As you age, your go-to sex positions might not age as gracefully alongside you. After decades of showing off your flexibility in bed, you may notice as you enter your 70s that your joints ache, your back hurts and you maybe can’t bend as easily as before.

Arthritis and other age-related conditions may also come into play — issues that likely didn’t affect you when you were younger. Not to mention there’s the age-old (no pun intended) myth that your sex life somehow “ends” after a certain age.

“Body image shifts, loss of a long-term partner and deeply internalized ageism are among the biggest barriers to intimacy after 70,” Alicia Sinclair, sex educator, founder and CEO of Le Wand, told HuffPost. “Sexual desire doesn’t have an expiration date, and neither does the need for connection and pleasure. Open communication with a partner — being explicit about what feels good and what doesn’t — often leads to greater intimacy than couples experienced in earlier years.”

Which means sex isn’t off the table after 70. Instead, it simply requires more adaptability and a better understanding of what works and what doesn’t.

Below is a list of sex positions that can become risky or uncomfortable after 70, — and expert-backed advice for what to try instead.

“This one catches people off guard,” according to Annette Benedetti, sex and intimacy coach and host of the podcast ”Talk Sex With Annette.” “Seventy-five percent of hip fractures happen in women, and bone density takes a nosedive after menopause. [The top partner’s] weight pressing down on [the bottom partner’s] hips and pelvis during missionary is exactly the kind of sustained force that can snap a fragile femur. Add vaginal atrophy and deep thrusting from above, and you’re also looking at vaginal tears and bleeding.”

Adds Sinclair: “Lying flat with a partner’s weight on top can compress the spine and make it difficult to breathe, especially for anyone with osteoporosis, spinal stenosis or limited hip mobility.”

Instead, Sinclair recommends using a wedge or positioning pillow under the hips to reduce lumbar strain or shifting to a side-lying position that keeps the spine in a neutral position.

Benedetti suggests flipping the dynamic with a modified cowgirl position, with the receiving partner on top, sitting upright on their partner’s lap or kneeling. “[The kneeling position] is what orthopedic specialists recommend for women with osteoporosis. She controls the depth, the pace, and the pressure goes through his body, not hers.”

“Sustained kneeling puts significant pressure on the knees and wrists, and the position can destabilize the lower back,” Sinclair said. “For anyone with knee replacements, arthritis or balance issues, it’s a real injury risk.”

Benedetti adds that rear-entry positions with deep thrusting may also become uncomfortable over time. “With age — especially after menopause or other hormonal changes — internal tissues can become shorter, thinner and more sensitive. What once felt pleasurable can start to feel uncomfortable or even painful, with a higher risk of irritation or small tears.”

As an alternative, Sinclair recommends a supported standing variation, where one partner leans over a bed or cushioned surface, keeping weight off the knees entirely.

Another option is spooning. “You get a similar rear-entry angle and sense of closeness, but the receiving partner can control depth by adjusting their leg position,” Benedetti said. “It also removes pressure from the knees, wrists and shoulders, making it a much more comfortable choice overall.”

“This position demands hip flexion that older joints often can’t handle safely, especially for people with hip replacements or conditions like arthritis,” Benedetti said. “It can also create very deep penetration at a time when tissues may be more sensitive. That’s a challenging combination.”

The better option? Reclining with a pillow wedge under the hips. Keep the knees bent and slightly apart, with the hips gently elevated to achieve a similar angle — without putting excess strain on the joints. This allows for better alignment and comfort while reducing orthopedic risk.

“This requires quad strength, hip flexibility and balance — all of which decline with age,” Sinclair said. “A fall or sudden movement can cause hip fractures or knee injuries, which are among the most serious fall-related injuries in older adults.”

If you’re keen on doing the position, Sinclair recommends using a supported seated straddle — sitting face-to-face in a sturdy chair or using a dedicated intimate machine like The Cowgirl with a low, stable platform, which distributes weight differently and reduces fall risk dramatically.

“Balance and bone density both decline after 70, and the one-year mortality rate after a hip fracture sits around 25%,” Benedetti said. “A fall during sex isn’t a punchline; it’s a serious event.”

What can you do instead? Benedetti suggests using a sturdy armchair. One partner sits while the other straddles. Face-to-face, full-body contact — all the closeness without the risk of a fall.

Sex might look and feel different in your 70s than it did in previous decades, but it doesn’t mean it has to feel less pleasurable. With a better understanding of the body’s changing needs, couples can adapt their sex life rather than give up on it.

If you’re looking to bolster your cognitive abilities and keep your mind sharp throughout your lifetime, you may want to pick up a musical instrument. A 2024 study published in the International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry found that playing is good for your brain health as you age.

Researchers examined 1,107 people in the U.K. over the age of 40 with an average age of 67.82. Participants self-reported their musical experience via a questionnaire and took part in a cognitive assessment, which tested their working memory and executive function. Researchers then studied how four aspects of musicality — listening to music, playing an instrument, singing and self-reported ability — impacted cognitive behavior and compared that to people who did not have a musical background.

“This large-scale, longitudinal study supports previous research indicating that musical training supports cognitive health by improving memory and lowering risk for age-related cognitive decline,” Dr. Gary Small, a memory, brain and aging expert at Hackensack Meridian Health in New Jersey, told HuffPost via email. Small is not affiliated with the study.

It’s worth noting that 83% of participants were women, so it’s not totally indicative of the general population. Another caveat is that some data was self-reported, said Dr. Arman Fesharaki-Zadeh, a behavioral neurologist and neuropsychiatrist at Yale Medicine in Connecticut, who is not affiliated with the study. Self-reporting leaves room for error; people may misremember their musical background or misunderstand a question.

Playing music largely involves your executive function, so it’s natural for folks with a musical background to see an improvement in the brain, said Dr. Golnaz Yadollahikhales, a neurologist at Cedars-Sinai in California, who is not affiliated with the study.

Your executive function refers to your “ability to multitask and organize oneself, and being able to sequence and prioritize,” Fesharaki-Zadeh explained. Additionally, playing music keeps you cognitively active, meaning it challenges your brain.

“Being cognitively active throughout one’s life can have a protective role” in brain health, Fesharaki-Zadeh continued. This is known as your cognitive reservoir (or cognitive reserve) and activities like playing music can build this up.

Yadollahikhales noted that she’s seen the study’s findings in her day-to-day work, too. People with a good cognitive reserve perform well even when their brain imaging has signs of atrophy. Brain atrophy is linked to issues like dementia and aphasia, according to the Cleveland Clinic.

“The patients of mine who were musicians or who were still playing music at the time of diagnosis would show better cognitive function than what was expected to be seen based on their structural imaging findings,” Yadollahikhales said.

You may want to consider dabbling in music. The research and the experts who spoke to HuffPost were all pretty clear that playing musical instruments and singing can be beneficial for your long-term cognition.

If you’re ready to start some lessons and are open to the process, consider trying specific instruments. The study found that playing keyboard-based instruments, like the piano or organ, had the biggest benefit on memory and executive function, study author Anne Corbett told Newsweek, followed by brass and woodwind instruments.

