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Is This $300 Beauty Device Created by MIT Scientists Actually Worth It?

With a seemingly never-ending number of beauty products on the market, it’s not always easy to keep up with all the new options out there. Between tools like red light therapy devices and anti-aging products like wrinkle creams, there’s something for almost everyone. But if you’re looking to make those products go the distance and work more effectively, then Droplette may be a new addition to look into.

Ahead, we break down Droplette, a skincare microinfuser that delivers serums in a micro-mist form, which the brand (founded by two MIT-trained Ph.D. scientists, Madhavi Gavini and Rathi Srinivas) claims results in skincare products being absorbed deeper into your skin. Read on for Good Housekeeping Institute Beauty, Health & Sustainability Lab scientists’ take on how Droplette works, if Droplette is worth it, how often you should use it and more.

Droplette Microinfusion Device

Droplette Microinfusion Device

What is Droplette?

The vividly-colored tool is more than just a pretty addition to your bathroom vanity. This small, handheld device mists your face with active ingredients, using “advanced fluid physics to ‘inject’ active ingredients deep into the skin through a powerful yet gentle micro-mist,” explains Gavini, Founder and CEO of Droplette. The ingredients are “intended to get into (not just onto) the skin,” she notes. The brand claims it’s a substitute for injectables.

How does Droplette work?

Droplette is made up of two main components, a piezo and a pump. A piezo is “a fine mesh that transforms liquid serums into tiny drops,” explains Gavini. The pump then acts to propel the drops. Think of it like a Nespresso: you insert your desired serum capsule into the device, then the piezo and pump go to work, resulting in the device propelling a fine mist. Droplette creates “particles that are 100 times smaller than the width of a single hair to allow for deep infusion beyond the skin barrier,” Gavini says. The brand claims this mist can be absorbed up to 20 cell layers deep into your skin.

When buying a Droplette, in addition to the $299 price tag for the actual device, you can choose capsules to customize your experience. Currently, the brand offers the following capsule subscriptions, delivered every 28 days (with the option to cancel at any time):

  • Collagen Hydrofiller containing 10% collagen capsules ($79 for a 30-pack and $39 for a 12-pack)
  • Retinol Renewer containing 0.15% retinol capsules ($79 for a 30-pack and $39 for a 12-pack)
  • Glycolic Illuminator containing 8% glycolic acid capsules ($79 for a 30-pack and $39 for a 12-pack)
  • Tranexamic Eraser containing 5% tranexamic capsules ($110 for a 30-pack and $60 for a 14-pack)
  • 17-Volt Lip Plumper containing collagen and hyaluronic acid capsules ($60 for a 28-pack)
  • Growth Factors derived from stem cells and containing ingredients like amino acids, advanced peptides and collagen ($380 for a 28-pack)
  • Three combination prescriptive regimens

How often should you use Droplette?

Droplette is meant to be a part of your daily skincare routine, just as any face wash, moisturizer or sunscreen would be. It can be used between cleansing and moisturizing “to replace any serum, mask or essence step,” says Gavini. She generally recommends using it once a day, though some capsules can be used as intensive treatments, such as the Growth Factors or 17-Volt Lip Plumper options.

How long does it take for Droplette to work?

While results may vary depending on your capsule selection, “collagen, retinol, glycolic and tranexamic acid users see noticeable results between two and four weeks after beginning a Droplette routine,” Gavini shares.

However, by using the Droplette app, users can supercharge their devices for more instantaneous results. When the device is set to the Lip Plumper Mode, the 17-Volt Lip Plumper capsules “are proven to increase lip volume and surface area by 40% after a single usage,” reports Gavini, though this claim hasn’t been substantiated by the GH Beauty Lab.

Is Droplette worth it?

Though Droplette is pricey, it’s worth taking a look into. As a medical-turned-cosmetic handheld device, clinical trials have been completed by a third party and all protocols reviewed and approved by an Institutional Review Board, with all trials including at least 40 subjects across a broad range of skin tones and ethnicities. In the Radiant Detox Regimen trial, Droplette reports that 100% of subjects had an improvement in skin elasticity and skin hydration.

purple droplette skincare device being held in someone's hand

The Droplette device.

Good Housekeeping Institute Beauty Lab

“The GH Beauty Lab was impressed with Droplette’s ability to generate and propel fine and steady aerosol mist from a fluid formula,” says GH Beauty Lab Senior Chemist Sabina Wizemann. “In our test, we found the device easy to use, though some found it a ‘bit bulky’ to hold.” Note that “the Lab noticed that the serum could escape from its capsule and trickle down the aerosol-expelling port, an issue the company is addressing,” she adds. “Some reported that the fine mist could find its way into their mouth, so we recommend keeping both your mouth and eyes closed during application.”

Another tip: the capsules are not individually labeled, so keep them in their original packaging to avoid confusion if you use multiple formulas, Wizemann advises. GH Beauty Lab Executive Director Birnur Aral, Ph.D., also suggests avoiding breathing in the surrounding air during the application, “so it’s less likely for the product to be inhaled.”

This content is imported from OpenWeb. You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site.

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The Princess of Wales makes a case for eschewing the Christmas jumper in favour of the festive cardigan

Late last night, the Prince and Princess of Wales, released yet another promotional teaser (opens in new tab) on Instagram for the ‘Together at Christmas’ special, which is set to air on ITV at 7:00 PM on Christmas Eve. The special will be hosted by Kate Middleton herself and is dedicated to Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. 

