What's An Eye Care Routine, And Do I Need One?

eye care how-to's

It’s 2023 – everyone knows about skincare routines. At this point, we've even branched out into taking more targeted care of the skin on our hands and décolletage. While our routines may already touch on the tender skin around our eyes and neck, what about our actual eyes? As a visually able person, I sometimes take my eyesight for granted, but I realize it’s important to recognize the gift of sight and take better care of my eyes. Incorporating an eye care routine may not be something you’ve ever thought of doing, but we’re here to show you why it’s so important.

Why should I take care of my eyes?

Age-related eye conditions and diseases are more frequent in women than in men, according to The Society for Women’s Health Research. These conditions include glaucoma, macular degeneration, and cataracts. Certain diseases can also result in trouble seeing clearly, or complete loss of vision. There are lots of external factors that can affect the eyes that we may not think twice about, but these can lead to varying degrees of disease or discomfort over time.

"Many people may notice symptoms like red, tired eyes, as well as burning and itching of the eyes that are commonly due to underlying dry eye and blepharitis, inflammation of the eyelids," says Ophthalmologist Dr. Kelsi Greider-Sideris, MD. She has a special interest in treating dry eye and is one of the few ophthalmologists trained to use the Lumenis OptiLight system to treat dry eye. "These symptoms are typically exacerbated by things like air conditioning, heating, contact lens wear, and screen time."

With all of that in mind, it seems increasingly more important to also consider your personal eye health in assessing your overall well-being.

What's an eye care routine?

Photo by Angela Roma / PEXELS

An eye care routine is a tailored plan you can follow to take proper care of your eyes and vision. You can develop a routine that works for you on your own, but we think it's a good idea to work with your eye doctor as well.

"Eyesight is often determined by your genetics and once your eyesight starts to deteriorate you cannot reverse it naturally," says Dr. Maria Montero, an ophthalmologist, surgeon, mother, and mentor with Orbis International. "You can follow an easy and simple routine to maintain your health."

Elements of a healthy eye care routine include eye exams, eating healthy foods, exercising, not smoking, avoiding getting bacteria near the eyes, taking your makeup off, and wearing preventative eyewear. Learn more about each step below.

Regular Eye Exams

Eye exams aren't just about getting new frames or contacts. At these appointments, doctors can monitor for eye diseases and abnormalities as well. This is some of the best preventative eye care you can give yourself, especially since most eye conditions are easily treatable or delayed when caught in early stages.

"It's important to visit your eye doctor at least once a year for a checkup," Dr. Montero said. "Even if you have perfect vision, you should still visit the eye doctor because they can detect eye conditions or other health problems."

Exercising Regularly

Photo by Polina Tankilevitch / PEXELS

Incorporating exercise into your routines can improve blood flow to the retina and optic nerve. This reduces overall complications with the eyes, and helps prevent eye conditions and diseases.

Eating Healthy Foods

When you were a kid, your grandmother may have told you to eat your carrots for healthy eyes as a kid, and she wasn't really wrong. Certain types of foods are great for maintaining good eyesight. Those include:

  • Dark, leafy greens like kale
  • Heart-healthy fish like salmon
  • Fruits and veggies that are high in Vitamins C and E

Not Touching Your Eyes With Dirty Hands

Photo by Darina Belonogova / PEXELS

Reducing exposure to bacteria is crucial in your ocular upkeep. If you have to touch your eyes, or even the skin close to them, make sure you thoroughly wash your hands before and after.

Not Smoking

If you’re a regular smoker, it could mean you’re twice as likely to develop macular degeneration and cataracts. The chemicals you inhale can negatively affect the flow of blood and oxygen to your eyes, resulting in further complications.

Maintaining Clean Makeup Brushes and Not Sharing Makeup

Photo by Meredith Holser

Healthy contact with your eyes means making sure you clean anything that gets close to them. This includes makeup brushes and other applicators without a doubt, as mascara wands and eyeshadow brushes can harbor tons of bacteria that could harm the eyes. You want to wash and disinfect them regularly, and definitely beware of sharing any applicators with friends.

"Make sure you choose high quality, hypoallergenic makeup, and remember to wash brushes and swap out your mascara for a fresh one every month," Dr. Greider-Sideris said. "There are makeup brands that are ophthalmologist tested and even ophthalmologist developed."

