When it comes to aging, you better trust and believe that Black does crack.
I know when you read that sentence you probably laughed. Hard. Because Taraji Henson, Gabrielle Union, Nia Long, and Sanaa Lathan don’t look a day over 30. It’s true, each of the women I have just named, and more, are very gorgeous women of color who have aged beautifully. But when they are out of the spotlight, they’ve at the least thought about what their aging skin would look like.
Most all women struggle with trying to maintain a youthful look no matter what their race is. It’s not even shocking anymore when women in Hollywood talk about the cosmetic procedures they’ve undergone. And now, many women who aren’t in the limelight are looking to get a little nip and tuck as well as a few fillers to maintain their youthful appearance.
I've heard of my fair share of procedures, but when I discovered Vampire Facials and Vampire Facelifts --two different cosmetic procedures that entails taking blood from one’s own body and injecting or brushing it on their faces --I just knew that cosmetic surgery had gone to Hell wearing gasoline panties.
But I was curious, and wanted to know if this was some kind of farce, or if it was a legitimate means of maintaining younger, healthier looking skin.
I started my research by Googling “WTF is a Vampire Facial or Vampire Facelift,” and saw a lot of scientific mumbo jumbo that makes the procedure sound scarier than what it actually is. Fortunately, I was able to speak with Dr. Robert Bowen, a West Virginia-based doctor who specializes in cosmetic medicine and body contouring. He confirmed that the procedure isn’t as bad as it sounds.
The differences between a Vampire Facial and the Vampire Facelift are many, but they share one main similarity--they’re both anti-aging cosmetic procedures.
When you get a Vampire Facial, the doctor will take about four tablespoons of your blood - sort of like what happens when you get lab test - and will then put it in a machine for about 10 minutes. That machine’s job is to isolate the Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) from your blood for about 10 minutes.
PRP is as important as nectar is in a mango. Among other uses, medical doctors have been using PRP for years as a clinical tool to treat nerve injury, tendonitis, osteoarthritis, bone repair, alopecia, and sports injuries.
Dr. Bowen says that after the PRP is separated, a micro-needle device is used to create thousands of tiny micro-punctures in the skin, driving the isolated PRP growth factors into the skin, and creating stimulus for tightening and rejuvenating collagen in the face. After that, the doctor paints something on your face. But that’s the kicker--it’s the part of your blood that regenerates new cellular growth.
Dr. Bowen says that what the doctor is doing is painting growth factors onto the micro-punctures, so the growth factors soak into the tissue for further stimulation of tightening and skin rejuvenation.
It doesn't seem that bad, and it’s actually the same procedure that Kim Kardashian had done in one episode of Keeping Up With The Kardashians. Yes, she ugly cried when she got her procedure done, which is weird to me because one of the first steps in the process involves numbing your face.
What I can tell you is that the results are astounding, and the reviews for it are very positive. From what I can tell, women with grayish looking skin have improved color, natural rosy cheeks, and the best part is that they don't have to wear foundation if they don't want to, because their skin looks almost flawless.
ReallyRee, a Beauty Vlogger from the UK, said that she was impressed with the results, but it should be noted that this is not a permanent solution. She also said that doctors suggest two to three treatments per year, and then annually to maintain your look.
"I really loved the results of the PRP - it really improved the texture of my skin, I think my pores were less visible and my skin seemed firmer. It was also really clear and radiant – especially after about 4-6 weeks post treatment."
With the Vampire Facelift, your blood is drawn like you’re about to get a lab test, and then the doctor spins it in a machine called a centrifuge that separates the PRP. Afterward, the doctor injects it into parts of your face. It’s like kind of a natural version of Botox.
It may sound a little gimmicky, especially because of the name, but Dr. Bowen says there’s no gimmicks about the procedure, and the results speaks for itself.
“This is a technique that we use for wound healing,” Dr. Bowen said. “Those tissues are no different than the ones on our skin. The only thing gimmicky thing about it is the name, but not the procedure itself.”
