Have you ever caught yourself asking what life was like before Amazon? Same. There are very few things you need or want on the daily that you can’t just grab on Amazon. Not to mention how incredibly easy things like Amazon Prime’s “Buy Now” buttons make shopping, One category that has been a bit under the spotlight for Amazon finds is skincare. In reality, some of the best skincare tools are sold on the site.

To guide you through the endless world of Amazon skincare, we called on some experts to share their must-have items. We trust these dermatologists, estheticians and beauty brand founders for their expert advice. Of course, we asked them to share what they love about them and even how to use them, too. Get ready to learn all the tricks you need to know to tackle your at-home skincare like a pro.

Our mission at STYLECASTER is to bring style to the people, and we only feature products we think you’ll love as much as we do. Please note that if you purchase something by clicking on a link within this story, we may receive a small commission of the sale.

BOETECO.

Reusable Silicone Swabs

“A set of reusable silicone swabs are a must-have for safe, at-home pimple popping,” says Dr. Zenovia Gabriel, MD, FAAD, founder of Dr. Zenovia Hormanal Dermatology. “Silicone swabs are the perfect, unconventional tool to pop whiteheads and extract blackheads at home.” 

For “juicy, ready-to-pop whiteheads,” Dr. Zenovia recommends the following steps:

1. Scrub the pimple gently with a warm washcloth. The warm water will help loosen the debris and make extracting the pore a bit easier.
2. If the pimple is still not popping after using a warm washcloth, roll two clean swabs over the whitehead. Change the direction of the swabs so that you can move toward the pimple from all angles. For blackheads, roll two swabs towards the pimple, pushing deeper into the skin (rather than simply rolling them in).
3. Finish by cleansing the skin with warm water.
4. Apply an antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, healing product like Dr. Z’s own Dr. Zenovia Skincare 5% Benzoyl Peroxide Acne Spot Treatment ($25 at Sephora).
5. Sanitize your reusable swabs with soap and warm water.

DTF-Zhou.

3D Roller Face Massager

“I am a huge fan of increasing circulation and lymphatic drainage [by facial massaging and steaming],” says Rachel Roff, licensed esthetician and founder of Urban Skin Rx. “It is a great way to be proactive about early signs of aging and facial puffiness. Blood flow is essential to your skin repairing itself, and overall get the skin’s cellular function working optimally.”

Vanity Planet.

Facial Steamer

Roff also loves a facial steamer, like this one from Vanity Planet. “The results are instant with the steamer,” she says. “Steam is amazing for all skin types but especially those with congested pores. It opens up pores and allows deeper product penetration of essential ingredients to get better results while minimizing clogged pores. Steam is also relaxing, and stress affects your skin by releasing free radical damage that leads to premature signs of aging and even acne.”

Roff favorite times to do a facial massage are after a plane ride or a night of a few too many drinks. Here are her easy steps.

1. Start by cleansing your skin with your favorite cleanser while your steamer is going. Roff’s own brand, Urban Skin Rx, has a great LacticGlow MicroPolish Gentle Cleansing Gel ($28 at Amazon). Another option is to steam for 5-10 minutes after rinsing away the cleanser.
2. Follow with your favorite serums and moisturizers. Try Urban Skin Rx Hydrafirm+ Brightening Serum with Hyaluronic Acid ($58 at Amazon) and Neutrogena Hydro Boost Fragrance-Free ($17.02 at Amazon).
3. Give yourself a facial massage with the face roller, always rolling up and out. Doing skincare first allows the massager to run over the skin with less pulling and friction.

GUGUG.

Skin Spatula

“When working with clients, I usually go over the skin with the ultrasonic scrubber directly after exfoliation,” says Essence Moore, licensed esthetician and owner of Lineage Skin & Hair Studio. “This helps to make professional extractions more efficient. I enjoy this device for the treatment room and home care because it helps to reduce the likelihood that clients will try at-home manual extractions, which could lead to scarring and hyperpigmentation.”

We love skin spatulas, too. Here’s an easy way to use one.

1. Wash your face and remove your makeup.
2. Apply a toner, cream or essence to ensure your skin is moist before using the scrubber.
3. Gently glide the spatula over the skin, concentrating on more congested areas.

Jill.

Facial Razor

“Facial shaving has become increasingly popular for women in their skincare routine,” says Dr. Dustin Portela
board-certified dermatologist and TikTok sensation. “I recommend twice-monthly shaving with the Jill Razor as a way to exfoliate and promote better penetration of topical serums. Facial shaving helps my patients maintain clear skin and get more mileage from their skincare products. Removing excess dead skin promotes radiance and glow to the skin with safe at-home practice.”

