Search Results: Tatjana Freund
There are so many beauty brands out there, from old school classics to viral sensations. It might feel as though you already know the best of the best. However, every day new brands hit the scene or remain undiscovered. Oftentimes they are the ones who utilize cutting-edge technology, planet-friendly materials, or have the best shade range out there.
Here, discover 12 of the best underrated makeup brands on the market that you should definitely be paying attention to. Whether they just launched or have remained an industry if-you-know-you-know secret for years, we think they deserve as much attention as the big players.
19/99 Beauty
Makeup brand 19/99 is all about embracing makeup’s smudginess and fun–whether you’re 19 or 99. Vegan, cruelty-free, free of synthetic fragrances, and with recycled or recyclable materials, they are a brand you can feel good about putting on your face. Their range of products covers complexion, eyes, and lips, as well as tools such as makeup brushes and pencil sharpeners. Some of their must-have items are their Lash Tint Mascara and Precision Colour Pencil.
Poundcake
At Poundcake, founders Camille Bell and Johnny Velazquez wanted to disrupt what they saw as a broken, often hateful beauty community. With their mantra being, “Pro-Queen. Pro-Black. Pro-Fat,” they created two standout lip products, their Cake Theory Lip Oil and Cake Batter Semi-Matte Liquid Lipstick. For Bell, it was essential to create lip products that didn’t just compliment skin tones, but lip tones as well. Both these products use innovative and skin-focused ingredients like hyaluronic acid, peptides, and avocado oil to create nourishing, healthy products.
KJH Brand
You may not know the brand, but you definitely know the woman behind it. Katie Jane Hughes, the founder of KJH Beauty, is a world-renowned makeup artist who has worked with the top celebrities, like Dua Lipa and Hailey Bieber. Her brand launched just over a year ago with their Hyper Shine Lite Pigment cream highlighters, and only recently added their second product: A blurring blush, aptly named Soft Smudge Lip & Cheek. The formula is somewhere between a powder and cream product, and delivers soft, blendable color to the lips and cheeks. Already, it is making waves on the Internet thanks to its unique texture.
Scrandie Beauty
At Scrandie Beauty, they’re all about being mindful. Not only are their makeup products vegan, cruelty free and made in the United States, but they’re also affordable. Unlike most makeup products which expire long before a consumer can hit pan, Scrandie wants to cut back on unnecessary waste, which means their products come with as little packaging as possible, and in smaller quantities. With an emphasis on high-quality, safe ingredients, they are truly innovators in the makeup space. Some Scrandie products worth checking out include their Snatched Contour Block and their Spicy Sauce Extreme Lip Plumper.
Kaleidos
Kaleidos beauty may have launched in 2018, but it’s still under the radar for many. Created by beauty blogger Zoey Pu, she wanted to create a brand that valued self expression and having fun with makeup. Many of their products play with color and intense pigment, from their glittering eyeshadows to their bold hair dyes. Some of the brand’s bestsellers include their duo-chrome Epiphany Glow Melt-On Eyeliners, and their matte Cloud Lab Lip Clays.
Hindash
If there is someone you can trust to create top-notch makeup products, it’s celebrity makeup artist and educator Hindash. His eponymous brand launched in 2021, and by now have products across the beauty categories, from complexion to eyes to lips. A focus of Hindash’s work has always been glowing skin, so it should come as no surprise that some of the brand’s bestselling products include their Gradient Highlighters and multi-use matte Color Fluids.
Sarah Creal
For the luxury beauty lover, Sarah Creal is the new brand to know. Recently launched at Sephora, this collection features skin-first makeup and skincare products intended for people who found most makeup formulas unkind to aging skin. With cruelty-free formulas, high-end packaging and a pricepoint to match, they truly are the new age of luxury beauty. Some of their sought-after products include their Speak for Yourself Hydrating Lipstick, and their Back of the Cab Volumizing Mascara.
Addiction Tokyo
Addiction Tokyo is not a new brand, but it is new in the United States. This Japanese brand recently launched in the States to great fanfare, and has already been spotted in the makeup bags of makeup artists like Nina Park. From glossy lipsticks to shimmering single eyeshadows, this brand has a huge range of products to choose from. Their aptly named The Eyeshadow comes in a huge range of shades, and their Matte Lip Liquid can be found in 18 distinct tones.
Gen See
At Gen See, they believe that makeup can be good for the planet and still be fun. While being vegan and cruelty-free, they have created a range of products that follow EU standards, which are much stricter than American ones. Amongst their huge range of available makeup, their Spectator Sport Mascara and newly-launched Cruise Liner Lip Pencils are great products to get introduced to the brand.
Soshe Beauty
The makeup industry can be incredibly wasteful, which is why the folks at Soshe Beauty wanted to do something about it. Along with all their products being refillable, Soshe is also plastic neutral, meaning that any product they produce that contains plastic, they fund the removal of twice as much plastic from landfill, so it can be recycled. In addition, Soshe’s makeup uses skin-first formulas, and products like their Peptide Lengthening Mascara and Ceramide Refillable Lip Silk all offer long-term benefits to our bodies.
Exa Beauty
Along with an emphasis on clean ingredients and planet-friendly packaging, at Exa Beauty they are also focused on diversity in makeup, whether that means creating products for every skin tone, or creating a space for every gender expression to feel welcome. Their High Fidelity Foundation comes in 43 distinct shades, and their ten18 Lash Amplifying Mascara uses unique ingredients like bamboo charcoal powder and orange peel fiber to create volumized lashes.
Rokael Beauty
If you’ve ever wondered what makeup Beyoncé is wearing, there is a good chance it’s Rokael Beauty. Created by her makeup artist Rokael Lizama, this brand launched with lip products and faux lashes which give off the red carpet-ready aesthetic. With clients like J.Lo, Kim Kardashian, and of course, Beyoncé herself, Rokael’s Lunar Lites Lashes and innovative Redefined Lip Shader are absolute must-haves.
If you’ve recently noticed the phrase “talc-free” on social media or typed across the packaging of your favorite makeup powders and wondered what that means, you’re not alone. It seems that overnight, boasting about a product’s lack of talc — or even removing it in often-disputed reformulations — has become a new selling point. However, like most new beauty trends, it’s not without criticism. But first, we need to understand what exactly talc is.
“Talc is a compound full of minerals and elements, including magnesium, oxygen, hydrogen, and silicon. It is found in foundation, eyeshadow, blush, lipstick, and eyeliner. Talc helps add texture to certain products,” says dermatologist Dr. Karan Lal. Talc also acts as a mattifying ingredient and a thickening agent, according to Lal. It’s particularly popular as a mattifying ingredient for face powders, so it’s probably no coincidence that this year’s most popular powder launches all have removed this controversial ingredient while taking an extra step. Tower 28’s GetSet Blur + Set Talc-Free Powder, Kosas’ Cloud Set Baked Setting and & Smoothing Talc-Free Powder, and Makeup by Mario’s SurrealSkin Talc-Free Soft Blur Setting Powder all include the phrase “talc-free.” These brands aren’t the first to not use talc — others, like Laura Mercier and Hourglass Cosmetics, have been avoiding it for years — however, the product names are a clear and intentional communication to their customers, perhaps indicating the product’s safety.
