Parade

Gypsy-Rose Blanchard is the latest public figure to come clean about cosmetic procedures. 

The victim of Munchausen syndrome by proxy posted a video on Instagram on Wednesday, July 29, sharing her unique summer plans. 

“I wanted to let ya’ll know that part of my summer glow-up is actually a big thing coming up,” she said. “I am kind of nervous about it. I am actually going to be getting what is called GlowTox. And what it is is a professional-grade chemical peel and [Botox].”

Blanchard revealed she wants to get lip filler as well, even though she knows some might not approve of the decision. 

“I know it’s controversial,” she said. “ ... I don’t want anything crazy, so I’m not gonna go insane with the filler, but just a little fuller. Just very natural, very subtle.”

The 35-year-old also spoke about having hyperpigmentation, acne, and “some fine lines and wrinkles coming through” that she wants to make less visible. 

“I really typically don’t go in the sun a lot unless I go to like the beach or a vacation or something like that, so hopefully the skin peel will help with all that and clear that all up,” Blanchard said in the video.

Blanchard isn’t a stranger to cosmetic surgery. In 2024, she spoke to People about getting ready to have a rhinoplasty. 

“I’m going through a personal transformation journey currently and that includes a physical one, too,” she told the outlet in a statement. “Wish me luck with my surgery and watch the whole thing this summer on Gypsy Rose: Life After Lock Up.”

Blanchard’s close friend NadiyaVizier revealed how she was feeling before the surgery. 

"She said she's a bit nervous, but she's happy it's going to be done," Vizier said. "The main thing is that she wanted a more feminine looking nose. She just wants to fix it up and give it a more feminine look."

In the mid-'70s, British rock band The Damned made history when it released a track that helped to pioneer a new sub-genre of music.

Rat Scabies is the band's drummer, forming the band alongside lead singer Dave Vanian, late guitarist Brian James, and bassist-turned-guitarist Captain Sensible, in 1976. Born on July 30, 1955, in Kingston upon Thames, England, Christopher John Millar earned the nickname and stage name Rat Scabies after he turned up to the band audition with the skin condition and, while he was auditioning, a rat ran across the floor.

Drumming from an early age, Rat got his first drum kit at 8 years old after "nagging" his parents for a set — and the rest is history. According to his website, once he’d picked up the drumsticks for the first time, he "never wanted to do anything else."

On Oct. 22, 1976, The Damned released its first single, "New Rose," making history as the first official punk single ever released by a British band.

"When I first got together with Rat, we were still in the stages of getting The Damned together – finding a bassist and singer and all that stuff," guitarist James explained to Classic Rock in 2015, remembering the moment the band tried out the song for the first time. "So I played him the ['New Rose'] riff and he just took to it like water. Bang! He was off. He just attacked it. It was perfect. Now I had something I could build a song around."

"New Rose," which was "recorded for about fifty quid," was part of the band's legendary debut album, Damned Damned Damned, released on Feb. 18, 1977, via Stiff Records. The album peaked at No. 34 on the U.K. Official Album Chart.

In the mid-'90s, Rat would leave the band temporarily, officially rejoining the original lineup in 2023 following a string of reunion shows in the U.K. a year prior. The band's 13th studio album, Not Like Everybody Else, was released on Jan. 23, 2026, and honors the late James.

Related: '90s Rock Singer and Founding Member of Iconic Rock Band Turns 50

Brad Hargreaves is the drummer from Third Eye Blind, a legendary rock band that released their first album in 1997. The band is known for their radio hits “Semi-Charmed Life,” “Jumper,” and “Never Let You Go.” They won a Billboard Music Award for Best Modern Rock Track in 1997 and were nominated for several American Music Awards and California Music Awards. Today, Hargreaves turns 55.

In addition to drumming, Hargreaves also enjoys spending time as a DJ. “I have always liked vinyl since I was a kid listening to my Dad’s records,” he told Highlight Magazine. “I have always loved beat making since I first heard Public Enemy and Dr Dre. I love getting a physical reaction from people by presenting them with music. The first mash-up I ever heard was of 'Back in Black' and 'Get Ur Freak On' and it really showed the creativity you can have mixing music. Mostly, I want people to hear the music I think is good. All of that supports my DJ hobby."

In an interview with Diffuser, Hargreaves spoke about whether the band’s old material being so beloved by fans makes it difficult to create new music. “You know, I don’t think about any of the old material. I mean, I think about the old material in terms of I want to make sure that we’re evolving musically and sonically, and I don’t want to tread over what we’ve done. You can get a little comfortable in terms of the sounds you use and where you go with songs.”

Related: ‘80s Rock Icon’s Youngest Son, 22, Is Releasing Rock Music Just Like His Father

When it comes to performing a blend of new and old songs at concerts, he added, “Sometimes we play too many old songs, and sometimes we play too many new songs. The set list is secondary to the whole idea of the way we play concerts in that each song, regardless of what record it’s on, serves a purpose at that moment, whether it’s building the energy, releasing the energy or kind of plateauing the energy. The way we structure our set list is to control the emotion of the room, so over the course of the concert, you’ve experienced a real ebb and flow emotionally, and hopefully it builds up to a pretty good crescendo at the end.”

Third Eye Blind is currently working on their eighth studio album. Their last album, Our Bande Apart, was released in 2021.  

In 2019,The Hollywood Reporter published an article that indicated that Jared Leto was unhappy with Todd Phillips' Joker film and tried to get it shut down.

Leto, who played the Batmanvillain in Suicide Squad, apparently took umbrage with the version starring Joaquin Phoenix. He believed the Joker film, which won Phoenix his first Academy Award, stood in the way of him getting his own spin-off.

"He not only complained bitterly to his agents at CAA, who also represent Phillips," the piece reported, "but asked his music manager, Irving Azoff, to call the leader of Warners parent company."

A source in Leto’s camp denied to The Hollywood Reporter that the actor made this request, and Azoff declined to comment. Azoff and Leto did part ways not long after the rumors circulated. The Morbius actor also departed from his management at the Creative Artists Agency not long after.

Sources also told the outlet that the Dallas Buyers Club star felt his agents should have told him about the Phillips project earlier and fought harder to keep in the role. He also, apparently, felt that he wasn't being treated like the Academy Award winner he is.

A separate spin-off movie centered on Leto’s Joker was announced in June 2018, but never had a writer or director attached. This was a year after Phillips' project was announced and around the same time as Birds of Prey, which focused on Margot Robbie's Harley Quinn.

The Hollywood Reporter believed that Leto’s on-set behavior and unusual gifts caused friction between the actor and the studio. He reportedly set a live rat to Margot Robbie when making Suicide Squad.

When promoting the film, Leto also complained about how much he had been cut from the final version of David Ayer's film. “In his defense, it was never really his movie, but his attempt to ‘invent’ a place for himself in it backfired,” a source involved in the situation told The Hollywood Reporter at the time.

