Curling Wand Tutorial: 12 Tips for Beachy, Vintage Waves With Any Curl Type

Table Of Content

• What’s the best way to avoid a burn when using a curling iron?
• Best for Tight Curls: Mint Tools Professional Series 3/8-Inch Curling Wand
• Here are a few of the best curling wands you can get online right now.
• Best Beard Butter For African American Men 2024 And Other Beard Care Products
• Conair Double Ceramic Curling Wand

Give your hair a boost with volume-enhancing products, such as mousse or styling sprays, before curling it with the wand. Preparing your locks correctly is key to getting long-lasting curls. Braiding sections of hair and alternating directions when wrapping around the barrel can help create tight curls. Then, divide the hair into sections and wrap it around the wand to create s-shaped waves. Finish by using a wide-toothed comb to achieve flawless separation.

What’s the best way to avoid a burn when using a curling iron?

However, it’s really easy to change between attachments, so this shouldn’t be too much of a hassle. This cutting-edge hair tool is ultra-versatile, and allows users to switch between different attachments based on what kind of hairstyle they want to achieve. Choose between a slew of stylers including a handful of brushes (complete with round, oval, and paddle options), as well as a curl diffuser, style concentrator, and wide-tooth comb. Plus, you can also choose two auto-wrap curlers, which are our personal favorites.

Best for Tight Curls: Mint Tools Professional Series 3/8-Inch Curling Wand

Another feature I like is the automatic shutoff, which is helpful when you’re in a rush and forget to switch the device off. The curler also comes with a protective glove and a swivel cord for safety and ease of use. Worse, you might end up burning yourself by accident because the hot tool is so hard to control when you have short hair. So, that would be all for helping you learn how to curl your hair.

Here are a few of the best curling wands you can get online right now.

Both of these traits keep the curls from molding into a strategically tapered curl, which can sometimes look too perfect and unnatural. The slight taper and the gritty finish of the barrel keeps the hair from sliding down as it can do with a barrel that has a super-glossy finish. All of these hair tools are perfect for tossing waves into a pin-straight style or for an elegant ‘do complete with cascading barrel curls.

Not to mention, the baby pink hue of the wand is so aesthetically pleasing. The one thing it’s lacking is a built-in safety stand, so keep an eye on it while using to ensure it doesn’t singe the surface it’s on. In terms of an affordable, long-lasting curling wand, you can’t go wrong with this one from FoxyBae.

ghd Curve Creative Curl Wand

This Heatless Curl Headband Halved My Morning Routine - Refinery29 Australia

This Heatless Curl Headband Halved My Morning Routine.

Posted: Wed, 11 Oct 2023 07:00:00 GMT [source]

If you’re worried about injuring yourself while using this wand, you might want to invest in a five-finger glove. As with any hot tool, be sure to use heat protection spray before styling. “Whether it’s damp, clean, or day two hair, a light spray is good for all hair types,” notes Sherry.

The ceramic coating ensures hair cuticles remain smooth and frizz-free. You’ll definitely get the most bang for your buck with this curling wand, as you get five differently-shaped and sized barrels for just under $40. And like many of the others on this list, this wand’s high-quality ceramic-tourmaline hybrid design ensures that curls both lock in moisture and hold for a long time. If you’re looking for a funky, clamp-free curling wand that will deliver interestingly-textured waves, choose this one.

If you're after bouncy waves, you're going to want to know about these curling wands

As Who What Wear UK's junior beauty editor, she covers everything from the latest hair trends to the stand-out makeup products of the season. Whether your hair is thick or fine, get perfect curls with one of these expert picks. But if you still don't, then at least trust this invisible lightweight hairspray. It gives you that flexible-yet-natural hold that keeps flyaways in place without feeling like a helmet, and never, ever, ever feels sticky or crunchy.

Best curling wands – Cyber Monday and Black Friday discounts - Digital Spy

Best curling wands – Cyber Monday and Black Friday discounts.

Posted: Mon, 27 Nov 2023 08:00:00 GMT [source]

Conair Double Ceramic Curling Wand

The clamp-free conical barrel means you’ll get looser curls at the root without frying the ends. Its tourmaline-ceramic blend spreads heat evenly across your hair, which produces a more uniform curl texture. While stylists typically prefer ceramic and titanium curling wands, there are a few other great materials some wands are made of. For example, you can also find a wide selection of gold-plated and tourmaline curling wands. Interestingly, each material boasts different benefits for different hair types. At first look, the Bed Head Tourmaline Ceramic Bubble Curling Iron Wand can be intimidating.

Also, its temperature setting has an easy-to-read (and control) digital display that will reach up to 450 degrees for thicker, more stubborn hair types. We noticed that there was no drop to our curls as time wore on, earning this wand a 5/5 rating for curl retention. Overall, we felt that this wand would be a match made in heaven for any hair chameleon and would cater to the needs of varying hair densities and textures.

Return policies are not listed for the GHD Curling Wand and Alure Three-Barrel Curling Wand. However, this wand isn’t recommended for beginners, as it’s a bit hard to handle. Catch up on Select's in-depth coverage of personal finance, tech and tools, wellness and more, and follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter to stay up to date. If you want a more relaxed finish, brush through your curls with a wide-tooth comb like this one. ©2024 Reviewed, a division of Gannett Satellite Information Network LLC. Purchases made through the links below may earn us and our publishing partners a commission.

This affordable high street option is formulated with fine, flat hair in mind. It has such great reviews for its strong hold with no stickiness or crunch. This set of five jumbo hot rollers is convenient for home and travel alike, and great for longer hair. But if that won’t quite cut it, you can also choose from options with additional rollers. These no-fuss, self-gripping rollers are great for adding lift to bobs and other shorter hairstyles.

The Chi Spin N Curl Ceramic Rotating Hair Curler is the oddest looking curling tool I’ve ever seen. It’s one that makes you—dare I say—pull out the instruction manual. If it delivers amazing results, though, I don’t mind consulting the instruction manual before diving into a beauty or styling tool. The Chi is incredibly easy to use once you practice with one or two strands of hair, it feels very durable, and the mechanism it uses keeps you from burning yourself. If you have fine hair and are worried about heat damage, you may opt for a product that allows you to choose a lower temperature, but I liked the fuss-free nature of this and wouldn’t hesitate to use it again.