In the promotional video, the royal can be seen discussing the purpose of the carol service (opens in new tab) as well as the important people that will be joining for the event. Middleton was wearing an appropriately festive look for the occasion, dressed in an embellished black cardigan that featured a contrasting gold trim. 

The cardigan is by the London-based label, Self Portrait and features sequins and crystal-adorned buttons for that extra level of festive sparkle. 

While many choose to don a festive jumper (opens in new tab) around these times, the Princess of Wales is proving that a Christmas cardigan can be an elevated and incredibly chic alternative. 

The beauty of Kate’s cardigan is that while it does, of course, feel Christmas-appropriate, it is still relatively understated. This means the look is versatile enough to wear for other, non-festive occasions, too. The cardi could easily be worn for a nice dinner or drinks throughout winter and paired alongside a cute mini dress or skirt for other times of the year. 

Want to shop the royal’s cardigan? We’ve found the exact Self Portrait item below, as well as a few other festive Christmas-appropriate cardigans. 

Self Portrait, Black Sequin Knit Crop Cardigan Regular

Shop our edit of festive cardigans: 

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Self Portrait, Melange cropped wool-blend knitted cardigan

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MAJE, Monloup contrast-trim knitted cardigan

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Oliver Bonas, Sequin Scatter Camel Brown Knitted Cardigan

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Boden, Chunky Fair Isle Cardigan

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Experts Explain Why You Might Actually Need a Skincare Fridge

To find the best skincare fridge for you, keep these factors in mind as you shop:

✔️ Size: You’ll have to make sure you have the space for your new skincare fridge! Take a look at dimensions before buying, and compare its footprint with the capacity inside to ensure it suits your needs.

✔️ Capacity: Look at what products you have and how many you’re working with. A four-liter fridge can fit six 12-ounce cans, which is plenty of room for sleeker serum bottles of the same height, but if you have more skincare you’re looking to store, go for a larger 6-liter or 10-liter option.

✔️ Temperature: Pay attention to how cold the fridge can get. Most skincare fridges tend to operate the same as mini portable fridges for food, and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommends that foods be stored at 40ºF or below. “For beauty products, just make sure the fridge doesn’t run below 32ºF so they don’t freeze,” Nicole says. Some fridges have adjustable temperature ranges and even warming capabilities, depending on your needs.

✔️ Brand: “It is wise to go with brand names that are well-established, or those newer brands that have [a] significantly high volume of user reviews,” says Brian Moore, M.D., a board-certified Cleveland, Ohio-based dermatologist and advisor to Illuminate Labs.

✔️Adjustable shelving: “Look for fridges with removable shelves, as you can use these to customize the space,” Nicole says. That way, you can ensure every product has a home.

✔️ Additional features: Keep in mind useful extras that suit your needs, like interior lighting, exterior mirrors for makeup and skincare application or additional power adapters for usage on the go.

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The Princess Of Wales

Last week, an image was posted to Instagram to promote the television special, Together At Christmas (opens in new tab). The event is hosted by HRH The Princess of Wales and is set to debut on ITV on Christmas eve. The royal Christmas carol service (opens in new tab), which was filmed at Westminister Abbey, is the second annual special hosted by Middleton and was created to recognise the selfless efforts of individuals across the UK.  

In the promotional image, Middleton can be seen wearing a sequin-covered red midi dress and luckily for you, we know exactly where she found it. The dress is by the UK-based label Needle & Thread. 

Interestingly, this is not the first time Middleton has worn the sparkly item, as she was actually first spotted in the sequin dress in January 2020. Middleton wore the Needle & Thread (opens in new tab) gown to host a reception to mark the UK-Africa Investment Summit. 

(Image credit: Getty)

Rewearing the dress again in this image is definitely making a sustainable statement, proving that it is, in fact, chic to repeat. Thankfully, it seems this is finally becoming an increasingly accepted notion, as earlier this month actress Kate Winslet did the exact same thing. At the Avatar: The Way of Water premiere, Winslet re-wore a Badgley Mischka gown she had first worn on the red carpet over seven years ago. 

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Why You Need an Antioxidant Serum for Younger-Looking Skin

antioxidant serums

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We updated this article in December 2022 to add more expert commentary and information about each featured product, plus three new picks from Mary Kay, Olay and SkinCeuticals based on extensive testing done by the Good Housekeeping Institute.

You may have heard of antioxidants in your food — but they’re also a key part of an effective skincare routine for any skin type. Antioxidants, like vitamin C and resveratrol, play a crucial role in just how healthy, radiant and youthful your face looks both now and over time. “Every day, we are exposed to environmental factors that create free radicals in our skin, like pollution and ultraviolet rays,” explains Kavita Mariwalla, M.D., a dermatologist in West Islip, New York.

That’s where antioxidants, both in the form of ingested nutrients and in topical skincare products like face serums, come in. Applying skincare made with antioxidants an help neutralize the damaging effects of free radicals, says Dendy Engelman, M.D., a dermatologist in New York City — and, over time, help prevent and repair signs of skin aging, including hyperpigmentation, lines and wrinkles, inflammation and dullness.

