After rounding up some of the best face cleansers launched over the summer, I realized a handful of other formulas also merit shout outs. Hence, this collective post. Over the past few weeks, some seriously impressive creams and serums have landed in my hands. As I continue to try to experience more newness (the PR mailers aren’t stopping and I am not complaining), I am ecstatic to share some of my favorite August discoveries. Whether you’re looking for a new eye cream, essence, serum or lip treatment, I hope you find what follows below to be helpful. Enjoy!
Peach & Lily Pure Peach Retinoic Eye Cream
My first reaction after sampling the new Peach & Lily Retinoic Eye Cream: this feels expensive. The creamy formula has a gorgeous slip to it (in spite of its being silicone-free), glides on the delicate area around the eyes without migrating past your lash line, and keeps the skin looking plump and fresh. Since my sleep patterns have been questionable this year, it’s also helped me to look more well-rested. The fast absorbing and completely non-sticky formula slots seamlessly into any AM or PM routine. More important is the impressive ingredient deck that includes Niacinamide, Bakuchiol, Bamboo Stem, Ginseng Root, Cucumber, Peach, Aloe, and Green Tea Extracts as well as peptides and ceramides. Since Bakuchiol is the botanical alternative to traditional Retinol, this newness is a much safer option for those of you with skin sensitivities. Seriously thrilled with this one. $42 (15ml) ulta.com
Mario Badescu Dew Drops
Sadly, I didn’t fall in love with the Dew Cream. So, when Mario Badescu sent over a bottle of the new Dew Drops, I was equal parts excited and apprehensive. This one ended up a winner for me. If you’re looking for a fragrance-free hydrating serum, definitely give it a try. The clear liquigel has a juicy Aloe Vera base and is infused with Hyaluronic Acid in various molecular weights (which delivers hydration to multiple layers of the dermis), Niacinamide (firms and refines the appearance of enlarged pores), Green Tea (superb antioxidant protection), Chlorella (healing and firming), and a touch of Lactic Acid (for that subtle glow that is delivered only by Alpha Hydroxy Acid exfoliation). Unlike the Dew Cream (which pilled on my skin), the new Dew Drops layer great under a moisturizer. $30 (30ml) ulta.com
Non Gender Specific Everything Cream
The Everything Cream is the latest addition to the tightly edited Non Gender Specific line up that I have been enjoying lately. When I first dipped into this creamy moisturizer, I feared it might be too rich for my combination skin. Luckily, the texture only appears dense. The cream turns quite airy as it glides over the skin. It also absorbs quickly with a matte finish, which will make it a daytime friendly option for me during chillier months. NGS is known for crafting well-rounded and effective formulas that are great for us and for the environment. The Everything Cream is packed with 23 plant extracts to hydrate, firm, and protect the skin. It also won’t clog your pores — it actually promises to make them appear smaller. Loving the faint citrus aroma, which of course, is all natural. $58 (50ml) credobeauty.com
Fresh Rose Deep Hydration Oil-Infused Serum
If you’ve heard me give skincare advice (which I am completely unqualified to do; my methodology is based only on personal experience, of which I have plenty), you know my favorite and what I think is the most effective way of applying face oils. I either press into cleansed skin which is still damp from a heavy handed face mist or essence application or mix it with a Hyaluronic Acid serum. Using a water-based product as a carrier ensures the oil formula absorbs quickly without leaving a trace of oily residue behind. Now. The new Fresh Deep Hydration Oil-Infused Serum uses water and oil phases to deliver ultra soft and hydrated skin in one step. Simply shake the bottle to mix the Damask Rose flower water and a medley of botanicals (Squalane, Cucumber Extract, Rose, and Camellia Sativa Oils) and press into clean skin as your serum or moisturizer step. It’s excellent during the day under sunscreen. $59 (100m) sephora.com
Elizabeth Arden Ceramide Micro Capsule Skin Replenishing Essence
