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Cosmetics

Cosmetics

Fashionably Fit!

by Lina Clémence
written by Lina Clémence


Wow, its been a minute since I last posted a blog! 2016 Wedding season was incredible and there were NO breaks for Glamour Cosmetics. Once I finished my last wedding for 2016 I dove head first into editorials for the winter season along with trials for the spring/summer weddings! That’s pretty much how it works year round! No rest for Glamour Cosmetics, but I can’t complain- it’s everything I love to do!
 
With that being said, I want to introduce you guys to an incredibly talented group of women I am now lucky to call my friends. We collaborated to bring this Kate Hudson inspired shoot to life! How amazing did these images come out! Everything is ON. POINTE. (see what I did there!)
Makeup details can be found on Instagram @GlamourCosmetics_
Enjoy!

From Left to Right:
Photographer: Elayna Bartolacci
Assistant Stylist: Julie Pomphrett 
Model: Tayla Fernandez 
H&M: Garineh Ashjian of Glamour Cosmetics 
Producer/Stylist: Dianna Bedrosian 


                          

 
 

 


                                                        


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Cosmetics

25 Best Vegan Face Washes & Cleansers

by Lina Clémence
written by Lina Clémence


This post may contain affiliate links that at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission.

Looking for a vegan face wash to gently yet effectively cleanse your skin without drying or stripping it? In this guide, I’m sharing the best vegan face washes; whether you need a cruelty-free facial cleanser for acne, or sensitive, dry, normal, or oily skin, there’s something for you in this list!

What To Look For:

Unfortunately, most drugstore and high-end face washes are from brands that still test on animals like CeraVe, Cetaphil, Neutrogena, Aveeno, La Roche-Posay, Clinique, Fresh, Kiehl’s, Caudalie, Avene, Shiseido, Bioderma, DHC, EltaMD, Dr. Jart+, Obagi, Chanel, SkinCeuticals, Eve Lom, Origins, Sulwhasoo, Eucerin, and should be avoided when looking for a cruelty-free and vegan facial cleanser.

In addition, some face washes may contain animal-derived ingredients or by-products. Common animal-based ingredients found in face cleanser formulas may include beeswax, royal jelly, cholesterol, animal-based glycerin, stearic acid, glycerides, hyaluronic acid, or squalane.

There are plant-based and synthetic alternatives to animal-derived ingredients. But it’s sometimes difficult to know with certainty whether a product is vegan just by reading the ingredient list. If a product isn’t clearly labeled as vegan then it’s best to contact the manufacturers to ask about the source of their ingredients.

Best Vegan Face Washes in 2023

Below is a list of best-rated and best-selling vegan face washes and their product claims.

All of the face washes mentioned in this post are from brands that have been verified as being truly cruelty-free and don’t test on animals. Note that I’ve included some options from cruelty-free brands that are owned by an animal-tested parent company. If you choose not to purchase from these brands, avoid the ones marked with an * asterisk.

And all of the face washes have been verified as being vegan-friendly and don’t contain any animal-derived ingredients. However, always check the manufacturer’s website for the most up-to-date information as ingredients and formulations may change.

Youth to the People Superfood Antioxidant Cleanser

Best vegan face wash for oily skin

This daily green juice gel face cleanser has a fresh scent and is made with a proprietary superfood-extract blend of kale, spinach, and green tea to remove makeup, support skin’s pH balance, and clear buildup in pores that can lead to blemishes. Effective for single and double cleansing, this antioxidant-rich formula leaves you with glowing, soft, and clean skin without drying or stripping.

The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser

Best vegan face wash for dry skin

Squalane Cleanser is formulated to clean skin by removing makeup and dirt. This cleanser also supports your skin’s moisture barrier through hydration. Its skin-cleansing properties harness plant-derived squalane, a well-studied moisturizing agent, alongside lipophilic esters that will leave your skin feeling smooth and soft while dissolving makeup.

Peach & Lily Power Calm Hydrating Gel Cleanser

Best vegan face wash for combination skin

This breakthrough vegan cleanser starts off as a silky clear gel and lathers into the softest, milkiest foam for that perfect deep-cleanse. Two powerful yet gentle sulfate-free cleansing agents do the heavy-lifting in drawing out impurities. All without stripping skin dry or disrupting the skin barrier. The pH 5.5 formula is then spiked with a cocktail of super-soothing ingredients like “cica,” chamomile and camellia.

Best Vegan Face Wash For Sensitive Skin

Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser

Best vegan face wash for sensitive skin

This mild cleanser is sulfate-free, non-comedogenic, and free from essential oils, botanical extracts, essential oils, and harsh cleansing agents. Formulated for daily use to remove makeup and excess skin oils without drying skin.

Also Available at Target and Walmart.

Derma-E Sensitive Skin Cleanser

Best less expensive vegan face wash for sensitive skin

Derma E’s dermatologist-recommended sensitive skin vegan cleanser was specifically formulated to calm sensitive skin while cleansing. Soothes the look of visibly red skin while nourishing dry and uncomfortable skin.

