The Government Wants to Ban This Common Beauty Ingredient + You’ll Love Why

At one point in your life, you’ve probably washed your face with a cleanser that contains those little microbeads that promise to leave skin glowy and exfoliated. But what you probably didn’t know is that these beads can be ultra-harmful to the environment. That’s why the government is taking action; the House of Representatives recently passed the Microbeads-Free Waters Act to prevent the harming of wildlife.

The Wildlife Conservation Society issued a release after the announcement, detailing the effects of those tiny, seemingly harmless beads that apparently cause big problems. As John Calvelli, WCS executive vice president of public affairs, explains: “In New York State alone, 19 tons of microbeads are washed down the drain every year. They collect pollutants such as DDT and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), and then become part of the food chain when fish mistake them for food.”

Nineteen tons of microbeads in New York state alone is definitely cause for concern. Not only can these beads harm animals, but they can also have negative effects on humans because the beads are eaten by wildlife and move through the food chain. The Guardian reports that the Microbead-Free Waters Act would begin to phase out the plastic found in soap, toothpaste and body washes beginning July 1, 2017. The bill had been backed by a bipartisan committee and will move to the Senate for approval.

Here’s hoping these little beads are history!

What do you think about the microbeads ban? Let us know on Twitter @BritandCo.

(Photo via iStock)

Amazon’s famedBig Deal Days is set to return on October 8-9, but you don’t have to wait until then to get your shop on! There are tons ofearly Prime Day deals to scoop up right now, from beauty and fashion to home goods and appliances that’ll literally save you hundreds. This Prime member-exclusive savings event also comes at the perfect time ahead of the holiday season, so you have the chance to check everyone off your list with plenty of time to spare before December’s here.

Since we’re all about saving, here are the absolute best early Prime Big Deal Days deals to start shopping now!

Early Beauty Deals

Amazon

SheaMoisture Smoothie Curl Enhancing Cream

$10, was $12, with option to save 10% more with Subscribe + Save

This luscious curl cream works for a wide range of curly hair types. From enhancing subtle waves to making sure tight coils stay in place, it sure is effective for such a low price. In addition to helping curls hold, this product reduces frizz and creates "brilliant shine."

Amazon

COSRX Snail Mucin 96% Power Repairing Essence

$16, was $25

This multi-hyphenate serum (4.6 out of 5-stars rating, Amazon best-seller, and viral fave) is beloved for a reason. It's super gentle on the skin, all while delivering unparalleled hydration and moisture when you really need it. Even if you're not looking for a skincare restock, someone on your holiday shopping list will love this as a stocking stuffer!

Amazon

Divi Hair Scalp Serum

$37, was $48

We're all about hair care, and this scalp serum for thinning hair has our approval. The formula targets scalp health specifically, helping to "strengthen hair, fight frizz, and prevent breakage." Your journey to healthier-looking hair (or as one Amazon shopper put it, "thicker and longer" strands) starts with this Prime Day deal!

Amazon

Hempz Smoothing Herbal Koa & Sweet Almond Body Moisturizer

$17, was $28

Hempz makes some of our all-time favorite body lotionssince they're super hydrating. Give your bod the TLC it's been craving as temperatures cool down with this sweet-smelling formula made with thick, nourishing shea butter! Shoppers love it for its ability to maintain "supple and irresistibly soft" skin.

Amazon

Wavytalk Ionic Hair Dryer

$32, was $55 with option to use 5% off coupon

This salon-quality hair dryer is small, but mighty. It's powered by a 1875-watt motor, 3 temperature settings, and 2 airflow speeds to help you achieve the exact style you're looking for. It's earned 4.5 out of 5 stars from Amazon shoppers for being a great value, efficient at drying, and quiet during operation.

Amazon

CeraVe Ultra-Light Moisturizing Gel

$15, was $20

This derm-recommended water-based moisturizer is packed with 3 essential ceramides, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid for "immediate and long-lasting hydration." It's the perfect product to deliver the moisture your skin needs without feeling heavy or sticky on the face.