There is a reason why powders are some of the first products to push to remove talc. “When [talc] is inhaled, it can cause inflammation in the lungs, and some talc has been contaminated with asbestos, which has been linked to a type of cancer called mesothelioma,” says Dr. Lal. (The reason why there’s a risk of asbestos contamination involves how it is mined — the two minerals can naturally form near each other.) Because facial powders, particularly loose-setting powders, send particles into the air, it can be hard to avoid inhaling them, even though talc is safe on the skin. While talc is not considered a toxic ingredient legally, there could be a chance that brands are removing it as a preventative measure, fearing that it could join lists of banned ingredients. In 2023, California passed a bill banning several ingredients commonly used in cosmetics.
Aside from the potential health dangers, talc isn’t the greatest ingredient. “Powders formulated with talc can often feel cakey, and the ingredient has a tendency to irritate sensitive skin,” says Tower 28 founder and CEO Amy Liu. But removing talc from products isn’t as simple as it may sound, and formulating without this ingredient means thinking outside the box. According to Liu, talc is both inexpensive as a raw material and highly effective as an ingredient, as it has a silky texture and an ability to absorb oil and moisture, allowing it to control shine. Alternative ingredients such as arrowroot, tapioca powder, zinc oxide, rice powder, silica, and cornstarch work as well, if not better, than talc. (Though they may come with their own risks when accidentally inhaled or otherwise.)
Despite these promising alternatives, many brands still haven’t jumped on the no-talc bandwagon, partly because it’s more cost-effective and partly because consumers are wary of their go-to products being reformulated. When formulating Tower 28’s new powder, Liu and her team were determined to find an ample alternative. “After many iterations, we found that using kaolin clay in the formula was the answer. It’s one of the softest clays out there, is safe for sensitive skin, and has excellent oil-absorbing properties,” shares Liu.
While talc may remain in beauty products with a low risk of inhalation, we may need to get used to seeing “talc-free” on our powders from here on out. As consumers and brands push to remove this controversial ingredient from products, the exciting innovation coming out of this shift has us all reaching for our talc-free powders.
Shop the best talc-free powders on the market today.
The influencer-to-beauty-brand-founder pipeline can feel exhausting to anyone who’s a veteran in the industry. With that said, every few years there’s an exception to the rule: an influencer surpasses the title and their brand becomes far more than a cash-grab. Instead? It blossoms with the potential to change the beauty brand landscape itself.
Mitchell Halliday—the UK-based influencer you might know as Mmmmitchell—is one such person. With millions of followers, his brand has fans across the globe, and now can be bought in the United States. Made by Mitchell regularly goes viral on social media, not only because of the name attached to it, but also because the formulas are excellent, the shade ranges are extensive, and the products are clearly made by someone who lives and breathes beauty.
Below, Mitchell explains his career trajectory and dishes about what he’s most excited about for this year’s BEAUTYCON.
What inspired you to start your brand?
Mitchell Halliday: It was my next authentic step. To create something that was just my little project where nobody could tell me no. I knew what was missing on the market and that’s exactly what I wanted to create. Something fresh and exciting but also something that people have always needed, sometimes without even realizing so.
You recently launched in the USA. How has the reception been?
MH: Yes, we launched on TikTok USA. It’s been an absolute honor to be one of the first UK beauty brands to launch over here. The demand has been here for a long time but the product wasn’t as easy to get hold of over here. I’m so excited to grow here and build our community even further. Especially when we launch into our first USA retailer…
What has been the hardest part about launching your brand?
MH: For me the hardest part is the most enjoyable part. Creating something that means so much to you that is heard, it takes your entire heart. I always create with the intention of it being enjoyed by everyone, but I’ve learned that that’s not always the case and that’s okay! Everything I create is my baby, so I can definitely find it hard sometimes when maybe it’s misunderstood. But that just means I care so much, so I wouldn’t change that for the world.
Your brand is routinely credited for its large shade ranges and high-quality formulation. Why is this so important to you?
MH: My main goal with anything I create is simple. It’s made by me but it’s made for everyone. The last four years I’ve been creating products that I have wanted in my makeup artist kit for years and years. A shade for everyone. A formula for everyone. A finish for everyone. But bigger than a shade range and much more important than just having a foundation for everyone, my brand is a safe space for everyone. It’s evolving so quickly due to our fast pace of growth, but one thing that will always remain so purely, is the openness that we have with our customers. They know we listen. They know I care. They know I want to build something not just for them, but with them.
What are you most excited about for Beautycon?
MH: I am so excited to be back! It’s been five years, and so much has changed for me since then. I have my own brand now, I’m a fully fledged adult, even though last time I was there I really did think I had it all figured out then. I didn’t. But I truly feel like I know myself now more than ever and I’m so excited to be in the Beautycon arena with my brand. I can’t wait to meet people that maybe don’t know me but maybe they have seen the brand on TikTok! That’s what I’m so excited for.
What are your thoughts on the role of social media? Is it changing?
MH: To me, social media is the greatest form of marketing. It’s personal, it’s accessible and it’s used by everyone. We have really pioneered the whole use of social commerce, with TikTok Shop UK and that’s allowed us to enter rooms I never even thought would have been possible so early on. Social media is constantly changing. To make it in this you have to be easily adaptable, you have to be resilient and you have to be clever. Social media success isn’t just a fluke. There is strategy and so many layers that go into building a social star or a social brand.
As an artist and educator, what is your beauty philosophy?
MH: My beauty philosophy is to do what makes you feel happy. Take your time, take it all in. Enjoy your time getting ready, enjoy playing and experimenting. That’s when magical beauty moments happen.
What are your five must-have beauty products?
MH: BLURSH, of course. My curve case is my #1 used product. My skin tint really broke some records and a hell of a lot barriers in the beauty space. A “brow down” brow gel. Game changer. So strong and all I use in my brows. Last would have to be a lip liner for freckles and lips.
Shop Mitchell’s must-have products:
Back in ye olden days, shower life was simple: We had one shampoo and one conditioner, and we used them nearly every day. These days, though, our routines have gotten more complicated. With the advent of pre-wash treatments, hair oiling, and hair masks joining the cultural zeitgeist, it has become much harder to understand what, exactly, we should be doing to our hair in the shower. Recently, with the launch of her new haircare brand Blake Brown, the actress made headlines by claiming she didn’t even use conditioner anymore—she only used hair masks. But is that really the wave of the future? It’s time to find out.
To start, “hair masks” is a confusing phrase, with many definitions. Some hair masks are meant to be used on dry hair before the shower, others in place of conditioners. Some hair masks are even recommended alongside conditioners. It would be easy to consider hair masks and conditioners as the same product with different names, but experts say that isn’t true. “There is a difference,” says George Papanikolas, a Matrix brand ambassador and celebrity colorist. “Hair conditioners are designed for daily use providing light hydration. Hair masks, on the other hand, are more intensive treatments meant to deeply nourish and repair the hair. Masks typically are left on the hair longer to penetrate the hair shaft and address more specific concerns like damage or dryness.”
For anyone with healthy hair, conditioners should do the trick, providing strands with daily moisture and shine. However, anyone with dry, damaged, chemically-treated or dyed hair could benefit from a hair mask with a more intensity in its formulation. “Conditioners are perfect for daily or every-other-day use after shampooing to maintain moisture and manageability. Hair masks should be used about once a week or biweekly as a deep treatment. I recommend using a hair mask when your hair feels particularly dry, damaged, or brittle, or after any harsh treatments like coloring or chemical processing,” adds Papanikolas.
