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https://www.essence.com/beauty/perfect-matte-nail-look-summer-experts/

Shutterstock By Larry Stansbury ·Updated August 1, 2024

Summer is here and you’re likely in the mood to get your nails done. And, if you’re trying to budget and want to do your own nails, try a matte nail look. 

“Achieving the perfect matte nail look depends on the quality of the matte topcoat you use,” Mazz Hanna, CEO of Nailing Hollywood, tells ESSENCE. “Higher quality topcoats will provide a better, longer-lasting matte finish.”

Additionally, you need to prep the digits regardless of the nail length. “It’s important to properly prep the nail before painting a matte mani as if the nail isn’t buffed to a smooth finish, then ridges in your nail will be really obvious,” Thea Green, Founder of Nails.INC, says. “To keep the look chic, I’d recommend a shorter nail look as longer nails with a matte finish may be too extreme for everyday wear.”

Below, find a step by step guiding to nailing down the matte look. 

Make sure the nails are clean

Aaliyah Smith, a celebrity nail expert and founder of NailBiz, Green and Hanna recommend cleaning nails to create a smooth surface to enhance the longevity of the manicure. “Remove any old polish, trim and file your nails to your desired shape, then gently push back and/or trim your cuticles,” Hanna says. “Clean your nail plate with a nail prep solution or isopropyl alcohol using a lint-free wipe to ensure your nails are free of any oils or debris before polishing.” Then, make sure to file your nails for your desired shape and length. 

Apply a base coat

Smith recommends using a LED lamp when you apply a clear base coat. “After the application, cure the base coat under an LED lamp for around 60 seconds,” Smith says. “This step is crucial for protecting the natural nail and providing a foundation for the color.”

Apply the matte nail polish

Once the cure is set, it’s time to apply the color in thin, even layers. Hanna recommends making sure to cure each layer under the LED lamp and repeat as desired. After applying and letting the base coat dry, apply two or three thin coats of the matte nail polish. Hanna also notes to make sure each coat dries to prevent smudging if you’re using regular or gel polish. If anything, cure each coat with a gel lamp.

How to maintain the matte look

Being consistent with your matte nails will go a long way. “You can reapply the top coat if you notice it wearing off after a few days,” Hanna says. “When using oils and lotions, wipe the surface of your nail clean afterwards with water, or isopropyl alcohol if you have gel polish on, to prevent the matte finish from wearing off or becoming oily.” 

Are matte nails the summer trend?

Apparently, yes. According to Smith, Green and Hanna, matte nails are here for the season. “Matte nails are always inrel="tag">fake nails gel nail nail art trends

The post How To Achieve The Perfect Matte Nail Look appeared first on Essence.

https://nerdist.com/article/deadpool-wolverine-teased-hulk-battle/

In Deadpool & Wolverine, Wade Wilson tells Logan “You were an X-Man. You were THE X-Man.” But despite his association with mutant heroes, Wolverine’s first appearance was actually in the pages of The Incredible Hulk #181. That issue hit the stands in the summer of 1974. Since then, Wolverine and the Hulk have fought several times, always beating each other to a virtual standstill. Healing factors mean neither character can really stay injured for long. Their rivalry was so legendary, there is even an animated film, Hulk vs., which spends half its runtime on the Hulk fighting Wolverine. And now, even Deadpool & Wolverine has teased this fight, if only ever so briefly.

Because of various rights issues, for years, the two characters could never tussle on screen in live-action. But now, it’s finally possible. Deadpool & Wolverine teased their epic battle, when Wade goes timeline-hopping looking for a Wolverine to save his reality. He finds a Logan ready to battle the Hulk, before (sadly) moving on to another universe. Knowing fans have been dying to see Wolverine fight Hulk for decades and then not letting us see it as it was about to start was the ultimate tease. (That was mean, Feige!) Might they just be waiting for the right moment to give us the full fight? It’s one of Marvel’s longest-standing feuds, one with a long comic book history.

The Comic Book History of Wolverine vs. the Hulk

Wolverine first appeared as a Canadian hero sent to take down the Jade Giant by Canada’s Department H. Department H was Canada’s agency monitoring superhumans, and needed someone to take Hulk down when he crossed the border. At first, Hulk thought Logan was a friend. But things quickly changed, creating an animosity that’s lasted fifty years began. That was but the first of many fights between the two, across many different realities.

Over the past fifty years, we’ve witnessed Hulk and Logan tussle many times as “Old Man Logan” and the Maestro, Hulk’s evil future self. We also saw Wolverine take on Worldbreaker Hulk during the events of World War Hulk. In the Ultimate Universe, Hulk literally ripped Logan in half. (It was pretty gruesome). Every few years, these two mega-popular characters take a crack at each other. It’s now a Marvel Comics tradition.

