As someone whose WFH desk could rival Sephora’s, I’m constantly asking the following question: What is your all-time favorite skin care product? It always takes me a long time to respond – mainly because it feels like I’m picking on a favorite child, but also because the answer varies depending on the day. On certain occasions (especially during winter), buttery moisturizers and body exfoliators become my zero-hesitation MVP. On others, dark spot correctors and acne treatments are my ride or die. Oh, the joys of having mixed skin!
But suppose I Was To crown me my top winner, no matter the season, skin concern, or stage of my life. Will I be able to choose? Like. I can’t choose just one (sorry!), but I’ve narrowed my favorites down to three standout recs — for the record not including sunscreen, which would have been my fourth (don’t come for me!). Below, find my holy grails.
1. Lima Laser Pro
Yes, I’m looking at the price tag. yes i know it’s technically a Skin care devices—no topical formulas. And, yes, I still recommend it with every aspect of my existence. The Lyma Laser transformed my skin, period. (There’s a reason celebrities, including Sabrina Carpenter, Sofia Richie GringeAnd Jessica Simpson, naturally, sings its praises!) When I first tried it a year ago, I struggled with inflammation, dullness, and dark spots. loved Live on my chin and jaw. A few months later, I had the clearest, smoothest skin of my life. When you understand the ability of the Lima Laser to reduce inflammation, increase collagen production, and reduce hyperpigmentation, you will know that this is no coincidence.
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I wrote a full article discussing how this works, which you can find HereBut as a little refresher, the device relies on low-level, near-infrared light to stimulate collagen and cell renewal within the skin. It actually triggers a genetic switch inside each skin cell that encourages it to make collagen and elastin at a faster rate, as well as increase blood flow which, in turn, helps other aspects of skin healing (dark spots, rosacea, overall dullness, etc.). The best part? It does this without “injuring” the skin, like other lasers, to start the healing process. You don’t really feel a thing when you slide it over your skin.
Now, I will caveat this by saying that you need to use the Lyma laser every day to see results, even if you interrupt it. pro version (which has the power of three Lyma lasers in one). You can’t expect it to work its science-backed magic if you don’t use it consistently. I personally used the Pro every day for six months before my wedding and, as I mentioned above, I got the smoothest, most even-toned skin of my life. I admit that I gave up the habit for a while during the holiday season and finally decided to pick it up again in late January after several breakouts. Now? My skin is back to its pre-wedding glow—and I take full credit for it Lima.
2. Mother Science Retinol Synergist
maternal science
Retinol Synergist
I’ve tried my fair share of retinol serums, and yet I always come back to this powerful but non-irritating formula. With 0.3% encapsulated retinol and malassezin – a powerful antioxidant found to be 10 times more powerful than vitamin C in targeting dark spots, which is my main concern – it keeps my skin clear, supple and healthy.
This is one of those retinol serums that you can use daily without worrying about disrupting your skin barrier, as it contains a soothing ingredient called trehalose that helps retain moisture and also creates a lipid blend to provide extra softness to the skin. I’m someone who benefits from daily, low-concentration retinol (my combination skin thrives with constant cell turnover), and it never fails to make me look glowy. i have went through three bottles and counting! I suggest you get it when it’s on sale for Sephora’s savings program.
3. You Beauty The Super Hydrator
you beauty
super hydrator
Last but not least, we have U Beauty’s Super Hydrator, a moisturizer that I can actually see using for the rest of my life. (It’s also on sale at Sephora right now, FYI!) It’s intensely hydrating thanks to the brand’s proprietary Hydra-Siren capsules, which deliver water into the deeper layers of the skin, yet its texture is light enough to be used during the warmer months without feeling too oily.
it’s definitely a luxury skin care investmentBut IMO it’s incredibly worth it. (Believe me, I don’t make spendy recommendations lightly. When a skin care product costs that much, I’m extra diligent about testing it to make sure it’s right.) I’ve tried this formula on several friends as well, and now, it’s the only moisturizer they’ll use. you have been warned!
More (on sale!) Skincare Products I Love
beauty of joseon
Dayscreen 2-in-1 SPF 30 Moisturizer
Told you SPF would make the list! Korean sunscreens are truly excellent, and I appreciate this new launch from Beauty of Joseon. Silky and hydrating, it feels more like a moisturizer than a sunscreen.
olehenriksen
Peach Glaze 2% Niacinamide Cleanser
I’ve been using this cleanser every morning for the past few weeks, and I can’t believe how soft my skin feels after washing.
Sophie Pavitt Face
Mandelic Clearing Serum
I have gone through so many of these bottles that it is difficult to even count. If you haven’t tried Celebrity Esthetician yet Sophie Pavitt’s Line, I recommend starting with this texture-smoothing formula.
Glow Recipe
Prickly Pear Peptide Mucin
Take it from me, this vegan, snail-free mucin is a one-way ticket to glass skin.
Sulwhasoo
Essential Revitalizing Water
You won’t realize how badly you need a toning essence until you try this amazing essence.
tower 28
SOS Daily Hypochlorous Acid Spray
Hypochlorous acid spray will always be a part of my daily routine. I keep one in my bag at all times when the weather is hot.
The Rhodes Glazing Mist is also one such remedy for dry, chronically dehydrated skin.
