Kamini Ramdeen-Chowdhury

Does rinsing produce with water alone protect you from bacteria? A food scientist shares advice for reducing the risk of foodborne illnesses.

How to Wash Your Fruits and Vegetables the Right Way

Seasonal affective disorder is common, and its impact increases with age. One way to combat it is light therapy, but does it work? We asked an expert to help us break it down.

Do Light Therapy Lamps Really Help Combat Seasonal Depression?

The benefits of dry brushing are more than skin-deep. Here, a dermatologist explains the benefits plus the proper dry brushing technique.

Dry Brushing Might Be the Missing Step in Your Skincare Routine

Think you have poor circulation in your feet? An expert explains the symptoms to watch for, and what you can do to improve it.

Cold, Numb Feet? It Might Be Poor Circulation

There’s a lot of fitness advice out there. So how do you know what types of exercise are right for you and your goals? A personal trainer breaks down the difference between cardio and strength training, and the benefits of each.

What’s Better, Cardio or Strength Training? An Expert Explains

Whether you want sex a lot or not so much, there’s no such thing as a perfect libido.

It’s Time to Ditch the Shame Around Sex Drive

Scraping your tongue may seem like an unnecessary step, but according to a periodontist, it comes with some benefits.

Why Tongue-Scraping May Actually Be Worth the Hype

Botox is here to stay. But is it safe, and what are the side effects you should consider before any kind of cosmetic injection? A dermatologist weighs in.

Is Botox Bad for You? A Dermatologist Explains

What is genetic testing, and what can it say about your health? An expert explains what different tests can tell you, plus what to do with the results.

What Can You Learn from Genetic Testing? We Asked an Expert

No two days are the same in a menstruating body. Here’s what to eat to navigate the highs and lows of all four phases of your menstrual cycle.

What to Eat During All Four Phases of the Menstrual Cycle

An expert explains why you get tired and irritable in the sun — and when to get out of the heat.

Summer Making You Cranky? A Doctor Explains Why

An expert explains why it’s worth taking an extra peek before you flush.

Here’s What the Different Colors and Shapes of Poop Really Mean

People are putting oil in their belly button in the name of health. Here’s what experts have to say about it.

Navel Oiling Is All Over TikTok, But Should You Try It?

Let’s remove the stigma around vaginal dryness and get to the bottom of what’s actually happening.

Vaginal Dryness Can Happen to Anyone — Here’s How to Deal with It

These science-backed tactics may help bolster your memory, cognition, and overall brain health as you age.

How to Support Your Brain Health Now to Keep It Sharp

We read a ton of health and wellness books so we could bring you the must-reads right now.

The Best Health, Wellness, and Self-Help Books (So Far) This Year, Reviewed

They claim to cure hangovers and help with hydration, but experts say it’s not that simple. 

Can You Actually Get Your Vitamins From a Patch?

Learn how to release tight hips for better range of motion and less pain.

Tight Hips? Try These Mobility Exercises

Keeping track of a health insurance claim or appeal can be time-consuming and tricky. This tracker will keep all your comms organized so you don’t get lost in red tape.

Track Your Health Insurance Appeals With This Correspondence Tracker

Insurance won’t pay? Here’s what you can do to fight for your coverage.

Exactly What to Do and Say to Appeal an Insurance Claim Denial

From your first pregnancy appointment to postpartum check-ups, two OB-GYNs break down what you can expect from each appointment. 

The Only Pregnancy Appointments Timeline You Need

We all know child care in the U.S. is broken. It's time for women to share what that looks like. 

#ShowUsYourChildCare: Skimm Readers Reveal Their Child Care Arrangements — and Frustration

And why they’re popular across America.

Everyone Is Talking About AR-15s. Here's What You Need to Know About the Semi-Automatic Gun.

Latinx voters are diverse and their viewpoints could help shape what happens come November. Here’s what you need to know about the second-largest voting bloc in the country.

How Latinx Voters Could Influence The 2022 Midterms

Planned Parenthood of Illinois is seeing a rise in the number of out-of-state patients. One abortion provider shares her experience helping them. 

