I do not want to look like glass.

And yet! There are 348 emails in my inbox telling me I should. There are 402,000 Instagram posts suggesting the same. There are over one billion Google search results for “glass skin,” a mélange of articles and blog posts and product pages, all offering advice on how to make my skin look less like skin and more like an amorphous solid. 

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How To Completely Replace Your Human Skin With Better, Dewier Dolphin Skin!

OK, fine, these headlines are made up—but the energy behind them isn’t. The pursuit of glass skin really is this ridiculous and unrealistic. To embrace glass as the aesthetic goal is to abandon (and worse, injure) the skin’s inherent functions.

There is a reason skin does not look like glass.

The aesthetically inclined have been glorifying glass skin for a while, since 2017 at least—long enough that the K-beauty creation is no longer a beauty trend but a beauty standard. Like all beauty standards, glass skin is a physical impossibility, and as such, the path to Windexed perfection is paved with products that always need to be repurchased. (How convenient for capitalism!) It’s unending. It’s addicting. It burrows into the brain. It inspires that specific kind of obsession that comes with coveting the unattainable. 

I gave into this obsession for a time. I lamented the fact that my textured, sensitive skin would never look like glass. Or a glazed donut, or a seal, or a steamed dumpling, or Saran Wrap or a peeled egg. Insert shiny-skin catchphrase here. 

Then I realized: It’s a good thing that glass skin is unattainable IRL (honestly, have you ever seen glass skin outside of social media?), because all the features I’d need to erase in order to get that smooth, glassy glow literally exist to protect me.

Like pores! Pores are outgoing channels for sebum and sweat, the skin’s natural highlighter-slash-moisturizer and the body’s temperature regulator-slash-detoxifier, respectively. You cannot shrink your pores and you wouldn’t want to. Without pores, or with too-small pores, you would overheat and/or explode. 

And dead skin cells! Heads up: They aren’t dead. They serve an important biological purpose as part of the all-important skin barrier. Dead skin cells also store NMFs, or Natural Moisturizing Factors—basically, they’re the skin’s very own hydration station. The young, fresh skin cells underneath (you know, the ones you expose in an effort to look like glass) don’t do that. That’s why over-exfoliation can lead to dry, flaky skin. 

And pimples! I’ve come to think of pimples as communications from my body, alerting me to what it needs. Cysts on my jawline? Time to take a hard look at my hormones. Closed comedones? My skin’s not into my product lineup. Inflamed cheeks? My body might be begging for a vegetable instead of another everything bagel with cream cheese. Even if I could Zamboni the blemishes away, I wouldn’t. They’re sharing need-to-know information, people!

Really, any type of texture is a communication from within—even the glass look itself. “A waxy, glassy, shiny forehead is incorrectly associated with a ‘glow,’ which it is not,” Dr. Barbara Sturm, the founder of the skincare line of the same name, once told me. “It is the sign of injury.” Seriously: Skin that looks like glass is skin that’s lost its essential skin-ness, its humanness, its health. If you can see your reflection in your complexion, it’s probably trying to tell you something—like, “Look at what you’re doing to me!!!” or perhaps, “Please stop.”

If glass skin is both unattainable and unadvisable, why do we want it? 

Well, for one, it’s a natural progression of unnatural beauty standards. It’s the age-old pressure to look like a Barbie doll, updated for modern times: We’ve simply swapped plastic for glass (so eco-friendly!) and the male gaze for self-objectification (attempting to emulate an inanimate object is self-objectification in the most basic sense of the word). 

But I also think our phones and laptops and televisions are to blame. In an increasingly virtual world, everything we see is behind a shiny glass screen—and as glass is wont to do, it creates a barrier. It places you on the outside, peering in at all the perfect people. Nevermind that the people are actually pixels. It’s human nature to want to join them, to want to be beautiful, to do almost anything to belong. I feel it, too.

If I’m being honest, when I say “I don’t want to look like glass,” what I mean is, “I wish I didn’t want to look like glass.” 

I wish I didn’t internalize this impossible standard. I wish I didn’t have to justify the existence of my pores and pimples. I wish I didn’t let the state of my skin determine my sense of self-worth. I wish I didn’t doubt it, just a little bit, when my boyfriend tells me I’m beautiful. I wish I didn’t feel compelled to convince us all that it’s OK to let our skin be skin, but here I am.

Skin is skin.

It is not glass, and it is not supposed to be.

It always has texture and pores, and it sometimes has acne and oil slicks and inflammation. 

It’s alive, it’s dynamic, it’s divinely designed, and it’s talking to you.

Do you really want to silence it for the sake of looking like a transparent shard of molten sand?

The post Am I The Only One Who Doesn’t Want To Look Like Glass? appeared first on Repeller.

Have you ever used the “touch up my appearance” filter on Zoom? I didn’t know it existed until a month ago, which I guess makes sense since I didn’t know Zoom existed until a month ago, but it was a source of immediate fascination. All you have to do is check a box in Zoom’s system preferences, and your face is transformed from “just your face” to “your face in heaven”–i.e. lit and blurred to perfection, as if you were standing in the presence of a holy being.

I don’t keep the box permanently checked (TBH, I’m afraid I’ll forget what my real face looks like), but I’m not immune to the allure of its magic-adjacent effects. So, when I was conversing with an MR Thoughtline subscriber who casually mentioned she had found the beauty product equivalent of the Zoom “touch up my appearance” filter, I sat up straight at my makeshift desk. According to Zoom, the “touch up my appearance” filter “smooths out the skin tone on your face, to present a more polished-looking appearance.” Apparently Ilia’s Super Serum Skin Tint SPF 40 does the exact same thing–but in real life.

“It’s like a tinted moisturizer but has squalane and niacinimide and hyaluronic acid and SPF!!!!” my new beauty advisor gushed. “It’s makeup that doubles as skincare. And you don’t need to do anything else to your face for it to look good–it’s like you’ve done a whole routine, but it’s only one product, and it comes in 18 shades.”

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I was sold at “squalane”—which, for the uninitiated, is a natural emollient that locks moisture into your skin. So I requested a sample and have worn it every day for a week. Let me state for the record: This stuff is BETTER than the Zoom filter. It doesn’t make you look like you’re standing in the presence of a holy being, it makes you look like you are a holy being–or at the very least like you swallowed a flashlight. I’ve never experienced such an instant uptick in glow, as if I’ve just come back from a spa instead of just coming back from my second trip to the pantry for snacks. It’s a band-aid for lack of Vitamin D if there ever was one (the fact that it contains SPF at a time I’ve never needed sun protection less is an irony that will hopefully pay off later).

My only qualm with it is the consistency, which is pretty thick (I usually opt for sheer coverage when I wear makeup), but it melts into my skin like–yes–a #stickofbutter, so there’s none of the terrible cakey texture that often comes with full-coverage foundations. The product becomes part of my skin instead of sitting on it, if that makes sense?? Anyways, this stuff is great. I’m looking forward to wearing it for more auspicious occasions than virtual work meetings and dinner with my immediate family, but in the meantime it’s the ideal pick-me-up for my perpetually pajama-clad state of existence.

The post I Heard About It on Thoughtline: A Serum That Makes Your Skin Look… Perfect appeared first on Repeller.

But when I shop for food, I shop with my eyes. It’s the colors! Let me tell you, a farmers market table piled high with a sunset of carrots, fat tomatoes, apples with splotchy red tans where the light hit them longest…. It’s a visual feast that gives me the same breathless feeling I get staring at a Northern Renaissance still life, except an artist didn’t mix those colors from greasy paints in tubes, THE GROUND made them. I covet my farmers market haul as much as I do the latest season of candy-hued Dior 5 Couleurs eyeshadow palettes. And letting myself indulge in the aesthetics of food has inadvertently made me a healthier eater and a better chef, too, because in chasing beautiful colors, I’m also A) shopping the freshest local products and B) prioritizing fruits and veggies over starchy fried foods. Speaking of beige alternatives, have you ever seen a head of purple cauliflower? It was so beautiful I had to own it immediately. Which is all to say: I often leave with too many fruits (I’ve taken to baking them into simple cakes once they go soft) and newly in-season vegetables I have no idea how to cook. By season’s end, I will.

