Innholdsfortegnelse for March/April 2024 i Good Housekeeping

Seasonal blooms — think zinnias, nasturtiums and cosmos — turn a bare wall into colorful living art. This setup, made from painted pine boards and glass test tubes, enhances the sunny dining room corner of Annie Diamond, whose lifestyle blog is Most Lovely Things. Located near a door, the station allows her to give guests cuttings on their way out. Try updating the greens periodically: hydrangeas in fall, poinsettias for holidays, in-season flowers during warm months. This can also be used to propagate houseplant cuttings! Instructions, page 142.…

1. Sweet Chick Wreath Welcome guests with a nature-inspired wreath full of eggshells, feathers and dried spring flowers. Just grab your glue gun! Complete craft instructions, p. 137 2. Spring Sandwich Cookies Top these buttercream-filled stacks with tangy lemon curd for tasty “yolks.” p. 134 Quiche Lorraine p. 135 3-6 Customizable Quiche Bake up a custard-based centerpiece with your preferred mix-ins — or use the base to give new life to leftover produce and proteins. Here, some of our favorite combos: * bacon + onion + Gruyère cheese* sausage + tomatoes + Cheddar* smoked ham + leeks + thyme* parsley + onion + Swiss cheese Recipes, p. 135 Break Out of Your Shell You’ll forget about frying, poaching and scrambling with these genius egg ideas. 7 Create clusters Beat an…

The saying “too much of a good thing” applies to skincare too. “The prevalence of overuse is likely due to exposure to products on social media and elsewhere online without guidance from experts,” says dermatologist Stacey Tull, M.D., the owner of St. Charles County Dermatologic Surgery in St. Louis. This results in complex multistep regimens, constantly trying new products and using formulas that don’t fit your skin needs, that are too strong or that contain ingredients that could be harmful together. IRRITATION “You may notice red patches—allergic contact dermatitis—or hives and may experience minor pain [such as a burning sensation],” says Trisha Khanna, M.D., a dermatologist in Orlando, FL. DRYNESS Signs that the skin’s natural protective barrier is damaged include dryness, peeling or flaking, itching and tightness, Dr. Khanna adds.…

@APRILFRANZINO Q I’m seeing cleansing balms and oils everywhere. What are they? —ROSEMARIE O. A: Unlike traditional face washes with gel or foam formulas, cleansing balms and oils are usually oil-based. “Since compounds with similar characteristics dissolve each other, these cleansers are effective at removing oil, impurities and cosmetics—even sunscreen and heavy makeup like waterproof mascara,” says GH Beauty Lab Director Sabina Wizemann. And because they’re formulated with oils, “they won’t strip away skin’s natural oils and are more moisturizing than other types of cleansers,” adds Ramya Garlapati, M.D., a dermatologist in Los Angeles. Oil and balm cleansers are “very good for dry, sensitive and mature skin types, but even those with oily skin can use them, since the oil in the product will help break down excess skin oil,”…

Build cubbies from floor to ceiling. An active family relies on a mudroom with enough capacity for coats, bags and shoes — which might mean using every inch of vertical space. “The result is a tidy appearance and no searching for necessary items on the way to work or school,” says designer Bethany Adams of Bethany Adams Interiors. KITCHEN Install a farmhouse-style plate rack. To maximize natural light in this Craftsman home, designer Julia Miller of Yond Interiors ditched traditional upper cabinets. “With the plate rack, we were able to gain vertical storage without losing light while keeping the millwork and cabinetry details consistent with the rest of the house,” she says. Conceal kitchen essentials. A microwave and a coffee maker are hidden in a cabinet (above) to prevent visual…

Stain Blaster Bissell’s Little Green TikTok star now has even more muscle. It generates steam to penetrate better and dissolve carpet and upholstery messes quickly. Top Mop A spray mop is ideal for safely cleaning wood floors. Swiffer’s new one uses a pad with hundreds of dirt-grabbing strips for faster, deeper cleaning. Steam Star Convert EuroFlex’s upright mop to a portable one and attach its slim brush. Now you can steam-clean floor grout without getting on your hands and knees!…

1 PURGE Take out the items in the drawer or closet one by one and place each in one of these four piles: Keep. These are items you use or wear; they will be going back into the drawer or closet. Relocate. Put things here that you still want but that should be stored elsewhere. Donate. This pile is for items in good condition that others might be able to use. Toss or recycle. If you no longer want or need it and it’s in poor shape and not worth donating, place it here. 2 CLEAN Now that your space is empty, clean it thoroughly. For a closet, vacuum the walls, any shelves and the floor or carpet; pay special attention to corners and crevices, and dust the rod. For…

