Texas probes medical school's use of bodies without consent following NBC News investigation
This article is part of 'Dealing the Dead,' a series investigating the use of unclaimed bodies for medical research.
Texas state regulators are investigating a medical school's failure to notify surviving family members before cutting up and leasing out the bodies of their loved ones.
The Texas Funeral Service Commission notified the University of North Texas Health Science Center on Oct. 18 that it was opening an investigation into the center's body donation program, according to a letter obtained by reporters this week through a public records request.
The notice of complaint was issued one month after NBC News published an investigation revealing that the Fort Worth-based center had dissected, studied and leased out hundreds of unclaimed bodies without prior consent from the dead or any survivors.
The center's failure to obtain permission from next of kin before using corpses for medical research — and its refusal to immediately release remains to survivors who came forward later — may have violated state law, Funeral Service Commission investigator Rudy Villarreal wrote in the letter addressed to the Health Science Center's president, Sylvia Trent-Adams, who has since resigned. Villarreal also alleged that the center failed to get permission from regulators before shipping bodies and body parts across state lines.
The Funeral Service Commission, which regulates body donation in the state, has the power to issue fines against programs for violations. In a statement Wednesday, the agency confirmed the investigation is ongoing.
Health Science Center spokesperson Andy North said the center has been 'working diligently to ensure a complete and accurate production' of documents requested as part of the probe.
The Funeral Service Commission investigation is part of a cascade of changes and official actions triggered by NBC News' reporting. The news organization discovered dozens of families who said they would have claimed their loved ones' bodies and given them proper funerals if they had been told about their deaths. Some were still searching for their relatives, unaware that they had died. The dead included military veterans, people who struggled with drug addiction and homelessness, and a young murder victim.
The Health Science Center shipped many of the bodies and body parts to out-of-state medical schools, device makers and health care education companies — charging $649 for a head, $900 for a torso, $703 for a pair of legs.
In response to the reporters' findings, the Health Science Center announced in September that it was suspending its body donation program, firing the officials who led it and hiring a consultant to review the program's operations. North issued a statement last fall apologizing to the affected families.
Dallas and Tarrant counties — which had provided the Health Science Center with more than 2,300 unclaimed bodies under contracts dating back to 2019 — ended their agreements with the center. Device makers, research companies and other groups that had relied on the center for bodies — including Boston Scientific and the U.S. Army — canceled or re-evaluated their business relationships with the program. And last week, a Texas state senator introduced a bill to ban the use of unclaimed bodies without consent.
In its October letter, the Funeral Service Commission asked the Health Science Center to turn over documents related to the operation of its body donation program and set a 15-day deadline to comply. North said the Health Science Center was later granted a 45-day extension and has been providing records on a monthly rolling basis.
So far, the center has turned over more than 1,800 documents, a Funeral Service Commission official said.
Separately, the commission sent the Health Science Center a cease-and-desist letter in November ordering it to end its practice of disposing of corpses by liquefying them through a process commonly referred to as water cremation, which the commission said is illegal in Texas.
In its official response to the commission, sent Dec. 4, the Health Science Center defended its use of water cremations, which are formally known as alkaline hydrolysis, but said it had already halted the practice in September.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
NBC News
15 hours ago
- NBC News
We tested 50+ foundations — these are the very best for acne-prone skin
At NBC Select, we're pro flaunting your natural skin. But sometimes, you want a little coverage, especially when you have acne. Plenty of our acne-prone editors — myself included — reach for foundation to cover up breakouts, redness and dark spots, but finding one that won't aggravate acne can be as hard as treating breakouts themselves. It can feel like a never-ending cycle: You apply foundation to make new and existing breakouts less visible, but that same product may be what's preventing you from being pimple-free. So, how exactly do you cover up your acne without causing even more breakouts? Our acne-prone editors put more than 50 foundations to the test to see which ones were the most gentle and safe for acne. I also spoke to dermatologists, makeup artists and cosmetic chemists about how to shop for acne-safe foundation that'll even out your skin without causing or worsening breakouts. How I picked the best foundations for acne-prone skin As I considered acne-safe foundations to test, the experts I spoke to recommended keeping the following factors in mind: Ingredients: Pay attention to both labels and ingredient lists. Look for foundations labeled noncomedogenic, meaning they're less likely to clog pores and cause breakouts, and oil-free. Expert-recommended and acne-safe ingredients to look for in your foundation include niacinamide (anti-inflammatory), hyaluronic acid (hydrating), zinc oxide (mineral SPF ingredient that calms skin), and aloe vera (soothing). Some foundations may have acne-fighting ingredients like salicylic acid, but keep in mind these can be slightly drying, especially when paired with acne spot treatments. Avoid heavy and occlusive ingredients that can clog pores, like coconut oil, lanolin, cocoa butter, sodium lauryl sulfate and heavy silicones, says Dr. Robyn Gmyrek, a board-certified dermatologist at Unionderm in New York City. Formulation: Consider lightweight and