Now that we’re well into September, the farmers market is being repainted in swaths of new colors I’ll have to teach myself to work with, culinarily speaking. But I’ve also been itching to actually paint, on my face specifically, with juicy, saturated makeup that approximates these hues. I reached out to the folks at Grow NYC’s Union Square Greenmarket, and their lovely publicity coordinator Brian walked me through what’s returning to farm stands this month. Of course, the colors didn’t disappoint. 

Preface: Before I did anything, I prepped my face with Ilia’s Serum Foundation, patted in with a beauty sponge. I spot-concealed any red spots, and then added warmth back into the tops of my cheekbones with Dr. Hauschka’s liquid bronzer. I brushed my face weeds, known in some circles as eyebrows, with Glossier Boy Brow in Clear, just to give them some shape but forewent mascara to let the colors shine. Then I swiped on Tower 28’s clear Lip Jelly, which looks like a gloss but feels like a moisturizing oil. I’ve taken to wearing it indoors for a fun alternative to balm. 

ILIA

True Skin Serum Foundation

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Dr. Hauschka

Translucent Bronzing Tint

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Glossier

Boy Brow

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Tower 28 Beauty

ShineOn Lip Jelly

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Now, onto the main course!

Cranberry Beans from Lucky Dog Organic

Once you take them out of their colorful shells, cranberry beans are about the same size as pinto beans, with a milder flavor. If you’re cooking them, you should start with a simmer, but if you’re using them as makeup inspiration, the first thing you’ll need is a green eyeliner. I used Dior’s Diorshow Pro Liner in 456 to block out small dashes from my lashline to just above the crease of my eye. (I wanted the texture to show when my eyes were open, too.) Next I did the same thing with Danessa Myricks’ matte Colorfix cream in Valentine, a medium-toned pink, which I packed onto a small brush. This stuff is pigmented—a little goes a long way. Finally, I used Colorfix in Bloom, which is a bit darker and brighter, to fill in the gaps between my eyelid sprinkles. Also using Bloom, I drew two flicks—one in the outer corners of my eyes, and one in the inner corners—to reference the pods’ pointed ends. 

Dior

Diorshow Pro-Liner Waterproof Bevel-Tip Eyeliner

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Danessa Myricks Beauty

Colorfix 24-Hour Cream Color Matte

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Assorted Winter Squash from Samascott Orchards

I loved the way each squash section sort of echoed the shape of my eye, so to emphasize the similarity, I outlined my lid with Glossier Colorslide eyeliner in Nectar. I find eyeliner pencils easier to wield than liquid, but it also helps to sharpen the tips to a very fine point, lightly softening the pigment over the flame of a lighter. Once I had the shape right, I made a gradient of green and orange on top with Colorslide in Stable Relationship and Jumbo—having the yellow underneath helped the two colors blend together more easily, and I could also be more confident about the shape as I added them in. If you want, you can totally stop there! It’ll look unexpected yet subtle enough to wear to your grandma’s. But to really channel the winter squash, I filled in my shape with C’est Moi’s Visionary Makeup Crayon in Dove, a super creamy, chubby pencil just as versatile as squash itself. Roast it? Puree it? Zoodle it? The world is your sheet pan!

Glossier

Colorslide Technogel Eye Pencil

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Glossier

Colorslide Technogel Eye Pencil

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Glossier

Colorslide Technogel Eye Pencil

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C’est Moi

Visionary Makeup Crayon

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Einset and Vanessa Grapes from Phillips Farm

Grapes are purple. Easy enough, right? Wrong! Because when you really look at ’em, that oh-so-thin skin on a grape ranges from golden yellow to crisp red to wine to deep violet. Starting with a few of Rituel de Fille’s Color Nectar Pigment Balms (Wasp, Bloodflower, and Glasswing), I buffed a gradient of yellow to purple from my right eye to my left eye. You can do this with your fingers, but I found it easier to use a small brush. Once I got to my left eye, I found I wanted a darker purple to really seal the deal—I picked up Danessa Myricks’ Colorfix in Tribe and buffed that into the outer corner towards the center of my eye. Finally, I drew a thin line of green with the Dior eyeliner underneath my lower lashline and popped a coat of Flesh eye gloss on top to further blend the shades and add some juicy shine. 

Rituel de Fille

Color Nectar Pigment Balm in Wasp

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Rituel de Fille

Color Nectar Pigment Balm in Bloodflower

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Rituel de Fille

Color Nectar Pigment Balm in Glasswing

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Flesh Beauty

Fleshpot Eye & Cheek Gloss

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Italian Plums from Toigo Orchards

Italian plums are like regular plums, but they’re smaller, sweeter, and more oblong. Their insides are juuuuicy, but the outsides are… sort of powdery. To get a similar look on my eyes, I started with a coat of Tribe from my lashline to my crease, and pulled it down to my lashline, too. Using a pointed Fenty brush, I smoothed over the outer edges to soften the line without blending it up or out—I wanted to maintain some roundness. After letting that set for a moment, I mixed Life on Mars and Gossamer powder eyeshadows from the Claropsyche Psyche’s Box palette and packed it onto a fluffy brush. I tapped that mixture on gently to mimic the plums’ chalky skin. I was surprised by how wearable this look was—dare I say hot? Between this eye and this Italian plum cake, you’ll bring a lot to both literal and proverbial tables.

Fenty Beauty

Precise Definition Brush 220

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Claropsyche

Psyche’s Box Saturated Matte Color Palette

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The post I Put Fall Produce on My Face, for Beauty appeared first on Repeller.

I eat it right up. I usually tab out about 15 products while reading, all while imagining what my life would be like with a $250 serum. Would I get the girl? Would I stop seeking unnecessary validation from my friends that I’m worthy of their friendship? And then I close the tab, because… who am I kidding? I know myself, and at my core, I am the kind of person who will never—ever—maintain a skincare routine. I can barely remember to floss once a week or shave my armpits in the shower, let alone complete a multi-step ritual on my face two times a day. 

Now, I know some people may be thinking “That’s skin privilege”—I understand how the above can sound. But what you may not know is: My skin is not great! I have discoloration, dryness, acne scars, hormonal acne, a crop of cute little white heads between my chin and my lip. And I am excessively lazy. I am not built for a life of diligence.

And yet, here I am, writing an article about how I’d still like to cobble together some kind of routine. A minimalist routine! I decided to ask three skincare geniuses for their advice on a routine for the laziest among us. What are 2-3 skincare products that are absolutely imperative? What’s the redux of Skincare for Dummies? My tabs are open and I’m contemplating the spend—let me know who convinces you to finally do the thing in the comments.

Sable Yong

Self-labeled Freelance Narcissologist, Me-labeled Skincare Doula

I asked Sable because, well, duh. If anyone’s going to convince me to maybe bite the bullet, it’s the woman whose skin is actually glowing from wherever her apartment is in the five boroughs right through my window. I get a spidey sense everytime she posts a photo because her skin is simply that good. Here, she threw her hat in the ring with these three products:

1. HoliFrog Superior Omega Nutritive Gel Wash

“An excellent face cleanser will do a lot of legwork for your skincare routine because it actually properly cleanses your skin without stripping it of needed moisture. I love this as an all-around, do-it-all cleanser—it’s low on sulfates (so it won’t overstrain skin) and high on good skincare ingredients like omega fatty acids, probiotics, and antioxidants (so it can also contribute, albeit in a small way, to getting nutrients in there). I like how my skin feels CLEAN after using this but never tight.” 

HoliFrog

Superior Omega Nutritive Gel Wash

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2. CosRx AHA BHA Vitamin C Daily Toner

“I was torn between recommending a vitamin C serum or a gentle exfoliating toner, and lo and behold, I gotchu a product that does BOTH. I love CosRx’s formulations for being simple, effective, and affordable. I’d use this once a day, probably in the evening, given its potentially sun-sensitizing ingredients. This will help keep your pores cleared of excess sebum to thwart breakouts, and the exfoliants and Vitamin C will help brighten and even out overall skin tone. BAM. SORTED.”

Cosrx

AHA BHA Vitamin C Daily Toner

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3. Supergoop Superscreen Daily Moisturizer SPF 40

“You gotta wear sunscreen every day, no matter what, OK? Actually, you know what, if you live in some windowless bunker and never go outside, you don’t, but really only then. This one is one of the few (maybe only, to my knowledge) moisturizers with SPF that pulls its weight on both sides. SPF 40—great. That’s ample protection for regular-degular, everyday activities. The moisturizer is so nice tho! It’s light and fluffy but super hydrating and leaves a dewy sheen on your face. Some may say too dewy, and I say, “What’s that?” That’s the whole POINT of moisturizer… moisture.”

