The day has come! Versed, the skincare brand we know and love for its minimal, "quiet luxury" aesthetic, has made an official foray into color cosmetics. While the brand has technically dipped its toes into the makeup market (see: Mood Lighting Glow Drops and Silk Slip Tinted Lip Oils), never before has there been a full color collection for the consumer to play with. "Those products got so much love from our community, [so] we saw there was space and a need for more," Lola Gonzalez Marra, head of creative and design, exclusively tells Who What Wear. Brand loyalists were hungry for premium, skin-loving, fun cosmetics that didn't thwart their skincare goals—and with 14 products tagged under $20, Versed has served quite the banquet.

Each formula is the epitome of ease. With their buildable finishes and flexible shades, I get the sense that I could apply a full face at the office or in the back of a cab (even—gasp!—without a mirror). According to Justine Wu, head of Versed product development, I'm right on the money. "We wanted to create makeup that didn’t require a big learning curve or expert precision, something that someone who just dabbles in makeup could enjoy just as much as someone who has a full routine," she says.

Bold, clean lines have their time and place, but Versed Makeup is for those craving an everyday wash of color. Think a velvety balm that deposits the perfect blur of color, a mascara that precisely lengthens yet doesn't make lashes appear too "done," and an SPF-spiked skin tint that offers a Goldilocks (not too dewy, not too matte) satin finish.

And of course, each formula is tailor-made to complement a Versed skincare regimen. (And just like the under-$25 skincare range, all the makeup staples can be found at Target.) "We know our consumers’ skin concerns (sensitive skin, acne, dryness, etc.), so we’ve incorporated those elements into our line to create something we know will work for them," notes Wu. For instance, the liquid eye shadow comes infused with caffeine to simultaneously de-puff the lids as it dresses them in dreamy shimmer; the blush stick, creamy and sheer, contains a fatty acid complex to help cheeks look extra supple.

The WWW team has been (secretly) wearing these beauties for weeks, and we all agree that each product rivals luxury formulas three times its price. So without further ado, scroll ahead to find our thorough testing notes, plus the top picks we each cannot stop using.

Erin Jahns, Beauty Director

If there's one thing I know about my boss, Erin Jahns, it's that she loves a good, fluttery lash. That being said, I wasn't surprised to hear that the mascara had secured a permanent spot in her makeup bag. In addition to the volumizing, clump-free formula, she's quick to praise all the lip products (mask, tinted serum, and lip blush) and highlighter stick.

"These are the three types of products I truly need to feel like myself—a little lash, some glow, and a pop of color and hydration on my lips," she shares. "All of the formulas are stellar and feel entirely comparable to their more 'luxury' counterparts on the market."

Shop Erin's Top Picks

Kat Collings, Editor in Chief

For Kat, a subtle kiss of pigment is the name of the game. Like Erin, she adores the mascara ("[It] made my lashes look fluttery and long but not overly made-up," she says), but the liquid shadow takes the cake in the eye makeup category. Both tinted lip products also earn top-shelf status thanks to their natural, your-lips-but-better color payoff.

Shop Kat's Top Picks

Maya Thomas, Associate Beauty Editor

Maya is a fan of a dreamy, romantic beat, so she favors a dewy bloom of color on the lips and cheeks. "My favorites are the Soft Gloss in Compliment and the Shade Swipe in Brownstone," she says. "I really loved the natural finish it gave me and how easily the product applied with very little effort. They were both perfect for someone who is constantly on the move and can't spend much time creating their dream makeup look. However, with the help of these two products, I believe I can make it happen in a couple of minutes."

Shop Maya's Top Picks

Kaitlyn McLintock, Beauty Editor

If Kaitlyn had to whittle down her routine to just three products (an impossible question for a beauty editor, I realize), she'd commit to skin tint, bronzer, and blush—and she fell in love with each of Versed's buttery formulas. "I love the Skin Tint for its impressive coverage yet natural-looking finish," she shares. "I also love the Bronzer and Blush for their smooth, blendable formulas and the subtle, sun-kissed effect they give my skin!"

Shop Kaitlyn's Top Picks

Jamie Schneider, Senior Beauty Editor

When it comes to my own makeup routine, I always love a good multitasking stick. A swipe of pigment on my cheeks, lids, and lips not only streamlines my routine but also helps me achieve a chic, monochromatic color story. Suffice it to say, I fell hard and fast for the bronzer, blush, and highlighter. (The latter actually reminds me of Chanel's Baume Essentiel, a tried-and-true favorite.) That said, I was genuinely surprised by how much I enjoyed the tinted brow gel and lip scrub—both are such sleeper hits, IMO.

Shop My Top Picks

More Versed Makeup Products You Must Try

Versed has always had community baked into its DNA—long before you could find thriving TikTok alliances for every beauty niche under the sun. It's Who What Wear's sister skincare brand, after all, and it collected real-time data from 16 million WWW readers before debuting its lineup of science-backed, innovative, under-$25 formulas. "We didn't create Versed for ourselves; we created it according to what millennials honestly want," we shared back in 2019, when the brand originally launched.

Well, what millennials want has shifted—as it should after five years! Preferences change, aesthetics evolve, and our overall skincare needs mature as we do. As such, Versed has responded with a "quiet luxury" rebrand, plus three new targeted products consumers had been begging for. Allow us to (re)introduce Versed, all grown up.

It all started by studying "shelfies." (You know, those aesthetically pleasing spreads of curated beauty collections we continue to see all over Instagram.) The brand noticed more users featuring the Buff It Out AHA Exfoliating Body Scrub and Press Restart Gentle Retinol Body Lotion, both of which have a dustier aesthetic compared to the other bright yellows and pinks in Versed's lineup. Versed also experienced more engagement on its own channels with those very same products. "So we knew her style was changing, but we also knew those more targeted products were coming up more and more in her routine," Lola Gonzalez Marra, head of creative and design, says of the Versed consumer. It only made sense for the rest of the brand to follow suit.

Considering the market is practically overflowing with zippy, vibrant products vying for Gen Z's attention, you might be surprised by the decision for more muted packaging. "It is definitely more elevated. It's more mature," Gonzalez Marra tells us. "The colors are the same Versed color palette, just a little bit dustier, more desaturated, things that speak to [the consumer's] style sensibilities." The message is clear: Versed remains committed to its millennial audience. In the great flood of beauty launches, it's a drop of dusty rose in a sea of vivid pink.

Of course the brand has formulas for everyone, regardless of age, but rather than putting its stake in the ground with Gen Z like the lion's share of brightly colored beauty brands, Versed has decided to amplify its millennial impact. "It was honestly a marriage of us wanting to grow up with our consumer that met us in the beginning and identifying that the millennial audience is being served less and less," Gonzalez Marra shares. The layouts are more digestible, too, with each "family" organized by hue. (Retinol products are rose; the hydration line is blue.) Note, the actual formulas have remained unchanged.

The materials themselves also take cues from the prestige market, such as frosted bottles, elevated "romanced" pumps, and other underrated aspects that have a "quiet luxury" feel. "That's something that I really don't see as much in masstige," notes Justine Wu, head of Versed product development. Rest assured these packaging updates don't come with a ramped-up cost—each product still retails for under $25. I like to compare the brand to the high-quality basics in your closet: chic, versatile, and always a safe bet.

"Every choice [we] make is a reflection of [our] style, and that applies to skincare," says Gonzalez Marra. It's why the concept of "shelfies" became so popular in the first place; your skincare routine can totally reflect your personal aesthetic, if you want it to. "We want to be that brand that you feel really good about purchasing in every way—it looks good, it feels good, it works really well. It checks off all of the boxes," she adds. Consider it your capsule wardrobe of skincare.

And today, the wardrobe expands with three new products: a brightening eye gel (with a handy rollerball applicator for instant de-puffing); a creamy, chemical sunscreen; and a hero brightening serum. As for the future? Expect more category expansions, says Gonzalez Marra. "We've dabbled into body, into color with lip oils… There are so many opportunities to create fun, new products at great price points that feel great."

The next five years might not warrant another full-on rebrand (or maybe they will—who knows what the beauty landscape will look like?), but Gonzalez Marra confirms Versed will continue to cater to its millennial audience by giving them exactly what they want (including a new version of the viral "croissant" headband, which may or may not be already in the works). For now, feel free to shop the shiny launches along with the updated Versed staples we editors will forever adore.

Most Wanted is a weekly series in which one editor, staffer, or influencer shares their top 30 must-haves or current wish-list items.

As a mom of two little ones, I am very familiar with the struggle to summon the energy to have a semblance of a fashion moment. In order to make my morning routine more effective in that regard, I have decided to be more intentional in what I keep on hand in both my closet and beauty bag—the idea being to have a solid set of classic pieces, with some trendy moments mixed in, that I can reach for when getting ready. Including a low-lift selection of beauty products that yield high results in the please-make-me-look-rested department.

With that in mind, I broke down my top fashion and beauty finds of the moment below. Think effortless button-downs, cool jeans, and standout dresses alongside effective skincare, glow-boosting makeup, and other essentials. Keep scrolling to discover and shop 30 chic, easy, and reliable fashion and beauty picks that I swear by as a busy mom.

Fashion

Beauty

Is there a perfect evening skincare routine? In short, there's one that can definitely work for you, but no two skincare routines are the same. If the evening skincare products that once worked for you haven't been giving what they should be giving lately, there's a good chance it's because they need an update. Your skin, like all organs, is subject to change and needs specific support.

Luckily, finding the right product lineup for your evenings can transform your skin and, with some expert guidance, isn't nearly as hard as you may suspect. I tapped two board-certified dermatologists and an aesthetician for their advice on how to completely transform the way you think of your evening skincare routine. Keep reading to discover the steps you should be taking and the holy-grail products to consider using pre–beauty sleep.

What Should Be in an Evening Skincare Routine?

"An evening skincare routine should always begin with cleansing the skin of oil, dirt, makeup, and other pollutants that may have accumulated on the face during the course of the day," board-certified dermatologist Julia Schwartz MD, FAAD, explains. This step is vital to make sure your skin is fresh, healthy, and ready for the active ingredients to follow. Next, Schwartz recommends applying a toner and serum, focusing on using your skincare products from thinnest to thickest for them to be most effective.

If appropriate for your skin type, follow up with retinol (or a retinol alternative) to renew the skin and promote epidermal cellular turnover. Finish off your evening skincare with an ultra-nourishing moisturizer, and gently dab on an eye cream to help combat fine lines, wrinkles, and dark circles. "Moisturizing is a crucial step in the skincare routine especially if you have dry skin or are using active ingredients that can irritate the skin barrier," Schwartz says. Is your skin craving extra moisture? It might be time to add a sleeping mask or overnight treatment. 

Tailoring the Routine to Your Skincare Needs

Celebrity aesthetician Ian Michael Crumm encourages tailoring your routine to your skin's specific needs, as everyone's skin is unique. "If you have specific skin concerns, consult with a dermatologist or aesthetician for personalized guidance," he suggests. If you have aging skin, for example, Crumm recommends opting for products with retinol, peptides, and antioxidants. In that same vein, your skin type (combination, dry, oily, or normal) should be taken into consideration while piecing together an effective evening skincare routine. Even a change in weather pattern or season can influence the behavior of your skin! Your age can also majorly influence what products should be a part of your nightly skincare routine.

Up until a couple years ago, my skin type was normal, but within a month or so of my 24th birthday, I noticed it was feeling a lot drier, which called for transitioning products in and out of my skincare routine. For dry skin types, board-certified dermatologist Teresa Song, MD, FAAD, of Marmur Medical recommends using a non-foaming, hydrating cleanser followed by moisturizer, retinol, and then a second application of moisturizer, also known as the sandwich method, to offset potential retinoid irritation. "If still feeling dry, one can even add in a hydrating serum prior to moisturizer application," says Song.

Alternatively, oily and acne-prone skin can benefit the most from foaming or non-foaming cleansers alternated with a sulfur-based face wash twice a week. According to Song, if cream-based moisturizers feel too heavy, but your skin tolerates retinol well, consider moisturizers with water-gel textures. If you fall into this category, prescription retinoid usage may also be effective. Unsure of where to start? There's a fast and easy way to determine which products to try without breaking the bank or putting your skin's health at risk.

Revamping the Evening Product Lineup

Song suggests simplifying your routine by using up the products you have and then adding one new product at a time, identifying repeated ingredients. "To ensure products are helpful, look for the key essential ingredients that will benefit your routine," Song explains. "If budgeting, I would recommend spending less on the face wash and more on the retinoid and moisturizer. I also recommend patients to potentially try a travel size or obtain samples before making a full purchase, or seek advice from a board-certified dermatologist to go over your routine."

Schwartz agrees and says using redundant active ingredients is one of the biggest faux pas in a skincare routine. "An acne face wash, spot treatment, and cream that all have the same ingredient, salicylic acid. I love salicylic acid for acne, but it is probably overkill to use it in three steps of your routine," she says. At its heart, a simple evening skincare routine should have a cleanser, a treatment, and a moisturizer. Schwartz also recommends adding a retinoid (aka, the holy grail of all anti-aging products). She cites retinoids as playing a vital role in skin rejuvenation and decreasing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles paired with a skin-barrier-supporting moisturizer.

