While there are plenty of things you can do at home to raise your skin’s UV threshold and prevent or reduce burning, for many of us, a good sunscreen comes in handy regardless.

Finding the right one can be tricky with so many options out there.

In this roundup, I’ve gathered 12 of the best sunscreens that not only protect your skin but also feel great to wear.

Here’s a sneak peek at four great sunscreen options:

• Best budget sunscreen: NATURIUM UV Reflect Antioxidant SPF 50

• Best mineral sunscreen: HERO Superlight Sunscreen SPF 30

• Best sunscreen stick: Vertra’s SPF 45 sunscreen face stick

• Best foundation replacement: Colorscience Sunforgettable Total Protection Face Shield Flex SPF 50

Let's dive into the best picks for keeping your skin safe and healthy:

1. Hero Superlight Sunscreen SPF 30

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Key Ingredients: 17.53% zinc oxide (non-nano), green surge, extremolytes
Best For: acne-prone skin

HERO Superlight Sunscreen SPF 30 is perfect for those with acne-prone skin, offering SPF 30 with a surprisingly lightweight, non-tinted finish.

In fact, the Hero sunscreens are my favorite every since Vertra discontinued the “Beach Break Sunscreen”… (rip)

This 100% mineral-based sunscreen is fragrance-free and silicone-free, and uses 17.53% non-nano zinc oxide for strong UVA and UVB protection.

Packed with antioxidant-rich botanicals and natural bio-ingredients, the gel-cream formula hydrates without feeling greasy and provides a glowy finish.

It’s non-tinted but can leave a white cast on darker skin tones, making it more suitable for medium to light skin tones.

Apply it as the final step in your morning skincare routine and reapply every two hours, or after swimming or sweating.

Don’t forget to protect your hands, chest, and ears.

Broad-spectrum and reef-safe, HERO Superlight Sunscreen is clinically proven to be non-irritating and keeps your skin clear and healthy while offering daily sun protection.

2. Colorscience Sunforgettable Total Protection Face Shield Flex SPF 50

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Key Ingredients: Iron oxide pigments, EnviroScreen® Technology, antioxidants
Best For: All Skin Types

Colorscience Sunforgettable Total Protection Face Shield Flex SPF 50 is a lightweight mineral sunscreen with tinted color coverage that instantly evens out your skin tone for a flawless look.

This sunscreen not only hydrates but also protects your skin from UVA/UVB, blue light, pollution, and infrared radiation thanks to its patented EnviroScreen Technology.

It includes antioxidants and nourishing ingredients that help keep your skin healthy over time.

The FLEX formula has special iron oxide pigments that adapt to your skin tone as you apply it, offering buildable color coverage with a demi-matte finish.

It comes in six flexible shades that work well for a wide range of skin tones and undertones.

Beyond sun protection, what sets this one apart is how it performs as a foundation replacement.

Colorscience Flex is the one I reach for when I want a tinted mineral sunscreen that replaces my foundation.

It's thicker with more buildable coverage, giving you that extra polish and finish you need.

That said, I always need a setting spray with this one.

Without it, the sunscreen tint can come off on my hands and transfer to my clothes, especially if I'm going to be outside for extended periods in the heat.

I only reach for it when I'm already doing a full makeup look, and in the summertime I'm using a setting spray over makeup anyway.

My go-to setting sprays are the NYX Face Glue or the L'Oreal Infallible 24-Hour.

3. Vertra Invisible Sunscreen Face Stick SPF 45

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Key Ingredients: zinc oxide 22%
Best For: outdoor activities

Vertra’s SPF 45 invisible face stick ensures long-lasting, water-resistant sun protection.

This mineral sunscreen is perfect for activities like surfing, skiing, or any outdoor adventure.

I love that I can throw it in my bag for easy application throughout the day.

This formula offers broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection with SPF 45 and is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes.

It’s designed to go on clear, leaving a non-greasy finish that makes it ideal for everyday use.

The sunscreen stick is free from parabens, oxybenzone, octinoxate, and fragrances, catering to those who prefer cleaner skincare options.

Its mineral formula provides effective sun defense without the common drawbacks of sunscreen like unpleasant smells or a greasy texture.

As someone who is picky about sunscreen, I appreciate that Vertra’s face stick has a lightweight and moisturizing feel.

The packaging is cleverly designed to prevent leaks, making it travel-friendly.

4. Naturium UV Reflect Antioxidant SPF 50

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Key Ingredients: 2% InfraGuard, bio-fermented powder, amino acid derivative
Best For: sensitive, dry, aging, combination, and oily Skin Types

NATURIUM UV Reflect Antioxidant SPF 50 is more than just sunscreen; it’s like a serum that delivers weightless SPF coverage with a silky smooth finish that feels almost like velvet.

It’s equipped with organic chemical filters and enhanced with 2% InfraGuard to protect against blue light and pollution-induced free radicals.

This product features a bio-fermented powder blended with an amino acid derivative to diffuse light and provide a soft-focus finish.

Trust me, unless you’re a serious skincare junkie, you’ve never tried an SPF like this.

The ultralight texture is perfect for those who are acne-prone as it won’t clog pores or cause breakouts.

Plus, it has ingredients that help absorb oil, giving you that sheer matte look all day long, ideal for people with oilier skin types.

And yes, I promise, zero white cast!

I’m a huge fan and have already repurchased this product.

Whether you’re facing a long day outdoors or just need reliable daily protection, NATURIUM UV Reflect Antioxidant SPF 50 ensures your skin stays protected, comfortable, and flawless without any greasiness or sticky residue.

5. Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel Lotion SPF 50

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Key Ingredients: avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate, octocrylene
Best For: All Skin Types

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel Lotion SPF 50 gives you both UVA and UVB protection while keeping your skin hydrated with its light, refreshing texture.

This sunscreen is water-resistant and keeps your skin moisturized for up to eight hours without leaving any white residue.

It’s light enough to wear under makeup every day.

It’s oil-free and non-comedogenic, so it won’t clog your pores, making it great for all skin types, including acne-prone skin.

This sunscreen is part of Neutrogena’s Hydro Boost line, which uses generous amounts of hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid to keep your skin plump.

It’s a good choice for daily sun protection and keeping your skin hydrated.

However, I’ve noticed that Neutrogena’s sunscreen stings my eyes a bit, which is common with many chemical sunscreens.

It’s also thicker and, while moisturizing, may leave your skin feeling slightly greasy.

I still think it’s a good purchase if you’re balling on a budget, but buyer be aware!

6. Epionce Daily Shield Tinted SPF 50 Sunscreen

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Key Ingredients: Titanium Dioxide 4.8%, Zinc Oxide 9.3%
Best For: All Skin Types, replacing your foundation

Epionce Daily Shield Tinted SPF 50 Sunscreen is great for anyone looking for strong sun protection with a hint of color.

It offers SPF 50 and is gentle enough for all skin types, including sensitive skin.

The formula is water-resistant and lasts for 80 minutes in water.

This sunscreen protects your skin from UV rays and also nourishes it with natural antioxidants like sunflower argan oil, rosemary extract, and apple fruit extract, giving your skin a healthy glow.

The tint on the Epionce is darker and may be more suitable than other mineral sunscreens for those with darker skin tones, but it can leave a cast.

That said, I should note that nearly all sunscreens with zinc oxide leave a white cast, and you kind of have to pick your poison.

This one blends well with most skin tones, making it perfect for everyday use on its own or under makeup.

7. True Botanicals Skin Barrier Sun Shield SPF 30

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Key Ingredients: non-nano zinc, chebula, astaxanthin
Best For: All Skin Types, especially oily, sensitive, and breakout-prone skin

True Botanicals Skin Barrier Sun Shield SPF 30 offers effective sun protection combined with significant skincare benefits.

This hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, and non-comedogenic formula avoids common sunscreen toxins and waxes, making it suitable for even sensitive skin.

It uses non-nano zinc for broad-spectrum UV protection and maintains a light, natural finish, avoiding the typical dullness of zinc sunscreens.

The product includes chebula, an antioxidant that combats aging signs and supports hydration, along with astaxanthin, which improves skin texture and reduces the appearance of fine lines.

Its warm tint helps neutralize redness and enhances your skin’s natural glow, making it perfect for daily use.

It’s especially beneficial for those with oily or sensitive skin and is reef-safe, meeting environmental safety standards.

8. Supergoop! Glowscreen

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Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, cocoa peptides
Best For: Normal, combination, or dry skin

The Glowscreen is a 10 out of 10!

This incredible product provides a beautiful glow and fantastic coverage with its light-reflecting pearls that give you that sunkissed look without actual sun damage.

It makes my skin look like I’ve been in the sun and have a really nice tan without actually needing to sunbathe right before.

The pearlescent sheen it gives is lovely and it blends in immediately as a primer for makeup, creating an even base.

It comes in 4 shades to match your skin tone.

The lightweight lotion is hydrating thanks to hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide helps provide that radiant, glowing skin.

9. TULA Protect + Glow SPF 30

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Key Ingredients: Prebiotics, wild butterfly ginger root
Best For: All Skin Types

TULA Protect + Glow SPF 30 is a bestselling facial sunscreen formulated with wellness-first ingredients to protect your skin barrier from UV rays while delivering an instant glow.

If you’re looking for daily broad-spectrum protection from damaging sun rays, this sunscreen offers antioxidants that help fight pollution and blue light.

The formula is non-comedogenic and non-greasy with no white cast, making it suitable for all skin types.

It’s reef-safe and vegan, featuring prebiotics to maintain skin balance and wild butterfly ginger root to help protect skin against the damaging effects of blue light and pollution.

10. EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46

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Key Ingredients: Zinc oxide, niacinamide, sodium hyaluronate, lactic acid
Best For: Acne-prone and sensitive skin

If you’re looking for a lightweight, oil-free sunscreen that actually works for acne-prone and sensitive skin, EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 delivers protection while refining your complexion.

This fragrance-free formula shields your skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays with sodium hyaluronate to moisturize and lactic acid to refine the skin, clear pores, and reduce shine.

I like this sunscreen, but the price point is on the higher side.

Still, if you want reliable protection that won’t irritate, it’s worth considering.

11. SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum UV SPF 50

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Key Ingredients: Centella asiatica extract, hyaluronic acid
Best For: All Skin Types

If you’re looking for a sunscreen that feels more like a lightweight hydrating serum, SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum UV SPF 50 provides broad-spectrum UV protection while delivering moisture and radiance.

This serum shields your skin from harmful UVA/UVB rays with SPF 50 coverage, offering an airy, silky texture that absorbs well and leaves a luminous, no-white-cast finish perfect for daily summer use.

The unique hyaluronic acid system deeply hydrates, locking in moisture to help your skin look more supple and radiant, even on hot days.

Centella asiatica extract soothes sensitive-looking skin, reduces the appearance of redness, and supports your skin’s natural barrier.

12. Beauty of Joseon Day Dew Sunscreen Lightweight SPF 50

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Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, panthenol
Best For: Normal, dry, combination, and oily skin

Beauty of Joseon Day Dew Sunscreen Lightweight SPF 50 is a skincare-first sunscreen formula with a barely-there texture that melts in fast and leaves zero white cast for a fresh, dewy finish.

More than just protection, Day Dew feels like your favorite moisturizer packed with hydrating ingredients.

Hyaluronic acid hydrates without heaviness, niacinamide visibly brightens and calms skin, and panthenol gives an additional boost of moisture for that dewy finish.

This lightweight cream layers beautifully under makeup or can be worn alone, making it perfect for everyday use.

The Takeaway

Sunscreen is one of those products where the best choice really comes down to your skin and what you’ll use consistently.

A mineral sunscreen might be perfect for someone with sensitive skin, while someone else finds them too heavy and prefers a chemical formula instead.

And that’s the point.

There’s no one sunscreen that works for everybody.

What matters is finding something that feels good on your skin and fits into your routine.

Because the best sunscreen is always the one you’ll wear every single day, especially as summer rolls in.

Cheers,

Fawn

Certain formulas work really well for some people and do almost nothing for others, and a lot of that comes down to formulation.

A lot of formulas oxidize too quickly.

Others are irritating because of the pH levels they’re formulated at.

And strong L-ascorbic acid serums aren’t always the best fit for everyone either, especially for people whose skin would tolerate a gentler derivative better.

The routine side of things can get messy too.

People use too much product, mix too many active ingredients together, store their serums the wrong way, or expect their skin to look different after four days.

So in this article, I wanted to break down why some vitamin C serums work so well, why others fail, and how to use them in a way that makes sense for your skin.

Why Your Vitamin C Serum Isn’t Working

One thing I kept noticing with vitamin C serums was how unstable some of them can be.

And after trying a lot of different formulas over the years, the same issues kept showing up:

• The formula oxidizes too quickly

• The pH is too irritating for someone’s skin

• The serum never fits naturally into their routine in the first place

The oxidation issue is probably the biggest one.

The most researched form of vitamin C in skincare, L-ascorbic acid, is also one of the hardest to stabilize.

It breaks down when exposed to air, light, and heat, which is part of why some vitamin C serums slowly change color after being opened.

A pale yellow color usually isn’t considered a huge issue, but once a formula starts turning dark orange or brown, that’s generally a sign the serum has degraded significantly.

The pH side of things explains a lot too.

Some vitamin C serums are intentionally formulated at very low pH levels because lower pH environments help stabilize L-ascorbic acid and improve penetration into the skin.

That also explains why some people feel like vitamin C just doesn’t agree with their skin.

The skin’s acid mantle sits around a 5.5 pH, so some low-pH vitamin C serums can sting, especially if your skin barrier is already irritated or you have sensitive skin.

Then there’s the routine side of it.

A lot of people use way more product than they need, even though most vitamin C serums only require a few drops for the entire face.

People can use vitamin C at night if they want to, but antioxidants like vitamin C are commonly used in the morning because they work well alongside sunscreen and help reduce oxidative stress caused by UV exposure.

The longer I spent trying different vitamin C serums, the less it felt like a simple “this ingredient works” or “this ingredient is overhyped” conversation.

A lot of it just comes down to finding a formula that works well for your skin and fits into your routine.

Understanding Vitamin C Forms (L-Ascorbic Acid vs. Derivatives)

“Vitamin C” on a skincare label doesn’t always mean the same ingredient.

There are multiple forms of vitamin C used in skincare, and they all behave a little differently.

The version most people know is L-ascorbic acid, which is the pure form of vitamin C.

It also has the most research behind it, which is part of why it became the gold standard in skincare in the first place.

A lot of the research around vitamin C’s antioxidant activity, brightening effects, and collagen support is specifically tied to L-ascorbic acid formulas.

It’s considered highly bioavailable, meaning the skin can use it once absorbed.

But not everyone tolerates L-ascorbic acid formulas well, which is part of why vitamin C derivatives became so popular.

Some of the more common derivatives include:

• Tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate (THD) is an oil-soluble vitamin C derivative that tends to be gentler and more stable than traditional vitamin C.

• Sodium ascorbyl phosphate is a gentler vitamin C derivative often used in products for acne-prone or sensitive skin.

• Magnesium ascorbyl phosphate is a water-soluble vitamin C derivative found in a lot of brightening and hydrating formulas.

These derivatives are often easier to stabilize and can feel less irritating on sensitive skin compared to traditional L-ascorbic acid formulas.

Some derivatives also have benefits beyond antioxidant support.

For example, magnesium ascorbyl phosphate has shown some anti-acne activity in certain studies, which makes it interesting for people dealing with both acne and post-inflammatory pigmentation at the same time.

At a certain point, it stopped feeling like there was one universally “best” version of vitamin C.

A good vitamin C serum is usually less about chasing the strongest formula and more about finding one your skin can tolerate consistently.

Storage & Application Tips for Maximum Results

Vitamin C serums don’t need to be handled like radioactive material.

A lot of people store them in the fridge, but for most formulas, that’s probably overkill.

Heat, light, and air exposure matter more.

If your bathroom gets hot and steamy from showers, it’s better to keep the serum inside a cabinet instead of directly on the counter.

