Tweet us your favorite curling tips and tricks @BritandCo!
Tweet us your favorite curling tips and tricks @BritandCo!
Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
I'm officially ready to emerge from my winter haze and re-acclimate to warmer temps and being outside! First things first though, my hair has been pretty neglected over these dry and dehydrating winter months. In order to get my hair back to it's glossy and healthy normal for summer, I've been using leave-in conditioners to help re-store its shine.
Leave-in conditioners help so much to revitalize your hair and bring back some gloss to it, as well as helping get rid of its dried out state that can occur in winter. I asked some of my favorite hair experts what they think about leave ins: Are they a myth? Or do they really help? So keep reading to see what they say!
What are the benefits of leave-in conditioner?
Photo via Pexels/ Nataliya Vaitkevich
One of the best things leave-in conditioner does for you is moisturize dry or damaged hair. It helps to really lock in the moisture so that it can look healthier as well as preventing your hair from any future damage that it may be exposed to. Hair stylist and expert Marwa Bashir says this about leave-ins, "A leave-in conditioner is one of the most beneficial products for your hair. A leave-in conditioner will protect , moisturize and nourish all hair types. In my arsenal of products the first step for my wavy hair is always a leave-in conditioner, my favorite is SUNCATCHER from R+Co. This product is great to use on damp hair, as well as dry when the hair may feel a bit dehydrated."
Is leave-in conditioner good for your hair?
Photo via Pexels/Yan Krukau
Leave-in conditioner is great for your hair because it has time to really soak into the hair and soothe any dry or brittle ends you may have. It also strengthens any dry ends to allow them to get stronger and prevent them from breaking as easily in the future. It can also prevent your hair from damage via sun, rough sleeping, or heat. Our resident hair expert, Marwa Bashir says, "A leave-in conditioner layered over dry waves or curls can also help revive the shape of the coils or ropey waves." We love to hear that!
Briogeo Don't Despair Hair Treatment
I've been using this hair treatment for about two years now and it has to be one of the BEST things I've done with my hair care routine in a long time. I use a lot of heat from curling irons and blow dryers so my hair has a lot of dryness. I was looking for something that would help with my breakage and dead ends so I could grow out my hair more and this seriously worked like magic. It made my hair feel so hydrated just after two uses and now that I've been using it for so long, I don't think I can go back; it's just that good! Could not recommend this one more! Definitely add to cart.
Oribe Supershine Moisturizing Cream
With over 800 reviews at Nordstrom, most of which are 4 stars and above, this is one of the most highly-rated leave-in conditioners I've seen. It is certainly well loved with reviews saying things like, "Do yourself a favor and go ahead and order! This stuff is amazing! It adds tons of shine and closure to ends. Cuts out all frizz nicely. My hair feels great...not to mention, the smell is AMAZING! I have extremely thick hair and I literally use a dime size amount. I know it seems expensive up front, but it will last a long time. I’m hooked!!!" Wow that sounds like a stellar product to me!
Olaplex No. 3 Hair Perfector
This is one of those products I hate because it's so good!!! I used this once and genuinely noticed a big difference in my hair and hated that because of its more expensive price point. But I promise you, it actually does work and IS worth the hype unfortunately. Try it once and you'll see! The difference in your hair is immediate and game-changing. Another product that lives up to the hype!
Oribe Leave-In Detangler
Another amazing Oribe product that I love. This one can be used to help detangle your hair and smoothen it from any clumps to prevent further breakage. It just helps loosens up the hair and moisturizes it leaving it with a silky, smooth finish. This is a great one to use after the shower to give it an extra shine.
Moroccan Oil All-In-One Leave-In
This is a budget friendly option listed at only $14! It also has amazing reviews and is the complete package as an all-in-one item! It helps to detangle your hair, soften any breakage or split ends, and prevent damage from heat. It's also perfect for any and all hair types!
Aveda Nutriplenish Leave-In
Over 2300 stunning reviews?! Sign us up! This product is well-loved for a reason! Another hair product for all hair types but this one helps to protect from heat of up to 450 degrees! That sounds so ideal for me, as someone who frequently uses heat on her hair! I would say this one is perfect for you if you heat-style your hair often.