Joker made over a billion dollars at the box office, earned 11 Oscar nominations and won 2 for its lead actor and score.

Related: Margot Robbie Thought Jared Leto Might ‘Beat Her Up’ When Making 'Suicide Squad'

Welcome back to the 1 Billion Views Club, Queen!

It's official, Queen's beloved 1979 single, "Don't Stop Me Now," has just surpassed the 1 billion views marker on YouTube, marking the second time the British pop band has scored a billion views for their contributions to the music industry.

Previously, the band had managed to snag a billion views for their similarly influential 1975 single, "Bohemian Rhapsody," in July 2019. Since then, Queen's YouTube video for the song managed to secure over 2 billion views on YouTube by December 2025.

Recorded in 1978 and later released as a single on January 26, 1979, "Don't Stop Me Now" was also featured on Queen's influential 1978 album, Jazz.

Written by Queen front man Freddie Mercury, the song has often been described as one of the band's greatest musical achievements, with "Don't Stop Me Now" appearing in countless movies, TV shows and commercials since its release.

Looking at its larger success in the music industry, Rolling Stone later included the song in a readers' poll of the best Queen songs, ranking it number three on their list.

"Queen were on a pretty amazing run by the time their 1978 album Jazz came around," the outlet said of the song. "They'd gone from tiny clubs to stadiums during the past four runs, and every single song they released seemed to fly up the charts."

"'Don't Stop Me Now,' the lead single from the LP featuring the group's trademark multi-tracked harmonies, didn't quite live up to expectations, peaking at Number 86 in America," Rolling Stone continued. It was, however, a Top 10 hit in England. Time has also been very kind to it and it's widely seen now as one of the group's best works."

In the song's comments section on YouTube, multiple users chimed in with celebratory remarks about the video scoring a billion views.

"1 billion views. We finally did it, guys," one user wrote.

"We did it, 1 billion views. Godspeed, Mr. Fahrenheit!" added another account.

H&M Home has added a new minimalist linen-blend cushion cover featuring a romantic French phrase to its textile line for the summer season.

Priced at $19.99, the off-white square cover features black embroidered script spelling the words "L'amour" and "toujours", French for "love" and "always", arranged in a geometric square pattern across the front canvas.

From a distance, the design looks like a modern linear border. Up close, the cursive handwriting forms four outer edges surrounding an open square center. The piece includes a wide exterior border finished with black accent stitching along the rim and a concealed zipper closure across the back. The muted colors and pared back design make it suitable for almost any room and any palette.

The new pillow cover debuted as part of the retailer's Parisian Apartment line. According to company product specs, the fabric composition consists of 55% linen and 45% cotton. The cover measures standard accent size and fits square pillow inserts. It is sold exclusively as a cover, with inner cushion inserts sold separately through the retailer or third-party vendors.

The release reflects a broader retail trend of budget fast-fashion brands expanding into home textiles made with natural fabric blends. Swedish retail giant H&M launched its H&M Home division in 2009, initially selling through online channels before opening standalone home stores and dedicated shop-in-shop sections within existing retail locations.

(Source: H&M)

In recent years, home decor products across major apparel retailers have leaned into minimalist graphic prints and typographic embroidery, often featuring romantic or inspirational sayings. Competitors in the fast-decor market, including Zara Home and Target's Threshold line, also cycle through similar European-inspired phrasing and natural linen blend materials at price points ranging from $15 to $35.

Linen-blend textiles generally command higher price points than standard polyester or pure cotton canvas due to the higher manufacturing cost of flax fibers. By blending linen with cotton, retailers maintain the textured, woven appearance of linen while keeping production costs lower for customers of mass market retail home decor.

The "L'amour toujours" cushion cover is currently available on H&M's official website and in selected brick-and-mortar locations nationwide while supplies last.

Tom Holland is petrified of appearing on Saturday Night Live.

No, he’s not afraid of Lorne Michaels or the inevitable pranks. In a recent episode of the Good Hang podcast with Amy Poehler, Holland revealed that he’s “petrified” of having to read lines from cue cards on SNL due to his dyslexia.

“I’m heavily dyslexic, which is one of the reasons why—and I’d love to talk to you today about it, actually—is why I’ve never done SNL,” Holland said at the time. “I’m just so petrified at the concept of, like, trying to read something and they change.”

Holland continued, “It’s just that, for me, I can read fine. But when I have to read out loud, it just becomes a kind of… it’s like a mental block, and I can freeze.”

But just when the actor was ready to face his fears, Holland revealed in an interview on Late Night with Seth Meyers that SNL wasn’t ready for him.

“At the beginning of the [Spider-Man] press tour, I said to the Sony marketing team — who have done such an amazing job on this tour, I really am so grateful to them — I said, ‘I’m ready to host SNL,’” Holland said to Meyers. “And then, they were like, ‘They’re dark during the summer.’ So, thank God!”

During the show, Meyers introduced Holland to the person who handles the cue cards for both his show and SNL.

“He’d take good care of you,” Meyers said. “If the time comes, he’s the cue card guy. Whatever you need.”

Even though Holland told Poheler he was scared at the prospect of hosting, he loves SNL.

“I love the idea of having fun and making a fool of yourself in such a fun, creative way,” he said. “It’s just that thing of the cue cards.”

Watch Holland’s interview on Late Night with Seth Meyers, here.

Parade aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.

This summer, everyone is leaning into Italian coastal, Sardinian-inspired energy — think al fresco dinners on terracotta planter-adorned patios, ceramic bowls of lemons scattered down the picnic table, and chilled spritzes served in stunning glassware. The vibe is less about matching sets and more about layered textures, sun-washed colors, and small, whimsical details like the humble sardine.

If you’re looking to bring that "sardinecore" aesthetic to your home this season, the Beautiful by Drew Barrymore 3-Compartment Bamboo Melamine Sardine Serve Tray is a fabulous choice. At just $7, it is an easy add for serving olives, fruit, bread, or small bites, instantly upgrading the simplest of spreads. Whether you're hosting friends, setting out apps for a backyard dinner, or just upgrading a weeknight wine-and-cheese moment, it'll add plenty of charm.

Beautiful by Drew Barrymore 3-Compartment Bamboo Melamine Sardine Serve Tray, $7 at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

This serving tray turns an entertaining staple into something a little more fun and unexpected. Made from durable bamboo melamine, it's shaped to look like three fishes swimming side-by-side, making it a natural fit for coastal-inspired tablescapes and summer hosting. The elongated design is divided into three compartments, keeping everything neatly organized whether you're serving chips and salsa, olives, nuts, fruit, candies, or charcuterie. A glossy, ceramic-like finish gives it a more elevated look, while the molded scale and face detailing inside the fish silhouette add texture and personality.