The social aspect of music may be beneficial for your brain, too. Corbett also told Newsweek that the singers in the study had better complex task completion as they aged. But the study noted that the benefits that come with singing may also have to do with the social connections that are formed when singing with a choir or in a group setting.

“Music doesn’t usually happen in isolation,” Fesharaki-Zadeh said. Think about it: Music is often played in a group, practiced with a teacher or performed for other people. That social interaction is one of those protective factors for brain health, he added.

Bottom line: You’re never too old to start learning and challenging your brain.

“Overall, it is recommended that people start building their cognitive reserve early in life,” Yadollahikhales said. “This can be achieved by playing music and games such as puzzles, reading books and being physically active … also, as mentioned in this study as well, higher education can affect cognitive reserve positively.”

Even if it’s been years or even decades since you’ve challenged your brain to something new, hope is not lost. “We’re never too old to learn, I think that’s a known concept,” Fesharaki-Zadeh said. Benefits can be seen whether you’re 65 or 18.

Neurogenesis, the forming of new connections and new cells in the brain, is often not as robust for someone in their mid-70s when compared to someone, say, learning at a new job in their mid-20s. But by learning music (or by learning anything new) you activate this process again, Fesharaki-Zadeh added.

“So, let’s say somebody doesn’t have dementia [and] they’re wondering what are the ways that they can protect their brains against dementia — music could be potentially a viable strategy because it does incorporate a lot of the other factors such as learning, emotional well-being, social connections ― and they’re all great for the brain,” Fesharaki-Zadeh said.

It’s important to keep in mind that while you can control certain risk factors, you can’t control your genetics.

“Although this study demonstrates that musicality provides a significant cognitive benefit, other non-genetic … and genetic risk factors contribute to the risk of cognitive decline,” Small said. “So, even highly successful people with healthy lifestyles will develop dementia if they have a strong genetic predisposition.”

But, as Yadollahikhales mentioned above, if you build your cognitive reserve throughout your life, you’ll be better off if you do develop cognitive impairment or dementia. Studies “have shown that being cognitively, socially and physically active after the development of cognitive impairment and dementia can slow down the progression of the disease,” Yadollahikhales said.

So go ahead and pick up that guitar ― or whatever instrument makes you happy.

The original version of this story was published on HuffPost at an earlier date.

Sometimes, your regular shampoo and conditioner just don’t cut it, especially if your strands are changing due to age, a new environment or hormones. Thankfully, we’ve spotted a deep-conditioning mask that handles everything from dullness to frizz to more extensive damage. Briogeo’s “Don’t Despair, Repair!” at-home treatment that reviewers say makes hair “noticeably softer and less dry,” in as little as 15 minutes. Several reviewers swear this “saved” their hair to the point of straight-up happy tears. Its 2-ounce tube is $15 and if you need more, we spotted the more big jar for 50% off, TODAY only, as part of Sephora’s flash Hair Faves sales, running through May 4.

Reviewers say this quick, weekly treatment is “the real deal” for trading heartbreaking damage for salon-like soft and bouncy hair at home.

“My ends were dry, frizzy, and honestly just sad—but after using Briogeo Don’t Despair, Repair! once a week, my hair feels softer, smoother, and way more manageable,” one user, wrote about the magic in a tub. ”…I leave it on for about 10–15 minutes and rinse, and it instantly makes my hair feel like I just left a salon.”

“I had been experiencing so much shedding and breakage that I was gravely concerned and quite honestly, growing desperate,” another person wrote about their pre-mask curly challenges.

“After one use (yes just one) I can already tell a major difference in my hair! My curls have more definition and there is a “bounce” to them again. I haven’t seen my hair have that ‘bounce’ in so long! It made me so happy I literally teared up!! I’m looking forward to seeing the health of my hair improve even more thanks to this wonderful product! Definitely a 10 out of 10!!! ❤️”

Say good by to kitchen concoctions and long stints underneath a dryer. Made with plant protein, biotin, algae extract and almond, argan and rosehip oils, this leave-in mask is designed to strengthen, repair and hydrate your hair quickly. The brand advises one-time application weekly for just 10 minutes, in place of your regular conditioner. Just let it sit, then rinse.

However, some users shared that they had a smooth experience with positive changes, even if they didn’t follow the directions to a tee. “The jar is actually bigger than I expected, well packaged and so soft and easy to glide through your hair,” shopper Florence said.

“Read directions because the product recommends you leave on for 10 minutes before rinsing,I didn’t have 10 minutes to wait and my hair still became manageable and looks wonderful again!”

And several folks report the product not only being easy to use but making styling their hair easier after rinse-out — from detangling to styling.

One reviewer, who tried the mask from a Sephora sample, called the mask a “miracle tamer of the crazy white hairs!” “I am starting to go white (not gray, seriously, white) and those white hairs are course and have a mind of their own,” they wrote. “This seemed to tame them and keep them in line with the rest of my hair. To me that’s everything. Nothing worse than crazy white hairs sticking out everywhere.”

Others call the conditioner “great for greying hair,” especially for capturing the “shine and bounce” of the salon. “You’re going to be thrilled with the smooth and silky feel of the mask that’s done its magic,” one said. ”…Styling after using the mask is a breeze again and you’re going to look like you just walked out of the salon! When the grey hair shines, it looks healthy and blends better with the rest of your hair.”

Reviewers who had damaged hair from salon treatments report similair results. “I recently had my hair professionally colored, and it definitely dried out my hair,” one said, noting that after using the “magic” mask one time, “I’m shocked at how soft it is, and tangle free!”

“My hair felt like broom straw after it was bleached (never again!) and I bought this as a Hail Mary,” another wrote. “After 1 use my hair felt almost back to normal, after the 2nd use it felt soft, luxurious, and wonderful.”

Reviewers love this deep conditioning mask for making their locks softer and smoother. Read more 5-star Amazon reviews, then try the smaller size at Amazon for $15 or grab the large size on sale at Sephora.

“This hair mask is the real deal. My ends were dry, frizzy, and honestly just sad—but after using Briogeo Don’t Despair, Repair! once a week, my hair feels softer, smoother, and way more manageable. It smells amazing (clean and fresh without being too strong), and the texture is super creamy without weighing my hair down. I leave it on for about 10–15 minutes and rinse, and it instantly makes my hair feel like I just left a salon. Bonus: it’s clean and cruelty-free, which makes me feel even better about slathering it all over my head. Total game-changer for damaged or color-treated hair.” — Aura’s Of Amara

“This stuff is magic. I recently had my hair professionally colored, and it definitely dried out my hair. I had heard wonderful things about the whole Don’t Despair, Repair line and I decided to try this mask and the protein treatment. I just dried my hair and I’m shocked at how soft it is, and tangle free! Definitely give this a try if you have dry or damaged hair – I loved it so much I ordered the matching shampoo and conditioner! Can’t wait to try the whole line together!” — Phaedra

