Confession: I sometimes lose sleep the night before hosting a dinner party. I blame it on a combination of excitement and nerves, but wow, hosting can be stressful. As part of my mission to solve my own host-xiety, I’ve compiled a list of delicious, easy, and inexpensive meals for large groups that I always return to—and that every guest will love.

These recipes solve the dilemma of deciding what to cook for large groups, but avoid the hefty price tag that can often come with group dinners. As we know, cooking for more than four people can get real pricey, real fast. The bottom line? Impressive doesn’t have to mean expensive. These meals utilize grocery store staples, store-bought ingredients, and affordable meats—without sacrificing flavor or quality.

Read on for my go-to inexpensive meals for large groups, plus Camille’s tips for cooking for a crowd.

Featured image from our LA lunch with Chef Camilla Marcus.

Camille’s Top Tips for Cooking for a Crowd

Do all possible prep in advance so that you can enjoy the evening, too. Anything that can be made beforehand is key. It takes the stress out of your day-of prep and makes sure you get to enjoy the party yourself. Soups, sauces, and salad dressings can be made entirely in advance so when the clock strikes happy hour, you’re ahead of the game. It’s also helpful to do any knife work in advance and store your chopped goods in the fridge. That way, when it’s time to cook, you’ve already done a lot of the grunt work.

Choose crowd-pleasing dishes that everyone can enjoy. When you’re cooking for a group, it’s important to consider your guests’ dietary needs. Dairy-free, gluten-free, vegetarian, and/or vegan recipes fare well for large groups. That way, you can ensure everyone is able to savor the moment together. Comforting foods are also always a hit at dinner parties. If it’s something you love, the odds are high that your guests will love it, too!

Leverage batch cooking and “build-your-own” components. Sheet pan recipes, informal spreads, and topping bars are heroes when it comes to assembly. Prep the main components and let your guests build their own finished pieces. Not only does this make your job easier, but it’s a great way to spark conversation and creativity!

Chicken Recipes for Large Groups

Grilled Yogurt-Marinated Chicken with All the Herbs

Why We Love It: Camille took this classic method of preparing chicken and turned the volume up with a twist. Marinating chicken in yogurt tenderizes the meat, lending tons of flavor, tenderizing the meat, and creating a delicious crust. It makes for the perfect inexpensive meal for a large group because you can simply scale up as needed, marinate ahead of time, and throw your chicken on the grill. No stress!

Hero Ingredient: This recipe is about as easy and simple as it gets. With so few ingredients, what’s included all plays a key role. That being said, the lemon infuses your marinade with fresh, summery flavor.

Serve With: The Best Simple Green Salad and a crisp, cold glass of rosé

Chicken Tortilla Soup

Why We Love It: Soup is one of the best things to serve to large groups because it’s inexpensive and most of the cooking time is hands-off. Plus, as long as you have a big enough pot, it’s easy to double. To this day, this Chicken Tortilla Soup is one of Camille’s most popular Instagram recipes, so if you haven’t made it yet, this is your sign. It’s the perfect serve-yourself recipe for big gatherings as well.

Hero Ingredient: The homemade tortilla strips are next-level.

Serve With: Skillet Vegetarian Cornbread Stuffing

Lemony Sheet Pan Chicken With Artichokes and Spring Veggies

Why We Love It: Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs get the low and slow treatment in this simple sheet pan recipe. They’re roasted alongside artichokes, red onions, cherry tomatoes, garlic, lemon slices, and green olives until golden brown and delicious. The best part? All you have to do is throw everything on a sheet pan and roast for an hour. This is one of those recipes that’s so much more than the sum of its parts.

Hero Ingredient: If you think slow-roasted chicken is bland—think again! The key is to crank up the oven for those last ten-or-so minutes to crisp up the skin.

Serve With: This is a complete sheet pan dinner on its own, but if you really want to round it out, these crispy potatoes are perfect.

Lime-y Chicken Tacos With Jicama, Avocado, & Mint

Why We Love It: These tacos are one of my favorite Camille Styles recipes for the simple prep and flavors that are anything but. You can make the chicken beforehand and chop all of the veggies in advance. All you have to do is char the tortillas and serve. You don’t even have to build the tacos yourself—let the guests assemble their own.

Hero Ingredient: The lime-y chicken is affordable and addictive.

Serve With: Mexican Chopped Salad with Honey-Shallot Vinaigrette and Camille’s Classic Margarita

The Best Roast Chicken With Tomatoes, Lemons, & Cilantro Salsa Verde

Why We Love It: This roasted chicken recipe yields the juiciest bird with the crispiest golden brown skin. And all you need is olive oil, salt, pepper, and a few supporting actors to make that dream a reality. The cherry tomatoes, garlic, and lemon slices that roast alongside the chicken create the most amazing sauce that flavors the bird beautifully. Then, a salsa verde elevates the entire creation even more.

Hero Ingredient: The garlic caramelizes to pure perfection and is delightfully spreadable.

Serve With: Make-Ahead Vegan Mashed Potatoes, Roasted Root Vegetables with Gremolata and Whipped Feta, or Apple Walnut Salad

Pomegranate Molasses Chicken

Why We Love It: Joe Holm and Mike Hondorp shared this special recipe with us that’s always featured at their Sunday Suppers. This comforting tradition celebrates the simple joy in gathering friends together for a meal. A main dish they often feature is Pomegranate Chicken with a Bulgur Wheat Salad. It’s easy to see why. The chicken is marinated in garlic, serrano chile, salt, pepper, and a drool-worthy pomegranate molasses.

Hero Ingredient: When it comes to the bulgur wheat salad, don’t be shy with the mint.

Serve With: Cauliflower Tabbouleh with Pomegranates & Pistachios

Roasted Chicken & Vegetable Confit

Why We Love It: Talk about a showstopper! This Roast Chicken & Vegetable Confit is just as delicious as it is visually appealing. It features Brussels sprouts, fingerling potatoes, green olives, carrots, and copious amounts of garlic and olive oil. The chicken roasts to perfection while the veggies underneath create a decadent sauce all on their own. It’s the hands-off masterpiece your next gathering needs.

Hero Ingredient: Don’t you dare waste any of that liquid gold. Transfer those pan juices into some sort of vessel or pour straight over the chicken before serving—you’ll be glad you did.

Serve With: Kale Italian Chopped Salad and No-Knead Olive & Rosemary Focaccia

Pasta Recipes for Large Groups

Green Sauce Pasta

Why We Love It: An entire serving of greens in pasta form? Sign me up. This silky sauce that lovingly coats each noodle is my new favorite way to eat greens. With only five ingredients, this make-ahead sauce is the king of inexpensive meals for large groups. Simply prep your sauce, choose your favorite noodle and accompanying veg, and top with lots of finishing touches.

Hero Ingredient: Burrata, toasted breadcrumbs, fresh herbs, lemon juice, and flaky salt make excellent topping choices.

Serve With: Grilled Peach and Asparagus Salad with Spicy Pepitas, Cashew Mozzarella, and Goji Chipotle Dressing

Lemony Spring Pasta Salad with Olives, Artichokes, and Bacon

Why We Love It: I love the idea of serving a big bowl of pasta salad for a laid-back gathering. This recipe couldn’t be tastier but isn’t fussy—both impressing your guests while also making them feel right at home. The briny, fruity flavors of the olives and artichokes are pure Mediterranean vibes. And when combined with a little crispy bacon, beautiful things happen. (Feel free to leave the bacon out and keep a bowl on the side for extra sprinkling if you have vegetarian guests.)

Hero Ingredient: Cavatappi is key in this recipe. Its short, twisted shape soaks up all the good green dressing.

Serve With: This is the perfect one-dish meal, but we love starting with this Ricotta with Pears and Honeyed Pistachios and enjoying a sweet and tart Salty Dog cocktail alongside.

Italian Stuffed Shells

Why We Love It: Alison Hersel of Plumcot Farm shared this delicious, easy stuffed shells recipe that’s fit to feed a crowd. The whole thing can be prepped in advance and popped in the oven when the time is right. (Note: The time is always right for stuffed shells). This recipe can also be made gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta shells.

Hero Ingredient: The ricotta is a whole-lotta yumminess.

Serve With: Something light and bright is key alongside this creamy and indulgent main. This radicchio salad lends the perfect bitter contrast.

Rigatoni With Brussels Sprouts & Kale Pesto

Why We Love It: We all love a good pasta dinner party, and this recipe is infinitely customizable and easily doubled. In fact, Camille lays out all of the possible swaps and her best tips for cooking this for a crowd in the recipe post. Aside from the simplicity of making this dish, it has all of my favorite things: rigatoni, pesto, and crispy Brussels sprouts. If you’re looking for a no-fuss, show-stopping pasta for a large group, this is it.

Hero Ingredient: The caramelized, crispy, garlicky Brussels sprouts taste even more indulgent than the noodles.

Serve With: Because this is a one-pot meal, any of these refreshing kombucha cocktails would bring a nice, funky twist to the experience.

Skillet Eggplant Lasagna

Why We Love It: This Skillet Eggplant Lasagna is a cozy one-pot dinner that guests of all ages and palates will love. It’s vegetarian, which is a plus for dinner parties where guests have dietary restrictions, and it’s comforting all the same. The icing on the cake? Store-bought marinara makes prep a breeze.

Hero Ingredient: Since it’s in a skillet, you can place the entire creation directly on the table and serve it up family style.

Serve With: Roasted Heirloom Carrots With Wild Rice And Tahini

Half-Baked Harvest’s Pesto Pasta Alla Vodka

Why We Love It: I was lucky enough to eat this Pesto Pasta Alla Vodka at Camille and Tieghan’s holiday dinner party, and not to be dramatic, but I’ve dreamed about it ever since. I witnessed a bit of the prep and can honestly say that anyone can do it. It’s ready in 30 minutes and can be easily doubled, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special, large-group occasions.

Hero Ingredient: The basil pesto is a unique twist on my favorite pasta sauce.

Serve With: Holiday Jewels Chopped Kale Salad with Mustard-Shallot Vinaigrette

Vegetarian Recipes for Large Groups

Spring Potato Pizza with Asparagus and Burrata

Why We Love It: If you’re not putting potatoes on your pizza, take this recipe as a sign. I’m obsessed with the crispy-creamy texture play created by the melt-in-your-mouth potatoes and burrata set against the thin, crunchy crust. It’s a great option for large groups with a light ingredients list and shortcut tricks to make it all the easier. Talk about hostess with the mostess.

Hero Ingredient: I will never, ever say no to burrata. It does creaminess to perfection.

Serve With: Warm Spinach-Artichoke Salad with Quinoa Crunchies

Cauliflower Tikka Masala

Why We Love It: Minimal effort meets maximum flavor in this vegetarian tikka masala. It has all the flavor of your favorite take-out meal and can easily be scaled up to accommodate any-sized group. Again, it’s great to set out in “serve yourself” fashion and is easy to double as well.  

Hero Ingredient: The Greek yogurt deserves a medal for making this so creamy.

Serve With: Warm naan is crucial—and if you really want to throw a party, this Vegan Flatbread with Roasted Carrot and Red Pepper Hummus is a crowd-pleaser.

Cauliflower Nachos

Why We Love It: This low-carb alternative to traditional nachos is a great inexpensive meal idea for large groups. Swap tortilla chips for cauliflower and load them up with the toppings of your choice. If you’re serving a large group with multiple dietary restrictions, you can simply make the base and let each guest customize their toppings.

Hero Ingredient: The cauliflower has some serious veggie power.

Serve With: If we’re going the lighter, healthier route, this Green Pea Guacamole is perfect.

Butternut Squash Pizza With Arugula & Almond Ricotta

Why We Love It: If I’m invited to a pizza dinner party, 10/10 times I’ll accept. Everyone loves a good pizza, and this recipe will be ready faster than Domino’s can deliver. Plus, it’s bursting with fall flavors from the butternut squash and the sweet/savory balance throughout. If you’re looking to make this meal the main event of an evening, you can also let couples customize their own pizzas.

Hero Ingredient: Homemade almond ricotta, while delish, makes this pizza on the more expensive side. If you aren’t entertaining for a plant-based crowd, feel free to swap out with store-bought whole milk ricotta.

Serve With: A few salads are key. Go all in with this Grapefruit, Avocado, and Golden Beet Salad with Crunchy Chickpeas and Feta or Carrot, Kumquat, and Golden Beet Salad.

Samosa Stuffed Bell Peppers

Why We Love It: Spiced potatoes stuffed into soft bell peppers make for a magical dinner. These are lighter than traditional samosa, but delicious all the same. It’s such an easy make-ahead dinner because the filling will keep overnight. When the time comes, simply roast your bell peppers, stuff them with filling, and let guests top accordingly.

Hero Ingredient: Chutney, fresh herbs, yogurt, and red onions make delicious finishing touches.

Serve With: Chaat Masala Citrus Salad

Pita and Kebab Board

Why We Love It: I love a meal that requires zero plating and no stress—especially when it’s still bursting with flavors like this Pita and Kebab smorgasbord. This is one of those no-recipe recipes that’s perfect for large groups. You can assemble however many boards you want and let guests build their own plates. Or, you can scratch plates altogether and serve these as a casual grab-and-go meal.

Hero Ingredient: Try your hand at the whipped feta with honey. It’s perfection.

Serve With: Try one (or all!) of these three hummus recipes. You won’t regret the extra effort.

Vegetarian Black Bean & Sweet Potato Chili

Why We Love It: Soups are a great way to feed a crowd without stretching your wallet. You get a lot more out of them than you put in, which is pure magic. This Sweet Potato and Black Bean Chili exudes all the fall flavors with stick-to-your-ribs veggies that make it hearty and healthy. It’s loaded with black beans, flavorful veggies, and lots of spices that keep it warm and comforting. Just a quick sauté of those veggies and a slow simmer takes this recipe from pot to bowl in under an hour.

Hero Ingredient: Like with any comforting soup recipe, the key is in the presentation. Lay out all of your toppings and let guests build their own masterpiece!

Serve With: Lean into the cozy vibe with Cheesy Sour Cream and Onion Biscuits

Meat Recipes for Large Groups

Carne Asada Tacos

Why We Love It: These simpler-than-they-seem Mexican-inspired tacos are one of Camille’s favorite summer meals for both weeknights and entertaining. They pack plenty of bold and bright flavor thanks to a zesty marinade and the perfect mix of garlic, herbs, and spices. Plus, they use flank steak—a delicious, but relatively cheap cut that makes for tasty tacos.

Hero Ingredient: Tacos are nothing without their toppings. I opt for plenty of cilantro and salsa verde. And don’t skimp on the guacamole.

Serve With: 4-Ingredient Watermelon Mint Margaritas, please.

Sunday Meatballs

Why We Love It: IMHO—baked meatballs are always one of the best inexpensive meals for large groups. These can easily be doubled and frozen… if you don’t eat them all first. If you have a busy week leading up to a dinner party, make these when you have some downtime and throw them in the freezer until the day comes.

Hero Ingredient: Sun-dried tomatoes add a slight tang to balance out the richer flavors.

Serve With: Pile them on top of some spaghetti, serve on a sub, or simply dunk them in marinara. I personally love them with these Pesto Parmesan Potatoes on the side.

This post was originally published on March 14, 2022, and has since been updated.

The post 22 Delicious Dinner Party Recipes That Won’t Blow Your Budget appeared first on Camille Styles.

Gone are the days of spontaneous trips where I could pack up and head out for a quick vacation. I’ve always prided myself on being a “planner,” but as the mother of two toddlers, organizing a family vacation requires a whole new level of prep. Now that I’m a few years into the game, I can confidently say I’ve got the process down to a science. So when my new-mom friends come to me asking how to plan a family vacation, you can bet I have tips to share.

How to Plan a Family Vacation: Meet the Expert

With summer creeping up, I know many of you might be in the beginning stages of planning your annual summer vacation. And for those of you who may now be dealing with toddlers or children, I can only imagine how overwhelmed you might feel. Fear not! I’m here to share my tips and tricks. With some great advice from the experts at Tiny Travelship, I put together this step-by-step guide on how to plan a family vacation.

