Urbanology

DECEMBER 2014 $3.99

Hot & Quick Nail Designs

with everyday household items!

Henna

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0 1 2 3 4 5

6 7 8 9 0 0

And why it’s everywhere right now

Are you using the right sunscreen?

Take our quiz to find out

Skin Care

How to navigate the lies and truths of the industry

FESTIVAL FEVER

The Ultimate Guide to mastering the art of Austin City Limits

MEET THE Audrey Davis Audrey really wishes she was a teen in the ‘80s, but for now, she is a true Austin girl and loves going to ACL. Scrunchies and neutral colors are totally her thing.

Nirali Devgan

Amanda Phares

While Nirali loves Austin more than anything, she enjoys traveling and buying clothes from all around the world. You can often find her wearing things that pop.

Amanda is a huge makeup enthusiast and loves perfumes that smell nice.

She prefers darker shades and is a big fan of comfy clothes.

1 URBANOLOGY 2014

WRITERS Dessie Tien

Isha Singh

Although Dessie loves fashion and nails, she is also involved in tennis and plays the piano and guitar. She loves to dress in comfy yet fashionable clothes, but hates wearing her hair in a ponytail.

Isha loves to try out different skin care routines and beauty tips, and is an avid nail art fan. She enjoys traveling and learning about different cultures.

2014 URBANOLOGY 2

| december 2014 |

contents

intro meet the editors and writers

1

table of contents

3

editor’s note

4

features

How to Make ACL Fest the 5 Best Weekends of the Year Henna: An Exotic Look on Art

11

oil oil oil

17

The Truths and Myths of Skincare

23

Back to School Basics

30

beauty Henna to Try at Home

15

Beauty Dupes For You

22

Best Skincare Products

25

the guide

What Sunscreen is Right For You?

9

Right Hair Mask for You

19

Hair Hair Hair

29

The Best Nail DIY’s

34

life Eating Healthy at ACL Body Type

7 28

2014 URGBANOLOGY 3

From the Editors

Nirali’s favorite part of being an editor was getting to see the whole magazine come together and working with a group of new friends.

Hi Reader!

We created Urbanology because we wanted to make a magazine that’s not only helpful, but also entertaining. In this issue we have plenty of articles and quizzes that cover everything from how to take care of your skin to Austin City Limits. We chose Austin, TX to be our city for this issue because during this fall season there are a lot of fun events and fashion trends in the great city of Austin!

The goal of our magazine is to help YOU! We want you to be confident in your own skin and to have a great time doing what you like to do. For that purpose, we’ve included oodles of skincare information so you can feel comfortable and confident.

We’ve worked hard for months to produce this magazine and we hope you enjoy taking the time to sit down and read it! Remember, always stay true to yourself and never change for anyone. xoxo, Nirali and Audrey

Audrey’s favorite part of being an editor was doing it with Nirali, “When we decided to be co-editors, we had never met before, now we’re really close” said Audrey.

Nirali Devgan Audrey Davis 2014 URBANOLOGY 4

How to Make ACL Fest

the Best Weekends of the Year

Learn how to have a blast at Austin City Limits Music Festival, while keeping yourself safe and sunburn free.

By Audrey Davis

The sun, bright and shining down, crowds of people of all ages and the delicious smells of some of Austin’s finest food trailers mixing together at Zilker Park, united by one key factor, music. It’s everyone’s favorite weekend of the year. Austin City Limits.

Before you go out and enjoy the festival, know how to protect yourself from the sun, what to wear, what to bring, and how to dress trendy, but still be comfortable.

Everyone knows shoes can make or break an outfit, but did you know shoes can make or break your day? Have you ever wondered how to avoid getting sunburned without being OCD about reapplying every hour?

Planning outfits can be one of the most stressful things leading up to ACL, but it doesn’t have to be.

Before deciding what to wear, it’s a good idea to check out the latest trends to see what’s cute and comfortable. “I tend to choose looser fitting options like flowy

dresses or cut-off shorts and a slouchy tank,”says Bethany Morgio, a By George manager and fashion consultant. “It is good to bring a layering piece in case it cools down at night - a button down shirt works perfectly”. Because ACL takes place in October and Austin weather can be unpredictable in the fall, layering might be helpful.

The weather hasn’t cooled down yet, but it can get chilly when the sun sets. As Morgio recommended, a button down or a flannel can be a great thing to throw in your bag before you head out. It’s not too big, but warm enough for Austin’s evening temperature.

A great way to find a cute outfit is pick your basics, and then accessorize. Start with a cute pair of jean short, high waisted or not, a crop top or flowy tank top, and then choose your accessories. You can personalize your outfit with hairstyles, bralettes, and flash tattoos.

For hairstyles, braids can be

functional and feminine, but a cute high ponytail or top knot works great too for hot afternoons. “I am a huge fan of the bun or top knot,” says Morgio. “It keeps your hair off your face and can withstand festival heat. Braiding details are so fashionable too. Braids stay put and add a little bit of interest and femininity”. When you’re packed in a crowd surrounded by strangers, it’s nice to have your hair out of the way.

Add interest to your outfit with a simple flash tattoo. “Flash tattoos are really big this year”, says Leni Milliken, frequent ACL go-er.

