Innehållsförteckning för November 2018 från Cosmopolitan

I have a weakness for: Tough musicians with hearts of gold. My weirdest quirk: I have optional dimples—I can control them. The last time I was nervous: When I came out as gay. Something I used to worry about but don’t anymore: Always showing up to everything. I simply don’t have time not to be authentically enjoying myself. The sexiest thing IMHO: Patience, understanding, and making an effort to communicate. The most pivotal year of my life: The year I graduated high school. I fell in love, and I started working more. My entire perception shifted when life opened up to me as an adult. The most meaningful trip I’ve taken: Japan with my best friends after a bad breakup. Something people get wrong about me: That I’m the PC…

Confessions “When I first moved to the city, I got a job as a bartender even though I had zero experience working at a bar. I lied and told my boss I was a pro at mixing drinks, when in reality I couldn’t make anything more complicated than a vodka soda. If anyone ordered a fancy cocktail, I’d hand them a beer on the house, smile, and explain that we were currently out of whatever liquor they wanted. I lasted three months at that job before management finally caught on.” —RACHEL S., 28, EDITOR, DETROIT, MI “One time I was up for a really important job. When I walked into the office, I thought the person interviewing me was moving in for a hug, so I tried to hug her.…

“I was on a movie date with a guy I’d met online and not even halfway through it, he tried sticking his hand down my shirt and feeling me up. I told him to stop because I barely knew him and there were people literally right next to us. A little later, I had to go to the bathroom, and he told me to meet him at his car when I was done. Because I wanted to enjoy the rest of the movie, I told him no, but in the end, he just wanted to hook up. He drove me home in dead silence and played Beyoncé’s ‘Sorry’ to tell me it wasn’t going to work out. It was so awkward!” —JENNIFER R., 22 “I went out with a man…

Open your Amazon App Tap the camera icon Choose SmileCode Scan to shop!…

Start Slow Before you go all in, play with a more muted version of your favorite hue to make sure you love it, says celebrity makeup artist Georgi Sandev. For example, forest green instead of lime; navy before cobalt. 1. Maybelline New York The Falsies False Lash Mascara in Navy Glam, $6, drugstores Make It Pretty “Ask yourself if you want to enhance your natural beauty or create an edgy look,” says Sandev. If it’s the former, pair your mascara with eye shadow or liner in the same color family—such as blue mascara with purple lids, as our model is wearing below. 2. L’Oréal Paris Voluminous Original Mascara in Cobalt Blue, $8, lorealparisusa.com Wear It Like Jewelry If you’re unsure which color to choose, reach for gold or silver. (Urban…

Hydrate—Inside and Out A parched complexion doesn’t reflect light as well, making it look less dewy. Start by upping your H2O intake. The National Academies recommends women consume about 11 cups a day. (Coffee, juice, and watery foods count!) Then add a few drops of Aveeno Positively Radiant MaxGlow Infusion Drops into your moisturizer or use it alone. It’s powered by a kiwi and soy complex to quench thirsty skin for 48 hours and even skin tone and texture. Get Your Beauty Sleep No matter how booked your iCal is, make sure you’re clocking seven to nine hours of zzz’s per night. (That’s when your skin goes through its most intense repair mode.) Since blue light can interfere with your brain’s release of the sleep hormone melatonin, flip your phone…

Whoa, There! Is it just us, or does it seem like suddenly everyone is getting engaged at lightning speed? Nick Jonas popped the question to Priyanka Chopra after just two months of dating; Justin Bieber and Hailey Baldwin, same (after rekindling their romance); and Pete Davidson put a ring on Ariana Grande’s left hand after four weeks. While fast-track relationships are not new, what makes them so surprising is that they’re at odds with the leisurely way most young people date today. The typical drill: You hang out as friends or hookup buddies before gradually becoming exclusive and taking things to the next level. “Singles want to explore their dating options and make sure they’re picking the right person,” explains biological anthropologist Helen Fisher, PhD, who calls this the slow-love…

Our exhibitionist Instagram culture and the body-positivity movement have birthed a well-lit love child: couples boudoir photography. Partners are stripping down to their undies (or less) in professional studios or at home and getting frisky for the camera. “It’s an exploding niche right now,” says Mike Allebach, owner of Allebach Photography, in North Wales, Pennsylvania. He estimates such shoots will be his top source of income by next year, and he’s probably right. Nearly half of all romantic duos are down to pose for erotic photos, according to a recent survey. “Clients are looking for a more personal and intimate portrait—something that’s just for them,” explains Delia Washington, owner of Boudoir by Delia Renee, in Philadelphia. These steamy images can mark an anniversary or a milestone, serve as hard (wink)…

