Graduation Anxiety Is Real. Here’s How to Deal.

Use A Gentle Cleanser

Since your skin is more sensitive during your period, it’s important to use a face wash that will help to get rid of grime without stripping your skin of its natural oils. If you’re looking for a gentle and affordable cleanser that does the job, I've used CeraVe’s Foaming Facial Cleanser for years. Not only does it contain multiple ceramides that help to restore your skin barrier, it also contains niacinamide – an ingredient known to help reduce excess oil production in the skin.

Hydration Is Key

Have you ever noticed your skin looking more dull or lifeless whenever your period comes around? This is because low estrogen levels during the menstruation part of your cycle makes your skin more prone to water loss, which causes dehydration and dryness. During this time, you can counteract this effect by incorporating a hydrating serum or moisturizer into your skincare routine. I recommend The Inkey List Hyaluronic Acid Serum. Its titular ingredient, hyaluronic acid, acts like a sponge by attracting water on the skin and retaining it, which will keep your skin feeling plump, smooth, and hydrated. But what makes this serum really stand out is its other active ingredient – Matrixyl 3000 peptide – that, when combined with hyaluronic acid, can help build firmer, youthful-looking skin over time.

Niacinamide Is Your Best Friend

Earlier, I mentioned how niacinamide is primarily used as an ingredient in skincare products to help balance your skin’s oil production. However, if you look at the ingredient label on the packaging for most of these recommended products, niacinamide will probably be listed – and for a good reason. This power-packed ingredient is a form of vitamin B3 that can help boost skin hydration, reduce redness and uneven skin tone, and combat damage that can cause visible signs of aging. I would suggest using a serum with niacinamide as one of its main ingredients — like the Good Molecules Niacinamide Serum — because it is formulated with higher concentrations of this ingredient that can penetrate deep into the skin.

Use Spot Treatments Or Pimple Patches On Problem Areas

As tempting as it is to use your fingers or a comedone extractor to pop any zit that appears during your period, trust me when I tell you…don’t do it! Not only will picking further inflame your skin, you can also spread acne-causing bacteria across your skin that will make your breakouts even worse. If you’re an avid pimple-popper like myself, save yourself the trouble and cover your spots with hydrocolloid pimple patches to help them heal. My favorite patches are the Peace Out Acne Healing Dots; they're formulated with salicylic acid and aloe vera leaf extract, which help to reduce irritation and minimize breakouts.

If You Need To, Use An Exfoliating Peel Or Toner – But Don’t Overdo It

Even if you’re taking every step possible to take extra care of your skin during that time of the month, sometimes your skin can feel more gritty and grimy than usual. Exfoliating cleansers, scrubs and serums are often advertised for everyday use, but if you’re not careful, you can end up with angry and irritated skin.

If you absolutely have to exfoliate, play it safe by using a mask or a toner once or twice a week. For a mask, I recommend trying the Versed Doctor’s Visit Instant Resurfacing Mask, and for a toner, I suggest using the Peach Slices Acne Exfoliating Toner. Both products contain a combination of AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids) and BHAs (beta hydroxy acids) that remove dead skin cells from the surface while also clearing and preventing breakouts.

Opt For A Lightweight Moisturizer

Hormone changes during your menstrual cycle can cause your skin to produce more oil than usual. While it's important to keep your skin hydrated and healthy by using a moisturizer, thick creams and facial oils can clog your pores and lead to an endless cycle of breakouts. Instead, try incorporating a light gel moisturizer without ingredients like silicones, which are known to congest your skin. My current favorite is the Selfless by Hyram Niacinamide and Maracujá Daily Barrier Support Moisturizer, which contains ingredients like maracujá seed oil and murumu seed butter that help to heal the skin barrier while leaving a silky smooth finish.

Don’t Forget Sunscreen

It doesn’t matter if it’s cloudy, cold, raining, or if the sky is falling — sunscreen is a non-negotiable in your skincare routine, especially during your period. Skin sensitivity is at an all-time high during that time of the month, meaning that you’re more likely to get burnt from UVA and UVB rays. Personally, I like to use lightweight sunscreens, like Krave Beauty’s Beet the Sun, that also contain ingredients to support your skin barrier. Beet the Sun not only has an SPF of 40, but it also has beetroot extract, an antioxidant known to have anti-inflammatory and skin-soothing properties.

You Are What You Eat

Skincare isn't a “one size fits all” situation; what works for you and your skin may not be the right routine for others. However, the food we choose to consume has a direct correlation to our physical health. We all know the annoying and uncomfortable symptoms that come with periods, but fortunately there are certain foods that can help. Fiber-rich foods like broccoli, cauliflower and carrots can help reduce inflammation throughout the body, while berries like blueberries, blackberries and cherries are a great source of antioxidants that help protect your body – including your skin – from free radicals that cause premature aging and chronic disease.