In the Good Housekeeping Institute Beauty Lab, our scientists have a long history of testing face serums, including antioxidant and anti-aging serums, using scientific instruments to measure changes in skin over the time period of product use. Consumer testers also evaluate formulas on factors like the appearance of their skin before and after use, plus the product’s ease of use and cosmetic attributes. This data is then collated to find the best serums, including those with antioxidant properties.

Our top picks:

Not all antioxidant serums are created equal — some have bonus benefits like wrinkle smoothing, brightening, calming and more, depending on your skin type and needs. Here, read all about the best antioxidant serums you can buy and their benefits, including GH Beauty Lab top-tested formulas and Good Housekeeping Seal star picks, plus more on the top ingredients to look for.

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1

Best Overall Antioxidant Serum

Mary Kay

TimeWise Replenishing Serum C+E

Main ingredients Vitamins C and E
Additional benefits Firming, brightening, line smoothing
Size 1.5 oz.
2

Best Value Antioxidant Serum

RoC

Multi Correxion Revive + Glow Vitamin C Serum

Main ingredients Vitamin C, peptides
Additional benefits Brightens, evens skin tone
Size 1 oz.
3

Best Antioxidant Serum for Sensitive Skin

Eau Thermale Avène

A-Oxitive Antioxidant Defense Serum

Main ingredients Vitamins C and E, hyaluronic acid
Additional benefits Calming, softening
Size 1 oz.
4

Best Anti-Aging Antioxidant Serum

No7

Protect & Perfect Intense Advanced Serum

Main ingredients Vitamins C and E, peptides, retinol, hyaluronic acid
Additional benefits Smoothing, firming, pore minimizing
Size 1 oz.
5

Best Vitamin C Antioxidant Serum

SkinCeuticals

C E Ferulic

Main ingredients Vitamins C and E, ferulic acid
Additional benefits Brightening, anti-aging
Size 1 oz.
6

Best Antioxidant Serum for Acne-Prone Skin

SkinCeuticals

Phloretin CF Serum

Main ingredients Vitamin C, ferulic acid, phloretin
Additional benefits Evens skin tone
Size 1 oz.
7

Best Brightening Antioxidant Serum

Olay

Vitamin C + Peptide 24 Brightening Serum

Main ingredients Vitamin C, niacinamide
Additional benefits Reduces hyperpigmentation, anti-aging
Size 1.3 oz.
8

Best Antioxidant Serum for Oily Skin

SkinCeuticals

Silymarin CF

Main ingredients Vitamin C, salicylic acid
Additional benefits Purifying, smoothing
Size 1 oz.
9

Best Antioxidant Serum for Mature Skin

Mary Kay

Clinical Solutions C + Resveratrol Line-Reducer

Main ingredients Vitamin C, resveratrol, peptides
Additional benefits Anti-aging, line-smoothing
Size 0.5 oz.
10

Best Antioxidant Serum for Dark Spots

Olay

Tone Perfection Serum Vitamin B3 and Vitamin C

Main ingredients Vitamin C, niacinamide
Additional benefits Reduces hyperpigmentation, evens skin tone
Size 1.3 oz.
11

Best Dermatologist-Recommended Antioxidant Serum

SkinCeuticals

Metacell Renewal B3

Main ingredients Niacinamide, peptides
Additional benefits Line minimizing, brightening, firming
Size 1.7 oz.
12

Best Soothing Antioxidant Serum

Ren Clean Skincare

Evercalm Redness Relief Serum

Main ingredients Beta-carotene, vitamin E, hyaluronic acid
Additional benefits Calming, redness reducing
Size 1.02 oz.
13

Best Antioxidant Serum for Wrinkles

Olay

Regenerist Miracle Boost Concentrate

Main ingredients Niacinamide, peptides
Additional benefits Line smoothing
Size 1 oz.

How we test antioxidant serums

To determine the best serums, including those with antioxidants, GH Beauty Lab scientists first label-mask the products to eliminate bias, then distribute them to dozens of consumer testers, who use the formulas in their daily routines over a set time period between four and twelve weeks. In the Lab, analysts use the Visia Complexion Analyzer device to track changes in skin during the product’s use, including hyperpigmentation, lines and wrinkles, and pores.

When applicable, the Cutometer machine (below), which gauges skin laxity, is used to measure changes in firmness. Testers also report their feedback on skin’s look and feel during and after use, perceived changes in skin, and product attributes such as ease of use, scent, texture and absorption. Hundreds of data points are then tallied to find the best serums to target specific skincare issues.

What to look for when shopping for the best antioxidant serum

Although many ingredients are touted for their antioxidant effects, these are the most proven effective actives to seek out in face serums, according to Dr. Mariwalla:

✔️ Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, known for reducing hyperpigmentation and evening skin tone. It’s the gold standard of antioxidants and is best for combination or dry skin, but steer clear if you’re oily or acne-prone, says Dr. Mariwalla, since “vitamin C does make some people break out.”
✔️ Niacinamide, a form of vitamin B3, has added benefits including brightening, minimizing wrinkles, and strengthening the skin barrier to lessen dryness and irritation. It’s generally well-tolerated by combination, dry and sensitive skin types, and is also great for acne-prone or oily skin as well.
✔️ Resveratrol, a polyphenol found in the skin of red grapes that has anti-aging effects, boosting firmness and smoothing. It’s great for combination, dry or sensitive skin.
✔️ Vitamin E, also known as tocopherol, which can soothe skin, making it ideal for combination, dry or sensitive skin.
✔️ Retinol, a vitamin A derivative, also a wrinkle smoothing and skin tone-evening active. Dr. Mariwalla recommends sticking with retinol if you’re acne- or oil-prone.
✔️ Green tea, a botanical that has anti-inflammatory effects, is best for combination, dry or sensitive skin.