Knowing this made me think that this is a procedure that Black women would never do, because we age so gracefully, however, Dr. Bowen said that a lot of Black women got the procedure done.
“The Vampire Facelift is something that could benefit everybody, from fair skin to dark skin.”
The bomb had been dropped when he said that.
I immediately wanted to know why a Black woman would put her blood back into their face. When I searched for some proof, I found a video of a Black woman who swears by them. Her name is Khanyi Mbau, and she is a South African television personality, actress and socialite, who took South African entertainment show Star Gist behind the scenes during her procedure.
SATISFACTION GUARANTEED
Dr. Charles Runels, who has been credited as the father of Vampire Facelifts, says he's studied this procedure for years, and that he's committed to creating better ways to improve the procedure. He said in a blog post,
I’ve conducted many research trials and worked as a research chemist before medical school—my job is to find the best materials and the best methods and keep working to make the service better.
If you're sold on the procedures, the Vampire Facial will set you back about $500 to $600 dollars, and the Vampire Facelift will run you between $1600 and $1800 dollars (depending on where you live). In comparison, Botox is a little cheaper, and averages about $250-$500 per treatment, depending on the physician, location, units purchased, promotions, etc.
In the end, people will always be searching for a fountain of youth. Until then, Vampire Facelifts or Facials are definitely natural alternatives for a more youthful look, and the procedures are sure to evolve in the years ahead.
Have you ever had a Vampire Facelift or Facial, and what did you think about it? If not, would you get one?
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It's easy for couples to fall into a routine, going through the motions and letting their connection sit on autopilot. While comfort is natural in a long-term relationship, it’s important to remember: that what you don’t nurture, eventually fades. So, why not make 2025 the year you reset your relationship? Here’s how to start the year with a renewed bond, reigniting the spark that brought you together.
Step 1: Schedule Your Reset Meeting
The first step to hitting the reset button is a State of the Union meeting with your partner. This is your chance to take a pulse on the relationship, discuss what's working, and identify areas that need attention. It’s all about creating space to reflect, without distractions.
Grab a pen and paper (or open a shared note on your phone) and come prepared to share your top 2-3 desires for your relationship.
What do you both want to feel more of in 2025? Maybe it’s feeling more appreciated, or perhaps you want to reignite the passion you had when you first started dating. Whatever it is, get clear about it, and make sure both of you are on the same page.
This isn’t just about listing your own wants, it’s also about discussing ways to nurture each other’s needs. Relationship goals should be focused on fostering deeper intimacy, trust, and mutual respect. Use this time to check in, not only with each other but with your individual feelings and expectations. Set the foundation for a fulfilling year ahead.
Alistair Berg/Getty ImagesStep 2: Set A Date (Or Multiple!)
Having the meeting is only the first step. Now, it’s time to take action. One of the simplest ways to breathe new life into a relationship is by reintroducing consistent, intentional time spent together. For many couples, life gets busy, and date nights fall by the wayside. But dating doesn’t stop when you say "I do"—in fact, it’s even more essential.
During your reset meeting, lock in a regular date night that works for both of your schedules. This could be a weekly dinner date or an every-other-week adventure—whatever keeps things fresh. The goal is consistency. It’s easy to push date nights aside when life gets hectic, but if you set a specific date each week or month, you’re making your relationship a priority.
If you’re unsure what to do for your date nights, don’t worry! The key is creating new experiences together. This is what sparks excitement and brings you closer as a couple. Whether it’s cooking a new recipe together, trying a dance class, or exploring a nearby town, it’s about creating shared memories that build your connection.
Getty ImagesStep 3: Find an Accountability Partner
Just like you might have a personal trainer to help you crush your fitness goals, an accountability partner for your relationship can do wonders for keeping both of you on track. Consider hiring a marriage coach or therapist—someone who can meet you where you are and guide you in strengthening your relationship.
When selecting a professional, it’s important to choose someone who truly wants the best for your marriage and can provide actionable advice.