Best Vegan Face Wash For Acne

The INKEY List Salicylic Acid Cleanser

Best vegan face wash for acne

This non-drying, lightly foaming cleanser removes makeup and dirt, while penetrating deep into pores helping to reduce blackheads and breakouts. As well as effectively cleansing the skin, this 2% Salicylic Acid cleanser has an added zinc compound. Together they help with oil-control, reducing blackheads and breakouts and promoting a more even looking complexion.

*Murad Acne Control Clarifying Cleanser

Best 1.5% salicylic acid vegan face wash

This maximum-strength vegan gel cleanser combats acne and skin breakouts by dissolving excess oil, purifying pores, clearing existing blemishes & prevent breakouts—including maskne. Two types of salicylic acid start treating immediately and over time. Green tea extract helps soothe and calm irritation for healthier-looking skin.

*Note: Murad is cruelty-free, but Murad is owned by Unilever, a parent company that is NOT cruelty-free.

Versed Keep the Peace Acne Calming Cleanser

Best less expensive 1.5% salicylic acid vegan face wash

A gentle, non-drying, foaming cream vegan cleanser with 1.5% salicylic acid that shuts down breakouts without stripping the skin of its natural oils. The apple fruit extract acts as a gentle exfoliant (removing buildup that can contribute to breakouts) all while calming and moisturizing the skin. And that dreamy blue hue? That’s all thanks to blue tansy, a natural antioxidant with anti-inflammatory properties that cool and soothe irritated and inflamed skin. If you experience breakouts and understand the words ‘fine lines,’ this cleanser is made for you.

Skinfix Acne+ 2% BHA Cleanser

Best 2% salicylic acid vegan face wash

Powerful acne cleanser with salicylic, azelaic and glycolic acids reduces breakouts and minimizes excess sebum that can clog pores. It targets all forms of acne, including Malassezia folliculitis (“fungal acne”). Supports healthy skin pH levels for a balanced surface microbiome.

Best Vegan Cleansing Oil and Balms

*Pai Light Work Cleansing Oil

Best vegan cleansing oil

Formulated with vitamin C-rich rosehip—the star of Pai’s iconic Rosehip BioRegenerate Oil—this golden cleansing elixir effortlessly rinses away every last trace of sweat, grime, and makeup. Conditioning olive and sunflower oils melt away impurities, while geranium and jasmine oils soothe and soften, leaving even the most sensitive skin feeling fresh, balanced, and oh-so-clean.

*Note: Pai is cruelty-free, but Pai is owned by Clarins, a parent company that is NOT cruelty-free.

*Farmacy Green Clean Makeup Removing Cleansing Balm

Best vegan cleansing balm

This award-winning cleansing balm quickly and effortlessly melts away makeup (including long-wearing and stubborn eye makeup) without stripping your skin or leaving any residue behind. Transforming from a sorbet-like balm to a milky lather, it seamlessly removes sunscreen, visible impurities, and excess oil while gently exfoliating skin to leave your complexion hydrated and smooth.

*Note: Farmacy is cruelty-free, but Farmacy is owned by P&G, a parent company that is NOT cruelty-free.

Then I Met You Living Cleansing Duo

Best vegan cleansing duo

Makeup, city grime, pollution — our skin is exposed to so many impurities throughout the day, that can lead to premature aging, breakouts and rough skin. By incorporating the Living Cleansing Balm (an oil-based cleanser) and The Soothing Tea Cleansing Gel (a water-based cleanser), you’ll be sure to remove these dulling elements from the surface.

Best Daily Vegan Face Exfoliator

E.L.F. Gentle Peeling Exfoliant

Best drugstore vegan facial exfoliant

A gentle exfoliant that peels away dry, dead skin to bring your fresh face forward. E.L.F.’s best-selling gentle exfoliant works to shed layers of dry skin buildup and restore your radiant, youthful complexion. The liquid formula is full of nourishing tangerine, papaya, and licorice extracts that soothe skin, while prepping it to better absorb the benefits of your other face products.

More Vegan Facial Cleansers

COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser

Best vegan face wash under $15

COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser is an ultra-gentle face wash formulated with pore-purifying ingredients that gently rinse away impurities. While refining the skin texture, this cleanser will help cleanse with no stripping. Great for all skin types, wake up to a firmer-looking skin while letting it rest clean during the night.

Glossier Milky Jelly Cleanser

Best 2-in-1 vegan face wash

This is a nourishing cream and gel cleanser in one. The “milky” phase conditions skin to keep it fresh, happy, and moisturized. The “jelly” phase works to dissolve oil, dirt, and makeup. It’s gentle enough to use daily, twice a day, or more! It’s formulated with five skin conditioners (like Allantoin and Pro-Vitamin B5) that leave your skin feeling baby soft (not like you need to rush for moisturizer afterwards)

*Tatcha The Rice Wash Soft Cream Cleanser

Best vegan cream cleanser

A PH-neutral, daily cream cleanser that gently washes away impurities without stripping skin—leaving it hydrated, feeling soft, and looking luminous. For centuries, Japanese women have repurposed the milky water leftover from rinsing rice for cooking to use in their beauty rituals. A rich source of vitamins A, B2, B12, and E, this byproduct softens and boosts the look of luminosity. This original cleansing ritual was the inspiration for this wash, combining Okinawa red algae and hyaluronic acid with Japanese rice powder to replenish essential moisture for clean, hydrated skin.