Don't be afraid to ask your dermatologist for guidance—that's what they're there for. If you have any doubts about the products you should be using, need help determining your skin type, or have general questions about the steps in a skincare routine, they're the best source. To find out how to create the "perfect" evening skincare routine with the help of dermatologists and an aesthetician, however, you're in the right place. Below are the steps and products you should consider using nightly before you hit the sheets.

The Prep: Makeup Removal

Step 1: Cleanse the Skin

Step 2: Use an Exfoliant

Step 3: Refresh With Toner

Step 4: Lock in Moisture

Optional: Apply Eye Cream

Optional: Reverse Time With Retinol

As a beauty editor, I love finding skincare products that deliver on their promises without emptying my bank account. It's no surprise then that drugstore skincare is one of my favorite topics of conversation. Despite what many people might think, affordable yet effective products exist. It just might take some trial and error to find them. Trust me, I've done my fair share of research and testing. It took a while, but I finally have a collection of these products sitting atop my bathroom shelf.

If you take a look at my bathroom shelf, you'll notice that many of the products are from Versed. This drugstore skincare brand is known for two things: high-performance and relatively low-cost products (my sweet spot) and sleek, colorful packaging that you've probably seen all over Instagram and TikTok.

While I've never been shy about professing my love for the brand, it just announced a 3-day "birthday event" sale, so here I am talking about it once again. Here are all the details. Starting May 10, take 10% off site-wide. On May 11, receive a free To The Rescue Kit ($20) on all orders over $75. Then, on May 12, snag the brand's iconic bubble headband...if you're lucky, that is. They're wildly popular on TikTok, so they'll sell out fast. 

May 10

Versed is offering 10% off sitewide with code BDAYGIFT10. Here are the items I'll be shopping for.

I love this exfoliating mask. It uses AHAs, BHA, and pineapple enzymes to slough away dead skin and reveal a brighter-looking complexion in as little as three minutes. It's powerful, yet it never irritates my dehydrated, redness-prone skin. 

The hydrating toner features humectants and skin-calming ingredients such as algae extract, bamboo extract, and coconut water. It leaves the skin feeling soft and plump, making it a year-round favorite.

You can't go wrong with a hyaluronic acid serum. This one makes my skin soft and plump. 

The serum is formulated with micro-encapsulated retinol, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatories, providing all the benefits of vitamin A without causing dryness, redness, or irritation. It's a game-changer for people with sensitive skin.

If you're like me, and you have hyperpigmentation, this brightening moisturizer will be your new best friend. Sure, it moisturizes the skin, but it also brightens and protects it with vitamin C and antioxidant-rich cloudberry seed oil. 

If you're not using daily sunscreen, start now. This one offers SPF 35 from mineral filters and has a slight peach tint, which means it never leaves a white cast. 

The combination of camellia oil, sea buckthorn extract, and chamomile extract in this product deeply moisturizes the skin, supports the skin barrier, and protects against free radical damage. Unlike other face oils on the market, it gives the skin a healthy-looking glow without feeling too greasy.

This is probably the Versed product I recommend the most. I've tried many other at-home dermaplaning tools, but they're almost never effective. This one is different. It glides smoothly across the skin with a stainless steel blade, removing dead skin and facial hair. Plus, the heavy, reusable handle feels luxurious compared to other, less environmentally friendly plastic handles on the market.

May 11

The company is offering a free gift with purchase to orders over $75—the To The Rescue Kit to be specific.

This ultimate de-stressing kit comes with three products. The first is the brand's Just Breathe Clarifying Serum ($20), which uses to decongest pores, control oil, and prevent breakouts. The second is an acupressure wand, which is naturally cooling and can massage pressure points to relieve tension and puffiness. The third and final item is the Dew Point Moisturizing Gel-Cream ($20), which is a lightweight moisturizer that can help calm inflammation. 

May 12

On the third and final day of the sale, Versed is releasing its wildly popular bubble headbands in black and pink. They'll be sold individually for $17.99 while supplies last. 

Here's the TikTok-viral bubble headband that's been making the rounds on social media. If you've been scrolling through TikTok lately, chances are you've seen an influencer or two (or more) wearing this stylish accessory while walking their followers through their skincare routine. These headbands are made from soft fabric, designed to fit comfortably, and their puffy design is perfect for social media. They'll be available for a limited time in black and pink, so if you're eager to get one, act fast before they're gone.

Next, These 14 Staples Are the Beauty Equivalent of Your Favorite Pair of Jeans. 

Every year, like clockwork, autumn rolls around and I notice my skin looks dull, blotchy, and uneven. I suppose it's only natural. After all, I tend to spend a lot of time outside in the summer (I would live at the beach if I could), and even though I'm serious about wearing sunscreen every single day and reapplying it often, hyperpigmentation happens.

That's why, each September and October, I embark on a quest to brighten, refresh, and generally just even out my slightly sun-damaged complexion. There are two tone-transforming methods I swear by. The first is consistent exfoliation (usually via an effective yet non-irritating resurfacing mask). The second is brightening by way of a vitamin C serum. Lately, I've been using one that only costs $20 yet contains a mixture of potent brightening ingredients. Over time, it's helped me achieve my post-summer goal of brightening my skin and fading discoloration. Keep scrolling to see which serum I'm talking about.

Here it is—the aptly named Stroke of Brilliance Brightening Serum. Whereas most brightening serums are formulated with vitamin C alone, this one contains the powerhouse ingredient along with a mixture of other skin tone-improving actives. 

What are those actives, you ask? They are licorice root, red algae extract, and niacinamide. The first two are skin-lightening agents that inhibit pigmentation. The last one is a form of vitamin B3 that targets discoloration (along with enlarged pores, redness, fine lines, and wrinkles). 

My hyperpigmentation usually presents itself on my nose and cheeks—and most annoyingly—on the sides of my neck and jaw. It starts out as blotchy patches of skin and then tiny dark spots set in. I've been using this serum to brighten these areas over the course of a couple of weeks (I stashed away my other vitamin C serums to make sure I was testing this one alone). I've been applying it to my face and neck twice a day. 

My full skincare routine starts off with a cleanse to remove dirt, sweat, and makeup. Then, I use toner to give my skin a much-needed boost of hydration. From there, it's time to apply the serum in an even layer all over my face and neck—sometimes even my chest if I feel like being really thorough. Since the serum is only $20 a pop, I don't feel like I have to be stingy. 

After that, I move on to moisturizer and, if it's the morning, sunscreen. Twice a week, I'll throw in an exfoliating mask to help expedite the discoloration-fading process. That's it–my post-summer skincare routine to fade hyperpigmentation. 

There's one more thing I want to mention: Anyone who's tried a variety of vitamin C serums knows they can sometimes feel sticky or tacky on the skin and cause sunscreen to pill or become patchy (it's my nightmare). This one is different. It feels lightweight and hydrating, and there's no obvious residue. That's probably, in part, due to the sodium hyaluronate in the formula. This ingredient is a sodium salt form of hyaluronic acid that draws in and retains moisture. (So, yeah, this serum actually hydrates the skin at the same time it brightens it.) 

From now through December 19, use code WWW20 at checkout for an exclusive 20% off the Stroke of Brilliance Brightening Serum.

Shop More Brightening Products From Versed

Next, these drugstore night creams are just as good as luxury ones. 

If there's one thing I can count on in this life, it's that my skin will become dull and dehydrated if I skip out on a single step of my hydrating skincare routine. You see, over the years, I've developed a foolproof rotation of products that I count on to keep my skin plump and bouncy-looking. Every time I have to deviate from that routine to test a new product, I experience a very real kind of hesitation. What if it does more harm than good and throws off my moisture barrier? What if it dehydrates my skin and those pesky fine lines become more visible? 

I didn't have that hesitation before trying out the latest product to come across my desk. It's a $20 hydrating serum that promises to quench the skin with moisture (without stickiness or a heavy residue). I've been using it for a couple of weeks now, and I can confidently say that it's only benefitted my skin. In fact, as a whole, my skin looks softer and bouncier than it did before. Keep scrolling to see what serum it is.

Yep, it's another new launch from Versed. The drugstore-favorite skincare brand just launched the Moisture Maker Hydrating Hyaluronic Serum ($20), and it's chock full of good-for-skin ingredients that can breathe new life into dull and dehydrated skin, like mine. 

The Ingredients

This serum contains a mix of super hydrating ingredients, including hyaluronic acid, polyglutamic acid, and snow mushroom extract. 

By now, we're probably all familiar with hyaluronic acid. It's a powerful humectant, which means it attracts (and holds) water in the skin, replenishing cell hydration. While very different than hyaluronic acid, polyglutamic acid serves a similar function. It's a peptide that, according to the brand, can hold up to 4000 times its weight in water. It's just what your skin needs to look plump, bouncy, and, well, hydrated.

The final star ingredient we need to talk about is snow mushroom extract, which is also known as Tremella Fuciformis. This mushroom is an incredibly buzzy ingredient in the skincare industry right now, and it's showing up in a variety of products and formulations (some people are even calling it the "new hyaluronic acid" in terms of popularity). It's all thanks to its ability to effectively hydrate the skin and offer potent antioxidant benefits. 

The Texture

My favorite thing about this serum, aside from all the effective and proven ingredients, is the texture. It has a unique jelly-like texture. I expected it to be silky and watery, but if anything, it looks a little bit like gelatin. 

Upon reading this, you're probably thinking the same thing I did when I first saw it—that is, if it has a gel-like texture, that means it'll feel sticky when it's applied to the skin, right? Surprisingly, it doesn't. While there's a little tackiness to it right after it's applied, it goes away within a minute, and there's absolutely no residue left behind. It's almost like the skin drinks it right up. 

My Results

Like I said before, I've been using this serum for a couple of weeks now, and it's only benefitted my skin. Overall, my complexion looks fresh and hydrated (and it feels that way too). I've also noticed that the normally dull and dehydrated skin on my forehead and cheeks looks plumper and bouncier. For only $20 a pop, I think this serum is totally worth it. I'll definitely keep it on hand as the weather gets cooler and dehydration becomes even more of a threat. 

Shop 10 More Hydrating Skincare Products

Next, these eye products are totally worth it. 

This summer, I have a few skincare goals that I'm determined to meet. The first is to apply sunscreen every single day (as someone who's prone to sun damage and hyperpigmentation, this one is major). The second is to start using retinol more consistently (which only makes the first goal all the more important). The third is to give some TLC to my eyes and lips. I hate to say it, but I tend to concentrate on my skin as a whole and skip the regular use of eye and lip care products. Not anymore. 

Meeting my third skincare goal means investing in a high-quality eye cream and using it every day. It also means rounding up all of my most moisturizing lip products to use whenever my lips start to feel dry and dehydrated. See, I want to prevent chapped lips from ever happening in the first place—not just treat them once they do. 

Speaking of moisturizing lip products, my go-to summertime favorite is a lightweight lip oil. It looks like a gloss, yet it moisturizes and never feels sticky. I'm stocking up on it so I can have silky smooth lips all summer long. Keep reading to see which lip oil it is and learn how you can get it for free during a summer skincare sale! 

The lip oil in question is Versed's Silk Slip Conditioning Lip Oil. It's chock-full of moisturizing and smoothing ingredients (but more on that in a minute). For now, let's talk about the texture. 

The Texture

The problem I have with most lip oils is that they don't last. Five minutes after I apply most formulas, they all but disappear from my lips. It's hard to feel like they're actually working when that happens. 

This lip oil is different. It actually sticks around. But that doesn't mean it feels heavy and sticky. In fact, it's quite the opposite. It has a lightweight and smooth texture that feels, well, per the name of the product, silky. 

My favorite part about it is that it looks like a gloss. So, not only are my lips being treated to a variety of moisturizing ingredients, but they're shiny, too. It's not giving Y2K goopy gloss, though—just a nice and subtle sheen. 

The Ingredients

The reason this lip oil is so moisturizing is that it's formulated with a combination of plant oils like jojoba, camellia, sesame, and sunflower seed oils. It also contains antioxidant-rich vitamin E for a smoothing effect. Translation? It will treat and prevent chapped lips with every swipe. 

The lip oil comes in four varieties. There's the original clear formula (a classic if I say so myself) and three tinted versions. This one, which is called Blossom, has a soft pink shade. 

Next up, there's the shade Ruby, which the brand describes as a classic blue-red. 

The third tinted lip oil is Fig. The brand describes this shade as a "mauvey berry." 

Even though the colors look bold and opaque when they come out of the tube, they sheer out once they're applied to the lips. If anything, the tinted versions give the lips a subtle wash of color. It's the perfect no-makeup-makeup lip product for summer.

If you can't decide on which shade you like best, and you want all three, you can buy the trio. With that being said, though, you can get a lip oil for free during Versed's Fourth of July summer sale (but I'm getting ahead of myself. More on that in a second). 

This variety pack, which is called Cherry on Top, contains all three shades of the lip oil, so you don't have to choose just one. It's the best way to have a silky lip summer.

Now for the important part. You can get a free lip oil during Versed's Fourth of July summer sale. Consider this your chance to stock up for summer. On the flip side, if you've never tried the lip oil before, now's your chance. See all the details, below. 

From July 1 through July 4, Versed is offering a FREE Silk Slip Conditioning Lip Oil for orders of $45+. Use the code SILKSLIP at checkout.

10 Other Versed Products In My Shopping Cart

Next, these best-selling cult products are worth every penny. 