The same thing goes for beauty treatments like eyelash extensions, Dr. Montero said. It's important to be educated on how they can affect your eyes. "They're trendy right now, and generally are safe for your eyes," she said. "I recommend that you only go to a reputable salon with experienced personnel that uses high-quality glue. The glue can be harmful if it gets in your eye, causing a corneal burn or laceration. If the eyelash technician is not experienced or not using the right products, it can cause damage to your eyes."

Taking Your Makeup Off Before Bed

Dr. Yuna Rapoport, MD, MPH, and Board-Certified Ophthalmologist at Manhattan Eye recommends removing makeup thoroughly every night, using a gentle eye makeup remover, then doing a brief heat treatment. “I also recommend doing 30 seconds of heat to help open up the meibomian glands. Meibomian glands are important to the lubrication of the eye. If those glands are clogged, then the eye can develop aqueous deficiency dry eye. Heat treatment can be as simple as taking a clean washcloth in hot (but not burning!) water and leaving it on the eyelids for 30 seconds.”

Avoiding Harmful Skincare Near The Eyes

Photo by Shiny Diamonds / PEXELS

Certain ingredients found in skincare creams and serums can impact the eyes. “Vitamin A derivatives like Accutane and Retin-A can be toxic to the oil glands that line our eyelids that are important for lubricating the eye's surface,” Dr. Greider-Sideris said. “It is important to be aware that their use can lead to severe dry eye, so avoid getting Retin-A close to the eyelids.”

Sporting Protective Eyewear

Photo by Anna Shvets / PEXELS

Eyewear is a true two in one – glasses look chic, and also protect your eyes from harm. Wear sunglasses when you’re outside to protect your eyes from UV rays. Blue light glasses are a game-changer when it comes to working from home and scrolling social media. Try wearing safety glasses or goggles when you’re doing messy yard work or DIYs – they’ll block debris that irritate the eyes.

Do I need an eye care routine?

If you’re aiming to take the best care of your eyes, an eye care routine is absolutely necessary. Considering all of the factors above will put you ahead of the curve in the realm of eye care, helping you see well into your future.

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Header image by Shiny Diamonds / PEXELS

It's time to trade your leopard print and moody nails for pretty colors. Now that you're used to Daylight Savings Time, we know you're wearing the cutest spring dresses and spending time in the sun with your friends. What better way to celebrate this than by wearing the prettiest nail designs the season's ever seen?

If you're clueless about what to choose from, we're making things easier by sharing what we've bookmarked!

Scroll to find your the prettiest Easter nail ideas that'll set the tone for the best spring ever!

1. Nail Reformation Fleur De Magnolia 

Nail Reformation

Are you in your dainty girl era? Great, we are too! It's the perfect excuse to wear these pretty press-on nails from Nail Reformation! They feature the familiar French manicure design, but with pastel colors, florals, and cute pearls on each finger.

2. Colorful Arts & Crafts Nails

Sarah Torres/Dupe Photos

Remember when you used to draw abstract doodles in class? Take this as a sign to use your mini drawings as inspo for the easter nails you're thinking about wearing. They'll stand out no matter what you're wearing and may garner a few compliments when you're making your weekly Trader Joe's run!

3. BTArtbox Soft Gel French Press On Nails 

Amazon

This easter nail idea is debunking the myth that French manicures are boring. They're everything but because you can have so much with different designs. Unlike our first pretty pastel pick, these nails feature slanted and complementary colors that give it a modernized look.

4. Artsy Abstract Nails 

Jackie Dewar/Dupe Photos

Abstract nails continue to reign supreme for one reason: they're unforgettable and bring a smile to our face. This idea is perfect if spring makes you want to do as many quirky things as possible. Frolicking in a field of tulips for absolutely no zero reason at all? Make sure these nails graze as many of them as they can!

5. Juicy Fruit Nails 

Alexis Charles/Dupe Photos

Do you get anxiety every time your nail tech asks you to pick a color during your appointment? Pick five bright shades that fit many of your moods. She might not be happy, but at least your nails will look pretty.

6. Matcha Green Nails 

Lara Hayley/Dupe Photos

Are you obsessed with making matcha drinks like we are? Let your love for the green drink show with these pretty nails. They'll look great against your glass cup, making your roommates envious that they didn't consider this shade.

