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NBC News
a day ago
- Lifestyle
- NBC News
19+ products our editors tried and loved in May
May is a great month for several reasons: It's the prime opportunity to celebrate our moms, enjoy the occasional brisk spring day at the park and prepare for all of our summer travel in the months ahead. This month has also proved to be eventful here at NBC Select, especially since we tried a multitude of new products that we couldn't stop talking about. Our editors tried out products across categories lik skin care, beauty, cleaning, home appliances and more. Some of our top choices are from premium brands like Shark and Supergoop, and others like Typology, Sofie Pavitt and DripDrop. While we try a lot of products each month, they don't always make it into our planned stories, so this column helps us highlight the products we are equally amped about. Want more from NBC Select? Sign up Elliott Hyon, NBC Select Page Hanyul Yuja Brightening Sleeping Mask $30.00 $34.00 Amazon Now 12% off $30.00 Sephora What to Consider I use tretinoin nightly, but it's a strong product that often leaves my sensitive skin dry and peeling. To counteract this, I tried slugging with Vaseline and Aquaphor, which was fine until it wasn't. I have many small closed comedones and milia on my face caused by using too many occlusive barriers. When I was given the Hanyul yuja sleep mask at a skincare event, the smell of the product brought me back to my childhood when my mother would brew yuzu tea in the summer to cool me down. Like the citrus tea, the sleep mask soothes the skin and protects the moisture barrier with Vitamin C and niacinamide. I use it in conjunction with the artemesia soothing toner pads and the red rice serum from Hanyul and my skin has never looked or felt better. I'm very familiar with red light face masks. Like many of our writers, my mom loves the Dr. Dennis Gross LED Face Mask and she would let me use the device at night to target my acne and dark spots. . But I was excited to try the HigherDose red light face mask because it was less clunky and cumbersome to use. It is made out of medical-grade silicone that wraps around your face to deliver red light therapy to your skin. You can choose between a ten minute session and a twenty minute session and the straps make it easy to use on the go. It is so easy to bring around and I definitely see myself packing it with me when I go abroad for an extended period of time. I do not use tretinoin on nights when I use red light therapy and the alternating routine has helped my skin take a break from the strength of retinoids. With one use, I noticed a difference in my skin. My face is tighter, my nasolabial folds look smaller, and my skin feels softer. The Naomi after-cooking hand scrub (gifted to me by the brand) allows me to cook aromatic foods without having the scent linger on my hands. It contains enzymes and beads that gently neutralize the odor and scrub the residue of stubborn ingredients from your fingers. After using the scrub, I find myself compulsively sniffing my hands because I'm still shocked by how this hand scrub completely wipes away the most stubborn ingredients like garlic and fish sauce. Right now, I'm using the Cardamom, Iris and Sourdough Crumb soap, but the brand also has Bergamot, Sandalwood and Black Pepper as well as unscented options. Ebern Designs Analiese Wood Kitchen Cart $68.99 $72.99 Wayfair Now 5% off What to Consider My kitchen is tiny — I know a lot of people say that about their New York City apartments, but my kitchen is genuinely smaller than my cubicle at work. I've been eyeing a narrow cart like this one to give me some more space to store my supplies, and Wayfair sent me one try this month. I've had it for about three weeks and I already filled every shelf with ingredients and tools. It was very easy to put together with my mom's help — the directions were clear and simple, and while I could have done it alone, the second person is quite helpful since there are a bunch of pieces and screws. I love that the cart is on wheels, which lets me move it over to my island if I'm cooking there, and there's a pull handle on one end to hold while rolling it around. Outward Hound by Nina Ottosson Treat Tumble Interactive Puzzle Ball $7.99 $9.99 Amazon Now 20% off $7.99 $9.99 Chewy Now 20% off $7.99 Outward Hound What to Consider I'll try anything to entertain my 5-month old puppy, and lately, I've been relying on this ball. I fill it with her kibble during breakfast, lunch or dinner, and instead of eating from her bowl, she rolls the ball around, which causes a few pieces of food to fall out of the holes at a time. The ball forces her to work for her food and it extends mealtime, giving me at least 15 minutes to get something done while she's distracted. She gets excited to play with the ball when I take it out now, and since she likes this puzzle toy, I ordered a couple others to try. I've been on Tretinoin to treat acne for years, and during a recent facial at Glowbar, the esthetician recommended I start using mandelic acid as a gentle exfoliator. I was complaining about clogged pores around my nose and chin, and she thought it would help without irritating my sensitive skin. I got The Ordinary's mandelic acid serum, which I've been using for a few weeks now. I apply it on the nights I don't use Tretinoin, and I've noticed dramatic results so far. My skin is so much less congested and it feels significantly smoother. My makeup goes on more evenly, too. It's safe to say I'm officially a mandelic acid fan, and I won't mind restocking when I need to since The Ordinary's bottle is under $8. After noticing that my eyebrows were growing in thinner than usual, I consulted the experts at the threading salon I go to, and they told me to stop using my brow gel — if I was sensitive to an ingredient, the gel could be causing hair loss. I still wanted something to fill my brows in with, so I bought this defining pencil from Kosas. One end has a pencil with a thin tip, which allows me to make tiny hair-like strokes, and the other end has a spoolie brush to help me shape my brows and brush out the pigment I add. I don't miss my brow gel now that I'm using this, and my hair is growing back stronger, too. Nikki Brown, SEO editor I spend a lot of time outside gardening but I despise the stickiness of bug spray. I wasn't looking for this alternative but it caught my attention during an after-brunch walk a few weeks ago and I bought it on a whim with little expectation. I already light incense at home and love the idea of doing the same outdoors. Their vibe is so much more chill than those insect repellent fans. I lit two of these on Memorial Day and they burned down over five hours. The smell is very subtle combined with other outdoor scents but I had zero bug bites at the end of the day, so they