Skin Archives - Suggest https://www.suggest.com/c/beauty-style/skin/ We celebrate the self-awareness, empathy, and wisdom of women in midlife. Fri, 03 Feb 2023 15:28:02 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.0.2 https://upload.suggest.com/sg/uploads/2023/02/cropped-Suggest-Favicon-512x512-2-32x32.png Skin Archives - Suggest https://www.suggest.com/c/beauty-style/skin/ 32 32 Martha Stewart Shared A Filter-Free Selfie And We Need To Know Her Skincare Regimen ASAP https://www.suggest.com/martha-stewart-shared-filter-free-selfie-skincare-regimen-asap/2722206/ Sun, 05 Feb 2023 21:00:00 +0000 https://www.suggest.com/?p=2722206 Martha Stewart smiles in all-white outfit

Martha Stewart can teach us all more than how to make perfect scrambled eggs. During a recent visit to the hair salon, the businesswoman shared a filter-free selfie, and WOW! We can’t get over how amazing her skin looks!

At 81 years old, how does Stewart do it? The interior designer credits “a mostly dry January and pilates every other day” for her incredible skin. But we suspect that her skincare routine also plays a role in her flawless complexion.

Thankfully, Stewart mentions the products she can’t live without on her website. The lifestyle icon stresses that it’s not just what products you use but also when and how you use them.

An early riser, Stewart begins her daily routine at 5 a.m. with a face mask that sits for 30 minutes. Her top choice is Yon-Ka Gommage 305, a gentle facial peel that clarifies the skin and reduces redness. Since it’s perfect for any skin type, this magical mask renews the skin and makes it look brighter than ever.

When she’s looking for something a bit more comprehensive, she reaches for the Mario Badescu Super Collagen Mask. This collagen and clay-based mask tightens, purifies, and nourishes skin of all types while reducing the appearance of lines and making skin look more vibrant.

After the face mask sits for 30 minutes, Stewart jumps into the shower and then chooses products based on how her skin feels that day. A frequent choice is Mario Badescu Facial Spray. Simple, gentle, and effective, the facial spray is the perfect way to achieve smooth and refreshed skin.

When it comes to serums, Stewart is a firm believer in layering. One of her favorite treatments is SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic Serum. This vitamin C serum protects skin from the environment while reducing the appearance of lines.

Another go-to for Stewart is the Mario Badescu Vitamin C Serum. The brightening serum uses Vitamin C, collagen, and lavender oil to reveal a luminous look for all skin types. It’s also known to reduce lines, scars, and tighten skin.

Stewart also blessed us with a third serum to try: BioEffect EGF Day Serum. This wrinkle-fighting treatment is ultra-hydrating and environmentally friendly. In fact, the serum only has 7 ingredients that are grown in the company’s ecologically-engineered greenhouses.

While Stewart’s skin may look superhuman, even she’s not immune to the sun. Her favorite sunscreen is SkinCeuticals Physical Fusion UV Defense SPF 50.

The lightweight product is water-resistant and boasts broad-spectrum sun protection while boosting the skin’s radiance. Stewart applies it right before going outside for maximum effectiveness. 

After spending the day in the sun, it’s important to moisturize. Stewart most frequently opts for Yon-Ka Pamplemousse because it helps dry and dull skin regain its radiance.

She also uses Mario Badescu Revitalin Moisturizer, which visibly brightens and improves dull skin with allantoin and vitamin E.

With such a great skincare routine, Stewart shows us that age doesn’t matter when it comes to an incredible complexion. You just need a few good products!

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The Most Exciting Beauty Product I’ve Seen In A While Fades Dark Spots After Just One Use https://www.suggest.com/minimo-turmeric-face-scrub-review/2720869/ Wed, 01 Feb 2023 22:15:00 +0000 https://www.suggest.com/?p=2720869 Jar of Minimo Skin Essentials Glow Turmeric Skin Brightening Face Scrub

I asked my 10-year-old daughter to help me with this review by letting me take a video of her opening my Minimo Glow Skin Brightening Turmeric Face Scrub. After unscrewing the cap and removing the protective covering, she immediately plunged her finger into it, then promptly licked said finger.

I was like, “Ew, no!” and expected her to run to the sink to wash her mouth out, assuming it would taste like soap. But she was like, “It’s sweet!” and went for another helping. Don’t worry I stopped her, but after that, I couldn’t not taste it myself and she’s right, it’s not bad.

This is not usually how I test my beauty products, and I’m not suggesting you eat your face scrub. But I had to assume that if it tastes good, it must be made of pretty good ingredients. Turns out, at least for this product, that is indeed the case!

Minimo Skin Essentials launched in 2016 and is a women-led, black-owned, made-in-USA brand that’s obsessed with natural, non-toxic ingredients.

The Turmeric Face Scrub is made with organic turmeric, an antioxidant that provides a natural glow, raw Manuka honey to soothe and hydrate, plus organic cinnamon to nourish dry skin and promote an even skin tone. It also includes chamomile and lemon extracts, as well as oils that won’t clog pores.

I have to say this is the most creative use of natural ingredients I’ve encountered in a while, and that goes for the entire line of Minimo products.

I know “natural” is a generic term, but in this case, I mean ingredients you immediately recognize, rather than unpronounceable rearrangements of mysterious molecules. The Minimo face scrub is made of things you probably have in your pantry, formulated in unique ways to clean, soften, and even out your skin tone.

It all adds up to a powerful but gentle (no bleach like some products) exfoliator that naturally buffs away uneven skin tone and dark spots caused by breakouts or scarring. Reviewers also say it has also lightened their under-eye circles, and some have even used it to lighten other parts of their bodies including elbows and feet.

The first time I used it I found out quickly that you need less than you think, so I recommend starting with a dime-sized amount. I gently scrubbed with the heart-shaped applicator and left it on for about three minutes (the instructions say you can leave it up to 10).

I have a teardrop-shaped discoloration on my left cheek that comes and goes. I didn’t expect a single use of the scrub to have any effect, but the discolored patch of skin visibly changed from a brownish shade to pinkish. It also had a rough texture which is now smoother. Needless to say, I’ll be continuing to use this product regularly and monitor my progress.

P.S. it also comes in Lemon Cake scent!

I’m also loving Minimo’s Velvet Cleansing Butter Balm with babassu butter and eucalyptus. I have broken up with face wipes, so I’m always looking for a gentle but effective way to remove my makeup at the end of the day.

It’s pretty thick and unyielding when you first dip into the pot, but after massaging the product between your hands, it gets more malleable. Because of the eucalyptus, it has a menthol scent and feel on your skin, which made me nervous to get it around my eyes. But I needed to get my mascara off, so I risked it. Luckily it was not a problem, and the mascara was eliminated.

After you massage it into your skin, get your hands wet and then massage some more. It will pleasantly foam up a bit and dissolve the makeup and anything else your face has collected during the day. After rinsing it off I made my husband touch my face to feel how soft it was.

I’m not the only one excited about Minimo—thousands of reviewers on Amazon as well as the brand’s website have given them five-star reviews. So if you’re looking for effective products with ingredients you can pronounce, this line might be for you.

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A True Salvation: This Multipurpose Skin Balm Treats My Eczema Better Than A Topical Steroid Cream https://www.suggest.com/balmonds-skin-salvation-review/2720797/ Wed, 01 Feb 2023 15:15:00 +0000 https://www.suggest.com/?p=2720797 Balmonds Skin Salvation product shot

Now that I’m over 50, my skin is so much more finicky than when I was younger. Back in the day, I would bake in the sun with impunity and ski in freezing weather with nothing more than rosy cheeks to show for it. 

Nowadays, although I never sun-tan and ski significantly less, I keep moisturizer in every room of the house to ensure I apply it after washing my hands, doing dishes, or just sitting at my desk. 

The more often I moisturize, the less likely I am to get dry, rough patches of skin. But they inevitably show up anyway, mostly on my hands, and they are annoyingly stubborn—so much so that I asked my doctor about it. She diagnosed me with eczema and prescribed a pretty strong topical steroid. The medication works, but I don’t like using a steroid multiple times a day and it often feels necessary. 

That’s why I’m thrilled to have discovered Balmonds Skin Salvation, which is now a permanent fixture on my desk. It’s a super-rich multipurpose balm made with oils and herbal tinctures to calm, moisturize, and protect sensitive skin. 

It’s very concentrated, so a little bit goes a long way. It’s packed with beeswax, chamomile, calendula, and hemp seed oil. Notably, it doesn’t contain synthetic ingredients or fragrance, which can exacerbate issues when your skin is sensitive.

It also doesn’t contain paraffin, parabens, phthalates, preservatives, soy, lanolin, nuts, or gluten—so no matter what your diet, allergies, or lifestyle choices are, this powerful ointment will likely fit the bill (sorry about the beeswax, vegans). 

Skin Salvation instantly eases itchiness and softens my skin. You’ll find me massaging it onto the troublesome areas of my hands anytime I’m on a call or doing online research. 

I love that it doesn’t have fragrance because while I actually love scents, it would certainly become overwhelming given how often I apply the product. The lack of fragrance also means it won’t interfere with any perfume or scented lotion you might want to wear.

Kristen Philipkoski with Balmonds Skin Salvation
(Kristen Philipkoski)

I also love that it comes in a glass jar—the less plastic in my life, the better (and I hope Balmonds follows suit with the packaging of its other products!).

Speaking of the brand’s other products, you might also want to check out the two-in-one Natural Shampoo and Body Wash (with my long, coarse hair, I prefer this as a body wash, and it would be great for babies) and the divine Bath & Body Oil (which I love adding to my bath as well as slathering all over my body afterward), as well as their Daily Moisturizing Cream, which pairs perfectly with the Skin Salvation balm. 

While I mostly use Skin Salvation on my hands, it’s perfect for rough, cracked, or red skin anywhere—dry elbows will love it, as will chapped après-ski cheeks.

And you definitely don’t have to be over 50 to use it; it’s also great for diaper rash and dermatitis. It’s non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog pores, so it could even be good for your teenager or young adult. It supports a healthy skin barrier no matter your age, and tattoo artists even recommend it for aftercare!

A few other highlights that make me feel good about using Balmond’s Skin Salvation: All Balmonds products are cruelty-free and made of ethical, sustainably-sourced, and 100% biodegradable ingredients. 

Don’t just take it from me—Skin Salvation has more than 2,000 five-star reviews from people who’ve used it for everything from psoriasis, dermatitis, and diaper rash to dry skin and eczema. Plus, Balmonds offers a money-back guarantee, so you really can’t go wrong.

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Think Twice: Fillers Can Last In Your Skin For Decades, Even If It Seems Like They’re Gone https://www.suggest.com/fillers-lasting-in-skin-for-years/2717377/ Wed, 25 Jan 2023 22:35:00 +0000 https://www.suggest.com/?p=2717377 Gloved doctor hand injecting a vial of dermal filler

Dermal fillers have become an increasingly popular beauty trend in recent years due to their affordability, convenience, and minimal recovery time.

Aside from being fast-acting, fillers are also believed to be a temporary solution to reversing volume loss without surgery or downtime—an ideal option for those who want to test the waters of cosmetic procedures without making a major commitment. 

It’s possible, however, that those who use dermal fillers are making a longer commitment than they signed up for, raising some questions about their permanence.

A Surprising Discovery

Apart from the widely-held belief that these injections are temporary, those who opt for dermal fillers are also told they can be dissolved at any time if they wish to remove them. But we’re discovering that doesn’t always entirely take care of the issue.

Take longtime beauty writer Alice Hart-Davis’ cautionary tale regarding dermal fillers, for example.

Like many, Hart-Davis believed dermal fillers were temporary, so she was shocked when she saw how much residual filler was still present in her face after undergoing an MRI. Although she hadn’t had any filler injections in four years, the MRI showed 35ml of filler still present in her face, more than she’d ever had in the 20 years since she first began dermal injections.

Now in her 60s, Hart-Davis noted that she’d started her filler journey in her 40s and had received extensive treatments over the following 20 years.

Her cosmetic treatments included hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers in her temples, cheeks, and lips. Beyond that, she’d also used injections to smooth her nose-to-mouth lines, fill in tear troughs, and define her jawline, chin, and even the tails of her eyebrows.

Hart-Davis was told that her treatments would last a year or so at most and that in order to maintain her appearance, she’d need to undergo additional regular HA injections. In fact, several clinics actually insist that you visit every six to 12 months to keep your look fresh. 

Even though she was shocked by the amount of filler left over in her face as shown on the MRI, she wasn’t entirely surprised either. In spite of being told about fillers’ limited lifespan and the routine upkeep they required, Hart-Davis had also heard reports over the years of fillers lasting much longer. In the course of following one physician’s research on the subject, Hart-Davis became fascinated by what she learned.

Filler Doesn’t Always Go Away On Its Own

After seeing a number of cosmetic patients with swelling around the eyes, Dr. Mobin Master, an aesthetic radiologist in Melbourne, questioned whether residual filler was to blame. His investigation eventually shone a public light on the longevity of dermal fillers.

Although he knew MRI scans could be useful for identifying filler left in the face, Dr. Master noted that seeing residual filler dating from two to nearly 12 years back on a variety of patient scans was a “surprising discovery.” In Hart-Davis’ case, even her radiologist, Dr. Simon Morley, was astounded by her results.

The residual filler amazingly didn’t appear to be causing any visual issues, yet Dr. Morley said he was “blown away” by the amount left over under her skin. Considering hyaluronic acid is meant to dissolve over time, what could have caused this?

As in Hart-Davis’ case, doctors speculate that hyaluronic acid’s ability to attract water might explain why the residual filler showed up as a larger volume on her MRI scan. There’s also the possibility that the scan picked up on filler that had integrated with her facial tissue as well as plain old leftover filler. Either might explain why the whopping 35ml of filler on Hart-Davis’ scan exceeded the total amount of filler she’d received in her lifetime.

What does this mean for dermal fillers in the long run? Although this information shouldn’t necessarily scare those who use fillers and other facial injectables out of using them, it may shed some light on the potential longevity of your treatments.

Bottom line: When considering filler, it’s important to keep in mind that it might remain under your skin for much longer than you expect.

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Retinol Not Cutting It? New Pro-Collagen Molecule Is The Secret Behind This Revolutionary Skincare Product https://www.suggest.com/revela-fibroquin-essence-overview/2717309/ Sat, 21 Jan 2023 16:25:00 +0000 https://www.suggest.com/?p=2717309 Woman holding FIbroquin Essence bottle next to face

In the vast world of skincare, there are a lot of familiar players, from retinol to hyaluronic acid to vitamin B and more. Most products available on the market use varying formulas of the same ingredients, but Revela wanted to try something different.

Revela is a skin and hair company founded by Ivy League-trained scientists. They use proprietary AI search technologies to find new solutions to old problems. Revela isn’t finding ways to dress up familiar ingredients—they’re discovering entirely new molecules for the job.

First, the team created a revolutionary hair growth molecule called ProCelinyl™. Now, they’ve moved on to another all-too-common issue: thinning, sagging skin that has lost its bounce over time.

Finding Fibroquin™ Out Of Millions

Using the same AI technology that discovered ProCelinyl™, Revela’s researchers screened five million molecules for their skin-tightening and -firming efficacy. Through continuous lab and human clinical testing, the team narrowed their search to a single solution: Fibroquin™. 

Fibroquin™ is a pro-collagen molecule that lifts and tones the skin by helping to restore firmness, fullness, and bounce to thinning, sagging skin. Moreover, the product is suitable for all sensitivity levels thanks to its gentle formula. 

Despite its gentleness on the skin, Revela’s Fibroquin™ Essence formula boasts a high concentration for maximum efficacy. It’s designed to absorb quickly and layers well under makeup and other skincare products.

Clinical Studies Show Promising Results

In an eight-week clinical study by Revela, Fibroquin™ Essence was compared to a top competitor’s 0.5% retinol.

The study participants showed a 21% measured improvement in skin elasticity—double that observed from participants who used the 0.5% retinol competitor. This increase in skin elasticity resulted in more plump and lifted skin, as quantified by a cytometer, a probe used in clinical studies to test the skin’s elasticity.

Additionally, 93% of participants showed a significant improvement in skin elasticity by week eight—all without any negative side effects.

What makes Revela’s Fibroquin™ better than the competitors? Fibroquin™ works to address the changes in our skin structure that contribute to outward signs of aging. By supporting the skin’s pro-collagen bio-pathway directly, Fibroquin™ aims to achieve firmer, more toned skin from the outside in.

Skincare Products Not Working Are Not Your Fault

We spoke to one of Revela’s co-founders last December about their trailblazing Hair Revival series. He said that the Revela team wanted to veer away from the same ineffective ingredients popular in the skincare market today.

“We saw every serum had retinol or vitamin C, and these are 100-year-old molecules. There’s no way that these are the best we can do,” Evan Zhao said. He added that Fibroquin™ “outsmarted” retinol by tackling its shortcomings in skin elasticity and “has none of the purging periods” commonly associated with these harsher treatments.

Zhao said that beauty brands often market their products to imply that “if these products don’t work, it’s your fault. It’s extremely toxic, and the way they push the blame onto the customers is extremely predatory.”

So, if you’ve been frustrated by the skincare products you’ve tried, perhaps a brand new molecule is exactly the thing that can revitalize your skin. With Revela’s Fibroquin™ Essence, you could see firmer, tighter, more youthful-looking skin in as little as eight weeks.

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A Botox Alternative That Promises To Work For Twice As Long Might Be Hitting The Market This Year https://www.suggest.com/daxxify-alternative-to-botox-overview/2710736/ Wed, 04 Jan 2023 22:55:00 +0000 https://www.suggest.com/?p=2710736 Woman getting injections in forehead

Botox has had virtually no competitors since it received FDA approval as a temporary cosmetic treatment for moderate-to-severe wrinkles in 2002. However, Revance Aesthetics is here to change that. 

In September 2022, Revance announced in a news release that the FDA had officially approved DAXXIFY™ (DaxibotulinumtoxinA-lanm) to improve wrinkles temporarily. So yes, it’s very similar to Botox—but it might even be a step up.

From promising longer-lasting results to being formulated with no human or animal byproducts, here’s how Daxxify might just beat Botox at its own game.

A Neuromodulator By Any Other Name

Daxxify is in the same family of medicines as Botox, Dysport, and Xeomin called neuromodulators. Neuromodulators work by injecting a minute amount of botulinum toxin into the lower muscle, which causes the tissue on top to relax. This creates a smoother appearance in the skin (read: fewer wrinkles). 

The FDA’s approval of Daxxify was based on clinical trial data concerning more than 2,700 patients and 4,200 treatments. Around 98% of participants saw little to no wrinkles one day after injection. And for approximately 80% of these individuals, those results lasted around four months.

Moreover, 50% still had no or mild wrinkle severity after six months, and these treatment results were maintained in some patients for as long as nine months after their last Daxxify injection—about three times longer than an average Botox treatment.

What Else Sets Daxxify Apart?

Botox and other neuromodulators contain human serum albumin, which the body synthesizes in the liver. Daxxify, on the other hand, features peptides as its main formula component. Peptides, or amino acids, might be why Daxxify lasts longer than its neuromodulator counterparts.

Additionally, Daxxify doesn’t require refrigeration like Botox (this is also true of other neuromodulators like Xeomin, which has similar cosmetic uses).

RELATED: Botox Is Not Just For Smoothing Foreheads—’Teeth Botox’ Is On The Rise For This Common Issue

While many people would consider longer-lasting effects a good thing, this also makes Daxxify more of a risky choice for first-time treatments. The results of these types of wrinkle treatments vary, resulting in the infamous “botched Botox” looks that have been used as tabloid fodder for decades.  

If your Daxxify treatment causes adverse side effects (2% of users experienced drooping eyelids, while 1% experienced facial asymmetry), you’ll have to wait longer for those symptoms to fade. 

Where Botox Might Have An Edge

In addition to being FDA-approved for cosmetic purposes, Botox can be used as a treatment for many conditions such as chronic migraines, overactive bladder, urinary incontinence, muscle spasms, and even severe underarm sweating. It’s also approved for use on all areas of the face, whereas Daxxify is only approved to smooth frown lines. 

Technically, companies can’t promote unapproved uses for their drugs. However, doctors can practice “off-label” utilization, which is prescribing a drug for purposes not yet approved by the FDA. Some scientists believe Daxxify will be no different.

Where And How Can I Get It?

The process of making Daxxify widely available hasn’t been entirely smooth sailing. Revance experienced a minor setback when an FDA inspection found issues with quality control and the working cell bank, which are the cells containing the active ingredient in a drug. 

RELATED: ‘Hair Botox’ Could Be The Fix For Your Dry, Lifeless Locks

However, Revance clarified in a January 2022 statement that the FDA’s concerns were with the manufacturing facility, not the safety or efficacy of Daxxify itself. And based on the September press release, the company has managed to work through those kinks. It’s currently estimated that Daxxify will hit the market sometime in 2023. 

It’s unclear at the moment how much Daxxify will cost. While this longer-lasting treatment will allow people more time between trips to the dermatologist, the cost of one treatment might be higher than a typical Botox treatment. Botox currently ranges from a couple hundred to a couple thousand dollars depending on where you live. 

If you’re interested in trying Daxxify but you’ve never had an injectable treatment before, it’s recommended to first find a dermatologist you trust and work with them to develop a treatment routine.

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This Is The Best Way To Incorporate Collagen Into Your Routine For Maximum Results https://www.suggest.com/heat-deactivates-collagen-supplements/2709831/ Thu, 22 Dec 2022 22:45:00 +0000 https://www.suggest.com/?p=2709831 a hand mixing collagen powder into a glass of liquid

Collagen supplements are currently all the rage, and proponents declare them to be a veritable fountain of youth. From making your skin, hair, and nails stronger and healthier to keeping your joints in tip-top shape, collagen in powder form seems to be the best way to add it to your diet.

The reason? Some studies have found that our bodies absorb collagen more readily as a powder. But the temperature at which you ingest it can make or break its effectiveness.  

Many people, including some celebrities, add collagen powder to their morning coffee. Turns out, this isn’t the best way to get collagen’s benefits. That’s not to say you can’t add it to coffee, just make sure it’s iced!

How Not To Deactivate Your Collagen

Adding collagen powder to hot coffee, tea, or any other warm beverage is not a good idea. Brooke Russell, an assistant professor of microbiology at Texan A&M University wrote at The Conversation that it’s best to mix collagen with cold beverages to reap the benefits. Russell explained that when collagen is added to anything with heat, its molecule structure melts and any benefits are lessened—and probably negated.

RELATED: Too Much Of This Common Supplement Can Cause Fatigue, Joint Pain, And Even Hair Loss

Collagen powder might dissolve more readily in warm liquids, but no one wants to waste the supplement they paid good money for. So opt for blending it into cold drinks like smoothies, iced coffee, or water.

Consuming collagen along with foods rich in vitamin C, like certain fruits and red peppers, can increase collagen’s effectiveness even more, according to research published in the Orthopedic Journal of Sports Medicine.

Russell also suggests finding a collagen powder that matches your health interests. For example, if you want to improve joint health, collagen type 1 is best. For beautiful skin and luscious hair, collagen type 2 is the best choice. If you’re looking for a powder that does it all, we found an excellent option.

With its yummy chocolate taste, Codeage Multi Collagen Powder makes getting your daily collagen as easy as 1-2-3. And with only one gram of sugar per serving, you won’t have to worry about overindulging.

Codeage Multi Collagen Powder contains all the types of collagen: 1, 2, 3, 5, and 10. Each type plays a vital role, contributing to healthy skin, hair, and nails, as well as joint and bone health. Here’s a quick rundown.

  • Type 1: makes up a majority of the collagen in our bodies and provides structure to skin, ligaments, tendons, and bones.
  • Type 2: this is great for joint support as it is naturally found in elastic cartilage.
  • Type 3: is found in our muscles, organs, and arteries.
  • Type 5: another type that is found in the layers of our skin.
  • Type 10: found in some layers of our skin and hair, as well as in the tissue of the placenta and in the cornea of our eyes.

Codeage’s formula features quality sources for its collagen including grass-fed and pasture-raised hydrolyzed bovine collagen peptides, organic beef bone broth, organic chicken bone broth, wild-caught fish collagen peptides, and eggshell collagen. You’ll also get medium-chain triglycerides (MCT oil) to support energy. It does not contain shellfish, soy, dairy, or gluten.

