Latest news with #SophieShaw
CNN
13-05-2025
- CNN
This Oxo fogless mirror makes shaving my bald head in the shower a breeze
The Oxo fogless mirror is the type of product that I can't believe I've ever lived without. As a veteran bald dude, I love shaving my head in the shower. The steam helps me get a close, clean shave that leaves my dome nice and shiny, and there's no mess to worry about afterwards. However, since I'm flying blind, there are inevitably a few spots I still have to clean up once I get out of the shower and head to the sink — where I have to wipe down my fogged-up mirror before doing anything. So when I had the chance to test out the super-popular Oxo StrongHold Suction Fogless Shower Mirror that hundreds of people are buying every month, I was immediately intrigued. Now that I've used one for several days (and got past some small design quirks in the process), I can't imagine it ever leaving my shower. Oxo StrongHold Suction Fogless Shower Mirror The Oxo StrongHold Suction Fogless Shower Mirror makes shower shaving easy, thanks to a tool-free suction mount and a unique water reservoir that keeps things from getting too steamy. Our fashion and beauty editor Sophie Shaw was looking for volunteers to test this mirror out, and ever eager to try new stuff and step my shaving game up, I jumped at the opportunity. Thank goodness for that, because this is the kind of no-brainer gadget I somehow never thought to buy for myself. This Oxo mirror solves a problem I didn't even realize I had, all while being super easy to set up and use — after a few false starts, that is. This fogless mirror affixes to your shower wall via a simple suction cup; you just pull up a lever, stick it against your wall, pull the lever down and you're good to go. At least, that's how it's supposed to work. I could not get this thing to stay put on my wall for more than a few seconds during my first go-around, to the point where the mirror popped out of the enclosure (miraculously, it never cracked). I ended up buying a replacement to start fresh, and had a much better experience (turns out I just had to press the suction cup harder to the wall before securing it, so keep that in mind if you pick one up). Oxo also says to place the mirror on a 'clean, dry surface' and avoid placing it over any grout lines, which could mess with the suction. Once you've got the mirror holster securely affixed to the wall, you simply need to fill up the mirror's water reservoir with hot water and slide it onto the wire loop. I didn't love having to do this before every shower, but the hot water is necessary for preventing fog and condensation. And boy, does it actually work. After several showers with the StrongHold, I could see myself clearly in the roughly 9-inch-tall mirror as I shaved and washed my face. It might sound silly, but getting to actually see my head while shaving was a revelation. No more guessing and feeling around; I could just watch what's left of my hair disappear with every gentle glide of my razor, which was within immediate reach thanks to the handy holster at the bottom that'll fit most men's razors. I also like to wash my face in the shower, and being able to make sure I've properly rinsed all of my face wash away was a nice bonus. And since I can now reliably do 100% of my shaving in the shower, I don't have to wipe away any of the dreaded stubble that used to accumulate around my sink. Now that the StrongHold Suction Fogless Mirror is fastened onto my shower wall (for real this time), I can't imagine ever taking it down. Getting a proper head shave in the shower now takes me less time than ever, and as someone who's constantly running late, that alone is worth every penny of the mirror's meager $23 price tag. Is a fogless mirror the same as a fog-resistant mirror? Is a fogless mirror the same as a fog-resistant mirror? While different brands around the grooming industry seem to have varying definitions of 'fogless,' two distinct types of anti-fog mirrors showed up the most in our research. There are fogless models like this Oxo mirror and the Sproos Anti-Fog Mirror that use water reservoirs to avoid fog, and other ones, such as this popular YoHumk model, that simply claim to have an anti-fog coating. Certain shower mirrors, such as this well-rated one from Shave Well, claims to avoid fog so long as you keep it under your shower's water stream. How do you clean a fogless shower mirror? How do you clean a fogless shower mirror? Fogless mirrors don't require much upkeep in our experience, but common glass and mirror cleaners like Windex should do the trick. In the case of the Oxo StrongHold, you will need to replace the reservoir with fresh hot water before every shower in order for the anti-fog effect to work properly. CNN Underscored has a team of skilled writers and editors who have many years of experience testing, researching and recommending products, and they ensure each article is carefully edited and products are properly vetted. We talk to top experts when applicable to make certain we are testing each product accurately, recommending only the best products and considering the pros and cons of each item. Senior tech editor Mike Andronico has been doing product reviews of all manner of gadgets for more than a decade, and is always on the hunt for effective new ways to keep his head shiny and clean.