If you’re craving a fine-tuned approach to family travel so everyone can have an enjoyable experience, including yourself, consider this your one-stop-shop for answers. Ready to get started? Let’s go.

Your kids’ ages play a significant role in determining the type of vacation that suits your family. When my children were infants, traveling outside of our time zone was not feasible due to sleep training. However, flying with a baby is often easier than entertaining a restless toddler. Understanding your children’s needs at each stage will help you make informed decisions about your vacation plans.

Step 1: Consider Your Children’s Ages

I spoke with Frankie from Tiny Travelship to get some insight into planning a vacation, depending on your child’s age. I love how she breaks it down.

The Parental Pampering Stage (0-6 months)

If there’s one thing we recommend all parents do upon welcoming their tiny bundles of joy into the world, it’s to take some ‘you’ time! This age is the easiest in terms of deciding where to go. Now is the time to make the most of your baby being small, sleepy, and super portable.

The Snacking and Snoozing Stage (6-12 months)

If your Tiny Traveller is in their own room at home, looking for places with separate sleeping spaces can be helpful. There’s nothing worse than being a prisoner to your baby’s naps on holiday. Once your babe has started weaning, having access to a kitchen can also be a godsend.

The Tearaway Toddler Stage (12-24 months)

You’ve now reached the turning point when holidays need to start incorporating your tiny travelers’ needs more—especially when they start talking and verbalizing what they want! Look for places with easy-to-reach activities: local play parks, farms, space to roam, or plenty to do onsite.

The Me, Me, Me Stage (24 months+)

The terrible twos aside, parents can rejoice that tiny travelers are now welcomed into many more kids clubs. Hotels have really upped their game recently with nursery-level offerings designed to educate and inspire.

The Older Years (5 years + Up)

Once your children are no longer toddlers and are approaching pre-teenhood, your options for a family vacation will change quite a bit. However, at this age, you have to consider everyone’s needs since there’s nothing worse than a grumpy kid/pre-teen on vacation. Have a family discussion on where they would like to go and what they’d like to do. Be sure to reiterate that this is a trip for everyone—not just for them—so that they can respect that not all of their needs might be met. 

Step 2: Research and Choose an Appropriate Destination

Now that you have considered your children’s ages, it’s time to decide on a destination. Look for family-friendly locations that cater to the specific needs of children of all ages. Seek recommendations from trusted sources. Consider factors such as child-friendly accommodations, nearby activities, and accessibility.

Step 3: Set a Realistic Budget

Establishing a budget is crucial to ensure a stress-free vacation. Consider all the expenses, including flights, accommodations, meals, transportation, and activities. Research and compare prices to find the best deals and packages. Remember to account for any additional childcare, equipment rental, or travel insurance costs. I’d also recommend checking out several different hotels in the area and comparing them to the price of short-term rentals, like Airbnb. One last pro tip: check your air miles and see where they can take you! 

Step 4: Plan the Logistics

With a destination and budget in mind, it’s time to plan the logistics of your trip. Start by booking flights or arranging for alternative modes of transportation. If you’re traveling by plane, check the airline’s policies regarding traveling with kids, such as baggage allowances and onboard facilities. Consider bringing items to keep your children entertained for long flights, like books, toys, or electronic devices.

Next, book accommodations that are suitable for families with kids. Look for spacious rooms or villas with separate sleeping spaces, kitchen facilities, and proximity to child-friendly amenities. Research local transportation options or consider renting a car for added convenience during your stay.

Step 5: Gather the Necessary Documents

Before your trip, ensure that all family members have valid passports, as some countries may require a minimum passport validity period. Check visa requirements for your chosen destination and apply well in advance if necessary. Keep copies of important documents, such as passports and identification, and store them securely during your travels.

Step 6: Pack Smart and Efficiently

Packing for a vacation with children, especially babies or toddlers, can be overwhelming, but it’s essential to pack efficiently. Create a checklist of essential items for your children, including clothing, diapers, wipes, medications, and any special comfort items they may need. Consider shipping bulky or non-essential items ahead to your destination to minimize luggage and streamline your travel experience.

Step 7: Plan Kid-Friendly Activities

Research and plan activities that cater to your children’s interests and needs. Look for local play parks, farms, museums, or child-friendly attractions near your accommodation. For older kids, try looking into the area’s amusement parks or shopping malls. Take advantage of hotel amenities like kids clubs or childcare services, allowing you to have some much-needed adult time. Seek recommendations from fellow parents or online communities for child-friendly activities at your destination.

The Takeaway

Planning a summer vacation for your family no doubt requires careful consideration and organization, but you can do it! By understanding your children’s ages, researching appropriate destinations, setting a budget, planning logistics, gathering necessary documents, packing efficiently, and organizing kid-friendly activities, you can create a memorable (and, most importantly, enjoyable!) vacation for the entire family.

Proper planning allows you to embark on a vacation catering to your children’s needs and your desire for a relaxing and rejuvenating getaway. Bon voyage!

Head to tinytravelship.com for more parent pleasing properties, all visited and verified by a fellow family. Filter holidays by the age of your children, weaning and sleeping requirements and distance from the airport, as well as the details important to you. Plus, follow on Instagram for daily inspiration, itineraries, insider reviews and the chance to share your own recommendations.

The post Your Guide to Planning a Family Summer Vacation—From a Mom Who’s Been There appeared first on Camille Styles.

What does “wellness” actually mean? It’s a term with a lot of ambiguity—and a highly marketed industry where pretty packaging can obscure unsubstantiated claims and false promises. And while it’s important to approach every wellness claims with a healthy dose of skepticism, not everything is snake oil. Much of what we think of as wellness trends have been around for decades—even centuries—and are important cultural practices rooted in specific communities (hello, tamanu oil and slicked-back buns). But the fluff is eventually cycled out—and what works, stays. That’s why, when you look up “what are ear seeds,” prepare to discover a whole lot of substantiated evidence backing up their efficacy.

Ancient wellness rituals transcend the fickleness of the industry, and many of the remedies found in traditional Chinese medicine endure today. But every few seasons, traditional practices will resurface. Think: the current fascination with gua sha and facial sculpting tools. And now, the beauty zeitgeist has its sights set on acupressure. From acupressure mats to ear seeds, today we’re diving into what’s more than just a wellness trend.

Featured image from our interview with Brandy Joy Smith by Michelle Nash.

Everything You Need to Know About Ear Seeds, According to an Expert

Acupressure is a an ancient remedy for stress and stagnancy. It can relieve your body of pain, tension, poor digestion, headaches, menstrual cramps, insomnia, and even anxiety. The results vary from person to person. But the potential benefits could be life changing. Especially when delivered through wearable, non-invasive devices like ear seeds.

But what are ear seeds? You might have seen them on your wellness bestie, worn like a badge of honor like cupping bruises or a post-facial flush. They’re little pallets arranged on the ear to aid in acupressure without having to lie on a “bed of nails” (though the viral acupressure mat is worth trying). With many doctors on board, you’ll even find that plenty of acupressure products are HSA eligible!

I spoke with Dr. James Walker, a clinical doctor and contracted medical advisor at Welzo.com, about the benefits of ear seeds and what to look for if you’re interested in trying them yourself.

What are ear seeds?

Ear seeds, also known as auricular seeds or ear acupressure seeds, are small seeds or metal pellets that are placed on specific points of the outer ear. They are often used in auriculotherapy, which is a form of alternative medicine based on the principles of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM).

Some studies suggest positive effects for certain conditions, such as pain management or reducing anxiety, but more rigorous research is needed to draw definitive conclusions.

It’s important to note that ear seeds should not be used as a substitute for medical treatment. If you have any specific health concerns, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate course of action.

There are two main types of ear seeds:

• Vaccaria Seeds. These are tiny seeds from the Vaccaria plant. They are the most commonly used type of ear seeds.
• Metal Pellets. Some ear seeds are made of metal, such as stainless steel or gold-plated magnets. These provide a stronger stimulation than Vaccaria seeds.

The Benefits of Ear Seeds

Advocates of ear seeds claim various benefits, including:

• Stress relief and relaxation
• Pain management, such as for headaches, back pain, or joint pain
• Support for smoking cessation or weight loss
• Improved sleep quality
• Reduction of anxiety or depression symptoms
• Enhanced energy and overall well-being

Tips for Application

1. Locate the specific points on the outer ear corresponding to the desired area or condition.
2. Clean the ear and the skin around the chosen points with alcohol wipes.
3. Use tweezers to apply the ear seeds gently onto the points. Apply enough pressure to keep them in place.
4. Massage the seeds gently for a few seconds to stimulate the points.

You can apply ear seeds yourself or with the help of a friend or family member. The process is relatively simple and can be done at home. However, if you have any concerns or specific health conditions, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional or an acupuncturist before using.

Possible Side Effects

Ear seeds are generally considered safe, with minimal side effects. However, some potential risks include:

• Skin irritation or allergic reactions to the adhesive or the material of the seeds.
• Discomfort or tenderness at the site of application.
• Infection if the ear or the skin is not adequately cleaned before applying the seeds.
• Incorrect placement may lead to ineffective results or discomfort.

The Best Ear Seeds to Try at Home

When done right, ear seeds can provide full-body relaxation and relief from physical pain and mental stress. To get started, these are the best ear seeds to try at home.

Every product is curated with care by our editors and we’ll always give an honest opinion, whether gifted or purchased ourselves. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a small commission at no cost to you.

Mount Lai Stainless Steel Reflexology Acupressure Ear Seeds

Mount Lai prides itself on making AAPI beauty rituals accessible, like these ear seeds. Wear multiple of these stainless steel ear seeds at once for maximum, targeted effect.

• Made of: Stainless steel
• Comes with: 60 ear seeds

Mount Lai Stainless Steel Reflexology Acupressure Ear Seeds

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$24

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WTHN Ear Seeds

Get the benefits of a WTHN acupuncture session at home.

• Made of: Gold; Swarovski Crystals
• Comes with: 40 ear seeds; Gold tweezers; 100% latex-free medical grade adhesive

WTHN Ear Seeds

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$45

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Uncommon Goods Acupressure Ear Seed Kit

This kit includes both a set of gold and crystal ear seeds and can be worn for 3-5 days without sacrificing your aesthetic. Follow the included diagram and apply using the included gold tweezers to target specific acupressure spots.

• Made of: Gold; Swarovski Crystals
• Comes with: 40 ear seeds, Gold tweezers

Uncommon Goods Acupressure Ear Seed Kit

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$45

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Vie Healing The Foundation Kit

This comprehensive kit comes with a body map to guide your application according to your wellness goals.

• Made of: 24K Gold
• Comes with: 20 ear seeds; Ear seed spoon

Vie Healing The Foundation Kit

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$44

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Kanjo Acupressure Ear Seeds

Gently massage these stainless steel ear seeds twice a day to boost their effect and bolster your healing.

• Made of: Stainless steel
• Comes with: 40 Ear seeds; Tweezers

Kanjo Acupressure Ear Seeds

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$50

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The post What Exactly Are Ear Seeds? A Doctor Shares Tips for At-Home Use appeared first on Camille Styles.

Over the years, I’ve realized that some of my fondest childhood memories of summer involve great food enjoyed at family gatherings. But it goes without saying that summer meals to feed a crowd aren’t always easy to throw together in a pinch. That’s why my crockpot has become a kitchen staple when it comes to gatherings. And yes—that’s true even in the summer. These easy summer crockpot recipes are some of the dishes that made the cut this year as my go-to, party-pleasing meals that all guests are sure to love.

Don’t own a crockpot? These recipes might just make you hop in the car and drive to your nearest kitchen supply store. The versatility of a crockpot makes it a great piece to have on hand, especially when standing in the kitchen for hours is at the bottom of your to-do list.

Read on for our favorite summer crockpot meals that make it easy-breezy to cook for a crowd.

Featured image by Gentl & Hyers.

27 Crowd-Pleasing Summer Crockpot Recipes

Slow Cooker Tikka Masala

Why We Love It: I’ll never turn down a chance to enjoy homemade tikka masala, no matter the season. This dish always brings the perfect amount of heat while highlighting savory spices like turmeric, cardamom, and cinnamon. Serve over a bed of freshly cooked basmati rice.

Hero Ingredient: Pair this dish with a side of garlic naan to ensure none of your tikka masala sauce goes to waste!

Pozole

Why We Love It: Yes, soup is for summer too! Call me crazy, but no matter how hot it is outside, a good bowl of soup always hits the spot. Last week, pozole was the soup of the day at one of my favorite restaurants and it reminded me of this crockpot pozole recipe that Camille picked up on a trip to South Carolina. It’s full of veggies, super tender pork, and all of those Mexican flavors that I never tire of.

Hero Ingredient: The red (mildly) hot chile peppers.  

Millet And Amaranth Porridge With Figs And Papaya

Why We Love It: PSA: Summer crockpot recipes aren’t just for dinner. Sarah Copeland’s go-to porridge recipe is an upgrade to your morning bowl of oatmeal. It can be prepared in an Instant Pot or a slow cooker, but either way, it’s a simple and delicious canvas for your favorite toppings. While this breakfast takes a little forethought (it cooks for four hours in the crockpot), it requires basically no effort and will make you excited to get out of bed in the morning.

Hero Ingredient: A little drizzle of honey goes a long way. 

Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowls

Why We Love It: DIY burrito bowls are a perfect way to allow picky eaters to—well—pick (and choose) what toppings to add to their dish. Using a crockpot to slow-cook your protein makes this dinner a great weeknight option after a long day in the sun.

Hero Ingredient: A drizzle of sour cream is my personal favorite addition to burrito bowls.

Slow Cooker Chicken White Bean Chili

Why We Love It: Chicken and white beans make a great alternative to traditional chili when the weather warms up. Throwing all of these ingredients in a crockpot makes life ten times easier. Bonus: you can easily freeze this dish for when cooking dinner (even in the crockpot) seems like a daunting task.

Hero Ingredient: Squeeze lime into your chili for a fresh tangy taste.

Creamy Green Chile Chicken Tacos From Recipe Runner

Why We Love It: Taco Tuesday just got a whole lot easier. I always love a good shredded chicken taco, but sometimes they can be too dry, and frankly, boring. However, with only a handful of ingredients and a trusty crockpot, you’ll have moist, creamy chicken tacos that the whole family will love. The chicken cooks for 3-5 hours, which also makes this one of the fastest, slow-cooking, summer crockpot recipes. 

Hero Ingredient: The enchilada sauce is a whole ‘lada’ yum.  

Slow Cooker Four Cheese Mac And Cheese From Damn Delicious

Why We Love It: It’s not a summer barbecue without a big side of mac and cheese. But, since the main dishes tend to require more attention, this crockpot mac and cheese recipe will make your life so much easier. You throw everything in the same pot, even the uncooked noodles, stir halfway through, and you’re done. It’s one of the easiest of all the summer crockpot recipes, and one of my personal favorites. If you want to spice it up, I suggest topping with some toasted breadcrumbs before serving. 

Hero Ingredient: Four cheeses is better than one. 

Slow Cooker Thai-Inspired Peanut Chicken With Sticky Coconut Purple Rice From Ambitious Kitchen

Why We Love It: I think my love of Thai food stems from my childhood obsession with peanut butter. Any recipe that involves peanut butter immediately gets my attention, and this peanut chicken rice bowl is no exception. It’s packed with protein and veggies and is perfect for meal prep all year round, but it’s a great summer dinner to come home to. I didn’t have purple sticky rice on hand when I tried this recipe, so I used brown rice instead and it was still delicious. However, the purple sticky rice has really piqued my interest and I definitely plan to use it next time. 

Hero Ingredient: It’s peanut butter sauce-y time!

Slow Cooker Cheesy Mexican Quinoa Casserole from Eating Bird Food

Why We Love It: It doesn’t get much easier than a casserole in a slow cooker. This recipe contains rich flavors from its toppings, like avocado and sour cream, and a spicy kick from fresh jalapeno slices. It’s nothing like your average casserole.

