Sydney Sasser
Sydney Sasser is a business reporter with the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette. Before joining the ADG, she covered business for the Charlotte Observer. She is a recent graduate of the Hussman School of Journalism and Media at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
Aloe vera has been treasured for centuries for its healing and health-boosting properties. Beyond skincare, experts now highlight its internal benefits — from improved digestion to enhanced immunity and heart health—when taken as a daily juice.
Herbalists continue to emphasize the powerful role of aloe vera in maintaining overall wellness. Drinking its juice daily can bring visible and internal improvements, influencing everything from skin radiance to metabolic health.
According to experts, aloe vera juice contains natural enzymes that aid in digestion. These enzymes help reduce common gastrointestinal issues such as heartburn, indigestion, and constipation. Regular use can also help cleanse the intestines and promote smoother excretion, supporting a healthy digestive system.
Aloe vera is rich in vitamins A, C, and E — essential antioxidants that protect the body from harmful free radicals. These nutrients strengthen the immune system, allowing the body to better fight off infections and maintain overall resilience against illnesses.
Regular consumption of aloe vera juice helps hydrate the skin from within. It can minimize blemishes, spots, and dryness, giving the skin a natural softness and glow. Experts say the body’s detoxification through aloe vera also reflects on the face, making it appear fresher and healthier.
Aloe vera juice supports weight management by boosting metabolism. It helps the body utilize nutrients more efficiently, leading to increased energy levels and faster fat-burning. Consistent use, paired with a balanced diet, can aid in gradual weight reduction.
Studies suggest aloe vera juice may help regulate blood sugar levels in diabetic patients. However, experts strongly recommend consulting a doctor before adding it to your routine, especially for those already on diabetes medication.
Aloe vera juice contributes to a healthier heart by reducing cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Its natural anti-inflammatory properties also help stabilize blood pressure, supporting cardiovascular well-being over time.
Take a fresh aloe vera leaf and extract the transparent gel inside.
Wash the gel thoroughly to remove the yellow substance (aloin).
Blend the gel with one cup of water.
Add a little honey or lemon for taste.
Drink it fresh — or store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
While aloe vera juice is natural and beneficial, excessive consumption may cause side effects. Experts advise drinking it in moderation. Individuals with existing health conditions or those taking medication should consult their doctor before regular use.
Dermatologist Dr Manasi Shirolkar reveals simple, low-cost beauty habits that deliver visible results—some under Rs 50, some free, but all highly effective.
California considers banning sale of anti-aging products to minors
A California lawmaker introduced a bill that would stop the sale of anti-aging products to children, similar to a bill that failed to pass in 2024.
“Pretty Little Liars” star Shay Mitchell is receiving mixed feedback from parents after releasing a skincare line for children.
Mitchell, known for playing Emily Fields in “Pretty Little Liars,” launched Rini on Nov. 6. The line features face masks for youth aged 4 and up, which she says meets a growing demand of interest in skincare among children.
“So excited (and honestly, so relieved) that I can finally talk about Rini,” Mitchell, a mother of a 6-year-old and 3-year-old, said in an Instagram post introducing the brand. “Kids are naturally curious and instead of ignoring that, we can embrace it.”
However, the launch also comes at a time when parents, dermatologists and lawmakers are expressing caution about children’s use of adult-like products.
In 2024, the “Sephora Kids” trend gained traction on social media, featuring children running through Sephora aisles, shopping for skincare products to try out at home. The number of young creators sharing beauty routines has skyrocketed over the past year.
But not everyone is embracing the idea of skincare for kids.
One Instagram user commented on Mitchell’s post saying kids don’t need “to be sitting in front of a makeup mirror looking at themselves.”
“They should have playing and getting dirty and not caring what their skin looks like at that age. Sigh. This just seems so unnecessary.”
Upon its launch, Rini offers five face masks for children. Here’s a look at how the products are marketed:
Take a look at the ingredient lists for each of the face masks below.
Can’t see the chart in your browser? Visit infogram.com/1p779nlxvjxypwsz5lpn2l1ezjc5evw3ej.
Marisa Garshick, a dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology: Medical Dermatology and Cosmetic Surgery in New York, told USA TODAY that while it is good to acknowledge the importance of skincare, even at a young age, young children don’t need to use face masks. A gentle cleanser, moisturizer and sunscreen are all they need, she said.