*Note: Tatcha is cruelty-free, but Tatcha is owned by Unilever, a parent company that is NOT cruelty-free.

OSEA Ocean Vegan Cleanser

Best-smelling vegan face wash

Wake up your skin and your senses. This seaweed-infused gel cleanser removes everything from surface impurities to excess oils. Scented with an energizing twist of lime and sweet jasmine with a citrusy light note of bergamot.

Blueland Facial Cleanser Starter Set

Best zero-waste vegan face wash

A first-of-its-kind gentle cleanser that transforms from powder into a full bottle of non-foaming gel with a skin-balanced pH. The gentle blend of hydrating ingredients creates a gel that is hypoallergenic, non-irritating and fragrance-free.

KraveBeauty Matcha Hemp Hydrating Cleanser

Best non-stripping vegan face wash

The face wash that leaves your skin feeling cleaner and better. It uses coconut-based surfactants to deeply cleanse without stripping skin. Instead, nourishing Matcha and Hemp Seed Oil restore hydration and antioxidants to the skin. Seems like the wise choice to us!

Naturium Niacinamide Cleansing Gelée 3%

Best vegan niacinamide face wash

This essence-like cleanser is formulated with 3% niacinamide and works to gently dissolve makeup, oil and impurities, while improving the appearance of skin, for a healthier-looking complexion. This niacinamide facial cleanser leaves skin feeling softer, smoother, and balanced, never dry or stripped. Can be used on dry or damp skin.


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Cosmetics

Were Wimbledon too hasty to dismiss their line judges?

by Lina Clémence
written by Lina Clémence


Several players have raised concerns about Wimbledon’s electronic line-calling system, Hawk-Eye, in the inaugural year that line judges have been replaced.

Both British top-ranked players, Emma Raducanu and Jack Draper, have voiced scepticism regarding the system, following reported malfunctions during matches featuring Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova against Sonay Kartal, as well as Taylor Fritz versus Karen Khachanov.

Hawk-Eye has been used in sports since 2001, aiding officials in making close calls across cricket, football, rugby, and tennis. In tennis, Hawk-Eye is employed for electronic line calling and has been in use at Wimbledon since 2007. It has proven particularly beneficial due to the fast-paced nature of games, with serves that reach speeds up to 153 mph, a record set by Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard this year.

The system employs 12 cameras around the court, tracking the ball’s movement and using computers to analyse and interpret footage with automated voices announcing calls. This modern approach was adopted to stay abreast of technological advancements and to replace the approximately 300 line judges Wimbledon typically hires each year.

Previously, Hawk-Eye complemented the accuracy of line judges at Grand Slam events and major tennis tournaments, except for the French Open, also known as Roland-Garros, which is played on clay. Some believe the clay surface can disrupt Hawk-Eye’s precision, and as the ball leaves a visible mark where it lands, Hawk-Eye is deemed unnecessary.

Research has indicated that approximately 8.2% of line calls involving balls within 100mm of a court line may be incorrectly judged by human officials. Hawk-Eye’s accuracy generally boasts a margin of error around 3mm. However, these figures are just estimates, and accuracy can vary based on factors such as the ball’s speed. Hawk-Eye’s cameras can also only capture a certain number of images due to their frame rate.

Line judges or not, there are still errors

Additional issues beyond system distrust and genuine accuracy concerns have marred The Championships this year. During the match between Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova and Sonay Kartal, human error resulted in the system being deactivated. The All England Lawn Tennis Club issued apologies and has since eliminated the option to disable Hawk-Eye to prevent similar issues.

In the match between Taylor Fritz and Karen Khachanov, Fritz’s second serve was correctly returned by Khachanov, but the subsequent forehand was erroneously called out by the system, which mistook it for a serve. This led to the point being replayed. Despite this glitch, Fritz expressed a preference for using Hawk-Eye, stating that it eliminates the need to “think about challenging calls in the middle of points” and that it is “a better system.”

Hawk-Eye is not infallible

Other critics argue that Wimbledon, a tournament steeped in tradition with its all-white dress code, strawberries and cream, The Queue, and grass courts, should retain its line judges after 147 years of tenure. They contend that the entertainment value of players challenging calls and the subsequent reveal of the correct decision has been lost with the adoption of Hawk-Eye.

In conclusion, Wimbledon’s decision to eliminate line judges in favour of an entirely electronic system appears to have had its faults. The traditional role of line judges not only ensured accuracy but also added a layer of drama and engagement to matches, as players challenged calls and the tension built around those moments.

While Hawk-Eye technology has its merits, it is not infallible, as evidenced by recent malfunctions that have raised player concerns. The previous system, which combined human oversight with technological support, provided a balanced approach that should have been maintained to preserve the integrity and excitement of the tournament.





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Cosmetics

OLLY expands into holistic personal care with Mood + Skin line

by Lina Clémence
written by Lina Clémence



OLLY Vitamins, best known for its gummy supplements, has expanded into the personal care sector with the introduction of OLLY Mood + Skin. This new product line aims to enhance both skin health and emotional well-being, featuring body washes, scrubs and serums designed to improve the skin barrier and elevate mood through fragrance technology.

The line incorporates neuroscience-backed fragrance blends alongside a proprietary vitamin complex known as 12-HSA. This complex is clinically proven to repair, strengthen and moisturize the skin.