“I’m 60+ and found out that when you have enough gray hair going, it comes in dull and lifeless, a little wiry and has a mind of its own. You may leave the salon with shine and bounce to discover all that disappears when you shampoo and condition yourself at home. Here is the solution. After shampooing, rinse, then load a small scoop of this mask onto your hair, massaging it into your scalp and through to the ends (I have longer than shoulder length hair ) don a conditioning cap to keep your wet hair from dripping everywhere and wait 10 minutes. Then rinse it out, add your usual conditioner and rinse again. You’re going to be thrilled with the smooth and silky feel of the mask that’s done its magic. Plus the confidence that you’ve elected to use a product that is not full of harmful petroleum chemicals, preservatives and the like, that seep into your scalp and cause breakouts, hormone disruption and other additives that they secretly add to lots of hair products. Styling after using the mask is a breeze again and you’re going to look like you just walked out of the salon! When the grey hair shines, it looks healthy and blends better with the rest of your hair. Love this stuff!” — Belinda W

“Everyone’s hair is different. My hair is superfine, dyed, thinning and old (I am 73). I got a sample of this wonderful product a while ago and I am still rejoicing that it found me. It is great to be able to buy it in a larger quantity. My thin hair has much more volume and body after using this product. It is shiny and has a great texture. It never weighs my hair down and never dries it out. I simply love how my hair looks after using it.” — J.E. preston

The Real Deal: We use deal trackers and commerce experience to sift through “fake” hike-and-drop deals and other deceptive sales tactics. Products will usually be rated at least 4 stars with a minimum 15% discount. (And when there’s an exception, we’ll tell you why.)

While CeraVe makes great, basic cleansers and whole body lotions, don’t get it twisted — the brand make skin care, skin care too. By that, I mean stuff that’s highly praised for having the efficacy of high-end formulas minus the price. Case in point: the ever in-demand resurfacing retinol serum that’s currently buy one, get one 50% on Amazon if you’re fast enough to grab it. Plus the “one” that you grab is already on its own 15% off sale. That, people, is a worthy deal.

Deemed the brand’s “best kept secret” and “life-changing” skin care for smoothing bumps, lessening the appearance of pores, brightening dark spots, healing acne and acne scars, and generally helping menopausal and mature skin, reviewers say this stuff works better than options triple its price.

From acne to fine lines, reviewers call it a “cure-all” product that takes away any need to shell out for “super expensive skin care.”

“I’m a 50+ year-old woman who’s been dealing with both fine lines and dark spot marks, and I’m really impressed with the results from the CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum,” one wrote.

“After using it for a few weeks, I’ve noticed my skin is smoother, my pores look smaller, and those stubborn dark spots are slowly fading.”

Created with encapsulated retinol, licorice root extract, niacinamide and ceramides 1, 3 and 6-11, the resurfacing serum is potent on trouble spots, but still mild enough to be used daily. These powerful ingredients work overtime to smooth and brighten skin, minimize pores and reduce acne marks without stripping the skin’s natural barrier. And, as with all CeraVe products, the serum is fragrance-free and designed not to clog pores.

“TIGHTENS AND REFINES,” one said. “Large pores really diminish with this serum! It’s compatible with my foundation and sunscreen and doesn’t dry my (mature, very dry) skin. Definitely will purchase again.”

A multi-tasking skin care product is nearly always a better buy.

“This product is life changing (paired with a CeraVe cleanser too)!!! I am 26 years old and have struggled badly with acne most of my twenties,” reviewer Kat wrote.

“This serum truly aids in reducing post acne marks and it’s also good to use in order to prevent fine lines. I’ve even applied the serum onto ingrown hair marks on my legs and they’ve gotten lighter.”

Reviewers credit the serum for leveling out the appearance of texture, discoloring, hyperpigmentation and blemishes. One reviewer who applies the serum at night writes they wake up with their face “feeling real nice and tight.” “My esthetician said my face has no wrinkles and my skin bounces back which us an amazing feeling,” they said.

″…My entire life I’ve suffered with acne scars, either from being in the sun too much or hormonal menopause changes recently,” another said. “This product has not only lightened these scars after the first bottle, I’m able to just wear a baby cream and concealer under my eyes period before that I will be wearing heavy foundation, powder, double cover up! I would recommend this to anyone looking to firm up their skin get rid of dark age spots, acne scars..”

If you’re new to retinol, you want to start off slowly with a thin layer and let it fully absorb before layering more products on. If you’re seasoned, then you likely already know this: Because retinol makes new skin cells grow super fast, it can create a sort of traffic-jam effect of breakouts and irritation as the dead skin cells try to exit your face all at once. Many reviews speak to this with the CeraVe serum, noting a “purge period” for about a month of use. But have no fear, it doesn’t last.

“THIS IS NORMAL and it goes away like magic,” one wrote about their purging period. “Not only did this delete my acne permanently, it also cured my dark spots, hyperpigmentation, and eye bags. I get so many compliments on my glowy smooth skin now, and people don’t even believe me when I say I used to have bad acne!”

Additionally, because retinol products can make you sunburn more easily, the brand recommends being diligent with daily facial sunscreen when using this product. This isn’t alarming either because truth be told, you should be doing this anyway — retinol or no retinol. (Plus, if you need a good UV-blocker, CeraVe has a highly-rated one that plays nicely with the serum, which is also a solid grab.)

Want to try the CeraVe resurfacing retinol serum? Read some five-star reviews from people who love it.

“I’m a 50+ year-old woman who’s been dealing with both fine lines and dark spot marks, and I’m really impressed with the results from the CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum. After using it for a few weeks, I’ve noticed my skin is smoother, my pores look smaller, and those stubborn dark spots are slowly fading.

The serum has a lightweight, non-greasy texture that absorbs quickly and doesn’t irritate my sensitive skin. It helps brighten my complexion without causing dryness or redness. Plus, I don’t have to worry about clogged pores, which is a big concern for me.

Overall, this is a great option for mature skin looking to address signs of aging. I’m excited to keep using it and see even more improvement! Highly recommend it for anyone in their 40s or 50s with similar skin concerns.” — Joan’s RV Life

“Best kept secret! Excellent product, consistency and feel. Totally unexpected at this price point! Bought 2 in November for my daughter and I, couple of weeks later gave mine to my teenage son for his acne spots and just ordered 2 more tubes. LOVE IT. I may need to transition to Tret eventually, but this is a great warm up. I could feel results after 2 days…and overnight visual improvement of acne.” — LS

“Perfect for night time use and I get up and my face feeling real nice and tight. My esthetician said my face has no wrinkles and my skin bounces back which us an amazing feeling.” — S Salvatore

“Updated review: People of EVERY age need this product! I’ve officially been using it for three months, and not only did it literally erase the freckles off of my face, but I no longer have the deep 11 lines between my eyes anymore. Not to mention that when I started using this product, I had terrible breakouts of acne in my T-zone due to hormonal changes related to peri-menopause and for at least the last month, I have not had a single pimple or blackhead anywhere on my face despite having made no changes to my diet, activity level, medications, etc. Acne was the reason I started using it, but getting rid of wrinkles is an absolutely acceptable side effect!” — Della

Again, retinol makes you more sensitive to the sun, so a facial sunscreen is a must. Being better about your sunscreen will also help out with premature aging if that’s more of a motivator. Either way, here are 3 low-cost, high-quality options below — courtesy of HuffPost shopping.