CNN
06-05-2025
- Lifestyle
- CNN
Crocs Dylan platform clog sale: 25% off
I've been anti-Crocs for years. I never understood the appeal of a rubber clog with holes in it, but as I turn to more sensible shoe options from Blundstone, Birkenstock and the like, I'm beginning to understand its appeal. Foot health has become increasingly important to me, and I want to feel supported while running errands and walking miles around the city. I've wanted something lighter than my Boston Clogs for those humid summer days. After seeing Crocs Dylan Platform Clogs splattered across my Instagram feed, I wanted to purchase them immediately, but thought it would be better to wait for a sale. Luckily, the red carpet-ready clogs are down to 25% off at Crocs and Nordstrom in three neutral colors for a limited time. Similarly wary of Crocs for years, our fashion and beauty editor Sophie Shaw recently tried these clogs and gave them her spring footwear stamp of approval. The Dylan Platforms were similar to the pricey leather Simon Miller Bubble Clog that has been worn by fashionistas and celebrities for years. When pairing the Crocs with classic jeans and a white tee, Shaw appreciated the upper texture of the shoe that mimicked full-grain leather. It made them look higher-end, and the deep, supportive platform base looked sleek while providing ultimate comfort. Now that the shoe dipped to an all-time low price in Chalk, Black and Wheat at Crocs and Wheat and Black at Nordstrom, I am stoked to get my hands on them. I plan on wearing them with and without socks, a pair of my broken-in Levi's or cargo pants and a baby tee. They're perfect for misty days when I don't want to ruin my suede Birkenstocks since I can wipe them off or rinse them in my sink. Why this Crocs deal is worth shopping Reliable shoes are hard to come by, and I often rotate the same brands in my footwear lineup. No one should have to sacrifice comfort for style, especially since many of us are on our feet daily, whether at work or commuting to the office. This deal is worth snagging because the price of these fashion-forward clogs has never dropped this low. The color options available are go-with-anything neutrals that you can rock all year round too. Why trust CNN Underscored Our deals team has over a decade of combined commerce journalism experience. Rikka Altland, Jacqueline Saguin and Elena Matarazzo source the deals for the day each morning to curate one-offs and retailer-specific roundups of the best sales to shop. Searching everything from coveted tech essentials to shoe deals of the week, the team works across a wide variety of categories to ensure we're finding the best buys for our readers.
CNN
05-05-2025
- Business
- CNN
Mother's Day is less than a week away — here are 68 discounted gifts moms will love
We only want the best for mom. If we can get the best Mother's Day gift with a steep discounted attached, that's even more welcomed. Luckily, dozens of brands are doing their part to celebrate moms everywhere by hosting sitewide sales and notable deals. Snag a cozy, spa-like robe for those who value relaxation time or brighten their day with a colorful floral bouquet. All that and more is discounted for the holiday. Skim through our curated list of Mother's Day deals so you can score a gift she'll love — for less. Amyo Thin Bar ID Bracelet This dainty bracelet can be engraved with their name ahead of Mother's Day. It's gold filled and fits well into their current stack. BaubleBar Marjorie Beaded Bracelet BaubleBar makes some of our favorite jewelry and now its Big Spring Event is live. This summery bracelet and many other products are just $10. Kendra Scott Mini Ari Heart Silver Satellite Short Pendant Necklace Get her something she can hold close to her heart this Mother's Day with this affordable tiny heart pendant. Ink+Alloy Grace Bracelet Stack of 5 in Neutral Save 20% on this earthy stack with code MAMA20. It comes with five beaded bracelets that can be worn together or separately and is handmade in India. • AMYO: Take 15% off gifts for mom from the AAPI-owned accessory brand. • Ana Luisa: Get up to 25% off jewelry sitewide during the Mother's Day Sale. • Aurate: From dainty necklaces to simple studs to chic statement pieces, Aurate offers an array of accessories to match anyone's style. Treat mom to high-quality jewelry for 20% off. • Baublebar: Everything from stackable rings and bracelets to custom necklaces is as low as $10. • Blue Nile: Get up to 40% off select earrings, rings, necklaces and more that make great gifts for her. • Ink+Alloy: Handmade jewelry and boho accessories are 20% off with code MAMA20. • Kay Jewelers: Take 40% off sitewide, including earrings, necklaces, rings and bracelets from the jeweler. • Kendra Scott: Get two pairs of earrings for $75 and tons of other best selling pieces for as low as $20. • Sterling Forever: Take up to 30% off sitewide when you buy three pieces. • Zales: Jewelry of any style is up to 40% off sitewide. Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cream With Squalane Kiehl's hydrating facial cream is safe for most skin types. Our associate testing writers mom swears by this product and uses it on her ultra-sensitive skin. Kitsch Sunset Tie-Dye Satin Heatless Curling Set Sometimes it's too humid outside to whip out hot tools and blowdryers. Luckily, these heatless curlers are $14 and are a go-to for our beauty editor, Sophie Shaw. Ilia Multi-Stick For a dewy look, reach for an Illia Multi-Stick this spring. Associate editor, Elena Matarazzo, keeps a few at the ready in her makeup bag and now all shades are on sale at Credo. Shark Limited-Edition Black Cherry FlexStyle Air Styling & Drying System Streamline her hair care routine with a device that can do it all. We love the Shark FlexStyle for a variety of hair styles and now this Mother's Day ready color is down by $ our review • Clinique: Get up to ten free gifts with your order, depending how much you spend. Fragrances are also 30% off with code SCENT30. • Credo Beauty: Save 20% on everything at this clean beauty retailer. • Fresh: Enjoy daily deals leading up to Mother's Day, like a complimentary 6-piece gift set with purchases of $120 or more. • Kiehl's: Everything from the Ultra Facial Cream to the Avocado Eye Cream is 25% off during this sitewide sale, so stock up now. • Kitsch: Get 25% off hair care (like the viral heatless hair curler set) and more sitewide — no code needed. • Laura Mercier: Upgrade mom's self-care routine with varying deals on select Laura Mercier bath and body products when you spend $75 or more. • NuFace: Get a gift with purchase when you spend $150 or more on microcurrent devices. • Nira: Not just another short-lived skin care fad, laser treatments have been clinically shown to improve skin's texture and tone. Take 20% off sitewide. Urbanstems The Melody Bouquet This bouquet includes a blend of roses, mini calla lilies, cushion poms and other flowers into a gorgeous arrangement that mom is sure to love. The Bouqs Co. Lemonade Bouquet Take 25% off this bouquet with the promo code BOUQSDAY. It ships right to your mom's front door and delivers sweet yellow roses, refreshing white lilies, sugary peach carnations and cool yellow snapdragons. Lego Botanicals Mini Orchid Set Lego's miniature botanical sets are easily some of the most popular kits right now. This miniature orchid should be just as popular for mom at 20% off, and our senior deals editor particularly love the gold accents on the base. 1-800 Flowers Mother's Embrace Bouquet Available in four sizes, you can save 15% on bouquets like this one that's filled with hot-pink roses, pink snapdragons, Asiatic lilies, and Peruvian lilies. • 1-800-Flowers: Surprise Mom with a pretty delivery and save up to 40% on the Mother's Day collection. • Amazon: Save on an assortment of Lego flowers ranging from colorful bouquets to miniature orchids and more. • From You Flowers: Take 10% off floral arrangements sitewide with code AFF. • The Bouqs Co.: For a limited time, get a Deluxe-sized bouquet for the price of an Original with code 2XBLOOMS at checkout. • The Sill: Plant moms can expand their collections with discounts on a bunch of potted varieties. • Urban Stems: Use code MOTHERENERGY to take 25% off Mother's Day bouquets for a limited time. Tommy John Women's Downtime Pajama Top and Shorts Set Our deals editors favorite breathable pajamas are down to $81 with code SPRING30. If you sleep hot or want to lounge in a cozy set, add this giftable set to your cart. Nordstrom Rack Cotton Waffle-Knit Robe A lightweight robe is a must-have for those who want to lounge comfortably in the warmer months. This Nordstrom Rack branded pick comes in three colors and is a whopping 62% off. Kate Spade Outlet Lena Medium Bifold Wallet This mid sized pebble leather wallet will keep all of her essentials secure. It holds multiple credit cards, has a separate pocket for cash and a handy license holder. Adidas eGift Card If they're hard to shop for a gift card can come in handy. We're loving this deal at Adidas because you can get a $100 gift card for $80. If you don't get it for mom consider snagging it for yourself. • Adidas: A $100 gift card is just $80 to celebrate Mother's Day, no code needed. • Cozy Earth: Mother's Day came early at Cozy Earth. Take up to 30% off bestselling styles. • Dearfoams: Treat mom to a new pair of slippers today. Select on-sale styles get an extra 25% off. • Kate Spade Outlet: Get up to 70% off handbags and accessories for Mother's Day. Select styles even receive an extra 20%-off discount. • Nordstrom Rack: Score more than 50% off swimwear and cover-ups, plus more fashion deals for Mom. • Richer Poorer: For a limited time, take an extra 30% off discounted basics, loungewear and more. • Tommy John: Tons of gift-worthy loungewear, sleepwear and underwear are 30% off across the site with code SPRING30. Courant Catch:3 Classics Charger This charging pad can keep your mom's iPhone and AirPods juiced up in style. It has a luxurious leather finish as well as a spot to stow rings, keys and other essentials. Buffy Breeze Sheet Set If mom is a hot sleeper, you'll want to gift her these editor-favorite, ultra-cooling sheets. They're made from eucalyptus that's designed to be even softer than cotton. Not to mention, they're 20% off right now. Bose SoundLink Flex Portable Speaker (2nd Gen) This Bose speaker comes in several fun colors to give mom a stylish way to rock out to her favorite tunes. FluffCo Hotel Pillowcase Set Save $10 on this hotel-quality pillow from FluffCo. The 300-thread count cotton helps regular temperature for a cool night's sleep. The Home Depot: Shop essentials for Mom, including garden soil, string lights and mulch, with spring deals under $20. • AspenClean: Browse eco-friendly, chemical-free cleaning products and get a free tote on orders over $90 with code FREETOTE. • Aura Frames: Save on a variety of Aura digital frames to display memories effortlessly for up to $30. • Bose: Quality earbuds, headphones and portable speakers up to 25% off at Bose. • Buffy: Score ultra-soft sheets and plush comforters for 20% off during Buffy's spring sale. • Courant: Shop chargers and other tech accessories that fit seamlessly with your decor. You can take 15% off its Mag series and 40% off Catch charging trays. • FluffCo: The bedding and bath brand is offering 20% off hotel-style robes, high-end bedding and more for Mother's Day. • Homesick: Save $8 on this bergamot, lavender and sage-scented Mother's Day candle. • Open Spaces: Organize clutter while storage solutions, candles and glassware are up to 80% off. • Outdoor Fellow: Use code MOM25 for 25% off your entire order through May 11. • Papier: Right now, score up to 30% off photo books, plus 15% off stationery and framed prints. • Piglet in Bed: Piglet's beautiful bedding is 40% off for a limited time. • Plufl: If you've ever watched your dog sleep and felt jealous, may we introduce you to Plufl, the as-seen-on-'Shark Tank' brand offering giant dog beds made for humans? Huggable and washable, the original Plufl is on sale for 40% off as part of Mother's Day. • Pura: Celebrate Mother's