I’ll be honest: While I definitely make sure to wash my face once a day, it’s sometimes hard to remember (or motivate) myself to take off my makeup and sunscreen every night. And really, overwashing my face leaves it dry and sallow, especially in the summertime heat. This leads to a more complex skincare routine, involving an extra boost of serums, face oils, and moisturizer, to make up for the natural oils that are stripped clean during the process. What if there was a cleanser that moisturized while also removing the day’s debris? Something that, instead of leaving my face feeling tight and squeaky, left it smooth and supple. Well, after pouring through thousands of five-star Amazon reviews, I may have found a product that will motivate me to wash my face more than once a day, while also leaving a youthful glow in its wake: Albolene Moisturizing Cleanser and Makeup Remover. Albolene Moisturizing Cleanser and Makeup Remover Albolene moisturizing cleanser has been gracing the complexions of ladies for over a century. Similar to new-school cleansing balms, the cleanser’s time-honored formula effortlessly removes makeup without scrubbing, lathering, or rinsing. You simply place a small amount in your hands, massage it into your face and around your eyes, and then use a towel to wipe the makeup away. No water needed. This results in a clean and supple complexion, free of the dried-out feeling left behind by stripping cleansers. This cleanser is suitable for dry or combination skin, and is free of harsh soaps, parabens, and preservatives. One Amazon reviewer with sensitive skin attested to this fact, saying, ”I have sensitive, reactive skin, but have never had a poor reaction to Albolene … I am 30, but people never guess that I'm over 22 years of age. I credit that to using simple skincare products that do not strip or irritate the skin.” Another shopper said that their mother is 101 and “swears by this cream.” She wrote, “ Her skin looks really good (for 101 years old); no deep wrinkles… Must be the Albolene.” No deep wrinkles at 101 is unbelievable! I'd better get myself this $10 wonder cream in a jar, especially while it’s on sale for 48 percent off. Based on the testimonies, you should too, as it sounds like this tried-and-true formula really stands up to its claims. Check out these other cleansers—all in the new-school club—that’ll actually make you want to moisturize and cleanse your face daily. Farmacy Green Clean Waterproof Makeup Remover and Cleansing Balm Juno & Co. Clean 10 Cleansing Balm e.l.f. Skin Holy Hydration! Makeup Melting Cleansing Balm Maykoo Hydrating Makeup Remover Cleansing Balm One Step Makeup Remover Cleansing Balm

What is it about picking out a new nail color that feels like such a high stakes game? Maybe it’s the fact that you have to live with the color for a couple weeks (or longer if you’re an acrylic or gel person), or perhaps it’s the fact that you have to plan your upcoming outfits around this tiny detail. Opting for nail colors that go with everything can help ease some of the decision fatigue, and that doesn’t mean you have to choose a clear top coat or beige. These versatile nail colors go beyond the basics and still match with anything in your closet. 01 of 11 Cobalt Blue OK, hear us out before giving any side eye. “Cobalt blue has this clean, confident energy that always makes me feel put together,” says Juli Russell, celebrity nail artist for Sally Beauty. “It’s bold without being loud and somehow manages to feel both classic and modern at the same time. It plays so well with basics like denim, black, and white, but also surprises me by looking amazing next to warm tones like camel or even soft lilac.” It’s a great way to add color without worrying about a clash. 