Tracee Ellis Ross, an award-winning actress and founder of PATTERN Beauty, has expanded her brand beyond haircare. She recently introduced PATTERN Body Skincare, a collection designed to nourish the skin with the same care her first line brought to hair.

Ross first introduced PATTERN in 2019, the brand stood out for prioritizing textured hair. Unlike many haircare lines, that focused mainly on straight or loose wavy strands, PATTERN was formulated for curls, coils and tighter textures. From conditioners to hydrating shampoos and nourishing creams, the brand quickly gained recognition for offering a full range dedicated to natural hair. Now with her step into skin care, she intends to bring that level of inclusivity to body care.

Photo: @Tracee-instagram

The new body line includes a dry exfoliating scrub, rich cream, hydrating lotion, body wash, and a nourishing oil. All formulas were made with moisture in mind. Natural ingredients such as shea butter, jojoba oil, and vitamin E are used in all the collections, making the products both effective and gentle.

Photo: @Tracee-instagram

Each product is also infused with PATTERN’s new “Midnite Amber” scent—a warm and sensual fragrance that’s unique to the body line.

Tracee describes PATTERN Body as a way of introducing self-love into every part of our lives. She said “Body is for anyone who wants to nourish, honor and celebrate their bodies. The collection is about allowing you to slough off with the scrub, a layer that might be keeping you hidden, giving your skin a chance to find inner radiance.” Her message emphasized treating the skin with the same care and respect traditionally given to hair.

Photo: @Tracee-instagram

The inspiration behind PATTERN Body is to help everyone to feel hydrated, soft, radiant, and above all, be confident in their skin.

Dark circles are a very common concern among people of all ages and backgrounds. It is often associated with tiredness, stress, or lack of sleep. They can also stem from a variety of lifestyle, genetics and health related issues. Dark circles are a shadowy or discolored area that appear beneath the eyes. It can be blue, purple, brown, or black in colour depending on your skin tone and the underlying cause of the dark circles.

The skin under the eyes is thinner and more delicate than the skin on other parts of the body and this makes it more susceptible to changes in blood flow. pigmentation, and hydration. While dark circles are not typically a sign of serious medical issues, they can affect self esteem and appearance and that is the reason why many seek for solutions to it.
Meanwhile, let us explore some causes of dark circles.

Causes of Dark Circles

There is no exact or single cause of dark circles as it is usually a combination of a number of factors. Some causes of dark circles include:

Genetics.

For a number of people, dark circles are hereditary. If any of your parents have dark circles, you are most likely to develop them too. This is because genetic dispositions can influence skin thickness, pigment levels, and other skin issues.

Lack of Sleep.

This is probably the most popular cause of dark circles. Inadequate sleep can cause the skin to look pale, allowing blood vessels beneath the skin to become more visible and give the appearance of dark circles.

Aging.

As we age, our skin loses collagen and becomes thinner. The loss of skin elasticity exposes the blood vessels beneath the skin, causing dark circles.

Dehydration.

When the body lacks water, the skin under the eyes can look dull and sunken, making dark circles more prominent.

Exposure to the Sun.

Overexposure to the sun can increase melanin production, especially in delicate areas of the eyes, leading to pigmentation and darkening.

How to Avoid Dark Circles.

Now that we have figured out some of the causes of dark circles, here are a few ways to avoid them.

Prioritize Sleep.

Beyond avoiding dark circles, adequate sleep is important for your overall health. You should aim for 7-9 hours of sleep, keep a consistent sleep schedule, avoid screens for at least 30 minutes before you fall asleep and create a calm sleeping environment.
This would keep you well rested and keep dark circles away from your eyes.

Adequately Hydrate.

Since we have discovered that dehydration is a leading cause of dark circles, it is important to drink plenty of water throughout the day to improve skin elasticity.
Drink at least 2 litres of water daily, eat fruits rich in water such as cucumber, watermelon, oranges, etc and reduce intake of dehydrating substances like caffeine.

Use Cold Compress.

Cold temperature constricts blood vessels and reduces swelling. To use, place chilled teaspoons, cucumber slices, ice block, or a gel eye mask on your eyes for 10-15 minutes. Then, repeat in the morning to reduce puffiness and dark circles.

Protect your Eyes Against Sun Exposure.

As sun rays is one of the leading causes of dark circles and aging, it is important to protect yourself from the sun.
You can do this by always wearing sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, even on days that are not sunny. You can also use sunglasses to protect yourself from UV radiation.

Putting these steps to action, you can as well say goodbye to dark circles.

With the summer sun blazing and a lively social calendar in full swing, South African wardrobes naturally adapt to reflect the vibrant spirit of the season. From soft neutrals to bold, expressive colours, fashion here isn’t just about staying cool—it’s about standing out. Think breathable fabrics, flowy maxi dresses, wide-brim hats, and comfortable yet chic sandals. But South African style doesn’t stop at your outfit—it flows right down to your fingertips.

Nail colours have become the ultimate accessory, adding that polished, personal touch to every look. So, as you refresh your wardrobe with stylish, easygoing staples, why not give your nails the same attention? Wondering how to pick the perfect polish to match Mzansi’s summer vibes? We’ve handpicked four fabulous nail shades that embody elegance, trendiness, and the unique flair of South African fashion.

Burgundy Nail Colour

When you think of pure sophistication in South Africa’s vibrant fashion scene, burgundy instantly comes to mind. This rich, luxurious shade—reminiscent of fine wine—effortlessly adds depth and class to any look. Whether you’re strolling through the stylish boutiques of Sandton City or attending a sunset rooftop dinner in Cape Town, burgundy nails offer a polished, elegant finish that pairs beautifully with earthy tones, gold accessories, and both modern and timeless fashion

Coffee Brown Nail Colour

The Pantone Color Institute has named PANTONE 17-1230 Mocha Mousse as its color for 2025—and it’s easy to see why. This soft yet rich coffee brown hue blends warmth with sophistication, creating a look that’s effortlessly elegant. Mocha Mousse is more than just a trend; it’s a versatile shade that adds depth and luxury to your overall style, making it the perfect match for South Africa’s polished and refined fashion aesthetic.

Neutral Nail Colour

No list is complete without this iconic shade. Timeless and effortlessly chic, this subtle nude hue adds a refined touch to any look. Nude nail polish, in particular, creates the illusion of longer, more elegant fingers—making it ideal for a polished, everyday style that transitions seamlessly from the office to evening outings. It’s the ultimate quiet luxury: versatile, understated, and endlessly sophisticated, complementing everything from minimalist ensembles to bold statement pieces.

Red Nail Polish Colour

There’s nothing quite like the power of a classic red nail polish. This timeless shade speaks volumes—bold, sophisticated, and effortlessly luxurious. Red nails make an instant statement, complementing all skin tones with a sleek, polished finish. Whether you’re dressing up for a glamorous event or adding a pop of color to a minimalist outfit, red remains the ultimate symbol of confidence and elegance.