buildable light to medium coverage foundations (typically liquid or gel consistencies) because they won't settle into your pores and emphasize texture. Thicker foundations are more likely to trap oil and trigger acne, says Gmyrek (though if you have severe acne and need a more full coverage foundation, make sure it's noncomedogenic and oil-free). Powder foundations are great for those with oily skin because they usually have a higher concentration of oil-absorbing ingredients, like silica, kaolin, and magnesium carbonate, says cosmetic chemist Kelly Dobos. Finish: Consider a foundation with a matte or natural finish because they'll usually control shine and reduce the appearance of texture or bumps, says Los Angeles-based professional makeup artist Gilbert Soliz. Coverage: Though coverage is important to reduce the appearance of acne, the key is buildability. Look for a lightweight foundation that you can gradually layer to build coverage without it getting cakey or clinging to dry/textured patches on your skin, experts say. How we tested the best foundations for acne-prone skin Eight NBC Select editors, many of whom have sensitive, acne-prone skin or deal with occasional breakouts, tested 50+ foundations over a month to find the best ones that cover up and won't cause breakouts, inflammation or redness. Here's what our editors kept in mind as they tested each foundation: Coverage: We considered how well each foundation covered existing acne and inflammation day and night. Most editors reached for lighter, more breathable coverage during the day, and a medium to full coverage foundation at night. We weighed the degree of coverage against the comfort and feel of the foundation throughout the day. Formulation and finish: We considered various formulations, including powders, liquids, creams and sticks. We also kept in mind the 'finish' of each foundation, which has to do with how it sits on your skin. There are three main finishes: matte (for a shine-free look and best for oily or combination skin types), dewy (for a hydrated look and best for dry skin) and natural (for a more 'skin-like' look). Comfort and feel: We kept in mind how the foundation generally felt on our skin after at least a few hours, and whether it was lightweight and worked for all-day wear based on expert guidance. Longevity: Most editors applied each foundation at the start of the day (typically before work), and kept in mind how long coverage lasted on their skin throughout the day. Since the experts I spoke to say a good foundation should last for eight to 12 hours before it starts flaking off or looking cakey, we made note of how many hours we were able to wear each foundation. We also kept in mind factors that could affect longevity, including sun exposure and sweat. Activity: Editors put these foundations through a range of activities and environments to test coverage and longevity, including 8+ hours at work, while walking 10K+ steps in New York City, strolling in states with 90+ degree heat, out dancing at nightclubs and while working out. Shade ranges: We tested foundations on multiple skin tones, which means we paid extra attention to the brand's shade offerings. We noted if shade ranges were limited, or if they didn't quite match up to our individual skin tones. Packaging: We considered how comfortable the foundation is to apply: Most used either a brush or makeup sponge to apply each foundation, while a select few used their hands. We also made note of the overall appearance of the foundation and whether we would proudly display it on our bathroom counter (or keep it stowed away). Want more from NBC Select? Sign up for our newsletter, The Selection, and shop smarter. The best foundations for acne-prone skin I rounded up the best foundations for acne-prone skin, all of which were tested and reviewed by NBC Select editors. Best overall: Armani Beauty Luminous Silk Natural Glow Foundation What we like: Buildable coverage; Lightweight; Oil-free Something to note: Expensive The Armani Luminous Silk foundation has one of the best consistencies I've ever felt in a foundation. It feels almost like a lightweight serum rather than a traditional foundation, but it doesn't compromise on coverage: It manages to cover my redness and pimples without even looking like I'm wearing foundation. In fact, I used this foundation in college when I was struggling with moderate to severe acne, and it was the only one that didn't look cakey or emphasize texture. It does provide lighter coverage than most other high-end foundations, but it manages to almost entirely cover up mild to moderate acne, according to NBC Select editors. Our reviewers agreed one of the best parts about this foundation is its finish — it creates a super smooth, even base and leaves skin with a natural glow. This foundation has been a go-to for NBC Select editorial operations associate Jem Alabi. 'It genuinely becomes part of my skin when I wear it. It's light, smooth and blends easily,' she says. However, Alabi says most of the shades tend to have a red/orange undertone, so it may be hard to match if you have olive/yellow undertones. UGC CAPTION: The Armani Luminous Silk foundation is pricey, but well worth the splurge due to its lightweight, serum-like consistency and natural finish. ALT TEXT: Side by side of woman with no makeup and same woman with the Armani Beauty foundation Courtesy Mili Godio What we like: Acne-fighting ingredients; Medium coverage Something to note: Can be drying Clinique's Acne Solutions line comes recommended by both Gmyrek and Dobos because it's oil-free and has salicylic acid to help unclog pores. It's also a favorite among our NBC Select editors, who say the foundation's medium coverage helps cover up pesky breakouts and dark spots. 'Whenever I hear a foundation has claims of skin care benefits, I'm immediately skeptical, but despite all that, I still enjoyed using the Clinique foundation,' says NBC Select associate SEO reporter Ashley Morris. 'The bottle's soft matte packaging had me a bit wary of the shade, but it turned out to be a very close match, and the formula was so lightweight that it was hard to tell I was even wearing makeup after the first layer.' However, Morris says she'd recommend this to people who prefer minimal coverage since she was still able to see some darker blemishes even after applying two layers. 