Otherwise, a dark drawer or cabinet is fine.

Vitamin C also makes the most sense to me in a morning routine alongside sunscreen.

And people tend to use way more vitamin C serum than they need.

Most formulas only require about three to five drops for the entire face.

Using more product doesn’t automatically mean better results either, especially with stronger L-ascorbic acid formulas that can already sting on their own.

What to Avoid When Using Vitamin C

Vitamin C is one of those ingredients people tend to overdo without realizing it.

If you’re newer to skincare or you already have sensitive skin, I wouldn’t use a strong vitamin C serum alongside alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) like glycolic acid, beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) like salicylic acid, and retinoids all in the same routine.

I use vitamin C in the mornings, and at night I usually pair tretinoin with copper peptides or alternate tretinoin with an exfoliating acid depending on how my skin feels.

Copper peptides are one of the few active ingredients I still find gentle enough to use alongside tretinoin almost every night without irritating my skin.

But if your skin already feels irritated, dry, tight, or stingy, adding more active ingredients on top usually makes things worse instead of better.

If you’re looking for copper peptide products that layer well into a routine, a few I’ve liked are:

1. Mirror Skin Copper Elixir: This is my favorite copper peptide-specific serum overall because the formula feels hydrating, barrier-supportive, and easy to layer without making my skin feel overwhelmed.

   

2. Medik8 Liquid Peptides: I like this one more as a multitasking peptide serum because it’s deeply hydrating and works well alongside other anti-aging products.

   

3. The Ordinary Multi-Peptide + Copper Peptides: This is a good budget-friendly option if you want something straightforward that still gives you peptides, amino acids, and hydration in one formula.

   

Realistic Expectations for Vitamin C

Vitamin C serums can help with brightness and uneven skin tone, but most people aren’t going to wake up with different skin after three days.

It takes a couple of weeks before people start noticing much of a difference.

And for some people, vitamin C still won’t be enough on its own.

For example, hydroquinone is considered a better option for people who have melasma or stubborn dark patches, although you’d need to see a dermatologist to get a prescription for it in the United States.

Vitamin C is great for the morning, but retinol or tretinoin also makes sense at night.

If you’re newer to retinoids, it’s better to start with a gentler retinol first and work your way up to tretinoin over time.

I can now use tretinoin almost every night of the week, and sometimes I’ll even use a lactic acid treatment too without damaging my skin barrier, but I couldn’t tolerate that when I first started using retinoids.

The bigger thing I realized is that skincare works better as a full routine instead of expecting one product to fix everything on its own.

Anti-aging ingredients matter, but hydration and skin barrier support matter too.

Here’s what a simple skincare routine can look like:

Morning Routine

1. Start with a gentle cleanser. You want your skin clean before you apply vitamin C.

   

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2. Then apply your vitamin C serum. You only need a few drops for your whole face. I usually use around three to five drops.

   

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3. After that, apply a moisturizer to help keep your skin hydrated and support your skin barrier.

   

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4. Then finish with sunscreen.

   

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Night Routine

1. Wash your face with a gentle cleanser. If you’re wearing makeup or sunscreen, double cleanse first with a cleansing oil so you’re not leaving anything behind on your skin.

   

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2. Apply your retinoid. If you're newer to retinoids, start with a gentler retinol first before working your way up to tretinoin.

   

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3. Then apply your copper peptides or a hydrating serum.

   

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4. Finish with a really good moisturizer.

   

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5. If your skin feels extra dry, you can add a facial oil on top.

   

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Are Expensive Vitamin C Serums Better?

Some expensive vitamin C serums are worth the price because the formulas can be incredible.

A lot of them have extra ingredients added to help stabilize the vitamin C, more research behind them, or textures that just feel better on the skin.

And people underestimate how much texture affects whether you’ll keep using a product consistently.

If a serum feels greasy, sticky, gritty, or pills under sunscreen, you’re probably not going to keep reaching for it.

Certain formulas are also designed for specific skin types, and some stabilization ingredients and texture agents are more expensive to formulate with in the first place.

But you also don’t need to spend a fortune just to get a vitamin C serum that works well.

Some more affordable options include:

1. Timeless 20% Vitamin C + E Ferulic Acid Serum is a more affordable dupe-style formula that combines L-ascorbic acid with vitamin E and ferulic acid, similar to the classic SkinCeuticals approach.

   

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2. Mad Hippie Vitamin C Serum uses sodium ascorbyl phosphate instead of pure L-ascorbic acid, which makes it easier for some sensitive skin types to tolerate.

   

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3. Naturium Vitamin C Complex Serum combines multiple forms of vitamin C with hydrating ingredients, so it feels a little more comfortable on dry or sensitive skin.

   

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Higher-end vitamin C serums can be worth it too.

SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic is the biggest example of that.

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Part of why it costs so much is because SkinCeuticals holds the original patent on the specific C E Ferulic formula, including the active ingredient combination and the pH it’s stabilized at.

It’s still one of the most respected vitamin C serums for a reason.

But I still don’t think you need to spend $200 to get a vitamin C serum that works well.

Final Thoughts

Vitamin C serums can absolutely be worth using, but a lot of the experience comes down to the formula itself and whether it fits into your skin and routine.

Strong L-ascorbic acid serums work great for certain skin types, while other people end up preferring gentler derivatives instead.

And depending on the formula, two people can end up having completely different experiences with vitamin C.

One person might see brighter, smoother skin in a few weeks, while somebody else ends up irritated before they even finish the bottle.

That’s also part of why I don’t think a vitamin C serum needs to be the most expensive formula on the market to work well.

At this point, I don’t think there’s one perfect vitamin C formula for everybody.

A lot of skincare is just finding products your skin tolerates well and building a routine you can stick with long term.

Cheers,

Fawn

After the stretch I’d been through, waking up with steady energy felt unusual on its own.

I skipped coffee that morning because I didn’t feel like I needed it yet.

Then I put on sunscreen.

Within maybe five or ten minutes, I started feeling exhausted for no obvious reason.

If you’ve ever had that weird moment where your body feels off and you can’t explain why, that’s what this felt like for me.

I remember standing there trying to figure out what had changed so fast.

At first I didn’t even think the sunscreen could be the issue because I’d already been using it for about a week.

But it was the one thing I kept coming back to in my head, so I started Googling.

The sunscreen was Pacifica Glow Baby, a chemical sunscreen I’d been testing for around a week at that point.

I hadn’t connected it to anything before, which is probably why I kept using it.

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The more I searched, the more I started thinking about other times I’d crashed like this and never figured out why.

Back then, I blamed stress, lack of sleep, burnout, or whatever else was happening in my life.

Looking back, I don’t think I would’ve noticed the pattern during that period anyway because my baseline was already wrecked.

I was dealing with bereavement, business stress, back spasms that left me immobilized on New Year’s Eve, ongoing neck pain, sleep issues, and eyes so dry I couldn’t wear contacts anymore.

Everything felt off at once, so isolating one specific trigger would have been almost impossible.

Part of recovering from that period involved tracking my health much more closely than I ever had before.

Three times a day, I logged things like energy levels, sleep quality, pain levels, weight, and whatever else seemed relevant.

It sounds excessive when I describe it out loud, but after months of feeling disconnected from my own body, the spreadsheet helped me rebuild a sense of baseline.

So when my energy crashed after an otherwise good morning, it stood out right away.

This time, instead of brushing past it, I paid attention.

Once I started researching chemical sunscreen reactions, a lot of things clicked into place.

What’s Actually Happening (Or What Might Be)

One thing that kept coming up while I was researching this was salicylate intolerance.

Salicylates are naturally occurring compounds found in foods like berries, olives, avocados, and spices, but synthetic versions also show up in skincare products and medications.

Most people seem to tolerate them without any issue.

But from what I was reading, some people start reacting once exposure builds up enough to push them past a certain threshold.

That caught my attention because the fatigue didn’t happen the first time I used the sunscreen.

I’d already been using it for about a week before I had the energy crash.

One of the posts I found was the Founder’s Formula article about salicylate intolerance and sunscreen reactions.

The writer connected recurring fatigue and skin reactions to a chemical sunscreen after getting diagnosed with salicylate intolerance.

I also found symptom descriptions on salicylate.org mentioning exhaustion, headaches, sinus issues, swollen glands, and joint pain, and parts of it sounded familiar.

The exhaustion part stood out to me because I knew exactly what that feeling was.

My whole body felt off in this weird flu-like way that’s hard to explain unless you’ve experienced it yourself.

Brain fog, exhaustion, trouble concentrating, that sort of thing.

That made more sense to me than thinking one sunscreen application somehow wrecked my entire morning.

I also want to mention something important because people will assume these things are interchangeable: I have no issues with topical salicylic acid in skincare.

BHA toners are fine for me.

Salicylic acid serums are fine too.

The reaction seems specific to certain chemical sunscreens, which also tend to sting my eyes.

I still don’t know what happened that morning.

Part of me wonders whether I accidentally got more of the sunscreen around my eyes than usual, because I know I’ve experienced this weird fatigue before with chemical sunscreens, but not every single time I use them.

On the regulatory side, I also kept running into discussions around how certain chemical UV filters absorb into the skin and how limited some of the long-term safety data still is in the United States.

The FDA has been asking manufacturers for additional safety data on several commonly used sunscreen filters for years, including octisalate and homosalate.

That doesn’t mean these ingredients are proven to be dangerous, and I’m not claiming to be an expert on sunscreen filters or salicylate intolerance.

I was mostly trying to figure out why I felt so exhausted that morning and whether anyone else had experienced something similar.

Most of what I found was a mix of regulatory discussions, personal experiences, forum posts, and broader conversations around salicylate intolerance.

Both compounds are salicylate esters structurally related to salicylic acid.

I can’t say whether that relationship explains reactions like this, but after reading through the research and other people’s experiences, it stopped sounding impossible to me.

I also had a hard time finding much research connecting chemical sunscreen use to fatigue through salicylate sensitivity.

One of the more interesting discussions I found was a Reddit thread in r/SkincareAddiction about sunscreen causing fatigue and sleepiness.

Reddit isn’t the same thing as clinical research, but I found more people describing this than I expected.

I still don’t know whether salicylates are the reason certain chemical sunscreens sometimes make me feel exhausted.

I just know the connection became harder for me to ignore once I started paying attention.

The Part That Confused Me at First: Salicylic Acid vs. Chemical Sunscreens

The confusing part is that salicylic acid products have never caused problems for me.

BHA toners are fine for me.

Salicylic acid serums are fine too.

I’ve never noticed any kind of reaction from them, which is why I almost dismissed the salicylate connection at first.

But the more I read, the more I realized the comparison isn’t as straightforward as it sounds.

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Chemical sunscreen filters like octisalate and homosalate are related to salicylic acid, but they aren’t identical compounds, and they also get used in different ways.

A BHA exfoliant usually gets applied in small amounts to specific areas.

Sunscreen gets spread across your entire face, sometimes your body too, often every day and sometimes multiple times a day.

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That distinction mattered more than I expected.

Looking back, it also explains why chemical sunscreens have always irritated my eyes in a way mineral sunscreens never have.

That’s something I noticed years before I ever started reading about salicylates.

Mineral Sunscreen Is the Answer and Also Kind of a Nightmare

All of this eventually pushed me toward mineral sunscreens, which sounds simple in theory and much less simple in real life.

Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are the only sunscreen filters the FDA currently classifies as safe and effective, and unlike chemical filters, they sit on top of the skin instead of getting absorbed.

The problem is that mineral sunscreen can be really annoying to wear every single day.

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Zinc oxide is basically a heavy white powder, which is why so many mineral sunscreens feel thick, chalky, dry, greasy, or somehow all four at once.

They also get on everything.

I have a white couch that has absolutely suffered because of this.

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The white cast issue is real too.

Tinted formulas help, but finding one that actually matches your skin year-round is harder than people make it sound.

I get noticeably more tan during the summer and lighter during the winter, so a shade that works in July can look completely wrong a few months later.

Texture is another problem.

Some mineral sunscreens wear beautifully under makeup, but those formulas also tend to get expensive fast.

Why Korean and Japanese Sunscreens Feel Easier to Wear

Some of the best sunscreens I’ve come across are from Korea and Japan.

A big reason is that they have access to newer UV filters that still aren’t approved in the United States.

The FDA hasn’t approved a new sunscreen filter since the 1990s, which is part of why a lot of American sunscreens can still feel heavier, greasier, chalkier, or more irritating compared to formulas overseas.

A lot of Korean and Japanese sunscreens also just feel easier to wear every day.

If you’ve struggled with sunscreen texture, white cast, greasiness, pilling under makeup, or that sticky feeling that never fully dries down, these are the ones I’d look at first:

1. Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun is probably one of the most popular Korean sunscreens right now for good reason. It feels more like a moisturizer than a traditional sunscreen and layers well under makeup.

   

   SHOP HERE

2. Bioré UV Aqua Rich is one of the first Japanese formulas I’d recommend if you hate the heavy sunscreen feeling. It absorbs fast, doesn’t leave a white cast, and works well under makeup.

   

   SHOP HERE

3. SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum feels more like a lightweight hydrating serum than sunscreen. It’s a good option if your skin leans dehydrated or if most sunscreens feel too heavy on your face.

   

   SHOP HERE

4. Anua Zero-Cast Moisturizing Finish Sunscreen has more of a dewy, moisturizing finish compared to some of the others. It also includes ingredients like niacinamide, panthenol, and hyaluronic acid, so it feels closer to skincare.

   

   SHOP HERE

5. Innisfree Daily UV Mineral Sunscreen SPF 45 is worth looking at if you prefer mineral sunscreen but still want something more wearable. The green tint helps tone down redness, and the formula feels less dry than a lot of mineral SPFs.

   

   SHOP HERE

A lot of the sunscreens people enjoy wearing most are chemical sunscreens, especially the newer Asian formulas people talk about online.

Meanwhile, a lot of mineral sunscreens still feel thick, chalky, greasy, or all three at once.

So this isn’t really a “chemical sunscreen bad, mineral sunscreen good” argument.

I’m mostly trying to understand why certain formulas seem to affect me differently while still taking sun protection and photoaging seriously.

My Current Anti-Aging Stack

Even with all the downsides of mineral sunscreen, I’m still very focused on anti-aging, especially when it comes to my face.

The skin on your face is thinner, it gets a huge amount of sun exposure over time, and photoaging is very real.

That doesn’t mean I avoid the sun entirely.

I still get sunlight on my body, I take a vitamin D supplement, and my blood work has been fine.

During the summer, I wear hats pretty often too.

But facial sun protection is still something I take seriously, so these are the products I’ve ended up sticking with after testing a ridiculous amount of skincare over the years:

1. Sunscreen

ColorScience Flex One SPF 50+ is one of the few tinted mineral sunscreens I’ve tried that I don’t mind wearing every day.

SHOP HERE

It’s on the heavier side, but it works well as a foundation replacement, which means I’m applying less product overall.

The coverage is good enough that the texture trade-off feels worth it.

2. Retinoid

Tretinoin is prescription-strength and one of the most researched anti-aging ingredients available.

If you’re new to retinoids, I’d start with an OTC retinol before jumping straight into tretinoin.

Your skin needs time to adjust, and going too hard too fast is a good way to end up with irritation, peeling, and a damaged skin barrier.

SHOP HERE

The Naturium Retinol Complex Serum is a good place to start before moving up to tretinoin.

3. Vitamin C

I also use a strong vitamin C serum alongside tretinoin.

People pair vitamin C with tretinoin for a reason.

Tretinoin speeds up skin cell turnover, while vitamin C helps with antioxidant protection and overall brightness.

SHOP HERE

The biggest thing with vitamin C is finding a formula that’s stable.

A lot of them oxidize fast, and once that happens, you’re basically putting expensive orange water on your face.

4. Copper peptides

Mirror Skin copper peptide elixir and the Mirror Skin peptide moisturizer.

The elixir is my actual favorite product in this entire lineup.

SHOP HERE

It’s one of those things where you don’t fully appreciate how much it’s doing until you go a few days without it.

