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Buzz Feed
21-05-2025
- Lifestyle
- Buzz Feed
If You Love Living In The Lap Of Luxury But Your Bank Account Isn't There Yet, Check Out These 40 Worthy Swaps
A CZ tennis bracelet with tons of reviewers who say it can pass as actual diamonds. Listen, you want a glamorous stack but you don't have to choose between that and a long weekend at a beach resort. E.l.f. Lash XTNDR Tubing Mascara if you've tried pricier versions but have shied away from rebuying because of $$$. Seriously, just try this! It's so good that I'm currently on my THIRD tube. Good Molecules Pineapple Exfoliating Powder made with natural rice starches and pineapple, kiwi, and papaya extracts that'll foam up and *gently* polish skin, giving you similar results to the $68 Dermalogica version. You can use it up to four times a week to see (and feel) the benefits without harsh scrubs or panicking a little bit at your Ulta total. A beaded shoulder bag in case you've added a similar Staud one to cart about a million times but haven't been able to checkout just yet. The brand's beaded bags became instant classics but you can get a little splurgey at Anthro without having to completely upend your monthly budget on a (gorgeous) $295 bag. You could get three of these at that price (if you wanted). A set of wrist and ankle weights will feel like an extra fun accessory after you look up how the pricing ($22-ish) compares to similar Bala Bangles ($50-ish). Slip on these before you take a stroll with a pal to get in your steps. Just be prepared for the onslaught of compliments by passersby. Nortiv 8 walking shoes with the pillowy comfort and bold color combos of Hokas on the cheap, so you can splurge a little bit on that boutique boxing class this week instead of shelling out more for the name-brand shoes. Sliick Ingrown Rescue Solution to halt painful (and unsightly) ingrown hairs before you realize they've rudely shown up on your first beach day of the year, no matter how you're DIY-ing hair removal. AND it's half the price of holy grail Tend Skin! Oxo's portable Cold Brew Rapid Brewer if you guzzle coffee like it's your main salaried job where you have a corner office in the C-suite. It whips up cold brew in a mere five minutes, which is even better news if you've gotten sticker shock from Aeropress but need something that'll work both at home and on the go. (For the record, some reviewers call it "Aeropress 2.0" because they prefer the Oxo version.) Self-Tanner for some super-easy-to-apply color that'll develop in an hour. No need to book a (costly) spray tan appointment. (Psst, reviewers who've previously sworn by St. Tropez products have made the switch!) A cherry bag charm can add a lil' razzle-dazzle to your plain bag that's just not doing it for you anymore. Just let your work nemesis assume that it's the $95 Coach charm. A cute two-piece pajama set in super soft fabric if you LOVE the look of $128 Roller Rabbit PJs but just can't personally justify spending that much money on something you wear to bed, no matter how comfy and cute it might be! An Elizavecca hair treatment to give you "rich girl hair" thanks to its collagen and ceramide 3 formula. And it'll take just a few minutes of your time, like as little as five minutes post-shampoo. Because time is money, money is power, and power is pizza. (In case you were curious, lots of reviewers say they prefer it over $$$ Olaplex.) A long-sleeve bodysuit will wrap you up in an incredibly soft fabric that reviews oft compare to Skims. AND it's supportive enough so you can wear it without a bra, which is always a great thing! Plus, a stretchy bodycon pencil dress with heaps of Skims comparisons for the shape and stretch. I'm guessing this is what Morticia Addams would wear to an all-inclusive beach resort. L'Oreal True Match Lumi Glotion for a super glowy, sunkissed look EVEN if work and maintaining a social life has you feeling like a vampire. No need to keep swinging by Sephora for a free sample of Drunk Elephant's bronzing drops because reviewers say this is a great cheaper alt. (We've all pulled that sample trick!) A baroque-inspired mirror to instantly dress up an entry or hallway. The gilded frame looks equally great hung on a wall or atop a console. And every time you gaze upon your reflection in it, you can think about the dough you saved by opting for this one over the more expensive Anthro version. An elegant set of square wineglasses that reviewers point out are VERY similar to the pricier ones sold at Crate & Barrel. Whether you're just drinking some water out of them or some actual Prosecco, they'll certainly elevate the moment. E.l.f. Halo Glow Liquid Filter that'll free up a bit of coin if you've been eyeing Charlotte Tilbury's Hollywood Flawless Filter as a glow-getter on a budget. This stuff has hyaluronic acid and squalane to give you that lit-from-within for less than the cost of a pricey chopped salad from that place beside your