A flash tattoo is a gold, silver or black temporary tattoo that lasts 4 to 6 days. Popular tattoos are armbands; necklaces, chokers in particular; and small designs like feathers along the collarbone. You can choose a couple based upon what you’re wearing that will look great the whole festival. If you’re wearing a tank top, any of these tattoos work because you’ll be

A front row crowd at Austin City Limits.

2014 URBANOLOGY 6

EAT yummy & healthy Healthiest East Side King is a restaurant as well as a food truck. They have healthy Asian Cuisine.

Least Healthy Beet Fries $7 Poor Qui (Pork Belly) Buns, 2 pcs $7 Tofu Curry Buns, 2 pcs $5 Best Snacks Tofu Curry Buns, 2 pcs $5 Liberty Rice $4 Tori Meshi $8 Veggie Meshi $7 Picadillo Pork Bun with Salsa Verde $2 Veggie Meshi (Vegetarian – can be vegan and/or glutenfree) $4 Best Lunch/Dinner Thai Chicken Karaage, Brussels Sprouts Salad, Jasmine Rice, and Pork Belly Bun $12.50 Brussels Sprouts Salad, Beet Fries, Jasmine Rice, TofuCurry Bun $12 Spicy Avocado Buns (2 pcs) $6 (Vegetarian) Chicken Tortilla Ramen $9

East Side King 7 URBANOLOGY 2014

The Mighty Cone!

@ AUSTIN city limits Least Healthy Mighty Cone is a local Austin food truck that sells a variety of food wrapped in a tortilla cone.

Least Healthy Death by Chocolate Brownie.......$3.25 Floats........$2.25 made with natural Blue Bell ice cream Best Snacks Chili-Dusted Fries.......$1.75 served with homemade fireroasted red pepper ketchup Hot & Crunchy Pickles.......$2.50 pickle spears with jalapeĂąo ranch Best Lunch/Dinner Hot & Crunchy Chicken Cone.......$5.75 Hot & Crunchy Avocado cone........$5.75 Deluxe Combo ConeChicken & Avocado.......$6.75 Shrimp & Avocado Cone.......$7.25 1/4 Pounder Burger.......$5.95

Hat Creek Burger Co. is an Austin based restaurant that sells burgers and fries.

Least Healthy Chocolate and Vanilla Milkshake........$3.49-$4.49 add toppings for 50 cents. toppings- Bananas, Nilla Wafers, Honey, Graham Crackers, Marshmallows, Strawberry Sauce, Mint Syrup, Oreos, Gummy Worms, M&Ms, Butterfinger, Sprinkles Best Snacks Fresh-cut Fries.......$1.99 4 piece Flashers........$3.49 Fried Hat Creek Pickle Co. Pickle.......$4.99 Best Lunch/Dinner Little Hat Burger.......$3.29 Big Hat Burger.........$4.99 Served with lettuce, tomatoes, onions, pickles & mustard.

Add American, Pepperjack, Cheddar or Swiss for 69¢ 6 piece Flashers.......$4.59

Hat Creek Burger Co.

2014 URBANOLOGY 8

able to see them all. If you have a thicker strap, you may want to go with an armband or necklace so they’re more visible.

Another trendy accessory are bralettes, a terrific option for adding a pop of color or showing a different material to add contrast.

“Bralettes are great for a layering piece underneath those more revealing tops,” says Morgio. “If

you have a tank that is cut low under the arms, it is great to show a little pop of color or pattern that works with the design on the tank!”

Bralettes are also great because if you get too hot and your bralette is supportive enough, you can just wear it alone.

The last, but definitely not least accessory is shoes. Shoes are essential to your comfort while

at ACL. You want your shoes to be comfortable and definitely cute, but you have to consider you’ll be wearing them all day.

Whether you’re running around or sitting down, if your shoes are uncomfortable you’ll feel it.

Sandals might not be the best choice if you want to be in the front of a crowd or a densely packed area. Feet can get stepped

What Sunscreen is for you?

Does your skin burn easily?

no

How long are you going to be outside?

Yes

Is your skin acne prone?

Yes

Clear Face Liquid-Lotion Sunblock SPF 30 $10.99 ulta

9 URBANOLOGY 2014

no

15 minutes? not very long

Ultracalming Moisturizer SPF 15 $13.99 Ulta

a couple hours Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen, SPF 70 $10.29 drugstore.com

Anna Bushong hangs out at a concert on someone’s shoulder.

on easily and it’s never fun to start the day with a bruised foot, or worse, a missing toenail. Morgio suggests a flat boot or sneaker so your feet can carry you through the day, “you do not want to be wearing a narrow heel on a grassy lawn unless you plan on aerating the lawn”. Try converse or another cute sneaker.

A frequently asked question is what to bring and what to carry it in. Try carrying everything in a Camelbak or a cute but small backpack or fanny pack. Camelbaks are super handy because they conveniently carry lots of water while having plenty of room for other things too. Staying hydrated throughout ACL is very, very important. If you don’t, you could get a killer headache and pass out from dehydration. If you can’t bring a Camelbak, bring a water bottle you can refill in between concerts. And don’t forget money for food and souvenirs (maybe 40 dollars a day), a phone for contacting your ride, an extra layer, and sunscreen and chapstick to reapply throughout the day.