Curlsmith Weightless Air Dry Cream
Where are my beautiful curly-haired girlies at?! I have the most amazing leave-in conditioner for you that is only $12 and has incredible reviews. This mask is so helpful because it moisturizes your hair while improving your curl texture. We love a dual purpose! This mask is definitely a must for anyone with curly hair!
Since our hair expert Marwa Bashir said that leave-ins even work well on dry hair, we definitely recommend trying it that way to revitalize some of your curls for some extra bounce!
Aveda Botanical Intensive Strengthening Mask
If you have intense breakage or pretty frail hair like me then look no further! This mask does an amazing job of strengthening those frail, broken ends on your hair and preventing any further damage from occurring. I love it because I notice my hair get stronger and not have as many broken ends. It's also paraben-free which I love. You just leave it in for a few minutes and voila! Your hair is shiny and luxurious!
Now that your hair is on its way to looking luxurious, try out one of our Easy Hairstyles For Work!
Brit + Co. may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
Tenniscore fashion is on the rise – but what is it? In a post-Challengers, pre-summer Olympics world, tenniscore means taking your typical athleisure to the next level.
Tennis as a whole has a very distinctive uniform, and the fashion world has realized that a lot of what’s worn on the court can also stun off of it.
This trend revival is private country club luxury at its core (very Meredith Blake from The Parent Trap), but it’s not so exclusive now. With big brands like Target, H&M, andFree People taking on tenniscore, everyone can sport it.
Tenniscore is primarily pleated skorts, polos, sporty white dresses, striped sweatervests, thick headbands, and sleek sneakers. I’ve rounded up 17 comfy-chic (and affordable) styles to help you get the look!
Gold Hinge Steel Pleated Tennis Skirt
Pleats are a quintessential part of tenniscore. Super-fine pleats (like the ones on this skort from Gold Hinge) are totally the way to go if you wanna nail the trend. This pick features stretchy spandex shorts underneath for added coverage, pockets on both sides, quick-dry fabric, and an adorable drop-waist detail to further flatter your figure.
The Pleated Tennis Skirt goes for $49. It is available in 21 different colors and sizes XS-XXL.
Free People Movement One More Serve Skortsie
What's better than a skort? A skort dress. This one from Free People is an absolute serve, boasting a playful strappy back and contrasting trim that'll have all eyes on you! The built-in shelf bra and shorts deem this tenniscore piece a true one-and-done since you won't need to layer anything underneath.
The One More Serve Skortsie comes in 9 colors and sizes XS-XL for $128.
Lou & Grey Sporty Mesh Zip Sweater
This luxe-looking $48 sweater recalls the sport with a fine mesh knit, cap sleeves, and a pointy collar that zips up. The stark white color is tenniscore's perfect match, as a lot of the aesthetic leans into opulence, and therefore, cleanliness. The wider waistband can be worn tucked in or outside of skirts or shorts, depending on your preference.
This Lou & Grey Sporty Mesh Zip Sweater is on sale for $48 (was $80) and is available in sizes XXS-XXL.
Golden Hour Santa Barbara Tennis Association Cotton Graphic Baby Tee
If you're a bit unsure about going full-out into tenniscore with a short pleated skirt, ease into the aesthetic by sporting something more subtle, like this graphic baby tee! The illustrative lettering on the front feels opulent as ever, even though this is a super-cozy and casual style you could wear every single day.
This tee is currently on sale at Nordstrom for $10 (was $24) and is shoppable in sizes XS-XL.
Abercrombie & Fitch YPB sculptLUX Polo Mini Dress
The polo collar! The zipper! The sporty material! This butter yellow dress from Abercrombie & Fitch has it all. It's crafted from their sculptLUX active fabric, which is designed to hold you in and sculpt your bod in the best ways. The half-zip detail along the neckline allows you to get a lil' cheeky with your look, too. This mini features built-in shorts so you can feel appropriately covered up when you're on the go.
The Polo Mini Dress is available in three other easy-to-match colors and sizes XXS-XXL for $80.