Always be careful when using a razor! Here are a few tips.

1. Hold the skin taut with one hand and the razor at a 45-degree angle.
2. Gently graze the skin with short strokes only applying a tiny bit of pressure.
3. Wash the razor off after each use.

Clean Skin Club.

Biodegradable Face Towels

With close to 4,000 rave reviews, Amazon reviewers — like the at-home pros they are — sing the praises of Clean Skin Club towels, the first biodegradable face towel, according to the brand. One reviewer shares that the towels came as a recommendation from her esthetician and has since been a “holy grail” in her at-home skincare routine. Towels carry bacteria that may cause breakouts. Though routinely washing your face cloths and towels can help keep bacteria from invading your pores, if you don’t have an in-unit washer and dryer, that can be a huge pain. Try these biodegradable towels that you can toss after every use.

Have you ever caught yourself asking what life was like before Amazon? Same. There are very few things you need or want on the daily that you can’t just grab on Amazon. Not to mention how incredibly easy things like Amazon Prime’s “Buy Now” buttons make shopping, One category that has been a bit under the spotlight for Amazon finds is skincare. In reality, some of the best skincare tools are sold on the site.

To guide you through the endless world of Amazon skincare, we called on some experts to share their must-have items. We trust these dermatologists, estheticians and beauty brand founders for their expert advice. Of course, we asked them to share what they love about them and even how to use them, too. Get ready to learn all the tricks you need to know to tackle your at-home skincare like a pro.

Our mission at STYLECASTER is to bring style to the people, and we only feature products we think you’ll love as much as we do. Please note that if you purchase something by clicking on a link within this story, we may receive a small commission of the sale.

BOETECO.

Reusable Silicone Swabs

“A set of reusable silicone swabs are a must-have for safe, at-home pimple popping,” says Dr. Zenovia Gabriel, MD, FAAD, founder of Dr. Zenovia Hormanal Dermatology. “Silicone swabs are the perfect, unconventional tool to pop whiteheads and extract blackheads at home.” 

For “juicy, ready-to-pop whiteheads,” Dr. Zenovia recommends the following steps:

1. Scrub the pimple gently with a warm washcloth. The warm water will help loosen the debris and make extracting the pore a bit easier.
2. If the pimple is still not popping after using a warm washcloth, roll two clean swabs over the whitehead. Change the direction of the swabs so that you can move toward the pimple from all angles. For blackheads, roll two swabs towards the pimple, pushing deeper into the skin (rather than simply rolling them in).
3. Finish by cleansing the skin with warm water.
4. Apply an antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, healing product like Dr. Z’s own Dr. Zenovia Skincare 5% Benzoyl Peroxide Acne Spot Treatment ($25 at Sephora).
5. Sanitize your reusable swabs with soap and warm water.

DTF-Zhou.

3D Roller Face Massager

“I am a huge fan of increasing circulation and lymphatic drainage [by facial massaging and steaming],” says Rachel Roff, licensed esthetician and founder of Urban Skin Rx. “It is a great way to be proactive about early signs of aging and facial puffiness. Blood flow is essential to your skin repairing itself, and overall get the skin’s cellular function working optimally.”

Vanity Planet.

Facial Steamer

Roff also loves a facial steamer, like this one from Vanity Planet. “The results are instant with the steamer,” she says. “Steam is amazing for all skin types but especially those with congested pores. It opens up pores and allows deeper product penetration of essential ingredients to get better results while minimizing clogged pores. Steam is also relaxing, and stress affects your skin by releasing free radical damage that leads to premature signs of aging and even acne.”

Roff favorite times to do a facial massage are after a plane ride or a night of a few too many drinks. Here are her easy steps.

1. Start by cleansing your skin with your favorite cleanser while your steamer is going. Roff’s own brand, Urban Skin Rx, has a great LacticGlow MicroPolish Gentle Cleansing Gel ($28 at Amazon). Another option is to steam for 5-10 minutes after rinsing away the cleanser.
2. Follow with your favorite serums and moisturizers. Try Urban Skin Rx Hydrafirm+ Brightening Serum with Hyaluronic Acid ($58 at Amazon) and Neutrogena Hydro Boost Fragrance-Free ($17.02 at Amazon).
3. Give yourself a facial massage with the face roller, always rolling up and out. Doing skincare first allows the massager to run over the skin with less pulling and friction.