20 Best Growth Vitamins For Thinning Hair, Per Dermatologists

Table Of Content

• Vitamins & Nutrients To Boost Hair Growth, According To A Trichologist*
• Best Overall: Nutrafol Women’s Hair Growth Supplements, Ages 18-44
• Dandruff Products
• What are the best hair growth nutrients?
• Thorne Basic Nutrients 2x/Day

Some are overhyped, others are downright ineffective, and still others carry harmful side effects. To help you sift through the options–and determine which tablets, capsules, or gummies are worth your dollars–we consulted dermatologists. Here are the best hair growth vitamins worth considering, plus answers to commonly asked questions. Topical minoxidil—or Rogaine—is effective for both male and female hair loss, as well as hair loss due to chemotherapy, says Rina M. Allawh, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Pennsylvania. The formula is available in both 2 percent and 5 percent topical solutions and 5 percent foam.

15 Best Hair Growth Vitamins and Supplements, According to Experts 2024 - ELLE

15 Best Hair Growth Vitamins and Supplements, According to Experts 2024.

Posted: Tue, 19 Dec 2023 08:00:00 GMT [source]

Vitamins & Nutrients To Boost Hair Growth, According To A Trichologist*

The 7 Best Vitamins for Hair, Skin, and Nails of 2024 - Healthline

The 7 Best Vitamins for Hair, Skin, and Nails of 2024.

Posted: Mon, 15 Apr 2024 07:00:00 GMT [source]

It's no secret that the maintenance experts at Briogeo know a thing or two about hair growth, which is why these top-rated supplements are a hit among shoppers. The vegan tablets blend ingredients like biotin and omegas 3, 6, and 9 to help fortify hair from the inside out. Although the right growth vitamins can help mitigate hair loss with continued use, professionals advise speaking with an expert to find out the true root cause to prevent more thinning in the long run. If you're unsure what's causing your hair thinning, Sheikh advises consulting an expert to determine the origin of hair loss, and collaborate on a solution that works best for your needs. "Vitamins usually only work if there is a deficiency in the first instance," Sey says.

Best Overall: Nutrafol Women’s Hair Growth Supplements, Ages 18-44

Hormonal changes during and after pregnancy are the culprits of this hair loss. After childbirth, hormone levels drop rapidly, forcing many hair follicles to rest. Thus, 30% to 60% of hairs drop concurrently, causing hair loss,” explains Shara Cohen, PhD. So, while getting enough nutrients postpartum is important for supporting hair growth, a supplement is mainly helpful for post-partum hair growth if you’re not getting enough hair growth vitamins in your diet. From celebrity trichologist Helen Reavey, Act+Acre’s plant-based hair capsules aim to combat hair shedding and support healthy hair growth using horsetail extract and amino acids. These ingredients have been studied to help boost the strength of strands and provide nutritional support to optimize hair follicle function.

Dandruff Products

Each bottle contains 30 day supply and you need to take it every day for the best results. While factors such as age, genetics, hormones, and medication may affect your hair, nutrition is key for hair health throughout life. In particular, vitamins B, C, and D, plus iron and zinc, appear to play important roles in hair growth and thickness.

Still, discuss with a healthcare provider whether adding collagen to your daily routine is right for you. Supplements aren't regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the same way that medications are in the United States. Check with a healthcare provider before trying one out to ensure you're not getting too much of a particular vitamin or nutrient. This article provides an overview of effective strategies for promoting the hair growth process. Zinc pyrithione is the active ingredient in some over-the-counter anti-dandruff shampoos. Dr. Khetarpal also suggests considering the following to help with your hair growth goals.

Thorne Basic Nutrients 2x/Day

I didn’t test this one, but Richards recommends this mask for those looking to take extra care of color-treated hair. This spray leave-in treatment from SheaMoisture is easy on the wallet and easy to apply (spray it on damp hair, starting midway down to detangle and address frizz). Keeping an eye out for certain ingredients, avoiding others, and making small shifts in your hair routine can make a big difference in keeping moisture in your hair.

She lives in New York City with her husband Bart and four-legged son Cooper, is a huge animal lover, Netflix aficionado and martini enthusiast. Your health and wellness is unique to you, and the products and services we review may not be right for your circumstances. “These are formulated with all-natural and clinically-proven ingredients that can make a difference in your hair with consistent usage,” she says. Research shows you can easily reach the daily allowances of B vitamins by eating a balanced diet.

Best for Damaged Hair: Kérastase Genesis Fortifiant Hair Serum

By the three-month mark, the majority of our panel reported more voluminous hair, while just over half thought their locks looked shinier, stronger and thicker. Medical studies have found that our bodies absorb liquids the fastest, in just one to four minutes. Tablets, meanwhile, can take up to half an hour to break down and be liquidised in our stomachs. Because the body doesn't need to break down a liquid, a higher percentage of its nutrients are absorbed — 98% compared to 53% from tablets, according to Medicare. Choosing which hair supplements to try can feel overwhelming, with a huge range of tablets, gummies and liquids on offer.

Naturally Stimulating Hair Growth (Without Supplements)

"Usually the shock can be cause by high grade fever, childbirth, surgery, or emotional distress." HairAnew's vegan formula contains biotin, vitamin B, vitamin C, and zinc. "These boost its ability to nourish the hair follicles," explains Dr. Reid. "I like it for my patients with sensitivities, as HairAnew is sugar-free and contains no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives." Like Nutrafol, Viviscal is backed by peer reviews from dermatologists and clinical studies, says Dr. González.

Hair growth is largely impacted by genetics, but other factors can affect how long and strong your strands are. While hair grows naturally in a cycle, it may be possible to support even quicker hair growth with scalp and hair health products, lifestyle adjustments, and gentle hair care habits. In addition, hair growth vitamins are dietary supplements regulated as foods by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), meaning manufacturers are not required to provide proof of safety, quality or efficacy prior to sale. Because of this, choosing a hair growth supplement that has been third-party tested can ensure that the product contains the ingredients listed on the label.

Another gummy option, this one contains biotin, vitamin C, and keratin to support healthy hair, skin, and nails, and it's grapefruit flavored. These coveted supplements from Moon Juice are created to help control cortisol (the stress hormone), thanks to adaptogens like ashwagandha and ginseng. They also feature a bevy of vitamins, minerals, and micronutrients needed to support continuous hair growth.