P.S. We won't judge you if you keep reaching for this nail idea off and on during spring.

7. Nail Reformation Garden Of Pearls Press On Nails 

Nail Reformation

Keep your love for green going, but go a few shades lighter with these pastel press-on nails. They're as dainty as Nail Reformation's Fleur De Magnolia nails, but they blend several designs together. From the class French manicure to metallic accents, you'll love watching the sun make them shimmer.

8. WICKED X KISS There's Joy

KISS

If you been watching Wicked all week, you'll love this collab between the movie and KISS. They feature the prettiest floral designs with cute little bees pollinating them. While we can't promise they'll make you get over your fear of the black and yellow cuties, we can all agree you won't be able to stop looking at your hands.

9. Olive & June Bandana Chrome Press On Nails

Olive & June

Instead of checkered print nails, take a walk on the wild side with Olive & June's bandana chrome nails. They're not as "girly" as our other easter nail idea picks, but you'll definitely have a great time wearing them the more you spend time in the sun.

10. Short And Sweet French Manicure 

Brit + Co Courtesy of Bellacures

Skip the acrylic and press-on nails in favor of your own with this short and sweet French manicure. They're a subtle nod to the prettiest season of them all that won't overpower your outfits or cause too much attention at work.

Follow us on Pinterest for more nail art ideas!

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

It's almost time to return to Cousins! The Summer I Turned Pretty season 3 is coming this summer, and Prime Video just gave us a first official look at Belly, Jeremiah, and Conrad. The new episodes will open at the end of Belly's freshman year of college, and in addition to seeing the evolution of our favorite characters, author and co-showrunner Jenny Han says "there are going to be surprises" in the final season. Eek!

Here's your first look at Lola Tung, Gavin Casalegno, and Christopher Briney in The Summer I Turned Pretty season 3, coming to Prime Video July 2025!


Jenny Han says 'The Summer I Turned Pretty' fans are in for a few surprises.

Erika Doss/Prime Video

"There are the things that [fans] know and then there are things they think they know, and then there's going to be, hopefully, things that surprise them," Jenny Han tells Entertainment Weekly. Listen, I am a very proud member of Team Conrad, and seeing how cozy Belly and Jeremiah are in these pics (not to mention the set leak that's definitely not in the third book), I'm starting to wonder if Prime Video is teasing I should switch teams.

But no matter which team you're on, Lola Tung promises the season won't let you down.

Team #JellyFish will get their time this season.

Erika Doss/Prime Video

"The one thing I've always admired about Jenny is that every season and every decision about what's coming next is purely to serve the story," Lola says. "She's never going to do anything that doesn't make sense for the story. It's all about this beautiful world she's created and giving the fans something really, really special and giving us something really special to work with."

And that includes some sweet moments which Jeremiah and Belly, who "are, at their core, best friends," Lola adds. "That relationship is something that's so special and so unique to them, so it's exciting to see this season and how their relationship blossoms."

And 'The Summer I Turned Pretty' images also feature Conrad.

Erika Doss/Prime Video

But don't worry Conrad fans, we also get a look at the elder Fisher brother who "we know that he went to Stanford, and so he's continuing on his journey to become a doctor, as you can see from that white coat," Jenny says. "I think people won't be surprised to see that."

Keep reading for more images from The Summer I Turned Pretty season 3!

Erika Doss/Prime Video

Jenny Han also teases this image is actually a flashback, "so do with that what you will." BRB, I'm off dreaming of a beach vacation. I also can't help but point out the warm color grade of this season! The golden look makes everything feel warmer and more magical — and offers a youthful glow as Belly gets older.

Erika Doss/Prime Video

But for those of us who care more about Steven and Taylor (Sean Kaufman and Rain Spencer) than the main love triangle, we got this single crumb from the new images. And I'm more than happy about it, thank you very much.

Erika Doss/Prime Video

Belly (Lola Tung) gets cozy on campus in a hoodie and sunglasses.

Erika Doss/Prime Video

And Belly and Jeremiah (Gavin Casalegno) get cozy with each other at a party.

Erika Doss/Prime Video

But they work as hard as they play! I have this exact outfit Belly's wearing, and you best believe I'm adding it into my fashion rotation.