GUGUG.

Skin Spatula

“When working with clients, I usually go over the skin with the ultrasonic scrubber directly after exfoliation,” says Essence Moore, licensed esthetician and owner of Lineage Skin & Hair Studio. “This helps to make professional extractions more efficient. I enjoy this device for the treatment room and home care because it helps to reduce the likelihood that clients will try at-home manual extractions, which could lead to scarring and hyperpigmentation.”

We love skin spatulas, too. Here’s an easy way to use one.

1. Wash your face and remove your makeup.
2. Apply a toner, cream or essence to ensure your skin is moist before using the scrubber.
3. Gently glide the spatula over the skin, concentrating on more congested areas.

Jill.

Facial Razor

“Facial shaving has become increasingly popular for women in their skincare routine,” says Dr. Dustin Portela
board-certified dermatologist and TikTok sensation. “I recommend twice-monthly shaving with the Jill Razor as a way to exfoliate and promote better penetration of topical serums. Facial shaving helps my patients maintain clear skin and get more mileage from their skincare products. Removing excess dead skin promotes radiance and glow to the skin with safe at-home practice.”

Always be careful when using a razor! Here are a few tips.

1. Hold the skin taut with one hand and the razor at a 45-degree angle.
2. Gently graze the skin with short strokes only applying a tiny bit of pressure.
3. Wash the razor off after each use.

Clean Skin Club.

Biodegradable Face Towels

With close to 4,000 rave reviews, Amazon reviewers — like the at-home pros they are — sing the praises of Clean Skin Club towels, the first biodegradable face towel, according to the brand. One reviewer shares that the towels came as a recommendation from her esthetician and has since been a “holy grail” in her at-home skincare routine. Towels carry bacteria that may cause breakouts. Though routinely washing your face cloths and towels can help keep bacteria from invading your pores, if you don’t have an in-unit washer and dryer, that can be a huge pain. Try these biodegradable towels that you can toss after every use.

At my favorite Bangkok duck-soup stall, the owner lights up every time I say, “Aroy mak!” letting her know I thought the food was delicious. There’s a momentary connection we wouldn’t have had, had I said, “Delicious!” in English.

And now that I often take taxis in Bangkok, having graduated from buses when I was a younger traveler, it’s useful to know “trong pi,” “sai” and “khwa” for straight ahead, left and right.

Most of the taxi drivers I encounter don’t speak English. With Google Maps you can follow the route the driver is taking towards your destination and correct him if needed.

A Very Useful Travel Phrase

“Dimana kamar kecil?” “Dov’ e’ il bagno?” “Baatharoom kahaan hai?” are Indonesian, Italian and Hindi for one of the most useful and used phrases you’ll need – “Where is the bathroom?”

This is especially needed in countries with a completely different script than your own. If you see बाथरूम कहां है on a door in India, you’ll be scratching your head and crossing your legs, frantically looking for the right place.

Pantomime

I’ve been a traveler for more than 40 years, and I’ve lived as an expat in a foreign country for 28 of them. I’ve been in places where little or no English is spoken, and I’ve done a lot of pantomiming trying to get a point across when I didn’t know the word.

Decades ago in Croatia, we wanted some honey to pour over the thick delicious yogurt the town was known for. My guidebook sang praises for their honey but neglected to list the word for it.

I approached a friendly looking man, worked up my courage, drumming my arms and buzzing in my best bee imitation. Several people gathered around and finally, someone got it and led us to the store where they sold their famous “med” or honey.

Don’t Be Shy

I’ve found that no matter how badly I mangle the language, people are pleased that I at least try. For a year, I was telling people in Bali, “I am a river,” when I meant to say, “I am relaxed.”

Everyone got a laugh, including me, and laughter is a great people connector. So don’t be shy, just give it a try, and most importantly, have fun with it.

It always tickles me when I launch into Indonesian, usually asking a question of a stranger, and the person says excitedly, “I don’t speak English!” When I reply in their language, “But I’m speaking Indonesian,” there’s a pause, as recognition sweeps over their face and suddenly they understand.

So, when trying out your new phrases, be patient with the listener. It may take them a moment to overcome their belief that you couldn’t possibly be speaking their language.

Niceties Go a Long Way

Of course, whatever age you are, you need the niceties of “Please,” “Thank you,” “You’re Welcome,” “Hello,” “Goodbye,” and perhaps more importantly, “I’m sorry.” These simple but magical words and phrases will enrich and transform your travel experience. You’ll be regarded as polite and gain respect.

