This is the shifting face of the Crown
Early in 2024, magnesium became a wellness sensation on TikTok, with content creators touting its anxiety-reducing benefits. This essential mineral plays a vital role in bodily functions, and research supports its potential to alleviate stress and promote a sense of calm.
HelloBiome, a company offering at-home microbiome tests for the facial, scalp, body, and vulva microbiomes, was prominently featured at the Business of Beauty Global Forum 2024 in Napa, California. Their AI-powered platform analyzes test results, providing personalized recommendations based on individual microbiome profiles.
Some TikTok users have resorted to unconventional methods like red Christmas lights and even heat lamps designed for chickens. These approaches are not only potentially dangerous but also unlikely to provide any significant benefits. Experts strongly recommend investing in a reputable brand with proven efficacy supported by independent clinical trials.
While many users anecdotally claim to experience increased radiance and a healthy glow, Dr. Prem Tripathi, a California-based facial plastic surgeon, cautions these devices are limited in terms of results. "Think of them as a maintenance tool best used between in-office treatments," he advises.
Raw milk can harbor dangerous bacteria such as listeria, salmonella, kidney-damaging E. coli, and high levels of the A(H5N1) virus. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reports that raw milk consumption has been linked to over 2,645 illnesses and 228 hospitalizations in the US over the past two decades.
Raw, unpasteurized milk gained significant attention in 2024, championed by a diverse group including high-profile figures, influencers, and celebrities. Raw milk proponents often claim it's superior to pasteurized milk, boasting higher levels of vitamins and minerals.
In the US, most milk undergoes pasteurization, a process that heats the milk to kill harmful bacteria. Researchers consider pasteurization "the single most important food safety fire wall in history." Despite this, demand for raw, unpasteurized milk has surged, with over two dozen states now allowing its sale.
TikTok was flooded with discussions about "aura points," a playful system for quantifying one's "aura" (essentially their energy or charisma). As reporter Alaina Demopoulos explained, winning aura points often involved projecting effortless confidence and a carefree attitude, while actions perceived as cringey or insecure were considered aura point deductions.
While cortisol can influence one's appearance, the impact is not as straightforward as some wellness influencers portray. Experts emphasize that high cortisol levels are primarily associated with Cushing's syndrome, a relatively uncommon condition typically resulting from steroid treatments.
Specialists say it's unlikely that everyday stress will significantly elevate cortisol levels to the point of drastically changing facial features. If there are concerns about cortisol levels, experts highlight it's always best to seek advice from a qualified medical professional rather than relying on social media trends.
TikTok was buzzing about "cortisol face" in 2024, with creators claiming that excess cortisol, the body's primary stress hormone, leads to a puffy, less attractive appearance. They suggested that reducing cortisol levels could improve facial aesthetics.
In 2024, celebrities like Kourtney Kardashian and Sofia Richie endorsed supplements formulated with bovine colostrum, often called "liquid gold" online. Made out of the first milk cows produce after giving birth, which is rich in nutrients, supplements have been promoted for their potential to boost immunity, improve gut health, and alleviate bloating.
Experts agree that colostrum is a nutrient-rich substance with potential health benefits, but they highlight the need for further scientific investigation. This includes determining the optimal dosage and frequency of colostrum consumption to realize these benefits effectively.
It's important to note that the supplement market in the US is not strictly regulated. This means there's no consistent quality or potency guarantee between different bovine colostrum products. Experts advise that a balanced, nutrient-rich diet can provide many of the same potential benefits as colostrum supplements.
From "cortisol face" to "aura points," 2024 has been a whirlwind of wellness trends. Social media feeds overflowed with advice on how to optimize our health and happiness, promising everything from glowing skin to inner peace. But are these trends truly beneficial, or are they simply fleeting fads that may even be harmful?
Click through this gallery to explore some of the most talked-about wellness trends of 2024, examining their origins, their claimed benefits, and the potential pitfalls to watch out for.
Initially used primarily in professional settings, at-home red light therapy devices have skyrocketed in popularity, fueled by claims of wrinkle reduction, acne healing, and hair growth stimulation.
The FDA rejected MDMA-assisted therapy for PTSD in 2024. However, as Ross Ellenhorn and Dimitri Mugianis, founders of the psychedelic program Cardea, argued in The Guardian, viewing psychedelics solely as pharmaceuticals may be a limiting perspective. They emphasized that psychedelics "are a means of accessing an experience; they're not a medication."
Research into psychedelics for mental health continued in 2024, exploring how substances like LSD, MDMA, and psilocybin can improve conditions like depression. Scientists are investigating new approaches, such as administering psychedelics without the results of recreational 'trips,' and exploring psilocybin's potential to aid terminally ill patients.
While a lighthearted trend, the concept echoes ancient philosophical concepts, particularly Aristotle's virtue ethics. Philosopher Julian Baggini observed, "It also seems to be a sort of weird, contemporary honor code." Before engaging in actions like cutting someone off in traffic, one might pause to consider the potential "aura point" repercussions.
TikTok creators became more vocal in challenging consumerism culture, embracing a philosophy they call "underconsumption core." Unlike other "cores" that often emphasize acquiring specific aesthetics or products, this trend encourages a mindful approach to consumption, prioritizing reusing, upcycling, and waste reduction.
Critics argue that the trend inadvertently highlights societal inequalities, as many people already live with limited resources. While acknowledging its potential, they emphasize the need for inclusivity and proper contextualization within the movement.
Experts warn that exposing children to a fear of aging and unrealistic beauty standards can negatively impact their mental health. Early exposure to skincare products may also pose significant risks to their delicate skin. "The use of these products can lead to skin irritation and even trigger conditions like periorificial dermatitis,” emphasizes dermatologist Dr. Shreya Andric.
The movement emerged amidst a broader phenomenon sometimes referred to as an "intimacy recession." This decline has been attributed to various factors, including dating app fatigue. However, some view it as a broader reevaluation of gender-based politics and dynamics.
Often referred to online as "boy sober," this trend experienced a surge in popularity particularly among heterosexual women. In February 2024, The New York Times declared celibacy "this year's hottest mental health craze."
Fertility clinics across the US and the UK are witnessing a surge in egg freezing procedures. In the US, this increase is significantly driven by the growing number of employers offering fertility treatment benefits, which can cover the substantial costs associated with egg freezing.
While egg freezing offers a sense of freedom and allows individuals to delay family planning, experts warn it does not guarantee future fertility, as success rates vary significantly. For women over 35, the chance of pregnancy can range from 50% with 20 retrieved eggs, to a mere 6% with only five eggs. Furthermore, finding suitable sperm donors presents its own set of challenges.
Source: (The Guardian)
Bovine colostrum and cortisol face: understanding 2024's wellness trends
Are these trends helping or hindering our health?
LIFESTYLE Beauty
From "cortisol face" to "aura points," 2024 has been a whirlwind of wellness trends. Social media feeds overflowed with advice on how to optimize our health and happiness, promising everything from glowing skin to inner peace. But are these trends truly beneficial, or are they simply fleeting fads that may even be harmful?
Click through this gallery to explore some of the most talked-about wellness trends of 2024, examining their origins, their claimed benefits, and the potential pitfalls to watch out for.