Marketplace

Provenance

Volume (mL)

Native Mineral Sunscreen Spritz Unscented

Procter & Gamble

Water, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Coconut Alkanes, Glycerin, Cetearyl Alcohol, Coco-caprylate/Caprate, Tocopherol, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Xanthan Gum, Coco-glucoside, Benzyl Alcohol, Polyhydroxystearic ACID

Amore Pacific

Water / Aqua / Eau, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Dipropylene Glycol, Betaine, Niacinamide, Gluconolactone, 1,2-Hexanediol, Diethoxyethyl Succinate, Tromethamine, Sucrose Stearate, Squalane, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Polyglyceryl-10 Stearate, Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate, Carbomer, Caprylyl Methicone, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Ethylhexylglycerin, Cholesterol, Xanthan Gum, Asiaticoside, Madecassic Acid, Asiatic Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate, Cellulose Gum, 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid, Zinc Pca, Sodium Gluconate, Glyceryl Caprylate, Madecassoside, Sodium Trimetaphosphate

This translucent serum is similar in texture, formulation, and sterile scent of iUNIK serums. While the trial version I used did not irritate my skin, it did come out as bubbly when I squeezed it out of its plastic container.

Independent

Saponified Oils of Sunflower, Coconut*, and Palm* (Retained Glycerin), Water, Oats*, Shea Butter*, Honey, Rosemary Extract

This fragrance-free bar of soap had actual oats within its rectangular mold. The physical exfoliation still felt courser than preferred but it overall did not negatively impact my skin barrier.

Independent

Aqua (Water), Glycerin, Polyglyceryl-2 Stearate, Glyceryl Stearate, Stearyl Alcohol, Xylitylglucoside, Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Anhydroxylitol, Benzyl Alcohol, Ascorbyl Glucoside, Xylitol, Xanthan Gum, Lavandula Hybrida Oil, Sodium Pca, Linalool, Glucose, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil, Dehydroacetic Acid, Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf Oil, Eugenia Caryophyllus (Clove) Leaf Oil, Cichorium Intybus (Chicory) Root Extract, Trihydroxystearin, Phenoxyethanol, Magnesium Pca, Eugenol, Hydrolyzed Yeast Protein, Caprylyl Glycol, Juniperus Mexicana Oil, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sorbitol, Zinc Pca, Abies Sibirica Oil, Acacia Senegal Gum, Cananga Odorata Flower Oil, Lecithin, Pelargonium Graveolens Oil, Sodium Benzoate, Limonene, Potassium Sorbate, Tocopheryl Acetate, Geraniol, Fragrance* (Parfum), Sodium Hyaluronate, Chitosan, Manganese Pca, Glyceryl Linoleate, Glyceryl Linolenate, Boswellia Carterii Oil, Bulnesia Sarmientoi Wood Oil, Cistus Ladaniferus Oil, Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Retinyl Palmitate, Disodium Edta, Chondrus Crispus (Carrageenan) Extract, Glyceryl Caprylate, Glucomannan, Citric Acid, Sodium Hydroxide

This treatment mask was thick in viscosity and translucent white in color. It smells overly rose-ish and surprisingly did not irritate my skin after application. I received this plastic-packaged product as part of the amenity kit of an Etihad First Class cabin product in the air and would not recommend it to others.

Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil, Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil, Helianthus Annuus Seed Cera (Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Wax), Butyrospermum Parkii Butter (Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter)), Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter, Dicalcium Phosphate, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Parfum (Fragrance), Tocopherol, CI 77947 (Zinc Oxide), Sucralose, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, CI 77492 (Iron Oxides), CI 77499 (Iron Oxides), CI 77491 (Iron Oxides)

My apartment was giving out these lip balms for free so I snagged a couple of flavors. The coconut one had a sugary sweet scent to it and presented as beige. It lingers on my cats’ furs after kissing them with it. The packaging exterior is paper with a plastic internal twist mechanism.

Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil, Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil, Helianthus Annuus Seed Cera (Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Wax), Butyrospermum Parkii Butter (Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter)), Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter, CI 77947 (Zinc Oxide), Parfum (Fragrance), Tocopherol, CI 77492 (Iron Oxides), CI 15850 (Red 7 Lake), Dicalcium Phosphate, Sucralose, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, CI 45410 (Red 28 Lake), Rubus Idaeus (Raspberry) Fruit Extract

This product claimed 8 hour hydration but it felt like I needed to apply it every 30 minutes. It presented as a red balm that smelled of berries and would wipe off of a napkin as such.

Direct-To-Consumer

Independent

Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil, Squalane, Ethylhexyl Olivate, Rosa Canina (Rosehip) Seed Oil, Sclerocarya Birrea (Marula) Seed Oil, Bakuchiol, Vaccinium Macrocarpon (Cranberry) Seed Oil, Ascorbyl Isostearate, Tocopherol, Olive Glycerides, Ceramide NP.

This bakuchiol product absorbed quickly onto my skin and left my face feeling hydrated after showering. It's packaged in an amber glass bottle and was convenient for me to bring during my travels. It has a slight pinesol scent that did not bother me and its dropper mechanism functioned reliably.

Direct-To-Consumer

Independent

Aqua, Glycolic Acid, Dimethyl Isosorbide, Propanediol, Sodium Lactate, Betaine, Glycerin, Panthenol, Salicylic Acid, Lactic Acid, Chamomilla Recutita (Chamomile) Flower Extract, Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf Juice, Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract, Citric Acid, Potassium Sorbate

This light amber presenting toner had the viscosity of water and a slightly sweet scent. It absorbed onto my skin quickly and my face never broke out (despite a chaotic quarter at work) while I was using it.

Blemicalm BHA 2% Clarifying Toner

Direct-To-Consumer

Independent

Aqua, Propanediol, Cocamidopropyl Dimethylamine, Glycerin, Salicylic Acid, Lactic Acid, Sodium Lactate, Centella Asiatica (Gotu Kola) Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract, Polylysine

This fragrance-free toner feels like a gentler chemical exfoliant that can replace the Moon Juice Acid Potion (the latter is stinging to the eyes). The portable version I used was packaged in amber glass and did not leak out of its container during my travels. I applied this during winter months and it absorbed well into my skin without breaking its barrier.

Porebright Niacinamide Refining Toner

Direct-To-Consumer

Independent

Aqua, Propanediol, Niacinamide, Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Betaine, Panthenol, Glycerin, Sodium Anisate, Sodium Levulinate, Lactic Acid, Glycosphingolipids, Glycolipids, Gellan Gum, Calcium Pca, Xanthan Gum

This toner has a slight grainy scent that sweetens over time. It does leave a slight crust residue near the twist off cap area. The color for my product slightly oxidized but otherwise absorbed quickly onto my skin.

Direct-To-Consumer

Independent

Aqua, Propanediol, Niacinamide, Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Lactic Acid, Anethum Graveolens (Dill) Herb Extract, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Liquorice) Root Extract, Sodium Levulinate, Sodium Benzoate, Gellan Gum, Sodium Retinoyl Hyaluronate, Magnesium Carboxymethyl Beta- Glucan, Sodium Carboxymethyl Beta-Glucan, Calcium Pca, Citric Acid, Potassium Sorbate

This serum leaves a slightly sticky feeling after applying it onto skin. I forgot if it started out as clear but toward the end of its use it presented as a light orange liquid (perhaps due to oxidation). It looks like it has been discontinued on the FaceTheory website at the time of writing this review.

Direct-To-Consumer

Independent

Aqua, Propanediol, Betaine, Niacinamide, Glycerin, Sodium Levulinate, Sodium Pca, Sodium Benzoate, Lactic Acid, Sodium Phytate, Pentylene Glycol, Sodium Lactate, Cereus Grandiflorus (Cactus) Flower Extract, Opuntia Ficus-Indica (Prickly Pear) Stem Extract, Pca, Serine, Alanine, Glycine, Glutamic Acid, Lysine Hcl, Threonine, Arginine, Proline, Potassium Sorbate

This fragrance-free toner was packaged in an amber glass bottle and had a reliable spray mechanism. It absorbed onto my skin quickly and it worked well with other products I was using around the same time during the dry winter months.

Direct-To-Consumer

Independent

Aqua (Water), Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Potassium Cetyl Phosphate, Glycerin, Limnanthes Alba (Meadowfoam) Seed Oil, Polyglyceryl-3 Polyricinoleate, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter, Ectoin, Maltodextrin, Sodium Levulinate, Glyceryl Caprylate, Tocopherol, Propanediol, Sodium Benzoate, Xanthan Gum, Citrus Limon (Lemon) Peel Powder, Lactobacillus Ferment, Sodium Phytate, Sodium Stearoyl Lactylate, Citrus Aurantifolia (Lime) Peel Powder, Sclerotium Gum, Tremella Fuciformis (Mushroom) Extract, Avena Sativa (Oat) Meal Extract, Tapioca Starch, Algin, Glyceryl Oleate Citrate, Potassium Sorbate

This serum presents with a milky feel, scent, and color. As such, I can see it getting rancid over time. It's packed in a study glass composite container. The product itself did feel like it contributed as a net positive to my skin barrier.