(If you do find this too heavy/dewy though, Purito’s Centella Green Level Safe Sun SPF 50 is HEAVENLY—calming and moisturizing and lightweight. Magic.) 

Supergoop!

Superscreen Daily Moisturizer SPF 40

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Purito

Centella Green Level Safe Sun SPF 50

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Siraad Dirshe

Social Content Guru, Skincare Savante

I know Siraad from the gospel that is her You Look Moist, as well as her radiant selfie game and her fabulous content at Flamingo. I felt *lucky* when I reached out to her, and she met me with enthusiasm, cutting down her slather count to a few key products:

“Over the last few years, I’ve proudly gotten my skincare routine down from about 12 steps (I was a maximalist, for sure) to about three steps. I’m not sure if it’s age—I’m in my thirties—or just wanting to spend less time, and money, on skincare products. 

1. Versed Wash It Out Gel Cleanser

“No matter how you slice it, you’ve got to cleanse your face. It’s just a step that can’t be skipped (I tried for a week, and it was gross). For the last year, I’ve been using one from Versed. I’m usually hesitant to use gel cleansers and opt for cream ones since my skin is so dry, but this one doesn’t dry out my skin and does a pretty good job of breaking down makeup.”

Versed

Wash It Out Gel Cleanser

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2. Bioderma Sensibia H2O

“One thing I haven’t given up from my double-digit skincare days is double cleansing. I don’t care how much face wash I use or what kind it is—there’s always some type of residue or makeup left behind. Lately, I’ve been really into micellar water and love Bioderma. I know this doesn’t sound like an absolutely necessary step, but when I skip it my skin literally doesn’t feel or look the same.”

Bioderma

Micellar Cleansing Water and Makeup Removing Solution

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3. Trader Joe’s 100% Organic Argan Oil

“I love, love, love a good oil! For me, I can use it AM or PM, and there’s no such thing as ‘too much.’ Seriously. What I love most is that a little truly goes a long way, and there are so many affordable oils that you can get at Whole Foods or Trader Joe’s. I personally love the vitamin E or argan oil from Trader Joe’s and will either apply directly on my skin or drop into a sunscreen or moisturizer to make it more hydrating.”

Trader Joe’s

Argan Oil

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Trader Joe’s

Vitamin E Oil

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Jessica DeFino Yarborough

The Green, Clean Beauty Machine

I asked Jessica to share her prowess because I knew her angle would be different. Her knowledge of natural, holistic, and sustainable skincare is vast. So vast, in fact, that she’s been published all over the place! And is currently working on her first book!

“Good news: Your skin doesn’t want or need more than two to three products. Experts agree that ‘10-step skincare’ is possibly the worst thing to happen to acid mantles everywhere. (Other than, perhaps, the petroleum industry, which has compromised our skin barriers with airborne pollution particles since 1859. Say it with me: Stopping climate change counts as skincare. Anyway!)

After years of reporting on the beauty industry and learning about the inherent wonders of the skin—did you know it has built-in mechanisms to self-cleanse, self-moisturize, self-exfoliate, and self-heal?!—and the issues with conventional products, I narrowed my own routine down to just three simple, skin-supportive ingredients. My face, typically dry and acne-prone like yours, is very pleased.”

1. Flora Health Manuka Honey UMF 15+ 

“Pure, food-grade manuka honey is my everything. I use it as an evening cleanser (apply to damp skin, massage in for a minute, rinse off), a face mask (apply to dry skin, leave on for 30 minutes, rinse off), and a spot treatment (dab on active breakouts and leave for as long as you want). It truly does it all: Manuka has antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties! It’s full of barrier-boosting omega fatty acids! It’s a humectant that attracts water molecules! It soothes, moisturizes, heals! You can also eat it!! Manuka is so magical that there’s an entire industry dedicated to counterfeiting it. To make sure you’re getting the real thing, look for honey that’s sourced from New Zealand—the only place in the world where manuka bushes grow wild—with a Unique Manuka Factor (UMF) rating of at least 15. “

Flora Health

Manuka Honey UMF 15+

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2. Cortas Rose Water

“Rose water consists of just two mild ingredients—roses and water—making it super gentle on the skin. And yet, a single spritz of the stuff contains an almost mind-blowing amount of power. Rose water is both anti-inflammatory and antibacterial, and has roughly the same pH level as the skin. Translation: It can balance an out-of-whack acid mantle, calm any redness or irritation, help heal breakouts, and hydrate. I DIY my own rose water spray using food-grade Cortas Rose Water (again, you can eat it!). Just mix two thirds distilled water with one third rose water in a spray bottle, and use it as a morning cleanser, toner, or face mist.”

Cortas

Rose Water

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3. Mountain Rose Herbs Jojoba Oil

“The most effective moisturizer in the world is human sebum—AKA, the body’s built-in moisturizer—and since your skin is dry, you’re probably not producing enough of your own. That’s where jojoba oil comes in. It’s a freaking 97 percent chemical match to sebum, so dry skin welcomes it with open arms (open pores?) and soaks it up like that. Jojoba is also rich in vitamin E, an antioxidant that protects skin from pollution; vitamin B, a complex that helps promote healing; and omega fatty acids, essential compounds that support the skin barrier. To use it as a moisturizer, apply a few drops to damp skin. The damp part is important!! Since moisturizer is a mix of water and oil (seriously, check the ingredient list of any moisturizer you own), massaging jojoba oil onto slightly wet skin is akin to whipping up a DIY moisturizer. Right on your face.”

Mountain Rose Herbs

Jojoba Oil

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The post I Asked 3 Beauty Experts to Help Me Create a Minimalist Skincare Routine appeared first on Repeller.

How would you describe your skin?

Very, VERY dry. I’ve had eczema all my life, so that plays a factor as well. While my skin isn’t sensitive to active ingredients, it’s easily damaged by changing environmental conditions, which can produce irritated patches and flakiness. My college-age trials and tribulations with harsh drugstore cleansers and astringents, combined with my discovery of K-Beauty a few years back, guided me to an intentional and well-researched routine centered on moisture-oriented products.    

How would you describe your skincare approach in general?

I am extremely loyal to products I know work with my skin. The core of my approach is keeping the right combination of hydrating and active elements in my rotation. Now that I think about it, my routine has a decent amount of steps. One bright spot of quarantine is that it’s created space for me to do my full routine most nights of the week, without it feeling scrambled. 

Which skincare products are integral to your routine for achieving your ideal, glowing, well-moisturized complexion, and how/when do you use each of them?

My cleanser needs to be hydrating. I’m happily settled with CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser in warmer months. If I’m wearing makeup, I’ll first use Farmacy Green Clean Cleansing Balm or a swipe of Bioderma Sensibio Micellar Water. Soon, I’ll switch over to my winter cleanser, One Love Organics B Enzyme Cleansing Oil, for cooler days when my skin really struggles to retain moisture. 

CeraVe

Hydrating Facial Cleanser

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Farmacy

Green Clean Makeup Removing Cleansing Balm

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Bioderma

Micellar Cleansing Water and Makeup Removing Solution

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One Love Organics

Vitamin B Enzyme Cleansing Oil + Makeup Remover

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I use a hydrating toner to begin layering moisture into my skin. A gentle, alcohol-free toner is a critical step—I’m loyal to Son & Park Beauty Water. A bottle lasts forever, and it’s kind to my skin year round.  

Son & Park

Beauty Water

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After toning, I’ll immediately pat a few pumps of Cosrx Hyaluronic Acid Power Essence into my skin while it’s still damp. I follow up with a liberal layer of Origins Mega-Mushroom Relief Lotion, applied with my hands instead of cotton for extra absorption. I really love this product—it cushions my skin and prepares it to receive serums and treatments with active ingredients.   

Cosrx

Hyaluronic Acid Hydra Power Essence

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Origins

Mega-Mushroom Relief Lotion

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I prefer to use only one serum in a given routine, so it needs to pack a punch. I alternate between Sunday Riley’s Good Genes Lactic Acid Treatment and Farmacy’s Honeymoon Glow AHA Serum. Good Genes is the priciest product on my shelf—that doesn’t always mean it works well, but this always leaves my skin with a particular plumpness and elasticity to it the morning after use. After letting my serum sink in, I’ll use a small amount of Drunk Elephant’s A-Passioni Retinol Cream. I only do this step twice a week, but I’ll forever swear by the powers of retinol to treat and prevent acne with consistent use. 