“Launching OLLY Mood + Skin marks a natural progression as we broaden our support for daily wellness routines,” stated Bryan Ferschinger, chief revenue officer at OLLY, in a press release.

Growing demand for mind-body products

Industry trend analysts told us that OLLY’s move is strategically timed to tap into growing consumer demand for holistic personal care.

“With the perma-crisis in mind, the level of stress has significantly increased, pushing the consumer’s demand for products and experiences that can help them counterbalance their overall negative feelings and emotions,” said Eleonora Mazzilli, trend localization & business development director, North America at Beautystreams.

This psychological shift is impacting how consumers define beauty, she added. “With this new mindset, the definition of beauty is evolving into one that is focused on psychological well-being, self-care and health.”

She described OLLY’s launch as representative of a new category called “psycare”, which “will eventually evolve into a beauty category of its own.”

Neuroscience meets formulation

According to OLLY’s press release, fragrances in the Mood + Skin collection were tested using EEG technology to measure emotional impact. For example, the BRIGHT scent was found to increase brain wave activity associated with alertness, while the CALM fragrance was linked to brain waves that promote relaxation.

Mazzilli said that such innovations reflect broader shifts within the industry: “The latest advancements in science and technology allow us to see how fragrance impacts the human brain, give scientific proof of results and dig into scents’ emotional connections.”

However, she cautioned that brands entering this space must ensure that their claims have scientific backing “to meet consumer demands for greater transparency as well as result-driven solutions.”

Search behavior shows strong interest

Consumer search data from Spate supports the relevance of OLLY’s timing. Jenny Zeng, a beauty insight analyst at the company, highlighted strong year-over-year growth in searches related to mood and body care.

“Our data shows that interest in mood health is growing +61.9% YoY across Google and TikTok combined,” Zeng said. “We’re also seeing that ‘relaxing’ is trending alongside body care, with a +68.9% YoY growth.”

Mental health terms are also appearing more frequently in this context.

“‘Anxiety’ averages 2.3 million in monthly popularity in the context of body care,” Zeng added. “This launch from a supplement-focused brand like OLLY feels like a smart move, bridging wellness and beauty at a time when holistic health is becoming a defining theme in the category.”

Product details and rollout

According to the company’s release, the new collection features body washes, body scrubs and body serums in four core categories: CALM, REVIVE, BRIGHT and RENEW. Each product is paraben-free, sulfate-free, dermatologist-approved and available for $12.99 at Walmart, Amazon, Target and on OLLY’s DTC website.

OLLY also partnered with comedian Heather McMahan for an “Unlicensed Shower Therapy” campaign to promote the launch. While the marketing strategy adds a humorous angle, the company’s press release positioned the Mood + Skin line as a serious entry into the personal care market that is “rooted in science-backed self-care.”


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Cosmetics

SKINCARE | Skoah Hydradew Mask #CanadianJuly | Cosmetic Proof

by Lina Clémence
written by Lina Clémence


Purchased by me

Founded here in Vancouver, BC I have not posted about Skoah since 2014 and it’s mainly because I worked there and had a bit of a negative experience at head office where I worked, but now that I have had 10+ years of hindsight and life experience, it’s mostly in the past and I feel comfortable sharing about this brand again. It also just goes to show how good the Hydradew Mask is that I have felt the need to come out of “hibernation” to let you all know just how good this mask is!  

 

My skincare routine in the summer is definitely more lazy and especially on a humid day like yesterday where my hair was as large as the sun, I do not want my face to feel sticky, greasy, oily, moist or wet in any way. The Hydradew Mask is the ultimate summer saviour and after using many jars of this over the years, I have come back to it again and in new packaging!

Skoah Hydradew Mask Review

This may say “mask”, but don’t let that fool you because in addition to using this as a mask (sleeping or wash-off), I have used this as moisturizer and even primer! I have even heard of people using this as a booster for their moisturizers and it is also great at oil-control ESPECIALLY in the summer. 

Skoah Hydradew Mask Review

This mask is oil-free and contains a powerhouse of plant-based ingredients like GAGs (glycosaminoglycans) that attract and trap moisture and maintain cell integrity of the skin, bearberry extract which is an antibacterial, soothing Arnica montana flower extract and calendula and even echinacea extract. It’s literally EVERYTHING!  

Ingredients: aqua, propylene glycol, hydrolyzed glycosaminoglycans, propylene glycol alginate, arctostaphylos uva ursi leaf extract, arnica montana flower extract, echinacea purpurea extract, mimosa tenuiflora bark extract, calendula officinalis flower extract, tilia cordata flower extract, ginkgo biloba extract, hedera helix extract, avena sativa kernel extract, hypericum perforatum extract, camellia oleifera leaf extract, allantoin, PVM/MA decadiene crosspolymer, triethanolamine, diazolidinyl urea, iodopropynyl butylcarbamate, parfum/fragrance, citric acid, sodium hydroxide

Skoah Hydradew Mask Review

In addition to the unique melon scent (I hate melons, but the scent of this is actually pleasant!), the gel texture is cooling and absorbs into the skin SO FAST which is why it makes a great primer that doesn’t pill! It leaves skin with a smooth finish in under 5 minutes that does not stick to your pillow or can even create that smooth finish when used on top of let’s say an extra sticky sheet mask!

