Are you wasting money on skincare? Unveiling what your products really do

Applying a nightly skincare regimen has become an exercise in self-care for many of us. In fact, skincare tends to take precedence over makeup due to the fact that cleansing, protecting, and moisturizing the skin are seen as key to aging gracefully. But have you ever stopped and wondered how much of your skincare is actually absorbed? And, of what is, can some of it potentially be harmful? Click on to learn how much difference your favorite products are actually making to your skin's health and radiance.

What is co-parenting, and how to make it work?

Sometimes, life doesn't always work out as planned. If you and your partner have recently separated or gotten divorced, it can be difficult to maintain a civil relationship while interacting with them regularly. However, minimizing conflict with your ex is vital if children are involved, ensuring they grow up safely and securely, with the love and support of each parent. Curious to learn all there is to know about co-parenting? Click through this gallery to discover tips, tricks, and tools for maintaining a positive and effective co-parenting relationship.

What exactly was the role of a court jester?

The court jester was a medieval man of mirth. A person hired for their verbal witticism and storytelling ability, a jester was also expected to sing and play music. Seen as figures of fun, some of these individuals were far more intelligent than they let on, and became powerful and respected members of royal households across Europe. But how did the role of the court jester evolve, and who are the most famous practitioners of this ancient art of merrymaking? Click though and have the last laugh finding out!

What Plato can teach us about living a good life

Few philosophers have had the impact of Plato. Born in ancient Greece, this student of Socrates grew to be one of the foundational figures of Western philosophical thought. However, unlike many of the other Western thinkers, he focused on metaphysical, rather than material, form. Plato's Academy was the precursor of the modern-day university, and his teachings, sometimes referred to as "Platonic idealism" live on to this day. They provide universal principles that can act as guidelines for how to live a good life. Curious? Click on to discover some of Plato's classic, timeless wisdom about how to live well.

Check out these extravagant celebrity honeymoons

Your wedding day is one of the most important days of your life, so by extension your honeymoon should be the most important vacation of your life! Well, many celebrities tend to use all of the resources at their disposal to create a dream trip for their honeymoon (or honeymoons). Some go for private resorts on tropical islands, while others explore the wilds of Africa. The common themes are luxury, privacy, and exclusivity. Click through the following gallery to see where some of the most privileged couples in the world chose to go on their honeymoons.

Talking to yourself is healthy (most of the time)

In certain circumstances, being caught talking to yourself is embarrassing. It makes you look like you’ve lost your mind! Generally, it's understood that we speak to communicate, and doing so without it being directed at someone or not being heard by anyone defeats the purpose. However, this isn't true. Speaking serves other functions too. How many times have we been looking for our keys and have asked ourselves, “where are my keys?” Saying it out loud helps us find them because it reminds us of what we’re looking for, and we don’t lose focus. And that's just one example. To explore why we speak to ourselves, which is commonly referred to as "self-talk," click through this gallery.

Look: Aditi Rao Hydari, Siddharth get married

Star couple shares beautiful pictures from their nuptials

Must-see biopics about iconic women in crisis

Women face a multitude of challenges, from personal struggles to systemic issues. Even famous figures can’t escape moments of crisis; and behind the fame and power, we are left to wonder how such iconic figures have navigated their own personal struggles. That's where cinema steps in, giving us a peek into their most challenging moments. ‘Maria,’ a new biopic about legendary opera singer Maria Callas, joins the list of movies depicting iconic women going through hard times. Marking Angelina Jolie’s triumphant return to the big screen after a three-year hiatus, the film received an eight-minute standing ovation at the 81st Venice International Film Festival, and it’s already generating Oscar buzz. In response to questions about the “diva” label that was cast upon Callas and, sometimes, herself, Jolie had a poignant response. “It is often other people’s perceptions of a woman that defines who she is.” What were Lady Di's innermost thoughts during her traumatic public divorce? How did Marilyn Monroe cope with being seen as nothing more than a pretty face? What sacrifices did Whitney Houston make to achieve her stardom? From Hollywood stars to writers, from queens to princesses, click on to get inspired by stories of iconic women who have overcome adversities and made history.