Hero Ingredient: No Mexican casserole is complete without cilantro.

Crockpot Chicken Piccata from The Defined Dish

Why We Love It: Any form of chicken piccata is likely to win over my heart, but the mere ease of this recipe gives it a leg up. This is a great summer recipe for entertaining a large crowd (potentially full of picky eaters!).

Hero Ingredient: Don’t forget the squeeze of lemon juice! Fresh flavor for the win.

Slow Cooker Fiesta Ranch Chicken Wraps from Jar of Lemons

Why We Love It: Wraps are a great grab-and-go option to throw together during the week or even to put out for a summer get-together. The chicken is super simple to make in the crockpot, and the wrap itself contains a variety of fresh and healthy ingredients like corn and cherry tomatoes.

Hero Ingredient: I love incorporating black beans into any southwest-style recipe.

Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup from Pinch of Yum

Why We Love It: This gnocchi soup is one of my favorite recipes for when I want to cozy up on the couch and escape the outdoor heat. Whether or not it’s summer, sometimes putting on a pair of sweatpants and indulging in savory Italian seasonings is exactly what I need.

Hero Ingredient: Fresh baby spinach is nutrient-packed and utterly delicious in this gnocchi soup.

Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches from Spoon Fork Bacon

Why We Love It: Pulled pork is a summer staple, and what easier way to make it than throwing your cut of pork into a crockpot? (Aka, letting your appliance do the work for you!) Served with a savory slaw, these sandwiches will stun guests all summer long.

Hero Ingredient: This recipe’s pineapple cabbage coleslaw is a must-have to complete this sandwich.

Slow Cooker Sriracha Meatballs from Foodie Crush

Why We Love It: Slow cooker meatballs are a childhood classic that I’ve looked forward to for as long as I can remember. Whether it was Christmas or the Fourth of July, I could always count on some delicious variety of meatballs to be served on the table. These sriracha meatballs have a sweet and spicy kick that’s sure to please everyone’s taste buds.

Hero Ingredient: Top with green onions and sesame seeds for a stunning presentation!

Slow Cooker Chicken Enchilada Casserole from Fit Foodie Finds

Why We Love It: If you’re not feeling up to crafting this family-favorite dish, making enchiladas in casserole form is a great shortcut. You’re still preserving the flavor you would find in traditional enchiladas, but your cook time isn’t nearly as daunting.

Hero Ingredient: Make it at home or buy it from the store, but enchilada sauce is a must.

Slow Cooker Zucchini Lasagna from Primavera Kitchen

Why We Love It: Similar to enchiladas, avoiding a long bake time can be a game changer if you’re cooking for a crowd. This zucchini lasagna is lighter than the traditional version with all of the same beloved Italian flavors.

Hero Ingredient: I could go on and on about how much I love ricotta, but for the time being, don’t forget it in this dish.

Slow Cooker Spinach Artichoke Dip from Gimme Some Oven

Why We Love It: A brief diversion from summer crockpot mains is this spinach artichoke dip. This dish is the perfect appetizer for your pool party or cocktail hour. Plus throwing it all in the crockpot makes the cooking process a breeze.

Hero Ingredient: Cream cheese keeps this dip melty and delicious.

Golden Lentil Soup with Sweet Potatoes, Coconut & Lime from The First Mess

Why We Love It: It can be hard to find a summery soup recipe, but this golden lentil soup may be the bowl you’ve been searching for. Coconut and lime work in tandem to bring out the tropical, summery flavors while still lending warmth and tang to this cozy soup.

Hero Ingredient: Sweet potatoes pack plenty of nutrients into your bowl.

Asian Lettuce Wraps with Chicken from Well Plated

Why We Love It: Less filling than a tortilla or sandwich bun, lettuce wraps are a great snack or lunch to enjoy without feeling full or bloated. The Asian-inspired chicken with veggies is a great filling to add to these wraps, as well as any salad or rice bowl.

Hero Ingredient: You can’t have lettuce wraps without lettuce!

Crockpot Ribs from Spicy Southern Kitchen

Why We Love It: Growing up, I was never the biggest fan of restaurant-style ribs, but this crockpot version is a great alternative to throwing ribs on the grill or smoker. They’re fall-off-the-bone delicious and make for a great BBQ option for any cookout or potluck.

Hero Ingredient: A good BBQ sauce is the perfect complement to any ribs.

Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken from The Real Food Dietitians

Why We Love It: Buffalo chicken can be used as a featured ingredient in practically any dish. Throw this simple chicken recipe on a potato, salad, or enjoy it on its own. There are so many possibilities for a recipe that takes such little time!

Hero Ingredient: A good buffalo sauce is key.

Slow Cooker Saucy Thai Butternut Squash Curry from Half Baked Harvest

Why We Love It: A cozy dish for those late summer nights, this curry will fill your plate with savory flavors and warm spices. Coconut milk brings a creamy element to the pasta, and Thai red curry paste gives this pasta a gorgeous golden brown color.

Hero Ingredient: Pomegranate arils are the perfect touch of color.

Instant Pot + Crockpot Sunshine Lemon Chicken Chowder from Real Food Whole Life

Why We Love It: Both Instant Pots and crockpots can be used to curate this chicken chowder, which is essentially summer in a bowl. It’s light, zesty, and bright in color. What’s not to love?

Hero Ingredient: Lemon is the ultimate summer ingredient.

Slow Cooker Pork Chili Verde From How Sweet Eats

Why We Love It: If it isn’t clear yet, pork in the slow cooker is the ultimate shortcut for summer. This pork chili verde is limey with a bit of heat and pairs well with fresh tortillas or any variety of rice. Simple and even more delicious.

Hero Ingredient: Add a bit of heat to freshly sliced jalapeños.

Slow Cooker Brisket Tacos from House of Yumm

Why We Love It: Brisket is another great protein to throw in the slow cooker and let sit on a summer’s day. It can be eaten on its own, but I prefer to incorporate this cut of meat into tortillas and top it with my favorite taco toppings like sour cream and cheese.

Hero Ingredient: The juice of fresh lime will add the best, balanced zest to your tacos.

Slow Cooker Birria from Jar of Lemons

Why We Love It: Here in Texas, good birria is a sought-after Mexican dish at both restaurants and food trucks throughout the city. While this meal can seem daunting to cook, using a slow cooker makes it beyond simple to obtain all of the great flavors that come with birria.

Hero Ingredient: Ancho and Guajillo chiles are what set the flavor birria apart from other dishes.

Slow Cooker Chicken Shawarma from Daisies & Pie

Why We Love It: Chicken shawarmas are a lighter dinner option that can be customized with toppings to each guest’s liking. This Middle-Eastern meal usually calls for quite a bit of prep time, but using a crockpot provides a shortcut that doesn’t eliminate too many of the traditional flavors.

Hero Ingredient: Your shawarma isn’t complete without lemon yogurt dip.

The post 27 Summer Crockpot Recipes That Prove—Slow Cooker Meals Are For Every Season appeared first on Camille Styles.

Counting down the days until your next adventure? Same. It’s no secret that summer is notorious for weekend getaways, basking in remote beach towns, and exploring the roads less taken. Or at the very least, relishing a staycation in your hometown. Get ready to pack your favorite travel uniform and a few nourishing snacks. Whether you’re jetting to California’s central coastline—or hopping to (yet another) work conference—there’s one thing to keep in mind, no matter your travel path: blood sugar balance. Even while you explore new places, maintaining stable blood sugar is important. Fortunately, it’s not hard to do! This summer, create unforgettable memories and implement these blood sugar travel tips along the way.

Blood Sugar Balance—on the Go

With travels heating up, there’s no better time to chat about blood sugar balance. After all, it can be difficult to maintain a consistent routine (and eat nourishing meals!) when you’re living out of a suitcase. Furthermore, it’s easy to be derailed by circumstances: delayed flights, eating out, and no gym access. However, you can absolutely keep blood glucose balanced as you traverse the world.

Today, we’re sharing easy hacks to keep your blood sugar stable while traveling! With a little bit of foresight, you can say bon voyage to sugar spikes on the road.

Most Americans Have Unstable Blood Sugar

Did you know that unstable blood sugar impacts more than 88% of Americans? Yes, 88%. Unfortunately, most of us are walking around with sugar spikes and crashes—all day long. Eventually, these sugar spikes and crashes eventually become the underlying factor in countless chronic conditions: diabetes, inflammation, and hormonal imbalances. Luckily, not all hope is lost. In fact, you can begin to improve your blood sugar (and thus, your focus, sleep, energy, and mood) in just one day.

Why is blood sugar balance important?

Let’s back up. What is blood sugar—and why is it important? You want to keep blood sugar balanced (as often as possible). This helps prevent or delay long-term, serious health problems. Think: heart disease, vision loss, kidney disease, and unwanted weight gain. That said, on a day-to-day basis, staying in your target range is equally important. It can improve your energy, balance hormones, minimize intense PMS symptoms, stabilize your mood, and more. In many ways, blood sugar is the master controller.

Blood sugar—also known as blood glucose—is the amount of sugar in your blood at any given time. It’s produced when the body breaks down carbohydrates. 

How do I know if my blood sugar is balanced?

Great question. Before you start wearing a continuous glucose monitor (which gives you immediate and direct insight into your blood glucose levels), tap into your body’s feedback. Has it been hours since you’ve eaten—and do you feel hangry, foggy, or shaky? These are signs of low blood sugar. Do you experience intense sugar cravings or mood fluctuations shortly after eating? These are signs of high blood sugar. Generally speaking, symptoms like headaches, fatigue, trouble concentrating, and weight gain can be tied back to blood sugar instability.

Does travel impact blood sugar?

Yes, it can. Ultimately, any change in diet, activity levels, and environment (temperature, altitude, etc.) can affect blood glucose levels. Additionally, factors like staying in a hotel—and not sleeping as well— can impact overall health.

Disrupted Routine

Travel often disrupts regular routines, including meal times, physical activity levels, and medication schedules. These changes can affect blood sugar management, leading to fluctuations in glucose levels.

Dietary Changes

While traveling, dietary changes are inevitable. Thanks to different time zones, availability of food options, and eating out more frequently, these things can result in blood sugar spikes. Not to mention, consuming unfamiliar foods, indulging in higher-carbohydrate or high-sugar meals, or experiencing inconsistent meal timings can impact blood sugar control.

Decreased Physical Activity

Between sitting during long flights or drives, and not having access to your typical workout classes, decreased physical activity is common during travel. That said, activities like sightseeing, hiking, and biking increase physical exertion!

Stress And Jet Lag

This goes without saying, but travel is stressful. And stress hormones can cause blood sugar levels to rise. Additionally, crossing multiple time zones can disrupt the body’s internal clock. Hello, jet lag. Jet lag disturbs sleep patterns and eating schedules, potentially affecting blood sugar regulation.

How To Keep Blood Sugar Stable While Traveling

Luckily, there are helpful blood sugar travel tips to keep your blood sugar stable! And they’re easy to implement. While traveling is wonderful and exhilarating, it can also challenging and exhausting—all the more reason to maintain balanced blood sugar. In turn, you’ll be better equipped to handle (inevitable) travel obstacles. To enjoy your vacation to the fullest, take time to planning ahead, prioritize balanced meals, and move your body—daily. Of course, relaxing, unwinding, and being spontaneous are equally important, too! It’s all about sticking with the plan but going with the flow.

Healthy Travel Hacks

Without further ado, below are our tried-and-true healthy travel tips. Wherever you go—this summer and beyond—we hope you lean into wanderlust, staying energized and balanced along the way.

1. Plan Ahead

Before you set off on your trip, create your itinerary. Planning ahead includes packing healthy snacks, bringing electrolyte packets for your water bottle, and a sleep mask/earplugs. It’s also helpful to research local restaurants, grocery stores, and food options that align with your dietary needs. Planning (some of!) your meals and snacks in advance can ensure you have healthy options readily available. In turn, helping you maintain stable blood sugar levels.

2. Bring Snacks

There’s no need to stuff your suitcase with shelf-stable food, but bringing nourishing snacks (that are easy to carry with you) can save you in a pinch. You can also pack chia seeds and protein powder—to add to oatmeal, for example. Keep in mind that finding carb-rich snacks is usually easy, so focus on packing protein and fat-forward snacks. A few of our favorites: nut butter packets, high-fiber protein bars, pistachios, walnuts, dark chocolate, and no-sugar-added jerky.

3. Stay Hydrated

Proper hydration is essential for everyone, particularly when managing blood sugar levels. In essence, dehydration can cause blood sugar to rise. Carry a refillable water bottle with you and sip on water throughout your journey. Avoid sugary drinks and opt for water or unsweetened beverages instead (unsweetened iced tea, sparkling water with lime, etc.). Need a new reusable water bottle? We have you covered.

4. Move Your Body

This isn’t about booking an intense workout class, clocking hours at your hotel gym, or foregoing brunch to get your workout in. After all, your vacation is meant to be that—a vacation from your weekly routine. That said, movement is extremely helpful when it comes to blood sugar balance. Take advantage of opportunities to walk or bike, find a local yoga studio to stretch after flying, and consider incorporating efficient exercise into your daily routine.

Even 10-15 minutes of bodyweight exercises will help soak up the excess glucose in your blood and stabilize your blood sugar. Additionally, many destinations offer opportunities for outdoor activities (hiking, paddle boarding, swimming, etc.). Make movement fun again!

5. Prioritize Protein

When possible, look for restaurants that offer healthy options: salads, grilled meats, and vegetable-forward dishes. Here are helpful restaurant apps to get you started. However, depriving yourself of seasonal ice cream or a pain au chocolat isn’t the goal. You’re on vacation, after all! But when in doubt, prioritize protein. Especially for breakfast. Starting your day this way can positively impact blood sugar. While these popular foods tend to spike blood glucose, poached eggs, smoked salmon, turkey sausage, or tofu scramble are nourishing alternatives. Opt to split waffles or pancakes with your fellow travelers. And if you stop by a smoothie shop, ask for an extra scoop of protein powder.

6. Start Your Meal With Veggies

Fiber-rich vegetables, like leafy greens, collard greens, and broccoli are fabulous for blood sugar management. If you’re at a pizza restaurant, start with caprese or a simple salad with olive oil and vinegar. There’s no need to say no to the bread basket, but enjoy your bread (with butter or olive oil!) after you’ve had a salad or protein-rich appetizer. If your table is sharing a basket of fries at a burger joint, for example, ask for your burger sans bun and enjoy the fries after you’ve had most of your burger. That way, your body digests the protein—which has minimal impact on blood sugar—before the fries, which will naturally elevate glucose. 

7. Create An Optimal Sleep Environment

One of the key components to restful sleep? Balanced blood sugar. When blood sugar is managed throughout the day, you have a higher chance of getting restorative sleep. However, even partial sleep deprivation increases insulin resistance. In turn, this can increase blood sugar levels. The main takeaway: balanced blood sugar leads to restful sleep, and restful sleep leads to better-managed blood sugar. It’s a two-way street! Don’t forget to pack your sleep mask, your favorite pajamas, and a travel-friendly white noise machine.

8. Be Wary Of Hidden Forms Of Sugar

Along with packing snacks, bring your own individual sweetener packets—like stevia or monk fruit, to add to your coffee or iced tea. Stevia and monk fruit are both very blood sugar-friendly. Furthermore, be aware of hidden sources of sugar in sauces and dressings. Simply ask for these to be served on the side or sub a creamy balsamic dressing for olive oil and a squeeze of lemon. When ordering drinks, swap sugary beverages for a cocktail made with fresh juice, a mocktail with sparkling water and a squeeze of lime, etc.

9. Implement Mindfulness

As mentioned, stress can have a significant impact on your blood sugar levels. When you’re under stress, your body releases hormones that raise blood sugar—even if you haven’t consumed any sugary foods. Incorporating mindfulness practices into your vacation is a game changer for reducing stress levels and maintaining stable blood sugar.

