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Vogue
a day ago
- Health
- Vogue
11 Best Facial Scrubs for a Smoother, Brighter Complexion
Facial scrubs have had their fair share of ups and downs in the skin-care spotlight. Once beloved during the St. Ives apricot scrub era, they later fell from grace for causing microtears in the skin and disrupting the barrier. Today, the best facial scrubs have evolved with gentler, more refined formulas that physically exfoliate without doing harm. Instead of harsh grit, they delicately remove dead skin cells, leaving a smoother, brighter complexion. Vogue's Favorite Facial Scrubs Which is why we asked the experts whether or not they recommend facial scrubs for exfoliating skin (spoiler: they do), how often to use them, what to look for in a formula, and the ones they trust most. Below, a look at their recommendations for the best facial scrubs for a smoother, more even, and brighter complexion. In This Story: Best Overall: Tatcha The Rice Polish Tatcha The Rice Polish $68 TATCHA Why We Love It : According to board-certified dermatologist Dr. Corey L. Hartman, Tatcha's The Rice Polish uses finely milled Japanese rice bran as its physical exfoliant. Because the particles are small and uniform, it's well-tolerated by most skin types, including sensitive skin. 'This is a good option for anyone looking to minimize the appearance of pores,' says Dr. Hartman. 'The papaya enzymes offer gentle chemical exfoliation, while silk extracts help condition and soothe the skin.' The fine exfoliant also helps clear out debris, leaving pores looking smoother and less noticeable. : According to board-certified dermatologist Dr. Corey L. Hartman, Tatcha's The Rice Polish uses finely milled Japanese rice bran as its physical exfoliant. Because the particles are small and uniform, it's well-tolerated by most skin types, including sensitive skin. 'This is a good option for anyone looking to minimize the appearance of pores,' says Dr. Hartman. 'The papaya enzymes offer gentle chemical exfoliation, while silk extracts help condition and soothe the skin.' The fine exfoliant also helps clear out debris, leaving pores looking smoother and less noticeable. Key Ingredients: Japanese rice bran, papaya enzymes, licorice root Japanese rice bran, papaya enzymes, licorice root Best For : All skin types, smoothing : All skin types, smoothing Size: 2.1 oz, 0.5 oz Best Dual Exfoliator: Lancer The Method: Polish Exfoliator Lancer The Method: Polish Exfoliator $80 NORDSTROM Why We Love It : The first skincare product I ever splurged on, Lancer The Method Polish, still holds a soft spot in my heart. But beyond nostalgia, it truly delivers results. It's a dual exfoliator, using both chemical and physical exfoliants to resurface the skin. Dr. Hartman explains that the formula combines uniform magnesium crystals with pumpkin and pomegranate enzymes to loosen the bonds holding dead skin cells in place, then physically sweep them away for a smoother, softer texture. 'The formula helps improve the skin's overall appearance with antioxidant-rich winged kelp, which hydrates and leaves the skin feeling refreshed,' he adds. : The first skincare product I ever splurged on, Lancer The Method Polish, still holds a soft spot in my heart. But beyond nostalgia, it truly delivers results. It's a dual exfoliator, using both chemical and physical exfoliants to resurface the skin. Dr. Hartman explains that the formula combines uniform magnesium crystals with pumpkin and pomegranate enzymes to loosen the bonds holding dead skin cells in place, then physically sweep them away for a smoother, softer texture. 'The formula helps improve the skin's overall appearance with antioxidant-rich winged kelp, which hydrates and leaves the skin feeling refreshed,' he adds. Key Ingredients: Pumpkin enzymes, pomegranate enzymes, winged kelp, magnesium crystals Pumpkin enzymes, pomegranate enzymes, winged kelp, magnesium crystals Best For : Normal to combination skin : Normal to combination skin Size: 4.2 oz Best for Brightening: YSE Your Favorite Ex Exfoliating Gel YSE Beauty Enzymatic and Physical Exfoliating Gel $58 YSE BEAUTY Why We Love It : A double whammy, the YSE Gentle Enzymatic and Physical Exfoliating Gel uses both physical and chemical exfoliants to sweep away dead skin cells from the surface. Dr. Hartman explains that the physical exfoliant in the formula is cellulose acetate, a synthetic polymer derived from plant-based cellulose fibers. And if you're worried about dryness, he reassures that the formula also includes squalane to boost hydration, along with hibiscus and passion fruit extracts to help brighten and even out the skin's tone. : A double whammy, the YSE Gentle Enzymatic and Physical Exfoliating Gel uses both physical and chemical exfoliants to sweep away dead skin cells from the surface. Dr. Hartman explains that the physical exfoliant in the formula is cellulose acetate, a synthetic polymer derived from plant-based cellulose fibers. And if you're worried about dryness, he reassures that the formula also includes squalane to boost hydration, along with hibiscus and passion fruit extracts to help brighten and even out the skin's tone. Key Ingredients: Papaya enzymes, cellulose acetate, passion fruit and hibiscus extract, squalane Papaya enzymes, cellulose acetate, passion fruit and hibiscus extract, squalane Best For : Uneven texture, mature skin : Uneven texture, mature skin Size: 75 mL Best for Hyperpigmentation: Natura Bissé C+C Vitamin Scrub Why We Love It : If you ever studied abroad in Bar-thay-lona, you might recognize Natura Bissé as one of the city's premier skincare brands. This particular scrub is a standout for anyone dealing with hyperpigmentation, combining the brightening power of vitamin C with rosehip seeds, a natural physical exfoliant. 'Vitamin C has been shown to reduce hyperpigmentation and dark spots on the skin for a more even-toned complexion,' says Dr. Hartman, referring to the formula's potent antioxidant blend. : If you ever studied abroad in Bar-thay-lona, you might recognize Natura Bissé as one of the city's premier skincare brands. This particular scrub is a standout for anyone dealing with hyperpigmentation, combining the brightening power of vitamin C with rosehip seeds, a natural physical exfoliant. 'Vitamin C has been shown to reduce hyperpigmentation and dark spots on the skin for a more even-toned complexion,' says Dr. Hartman, referring to the formula's potent antioxidant blend. Key Ingredients: Vitamin C, rosehip seeds, bitter orange extract Vitamin C, rosehip seeds, bitter orange extract Best For : Dark spots : Dark spots Size: 100 mL Best Splurge: La Prairie Cellular Mineral Face Exfoliator La Prairie Cellular Mineral Face Exfoliator $170 NORDSTROM Why We Love It : 'This exfoliator is as luxurious as skincare gets,' says board-certified dermatologist Dr. Ali Shahbaz of La Prairie's mineral face exfoliator, which rings in at $170 and is infused with rich minerals and fine crystals to deeply polish the skin. 