I’ve cringed many times, overhearing one of my countrymen raising his or her voice in English, hoping the volume will break through to understanding a language the local doesn’t speak.

Travel Phrase Necessities

As older travelers, we also need to know how to say, “Help!” and “I need a doctor.” Hopefully, we won’t need them, but they’re good to have in our arsenal.

If you have food allergies, you’ll need to be able to say, “I can’t eat…,” “I’m allergic to….” or “I’m a vegetarian.”

Enrich Your Experience

Learning a few phrases where ever you travel not only helps you accomplish your goals but also deepens your experience and opens you to cultural experiences you might have missed.

Often, the locals know great places to eat that aren’t in the guidebooks, or interesting temples, artworks or sites you would have missed otherwise.

Countless times I have asked directions in the native language and had the person go out of their way to walk me to my destination. These people connections mean more to me than ticking off a list of must-sees.

If you are taking your cell phone, Google Translate is a useful app to have. It fills in what you didn’t learn and even speaks it out loud when you click the speaker symbol. This is especially helpful if the language is tonal, and how a word rises or falls changes its meaning.

If You Love Languages

Learning languages has been a lifetime passion of mine. I’ve been learning Italian while I’m on the treadmill at the gym, using the free app ‘Duo Lingo’. It’s a fun way to learn a foreign language and teaches you reading, writing and speaking. There are other apps as well, such as Babble or Memrise.

A Dozen Travel Phrase Basics

Here are the basic words and phrases to learn before you go:

Hello

Good-bye

Please

Thank you

You’re Welcome

I’m sorry

Where’s the bathroom? (this teaches you the ‘where is…’ phrase, useful in so many ways)

Help

I need a doctor

I’m allergic to… or I can’t eat…

How much is it?

I am… (you can attach your name, state of mind or body – hungry/thirsty/tired)

Note: Even though there are travel restrictions worldwide, people have not really stopped traveling. Just stay safe and enjoy your trip!

Have you tried learning the language spoken in your travel destination? How has speaking a bit of the language enhanced your trip? What words do you suggest others learn before going to a foreign country? Please share your tips in the comments below.

Have you recently sold your car because you don’t want to drive anymore? Or maybe you want something to get around that isn’t a gas-guzzling car? Are you looking into other forms of transportation?

Alternative options to cars have come along in the last years and older adults are a huge demographic for this market. These vehicles typically are smaller than cars, don’t use fuel, and are an economic way to get around.

Let’s take a look at alternative forms of transportation specifically for older women.

What Are Alternative Vehicles?

There are various vehicles that aren’t cars and are excellent alternatives to get you around.

E-Bikes

Electric bikes have become quite trendy, and many big cities all around the world have placed e-bike rental stations where you can rent a bike by the hour.

They have also become popular with the older population as e-bikes are easier to use than traditional bicycles and require less strength and physical effort. Many bike stores sell e-bikes now.

Electric Scooters

Another addition to city streets is electric scooter stations where people can hop on and off to get around town. These electric scooters have become an easy and affordable way to get where you need to.

More older women are turning to these little scooters to get around short distances. They do require balance and some physical fitness to operate.

Motor Scooters

Motor scooters have been around for quite some time, think the iconic Italian Vespas. They are mostly gas-powered, but the newer ones on the market are electric. They have higher speed capacities than e-bikes and e-scooters.

They are a great alternative to get around cities and also can be taken out on main roads.

Mobility Scooters

Mobility scooters are not a new invention. In fact, they are practically a staple for senior citizens and those with mobility issues. They are typically designed and built with older adults in mind.

Electric Tricycles

Tricycles are a safe and effective way to get around and with their three wheels tend to be steadier than bikes or scooters. They often have a basket or some space to carry items.

Why Get an Alternative Vehicle?

Maybe you don’t like to drive anymore? Maybe you want to be more environmentally friendly? Maybe your needs have changed, and you don’t go very far anymore? Or maybe you want an alternative option along with your car.

There is a variety of reasons why you would want to purchase an alternative vehicle.

• Safety
• Economical
• Environmental

What to Look for in an Alternative Vehicle

Evaluate your needs to determine what is best for you and for your lifestyle. Here are a few things to consider:

• Speed – How fast do you want your alternative vehicle to go? Do you want to drive it on main roads or only in bike lanes?
• Easy to get in and out – This is important especially if you have mobility issues.
• Easy to drive and operate – Your new ride should not be complicated and have too many maneuvers or gears to operate.
• Small size – The size will determine how easy it is to handle and store when not in use.
• Low Weight – This is important if you will need to carry it inside when not in use.
• Visibility – How easy is it to see when out and about? Is the vehicle visible to other drivers? Does it have lights, reflectors, or both?
• Safety – How sturdy is the vehicle and what are the special safety features?