That isn’t to say that damaged hair can only use hair masks, or vice versa. Finding a balance is often key. “For someone with natural healthy, low-maintenance hair, a regular conditioner is enough. However, those with damaged, dry, or chemically treated hair can greatly benefit from adding a hair mask to their routine to provide deeper hydration and repair. Using both can give a balance between everyday care and targeted treatment,” explains Papanikolas. For anyone who regularly dyes their hair, for example, swapping in a hair mask every few washes could make a huge difference. It’s also important to remember that hair masks can have specific ingredients or properties, such as bond-building or adding protein, which your regular conditioner does not impart.
Beyond damage, hair types play a huge role in who benefits the most from a hair mask, versus a hair conditioner. “Fine, thin, or naturally oily hair types usually benefit more from a lightweight conditioner rather than a heavy mask. These hair types can become weighed down if too much moisture or product is applied, so a conditioner keeps it light and manageable and should only be applied to the ends,” says Papanikolas. On the other hand, “Hair masks are especially beneficial for thick, coarse, curly, or very dry hair. People with chemically treated, bleached, or heat-damaged hair also benefit from the intense moisture and repair properties that masks provide.”
All in all, swapping your daily conditioner for a hair mask all comes down to your specific needs and concerns. Hair masks can be vital for some folks, and unnecessary for others. But even if you think your hair can do without a treatment, every now and then, it’s fun to indulge.
Here, shop some of our favorite hair masks on the market.
Every few months the internet becomes obsessed with some new “it” beauty ingredient that promises new and better results. With winter and dryer, flakier skin around the corner, it’s time to do a deep dive on one of the latest viral hits: beef tallow. Fat rendered from cows, folks credit tallow with deeply hydrating their skin. But is it safe to use?
Tallow refers to rendered fat, similar to the grease that comes off meat when it cooks. “Tallow is essentially fat that is clarified and used for many purposes,” explains double board certified dermatologist Dr. Karan Lal. Beef tallow has several uses, both in and out of the kitchen.
Depending on the quality of both the beef and the rendered tallow, it has been considered a source of healthy fat, which can benefit hair, nail, and skin from the inside out. “Tallow is rich in triglycerides, specifically oleic acid, palmitic acid, stearic acid, and linoleic acid. It also contains essential vitamins, such as vitamins A, D, K, E, and B12,” adds Dr. Lal.
Beef tallow in cosmetics isn’t a new phenomenon, either. Fat has been a traditional ingredient in candles and soap-making. When properly cleaned, tallow has a similar texture to shea butter. Because it’s essentially hardened fat, tallow does have moisturizing properties. This has led many influencers to apply tallow directly to their faces or bodies, or to seek out products that list beef tallow as a key ingredient. “Any fat or oil will help moisturize the skin because oils and fatty acids act as emollients,” concedes Dr. Lal. However, there’s a reason why it’s no dermatologist’s first choice for their patients.
Part of the drawback is how and where people are sourcing their beef tallow. Because it is not generally used topically, there are safety concerns when buying tallow online. “We have no regulation on these products and sourcing is an issue,” says Dr. Lal. While beef tallow may be sold wholesale to candle- or soap-makers, the standard for topical application is very different.
The results of topical application can be harsh. “Beef tallow’s high oleic acid content can disrupt the skin barrier, causing irritation. It also has a higher pH and we often need slightly acidic products on the skin to maintain the acid mantle. It’s also comedogenic and can clog your pores,” adds Dr. Lal.
While it may initially seem moisturizing, actually, “We have no scientific evidence to support beef tallow as moisturizer on the skin,” says Dr. Lal. For folks who are seeking a natural hydrator, however, there are some better alternatives. “As a dermatologist I would not recommend beef tallow moisturizer. If you want to use a natural oil for moisturizer opt for sunflower seed oil, grapeseed oil, or coconut oil,” continues Dr. Lal.
Because beef tallow is so rich in nutrients, it’s an easy leap to topical application. However, you would be better off ingesting beef—and applying deeply moisturizing alternatives to the skin, like Egyptian Magic All Purpose Skin Cream and La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Balm—than applying it to your skin.
Anyone who’s acne-prone has probably been told that retinol is one of the best ingredients to use when experiencing a break out. Sometimes it’s not even avoidable. Vitamin A–which retinol is–can be found in topical treatments like Twyneo, a popular option that a doctor needs to prescribe, and in Differin Gel.
Additionally, my TikTok “For You” page is full of clear-skinned women raving about how tretinoin, a more concentrated retinoid, cured their breakouts. I myself— as someone who became acne-prone at twenty-three—have been diligently applying my vitamin A cream every night. So you can imagine my horror when my trusted esthetician, New York City’s Sofie Pavitt, told her Instagram followers that vitamin A could be causing more frequent breakouts.
“Prescribing retinol has been the standard of care in our acne treatment guidelines for many years,” says double-board certified dermatologist Dr. Karan Lal. However, for an ingredient that is so popular, it seems like many still aren’t clear on what exactly retinol does. For instance, many people believe that retinol is an exfoliating ingredient, which is not true.
“It’s important to understand how retinoids work when thinking about uses for different skin concerns: Retinols speed up cellular turnover within the skin. They can be helpful at helping maintain clear and happy skin, as well as thickening the dermis, reducing fine lines and wrinkles,” says Pavitt.
Because the majority of acne begins as clogged pores, retinol can be essential at treating these issues before they worsen. “Retinol helps reduce plugging up of pores which reduces the likelihood of development of whiteheads and blackheads also known as comedones. Typical acne lesions present first with blackheads and whiteheads that progress onto red and inflamed pimples and even nodules,” says Dr. Lal.
He continues, “Retinoids and retinol are the backbone of any acne treatment regimen. There essential reducing follicular hyperkeratinization, which is the process that starts acne formation.”
However— for Pavitt, who is an acne specialist— despite the many benefits of retinoids, she doesn’t see it as a one-size-fits-all solution. “It’s a hot take but I do not recommend retinols to my clients with inflammatory acne,” Pavitt says. “A downside of retinoids is that they can be irritating, and to a skin type which is already inflamed and irritated it can make things worse. I also recommend clients work on getting the exfoliation right and barrier/hydration in place before adding in a vitamin A product into their routine.”
For Pavitt’s clients, treating inflamed acne is the first step before adding retinol back into their routines. “I think retinoids are used in quite an antiquated way of dealing with inflammatory acne,” she says. “I always wait three to four months before incorporating back into someone’s routine when clearing them from inflammatory acne.”
If you are someone with inflammatory acne—which often presents as painful, swollen, painful nodules, cysts, or whiteheads—there are many other treatments available that don’t include retinoids. Additionally, because vitamin A is not recommended for pregnant people, finding other treatment options can be essential—just make sure your doctor okays it.
“For patients that cannot tolerate retinol, starting with products that contain salicylic acid can be helpful. Salicylic acid reduces sebaceous gland activity, which is involved in acne formation as well,” says Dr Lal.
“Glycolic acid can also be helpful as it can help clear, blackheads, and whiteheads, but also has a skin barrier positive effect. Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate is the new gentle retinol on the block. It is a more stable and less harsh form, but still a true retinol derivative,” he recommends.
For Pavitt, exfoliating with a gentle serum and adding Benzoyl Peroxide to her clients routines has been helpful. “I love a gentle daily exfoliant such as mandelic acid to softly help remove excessive dead cells from the skin to keep the pore clear and free from build up,” she says. “It’s also anti-bacterial and brightening, and can be used by the most sensitive of skin types. I also love benzoyl peroxide, which is old school but used correctly will not irritate.”
So while you don’t need to throw away your retinol, you might want to skip it some nights, or alternate it with some other acne-busting options, depending on your skin type. If you don’t know which products to use, below are some of our favorites.