Lightweight and easy to carry, it moves seamlessly from kitchen to patio, making it just as useful for indoor entertaining as it is for outdoor gatherings. The BPA-free bamboo melamine construction is designed for durability, so it can handle everyday use without worry, as it is resistant to cracking or shattering if accidentally dropped. Dishwasher-safe construction also makes cleanup simple once guests head home, which is a plus for frequent hosts. 

Shoppers gushed over this “adorable” and “charming” find, calling it a “cute serving tray for summer.” One shopper said that “the three compartments are perfect for dips or snacks, and the sleek design adds a beautiful touch to any table setting.”

Many also praised the “high-quality” design, with another shopper sharing that “the bamboo melamine material feels sturdy and durable while still being lightweight.”

Related: Drew Barrymore's 'Pretty' Fluted Storage Cabinet Is an 'Excellent Way to Maximize Space'

The Beautiful by Drew Barrymore 3-Compartment Bamboo Melamine Sardine Serve Tray is the catch of the summer table — and it’s just $7. Hook this hosting essential at Walmart before it swims away!

Don’t miss future deals! Sign up for Parade Picks to receive our commerce team’s curated selection of discounts and sales, twice a week.

Gap just officially revived one of its most iconic product lines after over three decades, and the launch is taking it back to the '90s — with a twist. Debuting the launch of Gap Beauty, the brand announced a reimagined fragrance collection, and it's already getting shoppers' attention.

The debut, "a new perspective on its most iconic scents," includes five fragrances that are a nostalgic callback to simpler times for Millennials: Dream, Heaven, Grass, Om, and Harmony. Thirty-two years later, "Gap is reenvisioning that legacy for a new generation, with the beloved fragrances elevated as eau de parfums and transformed for consumers who layer, curate and express their individuality through scent," the brand announced in a press release shared directly with Parade.

As for the scent notes, find descriptions, directly from the brand, below:

• Dream - Returning closest to its original form, it's a warm, woody scent with fresh notes of Italian bergamot, jasmine and cedarwood.

• Heaven - Softer and more sensual than the OG, this one's built around a proprietary amber molecule and brightened with crisp pear, Madagascar vanilla and patchouli.

• Grass - The new addition, it is the most playful of the five, bright and uplifting with notes of apricot nectar, gardenia and amber.

• Om - Undoubedtly an instantly recognizable cult favorite, it offers a deeper, grounded alternative, with rich notes of ginger, sandalwood and cedar.

• Grass - Light and restorative, with a clean freshness drawn from green mandarin, matcha and Virginia cedar.

Related: Gap’s New Totally Unconventional Collaboration Is Turning Heads: ‘Need Every Color’

Originally launched in 1994, Gap Fragrances became a defining scent of the era: clean, simple, effortless... yet elevated. They gained a cult following of users never relenting for their grand comeback, and now that moment has arrived. As stated by one relieved social media user, "Ohthankgod I can stop buying expired Om off eBay 😂😂."

“Gap has always created products that become part of how people express who they are, and fragrance is a natural extension of that,” said Mark Breitbard, CEO and President of Gap, in the release. “We’ve modernized Gap’s signature fragrances for the person who grew up with Gap and for those discovering it for the first time. It’s a deeply personal category and a powerful way for us to connect generations as we continue to evolve the brand.”

Gap Fragrance will be available in all Gap stores nationwide and online starting on July 30, available in three formats: a five-piece .05 oz Discovery Kit ($20), 10ml size ($20), and 50ml glass bottles ($52).

Related: These 4 Trending Fragrance Notes Are Taking Over Perfume Right Now

Fans Express Excitement: 'Best News Ever!'

Across social media, the fan hype is palpable, as people (accurately) determined what was coming before the official release was even fully announced. In the comments section of a teaser post uploaded to Instagram on July 27, a wave of excitement began to roll in for the products' long awaited return.

One commenter called it the "Best news ever! Dream and Heaven were my go-tos when I was a teen!!" while another said, "THIS CAN’T BE HAPPENING! (Grass! Dream! OM!) SCREEEEEEAMING! 😱😱😱."

The Millennials showed up full force. "This 90’s Gap Girl is absolutely SEATED. 🪑," one declared, with three more fans remembering times past with, "I wore Dream so much my college boyfriend thought that’s just how I naturally smelled 😍," "I still have my glass bottle of Grass from 30 years ago — I saved a tiny bit so I could always remember the smell of my teenhood. 🥹," and "As someone who worked at Gap during this era, my vote is Om but also Heaven."

"I’m gonna need OM to make a return. It was my signature scent for YEARRRRRRSSS," someone else added, as an additional person joked, "The way I can smell this Reel 😂."

Related: 11 Vintage Fragrances That Deserve a Comeback

View this post on Instagram

Needless to say, the reveal with the actual fragrance bottles sent longtime Gap lovers over the edge.

"I remember smelling gap perfume in the store when I was little shopping with my mom! So nostalgic," one recalled, as another said, "Dream was my absolute favorite 😍 It also is my husband's favorite 😉 I still have the tiniest bit left in an orginal bottle! Aaaaand it drops on my wedding anniversary!! @gap I need this so bad!"

A third person exclaimed, "I can’t wait!!!! Om is magical! I still have a vintage bottle that I paid WAY too much for on eBay," and another simply scream-wrote, "I AM SO EXCITED."

More Instagram users dropped notes like, "I want dream so bad, seems the new reimagined one is more unisex, I cannot wait!!! As a child, the dream candle was EVERYTHING!!!!" "THIS MEANS SO MUCH TO ME," "Give me a Time Machine!" and "🤩 need."

If the first reactions are anything to go by, the Gap Fragrance collection won't stay stocked for long.

Next, 9 Most-Requested Discontinued Fragrances, According to a Perfume Expert

When I think of saxophone legendKenny G, the first thing that comes to my mind is waking up in the middle of the night on my best friend's couch to those CD collection commercials. While many in my millennial generation didn't think much of him beyond that, the truth is the man has had a rather impressive career. In an interview on Benny Blanco's podcast Friends Keep Secrets, Kenny G opened up a lot about his work, performing methods, and his smartest moves. Among them? Being an early investor in Starbucks.

When Blanco asked if it was true that he was actually one of the first, Kenny G confirmed it and noted he was actually one of the first 10.

View this post on Instagram

"There was one store in the Pike Place Market in Seattle—one Starbucks store—and they just sold coffee beans," he explained. "My uncle says, 'Hey, they're trying to raise money for Starbucks Coffee.' I don't know anything about coffee. He goes, 'Yeah, well, I'm gonna put some money in, and why don't you meet the guy that's raising the money?' His name was Howard Schultz, the guy that started it."

"So I met Howard, and Howard kind of gave me the whole rundown of what he was planning to do," he continued. "He's a very charismatic guy, and we became good friends. And then I said, 'Who else is investing?' And I looked at the names and go, 'Oh my gosh, okay.' I said, 'Whatever they're doing, I'm gonna do.' That's how it started."