'While I'm not 100% sold on its acne-fighting properties — I still had the occasional bump or pimple pop up while testing — I would definitely wear this formula again,' says Morris. CAPTION: This foundation has fairly minimal coverage, but the skin care benefits can give those with acne-prone skin some peace of mind. ALT TEXT: Before and after of woman wearing no makeup and same woman wearing Clinique foundation Courtesy Ashley Morris Since it has salicylic acid, those with acne-prone skin have some peace of mind that it's not less likely to break them out, but will also play a role in getting rid of pimples. However, keep in mind that salicylic acid can be drying, so you might notice some flakiness and dry patches when wearing this foundation if you have dry skin, or if you're using other acne-fighting active ingredients that already dry out the skin (like benzoyl peroxide or retinoids). UGC CAPTION: This Clinique foundation is great for those looking for medium coverage and an acne treatment all in one. ALT TEXT: Side by side of woman with no makeup and same woman with the Clinique foundation Courtesy Zoe Malin Best lightweight: Glossier Stretch Fluid Foundation What we like: Sweat-resistant; Serum-like consistency; Diverse shade range Something to note: Slight transfer; Lighter coverage Glossier is an NBC Select-favorite brand for lightweight, everyday formulas and minimal coverage. When I first tested this foundation, I was pleasantly surprised by just how much coverage I got — it hid my dark spots, redness and smaller blemishes. It's labeled as sweat-resistant and transfer-resistant, which means it won't stain your (or other people's) clothes. It didn't slide off my face or melt off as temperatures got hotter, but I did notice some slight transfer on my husband's clothes throughout the day. UGC CAPTION: This foundation has lighter coverage, but it manages to hide spots and redness without needing to overdo how many layers you apply, according to our testers. ALT TEXT: Side by side of woman with no makeup and same woman with the Glossier foundation Courtesy Jem Alabi The finish is very natural and it dries down matte, yet it doesn't look cakey or heavy on my dry skin. This foundation is Alabi's favorite of all the 20+ options she tested. 'First off, the shade match is perfect, like it was made for me. It's so light, smooth and creamy, it didn't feel like I had anything on,' she says. 'It basically became my skin, but not in a 'I have a full face of makeup on' way, more of a, 'maybe she's born with it' kind of way. I was dewy but not oily, bright but not orange… a perfect blend.' UGC CAPTION: This foundation was a top choice for staff testers, especially those who do not wear heavy foundation on a normal basis. ALT TEXT: Side by side of woman with no makeup and same woman with the Glossier foundation Courtesy Zoe Malin This foundation has one of the lightest textures I tested, and considering it's under $15, it's one of the best values on this list. The serum-like consistency blends easily into my skin, and the medium coverage is super buildable, so I can easily cover up most of my redness and blemishes after applying two to three layers. It has SPF 20 to protect against sun exposure, and titanium dioxide, which is an expert-recommended mineral sunscreen ingredient that helps reduce inflammation. Neutrogena is also one of Dobos' favorite brands because it has a long history of researching and formulating foundations for acne-prone skin, she says. However, there are a few issues with this foundation to consider. First off, it has a very limited shade range, especially when it comes to darker skin tones. It also doesn't have a dropper or pump, so you have to pour out the foundation onto your hand from the bottle. But for the price, you might find it worth a little mess. UGC CAPTION: Though this foundation has very limited shades, it's easy to blend, super lightweight and great for everyday wear if you need a little more coverage. ALT TEXT: Before and after of woman wearing no makeup and same woman wearing Neutrogena foundation Courtesy Mili Godio What we like: Diverse shade range; Long-lasting; Has SPF 25 Something to note: Slightly chemical scent This L'Oreal foundation is one of my favorites for rosacea-prone skin because of how well it covers up redness and bumps. In fact, NBC Select reporter Zoe Malin wears this foundation on-air, where redness is a major concern. 'This foundation is impressive considering it's $17 and something you can get at the drugstore,' says Malin. 'It evens out my skin tone and mattifies my face, which is very important when I'm doing broadcast segments — the lights can easily make me look shiny, but when I wear this foundation on air, my skin looks smooth and matte.' The foundation is super buildable, so you can apply one to two more layers to get fuller coverage without cakiness. When I tested it out, I loved how lightweight the liquid consistency felt; it blended easier into my skin than others I've tried and despite its matte finish, it didn't cling to my dry patches (which is a concern I have with most matte foundations). Its blendable formula is a favorite among other editors: 'This has a somewhat shiny and fluid application, but it blends in very quickly with very little work from a brush or Beautyblender,' says NBC Select commerce editor Cory Fernandez. 'I prefer to warm it up in my hand, especially since it comes in a pump rather than an applicator.' After wearing this foundation for over 10 hours, it stayed surprisingly even and I didn't notice any transfer, streaks or flaking around my face (though there were a few flaky spots around my nose and cheeks on that 10-hour mark, which often happens due to heat and sweat). A major bonus: It has the most diverse shade ranges of any drugstore foundation we tested. UGC ALT TEXT: Side by side of woman not wearing makeup and same woman wearing the L'Oreal Paris Infallible foundation Courtesy Zoe Malin Best long-lasting: Lancôme Teint Idole Ultra 24H Long Wear Matte Foundation What we like: Full coverage; Diverse shade ranges; Sweat-resistant Something to note: Expensive This Lancome foundation is one of the longest lasting foundations I've ever tried; I wore this for 10+ hours during my little sister's graduation in 90+ degree Florida heat, and it lasted all day without budging. Even while sweating, the foundation didn't slide off or transfer. The finish is also phenomenal — despite it applying matte, it looks extremely natural (more than any other full coverage foundation I've used), which helps cover up acne and redness without looking like a mask. Plus, it hides my imperfections without me having to worry about cakiness and heaviness, which are major caveats of a typical full coverage foundation. UGC BEFORE & AFTER CAPTION: Testers say this foundation was one of the longest lasting options she tried, which is what she wants from a full coverage foundation. ALT TEXT: Side by side image of woman not wearing makeup and same woman wearing Lancome foundation. Courtesy Jem Alabi Both Alabi and Malin say this foundation lasted all day on their skin, too. 