office. A faux-leather bag you'll do a double-take on because it's verrrry similar to Polène's Cyme you've been stalking online and thought, "Welp, I could buy this instead of flying to my college roommate's wedding" before buying that flight. Hanes Ultimate ankle socks that'll pass the comfort test for fans of Aritzia's TNA line. Yes, we're at that age where socks can be luxurious. Slingback heels to add an air of sophistication to a simple outfit. We're not on a Chanel budget, but that's perfectly fine and normal! These beauts will help you chase that feeling AND turn out to be super versatile so you'll have a pretty low cost per wear. And while we're chasing that feeling, a quilted leather crossbody purse can scratch a Chanel-ish itch while adding an affordable purse into your wardrobe rotation. A glitzy long-sleeve sequin dress in case you marveled at the $765 16Arlington dress Hailey Bieber wore but gasped out loud when you looked at the price. This under-$100 version is just begging to make an appearance in a loud, dark club somewhere in Europe. A faux-pearl choker that's a dead-ringer for a Vivienne Westwood piece you can easily add to all kinds of outfits that are missing something. Mystery solved. Some sharp-looking pointed-toe flats with similar comfy, machine-washable features to pricier Rothy's or Vivaia flats. You'll be glad you packed these to get you from Notre-Dame to the Eiffel Towel on a long but gorgeous scenic view! And when you get home, you can toss 'em in the wash to look like new for your next adventure! A pair of retro-style oval sunglasses your nemesis will mistake for the $400+ Miu Miu ones, which is fine. Let 'em think that and put that extra cash toward whatever else you want. Or some oversized square sunnies if you've been admiring the Bottega Veneta version but have such a horrible track record with keeping sunglasses in fighting shape that you can't in good conscience spend hundreds on a pair. A pair of satin block-heeled dress shoes you'd mistake for some Loeffler Randall heels if you didn't buy them yourself! Reviewers also say that the supportive straps mean you can still make all kinds of moves. A wedding dance floor hates to see you coming. A velvet V-neck maxi dress that'd make a perfect bridesmaid dress. Or just a wedding guest dress! You're already paying [redacted] to attend the Nashville bachelorette. We don't need to spend $400 on a dress too. Slip-on mules because you're not allowed to wear sneakers to the office (I'm emailing HR on your behalf) but don't do heels. You'll get all kinds of use out of these comfy alts to the pricier Madewell Gemma mules without having to MAKE yourself wear them enough times just to make yourself feel better about dropping serious dough on them. Platform slippers you've eyed on so many other people in public (or, well, the similar but more expensive Ugg Tazz) and want in on the cozy style. Once you slip your feet into the faux-fur shoes, you'll find every which way to wear — even in the sweaty pits of summer. A multipurpose blush stick you can try out to create the lovely watercolor blush trend. Y'know what's even lovelier? Paying $7 for this instead of the $18 Pixi Beauty version so you can build and blend color to your heart's content. Cushionaire slides to help satisfy your old dogs' yearning for comfy Birks (there are 1k+ reviews comparing them) for significantly less. A "Soft" perfume rollerball that's definitely made an appearance or five in your FYP scroll. It's only $5 and smells totally delightful (it gets compared to sweet treats like waffle cones). BUT! That's not the only reason to love it. It reminds reviewers of the $65 bottle of Pink Sugar 👀 and layers like a dream. E.l.f.'s Holy Hydration! Thirst Burst Drops made to help plump up (hydrating hibiscus complex and hyaluronic acid) and brighten (niacinamide) your complexion for similar results to the $35 Glow Recipe Watermelon Dew Drops. Reviewers say it works great alone *or* mixed in with foundation. A plated ring with just a bit of glitz that'll help you channel the Cartier look without affecting your financial planning goals like the real-deal would. Dossier's "Ambery Vanilla" perfume because you thought about shelling out for YSL's Black Opium but your budget said no despite all your other perfume bottles being on empty. A Briotech spray can help soothe rosacea, eczema, rashes, sunburns, and other skin irritations for when your skin is just not cooperating thanks to hypochlorous acid (it's in your white blood cells and helps soothe inflammation). Tower 28 SOS Daily Rescue Spray is also what some call a miracle in a bottle. But Briotech is in a cheaper bottle. Some mid-weight sweatpants in case you wanna bring some luxe feel to your couch-rotting. Folks on TikTok compare these to Aritzia's for a fraction of the price. Everyone wear sweats but they don't have to be expensive sweats. A half-zip pullover sweatshirt that'll run you far less than Lulu's $118 scuba hoodies.