The Real Deal: We use deal trackers and commerce experience to sift through “fake” hike-and-drop deals and other deceptive sales tactics. Products will usually be rated at least 4 stars with a minimum 15% discount. (And when there’s an exception, we’ll tell you why.)

Rosemary is a potent, government-studied ingredient in body care — namely for boosting thinning or balding hair. We’ve covered the stuff quite a bit, speaking to dermatologists and even trichologists (hair and scalp specialists, yes that’s a thing) about rosemary’s ability to condition and strengthen hair, soothe the scalp and even its potential to accelerate new hair growth.

Needless to say, we’re all for adding rosemary to your routine, so when we spotted this root-enhancing rosemary water spray from Korean beauty brand Aromatica and saw it was on sale, we knew we needed to tell the people. The spray is already cheaper on Amazon than it is on the brand’s website, and right now, when you hit the coupon for 15% off, you get even more savings — making the spray closer to 40% off its list price.

Not an oil or a mask, this “better than dry shampoo” water-based spray can go on wet or dry hair to give your strands a boost.

When it comes to products for hair retention and fullness, many options are made for the shower. While we love masks and shampoos, the Aromatica spray feels extra versatile and easy to incorporate, as a non-greasy spray that can be used wherever, whenever.

Users celebrate the pump bottle that creates a “fine spritz” that “doesn’t make the scalp/ hair looks greasy.” “Smells great and doesn’t make your hair feel weird!” one wrote. “I like the sprayer because you can get right to the roots!”

According to the brand, the formula is inspired by aromatherapy, made with a captivating mix of rosemary scalp hair oil and rosemary water as well as biotin, caffeine, salicylic acid, menthol, lavender and spearmint oils and other plant extracts. The formula is made to give conditions and strengthen your stands, but also to gently exfoliate and condition your scalp. Reviewers say it makes for a great thickening agent, but also works to make hair look clean, fresh and just good.

“I use the oil at night around the nape, but refresh my scalp in the morning with this daily,” one wrote. “This is better than dry shampoo! Using this with a little cool shot from the dryer to then dry the roots has helped me go 3 days without washing, and have clean and voluminous hair!”

Remember those previously-mentioned government studies? Rosemary doesn’t just smell good and make hair feel fresh — it’s actually been indicated to be a comparable alternative to minoxidil, a common over-the-counter hair loss treatment, in studies of adults dealing with hair loss from alopecia.

In previous HuffPost reporting, experts have confirmed these findings, with Dr. Marisa Garshick, a board-certified dermatologist, previously saying, “research has also indicated that rosemary oil can potentially accelerate hair growth by improving blood circulation in the scalp, which stimulates hair follicles.”

Many reviewers call the spray “a mist worth the money” speaking to choosing this rosemary spray over minoxidil.

“I bought this after reading a couple of studies that showed Rosemary and minoxidil both were used on human subjects with androgenetic alopecia (male or female pattern baldness),” Escanor said. “Results showed that rosemary essential oil was just as effective [as] minoxidil without the side effects. Also, this smells like heaven. It’s quiet relaxing once you use it on your scalp it’s great aromatherapy for the end of the day or beginning.”

Another reviewer who has traction alopecia says the spray has worked wonders. “I have tried oils that claim hair growth but this one really does help,” they said. “My side is filling up and looking darker with hair. I see long strands where it used to be bald! I used to use hair powder to cover up bald spots but I don’t have to anymore. While my hair is still thing hair has grown or hair is growing! I love it! It’s part of my hair routine!”

Reviewers are opting for this rosemary root spray to keep their locks feeling long and luscious. Read more 5-star reviews and grab a bottle on sale.

“I have been experiencing a tremendous amount of hair fall lately and am scared of going bald. However, I came across a mist/serum that has a non-greasy and non-sticky formula. It has a watery consistency and provides a cooling sensation when applied. I have seen good results so far and this is my second bottle of the product.” — Roshni Jariwala

“I have used this product for 2 days & there is a noticeable difference in my hair loss. I have been losing hair rapidly on a daily basis due to hormone imbalance. Strands of hair would fall out when I ran my fingers through my hair, stands on my pillow in the mornings and on my blouses. After showers I would have clumps of hair on the floor, it has been bad. I applied this product at night, the next morning there were no strands of hair on my pillow. I brushed my hair prepared to see the strands fall as they have been, but only 3 to 5 strands came off the brush….that is insane compared to the 20 to 30 strands that usually come off. I have recommended this product to other friends on HRT going through menopause, it’s a game changer!!” — Momof2

“For those whose hair is thinning or balding. I bought this after reading a couple of studies that showed Rosemary and minoxidil both were used on human subjects with androgenetic alopecia (male or female pattern baldness). Results showed that rosemary essential oil was just as effective a minoxidil without the side effects. Also, this smells like heaven. It’s quiet relaxing once you use it on your scalp it’s great aromatherapy for the end of the day or beginning.” — Escanor

“I have fine thin hair, and noticed after a recent surgery I had hair loss around the nape of my scalp due to the stress to my body and what I am sure is ‘traction alopecia’. I do wear my hair up nearly every day, so this was upsetting. I decided to try this as well as a rosemary scalp oil as research has shown rosemary is as effective as minoxidil in trials, and with monoxidil you have to use it forever or lose the hair you grew back from it. I use the oil at night around the nape, but refresh my scalp in the morning with this daily. This is better than dry shampoo! Using this with a little cool shot from the dryer to then dry the roots has helped me go 3 days without washing, and have clean and voluminous hair! I can’t speak yet to the effectiveness of growing my hair back with the help of rosemary products, but this is a great addition to my routine regardless.” — Seattle Kitten

The Real Deal: We use deal trackers and commerce experience to sift through “fake” hike-and-drop deals and other deceptive sales tactics. Products will usually be rated at least 4 stars with a minimum 15% discount. (And when there’s an exception, we’ll tell you why.)

It’s not breaking news that exfoliating pads remove makeup and tone skin pretty well. However, we’ve spotted RoC’s Line Smoothing cleansing pads that do you one better: RoC made these babies to remove makeup and work to smooth fine lines — and shockingly, reviewers are reporting that they’re actually effective. People are literally canceling Botox appointments because these foam-infused pads are surprisingly doing quite enough. And the kicker is that they’re only $10 right now on Amazon. A $10 alternative to a beauty procedure? Consider us attentive.

“I usually get Botox twice a year,” one shopper shared.

Let’s get this out of the way: Of course, the pads don’t perform an actual Botox treatment. Needles are sold separately and at a much higher price. However, reviewers say the changes they are seeing have been more than enough to pause office visits in favor of a simple tweak to their skincare routine.

“Normally I would feel the need to get botox again by this point but these really do smooth my fine lines,” they continued.

“I’m not exaggerating when I say they give you an instant facelift.”

Instant facelift is a tall order for cleansing pads, so we always raise our virtual eyebrows when anyone shares that about a skin care product — except this isn’t the only shopper who decided against a procedure after trying these specific pads.👀

No joke, reviewers call the foamy discs a “much less expensive and invasive option” than Botox, while providing the Botox-like smoothing.

