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After her confidence went viral, Lisa Grain talks about living ‘authentically and unapologetically’ after 60

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Courtesy of Lisa Grain

After a street interview with content creator David Carmi of the web site appeared online in February 2024 A leap of trust, people couldn’t help but admire renaissance woman Lisa Grain. Her self-confidence suggestions and the insights she shared about how self-belief has allowed her to remain young (and gorgeous, baby!) had everyone saying they desired to be identical to Grain after they grew up. But she will not be a stranger to the audience, neither is she a stranger to those in her network. After a successful profession in orthodontics and providing patients with self-confidence (through a flawless smile), the 60-year-old uses the confidence she has in herself to embark on a totally different path.

Since childhood, Grain had a passion for hair care and followed family traditions focused on protecting healthy and natural black hair. You see her locks! With the chance to learn more about the industry after retiring from a successful profession as an orthodontist, he’s embarking on a brand new enterprise called French Barrelettes. This revolutionary line of hair care products focuses on revolutionizing the way in which you care to your hair, combining modern technology with the classic elegance of vintage wet hair rollers.

We recently caught up with the medical specialist turned hair care entrepreneur to learn more about her, her hopes for her latest business, and what it takes to be at the best levels of self-confidence.

ESSENCE: At what point in your life did you realize that self-confidence is a key ingredient to a satisfying life?

Lisa Grain: Trust has at all times been the cornerstone of my journey. I’m a retired orthodontist who creates and rebuilds smiles. So I’ve seen first-hand how self-confidence can change lives, whether it’s through the radiant smile of one in every of my patients who had previously had an oral problem, or from someone who has experienced bullying and gained a brand new sense of self-confidence. I believe self-confidence is vital.

I used to be a extremely small, petite and shy girl. But I believe the ability of confidence really hit me during my first week of dental school, when this beautiful, statuesque woman in an exquisite suit and high heels walked through the auditorium. She crossed the hall and stood at the rostrum. You could hear her high heels on the ground. She has already attracted attention within the room. When she took the rostrum, she introduced herself as Dr. Vivian Pinn, chair of the Department of Pathology at Howard University College of Medicine. It was transformative for me. Only then did I actually understand the ability of self-confidence. It’s not only about the way you present yourself to the world. It’s really about accepting your uniqueness, not apologizing for who you might be, and owning it with grace.

After her confidence went viral, Lisa Grain talks about living 'authentically and unapologetically' after 60
Courtesy of Lisa Grain

What do you’re thinking that about your short conversation with Confidence Heist going viral?

It was completely unexpected, but incredibly uplifting. I believe Confidence Heist resonated with many individuals since it touched on the universal truth that self-confidence will not be something we’re born with. It’s something you cultivate through self-love, resilience, and experience. It really does get well with age. The proven fact that it went viral because we had an open, honest conversation about self-esteem, empowerment, and acceptance of ourselves and one another continues to be shocking.

But interestingly, I used to be really comfortable to see that I resonated with younger people and that they valued the experiences of older women. They were curious about my trials and tribulations, successes and failures, and every part in between. They were very kind and gave me grace. There were no negative comments. I would like them to present themselves the grace they gave me.

What advice do you’ve for younger ladies about aging?

I might say for ladies younger and older, embrace it. Accept it without fear. You know, getting older is really a privilege that many individuals are denied. We are lucky as annually passes. It comes with wisdom, strength and a deeper appreciation of the fantastic thing about life. We may have many battle scars of life. No one can escape them, no matter whether or not they are mental or physical scars. I call mine Lisa’s beauty marks.

I even have learned to just accept all of them and recognize them as scars of survival, triumph and victory, and a life truly well lived. So you’ll be able to’t let society’s narrow standards dictate your value or suppress your spirit. You must tell yourself, good job developing your individual beauty marks.

Tell us more about your latest enterprise, French Barrelettes, and what inspired you to enter the hair care industry.

