
If Your Busy Season Is 'All Of Them,' Here Are 33 Products To Help You Carve Out Some 'Me Time'
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.
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Even the busiest human can spare a second to toss one of these cult-fave relaxing steamers in the shower and do one silly little page of this "Reverse Coloring Book."
1. A set of self-heating lavender eye masks that might be juuuuust the ticket to releasing the stress and tension that keeps your brain going in circles at night. Reviewers also swear by these for headache and migraine relief!
Read more about aromatherapy and stress and tension at Johns Hopkins.
Promising review:"While they don't reduce my dryness, I have never slept better wearing these before bed. The heat is so nice. The fit is perfect. Light on my face, and after about 30 seconds, I don't even feel it around my ears. I'm so glad I discovered these. Will be buying again!" — Tiffany Campbell
"So soothing and relaxing 😌. I deal with chronic pain on a 24/7 basis, and that can include headaches, migraines, anxiety, and sleeplessness. These eye masks are such a nice way to relax and drift off to sleep. They smell like lavender and are warm against my eyes and temples, helping to soothe any tension or puffiness from being upset over the pain. They were a gift to me, but I'll be ordering more 💜." — Megan Masser Reaves
Get a set of ten from Amazon for $7.99.
2. Eos Cashmere Vanilla Cashmere Whipped Oil Body Butter — yes, that's right, the astronomically TikTok-famous Eos "cashmere" body lotion now comes in a luxurious body butter form, and it's every bit as decadent as it sounds. Now you can spend all your self-care nights fully moisturized in a cloud of whipped vanilla, musk, and soft caramel.
Promising review: "If I could give this 10 stars, I would. The consistency is perfection. It's thick, silky but not greasy, and the scent is dreamy. I think my skin cried when I put it on. I have only used it three times, but I have already ordered another jar so I don't run out!" — The Flying White Boxers
Get it from Amazon for $12.99.
3. A copy of Burn After Writing, a guided journal that tens of thousands of reviewers swear by — through a series of questions and thought experiments, it encourages people to take time away from their screens to explore their feelings, both new and old, so they can embrace meaningful ones and try to let others go.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "I first saw this book on TikTok and decided to look more into it. I purchased four total because I know some people holding onto things that are difficult to let go of. It's a great way to look at things from a different perspective and truly hold yourself accountable to different things in your life. I love what it stands for, and I look forward to when I burn mine after I'm done. Self-love, self-care, and meditation for a better state of mind tomorrow are always the goal. I definitely recommend it to those susceptible to change and the willingness to try things differently." — Brent Helm
Get it from Amazon for $7.70.
4. And No Worries: A Guided Journal designed to help with managing anxiety, stress, and the general "adkfjgaldkjfgalkj" in your brain. Each day has a similar set of prompts for 12 undated weeks to help you reflect on your thought patterns and sources of anxiety, and gradually find self-care practices and management strategies that suit you best.
Promising review:"I've never been a journal or diary person, but needed an outlet for my anxiety and stress. Each day has the same two-page spread that prompts you to think about your day, how you felt, and why you felt that way. There isn't really any inspiration or advice, just open lines for your thoughts without it being an intimidating blank page. This journal has already helped me see patterns in my thoughts/emotions and I feel better overall. I would recommend this journal to anyone." — Kari Madsen
Get it from Amazon for $9.95.
5. A set of reviewer-beloved aromatherapy shower steamers to help energize yourself at the start of the day or unwind at the end of one. Oh mighty grapefruit shower fizz ... please do for our sleepy brains what the snooze alarm could not!!!
Cleverfy is a small business that specializes in beauty, home, and self-care products.
Each kit comes with six shower steamers, including lavender, menthol with eucalyptus, vanilla, watermelon, grapefruit, and peppermint, with explanations for each scent's intended use. Read more about aromatherapy and stress and tension at Johns Hopkins.
Promising review:"The scents are amazing. The eucalyptus cleared my sinus and rejuvenated my whole being. The watermelon was sweet and enjoyable. My favorite is the lavender, that was so relaxing and left such an amazing scent with me and my bathroom the whole day." — fashiongirl
Get a pack of six from Amazon fo r $11.99 (available in five styles).
6. A set of delightfully ~~tingly~~ self-heating soothing foot masks made with Epsom salts, lavender, and peppermint perfect for anyone whose recent step count is "too many." Nothing like a lil' self-care on those aching feet to lift your spirits!
Check out a TikTok of the foot masks in action.
I'm a long-ish distance runner, and these were certainly an interesting experience for my feet! You slide them on and, after a few minutes, feel a tingling, mildly burning (in a good way) sensation. It doesn't quite numb your feet, but it relaxes them. I kept them on for 30 minutes and then toweled my feet off, and the tingling sensation slowly faded over the next 30 minutes. After that, my feet felt very refreshed and relaxed at a time of day when they're usually aching from all the miles I put in. The whole thing was a mess-free, easy process, and I will definitely keep them on hand for longer run days!