It is easy to wash off, unlike a lot of other sleeping masks, and I kid you not, this has been my moisturizer every single night for the last 2 weeks! I cannot get enough of it!

Skoah Hydradew Mask Review

Final verdict: There is now a “summer sized” of the Hydradew Mask which means double the awesomeness for less than double the price so I think I will need to pick it up especially since we are going to be seeing some hot temperatures next week! This was a truly unique product more more than years ago when I first tried it and even after all this time in the beauty blogging world, this mask is still like no other so definitely give this mask a try if you haven’t already!

You can find the Skoah Hydradew Mask at www.skoah.com and at all Skoah locations (go to the North Van one because that’s the best one IMO!)


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Cosmetics

The Best Eye Creams for Bags for Men

by Lina Clémence
written by Lina Clémence


While eye bags come and go, there’s no doubt they’re a nuisance and can be rather difficult to conceal — but not impossible to treat — especially when you’re aware of the best eye cream for bags.

Not to be confused with dark circles (caused by blood pooling in the veins under the skin), bags under the eyes occur when the skin relaxes and sags with age, creating a pouch-like appearance. Due to lifestyle habits, excess fluid can also build up there, which makes the lower lids look even puffier. So, even though there are several causes of swollen eyes, luckily, there are many solutions to fix them — including the best under-eye puffiness reducer. 

Not sure where to start looking for the best under-eye cream for bags and puffiness? No worries. Here at The Derm Review, we’ve reviewed hundreds of products with a scientific lens to ensure you’re creating a skincare regimen that’s safe and effective. Best under-eye cream for bags or the best depuffing eye cream? 

Best Under-Eye Cream for Bags: The List

BEST OVERALL

BEST CREAM: Carrot & Stick The Eye Cream

BEST TREATMENT: Carrot & Stick’s The Eye Serum

Carrot & Stick’s Eye Essentials contains both products and offers great value. 

FULL LIST

Formulyst Anti-Aging Eye Cream 

Eve Lom Radiance Antioxidant Eye Cream

La Mer The Eye Concentrate

Sunday Riley Auto Correct Brightening + De-Puffing Eye Contour Cream

Algenist Complete Eye Renewal Balm

Skinceuticals Physical Eye UV Defense SPF 50

Neocutis Lumière

Best Under Eye Bag Creams

What’s the best eye cream for puffy eyes? We’ve got top picks for you to choose from. 

BEST OVERALL

Carrot & Stick: The Eye Cream
If you want to send your under-eye bags packing, reach for The Eye Cream from Carrot & Stick. It tackles bags and puffiness and dark circles with powerhouse plant-based ingredients, including Persian silk tree (Albizia julibrissin), which helps tighten and protect the delicate skin around the lids. At the same time, St. Paul’s wort (Sigesbeckia Orientalis) stimulates collagen and elastin to help restore vitality.

Best Bet

Carrot & Stick routines take the guesswork out of building the perfect routine for your skin. Choose a routine with our favorite product: Carrot & Stick The Eye Cream. You save up to $160 with a routine. Use code DERM20 for an additional 20% off.

Carrot & Stick’s The Eye Serum
A blend of advanced peptides reduces the look of discoloration and rich moisturizers combat dryness. Crow’s feet are smoothed, puffiness is reduced and skin is visibly lifted and brightened with every application.

FULL LIST

Formulyst Anti-Aging Eye Cream Formulyst’s Anti-Aging Eye Cream is formulated to address five anti-aging actions in one. This advanced eye treatment softens the look of puffiness, dark circles, and stubborn crow’s feet while protecting the delicate eye area from environmental aggressors. The cream is powered by hyaluronic acid, which draws in moisture and helps plump up fine lines while leaving the eye area looking refreshed.

Eve Lom Radiance Antioxidant Eye Cream
Eve Lom’s Radiance antioxidant eye cream formula is a triple threat, meaning it helps combat puffiness, dark circles, and wrinkles. Fine lines become minimized thanks to sodium hyaluronate (the salt of hyaluronic acid, which can also hold 1,000 times its weight in water). Under-eye bags fade, thanks to peptides, which help firm up the overall eye area for a tighter look. Dark circles are brightened thanks to extracts of Swiss garden cress, which promotes a more even tone throughout, helping to diminish discoloration and brighten the eye area.

La Mer The Eye Concentrate
Some people consider this eye cream a miracle worker, and it’s priced accordingly. The secret ingredient is the brand’s signature Miracle Broth, which contains fermented seaweed. The Miracle Broth provides intense hydration to help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles while diminishing the look of dark circles and under-eye bags. Bonus points for the cooling metal applicator that helps reduce puffiness and gives an instant cooling feel.

Sunday Riley Auto Correct Brightening + De-Puffing Eye Contour Cream
Ginseng and caffeine are the star ingredients in this best-selling eye cream that rapidly reduce puffiness and give the eyes a refreshed appearance. It’s also incredibly hydrating thanks to watermelon rind extract, sodium PCA, and cocoa and shea butters. Antioxidant-packed lutein (as found in egg yolks) provides a luminous glow to the otherwise dull eye area.