To avoid clumping, add it to a shaker cup with water. Or, try it with smoothies, iced coffee, cold brew, almond milk, oat milk, or your beverage of choice.

Reviewers Love Codeage Collagen

One shopper described a dramatic difference in their skin, hair, and nails after three weeks. “My skin has a healthy glow and my hair and nail strength/thickness has basically doubled. I have been getting compliments non-stop and notice a serious transformation in my complexion,” they said.

Another reviewer shared, “I have been using for 2.5 weeks and I have seen a huge difference in my hair, skin, energy, joints and muscle recovery!”

Collagen production decreases as we age, but with Codeage Multi Collagen Powder, you can easily add this vital protein back into your system. Just be sure to add it to a cold or room temp liquid!

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Why Shoppers Are Ditching Their Foundation For This SPF-Infused Brightening Serum Tint https://www.suggest.com/tula-sunscreen-skin-tint-overview/2709865/ Thu, 22 Dec 2022 12:45:00 +0000 https://www.suggest.com/?p=2709865 Side-by-side images of a model wearing the Tula Serum Skin Tinted Sunscreen and dollops of the skin tint in a variety of skin tones

During the hottest summer months, your SPF-infused moisturizer or makeup probably won’t cut it in the sun protection department, especially if you’re sweating profusely or spending time out in the sun or in the water.

But during the winter, we oftentimes let our guard drop regarding sun safety. We get it; it can be hard to motivate ourselves to apply sunscreen when we’re hardly getting any sun. Even with the minimal sun exposure most of us get in the colder months, we still need to protect our skin.

That’s why we’re excited about this multifaceted product from TULA that acts as a skin tint, sun protectant, and serum.

It’ll work beautifully to add a glow to the dull, dry skin many of us experience in winter, and you won’t have to worry about also applying a regular sunscreen! Oh, and did we mention it comes in 30 shades and a variety of undertones?

RELATED: Shoppers Love This Luxury Neck And Décolleté Cream That Helps Lift And Tighten Crepey Skin

Dr. Roshini Raj is a practicing gastroenterologist and the founder of TULA. After discovering the internal benefits of probiotics, she began to research the external benefits too. She founded TULA (which means “balance” in Sanskrit) in 2014 with the goal of helping women feel more confident in their skin.

The Brightening Serum Skin Tint with SPF 30 is TULA’s latest product that combines the company’s proprietary blend of prebiotic and probiotic extracts with other effective ingredients.

This lightweight skin tint provides several benefits, starting with its ability to help even out your skin tone while providing it with broad spectrum SPF 30 sun protection, making it the perfect everyday complexion product. It’s suitable for all skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin, and it’s non-comedogenic, so it won’t clog your pores. Plus it’ll provide light-to-medium buildable coverage that won’t make your skin look cakey.

The ingredients include the Rainbow Seabright™ Elixir (seriously, how cool does that sound?). This combo of niacinamide and rainbow seaweed helps brighten the skin while protecting it from environmental damage.

Other notable ingredients include hyaluronic acid and ceramides for hydration along with collagen to improve the look of wrinkles. And of course, the S6Pro Complex™ (the brand’s aforementioned prebiotic/probiotic blend) helps improve the skin’s look and feel by improving its smoothness and balance.

As TULA is primarily a skincare brand, you can rest assured knowing their tinted sunscreen is formulated without any of the bad stuff—you won’t find any parabens, sulfates, phthalates, or fragrance in their products.

With overwhelmingly positive reviews, this SPF skin tint is likely on its way to becoming a bestseller. One TULA customer said, “This product is simply amazing. Love how it goes on for an effortless look. I want a supersized version! It’s basically replaced my everyday foundation routine at this point! Obsessed.”

Although this is sure to be a hero product for any skin type this time of year, we’re certain you’ll love it enough to use it all year long.

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Even Shoppers With Sensitive Skin Love This Lifting Collagen Cream That Delivers Unbelievable Results https://www.suggest.com/babor-lifting-collagen-cream-overview/2708322/ Sat, 17 Dec 2022 20:45:00 +0000 https://www.suggest.com/?p=2708322 Cosmetic cream smeared in the shape of a heart on a pastel pink background

German brand Babor has been in the skincare game for more than 60 years. A family-owned company, the brand is backed by aestheticians, tons of research, and a growing sustainability effort. Basically, they know a thing or two about what it takes to make gentle, sustainable, and effective products.

The brand’s Lifting Collagen Cream is no exception. From the clinical-grade ingredients to the company’s environmental commitment, this cream is an all-around winner that will make you feel good in more ways than one.

We’ve told you about their skin barrier protectant, the highly-rated Multi-Vitamin Ampoule Serum. Babor’s concentrated serums are perfect for intensive, targeted treatment. For everyday use, though, the Lifting Collagen Cream is both hydrating and plumping.

This luscious cream hydrates skin while reducing the look of wrinkles and fine lines. Formulated with active ingredients including hyaluronic acid, squalane, and marine collagen, it promises to improve skin’s firmness and elasticity.

Marine collagen, specifically, reduces the look and depth of wrinkles while enhancing skin’s appearance. Hyaluronic acid and squalane deliver a one-two punch of hydration that also helps soothe irritated skin, boost moisture content, and reinforce the skin barrier. Finally, the addition of tripeptides complex plays a key role in helping to firm the skin.

While some anti-aging products can be irritating, reviewers say the cream is even great for those with sensitive skin.

One customer, in particular, was excited about the cream’s soothing benefits. “This was my first time [trying] the Babor brand and I have been loving this cream,” they wrote. “It’s been a great moisturizer and has a calming effect on my skin. My skin definitely looks more hydrated and even.”

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Many reviewers said the cream was light and non-greasy, had a subtle pleasant scent, and was great for even super-dry skin.

“I have used many BABOR products for many years and none of them have ever done me wrong. I have extremely dry skin and this lifting collagen cream goes on light, feels like whipped butter going on, and locks in moisture that lasts all day,” one reviewer noted. “Cannot recommend this product enough.”

If you’re in the market for a new moisturizer, the Lifting Collagen Cream is a worthy investment and an excellent way to treat yourself.

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Go Ahead And Cry A River, This Brightening Eye Cream Will Hide The Evidence (And It’s Under $15) https://www.suggest.com/no7-radiance-roll-and-glow-eye-cream-review/2708039/ Wed, 14 Dec 2022 21:45:00 +0000 https://www.suggest.com/?p=2708039 No7 radiance+ roll & glow eye cream surrounded by orange slices

Some people wear their hearts on their sleeves; I tend to wear them on my face. No matter what my emotion is—indifference, joy, or sadness—it’s practically plastered all over my expression. And this is especially true when it comes to crying. 

I’ve learned the hard way that my eyes are particularly sensitive to the side effects of crying. (You know the whole ‘cute while crying’ trend? This isn’t it.) When I cry, my entire eye area is affected—my eyelids, under eyes, and lash lines swell and redden to near-anaphylaxis-proportions and stay that way for as long as 24 hours. 

A consequence of being highly sensitive, emotional, and a bit dramatic lends itself to my fair share of crying seshes, both good and bad. Luckily, this means I’ve put multiple eye creams to the test, and one drugstore pick has come out on top every time.

Bawl On A Budget With This Drugstore Gem

Post-crying swelling requires an eye cream formula that not only brightens but also reduces inflammation and redness. Any irritating ingredients will only cause more tears and exacerbate the problem. (Can you tell I’ve had a few rounds of trial and error?) 

So far, the best product I’ve found for the job is No7 Radiance+ Roll & Glow Eye Cream. No7 has been around for decades, offering high-quality skincare at affordable prices.

No7’s Radiance+ eye cream is a roll-on formula with a cooling tri-ball applicator that helps soothe the skin as the ingredients work their magic. Vitamin C and caffeine reduce puffiness, dark circles, and fine lines. Meanwhile, color-correcting pigments offer an added layer of coverage to brighten the skin.

The Power Of Vitamin C And Caffeine

I typically use the eye cream after my regular cleanser-moisturizer-sunscreen routine. The tri-ball applicator is like a miniature eye socket massage. And while I don’t typically store my eye creams in a fridge (although I have been eyeing these countertop cosmetic fridges because look at them), I’m sure doing so would make applying this product even more refreshing. 

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After applying in short strokes to my under eyes and eyelids, I lightly blend the product into my skin with my fingertips. The eye cream’s tint doesn’t color the skin very noticeably—I’m usually around a medium in a foundation shade, and all it does for my skin is gently brighten the dark, purplish undertones in my eye bags. Overall, the product dries matte with no sticky or oily finish.

It takes around 30-45 minutes for the eye cream to fully reduce the swelling around my eyes, but when it does, it feels nothing short of magical. I’ve revived my eyes in under an hour after a late-night cry sesh left me looking like my face had been stung by bees. And my go-to eye makeup (a dab of concealer, gel eyeliner, and mascara) goes on smoothly with no running, blending, or fading. 

I have no shame in my crying game, but I don’t love not being able to open my eyes the next day. And thanks to No7’s Radiance+ Roll & Glow eye cream, that’s no longer a problem. So, go ahead and let it all out. This eye cream will help keep it under wraps.

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Having Non-Invasive ‘Work’ Done Over The Holidays? You Need This Skin Recovery Set https://www.suggest.com/skinceuticals-post-procedure-set-overview/2702143/ Thu, 08 Dec 2022 12:35:00 +0000 https://www.suggest.com/?p=2702143 SkinCeuticals Post-Procedure Set

The holidays are fast approaching, which means many of us will be catching up on appointments, obligations, and (hopefully) some much-needed rest in the next few weeks. If non-invasive cosmetic work like laser or light therapy is on your docket this holiday break, then you need to check out SkinCeuticals’ comprehensive Post-Procedure Set

Even minimally invasive procedures can leave the skin tender and more prone to external damage. SkinCeuticals, a brand known for its focus on skin science, designed this high-quality skincare set specifically to help aid skin recovery using potent blends of antioxidants, botanical extracts, and mineral barrier protection. 

SkinCeuticals’ Post-Procedure Set includes their antioxidant serum, calming face mask, and broad-spectrum sunscreen which offer extra protection as your skin rejuvenates and heals. You can purchase each item separately or save $40 when buying all three as part of the set.

Step 1: Antioxidant-Rich Serum

The first step of SkinCeuticals’ Post-Procedure regimen is its C E Ferulic Serum. The name comes from its powerful trio of antioxidants: 15% pure vitamin C, 1% Vitamin E, and 0.5% ferulic acid. 

This combination protects against environmental damage caused by free radicals that can contribute to premature lines, wrinkles, sagging, and discoloration. The serum defends the skin against UVA/UVB rays, ozone pollution, and diesel engine exhaust by up to 41%. This protection is particularly helpful for vulnerable post-procedure skin. 

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The C E Ferulic Serum stays active on your skin for up to 72 hours, which means your dollars go even further with this heavy-hitting product. It’s also paraben-free and suitable for all skin types.

Step 2: Mineral Barrier Protection

No skincare regimen is complete without sunscreen, but not all brands are as kind to post-procedure skin as this one. The Physical UV Defense SPF 30 sunscreen was formulated for highly sensitive or very dry skin, combining barrier repair and broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection into one high-quality product. 

Physical UV Defense SPF 30 contains zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, providing all-day hydration. The formula also contains artemia salina, a plankton extract for extra photoprotection, plus UV and heat stress resistance. This paraben- and fragrance-free sunscreen is ideal for daily use.

Step 3: Botanicals And Moisturizers

Finally, SkinCeuticals’ Phyto Corrective Masque contains a highly concentrated blend of botanical extracts (cucumber, thyme, and olive), dipeptide, and hyaluronic acid. The ultra-moisturizing formula soothes the skin, cooling on contact and restoring natural radiance and smoothness. 

The Phyto Corrective Masque has been tested post-procedure to reduce visual redness and discomfort. But its intense moisturizing power makes this mask a great addition to your skincare routine year-round, particularly after workouts, sun exposure, or other exposure to high temperatures. 

In the evening, generously apply the Phyto Corrective Masque to the face, chest, or neck. The mask can be used as either a leave-on or rinse-off treatment. Alternatively, you can use the Phyto Corrective Masque as an ultra-soothing overnight facial treatment.

Post-Procedure Or Preventative Upkeep

While the SkinCeuticals set was designed for sensitive, post-procedure skin, these products can be used anytime you want extra protection for your skin. This could be after a sunburn (looking at you, over-eager-beach-days over the holiday break), an increase in inflammation, or exposure to other environmental stressors. 

One happy SkinCeuticals reviewer wrote that after using the products for years, they’ve found “it really does work wonders. I use on my face, neck, and chest several times a week. It heals and prevents scarring from occasional breakouts. Keeps skin tone even, and I thought I’d have more wrinkles at 57.”

Another user commented on the Phyto Masque specifically, stating, “I put it on before bed and wake up, and my frown line between my brows magically irons away. I’m so happy with the results of this product I just purchased my second jar.”

SkinCeuticals provides dermatologist-approved skincare with high-quality, clinically tested formulas. Whether you’re recovering from a holiday laser treatment, a winter vacation sunburn, or have naturally sensitive skin, the SkinCeuticals Post-Procedure Set can speed healing and restore your skin’s natural glow, moisture, and radiance.

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This Cult-Favorite Skincare Brand’s Holiday-Ready Gift Sets Feature Coveted Best Sellers At A Fraction Of The Retail Cost https://www.suggest.com/augustinus-bader-gift-collection-overview/2694656/ Fri, 02 Dec 2022 16:45:00 +0000 https://www.suggest.com/?p=2694656 Augustinus Bader moisturizers

When it comes to the Rolls-Royce of skincare, Augustinus Bader is hard to beat. Found on the vanities of just about every A-list celebrity out there (including Jennifer Aniston, Victoria Beckham, and Naomi Campbell, to name a few), this luxury skincare brand has earned a reputation for essentially being magic in a bottle.

Thanks to the incredible research conducted by Professor Augustinus Bader, a biomedical scientist with a focus on stem cell biology and regenerative medicine, AB’s flagship products feature their patented TFC8® (aka Trigger Factor Complex) technology. This key combination of ingredients helps to guide the cells in our skin and hair for optimal renewal. From wrinkles to hyperpigmentation to brittle strands, Augustinus Bader’s products are designed to heal, nourish, and protect.

Sometimes you really get what you pay for, and luckily there hasn’t been a better time to try (or gift) these revolutionary products. Just in time for the holiday season, Augustinus Bader has curated their best-selling products in both trial and full-sized gift sets. Cheaper than buying a la carte, these fan-favorite collections are sure to become a new favorite for you or a loved one.

The Augustinus Bader Trial Edit is the perfect collection for those new to the world of AB products. And if you don’t know your giftee’s preferred beauty routine, this set is also a wonderful way to give them multiple skincare options without a huge commitment. 

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The AB Trial Edit contains the Cream Cleansing Gel, a hard-working (but gentle) cleanser that removes dirt and impurities without stripping the skin. The Essence is AB’s toner, which purifies, exfoliates, and shrinks the appearance of pores to reveal smoother, softer, and more vibrant skin.

The AB Trial Edit also features The Eye Cream, a potent formula that reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, under-eye puffiness, and dark circles. But the real star of this set is The Rich Cream, AB’s cult-favorite product that is clinically proven to reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation. 

The AB Trial Edit costs $270 but is a $442 value, which means you can get one for both you and your loved one for close to the retail price of one.

The Hand & Lip Kit is a fantastic option for giftees who are already pretty set in their skincare routine but would enjoy trying a few luxury products on top of it. Plus, what better time to moisturize our hands and lips than in the wintertime, a.k.a. chapped lips and dry hand season?

The Hand & Lip Kit features a deeply moisturizing Hand Treatment that leaves hands feeling soft, supple, and hydrated. It’s the perfect protective barrier against cold, pollution, and other environmental stressors. The Lip Balm provides the same intense moisture, leaving lips appearing plumper, smoother, and more supple.

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This kit also features both The Cream and The Rich Cream, so your giftees (or you) can decide which level of moisture you prefer. Both creams come in a sachet, which is the perfect trial size to find your ideal AB moisturizer. And, of course, the whole kit is wrapped up in a sleek, royal blue Augustinus Bader zip bag.

Finally, give the gift that keeps on giving with Victoria Beckham by Augustinus Bader’s Cell Rejuvenating Power Serum Sample Set. The Power Serum is a potent 360º treatment that addresses the appearance of past skin damage and strengthens the skin’s barrier to prevent future damage.

It also defends against the effects of digital blue light damage (hi, phone, computer, and tablet screens), indoor and outdoor pollution, and environmental stress. The serum reduces the appearance of pores, fine lines, and wrinkles and provides a vibrant, healthy glow. And thanks to the convenient set of six sample sizes, you can either gift someone the whole set or split it up amongst multiple friends—and yourself.

One hundred percent of Power Serum users analyzed saw a significant improvement in their skin’s barrier function after just one use. The holidays can be stressful, but with this heavy-hitting serum, you can at least look like you’re cool, calm, and collected. 

Augustinus Bader’s gift set collection also includes hair treatments, full-size products, and more. So, this year, treat yourself—and your loved ones—to rich, luxurious beauty products that make you feel like royalty without spending like one.

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Not Sure What Products To Use For Your Mature Skin? Meet The Female-Founded Brand Dedicated To Making Skincare Easy https://www.suggest.com/fig-1-beauty-mature-skincare-products/2694962/ Thu, 01 Dec 2022 12:45:00 +0000 https://www.suggest.com/?p=2694962 A smiling woman applying face cream

Despite many skincare brands touting positivity and inclusivity, navigating the skincare world can often feel like you’re on a bumpy, nameless road without a map. Those with directions are either too elusive or expensive to offer any real directional help. So you remain stuck in the dark, trying to find what works best for your skin and your budget. 

Fig.1 Beauty wants to change that. Made up of board-certified dermatologists, cosmetic chemists, estheticians, and entrepreneurs, the Fig.1 Beauty community seeks to demystify and democratize skincare, making skin health achievable for everyone. (And they do mean everyone—not just A-list celebs and the wealthy.)

From free consultations to eco-friendly, refillable products, Fig.1 Beauty is working hard to change the skincare world for the better.

First Up: Free Consultations

One of the first things that caught our eye about Fig.1 Beauty was its free consultation offering. Unlike other in-office consultations that can cost upwards of $150, Fig.1 Beauty’s consultation is completely free and online, making it easy to figure out the best products for your regimen without ever leaving your home. 

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Simply answer a few basic questions about your age, skin concerns, and current skincare routine. A Fig.1 esthetician will then use this data to create a custom routine that preserves as many of your current products as possible in an effort to reduce waste—because sometimes you only need a few new products, not an entirely new routine.

Online consultations are a great way to learn more about your skin and Fig.1’s products. But you can also navigate their inventory via categories that focus on specific skin traits such as acne-prone, balanced, dry, mature, oily, pregnant, and sensitive. Here are some of our favorite Fig.1 products for mature skin.

Fig.1’s powerful niacinamide treatment is like a spa-day in a bottle. The formula, packed with restorative ions and B vitamins, is designed to soothe stressed, red skin and brighten the complexion, aiding in a more even skin tone.

Other notable ingredients include postbiotic ferments, which nourish skin and support a balanced microbiome that is important for keeping skin glowing and youthful. The combination of copper, magnesium, and zinc all help the skin heal, helping cell turnover and skin renewal for a fresh complexion.

While niacinamide revitalizes the skin from the inside out, glycolic acid does the same from the outside in. Glycolic acid is a type of alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from sugar cane. It gently exfoliates the skin, removing dead skin cells to reveal a happy, glowing complexion.

In addition to 4% glycolic acid, Fig.1’s Glycolic Glow Treatment contains PHAs and ultra-hydrating squalane to prevent the redness or irritation that can often occur with exfoliation. The formula is a milky emulsion that has been dermatologist- and allergy-tested on all skin tones and types. This is an excellent option for those with sensitive skin who still want to exfoliate or for exfoliating pros looking for a new, gentler alternative.

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The rejuvenating effects of retinol have long been praised and for good reason. However, retinol can also be abrasive if used incorrectly or on sensitive skinFig.1’s Retinol Night Cream No. 1 utilizes the restorative power of retinol and bioactive peptides to support collagen production, thereby reducing wrinkles and fine lines.

To avoid any negative side effects, Fig.1 prides itself on being totally transparent about the slow-release encapsulation process, their clinical trials, and the amount of retinol in its products (this one contains 0.15%). Fig.1 also has two other retinol products, each with higher levels of retinol, so you can find the one that suits you best without facing the irritated, red-faced consequences.

Fig.1’s Eco-Friendly Promise

The end result is important, but so is the packaging and manufacturing process. Fig.1 has dedicated itself to creating skincare that’s good for us and the planet. One such effort involves offering refillable cartridges you can use with your original glass bottle packaging. 

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We’ve never seen a beauty brand like Fig.1 before—specifically, one dedicated to making skincare more accessible rather than exclusive. Every product is clinically tested to be highly effective, yet Fig.1 keeps their prices reasonably affordable. As stated on its website, Fig.1 makes “high-performance skincare at value pricing.”

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Shoppers Love This Luxury Neck And Décolleté Cream That Helps Lift And Tighten Crepey Skin https://www.suggest.com/strivectin-tightening-neck-cream-overview/2691634/ Sun, 27 Nov 2022 20:15:00 +0000 https://www.suggest.com/?p=2691634 Middle-aged woman applying neck cream

We often focus the bulk of our daily skincare routines on our faces. But as we age, the delicate skin of our neck and décolleté deserve some love too.

The skin on these areas is actually finer than the skin on the face and is usually the first part of our bodies to show signs of aging. The neck and its 26 muscles are responsible for performing numerous everyday functions—breathing, chewing, stabilizing the head, and, of course, tilting the head down so we can look at our texts.

All that constant movement does a number on the neck and upper chest. With time, wrinkles and sagginess will start to develop. There’s also the issue of the neck having fewer sebaceous glands than the face, which are essential for maintaining the skin’s natural hydration by secreting sebum.

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Without an abundance of this natural emollient, the skin dries out more quickly and is more vulnerable to sun rays, wind, cold, and other elements. As a result, your neck and décolleté will likely be the first place that lines, wrinkles, welts, and pigment spots appear on your aging skin.

The good news is there are multiple products on the market that address this universal sign of aging. One to consider is StriVectin’s TL Advanced™ Tightening Neck Cream, made specifically for your neck and décolleté.

This best-selling luxury cream is a wrinkle and brightening treatment made with peptides, hyaluronic acid, and a ceramide blend that features StriVectin’s “breakthrough Gravitite-CF Lifting Complex.” The formula claims to improve skin elasticity, provide visible lift, correct the look of uneven tone and texture, and smooth the appearance of neck lines and sagging.

In clinical testing reported by StriVectin, 90% of participants showed tighter, more lifted skin and improvement in horizontal lines and crepiness, while 92% showed more even skin tone on the neck and décolleté after using the TL Advanced™ Tightening Neck Cream Plus for eight weeks.

Many shoppers seem to agree.

“I’m about to be 45 and noticed some weird [crepey] skin in the middle of my neck—it was super noticeable when I ate or drank—so I became really embarrassed to meet people for lunch,” one reviewer wrote. “I ordered this cream 30 days ago and the results are astonishing.”

“I’ve been using this neck cream for a few years now. When I first started using it I thought it was just like any other neck cream. Little did I know how effective it would be,” another reviewer noted. “My neck had become dark with rings around it. After [a] few weeks of use, I looked in the mirror and the darkness was gone and the rings were reduced. I will not be without this neck cream.”

To incorporate the TL Advanced™ Tightening Neck Cream Plus into your skincare routine, StriVectin recommends applying a thin layer twice a day to clean skin. Gently massage in an upward motion around the jawline and on the neck, and in a circular motion into the décolleté.

While the cream does come with a hefty price tag, it is important to note StriVectin is an award-winning skincare brand that prides itself on science-backed solutions for changing and aging skin.

In particular, StriVectin’s prized achievement is its patented NIA-114™ technology, which is an optimized form of niacin. Also known as vitamin B3, niacin is a key compound the body uses to keep the skin healthy. The brand also pledges to use independent clinical testing for all its finished formulas.

