
If You're Tired Of A Complicated Beauty Routine, These 27 Ulta Products Are For You
We hope you love our recommendations! Some may have been sent as samples, but all were independently selected by our editors. Just FYI, BuzzFeed and its publishing partners may collect a share of sales and/or other compensation from the links on this page.
AKA things that do more than one job or simplify your routine for quicker, effortless results — yep, you're not dreaming.
1. Anua Heartleaf + Vitamin E pore-clearing cleansing oil gently cleanses with its lightweight formula but is tough on gunk and heavy-handed on impurities in one go. Reviewers rave about this sebum-reducing hero, noting its ability to yank blackheads out from cheeks and the nose once it emulsifies with water and is massaged into the skin. The result? A clear, glowing complexion that feels soft and soothed with not a lot of effort.
See it in action on TikTok.
Promising review: "I've been using the Anua Heartleaf Pore Control Cleansing Oil for a few weeks, and it's quickly become a favorite. It removes makeup and impurities effortlessly without leaving my skin feeling dry or greasy. The heartleaf extract helps soothe and reduce pore congestion, leaving my skin smoother and softer. It's lightweight, emulsifies well with water, and has a subtle, calming scent. Overall, it's a fantastic cleansing oil that cleanses deeply while improving skin texture and pore appearance." — Katalina
2. Pür Silky Tint Creamy Multitasking Stick blends and melts into skin with a moisturizing, peptide-rich formula to deliver a sun-kissed glow that begs the question, "Who's that girl?!" Oh, it's just you and your new elevated makeup routine. Using the handy applicator, simply dab it on lips, across your cheekbones and nose bridge, plus your brow bone for a unified, year-round, influencer-inspired flush.
Ulta
Promising review:"The Pur you go pearl multitasking stick is beautiful! The packaging makes it super easy to dispense the product and convenient to take on the go. The pearly color worked really well for my olive undertones. I use two methods for application, the first just my hands — I'll warm the product up on the back of my hand then apply using my fingers to the high points of my cheeks and nose. The second — If I want to get a more precise application I'll pick up the product up with a brush and apply to the inner corner of my eyes and brow bone. The product wears well and layers well both under and over powder. I'm interested to try the more pinky shade now! Highly recommend this!" — Jasmine
3. Living Proof Instant De-Frizzer spray reduces up to 92% of frizz (!!!) so all you have to do to tackle bedhead is give your hair a nice ~spritz~ and simply comb the product through. It also softens your hair between washes and provides UV protection, all with a lightweight and wearable formula. To put it lightly, not all heroes wear capes.
Promising review:"This is my savior for winter static and flyaways. I have fine, thin hair which I air dry. Followed the suggested uses by spraying a little in my hand and smoothing over the flyaways and voila! Problem solved." — Bex13
4. Clinique Pop Lip + Cheek Oil in Black Honey dishes out the viral glossy look in a multipurpose formula that saves you time (and money). Ever dreamed of extending the universally complementary hue beyond your lips? Now you can color match your cheeks with the same wash, giving your skin a naturally-flushed look in a pinch. And don't fret, reviewers note that this dries down and doesn't feel sticky.
Ulta
Promising review:"Didn't know my cheeks needed this. I have never been a big fan of using lip oils in my cheeks but tried this and wow do I love it. It gives me a dewy glow that lasts all day without clogging pores or anything. My cheeks stay on the dry side and this has been a total game-changer. It has become a must-have for my daily routine." — Mel
5. Ilia Super Serum Skin Tint fuses our three main loves in one single product: skincare, makeup, and sun protection. We adore products with magical, good-for-skin ingredients, like hyaluronic acid and niacinamide, known for softening and plumping. Not to mention the weightless feel, sheer coverage, and SPF what? 40! C'est magnifique.
This is silicone free, fragrance free, oil free, noncomedogenic, and safe for sensitive skin. Note that on application, the shade may appear lighter but after 30–60 seconds, it'll adjust to its true color. Because it's silicone-free, natural separation may occur. This is normal and it'll be fixed when applied to skin. Plus, the bottle is recyclable! Learn how to here.
Promising review:"GORGEOUS foundation. I have very sensitive and acne-prone skin and this foundation works wonders on my skin! It goes on so smoothly and does not irritate me at all!" — Jessica
6. Aquaphor's Healing Stick packs natural skin healers like avocado oil and shea butter into one mess-free applicator with multitasking benefits, one that yours truly is actively using to hydrate dry patches and smooth skin creases. But that's not all this wonder balm can do: glide it over skin to prevent chafing and irritation — or toss it in your bag to shield against windburn on the go.