work. I'll definitely be repurchasing. Jem Alabi, editorial operations associate Typology Lip Care Set $52.90 Typology What to Consider When I was in middle school, I found out I had lip eczema, and ever since, I've taken my lip health very seriously. I purchased the Dr. Dan's Cortibalm and have been using it for years but I wanted an overnight treatment that would help with the peeling I experience at night. After doing some research, I came across this Typology lip set and at first, was a bit hesitant because of the price but after reading the comments, I decided to take the plunge. Typology prides itself on all their products being almost 100% naturally derived. The Resurfacing Lip Peel includes Mandelic Acid and Pomegranate Enzyme and is supposed to eliminate dead cells on the lips. I was pleasantly surprised when this product didn't sting my lips or have a strong smell either. Next, I use the repairing Lip Mask which is made up of ceramides and Hyaluronic acid and lather it on before bed. It's only been two weeks but my lips are already peeling much less and feel smooth and moisturized. I am already using less chapstick during the day due to the longevity of the product. Eadem Le Chouchou Lip Softening Balm $24.00 Amazon $24.00 Eadem $24.00 Sephora What to Consider May is a special month because it is also my birthday month, and when it is my birthday, I deny myself almost nothing. This year, I had my eyes on the new Lip Softening Balm from EADEM which has gone viral on TikTok and a lot of my favorite content creators use the balms. I am a lip combo girlie through and through, but the process takes time and multiple products. It has always been my dream to have one product that I could grab on the go (because it's annoying having to sharpen lip liners every other day). Le ChouChou is that balm! I bought Boba Bounce first, and fell in love with the cool metal applicator of the tube. It's so refreshing and perfect for sensitive lips like mine. Simply put: I look great and I feel great too! I love trying out new work totes, and this monochromatic one from Calpak was really speaking to me. After the brand sent a sample for me to try, I immediately started using it to carry everything lik my laptop, handheld fan, portable charger and more. It also has a long key leash attached to the inside, which makes it easy to find them when I'm heading back home. The bottom is also expandable, so I can add more space for a pair of shoes or books. Most of all, though, I love the unique chocolate brown color of it — I've already gotten several compliments on it. When I wrote about the best products for cleaning your shower, Windex also sent me a sample of this new glass cleaner to try. Compared to a typical spray bottle of Windex, it's more of an aerosol spray, similar to a sprayable sunscreen, but for windows and mirrors. I love how evenly it dispenses and I don't have to worry about a ton of residue falling on the ground afterwards. Also, it doesn't leave visible streaks, which is always a pet peeve when it comes to cleaning windows. Renting in New York City means that I have to be mindful of renter-friendly upgrades that I add to my home. With that in mind, I was excited when Poplight sent me a sample of their adhesive, drill-free sconce to try. While I have an overhead light, I love the idea of having a dimmer option next to my bed, which is exactly what the Poplight provides. It's easy to install — it has a built-in leveler and includes adhesive strips to attach it to the wall. All you have to do is make sure you let the base adhere for at least 8 hours or ideally overnight to ensure that the light stays on once you install it. It's the perfect low light for reading before bed or listening to a podcast. Shark EX201 CarpetXpert $283.99 $299.99 Amazon Now 5% off $299.99 Best Buy $249.00 $299.99 Walmart Now 17% off What to Consider I hadn't cleaned my rugs in … a while (read: probably 3 years), and they were starting to look matted and a little discolored. So when Shark sent me this to try out, I couldn't wait to get into it. The selling point for me on this particular carpet cleaner was that it comes with so many attachments — it's an upright for my carpet, meaning I don't have to be on my hands and knees with a smaller cleaner, but also has a handheld attachment so I don't need something separate to tackle stains or discoloration on upholstery. It's also really easy to use in that it's lightweight, has little lights and an auto-shutoff feature that tells you when the dirty tank is full, and it doesn't take up too much space to store. Once I started using it, I learned that my very favorite part is how long the cord is. I could plug it in one place and do my whole living room and down 2 different hallways without having to move the plug. I knew my rugs were in need of cleaning but wasn't aware of just how gross they were until I finished cleaning them and saw everything the Shark sucked up. My living room rug in particular had tiny brown marks on them from someone who didn't follow my no-shoe rule, and I couldn't get them out with any stain removers or cleaning appliances until I used this carpet cleaner. I wasn't the biggest fan of the original Backbone mostly because it didn't fit into my life gaming wise. I had a Steam Deck and my other gaming consoles and wasn't a big fan of playing games on my phone. That sentiment really changed when they added bluetooth pairing and better controller ergonomics. Moving controllers between an Xbox, Playstation, Steam Deck or television isn't the hardest thing but it takes away from your possible limited time to game. Backbone Pro made it easy with just a simple connection toggle. This along with the better hand ergonomics get closer to the feel of a Playstation or Xbox controller. I really enjoyed the upgrade and its extended battery life. Carbon38 is hugely underrated as an activewear brand if you ask me. They sent me a sample of this crew-neck sweatshirt and I've been wearing it nonstop. It has that perfect not-too-heavy terry material that makes it great for spring, while still being cozy. I typically run very hot and can never find a good summer knit that doesn't make me overheat, but this one hasn't been overwhelming temperature wise. The terry on it is really soft — and doesn't have that washed-a-million-times beach towel dry feel (at least yet). I sized up for a boxy, oversized fit and like the wide neck so you can see my T-shirt collar underneath. I also love how it looks like it has an unfinished seam so the bottom rolls up, but it's actually sewn off and completely finished so it doesn't fray. I just moved to a new apartment and had been eager to replace my 8-year-old Ikea mattress. There wasn't anything wrong with what I had, it just wasn't great so I eagerly said 'yes' when Tiami reached out offering to send me its inaugural mattress. Tiami's