Day with 15% off select diffuser scents, so Mom can fill her home with pleasant aromas. Monos Carry-On Suitcase Want a stylish hard-shell suitcase for your next vacation? This lightweight, trendy carry-on will turn heads with its high-quality polycarbonate shell. It maneuvers easily, thanks to its 360-degree spinner wheels. Read our review The North Face Women's ThermoBall Eco Insulated Jacket 2.0 This packable jacket from The North Face is ready to tag along on upcoming trips without hogging too much room in your checked bag. It's 24% off and dropping to the best price of the year. July Max Checked Expandable Set Save $35 on this checked bag luggage set and then take another $100 off with the free personalization as part of this July Mother's Day sale. Calpak Luka Duffel Bag A top seller for the brand, this puffy duffel has thousands of rave reviews. Its roomy rectangular interior and shoe compartment make it a great gym companion or overnight bag. It's seeing a rare 15% off sale this week. • Calpak: Just in time for warm-weather travel, Calpak's chic luggage is 15% off when you spend $100 or more. • Funboy: Select fun pool floats are on sale just in time for peak summer pool days. • High Camp Flasks: Stainless steel camping-ready drinkware is up to 30% off. • July: Gorgeous CNN Underscored-approved luggage and travel accessories get a free personalization with purchases. Plus, suitcase sets are up to $100 off. • Lo & Sons: Get up to 40% off stylish and functional bags through May 9. • Monos: Select luggage bestsellers, like the Carry-On and the Check-In, are 10% off. • REI: Shop markdowns from all your favorite active and outdoor brands, from The North Face, Columbia, Patagonia and more. Our Place Titanium Always Pan Pro Our Place's coveted Always Pan just got a flashy upgrade. This all-chrome titanium pan is sans non-stick coating and has a durable interior. Zwilling Enfinigy Personal Blender This sleek blender is the perfect kitchen accessory. It's nice enough to be left on the counter when not in use and is a sweet $30 off in all three finishes. Hedley & Bennett Chef's Knife in Miso Orange A versatile chef's knife can tackle most kitchen tasks. This one is crafted from Japanese steel and has an ergonomic handle for easy maneuvering. Soda Stream Enso Starter Kit We love the minimalistic look of this stainless steel SodaStream. The $30 off starter kit comes with the machine, CO2 cylinder and a bottle. • Atlas Coffee: For the coffee-loving mom, get a free bag with a subscription. • Edible Arrangements: From fruit bouquets to platters and more, save up to 25% on the Mother's Day collection with code LUVMOM25. • Godiva: Enjoy 20% off chocolates and other sweets sitewide when you use code MOTHER at checkout. • Hedley & Bennett: Personalize a stylish apron with free embroidery, or take 20% off any knife at this premium kitchen brand. • Hexclad: If your mom has been looking to upgrade her kitchen tools, consider this premium cookware brand's discounted Mother's Day bundles. • Hurom: Take 80% off the Easy Clean Juicers with code MDAY2025. • NutriBullet: Get 25% off the brand's lineup of personal blenders with code MOMDAY25 through May 12. • Our Place: During its biggest sale of the season, take up to 30% off an assortment of multifunctional cookware, gorgeous ceramic tableware, genius add-on utensils and more. • SodaStream: Add some sparkle to mom's hydration with 25% off flavors and accessories with code SAVE25. • Sur La Table: Small appliances, like Dutch ovens from Le Creuset and Staub, are up to 30% off. • Vitamix: Upgrade mom's smoothie game with a top-of-the-line Vitamix blender, juicer or processor, now up to $200 off for Mother's Day. Willow Go Wearable Breast Pump The brand's bestselling double pump is $105 off. It's easy to clean has splash guard containers and a convenient app to help measure output. Therabody TheraFace Depuffing Wand Depuff under eyes, lips and more with this travel sized facial wand. It has hot, cold and contrast therapy treatments to meet all of your skin care needs. Garmin Lily 2 Active This slim smartwatch is down to its lowest price. It track all of her outdoor activities from morning walks to weightlifting and gives a full picture of her health stats. HigherDose Infrared PEMF Go Mat Recover anywhere with the HigherDose go mat. Its infrared heat layer helps improve sleep and reduce stress while the PEMF tech can help with digestion and pain relief. • Ancestry: Right now you can get popular and giftable AncestryDNA kits for up to 75% off. • Garmin: Save on a variety of fitness watches during this Mother's Day sale. • HigherDose: For the wellness-obsessed mom, this brand offers self-care splurges — red light masks, infrared mats and more — for 20% off with code DOSEMAMAVIP. Plus, take 25% off on bundles. • Lifepro: With Lifepro's 'Mom's In Motion' offer, take up to 30% off sitewide and score a free muscle massager. • Therabody: Save up to $100 on select Theragun models, including the TheraFace Depuffing Wand, the Theragun Mini and the SleepMask. • Willow: Take up to $150 off these app-connected wearable pumps and accessories. Mother's Day is around the corner. If you are one of those people who are waiting to get the best gifts for your wife, mom, grandma or other special person in your life, now is the time to do so. Many of these deals are special offers and will only be around for a limited time so buying them as soon as you can is highly recommended. If you want more specific Mother's Day guides, check out our best gifts under $50 and 62 practical gifts for mom. Our team of bargain hunters has a combined decades-long experience with deal vetting to help give our readers savvy buying advice. Advocating for shoppers is what our deals editors are all about, ensuring we only recommend the best prices on top-performing products. Each member of our team, including senior deals editor Rikka Altland., deals editor Jacqueline Saguin and associate deals editor Elena Matarazzo, specializes in a different area of interest to help whittle down the latest and greatest deals.