California dermatologist Dr. Sam Ellis took to TikTok to share her frustrations with Rini.
“As a parent of an almost 4-year-old, I just think about, what do I want my kid focusing on at this stage in their life? For not one second do I really want them thinking about the quality of their skin or even taking care of their skin,” Ellis said in her video.
In another TikTok video, creator Ally Nelson described Rini’s marketing materials as “dystopian,” wishing the team used a more “playful, joyful approach.”
USA TODAY has reached out to reps for Mitchell about the backlash but has not yet received a response.
But not everyone thinks Rini is all bad.
“As a mom to a five-and-a-half-year-old, I think it’s a brilliant idea. My kid is always trying to do her skincare,” Daisy Jing, founder of at-home micro-needling line Banish, said in a recent TikTok video.
Content creator Isabelle Lux said while she largely agrees with the criticism, she think the brand could provide an opportunity for families to have healthy discussions about beauty standards.
“Girls right now are growing up in a society where this (beauty standards) is so much of value and so much a part of them. Maybe actually allowing them to use skincare as fun with their family and talk about it might actually help open them up to understanding that it is actually not that important, that your entire worth is not locked up in how you look,” Lux said in a TikTok video.
Another TikTok user, who commented on Lux’s video, agreed, providing the American Girl book, “Spa Fun: Pampering Tips and Treatments for Girls” as an example of a well-respected brand introducing such care to young girls.
“I am a ’90s baby. Skincare and spa treatments were always a part of sleepovers when I was a child,” the user commented. “I feel like this brand could’ve existed decades ago. The only thing that is new is the obsession with anti-aging and heightened beauty standards. I don’t think this brand is necessarily engaging in that, but I understand how it can come across as problematic in the current climate.”
As outlined by Rini co-founder Esther Son, the brand’s name is derived from “eorini,” which translates to “children” from Korean. And the Rini website states that all products are made in Korea.
Rini is just one U.S.-based skincare brand tapping into Korean skincare, or K-Beauty. Content creator Mikayla Nogueira’s skincare line, Point of View, which was released earlier this year, is also made in Korea.
The boom of K-Beauty in the U.S. is not a new phenomenon but has only grown in popularity with the increase of Korean media, like K-Pop.
Anna Lee, a content creator based in South Korea, said she has been surprised by the amount of backlash Rini has received, as skincare routines for children are common in Korea.
“For Korean moms, using skincare on kids is not a new or foreign concept,” Lee said in a TikTok video. “Kid-safe skincare lines do exist in Korea, so I don’t really personally see a problem with this.”
Rini boasts dermatologist-tested, hypoallergenic and vegan products.
Garshick said while the ingredients in the Rini face masks are not “necessarily harsh,” and can be safe for occasional use, they are not necessary for routine use.
“Too many ingredients, even if not individually harmful, may still contribute to skin irritation and sensitivity,” she said.
Greta Cross is a national trending reporter at USA TODAY. Story idea? Email her at gcross@usatoday.com.
Flawless from head to toe! Manucurist founder Gaëlle Lebrat Personnaz wants you to treat your nails like your skin, and celebs like Jennifer Lopez, Hailey Bieber, Margot Robbie, and Gwyneth Paltrow have already gotten the memo.
Not only do the lacquers come in 90+ shades to complement every look, but the vegan, plant-based formulas also take a skincare first approach to nailcare with products that plump, brighten, smooth, and protect.
“Your nails are just as sensitive as your skin,” the CEO tells ET. “Like our skin, nails are exposed to environmental stress, lifestyle habits, and daily wear. You wouldn’t apply a glowing foundation to damaged skin, and the same logic applies here.”
Manucurist
When it comes to nailing the perfect mani, Personnaz says prep is key.
“Always file in one direction, soften cuticles with a drop of emollient, gently buff the surface, and clean the nail plate with a mild remover. Then, apply a thin base layer, two coats of color, and a topcoat.”
From there, use the Active treatment range for polishes that double as serums.
“You can wear them solo, but the real fun is in the layering. Apply one, two, or even three together to create different finishes, just like you would with your makeup routine. It’s nail care that plays like beauty.”
Manucurist
For extra shine, Personnaz reaches for the Green Flash collection for salon-level results or a trend-forward twist.
“I’m inspired by the worlds of fashion, design, art, and even travel. A nail color should spark emotion, just as a beautiful garment or a work of art would,” she shares.