'I recommend this for those with dry or mature skin who want a weekly reset,' he adds. Just be cautious if your skin is sensitive—its intensity means a little goes a long way. : 'This exfoliator is as luxurious as skincare gets,' says board-certified dermatologist Dr. Ali Shahbaz of La Prairie's mineral face exfoliator, which rings in at $170 and is infused with rich minerals and fine crystals to deeply polish the skin. 'I recommend this for those with dry or mature skin who want a weekly reset,' he adds. Just be cautious if your skin is sensitive—its intensity means a little goes a long way. Key Ingredients: Gem powders, rosa centifolia Gem powders, rosa centifolia Best For : Dry skin, oily skin : Dry skin, oily skin Size: 100 mL Best for Sensitive Skin: The Outset Exfoliating Revitalizing & Energizing Caffeine Micro Polish Why We Love It : Like all of The Outset's products, this scrub is formulated to be gentle and non-irritating. It's also vegan, hypoallergenic, cruelty-free, and made without parabens, silicones, or gluten. The mineral-based formula is designed to revive dull, tired skin using a combination of physical exfoliation and caffeine. Dr. Hartman explains, 'Fine perlite helps exfoliate the skin, while caffeine helps boost blood flow to the surface, resulting in a brighter complexion.' : Like all of The Outset's products, this scrub is formulated to be gentle and non-irritating. It's also vegan, hypoallergenic, cruelty-free, and made without parabens, silicones, or gluten. The mineral-based formula is designed to revive dull, tired skin using a combination of physical exfoliation and caffeine. Dr. Hartman explains, 'Fine perlite helps exfoliate the skin, while caffeine helps boost blood flow to the surface, resulting in a brighter complexion.' Key Ingredients: Fine perlite, caffeine Fine perlite, caffeine Best For : Sensitive skin : Sensitive skin Size: 100 mL Best for Smoothing: Kiehl's Epidermal Re-Texturizing Micro-Dermabrasion Face Exfoliator Why We Love It : With micro-particles designed to mimic in-office microdermabrasion, Dr. Shahbaz says this scrub can significantly smooth skin and reduce uneven tone. 'It's best suited for those with normal to oily skin, and definitely not something to use daily. Once a week is plenty,' he notes. What's great is that it isn't limited to just your face—you can also use it to target discoloration on your hands and décolletage. Just make sure your skin is damp, and apply it using upward and outward circular motions. : With micro-particles designed to mimic in-office microdermabrasion, Dr. Shahbaz says this scrub can significantly smooth skin and reduce uneven tone. 'It's best suited for those with normal to oily skin, and definitely not something to use daily. Once a week is plenty,' he notes. What's great is that it isn't limited to just your face—you can also use it to target discoloration on your hands and décolletage. Just make sure your skin is damp, and apply it using upward and outward circular motions. Key Ingredients: Micronized shells, willow herb Micronized shells, willow herb Best For : Dry skin : Dry skin Size: 2.5 oz Best for Skin Barrier Support: Avène Gentle Exfoliating Gel Avène Gentle Exfoliating Gel $26 DERMSTORE Why We Love It : If you've avoided exfoliation out of fear your skin can't handle it, Dr. Shahbaz offers some reassurance. 'This is a great option for sensitive skin,' he says of this gentle formula, which is lightweight, non-irritating, and enriched with Avène's signature thermal spring water. 'The biodegradable beads offer mild exfoliation, making it perfect for regular use one to two times a week.' Not sure what to follow with? He recommends Avène Cicalfate+, a post-biotic-rich cream that calms inflammation and helps reinforce the skin barrier after exfoliation. : If you've avoided exfoliation out of fear your skin can't handle it, Dr. Shahbaz offers some reassurance. 'This is a great option for sensitive skin,' he says of this gentle formula, which is lightweight, non-irritating, and enriched with Avène's signature thermal spring water. 'The biodegradable beads offer mild exfoliation, making it perfect for regular use one to two times a week.' Not sure what to follow with? He recommends Avène Cicalfate+, a post-biotic-rich cream that calms inflammation and helps reinforce the skin barrier after exfoliation. Key Ingredients: Thermal spring water, biodegradable beads Thermal spring water, biodegradable beads Best For : Sensitive skin : Sensitive skin Size: 75 mL Best for Softening: Oak Essentials Renew Face Polish Oak Essentials Renew Face Polish $58 NORDSTROM Why We Love It : Ideal for those with dry or combination skin, this face polish from Jenni Kayne's Oak Essentials smooths without stripping. It blends mineral-rich powders with nourishing oils for a creamy, gentle exfoliation—nothing like the harsh, sandpaper-like scrubs of the past. 'I'd recommend it as a weekly indulgence, especially if your skin needs a glow-up without the grit,' says Dr. Shahbaz. : Ideal for those with dry or combination skin, this face polish from Jenni Kayne's Oak Essentials smooths without stripping. It blends mineral-rich powders with nourishing oils for a creamy, gentle exfoliation—nothing like the harsh, sandpaper-like scrubs of the past. 'I'd recommend it as a weekly indulgence, especially if your skin needs a glow-up without the grit,' says Dr. Shahbaz. Key Ingredients: Pineapple extract, red seaweed algae extract, potato extract Pineapple extract, red seaweed algae extract, potato extract Best For : Dry skin, combination skin : Dry skin, combination skin Size: 100 mL Best for Oily Skin: Clinique Exfoliating Face Scrub Clinique Exfoliating Face Scrub $30 SEPHORA Why We Love It : You might have grown up with this BHA exfoliator, and it's still standing the test of time. Safe for most skin types, the formula is free of fragrance, oil, mineral oil, alcohol, talc, silicone, and gluten. It also gets a dermatologist stamp of approval. New York City-based board-certified dermatologist Dr. Toral Vaidya explains, 'Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid that penetrates deep into the pores to dissolve excess oils, while silica beads provide gentle physical exfoliation by helping to remove dead skin cells from the surface.' : You might have grown up with this BHA exfoliator, and it's still standing the test of time. Safe for most skin types, the formula is free of fragrance, oil, mineral