The pill contains Q10, "a coenzyme that's been shown to stimulate the expression of different hair keratin proteins, thereby promoting hair growth," she adds. Plus, the turmeric powder inside is a biggie add-in for its anti-inflammatory properties and antioxidant effects. With biotin, vitamin C, and folic acid, these gummies (that you've probably seen all over Instagram) might just be what your hair is missing. People with concerns about hair loss can visit a dermatologist to determine the cause of any hair growth problems. Although many vitamin and mineral supplements can be helpful for certain populations, it is important to purchase these products from reputable companies that have their products tested by independent third parties for quality and purity. It is also worth noting that most clinical trials into the effectiveness of hair growth products such as Rogaine and finasteride (Propecia) have used male participants.

14 Best Curling Irons and Wands of 2024 for Every Hair Type

Table Of Content

• Ghd Creative Curl Tapered Wand
• How Do I Clean My Curling Wand?
• Best Single Pass Curling Iron: T3 SinglePass Curl 1.25" Ceramic Long Barrel Curling and Wave Iron
• BATOUDE Heatless Curling Rod Headband
• Trust Me: These Elite Curling Wands Will Leave You With Bouncy, Voluminous Waves

No matter what you seek or your individual needs and concerns, Allure wants to ensure that you love anything we recommend in our stories. We believe that having a diverse team of writers and editors — in addition to the wide range of outside testers and industry experts we regularly call upon — is essential to reaching that goal. Jessica (she/her) is a deputy editor at the Good Housekeeping Institute and a longtime product tester, reviewer, writer and editor of beauty and lifestyle content. You can usually find her sorting through piles of beauty products — and testing the best ones on camera. On top of that, consider what type of curl you're trying to achieve.

Ghd Creative Curl Tapered Wand

I like to section hair in 1-inch pieces, curling away from my face. Once you get the technique down, you can create any style your heart desires – from retro pin curls to beachy, bedhead texture. Prep your locks with products too – this creates the ideal base for lasting, touchable waves. Then section your hair and wind it around the wand from ends to root in one fluid motion. Ok, I'm not going to lie, I was a tad sceptical of this automatic curl machine (surely it's easier to just use a wand, right?) Well, not necessarily. This snazzy machine 'sucks in' a strand of hair and rotates it around a heated core, it's then released into a perfectly formed ringlet.

How Do I Clean My Curling Wand?

She’s obsessed with skincare that makes her skin bouncy and glowy, low-maintenance hair that doesn’t require brushing and a cracking good manicure. This one is very much like a tong, and yet the clamp is in itself also a heated plate. The difference is a tong has a clamp to hold the hair in place, which makes them a bit better for beginners, while the wand doesn't. If you're after a disco, Studio 54 look then keep an eye out for one of these. The width of the barrel is important because that will determine the look you're after.

Best automatic hair curlers 2024: Perfect waves in super-quick time - Expert Reviews

Best automatic hair curlers 2024: Perfect waves in super-quick time.

Posted: Tue, 06 Feb 2024 08:00:00 GMT [source]

Best Single Pass Curling Iron: T3 SinglePass Curl 1.25" Ceramic Long Barrel Curling and Wave Iron

Shield strands from heat harm so they may revel freely in fluid waves and curls shaped with a caring hand. Alternate the hair twisting direction and let curls drop while they cool. Maintenance is key, so keep your wand clean for smooth gliding and consistent, flawless results. The straightening bristles effortlessly comb through all hair lengths and types, from fine to coarse. Prepare for heat styling without damage using this must-have detangling brush. With practice, you’ll master all the wand curling tricks for consistent curls.

Best Hair Curlers For Gorgeous Beach Waves Hair In Minutes - The Times of India

Best Hair Curlers For Gorgeous Beach Waves Hair In Minutes.

Posted: Sat, 30 Mar 2024 07:00:00 GMT [source]

The digital readout makes it easy to remember what setting you’re on. The curler lets you adjust the temperature with a press of a button. The barrel heats up in 30 seconds so you can curl your locks stat.

BATOUDE Heatless Curling Rod Headband

Let’s talk about how you can use your wand to create soft waves, add volume, and more. We will note that you can’t see the actual temperature of the tool, rather, a little LED light will illuminate when it’s at 250, 300, 350, 400, or 450 degrees. Cosmopolitan participates in various affiliate marketing programs, which means we may get paid commissions on editorially chosen products purchased through our links to retailer sites.

Trust Me: These Elite Curling Wands Will Leave You With Bouncy, Voluminous Waves

The wand was easy to wield and wrap my hair around, and the result was spiral curls that I finger-combed for my desired tousled, curly waves. I enjoyed the glossiness of the barrels, which are undeniably beautiful in white with rose gold trim. The wand has five lights that each indicate a heat setting, though I wasn’t sure how many degrees each one reaches, and the instructions don’t clarify other than to say that the maximum temperature is 410°F. I chose the second setting closest to the top because I typically choose the second or third highest heat range and watched the lights cascade upward until they reached my chosen (but unknown) temperature.

Add a little spritz of hairspray and use a wide-tooth comb to loosen the waves even more and give a natural-looking finish. This waving wand gives an effortless bend to the hair that looks incredibly natural. If you want loose 'S' waves this oval-shaped wand is well worth checking out. At £25, it's pretty affordable for a curling tong but still has a ceramic-coated barrel for smooth styling. The base of the wand is designed to be interchangeable, so you can purchase different-shaped barrels from VO5 (all of which can be clipped onto the base). This multi-barrelled wand is great for producing soft, beachy waves in a matter of minutes; even people with long hair can get it all curled in under ten minutes.

A curler with a sizeable barrel won’t work because the width of the barrel won’t give you the control you need for precise styling. This clever curler has a rotating clamp, which allows for extra movement when styling. The barrel itself features ionic technology designed to seal the cuticles of the hair, for less frizz and extra shine.

Plus, thanks to the 1¼ -inch barrel, you can achieve a variety of curl styles (like loose waves, ribbon curls, and more), no matter what length your hair is. On top of that, it has two different rotating speeds, so you can adjust it according to your preference. Although we love this tool, it’s worth noting that it’s not totally intuitive to use unless you read the manual. Aside from the temperature display, check out how many heat settings a curling wand has. The more settings the wand has, the more likely it is to work on different types and textures of hair.