What are the benefits of an antioxidant serum?

Antioxidant serums protect skin from damaging free radicals, helping prevent and repair signs of aging. “A free radical is a molecule with an unpaired electron, which means it is unstable and highly reactive,” says Dr. Mariwalla. “Free radicals on the skin are unstable atoms and as such are always seeking that extra electron from other cells to become stable,” she explains. “Once a free radical takes an electron from another molecule, that molecule becomes a free radical, setting off a chain reaction resulting in oxidative stress, which breaks down skin’s collagen and results in wrinkling and a sallow appearance. As these accumulate, the body is affected in the form of illness and accelerated aging.”

Like skin superheroes, antioxidants bind to free radicals and donate their electrons, stopping free radicals from stealing electrons from skin cells and causing damage. Over time, reduced free radical damage means less lines and wrinkles, hyperpigmentation and inflammation, which can lead to smoother and brighter skin.

When should you starting using an antioxidant serum?

Everyone’s skin is constantly exposed to free radicals, so an antioxidant serum can be beneficial at nearly any age, starting in the 20s. To incorporate an antioxidant serum into your skincare routine, apply it as your first step after washing your face in the morning, evening or both, “that way it [sits] directly on your skin,” Dr. Mariwalla advises.

If you choose to use your serum once daily, opt for the morning, since during the day skin is more exposed to environmental factors like UV light that can cause free radical damage. Note that antioxidant serums should be used in addition to a broad-spectrum face sunscreen, not in place of one.

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

April Franzino, the Beauty Director at Good Housekeeping, has over 15 years of experience researching, writing and editing skincare-related content, utilizing the expertise of GH Beauty Lab scientists and top industry professionals such as dermatologists and aestheticians. For this piece, she reported on the research behind, testing protocols for and results of the GH Beauty Lab’s testing of serums containing antioxidants. Franzino also interviewed dermatologist experts for insights into antioxidant serums as a category.

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Bomber jackets are back and this time they

Kendall Jenner, Hailey Bieber, Lori Harvey and Taylor Russell can’t be wrong. Bomber jackets are back in style and this time around they are bigger than ever…quite literally. 

Thanks to It-brand Loewe and its trendsetting status (opens in new tab), the padded bomber jacket seems to be the look du jour this winter. Practically everything Loewe touches turns to retail gold, so it’s hardly a surprise that this statement piece has garnered the attention of fashion industry insiders. 

First seen on Loewe’s autumn/winter 2022 runway (opens in new tab), the oversize outwear (opens in new tab) was debuted in leather and features an elasticated cropped waist to really enhance the padded silhouette. Evidently, It-girls, actresses and top models alike, can’t get enough of the style.

Hailey Beiber (opens in new tab) has been seen in two different iterations of the look (both the leather and the nylon), while Kendall Jenner (opens in new tab) and Lori Harvey have both worn the green version. Bones and All actress Taylor Russell was also spotted in the jacket, and pictured wearing it alongside the man behind the design, Loewe creative director, Jonathan Anderson. 

(Image credit: Getty)

While bomber jackets as a silhouette are nothing new (the item actually first dates back to World War I) Loewe has certainly added a twist to the traditional. Playing with the idea of proportions, this voluminous cropped jacket is a contemporary take on the otherwise traditional shape. 

This has become somewhat of a hallmark of Jonathan Anderson’s designs. The creative director regularly adds a quirky twist to otherwise classic items. (Who remembers those Insta-famous balloon heels?) 

Taylor Russell wears Loewe bomber jacket

(Image credit: Getty)

Keep scrolling to shop the trending Loewe padded bomber jacket, as well as some other cropped bombers below.

Shop Loewe padded bomber jacket: 

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Loewe leather bomber jacket £5,500 | Net-a-Porter

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Loewe Padded Bomber Jacket £2,150 | Flannels

Shop more padded bomber jackets: 

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Only padded bomber jacket £48.00 | ASOS

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Bomber Jacket, £129.99 | Adanola

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Calie Bomber Jacket, Was £239.00, now £114.40 |AllSaints

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Oversized bomber jacket, £59.99 | H&M

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This $19 Drugstore Face Cream Visibly Reduces Dark Spots

dark spot correctors

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We updated this article in December 2022 to edit down existing product picks and add expert commentary and more information about each featured product, based on extensive testing done by the Good Housekeeping Institute Beauty Lab.

When dark spots (a.k.a. sun spots, age spots or hyperpigmentation) pop up, they can make your complexion look uneven, less clear and even dull. Dark spots can appear on your face, hands and décolletage as a result of sun exposure, genetics, hormones and inflammation, says Howard Murad, M.D., board-certified dermatologist and founder of Murad Skincare, and often become more prevalent with age.

