Beauty Gemma Glass Beauty Gemma Glass
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When a Skincare Routine Becomes Another Performance Review

By the time I reach the bathroom sink, I would quite like to be finished for the day. I have answered the emails, cooked the dinner and found the small sock whose disappearance briefly threatened the stability of the whole household. Then I pick up a bottle and discover my face has apparently scheduled a performance review.

There is a correction to do. Something needs repairing other than my boiler. Prevention too, apparently. I have barely taken my earrings off and already there are outstanding action points…

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Beauty, In Depth Essays, Culture Maria Beauty, In Depth Essays, Culture Maria

Future Shock Is The Key To Understanding The Meta-Crisis In The Beauty Industry

…“Future shock is a time phenomenon, a product of the greatly accelerated rate of change in society. It arises from the super imposition of a new culture on an old one. It is culture shock in one’s own society. But its impact is far worse” (Toffler 1970, 4). When his book was first published, the insights were revolutionary. Today we are living - almost word for word - many of the scenarios he predicted would arise as a natural consequence of our inability to adapt to the pace and direction of innovation…

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Beauty, Curated Lists Maria Beauty, Curated Lists Maria
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Five Ideas For Skincare Enthusiasts In Search Of Something New

When you're no longer a beginner and truly have skincare as a hobby, you quickly realize that the advice and discussion across the internet is often written for complete novices, limited to problems solving, or just another excuse to sell products. We don't need another explanation about the virtues of wearing sunscreen or Vitamin C serums. Niancinimide and exfoliating are not new and revolutionary. So where does a beauty enthusiast go for more advanced consideration of skincare topics? If it feels like you've exhausted all the quality skincare content available online, this curated list is for you.

These new ideas are a jumping off point, much like the rabbit holes shared in our last curated list (which includes a must watch presentation on the future of Trend Analysis). The resources below help answer the question, “What next?”, when you're in need of fresh skincare inspiration…

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Beauty, Culture, In Depth Essays Maria Beauty, Culture, In Depth Essays Maria

Process-Striving: A New Form of Status Competition In The Social Media Era

In every creative endeavor, there is a “behind the scenes” component that is less refined than the end result - a messy kitchen before a stunning meal, or the awkward rehearsals before opening night. Beauty routines, diets, workouts, planning/life management systems, and cleaning schedules, are just a few examples of the essential “behind the scenes” aspects of womanhood. These processes are integral to excelling at the roles we play in our day-to-day lives but until recently they were intentionally concealed from public view and open discussion.  The allure of well-executed womanhood…

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