KA-EX, the world's first fast-acting cortisol stress reducer, is finally available in the U.S.
You'll never believe the story behind this citrus-flavored, highly effective drink: KA-EX, the dedicated sports nutrition brand, was originally launched in Switzerland as … wait for it … a hangover cure. This not-too-sweet natural beverage was widely embraced by the Swiss following long nights out, but almost as quickly, KA-EX was also embraced by professional and amateur athletes, due to its recovery benefits after a hard workout, sports game, competition or marathon.
KA-EX reduces the 'stress hormone' cortisol within just 48 hours, while other benefits include reduction in muscle soreness, an increase in energy, longer REM sleep duration, reduction in mood disturbances, and protection against sport-induced premature skin aging. Something that can improve both sleep and skin – where do we sign up?
Advertisement
The brain behind KA-EX is CEO and founder Pedro Schmidt, a self-proclaimed 'nerd' who graduated from the pharmaceutical sciences program at the ETH Zurich – the same prestigious university that Albert Einstein attended. That's where, Schmidt tells the New York Post, 'I got interested in researching ways to improve hangover recovery – basically accelerate and also minimize the toxic effects of alcohol.' After all, most college students party too hard, and feeling good the next day is top of mind.
CEO and Founder Pedro Schmidt
Photo courtesy of KA-EX
After Schmidt graduated, he started working at a high-paying pharmaceutical company in oncology and hepatology, but continued on his hangover-cure research before becoming a full-time entrepreneur. 'I was fascinated by the whole topic, and I got my first prototype, which I myself found very efficacious,' he explains. 'I gave it to my friends to test, and they basically pushed me to quit my job and bring it to market.'
After a successful launch in pharmacies, KA-EX ('kater' is the German word for 'hangover,' and ex as in 'gone') quickly gained in popularity in Switzerland. Then something unexpected happened: 'More and more people started writing to us that KA-EX is an absolute game-changer for their post-workout recovery,' he recalls. 'They sleep better, feel more energized the next day, and see some significant progress in their [workout] performance.'
Advertisement
Eventually, professional athletes started approaching KA-EX, asking if it was safe to use. After three successful clinical trials, along with many athletes' stamp of approval, KA-EX repositioned itself as a dedicated sports nutrition brand.
Schmidt unlocked the science on how to successfully reduce cortisol, which linked workout recovery and hangover recovery. 'In sports, cortisol management is an absolute game-changer, but it also plays a role in hangover recovery,' he says. 'So that is why I targeted cortisol management in the first place.'
According to an independent study, the scientific staff of the Swiss national football team tested their players' cortisol levels and how KA-EX affected their recovery. After a game, an athlete's cortisol spikes, and it would take them 72 hours to get back to normal. After drinking KA-EX, however, their cortisol levels changed within 48 hours with a decrease of 36%. That percentage can make a huge difference in recovery!
Here are some signs you have high cortisol levels:
It's hard to make progress in your training, and you feel like you've plateaued
You're not able to achieve maximal performance potential
You have a hard time falling asleep
You wake up in the middle of the night
Advertisement
'While phosphatidylserine is the key ingredient directly involved in lowering cortisol, its fast-acting efficacy comes from a synergistic formula that supports multiple biological processes,' Schmidt explains. 'By promoting muscle repair and sleep through targeted amino acids, normalizing tissue pH levels, and reducing inflammation, the overall stress response is calmed more rapidly and effectively.'
Photo courtesy of KA-EX
Some of the biggest early supporters of KA-EX are members of professional sports teams, including world champions and Olympic winners across a variety of sports. Fabian Cancellara, a two-time Olympic gold medalist and CEO of Tudor Pro Cycling Team, states, 'As a holistic recovery product, KA-EX is the perfect complement to offer our rider the best possible conditions for top performance.' Zhou Guanyu, F1 driver for Alfa Romeo, says, 'Our team relies on KA-EX to be at our best in every circumstance.'
Schmidt adds, 'Although KA-EX became popular through high-performing athletes, in Switzerland now it is one of the best-selling supplements on the market, sold in pharmacies, supermarkets, convenience stores and gyms. It is used by a very broad audience who are looking to improve their general well-being and day-to-day energy.'