“I am 53 and my concerns were forehead furrows, lip lines, marionette lines and some jowls starting to sag. I was considering looking into mini lift or maybe fillers like Botox,” another reviewer shared, noting they were concerned the pads would be “strong enough” as they don’t contain retinol.

“The results from using this product have been significant,” they wrote. “The most significant improvement is diminished appearance of lip lines…Brow furrows appear far less defined-still there but not as deep. I really hadn’t expected a change in the marionette lines or jowl thing-but they too are noticeably diminished!”

“I have found the glabellar lines between my eyebrows have become way less noticeable,” another said. “I was considering botox to help with those so I am quite happy to have found a much less expensive and invasive option. I have also noticed a considerable amount of brightening of my skin in general.”

We’ve confirmed with experts just how crucial yet often forgotten the exfoliation step is to a mature skin care routine. The process helps remove dead skin to “reveal brighter and more rejuvenated skin,” and reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles, aesthetician Sean Lundy previously told HuffPost.

With the RoC pads, you can tackle the cleansing and exfoliation in one session. The smooth side is great for gentle cleaning, while the textured side offers physical exfoliation as you swipe. Additionally, the foam in the pads boasts ultra-hydrating ingredients like glycerin and butylene glycol to plump the skin, while the glycine soja (soybean) protein works as an antioxidant and skin-conditioner.

People are sharing that their pores look smaller, makeup sits nicer and lifelong bumpy, oily skin is finally starting to look smooth and matte. Several shoppers also note that their skin has an “undeniable new glow.” That, good people, is evidence of a product that multi-tasks hard.

The brand says they’re gentle enough to be used twice daily, as you prep your face for the day and as you wind down for sleep. You get 28 pads in a pack, though many cut them in half to double the amount. Reviewers say the pads rival luxury skincare in experience and effect, at an unbeatable price.

Reviewers love these handy pads for making smoothing skin care quick and easy. Read more 5-star reviews and grab a set for yourself for under $11.

“I bought these on a whim in December when I ran out of my normal cleanser not expecting much. After 3 months I can safely say I’m amazed. This is one of my favorite skincare products and I’ve used everywhere from high end, prescription and drugstore. I’m 37 and have the start of wrinkles on my forehead. I usually get botox twice a year, normally I would feel the need to get botox again by this point but these really do smooth my fine lines. I’m not exaggerating when I say they give you an instant facelift. After 3 months I have less discoloration and my face feels fresh. I 100% recommend these. I can’t believe how affordable they are!” — BBRebBe

“These are amazing. I was contemplating botox due to lines in my forehead. I decided to try these disks and my skin was brighter and softer after using the first time. It had the kind of glow like I had been to the spa. I have been using almost daily for about 1 week and the difference is visible to me. The lines in my forehead have not vanished (it isnt magic) but they have dramatically diminished. I will continue to use all over my face. I hate I did not take before and after pictures.” — Monica

“Love, love this product. I’ve been using RoC products for 12 years, since I first read they were best all around for fighting wrinkles without draining your wallet. These remove makeup so fast and leave my face feeling incredibly refreshed. I find I sleep better too when I use these. I cut them in half to make them go further.” — Lelsie Stuart

“I will add my voice to all the happy reviewers of this product. I have been very pleased with how it has worked on my skin. I don’t have many wrinkles to contend with but I have found the glabellar lines between my eyebrows have become way less noticeable. I was considering botox to help with those so I am quite happy to have found a much less expensive and invasive option. I have also noticed a considerable amount of brightening of my skin in general.

I would give a word of caution to those with sensitive skin to use these gradually instead of starting off using them every day. They are highly effective at resurfacing which means that you’ll experience some peeling and maybe even burning/tenderness at first. Even I with very tough skin (I use prescription-strength Retin-A every night without peeling) experienced a bit of peeling with this product but that’s really the point of using it (resurfacing) so I’m not bothered by it. I do cut the pads in half, it makes them a little harder to hold onto but there is plenty of product on a half pad to wash your whole face and neck.” — Morgan F. [This review has been condensed for lenght, read the whole thing here.]

The Real Deal: We use deal trackers and commerce experience to sift through “fake” hike-and-drop deals and other deceptive sales tactics. Products will usually be rated at least 4 stars with a minimum 15% discount. (And when there’s an exception, we’ll tell you why.)

As society continues to grapple with the public health issue of loneliness, researchers have recently found a “surprising” outcome after studying the way loneliness could affect memory in older adults. While loneliness may have a significant impact on memory, it might not affect how fast memory declines over time, according to a study published in the Aging and Mental Health journal last week.

In a longitudinal analysis, researchers evaluated a total of 10,217 participants aged 65 and older from the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement (SHARE) from 12 countries over six years. Researchers sought to investigate how loneliness impacted memory in older adults.

The participants self-reported whether they experienced high loneliness, average loneliness or low loneliness at the study’s outset; none of the participants initially had a history of cognitive decline. Researchers found that participants who reported high loneliness had a significantly lower initial performance when their memories were assessed, compared to those who reported average or low loneliness. Reporting high loneliness, however, did not speed up their rate of decline in memory scores over time.

Dr. Luis Carlos Venegas-Sanabria, the lead author of the study from Universidad del Rosario in Colombia, said that the outcome of the study was “surprising.”

“The finding that loneliness significantly impacted memory, but not the speed of decline in memory over time was a surprising outcome,” he said in a news release. “It suggests that loneliness may play a more prominent role in the initial state of memory than in its progressive decline.”

In one task to assess the participants’ memory performance, they were presented with a 10-word list that was read aloud and then immediately asked to recall as many words as possible within one minute. Then they were asked to recall words from a 10-word list after five minutes. During the five minutes, participants were given unrelated information to prevent them from rehearsing the word list.

The study found that while the high loneliness group initially showed poorer memory performance, their rate of decline over time was similar to that of the participants in the other groups.

“Interestingly, the baseline level of loneliness does not affect the rate of long-term cognitive decline,” the study states. “This suggests that loneliness may have a greater impact on the initial state of memory rather than on facilitating progressive decline.”

But researchers noted other key findings about the group that initially reported high loneliness. Those participants were more commonly older, female, and had worse self-rated health. They also had a higher prevalence of depression, high blood pressure and diabetes.

Furthermore, the study authors noted that other factors affected participants’ baseline memory performances more significantly than their level of loneliness did. These factors included age, depression, reported health status and engagement in physical or social activities.

The study had several limitations, the authors noted. For starters, it viewed loneliness as a stable variable that did not change over time. Also, participants self-reported their level of engagement in physical or social activity, which can introduce bias, among other limitations.

Previous research has found links between loneliness and increased risk of cognitive decline and dementia. The authors note that past findings between loneliness and its association with dementia risk have been “inconsistent.” “Future longitudinal research is needed to examine how changes in loneliness and social isolation relate to patterns of cognitive change and how other covariates may modify this relationship,” the study states.

Jordan Weiss, an associate professor at the New York University Grossman School of Medicine and a scientific writer at Assisted Living Magazine, cautioned that the results of the new study may be easy to “misread.”