CNN
28-04-2025
- Health
- CNN
20 editor-favorite sunscreens that actually make us want to put on SPF
You might only think about wearing sunscreen once the spring and summer sunshine starts to roll in, but a daily sunscreen should be a part of your morning routine in every season. CNN Underscored editors test hundred of beauty products every year and consult dermatologists for expert insight, so we know exactly what we're looking for when it comes to finding a sunscreen that keeps us protected and satisfies our skin care needs. We won't judge if you don't have a sunscreen in your routine yet, but we asked our editors to share the sunscreens that they wear (and rewear) to help you find the one worthy of a spot in your regimen. Lightsaver Tinted Activated Mineral Sunscreen SPF 33 Finding a mineral sunscreen that doesn't leave your face oily or greasy looking is hard, but the Lightsaver Tinted Mineral Sunscreen put that search to rest. It has a creamy, whipped texture that blends into the skin and leaves a natural finish. It comes in an untinted and tinted version, but I prefer the latter for avoiding any white cast, although it doesn't provide much coverage. Lightsaver is made by a dermatologist and also has the National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance, so I feel confident in recommending it for sensitive, reactive skin types too. — Sophie Shaw, beauty and fashion editor Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 50 This is my go-to sunscreen to protect my face, especially during the summer months. It's a little expensive but I love that it has a matte finish and is lightweight, which makes it perfect for ensuring that my face isn't shiny or my makeup isn't melting. It feels very cool on my skin too. — Michelle Rae Uy, writer, testing and updates La Roche-Posay Anthelios UV Hydra Sunscreen SPF 50 Last spring, I picked up this sunscreen from my local drugstore. I wanted something that I could layer under makeup or wear alone that had a nongreasy finish. This formula from La Roche-Posay is exactly that. It feels silky smooth on and gives my skin a bit of an added glow, which works for me since I love a dewy finish. It's a bit expensive for face sunscreen but it's on par with other fan favorites from Supergoop!, EltaMD and First Aid Beauty. — Elena Matarazzo, associate deals editor Ultra Violette Supreme Screen SPF 50 It makes sense that sunny Australia would be home to some outstanding sunscreen brands. Ultra Violette recently brought its stellar SPFs stateside and it managed to translate all of the amazing qualities of its original formulas to the US versions with FDA-cleared UVA/UVB filters. Supreme Screen is its most popular product and it has quickly become one of my personal favorites. The SPF feels more like a moisturizer than a thick, greasy sunscreen and it has a satin finish that layers well under makeup. I'm also a fan of the Future Screen mineral SPF fluid that has a slight tint to cancel out any zinc white cast. — Sophie Shaw, beauty and fashion editor Everyday Humans Resting Beach Face SPF 30 Sunscreen Serum I won't name names, but some popular sunscreen brands make my eyes tear up profusely. I first tried this serum-like SPF from Everyday Humans a few years ago and haven't looked back since. It blends in easily and has the bonus of hyaluronic acid, which makes my summer skin care routine even faster and easier. — Tamara Kraus, senior lifestyle editor Hawaiian Tropic Weightless Hydration Face Sunscreen This has been my go-to face sunscreen for the past two years. It's hydrating yet lightweight, so it doesn't leave my face greasy. I love how it blends easily and has never left a white cast on my skin — instead, it leaves my face looking glowy and plump. Plus, it has a wonderful summery scent. — Stephanie Luna, editorial coordinator Tonymoly Green Tea Superlight Daily Defense Sunscreen SPF 50 I love Korean sunscreens and have tried all of the viral hits from Beauty of Joseon, Round Lab, Skin 1004, Innisfree and more (which, for the record, are still in my top 10 favorites!), but since it's getting harder to find original Korean formulas in the US (Korean sunscreen filters are not yet approved by the FDA), I've been searching for affordable alternatives that still deliver smooth, sheer protection and weightless wear. Thankfully, Tonymoly came out with this light and creamy green tea-infused SPF that ticks all the boxes. It leaves my skin feeling plump and hydrated, almost like a face primer. — Sophie Shaw, beauty and fashion editor Kopari Face Shield I just recently tried the Kopari Face Shield that's just as lightweight and silky on the skin as my favorite Supergoop! Unseen sunscreen. Instead of a highly matte finish though, it adds some dewiness to my face — without making my face feel oily and icky. — Michelle Rae Uy, writer, testing and updates Round Lab Birch Juice Moisturizing Sunscreen I take sunscreen very seriously, and as someone with dry skin, I need something that moisturizes without looking greasy or breaking me out. While I love some of the options from Paula's Choice and Supergoop! (which are also called out on this list), sometimes I don't want to spend $30 to $40 on one small tube of sunscreen. This Round Lab sunscreen is the perfect middle ground for me; it hydrates like a high-end sunscreen and doesn't peel under makeup, leave a white cast or have a heavy scent like some cheaper drugstore options I've tried. Plus, I can normally snag it for $20 to $25 when it goes on sale. One tube of this will last me a few months with daily use, and now that Round Lab's products are available at Target, it also makes restocking much easier. — Jillian Tracy, associate editor Paula's Choice Resist Youth-Extending Daily Hydrating Fluid SPF 50 This sunscreen is such a go-to for me. It's super lightweight, doesn't leave a white cast and works so well with my acne-prone, oily skin. It also makes my skin look glowy and not oily in the slightest. — Gabriella Triolo, social coordinator Coola Organic Sunscreen SPF 70 Spray While I never fail to apply sunscreen to my face on the daily, I'm far less consistent when