Understanding hyper-independence, and how to overcome it

As humans, we have evolved through cooperation and working together to ensure our survival. But in our modern age, independence is highly valued. While it's part of being an adult to take charge of our own life and steer the ship, hyper-independence occurs when someone takes this to an extreme and denies themselves any support from the people around them. Although it's not an official diagnosis, hyper-independence can be short-lived, or it can be an unconscious life strategy. Curious? Click on to learn more about hyper-independence and tips for how to overcome it.

These are the 30 coolest streets in the world right now

What makes a street "cool?" Is it the number of restaurants, bars, cafés, and independent shops? Or is it just a general vibe, a friendly warmth that's hard to pin down? Apparently, it's a combination. Every year, Time Out ranks the best cities in the world. For 2024, it ranked the world's 30 coolest streets, but you might be surprised: they're unexpected spots! To produce the lineup, the global listings guide's network of editors and writers chipped in to make the case for their favorite streets in their respective cities. Click on to find out if you've ever strolled in one of them.

Your personal style, according to your star sign

We refer to the cosmos for many things already—our power color, the best perfume, and how to sleep better. Why not style? Personal style is unique to everyone, and you can use your star sign to learn which fashion choices will help you to feel empowered. Discovering your personal style might take a while, and it can be complicated. By consulting the stars, it becomes a little easier to refine your own preferred aesthetic. Curious? Click on to discover your personal style, according to your star sign.

Emmy Awards 2024: What does the red handprint on D’Pharaoh Woon-A-Tai's face mean?

On a night renowned for its fashion statements, Canadian actor D’Pharaoh Woon-A-Tai highlighted a pressing humanitarian issue without saying a word. The Reservation Dogs star arrived at the 2024 Emmy Awards with a red handprint across his mouth in what is being interpreted as a silent statement of solidarity with a movement dedicated to native wome...

Romantic island destination ideas for couples in love

If you could wave a magic wand and end up on a romantic island right here, right now, where would you choose? Tough choice, eh? But to help make up your mind, here's a virtual vacation tour of some of the most idyllic and welcoming island destinations on the planet. Click through this gallery and forget the pandemic. Welcome to paradise!

Everything you need to know about bees

Bees play a key role in maintaining both biodiversity and our fragile environmental balance. They don’t just make honey! In honour of World Bee Day on May 20, here are 20 amazing facts about these fascinating insects.

Historical misconceptions you thought were true

History has a way of sticking around, teaching us how far we've come and illustrating how human nature has both changed and managed to stay the same all at once. However, sometimes embellishments and downright inaccurate events get passed down along with history, masked as factual episodes. From who built the Egyptian pyramids to what ninjas actually wore, history is filled with misconceptions and inaccurate assumptions. Have you mistaken any myths for historical facts? Browse the gallery and find out.

Golden romance: your guide to dating in retirement

Love is in the air—even as a retiree! Have you thought before that perhaps your dating days are long gone, or that you might be too old to date again? Neither is necessarily true though! Whether you’ve been married or partnered before or not, dating even when you’re older can be an exciting adventure. It's a new chance to find someone who you really connect with and can share time together with. With this in mind, this guide will take you through everything from the do’s and don'ts of dating as a senior to questions to ask on a potential date, and more! Curious as to how you can reignite your love life starting today? Click through for more information.

Discover the British Royals' most lavish treasures and their secrets

From the Crown Jewels to priceless artworks and a multimillion-pound stamp collection, the British Royal Family owns a massive trove of treasures worth billions.

The world's most incredible desert homes are simply stunning

Enjoying rugged remote landscapes, abundant sunshine and every luxury you could wish for, these incredible desert homes offer the best of remote living

Signs you're settling in your relationship

Every relationship has its ups and downs. No one is perfect, and not every moment with your partner is going to be amazing. But how do you know if you're settling for less? Since all relationships have their challenges, it's important to be able to recognize the different signs that you're settling for less than you deserve. Want to know what the relationship settling signs are? Then click on and check out the following gallery.

Things to do in the UAE this week: Saudi National Day fireworks and free fertility tests

As temperatures start to drop, the UAE events calendar offers a mix of outdoor and indoor activities. A clean-up is being held at Saadiyat Beach, for example, while for those who want to stay indoors, Ski Dubai is hosting its popular Ice Warrior Challenge on Sunday. Here, The National rounds up seven things to do around the Emirates, from September...