Advertisement
This product comes in a patented bottle that keeps the powder separate from the pre-mixed liquid to preserve the stability of sensitive ingredients. The separation ensures that acidic and alkaline substances remain apart until activation. Once mixed, it should be consumed within an hour.
After a successful launch last year at California locations of Equinox, KA-EX is currently available at Equinox Earthbar locations in New York and Los Angeles, Happier Grocery in New York City, GoPuff, BevMo, several F45 studios, Amazon, and The Feed. You can also find it online at KA-EX.com.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time Business News
3 hours ago
- Time Business News
Biologics CDMO Surges with Chronic Disease Rise and Innovation Demand
Biologics have made major impact when it comes to tackling the inflammation that causes so much damage to joints and other organs in conditions like arthritis and other inflammatory diseases. Companies specializing in Biologics CDMO, or Contract Development and Manufacturing Organizations, provide crucial services in developing and manufacturing these biological medical products for the pharmaceutical industry. Increasing cases of chronic diseases and growth in ageing population has contributed in market growth. Growing demand for novel therapies and need for huge capital investment for innovative & advanced technologies in pharmaceutical companies is further expected to provide lucrative opportunities in Biologics CDMO domain. Key Growth Drivers and Opportunities Rising Prevalence of Cancer Diseases: Growing prevalence of cancer diseases has become a major factor in Biologics CDMO market growth. Different types of cancer are on the rise due to poor and unhealthy lifestyles. Breast cancer, lung cancer, liver and kidney cancer, and pancreatic cancer are on the rise. For instance, according to Center for Disease and Control and Prevention (CDC), In the United States in 2019, 1,752,735 new cancer cases were reported and 599,589 people died of cancer. Emerging Pharmaceutical and Biotech Companies: Increasing need for CDMOs from emerging pharmaceutical and biotech companies has boosted the target market's growth. The rise in the number of clinical trials has become a major driver of target market expansion. According to Food and Drug Administration (FDA) there are around 50 ongoing clinical trials in cell and gene therapy by major and emerging biotech or pharmaceutical companies. Challenges There are several challenges faced by CDMOs, are cost pressure, fierce competition, consolidation, and constant technological innovations, which may hamper the market growth. The wrong innovative CDMO solution provider may lead to a bad customer experience and variations in the standards of customer service may lead to quality problems. Moreover, this may also lead to less control over the production process, which act as a challenges and disadvantages of CDMOs which in turn hampered the demand for Biologics CDMO Innovation and Expansion Samsung Wins USD 183 Mn Pfizer Vaccine Deal In March 2023, Samsung Biologics signed a deal Pfizer to manufacture COVID-19 vaccines for Moderna. The value of the contract is USD 183 million and will run through the year 2029. This new deal worth 15% of Samsung's USD 1.2 billion revenue from 2021 year. Given initiative shows how much Samsung Biologics is stepping up as a top player in the global CDMO scene. It also makes Pfizer's supply chain much more robust when it comes to mRNA vaccines. Plus, this long-term partnership is a clear sign that both companies are committed to being ready for future pandemics. Lonza Invests $518M in Swiss Biologics Expansion In July 2022, Lonza has planned to spend USD 518 million on a large-scale fill-finish manufacturing plant in Stein, Switzerland. This new facility is set to greatly enhance Lonza's capabilities in making sterile drug products. It's specifically built to meet the growing demand for complex biologics and advanced therapies. This investment further strengthens Switzerland's reputation as a global leader in the biopharmaceutical sector. Inventive Sparks, Expanding Markets The key players operating the biologics CDMO market includes, Lonza Group, Catalent Inc., Samsung Biologics, Eurofins Scientific, Boehringer Ingelheim Group, FUJIFILM Diosynth Biotechnologies Inc., among others. Biologics CDMO companies are all about speeding up the process of creating new drugs, making sure that high-quality manufacturing can easily expand to meet demand for complex treatments. Their main goals are to foster innovation, improve efficiency, and help make healthcare accessible worldwide. About Author: Prophecy is a specialized market research, analytics, marketing and business strategy, and solutions company that offer strategic and tactical support to clients for making well-informed business decisions and to identify and achieve high value opportunities in the target business area. Also, we help our client to address business challenges and provide best possible solutions to overcome them and transform their business. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Yahoo