Times
09-05-2025
- Health
- Times
Exosomes: the best skin and beauty secret to know
Many of us haven't heard of exosomes, although they have been used for a few years by clinics and doctors in skin treatments. But now that skincare brands have started to use them in their products, those of us dedicated to trying to improve our complexions will be finding out all about them. Naturally occurring in our bodies, exosomes are microscopic vesicles — structures containing liquids, almost like tiny water balloons — that transport proteins and lipids between cells. What makes them particularly useful is that they also communicate with cells. Which means, according to Dr Jonathan Dunne, a consultant plastic surgeon and the founder of the aesthetic clinic Montrose London which uses plant-based exosomes, that 'they can stimulate production of substances such as collagen and elastin, which are critical for healthy and youthful skin'. Both of those deplete as we age. But when exosomes locate cells that are flagging, they boost them back into action. Cell-regenerating products are nothing new — retinoids, for example, have long been lauded for their ability to help to boost the production of new skin cells. But exosomes, when applied topically, are even better, says Rebecca Cullen-Smith, the education director at the skincare brand Dermalogica. The company has recently launched its Exo Booster, containing exosomes made using bacteria. These, she says, are biocompatible with our skin, and as efficacious if not more so than bovine — or human — derived exosomes, the latter being popular in Asia but not legal for cosmetic use in the UK. • This article contains affiliate links that can earn us revenue The difference between what retinoids and exosomes do, Cullen-Smith says, is that 'retinoids can signal cells to switch biological processes on and off by bonding to specific receptor proteins that drive actions such as strengthening collagen production' whereas 'exosomes are much more complex structures. They not only signal to cells, but also provide critical biological components that are required for specific functions.' In other words, they can stimulate cells to perform actions such as produce collagen and increase elasticity. (According to a paper last year for the International Journal of Biological Sciences, they can also help to suppress inflammation, promote tissue repair and help tissue regeneration.) What difference will they make when looking in the mirror? Other than seeing the brightening and lifting effects from the facial or microneedling treatment during which exosomes would typically be applied like a serum, not a lot — they won't immediately change the appearance of skin like dermal fillers would. But they should improve things over time, as the skin's natural repairing processes are triggered and sped up, resulting in smoothed lines, improved texture and tone, and a plumper, fresher complexion. This, consultants say, usually happens within a month after the treatment. (One third-party clinical trial which compared microneedling alone and microneedling with exosomes showed that the latter produced an impressive 86 per cent greater reduction in wrinkle appearance after three weeks.) For long-lasting results, a course of three treatments is recommended. Katharine Mackenzie Paterson, a London facialist who has started offering bacterial and plant-based exosome treatments to clients, says they can also calm inflammation and restore damaged skin 'so they're perfect for anyone with sensitive or sensitised skin'. • In-clinic cosmetic treatments and at-home gadgets to get now After trying exosome treatments for a few weeks, with Dermalogica and KMP, both of our testers attested to good skin, day after day. 'Like you've consistently had your eight hours of sleep,' said one, with both commenting on how little foundation they're having to wear after their first session. And isn't that, after all, just what we want? Not an altered face — but a refreshed one. Exosome treatments cost from £330 at Dermalogica, £595 at Katharine Mackenzie Paterson for microneedling exosome treatment, £495 at Montrose London,
Forbes
08-05-2025
- Health
- Forbes
What Does Toner Do For Your Skin, And Do You Need It As Part Of Your Skincare Routine? 7 Experts Weigh In
Experts' opinions on toner vary, from it being necessary to it being irrelevant. Toner—one of the most misunderstood skincare products—is confusing even to those who call themselves skincare obsessives (present company included). What does a toner do? Should you use it morning and night? Do you even need a toner? This is as much service journalism as it is a question I was asking myself. Here's my final word, based off of the opinions of seven skincare experts I spoke to: it's an individual decision, one each of us must make for ourselves. Will you leave this roundup with a firm answer as to your personal relationship with toner? Maybe, and maybe not. But what you will leave with is information—and a good springboard to decide whether this product deserves a place in your routine or not. Here's what the experts had to say when I spoke to them in seven separate interviews. Sarah Chapman, celebrity esthetician and founder and product formulator of Skinesis, with a clinic of the same name in London Joanna Czech, celebrity esthetician and founder of Joanna Czech Skin Care and CzechList with studios in Dallas, New York City and Los Angeles Amy Groth, product marketing manager at Rael Heather Hickman, Dermalogica's vice president of education Caroline Hirons, celebrity facialist and skincare expert and founder of Skin Rocks Dr. Ranella Hirsch, board certified dermatologist and co-founder of the skincare line Atolla Megan Picurro, marketing director for Mario Badescu Skincare Toner is a staple of some skincare routines, and is skipped entirely in others. When formulating a skincare routine, you should start with your thinnest product and build up to thicker products. Toner should follow a cleanser and come before serums, moisturizers and SPF, and one of the key benefits of a toner is that it enhances the efficacy of the products that come behind it, Czech says. Using a balancing toner will 'speed up the penetration of a product,' she adds, telling me over Zoom that if I want my skincare products to work to their best capabilities and maximize results, I should use a toner. 