Porebright Niacinamide 10% Refining Serum

Direct-To-Consumer

Independent

Aqua, Propanediol, Niacinamide, Sodium Lactate, Salicylic Acid, Glycerin, Sodium Anisate, Sodium Levulinate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Azelaic Acid, Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf Juice

This fragrance-free serum absorbed quickly onto my skin and left no noticeable sticky finish. It quenched my skin both during dry winters in NYC and during a blisteringly hot bachelor party in the dry heat of Arizona. It’s packaged in a reliable amber glass bottle with a dropper, and it did not leak during my travels.

Hyaluronic Acid 2% Plumping Serum

Direct-To-Consumer

Independent

Aqua, Pentylene Glycol, Hyaluronic Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Levulinate, Cistus Incanus Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract, Sodium Benzoate, Glycerin, Sodium Phytate, Phenylpropanol, 1,2 - Hexanediol, Lactic Acid

This clear serum left crusty residue around the rim of its amber glass packaging. It left a dewy, but unmemorable finish.

Direct-To-Consumer

Independent

Propanediol, 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid, Olive Oil Polyglyceryl-4 Esters, Dibutyl Lauroyl Glutamide, Dibutyl Ethylhexanoyl Glutamide, Ferulic Acid

The ferulic acid of this product gives it a slight hotdog water smell (which is to be expected). The product did not visibly oxidize into a different color for me as it remained clear from start to finish. It did leave any oily shine after application without breaking out my skin.

Direct-To-Consumer

Independent

Aqua, Niacinamide, C15-19 Alkane, Cetyl Alcohol, Glyceryl Stearate, Polyglyceryl-6 Stearate, Hydroxystearic Acid, Rosa Canina (Rosehip) Seed Oil, Curcurbita Pepo (Pumpkin) Seed Oil, Tocopherol, Glycerin, Sodium Anisate, Sodium Levulinate, Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Lactic Acid, Glyceryl Caprylate, 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid, Citrus Bergamia (Bergamot) Peel Oil, Gellan Gum, Polyglyceryl-6 Behenate, Sodium Phytate, Xanthan Gum, Limonene, Linalool

Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Seed Oil, Euphorbia Cerifera (Candelilla) Cera, Limnanthes Alba (Meadowfoam) Seed Oil, Mangifera Indica (Mango) Seed Butter, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil, Di-PPG-2 Myreth-10 Adipate, Citrus Nobilis (Mandarin Orange) Peel Oil, Limonene, Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Cetearyl Alcohol, Potassium Cetyl Phosphate, Hydrogenated Palm Glycerides, Prunus Armeniaca (Apricot) Kernel Oil, Sclerocarya Birrea Seed Oil, Silica, Cetearyl Glucoside, Glyceryl Heptanoate, Propanediol, Pinene, Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate, Caprylhydroxamic Acid, Rosa Canina Fruit Oil, Ubiquinone, Triticum Vulgare (Wheat) Germ Oil, Tocopherol

Direct-To-Consumer

Independent

Aqua, Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine, Niacinamide, Coco-Caprylate, Butyloctyl Salicylate, Glyceryl Stearate, Polyglyceryl-6 Stearate, Microcrystalline Cellulose, Cetyl Alcohol, Tocopherol, Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Glycerin, Sodium Anisate, Sodium Levulinate, Citrus Paradisi (Pink Grapefruit) Peel Oil, Lactic Acid, Cetyl Hydroxyethylcellulose, Glyceryl Caprylate, 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid, Polyglyceryl-6 Behenate, Sodium Phytate, Xanthan Gum, Rosa Canina (Rosehip) Seed Oil, Citral, Limonene, Linalool

My wife loves this SPF product! It contains advanced filters that are not yet approved in the US, so the only way I was actually able to order and have this shipped to me was through a bundle with a moisturizer on the Facetheory website. It presents as a light green cream that does not pill and has no fragrance. I love that it's packaged in a squeezable metal tube and it pairs well with other products in my current regimen.

Direct-To-Consumer

Independent

Aqua, Glycerin, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Cetyl Alcohol, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil, Glyceryl Stearate, Stearic Acid, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, Prunus Armeniaca (Apricot) Kernel Oil, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran Oil, Sodium Anisate, Sodium Levulinate, Glyceryl Caprylate, Cetyl Hydroxyethylcellulose, Sodium Hyaluronate, Argania Spinosa (Argan) Kernel Oil, Tocopherol, Lavandula Agustifolia (Lavender) Herb Oil, Xanthan Gum, Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Ferulic Acid, Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf Juice, Limonene, Linalool

This product comes in two variants: an unscented version and a lavender-scented version. I tried the former, and it does have a slight hotdog water scent is attributed to Ferulic Acid—one of its hero ingredients. This product is packaged in a metal squeezable tube, which I appreciate over the plastic ones. As a moisturizer not as occlusive as other products in the market, but it did keep my skin hydrated for a couple of hours with each application.

iNN Beauty Project

Independent

Water/Aqua/Eau, Panax Ginseng Root Water, Propanediol, Glycerin, Dimethicone, Coco-Caprylate/Caprate, Sodium Chloride, Butylene Glycol, Undecane, 1,2-Hexanediol, C13-15 Alkane, Squalane, Calanthe Discolor (Orchid) Extract, Nicotiana Benthamiana Hexapeptide-40 Sh-Polypeptide-76, Acetyl Hexapeptide-8, Hexapeptide-9, Sea Water Extract, Ceramide AP, Ceramide EOP, Ceramide NP, Allantoin, Centella Asiatica Extract, Glyceryl Glucoside, Tremella Fuciformis (Mushroom) Extract, Pistacia Lentiscus (Mastic) Gum, Arginine, Panthenol, Gluconolactone, Phytosphingosine, Glycosphingolipids, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Pentylene Glycol, Cholesterol, Tetraacetylphytosphingosine, Caprylyl Glycol, Cetearyl Alcohol, Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Cetyl Diglyceryl Tris(Trimethylsiloxy)Silylethyl Dimethicone, Phenethyl Alcohol, Hydrogenated Polydecene, Glyceryl Stearate, Sorbitol, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Sodium Benzoate, Stearic Acid, Tridecane, Xanthan Gum, Ethylhexylglycerin, Calcium Gluconate, Hydroxyacetophenone, Tocopherol, Zinc Stearate, Mica, Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891)

This moisturizer is dispursed in what looks like thin vermicelli noodles with each squeeze. I applied it on my body during a tropical visit to Southeast Asia and it seems like a product that is easily sweated off the body. I received a trial size of this product as a freebie from a Sephora holiday haul. Its ingredient list is too riddled with plastic for my own liking but I did notice that it had the National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance.

Honey Cloud Lightweight Barrier Repair Moisturizer

Procter & Gamble

Water, Glycerin, Squalane, Ethylhexyl Palmitate, C15-19 Alkane, Glyceryl Stearate, Caprylic/capric Triglyceride, Cetyl Alcohol, Honey Extract/mel Extract/extrait De Miel, Ectoin, Sodium Polyglutamate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Calendula Officinalis Extract, Anthemis Nobilis Flower Extract, Panthenol, Allantoin, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Tocopherol, Glycosphingolipids, Leuconostoc/radish Root Ferment Filtrate, Ceramide Np, Hydroxyacetophenone, Propanediol, Hydrogenated Palm Glycerides, Hydrogenated Rapeseed Oil, Palmitic Acid, Triolein, 1,2-hexanediol, Caprylyl Glycol, Glyceryl Dioleate, Polyglyceryl-3 Methylglucose Distearate, Potassium Cetyl Phosphate, Acrylates/c10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Stearic Acid, Sodium Phytate, Potassium Hydroxide, Sodium Benzoate

I was only able to sample this product through a couple of uses since it was a trial freebie I received from a Sephora holiday haul. It was packaged in a petit glass container and the product had no ostensible fragrance. It left a layer of moisture on my skin that lasted for a couple of hours.

Egyptian Magic All Purpose Skin Cream

Egyptian Magic

Whole Foods

Independent

Olive Oil, Beeswax, Honey (Mel), Bee Pollen, Royal Jelly, Propolis Cera

This product presents as a thick, yellow ointment with a sweet scent. It has decent occlusive properties that kept my skin moisturized, but it does leave a greasy finish.

Somebody Natural Lip Balm Unscented

Whole Foods

Independent

Cocos-Nucifera (Coconut) Oil*, Candelilla Wax*, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter)*, Tocopherol (Vitamin E)

This lip balm product takes some time to warm up in order for it to be spread across the lips. It's packaged in a cardboard cylinder with a floral pattern and has a slightly sweet scent to it. It does have occlusive properties that keeps the lips moisturized with each application.