Back in the day, we only had a few ways to remove our makeup after a long day. Once we realized how terrible sleeping in our makeup was, we began opting for a regular cleanser. Others might shake up a bottle of oil-based makeup remover, splash some onto a cotton pad, and get to work removing our stubborn mascara.
However, recently, it seems that there are a lot more options out there. Should we be double cleansing our face after makeup remover? Are oil cleansers the ideal option, or are they contributing to breakouts? Makeup wipes—friend or foe? With so much conflicting information out there, we turned to the experts to get some answers.
Picking the best makeup remover has a lot to do with your skin type. If you rarely break out, you have far more options to choose from. “If you don’t have any acne or blemishes, a makeup removal step in your routine really comes down to personal choice. Balms, creams, gels, micellars all can be ideal as a first cleansing step,” says acne specialist and esthetician Sofie Pavitt.
Meanwhile, “if you’re acne prone, I highly recommend using micellar as a first step with no oils or balms in a cleansing routine, followed by a gel cleanser. This is ideal for prepping the skin to receive your activities correctly to help clear the skin,” she continues.
However, if your skin is prone to pimples, your method of removing makeup could be worsening the situation, either by not thoroughly cleansing the skin, or by clogging your pores. “Double cleansing is a gentle and easy way of getting rid of makeup and buildup which can prevent acne and breakouts,” says double board-certified dermatologist Dr. Karan Lal.
Properly removing your products is one of the healthiest choices you can make for your skin. “It’s important to remove SPF, makeup, pollution and sebum from the skin at the end of the day to let your skin repair itself. This will also prep your skin to receive any actives,” adds Pavitt.
In a bind, using your daily cleanser twice can be sufficient, depending on how thoroughly it removes your makeup. “If you don’t want to have two types of products, using the same cleanser twice will thoroughly cleanse the skin and make sure you’re taking it all off,” Pavitt continues. “Another tip is to check your face towel after cleansing. Do you see any traces of make up on it after drying your face? Make sure to really rub and cleanse to the edges of the face, and right up to the hairline also.” Drying your face with a clean towel, and washing your pillows often, can also help improve your nighttime routine.
For Dr. Lal, opting for an oil-based cleanser to dissolve any lingering makeup is his preferred method. “I recommend using two methods to remove makeup for the best results: A micellar water and then oil-based cleansers. Micellar water can be used prior to oil cleansers to remove thick, full-coverage makeup,” says Dr. Lal. “Then you can follow up with an oil-based cleanser. Makeup wipes are great when in a bind but I don’t personally like them for everyday use because they also aren’t often eco friendly.”
Whichever method you choose, it’s also important to remember to check the ingredients, not just the formulation of your cleansers. Whether it’s a comedogenic ingredient that can exacerbate breakouts, or a perfume that irritates your skin, there are a lot of factors to consider.
Here, shop some of our favorite makeup removers that keep your skin happy.
Olaplex, the white-and-black, minimally labeled haircare brand, officially launched in 2014 with their bond-repairing products. Now, over a decade later, they have just come out with their first product specifically aimed at their curly-haired base. The No.10 Bond Shaper Curl Defining Gel launched in September, alongside a new No.5 Leave-In cream for split ends, and a new in-salon treatment that promises to shape and rebuild damaged curls. The question is, are these new launches actually curly girl-approved?
Since their initial launch, Olaplex’s products have catapulted them into huge amounts of success, both from customers and experts who have come to rely on their professional-only products in salon services such as bleach jobs. Their patented bond-building technology claims to rebuild broken hair bonds, leaving weak, stringy strands softer and stronger.
Curly hair is prone to damage and dryness because of its structure. While many folks with textured hair use Olaplex–myself included–they have never come out with a product specifically designed for curls. In fact, despite launching sixteen products, which include blonde-enhancing products, a brow serum, and a blow dry mist, Olaplex had insofar failed to launch products that were curly-hair specific, such as a mousse, gel or detangler until now.
As someone who has used Olaplex off and on for the better part of a decade, I was thrilled to hear of this new gel. My hair, which ranges between 2C to 3A–with maybe some 3B ringlets in there on a good day–loves lightweight products. Olaplex’s No. 6 leave-in cream, which they recommend for curly hair customers, is simply too heavy for my strands, weighing them down instead of adding volume. My ideal routine includes a mousse or lightweight leave-in, topped with a hard-cast gel.
Olaplex’s No.10 Bond Shaper Curl Defining Gel promised a flexible hold that reduces frizz, enhances texture in curls and wavy hair, and was humidity resistant, all without “that crunchy feeling.” All the while, the bond-building technology within the gel would strengthen curls from the inside out. This gel is also packed with hydrating oils that would add to the shine and softness of the hair. The Olaplex site recommends applying the gel on top of stylers, then air drying or diffusing, before scrunching out the cast, which is in line with my typical routine.
My curly friends and I agree that there’s a moment–both in salons and at home–when you realize even while your hair is still wet that this wash day won’t lead to a good hair week. Even in my hands, the No.10 gel felt softer and more liquidy than what I’m used to, and my curls did not form clumps with their usual ease. I attempted this routine a few different ways, with my preferred leave-ins and with Olaplex’s own new No.5. The gel’s hold was extremely lightweight, resulting in flat curls that were both underwhelming in definition and volume. Even when used as a product for a slicked-back look, the gel still didn’t have that hold I was looking for.
Where the gel did excel is making my strands incredibly soft. Like many Olaplex products, the gel made my hair silky and touchable, and not at all sticky. Perhaps for wavy hair this would be ideal, but for my texture, it personally felt like a let down.
All curls are different, so it’s entirely possible that someone else will adore this gel. It just didn’t work for me. I still love some Olaplex products, particularly the oil, shampoo and conditioner. I hope that Olaplex returns with some new innovation to address a wider range of textures, particularly because nearly every before and after photo on Olaplex’s site includes a model with some degree of curl. My fingers are crossed for an Olaplex mousse one day.
Every September, some of the world’s best makeup artists and hair stylists come together to create looks for shows, models, and A-listers that come to New York for Fashion Week. In a few months, the outfits that we saw strutting down the runways will appear in stores. Similarly, NYFW is often the first place we spot emerging beauty trends that will soon be everywhere.
As an opportunity to showcase new products, techniques, new faces, and new mindsets, these shows become inspiration for the season ahead. Across shows, it’s particularly fascinating to spot the ways that similar trends are interpreted depending on the artist. Mixed in between sleek buns and no-makeup-makeup, we got to see looks that kept us on our toes and that we’re excited to see very soon.
Here, see the seven beauty trends we spotted during the SS25 New York Fashion Week season.
Gothic Grunge
Call it the Beetlejuice effect, or maybe we’re all just tired of “clean girl makeup.” We saw this look in several iterations, from the elevated to the truly exhausted. At Wiederhoeft they created elevated, Victorian Gothic looks, while at Collina Strada hairstylist Charlie Le Mindu used Bumble and bumble products to create a greasy, lived-in look for the models’ hair and wigs.
Glass Skin
Soft, clear skin is the trend that never dies, but this year the glow was in hyperdrive. At Proenza Schouler, models were slathered in Kate Sommerville skincare, giving them a radiant, lit-from-within glow. Paired with very little makeup and only the smallest hints of powder, the glass skin trend is the latest iteration of dewy skin. Despite concerns that matte skin was making a comeback, on the runways, all we saw was glow.
