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The Best Sunscreens for Mature Skin Do More Than Protect Skin

by Lina Clémence June 19, 2025

written by Lina Clémence

Our skin care non-negotiable will always be sunscreen, regardless of your age, skin type, or season (yes, even if you’re indoors). The best sunscreens for mature skin, however, offer more than just sun protection—they’re also the key to unlocking brighter, smoother skin. Beyond providing a broad-spectrum SPF of 30 or higher, these formulas are chock-full of nourishing ingredients (Niacinamide! Ceramides! Hyaluronic acid!) that can help soften signs of skin aging, like fine lines, sun spots, and laxity.

Mind you, we celebrate aging in all of its forms, but we also believe in investing in your skin care and choosing heavy-hitting ingredients that do more than simply hydrate. So we tapped editors and board-certified dermatologists to break down formulas that particularly work well with mature skin and won’t accentuate anything you’d prefer not to shine a spotlight on. Let’s dive in!

Our Top Sunscreens for Dry Skin

Frequently Asked Questions

Best Overall: EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46

Why it’s worth it: Allure editors never stop raving about the Best of Beauty-winning EltaMD’s UV Clear SPF 46, and James Y. Wang, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Los Angeles, loves it, too. He calls this mineral-based facial sunscreen “one of the lightest and silkiest skin-care products on the market.” Its star ingredient, niacinamide, is an essential part of this formula for its complexion-brightening, moisture-replenishing properties. To tackle dryness-related wrinkles, this formula also features hydrating hyaluronic acid to plump skin and “fill in” fine lines. Though it’s ultra-hydrating, this sunscreen’s matte finish, oil-free formulation, and inclusion of lactic acid—a skin-tightening and pore-unclogging alpha-hydroxy acid that’s gentler than other exfoliating options—make it a great option for people with acne-prone and oily skin types, too. (Menopause acne is real.) Since we’re on the topic of skin types, those with sensitive skin will love that it’s fragrance-free, too.

If you’re on a retinoid kick, this SPF is a must. The niacinamide in this formula helps calm redness and keeps skin looking smooth, even, and irritation-free.

Sunscreen type: mineral
Key ingredients: zinc oxide (9%), octinoxate (7.5%), niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, lactic acid
Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Hyperpigmentation: SkinCeuticals Daily Brightening UV Defense Sunscreen

SkinCeuticals

Daily Brightening UV Defense Sunscreen SPF 30

Why it’s worth it: Sunscreen is often called a “shield” by dermatologists—and they’re not wrong. SkinCeuticals Daily Brightening UV Defense Sunscreen not only defends against premature aging (fine lines, wrinkles, all the usual suspects), but also takes on dark spots, dullness, and hyperpigmentation with brightening niacinamide and 1% tranexamic acid. The silky, chemical-based formula glides on more like a luxe lotion than a typical SPF, sinking in quickly and making reapplication less of a chore. If uneven skin tone tops your list of skin concerns, this multitasker covers all the bases.

Tester feedback from Allure creative director Amber Venerable

“I loved the consistency and how lightweight yet moisturized my skin felt after using it. You do have to be sure to blend it completely on darker skin tones but it does seep in once you fully rub it in.” —Amber Venerable, creative director

Sunscreen type: chemical
Key ingredients: avobenzone (3%), homosalate (5%), octisalate (5%), octocrylene (7.2%), tranexamic acid, niacinamide, glycerin
Fragrance-free: yes

Best Tinted: Isdin Eryfotona Ageless Tinted Mineral Sunscreen

Isdin

Eryfotona Ageless Tinted Mineral Sunscreen

Why it’s worth it: If you’re looking for a sunscreen that offers just a touch of coverage—enough to blur and even things out without crossing into makeup territory—Isdin’s Eryfotona Ageless Tinted Mineral Sunscreen is a solid pick. It’s packed with photolyase enzymes that, according to board-certified dermatologist Kavita Mariwalla, MD, “improve DNA damage after exposure to UV light.” The formula also features firming peptides and antioxidants to help protect against future sun damage while visibly improving hyperpigmentation and fine lines. The sheer tint doesn’t quite qualify as a skin tint, but it gives your complexion a subtle boost of radiance (and honestly, most days that’s all we need).

Tester feedback from Allure contributing editor Deanna Pai

“My mineral sunscreens have to be tinted—I have too much pigment in my skin to deal with the chalkiness otherwise. I love that this pulls double-duty to not only protect my skin from sun damage but also actively works to even out my skin tone. That’s a big deal since I, like most people with deeper skin, am very prone to dark spots. Plus, it smells and feels like nothing.” —Deanna Pai, Allure contributing editor

Sunscreen type: mineral
Key ingredients: zinc oxide (10.7%), peptides, plankton extract, photolyase enzymes
Fragrance-free: yes

Best Chemical-Based Sunscreen: Shiseido Urban Environment Vita-Clear Sunscreen

Shiseido

Urban Environment Vita-Clear Sunscreen

Why it’s worth it: The bouncy formula behind Shiseido’s Urban Environment Vita-Clear Sunscreen delivers an equal dose of vitamin C and your must-have sun protection. The brightening power of this hero antioxidant helps with smoothness and softening the look of pores, while hyaluronic acid helps lock in moisture. The water-in-gel formula means the combined benefits of a water-based sunscreen and an oil phase to create a non-greasy, easily absorbed final product.

“As the label reads, it contains vitamin C and licorice, which is perfect for upping my radiance and tackling any dark spots, as well as moisture-attracting hyaluronic acid. I noticed that the gel melted down into an extremely slippery liquid. I let it sit for a few minutes and my skin felt velvety soft with an ever-so-slight slickness. My complexion looked diffused—as if I had a soft, blurring filter on my skin—and glowy when the sun hit it.” —Jesa Marie Calaor, senior editor

Sunscreen type: chemical
Key ingredients: avobenzone (2.3%), homosalate (10.0%), octisalate (5.0%), octocrylene (5.0%)
Fragrance-free: no

Best Mineral-Based Sunscreen: Dr. Loretta Universal Glow Daily Defense SPF 40

Dr. Loretta

Universal Glow Daily Defense SPF 40

Why it’s worth it: If dryness, flaking, and dehydration-induced creasing are holding you back, slather on Dr. Loretta’s Universal Glow Daily Defense SPF 40, an ultra-moisturizing formulation with a subtle peach tint that negates white cast. The brand’s proprietary antioxidants, Lipochroman, and ectoin protect your skin from free radical damage and external stressors (that can lead to progressed signs of aging). Also at work is a blend of four powerful botanicals—frankincense, gotu kola, white birch bark, and knotweed—to calm stressed, sensitive skin.

“It has an amazing light-reflecting luminosity that blurs the skin while providing straightforward zinc oxide protection. It melts in instantly, leaving nothing but a beautiful veil of glow behind.” —Shanna Shipin, shopping director

Sunscreen type: mineral
Key ingredients: zinc oxide (17%), lipochroman, ectoin, coconut oil, jojoba oil
Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Barrier Repair: La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Moisturizer SPF 30

La Roche-Posay

Toleriane Double Repair Moisturizer SPF 30

Why it’s worth it: Prepare to quench your thirsty skin with La Roche-Posay’s Toleriane Double Repair Moisturizer SPF 30. This moisturizing sunscreen is one of Dr. Wang’s favorite drugstore formulations for its trifecta of skin enhancers, including hydrating glycerin, irritation-calming niacinamide, and moisture-sealing ceramides. Its lightweight, lotion-like texture blends seamlessly into any skin tone, and, most importantly, it provides broad-spectrum SPF 30 protection. Most importantly, it saves you an extra skin-care step in the morning. “This is easy to apply and combines SPF with moisturizing ingredients and ceramides to help restore the skin’s natural protective barrier,” Marisa Garshick, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Manhattan, New York, and Englewood, New Jersey, previously attested.