Amazon

Oral-B iO Deep Clean + Whiten Rechargeable Electric Toothbrush

$100, was $150

Prime Day is the perfect time to re-up your oral care game since a lot of electric toothbrushes tend to be on deals. This model's "advanced" tech allows you to remove 100% more plaque and (even 2.5 times more in between your teeth) for a very fresh feel. It can sense if you're brushing too lightly or too hard, plus it's equipped with a handy 2-minute timer for the ideal brushing experience. The coordinating case makes traveling with your expert-approved toothbrush super easy!

Amazon

Shark HD430 FlexStyle Air Styling & Drying System

$250, was $300

This beloved hair tool from Shark is shoppable on sale ahead of Prime Day, saving you $50! It dries and styles your hair simultaneously using low heat, but powerful airflow. This minimizes heat damage to your luscious locks, which is always welcome! You can easily customize your desired hairstyle using 4 heat and 3 airflow settings, plus 5 interchangeable attachments.

Early Fashion Deals

Amazon

Anrabess Open Front Knit Lightweight Cardigan

$47, was $70

If your fall and winter 'fits are craving something a bit more (and some extra warmth), this on-sale longline cardigan is the perfect light layer to throw on. It comes in 24 stunning colors to match your personal style. The open collar and front pockets make it look super sophisticated – even though it's currently 51% off. 👀

Amazon

Dream Pairs Wide Calf Knee High Boots

$42, was $60

Riding boots are all the rage this time of year. Gift yourself (or another fashionista in the family) this adorable knee-high pair to be totally on-trend! The moto-inspired buckles and zipper accent give 'em some much-needed edge, which you can style up or down depending on your mood. Whether you pair them with a mini skirt or jeans, you'll enjoy the cozy insoles and durable chunky heel.

Amazon

Anrabess Striped Oversized Sweatshirt

$18, was $31

It's giving Free People, but for way less. This colorful striped sweatshirt is sure to make a statement wherever you go, and you have a ton of color options to shop, including this vibrant blue-pink-green colorway. It's designed for an oversized fit, which is ideal for fall and winter layering.

Amazon

Anrabess Oversized Long Sleeve Quarter Zip

$40, was $50

Look luxe for a fraction of the price with this super-soft quarter-zip pullover. Whether you wear it for WFH days or grocery store trips, it'll keep you warm and cozy with a plush ribbed knit material. The longline hem and raised collar will give you extra coverage on those especially-cold days.

Early Kitchen Deals

Amazon

Nutribullet Pro+ Personal Blender

$100, was $130

This Pro+ personal blender from Nutribullet delivers "more extraction power, more convenience, and more functionality" than their original model, saving you effort and time in the kitchen where it's needed the most. The best part is it doesn't take up nearly as much real estate on your counters like a traditional blender would (small space-friendly)! Save 23% now, ahead of October's Prime Day event.

Amazon

Philips 3200 Series Fully Automatic Espresso Machine

$600, was $1,000

Splurge, anyone? This insanely luxe at-home espresso machine crafts the perfect cup with 6 pre-set beverage options, an efficient milk frother, and an adjustable bean grinder to achieve the ideal brew. It sounds intricate, but is actually super easy to use with high-visibility buttons and dishwasher-safe components for easy cleanup. Upgrade your current coffee routine for a whopping $400 off right now.

Amazon

Carote Pots And Pans 11-Piece Set

$70, was $120 with option to use 10% off coupon

These gorgeous pots and pans are such an easy kitchen upgrade, especially since they're half-off. They're uniquely designed with detachable lids and handles to seamlessly fit inside your cabinets, saving ample space. The non-stick cookware surface delivers "rapid and even" heat to any dish you please! This set would also make a stunning gift to someone who's just moved to a new spot.

Amazon

Ninja Foodi 11-In-1 Air Fryer Pressure Cooker

$130, was $200

This 6.5-quart air fryer and pressure cooker does much more than air fry and pressure-cook. It's fitted with 11 different settings that range from steaming to broiling, and even dehydrating. It's gonna be a massively worthwhile kitchen upgrade if you tend to cook for the whole family or large potluck groups. If you're craving more easy meal ideas, it comes equipped with a 45+ recipe guide!