it comes to protecting the rest of my body. Coola's sunscreen spray makes it easier to build a healthy habit and spritz on SPF on my way out the door during the summertime. I love that it comes in different SPF levels and fun fruity scents (my favorite is the Peach Blossom). It even contains organic ingredients, without a premium price tag. — Sophie Shaw, beauty and fashion editor Byoma Ultra-Lightweight Face Fluid SPF 50 My fair skin is thanking Byoma over and over again for an SPF 50 option of this Face Fluid sunscreen. It goes on so light, feels hydrating and sits so well under makeup. It gives my skin just the right amount of glow and the tip applicator keeps things mess-free and easy. It's packed with skin care ingredients that make it a seamless part of my morning routine. There's an SPF 30 version too if you prefer, but I'm all about the higher SPF. — Ellen McAlpine, writer, updates Kopari Sun Shield Body Glow I've been loving this newly released SPF 50 sunscreen from Kopari that has gold pearlescent minerals that make my skin glow and shimmer, especially in the sun. It's also very lightweight and doesn't feel icky on the skin, reducing the stickiness you feel during oppressive summer days. — Michelle Rae Uy, writer, testing and updates Sun Bum Daily Glow SPF 30 Sunscreen Face Lotion I have been using this a lot lately and really like how it looks on my skin. You get a little glow, some sun protection and it doesn't feel heavy at all. It's perfect if you're going for a minimalist or no-makeup kind of look. — Gabriella Triolo, social coordinator Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics Even as I've gained more knowledge about higher-end skin care products, Beauty of Joseon's facial sunscreen still remains a favorite of mine. As the second coat of paint I put on my face each morning, I appreciate how lightweight it is and how easily it dabs into my skin and disappears — this is what separates it from most facial sunscreen I've encountered, and is why I don't mind walking a little further to find the nearest store that stocks it or waiting a little longer for a delivery. — Henry T. Casey, electronics writer Hero Cosmetics Force Shield I pick up a mini bottle of this Hero Cosmetics Sunscreen whenever I get a chance. It comes out of the bottle green, but don't worry — it blends into the skin for an almost matte finish. I love that it's not oily and made for sensitive skin. — Gareen Puglia, associate testing writer Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Face Shield Flex SPF 50 A few of our editors tested out this color-changing tinted sunscreen last year, and even though I took a bottle home right away, I honestly forgot about it up until a few months ago. Lately, I've been wearing this sunscreen on days I'm working from home and don't want to wear too many layers on my face. I appreciate that it evens out my skin tone just enough so I look put together on Zoom calls, while still providing adequate SPF and not feeling too heavy. I'm almost out of this bottle but I'll definitely be restocking. — Amina Lake Patel, home and gifts editor IT Cosmetics Hello Sunshine Invisible Sunscreen For Face SPF 50 I'm obsessed with this sunscreen recently. It's super lightweight, doesn't feel greasy at all, and makes my skin look really smooth. As a plus, it doesn't leave a white cast and works well with my acne-prone skin — Gabriella Triolo, social coordinator Innisfree Daily UV Defense Sunscreen This SPF feels like a second moisturizer and goes on so easily. I anticipated it to feel thicker than it does, but the lightweight formula wears well all day, and at just $18 a bottle I can't help but be a fan. I can layer it with makeup, though I've been mixing this sunscreen with a bit of my concealer for no-makeup makeup days for light coverage and sun protection. — Ellen McAlpine, writer, updates Kosas DreamBeam Comfy Smooth Mineral Sunscreen SPF 40 The Kosas DreamBeam in Radiant Finish gives my skin a dewy glow and makes putting on sunscreen feel glamorous. The formula feels more like a primer than an actual sunscreen, but you're getting that SPF 40 protection. It's been my go-to for almost a year now — I wear it as a base for my makeup or pair it with concealer and head out the door. — Gareen Puglia, associate testing writerHow do CNN Underscored editors choose their favorite sunscreens? How do CNN Underscored editors choose their favorite sunscreens? When it comes to sunscreen, our editors all have different needs based on their skin types and preferences. Some editors favor sunscreens that leave a glowy or dewy finish, helping to make their skin look and feel more hydrated, while others prefer a more matte look. Many of the editors who contributed to this piece noted that they prefer a sunscreen that doesn't leave behind a white cast, with many even opting for tinted options that provide a light amount of complexion coverage. Another common feature our editors look for in their sunscreens is a lightweight, non-greasy formula that glides easily over the skin and wears well by itself or underneath makeup. Does CNN Underscored test sunscreen products? Does CNN Underscored test sunscreen products? Yes, we panel tested both face and body sunscreens to find the best everyday sunscreens and have conducted separate reviews on sunscreen brands like Supergoop! and Black Girl Sunscreen. When we don't have the time to test the sunscreens ourselves, we consult dermatologists and other skin care experts for their insights on topics like the best mineral sunscreens, the best sunscreens for dark skin and the best sunscreens for acne-prone skin. CNN Underscored has a team of writers and editors who have many years of experience testing, researching and recommending products, and they ensure each article is carefully edited and products are properly vetted. We talk to top experts when relevant to make certain we are testing each product accurately, recommending only the best products and considering the pros and cons of each item. For this article, associate lifestyle editor Jillian Tracy rounded up some of the team's favorite face and body sunscreens.