1 Do you or your partner keep track of how many times you get it on? _YES _NO 2 When you evaluate your sex life, does it feel like a judgment of your overall compatibility? _YES _NO 3 If one of you wants to do the deed and the other says no, does the initiator get mad or upset? _YES _NO If you answered mostly yes, you two may be putting too much pressure on physical action. Pull back from thinking that only sex counts as intimacy, and spend more quality time together outside the bedroom. If you answered mostly no, you and your partner have a healthy amount of space reserved for sex while realizing it’s just one part of your dynamic. Continue talking about your needs and using…

Resist Touching Clinging to bae (or worse, groping him!) won’t win you points with potential mama-in-law. Keep the PDA to a minimum. Agree to Disagree Arguing politics with his kin can make things messy. Instead, discuss with your S.O. after to get on the same page. Watch the Booze Just because his sis is knocking back G&Ts doesn’t give you license to chug wine. Be happy, not drunk. Kill ’Em With Kindness If a relative does not seem to like you right away, go on a charm offensive to wake them up to your awesomeness. Ban Screens Don’t bring your phone to dinner, and keep it out of sight when meeting new people. Be present IRL, not scrolling Insta.…

Ask Dr. Ashton Q Could stress impact how long my period lasts or how bad my cramps are? The hormones your body unleashes when you’re frazzled can absolutely mess with the length of your flow, making it shorter or longer. It’s less clear whether stress affects pain severity. If you notice a big change in the consistency or intensity of your monthly aches (especially if this persists for a few cycles in a row), see your doctor to find out if stress could be to blame or if you should be tested for conditions that may exacerbate cramps, such as endometriosis. Q Can I start to get looser down there from having lots of sex? Nope. Getting it on (a lot or a little) shouldn’t affect the tightness of your…

+ Wanna be extra? Holding a five-pound dumbbell with both hands makes your core work even harder. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, hips and toes facing forward. Place your left fist on top of your right fist, and raise them above your left shoulder, with elbows bent and your torso twisted to the left. Without pausing, sweep your fists down toward your right shin, bending your right knee to 45 degrees and twisting your core to the right. Swing your arms back up toward your left shoulder, twisting your upper body to the left. That’s 1 rep. Do 3 sets of 15 reps on each side, 3 times per week. SNAP NOW, SWEAT LATER! Take a pic of this move to bring to the gym. EMILY’S EXERCISE INSPO PRE-SWEAT…

Join Your Sipping Sisters The potent potion made by aging fermented and distilled grains (wheat, rye, corn, or barley) in wooden casks has been around for centuries — with a mostly male fan base. No longer! A new slew of female distillers and sippers is proving that whiskey isn’t just a dude thing and doesn’t need to be intimidating. Take It Slow If you’ve never had a drop before (Jack-and-Cokes don’t count!), pick a bottle with a lower alcohol content (listed as alcohol by volume, or ABV), says Allison Parc, founder of Brenne Whisky. Ones marked 40 percent ABV, usually the lowest concentration, tend to be softer and more approachable. Drink It Straight Beginners should pour one shot of booze into any kind of glass and drink it neat, which…

GO LONGER Want more than a quick fling with your nail art? Try this pro-approved trick: Reapply a fresh, thin layer of top coat every three or four days to protect your design from chips (we like Chanel Le Top Coat, $28). Less is more though. Too many thick layers will have the opposite effect. SLAY YOUR NAILFIE 1 PREP YOUR SKIN Nail art puts your hands on display. A hydrating cuticle oil (such as CND Solar-Oil, $8.50) sealed with hand cream (try Skinfix Hand Repair Cream, $15) will make your skin soft, glowy, and camera ready. 2 FIND YOUR BEST LIGHT “Lighting makes or breaks a picture,” says mani pro and Instagram queen Steph Stone (@StephStoneNails). “Natural light is the most flattering, so I take my photos during the…

□ I don’t have health insurance.□ I don’t qualify for Medicaid (aka the government program for people with low incomes).□ I have health insurance through my religion-affiliated workplace or school (e.g., I work for a Catholic university or a church). Or it seems like my employer opposes birth control for “moral” reasons.□ I get my BC from Planned Parenthood or another publicly funded clinic.□ I live in a rural area or “red” state.□ I don’t own a car or have access to one.□ I pretty much live paycheck to paycheck.…