Ulta
To prevent under-eye dryness throughout the day, the Aquaphor Healing Balm is my MVP. I use it as a priming base for either my tinted eye cream (when I'm going for a no-makeup day) or under my concealer. It gives my skin an instant glow and locks in moisture; it appears to blur lines better than if I were to go without it. I have noticed that my makeup doesn't crease as much when I use it, which is obviously a bonus, but I wouldn't say that it completely prevents cakey-ness. I'm always kicking myself if I forget to apply it, as my skin is noticeably less hydrated, so this will continue to be a mainstay in my routine.
Promising reviews:"I'm on my third tube and just ordered another. This is great for lips and dry patches on the face. I also use this as a primer for my concealer. Great product!!" — Lainy
"I rub this on my neck and wrists before applying perfume. Makes my fragrance last ALL DAY and project." — Msandy
7. Curlsmith Multi-tasking Conditioner upgrades your hair-softening experience with a protein-packed formula that can be used so many different ways it's got my head spinning (in the best way possible). Apply it as a rinse-out, deep conditioner, or leave-in treatment to achieve your healthiest-looking, hair-commercial-flipping, frizz-free hair.
Ulta
Blends of babassu, jojoba, and castor oils are there for your hair cuticles — while hemp seed and rice protein offer a plant-based alternative to animal keratin to strengthen strands.
Promising review:"I purchased this product because my hair lacked protein. I've used it as a regular conditioner, deep conditioner and leave-in, and it works well for all three! I have 3B/3C hair, and I love using a little bit of it as a leave-in after wash day. It helps my hair remain defined and soft until my next wash." — Chardonnay
8. L'Oréal Plump Ambition Hyaluron Lip Oil 24HR Care with Hyaluronic Acid boosts the look of your lips *as* it moisturizes — no extra lippy masks or balm needed.
Ulta
Promising review:"Hydrating with a little plump. Lightweight, hydrating, and non-sticky with a nice shine. The plumping is subtle, but it feels great on the lips. A solid lip oil!" — chxrlxy
9. Bumble and Bumble Invisible Oil Heat and UV Protector primes parched locks for initial post-shower styling *and* day two RE-styling. This frizz-fighting, leave-in formula detangles and shields each strand from sun rays and hot air so roots and tips of different thicknesses and textures can all receive a spritz wherever they require extra moisture.
Ulta
Oh! This includes six featherlight oils, including coconut, macadamia, and argania kernel, and can be applied to both damp and dry hair for heat-styling protection or just protection from the drying effects of the sun.
Promising review:"I am very picky about hair products, and this is my favorite leave-in conditioner! I have dry, damaged yet thinning hair, so its hard to find products that are very moisturizing but dont make my thinning hair greasy. This is the perfect balance. My hair detangles so easily with just a few sprays, and it protects my hair from heat damage as I blow dry and straighten my hair. I will also use a little on my dry hair before straightening and it doesnt weigh my hair down like every leave-in or heat protectant I've used. It smells great too. I tend to spray this into my hands and evenly distribute it through my hair. It truly is one of the best products out there and trust me, I've tried a lot." — Denise
10. Live Tinted Hueguard protects your skin year round sans any annoying, ghostly white cast. It's also great if you don't have the patience (or energy) to apply several products in the a.m., since this mineral SPF 30 sunscreen *plus* primer hybrid moisturizes and preps skin for a no-makeup or full-face-makeup day.
This works for all skin tones to leave your face with a beautiful, dewy glow! P.S. This is formulated with 18% zinc oxide (a mineral ingredient that works as a skin protectant — and hooray! Is an FDA-approved sunscreen component that reflects harmful UVs). And yes, it's clean, vegan, cruelty- and fragrance-free, *and* it's reef safe!
Live Tinted is a South-Asian woman-owned beauty brand founded by beauty blogger and entrepreneur Deepica Mutyala. Her brand is built around diversity and inclusion with phenomenal multitasking products that address skin concerns like hyperpigmentation. Just peep their top-selling color-correcting Huestick.
See why this TikToker is choosing Huegard.
I've been writing about Live Tinted's products for some time and finally decided to snag some of their goodies for myself. Hueguard injects a literal ray of liquid sunshine into my daily regimen because, gold. And it really, truly, leaves zero white cast on my face — plus, there's no pilling, either! It blends seamlessly with my complexion, feels ultra-hydrating, and is the perfect base layer for makeup. (That's me above after a few hours of wear with Hueguard layered under some Kosas concealer and One/Size foundation and I've got to be honest — as someone who has had a few acne scars residing on their cheeks for some time and struggles with makeup application — I haven't seen my complexion look this smooth in a minute! AND my no-makeup-makeup look stayed put for hours!) I can't recommend Huegard enough if you're looking to try something new!