‘The Post-Roe Universe Is Worse’: An Illinois Abortion Provider On The Impact of Roe v. Wade’s Reversal

Andrea Gallegos has seen abortion restrictions chip away at reproductive health care in the South. But the reversal of Roe v. Wade meant closing two abortion clinics in the region for good. And moving services to states where abortion’s still legal. 

'Geography is Now a Privilege': An Abortion Provider on Life Post-Roe

No surprise, August was another tough news month. Let’s clear our minds with some happy news.

Free Period Products, Bad Bunny’s Milestone Win, and 9 Other Good News Stories From August

A new docuseries is diving into the abuse allegations against the embattled actor. And exposing the Hammer family’s legacy of “dark, twisted secrets.” 

‘House of Hammer’ Doc Gives Alleged Victims A Voice, Dives Into Family’s ‘Dark Secrets’

We asked millennial and Gen Z women how they’re feeling in a Post-Roe world. And how abortion laws might impact their major life events. Here’s what they had to say.

How Millennial and Gen Z Women Feel About Abortion Rights: Poll

We’re looking back at some of the president’s key promises from the campaign trail. And where he stands with them today.

Is President Biden Staying True to His Campaign Promises? Here’s What Progress He Has (And Hasn’t) Made

Demi Lovato’s latest single has women sharing their relationship experience with older men on social media. And sparking a larger conversation about grooming.

Demi Lovato’s New Song Sparks Conversations About Grooming

Russia’s invasion in Ukraine has destroyed entire communities, torn families apart, and changed lives. But a new book’s putting a spotlight on Ukrainians’ fight for freedom. We spoke to five photojournalists featured in the book.

5 Photojournalists On The Russia-Ukraine War: ‘People Shouldn't Look Away’

Finnish Prime Minister Sanna Marin is facing criticism for dancing at a party during her free time. Now, women across the world are supporting her through dance.

Why #SolidarityWithSanna Is Dancing Across Your Newsfeed

Catch that office break now because we’re breaking down the latest trends that are making waves at work and on social media.

Meet The New Workplace Trends, From Boomerang Employees to Quiet Quitting

HBO’s "House of the Dragon" is giving us a look into how the Targaryen family from "Game of Thrones" fell from power. 

HBO's 'House of the Dragon' Shows Where GoT's Daenerys May Have Got Her Spark

Former President Trump’s potential mishandling of gov docs has everyone talking about the Espionage Act. From the FBI to lawmakers who want to repeal it. Here’s what you need to know about the law.

Former President Trump Is Being Investigated Under The Espionage Act. Here’s What That Means.

Jennifer Walters is a lawyer by trade and the She-Hulk by blood. Here’s what you need to know about Marvel’s newest superhero on the block. And how she fits into the Marvel World.

Meet Marvel’s Latest Superhero: The ‘She-Hulk’

Check out what's going on with post-Roe privacy, primaries, and reading ruts in your Daily Skimm Weekend.

Daily Skimm Weekend: Post-Roe Privacy, Primaries, and Reading Ruts

With the reversal of Roe v. Wade, experts are worried personal data could play a role in prosecuting abortion-related cases. Here’s how to keep your info protected online.  

How Your Search History, Period Tracker App, and Texts Could Help Enforce Anti-Abortion Laws

The sports classic is getting a 2022 glow-up. Co-creators Abbi Jacobson and Will Graham dive into the stories the OG film left out.

‘A League of Their Own’ Reboot Explores Sexism and Racism in 1940s America

As kids get ready to go back to school, state officials are scrambling to get teachers into classrooms. Here’s why. 

How The Teacher Shortage Could Impact Your Child's Education

Spoiler: It doesn’t always imply guilt.

What Does It Really Mean To Plead The Fifth?

The former Nickelodeon star is opening up about her mother’s abuse and experience as a child actor in a new memoir. Here’s a closer look at “I’m Glad My Mom Died” and why it has people talking. 

Why Former Child Star Jennette McCurdy’s Memoir Is Making Headlines

Ever since SCOTUS' decision, abortion legislation's been left up to states. Here's how the country is fighting for and against abortion access after the reversal of Roe v. Wade.

Tracking How Abortion Legal Battles Are Heating Up in a Post-Roe World 

ICYMI, #RushTok has returned to TikTok. And for many fans, it’s season 2 of the mini docuseries they didn’t know they needed. Here’s why it’s all over your feed. And the larger questions it's raising about diversity and inclusivity. 