Dubai connection to Sabyasachi necklace Laura Dern wore to 2024 Emmy Awards explained

American actress Laura Dern stepped out at the Emmy Awards ceremony in a fitted button front black dress, accessorised with an elaborate gold necklace by Indian designer Sabyasachi. The necklace, part of the high jewellery studio's Bengal Byzantine Broadway collection, has a recent connection to the UAE. Before making its way to the Hollywood red c...

Why coral reefs are disappearing

Coral barrier reefs are notoriously beautiful due to their vibrant colors and majestic structures teeming with life. But while these important underwater havens provide a paradise for snorkelers and fishermen, they are actually disappearing rapidly. Indeed, scientists have estimated that 90% of coral reefs around the world are at risk of being completely wiped out by 2050. Intrigued? Click through the following gallery to see why coral reefs are dying, and what can be done to help.

Keep America weird: unusual facts about each state

The United States is a big, vast place where sometimes (a lot of times) weird things happen. Jokes about Florida's strangeness abound, as evidenced by the amount of Twitter accounts dedicated to poking fun at the absurd things that take place in the Sunshine State. But Florida is far from being alone. Check out these strange facts about American states that will increase your random knowledge and your chances of winning trivia games.

Rules you didn't know first ladies have to follow

The First Lady of the United States may not be a politician, but she still has lots to do. Throughout history, the role of the first lady has evolved with each new administration. Modern-day women in this position are responsible for high-profile events, like state dinners and the White House holiday celebrations. And while some of these expectations are straightforward, other rules are more surprising. Also, controversially, first ladies aren't paid for their work in the White House, even though it's a full-time job. Click on to learn more about the rules you didn't know First Ladies have to follow.

Incredible bear facts that will amaze you

Over the centuries, bears have cemented themselves in the hearts and cultures of humankind for a multitude of reasons. From Winnie the Pooh to Smokey Bear, bears have fascinated us in all sorts of ways, and we have worked hard to better understand them, to varying degrees of success. Indeed, bears are indispensable members of ecosystems around the world. Through their foraging, they help spread the seeds of all sorts of trees, plants, and fruits, help control the population of other species in their environments, and also feast on all those pesky bugs that annoy us humans. There is much, much more to these animals than meets the eye. Curious? Read on to learn all about the world's beautiful species of bears.

30 space terms for understanding the universe better

Filled with unimaginably large and complex structures, often undergoing dramatic changes, outer space is a mysterious and fascinating place. Modern astronomy and physics, which stretch back centuries, can teach us a lot about the laws of physics at the biggest scale and the history of space. However, jargon can often get in the way of understanding the mesmerizing physics. So click on for some key astronomy and astrophysics terms to understand the universe better.

The most important inventions since 1990

Maybe once upon a time necessity was the mother of invention, but, in the modern age, the innovations that have driven us forward concern things that would have seemed incomprehensible before their advent. It seems today that the cutting edge of technology, medicine, and entertainment are growing at speeds far faster than the average imagination. The past 30 or so years have seen the inventions of tools, services, and technologies that would have seemed like the stuff of witchcraft and science fiction even just a century ago. Intrigued? Let's take a look at some of the most important and life-changing inventions of the past three decades. Click on!

Fur-tastic hacks: time-saving tricks for pet parents

Having a pet is one of life's great joys, but it also comes with a lot of responsibilities and hard work. Whether you're a seasoned pet owner or new to the game, we could all use a few tips to make our days easier. From grooming to feeding, this gallery covers it all, ensuring your pets are happy while saving you precious time. Click through to learn how you can save big on your furry friends!

30 sentences that only those who lived through the '80s or '90s will understand

Nostalgia for the '80s and '90s is so rampant that even people who weren't alive during these decades like to celebrate them as if they were! And while they can look up old music clips online and use filters to make their photos look like they were taken over 30 years ago, it's different for those of us who actually witnessed these decades firsthand. Not only are we sentimental, the '80s and '90s are actually in our DNA, and there are simply sentences only those of us who lived through these times can understand. Curious? Check out this gallery for some true '80s and '90s nostalgia!

September Horoscope: see what's in store for you this month!