Whole Foods

Independent

*Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, *Cera Flava (Beeswax), †Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter, *Schinziophyton Rautanenii (Mongongo) Kernel Oil, Mixed Tocopherols (Vitamin E) , *Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, *Calendula Officinalis (Calendula) Extract

I accidentally left this lip balm in a pocket of a pair of pants I ran through the washing and drying machine and it miraculously still stayed composed within its translucent plastic container. I would have expected any lip balm product to disintegrate under high heat but this one stood its ground.

Whole Foods

Independent

*Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, *Cera Flava (Beeswax), *†Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter, *Yumberry Flavor, *Schinziophyton Rautanenii (Mongongo) Kernel Oil, Mixed Tocopherols (Vitamin E) , *Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, *Calendula Officinalis (Calendula) Extract. *Eupatorium Rebaudianum Bertoni (Stevia) Leaf Extract

This lip balm has a synthetic bubble gum scent and is packaged within a translucent container. I wish it had more occlusive properties; I feel like I need to apply it every 30 minutes for my lips to retain the appropriate levels of moisture I desire.

Mongo Kiss Blood Orange Lip Balm

Whole Foods

Independent

*Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, *Cera Flava (Beeswax), *†Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter, *Citrus Sinensis (Blood Orange) Peel Oil, *Schinziophyton Rautanenii (Mongongo) Seed Oil, Mixed Tocopherols (Vitamin E), *Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, *Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract, *Eupatorium Rebaudianum Bertoni (Stevia) Leaf Extract

I ended up losing this chapstick somewhere in my corporate office so I've only been able to use it for less than a month. In that time, I've observed that the product smells closely to orange sherbert and that it had a slightly rough texture when applying it onto my lips.

Mongo Kiss Vanilla Honey Lip Balm

Whole Foods

Independent

*Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, *Cera Flava (Beeswax), *†Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter, *Flavor, *Schinziophyton Rautanenii (Mongongo) Kernel Oil, Mixed Tocopherols (Vitamin E), *Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, *Calendula Officinalis (Calendula) Flower Extract

This vanilla-scented lip balm was packaged in a clear plastic tube. It did not leave a memorable first impression and only did an adequate (not groundbreaking) job with keeping my lips moisturized for half an hour.

No.5+ Glutathione Vitamin Concentrated Serum

Independent

Water, Butylene Glycol, Niacinamide, Panthenol, Tranexamic Acid, 1,2-Hexanediol, Neopentyl Glycol Dicaprate, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Sorbitol, Vaccinium Vitis-Idaea Fruit Extract, Behenyl Alcohol, Pentylene Glycol, Glycerin, Chondrus Crispus Extract, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid, Saccharum Officinarum (Sugarcane) Extract, Carbomer, Alpha-Arbutin, Bisabolol, Tromethamine, Ethylhexylglycerin, Bifida Ferment Lysate, Adenosine, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Allantoin, Sodium Hyaluronate, Xanthan Gum, Glutathione, Disodium EDTA, Melia Azadirachta Flower Extract, Ocimum Sanctum Leaf Extract, Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract, Ceramide NP, Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root Extract, Corallina Officinalis Extract, Beta-Glucan, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Tocopherol, Ascorbic Acid, Ascorbyl Glucoside, Tocopheryl Acetate, Hydroxypropyl Cyclodextrin, Ubiquinone, Thioctic Acid, Tremella Fuciformis (Mushroom) Extract, Potassium Hydroxide

This serum has fine-grained sand-like particles suspended in its product. It's packaged in tearable plastic ampoules with ends that snap off when bending. It does not carry a fragrance. It did not cause any added irritation when I applied it after a shower, and I did not notice any subtle changes during its use.

Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Silky-Fit Sun Stick

Methyl Methacrylate Crosspolymer, Synthetic Wax, Coco-Caprylate/​Caprate, Cetyl Ethylhexanoate, Butylene Glycol Dicaprylate/​Dicaprate, Dibutyl Adipate, Butyloctyl Salicylate, Vinyl Dimethicone/​Methicone Silsesquioxane Crosspolymer, Silica, Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate, Dicaprylyl Carbonate, Isopropyl Palmitate, Ethylhexyl Triazone, Tocopheryl Acetate, Diethylhexyl 2,6-Naphthalate, Vinyl Dimethicone, Polysilicone-15, Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine, Ozokerite, Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract, Melia Azadirachta Flower Extract, Coccinia Indica Fruit Extract, Solanum Melongena (Eggplant) Fruit Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Flower Extract, Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root Extract, Corallina Officinalis Extract, Ocimum Sanctum Leaf Extract, Centella Asiatica Extract(0.98Ppm), Agave Tequilana Leaf Extract, Diospyros Kaki Leaf Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Castanea Crenata (Chestnut) Shell Extract, Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Flower Extract, Zanthoxylum Piperitum Fruit Extract, Coffea Arabica (Coffee) Seed Extract, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Fruit Extract, Polygonum Cuspidatum Root Extract, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Sodium Hyaluronate(1Ppm), Bisabolol, Glyceryl Caprylate, Caprylyl Glycol, Polyglyceryl-4 Diisostearate/​Polyhydroxystearate/​Sebacate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Water, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid (1 Ppm), Butylene Glycol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Glycerin, Hyaluronic Acid (0.01 Ppm)

I received this SPF stick from Victor as a gift from one of his recent travels to South Korea. I've heard great things about the broader product line and wanted to see how its sun stick would fare. It does not leave behind a white cast and it applies so nicely onto the face without a fragrance. Even Val loves the texture it leaves behind on applied areas. Since I have drier and darker skin than her, I did notice that there were some instances where the product dried up and left behind flaky residue on days where I did not use a moisturizer buffer prior to applying this sunscreen on my face. The product itself is colored a light azure blue and is packaged within what appears to be a mini-deodorant plastic container with a translucent take off cover. This has been the best sun stick I've yet to try, and of course, there is still room for improvement.

Cicalfate+ Restorative Protective Cream

Avene Thermal Spring Water, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Mineral Oil / Huile Minerale, Glycerin, Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil, Zinc Oxide, Propylene Glycol, Polyclugeryl-2-sesquiisosterate, Peg-22/dodecyl Glycol Copolymer, Aluminum Stearate, Aquaphilus Dolomiae Ferment Filtrate, Arginine, Beeswax / Cire D'abeille, Copper Sulfate, Magnesium Stearate, Microcrystalline Wax / Xire Microcristalline, Tromethamine, Zinc Sulfate

The moisturizer is fragrance-free and packaged in a wrinkle-prone plastic tube container. It absorbs quickly onto my skin and leaves a matted finish.

Xeracalm Eczema Calming Relief Balm

Colloidal Oatmeal 1%, Water (Aqua), Propanediol, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Glyceryl Stearate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Cetyl Alcohol, Glycerin, 1,2 Hexanediol, Arginine, Caprylyl Glycol, Ceramide Np, Citric Acid, Maltodextrin, Oenothera Biennis (Evening Primrose) Oil, Ophiopogon Japonicus Root Extract, Polyacrylate-13, Polyisobutene, Polysorbate 20, Sodium Benzoate, Sodium Hydroxide, Sorbitan Isostearate, Tocopherol

I've had a number of flares this past summer and I've always looked forward to applying this moisturizer on the inside of my elbows because it would provide instant moisturization. This is one of my favorite lotions that bears the NEA Seal of Acceptance and I wish I grabbed another container at the Eczema Expo. When compared to La Roche-Posay's Cicaplast Balm, I'd choose this Avene moisturizer every single time. I'm not a huge fan of Acrylates, so if they come out with an updated ingredient without it, Avene would have a buyer for life in me!

Cicaplast Balm B5 for Dry Skin Irritations

La Roche-Posay

Water, Hydrogenated Polyisobutene, Dimethicone, Glycerin, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Panthenol, Aluminum Starch Octenylsuccinate, Butylene Glycol, Propanediol, Cetyl Peg/ppg-10/1 Dimethicone, Trihydroxystearin, Zinc Gluconate, Madecassoside, Manganese Gluconate, Silica, Aluminum Hydroxide, Magnesium Sulfate, Disodium Edta, Copper Gluconate, Citric Acid, Acetylated Glycol Stearate, Polyglyceryl-4 Isostearate, Tocopherol, Pentaerythrityl Tetra-di-t-butyl Hydroxyhydrocinnamate, Sodium Benzoate, Phenoxyethanol, Chlorhexidine Digluconate Titanium Dioxide

This white moisturizer has a light/fresh synthetic scent. When it dries on my skin, there tends to be flaky residue.