Alternative Vehicles for Senior Women

Here is a list of alternative vehicles on the market today that are perfect for women over 60.

Evolts-O3

The Evolts-O3 electric bike is specifically designed and built for seniors. It has all the safety features to make riding comfortable and easy. It has 3 speeds, and you can choose to go from 5km/hr to 20 km/hr. It has a large LED speedometer and a wide comfortable seat.

Join the Crowd Funding Campaign and get a discount when you pre-order your bike.

JADE Comfort Cruiser from e_JOE

The JADE Comfort Cruiser is loaded with top features that high-end electric bikes have. This e-bike is stylish and modern and offers best-in-class performance. You can reach a top speed of 25km/hr and 45km distance with this little machine.

NAKTO City Electric Bicycle CAMEL

The CAMEL 26″ NAKTO City Electric Bicycle for women comes in white or black and features a useful plastic basket at the front. This affordable e-bike is really attractive and hints at a vintage feel. We like it!

3-Wheel Mobility Scooter

This 3-wheel mobility scooter is stable and easy to navigate over smooth surfaces and up and down inclines of nine degrees or less. The swivel seat and contoured backrest are height adjustable and covered with a supple black vinyl for greater comfort and easy cleaning

Each scooter includes a sturdy front tiller basket, a high-intensity LED headlight and horn for added safety.

E-Wheels EW-36 3-Wheel Scooter

The E-Wheels EW-36 3-Wheel Scooter is designed for style and performance. It’s one of the fastest mobility scooters on the market today. It also features a deluxe seat and plenty of storage. We love that it looks like a traditional motor scooter. Ride in style!

EcoSmart Metro Electric Scooter

The EcoSmart Metro Electric Scooter is the perfect blend of scooter and bike. It’s a great option for older adults who want the added option of a comfortable seat. It features wider and bigger tires than traditional kick scooters which gives it more stability.

EWheels EW-29 Electric Trike Scooter

The EWheels EW-29 Electric Trike Scooter can be operated as a regular trike by just pedaling, or as an electric trike with 100% electric power by just twisting the hand throttle. You can combine pedaling and electric power at the same time. This ride can reach speeds up to 15 mph and travel up to 20 miles on a single charge.

EW-29 electric trike scooter features a low step-thru steel frame for easy seating, a front storage basket and large rear storage basket. Features also include a LED front electric light, electric horn, electric battery indicator, forward/reverse switch and oversized seat with backrest.

Vanraam Maxi Comfort Tricycle

The Maxi Comfort tricycle from Vanraam is easy to get on and off and ride. It has a lower center of gravity that makes this tricycle feel more comfortable than the conventional ones. The lower sitting position places lesser burden on your back, shoulders, neck and wrists.

It is offered with traditional pedals or with power assisted pedals. You choose!

Elettrica from Vespa

Vespa is one of the leading Italian motor scooter brands in the industry. They have kept up with the trends and are offering a fully electric scooter. The Electtrica keeps the traditional and iconic Vespa look and adds the modern functions to get you around in style.

Super SOCO CUX

This motor scooter from Super SOCO is made for comfort and ease of riding. It’s one of the most advanced scooters out there and comes with all the latest and greatest features.

Do you own an alternative vehicle? Do you plan to buy an alternative vehicle? Which one is your favorite on our list? Do you have one to recommend? Tell us in the comments below.

I’m not trying to brag too much here, but I’m pretty certain that I have one of the coolest, most enviable jobs around. Reason being? I scour the internet for the best shopping deals and coolest trends every day, and get to test out so many amazing new clothing pieces, beauty products, and home goods. I’ve been a shopping writer and editor for a few years now, and have developed a knack for determining which products are worth every penny, and which ones are better left in the virtual cart. 

This month is all about stepping into the fall comfortably. Stores like Target are beginning to roll out their fall home lines and sites are seeing increased search interest in moisturizing and clarifying products (makes sense, given that temps are sadly going to plummet and the air is about to dry). Amazon’s Movers & Shakers page—a section that shows what items are rising in popularity—is filled to the brim with soothing lotions and oils. Google is being inundated with “fall fashion” inquiries and people on Pinterest are starting to search for pumpkin recipes and candles once more. 