A few effective ways to infuse mindfulness into your travel experience:

• begin each day with a few moments of mindful reflection while setting positive intentions (don’t forget your journal!)
• eat slowly and chew thoroughly during mealtimes
• connect with nature
• consider a digital detox

10. Have Self-Compassion

Last but not least, have self-compassion. Be kind and gentle with yourself, especially in moments of chaos and haste (hello, delayed flights). Acknowledge that not everything will go perfectly and that much of life is out of our control. C’est la vie. Practice self-compassion by accepting challenges or setbacks with understanding and self-care. It’s all about the journey—and who you’re journeying with. With these blood sugar tips in mind, bon voyage on your summer travels!

The post Healthy Summer Travel Hacks to Keep Your Blood Sugar in Check appeared first on Camille Styles.

The weather in Texas is finally starting to feel like summer and I’m here for it. While the weather might protest, I am dying to get outside among friends and play some outdoor games designed for adults. Trust me— it’s about to get competitive.

It’s crazy to think how far we’ve come since the COVID-19 lockdowns. But if there’s one thing I’ve taken from that time (and trust me, I’ve learned a lot), it’s to always make the most of the time I have with loved ones. This summer, that means more art projects than I’ve done since middle school and reading more books than I’ve ever been assigned to read. I only wish I had this list of boredom-busters back in March 2020.  

My favorite part, though? Getting outside for some fresh air and playing games like we were kids again. It truly brings my family so much joy to be outside, getting some exercise, and enjoying each other’s company.

Featured image by Kristen Kilpatrick.

Just in Time for Summer: 19 Outdoor Games for Adults

Let me tell you, our activities get heated in the best way possible. Now that the weather is starting to cooperate, I can’t wait to recreate these ‘field days’ with family and friends. If you are looking for fun ways to spend time with your loved ones, keep reading for our list of the best outdoor games for adults to spark ideas for your weekend plans.

Every product is curated with care by our editors and we’ll always give an honest opinion, whether gifted or purchased ourselves. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a small commission at no cost to you.

Bocce Ball

Bocce Ball is one of the easiest and yet most competitive games you could possibly play. I grew up having bocce tournaments in my grandparents’ backyard and those games are some of my fondest memories to this day. (Although I think we were more invested in what color ball we got to throw than the game itself).

The game is played with eight large balls and a pallina—a smaller ball. The goal is to have your ball land as close to the pallina as possible. While it takes little-to-no skill or effort, watching your ball land right next to the pallina and then roll 10 feet away can definitely get your blood boiling! This set even glows in the dark, so the fun doesn’t have to stop when the sun goes down.

Water Sports Lighted Boccee Ball Set

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$99.49

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Paddleball

Paddleball is one of my favorite games and simultaneously the one that I am worst at. (But hey, that makes it all the more entertaining!) I have vivid memories of my parents having intense paddle ball competitions on the beach as a kid and they made it look so easy. I would always end up frustrated that I couldn’t hit the ball more than five times in a row. That’s why I stand by the fact that it is, indeed, one of the best outdoor games for adults.

While I’m still unsure if my family plays by the real rules, we love counting how many times we can hit the ball back and forth without it hitting the ground. This set by The Beach People is stunning and makes any player feel like a pro.

The Beach People Paddle and Ball Set

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$99

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Pickleball 

Is it just me or have you been hearing about and seeing pickleball everywhere these days? Whether it’s an outdoor double date or a neighborhood tournament, everyone is raving about this game. It’s similar to tennis but is played on a badminton-sized court with special paddles and a wiffle-esque ball. I have noticed more and more parks building pickleball courts and have even been to a few friends’ houses where they have their own in their backyards!

Franklin Sports Pickleball Paddle and Ball Set

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$15.29

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Four Square Volleyball

When researching the rules of four square for my family, I came across this four-square volleyball game set and have been dying to get it ever since. It’s the love child of classic four square and volleyball and seems to have “I’m addicting” written all over it.

The rules are the same as four-square, but instead of bouncing it into someone else’s square, you spike it! This game will be the main event of your next barbecue, guaranteed. But until I get a net and set of my own, I’ll still be playing traditional four square. You should, too.

Crossnet Four Square Volleyball Net & Game Set

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$113.99

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Corn Hole

Corn hole is one of those classic outdoor games that never gets old. It’s also a very low-energy game, one that you can play with a drink in one hand and a conversation going all at once.

Each player must do their best to toss their bean bag into the hole in the board. Scoring is simple: one point for the bag landing anywhere on the board, two for it hanging off the rim, and three for making it in. While you can always find corn hole boards with more character, I suggest getting a simple wood set and getting creative. I have seen beautiful boards with the family’s name hand-painted across and have been to a few events where everyone gets to sign and date the board using colorful paint pens, add their handprints, and more.

Beyond Outdoors Wooden Bean Bag Toss

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Giant Jenga

You may be wondering if Jenga is truly an outdoor game, but make it giant and it is no longer safe for the kitchen table. (Just ask our executive producer Michelle about her broken water glass fiasco.) If you haven’t played, you basically arrange all of the blocks to build a tower and remove them one by one without letting it come collapsing down. Michelle’s advice? “Just avoid a windy area and definitely keep all drinks out of the crash radius.” This set by SunnyLife is gorgeous and would also make a great gift.

Sunnylife Giant Jumbling Tower

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$68.99

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Spikeball

Spikeball is one of the ultimate outdoor games for adults, as it can be played in the grass, on the beach, and even in the pool. This one will definitely get your heart pumping as you have to be quick on your feet to slap the ball onto the trampoline in the middle of the players before it gets away from you. Our motherhood contributor, Brandy Joy Smith, and her family are huge fans of this one—adults and kids alike.

Spikeball Standard 3 Ball Kit

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Backgammon

I know this isn’t your typical outdoor game, but when our contributing editor, Anne Campbell sent me these gorgeous Backgammon sets, I couldn’t help but add them to the mix. She recommends setting the game out on a picnic table and it doubles as pretty décor, too! This is definitely a scene I can get behind—sitting in the backyard, Flatland Calvary playing in the background, a glass of rosé, and some friendly competition.

The sets come in green, red, and blue and I will be spending way too much time deciding which color to add to my game collection.

Travel Backgammon Board

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$220

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Horseshoes

No list of outdoor games for adults would be complete without horseshoes. My dad made a homemade horseshoe pit in our backyard when I was little, and although it has since been covered in grass and overtaken by weeds, I am now dying to fix it up.

All you need is two stakes, two horseshoes, and lots of patience to hook the horseshoe around the stake. This traditional Texas game is a favorite of our editor, Lauren Zielinski. She notes that “It’s actually not as easy as it looks if you’ve never played, and nostalgically takes me back to little honky-tonk bars with free jukeboxes, open doors, and plenty of ice-cold Lonestar beer in deep South Texas.”

Champion Sports Horseshoe Set

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$41.45

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BucketBall

While some people might want to leave beer pong in their college days, I recommend giving the game an upgrade and trying out BucketBall. It’s basically the same as traditional beer pong, but with bigger buckets and a tennis-sized ball. You can play with or without the alcohol, but the alcohol definitely makes it harder, funnier, and, well… an outdoor game for adults. It takes all the fun and competitiveness from the original game but leaves out the lukewarm beer and germ-covered ping pong balls. If you happen to have 20 trash bins lying around, feel free to make it jumbo and play with a basketball.

BucketBall | Team Color Edition

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Ping Pong

Even though this might be played inside the majority of the time, ping pong can certainly be considered an outdoor game. There are plenty of tables that are built to withstand weather conditions, so why wouldn’t you play the game outside? Riley, our contributing editor, acknowledges that ping pong requires some skill and coordination but is loved and appreciated by all.

JOOLA Indoor 15mm Ping Pong Table

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Ladder Toss

Play it at the beach or enjoy it in the backyard, ladder toss is a game that always gets people on their feet. If you’ve always put off participating in this game (like me), now is your time. It’s one of those games that doesn’t take a high level of skill and can be enjoyed by all ages. The game itself is on the less-expensive side, making it an affordable addition to your outdoor game repertoire.

GoSports Ladder Toss Indoor & Outdoor Game Set

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$32.99

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Darts

Dartboards are always a load of fun, but sometimes they can get dangerous. With kids and dogs running around, it’s not always feasible to have metal darts flying across the yard. That’s why this magnetic dart board set is the perfect solution that will keep everyone entertained. The boards can be hung from practically any object that will allow it, making it easy to transport this game to any get-together.

Yuham Magnetic Dart Board

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Croquet

As an avid golfer with three daughters who weren’t too into the sport growing up, croquet was something that my dad loved to set up in the backyard and play with my sisters and me. He loved to teach us how to hold the club and take aim as we hacked away trying to get the ball through the small hoops. Again, we never paid too much attention to the rules, but it was always so fun to see who could make it through the course first.

Contributing editor, Anne Campbell describes the game best: “It’s fun for all ages and it looks good on the lawn, whether it’s being used, or not. (Even more perfect when paired with mint juleps and sundresses…)” We couldn’t agree more.

ropoda Six-Player Croquet Set

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Ring Toss

Ring toss games have always been a personal favorite. Bring it outside, keep it on the patio, or enjoy it at the kitchen counter. The possibilities are endless with this portable and highly entertaining ring toss game. It’s lightweight, affordable, and highly addicting.

Ring Toss Game

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Twister

Twister is the epitome of a nostalgic childhood game. It gets everyone moving and laughing— especially when you’re forced to stretch muscles that haven’t been activated since the years of high school sports. This particular version is perfect for any pool-party or outdoor gathering where getting wet is a guarantee.

Hasbro Twister Ultimate Splash

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$29.99

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Four-In-A-Row

Four-In-A-Row isn’t typically played on such a large scale, but putting this game on the outdoor patio surrounded by delicious appetizers will definitely keep your crowd engaged. It’s like tic-tac-toe—utterly simple yet highly thought-provoking. You’ll definitely get into heated competition when it comes to this game!

Bolaball Four-in-a-Row

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$40.99

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Lawn Bowling

This outdoor game is great for when your group is feeling motivated for some friendly competition. If you have a trustworthy scorekeeper or board, backyard bowling can turn your backyard into the high-energy bowling alleys you loved visiting as a kid.

Backyard Lawn Bowling Game

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$30.08

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This post was originally published on February 14th, 2021, and has since been updated.

The post 19 Nostalgic Outdoor Games to Channel Your Inner Child appeared first on Camille Styles.

I know I’m late to the game, but for some reason, vitamin C only recently came on my radar. Sure, I’d heard about exfoliating, retinol, hyaluronic acid, etc.—and was incorporating them into my routine—but it’s only been in the past year or so that I’ve been fully turned on to the myriad vitamin C benefits. Turns out, I was missing out on a lot. And so now, with my interest fully piqued, I went to the experts to find and test out the best vitamin C serums. Spoiler: My skin couldn’t be happier.

Featured image by Riley Reed.

The Expert

Did you know that vitamin C can be used every day? I hadn’t realized that it was gentle enough for daily use. However, if you also like to use retinol, feel free to alternate it by applying it every other day or conversely, use vitamin C in the morning and retinol at night. Luckily, most skin types tolerate this popular active ingredient well, but if you have extremely sensitive skin, you may want to skip it. And as always, be sure to talk with your dermatologist about vitamin c benefits for skin if you’re concerned.

We tapped Dr. Heather D. Rogers, dermatologist, dermatologic surgeon, and founder and CEO, Doctor Rogers RESTORE, to share some information about this wonder ingredient. Not only does she recommend daily vitamin C application to her patients, but she also uses a vitamin C serum every morning on clean, bare skin. It is the first topical she applies to the face, neck, and upper chest.

What is vitamin C?

Vitamin C is an antioxidant molecule that plays a vital role in our skin’s health by protecting it against free radicals caused by pollution and the sun’s radiation. It’s also an important ingredient for the production of collagen. When free radicals penetrate the skin, Dr. Rogers says they break down our collagen, contributing to sagging skin and wrinkles. Free radicals also stimulate the formation of brown spots and skin cancer.

An antioxidant is a molecule that can collect these free radicals and neutralize them before they damage our cells. This protection is different from the protection sunscreen provides and can and should be used together daily to slow the signs of aging and prevent the formation of skin cancers.

There are several kinds of vitamin C. The most common forms used in skincare products are:

• L-ascorbic acid
• ascorbyl palmitate
• magnesium ascorbyl phosphate
• ethyl ascorbic acid
• tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate.

Another great thing about vitamin C is that it’s the most well-studied antioxidant in topical skincare products. Dr. Rogers tells me multiple studies show that antioxidant serums with vitamin C that are stabilized with vitamin E protect your skin against photo-aging. Since the skin is very good at keeping things out, these antioxidants need to be in a well-formulated, easily absorbed vehicle to ensure these essential and expensive vitamins get deep enough into the skin to protect it. Formulation is key!

Who can use vitamin C?

Vitamin C is very safe for most people, but since it is an acid (ascorbic acid), it can irritate sensitive skin types. If you have very sensitive skin, you need to pick a lower percentage of vitamin C because your skin is too good at absorbing ingredients, which makes it more sensitive.

Most studies show benefits to the skin when using serums with 10% vitamin C. Higher percentages do not mean better results but can increase one’s risk of irritation.

How long does it take to see results?

Dr. Rogers points to several factors when it comes to seeing results. Generally, you may see improvement at two weeks, however most clinical studies measure results when using a product with vitamin C after 12 weeks. But that all depends on how damaged your skin is, how consistently you use the serum, how well formulated it is, and how young you are—since that dictates how quickly your skin turns over.

Vitamin C Application Tips

• Use it in the right order. If your vitamin C treatment is a serum, use it after cleansing or toning and before moisturizing. If it’s in your moisturizer, use it as your last step.
• Use vitamin C in the morning. You can totally use it at night, but you’ll get the most benefit from applying in the morning. It heals sun damage and protects against UV radiation, so you’ll have an extra layer of protection with a morning application.
• Pick the right concentration. If you have sensitive skin, look for something around 5%. If you have more extensive issues you can handle higher concentrations.
• More is not better. It’s just more expensive in the long run. A small amount goes a long way, but be sure to use it regularly for best results.
• If the product changes color, toss it! Oxidized vitamin C tends to lose its power. It can vary in color from colorless, to straw-colored to pale orange. If it’s turned brown it might be time to say goodbye.

The Best Vitamin C Serums

Our vitamin C-packed picks include an eye serum, non-toxic options, face oil, and more! However you like your skincare delivered, there’s a little something for everyone.

Every product is curated with care by our editors and we’ll always give an honest opinion, whether gifted or purchased ourselves. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a small commission at no cost to you.

Best for All Skin Types: KLUR Unseasonal Kind Lipid Replenishment Oil

We love a vitamin C serum that works hard on the skin all throughout the year. This replenishing oil from the cult-favorite brand KLUR makes the most of its supercharged, antioxidant blend to support all skin types, no matter the season. Squalene, Coq10, and vitamins C and E harmonize to mimic and support the skin’s natural protection mechanisms. This is a solid choice for preserving younger skin and protecting mature skin as we age, nourishing the complexion with a lipid-rich formulation.

• Ingredients: Jojoba Oil, Raspberry Seed Oil, Rosehip Seed Oil
• Size: .67 fl oz
• Use: 2-3 times per week

KLUR Unseasonal Kind Lipid Replenishment Oil

Carefully selected nutrient-rich plant matter helps to reinforce barrier strength, energize fatigued skin, and replenish an environmentally depleted complexion.

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$90

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Best Budget: Alder New York Balancing Serum

We’re big fans of the queer and woman-owned independent skincare line, Alder New York. Their products are budget-friendly and formulated for all genders. From their cleanser to creams—we love the affordability and efficacy of their entire product line. This balancing serum is the perfect in-between step following your cleanser and before applying a moisturizer. As someone whose skin leans on the oilier side, I’ve noticed since using the serum that my skin’s oil production is kept in check. The result is a hydrated, glowy complexion that requires little makeup—perfect for summer. Hot tip: If you are using a tinted moisturizer this season, use the serum as a primer.

• Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, Willow bark, and Niacinamide
• Size: 1 fl oz
• Use: Daily, morning and/or night after cleansing

Alder New York Balancing Serum

This flash-absorbing serum is essential to every skincare routine. Formulated with hyaluronic acid, willow bark, and 5% niacinamide to reduce redness, control oil, and even skin texture. The oil-free formula is unscented and fragrance-free with a matte finish.

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$34.99

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Best for Face and Body: Proteger Dermal Serum

The skincare industry has been begging for a multi-use vitamin C serum—and Protéger delivers. “Featherweight” is an apt descriptor, because while other serums feel heavy and coat your complexion, Protéger’s Sérum goes on soft and smooth, offering an effective vitamin C-boosted formulation that shows up on the skin with just a light sheen. Glowy, gorgeous skin all over? Yes, please.

Protéger’s Dermal Sérum comes in two sizes. I personally have the larger bottle, and while the price is steep ($115 for 200 ml), I find that it’s justified by the fact that I can use this serum on both my body and face. Plus, a small pump goes a long way—it’s been months since I started using the serum and I’m still not even halfway through.

• Ingredients: Vitamin C, Hyaluronic Acid, Organic Coffee Seed Extract, Organic Aloe Leaf Juice
• Size: 15/200 ml
• Use: Apply a thin layer on face/body post-shower before any products

Protéger Dermal Sérum

This featherweight face and body serum delivers the same powerful results of prestige facial serums from your face down to your feet. Breathable and non-greasy, this custom formula evens tone, improves texture and leaves the skin radiant, bouncy, and fortified, with a smooth satin finish.

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$21.25

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Best Splurge: Blue Lagoon BL+ the serum

I’ve been using the entire suite of Blue Lagoon skincare products ever since I came back from my spring European vacay. Now that I’m back stateside, I can confirm: my skin is just as happy as it was when I was sleeping in late, drinking red wine on the reg, and living my most romanticized life. (That is to say, glowing and gorgeous.) Blue Lagoon’s serum utilizes the brightening power of vitamin C to boost skin health from the inside out. Now in my late twenties, I’m prioritizing products that aim to simultaneously support skin health while keeping it protected from premature aging. Because it’s a healthy glow I’m after, Blue Lagoon’s unique product formulations are always a go-to in my routine.

• Ingredients: Blue Lagoon Seawater, Blue Lagoon Mineral Salts, Blue Lagoon Lava
• Size: 15 ml

Blue Lagoon BL+ the serum

The Serum formula contains actives that work to hydrate, promote collagen production, prevent UV-induced collagen degradation, fight against environmental aggressors, and reduce free radical damage.

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$180

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Best Brightening: SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic Serum

This serum has won beauty awards and the favor of editors and dermatologists alike for good reason. You’ll love it for its ability to fight fine lines and wrinkles while dramatically lightening sun damage and dark spots. The formula contains complementing antioxidants like vitamin E and ferulic, which help increase the efficacy of vitamin C. It’s on the pricier side, but a couple of small drops go a long way.

• Ingredients: L-ascorbic Acid, Alpha Tocopherol, Ferulic Acid
• Size: 30 ml
• Use: In the morning after cleansing and toning, apply 4-5 drops to a dry face, neck, and chest before other anti-aging skincare products.

SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic Serum

A patented daytime vitamin C serum that delivers advanced environmental protection and improves the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, loss of firmness, and brightens skin’s complexion.

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$182

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Best for Scarring: Sunday Riley C.E.O. Glow Vitamin C + Turmeric Face Oil

I have a friend who swears by this face oil for fading acne scars, leaving you with giving brighter, firmer, and more glowy skin. Users have reported seeing a drastic difference and a just-got-a-facial-level glow in just one week!

• Ingredients: Pomegranate Seed Oil, THD Ascorbate (Vitamin C), Golden Turmeric
• Size: .5/1.18 fl oz
• Use: Massage as needed into face and neck, morning and/or evening.

Sunday Riley C.E.O. Glow Vitamin C + Turmeric Face Oil

Suppler-looking skin starts with a routine application of C.E.O. Glow Vitamin C + Turmeric Face Oil. With a quick-absorbing formula, this product gives your skin a luminous boost thanks to its golden turmeric and vitamin C contents.

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$80

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Best Drugstore: L’Oreal Paris Revitalift Derm Intensives Vitamin C Serum Treatment

Our drugstore gem of the group, this serum gets rid of dullness gently and effectively reduces discoloration. It has a waterless formula and an airtight UV-blocking tube to prevent oxidation of the formula and keep it in its most effective state. It is a great drugstore option that has incredible vitamin C benefits for the skin.

• Ingredients: Vitamin C, Hyaluronic Acid, Retinol
• Size: 1 fl oz
• Use: Every morning and evening, apply dime-size onto finger tips and apply to face and neck, gently smooth into skin.

L’Oreal Paris Revitalift Derm Intensives Vitamin C Serum Treatment

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$29.99

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Best Green Beauty: Fitglow Vita Active Serum

Green beauty products can sometimes be less than effective or you have to use them for a long time to see any results. This formula is different. It’s one of the best ones I’ve tried and my current personal favorite. I’ve noticed a dramatic difference in sun damage and scars fading. The serum’s formula works to increases collagen production and improves elasticity, leaving you with clear, smooth, and radiant skin.

• Ingredients: Aloe Leaf Juice, Ethyl (Vitamin C) Ascorbic Acid, Niacinamide
• Size: 30 ml
• Use: Massage 1-2 pumps onto face and neck.

Fitglow Vita Active Serum

5-in-1 transformative Vitamin C Serum powered by a synergistic blend of 20% Dual Vitamin C Complex, 3 Vegan Humectants and 13 Plant Antioxidants for naturally brighter, even skin. Targets and improves skin brightness and moisture levels, protects against daily environmental agressors, blocks the formation of future pigmentation and feeds skin minerals for optimal skin-repairing results. 

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$139

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Best Nontoxic: Drunk Elephant C-Tango Multivitamin Eye Cream

This power-packed nontoxic formula contains five different forms of vitamin C, a handful of antioxidants, coenzyme Q10, and a peptide blend, making it amazing for under-eye brightening and firming. Besides actually working well, the air-tight packaging and natural formula are major pluses.

• Ingredients: Power 5C Vitamin Complex, 8-Peptide Blend, Cucumber
• Size: .5 fl oz
• Use: Gently pat a pump of C-Tango around the eye area using your ring finger.

Drunk Elephant C-Tango Multivitamin Eye Cream

Drunk Elephant’s C-Tango is a rich and restorative eye cream featuring a brightening combination of eight peptides, five forms of vitamin C, and cucumber extract for firmer, stronger-looking skin around the eye area.

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$64

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Best Applicator: Biossance Squalane + Vitamin C Rose Firming Oil

Clinically proven and also made with clean, natural ingredients? Yes, please. This oil leaves skin soft, smooth, and glowing. Its weightless hydrating formula is made with squalane oil, vitamin C, chios crystal oil, and rose oil. It feels as good as it makes your skin look.

• Ingredients: Advanced Vitamin C (THD Ascorbate), Sugarcane-Derived Squalane, Chios Crystal Oil
• Size: 15/30 ml
• Use: Gently massage a few drops onto cleansed face and neck, morning and night.

Biossance Squalane + Vitamin C Rose Firming Oil

Visibly brighten, firm and hydrate with this bestselling vitamin C face oil. Made for all skin types–to reveal your most radiant-looking skin.

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$74

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Best for Evening Use: Tatcha Violet-C Brightening Serum 20% Vitamin C + 10% AHA

This clean and gentle formula has two kinds of vitamin C stabilized by antioxidant-rich Japanese beauty berry to give you a translucent, youthful glow. Mild fruit AHAs resurface dull, uneven skin as Japanese angelica root reduces the look of dark spots and scarring.

• Ingredients: Japanese Angelica Root, Mild Fruit AHAs, Japanese Beauty Berry
• Size: 30 ml
• Use: In the evening, dispense one to two pumps and gently massage onto skin.

Tatcha Violet-C Brightening Serum 20% Vitamin C + 10% AHA

A 20 percent vitamin C and 10 percent AHA serum with pure ingredients and gentle strength that helps soften, smooth, and brighten for more radiant, even-toned skin.

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$89

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Best Vegan: The Ordinary Vitamin C Suspension 23% + HA Spheres 2% Serum

With effective and affordable product options, The Ordinary is an entire category unto its own, right? This serum is a highly effective suspension with a whopping 23% of pure vitamin C. It stays completely stable thanks to the absence of water, is vegan and cruelty-free.

• Ingredients: Ascorbic Acid, Squalane, Hyaluronic Acid
• Size: 1 fl oz
• Use: Apply a small amount to face in the AM or the PM.

The Ordinary Vitamin C Suspension 23% + HA Spheres 2% Serum

Vitamin C Suspension 23% in HA Spheres uses direct vitamin C and hyaluronic acid to help visibly reduce signs of aging by brightening and balancing uneven skin tone. This water-free formula provides 23% pure L-Ascorbic Acid which remains completely stable due to the absence of water. What’s more, this water-free formula is supported with spheres of hyaluronic acid for added hydration.

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$7.80

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Best for Fine Lines: Kiehl’s Powerful-Strength Line-Reducing Concentrate 12.5% Vitamin C

This potent lightweight cream works quickly to reduce the look of fine lines while also improving skin texture. Whether you’re a longtime Kiehl fan or not, you’ll want to take a look at this option.

• Ingredients: Vitamin C, Ascorbyl Glucoside, Hyaluronic Acid
• Size: 50/75/100 ml
• Use: After cleansing, apply two pumps over entire face, avoiding the eye area.

Kiehl’s Powerful-Strength Line-Reducing Concentrate 12.5% Vitamin C

A potent Vitamin C serum formulated with 12.5% Vitamin C and Hyaluronic Acid that visibly diminishes fine lines in just two weeks.

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$100

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Best for Sensitive Skin: KORA Organics Noni Bright 12% Vitamin C Serum

This potent daily serum is made with a vitamin C superfruit complex that protects against free radicals, evens skin tone, plumps, and reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It’s a gentle, calming, and nourishing blend that supports overall skin health.

• Ingredients: Aloe Vera Leaf Juice, Lemon Peel Extract, Noni Fruit Extract
• Size: 30 ml
• Use: Apply one to two pumps daily to clean, dry skin before you moisturize.

KORA Organics Noni Bright 12% Vitamin C Serum

A visibly brightening serum with a daily dose of vitamin C and essential nutrients to keep your skin looking smooth, even-toned, radiant, and glowing.

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$73

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Best for Hyperpigmentation: Hyper Skin Brightening Dark Spot Vitamin C Serum

This hardworking vitamin C serum dramatically brightens dark spots.

• Ingredients: Vitamin C, Hyaluronic Acid, Kojic Acid
• Size: 30 ml
• Use: Apply two pumps of serum to clean, damp skin and massage gently. Use once daily, either morning or evening.

Hyper Skin Brightening Dark Spot Vitamin C Serum

This hardworking formula dramatically battles hyperpigmentation and signs of aging. Vitamin C (15%) combines with bearberry, licorice, and kojic acid (1%) to help combat stubborn acne scars and sun damage. Anti-inflammatory ingredients like turmeric and salicylic acid (less than 1%) work to heal and prevent future breakouts.

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$58

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Best for Uneven Skin Tone: Skin Better Science Alto Protect Serum

Dr. Rogers recommends this scientifically advanced and award-winning serum. Not only does it provide antioxidant protection, but it improves the look of uneven skin tone and redness too.

• Ingredients: Vitamins E & C and Coenzyme Q10, Licorice Extract, Trifluoroacetyl Tripeptide-2
• Size: 30 ml
• Use: In the morning and evening apply a thin layer to a clean, dry face, neck and décolleté. Can be applied all over the face.

Skin Better Science Alto Protect Serum

Scientifically advanced, award-winning daily antioxidant protection. In addition to daily antioxidant protection, SkinBetter Alto Defense Serum may improve the appearance of uneven skin tone and redness. It combines Vitamins C and E + 17 additional antioxidants designed to provide a new level of comprehensive and dynamic defense against free radicals.

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$165

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Best Hydrating: Revision Skincare Vitamin C Lotion 30%

This lotion contains the most stable and lipid-soluble form of vitamin C, as well as squalene to moisturize and condition the skin.

• Ingredients: Vitamins E and C and Coenzyme Q10, Licorice Extract, Trifluoroacetyl Tripeptide-2
• Size: 1 fl oz
• Use: Apply to clean skin. Dispense one or more pumps into the palm of your hand and apply evenly onto clean skin. Use once daily in the morning or twice daily for added benefits.

Revision Skincare Vitamin C Lotion 30%

Formulated with THD Ascorbate, the most stable and lipid-soluble form of vitamin C and includes a full line-up of antioxidants such as vitamin E and coenzyme Q10 to brighten dull skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and loss of firmness. Squalane hydrates for healthy, smooth skin.

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$138

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Best Fast-Absorbing: Avene A-OXitive Antioxidant Serum

Neutralize free radicals with this Dr. Rogers-recommended absorbent, powerful serum.

• Ingredients: Pre-Tocopheryl, Ascorbyl Glucoside, Hyaluronic Acid
• Size: 1 fl oz
• Use: After cleansing, apply in the morning and/or evening to the entire face, neck, and décolleté

Avene A-OXitive Antioxidant Serum

Fast-absorbing, powerful antioxidant serum neutralizes free radicals caused by environmental and lifestyle aggressors while visibly plumping skin to preserve a younger, brighter complexion.

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$46

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This post was originally published on May 20, 2020, and has since been updated.

The post Your Summer Glow-Up Is Here—We Found the Best Vitamin C Serums to Protect and Brighten Your Skin appeared first on Camille Styles.

Smooth rich olive oil. Fruity pitted olives. Liberal handfuls of all your favorite herbs. While some may cite cacio e pepe, pasta primavera, or any other pasta dish as their fave, this Italian salsa verde is my go-to when I want to bring the flavors of the Mediterranean to the table.

Traditionally known as “green sauce,” Italian salsa verde is filled with fresh chopped herbs like basil and parsley and plenty of garlic for added flavor. Luckily, we got to sample the sauce in all its glory when we visited Alison and Jay Carroll at their Joshua Tree home.

Alison Carroll’s Italian Salsa Verde

Typically, the popular Mexican version of salsa verde has a tomatillo base, which brings forward a less acidic, more tomato-like flavor. This salsa focuses more on mellow-toned ingredients like green olives and rich olive oil. The Carroll’s leaned on the rich and smooth olive oil that they produce for Wonder Valley to bring this Italian salsa verde to the next level.

Alison’s recipe is perfectly simple and serves as a colorful addition to any table. As she says of the sauce, “My salsa verde always has a variety of fresh herbs, always something salty, and always Wonder Valley olive oil.”

Convinced? Let’s take a look at this simple, but game-changing, recipe.

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Italian Salsa Verde

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  Author: Alison Carroll

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Full of flavor with fresh herbs, this salsa verde goes well on just about everything.

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Ingredients

Units
USM

• 1/2 cup coarsely chopped cilantro
• 1/2 cup coarsely chopped parsley
• 1/2 cup coarsely chopped mint
• 1/4 cup coarsely chopped dill
• 1 clove garlic, finely minced
• 1 lemon
• 1 tablespoon cut up lemon preserve
• 1 cup pitted green olives, the best you can find
• Wonder Valley Olive Oil!
• Kosher Salt

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Instructions

1. Cut all your herbs up, as fine or rough as you want. In a shallow bowl pile the herbs to one side and put the garlic and lemon juice on the other side to macerate for a bit.
2. Cut up a bit of lemon preserve, I always have a jar going in the fridge and use just the peel for it. Add to the bowl.
3. Break up the olives with your fingers, it looks nicer when they are torn rather than chopped in my opinion and the irregularly of size is nice.
4. Stir it together and POUR on the olive oil, I did at least a cup but it should be a really loose sauce and easy to spoon. Adjust with salt if needed. Goes amazing with roasted vegetables and grilled chicken! 

The post Italian Salsa Verde appeared first on Camille Styles.