Avoid Harsh Chemicals Sure, spraying the strong stuff all over your lawn will wipe out weeds, but it can also kill beneficial pollinators and other local fauna. Remember that not all weeds are bad. Clover, for example, helps remove fortifying nitrogen from the air and feeds it to the soil. Get to the Root of It Weeds that do need to go, including broad-leaf varieties that can take over a lawn, need to be pulled out by the root or else they will return quickly. Weeding a few hours after a rainstorm will make the task easier. Don’t Forget to Mulch Not only does a protective layer of mulch in vegetable and garden beds discourage weeds, but it also cuts down on time spent watering and fighting pests. Choose an…

High-Tech Option This sleek planter lets you easily adjust the amount of light your plants receive; it tracks when you “plant” seeds and add food. A Smaller Footprint Great for small spaces, this cute option also offers an automatic watering system and more than 75 possible plant varieties. An Old-School Tray If you have a sunny window, try this easy, affordable herbor tea-growing kit. Is light a challenge? The company sells grow lights separately.…

All autoimmune illnesses involve inflammation. Three women share how they followed their mystery symptoms to a diagnosis—and treatment. By the time I had my daughter when I was 27, I was tired all the time. I’d get really thirsty, and I kept noticing aches and pains and stiffness in all my joints. It was odd because I was very active as a kid; then, as an adult, I got my teaching license and worked first in a classroom, then as a tutor. At that time, my ob/gyn told me I was anemic, and I started taking iron pills. But the pills didn’t really help, so I had to go to the hospital for iron and vitamin infusions. I would be there for the whole day and then go home and…

When I was 23 and in law school, I came down with what I thought was the worst flu ever. I was hit by a wave of fatigue, and I had all the symptoms I usually get with a really bad cold or flu, including brain fog and aches and pains — except my nose wasn’t running. I assumed that whatever I had would go away in a few days, but it didn’t, and it started to feel as if something was really wrong with me. After about a month, I went to my primary care physician and said, “It’s so weird — I feel like I’m sick without being sick.” Because I also had a sinus infection, my doctor referred me to an ENT, who said it was probably…

Some time ago, while I was performing in arenas across America as an all-star with the So You Think You Can Dance national tour, things started to feel off. At 23, I was exhausted all the time. The running joke was that the other dancers would always say to me, “Good night, Grandma!” because as soon as we got on the bus I was out. Other symptoms came on gradually — I felt numbness in my legs, and when I put my chin on my chest I would feel this crazy electrical sensation, like shocks running down my spine. At first I thought I had injured my back, because I’d read that numbness could come from that kind of injury. I definitely knew something was wrong, but as a professional…

1 Resilient Materials The uptick in extreme weather means putting a premium on durable materials, from fire-resistant siding to roofing that can withstand sleet and high heat. 2 Deep Energy Savings Energy-efficient upgrades can help offset the effects of inflation and high interest rates. New federal tax credits are more generous this year. 3 Future-Proof Design Even if it’s not your “forever home,” you want a residence that will remain livable whatever your age or ability. Items as simple as a bidet seat can help you maintain independence, while technology allows for the automation of lighting, heating and home security.…

Versatile Vanity Top Vadara’s Sakura countertop brings together two key trends in kitchen design: the emergence of more blues and grays throughout a space and an enduring preference for low-maintenance quartz. The surface showed exceptional resistance to stains, scratches and dents in our extensive Lab tests. SAKURA QUARTZ COUNTERTOP, $28 TO $34 PER SQUARE FOOT, VADARAQUARTZ.COM Brilliant Bidet Bio Bidet’s high-tech bidet offers custom controls that let you program precisely how you want it to clean you. Key features include an adjustable nozzle spray, an auto open/close lid, UV sterilization, a heated seat, a night-light and a built-in air dryer. Said one tester, “The self-closing lid addresses a huge pet peeve of mine in a house full of guys!” BIO BIDET DISCOVERY DLS ELONGATED SMART TOILET SEAT, $699, BIOBIDET.COM Simple…

Movable Glass Walls Also known as “scenic doors,” moving glass wall systems like this winner from Milgard blur the line between inside and outdoors while letting interiors be flooded with natural light and fresh air. Strong yet narrow aluminum frames maximize sight lines. AX550 MOVING GLASS WALLS, $10,000 TO $30,000 DEPENDING ON STYLE, SIZE & OPTIONS, MILGARD.COM High-Tech Front Doors Masonite’s M-Pwr Smart Door is the first residential front door with integrated power, welcome lights, a video doorbell and a smart lock. The premium fiberglass door excels at its primary job of defending a home from intruders and harsh weather, thanks to its built-in backup battery and superb protection against air and water infiltration. MASONITE M-PWR SMART DOOR, FROM $4,000, HOMEDEPOT.COM Customizable Entries Window World’s fiberglass doors showcase the material’s…