While you won’t have good enough cell service to catch up on social media or text friends, it’s

The Jenner’s and Selena Gomez hang out at Coachella, a music festival similar to Austin City Limits.

important to have a charged sunburns continue to happen. “I phone to take pictures and contact recommend using an aloe vera your ride when leaving. We gel and topical hydrocortisone suggest turning your phone on cream to help heal the skin and airplane mode or bring a back-up soothe the inflammation,” says Dr. charger to save precious battery. Coover. “Applying an ice pack to

Whether you think you sunburned areas feels good and need to or not, wear and reapply prevents the burn from advancing sunscreen throughout the day further. It also helps to take to your face and neck. Being in ibuprofen for a sunburn for its the sun all day can lead to some anti-inflammatory properties”. nasty sunburns and skin damage, While all of this “The most effective way to do so information is useful, the most is with an SPF 15 or higher facial important thing to remember is moisturizer applied at least 20 to have a blast. Austin City Limits minutes prior to sun exposure,” only happens twice a year, so have says Shirien Coover, PA-C. “It is fun and take advantage of the important to reapply every 2 hours opportunity to wear something if you are outdoors, especially daring that makes you feel when swimming or sweating.” If confident and empowered. But you can, wear a sunscreen that don’t forget to stay hydrated and has SPF 50+ because it allows wear plenty of SPF. You don’t want for a 98 percent protection from to become what Rollingwood ultraviolet rays and the sun.“ You neighbors calls an “ACL Zombie” may carry facial cleansing wipes - someone who roams the streets in your bag or purse to clean the after midnight with one shoe, a sweat and dirt off your face at dead cell phone, a sunburnt face, such events,” says Dr. Coover. and their car on the other side of Remember to reapply sunscreen the park. after you wipe down your face.

Photo Credits

Unfortunately, no matter Cover photo from Free People blog Photos 1, 2, and 3 from Pinterest how hard you try, sometimes 2014 URBANOLOGY 10

Henna: An Exotic New Look on Art

By Isha Singh

More and more people are turning to henna as a natural alternative to a permanent tattoo. Its cultural background, foreign quality, and elegant appearance make it a rising trend in modern day fashion.

I

n a large and spacious room, colorful fabrics adorn the walls while countless string lights add an even more festive feel to the atmosphere. Women, clad in deep blues, lilac purples, and robust yellows dance to the exotic music booming from hidden speakers. Men mill around, chatting and laughing with close friends and family members. A variety of delicious snacks sit invitingly on a table, off to the side. The bride relaxes in a luxurious room, full of vibrant silk cushions and very comfortable. Her mother and bridesmaids lounge around with her, conversing among themselves, while professional henna artists decorate her arms and feet. Slowly, swirling patterns and designs start to 11 URBANOLOGY 2014

cover her skin.

Although henna has taken a very modern turn recently, it’s been around for more than 9,000 years. Most don’t actually know what it is, what it does or why it’s even used.

The earliest signs of henna date all the way back to the pre dynastic period of Egypt. It is said to have been the very first cosmetic, and people would apply it to their hair, nails, and skin to get a reddish stain. Traditionally, henna was used for special occasions like birthdays, weddings and holidays in Africa, the Middle East, and India. But the most popular event is when the bride and her friends, family, and relatives get together and have a party

to celebrate the upcoming wedding. The bride’s arms and feet are covered in intricate and beautiful mehndi designs artfully drawn by professional henna artists. There are various traditions associated with the henna stain as well. It is said that if the color gets really dark, the bride’s mother-in-law will love her dearly. Henna is also applied for good blessings, joy, and beauty.

Essentially, henna is a paste made out of dried and crushed leaves from the plant Lawsonia inermis. It is usually mixed with lemon juice, tea/ coffee, sugar, and eucalyptus oil, but there are numerous techniques to making the best paste. It is then put into a rolled cone for easy application.

When applied to the skin, it

Henna artists usually have a different take on those getting it done. “It was a stress-reliever at first, but at this point, it’s my job,” says henna artist Nisha Agrawal. Many people do henna as a hobby, but some like to share their love and skill for henna with others, so they decide to start businesses.

This lets them meet all kinds of new people. Doing henna has a huge social side to it as well, and many times it ends up impacting people in ways they never imagined. “I love to see the amazement [my customers] have after I do their henna.

Their expressions are the best part”, says Nisha.

The popularity of henna has spread to western countries, and has been incorporated into

Leaves from a Lawsonia inermis plant are very potent in natural color.

Photo: Wikipedia.org

leaves behind a stain that can range from orange to black in color and usually stays for one to two weeks . Henna is often referred to as mehndi. Although they both mean virtually the same thing, mehndi is the actual art of applying henna to the skin and focuses more on the designs themselves.

This is only a simplistic look at what henna means to people. Individuals and families often have their own thoughts and traditions for henna, each one slightly different. “One thing that surprised me the most about doing henna, is how meaningful it is to people,” says Henna Kim, a local Austin henna artist. “It makes people feel special and beautiful… It [truly] is very powerful.”

modern fashion. “The first time I ever saw it was on Gwen Stefani, in a magazine...I’d never seen it on someone modern, and to see it in my society, it was just beautiful”, says Kim. Many young girls enjoy getting henna tattooed on themselves before they go out to a concert or an evening out. Since bohemian looks have gotten very prominent in

Photo: Wikipedia.org

An Indian bride opens her hands to show off her henna. Adorned with gold jewelry and a wearing a beautiful sari, she prepares for her wedding.