The legendary life and work of Lauren Bacall

Possessed of a beguiling, sultry presence and a distinctive, husky voice, Lauren Bacall became as well known for her portrayals of provocative and alluring women as for her marriage to Humphrey Bogart. As well as her triumphs on screen, Bacall was an accomplished stage actress. She also made many television appearances. The recipient of an Academy Honorary Award, Golden Globe, and two Tony Awards, plus numerous other accolades including the Cecil B. DeMille Award and the Kennedy Center Honors, the late actress remains a legendary figure in motion picture history. For a walk down memory lane, click through for an appreciation of the life and work of Lauren Bacall.

All you need to know about the curly girl hair method

If you have wavy or curly hair, from time to time you may notice your tresses look a little frizzy or your curls aren't as defined. This is where the curly girl method steps in. While variations of the routine have existed for decades, hairstylist Lorraine Massey brought the curly girl method to wider audiences; it was particularly popular throughout the 2010s. When adopting the approach, users benefit from healthier hair, with more defined waves or curls. But what is the curly girl method, really? This gallery contains all you need to know to get started. Click on to discover more.

Man vs. woman: who makes a better leader?

Men and women each have their unique strengths and weaknesses. While it's difficult to generalize by gender, some traits do seem to be more highly correlated with whether someone is a man or a woman. In the context of leadership, these differences are very apparent. What makes a great leader, anyway? And is there really a "better" option between having a male or female boss? If you're curious to find the answers, click on the gallery and discover more about this controversial topic.

30 stylish coupés from the 1970s

From thyme to timing: essential tips to cultivate your own herb garden

In every great cook’s home lies the potential for a beautiful, aromatic kitchen garden filled with culinary herbs fresh for the picking. Herbs breathe new life into old recipes and are easier to plant, grow, and use then you might even realize! What's more, kitchen herbs are sure to add diversity and flavor to any dish. While you can buy most or all herbs prepackaged from a store, they often wilt or go bad very quickly and can be quite expensive. To save time and money, as well as allowing yourself to have the freshest and longest-lasting options, consider growing your own kitchen herbs. Click through to learn how.

Foods you didn't realize contain dairy

We have previously gone over foods we thought were vegetarian but really aren't, and now it's time to focus on those that many of us never realized contain dairy. In addition to being lactose intolerant, some people are actually allergic to dairy in general, which is a different condition. Unlike lactose intolerance, where there might be some gastrointestinal discomfort, those allergic to dairy can indeed have an adverse reaction, which can range from mild to pretty serious. With this in mind, it's important to know exactly which food items contain dairy. Click through the following gallery and get to know the products you may not have realized aren't dairy-free.

The surprisingly disgusting history of royal palaces

When we think of the royal dynasties in European history, we think of kings and queens with absolute power ruling over vast empires, living in unchecked luxury. Many of the palaces they built are still some of the most impressive architectural wonders in existence. From the French Palace of Versailles to London’s Kensington Palace, tourists walk the halls and marvel at the beauty and grandeur of these royal homes. However, these restored palaces leave out a few key details. When they were first built and actually hosted royal courts, they were worse than pigsties! Visitors of the Louvre Palace today are spared the harsh realities of centuries gone by: ungodly smells, rat infestations, and piles of human feces littering the floor. Do we have your attention? Click through the following gallery to find out what it was really like to live in a royal palace of the past.

The strange rules presidential children have to follow

One can imagine that being the child of the President of the United States isn't exactly an easy role. Yet, the children in the first families have no other option. Having a parent who's the leader of one of the most powerful countries in the world surely comes with its benefits, but being in the spotlight also comes with a lot of pressure and public scrutiny. Just think about all the comments that have been made about Sasha and Malia Obama, Barron Trump and Chelsea Clinton. Click on for some of the rules the president's children are expected to follow.

Famed soups from around the world

If there's one type of dish that's eaten in practically every country in the world, it's certainly soup. An ancient dish, each region incorporates their own flavors and ingredients. And despite the immense variety of recipes around the world, one thing is inherent in all soups: they're all about providing comfort and hospitality! If you're a soup fan, check out this gallery for famous soups from around the world.

Extinct human species: how different were they from us?