02 of 11 Mink-y Mauve If you’re aiming for a true neutral with just a hint of oomphy, opt for a milky, mink-y nude-mauve shade (e.g. OPI’s Do You Take Lei Away). “This is a neutral shade that complements any skin tone, but offers more coverage,” says Galdina Jimenez, nail artist and global education manager for OPI. “This shade can complement your tan, jean shorts, and bright bikini during the summer and also go with that little black dress at your holiday party.” 03 of 11 Iridescent Chrome Let’s give it up for a shimmering, iridescent chrome moment, which is definitely bound to earn you compliments and pairs with literally everything hanging in your closet. “Iridescent chrome reflects surrounding colors,” says Jacqueline Pham, celebrity manicurist from Color Street. Its metallic sheen acts like a neutral accessory, complementing both casual and formal styles. It’s a statement yet subtle enough to match your entire wardrobe. 04 of 11 Olive Green Green girlies looking for a shade that feels neutral will find it in olive green. This earthy hue doesn’t get enough credit for being so wearable. It’s especially pretty in the autumn months and complements denim, creams, rusty oranges, and black like a champ. It’s basically a warmer, more inviting alternative to gray. 05 of 11 Pink Milkshake Pink milkshake is a milky strawberry hue—like ice cream that’s just starting to melt a little bit. “It has that glazed finish that catches the light in a subtle way, sort of like lip gloss,” Russel says. “Pink milkshake is the older sister to the ‘your-nails-but-better’ trend, making it pair perfectly with any and all outfits. It’s soft, creamy, and feminine, perfect for date nights and the office.” 06 of 11 Crisp Linen White White nail polish is one of our favorites for all seasons, largely because it feels so clean and simple while still turning heads. “It’s the ultimate go-to for a fresh, minimalist look that works year-round, whether you're dressing up or keeping it casual,” notes Olivia Aguirre, Côte Beauty's lead nail artist. Make sure to use a white polish that delivers full, opaque coverage without looking chalky or streaky, like Côte’s Crisp Linen. 07 of 11 Salmon There’s talk of a sardine girl summer, but don’t write off another fish-inspired hue that pairs brilliantly with everything: salmon. “It's not quite pink, it's not quite orange, and it has both warmth and coolness,” says nail tech Jennifer Saxon. She explains that this combination of cool and warm undertones makes the hue more of a neutral hue, allowing it to play nicely with pretty much every other color. 08 of 11 Black-Blue Another blue that matches with everything is a deep, midnight-inspired blue that’s nearly black. It sidesteps any goth vibes with the blue tones, but still feels a little moody and edgy. “This deep blue shade is like your favorite pair of jeans that goes with everything,” Jimenez says. “It can complement a red dress, your favorite hot pink top, and looks professional with your favorite khaki suit.” 09 of 11 Butter Yellow There’s a huge surge in butter yellow happening right now. It’s almost as if people have finally discovered how gorgeous the hue is, how nicely it complements all skin tones, and how well it pairs with everything. If you’ve been putting off trying this trend, this is your sign to just go for it. 10 of 11 Cherry Red Red nail polish may feel like one of the most brazen hues you could pluck from the salon shelf, but it’s surprisingly versatile. “People act like red’s hard to wear, but cherry red makes everything look so much more luxurious and chic,” Russel tells us. “It pops against denim, turns heads with black, and somehow still plays nice with pinks, tans, and even leopard print.” 11 of 11 Turquoise Turquoise is another one of those hues that might seem like it won’t match with much, but if you look to color theory and seasonal color analysis you’ll see the opposite is true. Saxon says, “In seasonal color analysis, turquoise is a universal color because it looks good on everyone.”