2014 URBANOLOGY 12

There are many henna designs that come from different cultures. Middle Eastern henna varies slightly from Indian henna because of different religious aspects and cultural norms. Here is a little more modern henna.

made at home as well. Pre-cut henna cone paper can be found online, or any semi stiff plastic can be used. Fill the cone with the homemade henna paste, seal it off, and it’s ready! There are countless designs that can be found online as well and are great ways to practice.

Once the henna is applied, there are many steps to take to make sure the stain comes out as dark as possible.

When the henna starts to dry, mix some sugar and lemon juice, and cover the henna with it. This keeps it from flaking off, and deepens the color. It is best to keep the henna on overnight, so cover it with a plastic bag or cotton bandage, and go to sleep! In the morning, the henna can be taken off, but without water.

Instead, use olive or baby oil to wipe the dried paste off.

At this point, the tattoo can touch water, but to increase it’s life, it is best not to apply too much soap or scrub it too much either. The stain should last

about four to ten days.

Even though henna is just a very small way two cultures can bond, it has made an impact on our society. It allows people of very different backgrounds to come together and interact with each other and forms a vast diversity in of cultures. Henna can also be a learning experience. It is something relaxing where people can sit around, talk, and enjoy themselves. This just shows how the littlest things can make a big difference in someone’s life. As stated earlier, henna has many social aspects that come with it. “It’s a different form of art”, says Kim. “It’s amazing...it really is amazing”.

Photo: David Dennis

Photo: Bjorn Christian Torrissen

American fashion, henna fits right in. Henna even draws people into the history of India, Africa, and the Middle East; they are interested in learning all about where it came from.

“I love how henna is becoming more popular here. It’s very good for me. It encourages me and gives me confidence in my henna art.” Nisha says.

Henna is actually very easy to find. Local Indian stores usually always have pre-made henna cones in stock, or they can easily be found online.

But henna paste can be made at home as well. “To make fresh henna paste, buy henna powder from any local Indian grocery store. Then all you need is: lemon juice, sugar, and eucalyptus oil. You can even add coffee or tea for extra color”, says henna artist Rupali Jajoo. Various simple recipes and videos can be found online.

Making henna paste at home guarantees that there were no additional chemicals added to it. Even the cones can be

Moroccan henna designs often include intertwining patterns of leaves, flowers, and other types of Islamic art.

2014 URBANOLOGY 14

Henna Tips and Tricks Tip: for Beginners Experiment with various ways to hold your henna cone to find what works best.

Beginner Photos: Isha Singh

By Isha Singh

Indian:

Indian mehndi designs are usually very intricate and leave hardly any skin showing. They consist of small shapes, and any large shapes are filled with tiny details. Indian mehndi often includes peacocks and human figures.

Tip:

Draw a pattern on your hand with a pen, and trace it with the paste. This is a great method for starters.

15 URBANOLOGY 2014

Advanced

Tip: No matter how complicated a henna design might look, just remember that every pattern is only a collection of simple shapes that are arranged in certain ways to create a masterpiece.

Tip: Start off by practicing small shapes like flowers, leaves, and paisley prints. Then, when you feel a little more confident, try putting them together to create a full pattern.

Arabic: Arabic henna designs are spaced further apart and leave more skin showing than Indian henna. They consist more of floral designs and large shapes.

Tip:

Make sure you are comfortable before you start appyling your henna.

2014 URBANOLOGY 16

oil oil and more oil

By Nirali Devgan

Learn the full benefits of oils and how you use them in ways you have never known before.

W

e all strive to use what we can naturally and organically, going to extremes and spending fifty dollars on eye cream that includes a natural oil that nobody has ever heard. Pure oils can give abundant benefits when using them all over your body, hair, cooking, and especially, emotionally. Do you really know how to get the most of oils for you?

Oils can act as moisturizers, stress-relievers, immediate energy, and skin strengtheners. With confusing names and expensive price tags, people often shy away from buying a bottle of coconut oil to oil pull or lavender oil for that evening when the stress is just too much. Oils taken externally, internally, or aromatically can replace those bottles of

moisturizers, appointments to the acupuncturist, and the stinging pain after a long workout.

Oil’s most attractive benefits are their health benefits.

Full of lipids, it gives immediate energy, flushes cells, and doesn’t store fat, which is a great plus.

Oils have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties which soothe and strengthen your skin.

They supply omega 3,6, and alpha-linoleic acid which keeps internal organs healthy and moisturized. Oils like peppermint can act as a natural Advil, fight congestion and soothe nausea and other stomach pains. Sesame oil can help lower your blood pressure as well as most doctors and hospitals have a large stock, because it can also help slow the growth of cancer cells.Geranium oil is another oil surgeons love.

As it calms inflammations and

can help stop hemorrhaging.

After reading the health, skin, and hair benefits oils give you, people rack their brains trying to figure out how to integrate them into the daily routine. The point isn’t to have ten bottles lined up to use every day, it’s to maximize while in moderation. “I will take out my coconut oil about three or four days a week after showering and rub it all over my body.” says Bodhi Yoga instructor, Patti Gagne. A daily routine using oils would start with waking up, you hop in the shower, and you get out your coconut oil as your shaving cream and slather it all over your legs. While drying your body you squirt some argan oil into the palm of your hand and rub into your already wet hair.

After drying, you pour some almond oil, a light but effective

Tea tree oil is best for the mouth and gums, and helps get rid of bacteria.