Q Do I really need activewear for exercise, or can I just wear comfy clothes? — SAGAN L. A: It’s tempting to throw on an old T-shirt and pair of sweatpants for your workouts, but wearing proper fitness gear can actually make exercise more pleasant and prevent your skin from chafing. Loose clothes made of natural fibers like cotton aren’t ideal for most sweaty activities because they absorb moisture and take longer to dry. Instead, opt for form-fitting tops, bottoms and underwear made of synthetic performance materials like nylon and polyester that move with your body and wick moisture away from your skin so you’ll feel cool and dry. Check out some of our Textiles Lab’s top-tested activewear picks below: BARELY THERE UNDERWEAR Made of breathable mesh, this thong is super…

BEST OVERALL In our tests, this centrifugal model juiced carrots and kale faster than any other juicer tested. BEST VALUE This easy-to-use centrifugal juicer makes smooth juice fast. BEST MASTICATING Whole apples fit into the large feed tube and entire carrots into the smaller one, reducing overall prep time. BEST FOR CITRUS This compact model juices small and large citrus quickly with little cleanup.…

p. 1 This minimal shelf and vase system from lifestyle blogger Annie Diamond (mostlovelythings.com) can also be used to propagate plants. 1. Cut six 1" x 3" pieces of wood to desired length. 2. Measure where you’d like the holes that will hold the test tubes (should be approximately 7" apart). 3. Use a small drill bit to create starter holes on three boards; then use a 1½" drill bit to make them larger. 4. Using 2" screws, attach each board without holes to the back edge of a board with them. 5. Sand the boards to the desired smoothness, wipe down with a damp cloth and paint or stain them. 6. Attach the boards to the wall, using wall anchors if there’s no beam. 7. Insert the test tubes,…

MANGO CHICKEN SALAD In medium bowl, stir together ¾ cup low-fat Greek yogurt, 2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice, 1 Tbsp Dijon mustard and ¼ tsp each kosher salt and pepper. Fold in 2 stalks celery and 2 scallions (all finely chopped) and ½ cup dill fronds (roughly chopped). Add 4 cups shredded cooked chicken breast and 1 small avocado and 1 mango (both diced) and gently toss to coat. VEGGIE HAND ROLLS Halve 2 sheets toasted nori lengthwise and lay on dry work surface. Top with ¾ cup cooked sushi rice (3 Tbsp per roll). Top with 8 slices avocado, 2 scallions (thinly sliced), 1 Persian cucumber (cut into matchsticks) and ¼ cup broccoli or radish sprouts. Drizzle with sriracha and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds. Roll and serve immediately…

It’s all about bonds, part of hair’s structure, and the buzzy category of “bond-building” products that claim to repair damage. But what exactly are hair bonds, how do they break and can they be mended? Here, GH Beauty Lab and hair scientists explain what to know about bonds and bond-repair treatments — and whether they’re really the key to healthier hair.…

It depends on the type. Both hydrogen bonds and ionic bonds repair themselves. “Hydrogen bonds re-form when hair dries after water exposure and cools after being heated, and ionic bonds also re-form once hair is dry and the pH returns to normal,” Wizemann says. “Broken disulfide bonds cannot be repaired to their original state.” New haircare technologies found in bond “repair” products work by “depositing ingredients into hair to bond to the disconnected atoms and reinforce hair structure,” she explains. These treatments are available for use both in salons and at home. “They have been successful at minimizing damage from chemical hair processes, but may give a false sense that all damage can be totally reversed,” Wizemann says. See GH Beauty Lab–recommended bond-repair treatments at right.…

1 PRESS PAUSE Give skin a reset: “Stop using your current products and switch to a basic regimen [see right],” Dr. Tull says. Look for the labels “hypoallergenic,” “fragrance-free,” “alcohol-free” and “noncomedogenic” (non-pore-clogging). 2 STAY CALM For immediate relief of irritation, apply a cold compress and a moisturizer that contains soothing ingredients such as ceramides, hyaluronic acid, aloe and oatmeal to the area. (If symptoms persist, consult a dermatologist.) 3 DON’T MIX ACTIVES Going forward, avoid applying strong active ingredients like exfoliants, acids, retinol and benzoyl peroxide on the same day to prevent stripping skin of its protective barrier, Dr. Tull advises. 4 BE CAUTIOUS Do a patch test before applying a new product all over your face, suggests Dr. Khanna. Dab the formula on a hidden area of skin…

Upcycled ingredients in cosmetics are “typically sourced from organic matter, like food or agricultural and botanical crops, that would usually go to waste,” says beauty and sustainability expert Birnur Aral, Ph.D. Instead, they’re now being repurposed: From oils and extracts derived from fruit peels to discarded rice bran and imperfect flowers, many types of upcycled ingredients are being used by beauty brands in skincare and more. But does this actually reduce waste? Yes, as long as the manufacturing process doesn’t require significantly more energy or additional ingredients, she explains. Plus, “upcycled ingredients may offer new or similar beauty benefits at a lower financial or environmental cost,” Aral says. TRY GH SUSTAINABLE INNOVATION AWARD WINNER BLOOMEFFECTS ROYAL TULIP CLEANSING JELLY ($29, CREDOBEAUTY.COM), WITH UPCYCLED TULIPS.…