Plenty of Pastels
Sandy Liang is the designer whose shows and collections launch a thousand trends. Additionally, she’s apparently decided that every girl on the Lower East Side will be sporting pale pink lips this year—Estée Lauder’s Pure Color Whipped Matte Lip Colors in Air Kiss and Social Whirl to be exact.
However, at Susan Alexandra, and captured on the street by street style photographers, we saw pastels make their way onto the eyes and cheeks as well. After Chanel’s frosted green eyeshadow sold out this year, we can anticipate more pale tones this fall.
Barely There Brows
This year, we saw more than just the classic bleached brow look. Brows are not just becoming blonder, they’re becoming skinnier and all but disappearing off of foreheads. Here’s the good news: Unlike the thin ‘90s brow, this time around there’s no need to reach for a pair of tweezers. Makeup artist Kanako Takase used glue and Addiction Tokyo brow pencils and eyeshadow to create the look, which is a technique drag queens have long since perfected.
Curls, Curls, Curls
We’re thankful that the ‘90s and Y2K revival hasn’t come for our curls. Rather than reaching for the flat irons, we saw plenty of body and texture on the runways this year. At Ulla Johnson, hairstylist Joey George used Oribe products to activate, hydrate, and hold curls.
While accepting and working with models’ natural hair has been climbing in popularity more and more, this year on several runways curls were embraced not just in their most manicured, “tamed” form, but in all the messiness as well.
Hair Accessories
It’s been a few years since we could venture downtown without seeing a fashionable girl without bows in her hair–in part because of Sandy Liang’s FW 2023 show. Now, while we may be moving away from the coquette trend, we’re not giving up on hair accessories yet.
On the streets, photographers captured event-goers with oversized hair clips and wraps. At Christian Siriano, hairstylist Lacy Redway used TRESemmé products and glitter to create dramatic eye candy for the crowd.
Cool Tones
We reported here that cool toned makeup was coming back in style, and the runways proved us right. Red lips were a rarity on the runways this year, having been replaced by taupe lip liners and heroin-chic sallow skin.
At Collina Strada, the models actually walked barefaced, only using Dieux skincare to hydrate and nourish their skin. At Kim Shui, makeup artist Romero Jennings used MAC Cosmetics—including their lip liner in the color Stone–to create the ‘90s grunge look. Cool tones weren’t just seen on the face, either. At Batsheva, models were encouraged to show off their grays.
Is it just us, or does it feel like most makeup has fallen under the “warm tones” category throughout the last decade? We keep an eye out for rosy pink lipsticks, bronze eyeshadow palettes, and bold blushes.
But, in the past few months—perhaps blame the Brat and office siren trends, or MAC’s relaunch of their ‘90s lipsticks—cool-toned makeup has made its comeback. As exciting as that is, cool-toned makeup is not always easy to master.
Depending on your skin’s undertones, you may want to approach this trend in different ways. “Warm skin tones can use more purple and gray tones, while cool skin tones can use more rosy and pink tones. Neutral skin tones can utilize either,” says Steve Kassajikian, Urban Decay’s Head of Artistry.
For Jeanine Lobell, celebrity makeup artist and founder of Neen, it’s all about finding colors that make your natural features pop. “Start by choosing shades with blue or pink bases that complement cool undertones and really make your complexion pop,” she says. “Balance your look by pairing cool-toned eyeshadows like icy blues or slate grays with soft, cool blush and lip colors.” Lobell also recommends icy blues and pastels for pale skin tones, plums and blue-pink shades for medium, and opting for sapphire blues and deep purples for deep skin tones.
If you’re curious about dipping a toe into this trend, starting with lipstick is the easiest way to begin, according to experts. “Specifically a lip liner,” says Kassajikian. “When it comes to eyes, incorporate a cool-toned eye pencil as a wing or in the waterline.” A good source of inspiration could be the ‘90s cool-toned smokey eyes—opt for cooler browns instead of bronze shades.
Here, find some of the best cool-toned makeup products on the market right now.
There are all kinds of reasons to travel across the globe, from expanding your view of the world, to eating incredible food. However, the latest travel trend has less to do with changing your perspective, and more to do with changing your body.
For one, beauty tourism, as it’s known online, is the practice of traveling abroad with the specific intention of getting beauty treatments in another country, some as noninvasive as cheap hair extensions, and some as intense as going under the knife.
Countries like South Korea and Turkey have become centers for this kind of travel, and it has become more common to see photos of airports and planes packed with nose-plastered travelers and hair-implanted men. But as its popularity grows, we have to ask the question: Is beauty tourism safe?
For starters, it should be known that the United States is also a common destination for people seeking speciality treatments. “I have a significant population of patients from western Europe, including Spain, Ireland, Italy, and Greece. People are willing to travel for a super-specialist,” says Dr. Benjamin Caughlin, a facial plastic surgeon at Impressions Face and Body, based out of Chicago.
Thanks in part to Hollywood stars–who can become almost like walking ads for various beauty treatments, surgeries, and doctors–it’s no surprise that people fly to cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago to seek out the best of the best.
Finding the right doctor—especially for invasive, risk-heavy procedures like plastic surgery—is paramount. Some overseas locals have become known for their skills in certain areas. “Hair transplants and rhinoplasties are very common in Turkey. They perform these procedures frequently and have become very skilled at them,” says Dr. Caughlin.
Similarly, skin treatments in South Korea have become almost legendary. “I think the Korean beauty concept is genius and works well,” says double board-certified dermatologist Dr. Karan Lal. “Many of my patients have had a very good experience. I think if patients want to venture out and want to try cutting edge technology and skincare, it’s safe to go to South Korea.”
However, seeking out the best of the best is hardly the only reason why beauty tourism has ballooned. Sometimes people go abroad because patients are seeking out treatments that, for better or worse, are not legal or common in the United States.
“Many people go to Korea for stem cell facials, salmon sperm injections, and skin tightening treatments that are not FDA-approved here in the United States,” says Dr. Lal. “Many patients go to South America for injectable fillers that are not currently available in the United States. The FDA has a very rigorous process in the United States and things take much longer to get approved for the safety of the general public.”
When BBLs–Brazilian butt lifts–reached new heights in popularity, patients seeking this surgery often went abroad, because many American plastic surgeons ban this procedure in their offices due to its high risks to patients. Even when the sought-after treatment is considered generally safe, countries with looser regulations than the United States can become hubs for beauty tourism.
It has to be said, however, that the answer as to why beauty tourism has expanded is simple: The price. “I think the number one driving factor for why people are going overseas for plastic surgery is cost,” says Dr. Rukmini Rednam, plastic surgeon and founder of Dr. Rednam Plastic Surgery. “In places like Turkey, Mexico, Korea and the Dominican Republic, to name a few, the US dollar can go a lot further. So despite travel costs, people feel that plastic surgery in some of these places abroad is more within their reach and affordable.”
It is true that within the United States, the price of plastic surgery, skin treatments, and hair extensions has reached heights that mean the combined cost of plane tickets, hotels, and the treatments abroad can be less expensive. However, this mindset can come with many risks. “I think it’s worth going to specialists. However, be cautious about shopping only on price,” says Dr. Caughlin. “There are excellent surgeons who charge less than others, so don’t base your decision solely on cost.”
On the operating table and off, traveling abroad for surgery comes with increased risk. “While I understand the appeal of traveling abroad, there are several important factors to consider,” says Dr. Rednam. “Every country has different regulations for surgeons and facilities, and if you do not live in that country, you really have no way of knowing what these are for that country. You may not even have an actual trained plastic surgeon operating on you.”