URBANOLOGY 2014 18

THE

U O Y R O F K S A M ) r i a h ( T RIGH Nirali Devgan

Shiny and oily avacado hair and olive oil 1 avocado, pitted and scooped out 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons honey 2-3 drops lavender essential oil

grow out that hair aloe vera and lavender mask 1 teaspoon rosemaryoil 1 teaspoon basil oil 1 teaspoon lavender oil 3-5 pumps of aloe vera gel 3-5 drops burdock oil

REpair store for the highlighters and color users

egg and honey 2014 URBANOLOGY 19

1 Egg 1 Avocado 3 Tablespoon Olive oil 1 Tablespoon Honey

dry and fine HAIR banana and almond oil mask 1 ripe banana 3-4 drops of almond oil 1/2 cup whole milk 1 tablespoon honey

relax those curls

apple cider vinegar and molasses

1/4 cup of honey 1/4 cup of blackstrap molasses 1/4 cup of olive oil a splash of apple cider vinegar 1 container of banana baby food

GET YOUR lemon and milk THICK hair mask ON 1 egg

1 cup of milk half a lemon 2 tablesppons of olive oil

U

In Morroco, about 150 bottles of argan oil are made daily at each oil co-op.

moisturizer, and rub it all over your face as a base for makeup or the end for your face routine.

While still fresh out of the shower you pull out your little tube of mustard oil, take a little dollop and rub it into your belly button. This helps with skin and lip discoloration and acts almost overnight. Now you can brush your teeth with the neem and clove oil toothpaste, great for fresh breath and whitening teeth.

As you get your clothes on there is a open bottle of lavender oil in your closet that you breathe in while picking out your clothes, working to calm and relieve stress. Before you run out the door, you grab a reusable water bottle and fill it with water, add some lemon essential oil to rid your body of toxins. After a long day of school or work, whether you have time for a detox bath with you favorite oils or just a

cup of tea with essential lemon and ginger oil, take oils in before you hit the pillow

Aromatherapy, has its believers and nonbelievers.

Whether you believe in it or not, the benefits are countless. “I have muscled tested clients to find different oils their bodies need and/or want for many different reasons such as immunity, thinking, concentration, relaxation, calming, balancing etc.” says Marty Stary, a aromatherapy business owner. “I use lavender oil for relaxation, eucalyptus oil in my shower to help with breathing should I feel stopped up, citrus or peppermint oils with a long day ahead to perk me up, and rose oil to balance hormones and menopause.” Peppermint oil can be both stimulating and soothing, arousing your mental sharpness, but soothing that headache that

you just got. If you get a stuck on your math homework or just can’t finish something for oyur boss, drop some lemon oil on your chest and throat to get your brain and body flowing and you will be done in no time. Esty Skin Studio employee Ella Barovich always starts her facials with an inhalation of lavender and eucalyptus oil and ends with invigorating clove and citrus oil.

Another debated topic is oil pulling. Some people swear by it and some people say they don’t want to walk around for twenty minutes with a bunch of oil in their mouth. Time consuming or not, the ancient Ayurvedic practice helps rid toxins and soothes and moisturizes the body while also cleaning out your mouth.

Oral benefits include strengthening your gums and whitening your teeth naturally.

URBANOLOGY 2014 20

Also, if you have a cold or bad sinus and you can’t take a day off work, oil pulling can help clear it and get you through those long meetings. Ranging from five to thirty minutes, take a spoon of coconut or olive oil into your mouth and gargle and swish daily to maximize its full benefits.

The type of oil you use makes all the difference. There has been tons of research on the benefits of coconut oil and one is the dramatic effect in Alzheimer’s patients. “Four tablespoons per day added to their diet has a very positive impact that many are experiencing,” says Marty Stary.

Scientists at the University of Illinois have been experimenting with olive oil reversing heart disease and preventing heart attacks. Fish oil, along with helping the heart, strengthens the brain. Professors at Emory University Medical School have done studies and shown evidence that taking fish supplements would give you better brain function for about three to five extra years.

As a constant subject for experiment with cosmetologists and scientists, oils get extra benefits added to them and work for various more things.

Oils have immediate health, skin, and body benefits which either people don’t maximize or don’t realize.

The next time you are at the grocery store, pick up a small bottle of lavender oil for those pimples and evening headaches, or coconut oil as an alternative shaving cream and see the difference it can make for you.

[ all photos from free people blog and Anirudh Devgan]

Lavender oil is one of the most soothing and stress-relieving oils out there along with acne help.

2014 URBANOLOGY 21

DRUG STORE DUPES \\the best\\ Nirali Devgan

$15

mac russian red

BLUSH

LIPS

$30

$8 revlon really red

$3

NARS ANGELIKA

elf fuschia fusion

CONCEALER

$7

FOUNDATION

$20

maybelline age rewind

clinique even better

revlon color stay

stila long wear eyeliner

$36 MASCARA

EYELINER

$20

$12

ESTEE LAUDER DOUBLE WEAR

$7 nyx eye liner

lancome hypnose mascara

$28

$9

loreal butterfly mascara

2014 URBANOLOGY 22

The Truths and Myths of Skin care

Is it a hassle finding the skin care products that are right for you? These tips and tricks are an easy fix to any and all skin care woes.