Promising review:"This has now become my favorite daily sunscreen/moisturizer/primer. They really do mean it when they say 'no white cast,' and the product doesn't feel oily/doesn't block my pores. I love the consistency and that you can travel with it — plus, it's a 3-in-1, so it saves me a lot of time. Highly recommend!" — Ulta Customer
11. Maybelline's Lash Sensational Sky High mascara lifts lashes in one fell swoop, you won't believe you spent under $13 for this kinda finish. Infused with bamboo extract and fibers, it gives lashes a type of spellbinding hold and volume that won't clump or flake.
Ulta
Promising review: "I have tried all kinds of mascara and keep coming back to this one. It applies well, lasts all day and you can't beat the price." — Doelle
12. Peter Thomas Roth Ultimate 5 Solution Eye Cream features five benefits into its whipped, ultra-hydrating formula. Hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, ceramides, caffeine — oh my — all of which can help improve skin firmness, dark circles, puffiness, fine lines, and dryness if applied twice a day.
Ulta
Promising review:"Extremely effective! I have always been a fan of Peter Thomas Roth, so I tried this eye cream. It outranks every other one I have tried, and I saw a change within a week!" — Audrey
Price: $38
13. Benefit Cosmetics Porefessional Super Setter spray secures makeup with a lightweight, waterproof mist that lasts up to 16 hours *with* the added benefit of blurring pores for a satin-soft complexion.
Ulta
Promising review:"I love this setting spray. My friend suggested it and now I've been using it for a few years and it is just so good. It keeps makeup intact for hours while also giving me a hydrated feel. It's very lightweight and sometimes I just spray it on throughout the day to make my makeup look more glowy." — Iris
14. Chi Volcanic Lava Ceramic Pro Spin N Curl gifts you with ~swoonworthy~ curls in mere minutes (without the damage, thanks the highly effective heat-conducting material: volcanic lava). Once you insert your chosen strands, this ingenious tool automatically wraps it around the heated rod — and by some kind of wizardry, it'll reveal a perfectly set curl. No prior hair-swirling experience needed.
Promising review:"WOWZA! This is an A+ product. I have fine hair and this creates beautiful curls that last. This year I tried the Shark Flex style only to return because the curls didn't last. I've also used L'Ange Le Trident, but this Chi Lava Spin and Curl blows them both out of the water. BUY IT." — LinLo09
Price: $149.99
15. E.l.f.'s Poreless Putty Primer grips makeup for all-day wear. Simply sweep the velvety-soft formula (that has 5,000+ positive ratings) over skin pre-foundation to smooth out uneven complexions and minimize the appearance of pores in a flash.
Ulta
Check it out on TikTok!
Promising review:"Of all the primers I have tried, cheap to expensive, this one is my favorite! It really does blur pores and fine lines. I use this on its own sometimes without makeup. Excellent product at the perfect price!" — Mandie
Price: $10
16. Winky Lux Flower Balm cleverly changes color with your skin's pH level. Taking the guesswork out of finding the perfect shade to match your complexion? Done, thanks to this rave-worthy lippy that even has a flower living inside of it.👀
Promising review:"This flower lip balm is so beautiful and moisturizing! It adds hydration to your lips and makes them feel so smooth! After applying, you will notice your lips turning a pretty shade of pink. The shade depends on your pH balance. It adds a pretty flush of color while moisturizing your lips. Perfect for those no makeup-makeup days or to put on at night before bed. The real chrysanthemum floating in the clear balm is so cool and beautiful to look at!! I LOVE it and would highly recommend this flower lip balm!!" — Athena
17. Mighty Patch hydrocolloid pimple patches work to absorb pus and shrink zits ~head on~ without you needing to do any extra work (or popping!). Since adult acne is a thing *sigh*, these are great to prevent picking and, according to one of our editors, are an effective treatment to help avoid scarring and hyperpigmentation.
Ulta
Melanie Aman, an editor on our Shopping team, tried these out and says:" These are hands down the best pimple patches I've ever used. Why? Because they actually work. I've tried some more cutesy patches that were great for Instagram photos but did nothing to shrink my breakouts. And the pimple patches that touted themselves as basically invisible were — but so were any results. While the Hero Cosmetics pimple patches are a little more visible (but really only noticeable if someone was standing really close to my face), the results are clear to see. (And JSYK, they also make an invisible version, but I have not tried it.)