Perimenopause is being given a rebrand: Meet ‘cougar puberty'
Women are declaring a new name for perimenopause, a transitional period in their lives. Also called the menopausal transition, perimenopause is when the body 'makes the natural transition to menopause, marking the end of the reproductive years,' according to the Mayo Clinic. Women often experience perimenopause by their mid-forties, with symptoms including irregular periods, hot flashes, trouble sleeping, mood changes, fluctuations in cholesterol levels, and changes in sexual function. Although perimenopause can be an uncomfortable period, some women on social media are choosing to rename it 'cougar puberty.' 'You know what the cool kids are calling it now?' TikTok user @ said in a viral video posted earlier this month, as shared by the New York Post. 'Cougar puberty. You're welcome.' She shared her seal of approval for this name, writing in the caption: 'Perimenopause got a rebrand and it's amazing AF.' Women are now calling perimenopause 'cougar puberty' (Getty/iStock) In the comments, many people agreed that cougar puberty was the perfect title for perimenopause, given its symptoms. 'I'm 37 and in the full-blown throes of perimenopause, and I've always said it's like a second puberty,' one wrote. 'I've been calling it reverse puberty,' another commented, while a third agreed: 'Similar to the first time around in that it just sneaks up on you and no one told you anything about it. I prefer this name, though. Thank you.' In a video shared last year on TikTok, a woman named Lisa also explained why she thought cougar puberty was 'the best term' for perimenopause. 'Actually, I feel like I'm going through puberty, but with a whole bunch of different symptoms,' she said. 'And I feel like I'm going crazy, and all these things are happening to my body that I really don't understand.' On Monday, another woman who goes by the username @Peace_Love_GenX said she'd also be referring to menopause, which is when a woman's menstrual cycle ends entirely, by this new name from now on. 'I was today years old when I heard somebody call menopause a cougar puberty, and now I'll never call it anything else,' she wrote in the text over the video. According to the Mayo Clinic, the level of estrogen in a woman's body 'rises and falls unevenly during perimenopause,' which can last an average of four years. As a result, menstrual periods can lengthen or shorten, and people can experience menopause-like symptoms, including hot flashes, sleep problems, and vaginal dryness. Often, menstrual periods can skip a month, or even a few months, and return during perimenopause. Women can also still get pregnant during perimenopause. However, once women have gone 12 consecutive months without having their periods, the 'perimenopause period is over.' They've then officially reached menopause, which women often enter in their forties or fifties.
New York Post
2 days ago
- New York Post
My favorite beauty products for a budget-friendly glam are all under $25
New York Post may be compensated and/or receive an affiliate commission if you click or buy through our links. Featured pricing is subject to change. With a classic catalog of retinol creams, full-coverage foundations and shampoos to sort through at your favorite retailers, your subtotal can cost a pretty penny before you know it. Though I love those fancy formulas and splurge-worthy skincare items, I've learned — through research and years of product testing — that beauty doesn't necessarily have to break the bank. From best-selling Amazon products (including the retailer's beauty products on everyone's wishlists) to the best concealers and cream blushes you can get your hands on, I rounded up this year's must-have hair, makeup and skincare products — all under $25. In short, these are the products I'd express-order from Amazon if on a deserted island. If I could. Ahead, find the exclusive edit of the buzziest beauty products on the market. Rest assured these are the top products to try next if you want the best of beauty but don't want price tags to get the best of you. Amazon Pros: Sulfate-free, so offers a gentle cleanse Formulated