Case #1: You Have Total Control Over The Experience

Group trips often come with compromises — everyone has different interests, budgets, and energy levels. A solo vacation allows you to design the perfect itinerary that fits your needs, whether you want to spend the day hiking in a national park, sipping coffee at a café in Paris, or simply reading a book by the beach, it’s all on your terms.

Solo Travel Idea: Spa Weekend In Sedona, AZ

Located two hours north from Phoenix, this small town is a destination for brides-to-be who want a bit of rest and relaxation and a nature-inspired spiritual boost. As soon as you arrive in town, you're struck by the intense beauty of the legendary red rock buttes that surround the town. There are forests filled with pine trees, junipers, and cacti, as well as a stunning canyon and peaceful creek. While Sedona is known for its natural beauty, it's also a hotbed of activity. There are hikes, bike rides, wild jeep tours, spa treatments, spiritual readings, and a delicious sprinkling of restaurants. Check out Mii Amo for an all-inclusive wellness getaway. Here you’ll find casitas with private balconies, in-room fireplaces and soaking tubs, as well as a new restaurant called Hummingbird. The Hummingbird menu includes items like salmon ceviche, duck breast, poulet rouge, and gluten-free and vegan selections. Daily guided meditations and special presentations and ceremonies (Canyon Bathing, anyone?) create an ideal environment to slow down and refocus. At the Enchantment Resort next door, you’ll find additional amenities you can use while exploring the surrounding 400 miles of trails.

Case #2: Enjoy A Moment Of Solitude Before Marriage

This is an exciting time as you prepare to start a new life with your partner, but a solo vacation gives you one last opportunity to focus entirely on yourself. Use this time to reconnect with who you are as a person, separate from the roles and responsibilities that come with marriage and growing a family.

Solo Travel Idea: Kiss A Stingray On The Cayman Islands

From chic hotels and villas to luxury wellness experiences, this destination is the prime spot for a solo bride-to-be to unwind. Stay at the Palm Heights Hotel, a picturesque beachfront stay located on Grand Cayman's Seven Mile Beach, one of the Caribbean’s most visited stretches of white sand. Enjoy pool time under the iconic yellow umbrellas at Tillie’s, and visit the Garden Club spa next door for everything from rejuvenating facials to body care and massages. You can also opt for Hotel Indigo, which is just steps away from Seven Mile Beach and features a rooftop bar, Pom Pom. Take a leisurely morning horseback ride or swim with Spirit of the West. Kiss a stingray for seven years of good luck at Stingray City, and make time for some R&R at VIDA through rooftop yoga sessions, spa treatments, organic cooking classes, paddle boarding, and more!

Case #3: No Friend Drama

Bachelorette weekends often involve managing group dynamics, which can be stressful and take away from the fun. Drama, misunderstandings, or conflicting schedules can make the trip more about managing others than celebrating you. By going solo, you can enjoy peace and quiet, focusing on your personal joy and relaxation without distractions.

Solo Travel Idea: Take A Chocolate Tour In Vancouver, BC

Vancouver, Canada is the solo trip destination for brides-to-be looking to experience a little bit of everything, from breathtaking nature and wildlife to music festivals and incredible dining. Stay at the Granville Island Hotel, a beautiful boutique hotel located on the waterfront of Vancouver's artisan district: Granville Island. Explore Granville Island Public Market, a bustling market with fresh produce, artisanal goods, and gourmet treats. Take a guided tour by a master chocolatier. Don’t miss local favorites like Lee's Donuts, the seafood at The Lobsterman, and artisanal cheeses at Benton Brothers Fine Cheese. Visit the Federation Gallery or Eagle Spirit Gallery for Indigenous art, and watch glassblowing at the New-Small & Sterling Studio Glass. Vancouver International Wine Festival takes place each spring. British Columbia is also home to seven National Parks, and you can find the city’s live music scene offers everything from alt-country to old-fashioned rock ‘n roll, and experimental jazz.

Case #4: Stay on Budget

Bachelorette parties, especially destination ones, can get pricey when factoring in group accommodations, meals, and activities. A solo vacation allows you to better manage costs, as you can choose exactly what you want to splurge on or save on. You could opt for a luxe hotel stay with a massage, or go for a budget-friendly backpacking trip — either way, the trip is curated entirely to your preferences and budget.