Many of us struggle with dullness and discoloration year-round, not just in the colder months. In fact, my dullness and discoloration reach a peak in the summer, which is when my skin is naturally exposed to excessive sun and heat. I wear sunscreen every day, but still. And that's before all of the drying salt water and chlorine my skin has to put up with. As a result, just like clockwork, I notice my complexion looks uneven and lackluster at the end of summer. So much so that I'll schedule brightening facials ahead of time. I expect it every year.

This year, I'm not settling for end-of-summer dullness and discoloration. Instead, I'm being proactive and getting ahead of it. Wearing sunscreen, seeking, shade, and keeping my skin cool are a big part of that, but so is my skincare routine. I'm loading up on gentle brightening products (like my trusty vitamin C serum) as well as a brand-new moisturizer. 

The moisturizer in question only costs $20, yet it can effectively brighten and plump the skin. It's helping me prevent dullness and discoloration with every application. Keep scrolling to see which moisturizer I'm talking about and learn why I'm so excited about it. 

Here it is—Versed's Weekend Glow Daily Brightening Moisturizer. It contains a combination of effective ingredients that help me keep my dullness and discoloration at bay. The ingredients are vitamin C, cloudberry oil, and carrot-root extract. Let's discuss.

We all know and love vitamin C, but for the sake of specificity, let's go over the benefits of this ingredient. It's a potent antioxidant, which means it fights potentially damaging free radicals. It's also a renowned brightening ingredient, and that's why it's so often recommended for dullness and dark spots. It can also help firm the skin by protecting collagen and elastin. It's no wonder vitamin C is so highly recommended by skin experts. 

The next two ingredients are cloudberry oil and carrot-root extract. The first one is rich in essential fatty acids, so it's a super-effective skin softener. The second one is another antioxidant, shielding the skin from free radicals and blue-light damage. 

I've been using it for three weeks, and I can already see a slight difference in my skin. The sun spots and freckles that always litter my cheeks by mid-June are paler than usual. The post-breakout marks that sit stubbornly by my mouth and chin have faded slightly. 

Keep in mind that I use this moisturizer in conjunction with daily sunscreen, and without sunscreen, a brightening skincare routine isn't effective. The sunscreen I use it with is also a Versed product, and let me tell you—they play very nicely with each other. 

This is a mineral sunscreen that offers SPF 35 along with lightweight moisture. What I love most about it is that it has a slight peach tint, so there's never a white cast. I find that it blurs imperfections and leaves a natural-looking finish on my skin. The fact that it also contains antioxidants to fight off environmental and electronic damage doesn't hurt either. 

It's become my daily skincare duo. Each morning, I wash my face and apply vitamin C serum, the Weekend Glow Moisturizer, and the Guards Up Mineral Sunscreen, and my skin has been all the better for it. Not only is it helping me brighten my skin now, but it will also help me prevent discoloration come August. Maybe I won't need those brightening facials after all.

10 More Versed Products to Shop Now

Next, This TikTok-Famous Color Corrector Made My Dark Circles Vanish

Thanks to TikTok and Instagram, we're absorbing more skincare content than ever, and because of that, we're becoming more and more aware of the ingredients we want to put on our skin, and just as importantly, those we don't. Some skincare ingredients have been pretty much universally accepted by skincare experts, editors, and enthusiasts—think hyaluronic acid, retinol, and vitamin C. Others, well, not so much. The ingredients that have made consumers particularly wary include the likes of parabens, phthalates, and (what might be one of the most controversial of them all) fragrance. 

Why is fragrance such a concern for some people? It all comes down to its potential to cause irritation, which can be a problem for anyone who has sensitive skin (like yours truly). Thinking that it's better to be safe than sorry, some people go as far as to swear off fragranced skincare products altogether. But I have to wonder, is that really necessary? Keep reading to find out, straight from a leading dermatologist. 

What Does "Fragrance" Actually Mean on an Ingredient Label?

What many people might not know is that "fragrance" is a vague and nebulous term. It doesn't refer to a specific ingredient. Instead, it refers to a variety of cosmetic ingredients that might make up the scent of a product. So, basically, it's more of a category than an actual ingredient. 

Take it from Chris Tomassian, MD, Chief Dermatology Resident, and leading authority on DermTok. "Many times, it just states 'fragrance' on the ingredient list rather than the individual ingredient. Many products will be labeled as 'unscented,' however, that may still mean there are masking fragrances in the product which you can be allergic to." That's why he recommends looking for the term "fragrance-free” rather than "unscented." 

Is Fragrance Really as Irritating as People Say? 

According to Tomassian, the answer isn't necessarily yes or no. It's that it could be. "Fragrance is a very common culprit when it comes to allergic and irritant skin rashes," he explains. "Fragrances have the potential to stimulate an immune reaction which can result in redness, swelling, blisters, and itching. This is more common in those who have an impaired skin barrier like eczema." 

Oh, and another thing: Many people claim that a fragrance is less irritating if it's natural rather than synthetic. That's simply not the case. No matter if a fragrance is natural or synthetic, Tomassian says it can still cause irritation, and one isn't necessarily any better than the other. 

Natural fragrance includes essential oils, which are included in many skincare products not only for scent purposes but also for other formulation benefits, such as their antimicrobial properties. Even though they're 100% plant-derived, they can still be irritating. It just goes to show that the natural versus synthetic debate is a moot point, at least in regards to fragrance. 

Should I Avoid Fragrance if I Have Sensitive Skin?

So, what's the verdict? Is cutting out all fragrances really the best thing for sensitive skin? Tomassian says that the answer isn't as cut and dry as some people might think. "In general, I would say to exclusively use fragrance-free products if you have sensitive skin," Tomassian says. "However, many people love fragrance and the experience of using products with fragrance."

In other words, it's up to the individual. If the sensorial experience of a fragranced skincare product appeals to you, and leads you to better care for your skin in a consistent way, then go for it. It's also worth noting that just because fragrance generally has a high irritation potential, that doesn't automatically mean every single skincare product that contains fragrance will cause irritation for you. Everyone's skin is unique, as are their skincare routines and preferences. It's not accurate to say fragrance is inherently good or bad. It depends. 

Still, if you have sensitive skin, Tomassian recommends testing fragranced products before jumping right in and applying them to your face. "For those with sensitive skin, I would say always spot test an area before applying it all over. The inner upper arm is a great place to spot test."

There you have it. There's no right answer when it comes to fragrance in skincare, and it all boils down to personal preference. With that being said, some people prefer to steer clear of fragrance in their skincare routines, and that's okay. If you do, keep scrolling to see some of our favorite fragrance-free skincare products to shop, from Who What Wear's sister brand, Versed. 

15 Fragrance-Free Versed Products to Shop Now

Next, this $8 cleansing tool is the zero-effort secret to youthful skin. 

Ask around, and you'll likely find that people spend the majority of their time, money, and focus on the treatment steps in their skincare routine—I'm talking about products like serums and night creams. It makes sense, right? After all, these are the products that contain a potent blend of active ingredients to help correct and prevent signs of aging. But what if I told you that all of those expensive serums and creams are totally wasted if you're not using one other, more important product? That would certainly make you rethink your routine, right? 

Well, that one incredibly important product is (drumroll, please) sunscreen. That's right. If you're not protecting your skin from the damaging effects of UV rays, the rest of your products can't work to the best of their ability, and you won't see long-term improvement in your skin. That's because UV rays do a bunch of nasty things, like accelerate skin aging, damage DNA, degrade collagen, and in the worst case, lead to skin cancer. 

Luckily, there are things we can do to prevent UV rays from causing damage. The main thing is to practice safe sun—namely, avoid direct sun exposure if you can and wear SPF daily. Most derms will tell you that the latter is of the utmost importance, even if it's raining, even if it's winter, and even if you're sitting inside all day. 

If you haven't started wearing SPF daily or you're in a rut with a formula that feels greasy or leaves a white cast, we have good news. There's a formula out there that provides broad-spectrum SPF 35, looks virtually undetectable on the skin, and has antioxidants to protect against free radical damage. The best part is that it comes from the drugstore. Yep, it'll only set you back $22. Keep scrolling to see which sunscreen it is.

Here it is: Versed's Guards Up Daily Mineral Sunscreen with SPF 35. It's a completely mineral sunscreen (as the name suggests), and its main ingredients are non-nano zinc oxide, sea fennel extract, and moringa-seed extract. Let's dive into the benefits of each one, shall we? 

Why it will be your favorite sunscreen:

First, we have non-nano zinc oxide, which is a physical blocker that works on the skin's surface to prevent UVA and UVB rays from penetrating and causing damage. While many physical sunscreens are known for leaving a white cast on the skin, this one won't. That's because it has a peachy hue that looks almost undetectable on the skin (but more on that in a minute). 

Next up, we have sea fennel extract and Moringa seed extract. Both work as emollients to retain moisture in the skin, while also providing potent antioxidant effects to defend against damaging free radicals that can come from the environment and electronic (blue) light. 

By the way, while research is pretty limited, there is evidence that blue light can potentially lead to hyperpigmentation (like melasma and dark spots) and the breakdown of collagen, which causes premature aging. That's why applying daily SPF is so important, even if you won't be spending a lot of time outside. 

The formula is special, but the finish is really where this sunscreen shines. (As countless dermatologists have told us, the best sunscreen you can use is one that you'll actually like using.) This one is suitable for all skin types and has a natural finish that's not too dewy and not too matte. The kicker, though, is its peachy-pink hue.

The reason it has a peachy hue is to counteract the white cast that can happen with mineral sunscreens. It's not tinted, per se; it just blends into the skin like a dream. There's no pilling, excessive shininess, or white cast ever. That's why it works for all skin tones. 

Versed recently increased the size of Guards Up Daily Mineral Sunscreen. It's now 33% larger for the same price. You can expect to get approximately 190 uses. 

10 More Versed Products to Shop 

Next, I use these 18 drugstore products to care for my sensitive, redness-prone skin. 

I feel a little bit like a broken record, but I'm constantly talking about my dehydrated, redness-prone skin. Part of it is that my skin needs a lot of TLC, so when I find products that make it look and feel its best, I want to shout it from the rooftops. The other part is that I'm simply a skincare-obsessed beauty writer and talking about skin is quite literally my job. 

This time, I'm talking about my dehydrated, redness-prone skin for the first reason. Yes, there's a product out there—a moisturizer to be specific—that makes my fussy complexion look calm, clear, and bouncy. I've been using it for a while now, and I continue to be impressed with the results, especially since it only costs $15 and most of my other favorite moisturizers are triple that price, if not more (who doesn't love a budget-friendly product recommendation?). Keep scrolling to see which moisturizer it is and why it's the perfect time to test it out for yourself. 

Here it is—the $15 moisturizer that I can always count on to give my skin a kick of soothing hydration. This little green-and-white tube contains a unique jelly-textured formula that feels light and cooling on my skin—never rich or greasy. 

While I use it all year round, I tend to reach for it more in the spring and summer, which is when my skin needs lightweight moisture. In the winter, when it needs something a little heavier, with more occlusive ingredients, I'll apply this and layer a heavier moisturizer or a face oil over the top. Either way, it gives my skin the water-based moisture it craves without causing excess irritation or congestion. That means I'm dealing with less redness and fewer clogged pores while simultaneously seeing plumper, bouncier skin. It's a total win-win. 

Now, let's get to the ingredients. The three main ones I want to talk about are sodium hyaluronate, aloe leaf juice, and green tea extract. Let's start with the first one, shall we?

Sodium hyaluronate is similar to hyaluronic acid, the powerhouse hydrating ingredient we all know and love. In fact, sodium hyaluronate is simply the sodium form of hyaluronic acid, which means it can just as effectively draw in and retain moisture. It's part of the reason this moisturizer gives my skin a big boost of hydration and makes it look plump and bouncy. 

The next ingredient to go over is aloe leaf juice. Aloe is famous for its hydrating and soothing properties, which is why it's commonly used in products that are formulated specifically for sensitive skin. It's part of the reason why this moisturizer can hydrate and soothe my skin without contributing to clogged pores or extra redness. 

Finally, there's the green-tea extract. This ingredient is included for antioxidant sake. It can help neutralize damaging free radicals that the skin is exposed to from environmental factors like the sun and smog. These antioxidants can also soothe inflammation, which is why this moisturizer actually reduces redness in my skin (and doesn't just prevent it). 

Here's what my skin looks like after two weeks of strictly only using the Dew Point Moisturizing Gel-Cream (normally I'm testing a lot of different moisturizers, but I wanted to give this one priority for a while to prove its hydrating, skin-soothing ability). 

I have a little concealer on under my eyes and around my nose, but other than that, my skin is bare. As you can see, there is minimal redness and irritation and clogged pores are pretty much non-existent. Usually, I'm dealing with a lot more visible redness and congestion in my t-zone.

On 3/21, Versed is celebrating Dew Point Day. Receive one free full-size Dew Point when you place an over-$50 order on Versed's website.

Shop 10 More of My Favorite Versed Products

Next, these sunscreen serums save me time and money (and sun damage). 

Sometimes, keeping my skin in check feels like a full-time job. It's sensitive, it's prone to redness (hello, rosacea), and it's easily irritated. And while I'll never complain about being a beauty writer and getting to test new and exciting skincare products, I will say that it can be a little taxing on the already-delicate state of my skin. 