It is known to be easy to use, quick to heat up, and very good for its price. We considered buyer reviews and social media trends, as well as brands' statements about the materials, science, and achievements behind their curling wands. In considering these descriptions, with the prices, styles, and, of course, hair types, we found many incredible options that shouldn't disappoint. We hope that you'll find at least one curling wand on this list that will suit your hair type and give you the perfect waves or curls that you've been searching for. The best thing about the humble curling wand is its versatility as a tool. Sure, you can execute perfectly defined curls, but you can also use a curling wand to create texture.

In terms of the curls it produces, you can experiment with both barrel sizes to achieve different looks. When it comes to selecting the size of your curling wand barrel, taking your hair’s length and desired results should be your top considerations. If you desire looser curls or beachy waves, choose a larger barrel, says celebrity hairstylist Sally Hershberger.

You won’t strain yourself just to get bombastic curls and the tangle-free cord makes the Nano Titanium spring curler so easy and convenient to use. Wrapping hair just-so around the barrel creates bombshell, vintage-glam waves. Whether you want loose, beachy tendrils or va-va-voom volume, you now have the know-how to style swoon-worthy curls that’ll turn heads. Aside from the tool’s rotating abilities, this iron also has other impressive features, including its 1.2-inch ceramic barrel that helps to reduce frizz and add shine. Additionally, it has a nine-foot swivel cord, as well as a feature that shuts it down after one hour of use.

This lightweight wand was a favorite during testing, and it's easy to understand why. The uniquely flattened taper shape of the rod offers some styling versatility, from a tighter hold to a looser, beach-like wave. It took about 10 to 15 seconds to achieve a full-bodied curl, and you can achieve loose waves if you leave this curling wand on for less time.

I prefer a loose, tousled curl to a tight ringlet, and I attempted to create that look when I tested the irons and wands on this list. The wand looks ordinary, but it offers a single on and off switch with zero heat settings or ways to adjust the temperature. You need to look at the instructions to learn that the temperature heats up to a high of 400°F. When I flipped the switch, it lit up green, but with no blinking or changing of colors that indicated it was ready to use. When it comes to finding the best curling iron, size really does matter — and the same goes for shape.

15 Best Hair Growth Vitamins and Supplements, According to Experts 2024

Table Of Content

• Do hair vitamins work?
• Folic Acid
• The Edit: Beauty
• Wellbel Glam Lab Dietary Supplement
• How we chose the best vitamins for hair growth
• Vitamin A

If the full-size bottle price tag seems steep, the travel size is available at around half the cost (I use this size, and it lasts me quite a long time!). The brand formulated this pick using a six-oil blend that’s said to be suitable for all hair types, densities and textures. I’m calling this shampoo out specifically for how well it works on straw-like dry hair. But it’s definitely best when used as part of a system of its sister products. Like the Rahua leave-in treatment at the top of our list, this product also protects against heat, making it an excellent choice before using hot tools.

Do hair vitamins work?

All that said, Han recommends this budget-friendly shampoo because it contains more than one active ingredient to address dandruff and was named a top pick for those with oily scalps in our guide to the best dandruff shampoos. One is selenium sulfide, — this combats the overgrowth of Malassezia yeast, which is linked to the development of dandruff. The other is salicylic acid, which can help break down the scales and flakes on your scalp so they wash away more easily. Ultimately, finding the right shampoo for hair growth depends on your specific hair texture, concerns, and goals.

Folic Acid

And while you can reach for a hair growth supplement to reach your goals, incorporating these vitamins into your diet is beneficial, too. Your body possesses antioxidants that curtail free radicals' hair damage by balancing their electrons when you do. Along with balancing the scales, Vitamin C aids your body in producing collagen (prevents hair from graying prematurely) and absorbing iron which can help hair grow. Smoking, drinking alcohol and having a poor diet can lead to a vitamin C deficiency. Beth Gillette is the beauty editor at Cosmopolitan with nearly six years of experience researching, writing, and editing hair stories that range from scalp acne shampoos to deep conditioners. She’s an authority in all hair categories but is an expert when it comes to hair-growth vitamins, thanks to interviewing dermatologists and doctors about how they work and which are actually worth trying.

The Edit: Beauty

Three capsules a day of this supplement will jumpstart your journey to thicker, fuller hair. Created by triple-board certified and Harvard-trained physician Daniel Yadegar, Wellbel Women supports healthy hair, skin, and nails with a balanced dose of biotin, plus saw palmetto, MSM, and betaine HCI. Per the brand, the formula is vegan, gluten-free, non-GMO, and made without any harmful fillers or artificial dyes. "This great formulation promotes hair growth through a balanced ingredient list which also contains a DHT blocker," says Hope Mitchell, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Perrysburg. It shrinks hair follicles and shortens the hair growth cycle, Dr. Mitchell explains. So, by blocking it, you can help "prevent thinning and promote follicular growth," she adds.

The 13 Best Hair Masks for Growth and Retention

Kobets says yes, but warns to be careful not to overdo it if your hair is fine, saying it will decrease volume and weigh fine hair down. “Brush lightly nightly and apply a light oil to the hair to keep it moisturized and frizz free,” he says. Richards suggests investing in a leave-in conditioner and heat protectant for hydration. Dr. Neera Nathan is a board-certified dermatologist and the chief dermatological advisor of Vegamour. Good Housekeeping participates in various affiliate marketing programs, which means we may get paid commissions on editorially chosen products purchased through our links to retailer sites.

BEST OVERALL HAIR GROWTH GUMMIES

It's a bummer because even though I have a lot of hair, it doesn't look like much — leaving me with pretty sad-looking ponytails and buns. That's why I've prioritized thickening shampoos like this derm-approved one, which has a pretty impressive ingredient list. "It helps to restore strength in the hair shaft by repairing broken bonds that occur because of exposure to chemicals/dyes, heat, and UV rays."

Wellbel Glam Lab Dietary Supplement

Chances are they didn't have one of the best hair masks for growth to save the day. With vitamin B-5 (or pantothenic acid, where the shampoo Pantene gets its name), plus iron, the Aviva Hair Revitalizer “helps prevent thinning hair,” Hart says. Plus, “it has pumpkin seed oil, which is a healthy fat for a healthy scalp.” Another ingredient is iodine, which promotes a healthy thyroid function. One of the signs of a deficient thyroid in women is early hair loss, Hart says. These vitamins for hair growth and thickness are turbo-loaded with beauty superfoods, like biotin, saw palmetto, and iodine, aimed at giving you the hair-tossing power that's usually limited to shampoo infomercials. It's worth noting that "hair supplements have not been independently scientifically studied, and results from companies' own studies are dubious," says Elizabeth Tanzi, MD, a cosmetic dermatologist.