There’s a whole maximalist nail thing happening right now, but sometimes a girl just wants a mani that’s simple and chic while still having a teeny bit of personality. Enter: soft serve nails, which mimic the dreamiest vanilla soft serve ice cream cone with a swirl of a second flavor for a hint of subtle contrast. This creamy manicure has quickly become the go-to look of the season; here’s everything you need to know about getting it yourself. What Are Soft Serve Nails? The soft serve manicure is a delicious twist on classic gradient nails that uses creamy colors that melt into each other—sort of like a double-flavor cone of perfectly twisted soft serve ice cream. “Picture the dreamiest vanilla soft serve swirl meeting strawberry milk, that's exactly what soft serve nails serve up on your fingertips,” says Meagan Swartwood, celebrity manicurist at Arctic Fox. “The name literally comes from how the colors melt into each other, usually featuring those classic pink-to-white transitions that scream summer sweetness.” She adds that while the classic go-to for this look is nude/milky white to pink, you can experiment with other hues like bright orange or soft lavender. How to Get Soft Serve Nails This look is definitely one for minimalists, or those craving a low-key mani that’ll match with everything you wear this summer. There are zero rhinestones or flashy finishes; it’s a simple manicure with just the right amount of freshness for the season. DIY Soft Serve Nails Thanks to its simplicity, this look is easy to recreate yourself. “All you need is white polish, your chosen shade, and something to blend with,” Swartwood says. “Start with your base coat, then apply your darker shade about halfway up the nail. Add white to the tips and—here's where the magic happens—grab a makeup sponge or even a small brush and gently blend where the colors meet.” The key is working while the polish is still slightly wet and being gentle with your blending motions. Traditional soft serve uses nude pink and white nail polish, but tbh, any color plus white will give you that dreamy milky effect we're all obsessed with. How to Ask for Soft Serve Nails at the Salon Ask for a "soft french ombre" or "milk bath gradient." Also, bring your inspo pics because visual references are your best friend. Swartwood says, “Most techs will know exactly what you mean, but having that photo eliminates any guesswork.” And pro tip: Specify you want that milky, blended finish versus a harsh line.

There's something about rising temperatures and the approach of summer that makes us crave some juicy fruit. Think a cup of mango on the streets of NYC, some crisp green grapes after commuting home from work, or a few watermelon fries while lying on the beach. Even better, think a tart Honeycrisp apple painted right on your fingernails. Huh? Let us explain. This summer's must-have nail trend is the "fruit skin" manicure, and our mouths are salivating just thinking about all the different kinds of sweet possibilities. What Is a Fruit Skin Manicure? Similar to the tiny lemons and blueberries we've seen on so many summer nails in the past, the fruit skin manicure gives picnic vibes—only it's a bit more zoomed in and abstract. For this type of design, the name really says it all: it's a manicure that resembles, as accurately as possible, the skin of a fruit. It's a design that requires "replicating the patterns and textures of real fruits on nails, in a hyper-realistic art style, using exact color matches and 3D elements to replicate the physical look and feel of the fruit," explains Juliette Matus, a professional nail artist and content creator. Instead of the oversaturated look of a regular fruit design, fruit skin nails are more art-forward with lots of intricate details. Some of those intricacies include the fruit's texture, and "all of the little dots, and the detailed skin," shares Jenna Armitage, a structured manicurist and Korean nail artist. When you buy an apple or a peach at the store, they are never just one solid color. Rather, they have strokes, grooves, and dots, all of which should be executed in the manicure. For Armitage, the fruit skin manicure pairs perfectly with summer's hot temperatures. Based in Florida, she has clients coming in frequently looking for "those juicy, fruity, summery nails." Where Did the Fruit Skin Manicure Originate? Just like all trends, the fruit skin manicure has its origin. Now, while we're not exactly sure who the first fruit skin manicurist was, most nail artists point to Korea or Japan. "I've seen more fruit skin nails from Korea than anywhere else," says Armitage. She thinks this is because Korean nail artists favor a more nuanced nail look, meaning they prefer to create abstract nail looks based on vibes over anything else. A nuanced nail look tends to lean more abstract, just like the fruit skin manicures. Cassie Huber, a licensed nail technician, thinks the evolution and increased popularity of the trend has a lot to do with nail artists becoming more experimental and artistic with their designs. "It's not just basic French manicures anymore," Huber explains. "A lot of artists are getting into nails, not just nail technicians." And, nail technicians and artists alike are playing around with more complex maximalist designs, or "all the fun stuff," as Huber refers to it. How to Execute a Juicy Fruit Skin Manicure The key to mastering any art form, nails included, is to have the right tools at your disposal. Huber perfected her mango skin manicure using shades of green, yellow, and orange pigment powders, while Armitage chose her 0.5 mm Diami liner brush to create the skin of a peach. Creating fruit skin nails, "takes a lot of colors," explains Armitage. "A lot of mixing and blending, but it's really fun." Bottom line, don't let the intricacies and artistry of fruit skin nails scare you away from trying them yourself. The abstract nature of this manicure actually makes it somewhat beginner friendly, and certain fruit skins are easier to master than you might think. "A pineapple or a dragon fruit is much more tedious than a strawberry because of the extensive detail in the patterns, layers, and the variation in texture of the skin," warns Matus. So, you may want to start with the skin of a mango instead. "Simply blending or airbrushing green, yellow, and orange shades can replicate the mango skin almost exactly." Matus' best advice for a beginner is to break down the skin you're trying to replicate into patterns and shapes, choosing a specific color for everything. "The most intricate looks are sometimes a lot easier to create than you might think at first glance."

