CVS Beauty Is Seriously Rethinking Retouched Photos

Shea Lignitz
Jan 16, 2018

Retouching has been an accepted practice in advertising since its inception. However, in recent years, more and more companies have begun shunning the tool, in order to appeal to consumers on a more relatable and authentic level. Brands such as ASOS, aerie, and Darling to the world’s biggest photo service, Getty Images have all gotten in on the trend. Now there’s a giant new player in the game that’s embracing a more natural approach to beauty: CVS Pharmacy.

According to Refinery29, starting in April, the drugstore retailer will put a “Beauty mark” on all CVS-owned images to let customers know which images aren’t altered. For brands that provide their own imagery, they have to include a disclaimer on all ads that are retouched.

The company’s president, Helena Foulkes, told Refinery29, “There is a clear connection between unrealistic body images and negative health effects…so we will be focused on implementing the guidelines as it relates to physical appearances. That means CVS will not alter a person’s shape, size, proportion, skin, or eye color, as well as other individual characteristics like enhancing or altering lines and wrinkles. We hope that this effort will encourage authenticity and transparency so that beauty is something that always makes women feel good, and never not good enough.” Foulkes said that “as a company that is committed, above all else, to the health and well-being of its customers, [they] have an opportunity to start a conversation that can lead to positive change.” That sounds like a mission we can get behind.

What do you think of CVS’ new initiative? Tell us @BritandCo!

(Photos via SAUL LOEB/AFP/Getty, CVS)

11 Expensive-Looking Amazon Christmas Decorations Under $35

Now that Halloween is officially over, it’s time to lean into all things holiday cheer. My favorite way to get into the Christmas spirit is decorating my space to match all the cookie decorating parties, gift wrapping sessions, and holiday cocktail hours to come this winter. But I’m one to do this on a budget – I often hit the thrift store for Christmas decor. When I’m not there, I’m scouring Amazon for pieces that are cute, but still take it easy on my wallet.

These are the best Amazon Christmas decorations I found that don’t cost an arm and a leg, but rival styles you’d find at more upscale stores like Anthropologie and Nordstrom:

Amazon

Peiduo Small LED Light Birch Trees

These tiny trees lit by twinkly LED lights are perfect for topping your mantle or dinner table. I think they add just the right amount of whimsy to your space, no matter how you decorate with them! They're not necessarily Christmas-specific, either. Their simple design allows you to spruce 'em up in all kinds of ways year-round. Similar pieces at Target and Anthropologie range from $21 $68 for one tree, but you can get two trees for just $25 on Amazon right now.

Amazon

Plaid Throw Pillow Covers

Plaid – specifically red plaid – is timeless when it comes to Christmas decor. It never fails to make a space extra cozy! These 18x18-inch covers are perfect for throw pillows on your bed and couch alike. You can snag this set of 2 in a few other holiday-ready colorways for just $10, and they'll likely last you a while with the right care.

    Amazon

    Artgar Real Touch Pine Garland

    If you have a mantle, use it! A mantle is prime real estate for Christmas decorations like stockings, candles, and cards – but none of that is truly complete without a good garland! This 6-foot faux pine garland can easily span your mantle to fill in any negative space and simply make things cozier. It comes with attached LED lights (no wall plug necessary, just a few batteries) as well as pinecone accents to make the garland itself feel fuller. Plus, $30 isn't so bad for a statement piece like this!

    Amazon

    Vintage Bow Decorative Tray

    This piece reminds me of a tray Pottery Barn Teen and LoveShackFancy sells in their collaborative collection, except it literally costs $60 less. It's not a total dupe, but the one thing it does have in common is bows: the most adorable reference to gifting season! I think this $9 pick could be so cute as a serving platter for Christmas desserts or even as a festive catchall you keep on your coffee table throughout the holidays.

    Amazon

    Kate Aspen Retro Floral Drinking Glasses

    The intricate design on these green-tinted glasses really has me hooked. They'd look so good with any sort of Christmas party tablescape – as long as you're sipping Christmas cocktails out of them! A similar set of 6 is currently being sold on Quince for $48. This one's only $26.

    Subscribe to our newsletter to shop even more holiday decor!

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

    holiday decoramazonchristmas decorshoppingbudget-friendlyhome decor

    20 Trader Joe's Finds That Will Make You Want To Eat Healthy This Year

    Trader Joe’s, though very tempting with their vast array of sweet treats, is truly a secret weapon for eating healthy and sustaining a healthy diet. TJ’s aisles are packed full of nutritious (yet delicious) options, all of which are often easy to prepare and even easier to devour. Whether you’re focusing on fueling your workouts with protein, cutting back on sugar, or simply eating more whole foods in 2025, Trader Joe’s has plenty of affordable, wholesome finds to keep your diet inspired.