Anthelios UV Pro-Sport Sunscreen SPF 50

La Roche-Posay

Water, Dimethicone, Glycerin, Styrene/Acrylates Copolymer, Poly C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate, Polymethylsilsesquioxane, Acrylates/Dimethicone Copolymer, Niacinamide, Silica, Caprylyl Methicone, Diethylhexyl Syringylidenemalonate, P-Anisic Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate, Triethanolamine, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Panthenol, Tocopherol, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Caprylyl Glycol, Glyceryl Stearate, Inulin Lauryl Carbamate, Peg-100 Stearate, Peg-8 Laurate, Potassium Cetyl Phosphate, Sodium Dodecylbenzenesulfonate, Xanthan Gum, Chlorphenesin, Phenoxyethanol

The vendors at the US Open were giving away this mini product for free in droves. The chemical SPF does not leave behind a white cast, but it does smell like burnt rubber.

Anthelios Kids Gentle Lotion Sunscreen

La Roche-Posay

Avobenzone (3%), Homosalate (13%), Octisalate (5%), Octocrylene (10%), Water, Dimethicone, Glycerin, Styrene/​Acrylates Copolymer, Poly C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate, Polymethylsilsesquioxane, Acrylates/​Dimethicone Copolymer, Niacinamide, Silica, Caprylyl Methicone, Acrylates/​C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Caprylic/​Capric Triglyceride, Caprylyl Glycol, Chlorphenesin, Diethylhexyl Syringylidenemalonate, Glyceryl Stearate, Inulin Lauryl Carbamate, P-Anisic Acid, Panthenol, PEG-100 Stearate, PEG-8 Laurate, Phenoxyethanol, Potassium Cetyl Phosphate, Sodium Dodecylbenzenesulfonate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Tocopherol, Triethanolamine, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Xanthan Gum

I received this SPF product for free at the NEA Expo. It doesn't leave a white cast—granted, it's a chemical sunscreen. It has that slightly burned rubber smell to it.

Sodium Lauroyl Isethionate, Stearic Acid, Lauric Acid, Sodium Tallowate or Sodium Palmitate, Water (Aqua), Sodium Isethionate, Sodium Stearate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sodium Cocoate or Sodium Palm Kernelate, Glycerin, Sodium Chloride, Tetrasodium Etidronate, Tetrasodium EDTA, Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891)

This classic bar reminds me of what I grew up using in middle/high school. It gently removed SPF and grime from my body and does not feel like it strips moisture away from my skin during my shower.

Independent

Aqua (Water), Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Propanediol, Glyceryl Stearate, Glycerin,Lactobacillus Ferment, C13-15 Alkane, Cetyl Alcohol, Lactobacillus, Calendula Officinalis Meristem Cell Extract, Haberlea Rhodopensis Leaf Extract, Padina Pavonica Thallus Extract, Symphytum Officinale (Comfrey) Leaf Extract, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Fruit Extract, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Moringa Oleifera (Moringa) Seed Oil, Limnanthes Alba (Meadowfoam) Seed Oil, Macadamia Integrifolia Seed Oil, Cedrus Deodara (Cedarwood) Wood Oil, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Phytosphingosine, Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate, Ceramide NP, Sodium Phytate, Sclerotium Gum, Xanthan Gum, Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Sorbate, Citric Acid

This runny moisturizer presents with a slightly rancid scent. It's packaged in a plastic green container that is easy to cut open. It did not leave as lasting of a moisturizing effect on my skin as I would hope.

Independent

Sodium Olivate, Sodium Cocoate, Sodium Shea Butterate, Aqua (Water), Daucus Carota Sativa (Carrot) Root Extract, Sodium Castorate, Sodium Sunflowerate, Sodium Cocoa Butterate, Calendula Officinalis (Pot Marigold)

This product was part of a NEA Expo 2025 attendee gift bag. It does not product a noticable lather but its composition does provide slight physical exfoliation properties. I do value that it comes in a non-fragranced version and is portable.

Blemicalm TT1 with a Blend of Succinic Acid (2%), Salicylic Acid (2%), Sulphur (2%), Chamomile and Mild Kaolin Clay

Direct-To-Consumer

Independent

Aqua, Kaolin, Cetyl Alcohol, Glyceryl Stearate, Stearic Acid, Glycerin, Succinic Acid, Salicylic Acid, Propanediol, Colloidal Sulfur, Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate, Sodium Anisate, Sodium Levulinate, Chamomilla Recutita (Chamomile) Flower Extract, Acacia Senegal Gum, Glyceryl Caprylate, Sodium Citrate, Sclerotium Gum, Xanthan Gum, Citric Acid, Potassium Sorbate

I've tried an older version of this product over some breakout areas and it seems to have improved the appearance of my skin. As this purple-tinted product does contain clay, it does feel drying to spread.

Independent

Water, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil*, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil*, Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe) Leaf Juice*, Potassium Hydroxide+, Vegetable Glycerin*, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter*, Calendula Officinalis (Calendula) Flower Extract*, Citric Acid

This gentle foam cleanser takes a high suds approach to removing grime from my face and body. It has a slightly nutty scent and does not leave my skin feeling stripped of moisture after a shower. The pump mechanism is reliable and I love how simple the ingredient list is. I would be very comfortable with recommending this product to my peers with babies.

Baby Face Mineral Sunscreen Face Stick

Independent

Zinc Oxide 22%, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil*, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil*, Cera Alba (Beeswax) *, Euphorbia Cerifera Cera (Candelilla) Wax, Copernicia Cerifera (Carnauba) Wax*, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter*, Tocopherol, Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter*, Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf Juice *, Calendula Officinalis (Calendula) Flower Extract*

The white cast this SPF stick leaves upon contact can be faint rather quickly when massaged onto the skin. This product is packaged in a plastic cylinder with the twisting mechanism on the bottom. It's fragrance free and leaves a matted finish on the skin. It feels less greasy than its Badger SPF stick counterpart.

Uber-Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen Lotion

Independent

Zinc Oxide 25%, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil*, Cocos Nucifera (Fractionated Coconut) Oil*, Cera Alba (Beeswax)*, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil*, Rubus Idaeus (Red Raspberry) Seed Oil*, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil*, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter*, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran Oil*, Tocopherol, Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Flour*, Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf Juice*, Calendula Officinalis (Calendula) Flower Extract*

I wanted to love this SPF product so bad because it had a no-nensense ingredient list! Unfortunately, this mineral SPF leaves behind a noticeable white cast against my caramel skin that requires extensive massaging in order for it to settle. It smells slightly like the inside of a fish oil pill. This product has left white marks on my black leather backpack.

Hyaluret Serum S13 with Retinoic and Hyaluronic Acid Ester, Beta-glucan, Liquorice and Dill

Direct-To-Consumer

Independent

Aqua, Propanediol, Niacinamide, Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Lactic Acid, Anethum Graveolens (Dill) Herb Extract, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Liquorice) Root Extract, Sodium Levulinate, Sodium Benzoate, Gellan Gum, Sodium Retinoyl Hyaluronate, Magnesium Carboxymethyl Beta- Glucan, Sodium Carboxymethyl Beta-Glucan, Calcium Pca, Citric Acid, Potassium Sorbate

This clear serum had a slightly sweet scent and absorbed quickly onto my skin. The dropper dispensed a generous amount of the watery-like product.

Encapsulated Retinol 3% Renewing Serum

Direct-To-Consumer

Independent

Aqua, Propanediol, Glycerin, Polyglyceryl-6 Stearate, Caprylic/Capric Triglycerides, Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Polyglyceryl-4 Oleate, Tocopherol, Sodium Anisate, Sodium Levulinate, Lactic acid, Cetyl Hydroxyethylcellulose, Glyceryl Caprylate, Anethum Graveolens (Dill) Herb Extract, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Liquorice) Root Extract, Polyglyceryl-6 Behenate, Retinol, Phospholipids, Xanthan Gum, Ferulic Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate, Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf Juice, Sodium Phytate, Salicylic Acid, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Citric Acid, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Potassium Sorbate

This product does include ingredients that give off a hotdog water smell. My face was going through the ringer when I used this product and it wasn't at its smoothest. Granted, I did travel extensively during Labor Day Weekend and did not get ample rest when using this product. It's packaged in a brown glass container with a reliable pump mechanism.

ClariCleanse AHA & BHA Exfoliating Cleanser

Direct-To-Consumer

Independent

Aqua, Glyceryl Stearate, Glycolic Acid, Cetyl Alcohol, Cocamidopropyl Dimethylamine, Prunus Armeniaca (Apricot) Kernel Oil, Salicylic Acid, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil, Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil, Sodium Lactate, Cetyl Hydroxyethylcellulose, Lactic Acid, Xanthan Gum

This cleanser, while packaged in a metal tube, has a plastic twist top container that seems to accumulate/harbor biofilm from the shower. I do feel like the cleanser itself sufficiently removes grime and SPF without being overly stripping. I opted for the fragrance-free version, and because I store it vertically, there have been a number of occasions where it fell down to the shower floor because of how unstable the cap as a foundation is.