oil, alcohol, talc, silicone, and gluten. It also gets a dermatologist stamp of approval. New York City-based board-certified dermatologist Dr. Toral Vaidya explains, 'Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid that penetrates deep into the pores to dissolve excess oils, while silica beads provide gentle physical exfoliation by helping to remove dead skin cells from the surface.' Key Ingredients: Salycilic acid, silica beads Salycilic acid, silica beads Best For : Oily skin, uneven texture : Oily skin, uneven texture Size: 100 mL Best for Dry Skin: Dermalogica Daily Milkfoliant Dermalogica Daily Milkfoliant, Face Exfoliator $68 AMAZON Why We Love It : A staple in my household growing up, this oat-based powder exfoliant gently improves skin smoothness and radiance while supporting the skin barrier. Designed for daily use, Dr. Hartman says people with normal, oily, or combination skin may benefit from using it every day to help exfoliate and brighten. For dry or sensitive skin, one to two times per week may be enough. 'The formula's main ingredient, rice powder, activates when mixed with water to deliver AHAs that help brighten the skin,' he explains. And since it's a powder, you can control the texture—just be sure to use water sparingly so it doesn't get too runny. : A staple in my household growing up, this oat-based powder exfoliant gently improves skin smoothness and radiance while supporting the skin barrier. Designed for daily use, Dr. Hartman says people with normal, oily, or combination skin may benefit from using it every day to help exfoliate and brighten. For dry or sensitive skin, one to two times per week may be enough. 'The formula's main ingredient, rice powder, activates when mixed with water to deliver AHAs that help brighten the skin,' he explains. And since it's a powder, you can control the texture—just be sure to use water sparingly so it doesn't get too runny. Key Ingredients: Papaya enzymes, coconut milk, salicylic acid, phytic acid, colloidal oatmeal Papaya enzymes, coconut milk, salicylic acid, phytic acid, colloidal oatmeal Best For : All skin types : All skin types Size: 2.6 oz, 0.45 oz Best for Acne-Prone Skin: Ranavat Smoothing Facial Polish Ranavat Smoothing Facial Polish $45 RANAVAT Why We Love It : Inspired by Ayurvedic rituals, this botanical-rich polish feels like a spa treatment at home, especially if you slow down and take the time to breathe it all in. Dr. Shahbaz says it's gentle enough for most skin types, with ingredients like rice powder and nourishing oils that help brighten and soften without irritation. 'A lovely choice one to two times a week for those who favor clean, plant-based beauty,' he adds. : Inspired by Ayurvedic rituals, this botanical-rich polish feels like a spa treatment at home, especially if you slow down and take the time to breathe it all in. Dr. Shahbaz says it's gentle enough for most skin types, with ingredients like rice powder and nourishing oils that help brighten and soften without irritation. 'A lovely choice one to two times a week for those who favor clean, plant-based beauty,' he adds. Key Ingredients: Rice powder, ashwagandha, lotus seed Rice powder, ashwagandha, lotus seed Best For : All skin types : All skin types Size: 100 mL Best for Clarifying: Furtuna Skin Triple Active Exfoliator Why We Love It : While this exfoliator errs on the pricier side, Dr. Vaidya explains that it's formulated with both PHAs and AHAs to gently accelerate cell turnover, resulting in a more even, refined texture. The payoff? When you look in the mirror, you'll notice brighter, smoother skin and a radiant glow, without the irritation or sensitivity often associated with harsher exfoliants. : While this exfoliator errs on the pricier side, Dr. Vaidya explains that it's formulated with both PHAs and AHAs to gently accelerate cell turnover, resulting in a more even, refined texture. The payoff? When you look in the mirror, you'll notice brighter, smoother skin and a radiant glow, without the irritation or sensitivity often associated with harsher exfoliants. Key Ingredients: Olive pit powder, fruit enzymes, volcanic perlite Olive pit powder, fruit enzymes, volcanic perlite Best For : All skin types, dullness : All skin types, dullness Size: 80 mL Best for Radiance: Typology P71 Radiance Face Scrub with Rosehip Oil Typology Radiance Face Scrub $39 TYPOLOGY Why We Love It : Interestingly enough, this scrub offers a unique three-phase texture. It starts as a gel, transforms into an exfoliating oil as you massage it in, and finishes as a milk when rinsed with water. Made in France, Dr. Vaidya says that it's nourishing and safe for most skin types, though it does contain essential oils, so those with sensitivities may want to proceed with caution. Despite its gel base, the texture isn't sticky or tacky. Instead, it feels luxurious on the skin and leaves dull complexions noticeably more radiant after rinsing. : Interestingly enough, this scrub offers a unique three-phase texture. It starts as a gel, transforms into an exfoliating oil as you massage it in, and finishes as a milk when rinsed with water. Made in France, Dr. Vaidya says that it's nourishing and safe for most skin types, though it does contain essential oils, so those with sensitivities may want to proceed with caution. Despite its gel base, the texture isn't sticky or tacky. Instead, it feels luxurious on the skin and leaves dull complexions noticeably more radiant after rinsing. Key Ingredients: Organic rosehip oil, organic macerated carrot oil, apricot kernel powder Organic rosehip oil, organic macerated carrot oil, apricot kernel powder Best For : Textured skin : Textured skin Size: 1.7 oz
Buzz Feed
a day ago
- Health
- Buzz Feed
If Pricey Beauty Products Are Putting A Dent In Your Budget, Try These 33 Affordable Alternatives