'I wore this foundation for over 12 hours, including to the office, out to dinner and while walking around Manhattan — by the time I took it off, my skin still looked pretty flawless,' says Malin. 'I'm usually not a foundation person because I don't like how heavy it feels on my sensitive skin, but I loved wearing this one. It's super lightweight, non-irritating and doesn't feel thick or cakey.' UGC CAPTION: The Lancome foundation is the only matte, full coverage foundation that covers my redness while still preventing my skin from flaking and drying out. ALT TEXT: Side by side image of woman not wearing foundation and wearing Lancome foundation. Courtesy Mili Godio What we like: Safe for sensitive skin; A little goes a long way; Lasts a long time Something to note: Thick formula This foundation is a favorite among our editors, who say its coverage and finish are some of the best they tried, especially on days when they need an extra coverage boost. 'It is extremely full coverage and matte, and a little goes a long way,' says Alabi. 'It covered up all my acne and hyperpigmentation, even without concealer.' But despite its matte, full coverage finish, the foundation still looks very natural, says Alabi. I love to wear this foundation on nights out when I want my skin to look airbrushed. It sits very well underneath concealers and color correctors, which helps me avoid any cakiness and dryness if I'm trying to cover up pimples and redness (though, like Alabi, I don't need much concealer, if at all, with this foundation). It has hyaluronic acid to add moisture and it's safe for sensitive skin, so there was no irritation among our testers even after hours of wearing it. Keep in mind the formula is very thick, so you don't want to layer on too much; but unlike most thicker foundations, this one is noncomedogenic and doesn't clog pores. UGC ALT TEXT: Side by side image of woman not wearing foundation and wearing Anastasia Beverly Hills foundation. Courtesy Jem Alabi Something to note: Powder can be messy Powder foundations are a great option for those dealing with oily, acne-prone skin since they can absorb oil and reduce shine, says board-certified dermatologist Dr. Naana Boakye. This one from Bareminerals is free of common irritants like fragrance and mineral oil, which can trigger acne and inflammation, experts say. It also has titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, which are gentle and anti-inflammatory SPF ingredients. However, keep in mind it only has an SPF 15 rating rather than the dermatologist-recommended SPF 30 or higher, so apply another sunscreen beforehand. I tested this foundation when I was having particularly bad rosacea and acne flare-ups, and though it initially applied fairly sheer, I managed to build it up to medium coverage to cover up those spots. I appreciate how versatile this foundation is; I can choose to apply a light layer for a more everyday, skin-like look, or apply a few more layers to get fuller coverage. I also tested it out on top of my foundation and skin tints, and it provided a great amount of extra coverage without looking cakey or clinging to dry spots. Plus, a little goes a very long way and it's quick to blend, so it feels lightweight on my skin (which, when you have moderate to severe acne, is a must). UGC CAPTION: The powder formula is surprisingly lightweight, and it's great if you want a more natural look. ALT TEXT: Powder foundation container and lid on table Courtesy Mili Godio What we like: Diverse shade range; Serum-like consistency; Easy to blend Something to note: Lighter coverage; Minimal shade options This foundation is a favorite among our NBC Select editors due to its lightweight serum consistency and diverse shade range. 'Its formula provides coverage without making my skin feel dry or look cakey,' says Fernandez. 'It was also incredibly easy to find a shade that matches my skin tone, even without seeing it in person beforehand.' Morris echoes the brand's impressive shades: 'The shade match is completely spot-on, and it blends so easily that I can do a full face with just a few pats of my makeup sponge,' she says. 'One of the first things I noticed about this foundation is how light it felt — usually I can feel makeup on my skin, but this feels like I'm wearing nothing at all.' And although the foundation isn't as matte as other options on this list, Morris says it also wasn't overly shiny, either. 'When my skin did start to get oily, it came off as more of a dewy glow or sheen, rather than a greasy mess,' she says. UGC BEFORE & AFTER CAPTION: This is a very lightweight foundation, so it feels much more like your actual skin, according to our editors. ALT TEXT: Before and after of woman wearing no makeup and same woman wearing LYS foundation Courtesy Ashley Morris The foundation has hyaluronic acid, a dermatologist-recommended ingredient for those with acne-prone skin, and turmeric to brighten, even and soothe skin, according to the brand. It's also very lightweight and easy to blend, though our editors note that it doesn't provide as much coverage as other foundations on this list, so it's best for those with more mild acne. A big plus is the packaging, too: The bottle has a very unique, sleek look that's great to display, says Fernandez. UGC CAPTION: Our editors with darker skin tones say this foundation was easier to color match than many others they've tried. ALT TEXT: Man with swatch of foundation on the back of hand Courtesy Cory Fernandez Best buildable coverage: Huda Beauty Easy Blur Natural Airbrush Foundation What we like: Lightweight; Acne-safe ingredients; Easy to blend Something to note: Slightly water This foundation comes recommended by Gmyrek because it has acne-safe ingredients like niacinamide, aloe vera, zinc oxide and silica to control oil and soothe skin, she says. It's a favorite among our oily, acne-prone skin staffers, who say it covers up blemishes, redness and dark spots while leaving skin with a natural, airbrushed finish. 