Instead of just covering them with concealer, seek out a dark spot corrector skincare product that can help fade hyperpigmentation for good. “Dark spot correctors are used to lighten and diminish skin hyperpigmentation resulting from acne, sun damage or an otherwise uneven skin tone,” says Alan J. Parks, M.D., dermatologist and founder of DermWarehouse in Columbus, Ohio. “They work by inhibiting the enzyme tyrosinase, which is responsible for the production of melanin in the skin, and may also increase the rate at which skin cells renew themselves, ridding the skin of the dead, damaged cells faster and making way for fresh, new cells.”

Good Housekeeping Institute Beauty Lab scientists evaluate hundreds of skincare products every year, including ones that claim to correct dark spots, from moisturizers to night creams to serums and face peels. The products are analyzed both in the Lab using technical instruments over a set time period and with consumers at home, who provide feedback on factors like ease of use and look and feel of skin before and after application. Hundreds of data points are then collated to find the most effective products to remove dark spots on the face and body.

Our top picks:


Whether your dark spots are from the sun, post-acne scarring darkened by UV exposure or caused by melasma, read all about the best dark spot correctors that really work, as tested by the GH Beauty Lab and recommended by dermatologists.

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1

Best Overall Dark Spot Corrector Cream

Avon

Anew Ultimate Multi-Performance Night Cream

Key ingredients Glycolic acid, peptides
Size 1.7 oz.
2

Best Value Dark Spot Corrector

L’Oréal Paris

Revitalift Bright Reveal Brightening Moisturizer SPF 30

Key ingredients Vitamin C, glycolic acid, retinol
Size 1.7 oz.
3

Best Dermatologist-Recommended Dark Spot Corrector

SkinMedica

Lytera 2.0 Pigment Correcting Serum

Key ingredients Niacinamide, tranexamic acid
Size 2 oz.
4

Best Anti-Aging Dark Spot Corrector

Roc

Multi Correxion 5 in 1 Daily Moisturizer with SPF 30

Key ingredients Vitamin C, resorcinol
Size 1.7 oz.
5

Best Dark Spot Corrector Serum

Biopelle

Biopelle KNR Brightening Serum

Key ingredients Niacinamide, retinol, vitamin C, kojic acid
Size 1 oz.
6

Best Brightening Dark Spot Corrector

Dermalogica

Rapid Reveal Peel

Key ingredient Lactic acid
Size 0.1 oz. per tube (10 tubes total)
7

Best Dark Spot Corrector Night Cream

Algenist

Overnight Restorative Cream

Key ingredients Vitamin C, peptides
Size 2 oz.
8

Best Dark Spot Corrector for Dark Skin

BeautyStat

Universal C Skin Refiner

Key ingredients Vitamin C, green tea
Size 1 oz.
9

Best Dark Spot Corrector for Sensitive Skin

Olay

Regenerist Max Tone Serum with Vitamin C

Key ingredients Niacinamide, vitamin C
Size 1.3 oz.
10

Best Illuminating Dark Spot Corrector

Olay

Luminous Whip Face Moisturizer

Key ingredients Niacinamide, green tea
Size: 1.7 oz.
11

Best Hydroquinone Dark Spot Corrector

Palmer’s

Skin Success Anti-Dark Spot Fade Cream

Key ingredients Hydroquinone, retinol, vitamin C
Size 2.7 oz.
12

Best Targeted Dark Spot Corrector

Versed

Out of Sight Dark Spot Gel

Key ingredients Kojic acid, niacinamide, licorice extract, tranexamic acid
Size 0.5 oz.
13

Best Dark Spot Corrector for Acne Scars

ZitSticka

HyperFade Microdart Blur Patch for Dark Spots

Key ingredients Niacinamide, vitamin C, arbutin, licorice root extract, kojic acid
Size 0.12 oz.
14

Best Dark Spot Corrector for Wrinkles

SkinCeuticals

Metacell Renewal B3

Key ingredients Niacinamide, peptides
Size 1.7 oz.

How we test dark spot correctors

To find the best dark spot corrector products, GH Beauty Lab scientists conduct both rigorous clinical and consumer testing, recruiting women of all ages and skin types to assess the products’ results after at home use. In the Lab, their skin is scanned with the Visia Complexion Analyzer machine to measure changes in the size and count of dark spots, plus pores, skin texture and lines and wrinkles before and after weeks of use, as pictured.

Consumer testers also report their feedback on factors like ease of use, cosmetic properties (i.e. texture, scent), application and the look and feel of their skin following the testing period. The clinical and consumer data is then tallied to find the products that really perform.

What to look for when shopping for the best dark spot corrector

When shopping for dark spot correcting treatments, which can include serums, moisturizers and exfoliators like peels, our experts suggest look for terms directly addressing dark spots or “brightening” and “skin tone-evening” on the packaging. Dr. Parks recommends seeking out formulas that contain skincare ingredients like:

✔️ Vitamin C, an antioxidant that brightens skin
✔️ Niacinamide (a.k.a. vitamin B3), which slows pigment production)
✔️ Hydroquinone, which “interrupts melanin synthesis to even tone,” says Sara Hogan, M.D., a dermatologist in McLean, Virginia.
✔️ Retinol and alpha or beta hydroxy acids (like glycolic and salicylic acids), which increase skin cell turnover to get rid of hyperpigmented cells
✔️ Tranexamic acid, kojic acid, alpha-arbutin, cysteamine, azelaic acid, resorcinol, soy and licorice root extract can also lessen hyperpigmentation, Dr. Turegano says.