Best Vitamins for Healthy Hair, Skin and Nails of 2024 - CNET

Best Vitamins for Healthy Hair, Skin and Nails of 2024.

Posted: Tue, 09 Jan 2024 08:00:00 GMT [source]

How we chose the best vitamins for hair growth

It doesn't contain any fillers, only pure, herbal ingredients like kelp, licorice root and a whopping 1,000+ times the daily recommended value of biotin. You do have to take these vitamins twice per day, but on the upside, the brand says you'll have no trouble doing so on an empty stomach. Although there is no evidence to suggest that individual vitamins can encourage the hair to grow faster, deficiencies in specific vitamins can lead to hair loss or thin, brittle hair. Consuming enough of each vitamin in the diet may help keep the hair healthy.

Over half reported a boost in hair volume and growth after two months of use, with most saying their hair felt healthier. If you've ever investigated "hair, skin, and nail" supplements, then you saw this suggestion coming. Biotin, aka vitamin B7, is important for maintaining metabolic health, nervous system functions, and strong hair, skin, and nails.

The hair mask in the same line deserves a second look, too; by strengthening parched, fragile hair with biotin, aloe, and honey, it helps stop strands from breaking faster than you can grow them. Finally, if you’re applying hair growth serum in the evening, consider your skin type—since certain ingredients, such as oils, can potentially rub off onto your pillow and be transferred to skin. “For sensitive or acne-prone skin, either frequent pillowcase changes or wearing a hair bonnet after serum application may be helpful,” she says. Meanwhile, “the goal of a serum is to target the hair follicle directly by delivering compounds that may allow for improved or optimal hair growth,” says Dr. Mirmirani. These ingredients are those that aren’t typically found in the diet, such as minoxidil and plant-based compounds. But finding the right formula isn't a matter of simply choosing a product off the shelf and hoping that it works.

They all work in tandem to promote growth and strengthen strands for lusher looking hair. You may be able to promote hair growth by eating a diet rich in nutrients such as zinc and iron. Other ways to improve hair healthiness include only applying shampoo to the scalp, using conditioner after every shampoo and letting your hair air dry after getting it wet, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. I'm a longtime fan of Brigeo's whole haircare line because the products are clean, emphasize naturally derived ingredients, and always contain nutrients with well-studied benefits. This shampoo is no exception, with scalp-stimulating and antioxidant-rich green coffee oil, copper peptides to promote hair growth, and lindera strychnifolia root extract for a healthy, balanced scalp microbiome.

This balancing shampoo leaves your scalp feeling clean without stripping your hair dry — and contains all nine amino acids to help ward off breakage. Hair grows around 0.35 millimeters each day, which amounts to 0.5 inches in a month and 6 inches in a year. While experts agree that even the best shampoo won't necessarily speed up the rate of growth, it can help support healthy growth by nourishing the hair follicle, washing away follicle-clogging impurities, and preventing breakage.

You can take different measures and try different products and treatments to support hair growth. “Your primary care doctor or dermatologist can help you safely determine which hair growth shampoos and supplements would be the most appropriate,” Dr. Khetarpal says. Limit the ingredients you're putting in your body with this biotin supplement. The rapid-release soft gels may not contain a blend of different ingredients, but they do deliver over 33,000 percent of the daily recommended value of biotin to directly target hair, skin, and nails. Need a little help sifting through all the products (and they're teeny-tiny ingredient labels) out there? Doctors say these are the best vitamins for growth, breakage, and overall hair health.

It's precisely this reason that experts say there are hair growth supplements that really do work. "The truth is there is no magic pill that creates long hair, fast," says Zive. This vegan-friendly formula features bamboo extract, biotin, vitamin C and iron to counteract stress, strengthen the immune system and improve hair quality. Though easy to swallow, some testers found the earthy taste unpleasant and others found the packaging kept opening.

This is because research suggests deficiencies in vitamins and minerals such as zinc, iron and vitamin D are linked to hair loss. More research is needed to determine the efficacy for hair growth supplements in individuals without nutritional deficiencies. Hair loss or thinning is multifactorial, meaning there are many different causes, says Valerie Callender, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Glenn Dale, Maryland.

"It reduces oxidative stress which contributes to hair loss, as well as levels of cortisol, the primary stress hormone whose presence causes hair follicles to rest rather than grow." The ingredients that are going to help your hair growth vary from person to person. Generally, supplements are filled with vitamins that most people tend to through food every day. However, if your doctor confirms you’re vitamin-deficient, certain vitamins could potentially (potentially!) help with hair growth, says Dr. Bhanusali.

Brafton UX Design Services: Maximize Your Website's Appeal

Table Of Content

• Look for expert case studies with well-elaborated UX processes and design decisions
• UX User Experience Agency
• Brand Memorability
• Our Process for UI/UX Design Projects
• Quick support team

By identifying and organizing users this way, we can understand and identify the qualities that are most important and integral to our users’ experience. This understanding helps us innovate, design, and integrate the perfect UI/UX design that will be ideal for your user for their jobs to be done. Streamlined delivery, cost effective engagements, designed to match your goals, your timeline and your budget. Testing our work is one of the most important components of  measuring our success which is, ultimately, your success.

Look for expert case studies with well-elaborated UX processes and design decisions

Our user experience design services have fortified businesses across 11 industries. Intellectsoft's design team boasts a distinguished track record of crafting apps and software systems tailored to various sectors. Through comprehensive root cause analyses and our UI design services, we create interactive interfaces and intricate animation designs to ensure an immersive user experience journey. Our in-depth post-analysis guarantees a powerful, seamless cross-platform utility, resulting in a beautifully polished product that marries aesthetics with functionality.

UX User Experience Agency

This understanding has led to more intuitive projects, products, and services that better suit the unique needs of their customers and has drastically improved business outcomes. Until this point, the user experience, flow, and ease-of-use have been the most important features of development. The visual design phase allows us to begin to imagine how the finished product will look and function.

Brand Memorability

Top 13 UX Research Agencies for Crafting User-Centric Experiences - Influencer Marketing Hub

Top 13 UX Research Agencies for Crafting User-Centric Experiences.