The Incredible Hulk #340 Is Wolverine and Hulk’s Most Iconic Fight

Yet aside from their original meeting, their most famous battle occurred in The Incredible Hulk #340. That issue, illustrated by Spawn creator Todd McFarlane early in his career, had Logan fight the Hulk when he was in his slightly less powerful Gray Hulk incarnation. During this era, Hulk was going by the name Mr. Fixit, a Las Vegas enforcer. His personality wasn’t that of a savage beast, but he wasn’t the intellectual Bruce Banner either. Logan goes into his “berserker rage” while fighting Hulk in this issue, attacking him more savagely than ever before. The cover, with Hulk reflected in Wolverine’s claws, is one of Marvel’s most iconic covers ever, replicated for posters and t-shirts, and now Deadpool & Wolverine.

As Deadpool & Wolverine pointed out, during this epic fight, Wolverine was wearing his brown and tan costume, designed by Uncanny X-Men artist John Byrne in 1981. The film teases this epic battle, even showing the moment when the Hulk’s face is reflected in Logan’s adamantium claws. But then Wade leaves this timeline, and fans were robbed of seeing this iconic fight in live-action. At least for now. At least we got a brief glimpse of Hugh Jackman in that iconic costume. But it certainly left fans wanting more.

Could Avengers: Doomsday or Avengers: Secret Wars Finally Give Fans a Wolverine vs. Hulk Battle?

Marvel Studios’ Kevin Feige knows how badly fans have been wanting to see Logan and Hulk fight in live-action. There’s almost no way he doesn’t deliver on this tease at some point. Most likely in Avengers: Doomsday or Avengers: Secret Wars. Hopefully, Mark Ruffalo will be in his savage Hulk persona when he fights Wolverine. No shade against Professor Hulk, but it’s much more fun seeing Logan pop his claws against Hulk when he’s a being of pure rage. It’s unlikely that Marvel fans are going to see the fight in Deadpool & Wolverine play out. But one day, Logan and Bruce are going to come to blows on screen. Here’s hoping it’s as epic as when Deadpool and Wolverine finally got to kick the tar out of each other.

The post How DEADPOOL & WOLVERINE Teased One of Marvel Comics’ Greatest Ongoing Rivalries appeared first on Nerdist.

https://www.essence.com/entertainment/broccoli-city-festival-2024-recap/

WASHINGTON, DC – JULY 27: Megan Thee Stallion performs during Broccoli City Festival at Audi Field on July 27, 2024 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Kaitlyn Morris/Getty Images) By Kimberly Wilson ·Updated August 2, 2024

You asked, and the Broccoli City Festival team delivered. 

Washington D.C.’s premiere music festival — showcasing the city’s best food, culture, businesses, and local talent — made its return this past weekend at Audi Field. Thousands of fanssrc="https://www.essence.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/GettyImages-2164138909.jpg" alt="Broccoli City Festival Makes Triumphant Return To D.C. With An Enhanced Venue, Elevated Vibes, And An Unbeatable Artist Lineup" width="400" height="266" />WASHINGTON, DC – JULY 28: Sexyy Red performs on stage during the Broccoli City Festival 2024 at Audi Field on July 28, 2024 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Brian Stukes/Getty Images for The Recording Academy)

Later that night, the highlight of the festival was undoubtedly Megan Thee Stallion’s performance. Introduced by the ever-inspiring Issa Rae, who praised fellow hottie Megan for her “bars and body,” the atmosphere was charged with excitement. In true Rae fashion, she also announced her new album, “Issa The Pony,” because as she stated, “she’s not quite a pony yet.” This set the stage for a could only be unforgettable performance from the stallion, herself.

Megan Thee Stallion did not disappoint. She performed a series of fan favorites including “Savage,” “Hot Girl Summer,” and “Body, blending high-energy anthems with recent releases.

WASHINGTON, DC – JULY 27: Megan Thee Stallion performs on stage during the Broccoli City Festival 2024 at Audi Field on July 27, 2024 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Brian Stukes/Getty Images for The Recording Academy)

One of the standout performances of Sunday was delivered by Victoria Monét. Taking the stage following Kaytranada (who was upset for having his set cut short), Monét captivated the audience with her smooth vocals and dynamic stage presence. Performing GRAMMY award-winning hits like “Moment” and “Experience,” she showcased her impressive range and undeniable talent. Her set was a perfect blend of sultry and energetic, and set the tone for Gunna who would close out the show.

WASHINGTON, DC – JULY 28: Victoria Monet performs during Broccoli City Festival at Audi Field on July 28, 2024 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Kaitlyn Morris/Getty Images)

One of the most notable improvements this year was the new venue at Audi Field. The larger, more accommodating space made for a seamless experience for attendees. The layout was thoughtfully designed, with stages strategically placed to avoid sound overlap and plenty of room for festival-goers to move around comfortably. The addition of seating at the new venue also truly elevated the festival experience, making it easy to navigate and enjoy all that the event had to offer.