'I wouldn't brush my teeth in the morning without toothpaste,' Czech says—so, in the same vein, she wouldn't use serums and moisturizers without using toner first. Groth says that using toner 'creates a blank canvas for the rest of my skincare routine,' and Hickman agrees. 'An analogy I like to use is a kitchen sponge,' she tells me. 'If you put dish soap on a dry sponge, it will just sit on the top and not penetrate the sponge. If the sponge is damp, the dish soap will be absorbed into the sponge. This is what happens with your skin. Applying active serums to dry skin will have less impact than applying them to a hydrated skin.' Toner can be applied via a cotton pad, although there are other delivery methods, as well. Toner is a necessary step after washing your face, Czech says, because we want to keep the skin's pH between 5.5 to 5.9—and a main function of a toner is to balance the skin's pH. Washing our faces 'can dilute acidity of the skin,' she explains, which could bring us close to alkaline level. 'When it gets too close to alkaline level, then it's a lot of inflammatory situations happening,' Czech says. 'So we need to bring back acidity.' There are a myriad of different types of toners, but Czech leans towards a balancing toner that aims to bring skin's pH back to that magic ideal level of 5.5 to 5.9. Picurro drives home toner's purpose of allowing the products that follow it to absorb more efficiently, rebalance the skin's pH and 'eliminate any remaining debris left on the skin,' she says. 'If you're wearing a lot of makeup, you could be double cleansing and it's still not getting everything off of your skin.' 'A good toner is formulated with purpose—whether it's humectants like glycerin and hyaluronic acid for hydration, acids like lactic or glycolic for gentle exfoliation or niacinamide for barrier support,' Hirons tells me. 'No fluff, no fillers and absolutely no unnecessary alcohols.' 'To hydrate and reduce fine lines, look for ingredients like pea extract, which have a firming effect,' Hickman says. 'For hydration and sensitivity, look for toners containing oat and aloe. For acne skin, you still would want to avoid astringent formulas. Instead, look for ingredients that can reduce shine without stripping the skin, such as wild rose hip extract.' 'Use a cotton pad if you're using an acid,' Hirons says. 'A hydrating toner can also be applied with a pad, but also with your hands or with a mist.' Picurro says it's important to use 'something soft that's not going to tear your skin' when applying toner. If you're using a cotton pad or cotton ball, Picurro says to 'gently wipe when toners are milkier' to get rid of debris on the skin, and 'then you're also going to want to press the toner into your skin, as well.' Groth adds that it's important to apply gently and 'evenly distribute. Let the toner dry before applying serums or moisturizers.' Deciding whether to use toner or not is a highly personal decision. It depends on the type of toner, Hirons says. If it's a hydrating or calming toner, morning and night is fine; if it's an exfoliating toner, night only, 'and not every night, as you don't want to overexfoliate,' she adds. Czech remembers that people used to remove makeup with their toner—but the product has evolved mightily since. Hirons adds that now 'we've moved away from astringent equals effective to multifunctional formulas that actually benefit your skin. Now we see toners that act like serums packed with actives, antioxidants and targeted treatments. Hydrating essences, acid toners, barrier support mists—the category's grown up.' The key ingredients and functions of toner have changed drastically over time, Hickman says. 'In the 1980s, many skin cleansers on the market contained lanolin, which would leave a film on the skin after rinsing, so you needed an alcohol-based product to remove it—and that's where the astringent toner came into play,' she says. 'With the advancement in skin histology knowledge and the understanding of the importance of the skin barrier, toners have transitioned away from astringent formulas towards advanced hydration and skin-specific actives.' Ingredients—like 'peptides and extremely hydrating ingredients,' Picurro says—as well as delivery systems have pushed toner forward into 2025 and beyond. Toner is often in liquid form and is close to the consistency of water. Liquid toners are usually clear and have the consistency of water—'no thickness of a lotion or a serum,' Hirsch says—but a recent innovation in the product is the toner spray, which Chapman says 'are quite good for using as that added step to just lock more moisture into the skin.' Hickman says that she has found spray formulas 'the most impactful and cost-effective to use' when it comes to toner. (When applying toner with a cotton pad, she says, the cotton pad absorbs the product as toners are fluid in consistency, and 'you will end up having to use more than is required.') Hickman holds toner sprays six to eight inches away from her face and, with eyes closed, 'gently spritz to drench the skin,' she says. She also adds that toner spray can be used throughout the day 'to keep the skin hydrated and help to prevent your makeup from becoming dry or cracked.' For this application, she recommends holding the toner about 12 inches away from the face 'for a light spritz rather than a full-on skin drench.' Another toner innovation is toner pads, Groth says (there are toner pads in Rael's product lineup). These are pre-soaked squares 'that can be used quickly as an everyday toner or left on as a mask treatment,' she says, highlighting this Korean skincare innovation for its 'versatility and functionality.' Rael's toner pads. 'Toner is one of these things that's terribly misunderstood,' Hirsch tells me on Zoom. She thinks of toner like a boost in her Jamba Juice—a buttress, she says. 