Clarins Multi-Active Eye Cream
This depuffing eye cream is applied with a two-step process. First, the product is squeezed out and tapped on lightly with a finger before going over the area with the built-in metal tip. As noted above, metal applicators are ideal for helping to depuff eye bags as they feel cool and soothing while giving the eye area a gentle massage. Key ingredients include organic teasel (a prickly plant with diuretic properties), vitamin E (to fight off free radicals), glycerin (to soften and moisturize), and caffeine to address puffiness. 

Dr. Brandt No More Baggage Eye Depuffing Gel
As the name suggests, this needle-free eye gel works to depuff eye bags, thanks to caffeine and elasticity-strengthening peptides — bonus points for targeting dark circles, too. Note that this treatment works best when worn over a more decadent eye cream.

Algenist Complete Eye Renewal Balm
A multitasking balm that diminishes the appearance of puffiness and dark circles and serves as an excellent base for under-eye concealer? Who couldn’t get on board with that? Formulated with patented alguronic acid, vitamin C, caffeine, cucumber, aloe, and green tea extracts, clinical studies showed significant improvements after just ten days. 

Skinceuticals Physical Eye UV Defense SPF 50
While this isn’t precisely a de-puffing eye cream, sun protection is the best defense against premature aging — including eye bags. This formula is 100% mineral-based and has UVA/UVB protection. It also features a tint, so it helps to conceal bags and shadows. 

Neocutis Lumière
This power-packed eye cream is formulated with hydrating hyaluronic acid, antioxidants, and a patented blend of peptides called PSP (Processed Skin Cell Proteins) that work synergistically to brighten, de-puff, and remove dark circles. You’ll need a prescription for this one, which is an excellent excuse to make an appointment with a dermatologist.

Best Eye Cream for Bags: The Bottom Line

What’s the best eye cream for under-eye bags? Overall, the best eye cream for puffiness is Carrot & Stick’s The Eye Cream. We also recommend Carrot & Stick’s The Eye Serum. 

Carrot & Stick’s Eye Essentials contains both products and offers great value. 

Puffy bags under the eyes occur when the skin relaxes and sags with age, creating a pouch-like appearance. Due to lifestyle habits, excess fluid can also build up in this area. Other causes include genetics, diet, sleep habits, fluid retention, alcohol, allergies, crying, and health issues. 

While there are several home remedies for bags, we think the best under-eye cream for puffiness and wrinkles comes from some of the leading beauty brands in the industry. 

 

Best Bet

Carrot & Stick routines take the guesswork out of building the perfect routine for your skin. Choose a routine with our favorite product: Carrot & Stick Eye Essentials. You save up to $160 with a routine. Use code DERM20 for an additional 20% off.
FURTHER QUESTIONS

The number one cause of puffy eyes is an inevitable one. As Dr. Shaun Desai, a facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon at Johns Hopkins Center for Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, notes, “The most common cause of under-eye bags or puffiness is natural aging.” 

Specifically, this is due to a weakening of the muscles in the eye area.”

As Dr. Desai explains, “Older skin becomes too lax and tends to fall or wrinkle. The muscles and tissues around the eye can also weaken and contribute to the baggy look. This weakening allows the fat surrounding the eye to bulge out, creating that bubble-like appearance.” 

Other causes include genetics, diet, sleep habits, fluid retention, alcohol, allergies, crying, and health issues.

The Mayo Clinic notes that most eye bags are harmless and don’t require medical attention.

However, the clinic suggests seeing a doctor if the swelling is “severe, persistent, painful, itchy or red” as it could be a sign of an infection, eye allergy, or a thyroid issue. Dr. Annapurna Singh tells the Cleveland Clinic that “any swelling that lasts longer than 24 to 48 hours should send you to an eye care professional because there are times it can be something severe that can blind you.”

According to Medical News Today, the medical term for puffy eyes is “periorbital edema,” which also means a buildup of fluid around the eye area.

Periorbital edema isn’t quite the same thing as an under-eye bag. It’s a buildup of fluid around the eyes, which can sometimes be a symptom of a medical condition or a side effect of a medication.

Anything with high salt content (like processed and fast foods), as well as some foods you may not suspect, such as tomatoes, eggplant, canned foods, dairy, hot peppers, sugar, and wheat bread.

While there are several eye creams for bags that specifically target puffiness, some can cause puffiness because they’re too rich. In this case, you’ll have to experiment with different textures to find the right one for your bags. Just make sure it’s not lacking the necessary active ingredients.

Another potential cause of puffiness could be allergies or a sensitivity to a specific ingredient (or ingredients.) Or, perhaps you’ve applied too much product —or too close to the lash line. Every time you blink, your lashes lift microscopic amounts of product, which could migrate into your eyes, causing irritation and puffiness.

If you are deficient in iron, oxygen supply to the body tissues is compromised, making the skin appear paler and dark circles more pronounced.

Sources:
“How to Get Rid of Bags Under Your Eyes,” John Hopkins Center for Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery.
“Bags Under Eyes: Symptoms and Causes,” Mayo Clinic.
“Puffy Eyes: What Causes them and What to Do About It,” Cleveland Clinic.
“Periorbital Edema: Pictures, Causes, and Treatments,” Medical News Today. 