Sunday Riley

Good Genes Lactic Acid Treatment

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Farmacy

Honeymoon Glow AHA Serum

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Drunk Elephant

A-Passioni Retinol Cream

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I then apply essence products to lock in moisture ahead of thicker ceramides. My one-two punch is Fresh Kombucha Antioxidant Essence, patted into my skin, followed by a few pumps of Cosrx Snail Mucin Power Essence. I wouldn’t hesitate to bring snail mucin to a desert island—it’s that effective and essential. Kombucha is also a powerhouse ingredient for instant brightening. 

Fresh

Kombucha Antioxidant Facial Treatment Essence

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Cosrx

Snail Mucin Power Essence

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Thicker lotions with ceramides and facial oils are key to my penultimate stage. For moisturizer, Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentré layers beautifully and is a cooling treat if I have any irritation. I’ll finish up with an oil patted into my skin. My go-tos are Julep Rosehip Seed Oil and The Ordinary Squalane Oil. I started applying my oil down my décolletage as a way to specifically treat that area. 

Embryolisse

Lait-Crème Concentré

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Julep

Rosehip Seed Facial Oil

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The Ordinary

Squalane Oil

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I’ll finish up with Laneige’s Lip Sleeping Mask for overnight replenishment. If my skin needs additional moisture, I’ll layer in a sleeping mask—Laneige’s Water Sleeping Mask and Youth to the People’s Superberry Dream Mask are my favorites, depending on the season. 

Laneige

Lip Sleeping Mask

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Laneige

Water Sleeping Mask

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Youth To The People

Superberry Hydrate + Glow Dream Mask

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My morning routine has a few adjustments. I skip cleanser—it feels extraneous. For my morning serum, I alternate between FEMMUE Lumière Vital C Serum and Caudalie Vinoperfect Anti Dark Spot Serum. Vitamin C is a key ingredient for brightening and pore control, and grape sap extract has worked really well with my skin to treat dark spots and other discolorations. For moisturizer, I swap Embryolisse with CeraVe Daily Moisturizing Lotion, which provides a surprisingly deep level of hydration for how airy it is. I’ll top everything off with an SPF: I’ve been enjoying Cosrx’s Aloe Soothing Sun Cream. 

FEMMUE

Lumière Vital C Serum

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Caudalie

Vinoperfect Anti Dark Spot Serum

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CeraVe

Daily Moisturizing Lotion

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Cosrx

Aloe Soothing Sun Cream

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What about makeup products?

I’m not really into makeup! I’ve spent so much time wishing for nothing more than to feel comfortable barefaced. I also prefer to spend my beauty budget replacing skincare products.  

When I do feel like wearing makeup, I rely on a handful of things that are subtle and highlight my features. I’ve used NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer forever for my under-eye area and to manage any blemishes or discoloration. I adore all colors of Glossier Cloud Paint cream blush. Any drugstore eyebrow gel will suffice to add structure to my brows, and a berry-colored lip oil is a favorite finishing touch. Since quarantine, I really only use the lip oil for a wash of color. I rarely wear eye makeup, but I used to live for applying a nice, long cat-eye with Stila’s Liquid Eyeliner, and I still like that look. 

NARS

Radiant Creamy Concealer

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Glossier

Cloud Paint Cream Blush

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ColourPop

Brow Gel

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Clarins

Berry Lip Oil

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Stila

Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner

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What’s the cheapest product you use regularly and love? 

Aquaphor Healing Ointment as lip balm!!! I love stockpiling the 2 oz. sizes to scatter in every corner of my apartment, handbag, and jacket pocket. Also, if I may pick two, Muji Cut Cotton Squares are the crème de la crème of cotton squares. 

Aquaphor

Healing Skin Ointment

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Muji

Cut Cotton Squares

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Is there anything you try to avoid, skincare- or makeup-wise?

For skincare, I’m very cautious with ingredients. I’ve used one too many skin products that were all flash and no substance (I.e., “brightening” toners loaded with alcohol, pricy hyaluronic acids that pill at the first sign of layered products, etc. etc.) I’ve learned to be super thorough in my research when seeking a new product.

My one absolutely-not is a cleanser with active ingredients! I learned this the hard way after falling into the drugstore trap of using harsh cleansers with salicylic acid. I’ve since wisened up—now, I just want my cleanser to leave my skin in a neutral, moistened state to prepare it for next steps. Cleansers can make or break (or at least complicate) your routine, so it’s important to find one that starts your skin off on its best footing.

Any next-level tips, tricks, or services that you swear by to help you look “lit from within”?

Youth to the People’s Yerba Mate Enzyme Energy Facial. It essentially works as a microdermabrasion treatment—minus the uncomfortable suction device, plus a convenient washaway format. I love YTTP, so I had high expectations, but I didn’t expect it to work THIS well: Using it twice a month has completely eliminated any rough textured spots, on top of unearthing a megawatt-bright layer of even-toned skin. I didn’t have a physical exfoliant in my routine before this, and my inner skincare snob convinced me I didn’t need one, but I stand (color) corrected.

Also, I swear by a quality facial spray for injecting dewiness throughout the day. They don’t have a specific placement in my routine; I’ll add a few spritzes whenever to layer and/or top off with additional moisture. My favorites are FEMMUE Camellia Mist and Caudalie Beauty Elixir because they’re so multi-purpose; Avene Thermal Spray also works well in a jam.   

Youth To The People

Yerba Mate Resurfacing Energy Facial

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FEMMUE

Super Fine Camellia Mist

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Caudalie

Beauty Elixir

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Avène

Thermal Spring Water

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What’s your go-to product or trick for fixing a skin disaster?

My skin disasters generally include excessive flakiness and irritation-induced acne. These days, you can bet this combo also includes contact dermatitis around my nose and mouth from the friction of wearing a face mask.

When I feel this coming on, I sprint to apply a Farmacy Coconut Gel Sheet Mask.  Coconut gel masks are FAR far superior to your standard cloth-sheet mask: They truly adhere to your skin for maximum hydration. Layering one of these in my nighttime routine on top of my usual moisture products literally “seals the deal.” I’ll top off with facial oil and a sleeping mask, and let the layers melt into my skin overnight to heal dryness and irritation. 

Farmacy

Coconut Gel Sheet Mask

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What’s something you wish your teenage self knew about taking care of your skin? 

To not treat dryness with more dryness!!! Something about American skincare (late-stage capitalism?) really emphasizes this approach as the only path to treat blemishes and other skin issues: alcohol-based treatment pads, drying astringents and toners, harsh foaming cleansers—the list goes on. These products can be incredibly harmful and do so much more damage than good. Traveling to Paris after college and seeing their pharmacies chock full of simple and effective products that work to coddle the skin instead of essentially “stripping it straight” was a game-changer, and something I continue to pass on to anyone! who! will! listen!

The post You Look Moist: Team Repeller’s Marisa Lifschutz’s K-Beauty-Inspired Routine appeared first on Repeller.

“Maternity Leave Realness”

By Tiffany Wilkinson, Creative Director

The algorithm definitely knows I’m about to give birth—every other ad I get is for a nursing bra! I have a board of cool mums saved, and one of baby-related things. This board is a little mix of everything. As summer comes to an end I’m thinking about being cozy at home with a new baby. There are some noodles I want to eat from @meerasodha, the breast-feeding chair of my dreams from @claudehome, a shot of Alice Cooper and his family by Terry O’Neill, and, of course, some “back-to-school” looks.

1.

Fall still feels like back-to-school time to me, and this tote by Florist is the book bag of my dreams.

2.

If the jeans plan fails (which is totally possible) Nnennna Echem’s loose dress and sneakers combo is going to be my go-to fall look.

3.

Being pregnant, I’ve really missed wearing pants. The idea of fastening anything rigid around my waist has become totally alien and novelty to me. Once the baby comes, I’m excited to have that nice tucked-in feeling again. These jeans are at the top of my wish list.

“Skressed, Nostalgic, and Black”

By Mikaela Clark, Creative Production Manager

I named my fall saved folder “Art,” which at times is frustratingly broad, but it has also widened the scope of what I consider art to be, which I enjoy! I’ve got a few painting videos saved there, a ton of vintage photographs (especially of black people/families) from the 40s, 50s, or 70s, and a couple wild cards, like a post of a close friend juxtaposed with a really good poem about black manhood.