Amazon

Ninja Woodfire Pro Outdoor Grill & Smoker

$300, was $400

If you've got a griller at home, they'll adore this grill, smoker, and air fryer all in one! It delivers the same char and searing that a large propane-powered grill would, taking up way less space. It's conveniently powered by electricity, but is compatible with Ninja's real burning wood pellets for added smoky flavor. It includes an attached thermometer that allows you to check the temps of whatever you're cooking with ease.

Early Home Deals

Amazon

Hatch Restore 2 Sunrise Alarm Clock

$170, was $200

This science-backed sunrise alarm clock is a total game-changer in supporting your natural circadian rhythm. It can send you to bed with a variety of white noise settings and nature sounds, then will wake you up calmly with a gentle light that mimics the rising sun. Tons of Amazon shoppers attest to its transformative properties – and the fact that it looks gorgeous on a nightstand.

Amazon

Urevo Under Desk Treadmill

$250, was $330

With 5 layers of anti-slip belt, 8 silicone shock absorbers, and 2 soft rubber pads, this under-desk treadmill provides a comfortable experience for getting your daily step goal in. The "powerful motor" is surprisingly quiet, so you won't have to worry about noisy distractions. The included remote control makes adjusting the speed easy, up to 4 miles per hour.

Amazon

Blueair Large Room Air Purifier

$190, was $350

This top-rated air purifier cleans up to 3,048 square feet in 60 minutes, removing "at least 99.97%" of tiny airborne particles like smoke, dust, and dander to keep the air in your home feeling (and smelling) fresh. The coordinating mobile app makes it super easy to monitor the device's performance, and will even notify you when it's time for a filter change! Its compact size allows you to place it out of the way of traffic for a seamless experience.

Amazon

Dyson V8 Plus Cordless Vacuum

$350, was $470

This Dyson deal is too good. Known for its high power and ability to clean every nook and cranny, this cordless vacuum is such a powerhouse. It comes with 3 attachments to target your desired space, and can operate up to 40 minutes on a full charge.

Amazon

Amazon Fire TV 40" 2-Series HD Smart TV

$160, was $250

This Prime member-exclusive deal is too good to pass up. Watch your favorite TV shows and movies in HD with this Amazon Fire screen – it gives you "quick access" to all your go-to's, including games and music, too. Its remote is equipped with Alexa, so you can easily navigate to your desired watch via voice control.

Amazon

FelixKing Ergonomic Office Chair

$120, was $170 with option to use 5% off coupon

Ditch your current creaky desk chair for a fancy new upgrade. This ergonomic design provides 5 supporting points across your head, shoulders, back, hips, and hands with proper lumbar support to prevent those pesky workday aches and pains. You'll enjoy the breathability of the mesh backing and the ability to adjust the chair's height to your liking. It comes in 9 stylish colors in addition to this all-black pick!

Amazon

Bluetti Portable Power Station

$198, was $299

From camping trips to tailgates, this portable power station will back up your plans when you need to charge or power up your devices. It comes with an AC charging cable, a solar charging cable (solar panel not included), and a user manual to ensure streamlined operation. Its 9 outlets – from USB-A and USB-C to 1 car port and 1 wireless charger – support a wide variety of charging needs to make sure your next adventure runs smoothly.

Amazon

TushGuard Memory Foam Seat Cushion

$17, was $27 with option to use 10% off coupon

We're no stranger to work-induced back pain. This memory foam seat cushion can be used at your desk, at the kitchen table, in the car, or even on stadium bleachers to support a healthy sitting position! The material on top is soft and breathable, while the bottom boasts a rubber coating to prevent annoying slips. The u-shaped design fits your hips to "effectively support" the coccyx, relieving any pain from sitting in the same place for extended amounts of time.

Amazon

HiLife Clothes Steamer

$36, was $60 with option to use $5 off coupon

If you reside in too small a space to whip out an iron and ironing board frequently, this compact clothes steamer is gonna be a lifesaver. It uses high-temperature steam and a metal panel to smooth out wrinkles for a range of fabrics. It's also equipped with an efficiently-designed 300-milliliter water tank that's capable of steaming up to 6 garments on a single fill.