1. CHOOSE ONE BIG JOB. Got a massive task that’s been nagging at you for months? Be it clearing out the basement, polishing the furniture or deep-cleaning the sofa, make it your mission now. Crossing it off your list will be a relief. 2. TARGET ONLY THE TOUGH SPOTS. If you speed-clean all year, use this time to hit areas you usually skip, such as hard-to-reach window coverings, behind furniture pieces, the stove or fridge and under area rugs. It’ll be satisfying to know these zones are done. 3. TACKLE THOSE ANNUAL MUST-DO’S. Is washing every window, steamcleaning all carpets or another project a nonnegotiable spring cleaning job for you? Then go for it! There’s nothing like keeping up an annual tradition to give you a sense of accomplishment.…

CARPETS AND RUGS Stains are the biggest offenders, as is grime near doorways or a favorite chair. Target these areas with a portable carpet cleaner or a carpet spray or foam like those from Woolite. You can also dab stains with a cloth dipped in a mix of ¼ tsp dish liquid and 2 cups warm water. Rinse and blot dry. WOOD + LAMINATE Restoring the glow is easy. Spray three-foot sections with a wood floor cleaner like Bona’s PowerPlus Hardwood Floor Deep Cleaner—a top-tested GH Cleaning Lab pick. Mop with and across the grain and let dry. Buff out stubborn scuffs with a cloth-covered non-scratch scrubbing pad. GLAZED TILE Ceramic and porcelain tiles are easy to clean—it’s the grout that isn’t. If you have a steam mop, preferably one…

MIX PRODUCTS There’s no debating it: Mixing cleaning products is a big mistake. Bleach and ammonia are the most notable toxic combination, but other concoctions can also be hazardous. To be safe, use products one at a time and rinse well between applications. IGNORE LABELS Products are safety-tested for the uses listed on their labels. While some off-label ideas, like cleaning a grill with dish spray, are harmless, others can ruin carpet, fabric and more. Be wary of advice to use a product in a way that strays too far from what it’s intended for. DECANT CLEANERS Brightly colored cleaners look pretty when displayed in glass vessels, but this can be risky. If a child, an elderly relative or a pet gets into them, the consequences can be harmful or…

Layer window treatments. Pair woven Roman shades with linen drapery to evoke a cozy feel and control the amount of light in a bedroom. “Choose different materials or mix solids with patterns to create contrast,” suggests Emily Ruff, owner of Cohesively Curated. SEE THE LIGHT “Rechargeable-battery-powered smart shades can be scheduled to open and close throughout the day.”— STEPHANIE HARVEY, HUNTER DOUGLAS Match curtains to wallpaper. Embrace a more-is-more style with “different textures in the same pattern,” which give this dining room a charming feel, says Shelby Van Daley, founder of Daley Home. PERFECT PAIRING Van Daley ordered both the wallpaper and the fabric from designer wallpaper firm Thibaut, then had a local workroom create the drapes. A Measure of Success Avoid common curtain mistakes like hanging rods too low…

The Variety Pack With six types of feeding stations that will appeal to birds of various sizes and species, this freestanding feeder will make your yard an oasis for feathered friends. BEST CHOICE PRODUCTS 6-HOOK BIRD FEEDING STATION, $50, AMAZON The Squirrel Repeller Those fluffy-tailed cuties can drain a feeder in a flash, but this feeder has a mesh overlay that will keep them at bay while allowing birds to access the food. BROME SQUIRREL BUSTER STANDARD FEEDER, $51, AMAZON The Window Seat If you don’t have anywhere to hang a bird feeder, grab this trough-style window clinger. NATURE’S HANGOUT WINDOW BIRD FEEDER WITH SUCTION CUPS, $42, AMAZON…

More than half of all deaths are thought to be attributed to diseases related to inflammation — yet our bodies can’t function without it. Our special report on this perplexing topic reveals what inflammation does in the body and how you can stop it. Plus, three women share how inflammatory conditions changed their lives.…

Practice stress relief. We know that stress can kick off or worsen depression, dementia and cancer through inflammation, so find a stress-relief method that works for you and practice it every day. Try meditating, taking breaks from social media, relaxing in a warm bath or playing with a furry friend. Mind what you eat. Certain foods can make inflammation worse; one way to find out what triggers your symptoms is to try an elimination diet. Work with a nutritionist to eliminate potentially problematic foods such as red and processed meat, sugar and fried foods for three weeks before slowly adding them back if your body tolerates them. Get moving. Choose an activity you enjoy — walking, dancing, strength training, cycling — and do it a few times a week. Studies…

