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MERIT Beauty Review: The 7 Best Products to Try (And What Might Not Work for You)

by Lina Clémence June 29, 2025

written by Lina Clémence

For some people, makeup is all about creativity and self-expression. For others, it’s about looking polished with as little effort—and as few products—as possible.

If you fall into the second camp, MERIT Beauty might be your perfect match.

This minimalist makeup brand aims to streamline your routine with a tight edit of goof-proof essentials. The focus is on sheer finishes, wearable shades and sleek packaging, all designed for getting ready in five minutes or less.

But does less really mean more? I put the line to the test to find out. Keep reading for the best MERIT products to try—and the ones that might not be for everyone.

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Brand Overview

Michelle Villett/The Glow Memo

MERIT Beauty is a minimalist makeup brand that promises to simplify your daily routine with clean, easy-to-use essentials.

How the Brand Started

MERIT was founded in 2021 by Katherine Power, a serial entrepreneur who also created the skincare line Versed, the organic wine brand Avaline, and the editorial website Who What Wear.

It all started when an Instagram post about her five-minute makeup routine went viral. She soon realized there was a gap in the market for a simple but luxurious makeup line that would enhance natural beauty without requiring too many products or steps.

“I realized there were many people just like me—busy individuals who want to look polished and pulled together in the time it takes to make a cup of coffee,” she told Forbes. “I am not a makeup artist. I haven’t spent hours consuming beauty how-tos on YouTube, but I like makeup, and I want to enjoy it through a ‘less is more’ approach.”¹

What They Stand For

MERIT’s approach is modern minimalism: a small, tightly edited collection of makeup staples designed to be intuitive, buildable, and (as they put it) “impossible to mess up.” Every product is meant to streamline your routine, whether you’re after a five-minute face or a soft, polished look that still lets your skin show through.

Inside the Formulas

MERIT falls into the clean beauty category, with EU-compliant formulas that are vegan, cruelty-free and Sephora Clean. Products include both natural and synthetic ingredients, with a focus on avoiding known irritants and potentially harmful compounds. The brand’s internal blacklist includes parabens, artificial fragrance and over 1,300 other ingredients.

They’ve also teamed up with celebrity facialist Biba de Sousa on several complexion products, incorporating her own list of 73 additional ingredients to avoid—many of which are technically clean but potentially inflammatory or pore-clogging.

The Best MERIT Beauty Products

MERIT Flush Balm Cheek Color is the brand’s number two bestseller, and for good reason. This is a cream blush with a lightweight, easy-to-blend texture and satin finish.

The dome shape is a big part of its appeal, because you don’t have to use a brush—you can swipe it directly onto your skin and then blend it out with your fingers. (Fun fact: Guerlain used to have a dome-shaped blush exactly like this back in the day, but it got discontinued. Big mistake. Huge! 😂)

Another reason you’ll love this blush is because of the formula: a sheer balm. It melts into your skin to give you a transparent veil of colour that looks like a realistic flush. It’s buildable, but never cakey.

Just be aware that it is not acne-safe. Otherwise, they nailed this formula!

The range of 13 shades includes neutrals, brights and classic pinks. My top pick and one of the most versatile shades is Beverly Hills, a soft peachy pink.

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Traditional lipstick can look and feel heavy, but not MERIT Signature Lip Lightweight Lipstick. This product is designed to give you a slick of lightweight colour that doesn’t even feel like anything is on your lips.

I’ve tried literally hundreds of lipsticks over the years as a beauty editor, and I have to say—this one lives up to its claims. It’s super comfy, non-drying and not too sheer or opaque. It feels like a lip balm but wears almost like a soft, creamy stain. The formula reminds me a bit of Glossier Generation G, but not quite as sheer or blurred.

There are 17 shades to choose from, divided into nine satins and eight mattes. Most of the colours are very “your lips, only better” (think subtle pinks and browns). So far, my favourite is Millennial, the classic pink. It’s so pretty!

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If you hate mascara that smudges (and don’t we all?), MERIT Clean Lash Lengthening Mascara is for you. This is a tubing mascara that adds length, lift and definition, but won’t ever give you raccoon eyes.

If you’re not familiar with tubing formulas, they wrap each lash in a thin “tube” of polymers instead of just pigment—which means they don’t smudge and remove easily with just water. No makeup remover required!

I consider myself a tubing mascara connoisseur, and this formula is truly one of my all-time favourites. It gives surprisingly good volume and definition, doesn’t clump, and stays put all day long.

It comes in just the one shade, Perfect Black… which is a fitting name for the perfect mascara. I said what I said!

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For adding colour, shape and volume to your brows, MERIT Brow 1980 Volumizing Pomade is one of the best products I’ve found. Yes, I like this tinted brow gel better than Boy Brow and all the rest.

To be clear, it’s not for the person who needs strong hold from their brow gel. (That’s me and I usually just use Benefit 24-HR Brow Setter, which is clear, to shape my brows.) But if you’re someone with sparse brows that lack definition, this product is magic.

All you do is swipe it back and forth using a “windshield wiper” technique, and it gives you the most gorgeous, fluffy, defined-looking brows. The results are so good, most people probably won’t even need to use a brow pencil with it. It never deposits clumps, and it leaves your brows soft instead of crunchy.

There are four natural-looking shades (I wear Taupe). Since my brows are already full, this is something I’d reach for on a night out to make them even bolder.

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Lip oil has basically replaced lip gloss, and MERIT Shade Slick Tinted Lip Oil is one of the best versions to try. Think of it as a hybrid between a gloss and a balm, with sheer colour, high shine, and a moisturizing feel.

I have no notes on the formula—it’s very soft and buttery, without any greasy or sticky feeling. It doesn’t migrate off my lips, and stays put for a decent amount of time (a few hours, unless you have something to eat or drink).

I’m also pleasantly surprised by how much pigment you get from most of the shades. There are 12 in all, including classic glossy finishes, pearly shimmers, and sheers with pH-adjusting pigments. My favourites are Marrakech, a universally flattering soft peach, and Twin Set, a mauve.

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MERIT Signature Lip Liner Sheer Liner is one of the newest products in the line, and it’s a winner. This is an extremely hydrating, buildable lip pencil that you can use to define your lips or fill them in all-over.

So it’s just another lip liner? Well, no. It glides on far more easily and smoothly, with a creamy, lightweight gel texture that looks softer and more natural on the edges of your lips. The trade-off is that it’s not as long-lasting as waxier lip liners, but personally I’m okay with that.

There are eight shades, and just like the lip colours, they’re all quite neutral and designed to match natural lip tones. For me, Coupe (cool pink) is perfection. It’s so pretty that I don’t want to wear any other lip liners now!

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When it comes to brow pencils, you want something with a tiny tip that can draw hair-like strokes. MERIT Brow 1990 Sheer Gel Pencil does just that.

This is a soft gel formula—softer than most—so it’s quick and easy to fill in any gaps in your brows without tugging or pulling. But it sets quickly, so you also don’t need to worry about it smearing on you. It’s very similar to the Dior Brow Styler, a longtime favourite of mine… but this is cheaper!

This one comes in four shades, which match the Brow 1990 brow gel shades. (I wear Taupe in both.)

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What Might Not Work for Everyone

MERIT The Minimalist Perfecting Complexion Stick is the brand’s bestseller—a two-in-one foundation and concealer stick that gives you light-to-medium coverage.

The reason I say this won’t work for everyone is because it’s not designed to be used all over the face, like a liquid foundation. It’s a product you swipe on only where you need it—like around your nose and eye area—and then blend out with your fingers or a brush. Blending well is key, because I’ve found that even with a light application, it has the tendency to look a bit cakey up-close (more so than Westman Atelier Vital Skin Foundation Stick, the closest “dupe”).

The other caution is if you have acne-prone skin. It contains some ingredients that could clog pores (synthetic wax and sorbitan isostearate), especially if you’re applying it to areas like the nose, forehead and chin.

But if those aren’t dealbreakers for you, it’s a great product—and ideal to keep in your handbag for on-the-go touchups. I love having a “one and done” complexion stick, and the coverage level is excellent.

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MERIT Bronze Balm Sheer Bronzer is a sheer, creamy bronzer in stick form, designed for a natural, sun-kissed effect. You can also use it as a subtle contour.

I gave this a pass for two reasons. One, it contains some potential pore-cloggers, just like the foundation stick.

The other problem is that the lighter shades, Quince and Clay, are way too orange. If you have cool undertones, it’s just not going to work. Now, obviously I get that bronzer by nature is warm-toned. But here’s the secret: It also needs to have some red pigment to look realistic. (The only brand I know that understands this is RMS Beauty—try the Buriti Bronzer and you’ll see what I mean.)

