-care. Because fall’s better with soft, kissable lips.

The Art of Facial Balancing: Finding Harmony in Your Features

Ever catch your reflection in a café window and think, “Something feels… off,” but can’t quite put your finger on it? That’s where facial balancing comes in—a subtle, art-meets-science approach that helps your natural beauty feel perfectly in sync. And honestly, there’s no better time than fall to refresh, rebalance, and embrace your glow-up season.

Facial balancing isn’t about changing your face—it’s about enhancing what’s already there. Practitioners take a holistic look at your features (cheeks, jawline, chin, even temples) and use delicate touches of dermal filler or neuromodulators to bring harmony and proportion back into play. Think of it as fine-tuning your natural symmetry, the same way you’d switch up your skincare or wardrobe for the new season.

The goal? A refreshed, rested version of you—like you just got back from a peaceful fall weekend away. Results are natural, immediate, and tailored to your unique structure, with little to no downtime (so you can still make it to that pumpkin patch date).

Why it’s worth considering this season:

• Enhances symmetry and restores volume for a balanced, radiant look
• Delivers natural results—no “just done” vibe
• Boosts confidence by aligning how you look with how you feel

Think of it as your face’s version of a fall reset—a little balance, a little polish, and a whole lot of confidence for sweater-weather season.

Why You Should Start a Monthly Friend Check-In, Especially Leading Into the Holidays

Let’s be honest—life gets busy. Between work, errands, family, and the never-ending to-do list, it’s way too easy to blink and realize you haven’t caught up with your favorite people in months. And with the even busier holiday season quickly approaching - making time for a monthly friend check-in might just be the self-care ritual you didn’t know you needed.

Think of it as your emotional reset button. It doesn’t have to be a big production. Maybe it's just a quick coffee date, a FaceTime chat while you fold laundry, or if they're close by, a walk around the neighborhood. The point isn’t what you do, it’s that you show up for each other. These moments of connection remind us we’re not alone in the chaos, and that someone always has our back (and probably the same level of chaos).

And here’s the science-y bonus: studies show that consistent social connection reduces stress, boosts happiness, and even supports heart health. Friends act like mirrors because they reflect the best parts of us back, especially when we forget they’re there.

So go ahead, put it on the calendar. Pick one day each month (the first Friday, perhaps?) and take turns planning. Keep it fun, flexible, and zero-pressure.

Because at the end of the day, that monthly check-in says everything we all need to hear: I see you, I value you, and I’m here. And honestly? That’s all we really need. 

Ask Clara: How Do I Stay In Touch With My Friends?

Understanding Melasma & How to Talk to Your Dermatologist About It

Melasma might sound like a fancy skincare term, but if you’ve ever noticed mysterious brown or grayish patches showing up on your cheeks, forehead, or upper lip—you’re already familiar. This super common skin condition tends to pop up more in women and can be triggered by a mix of factors like hormones (hello, pregnancy or birth control), sun exposure, or even genetics. It’s especially common in medium to darker skin tones, which have more active pigment-producing cells.

Here’s the deal: melasma isn’t just a little surface-level sunspot situation. It runs deep—literally—thanks to overactive melanocytes working overtime beneath the skin. That’s why quick fixes or “miracle brightening” products rarely do the trick. It takes a consistent, gentle approach to keep melasma in check.

Your best defense? Sunscreen, every single day—rain or shine. Broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher helps prevent flare-ups. Pair that with ingredients like tranexamic acid or hydroquinone (under a dermatologist’s guidance), and you’ve got a good game plan. Some people also find chemical peels or laser treatments helpful, depending on their skin type and sensitivity.

The key thing to remember: melasma isn’t a “flaw”—it’s your skin’s way of reacting to the world. With a little care, patience, and protection, you can calm it down and help your complexion feel more balanced again. Think of it less as a battle, and more as learning what makes your skin happiest.