Amazon

Bissell Little Green Multi-Purpose Portable Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner

$100, was $124

This conveniently compact carpet cleaner can tackle tough pet spots and stains on carpet, upholstery, and car interiors. It's lightweight, easy to use with interchangeable attachments, and capable of tackling lots of mileage on a single fill from the 48-ounce water or cleaning product tank.

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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Women like Kristin Cavallariare giving a middle finger to outdated rules like who's allowed to have an age gap relationship or not, and it's refreshing to see. As much as we remember her for her time on The Hills, she's branched out as an author, entrepreneur, and host of the podcast Let's Be Honest with Kristin Cavallari. Speaking of her podcast, Kristin Cavallari didn't hold back in her when she dished about her ex-boyfriend Mark Estes.

At first listen, her giddy tone is evident and immediately captivated listeners for the 45 minutes she gushed about the key details that led her to a new relationship. Since then, the two had quite a public relationship even if was short-lived!

How did Kristin Cavallari meet her ex-boyfriend Mark Estes?

Mike Coppola/Getty Images

We're truly living in a digital age because TikTok is the reason Kristin Cavallari was introduced to her ex-boyfriend Mark Estes. She told her best friend Justin Anderson that she was scrolling down her timeline when she came across what she called a "boy group" called The Montana Boyz and they both agreed one of them specifically is her type. She said, "He's gorgeous. Like, everything about him is perfect. But, he's also outdoorsy and manly."

Three weeks later, she got a DM from The Montana Boyz that said "I love you" and she immediately let them know she wanted to have them on her podcast. Although the podcast didn't happen, Kristin Cavallari appeared in one of their TikTok videos. Once Kristin Cavallari learned from her assistant that they were planning to move to Nashville, she arranged for a line dancing meet-up with The Montana Boyz and her staff. After they met, Kristin decided to call the guy who would become her ex-boyfriend "Montana." (Cavallari used Montana as a stand in for her boyfriend's real name during the podcast recording as she never names anyone explicitly on her show.)

Shortly after that, Kristin Cavallari hard launched her new relationship with ex-boyfriend Mark Estes on Instagram in February, and the rest is history!

How did she feel about their age gap?

Presley Ann/Getty Images for MTV

Kristin Cavallari didn't know how young The Montana Boyz were, but she wasn't interested in pursuing a relationship with Mark Estes at first. She did admit she had a brief issue with their age gap, but decided that Mark being 24 while she's 37 didn’t really bother her. Justin pointed out that she actually used to say she wouldn't date guys who were only 30 because she thought they were too young. However, she was more interested in who Mark was as a person and notes that life experiences and how you were raised is more indicative of one's maturity level than age alone.

Did Kristin Cavallari's kids like Mark Estes?

Jason Kempin/Getty Images

Kristin Cavallari said her boys were so excited to meet Mark for the first time and she felt like they really wanted her to be happy. "I've been really good about separating my dating life from their [life]," she said. Her oldest son especially approved of Mark and it was shocking to Kristin because he's usually the toughest judge of whoever she's dating.

How did her career prepare her for public opinions about their relationship?

Terry Wyatt/Getty Images

Kristin Cavallari didn’t care what anyone thought about her ex-boyfriend. She's lived life in the public eye and is comfortable enough with herself to make decisions that make her happy. Kristin said, "...when this news came out, it's the first time in my entire life I 100% haven't given a sh-t what anyone thinks... My own mother is noticing a difference in me."

Did she mention anything about her divorce from Jay Cutler?

Timothy Hiatt/Getty Images

Kristin Cavallari and Jay Cutler were married for seven years before announcing their divorce in 2020. She didn't go into detail about it during the podcast episode, but she did talk about the magnitude of her former relationship with her ex-boyfriend. "It's the first time I've gone public since my divorce," she said.