The three darker shades do appear more balanced, so if you have a medium to deep skin tone, this could work for you.

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MERIT Day Glow Highlighting Balm is an oil-based highlighter that gives your skin a glow without looking sparkly or glittery.

This may not be the best choice for acne-prone skin, since it’s high in olive oil, which can clog pores.

Personally, I prefer a more dewy, glassy finish than you can get with this highlighter. Compared to RMS Beauty Living Luminizer and Westman Atelier Lit Up Highlighter Stick, it has a denser concentration of shimmer particles, so the effect isn’t as natural-looking. The four shades all lean warm, too—even the lightest one, Champagne, is more golden than pearly.

Still, it’s very subtle, so most skin tones should be able to make it work. I also appreciate the stick format, which makes it quick and easy to apply. You don’t need a brush; you just swipe it on and blend it out with your fingers.

One more reason you might want to try this product: It has a better price point than RMS Beauty and Westman Atelier.

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MERIT Solo Shadow Matte Eye Color is a cream-to-powder eyeshadow with a matte finish. Since it’s sheer but buildable, you can either apply it with your fingers or an eyeshadow brush for more precision.

I didn’t end up trying this product because the shades and texture are not my jam. How crazy is it that I couldn’t see a single shade that I thought could work for me? There are eight in all—four neutrals and four “statement” colours—but everything is either too warm, too dark or too pink for me.

I’m also not crazy about the matte finish. I think a bit of shimmer and dewiness is generally more flattering (not to mention more forgiving when you’re applying with your fingers). I’d probably be more on board if these came in packaging like ILIA’s Liquid Powder Eye Tints, which makes the application easier to control.

But that’s just my personal preference. If you’re a matte girlie, and the colours are in your wheelhouse, this could be worth a shot.

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MERIT Great Skin Instant Glow Serum is a “bi-phase” serum, which means that it has both an oil layer and a water layer. You need to shake it to mix them, and together, they’ll give your skin a dewy glow under makeup.

Unfortunately, the formula contains a potential irritant (isononyl isononanoate) as well as low-molecular weight hyaluronic acid, which is inflammatory. It’s also not very hydrating, as it’s lacking essential ingredients to properly support the skin barrier.

What it does do well is the “glow” part—and I will admit, the effect is gorgeous. If you have oily skin, you may find it too greasy, but drier skin types will drink this right up. If you give it a try, make sure to layer a more supportive serum underneath it.

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MERIT Great Skin Priming Moisturizer is a lightweight, silicone-free moisturizer that doubles as a makeup primer.

This is another product to avoid if you’re acne-prone. It contains several potential triggers, including jojoba butter, stearic acid, algae and sorbitan isostearate. It’s also missing skin-supportive ceramides and cholesterol, so it’s not the most balanced moisturizer.

The other problem I detected in my testing is that it tends to pill if you apply it on its own—even with nothing underneath. You really need to layer it on top of the Instant Glow Serum in order to make it work.

If you’re willing to do that, it does make a nice primer under The Minimalist, and it doesn’t feel greasy on the skin.

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MERIT The Uniform Tinted Mineral Sunscreen SPF 45 is the brand’s latest launch, a mineral sunscreen with a sheer, buildable tint that comes in 15 shades.

Unfortunately, with only 15% zinc oxide, it’s slightly low on protection. (Sunscreens need at least 20% zinc to be truly broad-spectrum.) It also contains an SPF booster, butyloctyl salicylate, which is a modified form of octisalate that brands use to artificially increase their SPF ratings.

The third potential problem is that it’s formulated with multiple comedogenic ingredients, including lauroyl lysine—one of the worst triggers for breakouts.

If you’re not acne-prone, and you don’t mind that it’s not 100% mineral, I’d suggest treating this like makeup and layering it over a more protective sunscreen.

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Is MERIT Beauty Worth It?

Here’s what I love about MERIT Beauty:

Simple and streamlined: You don’t need a ton of products, which takes the guesswork out of your makeup routine.
Foolproof application: Most items are swipe-and-blend—no fancy brushes or advanced techniques required.
Flattering, wearable shades: Everything is “you, only better.” There’s nothing wild or overly trendy, just subtle colours that enhance your natural beauty.
Lightweight textures: You get a natural finish that doesn’t look overdone.
Luxe but accessible: The formulas feel luxe and the packaging is chic, but the pricing is lower than many comparable brands.
Clean ingredients: They meet EU standards and avoid common irritants.

But here’s why this brand might not work for you:

Limited product range: This is a tight edit—not a full line of options like you’d find from a pro makeup brand (no powders, eyeliners, etc.).
Light coverage only: If you prefer full-coverage or matte finishes, these sheer, dewy formulas may not deliver enough.
Neutral, warm-leaning shade range: You won’t find bold colours or unconventional shades here—the focus is on subtle, wearable tones. Most shades lean warm, which may be limiting if you have cool-toned skin.
Potentially comedogenic: Despite partnering with Biba de Sousa to avoid acne triggers, some products still contain ingredients that could clog pores.

Where to Buy MERIT Beauty

If you’re ready to give this brand a try, you can find it at Sephora and the official MERIT Beauty website.

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June 29, 2025 0 comments

Skin Care

What is Lactic Acid & Which Yon-Ka Paris Products Can You Find It In?

by Lina Clémence June 26, 2025

written by Lina Clémence

When it comes to clear pores and balanced oil production, exfoliation is an essential element of any skincare routine. After cleansing, toning, and exfoliating, however, it’s important to hydrate and protect the skin. There are countless products on the market that provide these benefits individually, but there’s also one ingredient that packs a one-two punch of exfoliation AND hydration: lactic acid.

Lactic acid plays several key roles in supporting the function of cells, tissues, and organs in the body. It’s an energy source for mitochondria, a signaling molecule, and a precursor for glucose production.

What does that have to do with skincare?

Lactic acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) that is commonly used in over-the-counter skincare products to remove dead skin cells, correct hyperpigmentation, and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Here’s everything you need to know about lactic acid in skincare.

What is Lactic Acid?

As previously mentioned, lactic acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid – one of the most popular over-the-counter AHAs, in fact. It’s also used in professional-strength spa products. This AHA provides both exfoliating and hydrating benefits – it can even stimulate collagen production.

Before lactic acid was integrated into modern skincare products, it was used around the world for skincare in its most natural form. Dairy products are rich in lactic acid. It’s what gives soured milk its distinctive smell and tang. Milk baths have long been a popular treatment to soften and beautify the skin. Today, however, lactic acid can be found in many skincare products.

What Benefits Does It Have for Skin?

The primary skin benefits of lactic acid are linked to its exfoliating and hydrating properties. What makes this AHA so popular is the fact that it can facilitate noticeable change in the skin when used regularly. It’s also one of the more gentle hydroxy acids found in skincare products.

Here’s an overview of some of the benefits this AHA can provide:

Lactic acid helps remove dead cells from the skin’s surface by dissolving the bonds that bind them together – in other words, it acts as an exfoliator.
It can reduce the visible signs of aging by stimulating collagen renewal when used regularly.
This AHA speeds up cell turnover and cell renewal. It can give you a brighter complexion with smoother, softer skin by replacing old cells with new cells.
Lactic acid helps strengthen the skin’s natural moisture barrier to protect against dry skin.
It can be beneficial for individuals struggling with keratosis pilaris. It helps dissolve the plugs that form around the hair follicle, creating “chicken skin” bumps.

While lactic acid is gentler than many AHAs, it is still a very strong treatment and should be used with caution. Potential side effects include sun sensitivity, skin irritation, redness, burning, or swelling. Individuals with very sensitive skin should avoid lactic acid and this AHA should not be combined with the use of topical retinoids.

Popular Yon-Ka Products that Contain Lactic Acid

Lactic acid can be found in several different types of skincare products. Leave-on treatments like creams, serums, and lotions with lactic acid should be used as directed to avoid sun damage, and wearing sunscreen daily is a must. If you’re looking for a stronger dose, try a peel or mask.