There’s no doubt about it, potato salad is a classic that’s made for al fresco summer meals. From picnics and barbecues to potlucks and family dinners, a simple potato salad recipe can easily nourish a crowd with just a handful of ingredients.

This particular potato salad recipe comes courtesy of Alison and Jay Carroll, who prepared the dish for us during our team’s visit to their Joshua Tree home. And when we say it’s beyond simple, we mean it. The recipe calls for just 6 ingredients, bringing all the summer flavors we crave to the party. Our team was stunned by its elegant simplicity—with no mayo in sight.

Alison Carroll’s Simple Potato Salad with Smoked Chili Aioli

This recipe subs mayonnaise for olive oil— a twist that I’ll be incorporating into all of my potato salad ventures in the future. It makes this dish feel less heavy and ten times healthier. The simple chili aioli also packs plenty of heat that complements the potatoes and soft-boiled eggs perfectly.

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Simple Potato Salad with Smoked Chile Aioli

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  Author: Alison Carroll

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Searching for an aesthetic twist on a classic Southern dish? Look no further.

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Ingredients

• 10 small Yukon gold potatoes
• 5 eggs
• 1 lemon
• smoked chile pepper
• olive oil
• 1 clove garlic
• Fresh dill
• salt & pepper
• pickled garlic scapes*

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Instructions

1. Heat oven to 375 F. Puncture the potatoes with the tines of a fork. Rub with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
2. Place in a skillet and roast until they are fork tender. While the potatoes are cooking, make the aioli. You can certainly use a whisk or mortar and pestle and some good ol’ elbow grease to get the job done, but when I’m hosting I want the ease of a food processor.
3. Start by grating the garlic clove into the bowl of the processor. Add the juice of one lemon and allow to macerate for a few minutes. Add the yolks of 2 eggs, a pinch of the smoked chile pepper, and a pinch of salt and blend to combine. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil, the slowest stream into the mix so it’ll emulsify. Loosen with a few drops of water if needed. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Set aside.
4. Soft boil the remaining 3 eggs by bringing a small pot of water to a rapid boil and lowering in the eggs and cooking for 8 minutes for a slightly jammy yolk. Cool in an ice bath, peel, and cut into quarters.
5. When the potatoes are done, cut them up into irregular shapes. Toss with a lot of olive oil and the garlic scapes or capers (2 tablespoons worth will do). Add the black pepper and fresh dill with a heavy hand. Serve with the smoked chile aioli on the side or spoon onto a shallow bowl and pour the potatoes on top. 

Notes

*I pickled the garlic scapes in advance. You could make a simple brine, or just soak overnight in some vinegar in the fridge. I cut mine up and re-purposed some pickle brine I had in the fridge for 2 days. A handful of capers would also do nicely for some salty-pickled punch.

The post Simple Potato Salad with Smoked Chili Aioli appeared first on Camille Styles.

Traditional salads are so last year. Just kidding, but incorporating non-traditional salad ingredients into your bowl makes any recipe a bit more filling and much more delicious. This golden beet salad, which we sampled (and went back for seconds and thirds… ), when we visited Alison and Jay Carroll’s Joshua Tree home last month, was a rainbow of mixed hues and flavor. It isn’t just a stunning dish to add to your summer table—it’s also full of nutrient-packed golden beets, carrots, and kumquats. A delight for every sense.

When our team visited the couple in their desert home, this salad was one of the many standouts of the meal. The warm golden colors set against the California sunset were the perfect mix of color—and made for the photogenic salad of our dreams.

Alison Carroll’s Carrot, Kumquat, and Golden Beet Salad

As mentioned, color is everything in this golden beet salad. It strays from the traditional green and incorporates bright reds and oranges that are the epitome of summer. Alison notes that while any citrus can be used, blood oranges are the perfect pairing for golden beets.

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Carrot, Kumquat, and Golden Beet Salad

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  Author: Alison Carroll

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A delicious golden beet salad perfect for warm summer nights.

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Ingredients

• carrots, ideally small ones to roast whole or cut into halves
• olive oil
• salt
• chile powder
• golden beets, whole
• kumquats, cut into thin slices and careful to remove any seeds
• blood orange
• pepper

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Instructions

1. Heat oven to 375 F. Toss carrots with some olive oil, salt, and chile powder and lay out on a baking sheet.
2. Put whole beets in a small pan and puncture with the tines of a fork so steam can release. I don’t like cooking with foil, but you could wrap them with foil for a faster roast.
3. Put the beets and carrots in the oven and roast until the beets are tender and the carrots are soft and starting to caramelize a bit. Depending on their size, they most likely will be finished at different times.
4. While the beets are still hot but cool enough to handle, use a clean dishtowel to rub off their skins and slice them into wedges and rounds.
5. Arrange the carrots, beets, and kumquats on a large plate and finish with some more olive oil. (I like our olio nuevo for this since it has a bit more of a punch and really works well with citrus.)
6. Squeeze half a blood orange over top and finish with some salt and pepper. Other citrus would work well, but the blood-orange color is great with the golden beets. Serve warm.

The post Carrot, Kumquat and Golden Beet Salad appeared first on Camille Styles.

Sweet and tangy citrus desserts scream summer. And even if you eat gluten-free, fear not: you can still relish the zest of this gluten-free citrus cake, courtesy of Alison and Jay Carroll.

Our team recently gathered with Alison and Jay at their Joshua Tree home, and by the end of the evening, we enjoyed this delectable cake, topped with strawberries and coconut cream. It’s light, fluffy, and you’d have no idea it’s gluten-free (unless, of course, you read this in advance). Alison provided us with the full recipe for this cake so that we could enjoy it all summer long.

Alison Carroll’s Gluten-Free Citrus Cake with Strawberries and Cardamom Coconut Cream

Along with her recipe, Alison shared some tips and tricks for baking the best citrus cake. She notes that adding citrus zest to your sugar and massaging briefly before adding it to your batter is key to bringing these delicious citrus flavors forward.

“Add the zest to the sugar and massage with your fingers for a few minutes—it’ll stain the sugar the color of the citrus and really brings out the oils from the zest, amplifying the flavor. And it’s a nice thing to spend a few minutes doing. You’ll wonder why you haven’t been doing this all along, and what other things could you apply zesty sugar to. Pancakes? Toast? Oats? Yes! But I digress…”

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Gluten-Free Citrus Cake with Strawberries and Cardamom Coconut Cream

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  Author: Alison Carroll

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Description

Topped with sweet cream and strawberries, this citrus cake is the summer dessert of your dreams.

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Ingredients

Units
USM

• 3 tablespoons citrus zest
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 stick room temperature butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 eggs
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup yogurt (I used coconut)
• pinch of salt
• 1 cup almond flour
• 1 cup all-purpose gluten-free flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• strawberries, trimmed and quartered
• extra sugar
• 2 cans coconut cream, full-fat
• powdered sugar
• cardamom powder

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Instructions

1. The night before, put the cans of coconut cream in the fridge overnight so the fat on the surface solidifies and is cold.
2. Heat oven to 350 F. Start with hulling the strawberries with a heavy pinch or two of sugar in a bowl on the counter. This will draw out juices and make them soft and flavorful.
3. Next, start zesting the citrus. I used a blood orange, a pomelo grapefruit, a tangerine, and a Meyer lemon. Any citrus works! But I would use a grapefruit or lemon in the mix for the tartness.
4. Add the zest to the sugar and massage with your fingers for a few minutes—it’ll stain the sugar the color of the citrus and really brings out the oils from the zest, amplifying the flavor. 
5. In a bowl of a standing mixer (or with a bowl with a whisk), cream the butter and sugar together until smooth. Add the eggs, one at a time, and whisk so the batter is shiny.
6. Add the olive oil, vanilla extract, and yogurt. Stir to combine.
7. Add in the flours and baking sodas and powders. If I were a proper baker, I’d tell you to mix them first to ensure they are well combined, but I’m not that kinda baker and this isn’t that kinda cake so just give it a little extra whisking.
8. Pour into a greased loaf pan and bake for 45 minutes or until done with tester in the center. Cool in the pan.

Let’s make some icing, it’s delicious and vegan!

1. Take the fat from those cans of coconut. You won’t need the liquid so save for something else.
2. Add a pinch of cardamom and start with two tablespoons of powdered sugar and whisk away. An easier job for an electric mixer if you have it.
3. Taste once it starts setting and adjust the sugar. I don’t like mine too sweet, but you do you. Keep going until it’s a fluffy whipped cream.
4. Take the cake from the pan, top with cream, and spoon over the juicy strawberries. Serve. 

The post Gluten-Free Citrus Cake with Strawberries and Cardamom Coconut Cream appeared first on Camille Styles.

Alison and Jay Carroll split their time between the high desert of Joshua Tree and a small island in Maine. Though a study in contrasts, the locations suit them perfectly, fostering a deep connection with nature that allows them to cook with the abundance of the seasons, as well as provide endless inspiration for their wildly popular olive oil and skincare brand, Wonder Valley. It’s clear that the couple has built a beautiful life all on their own terms—one that enables them to live aligned with their values and freely follow their curiosity, wherever it may lead. 

When we showed up at the Carroll’s Joshua Tree home for a mid-week dinner party, Alison was in the midst of butterflying a chicken. Though her vibe said “laid-back host,” the menu itself revealed a deep knowledge of cooking—she moved about the kitchen with the intuitive approach that only happens when you know what you’re doing. (Picasso’s “Learn the rules like a pro, so you can break them like an artist” sprung to mind.) The Carroll’s close friends Ryan and Calley Belli had driven in from Los Angeles for a visit, and we spent a peaceful afternoon pitching in around the kitchen island, playing with 6-month-old Bo, and finally, gathering around the table just as the desert sun set over the mountains. 

We all left feeling nourished, body and soul, inspired by Alison’s thoughtful approach to hosting and gathering. Read on for our interview and of course, all the recipes for the insanely delicious feast she prepared.

At home in Joshua Tree

A typical day in the life…

What informs your approach to food?

A small stack of go-to cookbooks. Weekly trips to the local farmers market. A lot of intuition and winging it! Cooking is one of the few areas I don’t overthink. I start yanking stuff out of the fridge without much of a game plan, and meals just sort of come together. I sometimes go deep in learning a new technique like gluten-free baking, cooking over a fire, or using a Japanese donabe.

When I think of our culinary life in Joshua Tree, it involves a cornucopia of incredible citrus, dates, pomegranates, and Persian cucumbers—all from the local farmers’ market during California’s winter months. During our summers in Maine, we live on a working waterfront, so it’s a lot of lobsters and fresh catch from our fisherman neighbors , oysters from good friends who harvest them, wild blueberries and peak season tomatoes. We just built a new wood-fired oven in the backyard, so this coming summer will be the season of wood-fired oven experiments. 

We’re major Wonder Valley fans. How did the brand come to be?

Jay and I started Wonder Valley in 2014 out of a spare bedroom. I had previously worked as the marketing director for the California Olive Oil Council, an incredible role that involved overseeing our professional olive oil taste panel for the annual certification of all 400+ California extra-virgin olive oils. The role exposed me to the absolute best authorities and resources on domestic olive oil, and we still work with mentors I had from that time.  

We saw an opportunity to bring olive oil to a new audience and start a conversation about “extra virgin,” celebrating the quality of oil we produce here in California. We launched the brand and sold out of our first harvest within a month. We have a really unique approach to olive oil in that we pick our fruit rather green which gives us this really wonderful, robust oil that is just brimming with antioxidants and omega-rich fatty acids. A few years after launching the brand we started to use our olive oil in homemade face oils. It was absolutely transformative to the quality, radiance, and health of our skin, particularly living in this high and dry desert. That lit the match for our growing skincare line, all formulated with our olive oil as a hero ingredient.  We feel lucky to be in this unique position to talk about the importance of internal health for external beauty, and to offer products that support a more holistic approach to wellness. 

Tell us about your Joshua Tree home. How did you find it and what’s your favorite part of the space?

Jay and I bought this home in 2015 after about a year of looking. This neighborhood is where we wanted to land due to its proximity to the national park and 360 degree views of boulders and mountains. While driving around we noticed this small homestead with crumbling pink stucco and some boarded up windows. We heard it hadn’t been occupied for some time, so we tracked down the owner’s address and wrote a letter asking if they would be interested in selling, knowing it was likely a long shot. A few months later we closed on the house! 

At the time, we were living in LA and thought this would be our weekend home, but quickly became enamored by the expansive views of our new home and the process of fixing it up. With an optimistic DIY attitude that overshadowed our steep learning curve, we renovated it over the next couple years while living on site in our 1950’s blue Vagabond trailer.  

My favorite part of the house is our dining room, which was previously boarded up and divided into two small shag carpeted bedrooms. It feels like you’re hugged by the mountains on all sides with a little slice of snow-capped San Gorgonio mountain in the distance. 

We launched Wonder Valley just a few months before moving here. This home has given us the space— physically, mentally, and financially—to grow a business with a lot of care and without compromise. 

Walk us through a typical day at home.

The day usually involves some calls and working with our team, which is based between LA and Joshua Tree. Sometimes we’ll work together in person out of our VW HQ studio here on the property. It always involves some time outside—ideally a walk with our dog, Lefty, into the trails behind our house.

This time of year, I usually end my day with an outdoor shower when the stars are just starting to come out. It’s absolutely beautiful to stargaze from a hot shower out in the open desert, and I’ll bring one of our candles out to illuminate it.

We have an outdoor tub too, and I’ve been bringing Bo in for a bath time during the afternoons. We cook most of our meals at home: simple, healthful meals, made quickly, mostly with produce from the farmers market. Sometimes at night we’ll screen a movie, sometimes we’ll  have friends over, staying in our vintage trailer which now serves as the guest house. I always read in bed until I fall asleep. 

Right now, we have a 6-month-old baby girl named Bo, so our days are a bit unpredictable. Mornings usually start with a shot of olive oil and a pot of tea and a big breakfast for me. Sleeping next to a baby is new. Often I need a little extra time in the morning to come into the day.

Bo seems to really enjoy watching me do my routine in the morning and which is at a delightfully unhurried pace. That routine starts with  Oil Cleansing, perhaps a face mask or some gentle exfoliation, always a Gua Sha. I finish the routine with a dropper of our Wonder Serum which makes me instantly feel refreshed – my skin plumped, well-hydrated and glowing.  I transition from my robe and usually wear a jumpsuit (from my line alsbigdeal.com), which is easy to zip on, comfy to wear while working from home, and easy to breastfeed in. 

Casa Zuma Sharing Platter

Handmade in Los Angeles by our friends at LA Clay, this high temperature glazed stoneware platter is made by hand and versatile for salads, grilled chicken (and chocolate chip cookies!)

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Madre Linen + Wonder Valley Napkins

Napkins made in collaboration with our friends at Madre Linen. They source the most beautiful linen fabric with such a perfect color palette, it feels like an instantaneous heirloom.

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Set of 4 Linen Napkins, $90

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Casa Zuma Salad Bowl

This beautiful handmade wood salad bowl is on our dinner table almost every night, filled with whatever leaves and veggies are in season topped with a drizzle of quality olive oil.

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Handcrafted Wood Salad Bowl, $92

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On hosting and gathering

How Alison and Jay bring people together…

What does a great gathering look like for you?

We like to host. I think this was something we both had in common when we came together. I love the trips to the market, coming up with menus and spending a long day cooking. Jay makes our home feel great with floral arrangements, a great playlist he’s made, and a beautiful table setting with incense and candles burning. We both like to grill, sometimes on our small yakitori grill or sometimes on the big outdoor wood-burning grill. There are great trails beyond our home, so we usually take a walk before the meal with a cocktail in hand. 

Get Alison’s recipe for Carrot, Kumquat, and Golden Beet Salad.

What are some products you love for the table?

Our new napkins made in collaboration with our friends at Madre Linen. They source the most beautiful linen fabric with such a perfect color palette, it feels like an instantaneous heirloom.

Kevin Willis for Commune Votive Holders. Our friend and desert neighbor Kevin Willis makes these fantastic perforated ceramic votives and lanterns for candles.