“I had already mentally prepared myself to spend 10 minutes working it into my skin, which is what usually happens with creams like this. To my surprise, however, the cream quickly sank into my skin with minimal effort. There was no grayish-looking film topping my skin. Instead, it dried down to a translucent, powdery finish that had a similar feel and look as a mattifying makeup primer. The formula sat clear and comfortably on my face.” —Kathleen Suico, former beauty editor

Sunscreen type: chemical
Key ingredients: avobenzone (3%), homosalate (5%), octisalate (5%), octocrylene (7%), ceramides, niacinamide, glycerin, thermal spring water
Fragrance-free: yes

Best Korean Sunscreen: Round Lab Birch Moisturizing Sunscreen UVLock SPF 45+

Round Lab

Birch Moisturizing Sunscreen UVLock SPF 45+

Why we love it: K-beauty sunscreens have a way of turning a daily chore into a skin-care ritual, and Round Lab Birch Moisturizing Sunscreen UVLock SPF 45+ has earned its viral status, thanks to its silky formula. “It’s a moisturizing sunscreen that is formulated with hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and antioxidants to hydrate and soothe the skin,” says Y. Claire Chang, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Union Derm based in New York City. “It blends in easily and layers beautifully with other skincare products and makeup.” The texture is more like a dewy moisturizer than your average SPF, thanks to birch sap and skin-quenching humectants. And there’s no chalkiness or stickiness in sight, which makes you actually want to reapply it throughout the day.

The birch sap in Round Lab’s Birch collection isn’t just any old tree juice—it’s harvested from the spring sap of silver birch trees in Inje, Korea’s silver birch trees. This seasonal sap is rich in minerals and amino acids, which help hydrate and soothe the skin.

Type: chemical
Key ingredients: glyceryl glucoside, homosalate, niacinamide, birch
Fragrance-free: yes

Best Drugstore: Eucerin Sun Advanced Hydration SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion

Eucerin

Sun Advanced Hydration SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion

Why it’s worth it: Sunscreen has a way of settling into every dry crack and crevice—until you try Eucerin Sun Advanced Hydration SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion. “It’s packed with hyaluronic acid and humectants, which help lock in moisture, and it absorbs well without leaving a white cast,” Ashley McGuinness, MD, board-certified dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology Group in Chesterfield, MO, previously told Allure. And Eucerin’s AOX Shield—a mix of five hardworking antioxidants—has your back when it comes to fighting off free radicals, so your skin stays smooth, fresh, and glowy. The best part? It’s the most budget-friendly pick on our list, which means you can reapply as much as you want without thinking twice.

If your skin’s feeling extra thirsty, layer a hydrating serum or essence underneath—this sunscreen will help seal it all in.

Type: chemical
Key ingredients: avobenzone (3%), homosalate (9%), octisalate (4.5%), octocrylene (9%), hyaluronic acid
Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Dry Skin: Naturium Dew-Glow Moisturizer SPF 50 SPF 43 PA +++

Naturium

Dew-Glow Moisturizer SPF 50 SPF 43 PA +++

Why it’s worth it: Another K-beauty favorite that checks every glow box: Naturium’s Dew-Glow Moisturizer SPF 50 PA++++. Powered by niacinamide and vitamin C to visibly brighten and even tone, plus squalane and argan oil to flood skin with hydration, it leaves your face looking plump, fresh, and dewy in seconds. The buttery texture glides on effortlessly and melts down to that juicy, lit-from-within finish. And thanks to its clever packaging, the cap features a built-in indent that holds exactly ¼ teaspoon of sunscreen—the recommended amount for full face and neck coverage—so you can skip the guesswork.

New to the Korean sunscreen UVA protection scale? PA ratings range from PA+ to PA++++, and “the greater the number of plus signs, the better the level of protection against UVA rays (which visibly age us),” Joshua Zeichner, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and the director of cosmetic and clinical research of dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City, previously told Allure.

Type: chemical
Key ingredients: homosalate (10%), octisalate (5%), avobenzone (3%), niacinamide, ethyl ascorbic acid
Fragrance-free: yes

Frequently Asked Questions

How does sunscreen benefit mature skin?

On top of preventing issues like skin cancer and sunburn, Dr. Lolis says applying (and reapplying) a broad-spectrum sunscreen will minimize the appearance of concerns like fine lines, sun spots, and decreased skin laxity. “Unprotected sun exposure drastically accelerates the appearance of aging skin,” Dr. Lolis explains. “While mature skin is already experiencing these effects absent sun exposure, not protecting your skin with sunscreen daily only sends the aging process into hyperdrive,” she adds. Message heard loud and clear.

What ingredients should I look for in sunscreen for mature skin?

The usual golden ingredient of maturing skin-care routines is, usually, retinol, but sunscreens usually don’t contain that ingredient (mainly due to the misconception that retinol can increase skin photosensitivity, but that’s actually a myth). So, you’ll want to look for a sunscreen formulated with antioxidants, the top-tier one being a stabilized form of vitamin C. This is because antioxidants neutralize environmental aggressors, including pollution, infrared rays, and visible light, therefore they boost the efficacy of your sunscreen’s protective measures. On top of that, studies have shown that when vitamin C is used topically, it can help accelerate the skin’s production of collagen and elastin, the protein fibers that help keep skin plump and firm. So, in helping to promote collagen production, topical vitamin C can help prevent signs of aging of the skin, including fine lines and lack of elasticity.

Another antioxidant known for its skin-boosting benefits is niacinamide, also known as vitamin B3. Like its counterpart, vitamin C, niacinamide has a myriad of benefits, including evening tone, brightening your complexion, and minimizing the appearance of pores. Dr. Garshick previously told Allure that this antioxidant can also diminish fine lines and wrinkles, thanks to its collagen-boosting properties. Most of the formulas above are also spiked with other plumping additives, like hydrating hyaluronic acid.

Meet the experts

James Y. Wang, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Los Angeles
Marisa Garshick, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Manhattan, New York, and Englewood, New Jersey
Margarita Lolis, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology Group in Hackensack, New Jersey
Y. Claire Chang, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at UnionDerm based in New York City
Kavita Mariwalla, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in West Islip, New York
Ashley McGuinness, MD, board-certified dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology Group in Chesterfield, MO
Joshua Zeichner, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and the director of cosmetic and clinical research of dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City
Dara Spearman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Fort Wayne, Indiana

How we test and review products

When Allure tests a product, our editors look at it from every angle in an effort to best serve you. We review ingredients, scrutinize brand claims, and, when necessary, examine peer-reviewed scientific and medical studies. In addition to testing each and every product that’s included in each and every review, we rely on experts who shape their fields, including dermatology, cosmetic chemistry, and medicine, to help us vet the ingredients and formulas.