Here are some popular Yon-Ka products containing lactic acid to consider:

Alpha-Peel – This anti-wrinkle night concentrate gel helps refine, refresh, and revitalize the complexion overnight. The lactic acid in the product offers exfoliation benefits which pair perfectly with the renewing and hydrating benefits of Alpha-Fluide
Essential White Solution Clarte – Formulated to treat dark spots and pigmentation, this solution is a brightening and exfoliating treatment. The lactic acid it contains is included for its exfoliating benefits and for helping unify the complexion. For best results, use in conjunction with the Essential White collection of products.
Juvenil – This purifying anti-blemish concentrate provides a balanced approach to treating imperfections. The lactic acid in this product acts as a post-biotic to help balance the skin’s pH and support healthy microflora.
SOS Spot – Designed as a roll-on treatment, this product purifies the skin of acne-causing bacteria and offers post-biotic benefits to protect the skin’s healthy microflora. The lactic acid in this product also helps balance the skin’s pH.
Hydra+ Booster – Hydrating for all skin types, this booster is intended to be added to your usual moisturizer. The lactic acid in this product helps to soften and hydrate the skin.

Please consult your Yon-Ka trained esthetician for the best recommendations of how to use lactic acid in your skin care routine.

June 26, 2025 0 comments

Hair Styling

Tried & True Hair Products

by Lina Clémence June 24, 2025

written by Lina Clémence

Hair products… isn’t it so hard to know where to put your money? I want a quality product that is going to strengthen my hair and support it rather than break it down. Going through a million hair care products to find what is truly good and will serve your hair how you need it… Read More

The post Tried & True Hair Products appeared first on Dani Marie Blog.

June 24, 2025 0 comments

Cosmetics

Sagging Skin? Wrinkles? Best Firming Creams & Skincare Products

by Lina Clémence June 17, 2025

written by Lina Clémence

How to treat sagging skin

If you’re past age 30, perhaps firming creams have been on your mind. It’s a fact of life that everything changes with time, including our skin. While most of us got used to a dewy, healthy glow and plump, toned complexion in our teens and 20s, everything changes as we approach our 30s and beyond.

One of the most challenging aspects of the aging process is when taut skin starts to sag. While there’s no such thing as a miracle product that can reverse the loss of tone, there are skin tightening creams on the market that can help improve skin laxity.

Not sure what to look for in a firming face cream? 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. Ahead, 11 of the best skin firming creams and face tightening creams to help you restore a more youthful-looking complexion.

Best Firming Creams for Sagging Skin: The List

BEST OVERALL

BEST TREATMENT: Carrot & Stick Repair Serum, $80

BEST CREAM: Carrot & Stick The Moisturizer, $60

FULL LIST

Formulyst Lifting and Wrinkle Smoothing Cream, $80

Chanel Le Lift Cream, $165

Estee Lauder Resilience Lift, $99

SkinCeuticals A.G.E. Interrupter, $162

La Prairie Anti-Aging Night Cream, $255

First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Hydra-Firm Night Cream, $40

Clarins Extra-Firming Wrinkle Control Firming Day Cream SPF 15, $88

Dior Capture Totale Multi-Perfection Creme, $70-$110

StriVectin -AR Advanced Retinol Intensive Night Moisturizer, $79

The Science Behind Firming Creams

Firming the skin comes down to stimulating collagen production. Starting around the age of 25, collagen production declines at a rate of approximately 1% each year. Since collagen is the component that gives the skin structure, it progressively becomes less firm and saggier as we get older.

When we reach our early 50s, collagen production ceases, and any existing collagen that remains gradually breaks down and becomes weaker, exacerbating skin laxity. There’s also elastin to consider because it gives the skin its elasticity — or bounce. It’s around a thousand times more flexible than collagen. Together, collagen and elastin are the main structural protein components of the skin.

The best firming creams have something in common: ingredients that can help stimulate collagen and elastin production — although some products suitably deliver these compounds into the skin better than others. Even so, don’t expect your skin to go back to what it used to look like in the past.

Best Skin Tightening Cream Ingredients

Retinol: When it comes to the best firming face cream over-the-counter, vitamin A (retinol) is the most effective (OTC) ingredient for stimulating collagen production to firm up the skin because it directly stimulates our skin cells.

Peptides: These messengers help keep the firm and smooth by communicating with your skin cells to do a specific job. The first peptide to be developed stimulates collagen, so they are often found in firming creams to improve elasticity and firmness while strengthening the skin.

Antioxidants: Certain antioxidants like B3 (niacinamide), E, and coenzyme Q10 neutralize free radicals (sun exposure, pollution, cigarette smoke) that can lead to the breakdown in collagen, while vitamin C may stimulate it.

Alpha-Hydroxy Acids: AHAs stimulate collagen production and firm the skin, among several other benefits.

What to Expect from a Firming Face Cream

Creating new collagen doesn’t magically happen by applying a topical cream, so don’t expect miracles. Even the best face moisturizer or firming face cream in the world can give you the same results as a cosmetic procedure. However, with consistent, daily use, a face tightening cream can provide a temporary tightening effect to help make sagginess less noticeable.

Best Firming Creams for Sagging Skin

Best firming face cream for sagging skin? You may already have a lot of the best skincare products, but we’ve got 11 top picks to address laxity.

BEST OVERALL

Carrot and Stick Repair Serum, $80
Apply this anti-aging serum daily to keep skin hydrated and protected from free radical damage. The Repair Serum by Carrot & Stick helps lift, tighten and firm the look of skin thanks to seven plant-based neuropeptides, while synthesized growth factors help keep skin looking radiant. It’s the best anti-aging serum for 30s — and beyond.

Carrot & Stick The Moisturizer, $60
Say goodbye to lax skin with the plant-powered The Moisturizer. It helps to hydrate, firm, and revitalize the skin. Suitable for all skin types, The Moisturizer from Carrot & Stick is formulated with plant proteins, vitamins, peptides and amino-collagen. A caffeine boost helps perk up lax skin, while five distinct coconut elements help with cell renewal and overall conditioning. We recommend using Carrot & Stick Repair Serum as the first step in your skin tightening routine. Serums penetrate deeper and contain a higher concentration of active ingredients.

FULL LIST

Formulyst Lifting and Wrinkle Smoothing Cream
Wrinkles and sagging skin are no match for Formulyst’s Lifting and Wrinkle Smoothing Cream. The rich cream is formulated with a powerful blend of botanicals and lipids to help keep the signs of aging at bay. Moringa seed oil delivers intense hydration, while evodia ruteacarpa fruit extract brightens and refines the complexion. Rounding out the ingredients list is peony extract which helps leave the skin looking smoother and firmer.

Chanel Le Lift Cream
This key ingredient in this firming face cream is dicaffeoylquinic acid, or 3.5-DA, derived from the Edulis morning glory. Chanel researchers labored for 12 years to isolate this potent extract that promotes collagen synthesis to improve skin elasticity.

Estee Lauder Resilience Lift
This lightweight anti-aging moisturizer sculpts, contours, plumps, and lifts, thanks to Estee Lauder’s advanced Photo-Activated Lift Complex. Plankton extract and Thermus thermophilus ferment strengthen the skin, provide deep hydration, and protect fibroblasts — the cells that produce collagen — against free radicals.

SkinCeuticals A.G.E. Interrupter
SkinCeuticals A.G.E. Interrupter seeks to reduce damage from advanced glycation end products, or AGEs, resulting from excess sugar that negatively impacts collagen and elastin, causing the skin to sag.

This firming cream helps counteract collagen and elastin loss with potent ingredients like proxylane, blueberry extract, and phytosphingosine. Pro Xylane helps support the skin’s glycosaminoglycan (GAG) synthesis. GAGs like hyaluronic acid keep skin plump, firm, and hydrated.

La Prairie Anti-Aging Night Cream,
La Prairie is known for its luxurious formulations, and this firming face cream is no exception. The main ingredients that address the loss of tone are peptides. Hexanoyl dipeptide-3 norleucine acetate is a synthetic peptide that helps overall skin renewal, accelerating the speed at which cells renew to reveal a more refined complexion. Palmitoyl tripeptide-8 soothes by reducing inflammation, while acetyl decapeptide-3 stimulates collagen and elastin to firm, tighten, and sculpt the skin.

StriVectin-AR Advanced Retinol Intensive Night Moisturizer, $79
Retinol is one of the best ingredients to help improve elasticity, tone, and texture. However, it can cause the skin to be irritated — especially those who are sensitive. The good news is this firming cream is formulated with StriVectin’s patented NIA-114 technology to help lessen any potential irritation associated with retinol. Thanks to the addition of hyaluronic acid, copper tripeptides, and plant lipids, you’ll wake up with a more radiant, supple, and toned complexion.

Best Lifting and Firming Face Cream: The Bottom Line

Use a serum as part of your anti-aging routine. Serums penetrate deeper and contain a higher concentration of active ingredients. We recommend Carrot & Stick Repair Serum. Followed by Carrot & Stick The Moisturizer. We recommend Carrot & Stick’s Lift & Smooth routine as it contains both products.

