Latest news with #BrendanCamp
Yahoo
17-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Hot Take, But This Trendy Wellness Supplement Belongs in Your Skincare Routine—Here's Why
When you buy through links on our articles, Future and its syndication partners may earn a commission. If there's one supplement that has capitalized on the wellness conversation lately, it's magnesium. Essential for over 300 processes in the human body, magnesium plays a role in everything from muscle and nerve function to blood pressure regulation, energy production, and DNA synthesis. While it's not produced by the human body, magnesium is found in many foods, including dark leafy greens, whole grain breads, nuts, seeds, and certain types of fruit. Needless to say, it's important, and it makes sense why some people feel a pull to supplement their diet with magnesium powders and pills (under doctor supervision, might I add). Here's what many people might not know: While magnesium is critical for health and wellness, it's also a stellar skincare ingredient. I'm not just talking about post-workout creams and sprays either (magnesium is often used topically to relieve muscle tension). I'm talking about *actual* skincare products. When formulated into skincare products, Dermatologists say it can soothe irritation, improve barrier function, and even boost moisture retention. So, yeah, it might be time to stop subjugating it to your medicine cabinet and welcome it into your skincare routine. Keep reading to learn more about magnesium in skincare. First things first. You might remember this from high-school chemistry class (I'm having flashbacks to the Periodic Table right now), but it's a chemical element (atomic number 12 if you're wondering). Take it from double board-certified dermatologist Brendan Camp. "Magnesium is a mineral and an essential nutrient, meaning that the body does not produce it and needs to get it from external sources. It is popular as a wellness supplement because it is involved in a number of cellular reactions involving protein synthesis, muscle function, blood pressure regulation, and energy production." However, it's magnesium as a skincare ingredient that we're concerned with today. "Oral supplements are generally thought to be most effective if there is a known deficiency of a specific vitamin or mineral," Camp says. However, deficiencies aside, he says magnesium can offer real skin benefits when used topically. First, it has anti-inflammatory effects and can help calm irritation (even irritation associated with skin conditions like acne or rosacea). Second, it can strengthen and support the natural skin barrier. Third, it can improve moisture retention in the skin. Together, these benefits can lead to smoother, calmer, and clearer skin. The good news is that magnesium is generally well-tolerated as a skincare ingredient, even (and maybe even especially) for sensitive skin types. Camp says that's because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which make it suitable for "acne and rosacea-prone skin." Still, that doesn't mean you're automatically in the clear. Any skincare product can cause irritation, or worse, an allergic reaction. That's why it's best to proceed with caution. "While generally well tolerated, any skincare product, including those with magnesium, may irritate sensitive skin," Camp says. "Consider doing a test spot with any new skincare product." The star ingredients in this brightening serum are vitamin C and magnesium PCA. View Deal With magnesium, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin C, this is a skin glow-up in a bottle. View Deal "Made with magnesium, aloe, oat milk, and acai, this lightly scented calming body spray soothes and restores skin, leaving it nourished and soft," Camp says. View Deal The ultimate skin-soothing moisturizer, this formula contains magnesium, ectoin, peptides, and sugarcane-derived squalane for 360° nighttime skin restoration. View Deal This hydrating body lotion is infused with magnesium and has a subtle citrus scent. View Deal Camp recommends this soothing Bath Milk, too. "Formulated with natural fragrance, magnesium, antioxidants, and vitamins, this bath relaxes the mind and muscles and nourishes skin with restorative jojoba oil, argan oil, vitamin E, and aloe vera," he says. View Deal Neom also offers magnesium-spiked body butters, like this one. With the ingredient in question, shea butter, aloe vera, and coconut oil, it's a soothing and hydrating post-bath treat for dry skin. View Deal
Elle
16-05-2025
- Health
- Elle
13 SPF Body Lotions to Get You Through The Summer
Every item on this page was chosen by an ELLE editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy. Sunscreen is neither seasonal nor relegated to just one part of your body. Whether the sun is shining or not, facial sunscreen should be worn daily—and can be found in tinted formulas or even in the drugstore—but sometimes we forget to extend the love to our lower regions, especially in the thick of the warmer months. We get it: Some sunscreens have the goopiest, thickest texture with an unpleasant smell and leave behind a ghostly white cast—but they're a 100 percent necessary part of ensuring skin health. 