How did Mark Estes adjust to being in the public eye with Kristin Cavallari?

www.youtube.com

Montana Boyz's Mark Estes Says He's a "TRUE ROMANTIC" With Girlfriend Kristin Cavallari | E! News

Mark Estes may be in the spotlight because he dated Kristin Cavallari, but that didn’t mean he was enthusiastic about it. E! News caught up with him at the CMT Awards and he said, "It comes with the territory, I guess...It is what it is." One thing his friend Kade Wilcox — another one of The Montana Boyz — mentioned is that Mark was quite the romanticist when it came to Kristin Cavallari. He told the outlet, "He's pretty good at date nights."

How did Kristin Cavallari feel about dating a younger man?

Uncommon James

Kristin Cavallari and Mark Estes may have been in bliss for a short while, but the former knows having an age gap in a relationship isn't always applauded by others. " I understand what it looks like from the outside world of, like, yeah, I’m dating a 24-year-old, but no one in my life has been like, ‘This is weird.’ Everyone’s like, ’I get it. It makes sense,'" she said (via Bustle).

She also said, "...Emotionally, he’s able to step up to the plate, and he’s shown up for me more than anyone else I’ve ever dated," (via Bustle). And according to her, Mark's all in when it comes to her kids and they love him for it. "He loves my kids. He actually took my kids to school, and it's just—he fits in very well. And I'm really thankful for that," (via E! News).

It's not easy balancing being an attentive mom who has a full-fledged career and relationship, but Kristin seemed grateful for the way Mark stepped up to the plate. She said he made things feel "so easy" which is something all moms crave!

Watch The Full Campaign Video For Hard Feelings Eau De Parfum 

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Hard Feelings The Debut Eau De Parfum From Uncommon James

Since talking about everything from her time on Laguna Beach to her relationship, Kristin Cavallari and Mark Estes appeared together in an ad campaign for her brand's new fragrance, Hard Feelings. It's described as an "alluring" scent that's meant to invigorate one's senses. With notes like pink pepper, hibiscus, and sandalwood, we don't doubt it's sensuality!

What's the steamy thing  Kristin revealed about her former relationship?

Uncommon James

During the "Truth or Drink with Mark Estes" episode on Let's Be Honest with Kristin Cavallari, Kristin and Mark delved into steamy secrets about their relationship. The latter even dropped a bombshell when he admitted he enjoyed being intimate with Kristin. He said, "Yeah, you’re the best sex I've ever had for sure," which shocked her.

Though she liked his confession, she said she "didn't know that" before letting him know she felt the same. But, she attributed their hot sex to things like being "more present physically during sex" and being "wildly attracted" to Mark.

But, their relationship isn't all about their amazing romps in bed. Mark was “obviously so in love" with Kristin so that added to the spiciness factor!

Why did Kristin Cavallari And Mark Estes break up?

Mindy Small/Getty Images

Sadly, all of the passion Kristin Cavallari and Mark Estes had fizzled out because they broke up after 7 months of being in a relationship (via Us Weekly). She told Alex Cooper, host of the Call Her Daddy podcast, the breakup was “fresh,” (via PEOPLE ).

It doesn’t seem like their breakup ended on a sour note, but we’ll see if they share more about it in the coming weeks!

What do you think about Kristin Cavallari and Mark Estes’ breakup?

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

This post has been updated.

Dudes — do you own a flannel? Well, we're pretty sure that you do, so behold SIX different ideas for easy costumes for men using that one shirt! You're welcome. Even if you have a different Halloween party every day of the week, you'll have different costumes you can wear to each one. Not only are they made with things you already own, but they're also pretty comfortable if we do say so ourselves.

To make these epic Halloween costumes, we picked up this basic red flannel from our local thrift store for $5 and paired it with a bunch of basic clothes most men already have. Scroll on to see how we made these super easy (last-minute even!) halloween costumes!

Brit + Co

Thanks to Zane for rocking all of these looks!

The Brawny Man Halloween Costume

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Men, get those muscles and those pearly whites ready for this flannel shirt costume! In our eyes, the Brawny Man has everything we're looking for. He’s got that tough muscle bod to swoop us off our feet, the square jaw line to melt our hearts and the perfect dark hair that we just can’t wait to run our fingers through.