'I'm not really looking for it to drive, but it's like the navigation assistant,' she explains. She sees toner as a good way to fill gaps in a skincare routine: 'A good way to think about 'How do I approach a toner?' is, 'What is my issue? What am I trying to accomplish here? Am I dry? Am I someone who's getting a lot of brown spots? Am I acne laden? Am I someone who's just super greasy? Am I someone who [is] patchy and I want to exfoliate?' That's the best way to think of it. Think of it as 'What is lacking?' And then toner kind of comes in as that ability to fill in the gap.' Czech says toner is 'very often misunderstood, but proper toner will create a healthy base for your skin [and] will make your skin healthier and stronger.' The results of a toner are typically subtle, Picurro says, so people may miss the product's benefits, which may not be as out front as some other steps in a skincare routine. 'I would always think about a toner as a supporting cast member,' Picurro says. 'You can't get that Academy Award for Best Actor without the rest of the cast. So I feel like, to really give your skincare routine that extra that you may be missing, a toner could really do that—especially toners today.' Mario Badescu's Hydrating Glow Toner Hirons adds that, while toner isn't mandatory like a cleanser or SPF, 'a well-formulated toner can seriously elevate your routine.' The sensory experience of a toner also can't be overlooked, Hirsch says. 'Look, if you're a busy parent who has two small, screaming children and you get seven minutes a day to yourself in the bathroom and skincare is where you get to have [peace]—go with God. Go for it. Nothing bad there at all. It's all good. But this idea like, 'Oh my God, you have seven minutes and you want to get efficacy,' toner is one of those steps that is just not critical.' Dermalogica's Multi-Active Toner As Chapman tells me via Zoom, cleansers of yesteryear 'weren't as sophisticated as they are now. So you'd end up using a cream cleanser, there'd be residue and maybe still some oil and dirt and bacteria on the skin. And so the finishing step would be your toner to get rid of the rest of it on there.' Now, though, 'as formulations and cleansers have become much more sophisticated, the need for toners has just gone,' she explains. As to recent evolutions in the product, 'I think there's been a massive shift from what a classic toner was to toners disappearing completely to what I see now, which is much more of a skin prepping water-based liquid,' Chapman says. That type of product could be useful if your skin has an issue and you want to put another layer on—particularly if there are breakouts, oiliness or congested pores happening, she says—and many people like a spray toner because 'it smells pretty [and] it's refreshing, so it's a nice experience,' Chapman explains. 'So if people want [toner] for that perspective, great—but your skin doesn't need it.' Sarah Chapman The jury's out on this question for our panel of experts across the board, but if toner had a fan club, Czech would be the undisputed president of it. 'This is my favorite subject,' she tells me, mentioning that she's been trying to educate the masses about toner for the better part of 40 years. 'I don't believe in trends in skincare,' she says, adding that when it comes to toner, 'I never within 40 years changed my philosophy' about toner, calling it 'the most important step in skincare.' Joanna Czech Groth believes in toner, too, and tells me 'Those that believe toners are irrelevant most likely have not found the toner that is the right fit for them.' 'Once you find a toner that works for your skin type and skin concerns, you will find it is a game changer in your skincare routine,' she adds. There is no real 'one-size-fits-all' approach to toner, Hickman says. 'Everyone can and should use a toner, you just need to find the right one for your skin concerns and needs,' she explains, calling the product 'the unsung heroes of healthy skin.' Toner is 'not an afterthought,' Hirons tells me. 'It's not a relic from your teenage acne days. A well-chosen toner can soothe your skin, boost hydration, support your skin barrier and enhance the effectiveness of other products in your routine.' Caroline Hirons Toner can hydrate, balance, soothe, exfoliate 'or all of the above, depending on what it's formulated for,' she says, adding that we should 'think of it as the bridge between cleansing and your serums [and] moisturizer, helping to either calm or treat, depending on your skin's needs.' 'Respect the toner!' Hirons adds—her emphasis included. Simply put? 'No one needs toner,' Hirsch tells me, adding that no one's skincare routine is going to collapse if toner isn't involved. 'Toner isn't a must,' she adds. 'I would be hard pressed to have you do a skincare routine and not have a cleanser or not have a sunscreen. So there's kind of the necessaries, the goods and the nices. I'd probably put toner somewhere under that. There's necessary, there's nice and then there's toner.' Ranella Hirsch When it comes to the necessity of toner, Picurro tells me over Zoom that 'really, it just has to do with whether you want that extra step or not. I do think it does help, but it helps more in a quiet, unsung way.' Picurro gets that many may eschew yet another step in their skincare routine. 'In our society, we're all super busy,' she tells me. 'It's like, 'I've already cleansed my skin. Why do I need this? What's the point?' I think people don't really understand what the point is.' For her part, Picurro tells me she sometimes doesn't do a morning cleanse and uses her toner to prep her skin for her morning moisturizing. 'And that's been really helpful, actually, for my skin because I feel like I'm not getting rid of all the natural oils or even just the benefits that my night cream gave me,' she says. When you find the toner that's right for you, Picurro says, 'it will make a difference, and you will be like, 'Oh, I see.' It just kind of pushes you maybe to that next level that you're looking for in your skincare routine.'