1.

The pearl, the gem, THE Josephine Baker! She is larger than life and that 1950s fast vibrato-style of singing is so nostalgic and dreamy. I watch this video once a week and already have plans to recreate this look for the Halloween Parties that won’t be happening.

2.

This is a still of Dorothy Dandridge and Harry Belafonte in the movie Carmen Jones. I’ve never seen the film, but the images of two fine people serving the perfect blend of class and eroticism halted my scrolling. And it is pretty self-explanatory as far as how it relates to my fall mood….

3.

Let’s be real, this has been my mood since March when the world shut down. For a while, I had a flow for keeping up with friends while we’re forced to be apart, but lately I’ve been feeling like this photo, hooked up to every device I own and in constant conversation. I guess my fall mood is to adopt some of Dijonay’s enthusiasm for this new normal, because I love my friends… but my eyes hurt.

“Print-Set Confusion”

By Beth Sacca, Visuals Editor

Everything I save always ends up accidentally looking good together, which is great for my eyeballs. Right now everything is definitely taking a turn towards warmer clothing and how to layer. The funnier imagery is what my mood will lean toward as were all forced to return inside for the cold months ahead. I keep style and photography boards separate. And I have different folders for different styles—I have an entire folder dedicated to pattern smashing and how to style completely different patterns into one overall look, for example. If you separate your folders into complex systems, you may also be the type of person who doesn’t like to have their main entree and sides touching. And yes… that IS ME.

1.

I’ve been in love with these Brother Vellies boots since the beginning of time and feel like a window shopper who will never pull the plug. I plan to gaze at them until they hopefully one day go on sale.

2.

The day this video campaign dropped it flooded my feed. Everyone I know fell in love. Aime Leon Dore is the ultimate fall statement (also forever statement) and I may be convinced Teddy Santis is the smartest guy in fashion right now. I love that the brand is unisex and uses real people as models. Their new campaign The World’s Borough is setting the right example for the rest of the fashion world to follow.

3.

Anna Sarlvit is one of the cute instagrammers of Copenhagen that have populated my instagram feed. I’m obsessed with the colors she surrounds herself with and her ability to transform her new apartment into a relaxing, colorful dream home. Will I move to Copenhagen because of this girl’s instagram? Probably, one day! This outfit in particular I love—it’s a set that also has matching boots (drool) (realize drooling) (quickly wipe away drool).

“Punch of (Cozy) Color”

By Elizabeth Tamkin, Market Editor and Strategist

Since the start of quarantine, I’ve been using my Instagram saved folder for most of my market research. No in-person market appointments means I’m discovering new brands virtually now. You’ll notice a lot of soft colors and pastels, which, until looking at this as a full grid, I didn’t realize I was gravitating toward. I guess those are the colors that make me feel good right now.

1.

I plan to use these Merritt Meacham pants in for an upcoming shoot and wanted to keep a mental note (aka Instagram flag) so I don’t forget about them. They have the coolest side snaps and are unisex.

2.

This photo of a knit set and blazer from Source Unknown Store’s Instagram is some inspiration of how I can use some of my summer wear as cozy items at home this fall. When styling, I like to mix textures and materials from different brands and I appreciate the pairing of this wide-ribbed corset top with these cashmere shorts.

3.

I love how Amaka styled her jeans tucked into tube socks here. I plan to adapt it for my joggers at home.

“Preppy Androgynous Banana”

By Amalie MacGowan, Social Media Manager

This saved folder, titled “Chic,” is curated with my outfit and home saves because, tbh, my giant saved folder is a mix of stuff I want to post to the Man Repeller instagram (no spoilers!) and dumb memes and pictures of cats doing the splits. I have a handful of saved folders. I honestly wish I were more organized. There’s “Art,” there’s “Eats,” “Chic,” “Man Repeller Sh*t” and “Lol,” but most of the time I just dump into the “All Posts” folder with abandon. For those who know me, this tracks.

1.

This is like the Wicked Witch of the East, but Grandpa style. The perfect fall color palette exists and it’s right here. That navy blue? That forest green? That rich mahogany? All I need is a smoking jacket and no smokes because that’s not my vibe!

2.

This is a tattoo artist I follow named Jess Chen and usually I love her tat work, but this image of her peaceful, unfussy home made me produce an audible gasp. As I attempt to build my new home (it’s new! it’s my own!) I hope to take some of the minimal/maximal cues from this image.

3.

I love this entire Aimé Léon Doré campaign with my whole heart. The looks are styled to perfection and pretty much exactly—exactly—what I would like my closet to look like.

“Textural Terra Cotta”

By Marisa Lifschutz, Business and Communications Strategist

This board is chock full of moments that resonate with me on a soul level, which includes a mix of interior, culinary, and style groupings. For fall, I’m drawn to imagery with different textures and layers that contribute to a cohesive look. I love to mix different patterns and colors in my own personal style, but saved folders provide the perfect opportunity to group fall inspiration in a more consistent tone. I like the saved feature but rarely look back on my saved posts. I prefer to think of myself as Cam Jansen when saving photos, taking a mental photographic *click* when hitting save and then storing said post in the depths of my brain rather than returning to the folder.

1.

This chocolate loaf has everything I want served up for fall with seeded textures galore. I would love to first bake this loaf and delight in smelling chocolate wafting through the air, and then translate the loaf to a look with sesame and brown layers.

2.

I’m quick to save Nina Marker’s style and have this photo at the ready for a perfectly cohesive dose of fall 2020. Worn leather and a gray sweatshirt sounds like my ideal autumnal outfit recipe, and I can’t help but covet a secondhand shearling Chanel for fall elevation station.

3.

This flatware set provides the ultimate autumn color wheel: chocolate and bone mixed with deep vermillion and a few pastels for good measure. I’ve been really into flatware in general and gather a lot of inspiration from secondhand sets in unexpected and satisfying color combinations.

“Relaxed, Creative, and Self-Serving”

By Lorenza Centi, Art Director

My Instagram saved folders are a beast. They’re a massive mix of everything and anything. I started trying to create folders but soon realized that was hopeless. 

My fall board is a mixed bag. I’m hoping to focus on self-care and getting back to being more creative. Funky fashion inspo, dog memes, and Alex Chung’s cute barrette clips with great brows, are all things I hope will imprint into my fall experience. 

1.

This post from artist and designer David Mendez Alonzo has definitely graced my Instagram saved folder before and I happened upon his page at random this week and reupped on the inspo!

2.

These leather monster shoes by Xander Zhou caught my attention immediately as spooky vibes start to creep into my feed for Halloween; these are the perfect mix of luxury shoe for a monster mash wedding. 

3.

Patterned pants from Paloma Wool have been a staple IG trend for the last year and this post finally made me buy a pair.

Now, can we see your boards in the comments?!

The post Team Repeller Annotates Their Instagram Mood Boards for Fall appeared first on Repeller.

One of the perks of working at a women’s media outlet is having access to a lot of beauty samples. Moisturizers, sunscreens, toners, cleansers, mascaras, lipsticks, blushes, bronzers — you name it, it’s probably made its way onto my desk at some point, and beauty isn’t even my main beat. A beauty editor could easily stop purchasing products altogether and simply coast on samples alone; and for the most part, I’m sure many of them do.

However, I know from my own experience and from talking to beauty editors in the industry that there are crucial exceptions to this modus operandi — products that are so beloved an editor will continue to purchase them, despite a closet full of free samples waiting in the wings. Products that have stood out amidst all the testing and experimenting as “Holy Grail” staples worthy of personal investment. These are the products I’m most interested in hearing about, because I know that if beauty editors are spending money on them, they’re truly the best of the best. Ergo, I asked seven beauty editors whose skin I admire on a very regular basis to tell me the one product they’re so obsessed with they consistently repurchase it. Scroll down to read what they said.

Thatiana Diaz

Thatiana is a beauty writer at Refinery29.

 

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A post shared by Thatiana Diaz (@thatiana.diaz) on Jan 28, 2019 at 4:58pm PST

What is the one beauty product you will always spend your own money on? I have sensitive, acne-prone skin, so my dermatologist has always stressed that I use noncomedogenic beauty products, which don’t clog the pores. When looking for one in the drugstore, I discovered La Roche Posay’s Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer with SPF. It seemed fancy enough where I felt like I was investing in my skincare but was still ideal for my budget. This shopping experience was years ago, and I haven’t been able to replace this moisturizer, even with all the new launches that come across my desk as a beauty writer.