Brit + Co

First, shop the (hilarious) Muscle Shirt. Think of it like a push-up bra for your entire torso. Cut off the lower arm section of the muscle suit so you can roll up the flannel sleeves and get down to business. Don't forget to grab a pack of Brawny paper towels to complete the costume!

Brit + Co

Don't panic if you start saying things like, “Oh gosh, is that some dirt over there on your vanity mirror? Girl, I’ve got you. Let me fix that.”

Brit + Co

We're giving this two thumbs' up because it's such an easy costume for men!

Al Borland Halloween Costume

Brit + Co

Remember this 90s sidekick from Home Improvement? Go as him or just any tool-belt-loving fella ;).

Brit + Co

This is a super easy costume for men because if you're a workman, you probably already have the flannel, boot cut jeans, and work boots! The key to getting this look right, however, is all about the accessories. We purchased this basic tool belt from Amazon. Fill it with your tools (or a flask) to really get you in the Halloween spirit.

Brit + Co

We all hate measuring to hang up your favorite framed pieces of wall art. Don’t worry, Al is here to save the day!

Brit + Co

If you don't want to commit to a full bushel of a beard, we understand. We picked up this fake beard and find the look quite comical. You can trim it to get a look that you like best.

Larry The Cable Guy Halloween Costume

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“I'm happier than a tornado in a trailer park!" There's nothing better than a man who can make you laugh. Larry the Cable Guy has a particular kind of humor, but the one thing we can always count on him for is his sleeveless flannel shirts. I guess he must always be running warm.

Brit + Co

Get ready to release some anger, because you’ll need to rip off the sleeves for this look. (Meaning that if you're planning on using all of these costumes, you might want to save this one for last). Pair your sleeveless flannel with boot cut jeans, boots and a trucker-inspired baseball cap.

Brit + Co

This look says, “My cooking is probably subpar, but I can make you laugh while we try to cook together.” ;)

Brit + Co

Larry's signature look is his goatee-mustache combo. We weren't going to subject Zane to actually shaving for this costume, so instead we created the look with a fake goatee stick-on beard and a brown eyebrow pencil. Easy as pie.

The Hipster Halloween Costume

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Does your beer brewing side hobby need your constant attention?

Brit + Co

Zane completely dressed for this costume himself from his own wardrobe. Pair your flannel with a V-neck tee, cuffed slim-fitting jeans and your best pair of leather loafers. Accessories are a must — think thick-rimmed glasses, beanie hat and a cold beer. PBR or Tecate will do the trick, since you are already in the process of creating the perfect beer yourself ;)

Brit + Co

Need man bun styling tips? Or man braids if your hair is long enough.

Marty McFly Halloween Costume

Brit + Co

Okay, real talk – can you believe the year Marty traveled to in his time machine was 2015? How time flies (even if the cars don't).

Brit + Co

Marty’s iconic look is all about the layers, so be sure to add a jean jacket and that signature puffy vest over the flannel. Pair with boot cut jeans and the whitest pair of 90’s (dad) sneakers you own.

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Zach let us borrow his board but you can find an inexpensive skateboard on Amazon too.

Brit + Co

Keep the hair simple. We went for a side part and wind-blown vibes — traveling through time is windy, right?

Wind-blown Man Costume

Brit + Co

We’ve all had those bad umbrella days…All jokes aside, this look was our absolute favorite to create. We are just dying over the fact that no wind or fan was used in creating this photo.

Brit + Co

We had Zane dress in a normal everyday outfit, then added some wind-blown tweaks. You will want to stick wire down the inside of your tie to give it a rippled shape and then safety pin it to corner of the flannel. We also pinned up the bottom corner of the shirt and taped on some wind-blown newspaper ads to the knee of the pants. Most importantly, you’ll want a broken, inside-out umbrella to complete this costume.

And that's a wrap!

How do you feel about these flannel costumes? Let us know in the comments, and don't forget to tag us in all your flannel costumes on Instagram!

How do you feel about these flannel costumes? Let us know in the comments, and don't forget to tag us in all your flannel costumes on Instagram!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

This post has been updated.