Truth: Even with superb insurance, getting your BC can be a pain. “Right now, to get the Pill, women have to find a health-care provider, get an appointment, get a prescription, then go to the pharmacy,” says Kelly Blanchard, president of Ibis Reproductive Health, a nonprofit research organization. But what if you could just wander into a drugstore and pluck it off a shelf? Ibis and its partner, HRA Pharma, are in the process of developing a progestin-only, truly OTC birth-control pill. If it scores FDA approval, it could prompt other companies to develop additional OTC options. There’s just one catch: Politicians disagree about who would pay. Republicans want users to fork over the cost (which Ibis estimates will be $15 or lower per month) using health savings or flexible…

STAY INFORMED Planned Parenthood’s Trump Tracker (TrackingTrump.org) has the latest news on the administration’s attacks on birth control. Go to Guttmacher.org or KFF.org for info on what states are doing to strengthen or restrict access. SPEAK UP “When the government proposes a rule, they must allow public comments online [at Regulations.gov],” says Susan Inman, of the Center for Reproductive Rights. “Anyone can post. We need to create lots of noise around why these policies are harmful.” CONTACT YOUR REPS “Call your senator or congressperson and let them know how you feel,” says Rachel Fey. Even if your elected officials agree with you, “remind them to prioritize birth-control access.” Find contact info at USA.gov/Elected-Officials. VOTE “The best way to make politicians listen is to vote,” says Dawn Laguens, executive vice president…

Scorpio 10.23–11.21 YOUR MONTH Smooth sailing ahead! Your long-term projects will stabilize on the 8th, when lucky Jupiter moves into Sagittarius after a year in your sign. Keep an eye on the dollars and calm seas will prevail. YOUR YEAR You’ve been heading toward cloud-nine happiness (thanks to Jupiter in your sign), and that ascent doesn’t need to end as long as you stay balanced. Counting on only one area of your life to keep you aloft won’t fly. Open up, and good news may come in December. An adventure worth taking will arrive in February, and in April, new love. By September, things will fall into place. Treat Yourself Get a wallet that’s as impressive and boss as you are. Sagittarius 11. 22–12.21 YOUR MONTH PSA: Your swagger is…

It’s been nearly 60 years since the FDA approved the birth-control pill. Today, nearly 10 million women in the U.S. pop this powerful—and empowering—prescription daily. The availability of the Pill (as well as other forms of contraception) has enabled women to take control of their reproductive destinies, which in turn has allowed them to gain economic autonomy…and, dare I say, to relish the pleasures of sex without fear of unintended pregnancy. That’s no small thing. Which is why it’s such a big deal that our reproductive freedom is currently being threatened by an administration that seems focused on depriving women of rights they have enjoyed for decades. If you’re thinking Oh, that will never happen, turn to “Birth Control: Will It Become the Ultimate Luxury?” (on p. 136) to hear…

He Will Rock You “I don’t know how much swagger I have—I’m pretty unassuming. It’s not like after playing Freddie I’ll be wearing leather all the time, but it was fun trying to emulate his swagger and putting that mischief behind my smile and eyes. You see why people were so drawn to him.” Happier Holidays “On Thanks-giving, my mother isn’t satisfied until everyone is stuffed to the gills. It’s a lot of Mediterranean dishes. If you saw, you might be like ‘This isn’t Thanks-giving food!’ And we’re a rowdy bunch. Everyone has a drink…or two or three.” Piano Man “I learned to play piano while doing Bohemian Rhapsody. It’s a nice way of escaping into another headspace. I won’t be performing at parties though. People will say ‘Play all…

Knit + LACE Double the seductive vibes with peekaboo panels and little crocheted shorts. Knit + SATIN When worn with a slip dress, glam boots, and a belt, a slouchy knit morphs into a date-night option. Knit + DENIM Sweaters don’t have to be all sweet and innocent. Add some edge with lace-up jeans, stilettos, and metallic jewelry Open your Amazon App Tap the camera icon Choose SmileCode Scan to shop!…

The touchy-feely fabric looks most luxe in deep hues. Open your Amazon App Tap the camera icon Choose SmileCode Scan to shop!…

