💌 bye hyperpigmentation, nontoxic makeup brands, guide to becoming alive

TODAY IS THURSDAY, MAY 22

WHAT TO EXPECT

• stories: tiktoks new feature, infrared sauna blankets, say bye to hyperpigmentation with this
• this week’s read: the guide to becoming alive
• recent articles: 4 best clean and nontoxic makeup brands of 2025
• quote: on authenticity
• add to cart
• recipes to try: ham, pear, endive, and focaccia sandwich
• ICYMI

LIFESTYLE: DOCTORS ARE HERE FOR TIKTOK’S NEW WIND DOWN FEATURE
TikTok recently introduced a new wind down feature as they aim to combat late-night scrolling as part of their efforts towards bettering users’ mental health, especially among teens. The feature is triggered post 10 p.m. (for users under 18) and interrupts the app with calming music + guided meditation exercises to encourage falling sleep. Although teens can technically bypass it, early testing showed that 98% chose to keep the feature on. Adults can also opt in through settings! Experts constantly explain how late-night screen time is linked to poor sleep and mental health issues, so this move is part of TikTok’s broader commitment to digital wellbeing.

WELLNESS: THE BEST INFRARED SAUNA BLANKETS
Infrared sauna blankets are a modern twist on a centuries-old wellness tradition, offering the detoxifying, muscle-soothing benefits of a traditional sauna in a compact, at-home format. Instead of heating the air around you, these blankets use infrared light to warm your body directly, promoting sweat, relaxation, and recovery. Dermatologists to physical therapists—praise their effectiveness, especially models like the HigherDOSE, which features layered tech for even heat and detox support, and the CurrentBody and LifePro options, which offer customizable settings and thoughtful extras like sweat towels and arm holes for multitasking. Whether you’re chasing post-workout relief or a daily dose of wellness, these portable saunas make it surprisingly easy to break a sweat—without ever leaving your couch.

BEAUTY: HYPERPIGMENTATION HATES TO SEE THIS INGREDIENT COMING
Tranexamic acid (TXA) was originally used in medicine for its blood-clotting properties but quickly found its way into skincare after it was reported that patients had a side effect of skin-lightening. TXA treats hyperpigmentation, melasma, and redness without bleaching the skin. It works by inhibiting pigment-producing enzymes and reducing inflammation. It’s recommended to ease into it with using 2x a week and eventually moving up to every other day, because consistent use immediately can cause irritation + peeling. As per expert, visible results typically take 8 to 16 weeks (yes, be patient with it), and you absolutely need to use SPF!

Written from a goat shed and born out of a craving for something deeper, A Guide to Becoming Alive is Richard Christiansen’s heartfelt manifesto for living not just a good life—but a great one. Part memoir, part conversation series, this 600-page book blends wisdom from the garden with insights from cultural icons like Jane Goodall, Alice Waters, Jane Fonda, and Martha Stewart. Together, they unpack the messy, joyful, and often chaotic path to meaning, touching on everything from love and purpose to politics, plants, and pleasure. This is for anyone ready to trade mediocrity for aliveness. (PS. would also make a great Father’s Day Gift)

ON AUTHENTICITY: You may not realize it, but you inspire others by simply being you. - ANONYMOUS

In the world of social media, we often compare ourselves to others and as a result, try to change. However, there is nothing more unique and special than being yourself — and that starts with knowing yourself first.

1. Free People — x free-est Darcy Mini Dress

2. SamiJEWELS — Lariat Necklace

3. Freja NYC — Mini Shoulder Bag

4. Mango — Leather Sandals with Intertwined Strap

(IN CASE YOU MISSED IT)