CNN
08-04-2025
- Lifestyle
- CNN
21 products our editors use on repeat to save them money in the long run
When our editors aren't busy testing products or drafting articles, they're just like everyone else; they have homes to clean, grocery trips to make and errands to run. This also means they know just how quickly all those daily expenses can add up (and eat away at your bank account). Luckily, because we're in the business of testing products, we know exactly what helps us save many a dollar over time. While some of our recommendations might initially strike you with sticker shock, think of them as worthwhile investments that — if you're willing to change a few pesky spending habits — have the potential to save you money in the long run. From a great espresso machine that can eliminate your daily coffee shop run to an at-home hair coloring kit to a simple produce-saving device, these are the money-saving products Underscored editors can't live without. Oxo Rapid Brewer With the price of coffee skyrocketing, I've been trying to make more coffee at home. I've raved about Oxo's Rapid Brewer and I'll continue to do so because it's just that good. It's small but efficient and, more importantly, gets the job done in a matter of minutes. This appliance has saved me from splurging on overpriced cold brews. — Carolina Gazal, associate testing writer Setex Gecko Grip Nose Pads This is such a random little product that I'm so glad I found. As a glasses wearer with a low nose bridge, it's difficult for me to find frames that don't constantly slip down my nose. These little adhesive pads help solve that problem. They stick to your glasses on one side and then the other side has tons of tiny little fibers that are supposed to mimic the way geckos' feet can grip any surface. In this case, they help the glasses stay on, even with makeup, sweat or oil on your skin. At $12 for five pairs (one pair will last me three to four months), they're a cheap solution that saves me from spending hundreds on new frames. — Sophie Shaw, beauty and fashion editor SodaStream Terra Sparkling Water Maker I'll admit it: I have a sparkling water addiction. I sometimes drink two to three cans a day when I'm in the office. But when I'm home, I make my afternoon beverage with my SodaStream. A can of bubbly easily costs $3 to $5 at the store, so because I invested in a SodaStream long ago, I've been saving money in the long run. I've owned mine for at least five years and the exact model I have isn't available anymore, but it still works great. — Tamara Kraus, senior lifestyle editor Who Gives A Crap Dream Cloths, 3-Pack I buy and use paper towels a lot less after stocking up on various cellulose cloths. I really like the options from Who Gives A Crap, because I love the brand's mission and the cloths themselves have some really cute designs. I use them for wiping counters and cleaning up messes every day, and then throw them in the laundry after a few uses to keep them fresh. — Kai Burkhardt, outdoors, sustainability and pet editor Lettuce Grow Farmstand Nook I can't think of a time when I didn't waste leftover store-bought herbs and leafy greens. While I prep meals every Sunday, I don't cook the same things every week, so some of the herbs and veggies I bought for one meal are forgotten, leaving them to rot in my fridge. That's why this hydroponic indoor garden changed my life. It minimizes my food waste by keeping things fresh, and because it lets me grow my produce from seeds, it's cheaper in the long run. — Michelle Rae Uy, writer, testing and updates Read our review MicroStitch The Original Tagging Gun Kit I bought this tagging gun last summer, and it's already saved me from spending hundreds of dollars on alterations. I've used it to fix too-high slits on dresses, tighten the waistband on silk pants and close up the arm holes on shirts that showed my bra. It comes with a ton of tiny plastic fasteners (in both black and white) that are virtually invisible on most clothes. — Amina Lake Abdelrahman, home and gifts editor L'Oreal Colorsonic Hair Coloring Device This device has saved me hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars at the hair salon. Ever since I turned 40, my grays are coming through thick and fast, and I went from needing a root touchup once every three months to once a month. Even if you've never been to a hair salon, I'm sure you can imagine how costly that is, especially since I live in NYC, where waking up seems to cost $50. I have had too many box dye disasters over the years so I swore off doing my hair at home — that is until L'Oreal released its Colorsonic device. This makes touching up your roots at home idiot-proof. Just insert the color cartridge, press the button to release the dye and comb through your hair; the bristles at the end of the device disperse the dye evenly through your roots. I was able to cover my grays in about 20 minutes with very minimal mess. This is not a replacement for going to the salon, but it means I can extend my visits a little and save money in the long run. — Rachel Quigley, managing editor Thuma Classic Bed and Pillowboard I've sung Thuma's praises before, and I'll sing them again. This ingenious bed requires zero tools to assemble, which comes in handy during moves. My previous bed was super cheap and (barely) got through at least four moves — two of them across the country. I had to get rid of it because the movers lost a bunch of screws during my multiple moves, and it was so squeaky I couldn't sleep. Because of Thuma's brilliant puzzle-like design that doesn't have small parts that'll get lost, it's way easier to move and I know will last me years to come. — Tamara Kraus, senior lifestyle editor Tushy Cloud After testing bidets for nearly four years, I'm still not convinced normal bidets can help you save on toilet paper. However, if you get one with a dryer, your toilet paper usage will actually go down drastically. That's why I love the new Tushy Cloud bidet. It's comfortable and has some of the best tech on the market, including an effective dryer. With this bidet, I only use a little bit of toilet paper to dry some dampness after the dryer does the bulk of the work. — Kai Burkhardt, outdoors, sustainability and pet editor Read our review AllSaints Balfern Leather