a new brand founded by the previous co-founders of Leesa Sleep so I figured they knew a thing or two about quality mattresses. Like many of its competitors, it comes in a box (I had a white-glove delivery service there to unpack it and take away my old mattress since both are quite heavy). What's interesting about this mattress is that you don't have to choose a firmness. It's designed to respond to your body to give you support and comfort where you need and so far it's been working for me. Historically, as a mostly side sleeper who tosses and turns, I prefer a firm mattress for that lower back support and so far, I haven't had any firmness issues. I've noticed myself sleeping deeper (and tossing and turning less), which is a huge win for me. It's also naturally cooling, and I tend to sleep hot (as mentioned above) but so far, I haven't felt myself sweating or overheating Overall, it feels incredibly balanced — nothing about the mattress feels off or exaggerated, and I feel as if I've been sleeping on air (in a good way). Sofie Pavitt's considered the acne whisperer of New York City and after using this mask, I totally understand why. Some context: We've been in the process of testing sunscreens at NBC Select and my skin is unfortunately on the receiving end of some backlash: namely breakouts all along my T zone. I typically have pretty clear skin — I get a blackhead now and then again from hormones — but I generally don't suffer from a lot of bad breakouts. Cycling through oily sunscreens every few days changed that. My skin started to react poorly and I needed a solution quickly. This mask to the rescue (the brand sent me a sample to try). Firstly, it's on the stronger side — if you've never used a benzoyl peroxide face wash or anything like it, be warned. I leave it on for 2-5 minutes (it stings, though to me, that's a sign of it working its magic) and then wash it off followed by some hydrating serums and a good moisturizer. I applied the mask to specific areas of my skin I was looking to target, like I would with a spot treatment. The mask left me immediately red after doing so — it almost looked like I got sunburn or used a laser in very specific parts of my face — so don't panic if that's your experience. Every single time I used it, I woke up the next morning with my breakouts much more contained and that scary post-use redness gone. One of the best parts of our jobs is getting to try new brands, one of which I recently discovered is DreamWeaver. The company produces hand-sewn totes and accessories in Bolivia, all of which are marketed as being 'virtually indestructible,' 'deceptively spacious' and lifetime guaranteed. I was initially a bit skeptical, but after using this cosmetic bag and one of its totes for the past month or so I can say the storytelling actually lives up to its messaging. The recycled plastic is woven in a way that makes these shockingly durable. I haven't been easy on the tote, I often carry my heavy purse and laptop among a ton of other accessories in it daily with no signs of wear or tear. The cosmetic case is sneakily large and equally durable. I've been storing about 20 bottles of SPF in it, and throwing it around my under-sink-storage for weeks. I haven't been gentle on either of the products and they still look fresh-out-of-the-bag brand new. There's not a spec of ripping or tearing, I'm pretty impressed and want to get these in all of its other interesting color combinations now. I buy DripDrop electrolyte drink mix regularly. It's one of my favorite electrolyte powders for tough workouts and long bike rides. I like how slim and small the individual packets are; it makes it easy to pack them in a pocket or bike bag while cycling. I'm partial to this variety pack because I love three out of four of the flavors: lemon, orange and watermelon (sorry grape). Nikon FG $114.00 Keh $86.70 Used Photo Pro What to Consider All my testing and obsessing to write our guide to the best film cameras got the attention of someone I wasn't expecting: my dad. He used to shoot film decades ago, and wanted to try it again, but wanted something that was affordable, simple to use and old-school (a hard combination). So I bought and tested a camera to ship his way, one I almost put in our guide: the Nikon FG. The FG balances retro and modern features well for a camera that originally launched in 1982. You load, wind, and unload film manually. You focus manually. But, crucially, there is an automatic 'P' mode you can use where the camera decides the best aperture and shutter speed for you, meaning you only have to worry about getting your shot in focus. Paired with a Nikon pancake lens, it's one of the smallest and most affordable Nikon film cameras I've ever tested. Caitlin Cusack, associate social media editor Supergoop! (Re)setting 100% Mineral Powder Sunscreen $17.50 $35.00 Ulta Now 50% off $35.00 Amazon $35.00 Sephora What to Consider I'm great at applying sunscreen every morning, but I'm not so great at reapplying. I wanted to find one that I could easily throw in any bag and quickly reapply throughout the day — no matter where I am. I got this powder sunscreen during the Supergoop! sale this month, and I will 100% be using it daily for the entire summer. It's compact, easy to apply and the formula is incredibly light. I got the translucent version, so it's perfect for reapplying throughout the day even over a full face of makeup. I've also been applying this sunscreen to my scalp — which always seems to burn when I'm in the sun for a while. Mili Godio, updates editor Gola Elan Sneakers $110.00 Gola $110.00 Free People $110.00 Anthropologie What to Consider When spring and summer rolls around, I'm always on the hunt for a new everyday sneaker. This is the year of a pop of color, and these Gola sneakers are the perfect way to add color to any outfit. Even when I wear something as simple as a white T-shirt and jeans, these sneakers add the perfect finishing touch. I get tons of compliments whenever I wear these and they're incredibly comfortable — I've walked thousands of steps in these, and they feel and look as good as new. Adanola Cotton Pull-On Pants $90.00 Adanola What to Consider When it comes to these pants, obsessed is an understatement — I get as much wear as I possibly can from them, whether to run errands, lounge around in my house or go into the office. I can easily dress them up or down without sacrificing comfort, and they're super soft and breezy for those hot summer days. They're also pull-on, so I don't have to battle with buttons or a zipper (which comes in handy when I'm running out the door). They're slightly long on me, but I can simply roll up the hem and still look put together. Catch up on NBC Select's in-depth coverage of tech and tools, wellness and more, and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and TikTok to stay up to date.