    Below, find the best Trader Joe’s products that make sticking to your 2025 resolutions a breeze!

    Trader Joe's

    Creamy Dreamy Hummus

    Hummus is an instant snack hack if you're trying to eat a high-protein diet – this $3 one from TJ's boasts a "thick, rich, and exquisitely creamy" texture. Slap it on a wrap or dip in some veggie sticks to give your meal a nice boost.

    Trader Joe's

    Vegetable Root Chips

    These veggie root chips make a deliciously healthy swap for your traditional potato chips as they're packed with fiber and plenty of color to enjoy!

    Trader Joe's

    Organic Super Bread

    Though you might not guess it at first glance, this loaf contains whole wheat flour, organic rye flour, organic rolled oats, organic millet, organic pumpkin seeds, organic flax seeds, organic sunflower seeds, organic carrots, organic dried apple, and organic dried banana – that's a mouthful! If your 2025 goal is to eat more whole foods without sacrificing a ton of familiar foods, this is the bread for you!

    Trader Joe's

    Cut Sweet Potatoes

    These 'taters come already cut, so all you gotta do is toss 'em in some olive oil and spices, bake on a sheet pan, pair it with a protein, and voila! Dinner is served.

    Trader Joe's

    Organic Dried Ataulfo Mango Slices

    These mango slices make a great healthy snack to enjoy on the go. They taste just like candy, except without all the excess processed sugar.

    Trader Joe's

    Solid White Albacore Tuna

    Protein fiends already know what's up with canned tuna. It's the perfect base for tuna salads, wraps, and bakes. Plus, one can goes for just $2 at TJ's – stock up!

    Trader Joe's

    Caesar Broccoli Bake Kit

    This pre-made kit makes getting a side dish on the table super easy and healthy. It comes with all the fixings, like Caesar dressing, crouton crumbs, and Parmesan cheese.

    Trader Joe's

    10 Minute Farro

    Traditionally, farro takes anywhere from 30 to 45 minutes to fully cook. This bag of Trader Joe's farro defies all tradition and is ready in just 10 minutes! The whole grain is really rich in protein and fiber, so you know you'll be eating healthy when you choose to chow down.

    Trader Joe's

    Vanilla Bean Whole Milk Greek Yogurt

    Greek yogurt is *the* breakfast hack to rule all breakfast hacks. It's high in protein, plus is typically packed with plenty of probiotics to keep your gut real healthy. Enjoy a heaping scoop with some fresh (or frozen) fruit, granola, and honey to get a tasty start to the day.

    Trader Joe's

    Rainbow's End Trail Mix Bars

    Healthy snacks can be really hard to track down at TJ's, especially since they have so many sinful goodies on their shelves. Luckily, these trail mix bars exist, bringing a yummy medley of oats, nuts, raisins, and chocolatey bits to satisfy that sweet tooth without weighing you down during the day!

    Trader Joe's

    Carb Savvy Tortillas

    If you're set on watching your intake of carbs, these tortillas are a must-have. They contain 21% of your daily recommended value of fiber (6 grams each) according to TJ's, and make an excellent addition to wraps, quesadillas, or just as a snack.

    Trader Joe's

    Organic Brown Rice Cake Thins

    These rice cakes may be thinner than most, but they still boast an enjoyably dense texture, perfect for layering on some peanut butter and banana for an easy, fulfilling snack.

    Trader Joe's

    Pulled Chicken Salsa Verde

    This fully-cooked chicken is ideal for people seeking a convenient, time-saving meal. The salsa verde flavoring instantly qualifies them for delicious tacos, quesadillas, burritos, burrito bowls, nachos – the list goes on! Just pop it in the microwave for 4 minutes, and boom – time to eat!

    Trader Joe's

    Perfect Bar Peanut Butter Protein Bar

    This protein bar is called the Perfect Bar because it's literally perfect. The sweetness is at just the right level, the texture is so satisfying, and the high protein content (17 grams) fills you up easily if you're seeking a substantial mid-day snack.

    Trader Joe's

    Classic Greek Salad

    With this ready-made salad kit, you won't have to think too hard at all about what you're having for a healthy lunch. Feel free to grab 5 at a time, because you will be hooked. Add some chicken or salmon on top to bulk it up with extra protein!