A caffeine boost, peptides, and amino-collagen help perk up lax skin, while five distinct coconut elements help with cell renewal and overall conditioning.

Firming the skin comes down to stimulating collagen production. Starting around the age of 25, collagen production declines at a rate of approximately 1% each year. Since collagen is the component that gives the skin structure, it progressively becomes less firm and saggier as we get older.

When we reach our early 50s, collagen production ceases, and any existing collagen that remains gradually breaks down and becomes weaker, exacerbating skin laxity. The best firming creams have something in common: ingredients like retinol, peptides, antioxidants, and alpha-hydroxy acids that can help stimulate collagen and elastin production.

What’s the best firming face cream, in your opinion? Let us know in the comments below!

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about firming creams.

FAQs

While the natural aging process is responsible for collagen loss, the sun is one of the biggest culprits of sagging skin. Over time, prolonged exposure to the sun’s damaging rays breaks down the elastin in the skin and weakens it. Think of it as a rubber band that has lost its bounce-back quality and has started to sag and droop.

Also, as we get older, our skin loses its ability to retain moisture, so it becomes drier. Significant weight loss and medications such as steroids can also lead to crepey-looking skin. Environmental and lifestyle factors also wreak havoc on the skin. The degradation of elastin is also accelerated by a poor diet, alcohol consumption, inadequate sleep, and smoking.

As the saying goes, necks don’t lie. Loss of firmness is often seen on the neck and décolletage first, as the skin is thinner.

Gravity doesn’t help either, especially as most of us spend hours hunched over screens, which can also lead to “tech neck.” The neck also contains fewer oil glands than other parts of the body, which means it doesn’t get as much moisture naturally.

The best firming and tightening creams take a multi-prong approach. First and foremost, they are powerful moisturizers because adding a good dollop of moisture to the skin gives the skin a plumper, fuller look. The added hydration makes fine lines and wrinkles less noticeable.
Some firming creams contain caffeine to restrict or tighten the skin, which gives it a temporary “lift.” Other products rely on skin exfoliators to create a smoother-looking surface and minimize the appearance of fine lines.
Some firming creams are packaged in tubes with roller ball massage applicators to help stimulate circulation and boost skin smoothing effects.

Retinol is the gold standard ingredient for tightening the skin from the outside in. It’s the most potent over-the-counter ingredient that helps build collagen and elastin, resulting in tighter, smoother skin.

A well-formulated firming cream can make noticeable improvements. However, the reality is, even the best firming face cream or skin tightening cream will not provide the same results that can be achieved from medical procedures such as lasers, chemical peels, IPL (intense light therapy), radiofrequency, or thermal skin tightening.

Laser resurfacing is the most effective procedure for tightening loose skin. However, it requires 5-7 days of downtime, unlike other laser treatments. Laser resurfacing also provides the fastest results.

Some DIY home mask recipes for skin tightening include pure aloe vera gel, egg whites and honey, ground coffee and coconut oil, and rosemary oil mixed with cucumber paste.

Just because you’re using a topical firming face cream doesn’t mean you can’t work on your skin from the inside out. To help tighten loose skin, including vitamin C- and zinc-rich foods, garlic, tomatoes, bell peppers, and egg whites.

Sources:
“Decreased Collagen Production in Chronologically Aged Skin,” US National Library of Medicine National Center for Biology.
“An anti-aging skincare system containing alpha hydroxy acids and vitamins improves the biomechanical parameters of facial skin,” US National Library of Medicine National Center for Biology.
“Photoaging: What You Need to Know About the Other Kind of Aging,” Skincancer.org.

June 17, 2025 0 comments

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Women's Fashion

My Top 10 Affordable Health, Beauty & Well-Being Products

by Lina Clémence June 15, 2025

written by Lina Clémence

A few weeks ago I brought you my can’t-live-without purchases and promised my top health and beauty products were coming soon… well, here they are!

So that last post with the products that –ahem- “changed my life” (and yes, I know how dramatic that sounds but I like to keep up the optimism!) listed the items to do with the home and garden, style and kitchen that all made my life easier or enhanced it in some way; I wanted to do that with health and beauty products. And anything to do with wellness that I think have had an impact on my everyday life and that may well have an impact on yours, too.

(You need to let me know!)

[Reading time: 8 mins]

This blog contains affiliate links which means if you click through and buy I may receive a small commission (at no cost to you).

Well-being, wellness, our home/life balance are all buzzwords that are bandied about so much but wowsers, now that we’re aware of them I do believe they’re really important. Self-care and mindfulness also come to mind… you get my drift. We can’t do everything, we can’t make everything perfect (and good lord midlife is hard enough as it is without feeling pressure to do EVEN better than what we’re already trying to do), but anything that makes your life easier or makes you feel more positive? I’m all in.

Nothing listed here is crazy expensive, I can’t afford anything that costs a bomb these days anyway. They’ll all make you feel good and/or look good, because we all need a bit of that, don’t we…?

Here they are:

My top 10 affordable health, beauty and well-being products (with prices at time of publishing)

1. NYK1 eyelash and brow serum (£38 each)

In the past I’ve used that eyelash growth serum – the really expensive OG, Revitalash – because it was heads and shoulders better than any of the other cheaper ones on the market at the time. But now it seems that other companies have caught up and are making serums that are just as effective but with a much cheaper price tag. I’ve tried a couple since then, but here’s a brand that many people seem to wax lyrical about, as do I: NYK1 for eyelashes and brows. Compared to Revitalash‘s £100 price tag (gulp, for 3 month’s supply), NYK1 is a much more affordable £40-ish.

It works just as effectively: at Christmas I thought my lashes had had it. Thin, sparse and short. But by the end of March – after three months of using NYK1 – I realised that bloody hell, I had crazy-ass longer, thicker lashes again. They just sort of… creep up on you (not literally, that would be kinda weird). The brow serum has made my brows much, much fluffier too. Growth serum for your lashes and brows is NOT an essential in life, but wowsers they make you feel good about your face.

2. St.Tropez bronzing mousse (£15), Ambre Solaire self-tan spray (£6) and Ambre Solaire over makeup SPF50 spray (£8)

So much trial and error over the years has resulted in me swearing by/sticking to these two self-tanning products (and a clever SPF sunscreen for your face that can be used on bare skin OR over makeup: genius). I use two different self-tanners as I use them on different parts of my body; let me explain…

I use the St. Tropez mousse on my legs all the way up to my bum (I have a set of standard black pants that I bought just for tanning overnight so it creates clean tan lines in the same place every time) with a hand mitt… don’t try and apply it without one unless you want tanned palms! It doesn’t smell grim, though I can’t ever remember smelling one like that so maybe those days of biscuity-smelling self-tanners are long gone. And I find a spray easier on my top half so it can reach my back and everywhere it needs to go – it still sprays upside down which is a bonus. I don’t use it on my legs because I just CANNOT get it to spray evenly on them, don’t ask me why?! The St. Tropez mousse AND the Ambre Solaire spray give an even, natural-looking colour overnight, and here’s another tip: protect your sheets with a tanning sack. That was another very wise investment… all my sheets are plain white so I’m glad they don’t end up with dubious tanning stains on them. It all sounds like a faff but it’s actually quicker than it sounds, and I like the healthy glow these products give me.

3. The HBD (Human Being Diet) cookbook (£15)

I might write about the Human Being Diet (HBD) in a separate post sometime in the near future, but if you haven’t heard of it it’s a diet plan (as in “your diet”, not as in a fad) that’s being lauded by many midlife women as having helped them get fit and healthy – and to keep weight off.

It’s not a long-term restrictive way of eating; you must have three hearty meals a day, there’s no calorie counting, and you’re told to not do any (not ANY!) cardio exercise for the first two or three months. Plus, after the stricter first two weeks, you get to have a treat meal of ANYTHING you like once a week.

There are four “phases” with different rules in each, and the last phase is the “forever” phase, i.e. when you continue on, keeping the weight off and staying healthy. I lost an incredible 11lbs (5kg) in two weeks with only walking for exercise, and it didn’t feel like I was trying to do anything special. The recipes are all absolutely delicious and very easy and I felt soooooo much better for all the protein, vegetables and general goodness I had to eat.