Long before Starbucks became a household name, Kenny G and his uncle, Harold Gorelick, helped Schultz raise $3.8 million in 1987 to buy the brand and initiate nationwide growth, according to Complex. After going public in 1992, the company's shares soared, eventually generating gains exceeding 26,500 percent relative to its original IPO price. While Kenny G has never publicly stated how much his investment earned him, we can assume it was a lot.

Related: Starbucks Launches First-of-Its-Kind Drink Lineup for Summer

Kenny G's Under-the-Radar Success

In all honesty, mocking Kenny G was about as popular as he has been. Despite a long career that earned him nearly countless accolades, his style of smooth jazz was often heavily criticized—so much so that there was an entire HBO documentary centered around it in 2021, Listening to Kenny G.

"I don't mind that they say what they say," he told NPR'sDavid Folkenflik. "They must think that my music somehow is going to damage the reputation of traditional jazz, which — it shouldn't have any effect on anything," he said. "They have every right to be protective if that's what they want to do. I've got other things to do, which is create and practice."

With his global sales totaling more than 75 million records and 1.5 billion streams, alongside an impressive 24 award nominations throughout his 50-year career, it's pretty easy to see why he loses no sleep over the hate.

🎬 SIGN UP for Parade’s Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox 🎬

The Young and the Restless newest co-headwriter, Jamey Giddens, has broken his silence on accepting the coveted role for CBS ' top-rated soap opera.

Giddens took to Instagram and opened up to his fans, writing, “A little bit of news. I am honored to be the new Co-Head Writer of The Young and the Restless with Dan O’Connor”

He finished the post with an exciting tease, sharing, “Genoa City, here we come!”

In the comment section of his post, members of the daytime community shared their excitement for Giddens. One post came from former Executive VP in Daytime Programs for CBS Angelica McDaniel, who shared, "Congratulations friend, this has been a long time coming! I’m thrilled all these years later Sony has agreed to feature your vision, talent and passion for the iconic brand front and center. You’ve done the hard work. Best of luck and I can’t wait to see what you do with your beloved stories!"

Before working on The Young and the Restless, Giddens daytime career began as a breakdown writer of Beyond the Gates and Days of Our Lives. He was also the creator of Ambitions and ran the writers' room for Tyler Perry’s Sistas.

🎬 SIGN UP for Parade’s Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox🎬

In addition to his work in television, Giddens previously appeared as a co-host for the Daytime Confidential podcast and website, where he examined the various daytime dramas through a lens of hilarious commentary and shared his analytical perspective on the shows that he’s been a lifelong fan of.

Giddens previously shared how he grew up watching The Young and the Restless with his grandparents and has at times been teased for being the “soap encyclopedia,” due to his wealth of knowledge within the genre.

O’Connor previously worked on ABC soap operas One Life to Live and was head writer of General Hospital for years.

No start date has been announced for when Giddens and O’Connor’s content will begin airing, with the duo expected to begin work starting next week. Due to The Young and the Restless production model, episodes from their tenure are expected to air later this Fall.

Brand new episodes of The Young and the Restless air weekdays on CBS and stream weeknights on Paramount+.

In the late 1960s, Fleetwood Macwas led by guitarist and songwriter Peter Green, who penned "Oh Well" before his eventual departure from the band. Released as a two-part composition, the song became one of Fleetwood Mac's earliest breakthrough hits.

Green never expected the almost nine-minute-long track to have been selected as a single from their album Then Play On. He developed the song into two distinct parts, with Part 1 having a more electric blues song sound, and the second half being his attempt at a more semi-classical sound, recorded with a Ramirez Spanish guitar. While Green lobbied to have Part 2 released as the A-side, the record label felt the first half had better appeal.

The guitarist even admitted that he "would not be surprised" if the track didn't perform well. Some reports claim that Mick Fleetwood and Christine McVie made a bet with Green on it not performing well on the charts.

"Oh Well" ended up being a hit and landed Fleetwood Mac their first Billboard Hot 100 entry at No. 55 for 10 weeks. It was also the first single to reach the honor before the introduction of Lindsey Buckingham and Stevie Nicks in 1974. Critics praised the track as one of the earliest crossovers between blues rock and heavy metal.

The track's success wasn't exactly what Green wanted, as radio stations more often than not only played the A-side or Part 1 of "Oh Well." Part 2 of the track was a flamenco-inspired guitar piece, and Green called its representation of "my two extremes." Believe it or not, Green would go on to dismiss the first half of the song, believing the real gem was the second half.

“The best bit was Part 2 on the other side of the record,” Green told Mojo in 1996. “You miss the best bit, the Spanish guitar break. The first side was what we played on stage. I didn’t think it would be a hit, and I used to hate playing that one because we played the part that wasn’t as good. I wanted a bit of moody guitar playing. They wanted the bit that was easy to do, that everyone knew.”

He would also reveal that he never intended "Oh Well" to have a first section, and just wanted to explore a more classical style. Some fans may even notice the use of various instruments in Part 2, like a cowbell and recorder, with the track's last few recorder notes having been played by Green's then-girlfriend Sandra Elsdon.

"Peter bought me a flute, and he bought recorders, and we used to mess around. He could pick up anything and play anything. I don't remember how it came about that I would play the last little piece on that, but I screwed up, so I'm only really playing a few notes at the end. Peter's playing some of that, and then the last few notes are mine," she explained.

The track would also become a staple of the band's live shows and be covered by multiple artists after its release. Some include Deep Purple, Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, The Rockets, Aerosmith, and plenty more. The Rockets reached the pinnacle of their success in 1979 when they released their cover of "Oh Well," which landed them in the Top 40.

Related: 1973 Rock Song, Reimagined for a Hit Film, Is Still a Generational Favorite 53 Years Later

Every week, a trip to Costco feels a little like a small treat for the senses, especially when I make my way to the bakery section. The warm, fresh-baked smell alone is enough to slow me down, and it always feels like there’s something new waiting to brighten up the shopping trip.

That’s exactly how I felt when I decided to try Costco’s Kirkland Signature Pretzel Bagel. At $4.99 for an eight-count, it already had the makings of a little win. It’s the kind of find that makes you feel like you’ve discovered something both practical and a little special at the same time.

😋😋SIGN UP to get delicious recipes, handy kitchen hacks & more in our daily Pop Kitchen newsletter🍳🍔

The first thing I noticed was the look of this pretzel bagel because this isn’t your everyday bagel. With its shiny, golden pretzel finish, it has a warm, inviting appearance that makes breakfast feel more enjoyable before you even take a bite. The texture delivers too: chewy on the outside, soft in the center, and satisfying in a way that feels comforting and familiar.

Related: The Dangerously Delicious Costco Bakery Find I Would Buy Again and Again

What makes this bagel especially appealing is how easy it is to enjoy. Toasting it brings out even more of that pretzel flavor and gives it an extra boost of coziness. A little butter makes it simple and delicious, cream cheese turns it into something a bit more indulgent, and eggs and cheese can take it in a satisfyingly savory direction. It’s the kind of breakfast option that fits whatever mood you’re in.