Solo Travel Idea: Cul-indulge in Singapore

Singapore was recently rated as the #1 safest city in the world, making it the perfect destination for brides looking to travel alone before their big day! Brides-to-be can feel secure while exploring the city in nature, getting pampered at top-ranked holistic spas, shopping and trying new cuisines. Stay at the Capella Hotel, rated the #1 best hotel in Singapore and winner of Travel + Leisure World’s Best Award for 2024. Give yourself a full pre-wedding revamp through holistic therapies, such as the Eu Yang Sang TCM Clinic, which provides the ancient remedies of Traditional Chinese Medicine with the balms and tonics sold at Eu Yang Sang. Get some fresh air by exploring the city's parks and gardens, such as the stunning Singapore Botanic Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage Site is the perfect spot for a picnic, a jog or a reprieve from the buzz of the city. There are also outdoor trips such as Pulau Ubin, Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve, and Henderson Waves Bridge. Michelin also awarded more than 50 Singapore restaurants with MICHELIN Stars this year. Try Candlenut, where Chef Malcolm Lee serves up flavors inspired by his grandmother's traditional Peranakan dishes; Labryinth, specializing in New Singaporean cuisine; or Born, offering a blend of classic French cuisine and bold Chinese influences housed in a building that dates back to 1903.

Case #5: Escape The Stress

Bachelorette parties can be super fun and a great way to bond with your girlfriends, but they can also be exhausting and stressful. A solo vacation can offer quiet moments of reflection and adventure that will create memories that are unique to you.

Solo Travel Idea: Holiday Shop In Paris

Here's a bride-to-be getaway, Emily in Paris style. Holiday shop along the Champs-Élysées, where trees are lit up in spectacular red LED lights. While there, grab lunch and a macaron at Ladurée. The cooler temps and smaller crowds make it an ideal time to visit famous landmarks like the Eiffel Tower (catch a great view of it in the Christmas village at Trocadéro), the Louvre, and Notre-Dame Cathedral, where you'll find a Christmas market for the season (also check out the one at the Tuileries Gardens). Parisian cafés and bistros are enticing with warm and comforting dishes like onion soup, coq au vin, and decadent pastries. Sip a café au lait at Café Charlot in Le Marais or dig into the stunning bûche de Noël at the Butterfly Pâtisserie in the Hôtel de Crillon.

Case #6: Break Out Of Your Comfort Zone

Traveling solo pushes you out of your comfort zone. You learn to navigate new places independently, solve problems on your own, and meet new people (easier than you would if you're in your comfort zone with friends). Whether it’s learning a new skill, finding your way through a new city, or gaining confidence in your own company, solo travel can be a truly transformative experience.

Solo Travel Idea: Take A Photography Class In Santa Fe

B+C founder Brit Morin hosted a creative trip to Santa Fe, and it was the perfect weekend. She started the trip with a photography class at Santa Fe Photographic Workshops and explored the city behind the lens. She stayed at the Inn of the Five Graces — think maximalist style and comfort with a Santa Fe twist. Ofc, you cannot visit Santa Fe without a stop at the Georgia O’Keefe’s Home at Ghost Ranch. Some of Brit's personal highlights: Soaking in the Japanese-inspired tubs at Ten Thousand Waves spa and shooting cowboy photos at Mortenson’s Ranch where celebs like Tom Hanks have filmed movies. "We packed in quite an adventure taking in the art, color, food and natural beauty of the city, all while upping our Instagram game. I cannot wait to go back," she said.

Solo Travel Idea: Fall In Love With A Great Book In Portland, OR

Portland is also a great escape for the "bookworm bride-to-be" with Powell's Books, the largest independent new and used bookstore in the world. Plus, the cozy coffee shops around every corner. For the romance reader, stay at the Heathman Hotel in Downtown Portland, which you'll recognize from 50 Shades of Grey. Surrounded by dense national forests with Mount Hood peeking over the city skyline, Portland also offers a serene urban wilderness escape. Explore the exotic Japanese Gardens, museums, and unique downtown. Book a stay at Cascada, Portland's first underground thermal springs and spa and sustainable sanctuary. The eco-friendly property offers on-site dining and group fitness classes. Outside its doors, Cascada is located in the popular Alberta Arts District known for its lively street fairs, hip artisan shops and vibrant mural art scene. From James Beard restaurants, award-winning wellness facilities to urban wineries there is no shortage of itinerary highlights to complete a solorette itinerary. Kann by Gregory Gourdet and OX Restaurant by married couple in the kitchen Chefs Greg and Gabrielle Quiñónez Denton are a must-try. Visit the chic tasting room at the female-owned Division Winemaking Co, book a deep tissue massage at Blooming Moon Wellness Spa, acupuncture at Dragontree Holistic Day Spa or mini Hawaiian retreat atKanani Pearl Spa. Portland is a haven for unique boutiques and vintage shops, including women-owned storefronts like Wildfang and Freeland Spirits.