HydraOat Soothing Daily Moisturiser

Direct-To-Consumer

Independent

Aqua, Propanediol, Glycerin, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Glyceryl Stearate, Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, Polyglyceryl-6 Stearate, Cetyl Alcohol, Stearic Acid, Panthenol, Glyceryl Caprylate, Prunus Armeniaca (Apricot) Kernel Oil, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran Oil, Argania Spinosa (Argan) Kernel Oil, Tocopherol, Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Flour, Citrus Nobilis (Mandarin) Peel Oil, Sodium Levulinate, Lactic Acid, Polyglyceryl-6 Behenate, Sodium Benzoate, Cetyl Hydroxyethylcellulose, Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Phytate, Xanthan Gum, Sodium Ascorbyl Phospate, Limonene, Linalool

This fragrance-free moisturizer left a matted finish on my skin. Interestingly, the inside of the metal tube has a copper-like liner, which I learned when I used metal shears to cut the container open to squeeze out the last bit of the product.

Butter and Lye

Independent

Saponified Organic Sunflower Oil, Saponified Organic Coconut Oil, Organic Castor Oil, Oat Aminos, Vitamin B5, Organic Jojoba Oil, Organic Avocado Oil, Rosemary Extract

This all-in-one bar of soap lasted longer than Kirkland's version but not as long as the 100 Senses bar. The bar became translucent toward the end of its use. I felt like it did a decent job with removing grime from my body but not as much in my hair.

Independent

Medium Chain Triglyceride (MCT Oil - Made From Coconuts), Carthamus Tinctorius Oil (Safflower Seed Oil), Simmondsia Chinensis Seed Oil (Jojoba Oil), Persia Gratissima Oil (Avocado Oil), Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E), Jasminum Grandiflorum Oil (Jasmine Essential Oil), Vanilla Planifolia Essential Oil (Vanilla Essential Oil)

I received this product as part of a goodie back for a TEDxCUNY event. It's probably the most innovated product I've tried all year. Popping individual bubble gum scented balls releases the right amount of oil onto my fingertips. The only hassle is actually getting individual balls out of their clear, plastic container as they are so tiny.

Smoky* Pacific Mint Organic Lip Balm

Blue Heron Botanicals

Independent

Cera Flava (Beeswax)*,*theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Butter*,cocos Nucifera (Virgin Coconut) Oil*, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Nut) Butter*,ricinis Communis (Castor) Oil*, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower Seed) Oil*, Tocopherol (Vitamin E),mentha Spicata(Spearmint) Essential Oil*,mentha Piperita (Peppermint) Essential Oil*

This lip balm is packaged in a flimsy bbiodegradable paperstock container. It was initially in a tapered cylinder but flattened out over time spent in a pocket (with body heat as a primary driver for contorting the packaging). It's messy to apply when it loses its structural integrity and it pales in comparison to moisturization based on other products available on the market.

Independent

Colloidal Oatmeal. Inactive Ingredient: Water (Aqua), Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice*, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Glycerin, Glyceryl Stearate SE, Propanediol, Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil, Cetearyl Olivate, Squalane, Sorbitan Olivate, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Oil, Cetyl Palmitate, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Bisabolol, Glyceryl Caprylate, Levulinic Acid, Oenothera Biennis (Evening Primrose) Oil, Sodium Hyaluronate, Tocopherol, Sodium Anisate, Xanthan Gum, Sodium Hydroxide, Phytic Acid, Ceramide Np, Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Extract, Centella Asiatica (Gotu Kola) Extract, Calendula Officinalis (Calendula) Flower Extract

This beige product had a sticker that called for storing it in a refrigerator. I kept it in room temperature and its oils began to separate as I started using more of the product. It smells like basil and does not compromise my skin barrier.

Honest Beauty

Independent

Water (Aqua/Eau), Propanediol, Glycerin, Pyrus Malus (Apple) Fruit Extract, Niacinamide, sh-Polypeptide-121, sh-Polypeptide-50, Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate, Saccharomyces/Sugarcane Juice Extract Ferment Extract, Leucojum Aestivum Bulb Extract, Pancratium Maritimum Extract, Hydroxyethylcellulose, 1,2-Hexanediol, Caprylhydroxamic Acid, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Potassium Sorbate, Citric Acid, Sodium Benzoate, Sodium Hydroxide, Sodium Nitrate

This clear, sweet-scented serum was packaged in an elegant glass container and was disbursed through a reliable dropper mechanism. The serum absored quickly onto my face and my skin did not break out at all during its period of use.

Independent

Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Squalane, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Coco-Caprylate/Caprate, Passiflora Edulis (Passion Fruit) Seed Oil, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Seed Oil, Corylus Avellana (Hazelnut) Seed Oil, Limnanthes Alba (Meadowfoam) Seed Oil, Nigella Sativa Seed Oil, Plukenetia Volubilis (Sacha Inchi) Seed Oil, Cucurbita Pepo (Winter Squash) Seed Oil, Copaifera Officinalis Resin, Salicylic Acid, Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root Oil, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Liquorice) Root Extract, Tocopherol, Carapa Guaianensis (Andiroba) Seed Oil, Euterpe Oleracea (Acai) Fruit Oil, Bixa Orellana (Achiote) Seed Extract

This oil presented as a bright orange product that was packaged in a glass container and sealed with a rubber dropper. It has a slight peppery, almost capsaicin-like scent and it leaves a slightly greasy feel after application. I did experience a couple of skin flares in my flexures during the time I applied this product.

Independent

Aqua, Polyglyceryl-3 Rice Branate, Simmondsia Chinensis Seed Oil, Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil, Glycerin, Lactococcus Ferment Lysate, Brassica Glycerides, Cetyl Palmitate, Fructooligosaccharides, Beta Vulgaris Root Extract, Phenethyl Alcohol, Tocopherol, Xanthan Gum, Potassium Lactate, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice Powder, Ethylhexylglycerin, Lactic Acid, Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract, Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root Extract, Maltodextrin, Melia Azadirachta Flower Extract, Corallina Officinalis Extract, Sodium Hydroxide, Clitoria Ternatea Flower Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Coccinia Indica Fruit Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Flower Extract, Solanum Melongena Fruit Extract, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate, Curcuma Longa Root Extract, Ocimum Basilicum Flower/Leaf Extract, Ocimum Sanctum Leaf Extract

This lightblue cream was packaged in a clear glass container with a minimally designed label (which is one thing I value from the product line). The product absorbed quickly onto my skin but I feel like it didn't keep my skin hydrated overnight as well as other moisturizers out in the market.

Mellow Mallow: Hydrating Cloud Cream

Independent

Aqua, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Water, Glycerin, Cetearyl Olivate, Camellia Sinensis (Tea Plant) Leaf Water, Coco-Caprylate/Caprate, Sorbitan Olivate, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Betula Alba (Birch) Juice, Niacinamide, Behenyl Alcohol, Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Water, Benzyl Alcohol, Camelina Sativa Seed Oil, Malva Sylvestris (Mallow) Flower Extract, Rubus Chamaemorus (Cloudberry) Fruit Extract, Tocopherol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Dehydroacetic Acid, Citric Acid, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate, 1,2-Hexanediol, Hydrolyzed Gardenia Florida Extract, Maltodextrin, Sodium Hydroxide

This moisturizer presented as a light purple cream (nearly whipped-like in texture) that melted quickly into my palms. It was packaged in a glass container with a white cap and additional protective seal. It did not cause any irritation on my skin but it was also not as moisturizing for an extended period of time compared to other products on the market. The scent, shaped by fruity notes, did get slightly rancid over time.

Mellow Mallow: Nourishing Gel Cleanser

Independent

Aqua, Lippia Citriodora Flower/Leaf/Stem Water, Glycerin, Caprylyl/Capryl Glucoside, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Niacinamide, Xanthan Gum, Camelina Sativa Seed Oil, Benzyl Alcohol, Malva Sylvestris (Mallow) Flower Extract, Tilia Platyphyllos (Linden) Flower Extract, Dehydroacetic Acid, Citric Acid, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate, Hydrolyzed Gardenia Florida Extract, Zingiber Officinale Root Oil, Maltodextrin, Sodium Hyaluronate

This cleanser smelled like a slightly acidic ginger stew. Val was not a fan of its scent. The product presented as a purple cleansing gel and it did not feel like it provided adequant surfactants to remove grime from the face.

Independent

Euphorbia Cerifera (Candelilla) Wax, *Organic Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter), Sesamum Indicum (Sesame Seed) Oil, Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Oil, Borago Officinalis (Borage Oil), Macadamia Ternifolia (Macadamia Nut) Seed Oil, Persa Gratissima (Avocado) Oil, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil, Tocopherol (Vitamin E), and Watermelon Flavor

This lip balm, packaged in a plastic and white container, smells as described. It keeps my lips moisturized for at least 20 minutes with each application.