IMO they work best on whiteheads, drawing out the pus and preventing me from picking. Once all the fluids are drained (yum!), I plop a patch on what was once home to a very angry whitehead and replace it twice a day (once in the morning and once at night). In my experience, that has been the best treatment for preventing really noticeable hyperpigmentation and acne scarring, which my skin is really prone to after breakouts."
Promising review: "I have a bad habit of picking at my face when it's broken out but these help me not do that and it sucks everything out overnight." — Em
18. Lancôme Dual Finish Multi-Tasking Lightweight Pressed Powder Foundation works wonders as a makeup setting powder, shine reducer, and — get this — a liquid foundation. Press and roll using the included puff for blemish coverage, lightly dust with a brush to set, or dampen a sponge and dab for a long-lasting, creamy finish.
Ulta
Promising review:"A staple, multitasking product of mine! I've tried many high- end foundations and always come back to this one. I love that I can use it as a finishing powder when my contour is too prominent and I want to even out the color. I use it when I want to take away some shine after my makeup or throughout the day. I also apply it as a medium coverage foundation, using the sponge it comes with for a super easy application and finish. I've worn this all day, serving in a restaurant, and it still looks great at the end of the night. Though I've evolved my makeup routine, this product will stay with me." — D
Price: $52 (available in 24 shades)
19. Stila All Day Liquid Eye Liner produces precise, sharp, and downright majestic cat eyes with its long-wear waterproof formula. Invented with a felt tip that's user-friendly, it's perfect for newbs and pros alike who are looking to enhance their eye shape with a bold or subtle look that'll last.
Ulta
Promising review:"This is my favorite liquid eyeliner (I've tried a couple of drugstore options, as well as the Too Faced eyeliner). This one isn't too wet and glides on perfectly. This product makes it easy to make lines of any size. Very easy to control! The only con is I wish that the product lasted longer." — Sophie
20. Biolage Color Last Conditioner helps inject shine and softness into color-treated hair, so your locks never look lackluster — even after a dye job. It extends the life of your new vibrant hue (for up to nine weeks!) and locks in moisture with its low pH level, leaving hair looking like you just stepped out of the salon — not just your shower.
Promising review:"I've been using the Biolage Color Last Conditioner for years. My natural hair color is light brown with a hint of strawberry, but I'm getting gray now, so I have it colored a very natural reddish brown. The Biolage Color Last Conditioner does a great job of conditioning, softening, and detangling my hair without stripping the color. I love this product!" — Jen
21. Ole Henriksen Après Skin Overnight Moisturizer + Mask rescues dehydrated skin with a hyaluronic acid and ceramide-enriched cream. So nifty, it can be used as a targeted treatment for dry patches, rubbed into skin as a moisturizer, or applied as a mask post exfoliants, dermaplaning, or other skin resurfacing treatments. Reviewers laud it for its soothing, plumping, and hydrating abilities.
Ulta
Promising review:"Whether you're combating everyday dehydration or dealing with environmental factors like cold weather, this product offers a dependable layer of moisture without clogging your pores. Perfect for daily use, it's definitely earned a place in my skincare routine. I appreciate the non-greasy texture as well. If you're looking for something ultra-rich, this might not be your go-to." — Amanda
22. Tarte Shape Tape Concealer camouflages dark circles, blemishes, and dark spots for long wear, crease-free coverage that never flakes. Because once this stuff is blended, it sticks to its plan of keeping your makeup looking on point.
Ulta
Promising review:"Seriously, this is the best concealer ever and the ONLY makeup product I've never traded out for any other brand! Amazing for covering cystic acne, acne scars, under-eye circles, and redness, it does it all and blends seamlessly and never looks cakey. Great for natural makeup, heavy makeup looks, literally DOES IT ALL." — M
23. Batiste Dry Shampoo freshens up grease-ridden hair instantly — and as an added bonus, it also creates volume. Pro tip: Spritz this on your roots before bed and let it work the night shift on your oily locks for a serious time-saving solution.
Ulta
Promising review:"I really love this dry shampoo. I have heard of this name brand for such a long time but always went with other dry shampoos. I smelled this in store and it smells so good, really fresh and light. I'm so glad I decided to buy this because it really gets the job done. It makes my second-day hair look like I washed it that day and it looks, feels, and smells awesome. I have brown hair and I also haven't noticed any white residue, which means it is absorbing up all the oil like it's suppose to. For the price and size of the can you get, you can't go wrong with getting this." — Jenn
24. Nudestix Nudies Matte Lux All Over Face Blush delivers a buttery-soft, peachy flush that you can use as an eyeshadow, blush, or lipstick. Designed with a built-in brush, take this vitamin-E-enriched, multitasking marvel on the go for first applications and end-of-day touch-ups. No extra tools or products needed.