It’s truly a labor of affection. It was type of born out of nostalgia for the traditions of my family growing up. And then the need to innovate. As a toddler, I spent Sunday evenings within the family hairdressing salon, which was my mother’s bedroom. She worked her magic using classic hair rollers. There was no such thing as, , a straightener and a blow dryer. That’s all we had for natural hair. My mother washed, combed and then fixed my hair with rollers.

Memories of those moments inspired me to create a contemporary approach to traditional wet hair rollers. The combination of rollers with cutting-edge technology is really the last word goal for hair health. We natural girls attempt to get away from perms and rest. Honoring tradition and bringing wet sets to contemporary style, French Barrettes are like jewelry to your hair.

After her confidence went viral, Lisa Grain talks about living 'authentically and unapologetically' after 60
Courtesy of Lisa Grain

Did this enterprise and passion project come to you after your profession in orthodontics?

It was boiling inside. I imagine all of us have the privilege of viewing our lives in stages and nothing lasts eternally, good or bad. You get repetitions and a second likelihood. Although orthodontics was a superb space and time in my life, it allowed me to mix medicine and art on this latest chapter. It fuels my creativity and lifelong passion for beauty and style. I treat it as a sworn statement to the ability of discovering latest solutions and the idea that it is rarely too late.

What is a standard myth circulating in society about older women, and how are you using your influence to vary it?

One of the common myths is that aging diminishes a lady’s importance, beauty and style. I see this as a possibility to redefine aging on our own terms and to have a good time the wisdom, resilience and authenticity that comes with it. I believe with my platform I’ll really attempt to challenge these stereotypes and show the energy and vitality of ladies of all ages.

What does this next chapter in your 60s mean for you?

So I believe after 60 it marks a time of freedom – a type of celebration of not holding back. I would like to live authentically and freely and let God use me. That’s how I attempt to approach life. We are all complex people. Sometimes confidence doesn’t equal the doubts we feel. I believe that in my 60s it gives me a likelihood to completely accept who I’m and forge my very own path.


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Health and Wellness

This Fruit-Based Ingredient Provides Anti-Aging Benefits – Essence

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Despite the misfortunes of agingand the issue behind the term, ingredients used to decelerate our skin clock remain at the highest of our beauty game. The latest to hit the buzzwords — from retinol to tretinoin — is a compound called the “youth molecule,” present in a few of our favourite foods. (Hint: It’s also in red wine and chocolate.)

“Resveratrol is a powerful antioxidant found in the skin of grapes, berries, and some nuts,” board-certified dermatologist Dr. Nicole Ruth tells ESSENCE. With the hashtag #resveratrol at 42.8 posts on TikTok and a slew of products available on the market, “it’s gained popularity in the skincare world for its anti-aging properties.”

Below, Ruth discusses the choice to retinol, its advantages, and what to avoid.

What is resveratrol?

Most commonly present in the skin of grapes, berries, and nuts, resveratrol can also be a component of (deliciously) addictive foods like red wine and dark chocolate. However, you would need to eat extremely large amounts (150 mg per day) to reap the advantages, as only a trace amount may be absorbed through the intestines.

While drinking lots of of glasses wine will not be beneficialusing local advantages as an alternative of an old bottle of Cabernet may be more invaluable. “It polyphenol works by neutralizing free radicals, unstable molecules that damage skin cells and speed up aging,” Ruth says, which is what supplements or topical products can do.

What are the advantages of resveratrol?

“By protecting the skin from oxidative stress, resveratrol helps prevent fine lines, wrinkles, and other signs of aging,” she says. “It also has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that can soothe irritated skin and support overall skin health.” Fulfilling all the factors for a top anti-aging product, resveratrol can even help extend the lifespan of skin cells and maintain homeostasis.

How is resveratrol different from other anti-aging ingredients?

With all of the anti-aging products available on the market, it will possibly be hard to feel drained and never give you the chance to make use of them. “What sets resveratrol apart from other anti-aging ingredients like retinol is its gentleness,” she says, making it a very good alternative for sensitive skin and those that are intolerant to retinol. “While retinol stimulates cell turnover and collagen production, which can sometimes cause irritation, dryness, and redness, resveratrol works by protecting the skin from external aggressors like UV rays and pollutants.”