with niacinamide and zinc to help hydrate the hair Cons: Overuse can lead to dry hair, so use every other day if you have fine to medium hair Meet the quiet champion in the drugstore aisle: the Dove Scalp+ Density Boost Hydrating Shampoo. Clocking in at under $12, this sulfate-free formula doesn't just promise healthier hair; it delivers it with clinical precision. Developed by dermatologists, it's part of Dove's Scalp+ Hair Therapy line, a range that speaks to the increasingly loud demand for hair care that treats the scalp with the same care we give our skin. In other words: this isn't just shampoo. Victoria Giardina The brilliance of the formula lies in its skincare-inspired simplicity. Packed with vitamin B3, zinc, peptides and moisture-balancing agents, it goes beyond surface-level cleansing to restore the scalp's ecosystem, which is essential for anyone experiencing thinning, dryness or dullness. After using this shampoo for more than a year, my scalp feels more hydrated and volumized at the roots. It may be a less-than-$25 product, but it's the unsung hero that's playing in the same league as high-end competitors — minus the inflated price tag and overhyped promises. And, let's not forget the ethics. Dove's formula is vegan, PETA-approved and free from sulfates and harsh stripping agents. In a market dominated by greenwashed marketing, that kind of transparency matters. But even if it didn't, the results speak for themselves. Best Conditioner: Aussie Miracle Moist Conditioner Amazon Pros: Helps detangle hair Smooths frizz Great for dry hair Cons: Packaging can be improved In an era where hair care shelves are crowded with $40 conditioners in minimalist bottles promising miracles, Aussie Miracle Moist Conditioner is a *true* miradcle. For less than $10, this drugstore staple delivers what many prestige brands only pretend to: real hydration, softness and manageability. Its formula, enriched with avocado and Australian jojoba oil, is a love letter to thirsty hair. It's not trying to be trendy or niche. It simply works, and the ends of my usually dry hair drink it up. What Aussie understands — and executes flawlessly — is that not everyone wants a 10-step routine to achieve good hair. Miracle Moist is about ease and payoff. It detangles in seconds, smooths frizz and leaves my hair feeling genuinely nourished. It doesn't just coat strands in synthetic silkiness; it revives them. Whether you're dealing with heat damage or dryness, this conditioner consistently shows up and delivers, with a creamy texture and clean-rinsing finish that rivals formulas three times its price. Oh, and it's also cruelty free, paraben-free and dye-free, and yet still somehow feels indulgent. It doesn't compromise results, which makes this a must-have in anyone's haircare routine. The miracles don't end here. You can score both the shampoo and conditioner for $15 on Amazon. Best Face Wash: Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour HydraPlay 2-in-1 Daily Cleanser Amazon Pros: Doubles as a face mask due to its creamy formula Helps mitigate the appearance of pores Absorbs well and creates a wonderful base for other skincare products or makeup Cons: Functions as more of a hydrating face wash than a deeply penetrating cleanser, which may not be the best fit for oily or acne-prone skin types Skip the 12-step beauty routine and complicated active ingredients. The Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour HydraPlay 2-in-1 Daily Cleanser is a refreshing return to effortless elegance. It's smart, effective and unpretentious — exactly what a cleanser should be. For less than $25, you'll be using a product that moonlights as both a gentle daily face wash and a skin-softening, one-minute mask. The texture alone, a dreamy whipped mousse, is enough to make washing your face feel like a small luxury. But this isn't just about indulgence; the results are there. At the heart of HydraPlay is a formula that reads like a skincare wish list: pink kaolin clay to purify without stripping, glycerin to replenish lost moisture and a ProRenewal Complex with pre- and post-biotics to support your skin's barrier like a good friend who texts you back. It's skincare that multitasks, quietly addressing everything from clogged pores to surface dryness, all while keeping your microbiome happy. The result? A complexion that feels smooth, balanced and — dare I say — glowy, without the tightness or irritation that so often follows a deep cleanse. It's one of my favorites, hands down. And if you need proof it's more than just pretty packaging, the formulation speaks for itself. After using, my skin feels healthier-looking, more