'Sunscreen either absorbs ultraviolet (UV) radiation and converts it to heat energy or reflects it off the skin surface. By protecting skin from UV radiation, sunscreen prevents damage to cellular structures, namely DNA, that, if altered or damaged, can increase the risk of the development of skin cancer. Protection from UV radiation is also important to protect skin from changes related to photoaging, such as fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots,' says Dr. Brendan Camp, double board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology. If regular sunscreen formulas don't prompt you to maintain a consistent sun care routine, allow us to point you to updated versions that couple the nourishment of your favorite lotion with the protection needed to lounge about in the sun for hours without penalty. Thankfully, a slew of body lotions packed with broad-spectrum protection can hydrate, illuminate, and soothe the skin—and we found the 15 best ones. After consulting a dermatologist, perusing our own collections, and scouring the internet to find online shoppers' top-rated picks, we compiled a list of the 15 best body lotions with SPF for summer and beyond. Size: 3.4 fl oz Key ingredients: Aloe, antioxidants Rest assured, this sunscreen won't embarrass you with a pasty white cast. Formulated with aloe and antioxidants, this sunscreen coats your skin in love as it's protected and stays put through whatever sweat, wind, or water your body (or face) comes in contact with. Nordstrom rating: 5/5 stars An ELLE Editor says: 'As a vacation girlie, I love poolside lounging and sipping while baking under the sun. I hate thick, goopy sunscreens that ruin the beach goddess look I'm going for. This Bask SPF lotion smells like summer and melts into my skin without leaving that purple, Thanos-esque color on my dark skin.'—Nerisha Penrose, beauty commerce editor Size: 12 fl oz Key ingredient: Prebiotic oat complex To know Aveeno's products is to love them—and the calming oat packed in its formulas. As part of its Protect + Hydrate line, this body sunscreen contains SPF 60 to shield the skin from harsh UVA and UVB rays. On the hydrating side, this formula features a trifecta of oat forms, from oat oil to oat extract to oat flour, all working to nourish and restore balance to the skin. Amazon rating: 4.5/5 stars An Amazon reviewer said, 'Excellent as both an SPF sunscreen and a light moisturizer. I had been using a high-end 'rose' UV Defense, and this one has now replaced it at a fraction of the cost. Silky-feeling skin with adequate protection.' Size: 3.4 fl oz Key ingredients: Cucumber, green tea, hyaluronic acid For most sunscreen users, the smell and white cast are usually the most off-putting. Where most sunscreens don't typically lean earthy and fresh, this one does with no white cast in sight and doesn't require an arm workout to rub in. Revolve rating: 5/5 stars A Revolve reviewer said: 'It was love at first application! It was like applying a lightly scented body lotion that soaked right in. Not sticky. This is a winner.' Size: 1.35 fl oz Key ingredients: Murumuru and mango butters, moringa Oils Our faces and bodies reap all the benefits of our most treasured skin care products, but we seldom remember our hands. Signs of aging can crop up anywhere, and the hands are no exception, which is why you should consider this moisturizing SPF hand cream. The creamy texture is packed with oils and butters to condition the skin to slow premature aging. Fenty Beauty rating: 4.6/5 stars A Fenty Beauty reviewer said: 'Such an amazing products, Nonsticky and long-lasting. I'm obsessed with it 10/10 highly recommend.' Size: 5.07 fl oz Key ingredients: Algae, licorice root Shiseido took its OG SynchroShield sunscreen and supersized it in more ways than one. Not only does this sunscreen come in a jumbo size, but it also contains SPF 60 for more protection and extra nourishment (maybe that's why our digital beauty director wears it daily?). Algae and licorice root extract work in tandem to soothe, hydrate, and enrich stressed skin. Plus, the HeatForce and WetForce technology strengthens the formula when in contact with heat and water. Sephora rating: 4.5/5 stars An ELLE Editor says: 'This is far more moisturizing and buttery than I expected, and usually, sunscreens take a great deal of effort to rub in. I adore this one by Shiseido for its high protection and easily blendable formula that goes on clear and dries down sheer.'—Nerisha Penrose Size: 5 fl oz Key ingredients: Antioxidants, thermal spring water If long beach days are on the docket this summer, here's a reliable companion to take with you, whether on land or by the sea. La Roche-Posay's Melt-In Sunscreen glides on smoothly and has a non-greasy dry-down that makes re-application a pleasant experience instead of a dreaded one. Ulta rating: 4.3/5 stars An ELLE editor says: 'I love this multi-use sunscreen because I can put it on my face and my body. I recently was at the Miami Open and this was my sunscreen of choice. It leaves your skin moisturized, not oily, and quickly absorbs into your skin. It easily blends in and leaves no white cast, which is an automatic win for me and my melanated skin.' —Danielle James, beauty director Size: 5.5 fl oz Key ingredients: Sunflower, rosemary and rice bran extract Sunscreen has to hit many marks to be considered good, and absorbability is high on that list. This Supergoop bestseller effortlessly melts into the skin without feeling overly greasy and imparts soothing and hydrating properties via botanical extracts. Nordstrom rating: 4.5/5 stars An ELLE Editor says: 'This sunscreen has accompanied me on a lot of vacations because it's reliable, doesn't leave a white cast, and feels more like a daily lotion than a sunscreen. I love re-applying it because it has a comforting, almost nostalgic scent that reminds you of better days no matter where you are.'