Inflammation is about more than your diet, but “what we eat plays a major role,” says my friend and fellow dietitian Frances Largeman-Roth, R.D.N., author of the new book Everyday Snack Tray, a go-to guide to creating colorful, flavorful, nutritionally diverse boards and trays for every occasion. Largeman-Roth’s clients often tap her for help with inflammation. Her main message, whether you are snacking or sitting down for a meal: Eat more fresh, whole foods. “Foods that include high amounts of plant substances, known as phytochemicals, can help fight inflammation and should be eaten regularly,” Largeman-Roth notes. Eating more whole foods will hopefully mean that processed food, added sugars (as opposed to ones that are in foods naturally), refined carbs and saturated and trans fats will get crowded out, as these…

Smart Garage Add-On Combining the benefits of a video doorbell and a smart lock, the MyQ Smart Garage Video Keypad is an innovative Wi-Fi-connected device that allows you to see who’s coming and going via the garage door. You can also create personal PIN codes for family members, friends and temporary visitors such as the dog walker using the MyQ app. MYQ SMART GARAGE VIDEO KEYPAD, $100, MYQ.COM Far-Reaching Wi-Fi Extender A robust Wi-Fi router is the best defense against weak signals. The Orbi mesh system is pricey but delivers up to 10.8 gigabits per second (Gbps) Wi-Fi speed and covers up to 9,000 square feet. It clocked exceptional download and upload times in our Lab tests, and it’s the best router we’ve seen for playing 4K videos on multiple…

All-Weather Siding James Hardie’s durable, low-maintenance fiber cement exterior solutions provide lasting beauty for any style of home in any region. Available in a range of contemporary designs, Hardie Architectural Collection products help protect against fire, extreme weather, wind, moisture, pests and more. Comely PVC Cladding TimberTech’s Advanced PVC cladding boasts all the attributes that make the brand’s decking a favorite with our experts. It’s a highly durable material (backed by a 50-year stain and fade limited warranty) that looks great without a lot of maintenance. In fact, it never needs to be sealed or stained! Resilient Roofing GAF’s Timberline UHDZ asphalt shingles deliver top-level protection against Mother Nature’s harshest assaults—driving rain, snow and sleet as well as record-busting heat. The premium shingles are fortified with a time-release algae-fighting technology…

Superefficient Irrigation System Moen’s Smart Wireless Soil Sensors send soil measurement levels to the Smart Sprinkler Controller to help ensure that the lawn gets water only when it needs it. That can reduce water use by up to 30% while keeping the lawn healthy and lush. Superior Composite Decking Made from 95% recycled content, Trex’s Transcend Lineage composite decking resists fading, staining, scratching and mold. Subtle graining adds beauty, and heat-mitigating technology keeps it cooler than other similarly colored composites.…

SEAL PROMISE All GH Seal products are rigorously assessed by the GH Labs. We stand behind them with our exclusive refund-or-replacement limited warranty.* AGE DEFIER FOR THE DELICATE EYE AREA This eye cream from Mary Kay’s Timewise line is quick to be absorbed and includes algae extract to help prevent puffiness along with niacinamide and resveratrol to reduce fine lines associated with aging. LAB RESULTS Clinical lab data evaluations concluded that the cream could improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles in the eye area after 12 weeks of use. The cream is suitable for those with all skin types, including contact lens wearers and those who say their eyes are sensitive. BACTERIA-FIGHTER FOR HAPPY HANDS Safeguard’s hand wash—available in sensational scents like Notes of Lavender, Ocean Breeze and…

Transform Leftovers. The air fryer is one of our favorite tools for heating up takeout fries or whatever’s in the fridge. Or, get creative and transform your leftovers into an entirely new meal. We used extra chicken cutlets to make a delicious chicken Parm! Crispy Chicken Parm p. 147 STEFANI SASSOS, M.S., R.D.N., C.D.N. GH NUTRITION DIRECTOR Q: Is air-frying really healthier? A: Yes! Air-frying uses significantly less oil than pan-frying and deep-frying, so it makes for a lower-calorie and lower-fat alternative that still delivers crispy deliciousness. And now new research suggests that there may be even more health benefits. A study published with the National Center for Biotechnology Information reports that air-frying may significantly increase the antioxidant power of vegetables compared with some other cooking methods—even sautéing. Of course,…

RAINBOW CARROTS + CORIANDER SEEDS Place large rimmed baking sheet in oven and heat oven to 425°F. In large bowl, toss 1¾ lbs rainbow carrots (peeled and halved crosswise, thick ends halved lengthwise, or quartered if very thick), with 1 Tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp coriander seeds (crushed) and ¼ tsp each kosher salt and pepper. HONEY Carefully arrange carrots on preheated baking sheet and roast until golden brown and tender, 20 to 28 min. Immediately drizzle with 1 Tbsp honey; toss to combine. HANGER STEAK While carrots roast, heat 1 Tbsp oil in large cast-iron skillet on medium-high. Season 1 hanger steak (1 to 1¼ lbs, membrane removed) with ½ tsp each salt and pepper, then cook to desired doneness, 2 to 4 min. on all sides for medium-rare.…