moisturized and with less pores. Translation: you don't need a cleanser that'll cost you two Benjamins. Best Makeup Remover: Aveeno Positively Radiant Makeup Removing Wipes Amazon Pros: Gentle on the skin Actually removes all makeup Doesn't clog pores Cons: May be too drying for extremely dry or flaky skin types Aveeno's Positively Radiant Makeup Removing Wipes transform a simple cleansing step into a moment of skin-loving luxury, all without demanding a premium price. Priced well under $25, these wipes harness the power of soy extract to not only dissolve makeup but subtly brighten and even out my complexion whenever I use them on my face and eyelids. Their gentle, oil-free, sulfate-free and alcohol-free formula is a thoughtful nod to sensitive skin, delivering a soothing yet effective cleanse that feels anything but basic. Victoria Giardina They're even ophthalmologist-tested and safe for contact lens wearers, and effortlessly remove stubborn eye makeup without causing irritation or redness — a rare feat in the wipe world. Their non-comedogenic formula keeps my pores clear and skin breathable, and I always wake up with a fresh face rather than a breakout. Whether I'm rushing through my nighttime routine or in need of a oil-blotting-esque refresh, these wipes perform with an easy confidence that makes them an indispensable staple. This is a two-pack, which is still less than $25! Best Face Sunscreen: The Face Shop Hydro Sun Barrier Broad Spectrum SPF 45 Sunscreen Amazon Pros: Silky smooth, lightweight formulation Layers well underneath makeup with no white cast Contains niacinamide to help soothe the skin Cons: Isn't 100% fragrance-free, though not a dealbreaker Listen, I've tested a boatload of sunscreens (seriously, you should see my dresser drawer — and yes, I have a dresser drawer filled with SPFs). Throughout my many years of testing, I learned that not all sunscreens were created equal — and The Face Shop Hydro Sun Barrier Broad Spectrum SPF 45 Sunscreen is truly a standout. While I rated the La Roche-Posay Anthelios Clear Skin Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 60 as the best face sunscreen I reviewed for most people, I've been resorting to this Korean beauty formula that's one of my favorite 2025 beauty launches. It's lightweight, doesn't leave a white cast and doubles as a silky smooth makeup primer. What's not to love? On its formulation, it's infused with niacinamide and calendula, allowing it to shield my skin from harmful UV rays but also brighten and soothe it, which visibly enhances my overall skin tone and texture. These ingredients work together to provide a subtle radiance, making the sunscreen a dual-purpose product that combines sun protection with serum-like benefits. This thoughtful formulation ensures that my face is in a state of perpetual nourishment, all while being protected throughout the day. Amazon Pros: Affordable price point Excellent value for the money, given its jar size Absorbs well and contains cocoa butter and vitamin E for long-lasting hydration Cons: Not 100% fragrance-free, so it may not be the best choice for extremely sensitive skin types It may be considered too thick for humid climates If there's one body cream that's earned its place as a holy grail for dry skin, it's the NIVEA Cocoa Butter Body Cream. This affordable gem delivers a level of nourishment that rivals high-end counterparts — without the inflated price tag. Rich but never clumpy, the cream melts into the skin with a silky ease, flooding my *very* dry elbows, knees and heels with 48 hours of moisture. The secret lies in NIVEA's signature Deep Moisture Serum, a tried-and-true blend that feels less like a skincare product and more like a rescue mission for parched skin. Victoria Giardina The luxurious infusion of cocoa butter is like no other; it's a decadent, vitamin-rich emollient that has long been a skincare staple for good reason. Combined with antioxidant-packed vitamin E, the formula hydrates and actively works to restore my skin's elasticity, luminosity and overall health. It's the one I turn to most because of how deeply nourishing it is. There's a subtle, comforting scent of warm cocoa that lingers without overwhelming, making each application feel like a small act of self-care. In short: this isn't just body cream: it's a ritual, wrapped in a jar. Key ingredients: Cocoa Butter, Vitamin E | Size: 16 ounces | Fragrance: Cocoa Amazon Pros: Contains hyaluronic acid to hydrate and nourish the skin Available in a generous roster of shades Ergonomic and practical applicator Cons: Not 100% full coverage, though not a dealbreaker Looking for a foundation that feels