Biker Jacket Two years ago during Black Friday, I finally invested in my first real leather jacket, and I'm never going faux again. While my previous Topshop faux-leather jacket lasted for about five years, it started peeling everywhere and was unwearable. Even though this jacket was still pricey on sale, I know it'll last a lifetime with proper care and it was worth the splurge. — Tamara Kraus, senior lifestyle editor Ninja Creami Deluxe 11-in-1 Ice Cream and Frozen Treat Maker Before I got my Ninja Creami, I was spending way too much of my weekly grocery budget on Halo Top ice cream. But now that I have this countertop ice cream maker, I can make even healthier, higher-protein ice cream right at home while spending so much less on the ingredients. I've been eating ice cream from my Ninja Creami almost every day for months, so this appliance is definitely saving me money in the long run. — Amina Lake Abdelrahman, home and gifts editor Read our review Caraway Glass Food Storage Set This splurge-worthy storage set from Caraway helps me avoid wasting food because I can easily store, see and eat leftovers throughout the week. It doesn't hurt that they're aesthetically pleasing and plastic-free too. — Stephanie Griffin, director of social Bluapple Produce Saver, 2-Pack I was so skeptical about these produce savers, but they really do help my produce last longer. I keep one in the crisper drawer of my refrigerator and one in my countertop fruit basket, and I've definitely noticed a difference in how long my produce lasts. No more moldy blueberries or bananas that spoil almost instantly! Inside the small blue apples are little packets that absorb the ethylene gas in the air (they last about three months). In fact, writing this reminded me that my packets are due for a replacement! — Amina Lake Abdelrahman, home and gifts editor De'Longhi La Specialista Opera Espresso Machine Girl, make your espresso drinks at home! While I still go to cafes, it's now for socializing instead of out of necessity, which saves me a lot of money. Think about it: A small Americano is almost $5 while a specialized latte might cost you $7, depending on the coffee shop. That's $50 to $70 every two weeks (or up to $840 in six months) that you're spending per person, and that's only if you have one cup a day for five days. Invest in a great espresso machine like this one from De'Longhi instead, and you can enjoy great coffee drinks from home and save money in the long run. — Michelle Rae Uy, writer, testing and updates Read our review Nuuly Subscription During months when I have a ton of events to attend, I always end up spending way too much money on outfits I'll only wear once. So, I finally caved on a Nuuly subscription, and the selection of clothing is both cute and cost-efficient. — Stephanie Griffin, director of social Read our review Owala FreeSip Water Bottle I haven't bought a plastic water bottle in years, all thanks to the reusable ones I've tested for our guide to the best water bottles. My current favorite is the Owala FreeSip, since it has an ingenious lid that lets you sip or chug. Not to mention it's incredibly cute too. — Kai Burkhardt, outdoors, sustainability and pet editor Read our review Amazon Kindle I love books — both to read and to decorate with — but like everything else, buying the newest literary drops has become increasingly expensive, and sometimes I don't want to root around for hours in a used bookstore hoping I'll stumble on something good. While it's more of an investment up front, my Kindle and a few local library cards have saved me hundreds on physical books. It's a tool every reader should have in their kit, plus it's space-saving, great for travel and lightweight. I'll still treat myself to two or three physical books a year, but my bank account and my reading goals have seen great improvements since I got my Kindle. — Jillian Tracy, associate editor Instant Pot Milk Frother I used to hit up Dunkin' three to four times a week for my coffee fix — mostly because I love the cold foam — but it gets expensive and melts before I can even savor all of it. Once I got this 4-in-1 frother, I've cut my trips down to maybe once a month. It makes the perfect hot and cold foam with just the push of a button. My hack: Instead of using plain milk or cream in the frother, use your favorite flavored creamer. — Lindsey Smith, newsletters editor Therabody Theragun Relief As much as I'd love to get a professional massage multiple times a month to relieve me of my migraines, it's just not realistic, and not to mention, it would cost me a fortune. This easy-to-use Theragun — though an investment initially — always does the trick and saves me a ton of money while I'm at it. — Stephanie Griffin, director of social Read our review Yeti Rambler 34-Ounce French Press I very rarely buy coffee at a store because with Yeti's ultra-durable French press, I can make delicious coffee at home. I like how easy French presses are to use and the fact they can make multiple cups at once, all with no single-use paper filters that you have to constantly buy. I'm especially fond of Yeti's unit, because I've broken countless glass coffee makers over the years and can't be trusted with anything delicate. Not only is the Yeti French press durable, but it's also insulated so your coffee stays piping hot as it brews. — Kai Burkhardt, outdoors, sustainability and pet editor LDMA Herritage Hoodie I've been looking for a high-quality hoodie for a while, and this one is worth the investment. It has a stylish, oversized fit without being too baggy, and the soft, durable material means it'll last longer than cheaper options. In the end, it's a money-saver because I won't need to replace it anytime soon. — Gabriella Triolo, social coordinator CNN Underscored has a team of skilled writers and editors who have many years of experience testing, researching and recommending products, and they ensure each article is carefully edited and products are properly vetted. We talk to top experts when applicable to make certain we are testing each product accurately, recommending only the best products and considering the pros and cons of each item. For this article, associate editor Jillian Tracy curated our editors' favorite money-saving products that they use every day.