Weiss, who was not involved in the study, told Fox News that it can be hard to detect how soon social connection patterns affect memory if you’re studying people who are already in their 60s.

“By the time you’re measuring someone in their late 60s, decades of social connection patterns are already baked in,” he said.

Chronic loneliness has been linked to several health issues, including dementia, heart disease, depression, anxiety, Type 2 diabetes and an increased risk of stroke.

Brian Mullan, a licensed professional counselor with Thriveworks in Philadelphia, previously emphasized to HuffPost that it’s important to remember that we are “social animals, literally from birth.”

“It’s an innate, hardwired need we humans have,” he said.

Mullan recommended that people looking to address feelings of loneliness “explore resources in the community that are either free, or very low cost or local to you.”

He recommended finding activities you’re already interested in.

“Maybe things that you have always wanted to explore, but felt constrained from, I think that’s one great place to start,” he said.

Ask anyone who wears one — a good bra can change your life. And if you’ve struggled to find something supportive and comfortable, breathable and lifting, you’ll be happy to know, we’ve found one for you — and they start at under $20.

From the brand LetsJoli, this wire and seamless bra is celebrated for its full coverage, wide straps, supportive sides with extra hooks that prevent “spilling” and inclusive size range, i.e., every color option is available in S-5XL. Yet, the crowning achievement of this “small miracle” is its lifting ability, keeping “very saggy boobs,” not just in place, but “perky” — you heard us right.

Whether aging, menopause, childbirth, hormonal changes or simply your natural body has your chest hanging a little low, reviewers say this is the dreamy bra is the one to have in your drawer.

If your girls have started “looking toward the floor,” reviewers say the fabric and cut will take them “from sagging to standing up.”

If you haven’t seen it on HuffPost shopping, the “jelly bra” is a popular style that uses thick but malleable material for superior support, without suffocation. While some jelly styles are literally gel-infused, this option from LetsJoli features jelly-like strips sewn into the nylon-and-spandex blend, offering 360 degrees of responsive support. Pair this yummy fabric with the shape: supportive sides, generous, adjustable straps, lots of eye-hooks, you’re looking at a one-and-done buy to keep the “girls” right where you want them.

“At this stage of life, and after losing a lot of weight, I need a bra to do more than just show up,” a shopper, who wear a L said. “I need it to smooth things over, be supportive, and simply contain, while avoiding turning my sides and back into a public event. Happily, this bra understood the assignment.”

Another reviewer in their 80s says their size S bra is approved for those with “sagging and crappy skin.” “This bra not only fits perfect but it holds the skin in place so I don’t have ‘overhang,’” they said.

Fans say the bra itself and the breast-lifting support are so comfortable, “I didn’t need to rush and take it off immediately when I got home.”

“I can’t believe this bra! It’s truly a miracle bra that had to be designed by women!!” A reviewer with self-described “very saggy boobs,” who wears an XL said. “It also causes my back to be more supported too…My ribs don’t want to subluxation nor do I have any chest wall pain! Iykyk.”

Another, who wears an XL, calls it “a wireless bra WITH SUPPORT for well-endowed ladies!” “I’m no longer sagging, with a painful back,” they said.

Others say the call lifting feature is “transformative,” saying it “really improves your physical appearance!”

“The fabric is incredibly soft, but it still holds everything firmly and comfortably in place all day,” a reviewer who wears an L wrote. “No bra-band digging, no side spillover, no top spillover, and no constant tugging and adjusting. Just smooth lines, solid support, and a much-appreciated confidence boost.”

Because it doesn’t ride up or roll down, people even report wearing it around the house for comfort and even catching some Zzz’s in it.

“I always take off my bra as soon as I walk in the house and I love this bra so much I even slept with it on last night,” a reviewer who wears an XXL said. “I absolutely hate wearing a bra and definitely never sleep in one but I absolutely love this one and it feels great and just enough support for me!!!”

If you’re feeling skeptical about ordering a bra without a waist and cup size, we get it. Yet, thousands, and we mean thousands of shoppers, with all different sizes swear by this option for support, comfort and looking good.

“This is a supportive bra that actually feels comfortable all day, which I’ve never experienced before,” TMC, who wears a 42DDD and ordered an XXL wrote. “I had to go off my own measurements and their size chart. My overbust is 51 inches and my underbust is 38 inches. I wasn’t confident, so I ordered two sizes to be safe — a 42D and a 2XL. This one is the 2XL, and it is hands down the winner.”

“I used to love a bra that was discontinued — it was the best I’d ever owned —until I bought this one,” a reviewer who wears a S said. ”…It flatters my figure beautifully, leaving no unsightly bulges or lines visible on my body. It’s wire-free, yet it makes my breasts look gorgeous and firm without needing any extra padding. I won’t have to struggle to find a good bra ever again.”

Another reviewer, who wears an XL calls the bra “no joke.” “I FEEL LIKE A SUPER WOMAN!! ✨️🦸♀️,” they wrote. “Thank you Jesus FINALLY a bra that supports me. I could sleep in this thing!! It makes you feel like you can do anything 🥹🤣👏🏻.”

Myriad reviews name it the best bra ever, and a welcome surprise after decades of ill-fitting and uncomfortable undergarments.

“It literally feels like I have nothing on, like a second skin, no exaggeration at all,” TMC said. “But at the same time, ‘my girls’ are fully supported.”

This full-coverage, seamless bra may be your new favorite purchase for a good lift and coverage. Read more 5-star reviews and grab one for under $20.

“Move over, Indiana Jones, because I have found the holy grail! I am an average-sized woman, 5′5″ and 135 pounds, but I am heavy-breasted (C cup) and I’m also a senior citizen who breast fed her baby many years ago. I have been searching for years for a bra that fits, is comfortable, and supports my poor saggy girls. This bra is IT! It is so soft I barely know I’m wearing it, but the girls feel quite protected and secure in it. I bought 2 of these bras to see if they fit. I love them so much that I just ordered 2 more. HIGHLY recommended for full-figured ladies of a certain age looking for support and comfort.” — Kathleen, Size L

“I am an 83 year old lady and due to a diatary change over the last few months I lost weight and have to buy new bras. I have ordered several different styles and this bra is wonderful. Unlike the young women in the videos I have sagging and crappy skin to deal with and this bra not only fits perfect but it holds the skin in place so I don’t have ‘overhang’ it remains to be seen how they hold up after many washings but I would recommend this bra to all older women. I am now 5’3 and 118 pounds. I purchased a size S.” — Carol from Michigan

“I have been wearing nothing but cotton sleep t-shirt/tank style bras since Covid. Fruit of the loom brand to be exact. I thought I would never find a ‘real’ bra that I could tolerate again. I have tried many over the years and just couldn’t find anything that didn’t irritate me in some way. I had for about the past year stopped trying new bras because every supposedly super comfortable bra I gave a try just failed miserably. Well, I decided to go out on a limb again recently and I tried one of these and after going half the day and suddenly realizing I hadn’t been bothered by boob/bra related discomfort one time and I was actually more comfortable than I normally am in my sleep bras because of the added support I ordered 6 more of these! If you have sensory issues or are sensitive to bras in general I’d recommend this to anyone – this is by far the most comfortable bra I have worn in my life!” — R2D2, Size 5XL.