NBC News
a day ago
- Lifestyle
- NBC News
Here's everything our readers added to their carts in May
Summer is almost officially here, which means two things are at the top of most people's minds: travel plans and surviving the heat. Here at NBC Select, we've put a lot of time and thought into how we'll navigate the sweaty months, including researching full-body deodorants, testing over 50 breezy white T-shirts and rounding up our favorite portable air conditioners, and our readers were definitely on the same page, with skin and body care essentials dominating our bestsellers list. That's in addition to buying travel must-haves like portable chargers and wireless headphones to gear up for a stress-free new season. Read on for a full list of the bestsellers NBC Select readers shopped in May. May bestsellers If you're planning a summer getaway, believe me, you'll want a portable charger (especially if your priorities are photos and videos). This Anker one is about the size of a tri-fold wallet and has a USB-C cable built into the battery itself, so you don't have to pack an extra charging cable. Plus, it has an extra USB-C and USB-A port that lets you charge multiple devices at the same time, which comes in handy if you're traveling with friends or family. It can charge most smartphones two full times before running out of juice. Hypochlorous acid sprays are antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and help soothe reactive or inflamed skin, so it's great to have on-hand during the hot summer months or after a workout. Use this on your body and face to help soothe eczema flare-ups or generally irritated skin. It's also free of fragrances and preservatives, so it's safe for sensitive skin. If you have dry or irritated skin even in the summer, hyaluronic acid could be your solution: it acts as a humectant, so it draws water into your skin like a sponge. The Ordinary's hyaluronic acid serum is free of fragrance, alcohol and oil, which makes it a great option for those with sensitive skin. NBC Select reporter Zoe Malin has used this serum every day for the last six months, and she loves that it's lightweight, dries quickly and has a cooling effect. 'My skin soaks it right up,' she says. This mint-flavored Crest toothpaste protects your gums and enamel, removes plaque buildup and tartar, and protects against cavities. It has hydrated silica, which is a gently abrasive ingredient that scrubs surface stains off teeth. It's sensitive teeth-friendly, too. Sometimes, warehouse club memberships just make life easier — you can buy items in bulk, which helps save you the time and effort of having to grocery shop during the week. Sam's Club has one of the lowest-priced memberships with a $50 annual membership fee (which was on sale this month for just $25). The Club tier membership gives you access to savings on gadgets, groceries, household essentials and more, as well as additional perks like members-only deals and sales, same-day delivery and fuel discounts. There's also the Sam's Club Plus membership, which comes with extra benefits like free Delivery from Club or free shipping, pharmacy savings and more cash back. The Tower 28 facial spray, which has hypochlorous acid, is a staple in my gym bag — I'll apply it after a sweaty workout on my way home, and it immediately soothes my irritated, rosacea-prone skin. You can use this spray morning and night in place of your toner and before moisturizing. Earlier in May, Pharmaceutical company AvKare issued a voluntary recall of more than 75,000 cases of eye drop solution nationwide after an audit by the Food and Drug Administration. This warm compress is an expert-recommended alternative for soothing irritated eyes. It has 30 self-heating eye compresses to relieve dry eyes, reduce eyelid inflammation and unblock glands in the eyes, according to the brand. You can also purchase it using your FSA funds. You've likely seen your facialist use a pore vacuum to remove pesky blackheads and gunk. But they're not only available to the pros — you can use them at home, too (as long as you're using them with caution). This blackhead remover comes with five tip sizes and four suction modes, ranging from soft to super strong. The device is rechargeable and has a screen so you can see what mode it's on. Our top overall pick for best filtered showerhead, this one from Jolie has a built-in filtration system that purifies the water before it hits your body. Malin tested this showerhead over the past year, and she's noticed that her skin is less dry and her hair is softer. Jolie also makes managing filter subscription online easy, with options to skip or delay a filter delivery when needed. The Apple Airpods 4, which launched in September of 2024 and were heavily discounted in May, are a great alternative for those who hate the Apple AirPods silicone eartips since they have a semi-open design. NBC Select reporter Harry Rabinowitz tested these earbuds over two months, and says they're worth the upgrade due to their impressive noise cancellation, easy controls and lightweight, comfortable design. Plus, the charging case can recharge wirelessly and has a built-in speaker, so you can ping it using Apple's FindMy app and find it much easier. Parodontax's toothpaste helps break down and remove plaque, which is a collection of bacteria, food and other debris that sticks to your teeth and can cause gingivitis (also known as early gum disease) and swollen, bleeding gums. It also helps kill bacteria on your teeth, leading to a healthy, bright smile. Styes are an annoying and painful part of life, caused by a blockage of the eyelid oil glands that leads to a bacterial infection. If you're looking to get rid of the red, swollen bump along the eyelash line, this cleanser removes oil, debris, pollen and makeup from your eyelids. It has polyaminopropyl biguanide, a preservative that has antibacterial properties and kills bacteria contributing to the irritated eye area. You can also get pre-moistened pads as well, which are great for travel. Another Apple product we named as our Deal of the Day, the Apple iPad Air sits right in the middle of Apple's tablet lineup — it's more capable than the iPad (A16) but not as up-to-date as the iPad Pro (M4). But it's worth it if you're looking for a cheaper mode: It's fast (especially in graphically demanding apps) and has an anti-reflective screen with increased color depth and contrast. It's also compatible with the Apple Pencil Pro, which makes it a good fit for artists and creatives. Why trust NBC Select? I'm an updates editor at NBC Select who has covered a variety of shopping categories, including beauty and pets, since 2021. For this article, I compiled a list of the top 13 bestselling products among our NBC Select readers during the month of May.