The Citizen
05-05-2025
- Health
- The Citizen
A quick guide to understanding melanin-rich skin
Melanin is the major determinant of skin colour and is also responsible for absorbing harmful ultraviolet radiation to protect the skin's cells from sun damage. Although all skin tones have the same amount of melanocytes (melanin producing cells) the amount and the type of melanin produced by the melanosomes (organelles that store the melanin pigment), plus the size and the distribution of these melanosomes differs from skin to skin. There are two types of melanin, namely: Eumelanin , a brown-black pigment found to be higher in melanin rich skin and shown to be more effective in protecting the skin against the damaging effects of UV radiation. It is also a great scavenger against free radicals that can cause premature skin ageing. Pheomelanin , a yellow-red pigment that we see in fair skins with red and blonde hair. This type of melanin offers no UV protection. Why do we need melanin? Excessive UV radiation can be very harmful to the skin, resulting in cell mutation, increased risks of cancer, and the destruction of essential vitamins in the body. Melanin functions as a shield against ultraviolet radiation, thus protecting the cells from the many dangers of excess exposure. We are all born with a genetic skin colour. But over time uneven skin tone and dark marks can develop due to triggers such as ageing, sun exposure, environmental pollutants, irritating products, stress, certain medications, hormonal influences like pregnancy, contraceptive pills, and inflammation such as skin trauma or breakouts. Does melanin rich skin produce more oil? Melanin rich skin typically has more sebum, some of that contains natural moisturising factors. The oil glands and hair follicles also tend to be larger, which ultimately results in skin being oilier. One of the benefits of an oilier skin is that the early signs of skin ageing such as fine lines and wrinkles typically appear much later than in drier skin types. The higher lipid content however does make melanin rich skin more prone to breakouts and acne, which can result in additional post-inflammation hyperpigmentation. Common myths about melanin rich skin: Myth 1: My skin does not burn easily Melanin will help to block out UV radiation up to a point, however all skins that are exposed to excessive UV radiation can burn. Myth 2: I do not need to wear sunscreen Wearing sunscreen is one of the easiest ways to protect your skin. Used regularly sunscreen helps prevent sunburn, skin cancer and premature skin ageing. Myth 3: My skin doesn't show early signs of ageing Melanin rich skin can show early signs of skin ageing through a more mottled appearance, dullness and irregular pigmentation. Find out more about your skin by visiting Dermalogica. For more on beauty and health, visit Get It Magazine.
Daily Mirror
02-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
Weekend Wishlist: 12 fashion and beauty buys our team is coveting this Bank Holiday
This Bank holiday we have our eyes on everything from a new dress to skincare must-haves, but shoppers will need to be quick if they want to bag them The first May Bank Holiday weekend is here and our beauty team is busy getting summer ready. Glowy, bronzed skin is all the rage at this time of the year, and some of our writers have been upping their skincare and make-up game with trending and talked-about products. Highlights include a glowy SPF by Australian brand Ultra Violette, which specialises in body and face sun protectors, as well as a string of viral Maybelline lip products that are going viral on TikTok. Another favourite is a Dermalogica hydrating mist which helps keep skin refreshed on hot days - ideal for taking on holiday. But its not just complexions we're looking to upgrade, but summer wardrobes too with picks from Nobody's Child, Dr Martens and more in our shopping baskets. We also share our tips on holiday packing including Charlotte Tilbury's exciting mini face set and handy Geske hydration refresher. Now, for those that are new here, Weekend Wishlist is all about helping our readers and shoppers find the best new buys, viral products or sharing the tried and trusted items that have changed our life. Each week, our shopping team comes together to curate a special list of what we're loving. Nisha's picks: Ultra Violette's Supreme Screen SPF 50+ I've had my eye on Ultra Violette's SPFs for some time now, and decided to buy the Supreme Screen SPF 50+ ahead of summer. I have been using it for around three weeks now, and I love it. I sometimes break out when I try a new SPF and was pleased that I didn't with this one. It has a lightweight texture and doesn't leave a white overcast. It sinks into the skin quickly and leaves a glowy finish. Despite its slight tint, it sinks into the skin clear, at least in my experience. I bought mine at the airport, but it's currently on offer at Boots for £28.90, or Sephora for £34 (RRP price). This is one of my favourite SPFs I have ever tried; the only thing that comes close to it is Supergoop's Unseen Sunscreen SPF30. I have nothing but praise for this SPF, but not all users have had the same experience. One buyer took to Sephora, writing: "I have loved this sunscreen previously, but the latest version seems to be greasier, thinner and with less tint. A little disappointing." Dermalogica's Multi-active Toner This hydrating toner (£45) is refreshing and feels like a drink for the skin. I have been using this throughout April but more so as a mist when my skin feels a little lacklustre - although it can be used as a traditional toner prior to cleansing. It works to condition and prep skin. I have also used it before makeup application, and it makes my skin feel supple and soft. Some of its key ingredients include soothing arnica, balm mint, and lavender. As much as I enjoy using