June 19, 2025 0 comments

Women's Fashion

Your Skin Care Questions Answered By A Dermatologist – The Number 1 Product Is? – FORD LA FEMME

by Lina Clémence June 18, 2025

written by Lina Clémence

Adult acne, signs of ageing, universal skincare must haves, is SPF really that important? A top dermatologist answers your questions.

As you know, I’ve been on a skincare journey of my own, trying to clear my hormonal acne with topical spironolactone, using products from Uncouth, which is a personalised, prescription skincare brand founded by a dermatology doctor.

Uncouth compound bespoke formulas using ingredients that you would only be able to get from a private dermatologist: like Tretinoin for anti-ageing, Hydroquinone for melasma, and of course, Spironolactone for hormonal breakouts.

I’ve been using their products for around 6 months now and I’m definitely seeing good results with my skin. It’s just so tricky to get hormonal acne completely under control! I’ve also tried a couple of their other active ingredient topical creams and I can safely say that they are definitely a power house!

I thought it would be a good idea to talk to one of the dermatologists at Uncouth (the lovely Emma) and get some answers on some of our important skincare concerns! Emma has been helping me with my treatments and is extremely knowledgeable, so I asked her some important questions that I think all of us want to know! I hope you all find this interview really useful. My questions are in bold, Emma’s answers are in plain text. Please do let me know if you have any questions as well!

25% Off Your First Order With My Referral Link

(Dermatologist Emma from Uncouth)

Lorna: What’s the most common skin complaint you encounter?

Emma: The most common concern I see is acne — and not just in teenagers. Adult acne, especially hormonal breakouts in women in their 30s, 40s and beyond, is incredibly common. I also see a lot of rosacea, melasma, pigmentation issues, and general concerns around ageing like fine lines, dullness, and skin texture.

That’s good to know! I’ve suffered from acne (mostly hormonal) since I was 14 years old. Do you have any useful tips for those of us struggling with acne?”

Absolutely — you’re not alone. Hormonal acne often flares around the jawline and chin, especially before periods, and can persist well into adulthood. A few key tips:

Stick to a simple, consistent routine. Overloading your skin with too many actives can worsen inflammation.
Ingredients like benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, and azelaic acid can be helpful for mild to moderate cases in the first instance.
For hormonal or persistent acne, prescription treatments — such as topical retinoids or oral medications like spironolactone — often offer more lasting control.

Are there any specific products you recommend as a universal must-have?

Yes — SPF is the absolute non-negotiable. A broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher), worn daily, is your best defence against pigmentation, premature ageing, and skin cancer.

If you’re prone to melasma or pigmentation, I often recommend tinted sunscreens. These contain iron oxides, which offer extra protection against visible light — an often-overlooked trigger for melasma.

I prefer gentle cleansers, particularly balm cleansers, which cleanse effectively without stripping the skin barrier.

For dry or eczema-prone areas, simple ointment-based moisturisers — even something basic from Boots — can be incredibly effective. They often contain fewer preservatives than creams and do a better job at sealing in moisture.

I had no idea about iron oxides! What’s your number one skincare rule or tip?

Consistency over complexity. You don’t need a complicated routine — just a few well-chosen products, used regularly and correctly, make the biggest difference.

If you’re using a prescription retinoid it’s important to find the strength that suits your skin. Not everyone needs (or tolerates) the highest dose — it’s better to settle into a level that gives you results without irritation.

And finally — don’t wait until skin problems get severe to seek help. Early, evidence-based intervention can save a lot of stress later on.

What would be your recommended routine for those of us worried about signs of ageing?

For ageing concerns, focus on products that protect, stimulate renewal, and support the skin barrier:

Morning:

Gentle cleanse
Antioxidant serum (like vitamin C)
Moisturiser
Broad-spectrum SPF 30+ — every single day

Evening:

Cleanse (balm cleansers are great)
Prescription retinoid or over-the-counter retinol (build up slowly) you can combine or add in extra skin brightening ingredients like arbutin to increase efficacy. I’m a fan of antioxidants like Niacinamide and ferrulic acid.
Moisturiser to support the skin barrier

Hydration, consistent SPF, and a well-tolerated retinoid are your foundation.

Tretinoin seems to be a skincare ingredient that has gone viral too. Can you tell us more about this product and how it could be useful?

Tretinoin is a prescription-strength retinoid, a derivative of vitamin A. It’s one of the most well-researched and effective ingredients for treating acne, improving skin texture, and reducing signs of ageing. It works by increasing cell turnover, unclogging pores, and stimulating collagen production.

That said, not everyone needs the highest strength — irritation is common when starting. I recommend starting with a lower strength, using it a few nights per week, and building up gradually. And always pair it with SPF and moisturiser.

At Uncouth we have different bases available to suit different skin types and we can combine tretinoin with a variety of ingredients to improve results, minimise side effects and simplify your routine.

That’s great to hear! Is diet really that important when it comes to skin health too? What about our water consumption?

Diet does play a role — but it’s not about perfection. For acne, there’s growing evidence that high-glycaemic diets and excess dairy, can trigger breakouts in some people. However this is likely to be more of a contributory factor.

As for water: hydration is important, but drinking loads of water alone won’t magically clear your skin. Think of it as piece of the puzzle, alongside sleep, stress, skincare, and hormones.

I can vouch for that as dairy does break me out, as well as oily, sugary foods. Is it ok to wear make-up every day, or do you recommend having days off?

It’s absolutely fine to wear make-up daily, as long as you’re removing it thoroughly at night and using non-comedogenic products (formulated not to clog pores). Skin doesn’t need a “break” from make-up — but it does need good cleansing habits to stay healthy underneath.

Great! I do love make-up! And finally, do we all need to be using retinols/retinoids and multi-step routines, or is a simple cleanse and moisturise ok too?

You don’t need a 10-step routine to have healthy skin. A basic routine — cleanser, moisturiser, and SPF — is perfectly fine. That said, if you have specific concerns like acne, pigmentation or signs of ageing, then retinoids, antioxidants, and targeted actives can offer real benefits.

But it’s not “all or nothing.” Start simple, and only add products if they serve your skin’s needs. Skin care should feel sustainable, not overwhelming.

Thank you so much! This has been super helpful!

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June 18, 2025 0 comments

Skin Care

The Main Ways from Neora to Protect Your Skin from Chlorine | by Joana Smith

by Lina Clémence June 18, 2025

written by Lina Clémence

A ѕwіmmіng рооl іѕ a great рlасе to ѕреnd your tіmе for еxеrсіѕе as well аѕ hаvіng enjoyment. However, maintaining a ѕwіmmіng pool can ѕоmеtіmеѕ bесоmе a default tаѕk, аnd thе соѕtѕ саn аlѕо suddenly jump іf the right level of the сhеmісаlѕ in thе рооl іѕ not maintained. Chlorine іѕ considered a vіtаl сhеmісаl ѕіnсе it саn kіll harmful bacteria, but when it dоеѕ, іt can аlѕо burn off vеrу quickly.

Effect of chlorine to skin

If ѕwіmmіng is a раrt оf уоur daily or weekly rоutіnе, but you hаtе рооl сhlоrіnе’ѕ negative ѕіdе effects. Whіlе сhlоrіnе’ѕ harsh еffесtѕ оn thе ѕсаlр (аnd thаt nаѕtу knасk fоr turnіng your hаіr green) get all thе attention, іt turnѕ оut thаt рооl chemicals may be еԛuаllу unkind to уоur ѕkіn if you’re not careful. (If you’ve ever fеlt itchy аftеr ѕwіmmіng іn a pool, уоu’vе аlrеаdу еxреrіеnсеd thіѕ “scaly mеrmаіd” ѕkіn.)