Underarm Intel Deodorant isn’t the same as antiperspirant. The former uses ingredients (e.g., essential oils, minerals) to block body odor, while the latter uses aluminum compounds to plug your ducts and actually stop you from sweating. “Many people who switch to natural formulations report an increase in sweating, then a normalizing of sweat levels after a few days or weeks,” says derm Rachel Nazarian, MD. “This isn’t a purge or detox period. It’s your body’s way of regaining the ability to perspire normally.” Reapplying Is a Must Once you swipe on a natural deodorant, it should work right away, says Tara Pelletier, natural deo formulator and cofounder of Meow Meow Tweet. “If it doesn’t, then the formula doesn’t mesh with your body chemistry and you should try another.” However, reapplying…

Layer 1 Essence These liquids replenish the skin after cleansing, says Jenna Walsh, a skin therapist at Heyday L.A. (Think of them as the refreshing ice in your drink.) Saturate a cotton pad with one that has hydrating ingredients such as ceramides or rose water (like Garnier’s), then pat it all over your face. Layer 2 Serum Like your liquor, this is potent! It should contain actives to target specific skin concerns, such as acne, hyperpigmentation, fine lines, or dryness, says dermatologist Dendy Engelman, MD. (Murad’s nourishes and battles wrinkles.) Apply it before the essence dries, as wet skin is more absorptive. Layer 3 Cream A well-balanced bev has a watery component—like tonic or juice—and so does healthy, hydrated skin. Get your complexion’s H2O fix in the form of ingredients…

1 Find seductive inspo. Spend time together looking at photos online—artsy Tumblr erotica, sexy movie scenes—that capture the feel you want, recommends JonGunnar Gylfason of JonGunnar Gylfason Photography, in New Orleans. 2 Google couples boudoir photographers to find one in your area. Peep their portfolio and ask for references from former customers to avoid creeps, then book a consultation. 3 Discuss boundaries with both your partner and the photographer. Explain what you’re comfortable with and which things are too private for the session, says Delia Washington. 4 Make a playlist that brings your sultry sides out to play during the shoot. Try Spotify’s “Feeling Sexy” playlist.…

1 He’s Not a Texter The dude may honestly prefer to speak on the phone. If that’s the case, be sure he actually calls regularly because if he doesn’t, he’s probably not interested. 2 He’s Only Casually Interested Guys text for many reasons, both good and bad. But if a guy yo-yos between giving you attention and periods of radio silence, he’s treating you as an attention fix, not as a serious romantic partner. 3 He Fears Being Trapped in a Never-Ending Convo Sometimes people are in the middle of something and worry if they answer a text, they’ll get stuck in a long chat. Keep texts short and simple, and leave the actual chat for IRL. 4 He’s Legitimately a Busy Person Successful people tend to live hectic lives.…

I hear women can have multiple orgasms right in a row. True? A_ It’s not #FakeNews. “Women absolutely can,” says clinical sexologist Sunny Rodgers. You’ll need to warm up properly to become fully aroused and, eventually, have your first orgasm. (The amount of time this takes is different for every woman, so be patient.) Once you’ve climaxed, shoot for seconds by stimulating an entirely different erogenous spot. So if your first O was from penetration, try pleasuring your external parts with a vibrator for round two. From there, you can even go for thirds or fourths if you want (get it, girl!). But don’t be surprised if you’re spent after two. I’m really not a fan of swallowing. What are my other options? A_ Well, you could make the entire…

1 The Dietitian Caffeine from coffee or tea can move things along. So could herbal ginger tea, if you don’t want a buzz. Also try eating more fiber—specifically, 25 grams per day via fiber-rich foods such as pears and black beans. And don’t forget to stay hydrated. Connie Diekman, RD, director of university nutrition at Washington University in Saint Louis 2 The Gastroenterologist Try hitting the gym. Forty-five to 60 minutes of high-intensity exercise (read: you should be out of breath) can do the trick. If the problem persists for two weeks though, see your doc for a thyroid scan since an underactive thyroid can slow down digestion. Gina Sam, MD, a gastroenterologist in New York City 3 The Holistic Health Pro Studies show acupuncture helps, likely because it can…

As cray-town as it may seem, in the not-too-distant future, you could find yourself being the boss. In fact, according to a recent CareerBuilder survey, 38 percent of U.S. workers already report to someone younger than them-selves, up from 34 percent in 2012. But just because you’re more likely to become the HBIC of your peers or elders, that doesn’t mean you can shortcut the skills needed to oversee a team. And when being at the top is totally new, you might be afraid to ask for help, says Linda A. Hill, PhD, a Harvard Business School professor and the author of Becoming a Manager. You could also develop impostor syndrome, meaning you may not feel like you deserve the clout. To prep for that climb up the career ladder—or…