Copper peptides support collagen and elastin synthesis and have a solid body of research behind them.

This combination layers well with everything else in the routine.

The Takeaway

Later that same day, I washed my face around the same time I had a second cup of coffee, so I can’t tell you whether I felt better because the sunscreen was gone, because of the caffeine, or both.

I also wasn’t thinking, “This is the perfect time to run a controlled experiment on myself.”

But the experience stayed in my head because it made me rethink a lot of things I’d brushed off for years.

Looking back, the eye stinging, the random crashes, and the way certain chemical sunscreens sometimes made me feel exhausted didn’t feel disconnected anymore.

I’m still not claiming to have some confirmed diagnosis, and I’m not saying chemical sunscreens are bad for everyone.

Plenty of people use them without any issue.

But if you’ve had moments where you feel exhausted or foggy for reasons you can’t explain, it might be worth paying closer attention to the products you’re using and whether there’s a pattern there.

Cheers,

Fawn

It just kind of crept up on me.

I’ve definitely started developing nasolabial folds as I’ve been aging through my twenties, and they kind of bother me.

It’s annoying because I used to only notice them when the lighting was bad, like when you catch yourself at a weird angle and just move on.

But now I can see them when I wake up in the morning, in completely normal lighting, just there.

It’s subtle, but once you notice it you really can’t stop.

I’m also dealing with enlarged pores, and part of that is on me.

I’ve been wearing a lot more makeup lately, which I actually love.

I’ve been learning how to do it properly, and it’s become this enjoyable process for me.

I like showing up beautifully for the world, I started this newsletter to write about skincare but makeup kind of took over and I don’t regret it.

The problem is that wearing it more often means I sometimes get clogged pores, which is annoying, and clogged pores can make them look even bigger and more noticeable.

Then there's my jawline.

I don't have a double chin, but sometimes I look in the mirror and I'm just like, I wish there was a little bit less there, you know?

I've thought about something like Kybella, which is a treatment that breaks down the fat under your chin, but why do an injectable if I could just try something less invasive at home first.

My eyes are a separate thing entirely.

I’m starting to get crow’s feet, and I don’t mind them that much when I’m smiling because it looks like I’ve lived, signs of life and all that.

What I do mind is that I definitely made it worse myself.

I have this really bad habit of rubbing my eyes hard when I’m tired, and I mean really hard.

When I used to live with my best friend she could literally hear me doing it from another room, and she said it gave her the ick, which, fair enough, lol.

All that tugging on such thin skin over time adds up, and now when I wear makeup I can actually see it.

The crow’s feet make everything get all crinkly in there, the texture shows more, and it’s just one of those things where my own habits made the problem worse.

So that's kind of where I was when ViForme reached out, and in this piece I'm going to walk through what I actually tried, what changed, and whether it made any real difference around my neck and eye area.

What Is ViForme?

ViForme is an at-home device that uses radio frequency and microcurrent, and it felt like something worth trying before going down the injectable route.

SHOP HERE

The appeal was pretty straightforward for me.

I could use it at home, on my own time, without booking anything or planning around a clinic schedule.

Most treatments like this you’re paying per session and committing to a whole program upfront, which is fine, but it does feel like a lot before you even know if it’s going to work for you.

This felt easier to just start.

You buy it once, you have it, you use it when you want and focus on whatever areas you’re actually concerned about.

What I also liked is that it’s doing two things at once:

• Radio frequency stimulates collagen production in the deeper layers of your skin, which is what improves skin fullness and elasticity over time.

• Microcurrent works more on the muscle side, sending small electrical currents that help with that lifted, more sculpted look.

So you're not just treating the surface, you're working a little deeper on both the skin and the structure underneath, which for my neck and eye area specifically felt like exactly what I needed to try.

Overview of the ViForme Device

When I opened the box, the first thing I noticed was the weight.

It’s heavy, which was not what I was expecting at all.

It felt solid, almost like something you’d see sitting in a treatment room at a med spa, that same kind of presence, built to do something.

Not really what I anticipated from something meant for home use.

The device itself is a compact base with a built-in screen, and everything runs through that.

You plug it in and it becomes your control center for the session, and it doesn’t feel like a gadget so much as actual equipment.

Inside the box you get the main device, the power adapter, connectors, and a stack of hydrogel electrode patches, plus a manual and some small tools and extra pieces, which made it feel more like a full setup than just a single product.

The patches are a big part of how this works.

Instead of holding something to your face the entire time, you place them on specific areas like your forehead, under your eyes, cheeks, jawline and neck, and once they’re on the device runs the session for you.

It’s hands-free, which is different from anything I’ve used before.

Most at-home devices I’ve tried, like red light or microneedling, require you to stay engaged the whole time.

This one you set up, press start, and let it run.

The screen shows a full face map and you can adjust the intensity by area, so it feels more advanced than the usual at-home tools without being complicated to figure out.

It’s also the first device I’ve used that combines radio frequency and microcurrent together like this, since most of what I’ve tried before falls into one category or the other.

It feels closer to something you’d get done at a professional level, just adapted for home use, and that’s kind of the whole shift.

At a med spa you’re paying per session and it adds up fast, whereas with this you pay once and then you have it whenever you want.

ViForme Benefits: Performance & Efficacy

Before getting into results, it’s worth talking about the alternative, because the first instinct for a lot of people is to just book something at a clinic.

Fillers and Botox work, and this isn’t about saying otherwise.

But they come with risks people don’t always talk about openly.

Lip flips, for example, can mess with your ability to make certain sounds properly for weeks, and drinking from a straw becomes a whole situation because you can’t form a seal.

Filler migration is a real concern too.

And if you’re thinking about something more serious like a facelift or a deep chemical peel, you’re looking at weeks of downtime and the risk of burns or complications.

These things are not without consequences.

What the device does depends on where you’re using it.

Around the eyes, the radio frequency stimulates collagen production in that thin under-eye skin to improve fullness and elasticity over time, while the microcurrent targets puffiness and circulation more immediately.

For the neck, the radio frequency goes deeper to work on chronic tension and stiffness over time, while the microcurrent helps ease soreness faster.

That combination of something working right away and something working over time is what makes it feel different from single-technology devices.

To put it in perspective, here's how it compares to the standard handheld devices most people are used to:

How to Use ViForme

Using ViForme feels more like setting up a treatment than adding another step to your routine, but it's not complicated once you've done it once.

1. Start with clean, dry skin. Take off your makeup, sunscreen, anything sitting on your skin. You want a clean surface so the patches actually stick and the device can do its job properly.

   

2. Connect and place the patches. You can place them on your forehead, under your eyes, cheeks, jawline, or neck, wherever you’re trying to treat. Make sure you’re pressing them flat against your skin because if the edges lift you’re going to feel it right away. Once everything is connected, the device picks up where you placed them and shows it on the screen, which is kind of cool.

   

3. Adjust your settings. Use the touchscreen to choose your mode, set your RF and microcurrent levels, and pick your treatment time. You’re going to want to start on the lower end, especially if you’re putting patches near your eyes, and then work your way up as you get a feel for it. For your cheeks or jawline you can usually handle more intensity, but I wouldn’t go straight to the highest setting your first time.

   

4. Press start and let it do its thing. You don’t have to move anything around your face or stay focused on it. The patches stay in place and the device runs the session on its own. Most sessions are around 20 minutes and it shuts off when it’s done, so you can just sit there and let it run.

   

5. Take off the patches and clean them. Peel them off, clean the adhesive side, and let them dry before you put the protective film back on. You can reuse them, but you’ll want to replace them over time.

   

6. Keep it simple after. If your skin feels warm you can press a cold compress on it, then go in with a moisturizer. You don’t want to put anything harsh on your skin right after a session.

For more detail you can check their website and manual since they go into everything there.

How Often Should You Use ViForme and What to Expect

This isn’t something you use every day, which was a relief to hear because I don’t need another thing on my morning list.

The recommendation is once a week with about a 7-day gap between sessions, and a full cycle is four sessions total, which gives your skin time to actually respond instead of just being overwhelmed.

If you’re using it for the first time, stick with the default settings for that whole first cycle before changing anything, then adjust based on how your skin feels.

Using it more often doesn’t speed things up and can actually just be too much.

Once you've hit the results you're after, you move into maintenance, which is once a month, and that's one of the things that sets this apart from other devices since those results can last for months rather than being a temporary lift that fades fast.

In terms of what to expect, results aren’t instant but you’re also not waiting months to see anything.

With regular use you start noticing changes within a few weeks, not the next morning, but gradually in a way that makes sense.

A couple of things worth knowing before you start: because it works below the surface it’s suitable for all skin types and tones, and when you use it correctly it’s not something that causes facial fat loss, which I know is a concern some people have with devices like this.

You might also notice some puffiness right after a session but that tends to settle within a few hours.

The schedule is what makes this work, so if you’re going to try it, stick to it.

Does ViForme Work? My Experience

Neck

I started with the neck, and this one wasn’t really about skincare for me at all.

My neck is always tight because I’m hunched over my laptop and my phone basically all day, and even though I get deep tissue massages pretty regularly, the tension just comes back.

So when I saw the manual mention muscle tension and neck discomfort support, I figured that was as good a place to start as any.

Setup was easier than I expected.

I opened the patch, plugged it into the device, and the screen recognized right away that it was the neck patch and set the program for me without me having to do anything.

The manual actually recommends 30 minutes for this area, but I went with the 20-minute option that came up on the screen because I was a little scared to go straight to the longest setting on my first try, if I’m being real.

Once I hit start, the right side of the back of my neck started vibrating first, and it was this gentle, almost rhythmic sensation that I can only describe as kind of soothing.

I kept waiting for heat because of the radio frequency, but it never really came, at least not in any intense way.

I was on my phone the whole time, just sitting there letting it run.

At some point I noticed the stimulation felt much stronger on one side than the other, and I assumed that was just how the device worked until I realized I hadn’t placed the patch in the center of my neck properly.

I paused it, adjusted, and started again, and after that it felt more balanced.

Something I thought was interesting: I could put my fingers right on the patch and not feel it vibrating at all, but I could feel it clearly in my neck.

By the end, my skin felt a little warmer to the touch but there was no redness, no irritation, nothing visually different.

What did feel different was the tension.

My neck felt looser, a little more relaxed than it usually does after a full day of sitting, and for me that alone made it worth trying.

Eyes

I tested the eye area during a week where everything was working against me.

I’d been going to bed past midnight every night because of work, dealing with nasal congestion from allergies, and I’d had a margarita the night before, so when I woke up that morning my dark circles and puffiness were noticeably worse than they usually are.

Not ideal, but a pretty good stress test for the device.

The first thing that tripped me up was the setup.

The patches have to be inserted into the connector a specific way, and when I had them facing the wrong direction the device acted like nothing was plugged in at all.

Once I flipped them the right way it picked up immediately and applied the correct settings for the eye area.

The default intensity came up at 50%, and I tried it for a few seconds before deciding that was way too much stimulation that close to my eyes.

I dropped it all the way down to 25% but then couldn’t feel anything, so I landed on 35% which gave me a vibration I could feel without feeling like I was losing my mind.

And I do want to say, it doesn't hurt at all, but there is something about having that kind of sensation right next to your eyes that your body just doesn't know what to do with at first.

It's a little freaky, just because you're not used to having vibration that close to your eyes, so your biological response is kind of like, what is happening right now. I had to just breathe through it and stay calm.

My instinct was to tense up, and once I got used to it, which took maybe a few minutes, it was fine.

Positioning was something I had to figure out the hard way.

I tried sitting upright so I could keep working, but the connectors are heavier than you’d think, and if you let them hang down they pull the patches right off your face.

I ended up lying down, which I should have just done from the start, and that kept everything in place for the full session.

So if you’re going to do the eye area, just lie down. It’s the move.

After 20 minutes, my dark circles looked about the same, but the puffiness had gone down noticeably.

That part I could see.

After a Few Sessions

I kept coming back to both the neck and eye area over the following weeks, and I do think it made a real difference.

My neck felt less tense on a regular basis, which honestly surprised me the most because I went in thinking that was just my baseline and something I’d always have to manage with massages.

The puffiness around my eyes seemed to go down over time too, and my dark circles looked less intense than they did that first week, which was admittedly my worst week in terms of sleep and stress so there was a lot of room to improve there.

I was also sleeping more during this period and keeping up with my skincare routine, so I want to be upfront that I can’t point to this as the only thing I was doing.

But the changes felt consistent enough that I kept reaching for it, and I don't tend to stick with things that aren't working.

The Bottom Line: Is ViForme Worth It?

If you’ve been thinking about doing something for your skin but injectables feel like too big a step, ViForme is worth trying first.

You buy it once, use it on your own time, and you’re never locked into a clinic schedule or paying per session.

What makes it stand out from other at-home devices is that it’s combining two technologies at once, RF and microcurrent, in a hands-free setup that runs a full session in 20 minutes, once a week. That’s it.

And once you’ve hit the results you’re after, you drop down to once a month to maintain them, which is a very different commitment from the daily routines most at-home tools require.

It’s not going to replace filler or Botox if that’s what you’re after, but if you want something consistent that actually feels like it’s doing something and builds results that last, this delivers.

The neck tension relief was the biggest surprise for me, and the puffiness around my eyes did improve over time, which for someone who stares at a laptop all day and rubs their eyes too much was more than enough reason to keep coming back to it.

You can get ViForme here for 15% off.

Cheers,

Fawn

Skincare, hair care, makeup, and beauty tools are things people use every day, not something that ends up sitting in a drawer.

This year, Mother’s Day falls on Sunday, May 10, so if you’re ordering online, now’s the time to get it sorted.

A lot of brands are also running Mother’s Day promotions right now, including deals you don’t see often.

Below, I’ve pulled together standout brands, current discounts, and specific products that make genuinely good gifts, whether you’re shopping for someone else or just picking something up for yourself.

Everything here is practical, well-loved, and easy to use, which is exactly what makes a gift feel worth it.

1. ZIIP HALO 2.0 Microcurrent Device

This year, I had the chance to try the ZIIP HALO 2.0, and it’s easily one of my top recommendations for Mother’s Day.

SHOP HERE

If your mom is into skincare or wants something that goes beyond just products, this is a really good option.

ZIIP HALO 2.0 is an all-in-one microcurrent device designed to help with lifting, toning, and overall skin clarity.

It connects to an app and offers different treatments depending on what your skin needs, whether that’s sculpting, de-puffing, or improving tone and texture.

I like that it’s not a one-setting device.

Some days you can focus on lifting, other days on breakouts or uneven tone, which makes it feel more realistic to use long term.

I’ve been using it a few times a week, and the results feel cumulative.

My jawline looks more defined, and my skin looks smoother and less puffy when I stay consistent.

It also has a quick 4-minute treatment built in, which makes it easy to keep up with even on busy days.

2. CurrentBody Red Light Helmet

This isn’t a new recommendation for me, but it’s something I’ve consistently used for the past couple of years.

If your mom is dealing with thinning hair or just wants to focus more on scalp health, this is one of the most worthwhile tools to look into.

The CurrentBody Red Light Helmet uses red light therapy to support hair growth by targeting the scalp directly, helping improve circulation and support the hair growth cycle over time.

SHOP HERE

What I like about it is how easy it is to stay consistent.

Each session only takes about 10 minutes, and it’s completely hands-free, so you can use it while getting ready or doing things around the house.

I usually use it a few times a week, sometimes more, and it’s become a steady part of my routine rather than something I use occasionally.

Like most things with hair growth, it’s not about instant results.

It’s about building a consistent habit and supporting the scalp long term.

3. CurrentBody Infrared Sauna Blanket

If your mom is into wellness, recovery, or just wants a way to relax at home, this is a really good gift.

The CurrentBody Infrared Sauna Blanket uses infrared heat to help promote sweating, support circulation, and overall relaxation.

SHOP HERE

It’s basically an at-home sauna that you can use whenever you want without needing to go to the gym.

What I like most is the convenience.

You just set it up, zip yourself in, and relax for about 30 to 45 minutes.