A Briotech spray for soothing rashes, sunburns, rosacea, eczema, and other skin irritations, *extremely* similar to the beloved (but pricey) Tower 28 SOS Daily Rescue Spray. Its secret is hypochlorous acid, an ingredient found naturally in our white blood cells that helps soothe inflammation and strengthen the skin barrier. This stuff = magic in a bottle. Cosrx Snail Mucin 96% Power Repairing Essence, a holy grail serum for many people with dry, sensitive skin and a gentler, cheaper alternative to many name-brand products. It's effective on all skin types, and reviewers report seeing improvement after just a few uses! Acne scars, dark spots, and fine lines are about to meet their match. And SeoulCeuticals Snail Repair Cream for applying after any serums — this non-comedogenic moisturizer contains 97.5% snail mucin filtrate as well as vitamin E, organic aloe, and shea butter. Softer, smoother, brighter skin is in your you didn't even have to splurge on Sunday Riley or Drunk Elephant. A bottle of Elizavecca Hair Treatment formulated to deeply repair and hydrate your hair thanks to restorative ingredients like collagen and ceramide 3. You just apply it after shampooing, wait as little as five minutes, then rinse it out for hair that looks *and* feels silky soft. Some reviewers say it's even BETTER than Olaplex, which is over three times the price! Long-lasting Peripera Ink Velvet Lip Tint, worth the try if you like a little color on your lips but can't be bothered with lipsticks that constantly need touch-ups. This'll give your pout a smooth, ultra-pigmented stain with a silky finish, *and* it also has a lightweight feel that's not sticky or clumpy! E.l.f. Poreless Putty Primer, which blurs your pores and creates a smooth, velvety texture for makeup to glide over and also grip onto. Infused with squalane for hydration, Poreless Putty Primer has a mattifying effect that doesn't look dry — plus, it's small enough to take on the go in case you need touch-ups. Blink, and you might mistake it for Tatcha's Silk Canvas primer and other pricier options. A pack of two Venus Visage teeth whitening pens, minty fresh without the weird aftertaste and completely painless — no discomfort for sensitive teeth and gums! But most importantly, it leaves your teeth noticeably whiter, and at a fraction of the cost of the dentist (and Crest Whitestrips). A bottle of Fanola "No Yellow" purple shampoo to help your blonde or gray hair continue looking its best in between salon appointments, since this'll neutralize yellow, brassy tones that start to peek through over time. Reviewers say they see a big difference in their hair after each use! Peach Slices acne spot dots for a *super* budget-friendly hydrocolloid acne patch option compared to other brands like Mighty Patch. Keep them around if you're prone to sudden breakouts, and they'll come in clutch: Just apply one to a zit, and it'll literally suck out all that nasty gunk, leaving the area noticeably flatter with less redness overnight. Or LivaClean Superstar pimple patches if you love the look of those cute but pricey Starface patches — reviewers swear up and down that these work waaay better, *and* you're literally paying 3 cents per patch. A L'Oreal Paris rinse-out lamellar water treatment that'll transform your hair in just eight seconds (!) to leave your hair shiny, silky, and ultra-hydrated, no matter your hair type! Psst — they might reach for Redken at your local salon, but this has the same ingredients as that brand's lamellar treatment for way less. LilyAna Naturals eye cream to brighten and firm undereye skin to reduce puffiness, fine lines, and bags, but it doesn't stop there — this potent cream also nourishes the delicate area with restorative ingredients like rosehip seed oil, organic hibiscus flower extracts, and vitamin E. And unlike some eye creams, it also won't break the bank — a win-win. Essence's Lash Princess mascara beloved for its ability to give you bold, dramatic lashes while also separating them to prevent clumping — and for its $5 price tag. People *rave* about this bestselling tube as a swap for more expensive mascaras like Too Faced Better Than Sex, L'Oreal Telescopic Lift, and many, many more. A Revlon one-step hair dryer and volumizer so you can give yourself a gorgeous blowout without visiting the salon — it knocks out drying *and* styling your hair in one step to save time in the mornings too! Dropping $500+ on a Dyson Airwrap suddenly less appealing. An internet-beloved set of makeup sponges — reviewers sing their praises as a budget-friendly swap for Beauty Blender and Real Techniques, since you get five of these for less than $10! Plus, when it comes to blending foundation, concealer, powder, and BB creams, there's no better tool for a ~flawless~ finish. And a bottle of makeup brush-cleaning shampoo because chances are, your sponges and brushes are overdue for a good cleaning. Made with gentle, plant-based ingredients, this cleanser will remove all the built-up makeup, oil, and impurities from your tools — and watching all the gunk be washed down the sink is *so* satisfying. Nyx Fat Oil Lip Drip in case that $40 Dior lip oil has been in your cart forever, but you just can't bring yourself to pull the trigger. At $9, this version's a much lighter hit to your wallet, with the same burst of hydration (made with vegan squalane!) sheer color, and non-sticky finish reviewers can't get enough of. A pack of bamboo oil-blotting sheets to keep yourself from looking greasy by 10 a.m. — you can keep these in your bag for quick touch-ups throughout the day as needed! (Don't worry, your makeup will remain unscathed.) This 100-count pack will cost you less than 10 bucks, a fraction of what premium brands like Tatcha charge. A trio of hydrating lip sleeping masks if you've been hesitant to pull the trigger on that $24 Laneige lip mask that's *everywhere* these days — getting three flavors for under $10 feels like a great alternative if you ask me. Just smear some on your dry, cracked lips before bed and dream of the smooth, soft lips you'll have come morning. A rainbow-inspired eyeshadow palette with 40 matte, shimmer, and metallic shades so you can play with pretty much any color to paint the ~canvas~ that is your lovely face. Loved by amateurs and professional makeup artists alike, this is a great all-in-one palette for anyone who's not afraid to dabble with bright colors. And a tube of Elizabeth Mott Thank Me Later Eyeshadow Base because if you're applying eyeshadow without primer, you're not getting its full effect. Not only will it make your eyeshadow look bolder and extra pigmented, but it'll also combat oil and creasing so your smoky eye looks flawless all night long. Mac Paint Pot, it was nice knowin' ya. Physicians Formula Diamond Dust translucent powder for brushing some shimmer onto your cheeks, eyes, lips, and elsewhere for a glassy skin effect. Reviewers compare this to Fenty Beauty's Diamond Bomb highlighter (which retails for over $40), though this is *slightly* less pigmented, which some said they actually prefer. Maybelline's Cheek Heat gel-cream blush because, don't get me wrong, we love Glossier Cloud Paint around stocking up on your favorite shades is admittedly painful at $20 per tube. This water-based formula will give you that gorgeous natural flush, applied easily using just your fingers, for a fraction of the cost. An eyebrow soap kit reviewers love as an alternative to name brands to help you sculpt your brows so they have the exact shape, volume, and texture you're going for — and keep them looking defined and fluffy throughout the day. When it comes to precision and hold, this stuff is *chef's