Tex-Mex Meatballs 1½ lbs. ground beef2 c. shredded Mexican cheese blend½ c. panko bread crumbs2½ T chopped parsley2 cloves garlic, minced1 t. ground cumin1 jalapeño, finely chopped1 large egg1½ t. kosher salt1 t. ground black pepper1 T extra-virgin olive oil½ large white onion, chopped1 15-oz. can crushed tomatoes2 T chopped chipotle chilies in adobo sauce ▸Add beef, 1 cup cheese, bread crumbs, 2 tablespoons parsley, garlic, cumin, jalapeño, egg, salt, and pepper to a bowl. Mix until combined, then form into 2-inch-diameter meatballs. (You should end up with 16.) ▸Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add meatballs in a single layer, and sear 2 minutes per side. Transfer to a plate. ▸Add onion to skillet, and stir for 5 minutes, until soft. Stir in tomatoes and chilies,…

Give your crib a major upgrade with finds from our new CosmoLiving by Cosmopolitan collection. All the glam, all the functionality—all available at Wayfair.com/CosmoLiving.…

Check Yourself in a Big Way The traditional print looks even better when magnified. It’s Raining Men(swear) Inspired by bae’s tailored coat but in a sultry burgundy with a looser fit The New City Slicker Didn’t think an anorak could be sexy? Try one in fiery orange. Go for Shear Strength Trade in your moto jacket for a trucker style with a soft and cuddly lining. Grin and Bear It Upgrade last year’s teddy coat with fringe and patchwork details. Miss Mix-a-Lot Shake things up with a so-wild-it-works print hybrid. The Ultimate Puff Piece You may have to leave the sofa, but you can ’fit yourself in a coat that mimics your fave furniture.…

AFTER THE 2016 ELECTION, Planned Parenthood famously reported a 900 percent spike in IUD interest, as women freaked out about Trump coming for their reproductive rights. They had cause for concern: The administration isn’t just trying to roll back access, it also wants to convince women they shouldn’t get some types of birth control. Many conservatives consider IUDs to be abortifacients (doctors disagree), and now the Department of Health and Human Services is paying—with your taxes—for “research leading to…discontinuing reversible contraceptive methods, such as…intrauterine devices.” Translation: The government wants to get women to take out their IUDs. (“What’s shocking is that this is completely counter to what the medical community is pushing toward,” says Mary Alice Carter, executive director of Equity Forward, a research organization focused on repro rights.) Given…

After Lili Gomez, 22, of Texas, asked for an IUD, her doctor’s reaction was shocking. “She said, ‘You have to commit to 10 years on the IUD, so ask your partner if he’d want kids in that time span,’” recalls Lili. (An IUD can actually be taken out any time.) Provider bias like this is common, says Aisha Wagner, MD. Patients may be given incorrect info or coerced into (or out of) certain types of birth control. If you feel your doctor is judging you or spouting BS, it may be time to switch to a new one.…

Falling These dreams tend to happen when you’re dealing with a letdown in real life. Maybe it’s a breakup with your S.O. or a close friend who didn’t quite follow through with plans. Whatever it is, basically, something is majorly harshing your vibe. Pregnancy If you’re not pregnant and not trying to get knocked up, this dream usually represents a new beginning for you. It could be a fresh work situation or a budding romance rather than a bun in the oven. Missing Teeth This type of reverie often occurs when you’ve said something IRL without thinking it through. You may notice in the dream you’re concerned about how you’ll look sans teeth, which could mean you’re worried about how you appeared to others after you let something slip. Being…

1 Just in time to plan your voting-booth lewk! All proceeds from the MZ Wallace x Lingua Franca tote ($235, mzwallace.com) help female candidates. 2. Chic wearable tech alert: The new Fitbit Charge 3 ($150, target.com) even tracks your period. 3. Calling all edgy romantics. Rebecca Minkoff brings her quirky yet relatable vibes to a gorge sunnies collection ($98 to $158, rebeccaminkoff.com). 4. Mastered HQ ages ago? Try Out of Tune, a music game in the App Store with cash prizes up for grabs if you guess the right 10 songs. Time to get that ’90s-pop-jams knowledge ready. 5 Roar into fall with Chanel’s Ombre Première Longwear Powder Eye Shadows ($30 each, chanel.com.), inspired by Coco Chanel’s star sign, Leo. listen 6. Cool-girl club The Wing launches the No Man’s…