It heats up quickly, and it’s easy to fit into your routine, especially on days when you don’t want to leave the house.

I’ve used it regularly, especially for recovery and winding down, and I’ve also noticed my skin looks clearer and more refreshed when I stay consistent.

4. CurrentBody Series 2 LED Light Therapy Mask

For moms who are into skincare or want something more advanced than just products, this is one of the best tools to look into.

The Series 2 LED Light Therapy Mask uses red and near-infrared light to support collagen production, skin renewal, and overall skin health.

SHOP HERE

This version fits better, especially around the chin area, which makes it more comfortable and easier to use consistently.

Each session only takes about 10 minutes, and it’s easy to wear while doing other things, which makes it realistic to keep up with long term.

I use this regularly because it fits easily into my routine and feels worth staying consistent with.

5. Medik8 Skincare

If you’re looking for a Mother’s Day gift that feels thoughtful but still practical, Medik8 is an easy option.

Their formulas work well with actives like retinoids, so everything feels supportive rather than harsh or complicated.

The Advanced Ceramide Night Cream is one I keep coming back to, especially when my skin feels dry or needs extra support. It was formulated to be used after retinoids, and it helps keep the skin comfortable without feeling heavy.

SHOP HERE

I’ve also been using their Liquid Peptides, which is one of my go-to hydrating serums. It layers easily and helps keep my skin looking smoother and more balanced.

SHOP HERE

For gifting, they also have a few kits that are currently 25% off (no code needed).

The Glow Revival Kit focuses on hydration and brightness.

SHOP HERE

The Nighttime Reset is more targeted toward smoothing and the under-eye area.

SHOP HERE

The Peptide Boosters set is centered around firming and fine lines.

SHOP HERE

Everything feels easy to use and actually fits into a routine, which is why it works well as a gift.

6. Jolie Shower Filter

This is a great option for moms who deal with dry skin, frizzy hair, or just want an easy upgrade to their daily routine.

I used to ignore water filters for years, but after trying the Jolie Shower Filter, I completely changed my mind.

SHOP HERE

It helps filter out things like chlorine and other impurities in your water, which can make a noticeable difference in both skin and hair.

After installing it, my hair felt softer, looked less frizzy, and my skin didn’t feel as dry after showering.

It’s one of those changes you don’t think about at first, but you notice over time.

It’s also really easy to install and fits into your routine without any extra effort, which makes it a great practical gift that actually gets used every day.

7. Naked & Thriving Skincare Sets

For moms who are into skincare and like curated sets, Naked & Thriving has a really good Mother’s Day sale right now.

They have select sets up to 30% off, which makes it a good time to pick up a full routine instead of buying products individually.

The sets usually include a mix of serums and creams, like their Renew resurfacing serum, Prevent face oil, and Restore night cream, so it’s a more complete approach rather than just one product.

SHOP HERE

I like that everything feels simple and cohesive, especially if you’re gifting and don’t want to overthink building a routine yourself.

They’re also offering free mini hand creams with set purchases, which makes it feel a bit more like a full gift.

8. Wavytalk Turblow Pro Hair Dryer

A practical Mother’s Day gift that actually gets used.

The Wavytalk Turblow Pro is a fast-drying hair dryer that comes with attachments, making it easy to switch between drying and basic styling.

SHOP HERE

I like that it feels more elevated than a basic dryer but is still straightforward to use, especially if you don’t want something complicated.

It’s also one of those gifts that doesn’t just sit in a drawer.

9. Saie Makeup

A really nice option for Mother’s Day, especially if you’re putting together a simple makeup set that still feels elevated.

Saie has a range of makeup products that are easy to use and feel comfortable on the skin, which makes them a good pick if you don’t want anything too heavy or complicated.

I’ve tried a few of their products, and what stands out is how effortless everything feels.

Nothing looks overdone, and everything blends in easily.

The Dew Blush is the one I reach for the most, especially in the shade Chilly. It gives a natural, flushed look and blends in seamlessly.

SHOP HERE

I’ve also tried their SuperSuede Powder Blush, which blends nicely but has a bit more fallout, and their brush, which I like because it doesn’t leave fibers on the skin.

SHOP HERE

Their Slip Tint Baked Setting Powder has been another favorite, especially for keeping makeup in place without looking heavy.

SHOP HERE

I also like the Glossybounce Lip Gloss Oil.

It’s hydrating, not sticky, and easy to wear day to day.

SHOP HERE

Overall, everything I’ve tried from Saie feels lightweight, easy to use, and something I actually keep in my routine, which makes it a really good option for gifting.

Extra Brands With Active Discounts Using My Codes

These brands aren’t part of the main Mother’s Day roundup above, but you can still save using my codes. If you already shop from any of these, it’s worth checking before you place an order.

Allies of Skin
WHERE: allies.shop
WHAT: 20% off
CODE: SKINCARESTACY

Vetted Dermlab
WHERE: vetteddermlab.com
WHAT: 15% off
CODE: FAWN15

Kora Organics
WHERE: koraorganics.com
WHAT: 15% off
CODE: FAWN15

Stylevana
WHERE: stylevana.com
WHAT: 10% off
CODE: SHOPBTF

NEWA
WHERE: mynewa.com
WHAT: 15% off
CODE: FAWN15

BloomEffects
WHERE: bloomeffects.com
WHAT: 20% off
CODE: FAWN

PMD Beauty
WHERE: pmdbeauty.com
WHAT: 30% off
CODE: FAWN30

Fur
WHERE: furyou.com
WHAT: 15% off
CODE: FAWN15

KOBA Skincare
WHERE: kobaskincare.com
WHAT: 20% off
CODE: FAWN20

Epres
WHERE: epres.com
WHAT: 20% off
CODE: FAWN20

Dermaflash
WHERE: dermaflash.com
WHAT: 20% off
CODE: fawn

Closing Thoughts

At the end of the day, the best Mother’s Day gifts are the ones that actually get used.

It doesn’t have to be complicated.

A few thoughtful, practical pieces that fit into someone’s routine will always go further than something that looks good but sits untouched.

If anything here caught your attention, this is a good time to pick it up before Mother’s Day.

Cheers,

Fawn

We’ve all bought items that didn’t quite hit the mark.

Instead of letting them gather dust, why not repurpose them?

I’ve learned some nifty tricks to turn these almost-theres into everyday essentials, saving you both cash and time.

In this article, I’ll show you some smart ways to make the most of what’s already in your stash.

1. Repurpose Face Wash as Body Wash

If your face wash isn’t suitable for your facial skin, don’t throw it away.

Instead, use it as a body wash.

Face washes are usually gentle, making them perfect for areas like your chest, back, and shoulders.

This way, you don’t waste the product, and your skin still gets the benefits.

Using a nice, gentle cleanser all over feels great and can be soothing.

It’s a simple trick to make the most of what you already have, turning a potential waste into a win for your skincare routine.

In fact, I’ve used a benzoyl peroxide face wash as body wash in acne-prone areas for years!

2. Use a Spoon for Depuffing Eyes

If you wake up with puffy eyes, a simple trick can help: chill a spoon in the fridge overnight.

In the morning, press the cold spoon gently against your under-eye area to reduce swelling and make you look more awake.

It’s the same reason I like Hero Cosmetics’ eye cream: it has a metal applicator that feels cool against your skin, soothing and reducing puffiness just like the cold spoon trick.

It’s an easy and effective way to start your day looking refreshed.

3. Old T-Shirts to Dry Your Hair

For curly or frizzy hair, switch to using an old cotton t-shirt instead of a towel.

Towels can create friction and lead to frizz, but a soft cotton t-shirt is much gentler.

Avoid rubbing your hair; instead, try the ‘plop’ method: lay the t-shirt flat, flip your wet hair onto it, and wrap the shirt around your head.

This technique helps define your curls and reduces frizz, leaving your hair looking smoother and more manageable.

4. Old Mascara Wand as Brow Brush

Clean an old mascara wand and use it to tame and shape your eyebrows.

Wash the wand thoroughly to remove any leftover mascara.

Once clean, use it to brush your eyebrows into place, giving you precise control over stray hairs.

This simple hack helps keep your brows looking neat and polished without the need for expensive tools.

It’s a budget-friendly and eco-friendly way to make the most of what you already have.

5. Lip Balm for Cuticles

Did you know you can apply lip balm to your cuticles to keep them moisturized and prevent hangnails?

Lip balm is designed to hydrate and protect, making it perfect for soothing dry, cracked cuticles.

Simply massage a small amount onto your cuticles, especially before bed, to lock in moisture overnight.

This easy hack helps maintain the health and appearance of your nails without needing multiple products.

It’s also a convenient solution when you’re on the go and don’t have cuticle oil handy.

6. Hair Conditioner as Shaving Cream

Use hair conditioner as a shaving cream alternative.

It provides a smooth surface for the razor to glide, reducing the risk of nicks and cuts.

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Apply a generous amount to the area you want to shave, let it sit for a minute to soften the hair, and then shave as usual.

This method not only gives you a close shave but also leaves your skin feeling soft and moisturized.

Personally, I use Naturium Glow Getter to shave and never experience razor burn.

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Plus, the added moisture from the conditioner helps prevent irritation, leaving your skin feeling pampered.

7. DIY Curl Refresher Spray

Take an old spray bottle, fill it with water, and use it to refresh your curls by dampening them.

• Begin by lightly misting your hair to rejuvenate your curls.

• Follow up by applying curl cream to add definition and hold.

• Finally, apply a small amount of hair oil to seal in moisture and add shine.

This method helps maintain frizz-free, bouncy curls without needing a full wash and style.

It’s ideal for refreshing your hair on non-wash days or whenever your curls need a little extra attention.

8. Reuse Sheet Mask Packaging

After using a sheet mask, squeeze out any remaining serum from the packaging and apply it to your neck, hands, or décolletage.

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The leftover serum is packed with beneficial ingredients that can nourish and hydrate other areas of your skin.

Gently massage the serum into your neck to keep the delicate skin firm and moisturized.

Apply it to your hands to give them a soft, youthful appearance, and don’t forget your décolletage (aka your upper chest area).

This simple step maximizes the benefits of your sheet mask and ensures that no product is wasted.

9. Repurpose Facial Oil for Cuticle Care

If facial oil is too heavy for your face, use it to moisturize your cuticles and nails.

Facial oils are rich and nourishing, making them perfect for hydrating dry, cracked cuticles and nails.

Simply massage a few drops into your cuticles and nails to keep them soft and healthy.

This is a great way to repurpose products that may not suit your face but still offer moisturizing benefits.

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Some of my favorite facial oils are True Botanicals Pure Radiance Oil and Sunday Riley U.F.O. Ultra-Clarifying Face Oil.

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Even if they are too heavy for your face, they can still provide excellent hydration for other areas.

Be careful though, the Sunday Riley one is excellent for acne thanks to salicylic acid which can dry out your skin a little.

10. Extend Your Skincare Routine Beyond Your Face

Anything you can do to your face, you can reasonably do to your neck, upper chest, and the backs of your hands.

These areas are often exposed to the same environmental stressors as your face and can benefit from the same skincare treatments.

For instance, I use an extra pea-sized amount of retinoid for those areas in addition to the one pea-sized amount I use for my face.

This helps to maintain a consistent anti-aging routine and keeps these often-neglected areas looking youthful.

You can do the same with other skincare products like exfoliants, hydrating serums, moisturizers, and oils.

Extending your skincare routine to these parts of your body ensures that your skin stays healthy and glowing all over.

Final Thoughts

Not every product is going to work perfectly for your face, and that’s normal.

What matters is how you use what you already have.

A lot of these products can still be useful in other ways, whether that’s on your body, your hair, or different areas of your routine.

Repurposing your skincare helps you cut down on waste, save money, and get more value out of everything you buy.

Before you replace a product, it’s worth asking if there’s another way to use it first.

Cheers,

Fawn

For example, if you’ve ever had stubborn skin texture, exfoliation might have been the right move!

However, with so many options available, choosing the right type of exfoliant can be overwhelming.

In this guide, I’ll break down the differences between chemical and physical exfoliants, their benefits, and how to incorporate them into your routine for optimal results.

What Are Chemical Exfoliants?

Chemical exfoliants work by breaking down the bonds between dead skin cells, allowing them to be easily sloughed off.

Unlike physical exfoliants, which rely on manual scrubbing, chemical exfoliants use active ingredients to dissolve and remove dead skin cells.

Types of Chemical Exfoliants

• AHAs (Alpha Hydroxy Acids): These water-soluble acids, derived from fruits and milk, work on your skin’s surface. Common AHAs include glycolic acid and lactic acid, which are excellent for addressing anti-aging and dark spots.

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• BHAs (Beta Hydroxy Acids): Oil-soluble acids that penetrate deeper into the pores, making them ideal for oily and acne-prone skin. Salicylic acid is the most well-known BHA and is excellent for treating acne on your skin.

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• PHAs (Polyhydroxy Acids): Larger molecules than AHAs and BHAs, which makes them less irritating. They work on your skin’s surface and are suitable for sensitive skin. Examples include gluconolactone and lactobionic acid, both of which are beneficial for sensitive skin.

  

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Benefits of Chemical Exfoliants

Chemical exfoliants offer numerous benefits, making them suitable for various skin types and concerns. Understandably, whichever one you choose will depend on your specific needs.

For Oily and Acne-Prone Skin

Chemical exfoliants like salicylic acid can penetrate deep into your pores, removing excess oil and dead skin cells that can lead to breakouts.

Regular use can help keep pores clear and reduce the frequency of acne flare-ups.

For Dry and Mature Skin

AHAs like glycolic acid and lactic acid help remove dead skin cells from the surface, promoting smoother and more hydrated skin.

These acids also stimulate collagen production, which can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

My advice: Start with a low concentration of chemical exfoliants and gradually increase as your skin builds tolerance. Look for products that combine AHAs and BHAs for a balanced approach. Murad’s AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser and MaeLove’s AHA BHA Serum are great options to consider.

Popular Chemical Exfoliants in Skincare

AHAs: Glycolic Acid and Lactic Acid

• Glycolic Acid: Derived from sugar cane, glycolic acid is the smallest AHA molecule, allowing it to penetrate the skin deeply. It effectively removes dead skin cells, brightens our complexions, and improves skin texture.

• Lactic Acid: Derived from milk, lactic acid is a gentler AHA than glycolic acid, suitable for sensitive skin. It exfoliates your skin surface while providing hydration. It’s a good middle-ground between glycolic acid and mandelic acid, and I especially like it for people with stubborn skin texture.

• Mandelic Acid: Derived from almonds, mandelic is probably my favorite AHA for its gentle exfoliation properties. Even better, it helps fight fungus (think dandruff) and can help with acne due its semi-lipophilic characteristics. It acts somewhat like a BHA in that sense.

BHAs: Salicylic Acid

• Salicylic Acid: Derived from willow bark. It penetrates deep into the pores, dissolving excess oil and dead skin cells. This makes it particularly effective for treating acne and blackheads.

PHAs: Gluconolactone and Lactobionic Acid

PHAs are gentler than AHAs and BHAs, making them suitable for sensitive skin.

They work on your skin’s surface to exfoliate without causing irritation.

Gluconolactone and lactobionic acid are common PHAs that also provide hydration and antioxidant benefits.

Full disclosure: some people might try PHAs and not really experience that many benefits. If you’re new to skincare and know you have reactive skin, PHAs might be suitable for you, but otherwise, I recommend checking out a lactic or mandelic acid product.

My advice: Incorporate these chemical exfoliants into your routine based on your skin type and concerns. Start with a low concentration and gradually increase as your skin adjusts.

What Are Physical Exfoliants?

Physical exfoliants use manual scrubbing to remove dead skin cells from the surface.

These exfoliants can be in the form of scrubs, brushes, or cloths.

Types of Physical Exfoliants

• Scrubs: Contain small, gritty particles like sugar, salt, or microbeads that physically slough off dead skin cells.

• Brushes: Manual or electronic brushes that exfoliate the skin with bristles.