Promising review:"Very soothing. My husband and l used these on our European vacation, and they definitely felt good on our feet!" — KS2018
Get a set of three pairs from Amazon for $11.97.
7. A reviewer-beloved Cozy Spaces-themed coloring book featuring lil' bugs sleeping in upside down teacups, koalas snuggling in mushrooms, and all kinds of little critters reading, eating, and chilling in whimsical scenes.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Psst — Coco Wyo has a *ton* of other cozy stress relief coloring books with different themes in their Amazon storefront!
Another psst — you can pick up a cult-fave colored pencil set on Amazon.
Promising review: "This coloring book is a wonderful way to unwind and de-stress. The illustrations feature familiar, cozy corners that are both charming and relaxing to color. The designs are intricate enough to keep you engaged but not overly complicated, making it perfect for both adults and teens. The quality of the paper is great, holding up well to colored pencils, markers, and gel pens. I love how each page feels like a little escape, and coloring them has become a therapeutic routine." — Ali El-Khatib
Get it from Amazon for $7.99.
8. And a Through The Seasons Reverse Coloring Book, which is a newer edition of the original Reverse Coloring Book that took the internet by storm — reviewers swear by this easy, calming artistic outlet to help ease their anxiety, relieve stress, and unleash their inner creativity without taking up too much brainpower.
For those new to the concept — instead of adding the color to these, you add the lines to create images within the colors. Sort of like a Rorschach test, but make it whimsical.
Check out a TikTok of the reverse coloring book in action.
Promising review: "Kendra Norton's beautiful art books, Reverse Coloring books, have changed my world! My whole life, I thought I was not creative and therefore, had zero artistic ability. Now, this has become my favorite form of artistic expression. I turn on music and/or an audiobook and allow myself to go for an adventure outside of my mind, beyond my mind, if you will. T his has become my favorite way to process through difficult emotions and experiences I'm working through." — K. DeWitt
Get it from Amazon for $8.29.
(Psst — check out these cult-fave black fine point pens on Amazon for a good doodling option!)
9. A guided visual "breathing partner" you can use for meditation and calm to shift your mindset. This is designed to guide you through either the popular 4/7/8 or 5/5 "calming breaths" to help reduce stress and anxiety, using colors that fade in and out softly as cues. Bonus: it's kid-friendly!
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Mindset is a small business that specializes in calming personal care and decor products.
Promising review:"I started meditating over a decade ago. Intermittent in the beginning, progressing deeper, and finding new joys over time. With Breathing Buddha, the last thoughts have dropped away as counting breath always seemed to keep me conscious of, well, counting. Granted, I have always dropped the counting after a handful of breaths, but Breathing Buddha has made for a delightful transition as I realize it doesn't have to count at all. It is a lovely concept, well executed, and very easy to start using." — Lynn
Get it from Amazon for $22.95 (available in two styles).
10. An oh-so-snuggly Kindle, iPad, and phone lap pillow holder so you can stream content or read the latest fairy, dragon, and/or "dead girl found in the woods" book in the *ultimate* comfort. This can rotate and easily adjust the angle of the screen, and even comes with a little spot to hold a snack!
Promising review:"I love everything about this! Easy to use! Works great for phones or Kindles! Decently priced, lightweight, and very sturdy! The soft pillow provides a comfortable lap experience while reading!" — Kimberly
Get it from Amazon for $35.98.
11. Murdle, Volume 1, a true essential for anyone who relaxes to true crime podcasts or Only Murders in the Building. The book is full of 100 mystery-themed logic puzzles with four different levels of difficulty that they can do solo or with pals, and in order or out of order (although if they do it in order, they get the full scoop on Deductive Logico and Inspector Irratino, whose hilarious misadventures guide you through the book).
Check out a TikTok of Murdle in action.
The best part?? Once you finish "Murdling," you can use your sleuthing skills on Volume 2, Volume 3, and a whole BUNCH of other themed Murdle books!
Promising review: "The puzzles are a lot of fun but the characters, story lines, and other details take the Murdle experience to another level. I have no idea how the author came up with all of this creativeness! You can Murdle solo or with friends. I look forward to future volumes but this one will keep me busy for awhile!" — Liz Gately
Get it from Amazon for $10.25.
12. An oh-so-luxe set of tie-front satin PJs you will be SO glad you purchased when you're about to sweat bullets on humid nights and this cooling, breathable set is like, "Hey — I got you." These sets are so chic and affordable that a lot of friend groups get them to match for events, and even wear the tie-string top as a going out top!
Promising review: "It's always a gamble getting pajamas online, especially when they're supposed to be silky; sometimes you get that unyielding plastic-y feeling material. That's not the case with these! They're soft and flowy, and the ties in the front, while not Fort Knox, are still more secure than I thought they'd be. I'm definitely going to order in more colors." — Amazon Customer
Get them from Amazon for $28.99 (available in women's sizes XS–XXL and 27 colors and patterns).