Right now, it’s all about the reimagined French manicure with “micro, upside-down, multicolored and textured pearl, glazed, or glossy tips.”
Because for Personnaz, nails aren’t just an accessory, they’re a statement.
Manucurist
“A manicure is that little detail that changes everything. Like a great pair of shoes or a beautiful bag, it completes your look. Well-groomed nails show that you care about yourself and it gives your confidence,” she notes.
To maintain her mani, the businesswoman always keeps hydrating staples and handy tools close.
“I finish my face routine by applying the extra product to my hands and use the rose nouvelle balm to hydrate my cuticles, hands, and lips. I carry our gentle glass nail file, and whenever I travel, I bring the Complete Nail Serum with me. Before bed, I massage in some cuticle oil for soft hands by morning.”
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Think of this beauty approach as a savings account for your skin. Instead of waiting for fine lines and sagging to show up, experts recommend “depositing” collage to your skin to reap the benefits later. Collagen banking— a combination of in-clinic biostimulatory treatments (that prompt your immune system to produce collagen), smart at-home routines and lifestyle choices — is redefining preventative skincare. Once a niche concept whispered about in dermatologist offices, it is now trending in the beauty world. But what is collagen banking and how do you know if it’s right for you?
We sat down with Dr Alek Nikolic, renowned aesthetic medicine specialist, to unpack the science, the hype and the insider tips behind this future-focused approach to skin longevity.
GLAMOUR: For those new to the concept, what is collagen banking and how does it work in the skin?
Dr Nikolic: Simply put, collagen banking is building up extra collagen — a “bank” — so that, when ageing starts taking place, that process is slowed down. In our 30s we already start producing less collagen. By increasing the stores of collagen in the skin early on, there’s more to draw from later — which means the visible signs of ageing appear more slowly.
G: How does collagen banking differ from everyday “anti-ageing” treatments or a good skincare routine?
Dr Nikolic: It’s not entirely different. You’re still stimulating collagen, but you get a much greater degree of stimulation with certain procedures than you can with topicals alone. A skincare regime can only achieve so much; treatments like fractional lasers, skin boosters or needling devices stimulate far more collagen and therefore create a bigger “bank.”
G: Can you walk us through the most effective professional treatments for stimulating new collagen?
Dr Nikolic: Injectable skin boosters are at the top; they’re hyaluronic acid-based injectables designed to increase collagen production and improve its structure. Dermapen or needling creates controlled micro-injuries at a set depth in the skin to trigger new collagen, and fractional lasers work on a similar principle but use laser energy instead of needles. These all stimulate collagen — and even elastin — during the healing phase.
G: How does collagen production differ when you’re in your 20s compared to when you’re in your 40s?
Dr Nikolic: In your 20s, your collagen is still healthy, thick and well-orientated. Production is at its peak. By your30s, it begins to decline but you don’t notice it yet because your skin is still thick enough. In your 40s and 50s,the change is obvious — biopsies show thinner skin, fewer collagen fibres and a looser structure compared to someone in their 20s.
G: Besides in-clinic procedures, what at-home habits or products can help preserve collagen?
Dr Nikolic: From a young age, keep it simple but consistent. Cleanser and moisturiser day and night, and SPF every morning (this is a non-negotiable for protecting collagen). Add a vitamin C serum in the morning, retinol or vitamin C at night, and a gentle alpha- or beta-hydroxy acid(AHA or BHA) exfoliator a few times a week to encourage cell renewal and collagen production.
G: Are some areas of the face or body more responsive to collagen banking than others?
Dr Nikolic: Yes. The thicker the skin, the better the response. Skin on your body, for instance, responds more robustly than facial skin. The thinnest skin on the body is the skin around the eye area, which is the first to show signs of sun damage and ageing — and it’s also one of the most difficult areas to treat. Genetics also play a role: someone with naturally thicker, more collagen-rich skin will respond better to collagen stimulating treatments.
G: Are there any risks of overdoing collagen-stimulating treatments?
Dr Nikolic: It’s less about “too much collagen” and more about not giving the skin time to heal. Once you stimulate collagen, give it at least three to four weeks to form before doing another treatment. For example, a Dermapen session followed by a laser two weeks later is too soon; spacing them six weeks apart is perfectly safe.
G: What skin treatments would you recommend for different skin types?
Dr Nikolic: Here’s a general guideline:
G: What advice do you have for someone nervous about trying aesthetic skincare treatments?
