As we begin to venture out without masks and jump start our social lives, I’ve had no choice but to step up my face care game. Happily, dozens of new skincare launches have been supplying endless opportunities for intrigue and inspiration. Since we’re about to officially kick the summer season off this weekend, I want to share my top five most impressive recent skincare discoveries. Without further ado and in the order of application, let’s get to it.
Circumference Daily Regenerative Gel Cleanser
I have yet to find a Circumference formula I don’t love, but this new gel face wash…seriously transformative. Thanks to upcycling agricultural byproducts from independent growers, the brand utilizes their Waste-Not Sourcing Initiative to slow-extract some of the best botanicals to be used topically. This stunning gel cleanser is packed with Olive and Grape Leaf Extracts as well as antioxidant-rich Moringa and Marula Oils. A single pump creates a most luxurious lather that removes every trace of dirt and pollutants and leaves the skin feeling soft and regenerated. This one elevates daily face washing to a purely decadent experience. The fresh and clean aroma is divine. I prefer this as my morning wash but, for those who double cleanse, it also makes for a great foaming follow up to your favorite oil or balm. $48 (120ml) revolve.com
Herbivore Cloud Jelly Plumping Hydration Serum
Last year, I could not get enough of the Herbivore Pink Jelly face wash so when this new ancillary launched recently, I went to great lengths to get it in my hands. It did not disappoint. A fantastic pairing to the ultra-hydrating cleanser, this refreshing serum is infused with Tremella Mushroom Extract, an alternative to Hyaluronic Acid with even more hydrating power. Other delicious add-ons include Strawberry (brightening), Peach (nourishing), and Hibiscus (mildly resurfacing Alpha Hydroxy) Extracts to complement the instant plumping effect and help guarantee that much appreciated, summer-ready glow. Another ingredient call out goes to Collagen of vegan origin, which has been all the rage the past few years. Ideal for AM or PM use, this serum instantly sinks into the skin and layers great under richer moisturizers or sunscreen. $48 (30ml) sephora.com
Algenist Niacinamide Moisture Veil
There are two reasons I am loving this latest Algenist launch: it is the perfect lotion-like serum that doubles as a moisturizer on my combination skin as the days become more humid, and it highlights Niacinamide, one of my all time favorite ingredients. It’s creamy without feeling heavy, absorbs immediately, and keeps my shine-prone complexion radiant yet glimmer free. The formula includes Algenist’s signature Alguronic Acid, an algae derived compound that promises to firm and refine the skin. The plethora of marine origin extracts is always very impressive in Algenist formulas. If you are constantly searching for a lightweight moisturizer with treatment-like perks that won’t overwhelm congested skin that leans more oily, this is a great everyday serum with benefits. $65 (50ml) sephora.com
Bioeffect Hydrating Creme
This airy moisturizer from Bioeffect has been miraculous on my skin, of late. It’s perfectly creamy, yet lightweight enough to work on my combo skin day or night without ever feeling heavy or turning my face into an oil slick. This one is legit the Goldilocks of moisturizers. Not to mention, the tightly edited INCI list is laser focused on only what the skin needs and caps off at just sixteen ingredients. There is Icelandic Water, Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamin E, and the famous Epidermal Growth Factor sourced from Barley. What to expect? A comfortably hydrated, rejuvenated feeling complexion after a single use. This luxe import from the land of lava fields and volcanos is a splurge but use code BART25 at Skinstore to go lighter on the wallet and to save 25%. $110 (50ml) skinstore.com
Dr. Loretta Tightening Detox Mask
This new mask from Dr. Loretta may top the list of favorite products I packed for my Euro trip earlier in the month. And I don’t pack light! Let’s just say that after two long haul flights and two day-long train rides, my skin stayed looking suspiciously good. I credit that to having slathered this on every other night before crashing. The gel formula works well as an overnight treatment or a quick 20 minute fix. It’s infused with Tetrapeptide-4, mineral-rich Sea Water, Yeast, Moringa and Strawberry Extracts, and tightens and detoxifies fatigued skin while protecting it against free radical damage. If you’re planning any travel this summer, grab a tube immediately. $55 (50ml) skinstore.com