kiss*. CeraVe's Retinol Serum in case you've been wanting to add a retinoid to your routine but have been scared off by potential flaking and redness — or the price tag of other brands, like Murad's $92 retinol serum. This uses encapsulated retinol designed to help prevent irritation while still resurfacing the skin to help reduce the appearance of acne scars, pores, and more. A bottle of Nyx matte setting spray so your carefully crafted makeup look can survive up to 16 hours of wear, through humidity, sweat, rain, and snow, without any smudging or melting. Reviewers have put it to the test and say it's a cheaper swap for Mac and Urban Decay's setting sprays. A 12-pack of soft microfiber makeup removing towels, a true hack for budget-savvy makeup wearers, since they can gently remove makeup using only water and be reused over and over! Perfect for travel and everyday use, they'll cost you just over $1 per cloth, which amounts to nearly 20 times cheaper than the infamous Makeup Eraser. Or Garnier Micellar Cleansing Water in case it's time for you to replace your beloved bottle of Bioderma. This has the same gentle but powerful makeup-removing abilities, lifting away even waterproof makeup along with dirt and excess oil (without totally stripping your skin of moisture). BestLand's high-performance matte lipsticks, which might be cheap (less than $2 each!) but bear results that feel ~expensive~ — especially since so many reviewers swear they're even *better* than those pricey name brand liquid lipsticks! This set is honestly a must-have if you love red and pink lip shades, since it contains six long-lasting staples that'll have you look fierce all day long. Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Concealer, a cult-favorite you can wield as part of your multistep daily routine *or* for quick touch-ups (without cakiness!) on days when you're not feeling a full face of makeup. Dark, puffy under-eye circles and redness are no match for it — and neither are the name-brand concealers, at this price. L'Oreal's illuminating Lumi Glotion if you're going for a dewy, no-makeup makeup look — this works beautifully as a lightweight foundation alternative or for adding a little glow on top of your makeup! And at under $15, it's a reviewer-fave swap for pricier options like Glossier Futuredew and Drunk Elephant's D-Bronzi Drops. Eve Hansen Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum reviewers compare to the coveted TNS Recovery Complex serum that's — prepare yourself — over $200 for a 1-ounce bottle. This budget-friendly alternative offers similar benefits: It deeply hydrates, reduces under-eye puffiness and dark circles, smooths fine lines, boosts overall hydration, and creates a radiant glow that's giving, "I just got a facial." Eva Naturals' vitamin C serum, which deserves a spot in your bag because it's basically a skincare superhero with powerful ingredients like retinol, hyaluronic acid, niacinimide, and salicylic acid all rolled into one. This stuff might just spell the end for any acne, rough skin, fine lines, clogged pores, and dark spots you have.
Daily Mail
23-05-2025
- Health
- Daily Mail
I'm a beauty editor - this affordable skincare brand is the secret to your best skin ever
As a skincare-obsessed journalist, I'm often asked what beauty brands are worth the hype, and it's a difficult question to answer. The truth is I don't play favourites – right now, I've got both the £12 Oat Cleansing Balm from The Inkey List and the £86 Brightening Serum from Tatcha in my rotation. That said, if I could only use one beauty brand for the rest of my life, I'd probably choose Beauty Pie. Recognised by industry insiders for its members-only model, the brand cuts out the middlemen and retailer markups so it can offer really good products in high-quality but minimalist packaging at factory prices. Members pay an annual fee of either £29 or £59 and get access to so-called 'members' prices'. For example, a moisturiser that you'd typically pay £100 for from a high-end brand, only costs £34 for members at Beauty Pie. If you're not a member, you can still buy products but at a more premium price, so it's worth checking out the website. Below, I've listed some of my all-time favourite Beauty Pie products. The best products from Beauty Pie £30 Shop Super Healthy Skin Featherlight UVA/UVB SPF 50 Sunscreen + Primer £25 Shop No skincare routine is complete without sunscreen (ideally with an SPF 50+). This one is non-comedogenic, meaning it won't clog pores, offers broad-spectrum protection, and doesn't feel claggy or heavy on the skin. Japanfusion Pure Transforming Cleanser £17 Shop An effective evening cleanse, this gel-to-oil-to-milk formula removes dirt, pollution and makeup without stripping the skin, and leaves it feeling clean and fresh. Double-Sided Organic Cleansing & Exfoliating Cloths £13 Shop Are you still using a traditional washcloth to remove your cleanser? Because these double-sided cloths (cotton and microfibre) are softer and gentler on the skin. Super Retinol + Vitamin C Night Renewal Moisturizer (1% Retinol Complex) £40 Shop Formulated with 1% encapsulated retinol to help reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and pigmentation, this is a great night-time moisturiser for those who have sensitive skin or are new to retinol. Awesome Bronze Gradual Self-Tanning Drops £21 Shop I'm not a big self-tan fan, but even my pale skin needs a little boost every now and then. I just mix a couple of these gradual self-tanning drops in with my moisturiser and night, and wake up with a natural glow. Superluminous Under-Eye Genius £24 Shop More of an under-eye brightener than a concealer, although you might find it covers up your dark circles, I like to pat it in with my ring fingertip. Wrap Star Tubing Mascara £17 Shop Le Smash Santal Eau De Parfum £60 Shop Reminiscent of Le Labo's bestselling Santal 33 (but not a dupe), it's a sexy scent with notes of creamy sandalwood, tonka bean, lavender and tea leaves that will earn you compliments. The Perfectly Puffy Silver Beauty Bag £40 Shop
Yahoo
23-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Run, Don't Walk — Everything From Jennifer Aniston-Loved Skincare Brand Tatcha Is 20% Off