13. A set of reviewer-beloved "Loops Quiet 2," aka the "ear plugs for people who hate ear plugs." These lightweight plugs are so subtle that people won't notice you wearing them, and are meticulously designed to muffle distracting, irritating, or overwhelming noise without completely blocking out the world around you. Reviewers love to wear them at the office or in noisy homes — this way they can still stay aware of your surroundings without getting overwhelmed by them.
Promising review:"These earplugs are so good!! I had originally bought a completely different brand (because I was being cheap) and let me tell you, you get what you pay for. I found these Loop earplugs and decided to give them a try and I'm so glad that I did! They are so comfortable! Made from silicone so they are flexible and fit great. I've slept with them in all night without issues. The noise cancelling is fantastic! Now does it block everything? No, but I think that's a good thing for safety reasons. They do block my husband's chainsaw snoring and that is exactly what I needed them to do." — melanie98837
Get it from Amazon for $19.95 (available in seven colors; check out Loop's Amazon Storefront for more options related to concerts, offices, and parenting!).
14. A mini Bob Ross paint-by-numbers kit for anyone on their "happy accidents" beat — this itty bitty set comes with everything you need to create three tiny masterpieces of your very own.
Amazon, www.amazon.com
The kit comes with three different numbered canvas designs, seven paint pots, a mini brush, and an easel.
Promising review: "I have to admit I was skeptical because of the price and size. However, I got these for my husband for his birthday (he loves Bob Ross) and what a find!! We had so much fun mixing colors and painting. Would definitely recommend. The fact that they are small makes them even more special. I wish there were more to paint!" — slb m
Get it from Amazon for $6.80.
15. A set of espresso martini instant cocktail tea bags — all the sophistication of tea, the zing! of coffee, and the 😜 of a cheeky cocktail. All you have to do is add three ounces of cold water, 1.5 ounces of hard liquor, and the tea sachet into a glass, and you'll have a delicious (far more AFFORDABLE!!) cocktail in one minutes.
Sayso is a small woman-owned business that specializes in the first-ever cocktail tea bag, perfect for cocktails *and* mocktails.
Promising review: "I was a bit skeptical when I purchased, but these are actually fantastic. The taste is great and the bags make it incredibly easy to mix up what would otherwise be complex cocktails quickly and easily. I've had the spicy marg, espresso martini, and old fashioned versions, and while they aren't exactly the same as the original they are wonderful for making yourself a cocktail at home. Highly recommend." — Meredith
Get a pack of eight from Amazon for $14.99 (available in six other cocktail styles and larger packs).
16. Biodance's TikTok-beloved Bio-Collagen Real Deep Mask for an overnight ~refresh~ to help firm skin, boost elasticity, and minimize pores. Reviewers mention noticing a visible difference even after one use! You are about to become the definition of "I woke up like this" ✨.
Most reviewers recommend doing this treatment once per week.
Promising review: "Caught wind of this on TikTok and decided to give it a whirl. Honestly, it's pretty solid! It really makes my skin look tight and shiny, like I just came out of a professional facial. It's an overnight mask, so yeah, it does have to stay on for a while, which is a bit of a hassle, but the payoff? Totally worth it. My skin feels more elastic, and the pores look minimized too. If you don't mind the long wear time, this mask could be a game changer for your skincare routine!" — Nala
Get a set of four from Amazon for $19 (also available in a set of 16).
17. An "Everyday Mindfulness"-themed word search book full of unique, relaxing puzzles designed to keep you engaged without stressing you out.
Amazon, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "This is exactly what I was looking for! It lays flat to easily complete the word search and not have to fight with the book. There are different types of puzzles, and some have extra secret searches! It's great for the slow days at work!! I will definitely be buying more of these word searches!" — Roy Y Hahn
Get it from Amazon for $11.68.
18. A lightweight, expandable bamboo bathtub caddy to turn your boring bathroom into a veritable spa. Pinot? Poured. Candle? Lit. Netflix? Queued. Now, all you have to do is calmly explain to their loved ones that you live in a tub now.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Bambusi is a small business that specializes in quality made home products.
Promising review:"Surprisingly sturdy and well made. Assembly and construction is excellent, and the accessories are quite clever. On balance, the tray is impressive and well worth its cost. A thoughtful gift, especially for anyone who likes to relax in the tub, but not without their accessories and a glass of wine." — Barry
Get it from Amazon for $32.99+ (available in four colors).
19. Plus a cordless portable bath jet spa, which is the fastest way to turn any boring bathtub into a hotel-worthy oasis — simply attach this under the spout and you can activate "jet mode" or "bubble mode" and live your best, bougiest bath life.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "This lil' thing rocks! I didn't think it would be as powerful as it is, but my tub time now is sooo relaxing. It makes bubbles well and soothes you with that jet stream. If you like to soak for your health. I highly recommend this lil' powerhouse. Worth every penny." — TabbiJCMA
Get it from Amazon for $75.99 (available in three colors).