Adidas Gazelle Sneakers
Any tenniscore 'fit absolutely warrants a sporty sneaker to match, and the Adidas Gazelles answer that call to a tee. The flat soles echo that of technical tennis shoes that the pros wear, while the rest of the silhouette aligns with the modern shoe trends we're seeing today. The triple-striped design on the sides is undeniably iconic, too!
The Adidas Gazelle sneakers come in 16 other color combos for $120.
Venus Williams x Bombas Quarter Sock 3-Pack
You'll surely need some socks to pair with your tenniscore-approved shoes, and there's no question that these Bombas ones made in collaboration with *the* Venus Williams are the ones to snag! Venus employed her pro-level understanding of the sport to create these practical socks that boast strategic cushioning, arch support, and a sweat-wicking material to leave you with a cozy step – on and off the court.
This 3-pack of socks goes for $57 and is currently available in sizes S and M.
H&M Oversized Sports Sweatshirt
For the perfect sporty outer layer to work, it needs to breathe. Luckily, this oversized pullover from H&M boasts a fast-drying cotton fabrication that surrounds the entire look. Casual dropped shoulders and long cuffed sleeves add to the laid-back vibe of tenniscore, and the front even boasts a motivational message – "move" – to keep you going!
The Oversized Sports Sweatshirt is shoppable in 4 other colors and sizes XS-XXL for $35.
Gold Hinge Bone 2-Toned Tiered Pleated Tennis Skirt
This tennis skirt is uniquely designed with a more scalloped hem –rather than a straight one – which provides ample coverage for your every move! The two-toned colorway adds some visual interest without feeling too out-of-place, plus this pick has built-in spandex shorts with pockets for conveniently storing your phone and other courtside essentials.
The Tiered Pleated Tennis Skirt is $54 and shoppable in sizes XS-XXL.
Prince Pickleball Cable Knit Cardigan
Target recently collaborated with Prince for a very tenniscore fashion collection, and it's everything! This cable knit cardi is a definite staple for rocking the sporty trend on chilly days. The buttoned front allows you to wear this cropped cardigan buttoned up or unbuttoned, or you could tie this striped baby around your shoulders for a true touch of luxury! The blue and red stripes are so classic, too.
The Prince Pickleball Cable Knit Cardigan comes in sizes XS-XXL for $40.
Kate Spade New York Sweetheart Delicate Cubic Zirconia Tennis Bracelet
I love a tennis bracelet as much as the next person, but I don't always love how expensive they are. Luckily, this gold-plated design from Kate Spade is fairly priced at $128, and it has adorable little hearts instead of the classic square cut. It clasps easily around the wrist with a tongue-and-groove closure, so it'll stay on when you're out and about (or even making moves on the tennis court)!
Adidas Originals Cotton Blend French Terry Shorts
These terry shorts host a very vintage feel, which pairs excellently well with more nostalgic tenniscore pieces, like a polo tank or sweater vest! The Adidas logo and side stripes really seal the deal on the sheer sportiness of these bottoms as well. The elastic waistband hits high on the body, securing further with a drawstring.
The Adidas Originals Cotton Blend French Terry Shorts go for $45 at Nordstrom and are available in sizes XS-XL.
Athleta Momentum Seamless Polo Tank
This Athleta polo tank is clean, sleek, and summery – perfect for nailing down the more luxe side of tenniscore! It flaunts a seamless construction to ensure total comfort when you're wearing it. The silhouette is designed to fit snugly against your body, though take note that the fabric is fairly see-through. You'll likely need a racerback sports bra for extra coverage and support!
The Momentum Seamless Polo Tank costs $55 and is shoppable in sizes XXS-XL.
Prince Pickleball Cross-Back Pleated Dress
The contrasting white lining that adorns this sporty dress looks just like the lines on a tennis court. Your look will be a great match for, well, your next match! This wide-pleated, strappy-back mini is an easy 'pull on and go' type piece that'll look stunning for every outdoor occasion. It even comes in a bright red color that your doubles partner could twin in!
The Prince Pickleball Cross-Back Pleated Dress is available in sizes XS-XXL for $40.