#RushTok Is Back. Here’s Everything You Need To Know.

Thanks to a combo of un-beer-lievable circumstances, a carbon dioxide shortage is hitting breweries hard.

How the Carbon Dioxide Shortage Is Leaving Beer Glasses Empty

Titanium dioxide is in many foods you eat and everyday products you use. Now, a number of TikTok videos are spotlighting how the ingredient is used in tampons. Leaving many to ask: Am I safe? Here’s what experts say. 

TikTok Is Raising Alarms About Titanium Dioxide In Tampons and Food. Should You Be Concerned?

Here's a state-by-state breakdown of abortion laws. From restrictions and exceptions, to trigger laws and medication abortion.

How Your State Handles Abortion Access: A State-by-State Guide to Abortion Restrictions

Selena Quintanilla’s family is honoring her with a new album. Here’s why some people aren’t loving the idea. 

Selena Quintanilla’s New Album Features Digitally Altered Vocals. Here's Why It's Getting Mixed Reviews.

One of Beyoncé’s new songs is falling flat with disability advocates. Here’s why the superstar’s making changes.

Beyoncé’s ‘Heated’ Is Facing Backlash. Why It Isn’t Music To Everyone’s Ears. 

July was another difficult month of ‘wtf is happening’ news. So let’s take a minute to catch our breath and read some happier stories.

Some (Inter)stellar Pics, An Eco-Friendly Barbie, and 10 Other Good News Stories from July

Queen Bey’s "Renaissance" is officially out. Here’s what you need to know to get in formation.

Get In Formation. Beyoncé’s Giving Us A ‘Renaissance.’

ICYMI, the American West has been living under drought conditions for the past 22 years. And this year is breaking records with heat waves and wildfires. Here’s how it impacts your life.

The US Is Feeling the Heat. What Droughts, Heat Waves, And Wildfires Have To Do With It. 

The 105-mile-long Mirror Line claims to be a pollution-free, sustainable utopia. But many are questioning whether it isn’t more of a dystopia. 

Saudi Arabia’s Smart City: Flying Taxis, No Carbon Emissions, And Lots of Controversy

It’s been more than a year since the Jan. 6 attack. But a series of televised hearings are shedding light on what led up to the violence. If you haven’t had time to tune in, here's what you need to know. 

Key Takeaways From The Jan. 6 Hearings If You Haven’t Had Time To Watch

Indiana’s considering a near-total ban on abortion. VP Kamala Harris spoke to theSkimm about what that means for abortion rights across the US — and for the upcoming midterms.

Indiana’s Considering A Near-Total Abortion Ban. Here’s Why VP Kamala Harris Says It’s Part Of A Larger ‘Health Care Crisis.’

Check out what's going on with abortion doulas, doombingeing, and pointless goals in your Daily Skimm Weekend.

Daily Skimm Weekend: Abortion Doulas, Doombingeing, Pointless Goals

The US and Europe are in the midst of widespread heatwaves. Which is raising concerns about heat-related illnesses. Here's how to stay safe in hot weather.

How to Avoid Common Heat-Related Illnesses When Climate Change Keeps Bringing the Heat

Calling all “Insecure” fans: Issa Rae’s back with a new show. Here’s how “Rap Sh!t” is tackling stereotypes in the music biz all while delivering laughs. 

Issa Rae’s Back With A New Show. Here’s Why You Won’t Want To Miss ‘Rap Sh!t.’ 

For years, abortion doulas have helped people navigate a procedure that’s been at the center of political debate. Now, one woman is sharing her journey to becoming one. And what the future of her work looks like in a post-Roe America. 

‘A Doula Has One Job: It’s You.’ An Abortion Doula On Her Work And What The Future Looks Like After Roe.

BA.5 is spreading fast across the US. And those who’ve already been vaxxed and infected aren’t entirely safe. Here’s what Dr. Fauci’s saying about your best lines of defense. 

BA.5’s Spreading Quickly. But Dr. Fauci Says It Doesn’t Have To ‘Disrupt Your Life.’ Here’s Why.

With the overturn of Roe v. Wade, your state Supreme Court just got more important than ever. Here's how they affect your rights — and how you can impact the court with your vote.