Dr Nikolic: Do your research and find a clinic that listens to you. In our practice, everyone starts with a full skin analysis and, if needed, patch tests before treatments. Ask about side effects, benefits, costs and treatment intervals. You don’t have to commit to a procedure on the first visit —book a consultation, see how you feel and decide from there.
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What’s the story
Cymbopogon, a plant native to Cape Verde, is making waves for its health benefits.
The grass, commonly known as lemongrass, is known for its aromatic properties and medicinal benefits.
From traditional medicine to modern wellness practices, Cymbopogon has been used for centuries.
Its essential oils are now being used in various health and beauty products around the world.
Cymbopogon has a strong citrus aroma, which makes it a popular choice in aromatherapy.
The essential oil extracted from the plant is known to relieve stress and promote relaxation.
When diffused in the air or added to bathwater, it can create a calming environment.
The aroma of Cymbopogon can also help improve mood and reduce anxiety levels.
The antibacterial and antifungal properties of Cymbopogon make it an excellent ingredient for skincare products.
It is commonly used in lotions, creams, and soaps to keep skin healthy.
The oil can help reduce acne by killing bacteria on the skin’s surface. It also acts as a natural toner, tightening pores and giving skin an even tone.
Cymbopogon has traditionally been used to promote digestive health.
Drinking tea made from lemongrass leaves may help with indigestion and bloating by relaxing stomach muscles.
Its anti-inflammatory properties may also help reduce symptoms of gastrointestinal disorders.
Regular consumption could support overall digestive function.
Incorporating Cymbopogon into your daily routine can be easy and rewarding.
Start with adding a few drops of lemongrass essential oil into your diffuser during meditation or yoga sessions for enhanced relaxation benefits.
For skincare enthusiasts, look for products containing Cymbopogon as an active ingredient or create DIY skincare remedies at home using this versatile plant extract.
Written by ALLISON ARBUTHNOT SANDERS
THE COUNTDOWN TO THE HOLIDAYS IS UNDERWAY. This year, as you zoom around doing things for others, why not also treat yourself to a gift that goes beyond the box and bow by indulging in one of the many options for noninvasive cosmetic procedures available in Savannah? That way, you’ll head into the holidays looking and feeling your best.
Hydrafacial // Courtesy Altera Aesthetix
Unlike traditional facials, the Hydrafacial uses a patented technology to deeply cleanse, exfoliate, extract impurities, and infuse nourishing serums all in one session. The treatment is designed to improve overall skin health while addressing specific concerns like fine lines, uneven tone and texture, and enlarged pores, says Janie Futch, co-owner of Altera Aesthetix. “Because it’s noninvasive and customizable, many people make it a regular part of their skincare regimen,” she adds, noting that results can last up to a week or more, making it a favorite for both event prep and monthly skin maintenance. “It’s perfect for anyone who wants healthier, more radiant skin without downtime,” she says. “It’s gentle yet effective and works well for nearly all skin types and ages.”
Skinvive by Juvéderm // Courtesy Glow Medical Spa and Beauty Boutique
Are you looking for a facial beauty boost but shy away from interventions like neurotoxins and fillers for fear of looking overdone? New to the industry, Skinvive is a hyaluronic acid-based injectable treatment designed to boost elasticity, hydration, and smoothness without plumping the face. “It’s skincare that you do as an injectable,” says Courtney Victor, owner of Glow Medical Spa and Beauty Boutique. Results, she says, present “about a month after you get it, and it lasts for six months. You’ll look as if you’ve had a facial every day.” It’s a great alternative to expensive creams and 12-step skincare routines, says Victor. “I used to say, ‘You treat yourself 60 times a month: every morning and every night when you do your skincare.’ But Skinvive is a nice little hack. You don’t have to wait a long time to see your skin transform, nor do you have to purchase a bunch of products. You’re taking care of your skin from within.”
Liquid Facelift // Courtesy Tox Medspa
If you’ve been dreaming of the overall refresh provided by a facelift but aren’t interested in the cost and recovery time of surgery, a liquid facelift may be just the solution. A liquid facelift uses strategically placed dermal filler to lift, recontour, and hydrate the face almost instantly. “While it doesn’t replace a surgical facelift, it can tighten tissue, restore lost volume, and create a lifted, refreshed appearance,” says Dallas Sellars, owner of Tox Medspa. In a single session, Sellars can address sunken temples, cheeks, jawline, chin, marionette lines, and more, creating a natural, balanced look — no scalpel required. Results are visible immediately and can last up to two years for the upper half of the face and one year to 18 months on the lower half of the face. “If you are wanting to refresh your look, a liquid facelift can be a transformative part of your aesthetic journey,” says Sellars.