20. And a bottle of sensitive skin-friendly Honest Company lavender bubble bath reviewers are obsessed with because the bubbles are GINORMOUS and super long-lasting. Rumor has it Glinda came down in a bubble made from this very bubble bath blend.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "We love this brand and have been using this bubble bath for years. Just two squirts fills out tubs with a ton of bubbles. I love the ingredients list and it gives off a pleasant scent. Definitely will continue using this bubble bath for years to come!" — Stephanie
Get it from Amazon for $12.97+ (available in four scents).
21. A mini weighted blanket perfect for people who want a quick dose of calm and relaxation, but don't want to overheat or commit to the whole heavy shebang of a full-size weighted blanket. This one's the perfect size to easily drape over yourself on the couch.
Amazon, www.amazon.com
Read more about how to choose a weight and what these blankets help with and how from Cleveland Clinic.
Promising review:"I love weighted blankets, but I always get way too hot with them. This is perfect because I can cover up the half of my body that I want the weighted feeling on while the rest do my body gets to stay cool. It is perfect for me." — Patricia Newt
Get it from Amazon for $28.99+ (available in three weights and four colors).
22. " The Peckish Pirates," a brand spanking new addition to the cult-favorite Magic Puzzle series so beloved on TikTok. Like the others before it, this isn't just a puzzle, but a whimsically illustrated, colorful journey — there are tons of Easter eggs in it, a collection of miniature scenes full of optical illusions and surprises, *plus* a magical twist at the end. You'll have to solve the puzzle to find out!
Promising review:"Another stellar puzzle from Magic Puzzle Company, featuring high-quality pieces, a hidden final image, and a unique solving experience. The artwork is full of detail, making it an immersive and engaging build. The pieces fit together snugly, with no puzzle dust, and the final reveal adds an element of surprise. If you're looking for a high-quality puzzle that's more than just a standard jigsaw, this one is worth every penny." — Baloptimus
Get it from Amazon for $22.99 (and check out the DELIGHTFUL assortment of Magic Puzzles for more options!).
23. A simple silicone bread maker that proves you don't need any know-how or complicated instructions to make delicious bread at home — in fact, you can mix the ingredients right into the silicone maker and pop it right into the oven. (A bunch of easy recipes are included to prove it!)
www.amazon.com
Promising review:"This is a must have. Best lazy bread making experience you'll ever have! Put everything into one container and then cook it in the same container! When you wash it, everything slips off with no scrubbing needed. The brioche recipe rivals fresh bread served at restaurants." — FutureMrsBLW
Get it from Amazon for $32.01.
24. A handy adjustable neck reading light so you have to let the sun and/or the humans living with you decide when their Designated Reading Time is over. This flexible neck light comes with three brightnesses that all keep the focus on the page, so you can keep the strain off your eyeballs without disturbing anyone else's darkness.
Amazon
Reviewers also swear by these for crafts with fine detail work, like painting and embroidery.
Promising review:"I had seen this product from someone I follow on TikTok, and they have a great review on it. I absolutely love it!! I t's great because it hangs around your neck and it's lightweight. It has three different light settings on it, so you can choose what is best for your eyes. And it also has a 30-minute timer you can set in case you fall asleep, so it will go off and you don't have to worry about it staying on the whole time. I highly recommend it!!" — Tabatha C.
Get it from Amazon for $21.99 (available in eight colors).
25. A personal popcorn popper from BuzzFeed's Tasty line so compact, affordable, and easy to use that you might just want to equip every room in your home with one. All you have to do is fill the kernels up to the max fill line and let it do its magic. It even has a built-in measuring cup you can use as a butter warming tray!
Promising review: "Everyone needs one. This makes the best popcorn. It is so easy to use and so fast. And it is healthy for you so that is a plus." — Kate
Get it from Amazon for $17.99 (available in four colors).
26. A facial steamer that's basically as close as you can get to bringing a mini hot spring right into your home. This uses a specialized nano-ionic steam to gently and far more effectively penetrate the skin, giving you the glowy refresh and oh-so-calming spa vibe that you deserve, for a FRACTION of the price.
This also comes with a stainless steel tool kit for skin extractions, but be sure to use those only if you've been properly educated on them to avoid damaging your skin!
Promising review: "I absolutely love this product. I purchased it when I was congested because I wanted to use steam to break up congestion. This steamer felt amazing. It definitely helped with my congestion and it opened up my pores too. I used the skin tool kit and that worked great as well. I love that this comes with so many settings including a humidifier and towel warmer as well. This was an absolute game changer for me and I highly recommend it." — Amazon Customer
Get it from Amazon for $39.95 (available in teal or silver).
27. A pickling starter kit complete with everything you need to start fermenting small batches of INFINITE delicious things, from the traditional cucumbers and onions to yummy sauerkraut and kimchi to adventurous watermelon and mango. 😋 (If you've never had pickled mango before ... THANK ME LATER.)