How long does it typically last you before you have to repurchase? It lasts me about two to three months before I repurchase.

What makes it so obsession-worthy? While my co-workers complain about the dry office air often in the winter, I’ve never felt their woes (thankfully). This moisturizer quenches my skin and keeps it hydrated in all conditions, even the harshest weather, which is ideal in New York City. It also gives my sensitive skin a level of comfort every time I apply it, so I know that I’ll never forget to wear it every morning. And using the version with SPF gives me sun protection without having to apply an extra product.

How do you typically use it in your routine? It’s the last step in my daytime routine after cleanser, toner, and serum. I don’t apply it at night as that’s when I’m treating my skin concerns with acne treatments. If you have combination skin, be strategic with your moisturizer. Give extra attention to your drier areas (for me, that’s my cheeks) and lightly apply on your more oily spots.

Hallie Gould

Hallie is a senior editor at Byrdie.

 

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A post shared by Hallie Gould (@gouldhallie) on Mar 28, 2019 at 11:11am PDT

What is the one beauty product you will always spend your own money on? It’s no secret [editors are sent] various skincare products as they launch from their respective brands. It’s a perk that’s yielded expensive taste, I’ll admit. But it’s also allowed me to find the few formulas I’d pay to replace, no questions asked. You know that specific type of panic—the kind that sets in when you realize you’re scraping the bottom of your favorite jar, bottle or tube when you need it most? For me, that happens when I’ve used the last of my beloved Renée Rouleau Triple Smoothing Berry Peel. If you’ve read my pieces before, this isn’t the first you’re hearing about this product. If you haven’t, welcome to church.

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How long does it typically last you before you have to repurchase? About three months.

What makes it so obsession-worthy? The peel is one of those magical products that works both instantly and over time. The formula looks and smells like jam, courtesy of all those antioxidant-rich berries with AHAs, BHAs and enzymes, and feels a bit spicy on your skin when you first apply it. But don’t fret. After 10 minutes and a quick rinse, you’ll notice a real, visible change (it brightens, evens, and retexturizes immediately, and, after a few uses, works to fade post-breakout marks, lift discoloration and smooth your skin’s overall surface texture).

How do you typically use it in your routine? I like to use it ahead of a big night out (after cleansing with Emma Hardie’s Moringa Cleansing Balm). It’s a real gem.

Kathleen Hou

Kathleen is the beauty director at New York Magazine’s The Cut.

 

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A post shared by Banana (@bananamag) on Nov 5, 2015 at 9:12am PST

What is the one beauty product you will always spend your own money on? Giorgio Armani’s Luminous Silk Foundation

How long does it typically last you before you have to repurchase? I’ve found that a bottle lasts about a year.

What makes it so obsession-worthy? Years ago, before I was a beauty editor, I would faithfully plop down $60 for Giorgio Armani’s Luminous Silk Foundation. Now that I’m a beauty editor, I’ve tried zillions of foundations, but this remains my favorite (and it’s a favorite of celebrity makeup artists, too). It’s still the easiest to apply (you can even use your hands!) and you’ll get a beautiful, even, glowing seamless base that looks like real skin — or the dream, your skin when it’s on a hormonally balanced, celery juice and exercising five-times-a-week regimen. Armani may not have the 40 shades that Fenty does, but it recently expanded its range. The undertones are formulated just right so they won’t make you look grey or washed out.

How do you typically use it in your routine? I start by dabbing a few dots around my nose and blend out — this is where most people tend to have the most discoloration. I do a light layer first and add on more if need be; it won’t look cakey if I layer on coverage. It’s the foundation I recommend to everyone who wants to see what a fancy foundation can really do.

Lauren Valenti

Lauren is a beauty writer at Vogue.

 

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A post shared by Lauren Valenti (@lauren_valenti) on Feb 16, 2019 at 10:03am PST

What is the one beauty product you will always spend your own money on? Stila Liquid Glitter and Glow Liquid Eyeshadow

How long does it typically last you before you have to repurchase? It definitely depends on how often I’m wearing glitter at a given time. I also have nearly every shade they offer in my repertoire, ha. But I’d say about six months for my best-loved shades.

What makes it so obsession-worthy? There’s this funny misconception about beauty editors that we’re automatically super skilled at doing our own makeup. I mean, I’m not terrible, but eyeshadow is still something that eludes me, especially when there’s shimmer involved. This liquid-gel glitter eyeshadow requires zero expertise for an iridescent disco eye in minutes. Seriously, it’s so easy it does the work for you and makes it look like you know what you’re doing. I’ve waxed on about it with many peers in the industry (I can always spot someone who’s wearing it!) and everyone agrees that it’s a true unicorn product.

How do you typically use it in your routine? I love wearing it when I go out at night, particularly in black-gold Molten Midnight or champagne-y Golden Goddess. It holds up impressively well for glitter, too. I apply it straight from the tube using the doe tip applicator and then quickly diffuse the edges with my ring finger. I tend to keep layering it on for maximum saturation. Also, I’ll sometimes start by smudging black eyeliner pencil on first if I want a smokier effect or a more graphic shape. One thing to note is that it dries really fast, so keep that in mind as you’re blending!

Khalea Underwood

Khalea is a beauty editor at The Zoe Report.

 

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A post shared by Khalea Underwood (@letsbekhalear) on Feb 16, 2019 at 8:54am PST

What is the one beauty product you will always spend your own money on? I’m sure that my friends, coworkers, #instafam, second cousins and the kind lady who bags my favorite beef patty at Golden Krust are all tired of me singing the praises of Glossier’s Boy Brow (in Black). But I can’t help it. For me, it truly is that desert island, can’t-live-without-it product that I absolutely need to have on my face before I leave the house. It comes second to SPF and moisturizer, and I keep at least two or three backups in my at-home beauty closet. It’s that serious.

How long does it typically last you before you have to repurchase? My only qualm with Boy Brow is the fact that it’s so tiny. Since I use this every day (except for Sunday… only God can judge me, so I go to church without makeup on), I tend to run through one tube every month and a half.

What makes it so obsession-worthy? For some reason, it’s really tough to find black eyebrow products. And many of the ones that are available are way too dark. This gel is justtt right, and it enhances my arches without overpowering them. The mini brush is great for getting into those tiny gaps and curves. And the consistency is fantastic, too — perfectly waxy without being too sticky.

How do you typically use it in your routine? At first, I was a bit intimidated by the tiny brush applicator, but I’ve found that the key to applying Boy Brow like a pro is to hold it as you would with a pencil and create those same hair-like strokes using a light hand. I learned this the hard way, when my sister called me out on my “harsh” shape. The formula is very pigmented, so apply it lovingly. Sometimes, I’ll go in with a micro pencil to fill in any gaps, and I always blend the product in with a spoolie for a natural finish.

Ari Bines

Ari is a fashion and beauty writer at Bustle.

 

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A post shared by Ari • The Body Brat (@ms.bines) on Apr 4, 2019 at 6:07am PDT

What is the one beauty product you will always spend your own money on? Glossier Boy Brow [Ed note: This repeat answer was a coincidence, but certainly makes for a compelling case!]

How long does it typically last you before you have to repurchase? Since I wear a full face of makeup almost every day, I go about a month and a half before having to replenish with a new tube.

What makes it so obsession-worthy? I think I have an obsession with this one product because even though I have days where I feel like I have no eyebrows, Boy Brow creates these natural, bushy brows with just a couple of swipes.

How do you typically use it in your routine? It’s the first thing I apply to my face after a deep cleanse and moisturizer. Then I put concealer under my arches with either a flat eyeliner brush or any brush with a thin edge to carve out and shape my brows — it makes them look even thicker.

Carly Cardellino

Carly is the brand beauty director at Cosmopolitan.

 

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A post shared by Carly Cardellino (@carlycardellino) on Dec 19, 2018 at 5:19pm PST

What is the one beauty product you will always spend your own money on? Thrive Cosmetics Instant Brow Fix Semi-Permanent Eyebrow Gel

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How long does it typically last you before you have to repurchase? I go through one once every three months!