Quick — other than being household names, what do Jennifer Aniston, Meghan Markle and Selena Gomez have in common? Their love of Tatcha skincare products, of course. The Japanese skincare brand has made the rounds in celebrity circles for its gentle, glow-boosting formulas. Now's your chance to get one step closer to achieving a celeb-like complexion without breaking the bank during Tatcha's 20% off sitewide sale! The main sale event is from May 15 to May 20, and shoppers can use code FRIEND25 to take 20% off sitewide. Below, we rounded up the best Tatcha products to stock up on — trust Us, your skin will thank Us. 1. Jennifer Aniston's Fave: When Aniston shared a behind-the-scenes shot of her glam setup at the Morning Show, fans were quick to spot Tatcha's iconic royal purple packaging and serum stick. This genius multitasker, which is packed with 80% squalane, melts into the skin to smooth fine lines and prep the face for makeup.2. Fit for a Royal: If there's ever a time to start exfoliating, let it be with the super gentle yet highly effective rice polish. "It just sort of foams on your face and gives you a really subtle exfoliation," Meghan Markle told Allure in 2017.3. Under $50: Drew Barrymore credits this dewy skin mist for being the perfect makeup refresher. "If you're stuck at work for several hours a day — and I tend to get stuck at work for several, several, several hours a day — this spray is a game-changer," she told Vogue. It's super hydrating, thanks to the addition of hyaluronic acid and red Aniston's $28 Hair Glossing Detangler Is on Amazon — It's a 'Beauty Trick in a Bottle' 4. Glow Like Gomez: One of the Tatcha's most iconic formulas is this lightweight plumping cream. Selena Gomez sung its praises in a Vogue interview, highlighting the fact that "it's so thick and yummy that you actually don't have to use that much."5. Double Duty: Bridgerton star Nicola Coughlan uses "two squirts" of this makeup-melting cleansing oil, revered for its "beautiful scent" that's "nice and aromatherapeutic for the end of the day." The cleansing oil effectively gets rid of oil, debris, waterproof makeup and stubborn sunscreen without stripping the skin.6. Summer Skin: Every skincare routine needs a high quality sunscreen. If you're looking for a mineral formula that's free of fragrance and delivers weightless protection all while keeping skin hydrated, consider the search over.7. Youthful Radiance: For immediate, long-lasting radiance, this peptide-infused serum is a true winner. It improves elasticity and texture, plumps fine lines and deeply hydrates the Klum Uses This $14 Makeup That Shoppers Over 50 Say Gives Them a 'Lit From Within' Glow Us Weekly and Yahoo have affiliate partnerships. We receive compensation when you click on a link and make a purchase. Learn more!
The Guardian
21-05-2025
- Health
- The Guardian
The best eye creams: 10 favourites for banishing bags, puffiness and fine lines
'The eyes are the window to the soul,' as the saying goes. Yet as well as communicating what we're thinking and feeling, they can also reveal clues about our age, lifestyle and health – presented as some of the most common eye concerns, including puffiness, dark circles, fine lines and wrinkles. The Guardian's journalism is independent. We will earn a commission if you buy something through an affiliate link. Learn more. The good news is that today's eye cream and serum formulations can go a long way to address those issues when used as part of a daily skincare routine. Many products do more than simply hydrate the area around the eyes; next-generation formulas work harder and smarter, combining science-backed ingredients with skincare tech. However, is it really necessary to invest in a dedicated eye cream, I hear you ask? In short: yes. Face serums can be too potent and moisturisers too heavy for use around the delicate eye area, and doing so could see you make your eye concerns worse. Best eye cream overall: Medik8 Crystal Retinal Ceramide Eye£42 at Cult Beauty Best budget eye cream: The Inkey List Caffeine eye cream£7.95 at Sephora Best eye serum for puffiness: Charlotte Tilbury Cryo-Recovery eye serum£47 at Sephora Best eye cream for dark circles: Tatcha The Brightening eye cream£64 at Space NK Best eye cream for fine lines: SkinCeuticals AGE Advanced Eye£105 at Look Fantastic I'm an experienced beauty journalist, and am regularly sent products to test. I've been evaluating and writing about skincare for 16 years – so, as you can imagine, I've tested a lot of eye creams and serums. Perhaps what qualifies me most to give a verdict on eye creams and serums is that I'm afflicted with the issues the formulas below are designed to address. With undereye bags and dark circles revealing themselves when I haven't had enough sleep and fine lines that began to appear as I hit my 40s, I'm the perfect candidate to put these products through their paces. Skincare experts agree on one thing: if you're looking for an effective eye cream or serum, pick one that is made up of hard-working, science-backed ingredients that target your particular concerns. Retinoids, for example, are key players for fine lines, wrinkles or discoloration and are best known for their anti-ageing benefits. Retinoids are vitamin A derivatives and are generally prescription-strength. Retinol and retinal are milder types of retinoid and tend to be available as off-the-shelf products. 'Retinoids prompt surface skin cells to turn over quickly, making way for fresh skin underneath,' says Dr Elizabeth Hawkes, oculoplastic surgeon and aesthetic doctor. 'It helps to slow the breakdown of collagen and thickens the deeper layer of skin to help prevent wrinkles.' If dark circles are a problem, then you need to start by identifying their cause. 'Dark circles may be caused by the appearance of blood vessels under the thin skin,' says Dr Miriam Adebibe, cosmetic and regenerative doctor. 'Working on collagen production and skin thickness can reduce them.' Shadows beneath the eyes can also be the result of an accumulation of melanin, which causes pigmentation. In this case, Adebibe and Hawkes agree that reaching for a formula with skin-brightening powerhouse vitamin C would be the best bet. It's a powerful antioxidant, which when paired with SPF can even protect the area from ageing in the first place. Puffiness is another common concern, and I've had great success with caffeine eye creams to reduce my undereye bags. By constricting blood vessels and decreasing inflammation, caffeine creates a temporary tightening effect, making the skin beneath the eyes look fresher. We shouldn't forget hydration, which is crucial for overall skin health. Consultant dermatologist Dr Alia Ahmed name-drops hyaluronic acid, glycerin and niacinamide as some of her favourite ingredients for maintaining moisture in this delicate area. To make the process as simple as possible, I turned to the formulas I have emptied, replaced or bought on repeat. When you test products for a living, it's a big deal for a beauty editor to finish and/or stick to a product. I tested (or re-tested) 25 eye creams, each for a minimum of two months, for this article. I used them daily in my morning and evening skincare routines, apart from the eye creams containing retinol (or