“EGG” SANDWICH COOKIES M V H Active 1 hr. Total 1 hr. 30 min. plus cooling For cookies 2¾ cups all-purpose flour½ tsp baking powder¼ tsp kosher salt1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temp¾ cup granulated sugar1 large egg, at room temp1 tsp pure almond extract1 tsp pure vanilla extract1 2-in. egg cookie cutter1 ½-in. round cookie cutter For buttercream and decorating ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, at room temp2 cups confectioners’ sugar, plus more for dustingPinch of kosher salt1 tsp pure almond extract1 11- to 12-oz jar lemon curd 1. Make cookies: In medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder and salt. 2. In large bowl, using electric mixer, beat butter and granulated sugar on medium-high until light and fluffy, about 3 min. Reduce speed to…

Anita de Monte Laughs Last by XOCHITL GONZALEZ Cuban artist Anita de Monte died tragically in 1985, just as her career was taking flight. By 1998, when art student Raquel discovers her, Anita is almost forgotten. The parallels between their stories are striking: Raquel is struggling to find her footing in the art world, and she’s also losing herself to a powerful man. This touching, vibrant story asks, Who gets to have a legacy? $27 The Husbands by HOLLY GRAMAZIO Lauren comes home from a party to a “husband” she’s never met. After he goes into the attic, a different man returns. When Lauren’s attic begins supplying a stream of husbands, she has to decide whether to choose one or perpetually seek a better option. This novel is a commentary on dating,…

WHY IT EARNED THE GH SEAL Our home improvement experts gave top marks across a range of Lab evaluations to Bath Planet’s durable polymer surfaces. 1 FAST, SIMPLE INSTALLATION Trained professional installers will custom-fit your bath area with a new bath or shower and wall surround. Our Lab pros were impressed that many jobs can be completed in as little as a day! 2 ULTRA-DURABLE CONSTRUCTION All bath surfaces are made of a high-tech, scratch-resistant polymer. Engineered specifically for use in the bath and shower, the tough material stands up to everyday wear and tear over time. 3 EASY MAINTENANCE The grout-free design is easy to clean with a household cleaner. The nonporous surface resists staining and yellowing and can help prevent mold and mildew from growing. 4 SPECTACULAR VARIETY…

Ever feel as if clutter is slowly creeping in around you? Me too. Spring feels like the perfect time to clear the cobwebs, shrink the piles and get ourselves — and our spaces — totally sorted out (page 35). Luckily, this issue is brimming with genius organizing solutions meant to help you (and me) put everything in its place. Just like those perfectly lined up Easter eggs that have us feeling all kinds of happy. We’ve also been busy cooking up a storm, and we have tons of fresh and easy recipes from the GH Test Kitchen, guaranteed to bring your taste buds out of hibernation — lemon meringue cheesecake, anyone? It’s featured on the cover and it’s just the beginning. Your brunch game is about to lead the season…

Bonds are attractive forces between atoms in hair (like hydrogen and sulfur) that hold its structure together. “Hair is primarily made of the protein keratin,” says Bridgette Hill, a certified trichologist (hair expert) in New York City and Palm Beach, FL. “Bonds connect keratin proteins, forming the structure of the hair fiber.” They allow strands to be altered by heat, cold, chemicals and tension, and contribute to the superficial repair of hair as well as moisture retention and elasticity, she explains. When bonds are broken, hair can look and feel damaged, frayed, brittle and dry. The three main types are: 1 HYDROGEN BONDS The weakest type of bond, prevalent throughout hair’s cortex (middle layer), helps give hair strength, elasticity and ability to return to its natural shape after exposure to…

LEAVE-IN MASK A GH Beauty Award winner, this mask used in place of conditioner impressed Lab experts. Performance data showed it restored 82% of the strength of overbleached hair samples in two uses. THREE-STEP REGIMEN This GH Beauty Award–winning trio reduced visible split ends by 82%, and 93% of testers said their hair felt moisturized immediately after use, Lab data analysis confirmed. REPAIR TREATMENT One of the original bond-repair treatments, the brand’s proprietary molecule reconnects severed disulfide bonds.…

CLEANSE “Wash your face twice daily to remove impurities,” Dr. Tull says. Choose a mild non-soap cleanser to mitigate irritation. GH Beauty Lab tested: La Roche-Posay Toleriane Purifying Foaming Cleanser, $17, drugstores MOISTURIZE “Apply a face moisturizer every morning and night” to replenish and seal in hydration, Dr. Tull suggests. GH Beauty Award winner: Aveeno Calm + Restore Oat Gel Moisturizer, $20, drugstores PROTECT Sun protection is the most important daily step, Dr. Khanna says. Opt for a mineral SPF that contains zinc oxide, which has skin-calming effects. GH Beauty Lab test winner: Sun Bum Mineral SPF 30 Sunscreen Face Lotion, $20, cvs.com…