Ulta
Promising review:"Blush is not an integral part of my routine so being able to keep this in my bag to brighten up my cheeks when I need to is great. Obviously purchased it because I can apply it, keep my hands clean and not have to carry around in additional brush or beauty blender." — Vi
25.
RoC Vitamin C Brightening Serum for Dark Spots & Uneven Tone supplies the skin with not one, but two benefits: brightening and tightening. This noncomedogenic serum can help improve radiance, minimize dark spots, *and* the appearance of fine lines with peptides that assist with the loss of skin elasticity.
Ulta
Promising review:"This is the second time I have purchased this, and I love how it brightens my skin and removes dark areas. I have used other products twice as pricey and never got results like I do with this. Great for sensitive skin, too!" — MkMeLaugh
26. Curlsmith Hold Me Softly Style Balm offers a lightweight curl-enhancing formula that — ta-daaa — gives tresses some oomph without the crunch. Think: frizz control paired with soft definition; best applied to wet, sectioned-off hair that you can wrap and now shape with ease.
Ulta
Promising review:"I hope they never discontinue this!!! I use this generously under my gel on wash days (on very wet hair), and it smooths and softens my coarse, low-porosity hair like a dream! I also love to use this to dry refresh my curls on days 2-4 and it's amazing at smoothing down my frizz! It's so lightweight and I love that it dries down super soft :-)" — K
Reviews have been edited for length and clarity.
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6 hours ago
- Buzz Feed
Popular Eating Habit May Be A Disorder, Experts Warn
Spend more than 30 seconds on TikTok, and you'll hear fitness influencers sing the praises of intermittent fasting. This eating plan is touted as a 'lifestyle change' rather than a diet, where people consume calories on a 16:8 plan (fast for 16 hours; eat normally for eight hours), a 5:2 plan (eat normally for five days; fast for two days) or another variation. The purported benefits of intermittent fasting are numerous: It can curb late-night eating, reduce inflammation, lower your risk of chronic diseases like diabetes and cardiovascular disease, improve gut health and, of course, lead to weight loss. But for folks who may be affected by disordered eating, intermittent fasting could lead down a slippery slope. An estimated 9% of the U.S. — or about 28.8 million people — will have an eating disorder in their lifetimes. While eating disorders like anorexia nervosa and bulimia must meet specific diagnostic criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, disordered eating can apply to anyone with body image issues, dieting and/or psychological distress around food. People with disordered eating behaviors might hide in plain sight behind popular diets and wellness trends like intermittent fasting, which provides the perfect cover for restrictive eating. It's A Socially Acceptable Disguise Most people would be concerned to hear a friend say they were starving themselves, but no one bats an eye with intermittent fasting. 'Intermittent fasting can sometimes serve as a socially acceptable disguise for disordered eating behaviors,' said registered dietitian nutritionist Becky Mehr, director of outpatient nutrition at The Renfrew Center, a network of eating disorder treatment facilities. 'While it is often marketed as a tool for weight loss, improving metabolic health or simplifying eating patterns, it can become problematic — especially for those with a history of eating disorders,' she said. Mehr explained that because scheduled fasting requires skipping meals and ignoring hunger cues, it'll hide your disordered eating without raising concern. In fact, it could promote the opposite: praise for weight loss or 'perceived discipline' that could reinforce harmful behaviors. Mehr adds, 'Our bodies are not machines or calculators — they don't thrive on rigid calorie restrictions or time-bound nourishment.' Dr. Anne Marie O'Melia, chief clinical and quality officer at the Eating Recovery Center, told HuffPost, 'For individuals who are genetically and environmentally vulnerable to developing eating disorders, any form of caloric restriction or adherence to rigid food rules — including intermittent fasting — significantly increases their risk.' In fact, recent research has shown that many young women who participated in intermittent fasting had traits of eating disorder behaviors such as overeating, binge eating, vomiting, laxative use, compulsive exercise and fasting. 'We know that dieting and restriction are the number one predictors of eating disorder onset, particularly in adolescents and young adults,' O'Melia explained. 'The promise of short-term benefits like weight loss or metabolic changes pales in comparison to the real and devastating risks: Eating disorders have significant psychiatric and medical consequences, and the highest mortality rate among mental illnesses.' Intermittent fasting 'may seem harmless or even beneficial at first, but for too many people, it is a gateway into long-term, life-threatening struggles with food and body,' she added. Bottom line: The potential benefits of intermittent fasting do not outweigh the risks of developing or worsening an eating disorder. So how do you know if it's safe to try intermittent fasting? Our experts shared that it's all in your head — or, more specifically, in your mindset. 