'I'm not usually a foundation person because I don't love a lot of makeup, but this formula didn't feel heavy or uncomfortable to wear at all,' says NBC Select associate social media editor Caitlin Cusack. 'It blends in quickly with a makeup sponge and evens out my skin tone almost instantly. It wasn't quite as light as a moisturizer, but I definitely thought this foundation was lighter than others I've tried.' UGC CAPTION: This Huda Beauty foundation has ingredients like niacinamide and aloe vera that help soothe inflamed, acne-prone skin. ALT TEXT: Before and after of woman not wearing makeup and wearing Huda Beauty foundation Courtesy Caitlin Cusack The foundation dries matte but without looking cakey or unnatural, says Cusack. Plus, it's extremely buildable; though it looks relatively thin and watery when Cusack initially applied it, she could add several layers to cover up imperfections without it feeling thick or heavy on her skin, she says. UGC CAPTION: This formula has a great amount of coverage without drying out skin, according to our editors. ALT TEXT: Man applying foundation on face using a Beautyblender makeup sponge Courtesy Cory Fernandez Best splurge: Chanel Les Beiges Water-Fresh Tint What we like: Lightweight coverage; Hydrating; Easy to blend Something to note: Minimal coverage; Not many shade ranges; Not for moderate/severe acne If you're looking for a super lightweight, 'skin-like' tint for the hotter months, consider this one from Chanel. At $70 a piece, this is definitely a splurge, but it's well worth the price tag if you want a tint that's hydrating, long-lasting and looks like your actual skin. 'This is my hands-down favorite foundation for my historically acne-prone, now post-Accutane skin,' says NBC Select editorial director Lauren Swanson. 'It's very sheer and not full coverage, so if you're looking for that, this isn't it. But it's gloriously hydrating — if you're using super-drying spot treatments or have parched skin after Accutane like me, it'll keep your skin looking glowy throughout the day.' UGC CAPTION: The foundation has a watery texture at first, but blends in beautifully using the included applicator brush. ALT TEXT: Swatch of the Chanel foundation on back of woman's hand Courtesy Mili Godio I wore this one in 90-degree weather, and it didn't budge at all after 10+ hours. The formula is 75% water, according to the brand, which is great for those with very dry skin. I was initially put off by the watery texture, but it ended up turning into a lightweight tint that blended beautifully into my skin using the included applicator brush (however, due to the water-like texture, my usual makeup sponge doesn't blend it well). It didn't cling to any of my dry patches like most foundations do and instead of accentuating my pores and texture, this tint basically blurred it all away. The packaging is also one of my favorite parts; both the container and brush are sleek and luxurious. Keep in mind the shades are extremely limited, and even the darkest shade is extremely light compared to the other options on this list. Also, make note that you'll get very minimal coverage with this foundation, so you'll want to look at other options if you have moderate to severe acne. UGC Before & After CAPTION: This is more of a 'skin-like' tint rather than a foundation, so it's best for those with mild acne or occasional breakouts. ALT TEXT: Before of woman not wearing makeup and after of woman wearing Chanel foundation Courtesy Mili Godio Sephora | Ulta What we like: Good for everyday use; Hydrating; Lightweight Something to note: Not for severe acne; Dewy finish This Milk Makeup skin tint is great for those with the occasional breakout or mild acne. It has hyaluronic acid and niacinamide, which are key acne-safe ingredients that help reduce inflammation, according to the experts I spoke to. Malin doesn't typically wear a lot of makeup on a day-to-day basis, but when she's going out to dinner or knows she'll be filming social videos at work, she wears this skin tint. 'It's very hydrating; I feel like my skin drinks up the hyaluronic acid and niacinamide in it. I love the dewy glow it gives me, and it effectively evens out my skin tone and makes my face super smooth,' says Malin. 'I've gotten so many compliments on my skin when I wear this.' UGC BEFORE & AFTER CAPTION: This skin tint provides a great amount of coverage while still having expert-recommended skin care ingredients that benefit acne-prone skin. ALT TEXT: Side by side image of woman not wearing foundation and wearing Milk Makeup skin tint. Courtesy Jem Alabi The gel consistency is lighter than any other foundation on this list, and our reviewers note that they can barely feel this on your skin. Keep in mind this does have a dewy finish, which my experts say can emphasize breakouts. However, because the skin tint is lightweight and has much more subtle coverage than most foundations on this list, it's not likely that it'll cling to dry patches or create more texture. UGC BEFORE & AFTER CAPTION: The gel consistency of this skin tint is extremely light, which makes it feel like a second skin, according to our editors. ALT TEXT: Side by side image of woman not wearing foundation and wearing Milk Makeup skin tint. Courtesy Zoe Malin What we like: Great amount of coverage; Sweat and water-resistant; Natural finish Something to note: Can cling to dry patches This Make Up For Ever foundation labels itself as waterproof, and it definitely meets expectations: This is another one I used for 10+ hours in the Florida heat, and it held up great to my constant sweating (for context, my face sweats more than my body, so it's a huge surprise when any makeup product actually lasts). It has a very natural, matte finish that gives me a 'your skin but better' look, which isn't common with medium to full coverage foundations, in my experience. Cusack felt the same way: 'I'm usually not a fan of matte foundations, but this one is basically a second skin for me,' she says. 