It is precisely this research and dedication to proven products that have propelled the brand into one many shoppers know and trust. And with their TL Advanced™ Tightening Neck Cream Plus, it just might be the part of your skincare routine you’ve been missing.

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This Acne-Fighting Skin Ingredient Also Helps Reduce The Appearance Of Fine Lines And Promotes Collagen Growth https://www.suggest.com/salicylic-acid-for-mature-skin/2689013/ Sun, 27 Nov 2022 18:45:00 +0000 https://www.suggest.com/?p=2689013 a middle aged woman with long straight hair smiling

Most of us are probably familiar with salicylic acid from our youth as a common acne-fighting ingredient. In your 40s, salicylic acid might not be as prominent in your daily skincare routines as it used to be—even though hormonal acne is very much a thing in midlife.

But salicylic acid does much more than fight acne. Here’s why you should make sure it’s listed in your arsenal of products in midlife.

A Look At Salicylic Acid’s Anti-Aging Benefits

Salicylic acid is a colorless, organic compound that is a common ingredient in face washes, gels, and creams because of its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. It is also known as a powerful acne-fighting ingredient for its ability to break down oils, like sebum, and bonds between dead skin cells that lead to clogged pores and eventually breakouts.

It is precisely this ability to break the bonds between dead skin cells that makes salicylic acid a powerful exfoliant. In fact, many chemical peels performed by dermatologists can contain a salicylic acid concentration of up to 50%. And as is well documented, exfoliation is an important step for helping to increase cell turnover and resurface the skin. The result, if done correctly, is a fading of dark spots as well as softening of fine lines and wrinkles.

Additionally, salicylic acid is part of the Beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) family. Similar to Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), multiple studies have shown BHAs can aid in collagen synthesis as well as the firming of the skin. BHAs have also been shown to be less irritating to the skin than AHAs.

How To Incorporate Salicylic Acid Into Your Mature Skincare Routine

No skincare product is one-size-fits-all. We all have different skin types, and salicylic acid is known for working best on oily or combination skin. It’s also effective on normal skin that has the occasional breakout.

If you have dry or sensitive skin, you should avoid salicylic acid because it could agitate your pores. If you’re allergic to aspirin, you should also keep salicylic acid out of your skincare routine because it’s in the same family as the pain reliever. And you should never use it on irritated or sunburned skin.

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If you have a breakout of hormonal acne, using salicylic acid spot treatments before you go to bed can help—and possibly eliminate the pimples—by the time you wake up, depending on the severity of the breakout.

Skincare products with salicylic acid should be used cautiously, especially at first. The ingredient can cause rashes, skin irritation, and peeling. In extremely rare cases, it can cause serious allergic reactions. So it’s best to start using it every other day and work your way up to daily or twice per day. 

Finally, use just one salicylic acid product at a time. Everything else in your daily routine—cleanser, moisturizer, sunscreen—should be gentle and soothing.

This gentle, non-abrasive leave-on exfoliator will dramatically improve your skin’s texture to give you that radiant, youthful, even-toned skin we all want. It goes deep into the pores to remove dirt, oil, and debris. It also sheds dead skin cells and soothes redness, revealing a healthier complexion.

This anti-aging clay face mask will help clear breakouts while minimizing the premature signs of aging. It will detoxify your skin and clear up any pore congestion, soothe aggravation that breakouts can bring, and even out the skin tone.

Get rid of age spots and uneven skin tone with this anti-aging face serum made with salicylic acid, pure vitamin C, and a soothing peptide known as neurosensine. Just three or four drops each morning on the face and neck will visibly boost the skin’s radiance while reducing the look of wrinkles and refining skin texture.

Holiday Shopping Suggestions

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Stumped On A Gift For Her? These Advanced Skincare Tools From FOREO Are Sure To Impress https://www.suggest.com/foreo-product-roundup/2695137/ Wed, 23 Nov 2022 17:45:00 +0000 https://www.suggest.com/?p=2695137 Various FOREO products

We use technology to advance our lives every day—from daily tasks to work to maintaining physical fitness, tech helps us grow and progress. Skincare should certainly be no exception, which is why Swedish brand FOREO has dedicated itself to creating revolutionary, spa-quality skin care tech for at-home use. 

After trying this celeb-loved brand ourselves, we can see why it’s gained such a devoted following. From deep cleansing to rejuvenating microcurrent therapy, FOREO brings the spa to your bathroom for a fraction of the cost. 

There has never been a better time to treat yourself or cross a name off your holiday gift lists with these incredible products. 

LUNA™ 3: An Unparalleled Cleansing Experience

Washcloths—and our hands, for that matter—are covered in thousands of germs, which can spread over our faces when we cleanse. The FOREO LUNA™ 3 eradicates this problem. The velvety soft silicone facial cleansing device is bacteria-resistant and 35x more hygienic than nylon brushes.

But it doesn’t just remove 99.5% of dirt and oil from your skin. It also relaxes facial muscles with low-frequency pulsations, smoothing the appearance of fine lines for a firmer complexion. Additionally, the LUNA™ 3’s silicone touchpoints gently exfoliate dead skin cells while remaining non-abrasive on the skin.

The LUNA™ 3 offers ultra-deep facial cleansing for acne prevention, exfoliation for brighter skin, and pulsating therapy to reduce fine lines and wrinkles. Try to see a plain old washcloth do that.

Bear™: Effortless Facial Fitness

While “facial fitness” might bring flashbacks of ridiculous face exercise VHSes of yore, the FOREO BEAR™ microcurrent facial device is something else entirely. This small, handheld device uses microcurrent technology to energize and firm all 69 muscles of the face and neck. This helps promote smooth, glowy skin and reduce wrinkles.

Just like exercising our bodies can firm and tone our physique, the BEAR’s™ microcurrents kickstart a full-on face workout. (Except this time, there’s no need to make absurd faces at your TV for 45 minutes.) A safe and effective Anti-Shock System™ automatically adjusts the microcurrent intensity to your skin, ensuring just the right amount of microcurrent—and nothing more. 

Suggest editor Kristen Phillipkoski recently tried the BEAR™ and saw instant results. “My left eyebrow has been alarmingly higher than my right,” she wrote in her review. “When I used the BEAR™ on my forehead, I strategically did one swipe above my left eyebrow and about four above my right. And by George, I swear my brows look more even.”

UFO™ 2: 5-In-1 Spa Facial

In a perfect world, going to the spa would be affordable, quick, and convenient. But a perfect world, this is not, and that’s where FOREO’s UFO™ 2 comes in. This revolutionary device delivers five high-quality facial treatments in one: thermo-therapy, cryo-therapy, LED light therapy, T-Sonic™ pulsations, and moisture renewal. 

The FOREO UFO™ 2 is a supercharged facial device that offers countless benefits. First, the UFO™ 2 increases skin moisture levels by 126% in just two minutes. T-Sonic™ massage increases microcirculation for glowy skin, while cool cryo-therapy reduces puffiness and fine lines. 

You can create a customized routine or use pre-programmed FOREO treatments to achieve firmer, smoother, brighter-looking skin after just one use—just like our editor Kristen did when she tried out this powerful device herself. “My face felt and looked lifted, and my skin was super soft,” she wrote. “My makeup went on beautifully afterward.”

ISSA™ 3: Complete Oral Care

FOREO isn’t just about skincare—the premium beauty and wellness brand also makes eye and oral care products. One such product is the ISSA™ 3, the world’s first silicone sonic toothbrush (the most significant advance in oral care in 70 years). The unique toothbrush features medical-grade silicone and PBT polymer bristles and a distinct hybrid brush head.

These features make the ISSA™ 3 up to 10,000x more hygienic than regular nylon toothbrushes. It’s powered by Sonic Pulse technology to break up plaque—around 30% more than manual toothbrushes—and gently massage the gums. Sixteen customizable settings ensure you’re getting the best brushing experience possible. 

Moreover, the ISSA™ 3 lasts a whopping 365 days on one charge—yeah, the whole year. The brush head also lasts up to six months before it needs to be replaced, about twice as long as other toothbrushes. The ISSA™ 3 offers a complete oral care experience, with 95% of users reporting smoother, more polished teeth after the first use.

Find Your Perfect FOREO Treatment

When it comes to skin, eye, and oral care, you get what you pay for. And while you shouldn’t have to settle for low-grade, ineffective products, you shouldn’t have to break the bank with multiple trips to the spa or aesthetician every year either. With FOREO, you’re making a one-time investment for at-home spa treatments that will last you years.

Whether you’re looking to treat hormonal acne, reduce wrinkles, depuff and revive tired eyes, or achieve optimal oral health, FOREO has the perfect solution for your needs.

After one use, you’ll likely be a FOREO convert just like us.

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Gen Z Is Taping Their Faces At Night To Prevent Wrinkles, But Does It Work? https://www.suggest.com/does-face-taping-work/2688706/ Tue, 15 Nov 2022 21:15:00 +0000 https://www.suggest.com/?p=2688706 a young woman places pink face tape on her cheeks, chin and forehead

Gen Z seems determined to never age, as evidenced by the multitudes of skincare trends and tips that members of the youthful generation spread on TikTok. One of the most recent is face taping to prevent wrinkles—which at first blush seems like a good idea that produces fast results.

Doctors are less enthusiastic and say the long-term impacts of face taping could outweigh the potential benefits. So, should you try it?

What Is Face Taping?

Face taping is an anti-aging skincare trend that’s been popular on social media in recent months with Gen Z, but Gen X has actually been doing it for quite a while. If you’re Gen Z, you apply pieces of medical or Kinesio tape to strategic areas of your face without stretching it. If you’re Gen X, you use a product like Smoothies or Frownies, which are products created specifically for this purpose.

Wearing the tape overnight seems to prevent the formation of fine lines and wrinkles. The most popular areas of the face to apply the tape are the forehead and around the eyes where “crows’ feet” typically appear.

RELATED: New ‘Skin Cycling’ TikTok Trend Is Dermatologist-Backed But Comes With A Caveat For Menopausal Women

TikToker The Aussie Rapunzel recorded her progress over an entire week of face taping every night, and she saw clear results by day four. She applied the tape to her forehead, and the fine lines were gone by the end of the week. But, she found it more difficult to lift her eyebrows after trying the technique because she said her forehead felt “paralyzed.”

@theaussierapunzel

I didn’t think it would work 🤯 trying the face taping trend! #beauty #skincare #fyp

♬ Hits 2021 (Mashup) – Trinix

What Do Experts Say?

Some doctors say that the practice of face taping can cause skin irritation and result in more visible signs of aging in the long term. The technique is more appropriate for instant results that will last a day or two, but it shouldn’t be a part of your daily skincare routine, Dr. Michael Horn, a board-certified plastic surgeon based in Illinois, told Shape.

He claims the tape adds resistance to your facial muscles, which in turn is training them to work harder and become stronger. That, he said, can make lines and wrinkles appear even faster.

That said, it could be argued that dermatologists and plastic surgeons who are often interviewed as expert sources have a conflict of interest—perhaps they’d rather you pay for their services than use a cheap, over-the-counter hack.

And while they may not have M.D.s, many influencers swear by face tape products. Gen X influencer Samantha from Stung By Samantha makes a pretty compelling case for Frownies, which she told us she’s been using nightly for about a decade.

She doesn’t use botox, and she said her 11s (the vertical lines that tend to appear between your eyebrows as you get older) have disappeared thanks to Frownies.

The choice is yours: try face taping like Gen Z, use a product like Frownies like Gen X, or go another route altogether and use sunscreen and retinol to smooth your skin.

Frownies are Stung By Samantha’s go-to, and while some reviewers found them uncomfortable, others said they work. But they do require continued use—no magic bullets here.

Our lifestyle managing editor swears by Smoothies for her 11s. They’re clear and a little more pliable than Frownies. They also come in various shapes.

If you’d rather forego the taping, reduce the look of fine lines and wrinkles with CeraVe Anti Aging Retinol Serum. This lightweight serum will improve the skin’s texture and make it more radiant while retaining its natural moisture.

During the day, try EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46 for your go-to sunscreen. It’s a sensitive skin sunscreen that is unscented, lightweight, silky, and sheer—leaving no white cast. It will give your face a healthy glow and is formulated with hyaluronic acid to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

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My Face Felt And Looked Lifted Thanks To This Advanced Multi-Technology Skincare Tool https://www.suggest.com/foreo-ufo-2-review/2690930/ Tue, 15 Nov 2022 18:45:00 +0000 https://www.suggest.com/?p=2690930 A woman lounges on a sofa using a FOREO UFO 2

There’s no dearth of skincare devices on the market, each with its specific technologies and functions—the options can be overwhelming.

So I’m very excited to share that I’ve found a single tool that has it all: the FOREO UFO 2. This supercharged facial treatment device includes the entire spectrum of LED, thermo and cryotherapy, T- sonic pulsations, plus masking (one of my favorite parts). 

All that, and the FOREO UFO 2 gets the job done in two minutes or less. 

The most striking benefit I noticed after using the UFO 2 with FOREO’s Make My Day Power Activated Mask was the incredible hydration. My face also felt and looked lifted, and my skin was super soft. My makeup went on beautifully afterward.

Don’t just take it from me: Third-party clinical trials showed that the FOREO UFO 2 provided immediate and long-lasting hydration, increasing moisture levels by 126% following a two-minute treatment—and it lasted for up to 6 hours 

That lifted feeling I experienced comes from FOREO’s T-Sonic massage (more on that below). In third-party consumer testing, users reported visible results after just one use. 

Users in third-party consumer trials also reported the same softness I experienced—78% said they noticed softer skin and said their skin looked more supple and was perfectly primed for makeup. 

Four Technologies In One Device

As I mentioned before, the UFO 2 incorporates four technologies in one package (mine is black and gold—super chic). The therapies include thermo-therapy, cryotherapy, LED light therapy, and T-Sonic massage. Here’s the breakdown of how they each work to make your skin feel as smooth as glass. 

1. Thermo-Therapy

Now that the weather is getting chillier, I found the gentle heat delivered by the UFO 2 to be so comforting. Besides feeling really lovely, the gentle heat increases blood flow in the skin, which facilitates the delivery of oxygen and nutrients through blood vessels. FOREO said this process helps regrow damaged tissue, stimulates fibroblasts, and encourages lymphatic drainage.

What that means for your face is more radiance, deeper absorption of mask ingredients, relaxation of the face and neck muscles, and it even loosens sebum on the skin’s surface.

2. Cryotherapy

Cold temperatures can also be healing and rejuvenating, and that’s where the cryotherapy function comes in. Cold causes the blood vessels to contract and tighten. When the blood vessels return to normal, circulation is improved. Cryofacials can stimulate collagen production, and the more collagen you have, the more elasticity you have.

After using the cool setting on the UFO 2, my skin felt less puffy, less red, a bit lifted, and more radiant overall.

editor Kristen Philipkoski tests the FOREO UFO 2
(Kristen Philipkoski)

3. LED Light Therapy

Using different light wavelengths was originally developed by NASA to grow plants on shuttle missions. It later showed utility in wound healing, and now aestheticians use it to regenerate skin, treat acne, and many other applications. The device produces every type of LED light, and each one has its own unique benefits.

For example, red light stimulates collagen production, blue light mitigates inflamed acne, and green light helps with dark circles. You get to choose your own adventure (or use one of the FOREO app treatment programs, see below).

4. T-Sonic Massage

This is FOREO’s signature massage technology, and it’s featured in every one of their skincare devices. The “T” stands for transdermal because the gentle pulsations travel through the outer layer of the skin. This improves blood flow and relaxes the face and neck muscles. It also temporarily dilates pores, so the active ingredients in your skincare can penetrate through the outer layer of the skin without clogging pores. 

Like FOREO’S BEAR device, you can sync your UFO 2 with the FOREO app to access a variety of treatment routines that match whatever masks you’re using.

You can also use the app with your own masks to fully customize your supercharged two-minute facial. So whether you’re puffy, red, or tired on any given day, there’s a mask and treatment routine combination just right for you.

(Note: The UFO 2’s Advanced Temperature Control allows you to use the device with some sheet masks and other products, but always verify how heat or cold might affect any non-FOREO mask.)

The UFO 2 Is Non-Negotiable In My Skincare Routine

The UFO 2 has become an essential part of my morning routine, and the beauty of it is that I can adjust the treatment to whatever unpredictable thing is happening with my skin that day. 

And on nights when I have the energy to do more than collapse into bed, I’ve been experimenting with the Call It a Night Power Activated Mask. It contains ginseng and olive oil to tone, rejuvenate, nourish, and soften—and what a luxurious way to get ready for bed!

All UFO Power Activated Masks are developed and sourced in Korea, the center of the beauty world. They’re made of ultra-soft microfiber and drenched with skincare goodies. You can choose a wide variety of masks packed with natural ingredients including manuka honey, green tea, Bulgarian rose, cannabis seed oil, and so many more.

For approximately the price of one visit to the aesthetician, you can bring the spa to your home, plus tailor your treatment to your needs. It turns what is typically a 20-minute mask routine into a 90-second treat, which can save you more than five days in a year.

All things considered, I’d say the UFO 2 pays for itself after the very first use—especially since FOREO is currently running a Black Friday presale! You can get in on the savings in November—don’t miss out!

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Target Wrinkles, Sun Spots, And More With This Innovative Laser Treatment That’s Designed To Provide In-Office Results At Home https://www.suggest.com/lyma-laser-treatment-overview/2689486/ Mon, 14 Nov 2022 20:45:00 +0000 https://www.suggest.com/?p=2689486 LYMA Laser

Countless products and treatments promise to turn back the clock on our skin, diminishing normal—but nonetheless irksome—signs of aging. They promise to reduce wrinkles and discoloration, add firmness, and reverse sun damage. But most of them only deliver on half their promises, if that. 

Our skin ages in two ways: internally and externally. Thus, the most effective skincare treatment needs to target both. Most products on the market focus on external signs alone. LYMA is here to change that.

Using proprietary laser technology, LYMA has developed a way to treat both internal and external signs of aging simultaneously. It might not be able to send yo

u back in time 15 years, but your skin will look as though it did.

The LYMA Approach To Aging

The LYMA Laser is a small, handheld device that uses near-infrared invisible low-level laser light. Medical professionals use this therapy for cellular regeneration, such as rebuilding cartilage or healing tendons. The LYMA Laser operates at 500mW power at a wavelength of 808nm, enabling it to penetrate down to the muscle tissue.

While powerful, the LYMA Laser is completely safe to use at home. You also don’t need to wear goggles like in other medical treatments, thanks to two patented internal diffusers that fragment the near-infrared light into 25,000 smaller beams. This makes the LYMA Laser cold and painless to the touch. You can even use it safely on your eyelids.

The LYMA Laser is 100x more effective than LED therapy because it can address all causes of aging at once. Internally, the laser reaches deep into the base layer of the dermis. There, light energy signals the cells to recharge, regenerate, and repair.

Externally, that same light energy tells existing skin cells on the outer dermis to produce more proteins to fight free radicals. With fewer free radicals destroying healthy skin cells, the skin can replenish its collagen and elastin.

How To Use The LYMA Laser

Using the LYMA Laser is incredibly simple—so simple, in fact, you can use this highly effective skin treatment while watching TV, reading a book, or even lying in bed. The small device is about the shape and size of a medium-sized flashlight and emits no heat or noise.

To use the laser, start by gently cleansing the face. Then place the device directly over the area you want to target—around the eyes, jawline, forehead, décolletage, or on different areas of the body. You don’t need to apply pressure with the LYMA Laser; it just needs to be directly touching the skin during treatment. 

LYMA’s website recommends holding the device over each section of targeted skin for a minimum of three minutes a day. It also suggests using an oxygenating LYMA Active Mist and LYMA Priming Serum, though these two products are optional.

Unlike other skin treatments, the LYMA Laser doesn’t work by damaging the skin to kickstart cellular regeneration. That means there’s no sensitivity or downtime to consider while using this gentle, non-abrasive treatment.

Turn Back The Clock With LYMA

Because the LYMA Laser works at the cellular level, it takes some time to notice visible results. Improvements in wrinkles, discoloration, and sun damage can be seen in as little as 12 weeks, with results improving over continued use. 

Before and after photo of woman's jawline
(LYMA)

The picture above is a testimonial on LYMA’s site from a customer who used the LYMA Laser for 45 minutes daily over a period of three months.

Professional laser treatments can be abrasive, which can damage thinner menopausal skin. Moreover, they can cost upwards of $3,000—not including repeat visits. With the LYMA laser, a one-time payment gets you years of at-home treatments. And LYMA backs up its products with a two-year warranty.

Stop wasting your time (and money) with products that don’t target the root causes of aging. LYMA’s laser technology works at the cellular level to promote regeneration, rejuvenation, and all-around brighter, firmer, and more radiant skin. It’s no time machine, but it’s pretty close.

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New ‘Skin Cycling’ TikTok Trend Is Dermatologist-Backed But Comes With A Caveat For Menopausal Women https://www.suggest.com/skin-cycling-menopausal-women/2688425/ Sat, 12 Nov 2022 20:15:00 +0000 https://www.suggest.com/?p=2688425 Dollops of three different skincare products under bubbles on pink background

From trailblazing beauty and fashion tips to some of the weirdest food combos we’ve ever seen, TikTok has no shortage of helpful—and not-so-helpful—information. In the former camp, we love the upside-down shampooing method and this sultry reverse cat-eye look

But a new skincare trend circulating on the app recently caught our eye: skin cycling. We contacted a few dermatologists to verify (or refute) TikTok’s claims, and every doctor’s response was essentially the same.

While this simple beauty routine can offer ample benefits, there are a few caveats to consider for menopausal skin specifically.

So, What Is Skin Cycling?

To put it simply, skin cycling involves switching between retinol, exfoliant, and moisturizing treatments throughout the week. “Splitting up the ‘active’ nights with recovery nights gives the skin extra rest, no matter what your skin type is, and delivers all the active ingredients needed in the routine,” explained Dr. Simran Sethi, founder of skin by Dr. Simran Sethi.

“Skin cycling can be considered an introduction to using higher concentrations of retinol, chemical exfoliants, at-home peels, and other potent, medical-grade ingredients,” Sethi continued. “This helps the skin become accustomed to a new, medical-grade routine without compromising the skin.”

A typical skin cycling routine involves a four-day cycle and three main products.

Night One: Exfoliate

On the first night, begin with a gentle cleanser like CeraVe’s Hydrating Facial Cleanser. This everyday face wash cleans off makeup, dirt, and excess oil. But thanks to its formula of hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and glycerin, your skin isn’t left stripped and dry.

Next, exfoliate the skin. As our skin gets older, cell turnover slows down. Exfoliants help slough off dead skin cells, leaving skin smoother, clearer, and brighter. We love Paula’s Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant for its effective but gentle formula of 2% beta hydroxy acid, salicylic acid, and green tea extract.

Finally, follow up with a lipid- and antioxidant-rich moisturizer like La Roche-Posay’s Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer. Even on nights one and two, it’s important to moisturize after placing active ingredients on the skin.

Night Two: Retinol

Whereas exfoliants promote brighter, smoother skin from the outside, retinol helps achieve the same look from beneath the skin’s surface. It’s an active ingredient that catalyzes cell turnover, increases collagen production, and gives the skin a fresher, plumper appearance.

First, start with your daily face wash. Then, apply a pea-sized amount of CeraVe’s Skin Renewing Retinol Serum all over the face. Wait until fully absorbed before applying your lipid-rich moisturizer.

RELATED: Is Retinol Rough On Your Skin? Try This Instead

Nights Three & Four: Soothe

Finally, the last two nights of a skin cycling routine should be dedicated to letting the skin rest. Even high-quality exfoliants and retinol can be harsh on menopausal skin (more on that later), so it’s essential to allow adequate time for the skin to recuperate.

Your “soothe” days should be all about rich moisture and luxurious ingredients in addition to your normal cleanser and moisturizer. As we’ve mentioned in a previous article, we love the ultra-hydrating formula of the COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence.

You can also follow this up with a lavish face oil such as Kate Blanc’s Rosehip Seed Oil. This 100% pure, cold-pressed rosehip oil is anti-inflammatory and contains rich fatty acids. It may help reduce the appearance of wrinkles, scarring, and uneven skin tone.