'The key difference lies in mindset, intent and impact on daily life,' Mehr said. If you are able to do intermittent fasting without obsessive thoughts about food or body image, and without rigid food rules that impair your daily functioning, then it might be OK. For everyone else, it can quickly spiral into disordered eating. This might look like 'experiencing intense anxiety about breaking 'rules,' obsessing over food, feeling shame about eating, avoiding social events involving food or using fasting as a way to control weight at all costs,' according to O'Melia. 'No one sets out thinking, 'I want to develop an eating disorder,' but for individuals with certain genetic, psychological and environmental risk factors, seemingly healthy choices can inadvertently lead to dangerous patterns,' O'Melia said. Signs intermittent fasting is triggering disordered eating include: Compensatory behaviors, like excessive exercise or purging. Avoiding social meals that don't fall in your eating window. Increasing preoccupation with food, body image or weight. Low energy, mood disturbances, sleep issues or trouble concentrating. Only eating 'safe' or 'healthy' foods. Eating in isolation; secrecy or hiding of eating behaviors. Binge eating symptoms, feeling of loss of control when eating. Feeling anxiety, guilt or shame if you eat outside your 'allowed' window. Experiencing medical issues such as fainting, amenorrhea, GI distress, or fatigue, dizziness, weakness, irritability or obsessional thinking about food. Negative or emotionally reactive responses to expressions of concern about changes in behavior. Any additional or increasing behaviors that can be associated with eating disorders, such as laxative use, changes in exercise patterns, developing food rules about the types of food eaten rather than just the times that food is eaten. If fasting starts to feel like an obligation instead of a choice — or affects your ability to enjoy life — it may be time to reevaluate. 'It's critical to remember that the human body is incredibly complex — and it thrives when treated with compassion, not punishment,' O'Melia said. 'Most people' should not do intermittent fasting, Mehr said, and 'especially those with a history of eating disorders, mental health struggles or nutrient deficiencies.' O'Melia added, 'Anyone with a personal history or a significant family history of an eating disorder, disordered eating, body dysmorphia, significant anxiety or depression, trauma history, or compulsive exercise patterns should avoid intermittent fasting.' 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New York Post
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- New York Post
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TikTok has, for its part, attempted to clamp down on this content. 5 TikTok has long been a breeding ground for viral trends, but its latest subculture, 'SkinnyTok,' is reigniting old diet culture in a digital age. Volodymyr – Advertisement Searching for 'SkinnyTok' now triggers a warning: 'You're not alone' and prompts people to seek help if they're struggling with body image, food, or exercise. Influencers like Liv Schmidt, who built a following of over 670,000 with her 'blonde and skinny' persona, have been banned. Yet, the algorithm still seems to serve up the very content it claims to protect users from. So, what can people do to safeguard themselves online? Advertisement First, you need to understand what SkinnyTok is, how the trend has managed to gain such a huge following, and who is most at risk. 5 Searching for 'SkinnyTok' now triggers a warning: 'You're not alone' and prompts people to seek help if they're struggling with body image, food, or exercise. Odua Images – The personal toll Jemma Haythorne, a confidence coach, speaker, and podcaster, knows firsthand the damage that online diet culture can do. 'I started hating my body when I was 12 years old, but really spiralled into disordered eating when I was 16. My friends and I would follow skinny content on Tumblr, using it as 'motivation' to eat less to achieve our goals of being thin,' she tells Advertisement For Haythorne, the pressure peaked during Schoolies, when the prospect of hundreds of Facebook photos led her to subsist on scarily low calories and avoid water to prevent 'bloating' – all ideas she picked up from social media. 'Instagram then became a dangerous place too for someone with body image issues and a fraught relationship with food,' she says, adding that the rise of fitness influencers and 'clean eating' trends was fuel for her already disordered behaviors. Her lowest point came between 2017 and 2019. 'Social media told me that everyone was thin, gorgeous, tanned, hairless, toned, and successful, because that's what the algorithm was serving me, and those were the people who were platformed,' she says. 'The message that I received was that I was failing, because no matter how hard I tried, I couldn't meet those standards.' Haythorne believes that without social media, she would never have developed an eating disorder, depression, and anxiety to the extent she did. The cyclical nature of online trends She says she has witnessed body ideals shift over the years, from ultra-thin, to athletic and toned, to the 'Kim Kardashian' hourglass, and now back to just 'plain thin.' Advertisement Despite the rise of the body positivity movement, she's sceptical about its real-world impact: 'The body ideal has always come back to being in a smaller body — something that I desperately hope we can change in the future.' The influencer effect Influencers and content creators play a massive role in shaping body image perceptions, Haythorne argues. 