La Soufflerie Glassware. Any glassware by La Soufflerie. It’s all beautiful. We have a pair of the Verre Tete glasses that are shaped like heads

 What’s your must-have cooking tool?

A sharp knife. It’s the most used and essential item, and it should be sharp and feel good in your hand. I personally use a 9” Japanese chefs knife. When my knife is sharp, I feel like I can do anything in the kitchen. Working with a dull knife is like dancing with two left feet. 

Get the recipe for Alison’s Simple Potato Salad with Smoked Chile Aioli.

What are your favorite cookbooks?

The Canal House books. They have a few books out and they were some of my first cookbooks that I bought for myself when I was 20. They are written by two women who have a restaurant and studio not far from where I grew up in New Jersey. I find their food exciting, timeless, honest and delicious. 

The Cannelle et Vanille cookbooks. Aran has given me the ability to bake gluten-free. It’s absolutely empowering to turn out beautiful sourdough loaves, perfect tarts, homemade bagels, and baguettes, all gluten-free. 

Nancy Singleton Hachisu’s books for Japanese cooking, particularly Japan by Phaidon. 

Tell us a few things we’ll always find in your refrigerator? 

Miso, preserved lemons, capers, spicy mustard, yuzu kosho, a kraut or kimchi. 

What scares you about entertaining and why?

Doing the dishes! 

Your signature dishes for gatherings?

Grilled avocado with yuzu kosho to start, and vanilla ice cream with Wonder Valley Olive Oil and sea salt to finish. Both are extremely simple and incredibly crowd-pleasing. 

Your go-to weeknight meal to eat at home?

Roast chicken is a staple here—it’s the gift that keeps on giving. This usually starts with a whole chicken roasted with some herbs, lemons and garlic. I’ll make a pan sauce with it over vegetables and rice. Then we stretch it out with some leftover salads, sandwiches and a stock from the bones. 

What’s one tip for someone who wants to host a gathering on a budget?

Taco night is pretty fantastic on a budget, and no one’s ever mad about it. It’s easy to stretch braised meat and go heavy with beans and vegetables. Everyone gets to make their own plate, which is helpful if they have dietary issues. It’s also a condiment game; make a chili oil, salsa, guacamole, salsa verde. We buy a big bag of Maseca corn flour (available at most food stores) and make tortillas by hand with a little press. It really elevates taco night and also gets all your guests involved rolling, pressing and frying tortillas. 

Get the recipe for Alison’s Italian Salsa Verde.

The perfect dinner party playlist includes:

Good music! Our music tastes encompass a lot of styles, genres, and eras. Here’s a favorite we use a lot. It was made for the opening of our bar La Reina, in Santa Fe, a few years ago.

Go-to centerpiece:

A bottle of Wonder Valley olive oil. An empty bottle makes a great candlestick or flower vase. 

What is your no-stress party rule to live by? 

Don’t swim upstream. If something’s not working (someone bailed last minute, a dish burned, everything is taking an hour longer), just roll with it. No one will remember or notice it anyway, but everyone will feel the stress radiating off of their host if you let it. 

Get Alison’s recipe for Gluten-Free Citrus Cake with Strawberries and Cardamom Coconut Cream.

Dream dinner guests?

John Waters, Ramdane Touhami, Helen Nearing, John Prine, Dolly Parton, and Sade. 

Fill in the blank:

A perfect meal should …

Leave room for spontaneity and improvising. And unique condiments! 

It’s not a dinner party without …

Music! 

Every cook should know how to…

Make a balanced vinaigrette for a perfect, simple salad.

The post A Desert Dinner Party with Wonder Valley Founder, Alison Carroll appeared first on Camille Styles.

Throughout the fall and winter, I crave nothing more than warming soups, grounding stews, and indulgent mains to fill me up. But when spring comes around, I join the masses storing our stockpots and spending less time in the kitchen. With things heating up, one of my favorite ways to ensure I get a delicious, nutrient-dense meal on the table is by leveling up my salads. And salad recipes for dinner are the easiest one-and-done meals that make the most of all the tasty, seasonal produce that’s up for grabs.

The satisfying salad recipes below combine crisp leafy greens with plenty of protein, grains, and healthy fats for a well-rounded spring meal. Could there be a better warm-weather main? When you opt for salad recipes for dinner, you’re streamlining the nutritional quality of your meal and weaving in flavor with colorful veggies, flavorful dressings, and plenty of protein, nuts, and seeds for added texture and crunch.

That’s my short and sweet case for prioritizing salad recipes for dinner. Need a little more convincing? Scroll the 15 recipes below—they’re all the proof you need that your next meal could use a standout salad.

Featured image by Michelle Nash.

15 Salad Recipes for Dinner That Won’t Leave You Hungry

Mediterranean Grain Bowl

Why We Love It: Camille’s latest salad masterpiece of the moment. I love a grain bowl when I’m craving something light but energizing. Fluffy golden quinoa is the perfect nutty base for all the fresh Mediterranean flavors. I’m talking black olives, mint, parsley, basil, and feta. Enough said.

Hero Ingredient: Don’t knock adding something sweet to your salad. Crunchy red or black grapes curb the olives’ briny bite and play up their fruity flavor to perfection.

Mexican Chopped Salad with Honey-Shallot Vinaigrette

Why We Love It: This chopped salad is all about color and crunch. Chickpeas are my favorite legume, lending body and creaminess to this otherwise crisp salad. Aesthetically pleasing, satiating, and refreshing? Say less.

Hero Ingredient: Let me pen a love letter to this honey-shallot vinaigrette. She’s sweet, she’s perfectly pungent (garlic!), and she incorporates gut-boosting ACV seamlessly.

Feta Salad With White Beans and Lemon Relish

Why We Love It: Panzanella is just one of Italy’s many brilliant contributions to the world of salads. (Caprese, antipasto, fennel and citrus salads… ) It’s a genius way to both use up stale leftover bread and, well… eat bread and call it a salad. This recipe includes a laundry list of textural faves—from crunchy cucumbers to creamy white beans to salty feta. In this salad, every ingredient counts.

Hero Ingredient: More about that bread. I like to toss all of my ingredients together and let them sit for at least 30 minutes. That way, the bread can soak up every bit of your lemon relish.

Spring Rice Salad

Why We Love It: I knew this salad was a winner even before taking a peek at the recipe. The layers of green from cucumbers, peas, avocado, and herbs galore are a vibrant delight for the eyes. Toss all of that together with perfectly-cooked basmati rice and you have the ideal spring/summer meal. I also love that a fried egg or two on top makes it all the more filling.

Hero Ingredient: Please, please, please start stocking your fridge with pickled shallots at all times. They’re an easy, instant flavor boost.

Cumin Chickpea Salad with Mint Chutney

Why We Love It: This salad is a vehicle for the fresh, flavorful, and herb-filled mint chutney. It brings a nice cooling element to this made-for-summer salad. Serve it with a side of naan for a dinner that keeps for a few nights in a row. (That’s right, you’ll want this on repeat.)

Hero Ingredient: Toasting freshly ground spices is an elite move—and one that shouldn’t be skipped.

Masala Corn Salad (Bhutta)

Why We Love It: The shift to warmer weather is my calling card to start eating corn on repeat. My favorite way to do it (besides on the cob, slathered in butter)? This salad. While my top corn choice is a classic, this salad elevates the veg to perfection. Garam masala, jalapeño, and chaat masala are just a few of the flavor boosters that give corn the star treatment in this salad.

Hero Ingredient: Queso fresco may be optional, but you can bet I’m always opting for a creamier salad—and cheese is always my go-to solution.

Charlie Bird Farro Salad

Why We Love It: This salad comes courtesy of Jessie De Lowe who served it up at her Santa Barbara dinner party last spring. I love the farro’s nutty bite mixed with the spicy arugula, sweet cherry tomatoes, and crisp radish. Sprinkle on a handful of fresh herbs (parsley, basil, and mint work well here), and add crusty bread with salty butter on the side. It’s the perfect light summer meal.

Hero Ingredient: Farro is the most underrated grain. Not only is it a delicious base for any salad, but it’s also full of fiber, protein, and other key nutrients (hello magnesium and zinc!).

Malibu Farm Rainbow Vegan Chop Salad

Why We Love It: Rainbow is right. We love a good chopped salad around here, and this recipe does the name justice. Generous slices of avocado combine with cubes of roasted butternut squash and get mixed with marinated roasted beets for a fresh salad that doesn’t lack flavor—or variety, for that matter.

Hero Ingredient: Watermelon radishes are the prettiest veggie we all need to be using more of.

Clarksville Kale Crunch Salad from Swedish Hill

Why We Love It: This is not your run-of-the-mill kale salad. Austin-favorite Swedish Hill shared the secrets behind this best-ever kale salad (yep, I said it). A seed mix comprised of flax seed, pumpkin seed, and everything bagel seasoning weaves crunch and flavor throughout. Drizzle on as much dressing as you please for added creaminess and a kick of heat thanks to the cayenne.

Hero Ingredient: I will never turn down a dressing that utilizes tahini as its base. Brilliant.

Buffalo Cauliflower Chopped Salad

Why We Love It: I love when my favorite flavors get the lightened-up treatment as a salad. While I’ll always say yes to a buffalo chicken wrap, there’s something about enjoying the spicy-sweet flavor combo aside plenty of fresh veggies that just makes me feel better about… everything.

Hero Ingredient: Buffalo cauliflower? Chef’s kiss.

Hummus, Greens, & Avo Bowl

Why We Love It: This has been one of my favorite Camille Styles recipes forever. I make it at least five times a month—it’s an essential in my weekly routine. Whereas most folks will use hummus as a dip, this recipe instructs you to smear a generous spoonful of the spread in each dish before adding your other salad ingredients. Genius. The bowl is inspired by our all-time favorite coffee shop, Two Hands (and it’s not just because of the attractive Aussie baristas… although that might play a role in our review.)

Hero Ingredient: I won’t say the greens are just a vehicle for getting as much of the hummus as I can… but I also won’t confirm that they’re not.

Thai Chicken Salad with Spicy Peanut Dressing

Why We Love It: This Thai chicken salad is pure tropical, beachy vibes. Not only is it light and healthy, but it’s also a quick, protein-packed meal thanks to the use of rotisserie chicken. And all that color from the mango, carrots, avocado, and cabbage? Bring on the dopamine.

Hero Ingredient: Keep sprinkling on the roasted peanuts—the more crunch, the better.

Chipotle Lentil Taco Salad

Why We Love It: This salad’s name comes from the chipotle powder that flavors the lentils to perfection. But honestly, I read it as a homemade substitute for the famed brand’s burrito bowls. If it’s fast food and fresh flavor you crave, this salad has Chipotle beat. Combine smoky, spicy lentils with light pico de gallo and a spicy lime chipotle dressing and you have a dinner you’ll go to bed dreaming about.

Hero Ingredient: I’ll be adding these lentils to everything.

BLT Salad with 8-Minute Eggs & Avocado

Why We Love It: My favorite sandwich in salad form? Sign me up. This recipe makes the most of all the classic components: crunchy croutons, avocado, crispy bacon, tomatoes, and fresh bibb lettuce. Sprinkle on the sea salt with a heavy hand—it brings out the flavor in everything.

Hero Ingredient: The honey-dijon vinaigrette is the only way to make this salad all the better.

Sunshine Detox Salad

Why We Love It: Whether you’re resetting after an indulgent weekend or not, any salad with “sunshine” in the name is always the answer. Personally, I love using cabbage in my salads. It’s a brilliant way to add heft and crunch while still keeping things light. Add a rainbow of veg and herbs plus a vinaigrette you’ll want to double up on and you have a crave-worthy dinner solution.

Hero Ingredient: Clearly, I’m all about the crunch—and sunflower seeds are one of my favorite ways to make it happen.

The post PSA: Salads Can Be a Filling and Delicious Main Course—These Are Our Faves appeared first on Camille Styles.

My skin loved being pregnant. But around sixth months postpartum, it took a turn for the worse. While I’ve dealt with mild forehead breakouts off and on since college, I never had acne or breakouts on my jaw and cheek. That is, until this past year. I eat a clean and nourishing diet, use organic high-powered skincare, and put a lot of effort into supporting my health holistically. Despite always being on top of my diet skincare game, I now find myself navigating the challenge of how to clear hormonal acne.

Featured image by Hannah Zahner.

How I Cleared Up My Hormonal Acne

While I’m obsessed with skincare, I don’t love the idea that you need 20 serums to get results. In my quest to learn how to clear hormonal acne, I had carts filled with hundreds of dollars worth of skincare, ready to pull the trigger to do whatever I could to clear my skin up.

Thankfully, I took a breather and remembered that there’s more to skin health than just throwing products at it. Skin is a reflection of your internal health. And while yes, I’ve found new products that have supported my skin’s health along the way, there were some major non-product-related steps that were crucial when figuring out how to clear hormonal acne.

I’ll be honest. I still get breakouts and don’t quite have the skin of my dreams, but it’s so much better. I’ve found what works for me. And trust me: the steps below have made an amazing difference. I’m happy to have found a rhythm that feels sustainable and long-term. And thanks to the clean products in my lineup, I won’t need to switch out too much when I get pregnant again.

My Hormonal Acne Journey: Before and After

But before we dive in, a before and after. My skin type is regular/dry with recent congestion and hormonal breakouts. The first photo was taken in November 2020 (so inflamed!), the middle photo in March 2021 as things were starting to calm down, and the after was taken in June 2021. Still some pigmentation, but so much better.

This is by no means meant to be a step-by-step instructional or medical advice. Everyone’s skin and body is different! But I find that reading about other people’s journeys is so helpful and can spark ideas of how to clear hormonal acne. Chat with your skincare professional if you’re feeling stuck. If everything below feels like a lot, keep in mind, I’ve incorporated these things over a year and started with the products I had already before slowly adding others in.

Scroll on for what I’ve learned, both internally as well as topically with (pregnancy- and breastfeeding-friendly!) products.

10 Tips to Help Clear Hormonal Acne

Shift your mindset

Breakouts suck. Everyone wants glowy flawless skin, and as a makeup artist and beauty writer, I didn’t love that I couldn’t seem to get things under control. But taking the pressure and stress off my skin was a game changer. I stopped saying things like, “ugh my skin is so bad right now!” when chatting with my sisters or friends.

Skin is neither good nor bad. It just is.

Mine was doing the best it could. And honestly, breakouts are a very common way for your skin to signal something’s up. When things are feeling extra frustrating, I pause, take a deep breath and talk to my skin and body like I would a friend. I thank my skin for working so hard and I release any pressure I’m feeling for it to look a certain way. My hormonal breakouts are a clue that my body is needing more support.

Seek help from professionals

I love a good health puzzle and enjoy researching and educating myself on how to best care for my body. But sometimes, professional help can do wonders. This was definitely the case when trying to determine how to clear hormonal acne.

So I went to the source and visited Dr. Elizabeth Geddes-Bruce. She recommended a couple of products that have given my skin the boost it needs. Additionally, she shared insights into breastfeeding-safe products and hormonal skin breakouts that helped piece together what was going on.

Acupuncturist and facialist Brooke Taylor at The Road Acupuncture is the best for looking at the skin holistically. A combination of traditional and cosmetic-focused acupuncture, microcurrent, gua sha, and facial massage always left my skin glowing, and breakouts cleared at record speed after a facial treatment.

For extractions, rather than taking matters into my own hands—literally—I made an appointment with a trusted facialist. I’m not quite at the point of doing monthly facials but am currently using them as a tool when my skin needs some extra TLC.

Get to the root of your hormonal acne

It’s quite common for skin to take a dive as a result of the postpartum-crashing hormones. This can lead to dry, easily irritated, and acne-prone skin. I learned a lot from Dr. Geddes-Bruce, who shared that, especially during breastfeeding, the hormone your body produces to stimulate milk (prolactin) leads to a state of lowered estrogen, which usually gives us that rosy glow during pregnancy. 