At Savannah Facial Plastic Surgery, Dr. Timothy Minton’s favorite approach to a quick refresh is to combine two longstanding laser treatments: Broadband Light (BBL) Therapy and Light Fractional CO2 Laser Peel. “This combination is a super popular treatment that I’ve been doing for many, many years,” Minton says. “It’s tried and true.” BBL Therapy uses a laser to reverse the coloration changes that occur with sun exposure — like redness, sun spots, and pigmentation. The Light Fractional CO2 Laser Peel addresses textural changes, including pore size, fine lines, and wrinkles. Together, Minton says, “It reverses some of the sun damage and gives the skin a glow and a little tightening effect.” He also notes, “There is also permanent collagen stimulation that occurs [with the treatment], as well as a reversal of DNA changes and DNA damage that occur. It’s a nice way to keep the skin youthful at a molecular level in addition to a visual level,” explains Minton. Depending on their goals, patients typically receive between one and three 30-minute treatments, each requiring one to two days of downtime for pinkness to subside. While results are permanent, many patients repeat the procedure every winter to combat new sun damage.
VI Peel // Courtesy Inject Savannah
The VI Peel is a medical-grade chemical peel that works by gently exfoliating the outermost layers of skin. It contains a blend of ingredients, including retinoic acid and trichloroacetic acid, that penetrate the skin to remove dead skin cells, promote cell turnover, and boost collagen production. Usually done in a three- to five-treatment series, the VI Peel smooths skin texture, evens skin tone, reduces acne and scars, and brightens the complexion. “What’s so great about it is that it is suitable for all skin tones, including darker skin types that can be at risk for hyperpigmentation with certain peels,” says Kelly Rogers, owner of Inject Savannah. Rogers recommends beginning a VI Peel series two weeks to a month before any major event, noting that there is significant aftercare required. Visible improvements can be seen within a week and will continue to occur for several weeks as the treated skin heals. This treatment is not just for the face, notes Rogers. “We also offer body peels, including chest, arms, and legs,” she says. “We do a lot of lower legs, which is great after the summer to remove sun spots.”
Virtue RF // Courtesy Chatham Plastic Surgery
Virtue RF is a radiofrequency microneedling procedure used to treat sagging, laxity (signs of aging), and acne scarring while improving the tone and texture of the skin. “The procedure consists of using needles to create microchannel punctures in the skin,” explains Michelle Turley, an aesthetician at Chatham Plastic Surgery. “That starts a cascade wound-healing process to regenerate new, healthy skin.” Meanwhile, the tips of the needles deliver radiofrequency energy, heating up the deeper layers of the skin. “This stimulates fibroblasts [cells that provide structural support for tissues] to produce new collagen and elastin,” says Turley, “improving skin firmness, elasticity, and texture.” Virtue RF is suitable for patients looking to treat aging skin or scarring without downtime or surgery. A typical treatment, including face and neck, takes about an hour. Treatments are done in a series of three to six sessions, spaced four to six weeks apart.
PRX-T33 Peel // Courtesy Savvy Skin Medical Aesthetics
At Savvy Skin Medical Aesthetics, owner Karen Bouchard’s current favorite noninvasive treatment is PRX-T33, an advanced biorevitalization peel that delivers the skin-renewing benefits of a chemical peel without the telltale peeling or days of downtime. PRX-T33 uses a formulation that stimulates dermal regeneration beneath the surface, building collagen, smoothing texture, brightening and evening skin tone, and softening pigmentation. “Think of it as an inside-out treatment,” says Bouchard. “Patients leave with a luminous glow — no hiding at home for recovery.” To elevate the treatment, Bouchard recommends pairing it with a neurotoxin to address both surface quality and underlying movement for a refreshed, naturally youthful look. “The dual approach creates a radiant, lifted appearance that looks effortless,” says Bouchard. Ideal for the face, neck, décolletage, and even the hands, most patients notice visible improvement after a single 30-minute treatment, with a series of treatments delivering long-lasting firmness and brightness. Results last four to six months.
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