Don’t be afraid to set high standards for your relationship, and seek guidance on how to keep it thriving for the long haul. In your reset meeting, discuss your commitment to growth, and be honest about areas where you may need support.
Marriage isn’t a set-it-and-forget-it endeavor—it’s an ongoing process. Regular check-ins with a professional can help keep your relationship in tip-top shape and “divorce-proof” by addressing issues before they become insurmountable.
DMP/ Getty ImagesStep 4: Try Something New Together
Stale routines can easily make a relationship feel monotonous. Spice things up by trying something new! Couples that explore new activities and create new memories together have stronger, more fulfilling bonds.
My husband and I host one of the top luxury marriage retreats, A Weekend For Love, designed to help couples experience new things together. From couples' workshops to outdoor adventures, the retreat provides a platform to rediscover each other and reconnect on a deeper level.
The element of surprise can reignite your connection. It’s exciting, fresh, and shows your partner that you’re committed to growing together. This doesn’t have to be a huge commitment—it could be as simple as trying a new hobby or planning an impromptu weekend getaway.
Your Relationship Should Be A Priority
As you start the year with personal goals in mind, don’t forget the importance of nurturing your relationship. It’s easy to get caught up in work, fitness, and family obligations, but your bond with your partner deserves to be at the top of your list. Resetting your relationship offers an opportunity to reignite that spark and remind each other why you fell in love in the first place.
In 2025, make a commitment to prioritize your partnership, to nurture it daily, and to invest in its growth. Take time to celebrate each other’s victories, support one another’s dreams, and build a foundation of love and respect. When you start the year with a clear focus on your relationship, you’re setting it up for success.
So, before you start mapping out your new workout plan or work goals, do yourself a favor: put your relationship at the top of that list. Your love story deserves a fresh start, too.
Happy New Year, and here’s to a love-filled 2025!
Couples, if you are ready to do the work and invest in your relationship register for A Weekend For Love: Heart Retreat Feb 21-23, 2025.
Featured image by zamrznutitonovi/Getty Images
However, to my surprise, I received an email that read: “It’s with great excitement that we announce your film, Super High: A Period Piece, has been selected for the 24th Anchorage International Film Festival.” After looking at the flight distance from Atlanta to Anchorage—a solid 10 hours one way— I’d decided this would be one I wouldn’t attend.
That was until there was a follow-up email that shared that the festival was sponsoring two excursions for filmmakers: A Northern Lights Tour and A Glacier Hike.
With that, I knew I had to make the trip to the 49th state! I flew Delta, which offered the shortest layovers—just 50 minutes each way. For a more comfortable flight on the longer legs that were about six hours between my layover city and Anchorage, I upgraded to first class with an in-app discount for $256 (the regular price of a first-class ticket runs about $2,100), which was so worth it for additional space and service for the six-hour trek.
Courtesy of Bianca Lambert
"So What’s Alaska Like? Did You Have To Wear a Snowsuit? What’s the Food Like?"
These are among the major questions I’ve gotten. Anchorage reminds me less of a bustling major city and more of a small town with an easygoing feel. When I arrived, they’d just had snow a few days before, so it was cold, and the streets were slick. So, I was so happy I’d invested in a pair of snow boots. For my first few days, the locals said it was warm. Warm to them being 20s at night and mid-30s during the day.
However, by the time I left, fresh snow was on the ground, and temps were well into the single digits—and it felt like it. Oh, the sun doesn’t rise until 10:30 a.m., and it sets around 4 p.m. That was among the most challenging things to experience because I felt like I never really woke up. So, between the lack of sun and the four-hour time difference, I felt tired the whole time I was there.
As for food, I didn’t explore a ton because I was so cold. But I found two gems! First was Whiskey and Ramen. If you enjoy ramen and exceptional service, this is a must-visit. I’d make a trip back just for their Wagyu ramen and their special take on an old fashion!