Ways from Neora to protect your skin from chlorine

Prер Уоur Ѕkіn With A Barrier Сrеаm

Chlorine іѕ аddеd tо swimming рооlѕ tо dіѕіnfесt аnd рrеvеnt thе rіѕе and spread оf bасtеrіаl, viral, аnd protozoan diseases. Due to іtѕ саuѕtіс nаturе, сhlоrіnе іѕ a саuѕе of іrrіtаnt соntасt dermatitis, namely rеd, drу, іtсhу ѕkіn.
In order tо avoid that unсоmfоrtаblе itch аnd rеdnеѕѕ, іt is rесоmmеndеd tо prepping уоur skin wіth a barrier cream bеfоrе getting in the рооl. Lооk for Nеоrа рrоduсtѕ wіth glycerin, оіlѕ or реtrоlаtum lіѕtеd on the іngrеdіеntѕ. Bonus іf іt contains dimethicone, which fоrmѕ a ѕеаl bеtwееn the сhlоrіnе and your dеlісаtе skin.

Shоwеr And Mоіѕturіzе Аftеr You Соmе Оut Frоm Thе Рооl

You аlrеаdу know you uѕuаllу need tо rіnѕе оff bеfоrе entering the pool, реr the lіѕtеd rules. But if уоu wait untіl уоu get hоmе tо ѕhоwеr аftеr a swim, уоu’rе dоіng your ѕkіn a dіѕѕеrvісе. Rіnѕе оff rіght аftеr! Dо not lеt thе сhlоrіnаtеd wаtеr ѕіt оn the ѕurfасе fоr аn ехtеndеd реrіоd. Wаrm-tо-сооl, сlеаn water іѕ bеѕt to avoid additional drуnеѕѕ.
Yоu may аlѕо uѕе a mіld аnd hуdrаtіng сlеаnѕеr or bоdу wаѕh tо start tо restore thе ѕkіn’ѕ рH bаlаnсе frоm thе рооl сhеmісаlѕ. Aftеr rіnѕіng off, іt іѕ rесоmmеndеd to rеаррlу a mоіѕturіzеr tо restore hуdrаtіоn tо thе skin.

Swіm Іn Оutdооr Pools

Indооr pools trap соntаmіnаtеd air, making chlorinated pools ѕurrоundіng аrеаѕ stuffy аnd оdоrоuѕ. To dесrеаѕе the number of сhlоrаmіnеѕ, уоu inhale, trу to ѕwіm in an outdoor рооl. If thе соld fаll or winter seasons prevent you frоm ѕwіmmіng outdoors, swim іn іndооr pools thаt hаvе hіgh funсtіоnіng vеntіlаtіоn аnd аіrflоw.

Aftеr a refreshing dір, уоu mау bе tempted just to lеt thе ѕun dry уоu оff. That’s nоt thе bеѕt іdеа. There іѕ a mіѕсоnсерtіоn thаt air-drying is bеnеfісіаl fоr thе ѕkіn, but thаt’ѕ nоt thе саѕе. Aіr-drуіng wіll lеаd to mоrе drуnеѕѕ of thе skin. It іѕ rесоmmеndеd to rinse оff with clean wаtеr аnd then drу yourself wіth a cotton tоwеl instead. Aftеr that, it’s tіmе tо gеt bасk tо ѕunnіng — аftеr applying Nеоrа ѕkіnсаrе, оf course.

Dоn’t Fоrgеt Your Fасе

Luckily, swimming dоеѕn’t usually lеаd tо brеаkоutѕ оn your face. However, іt may bе as drу аnd irritating fоr thе face as for thе rеѕt оf your body. Hуdrаtіоn bеfоrе аnd аftеr ѕwіmmіng іѕ vіtаl. And remember to rіnѕе your face right аftеr the рооl.
After all, by fоllоwіng the іnfоrmаtіоn above, now уоu саn bе еаѕіеr to maintain thе level оf сhlоrіnе in уоur swimming pool.

June 18, 2025 0 comments

Beauty

Medicube Zero Pore Pad 2.0 – Is it worth the hype ? Review on Indian Medium Skin – MAKEUPHOLIC WORLD

by Lina Clémence June 17, 2025

written by Lina Clémence

I had been struggling with large, open pores for quite some time and had tried numerous methods to reduce their appearance without much success. It was a frustrating experience as I couldn’t find a solution that effectively minimized the size of my pores. I experimented with various skincare products and routines, but nothing seemed to provide the results I was looking for.

Then, I came across the Medicube Zero Pore Pads and decided to give them a try based on the promising reviews and ingredients they contained.

The Medicube Zero Pore Pads are designed to exfoliate and refine pores, making them perfect for individuals who are concerned about enlarged pores, seeking smoother skin texture, dealing with excess oiliness, or facing issues with blackheads and whiteheads. The Medicube Zero Pore Pads 2.0 are dual-textured facial toner pads designed to exfoliate the skin and minimize the appearance of pores. They contain 4.5% Lactic Acid AHA (alpha hydroxy acid) and 0.45% Salicylic Acid BHA (beta hydroxy acid). The AHA and BHA ingredients work to gently exfoliate the skin, removing dead skin cells and impurities, while also helping to control oil production and prevent clogged pores.

Ingredients

Water, methylpropanediol, trometamine, lactic acid, alcohol denat., 1,2-hexanediol, panthenol, glycereth-26, salicylic acid, ammonium acrylic acrylicqudimethyltaurate/VP, copolymer, betaine, trehalose, polyglyceryl-10 laurate, ethylhexylglycerin, glycerin, allanemia that. Toin, Polyglyceron yl-10 Myristate, Disodium EDTA, Butylene Glycol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Betaine Salicylate, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Zest Oil, Lime Zest Oil (Lemon), Citrus Citrus Peel Oil Grandis (Grapefruit), Citrus Aurantium Bergamo Fruit Oil IA (Bergamote) ), leaf oil of rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary). Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf Oil, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil, Vitis Vinifera Fruit Extract (Grape), Aurantifolia Citrus Fruit Extract (Lime), Citrus Lime (Lemon) Fruit Extract, Pyrus Malus Fruit Extract (Apple), Aurantium Dulcis Citrus Fruit Extract (Orange), Ethyl Hide exanediol, extract from Centella Asiatica, Slix Alba (Willow) Bark Extract, Origanum vulgar Leaf Extract, Chamaecyparis Obtusa Leaf Extract, Lactobacillus/Soy Ferment Extract, Cinnamomum Cassia Bark Extract, Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract, Portulaca Oleracea Extract, Oleracea Extract, Oleracea Extract, Oleracea enothera Biennese is (primrose) Flower Extract, Pinus Palustris Leaf Extract, Ulmm us Davidiana Root Extract, Pueraria Lobata Root Extract, Limonene

How to use them

These pads are intended to be used after cleansing, with the user leaving the pad on the skin for 5 to 10 minutes before gently patting in the remaining essence. They are formulated to be suitable for all skin types, and are designed to improve skin texture, minimize pores, and promote a smoother, clearer complexion.