NBC News
2 days ago
- Health
- NBC News
The best anti-chafing products to use this summer, tested by our editors
During the warmer months, few things are more annoying than the sticky, itchy, burning feeling of chafing. Whether you're a runner who likes to take advantage of the nice weather or someone who wants their inner thighs to coexist in peace, anti-chafe products can help prevent any uncomfortable friction that causes sore skin. To help you stay friction-free in high temperatures, we spoke to dermatologists about the best anti-chafing products on the market, plus got their tips and tricks on how to avoid chafing and what to do when it occurs. How we picked the best anti-chafing products When shopping for quality anti-chafe products, dermatologists emphasize finding the right, friction-reducing ingredients more than anything. We also valued price and our own personal experience with these products, where applicable. Ingredients: Shoppers should look for chafing sticks that contain a combination of humectants, emollients and occlusives (the same types of ingredients found in quality face moisturizers), according to Dr. Hadley King, a New York City-based dermatologist. Ideally, these products should glide smoothly while creating a strong barrier between any hotspots that rub (like inner thighs or the back of your heels), and any exterior irritation like the heel of your shoe or a wet swimsuit strap on your skin. Notable emollients include glycerin and coconut oil, which appear in nearly every anti-chafe product we recommend. We explore these ingredients and others in more depth, below. Price: Based on our own experience shopping for and using these products, we've found great options in the $7 to $20 range for roughly 2 ounces (or one deodorant-like stick) of product, except our pick for anti-chafing underwear. Personal experience: As people who struggle with thigh chafing during the warmer months, we've tried a handful of these products and included our recommendations. The best anti-chafing products in 2025 Most anti-chafing products are salves packed in glide-on sticks, jellies, powders or creams. Below, we've compiled a list of expert-recommended options from dermatologists and favorite picks that have helped NBC Select staff keep their skin friction-free. Best overall anti-chafing product Several of the dermatologists we spoke to recommend Megababe as an anti-chafe solution. '[It's] an affordable, easy-to-use stick formulated to prevent friction by providing both hydration with grapeseed oil and improved glide to reduce the friction that leads to chafing with ingredients like vitamin E and aloe,' says Dr. Annie Chiu, dermatologist and founder of The Derm Institute. Colizza has used Megababe for years and says she cannot imagine her life without it. It's packaged in a deodorant-like applicator and is a breeze to use: 'I typically swipe the balm across each of my inner thighs two to three times and typically reapply throughout the day as needed,' she says. The formula, which has a subtle, clean scent, leaves behind a residue that she says makes her inner thighs 'happily glide across each other as [she walks]'. Megbabe is formulated with caprylic/capric triglyceride (a compound derived from glycerin) and coconut oil, both of which are emollient ingredients that moisturize the skin. Another favorite product of Colizza's for chafing, Squirrel's Nut butter is made with Cocos nucifera (coconut oil) to help moisturize your skin and avoid friction. According to King, Cocos nucifera has both emollient and occlusive properties, meaning it hydrates and also helps create a protective barrier on top of your skin. Squirrel's Nut Butter is sold as an everywhere solution for athletes with chafing. The brand recommends applying it not just before a race or athletic event, but also before showering to avoid further bothering your already-tender skin. Colizza used Body Glide's anti-chafe stick, which comes recommended by King, on her inner thighs during a recent warm-weather vacation. While other options, like Megababe, offer a more slippery feel, Body Glide for Her feels thicker and more waxy, and perhaps is a better option to use along a bathing suit line or anywhere else where you need a heavy-duty barrier between you and any fabric, like the back of your shoe. Best budget anti-chafing product Jessica Wu, MD, a Los Angeles-based dermatologist and author of ' Feed Your Face,' recommends Gold Bond's Friction Defense Stick as a more affordable option that contains several popular friction-reducing and inflammation-fighting ingredients including zinc oxide and aloe. Colizza finds this unscented option similar to Body Glide; it creates a strong, waxy barrier across your skin that doesn't glide on as smoothly, but still helps eliminate friction. Chamois cream is most known for helping cyclists avoid friction while riding, but it's also an effective fix for everyday chafing. Chamois Butt'r is a non-greasy lubricant formulated for all skin types to treat chafing and reduce friction, according to the brand. It has aloe vera and vitamins A and E to moisturize and soothe skin, and can be easily washed off with soap and water. It's also available in four versions, including a pH- balanced formula made specifically for women, and has a 4.7-star average rating from 10,645 reviews on Amazon. This dusting powder from Lush has a cornstarch and kaolin clay base, which works to absorb sweat and moisture and reduce friction, according to Wu. It's also formulated with cocoa butter to nourish the skin, according to the brand. Compared to other deodorant-like applicators so far in this list, Lush's option is a powder, which Marchbein recommends using only after first applying a regular cream or moisturizer: the cream can work as a barrier and the powder, in turn, can work to absorb excess moisture. She recommends this strategy for people whose skin has already started to chafe to avoid further irritation. 'Boob chafing is real, especially for runners,' says NBC Select reporter Zoe Malin. After experiencing severe chafing on her chest and under boob area from sports bras ('the rash can get so bad that it starts bleeding mid-run,' she says), she started using this Aquaphor Balm Stick religiously before running. 'I don't have to actually touch the product or my skin thanks to the applicator, and the balm creates a barrier between my skin and the bra's fabric, which prevents chafing,' she says. She usually applies it underneath the perimeter of her bra and up to her underboob area. The balm uses avocado oil and shea butter to moisturize skin, and is all-purpose, meaning it can be used all over your face and body, according to the brand. Best anti-chafing underwear Thanks to Knix's Thigh Saver, Malin says she no longer worries about chafing when wearing dresses or skirts. 'The little shorts are thin enough that they're lightweight, but thick enough to prevent my thighs from rubbing together,' she says. She likes how soft and airy the fabric is, which makes the shorts comfortable to wear for hours at a time. 