Posted: Fri, 23 Feb 2024 08:00:00 GMT [source]

Method’s own brand uses a strong blue color popular in the corporate world. But now with more than 150 employees, they’re headquartered in Victoria, British Columbia. They provide product design, software development, and research services. We, UX studio, are a global UX design agency with over 10 years of experience and became a world-class digital product designing agency in 2013.

Our Process for UI/UX Design Projects

This could include visiting a website, interacting with staff or using a product directly. Communicate regularly with stakeholders to ensure that the design aligns with business goals. This coordination guarantees that the design contributes to the company's success.

Affirma provides professional UX consulting services to drive traffic at all stages of the funnel with targeted, data-driven designs and development. We ensure a motivated and productive team driven by performance reviews, analysis of work quality, professional growth, evaluation of resources/client satisfaction and overall team management. Case studies are examples of the former works that design companies showcase on their websites to prove their expertise, gain trust, and impress potential clients.

Scale your digital presence with tailored e-commerce solutions

CodeMetro provides powerful ABA Therapy Software that allows users to optimize time and operate more efficiently on scheduling, billing, clinical data collection, compliance, and payroll. Ofaris assists with long term staff augmentation, providing qualified developers, quality assurance resources, and scrum masters. The success of their involvement has led to an exclusive staffing arrangement and trust since 2015 with multiple teams. Expand your in-house software development capabilities by choosing the right type of cooperation model that fits your project size, team composition and budget. Choose from software developers, UX/UI designers, data analysts and DevOps engineers. The best UX design companies don’t necessarily have huge offices with awards in the lobby.

Look for companies with established research and UX design processes

This is the phase where UX deliverables come to life through colour, typography, graphic design and imagery. Founded in 2010, Beyond Agency is a globally recognized design and innovation company that operates across London, Lisbon, New York, San Francisco, and Mexico City. They’re dedicated to helping brands enhance their user experiences and solve complex challenges through design thinking and creative solutions. Some of the many services they offer are UI/UX design, development, digital strategy, website design, and even branding. Regardless of your company’s industry or the services or products you offer, Clay will help you through its innovative and very creative ideas and approaches to UX design. The Affirma difference is our ability to pull in a wide range of specialists for any digital marketing project.

What Tasks Will You Perform as a Product Designer?

In these cases, compelling consistency between the two has outstanding results. User experience, or UX, measures how the user or visitor will interact with a digital product (application, website, etc.). These interactions will translate into a significant, holistic experience that can make or break design solutions.

You’ll empathize with users to gain a holistic understanding of their needs and help define the problems that the product should solve. UX researchers also take part in the testing phase and help validate and improve designs. This book introduces a Lean UX framework that encourages a more iterative, outcomes-focused approach to UX design.

When it comes to optimizing your website, let Brafton’s experienced designers handle the heavy lifting. At Brafton, our in-house UX and design team works to ensure that your website, and online presence more generally, is aligned with UX best practices. In turn, this alignment with UX best practices can have a profound impact on all facets of your funnel; driving engagement at the upper-funnel and promoting conversions at the lower-funnel. UX isn’t just the icing on top, it’s about helping you reach your tangible business goals. The rewards you’ll reap are outstanding metrics, word-of-mouth and scalability. Let us help you scale your design and ultimately businesses through meticulous organization of your interface components.

We cooperate with stakeholders or representative users to understand their expectations from the software, get first-hand feedback early, and adjust the UX to real-world user scenarios. We ensure that the software clearly communicates the available actions to users, correctly responds to their input, and provides transparent feedback in case of invalid input. We put a lot of a thought into arranging the interface elements to create easily readable layouts and smooth workflows. Competitors’ analysis, web analytics, user interviews, and initial user testing will enable you to understand the goals, needs and mental models of your users.

Have a detailed assessment of their portfolio and history to see if they match your company and industry. Of course, working with a UX design company does mean there is another vendor to manage. They can also help you with other aspects of your project, such as user research, information architecture, and design. Many world-class tech companies have been founded in this beautiful city and moved to the area. They are filling the Bay Area with valuable talent and giving San Francisco a robust tech industry ecosystem.

Laser Hair Removal for Dark Skin 2023: Safety, Risks, and Tips

Table Of Content

• Laser Treatments to Avoid
• SS: What happens during an initial laser hair removal appointment?
• Will I need multiple treatments?
• Choosing the Right Laser Treatment for Your Skin Tone
• Q: Is laser hair removal a permanent hair reduction treatment?
• The Relationship Between Lasers & Skin Tone

A lot of misconceptions exist about what laser hair removal is and what it can and can’t do. In this video, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Carolyn Jacob separates fact from fiction. If you choose to use a home laser hair removal device, follow the instructions that come with the device to help reduce the risk of injury, especially eye injuries. Thankfully, YAG laser hair removal is here to help solve that dilemma—and it's becoming an increasingly popular solution. We spoke with board-certified dermatologists DiAnne Davis, MD, and Marisa Garshick, MD, to learn more about this dark-skin-friendly method of hair removal. For those who have begun their research, you've probably heard laser hair removal providers or friends who have gone through with it say that it's painless.

Laser Treatments to Avoid

Some hair will grow back, but it’s usually lighter and thinner than before. Shave the area that will be treated two to three days before a treatment. Laser hair removal treatments won’t work on areas where the hair is longer than a grain of rice. After treatment begins, avoid waxing, tweezing and plucking hair in the treated areas.

SS: What happens during an initial laser hair removal appointment?

According to Dr. Charles, no matter the amount of melanin in your skin or how light or dark your complexion is, you can get laser hair removal. "But the people that tend to do the best have coarse, thick hair and darker hair, and that's because the light source in the laser tends to see that hair the best, so it picks up the hair and it really zaps it," he says. According to Dr. Charles, laser hair removal is very safe with minimal side effects, "assuming that the person doing it is using the right laser and understands the mechanics of treating darker skin," he says. But many who once felt a need to shave daily say the minimal upkeep has been well worth it.

Will I need multiple treatments?

Since the treatment only targets the pigment of the dark hair, laser hair removal won’t affect the surrounding skin of the treatment area. This also makes the treatment more effective for patients with dark hair and light skin. Patients with dark skin tone or light hair color may still try this treatment, but it’s best to consult with a doctor first to find out if they have the appropriate laser devices for your skin type or hair type. Aesthetic lasers target water, red hemoglobin, or brown melanin in the skin. Skin types IV to VI have a higher concentration of melanin, which means there is a greater risk of damage if the laser is used incorrectly.