Most erotic novels depict sex with nauseating phrases, like her center, flesh mound, and the heart of her femininity. I don’t want to put you through that. Besides, it’s what happens after sexy times that we really need to talk about. Back in 2010, I had hooked up with a guy we’ll call Eric. Upon exiting the bone zone, we engaged in some small talk. After a couple of beats of silence, homeboy took on a serious tone and said, “Ya know…there are exercises you can do to tone up your thighs.” Record scratch! Nope! Y’all, this is the biggest nope I done noped in my life. Bigger than the nope I feel when I see a grown-ass dude wearing Crocs with socks and bigger than the nope I screamed…

SEASON’S MUST-TRY: Micellar Water Have you heard the news? Garnier SkinActive Micellar Water is the best-kept secret for hydrated, healthy skin. Use it to gently remove makeup (even if it’s waterproof!), as a cleanser (no rubbing required!), and to simply soothe your skin. It’s formulated with micelles, cleansing molecules that act like tiny magnets to magically pick up dirt, oil, and makeup, leaving your face beautifully clean and refreshed—in a snap. Discover the secret why Garnier SkinActive Micellar Water is America’s #1 micellar water that millions of women love—and pass it on! PINK POWER There’s no need to ever scrub off your makeup. This pink Allin-1 formula takes it all off gently—dirt, sweat, makeup (even foundation and mascara)—and it’s great for sensitive skin. BLUE BELLE Can’t remove stubborn waterproof mascara? Try…

Wear One With… Black on Black Bright bags pop off dark solid colors. Fitness ’Fits Elevate your gym attire. Weekend Jeans Sling it crossbody for handsfree strolls.…

1 Put the fire in campfire hair. This boho blend of amber and sandalwood does it just right. Byredo Gypsy Water Hair Perfume, $70, byredo.com 2 IRL your night may just be movies on the couch, but this luscious jasmine-and-nectar mix will make it feel like you’re snuggling seaside. Dior J’adore Hair Mist, $52, dior.com 3 Picture the most gorgeous bouquet of white flowers…. Now imagine they’re woven into your hair. This mist is the scent equivalent. Gucci Bloom Hair Mist, $47, sephora.com 4 Warning: This hypnotic, hydrating berry-and-patchouli blend will make you want to fall in love, just like Paris itself. YSL Mon Paris Hair Mist, $42, yslbeautyus.com 5 This superpowered spray has odor-control technology to neutralize unwanted smells plus green apple and peach notes to create a refreshing…

“This glides on easily, doesn’t have a super-potent coconut smell, and never leaves marks on my clothes.” —MICHELE PROMAULAYKO, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Kopari Coconut Deo, $14, koparibeauty.com “I was surprised how fresh this kept me smelling through a full day of work and workouts—without any irritation.” —MARTA TOPRAN, BEAUTY DIRECTOR Meow Meow Tweet Baking Soda Free Deodorant Stick in Grapefruit, $20 for 3 oz., meowmeowtweet.com “I’m super loyal to Dove Advanced Care Sensitive Antiperspirant, but this fragrance-free deo worked just as well.” —LAUREN BALSAMO, SENIOR BEAUTY EDITOR Schmidt’s Natural Deodorant Fragrance-Free, $9, schmidtsdeodorant.com “Whenever I’ve tried natural deo in the past, it irritated my pits. This one was soothing thanks to rose extract.” —KATE FOSTER, ASSOCIATE BEAUTY EDITOR Love Beauty and Planet Pampering Deodorant, $7, drugstores “At the end of the day,…

Couples who have been together a long time know that sex plays a key part in a romantic bond. When the sexual connection is satisfying, it generally takes up a healthy fraction of the relationship’s energy. But when the sex becomes unfulfilling or scarce or there’s some other sort of issue surrounding it, all of a sudden, it can overshadow so much else (and not in a good way). Why does this happen? Well, the answer is complicated. First, it helps to understand that most people have a very narrow definition of sex. Too often, we think just about the physical act: a little bit of foreplay followed by intercourse that ends with an orgasm. But this description only considers so-called performance and results. In reality, sex is a multidimensional…