—Nerisha Penrose Key ingredients: Shea, cocoa seed oils, self-tanning technology Whether you're OOO or simply in need of a little color, this tanning lotion from Vacation is the pick-me-up you need. This lotion gives an instant tan that you won't need to lounge around in the sun for long hours, and keeps the color on your skin even after you've washed off. Nordstrom rating: 3.7/5 stars A Nordstrom reviewer says: 'I used this product yesterday after purchasing it at Nordstrom. It glides on nicely and washes off your palms without leaving a stain. A wonderful product for instantly taking lily white legs and giving them a sunkissed glow! I only applied one coat, but if you want more color, then let the first coat dry and then apply the second. It showered off this morning and leaves behind a soft tan with no hint of orange. I highly recommend this product for someone who wants a quick kiss of gentle color, or to even out tan lines. Does contain a small amount of self tanner so will leave a beautiful glow!' Size: 5.4 fl oz Key ingredient: Provitamin B, vitamin E Aesop's iteration of a body sunscreen smells as heavenly and invigorating as its other offerings. Not only does it smell great, but it also has a host of other benefits. 'Formulated with spearmint leaf, panthenol (provitamin B5), and tocopherol (vitamin E), this moisturizing body lotion offers SPF 50 protection from UV rays. Nordstrom rating: 4.8/5 stars A Nordstrom reviewer said: 'This is the second time I purchase this and I love it. Super lightweight and I love the scent.' Size: 6 fl oz Key ingredients: cupuaçu butter, grapeseed oil, non-nano zinc oxide How can a sunscreen be a 'total package,' you ask? Well, Versed has the answer: loads of nourishment (cupuaçu butter and grapeseed oil) and sun protection. Rich antioxidants and butters enrich the skin with hydration and moisture that makes you forget what you're wearing is actually SPF. 'As a mineral sunscreen, this product contains zinc to provide SPF 30 protection, as well as moisturizing cupuaçu butter and soothing antioxidants from grapeseed oil,' says Dr. Brendan Camp. Target rating: 4.3/5 stars A Target reviewer said: 'I love this sunscreen! It is formulated with non-nano zinc oxide which has shown to be the least harmful to marine life as far as sunscreen ingredients go. So many sunscreens claim to be "reef safe" but all they really mean is "oxybenzone free" which is great and all, but misleading. Especially since almost all common sunscreen ingredients are not reef-safe (including most zinc if it is in nano form). All of the people leaving negative reviews dislike the feel and the white cast of this sunscreen, but it is AMAZING as far as nan-nano zinc sunscreens go. The white cast goes away if you give it time to soak in a little (I am white, so this is most likely a bigger problem for darker skin folks), and it is not as greasy or gross as many over-the-counter chemical or physical sunscreens go. Give this a try if you're concerned for how sunscreen ingredients affect marine life!' Key ingredients: Glycolic acid Sun protection is required to get the best results from exfoliation. 'This SPF body lotion provides SPF 15 protection and includes glycolic acid to gently exfoliate rough skin, shea butter to moisturize, and vitamin E for antioxidant protection,' Dr. Camp adds. Glytone's Daily Body Lotion contains 6.2 percent glycolic acid, to be exact, used to treat hyperpigmentation and keratosis pilaris. Dermstore rating: 4.8/5 stars A Dermstore reviewer said: 'I can't live without my Glytone Daily Body Lotion Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 15. I use it every morning. It's extra moisturizing while exfoliating dead skin throughout the day and gives my skin an SPF 15 from the sun's harmful rays. Love-Love my Glytone and would recommend to anyone!' Size: 3.4 oz Key ingredients: Sea moss, cocoa seed butter If you want to glow like a supermodel, Cay Skin's Isle Glow Body Lotion will have you ready for your close-up in a few swipes. Formulated with SPF 45, this lotion uses cocoa butter, and nectar to deliver moisture and radiance; sea moss is the MVP of the formula that protects the skin's barrier. Sephora rating: 4.3/5 stars A Sephora reviewer said: 'This is a beautiful lotion with sunscreen. My skin feels nice and soft and looks healthy and glowy, but not shimmery. It's easily reapplied and doesn't feel heavy on my skin. I've repurchased this multiple times and will continue to do so. I've been really impressed with the Cay Skin products I've tried so far.' Size: 3 fl oz Key ingredients: Niacinamide, ceramides A lightweight, easy-to-use, hydrating sunscreen is waiting for you right in the aisle of your favorite drugstore. Ceramides and niacinamide strengthen the skin's barrier and restore moisture. Amazon rating: 4.5/5 stars An Amazon reviewer said: 'Fragrance free sunscreens are hard to find at my local store. This is a great one!. It goes on smoothly and does not feel greasy. SPF 30 protects me when I'm out in the south Texas sun.' Just as the sun can damage your face, it can also wreak havoc on your skin without you even knowing. 'Sunscreen on the body protects all of your skin from UV radiation. Because you can get skin cancer anywhere you have skin, it is important to protect it from the sun using sunscreen, sun-protective clothing, and sun avoidance, as well as to get regular skin checks with a board-certified dermatologist,' Dr. Camp explains. 'The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using one ounce of sunscreen to cover the body, which is about the amount in a shot glass.' Dr. Brendan Camp is a double board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology. As a leading publisher of fashion, lifestyle, and beauty content, is committed to highlighting the best products in various categories by personally testing the latest and most innovative products, interviewing countless experts, and vetting customer-loved items. For this piece, beauty commerce editor. Nerisha Penrose spoke to a dermatologist to find the best body lotions with SPF on the market.