I absolutely adore the Medicube Zero Pore Pads 2.0! These little pads have become a staple in my skincare routine, and for good reason. They work wonders on my skin by gently exfoliating and effectively controlling oil production, while also minimizing my pores. What I love most about these pads is how easy they are to use – simply apply after cleansing and leave on for 5 to 10 minutes before patting in the remaining essence. They are incredibly gentle and have not caused any irritation to my sensitive skin. I’ve noticed a significant improvement in the texture and clarity of my skin since incorporating them into my routine.

The result is a smooth and refreshed complexion that I can’t get enough of. I am adding before and afer pictures of my face and after pictures are taken after a month’s use

One of the things I appreciate about these pads is that they don’t hve any strong fragrance. It felt lavender-citrusy to me, not overpowering. The double-sided, durable design ensures that I get the most out of each pad. Additionally, the non-sticky formula is a bonus that I appreciate. The single pad notably cover both the face and neck, and they have also shown good results in reducing recurring acne bumps and improving pore size. I use these pads about 2-3 times a week, usually at night after cleansing my face and patting it dry. I make sure to skip using them on days when I use Retinol or after I’ve had hydra facials or skin PRP treatments. While some may be tempted to refrigerate the product for a cooling effect, it’s essential to note that this could lead to premature drying of the toner essence. Additionally, caution is advised when using it alongside other actives to avoid potential irritation. When incorporating the toner pads into your routine, it’s advisable to streamline your skincare regimen and refrain from using conflicting products. I personally used the Hyaluronic acid followed by Estee Lauder ANR OR Clarins Double Serum OR Shesha Ayurveda Kumkumadi Cream alongside the toner pads. For optimal results, users should have some experience with similar products, such as Pixi Glow Tonic, prior to using the Medicube Zero Pore Pad 2.0.

Overall, the Medicube Zero Pore Pads 2.0 are formulated to provide an effective solution for exfoliation and pore care, helping users achieve a healthier and more radiant skin appearance. I wouldn’t say pores can completely disappear, But it does blur them to a great extent almost invisible unless under closer proximity. If you’re on the hunt for a quick and effective solution to tackle enlarged pores or oily skin, I wholeheartedly recommend giving the Medicube Zero Pore Pads 2.0 a try. Buy here

June 17, 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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Skin Care

Healing/Downtime Ellacor vs. Profound Skin Tightening

by Lina Clémence June 17, 2025

written by Lina Clémence

What is the difference in downtime and healing time for these two procedures?

When time and money are short, it pays to do your research on competing beauty tech. Profound uses a long pulse radiofrequency (RF) with real-time temperature and impendance (think hydration) controls. This is very different than all the other RF devices like Morpheus which use short pulse RF. Profound with the long pulse tightens much more than the others. It’s used for the lower face and upper neck, targeting the jowl area and under chin laxity. Complications are temporary and rare.

Ellacor is the relatively new “microcoring” device. It takes actual tiny “biopsies” full thickness all over the skin – hundreds of them. The idea is intuitive, but the results have not been great due to a very high rate of complications. It is also used for the lower face and upper neck area to target the jowls. Complications are fairly frequent and can last a year or more.

The tightening results are similar between the two devices. But sometimes photos really are worth a thousand words. These are untouched, no make up photos of me below. These two procedures were done 1 year apart.

Day 1: Ellacore (left) vs Pround (right)

Day 2: Ellacore (left) vs Pround (right)

Day 3-4: Ellacore (left) vs Pround (right)

Day 9-10: Ellacore (left) vs Pround (right)*

*Some of the old Ellacore discoloration is still present a year later.

I hope this helps,
Brandith Irwin, MD
Founder of SkinTour
Follow my skin tips and travels on Instagram!

June 17, 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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Skin Care

An Esthetician’s Guide to Achieving Glass Skin

by Lina Clémence June 10, 2025

written by Lina Clémence

When it comes to the “glass skin” trend, online experts are pushing intensive hydration to give a plump, dewy look but I’m here to tell, you can’t hydrate your way to achieving glass skin. As a 35 year expert esthetician, I’ll share with you how to truly get skin that is smooth-as-glass that you will absolutely love.

What Exactly is “Glass Skin”?

Glass skin is a term that refers to skin that is incredibly smooth, clear, and radiant and reflects light – almost resembling a piece of glass. It is defined as skin that is deeply hydrated, plump, and glowing with a pore-less and flawless finish. Sounds incredible, right? Let’s touch on all things glass skin.

The 4 Essentials for Achieving Glass Skin

Smooth-as-glass texture (free of bumps and blemishes with minimized pores)

Even-toned with minimal discoloration

Glowing / Circulation (a naturally healthy glow from within)

Moisture / Hydration (dewy, plump skin)

Let’s Touch on Texture

Clogged Pores

Clogged pores (known as “closed comedones”) appear as white-ish bumps on the skin. When you think of glass skin, the first thing that comes to mind is a smooth texture not bumpy. Clogged pores are not as round or firm as milia (mentioned below), but when left untreated, they tend to hang around for long periods of time.

Causes of clogged pores:
Oily skin, wrong products for your skin type, pore-clogging makeup (I’m looking at you, cream blushes and highlighters!), heavy sunscreens

Renée’s expert advice:
Receive manual extractions from an esthetician. This blockage in your pores WON’T go away on their own. Once you get them cleared out, the goal is to keep them clear with the following leave-on acid exfoliators.

Product recommendations:

BHA Clarifying Serum

Pore + Wrinkle Perfecting Serum

Milia

Milia are hard, tiny bumps on the skin that appear when keratin and hardened oil get trapped below the skin’s surface. Milia are round and, because of how they look, are sometimes described as tiny “pearls.” The hardened oil gives them an off-white color, and they appear most commonly around the eyes, nose, and cheeks.

Causes of milia:
Hyperkeratosis, heavy eye creams, smoking

Renée’s expert advice:
Receive manual extractions from an esthetician. Just like closed comedones, these don’t magically disappear. Find an esthetician who is skill in extractions for removal. Dermatologists can remove milia, too.

Product recommendations:
Overnight Eye Serum

Let’s Touch on Blemishes and Enlarged Pores

Blemishes

Blemishes can be in the form of whiteheads, pustules, or cysts. Acne can be very complicated but there are ways to prevent blemishes from forming and knowing what to do once they appear so you can achieve glass skin.

Causes of blemishes:
Hormones, incorrect products, dairy, many unknowns, a case of bad luck.

Renée’s expert advice:
See an experienced skincare professional who can help guide you to an action plan to give you results.

Product recommendations:

Anti Bump Solution

Rapid Response Detox Masque

AHA/BHA Blemish Control Cleanser

Rapid Response Detox Cleanser

Enlarged Pores

Enlarged pores are pores that have been physically stretched out by excess oil production or the loss of collagen. You most certainly can shrink these back to their original size. Otherwise, if your pores aren’t enlarged, their size is genetically determined, which means it’s impossible to make them any smaller than they’re meant to be. In this case, you can only minimize their appearance—not their actual size.