What makes it so obsession-worthy? For me it’s like a red lip — it instantly makes me look pulled together. It has the truest pigment payoff I’ve seen yet and has a cone-shaped mascara-like brush that coats every brow hair without leaving clumps behind. Basically, it leaves me with the bushiest-looking brows that are both thick and dark. Personally, I love a super strong brow because I like the way it pops against my platinum hair, but you can also apply it in a lighter manner if you just want to slightly amp up your arches.

How do you typically use it in your routine? Typically I start applying it at the beginning of my brow, and then brush it through toward the arch and tail end, filling in any sparse spots and creating the illusion of a thicker brow throughout.

Feature image via Arielle Bines.

The post 7 Beauty Editors on the One Product They Routinely Buy appeared first on Repeller.

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve walked down the street, or scrolled through my Instagram feed, or glanced across from me on a crowded subway car and thought to myself, I wonder what that person did to make their eyebrows look like that? The number is too high to count. Such is my fascination with the slivers of hair that grow atop the eyeballs of perfect strangers, and I know I’m not alone. Eyebrow mania is real—not to mention ubiquitous. So I took one for the team (our team!) and asked five women whose brows I’ve long admired from afar to tell me their favorite eyebrow product. Read their answers below, and share your own in the comments if you have some secret tricks.

Alessandra Garcia Lorido

Model

 

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A post shared by Alessandra Garcia Lorido (@alessandragl) on Apr 11, 2019 at 10:03am PDT

Favorite brow product? I go through so many phases when it comes to brow products—sometimes I’ll use a gel or even just hairspray on a spoolie (which actually works quite well), but right now my favorite is Nudestix Brow Wax Pen.

Why is it so amazing? My hair is super coarse and has a mind of its own, and the waxy texture holds down my hairs really well. The pen shape makes it super easy to use: I just draw it on my brows and brush it in with a spoolie. I find that most brow gels have a really small applicator which, for my size brows, doesn’t quite cut it. They also tend to be really crunchy on my hair once they dry out. The wax lasts without drying out and you can even go back in to reshape and set.

How did you first hear about it? Someone on set once used soap that they bought at Whole Foods with spoolie to shape my brows and I loved the outcome. After doing some research I found that this wax pen had the same result but with an easier application.

Any application tips? A little goes along way and I like to put less on the inner part of my brows to achieve a more sprouted and bushy texture there.

Callia Hargrove

Social Director at COOLS

 

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A post shared by Callia A. Hargrove (@calliarmelle) on Feb 12, 2017 at 9:12am PST

Favorite brow product? I swear by the Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Wiz Pencil!

Why is it so amazing? Let me preface by saying I’ve tried SO many brow products over the years. When I was the social editor at Teen Vogue, one of my work wives was our digital beauty editor, and she was nice enough to bless me with every new pencil, pomade, and powder on the market. Still, I always kept coming back to Brow Wiz.

My brows are very thick in some areas but sparse in others and I love how Brow Wiz defines without giving me intense brows. It perfects the shape without going on too strong and I can’t imagine my makeup routine without it. I only get my brows threaded every few months, and I rely on this pencil heavily in between sessions so I don’t get tweezer happy and go beyond the point of no return.

How did you first hear about it? My best guess is from a magazine article sometime in college. I feel like during the late 00s, every celebrity makeup artist was raving about it and I was quick to add it to my arsenal. I went through a very unfortunate thin brow phase around the same time, where mine were barely detectible and Brow Wiz helped bring them back to life by allowing me to let the hair grow in without things looking too messy.

Any application tips? Brow Wiz works best for me when I use it to fill in sparse areas. I do the ~makeup artist~ trick and fill those areas in with light strokes so the product doesn’t go on too strong. It’s definitely not a product I would recommend to create a completely new brow. Once I fill them in, I brush my brows out with a Sephora spoolie to blend the product in for more of a natural look. The pencil comes with a spoolie of its own, but this one is thicker and blends better in my opinion.

Zara Rahim

Head of Strategic Communications at The Wing

 

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A post shared by Zara Naz Rahim (@zararahim) on May 27, 2019 at 7:33am PDT

Favorite brow product? Hourglass Arch Brow Volumizing Fiber Gel

Why is it so amazing? I love the long brush and that it doesn’t hold a lot of excess product. Some brow gels use shorter brushes which, for me, is harder to distribute without leaving clumps of color or gel behind. I had a unibrow as a child that I was always told was so beautiful and wasn’t allowed to touch until 8th grade. Naturally, I over-plucked the hell out of them the second I could. I’ve been growing out my brows for the last four years with the help of my brow artists. I met Giselle Soto when I Iived in LA. When I moved to NY for the 2016 election, I didn’t touch them for six months because I was scared to go to anyone else and had zero time for self-care. I eventually found Ashley Span at Rescue Spa who is the best. They both really got me off of using pencils or pomades and encouraged me to embrace my natural, full shape. A good brow artist is just as important (if not more important!) as good products.

How did you first hear about it? I am an Hourglass addict and was looking for something with a longer brush and quality gel so this worked perfectly.

Any application tips? I brush up! It makes my brows look fuller and also my mother always told me if I brush my hair back it’ll grow faster which is rooted in absolutely zero science but I believe it 100% and apply it to my eyebrows as well.

Jessica Torres

Style blogger and podcaster

 

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Favorite brow product? RevitaLash Cosmetics Advanced Eyebrow Conditioner

Why is it so amazing? I naturally have very light, sparse brows. The process of making my eyebrows look full and feathery used to take me 30 minutes, daily. However, the older I get the lazier and quicker I want my makeup process to be. So I started researching products that help grow brows into thicker, fuller, sexier furry beasts. After watching UK vlogger Zoella talk casually about a product she bought off Amazon which helped fill in the gaps on her already full brows, I was sold. I have been using the product for about 4 months and counting and my brows have done a complete 180!

How did you first hear about it? Zoella!

Any application tips? The product says to apply the product in soft strokes but I apply it like a four-year-old playing with her mother’s expensive red lipstick and just go crazy on my brows. I show no mercy.

Hannah Baxter

Fashion Editor at Coveteur

 

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Favorite brow product? Hourglass Arch Brow Sculpting Pencil

Why is it so amazing? To achieve full yet natural-looking brows, buildable color is a must. I’ve tried many, many products over the course of my eyebrow journey, from powders and gels to waxes and pencils. This guy blends in seamlessly to the brow hairs, and there’s no reddish undertone like a lot of lighter brow products—a tell-tale sign that your bushy pals are not exactly god-given. A pencil also gives you more control over the application and allows you to mimic the look of individual hairs.

How did you first hear about it? My former colleague and beauty guru for all things, Katie Becker. I always trust a friend’s recommendation over anything else, and considering she’s a product encyclopedia, I wasn’t surprised when this became my go-to.

Any application tips? Always brush up your brows before you start to fill them in—you need a roadmap of where to apply the color. I’ve also started drawing the hairs starting at the tail and working against the grain of the hair growth per a makeup artist’s recommendation. It keeps them from looking too perfect, like an Instagram brow. Then I use a spoolie to blend in the pencil, especially around any sparse patches, and finish with a tinted brow gel if I’m feeling sassy. Don’t forget to run a cotton bud around the top of your arch in case any color bleeds outside your desired shape.

Feature Photo by Alessandra Garcia Lorido.

The post The 5 Best Eyebrow Products, According to People I Insta-Stalk appeared first on Repeller.

I remember thinking to myself: I could use a comprehensive, A-to-Z guide on this tiniest of Holy Grails. (Not exactly those words, but you get it.)

With the state of the world being what it is—and with a personal pledge to create less waste in 2020—it feels like there’s no better time to ditch my tampons once-and-for-all for the sustainable alternative. Together with the team at Intimina, a Swedish brand offering a full range of responsibly manufactured products dedicated to menstrual care, I asked those who bleed monthly in the Man Repeller audience for all their questions and qualms about menstrual cups. And lo, did you query!

Below, enjoy a guide from yours truly—made with help from the experts at Intimina, who provided some background on questions from novice menstrual cup users and menstrual cup maestros alike.

1. Finding the Mini Chalice That’s Right for You

The most important information for determining the right cup for you is knowing the length of your, you guessed it, cervix. Cervix height can change depending on the time of month, so measure it with a clean finger during your cycle to be sure you know which size is right for you.

Many menstrual cups come with stems! In the case of Intimina’s—apart from their “Ziggy Cup,” which you can use during sex (more on that later!!!)—you’ll be able to trim the stem to your comfort.

