It’s no surprise that Arabian perfumes are the new wave. Around a year ago, they went viral on TikTok for being dupes of high-end fragrances, and everyone wants to see what all the rave is about!
(Not to mention, their packaging is so elegant!)
If you want to try some new scents, here are a few that will up your perfume game!
If you’re looking for a lovely gourmand daytime floral scent, then Lattafa’s Hayaati is one to get. Launched in 2023, this perfume is the definition of Spring! Hyaati will linger on your skin/clothes leaving you smelling like a bouquet all day.
The Top notes are: Lychee, Grapefruit, Red Current
A best-seller sold out online, Yara Moi is said to be an elegant perfume. Pairing Yara Moi with a vanilla lotion is key as it is a soft and powdery fragrance. This is another daytime perfume that will get you many compliments. It is great to wear for work or school as it is not too overpowering and lasts throughout the day.
A duplicate of Killian’s, “Love Don’t Be Shy,” Lattafa’s Ansaam Gold is a unisex perfume perfect for a winter night out. According to the website, Ansaam Gold is a woody and floral scent, (although it smells very sweet.) It’s a strong-projection perfume that has a long silage.
Another viral gourmand fragrance is Lattafa’s Eclaire. It is known for being one of the best duplicates of “Bianco Latte,” at a more affordable price. Eclaire is a wonderful winter fragrance perfect for vanilla and caramel lovers! It will have you smelling like a milky caramel cake! Like many other Lattafa fragrances, Eclaire is long-lasting.
The Top notes are: Caramel, Milk, Sugar
Middle Notes: White Flowers, Honey
Base Notes: Vanilla, Praline, Musk
Like all fragrances, there are different factors to consider when choosing your next cologne/perfume. The factors can range from body chemistry to even the pH balance on one’s skin, which can alter how one perceives/smells a certain fragrance. The fragrances listed above have been tried and tested for a year to a few months to give the most honest review. Many of Lattafa’s fragrances can also be purchased through Amazon.
If you want to see more reviews of Lattafa fragrances, here is a link from YouTube.
Check out Lattafa’s latest fragrance release here:
Have you ever wondered what it would feel like to be touched by sound…literally?
Before answering, think of things in life that can make you feel calm and relaxed. It could be as simple as hearing the wind blowing against the trees or the ocean waves splashing.
As satisfying and soothing as those sounds are, you’d also know that nature isn’t the only source of comforting noises.
This is the intention of the autonomous sensory meridian response, known as “ASMR.” It stimulates your brain through visual and auditory sensors that trigger a response such as relaxation or pleasure.
For example, popular YouTuber ‘ASMR Zeitgeist’ creates experimental ASMR videos to help viewers/subscribers tingle, sleep, and relax. Using 2 microphones, he mimics a “3D” audio effect to make it appear like the viewer/listener is close to the triggers.
(Screenshot of ASMR Zeitgeist from YouTube) (Watch here)
In the video, you can see/hear burning marshmallows, soft drinks fizzing, and foaming shaving cream being pumped out of the can. Most of these triggers were requested by subscribers or viewers who find relaxation in “odd” noises.
Around 15 years ago, ‘WhisperingLife ASMR’ posted what is considered to be one of the earliest ASMR videos. In her video, she whispers into the microphone and says she loves hearing others whisper because it is soothing. After that, she posted a series of whispering videos describing herself and even started reading (while whispering) books on her channel.
According to the results of an NCBI study from 2022, the findings stated, “…ASMR decreases feelings of depression in individuals who are sensitive to ASMR. Moreover, ASMR videos reduce heart rate in individuals, irrespective of being sensitive to ASMR or not.”
Popular ASMR triggers include whispering, scratching, typing, hair play, and hand movements that can induce a tingling sensation in the listeners’ skin, neck, and upper spine.
However, this may not be the case if you experience misophonia.
Once considered taboo, ASMR has been growing increasingly popular since its “birth” back in 2009 and has grown visually and audibly as well. Videos such as “ASMR Roleplay” have been introduced to optimize visual/audio aspects of ASMR.
(Screenshot of Celaine’s ASMR from YouTube) (Watch here)
Another example can be seen with ‘Celaine’s ASMR.’ In her video, Celaine is dressed up as a Doctor preparing to conduct a cranial nerve exam for the viewer/listener. She tests the eyes, and ears through a series of hand and light movements close enough to the camera to create an in-person checkup experience.
Typically in these types of videos, the ASMR “artist” asks and “responds” to the viewer as if they are too present.
According to a study by Peerj.com, “The most common time for engagement with ASMR media was reported to be before going to sleep at night, with 81% of participants reporting this as their preferred time.” In addition, they reported that at least 75 percent of participants were triggered by whispering and 69 percent by personal attention.