STAIN-ERASING TOOTHPASTE In four weeks of twice-daily use, this GH Beauty Award–winning toothpaste with hydrogen peroxide can remove up to 10 years’ worth of yellow stains. DEEP-CLEANING FLOSSER To ward off tooth discoloration, remove plaque with this GH Beauty Lab test winner: The ultra-quiet water flosser was top-ranked for cleaning more effectively than manual flossing. BRIGHTENING LIPSTICK Create the illusion of whiter teeth with a blue-red matte lipstick like this GH Beauty Award winner; it rated high for not drying out lips.…

LOST SCENTS, REDISCOVERED What if you could smell (and wear) the aromas of extinct flowers? Now you can, thanks to the cutting-edge biotechnology behind the new Future Society Eau de Parfums. The brand used the genetic codes from samples of extinct botanicals from the Harvard Herbarium to create molecules of their fragrances. Perfumers then used the molecules to formulate perfumes evoking scents that hadn’t been smelled in decades or even centuries. GH LAB NOTE After visiting its lab, GH Beauty Lab experts were very impressed with the science and innovation behind the brand. A favorite fragrance: crisp, grassy Floating Forest, based on the scent of the extinct Asian flowering tree Shorea cuspidata from Borneo. FUTURE SOCIETY FLOATING FOREST EAU DE PARFUM, $98, NORDSTROM.COM…

DEGREASE THE KITCHEN After months of cooking, a thin, tacky film has likely settled on your range hood, refrigerator top and cabinet fronts. Dissolve it quickly with a grease cutter like GH Seal Star Mr. Clean Clean Freak that’s safe to use on multiple surfaces. Do an oven self-clean or just spot-clean the interior and the door. Now fire up the grill! DIVE INTO BEDDING While the linens are washing, focus on the mattresses. Pass a steamer across the tops, sides and edges to kill dust mites, then vacuum. Zap stains with a 50/50 mix of hydrogen peroxide and water and a few drops of dish liquid. Rinse and let dry. Apply a sanitizer like GH Seal Star Microban 24 Hour Sanitizing Spray to kill bacteria. Nighty-night! WORK THE WALLS…

WINDOWS Using a window-cleaning service is a great way to get the job done in a day and avoid having to climb a ladder yourself. Most offer indoor and outdoor cleaning options, which usually include cleaning the frames. Cleaning screens may cost extra. You’ll have to remove all indoor window coverings and nearby furniture to create access and minimize potential damage. CARPET DEEP-CLEAN Sure you could do this yourself, but if you have rooms’ worth of carpet to clean, calling in a pro could be easiest. Many pros use more powerful equipment than you could buy or rent, move small furniture pieces, pretreat spots and apply a fresh layer of stain protectant. Some warranty their work and will return for a second pass if stains reappear or you are not…

Grab and Go If you tote your compost to a collection site, try this handled bin from Brabantia. It has a grip on the bottom as well to give you leverage for emptying. Electric Unit This GH Kitchen Award-winner dries, grinds and cools kitchen waste with the press of a button. Keep the main unit in your garage or pantry and the bucket on the countertop for convenience. Compact Caddy Small enough to have nearby when you are prepping dinner, this stainless steel caddy can also be attached to the side of some Simplehuman trash cans.…

Alcohol: YES In addition to increasing intestinal inflammation, overdoing it on alcohol can disrupt gut bacteria, change brain structure and function, raise blood pressure and increase risk of stroke and heart disease. To play it safe, stick to no more than one alcoholic drink daily — that goes for both men and women. Loneliness: YES Alone time is important, but feeling lonely often may be bad for your health. Research has found that socially isolated people tend to have higher levels of markers of inflammation in their blood, and previous studies have connected loneliness with greater expression of pro-inflammatory genes. Cut your risk by staying in touch with people you care about and finding ways to interact with others — in person, not just on social media. Dairy: NO “Dairy…

While the treatment for acute inflammation often involves nothing more than resting, the chronic inflammation that comes with autoimmune illnesses means taking another tack. For decades the answer has been steroids, which are “the best drugs and the worst drugs,” says Michael Kaplan, M.D., a rheumatologist at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City. Steroids work well and fast but have numerous serious side effects, he explains. Biologic drugs such as Humira, Remicade and Enbrel have been game changers; they stop the action of a substance that tells other cells to ramp up inflammation, which reduces symptoms such as joint pain and can even stop the joint damage in people with rheumatoid arthritis. Newer drugs go after various mechanisms involved in creating unwanted inflammation. “This is a very exciting time,”…