After your session, you may experience minor bumps on your skin due to inflammation of the hair follicles, "but those typically go away within a day or so," says Dr. Charles. He adds that redness is also common, and he tends to give people a mild topical steroid to use for a few days following the session in order to reduce it. Speaking from personal experience, providers typically offer aloe vera gel to soothe the skin immediately after performing treatment on each area.

"To reduce any redness or swelling after treatment, it is recommended to apply a cool compress, aloe vera, and topical corticosteroids morning and evening for five days post-treatment," says Murphy. "This can be aloe vera, vitamin E, vitamin K, or hydrocortisone 1 percent over the counter," he explains. One of the standout features of laser hair removal is its precision. The laser targets hair follicles without affecting the surrounding skin, ensuring that only the unwanted hairs are dealt with. When reviewing at-home laser hair removal tools, we referenced the device manuals to compare specs including expected service lifetime and maximum energy output, as well as features like automatic skin tone sensing. We tried the skin contact sensor on each model to check that it would only flash when in contact with skin.

Q: Is laser hair removal a permanent hair reduction treatment?

With laser hair removal, hair growth is drastically reduced or even eliminated after a few sessions. This means fewer products to buy, fewer salon visits, and more money in your pocket. Consult with a derma clinic or a laser specialist who has experience with diverse skin types to ensure the safest and most effective treatment. Improper laser settings or using the wrong type of laser can increase the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, a condition where the skin becomes darker in treated areas. While laser hair removal can significantly reduce hair growth, it’s considered semi-permanent.

Products & Services

I Got Brazilian Laser Hair Removal On My Pubic Area — Here's My Honest Review - Women's Health

I Got Brazilian Laser Hair Removal On My Pubic Area — Here's My Honest Review.

Posted: Fri, 17 Nov 2023 08:00:00 GMT [source]

Use a razor (like one of the options below) to shave the areas being lasered within 24 hours of your appointment and arrive to your appointment with clean, dry skin. Laser hair removal is expensive, but going in for a treatment might not be high on a list of priorities at the moment. While at-home devices do exist for a fraction of the cost and for better convenience, both Downie and Henry wouldn't recommend them for dark skin. Treating acne scars on dark skin requires special considerations. Improper treatment can result in permanent damage to the skin without improving the scar texture.

The Relationship Between Lasers & Skin Tone

I haven't gotten laser all over my body, but can attest that there are definitely areas that are way more sensitive than others. There are no words to describe what that feels like, and I recommend going to your happy place, taking deep breaths, and squeezing the shit out of the stress balls. For more than 170 years, Town & Country has been the trusted source for influence, taste, elegant living, and the finest things in life.

To explain more about the developments in laser hair removal for dark skin, we turned to Taylor Bagby, an Aesthetic Nurse Specialist at SkinSpirit’s Palo Alto location. But there are no large studies comparing how effective these devices are compared with laser hair removal done at a doctor's office. Common treatment locations include legs, armpits, upper lip, chin and the bikini line. However, it's possible to treat unwanted hair in nearly any area, except the eyelid or surrounding area. Laser hair removal is a medical procedure that uses a concentrated beam of light (laser) to remove unwanted hair. "Avoid waxing, avoid plucking, avoid electrolysis to the area [being treated] for at least three or four weeks" prior to your sessions, adds Dr. Charles.

The damage caused by improper laser treatments is often permanent and ranges from burns and scars to hypo- and hyperpigmentation. Although laser hair removal effectively delays hair growth for long periods, it usually doesn't result in permanent hair removal. Multiple laser hair removal treatments are needed for initial hair removal, and maintenance treatments might be needed as well. Laser hair removal is most effective for people who have light skin and dark hair, but it can be successfully used on all skin types. At Ethos Spa, we want our patients to regain their confidence in their own bodies.

Hair transfers heat to the hair follicles and destroys them, so hair can’t grow. Additional side effects include hyperpigmentation, darkening of the skin, or hypopigmentation, lightening of the skin. For these reasons, it’s been a long-standing myth that laser hair treatment is only possible for those with light skin. Food and Drug Administration considers these home laser hair removal devices to be cosmetic, not medical, which means they don't get the same level of scrutiny as other medical devices. Currently, there haven't been large, long-term studies on how safe and effective the home machines are. You should avoid sun exposure and use sunscreen or moisturizer with SPF to prevent burning, as your skin will be more photosensitive than normal.

Over time, some hair may regrow, but it’s typically finer and less noticeable. According to Dr. Shirazi, IPL lasers "significantly reduce hair growth, but they typically don’t result in permanent hair removal." Your skin becomes sensitive after a laser hair removal treatment, so it’s important to pay extra attention when taking care of it.

Thankfully, technology has made some improvements, and now there are laser hair removal options for dark skin that have less risk of damaging the skin. We spoke with the experts to ask the important questions—what laser is best for dark skin, what you need to do to prepare, and how to know if this treatment is right for you. The Alexandrite laser hair removal treatment should never be performed on Mediterranean or darker skin. Gone are the days of relying on temporary solutions and dealing with the hassles of frequent hair removal.

In my experience, shaving two days prior to your session is the best, especially if you always miss patches of hair. I find that the first shave gets most of the hair and the second shave allows you to go over any spots you initially missed. Worst case scenario, your provider will shave any missed areas before the fun begins.

She didn’t experience burns or pigmentation problems, proving just how far laser hair removal for dark skin has come. Gabby Shacknai is a New York City-based journalist with years of experience researching, writing, and editing beauty and wellness stories that range from aesthetic treatments for millennials to sweat-reduction techniques. Gabby is an authority in all hair removal techniques, but is an expert when it comes to laser hair removal.

8 Best IPL Hair Removal Devices for Long-Lasting Results

Table Of Content

• Light-Based Hair Removal Device
• Laser Treatments to Avoid
• SMOOTHSKIN Pure FIT IPL Laser Permanent Hair Removal
• Post-Treatment Skin Care
• Request Appointment Today
• What to Expect During YAG Laser Hair Removal

I haven't gotten laser all over my body, but can attest that there are definitely areas that are way more sensitive than others. There are no words to describe what that feels like, and I recommend going to your happy place, taking deep breaths, and squeezing the shit out of the stress balls. For more than 170 years, Town & Country has been the trusted source for influence, taste, elegant living, and the finest things in life.