Using headphones to watch can also amplify the listener’s overall experiences with ASMR.
Personal attention videos involve the ASMR “artist” usually whispering into the microphone while asking the viewer how they are doing. They try to reduce anxieties or worries through popular triggers such as makeup application and close camera contact to induce feelings in the cranial nerve.
‘Whispering Willow ASMR’ posted a personal attention video which you can watch below:
(Screenshot of Whispering Willow ASMR from YouTube) (Watch here)
USA Today said, “Since ASMR appears to activate regions of the brain associated with calming, sleep-inducing hormones like dopamine and oxytocin, ASMR could possibly help some users sleep better.”
Nonetheless, ASMR (the type that does not involve eating or strange role play) benefits those looking for a good night’s sleep. Otherwise, the more aggressive (and odd) videos might be too distracting before bedtime.
First Monday.Org stated, “Empathy is also an important component in the ASMR experience, as “[…] the more you connect and empathize with a particular trigger, the stronger the ASMR reaction you will have to that triggering event” [20].”
This creates a feeling of security between the viewer/creator. It is common among ASMR “artists” to be seen meticulously “performing” triggers as they are seen as the “experts” in the field.
Although ASMR is popularized in certain contexts, many social media consumers don’t understand its benefits and consider it “weird” or “strange.” Many are still unaware of what ASMR is and how it works but, there is a slight chance that watching an ASMR video will change your perspective (even if it seems cringey.)
There is no denying that exposing yourself to ASMR can feel a bit illegal. This is because it is still a growing community stigmatized for being generalized as embarrassing, unsettling, and sometimes creepy. It is about finding the right ASMR “artists” who can make sense of its phenomenon.
Even if these videos are shared all over the internet for the world to see, they were meant to be watched in your downtime to create an ultramodern audio/visual personal experience!
There is no denying that video games are meant to be entertaining and engaging. But sometimes gamers want more than just entertainment and engagement. They want to feel tempted, invited, fascinated, and left with a one-of-a-kind gamer experience, as if pulled from reality.
So, here are five immersive games that you are sure to love!
Are you looking for a supernatural game to immerse in? This action-adventure game is one to catch! Released in 2022, Ghostwire follows the main character Akito around a desolate Tokyo after a phenomenon known as “the vanishing” wipes out the city’s residents. After being possessed by a detective spirit, Akito uses his newfound ethereal weaving skills to find the culprit behind the disappearance of his sister and Tokyo’s population. Gameplay includes exploration, combat, puzzles, and supernatural abilities. Gamers can play through this storyline of 5 chapters through a haunted Tokyo. Expect to be pulled into a world of spirits based on Japanese folklore!
This game will have you questioning your sanity…literally. Layers of Fear is a psychological horror adventure game where gamers play as an emotionally disturbed painter. The setting (a Victorian-era-looking mansion that’s constantly shifting) holds dark secrets about the painter and his past. The point of the game is for players to help the painter complete his masterpiece canvas by searching the house for hidden clues. However, unlike traditional games, there are alternate endings that players can unlock through in-game decision-making. Layers of Fear has you gripped by its haunting aura.
Want to see your favorite actor as a lead character in a video game? In “The Quarry,” the cast is filled with actors such as Brenda Song, David Arquette, and Ariel Winter. This horror game is like a movie. Gamers can play from the perspective of nine characters trying to survive a final night at Hackett’s Quarry summer camp. What they don’t know is that there is a creature lurking among them and it is up to the players to decide the fate of each character. Ultimately, this determines how the story unfolds. Instead of watching horror movies unravel, this is a great interactive play for gamers to use their critical thinking skills and change the course of a plotline!
Horror game plots don’t have to be set in the present to be interesting. Steam Powered, an online game discussion forum wrote, “1975. Disaster strikes the Beira D oil rig off the coast of Scotland. Navigate the collapsing rig to save your crew from an otherworldly horror on the edge of all logic and reality.” With mostly positive reviews, gamers love Still Wakes The Deep’s environment, atmosphere, intensity, and storyline. It is filled with phobias and anxieties that live up to its psychological horror genre.
Unexpectedly engaging, The Book Walker is an indie adventure game for readers and writers who don’t like traditional video games. Players control main character Etienne Quist, who was sentenced to around 30 years of writer’s block. Quist must jump into the worlds of other books and find requested artifacts to regain artistic freedom. Many puzzle-solving, exploration, and player choices also change the outcome of Etienne’s narrative. Here is a player review on Reddit. The Book Walker is also a very relaxing game and players feel it may be a hidden gem amongst first-person games.
Having sold over four million copies and nominated in 2019 for “The Game of the Year,” there is no denying that this game is absolutely a must-play. Loved for its plot, graphics, and atmosphere, users gave mostly positive reviews on this action-adventure game.