'It evens out my skin tone, covers up my redness and makes my very large pores less noticeable — all without looking cakey or unnatural.' Cusack says it takes less than a minute to blend in with her makeup sponge, which is a similar experience I had. Plus, the foundation feels so light on her skin that Cusack says she forgets she's even wearing it. However, the foundation doesn't have as much coverage as others on this list, so you might want to look elsewhere if you have more severe acne. 'The strength of this foundation is its ability to even out skin tone. It does that really well with just a small amount. But does it cover up spots? Not really,' says NBC Select SEO editor Nikki Brown. UGC CAPTION: This foundation has a very lightweight consistency, which means it won't get cakey throughout the day, according to our editors. ALT TEXT: Side by side image of woman not wearing foundation and wearing Make Up For Ever foundation. Courtesy Caitlin Cusack Can foundation cause breakouts? Yes, your foundation can be the culprit of breakouts, experts say. That's especially true if the formula is oil-based or has ingredients that generally clog pores, including coconut oil or cocoa butter (more on pore-clogging ingredients below). Heavy, thick foundations can also trap oil and trigger acne, says Gmyrek. Microbial contamination of products and applicators (like makeup sponges and brushes), as well as the frequent application and removal of makeup with harsh cleansers that disrupt the skin barrier, can all contribute to acne, says Dobos. How to shop for acne-safe foundations When shopping for the best foundation for your acne-prone skin, the ingredients list and on-package labels are key. Here's what experts agree to keep in mind: Ingredients and labels Look for foundations labeled noncomedogenic, which means they're less likely to clog pores and aggravate inflammation, and oil-free, which won't cause excess oil. Some ingredients that won't make pimples worse and may even benefit acne-prone skin include salicylic acid (a beta hydroxy acid that exfoliates and unclogs pores), niacinamide (anti-inflammatory and helps controls oil production), zinc oxide (mineral SPF ingredient that's calming and antimicrobial), and aloe vera (soothes irritation), says Gmyrek. Oils that score low on the comedogenicity scale, like argan and jojoba oils, are also safe for acne-prone skin, says Dr. Hadley King, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City. (You can look into the comedogenicity of skin care ingredients here.) Foundations that help treat acne are considered drugs in the U.S. and have specific labeling that indicates the active ingredient and percentage of that active, says Dobos. 'There are only a handful of permitted actives for acne, and salicylic acid is a popular choice because of its ability to penetrate the pores,' she says. However, avoid putting makeup with acne-fighting ingredients like salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide near your delicate eye area, which can cause irritation and premature aging, says clinical esthetician Danielle Gronich. If you have oily skin, look for ingredients that help absorb and reduce oil in your T-zone (your forehead, nose and chin). These include silica, kaolin, magnesium carbonate and starches, says Dobos. Avoid foundations with heavy, occlusive or oil-based ingredients, which can clog pores and cause breakouts. These include coconut oil, lanolin, cocoa butter, wheat germ oil, sodium lauryl sulfate and heavy silicones, says Gmyrek. Keep in mind that fragrances can also irritate sensitive, acne-prone skin, so stay away if you can. Formulation and finish Mineral or powder foundations help control excess oil, which helps those who are oily and acne-prone. Light-to-medium coverage liquids with calming ingredients like centella asiatica or aloe vera give a good amount of coverage without suffocating your skin, says Boakye. Avoid heavy cream or stick foundations, which are more likely to clog pores and accentuate acne, says Boakye. Additionally, look for foundations labeled as matte or natural finishes, both of which help control shine and reduce the appearance of texture or bumps, says Soliz. 'Avoid overly dewy formulas, which may emphasize breakouts,' he says. Also, don't reach for foundations with mica (a mineral commonly found in foundations) or shimmer because they can emphasize texture, says Suzy Gerstein, a New York City-based makeup artist. What does noncomedogenic actually mean? Noncomedogenic means a product is formulated not to block pores, which reduces the risk of acne. However, the term is not regulated and is commonly used as a marketing term, so make sure to check the ingredient list for pore blockers, says Gmyrek. 'What most people don't know is that products labeled as noncomedogenic can still contain pore-clogging ingredients because brands often reformulate but don't communicate that to their customers, or they are using the term illegitimately, not having gone through proper testing,' says Gronich. 'For acne-prone skin, I've seen even trace amounts of pore cloggers causing breakouts, which is why it's critical to check ingredient labels to make sure the products you're using do not contain any of these ingredients.' (See above for common pore-clogging ingredients.) Can you use other actives with foundation? Yes, you can combine foundation with active acne-fighting ingredients, but with caution. Apply your acne medication first, allowing it to penetrate your skin for a few minutes, and then apply your foundation. 'If you are using a foundation that already includes acne-fighting ingredients like salicylic acid in its formulation, there's no need to layer,' says Gmyrek. 'Avoid layering with strong topicals like retinoids or benzoyl peroxide unless guided by a professional — this can cause dryness or irritation,' says Boakye. How should you prep your acne-prone skin before foundation? When prepping your skin, 'it's all about balancing hydration, protecting the skin barrier and creating a clean, even canvas,' says Soliz. First, make sure your skin is exfoliated. 'People with acne should regularly exfoliate [two to three times per week] to prevent dead skin cells from clogging pores and causing new breakouts,' says Gronich. 