Popularized by Harvard professor David Sinclair“Resveratrol gained popularity after scientific studies showed its potential benefits for longevity and skin health,” she says. “Originally studied for its role in heart health, it was soon recognized for its skin benefits thanks to its strong antioxidant profile.”

A key ingredient in a variety of high-end skincare lines, including Caudalie and Le Demaine, the food-derived compound is touted for its “natural origins” and multifaceted advantages. “A lot of patients ask me about a natural alternative to prescription drugs, and it’s safe to say this could be a natural alternative to a retinoid.”

How does resveratrol work in skincare?

“In skincare, resveratrol is best used in combination with other antioxidants, such as vitamins C and E, which can enhance its protective effects against environmental damage,” says Ruth. “It also works well with moisturisers, such as hyaluronic acid, to provide hydration while protecting the skin.”

For optimal results, she recommends in search of serums or creams with a stable type of resveratrol and applying them after cleansing and toning, but before applying a heavier moisturizer.

What do you have to avoid when using this ingredient?

As with any latest skincare product, knowing easy methods to use it and what to avoid is usually a tremendous line between top shelf and closet. “When introducing resveratrol, it’s important to start slowly to see how your skin reacts, especially if you’re using it in combination with other active ingredients,” she says. “I tell patients to avoid using it the same night with other harsh exfoliants or acids like glycolic acid to avoid irritation.”

“While it’s generally safe for all skin types, those with particularly sensitive skin should monitor for any signs of irritation,” she warns. However, “resveratrol is generally well-tolerated and can be used both morning and night, although frequency will depend on the concentration of the product.”

This article was originally published on : www.essence.com
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Kamala Harris Takes Spotlight with Oprah at Star-Studded Unite For America Campaign Event in Battleground Michigan – Essence

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U.S. Vice President and Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris (left) joins American television producer Oprah Winfrey at a live-streamed “Unite for America” ​​rally in Farmington Hills, Michigan, September 19, 2024. (Photo: SAUL LOEB / AFP) (Photo: SAUL LOEB/AFP via Getty Images)

Oprah Winfrey, the queen of daytime television who has united Americans in front of her screens for many years, once more united the nation at a Unite for America event to learn Kamala Harris’ presidential campaign. “This people power movement behind Kamala Harris has unleashed a unifying force unlike anything we’ve seen in politics in a very long time,” Winfrey said.

The star-studded event, held in the important thing swing state of Michigan, with 400 people in attendance and nearly 300,000 viewers virtually, aimed to construct on the momentum of the primary Win With Black Women charity phone event, which drew an astonishing number of individuals $1.6 million inside hours of the July announcement that Harris would replace President Joe Biden because the Democratic presidential nominee.

Kamala Harris takes center stage with Oprah at star-studded Unite For America campaign event in battleground state Michigan
TOP PHOTO – US Vice President and Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris joins US television producer Oprah Winfrey at a live-streamed “Unite for America” ​​rally in Farmington Hills, Michigan, September 19, 2024. (Photo: SAUL LOEB/AFP) (Photo: SAUL LOEB/AFP via Getty Images)

Her success led to fundraising conversations with dozens of other groups, including Win With Black Men, White Dudes for Harris and Cat Ladies for Kamala, breaking fundraising records along the best way. Unite for America was inspired by a conversation between Oprah and Win With Black Women founder Jotaka Eaddy. Reflecting on the pivotal role black women have played in bringing the country thus far, Eaddy said, “I just think it’s an honor for all of us to be able to usher in this moment, knowing that those who watered this mighty field are now allowing us to eat the fruit.”

While latest Pew poll shows that Black women overwhelmingly support Harris (87%), with support amongst Black men barely weaker. Eighty percent plan to vote for Vice President Harris, while 17% say they are going to vote for Trump. Oprah said she has heard from several Black men who’re voting for Trump due to stimulus checks they received in the course of the pandemic.