    Trader Joe's

    Stir Fry Veggie Blend

    Why pick up 5 or more individual ingredients for stir fry when you can just grab this $3 bag, cook it, and call it a day? We highly recommend cheffing this up with TJ's Soyaki sauce and your protein of choice.

    Trader Joe's

    High Protein Organic Tofu

    One serving of this tofu contains 14 grams of protein, which is higher than what you can typically find elsewhere. Plus, it's certifiably organic, so it's always gonna be clean eating-friendly.

    Trader Joe's

    Organic Tricolor Quinoa

    Quinoa makes an impressive grain base for bowls and salads. This one boasts a healthy mix of white, red, and black quinoa for some good variety!

    Trader Joe's

    Crunchy Curls

    These 100% vegan bites are the ultimate movie snack and are way healthier than your average bag of theater popcorn. They're made with lentil flour and potato starch for a superb texture every time.

    Trader Joe's

    Organic Brown Rice & Quinoa Fusilli Pasta

    This organic, gluten-free pasta delivers 4 grams of protein and 2 grams of fiber per serving, making each meal nutritious as ever.

    Subscribe to our newsletter to discover more of the best Trader Joe's products!

    trader joe'shealthy eatinghealthy foodgrocery shoppingfood

    13 Cheap Dinner Ideas For Big Savings On Your Grocery Bill

    Dinner doesn't have to break the bank to be delicious and satisfying. Imagine savoring a hearty bowl of veggie soup or twirling your fork through a plate of creamy lemon pasta – all without stretching your wallet. We're here to break it to you that it's entirely possible to create a variety of mouthwatering meals that are as kind to your budget as they are to your taste buds. Explore our 13 fave cheap dinner ideas that prove great flavor doesn’t have to come at a high price!

    Anniespratt / Unsplash

    Fried Rice

    Leftover rice is the key to making some bomb fried rice. For the veggies, you can use frozen carrots, peas, and bell peppers, which is way more cost-effective than buying them fresh. (via Brit + Co)

    Brit + Co

    Sheet Pan Shrimp Fajitas

    These sheet pan fajitas only require a few ingredients, plus plenty of spices that you likely already have sitting in your kitchen. The one-pan aspect of this recipe also makes it super easy and quick, an ideal meal for busy weeknights. (via Brit + Co)

    Rebecca Firsker

    Citrusy Shakshuka

    This savory, citrusy shaksuka only costs around $2 per serving. Using canned goods saves you heaps of money! (via Brit + Co)

    Vikalinka

    Easy Dan Dan Noodles

    The limited ingredient list for this noodle recipe means spending less at the store. But just because you're spending less, doesn't mean that this dish isn't full of flavor! Plus, these noodles are totally on the same level as any costly takeout option. (via Vikalinka)

    Averie Cooks

    Easy 10-Minute Shrimp Scampi

    This shirmp scampi is so worth it, but it doesn't break the bank at all. What's better is that it's packed with protein! (via Averie Cooks)

    A Virtual Vegan

    Vegan Veggie Soup

    This vegan soup is the tastiest excuse to clean out your fridge and freezer. You can easily use canned or frozen veggies in favor of fresh ones to save some coins. (via A Virtual Vegan)

    The First Mess

    Oven-Roasted Cabbage Wedges with Caper Raisin Relish

    Any veggie-based dish is going to be a bit more budget-friendly, since you're not necessarily splurging on meaty proteins. These elevated roasted cabbage wedges hit all the flavor marks, and are ready in just 30 minutes. (via The First Mess)

    Whole and Heavenly Oven

    Browned Butter Lemon Dill Pasta

    Brown butter is a quick and easy way to elevate any sort of recipe from savory to sweet, but it really shines in this simple lemon-dill pasta dish, making the flavors more complex and well-rounded. This cheap dinner idea only requires 5 easy-to-find ingredients! (via Whole and Heavenly Oven)

    The Fast Recipe

    Easy Spam Eggs and Rice

    Spam, eggs, and rice are all some of the cheapest items you can snag at the store. Combine all three for a deliciously easy meal to indulge in after a long day! (via The Fast Recipe)

    Rachel Mansfield

    Crispy Sweet Potato Chicken Taquitos

    All you need is 6 simple ingredients to craft these extra-crunchy on the outside, soft and cheesy on the inside taquitos. You can even freeze the leftovers once they're done to make your cooking efforts stretch and save you money in the future. (via Rachel Mansfield)