Luckily, though, after a lot of time and trial and error, I've found a routine that works for me. It's a mix of high and low products that simultaneously soothe irritation (or at the very least don't add to it) and deliver active ingredients, too. And when I say high and low, I mean it. Some of my products cost a pretty penny, but others cost less than dinner and drinks. In fact, some of my most-used products cost less than $25. It's proof that skincare doesn't have to be expensive. Keep scrolling to see 18 under-$25 products I use to care for my sensitive, redness-prone skin. 

My Morning Skincare Routine

The best part about this sunscreen, in my opinion at least, is its slight peachy color. It's not exactly tinted, but it's not white either (no white cast!). It's what makes it blend so seamlessly into my skin, almost providing a slight blurring action while it's at it. I think it's kind of genius. 

My Nighttime Skincare Routine

Extras and Occasional Use Products

Body Skincare Routine

Next, gel-based skincare is the secret to succulent skin—here are 20 of the best formulas. 

I may only be 26 years old, but my eye area doesn't look it. I blame it on three things. The first of which is my regrettable lack of sunscreen throughout most of high school. The second is my insanely near-sighted eyes, which lead me to squint whenever I forget my glasses (which is often). And the third is the enormous and incalculable amount of hours I've spent staring at my computer screen in order to write articles on skincare, hair, and makeup. (No complaints there). 

All of these things have added up over the years, and lo and behold, around age 25, I started noticing pesky fine lines, rough texture, and hyperpigmentation appear around the outer corners of my eyes. While it certainly doesn't keep me up at night, I can admit that'd prefer a smoother and brighter look. That's where eye cream comes in.

I've tested many different formulas throughout my time as a beauty writer. One of my recent favorites is from Versed, which is Who What Wear's sister brand. It's smoothing, hydrating, and plumping, and it's all thanks to its star ingredient: granactive retinoid. Keep scrolling to learn all the reasons why this $18 eye balm has become a mainstay in my nighttime skincare routine. 

The Ingredients

Let's start this ingredient deep dive with the star ingredient: granactive retinoid. It's certainly a mouthful, but it's actually a lot less complicated than it sounds. It's simply a less irritating form of retinol (yes, the very same line and wrinkle-reducing ingredient we know and love). Just like traditional retinol, the retinoid in this formula smooths the texture of the skin to reduce the appearance of crow's feet. 

Black currant seed oil and vitamin E are also included in the formula. Both provide an antioxidant function to protect the delicate eye area from free radicals. (ICYMI, free radicals are molecules that weaken and damage healthy cells.)

The final ingredient I want to call out is shiitake mushroom extract, which is an ingredient that supports and strengthens the skin's moisture barrier. The moisture barrier is what keeps moisture in and irritants out, so it's critical to overall skin health. When it's damaged, it can manifest in things like dryness, irritation, inflammation sensitivity, roughness, and more. 

The Results

I've only been using it regularly for about two weeks now, but I can confidently say that my eye area is smoother, brighter, and more hydrated than it was before. Usually, I see fine lines on the outer corners of my eyes, along with hyperpigmentation (brown spots) from past sun damage. Over these past two weeks, the appearance of both has been minimized. The difference may be subtle to others, but it's significant to me, and I'm looking forward to seeing the results after a couple of months of use. 

There's one other thing I want to mention and that's that I only use this eye balm at night. The creamy, melt-in texture is perfect for nighttime wear, but it doesn't bode well for daytime eye makeup (trust me). Plus, since retinoids can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, it's best to keep them regulated for nighttime use. And on that note, make sure you're using sunscreen during the day! 

10 Other Versed Products I Love

Next, I always get compliments on my skin texture—here are 14 products I swear by.

When it comes to skincare, I have a bad habit of focusing all of my time and attention on my face—not my body. Even though I religiously run through my facial skincare routine every night, using cleanser, toner, serum, and moisturizer, I rarely treat my body with the same TLC. Sure, every so often I'll run a random lotion over my limbs when I feel like they're getting dry, but that's usually the full extent of it. 

I know this is, well, less than ideal. After all, skincare means caring for your skin everywhere. (Did you know 97% of your skin is below your chin?) So I'm consciously trying to change my lackluster bodycare routine, committing to devoting more time and attention to regularly exfoliating and moisturizing from the neck down. Not only that, but I want to treat the skin on my body to the same active ingredients that I treat the skin on my face to. 

That's where a new $18 body lotion comes in. Not only does it moisturize my skin, but it can smooth and firm it, too. It's all thanks to ingredients like squalane, vitamin E, and retinol. Yes, retinol. Keep scrolling to see which body lotion it is and why I'm so excited about it. 

Think of the new body lotion as an extension of the serum. It's just formulated to treat your skin from the neck down. Let's take a look at each of its individual star ingredients, shall we? 

The Ingredients

First up, there's retinol. Just like in the aforementioned serum, this retinol is encapsulated, which means it's able to bypass the skin's surface and go into the skin's lower layers to work effectively with less irritation. For the sake of background, retinol, which is a vitamin A ingredient, increases collagen production and cell turnover, which subsequently offers all kinds of skin benefits including but not limited to the reduction of fine lines and wrinkles, breakouts, and uneven skin tone. It's truly a multipurpose skincare ingredient, and up until now, it's been almost entirely relegated to face products. 

Next up, we have squalane. This is a grade-A occlusive, meaning it helps the skin retain moisture. Since our skin's hydration levels naturally decrease with age, using a product that contains squalane can keep our skin happy, healthy, and hydrated (and isn't that exactly what we want from a body lotion?).

After squalane, we need to talk about vitamin E. This is a powerful antioxidant, which means it keeps damaging free radicals at bay. It's also a skin-smoothing ingredient—it makes skin feel soft to the touch. 

The fourth and final star ingredient is cocoa butter, which is a rich emollient that moisturizes and nourishes super-dry skin. (Seriously, it can totally transform even the driest, most chapped skin.) It's full of fatty acids and antioxidants. 

The Experience

One more thing—because it contains retinol, I was slightly concerned about it irritating the sensitive razor burn–prone skin on my legs. However, even when I applied it to freshly shaved skin, there was no stinging, burning, or redness, just soft and moisturized skin. 

If you're like me, you're picky when it comes to body lotion. While I love thick and greasy body oils, thick and greasy body lotions, not so much. There's just something about a thick, chalky cream that I can't stand. This lotion is not that. It's easy to massage over the skin, and it absorbs within minutes. Even when I apply it on damp skin, it doesn't leave a residue or feel like a film on my skin. 

10 Other Versed Products We Love

Next, who knew rose-hip oil was so incredible for your skin? 

We’ve officially reached that part of the year when the days all start to blend together, and "plans” include scrolling between Netflix and HBO Max to see which one has something new to watch. But even if you don’t want to leave your home, there’s something productive you can do: a face mask. And if you’re anything like me, you’re reaching for a deeply moisturizing one that restores skin from the winter chill, late nights, and maybe one too many holiday cocktails. 

No matter the reason, there’s no time like the present to kick back, relax, and give yourself an at-home "facial” with one of these nourishing formulas. It’s a fun activity to do with your mom, sister, or anyone who could use a little pampering—plus, it’s a great way to get your skin in tip-top shape for New Year’s Eve. From sheet masks to overnight treatments, here are the 22 hydrating face masks worth treating your skin to right now.

Up next: These 20 Retinol Creams Can Minimize Acne and Wrinkles in One Fell Swoop

There are some combinations so good and so classic that they speak for themselves—things like vitamin C and sunscreen, wine and cheese, and Meg Ryan and Tom Hanks. Other combinations, while just as prominent, aren't as alluring. Take, for instance, dullness and dark spots. Why these two skin concerns often go hand-in-hand I don't know, but it's true where you see one, you usually see the other.

The good news is that there are plenty of products out there that are formulated to tackle dullness and dark spots. The bad news is that many of them cost more than some of us would like to spend. That's where Versed comes in. The budget-friendly skincare brand recently partnered with a dermatologist to release a specially curated bundle of products. These products were designed to target both dullness and dark spots. The best part? The entire bundle costs less than one luxury serum. Keep scrolling to shop the bundle and learn how each product can brighten and even your skin tone (but really). 

The Dullness and Dark Spot–Busting Bundle

The Individual Products

Each tube contains a potent blend of tranexamic acid, kojic acid, licorice root, and niacinamide. The first is a derm favorite for treating hyperpigmentation (and melasma, to be specific). The second "helps with dark spots by inhibiting an enzyme necessary to create more pigment," Tomassian says. Finally, niacinamide "blocks pigment transfer and has been shown to improve skin radiance, wrinkles, and regulate oil production." 

While it's certainly a rich moisturizing cream, it's not a greasy moisturizing cream, so oily skin types can still use it, albeit they may prefer to use it as a night cream or a winter moisturizer.

All you have to do to reap the resurfacing benefits is apply it weekly for three minutes. Easy. 

While the UV protection is certainly the best (and main) prerogative of this SPF, we love its peachy hue, which was consciously created to counteract the white cast traditionally common with physical blockers. We find that it adds a nice blurring action.

8 Other Versed Products We Love

Next, splurgy skincare products that are actually worth buying.

Look, I get it: The phrase "skincare-infused makeup" elicits an immediate eye roll, especially among the editor set. I mean, in what world am I using a hyaluronic acid–infused foundation in place of my beloved HA serum? What is vitamin C *really* doing in my highlighter? The answer is not much—at least not until recently. It's 2025, and the skincare and makeup categories are fusing into one with formulas that boast stellar finishes and supercharged ingredient lists.

As such, we've seen an uptick in skincare-first brands betting on color cosmetics: Glow Recipe, Rhode, Versed, and Cocokind have all debuted makeup staples with good-for-skin formulas that don't skimp on performance. And the consumer response has been wild. Need I remind you of the absolute pandemonium following the launch of Rhode's Pocket Blush or Glow Recipe's Rosy Glow Hue Drops? (The latter was a limited-edition exclusive for TikTok Shop but quickly earned a permanent spot in the lineup given its success.) "Today’s beauty consumers are incredibly intentional—they’re looking for formulas that enhance their natural features while actively improving their skin. The days of choosing between a beautiful finish and real skincare benefits are over—people want both. That’s why hybrid formulas are thriving," says Priscilla Tsai, founder of Cocokind—which recently added a glossy lip tint to its skincare offerings.

Even celebrity makeup artist Isamaya Ffrench, well-known for fashioning bold, avant-garde beauty looks, decided to center on functionality for her own Core Collection. "I’ve often felt like wearing makeup undoes all of the many immersive hours we spend on our skin, from expensive creams to futuristic treatments. One wrong makeup texture can wreak full-blown havoc in the form of congestion, acne, irritation and all sorts," she tells WWW. "Makeup with a focus on skin health felt like the thing I’ve been waiting for and just what the faces of today need!"

My own face certainly enjoys the emphasis on skin-loving formulas. More often than not, I'll slap on a full face of skincare-makeup hybrids and walk right out the door looking like a dew drop. These 12 products below have earned me the most "You look so glowy" compliments, so I'm officially crowning them the crème de la crème.

The Best Skincare-Makeup Hybrids at a Glance

• Best Primer: Isamaya Microbial Gel
• Best Lip Tint: Cocokind Ceramide Lip Blur Balm
• Best Blush: Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Dewy Flush
• Best Tinted Moisturizer: U Beauty The Super Tinted Hydrator
• Best Bronzing Drops: True Botanicals Bronze Well Regenerative Glow

The Best Skincare-Makeup Hybrids of 2025

Best Primer: Isamaya Microbial Gel

Best Color Corrector: Hero Cosmetics Rescue Balm +Red Correct

Best Bronzing Drops: True Botanicals Bronze Well Regenerative Glow

Best Foundation: Ciele Tint & Protect SPF 50

Best Lip Tint: Cocokind Ceramide Lip Blur Balm

Best Lip Balm: Augustinus Bader The Tinted Balm

Best Blush: Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Dewy Flush

Best Eye Shadow: Versed Sheer Stay Liquid Eyeshadow

Best Powder: Laneige Neo Blurring Powder

Best Lip Liner: Rhode Peptide Lip Shape

Best Highlighter: Westman Atelier Liquid Super Loaded All-Over Illuminator Drops

Best Tinted Moisturizer: U Beauty The Super Tinted Hydrator

What is a skincare-makeup hybrid?

Skincare-makeup hybrids are essentially products that boast makeup-focused elements (such as coverage, tints, shimmer, etc.) and powerful skincare-level actives (niacinamide, vitamin C, peptides, etc.). Think tinted moisturizers, emphasis on moisturizers; blush serums that actually have serum-like concentrations of actives; lip tints with line-smoothing benefits… You get the idea. If you've ever stumbled across a beauty product and thought, "Is this meant to be skincare or makeup?" you've likely got a hybrid on your hands.

And yes, it is true that most makeup products on the market right now include some sort of hydrating and/or brightening ingredient. The makeup category grows more sophisticated every single day with formulas that dress your lips, eyes, cheeks, etc., in stunning hues without sacrificing all your skincare goals. That said, a true skincare-makeup hybrid will include highly concentrated versions of those actives, oftentimes with clinicals to back up their skin-improving claims. As Tsai said up top, "The days of choosing between a beautiful finish and real skincare benefits are over—people want both." They also tend to lean more on the natural side when it comes to color payoff; if you're hoping for just a wash of pigment on no-makeup days, these double-duty formulas are your best bet.

Does skincare in makeup actually work?