I’m not one for fad diets – I’ve never tried Atkins, Keto, Weight Watchers or anything similar as I believe it’s too easy to fall back into bad habits once it’s over. I needed to change my habits permanently and this somehow worked when nothing else I’d tried did. I only stopped and restarted because my back went just three weeks into the programme the first time I started it (there is a lot of prep you need to do as all the meals in the first few weeks need to be cooked or prepped from scratch) and when my sciatica reared its ugly head I could barely make myself a cup of tea, let alone prep and cook a healthy stir fry or cooked breakfast. But I’m back on it (pun not intended), am just about to finish the second full week (phase 2) and am looking forward to my first weekly treat meal in phase 3 soon.

Although this is really an HBD cookbook, there’s still a lot of general information in it about HBD itself. But if you fancy reading about HBD in more detail, you can read The Human Being Diet by Petronella Ravenshear and discover more about the science behind it. It’s a very interesting read.

4. Garnier Olia hair colourant (£10 or 2 for £15 at Superdrug)

As someone who started working with L’Oréal five years ago, I can honestly say I’ve not found a better home box dye than Olia by Garnier. Nearly everyone I’ve spoken to who has used it (it becoming a go-to during the pandemic lockdowns) has said just how good it is. It doesn’t stink (at all), it’s easy to apply, the colour is very even and bold (maybe TOO bold?!!) and it makes hair seems super glossy and shiny. I’m not being paid to promote this ad infinitum, I’m just really happy to have found a home box dye that I love considering I can’t afford to get my hair coloured at the hairdressers anymore.

My ONLY gripe is that they’ve discontinued my beloved Rose Gold. (I’m gutted.) I’m going to try L’Oréal Preference Rose Gold Blonde next as it’s the nearest colour to what I want to achieve… fingers crossed the formula is as good as Olia.

5. Pureology shampoo and conditioner (£38 duo set)

I never thought that you could get an amazing shampoo. It just washes and cleans your hair, surely? Makes it feel and smell… nice? What more can it do?! That was what I thought until I tried Pureology (they do several different types but I went for the dry, coloured hair version) – oh my god it’s so much better than any other shampoo I’ve ever tried. For a start, you only need a TINY amount to get a good lather. It smells gorgeous, not just nice. It rinses out easily. And the conditioner is thick and gloopy and delicious. Using them together results in hair that blow dries beautifully and looks amazing. The difference just really, really surprised me (so THAT’S what an amazing shampoo does?!).

I will admit these ARE pricier than “affordable” as per the rest of this list, I’ve kinda sneaked these in. But I honestly think they’re worth it. I’ve had the seal of approval from a hairstylist on a photoshoot when I was asked what shampoo and conditioner I used, and I said Pureology… the stylist’s eyes lit up and he agreed with me that YES they are the absolute bomb for haircare. Not just me, then.

6. bareMinerals Illuminating Mineral Veil (£22)

I have used bareMinerals mineral veil for YEARS and will probably never change it. Nothing else I’ve ever tried has come close to looking as invisible and as dewy as this, and the illuminating version that I prefer has tiny sparkles that make it look like your skin has a natural sheen to it without any chalkiness or dryness (perfect for dry, perimenopausal skin like mine). Plus, it sets makeup beautifully. Don’t ask me how it looks invisible but also seems to even out your skin tone; until I put a light dusting of this on I look blotchy and tired. One sweep later and voilà! Natural, dewy-looking skin. Magic in a pot, especially when you combine it with…

7. IT Cosmetics CC Cream foundation with SPF50 (£30) and Magic foundation brush by Jacqueline Kalab (£42)

I’ve tried LOADS of different foundations over the years (not the super expensive ones, just the cheaper ones and the middle-priced ranges. I’ve never been able to afford crazy-priced foundations). My main gripes have usually been colour match and coverage/finish, which I’ve generally found to be too thick or cakey… neither of which is ideal for me. I’d rather forgo foundation altogether than wear a thick, visible one. Then I discovered IT Cosmetics foundations, and my world was ROCKED. (Slight exaggeration there, I’m just leaning on the dramatic.) I’ve talked before about the IT Cosmetics foundation, and although there are several different ones, I love the Your Skin But Better version: it does what it says on the tin. As mentioned in that post from last year, I don’t know how it’s described as full coverage (it is) but doesn’t look like it. I don’t wear concealer anymore – just this. It’s practically invisible and I love it.

The brush: the brush is perfect. Although £42 is pricey, I was spending loads on Beautyblender sponges that would eventually wear out and get a bit minging – they’re £16 (!) a go, so one Jacqueline Kalab brush that lasts forever is much, much better value in the long run. The bristles are soft and dense and the finish it gives is heaps better than the Beautyblender’s so I’m very happy I bought one.

8. Fitness water bottle with time marker tracker

Our bodies are roughly 60% water, blah, blah, blah… we know the drill. Drink more water, etc. etc. But sometimes that’s easier said than done and you find yourself halfway through the day and realising you haven’t yet had any plain water to drink. This water solves all that: the times of the day are marked on the bottle so you can see exactly where you should be and when with your drinking water habits. I take mine everywhere (and if you don’t like black there are also colourless bottle/white lid and purple versions too), and I mean everywhere. Two fill-ups of this bad boy a day and I’m weeing a lot but also my skin is clearer and I feel more alert. Oh and it’s BIG, holding 2 litres, is 100% BPA-free and the long straw design means no tipping up of the bottle required (good for drinking in the car), plus it has a loop built into the lid so can be carried with it swinging from your finger. I’ve tried many water bottles over the years and I’ll buy this exact one again if I ever needed to.

If you want a prettier version (with nice colours) go for this similar 2 litre bottle with time markers in pinks, purples, greens or blues.

9. The Happiness Revolution (£6)

Described as “a manifesto for living your best life”, I read this book about achieving happiness from cover to cover as soon as I got it – I almost never do that with non-fiction/self-help books (normally I dip in and out of chapters that I fancy reading the most). But it was such an easy read and made SO much sense that it’s the sort of book you should read, say, once a year to remind yourself about how your own happiness is important and achievable.

It’s honestly the best book ever if you’re struggling to deal with anxiety, crappy midlife shit or general low mood: “Built on simple and practical principles, The Happiness Revolution is a thought-provoking and fun read which will have an immediate positive effect on your life and the lives of those around you”. This book is a DELIGHT and you’re guaranteed to feel happier and more contented after you’ve read it than you were before.

10. Go Ho waterproof freckles makeup stamp (£8)

Yet another product I’ve spent years trying to find the perfect version of… this is the best IMHO. I’ve been drawing on freckles since I stopped going in the sun and started wearing SPF daily and my natural face freckles disappeared. In fact I started when I was still at college, so that’s at least 30 years (did I really graduate 30 years ago?!) of painting on freckles: this ain’t no 2020s trend for me…! I’ve tried eyebrow pencil (my go-to for years), henna, specialised freckle pens, tattoo brow stain, the lot. But someone, somewhere mentioned this and it sounded like the sort of thing I’d have designed myself. I bought it and haven’t looked back, no need for the other methods at all anymore.

It’s quicker than the single dotting of a pen or pencil as it creates more freckles in one go with the round stamp. It’s more natural-looking as the dots are different sizes and you can blend with a light tapping of your finger. It lasts pretty much all day as it’s a temporary stain. I freakin LOVE this product so much and am so glad it was invented: hats off to you, sir/madam that created it 😀

And a few special mentions…

Nails Inc Tootsie Tamer foot file (£10) – THE best file to make your feet super soft, it’s unforgiving but works miracles.

Cordless nail drill & polisher (£18) – made mostly for acrylic nails, but I think this is the best tool ever for buffing your nails and cleaning up cuticles.

Rotating beauty/makeup organiser (£11) – so glad I bought this! My everyday makeup and skincare is easily accessible and organised.

Toe protector squishies (£10) – perfect for preventing blisters if you do a lot of walking, hiking or running.

Cetaphil Daily Defence face moisturiser SPF50 (£12) – I’ve almost eradicated the pigmentation I used to get in the summer all over my face with this day cream (Hallelujah!). Great price point for such a high SPF too.

Your turn – have you got any health, beauty and well-being products you swear by (or will you be trying any of these)? Do you think a similar post about products for perimeno and menopause would be a good idea? Tell me in the comments…!

Thanks for reading,

Linking up to… Monday: Inspire Me Monday, My Glittery Heart, On Mondays We Link Up || Tuesday: Confident Twosday, Happy Now Blog Link Up || Wednesday: WowOnWednesday || Friday: Fancy Friday, On the Edge

June 15, 2025 0 comments

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Skin Care

The truth about skin care products and their expiry date | Skin Secrets

by Lina Clémence June 14, 2025

written by Lina Clémence

With the rise of skinfluencers and live selling, it’s no surprise that we find ourselves purchasing multiple products in search of that one product that truly works. But when products start piling up on our shelves, this question pops up in our mind: are these expired?