The Caveat For Menopausal Skin

Of course, a quick scroll through the “skin cycling” hashtag will reveal that many of the women trying out this trend are young—like, born-in-the-new-millennia young. And as great as their skin looks, it probably isn’t just the skin cycling that makes it look different from the women born, say, 30 years before them.

“As women experience menopause, the skin can begin to thin, become translucent, and increase in fragility,” explained Jennifer Tran, BscN, RN, founder of Monaco Medical Aesthetics. “This makes the skin more susceptible to broken capillaries, redness, and dryness. The hyaluronic acid content in the skin reduces, creating a more sallow, dull, and deflated texture.” 

RELATED: Shifting Hormones In Midlife Can Make Your Skin Feel Like It’s Aged Overnight

“Retinol promotes cell turnover, which is expected to cause more dryness, so a rich moisturizer is essential,” Tran continued. “The importance of a moisturizer becomes even more so when working with thinner and sensitive skin related to hormonal changes.”

Additionally, she said, “Exfoliants should be used at lower strengths.” Tran recommended AHA-class exfoliants that are typically safer for menopausal skin. (BHA-class exfoliants should only be used in small quantities—around 2% at most.) 

One of our favorite AHA exfoliants is The Ordinary’s AHA 30% + BHA 2%, which has become an internet phenomenon for its ability to potentially improve skin radiance and texture (just be sure not to leave it on for more than 10 minutes). As a bonus, this two-pack also includes a hyaluronic acid serum perfect to use on your “soothe” nights!

Generally speaking, skin cycling is an easy-to-follow, uncluttered wellness routine, and dermatologists back its benefits. However, it’s important to consider how to implement this routine in the most effective (and safest) way possible: Don’t skimp out on the moisturizer, and keep your exfoliants on the softer side.

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Snail Mucin Is An Ancient Skincare ‘Miracle’ For Quenching Dry Skin And Fighting Signs Of Aging https://www.suggest.com/snail-mucin-skincare-benefits/2686871/ Wed, 09 Nov 2022 12:45:00 +0000 https://www.suggest.com/?p=2686871 COSRX and Peach Slices snail mucin products against a yellow background

We’ve experienced innumerable skincare fads in the past several years. From extravagant 7-step routines to skincare fasting, skin cycling, and various gadgets, it can be hard to keep up with the latest trends.

Along with various products and regimens, there’s always a new “better” skincare ingredient that promises to do more than the last. Some ingredients fade away as quickly as they appear (much like dark spots with a good vitamin C serum). Others have more staying power—hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, and retinol probably aren’t going anywhere anytime soon.

RELATED: Under-Eye Bags Run In My Family, And With This Vitamin C Eye Cream You Wouldn’t Know

But the newest “fad” actually has its origins in Ancient Greece. And now, in 2022, snail mucin has made a resurgence as a skincare ingredient. And yes, it’s exactly what you’re thinking. 

What Is Snail Mucin?

Snail mucin is an ingredient that re-entered the mainstream in Korean skincare in the early 2000s. But way, way before that, ancient Greeks knew of the healing and moisturizing properties of snail slime and used it to reduce inflammation. Yup, that trail of slime excreted by those cute little garden dwellers can now be found in toners, serums, and moisturizers.

If you’re a little weirded out, you’re not alone. It’s not an ingredient that sounds very appealing, but you can add it to a growing list of unusual skincare—bird poop, algae, and ambergris, anyone? Regardless of its gross-out factor, snail mucin has been hyped up for good reason.

The Skin Benefits Of Snail Mucin

We love a product that is a multi-tasker, which is why we love the many skin benefits of snail mucin. As the ancient Greeks discovered, the moisturizing and healing properties of snail mucin makes it great for dry, irritated skin.

What’s more, snail mucin has been found to be an effective anti-aging ingredient. Research has shown that not only does snail mucin keep skin hydrated and glowing by preventing water loss, but it can also aid in collagen restoration.

One 2015 study found that participants who used a face cream containing 80% snail mucin showed “statistically significant differences between baseline and 4 weeks after applying the cream in terms of wrinkles, skin elasticity, dermal density, and skin tightening.”

If you’re curious to give this ancient healing potion a try, check out some of our favorite picks.

If you’re looking to incorporate snail mucin into your routine, the COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence is a great place to start for any skin type. Use this serum on damp skin after cleansing and toning (be sure to finish with a moisturizer) to target signs of aging like wrinkles, dryness, and dehydrated skin.

Reviews claim that it’s safe for sensitive skin, and one reviewer called it “literal magic.” This serum has gone viral on TikTok and even my editor vouches for its ability to fade dark spots.

The COSRX Advanced Snail Radiance Dual Essence contains 74.3% snail mucin and 5% niacinamide. Simply blend these two powerhouse essences together and press them onto the skin to address issues like dullness, dryness, and uneven skin texture.

As we’ve mentioned, snail mucin is ultra-hydrating, which makes it a no-brainer for those with dry skin. The Peach Slices Snail Rescue All-in-One Moisturizer is an ultra-lightweight moisturizer that contains 95% snail mucin. Additional ingredients include other Korean skincare favorites: cica, which calms redness and irritation, and birch juice, which brightens and evens out skin tone.

Great for acne-prone skin, this Peach Slices Snail Rescue Blemish Busting Toner brightens dark spots, deeply hydrates, and repairs the skin. Formulated with hyaluronic acid and cica along with snail mucin, this toner will have your skin looking bright and clear in no time.

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Under-Eye Bags Run In My Family, And With This Vitamin C Eye Cream You Wouldn’t Know https://www.suggest.com/glow-recipe-guava-vitamin-c-bright-eye-gel-cream-review/2683041/ Fri, 04 Nov 2022 15:15:00 +0000 https://www.suggest.com/?p=2683041 Glow Recipe guava vitamin C bright-eye gel cream with guava in background

As is often the case with physical “flaws,” I first learned about my dark, puffy under-eyes from direct, if not tactless, high school classmates. Whether I got one hour of sleep or ten, my classmates often posed this dreaded (and backhanded) question: “oh my gosh, you look exhausted! Are you okay?”

…Yep, I always was—besides a little bruise on the ol’ ego. My dark circles and puffiness weren’t just from lack of sleep or water. They run in my family. As I age, I see these features set and deepen the same way I saw them do so in my great uncles and aunts. 

And while eye makeup has been a helpful temporary fix for me, I wanted to start treating the actual problem, not just cover it up. So, I started looking for solutions that went beyond skin deep. 

In my search, I found the aptly named beauty brand Glow Recipe.

Finding A Way To Restore My Glow

Glow Recipe creates antioxidant-rich, fruit-forward formulas that offer clinically proven results (without all the harsh chemicals). Its Guava Vitamin C Bright-Eye Serum is certainly no exception, so that’s where I started. 

The Guava Gel Cream claims to be a “potent yet gentle brightening eye cream to visibly reduce dark circles, hydrate, and depuff the entire eye area.” It contains encapsulated 10% vitamin C, 3% niacinamide blend, peptides, green caffeine, and guava seed oil. 

Perhaps even more important is what the cream doesn’t have. Glow Recipe’s eye cream is vegan and free of parabens, silicones, phthalates, drying alcohols, synthetic dyes, essential oils, and fragrances. The gentle formula and hundreds of soaring reviews convinced me to try it out.

First Impressions Of Glow’s Guava Gel

Using this gel is simple. I pumped a pea-sized amount of product onto my finger, then dabbed it along my under-eye area, eyelids, and around the sides of my eyes. I’m not a huge fan of the way fragrance-free products smell, but the lack of eye irritation made it worth it, in my opinion.

The product absorbed into my skin quickly and smoothly, leaving a supple finish. As I wait for the long-term results to kick in, I’ll still use a few dabs of concealer on my eyes to make me look bright-eyed and bushy-tailed. I was pleased to find the gel helped my concealer glide on smoothly and evenly.

Side by side comparison of undereye bag reduction with Glow Recipe's Guava Vitamin C Bright-Eye Gel
(M. Davis-McAfee)

While I haven’t noticed massive strides in the pigmentation department (yet), I’ve been pleasantly surprised at the reduction in puffiness. The outline of my under-eye bags has softened, and I feel like my eye area looks brighter and less dull in general. 

Additionally, I haven’t noticed the delicate skin around my eyes dry out as they have with products in the past. As the weather gets colder and my skin starts to dry out, I’m excited to see whether this product will help prevent the discomfort and flaking I often experience around my eyes in the winter. 

Considering the results I’ve seen after just a couple of weeks, I’m confident I’ll be even more pleased with this product after prolonged use. The sooner you try it out, the sooner you’ll start to enjoy these same benefits, too.

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After Trying This Luxe Face Oil That Firms, Softens, And Nourishes, I See Why It Always Sells Out https://www.suggest.com/goop-face-oil-review/2685187/ Tue, 01 Nov 2022 22:31:44 +0000 https://www.suggest.com/?p=2685187 Woman applying face oil

The first thing you should know about Goop’s All-In-One Super Nutrient Face Oil is that it keeps selling out. I had to postpone writing my review by two months until they could restock—you’ve been warned!

After using the product for nearly three months now, it’s easy to see why it’s hard to keep in stock.

When it comes to skincare, I’m a minimalist. I don’t like spending time on lots of steps, and I definitely don’t like spending lots of money on products. But when I find something that feels as nourishing and luxurious as Goop’s All-In-One Super Nutrient Face Oil, I can’t help but add it to my regimen. Huge added bonus when the product is a major multitasker like this one. 

Botanical, Workhorse Ingredients

I have always considered face oils to be luxury products that smell lovely, make your skin feel silky smooth and nourished, and provide that dewy finish I’ve come to love. 

RELATED: This ‘Facial In A Jar’ Is The Next Best Thing To Professional Microderm For Brightening And Smoothing Skin

So I was surprised to discover that Goop’s All-In-One Super Nutrient Face Oil does way more than that. Goops claims its botanical ingredients are proven to diminish the appearance of lines and wrinkles, improve skin firmness, smooth skin texture, as well as soften, nourish, and moisturize. 

That’s so much more than I ever expected from a face oil, especially one that’s a completely clean formula with no harmful chemicals. But I can attest that after hitting my skin with the triple threat of Goop’s Microderm Instant Glow Exfoliator (read my review here) followed by Goop’s 20% Vitamin C + Hyaluronic Acid Glow (read that review here) for nearly three months, my skin is looking better than it has since pre-pandemic times when I was regularly visiting an aesthetician.

It’s not surprising when you check out the ingredients. Goop’s face oil is a collection of nine nutrient-dense oils, the most powerful being bakuchiol, an up-and-coming retinol alternative. 

Researchers compared bakuchiol to retinol in a 12-week clinical study published in The British Journal of Dermatology. Study participants treated with bakuchiol saw significant improvements in fine lines, wrinkles, pigmentation, elasticity, and firmness. Even more exciting: they didn’t get the dry skin, irritation, and skin sensitivity that usually comes with retinols. 

The All-In-One Super Nutrient Face Oil also contains cacay, which is derived from a flowering plant. It has not been studied thoroughly, but it does contain bioactive compounds including retinol, which is promising. Another key ingredient is organic amla, a rich source of vitamin C that has been shown to be effective in preventing skin aging.

If you’re new to using oils, and like me have a history of oily, acne-prone skin, I encourage you not to be afraid, especially if you’re over 50 (also like me). 

Post-menopause, my skin is significantly dryer and rarely breaks out these days (although I still get the occasional breakout, presumably the universe wants me to experience wrinkles and acne simultaneously).

Backed By Research

In an eight-week, third-party study examining consumer perception and clinical results, 33 women ages 35 to 65 saw major changes in their skin using Goop’s face oil

After just one use, all of the women in the study saw instant, significant improvement in skin moisture. Ninety-one percent said the product had a silky texture that was readily absorbed by their skin.

After four weeks of use, 100% of women showed significant improvement in skin texture (softer and smoother). Ninety-seven percent noticed a reduction in fine lines and wrinkles.

After eight weeks of use, 100% said their fine lines and wrinkles were reduced. Ninety-four percent said their skin tone looked brighter and more even, and 82 percent saw an improvement in skin firmness.

They can add me to this group—after nearly two months of use, I see a clear improvement in my skin’s texture and tone. And it’s a pleasure to use—especially when I use it after the Vitamin C Serum, it absorbs nicely into my skin.

Goop recommends smoothing two to four drops over your face morning and night. With other face oils, I often found I needed to use more product than the bottle instructions indicated. But with this one, I was surprised to find that two drops were enough to cover my entire face. I use one or two more if I want to also cover my neck and décolletage. If money were no object I would slather it all over my body, but I reign in my urges and wipe any extra on the backs of my hands. 

If you’re looking for a face oil that imparts a beautiful glow and so much more, this hard-working botanical product is a great place to start. Try the Goop’s All-In-One Super Nutrient Face Oil yourself and get 15% off with the code SUGGEST15. That’s a better deal than Goop’s first-time customer discount. This stuff never goes on sale, plus, as I mentioned, Goop can hardly keep it in stock, so don’t miss out!

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No7’s New Line Of Beauty Products Caters To Menopausal Women’s Unique Skincare Needs https://www.suggest.com/no7-skincare-products-for-menopause/2685632/ Sun, 30 Oct 2022 20:15:00 +0000 https://www.suggest.com/?p=2685632 Product images of No7's new menopause skincare line

Among the many unpleasant changes associated with menopause, including hot flashes and menopausal rage, your skin may show some noticeable changes as well.

When a woman goes through menopause, estrogen levels rapidly decline. As estrogen levels plummet, collagen production also dwindles, resulting in skin laxity. Your skin might also become more dry, flaky, itchy, and thin.

It’s not always easy to see these changes staring back at us in the mirror. And when it comes to skincare during menopause, products designed specifically for this phase of life are few and far between.

RELATED: This Skincare Line Fights Menopausal Skin And Reviewers Are Stunned By The Quick Results

So we’re thrilled that No7 Skincare has introduced a line of skincare tailored specifically to address skin changes during menopause.

No7’s Approach To Menopausal Skincare

Women deserve a skincare regimen that supports healthy-looking skin during and after menopause. Developed in collaboration with over 7,000 menopausal women, No7 Beauty’s menopausal skincare collection addresses six key menopausal skin concerns: dryness, dullness, sensitivity, lack of firmness, uneven skin tone, lines, and wrinkles.

No7 Menopause Skincare Instant Radiance Serum visibly targets signs of aging, combating wrinkles on the face and making the neck look firmer while giving the skin a radiant and healthy glow.

It has a unique applicator that allows you to apply the product directly from the bottle. Best of all, this moisturizing serum provides instant cooling relief to soothe and rejuvenate hot skin.

Dryness is one of the toughest menopausal skin symptoms, but No7 Protect and Hydrate Day Cream is up to the task. In fact, 94% of menopausal women agreed their skin felt moisturized and softer after their first use. 

This day cream is bursting with moisture-boosting ingredients such as niacinamide and a hydrating complex, proven to hydrate skin for 72 hours. Plus, it contains green tea and vitamin C to help the skin look and feel more radiant. You can also expect smoother, more even-looking skin with broad spectrum SPF 30 in this day cream.

A further symptom of menopause is the dreaded raccoon eyes, but the No7 Menopause Skincare Firm and Bright Eye Concentrate can kick them to the curb. 

This eye cream refreshes and cools tired-looking eyes with the help of a metal rollerball applicator. Furthermore, this eye concentrate contains nourishing lipids, soy isoflavones, red clover, and moisturizing niacinamide to moisturize dry skin, reduce wrinkles, and firm the skin around the eyes.

The No7 menopause day cream is ideal for hydrating your skin during the day, but make sure to moisturize overnight as well. No7’s Nourishing Overnight Cream is packed with nourishing ceramides and lipids for dry, sensitive menopausal skin. Your skin will feel fresh and nourished when you wake up.

No7 Menopause Skincare Instant Cooling Mist instantly soothes irritated, hot skin, leaving it looking radiant and fresh. Two weeks after using this product, menopausal women said their skin’s texture had improved, fine lines were reduced, and their skin was visibly firmer and more even.

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If You Have Irritated Skin, This Underrated Product Should Be In Your Skincare Arsenal https://www.suggest.com/gya-labs-tea-tree-oil-irritated-skin/2685306/ Fri, 28 Oct 2022 16:15:00 +0000 https://www.suggest.com/?p=2685306 Skincare oil bottle and dropper dripping oil on leaf

In recent years, makeup trends have shifted away from full-glam looks to sheer, natural formulas that allow our real skin to shine. For many people, that means focusing more on building our skincare routines than collecting high-coverage foundations and concealers.

Although our medicine cabinets might be overflowing with different toners, essences, and serums, versatile and multifunctional products will always have our hearts.

One of these versatile products is tea tree oil, a powerful underrated oil that contains various skin benefits and deserves a prominent place in any beauty lover’s arsenal.

Tea tree oil has a wide range of applications, including keeping your hair, skin, and nails gorgeously healthy. Due to the potent bacteria-fighting compounds it contains, including terpinen-4-ol, it is a popular acne treatment alternative. In addition, tea tree oil is also known to soothe skin inflammation and redness caused by rosacea and contact dermatitis.

Aside from helping individuals achieve a healthy-looking complexion, tea tree oil can also help improve nail health by eliminating nail fungus. Those suffering from a dry scalp can even benefit from this potent oil by using it to reduce dandruff.

When choosing a tea tree oil, it’s easy to be confused about which brand to go with. Rather than settling for anything less than the best, we recommend choosing the top-selling single essential oil of any kind on Amazon, the Gya Labs Tea Tree Oil.

The Gya Labs oil is a 100% natural therapeutic oil derived from the leaves of Melaleuca alternifolia, otherwise known as tea trees.

Beauty and skincare enthusiasts are sure to appreciate the many uses of this multifunctional oil, including its ability to cleanse and repair the skin. Massage two drops of this mixed with a carrier oil (we like rosehip oil) onto your face and skin as part of your daily skincare regimen.

RELATED: A Damaged Skin Barrier Can Have Adverse Health Effects—Here’s How To Strengthen It

You can also use Gya Labs Tea Tree Oil along with a carrier oil to combat embarrassing thick, yellow nails. If you suffer from dandruff and an itchy scalp, try adding a few drops to your shampoo for some relief.

This potent botanical will not only enhance the appearance of your skin, nails, and hair; it also has the power to lift your spirits with its aromatic properties. Use two drops of tea tree oil combined with lemon and bergamot oil and water for a rejuvenating aroma. Your home will smell like a high-end spa in no time!

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Gwyneth Paltrow’s 50th Birthday After-Party Skincare Routine: 5 Products For Overnight Recovery https://www.suggest.com/gwyneth-paltrow-goop-bedtime-beauty-routine-product-review/2683284/ Wed, 19 Oct 2022 16:25:00 +0000 https://www.suggest.com/?p=2683284 Gwyneth Paltrow poses with her exfoliating sleep milk

Just in case you’ve been in a remote locale with no connection to the rest of the world: Gwyneth Paltrow turned 50 last month. Every publication from Vogue to Prevention has commented on the occasion. 

To celebrate reaching the half-century milestone and looking gorgeous doing it, the Goop founder wrote an inspiring piece about aging and posed for a Goldfinger-esque nude photo shoot. 

And of course, she also celebrated the big day with a luxe party—a pajama party, actually, where she and her guests drank champagne and ate caviar at a private barn in Amagansett, naturally. Rachel Zoe, Savannah Guthrie, Tracy Anderson, and other glamorous friends attended, and much revelry was made.

After a night of indulgence, Paltrow was ready for the type of after-party that I can really embrace, which involved a quick skincare routine and hitting the hay shortly thereafter.

If you’d like to duplicate her bedtime routine, you can get 15% off with a special code from Suggest. Just enter suggest15 through December 31, 2022 on any Goop-owned product (excluding bundles) and you’ll be good to go.

First up is GOOPGLOW Cloudberry Exfoliating Jelly Cleanser, which “takes the day off,” she said. It cleanses, smooths, and brightens your skin. It’s soft yet exfoliating and made with natural fruit enzymes, arctic cloudberry, and bitter orange peel.

Next up is GOOPGLOW Dark Spot Exfoliating Sleep Milk, which is a silky (and stealthy) product with 10% multi-acid milk serum. It works overnight to exfoliate, resurface, and moisturize, leaving your skin glowy, smooth, and baby-soft by morning—OK results don’t literally appear overnight, it works over a period of about two to four weeks. But the soothing, moisturizing extracts of Kalahari melon, jojoba, and aloe, plus oat beta-glucan, hyaluronic acid, and squalane delivered noticeable results in third-party clinical trials. 

GOOPGENES All-In-One Nourishing Skincare Kit

$85 Shop Now at Goop
  • Includes a full-size All-in-One Nourishing Eye Cream, a travel-size All-in-One Nourishing Face Cream, and a travel-size All-in-One Super Nutrient Face Oil.

GOOPGENES All-in-One Nourishing Eye Cream, which Gwyneth said she “can’t live without,” is also clinically tested, and the results showed that the cream firmed and smoothed the appearance of crow’s-feet, fine lines, puffiness, and dark circles. If you’re looking for a fresh, well-rested appearance, this eye cream delivers, and pairs nicely with Goop’s other All-in-One products (currently the eye cream is not available as a one-off purchase).

Lips are next: GOOPGENES Clean Nourishing Lip Balm is the ultra-hydrating product that Paltrow’s makeup artist used when prepping her birthday suit photo shoot because every inch of her body needed to be thoroughly moisturized in preparation for gold powder application. I have the balm and while I’ve never tried to gild my lips, I can attest that it is luxuriously hydrating, and it comes in two tinted shades as well. 

Last but not least, she finishes off her nighttime routine with her All-In-One Super Nutrient Face Oil by rubbing a few drops of the clean formula in her palms and patting it all over her face, neck, and chest. Skincare labels can make a lot of hyperbolic claims, but in this case, “super-nutrient” is not an exaggeration. The face oil is a collection of nine nutrient-dense oils, the most powerful being bakuchiol, an up-and-coming retinol alternative. 

Researchers compared bakuchiol to retinol in a 12-week clinical study published in The British Journal of Dermatology. Study participants treated with bakuchiol saw significant improvements in fine lines, wrinkles, pigmentation, elasticity, and firmness. Even more exciting, they didn’t get the dry skin, irritation, and skin sensitivity that usually comes with retinol. 

Up The Ante With Vitamin C Serum

If you want to add one more weapon to your nighttime arsenal, I recommend the GOOPGLOW 20% Vitamin C + Hyaluronic Acid Glow Serum. I’ve been using it for about seven weeks morning and night and the results seem to be worth the wait. I have to say I’m impressed and surprised by the noticeable difference between the before and after. 

The texture and color of my skin is smoother and more even. And for lack of a better way to say it, I look glowier. (OK and yes my ice-dyed outfits from the pandemic are still in heavy rotation.)

Kristen Philipkoski poses for before and after photos, Goop Vitamin C Serum review

For the before and after photos, I tried to duplicate my lighting and position—I used a ring light for both, wore no makeup, and applied no filter. I forgot to use portrait mode for the after but I don’t believe that skewed the results. 

This vitamin C product is different from any other I’ve used because it combines two skin-care powerhouses: L-ascorbic acid (proven in research to be the purest, best form of the antioxidant vitamin C), and moisturizing hyaluronic acid (a hydrator that’s naturally present in the body). 

You mix the two ingredients together once you receive the product at home so the product is fresh when you start to use it, and it won’t lose its potency for three months (potency is often an issue for vitamin C products because light and heat can easily compromise them). 

The hyaluronic acid incorporates three molecular sizes to penetrate different layers of the skin, plus the antioxidant superfruit Australian kakadu plum. The ingredients work together to brighten, improve firmness, tone, texture, and hydration, leaving your skin looking radiant, luminous, and healthy.

I don’t know about you but I’m ready for bed. And with this routine, maybe there’s a chance to look rested in the morning, even after an extravagant party the night before. Remember, our readers get an exclusive 15% off their order with promo code suggest15 (this is one of the best deals you can find, so don’t wait!).

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Just No: Women Are Using Their Own Period Blood For DIY Face Masks https://www.suggest.com/period-blood-diy-face-mask/2679510/ Wed, 05 Oct 2022 11:45:00 +0000 https://www.suggest.com/?p=2679510 an illustration of red and white blood cells plus platelets

Given the title, you’re probably wondering: what in the Jeffrey Dahmer is going on here? And we’re thinking the same thing. While TikTok can be an excellent place for discovery, it can also be a terrifying place to encounter strange trends. Recent examples of the latter include using period blood as a face mask.