5 Psychologist Carly Dober confirms that SkinnyTok can trigger and exacerbate disordered eating behaviors and eating disorders. Kate – 'Those who post content that encourages unhealthy relationships with food and bodies are directly damaging their audience. SkinnyTok content is incredibly problematic and harmful, and when this becomes trendy, it becomes dangerous, especially for those who don't have the knowledge and understanding of how damaging it is.' Advertisement But the damage isn't always obvious. Seemingly innocuous 'before and after' photos reinforce the idea that smaller is better, while meal inspiration videos suggest that copying someone's diet will yield the same body. 'Any form of editing of bodies or faces makes people think they need to live up to looking like that in order to be beautiful or worthy, yet the person themselves doesn't even look like that,' she notes. She claims that while platforms like TikTok and Instagram have a responsibility to manage the harm they promote, individual influencers must also be aware of their impact. The psychological impact Advertisement Psychologist Carly Dober confirms that SkinnyTok can trigger and exacerbate disordered eating behaviors and eating disorders. 'These trends influence how people perceive and evaluate their own bodies, and the bodies of others. Behaviorally, people may self-isolate, which can also impact their work, education, and relationships,' she explains. Beyond the psychological impact, the physical consequences are dire too. Eating disorders can harm the heart, digestive system, bones, teeth, and mouth. Advertisement Typical serious side effects include low blood pressure, slow or irregular heartbeats, feeling tired, weak, dizzy, or faint, constipation and bloating, irregular periods, and weak bones. Who's most at risk? According to Dober, certain groups are especially vulnerable to the dangers of SkinnyTok. These include: – Adolescents (especially those aged 12–25) with a median age of 18 – Women during key transition periods (e.g. finishing school) 5 'SkinnyTok content is incredibly problematic and harmful, and when this becomes trendy, it becomes dangerous, especially for those who don't have the knowledge and understanding of how damaging it is,' experts said. LIGHTFIELD STUDIOS – – Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome or diabetes – Athletes and those in appearance-focused activities like dancing – People with a family history of eating disorders – Anyone seeking help for weight loss or who has engaged in dieting or disordered eating The role of TikTok's culture Qualified nutritionist Yaz Jackson sees SkinnyTok as part of a broader trend of 'normalizing' harmful behaviors on TikTok. She notes that TikTok's culture is different from Instagram's: 'You can 'get away' with more. It's more of a diary, people feel like they can say whatever, and it's lighthearted, and nobody judges. I've seen creators say things like 'I could never share this on Insta, they'd judge me, but I can tell you guys,'' Jackson believes there's a trend of radical honesty emerging on TikTok, where creators are praised for sharing 'the tea' – the secrets behind their appearance, whether it's the use of medication, diets, or cosmetic surgery. Their content is being favoured, as people applaud them for being 'real' and 'not fake' – i.e., unlike the countless models and celebrities who pretend they eat pizza and burgers when the reality is much different. 'This trend then gains traction because when enough people make something okay to talk about again, they feel safer,' she said. 'Things that were once stigmatized are now being accepted – but only if you are super honest and transparent about it. People love that.' The dangers of unqualified advice Dr. Zac, a GP, urges people to exercise caution when seeking health advice online, especially when it comes from unqualified creators. 'Health advice should come from qualified professionals – doctors, registered dietitians, clinical psychologists – people with actual credentials, not just abs and a ring light. If someone's offering drastic weight loss 'hacks' or pushing extreme transformations, especially if they're profiting from it, be wary,' he says. Things to look out for include: 'Are they citing evidence-based sources? Do they promote balance over extremes? Are they championing sustainable health, or quick fixes and aesthetic perfection?' How to safeguard your mental health Dober and Zac recommend several strategies for protecting yourself online: Curate your feed: Block or mute content and creators that promote unhealthy behaviors 5 SkinnyTok refers to a corner of the internet where creators openly document their weight loss journeys, post 'what I eat in a day' videos featuring alarmingly low calorie counts, and share 'body checks.' Floral Deco – Use platform tools: Filter out triggering keywords where possible Limit screen time: Reduce endless scrolling to avoid algorithm rabbit holes Follow positive accounts: Such as ones that promote body neutrality, mental health, and self-compassion Seek support: If you're struggling, reach out to a psychologist or trusted professional. And as Zac puts it: 'Healing starts when we stop punishing ourselves and start listening to what our body and mind actually need.'


