Valerie Butler

New York

Fashion Market Editor at Essence

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essence.com

Articles

5 Must-Have Lip Balms For Ultra-Soft Lips Year-Round - Essence

1 week ago | essence.com | Valerie Butler

When it comes to maintaining a soft, hydrated pout, finding the right lip balm can be a challenge. From treating naturally dry lips to combating harsh weather, a lip balm that nourishes throughout a long day should be the least of your worries. That said, I tested the market for the most moisturizing lip balms so you don’t have to. Since I started using Naturium’s Phyto Glow Lip Balm I take it everywhere.
These CBD Essentials Elevated My Recovery Routine | Essence

2 weeks ago | essence.com | Valerie Butler

What if the secret to your post-pilates zen or tension headache relief didn’t include a bottle of pain relievers? In our fast-paced culture, seeking natural solutions for stress, discomfort, and overall wellness has become essential. CBD, or cannabidiol, is the non-psychoactive golden child of the cannabis plant. Unlike its counterpart, THC, CBD offers no high and no paranoia. It interacts with the body to help soothe sore muscles, regulate stress, sleep, and mood.
Product Of The Week: Shani Darden Rescue Serum With 10% Azelaic Complex | Essence

Feb 4, 2025 | essence.com | Valerie Butler

In an industry where there is an overwhelming amount of product launches daily, Product Of The Week helps you cut through the noise. To help you find your new beauty and wellness favorites, this series highlights the tried-and-true products that our writers can’t live without. With a reputation as one of the most sought-after estheticians in the world, Shani Darden continues to disrupt the beauty industry with her intimate and targeted approach to skincare.
Get Ready with Caleb McLaughlin For The Dior Men’s Show - Essence

Jan 27, 2025 | essence.com | Valerie Butler

Courtesy of Jonathan Jacobs for Christian Dior Parfums The Dior Men’s Fall 2025 show in Paris was a masterclass in subtle luxury, blending femininity with the elevated everyday. Kim Jones’s designs spoke volumes in their quiet sophistication, captivating the audience both on the runway and among the impeccably dressed attendees.
How To Keep Your Feet Silky Smooth This Winter - Essence

Nov 21, 2024 | essence.com | Valerie Butler

PeopleImages / Getty Images Few things are as uncomfortable as your feet scratching against the sheets when you snuggle into bed. It’s even worse when you’re in bed with someone else, worrying that your partner might rub their feet against your hooves.
Three Luxury Hand Creams That Go The Distance | Essence

Nov 6, 2024 | essence.com | Valerie Butler

Because our hands serve as our guides through the world—opening doors, shaking hands and holding onto train poles, they must be washed often and subsequently moisturized well. With this in mind, it’s not enough to rely on your post-shower body lotions, as hands require moisturizing hand creams to combat the elements.
An AI Massage Transformed My Fashion Week Recovery Routine - Essence

Sep 26, 2024 | essence.com | Valerie Butler

Walking through the Equinox entrance I wasn’t nervous, per say, but the thought of receiving an AI driven massage did give me pause. Initially when I was invited to try Aescape it felt like a no-brainer. Of course I wanted to try the first commercially available fully automated, customizable massage experience—and on the heels of my busy New York Fashion week. Sign me up! But as I was handed the bodycon two piece set to wear during the machine-operated massage anticipation crept in.
Product Of The Week: Shea Moisture Amla Oil Bond Repair Masque | Essence

Aug 6, 2024 | essence.com | Valerie Butler

Until recently, I thought Dominican salons putting relaxers in their shampoo and conditioner was only a myth. I’d overheard this being told amongst my mom’s friends and when I came of age to make my own hair decisions my aunties and the women I looked to for beauty inspiration cautioned me against taking my 4C hair to anyone whose hair didn’t look like mine. As I’ve gotten older and put more and more distance between myself and this wise tale the risk and implications seemingly lessened.
Why You Should Be Using Massage Candles

Apr 19, 2024 | essence.com | Valerie Butler

simonkr / Getty Images One of the newest innovations in the candle market is the massage candle. Massage candles are versatile in that they can be used like normal candles as well as for massages and moisturization. Although I wouldn’t skip my regular moisturizing routine, massage candles add a luxurious touch to my body care.
Product of the Week: Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Freeze Gel

Feb 27, 2024 | essence.com | Valerie Butler

Composite by ESSENCE Staff. If you’re like me and can’t leave the house without your brows on, run, do not walk, to get Anastasia Beverly Hills’ new Brow Freeze gel. Whether you need your brows to go from day to night or just want to set your brows without feeling stiff or tacky, this Gel has you covered.