retinoids): they are suitable only for PM use because the active can cause sensitivity and irritation when exposed to sunlight. Here are the 10 products that performed best in my tests. £42 at Cult BeautyFrom £42 at Medik8 Medik8 has a simple philosophy for a results-driven skincare routine: 'CSA', which stands for vitamin C and sunscreen by day, and vitamin A by night. Accordingly, the brand offers some of the best retinoid formulations on the market, including this advanced retinal eye cream. Why we love itForget retinol, it's all about retinal (with an 'a') these days – and this cream has plenty of it. An advanced retinoid, retinal is known to work 11 times faster than standard retinol, according to Medik8, while being more gentle on the skin. As such, you're less likely to experience some of the side effects associated with using retinoids, such as redness or peeling. I can testify that I haven't had any irritation while using this eye cream. Medik8's formula is available in three strengths (three, six and 10), but if you're new to this class of product, I advise starting with the three because low and slow wins the race with retinoids. Over time, it will work to speed up the skin's natural renewal process and boost collagen and elastin production. You'll see it plump crow's feet, erase discoloration and firm the eye area. It's a shame that … on a personal note, I didn't start using this from an earlier age. Size: 15mlUse: PMVegan: yesRecyclable packaging: yesActive ingredients: retinal (retinaldehyde), ceramides and hyaluronic acid £7.95 at Sephora£8 at Boots I've gone through two or three tubes of the Inkey List's effective and affordable Caffeine eye cream. My puffy eyes struggle to wake up without its star ingredient. Why we love itThis lightweight, non-greasy formula is easy to apply and feels refreshingly cool on the skin – even more so if you store it in the fridge as I do. It's fast absorbing, too; I give it only a minute or so to sink in before applying my concealer. You can almost feel it getting to work as you apply it, the caffeine stimulating blood flow and temporarily tightening skin. Other hard-working ingredients include hyaluronic acid to draw hydration to the area, squalane to keep it locked in, and a powerhouse peptide called Matrixyl 3000 that plumps fine lines with time. All in all, this effective cocktail of ingredients delivers plenty of bang for your buck. I've seen improvement after just a single use, with that improvement continuing when used more regularly as part of my day and night-time skincare routine. It's a shame that … it doesn't come with an eye-cooling applicator like the one included with Charlotte Tilbury's eye serum, but that might be an ask too far for its often-sub-£10 price. Size: 15mlUse: AM and PMVegan: noRecyclable packaging: yesActive ingredients: caffeine, peptide Matrixyl 3000 and squalane £47 at John Lewis£47 at Charlotte Tilbury Makeup artist Charlotte Tilbury's eponymous beauty brand is as much-loved for its skincare as its makeup, helping to propel the status of the brand. In my opinion, this eye serum, which was inspired by the cold therapy that she uses on models backstage at shows, is one of her best. Why we love itAs well as the benefits of caffeine, this serum comes loaded with cryotherapy-inspired ingredients that work wonders to de-puff skin by constricting blood vessels and reducing inflammation. The formula's effects are further enhanced by the cooling metal tip applicator with which you apply the product; it glides over the eye contour smoothly, without dragging the skin. It felt soothing and cool and appeared to instantly reduce the puffiness of the skin around my eye. So much so that I've taken to using the massaging applicator throughout the day too, especially after a long evening or a perimenopausal night of tossing and turning. It's a shame that … if the skin around your eyes is particularly dry like mine, then you'll likely need to use a more hydrating product overnight. Size: 15mlUse: AM and PMVegan: yesRecyclable packaging: noActive ingredients: caffeine, peptides and hyaluronic acid £64 at Tatcha£64 at Space NK Infused with brightening powerhouse vitamin C, I'm awarding this Tatcha launch the best eye cream for dark circles because it helps on two fronts. As well as guarding against the daily aggressors that cause ageing, neutralising free radicals and protecting the skin against the sun, it also repairs damage already present, brightening the skin and boosting collagen production for firmer, plumper skin. Why we love itIt perked up my tired-looking eyes instantly and over time. The instant gratification is thanks to the inclusion of light-reflecting pigments that create the illusion of brighter eyes. However, the real magic happens because of the hefty dose of vitamin C, which releases slowly over time without irritating the delicate area. Evidence shows that vitamin C may help brighten skin, and using this cream twice a day saw the area around my eyes looking more refreshed and radiant after just a week. With continued use, skin felt firmer and fine lines looked reduced after about a month. It's a shame that … you have to be realistic with your expectations; while such products can improve the condition of skin, they can't completely eradicate dark circles. Use: AM and PMSize: 15mlVegan: noRecyclable packaging: noActive ingredients: vitamin C, niacinamide and antioxidants £105 at Look Fantastic£105 at SkinCeuticals The reason top dermatologists often line their glass cabinets with this luxe beauty brand is that it gives professional-grade results. More recently, this corrective eye cream has reaffirmed that there's far more to SkinCeuticals' lineup than just its viral C E Ferulic vitamin C serum (although there's no denying it's worth its hype). Why we love itAs soon as I applied this silky cream to the skin, optical diffusers flooded my undereye area in light to bring instant radiance and make my dark circles appear less noticeable. It reduces puffiness, too, thanks to its dose of caffeine. However, what elevates this eye cream is its ability to smooth the look of fine lines and address firmness when used longer term. It achieves this by targeting advanced glycation end products (or AGEs, hence the product's name) with SkinCeuticals' patented active proxylane. AGEs build up in our skin as we get older, or as a result of poor diet and lifestyle, degrading collagen and elastin. It's a shame that … it has such a hefty price, though its multitasking benefits are worth the splurge – so think of it as an investment. Size: 15mlUse: AM and PMVegan: noRecyclable packaging: yesActive ingredients: proxylane (a patented active), peptides and caffeine Sign up to The Filter Get the best