It wouldn’t be right to talk about Broccoli City Festival without addressing the elephant in the room — the weather! The beautiful weather also played a significant role in the festival’s success, and for the first time in years, concert-goers enjoyed clear skies and warm temperatures, with no rain in sight. The sunshine added to the vibrant energy of the event, creating a perfect backdrop for the performances and activities.

While the music was undoubtedly the star of the show, the 2024 Broccoli City Festival offered much more than just incredible performances. The festival grounds weredecoding="async" src="https://www.essence.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/GettyImages-2164135165.jpg" alt="Broccoli City Festival Makes Triumphant Return To D.C. With An Enhanced Venue, Elevated Vibes, And An Unbeatable Artist Lineup" width="400" height="266" />WASHINGTON, DC – JULY 28: A general view from the Broccoli City Festival 2024 at Audi Field on July 28, 2024 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Brian Stukes/Getty Images for The Recording Academy)

The vendor area buzzed with energy, offering a diverse array of products and services that highlighted the creativity and entrepreneurial spirit of the community, such as the Spice Suite, SELF Handmade Incense, Honey Glow, KIN Apparel and Tooth Couture. Attendees could explore a myriad of vendors featuring everything from handcrafted jewelry and unique fashion pieces to artisanal foods and natural skincare products. Each vendor brought something special to the festival, creating a marketplace that was as exciting and dynamic as the music itself. This curated experience allowed festival-goers to support small businesses and discover new favorites, making the event a true celebration of culture and community.

The art installations were another highlight, providing visually stunning and thought-provoking pieces that added to the festival’s vibrant atmosphere. Interactive experiences, such as photo booths and virtual reality stations, offered attendees unique ways to engage with the festival and create lasting memories.

WASHINGTON, DC – JULY 28: A general view from the Broccoli City Festival 2024 at Audi Field on July 28, 2024 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Brian Stukes/Getty Images for The Recording Academy)

Broccoli City Festival has always been about more than just music; it’s also about community and sustainability. This year was no different, with a strong emphasis on eco-friendly practices and community engagement. Recycling stations were strategically placed throughout the venue, and there were numerous initiatives aimed at reducing the festival’s carbon footprint. Additionally, the festival partnered with local organizations to promote health and wellness, providing resources and information to attendees.

As I reflect on the weekend, I can confidently say that the 2024 Broccoli City Festival was one of the best music festivals I’ve ever experienced. From the incredible performances to the seamless organization and beautiful weather, every aspect of the festival came together to create an unforgettable experience.

The post Broccoli City Festival Makes Triumphant Return To D.C. With An Enhanced Venue, Elevated Vibes, And An Unbeatable Artist Lineup appeared first on Essence.

https://nerdist.com/article/ryan-reynolds-4-year-old-daughter-hugh-jackman-wrangler/

Deadpool & Wolverine was a true Reynolds family affair. Three of Ryan Reynolds and Blake Lively’s children appeared on screen in the film in various cameo roles. They join both parents, with Blake Lively herself as none other than Lady Deadpool. But one of the Reynolds children had a special credit in the film, even if she did not appear on camera. According to Entertainment Weekly, the superstar couple’s 4-year-old daughter Betty gets a “Special Thanks” in the credits as “Hugh Jackman Wrangler: Betty Reynolds.” But what exactly is a Hugh Jackman Wrangler, and what does the job entail? We don’t know exactly, but Reynolds did drop some hints earlier this year in People Magazine.

I don’t profess that my kids are perfectly behaved. My 4-year-old Betty sort of loves Hugh, like, unconditionally, and she expresses that love through unblinking violence. So she attacks him, thinking she has claws and he has a healing factor — which he might.”

It’s somehow adorably perfect that Ryan Reynolds’ 4-year-old child shows her affection for Hugh Jackman in the same way her dad does—by attacking him mercilessly. Like father like daughter? We can only hope she calls him all kinds of names when she beats up Hugh. As for the other Reynolds kids, they all appeared on screen in some capacity. Two even joined their mother Blake as members of the Deadpool Corps.

7-year-old Inez Reynolds appears as the junior Deadpool variant Kidpool. (Whether or not someone else dubbed in her raunchy dialogue is currently unknown). Meanwhile, her 1-year-old brother, Olin, appears as the adorable little Babypool, who claps for Deadpool and Wolverine after the big third-act fight, the bloody bodies of his fellow Deadpools lying around him. Lastly, Ryan’s 9-year-old daughter James Reynolds has a credit on IMDb for her role as a “Screaming Mutant.” We’ll just have to freeze-frame the movie to find her when Deadpool & Wolverine finally hits streaming.

The post Ryan Reynolds’ 4-Year-Old Daughter Has a Special DEADPOOL & WOLVERINE Screen Credit appeared first on Nerdist.