Independent

Euphorbia Cerifera (Candelilla) Wax, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter), Sesamum Indicum (Sesame Seed) Oil, Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Oil, Borago Officinalis (Borage Oil), Macadamia Ternifolia (Macadamia Nut) Seed Oil, Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil, Tocopherol (Vitamin E), and Vanilla Flavor

This lip balm is the first marshmallow-scented product I've tried and it definitely has a sweet scent to it. The product is packaged in a white plastic twist tube that does not do a consistent job of retracting the product back after use. The lip balm glides across the lips and lasts for about a 30-60 minutes before I feel the need to re-apply.

Procter & Gamble

Coconut Oil, Shea Butter, Baking Soda, Tapioca Starch, Ozokerite, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Magnesium Hydroxide, Cyclodextrin, Fragrance

This citrus-scented deodorant leaves slightly noticeable residue on a black shirt.

Glycerin, Kumazasa Bamboo Extract, Olive Oil

This green bar of soap is free of fragrance but not worth its price tag in terms of available alernatives in the market. It doesn't strip my skin from moisture after a shower.

Pure Camellia Seed Oil, Unrefined Beeswax, Hinoki Oil, Certified Organic Rosehip Seed Oil

This lip balm is solid in its container and requires some heat/massaging before it can spread across this lips. It leaves a shiny finish.

Organic Shea Butter, Pure Camellia Japonica Seed Oil, Organic Rosehip Seed Oil CO2, Rosewood Oil, Geranium Oil

This product should be renamed as a balm because it's quite thick in consistency. It looks, feels, and smells primarily like shea butter, and it's easy to miss traces of the other oils listed on the ingredient list.

Clarifying Massage and Cleansing Oil

Grapeseed Oil, Golden Jojoba Oil (Certified Organic), Lavender Oil, Geranium Oil, Rosemary Oil, Palmarosa Oil, Maychang Oil, Benzoin Oil, Cedarwood Oil, Grapefruit Seed Extract (Natural Preservatives)

This cleansing oil was packaged in a blue glass container and it left a greasy finish on my skin when applied in the shower.

Peach Moon Herbal Facial Cleanser

Alpinia Zerumbet (Shell Ginger) Hydrosol, Grapefruit Seed Extract

This toner comprises of a simple ingredient of a couple of my favorite snacks (ginger and grapefruit). It smells like a blend between the two and presents as a clear liquid with the viscosity of water. While it didn't disrupt my skin barrier, I can see this product smelling slightly rancid over time.

Palm Kernel Acid, Glycerin (Vegetable), Sweet Almond Oil (Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis), Water (Aqua), Brown Sugar (Sucrose), Camellia Seed Oil (Camellia Japonica), Azuki Bean Powder (Phaseolus Angularis)

This square-shaped bar of soap produces minimal lather. It doesn't feel like it does a quality job with removing grime off of the skin during a shower. It's free of fragrance and has as a dark amber color to it.

Water, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice*, Glycerin, Alpinia Zerumbet (Shell Ginger) Leaf Water*, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter*, Diglycerin, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Butylene GlycolI, Soamyl Laurate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil*, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil*, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil*, Alpinia Zerumbet Leaf Extract*, Alpinia Zerumbet Root/Seed/Stem Extract, Ceramide AP, Ceramide NP, Phytosphingosine, Arginine, Camellia Japonica Flower Extract, Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract*, Albatrellus Confluens (Mushroom) Extract, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Pentylene Glycol, Glyceryl Stearate, Jojoba Esters, Propanediol, Xanthan Gum, Olea Europaea (Olive) Leaf Extract, Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Wax, Alpinia Zerumbet Leaf Oil, Boswellia Carterii Oil*, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Oil*, Citric Acid, Polyglycerin-3, Phytic Acid, Podocarpus Totara Wood Extract*, Tocopherol, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil*, Silver Oxide

This moisturizer was part of a travel-sized kit that was highly plastic and foldable. It had a slight rancid smell after a day of use.

Alpinia Zerumbet (Shell Ginger) Leaf Water*, Water, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice*, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Propanediol, Pentylene Glycol, Betaine, Alpinia Zerumbet Leaf Extract*, Caulerpa Lentillifera Extract, Myrothamnus Flabellifolia Leaf/Stem Extract, Albatrellus Confluens (Mushroom) Extract, Xanthan Gum, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Rosa Canina Fruit Extract*, Achillea Millefolium Extract*, Salvia Officinalis (Sage) Leaf Extract*, Thymus Vulgaris (Thyme) Flower/Leaf Extract*, Sodium Citrate, Citric Acid, Ascorbic Acid, Arginine, Phytic Acid, Silver Oxide

This travel-sized product presents as a clear liquid and has a somewhat sterile scent.

Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil*, Water, Myristic Acid, Sucrose*, Palmitic Acid, Glycerin, Sodium Hydroxide, Stearic Acid, Alcohol, Alpinia Zerumbet (Shell Ginger) Leaf Water*, Sodium Lauroyl, Glutamate, Argania Spinosa (Argan) Kernel Oil*, Hippophae Rhamnoides Fruit Oil*, Alpinia Zerumbet Leaf Extract*, Albatrellus Confluens Extract, Sea Silt, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Leaf Extract*, Vaccinium Myrtillus Leaf Extract, Rosa Canina Fruit Extract*, Achillea Millefolium Extract*, Salvia Officinalis (Sage) Leaf Extract*, Thymus Vulgaris (Thyme) Flower/Leaf Extract*, Podocarpus Totara Wood Extract*, Butylene Glycol, Alpinia Zerumbet (Shell Ginger) Leaf Oil, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Oil*, Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf Oil*, Propanediol, Citric Acid

This mini soap variant lasted longer than I thought it would. The circular-shaped solid had a pleasant herbal scent and produced a small lather.

Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Polyglyceryl-2 Sesquioleate, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil*, Polyglyceryl-2 Caprylate, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil*, Alpinia Zerumbet (Shell Ginger) Leaf Extract*, Vaccinium Myrtillus Fruit Extract, Saccharum Officinarum (Sugar Cane) Extract, Citrus Medica Limonum (Lemon) Fruit Extract, Albatrellus Confluens (Mushroom) Extract, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Fruit Extract, Acer Saccharum (Sugar Maple) Extract, Citric Acid, Alpinia Zerumbet Leaf Oil, Boswellia Carterii Oil*, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Oil*, Tocopherol, Water, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran Oil, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Tocotrienols, Propanediol, Phytosphingosine

I tried out the travel size version and it did as described for an oil cleanser. It has an herbal scent.

Kuromoji Leaf/Branch Water *2, Glycerin, Aloe Vera Juice *1, Water, Rice Fermentation Liquid *1, Licorice Root Extract, Grapefruit Seed Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Phenethyl Alcohol, Yeast Extract, Sake Lees Extract *1

This product presents as clear with the same viscosity as water. It's packaged in a gradiant-painted glass container with a screw top lid. I largely attribute a positive and health skin barrier thanks to the fermentation properties of this product. The sake does give a slightly floral alcoholic scent to it.

Glycerin, Water, Orange Fruit Water *1, Kuromoji Leaf/Branch Water *2, Rice Fermentation Liquid *1, Squalane, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Fermentation Liquid, Phenethyl Alcohol, White Fungus Polysaccharide, Sodium Hyaluronate, Sake Lees Extract *1 , Yeast Extract, Blackberry Leaf/Twig Oil *2, Lemon Peel Oil *1, Sandalwood Oil *1, Orange Peel Oil *1, Grapefruit Peel Oil, Clove Leaf Oil, Bergamot Fruit Oil *1, Roman Chamomile Flower Oil *1

This vegan-presenting serum leaves a sticky finish that's similar to snail mucin products I've tried in the past. It has an herbal scent and is packaged in an orange-frosted glass container. I did feel like it created an overall positive biome for my face.

Water, Kuromoji Leaf/branch Water *2, Rice Bran Oil, Glycerin, Macadamia Seed Oil *1, Rice Fermentation Liquid *1, Glyceryl Stearate, Sunflower Seed Oil *1, Cetearyl Alcohol, Sake Lees Extract *1, Yeast Extract, Sake Lees *1, Phenethyl Alcohol, Sodium Stearoyl Lactylate, Citric Acid, Kuromoji Leaf/twig Oil *2, Lemon Peel Oil *1, Sandalwood Oil *1, Orange Peel Oil *1, Grapefruit Peel Oil, Clove Leaf Oil, Bergamot Fruit Oil *1, Roman Chamomile Flower Oil *1

Unlike the other products I've tried in the Frenava line, this product was packaged in plastic instead of glass. The lotion had a strong nozzle that often times dispersed the runny white cream faster than I expected. The lotion has an herbal scent and gets absorbed quickly onto my skin.