Using expired skin care products can do our skin more harm than good, possibly even undoing any progress your skin had previously.

Read on as we share all you need to know about skin care and their expiry dates!

Do skin care products have expiry dates?

Just like food and medicine, skin care products have expiration dates as well. Using them on your skin past their prime can be ineffective, and even harmful to your skin. Over time, the active ingredients in skin care products tend to break down, reducing their potency and efficacy.

Factors that affect skin care’s shelf life

Not all skin care products expire at the same rate. Several factors determine how long a product stays fresh and effective:

Exposure to light & air: Sunlight and oxygen can degrade active ingredients, making the product less effective.

Storage conditions: Keeping skin care in warm, humid environments (like your bathroom) can shorten its lifespan.

Packaging: Products in airtight pump bottles or opaque containers tend to last longer than those in jars, which are exposed to air and bacteria every time they’re opened.

If you notice changes in the product’s texture, colour or smell, even if it’s still within its expiration date, it might be time to toss it. Products that have separated into layers or developed clumps should be discarded.

What happens if you use expired products?

Using expired skin care products can cause more harm than good for your skin. As the active ingredients break down over time, the formula loses its effectiveness. This reduces its ability to provide sufficient effects and results for your skin.

Expired products could also lead to irritation, redness or breakouts as preservatives lose their potency, which potentially increases the risk of bacterial or fungal growth.

To keep your skin healthy and make sure you’re getting the most out of your skin care routine, it is crucial to check expiration dates regularly and replace any products that are past their prime.

How to check for expiration dates?

Before using any skin care product, do a quick check on its expiry date. Most products will have:

A printed expiration date: This tells you when the product will expire, even if unopened.

A PAO (Period After Opening) symbol: Look for a small jar icon with a number, like 12M (12 months), indicating how long the product is good for after opening.

3 proper ways to store your skin care

Taking care of your skin also means taking care of your skin care products! Proper storage helps maintain their effectiveness and ensures you get the most out of every drop. Here are some ways to store your skin care properly:

Keep them in a cool, dark place: Avoid direct sunlight and humid environments to preserve their stability.

Consider buying smaller quantities: This minimises waste and ensures you’re always using fresh, potent formulas.

Label your products: Add a small sticker with the date you opened them to keep track of their shelf life.

At the end of the day, skin care is an investment in yourself. So treat your products with care and caution, and they’ll take care of your skin in return!

All, Beginners’ Guide, Sensitive Skin, Troubled Skin / Acne

June 14, 2025 0 comments

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British Beauty

Nailed it – My Views On Revolution Nail Products! – All Things Aesthetic

by Lina Clémence June 12, 2025

written by Lina Clémence

Happy Thursday! I’m finally feeling a little more human having been unwell last week, so that’s a positive. I have been struggling with the lock down recently, and if I’m completely honest, my mental health has taken a bit of a hit. Being unwell didn’t help, but as I’m feeling better now, I’m hoping to do little things to keep myself distracted. I’ve been doing daily workouts, uni work, working from home for my job, and of course blogging! I also find reading very therapeutic and audio books as well if I’m struggling to find the will power to read after a full on day of exam prep. I’ve been trying to do regular pampers so that I feel good about myself as well, and last week my treat from me to me was some new nail stuff! I’ve been isolating at my grandma’s, which means I didn’t have my gel lamp/kit to hand, so I thought I’d give the Revolution brand a go. Here are my thoughts!

The Price and Product

Makeup Revolution is known for being an affordable brand that provides high quality results which is why I thought I’d give their nail products a try. I’m used to gels, but they’re not the best for your nails, so I thought I’d invest in a few products to really help get my nails back into shape ready for me to have my gels on when this is all over. I went for a nice subtle nude/pink colour (called lingerie). I’ve never been one for bright nail colours for some reason, and I tend to stick to pinks/nudes/greys to make sure my nails never clash with my outfits. All the products I bought are below, with the links to purchase:

Makeup Revolution Care and Repair Nail Treatment – £4.00
Makeup Revolution High Gloss Nail Polish (Lingerie) – £4.00
Makeup Revolution Plump and Shine Gel Top Coat – £3.95
Makeup Revolution Nourish and Care Cuticle Oil – £5.00
Total: £16.95

It’s worth noting that the reviews are great and the products sell out really fast, so get buying ASAP if you want a bargain!

How to Apply

So I thought the products were great when I used them! They dry really quickly, and combining some nail treatments was really effective in helping my nails look and feel healthier – I think my favourite was the cuticle oil as it made me feel like a professional haha! Each product is fast drying and doesn’t smudge. However, you can only really do one layer of the lingerie varnish as it starts to peel if you do any more. Luckily, it has a really even finish so it doesn’t matter too much. They’re also quite durable; I’ve had the varnish on since Monday and haven’t had any chipped nails yet which is a result! For what I paid, I think it was worth it. It wasn’t too time consuming because of the fast drying, and I LOVE that it doesn’t smudge – that’s an issue I have with quite a few nail varnishes (FYI avoid Barry M nail varnishes).

Final thoughts? I would say give these products a go! I’m going to invest in a few other colours too so that I can switch it up a bit. I know it might seem pointless because no one will see me anyway, but it’s helping me restore some normality into my life in such an uncertain and unprecedented time.

On that note, I want to make a point of saying again that if you are struggling as I have been, please do feel free to drop me a message. If you feel you need a professional service, I’ve used Samaritans in the past (by calling 116 123) and they were an incredible help. More than ever, it’s essential that we are looking out for each other and keeping ourselves healthy physically AND mentally. Blogging has been a huge help throughout this, so I also owe those who read my posts a huge thank you!

Tomorrow is Friday, and while we may all be losing track of the days right now, let’s try and get that Friday feeling and look forward to the weekend ahead!

Speak soon everyone xxx

June 12, 2025 0 comments

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Plus Size Fashion

5 Products I’m Testing At The Moment & Loving

by Lina Clémence June 6, 2025

written by Lina Clémence

These products were sent to me complimentary from Influenster

I went from being the person who knew their skin and what worked for it. To become all confused because it changes every day. I guess you can say I’m on a long road to finding my holy grail products again. But I’m a trooper who has an open mind and testing new products is something I enjoy. I know the dermatologist out there are probably cringing right now but let’s talk about these 5 products I’m testing at the moment and loving.

(to be completely transparent, I have been testing these products for over two months)

Garnier Smoothing Milk Wash in Hyalu-Melon- I was thinking back to all of the face washes I tried/tested in my life and I have never used something like this before. It’s very different in a really good way. Right out the bottle, it’s the look and consistency as any other face wash. Once you add water to it and apply it to your face, that’s when the magic happens. It smells so good and feels baby soft and gentle. It’s a little hard to explain, it’s really something that I suggest testing out. I could possibly be a little late to the milk wash game (I know in Asian beauty they have a lot of milk products.) I just really want to test more from this line or something like it because I am really in love. I do use this product mainly in the mornings if you were wondering.

Garnier Replumping Serum Cream in Hyalu- Melon- This product goes with the first product I mentioned. I basically refer to it as the little big sister. Only because they go together like peanut butter and jelly. I have tested using using other serum and creams after washing my face with the milk wash and nothing works as good as this product. A little bit goes a really long way. It will fill a little thick at first but when you rub it in smothes out really nicely and leaves a really smooth soft finish.

ChapStick Total Hydration in Peachy Keen- I was very skeptical about this product at first. Chapstick is a very well known classic brand and that wasn’t the problem. It’s just usually when I use balms that have a tent it tends to not show in the color it’s supposed to be in or t shows it in a color that looks completely horrible on my pigmented lips. Today I’m here to let you know that I didn’t have these problems at all with this product or shade. It looks incredible on my lips and iv been wearing it on days where I don’t want to go on full lipstick. There is SPF in this product and it is moisturizing but the one negative thing is after a while you will notice it clumping up on your lips. At that point, I wipe it off and then re-apply it. It could also be that my lips are really dry and that’s causing it to happen but for the high price of $7USD I don’t want any problems. but I still love the product.

Bliss Clear Genius Clarifying Toner + Serum- Completly love the texture and bottle design of this product. For a toner and serum in one, the way that this bottle works is pure genius! All the other ways we have been applying our toner and serums is just really messy and we have learned to just deal with it. Once you start to use this product, you will the have a life changing moment and want all of your products in a bottle like this. I do use this product at night if I’m not using the next product I’m about to mention.