the product, the packaging falls short. The applicator doesn't spritz out an even amount of mist. Instead, I am left with small blotches of products splodged across my face. I wouldn't use it as a make-up setting spray for fear that it'd ruin my make-up. Maybelline lip products I've recently been on holiday and prior to my trip I picked up some new beauty bits, including a few of Maybelline's newest lip products (after heavily being influenced by social media). I bought three products in total, and I have mixed reviews. The first Maybelline lip product I bought was the viral Lifter Gloss in the shade Stone (usually £8.99, now £5.95 on Amazon), which is by far my favourite. The colour is a nude pinkish shade, and the pigment shows up well on me - I have a medium to tan skin tone. The gloss has a thick texture but isn't gloopy or sticky, and the large doe-foot applicator picks up a generous amount of product. It also contains hyaluronic acid to moisturise the lips. Overall, I really like this gloss, however, the packaging is misleading. The chunky tube makes it appear that there's more product than there actually is, but it's mostly just chunky plastic casing - I'd prefer less packaging and more product. The next two products I picked up were from the Superstay lip colour range. I bought the Teddy Tint in the shade Current Mood (£11.99) and the Vinyly Ink in Cheeky (also £11.99). Despite swatching them both on my hand in the shop, these two shades didn't work out for me. Both are warm-toned neutrals, but they look incredibly cool-toned on my lips - even with a liner and gloss on top. The Vinyly Ink also has a chalky finish, which I wasn't a fan of. Out of the two, I prefer the Teddy Tint, but I was hoping for a more pinkish finish. Eve's Picks: Nobody's Child's Butter Yellow Bandeau Bela Midi Dress - £72 The positively tropical temperatures this week have made me want to embody sunshine in every outfit I wear. And this new in dress from Nobody's Child helps to do exactly that securing it a spot in my wishlist. Costing £72, the Bela dress is available in sizes 4 to 16 (with 18 already sold out) and also comes in a pink printed version. With a swishy midi length, the dress is ideal for a whole host of occasions thanks to its romantic frills and flattering A-line skirt and silhouette. Comfort, too, is a welcome feature as the bodice has surround shirring, making the dress expandable, and bloat-friendly. The bandeau style is ideal in warmer temperatures and will help obtain that seamless tan (no strap lines here!). While the shirring offers a more casual look, it can easily be dressed up with some statement jewellery and heels. Dress it down, however, with sandals and a jacket or, for those who want to break up the yellow, pop a T-shirt over the top. Dr Martens Josef sandals - £120 With a heatwave in our clutches still, I've been lusting after these Josef sandals from the trusty Dr Martens. Coming in a goes-with-all tan brown hue, the slider shoes are a great alternative to the more popular Birkenstock Arizonas and cost £5 more (at £120). The shoes have a dual strap design and are fitted with two adjustable buckles and a suede-covered foam footbed, making them super comfortable. Made from 100% leather, the shoes are certainly built to last and have been touted as ideal for holidays. One shopper said: 'Just love them, I cannot wait to wear them on holiday in Greece in June, will probably wear in evening with either chino's or jean shorts for that casual look, keep well away from pool area as flip flops for that job, these are good looking and will get many summer days casual ware out of these bad boys for years to come me thinks. As for fit, I am a seven and these fit perfectly.' Now, as the shoes are made with a Bronx Suede - 'a heavyweight, firm handle suede' - they may take some breaking in, so keep that in mind on first wear. Heliocare sunscreen - £23.19 With summer in our midst, we're all snapping up suncream, mist and SPF protection left, right and centre. But one product I discovered last year that saved me from burning in 35 degree heat on a holiday to Italy is the Heliocare 360° Invisible Spray SPF50+. Currently on sale at Lookfantastic for £23.19 instead of £28.99, the spray is designed to protect as well as nourish the skin and does a fab job of covering the wearer from top to toe (although mind the face, it's not suitable for that part). Made with SPF50+, the sunscreen mist is a non-greasy formula that is 'invisible' - ie, it doesn't leave that dreaded white cast many other suncreams do. Plus, it has quite a sweet smell, not chemically. It's packed with Fernblock+ antioxidant technology 'to help protect the skin from daylight and environmental free radicals'. It leaves skin feeling soft, nourished and protected - I say this from experience. While I found it great for full coverage, some people used it as a sunscreen to top up throughout the day, rather than their only sun-protection product. They said: "I'd say this isn't strong enough to be used alone and should only be used to top up your sunscreen throughout the day. Oh and it smells amazing.' Coco & Eve's Express Tanning Antioxidant Mousse - £28 We all want to be exuding that healthy, natural sunkissed glow when we wear mini dresses, shorts and our swimsuits come summer. But living in the UK, the sun isn't out enough for us to achieve our desired bronze - although the sun has been beating down this week, helping us start off our summer tan, it's inevitable we'll be plummeted into cloudy weather soon enough. While fake tan is the easiest solution and is pretty effective (with the right brand), waiting 8 plus hours for it to develop is a real faff. It takes planning and often leaves bed sheets stained with an orange hue in a bid to leave it develop to the max. However, one product I've got my eye on to try out is Coco & Eve's newest addition to its fake-tanning range that claims to take just one hour to do its magic. Rinse it off after the hour and it'll continue to develop for the next 24 hours. As well as leaving shoppers with a bronzed glow, the Express Tanning Antioxidant Mousse, £29, is powered by nourishing coconut extract, hyaluronic acid and antioxidants to give skin a good glug of nourishment and keep tans strong for longer. Shoppers who have already got their hands on this product love how 'natural' it looks, with one person raving: "Huge fan of the Express Tanning Mousse! First, the scent is incredible without the typical fake tan smell. The application is a dream—super smooth, non-streaky and very comfortable. Within 1 hour, I had a gorgeous, sun-kissed glow which boosted my confidence. 