• Cloths: Specially designed cloths, pads, or gloves with a textured surface that exfoliates when rubbed against your skin.

Benefits of Physical Exfoliants

Physical exfoliants can provide instant results by removing dead skin cells and revealing smoother skin. They are particularly effective for certain areas of the body, like the elbows, knees, and feet.

For All Skin Types

When used correctly, physical exfoliants can benefit all skin types. They help to smooth rough patches and improve the overall texture of your skin.

Immediate Results

Physical exfoliants provide immediate gratification by visibly removing dead skin cells. This instant smoothness and radiance make them popular for pre-event skin prep.

My advice: Avoid using physical exfoliants on your face as much as possible. Choose physical exfoliants with gentle, rounded particles to avoid micro-tears in the skin. Avoid over-exfoliating, which can lead to irritation and damage. Nerra's Exfoliating Body Glove Set and First Aid Beauty KP Bump Eraser Body Scrub are excellent options for physical exfoliation.

Popular Physical Exfoliants in Skincare

Scrubs: Sugar, Salt, and Microbead Scrubs

• Sugar Scrubs: Sugar is a gentle exfoliant that dissolves in water, reducing the risk of over-exfoliation. It’s suitable for sensitive skin and provides a mild exfoliation.

• Salt Scrubs: Coarse salt scrubs offer a more vigorous exfoliation and are ideal for rougher areas of the body.

• Microbead Scrubs: Made of synthetic or natural beads, these scrubs provide a uniform exfoliation. However, you’ll likely want to avoid plastic microbeads as they are harmful to the environment.

Tools: Brushes, Sponges, and Exfoliating Cloths

• Brushes: Facial and body brushes come in various bristle types and can provide thorough exfoliation. They are great for achieving a deep clean but should be used gently.

• Sponges: Exfoliating sponges, like konjac sponges, offer a gentle exfoliation suitable for daily use.

• Exfoliating Cloths and Gloves: These cloths and gloves have a textured surface that physically removes dead skin cells when rubbed against your skin. They are convenient and effective for quick exfoliation.

My advice: Use physical exfoliants once or twice a week, depending on your skin type and sensitivity. I like to use them before shaving. Avoid using them on broken or irritated skin. And in my opinon, there's never a reason to use physical exfoliants on your face unless you realllllly want to.

Combining Chemical and Physical Exfoliation

Combining both types of exfoliants can provide comprehensive benefits, but it’s important to do so safely.

How to Safely Combine Both Types

To safely combine chemical and physical exfoliation, alternate between them rather than using them simultaneously.

For example, use a chemical exfoliant on one day and a physical exfoliant later in the week.

This approach prevents over-exfoliation and allows your skin time to recover.

Tips on Frequency and Routine Integration

Start with a gentle chemical exfoliant and gradually introduce physical exfoliation into your routine.

Pay attention to your skin’s response and adjust the frequency accordingly.

For most skin types, exfoliating 2-3 times a week is sufficient.

If you’re using other actives, like retinol and vitamin C, you’ll want to exfoliate less often.

My advice: Find a balance that works for your skin. Use chemical exfoliants for deeper, more targeted exfoliation, and physical exfoliants for immediate smoothness. Allies of Skin Mandelic Pigment Corrector and Murad Deep Relief Acne Treatment can be incorporated into a balanced routine.

Product Recommendations

Here are some top exfoliant products tailored to different skin types:

• For Oily/Acne-Prone Skin:

  1. Paula’s Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant: A salicylic acid serum that penetrates deep into the pores to clear acne and blackheads.

     

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  2. Neostrata Glycolic Renewal Serum: A glycolic acid toner that exfoliates the skin surface and reduces oiliness.

     

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• For Dry/Sensitive Skin:

  1. Sunday Riley Good Genes: A lactic acid treatment that gently exfoliates while providing hydration. Super creamy texture. I like using this in place of tretinoin about once or twice a week.

     

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  2. Medik8 Press & Glow: A PHA-based toner that offers mild exfoliation without irritation. For what it’s worth, I’m not the biggest fan of PHAs, and I generally opt for azelaic acid or mandelic acid instead.

     

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My advice: Choose products based on your skin type and concerns. Start with lower concentrations and frequencies to see how your skin reacts before increasing.

How to Incorporate Exfoliation into Your Routine

Incorporating exfoliation into your skincare routine can maximize its benefits while minimizing the risk of irritation.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Cleanse: Start with a gentle cleanser to remove impurities.

2. Exfoliate: Apply your chosen chemical or physical exfoliant.

3. Hydrate (optional): Use a hydrating product to prevent barrier disruption

4. Serum: Apply a serum that addresses your specific skin concerns.

5. Moisturize: Follow with a moisturizer to lock in hydration.

6. Sunscreen (AM only): If desired, finish your morning routine with sunscreen.

Tips on Avoiding Over-Exfoliation

• Frequency: Limit exfoliation to 2-3 times a week to avoid irritation. You can use BHAs for acne more frequently than AHAs for anti-aging as they tend to be less irritating.

• Observation: Monitor your skin’s response and adjust the frequency if needed.

• Hydration: Ensure you’re using hydrating products to support your skin barrier. I love this barrier repair serum from Cocokind.

Potential Side Effects and Precautions

While exfoliation can significantly improve your skin’s texture and appearance, it’s important to be aware of potential side effects and take precautions to avoid damage.

Possible Side Effects

• Irritation and Redness: Over-exfoliation or using too strong an exfoliant can cause irritation and redness, especially for sensitive skin types.

• Dryness and Peeling: Excessive exfoliation can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness and peeling.

• Breakouts: Over-exfoliating can disrupt the skin barrier, making it more susceptible to breakouts and other skin issues.

Precautions

• Patch Test: Always perform a patch test when trying a new exfoliant to ensure it doesn’t cause adverse reactions.

• Start Slow: Begin with a low concentration and gradually increase as your skin builds tolerance.

• Avoid Overlapping Actives: Be cautious when combining exfoliants with other active ingredients like retinoids or strong acids to prevent irritation.

• Hydration is Key: Follow exfoliation with a hydrating serum and moisturizer to replenish moisture and support the skin barrier.

• Sun Protection: Exfoliation can make your skin more sensitive to the sun. Consider applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen during the day, seeking shade as necessary, or wearing protective clothing.

My advice: Listen to your skin. If you notice signs of irritation or sensitivity, scale back on exfoliation and focus on soothing and hydrating products until your skin recovers.

The Bottom Line

Choosing the right exfoliant can make a big difference in how your skin looks and feels.

The goal isn’t to exfoliate more. It’s to exfoliate smarter.

Once you understand the difference between chemical and physical exfoliants, it becomes much easier to pick what actually works for your skin.

Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Chemical exfoliants help clear pores and smooth texture over time.

• Physical exfoliants give instant smoothness but should be used carefully.

• You don’t need both at the same time. Alternating is usually enough.

At the end of the day, it comes down to your skin.

Pay attention to how it reacts and adjust as needed.

And don’t forget, exfoliation is just one step. Your results will always come from consistency, a simple routine, and not overdoing it.

Cheers,

Fawn

If you’re anything like me, you probably think you already have your skincare handled.

I’ve always felt like I had mine handled.

Tretinoin, vitamin C, plus things like at-home dermaplaning and light microneedling.

Nothing extreme, but enough that a professional treatment felt unnecessary.

The one facial I’d gotten before was a quick, cheap service a couple of years ago.

My skin looked a little glowy after. I didn’t think much of it.

So when I was invited to try the Glo2Facial, I said yes out of curiosity.

I wanted to see what a proper professional treatment would feel like compared to everything I’d been doing on my own.

I went in with a bare face, right after showering, and didn’t put anything on my skin.

What I didn’t expect was how different my skin would look after, or how much more like myself I’d feel walking out.

If you’ve been doing everything right and your skin still isn’t where you want it to be, this is worth reading.

My Skin Going Into This

My skin wasn’t at its best walking in.

No severe acne, but a long history of hormonal breakouts along my chin.

The kind that cycle in and out around your period, when testosterone spikes during days one through seven and ramps up oil production.

Men express those androgens along the jaw and cheeks because that’s where beard hair grows. We don’t grow beards, so instead we get breakouts.

Fun trade-off, right?

I also have hyperpigmentation along my cheekbones.

In a weird way I’ve always kind of liked it.

It creates a natural contour effect, almost like a built-in shadow.

But it also means my skin tone isn’t even, and that’s the first visible sign of aging.

Uneven tone shows up before fine lines or wrinkles.

Even after years of tretinoin and vitamin C, which are considered first-line treatments for hyperpigmentation, I’d hit a wall.

Progress had stalled.

That’s the point where home actives stop being enough and you start looking at treatment-resistant hyperpigmentation and textured acne scarring that needs something more.

But if I’m being honest, it wasn’t just that.

I’d been going through a rough patch. Grief, bereavement, just life being heavier than usual.

And when you’re in that kind of place, even basic things start to slip.

It was harder to stay consistent. Some nights I didn’t even feel like washing my face.

My skin reflected that.

I had more blackheads than usual, my complexion looked flat no matter what I tried, and everything felt congested and uneven.

There were days I’d look in the mirror and just feel off, like I didn’t recognize myself.

That’s where my skin was going into this.

I was curious what an hour on that treatment bed would do.

What the Treatment Felt Like, Step by Step

Leslie greeted me at Only Glam Med Spa and got me settled.

She cleansed my face with cotton pads to lift the surface oils, wrapped a headband around my hair, and we began.

The Glo2Facial typically starts with RF Pro, short for Radio Frequency Pro, a gentle radiofrequency step designed to boost collagen and prep the skin for the rest of the treatment. In my case, we moved straight into the next steps based on my skin type.

Step one: the primer gel. It’s applied first to activate the OxyPod and prep the skin. It barely felt like anything.

Step two: Oxfoliation. This is where it started to feel different.

The OxyPod creates a CO₂-rich environment on the surface of the skin.

Your body reads that as a lack of oxygen and responds by sending more oxygenated blood to the area, which is the point.

That’s how the treatment brings nutrients up to the skin from within, instead of just sitting on the surface.

On my skin, it felt tingly, with a mix of warm and cool and a faint vibration underneath, with a bit of sting at first.

Within a few seconds, my skin adjusted and it started to feel more comfortable.

Leslie removed everything with warm cotton pads, which felt calming.

Step three: Ultrasound. A different feeling. There was no tingling. The device felt warm as it moved across my forehead, cheeks, and chin. It felt like the Clarify serum was being pressed deeper with each pass. It was soothing.

Step four: Detox, which mimics a lymphatic massage. The device switched to a soft vibrating setting with a gentle red glow, and Leslie used more pressure as she moved it across my face. This step helps move fluid through the skin and improve circulation, which can reduce puffiness and redness. By the time she finished, my skin felt clean and smooth without being tight or stripped.

Nothing about it felt aggressive. That surprised me, because exfoliation was happening.

When I left, they gave me a gift bag to take home.

It included a holographic Glo2Facial tote, a black pouch, under-eye patches, and a lavender crossbody bag.

It was a nice touch after the whole experience.

Why the Clarify OxyPod and What’s In It

There are different Glo2Facial OxyPod options depending on your skin goals, whether that’s refinement, hydration, or pigmentation.

Leslie recommended Clarify based on what I’d described, including congestion and hormonal breakouts.

The Clarify formulation is designed for breakouts, congestion, and post-acne marks.

The key ingredients include bamboo charcoal, camellia extract, and mandelic acid.

Bamboo charcoal is a strong antioxidant that helps draw out impurities.

Camellia extract helps calm the skin, which is useful for skin that’s reactive or prone to redness.

Mandelic acid is a gentler exfoliating acid. It has a larger molecular size than glycolic acid, so it penetrates more slowly, which makes it easier to tolerate while still helping improve texture and breakouts.

The combination made sense for what I was dealing with.

And the way it felt on my skin reflected that. It felt effective without being harsh.

What Happens After: The Skin Regeneration Piece

I looked in the mirror right after, and my skin looked calmer and brighter, with less blotchy areas.

The texture felt smoother.

I still had a few pimples from the days before. They were raised and red, but the rest of my skin felt more even.

My pores looked smaller too. With less buildup, they looked less noticeable.

What surprised me most was the lack of irritation. I could feel the exfoliation happening, but my skin showed zero redness afterward. Most treatments that exfoliate this thoroughly leave some kind of reaction.

Leslie explained that this is how the treatment is designed to work.

The Glo2Facial doesn’t force a reaction like a peel or laser. It supports your skin so it can regenerate from within, working with your natural cell turnover.

The Oxfoliation step brings more oxygen to the skin, the ultrasound supports serum absorption, and the lymphatic massage moves fluid.

Each step is building a better environment for your skin to do its own work.

I asked Leslie when I could expect to see the full results, and she said it typically shows up around one to two weeks in.

For hyperpigmentation, she said it usually takes three to four sessions to see more noticeable change.

After years of layering stronger actives and thinking that was the only way forward, that idea landed in a new way.

Maybe your skin doesn’t need to be pushed harder. Maybe it needs to heal.

The Morning After

I stood in front of the mirror longer than usual the next morning, which isn’t something I do unless I’m picking myself apart.

This time, I wasn’t.

I just stood there looking, then caught myself touching my skin because it didn’t feel like mine. The texture was gone, or at least it felt that way. It was smoother than it had been in a while.

At one point, I started thinking about how foundation would glide on, how different makeup would sit on top of this. That thought stayed with me as I got ready.

I didn’t do much that morning. I followed Leslie’s aftercare instructions and kept everything focused on hydration with a serum, a bit of moisturizer, and sunscreen before heading out.

Nothing complicated, but it felt right.

My skin looked better than it had in months, and for once, I wasn’t standing there trying to figure out what needed fixing.

I didn’t have makeup on, and I still felt pretty.

Final thoughts

I went into this treatment skeptical. I read the studies, I use the actives. A facial wasn’t going to show me something I hadn’t already figured out on my own.

I was wrong.

The last few months have been hard. Bereavement does something to you that’s difficult to explain until you’re in it.

You stop taking care of yourself the way you would because the energy to maintain it just disappears.

My routine slipped and my skin started to show it.

There's something nobody talks about when it comes to skincare and grief.

When you spend years building a skincare routine as involved as mine, you can start to feel like it's what's holding everything together.

When life gets hard and the routine slips, you look in the mirror and feel ugly. Ugly in a way that tired and dull don't quite cover. Like you've lost something you can't get back.

The morning after the Glo2Facial, I stood in front of the mirror longer than usual.

My skin felt smooth in a way it hadn’t in months. I wasn’t wearing anything on my face and I still felt pretty.

I smiled at myself. That hadn’t been happening in a while, and I didn’t realize how much I’d missed it until that moment.

It felt like the kick I needed to remind myself that I’m beautiful without all of it.

The Glo2Facial reminded me that years of pushing harder wasn't the answer. Giving your skin the right conditions and trusting it to do the rest is. That reframe meant something.

If you’ve been doing everything right and your skin still isn’t where you want it to be, this might be worth trying.

Find a Glo2Facial Provider Nearest You and ask about the Clarify customization if breakouts or hyperpigmentation have been on your mind.

Your skin knows what to do. Sometimes it just needs a little help getting there.

Cheers,

Fawn

A few years ago, my own breakouts got bad enough that I basically became obsessed with figuring out how skincare actually works.

And yeah, I went through the phase where I just grabbed whatever said “oil-free” on the label and hoped for the best.

Didn’t really work out. Shocking, I know.

It took some time, a lot of failed products, and way too many hours reading ingredient labels to finally find stuff that actually helps.

If you want to know about foods and habits that affect your skin, I talk about that in this post.

But today I’m focusing on products, specifically the ones I keep coming back to because they work.

Most of the good ones have at least one of these key ingredients in them:

• Salicylic Acid: Deep-cleansing exfoliant that unclogs pores and sloughs off dead skin cells, targeting acne at its source.

• Benzoyl Peroxide: Potent antibacterial agent that zaps acne-causing bacteria and reduces inflammation for clearer skin.