Even if all goes well with the procedure itself, complications could arise once you return home. “If you have a complication, you will not be able to see your surgeon again unless you travel back to their country. I’ve seen many patients who return after traveling abroad for surgery who have an issue and are unable to get any help from their treatment clinic,” Dr. Rednam continues.
This is a worry for Dr. Caughlin as well. “Consider access to your surgeon post-operation. I give all my patients my cell phone number. One issue with overseas surgery is the lack of access when problems arise. I’ve treated patients in Chicago who had surgery abroad and encountered issues like infections or abscesses. I know surgeons in almost every major city worldwide whom I trust and can refer patients to.”
And then there is the simple matter of getting home. Even treatments like hair transplants or more invasive facials can become infected, and airports are hardly sterile environments. For many surgeries, in particular BBLs, blot clots are a major concern.
“We know from studies that long flights after big surgeries are not safe and not recommended. Most of these patients are often quickly on return flights which puts them at risk for blood clot complications,” warns Dr. Rednam. That is not even getting into the physical discomfort people can experience flying at high altitudes in cramped conditions.
While prices may be raised at home, experts agree that going overseas on a beauty tourism trip is rarely a good idea. “Beauty tourism can be safe in any country, but it depends on the specific clinic, doctor, and team. You need to do your research. Word of mouth is often the best way, along with reviews and board certifications. However, certifications can vary by country,” says Dr. Caughlin. Even the most skilled team, however, cannot ensure no complications arise. Having a doctor near where you live could be life-saving if a complication did occur after returning home.
In most cases, the US does offer similar, if not the exact same, treatments within its borders. Despite this, experts are not expecting the rates of beauty tourism to dip. “Given the cost of consumables and services in the United States, I expect beauty tourism to increase, since procedures are so much cheaper outside the United States,” says Dr. Lal. While social media shows the excitement of beauty tourism, be aware of the drawbacks. “Just because your friend or someone on social media had surgery abroad and did fine and had no issues does not mean you will. Every person’s body can respond differently to surgery and having reliable aftercare is not a luxury but a necessity,” says Dr. Rednam. As beauty tourism becomes more popular, we can expect more procedures, and more practitioners to get in on this burgeoning market. Dr. Lal warns, “as tourism increases, the number of complications will increase.”
We know the big names in beauty–our Pat McGraths, Charlotte Tilburys, and Isamaya Ffrenchs. These are the incredible makeup artists whose work we’ve seen countless times, on all-star iconic models like Naomi Campbell and on the runways of the hottest shows at fashion week.
But who are the next generation of makeup artists that we should start paying attention to? Maybe you recognize their work, but you don’t yet know their names. Well, that’s about to change.
Below are the 10 rising makeup artists who you should start paying attention to, because any second now they’re going to be propelled into icon status.
Carolina Gonzales
You may not know Carolina’s name, but, unless you’ve been living under a rock, you’ve seen the stunning looks she’s created. She’s the artist responsible for Sabrina Carpenter’s gleaming highlight and dewy blush, and she’s also worked with Gigi Hadid, Blake Lively, and Camila Mendes. She currently works with Armani Beauty, which explains why all her clients leave her chair with an immaculate complexion.
Nadia Tayeh
If you’ve ever seen a photo of a model on a red carpet and gawked over their makeup, odds are Nadia was the mastermind behind the look. She’s worked with beauties like Bella Hadid and Justine Skye, creating not just pretty looks, but ones that stand out from the crowd. Clean girl makeup isn’t her vibe—she’s known for graphic eyeliner moments and not shying away from color.
Sophia Sinot
Let’s talk about artistry. Sophia’s work is not just pretty–it is impactful. Whether she’s working with Doja Cat or Emma Chamberlain, her work is like moving art. From alien glamor on the runways to Hollywood sophistication on the red carpet, Sophia never misses.
Andrew Dahling
When it comes to going bold, Chappell Roan’s on-stage makeup looks have made waves. Rather than going for cute and classy, makeup artist Andrew Dahling has gone deeply theatrical with her looks. From feathers as lashes and painting Chappell completely green, we’re definitely going to see Andrew’s name on more and more icons.
Melissa Hernandez
Makeup doesn’t need to be wild to be impactful. Melissa Hernandez has worked with some of the biggest stars–including Olivia Rodrigo, Sydney Sweeney, and Zoey Deutch. She’s particularly skilled with keeping the skin beautiful and natural, with every detail blended to perfection.
Neil Young
If you’ve been binging Bridgerton and become obsessed with Nicola Coughlan, you’re not alone. For most of her iconic red carpet moments, makeup artist Neil Young was in charge of her looks. With flirty lashes, glowing skin, and perhaps inspired by retro ‘60s looks, Young has brought his skills to new heights in the past few years.
Raoul Alejandre
If you, like us, are obsessed with anything Zendaya does, then you need to meet her makeup artist. Raoul has also worked with A-listers like Angelina Jolie and FKA Twigs, but perhaps he’s best known for creating Zendaya’s smokey, ‘20s-inspired look for the Met Gala red carpet. His looks can be both editorial and everyday, and we can’t get enough.
Tildaxx
If you’ve ever zoomed in close on a photo of FKA Twigs to admire her makeup, you have Tildaxx to thank. Not just a makeup artist, Tildaxx works with prosthetics and special effects to create otherworldly creations that stand out from the crowd.
Kali Kennedy
When it comes to icons, Kennedy has worked with them all. From Charli XCX, Alexa Demie, Sabrina Carpenter, she has created ‘90s-inspired, bold looks that are vibey and creative. With sharp cat eyes and overlined lips, Kennedy’s work has a true signature.
Yadim Carranza
One word: Rihanna. Some of her most bombastic, incredible looks were created by Yadim. His works have been featured in fashion campaigns like Miu Miu and Marni, and on magazine covers, and span everything from no-makeup makeup look and bold ‘80s-inspired creations.
These days, when a buzzy new product hits the market and sells out immediately, you don’t have to worry. Odds are, your favorite drugstore company will make their own version within the month, probably with lower prices and better shade ranges.
Take the Dior lip oil, for example. The product went viral on TikTok and became the new must-have. But in just a few weeks— and well into the next months— they went from cornering the lip oil market entirely, to becoming just one on the shelf, and one of the most expensive ones at that. When it comes to makeup, maybe this is all healthy competition. But, these days, skincare is the latest category to inspire copycats. And that begs the question: Should we trust these skincare dupes?
Defining what exactly a dupe is is part of the issue. In makeup, we can see similarities with packaging, formulation, or the hues a product is offered in. For skin, mimicry may be more subtle, but it still happens. “Duping skincare is possible,” double-board certified dermatologist Dr. Karan Lal tells BEAUTYCON. “It all comes down to ingredients. While not all products are exactly the same, many have similar ingredients that can provide the same results.” So if a moisturizer goes viral for its dewy formula, instead of looking for similar packaging, keep an eye on the active ingredients they list. If you see those repeated on another, more affordable product, you might have found a dupe.
There are some brands that have made duping almost an art. Dr. Barbara Sturm’s iconic Hyaluronic Serum costs a whopping $325, but skincare fanatics noticed that it’s very similar to The Ordinary’s Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 Hydrating Serum, and costs less than ten dollars. Meanwhile, Supergoop!’s sunscreen is a must-have for many people, but influencers found that e.l.f.’s new Suntouchable Invisible Sunscreen is a nearly perfect dupe. When it comes to moisturizer, two of the most popular options on the market are Tatcha’s Dewy Skin Cream and the Drunk Elephant Lala Retro Nourishing Whipped Moisturizer. According to some experts, both can be duped by Byoma’s $17 Moisturizing Rich Cream.