Order in The Court: How State Supreme Courts Work. And Why They Especially Matter For the Midterms.

If it’s one thing we’ve learned from Barbie’s life in plastic, it’s that she’s got style. Now, her hot-pink look has become the latest fashion trend. 

Meet: Barbiecore. Aka Everyone’s Latest Summer Obsession.

“Where the Crawdads Sing” is hitting the big screen. But the book-turned-movie is raising questions about the author’s connection to a 1995 murder in Africa. 

Did A Real Murder Inspire ‘Where the Crawdads Sing’? What You Need To Know About The New Film and The Author’s History.

This is the true story of 12 strangers, volunteering to live together in a house. No, it's not "The Real World.” In this show, the guests have to guess which celeb each person is related to.

'Claim to Fame' Hosts Kevin and Frankie Jonas Ask Contestants to Keep a Secret

Pop superstar Kesha’s on the hunt for the paranormal in the new series “Conjuring Kesha.” Here’s what you need to know about the show — from the celebrity guests, the spooky sites, and how to watch. Boo.

Spooky Szn Gets An Early Start With 'Conjuring Kesha' Premiere

In 2007, Tahyira Arias had an abortion. Amid the potential reversal of Roe v. Wade, she’s reflecting on her experience 15 years ago. And how it gave her the courage and power to live her life.

‘It Made Me Brave': How One Woman’s Abortion In College Changed Her Life

Larada Lee-Wallace has navigated two separate abortions. And is in the process of having their third. Here's how each one has exposed different barriers to access.

‘Abortion Is Essential, Whatever The Reason’: How Navigating 3 Separate Abortions Raised Unique Challenges

In 2019, Karli VanZile had an abortion. But it took another life-changing event for her to open up about her story. Here’s how both experiences have ushered her into an activist role.

Having An Abortion Was A Difficult Choice. But She Knew It Was Right: ‘It Doesn’t Have To Be One That I Regret’

Over a decade ago, Stephanie had two abortions. But she's only just started to explore how each one changed her life. Now amid the reversal of Roe v. Wade, she’s sharing her story, including how she’s overcoming feelings of shame.

She Was Ashamed Of Her Two Abortions. Now, She’s Sharing Her Story: 'I Know I Made The Right Decision.’

The abortion debate typically sways between being anti-abortion or being for abortion rights. But is it possible to identify as both? Spoiler: It’s complicated. Here’s what experts are saying about Americans’ complex attitudes toward abortion. And why it matters. 

Where Do Americans Stand On Abortion? The Truth’s Complicated.

Juneteenth — also known as Freedom Day — is upon us. Here's what you need to know about the holiday.

The History of Juneteenth

Pride Month is here. And no matter where you are, you can show your support. Whether it’s donating to a good cause, supporting a queer business, or following an LGBTQ+ creator.

Celebrate Pride Month 2022 With Parades, Queer Creators, LGBTQ+ Orgs, and More

More abortion restrictions have been enacted across the country in 2022 than in any previous year. And you might have questions. Here are answers about laws, terminology, and the procedure itself.

Everything You Need to Know About Abortion

The news cycle can be heavy. So let’s focus on some happy stories from this month. Like Harry Styles collab'ing with Shania Twain, a female coach making MLB history, and more. 

Harry Styles at Coachella, Dog Adoptions, And 7 Other Good News Stories From April

Meet Dylan Mulvaney: The trans TikTok star who’s using social media to share vulnerability, joy, and discovery with millions.

‘I Never Got To Be A Girl Growing Up’: Dylan Mulvaney On Sharing Her Transition Journey on TikTok

Climate change headlines have simmered down in recent months. But here’s why taking action is hotter than ever. Especially in the 2022 midterm elections.

What Your Vote In the Midterms Can Mean for Climate Change

Misinformation and disinformation have sparked some serious info wars. From the 2022 midterms, to the pandemic, to the Russia-Ukraine war. Here’s how twisted (read: false) information is impacting people's decisions and leaving its mark on governments.

Spotting Misinformation is Harder Than You Think. Here's Where to Start.

Four-day work weeks have been the talk of the town for years. But COVID-19 put it back in the spotlight. We’re answering your Qs about the concept — including the pros and cons, and whether this could soon become a reality for workers.