NBC News
18-04-2025
- Health
- NBC News
How reef-safe sunscreens can help your skin and the environment, according to derms
Wearing sunscreen regularly is a must, no matter your age or skin tone. It not only helps protect against skin cancer, but can also help prevent premature wrinkles and age spots, according to The American Academy of Dermatology. There are a lot of factors to consider when shopping for the right SPF. For example, you may require sunscreen for sensitive skin or need a kid-friendly SPF formula. Another consideration you may want to think about: picking an environmentally-friendly product, especially if you'll be spending lots of time near the ocean. Certain chemicals in your SPF could rinse off in water and impact ocean ecosystems, according to experts. Specifically, research suggests that chemicals such as oxybenzone and octinoxate have a negative impact on coral reefs. (An estimated 25% of all marine life depends on coral reefs for survival, according to the Environmental Protection Agency.) It's so harmful that places like Hawaii and Key West, Florida, no longer allow the sale of sunscreen containing oxybenzone and octinoxate. That's where reef-safe sunscreen comes in. 'These sunscreens tend to be mineral-based, utilizing ingredients like titanium dioxide and zinc oxide to provide physical, rather than chemical, sun protection,' says Dr. Divya Shokeen, a board-certified dermatologist at the Ocean Skin and Vein Institute in California. To help you shop for reef-safe formulas, we spoke to dermatologists and environmental experts about what to look for in an SPF that will protect both you and the environment. Then, we rounded up expert picks, along with highly rated options that met their standards. How I picked the best reef-safe sunscreen I spoke to two dermatologists and an environmental expert about what to look for in a sunscreen that will protect your skin from harmful rays, while not damaging coral reefs or other ocean ecosystems. Experts recommend keeping the following factors in mind when shopping: Reef-safe ingredients: There are two types of sunscreens: chemical and mineral. Chemical sunscreens use ingredients to filter out UV rays, whereas mineral (also known as physical) formulas sit on top of your skin and reflect rays away. The former contain oxybenzone and octinoxate, two ingredients research suggests can harm the ocean ecosystem by bleaching coral reefs and damaging their DNA. For this list, we selected mineral formulas, none of which contain oxybenzone or octinoxate. Instead, they incorporate physical blockers like titanium dioxide and zinc oxide. 'When shopping for reef-safe, mineral sunscreens, look for something containing zinc or titanium as the active ingredients,' says Dr. Brendan Camp, a board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology in New York City. Level of protection: You want to protect the ocean, but you also need to protect your skin. To do so, look for broad-spectrum products with an SPF rating of at least 30. (Broad-spectrum protection means your skin will be safe from both UVA and UVB rays). Water-resistance: Denoted by time (typically 40 or 80 minutes), this refers to how long your sunscreen will stay on wet skin. Water-resistant sunscreens serve a couple of purposes, according to our experts. Firstly, the better your sunscreen stays on your skin, the more protected you are. And second, your SPF will be less likely to wash off and harm the ocean. To help you find the best reef safe sunscreen, we considered recommendations from dermatologists, along with highly rated options from brands like Cerave, Blue Lizard and more. None of our recommendations contain oxybenzone or octinoxate. This water-resistant formula is a favorite of Camp's because it is environmentally friendly, offers broad-spectrum protection and has skin-boosting benefits. This zinc oxide-based formula absorbs quickly and doesn't feel sticky or oily. 'In addition to SPF 50 protection, it includes antioxidants like vitamin E and moisturizing ingredients like jojoba oil,' he says. 'Whereas some sunscreens feel sticky going on, this one feels smooth thanks to these ingredients, which also help nourish your skin as you wear it.' With zinc oxide as the primary active ingredient, Camp says this is a great option for protecting your body and keeping reefs safe. It offers SPF 50 and is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes. While some mineral sunscreens leave a white residue on skin, this one blends in very nicely so you don't look like you're wearing a ton of sunscreen even when you are, according to Camp. You can also feel good about the packaging — it's made of recycled plastic, according to the brand. This expert-recommended mineral sunscreen is a great option for those with sensitive skin around the entire body (not just the face). It offers broad-spectrum SPF 50+ coverage and has zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to protect skin from UV rays. Plus, the fragrance-free formula is sweat- and water-resistant too. An added bonus? As this sits in the sun, the bottle turns white to blue to remind you when to reapply your sunscreen. Consider a lotion with a tint if you are looking for a face-specific formula. 