Despite its bizarreness, the menstrual mask has garnered some interest, with many putting the eww factor aside. In fact, the #periodbloodfacemask has over 3.5 million views on TikTok. 

What Are Period Masks? 

As the name implies, a period mask involves collecting period blood in a menstrual cup and applying it to the face. Those who follow the unusual beauty trend claim that while it’s strange, smearing blood onto their face has many advantages. They say that their skin has become clear and glowing since they have received nutrients from their blood. 

Regardless of what these unquestioning TikTokers may believe, no scientific proof supports these claims. In fact, a dermatologist created a follow-up video explaining why it’s bad for your skin, and possibly unsafe. 

As Dr. Joyce explains in her video, there are several reasons why people shouldn’t participate in this new facial trend. The first thing she mentions is that the menstrual blood used is not collected in a sterile manner. Therefore, bacteria, sweat, and other things in the blood are of concern. If you have an infection “down there,” you could transmit bacteria and viruses from your genital region to your face, she says.

RELATED: These Microneedling Eye Patches Work Almost As Well As Botox To Make The Eye Area Look More Youthful

Dr. Joyce also denies that it is possible for a menstrual face mask to be similar to a PRP treatment, which Kim Kardashian made popular by posting her bloody face on social media. “Period blood contains red blood cells but also white blood cells, platelets, bacteria because of contamination, sweat, shed of endothelial cells, dead skin cells,” she says.

Unlike this DIY facial, the so-called “vampire facial” is a skincare treatment made of platelet-rich plasma. “We’re actually extracting blood in a sterile way from your veins and then spinning it down to only collect your platelets, taking out only red and white blood cells,” Dr. Joyce says. Although it sounds similar, vampire facials are done in a clinical setting, without the contaminants. Self-collecting and administration should never be attempted.

There is no cosmetic benefit to using menstrual blood on your face, it is not recommended, and it could even be dangerous. With so many great, safe, and clinically proven skincare options available today, you can skip this cringeworthy beauty trend.

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‘Fairy Dusting’ Is The Deceiving Skincare Trend That Could Be Costing You Money https://www.suggest.com/skincare-fairy-dusting-deception/2678581/ Tue, 04 Oct 2022 21:45:00 +0000 https://www.suggest.com/?p=2678581 A woman in a robe looking at two skincare products

Ingredients including hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, retinol, and collagen peptides are at this point well known to consumers. And when we see these ingredients on skincare packaging, we tend to believe the product will have some sort of beneficial effect on our skin.

Scientists have published research showing the ingredients’ effectiveness, and science doesn’t lie, right?

It’s true that science doesn’t lie, but sometimes packaging does.

While many brands have become more transparent in recent years as consumers become savvier and expect more information, other brands have muddied the waters when it comes to ingredients. A misleading practice called “fairy dusting” has flourished thanks to vague marketing and spotty oversight.

The beauty and personal care industry has already made $534 billion in 2022, and the projections for the skincare industry increase yearly. Unfortunately, it often comes down to consumers to educate ourselves and make sure our money is going towards quality products, not shady marketing.

RELATED: I’m A 50+ Beauty Editor, And I Saw Results In Just Two Minutes With This Popular Microcurrent Device

What Is Skincare Fairy Dusting?

Fairy dusting means brands list a trending ingredient on their product packaging even though it contains only a trace amount of the ingredient. High-quality ingredients are more expensive, so brands will add very small amounts and then put them on the list of ingredients.

They can then go a step further and advertise the effectiveness of those ingredients, even though the amounts are probably too small for you to reap any of those benefits.

How Do Brands Get Away With It?

Fairy dusting is certainly unethical, and it’s not exactly legal. But oversight is an issue.

The Food and Drug Administration doesn’t approve cosmetics before they’re brought to market. Rather, the agency is responsible for regulating products after they’re already being sold.

The Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act does prohibit “the marketing of adulterated or misbranded cosmetics in interstate commerce.” Fairy dusting would certainly fall under misbranding, which according to the FD&C Act, “refers to violations involving improperly labeled or deceptively packaged products.” A cosmetic is misbranded if “its labeling is false or misleading.”

The catch is enforcement. The FDA can pursue action through the Department of Justice and the federal court system to remove misbranded cosmetics from the market. But that’s not an easy process, and misbranding may not top the agency’s list of to-dos: “FDA takes regulatory action based upon agency priorities, consistent with public health concerns and available resources,” according to FDA.gov.

How To Avoid Fairy Dusting

Ingredients are listed from highest to lowest concentration on labels, and in some cases, you’ll want to look for products where the advertised active ingredients are listed higher on the label. If the product lists the ingredient’s concentration you can do a little of your own due diligence (i.e. Googling) to make sure it’s an effective amount.

However, not all ingredients follow the top-to-bottom rule. Retinol, for example, can be effective at lower concentrations. So be sure to look up the concentration levels for effectiveness on whatever ingredient you are curious about.

RELATED: ‘Skincare Fasting’ Is A Hot Beauty Trend, But Experts Warn Against Quitting Cold Turkey

Another way to avoid fairy dusting is to research the brands that you use. Check out the product’s website to see if they have performed any clinical studies and what those results found. Remember that just because a product is more expensive doesn’t always mean that it will be more effective. And be cautious of brands that don’t list specific concentrations on their products.

It is also important to watch out for products that make scientific-sounding claims. If the product promises to change your skin at a “cellular level” that might warrant some skepticism. If cosmetics really did some of the things they claimed, they would be considered drugs and would then need FDA clearance before they could be sold and marketed. There are medical-grade skincare products that you can buy from your dermatologist’s office, which can save you the headache of figuring out which products will actually work.

Fairy dusting is one more reminder that it’s important to know what you’re putting on your skin, and knowing these sneaky marketing tricks will help you become a more conscious consumer—and save money in the long run.

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I’m A 50+ Beauty Editor, And I Saw Results In Just Two Minutes With This Popular Microcurrent Device https://www.suggest.com/foreo-bear-review-over-50-skin/2678984/ Sat, 01 Oct 2022 16:15:00 +0000 https://www.suggest.com/?p=2678984 A magenta FOREO BEAR and their SERUM SERUM SERUM

Before I got my latest FOREO BEAR microcurrent device, I received my first FOREO product back in 2017 after a serendipitous meeting at the beach in my then-hometown, Pacifica, California.

I had just finished a photoshoot in the hills adjacent to Linda Mar beach (home of the prettiest Taco Bell on earth, if you’re not familiar) when I spied a vintage Winnebego in the parking lot. A classic, sunset-behind-mountains design festooned its exterior, and we couldn’t resist snapping some photos. 

Little did we know, the owners were inside. We backed away sheepishly as they came outside, wondering what we were up to. Luckily, they were flattered that we were so taken by their camper. They had a cute dog and we had a cute dog and we mingled for a few laughs and shot a few more photos. 

Long story short, it turned out the camper’s owner worked with FOREO (pronounced FOR-RAY-OH), a Swedish brand I’d never heard of. When I told her I was a lifestyle editor, she took my contact information and promised to send me one of their devices.

Lo and behold she followed through, and within a couple of weeks I received a mini version of FOREO’S LUNA face-cleansing device. My face never felt so clean after using that little thing, and I’ve been a fan ever since. 

Kristen Phillipkoski in front of the vintage camper.
(Kristen Philipkoski)

Although I’ve unfortunately lost this lovely woman’s card and cannot for the life of me remember her name (If you’re out there, apologies for my terrible memory! You’re awesome!), it was one of those serendipitous experiences you never forget. Plus, I have photographic reminders of the day!

So I was thrilled to have the opportunity to test some of FOREO’S latest products: the BEAR, the UFO, and the LUNA 3

In this review I’m sharing my experience with the BEAR microcurrent device—check back for reviews of the other two products in the coming months!

FOREO BEAR Technology And Design

FOREO has come a long way since my encounter five years ago. Founded in 2013, the brand’s products are available in more than 10,000 stores worldwide including Sephora, SpaceNK, Cult Beauty, and many more.

In just the past three years, FOREO products have won more than 120 design and beauty awards. It’s the world’s fastest-growing beauty device brand, based on search term numbers. In addition to skincare devices, FOREO also makes toothbrushes, acne treatments, and more. 

The FOREO BEAR is deceptively small and cute but delivers a fierce microcurrent. Its T-Sonic pulsations promise to tighten and firm your skin for a more youthful, contoured complexion.

It’s also the only at-home microcurrent device that features FOREO’S Anti-Shock System. FOREO reps told us that’s what makes the BEAR the safest microcurrent device in the world. And despite its diminutive size, it offers more microcurrent intensities than any other at-home device.

The BEAR scans and measures your skin’s resistance to electricity, automatically adjusting the microcurrent intensity in just .002 seconds (literally before you can blink) to maintain a steady quality of treatment with maximum safety and comfort.

In the past, I used another brand of microcurrent device that I found to be effective, but it was made of hard plastic and after dropping it on the floor one too many times, it stopped working. So I love that the BEAR is coated with soft, bacteria-resistant, 100% waterproof silicone for cushioning and grip. It also comes in fuchsia or mint—I have the mint, which is a welcome pop of color in my bathroom.

Also, my previous device quickly lost its charge, so I had to keep it stored in its charging stand on top of my bathroom counter. The BEAR holds a charge for up to 90 uses (kind of amazing), plus it’s so small that you can tuck it into a drawer when it’s not in use (although it’s so cute you won’t mind leaving it out). 

First Impressions Of The FOREO BEAR

All FOREO devices can be connected with the brand’s mobile app. Being an impatient person I was inclined to skip this step, but I forced myself to follow instructions and found that the app was super easy to download and use, and it seamlessly activated my devices.

When I connected my BEAR, I was delighted to find a two-minute guided facial fitness routine to follow along with, complete with a video. Note: you can use the BEAR without the app. 

As I mentioned, the BEAR is quite small, and I wondered if it could really be powerful enough to deliver a strong enough microcurrent to have an effect. It quickly proved me wrong.

But first: SERUM. Actually, SERUM SÉRUM SERUM (that’s what FOREO’S is called). Never use the BEAR or any microcurrent device without a conductive serum, gel, or cream or you may be in for a shocking surprise (see what I did there).

FOREO’S SERUM SÉRUM SERUM is unscented and glides on pleasantly without being gooey or sticky. As instructed, I made sure it was fully absorbed before using the device. 

The BEAR is so light and holds a charge for so long that I can totally imagine throwing it in the included travel pouch and taking it on a trip, which I really hope happens sometime very soon. 

Instant Results Using The FOREO BEAR

Before and after photos of Kristen Philipkoski to show the instant results of using the FOREO BEAR.
(Kristen Philipkoski)

I tried my best to take before and after photos using the same pose, angle, and lighting. I’m not sure I 100 percent succeeded, but I do believe that I see a slight lift, mainly in the upper half of my face. 

The most remarkable difference I noticed is above my eyebrows. I’m not sure if it’s a latent Botox complication (which I haven’t had for three years) or just an asymmetrical symptom of aging, but in the past few years, my left eyebrow has been alarmingly higher than my right.

We’re all asymmetrical, of course, but this has made me do a double take in the mirror more times than I’d like to admit. So when I used the BEAR on my forehead, I strategically did one swipe above my left eyebrow, and about four above my right. And by George, I swear my brows look more even. 

Tips For Using The FOREO BEAR

  • In typical Gen X, fashion, I figured I could put the device on the highest setting and I’d grit my teeth through any discomfort. And then I remembered that no pain no gain is a useless mantra, and at level 10, I felt more of the microcurrent than was comfortable. On the app, I noticed the device was preset to level 4, and that turned out to be perfect for me. 
  • You’ll want your face to be completely clean and free of any products besides the SERUM, and the perfect way to achieve that is by first using the FOREO’S LUNA to cleanse. 
  • Lastly, in addition to the immediate results you’re likely to see, the device is designed to have a cumulative effect as well, so stay tuned for my 15- and 30-day reviews, including more before and after photos.  
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I’m A 50+ Beauty Editor, And Ellen DeGeneres’ Skincare Line Left My Skin Immediately Glowing https://www.suggest.com/kind-science-honest-review/2678503/ Thu, 29 Sep 2022 17:15:00 +0000 https://www.suggest.com/?p=2678503 a woman with long hair holds 7 Kind Science skincare products

If you haven’t heard, Ellen DeGeneres teamed up with Victoria Jackson, an expert and beauty authority with more than 30 years in the business, to develop an easy-to-use skincare system that works for all skin types. 

“It’s not about ‘anti-aging’ because I think aging is a good thing,” DeGeneres says. And since she is also passionate about protecting animals, so is the brand. The products are never tested on our furry friends (nor non-furry ones for that matter).

She calls the brand’s approach “age positive,” and I’m here for that so I was pretty excited to give the system a try. I tested the full line of Kind Science products—it’s the first time I’ve used a one-brand system from start to finish so I was excited about the complete experience.

First Impressions

I was surprised by how light my box was when it arrived, and also how light the individual bottles were. I couldn’t wait to dig in and give the 7-step routine a try.

Not only is the packaging light, but so are the formulas. The kind folks at Kind Science say they strategically combine technology, powerful plants, and patented peptides to achieve light yet effective formulations. The products contain no parabens, toxins, harsh chemicals, dyes, or fragrances.

On a purely superficial level, I love the look of the packaging. The blue hue matches my Foreo Bear, and the faux-wood lids lend an earthy vibe.

The Gentle Cleanser is light but creamy with little to no detectable scent. My 10-year-old daughter said I looked like Santa after I massaged it into my face. I had been wearing a full face of makeup, and I was admittedly surprised that the cleanser easily removed all of it, including mascara. And it rinsed off easily.

The instructions recommend gently massaging in this product for 15-20 seconds, and leaving it on for up to three minutes for an “extra punch of exfoliation,” so I went ahead and did that. As I’ve mentioned, I love a good exfoliant, so I enjoyed this step quite a bit. The grains were less scratchy than others I’ve tried, but rough enough that it still felt like it was doing the job.

This product comes in a sturdy glass bottle. After drying my face completely, I applied two pumps to my fingertips, which was plenty to cover my entire face and neck. It was slightly creamy but also very light. It has almost a matte finish, which I found to be quite lovely.

This was the creamiest product of the bunch so far, and like the others, I could not detect a scent. It comes in a pot, so I dabbed two of my fingertips and got enough product to cover my face. It had a silky finish, and it didn’t feel heavy on my face. I was starting to feel pretty pampered.

I have been an eye cream fanatic since long before I had any signs of crow’s feet, which if you do the math means I’ve been using eye cream for a good 30 years! I like a dense eye cream, and this one fit the bill. Again, no scent, and although it was the thickest product of the bunch, it did not feel heavy once applied to my skin.

Ah, the neck. It’s hard not to feel bad about your neck after the age of 50, as Nora Ephron so eloquently (and hilariously) chronicled. So although I remain skeptical that a product can specifically address the skin on your neck, it feels good to have a lotion dedicated to this area. This one felt similar to the hydration cream: The formulation is rich but feels light on the skin, and has a silky finish.

At this point, I was feeling positively glowing and could not imagine applying yet another product to my face. My skin didn’t feel at all greasy or slick, but still. I had just applied six products—what would happen when I placed an oil of all things on top of it all?

But somehow it felt like the perfect finish to this lavish process. The oil is not heavy, and three drops rubbed between my palms and then pressed into my skin absorbed fully in about 10 seconds. I felt like a princess as I laid my head on my pillow (until I woke up at 2 am with menopause-induced insomnia, but that’s another story).

Results

My immediate results were clean, glowing, fresh-feeling skin. In a 12-week clinical study using Firming Serum and Hydration Cream, 94% of subjects saw visibly fewer wrinkles, 91% showed a noticeable increase in elasticity, 97% experienced improved smoothness and suppleness, and 100% noticed an improvement in hydration.

Tips

  • If you are considering adopting a daily skincare routine that approaches skin fitness from all angles, I would recommend trying one of Kind Science’s kits, either the Deluxe Full-Size Kit or the Starter Full-Size Kit.
  • And if you’re not into the products, Kind Science offers a 30-day risk-free money-back guarantee on your first Join + Save subscription order, and a 30-day money-back guarantee (not including shipping and handling) on all other orders. 
  • Also a quick note on recycling: The packing information includes detailed instructions on how to recycle each bottle. But the materials might not be recyclable in your area, so you may want to check your local recycling facilities to verify that.


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‘Skincare Fasting’ Is A Hot Beauty Trend, But Experts Warn Against Quitting Cold Turkey https://www.suggest.com/skincare-fasting-expert-advice/2672979/ Fri, 16 Sep 2022 21:15:00 +0000 https://www.suggest.com/?p=2672979 Skincare products with prohibited circle over top of them

From “miracle” elixirs to “revolutionary” regimens, there’s no shortage of skincare companies claiming to hold the key to bright, flawless skin.

On the flip side, skincare fasting recently gained buzz-worthy status across the internet. And although the concept seems harmless and straightforward enough, dermatologists recommend not taking the term “fasting” too literally. 

Skincare fasting implies taking a break from all skincare products for a period of time, whether it’s weeks or months. This supposedly allows the skin to reset, get stronger, and reduce sensitivity. Do more by doing less—sounds good, right?

Er, wrong. While a total skincare fast might be a viable option for some, experts warn about the risks of doing it incorrectly.

Try A Half-Fast Instead

The overwhelming consensus among experts we spoke to was that they do not recommend a full skincare fast. Sunscreen and some other key items should rarely be omitted.

“We cannot totally remove skincare because our skin is the first layer of protection of our body,” explains board-certified dermatologist Dr. Patricia Gaile Espinosa

RELATED: A Damaged Skin Barrier Can Have Adverse Health Effects—Here’s How To Strengthen It

“We need to protect our skin from the unwanted effects of sun exposure, such as skin cancer and photoaging leading to wrinkles, uneven skin tone, and texture. We also need moisturizer whether it’s hot or cold,” Espinosa continues. 

A gentle cleanser and lipid-rich moisturizer is another item you want to keep in your skincare routine, said Dr. Simran Sethi, founder and CEO of RenewMD.

That said, it is a good idea to take a break from certain products as part of a fast, she added. “Hold off on any chemical barrier sunscreens. Switch to a physical barrier sunscreen that contains zinc or titanium oxide or both.” Your skin might also benefit from taking a break from retinol and hydroquinone products.

EltaMD UV Sheer SPF 50+ Sunscreen

$34 Shop Now at Amazon
  • Is a hydrating and non-greasy.
  • Helps calm heated or reddened skin.
  • Dye-, fragrance-, oil-, paraben-, and alcohol-free.
  • Contains 15% Zinc Oxide and other key antioxidants to promote healthy skin.

Keep It Consistent

Elina Fedotova, founder and chief formulator for Elina Organics, recommends skincare fasting only if you’re using a mismatched skincare regimen. “Most people have purchased random products from different locations and created a regimen that does not necessarily go together,” Fedotova said.

“If you are trying to cook a particular dish, you should follow a specific recipe. It’s the same thing with skincare. The cleanser is supposed to bring your skin to a desirable pH and prep your skin for a particular toner. Then, the toner is supposed to prep your skin for a specific serum or moisturizer.”

Looking for somewhere to start? This highly rated skin care set is formulated without many problematic ingredients such as paraben and sulfates.

InstaNatural Skin Care Set

$64.97 Shop Now at Amazon
  • Includes: Vitamin C Face Wash, Vitamin C Toner, Vitamin C Serum, and Vitamin C Moisturizer
  • Set designed to hydrate, brighten, and support the skin’s barrier. 
  • Includes other skin-loving ingredients such as Green Tea, Witch Hazel, Hyaluronic Acid, and Niacinamide. 

Using multiple products from different brands can cause adverse skin reactions, Fedotova said, in which case, fasting might be helpful. If a professional created your skincare routine but it still isn’t working, Fedotova suggests returning for a consultation or finding a new dermatologist.

It’s Not For Everyone

Many experts we spoke to noted that, while skincare fasting might be a viable option for some, it isn’t for everyone.

“I’m skeptical about everything that contains some variation of the word ‘detox,’” warns beauty expert Katya Bychkova. “While I’m all-in for a minimalist skincare approach and multi-tasking products, going cold turkey is not the best thing you could do.”

Instead, Bychkova reiterates the importance of including a gentle cleanser and moisturizer in your daily skincare routine, no matter what.

“I’d think a hundred times before skipping on sunscreen,” she said. “In my universe, this skincare step is non-negotiable.”

“I wouldn’t recommend attempting [total] skin fasting to anyone, especially people struggling with medical conditions like eczema and cystic acne. Talk to your dermatologist first if you plan on skipping any topical treatments,” she adds. 

Skincare fasting does have potential benefits. If you’re using a mismatched regimen with clashing products, then a skincare fast might help reset the skin while you find a more appropriate routine. 

But remember to only abstain from harsher products, like retinol, AHA, BHA, and hydroquinone. No matter how long your fast lasts, you should continue using a gentle cleanser, lipid-rich moisturizer, and chemical-free sunscreen. As it turns out, less is more, but nothing is not necessarily best.

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I Tried The Kate Walsh-Approved Crepe Erase Skin Line, Here’s What I Think https://www.suggest.com/crepe-erase-personal-review/2673142/ Thu, 15 Sep 2022 21:45:00 +0000 https://www.suggest.com/?p=2673142 comparison of arms before and after using Crepe Erase

The one place I never thought I’d be thinking about wrinkles? My forearms. As enlightened as I try to be about getting older and embracing this phase of life, I find myself looking down at my appendages and thinking, “Et tu, forearms?”

When I was a kid, an activity my mother and I enjoyed doing together was “laying out in the sun.” It’s a phrase that will likely fade out of the English lexicon since most sane people no longer participate in the practice. But man did we love to lie in our rural Pennsylvania backyard and see how brown our skin could get as we dipped our feet in an inflatable pool. 

And now I’m paying for it with forearms that are “crepey.” At least that’s what the many ads I’m bombarded with as I navigate my workday want to call it. 


So I was admittedly intrigued when I had the opportunity to try Crepe Erase products, especially since it’s backed by the stunning Kate Walsh (AKA Dr. Addison Montgomery from Grey’s Anatomy) and Jane Seymour. My admiration for Ms. Seymour goes back to my college days when, at the (seemingly, at the time) advanced age of around 40, stole the heart of my 20-year-old boyfriend. She was his “pass,” and I was jealous and in awe. To this day, when she speaks, I pay attention.  

Easy Application, Potent Ingredients

I tried the two-step Crepe Erase Ultra 5-Piece Body & Face System for body, face, and neck. The procedure is to first scrub in the exfoliating product, which contains alpha hydroxy acid to encourage cell turnover. I use it in the shower at night, then pat myself dry, leaving my skin a bit damp. 

The second step is applying the body, face, and neck treatments. I was surprised by how little I needed to cover each area—as my mom used to say, “A little dab’ll do ya.” 

The body treatment contains the “TruFirm+, Patented Dual Peptides with 12 Super Hydrators.” It’s dense but also manages to absorb quickly. The brand says the formula helps support your skin’s natural collagen and elastin production and locks in hydration for 72 hours. 

Indeed, I saw an immediate difference in my skin. Check out the photo of my forearms—the bottom one immediately after using the body lotion and the other free of any product. It’s pretty easy to see the difference!

comparison of arms before and after using Crepe Erase
(Kristen Philipkoski)

Used daily, Crepe Erase products have been shown to reveal smoother, firmer skin on arms, knees, legs, and chest. A clinical study showed a 24% increase in hydration when using the body pre-treatment followed by the body lotion. 

The Advanced Restorative Face Treatment contains retinol, which research shows can smooth fine lines and wrinkles, improve texture, and even out skin tone.  

Handy Dispensers

As part of the 5-piece collection, the Advanced Body Repair Treatment Ultra comes in a tub that you can touch lightly with your fingertips to get plenty of product. The Ultra Smooth Neck Repair comes in a smaller tub with a handy pumping mechanism that serves up just the right amount. The smaller Advanced Restorative Facial Treatment is packaged in a 0.5 fl. oz bottle with a traditional pump that also gives you just the right amount to cover your face. 

The containers are sleek and unassuming—my husband hasn’t complained yet about once again having less real estate on the bathroom counter. 

