Every week we like to bring you a roundup of some of the latest trends in beauty, health and wellness, and other articles of interest to ZENMED blog readers. Last week, we came across some interesting posts on the number one skincare mistake, workplace wellness initiatives, bad habits and People’s most beautiful woman of 2014.

The biggest skin-care mistake every woman makes

Applying  products out of order is the number one skincare mistake women make, reports Megan McIntire.  Dermatologist Dr. Neal Schultz cites general confusion about which products to apply first as the reason behind this mistake . When in doubt, t apply products from light to thick consistency. Products with water or alcohol — such as gels, lotions and toners — are applied after cleansing and before serum and rich creams. The dermatologist assures us nothing bad will happen to skin if the proper order isn’t followed, but says that when products are applied correctly, they work more effectively.

Wellness programs grow more popular with employers

Health and wellness programs at work are on the rise, shares Catherine Lucey. As more illnesses are linked to poor lifestyle choices such as a lack of exercise, health care costs continue to rise. Employers are jumping on the wellness bandwagon, seeing healthy workers as a win-win situation. When employees eat well and exercise, their health may improve. This may ultimately lead to less money spent by businesses on conditions which may be preventable. This is not without controversy, as the article mentions a lack of evidence that employers save money with these initiatives.

Saving Face: Breaking a few bad habits could help slow the aging process

Cloe Cabrera  shares some helpful information from board certified dermatologist Dr. Rachel Careccia on bad habits women should nip in the bud. She considers smoking one of the worst things people can do to their skin because it accelerates the aging process, as nicotine causes cell damage and inflammation. Drinking alcohol also has negative effects on the skin, such as dehydration. Even things we all do without thinking, such as squinting or pursing our lips, can make skin age more quickly.

Lupita Nyong’o, world’s most beautiful

Antoinette Coulton  and Julie Jordan report on People’s  announcement of the fifty most beautiful women in the world. Earning the title of “most beautiful” is Oscar-winning actress Lupita Nyong’o of the movie 12 Years a Slave.  Among the celebrities included in the current top fifty are Jennifer Lawrence and Julia Roberts, who won the top honor  in 2010, 2005 and 2000.