Amazon
Fermentaholics is a small business that specializes in pickling and kombucha starter kits.
Promising review: "This kit is great for first timers or experienced, and makes DELICIOUS pickles, or pickled anything for that matter. Pickles, carrots, onions, asparagus. The instructions are easy to follow and understand. Will be buying as gifts for my pickle loving friends and more for myself. Makes me want to try the other products this company offers." — KelF
Get it from Amazon for $16.49.
28. A 5-pound bucket of Crayola Air Dry Clay to let you finally follow your inner pottery dreams without all the mess and effort of taking classes. After you pull the clay out to shape it, it'll harden on its own — no oven or any effort required! From there you can leave it as is or paint over it for a fun vibe.
www.amazon.com
Psst — a lot of reviewers use silicone or plastic molds to get specific shapes!
Promising review: "It's honestly just a really nice material to work with! If you want to create things with clay, this is definitely a good choice! It's definitely not for professional use, but I feel like that's a given? I mean, it is Crayola. But all in all, great for those who want to use it for fun!" — Amazon Customer
Get it from Amazon for $10.96.
29. Small Batch Cookies, tailor made for folks who live alone *or* for people who want to broaden their baking horizons, but don't want to deal with the mess of big batches (or the leftovers!). This book takes you through a bunch of delicious recipes for one to six people using minimal equipment, so you can have hassle-free treats and live your most delicious life.
Amazon, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "Edd Kimber is so creative with his bakes, and this book is full of fun and interesting cookie recipes. love the flavors in this book...subtle and layered. Baking small batches is surprisingly liberating. Most ingredients are on hand and I'm not stressing about what to do with large quantities of cookies. With small amounts, it feels easier to play and experiment." — Monica
Get it from Amazon for $20.10.
30. A compact, beginner-friendly watercolor palette that comes with everything you need to start creating your own masterpieces you can use to decorate your walls in the coziest, most colorful way imaginable — especially with 100 (!!) colors to choose from.
www.amazon.com
Each set comes with a 100-color palette, a sketch pencil, a sponge, a swatch sheet, and three water brush pens.
Promising review:"Love collecting watercolor sets, and this one is amazing — so many exquisite colors to paint with. Creativity is everything, and imagination with all these colors is unlimited. Pure happiness!" — pve
Get it from Amazon for $32.99.
31. A set of reviewer-beloved chocolate bar molds for anyone who dreams of DIY-ing their ultimate dessert. These are great for mix-ins like nuts and cereal, but also have enough depth for you to add fillings like peanut butter, jam, and caramel.
www.amazon.com, Amazon
Promising review:"I used these molds to create homemade Nestle Crunch bars. It was easy to load these molds. I placed them on baking sheets and banged them on the counter to remove air bubbles, then loaded into fridge/freeze r. The molds are compact enough that they fit easily into my side-by-side fridge. I did not add any release agents to the molds before using, and the chocolate bars popped out very easily." — Keith G.
Get it from Amazon for $9.99 (available in 12 other styles).
32. An ultimate "girl dinner" plate — okay, technically a cheeseboard, but HEAR ME OUT. This labeled board is the *gremlin's kiss* perfect size for a human who wants to curl up with a Netflix rom-com alone and eat sharp cheddar cheese, Ritz crackers, and stuffed olives on a Friday night.
Amazon
Bonus: it's blank on the other side if you want to flip it over and use it for entertaining!
Promising review: "Perfect. The charcuterie board looks exactly like the picture. I am very happy with it." — Joetta Adgate
Get it from Amazon for $15.41.
33. A tear-off daily self-care calendar for a gentle way to start your day and still keep it productive and fulfilling — this has space not just for a to-do list, but affirmations, things you're thankful for, reflections, meals, and plans for self-care.
Amazon
Bliss Collections is a family-owned, Wisconsin-based business established in 2012 that specializes in stationery, planners and pads, and drinkware.
Promising review:"I got this for my mental health when I was in a really bad place mentally, and I was trying to figure out why I was having so many panic attacks. This made me feel on top of stuff and gave me something to look forward to. Super cute, super cheap, and it makes me happy." — katelyn
Get a 50-sheet pad from Amazon for $9.99.
Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.
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- Health Line
‘McMigraine': Does TikTok's Coke and Fries Hack Actually Work for Migraine?