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Cosmetics

Put Your Pores on Ice with Ole Henriksen Violet Ice Cold Plunge Pore Mask!

by Lina Clémence
written by Lina Clémence


Recently (for reasons that should be obvious) I’ve been trying to concentrate on things that give me cold thoughts: igloos, polar bears, frozen margaritas, Christelle’s black heart, luges (because luges), every indoor space in Disney World (why is it an Arctic tundra in Epcot??) and now… 

 

Ole Henriksen Violet Ice Cold Plunge Pore Mask – 90g – $57 – this chilly little purple powerhouse is a tube of frozen fabulousness, and let me tell you – it’s cold. It starts off: “oh, minty” cold. Moves on to:  “ooh, refreshing” cold. But the kicker is when you rinse it off and move on to: “did I just get slapped in the face by Queen Elsa?” cold. It’s like sticking your face in a snowbank and somehow walking away with smaller pores instead of frostbite!

 

What’s packed in this glacial goodness?

Kaolin & Purple Clay – Like a Dyson vacuum for your pores, it sucks up oil, dirt and bad decisions;  Salicylic Acid – gives clogged pores a one-way ticket to nowhere; and Danish Purple Willow Ferment – Fancy. European. Fermented. Basically kombucha for your face. 

 

As an added bonus: no fragrance, no dyes, no BS – just pure purple marbled frosty magic that dries down like a wintry work of art and rinses off like a snowstorm in July. Especially delightful during the current  heat wave when your skin is screaming and you wish your face could live in the freezer. 

 

And as a special added bonus: there is nothing like freaking your husband out with a purple face! 

 

It’s part of the Balance + collection – aka a full-on arctic expedition for oily, acne-prone skin. The rest of the chilly crew includes: 

 

Daily D-Clog Pore-Clearing Cleanser – 150ml – $46 – a plush, creamy gel that gently exfoliates with salicylic acid while sounding very polite about it. Danish purple willow and juniper berry team up like a Nordic spa retreat for your skin. It de-gunks, softens, soothes, and somehow still leaves you feeling squeaky clean, not sandblasted. 

 

Detox Drops Salicylic Acid Toner – 120ml – $45 – this icy liquid miracle delivers immediate “ahhh” energy and visible clarity in a week. Think of it as a toner that doesn’t mess around—it clears, calms, hydrates, and could probably write passive-aggressive notes to your blemishes if asked nicely. (It’s that good.) 

 

You can grab this cool crew at Sephora stores across Canada, online at sephora.ca or at olehenriksen.com – just don’t blame me when you start hoarding it in the fridge next to your popsicles!

 

– Lisamarie – 




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Cosmetics

Volufiline Results and Review

by Lina Clémence
written by Lina Clémence


At 41 years old, no filler, no Botox, I’m seeing some natural signs of aging. As an avid TikTok user, I had started to see the product Volufiline popping up. Like many, I was intrigued by user Devon Kelley’s results in the under eye area.

As someone who was once a faithful user of lash growth serums, I’d definitely begun to notice under eye hollowness and darkness. It makes the job of my under eye concealer that much harder, and sometimes, impossible all together. So, that’s annoying.

I started researching Volufiline further, until I found myself adding to cart and anxiously awaiting it’s arrival.

What is Volufiline?

Volufiline is actually a raw ingredient, made by French company Sederma. You’ve likely not heard of Sederma but have may have used products with their other popular ingredients, Matrixyl 3000 and Maxi Lip. Despite originating in France, Volufiline appears frequently in Korean skincare products.

How does Volufiline work?

To understand how Volufiline works, you first need to understand the fat pads that live below the surface of our skin. These fat pads are nice and plump at first, then, as we age, shrink. Once you know that, it makes perfect sense why we see drooping and volume loss.

See how the fat pads shrink over time?

Volufiline works by increasing the lipid storage in those fat pads, thus, plumping them up. This can increase volume in hollow areas.

How to use Volufiline

Being that Volufiline is a raw ingredient, not a finished product, you need to mix it into a carrier product prior to applying. For the under eye area, add 1 drop to an eye cream or face oil.

If using on the lips, add 1 drop to a lip balm or lip safe face oil.

The bottle comes with a little plastic jar and spatula for mixing, but I prefer to mix it fresh each use. I put my eye cream or oil on the back of my hand, add 1 drop and mix prior to applying each time.

I faithfully applied Volufiline to my under eye hollows, temples and occasionally lips for 8 weeks before evaluating. You need to give it at least 8 weeks to see any change and some say it can take up to 6 months.

Volufiline Results

I didn’t see any visible in change in my lips so there’s nothing to report there. However, I was pretty surprised at the progress I saw in my under eye area. See for yourself.

8 week progress
Less recessed hollow, thus brighter and less orbital bone projection due to the volume built up

Final Volufiline Review

For me, even in 8 weeks, this worked. I saw enough difference to deem it a success. At it’s extremely modest price point, it feels a little too good to be true.

I experienced no irritation or sensitivity whatsoever, making it such a seamless integration into my existing skincare routine.

I plan to continue to using it intermittently to prevent further volume loss as I age. I am considering mixing up a little batch of lip balm with Volufiline to give that another go.

If like me, you’re noticing some volume less and hollowness, and would rather avoid the filler route, I definitely recommend giving Volufiline a go.