My shopping carts fit the bill for these fall trends perfectly. I’m shopping for nourishing face masks, sleek platform loafers, and cozy throw blankets to start my cold weather months off the right way. Check out the eight essentials I’ll be buying this September below: 

Our mission at STYLECASTER is to bring style to the people, and we only feature products we think you’ll love as much as we do. Target is a STYLECASTER sponsor, however, all products in this article were independently selected by our editors. Please note that if you purchase something by clicking on a link within this story, we may receive a small commission of the sale.

Courtesy: Neutrogena.

Neutrogena Anti-Residue Clarifying Shampoo

I don’t know what it is about spending so much time indoors, but ever since the pandemic began, my scalp has been a mess. I’ve experienced more dandruff and dryness these past two years than I have collectively my entire life. My one saving grace? This simple clarifying shampoo. It removes icky product build-up from dry shampoos and conditioners without stripping my hair of its natural oils. For best results, I swap this product with my typical purple shampoo once or twice a week. 

Courtesy: Sam Edelman.

Sam Edelman Laurs Platform Loafer 

I’m of the belief that if you have a good pair of loafers, you can wear them across every season. I love the androgynous vibe of the shoes. They’re punk and sexy at the same time. Unfortunately, most quality pairs are a few hundred dollars. That’s why, when I found these Sam Edelman ones, I squealed out loud with glee. The Olivia Rodrigo-esque shoes platforms come in black, tan, or green and pair them with practically every dress or pair of pants you’ve got hanging in your closet. 

Courtesy: Target.

Cable Knit Chenille Throw Blanket

There is no problem that curling into a cozy throw blanket can’t solve. This is why at the beginning of every fall season, I gift myself a new one. I love the look of all things cable knit. The sophisticated design makes tops and accessories like this blanket, which is just $25, look so much more expensive than they are. 

Courtesy: Nest New York.

Nest Pumpkin Chai Candle

It’s time for society to pass the point of calling everything pumpkin scented or flavored basic. Let’s all just agree that pumpkin anything is delicious and should be celebrated, not mocked. This September, I’m going all in on candles. Nest’s Pumpkin Chai candle is everything I want to cover my space. The spice scent is decadent without being overwhelming. Plus, the candle itself is a warm orange. You can’t find a better fall candle than this. 

Courtesy: Mr. Coffee.

Mr. Coffee Mug Warmer

I’m fairly certain that this clever coffee invention was made for me. It ensures that slow sippers (moi) won’t ever have to deal with lukewarm drinks ever again. To use it, all you have to do is flip the switch on, and the base will warm your cup’s bottom and keep the liquids inside nice and hot. I’ll be keeping this accessory on my WFH desk at all times. 

Courtesy: Free People.

Free People Picnic Sweater Romper

This fall, I don’t want to wear anything that requires more than a little effort to put on. Jeans? Absolutely not. A button-up shirt? You’ve got to be kidding. Heels? Please, don’t make me laugh. But this sweater romper? Sign me tf up. It’s like wearing a stylish and socially acceptable set of onesie pajamas. I plan to keep it on at home during work and lounge time, then dress it up when I go out with tights and combat boots. It’s such a simple look, but those are the best ones to style again and again.  

Courtesy: PÜR.

PÜR 4-in-1 Sculpting Concealer 

There are very few people I trust with makeup advice. One of them is Rachel Nussbaum, InStyle’s beauty writer. She knows everything there is to know about the ingredients that comprise popular foundations, hairsprays, etc. Her vast knowledge comes with a lot of heartbreak. She often tells me (and her readers) of the harmful irritants that are too-often included in name brand products, so when there’s a brand she approves of, I take note. Rachel told me that Pur is on her list of A-Okay concealers, so I’m hopping on this 4-in-1 color corrector faster than a kid on a trampoline. It comes in 16 shades, costs under $25, and is free from the nastiness of phthalates, aluminum, and talc.

Courtesy: Summer Fridays.

Summer Fridays Jet Lag Mask

I’m a writer living in New York. Translation: I don’t have an income that gives me the means to spend hefty amounts of cash on skincare (nor do I want to). Spending close to $50 on a face mask would physically and emotionally pain me if I didn’t already know and love this one so much. I’ve been using Summer Fridays’ Jet Lag Mask for years. It saved my skin when I was on Accutane, and continues to be my secret to non-greasy hydration. I’d say I have to stock up on it about every five months, and this September is one of them. I’ll be using it to prevent cracked winter skin, and before date nights or brunches to give me a Hailey Bieber-esque glow.