BareMinerals Skinlongevity Long Life Herb Serum- For the longest time I couldn’t figure ou how to take off the cap. It looks like it twist up but really you just pull it off. Out of all the products I mentioned today, this is the one that I fill is doing to most to better my skin and make it look tired. The only thing is I feel like I need the whole line (if there even is one) basically a matching face wash and moisturizer. I feel like if I had those, this could be my holy grail face cleaning products. I cant tell you how much healthier and younger my skin looks after applying this. It also smooths it an I don’t get that oily look throughout the day. It is on the pricy side but I’m telling you its worth it.

June 6, 2025 0 comments

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Skin Care

Is It Ok For Skincare Products To Tingle? – Beautiful With Brains

by Lina Clémence May 30, 2025

written by Lina Clémence

The biggest skincare question that’s doing the rounds now: is it ok for skincare products to tingle? Imagine this scenario:

Uh oh, there it goes again. Your’s skin tingling. Just after applying that new serum. Is it meant to do that? It must be, right? If it tingles, it works. Beauty magazines have repeated that a dozen times. And you saw that influencer say the same thing in her “nighttime GRWM” like it was gospel.

But then… Why is my skin turning redder? What’s going on? Is this normal?! Not really. Sometimes the tingling is a sign that the product is working. Other times, it’s a warning you need to get that nasty bugger off your face before it gives you a bad rash. So if you’re asking if it’s ok for skincare products to tingle, and how to know when the tingle is a sign of incoming glow or income irritation, read on:

Tingling, Stinging, Burning: What’s Normal and What’s Not?

Why does tingling happen in the first place? The skin on your face is full of tiny nerve endings, and they sit really close to the surface. When strong ingredients hit your skin, here’s what’s happening underneath:

Your nerve fibers are reacting to the ingredient.

Your blood vessels may dilate slightly, creating that warm or flushed feeling.

Your immune system might even kick in a little, especially if your barrier is compromised.

This is the inflammation process. Now, inflammation isn’t always bad. It’s part of how your body heals and adapts. But when it comes to skincare, too much of it = irritation, and repeated irritation = damaged skin barrier. Not cute.

Sometimes a little tingle is fine. Other times, it’s your skin begging for a break. So let’s decode what each sensation really means. Think of it like a 3-level system:

Level 1. Tingle = Totally Fine

This is the baby stage of sensation. It feels like a light fizz or a whisper of pins and needles that disappears fast-usually under a minute. No heat, no redness, just a little “hey, I’m here” from the product. This is common with exfoliating acids or active serums, especially if you’ve got slightly sensitive skin or your barrier’s feeling fragile that day. If it’s short and sweet, you’re good.

Level 2. Stingle = Keep an Eye On It

Yes, “stingle” is made up (I think Renee Rouleau used it first), but it fits. This is when the tingle starts to overstay its welcome. It’s a little more intense, maybe lasts up to two minutes, and your skin might look slightly pink or feel warm to the touch. This often happens if you’re using a stronger product or layering actives. For most people, it’s still within the safe zone. But if it keeps happening or starts lasting longer, it’s a clue that your skin might be getting irritated. If your skin feels warm and flushed but recovers quickly, you’re probably fine. But take it as a warning shot.

Level 3. Sting/Burn = Nope. Hard Pass.

This one’s not subtle. It’s sharp. It’s hot. It doesn’t fade. Your skin feels like it’s throwing a tantrum – and it probably is. This kind of reaction usually comes with redness, heat, and that creeping sense of “I’ve made a mistake.” If it keeps going for more than a minute or feels worse by the second, rinse your face. Don’t try to push through. Nothing good is coming from that. The only time this kind of burn is expected is during a pro treatment like a chemical peel. In that case, you’re in a controlled setting with someone watching your skin like a hawk – and if the person does its job well, when this reaction happens, she’ll starting removing the peel from your skin pronto.

Related: 5 Skincare Treatments That Can Ruin Skin (If Abused)

When Is It OK For Skincare Products To Tingle?

Sometimes, the tingling’s normal. If any of these ingredients are in your lotions and potions – and the tingling is annoying rather than painful, you’re good:

Chemical Exfoliants

That’s the case with chemical exfoliants (don’t let the “chemical” name fool you, these exfoliants rock – safely!). Chemical exfoliants can be divided into two big families.

Alpha hydroxy acids include:

Glycolic acid

Lactic acid

Malic acid

Tartaric acid

Beta Hydroxy Acid includes:

All these acids can make your skin tingle slightly when you apply them. It feels like tiny needles gently pricking your skin. Sometimes, there’s some heat too. But the tingling only lasts for a few seconds.If it feels like your skin’s being gently poked by invisible elves with feather-sized pitchforks—that’s the vibe. That gentle tingling means the product is penetrating the skin, and there’s nothing to worry about. It’s kinda like your skin going, “Yup, got it. We’re working now.”

By the way, not everyone experiences this tingling when they use these acids. It usually depends on how sensitive your skin is and how high the concentration you’re using is. The higher it is, the more likely it’ll tingle your skin. So if your friend’s over there applying the same acid and feeling nothing while you’re wondering if this tingling is a bit too much, it doesn’t mean the product’s faulty. You might just have the skin of a Disney princess while she’s rocking dragon-hide resilience.

Best Picks:

Drunk Elephant T.L.C. Framboos Glycolic Night Serum ($90.00): Don’t let the name fool you. This exfoliant has both salicylic acid to unclog pores and glycolic acid to fade away the dark spots pimples sometimes leave behind. Available at Cult Beauty and SpaceNK.

Paula’s Choice Advanced Smoothing Treatment 10% AHA ($39.00): This super-concentrated exfoliating cocktail contains Glycolic, Lactic, Malic, and Salicylic Acids to smoothen out imperfections, fade away dark spots, and treat acne. Available at Cult Beauty, Dermstore, Paula’s Choice, Selfridges, and SpaceNK.

The Ordinary Lactic Acid 10% + HA 2% ($8.90): A simple Lactic Acid exfoliant enriched with Hyaluronic Acid to exfoliate and hydrate skin at the same time. Available at Beauty Bay, Boots, Cult Beauty, Sephora, SpaceNK, The Ordinary, and Ulta.

Related: Chemical VS Physical Exfoliation: Which One Is Better?

Enzyme Exfoliants

Not into acids? Enzyme exfoliants are a gentler option for sensitive skin. These come from fruit enzymes like papain (from papaya), bromelain (from pineapple), or pumpkin. They work by breaking down the proteins that hold dead skin cells together, so they lift off more softly – no harsh tingling, no micro-tears.

Most enzyme exfoliants don’t tingle at all. But if your skin barrier is a little fragile or you’re using them with other actives, you might still feel a mild buzz. As long as it fades fast and doesn’t burn, it’s usually fine. They’re a solid option if you want smoother skin but your face throws a tantrum every time you go near glycolic acid.

Vitamin C (L-Ascorbic Acid)

Vitamin C is a popular antioxidant that fights free rascals, brighten skin, and even boosts the sun protection of your sunscreen. But not all forms are created equal. While Vitamin C derivatives don’t cause any problems, the pure type (L-Ascorbic Acid) can feel a little spicy at high concentrations (like 15% or 20%) – especially if your skin’s not used to it or if you’ve layered it over exfoliants.

That slight tingle with Vitamin C? Totally normal. It should calm down quickly and not come with heat or stinging. But if your skin burns or stays red, it’s either too strong for you or your barrier’s not ready for it yet.

Pro tip: If you’re layering Vitamin C after exfoliating, be extra careful. That combo can make your skin more reactive – even if both products are great on their own. For best results, I recommend you use Vitamin C in the morning and exfoliate at night.

Best Picks:

MaeLove Glow Booster ($27.95): The cheapest Vitamin C serum in this list, it does everything the others do, but it contains a citrus extract that may be irritating for sensitive skin. Available at Maelove.

Paula’s Choice C15 Booster ($46.75): It’s enriched with Hyaluronic Acid and glycerin to deeply hydrate skin. Available at Cult Beauty, Dermstore, Paula’s Choice, Sephora, and SpaceNK.

Skinceuticals CE Ferulic ($169.00): The original Vitamin C serum, it costs an arm and a leg, but it works wonders and delivers what it promises. Available at Dermstore and Skinceuticals.

Related: All Forms Of Vitamin C Used In Skincare: Which One Is Right For You?