'Makeup can also cling to dead skin cells, so exfoliating them away before applying makeup will help your makeup glow.' (Just make sure to exfoliate only a few times per week to avoid damaging your skin barrier, experts say.) Before applying your foundation, start with a gentle cleanser, then follow with a lightweight, noncomedogenic moisturizer, a mineral sunscreen (if it's daytime) and an oil-free, noncomedogenic primer. If needed, use a targeted acne treatment before applying your foundation. Wait between layers so everything is fully dry, which helps prevent cakiness and flaking, experts say. How can people with acne best apply foundation on their skin? When it comes to applying foundation, here are some makeup artist-approved tips for those with acne-prone skin: Always prioritize skin care. Make sure to use gentle, noncomedogenic skin care beforehand to prevent irritation, says King. Use clean and gentle application tools, such as a damp makeup sponge or synthetic foundation brush. Apply your foundation lightly and in thin layers to avoid caking. 'Applying too many layers of products over your [pimples] can clog pores and worsen acne,' says Gmyrek. Conceal specific areas strategically to avoid layering too many products. 'If you're touching up your makeup, removing your foundation and re-apply as opposed to putting another layer on top of your existing makeup that you have been wearing all day,' says Gmyrek. Thorough removal of makeup at night to prevent overnight breakouts and irritation. Respect the skin you're working with. 'When in doubt, less is more and skin with texture is still beautiful. Foundation should enhance your confidence, not hide who you are,' says Soliz. Meet our experts At NBC Select, we work with experts who have specialized knowledge and authority based on relevant training and/or experience. We also take steps to ensure all expert advice and recommendations are made independently and without undisclosed financial conflicts of interest. Dr. Robyn Gmyrek is a board-certified dermatologist at Unionderm in New York City. Kelly Dobos is a cosmetic chemist with expertise in skin care and personal care product formulation. Gilbert Soliz is a Los Angeles-based celebrity and fashion makeup artist. Dr. Naana Boakye is a board-certified dermatologist based in Hackensack, New Jersey. Dr. Hadley King is a board-certified dermatologist at her own private practice in New York City. Suzy Gerstein is a professional makeup artist based in New York City. Danielle Gronich is a clinical esthetician, acne specialist and CEO of Clearstem Skincare. Why trust NBC Select? I'm an updates editor at NBC Select who has covered beauty and personal care for over five years. For this article, I spoke to board-certified dermatologists, makeup artists, a cosmetic chemist and a clinical esthetician about what to look for in foundations for acne-prone skin. NBC Select editors also tested over 50 foundations for a month to find the best ones to recommend. BareMinerals Original Loose Talc-Free Powder Mineral Foundation $39.00 Amazon $39.00 Sephora $39.00 Ulta What to Consider LYS Beauty Triple Fix Serum Foundation $24.00 Sephora What to Consider Huda Beauty Easy Blur Natural Airbrush $37.00 Sephora What to Consider Milk Makeup Hydro Grip 12-Hour Hydrating Gel Skin Tint $36.00 Sephora $36.00 Ulta What to Consider Make Up For Ever HD Skin Waterproof Natural Matte Foundation $47.00 Sephora What to Consider
Scottish Sun
2 days ago
- Scottish Sun
Over half of Brits feel lonely at least once a month… but are ashamed to admit it, study shows
Gen Z feels lonelier than any generation—yet hides it behind screens and silence daily NOT ALONE Over half of Brits feel lonely at least once a month… but are ashamed to admit it, study shows Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) OVER half of Brits feel lonely at least once a month – but are ashamed to admit it. A poll of 2,000 adults revealed 56 per cent would rarely or never consider talking to someone else about how isolated they felt. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 2 The research was commissioned by audio brand, Pure Credit: SWNS Reasons for this included not wanting to burden others (37 per cent), not believing anyone else will understand (21 per cent), and not wanting to appear vulnerable (21 per cent). This may be a reflection on the strength of their support networks, as a quarter (24 per cent) described theirs as lacking – and a further 13 per cent didn't have one at all. Instead, those who feel lonely are likely to distract themselves through entertainment, such as watching TV (47 per cent), going on social media (22 per cent), or listening to the radio (19 per cent). The research was commissioned by audio brand, Pure, which is partnering with Marmalade Trust, a Bristol-based charity dedicated to raising awareness of loneliness and helping people build meaningful connections. As part of this partnership and in support of Loneliness Awareness Week, Pure will be donating 150 radios to individuals across the UK who are looking for support through a period of loneliness. Dr Lalitaa [COR], behaviouralist psychologist and expert in emotional wellbeing, commented: 'Loneliness remains a taboo subject, often shrouded in shame and stigma. 'But human connection is a basic psychological need – one that's increasingly difficult to fulfil in today's fast-paced, digital world. 'It's encouraging to see initiatives like this that provide simple, tangible comfort and help people feel part of something again.' Tara Fisher, COO from Marmalade Trust added: "Loneliness is a natural human emotion that we are all likely to experience in our lifetime. 