Now, am I recommending you toss your vitamin C serum in favor of a vitamin C–infused bronzer? Absolutely not. While skincare-makeup hybrids do contain a high concentration of actives, they shouldn't replace a dedicated skincare routine. Think of them as add-ons with extra perks. If you struggle with fine lines, a complexion product brimming with peptides and hyaluronic acid can coddle your moisture barrier for long-term skin health and even temporarily plump your skin day-of. Or let's say you're dealing with hyperpigmentation; layering an antioxidant-spiked foundation or blush on top of your serums and creams can help move the needle—and deliver a stunning glow while they're at it.

Unless you have perfect skin that remains calm, clear, and collected all year round (which, if you do, I'm jealous of), then it's pretty likely your skincare routine shifts with the seasons. It's only natural. After all, most of us have different skin concerns in the summer than we do in the winter and vice versa. 

In fact, long before the first leaf falls or the first holiday wish list is written, we can feel our skin changing. For some of us, that means dryness and flakiness become a problem. For others, that means more breakouts are popping up than usual. Whatever the issue, we know that all it takes to remedy it is a slight tweak or substitution to our standard skincare routines. 

This year, we're turning to Who What Wear's sister brand, Versed, to transition our skincare routines to winter. From gentle exfoliators that banish dullness to skin-quenching moisturizers and beyond, keep scrolling to see all of the under-$25 products we're shopping now.

Next, the 7 most-wanted face creams and their drugstore dupes. 

A decade ago, the skincare brand Peter Thomas Roth released an eye product called the Instant Firmx Eye Temporary Eye Tightener. Described as a "quick fix eye treatment,” it basically promises to do it all—depuff, minimize crow’s-feet and wrinkles, and firm the under-eye area—if only temporarily.

Fast-forward to this summer, and Trinidad Sandoval, aka TikTok user @trinidad1967, turned the $38 product into a sensation. In the video, which now has over 30 million views, she explains how weight loss surgery gave her exaggerated eye bags and says this is the one product that helps. She applies a bit of the eye tightener underneath one eye, and poof, the results are visible—and near-instantaneous. Cue a skincare TikTok obsession, with fans including @tinx showing off their results. Naturally, the 10-year-old product has been all but impossible to get your hands on since.

But good news: If you act fast, you can catch it right this second. And if by the time you read this it’s too late, don’t worry: I’m sharing some other amazing products that will help nix puffiness and under-eye circles in no time. 

More Products to Try for Eye Puffiness

Up next: Find out if Augustinus Bader's new serum can eclipse its iconic cream.

Whichever way you refer to dark spots—discoloration, hyperpigmentation, or an uneven skin tone—you know how stubborn they can be when it comes to trying to fade them. That's because discoloration can be caused by so many different things, including genetics, sun exposure, hormonal changes, and acne (so, identifying the culprit can feel nearly impossible). You also have to take into account that the pigment forms deep within the skin, so the correction process is rarely quick or easy. All things considered, it's not surprising that many of us deal with varying degrees of discoloration for years, only to see minimal improvement. That's the bad news.

Despite how I might have just made it sound, the good news is that it is possible to fade dark spots (my now nonexistent post-breakout marks are proof of that). You just have to know which products to use. That's where Versed comes in. The budget-friendly skincare brand just launched a new dark spot-correcting product that promises to make a visible difference in the appearance of discoloration through a combination of several safe-for-skin ingredients. Keep scrolling to learn all about it and read real, first-person reviews. 

The Ingredients

First up, there's tranexamic acid. It's an antioxidant, which means it fights damaging free radicals. It's known for its ability to treat discoloration and slow the transfer of pigment, which is why it's commonly used to treat melasma (a specific form of hyperpigmentation). This is an ingredient that's safe for use on all skin tones, fading dark spots without any adverse effects. 

Next up, there's kojic acid, which is a dark spot-correcting ingredient that's derived from mushrooms. It offers antioxidant benefits, along with exfoliating benefits. It effectively blocks melanin production and brightens the appearance of the skin. 

The third stand-out ingredient is niacinamide, which is also known as vitamin B3. It's a do-it-all skincare ingredient that can address discrepancies in skin tone (aka fade dark spots), soothe and heal by offering anti-inflammatory benefits, and strengthen the skin's barrier by encouraging the production of ceramides. Read more about this popular skincare marvel, here. 

Licorice root is the fourth and final of the star ingredients found in this dark spot-fading gel. It's a natural lightening agent that also does its part to defend against environmental aggressors. 

How to use it: To harness the benefits of all these ingredients, the brand recommends applying a thin layer of the gel to clean, dry skin both morning and night after cleansing. Let it sit for two to three minutes, and then apply your next skincare product. Just be sure to only use it on dark spots or other areas of discoloration. 

The First-Person Reviews

Although I have quite a few freckles/sunspots leftover from my irresponsible adolescent days when I would bask in the summer sun without sunscreen (I still cringe when I think about it), it's my post-breakout marks that bug me. I've had some success fading them through the use of vitamin C serums and routine exfoliation, but they're still there, and they still bother me. 

So, that's what I decided to target with this product. I tested it for two weeks. Each night, after cleansing, I applied a small dot of the clear gel to each post-breakout mark on my skin. I would wait for the gel to dry down a bit, and then I would follow up with my serum and moisturizer. Even though it's only been two weeks, I can see an improvement in the appearance of each mark. They're faded to the point where my concealer has to work a little less hard than it usually does to cover them up. I imagine the results will be even better after more time passes, which is why I'm going to keep this handy green tube on my bathroom vanity.

"I've struggled with maskne over the last year and have sadly been left with acne scars. This was a great addition to my morning skincare routine because it helps me continue to get rid of the leftover dark spots. Plus, I love that the product is also easy to travel with."—Kira West, wellness expert and digital creator

"This is probably the most effective spot treatment I’ve ever used! I've had this very stubborn dark spot on my cheek for the longest time and it would just not go away, but when I started treating it with Out of Sight Dark Spot Treatment, it has become significantly lighter! Consistency is key with this product and with only a few nights of using it, I saw great improvement on my trouble area. It’s pretty gentle for how powerful it is against dark spots. I highly recommend it!"—Corinth Suarez, lifestyle blogger and digital creator

"I love finding effective products to help lighten my dark spots, the new Dark Spot treatment gel contains kojic acid and tranexamic acid, ingredients that work together to inhibit tyrosinase synthesis (the melanin-producing process) thereby clearing up my skin, to reveal brighter skin. I started using this product on the dark spots on my chest, and I have seen a huge improvement."—April Basi, skincare chemist

"I have oily skin that is also acne-prone! With my stubborn hormonal breakouts, my skin concerns are dark spots and hyperpigmentation. So when I’m looking for a product to treat my skin the first thing I look for are ingredients that will help aid my dark spots.

"When I first started using the Out of Sight Dark Spot Gel- I was amazed at how much of a difference I was able to see in my dark spots fading. I use the product each night. I never skip a beat! Consistency always wins. The texture feels like a serum and is not sticky at all, and pairs well with my other skincare products.

I love that one of the key ingredients is niacinamide which protects the skin, treats acne, and improves the skin's texture. My skin loves niacinamide! I am so happy I have added this product to my skincare regimen!"—Ivy Brockington, digital creator

"My biggest skin concern right now is definitely dark spots from acne scarring so I was super excited to see that Versed was launching the Out of Sight Dark Spot Treatment! I actually received this right after I got a pimple so I was able to start testing it out right after the pimple went down. It’s been around three weeks of using the treatment every day and the dark spot where the pimple was is pretty much completely gone. It has kojic and tranexamic acid, a gel-like texture, and is gentle on the skin! Definitely a new staple in my skincare routine!"—Taylor Ussher, digital creator

More Brightening Versed Products to Shop

Next, read up on 10 skincare ingredients that actually treat acne. 

No matter the type or severity, all acne has one thing in common: it can be stubborn—like really stubborn. As so many acne-sufferers already know, it often takes trial and error to address entirely, and the products, treatments, and routines that worked for one person might not work the same for you (it's annoying, but it's the truth). Don't get us wrong, though—that doesn't mean there aren't steps you can take and ingredients you can use to minimize your acne. On the contrary, there are a whole host of effective acne-fighting ingredients you can turn to. 

You just have to know which ingredients they are, how they work, and how best to use them. That's what we're here for. Keep scrolling to see 10 skincare ingredients that actually treat acne. Consider this your great big guide. We've even included budget-friendly product recommendations from one of our favorite drugstore brands, Versed Skincare, for each one. 

PS: From August 12 through August 15, Versed is offering 20% select products.

Acne-Fighting Ingredient #1: Salicylic Acid

Salicylic acid belongs in the acne-fighting hall of fame, as it has a long history of being used topically to fight breakouts. Here's what you need to know: It's a BHA (aka beta-hydroxy acid) that exfoliates in the same way as AHAs (aka alpha-hydroxy acids). That being said, it's even more effective for treating acne due to its chemical makeup. Take it from board-certified dermatologist Geeta Yadav: "Because salicylic acid is oil-soluble, it can penetrate the skin at a deeper level and unclog pores of all the dirt, debris, and irritants that can cause acne—particularly blackheads and whiteheads." 

Although Yadav says salicylic acid is great for unclogging pores and promoting exfoliation, she cautions that it can be drying and irritating. Translation? Go easy and don't overuse it. 

Acne-Fighting Ingredient #2: Benzoyl Peroxide 

Benzoyl peroxide is another acne-fighting mainstay ingredient that's been used for decades. It differs from salicylic acid in that it doesn't exfoliate the skin. Instead, it provides powerful antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. In fact, it directly targets the bacteria that cause acne to erupt in the first place: P. acnes bacteria (learn more about the difference between benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid here). 

Acne-Fighting Ingredient #3: Retinol 

If there's one ingredient dermatologists, estheticians, and editors talk about most, it's probably retinol. It only makes sense, as this buzzy ingredient does a little bit of everything. "Retinol is a form of vitamin A and type of retinoid that is available over the counter," Dr. Yadav says. "While probably most known for increasing collagen, decreasing fine lines, and improving skin’s texture, it is also a wonderful ingredient for preventing acne. Retinol helps to unclog pores and promotes healing via skin cell turnover, a dynamic duo when it comes to targeting a source of breakouts." 

Acne-Fighting Ingredient #4: Bakuchiol

You may have heard people refer to bakuchiol as a natural alternative to retinol. According to Yadav, there's some truth to that. "While retinol and retinoids are wonderful ingredients, they can be very drying and/or irritating for some, particularly those with already sensitive skin. Bakuchiol is a gentler, more soothing, plant-based alternative to retinol that has a long history in the world of Ayurvedic medicine. Like retinol, bakuchiol helps to unclog pores and fight breakouts, but it also has anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial attributes that help to prevent acne from occurring in the first place." 

It's also found in Versed's Press Restart Gentle Retinol Serum ($22). The bakuchiol used is CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora) certified, meaning its use doesn't negatively impact this precious plant species' survival.

Acne-Fighting Ingredient #5: Tea Tree Oil

Not only does tea tree oil provide a refreshing, herbal scent to most products it's included in, but it also has some serious acne-fighting powers. "Tea tree oil is an essential oil that comes from the leaves of the Melaleuca tree and has been used as traditional medicine for centuries," Yadav says. "Known for its healing powers, tea tree oil has bacteria-fighting properties that make it ideal for relieving and preventing acne." 

Acne-Fighting Ingredient #6: Witch Hazel

"Witch Hazel is a topical astringent made from the leaves and bark of the Hamamelis Virginiana shrub," Yadav explains. "In addition to drying and oil-zapping effects, witch hazel contains several compounds and antioxidants with anti-inflammatory and bacteria-killing properties—all keys to relieving acne." 

Acne-Fighting Ingredient #7: Niacinamide

Another wonder ingredient, niacinamide is lauded for its brightening, pore-minimizing, elasticity-boosting, and calming powers. "Also known as nicotinamide, niacinamide is a form of vitamin B-3 and has been a popular ingredient in dermatology offices for many years," Yadav says. "It contains anti-inflammatory properties and decreases oil production in a gentle, non-irritating way, making it ideal for those with acne and sensitive skin."

Acne-Fighting Ingredient #8: Zinc

Zinc might not be as buzzy as other ingredients on this list, but that doesn't mean you should overlook it. Take it from Yadav. "Zinc is a mineral and an essential nutrient that everybody needs. Widely known for its cold-fighting abilities, zinc is also a great treatment for mild acne. Available in both topical and ingestible forms, zinc is anti-inflammatory, reduces oil production, and can aid in killing breakout-causing bacteria. I recommend oral zinc for my patients with an acne-like condition called hidradenitis suppurativa where acne appears in the folds of the skin."

Acne-Fighting Ingredient #9: Sulfur

According to Yadav, sulfur is "a natural chemical element that is common in rocks and minerals, as well as in our own bodies!" Perhaps most known for its rotten-egg stench, it also happens to be a great skincare ingredient for those with mild-to-moderate breakouts of either acne or rosacea. Sulfur has a keratolytic effect (softens/thins skin), which helps to exfoliate and remove dead skin cells, fight bacteria, and reduce sebum." 

Acne-Fighting Ingredient #10: Clay

Here's the thing: There is actually more than one type of clay. The first one we're going to talk about is kaolin clay. "Kaolin is a soft, white clay that, in addition to skincare, has been used in China to create porcelain products for centuries," Yadav explains. "Typically, in a mask format, kaolin helps to absorb excess oil and sebum, while also managing moisture levels, making it very gentle and suitable for even sensitive skin types." 