Although this game is outdated, it is a great experience! Players explore a dark and broken Wonderland and use magical abilities to defeat the Queen of Hearts and save Wonderland. Fans love the dark-fantasy twist on the Alice in Wonderland story and say it’s timeless!
After years of trying out TONS of curly hair products, I have finally found THE staples for my hair. I have 3c curls and am prone to lots of frizz. Typically, I use products that are thicker in consistency, highly moisturizing, and defining to help accent my natural curls. The products I list vary in texture, performance, and price, though all leave my hair looking/feeling its best! I also mix and match different lines of hair products on wash days to see which products layer well with each other.
If you want to know which products are right for your hair type, follow this hair texture guide.
As of late, the weather has been leaving my curly hair frizzy and a bit dry. This can be due to the high levels of humidity. To help add more moisture to my hair, I use the Bond Curl Rehab Salve as a pre-shampoo treatment (on damp, dirty hair.) Not only does it add moisture to my curls, but it also leaves them more defined which I love! I use this product every few weeks and leave it on for about an hour before going in with my regular wash routine. This is the only Curlsmith product I have tried but seeing how well it works, I will consider trying out the rest of their line!
If you want to begin using clarifying shampoos, Odele is the brand to reach for. I had never tried a clarifying shampoo and I must say that I was missing out. I usually have tons of product buildup on my hair/scalp, but Odele’s shampoo leaves my hair feeling squeaky clean!
I don’t experiment much with shampoos because I use the same shampoo every week. Sometimes, I skip shampoo altogether and use a hair mask and a conditioner if my curls are dehydrated.
After I shampoo my hair, I always use a hair mask. My hair is typically dry so this is a must in my wash routine. (I have swapped conditioner for regular hair masks.) As you can tell by the headline image, I tend to reach for tgin products as my hair absorbs their products well. Both the rosewater and miracle repair hair masks hydrate and restore damaged hair. After using these in my routine, my hair has felt more moisturized. In addition, Mielle’s Rosemary Mint Hair Masque is a must-try! This masque is probably one of my favorites. My curls love this product!It makes detangling super easy and my hair feels amazing after using it.
Choosing a favorite leave-in from the ones I have listed wasn’t easy. If you want your curls to look/feel light and defined, I’d recommend Mixed Chicks Leave-In Conditioner. The consistency is a bit watery but does wonders for my curls. It defines my hair so well, that I can use this product alone and still have fluffy curls! If you are looking for an ultra-moisturizing and thicker hair product, Miss Jessie’s Leave-In Condish is your go-to. It has a jelly-like consistency and moisturizes and protects your curls. This leave-in is one that I usually reach for as I use it almost every wash day. Mielle’s Rosemary Mint Strengthening Leave-In Conditioner is also a favorite of mine. Not only does it make your hair smell amazing but it also encourages hair growth. I use this leave-in after using the Mielle Rosemary Mint Strengthening Hair Mask.
Tip: To ensure your leave-in is evenly distributed throughout your hair, apply it in the shower on soaking-wet hair with a wide-tooth comb.
Curl creams are my favorite product to experiment with. I have tried creams from brands like Cake Beauty, Shea Moisture, Not Your Mother’s, Camille Rose, PATTERN, Aunt Jackie’s, and the list goes on…but nothing leaves my hair feeling as great as these products above. The Sweet Honey Hair Milk moisturizes equal to the Butter Cream Daily Moisturizer. A bit of product goes a long way with these stylers as they are pretty thick in consistency and help with frizz. Similarly, Miss Jessie’s Pillow Soft Curls and Multicultural Curls are truly amazing! Both stylers leave my hair feeling soft, fluffy, and defined without a curl gel or mousse!
I have only listed two products as my favorite “finishers.” Both of these products are water-based and are great at defining and reducing frizz on curly hair. Although the Foaming Gel is on the watery side, it doesn’t leave your hair feeling crunchy like traditional hair mousse. These defining products help my curls last longer throughout the week. As an honorable mention, I would like to add Aunt Jackie’s Frizz Patrol Anti-Poof Setting Mousse as a great holding product. I have not had much success with Aunt Jackie’s line, but this setting mousse helps refresh my hair midweek. Not only can you use this product on wet hair, but it can be used on dry hair to tame frizz and define your curls. This is the only product that I use by Aunt Jackie. I stay away from hair gel as most gel products I use on top of curl creams start to break down and leave white flakes throughout my hair. Water-based setting products (and certain types of mousse) work well for my hair type.
My Hair on a Good Wash Day (By Reneé Medina) (I used hair mousse to set my curls.)