3 Questions to Ask Your Dermatologist About Melasma:

• “Should I be using prescription creams, in-office treatments, or both?” - Many dermatologists combine topical and procedural treatments for better, faster results.
• “How can I prevent melasma from coming back?”- Ask about daily SPF habits, avoiding heat triggers, and supportive skincare like antioxidants.
• "What's the safest and most effective treatment for my skin type?" -  This ensures you get a plan tailored to your pigmentation, skin tone, and sensitivity.
  

Ask Clara: How Do I Talk To My Dermatologist About Skin Concerns?

The Skinification of Deodorant: When Underarm Care Feels Like Self-Care

If you walk down any wellness aisle these days, you might be as overwhelmed as I've been lately at the many, many new dedorant scents, formulations and added "skincare" benefits. Who knew your underarms were about to have a main-character moment? Once upon a time, deodorant was a basic step—swipe, go, and hope for the best. But thanks to the skinification trend, your morning deo routine has officially leveled up.

Today’s formulas aren’t just about odor control—they’re about underarm care. Think of them as skincare for your pits (yes, really). With ingredients like niacinamide to brighten, lactic acid to smooth, and coconut oil or shea butter to hydrate, deodorants have become full-on beauty products in disguise. Some even help balance your skin’s microbiome, keeping irritation and ingrown hairs at bay.

And can we talk about textures and scents? We’ve entered the era of creamy balms, serum sticks, and dreamy natural fragrances that actually make you look forward to applying deodorant. There’s something oddly satisfying about treating a once-overlooked area of your body with the same care you give your face.

So go ahead—slow down and make it a ritual. Massage it in like a little love note to yourself before you start the day. Because when you think about it, underarm care is self-care: a reminder that every part of you deserves a bit of attention and TLC.

My Top Picks For Deodorant That Loves Your Skin: 

• Megababe The Glo Deo 

• SALT & STONE Aluminum Free Deodorant

• Corpus Deodorant Spray 

• Saltair Serum Deodorant 

Golf Is the New Girls’ Fall Getaway!

Golf is becoming the girls’ Fall getaway of choice. I've recently picked up the clubs again and hit the local driving range with girlfriends both new and old, to hit some balls and enjoy our normal conversation, but with a side of #sports. Since 2019, the number of female golfers surged by 41%, and women now make up a record 28% of all on-course players. Rather than keeping their clubs at home, women are planning full-on golf retreats—blending wellness, style, and social connection.

Resorts are rolling out women-focused golf clinics, chic gear, and spa add-ons to welcome ladies looking for more than just a round. Even travel specialists report 20%+ growth in women’s golf travel, turning it into a lucrative $30?billion industry globally. 

The community is just as powerful as the sport. Online groups like Women Who Golf now span multiple countries, and programs such as Women’s Golf Day offer beginner-friendly, fun-filled days at 1,300+ locations worldwide. This isn’t about competing—it’s about connection. Think girlfriends teeing off in the crisp morning, lounging around the spa midday, and sipping wine around a campfire at the clubhouse in the evening.

Golf retreats for women are growing—fast. They offer a fresh blend of sport, wellness, and travel in a supportive environment. So go ahead: grab your clubs (and your best gal pals), book that retreat, and join the fun!

Vitamin-Powered Skincare: Your Glow Guide

When it comes to skincare, vitamins aren’t just for your morning smoothie—they’re the secret sauce for healthy, glowing skin. Think of them as little power players bottled up in your favorite serums, creams, and body lotions. Let’s break down three all-stars you’ll spot on ingredient labels and why your skin loves them.

Vitamin C
This one’s the brightening queen. Vitamin C (aka ascorbic acid) helps fade dark spots, smooth texture, and give your skin that lit-from-within glow. It’s also a powerful antioxidant, meaning it fights off the free radicals that cause premature aging. Bonus: it boosts collagen, keeping skin firm and bouncy.

Best for: Brightening, texture repair, collagen production, antioxidant protection, and hydration.

Vitamin E
Think of Vitamin E as your skin’s bodyguard. It shields against damage from the sun and environmental stressors while soothing irritation. If your skin runs dry or feels sensitive, Vitamin E is like a cozy blanket—calming, hydrating, and anti-aging all at once.

Best for: Dry skin, calming inflammation, anti-aging, and sun damage protection.

