Month: October 2019

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This story about a billion dollar scam to build an undersea Arctic cable is wild

Photo: Bloomberg Businessweek

Last year, the CEO of Quintillion, an Alaskan company trying to build a trans-Arctic undersea cable, was charged with wire fraud after forging contracts to help raise more than $250 million from investors. This week, Bloomberg posted a captivating feature about how that CEO nearly pulled off the scam of a lifetime. It’s a fascinating story of how someone tried to fake it ‘til they almost made it — but also a cautionary tale about big ambitions can push people to make disastrous decisions.

Elizabeth Pierce apparently had huge ambitions to build an undersea cable to give Alaskans (and eventually, parts of Japan, the Pacific Northwest, Greenland, Iceland, and London) better internet access. It was a noble cause. Internet for much of rural…

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I Got a Lash-Lift, and It Changed My Whole Face—Here’s What You Need to Know

For the record: I like my face, and I don’t think it needs changing. But you know what else I like? Gorgeous, full eyelashes. I’m one of those girls who wear mascara to the gym. I honestly feel 100% more equipped to do life when I know those little hairs around my eyeballs are on point. Who’s with me?

Therefore, I’m a mascara enthusiast and have even tried my hand at wearing falsies on the daily. But I guess when it comes down to it, I’m just more committed to convenience than serving epic looks. I haven’t dipped my toe into the more permanent solutions up to this point, partly out of fear of damaging my already-decent-looking lashes and partly because these things tend to be quite expensive and time-consuming.

So when Sugarlash Pro, a company that specializes in lash-lifts and extensions, reached out with the opportunity to test its signature lash-lift service in the comfort of my office (where I spend more time than I spend at my own home), I jumped at the chance. Yes, this is essentially a perm for your eyelashes, but I’m no stranger to perms and hair treatments. I grew up in the 2000s when black women were all about relaxers, and, honestly, all kinds of women were still down with a good perm. (It was a wild time.) Could a lash-lift be the answer to that coveted I-woke-up-like-this confidence? Would it shave any time at all off my morning makeup routine? These were the burning questions I was eager to answer. Read on to learn all about the full experience from start to finish.

I was instructed to come ready with a clean face and told that I would not be able to get my lashes wet for a full 24 hours after the lift. I did wear makeup that day since I had a few meetings and didn’t want to look tired, so I needed to do a deep cleanse to make sure there was no trace of makeup left behind that might interfere.

I dug into my collection of cleansers and grabbed three that would effectively remove every stitch of eye-makeup residue. And knowing it would be the last time I’d be able to thoroughly wash my face until the following day, I decided micellar water, a concentrated eye-makeup cleanser, and an allover foam cleanser were all necessary.

Whether it’s a one-step kind of wash or a three-step kind of wash, this Embryolisse micellar water is always in the mix.

This targeted eyelash cleanser is perfect for removing even the most stubborn mascara, without having to rub too hard on the delicate eye area.

This is my favorite cleanser right now because it delivers a thorough clean but never leaves my skin feeling dry or tight.

Then came the actual treatment. My Sugarlash Pro technician showed up to my office carrying a folded-up table (kind of like a massage table) for me to lie down on during the service. The first step was to cover my bottom lashes with an adhesive eye mask to keep them out of the way. Then, she applied a soft silicone cover with a gentle glue on top of my upper eyelid to act as the apparatus for the perm. So far, so good.

Next, the technician spread the same glue all over the surface of the silicone cover before brushing my lashes back and completely flush against it. A little curling rod at the base of the silicone eyepiece created the shape my lifted lashes would later mimic.

Now that my lashes were plastered into the appropriate position, it was time to apply the actual lifting agent: three layers of chemical creams, which marinated for about 30 minutes altogether. Honestly, I think I fell asleep or at least slipped into a deep meditative state as I concentrated on keeping my eyes firmly closed. It wasn’t uncomfortable at all, but I will say the smell caught me a little off-guard. It was similar to the familiar smell of a chemical hair relaxer because that’s essentially what this substance is.

After the perming cream was removed, I could instantly tell that my lashes had been altered. The second I opened my eyes, I could feel my them grazing the bottom of my brow bone, so I knew they were standing taller than usual. It was similar to when you open your eyes too wide with wet mascara on and you can feel the inky-black gel transfer onto your eyelid. So before I even looked in the mirror, I knew my lashes were, as the kids say, popping. When my technician handed me a mirror to examine my face, I was floored. My fringes were standing in full bloom like I’d just used a lash curler and a really good mascara.

Overall, the lash-lift went off without a hitch, and I’m beyond pleased with the results. Although I don’t feel like I could skip mascara altogether in my morning routine, I do see a major difference in my bare lashes. They look like they’ve been curled, even when I’m fresh out of bed. And as far as damage to my delicate lash hairs, I haven’t noticed any. In fact, I’ve seen no change in the texture or health of my natural eyelashes. I’d caution anyone with highly sensitive skin to consult a physician before having their lashes permed, as the keratin cream used is pretty strong and could cause a reaction. Also, be prepared for some residual glue from the process to linger on your lids until you can go in with a real wash. I’m antsy, so I found myself picking at the stuff for 24 hours.