The Scent 

My least favorite part of the Body Repair Treatment was the scent. The version I tried was technically fragrance-free, which many people might prefer. But it made me realize I like a prettier, more herbaceous, or floral scent in my products. By the time I get up in the morning, I can’t detect any scent at all. The good news is the products also come in a citrus scent, which I will be sure to try next time!

The fragrance-free face and neck products have an even more neutral scent, I could hardly detect one right out of the dispensers. 

Final Verdict

These products are easy and pleasant to use. They delivered immediate results that seem worth the price of the 5-product package, especially since just two of the products would cost more than the bundle. Also considering the long-term results seen in the clinical trial, the 5-piece system is an even better value. 

Note that when using these products you should be extra careful to apply and re-apply sunscreen. Both retinol and alpha hydroxy acid can make your skin more sensitive to sun exposure. 

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Are Your Showering Wrong? It Might Be The Cause Of Your Dry, Irritated Skin https://www.suggest.com/showering-mistakes-cause-dry-irritated-skin/2672512/ Sun, 11 Sep 2022 16:15:00 +0000 https://www.suggest.com/?p=2672512 woman showering with suds on her face and hands

Who would have thought there was a wrong way to shower? As it turns out, some aspects of our self-care routines may cause more harm than good.

We’ve covered in the past common makeup mistakes that can actually age you, as well as the ever-hard-to-master self-tanner mistakes and even common mistakes when washing your hair.

So it stands to reason we might also be making showering mistakes. Yep, that mundane thing we’ve been doing for decades? We’re probably doing it wrong, especially if you often end up with dry, irritated, or itchy skin.

And as the seasons transition and cooler weather enters the scene, these tips will be especially useful. The good news is that just a few simple tweaks could help you get rid of irritated skin for good.

1. The Water Is Way Too Hot

Showering with super hot water is one of the most common showering mistakes. Honestly, we can’t blame anyone, because a long hot shower is sometimes just what the doctor ordered after a long day of work, responsibilities, and stress. But hot water can irritate the skin, causing redness or peeling. It could even exacerbate a condition called cholinergic urticaria—tiny hives caused by increased body temperature.

RELATED: These Common Purple Shampoo Mistakes Can Cause Serious Hair Damage–Here’s What To Do Instead

Showering with overly-hot water can also strip the skin of natural oils, leaving your skin dry and flaky. It’s best to take a warm to lukewarm (or even cool) shower to increase circulation and decrease inflammation. Cold showers have been shown to boost your immune system, relieve symptoms of depression, and improve circulation. But there can be risks to taking cold showers, especially if you have heart disease, so do your research before turning down the temperature.

2. Excessively Long Showers 

Showering for too long can lead to infections because it strips the skin’s natural barriers. Short showers—preferably less than 10 minutes—with lukewarm water will help protect your skin. If you spend 30 to 45 minutes in the shower, you might want to reevaluate (also, that’s a lot of water!).

Using a gentle moisturizer afterward will replace hydration that even a short shower can take away. Try something without a strong scent or harsh ingredients—Eight Saints makes a good one.

3. Washing Too Aggressively

If you’re prone to scrubbing with a loofah or washcloth, you might be damaging your skin. Additionally, if your products are too harsh, your skin could suffer. Choose products without strong fragrances. Try a mild, gentle soap or shower gel like Cetaphil Moisturizing Relief Body Wash for Sensitive Skin.

You may also want to re-examine your use of loofahs or other cleansing pads—they are great at harboring bacteria, so clean them at least once a week. The same goes for washcloths—wash and replace them regularly.

4. Not Rinsing Completely

In addition to washing too aggressively, if you rush through the end of your shower and don’t rinse off completely, the leftover residue could dry out and irritate your skin. Leftover suds can also trigger skin conditions like eczema or contact dermatitis.

RELATED: Do Baths Really Get You Clean? The Interesting Answer May Surprise You

This is particularly true when it comes to the more sensitive parts of your body. There are a few potential solutions to this: Rinse those nooks and crannies extra well (gently, with lukewarm water), use less soap in the first place, or use an extra gentle cleanser.

5. Showering Too Often

Many of us were programmed to think we need to shower at least once a day. But in reality, that might not be necessary unless you’re really working up a daily sweat. Again, showering too often can strip the skin of oils, leaving you with itchy, dry, skin.

But be aware that showering too infrequently can also cause skin problems. Dirt, sweat, and dead skin cell buildup could result in acne, psoriasis, or dermatitis. So while it’s a good idea to shower after exercising or a hot, active day outside, skipping a day is probably fine if you’ve been inactive most of the day.

6. After-Shower Mistakes

If you haven’t replaced your towels in a while, your towels might be too rough and irritating, not drying you properly, or unable to absorb water. Your drying-off technique might also be to blame. It’s best to gently pat your skin dry after stepping out of the shower, followed by an unscented moisturizer.

If you’ve tried all of the above and your skin is still irritated, make sure to mention it to your doctor or dermatologist. There could be an underlying cause, including menopause. A dermatologist can help you discover what’s really getting under your skin.

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The Secret To This 55-Year-Old Makeup Artist’s Amazing Skin? A Phytoestrogen Serum https://www.suggest.com/serum-for-estrogen-depleted-skin-over-50/2672172/ Thu, 08 Sep 2022 22:35:00 +0000 https://www.suggest.com/?p=2672172 Makeup artist Michelle Spieler holds a bottle of Paula's Choice phytoestrogen serum

If you’re like me, you’ve noticed some changes in the mirror lately. I’m seeing fine lines and lax skin in my late thirties, and I am not ready. I know this is only the beginning of what the aging process has in store for me. I try to embrace the privilege of growing older, but it’s not always easy.

Environmental factors including sun exposure, pollution, and sub-optimal nutrition are likely partly to blame for my changing face. Then there are hormonal fluctuations: Lower estrogen levels mean less collagen (yes, estrogen levels can start to drop in your 30s!). With all these factors at play, it seems like a good time to update my skincare routine.

Spotting And Treating Estrogen Depleted Skin

We produce 1 percent less collagen every year after turning 20, and in our 30s or early 40s, the estrogen drop begins. Estrogen-depleted skin looks duller, drier, and more lax. It might also look thinner, and it may seem like wrinkles appear overnight. But makeup artist Michelle Spieler says we’re not entirely at the mercy of our estrogen levels.

RELATED: Restore Menopausal Skin With This Innovative Skin Care Line That Doesn’t Use Hormones

The 55-year-old influencer has been in the beauty business for 25 years, having served as a makeup artist for TV shows including New Girl and Sons of Anarchy. These days Spieler shares makeup and skincare tips for mature women.

In a recent reel, she shares that she just had a major birthday. “I just turned 55 this week. And while I love the confidence that comes along with it, nobody prepared me for estrogen-depleted skin. But it’s OK. Paula’s Choice is here to help.”

The serum contains science-backed ingredients like antioxidants and phytoestrogens (estrogen-like compounds derived from plants) which improve the appearance of skin’s texture and elasticity. A non-hormonal treatment, this serum is fragrance-free, cruelty-free, and Leaping Bunny certified.

Paula’s Choice is the brainchild of Paula Begoun, who founded her company after years of trying products that she found didn’t work. She wanted to create smart, safe, and research-backed skincare, and Clinical Phytoestrogen Elasticity Renewal Face Serum is one of them. Formulated with equol, daidzein, and genistein, the product smoothes, hydrates, and improves skin’s suppleness. In an independent clinical study, 86% of women agreed that their skin looked less crepey, smoother, and less thin.

One Amazon customer said, “I’m only a few weeks into using Paula’s Choice CLINICAL Phytoestrogen Elasticity Renewal Face Serum but I really like what I see and feel. The light lotion texture smoothes on easily and absorbs quickly. My face feels soft, moisturized, and comfortable.”

We love this option of a non-hormonal serum that will help your skin look and feel its best. Spieler ends her reel by saying, “Oh, I forgot! This works with all your other ‘actives.’ It works with vitamin C, it works with retinol, so it can be used with everything. It plays nice!”

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A Damaged Skin Barrier Can Have Adverse Health Effects—Here’s How To Strengthen It https://www.suggest.com/skin-barrier-repair-babor-multi-vitamin-serum/2671574/ Mon, 05 Sep 2022 16:45:00 +0000 https://www.suggest.com/?p=2671574 Graphic hexagons over a woman's face highlighting skin damage.

Whether your hair is naturally thin, has been damaged due to excessive styling, or has been breaking as a result of life events, I think it’s safe to say most of us are focused on strengthening our hair. From detoxifying scalp treatments to specialized shampoos and conditioners, there are countless products on the market that tout hair-strengthening properties.

When it comes to our skin, though, many of us tend to have a “fix and improve” state of mind. This needs to change. Strengthening your skin is just as important as strengthening your hair, your nails, and even your muscles! Here’s how you do it.

The Importance Of Your Skin Barrier

The outmost layer of our skin, called the stratum corneum, contains tough skin cells that form what is commonly known as our skin barrier.

Our skin barrier is much more important than we give it credit for. For one, it helps protect our bodies from environmental toxins and pathogens that could otherwise penetrate the other layers of skin and cause adverse effects. Secondly, it provides a barrier that keeps the water inside our bodies from evaporating, which otherwise could lead to severe dehydration.

Yet our skin faces threats daily, many of which can weaken our skin barriers. Some common culprits include:

  • Over-exfoliating or over-washing of the skin.
  • Getting too much sun exposure.
  • Environments that are overly humid or dry.
  • Certain allergens and pollutants.
  • Alkaline-based detergents and soaps.
  • Being overly stressed.

To protect and even strengthen your skin barrier, making lifestyle changes is just one part of the equation. Your skincare routine can make a big difference, too.

The Best Ingredients To Strengthen The Skin Barrier

Niacinamide, also known as Vitamin B3, can assist in strengthening the skin’s barrier by stimulating the synthesis of ceramides within the skin.

Studies also suggest that calcium, which is present in skin tissue, plays “a crucial role in keratinocyte differentiation, barrier formation, wound healing, and skin barrier homeostasis.”

Luckily, we found a product that combines these two powerful ingredients along with Vitamin C, biotin, and other skin-loving nutrients that deliver concentrated results to improve the look and health of skin.

RELATED: Your SPF-Infused Makeup Isn’t Actually Protecting Your Skin–Here’s What Experts Say You Should Do

BABOR is an internationally-acclaimed cosmetics brand that has been creating well-loved products for over 60 years. Known as the number one professional skincare company in Europe, the company is dedicated to creating clean but effective beauty products that are good for both you and the environment.

One impressive product, in particular, is their Multi-Vitamin Ampoule Serum. This high-dose seven-day treatment is packed with vitamins to help strengthen the skin’s barrier, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and give skin a radiant glow.

Niacinamide and calcium work together to strengthen the skin’s barrier, while Vitamin E assists with providing protection against free radicals. Vitamin C and thiotaine work together to create a radiant glow, while Vitamins A, B5, and biotin also assist in restoring healthy skin.

In a self-assessment of 35 test subjects, after just seven days, 100% reported their skin felt nourished, 95% said their skin looked healthier, and 92% said their skin appeared more vibrant.

Free from all the stuff we’ve come to hate such as silicon, parabens, and mineral oil, the vegan multi-vitamin concentrate is packaged in individual use vials the company says is for maximum potency. The seven-day treatment is perfect for when your skin is particularly stressed or damaged and is in need of a serious pick-me-up.

Additionally, BABOR has a whole line of serums targeting specific areas of concern. Some popular formulas include their Hydra Plus Serum, Perfect Glow Serum, and Collagen Concentrate Serum.

The Hyrda Plus Serum is perfect for parched skin looking for a serious moisture boost. The Perfect Glow Serum is targeted to those looking to even out blemishes, discoloration, hyperpigmentation, or dark spots. Lastly, the Collagen Concentrate Serum helps to support skin’s natural collagen production to provide a firming effect.

Probably the most exciting thing about BABOR’s concentrated serums is that they are all designed to be seven-day intensive skin treatments. I don’t know about you, but I can get pretty impatient when it comes to skincare, so knowing that results are promised to be almost instantaneous is definitely appealing.

Many of us probably had our fair share of environmental skin damage from long days of fun in the sun this summer. If your skin is feeling tired, dry, and less radiant, perhaps BABOR’s Multi-Vitamin Ampoule Serum could be just the thing it needs.

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This ‘Facial In A Jar’ Is The Next Best Thing To Professional Microderm For Brightening And Smoothing Skin https://www.suggest.com/goopglow-microderm-instant-glow-exfoliator-review/2670861/ Fri, 26 Aug 2022 21:33:02 +0000 https://www.suggest.com/?p=2670861 GOOPGENES Microderm Instant Glow Exfoliator jar

I am a lifelong exfoliation addict, for better or worse. When I was in my teens and acne-prone, I couldn’t get enough of those crushed apricot seeds and whatever other gritty substances they put in cleansers in the ‘80s. 

The harder I scrubbed, the better my skin would look—or so I thought.

We now know that’s not true—one can certainly over-scour and cause tiny tears in the skin. There is a balance between aggressive exfoliation and effective cleansing.

As I’ve gotten older (I’m 54), I’m still a devoted exfoliator. Even if I’m no longer struggling with acne, my pores still become clogged, and blackheads can be an issue. 

Plus, when blemishes say goodbye, wrinkles say hello. Sometimes they decide to hang out together! Luckily, some skincare ingredients, like glycolic acid, address both issues. 

At-Home Microdermabrasion

A good, though expensive (the average cost is $167) solution to all of the above can be professional microdermabrasion facials, during which an aesthetician employs a machine with a tube attached to an abrasive rotating ball (usually made of diamond or crystal) which together sand and suck away the outer layer of your skin, clearing pores, and stimulating cell turnover. 

But I haven’t been to an aesthetician since before the pandemic, and I miss the way my face felt baby’s-butt-smooth after a professional microderm facial.

Jar of GOOPGLOW microderm instant glow exfoliator
(goop)

So I was excited to test out the GOOPGLOW Microderm Instant Glow Exfoliator, Gwyneth calls it her “facial in a jar” so how could I not want to give it a try? (If you’d also like to try it, use the discount suggest15 for 15% off, exclusive to Suggest readers and better than goop’s first-time customer discount!)

The Power Of Crystals

It’s a clean formula that I found provides the perfect balance between that pore-cleansing feeling and being kind to your skin.

Like the microderm machine, goop’s exfoliating product contains crystals including quartz and garnet, plus alumina and silica to polish and buff. 

It also contains glycolic acid, which is the gold standard in chemical exfoliation to remove dead skin and encourage cell turnover. It’s great whether you’re dealing with breakouts, dull skin, or lines. 

Australian Kakadu plum is another key ingredient. It has 100 times more vitamin C than an orange and has amazing brightening powers.

Closeup of GOOPGLOW microderm instant glow exfoliator's texture
(goop)

After massaging the fluffy yet grainy product into my damp skin, I had no doubt it was cleansing my pores. Leaving it on for three minutes allows the glycolic acid to get to work. (I’ve gotten into the habit of making coffee during this waiting period.) 

After thoroughly rinsing, my skin really did feel as smooth as a baby’s you-know-what. I was surprised to find a difference in the appearance of my skin after just one use. My skin looked glowy and had more color and life to it. 

Kristen Phillipkoski's before and after photos demonstrating's GOOPGLOW micoderm instant glow exfoliator's effects
The before photo was taken Monday after the first use, the after one was taken Friday after 3rd use. No filter was used.

Clean, Proven Ingredients

You don’t have to just take it from me: goop has data to back up its claims. In a third-party study of 28 women ages 27 to 50, after one use, 94% said their skin looked and felt smoother, 92% said their skin texture improved and that their skin looked and felt polished, 91% said their skin looked and felt softer, and 91% said their complexion was fresher and clearer.

And if you’re worried those fine crystals might somehow hurt your skin, goop has numbers on that as well. A third-party study found that after just one use, 92% of women showed improvement in skin barrier function—which means the product does not cause micro-tears on the surface of the skin but, in fact, helps strengthen the skin’s barrier. 

After a week of use, a patch of hyperpigmentation on my upper left cheek is less noticeable and smoother. The blackheads on my nose are diminished, and I can even jump on an early video call without foundation. But when I do apply makeup, it goes on smoother than ever.

Open jar of GOOPGLOW microderm instant glow exfoliator
(goop)

I also like to get my lips in on the act, giving them a little scrub along with the rest of my face. Applying GOOPGENES clean nourishing lip balm afterward feels and looks divine. 

You should also know what the GOOPGLOW Microderm Instant Glow Exfoliator does not contain: sulfates (both SLS and SLES), parabens, formaldehydes, formaldehyde-releasing agents, phthalates, mineral oil, retinyl palmitate, oxybenzone, coal tar, hydroquinone, triclosan, and triclocarban. It also contains less than one percent of synthetic fragrances. It’s vegan, cruelty-free, and gluten-free, so yay for all of that. 

Overall, I’m calling this an essential new addition to my skincare routine. My husband will just have to get used to my morning marshmallow-face appearances in the kitchen. Hey, at least I’m making coffee. 

Give it a try yourself, and get an exclusive (and rare!) 15% discount with the code suggest15—valid through December 31, 2022, on any goop-owned product (excluding bundles). 

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With Only 8 Ingredients, Shoppers Praise This All-In-One Eye Cream For Delivering Noticeable Results Fast https://www.suggest.com/eight-saints-all-in-eye-cream-review/2669228/ Tue, 23 Aug 2022 20:30:00 +0000 https://www.suggest.com/?p=2669228 Eight Saints under eye cream

The sheer volume of skin care products available these days can be dizzying. The complexity of their ingredients can be even more so. If you’re not a chemist, it’s difficult to decipher natural versus synthetic, and what ingredients might be more likely to cause allergic reactions.

Eight Saints hopes to simplify your search for clean, natural, plant-based skincare by creating products that contain only eight ingredients. The products are also organic and made in the USA in responsibly-sourced small batches.

Eight Saints’ skincare line includes everything from night cream to vitamin C serum to body spray lotion.

But one product stands out among the others as a customer favorite: reviewers have dubbed Eight Saints All In Eye Cream the “holy grail” of eye creams.

Natural And Organic All In Eye Cream

Instead of overhyped “miracle” ingredients that don’t work, Eight Saints focuses only on the ones that do. Namely, they use antioxidants, vitamin E, hyaluronic acid, peptides, vitamin C, MSM, glycolic acid, and squalane.

Reviewers say the All In Eye Cream provides real results without compromising your daily beauty routine with toxic synthetics and chemical fillers.

The eight simple but effective ingredients work together to provide the best results possible. This powerful eye cream minimizes expression lines, signs of aging, under eye bags, and reduces dark circles. Additionally, its powerful hydration smooths away wrinkles and re-plumps the skin. Caffeine also works to reduce puffiness and dark circles.

Best of all, this all-natural organic eye cream works for all skin types. And thanks to its lightweight nature, the cream absorbs quickly, leaving no greasy residue.

“This All In eye cream really does go all in,” writes one reviewer, adding that over the years they have tried several eye creams, but this one takes first place. “This cream has made my hollowed bags look a little more plump as well as not so deep in color, just ten days in.”

Another wrote, “nothing has ever worked to reduce my morning puffiness and dark circles like this cream!” One customer even noted that after using the cream, “my makeup doesn’t sink into the little lines like it would before.”

Eight Saints guarantees effective, natural, and clean beauty skincare products—without all the hype.

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Shifting Hormones In Midlife Can Make Your Skin Feel Like It’s Aged Overnight https://www.suggest.com/solutions-shifting-hormones-perimenopause-changing-skin/2669331/ Fri, 19 Aug 2022 20:45:00 +0000 https://www.suggest.com/?p=2669331 A woman looking in the mirror touching her face and examining her skin.

I’ve been in perimenopause for a couple of years now, and the changes in my body are constantly surprising me. From irregular periods to vaginal dryness to hot flashes, new symptoms are popping up all of the time, but what’s caught me off guard is the changes in my skin.

The hormonal changes that take place in midlife during perimenopause and menopause wreak havoc on our bodies, and our skin tends to bear the brunt of it. Hormones can trigger everything from acne outbreaks to dry and itchy skin—and of course fine lines. Yes, shifting hormones in midlife can make your skin feel like it’s aged overnight.

How These Hormonal Changes Affect Your Skin

During perimenopause—which starts for most women in their 40s and can last anywhere from a few months to ten years—estrogen levels start to decline. This can cause dramatic shifts in skin quality. This effect is then magnified in our mid-40s and 50s when we go into menopause, explained London-based dermatologist Dr. Jonquille Chantrey to Shape.

“Lowered estrogen levels alter collagen and elastin production, weakening the dermis and reducing hydration levels,” Dr. Chantrey says.

All of these changes cause a loss of volume and elasticity in the skin, and that’s what leads to fine lines, wrinkles, and laxity.

“When women see these symptoms, they often say they feel like they aged a decade overnight,” Dr. Chantrey says.

RELATED: You’re Not Crazy, It’s Perimenopause Rage: Women Open Up About Their Experiences, And How To Spot It In Yourself

In a woman’s life, hormone production ebbs and flows in pre-puberty, puberty, pregnancy, and post-pregnancy. This also happens during perimenopause and menopause.

Every cell in the human body has the genetic material needed to produce hormones. The hormones that affect the skin are mostly produced by the adrenal and pituitary glands, which are located in the brain and sexual gonads (ovaries and testicles).

Since the hormones that act on the skin are produced by glands located in our ovaries, symptoms like acne breakouts and extreme dryness are common.

But these proteins aren’t on a mission to destroy your complexion. Skin changes are often side effects of hormones simply doing their job somewhere else in your body. Those hormones that triggered your body to menstruate and procreate become imbalanced during perimenopause. And eventually, those levels just plummet. For many of us, that significant drop will cause the skin’s oil glands to produce pimples and then shut off, which causes dryness.

Ways You Can Combat These Changes

Now that we know the common changes that can happen to our skin during perimenopause and menopause, the question is: what can we do about it? The first thing to do is consult your doctor.

A visit to the OBGYN can familiarize you with treatment options, like hormone replacement therapy (HRT), which can mitigate the dryness that plagues us during perimenopause. There are also topical solutions that can be extremely helpful when it comes to alleviating the symptoms of hormonal fluctuations.

Empelle Serum may be pricey, but that is because it uses proprietary technology that the brand says safely and effectively replenishes the health and vitality of estrogen-deficient skin. The product is lightweight, reinvigorating, oil-free, fast absorbing, and clinically proven.

100% of study participants showed improvement with skin hydration after using Empelle Serum. Well over half saw a reduction in the appearance of wrinkles, and a whopping 93% said it improved their skin’s overall appearance after just eight weeks of use.

For those who have already seen advanced signs of aging on the skin, Biopelle Tensage Advanced Cream Growth Factor Moisturizer might be worth the investment. This is a daily use, highly emollient, and richly textured cream that’s made for mature skin with signs of sun damage.

The key ingredients in this formula are antioxidants, Vitamins C & E, hyaluronic acid, and glycoproteins, as well as “SCA biorepair” technology, which is derived from snails and contains growth factors. Apply it daily to hydrate and brighten your skin.

Address fine lines, wrinkles, dark circles, and under-eye puffiness with EltaMD Renew Eye Gel. This hydrating eye cream features peptides and hyaluronic acid to help reduce the appearance of skin aging while generating brighter, healthier-looking skin.

The Organic RENEW Pure Radiance Face Oil is True Botanicals’ best-selling moisturizer, and it has been clinically proven to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles while increasing the skin’s hydration levels. Most creams and lotions just sit on the skin’s surface, but Pure Radiance Oil delivers nutrients to the skin’s deeper layers and gets down to where the issues begin.

If you are looking for a solution that’s perfectly tailored to your specific skin type and issues, look no further than Curology Custom Formula for Anti-Aging. You can boost your glow with a personalized Rx cream that is virtually prescribed for you by a doctor.

Your bespoke cream will contain a custom combination of ingredients, which can include tretinoin, niacinamide, tranexamic acid, and more. Tretinoin is a form of Vitamin A, and is one of the most powerful, clinically tested ingredients to reduce wrinkles, dark spots, and fine lines, as well as improve skin texture, and firmness.

Plus, you can try a 30-day supply of all recommended products for free, all you have to do is pay $4.95 for shipping and handling.