But is duping skincare safe? Unlike most makeup, skincare is not just for cosmetics, but can be for skin conditions as well. Many ingredients could have adverse effects if not formulated properly, so extra caution is needed… and that doesn’t mean that duped skincare products should be avoided. In fact, there are certain product categories that Dr. Lal things are worth finding a dupe for. “Never spend over twenty dollars on a moisturizer or hyaluronic acid,” says Dr. Lal. “These are products that often contain basic ingredients such as glycerin, shea butter, cetearyl alcohol, petrolatum, dimethicone and/or hyaluronic acid.”
Even better, these are all ingredients that are both common and safe for the skin. But even skin acids can be duped. “AHA and BHA products also do not need to be expensive because these too are cheap ingredients. Retinoids can be a save or splurge but this can be an easy save with a prescription from a dermatologist. Vitamin C can be a save or splurge but be careful to find a product that comes in an opaque bottle or pump so your product doesn’t easily break down.” There are a few categories where it’s important to get a high quality product. “Splurge on growth factors and peptides often which are not interchangeable. Splurge on a good sunscreen because sunscreens are your number one defense! Find one you like and stick with it!” insists Dr. Lal.
The bottom line? When it comes to skincare, the most important thing is that your skin is healthy, which doesn’t mean spending an arm and a leg on the newest, buzziest product. It’s way more important to be consistent with your routine, protect it from sun damage, and to be safe with active ingredients. So the next time you see a viral product and aren’t sure if you should take the plunge, wait just a moment: There’s a dupe for that!
Of all the tools that are essential for keeping us looking our best, the humble foundation brush should never be overlooked. After all, nothing can ruin a great look quite as quickly as a harsh, un-blended line or some patchy concealer. And while it might seem like every brush more or less does the same thing, that actually couldn’t be further from the truth.
“The type of foundation brush you select is super important and can impact the desired coverage and finish,” Sabena Collier, makeup artist and Bobbi Brown Pro Artist, tells BEAUTYCON. The type of bristles, density of the bristles, and application method can all dramatically impact how your foundation sits on the skin. Depending on your desired look, finding the right brush is paramount.
When you’re shopping for a foundation brush, there are a few very important factors to consider, explains Collier. It all comes down to your skin, and your preferences. “For more textured skin that has acne, scarring, or enlarged pores, I’d recommend using a damp makeup sponge. The softness of the sponge helps the product to apply evenly onto the skin. For application, use light tapping or bouncing motions,” says Collier.
“For a sheerer application of foundation, I would suggest using a less dense foundation brush or sponge. This allows you to control the amount of product you’re adding to the skin using light sweeping or gently pressing motions. For a medium to full coverage, I would suggest using a denser or flatter foundation brush. This will allow you to apply more product with a seamless application.”
So whether you prefer “no-makeup makeup” or a full beat, here are the 10 best foundation brushes and sponges you can use to get a flawless base.
Cold days are behind us. Along with our skin becoming dewier and our blush becoming stronger, adding a pop of color on our eyes is one of the easiest ways to embrace summer makeup. Neutral eyeliners– like your typical black or brown liner– will always have their place in our makeup bags. But adding an unexpected hue can add a dramatic oomph to any look. “Colorful eyeliners are super fun and a great way to enhance any makeup look,” Sabena Collier, makeup artist and Bobbi Brown Pro Artist, tells Beautycon.
But which color to choose? While you should certainly feel free to snag the color that you’re the most drawn to, Collier has a few tricks to make it easy. Depending on your hair color and eye color, certain eyeliners might pop more than others. “For dark brown eyes and darker hair, you can truly use any color. However, green and purple are great complements.”
Meanwhile, for blue eyes and blonde hair, Collier recommends “warmer tones such as a gold shimmer or orange eyeliner.” As for red hair? “I love using gold or green eyeliner to enhance their look.” And, when it comes to what Collier herself is using this time of year, she gravitates towards orange, yellow, gold, green, blue, or purple color eyeliners. “These colors are beautiful and a great way to enhance your spring makeup looks.”
If you find that your eyeliner tends to fade throughout the day, Collier also has a few tricks to help the look last longer. To get the most out of the look, “I would recommend priming the eyelid before application for color payoff and longevity benefits,” Collier says. “A pro tip for applying colorful eyeliner is to layer it on top of a black eyeliner. This will enhance the color by giving it a more vibrant and bolder effect.”
Whether you decide to opt for something vibrant and neon, or a more subtle, everyday shade, here are the 10 best summer eyeliners that will give your makeup the pop it deserves.
By now we know that skin care is a marathon not a race, and we should be wary of any product that has huge claims. And yet, when TikTok influencer Vanilla Swirl went viral earlier this year in a video where she stated that combining castor oil with Vanicream’s iconic Moisturizing Cream was the key to her glowing, acne-free skin, I immediately bought the duo to test out. Her recipe is simple: Add one pump of the Vanicream moisturizer, dribble on a few drops of the Sky Organics Castor Oil, mix, and apply before bed.
For context, I have the unlucky combination of being acne-prone and dry, which means that my skin constantly craves thick, luscious creams, but breaks out immediately when I use them. In the past two years, I’ve been relegated to the gel cream section of skin care, mournfully watching my friends slather on heavy moisturizers. The idea that some extra oil could actually help my skin is groundbreaking–especially when the entire bundle costs less than $40.
I was not the only skeptic. For every comment under Vanilla Swirl’s video that raved about her routine, there was at least one naysayer who claimed that castor oil broke them out. Dr. Karan Lal, a double-board certified dermatologist, was also hesitant to jump on the bandwagon. “I think castor oil is fine for those that want a natural moisturizer and don’t have acne,” he tells Beautycon. For people who do suffer from breakouts, like me, Dr. Lal was a little more stern. “Using an oil with a thick emollient can lead to breakouts as oils do clog pores,” he says.
This warning aside, there is some anecdotal evidence that suggests that castor oil could potentially help with acne. “Castor oil is an anti-inflammatory oil that has multiple fatty acids that can help restore the skin barrier,” Dr. Lal adds. “It also has some weak antioxidant properties.” Still: “I don’t recommend castor oil for those with acne despite it having weak antimicrobial properties because acne is more complicated than just colonization with C.acnes. It is a disease of the sebaceous gland and oils can enter these glands and cause inflammation.” Vanicream’s Moisturizing Cream on its own is a great non-comedogenic moisturizer for acne-prone skin that many people swear by. With this information in my back pocket, and after going through my fourth or fifth tiny bottle of $44 moisturizer, I decided to take the plunge.
My first impression was that castor oil is a lot thicker than other oils I’ve tried in the past. And secondly, the smell is not for the uninitiated. Slightly earthy and definitely reminiscent of an ashtray, I could see why some people couldn’t stand the stench. After a few uses, though, I hardly notice the odor anymore. The combination definitely feels thick–it doesn’t dry down in a hurry either, but stays on the skin. While I personally love feeling slathered in oils, I can see why someone else would hate the texture.