Vitamin A
The OG of anti-aging, Vitamin A (retinol) is the ingredient dermatologists rave about. It speeds up cell turnover, reduces wrinkles, and helps clear breakouts. Basically, it’s your ticket to smoother, more even-toned skin.

Best for: Fine lines, wrinkles, uneven skin tone, and acne.

Bottom line: Adding vitamins to your skincare isn’t complicated—it’s just smart. The next time you’re scanning labels, remember these three are like your skin’s personal wellness plan.

Falling Into Connection: Finding Joy in the Cozy Season

As the days get shorter and the air turns crisp, it’s easy to feel those early-fall “blah” vibes start to creep in. The shift from long summer days to darker evenings can leave us feeling… well, a little lonely. And you’re not alone in that. Loneliness has become such a major part of our public health conversation—and honestly, it can sneak up on anyone, especially during the quieter months.

Add social media into the mix, and suddenly it feels like everyone else is apple-picking, hosting dinner parties, or jetting off to Europe. Cue the FOMO. But here’s the thing: fall doesn’t have to be a highlight reel to be meaningful. Sometimes the coziest, most grounding moments are the small ones—like sipping a warm drink on a chilly morning, walking through crunchy leaves, or finally diving into that book you’ve been meaning to read.

If you’re feeling disconnected, start small. Text a friend you’ve lost touch with. Try a new hobby. Join a community yoga class or volunteering group. And remember—it’s perfectly okay to feel lonely sometimes. The goal isn’t to push the feeling away but to meet it with compassion.

This season can be one of reflection and gentle growth. When you slow down and make space for simple pleasures, you might just find that fall becomes less about what you’re missing—and more about rediscovering the beauty in your own company.

Reads To Inspire Your Self-Care Journey

Let’s be real—self-care isn’t always about bath bombs, sheet masks, or fancy candles (though we’ll never say no to those). Sometimes, the best way to care for yourself is curling up with a good book. There’s something about flipping through pages that feels grounding—like giving your brain a cozy little hug.

Think about it: the right book can meet you exactly where you are. If you’re feeling burnt out, a memoir or guide on slowing down might remind you to breathe. Navigating a big transition? A thoughtful novel can offer comfort in knowing you’re not alone. Or maybe you’re just craving inspiration—words that make you see the world (and yourself) a little differently.

These curated reads aren’t just about passing time; they’re about reconnecting with what matters most—your mind, body, and soul. They invite you to pause, reflect, and maybe even spark the kind of aha! moment that sticks with you long after you’ve closed the cover.

So, the next time you’re tempted to scroll endlessly or binge-watch another series (guilty), consider reaching for a book instead. Self-care doesn’t have to be big or complicated. Sometimes, it’s as simple as turning one page at a time.

And now we want to know: what’s currently sitting on your nightstand? Because honestly, the best conversations often begin with, “Have you read this yet?”

Read Our Top Picks Here

When Friendships End: Healing After a Breakup

We don’t talk about it enough, but friendship breakups can hurt just as much (sometimes more!) than romantic ones. Losing someone who knew your secrets, shared your routines, and made plans for the future with you? That’s a big deal—and it’s completely normal to feel heartbroken, confused, or even angry when it happens.

First things first: give yourself permission to grieve. Friendships are relationships too, and letting go of that bond deserves the same care and space as any other loss. Cry it out, journal your feelings, or take long walks while listening to sad songs—whatever helps you release those emotions.

If the door is open, having an honest, compassionate conversation about what went wrong can bring clarity. But if that’s not possible, closure can also come from within—simply by naming your feelings and accepting them.

Then, shift your focus to healing. Fill your cup with grounding rituals: call a trusted friend who makes you laugh, start a new hobby, spend time outside, or talk it through with a therapist if it feels especially heavy. These little acts of self-care can remind you that you’re not alone.

Here’s the truth: not every friendship is meant to last forever, and that doesn’t make what you shared any less valuable. With time, perspective, and lots of self-compassion, you’ll come out stronger—and maybe even more aware of what you truly need in your relationships moving forward.