'I literally threw out all my other undershorts after trying these because nothing compares to them.' The shorts are also available in a leakproof version for periods, which has a built-in liner that the brand says absorbs about three regular tampons' worth of blood. This anti-chafing stick from Fur is designed to glide on smoothly while forming a lightweight, protective layer across your skin, according to the brand. It uses chamomile and cica to help calm irritated skin, and is infused with licorice root and niacinamide to reduce discoloration and redness. This stick is also formulated to help soften hair and prevent ingrowns, according to the brand. How to shop for anti-chafing products According to the dermatologists we spoke to, there are certain healing and moisture-wicking ingredients you should look out for when shopping for anti-chafing products: Cocos nucifera: Many anti-chafe products include coconut oil, a natural emollient that helps hydrate skin and glides smoothly. Glycerin or caprylic/capric triglyceride: Also known as glycerol, this ingredient 'moisturizes skin without clogging pores,' according to Wu. Aloe vera: Many of the dermatologists we spoke to noted that aloe can both protect the skin from chafing and reduce inflammation after chafing has occurred. Zinc oxide: Commonly found in products that treat diaper rash and sunscreens, this compound usually comes in the form of a thick, white paste and is designed to form a protective barrier on your skin, according to Dr. Shari Marchbein, Cornstarch: Cornstarch-based products help absorb moisture, making them ideal for anti-chafing products, according to Chiu. Wu added that they can also reduce friction in chafing-prone areas. Vitamin E: According to cosmetic dermatology expert Kenneth Mark, MD, products with vitamin E are 'particularly soothing' and hydrating. Kaolin clay: This mineral helps absorb sweat and skin oils, making it ideal in anti-chafing products, according to Wu. When shopping for a quality option, pay particular attention to what order the ingredients appear on the label: 'Skincare products list their ingredients in order of concentration from highest to lowest,' says Dr. Michele Green, a NYC-based dermatologist. So, 'the closer [an ingredient] is to the top of the ingredient list, the greater the concentration of the ingredient in the given product,' she says. 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? Christina Colizza is a former editor at NBC Select and has been a product reviewer since 2018. Ashley Morris is an associate SEO reporter for NBC Select, covering wellness topics like the best whole body deodorants and acne spot treatments. For this piece, Colizza spoke to dermatologists about the best anti-chafing products to stop unwanted friction.
NBC News
3 days ago
- General
- NBC News
Select editors' favorite air conditioners for any sized space
Your air conditioner probably isn't the prettiest appliance in your home, but it is one of the most important in the summer months. Whether you have a single window unit or multiple portable ones, an A/C will keep your space cool and comfortable when the weather outside is anything but. To help understand how to choose the best air conditioners for your space, we consulted appliance and energy experts on the features and specs to look for. We rounded up top-rated models based on their advice, including different types of A/Cs across a range of price points. How we picked our favorite air conditioners The experts we spoke to helped us to understand better the more technical aspects of air conditioners, and how best to compare different units. Using their expertise as guidance, we selected air conditioners using the following criteria: Btu (British thermal units): British thermal units are a measurement of the amount of power an air conditioner uses to cool a space. The higher the Btu, the more efficiently it will be able to cool a space of different sizes. For example, aan air conditioner with a Btu of 5,000 is best suited for a small room, while a Btu of more than 8,000 or more may be suited for a small home. Room size: We picked air conditioners fit for different room sizes ranging from 150 to 450 square feet. The product details for air conditioners will often say what size room or home the unit is best suited for, so it's easy to choose one for your space. Type: The main types of air conditioners are window and portable units, which we included below. Each has its own benefits and drawbacks and which one you choose depends on your preferences and what setup is easiest for you. Our top picks come from a mix of large appliance companies like LG and Frigidaire and newer brands like Windmill Air and July, which NBC Select editors use themselves. With each recommendation, we've highlighted important details like cooling power, rated room size, dimensions and air conditioner units Let's face it: Window-unit air conditioners aren't the prettiest. The Windmill A/C is one of the most aesthetically pleasing options — which is why NBC Select editorial director Lauren Swanson bought one to cool her 250-square-foot living room. She found it easy to set up, install and control. You can operate the A/C via the on-unit buttons, a wireless remote or your phone via the Windmill Air app. Swanson likes that she's able to turn the unit on and off and change the temperature through the app when she's away from her apartment. This Windmill A/C unit also has an inverter version that is quieter and more energy efficient, according to the brand. NBC Select SEO editor Nikki Brown also tested the Windmill last year and really enjoyed it. 'The installation process requires an extra set of hands because it is heavy. But once it's in, it is pretty powerful,' she says. 'I love using it with the app, which came in handy while traveling. I was able to shut it on and off, and adjust while traveling abroad.' I have two Midea U air conditioners, which is an inverter A/C, at opposite ends of my apartment — one in my bedroom and one in the living room. The Midea U is everything I want out of a window A/C. It's quiet, effective and easy to use. I love that I can control it with the physical buttons on the unit, the included remote (also physical buttons) or, if you connect it to Wi-Fi, the Midea SmartHome app, Amazon Alexa and Google Home voice assistants. I also love the little cover that comes up when you turn it on and moves down when it's off. The 8,000 Btu version cools rooms up to 350 square feet. The Midea U also comes in 10,000 Btu and 12,000 Btu versions. For smaller spaces and smaller budgets, this window air conditioner from LG is recommended by NBC Select reporter Zoe Malin. She uses it in her kitchen, which is about 200 square feet. This LG model is one of the smaller and lighter air conditioners on our list. It comes with a wireless remote that can be used to control the unit from afar, but it doesn't have a dedicated app. One downside to this model is that it is noisier than others. 'I don't really mind it because I hate silence, so I almost see it as a noise machine,' says Malin. 'But if you're looking for something you can't hear, look elsewhere.' I use a larger, discontinued Frigidaire Gallery A/C to cool most of my apartment, specifically my living room, kitchen and hallway. Those three spaces only measure to about 200 square feet, but because the kitchen has heat-generating appliances like the oven and stove top, I bought this larger, more powerful unit. It works efficiently and effectively, keeping my space cool even while I'm cooking. The newer model from Frigidaire is just as powerful but has more bells and whistles, including Wi-Fi connectivity, app control and an inverter design. According to our experts, inverter air conditioners are more energy efficient than non-inverters — you may save money on your energy bill with one. This unit is the largest of our recommendations. Make sure to measure your window and windowsill clearance so you know if it will fit your space. There is also a smaller 8,000 Btu model as well as an even larger 12,000 Btu model, rated for 350 and 550 square foot rooms respectively. If cost is your first priority, this top-rated window air conditioner from Midea is the lowest priced on our list. It is rated to cool a room size up to 150 square feet, making