Independent

Shea Butter (Butyrospermum Parkii), Mango Butter (Mangifera Indica), Coconut Oil (Cocoas Nucifera)

At room temperature, this product is rock hard as a slab of frozen meat. It presented as humbly packaged in a plastic disposable container akin to what you would find for restaurant takeout meals. I ended up microwaving a spoonful scoop of this body butter each time in a small ceramic dish for 30 seconds so that by the time I apply it across my body after a shower, it does so in liquid form. It will leave a greasy finish.

Independent

Water (Aqua), Sodium Lauroamphoacetate, Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate, Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine, Sodium Chloride, Glycerin, Citric Acid, Caprylyl/Capryl Glucoside, Phenoxyethanol, Boswellia Carterii Oil, Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Oil, Panthenol, Cedrus Atlantica (Cedarwood) Bark Oil, Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride, Coconut Acid, Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Sodium Dehydroacetate, Glyceryl Caprylate, Polyglyceryl-6 Oleate, Sodium Surfactin, Benzoic Acid, Dehydroacetic Acid, Limonene, Linalool

I received a travel set from my awesome buddy Ricky who visited Australia and gifted me with the country's native skincare products. They were all packaged under Aesop's "Arrival" kit and were reliable to bring in cross-country transport. The shampoo had a forest musk scent that was accented further with the follow up products in the shower. It did feel like it was overstripping my hair's natural oils after a while.

Independent

Water (Aqua), Brassica Alcohol, Squalane, Glycerin, Behentrimonium Methosulfate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Stearyl Alcohol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Quaternium-87, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Boswellia Carterii Oil, Ethylhexylglycerin, Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Oil, Cedrus Atlantica (Cedarwood) Bark Oil, Panthenol, Sodium PCA, Sodium Lactate, Sodium Dehydroacetate, Sodium Gluconate, Tocopherol, Citric Acid, Arginine, Jojoba Esters, Hydrolyzed Vegetable Protein, Aspartic Acid, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Wax, PCA, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil, Sodium Acetate, Glycine, Alanine, Serine, Valine, Polyglycerin-3, Cellulose, Isoleucine, Proline, Threonine, Phenoxyethanol, Histidine, Phenylalanine, Potassium Sorbate, Disodium EDTA, Limonene, Linalool

The conditioner added a silky smooth finish for my hair (which I was trying to grow out at the time) after it was cleaned of grime from the shampoo.

Independent

Water (Aqua), Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Coco-Betaine, Glycerin, Phenoxyethanol, Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Oil, Citrus Nobilis (Mandarin Orange) Peel Oil, Pelargonium Graveolens Extract, Sodium Dehydroacetate, Polysorbate 20, Citric Acid, Limonene, Linalool, Citronellol, Geraniol

If this product was not formulated with phenoxyethanol, it would have been a mainstay in my routine. It has a refreshing floral scent.

Independent

Water (Aqua), d-Limonene, Glycerin, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil, Stearic Acid, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Oil, Cetearyl Alcohol, Ceteareth-20, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Macadamia Ternifolia Seed Oil, Citrus Grandis (Grapefruit) Peel Oil, Glyceryl Stearate, Citrus Medica Limonum (Lemon) Peel Oil, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Phenoxyethanol, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter), Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter, Tocopherol, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil, Triticum Vulgare (Wheat) Germ Oil, Disodium EDTA, Benzoic Acid, Dehydroacetic Acid, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium Citrate, Daucus Carota Sativa (Carrot) Root Extract, Beta-Carotene, Citral, Linalool

This body balm has a strong citrus scent. The travel size made it challenging to squeeze out every last drop of the moisturizer. It did not cause any irritation to my skin.

Independent

Euphorbia Cerifera (Candelilla) Wax, *Organic Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter), Sesamum Indicum (Sesame Seed) Oil, Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Oil, Borago Officinalis (Borage Oil), Macadamia Ternifolia (Macadamia Nut) Seed Oil, Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil, Tocopherol (Vitamin E), and Coconut Flavor

This coconut-scented lip balm provides a layer of moisture to my usually dry lips. It's a larger size than a typical chapstick product, which justifies its slightly more expensive price. My particular twist product had trouble twisting backward into its plastic container.

Independent

Euphorbia Cerifera (Candelilla) Wax, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter), Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Oil), Limnathes Alba (Meadowfoam) Seed Oil, Squalane, Sesamum Indicum (Sesame Seed) Oil, Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Oil, Borago Officinalis (Borage Oil), Macadamia Ternifolia (Macadamia Nut) Seed Oil, Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil, D-Alpha Tocopherol (Vitamin E), and Guava Flavor, D-Limonene, Linalool

This is the best lip balm product I have tried in the past 12 months! Not only is it sensorially pleasing with its guava flavor (although I would totally prefer a flavor-free version), but it actually leaves a reliable layer of moisture on my lips that keeps them hydrated for at least half an hour. It's sized larger than a regular chapstick plastic container and its "genderless" label made me laugh out loud.

Independent

Aqua, Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera), Cetearyl Alcohol (Plant-based Emulsifying Wax) (and) Polysorbate 60 (Food Grade Emulsifier), Squalane (Olive), Prunus Armeniaca (Apricot Kernel) Oil, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Glycerin (and) Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Extract, Dimethyl Sulphone (MSM Organic Sulphur), Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Caprylic/ Capric Triglyceride (Silky Natural Ester), Hydrolyzed Milk Protein (For Skin Elasticity), Allantoin, Piroctone Olamine (Olamine Salt), Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate (Oil-Soluble Vitamin C), Panthenol (Vitamin B5), Polygonum Cuspidatum (Japanese Knotweed) (Resveratrol), Glyceryl Caprylate (Emollient), Pyrus Malus (Apple) Extract, Tocopherol (Natural Vitamin E), Humulus Lupulus (Hops) Extract

This beige-tinted moisturizer leaves a mattified finish and turned rancid after a couple of weeks of use.

Independent

Aqua, Magnesium Chloride, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil, Cetearyl Alcohol (Plant-Based Emulsifying Wax), Cetearyl Glucoside, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Capric/Caprylic Triglyceride (Silky Natural Ester), Piroctone Olamine (Olamine Salt), Xanthan Gum, Sodium Gluconate, Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate, Sodium Dehydroacetate, Tocopherol (Natural Vitamin E), Citric Acid

This product presents as a white cream that leaves a matted and unscented finish. At times, the chalky finish left my skin feeling more dried out than normal.

Independent

Centella Asiatica Herb Tincture, Matricaria Chamomilla Flower Liquid Extract, Aloe Vera, Inner Leaf Juice Concentrate, Sage Oil Dalmatian, Purified Water, Almond Oil, Cetostearyl Alcohol & Polysorbate 60, Olive Oil, Squalane, Piroctone Olamine, Allantoin, D-alpha-Tocopheryl Acetate, Citric Acid, Xanthan Gum, Humulus Lupulus Flower Extract Liquid Concentrate

This moisturizer takes time to absorb onto the skin. It presents as a white cream with a slightly rancid floral scent.

Baby Fast-Absorbing Lotion with Ceramides

Independent

Aqua, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil, Stearic Acid (Plant-Based Emulsifier), Cetearyl Alcohol (Plant-Based Emulsifying Wax), Glycerin, Glyceryl Monostearate, Niacinamide, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice (Aloe Vera), Squalane (Olive), Ceteareth-20, Piroctone Olamine (Olamine Salt), Allantoin, Bisabolol (German Chamomile), Sodium Dehydroacetate, Citric Acid (To Balance pH), Mel (Honey), Sodium Citrate, Ceramide NP, Pyrus Communis (Pear) Fruit Extract, Acetum (Apple Cider Vinegar), Tocopherol (Natural Vitamin E)

This product did what it purported to do: it absorbed on my skin quickly and left the skin feeling moisturized overnight! It's packaged in a plastic container that I ended up cutting toward the end of its product life cycle so that I could use every last drop.

Whole Foods

Independent

Organic Aloe† , Xanthan Gum, Water (and) Gluconic Acid (and) Sodium Benzoate (from Cassia Oil and Natural Fructose Sources), Glyceryl Caprylate (From Non-GMO Plant Material), Citric Acid

This fragrance-free, clear aloe vera product leaves a tightening, astringent feeling on my skin. It seems to pill up when layered with other moisturizers.

Independent

Aqua, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil, Cetearyl Alcohol (Plant-Based Emulsifying Wax), Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice (Aloe Vera), Stearic Acid (Plant-Based Emulsifier), Polysorbate 60 (Food Grade Emulsifier), Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran Oil, Tocopherol (Natural Vitamin E), Piroctone Olamine (Olamine Salt), Allantoin, P Anisic Acid (Natural Preservative), Coco Caprylate (Coconut-Based Conditioner), Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride (Guar Gum), Hydrolyzed Milk Protein (For Skin Elasticity), Fragrance (Phthalate Free - Oatmeal), Humulus Lupulus (Hops) Extract.