Light-Based Hair Removal Device

This ensures that you’re getting the best results while ensuring that no complications or side effects might occur. It can be overwhelming searching for the best at-home laser hair removal device out there. Other recommendations include laser hair removal experts' favorites and devices with rave online reviews backed by real results. We've got all the goods below, including a deeper dive into the differences among the various at-home devices, their features and who they work best for. Afterwards, laser hair removal is permanent on most areas of the body. Today, more men than ever are seeking laser hair removal as a way to permanently eliminate unwanted hair.

Laser Treatments to Avoid

Use a razor (like one of the options below) to shave the areas being lasered within 24 hours of your appointment and arrive to your appointment with clean, dry skin. Laser hair removal is expensive, but going in for a treatment might not be high on a list of priorities at the moment. While at-home devices do exist for a fraction of the cost and for better convenience, both Downie and Henry wouldn't recommend them for dark skin. Treating acne scars on dark skin requires special considerations. Improper treatment can result in permanent damage to the skin without improving the scar texture.

Best At-Home Laser Hair Removal Devices 2024 - TIME

Best At-Home Laser Hair Removal Devices 2024.

Posted: Thu, 18 Apr 2024 07:00:00 GMT [source]

SMOOTHSKIN Pure FIT IPL Laser Permanent Hair Removal

The newly launched Silk'n 7 boasts neat technology, such as optical and galvanic energy for a more effective treatment, a rotatable head for hard to reach areas, and three additional attachments for precision. Coarse hair is no match for Nood's Flasher 2.0, which eliminates unwanted hair without the razor burn or ingrowns caused by traditional removal methods. Bonus points for its mini size, which makes it easy to treat hard to reach areas such as underarms and the swimsuit line. At Ethos Spa, we always consider our patients’ needs and conditions before recommending the best treatment plan for them.

Post-Treatment Skin Care

She didn’t experience burns or pigmentation problems, proving just how far laser hair removal for dark skin has come. Gabby Shacknai is a New York City-based journalist with years of experience researching, writing, and editing beauty and wellness stories that range from aesthetic treatments for millennials to sweat-reduction techniques. Gabby is an authority in all hair removal techniques, but is an expert when it comes to laser hair removal.

Ethos Spa: The Best Laser Treatment Provider in New Jersey

To explain more about the developments in laser hair removal for dark skin, we turned to Taylor Bagby, an Aesthetic Nurse Specialist at SkinSpirit’s Palo Alto location. But there are no large studies comparing how effective these devices are compared with laser hair removal done at a doctor's office. Common treatment locations include legs, armpits, upper lip, chin and the bikini line. However, it's possible to treat unwanted hair in nearly any area, except the eyelid or surrounding area. Laser hair removal is a medical procedure that uses a concentrated beam of light (laser) to remove unwanted hair. "Avoid waxing, avoid plucking, avoid electrolysis to the area [being treated] for at least three or four weeks" prior to your sessions, adds Dr. Charles.

What to consider when choosing an at-home laser hair removal device

Fortunately, there are now two new technologies that allow us to treat scars with minimal risk of damaging the healthy skin around the scar. However, the risk is minimal with the correct laser, settings, and aftercare. Follow post-treatment instructions, such as avoiding sun exposure and using sunscreen, to reduce the risk further. While there’s a risk of hyperpigmentation, it’s not a guaranteed side effect. Hyperpigmentation can occur if the wrong laser type is used, the settings are too high, or post-treatment care guidelines aren’t followed. Because the at-home gadgets are relatively new, we caught up with Dr. Nazarian—along with Dr. Azadeh Shirazi, a board-certified dermatologist in La Jolla, Calif.—to breakdown everything you need to know about the science behind IPL.

Shaving is time-consuming and often requires patience, while waxing and in-office treatments can be excruciating depending on your pain threshold and add up to a large cost. Fortunately, eliminating unwanted stubble or patches across the body has become easier, more cost-effective and gentle than ever thanks to a slew of at-home laser devices such as IPL. There might be some pain or discomfort during the treatment, but it’s definitely less painful than waxing treatments. Most of our patients described the sensation as something similar to the flick of a rubber band against the skin.

"I found myself really amazed at how effective this was almost instantly," she says. "Within a few weeks, I noticed the dark hair on my skin was growing in far more slowly, and more sparsely, all in about the span of a month." "Hormonal changes like pregnancy can also affect hair growth," she adds. Each pulse of the laser takes a fraction of a second and can treat many hairs at the same time.

The damage caused by improper laser treatments is often permanent and ranges from burns and scars to hypo- and hyperpigmentation. Although laser hair removal effectively delays hair growth for long periods, it usually doesn't result in permanent hair removal. Multiple laser hair removal treatments are needed for initial hair removal, and maintenance treatments might be needed as well. Laser hair removal is most effective for people who have light skin and dark hair, but it can be successfully used on all skin types. At Ethos Spa, we want our patients to regain their confidence in their own bodies.

Over time, some hair may regrow, but it’s typically finer and less noticeable. According to Dr. Shirazi, IPL lasers "significantly reduce hair growth, but they typically don’t result in permanent hair removal." Your skin becomes sensitive after a laser hair removal treatment, so it’s important to pay extra attention when taking care of it.

Some hair will grow back, but it’s usually lighter and thinner than before. Shave the area that will be treated two to three days before a treatment. Laser hair removal treatments won’t work on areas where the hair is longer than a grain of rice. After treatment begins, avoid waxing, tweezing and plucking hair in the treated areas.

In my experience, shaving two days prior to your session is the best, especially if you always miss patches of hair. I find that the first shave gets most of the hair and the second shave allows you to go over any spots you initially missed. Worst case scenario, your provider will shave any missed areas before the fun begins.

According to Dr. Charles, no matter the amount of melanin in your skin or how light or dark your complexion is, you can get laser hair removal. "But the people that tend to do the best have coarse, thick hair and darker hair, and that's because the light source in the laser tends to see that hair the best, so it picks up the hair and it really zaps it," he says. According to Dr. Charles, laser hair removal is very safe with minimal side effects, "assuming that the person doing it is using the right laser and understands the mechanics of treating darker skin," he says. But many who once felt a need to shave daily say the minimal upkeep has been well worth it.