It’s been about a month now of using this combination, and coincidentally or not, I haven’t had a single breakout since beginning. The breakouts I did have are healing, and there’s a lovely radiance to my skin for what feels like the first time in months. Not to mention, when I use Vanicream and castor oil under my makeup, it goes on perfectly– no dry patches ever, and my cream products blend like a dream. I could be imagining it, but I also have a feeling that my brows and lashes are looking a little more luscious, too, thanks to castor oil’s hair-growth properties. The best part? After a month of using these products twice a day, I’ve still barely made a dent in these jumbo-sized products.
These days, I’m slowly making my way through my Vanicream, occasionally adding in a few drops of castor oil when my skin feels particularly dry, or to use as a makeup primer. Whether or not this combination of products is the key to perfect skin remains to be seen, but all I can say is that it’s certainly not going to leave my routine any time soon.
In our never-ending pursuit for clear skin, mandelic acid has joined the ranks of other AHAs and BHAs that experts are turning to for gentle exfoliation. You might be familiar with glycolic acid and salicylic acid. These two are popular ingredients that are readily available in acne-busting products.
Meanwhile, mandelic acid is new on the scene, and gaining popularity fast. Not only is mandelic acid more gentle than its alternatives, but it works just as well, if not better.
Here, find out why you need to start incorporating mandelic acid into your routine– and the best products to do it with.
What is mandelic acid?
In the skincare world, it’s easy to think that stronger is better, but that’s not always the case. Many acne-fighting products can use very high concentrations of active ingredients, which can damage the skin barrier, cause excessive dryness, redness, and even scarring. That’s just one of the reasons why mandelic acid is becoming so sought-after.
“Mandelic acid is a weak alpha hydroxy acid that usually comes from almonds,” explains dermatologist Dr. Karan Lal. “It is a very large molecule, therefore it only penetrates the superficial layers of the skin. It is a mild exfoliant and promotes cell turnover. It is great for patients with acne.”
Because it’s not considered as powerful as other alpha hydroxy acids– also known as AHAs, such as salicylic acid– it still exfoliates and clears the skin, without causing barrier damage. That makes mandelic acid a great option for anyone with sensitive skin. “This is a great acid for sensitive skin, someone who has a lot of actives in their routine already, or someone who is breakout-prone. It’s also ideal for clients with a higher Fitzpatrick skin type, as some AHAs can lead to hyperpigmentation on a darker skin tone,” adds esthetician Sofie Pavitt.
What does mandelic acid do?
Mandelic acid, like other AHAs, is an exfoliant that helps promote cell turnover. Not only can this help battle breakouts, but it can improve other common skin issues. Pavitt says, “The exfoliation from mandelic acid can be amazing because it’s very gentle. If you’re dealing with acne, your skin can feel quite irritated so this is an ideal acid for breakout-prone clients. It’s also antibacterial so can help in reducing acne-causing bacteria and has a brightening effect.”
Even for sensitive skin, mandelic acid can be used safely and effectively. “Mandelic acid is one of the most tolerable acids to use in the skin. It is safe for sensitive skin. It is great for all skin tones and skin colors. It helps with acne, hyperpigmentation, enlarged pores, and textural irregularities,” says Dr. Lal.
Additionally, if your skin is mostly clear, adding mandelic acid in the morning can help keep your skin bright and healthy, and keep your pores clear. Mandelic acid can also be used in body care products, like body wash, to treat everything from body odor to breakouts.
How should mandelic acid be used?
Because mandelic acid is so gentle, it’s very easy to incorporate into a daily skincare routine. “If you’re using a mandelic acid serum, it is preferable to use this in the morning on dry skin, and combine it with other actives such as hyaluronic acid and your moisturizer,” says Dr. Lal. “It is important to make sure that you are wearing sunscreen if you are using mandelic acid products because alpha hydroxy acids can increase your risk of getting red from the sun.”
One of the great aspects of mandelic acid is that it’s gentle enough to pair with your other active ingredients. “Anyone who’s looking for gentle exfoliation, this acid works well with other actives such as retinol and BHAs also. I put almost all of my clients on a mandelic acid,” adds Pavitt.
If you have extremely sensitive skin, you might want to consider opting for wash-off products like cleansers or masks that contain mandelic acid, as a way to dip your toe. “Mandelic acid can be used in a body wash and or as a serum. The body wash is great for patients that have acne and or body odor. Because body wash stays on the skin for a short period of time it is best for those with sensitive skin and dry skin,” adds Dr. Lal.
Expert-approved mandelic acid products
Call me easily influenced, but when Innersense’s hair products began going viral on TikTok, I immediately paid attention. These days, it’s hard to get through a week without there being a new “it” product for curly hair–whether it’s a new tool or a hydrating leave-in, anything to make wash-day easier.
On their website, Innersense markets itself as a planet-friendly, health-focused brand. Online, reviewers are completely obsessed with their innovative, nourishing products that are designed to work together. And while they’re not exclusively a curly brand, it seems that we’ve adopted them nonetheless. Always the skeptic when it comes to buzzy brands, I decided to try Innersense’s line on my 3A-ish curls. I tried five products: The Detox Hair Mask, the Hydrating Cream Hairbath, the Hydrating Cream Conditioner, the Quiet Calm Curl Control cream, and their viral I Create Hold styling gel.
The husband and wife-owned brand’s popularity might have grown since the dawn of TikTok, but their first burst of major curly attention in 2014 when “Our products were discovered by a worldwide curl specialist group which put our brand on the map, figuratively and literally,” Innersense founder Joanne Starkman tells Beautycon. “We didn’t start a clean hair care brand as a trend, we did it as a genuine concern for the health of people, hair and the planet.” Innersense has a huge list of ingredient no-no’s, which includes all silicones, with the goal of creating a brand that not only improves the overall health of your hair and scalp, but does so without compromising on style and effectiveness.
My specific hair type can fluctuate between 2A and 3A curls, depending on its length and health. When I wear my hair curly, I’ll typically stick with lightweight products like a gel and a mousse. I was slightly nervous to begin using Innersense’s styling products, in part because internet reviewers and the brand itself both claim that the brand uses highly-concentrated formulas, which I imagined would weigh my hair down.
Because Innersense products are designed to work best with other products from the brand, they recommend beginning with the Detox Mask. “This clarifying mask detoxifies the scalp and hair to give flat, lifeless and greasy hair a detox. Its truly unique formula purifies hair and scalp of buildup and product residue without stripping away the hair’s natural oils to leave the scalp feeling refreshed and hair feeling fluffy, soft and light. It’s a game changer for all hair types and textures, converting those who give it a try to loyal brand users,” says Starkman.
Both the hydrating shampoo and conditioner felt lovely on my hair. The shampoo lathered surprisingly well, despite its creamy texture, but I wasn’t sold yet until I tried the styling products. Per instructions, I used a tiny pea-size amount of the cream and a good pump of the gel, and let my hair air dry. The I Create Hold styling gel is known for creating a firm cast, which I found to be absolutely true. When my hair was fully dry, it still had that wet-looking, crunchy cast that can either be great news, or a sign of a terrible week ahead. The moment I began crunching out the cast, I became inducted into the Innersense cult. My curls were defined, shiny, and felt like they had no product in them at all. The best part? They stayed that way for days.
Just in case it was a fluke, I called another curly-haired beauty editor friend and demanded that she test the line as well. Time and time again, we came to the same conclusion: Our curls have simply never looked better. “The love and support in our social media communities are a reflection of those who have not only fallen in love with our products, but also our brand and its commitment to people and planet. It’s amazing to have seen the growth of our social platforms and the enthusiasm from our community for our brand,” Starkman adds. As a newly-minted member of this enthusiastic community, I can safely say: Innersense is well and truly worth the hype.