O

ne of the most looked-at parts of the body is the face, so preventing those pesky pimples and annoying dark circles from popping up is a must for many teenage girls. Many girls love makeup and hoarding loads of different skin care products, but they might not know the truths and myths of skin care, or how to use makeup to their advantage.

Companies and magazines advertise different products and beauty secrets all the time, but the bulk of those beauty secrets will probably end up being more lies than you think.

How many times have one of those snazzy DIY cleansers or face masks been a flop for girls who have tried it? The truth

23 URBANOLOGY 2014

is, teenage girls probably do not take care for their skin the right way or, even worse, aren’t applying makeup in a way that plays up their features.

Not everything is a myth though, the truths are easy to distinguish from the lies with a little bit of help.

Renee Snyder, a dermatologist at Snyder Dermatology, tells us that the most frequently asked question she gets is a skin care misconception.

She says, “I get asked if layering different SPF ratings on top of each other will equal to be a higher SPF. So, that would be like using a foundation of SPF 20, a moisturizer with an SPF of 10, and maybe a sunscreen with an SPF of 10. Layering all of those on top of each other will not equal an SPF of 40.”

Snyder says this is a misconception because any SPF won’t be anymore effective over 30. This being said, wearing sunscreen is still a major must. “The most important thing to do [in your skin care routine] would be to wear sunscreen even if you’re inside, because UVA light is known to age skin faster than normal and UVB light can cause cancer,” says Snyder.

Yvette Reese, an aesthetician at Bradz Salon, says another skin care mistake that’s easy to make is popping a pimple. “It will definitely leave a scar if you aren’t taking care of [the pimple] properly like washing your face regularly and treating it with something like salicylic acid.” Lots of people have acne and those annoying

Photo from “Shaaanxo” blog

By Amanda Phares

By Amanda Phares

Top 5 Moisturizers for All Skin Types

1

3

2 5

4 1 2

The Body Shop Vitamin C Daily Moisturizer SPF 20 $20.00 at Ulta Beauty for Dull Skin St. Ives Timeless Skin Collagen Elastin Moisturizer $5.29 at CVS for Dry Skin

25 URBANOLOGY 2014

3 4

5

Neutrogena Healthy Skin Face Lotion SPF 15 $15.99 at Walgreens for Fine Lines Cetaphil Moisturizing Cream $11.59 at CVS for Dry and Sensitive Skin

Simple Skin Care Ultra-light Gel Moisturizer $9.99 at Target for Oily Skin

“When you over exfoliate, you take essential oils out of your skin, and using a face mask will put those oils back in.” you to see an improvement in your skin, but high fat and carbohydrates are very known to cause acne,” says Snyder. A poor diet really does have a negative effect on the skin. Snyder suggests staying away from fatty, junk and greasy fast food.

An unhealthy diet isn’t the only thing that can cause breakouts. Reese says sleeping in makeup every night can irritate the

skin as well. When you don’t remove your makeup at night, a whole other layer of skin will grow over your makeup, essentially trapping [the makeup] underneath a layer of thin skin. Reese says practicing this bad habit can lead to excess breakouts.

These accidental skin care habits have easy fixes for skin that has been stripped, dried or irritated. “Face masks can help your skin if you have been over exfoliating recently because when you over exfoliate, you take essential oils out of your skin.” Says Reese, “Using a face mask will put those oils back in.”

Masks are easily available

pretty much anywhere from Walmart to Sephora, as they can vary from cheap to expensive. These masks contain multiple skin-loving ingredients that help reduce stress for the average teenager.

“Exfoliants are also very helpful because they will remove the oldest dead skin cells on your face,” says Reese, “and they are very beneficial if you are looking to maintain healthy skin.” According to Snyder, a cleanser helps as well.

“A cleanser can be used to cleanse the surface of the skin, and an exfoliator will completely take the top layer of skin off.” Says Snyder when asked the benefits of an exfoliator versus a cleanser. She says they can be used daily

Photo by “Synergie Skin”: Terri Vinson

stray zits that always pop up at the worst possible times, but popping them won’t help in the long run. “The best thing to do would be to leave [the pimple] alone, because at some point it will gradually fade away,” says Reese.

Not everything companies proclaim as true end up being a lie.

A few myths are actually true. “Having a healthy diet will definitely allow

A group of friends have a fun night with skin care products.

2014 URBANOLOGY 26

27 URBANOLOGY 2014

“A cleanser can be used to cleanse the surface of the skin, and an exfoliator will completely take the top layer of skin off.”

Sensitive skin proves hard to shop for, so always read the ingredients on the back of any product and look for

A teenage girl nourishing her skin.

the word “hypoallergenic”.

“You are putting less chemicals on your face, which is definitely better for your skin. And natural elements like rock minerals are very beneficial and better than chemicals.”

Says Reese. Chemicals and synthetic materials will irritate the skin, so look for hypoallergenic products that cater to sensitive skin. Be conscious of the ingredients that go into facial products and take care of skin the way it deserves.

Now that you know the difference between the skin care myths and the truths, you should know what to keep an eye out for. Keep in mind these tips and tricks, and be smart about what goes on your face. Maybe the clear skin you have been waiting for is only a few steps away.

Cosmetics design.com

because they are less harsh than exfoliants. Not too worry though, having dry or oily skin won’t affect whether or not to use a cleanser. “You should use a gel cleanser if you have an oily skin type and a cream cleanser if you have drier skin,” says Reese.

