Fall is here, and one of our favorite things about the season, aside from the chunky sweaters and vibrant leaves, are the beauty launches. This season, the most exciting launches were all about skin nourishment and skin perfecting, just in time for the wild temperature fluctuations of fall.
Shea Terra Organics Shea Nilotik 30% Whipped Body Cream ($16.00)
As someone with dry skin, I can attest to the efficacy of shea butter. But most shea butter body moisturizers on the market only have a small percentage of the ingredient. The Shea Nilotik body cream contains an impressive 30 percent virgin, cold-pressed shea butter, which will soften and protect even the driest skin. And the whipped texture means that it won’t feel heavy or leave a residue. Available in 19 scents, including Honeybush Peach, Marrakesh Menthe-Vanilla, Mongongo Banana, and Fragrance Free.
Kreyol Essence Haitian Black Castor Oil Light ($30)
Ingredient junkies have probably heard about the incredible treatment benefits of Black Castor Oil. As a refresher, it is high in Vitamin E, Omega 6 and 9 fatty acids, 80%+ ricinoleic acid, and minerals. It’s also a natural antibacterial and humectant. It can be used to deeply nourish the skin and hair, but if you’ve tried it, you know it can feel heavy. Kreyol Essence, a brand that is well known for its ethically sourced Haitian Black Castor Oil, has just launched a light version of their start product. The light version can be used daily on the skin and hair without the concern of buildup.
If you’re looking to treat yourself or someone else—or looking to develop a gift-worthy body care line—this is a new brand that should be on your radar. The collection includes a range of body care products, hair care products, and soy candles, available in five lovely, fresh scents like Lemongrass Lavender and Grapefruit Ginger. The products are all natural and made in the US, and the packaging is simple, elegant, and perfect for gifting or a little self-care. Full-size products in the $18-$24 range.
InstaNatural Collagen Night Cream ($22, launching late October on InstaNatural.com and Amazon)
I was fortunate enough to try this before it was available and it’s quickly become a favorite of mine. The formulation somehow feels rich and lightweight at the same time (I’ve used it under makeup even though it is designed for nighttime use). It contains Detoskin™, which is a clinically proven Peony Root Extract that helps to improve the appearance and elasticity of the skin. Also, for what it does and how good it makes the skin feel, you cannot beat the price.
If you’re itching to try this brand before the Collagen Night Cream is available, try their Retinol Moisturizer Anti Aging Cream, which is the number-one best seller in the facial polishes category.
Pure Bioderm Antioxidant Super Serum ($65)
If you’ve tried too many serums that don’t seem to be doing anything, this serum will make your day. It’s a blend of antioxidant ingredients, like vitamin C, Phloretin, and ferulic acid, which together will protect the skin from environmental stressors and help your skin look better in a matter of days.
Clarisonic Mia Smart ($199)
If you’re a Clarisonic user already, you already know how regular use can be transformative for the skin. The new Mia Smart is a hopped-up version of the earlier iterations that simply cleansed the skin. With the Mia Smart, you’ll find different settings for everything from makeup application to firming to eye massage. It also syncs to your smartphone to deliver customized skincare routines.
Josie Maran Vibrancy Argan Oil Concealer Fluid ($28)
After I left Three Custom Color Specialists, the beauty brand I co-founded, I have been on a quest for the best concealer to replace the one I helped create. I found it in this concealer. It covers like a dream anywhere on the face, has great staying power, and doesn’t crease or crack like concealers tend to do. The argan oil, elderberry flower, blueberry extract, and willow herb, hydrate, brighten, and reduce redness and puffiness.
Veil Cosmetics Automatte ($39)
If you get shiny during the day like I do, this vegan and cruelty-free mattifying compact is a must for your makeup bag. It’s appropriate for all skin types and skin tones, and can be used all over the face—including the eyes and lips—combating shine and oil while treating the skin with vitamins C and E.
C’est Moi Clarify Blemish Skin Care Collection ($10 and up)
If you or your teen/tween are suffering from breakouts, this budget-friendly skincare collection, which is available at Walmart, is worth a try. Using ingredients like salicylic acid, licorice extract and rice powder, the Blemish Treatment Pads, Cleansing Wipes, and Cleansing Scrub help to clear the skin without stripping or drying.
Spascriptions Superstar Glitter Peel-Off Mask ($9.99)
Perfect for a night in with your girlfriends or teen or tween sleepovers, this sparkly mask is fun for Instagram selfies, but it also purifies and deeply cleanses the skin while helping balance the pH. And you can’t beat the price for a night of fun and skincare!