    The Girl on Bloor

    Instant Pot Chana Masala

    If you're willing to do a bit of prep work, this chana masala gets done in about 20 minutes. The most expensive components are likely the chickpeas, onion, and canned tomatoes – but they're not going to set you back too much, plus this recipe yields lots of servings to supply you with ample leftovers. (via The Girl on Bloor)

    Earthly Provisions

    Vegan Chickpea Broccoli Stir Fry

    Toss some chickpeas and broccoli in a pan with this recipe's delicious stir fry sauce for a little bit, then serve over some freshly-made rice for a healthy, cost-effective dinner. (via Earthly Provisions)

    Completely Delicious

    Salmon Patties

    This simple salmon patty dinner idea is easy to whip up and even easier to devour. Each one is seasoned to perfection with the help of lemon and herbs. The best part is you can use canned salmon or even leftover cooked salmon (way cheaper than fresh) to form each bite! (via Completely Delicious)

    Subscribe to our newsletter for more easy recipes!

    recipeseasy recipescheap mealsbudget-friendlydinner recipesfood

    25 "Deep" Questions To Ask Yourself Before 2025 Begins

    So, you've found your 2025 word of the year and are ready for the biggest reset of your life. Now all you have to do is map out how you're going to get there. You could opt for vague ideas that live only in your head, but when has that motivated you to achieve your goals in the past?

    If you think we're putting you on the spot, we're not! We're here to encourage you to dream boldly by being detailed about what you actually want. Of course, we have the perfect list of deep questions and journal prompts so you can tap into the life you want to live.

    Here are 25 deep questions to ask yourself and journal about to guide you toward your 2025 vision of personal growth and self-improvement:

    Marcus Aurelius

    Questions About Your Daily Routine

    Please don't throw eggs at us! We know you don't want to feel governed by a schedule like you're in grade school, but there are benefits to having something to guide you daily. According to Northwestern Medicine, you can "reduce stress" and even "get better rest" by having a routine.

    If you've been promising yourself to improve in these areas, here are 5 questions to ask yourself:

    • How many of hours of sleep do I typically get per night?
    • What distractions can I eliminate before bed so I'm not groggy in the morning? (i.e., no more binge watching my favorite TV shows or scrolling mindlessly on TikTok)?
    • Do I have a morning routine or do I rush through taking a shower, brushing my teeth, and eating breakfast?
    • How do I usually feel when I get to work?
    • Am I okay with setting a reminder for myself to take a break during the work day so I can stretch my legs, eat lunch, or go for a quick walk?

    SHVETS production

    Questions About Your Self-Care

    Making time for your self-care is a part of your daily routine, but we want to dig deeper by sharing questions that'll help you reflect on how you treat yourself.

    • How do I want to feel about myself in 2025?
    • Did I have moments I looked in the mirror and didn't like the way my skin or body looked this year?
    • Have I been prioritizing my mental health?
    • Did I make space for exercising (i.e. walking, yoga, running, etc.)?
    • Did I create healthy boundaries with family, friends, or someone I'm dating?

    Brit + Co

    Questions About Your Career

    We almost said, "Here comes the fun part," but that would be unfair for people who consider other areas of their lives more important to chasing a career. If you are focused on pursuing something you're passionate about or simply want to earn a new promotion, here's what you can ask yourself:

    • What are my biggest career accomplishments this year?
    • What skills do I need to sharpen that align with the position I want?
    • How do I respond to constructive criticism?
    • What is my usual response to change or tight deadlines?
    • Do I ask for help when I don't understand a project or concept?

    Brit + Co

    Questions About Your Home

    Your home is anywhere that you live even if you're renting or living with your parents for the time being.

    • How did the energy in my home feel?
    • Did I do anything to make it feel like me?
    • How can I create a relaxing environment in my room that promotes rest and relaxation?
    • Do I want to have a certain aesthetic for my living room, office, etc.?
    • What does having a clean and organized home mean to me?

    SHVETS production

    Questions About Your Relationships

    Have you been making excuses for toxic friends or ignoring red flags? If it's okay, we're going to sit by you and gently suggest it's time for a change. The kind of life you want to live can't be weighed down by old habits of yours or some of the people you've been spending time with, especially if you've been feeling uncomfortable.

    • What kind of friendships do I want to have in 2025?
    • Do I have a reliable support system?
    • What did I love about my romantic relationship this year?
    • Are there certain conversations I need to have with family members, friends, or my partner that I've been avoiding?
    • Do I need to change the way I show up in my platonic or romantic relationships?