Nature Hike “Great way to open communication and get your exercise in too!”—BRANDON L., 30 Tour a Local Brewery “It’s easy to get to know someone while doing something fun and drinking.”—ANDREW M., 22 Apple Picking “I picked apples with my grandma in second grade…. Not my ideal date.”—MATT V., 21 Football Game “Plenty of added entertainment that could take away awkward date silence.”—THOMAS C., 23 Farmers’ Market “Lots of conversation starters, food, and usually sunshine.”—SAM L., 21 What He Wants in a GF A survey of more than 100 men from dating app The League revealed what guys value in a potential partner. 43 PERCENT OF MEN WOULD GET HIGH ON A FIRST DATE. SOURCE: WHATSYOURPRICE.COM…

“It’s about being present in the moment so that you can connect more to yourself and your partner,” says Emily Morse. Start by trying to practice mindfulness by engaging all five of your senses during the experience. “Spend time creating a sensual environment with scented candles, a soft blanket, and calming music,” suggests Morse. Slow down your breathing and make eye contact, and instead of focusing on orgasming, zone in on the various sensations you’re seeing, smelling, touching, hearing, and tasting. Some women say that when they practice this, they can actually feel a transfer of energy mid-sex—sort of like a spiritual release. ▸ Open your Amazon App ▸ Tap the camera icon ▸ Choose SmileCode ▸ Scan to shop!…

WHILE YOU’RE OUT… If you don’t want to ditch drinking altogether (no judgment), alternating spiked bevs with still or sparkling H20 is an easy way to keep your drink intake (and bar tab) in check. It may also prevent you from developing full-blown hangxiety on top of a full-blown physical hangover, says Kash. WHEN YOU STRESS… Got too turnt and did something reckless? Damage control may be in order. But if you’re just ruminating on nagging or minor worries, disengage with a 30-minute endorphin-boosting run or Riverdale binge. “Dissociating helps convince your brain these stressors won’t hurt you,” says Kissen. WHEN YOU’RE TEMPTED TO BLOCK IT OUT… Avoid the “hair of the dog.” Chasing hangxiety with a mimosa will just postpone it until later. “You might feel less anxious in…

Get Spritzy Douse yourself with this tropical-scented spray (it contains mild cleansers to actually get you fresh). Stick It to Your Sweaty Face Dissolve all that grime with an oil-fighting rosewater-and-bamboo solid face wash—it’ll never leak during your commute. Downsize Your Deo Besides being adorbs, this mini antiperspirant uses sweat-activated technology to trap odor and replace it with a sweet and fruity smell. Whip “Gym Hair” Into Shape This compact brush breezes through knots for pain- and damage-free detangling, and it comes with a genius cover to protect its flexible bristles. Say GTFO to Grease These hair-blotting sheets soak up oil and sweat like a boss, thanks to super-absorbent activated charcoal. Don’t Leave a Mark Extra-sturdy hair rings keep your locks in place as you werk while leaving no dents…

Shake Up Your Snack Game With SunChips® Grab a bag of SunChips® for a delicious, 100% whole-grain snack that will bring out your inner “glow”-getter all day. sunchips.com Meet the Pure Silk Contour 6 Razor Pure Silk now offers a razor that matches the effortless glide created by their shave creams for an entirely new spa therapy experience. Its double-flex head pivots and flexes to adjust to every contour of your body for skin as smooth as pure silk. pure-silk.com Beautify Your Home Cleaning your home regularly with Pledge® Beautify It products enhances wood and other hard surfaces by removing dust while polishing, protecting, and leaving behind a refreshing scent that will impress you and your guests. pledge.com Mix to Perfection …Coming Soon! L.A. Girl introduces the new foundation mixers.…

1 Being “Bad at Math” Means You Can’t Be Good at Money Even if you suck at numbers, counting on your parents or partner to track your budget is a bad idea. No one will care about the future you more than current you, so take the time to learn about your moola. Invest 10 minutes a week to expand your financial knowledge, suggests Jenn Imbeault, vice president financial consultant at Fidelity Investments. Start by following investing platform Ellevest’s online magazine for tips on saving and articles from its cofounder Sallie Krawcheck. 2 Credit Cards Always Lead to Major Debt It’s true that people who ignore their balances can spiral into black holes of high-interest debt, but if you train yourself to spend responsibly, there’s no need to fear the…

For someone who rocketed into the public eye at age 19, cycled (somewhat contentiously) through a number of record labels, and went through a very public, scandalous breakup with the rapper Future, Ciara is remarkably joyful. Levelheaded. Optimistic. Projecting some serious serene goddess vibes. But don’t get it twisted. Although she’s earned it, she’s not content to sit back and relax. “Every day’s a blur,” she says. “There’s so much happening when you have two kids and work.” Right now, the 32-year-old spends most of her days in Bellevue, Washington, where she and her hottie Super Bowl–champ husband, Russell Wilson, live with her 4-year-old son and their 18-month-old daughter. She splits time between family days at the Seattle Seahawks’ training camp and basking in the success of “Level Up” and…