'But there is still a stigma around loneliness, which means a significant portion of the population are reluctant to speak about these feelings to others – either because they don't feel they have anyone to talk to or are worried about doing so.' Despite these feelings of shame around loneliness, nearly eight in 10 (79 per cent) acknowledged it as a common phenomenon among the general population. Women were also found to feel lonelier than men – with only 16 per cent of women saying they never feel lonely, compared to 26 per cent of men. But perceptions about the generations most affected were not entirely accurate – with 19 per cent of all respondents believing the Silent Generation (born 1928-1945) is impacted the most by loneliness. However, Gen Zs (born 1996-2011) specifically reported feeling lonelier than any other age group, with one third feeling this way a few times a week and 11 per cent even experiencing this every single day. This compares to 19 per cent of the whole population dealing with this a few times a week and only six per cent every day. Worries about being judged (25 per cent) and dismissed (21 per cent) were also higher among Gen Zs – as were desires to socialise more (53 per cent) and make more friends (42 per cent). This compares to the 'famously lonely' Silent Generation – four in 10 of whom reported usually only going an hour maximum without speaking to someone else. A fifth of all those asked agreed on one day as the limit for not speaking to another person before feeling lonely – yet 23 per cent go this long, or longer, without talking to anyone regularly. Regionally, Londoners were most likely to report feeling lonely – with 33 per cent of those living in the capital saying they feel lonely at least a few times a week. Nearly four in 10 (39 per cent) of all respondents also claimed to feel lonelier now than they did five years ago, primarily because it's now harder to meet people. Other reasons included changes in personal relationships (23 per cent), financial stress (22 per cent), and lower self-esteem (20 per cent). The top locations people reported feeling lonely were also established as at home alone (59 per cent), in a crowd (27 per cent), and when having a meal by themselves (26 per cent). Perhaps to stave off this lonely feeling, over half (52 per cent) are more likely to listen to the radio when at home alone, according to data. Other than listening to the news and their favourite music, 38 per cent utilise their broadcast boxes for background noise (38 per cent), company (20 per cent), and making the house feel less quiet (19 per cent). A further 16 per cent specified listening to the radio helps them to feel less lonely, with 15 per cent liking to hear the sound of other people's voices, and 13 per cent enjoying being part of the conversation. Stations providing the best company were also identified as pop music (30 per cent), oldies music (24 per cent), and talk radio stations (21 per cent). Hubert Eiter, spokesperson for Pure, which is donating £5 for every Pure radio sold between June 9 – July 9, 2025 in support of Marmalade Trust, said: 'Pure has been active in supporting loneliness charities over many years and we are proud to partner with the Marmalade Trust this year. 'It's great to see that everyday listening can bring a lot of comfort to people, as it has the power to immediately make a room feel livelier and less quiet – we love the fact that radio is able to provide some company for those who feel lonely from time to time.'
Daily Mirror
2 days ago
- Daily Mirror
'Boil in the bag' cremation coming to UK - with remains flushed down drains
Water cremations, sometimes referred to as 'boil in a bag' funerals, are already widely available across the US, and could soon be rolled out in the UK 'Boil in a bag' funerals could soon be made available across the UK, offering an environmentally friendly, yet controversial, way to say your final goodbyes to a loved one. This unusual method, officially known as water cremation or alkaline hydrolysis, is currently effectively banned in the UK, but could well get the legal go-ahead following the independent Law Commission's new consultation into funerary methods. Already available across 30 US states, as well as Canada and South Africa, the first European water cremation facility, or resomation, opened its doors in early 2023in Navan, Co Meath, Ireland. Traditional burials can lead to embalming fluid seeping into the grave soil, while each gas-powered fire cremation releases around 245kg of CO2 into the atmosphere, according to UK-based cemetery and crematorium development the CDS Group. By comparison, figures from Resomation Ltd, the founding body for alkaline hydrolysis, show just 28kg of CO2 is released into the atmosphere per water cremation. Unlike conventional cremations, these eco-friendly farewells, which take between three to four hours, also don't release harmful mercury emissions into the atmosphere. So how does it work? A body is loaded into the alkaline hydrolysis machine, which calculates the amount of water and potassium hydroxide required. The machine locks, and an alkaline solution then fills the pressurised tank, which is gently heated to 152°C (305°F). The remains are broken into their chemical components — amino acids, peptides, sugars and salt — leaving behind a liquid that is then cooled in another tank until sterile and free from any remaining tissue or DNA. Around 330 gallons of brown-coloured liquid will be washed down the drain, while the softened bones are ground to powder in a reducer, and presented in an urn to the grieving family. Back in 2017, Wired journalist Hayley Campbell described the process in colourful detail after seeing a resomator in action at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). Hayley wrote: "Over the course of up to four hours, the strong alkaline base causes everything but the skeleton to break down to the original components that built it: sugar, salt, peptides and amino acids; DNA unzips into its nucleobases, cytosine, guanine, adenine, thymine. "The body becomes fertiliser and soap, a sterile watery liquid that looks like weak tea. The liquid shoots through a pipe into a holding tank in the opposite corner of the room, where it will cool down, be brought down to an acceptable pH for the water treatment plant, and be released down the drain." Noting that "it's not actually that terrible", Hayley revealed: "The human body, liquefied, smells like steamed clams." Although many scientists view alkaline hydrolysis as the future of the death industry, it's something many still feel squeamish about, while others object on religious or cultural grounds. Highlighting why this process is still a bit of a taboo in an interview with The Telegraph, Dr Lian Lundy, a wastewater specialist from Middlesex University, explained: "Some people view it as basically mixing up my loved one with poo in the sewer and they don't like that. "But there's a lot that goes into the sewer that we don't really think about – waste from mortuaries and hospitals and all sorts of things that we don't know about – so from that perspective, it's not really any different."