The Sugarlash Pro team explained to me that the ideal candidate for a lift is someone who already has good length to their lashes, so that’s definitely something to consider before taking the plunge. For a service that can cost upward of $150, you definitely want to be sure that the results will be up to snuff. There are Sugarlash Pro partners all over the world who can help you determine whether a lash-lift is the right solution.

Maintenance-wise, I was advised that the lash-lift should last for six to eight weeks, meaning that I might be looking at two full months of beautifully permed lashes. According to my Sugarlash Pro tech, I’ll know it’s time for a touch-up when I see some of my lashes starting to revert to their original, less pronounced state.

This OG lash-growth serum combines vitamins, antioxidants, and amino acids into a serum that promotes naturally longer, thicker-looking lashes. You’ll have to be consistent about application, but the results are worth it.

If dense, glossier lashes are on your wish list, you might consider adding this gel by Talika to your regimen. One savvy Amazon reviewer came through with the major pro tip to store it in the refrigerator, which helps preserve the natural botanical formula.

While wax is one of the ingredients that help mascara stick to your lashes to make them appear longer and thicker, it can be a pain to remove. This formula by Maybelline is wax-free, making it much easier to remove.

This is a cult favorite for a reason. Just one swipe delivers plush, voluminous lashes.

Strip lashes aren’t for everyone, but if you want a more dramatic look, and you want it now, these wispy strips will get you there in minutes.

These premium silk lashes have quickly become a staple in the kits of celebrity makeup artists for stars like Olivia Palermo, Kate McKinnon, and Natasha Lyonne. They offer a bit more flexibility than your standard strip lash, and the strip is substantially thinner, too. Up next, the exact products hairstylists use on celeb clients for ridiculously shiny hair.

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I’m 35 and Still Get Carded (Sometimes)—Here’s My Exact Beauty Routine

I don’t think there’s a certain way one is “supposed to” look or feel in their 30s. I know that aging is a part of life that we all experience, but that doesn’t mean that I can’t amp up my beauty routine as I progress through life. Some embrace the signs of aging; I’ve chosen to fight them in the most noninvasive ways that I can for now.

Truth be told, I have always looked young for my age. (Just an example: When I was 11, I was being cast as 7-year-olds in plays.) Even now, at 35 years old, I get carded from time to time and get a lot of comments from strangers about not looking my age when I share it. I like to think that my current skincare routine has something to do with that—at least I hope so, given the amount of time and money I spend on it. (It’s worth noting that something I don’t often spend money on is facials—I prefer to invest in products I can use again and again).

As you know, one of the most important things you can do to offset aging is to avoid the sun, which I’ve always done (save for a few of my teenage years…). I wear sunscreen every single day, and if you don’t, it’s definitely never too late to start. Aside from that, read for the details of my daily beauty routine from morning to night, including makeup, and shop the products I swear by (like my holy-grail sunscreen). 

I don’t get enough sleep, and my morning routine is usually pretty rushed, so I focus on trying to fake looking awake and protecting my skin from the elements.

I know the price seems high for a face wash, but I’ve been using this for years, and it’s worth it. It’s mildly exfoliating and never leaves my dry skin feeling tight.

You’ve probably heard how important vitamin C—and the antioxidants that come along with it—and ferulic acid are for your skin, so I always start with this. It has a subtle brightening effect, but I mostly use it for the damage-prevention factor.

I love a serum, and this one has so much good stuff in it. And it absorbs instantly, making it a great option for busy mornings. If you’re just starting to use anti-aging products, this is a great place to start.

I shake a bit of this into the above serum before applying, and the skin-brightening effects are truly instant. You can shake it into any product, so it’s completely error-proof. Plus, antioxidants!

This is the product on this list I’ve been using the longest by far. It applies like a beautiful lightweight moisturizer and has zero scent. Plus, the SPF is very high, but it doesn’t leave a white cast. I’ve re-bought it countless times over the years.

Can’t forget about the sensitive eye area. This cream is very light and sinks right in. I apply it right after my sunscreen. Bonus: It helps combat the signs of aging.

I don’t know about you, but my eyes can be very red when I wake up (might have something to do with only getting six hours of sleep). I put one drop of this in each eye, and they’re perfectly white and clear in seconds. Plus, it doesn’t burn. Not sure how I ever lived without it. 

I don’t really leave the house without makeup on, but I definitely don’t wear a lot of it. I find that heavy, dramatic makeup is aging on me, so I keep things fresh and light with the focus being on rosy cheeks and dewy skin.

I don’t know how they do it, but this provides great coverage yet stays really sheer. I can’t stand heavy foundation, and this one is light and applies beautifully.