“The sun is one of the biggest contributors to developing and accentuating dark marks,” Dr. Turegano says, so applying a broad spectrum SPF 30 or higher sunscreen daily is a must in order to see a reduction in dark spots.

Dark spots are also common in deeper skin tones. “In darker complexions, the presence of more and larger melanosomes, organelles produced by skin pigment cells that contain skin color, increases the likelihood that hyperpigmentation, or unwanted darkening, can develop,” explains Dr. Hogan.

What’s the best way to use a dark spot corrector?

Most importantly, use a dark spot corrector according to the instructions on the product packaging, especially regarding frequency, which can vary from once to twice daily or one or two times per week for products like peels.

But generally, when applying a dark spot corrector, “if it’s a serum or liquid form, it should be the first product that touches your skin after cleansing,” Dr. Turegano advises. “If the dark spot corrector is in a lotion or cream form, it can be applied after a serum.” Always follow up with a broad-spectrum SPF to prevent more dark spots from forming.

How can I remove dark spots permanently?

Good news: Dark spots aren’t permanent! Here’s how to fade hyperpigmentation, whether at home or heading to the dermatologist for a professional treatment:

  • Commit to a skincare regimen for at least one month. The topical dark spot correctors you use at home can really work, but “any at-home age spot-fading skincare product, like a serum, must be used daily as directed for at least four weeks,” explains GH Beauty Lab Executive Director Birnur Aral, Ph.D.
  • Wear SPF. “Strict sun protection is the best way to prevent hyperpigmentation,” says Janelle Vega, M.D., a dermatologist in Miami, Florida. Any dark spot correcting product must be used “along with a broad-spectrum facial sunscreen SPF 30 or higher to allow it to work and prevent further damage,” Aral says. Slather on face SPF every single day in any season and no matter what your skin tone. “Using SPF is still very important for darker skin tones,” adds Jenny Liu, M.D., an assistant professor of dermatology at the University of Minnesota Medical School in Minneapolis.
  • Head to the derm. For stubborn spots, a dermatologist can offer faster, more high-tech solutions, like prescription or laser treatments. It’s always a good idea head to your dermatologist for yearly skin checks to be sure none of your spots are precancerous or cancerous.

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

GH Beauty, Health and Sustainability Lab Executive Director Birnur Aral, Ph.D., has overseen clinical and consumer skincare product testing in the GH Beauty Lab for 15 years, including products with dark spot correcting claims. In addition to earning M.Eng. and Ph.D. degrees in chemical engineering, she recently added a professional certificate in sustainability management from Columbia University to her credentials. Birnur and the GH Beauty Lab scientists also conduct the brand’s annual Beauty Awards selection process, a yearlong effort for the team that involves assessing hundreds of products.

April Franzino is the Beauty Director at Good Housekeeping and has over 15 years of experience researching, writing and editing skincare-related content, utilizing the expertise of the Institute’s Beauty Lab scientists and top industry professionals. For this piece, April worked closely with the GH Beauty Lab to report on the Lab’s top-tested dark spot correcting products, as well as testing protocols and usage advice. She also interviewed dermatologist experts for their tips on how dark spot correctors work, how to shop for and use dark spot correctors and product recommendations.

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Stylish Christmas presents for him (that we kind of want too)

Buying the right Christmas gifts (opens in new tab) for him can prove pretty tricky. We can all relate to the rising panic; with only a couple of weeks left until the big day you need Christmas present ideas, and fast. Well fear not, we’ve got you covered with the best gifts out there that will suit all budgets.

Whether you’re shopping for your boyfriend, dad, best friend, colleague, or a distant relative you’ve picked from the the family Secret Santa, we’ve got all bases covered which means no more wasted gadgets or presents that never make it out of the box.

We’ve hand-picked the best ‘Christmas gifts for him’ available to buy online (don’t worry, we’ve also curated a list of the best personalised gifts (opens in new tab) and the best Christmas hampers (opens in new tab) too, so you’re well and truly covered this Yuletide).

From cool interpretations on menswear classics to some of the best Christmas jumpers (opens in new tab) out there that they’ll want to wear all year round. Let’s not forget the luxe diary for dad or the gorgeous card holder for that person in your life who deserves an extra special treat (or for you to put on your Christmas wish list).

We’ve found plenty of suitably stylish gifts that won’t break the bank too. These budget-friendly bits are ideal for those unexpected visits from a distant relative or your sister’s new boyfriend.

Christmas is a time for relaxing and indulging in a little pampering – as well as feasting on plenty of food – so we’ve included the most delicious smelling fragrances from the men’s department, too.

Who knows, you may even have more fun picking Christmas gifts for him than you will making your own wish list.

Mackage, ROCCO light down jacket

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Fettercairn, 12 YO Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky

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Zara Mountain Woody Forest Aromatic Candle

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Braun Series 9 Pro 9419s Electric Shaver

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Comme Des Garçons Play x Converse High-Top Sneakers

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Polo Ralph Lauren Graphic-Print Socks

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Tom Ford Noir Extreme Set

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Moleskine Weekly Planner 2023

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Missoma Fused Ridge Signet Ring

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Nespresso Vertuo Pop Coffee Pod Machine

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John Lewis Italian Cashmere Crew Neck Jumper

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Beats Fit Pro True Wireless Bluetooth In-Ear Sport Headphones

Wype, Christmas Mystery Box

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Q&A With BYBI Founders Elsie & Dominika – Latest In Beauty Blog

To celebrate our Haul of Fame brand of the month, we chatted with BYBI founders Elsie and Dominika to chat about all things skincare. As a B Corp Certified brand, BYBI brings you skin positive, pro-planet beauty. 