In general, there are a variety of things that can cause hormonal breakouts. Sometimes, the liver is needing more support to clear excess hormones or it can be caused by excess androgens (the more “male” related hormones that all women make in lesser amounts).

You can tell your breakouts are hormonal if they are deep, cystic, and affect areas where androgens exert their effects—the lower cheeks, jawline, chin, and neck. Dr. Geddes-Bruce’s top tips for hormonal acne include: 

• always cleansing your face before bed
• keeping a consistent, tailored skincare regimen
• avoiding picking

If you’re still having trouble with hormonal breakouts, you can also consider a trial of avoiding dairy and high-glycemic foods.

Change your pillowcase

I know, duh. But once again, post-baby life left me not as diligent as I usually would be. I try to change it every two to three days. To keep it simple, I keep a stack of a few clean pillowcases in my nightstand. I also try to do it in the morning while we’re making our bed so that I don’t skip when I feel too tired at night.

Go easy on your gut

I had reintroduced dairy after being dairy-free for over five years (and maybe did too much too fast). But the acne clued me in that I needed to back off and work on my gut some more before trying dairy again. I’ve focused on healing things like bone broth, fermented foods, daily collagen/gelatin, supplements like probiotics, and ION Biome. One of the easy ways I incorporate these items is a daily scoop of collagen into my morning chai and gelatin gummies for a quick snack. I’ve been able to add high quality, grassfed raw dairy and feel great!

Support your liver

Hormonal acne is often a symptom of liver congestion. Liver support is something I’m always doing, but I’ve worked to put a touch more effort in here. You don’t really want to do hardcore liver detoxing while nursing or pregnant. A few of the things I’ve loved for gentle support are herbs like milk thistle and dandelion root, dry brushing, and castor oil packs which support detox pathways. (I just started these castor oil packs at 18 months postpartum. Check with your doctor if pregnant or breastfeeding). I’ve also incorporated some acupuncture and chiropractic to help ensure my body is zinging along.

Keep your hands off your face

Unfortunately, I love picking at my face. I did a two-week challenge to not touch my face at all, except when I was doing my skincare routine. My skin looked better than ever! My aesthetician always says: stay a sink’s lengths away from your face. Nothing good happens when you lean in. And let’s be real, no one really is ever looking at your skin that close.

Double cleanse (and sometimes triple cleanse)

While I never go to bed without washing my face, my cleansing had gotten hurried and rushed and turned into a quick scrub and splash of water. Adding a double cleanse, with an oil cleanse as the first step, has been one of the keys to clearing my skin. I ordered a pack of 12 black cotton washcloths and have them all rolled up so I don’t have to stress about finding a clean towel. I wash them at the end of the week and they’re ready to go!

At night, I usually oil cleanse, then follow with a gentle exfoliating cleanser. From there, I’ll use a cotton round and a gentle toner to finish off my cleansing process before applying the rest of my skincare. In the mornings, I give my face a thorough splash with cold water, followed by a wipe down with a cotton round and my toner. I’ve found doing a traditional cleanse in the morning over-dried my skin and left it feeling tight.

Don’t underestimate the power of a simple clay mask

For now, I tucked away all my fancy fun masks and kept it simple with a clay mask a few times a week. I was inspired by Stephanie Liu Hjelmeseth’s routine of a daily clay mask. It’s cheap (like $12 for a tub that will last you forever cheap), effective, and cleanses without going overboard.

Keep skin hydrated

My skin has always leaned toward the drier side, which felt complicated since my skin was breaking out. I didn’t want to clog my pores but also did not want to dry out my skin and compound the issue. I started using a three-step hydration system that will level up your moisturizer game and be ultra-healing to the skin barrier and any acne.

• After cleansing, keep skin damp with water.
• Apply a spritz of toner for added hydration. (Add a hyaluronic serum here later on as skin tolerates it.)
• Lastly, layer on moisturizer.

How to Clear Hormonal Acne With Clean Products

Every product is curated with care by our editors and we’ll always give an honest opinion, whether gifted or purchased ourselves. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a small commission at no cost to you.

If it makes you happy, slather on all the products. But for most of us, a few well-formulated products are more than enough. During the healing process, I majorly paired back the products I was using and kept things simple for a few months. Thorough cleansing, moisture, consistency, and a little extra time have made a world of difference in clearing my skin. I honestly didn’t need anything too crazy intense to clear things up. I started with what I had then slowly tweaked a couple products that weren’t working for me.

My core skincare routine includes one of each: an oil cleanser, gentle cleanser, toner, and moisturizer.

Here are the clean products that have worked well for my skin to soothe, clear, and hydrate without creating congestion and breakouts.

Oil Cleansers

Living Libations Seabuckthorn Best Skin Ever Oil

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$41

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One Love Organics Botanical B Enzyme Cleansing Oil

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$42

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Monastery Sage Cleansing Oil

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$48

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Gentle Cleansers

iS Clinical Cleansing Complex

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$45

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Mother Dirt Probiotic Face Wash

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$24

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Toners

Indie Lee Co Q10 Toner

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$38

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Josh Rosebrook Hydrating Accelerator

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$35

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Vintner’s Daughter Active Treatment Essence

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$195

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Moisturizers

Tata Harper Water-Lock Moisturizer

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$68

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Andalou Clear Skin Argan Stem Cell Recovery Cream

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$18.74

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Vintner’s Daughter Active Botanical Serum

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$195

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The Actives

To take things to the next level, I added a couple more products to my routine. And now that my breakouts are calmed and under control, I’m slowly incorporating products to continue nurturing my skin and heal any discoloration left over. These are a few of the things I’m loving.

Azelaic acid

This is one of the key products that have helped calm and clear my skin. I first hit my skin hard with a cocktail of acids, hoping that would clear up the congestion. I soon realized that I overdid it, breaking down the skin barrier and further inflaming my skin and acne. I backed off all peels and acid formulas before carefully adding any back in. After my derm recommended it, I started using azelaic acid and found it to be the most gentle and effective so far.

The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%

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$11.10

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Hyaluronic serum

I’ve been layering this under my moisturizer for an added boost as I continue to repair and replenish my skin barrier. After a quick spray with my toner, I smooth this on before applying my moisturizer.

OSEA Hyaluronic Sea Serum

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$88

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Vitamin C

I love that the formula is a powder, which means it doesn’t need any potentially problematic preservatives. Plus, because it lasts quite a long time, you only need a tiny pinch. Mix into your serum or moisturizer for a potent boost in free radical protection, smoothing fine lines, brightening your complexion, and fading of any acne, scars, and pigmentation.

Agent Nateur Holi(C)

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$135

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Retinol

Now that I’m really backing off of breastfeeding, I’ve added a low 0.25% prescription tretinoin. I can already see an amazing difference. If you’re curious about safety during breastfeeding, I had the same question.

Dr. Geddes-Bruce shared that while most products that target acne are safe for breastfeeding mothers (granted that you aren’t applying them directly to your nipples), the only topical of question is retinoids. In general, most people avoid retinoids in nursing mothers. However, Dr. Geddes-Bruce believes that the data behind that decision is lacking. If you’re unsure, be sure to speak to your dermatologist. If you don’t have a prescription for it, the below retinoid serum is amazing for acne-prone skin.

This is really the only thing I’ll be dropping when I get pregnant again.

January Labs Triple Active Reclaiming Serum

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$86

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This post was originally published on July 4, 2021, and has since been updated.

The post My Clear Skin Journey: Here Are the Exact Steps I Took to Clear My Hormonal Acne appeared first on Camille Styles.

Lately, life has looked like a busy blur of travel. And while I’ve loved making memories, connecting with friends, and jumping into new experiences, perhaps the most unexpected result of life on the go has been how it’s motivated me to do a closet clean out. Let me explain. Over the past two months, I’ve been traveling at least every other week and living out of a suitcase. That means I’m rotating between the easiest and most versatile outfits that 1) fit in my carry-on and 2) effortlessly take me from day to night.

Those unicorn pieces include my favorite Freda Salvador slip-on sneakers, this cozy Frank & Eileen travel set for the flight, an old DOEN dress that has easily become my most-worn (and complimented) dress, a leather jacket, a few workout outfits, and anything that might be specific to the occasion whether a wedding or work trip.

Grabbing these staples weekly has illuminated the fact that a small portion of my closet is for my tried-and-true staples, minus a few special pieces. And the rest? Nothing seems to be getting worn—and the items are taking up too much precious closet space. Clearly, a closet clean out is calling my name.

Featured image by Teal Thomsen.

Need more tips for designing your life? Let Camille’s morning routine inspire your own.

5 Tips for an Effective Closet Clean Out

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve Kondo’d my place (yes, Marie Kondo and her KonMari method is now a verb), only to fill it back up with gifted goods from brands, more seasonal items that I thought I’d wear and didn’t, and sadly, the clothes that I mentally can’t get rid of because of how much I spent on them. Every time I walk into my closet, I’m met with overwhelm and sigh to myself: “I have too much!” 

Because I don’t have all the time in the world to tackle my closet and go into full-on spring (now summer) cleaning mode, here’s how I’m approaching Project Closet one step at a time. My best advice before you start? Be patient! Each step will take considerable thought and time, but doing this process thoroughly is the only way to create lasting change. Let’s get started!

Step 1: Start With the Items I Know I’ll Never Wear Again

I have an entire section of my closet filled with cycling kits and gear from my cycling days in 2015-2017. Want to guess the last time I hopped on my road bike? If you guessed 2017, you win. It’s been five years since I’ve “kitted up,” so the likelihood I’ll get on it anytime soon is very low. Thankfully, there’s a huge resale market for high-end cycling gear, so I know I’ll be able to make a little more money back. I’m saving two kits should the temptation to go for a ride ever strike. 

Step 2: Assess and Streamline All Duplicates

I reach for the same one cozy sweatshirt whenever I need to relax. Do I really need a closet full of 18 of them, most of which are stiff or not my style? Same with my multiple trench coats and workout tops. In this instance, more is not more and only takes up valuable real estate. The only thing that will stay are my white tees and tanks. I’m prone to spilling and always need a backup! 

Step 3: Edit the Items I Rarely Grab

A huge percentage of my closet is filled with clothes that I only grab once or twice a year. Mostly because it doesn’t fit (too big, too small, uncomfortable), but also because the style no longer suits me. For some reason, I have a really hard time with the fact that I don’t have the same style I did even a year ago. It can be difficult for me to let go of these pieces, especially if they were a big investment. If the item can be altered to fit again and I’d wear it, I’ll keep it. If not, it’s out! 

Step 4: Donate, Sell, Gift

ThredUp, Poshmark, eBay, Dress for Success, and pals. All options for me to either make a little money back, give to those in need, or gift to a friend I know would get use out of the products. I’ve been kicking my heels doing this because when I have free time, the last thing I want to do is take pictures for a website and have the product hang in my place. But it’s time. My goal is to take a few hours out of every weekend day and make it happen!

Step 5: Set Some Ground Rules for the Future

My sister has a friend who embodies a true minimalist attitude. If she goes shopping, she must remove the same number of items from her closet that she’s bringing into her closet. And she never buys something unless she can use it right now. She has a clear inventory on what she owns, unlike me who forgets about pieces for months at a time.

On another note, my fridge and pantry operate the same way, and I’m often buying the same thing twice because my organization is… non-existent. Sounds like I’ve just unlocked a clear need to hire a professional organizer! (Or take Camille’s kitchen organization advice!)

While the process feels daunting, nothing makes me feel more clear and grounded than a clean and beautiful home. If you’re hesitant to get started, know that I’m right there with you. Doing a full-on closet clean out is a lot, but trust that by removing clutter you’re freeing up space and time that you can devote to the things you love. Happy Kondo’ing!

The post “Help, My Closet Is Out of Control!” Take These 5 Steps to Curate a Wardrobe You Love appeared first on Camille Styles.

We completed our DIY raised garden beds last summer, and now that I’m deep into my second crop, I’m basically a gardening expert. KIDDING! I am still a relative newbie, but I will say that I have learned a ton over the last year as I’ve experienced some major gardening victories and fails. Yesterday, I was in the backyard staking my tomato vines and pruning branches, and I realized how far I’ve come in my gardening journey.

Since you guys have been along for the ride, I thought I’d share the top gardening tips for beginners I’ve learned so far. These have been key to my success, and I’ve got to say—my summer crop is on POINT. I’d love to hear if you guys are planting a garden this year, or if you have tips to share that I may have missed. Send me a DM to let me know! And now, read on for six tips that every gardening beginner should know.

1. Give your plants more space than you think they need

Before you begin planting, research each of your plants to find out exactly how big they will get and how much room you should leave between plants. Space them out accordingly to avoid overcrowding.

This was one of my first major fails when I planted my initial crop last fall. Initially, I made my plan using the square-foot gardening method and mapped out exactly where everything would go. Of course, it didn’t turn out to be quite so clear-cut. I bought way more plants at the nursery than I’d planned (they were all so beautiful!) and I ended up free-styling a bit to make them all fit. By the time my butternut squash reached “Little Shop of Horrors” status, it was too late and the massive plants choked out the poor bell pepper plants that I’d planted in the same bed.

In contrast this spring, I planted just five tomato plants in my 8-foot by 4-foot bed, and they had room to stretch, grow, and really thrive.

2. Make sure you have good soil

This is one of those basic gardening tips for beginners that makes a huge difference. If your soil is hard or feels like clay, your plants may not be able to grow roots. If this is the case, add fresh soil, mulch, and compost before planting, making sure to aerate as deep as you can.

We filled each of the vegetable beds with 16-20 bags of healthy, nutrient-rich potting soil.

3. Know your planting region

Do a quick internet search to find out what planting region your city falls under, then talk to someone at your local plant nursery to find out the best native plants for your region. These are the plants that will truly thrive. Sure, you can find this all online, however, I learned from experience that nothing beats asking a veteran gardener all your questions and listening to their hard-won gardening tips for beginners.

I did tons of reading about what will thrive in Austin’s Zone 8, knowing that our climate vacillates from incredibly hot to occasional hard freezes in the winter.

I decided to devote each of my raised beds to a different purpose: one for flowers, one for herbs, and one for vegetables. This helped me organize my brain to choose varieties of each that would thrive in Zone 8. However, as I become a more experienced gardener, I’ll start mixing up what goes in each bed since many plants love to be surrounded by different species.

4. Create a gardening calendar

After doing my research, I created calendar appointments to remind me of the correct timing for all my upcoming garden prep tasks. This might be fertilizing every eight weeks, planting seeds at the beginning of spring, or cutting back/pruning my plants at the end of their growing season. It helps me stay on schedule, plus I can set the calendar tasks to recur year after year and make notes of certain things I want to remember next time.

5. Stay on top of watering

My entire family used to make fun of my “brown thumb”—in the past, I’d kill every plant I bought. My obvious problem? I’d simply forget to water! Making sure to water frequently enough is key to keeping plants thriving, especially with newer plants. Be sure the water penetrates the soil—as opposed to just putting it on the surface. You want it to soak deep down into the roots.

For our current garden, we installed drip sprinklers so that even in the height of Texas summers, our plants would get consistently watered at their roots. Drip sprinklers are also a more eco-friendly choice since far less water evaporates into the air.

6. Enjoy the process

One thing that’s surprised me about this whole gardening journey? I actually really enjoy the maintenance phase of the garden, and it requires less work that I expected. Taking time a few days a week to deadhead, weed, and tidy up gives me an opportunity to get in my flow state and see which plants are thriving. Plus, I catch potential issues before they become major problems. The other day, I headed down to the garden and within 48 hours, caterpillars had decimated a couple of my lettuce heads. I quickly did my pest prevention research and treated the lettuce with a solution of vinegar and water to repel further caterpillar infestations.

And remember: with a garden, nothing goes perfectly! It’s nature, which means that there are so many elements out of your control (pests, weather, disease…). Enjoy the process. I do my best to not sweat the small stuff, instead noting my learnings so I can keep getting better and throw my experience into my next crop.

The post Gardening 101—How I Turned My Brown Thumb Green appeared first on Camille Styles.