Condoms MAX COST $2 each POPULARITY 5.5 million users Before it gets near your V, slip one of these pouches securely over his P to block sperm from entering you. They’re not the most fail-proof method, but they are cheap, lack side effects (unless you’re allergic to latex), and also prevent many STIs. ALL POPULARITY FIGURES ARE BASED ON 2014 GUTTMACHER INSTITUTE DATA OF USERS IN THE PAST MONTH Shot MAX COST $400 per year POPULARITY 1.5 million users The progestin shot (four times a year, in your butt or arm) keeps sperm and eggs from comingling. It’s easier than the Pill, but if you get it two or more weeks late, it may stop working. Side effects can include loss of bone density and dizziness. Pill MAX COST $600…

1 Use technology. When getting a script is tough, apps and sites like Nurx, The Pill Club, Pandia Health, Planned Parenthood Direct, and Prjkt Ruby can prescribe and send the Pill, the patch, or the NuvaRing to you (with free shipping). In most cases, you just complete an online questionnaire, text or video-chat with an MD, or transfer an existing Rx. Many apps accept insurance and offer automatic refills. The downsides: They don’t do IUDs or other long-lasting methods and aren’t available in every state. For more info, check out Bedsider.org, an online birth-control support network run by Power to Decide. 2 Talk to a human. If you get slapped with out-of-pocket costs for birth control, it pays to pick up the phone. “Look at mail or e-mails from your…

If your company cuts BC coverage, “gather colleagues and meet with HR,” says Suzanne de Janasz, PhD, a visiting professor of management and conflict resolution at George Mason University. She suggests the A-C-E approach, popularized by persuasion expert Kathleen Kelley Reardon, PhD. “A is for appropriateness,” de Janasz explains. “Similar companies offer free coverage, so yours should too. C is for consistency with the company’s focus on employee well-being. And E is for effectiveness. Canceling coverage will be pricey when more employees get pregnant.”…

COVER James Perse, jamesperse.com. Marc Jacobs, marcjacobs.com. Seril, seril.com. David Yurman, davidyurman.com. Dior, dior.com. SUBSCRIBER COVER Kathryn McCarron, kathrynmccarron.com. GET INTO IT! PAGE 7: Fendi, fendi.com. What Goes Around Comes Around, whatgoesaroundnyc.com. Streets Ahead, 323-277-0860. El Paso Booty, santiag.fr.com. Closer by Wwake, totokaelo.com. Above + Bolo, etsy.com. Chrome Hearts, Chrome Hearts, NYC. KEEPING UP WITH CIARA PAGE 116: Stella McCartney, People’s Boutique. Versace, versace.com. PAGE 117: Kathryn McCarron, kathrynmccarron.com. PAGE 118: Tom Ford, tomford.com. Dior, dior.com. PAGE 121: Schott, elpasobooty.fr. Heron Preston, heronpreston.com. Sarah Chloe, sarahchloe.com. Maybelline New York, maybelline.com. SEXIEST MANIS EVER PAGE 124: Chanel, chanel.com. PAGE 126: CND, ulta.com. Skinfix, ulta.com. PAGE 127: Essie, essie.com. OPI, amazon.com. Essence Cosmetics, essencemakeup.com. Deborah Lippmann, deborahlippmann.com. YSL, yslbeauty.com. Sally Hansen, sallyhansen.com. Chanel, chanel.com. NYX Professional Makeup, nyxcosmetics.com. Duo Lash, cvs.com. Dior, dior.com.…

MOSTLY A’S Still Pining Let’s be real—the love is still there, at least on your end. Try keeping the focus on just yourself (versus getting back together with him) and you’ll end up not only surviving but thriving. MOSTLY B’S Ruled by Resentment You might not want him back, but you kinda want him to suffer. All that aggression could prevent you from actually letting go. It’s time to sit down with yourself, your squad, or maybe a therapist to sort this ish out! MOSTLY C’S Done and Dusted Congrats, girl. You’ve moved on and given yourself the all clear to enjoy the single life or find new love. If the split was amicable, it’s okay to still cheer him on, if only from the comments section.…