Keep reading to learn more about the brand and the founders’ must-have skincare products.

1. Could you tell us a bit about BYBI and the journey of how the brand evolved to what it is today?

We started BYBI in 2017 with a passion for natural skincare & conscious beauty. Thinking about our overall skin wellness, we applied the same principles of healthy eating to our skin and began crafting beauty recipes literally at the kitchen sink! We shared the journey on our blog Clean Beauty Insiders and quickly saw there were others interested in beauty with great natural ingredients and strong ethics!

From humble beginnings crafting DIY beauty recipes in our kitchens, we went on to train as skincare formulators to understand how to harness the power of potent natural ingredients. We had a book published by Penguin and started a successful podcast along the way! 

If you compare eating an orange with taking a vitamin C tablet, you’ll understand how we think about skincare. We wanted to bottle natural efficacy. We’re all about advanced, complex, natural formulations that are packed full of actives & super easy to use. The quest for results is what drives us–immediate and longer term benefits for glowing, healthy skin. And we don’t believe it should cost the earth–neither literally, nor environmentally.

2. Tell us a little bit about each of your skin story (i.e. What are your skin concerns or goals).

Dominika: My skin can suffer from dryness and dehydration, particularly in the colder months so I’m always looking for ingredients and products that will both improve moisture levels but also truly hydrate. Hyaluronic acid is my best friend in winter and I love rich, thick creams to lock in moisture as well as serums to optimise skin glow!

Elsie: I’m always looking for my skincare to help with redness and undereye circles. I find ingredients high in antioxidants like vitamin c are a great way to even skin tone and anything calming and anti-inflammatory helps with reducing redness, so I love CBD and oats. For under the eye it’s all about ingredients that brighten –  arnica and algae are favourites!

3. If you were stranded on an island and had access to only 3 BYBI products, what would they be?

Milk Melt – our creamy cleanser is perfect for everyone so this would keep our skin clean, clear and calm on that island! It has oat milk and prebiotics to preserve the skin’s microbiome as well as keep it soft and balanced. It’s so good we sometimes use it as a body wash too!

Mega Mist – the ultimate hydration powerhouse with hyaluronic acid to keep skin soft and plump! It can go in place of a toner (after cleansing, before mositurising) or under/on top of makeup. It’s also amazing to keep skin hydrated throughout the day so would be great on a hot (or cold) island!

Bakuchiol Booster – our award winning bestseller that’s a natural and vegan alternative to retinol. Keeps skin strong, youthful and bouncy without any irritation so it’s a must have in anyone’s daily routine. Retinol (vitamin A) is one of the most famous skincare ingredients in the world, known for its collagen-boosting and skin rebuilding properties, but it’s very aggressive. Bakuchiol Booster mimics the skin benefits of retinol but without the side effects, making it suitable for everyone including sensitive skin or for those pregnant or nursing. 

4. Do you have a favourite skincare ingredient?

We love AHAs which are a form of chemical exfoliants and work by eating the glue that holds together your dead skin cells. A buildup of dead skin cells on the skin’s surface can often lead to dull, uneven complexions and accentuates fine lines and wrinkles. Exfoliating with AHAs removes this layer, in turn ensuring that your youngest, freshest layer of skin is on top and looking vibrant and glowing! AHAs can be found in our Acid Gold face mask and Day Glow daily tonic. 

5. What do you think is the most underrated skincare ingredient? 

Humectants are an unsung hero. The most famous being hyaluronic acid but some underrated ones like glycerin that literally draw moisture and hydration to the skin, helping prevent dryness but also giving a visibly plumping effect!

6. What are some of the must-have BYBI products for a winter skincare routine?

BYBI

Anything in our hot pink range was quite literally formulated for dry/sensitive skin and cold winter months! Winter months are harsh on the skin as low humidity levels decrease your skin’s moisture and it’s moving between extreme temperatures indoors and outdoors can be taxing on the skin’s natural oil levels.  Strawberry Booster is a softening facial oil that replenishes natural oils and Night Nutrition is a rich overnight cream packed with superfood proteins from kale, carrot and lemon that repair dry skin as you sleep. Everything in the hot pink range is suitable for sensitive, very dry, flaky or irritated skin.

7. What do you consider the most vital step in your routines?

SPF is critical to keep skin safe and protected all year round (yes even in winter please!). A less talked about step is a thorough cleanse, we believe a two-step cleanse is most effective to remove all dirt, grime and oil as well as support the skin barrier. Not cleansing skin properly can lead to congestion, break outs, dullness and inflammation, so it really is vital! We suggest step one remove makeup with an oil-based cleanser such as Swipe Clean and step two remove all other dirt and grime with a water-based cleanser such as Milk Melt.

8. What’s next for BYBI in the new year? 

BYBI

Our mission is to help people feel positively glowing by making beauty easy and responsible, and next year is all about products that make you feel good, developed in a sustainable way! We have some innovative and very exciting textures, ingredients and formats in our NPD calendar for next year that we can’t wait to launch! 