Los Angeles Times
16 hours ago
- Los Angeles Times
Why Non-Surgical Nose Jobs Are Replacing the Knife
Surgical rhinoplasty may be the gold standard, but in 2025, the scalpel is no longer the default. Today's patients want precision without permanence, and they're getting it in under 30 minutes. 'More and more patients are looking for impactful changes without the permanence or downtime of surgery,' says Dr. Ali Ghiyam, MD, of Simi Doctors. 'What used to be a multi-week commitment is now a 20-minute visit with results that can be just as transformative.' Enter the liquid nose job, a fast, reversible fix that's transforming the world of facial aesthetics, one hyaluronic drop at a time. A new generation of patients is reshaping beauty culture, and it's happening through subtle 'tweakments' instead of full-scale transformations. With platforms like TikTok flooding feeds with sculpted side profiles and filter-perfect noses, people are showing up to appointments with screen grabs, not celebrity references. What they want isn't dramatic: it's a touch-up. A straighter bridge. A more lifted tip. A camera-friendly angle. Thanks to the tweakment trend, those wishes now come true with a syringe instead of a scalpel. 'A liquid rhinoplasty uses hyaluronic acid filler to smooth bumps, lift the nasal tip, or create a straighter profile,' explains the Cleveland Clinic. 'It's fast, non-invasive, and delivers immediate results, often with zero downtime. The key advantage? It's temporary and reversible.' The procedure takes less than 30 minutes. Filler (often Juvederm or Restylane) is injected to contour the nose and refine its shape without reducing size or correcting internal structure. It's ideal for patients seeking cosmetic improvements without long recovery or surgical commitment. And if you don't love the results? Hyaluronidase can dissolve the filler in minutes. Liquid rhinoplasty has expanded far beyond the surgery-averse. It's now the go-to tweak for influencers, professionals, and even patients test-driving their future surgical look. Non-surgical procedures like this are part of a broader movement: over 4.4 million filler treatments were performed in the U.S. in a single year, with nose reshaping topping the request list. For younger patients, especially, the appeal lies in control: you can try, adjust, or undo, no operating room required. Despite the no-scalpel promise, liquid rhinoplasty is still a medical procedure, and one that carries risk. The nose contains critical blood vessels. If filler is improperly placed, it can lead to vascular occlusion, potentially causing tissue damage or even blindness. That's why expert care is non-negotiable. Choose a board-certified provider with advanced knowledge of nasal anatomy and vascular safety. Minor swelling and bruising are common. But if you experience pain, skin blanching, or vision changes, you should seek immediate medical attention. The rise of liquid nose jobs marks a shift in how we approach beauty: not as a permanent destination, but as a journey we can refine in real-time. A 2022 NIH study found that younger patients are significantly more likely to choose non-invasive procedures for cosmetic concerns, citing flexibility, reduced downtime, and lower risk. This isn't about perfection, it's about personalization. It's skincare meets sculpting, minus the irreversible choices. If you're curious about rhinoplasty but not quite ready for the OR, this might be the aesthetic middle ground you didn't know you needed. Expect to pay between $600 and $1,500, with results lasting 6 to 12 months depending on the product used and your body's metabolism. Just remember: this is still a medical procedure, not a facial. Choose wisely. Ask questions. And don't let a filter talk you into a filler without doing your homework. A liquid nose job, also known as non-surgical rhinoplasty, is a cosmetic procedure that uses injectable dermal fillers (usually hyaluronic acid) to temporarily reshape the nose. It can smooth bumps, enhance symmetry, and lift the nasal tip without the need for surgery or downtime. Most non-surgical nose jobs last between 6 and 12 months, depending on the type of filler used and how your body metabolizes it. Some patients may need a touch-up around the 9-month mark to maintain results. Yes, when performed by a qualified, board-certified injector. However, the nose is a high-risk area due to its blood vessel structure. Complications like vascular occlusion are rare but serious, so safety depends on the skill and anatomical expertise of the provider. Technically, no, it won't reduce the size of your nose. But by adding filler in strategic places, a liquid rhinoplasty can create the illusion of a smaller, straighter, or more balanced nose by improving proportions and smoothing out irregularities. The average cost of a liquid nose job in the U.S. ranges from $600 to $1,500, depending on the injector's experience, location, and filler brand. It's significantly more affordable upfront than traditional rhinoplasty, but the results are temporary. Yes. If hyaluronic acid filler is used, the procedure is said to be reversible. An enzyme called hyaluronidase can be injected to safely dissolve the filler within 24 to 48 hours. This procedure is ideal for individuals who want minor cosmetic refinements (such as smoothing a dorsal hump or lifting the nasal tip) but aren't ready for the permanence, downtime, or cost of surgery. It's not recommended for those needing structural correction or breathing improvements. Click here to learn more about Dr. Ali Ghiyam, MD.