“I love this bra. I was skeptical about ordering a wireless bra off the internet, but this is the bees knees. A friend recommended this to me, and I’m so glad she did. As a bigger girl, I’ve struggled to find a comfortable bra that doesn’t make me look saggy. The straps are wide, the sides are wide, and the material is soft. And the best part is, it actually lifts. I also like how you can adjust the strap all the way, unlike some bras. It doesn’t dig, cut, or ride up my back. I can’t even tell I’m wearing it. New favorite for sure!” — Ash, Size XXL

“I have Ehlers-Danlos syndrome and having anything around my ribs is torture! I also have very saggy boobs. I can’t believe this bra! It’s truly a miracle bra that had to be designed by women!! It also causes my back to be more supported too. My boobs stay in place and ‘perky’. I can even sleep with it and don’t worry about rolling over on my boobs!! The straps are very comfortable and stay in place. My ribs don’t want to subluxation nor do I have any chest wall pain! Iykyk. I can’t recommend this bra enough!!” — Charlee Bear, Size XL

“Best Bra Ever (Especially for Older Women). Unless it’s a brand and size I’ve purchased before, I don’t usually buy bras online for fear of getting something that doesn’t fit; however, I took the risk in buying this bra. After reading the positive reviews and also how it is designed for older women, I felt like it was worth the gamble in ordering. Believe me when I say, it definitely was worth it! Not only is this bra comfortable, but it is very supportive, especially for someone like myself with sagging breasts. My husband agreed that wearing the bra made me look much more supported than the ones I’d been wearing, which were comfortable to wear, but allowed me to look much too saggy. If you have any hesitation about ordering this bra, I encourage you to give it a try because you won’t be sorry. My breasts haven’t looked like this in a long time, and it’s all thanks to this bra. I’m an extremely happy customer!!!” — Cindy S. Shackelford, Size M

“I’ve been looking for a bra like this for years! Finally something designed for the senior lady. So soft and comfy, the cups give excellent support and shape. No more saggy titties!” —Gardencatbj, Size XXL

And if you’re in the market for more wardrobe upgrades, check out these 2026 HuffPost Shopping Award-winning style items currently on sale. Be sure to peep the exclusive codes for all the savings.

The Real Deal: We use deal trackers and commerce experience to sift through “fake” hike-and-drop deals and other deceptive sales tactics. Products will usually be rated at least 4 stars with a minimum 15% discount. (And when there’s an exception, we’ll tell you why.)

As the weather warms, you might be ready to swap your winter coats and boots for short sleeves and sandals. While every body is a “beach body,” if you’re dealing with unwanted crepey, saggy or scaly areas, you may be looking for products to make you feel a little more confident and comfortable when showing some skin. Enter: Alpha Skin Care’s Revitalizing Body Lotion.

Created with exfoliating glycolic alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), hydrating glycerin and skin softening lanolin, this fragrance-free, daily lotion is helping reviewers smooth and soothe their dry, crepey skin, making them excited to wear the warm-weather clothes they want. Even better? According to our price trackers (and the Alpha Skin website), it usually goes for $22, meaning it’s currently 15% off, the lowest price it’s been in weeks.

Reviewers call it “magic in a bottle,” a formula that brings “50-year-old skin back to looking and feeling like a 20-year-old” per on reviewer. (Spoiler alert: it’s the exfoliating glycolic AHA.)

While looking like you’re from a different decade may be pure hyperbole, the efficacy of the 12% glycolic AHA is not. It’s a chemical exfoliant that works by nixing dull, dead skin cells and promoting new cell growth. Not only does this process make space for new skin cells to thrive, but the brand says it also boosts collagen production — something Board-Certified Dermatologist Dr. Robyn Gmyrek backed up in previous reporting.

In addition to exfoliating and collagen boosting, the cream is filled with rich emollients to keep skin moisturized, supple and soft. Reviewers say the smoothing and softening effects are incredible, beating out other skincare they’ve tried.

“I’d been using a retinol-based lotion on my body for quite a while, but hadn’t really seen much in the way of results for smoothing and hydrating my skin,” a reviewer said (who credits the cream for making their skin look 30 years younger). ”…Age happens to us all and [my skin] wasn’t as firm and plump as it had been. This lotion has corrected both of those problems to a degree that is really shocking.”

“I could tell an immediate difference after the first time I put it on,” another wrote. ”…It took away that crepey, alligator skin I had on my hands and legs. My skin is SO SOFT, and my legs have such a nice glow after I put on this lotion.”

“I bought the product because at age 62, I have crepey and sagging skin on my upper arms,” reviewer KatM said, calling the lotion the “best so far for crepey saggy skin!!!” “I have used this for just TWO days and my arms are summer ready…I can wear sleeveless tops now!”

One user said they were dreading the heat, until they found this lotion, deeming it “crepey skin gone.”

A reviewer in their 70s, who “thought that my days of wearing skirts, shorts and sleeveless tops were over,” says the cream is opening up their wardrobe options, too. “I have worn short skirts this summer with confidence,” they wrote. ”…I have worn sleeveless shirts this summer for the first time in several years.”

A return customer calls it “pure gold” for tacking crepey skin on their arms and legs. “The moisturizer keeps the skin plump, and the glycolic acid will penetrate the skin and produce more collagen,” they said. “My once dry legs feel soft and smooth now. This was a repurchase for me after using up the first bottle. And I plan to continue buying it.”

This on-sale glycolic alpha-hydroxy acid lotion is a summer must-have for reviewers with crepey skin. Read more 5-star reviews and grab some for yourself before the price goes back up.

“I bought the product because at age 62 – I have crepey and sagging skin on my upper arms. I have used this for just TWO days and my arms are summer ready. I wish I’d take a ‘before’ pic of my upper arms and after just one day of using this lotion. I can wear sleeveless tops now! I get so warm in the building that I work in. I had to find something anything to reduce/eliminate the ugly aged look of my arms. I was almost going to consider a TV informercial type; has a regime of many different products that purport to work together – at a very high price! If I were to list the different products that I’ve tried (and failed) to eliminate my crepey saggy skin – it would number in double digits. I have no idea the ‘why’ of how it works for me – it just does – at a very decent price! Thank you!” — KatM

″…I am an active 71 year old woman from Kansas and after years of sun exposure and dry winters, I thought that my days of wearing skirts, shorts and sleeveless tops were over…For me, this lotion (actually more like a cream) brought about amazing results. Within a few days after using it, my legs had improved at least 70% and after using it for 3 months, the spots have also markedly diminished. I have worn short skirts this summer with confidence. The cream, has also eliminated the bumps on the back of my arms and improved the crepey texture under my arms too. I have worn sleeveless shirts this summer for the first time in several years. This is the first summer in a long time that I haven’t gone around greasy from petroleum jelly-which really didn’t work anyway. I now use this on my whole body after showering including my face and hands and it has helped diminish brown spots everywhere…” — Linda Schmitt [This review has been shortened for length, read the whole thing here.]