it well-suited for smaller spaces, such as bedrooms or home offices. You control the A/C via the dials on the unit — it does not come with a remote that you can use to set it to a specific temperature like our other recommendations do. According to data provided by the brand, this is the loudest air conditioner on our list. If you are sensitive to noise, it may be worth spending a little more on one of our quieter recommendations. The Midea EasyCool comes in a range of sizes, starting with this small 5,000 Btu model all the way up to a large 12,000 Btu unit. One of the most unique window air conditioners on this list, the July A/C has an extremely simple design and appearance. It doesn't have a bunch of obvious buttons or LED displays on the front of it — it's mainly a flat panel with a subtle button on the top, around the window frame. The brand has options that are suitable for windows that close up and down as well as from left to right. There is also a through-the-wall option for those that don't want to use a window. The A/C comes in a 6,000- or 8,000-Btu air conditioners Portable air conditioners are typically easier to install than window units, and they are easier to store during cooler seasons. This unit from Black+Decker is one of our favorite portable air conditioners. It is rated for rooms up to 350 square feet, and it comes with both on-unit and a remote control to manage the temperature. It has four built-in caster wheels that allow you to move it from room to room. Black + Decker makes a variety of models ranging from this 8,000 Btu version all the way up to a 14,000 Btu model that has both cooling and heating capabilities. On Amazon, it has a 4.3-star average rating from over 41,000 customer reviews. How to shop for an air conditioner Consumers have many choices when it comes to picking the right air conditioner for their home. Window units are the most popular among the Select team, and are 'best when cooling a single area like a bedroom or large living space,' says Brice Bowley, senior director of air conditioner technology at GE Appliances. For larger homes with multiple rooms or floors, 'it may be cheaper and more energy efficient to choose a central or multi-split cooling system like central air conditioning or a heat pump,' says Leslie Jones, media and public affairs specialist for Energy Star labeled products. Regardless of your space, there are a few key terms and labels to understand in order to purchase the best, most efficient air conditioner possible, according to our experts. Btus (British thermal Units) An air conditioner's cooling power is measured in Btus, or British Thermal Units. The higher a unit's Btu rating, the larger a space it can cool. Below is a breakdown of the number of Btus needed to cool different-sized spaces, according to Jones and Energy Star: Up to 250 square feet: 5,000 to 6,000 Btus From 250 up to 350 square feet: 7,000 to 8,000 Btus From 350 up to 450 square feet: 9,000 to 10,000 Btus From 450 up to 550 square feet: 12,000 Btus From 550 up to 700 square feet: 14,000 Btus Your room's square footage isn't the only number to think about when assessing how powerful an A/C unit you'll need, according to Energy Star. If the space is heavily shaded, you need 10% less Btus. A very sunny room, meanwhile, needs 10% more Btus. Any A/C unit used in a kitchen should have an extra 4,000 Btus to counteract heat-generating appliances. CEER (Combined Energy Efficiency Ratio) CEER stands for combined energy efficiency ratio. It is 'the ratio of measured cooling output (in Btu per hour) to measured average electrical energy input (in Watts) and measured standby/off-mode power consumption (in Watts),' says Jones. Essentially, it is one way to measure how efficient an air conditioning unit is. A unit with a higher CEER is more energy efficient than a unit with a lower CEER. For window-unit A/Cs, you'll typically see a CEER between 11 and 15. Since 2014, all window units with a Btu rating under 8,000 must operate at a minimum CEER of 11, following standards put in place by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). This standard is currently being updated: By 2026, the minimum CEER for similar products will be 12.8. For window units with a Btu rating above 8,000, the DOE is pushing for an even higher CEER, and encouraging manufacturers to use inverter technology to get there. Per FTC guidelines, all window A/Cs are 'required to have an energy guide which displays the CEER value,' says Bowley. Portable A/C units are less energy efficient, so it's more common to see CEER scores ranging from five to nine. Look for an A/C that uses inverter technology Most older or smaller A/Cs are non-inverter units. Non-inverter units use a simple compressor that is either 100% on, trying to cool your space to the temperature you set, or 100% off, having reached the desired temperature. Inverter A/Cs have a variable speed compressor to more efficiently maintain the temperature you set. Instead of running at full-blast or completely turning off, an inverter A/C will run faster or slower depending on the needs of the space, similar to a car using cruise control to maintain a certain speed, says Jones. Inverter A/Cs tend to be more energy efficient and have a higher CEER than non-inverter A/Cs. They are usually more expensive to purchase than non-inverter A/Cs but can save you money in the long run with lower energy bills. Look for an Energy Star certified A/C Energy Star is a program within the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) that promotes energy efficiency in a broad range of appliances. Products that earn an Energy Star symbol are 'independently certified to help consumers to save energy and money while protecting the environment,' says Jones. For a window A/C unit to meet Energy Star certified requirements, 'it must be at least 10% more efficient than the federal minimum for this product type, and meet other requirements outlined in the most recent Energy Star product specification,' says Jones. You can verify a product is Energy Star certified through Energy Star's online product finder tool. Can I use my A/C if it's smokey outside? The air quality outside can shift dramatically during certain weather patterns or natural disasters like wildfires. Poor air quality can cause irritation, trigger allergic reactions and lead to long-term health problems, according to the EPA. Certain types of air conditioners should not be used if there is heavy smoke outside. If you have a window unit, you can still use it if the air damper is closed. Just make sure the seal between the air conditioner and the window is as airtight as possible, says Jones. Do not use single hose portable air conditioners if there is heavy smoke outside, as these will potentially bring smoke into your space. Dual hose portable air conditioners can be used, but monitor them carefully and make sure the seal between the window vent kit and window is airtight, says Jones. 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. Brice Bowley is the senior director of air conditioner technology at GE Appliances. Leslie Jones is the senior media and public affairs specialist for Energy Star labeled products at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Why trust NBC Select? I am a reporter at NBC Select who has covered consumer technology for years. For this piece, I interviewed appliance and energy experts to better understand air conditioners and their most important specifications. I leveraged my own personal experience and the experience of Select staff members to help select recommended products. I also conducted thorough research of other top-rated air conditioners.