TikTok users are touting a migraine hack involving McDonald's fries and a Coke to relieve their symptoms. Experts say the combination of salt, sugar, and caffeine may provide temporary relief from migraine. However, processed foods high in sodium, fat, and sugar may worsen migraine symptoms and contribute to long-term health problems. Several strategies may support migraine relief, such as magnesium and omega-3s. It's estimated that 39 million people in the United States experience migraine. If you're one of them, you may have heard of the 'McMigraine meal,' a proposed migraine relief hack trending on social media platforms like TikTok that involves consuming McDonald's fries and a Coke. A migraine is more than just a bad headache. It's a complex neurological condition often accompanied by intense, throbbing pain, sensitivity to light and sound, and nausea, which can be debilitating. While there are medications available to prevent and treat migraine, they don't work for everyone. When a migraine attack hits, most people will do anything to feel better, even if it means consuming ultraprocessed foods like fries and a soda laden with sugar. Here's how the McMigraine trend works, and what experts think about its supposed benefits. A McMigraine meal: Not a reliable cure Kezia Joy, registered dietitian and medical advisor at Welzo, said it's important to distinguish between anecdotal evidence and clinical recommendations for any ailment, including migraine. 'Although the concept may be based on real-life experiences, it's not grounded in clinical research. It may provide temporary solace for some, but it's not something that should be in anyone's regular or safe migraine treatment repertoire,' she told Healthline. Likewise, specialist registered dietitian Nichola Ludlam-Raine agreed, cautioning that fries and a Coke are not a reliable treatment. 'While I completely understand that people living with migraine may be desperate to try anything that offers relief, this isn't a strategy I'd recommend trying frequently from a nutritional or clinical perspective,' she told Healthline. McMigraine benefits are short-lived Many people have claimed a McMigraine meal helped relieve their migraine symptoms. Is there any plausible scientific reason why salty fries and a sugary drink might offer temporary relief for some people with migraine? Joy noted a few physiological reasons why someone might experience temporary relief after eating salty, high carb foods and drinking caffeine. 'Caffeine, which is present in Coke, constricts blood vessels, and in some forms of migraines, it can relieve pain,' Joy explained. 'At the same time, high-salt or high-carbohydrate foods may aid in correcting a mild electrolyte or blood sugar imbalance,' she continued. 'If a person has missed a meal or is just a little dehydrated, the fries and soda may provide temporary relief.' Ludlam-Raine shared a similar synopsis of the potential benefits of a McMigraine meal. 'Migraines can be triggered or worsened by low blood sugar, dehydration, or electrolyte imbalances, and so salty fries may help the body retain fluid, while the caffeine and sugar in a Coke could raise blood sugar and offer a quick boost in alertness or energy,' she pointed out. Ultimately, though, Ludlam-Raine said the benefits are likely to be short-lived and won't address the root cause of the problem. In fact, for some people with migraine, the combination of salt, sugar, and caffeine could worsen their symptoms. 'High-fat and salt foods can be problematic for others, especially if their migraines are linked to dietary triggers or underlying conditions like high blood pressure,' Ludlam-Raine noted. Does a McMigraine meal have any risks? The potential to worsen migraine symptoms aside, there are other risks to consider when using unhealthy foods as a migraine cure. 'Fast food may be convenient, but it can also be high in sodium, saturated fats, and added sugars,' Joy said. 'If consuming it becomes habitual, it can create inflammation in the body, which in turn, can make headaches worse over time.' There are other long-term health risks to consider, too. 'Relying on fast food regularly may contribute to long-term health issues like weight gain, insulin resistance, high blood pressure, and poor gut health, all of which can potentially worsen migraine frequency or severity,' Ludlam-Raine said. Additionally, it may discourage people from addressing triggers and other factors that contribute to migraine attacks.' 'Excessive reliance on fast food as a fix can also skirt any underlying health issues that need to be diagnosed and treated,' Joy pointed out. 'Relying on it instead of seeking out treatments that work and are sustainable isn't good. It's also important to see food in the context of your entire lifestyle, not as a quick fix.' Evidence-based migraine interventions There are many strategies for managing a migraine that don't involve ordering from a McDonald's drive-thru. Joy said there are some specific nutrients you should look out for, such as magnesium. 'It's present in leafy greens and nuts, is involved in nerve functions, and can reduce the frequency of migraine in some people,' she explained. Other nutrients may offer some relief from migraine as well. 'Riboflavin-rich foods (vitamin B2) and co-enzyme Q10 have also been investigated for their potential benefits,' Joy said. 'Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fatty fish, may also reduce inflammation and support brain health.' According to Ludlam-Raine, other ways to prevent and manage migraine include: staying hydrated throughout the day eating regular, balanced meals that include slow-release carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats to maintain steady blood sugar levels avoiding specific triggers like aged cheese, alcohol, or artificial sweeteners keeping a food and symptom diary to identify personal patterns While certain wellness strategies can help prevent migraine, they may not be able to stop one in progress, which could explain why some people have turned to a McMigraine meal for relief. Clinical treatment for a migraine generally involves both acute and preventive options. 'Drugs, including triptans, CGRP inhibitors, and some anti-seizure and blood pressure drugs, can help some people,' Joy said. 'Non-pharmacologic treatments, like biofeedback, cognitive behavioral therapy, and neuromodulation devices, can also be effective.' Migraine symptoms can be debilitating, and when they strike, it may be tempting to seek the quickest and most convenient intervention. For some, that might be McDonald's fries and a Coke.