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Jennifer Aniston And Sandra Oh Swear By This Moisturizer That Shoppers Say Created ‘Permanent Changes’ To Their Skin https://www.suggest.com/jennifer-aniston-sandra-oh-swear-by-augustinus-bader-the-rich-cream/2667053/ Sat, 06 Aug 2022 20:45:00 +0000 https://www.suggest.com/?p=2667053 Side by side images of Jennifer Aniston and Sandra Oh both in black outfits at different red carpet events.

One of the many perks of being a Hollywood celebrity—other than making millions of dollars to play pretend on a movie or TV set—is access to products that can help them look their very best. That’s especially the case when it comes to skincare. And there is one product on the market that countless A-listers swear by—Augustinus Bader The Rich Cream.

Of course, celebrity status doesn’t make you an expert. But regular shoppers do agree that this luxury moisturizer has completely changed their skin for the better. Yes, it’s pricey. But, many are certain that this high-dollar skin cream is absolutely worth it.

Augustinus Bader The Rich Cream has been popping up all over social media in recent months. Everyone from Jennifer Aniston to Lily Aldridge to Victoria Beckham to Sandra Oh is swearing by this “essential” high-end moisturizer.

Supermodel Karen Elson—a self-proclaimed “high-end beauty addict”—has called Augustinus Bader The Rich Cream the “secret elixir” for her skin that tends to be her “go-to for all things.”

RELATED: Elizabeth Olsen ‘Swears By’ This Jennifer Aniston-Approved Device To Tighten And Brighten Skin

The brand credits TFC-8 technology as the reason this moisturizer is so effective. They say it sends your stem cells into repair mode with a mix of ceramides, peptides, amino acids, vitamins C and E, and cholesterol. Also helping to achieve that plump and silky skin is hyaluronic acid, squalane, and shea butter. 

According to a 55-year-old cellular biologist on the Nordstrom website, this mix of ingredients has created “permanent changes” in her skin that has left it “unbelievably even-toned and hydrated.”

Other reviews indicate that it takes just a tiny amount to see “visibly smoother wrinkles” and “way less prominent” dry patches.

“I thought it might be too heavy and thick for my skin. I was wrong. It is a thick, rich cream but it does go into the skin easily, and honestly, the first time I used it I could instantly see my skin had plumped,” one reviewer shared. 

Another added, “Hands down the best cream I have ever tried and I’ve tried them all. Yes it is expensive but worth every penny. Your skin is smooth, hydrated, and glowing. It just works and you don’t need much.”

Augustinus Bader The Rich Cream is available in multiple sizes, from a 0.5 ounce bottle, the standard 1 ounce bottle, or a larger 1.7 ounce bottle. Buying the larger size will definitely help you save a few bucks, and it will be an investment that pays off immediately. 

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This Skincare Infused SPF Foundation Made My Skin Look Better Even After I Took It Off https://www.suggest.com/pur-4-in-1-mineral-makeup-line-revie/2666406/ Tue, 02 Aug 2022 21:45:00 +0000 https://www.suggest.com/?p=2666406 PÜR 4-in-1 mineral foundations with a makeup brush

Hot girl summer is here! During busy mornings and hot summer days, I’m not in the mood to wear a ton of makeup. As a matter of fact, summer is the perfect time to sweat-proof your look and give your skin a well-deserved break.  For summertime fun in the sun, multitasking products are my favorite.

Skincare should be the primary focus of beauty. Many prioritize it over makeup, so finding a product that won’t clog pores and cause irritation is critical. This summer I found a 4-in-1 multi-tasking product that acts as foundation, concealer, pressed powder, and SPF 15 protection. The days of layering on multiple products are over!  I’ll never buy another foundation again.

Best of all, this comfortable, breathable, lightweight formula is easily buildable, making it ideal for summer. 

PÜR 4-In-1 Pressed Mineral Makeup SPF 15 Powder Foundation

It’s easy to see why PÜR’s multitasking, 4-in-1 Pressed Mineral Makeup PowderFoundation has become one of the company’s best-selling products. By incorporating skincare into the foundation, you’ll save time and money while keeping your skin looking and feeling great. Clinically proven to prevent your biggest skin concerns, this formula includes foundation, concealer, setting powder, and SPF 15.

With this lightweight, 4-in-1 mineral foundation, you can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. An impressive blend of retinol, lactic acid, shea butter, and ceramide effectively improves skin tone and texture.

With medium buildable coverage, this vegan, hypoallergenic foundation comes in 26 shades ranging from fair ivory to dark cocoa. The natural finish powder has a beautifully light, feathery texture which makes it a delight to wear. 

The makeup does well to not show up flaky, cakey, or settle in fine lines or wrinkles. Additionally, it diminishes dark circles, redness, uneven skin tone, and hyperpigmentation, as well as firming, lifting, and plumping the skin. Talk about a true multitasker!

Although the 4-in-1 Pressed Mineral Makeup Powder Foundation is the holy grail of summer beauty, you can enhance it with other products in their 4-in1 line.

No makeup look is complete without the right prep work, such as PÜR’s 4-in-1 Correcting Primer. Bursting with beneficial ingredients such as probiotics, aloe vera, caffeine, and coconut water, the Energize and Rescue formula smooths and soothes your skin. Plus, the primer is also available in redness-reducing and mattifying formulas as well.

Infused with superfood ingredients, PÜR’s medium-to-full coverage 4-in-1 Sculpting Concealer conceals imperfections while helping to lock in hydration to help plump the skin and brighten dark spots.

A gel-to-water hydration essence moisturizer, PÜR’s 4-in-1 Cloud Cream promises dreamy moisture. With four benefits in one, this heavenly luscious cream hydrates, soothes, smooths, and primes the skin. The cloud cream instantly brightens, tightens, lifts, and preps the skin for flawless makeup application.

With PÜR’s smart and effective 4-in-1 line, enjoy brighter, smoother, and more even skin, even when you take your makeup off.

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Laura Linney’s Skincare Routine Doesn’t Contain ‘Any Magic Elixir,’ Just These Simple But Powerful Products https://www.suggest.com/laura-linney-skincare-routine-clarins/2661053/ Tue, 12 Jul 2022 16:05:00 +0000 https://www.suggest.com/?p=2661053 Laura Linney smiling at the Ozark season 4 premiere.

An interview with award-winning actress Laura Linney revealed the skincare routine that keeps her looking radiant. But the Ozark actress swears her youthful glow isn’t the result of some magic elixir. ‌Rather, her secret lies in what she chooses not to do, paired with a few simple yet powerful products she always has‌ ‌in‌ ‌her‌ ‌arsenal.

Linney attributes a significant part of her youthful appearance to her health and wellness habits. ‌She rides her Peloton bike at least three days a week as part of her regular exercise regimen. ‌Pilates is another passion of hers. ‌

Though she enjoys getting outside for a hike every now and then, she admits she rarely soaks up the sun. “I get no sun. I grew up in the theater so I was inside my whole childhood and so, yeah, no sun. And I don’t drink,” she told Andy Cohen on What What Happens Live.

While these are just a few of her secrets to ageless skin, the Hollywood actress has also been reported to use Clarins skincare. Although Clarins does not contain ‘magic elixirs,’ its products do contain soothing plant-based ingredients that offer real solutions.

How To Achieve A Natural Dewy Glow

Though Linney admits that she will stay ageless simply by washing her face, she has a few tricks up her sleeve besides that, and they are equally simple. 

In a 2021 press release, Jenn Streicher, Linney’s makeup artist for the 78th Golden Globes Awards, outlined the Clarins products she used to achieve a natural, glowing look. In particular, Streicher wanted Linney’s skin to be the star of the show, and using the right products for prep was key.

To start, Streicher turned to ‌Clarins‌ ‌Hydrating‌ ‌Toning‌ ‌Lotion. ‌A blend of organic fig extracts and hydrating aloe vera makes this toning lotion ideal for normal to dry skin. ‌

Also, an exclusive Micobiote Complex helps re-establish a healthy balance in the skin’s natural microbiota, making skin feel smooth, soft‌, and‌ ‌radiant.

Streicher followed up the hydrating toning lotion with‌ ‌Clarins‌ ‌Double Serum.  

Boosting the complexion’s natural glow, Clarins Double Serum is a fountain of youth for all skin types. ‌The‌ ‌award-winning‌ ‌serum‌ ‌visibly reduces wrinkles, promotes skin fitness, revives radiance, hydrates, smooths, and tightens‌ ‌pores. In addition, it contains an impressive 21 plant ingredients, including the antioxidant turmeric.

To provide an instant eye lift, Streicher turned to Clarins’ award-winning Total Eye Lift which delivers noticeable results in as little as 60 seconds.

This hard-working eye cream combats wrinkles, crow’s feet, dark circles,‌ ‌and persistent‌ ‌puffiness. ‌You’ll want to stock up on this all-in-one eye cream for its ability to deliver stunning results instantaneously and even better results with continued use.

According to Streicher, the final step for a stunning, glowing complexion involved two key products, the first being Clarins Blue Orchid Face Treatment Oil.

RELATED: Sarah Jessica Parker Credits This Dermatologist-Backed Skincare Line For Her Graceful Aging, And Shoppers Agree

Blue orchid and patchouli essential oils combine to hydrate and restore skin’s radiance, tone, and vitality in the Blue Orchid Face Treatment Oil. ‌Hazelnut oil, vitamin E, and Omega 9 work together to soften and soothe skin, as well as minimize‌ ‌fine‌ ‌lines.

Steicher mixed a few drops of the Blue Orchid Oil in with Clarins‌ ‌Rose Radiance‌ ‌Cream. This powerful 3-in-1 daily moisturizer helps to smooth skin, improve tone and texture, and boost luminosity thanks to the addition of Vitamin C.

The final step before makeup application consisted of applying a smoothing primer all over Linney’s face, especially on the T-zone.

Known for its incomparable melting texture, the Clarins Instant Smoothing Perfecting Touch primer glides over the skin to leave it looking smooth, silky, and photo-ready. Furthermore, the formula is specifically designed to reduce fine lines, wrinkles, and enlarged pores instantly.

It’s no surprise that Streicher relied on Clarins to create a dewy complexion for Linney. Founded in 1954, the brand has been dedicated to understanding women’s needs and creating sustainable, effective solutions. Inspired by nature, Clarins focused on plant-based ingredients to nourish skin inside and out. The result is healthy skin that truly glows–just ask Laura Linney.

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Mandy Moore Shares Her Secret To Healthy Skin After Wearing Heavy Makeup On ‘This Is Us’ https://www.suggest.com/mandy-moore-natural-vegan-skincare-dr-loretta-osea/2660923/ Tue, 12 Jul 2022 15:35:00 +0000 https://www.suggest.com/?p=2660923 Mandy Moore arrives for the 'Midway' World Premiere on November 05, 2019 in Westwood, CA

This Is Us fans know that Mandy Moore put her skin through it while playing family matriarch Rebecca Pearson. For six seasons, the 38-year-old endured long days of wearing heavy makeup to play the lead character in a time-jumping series who aged all the way through to her late 70s. 

The self-described “real girly girl”, who has always been a proponent of good skincare, has shared the go-to skincare products that she used to hydrate her skin after those long days on set. She says she made one simple, game-changing skincare adjustment that has given her glowing skin—she switched to only clean, vegan, natural products.

“I’ve been leaning more on the healthy clean products and my skin loves it,” Moore told Prevention. “I love lotions and potions and products. I’m a real girly girl in that sense, but I’ve kind of abandoned anything that isn’t clean, and I feel a difference.”

So, which products does she use? And how would they benefit your skincare routine? Keep reading to find out.

Mandy Moore’s Must-Have Product Duo For Hydrated Skin

The actress and new mom says that on top of frequently wearing heavy makeup for her job, her skin also has to deal with the dry California air where she lives. Living in that dry environment has put Moore on the constant hunt for ways to keep her skin hydrated and moisturized.

She says she’s been “leaning on oils a little bit more” to keep her skin from drying out. And while starring on This Is Us, her go-to product duo was Dr. Loretta Gentle Hydrating Cleanser and Dr. Loretta Urban Antioxidant Sunscreen SPF 40.

The Hydrating Cleanser will gently remove impurities and makeup while calming and hydrating your skin. And it will do it without stripping your face of the existing natural oils. This cleanser features marine peptides that boost skin’s hydration, plus chamomile essential oil to nourish and soothe redness and irritation.

Moore uses the Antioxidant Sunscreen every day to protect her skin from pollution and harmful sun rays. But, that’s not the only reason. Thanks to the antioxidant known as lipochroman in the formula, this sunscreen also protects skin from free-radical damage that causes fine lines and age spots. 

What’s more, the peptides will hydrate and firm the skin, while the zinc oxide protects it from UVA/UVB irritants.

It’s Not Just About The Face

Moore also uses clean, vegan products to nourish and hydrate the rest of the skin on her body. She loves Osea Undaria Algae Body Oil, which is both lightweight and non-greasy.

RELATED: Reese Witherspoon, Mandy Moore Fans Of This Skincare Tool That Delivers Unbelievable Results

In addition to hydrating the skin, this body oil will also reduce the appearance of stretch marks.

Another product in her skincare arsenal is Osea Anti-Aging Body Balm. It’s a safflower seed- and coconut oil-based “ultra-nourishing body moisturizer that firms and improves the appearance of elasticity, leaving skin supple with a radiant glow.”

This is a rejuvenator that will give your skin a more youthful appearance. One study showed that after just one use, 94 percent of participants agreed that their skin felt nourished, moisturized, and softer, while looking smoother, more supple, and glowing.

For an at-home, luxurious spa treatment, Moore’s pick is Osea Salts of the Earth Body Scrub. When you need a little something extra to fight dry skin, this moisturizer and exfoliator will do the trick and leave your skin feeling silky smooth. 

Talk about self-care! This head-to-toe body scrub will wash away any and all roughness with its blend of Dead Sea, Bolivian Rose, and Himalayan pink salts. Then the shea butter will hydrate the skin and give you that silky smooth feeling, while the babassu and avocado oils work to firm it.

This product works for all skin types, especially dry and dull skin. And, it doubles as the perfect primer before shaving. 

Switch to clean, vegan skincare products like Moore to get the glowing, nourished, moisturized skin you’ve always dreamed of. They truly are a game-changer.

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Pamper Your Skin With These Incredible Skin Care Deals Available During Amazon Prime Days https://www.suggest.com/amazon-prime-days-skincare-product-deals-2022/2715235/ Tue, 12 Jul 2022 10:35:00 +0000 https://www.suggest.com/amazon-prime-days-skincare-product-deals-2022/2715235/ Assorted skincare products

Getting supple, glowing skin doesn’t always require going under the needle or on a quest for the fountain of youth. Most of the time, all it takes is the right products. Of course, this “simple” solution usually comes with a price—literally. 

But thanks to Amazon Prime Days’ amazing skincare deals, you can get high-end products (read: results) without the high price tags. These luxuriously pampering products will make your skin look and feel better than ever.

Sunday Riley’s C.E.O. Glow is a potent blend of vitamin C, turmeric, red raspberry seed oil, ginger, evening primrose, and jojoba oil. Its heavy-hitting ingredients even and brighten skin tone, deliver intense hydration, and provide a noticeable glow to tired, dull skin. This daily face oil can be used before your favorite moisturizer for a vibrant, youthful look.

Cleansing is great, but adding a toner is even better. Mario Badescu’s Glycolic Acid Toner brightens and balances the skin post-cleanse with glycolic acid, grapefruit, and aloe. This rejuvenating formula diminishes the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone. So, you can enjoy a more radiant complexion with even less makeup—a win-win.

Vichy is a doctor-founded brand committed to providing highly effective, clinically proven products. Its Mineral 89 Gel Moisturizer contains powerful, pure hyaluronic acid and 89% mineral-rich Vichy Volcanic Water. While the hyaluronic acid hydrates and plumps the skin, the volcanic water strengthens and repairs the skin barrier. As a result, skin looks and feels softer, more supple, and more luminous.

As our bodies age, our skin loses elasticity, which directly affects its visible tone and texture. Consequently, skin can become dry and crépey, particularly the arms, legs, knees, and chest. Crépe Erase Body Repair Treatment is a powerful moisturizer that delivers an exclusive TruFirm Complex and nine super-hydrators deep in the skin for visibly plumper, younger-looking skin.

Like crépey skin, the lips can prematurely age one’s appearance. Laneige’s cult favorite Lip Sleeping Mask provides the lips with intense moisture and antioxidants while you get your beauty rest. The next morning, lips appear smoother and more supple. This ultra-nourishing lip treatment comes in five irresistible scents, including berry, vanilla, and gummy bear.

During the hottest part of the year, Evian’s Facial Spray does triple-duty. Use this ultra-fine mist after applying makeup for a smooth, naturally blended look. Or, you can use this facial spray midday or in the evening to refresh and revive hours-old makeup. Finally, this spray can be used to refresh and cool the face, making this a summer must-have.

Lots of snake oils and “miracle” products claim to make eyes appear more youthful. And considering how many signs of aging appear around the eyes, that’s a tall order. StriVectin deals with them all—crepey skin, dark circles, and puffiness. In a clinical study, Tighten & Lift Eye Serum improved 100% of users’ firmness, 96% of lines and wrinkles, and 93% of under-eye bags and puffiness.

Between SPF, color correctors, and moisturizers, that’s a lot of product to put on your face every day. So, why not use a product that does all three? Jane Iredale’s Dream Tint Tinted Moisturizer combines SPF 15 with a water-resistant, soft-focus foundation that minimizes the appearance of fine lines and pores.

A good skincare routine is only as good as its cleanser, and Elemis Cica’s Cleansing Foam packs a heavy punch. This lightly scented, foaming cleanser gently removes makeup and impurities without stripping and drying out the skin. Customers with oily, acne-prone skin and dry, flaky skin alike all love the soothing, hydrating effects of this powerful cleanser.

While gentle cleansers have their rightful place in a skincare routine, exfoliating peels do, too. These at-home face treatments remove dead skin cells, improving luminosity and minimizing enlarged pores. Perricone MD’s Exfoliating Peel removes dull skin cells to reveal plump, vibrant skin. One reviewer called this potent product “pure magic.”

Microdermabrasion is another great way to achieve fresh and radiant skin. PMD’s At-Home Microdermabrasion Machine uses a unique combination of exfoliating crystals and vacuum suction to improve the skin’s appearance. This all-in-one tool diminishes fine lines and wrinkles, pore size, blemishes, dark spots, and evens skin tone and texture.

Luxury brand Philosophy is committed to creating clean, eco-friendly formulas that are as gentle on the planet as they are on the skin. Its Nature In A Jar Warming Exfoliator uses jojoba and apricot oils to nourish and revitalize the skin while gently removing dry skin. The thick exfoliant has a subtle warming effect to soothe and increase the absorption capacity of the skin.

EltaMD is a dermatologist-recommended skincare brand for good reason. Its clinically proven products effectively improve the skin’s appearance within weeks of regular use, and its Renewal Anti-Aging Moisturizer is certainly no exception. This fragrance-free, paraben-free, and non-comedogenic moisturizer is fortified with ceramides, enzymes, and vitamins. The potent formula strengthens and restores the skin’s barrier for softer, smoother, healthier-looking skin.

There are a lot of retinol serums on the market, but Cosmedix’ 16 Rapid Renewal Serum stands in a league of its own. This powerful serum contains LG-Retinex, a blend of retinol and retinal in its most potent, stable form. While LG-Retinex brightens and improves skin tone, vitamin A helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

For all-over hydration and improvement, look no further than Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Skin Therapy Oil. This highly effective oil contains cocoa butter, vitamin E, sesame oil, rosehip oil, and argan oil. Together, these ingredients deeply nourish the skin while also improving the appearance of uneven skin tone, stretch marks, and other blemishes.

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Sarah Jessica Parker Credits This Dermatologist-Backed Skincare Line For Her Graceful Aging, And Shoppers Agree https://www.suggest.com/sarah-jessica-parker-roc-skincare-look-forward-project/2660640/ Sun, 10 Jul 2022 16:45:00 +0000 https://www.suggest.com/?p=2660640 Sarah Jessica Parker with updo

It would seem all of Hollywood is obsessed with aging, or rather, obsessed with not aging and decidedly looking forever young. And actresses and models, in particular, feel that pressure more than most.

However, there’s a growing group of women who have embraced aging naturally. Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Jamie Lee-Curtis, and Christy Turlington have all spoken about their dislike of the term anti-aging, and for good reason. These women are foregoing fillers and facelifts for less invasive skincare.

And actress Sarah Jessica Parker (SJP) has been leading the charge. She’s always been a proponent of embracing your age and all that comes with it. The Sex and The City star’s attitude towards aging is refreshing in a world that has become consumed with face-altering injectables, surgeries, and filters.

While Parker doesn’t fault anyone for going that route, she maintains that it’s not for her.

It’s even a topic they touch on in And Just Like That… because how could they not acknowledge the differences between characters at 50-something versus the characters we remember from 20 years ago? Parker’s character Carrie Bradshaw contemplating a facelift is understandable, but the fact they decide to keep her looking like herself is a welcome plot point.

RoC Is Dedicated To Inspiring Women To Look Forward

Just because she isn’t into procedures doesn’t mean she doesn’t love a good skincare routine. So, it’s not surprising she’s partnered with RoC skincare line as the spokesperson for its Look Forward Project, a new initiative that aims to shift the perspective of aging women.

RoC has partnered with women in healthcare—a dermatologist, psychologist, and molecular biologist—to start a new conversation about aging and the need for optimism. Along with these women, Parker (a lifelong self-proclaimed optimist) has become the face and voice of the movement.

“When I heard about RoC’s #LookForwardProject and its commitment to supporting women’s take on an optimistic outlook about the future, I felt compelled to help share this important conversation,” Parker said in her Instagram post.

The project encourages women to become more excited about the prospects of living and all the joys (and heartaches) that come along with it. But it’s not a toxic positivity movement either. It’s an initiative to help ease the anxiety about getting older and to welcome the changes that accompany aging.

RELATED: Laura Dern Went Makeup Free In Jurassic World Thanks To Radiant Face Oil She Calls ‘Magic In A Bottle’

The program started with data, asking 600 American and French women about their fears and anxieties about aging. A staggering 90% said they felt anxious about getting older, and the driving force behind their anxieties was related to their appearance—including those facial lines and wrinkles.

The movement inspires women to forego filters and retouching their photos, especially influencers, when using RoC products in their content in hopes of promoting a more realistic portrayal of women in all stages of life.

The #LookForwardProject is also joining forces with SeekHer Foundation, a nonprofit organization that advocates for women’s mental health. The organization champions women in all aspects of their lives by raising awareness of issues that women face. It also invests in women-led businesses and communities and funds research around mental health awareness. One hundred percent of the profits from the RoC X SJP Limited Edition Kit will go to SeekHer.

Clinically Proven Skincare That Has Been Loved For Years

RoC’s Look Forward Program is led by science, and that’s by design. The brand as a whole has always been clinically tested and has partnered with leading dermatologists paving the way for innovation in skincare.

The skincare line has a tradition of being the first to use novel and effective ingredients. Now loved skincare ingredients like retinol and broad-spectrum sunscreen were typically not available for over-the-counter use, but RoC made them accessible.

While the language around skincare could use some work, we are hopeful there will be a shift with similar initiatives. Wrinkles are a normal part of aging, but if you want to smooth and hydrate your skin, RoC products are the way to go!

Some of RoC’s most popular products include its Retinol Correxion Deep Wrinkle Targeted Patches, which improve the look of lines and wrinkles. These fragrance-free patches are clinically proven, and 100% of users reported improvement of wrinkles with continued use.

Another best-seller, the Deep Wrinkle Serum Cleanser provides a gentle cleanser that’s tough on dirt, oil, and long-wearing makeup resulting in firmer and smoother-looking skin.

RELATED: Facial Cupping Can Provide Instant Wrinkle Reduction As Long As You Follow This One Key Trick

Parker’s curated trio features the Multi Correxion Hydrate + Plump Eye Cream, Multi Correxion Hydrate + Plump Night Serum Capsules, and Multi Correxion Anti-Aging Moisturizer for Face with Broad Spectrum SPF 30.

RoC’s Multi Correxion Hydrate + Plump Eye Cream delivers three age-defying results. Peptides visibly firm and contour, 1.5% hyaluronic acid visibly fills in fine lines, and caffeine helps to de-puff the eye area.