'Tinted sunscreens are often formulated with pigment that blends in well without leaving noticeable residue,' says Camp. This one uses both titanium dioxide and zinc oxide to create a protective barrier from the sun. I use this daily on my face and love that it dries with a slightly matte finish and evens out my skin tone. The water-resistant formula also has vitamins C and E to help soothe and moisturize skin, according to the brand. This SPF 30, great for sensitive skin, has a sheer tint, offsetting any white cast on the skin, says NBC Select associate updates editor Zoe Malin, who uses it daily. The noncomedogenic sunscreen also contains hyaluronic acid to boost moisture and ceramides to support the skin's natural barrier. Plus, it's free of oil and fragrances, making it a good option for acne-prone and sensitive skin. I originally bought this broad-spectrum sunscreen with zinc oxide for my daughter, but quickly fell in love with it thanks to its lightweight, creamy texture. It happens to be a favorite of Camp's as well thanks to the sugarcane-derived squalane (a plant-based hydrating ingredient) that's in it, which helps moisturize skin as you wear it. It's also fragrance-free, helpful if you have sensitive skin or prefer products that aren't scented. Another face-specific option, this mineral sunscreen from Sun Bum uses zinc oxide to protect skin from UVA and UVB rays. The tinted formula blends seamlessly into skin and has a matte finish, according to the brand. The SPF 30 should be applied 15 minutes before going into the sun and it can be used on its own or as a primer under makeup, according to Sun Bum. This tinted sunscreen is an NBC Select staff favorite. Updates editor Mili Godio uses it daily. 'I wear it in lieu of foundation most days — it covers up any redness and spots I have, and it's easily blendable and buildable,' she says. 'It also leaves such a natural finish that my skin still looks like skin after applying it.' It also does not irritate Godio's sensitive, rosacea-prone skin. The tinted sunscreen comes in 17 shades, meaning that most skin tones can find a shade that will work for them. This sunscreen may look white when it comes out of the tube, but it quickly becomes sheer as you rub it into the skin. It is fragrance free and has a matte finish. It also can be used as a primer before you put on your makeup or put it all on its own. 'If I'm not wearing tinted sunscreen — like on the weekends, to the beach and while exercising outdoors — this sunscreen is my go-to,' says Malin. 'It feels so light and airy on my skin, and it absorbs in seconds, so I can quickly apply a little concealer on top as needed. It's also never bothered my acne-prone, sensitive skin.' This formula is intended for the body, but the brand offers a formula called Daily Dew for your face. Best whipped formula: Vacation Classic Whip SPF 30 Vacation's Classic Whip reef-safe sunscreen, one of our favorite status SPF products, looks a lot like shaving cream, and it goes on just as smooth, according to the brand. It's water-resistant for up to 80 minutes and has coconut oil, vitamin E and aloe vera to hydrate and soothe the skin as you wear it. The sunscreen is also highly rated, with a 4.5-star average rating from over 600 reviews at Ulta. How to shop for reef-safe sunscreen When shopping for environmentally friendly sunscreens that will also keep you protected from the sun, our experts recommend keeping the below factors in mind: Prioritize reef-safe ingredients. Like titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, which create a physical block on your skin that makes rays bounce off it without penetrating through. Though it's important to note that there is no actual, legal definition for 'reef safe', according to Emily Spilman, a healthy living science program manager at the Environmental Working Group. The term's unregulated and generally, companies have their own definitions, she says. 'While there are still a lot of data gaps about how certain sunscreens impact coral reefs, the main concern is that specific ingredients can cause coral bleaching, which can leave reefs under distress and vulnerable.' Reef-safe sunscreens are also usually made up of micro-sized or non-nano particles. This is because nanoparticles can be ingested by coral and negatively impact its health, according to the National Park Service. Most reef-safe products will identify what type of particles their formula is made up of. Avoid oxybenzone, octinoxate and parabens. Oxybenzone and octinoxate are chemical ingredients that protect skin from the sun by filtering harmful rays out — and while they are effective at doing that, they can cause other issues. 'They have been shown to be toxic to aquatic life, including coral,' Spilman says. Parabens are preservatives that keep beauty products shelf stable for longer. However, they can bleach reefs and even damage the DNA in coral, according to the National Ocean Service. Opt for broad spectrum sunscreens. This will protect you against both UVA and UVB rays. Exposure to UVA rays is associated with skin aging. In contrast, exposure to UVB is connected to skin burning — so preventing both from impacting your complexion is crucial, according to our experts. 'You should also be looking for a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher,' says Shokeen. Just know that anything higher than SPF 50 only offers marginal improvements when protecting your skin. Look for water-resistance. Not only does this help keep your skin safe while you engage in water play, it may be safer for the environment. This is because water-resistant sunscreen isn't as likely to wash off in the ocean and negatively impact aquatic life. How to apply sunscreen correctly Once you've picked your reef-safe sunscreen, make sure you apply it correctly to ensure you get maximum protection. Your goal should be to use it liberally and frequently, according to Shokeen. The general rule of thumb is to use a quarter-sized dollop on your face and a shot glass-size amount for your body. You want to apply sunscreen 15 minutes before going out in the sun and reapply those amounts every two hours, or after swimming or sweating. Meet our experts At NBC Select, we work with experts who have specialized knowledge and authority based on relevant training and/or experience. We also take steps to ensure all expert advice and recommendations are made independently and without undisclosed financial conflicts of interest. Why trust NBC Select? I'm a contributor at NBC Select and a journalist who regularly covers topics like beauty, home and lifestyle. For this story, I interviewed three experts to gather their guidance and researched highly rated reef-safe sunscreens based on their advice.