Yahoo
2 hours ago
- Yahoo
Millions more to get test results via NHS app, government says
The NHS app will become the default method of communication for millions more patients in England and save the health service £200m over the next three years, the government has said. More test results, screening invitations and appointment reminders will be sent directly to smartphones as part of a £50m investment in the app, in a move away from traditional communication methods such as letters. It is estimated that at least 50 million letters are sent to patients each year. The Department of Health and Social Care said that people who cannot access app messaging - including elderly patients - will receive text messages and then a letter as a last resort, and NHS phone lines would be freed up. The department says 270 million messages will be sent through the NHS app this financial year - an increase of 70 million on the previous year. Push notifications will provide appointment reminders to patients to try to reduce the risk of no attendance - with around eight million missed appointments in elective care missed in 2023/24. Work is also under way to enable users of the app to add appointments to their phone calendars and request help from their local GP surgeries. Figures show that more than 11 million people in the UK log into the NHS app every month, while almost 20 million are opted in to receive healthcare messages from the app. It is hoped the changes will give patients better access to manage their healthcare journey and make informed decisions about their care. NHS app services, which were launched in December 2018, are now used in 87% of hospitals across England. Health Secretary Wes Streeting said further investment in the app would bring the NHS into the digital age so that being a patient was as "convenient as online banking or ordering a takeaway". He added that moving away from paper communication could free up funding for front line services. Rachel Power, chief executive of the Patient's Association, said the upgrade was a "significant step in modernising how patients receive information". The British Medical Association (BMA) has previously warned that a reliance on apps to the NHS to communicate with patients risked alienating patients who don't have access to digital technology. It followed the government's announcement in January that it planned to allow more patients in England to book treatments and appointments through the app. Last month, NHS England announced millions of patients would be able to get "Amazon-style" tracking updates on their prescriptions through the app, to check if their medicines are ready to collect or have been despatched for delivery. New app trial cuts skin cancer referrals by 50% NHS App upgrade to give patients more choice over treatment Patients to get full access to record on NHS App


Buzz Feed
3 hours ago
- Buzz Feed
30 Korean Skincare Products For Common Skin Problems
An Anua pore-clearing cleansing oil that visibly sucks out sebum from your pores and removes makeup residue and blackheads, leaving your skin looking clearer and feeling smoother. Reviewers of all skin types swear by it, including those with acne-prone skin (who say it doesn't cause breakouts)! And their deep cleansing foam, which dives deep into your pores, gently whisking away gunk and removing dead skin cells. As with their oil cleanser, heartleaf extract is the magic ingredient here, and it's all about calming things down, reducing inflammation, and keeping your skin feeling soothed and pampered long after you've rinsed off. *Plus* another gem from Anua: Their heartleaf daily toner pads made with PHA to gently exfoliate and remove dead skin cells while also helping to reduce blackheads, whiteheads, and breakouts. A "lifting" essence that reviewers on TikTok are referring to as "Botox in a bottle." It's made with NAD+, which can help boost cell turnover and stimulate collagen production, along with 50 types of peptides to help plump and firm your skin. With a stretchy texture that's similar to snail mucin but thicker, this gem can help make fine lines and wrinkles less noticeable in four weeks! A SeoulCeuticals toner mist made with 98% naturally derived ingredients like refreshing cucumber, antioxidant-rich green tea, tamarind, soothing aloe, and rejuvenating marine minerals for a perfect dose of dewy radiance. This powerhouse mist not only hydrates and plumps your skin but also works its magic on blemishes, helping keep those pesky breakouts at bay. A color corrector that starts off green but then blends seamlessly into your skin like magic, neutralizing any redness. It's packed with Centella asiatica extract, which is well-known in Korea for its calming and soothing properties. Plus, with glycerin in the mix, your face stays hydrated and glowing all day long. It's a great tool for evening out redness on no-makeup days, or layering under your foundation for an even more polished look! A popular pack of Skin1004 pore tightening and lifting masks if you don't mind looking like a zombie for 15 minutes in exchange for your skin being deeply hydrated and dead skin cells being removed. A lightweight Cosrx mild gel cleanser that's gentle enough for you to lather up and have that fresh face feeling every day. This pH-balanced face wash won't disrupt your skin, which could lead to all sorts of problems like dryness, oiliness, and breakouts. It also contains BHA (a type of exfoliant that unclogs pores) and tea tree oil (which has antibacterial properties that zip zits). Or The Face Shop's facial foaming cleanser for the folks with skin that's more sensitive than a toddler during nap time. You need only a tiny bit to create a rich lather that'll cleanse your face like a dream without irritating or drying it out. Plus, it's packed with rice water, which is amazing for brightening up your complexion. A Mizon snail repair cream