This beige moisturizer smells like clay. I used up this product mostly during the last week of 2024 and during this time, my skin was quite inflamed across my body. The product did not further comprise the broken skin on my back after a Chinese cupping session. However, my skin still felt dry the morning after I applied this.

Marie Veronique

Independent

Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Seed Oil, Glycerin, Aqua, Decyl Glucoside, Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract, Cocamidopropylamine Oxide, Salix Nigra (Willow) Bark Extract, Tocopherol (Mixed), Sucrose Cocoate, Sodium Chloride, Beta-Sitosterol, Squalene

This shaving oil leaves a milky finish upon contact with water. It has a slightly sweet scent and is packaged in an amber glass container. The pump nozzle has been unreliable in its dispersion of the shaving oil.

Marie Veronique

Independent

Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Seed Oil, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Prunus Armeniaca (Apricot) Kernel Oil, Aqua, Sucrose Cocoate, Decyl Glucoside, Sambucus Nigra (Elderberry) Fruit Extract, Xanthan Gum, Tocopherol (Mixed), Beta-Sitosterol, Superoxide Dismutase, Probiotics, Galactooligosaccharides, Beta-Glucan, Ganoderma Lucidum (Mushroom) Extract, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Glycerin, Squalene, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, Maltodextrin

This oil cleanser leaves behind a greasy finish that needs to be followed up by a second cleanse. The product could have used better emulsifying ingredients as there are noticeable parts of the cleanser that did not fully mix and remained clumped in its miniature glass container.

Marie Veronique

Independent

Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Infusion, Vitamin C (L-Ascorbic Acid, L-Ascorbyl Palmitate, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate), Olea Europaea (Olive) Oil, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, Prunus Armeniaca (Apricot) Kernel Oil, Populus Tremuloides (Aspen) Bark, Mixed Tocopherols (Vitamin E), Xanthan Gum, Ferulic Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate, Ceramide NP (N-Acylated Phytosphingosine), Unndaria Pinnatifida Cell Culture Extract , Sodium Salicylate, Acetyl Glucosamine, Potassium Sorbate, Terminalia Ferdinandiana (Kakadu Plum) Fruit Extract, Thioctic (Alpha-Lipoic) Acid, L-Glutathione, Ubiquinone (CoQ10), Solanum Lycopersicum (Tomato) Fruit/Leaf Stem Extract, Astaxanthin

The product is packaged in a glass container that dispenses small amounts of serum with each pump (which means I'd need to effectively pump the product at least 8 times to get a decent amount for application). Be warned: the ferulic acid gives the serum a hot dog water fragrance.

Dewy Monday

Asian American-Owned

Independent

Saponified Shea Butter and Oils of (Olive, Coconut, Avocado, Castor), Brazilian Red Clay, Fragrance, Dried Roses, Dried Calendula Petals

I kindly received a trial sample of this product with my Shopify order—I love it when small business owners add that human touch in their packaging! The product itself presents as a light red bar of soap with a pleasant garden scent. There are flower petals within the bar of soap.

Dewy Monday

Asian American-Owned

Independent

Golden Jojoba Oil, Safflower Oil, Apricot Kernel Oil, Sweet Almond Oil, Jasmine Flower Extract, White Grapefruit Oil, Blood Orange Oil, Rosemary Leaf Extract

My skin flared up the final week of 2024 and this body oil did not do much to improve the condition of my skin. It has a strong floral scent (I was expecting more of a sweeter jasmine fragrance but this one reminds me of the jasmine fragrances that are sold in the artisanal shops of Cairo, Egypt).

Dewy Monday

Asian American-Owned

Independent

Japanese Camellia Seed Oil, Golden Jojoba Oil, Rosehip Oil, Meadowfoam Oil, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate (Vitamin C), Sea Buckthorn Oil, Grapefruit Oil, Blood Orange Oil, Geranium Oil, Rosemary Leaf Extract

This bright orange oil has a pleasant citrus scent and adds a nice layer of moisture on top of the skin after a shower. Its glass packaging brings out its color and its aroma puts me in a good mood everytime I apply it.

Hydro-Stars Clear Facial Pimple Patch Refill

Independent

These pimple patches are packaged four-at-a-time onto a clear plastic sheet. They did not dislodge from my face during sleeping but they were not as efficacious in absorbing oil on my face as other pure hydrocolloid products on the market I've tried out previously.

Blemish Breakthrough Stick It to Zits Pimple Patches

Independent

These clear patches adhere strongly to the packaging, so sometimes they closed on themselves when I tried to apply them to my face.

Unscented Unscented Baking Soda Free Deodorant Cream

Meow Meow Tweet

Independent

*Manihot Esculenta (Arrowroot) Powder, Magnesium Hydroxide, *+Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, *+Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Fruit Butter, *Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil

Packaged in a metal tin, this fragrance free variant does not leave a mark on the underarms of my garments. I do still prefer the scented grapefruit version of this product.

Independent

Aqua, Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract, Propanediol, Aminopropyl Ascorbyl Phosphate, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Benzyl Alcohol, Benzoic Acid, Dehydroacetic Acid, Citric Acid

This Vitamin C application was the best product I've been able to try in the now-expired Consonant skincare line. The serum was free of fragrance and it felt pleasant to apply onto my skin. It's packaged in an opaque plastic container, which provides protection from UV exposure.

Dabble and Dollop

The Health Place

Independent

Water (Aqua), Jojoba Esters, Cetearyl Alcohol, Brassica Alcohol, Brassicyl Valinate Esylate, Beta-Glucan, Glycerin, Hydrolyzed Jojoba Esters, Caprylhydroxamic Acid, Glyceryl Caprylate

This white cream moisturizer does not instantly absorb onto the body. It's free of fragrance and is packaged in a squeezable plastic tube. It does not leave my skin moisturized overnight.

Dabble and Dollop

The Health Place

Independent

Water (Aqua), Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine, Beta-Glucan, Coco-Glucoside, Sodium Laurylglucosides Hydroxylpropylsulfonate, Gluconolactone, Sodium Benzoate

This is a no-nonsense cleanser that I would feel comfortable using on my own future babies. It produces a nice lather and is contained within a plastic white pump. It's economical for its volume, although it is too large to carry on trips.

Black-Owned

Independent

Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Nut Oil, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, Cera Alba (Natural Beeswax), Citrus Paradisi (Grapefruit) Peel Oil, *Limonene, *Linalool, *Citral

This deodorant has a pleasant critrus scent. It does not leave a stain on the underarm area of shirts, but it also does not adequately provide the level of odor control that I've seen from other products.

Master Plan Collagen Renew Growth Factor Serum

Black-Owned

Independent

Water/Aqua, Human Stem Cell Conditioned Media, Propanediol, Glycerin, Anthemis Nobilis Flower Water, Lactobacillus/Nereocystis Luetkeana Ferment Filtrate, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Tremella Fuciformis (Mushroom) Extract, Sodium Citrate, Disodium Adenosine Triphosphate, Sodium, Hyaluronate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Benzoic Acid, Panthenol, Lentinus Edodes Mycelium Extract, Caprooyl Tetrapeptide-3, Hexapeptide-33, Nonapeptide-1, Palmitoyl Dipeptide-10, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, Phosphatidylcholine, Sh-Oligopeptide-1, Lecithin, Pullulan, Sclerotium Gum, Xanthan Gum

While this is one of the most expensive serums I've ever emptied, I haven't observed any substantive changes (for better or worse) on my skin when applying this after a shower during the winter months. It does come beautifully packaged in a glass container with an air pump, but I can't justify its egregious price point. (I took advance of a Black Friday sale for a price reduction.)

Clean Reveal Brightening Glycolic + PHA Gel

Black-Owned

Independent

Water/Aqua/Eau, Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Glycolic Acid, Gluconolactone, Coco-Glucoside, Potassium Hydroxide, Sodium Chloride, Panthenol, Sodium Lauroamphoacetate, Sodium Laurate, Rosa Moschata Seed Oil, Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract, Melia Azadirachta Flower Extract, Corallina Officinalis Extract, Coccinia Indica Fruit Extract, Solanum Melongena (Eggplant) Fruit Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Flower Extract, Ocimum Sanctum Leaf Extract, Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root Extract, Ocimum Basilicum (Basil) Flower/Leaf Extract, Tanacetum Annuum Flower Oil, Lauramidopropyl Hydroxysultaine, Sodium Lauroyl Glycinate, Stearamidopropyl Dimethylamine, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate

The glass green packaging of this product is undoubtedly elegant. The nozzle is reliable and requires a bit of calculated pressure to dispense the product. The cleanser itself is a thick, brown goop that is similar in viscosity to maple syrup. It has a sweet fragrance and does produce a nice cleansing effect. However, there are plenty of cleansers that can achieve the same impact at more than half the price point of this product. It feels like I am paying more for the packaging than the cleanser.