• Mandelic Acid: Gentle exfoliant derived from almonds that dissolves dead skin cells and improves skin texture without irritation.

• Sulfur: Natural element that absorbs excess oil and unclogs pores, reducing acne and preventing new breakouts.

• Azelaic Acid: Multi-tasking powerhouse that diminishes acne, fades dark spots, and calms inflammation for smoother, more even skin.

• Zinc Oxide: Soothing mineral that reduces inflammation, controls oil, and acts as a protective barrier against acne-causing irritants.

So, let’s dive into the top 10 acne-fighting products you can use at home.

1. Best overall: Adapalene Gel 0.1%

If you’re dealing with acne, Differin gel might just become your new best friend.

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It works best for mild to moderate breakouts, and adapalene is one of the better retinoid options out there for keeping acne under control.

The catch is that it’s not a spot treatment.

You can’t just use it once or twice and expect results the way you might with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide.

Retinoids work by speeding up how fast your skin cells turn over, and that cycle takes about 28 days.

So you really do have to be consistent, and most people need 3 to 6 months before they see a real difference.

Start with a pea-sized amount 2 to 3 times a week, then slowly work up to 5 or 6 nights.

Always apply it at night, and follow up with a moisturizer.

Beyond the gel itself, I also really like two other products from the Differin line.

The Daily Deep Cleanser has 5% benzoyl peroxide, which treats and prevents breakouts without being too harsh.

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It soaks up extra oil and releases a light moisturizer that won’t clog your pores.

The Resurfacing Scar Gel is great for what acne leaves behind.

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It helps fade post-acne marks, smooth rough texture, and firm the skin with peptides, all while keeping things hydrated.

2. Best for Body Acne: PanOxyl 10% Benzoyl Peroxide Wash

Benzoyl peroxide is honestly one of my favorite acne ingredients, and PanOxyl is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to use it.

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It works by killing the bacteria that cause breakouts in the first place, making it especially good for oily skin.

Personally, I found it just as effective as prescription treatments for inflammatory acne.

It is generally considered stronger than salicylic acid though, so if you have sensitive skin, you may want to patch test or start with a lower concentration.

The nice thing about benzoyl peroxide is how flexible it is.

You can use it as a cleanser, a leave-on gel, a mask, or a spray depending on what works for your routine.

For body acne specifically, I also really like Naturium’s Salicylic Acid Body Spray 2%.

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The 360-degree nozzle makes it easy to hit spots on your back or shoulders that are hard to reach.

It has encapsulated salicylic acid and niacinamide to help balance oil and calm irritation, plus a brightening blend to even out skin tone and a fermented complex that adds hydration for smoother skin overall.

3. Best Serum/Gel: Replenix BP Acne Gel 10% Spot Treatment or Naturium Azelaic Topical Acid 10%

If you want something to target individual blemishes, Replenix BP Acne Gel is worth trying.

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It uses medical-grade benzoyl peroxide, so it’s a step up from your average drugstore spot treatment.

Apply it directly to problem areas and it works to clear existing breakouts while stopping new ones from forming.

It’s strong, so results tend to come pretty quickly.

For something a little gentler, Naturium Azelaic Topical Acid 10% is one of my all-time favorites.

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It’s especially good if you’re dealing with acne alongside red marks, rosacea, or just general uneven skin tone.

The formula combines a glycinated azelaic acid complex with niacinamide, vitamin C, and coffee seed extract, which together help brighten skin and improve tone over time.

It also balances oil without drying your skin out.

Sensitive skin types tend to do really well with this one.

4. Best Face Mask: Sofie Pavitt BP Mask or Murad Rapid Relief Acne Sulfur Mask

The Sofie Pavitt Face Reset BP Mask is a newer find for me and I’m genuinely impressed.

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It has 5% benzoyl peroxide, but unlike most BP products, it’s an actual rinse-off mask. You leave it on for 3 to 5 minutes and wash it off.

It’s effective without being drying, which is pretty rare for a benzoyl peroxide formula.

If benzoyl peroxide tends to irritate your skin, the Murad Rapid Relief Acne Sulfur Mask is a solid alternative.

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It uses sulfur, salicylic acid, and Austrian peat to cut down on oil, shrink pimples, and clear out blackheads.

The formula is hydrating and easy to remove, so it doesn’t feel like a punishment to use.

5. Best for Hormonal Acne: Murad Deep Relief Acne Treatment

If you’ve ever dealt with those deep, painful breakouts that seem to live under your skin, this one is for you.

Murad Deep Relief Acne Treatment uses phytosteroids to target stubborn cystic acne without needing steroid shots or prescription pills.

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It forms a thin, invisible layer over the skin that helps the active ingredients penetrate deeper, and the 2% salicylic acid works to break down the bacteria causing the problem at the source.

For extra help with hormonal acne, I also wrote about CurrentBody’s red light mask, which honestly made a noticeable difference for me personally.

6. Best Cleanser: CeraVe Salicylic Acid Cleanser, Kate Somerville EradiKate Daily Foaming Cleanser, or Paula's Choice 2.5% BP Cleanser

The CeraVe Renewing SA Cleanser is one of my favorite drugstore picks, and I’ve gone through multiple bottles of it.

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It has salicylic acid to fight breakouts plus niacinamide to support your skin barrier, which is a nice combo for the price.

It reduces existing blemishes and helps prevent new ones from forming.

Honestly, I think it’s one of the best salicylic acid products you can grab at the drugstore, and it’s especially great for teenagers because it’s simple and straightforward to use every day.

One thing to note, it can feel a little stripping if you have dry skin. This one is better suited for oily skin types.

Kate Somerville EradiKate Daily Foaming Cleanser is a good option if you want something a little more targeted.

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It’s formulated specifically for acne-prone skin and uses 3% sulfur to tackle active breakouts, unclog congested pores, and help prevent new blemishes from forming.

It also draws out impurities, which makes it useful if blackheads or sebaceous filaments are a concern for you.

What keeps it from being too harsh is the botanical side of the formula.

Honey and rice bran extracts help soothe irritation, and oat extract absorbs excess oil without throwing your skin’s balance off.

Paula’s Choice CLEAR 2.5% Benzoyl Peroxide Treatment rounds out this category nicely.

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It’s a lightweight, oil-free lotion that targets existing breakouts and prevents new ones, and the concentration is gentle enough to use twice a day without a ton of dryness or irritation.

Soothing plant extracts help calm redness, and it dries down to a matte finish, so it works well under makeup too.

It’s versatile enough to use on your face or body, and it holds up well for cystic acne prone skin.

A solid addition to any acne routine.

7. Best for Dark Spots: Allies of Skin Mandelic Pigment Corrector

If post-acne marks are your main frustration, this serum is a really strong pick.

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The formula combines mandelic acid, lactic acid, bakuchiol, and other brightening agents to speed up cell turnover and help regulate melanin production, which is what actually fades those stubborn dark spots over time.

If you want something more budget-friendly, Paula’s Choice Discoloration Serum and Topicals Faded Serum (lowkey smells bad but it works) are both worth looking at.

8. Best Sunscreen: Supergoop Glowscreen, Supergoop Mineral Unseen Sunscreen, or Hero Superlight Sunscreen

Sunscreen is non-negotiable when you're treating acne, especially if you're using retinoids or acids that make your skin more sensitive to the sun.

Mineral sunscreens are a great fit for acne-prone skin because they’re zinc-based, and zinc actually has acne-fighting properties on top of sun protection.

The downside is they can feel a little heavy.

My current favorite non-mineral option is Supergoop Glowscreen, which gives a really nice glowy finish and works beautifully as a base under makeup.

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For mineral sunscreen, Supergoop Mineral Unseen Sunscreen is my go-to.

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It has a powdery finish and no white cast, which is hard to find in a mineral formula.

If you want something more budget-friendly, Hero Superlight Sunscreen SPF 30 is a solid pick.

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It’s lightweight and works well for acne-prone skin, just keep in mind it can leave a slight white cast on deeper skin tones.

9. Best Moisturizer: Versed Dew Point or Korres Yogurt Cream

The Versed Dew Point Gel-Cream is probably my favorite thing I’ve tried from Versed.

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It’s super lightweight with a jelly-like texture that absorbs almost instantly, which makes it especially good for oily skin in the warmer months.

The formula has sodium hyaluronate to lock in moisture, aloe leaf juice for hydration, and green tea extract to soothe and protect against environmental damage.

It’s ideal for oily and acne-prone skin since it hydrates without clogging pores, but honestly I have dry skin and I still reach for it regularly.

It keeps skin bouncy and refreshed without any heaviness.

The Korres Greek Yoghurt Gel-Cream is another good one for acne-prone skin.

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It's built around a prebiotic strain called alpha-glucan oligosaccharide, which nourishes your skin's microbiome, reduces dryness, and helps strengthen your barrier over time.

If your skin tends to be reactive or easily irritated, this one is worth looking at.

10. Best Tool: Banisher 3.0

I have the Banish microneedling tool, which is excellent for supporting the healing of textured scars and hyperpigmentation.

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You can’t use it over active acne, but it’s a fantastic tool for improving skin texture and reducing the appearance of old acne scars.

This tool promotes skin rejuvenation by stimulating collagen production, leading to smoother and more even-toned skin over time.

The Bottom Line

That’s my full list. Whether you’re dealing with active breakouts, scarring, or dark spots, there’s something here that can help.

Just remember that none of this works if you’re not consistent. Most of these products need time to do their thing.

One last thing: keep hydrocolloid patches in your routine. They’re cheap, they work, and they save you from picking.

My favorite is Hero Cosmetics, but Cosrx is a solid budget option. It’s a little less sticky but gets the job done.

As always, let me know if you have any questions in the comments.

I hope this helps!

Cheers,

Fawn

What makes it different from other AHAs is how mild it is.

It has a larger molecule size, so it absorbs into the skin more slowly, which means less irritation.

It’s also a good option for acne-prone skin.

Because of how it’s structured, it shares some similarities with salicylic acid and can help keep pores clear.

Compared to stronger acids like glycolic acid or even lactic acid, mandelic acid is much easier on the skin.

That makes it a better choice for people with sensitive skin or those just starting out with exfoliating acids.

In this article, I’ll walk you through the main benefits of mandelic acid and how to use it in your routine.

Benefits of Mandelic Acid

Mandelic acid products and similar chemical peels have unique benefits that you won’t find with every type of chemical exfoliant.

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In fact, mandelic acid peels are particularly great for people with darker skin tones and have great anti-aging benefits.

Safe for Sensitive Skin

Of the three main AHAs, mandelic acid is a larger molecule than either glycolic or lactic acid.

Therefore, it penetrates in your skin more slowly and reduces the risk of irritation often found with other exfoliants.

This unique feature makes mandelic acid ideal for people with sensitive skin as it’s less likely to cause excessive dryness or compromise your skin barrier function.

Suitable for Darker Skin Tones

Because mandelic acid is less likely to irritation, it may be more suitable for people with deeper skin tones.

This is because darker skin tones often respond to irritation with a condition called post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH).

You may recognize PIH better as dark spots.

That being said, people with darker skin tones can still use stronger acids like glycolic acid as long as they don’t cause irritation for you.

Promotes Chemical Exfoliation

Mandelic acid chemically exfoliates the top layer of your skin by breaking down the bonds that hold your dead skin cells together.

This layer of skin is also known as your stratum corneum.

Chemical exfoliation is a beneficial process to help with speeding up cell turnover and fighting unwanted skin texture.

Improves Skin Texture

If you have rough bumps and uneven texture, mandelic acid is your new best friend.

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By gently turning over the top layer of your skin, mandelic reduces fine lines and unnecessary roughness.

Over time, your complex will even out and glow beautifully.

Reduces Uneven Skin Tone

Thanks to its ability to speed up skin cell turnover, mandelic acid fights uneven skin tone and hyperpigmentation.

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Thanks to its acne and scar fighting properties, it’s the perfect exfoliating acid for people with oily skin.

Uses for Mandelic Acid

Thanks to its versatile nature, mandelic acid has tons of applications for use in your skincare routine.

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Reducing Acne

Not only is mandelic acid antibacterial, but it’s also somewhat anti fungal!

This means that it can:

• Unclog pores

• Reduce excess oil production

• Fight mild acne

• Help treat fungal acne

As a bonus, it also has some anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce redness.

Improving Signs of Aging

If there’s one thing AHAs are good at, it’s fighting fine lines and wrinkles.

By promoting skin cell turnover, mandelic acid has promising anti-aging benefits.

That being said, the anti-aging effects won’t be as significant as they would if you were using something stronger like glycolic acid.

Brightening Dull Skin

If you’re dealing with dull skin, you might benefit from adding a mandelic acid product to your routine.

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By getting rid of dead skin cells and evening on your skin tone, it can help you develop a beautiful, healthy glow.

Side Effects of Mandelic Acid

Even though mandelic acid is generally well tolerated, people with sensitivity might experience mild skin irritation.

Signs of irritation include redness and itching and typically subside once you reduce the frequency of your product.

You can also use hydrating serums and moisturizers to reduce your chances of developing irritation.

Summary: Mandelic Acid Benefits for Skin

Mandelic acid is a gentle exfoliating acid that works well for a wide range of skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin.

Because it absorbs more slowly, it offers the benefits of chemical exfoliation with a lower risk of irritation.

With consistent use, it can help improve skin texture, brighten dull skin, and support a more even-looking tone.

It’s also a practical option if you want to target mild breakouts without using harsher actives.

If you’re looking for a simple way to add exfoliation into your routine without overwhelming your skin, mandelic acid is a solid place to start.

Cheers,

Fawn

Generally, you should apply a spot treatment after using your cleanser and toner but before your moisturizer and facial oil.

Depending on the active ingredients in the spot treatment, it can be used as part of your morning skincare routine or evening.

This article will explain everything you need to know about when to apply a spot treatment.

When to Apply Spot Treatment

If your spot treatment includes active ingredients like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, you are safe to use it either morning or night.

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Generally, if your product includes glycolic acid or lactic acid, then you should stick to applying it at night.

Regardless of when to apply them, these are all great ingredients to fight skin texture and acne.

Be sure to look for them in your spot treatment products!

When to Apply Spot Treatment in the Morning

Your morning skincare routine should follow this order:

1. Cleanser

2. Toner (optional)

3. Spot treatment

4. Vitamin C (optional)

5. Moisturizer

6. SPF

When to Apply Spot Treatment in the Evening

Your nighttime routine should follow this order:

1. Cleanser

2. Spot treatment

3. Anti-aging or hydrating serum (optional)

4. Moisturizer

5. Facial oil (optional)

Sticking to this order will help improve your skin’s ability to absorb the acne treatments.

Do you put acne treatment before or after moisturizer?

You should apply your acne treatment before moisturizer.

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Moisturizers are much heavier than acne treatments.

Therefore, if you apply them before your spot treatment, you may reduce the efficacy of the treatment as it can’t absorb as well.

Generally, we structure your regular skincare routine by applying products from “thinnest to thickest” or “wateriest to oiliest”.

Best Acne Spot Treatments

1. CeraVe Acne Control Gel

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2. La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo

   

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3. Murad Rapid Relief Acne Spot Treatment

   

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CeraVe Acne Control Gel is a great treatment formulated with salicylic acid while La Roche Posay Effaclar Duo contains benzoyl peroxide and lipo hydroxy acid.

Alternatively, Murad Rapid Relief Acne Spot Treatment uses salicylic acid to help unclog pores and reduce breakouts.

All of these ingredients can help reduce clogged pores, so the best one for you depends on your skin type.

Generally, salicylic acid is a gentler option for sensitive or dry skin, while benzoyl peroxide can be more effective for inflamed acne but may cause dryness or irritation.

How to Use Acne Spot Treatment

To use acne spot treatment properly, first wash your face so you’re working with clean skin.

If desired, you also apply a toner for further cleansing.

Then, apply a thin layer of your spot treatment to the affected area.

Allow it to absorb for 1-2 minutes.

Finish off by applying any serums or moisturizers to help protect your skin barrier.

Do you put acne treatment before or after serum?