Kirkland Signature Pretzel Bagel, 8-Pack, $4.99 at Costco

Courtesy Choya Johnson

This is the kind of bakery item that can quickly become a breakfast favorite. The aroma alone is inviting, and once you bring a pack home, it has a way of disappearing faster than you expected. There’s something about it that makes an ordinary morning feel a little more special, whether you’re grabbing one on the go or slowing down to enjoy breakfast at home.

Why the Kirkland Signature Pretzel Bagels Are Worth Grabbing

Courtesy Choya Johnson

Overall, the Kirkland Signature Pretzel Bagel is a worthwhile Costco bakery find. It delivers strong value, a satisfying texture and enough flavor to make it worth buying again. The chewy bite and gentle pretzel-style finish give it a comforting, familiar feel, while still making it stand out from a standard grocery store bagel.

For shoppers who enjoy baked breakfast items with a little more personality, this is a solid pick to keep on the list. It’s easy to dress up with butter, cream cheese or a more savory topping, which makes it flexible for different moods and mornings. Best of all, it feels like a small everyday indulgence without being too over the top.

Final Thoughts

Courtesy Choya Johnson

I thoroughly enjoyed this Costco pretzel bagel, and it even inspired me to make my own breakfast creation: a bacon, egg and cheese pretzel bagel. The result was absolutely delicious. The bagel blended beautifully with the other ingredients, adding a satisfying chew and a subtle pretzel flavor that made the whole sandwich feel extra special.

What I liked most was how easily everything came together. Some breakfast items can be tricky to pair, but this one worked smoothly and tasted great in this combination. It held up well to the fillings and brought enough flavor to stand on its own without overpowering the bacon, egg and cheese.

That said, this bagel is versatile enough to suit plenty of other pairings too. You could keep it simple with butter or cream cheese, or make it more filling with savory toppings and breakfast sandwich ingredients. No matter how you serve it, it seems to complement a wide range of flavors.

That flexibility is part of what makes it so appealing. It feels easy, satisfying and adaptable, which is exactly what you want from a good bakery find. Whether you’re in the mood for something quick or a little more creative, this Costco pretzel bagel is a reliable and tasty choice. Grab a bag of bagels on your next Costco run, and get ready to transform your morning.

Related: The Costco Frozen Aisle Is Hiding Restaurant-Quality Dishes—Here Are the 10 Worth Buying

The Midwest region of the United States is widely known for its friendly and down-to-earth people, its vast farmlands and the gorgeous natural beauty of the Great Lakes. In a place where life seems to move just a little slower and "Midwest Nice" is ingrained, it's a fact that the cultural aspects are aspirational. If you're welcoming a newborn in the coming months and looking for a name that befits this way of life and represents your family's sweet nature, then look no further than these trending names in the Midwest.

The choices are endless, with options ranging from the popular and modern, timeless and vintage, Arabic, Christian and even one-syllable names. Choose a strong name like Henry or Oliver for your baby boy, or something dainty and beautiful like Olivia or Charlotte for your little girl. No matter what name you choose, we're sure this magical time will be remembered for years to come.

We've provided a list of the 75 best and mostpopular Midwest names from sources such as the Social Security Database and NameBerry and included their meanings so you can find the perfect fit for your family. Keep reading to choose your favorite!

Related: 155 Traditional Boy Names That Are Trending for Girls

75 Most Popular Baby Names in the Midwest

Canva/Parade

1. Levi — This Hebrew name means "joined" or "united" and would fit perfectly within a nice family.
2. Wyatt — A rugged Old English name, Wyatt means "strong in war" or "brave in battle."
3. Ava — A lovely and feminine name, Ava has multiple meanings including "life" in Hebrew, "bird" in Latin and "voice" or "sound" in Persian.
4. Benjamin — Of Hebrew origin, this name means "favorite son" or "son of the right hand" and holds connotations of strength and power.
5. Liam — This name originated as an Irish diminutive of the German William and means "resolute protector" or "helmet of will."
6. Grayson — Grayson is an English gender-neutral name that was used originally as a surname and has gained popularity as a given name. It means "son of the steward" or "son of the gray-haired man."
7. Bennett — With both English and Latin roots, this moniker means "blessed" or "well-spoken."
8. Nora — This name means "light" in Greek, French and Hebrew/Arabic and "honor" in Latin.
9. Brooks — Derived from the Old English word broc, this name means "stream" or "small river."
10. Jackson — This English moniker literally translates to "son of Jack," but holds the meaning "God is gracious" as a diminutive of the Hebrew John.
11. Waylon — This Old English name holds roots in German and Old Norse mythology and means "land by the road" or "land by the wayside."
12. Ivy — Stemming from the Old English word ifig, this name refers to the plant and has connotations of resilience and fidelity.

Related: 210 Adorable Baby Names That Mean ‘Love’ for Your Sweet Boy or Girl

Midwest Baby Names for Girls

Canva/Parade

1. Penelope — This Greek name means either "weaver" or "duck."
2. Violet — Of English origin and derived from the Latin wordviola, this name means "purple" or "blue flower."
3. Emma — This German name means "whole" or "complete."
4. Olivia — Stemming from the Latin word oliva for "olive" or "olive tree," this name symbolizes peace, wisdom and fertility.
5. Lucy — This Latin name means "light" or "illumination" and is the feminine form of the name Lucius, both derived from the word lux.
6. Chloe — A Greek name with connotations of vitality, Chloe means "blooming" or "fertility."
7. Lainey — With English and Greek origins, this name means "bright" or "shining light." In Finnish, this name means "wave," translated from the word laine.
8. Isla — This Scottish and Celtic name means "island" or "swelling island."
9. Emily — Derived from the ancient Roman name Aemilius, this Latin name means "strive," "industrious" or "rival."

Midwest Baby Names for Boys

Canva/Parade

1. Owen — Meaning "noble-born" or "youthful warrior," the name Owen holds Welsh and Celtic roots.
2. James — Derived from the Hebrew name Jacob, this name means "holder of the heel" or "supplanter."
3. Asher — This Hebrew name symbolizes joy and holds the meanings of "happy," "fortunate" or "blessed."
4. Lincoln — An Old English place name, Lincoln means "town by the pool" or "lake colony."
5. Noah — Meaning "rest" or "comfort," this Hebrew name symbolizes what life feels like in the Midwest.
6. Luca — With Latin and Italian origins, this name means "light" or "bringer of light."
7. Carter — This English name originated as an occupational surname and means "transporter of goods by cart."
8. Henry — Derived from the Old High German names Heimirich or Haimarīks, this name means "ruler of the home" or "master of the estate."
9. Michael — This Hebrew name means "Who is like God?"