In The Woods

This is first book in Tana's Dublin Murder Squad series — and it also happens to be her first book she ever published! The story takes place in the summer of 1984 in a small-town suburb of Dublin, Ireland. One night, three children don't come home from playing with their friends. The only thing the police find? A small boy terrified, covered in blood, and unable to remember any of the events that occurred that night.

20 years later, that same petrified boy is now a Dublin detective — Detective Rob — and trying desperately to forget his past (the parts he does remember). Rob is forced to address his past when a young girl is found the exact way he was 20 years ago. Now, he has no choice but to confront what happened...and potentially the killer.

The Likeness

In this Dublin Murder Squad sequel, we revisit Cassie Maddox from book 1, who is forced to go back to her old town because of a — you guessed it — murder. She has to go to a crime scene and help solve the case of a girl who was killed wearing an ID of Cassie's old alias. The story keeps getting stranger and stranger for Cassie as she doesn't know who this woman was, or who killed her.

Faithful Place

Book three in this series follows Frank Mackey, who in 1985 was planning on running away with his girlfriend...only for her to mysteriously never show up. Frank decided it was probably because she didn't want to be with him anymore. Taking her absence as an answer, he left — but little did he know that Rosie never went home either. Years later, her suitcase shows up at Frank's door, and he's forced to go home to discover what happened to her, once and for all.

Broken Harbour

In the fourth installment of this series, we meet Mick — a type A, rule-follower detective on the Dublin Murder Squad. However, when a new murder throws him for a loop, all bets are off. A family in a rich, new development gets murdered mysteriously, and the wife is the only surviving victim. While she's in intensive care, Mick has to figure out why there are dubious and strange factors in the house — like 12 baby monitors focused on holes in the walls, or files being wiped on the family's computer. It's a suspicious case, and what makes it harder is that it's in the neighborhood where Mick, himself, has history. Keep reading to see how this interesting mystery gets solved...or doesn't.

The Secret Place

The fifth book of the Dublin Murder series follows Stephen, a young detective wanting to have his shot at joining the Murder Squad. When Detective Frank Mackey's daughter, Holly, comes into the station with crucial evidence, Stephen realizes this is a crime that he just might be able to solve. Suddenly, Stephen, Frank, and Holly team up to figure out how his Holly's friend group might be up to no good.

The Trespasser

In French's most recent Dublin Murder Squad book, she tells us the story of Young Detective Antoinette, who isn't sure if she belongs in the murder squad. She's trying to make her way through cases, but feels out of place...that is, until a woman's body shows up, and it could be a potential lovers quarrel-gone-wrong!

Everyone's telling Antoinette that it was the boyfriend, but she can't help but think there's more to the story than meets the eye. The woman's friends say she was in danger, and there seems to be a lurking presence in the town that Antoinette can't get away from. Soon, she won't be able to tell the difference from the girl's killer or Antoinette's own stalker.

The Witch Elm

In this new standalone story by Tana French, Toby is out with his friends one night when he's viciously attacked by burglars. The injuries leave him needing care and seeking refuge in the home of his dying uncle, who needs care of his own. The two are able to help each other, until Toby finds a skull in the trunk of the elm tree out back. Detectives start to uncover pieces in this mystery, as Toby comes to terms with the fact that his past isn't what he thought it was...

The Searcher

This book has over 139,000 reviews on Goodreads, so you know it's actually a good read. This book the first of a murder mystery series about Cal Hooper, a retired former detective who buys a rustic house in a small, Irish village after his divorce. Cal thinks he's going to get a new life, to start over and find some peace. But when a young boy recruits him to help find his missing brother, Cal uncovers secrets to this town and it might not be as peaceful as he once thought. Will he get himself — and the young boy — into trouble? Or be able to save the day and his new town? Read to find out!

The Hunter

In part two of Tana's newest series, Cal has finally built a life for himself. He has a girlfriend, a home he's working on, and a young teenager, Trey, that he's trying to help. But when Trey's absent father comes back into the picture, wreaking havoc and mystery, Cal and his girlfriend are trying to do all they can to protect the young girl. However, Trey's dad brought in a millionaire with a mission to find gold in the town, making their efforts much more difficult. Will they be able to protect Trey from her father, or is it too late?

You'll be dying to find out how Tana's most recent novel ends! Don't believe me? Everyone from the Associated Press to The Washington Post has rave reviews for this sequel!