made to reduce the appearance of fine lines and dark spots. It contains raspberry extract, AHA, and mugwort extract to help your skin feel smoother and more rejuvenated than ever. A cute little Tonymoly octopus-shaped blackhead remover that rids your nose and chin of all the gunk that's built up throughout the day and exfoliates pores, making your skin look smoother and cleaner. A pack of popular Cosrx pimple patches to shrink your problems overnight. Ok, I'm not talking student loans or awkward first date type of problems, but they do help with pimples! These patches not only cover up your zits but also suck out all the gross gunk, leaving your skin looking fresh and clear. A fast-working calming cream by Dear, Klairs with a natural extract from chamomile oil that hydrates the skin and helps relieve redness. It can be good to use after laser treatment, long-term sun exposure, or post-shaving. A Cosrx blackhead remover liquid with 4% BHA so you can kiss those old-fashioned pore strips goodbye and say hello to a smoother complexion. This magical potion turns into a bubbly foam that penetrates deep into your pores, removing dirt and impurities. A Some by Mi Miracle toner reviewers say really helped with their acne-prone skin. This toner contains tea tree and AHA/BHA to exfoliate the skin and improve texture. The cult-favorite Cosrx Snail Mucin Power Essence, honestly a game changer for anyone dealing with dry or damaged skin. Its formula is 96.3% snail secretion, which might sound a bit wild, but it's pure magic for skin rejuvenation, banishing dullness and dehydration while bringing back that much-needed vitality — all without leaving you feeling sticky. No wonder it has over 66,000 5-star ratings! Or a slimy Mixsoon Bean Essence that hydrates and exfoliates your skin at the same dang time. 🤯 This thick (but not sticky) essence contains natural ingredients like fermented bean, barley, and pomegranate to remove dead skin cells and revitalize skin tone. The Saem hydrating eye stick, a perfect remedy for dehydrated skin. This eye treatment is made with Icelandic glacier water, giving your skin the fresh hydration boost it needs on days when you've hit the snooze button one too many times. An Elizavecca carbonated clay mask here to remove all the built-up sebum from your face without stripping away your skin's natural oils. Reviewers say after using this their skin feels super clean and irresistibly soft — you won't be able to resist touching it! Medicube's collagen jelly that's basically "glass skin" in a jar. It's packed with hydrolyzed collagen, which means the collagen is broken down into smaller segments for better skin absorption, keeping your skin firm and elastic. Plus, it's got niacinamide (vitamin B3), which enhances your skin's barrier function and boosts hydration, giving you that perfect texture and 24-hour glow. A cleansing balm complete with a handy lil' spatula, offering a hygienic way to scoop out just the right amount of product without dipping your fingers in the jar. Reviewers love the silky smooth texture and that it truly melts away makeup and sunscreen. Plus, it naturally brightens your complexion while helping to control oil! A bottle of rice toner in case you need a little extra help with hydration, especially if you live in a dry environment. This toner gives the skin a lovely illuminating effect while also improving its protective moisture barrier. An amazing enzyme peel powder that works double duty as both a cleanser and an exfoliator. The powder-to-foam formula contains two exfoliating green tea enzymes that lift all the debris and gunk from your pores without any harsh scrubbing. It also has hyaluronic acid to help lock in hydration, leaving your face smooth and supple. A Nooni tinted appleberry lip oil if you ever wanted a lip product that's not too sticky or thick but still gives a subtle pop of color. Not only does this oil give you a beautiful tint, but it's also nourishing for dry, flaky lips. A TikTok-viral all-in-one beauty balm for those dry areas on your face and body that could use a little extra love. Packed with collagen and a natural fermented oil straight from Jeju Island, this balm is like a loving hug for your skin, giving it a 48-hour moisture boost and lifting effect. The Laneige lip mask, aka a little spa treatment for your lips while you snooze away. This mask is packed with antioxidants and nourishing ingredients like coconut oil, shea butter, and murumuru butter. You'll have the sweetest of dreams knowing you're waking up with soft, supple lips. A Krave Beauty matcha hemp cleanser that's like a big, refreshing sip of green tea for your skin. This hydrating gel formula gives your face that fresh, clean feeling without any tightness. A rejuvenating Bifida Biome Complex ampoule containing five types of probiotics that work overtime to strengthen your skin barrier, with 10 types of hyaluronic acid for deep hydration. This ampoule is like a super quick-absorbing potion that your skin just drinks up, leaving you feeling refreshed and glowing. One reviewer even compares it to the Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair serum, which costs over $100 for the same amount. An Anua niacinamide serum that also contains 4% tranexamic acid and 2% arbutin, working together like a dream team to tackle dull skin. It soothes, hydrates, and helps strengthen your skin barrier to leave it feeling super soft and bouncy. *Plus* it helps reduce the appearance of pores, brighten dark spots, and even out your skin tone! And finally, Medicube's Mini Booster Pro — a more compact version of the splurgey OG, featuring the same Booster Mode for better product absorption and utilizing both blue and red LED light therapy to help soothe and calm your skin, leaving it radiant. This compact skincare companion is perfect for travel, and like the Age-R Booster Pro, it can be synced with the Age-R app.