like luxury without the price tag? Enter the L'Oréal Paris True Match Nude Hyaluronic Tinted Serum — the beauty world's cheeky secret weapon. It's makeup and skincare all wrapped into one, dripping with 1% hyaluronic acid to deliver that fresh‑face glow while evening out your tone with sheer to medium coverage. Picture your skin in HD, but, you know, softer, smoother and plumper. I'm a bit skeptical of drugstore foundations, but this tinted formulation makes my skin feel naturally airbrushed while remaining lightweight and flattering. In one hand you've got luminous mineral pigments, and in the other, hydration that lasts. This tinted serum has an all‑day satin finish that's plumping, breathable and noncomedogenic. It glides on like water, blends like a dream (fingers give the most radiant payoff) and stays put long after your 9-to-5 (or full wedding day) without creasing or melting. While designer brands may charge triple for a tinted serum, this little wonder is less than $25. So yes, it truly is your true match. Best Concealer: NYX Professional Makeup Bare with Me Concealer Serum Amazon Pros: Affordable price point Glides onto the skin and feels like skincare, offering hydration to the skin Great for brightening and helping to correct dark circles Cons: Limited shade range May not be enough for those who need full coverage The NYX Professional Makeup Bare with Me Concealer Serum is a game-changing product that brings a fresh take on concealers. This lightweight, serum-like formula instantly gives a natural, radiant finish that comes with buildable coverage. Right off the bat, I noticed that it effortlessly blurs imperfections, dark circles and blemishes. It's also infused with skincare ingredients like aloe vera and cucumber extract to not only conceal but also hydrate and soothe my skin. That said, it's perfect for long wear. The formula is also noncomedogenic, which means it won't clog your pores, and it's suitable for all skin types, including my sensitive skin. For less than $15, it offers a skincare-like finish that I always gravitate toward. Victoria Giardina Versatile and creamy (without being goopy), the Bare with Me Concealer Serum sets itself apart from other drugstore options. It blends seamlessly into the skin, providing a smooth, skin-like finish that doesn't feel heavy or cakey. If you're looking for light coverage to even out your skin tone or need to build up to a medium coverage for more stubborn blemishes, this concealer offers you the flexibility to tailor it to your needs. The serum formula ensures that it doesn't settle into fine lines or creases, so it's especially apt for mature skin or anyone seeking a more youthful appearance. Shade range: 16 colors | Good for: Dark circles, blemishes Amazon Pros: Extremely gentle and soothing Lightweight and layerable Clean ingredients Cons: May feel too watery for some The Anua Heartleaf 77% Soothing Toner isn't just a toner — it's skincare therapy in a bottle. It's beloved for a reason, containing 77% heartleaf extract (yes, that's a lot), a botanical known in Korean herbal medicine for its anti-inflammatory, anti-redness and skin-purifying magic. When I use this product after my cleanser, I love how the lightweight, watery formula sinks in faster than a compliment on good skin, instantly calming irritation, bringing down visible redness and prepping my face like a blank canvas. Pro tip: soak a few cotton pads and press them onto inflamed areas for five minutes as a quick DIY calming mask. Where this toner really shines is in its quiet power. It's alcohol-free, fragrance-free and low-pH, meaning it respects your skin barrier instead of testing it. After cleansing, pat it gently into the skin with your hands; no need for cotton if you're aiming for full absorption. If your skin is dry or especially stressed, layer it. Yes, layer it. The '7-skin method' (applying toner in multiple light layers) makes this formula sing. It delivers bounce, hydration and visible clarity without any stickiness or shine. Key ingredient: Heartleaf Extract | Size: 8.45 ounces | Fragrance: None Best Razor: Billie Women's Shave Kit Amazon Pros: Produces a gentle, close chave The head is large enough to cut down shaving time Comes with a magnetic holder to place onto your shower wall Cons: The mechanism to replace the razor head could be more seamless and simple, though not a dealbreaker Shaving just got a serious upgrade, and it comes wrapped in a sleek matte handle with the name Billie. The Billie Women's Shave Kit is a thoughtfully engineered tool designed for real skin, real curves and real routines. At this point, it's basically the only one I use. With