How many episodes will The Summer I Turned Pretty season 3 have?

Erika Doss/Prime Video

Great news! The Summer I Turned Pretty season 3 will have 11 episodes instead of 7 or 8 like seasons 1 and 2 did. Stay tuned for the official release schedule.

Who's in the cast?

Prime Video

The Summer I Turned Pretty season 3 cast features all your favorites:

  • Lola Tung as Belly Conklin: a beach-loving volleyball player who's always dreaming of summer.
  • Christopher Briney as Conrad Fisher: Belly and Steven's lifelong friend who Belly's always had a crush on.
  • Gavin Casalegno as Jeremiah Fisher: Conrad's sunny younger brother.
  • Sean Kaufman as Steven Conklin: Belly's older brother.
  • Rain Spencer as Taylor Jewel: Belly's best friend.
  • Jackie Chungas Laurel Park: Belly and Steven's mom and Susannah Fisher's best friend.

Meet The Summer I Turned Pretty Season 3 Cast before the new episodes air on Prime Video this July!

Beauty appointments are at the top of my self-care list, but you there's one question that's always sat in the back of my mind. Do I have bad habits that are annoying to my hairdresser or am I a "good" client? This could stem from being listening to retail horror storiesand fighting the urge to gasp in horror at customers' behavior.

No matter what it is, it's apparent hairdressers aren't a fan of everything you and I may do before, during, and after our appointments. Out of curiosity, I asked the following hairstylists about their biggest pet peeves:

Learn which bad habits you should stop doing if you want to stay in your hairdresser's good graces!

1. Coming To Your Appointment After Being At The Gym

Madison Kinsley/Dupe Photos

I'm thoroughly surprised that people do this because I know how sweaty I get after a workout. But Jorge's had clients who've done this and it's not a good look, according to her. "Yes your service begins with a wash, but seriously," she asks. I don't think you need a reminder, but you might want to take a shower after your gym or pilates session out of courtesy for your hairdresser!

2. Arriving Late To Your Appointment 

Most hairdressers have have a grace period for clients because they understand things happen, but that's not your cue to take advantage of their kindness. For Durante, "being late is the primary issue." Want to know why? He says it's because this "backs up all the appointments and creates a domino effect of issues that can often be hard to catch up on."

3. Acting Like An Armchair Stylist 

cottonbro studio/Pexels

Hair appointments should be collaborative, yes, but not to the point where your hairdresser feels like you're trying to do their job for them. Jorge says, "The most nerve-wrecking thing a client can do while they are in the chair is constantly second guess what the stylist is doing or changing their minds about their service. Clients need to trust their stylist and not back seat drive every snip."

If you're guilty of doing this, try to be mindful of how this makes your hairdresser feels. They're providing a service, but they're still human.

Jorge also says, "Sometimes, I just want to give the client the scissors and let them cut their own hair. J/K.."

Rene Terp/Pexels

It's something Durante doesn't care for either. "We always encourage our clients to give as many details as possible with how they want their hair to be cut, colored, and/or styles, but directing the service and telling the hairstylist exactly how to do their hair in step-by-step format is unnecessary when seeing a professional," he states.

Should you be afraid to talk to your hairdresser? Not at all, but it's unhelpful if you think you're more equipped to do your hair while sitting in their chair. "We appreciate a client's direction as it is their look, but critiquing and instructing us on how to reach the end goal is beyond frustrating. Quite frankly, we have spent years handling requests and know exactly how to achieve your desired look based on the tools we've gathered throughout the years," Durante adds.

5. Waiting To Share Your Dissatisfaction

Antoni Shkraba/Pexels

Another annoying behavior stems from something we've all done at least once. Durante says, "When completing a cut or color based on an inspiration photo, the client says they "wanted to go a different direction" - but only tells us once the service is completed."

At this stage in life, I realize the importance of communicating with my hairdresser throughout my appointment. People can't read minds so it's something to think about if you typically wait until your service is over to complain.

6. Covering Your Hair Once It's Been Styled

Melissa Romee/Dupe Photos

According to Jorge, it's annoying when "after receiving a hair cut and styling, the client wears a hat or covers their hair." I'm always excited after a hair appointment because it's a chance to enjoy and show off my new refreshed look, but I guess some people feel the need to "hide" their style.