CNN
15-04-2025
- Health
- CNN
This lip plumping dermaroller kit is going viral, but does it work? I tested it to find out
Since plump, full lips have become the aspirational — and achievable — look, thanks to injectables, more beauty brands are paying attention and offering topical options that help you get the look at home sans the needles. That's what Klavaia's Oh So Pouty kit promises. The two-step product features a microneedling dermaroller tool that's safe to use at home, paired with a hyaluronic acid serum that's supposed to penetrate your lips and boost lip volume over time. It's been all over our team's social media feeds, so I decided to try it out myself and consult some skin care experts about this type of treatment. Klavaia Oh So Pouty Kit This lip-plumping kit includes a small dermaroller and a hyaluronic acid serum to treat the lips. When used together regularly, they're supposed to enhance the appearance of your lips over time, making them fuller, smoother and more filler and Botox 'lip flips' have become popular options for those looking to boost the volume of their lips, but not everyone wants to be injected to get results. That's where lip-plumping products like the Oh So Pouty Kit come in. Inspired by in-office procedures, a lip dermaroller offers a middle ground for people who don't want to commit to filler and aren't afraid to DIY their beauty treatments. Whereas lip filler can cost hundreds, even thousands, of dollars and requires a trip to the med spa or dermatologist, the Oh So Pouty kit is $100 or less when on sale and you can do it at home. The payoff, however, boils down to results. With lip fillers, you can experience some minor bruising or swelling after being injected, but after those subside, your plump pout should last six to 12 months. With the Oh So Pouty Kit, you have to use the product consistently to see any results, and even then, they're not guaranteed. It has racked up seemingly successful testimonials, though, and there's enough online hype around Klavaia's dermaroller lip kit that I had to try it for myself. As a disclaimer, I'll admit I'm blessed with naturally full lips. However, my upper lip has a lot less volume than my bottom one, so I was interested in seeing if doing the treatment primarily on my upper lip would enhance it and create more balance. After testing the Oh So Pouty Kit for two weeks, I did not notice any long-term changes in the look or feel of my upper lip, but I don't think the product is a total waste. The concept behind the treatment is that the dermaroller and serum will help trigger collagen production over time and, therefore, result in softer, plumper lips. While I think these results would be limited compared to what you would get with injectables, there is an immediate, albeit temporary, effect. 'Dermarollers increase blood flow to a treatment area, such as the lips, and in doing so, cause the area to swell,' double board-certified dermatologist Dr. Brendan Camp said. 'Small injuries created in lip skin trigger a temporary plumping effect.' That's why immediately after using the dermaroller on my lips, they looked more flushed and just a tiny bit larger. The dermaroller felt a bit prickly but never painful; the 0.5-millimeter roller simply caused some surface irritation and blood flow to the lips. It also makes sense to pair the dermaroller with a hyaluronic acid and peptide serum. According to Samantha Susca, head esthetician at Casa Cipriani, 'It is always better to use a serum first that is hydrating and soothing for two reasons: to allow the roller to glide, and as it creates micro channels in the skin, the serum will be able to penetrate and hydrate the skin a little bit deeper than usual, giving it a more plump look.' There were notable pros and cons to this particular lip-plumping kit. I liked the small dermaroller head that was the perfect size for the lips and how you could fill the dermaroller with the hyaluronic acid serum so it dispensed the serum onto the head. It allowed me to apply the serum and use the dermaroller in one step, which was convenient. However, the instructions say that you should sanitize the roller before every use and that the head should be replaced after every eight to 10 uses. There aren't any sanitization supplies included, nor specific directions on how to sanitize it, so I ended up using alcohol wipes I had at home. Within the two weeks of my testing, I used the dermaroller nine times. The instructions recommend starting out just once or twice a week to see how your lips tolerate the dermaroller and serum. Since I didn't experience any negative side effects, the second week I went all in and used it every day since I only noticed immediate results. But that now leaves me at the recommended point to replace the head with the brand's refills, so that seems like a pretty frequent recurring cost. Ultimately, I think you can get similar results with more affordable products. The act of using a dermaroller for lip plumping reminded me of Anne Hathaway's hack of using a hair pin to stimulate blood flow to her lips. It's a similar manual irritation to the area, and if you're wary about microneedling or the sanitary aspect of dermarolling at home, you could easily opt for Hathaway's trick instead. There are also plenty of lip glosses and products that provide a temporary plumping effect that I think are more noticeable than the subtle results I got with the Oh So Pouty Kit. Below, I've compiled some of my favorite lip-plumping products that actually enhance my pout. Maybelline Lifter Plump Lip Gloss With Chili Pepper This chili-infused lip gloss creates some heat on the lips, triggering blood flow and giving me a temporary boost in volume. It's the quickest fix for lip plumping on the go I've found thus far. If you're a fan of spicy food, like I am, you'll love the feeling and the glossy, plump results. Read our review Ourself Lip Filler This at-home lip filler requires consistency, and I think it's a product that works best for aging skin that will most noticeably see a boost in hydration and smoothness. The topical lip filler is made with different sizes of hyaluronic acid that absorb with Tiered-Release Vesicle technology so that it targets the areas that need it most. The formula also includes vitamin B3 (niacin) derivatives and peppermint, creating a strong tingling sensation. Kitsch Micro Dermaroller For a budget-friendly comparison to the Oh So Pouty Kit, you can buy a dermaroller separately from a