If there’s one product that I need in my hair routine, it’s a good hair oil. Oil helps break hard casts from hair mousse or gel and helps with moisture, shine, and definition. Mixed Chicks hair silk leaves my hair shiny and smooth while TWIST’s Miracle Oil provides ultimate moisture to my curls. I like to add hair oil to my ends after applying a holding product, as my ends are usually severely dry. You can also add oil to your hair by placing a dime-sized amount in the palms of your hands and gently gliding your hands over your dry curls to break a gel cast. Your hair should look more voluminous after this step.
Conclusion:
Most curly hair products claim to help with frizz and definition, but water is a curly girl’s best friend. Depending on your hair texture, your hair might need to be soaking wet or damp for any styling products to have results. Make sure to section your hair for even product distribution. For my hair texture, products absorb better when my hair is soaking wet, so I usually apply my leave-in conditioner in the shower on wash days. I am not a curly hair expert, but this is the best way for my hair to absorb any product. I am a fan of air drying (which might cause excess frizz) but I find that diffusing is a painstaking process that I prefer to endure in the colder seasons.
You don’t always need to use four (leave-in, curl cream, gel, and oil) products on your hair to have the best curls. Many of the products listed work well alone or paired with one product. For my hair type, the longer I wait to wash my hair, the better as my hair is more dry.
I’d rather not splurge on expensive products, but lines like Miss Jessie’s, Mixed Chicks, and tgin make every penny worth it. I usually like to shop at TJMAXX where I can find affordable products from brands like tgin, Mixed Chicks, and Curlsmith. CVS and ULTA sell lots of hair products as well. I would also like to state what works for me might not work for others with curly hair, so it’s best to experiment to see what your hair likes best!
Disclaimer: I am not claiming these hacks are my own. Credit goes to the original creators of these hacks!
With that being said, let’s jump right in!
Add loose-setting powder to thin mascara
(I experimentedwith this hack)
Finding the right mascara can be a struggle, especially if you’re unwilling to splurge on an expensive brand. As a drugstore makeup junkie, I found that adding loose-setting powder to your drugstore mascara can drastically change the consistency to the one that you’re looking for. In particular, L.A. Girl’s Volumatic Mascara’s consistency was a bit too thin for my liking. After I applied the product to my lashes, it took forever to dry and smudged all over my brow bone. After adding setting powder to the wand several times and dipping the wand back into the mascara tube, I noticed the consistency had thickened and there was less smudging. In addition, my lashes looked a wee bit longer and thicker after applying.
As always, take precaution when adding powder to mascara as some loose setting powders contain harsh ingredients such as talc which can cause eye irritation.
(As a side note, I have not gotten any type of reaction to my lashes or eyes when doing this, though this is something that I only do with thin mascara formulas.)
2. Mix your blush with highlighter
This next hack comes from Edward Avila, (whom I’ve been following for a long time!)
If you want to use your favorite powdered blush but want to keep that dewy and glowy makeup look, dip your blush brush into your favorite blush shade and then into your powdered highlighter of choice. For a glowy look, apply the now shimmery blush as you normally would.
With this hack, you can even skip applying highlighter to your cheekbones depending on how much you’ve added to your blush. This hack has only one drawback: your highlighter might absorb the pigment of the blush you’re mixing it with. Nonetheless, this is probably one of my favorite hacks as I love how it leaves my cheeks bright and glowy!
3. Use a highlighter on your waterline
This hack may already have been circulated on social media, but to make my eyes appear brighter and more glassy, I will apply a (powdered) shimmery highlighter or eyeshadow color to my lower-lash waterline. Usually, I reach for a nice gold shade but you can use any colored highlighter (or shimmery eyeshadow) to match your look.
Use a shimmery/glittery shadow sparingly on your waterline, and stay away from chunky shadows with thick pieces of glitter. This could result in eye injury and possibly a trip to the eye doctor.
4. Apply setting spray to your eyeshadow brush to enhance color
In high school, an old friend recommended applying setting spray to my eyeshadow brush. Doing this before dipping the brush into your eyeshadow will make the color appear more prominently on your eyelids and help keep the color in place. I love doing this hack, particularly with shimmery shadows as I feel it makes the shadow appear brighter too.
5. Apply a liquid highlighter over facial lotion to achieve a dewy look
(Another experiment )
My favorite hack for a dewy base probably already went viral, but it’s something I like to do whenever I want a luminous base. All you have to do is just take your routine facial lotion (make sure that there is no tint in it), mix in a few drops (or more) of your favorite liquid highlighter and apply it to your face as you would normally apply your lotion.
You can mix any 2 of your favorite brands together, such as Cetaphil’s moisturizing lotion and J.Cat Beauty’s aura glow highlighter.
This will give your skin a glowy and “wet” look which is great for the summer!
Just make sure not to get any lotion in your eyes!
Lastly, experiment with products!
Have fun with your makeup and feel free to share any hacks that you have!
The 21st Century Girly Blog 