Cups can be used for up to 12 hours, including during sleep, but you may need to change it more often if your flow is heavier. The good news is… there’s a cup for that. And with time, and practice, you’ll be able to determine how often you’ll need to empty your cup—anywhere from 2-3 times a day is recommended.

As far as materials, medical-grade silicone cups are your best bet, since they are hypoallergenic, latex-free, and toxin-free. No microplastics, toxic chemicals, or phthalates, s’il vous plaît! Look for a cup that has been tested and FDA-approved for biocompatibility. Intimina happens to have a queenly starter cup—the “Lily Cup One”—which is, certifiably, a beginner’s best friend. It collapses down to fit into its own carrying case, and even has a removal loop to make sure your first reaction when trying it out isn’t panic! And if you want something even slimmer and slippier, they make a “Lily Cup compact“ which collapses all the way flat and also fits into its own precious carrying case. It’s very cute. Just saying.

2. Safety First, Kids

“What about my IUD?” many asked. I, too, am an IUD proprietor and went down the road of being confused about whether my cup would interfere with the tiny strings at the back of my canal, or that the pressure vacuum might dislodge it. Fortunately, menstrual cups are held in a lower position than a tampon and shouldn’t interfere with an internal birth control device. Experts told me that. And as far as the aforementioned pressure vacuum, if you are a new IUD user it is worth waiting a few months before incorporating a menstrual cup into your routine. If you’re concerned about the placement of your IUD, it’s worth checking in with your doctor to confirm it’s positioned correctly, that a menstrual cup won’t interfere with its placement, and that its strings aren’t too long.

3. But… How Do You Clean It? Like, Really Clean It.

For me, this historically felt like the biggest barrier to getting a menstrual cup. Getting my hands dirty with my own period blood seemed like an ick! But I had to interrogate what it was about my period that made it feel like it was “dirty” or “gross,” because—pardon me, I’m mounting my soap box—it’s the most natural thing in the world and society told me it wasn’t. Women have been menstruating since time immemorial—and despite the aches and pains and occasional frustration, it is our—dare I say it, beautiful—biology. L’origine du monde. Whenever I get red-cheeked over my period, I just check myself and play this scene in my head.

Okay, now: How to clean your cup! While using your menstrual cup, you can wash it in a sink with mild, PH-balanced soap and hot water. Zing. For a more thorough clean between periods, though, it’s recommended that you boil your cup submerged in a pot of water for 5 to 8 minutes. Many audience members mentioned cup staining as a pain point, and I think I may have the secret sauce! According to an expert at Intimina, mix equal parts 1% hydrogen peroxide and water in a bowl, leaving the cup submerged for 24 hours. After doing so—and before using or storing it!—be sure to wash it with warm water, to ensure that you’ve removed all the hydrogen peroxide residue. Alternatively, a 1:2 part white vinegar and water mixture will work with this method—submerge the cup in it for 24 hours and wash it thoroughly afterwards. If your cup smells like a salt & vinegar chip the next day, boil it in water per the directions above.

4. In the Words of One Responder: “How Do I Clean My Cup in a Public Restroom Without Looking Like I Murdered Someone in There???”

Moons ago, when I first started thinking about a menstrual cup, I imagined cleaning it out in a public bathroom stall and the resulting crime-scene vibe. A flutter of panic!!! Many responses echoed this same fear.

But it doesn’t need to be scary! Wash your hands with soap and water before handling the cup, or consider carrying *coveted* hand sanitizer or antibacterial hand wipes in your bag to get clean before removing it. Chic. If you don’t have access to running water, according to the experts, it’s perfectly safe to empty your cup and wipe it out with toilet paper before reinserting. Alternatively, you can bring your reusable water bottle into the stall with you to do a little rinse. Clean your hands to the best of your ability before leaving the stall, give them a proper wash in the sink, and cartwheel out of there.

5. UGH, Not Leakage

Leaking is not fun or cool. But just a reminder that, in the beginning, it happens! If you’re getting used to a cup, be open to the fact that leaking might be a part of the process. But if you’re still getting grief after that introductory period, the Intimina team recommends the following:

There are two possible reasons for leaks: Your cup isn’t opened up properly—or it’s not positioned correctly. First and foremost, get acquainted with your ~interior architecture~ so you can visualize what you’re doing during insertion. If your cup hasn’t opened up properly, it’s all about getting the insertion method down. First, relax. No tight walls, pls. Try a different fold if the one you’re using isn’t working (here’s a handy vid for that). Run a finger around the edge of the cup’s body to check for any folds. If they’re still there, gently pull or wiggle the stem. If it’s a matter of leakage due to position, experts recommend moving your cup just a little higher toward your cervix.

6. Truth or Lie: You Can Have Penetrative Sex With a Cup In

Lest I lead you astray, it’s important to note: For most cups, it is not a good idea to have sex with it in!

However, Intimina makes a special cup specifically for penetrative sex called the “Ziggy Cup”—WOOT. The first of its kind, actually. It sits high in the vaginal canal, right under the cervix, and it’s shaped more like a diaphragm than other cups. Give it a whirl and tell me what you think?

So… are you convinced that now is the time to get cup’t? Will you join me on this journey to banishing tampons and liners for the sustainable alternative?? I’m fielding additional questions in the comments—and will continue consulting the experts—so drop a thought or feeling anytime.

Shop Intimina’s cups!

Ziggy Cup

$33.96 Shop Now

Lily Cup One

$21.21 Shop Now

Lily Cup Compact

$25.46 Shop Now

Photography by Aileen Son.

The post Everything You’ve Ever Wanted to Know About Menstrual Cups (Including the Best One for Period Sex) appeared first on Repeller.

How would you describe your skin?

I have combination skin that doesn’t scar easily. I often have to curb my urge to try out all the wonderful facial oils out there because when I do it throws off my balance of oil and dryness.

How would you describe your skincare approach in general?

My skincare is very minimal and low-maintenance. Whenever I try to add in extra steps, it messes with my skin and makes me break out.

Which skincare products are integral to your routine for achieving your ideal, glowing, well-moisturized complexion, and how/when do you use each of them?

I start my day with Be Transcendent Skin Cleanser for normal to dry skin. I’ll lather it for the length of whatever song I’m enjoying at the moment. Then I follow up with the SuperGoop Daily Moisturizer. 

At the end of my day I wash my face with Alaffia Liquid African Black Soap with Tea Tree & Eucalyptus and then moisturize with Trader Joe’s Rose Facial Oil and Supreme Hydrating Eye Cream. 

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What about makeup products?

I live for drugstore makeup! I try to keep my makeup simple and I prefer minimal coverage. I use  Maybelline Dream Fresh BB Cream as my foundation. It’s light and lasts me most of the day. For concealer, I love LA Girl HD Pro Concealer. I’ve been using LA Girl since high school and it’s never let me down. Milani Baked Blush is my favorite blush because of its shimmer, which gives me a nice glow. Some days I even put a little on my eyelids for an extra pop. Maybelline Mega Plush Mascara is my go-to mascara because my lashes don’t go stiff no matter how much I pile on. It’s good for daily use.

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What’s the cheapest product you use regularly and love?

Black Radiance Lip Gloss! It’s high shine and makes me feel unstoppable for the price of $3. 

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Is there anything you try to avoid, skincare- or makeup-wise?

I avoid cream makeup–blush cream, contour cream, etc.–because it starts to feel so heavy and gross throughout the day, and my skin pays for it. I definitely prefer powder products.

Any next-level tips, tricks, or services that you swear by to help you look “lit from within”?

Okay, I don’t want to be that person, but I swear after I became vegetarian my skin has so much more life–it could just be because I’m more hydrated, though. Also, SLEEP! It’s so important and the number of hours you’re getting is reflected in how your skin looks.

What’s your go-to product or trick for fixing a skin disaster?

Every now and then I have hormonal breakouts and my savior is Differin Acne Treatment. I apply it to the affected area and within 1-3 days I am back! 

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What’s something you wish your teenage self knew about taking care of your skin?

Daily sunscreen is essential!! Teenage me only wore it out at the beach or during other outdoor activities instead of as part of my daily routine.

Feature Images via Sarai Garcia. 

The post You Look Moist: A Photographer on the $3 Lip Gloss That Makes Her Feel “Unstoppable” appeared first on Repeller.