Prince Pickleball Woven Mid-Rise Shorts
These mid-rise shorts feel oh-so 70's, and I am obsessed with the stark color blocking between the hem and the rest of the piece. They're an easy on-and-off, boasting a wide elastic waistband. They're made from a "sporty tech poplin" that emphasizes the utmost breathability.
The Prince Pickleball Woven Mid-Rise Shorts cost $30 and come in sizes XS-XXL.
Oomiay Tennis Huggie Earring
Turn your accessory game to total tenniscore with this sweet racket earring! The tiny charm dangles delicately from a snapping hoop, helping you step up your serve even more. This $55 piece is sold in one piece (as opposed to a pair, with two pieces), but when you bundle 3 or more Oomiay jewelry pieces, each one is just $33.
Girlfriend Collective Riley Sweetheart Dress
The compressive unitard lining under this athletic mini dress keeps your look collected and expertly sculpted, no matter what movements you're doing. The sweetheart neckline and strappy back elevate it to be more fashion-forward, so you could easily dress it up further with more formal outerwear and accessories.
The Girlfriend Collective Riley Sweetheart Dress comes in 5 colors total and sizes XXS-6XL for $88.
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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
Shopping for your fave beauty products doesn't have to hurt your wallet, but it can be hard to weed out the best beauty deals that allow you to get more bang for your buck. That's exactly why we're here, bestie! We've scouredAmazon and got some juicy details from our exclusive sources to bring you this week's list of the absolute best beauty deals.
From skincare goods to makeup and hair care to bath time, we've got the scoop. Scroll to shop our go-to's! Here's a peek at some amazing beauty deals on Amazon this week.
Hair Care
Wavytalk Hair Dryer with Diffuser
Just when you thought the sleek, minimalistic design of this hair dryer was the best part about it, you'll be impressed to learn that it has an exceptionally powerful airflow that cuts your total drying time in half!
Kitsch Satin Heatless Curling Set
If you prefer to forego heated hairstyles, but still wanna flaunt some cute curls, try out these affordable silk heatless curlers. You can leave them in overnight or just for a few hours to reveal smooth, damage-free curls!
Revlon One Step Volumizer PLUS 2.0 Hair Dryer and Hot Air Brush
Revlon named this drying brush 'One Step' for a reason! With this single hair tool, you can dry and style all at once. It pushes through a constant stream of hot air to get the job done.
Kitsch Castor Oil Shampoo Bar for Hair Growth
This earth-friendly shampoo bar is great for at-home showers and traveling. Its solid formula eliminates any need for plastic bottles and will be a lot more mess-free inside your carry-on.
Jovs IPL Painless Hair Removal Tool
This tool delivers medical-grade hair removal right at home. It does boast a stronger energy level than most other hair removal tools on the market, but skin irritation isn't a concern since it's equipped with a stronger cooling system to help you avoid any burns or uncomfiness.
Hot Tools Pro Artist Black Gold Evolve Ionic Salon Hair Flat Iron
Available on Amazon for an entire 51% off, this pro-grade flat iron is a total step-up from your current hair tool. It's fitted with ceramic-titanium plates on the interior, and rounded barrels on the exterior that can be used to create seamless curls!
The Knot Dr. for Conair Wet and Dry Hair Brush
I hope it's not just me who thinks this, but paying anything upwards of $20 for a hairbrush feels criminal. And the fact that hairbrushes require frequent replacement just makes it worse. That's why I'm all about this deal. Save on this wet-to-dry hairbrush now!
Revlon One Step Root Booster Round Brush Dryer and Hair Styler
With a smaller barrel size than the first Revlon One Step tool I listed, this heated hair styler might be better suited for shorter haircuts and people with bangs. If your 'do requires a tighter curl or wave, this pick is for you!
Skincare
COSRX Snail Mucin 96% Power Repairing Essence
You've likely been bombarded with this skincare pick by now, but it's completely worth the viral hype! This snail mucin serum reduces dullness and soothes dry skin, which is much needed after a long winter.
grace & stella Illuminating Eye Masks
These cooling eye masks help de-puff the under-eye area with ease. They're easy and effective for combatting dark circles with regular use, and you get 6 pairs for around $15!