Purchase on Amazon




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Cosmetics

EMSCULPT NEO Put the Spark in my Spring

by Lina Clémence
written by Lina Clémence


When it comes to the perfect “beach body”, I am definitely Team “This Beach Is Going To Get Whatever Body I Bring It”. Meaning: EVERY body is a beach body and every body deserves to live its best beach life. So by simply showing up to the beach as I am — I am beach ready. But I will admit, there are little things that I do help feel my best.

Every Summer, I buy a cute new bathing suit. This year I am very into strategically-placed cutouts and high-legged bottoms! Matching sunglasses are a must…I’m been feeling very retro lately. I always start a sunless self-tanner about a week before the beach….the extra bronzey glow gives my legs an even tone and helps to conceal cellulite.

This year I did a new thing — I tried EMSCULPT NEO, a non-invasive, in office procedure that helps with body-sculpting, muscle-building, and skin-tightening.

The fat reducing treatment is quick (30 minute sessions) and pain free — but you do feel muscle contractions coupled with a heating sensation. In addition to the abdomen (which was my focus area), EMSCULPT NEO can be applied to the buttocks, arms & calves.  After the treatment, the dead fat cells are flushed out from the body through metabolic processes. The fat loss is permanent and the n0-downtime procedure feels like a million crunch exercises packed into 30 minutes.

Over a span of about a month, I visited Dr Jennifer Levine (@drjenniferlevine), Double-Board Certified Facial Plastic Surgeon, at her Manhattan practice for weekly  EMSCULPT NEO treatments. My main goal was to boost my current workouts and, frankly, to try out the new technology. Sometimes we find ourselves closed off to new information and procedures available to us. Why is that? If the tech exists, and it potentially solves a pressing concern, I’m all for exploring. And if it’s non-invasive, sign me up twice!

After my third  EMSCULPT NEO treatment, my results really popped. My ab definition was obvious! I also noticed significant improvements in the tone and tightening of my belly skin. Prior to  EMSCULPT NEO, my belly skin was a bit crepey with visible cellulite. Post treatment, my belly is super smooth and there’s no sign of cellulite.

See my remarkable results HERE.

Would you like to learn more about    EMSCULPT NEO? Reach out to @drjenniferlevine for a consultation. Mention “ThisThatBeauty” and receive a special rate just for my beautiful audience 🙂

For more on my EMSCULPT NEO experience, WATCH MY IGTV with Dr. Jennifer Levine!

Dr. Jennifer Levine
Double-Board Certified Facial Plastic Surgeon
@drjenniferlevine
240 East 79th Street, Suite B
NY, NY 10075
212.517.9400

 




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Cosmetics

Curling Iron Comparison: Which Iron is Right for You?

by Lina Clémence
written by Lina Clémence


T3 Curl ID 1.25” Smart Curling Iron, BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Spring Curling Iron, ghd Curve Classic Curl Iron, Hot Tools 24K Gold Professional Curling Iron, Mane Handle with Curl Curling Iron.

I find a curling iron with a clamp so much easier to use than a wand. There is a place for a curling wand, for sure, but use a curling iron with a clamp if you want a consistent curl!

I have been testing 5 different curling irons and have lots of thoughts on each of them. I hope this post serves you with the information you need prior to making a curling iron purchase!

If you missed it, we did a deep dive comparison series for blow dryers and blow dry tools. Now we are here at curling irons, and flat irons are up next!

T3 Curl ID 1.25” Smart Curling Iron – this is one of my very favorites! It has a ton of different setting options so you can really customize the iron to exactly what you need. T3 is always at the forefront of technology when it comes to heat tools, and this iron is an example of that. My curls last long and are so soft when I use this iron. This tool would be a great option for anyone with any hair type!

Hot Tools 24K Gold Professional Curling Iron – This iron has the most size options of the bunch! Hot Tools is the brand of curling irons and blow dryers that I had in my beauty school kit when I started in high school. It’s a reliable, strong brand that makes solid hair tools. I used this brand, albeit in a Marcel iron, for all of my brides when I did hair as a stylist. It heats up quickly and works great! I think barrel materials have improved over time, so I would be a little careful with a metal barrel, but if you use a heat protector and turn the temperature down, you should be fine!

Mane Handle with Curl Curling Iron – this tool has an excellent price point! I love the coated barrel because my hair slides through it easily. The heat setting ending at 410 is fine for most, but if you have resistant to curl hair, you may want something a little bit hotter! Overall, this is a solid curling iron that I’ve reached for over and over again.

BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Spring Curling Iron – It’s hard to beat this price for such a great iron. I love my Babyliss tools, and they work really well on my hair. I find my curls soften and loosen up a lot when I use these irons, BUT I like that. I really like the adjustable heat dial, and these tools have lasted for years and years for me!

ghd Curve Classic Curl Iron – If anyone tells me “my hair doesn’t hold curl,” I send them a link to this iron. It lives at 365 degrees and creates absolutely perfect curls in the hair. The curls I get from using this iron last forever! It’s truly one of the highest performing irons I’ve used, and a very nice quality tool.

Overall, each of these curling irons has lots of pros and maybe just a few cons. I hope you’re able to find a good fit for you, your hair, and how you like to style it from this list!


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