hyaluronic acid serum. This one is a bit larger than Klavaia's dermaroller, as it's made to cover larger surface areas of the face or scalp, but you still get 0.25-millimeter stainless steel microneedles that you can use gently on the lips. The Ordinary Multi-Peptide + HA Serum This is a great anti-aging product to have on hand, and it provides the key ingredients for lip plumping too: peptides and hyaluronic acid. Smooth a drop or two over your lips before following with a dermaroller for your own lip-plumping our review The Inkey List Tripeptide Plumping Lip Balm This peptide-infused lip balm aims to boost lip volume over time. While I haven't personally seen that effect, it is a great lip treatment that keeps my lips moisturized and soft. After all, dry, dehydrated lips will naturally look less full than happy, hydrated ones. Dior Addict Lip Maximizer Plumping Gloss This viral lip gloss comes in nearly two dozen shimmery and high-shine shades. It has a cool, tingling sensation and a formula with hydrating hyaluronic acid and jojoba esters. I like the shade 002 Opal, a clear holographic gloss that enhances my natural lip color and provides a shiny, plump look. Dibs Jam Jam Lip This balm-like lipstick provides buildable pigment and a smooth, glossy finish. It moisturizes with hyaluronic acid, peptides and castor oil, and provides a subtle plumping tingle you can feel on the lips. The Oh So Pouty Kit provides an easy DIY option for those who don't want to commit to injectables, but your results will be limited. For those looking for a quick fix, I recommend going for a topical product like a lip-plumping gloss. If you are after long-term results and improved volume, the experts I consulted said you may have success with a dermaroller and hyaluronic acid serum like the Oh So Pouty Kit, but consistency is key and it will only work as long as you are doing the treatment. The following FAQs have been answered by double board-certified dermatologist Dr. Brendan Camp and celebrity esthetician Samantha Susca. What are the pros and cons of lip plumper? What are the pros and cons of lip plumper? For a dermaroller lip plumper, 'the advantages of such a kit are affordability, convenience and ease of use,' Camp said. Susca added that it will also provide longer-lasting results than a plumping lip gloss. 'Plumping lip glosses usually use peppermint or cinnamon oil to cause a vasodilation on the surface of the lips that result in a plump, but it only lasts from a few seconds to a few minutes at most,' she said. 'Using something like a dermaroller to force-feed hyaluronic acid into the skin will last a little longer because you are allowing hydrating and plumping ingredients to reach a deeper level of the skin than the surface.' Camp said the cons of using an at-home lip plumper include needing to use it continuously to maintain results and results that are not as robust or long-lasting as lip filler. He and Susca also raised concerns over the risk of irritation or infection if at-home users do not properly sanitize the dermaroller. Is it good to use lip plumper every day? Is it good to use lip plumper every day? 'Read the recommended guidelines for each product,' Camp said. Hydrating serums and lip plumping glosses are generally safe to use daily, but 'excessive use of a dermaroller could irritate skin, compromise the barrier and predispose skin to infection,' according to the dermatologist. Do your lips go back to normal after using lip plumper? Do your lips go back to normal after using lip plumper? Whether using a product like the Oh So Pouty Kit or a plumping lip gloss, Camp and Susca said that the plumping effects are temporary. For this article, we consulted the following skin experts to gain their professional insights on lip-plumping products. Dr. Brendan Camp, double board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology in New York Samantha Susca, head esthetician at Casa Cipriani in New York City CNN Underscored has a team of skilled writers and editors who have many years of experience testing, researching and recommending products, and they ensure each article is carefully edited and products are properly vetted. We talk to top experts when applicable to make certain we are testing each product accurately, recommending only the best products and considering the pros and cons of each item. For this story, beauty and fashion editor Sophie Shaw tested the viral Klavaia microneedling kit for lip plumping and consulted a dermatologist and an esthetician about lip-plumping treatments.
NBC News
14-03-2025
- Health
- NBC News
Not all bubble baths are safe — these are the ones you can actually trust
Bathtime is a childhood habit that's followed me into adulthood. But as an older sister and cousin, I know there's a significant difference between the products I use and what they can safely use. Most bubble bath soaps for kids have multiple labels indicating 'kid-safe,' 'tear-free' and more, but what do those terms really mean, and why are they important? 'Children have thinner skin than adults, and their skin may react more to allergens, sun exposure and irritation,' says board-certified dermatologist Dr. Brendan Camp. 'Kid-friendly is a marketing term that brands use to signal that the product is formulated to be more gentle.' To help you find the best bubble bath soaps for the child in your life, I spoke to dermatologists and pediatricians about what to look for in a soap and how to protect your child's skin while they have fun. I also compiled a list of their recommendations to shop. How I picked the best kid-safe bubble bath soaps Unlike body washes, which focus on cleansing the skin, bubble bath soaps are made to create non-drying, gentle bubbles during bathtime. When shopping for these soaps, the experts I spoke to recommend considering the following: Gentle formulas: When you see labels indicating a bubble bath soap is hypoallergenic and tear-free, it means that it is free of common irritants that would irritate your child's eyes, skin and scalp, experts say. You'll want to find soaps free of harsh chemicals and surfactants (cleansing agents). More on this below. Fragrance/fragrance-free: Many of my experts recommend fragrance-free options to avoid irritating your child's skin, especially if they have sensitive, eczema-prone skin. However, some skin types can handle gentle fragrances, and some individuals prefer mild scents. My list includes both fragrance-free and fragranced options. Want more from NBC Select? Sign up for our newsletter, The Selection, and shop smarter. The best kid-safe bubble bath soaps Below, I compiled bubble bath soaps experts say are safe for kids. Every option on this list is tear-free and made with gentle ingredients. 