Solawave 4-in-1 Radiant Renewal Wand
This viral skincare wand feels like pure luxury! With red light technology, warming properties, and a facial massage setting, the Solawave reportedly helps reduce the appearance of fine lines, blemishes, puffiness, and dark circles in just a few minutes a day.
Moon Juice Acid Potion AHA and BHA Liquid Exfoliator
This is my favorite exfoliator I've ever tried, and I use it multiple times weekly because it's just such a treat. Not too harsh, but not too light, either. Formulated with AHA and BHA exfoliants, this liquid acts like a chemical exfoliator / toner for buffing away dry, dead skin. You'll only use a dime-sized amount each time to reveal cleaner skin, meaning this big ol' bottle is gonna last you for a loooong time.
TruSkin Vitamin C Face Serum
This vitamin C serum is also equipped with hyaluronic acid and vitamin E that increase its efficacy towards dark spots, fine lines, and uneven skin tone. It's formulated to be extra-gentle on the skin, so it's light enough for every day use. This is gonna be a huge game-changer in your skincare routine, bestie!
Neutrogena Sunscreen Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch SPF 70
Sunscreen is a must as the sun starts to peek out more and more. This lightweight one from Neutrogena is perfect for lathering up the face and body, so it's a good tube to throw in your purse for spring and summer excursions – just in case you need to reapply your SPF. It's formulated to be sheer, too, so no white cast here, babes!
Bliss Disappearing Act Niacinamide Serum
This pore-minimizing and skin barrier-strengthening serum from Bliss is so good. Since it's meant to blur your pores, it makes for a great primer before you put on base makeup. The brand has a few other formulas that tackle different skin concerns like dryness, dullness, and renewal.
Covergirl Facial Mist with Rose Water and Vitamin C
A floral facial spray will never not feel like a treat for your skin, and this rosewater one from Covergirl also mists with a dash of vitamin C to hydrate and improve your skin's texture.
Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Water
This pick from Bioderma is a #1 best-seller on Amazon. With over 40,000 5-star ratings, users love it because it's super effective at both removing makeup and cleansing the skin in one easy step!
innisfree Cherry Blossom Dewy Glow Face Moisturizer
As opposed to a traditional face cream, this jelly cream from innisfree feels sheer and light on the face, all while soaking into the skin to provide exceptional hydration. The adorable packaging and sweet scent of cherry blossom makes this skincare deal all the better!
Mario Badescu Moisturizing Lip Balm Set
This set gets you a trio of extremely nourishing lip balms formulated with a thicker consistency for longer wear and deeper hydration. If you can't go a day without lip balm, this beauty deal is the perfect chance to stock up!
Neutrogena Beach Defense Water-Resistant Face & Body SPF 70 Sunscreen
You just can't skip the SPF for any upcoming beach or pool days! This SPF 70 one is designed to be water-resistant, so you can do all the swimming and splashing you please before reapplying every hour or so.
Hustle Butter Tattoo Aftercare Travel-Size Tattoo Balm
Since spring and summer call for you to show more skin, this tattoo care balm might just become your secret weapon in making your body art pop. You can use it past tats, too, as it's superiorly hydrating and nourishing on the skin.
Nails
Orange Tip Press-On Almond Nails
Gotta love an at-home mani that only takes a few steps! With these electric orange press-ons, your nails will transform in just a few minutes.
NYK1 Super Strong Nail Glue For Nail Tips, Acrylic Nails and Press On Nails
If you are a big press-on nail girly, having a strong nail glue is important for applying and reapplying. This one from NYK1 brushes on, so it's very easy and mess-free to use, and the wear will last you days upon days.
OPI Nail Lacquer in Blinded by the Ring Light
Spring nail colors are in full swing, so make sure you snag some pastel-y nail polish on sale like this pick from OPI!
Sunuv UV Light for Nails
If you've completely moved past the nail salon into fully-fledged at-home manis, this UV LED light is a must for curing and setting your hard work! There aren't any buttons on this tool, but it instead has a motion sensor that prompts the light to turn on. Furthermore, it emits non-ultraviolet light that is safe for your skin and eyes!