Your acne treatment should come before your serum to maximize its efficacy.

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How long do you leave acne spot treatment on?

You should leave your acne spot treatment on for a few hours.

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Preferably, if you are applying a spot treatment as part of your evening skincare routine, you can just leave it on overnight and wash it off in the morning.

Do you leave acne cream on overnight?

Yes, you can leave acne cream on overnight.

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While some active ingredients like salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide can be worn during the day, others should be best kept for nighttime such as alpha hydroxy acids.

Do you rub in acne spot treatment?

Yes, when using a spot treatment, you can gently rub it in to the affected area.

Just be careful not to be rough.

Summary: Spot treatment or moisturizer first?

Your spot treatment should be applied before your moisturizer.

First, cleanse your face and apply toner if you use one.

Then apply your spot treatment to the affected areas.

After allowing the spot treatment to absorb, you can follow with a hydrating serum, moisturizer, and facial oil if desired.

Cheers,

Fawn

Generally, toners are applied after cleansing. You then follow with a serum and moisturizer suited to your skin type.

Both products have a place in your routine and can help address concerns such as:

Toner and Serum Benefits

• Dryness and dehydration

• Dark spots

• Clogged pores

In this article, I’ll explain everything you need to know about toners, serums, and how to use them correctly in your skincare routine.

What is a toner?

Toners are skincare products you use after cleansing and before moisturizing.

They help remove any leftover dirt, oil, or makeup that your cleanser may have missed.

They can also help your skin absorb the products you apply next.

Toners come in different forms, including:

• Sprays

  

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• Pre-soaked pads

  

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• Liquid formulas

  

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In general, it’s best to choose an alcohol-free toner.

Toners with strong astringents can dry out your skin and cause irritation.

That said, toners with ingredients like witch hazel can help control excess oil and soothe razor burn.

How to Apply Toner

You can apply toner in a few different ways:

• Using a cotton pad

• Spraying it directly onto your face

• Patting it in with your hands

The method you choose depends on the type of toner you’re using.

For example, if you’re using a toner to remove leftover residue, you may want to wipe it across your skin with a cotton pad.

If you’re using a hydrating toner, it’s better to spray it onto your face or gently pat it into your skin.

No matter which type you use, always follow up with a moisturizer to help prevent dryness or irritation.

Face Toner Benefits

Beyond removing leftover dirt and impurities, toners offer several benefits.

They can help:

• Provide hydration

• Balance your skin’s pH

• Soothe irritation

• Remove dead skin cells

You don’t have to use a toner in your skincare routine, but depending on your skin type and concerns, it can be a helpful step.

Providing Skin Hydration

Hydrating toners can help support your skin’s natural moisture barrier.

They’re usually made with ingredients like:

• Hyaluronic acid

• Sodium hyaluronate

• Glycerin

• Panthenol

• Allantoin

These types of toners are especially helpful for dry or sensitive skin.

They can be used in either your morning or nighttime skincare routine.

Balancing Skin pH

Because certain cleansers and active ingredients can throw off your skin’s natural pH, applying a balancing toner can help protect your skin barrier.

Your skin should sit at about pH 5.5 to support a healthy microbiome.

Soothing Irritation

Toners formulated with calming ingredients like aloe vera and green tea can help reduce redness and irritation.

These ingredients can also support hydration and improve dry skin.

Remove Dead Skin Cells

Toners formulated with beta hydroxy acids like salicylic acid, or alpha hydroxy acids like glycolic acid and lactic acid, can help address specific skin concerns, including:

• Textured skin

• Removing acne causing bacteria

• Reducing clogged pores

These types of toners overlap quite a bit with leave-on chemical exfoliants, and the distinction between the two is not always clear.

People with oily skin types or acne prone skin types can benefits from an exfoliating toner.

Toner before or after moisturizer?

You should apply your face toner before your moisturizers and facial oils.

For your general skincare routine order, you always want to apply your products from “thinnest to thickest” and “wateriest to oiliest”.

Toners vs Serums

Unlike serums, toners are far more diluted and do not deliver those higher concentrations of active ingredients that we see in facial serums.

Further, a toner is applied after your cleanser and before your serum.

Your serum is applied after your toner and before your moisturizer in your skincare routine.

Toners are used to further cleanse the skin of impurities and dirt, while serums are used to deliver active ingredients to address specific skin concerns for different skin types.

Depending on your skin type, you may be more suitable for either a toner, a serum, or both.

What is a serum?

Serums are skincare products formulated with concentrated active ingredients used to treat specific skin concerns.

They are commonly formulated with just a few ingredients and are designed to be left on the skin after application.

What does a serum do?

Face serums are used to treat many different skin concerns.

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They all deliver high concentrations of active ingredients, but these actives vary.

For example, a hydrating serum formulated with hyaluronic acid and glycerin would be used to directly target dehydrated skin.

Facial Serum Benefits

Depending on the active ingredients included, facial serums can have a number of different benefits for specific skin concerns, including:

Facial Serum Benefits

• Excess oil control for acne prone skin

• Reducing uneven skin tone and dark spots

• Providing antioxidant protection

• Improving skin hydration

• Fighting sensitive skin concerns

If you have skincare concerns like these, you may benefit from including a serum in your daily skincare routine.

Oil Control

Ingredients like niacinamide and zinc have been proven to help control excess oil production and reduce the appearance of large pores.

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Fighting Uneven Skin Tone and Dark Spots

Vitamin C serums act as tyrosinase inhibitors.

This means that they are effective at treating hyperpigmentation, dark spots, and minor acne scars.

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Providing Antioxidant Protection

Vitamin C also works synergistically with your sunscreen to protect you from:

• Free radical damage

• Harmful UV rays.

• Dull skin

Wearing SPF is one of the most crucial skincare steps for preventing premature aging, and supplementing with vitamin C can help as well.

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Improving Skin Hydration

Layering a hydrating serum with ingredients like hyaluronic acid underneath your night cream can help get rid of dry patches.

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Further, by improving your skin hydration, these serums will help you wake up with a beautiful youthful glow and plump, healthy skin.

Fighting Sensitive Skin Concerns

Certain barrier repair serums can be phenomenal for sensitive skin.

These serums deliver skin loving ingredients like:

• Tamanu oil or rosehip oil

• Niacinamide

• Ceramides

And more.

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Serum or moisturizer first?

Your serum should always go before moisturizer in your skincare routine.

By applying your moisturizer after serum, you will lock in hydration and keep your skin happy.

Serum vs Toner

Unlike toners, serums do not cleanse the skin.

They are not supposed to be washed away after application.

Further, you’ll more commonly find serums in small dropper bottles as opposed to the larger bottles you’ll find toners in.

Finally, you only need a few drops of a serum to cover your entire face.

You apply the liquid to your skin and gently pat it in.

You would not use a cotton pad with a serum like you would a toner.

Difference Between Toner and Serum

The difference between toner vs serum comes comes down to:

• Each product’s place in your skincare routine

• The consistency of the formulas

• Purpose of the product

Deciding how to fit a toner or serum into your routine depends largely on the needs of your skin type.

Skincare Routine Order

Your skincare routine should follow this general order:

Skin Routine Order

• Cleanser

• Toner

• Serum

• Eye cream

• Moisturizer

• Oil

Remember, we apply our products from “wateriest” to “oilest”.

Formula Consistency

Toners are watery and far more runny than serums.

Serums tend to be thicker and are applied with a dropper.

Product Purpose

While toners are used to further cleanse your skin and provide hydration, serums are used to target specific skin concerns like premature aging or dark spots.

Serum or Toner First

Toners should come first before serums in your skincare routine.

Can I use serum and toner together?

Yes, you can use serum and toner together.

Just make sure you’re not using too many harsh active ingredients like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide.

While oily skin types may be able to handle more active ingredients, dry skin and sensitive skin types likely will not.

Summary: Toners vs Serums

Toners are thinner, watery formulas that are used to further cleanse your skin after washing your face.

Generally, a good alcohol free toner is formulated to provide hydration and to balance the pH of your skin.

By preventing your skin from an acidic pH, toners can help with dry skin, acne breakouts, and rough patches.

On the other hand, serums are slightly thicker formulas that include high concentrations of active ingredients that are used to treat a specific skin concern.

Both a serum and facial toner can be included in your routine and can contribute to a youthful glow and radiant complexion.

Cheers,

Fawn

In fact, moisturizer is an important step in a skincare routine for acne prone skin types.

It’s one of the best tools we have in clinical and aesthetic dermatology to replenish moisture and help maintain your protective skin barrier.

That being said, it’s important to use the right moisturizer for your skin type.

Using too much of the wrong moisturizer or a heavy facial oil can clog pores and possibly create more breakouts.

Can a moisturizer cause acne?

On its own, moisturizer doesn’t directly cause acne.

In fact, by moisturizing your skin after using harsh active ingredients like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide that can trigger inflammation. This has other benefits such as protecting your skin barrier and helping to regulate oil production.

However, using the wrong moisturizer or using too much can contribute to breakouts for acne prone skin.

Is my moisturizer causing breakouts?

If you just started using a new moisturizer and are experiencing more acne flare ups than normal, it’s possible that your moisturizer is causing breakouts.

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Can moisturizer cause pimples?

The right moisturizer won’t cause pimples.

However, if you’re using moisturizers that are too heavy for your skin type or you’re over moisturizing, that can lead to clogged pores and more breakouts.

Which moisturizer ingredients contribute the most to acne?

Many moisturizers containing the following ingredients can contribute to acne:

• Vegetable oils

• Mineral oil

• Coconut oil

• Artificial fragrances

Additionally, certain ingredients can trigger allergic reactions in certain people that can lead to breakouts. For example, phenoxyethanol is a paraben alternative that some people may be allergic to.

What’s the right amount of moisturizer to use?

The right amount of moisturizer to use depends on your skin type or needs.

Dry skin and sensitive skin types will require more moisturizer than oily skin or acne prone skin types.

This is because certain people have a genetic predisposition to increased sebum production, also known as natural oil production.

Using too much moisturizer on oily skin can contribute to clogged pores.

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In these instances, you may want to try using a hydrating serum with hyaluronic acid or a water based moisturizer instead.

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Are you using too much moisturizer?

Excessively over moisturizing can definitely: clog up your skin’s surface, lead to breakouts, and potentially make acne worse.

Choosing the right frequency to moisturize is more of an art than a science.

Try moisturizing more if:

• Your skin feels dry

• You feel tight or itchy which are common signs of irritation

• You’re using active ingredients, including gentle exfoliants

• You’re using acne treatments, including Differin

  

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How to Apply Moisturizer for Acne Prone Skin

Make sure to apply gentle moisturizer after cleansing your face thoroughly.

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First, apply a thin layer and wait for it to absorb. If your skin feels tight or dry, then you can consider adding extra moisturizer afterwards.

What’s a good moisturizer for acne prone skin?

Check out non comedogenic moisturizers made with anti-inflammatory ingredients such as aloe vera or green tea.

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Make sure not to over moisturize though!

Final Thoughts

Moisturizer does not cause acne by default.

Using the wrong formula, too much product, or a texture that doesn’t match your skin type can contribute to breakouts.

The goal is to support your barrier, not overwhelm it.

Cheers,

Fawn

It’s not always a fancy facial. Sometimes it’s dermaplaning.

This simple technique removes dead skin and peach fuzz in minutes and can completely change how your skin looks and feels.

It’s quick, affordable, and easy to maintain.

But before you grab a blade, there are a few important things you should know.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through exactly how to dermaplane at home safely.

What is Dermaplaning at Home?

Dermaplaning is an exfoliating treatment involving a scalpel or dedicated tool to remove your facial hair and dead skin cells.

By removing dead skin cells and peach fuzz, you’ll have smoother skin which helps your skincare products absorb more easily and creates a smooth base for makeup.

It’s non-invasive, and while some people caution against dermaplaning yourself, I think it’s one of the best affordable procedures that you can recreate safely in your own home.

For a good visual example of how to dermaplane, check out this video:

Benefits of Dermaplaning at Home

Dermaplaning removes dead skin cells and is one of my favorite skincare practices because it’s quick, affordable, and you don’t have to do it that often.

By dermaplaning, you will:

• Get rid of fine facial hair

• Remove dead skin cells

• Help your skincare products absorb more easily

• Create an even base for your makeup

• Create smooth skin

Plus, if you have a beard, you can also dermaplane for hair removal to line it up between visits to your barber.

Trust me, dermaplaning is the key to the glowing skin you’ve always dreamed of.

What You’ll Need for Dermaplaning at Home

Depending on how quick you are and the area you want to shave, the whole process should take between 5-20 minutes.

Take a few minutes to prep ahead of time and grab the following:

1. Makeup remover or oil-based cleansing balm (if applicable)

   

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2. Gentle cleanser

   

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3. Clean towel

4. Non-comedogenic face oil

   

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5. One scalpel or specific dermaplane tool

   

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6. Soothing serum (optional)

   

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7. Your favorite moisturizer

   

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8. Alcohol pads to clean your blade before, during, and after use.

   

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While I’ve used scalpels in the past, I strongly recommend getting a dedicated dermaplaning tool as the angled blade reduces your chances of cutting yourself by accident.

How to Safely Dermaplane at Home

First, remove any makeup with a cleansing balm (if applicable) and wash your face thoroughly with a gentle cleanser.

We want to be gentle when we dermaplane, so opt for a hydrating cleanser or at least one without harsh ingredients like microbeads, salicylic acid, and ilk.

Then, either gently pat your face dry with a clean towel or let it air dry.

Now, apply a few drops of your face oil to the area you’ll begin your dermaplaning session and gently massage it into your skin.

Fawn’s Note: Some people like to dermaplane on dry skin. I’ve tried both ways, and I prefer to layer some oil to prevent scratching my skin or causing other unwanted damage.

If you’re using a disposable blade, safely remove it from its packaging.

If you’re using a reusable blade, wipe it down with your alcohol pad.

Pull your skin taut between your fingers with one hand, and slowly use your dermaplaning tool to remove the hair with short, precise motions with the other.

Repeat this same process until you’ve finished dermaplaning to your satisfaction, being careful not to nick your:

• eyes

• neck

• mouth

• or ears

Finally, if you have a reusable dermaplaning tool, wipe off your blade with an alcohol pad.

Otherwise, dispose of your tool or blade safely.

How often should you dermaplane face at home?

I don’t dermaplane more than once per week, sometimes only biweekly.

If you have sensitive skin, you might be better off dermaplaning only once or twice per month.

You’ll have to experiment and see what frequency works best for you, but I suggest no more often than once per week.

Tips for Dermaplaning Safely At Home

If you’re nervous, make sure you dermaplane in a room with a well-lit room and plenty of mirror visibility.

If you go slowly and are patient, it’s unlikely you’ll cut yourself by accident – just stay focused.

I’ve nicked myself a few times before (typically in the neck area), and it’s always been an issue of going too fast and not paying attention to the position of the blade.

Dos & Don’ts for Dermaplaning at Home

1. Don’t dermaplane over active acne, you’ll spread bacteria around and risk infection

2. Do stay focused – it’s easy to cut yourself with a scalpel if you get distracted

3. Don’t use any harsh active ingredients when you dermaplane (ex. salicylic acid, retinol)

4. Do use a soothing serum, moisturizer, and your favorite facial oil after dermaplaning as your skin will be more sensitive than usual

5. Don’t shave over your lips; take caution when shaving around your nose and mouth area

6. Do use a sharp blade instead of a more blunt tool. You’re less likely to cut yourself with a sharp tool!

Can I use glycolic acid after dermaplaning at home?

No, you should not use glycolic acid after dermaplaning at home.

Since dermaplaning is already one form of exfoliation, you should not combine other exfoliating treatments with it.

Instead, consider using a soothing serum and nourishing moisturizer after dermaplaning and using glycolic acid on an alternate night.

Can I use retinol after dermaplaning at home?

No, you should not use retinol after dermaplaning at home.

Dermaplaning can irritate your skin, and applying retinol can further exacerbate side effects like dryness, flakiness, and irritation.