10/10, this is my new go-to tan!" Although not all found it quite so powerful as one disgruntled three-star reviewer said: "The colour when you initially apply is great! But after you wash it (I waited an hour and a half) it washes off and you're left with a hint of tan only." They added how until they washed it off it was 'sticky'. However, after a second application, their tan was 'better'. Tiffany's picks: TirTir Milk Toner, £25 As a first step of skincare after cleansing, toner can remove the remaining traces of makeup and preps skin to enhance absorption so the skin can benefit from the serums and creams. TirTir, hailed from Korea, launches a vegan-friendly toner that has rice bran extract and chamomile flower to calm irritated skin for a radiant and healthy glow. When it comes to skincare, prevention is always better than curing. TirTir's Milk Toner includes panthenol and ceramide to strengthen the skin barrier to provide a 'better foundation' when it comes to ageing. But this is also suitable for those who suffer pigmentation as hydrating agent niacinamide works to reduce dark spots and uneven skin tone. One shopper said: 'This product has hydrated and brightened my face. I highly recommend it if you have very dry and dull skin.' But another customer with sensitive acne-prone skin regrettably said: 'Does an amazing job in hydrating the skin, would be perfect for you if niacinamide works well for your skin but my skin doesn't.' Teva Hurricane XLT2, £70 Hot weather alert and it's about time to swap trainers for sandals. Teva sandals are known for durability and comfort and with fashionistas showing interest in 'fisherman core' outfits (think about mesh vest, cargo skirt, bucket hats), shoppers are opting for sandals that are built for outdoor activities. I have my eyes on the Hurricane XLT2 and these £70 pair come with a wide range of colours. But the supportive midsole with a robust footbed can provide comfort for all-day wear without getting blisters while the rubber outsole is outfitted with grippy traction. The quick-dry webbing strap and the easy hook-and-loop closure also have me gearing towards Teva over fancy flat-sole mule sandals and I can see myself wearing them to music festivals or a walk in the park. Merrell's Speed Fusion Web RMX, £85, is also another popular hiking sandal that keeps shoppers comfortable and stylish no matter what the day brings. Boux Avenue Rivoli Monochrome Swimsuit - £52 Lingerie brand Boux Avenue has brought the Italian Riviera closer to home this year. Its new swimwear range is full of elegant and timeless pieces designed with comfort in mind. The Rivoli Monochrome Swimsuit reminds me of Audrey Hepburn in Roman Holiday, with a mix of black and white that's giving off a classy Chanel look. Retailing at £52, the Rivoli is available between 30B and 38G, with two colour options: a Black Mix or White Mix. The balconette shape and padded design will surely boost the wearer's confidence while the wide adjustable straps offer comfort and support. In a similar design, New Look's Black Tummy Control Contrast Trim Underwired Swimsuit, £32.99, is designed in a halterneck style but the cups are crafted with non-removable, lightweight padding. Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Glow & Set Travel Kit - £54 When travelling at any time of the year, travel-sized makeup buys make packing a whole lot easier. Charlotte Tilbury launched her Super Nudes collection this week and as I was browsing the website, I came across this Airbrush Glow & Set with three hero products in mini size - the Airbrush Flawless Setting Spray, Hollywood Flawless Filter and Airbrush Flawless Finish. The three items fit in a carry-on toiletry plastic bag and shoppers won't have to transfer them to smaller bottles. Compared to the full-size bottles, the foundation shades are limited and only available in four options - Fair, Medium, Tan, Deep. e.l.f. Halo Glow Liquid Filter, a popular alternative rival to the Charlotte Tilbury one, provides 12 shades and they are on Amazon offer for £12. But when it comes to setting powder, the mini Airbrush Flawless Finish is a 'game changer'. The smaller-than-my-palm size goes in perfectly into any micro bags and customers can achieve a soft glow look by buffing the T-zone area with the powder. Geske Facial Hydration Refresher, £29.95 The sunny weather might give us a bit of colour but the strong rays can also reduce moisture in the skin. Hydrating products are important for protecting the skin barrier and delaying signs of ageing. The Geske Facial Hydration Refresher is a smart face mist that allows customers to fill with water or a formula with skin benefits such as rose water or calendula water. The egg-shaped tool will emit ultra fine mist to instantly refresh and relieve dryness. Amazon shoppers said they enjoyed using it on warm weather days as one shared: "The small 'egg' is filled with water and then creates a super light and pleasant mist at the push of a button, which is applied to the face. Super refreshing and highly recommended for summer. The skin feels fresh and soft."