Well done Homo sapiens! Yes, that's us: the modern human. We avoided extinction and thrived. But this was not the case for any other archaic human species. And if you think that we simply evolved in a direct line, you couldn't be more wrong. In fact, other species of humans cohabited on our planet at the same time. And yes, we even bred with some of them. However, in the end, we were the only ones who survived. But how different were these early human species from us, really? Click through the gallery to find out.

Common cultural faux pas and how to avoid them when you're abroad

Navigating cultural differences can be a delicate dance, where one misstep can lead to embarrassment or offense. From improper table manners to inappropriate gestures, it's easy to commit many a social crime. But you can avoid this! Check out this informative gallery before you next travel, to find out the most common cultural faux pas and a few tips on how to avoid making them.

What happens when your partner speaks a different language than yours?

It has been said that love knows no bounds, and while many relationships around the world are a testament to this statement, it is certainly no easy feat to date someone who doesn’t share the same native language as you do. Multilingual partners can find themselves arguing and fighting for seemingly stupid reasons, but the truth is that language differences can make tensions flare up if we don’t know how to address them. Curious? Click through the following gallery to see how relationships can be affected by languages, and what can be done to reduce conflict.

The biggest hit songs from the ‘60s

The Swinging Sixties happened decades ago, but their revolutionary impact on music and culture in general still remains to this day. Whether you dig psychedelic rock, soul, or folk, this special decade provided plenty of thrilling jams we all still love. And thanks to all the exploration and experimentation, it laid the path for other musicians and artists for years to come. Want to head back into the groovy '60s? Then check out this gallery.

They wrote the most memorable breakup letters in history

Forget the modern-day cowardice of ghosting: breakups are best handled with verve and courage! While countless breakups are forgotten, many others have been immortalized in writing. Sure, no one loves ending a relationship, but these letters show that gentle phrases and piercing metaphors can make the process easier (or harder) on the ex-lover-to-be. From Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor, to Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera, click on for some of the most memorable breakup letters in history.

28 green flags in a relationship

When it comes to relationships, we often focus on the issues or red flags. And while no companionship is perfect, there are some characteristics that most healthy relationships have in common. In general, everyone has some idea of what a healthy relationship looks like. But most people have a hard time recognizing the green flags in their own relationships, or where they may need to improve. In this gallery, we'll give you a brief rundown of the signs that you're in a healthy relationship. Click on to find out!

Ergophobia: When you truly fear working

You've likely heard of the "Sunday scaries" or the feeling of dread that overcomes many of us on Sundays before returning to work on Monday morning. But what if that fear was genuinely debilitating? Well, for some, it is. Ergophobia, or the excessive fear of work, is an actual phobia that affects some people. It can cause severe anxiety and lead to long periods of unemployment, among other issues. In this gallery, you'll find potential causes and tips for addressing this issue if you or a loved one is suffering. Curious to know if you have ergophobia? Click through now to explore further.

What's behind most coffee shops looking the same?

The more things change, the more they stay the same it would seem. In an increasingly globalized world, a common style or aesthetic emerged in the 2010s that took the coffee shop world by storm. Perhaps it was an inevitable outcome of a combination of factors: the emerging world of social media presence and marketing, the millennial penchant for coffee, and a pared-back look that appeared somber in the face of the Great Recession. Whatever the reason, we are left with a legacy of coffee shops worldwide that look more or less the same. How did it happen? Click on the following gallery to find out.

China’s wildest, weirdest architectural masterpieces

Step inside China's strangest buildings. Explore boundary-breaking architecture from the People's Republic of China from coin-shaped skyscrapers to Shanghai's pearl-topped tower.

Meet the animals that can change their sex

Reproduction is a top priority for most animals, and many have evolved fascinating strategies to increase their chances of success. Some animals have horns to fight off competition, while others use eye-catching ornamentation to attract a partner. However, some members of the animal kingdom have evolved a more fascinating approach: the ability to change their sex. There are a number of reasons why this might be advantageous, and it depends a lot on a particular species' physical and social environment. If you'd like to meet the animals that change sex, simply click through this gallery now.

Weekly Love Horoscope for September 16-22, 2024

Weekly Love Horoscope for September 16-22, 2024. Start with an act of consideration and concern. Find out astrological predictions for zodiac signs.Read: Your Daily Chinese HoroscopeAries Love HoroscopeThis week, you may be taken aback by someone from your past that you did not expect to meet. This