Instead, be sure to apply a moisturizer with ceramides and facial oil after dermaplaning and leave your retinol serum for another night.

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How long after dermaplaning can I use retinol?

You should wait at least 8-12 hours after dermaplaning before using any drying ingredients like retinol, salicylic acid, or even mandelic acid.

Can I use niacinamide after dermaplaning at home?

Yes, you can use niacinamide after dermaplaning at home.

In fact, studies show that niacinamide supports your natural skin barrier function and promotes wound healing, so it is an ideal ingredient to use after dermaplaning.

Can you dermaplane before microneedling?

You should keep your dermaplaning and microneedling practices for separate nights.

Both dermaplaning and microneedling can cause irritation and disrupt your skin barrier, so you should conduct these practices on alternate nights.

The Bottom Line: How to Dermaplane at Home

Dermaplaning can be one of the easiest ways to get smoother, brighter skin without spending a fortune.

When it’s done correctly, it removes dead skin and peach fuzz, helps your products absorb better, and gives your makeup a flawless finish.

But technique matters.

Take your time. Use the right tools. Work in good lighting. Go slowly and stay focused.

This is not something you want to rush.

If you respect the process and treat your skin gently, dermaplaning at home can be safe, simple, and seriously worth it.

Cheers,

Fawn

Not tools I try once and move on from, but ones that fit easily into everyday life and make sense long term.

That’s what drew me to ZIIP HALO 2.0.

ZIIP HALO 2.0 is an all-in-one microcurrent skincare device that uses electrical currents to work with the skin’s natural bio-electricity to help transform the look and feel of your skin.

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It’s designed to support lifting, toning, smoothing, and overall skin clarity through guided treatments you can use at home.

ZIIP HALO 2.0 is re-engineered to deliver advanced electrical currents, with a more robust design to give you its most advanced results yet.

I like that it connects to an app and offers different treatments depending on what your skin needs.

Some days your focus might be lifting and toning.

Other days you wake up with breakouts, uneven tone, or skin texture concerns.

Having one device that can adjust to that feels more realistic than sticking to a single setting every time.

This isn’t about quick results or instant changes.

It’s about using the device consistently, following the guided treatments, and giving your skin time to respond.

If you’re curious to try it, you can use my code FAWNSKIN for 10% off the ZIIP HALO device and gels.

First Impressions & Packaging

The ZIIP HALO 2.0 arrives in a clean, minimal box that feels polished without being overdone.

In the box, you’ll find the ZIIP HALO device itself, along with three premium microcurrent conductive gels included so you can try each one and see which works best for your skin.

The gels are clearly labeled and easy to identify, which makes it simple to start using the device right away without needing to buy anything extra.

The device has a smooth, solid feel and sits comfortably in the hand.

It doesn’t feel bulky or fragile, and the curved shape makes sense once you see it in person.

It looks designed to glide easily across the face rather than feeling awkward or overly technical.

The ZIIP HALO includes a pre-programmed four-minute facial built directly into the device, so you can use it without the app.

The app, however, unlocks the full range of guided treatments and customization options.

Setup is straightforward and doesn’t take much time.

Once connected, the app guides you through each step, so you’re not left guessing how to use the device.

Overall, the first impression is that everything feels approachable.

From the packaging to the setup, it’s easy to understand what to do and how to get started, which makes it feel simple to work into your routine from day one.

How ZIIP HALO 2.0 Works

You start by choosing ZIIP HALO in the app, then selecting a treatment based on your skin goal, such as a quick four-minute facial, lymphatic drainage, lifting, or collagen support.

Once you select a treatment, the app syncs it to the device and sends a personalized combination of electrical currents designed for that specific goal.

Instead of relying on one fixed setting, each treatment uses a different waveform depending on what you’re trying to address.

Not all skin concerns are the same, and the treatments reflect that.

A lifting-focused treatment feels different from one designed for tone correction or brightening, which helps the device feel more targeted rather than one-size-fits-all.

You apply the ZIIP Gel and follow along with the guided video, which shows you where to move the device and how long to stay in each area.

The app keeps everything structured and easy to follow, so you’re not guessing as you go.

This flexibility makes it easier to use consistently.

Skin needs can change from day to day, and ZIIP HALO lets you adjust simply by choosing a different treatment in the app.

If you’re short on time, every ZIIP HALO is also pre-programmed with the four-minute facial, so you can still complete a full-face treatment without opening the app.

I’m usually pretty busy, so I need anything in my routine to feel manageable.

I’ve been using ZIIP HALO about 3–4 times a week since mid-January, mostly at night after cleansing.

On busier nights, I’ll just use the preset treatment built into the device to stay on track.

My favorite treatment right now is Sculpt, which runs for about 6 minutes.

It uses microcurrent to contour and define, and I see the most visible change around my jawline and cheeks when I use it regularly.

Especially on weeks when my face feels a little puffy or tired, it helps everything look more lifted and defined.

When I’m more focused on uneven tone or discoloration, I’ll switch to a lower-intensity treatment like Tone Corrector, which is designed to help fade dark spots and support a more even-looking complexion.

I like that I can adjust depending on what my skin actually needs instead of sticking to one setting every time.

Why Microcurrent Treatments Feel Different

• Each treatment on ZIIP HALO 2.0 is programmed with a unique waveform, rather than relying on one fixed electrical setting.

• A waveform refers to how the electrical signal is delivered, including its pattern, timing, and intensity.

• Because these waveforms vary by treatment, sessions are designed to support different skin goals and can feel distinct from one another.

• This allows one device to address multiple concerns without relying on a single setting.

Conductive Gels and Why They Matter

The ZIIP HALO 2.0 comes with three premium microcurrent conductive gels included, so you can try each one and determine which works best for your skin.

All gels share the same core function: helping electrical current move evenly across the skin and maintaining proper contact during treatment.

Each gel layers different skincare ingredients onto the same conductive base:

• Golden Gel – Focuses on firmness and smoothing, with ingredients commonly used in collagen-supporting formulas.

• Silver Gel – Prioritizes hydration and skin comfort, making it a good option for drier or more sensitive-feeling skin.

• Crystal Gel – Designed with brightening and tone support in mind.

Choosing between gels doesn’t change how the ZIIP HALO works, but it allows you to tailor the treatment based on your skin type or concern.

I’ve personally reached for the Silver Gel most often, especially when my skin feels slightly dehydrated or reactive.

It gives enough slip for the treatment while still feeling comfortable, and my skin feels balanced afterward.

When I’m more focused on firmness and smoothing, I’ll use the Golden Gel instead.

After treatment, the conductive gel should always be rinsed off before continuing with the rest of your skincare routine.

Results & What to Expect Over Time

ZIIP HALO 2.0 is designed to support gradual, cumulative changes rather than dramatic overnight results.

Some treatments may create temporary effects, such as a short-term feeling of lift or added glow.

However, unlike some microcurrent devices that focus primarily on delivering an instant lift, ZIIP HALO 2.0 is designed to support longer-lasting improvements with consistent use.

While you may notice a subtle lift immediately after certain treatments, the real difference builds over time.

With regular use, the goal is not just a temporary effect, but sustained improvements in skin tone, texture, and overall firmness.

In independent clinical testing over six weeks, wrinkles and fine lines were reduced by 28%.

For best results, ZIIP recommends using the device 3–5 times per week, increasing up to 6 times per week during short-term treatment plans or when targeting a specific concern.

My Experience

I’ve been using ZIIP HALO 2.0 consistently for just over a month, about 3–4 times per week, mostly in the evenings after cleansing.

What I’ve noticed most is that the results feel cumulative.

After Sculpt treatments, my jawline looks more defined and my cheek area slightly more lifted.

The effect isn’t dramatic overnight, but with regular use, my lower face looks tighter and more sculpted, especially in photos.

What stands out to me is that it doesn’t feel like a one-time quick fix.

While some treatments create a subtle, immediate lift, the bigger change comes from staying consistent.

My skin looks smoother overall, and my face feels less puffy on weeks when I’ve been consistent with it.

Below is an example from ZIIP’s independent six-week clinical testing to show what longer-term consistent use can look like:

The images show smoother texture and more definition along the jawline when used consistently over six weeks.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been curious about adding a microcurrent device to your routine, ZIIP HALO 2.0 is a good option if you want flexibility without overcomplicating your skincare.

The guided treatments make it easy to follow along, and the ability to choose different treatments depending on your skin goal makes it feel more adaptable than a single-setting device.

It’s best suited for someone who is willing to use it consistently and is looking for gradual improvements rather than dramatic overnight change.

If that approach aligns with how you prefer to treat your skin, ZIIP HALO 2.0 is one that’s easy to maintain long term.

If you want to try it for yourself, you can use my code FAWNSKIN for 10% off the ZIIP HALO device and gels.

Cheers,

Fawn

On one hand, tretinoin cream is a skincare superstar with proven abilities to fight fine lines and wrinkles and treat acne.

On the other, niacinamide is a powerful ingredient that can help even out your skin tone and fade acne scars.

Both ingredients are safe for oily skin but can sometimes cause skin irritation, particularly for those with sensitive skin.

So, is it safe and effective to use these two ingredients together?

In this article, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about using tretinoin and niacinamide together.

What is Tretinoin?

Also known as retinoic acid or retin-A, tretinoin is a vitamin A derivative that works by speeding up the turnover of dead skin cells and stimulating collagen production.

In fact, many studies have confirmed tretinoin’s abilities to:

• Speed up skin cell turnover

• Reduce fine lines and wrinkles

• Improve your skin texture

• Minimize the appearance of enlarged pores

• Reduce pigmentation abnormalities

• Build collagen

• Help with unclogging pores

• Regulate sebum production

Additionally, tretinoin is often prescribed by dermatologists are a treatment for acne.

However, there are some downsides as well.

Fawn’s Notes: Unlike retinol, tretinoin is a prescription medication.

If you don’t have insurance or simply don’t want to deal with going in to see a dermatologist, I suggest checking out a reputable online pharmacy like UluRX.

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They also do cool things a traditional derm can’t, like creating custom formulas for your specific needs.

Potential Side Effects of Tretinoin

Many people experience side effects when starting tretinoin, such as:

• Skin irritation

• Flakiness and peeling

• Redness

• Itchiness

• Dry skin

Studies show that these side effects improve over time as your skin adjusts to retinoic acid.

However, some individuals may still experience lasting sensitivity.

Therefore, it’s important to either “buffer” tretinoin or layer it with hydrating and soothing ingredients.

Enter niacinamide!

What is Niacinamide?

A derivative of vitamin B3, niacinamide is a popular skincare ingredient.

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Studies show that niacinamide has benefits like:

• Minimizing the appearance of large pores

• Improving uneven skin texture

• Fighting fine lines and wrinkles

• Evening out skin tone

• Increasing ceramide production

• Supporting your skin barrier

Niacinamide is generally well-tolerated and is unlikely to cause sensitivity or irritation.

It is safe to use tretinoin and niacinamide together?

Yes, it is safe to use tretinoin and niacinamide together.

In fact, research shows that the combination of niacinamide and tretinoin is:

• Well-tolerated

• Stable

• Synergistic

“Synergistic” means that combining niacinamide and tretinoin together may enhance their efficacy and improve your results!

One study found that using niacinamide and tretinoin together led to improvements in skin tone and fine lines compared to just using tretinoin by itself.

Another study suggested that people with acne-prone skin benefitted from niacinamide which reduced the skin irritation typically associated with tretinoin!

All of this evidence supports the use of niacinamide and tretinoin together.

How to Use Tretinoin and Niacinamide Together

When you first introduce tretinoin, be sure to start slowly by applying it just 2-3 nights per week.

As your skin adjusts, you can slowly increase the frequency to about 5-6 nights per week.

You will want to avoid combining tretinoin with other potentially irritating ingredients, including:

• Retinol

• Salicylic acid

• Benzoyl peroxide

• Glycolic acid

Be sure to monitor your skin for signs of irritation like dryness or peeling.

As your skin adjusts, you can start adding in a niacinamide serum after applying tretinoin a few nights per week.

Slowly increase the frequency until you’re able to use them together 5-6 nights per week.

In general, you should apply moisturizer after niacinamide and tretinoin to reduce any side effects.

Should you apply niacinamide before or after tretinoin?

To maximize anti-aging benefits, I suggest you apply your niacinamide serum after tretinoin.

Research suggests that this order allows tretinoin to penetrate your skin most effectively and therefore produces the best anti-aging results.

However, if you have particularly sensitive skin, applying your niacinamide serum first may provide a “buffering” effect and reduce skin redness caused by tretinoin.

You can try both methods to determine which one works best for you. Then, stick to it and be consistent.

Skincare Routines with Tretinoin and Niacinamide

To get the most out of your skincare routine with tretinoin, follow this order:

Morning:

1. Wash your face with a gentle cleanser

   

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2. Apply 3-5 drops of a vitamin C serum

   

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3. Apply a lightweight moisturizer

   

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4. Finish off with SPF

   

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Evening:

1. Wash your face with a gentle cleanser

   

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2. Apply a pea-sized amount of tretinoin

   

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3. Wait 2 minutes for your tretinoin to absorb fully

4. Apply 3-5 drops of your niacinamide serum

   

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5. Finish off with a moisturizer and facial oil as necessary

   

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That’s it!

Summary: Niacinamide with Retin-A

Both niacinamide and tretinoin are powerful skincare ingredients that can help fight signs of aging and improve your skin tone.

At the same time, they can cause side effects like skin irritation or dryness. To avoid these side effects, first apply your tretinoin, then follow up with your niacinamide serum and a good moisturizer.

Of course, you must be consistent (yet gentle!) as you introduce these two powerful ingredients into your routine.

Be sure to keep reasonable expectations as both tretinoin and niacinamide can take weeks or months to showcase great results.

With careful and patient use, niacinamide and tretinoin can truly be a winning combination for beautiful, glowing skin.

Cheers,

Fawn

Topical tretinoin, also known as retinoic acid, is a popular prescription acne and anti-aging treatment.

However, using tretinoin can also cause side effects like skin irritation and dryness.

By using a good moisturizer along with tretinoin, you can protect your natural moisture barrier and keep your skin healthy.

This article will explain everything you need to know about applying tretinoin with moisturizer.

Benefits of Applying Tretinoin Before Moisturizer

Tretinoin is an effective topical acne treatment.

However, it can also cause irritation, particularly for people with sensitive skin or dry skin.

Fawn’s Notes: Unlike retinol, tretinoin is a prescription medication.

If you don’t have insurance or simply don’t want to deal with going in to see a dermatologist, I suggest checking out a reputable online pharmacy like UluRX.

SHOP HERE

They also do cool things a traditional derm can’t, like creating custom formulas for your specific needs.

Factors to Consider When Applying Tretinoin

There are a number of factors to consider when using tretinoin, such as:

• Your skin type

• Frequency

• Other ingredients in your skincare routine

• How to avoid the side effects of tretinoin

Skin Types

Topical retinoids are the strongest skincare treatment that most people will use in their lifetimes.

Because they are so strong, they can be particularly hard to tolerate for people with dry or sensitive skin.

If this sounds like you, be careful to avoid using too much tretinoin or using it too frequently to start.

Frequency

Depending on your skin type and individual sensitivities, you should start by using tretinoin 2-3 nights per week to give your skin time to adapt.

After a few weeks, you can steadily increase the frequency until you reach about 5-6 nights per week.

Consistent usage of tretinoin is essential for treating acne and aging, so be sure to take your time and do it right.

Other Ingredients in Your Skincare Routine

You should avoid layering certain ingredients with tretinoin such as:

• Salicylic acid

• Benzoyl peroxide

• Alpha hydroxy acids

• Vitamin C

Because these ingredients can cause excessive dryness, it’s best to avoid using tretinoin with them so you don’t develop any negative side effects.

Avoiding the Side Effects

While tretinoin is a popular ingredient used to treat acne and fine wrinkles, it can also cause peeling skin, dryness, and potential irritation.

Therefore, your tretinoin skincare routine should include a hydrating serum and gentle moisturizer.