And, for coffee, I thoroughly enjoyed That Feeling Co. The coffee was great, and being surrounded by plants helped to perk up my spirits.
The Northern Lights
Iceland is one of the most popular places to see the Northern Lights, so I was very excited to know that Alaska also gets to see the Aurora Borealis light show. Typically, many people visit Fairbanks to see them, but there are tours offered in Anchorage too! When prepping for the late-night tour, we’d heard that the night we were heading out to see the lights, the cloud coverage likely meant we wouldn’t be able to see them. Bummer. I know. So, we could sit the tour out or still try. But, in my mind, I was like, why would I come all the way to Alaska not to try?
So, at about 9:30 p.m., we piled into vans and headed out to chase the Northern Lights. We traveled about an hour and a half from Anchorage, and when we stepped out of the van, it was cold and pitch black. And unfortunately, after a couple of hours in the cold, those clouds in the sky never parted for us. I know that when we see the posts of people who do get to see Mother Nature do her thing, we don’t have all of the context of the science, which is Aurora Borealis.
Sometimes, the weather just doesn’t do what we earthlings would like, which can lead to disappointment. However, our guide did give a recommendation. When you book a trip to see the lights, give yourself four to five days to see them. Don’t bank on one day because, at the end of the day, this is science.
Courtesy of Bianca Lambert
Now, On to the Glacier!
Just six hours after returning from the Northern Lights tour, we were up for the glacier tour because they were back-to-back! I was exhausted and so excited. If someone had told me I’d hike on a glacier, I would have given them a mean side-eye. I mean, where on earth does one climb a glacier? Let me share a few destinations with you, just in case you want to plan an icy adventure: Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Chile, Argentina, and Alaska.
Aside from the fact the Matanuska Glacier is 22,000 years old, it’s the largest glacier accessible by car in the United States—27 miles long and four miles wide, making it one of the easier ones to see IRL. As a girlie with generalized anxiety disorder, I get anxious about doing this kind of thing because I know that to see these world wonders is usually a mountainous trek.
This one was two hours long, one-way, up snow-capped, windy, mountainous terrain. However, my therapist always reminds me to push myself to do what scares me (as long as it’s for a reason, of course). I held my breath for the journey there and back! And white-knuckled it from time to time, too.
Courtesy of Bianca Lambert
Once we got there, we were surrounded by fresh, fluffy snow, and it was COLD! In the negative cold. I was thankful, I’d over-prepared. If you even go on a glacier tour, I recommend a few things: Balaclava, heavy-weight gloves, cashmere socks, snow boots, and lots of layers.
Here’s what I wore. My first layer was Ann Taylor leggings and a Wolford Turtleneck. Then, I layered a cashmere turtleneck and cashmere joggers. A COACH down vest, which I’d recommend anyone own just for winter, in general, because it’s SO warm! For my feet, I wore Ann Taylor cashmere socks (I love these because they’re affordable and so warm) and Adidas Adifom Superstar Winter Boot and topped all of that with a Brandon Blackwood ankle-length parka. I know BB is known for his accessories, but the brand’s outwear is truly amazing and worth the investment. After two hours on the ice, I felt great!
If you’re open to adventure travel, I highly recommend putting a glacier tour on your list of things to do. There are a few reasons. First, standing on an ice age-old massive piece of glacier was my 2024 version of touching some grass. I was reminded that I’m a speck on this spinning rock and need to spend more time grounded in that fact as I move through the world. I looked to the sky and thought of how proud my ancestors would be, even though I know they’d be telling me to get my butt home and off a dog on a glacier!
Secondly, I gained an ever-large appreciation for Mother Nature as I learned that glaciers are the world's largest reservoir of freshwater, containing around 69% of the world's freshwater. Again, another fact that helped me gain perspective. Lastly, it’s just fun and stunningly beautiful!
After this, I’m looking forward to my next cold-weather adventure! Iceland and Argentina are at the top of the list!
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Featured image courtesy of Bianca Lambert