shopping advice from the Filter team straight to your inbox. The Guardian's journalism is independent. We will earn a commission if you buy something through an affiliate link. after newsletter promotion From £30 at John LewisFrom £30 at Kiehl's Best for: moisturising A cult beauty product contender, you'll often find beauty editors raving about Kiehl's eye treatment, with even professional makeup artists praising it as an eye primer (which I can vouch for). With its rich and creamy texture, I'm only here to add to its rave reviews; it's one of the most hydrating eye creams I've ever tested. The not-so-secret star ingredient is, of course, avocado oil. Along with shea butter, it nourishes and softens the eye area to provide all-day hydration, while beta-carotene provides antioxidant protection. It's had a little upgrade, and now includes caffeine, which will work to reduce puffiness. The results? The skin around my eyes is instantly smoother and less tired-looking. It didn't make the final cut because … it may be too rich for some, especially if you're prone to milia (small white cysts). Use: AM and PM; size: 14ml; vegan: no; recyclable packaging: yes; active ingredients: caffeine, antioxidants and avocado oil £92 at Murad£92 at Sephora Best for: mature skin ReSculpt eye cream is formulated to target more advanced signs of ageing (think deep lines, wrinkles and sagging eyelids) and uses retinal to improve the condition of skin more quickly, without irritation. It shows: after just a week's use, my undereye area felt revitalised and much smoother. Best results are noticeable after about a month, when lines start to look less visible and the brow bone looks lifted for a more youthful, well-rested eye area. It didn't make the final cut because … it's more than double the price of Medik8's retinal eye cream. However, if you're looking specifically for lifting benefits, it's worth it. Use: PM; size: 15ml; vegan: yes; recyclable packaging: yes; active ingredients: retinal, gentian root extract and glycerin £40 at Cult Beauty£20.90 at Amazon Best for: instant but temporary results If you see the viral before-and-after videos on TikTok showing the dramatic results after use, you'll want to get your hands on PTR's eye cream ASAP – it's what convinced me to try it. Often termed 'botox in a bottle', I was sceptical about its performance. However, just seconds after applying, it started to smooth, firm and lift the eye area; after minutes, it had reduced the look of lines and puffiness. I was impressed! The effect is down to Firm-A-Tite, a blend of skin tighteners that you can feel working their magic. I found that achieving the best results took trial and error; use it sparingly to avoid any residue, and remain expressionless while it dries (this is the hard bit). You also must wait until it's fully dry before applying makeup. It didn't make the final cut because … its results are temporary, which in my eyes makes it feel more like makeup than skincare. Use: when needed; size: 30ml; vegan: no; recyclable packaging: yes; active ingredients: Firm-A-Tite and peptides £23 at Boots£16.99 at Amazon Best for: value Promising to pack more of an anti-ageing punch than its popular counterpart (CeraVe's Eye Repair Cream), I couldn't wait to get my hands on this new product from the purse-friendly skincare brand. With an ingredient list including hyaluronic acid and niacinamide for hydration, caffeine for de-puffing, ceramides for skin-barrier strengthening and skin-plumping peptides, it didn't disappoint. The silky, balmy texture of this cream proved instantly refreshing on application, de-puffing and smoothing my tired morning eyes, ready for makeup, for which it makes a great base. It tackles fine lines over time when used twice a day, but for more dramatic results, you'd be better opting for a formula containing retinoids. It didn't make the final cut because … personally, I didn't see enough rejuvenation of the eye area with continued use. Use: AM and PM; size: 15ml; vegan: no; recyclable packaging: yes; active ingredients: hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, ceramides and peptides £14.60 at Notino£17 at Look Fantastic Best for: Eczema Eyelid eczema (or eyelid dermatitis) is commonly caused by allergens and irritants – not only those you might apply to your skin, but even your nail polish or jewellery could be to blame. If you're suffering, as I have recently, then go back to basics with this soothing, skin-repairing formula that also removes makeup well. This ceramide-rich cream instantly calmed irritation and soothed discomfort, and after a few days of use, I saw redness reduce, and crepey, scaly skin return to its former smooth feel. It didn't make the final cut because … it's not comparable with the other eye creams and is only for very dry and stressed-out skin. Use: AM and PM; size: 100ml; vegan: no; recyclable packaging: yes; active ingredients: hyaluronic acid, glycerin and ceramides The most important thing to remember when applying product to the eye area is to be gentle. The best way to achieve this is using your ring finger; it's the weakest digit, so it prevents you from applying too much pressure. In terms of how much eye cream to use, think less is more. A pea-sized blob should be enough to cover both eyes. Apply by patting the cream or serum into skin, working from the inner to the outer corners of your eyes and along the orbital bone, or eye socket. If you're looking extra puffy, 'Start with 10-20 press pats on your lymph nodes in front of your ears (you will be able to feel the slight dip after the bone and before the cartilage) and apply your cream downwards,' says clinical facialist Kate Kerr. The general rule is to apply your skincare from the thinnest to the thickest in consistency. This is to avoid the larger molecules of thicker formulas blocking the smaller ones of lighter products and preventing them from being absorbed into the skin. I always apply my eye cream before my richer moisturiser for this reason. 'During the day, it's about prevention and protection. This is where your antioxidant-rich serums and sunscreens come in, helping to fight pollution and damaging oxidisation, as well as protecting the skin from the damaging effects of light,' says Kerr. 'Come night-time, it's about correction and stimulation. Use targeted serums focusing on your individual skincare needs, such as plumping or reducing dark circles.' Sabine Wiesel is a freelance beauty editor. Having reviewed skincare products for more than 16 years, she should have the smoothest and brightest eyes in the business. Alas, good old genetics and a misspent youth in the sun without SPF make her tired-looking eyes the ideal testing area for eye creams and serums