NBC News
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- NBC News
The 13 best bridal shower gifts that any bride will love
Aside from thinking about the best way to celebrate a bride in your life, one important part of any bridal shower is getting the perfect gift. You probably don't want to go with something too cliché or an appliance they probably already have, but at the same time, you want something you know they'll actually use. Zeroing in on the best bridal shower gifts is all about spending some time thinking about what will truly make them happy and thankful. Things like unique momentos, buy-for-life cookware and experiential gifts are great places to start. Below, we've rounded up the best bridal shower gifts worth gifting to someone special this year. Want more from NBC Select? Sign up for our newsletter, The Selection, and shop smarter. Best bridal shower gifts in 2025All of the recommendations below are directly from NBC Select editors, favorite brands we've covered in the past and/or have at least a 4-star average rating from 500 reviews or more on Amazon. Surprise a bride in your life by gifting her a small and portable photo printer like the Canon Ivy. Around the size of a smartphone, the printer connects to their device using Bluetooth, allowing you to take tons of photos and print them immediately. The photos print on 2 x 3-inch pieces of adhesive peel-and-stick paper, making them easier to add to a scrapbook. Super fancy bed and bath gifts are great for anyone, but especially those who dedicate their time to self care. The Dorai stone bath mat is luxe but also incredibly functional — it's made of a quick-drying stoneware called diatomaceous earth and recycled paper that doesn't absorb as much water as a fabric mat. It's also much more hygienic than your usual bat mat; since it dries fast, you don't have to worry as much about musty smells and mold growth. Ideal for the bride who loves a good crime doc, puzzle or mystery game, Murdle is a book of 100 logic games, all of varying levels. Players can test their instincts by deciding who committed the crime, with what weapon and where. Plus, once they finish this one, they can move on to Murdle Volume 2. We're major fans of Lego sets at NBC Select, mainly because there's so many unique versions and a variety of skill levels available. Plus, Lego Botanicals sets act as beautiful decor in your home, making them a great gift for a bride. The Lucky Bamboo set has 325 pieces and is around 11 inches tall. The Artifact Uprising photo book is a safe, high-quality 7 x 7-inch photo album that the bride can use to house all of her photos. You can customize the book by choosing the type of foil you want for the title, the fabric color and how many pages you want — you can choose between 20 to 50 pages. If you're gifting a bride that loves to cook, a Le Creuset Dutch oven is a durable pot that can last a lifetime when maintained properly. It's available in more than 10 shades, including the popular color Flame and other more unique options. It's oven safe up to 500 degrees, and while it's dishwasher safe, too, the brand recommends washing by hand. I love everything about Calpak's bags — the look and texture is unique and incredibly durable, so I don't have to worry about my Luka breaking or ripping. It has multiple pockets on the inside, a space for a laptop, a key leash and padded straps. The bottom is also expandable and allows for so much more room for personal items. I gifted this to my aunt one year for Christmas and she loves the look of it so much, and the honeycomb design makes it reminiscent of old-school French bistros. I also love the typeface on the mug and the geometric look on the side. Also, it's 15 ounces so it's the perfect size for a substantial cup of coffee or tea. NBC Select reporter, Harry Rabinowitz recently reviewed the Skylight Picture Frame and highlighted how many styles the frame has to choose from and how easy it is to set up. The frame is a thoughtful gift for a bride who loves collecting photos and wants them all on display at once, as opposed to having to choose only one at a time. They can have multiple photos on rotation and if you give this as a gift, you can set it up remotely and share a gift code with the recipient. Cozy Earth has a wealth of high-quality bedding options, including sheet sets and pillows, but the brand's bath lineup is also worth gifting. This cozy bathrobe comes in multiple styles and sizes and is made of a blend of cotton and bamboo viscose (plant fibers). It includes an adjustable waist tie and has two pockets on the front to keep hands warm. NBC Select commerce editor Lindsay Schneider and I are fans of Quince, especially because of the quality and affordable pricing. I also love how many different department's the brand has — they have a ton of items for home, apparel, bath, perfume and so much more. If you have a giftee who wants home and lifestyle items that are made to last, a gift card is a simple but effective idea. Instant Pot is a go-to brand when choosing an electric pressure cooker, but the brand's air fryer is also just as useful. I gifted this to my brother last year and love how powerful it is and how quickly it cooks food, even frozen ones. It's available in both a 4- and 6 quart option, and has multiple modes, including dehydration, reheating and broiling. Gift a bride a fancy espresso machine to help her start building her at-home coffee bar. Perfect for someone who's a fan of lattes, cappuccinos and other espresso-based beverages, the Bambino brews freshly ground espresso and has a milk steamer. You can also choose between a single or double shot. Why trust NBC Select? Bethany Heitman is a contributing editor at NBC Select Cory Fernandez is a commerce editor at NBC Select who writes about many home and lifestyle topics, including cooking, cleaning, home appliances and more.