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Everything You Need to Know About the Hair Color Wax Trend

There’s a new way to color your hair and it doesn’t involve any commitment or chemicals — we’re talking hair color wax. Sure, the newest hair color trend is a little messy. But it’s gentle, safe and doesn’t contain any of the harsh ingredients found in regular hair dyes. The best part: it washes out easily in the shower. We got the 411 on how, when and why to apply hair color wax.

“Hair color wax is a temporary type of hair color for people who want to experiment with fun, vibrant shades but also want to avoid chemicals and damage,” says Sha-Raya Hutchins, a New York City-based hairstylist. The perks go beyond not bringing on damage. “They deposit color onto strands which then easily comes off when you wash your hair with clarifying shampoo,” explains Danusia Wnek, a chemist in the Beauty, Health and Sustainability Lab at the Good Housekeeping Institute. “These waxes do not penetrate into the strand as permanent hair color does, making them gentler.” While every formula has a slightly different ingredient list, “they are generally made of beeswax or a hair wax component, water, alcohol and color pigments,” Hutchins explains.

How should you shop for hair color wax?

“Shopping for hair color wax can be a little tedious, as sometimes you have to try out a few to see which brand takes to your hair texture,” Hutchins says. “Different brands of hair wax have different consistencies, so you really need to read reviews and figure out which brand works best for you.”

Generally speaking, you’ll want to check the (typically short) ingredient list. Beeswax is the top ingredient in hair color waxes that helps the color stick so make sure that’s on the list. Color choice is a big (and fun!) part of the shopping process. There are tons of fun, bold colors to play with and try, especially since you aren’t making a big time commitment.

Hutchins’s favorite hair color wax is Mofajang, as she feels that the colors are super bold and vibrant and it dries and sets better than other waxes she has tried. “It’s also not as messy as some competitors and lasts longer.”

Here are a few top sellers, including Mofajang:

Mofajang Temporary Hair Color Wax
Credit: Mofajang
On Sale

4 Colors Temporary Hair Color Wax

CMWGKBC 4 Colors Temporary Hair Color Wax

Now 26% Off

Credit: CMWGKBC
Curls Unleashed Color Blast Temporary Hair Color Wax
ORS Curls Unleashed Color Blast Temporary Hair Color Wax
Credit: ORS Curls
A Splash Of Color Hair Color Wax
Hair Paint Wax A Splash Of Color Hair Color Wax
Credit: Hair Paint Wax

How do you apply hair color wax?

Always be sure to read the instructions on your hair color wax packaging before applying and start with damp, freshly washed and conditioned hair. The application is super easy: divide hair into sections and apply it (with gloves on, of course) to each section — no mixing required. Keep in mind that a little goes a long way. You can always go back in and add a little bit more if the color isn’t as strong as you hoped; just wait at least 15 to 20 minutes for it to set. While you can use it on wet or dry hair, Hutchins feels that it sets better on wet hair. And unlike permanent hair dye, it shouldn’t be rinsed after application.

In terms of different hair types, “hair color wax can definitely be used on natural hair — it should be used as your wax or gel for your hair,” says Hutchins. She suggests washing and conditioning hair as normal and using your go-to leave-in conditioner or curl cream, then replacing any gel or wax products with hair wax instead. “I typically twist the hair using the wax as my styling gel and allow it to dry for an hour or so to prevent it from bleeding,” she says. “After that you can apply a light oil to your hair, untwist and go.”

Does hair color wax stain clothes?

The short answer: yes! Wnek suggests either wearing clothes you don’t mind getting dirty or wrapping yourself in an old towel. “The pigment from these types of products can really be messy,” she explains.

Is hair color wax good for your hair?

Hutchins believes that it’s good for your hair because it gives you color without all the damaging chemicals. “If brands could come up with an alcohol-free hair wax, it would be even better,” she says. “But hair color wax isn’t damaging and it washes out pretty easily.”

How long does hair color wax last vs. regular hair dye?

Hair color wax can last anywhere from one to two weeks depending on how often you shampoo. “It fades out on its own mostly but washing speeds it up, especially with clarifying shampoo,” Hutchins says. Regular hair dye can last a few months; it also depends on how often you wash your hair or allow it to get wet.

What’s the best way to remove hair color wax?

The easiest and quickest way to get rid of hair color wax is with clarifying shampoo. “It will not come out by just rinsing with water,” Hutchins says.

What are the pros and cons of hair color wax?

Just like any beauty product or treatment, there are upsides and downsides to using hair color wax, especially when compared to traditional hair color. Hutchins shares her thoughts:

Pros:

  • The temporary color. “The fact that you can try any color you want with no commitment is great — it literally washes right out,” Hutchins says. “When it comes to traditional hair dye, you have to commit for at least a month.”
  • The lack of damage. “Hair wax isn’t damaging to your hair and doesn’t alter the texture of your hair,” she says. “Regular hair dye can leave your hair very dry and cause breakage.”

Cons:

  • The mess. “Some brands never fully dry, so you could potentially be ruining a shirt or bonnet because it may continue to bleed everywhere,” Hutchins says.
  • The potential lack of color payoff. “Occasionally a hair color wax doesn’t really show up on your hair and can leave you feeling like it was a waste of time to use,” Hutchins says.

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