“Omg..is all I can say.. im 56 and have been struggling with horrible crepey arms,..the crepey stuff under the arms near the tricep area. I tried every, I kid you not,..I am soooo happy I found this,..its cheap too …I rarely leave reviews, but because as a woman, I know hoe much our arms can really bother us, I wanted other women to know there is hope,. I have been using it for 2 weeks now, at night after I shower 3 times a week,..but from the first time I used it I saw immediate results,..I wish I had taken pictures ..my arms where bad, like it happened over night, I was so mad and was not happy about the warmer weather coming...and I work out..anyway,…get It!!!…its worth it all day long…I understand certain things work differently for certain people but I think it’s definitely worth the try,..I was definitely a sun worshiper in my younger days…im half Italian/dominican so I do and did tan well, but boy I paid the price….I hope this helps some of you girls looking for some help,..I also use Eucerin Advanced repair cream as just a regular” — Lisa v mello

The Real Deal: We use deal trackers and commerce experience to sift through “fake” hike-and-drop deals and other deceptive sales tactics. Products will usually be rated at least 4 stars with a minimum 15% discount. (And when there’s an exception, we’ll tell you why.)

We seem to have reached peak “get off my lawn” culture, with men having temper tantrums all over the damn place. Whether they’re typing shrill all-caps messages, foaming at the mouth with road rage or aggressively punching holes in your drywall, men seem to be angrier than ever. And with a “boys will be boys” cultural mindset that provides a free pass on bad behavior to men well into their final decades, it’s hard to know when, or if, these antics will ever end.

Would it make you feel any better to know that there’s not only a possible medical reason, but even an accepted syndrome designation, for this way many men have of interacting with the world?

Maybe not, but the term “irritable male syndrome” does exist, and in the two decades since it was coined, it’s become accepted in medical and psychological circles. While not a clinical diagnosis, experts say it’s an accurate description of a cluster of symptoms that often appears in aging men.

“Along with the term ‘andropause,’ which refers to male menopause, it’s a useful shorthand for describing what happens to men through gradual testosterone decline and hormonal changes,” said Dr Justin Houman, assistant professor of urology at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center.

According to Houman, the most common symptoms are:

• Mood changes, including irritability, lower motivation and feelings of depression
• Cognitive changes, like difficulty concentrating or memory lapses
• Low energy and fatigue that isn’t explained by poor sleep alone
• Reduced libido and fewer spontaneous erections
• Loss of muscle mass and strength despite regular exercise
• Increased body fat, particularly around the midsection
• Sleep disturbances, including insomnia or poor-quality rest

These symptoms don’t happen overnight, he said. “Male hormonal decline is gradual, with testosterone levels peaking in the late teens to early 20s, remaining relatively stable through the 30s, and starting to decline by about 1% per year after age 40. Most men start noticing symptoms like those listed above between 40 and 60, though lifestyle, chronic illness and genetics can accelerate or delay onset.”

The term “irritable male syndrome” (IMS) was coined in 2001 by Dr. Gerald Lincoln, a Scottish scientist known for his work in endocrinology and reproductive biology. He was researching testosterone levels in sheep when he observed a correlation between declining testosterone levels and increased irritability and aggression in rams after the mating season. He observed similar behaviors in other males when their testosterone levels dropped, eventually identifying the syndrome in red deer, reindeer and even Indian elephants.

As years passed, the term was picked up by psychologists and men’s health experts to describe similar emotional and behavioral patterns they were observing in human men, particularly in relation to age-related testosterone decline or stress-induced hormonal shifts.

Psychotherapist and author Dr. Jed Diamond has written the books “Irritable Male Syndrome” and “Mister Mean: Saving Your Relationship From The Irritable Male Syndrome.” He described IMS this way: “It’s a state of hypersensitivity, anxiety, frustration and anger that occurs in males that’s associated with biochemical changes, hormonal fluctuations, stress and loss of male identity. While it does usually occur in men later in life, I’ve seen men in their 20s or 30s, who have poor diets, high stress and other factors, can also experience IMS.”

We react differently to this syndrome because it’s more likely to “sneak up” on those who have it and those who love them, said coaching psychologist James Davis. “The hormonal changes of women’s menopause happen in a relatively narrow window of time, but with age-related testosterone decline, it can be more of a ‘slow drip’ rather than a sudden moment. This means symptoms can often be passed off as being caused by aging, stress or a combination of both.”

While hormonal changes might jump-start IMS, other factors can play a role, Davis said. “Those hormonal changes make men more anxious, which in turn can lead to irritability. There can be a crisis of self-identity that comes from declining physical performance, loss of muscle and lowered libido. When you overlay the stresses of managing a career, finances and relationships, plus the state of the world in general, you can see that many factors could make a man more irritable. Then add in broken sleep, a lack of experience or framework for expressing vulnerability or issues and increasing social isolation, and you can see how multiple factors can pile up to impact an individual.”

Israel Cassol is a podcaster who began trying to raise awareness of “male menopause” after he was diagnosed with the condition shortly after turning 40. He told the New York Post, “I was hesitant to share such intimate details of my life, but I needed to know if this was an issue others were facing. I couldn’t believe the response I received from men describing similar symptoms I had suffered from.”

These days, he still promotes issues of men’s health, offering this advice to HuffPost: “Men shouldn’t see this as a weakness or something shameful. It’s a natural part of life for many, and talking about it helps break the stigma around men’s emotional health. The sooner we recognize what’s going on, the sooner we can take steps to improve things, and that makes a huge difference not just for men, but for their families and relationships, too.”

Diamond said that the first step should be a doctor’s appointment: “I’d say that any man over 45 who is experiencing these symptoms consistently should see their doctor for a blood test to check testosterone levels.”

What happens if those levels are low?

“There are effective lifestyle adjustments men can make to boost levels naturally, and there is also the option of testosterone replacement therapy, which is something that requires careful consideration,” Davis said.

What to do if a loved one seems like a likely candidate for IMS? Besides that medical evaluation, Diamond mentioned, Houman suggested encouraging healthy lifestyle changes like more balanced nutrition, regular exercise, good sleep hygiene and reduced stress. “Keep communication open and non-judgmental, and seek counseling if a relationship strain develops,” he said.

It’s important to demonstrate compassion for this issue, Davis explained. “You need to realize that this isn’t a personality change per se, but is likely a result of hormonal changes that affect behavior, emotion, cognition and even how that person shows up in the world,” he added.

He also said that this is an issue that needs more attention. “We need to bring andropause out into the open so that both men and women can appreciate what’s going on with male hormones and psychology at this time of life. Midlife men are the highest suicide cohort, with a rate almost five times that of women of all ages, so the issue is significant and we shouldn’t marginalize it by questioning its existence or attempting to downplay it,” Davis added.

Finally, Cassoll offered this encouragement: “Patience and understanding are very important, because men going through this phase don’t always realize what’s happening to them. It helps if loved ones encourage healthier habits and also create space for honest conversations without judgment. Suggesting a medical check-up can be really helpful, because it reassures the man that he’s not ‘going crazy,’ and that there are ways to feel better.”

The original version of this story was published on HuffPost at an earlier date.