The other type of clay we're going to talk about is bentonite clay. "Another very old clay, bentonite forms when volcanic ash ages and contains many other important trace minerals, such as calcium, iron, zinc, and copper," Yadav says. "Available in powders or masks, bentonite is known for healing infections and acne and absorbs dirt and oil." 

Next, eight foolproof ways to ensure your skin reaches maximum potential this fall. 

How do you take your coffee? It’s a question most of us can easily answer in cafés, but now it applies to your beauty routine, too. While coffee might be an integral part of your morning, it’s not usually considered a skincare ingredient. But lately, you might have noticed coffee grounds, oil, or extract on the ingredient labels of many skincare products. 

One key reason why coffee keeps popping up in skincare products is caffeine. "Caffeine is a wonderful ingredient in skincare products because it is a vasoconstrictor. That means that it constricts blood vessels, or makes them smaller,” explains Purvisha Patel, MD, board-certified dermatologist and founder of Visha Skincare. Coffee is also secretly packed with good stuff for skin. "Coffeeberry extract is high in flavonoids and carotenoids and can help protect your skin from free radicals. It helps protect your skin from sunlight and photodamage,” says Dr. Patel, and adds that "coffee by itself has antioxidant properties as well.”

In an effort to use environmentally responsible production methods, some skincare brands are also repurposing used coffee grounds that would otherwise end up in landfills. UK-based skincare brand UpCircle Beauty works with London coffee shops to source its grounds. "In the UK, we send 500,000 tons of coffee waste to landfills per year, so there’s plenty for us to try to intercept before that happens,” says the brand’s co-founder, Anna Brightman. "Every day we’re contacted by coffee shops all over the country asking if we can collect their grounds.” And the brewing process may actually make the post-consumer grounds more potent, not less so. "The research has shown that antioxidant levels in used coffee grounds are actually higher than in freshly-ground coffee,” says Brightman.

We also have an emotional connection to coffee (seriously). When former fashion editor Sophia Chabbott was developing the hero products for her newly launched skincare brand, Testament Beauty, she looked to her grandmother for inspiration. "One of the things Grandma Frieda was known for was her Turkish coffee,” says Chabbott. "When I was a kid, we’d go to her house and pick grape leaves in her backyard garden, which we’d then roll in the kitchen. After that, my mom, my grandmother, my sister and I would sit with her while the adults had their Turkish coffee.” The memory is so close to Chabbott that it became part of her brand’s ethos. "The Turkish Coffee 3-in-1 Mask is a testament to her,” she says. 

Intrigued? Keep reading below for more coffee-infused skincare products that you’ll love just as much as your daily cup of joe.

UpCircle Eye Cream With Maple and Coffee

Testament Beauty Turkish Coffee 3-in-1 Mask

Versed Recovery Mode Advanced Night Cream

Paula's Choice Resist Skin Restoring Moisturizer SPF 50

Náu Anti-Fatigue Face Cream

100% Pure Organic Coffee Bean Caffeine Eye Cream

Frank Body Caffeinated Face Moisturiser

Acaderma Better With Age Rejuvenating Rich Cream

Kopari Starry Eye Balm

Dermalogica Phyto-Nature Firming Serum

Itadi Face Wash

Naturopathica Espresso Mud Body Scrub

The Body Shop Ethiopian Green Coffee Cream

Up next, these are the best body creams to firm and tighten, according to reviews. 

In the beauty industry, there's no shortage of products across the makeup and skincare categories that promise to give you glowing skin. As a beauty writer, I've tried the vast majority of them—from dewy foundations, highlighters, and self-tanners to cleansers, serums, exfoliators, and beyond. Throughout my years of testing these glow-giving products, I've learned something. That is, I want the instant gratification I get from makeup products, and I also want long-term benefits from skincare products (in other words, I want to have my cake and eat it, too). That's why I gravitate towards products that combine skincare and makeup elements into a single hybrid formula. 

I keep a variety of these hybrid products in my beauty collection, and each one is noteworthy. However, I have to admit that I'm most excited about the newest addition. It's an innovative product that's one part serum, one part highlighter, and one part mixing medium. Since it doesn't sit squarely in a single category, it's incredibly versatile (I use it in 3 different ways). I've only been using it for a couple of weeks, but I'm officially hooked, thanks to the effortless glow it creates. Keep scrolling to read my full review.  

The second star ingredient is blackberry extract, which is an enzyme that provides antioxidant protection along with gentle exfoliation. Both the polyglutamic acid and blackberry extract work in tandem in this liquid formula to offer long-term skin benefits, which is why, at first glance, this product could be considered something of a serum. 

However, when you take into account the superfine, light-reflecting pigments it contains, it could also be considered an illuminating skin tint. You can also use it on top of your normal skincare products on the high points of your face, which means it could also be considered a traditional highlighter. But then there's the fact that you can mix it into your moisturizer or foundation, so it's kind of an illuminating mixing medium, too. Like I said before, it doesn't sit squarely in any single category. 

Method #1: Smooth All Over Skin as an Illuminating Skin Tint

My daily makeup aesthetic is minimal, and I love a good no-makeup makeup look. So, the first way I decided to use this product was as a sheer, illuminating skin tint. I started with my standard skincare routine—cleanser, toner, serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen—then dispensed about 3 drops of the Sheer Golden shade into my palms and smoothed it all over my skin (I followed up with a few quick dabs of a damp beauty sponge to ensure it was blended evenly). 

The result was a super natural-looking radiance. Sure, you could still see redness and hyperpigmentation poking through, but I didn't expect it (or even want it) to cover that up. It was more about blurring the look of my skin and adding a subtle illumination.

Method #2: Apply to the High Points of the Face as Highlighter

The next day, I decided to use it as I would a traditional highlighter. I applied my makeup as I would normally, which involves the pretty minimalist use of concealer, some bronzer, and mascara, and applied the product to the high points of my face. I concentrated on my cheekbones since that's where I wanted the majority of the glow, but I also added a dab to the bridge and the tip of my nose, my cupid's bow, and even a bit in the inner corners of my eyes. I went over those areas with a damp beauty sponge to make sure it was all blended in.

Again, I was happy with the subtly radiant result. I thought my skin looked healthy and dewy, and I didn't see streaks of blinding highlighter on my skin like I do when I use some powder formulas (I don't know about you, but I'm over the intense highlighter trend of yesteryear). My skin looked even better when I ventured out into the sun, as the light reflected off the golden pigment particles nicely. 

Method #3: Mix It Into Foundation Makeup

The third and final way I used the glow drops was by mixing them into my foundation before applying them all over my skin with a damp beauty sponge. This time, instead of just using the Sheer Golden shade, I used the Sheer Bronze shade, too. I simply dispensed a pump of my foundation on the back of my hand, then added a drop of each shade into it, before mixing it up and dabbing it on my skin. 

I think this was my favorite way to use the product since the coverage from the foundation and the glow from the drops worked in tandem to smooth and illuminate my complexion. A touch of mascara and a swipe of lip balm was all I added before heading out the door and getting on with my day. It was a minimal makeup success. 

10 Other Glow-Giving Versed Products to Try

Next, see the best drugstore skincare products, according to dermatologists. 

It's a serum! It's a skin tint! It's actually skincare with makeup benefits. If you're confused by what I'm talking about, let me introduce you to my skin's new best friend: It's sheer, buildable, and mixable; has just the right amount of sheen; and feeds my skin very well. And, like any true BFF would, it also makes me want to try new things that I never would have considered a few years ago, like ditch my makeup entirely. Its name? Mood Lighting Luminizing Glow Drops ($18) from none other than Versed.

This stuff is no joke. A few drops deliver that lit-from-within glow everyone wants come summer, but without big pieces of glitter or heavy shimmer that often make products look and feel too juvenile. It comes in two shades, Sheer Bronzed and Sheer Golden, both of which subtly illuminate skin while delivering a serious boost of antioxidants and hydration.

And when I say serious, I mean it—it's formulated with hyaluronic acid's more powerful relative, polyglutamic acid, which holds 4000 times more moisture than its own molecular weight. Not to mention it has blackberry extract, which is full of antioxidants that neutralize free radicals and defend against damage. (Side note: This ingredient gently exfoliates and leaves skin so smooth, too!) But arguably the best part is that over time, with regular use, these ingredients increase your skin's own natural moisturization factor, which improves surface hydration and maintains elasticity. I've only been using Luminizing Glow Drops for a few weeks now, but the shade Sheer Golden has quickly become a staple in my routine. Before I get into both shades, below is a picture of my skin without anything else on so you can really see how the soft-focus, light-reflecting pigments give skin a natural, radiant glow. 

As I mentioned above, Sheer Golden has really stolen my heart. The shade just feels really natural to me, and it soaks right into my skin and leaves it looking super glowy. You can use it a couple ways: as a makeup primer (it creates a silky-smooth canvas) or as the last step in your skincare routine. Below, you can see me wearing it on its own and with makeup. It's a subtle difference, but it was enough to make a few friends ask what I had been doing differently with my skin.

I wouldn't say I'm not a fan of Sheer Bronzed, because I totally am. Just look at the color: not a hint of orange, and when the light hits it, there are soft coppery undertones that I just love. But as you can see in my pictures, it makes me look much tanner than I am. Mixing it with my makeup helped lighten the color a bit, but it still felt a little too much. Even so, the sheer, smoothing finish made it so none of the product settled into any of my lines or texture, which I was worried about. I like the idea of having this on hand for when I do go on a beach vacation and get some more color, or perhaps for adding a drop to counteract the white cast of my hardcore sports sunscreen on a bare-faced day. 

All in all, I'm a huge fan. As much as I love beauty products, I also love cutting down my routine, especially in the summer, and these magical drops help me do just that. 

Shop More Favorites From Versed 

With the start of the Fourth of July weekend, summer is *officially* officially here. Along with fireworks, cookouts, and over-the-top red, white, and blue 'fits, this weekend's major beauty sales add to the celebratory season. 

Whether you're going all out on all things Americana for Independence Day (think patriotic nail art, fun flag motifs, and a slice of apple pie), or prefer a more lowkey long weekend relaxing in the shade with a good book, cute hat, and your favorite streak-free sunscreen, we've got you covered. The below sales from Sephora, Dermstore, Skinstore, LookFantastic, Versed, NuFace, and Ulta promise 20%–50% off year-round favorites between now and Monday. 

Keep scrolling to get the details (and codes) for each retailer, and prepare to enjoy the long weekend ahead.

Dermstore

Save up to 30% on sale items + get an extra 10% off until July 5 with code EXTRA10!

Sephora

Get 50% off select must-have beauty items through July 5.

Ulta

Shop the summer sale at Ulta Beauty and get up to 50% off of your favorite brands through July 4.

Versed

Score 20% off of select treatments between July 1 and July 4. 

Skinstore

Enjoy 25% off your purchase through July 5 with code JULY4.

Lookfantastic

Shop and save up to 50% off sitewide until July 5.

Nuface

Score 25% off sitewide through July 4 with code SAVE25.

Up Next: 30 Beyond-Easy Hairstyles That Are Perfect for Summer

Who What Wear editors are constantly testing new trends, clothing items, and beauty products (there’s a lot out there in the fashion and beauty spaces, which means there’s also a lot to sort through). So, when something rises above the noise and hits its mark with all of us, that's a big deal. That's what happened when we tried our favorite Versed products. From an exfoliating scrub that makes us skip our microdermabrasion habit to a cleanser that gave us baby-soft skin in two minutes flat, we have a lot of products to talk (and rave) about. 

That's why we decided that we would each share our holy-grail Versed products—the ones we reach for before all others. (At the very least, we figured that this would give us an outlet to express all of our pent-up admiration.) Keep scrolling to meet 12 Who What Wear editors and their favorite Versed products of all time.

Drew Elovitz, Director of Content Strategy & Senior Managing Editor 

Caitie Schlisserman, Managing Editor, Branded Content

Nicole Akhtarzad Eshaghpour, Senior Market Editor

Kristen Nichols, Senior Editor

Allyson Payer, Senior Editor

Sarah Yang, Managing Editor, THE/THIRTY

Kat Collings, Editor in Chief

Michaela Bushkin, Senior Fashion Editor, Branded Content

Erin Jahns, Senior Beauty Editor

Kaitlyn McLintock, Freelance Beauty Writer

Anna LaPlaca, Associate Editor

Natalie Cantell, Senior Director, Branded Content

Next, 5 beauty products I used to think were pointless that are now essentials. 

The beauty industry is full of buzzwords with vague—if not completely incomprehensible—meanings. "Clean," "green," and "sustainable" are perhaps the most infamous of them all. They're plastered across websites, bottles, and boxes, but many of us remain unclear on what they actually mean. Are these products really better for our bodies? Are they really better for the environment? How can we ensure that our beauty routines are being kind to the planet? 

These are complex questions that aren't easily answered from a simple Google search. In fact, type in "clean beauty" in the search engine and you'll be met with over one billion search results. (That's billion with a B.) Type in "green beauty," and you'll be met with over five billion search results. That's why we reached out to the experts—the green beauty experts, that is—to gain insight.

Meet Suzanne LeRoux, green beauty expert and founder of One Love Organics, and Vicki Engsall, green beauty expert and founder of The Jojoba Company. We asked them to shed light on some of the most common beauty buzzwords and share some simple ways to ensure our routines are as eco-friendly as possible. Keep scrolling to read what they had to say. 