Are Four-Day Work Weeks in Our Future?

Get your avatar ready, the metaverse is (sort of, almost) here. Tech companies are making big bets on the virtual universe — developing everything from the actual virtual space to the tech needed to access it. We Skimm’d what the metaverse is, how you’ll be able to use it, and the red flags it’s raising. 

What’s the Metaverse? Here’s How It’ll Spice Up Your Virtual Life 

Spoiler: She’s busy reinventing herself.


Where Is Anna Delvey Now? Your ‘Inventing Anna’ Questions, Answered

Awkwafina made headlines for her statement on her use of "blaccent." And while critics are saying her response doesn't go far enough, it did create a re-examination of the term. We spoke with a couple of experts to shed light on how blaccent affects the Black community in the US. 

How ‘Blaccents’ Appropriate Black Culture — And Why They’ve Flown Under the Radar for Decades

The Los Angeles Rams and Cincinnati Bengals are ready to battle it out on the football field for the Vince Lombardi trophy. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or only in it for the commercials — here’s what you need to know ahead of the big game.

What to Know Ahead of Super Bowl LVI, From Key Players to the Halftime Show

We’ve all heard storm-related terms like ‘tropical depression’ and ‘bomb cyclone.’ But what do they actually mean? Here’s your Skimm on those terms.

Storm Terms to Know and Help Keep You Safe

We’re breaking down the buzz on critical race theory — a concept typically practiced in higher education (read: law school). Since 2020, it’s been wrapped in misinformation across the country. So, ahead of the 2022 midterm elections, we chatted with some educators and experts who weighed in on the debate. 

Breaking Down the Buzz on Critical Race Theory

Omicron is the newest COVID-19 variant. Here’s everything we know so far.

Omicron: What To Know About the Newest COVID-19 Variant

It’s been a year since pro-Trump rioters stormed the US Capitol. Here’s where things stand in the aftermath.

The Aftermath of the Jan 6 Insurrection

About 62% of the entire US population is fully vaccinated. Here's what it means to be fully vaccinated, and what you can and shouldn't do once you're protected.

Guidelines for People Fully Vaccinated Against COVID-19

We’re well aware that the US doesn’t have a federal paid family leave policy. But where does that actually leave parents? Here’s what modern-day child care looks like for working Americans.

The Reality of Child Care in America Without Paid Family Leave

This year was a tough one. With bad news seemingly dominating the headlines, we gathered some good news stories for your feed. 

7 Good News Moments from 2021

‘Tis the season to get updated on the CDC’s guidelines so you can stay safe. And keep your family and friends safe too.

The Holidays and COVID-19: How to Stay Safe

The weather outside is frightful...and so is the prospect of a COVID-19 winter surge. Here’s what you should know ahead of a potential fifth wave of cases.

COVID-19 Winter Surge: What You Should Know

 If the federal government doesn’t pass a spending bill by midnight on Dec 3, there’ll be a partial gov shutdown. Here’s what that means.

What to Know About Government Shutdowns

On Nov 12, a judge freed Britney Spears from her conservatorship. We Skimm'd what a conservatorship is and how it works.

Thing to Know: Conservatorship

Following George Floyd’s death in 2020, calls to “defund the police” ignited across the country. Now a vote in Minneapolis is restarting the convo.

Thing to Know: 'Defund the Police'

The 2020 Tokyo Olympics were unlike any other before it. We Skimm’d the highlights, from protests to historic records to all the inspiration.

The Biggest Moments from the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, Skimm’d

Much of the western US is experiencing a drought. Here’s what’s causing it and how it’s impacting everything from drinking water to the food on your plate.

Why This Year's Drought in the Western US is Historic

Derek Chauvin’s murder conviction in the killing of George Floyd is a landmark moment. In part because murder convictions against cops are rare. Here’s why.

Derek Chauvin's Conviction: Why This Moment is Rare

India is dealing with a crushing COVID-19 outbreak. And its impacts are having ripple effects around the world, especially on poorer and developing countries. 

The Global Impact of India's COVID-19 Outbreak

As theSkimm HQ figures out how to spend the upcoming holidays, we wanted to check in with Skimm’rs and ask about their travel plans for the season. 