Gaoy Icy Jelly 6-Piece Gel Nail Polish Set
Neutral nails just got a makeover with this beauty deal! With the jelly-like formula, you're able to layer this gel nail polish to create a customized color look.
Sally Hansen Miracle Gel Moonlit Top Coat
For a bit more sparkle, this multicolored glitter top coat brings some fun to your basic solid polish.
Makeup
Covergirl Lash Blast Clean Volume Mascara
This Covergirl mascara is insane! Plus, the fact that it's made without parabens, sulfates, talc, or mineral oil is amazing. The fully-vegan formulation also boasts a mix of argan and marula oils for nourishment to your lashes.
Wonderskin Wonder Blading Peel Off Lip Stain
This viral lip stain is on a beauty deal, which means you have to see what the hype is about! This peel-off lip stain goes on dark, but then reveals a perfectly even, saturated lip color underneath. It's truly the best-kept secret to long-lasting makeup looks.
Grande Cosmetics Brow Lamination Gel
Laminated brows are still so in right now, and this clear brow gel will help you achieve the look in no time. A little goes a long way with this product, which means it's an investment worth making for months worth of sleek, slicked-back brows.
The Face Shop Fruta Veil Glow Blush
This adorable glowy blush will give you the spring flush of your dreams! It's made with fine, sparkling particles that emit a very illuminated look.
Versed Mood Lighting Luminizing Glow Drops
In the same vein of looking glowy AF, these skin drops from Versed are the perfect one-stop-shop to shining! Just a few drops will give your face, neck, and collarbones a lively effect, perfect for donning this spring and summer as it starts to warm up.
Hydrating Moisturizing Lip Glow Oil
A seemingly dupe of one of the most popular lip oils on the market, this chunky tube is amazing at hydrating and plumping the lips, all while providing a subtle pink sheen. It comes in a few other fun shades / flavors, too, like green apple and aloe!
NYX Ultimate Paradise Shock Eyeshadow Palette
Make those beautiful eyes pop by using this versatile shadow palette from NYX! It has a good array of brights and neutrals that'll serve you past the spring and summer seasons.
Shop even more beauty deals on our Amazon storefront!
Images via Amazon.
Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
This post has been updated.
Nothing's more irritating than having to throw out fresh fruit you just bought because it either ripened too fast or was already festering with mold. And what food is the biggest culprit? Usually, it’s bananas. Unless you're fitting bananas in your everyday meal routine, it’s difficult to keep up with how quickly they brown (which can be anywhere from 24 hours to five days, depending on how green they were at the store when you grabbed them).
The good news is that there’s actually a lot you can do with overripe bananas. We turned to chefs for top tips (both creative and delicious) that will prevent you from throwing speckled bananas in the trash!What To Do With Overripe Bananas
Image via Butternut Bakery
Banana Bread, Obviously
One of the most widespread baking recipes to make with overripe bananas is banana bread. Why? Because it’s simple, delicious, and an automatic crowd-pleaser. Check out our one bowl gluten-free banana bread recipe, our chocolate banana pumpkin bread, or these 40 recipes of banana bread that you need to make this weekend (the options are endless!).
(Writer’s note: My go-to recipe is the chocolate chip banana bread from Butternut Bakery — but I use dark chocolate chips instead!)Image via Half Baked Harvest
Freeze Them For Your Smoothies
When in doubt, put your overripe bananas in the freezer. Then you’ll at least have time to think on what to do with them—and you can throw them in your morning smoothies. Bananas last up to three months in the freezer ideally, and pair well with a variety of different flavor profiles, like caramel, blueberry, chocolate, or orange.
This strawberry-banana colada smoothie from Half Baked Harvest may just be your new fav, or the cloudy summer smoothie which doubles as an Erewhon smoothie dupe. Chef Chris Morgan of Joon restaurant in Washington D.C. advises using overripe bananas and other raw fruits for your children at home (he makes little smoothies for his 7-month old baby—pure genius!).
Image via Food Faith Fitness
Make Banana Cookies
Substitute the flour for bananas in your baking with some tasty cookie options. The plus side of banana cookies is that they are often automatically gluten-free and can easily become dairy-free (but always check first!). These easy peanut banana oatmeal cookies from Food Faith Fitness are a great option. If you’re looking to ditch the peanut butter, try out these 4-ingredient banana oat cookies from Livvin Media.