WARNING! If your skin is very sensitive, the tingling sensation may turn into stinging or burning. If that happens, wash the exfoliant off your face and never use it again. Your skin’s trying to break up with that product and you need to respect its boundaries. Just because a product is safe, it doesn’t mean it won’t cause problem for anyone at all. No glow is worth a chemical heartbreak.

Related: How To Choose The Best Exfoliator For Your Skin Type?

When Is It Not OK For Skincare Products To Tingle?

There are some other things lurking in your cosmetics that can make your skin tingle. They are:

Camphor

Menthol

Mint

Peppermint

With these, it’s a different story entirely. Their tingling is bad news for the skin. Like a toxic ex, they might feel exciting for a second but leave chaos behind.

These ingredients are counter-irritants. That means they cause local inflammation (that’s the tingling feeling, by the way) to reduce the inflammation in deeper tissues. Basically, they substitute one type of inflammation for another. But inflammation is NEVER good for the skin. It’s one of the main causes of premature aging. So, the less you use these ingredients, the better. If you don’t use them at all, great. It’s not like they’re doing anything important in cosmetics, anyway.

Want to know what ingredients you really need to avoid in your skincare products? Sign up to the newsletter below to receive the “Skincare Ingredients To Avoid” cheatsheet:

Can Anything Else Make Your Skin Tingle?

It’s very rare that other ingredients make skin tingle. But if you have sensitive skin, your skin barrier is severely compromised, or are allergic to something, the truth is any product can give you a tingle or a stingle… or worse.

If the tingling sensation is very, very gentle, then it is probably ok. But if the tingling:

Increases by the minute

Turns into stinging or burning

Lasts more than a minute

Goes hand in hand with redness or peeling

then throw the product away. Your skin obviously doesn’t like what you’re using. And, if your skin barrier is severely compromise, go back to the most basic routine (cleanser, moisturise, sunscreen) until it’s back to normal.

Stop wasting your time and money on stuff that doesn’t work. Click on the image below to download “Skincare That Works” and finally get your best skin day – every day.

My Acid Serum Used to Sting. Now It Doesn’t. Is It Still Working?

This freaks a lot of people out. You start using an exfoliating acid, it tingles or stings a little at first, and then… nothing. No fizz. No burn. It just sinks in quietly. And suddenly you’re like, Wait-has my skin built immunity? Do I need to upgrade to something stronger?

Short answer? No, your serum didn’t stop working. Your skin just got smarter.

When you first start using acids, especially AHAs like glycolic or lactic acid, that tingle is often a sign your skin barrier is adjusting. Exfoliating acids can temporarily increase sensitivity while your skin learns to tolerate them. But here’s the cool part: over time, they actually help strengthen the skin barrier by encouraging cell turnover and supporting lipid production.

So if the sting disappears? That’s a good thing. It means your skin barrier is more resilient, not that the formula stopped doing its job. The real danger comes when you start chasing the sting. That “no pain, no gain” mindset doesn’t work here. Pushing your skin into constant inflammation by jumping to higher percentages too soon – or layering multiple exfoliants – can leave your skin raw, reactive, or straight-up wrecked.

The goal isn’t to feel it working. The goal is for it to work without drama. No tingling = your skin’s doing just fine. Keep going. No need to escalate.

The Verdict: Is It Ok For Skincare Products To Tingle?

If an exfoliant make your skin slightly tingle, it’s probably ok. But if anything else tingles or stings, throw the product away. It’s not suitable for you.

About Gio

Hi, I’m Gio. I’m a no-nonsense, tell-it-like-it-is skin coach and writer on a mission to help you achieve your best skin day ever – every day. I bust skincare myths and debunk marketing jargon to help you figure out what’s worth the splurge and what’s best left on the shelf – using science, not hype. I also offer skincare consultations to help you create the best skincare routine for your unique needs.

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Canadian Beauty

Powered by the planet: Four products from Herbivore Botanicals you need to try

by Lina Clémence May 30, 2025

written by Lina Clémence

I’ve been a real wellness kick lately. Although I’ve always been one to workout a lot (I do some form of exercise five days a week and move everyday), I’ve been really focusing on nutrition and consuming and using better-for-you products. This comes to skincare too.

Although I do love so many skincare brands, I have been leaning towards more natural products. One brand that I’ve been intrigued about for a while is Herbivore Botanicals. Herbivore, which started in Seattle in 2011, has skincare products with an emphasis on natural, high-quality ingredients. Their items are free of synthetic ingredients, including dyes, fragrances, and parabens. They also package them in glass and paper, using recycled and recyclable plastic only when necessary.

The thing that drew me to Herbivore initially was it’s super aesthetic packaging, which features glass bottles and simple labels. They have the kind of products that you want to display since they are simple, but oh so aesthetic. I recently got some items sent to me from the brand and couldn’t want to try them out. Their line ranges from serums to eye creams, moisturizers, masks, and more.

Curious on what to try? Then keep reading…

Blue Tansy Resurfacing Clarity Mask

Looking for a product to help with large pores? Then you’ll like the Blue Tansy Resurfacing Clay Mask (C$66). This natural mask gently clarifies skin with BHAs and white willow bark, fruit enzymes, as well as aloe and blue tansy essential oil to help with the appearance of redness and irritation.

I actually had never heard of blue tansy before but it’s a natural source of azulene, which in addition to giving the mask its blue colour, it helps to also soothe the appearance of redness and irritation.

This mask is best suited for oily to blemish-prone skin, and if you have more sensitive skin then I would recommend a spot test first to make sure you don’t get irritated. This mask helps wth enlarged pores and blemish-prone skin, uneven skin texture, oily or combination skin, and dullness.

Apply the product to your skin and then leave on for 15 to 20 minutes before rinsing off. Use it a couple times a week for the best results.

Super Nova 5% Vitamin C + Caffeine Brightening Eye Cream

Do you suffer from dark circles or dull underlies? Then you’ll love the Super Nova 5% Vitamin C + Caffeine Brightening Eye Cream (C$63). This eye cream is great for dark circles, puffiness, and dryness.

The formula contains THD vitamin C, which is a highly efficacious form of vitamin C, as well as turmeric and caffeine to wake up the eye area. Apply this eye cream in the morning to instantly wake up the eyes and depuff them, while also brightening the look of dark circles in seven days.

Although this is mainly for daytime use (because of the vitamin C and caffeine), you can use it at night as well.

Emerald Hemp Seed and Adaptogens Deep Moisture Glow Oil

Looking for moisturized skin that glows? Then you’ll love the Emerald Hemp Seed and Adaptogens Deep Moisture Glow Oil (C$66). This serum gives skin intense moisture and a natural-looking glow.

Suitable for all skin types, this serum can be applied morning and night, and targets dryness and dullness to reveal glowing skin. The formula contains a blend of omega-fatty-acid-rich hemp seed oil, which also soothes skin, as well as adaptogens like shiitake mushroom and ashwagandha root to protect skin against environmental stressors. It also has cannabis in it, which will help calm skin.

Moon Fruit 1% Bakuchiol + Peptides Retinol Alternative Serum

Love retinol but looking for a natural version? Then you’ll love the Moon Fruit 1% Bakuchiol + Peptides Retinol Alternative Serum (C$82).

This plant-based retinol-alternative serum helps treat signs of aging thanks to the one per cent bakuchiol and plant peptides. Bakuchiol is an isolated extract from the babchi plant that mimics the smoothing and firming benefits of retinol. It also contains plant peptides to visibly tighten skin, as well as a blend of super fruits that contain vitamins C, E, B5, and antioxidants, amino and fatty acids that firm skin.

This nighttime serum targets fine lines and wrinkles, loss of firmness, and dryness. The great thing about bakuchiol is that it’s non-irritating, unlike retinol, which when applied too much can give you irritation, dryness, and redness. This serum contains 100 per cent plant-based ingredients promising to gently give you the anti-aging benefits you’re looking for without any issues or irritation. It’s also pregnancy safe.

Herbivore has a ton of other skincare products available as well and I can tell you already that with such a small taste of the brand I’ve had so far, I will definitely be looking into trying out more items. Not only is the packaging so cute, but I love the fact that it’s a plant-powered skincare line that is good for you and the planet.

Have you tried any items from Herbivore Botanicals?

Please note, all products provided by PR. All opinions are my own.

Like what you read? Check out these related posts:

Best face forward: The skincare you need to try for May 2020

Spring cleaning: New skincare products from Olay you need to try for spring

Rise & shine: Olay Retinol24 Skincare line

Spring ahead! The skincare products you need to try in March

The post Powered by the planet: Four products from Herbivore Botanicals you need to try appeared first on A Pop of Colour.

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