Causes of enlarged pores:
Excess oil production, hormones, age

Renée’s expert advice:
Regular use of physical and chemical exfoliants and retinol/retinoids

Product recommendations:

Pore + Wrinkle Perfecting Serum

Pro Results Power Serum

Triple Berry Smoothing Scrub

Advanced Resurfacing Serum

Let’s Touch on Skin Growths

Skin Growths

Skin growths are bumps on the face, neck, and body. They are usually benign (non-cancerous) and often begin as small flat or rough bumps.That said, it’s very important to keep an eye out for anything new or changing. Always schedule regular skin checks with your dermatologist. When in doubt, always get it checked out.

At first, these growths might be mistaken for clogged pores or breakouts, but they will never come to a head and cannot be extracted since there is no oil in them. Treating them with harsh, breakout-focused products will only result in dry, irritated skin.

Causes of skin growths:
UV damage, age, genetics, hormones, oily skin

Renée’s expert advice:
See a dermatologist for a skin check and removal (Some estheticians have devices to help with removal, too.)

Product recommendations:
Advanced Resurfacing Serum (retinol), prescription retinoid

Let’s Touch on Discoloration

Discoloration

Discoloration is an overproduction of a pigment called melanin. Genetics, sun exposure, hormones and injury to the skin are the most common causes. Once the melanin factory turns on, it can be hard to calm fussy pigment cells back down. This is why it’s so frustrating because they can take months to go away – especially the deeper your skin tone is.

Causes of discoloration:
Sun exposure, heat, blemishes, pregnancy, aging, genetics

Renée’s expert advice:
Products that fade/brighten, physical and chemical exfoliation, use SPF (during all daylight hours every single day of the year!), add an extra layer of protection with foundation makeup

Product recommendations:

HyperFix Fading Toner

Vitamin C + E Treatment

Triple Berry Smoothing Peel

Triple Berry Smoothing Scrub

Weightless Protection SPF 30

Let’s Touch on Circulation

Under-Circulation

How to tell if the skin is under-circulated:

When your skin is makeup-free, take your thumb and forefinger and gently pull on the apples of your cheeks. Using light pressure, quickly pinch the skin five times.

If your skin becomes a little pink, it’s likely that it has proper circulation.

If your skin doesn’t become pink, it’s more than likely under-circulated, and you’ll want to boost circulation. If your skin becomes red, your skin is likely over-circulated, and you’ll want to keep it calm with soothing (not energizing) products.

Basically, to get the glowing skin you want, the goal is for your circulation to be right in the middle—not too much, not too little.

Causes of under-circulated skin:
Slow blood circulation, genetics, smoking, drug use

Renée’s expert advice:
Hang your head upside down, facial massage, exercise, use stimulating ingredients, restoring the skin barrier

Product recommendations:

Mint Renewal Cleanser

Energy Boosting Toner

Triple Berry Smoothing Peel

Let’s Touch on Moisture, Hydration and Light-Reflection

Moisture Loss

Causes of moisture loss in the skin:
Dryness (lack of oil), dehydration (lack of water), build up of dead skin, weather, topical prescriptions

Renée’s expert advice:
The “Golden Minute Rule”, gentle cleansers, water infusion sealed with barrier repairing masque, creme or lotion

Product recommendations:

Moisture Infusion Toner

Skin Recovery Balm

Skin Recovery Lotion

Skin Drink Concentrate

Hydraboost Rescue Creme

Rest Day Masque

Let’s Touch on Your Glass Skin Action Plan

Take the Skin Type Quiz

Use products for your skin type

Get glowing #thereneeway

While “glass skin” is a trendy word and may go away, the goal of getting the skin to look smooth-as-glass will always be a desired look. I hope you enjoyed this post!

Celebrity Esthetician & Skincare Expert
As an esthetician trained in cosmetic chemistry, Renée Rouleau has spent 30 years researching skin, educating her audience, and building an award-winning line of products. Her hands-on experience as an esthetician and trusted skin care expert has created a real-world solution — products that are formulated for nine different types of skin so your face will get exactly what it needs to look and feel its best. Trusted by celebrities, editors, bloggers, and skincare obsessives around the globe, her vast real-world knowledge and constant research are why Marie Claire calls her “the most passionate skin practitioner we know.”

June 10, 2025 0 comments

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Asian Beauty

Target saggy skin and wrinkles with this Korean bestselling eye cream! AHC Premier Eye Cream Core Lifting (Season 12) Review | KHERBLOG

by Lina Clémence June 10, 2025

written by Lina Clémence

There’s one detail I love about this version – the rose pattern inside the box! It’s gorgeous

I can smell some floral or even rose notes in AHC Premier Eye Cream Core Lifting, if you expected that there’s no scent – it’s hidden in the middle of the formula. The texture is quite thick and rich, sometimes it clogs the tip.

AHC Premier Eye Cream Core Lifting Season 12 – Ingredients

Rosa Damascena Flower Water, Butylene Glycol, Hydrogenated Polydecene, Propanediol, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Cetearyl Alcohol, Betaine, Myristyl Myristate, Niacinamide, Phenyl Trimethicone, Water, Dipentaerythrityl Hexahydroxystearate/Hexastearate/Hexarosinate, Panthenol, Dipentaerythrityl Pentaisononanoate, Polyglyceryl-2 Stearate, 1,2-Hexanediol, PCA Dimethicone, Glyceryl Stearate, Stearyl Alcohol, Cetearyl Olivate, Sorbitan Olivate, Polyacrylate-13, Jojoba Esters, Hydroxyacetophenone, Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Wax, Hydrogenated Polyisobutene, Fragrance, Elaeis Guineensis (Palm) Oil, Ethylhexylglycerin, Glycerin, Dipropylene Glycol, Murraya Koenigii Stem Extract, Laminaria Japonica Extract, Eclipta Prostrata Leaf Extract, Adenosine, Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate, Disodium EDTA, Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Sorbitan Isostearate, Polyglycerin-3, Fructooligosaccharides, Collagen, Beta-Glucan, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Cyanocobalamin, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Tocopherol, C10-18 Triglycerides, Cetyl Palmitate, Potassium Sorbate, Ascorbic Acid, Acacia Decurrens Flower Wax, Ceramide NP, Poloxamer 188, Polyurethane-15, Coco-Betaine, Polyurethane-11

Rosa Damascena Flower Water is a rose hydrosol with anti-inflammatory properties. It’s a source of flavonoids and it’s a great choice for dry, mature and acne-prone skin types. It might be sensitizing. Butylene Glycol is a common ingredient in products. It’s not only a solvent. We use butylene glycol because it helps penetrate active ingredients, protects products from drying, and moisturizes skin and hair. This ingredient can prevent hair loss and strengthen hair. Hydrogenated Polydecene is an emollient that leaves a silky, delicate, non-occlusive film on the skin’s surface. This ingredient is ideal for sensitive skin. Propanediol, also known as natural glycol, is an alternative to propylene glycol. It is a solvent with additional moisturizing properties, making the product smooth to the touch. It can even improve the effectiveness of active ingredients.

Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride is a combination of coconut oil and glycerin. It’s a notable emollient that is quite common in skincare. It leaves a protective film on the surface of the epidermis to save your cutis from dehydration. Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride has a significant role in skin care products – it makes the application process effortless. Some people might experience pore-clogging after using Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, but pore-clogging and skin reactions to ingredients are individual. What works for you might not work for someone else. Cetearyl Alcohol is a fatty alcohol. In the beauty industry, it’s an emollient. Many people associate alcohol with something awful for the epidermis, but not every alcohol is nasty. Cetearyl alcohol leaves a moisturizing film on the skin to prevent your skin from transepidermal water loss (TEWL). We use Cetearyl alcohol to create an emulsion.