“What is most important to remember is that skin type doesn’t determine what products can be used, only what type of each product.”

The same thing goes for moisturizer. Reese says,“Choose moisturizers with ingredients in them that help target oil if you have oily skin because these moisturizers can actually help reduce oil production.” Moisturizing should be considered as part of any daily skin care routine. “A moisturizer should be used after a cleanser or face wash.”

Snyder says. “Depending

Photo from “One Good Thing” by Jillee

Photo by “Skin Care Hub”

A woman holds natural skin care ingredients.

on skin type, the face should be washed two times a day, which means moisturizing twice a day.”

If unsure of your skin type, consult a dermatologist.

Snyder says teenagers most commonly have very sensitive skin as they grow up, so they should look for natural ingredients instead of synthetic ones in products.

The result of a good skin care routine.

WHAT’S YOUR BODY SHAPE?

By Amanda Phares

The Circle

The Inverted Triangle

The Lean Column

Characteristics: Characteristics: • Broader shoulders than hips • Narrow shoulders • Little definition between waist • Small and undefined waist • Narrow hips and hips • Small bust • Straight shoulder line Do’s and Dont’s: • DO try sweetheart necklines to Do’s and Don’ts: create curves • DO try a wider pant leg • DON’T wear overwhelming • DO try fuller skirts clothing • DON’T wear spaghetti straps • DO accessorize with belts • DO try high-waisted styles

Characteristics: • Rounded shoulders • Medium to large bust • Fullness around midsection • Defined leg shape Do’s and Don’ts: • DO try v-necks • DO try belts at the waist • DON’T wear full skirts • DO wear shorter skirts

The Pear

The Hourglass

The Square

Characteristics: • Fullness in hips and thighs • Defined waist • Hips wider than the shoulders • Smaller bust Do’s and Don’ts: • DO try a-line skirts • DO look for boat neck and square necklines • DON’T wear clothing that draws attention to hips & thighs • DO try loose dresses

Characteristics: • Shoulders and hips similar width • Smaller waist • Full bust • Rounded bottom Do’s and Don’ts: • DO wear fitted dresses • DO try skinny jeans • DON’T hide curves with looser and baggy fit clothing • DO try high-waisted skirts

Characteristics: • Straight shoulders • Straighter hips • Slightly defined waist • Medium bust Do’s and Don’ts: • DO wear unstructured jackets • DON’T wear boxy jackets and coats • DO keep body uncluttered • DON’T wear baggy clothing • DO try a belt at the waist 2014 URBANOLOGY 28

That will make your life 10 times easier

By Dessie Tien

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29 URBANOLOGY 2014

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There are many different outfit choices when going back to school, such as this one.

Back to School Basics

Photo from FreePeople Blog

Don’t know what to wear? What eyeliner technique to use? This back-to-school guide will make anyone’s life easier with these pieces of advice and tips.

By Dessie Tien

E

veryone dreads that time of the year when the sun starts setting earlier and commercials for back-to-school dominate the breaks between TV shows.

This point in our lives happens annually and causes stress for millions of teenage girls who don’t know what to wear or what color to paint their toe nails for the first day of school.

Between going supply shopping and trying to keep up with the new fall trends, going back to school gets pretty hectic. However, by knowing what’s in style and which routines work best for getting in the swing of things, going back to school has never been easier.

For most kids, school is like a nine month prison sentence. A senior at the Liberal Arts and Science Academy (LASA) in Austin, Texas, Frankie Marchan says, “During the school year you spend all your time 31 URBANOLOGY 2014

in this building...it’s where you live for basically like 10 months.” Ten months is a long time, so no wonder stress levels increase when getting ready for your home away from home! Girls don’t know what to wear on the first day, what makeup to use, or what they should do to prep. This creates more anxiety than it should, but knowing the new trends and routines can reduce schoolrelated stress.

Keeping up with new fashion trends is easier than ever with all the new technology available to teens via their laptop, cellphone, or iPad. Many blogs online give makeup and overall beauty and fashion tips, such as Into the Gloss, Shaaanxo and Refinery29. These blogs give tutorials and helpful reviews on beauty products, as well as updates on new looks that could possibly become your first day of school outfit. Students can

also stay in touch with the constantly evolving fashion world through Pinterest and magazines. Fashion magazines fill stands at grocery stores, making them readily accessible, and anyone with internet can Google new trends.

Finding new fashion trends that suit your style can be a hassle and you may not want to include them in your outfit. For a last-minute look, stick with jeans. Every year, thousands of students wear jeans on the first day of school. No matter what, no one can go wrong with them.

American Eagle Outfitters’ store manager Yoomi Park believes strongly in the power of jeans as a backto-school essential. “When [students] think back to school [outfits], they think jeans,” says Park. “Parents love ‘em, kids love ‘em.”

With jeans, anyone can dress them up or dress them down.

By pairing them with a nice

Photo from FreePeople Blog

90’s fashion is making its way back into everyday clothing.

shirt, students get a more classy, while casual look, which is desired.

If you consider jeans too mainstream, this year “the ‘90s are coming back,” says Park. Grunge has replaced boho. To achieve a perfect ‘90s clothing look for backto-school, try pairing a large oversized shirt with a Photo from Whistling Dixie Blog

Burgundy lips & dark eye makeup.

flannel and leggings. Joggers are becoming a new trend as well as large cable knit sweaters, which can make another complete outfit.