What Does "Clean" Really Mean?

 Many people consider the word "clean" to be synonymous with "healthy," whether that's healthy for themselves, the planet, or both. In all actuality, though, the word "clean" doesn't really mean much at all. That's because it's not a regulated term, so companies can use it regardless of their ingredients. "Clean is a very loose term used in the beauty industry, which is not regulated at this stage," Engsall explains. "There really is no clear definition." 

Because it's not regulated, and there is no agreed-upon definition, it's up to individual companies to decide what "clean" means to them. "We at The Jojoba Company believe it to mean products that are carefully created and produced without any toxic ingredients or harmful chemicals," Engsall continues. "The ingredients used are ethically sourced and made with the health of the body and the environment in mind." 

"To me, the term 'clean beauty' means prioritizing the use of natural, organic, non-GMO, and sustainable ingredients that nourish and benefit the skin," LeRoux says. "Clean beauty products also consider the safety of the final product, the sustainability and recyclability of packaging, and the elimination of the use of known no-no's, like sulfates, parabens, and petrochemicals. And, of course, clean beauty should always be cruelty-free from ingredients to final formulation." 

Okay, so clean beauty isn't regulated, but green beauty must be, right? Wrong. As it turns out, the word "green" isn't regulated either, which explains why it's so difficult to pin down a single definition. It's also the reason certain brands have been accused of "greenwashing" in the past. This is when a company deceptively markets itself as eco-friendly when it's not. While certainly up for interpretation, Engsall says that "green" generally "indicates that the ingredients in a product are organic or natural and that the process of manufacturing and sourcing of ingredients involves using sustainable and renewable resources." 

"The terms 'clean' and 'green' really mean the same thing to me, but in the industry, it might mean that 'clean beauty' has more of an emphasis on the lack of certain harmful ingredients and 'green beauty' has more of an emphasis on prioritizing sustainability in both ingredients and packaging," LeRoux says.

What About the Word "Sustainable?"

Depending on who you ask, "clean," "green," and "sustainable" can overlap a little or a lot. While there are varying standards for what constitutes sustainable beauty, Engsall says her definition is as follows. "Having a sustainable brand and product to us means using packaging that is recyclable or even packaging that uses recycled materials or is compostable. It means a decreased use of single-use plastics and a very considered decision as to what ingredients actually go into a product, choosing ingredients that are plentiful and easily regrown, not the result of deforestation and the use of non-renewable resources."

True sustainability, she says, is leaving a very small impact on the planet from start to finish. "Our jojoba grown on our farm is grown in a sustainable way to ensure that the soil is left better than it was when we started. Jojoba is a carbon negative crop so is definitely considered a sustainable option." 

So where does that leave us—the people who are interested in and concerned about curating an eco-friendly beauty routine? Well, it leaves us with research. It's up to us to ensure the brands we're buying from align with our definition of "clean" and "green" beauty. We can shop from brands that make their sustainability efforts clear and remain transparent when it comes to their ingredient-sourcing and production methods.

Luckily, we're not completely without guidance, because both Engsall and LeRoux have advice for cutting through the marketing jargon when seeking out true eco-friendly beauty products. 

1. Look for Certifications 

There are certain certifications consumers can look for when purchasing products to ensure they've met specific standards. Generally speaking, those who have obtained these types of certifications are more likely to be walking the eco-friendly walk, not just talking the talk. "Organic certifications like Ecocert or Cosmos have very strict eco-friendly guidelines with production, packaging, and ingredients and are a good start if a consumer is wanting to embark on an eco-friendly product," Engsall says. "EWG is another certification that helps the consumer understand the ingredients in their products from a clean and safe perspective." 

LeRoux obtained Ecocert/Cosmos certification for One Love Organics eight years ago. "It's a clear standard that allows the consumer to see the exact percentage of natural and organic ingredients in each formula and ensures that the packaging is 100% recyclable, that the ingredients and final formulation are certified sustainable, non/GMO and cruelty-free," she says. "We researched for a couple of years before choosing this certification and I can stay after working with it for almost a decade, I would buy any cosmetic with this label without reserve. It's super thoughtful and rigorous with an in-person annual inspection of our facility each year." 

Other certifications you can look for include the Leaping Bunny Certification, which indicates that a company is cruelty-free in product development, and the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), which indicates responsible sourcing from and management of forests in packaging. Who What Wear's sister company, Versed, is 100% Leaping Bunny and FSC-certified. 

It's important to note that just because a company doesn't have a specific certification doesn't mean they're inherently bad or lesser than. As Engsall puts it, "It is hard for a company to find the right certifications to reflect the brand’s values. Luckily consumers nowadays are highly educated and many do their own research on ingredients and a company’s processes and make their own decisions and assumptions about how sustainable, clean, or green a product is. We at the jojoba company only use ingredients that feature in the green zone on the EWG scale to ensure the absolute safety of our products. All of our ingredients are ethically sourced and we always choose the natural alternative over the chemical one in all formulation decisions."

2. Look for Sustainable Packaging

"Things wrapped in lots of plastic are unlikely to be a sustainable option," Engsall says. "Instead opt for cardboard boxes and recyclable plastic or glass containers. Use biodegradable makeup removing wipes or better still, opt for a natural cleansing oil that removes all traces of dirt, sunscreen, and make-up without the need for a wipe at all." 

3. Avoid Specific Ingredients

There are certain beauty ingredients that have a negative environmental impact, which is why experts suggest avoiding them. LeRoux mentions petrochemicals specifically. "Petrochemicals aren't the best choice for your skin or the environment," she says. "It does not offer any real nourishment to the skin and it's a byproduct of the oil industry and therefore an unsustainable resource." 

Engsall recommends avoiding cosmetics with palm oil. "Cosmetics with Palm Oil are contributing to rapid deforestation and climate change unless sustainable palm oil is used," she says. "Certified sustainable palm oil is becoming more readily available which is a good thing for the industry." 

Engsall also recommends avoid BHA and BHT, "which can cause the death of fish and shellfish and genetic mutations in amphibians," sodium laureth sulfate, "which alters fish behavior and increases mortality," and DEA, "which is fatally toxic to amphibians, crustaceans, fish, nematodes, flatworms, and animal plankton." 

4. Try Waterless Products

Waterless products, well, save water, which is why LeRoux suggests incorporating them into an eco-friendly beauty routine. "Look for waterless products like oils, serums, and balms," she says. "They are super concentrated being made without water, a little goes a long way so these products tend to last longer than water-based products and your skin gets concentrated nutrition that is filler-free. They are truly win-win!" 

5. Recycle or Upcycle Packaging 

This is one of the easiest ways to be more eco-friendly. When you're finished with a beauty product, take the empty container and recycle it—that is if it's recyclable in the first place (packaging matters, people!). If it's not recyclable, then upcycle it. Clean it out and use it to store clips and pins or other odds and ends on your vanity. 

Recyclable packaging is where Versed shines brightest. Sixty percent of Versed's products are recyclable, while 40% are made with post-consumer recycled plastic (or PCR). The brand has a whole webpage devoted to recycling, along with visual aids for properly recycling used containers. The company also ships all of its products in biodegradable boxes and uses fuel-efficient shipping methods to transport them. All of these efforts have the brand nearing carbon neutrality, which is no small feat.

To celebrate the brand's Community Day on April 25, Versed is offering 10% off your entire eco-friendly cart. Keep scrolling to see 10 of our favorite Versed products to shop. 

Next up, see 55 brands that are defining a new era in sustainable beauty. 

I have a confession to make. I don't always love testing new skincare products. In fact, there are times when I dread testing new skincare products. I know that's somewhat sacrilegious to say, seeing as I'm a beauty writer and all, but it's the truth. The reason is that I have sensitive skin with a mild case of rosacea, so anytime I add a new product into my routine, especially one with active ingredients, I'm risking possible bumps, irritation, and extra redness. Needless to say, I approach new products warily yet hopefully. (Call me a cautious optimist.) 

That's exactly how I approached two new products that recently came across my desk: a serum and a night cream—both from Versed's new Advanced collection. I decided I'd test them, but I wouldn't test them alone. I enlisted the help of three other editors to try out the products alongside me. The idea was that each one of us would offer up an honest, independent review based on our specific skin type and concerns, and (spoiler alert) we loved them. Keep scrolling to read what each of us had to say. 

The Products

The Reviews

Sarah Yang, Managing Editor, THE/THIRTY

My skin type: I would consider my skin type "normal" with occasional bouts of dryness. So for me, hydration is my number one priority. I'm always looking for products that will moisturize my skin and won't leave it irritated.

The serum: I was so surprised that this lightweight serum managed to leave my skin so moisturized. I didn't even feel the need to add another product except for sunscreen after using this in the morning. I definitely think it helped even my skin tone, too. My skin looked brighter and refreshed. 

The cream: First, can we talk about the color of this cream? It's a pretty purple shade thanks to the fermented purple tea ingredient. That was a fun surprise when using the product for the first time. But in all seriousness, I thought this night cream was hydrating and made my skin feel smooth. I found I didn't have to use too much of the product to really get the full effect, either, which is great news because you know you're not going to need a refill any time soon. Sometimes after I use a night cream, my skin can still feel a little dry in the morning, but after using this one, I woke up, and my skin was still smooth and moisturized—and a little glowy, too.

Kat Collings, Editor in Chief

My skin type: My skin type is combination, and my biggest skin concerns are hydration and anti-aging. My motto is, "Let's do skincare like we mean it!" I want my regimen to create the highest level of results possible with products only, so I was really excited to try the new Advanced collection. 

The serum: When I think about my skincare routine, I often wonder if I'm missing something. Should I be using this type of product? Is my skin missing this ingredient? There's so much out there that it's hard to feel confident I'm taking advantage of the right things. For my a.m. routine, I've been on a (rather expensive) SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic ($166) kick for years now, and while I know the vitamin C and ferulic acid cocktail works well, I always wondered if I was missing something by not having a daytime serum as well. Well, my queries are answered with Versed's new Auto-Save Advanced Restoring Serum. It's got the key ingredients of C E Ferulic and nourishing microalgae, too. The creamy serum also goes on like a lotion, pretty much leaving my skin hydrated enough to skip moisturizer and head straight to sunscreen. When I heard it's called the daytime equivalent to retinol, I was sold. If you want one a.m. product that does it all, this is it. 

The cream: I've been seeing more fermented products come out on the market, so I'm not surprised that Versed is on top of the new wave in skincare. The brand's Recovery Mode Advanced Night Cream is literally the perfect "I mean business" moisturizer. When I use it, I feel like I really gave my skin a very thorough moisture drench that stops short of being overly thick or heavy. I also really like the delivery method with the push-down top. 

Courtney Higgs, Beauty Editor

My skin type: I have combination skin with dryness around the mouth, especially during the winter. My biggest skincare concerns are moisture retention, hyperpigmentation, texture refinement, and collagen preservation.

The serum: I've only recently extended my morning routine to include serums other than my favorite vitamin C before I go in with moisturizer and sunscreen. I don't know why it took me so long to realize that an extra hit of hydration in the morning could only help me in my pursuit of the most supple skin, but alas, here we are. Aside from having a really cute name, Auto-Save Advanced Restoring Serum fits right into that agenda of mine. It's packed with firming microalgae, plus an antioxidant complex made up of ferulic acid, phloretin, and vitamin C to protect and hydrate the skin while also staving off hyperpigmentation. I love that this serum is actually more like a lightweight moisturizer, so it can be used alone without risking patches of dry skin by midday.

The cream: I love retinol. Seriously, it's the most life-changing skincare product I've incorporated into my routine in recent years, and I haven't met a single dermatologist who doesn't think it's the best product to use if you want smoother skin. That said, I only use the stuff a few times per week and only at night, as directed by every package and every pro. Even with this conservative use, I sometimes still find that my skin can get a little dry if I don't follow up with an intense moisturizer. I actually love heavy night creams, as my skin can be especially dry during the winter, but I do worry about clogged pores. Versed's new Recovery Mode Advanced Night Cream is the perfect solution for that conundrum. It's a thick cream that leaves my skin feeling quenched and supple, that isn't greasy, and that doesn't feel like it's just sitting on top. It really sinks in and comforts the skin. Plus, its effects can still be felt in the morning, which I love. I was a little shocked by the purple hue of the cream at first, but once I learned that its coloring comes from fermented purple tea that delivers antioxidant protection and counteracts the oxidative effects of visible, UV, blue, and infrared lights (hello, screen time), my mind was put at ease. This is an excellent moisturizer!

Kaitlyn McLintock, Contributing Writer

My skin type: I have sensitive, redness-prone skin (especially around my nose and T-zone), so I'm always looking for products that will calm, soothe, and hydrate my skin… If it causes extra redness, it's out. At the same time, I'm looking for active ingredients that will keep signs of aging at bay because I'm at the age where collagen production naturally decreases (sigh). 

The serum: I want to talk about the texture of this serum. Unlike other watery serums that seem to evaporate the moment they hit your skin, this one provides real moisture. Like Sarah, Kat, and Courtney before me, I skipped moisturizer after application, reaching directly for my sunscreen instead. It's all thanks to its creamy, lotion-like formula, which I found to be nice and soothing to my skin. (It didn't cause any extra redness!) Even after I added a layer of sunscreen on top of it, my skin didn't pill or feel greasy or heavy—just calm, plump, and moisturized. 