'I really like CeraVe Baby Wash and Shampoo as it is both tear-free and fragrance-free and is extremely gentle,' says Dr. Jocelyn Gandelman, a board-certified dermatologist who uses this for her toddler with very sensitive skin. You can add this to your bath to make it bubble, and it's great to use for children of all ages. It is also safe for adults with sensitive skin, she says. 'Babyganics makes a hypoallergenic, clean formulation that produces a good number of bubbles,' says board-certified dermatologist Dr. Donna Hart. Many reviewers with children who have sensitive skin say this is an excellent option because the bubbles are abundant, but they don't sting or cause any discomfort or irritation on their child's reactive skin. To get lots of bubbles, you may need to use a few extra pumps of soap depending on your child's preference and your bathtub size, reviewers say. Although they don't take bubble baths frequently, my younger brothers (ages 8 and 11) love using this Aveeno bubble bath soap because it creates big, fluffy bubbles. It has a light fragrance; however, after they rinse off, my brothers don't experience any irritation or dryness, which is crucial because they have sensitive, eczema-prone skin. This bubble bath soap is suitable for the entire family, including babies, children and adults. Reviewers especially love the subtle lavender fragrance because it helps them wind down before bedtime and helps transition them to the final step of the night. This tear-free soap has a 4.7-star average rating from over 34,100 reviews on Amazon. For children who want the occasional bath, Gandelman recommends this option because it creates large traditional bubbles while also being tear- and fragrance-free. The soap, suitable for sensitive skin, includes soothing ingredients like aloe and is free of common irritants like dyes and parabens, according to the brand. Editor's pick: Tubby Toad Bubble Bath My aunts and I love using Tubby Todd's Bubble Bath on my younger cousins (who are babies, toddlers and elementary-aged) because it's gentle, hydrating and doesn't leave any residue on their skin. We also love that a little goes a long way because you only need roughly two pumps to create enough bubbles that last the entire bathtime. For my cousins with sensitive skin, we love using the fragrance-free version, and for those who are older and have less delicate skin, we use the Sweet Quince + Honeysuckle option. The scent isn't overwhelming and doesn't irritate their skin. Mustela's bubble bath soaps have avocado to help moisturize your child's skin, says Hart. It also has additional ingredients (91% of it is plant-based) that help maintain the skin's water balance and hydrate it, according to the brand. This option targets most of the senses (sight, smell and touch) because it has a fragrance, creates frothy bubbles and has a blue color. Reviewers say that although it has a blue tint, it doesn't irritate their child's skin or stain their bathtubs. Another option Gandelman loves to use for her toddler is this body wash, which is available in liquid and bar soap form. 'I prefer [body washes] to traditional bubble bath makers as they do not have as much surfactants or fragrance,' she says. Since this isn't a traditional bubble bath soap, Gandelman takes a whisk (like one you would use for cooking) to mix up the body wash in the tub to create the bubbles — a tip she learned on Reddit that actually works. This bubble bath soap, best for ages 2 to 12, doubles as a shampoo and body wash. Reviewers say it's gentle for their kid's skin and hair, and they love that it's a solution for every aspect of bath time. They also say the scented options smell fresher compared to most artificial-smelling soaps. It has a 4.7-star average rating from over 90 reviews on Dabble & Dollop. This kid-safe bubble bath soap, which has a 4.7-star average rating from over 8,500 reviews on Amazon, is suitable for all skin types and creates bubbles that moisturize and nourish the skin, according to the brand. Not only do reviewers love that the bubbles are gentle on their babies' and kids' skin, but they also love how many bubbles it produces, with some only needing one cap/pump of soap per bath. Key ingredients: coconut oil, shea butter | Fragrance options: coconut chamomile, coconut strawberry, eucalyptus mint, lemon lavender | Size: 32 fl oz. How to shop for kid-safe bubble bath soaps Tear-free Although tear-free is a marketing term with no clear-cut definition, there is testing that products undergo to determine whether or not they will prevent your child's eyes from burning, according to experts in our guide to the best shampoos for kids. All of my experts recommend choosing tear-free formulas for kid-friendly bubble bath soaps, especially if you have younger kids, says Hart. Tear-free also indicates that it's free of harsh surfactants (the cleansing agents responsible for creating bubbles), including sulfates. Instead, they rely on alternatives (like plant-based surfactants such as sodium lauroyl methyl isethionate) to fill baths with the same amount of bubbles. pH balanced The skin has a slightly acidic pH, and since soaps tend to be more alkaline products, they have the potential to shift that pH level. That's why it's essential to look for bubble bath soaps that are balanced to maintain the skin at its regular level. By doing so, you avoid disrupting the balance of microorganisms on the skin and skin barrier, according to Camp. Hypoallergenic If you see this label, it means that the bubble bath soap is made without ingredients known to potentially cause skin irritation, says Camp. Some common irritants include fragrances, dyes, surfactants, detergents and preservatives, he says. Why trust NBC Select? I'm an associate reporter who covers new product launches, skin care, hair care and more, including recent stories on the best body lotions for mature skin and the best shampoos for dry hair. For this story, I interviewed three board-certified dermatologists to find out about bubble bath soaps for kids and how to bathe them to protect and maintain their skin properly. I also compiled a list of their recommendations, NBC Select-staff favorites and highly rated options that align with expert guidance.