However, a ‘90s outfit is incomplete without

“Don’t be afraid to try new things, it washes off” ‘90s makeup, which is another upcoming beauty trend. Smashbox makeup artist Amy Johnson says, “Burgundy lips are gonna be humongous.” Other ‘90s makeup styles currently taking over the cosmetic industry include dark eyes paired with dark lips as well as “Matte skin, contouring but in a natural way. Not so Kardashian, just softer.

Graphic liner, also a big [trend],” Johnson explains.

If loud makeup doesn’t

match someone’s style, experimentation to find their signature makeup is difficult. Johnson has key advice for students who don’t know what to do with their makeup. “Don’t be afraid to try new things, it washes off,” she tells inexperienced makeup customers.

Exploring new trends and styles with makeup is essential in understanding an individual’s personal makeup and fashion style.

When going back to school, should fashion be more important than makeup?

Girls spend more time picking out clothes, but the difference between winged eyeliner and smudged eyeliner can change someone’s whole look.

Deciding whether to spend time on clothes or makeup causes frustration, but in the end it all comes down to the person’s style. “If [a person’s] style’s really dressed up, they care more about their makeup and they’ll do more,” Park says on the matter. “If they’re more of a casual style, they’re not gonna worry as much about makeup, they just have a minimal style, basic makeup.” For Amy Johnson though, makeup would remain her strong suit throughout her school life. “At my school [the more important aspect] was

2014 URBANOLOGY 32

clothes, but for me it was always makeup,” she says.

But no matter what, stressing out about fashion and beauty for the first day of school has many solutions, including starting beneficial routines.

Even if someone’s makeup looks flawless, Johnson knows that skin care makes or breaks a back-to-school outfit. Because of this, she says everyone needs to “get [their] skin care regimen down, ‘cause [their] makeup is only gonna look as good as your skin is.” In any case, everyone should always consider skin care more important than the makeup and fashion aspect for back to school. Because of this, adapting a routine to fit specific needs helps with having clear skin on the first day of school. The

easiest thing to do for clear skin seems simple, but many people ignore this tip. Starting a consistent skin care routine early in the summer guarantees glowing skin on the first day of school. Getting back into the groove of a school routine can prove difficult, but starting routines early becomes extremely helpful in giving students the ability to pay more attention to clothing and makeup choices instead of skin care routines.

Along with routines for back to school, sleep should rank the top of the back-toschool to-do list. Lack of sleep contributes to stress, but Frankie Marchan has the solution to adjusting a person’s school sleeping schedule. “A couple weeks before I’ll start getting up

earlier and earlier and then like the day before school starts I just like sleep in ‘till 10 so that way I have energy and wake up early the next day,” she says. No matter when school starts, students need to try and maintain a normal sleeping schedule that doesn’t change drastically every day.

Returning to school seems like a burden, but it can also be fun. Back to school helps students discover ways to maintain healthy routines and beauty tips and tricks for the rest of their life. Discovering personal style and new trends are exciting and a great way to keep up with the fashion world. All that’s needed for back to school is a complete outfit, matching makeup and a great attitude!

Sleeping is the most important part of getting ready for school.

Photo from FreePeople Blog

33 URBANOLOGY 2014

By Dessie Tien

1

MANICURES WITH HOUSEHOLD OBJECTS MAKEUP BRUSH

START WITH A SOLID COLOR BASE COAT AND ADD DIFFERENT COLOR STRIPES FROM THE BASE TO THE MIDDLE OF YOUR NAIL

2

TOOTHBRUSH

START WITH A SOLID COLOR BASE COAT AND DIP THE TOOTHBRUSH INTO DIFFERENT COLORS, DOTTING THE POLISH ON

3

MAKEUP SPONGE

START WITH A SOLID COLOR BASE COAT AND BLOT NAIL POLISH ON USING SPONGE

4

ACETONE & Q-TIPS

STARTING WITH A WHITE BASE, PUT ACETONE-DIPPED Q-TIPS INTO A PUDDLE OF NAIL POLISH AND BLOT UNTIL THIN. DAB POLISH ON

7

SARAN WRAP

START WITH A SOLID COLOR BASE COAT AND BALL UP SQUARES OF SARAN WRAP. DIP IN DIFFERENT COLOR POLISH AND BLOT ON

8

TAPE

WITH A SOLID COLOR BASE, ADD STRIPES OF TAPE. ADD A DIFFERENT COLOR OVER TAPE AND PEEL OFF TAPE

9

TOOTHPICKS

ACETONE & Q-TIPS

WITH A BLACK BASE, ADD STRIPES OF GREEN POLISH AND GENTLY BLOT WITH AN ACETONE-DIPPED Q-TIP

5

6

PUT NAIL POLISH ON A PIECE OF PLASTIC. STIR WITH TOOTHPICKS TO MAINTAIN CONSISTENCY AND DRAPE POLISH OVER A DRY BASE COAT

10

WATER & TAPE

TOOTHPICKS

LET A LIGHT COLORED BASE DRY BEFORE WITH A DRY BASE COAT, COMBINE TWO DOTS TAPING AROUND YOUR NAIL. DROP POLISH OF POLISH AT THEIR BASE INTO WATER AND DIP YOUR NAIL IN

2014 URBANOLOGY 34