Khalil Thompson, founding father of Win With Black Men, explained the matter: “Congress paid for the check…45 people signed it.” While he acknowledged that individuals must make their very own decisions, his selection was clear: “I don’t want someone with 34 convictions. I don’t want someone who will choose hate over choosing the best way to unite us as a country. That’s why I think Vice President Harris is the best person.”

Voters across the country expressed concerns about several issues, including abortion, immigration, the economy and gun violence. Unite for America kept those issues at the forefront, resulting in some very emotional moments in the course of the event.

In the context of abortion rights, a moving story of a 28-12 months-old woman has emerged Amber Nicole Thurman from Georgia, who was a single mother of a six-12 months-old son and wanted an abortion when she discovered she was pregnant with one other child. Because abortion is against the law in Georgia, she traveled to North Carolina, where she was given abortion drugs. After Thurman returned to Georgia, she became very unwell and located that she had not completely expelled the fetus and needed what known as a dilation and curettage (D&C).

Kamala Harris takes center stage with Oprah at star-studded Unite For America campaign event in battleground state Michigan
TOP PHOTO – US Vice President and Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris joins US television producer Oprah Winfrey at a live-streamed “Unite for America” ​​rally in Farmington Hills, Michigan, September 19, 2024. (Photo: SAUL LOEB/AFP) (Photo: SAUL LOEB/AFP via Getty Images)

Doctors waited 20 hours to perform the procedure on her due to state’s strict abortion ban, and he or she died. Thurman’s mother, who only recently learned from Propublica Informing that her death might have been prevented, she said, “Amber was not a statistic, she was loved by her family, a strong family, and we would do anything to make sure my child, our child, got the help that she needed.” In a deeply moving moment that brought many in the audience to tears, Thurman’s mother continued, “You look at a mother who is broken. The worst pain that a mother, a parent, could ever feel, her father, me and her family, you’re looking at that.”

Vice President Harris reiterated her support for abortion rights, calling it “health care,” and said that on the subject of a lady’s right to come to a decision what happens to her body, “you don’t have to abandon your faith or deeply held beliefs to agree that the government shouldn’t tell you what to do.”

In one other moving moment, the audience witnessed the human toll that gun violence has on our nation’s children. Oprah shared that 383,000 children have been exposed to gun violence and introduced one in all those children, Natalie Griffith, and her parents, Doug and Marilda. Natalie, still bandaged from the gunshot wounds she suffered in the Apalachee High School shooting earlier this month, sat next to her mother, Marilda, who shared the pain she felt when she learned her daughter’s school had been the positioning of one other school shooting, while she had no idea whether her daughter was alive or not. “You don’t know what it’s like until you experience it.” In a tearful plea, Marilda called for immediate motion to stop gun violence. “We can’t let this continue,” she said.

Vice President Harris, who was a staunch gun control advocate and co-sponsored a bill banning assault weapons as a California senator, said, “I’ve seen the autopsies. I’ve seen what these weapons do to the human body, and we have to agree that assault weapons in particular… have no place on the streets of civil society. They’re designed to kill a lot of people quickly.” She also reiterated her support for the Second Amendment and made clear that as a gun owner, she’s not attempting to take guns away from everyone.

On the economy, one area where Trump continues to outperform Vice President Harris in the polls, Harris has promised to create an “opportunity economy” where persons are helped to attain their financial goals. For example, she desires to combat price gouging, give first-time homebuyers $25,000 in down payment assistance, give small-business owners a $50,000 tax deduction (up from $5,000 available now) to assist them grow their businesses, and expand the kid tax credit to $6,000 in a baby’s first 12 months.

Immigration is one other area where Trump is leading in the polls — despite his raising of the Haitian rumor that Haitian migrants are stealing and eating pets. Vice President Harris noted that bipartisan border bill that laws she supported would have provided more border patrol agents, asylum officers and immigration judges, and would have stopped the flow of fentanyl across the border, nevertheless it never passed because Donald Trump encouraged Republican lawmakers to not vote for it. Harris said that was because “he would rather run with the problem than solve it,” but that if elected president, she would sign the bill into law.