Betaine is an amino acid. We use it in skincare products for its moisturizing properties. Betaine keeps the water balance of the skin. It makes wrinkles appear less visible, and it soothes irritated skin. In hair care, betaine doesn’t only moisturize the hair. It makes hair soft and shiny. Betaine in cosmetics usually comes from sweet beetroots. It naturally occurs in the skin and hair. Myristyl Myristate is an oily emollient. It makes skin soft on the touch. This ingredient makes a film on the surface of the skin to prevent skin from TEWL (transepidermal water loss). It’s easy to apply on the skin, application is so smooth. It helps detangling hair.

Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3 – a vitamin soluble in water. It helps with problems like wrinkles, acne, skin texture, and enlarged pores and promotes collagen synthesis. Niacinamide makes the skin barrier stronger. It might be handy in cellulite treatments. Do you want to fight pigmentation or uneven skin? Try to mix niacinamide with Kojic Acid, Arbutin, Vitamin C, Tranexamic Acid or Retinol. Phenyl Trimethicone is silicone and an emollient. It improves the texture of the product and makes it easier to spread on the skin. Phenyl Trimethicone leaves a delicate film on the skin to prevent your skin from TEWL. It’s easy to remove it with cleansing products. This ingredient is useful in haircare products since it makes it easier to maintain your hair. In sunscreen, it makes products more resistant to water (it makes sunscreen more waterproof).

Water is often hidden in cosmetic products under names such as “Aqua” or “Eau”. It’s a solvent, but it’s not your regular drinking water. Water in skin care products must meet specific standards. It should be clean and free from minerals, microorganisms, or other substances. Typically, water constitutes the majority of the product’s content. Dipentaerythrityl Hexahydroxystearate/Hexastearate/Hexarosinate is a thickener. It might help with the gloss and shine of the product.

Panthenol is a humectant. It prevents skin from TEWL (Transepidermal Water Loss). Panthenol is also known as vitamin B5, and it helps with inflammation. Panthenol can soothe the skin irritated by preservatives, scent ingredients, and chemical sunscreens – it might have a meaning for lipids in our skin and skin barrier. It speeds up the healing process. It’s good to use it after sunbathing. In hair care, Panthenol has moisturizing properties. If you have problems detangling your hair or hair growth go for Panthenol. It is good to mix it with niacinamide and zinc oxide. You can see it in products for atopic dermatitis or psoriasis. Dipentaerythrityl Pentaisononanoate is an emollient and thickener.

Polyglyceryl-2 Stearate is a non-ionic surfactant and oily emollient. It’s mostly used as an oil-in-water emulsifier. 1,2-Hexanediol is a synthetic solvent and preservative. It protects products from microorganisms by boosting other preservatives. At the same time, it can moisturize the skin and has no unpleasant effects on the epidermis. PCA Dimethicone is a silicone. It works as occlusive and we use PCA Dimethicone in hair care products since it protects hair from temperature and makes your hair look softer. Glyceryl Stearate is an emollient with emulsifying properties. Usually, when we see any alcohol, we suspect the worst. You shouldn’t be scared of Stearyl Alcohol – it’s an oily emollient. It leaves a protective film on your skin, It works as an emulsifier too.

Olivem 1000 is a combination of Cetearyl Olivate and Sorbitan Olivate. It’s a natural emulsifier, and beauty companies use it to create an oil-in-water emulsion. Worth mentioning it’s a biodegradable formula. Acticire® MB is a mix of Jojoba Esters, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Wax, Acacia Decurrens Flower Wax and Polyglycerin-3. It’s an emollient with moisturizing properties. Polyacrylate-13 is a polymer that creates a film on the skin and hair to prevent water loss. Hydroxyacetophenone is an antioxidant that is supposed to help preservatives in the formula.

Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate is an oil-in-water emulsifier. Hydrogenated Polyisobutene is an emollient. It’s a synthetic substitute for squalane. It leaves a delicate film on the skin, it prevents skin from dehydration. Fragrance (Parfum) is a scent composition. It can cause allergic reactions. Elaeis Guineensis (Palm) Oil is an oil that usually comes from Africa. It’s a source of lauric, myristic, oleic and palmitic acid. Palm oil also contains Vitamin E, beta-carotene and ubiquinone (coenzyme Q10). Beta-carotene gives it a red colour. This antioxidant has emollient properties. Ethylhexylglycerin is a preservative with subtle moisturizing and antimicrobial properties.

Glycerin or Glycerol is a humectant. Depending on the product, its origin can be natural or synthetic. It protects TEWL (transepidermal water loss), which naturally occurs in the skin. It’s one of the NMFs and a natural moisturizing factor. It’s practical in hair care. Glycerin won’t clog your skin or irritate it—just the opposite—it protects your skin from irritation. Dipropylene Glycol is a solvent with moisturizing properties. Murraya Koenigii Stem Extract is one of the ingredients in EleVastin™. It’s a patented solution for the skin that boosts the synthesis of elastic fibres in the skin, but it also protects the skin from degradation so the skin won’t lose elasticity. EleVastin™ is focused on wrinkles and skin sagging that is not only related to loss of elasticity of the skin but it’s also caused by gravity.

Laminaria Japonica Extract is an anti-inflammatory and antibacterial antioxidant. It’s a source of fucoidan and laminarin. It has moisturizing properties. Eclipta Prostrata (False Daisy) Leaf Extract is a source of vitamin C, flavonoids, triterpenes or phytosterol. False Daisy is a typical herb for Ayurveda. In skin care, this ingredient has anti-aging properties and it’s an antioxidant. In hair care, it helps with hair growth and regeneration. Adenosine naturally occurs in the skin. One of the roles of adenosine in our bodies is that of neurotransmitter. In skin care, we use adenosine for its anti-wrinkle properties. Adenosine is an anti-inflammatory ingredient. It can boost collagen production. At the same time, it speeds up the healing process. Adenosine can have positive effects on reducing redness. In hair care, adenosine can help with hair loss.

Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate is an emulsifier. Disodium EDTA neutralizes metal ions in the formula to keep products fresh. Ethylhexyl Palmitate is an oily emollient that provides a satin-like film on the skin. It makes brushing your hair easier. Sorbitan Isostearate is an emulsifier. Polyglycerin-3 is a humectant since this ingredient is made out of glycerin molecules. It helps promote active ingredients deeper. Fructooligosaccharides are prebiotics. They nourish the skin and help the microbiome. Collagen is a big moisturizing molecule that leaves a film on the surface of the skin. It’s an ingredient that naturally occurs in our skin. Collagen is made of amino acids. In our skin, we can find collagen types I and III. Collagen can’t penetrate your skin, but it makes your skin barrier stronger and it can make wrinkles less visible visually.

Beta-glucan is a polysaccharide that can come from yeast, seaweed, or fungi. It’s one of the best humectants with soothing properties. It might help reduce wrinkle visibility on the epidermis. Some sources say it might be an antioxidant. Mix it with niacinamide and retinoids or use it after skincare treatments to heal the skin quickly. Beta-glucan leaves a film on the skin to prevent TEWL and lock the moisture inside the skin. Hydrogenated Lecithin is a version of lecithin. It works as an emollient in the formulas. Cyanocobalamin is nothing else than vitamin B12. It’s a water-soluble antioxidant. It’s an ingredient which you can find in products for wrinkles and pigmentation since this vitamin can help with both. Vitamin B12 is important for hair as well – it might help with dandruff, hair loss and hair breakage.

Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid is a low-weight humectant. We have to remember that not every molecule can get through the skin surface and lower molecule HA can penetrate the skin deeper and bring moisture inside the skin. It’s a natural polymer that binds water in the skin to prevent TEWL (transepidermal water loss). Tocopherol is an antioxidant known as Vitamin E. It’s an oil-soluble vitamin that fights free radicals and makes UVB protection and natural lipid barrier stronger. It’s good to mix it with vitamin C for better effects. Oily skin might react with pore-clogging to vitamin E. It is not true that vitamin E works as a preservative or helps with scars. C10-18 Triglycerides is emollient and solvent. Cetyl Palmitate is an oily emollient. Potassium Sorbate is a water-soluble preservative. It’s a weak preservative, and it should be paired with another preservative.

Ascorbic Acid is an antioxidant that stimulates collagen (type I and III) and elastin production. It helps with pigmentation – both PIE & PIH. It is better to use vitamin C during the morning routine because it boosts the efficiency of sunscreen. Ascorbic Acid can fix what free radicals destroy. Brands recommend mixing ascorbic acid with ferulic acid and vitamin E. Vitamin C has a cardinal role in strengthening the blood vessels and boosting wound healing. Ascorbic Acid in a concentration above 10% might be too irritative for sensitive skin or rosacea – even some acne-prone skin might not enjoy it. Ceramides naturally occur in the skin – it’s like cement in the skin. Ceramide NP or Ceramide 3 strengthens the skin barrier to prevent dehydration. Poloxamer 188 is an emulsifier. It’s used for oil-in-water formulas. Polyurethane-15 is a film-forming ingredient. Coco-Betaine is a mild surfactant popular in hair care and skin care. It has antistatic properties. Polyurethane-11 is a film-forming ingredient.

How does AHC Premier Eye Cream Core Lifting (Season 12) work?

Let’s go through some technology and perks of AHC Premier Eye Cream Core Lifting first.

AHC promotes Premier Eye Cream Core Lifting as a cream that targets not only wrinkles but also the elasticity of the skin and problems caused by gravity. Now probably many of you think it’s bullshit, but it’s not. The truth is that aging is more complicated than you think, it’s not only oxidative stress and free radicals! It’s also hormones and its activity, collagen degradation and many other problems. It’s normal that with age women go through menopause which usually ends up for us with a decrease in estrogen activity. Skin gets thinner and looser, that’s a part of which gravity is going to take the biggest part since it makes our loose skin sag. One of the popular treatments lately is SMAS (Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System) lifting. SMAS itself is a three-layered structure that connects mimetic muscles with the dermis. This structure is mostly made out of fat cells, collagen and elastin fibres. SMAS thins with age and it affects skin sagging as well. So using solutions like EleVastin™ which AHC added to Premier Eye Cream Core Lifting might have sense.

EleVastin™ was developed by Gattefossé, a company that’s been on the market for 145 years. This company patented many innovative solutions for the skin. Another surprising ingredient is AHC’s human-identical Collagen6™, lately I’ve started to notice that AHC is focused more on collagen than peptides and that’s so unusual! On the other hand, I’m not surprised at all. It’s a combination of 6 types of collagen: T1 (COL1A1), T2 (COL1A2), T3 (COL1A3), T4 (COL1A4), T5 (COL1A5), T17 (COL1A17) and T21 (COL1A21). It doesn’t mean that AHC uses human collagen. They used matching amino acid sequences in the active region.

In season 10, the innovation was the use of particles that are 1/1000 size of the pore size. AHC Premier Eye Cream Core Lifting Season 12 proves that AHC can do even better! Particles in this formula are 1/1,200 size of the pore size. According to the brand, particles can now penetrate 2,5 times deeper and they tested that on 21 women. One thing you have to know – AHC tests every single thing they share with customers so if you feel like there’s no way a product can be so innovative – they have papers to prove you wrong. As a person who works in the Asian beauty market, I see that many people in Western countries are not aware that the brands they use are made for Western customers or are quite inexpensive, but the cost of logistics made them expensive and that’s why it’s common to hear unpleasant things about K-beauty from people who probably haven’t ever heard about AHC or aren’t aware about the technology behind Laneige products.

Read more about: AHC Ten Revolution Real Eye Cream for Face (Season 10)

The process of making particles so small is quite complex. AHC uses the quadruple pressure method, it’s a patented AHC method that uses ultra-high speed and ultra-high pressure.

The main base for this product is Rosa Damascena Flower Water, aka rose water. It’s an interesting choice. Not that innovative, but unexpected. AHC Premier Eye Cream Core Lifting might have “eye cream” in its name, but this line of eye creams is called “eye cream for face” for a reason – it’s not only a product that works around the eye area, you can use it on your entire face (and neck!) to target wrinkles and elasticity in other parts of your face.

There are some things to love this eye cream for, I enjoyed it even more than I enjoyed the previous version even if I don’t have problems with skin sagging (and I hope these problems won’t be mine for as long as it’s possible), but with the amount of time I spend on sleep and amount of time I use computer or smartphone, I’m joking that the only way my eye area still does well are AHC eye creams. I had a moment in which I had to switch to another cream from the AHC series (I used AHC Pro Shot Hyaluro-Deep Volume 5 Capsule-Infused Eye Cream For Face after eye surgery). For years I’ve been introducing my family to AHC Eye Creams and this year my cousin got obsessed with the lifting of this version. According to her, the saggy skin around her eye looks more lifted. Obviously, there’s no way to measure that but if that’s what she sees and feels then I’m glad she enjoyed it.

I usually felt like every 2nd season was not that good, but since season 9 AHC has proven to me that each new product has some innovative approach. They didn’t release any eye cream I wouldn’t enjoy in the last few years. Still, I believe AHC Premier Eye Cream Core Lifting (Season 12) is going to be most suitable for women over the age of 35 since they are usually affected by estrogen activity.

Where to find AHC Premier Eye Cream Core Lifting (Season 12) and how much does it cost?

AHC Premier Eye Cream Core Lifting (Season 12) is available at YesStyle*, it costs $13.36 for a 40ml tube, but you can use my affiliate code BETWEENDOTS to save an additional 2-5% off. There’s also a mini size on YesStyle*, it costs $6.16/12 ml so it’s more affordable to go with full size.

Overall, once again I’m not disappointed with AHC. If you’re over 35 and you want to focus on the eye area of skin sagging, give AHC Premier Eye Cream Core Lifting (Season 12) a try, it might be a solution your skin needs.

June 10, 2025 0 comments

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Beauty

Nourish Your Skin with a DIY Coconut + Honey Body Wash

by Lina Clémence June 9, 2025

written by Lina Clémence

I’m on a mission to detox my beauty products and replace them with natural DIY alternatives. Whipping up a homemade body scrub is an addicting starting point because pretty soon you start thinking, what about the stuff I use every day? The first two I tackled were biggies—deodorant and toothpaste—and now I’m on a roll! Next up: a body wash with 2 of my favorite ingredients, honey and coconut oil, for a nourishing and wonderfully-smelling honey body wash.