five ultra-sharp, nickel-free blades cushioned by aloe and charcoal shave soap, this razor glides like butter and leaves zero irritation in its wake. Whether I'm tackling tricky spots like knees and ankles or going for that all-over smoothness, Billie's pivoting head hugs every contour effortlessly. As someone prone to razor bumps, there aren't any nicks or bumps after using this tool, only a soft finish. Beyond the blade, Billie brings serious style and smarts to my shower. The magnetic holder is low-key genius (no more soggy razors laying around or questionable suction cups losing grip mid-rinse). The entire experience feels elevated: from the velvety handle (designed to never slip) to the easy snap-on cartridges that make blade-changing a breeze. It's minimal, it's functional and frankly, it looks like something I'm proud to display, not hide away in your caddy. And, perhaps the most refreshing part? Billie kicks the 'pink tax' to the curb. At less than $15 for the starter kit — which includes the razor, two refill cartridges, and the magnetic holder — it's high performance without the high markup. Refills are affordable, flexible via subscription and always cruelty free. This product is the new standard for shaving, and I recommend it to everyone. Best Makeup Primer: Neutrogena Healthy Skin Invisibly Radiant UV Primer SPF 30 Amazon Pros: Contains broad-spectrum SPF 30 that's recommended by dermatologists and protects against UVA and UVB rays Lightweight, blends well and cosmetically elegant Budget-friendly Cons: May be a bit too thin for some users, though isn't incredibly runny New from Neutrogena is its rockstar, less-than-$15 Healthy Skin Invisibly Radiant UV Primer SPF 30. It's a multi-functional product that combines skincare and makeup prep in one. This primer is impressively lightweight, provides a smooth, even base for foundation and offers the much-needed benefit of sun protection with broad-spectrum SPF 30. It's cosmetically elegant with an extraordinarily absorbable base. When I use it before my foundation, I instantly notice my skin looking more illuminated — simple radiance without that greasy feel or, worse: that unwanted white cast. It's the best makeup primer with SPF that I tested for its elegance and efficacy. In addition to SPF, this primer is infused with ingredients that promote healthier-looking skin. It contains a blend of antioxidants, including vitamins C and E, which help protect the skin from environmental stressors and free radical damage. These antioxidants not only work to protect your skin but also contribute to a more even, luminous complexion. So, I feel good whenever I use it. The primer is gentle on my sensitive skin, and I'd anticipate it working well on all skin types as it's not dryer nor greasy. It's also free from harsh chemicals or fragrances that could cause irritation. The inclusion of SPF 30 makes this primer an excellent option for daily use, as it provides essential sun protection while preparing your skin for makeup. It helps shield the skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays that contribute to premature aging and skin damage. Its smooth, radiant finish complements any makeup look, and I'm especially excited to continue using this Neutrogena primer during the warmer months. Size: 1 fl oz. | Base: Cream | Finish: Glowy | Best for: All Skin Types Best Eye Cream: Good Molecules Yerba Mate Wake Up Eye Gel Amazon Pros: Budget-friendly Instantly brightens, which is seriously impressive for a less-than-$10 product Feels silky smooth once applied Cons: Not much product in the tube, though not a dealbreaker If your under-eyes are crying out for a wake-up call, the Good Molecules Yerba Mate Wake Up Eye Gel is the kind of skincare SOS they've been waiting for. This cooling gel is powered by yerba mate extract, a natural source of antioxidants and caffeine that instantly perks up dullness and fatigue. The texture is light-as-air and absorbs in seconds, leaving no residue behind — just smoother, fresher-looking skin that feels as energized as it looks. From the first time I used this product, I was blown away. It's the product you reach for on those mornings when the snooze button won and you need to fake wide-awake in five minutes flat. What sets this brightening eye gel apart is its clean, targeted formula. It boasts caffeine to de-puff, peptides to firm and smooth and yerba mate to energize and protect — all working in harmony to revive the delicate eye area without overwhelming it. It layers beautifully under concealer, doesn't pill and won't irritate even the most sensitive skin. Plus, it's affordable enough to repurchase without