I also want to talk about its antioxidant complex, which is a combination of ferulic acid, phloretin, and stabilized vitamin C. They work together to fend off free radicals throughout the day, which means my skin is protected from accelerated signs of aging. 

The cream: Here's the thing about night cream: I like the idea of it, but I rarely like it IRL. That's because so many of them feel heavy and greasy, and even though I almost always wash my face in the a.m., I hate waking up with an oil-slick complexion. That's not a problem with the Recovery Mode Advanced Night Cream. It's not as thick as other night creams, yet it's still super moisturizing. Basically, it feels like it really sinks into my skin versus sitting on top of it. (Can you tell that texture is really important to me?) 

As for the key ingredients, I love that it includes green coffee and microalgae, which are energizing and plumping, respectively. However, I'm particularly happy to slather it on knowing it includes fermented purple tea. The more antioxidants I can get on my skin, the better. 

Shop the new Advanced collection:

In my eternal quest to achieve bright, glowing skin, I have sampled hundreds of products. I'm talking about everything from cleansers and toners to moisturizers and masks. (The number of brightening serums I've tested is a category all its own.) 

While I have my favorites—namely Cosrx's Triple C Lightening Liquid ($27) and Peach & Lily's Super Reboot Resurfacing Mask ($43)—I've come to the conclusion that I will always and forever continue to test new products because I'm that committed to finding the best and most effective out there. Plus, as a beauty writer, it's quite literally my job. Nevertheless, I carry on as a discerning critic.

That brings me to the other day when Versed's $10 brightening mask came across my desk (or should I say my Target bag?). While I usually don't discriminate between high-end and drugstore products, I must say that the $10 price tag had me questioning its brightening abilities. However, with many celeb fans (pics to prove it at the end of this post), I figured I'd give it a go. Spoiler alert: It worked. Keep scrolling to read my full review. 

PS: Versed is offering 10% off today, February 23, with the code VIPLOVE10.

The first thing I have to say about this mask isn't actually about the mask. It's about the packaging. The mask comes in a handy pouch, which makes application less messy than traditional clay masks, as you can just squeeze it directly from the package onto the skin. There's no scooping and smearing involved. I also like the fact that it saves on shelf space, which is a precious commodity in my house… I'm grateful, as is my tiny bathroom. 

Before the Mask

The reason I love brightening products so much is because my skin has an affinity for dullness. My dry, redness-prone skin lacks natural radiance. As you can see, without a lick of makeup on and despite my best efforts, my complexion looks rather, well, tired to say the least. 

During the Mask

Upon application, I was happily surprised to find that the mask was smooth and creamy. It lacked the coarse, grainy texture of other clay masks, which just so happens to be the reason I've avoided them in the past. 

I applied it all around my face and waited the full recommended 15 minutes for it to do its work. Again, I was happily surprised to find that there was no extremely drying feeling like there is with other clay masks (you know, when it feels like you just dipped your face in wet cement). This one felt, dare I say, comfortable. 

After the Mask

Once I wiped it off using warm water and a washcloth, my skin was a little pink, but that's nothing new. (As someone who has a moderate case of rosacea, I'm used to that.) Aside from the slight redness, I noticed a certain brightness had come back to my complexion—a lit-from-within look—that was almost akin to a post-workout glow. I also noticed that the sagging skin around my eyes and lips seemed to be subtly tighter and perkier. 

A half hour later, the brightness was still apparent, so all I needed was a light touch of concealer under my eyes and around my nose along with a coat of mascara to feel ready for the day. That's a big deal since most days I won't start Zoom meetings without applying my beloved Chanel Les Beiges Foundation ($60).

Before you click add to cart, know that there are two other iterations of this face mask, and they're all $10 a piece. One is hydrating, and one is purifying. You can rotate them in and out depending on what your skin needs at any given time. 

Other Products I'm Adding to My Cart

Next, The Absolute Best Hair Masks, According to Editors and the Internet 

I'm just going to come out and say it: Oil has gotten a bad edit in the world of skincare. It's taken years for the industry to come back around after the oil-free marketing craze that swept the '90s left us all desperately sucking sebum out of our skin and expelling all sorts of oils from our routines altogether. We know now that this blanket categorization of oil as an evil, breakout-inducing substance that only serves to clog our pores and ruin our lives wasn't just unfair. It was grossly uninformed, too. 

Of course, not all oils are ideal for all skin types, but the same can be said for just about any other skincare ingredient out there. As beauty editors, we've had a front-row seat for oil's redemption tour and are well-informed on all the potential benefits of incorporating it at various stages in our routines. Not only this, but oils are evolving every day. This is why we were so excited when our clean, sustainable sister skincare line Versed announced that it would be introducing an oil (of sorts) of its own earlier this winter. The innovative oil-serum that followed is unlike any other product out there. Below, find out everything you need to know about Versed's Sunday Morning Antioxidant Oil-Serum ($20) along with honest reviews from our editors. Keep scrolling for all the tea.

Why You'll Love It

As I mentioned above, this isn't your average skincare oil… or your average serum, for that matter. This fact becomes pretty clear upon an initial examination of the visible separation of liquids inside the bottle. If you're familiar with old-school makeup remover, then this isn't a totally new visual, but it's still not every day that you see a skincare product with oil separated and dropped to the bottom of the bottle. 

But the magic of this dew booster isn't in what it looks like—it's in the versatility of use. A simple shake mixes all the delicious ingredients together to be deployed into the skin all at once for a bi-phase punch of moisture and brightening. The oil phase calls in antioxidants, fatty acids, vitamins, and omegas to promote bouncy, clear, and calm skin. The water then swoops in to impart anti-inflammatory plant extracts and hydrators like sodium hyaluronate to heal cell damage, smooth out uneven texture, and condition the skin.

The best part is that folks of all skin types—from dry and flaky to oily and acne prone—can benefit. It can be pressed into bare skin, layered on top of other serums, or even added underneath or on top of moisturizer to offer skin-strengthening support at any step of the routine. Due to its antibacterial, antiseptic, and anti-inflammatory properties, it’s a great choice for those with acne-prone skin who might otherwise skip out on oils or thick moisturizers as well as those with sensitive skin looking for an added layer of skin conditioning.

Key Ingredients

Camellia oil: This antioxidant and vitamin-packed oil is one of the most rapidly absorbed plant oils, making it nongreasy but still totally effective at preventing moisture loss.

Sea buckthorn berry extract: You've likely seen this buzzy extract on ingredients lists before, and that's because of its ability to boost elasticity and protect against cellular damage. It's also got anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce swelling and redness, so it's great for treating skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and rosacea.

Chamomile flower extract: This medicinal herb isn't just for steeping into a tea to soothe the body before bed. It's also great for topical use to condition, calm, and moisturize even the most sensitive skin types.

Jojoba oil: Got oily, acne-prone skin? Here's an oil you should know about. Since it closely resembles our skin’s natural sebum, it's perfect for regulating the skin's oil levels. It's lightweight, vitamin rich, and anti-inflammatory, too.

Sodium hyaluronate: Hyaluronic acid has become, perhaps, the most popular of the hydrating skin ingredients, but that doesn't mean it's the only one that can attract and hold incredible amounts of moisture in the skin. Sodium hyaluronate is another one. While it is a form of hyaluronic acid, it's even smaller in molecule size, making it more effective at hydrating deeper levels in the skin.

How to Use It

First things first, you'll want to give the bottle a good shake to mix up the two phases. And sure, take a moment to marvel as the shimmery ingredients bubble and dance as they start mingling together. Then, it's a "choose your own adventure" type of situation. You can press a few drops into a clean, dry face and neck or layer it on top of your favorite serums. If you prefer a weightless finish, you can even skip moisturizer altogether, but don't be afraid to sandwich it on top of or underneath moisturizer if you need more support. It provides the prettiest, dewiest glow when applied to the high points of the face on top of cream and is suitable for use in the morning and evening.

Our Reviews

Kat Collings, Editor in Chief

Skin type: combination

Major skin concerns: dryness and occasional breakouts

The review: This little serum-oil hybrid is a delight. Actually, it's not little. It comes in a generously sized bottle. I have a very similar product that is half the size and over twice the price! That makes it easy for me to be liberal with slathering this over my neck, too, an area I've historically been a bit too stingy with. As for the formula itself, I do notice it helps with brightening and keeping my skin looking its most radiant self. For those afraid of the heaviness of a traditional face oil, I think this hybrid is a great way to test the waters, as the serum makes it feel very light. It's also very pretty to look at, as you can see, and there's something weirdly meditative about turning the bottle slowly upside down a few times to mix the product before applying. (A rushed shake isn't nearly as calming but will do in a pinch!) It honestly makes it feel like I'm doing a self-care ritual, which makes me look forward to putting it on in the morning.

Courtney Higgs, Associate Beauty Editor

Skin type: combination with dryness around the mouth, especially during the winter

Major skin concerns: moisture retention and texture refinement

The review: Winter is the time when my combination skin goes full tilt toward the dry end of the skin spectrum. It's not uncommon for me to wake up with dry, tight skin, especially around my mouth, even if I packed on the moisturizer the night before. While I can occasionally experience oiliness in my T-zone and enlarged pores on my cheeks after weeks of piling on rich creams to keep my skin supple, I'm not one to cut back in the moisture department. I'd rather blot away excess oil than run the risk of having dry patches erupt on my face over the course of the day.

The first time I ever (and I do mean ever) skipped daytime moisturizer was the first time I tried this oil-serum. I layered it on top of my regular vitamin C serum and an additional vitamin B5 hydrator, and once I capped that concoction with a few drops of the Sunday Morning Oil-Serum, I felt no need to go in with additional moisturizer. I can't explain how abnormal this is. My skin might play nicely with just serum for a few hours, but historically, that aforementioned dryness around my mouth would normally emerge by lunchtime. That hasn't been the case any of the dozen or so times I've now replaced my moisturizer with this bi-phase treatment. I love how it makes my skin feel hydrated and bouncy without ever going greasy. Not to mention, shaking up the bottle to mix the ingredients is an absolute delight. I highly recommend giving this one a try!

Erin Jahns, Beauty Editor

Skin type: combination

Major skin concerns: acne, uneven skin texture, pigmentation, sensitivity

The review: I'm pretty sure my finicky combination skin has secretly been manifesting the launch of this dynamic oil-serum for years. There isn't much that my complexion tolerates. I veer a little dry, a little sensitive/inflammatory, and very acne prone. So that particular combination has left me with about 10 routine products I can consistently use without irritating or stripping my skin. A lot of formulas I try seem to work at first, but eventually, they lead to congestion and other side effects I don't love on my skin.

That said, this epic blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and skin-plumping natural hydrators is hella effective, and thus far, it has only improved my skin, not compromised it. The results are just as magical and glowy as the fizzy, Tang-like interior. I'm not a big serum person or a big face-oil person, so the fact that I'm loving this product is pretty telling. It absorbs quickly, but it still leaves this pretty, misty glow on your face that doesn't feel heavy or filmy. I have yet to try it under makeup, but I love how much it enhances my skin on days when I'm barefaced. I definitely recommend heeding the brand's advice and patting it into your skin (versus rubbing!) to get maximum radiance. I'm hooked. 

Sarah Yang, Managing Editor, THE/THIRTY

Skin type: normal to dry

Major skin concerns: dryness!

The review: I was a face-oil virgin before trying this serum, but now, I'm a convert. In the past, I was afraid to try face oils because I imagined that they would feel greasy and heavy and make my face look super shiny. This product, however, absorbs quickly, so it doesn't leave any greasy residue, which proved my previous thoughts wrong. I didn't know just one product could make my skin feel soft, hydrated, and glowy! After applying it, I don't feel like I need to put on a moisturizer or anything else at all, so it's a nice minimal option to add to my routine. I've been using it a few nights a week when I don't really feel like putting on a lot of product––I just wash my face and apply a few drops, and I'm done. It's so easy!

Shop More Top-Rated Versed Products

The SPF:

The overnight peel:

The oil-free moisturizer:

The starter retinol:

The brightening mask:

The intense moisturizer:

The resurfacing toner:

It's no secret—balanced, amply hydrated skin is the undeniable gateway to supple, dewy, youthful-looking skin. (Trust me—my 73-year-old dad looks ten years younger every time I force a hefty dollop of face cream on him.) Oddly, however, so many popular skincare products are working very much against us in that department. An alarming number of cleansers are overly harsh—stripping essential moisture from our skin and throwing our skin's delicate microbiome into precarious imbalance, and don't get us started on toners... many of which are notorious for being far too acidic and biting for our dew-starved winter skin. 

Of course, not all cleansers and toners are the devil incarnate for sensitive complexions, but as beauty editors, we pass on plenty more than we should due to unfavorable ingredient lists that we know will only dehydrate our skin. Therefore, we couldn't have been more excited when our non-toxic, sustainably-made sister skincare line Versed announced their newest launch: a milky, dreamy, plush-as-silk cleanser that not only effectively detoxifies and deep cleans pores, but pays it forward by reinvigorating skin with a hearty dose of nutritious moisture. Below, we're sharing everything you need to know about Versed's new Gentle Cycle Milky Cleanser ($15) in addition to sharing a handful of our editor's honest reviews and favorite complementary products from the brand. Keep scrolling! 

Why You'll Love It