Popular Vintage Names in the Midwest

Canva/Parade

1. Eleanor — With both Old French and Greek origins, this name means "shining light" or "light-hearted."
2. Charlotte — The French feminine form of Charles, Charlotte means "free man" or "petite."
3. Scarlett — Originally an English occupational surname to denote fabric dyers who sold luxurious cloths, this name means "red."
4. Theodore — Meaning "divine gift" or "gift of God," Theodore has Greek origins and stems from the name Theódoros.
5. Isabella — This Italian name is derived from the Hebrew name Elizabeth and means "God is my oath" or "devoted to God."
6. Amelia — With Latin and German roots, the name Amelia means "brave," "industrious" or "striving."
7. Josephine — A feminine form of the name Joseph, this Hebrew name means "God will increase."
8. Oliver — Symbolizing peace and dignity, the name Oliver has roots in Latin and Old French and means "olive tree" or "olive branch."
9. Evelyn — This name holds many meanings, including "desired" or "wished for" in English and French, "radiance" or "beauty" in Irish and "life" in Hebrew.

Related: 75 Gorgeous Girl Names That Start With ‘G’

Favorite Modern Names in the Midwestern U.S.

Canva/Parade

1. Willow — Derived from the Old English word welig for "willow tree," this name symbolizes resilience and grace.
2. Avery — With Old English and French origins, Avery means "ruler of elves" or "elf counsel."
3. Harper — Meaning "harp player" or "minstrel," the name Harper holds origins in Old English, Scottish and Irish.
4. Weston — This English place name means "from the western town" and originated as a surname but has gained popularity as a given name.
5. Sophia — This beautiful Greek name means "wisdom."
6. Hazel — Derived from the Old English word hæsel, this name means "hazelnut" or "hazel tree." It also holds meaning in Hebrew from the name Hazā'ēl and means "God has seen."
7. Aurora — Of Latin origin, this name means "dawn." In Roman mythology, the goddess of sunrise is named Aurora.
8. Hudson — Originally a medieval Anglo-Saxon surname, this English name means "son of Hudd" or "son of Hugh."
9. Cooper — With English and Dutch origins, this name means "barrel maker" and was used as an occupational surname.

Popular Arabic Names in the Midwest

Canva/Parade

1. Elias — Meaning "the Lord is my God" or "my God is Yahweh," this Hebrew name is spelled Ilyās in Arabic.
2. Layla — Traditionally given to girls born at nightfall, this Arabic name means "dark beauty" or "night."
3. Muhammad — This Arabic name means "the praised one" or "praiseworthy."
4. Omar — In Arabic, this name means "flourishing," "prosperous" or "long-lived," while in Hebrew it means "eloquent" or "gifted speaker."
5. Eliana — In Hebrew, this name means "God has answered."
6. Naomi — Also of Hebrew origins, this name means "pleasantness," "delight" or "sweetness."
7. Noor — The Arabic version of the name Nora, Noor means "light" or "brightness."
8. Aisha — Symbolizing vitality, this Arabic name means "prosperous" or "alive."
9. Ali — This Arabic name holds historical roots in Hebrew and means "lofty," "exalted" or "sublime."

Related: 75 Gorgeous Swiss Names for Baby Girls and Boys

Christian Names of the Midwestern States

Canva/Parade

1. Elizabeth — Of Hebrew origins, this name means "God is my oath" or "God's promise."
2. Samuel — Rooted in the bible and with Hebrew origins, the name Samuel means "name of God" or "God has heard."
3. Ezekiel — Combining the Hebrew words chazaq, which means "to be strong," and El, meaning "God," this name means "God strengthens" or "God will strengthen."
4. Joseph — Symbolizing abundance, this Hebrew name means "God shall add."
5. Ezra — Derived from the Hebrew word azar, this name means "helper," "help" or "God is my helper."
6. John — This Hebrew name means "God is gracious" and is the name of one of Jesus' closest disciples in the Bible.
7. Thomas — Derived from the Aramaic word ta'oma and the Hebrew word ta'om, this name means "twin." In the Bible, Thomas was also called Didymus, which is the Greek word for twin.
8. Elijah — From the Hebrew name Eliyahu, this name means "the Lord is my God" or "my God is Yahweh."
9. Grace — This Latin moniker means "favor," "blessing" or "thanks."

One-Syllable Names in the Midwest

Canva/Parade

1. Dean — With English and Latin roots, this name means "valley" or "leader" and in Hebrew it means "judgment."
2. Rhett — Of both English and Dutch origins, this name means "counsel" or "advice."
3. Luke — The English form of the Latin name Lucas or Greek name Loukas, this name means "light-giving" or "man from Lucania."
4. Hayes — With English and Irish roots, this name means "enclosure" or "hedged area."
5. Zoe — The Greek equivalent of the name Eve, Zoe means "life." You can pronounce this in one syllable ("Zo"), or it could be two, which is typical ("Zo-ee").
6. Beau — Derived from the word bellus, meaning "pretty," this French name means "beautiful" or "handsome."
7. Jett — With English and French origins, this name means "black mineral" or "jet black."
8. Jack — This English name means "God is gracious" and is a diminutive of the Hebrew name John.
9. Jude — A shortened version of the Hebrew name Judah, this name means "praised."

Up Next:

Related: 75 Traditional Amish Names for Baby Girls and Boys

Happy 66th birthday to Richard Linklater, the acclaimed director behind Oscar-nominated films likeBoyhood, Before Sunset, and Blue Moon.

Born in Houston, Texas and found fame with 1990 film Slackers. The film has been credited with kickstarting the indie movie boom of the '90s. He went on to make Dazed and Confused, School of Rock and A Scanner Darkly. His most recent films were Glen Powell's breakout Hit Man, and the biographical films Blue Moon and Nouvelle Vague.

Although he has had a long and diverse filmography, Linklater is best known for his Before Triology, starring Ethan Hawke and Julie Delpy. "The film explores memory and change as well as revisiting the themes of Sunrise, that of romanticism and cynicism, but with the pangs of missed opportunity and loss of self," Hero Magazine writes.

As Movie Marker notes, Linklater’s films are "characterized by a lived-in sense of just hanging out that can feel casual in the moment and profound in memory."

"I’ve made entire movies about that feeling that when you can’t really express yourself. Music does it for you. It becomes such a big part of your philosophy of life. I loved visual art and museums, I was painting and doing designs, I liked woodworking. I was taking it all in," he told the Big Issue earlier this year.

He admitted that he never thought he would be making the naturalistic, anti-traditional filmmaking he has now become known and loved for.

He told the Big Issue when promoting Nouvelle Vague. "At that time, I had some big commercial, science fiction ideas. A lot of the stories I wrote were pretty out there. But what I really had to express was right in front of me," he said. "

There’s a moment where you realize the stuff of your own life can be your material. You have to work to get there. It’s a hurdle to overcome to think it’s worthy – because we grow up thinking stories are these big things that come from elsewhere.  