flinching, which feels like a small luxury in a world where eye creams can cost more than a fancy dinner out. This isn't the kind of product that screams for attention; it quietly earns your loyalty with every early morning and late night. It's effortlessly effective, refreshingly straightforward and perfectly designed for real life. The silky texture is unbelievable, and it leaves an impressive glow that's worth screaming about (seriously). Best Blush: Versed Shade Swipe Blush Stick Versed Pros: Simple to apply with a brush or your fingers Best for travel Leaves your skin with a long-lasting flush of color Cons: Plastic cover sometimes becomes filled with product, though not a dealbreaker The Versed Shade Swipe Blush Stick is the blush BFF I never knew I needed. First off, the formula is a dream: creamy, lightweight and melts seamlessly into my skin, giving me that 'just pinched' flush without any staining or clown-face vibes. It's buildable, too. You can go from a whisper of rosy glow to a deep, camera-ready flush in a few swipes. It's truly so creamy, dreamy buildable and blendable, and that it breathes new life into my fair skin. However, its variety of shades complement any skin tone. In short: swipe, blend, blend and voilà — cheeks that look alive and effortlessly gorgeous. Now let's talk multitasking hustle. This chubby stick doubles as a lip tint or soft eyelid wash when you're going for that cute monochrome moment. Plus, it's clean (no fragrance or alcohol), full of skin-friendly emollients like caprylic triglyceride and coco-caprylate and priced less than $20. All in all, it's one my makeup bag needs at all time. Victoria Giardina Pros: Creamy finish 'The perfect nude pink lipstick' Cons: Packaging could be better, compared to some others tested For those who want to save money and have an everyday, pinky nude lipstick, run to L'Oreal Paris Glow Paradise Hydrating Balm-in-Lipstick with Pomegranate Extract (specifically, the shade '110 Pastel Exaltation'). Much to my delight, it measured up to some high-end lipsticks I've tried, its creaminess on-par with some $20 and $30 options in my makeup bag. The L'Oréal Paris Glow Paradise Hydrating Balm‑in‑Lipstick stands out as the ultimate nude lipstick thanks to its buttery balm-meets-pigment formula: infused with pomegranate extract, it delivers immediate hydration and a healthy, glassy sheen, yet still offers buildable color that flatters diverse skin tones. While the packaging could be more secure, the beauty lies in the formulation. It's worth every penny, and a good pick-me-up if you're seeking that nude-pink hybrid. How I tested An assortment of the beauty products I tested — all under $25. Victoria Giardina Ahead, here's the criteria for how I tested each beauty item under $25: Effectiveness: I evaluated how well each product delivered on its claims (including hydration, coverage and longevity). I evaluated how well each product delivered on its claims (including hydration, coverage and longevity). Ingredients: I reviewed the ingredient list for safety, quality and the presence of any potentially irritating or harmful substances. I reviewed the ingredient list for safety, quality and the presence of any potentially irritating or harmful substances. Application & Texture: I assessed how smoothly the product applied, absorbed or blended into my skin or hair. I assessed how smoothly the product applied, absorbed or blended into my skin or hair. Wear Time: I monitored how long the product lasted throughout the day under typical conditions, like heat, sweat and movement. I monitored how long the product lasted throughout the day under typical conditions, like heat, sweat and movement. Value for Price: I compared the overall performance and quantity of each product relative to its price, ensuring it offered good quality within the $25 budget. This article was written by Victoria Giardina, New York Post Commerce Journalist & Content Strategist, who has spent countless hours researching, testing hundreds of products and comparing the latest makeup, skincare, hair and beauty items and trends to determine what's truly worth your hard-earned cash. She evaluates formulas, textures, ingredients and more, in addition to consulting medical and industry experts. Some of Victoria's latest conquests include testing the best vitamin C serums on the market, and a rinse-and-repeat review of the best shampoos of 2025. Victoria, who received a beauty industry essentials certification from the Fashion Institute of Technology, has been creating shopping guides for the New York Post since 2021 and previously held positions at Insider Reviews and CNN Underscored.