I mix a drop of this serum with my foundation for a little bit of a bronze glow (which I need thanks to that SPF 46). I’d use it even if it didn’t have anti-pollution antioxidants, so it’s a big added bonus that it does.

This just-released color corrector has already become a staple in my makeup routine (because six hours of sleep). I apply it before my concealer, and my dark circles are basically gone.

You’ve probably heard the rave reviews about this cult-favorite concealer. Well, they’re all true, and I’ll never stop buying it.

Pricey? Yes. Worth it? Yep. This stuff is magic when it comes to hiding imperfections, and it blends so well. Plus, my last tube lasted a good two to three years, so there’s that.

I always struggle with finding a pressed setting powder that doesn’t look chalky. I started using this one a few months ago, and it’s nice and sheer and natural, just how I like it.

I love cream blushes and find them to be more youthful and dewier (obviously) than their powder counterparts. Kosas really excels at them, and I love the pretty complementary highlighter it’s paired with.

I love light, shimmery eye color, and this one is perfection. It’s nice and light but has just enough pigment. I always apply a bit at my lower lash line, too, to brighten things up.

I’ve tried a lot of the other cult eyelash curlers, and everyone has their favorite, but this one is the best. You can quote me.

Dramatic mascaras and all their clumpy-lash outcomes are not for me. Glossier Lash Slick is my ride-or-die, as it doesn’t clump or smudge and makes lashes look impossibly long.

I find black eyeliner to be aging, so brown it is for me. This one is nice and rich and applies easily (which is great for me since I’m terrible at applying eyeliner).

If you like a nice fluffy brow that’s just the tiniest bit polished, you must try this. (Take a look at the Sephora reviews if you want further proof.) It also comes in six shades, so finding one that will look natural on you is a cinch. 

I’ve been through multiple tubes of Dior Lip Glow, and I never get tired of it. It has the perfect hint of color and actually stays on even though it feels like a balm.

The focus of my evening routine is on anti-aging and repairing. I have dry skin, so I stay away from anything too harsh, but I’ve found that my skin can handle more acids and exfoliants as I get older. That said, I’ve had to find alternatives to strong retinols, as they’re much too drying for me.

This is my go-to evening cleanser, as it foams up really nicely, and I feel that it takes the day off. And like my morning cleanser, it doesn’t leave my skin with that dreaded tight feeling. Plus, you can get it at the drugstore or on Amazon.

TG for Shani Darden and her gentle retinol products (including Retinol Reform, which I also love). It’s the only form of retinol I’ve been able to use that doesn’t make my skin red and flaky, and the results are really noticeable. My lines are undoubtedly softer since I started using it.

Speaking of Shani Darden, this is the perfect lightweight moisturizer. I often apply it over the retinol (or other strong products) when my skin is feeling parched. 

A few nights a week, I use this Versed miracle worker, and I wake up with a nice glow whenever I do. It works just as well as (if not better than) its pricier counterparts. It gently removes dead skin cells while hydrating. Genius.

I honestly don’t know how or why this serum works, but the second I put it on, my skin is instantly brighter and “glowy.” It’s a little pricey to use every night, but goals. Plus, it smells AMAZING.

Shaba Complex is really gentle—so much so that you can put it on your eyelids. Just reading the description of this convinced me, and so far, I’m happy with the results: “A satiny eye serum formulated with a powerhouse of ingredients to tackle the major signs of aging under and around the eyes such as fine lines, wrinkles, and sun damage for a rested, more youthful appearance.”

I think full brows can really be effective in achieving that youthful look, so I’ve been investing in Revitabrow for years. It works like no other.

This is very hydrating, stays on, and isn’t sticky, all of which are requirements for me in a nighttime lip balm. I also love the yummy coconut smell. 

Not the prettiest tube but definitely the best hand cream I’ve ever tried. I wash my hands a lot, and they’re one of the first things to show age, so I’ll use whatever works. And this works.

Below are a few products that I don’t use every night but that I always have on hand and highly recommend. 

This cream is rich, but in the winter and post-travel, it’s what my skin craves. It really plumps the skin, and when I apply it before bed, my dry patches are gone by morning. Heads-up: Tatcha’s Friends and Family Sale (20% off sitewide!) starts tomorrow, October 13, and goes through October 20. Sounds like a good time to stock up.

This is one of the first skincare products I invested in years ago, and I still use it to this day. It’s the perfect exfoliant, in my opinion. It really gets the job done without being harsh and drying.

This is my favorite mask to use before a special occasion or just when my skin looks particularly dull and needs tightening up. It only takes 10 minutes to work its magic, and as the description states, it will leave you with baby-soft skin.

Like I’ve said many times throughout this story, I love glow-inducing products, and this is one of my favorites. I use it about once a week under my moisturizer for gentle exfoliation and brightening.

In case you want even more of my beauty insight, here are the 14 beauty products I never pack when I travel (and 21 I do).