No-Fuss Smart Faucet First-generation smart faucets could be a little finicky, but this sleek updated offering from Kohler isn’t. Its built-in sensor responds quickly, reliably and right when you want it to. Its plug-in installation eliminates the need to change batteries, and the pull-down spray head features multiple settings. KOHLER ARTIFACTS TOUCHLESS KITCHEN FAUCET, $737, KOHLER.COM Wood-Look Floors Our Lab experts love this rigid core flooring from Armstrong Flooring, which resembles real wood but doesn’t have wood’s performance issues. The difference is thanks to multilayer construction, including a solid core that adds durability and a thick wear layer that resists scratching, staining and moisture. ARMSTRONG FLOORING LUTEA RIGID CORE FLOORING, $3.50 TO $4.50 PER SQ FT, ARMSTRONGFLOORING.COM Classic Countertop Porcelain slab kitchen counters offer a fresh take on a classic…

First-Class Combo Kit This cordless duo from Ridgid combines a powerful hammer drill and impact driver that together can complete a wide range of tasks around the house or even on a construction site. “I’m used to ‘prosumer’ products, and this kit is far beyond that,” reported one tester. RIDGID 18V BRUSHLESS 2-TOOL COMBO KIT, $379, HOMEDEPOT.COM Top-Notch Chain Saw This 40-volt chain saw from Ryobi can tackle logs up to 36 inches in diameter. “It was easy to trim trees around the yard without the need for a lot of added pressure,” observed one tester, who also said the saw’s size and weight were well suited to her 5'1" frame. RYOBI 40V HP BRUSHLESS 20" CHAINSAW, $479, RYOBITOOLS.COM Power Pressure Washer Besides packing plenty of power for any surface,…

Your skin’s natural barrier protects against environmental harshness, bacteria and moisture loss. These tips can help prevent redness and irritation, signs that the barrier has been compromised. · Cleanse gently. Using soaps with a high pH can damage skin’s barrier. GH chemists recommend choosing mild cleansers that aren’t overly drying or stripping. · Minimize exfoliation. If you need to exfoliate, opt for a chemical version over a grainy scrub, which can be too rough. Our pros suggest acids like salicylic acid and glycolic acid in moderation. · Choose the right moisturizers. Seek out ingredients like ceramides, glycerin and hyaluronic acid.…

Frappato This translucent Sicilian pick boasts juicy red-berry flavor balanced by hints of baking spices and appealing earthiness from the area’s mineral-rich volcanic soil. Food pairings: light pasta, seared tuna, pork, poultry, figs and other dark harvest fruits Bottle pick: A cherry-inflected Frappato with aromatic spice notes, soft tannins and mouthwatering acidity such as Cantine Barbera FuoriZona Terre Siciliane IGT 2021 Pais A little herbal with a touch of smoke, this snappy Chilean vino has a savory edge to complement its bright red fruit. Tannin levels in these wines can vary, and some have complex spice notes. Food pairings: pizza, grilled vegetables, Middle Eastern meze Bottle pick: A brambly, herbaceous and slightly smoky Pais made in the easy-drinking pipeño style, such as Estacion Yumbel Pipeño 2021 American Glou Glou French…

Q I’m curious about juicers. Should I consider one? — ALEC S. A: A juicer is great for using up excess produce, infusing flavor into recipes and making juices (like the one here, which our registered dietitian loves), but it can be expensive. Before you buy, get acquainted with the three main styles: Masticating juicers (a.k.a. cold-press or slow juicers) use a strong auger to gently crush produce into juice, which is believed by some experts to help preserve nutrients. Centrifugal juicers quickly chop ingredients and spin them through a strainer to separate juice from pulp in minutes. Just need lemons or oranges squeezed? A budget-friendly citrus juicer will do the trick.…

Alcohol Ink–Painted Eggs p. 5 Supplies Alcohol inks Cotton balls Paper towels Disposable gloves Blown-out eggs 1. Cover your work surface and hands (alcohol inks can stain!). 2. For each egg, add a few drops of ink to a cotton ball and dab onto egg. Repeat over the whole surface of the egg to create a unique textured look. Use multiple colors as desired. 3. Allow the eggs to dry fully before handling. NOTE: Alcohol ink–painted eggs should not be consumed. Festive Toppers p. 10 Dye or decorate eggs as you wish (see three ideas below) and set them on painted wood stands for a festive display. Tie-Dye Easter Eggs 1. Wearing rubber gloves, wrap an egg with a coffee filter and use a twist tie to secure it. 2.…

Picture this: Your little one, brow knitted in concentration, hoists a tiny leg onto a chair, hoping to pull themself up to sit. Until this very moment, grown-up hands have always been ready and waiting to assist with this arduous task. Soon the other foot leaves the ground and the outcome hangs in the balance. What do you do? Alleviate the struggle with a boost, or…wait? Suppose you’re like Laura Birek, a self-described “expert catastrophizer” who is descended from a long line of worriers. In that case, you might ready yourself for disaster, scanning the scene for risks of bodily harm while wiping away beads of sweat. The chair could topple; the limbs could slip. But in reality the chair stands on a plush patch of grass (not over a…