His next project is a biopic of Lou Gehrig, starring Glen Powell. He is also working on another ambitious project, an adaptation of Merrily We Roll Along, which sees him periodically filming his cast between 2019 and 2040. Starring Paul Mescal, Ben Platt and Beanie Feldstein, the musical will naturally follow the cast as they age, rather than use makeup and costumes.

Related: 2004 Film Was Just Named the 'Most Perfect Romantic Movie of the Last 40 Years'

Bill Burr has acquired a steadfast reputation for calling it like he sees it. Making a career out of his hilarious deadpan observations, the comedian has routinely poked fun at countless celebrities over the years, from Elon Musk and Bill Maher to Oprah Winfrey and Joe Rogan.

Back in 2025, for example, Burr poked fun at former SNL cast member Kevin Nealon as the two hiked through the woods together on an episode of Nealon's Hiking with Kevin.

During the course of their time together, Burr humorously pointed out that Nealon was far from the nice guy he initially appeared as, with the comedian telling Nealon, “I find your personality fascinating because people think you’re a nice guy. And you’re not.”

"What you do is, you draw information out (of people) and you find out what they’re good at and then you sh*t on it,” Burr went on to say. “And then when the person reacts to it, you turn around and put it on them. It’s very toxic. Very toxic.”

Nealon immediately laughed at Burr's observation, further egging Burr on to continue with his jokes.

“I feel like there’s a bunch of women that you used to date watching this right now going, ‘Yes, yes, yes! That was exactly the Kevin Nealon experience!’” Burr said.

Burr's jokes all gravitated around his confession that music meant the world to him, a field that he often felt stood in sharp contrast to the subjective nature of comedy performances.

"It’s hard to tell like how good you are as a comedian, right?” Burr observed to Nealon. “You don’t know. People say you’re good or whatever. What does that mean? Does that mean they think you’re good or that they want some work on the road? You have no idea.”

“I always wish that someone could just pick up a guitar and play at the level comic I was so I could tell where I was,” Burr continued.

The most thrilling part of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone is arguably when the titular wizard finally gets his hands on the Golden Snitch.

Twenty-five years ago, the scene made us jump in our movie-theater seats. And now, said Quidditch gizmo is just one of the many on-screen treasures heading to a live sale next month.

On Thursday, July 30, Propstore announced it will present its Summer Entertainment Memorabilia Live Auction from August 26-29 in Los Angeles, bringing together more than 1,700 lots of original film and TV props, costumes, production material, autographed treasures and more — with a combined pre-sale estimate of $10 million.

Collectors and fans around the world will be able to participate via live online, absentee and telephone bidding, according to Propstore. Check out a preview image of the Snitch that's up for grabs below.

Leading the sale is John Travolta's iconic white suit from Saturday Night Fever (est. $200,000-$400,000), worn during the film's memorable disco competition and featured in many of its best-known promotional images. One of the most recognizable costumes in cinema history, the three-piece suit was later owned by legendary film critic Gene Siskel and bears a handwritten inscription from Travolta.

Also among the top lots is the screen-matched opening scene mosquito in amber fossil from Jurassic Park (est. $100,000-$200,000). As fans well know, the fossil represents the scientific breakthrough that set the events of Steven Spielberg's groundbreaking blockbuster in motion.

"At Propstore, we're passionate about preserving and sharing the history of film and television through the original objects that helped bring these stories to life," said Brandon Alinger, Propstore COO, in a statement. "From John Travolta's iconic white suit from Saturday Night Fever and the amber fossil from Jurassic Park to a remarkable collection of autographed treasures, this auction reflects the incredible diversity of entertainment memorabilia and offers collectors the opportunity to own authentic pieces of the films, performers, and moments that continue to inspire audiences around the world."

Registration for the summer auction is now open, and the full catalog is available here.

Parade aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.

If you're looking for sheets that stay cool without sacrificing comfort, it's hard to beat cotton percale during the warmer months. Crisp, breathable, and lightweight, percale has that classic luxury hotel feel while remaining softer than linen and cooler than microfiber, making it a favorite for hot sleepers.

One standout option is the Martha Stewart Skylands Cotton Percale Sheet Set. Martha Stewart's home collection has long been known for combining quality with timeless style, and this set is no exception. Right now, it's on sale for 59% off at Wayfair, bringing the price down from $92 to just $38.

Martha Stewart Skylands Cotton Percale Sheet Set, $38 (was $92) at Wayfair

Courtesy of Wayfair

Shop at Wayfair

The sheets are available in twin, full, queen, and king sizes, with the twin including one pillowcase and larger sizes including two. You can also choose from white, beige, blue, or green to suit your bedroom decor.

Thoughtful details make the set even more practical. The fitted sheet features premium elastic all the way around to help keep it securely in place, while the 15-inch deep pocket easily accommodates thicker mattresses. It's also Standard 100 by Oeko-Tex certified, meaning it's been tested for harmful substances, and it's machine-washable for easy care.

Made from 100% cotton, the sheets feature a crisp percale weave that's breathable, smooth, and durable enough for year-round use. The fabric feels cool against the skin while softening over time with every wash.

Related: Macy’s ‘Cozy’ Craftsman-Inspired Floral Quilt Set Brings Timeless Style to Your Home for 75% Less

The clean finish and polished hems give the sheets a tailored look that works beautifully with both traditional and modern bedrooms. The timeless solid colors also make them easy to layer with quilts, patterned comforters, or decorative pillows.

Shoppers praised the sheets for their quality and texture. One reviewer said, “It fits perfectly on my deep queen mattress. It has the crispness of cotton and also is very soft. It seems like a quality set and is stitched well so I think it will hold up.” 

Another shopper highlighted the “superior weave,” sharing, “These Martha Stewart percale sheets are like none other. The cooling comfort is the best, especially if you are a hot sleeper.”

Shop More Deals

• Nautica Bradford Breathable Cotton Percale Sheet Set, $31 (was $100) at Wayfair
• Martha Stewart Lilly Pond Leaf Embroidered Cotton Sheet Set, $29 (was $100) at Wayfair
• Laura Ashley Printed Cotton Sheet Set, From $57 (was $84) at Wayfair

For a sheet set that's breathable, durable, and effortlessly stylish, the Martha Stewart Skylands Cotton Percale Sheet Set is an excellent value. And with Wayfair's current 59% discount, you can save more than $50 while giving your bed a hotel-worthy upgrade.

Don’t miss future deals! Sign up for Parade Picks to receive our commerce team’s curated selection of discounts and sales, twice a week.

By the late 1960s, The Turtles had become one of pop-rock's most successful groups, scoring hits with songs like "Happy Together" and "She'd Rather Be With Me." But the band was growing restless and wanted to show it could do more than repeat the formula that had made it famous. 

Howard Kaylan, Mark Volman, Al Nichol, Jim Pons and John Barbata explored that idea on The Turtles Present the Battle of the Bands, an album that allowed the five-piece to experiment with a wide range of styles.