Her other pet peeves? "Washing their hair with a cheap, sulfate shampoo that ruins their color. Going for a swim after a keratin treatment only to dry their hair afterwards and realize a giant frizz bomb where perfectly straight hair once was."

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1923 season 2 premieres on Paramount+ February 23, and Michelle Randolph (who plays Elizabeth Dutton in the cast) is "so excited" for you to watch the new episodes — and she's been keeping up with all your fan theories!

"There are some crazy ones. I feel like the biggest fan theory thing is the family tree," she tells Brit + Co exclusively. "I've seen many different family trees and so it's like, 'OK, which one's accurate?' I actually drew my own at one point."

Here's what Michelle Randolph had to say about 1923 season 2, and the Dutton family tree, in Brit + Co's exclusive 1923 interview.

Michelle Randolph teases '1923' season 2 finally gives us answers to the Dutton family tree.

By the end of season 2, Michelle Randolph says "we might be able to fill in some blanks" in the Dutton family tree, which is a very hot topic for internet users! "I had to make my own [family tree] because all of the ones I saw on the internet were like — every single one was different. I was like 'I'm confused.'"

The Dutton family is made up of incredible cast members like Brandon Sklenar, Harrison Ford, and Helen Mirren, and Michelle reveals that the cast are just as close as their characters.

"There's a giant group chat called Giddy Up, which started during cowboy camp of season one," she says. "A cute little name, and I think I mean we all were on location in Montana and all in the same hotel, and we would get dinners after [filming], so I think even though our characters are very different and in different story lines like we all really did bond, which was really helpful to have each other throughout the chaos of of shooting a show."

The actress also says Elizabeth would connect with her 'Landman' character Ainsley.

Frazer Harrison/Getty Images

And if you're a tried and true Taylor Sheridan fan, you've probably picked up on the fact that Michelle isn't just in 1923 — she also has a starring role as Ainsley Norris in Landman! But would Elizabeth and Ainsley get along if they met in an alternate universe?

"That would be a fun thing to witness. I think they would," she says. "They're very different, but the similarities between them is they're both young women who are finding their place in this world and I think that they both actually look at the world through very bright eyes and have a lot of hope, which is an interesting correlation between the two of them. I think Elizabeth has gone through so much more than Ainsley obviously, so there might be a difference there, but I think they would get along."

Check out the 8 Compelling Historical Fiction Books For 1923 Lovers and read our interview with Julia Schlaepfer where she teases the Spencer and Alex's future.

This interview has been edited for length and clarity. And this post has been updated.

Leaders in the matcha industry are predicting a matcha shortage this spring. Sparked by a huge surge in demand, it’s possible that your go-to drink could be affected.

Here’s everything you need to know about this season’s matcha shortage.

Nataliya Vaitkevich / PEXELS

Per The Japan Times, increased demand for matcha powder put an “unprecedented strain” on the tea industry last year, and the same effect is predicted to take place in 2025.

According to the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, Japan saw a 185% increase in matcha production from 2010 to 2023 in order to keep up with demand from cafes and home baristas around the world, The Japan Timesreports.

Cup of Couple / PEXELS

Seeing that over half of Japan’s matcha is exported internationally, matcha lovers are looking toward the country for their green tea fix. Search interest for matcha has nearly quadrupled over the past 5 years, and it shows no sign of slowing down.

Olena Bohovyk / PEXELS

This year, mostly organic matcha strains will be affected by the shortage, though lower-grade varieties could face the same issues if consumers begin reaching for them in favor of organic offerings. While top-tier, organic strains like ceremonial-grade matcha are known for being sweeter and smoother, the lower-grade kinds like culinary-grade matcha are noticeably more bitter and don't have the same vibrant color.

Charlotte May / PEXELS

Matcha can only be harvested in the springtime, so though a shortage may be happening now, there’s hope for increased supply in the near future. This year’s harvest will start in April.

Polina Tankilevitch / PEXELS

Even though production will ramp up, Jason Eng of Kametani Tea in Japan, a company that produces matcha for beverage companies around the world, says: “This year will be an interesting one. We haven’t hit a point yet where we’re going to run out, but it’s going to be really tight this autumn – not just for us but for everybody. The demand is off the charts.”

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