    Get a jumpstart on transforming your space for 2025 with easy feng shui tips!

    new years resolutionsjournal promptsjournal challengequestionsholidays

    10 Epic Stores From The '90s We Can't Believe Are Gone

    The '90s were a great time, according to millennials. It was a time of rollerblading, listening to cassette players, playing Super Mario Bros. on Nintendos, having birthday parties at Chuck E. Cheese, and more. Besides this and other pop culture moments that went viral before social media existed, the '90s gave us classic stores we used to frequent as kids.

    Despite meeting their demise as the Y2K age took over, we'll never forget the fun memories (and maximalist vibes) these stores gave us!

    Take a walk down memory lane by revisiting our favorite '90s stores that will take you back in time (and make you feel old):

    Getty Images

    1. Party City

    Our hearts are hurting because we don't understand why one of the most popular decor stores is closing. The brand was apparently facing "financial challenges," according to it's CEO Barry Litwin (via CNN). There were other issues behind the scenes, but everything trickled down to money, or a lack thereof.

    It's so shocking because some of us just picked up a few holiday items from Party City this month! It was one of the stores that seemed to have everything we needed before Amazon became the mega wholesaler that it is today.

    I guess this means we should've cherished Party City a little more because it's officially gone.

    Getty Images

    2. Blockbuster

    Long before streaming platforms like Netflix and Peacock existed, people used to spend Friday nights looking at rows of VHS movies to rent. If you were lucky, your parents would stop by Blockbuster before picking up pizza for dinner. It was the ultimate '90s treat…until it wasn’t.

    When we want to remember what it felt like visiting Blockbuster, we fast forward to that one scene in I Am Legend where Dr. Robert Neville is going to 'rent' movies. It's a little cringe now that we think about it, but it's the closet memory we have of spending at least 30 minutes picking out the VHS or DVD to watch.

    Getty Images

    3. Circuit City

    Raise your hand if you remember getting your first CD player or computer from Circuit City. The name alone conjures fun memories of running up and down the aisles pretending we could afford all the fun electronics. We watched desktop computers slowly morph into laptops, which seemed like an exciting time. Also, some of us watched our parents lament the cost of the required Texas Instrument calculators we needed for math class.

    Although Circuit City isn't around like it used to be, we'll never forget watching the world change through its eyes.

    Getty Images

    4. Virgin Music Store

    If you wanted to be a part of the cool crowd, you visited the Virgin music store. We aptly remember the neon sign and memorable displays that beckoned to us. Although we could find some of the same CDs at Circuit City, the store’s design didn’t feel stuffy.

    Getty Images

    5. Radio Shack

    This one’s personal because we stood in lines with our parents when they bought their first cell phones and DVD players. Also, one of our parents may or may not have purchased a very coveted Bratz convertible that played music from Radio Shack.

    Even though it wasn’t the biggest store, it gave us a taste of what the future had for us. Little did we know we’d lose this sweet store though.

    6. Border's

    As much as we love recommending books from Amazon and local bookshops, we miss when Border’s was around. There’s not much to say about this store besides how grown-up we felt when our parents would let us spend time there while they shopped at their favorite stores in the mall.

    Getty Images

    7. KB Toys

    Aside from Toys ‘R’ Us, we also remember when K.B. Toys was popular. Not unlike today, there wasn’t such a thing as having too many toy stores. Sometimes we found things at K.B.s that felt like a treat. The cluttered aisles probably annoyed our parents, but we were always happy when we were allowed to pick something out.

    Getty Images

    8. Wet Seal

    Yes, Wet Seal made the list of stores we loved in the '90s. Unlike Goody’s, it was specifically geared towards pre-teens and teens who wanted to wear the latest fashions. It was one of the the places to discover your style at the time even if it meant leaving piles of clothes for weary store associates to put back (sorry!)

    Though we miss it, we hope no one tries to revive it because we’re sure we’d see a few outdated fashion trends.

    Getty Images

    9. Esprit

    This was another store that screamed 'All American Teen Store.' Unlike Wet Seal, the store's layout and clothing were a little more 'sophisticated.' It spoke to teens who are now adults with a sleeker preppy style. It sounds like a reach, but it's not if you think about it. This store could give you logomania, tenniscore, or something that resembled the outfits from Saved By the Bell at the same time.

    10. Goody's

    Were you really a '90s kid if your mom didn’t drag you to Goody’s? Shockingly enough, we hardly ever complained because it felt like a huge store we could play in. Plus, it had clothes for everyone.

    And if there were a sale during BTS season? You could always count on our moms to leave the store with stuffed shopping bags.

    Which '90s stores do you wish were still open? Let us know on Facebook!

    90s fashionnostalgia90sfashion