If you’re a loyalist to the iconic Elizabeth Arden Ceramide Capsules, you’ll be happy to know the ever-popular range has just expanded. You can now boost your regimen with this water-based liquid step, powered by a blend of 73 naturally occurring minerals. That’s what I call replenishing! Super lightweight, this silky infusion combines Sea Salt with Ophiopogon Japonicus Extract (anti-inflammatory), Tsubaki Oil (antioxidant and omega rich oil with the almost identical molecular weight of our skin), and skin softening Meadowfoam Seed Oil. More viscous in texture than most essences in my stash, this new formula feels extremely hydrating upon application. $62 (90ml) elizabetharden.com
Bliss Clear Genius Clarifying Toner + Serum
Can I just tell you how much I’m loving this latest hybrid from Bliss? I’m obsessed. This toner serum hybrid is an excellent solution that aims to clarify congested, breakout-prone skin while keeping the complexion comfortably hydrated. It’s a gel-like serum that dispenses from a toner bottle with a press down lid. The brand recommends you apply it with a cotton round, but I scoop it up with my finger and press it directly to the skin. The formula boasts Salicylic Acid, Niacinamide, Sodium Hyaluronate, Zinc, Tea Tree Leaf Oil, and Tiger Grass Extract. While both Witch Hazel and Willow Bark Extracts are also present, my skin has not had issues with dryness nor tightness. It’s actually looking quite smooth, even, and hydrated. $18 (130ml) ulta.com
Versed Day Maker Microcystal Exfoliator
Physical exfoliation may not be for everyone but don’t pre-judge this step based on your not-so-great past experiences. This month, Versed added Day Maker to the impressive line up and fans of buffing away cell buildup in the name of freshly glowing skin will indeed, have their day made. This newness has a creamy, easily spreadable base which is packed with microcrystalline cellulose, a biodegradable byproduct of wood pulp. Unlike microbeads (remember that plastic nightmare?) or professional grade crystals (leave them to the professionals), this at-home alternative is gentle enough to be used on all skin types up to twice a week. It’s not meant to mimic nor replace an in-office microdermabrasion procedure but it will make your skin feel smooth and help with absorption of your treatment products. The antioxidant-rich formula feels slightly gritty but unlike some scrubs, the Day Maker rinses off easily without clinging to the brows, which can be extremely annoying. $17 (3 oz) versedskin.com
Harry’s (Sharper Than Ever Before) Razor
For years, Harry’s has stood out in the men’s grooming space with affordable and effective shaving products that come in stylish, aesthetically pleasing packaging. What started as a razor subscription box expanded into an in-store retail experience and a complete range of solution-driven formulas. This summer, the uber popular razor underwent a subtle yet much appreciated upgrade. The classic design remains the same with the swivel head and lubricating strip, but the 5 Swedish steel blades are now even sharper than before. This tiny tweak delivers an even smoother, closer shave and the same very approachable price point. $16 (8 ct) harrys.com
Ghost Democracy Invisible Lightweight Daily Sunscreen SPF 33
The summer may be ending but that doesn’t mean you can ease up on your daily sunscreen application. Quite recently, Ghost Democracy made my list of favorite Hyaluronic Acid serums (Floodgate is fantastic) and now, I’m back with a quick rave about their latest launch. Invisible is a 100% mineral filter that uses 22% Zinc Oxide (which is thankfully clear), 4% Niacinamide, 1.5% Artichoke Leaf Extract, and 1.3% Turmeric Extract to not only protect the skin from UV damage but also brightens the complexion and helps to refine the appearance of enlarged pores. At first, this broad spectrum SPF leaves a faint sheen on the skin but it ‘sets’ in minutes to live up to its name — invisible. $33 (1.7 oz) ghostdemocracy.com
Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask [Gummy Bear]
The lip mask of all lip masks expanded its menu of flavors adding Gummy Bear to both the sleeping mask and glowy balm formulas this summer. Personally, I love everything about the Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask and after getting a multi-flavor TSA kit in duty-free a while back, I came to the conclusion, there isn’t a scent I wouldn’t use. Partial to the juicy, mouth-watering candy goodness, Gummy Bear has all the succulent notes of Skittles, Starburst or—for those who live abroad, —Mamba, which evokes my sweetest childhood memory of growing up in Poland. Since this one is a Limited Edition, you may want to grab a couple to stock up. It’s delicious. $22 (.7 oz) sephora.com