But ultimately, Harris portrayed the stakes of this election as much larger than her or anybody particular position. It’s about “fundamental freedoms,” she continued. There’s a lot at stake in this election, and ultimately the query before us is, what sort of country do we would like to live in? And the fantastic thing about democracy — so long as we are able to stick with it — the fantastic thing about democracy is that every one in all us has the facility to reply that query.”

This article was originally published on : www.essence.com
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Health and Wellness

Off-White™ and The New York Liberty Combine Fashion and Sport in Groundbreaking Collaboration – Essence

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Women’s sports are having a moment, and the most recent news confirms it: Off-White™ has been named the official curator of fashion and culture for the New York Liberty, a groundbreaking partnership between high fashion and women’s basketball.

As Liberty dominates the WNBA and seeks their first championship, this partnership couldn’t have come at a greater time. Given Off-White’s fame for setting trends and Liberty’s electrifying presence in the world of sports, this partnership is about greater than just basketball—it’s about culture, representation, and the long run of ladies in sports.

The multi-yr agreement, Off-White’s first collaboration with a U.S. sports team, will kick off with the revealing of a custom varsity jacket prior to Liberty’s playoff opener. Designed with the fierce harmony and unique brand aesthetic in mind, the jacket is the right mix of fashion and athleticism. But this partnership extends far beyond the court. Over the following few seasons, we will expect Off-White™ to release exclusive fashion capsules, host community-focused events and work with Liberty players to focus on key cultural moments like Women’s History Month, Black History Month and Pride.

Off-White™ and New York Liberty combine fashion and sport in groundbreaking collaboration
September 19, 2024; New York Liberty receives “Off-White” jackets as a present (Photo: Brandon Todd/New York Liberty)

This partnership is greater than only a win for Liberty and Off-White™—it’s an enormous step forward for girls’s basketball and women’s sports as an entire. The WNBA is having fun with a season of unprecedented growth, with viewership surging, arenas filling up and a roster of players becoming cultural icons in their very own right. From their glamorous pregame looks to their off-the-court activism, the WNBA’s players are redefining what it means to be an athlete. And the New York Liberty are on the forefront of this movement. Known for his or her fierce competition and ability to push boundaries, the Liberty turn heads each on and off the court.

“WNBA players are being embraced as style icons like never before, while also driving culture in ways never before imagined,” said New York Liberty General Manager Keia Clarke. It’s true—today’s WNBA stars are usually not only excelling in the sport, they’re also pushing boundaries in relation to fashion and culture. With this partnership, Off-White will help them proceed to thrive, pushing the boundaries of what athletes can do and the spaces they will occupy.

Off-White™ and New York Liberty combine fashion and sport in groundbreaking collaboration

Off-White™ CEO Cristiano Fagnani expressed his excitement concerning the partnership, saying, “Sports is evolving and women are making history by owning it. We are thrilled to partner with this inspiring team and together create a space that doesn’t exist by pushing boundaries to create the future. For everyone.” His words echo the feelings felt across the sports and fashion communities—a partnership built on shared values ​​of empowerment, innovation, and disruption.

The timing of this partnership is especially significant. Both brands are at pivotal moments—Off-White™ is fresh off its New York Fashion Week debut and Liberty is gunning for its first WNBA title. Their collaboration heralds a brand new era where fashion, sports, and culture seamlessly intertwine, especially for Black female athletes who proceed to interrupt barriers and define their very own space in the world of sports.

Off-White™ and New York Liberty combine fashion and sport in groundbreaking collaboration

As Liberty’s fan base grows and Off-White’s boundary-breaking designs proceed to push the boundaries, the probabilities for this collaboration are countless. It’s not only concerning the clothes, it’s about creating experiences that talk to the facility of representation. For Black women, this collaboration is one other reminder of how far we’ve come in the world of sports—and how far we will go when fashion, culture, and athletics intersect.

This article was originally published on : www.essence.com
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