Apply in small dots around the eye area and gently smooth until the cream is thoroughly absorbed. The cream can be used alone or under makeup in the morning and/or as part of your nighttime routine.

The Multi Correxion Hydrate + Plump Night Serum Capsules, with its fastest-acting hyaluronic acid, plump the skin and give a boost of hydration overnight. One hundred percent of surveyed users saw visibly plumper skin after just one use.

Twist open a capsule and smooth the serum over your cleansed face and neck at night. Follow with your nighttime moisturizer.

The Multi Correxion Anti-Aging Moisturizer for Face with Broad Spectrum SPF 30 gives you all-day hydration and protection from the sun’s harmful UV rays. The moisturizer features SPF 30 and hexinol technology, which improves the look of discoloration, sagging, dull tone, and wrinkles—all while protecting your face from future sun damage.

The Look Forward Project is hopefully just the beginning of a shift towards aging to a more optimistic future.

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Jennifer Segale on surviving colon cancer, dry farming, and her organic skincare line https://www.suggest.com/ep-45-jennifer-segale-on-surviving-colon-cancer-dry-farming-and-her-organic-skincare-line/2676429/ Sun, 03 Jul 2022 21:12:12 +0000 https://www.suggest.com/ep-45-jennifer-segale-on-surviving-colon-cancer-dry-farming-and-her-organic-skincare-line/2676429/ Jennifer Regale of Garden Apothecary and Wildflower Farms

I was surprised by this interview so many times: Dry farming with no electricity—what?Founding said farm at 16, and sticking with it for 23 years? Colon cancer diagnosis at 37, and beating the odds with a full recovery, thank heavens. Oh, and gray hair at 18!

Jennifer Lee Segale is a professional botanist and founder of Wildflower Farms, an organic landscape design and consulting company specializing in coastal plantings, edible gardens, habitat restoration and unique plant sourcing. She has a rich background in farming and plant propagation, and her design and consulting services focus on plant and soil care.

The farm’s no-till, dry-farmed medicinal herbs also supply Segale’s skincare and wellness brand Garden Apothecary, with two storefronts in Half Moon Bay, CA.

“Garden Apothecary is really set apart from other brands by our growing of ingredients and making everything in-house,” she says. “We really try to come from the plant’s perspective, with gentle growing techniques and minimal harvesting—thus being able to offer unique and sustainable products, with a lot of integrity behind them.”

Jenn lives by the beach with her husband, two step-children, piles of books and her two sweet dogs, Sorrel and Oolong.

Click through to the podcast to hear her story!

Links:

Wildflower Farms

Garden Apothecary

Wildflower Farms on Instagram

Garden Apothecary on Instagram

American Cancer Society—Colorectal Cancer

What is Colorectal Cancer—CDC

UCSF Colon Cancer

UCSF Mission Bay

Garden Apothecary herb teas

Half Moon Honey

Garden Apothecary Higher Ground facial serum

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Laura Dern Went Makeup Free In ‘Jurassic World’ Thanks To Radiant Face Oil She Calls ‘Magic In A Bottle’ https://www.suggest.com/laura-dern-true-botanicals-skincare-regimen/2660003/ Sun, 03 Jul 2022 13:45:00 +0000 https://www.suggest.com/?p=2660003 Laura Dern

Dinosaurs be darned, Dr. Ellie Sattler is the true icon of the Jurassic Park franchise. (Okay—maybe Jeff Goldblum’s open-shirt scene, too.) Laura Dern not only played the part of the bighearted scientist beautifully, she looked it, too. 

Whether fighting velociraptors or a T. Rex, Dern managed to maintain a glowing complexion. When she returned to Jurassic World: Dominion 29 years later, she looked as youthful and glowy as ever. 

But no prehistoric amber, CGI, or heavy makeup was involved in her stunning appearance. In fact, the 55-year-old actress apparently went makeup-free on set thanks to these specific products—one of which she calls “magic in a bottle.”

The ‘Magic’ Behind Dern’s Look

Dern told Vanity Fair that she wanted to push back against “sexy-scientist tropes,” and she did so in part by going makeup-free. Instead, Dern targeted imperfections normally corrected by makeup with a potent skincare routine. 

Every product in her regimen is by True Botanicals, a brand she loved so much that she sent a hand-written thank-you note to its founder. As for her “magic in a bottle” product? That would be True Botanicals’ best-selling Pure Radiance Oil.

Pure Radiance Oil is a rich blend of ceramides, fatty acids, and antioxidants. It features Omega 3 fatty acids, seed oils, algae extract, and astaxanthin—all of which hydrate and visibly plump the skin. 

True Botanicals sourced ingredients with a small molecular profile so that the skin could absorb the oil more easily. Unlike other products that feature nut oils, Pure Radiance Oil’s seed oil blend won’t clog the pores or sit on top of the skin. 

Dern’s not the only one in love with this “magical” product, either. A 45-day clinical study of 20 women found that 100% saw more luminous skin, better hydration, and a reduction of fine lines and wrinkles after twice-daily use.

RELATED: Elizabeth Olsen ‘Swears By’ This Jennifer Aniston-Approved Device To Tighten And Brighten Skin

Completing The Regimen

It isn’t just Pure Radiance Oil that gives Dern her youthful glow. Her skincare routine is jam-packed with hydrating, anti-aging ingredients that improve the skin’s appearance and overall health. 

To start, Dern swears by True Botanicals’ Renew Nourishing Cleanser. This hypoallergenic cleanser gently removes dirt and impurities while replenishing the skin with antioxidants and aloe vera.

The hard-working formula targets fine lines, wrinkles, dullness, and dryness. Best of all, this cleanser has a luxurious scent of grapefruit, lavender, vetiver, and jasmine.

Dern also regularly uses the Chebula Active Immunity Serum, which she says gives her “instant glowy results.” The anti-aging serum contains Chebula, an ayurvedic fruit and one of the most powerful antioxidants in nature.

This serum minimizes fine lines and wrinkles, evens skin tone, smooths roughness, and gives the look of firmer and brighter skin. True Botanicals is one of the first brands in the world to use this incredibly bioactive powerhouse. 

And because running away from a Giganotosaurus can take a lot out of your skin, Dern will bring in the reinforcements when necessary. True Botanicals’ Natural Chebula Extreme Cream is another Dern-approved fav with mega hydrating power.

Like the serum, this heavy-duty moisturizer contains Chebula extract, as well as calendula oil and wild pansy extract. It’s also one of the only moisturizers in the world made without pore-clogging waxes. 

Without these heavy products sitting in the way, the Extreme Cream can sink deep into the skin to nourish and strengthen the skin’s barrier. As a result, skin appears firmer and more supple. 

RELATED: We’re Stunned By The Instant Wrinkle-Erasing Effect Of This Skin Tightening Cream

Finally, busy scientists (and actresses) know that multitasking is an invaluable tool. So, when Dern is catching up on Z’s, she’s also continuing her dedicated skincare routine.

True Botanicals’ Organic Moisture Lock Overnight Mask features a powerful blend of hyaluronic acid, mango butter, squalane, and aloe vera. This rich yet featherlight mask restores skin hydration while maintaining a natural balance to prevent oiliness. 

This hypoallergenic mask contains no pore-clogging waxes, parabens, or other toxic ingredients. It’s also vegan and sustainably made. 

As Dern told Vanity Fair, Dr. Sattler is a “modern, feminist female action hero.” So, her skincare products better be able to keep up. But if Dern’s fresh-faced appearance in Jurassic World: Dominion is any indication, there’s no better brand up for the task than True Botanicals.

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Reese Witherspoon, Mandy Moore Fans Of This Skincare Tool That Delivers Unbelievable Results https://www.suggest.com/solawave-facial-wand-overview-celeb-loved/2659521/ Fri, 01 Jul 2022 18:15:00 +0000 https://www.suggest.com/?p=2659521 SolaWave Advanced Skincare Wand with Red Light Therapy

Some fresh-faced celebs appear to have never aged a day, and Reese Witherspoon and Mandy Moore are certainly no exceptions. While their ageless skin might seem supernatural, there’s no hocus-pocus involved. 

There are no risky injections or insane amounts of money, either. Witherspoon and Moore use one simple tool to rejuvenate, soothe, and improve the overall health of their skin. And with hundreds of five-star reviews, these celebs aren’t the only ones riding this wave.

This SolaWave, to be exact.

A Four-In-One Skincare Device

The SolaWave Advanced Skincare Wand is a multi-faceted, handheld skincare tool that has been sweeping social media. It offers multiple therapeutic benefits to improve the skin’s appearance, including microcurrent, massage, red light, and warmth. Some features are so subtle that you can’t actually see them working—only the results themselves.

But this isn’t snake oil, either—every feature is backed by years of research. So, let’s break down what this handy tool actually does.

RELATED: Reese Witherspoon Shares Her Travel Essentials For Glowing Skin Without Packing Your Whole Cabinet

1. Microcurrent Therapy

Illustration of SolaWave Wand using microcurrent therapy on skin cells
(SolaWave)

SolaWave’s skincare wand uses low-voltage energy (microcurrents) to stimulate the muscles and deepest layers of the skin. These electrical currents “work out” the face muscles, which helps counteract common signs of aging.

In a 2012 randomized clinical trial, participants who used microcurrent therapy found an over 20% improvement in their wrinkles’ appearance. The trial resulted in over 70% user satisfaction.

Due to this microcurrent feature, the SolaWave Skincare Wand is not recommended for those under 18, who are pregnant, have a pacemaker, or have an active or recent cancer diagnosis. 

2. Facial Massage Therapy

Illustration of SolaWave wand using massage therapy on skin
(SolaWave)

SolaWave’s microcurrent therapy delivers an average of 300 microamps directly to the deepest parts of the muscle and skin. Its facial massage feature, on the other hand, focuses on external symptoms.

The wand emits a gentle vibration that helps decrease puffiness and boosts the skin’s natural radiance. Not only does it feel amazing, but the massaging effect also drains toxicity in the lymphatic system, making the face appear slimmer and refreshed.

3. Red Light Therapy

Illustration of SolaWave wand using red light therapy on skin
(SolaWave)

The SolaWave head’s bright red glow isn’t just for looks–it’s another form of therapy. Red light therapy uses low-level wavelengths of visible red LEDs to reduce the appearance of blemishes and fine lines and minimize breakouts.

This wand’s red light has a centroid wavelength of 660 nanometers. In plain English? It’s the best kind of red light for improving the skin’s appearance. Over 75% of participants noticed smoother, more even skin tones after using red light therapy.

4. Therapeutic Warmth

Illustration of SolaWave wand using heat therapy on skin
(SolaWave)

Besides the massage function, SolaWave’s therapeutic warmth benefits are the easiest to “see” working. Heat therapy encourages blood vessels to widen, increasing circulation and opening the pores. It can also reduce the appearance of dark circles and under-eye puffiness.

Not only does this therapy feel amazing, but it also increases the efficacy of your other skincare products by enlarging the pores for maximum absorption. If that isn’t a win-win, I don’t know what is.

How To Catch Your Own Wave

Woman using SolaWave wand
(SolaWave)

So, to recap—this revolutionary device de-puffs, smooths fine lines and wrinkles, firms sagging skin, reduces blemishes (and breakouts in general), and increases product absorption. Of course, none of this would matter if it were a pain to use. 

But luckily, the opposite is true. The SolaWave Wand is made of lightweight aluminum and is about the size of an average powder or blush brush. It’s designed to be used in tandem with a serum or moisturizer. SolaWave offers a full kit with a wand and serum, but you can use any of your favorite products. 

RELATED: Jennifer Aniston Apparently Loves This Hydrating Serum Stick That 90% Of Users Claim Soften Fine Lines In Just 4 Weeks

See What The Buzz Is About

For only $149, the SolaWave Advanced Skincare Wand provides the same benefits as multiple dermatologist trips. As anyone who frequents these offices know, $149 is hardly enough to cover a single visit. 

Considering its ease of use, portability, and efficacy, this heavy-hitting wand will pay itself off in no time. SolaWave also offers a one-year warranty on the off-chance your product has a defect. And on the even rarer chance that you don’t fall in love with your results, they also offer free 30-day returns on all orders via the convenience of Amazon.

All you really have to lose by trying SolaWave’s incredible, celeb-loved product are the fine lines and wrinkles you’ve been scowling at for years. There’s only one way to see what all the buzz is about: try the SolaWave Wand for yourself, and enjoy luxuriously supple, red carpet-worthy skin without ever leaving your home.

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Facial Cupping Can Provide Instant Wrinkle Reduction As Long As You Follow This One Key Trick https://www.suggest.com/how-to-use-cupping-to-reduce-wrinkles/2658176/ Sun, 26 Jun 2022 18:45:00 +0000 https://www.suggest.com/?p=2658176 Woman facial cupping herself

Many products claim to provide instant wrinkle reduction, but few live up to the hype. Those that do seem to be effective can be expensive, invasive, or both. However, there might be a different solution after all. 

Malia Hana, also known as “The Skin Coach,” recently shared an anti-aging trick on her Instagram that left us speechless. While we’d seen this technique before, it was usually only on the limbs or torso. 

Nevertheless, her short video seemed to speak for itself. So, we started investigating whether this suction trick was successful or just sucked.

Sucking The Wrinkles Away?

In her recent Instagram post, Hana uses a small handheld suction device on her smile lines. Her caption explains that a master injector had once told her to never get fillers in these smile lines (or nasolabial folds). 

“It can change your smile,” Hana wrote. “It can look very unnatural, and it can help gravity and weigh down the face/jowls.”

As Hana used the suction device on her smile lines, they virtually disappeared, leaving a smooth, lineless appearance.

Her technique (and the tool itself) looked novel, but you might’ve already seen it before. This old trick is called cupping, and it’s been around for millennia.

The Power Of Cupping

While there isn’t a lot of research on this form of therapy, cupping draws fluid into the treated area. Suction force expands and breaks capillaries under the skin, which the body treats like an injury. 

Cupping is thought to clear the pores and release toxins. It’s often used for arthritis, hypertension, headaches, and GI disorders. In Hana’s case, the cupping involves a much smaller surface area and tool. 

RELATED: Jennifer Aniston Apparently Loves This Hydrating Serum Stick That 90% Of Users Claim Soften Fine Lines In Just 4 Weeks

Face cupping releases lymphatic drainage, revealing firmer skin and reducing wrinkles. Hana uses LURE Essentials’ Glam Chic Face and Body Cupping Set. The set is currently low in stock on Amazon, but LURE also offers another set specifically designed for the face.  

LURE’s Glam Age-Defying Cup System

LURE’s Glam Face Cupping Set contains smaller cupping tools. The smaller size makes targeting fine lines and wrinkles easier. Moreover, using a smaller tool can be beneficial for cupping beginners to prevent bruising (more on that later). 

The varying sizes in the set help address specific facial concerns, from the under-eyes to laugh lines to the decolletage. A cupping treatment only takes around five minutes and can be done two to three times a week.

Still, everything comes with a price. The impressive results might make this seem like a fountain of youth, but be careful before you dive in. Face cupping can create the same dark bruises as “regular” cupping if done incorrectly.

The Secret Trick To Cupping

The LURE Face Cupping Set has over 1,100 five-star reviews on Amazon, but there are some not-so-happy customers, too. However, some of the negative reviews suggest these issues resulted from user error. 

The real trick to facial cupping is to use these tools in tandem with your usual serums and oils. Facial cupping doesn’t negate the need for these products–it works synergistically with them. 

Facial cupping treatment
(Microgen/Shutterstock.com)

Serums and oils add powerful antioxidants, moisturizers, and other heavy-hitting ingredients to your facial massage. They also prevent undue stress on the facial skin by creating a smooth surface over which the cups can glide. 

RELATED: Kate Middleton Loves This Anti-Aging Face Oil, And It’s Under $30

Finally, like with any good thing, it’s important not to overdo it. Cupping can reduce the appearance of wrinkles, or it can leave unsightly bruises if used too firmly or for too long. 

Considering how effective it seems to be, it’s up to you to decide if the risk is worth the reward. Not to mention, cupping bruises will go away a lot quicker than Botox. 

Luckily, LURE’s Cupping Set includes a free digital step-by-step guide and video tutorials. So, you can enjoy smoother skin and fewer wrinkles without injections, bodily reactions, or scary filler mishaps.

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Shoppers Say Their Skin Looks Decades Younger With This Kate Middleton-Approved Face Oil https://www.suggest.com/look-younger-with-kate-middleton-approved-trilogy-face-oil/2658576/ Sat, 25 Jun 2022 20:15:00 +0000 https://www.suggest.com/?p=2658576 Kate Middleton side profile at Ascot in fascintor and white and black polka dot dress

One product that is reportedly part of Kate Middleton’s beauty routine is rosehip oil. Considering the 40-year-old mom of three is absolutely stunning—even when baking cupcakes with her kids—and has flawless skin, anything she puts on her face intrigues me.

This Natural Solution For A Myriad Of Skin Needs

Rosehip oil—aka rosehip seed oil—is mostly grown in Chile and is derived from the rosa canina rose bush. It is pressed from the fruit and seeds of the rose plant, not extracted from the flower petals. And apparently, it’s been used since ancient times because of its healing benefits.

Briar Rose Rosehip plant
(Fabian Junge/Shutterstock.com)

Loaded with skin-nourishing vitamins and essential fatty acids, rosehip oil also contains antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal properties. 

When you use rosehip oil, it will hydrate and moisturize your skin and leave it soft and supple. Your skin will just soak it up, allowing the antioxidants to get deep into the skin’s layers. A 2015 study found that rosehip oil has several anti-aging properties, including its ability to keep the skin moisturized and the hydration locked in.

Rosehip oil is non-greasy and a fantastic natural moisturizer for all skin types, plus it will help exfoliate and brighten the skin to give you a natural glow. It also has those magic words that women in their 40s hear all the time—retinol and collagen-boost—to keep your skin elastic and firm as you age.

RELATED: We’re Stunned By The Instant Wrinkle-Erasing Effect Of This Skin Tightening Cream

Another major health benefit is that it helps reduce inflammation, helps boost immunity, and protects your skin against sun damage. Rosehip oil can also reduce the appearance of scars and fine lines!

Kate Middleton And Shoppers Love Trilogy

Now that we know all of the benefits of rosehip oil, it’s time to give it a try. Since the Duchess of Cambridge is such a fan of Trilogy Certified Organic Rosehip Oil, that seems like a good place to start.

As one reviewer noted, “[Kate Middleton] seems to drink from the fountain of youth, with the dewy, flawless skin of a precious child. If this is her secret, I want some for myself. I chose to repurchase this product a few times now because I have been so impressed.”

Trilogy has been clinically proven to help with scars, stretch marks, fine lines, and wrinkles. It can be used in the morning or at night. And, you can use it by itself or as part of a skincare routine. Many reviewers noted that what really sets this product apart from the rest is that it “truly absorbs” into the skin.

“I’ve tried other oils and it seems they would simply ‘sit’ on my skin; no absorption,” one customer shared. “I use this on my face and neck, of course, but I now use it on my legs, arms, etc. I am very satisfied!”

The bottom line here is that rosehip oil is the ultimate anti-aging skin product. Not only is it loaded with vitamins, antioxidants, and essential fatty acids, it’s easy to use and it really does work!

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This Collagen-Promoting Moisturizer Feels ‘Like A Second Skin’ And Is A Well-Kept Hollywood Secret https://www.suggest.com/oxygenetix-oxygenating-hydro-matrix-review/2658313/ Thu, 23 Jun 2022 16:55:00 +0000 https://www.suggest.com/?p=2658313 Oxygenetix Oxygenating Hydro-Matrix display

As someone whose skin is a confusing oily-and-dry mix, finding the right moisturizer can seem near impossible. I’ve tried countless brands, ingredients, and so-called “miracle” products. Yet, my face still ends up greasy one minute and flaky the next. 

Whether too heavy, barely there, irritating, or ineffective, every moisturizer I tried fell at least a little short. So, when I heard about a moisturizer dubbed “Hollywood’s makeup secret,” my ears perked up. 

And after reading more about this heavy-hitting formula and A-list-backed users, I was hooked.

A Look At The Ingredients

Hollywood-approved or not, I had a long list of requirements this “secret” product would have to meet. I wanted a moisturizer that hydrated my skin without weighing it down. And if it could hold its own against sunburns and my occasional clay mask, even better. 

Oxygenetix’ Oxygenating Hydro-Matrix claimed to do all of these things (and then some). I was immediately intrigued by the brand’s claim of a breathable, “second skin” formula. Then, I noticed the ingredient list.

Out of all the trendy skincare ingredients out there, hyaluronic acid seems to work well for my skin. Additionally, the Hydro-Matrix includes vitamin E, soothing aloe, green tea extract, and a proprietary Ceravitae complex (more on that later).

RELATED: This Brush-On Sunscreen Also Doubles As A Sheer Foundation, And It’s All I’m Using This Summer

Putting It To The Test

The first impression wooed me enough to try the Hydro-Matrix for myself. I didn’t make any changes to my skincare routine besides swapping Oxygenetix for my current moisturizer. And as I rubbed in the Hydro-Matrix, I noticed my skin slurping up the hydrating goodness right away. 

Straight off the bat, my skin felt noticeably plumper and more hydrated. I was worried it would stay heavy and sticky, but its overall feel lightened considerably within minutes. My skin felt soft and supple throughout the day, unlike my old gel that would dry out by lunchtime.

Get More Bang (And Breath) For Your Buck

Full disclosure, the price gave me pause. The Hydro-Matrix is about $20 more expensive than the moisturizer I had been using. But after trying it out, I can see why. Not only does the Hydro-Matrix do more for my skin, but a little bit also goes a long way.

First, its “second-skin” sell—that’s a hefty claim, but its proprietary Ceravitae complex backs it up. Ceravitae is an Oxygenetix-exclusive ingredient derived from a yeast compound with pro-healing properties. It promotes oxygen uptake to skin cells, and, thus, accelerates tissue growth.

As the skin cells increase oxygen uptake, they start making more collagen and elastin. These two proteins are responsible for our skin’s smoothness and firmness. As our bodies’ natural reserves deplete, the skin starts to wrinkle, sag, and dull. 

Oxygenetix Oxygenating Hydro-Matrix

$60 Shop Now at Oxygenetix

Subscribe to save 15%. Get Hydro-Matrix for $50.15/bottle.

This extra oxygen intake also speeds up the healing process. The Hydro-Matrix’s exclusive formula is particularly great for post-procedure or post-facial healing. Soothing aloe and green tea extract calm irritated, angry skin, whether caused by sunburns or chemical treatments.

The Science Behind Its Mega Moisturizing Power

Finally, this ultra-nourishing moisturizer contains two key hydrating ingredients. The first is Sodium PCA, which comes from a naturally occurring amino acid. It draws moisture in from the air, thereby increasing the water content of the top layer of the skin. 

RELATED: Jennifer Aniston Apparently Loves This Hydrating Serum Stick That 90% Of Users Claim Soften Fine Lines In Just 4 Weeks

Hyaluronic acid also retains moisture—over one thousand times its weight in water, to be exact. While it occurs naturally in the body, we start to lose it as we age. Consequently, our skin loses volume and plumpness.

Together, these two key ingredients hydrate, volumize, and smooth the skin.

Let Hollywood’s Leaked Secret Be Your New Gain

Professional makeup artists and celebs alike have fallen in love with Oxygenetix’ scientifically proven formulas. Loz Schiavo, the makeup artist for Peaky Blinders, uses the Hydro-Matrix in tandem with the Oxygenating Foundation for a “lovely, translucent sheer look. We love it!”

Oxygenetix Oxygenating Foundation

$66 Shop Now at Oxygenetix

Subscribe to save 15%. Get Oxygenating Foundation for $56.10/bottle.

Celebs like Cindy Crawford, Margot Robbie, and Ellie Goulding are also fans of Oxygenetix. Dermatologists, plastic surgeons, and other aesthetic professionals highly recommend Oxygenetix for its healing power as well. 

Oxygenetix nourishes, protects, and revives the skin. It passed my difficult oily/dry test better than any drugstore moisturizer ever has. And considering a $60 bottle will last months, it honestly feels a bit like highway robbery. My skin looks and feels better than ever, and yours can too.

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