Released in November 1968, the record included "Elenore," a spoof that exaggerated the cheerful pop persona the group had cultivated through its biggest hits.

Kaylan later explained that he didn't even use an instrument to write the song. Instead, he heard the chords in his head and knew exactly how they fit together. 

But the group's frontman wasn't trying to write another pop hit. "Elenore" was, in his words, "a total joke." Kaylan had such mixed feelings when the label said they liked the song that he wasn't sure what to make of it.

“If they liked it that means they didn’t get the joke and that they wanted us to record this teenage song with words like ‘Gee I think you’re swell’ and ‘you’re my pride and joy etcetera,’” he told Rock Cellar Magazine. 

“Which really was baffling to me because I thought they would just throw it out the window and go, 'All right wise guy, we see, we’ll find some real material for you, don’t worry about it.'"

"They never got the joke," he continued. “America really never got the joke and most of the world never did it either. But I’m thrilled because it was a big hit. If it goes over your head and it says ‘pride and joy etcetera,’ then I’m thrilled to death.”

The song reportedly came together quickly, with Kaylan writing in his 2013 autobiography Shell Shocked that he finished it in just 30 minutes.

What he didn't expect was for his joke to become another hit. Released as a single in September 1968, "Elenore" peaked at No. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100, making it a Top 10 hit in the U.S.

It also charted strongly overseas, reaching No. 7 in the U.K., No. 4 in Canada, No. 3 in Australia and No. 1 in New Zealand.

Related: 1985 Debut Single, Released Twice, Became a No. 1 Hit the Second Time

While everyone experiences headaches from time to time, getting them regularly can truly be disruptive to everyday functioning. According to the Oregon Health & Science University Headache Center, up to one in 20 US adults get headaches nearly every single day. That’s no way to live.

There are several types of headaches, each stemming from different causes. One often overlooked reason for headaches is dehydration. Sometimes, simply drinking a glass of water is enough to make it go away. 

Related: These Are the 6 Most Common Types of Headaches—And What To Do About Them

Some other common reasons for headaches include lack of sleep, staring at your computer too long, stress, caffeine withdrawal or skipping a meal. Certain types of illnesses can cause headaches, too, such as viral infections. 

There’s another headache-causing culprit that’s found in almost every home that you may be overlooking. Here, neurologists explain what it is, how it can cause headaches and what to replace it with. A simple substitution may be all it takes for your headaches to go away for good.

Related: Headache-Proof Your Life With These Tips and Tricks for Lasting Headache Relief

The Surprising Household Item That Can Cause Headaches

If you regularly get headaches, there’s one common habit that might be causing them: burning candles at home. Dr. Crystal Jicha, MD,a neurologist with UCI Health who specializes in headaches and facial pain disorders, notes that people who get headaches regularly, especially migraines, are often more sensitive to scents, including those from candles. 

“It’s unclear whether these are symptoms caused by changes in the brain that start before a classic migraine attack or if these scents trigger a migraine attack. Either way, approximately 25 to 75% of individuals with migraine will exhibit sensitivity to smell. For some, this can even occur between attacks,” she tells Parade. 

Dr. Nicholas Bellacicco, DO, a neurologist and headache and facial pain specialist with Hartford HealthCare Ayer Neuroscience Institute Headache Center, says that while there hasn’t been much scientific research on scent-induced headaches, anecdotally, he has seen this with his patients. One theory, he explains, is that this type of headache is caused by a hypersensitivity in the brain that occurs with migraine.

“Patients with a diagnosis of migraine may report a worsening or development of headache symptoms from candles. In one study in the journal Headache, it’s noted that 45.5% of the participants reported odor as a trigger,” Dr. Bellacicco says.  

🩺SIGN UP for tips to stay healthy & fit with the top moves, clean eats, health trends & more delivered right to your inbox twice a week💊

What Type of Candles Are Most Likely To Cause Headaches?

If you are sensitive to scents, there are certain types of candles you might want to steer clear of buying. Dr. Jicha points out that paraffin candles tend to release stronger scents, which means that they may be less tolerable for people who are prone to headaches. 

In terms of what type of fragrances are most headache-inducing, Dr. Jicha says that studies on smell sensitivity in people with migraine show that perfumes, particularly sweet fragrances, and roses or flowers are ranked as highly bothersome. “People with migraine disorder tend to avoid walking through perfume and bodycare shops for this reason,” she explains. 

That means if you get headaches often, you may be better off buying candles that are more woodsy, earthy or herbal-scented. Some examples of this include sandalwood, lavender and sage, eucalyptus or fresh linen. 

Related: The One Thing You Should Never, Ever Do if You Want To Avoid Getting a Headache, According to Neurologists

Other Tips for Preventing Candle-Induced Headaches

Besides choosing candles that don’t have a floral or sweet scent, Dr. Jicha says it can be helpful to only light them in large, open rooms rather than smaller, enclosed spaces. If any scented candle seems to give you a headache—even when it’s lit in a big, open room—Dr. Bellacicco explains that it might be a good idea to use electronic candles instead. That way, you can still get the nice, cozy vibe without the heady scent.

Dr. Bellacicco adds that candles can disrupt the air quality in the environment and while not specific to candles, air pollution in general has been shown to have a connection with migraine. Because of this, it can be helpful to do what you can to minimize air pollution in other ways, such as regularly changing your HVAC filters, dusting and vacuuming regularly and using air purifiers. 

If your headaches are disrupting your daily life, see a doctor about it. “Treatment with preventive therapies can help to reduce the burden of migraine and raise the threshold for triggering migraine attacks when exposed to environmental stimuli like scents,” Dr. Jicha says. 

It’s important to know that there are treatments for recurring headaches, so don’t suffer in silence. But considering if the candles you’re burning at home could be triggering your symptoms is a great place to start. 

Up Next:

Related: The One Pilates Move That Actually Helps With Tech Neck, According to Instructors

Sources  

• Understanding Headaches and Migraines. Oregon Health & Science University Brain Institute.
• What Causes Frequent Headaches and When to Worry. Lone Star Neurology.
• Dr. Crystal Jicha, MD, neurologist with UCI Health who specializes in headaches and facial pain disorders.
• Dr. Nicholas Bellacicco, DO, neurologist and headache and facial pain specialist with Hartford HealthCare Ayer Neuroscience Institute Headache Center.
• Kelman, L. (2004). Osmophobia and taste abnormality in migraineurs: a tertiary care study. Headache. 44(10):1019-23.
• Imai, N., Osani, A., Moriya, A. et al. (2023). Classification of odors associated with migraine attacks: a cross-sectional study. Scientific Reports. doi: 10.1038/s41598-023-35211-7.
• Peles, I., Novak, L., Gordon, M., et al. (2026). Acute Environmental Triggers and Intermediate-Term Modulators of Emergency Migraine-Related Health Care Encounters. Neurology. 106(9):e214926.