Image via Kathryn's Kitchen Blog
Ice Cream, Anyone?
There is nothing better than sorbet or ice cream in the summer months. All you really need is frozen ripe bananas, any other frozen fruit you prefer, milk (whichever kind you enjoy— almond, oat, etc.) and some sweeteners like honey or vanilla extract. To fit your health goals, you can even throw in protein powder. This strawberry nice cream from Kathryn’s Kitchen Blog only has five ingredients!
Image via Butternut Bakery
Upgrade Your Breakfast
Pancakes, overnight oats, and muffins are all incredibly tasty options to use up those ripe bananas and upgrade your breakfast game. Try Butternut Bakery’sbanana nut muffins for a quick snack or these healthy chia banana pancakes from Half Baked Harvest for a savory morning bite. You can also sift through Brit + Co’s 17 overnight oats recipes — keep in mind that overnight oats only last a few days in the fridge, though!
Photo by Anna Tarazevich/PEXELS
Make Dog Treats
Don’t leave out your furry friends— they love bananas too! Making long-lasting dog treats “relieves the pressure on the idea of food waste, plus there is a bonus that your pets are spoiled, happy, and nutritiously rewarded,” says pastry chef Susan Bae of the critically-acclaimed restaurant, Moon Rabbit in Washington D.C. Check out her go-to dog treat recipe below:
Chef Susan Bae’s Dog Treat Recipe:
250g organic whole wheat flour
240g organic peanut butter
70g organic, unsweetened apple sauce
56g mashed overripe banana
113g organic plain bone broth
25g organic shredded cheddar cheese
25g freeze dried blueberries
Preheat oven to 350F.
1.) Mix to combine whole wheat flour, peanut butter, apple sauce, bone broth and banana. Until a dough is lightly formed.
2.) Fold in shredded cheese and dried blueberries to evenly distribute in dough.
3.) Roll dough out to 1/4” thickness and use your favorite cookie cutters to cut out treats.
4.) Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper and bake dog treats until firm and dry to touch (this varies with each oven) Check at 45 minutes.
5.) Store at room temperature for up to 1 week in an airtight container or in the fridge for up to 3 weeks.
Need more recipe inspo? Sign up for our weekly email newsletter for even more!
Header image via Half Baked Harvest
Are you a small business owner looking for a good loan to grow your business? California Small Business Loan Match makes it easier to find the right loan for you. Loan Match pre-vets mission-driven lenders and matches you with the best lender for your business, at no-cost. Get started in less than 10 minutes with a brief pre-application and no credit check required!
Loan Match is powered by IBank, a state government agency that helps to promote healthier economies and improve quality of life in California communities. All lenders are enrolled in IBank’s Loan Guarantee Program, which helps bridge the gap between responsible lenders and small businesses.
Photo by RDNE Stock project
Wondering if you're eligible? Any business operating in the state of California, with 1 to 750 employees, is eligible. You just need to be a business entity (Sole Proprietor, LLC, Cooperative, Corporation, Partnership, S-Corporation, or Not-For-Profit), and operate in an eligible industry according to the 2022 NAICS codes (read: a legit business).
Here’s how it works:
Step 1: Fill out a short pre-application questionnaire that takes just minutes to complete. No credit check required!
Step 2: Based on your eligibility, they’ll match you with lenders who fit your needs.
Step 3: Review details about each lender, select the one you like, and they’ll connect you with them.
Step 4: The lender will reach out within three business days to complete the application process. (You’ll also get their contact info so you can follow up directly.)
Most California Small Business Loan Match lenders are certified as Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs), which means they offer competitive rates but specialize in helping borrowers who don’t meet the rigid lending criteria of traditional banks — for example, small businesses that have a lower credit score, a prior defaulted loan, or no up-front collateral. CDFIs specialize in helping people in lower-income communities too, and offer a much more flexible and affordable repayment plan than online lenders or Merchant Cash Advance (MCA) loans.
Check them out to help you grow your business, meeting our mission to help you succeed! Good luck!
Hero photo by Amina Filkins