Meghan Markle’s aesthetic is covetable for good reason—it’s relaxed and unfussy while still feeling elitely chic. This is true whether we’re talking about her minimalist outfits, one-pot pasta (don’t knock it until you try it), or her go-to summer pedicure. We’re honing into the latter today because, tbh, it’s a super customizable look we can all copy through these upcoming hot months. We enlisted manicurist Megan Swartwood to fill us in on the look and how to recreate it for your own toes. Meghan Markle’s Customized Pink Pedicure What’s so special about a pink polish, you ask? In this case, it’s the fact that Markle channeled her inner painter and mixed two pale pink polishes—CND Shellac Satin Slippers and CND Shellac Romantique—to create a custom look. Markle shared in an Instagram story that it was the exact nail polishes she wore on With Love, Meghan. “Meghan's two-tone pedi is so smart,” says Meagan Swartwood, manicurist and manager of Arctic Fox. “She's mixing two nude polishes to create this custom shade that's perfectly tailored to her skin tone. What I love about it is how polished it looks without trying too hard.” Plus, it works with literally everything, which is probably why Markle has made this her default pedicure. Swartwood says the look obvi fits in with Markle’s very curated aesthetic, but it’s also an extension of the minimalist nail trend that’s been huge lately. “[Lots of people are] gravitating toward these refined, understated looks instead of the super bold designs we were doing a few years ago,” Swartwood says. “It's part of that broader shift toward ‘effortless’ beauty. You know, those looks that appear simple but actually take some thought to pull off perfectly.” How to Get the Look If you’re at the salon, tell your nail tech you want to blend two nude shades for a custom color. “Bring two polishes: one that's almost white-nude and another that's a shade or two deeper. And instead of doing two coats of one color, ask them to do one coat of each and then finish with a top coat.” You can also ask them to mix the two colors together to get a beautiful, customized shade, then apply to your nails that way. (Swartwood adds that most techs love doing this kind of thing because it's a fun little creative challenge that doesn't add much time to your appointment.) If you’re DIYing Megan Markle’s pedicure at home, do the same. Start with shaped, buffed, and filed nails, then apply your base coat. After, apply one coat of the lighter shade, follow with the deeper shade, and finish with a glossy top coat. You can also mix the two nail polishes and apply them before your top coat. Just remember the formula so you can recreate it for each coat.

Every morning brings about the usual fare: an alarm clock that pulls you from a sleepy slumber, a cup of coffee with a swirl of creamer, and a skincare routine you’ve got down pat. For some, that beauty regimen can take up to an hour (or longer), but for others it’s a simple 15-minute process that allows them to walk out the door looking and feeling great in their skin—quite literally. Look closely at some of these beauty routines, though, and you’ll see that an investment of high-maintenance, high-tech treatments allows for an easy low-maintenance day-to-day routine. The High-Low Beauty Paradox More than ever before, we have access to a plenitude of high-tech skincare treatments and at-home gadgetry. The idea behind the “high-low paradox,” as Serene Obagi, NP-C, refers to it, is that the more we invest in these advanced technologies the less we have to do in both the short and long-term. “When we invest in medical-grade care, whether that’s home regimens or in-office procedures, you’re training your skin to behave better, act younger, and perform more efficiently [and for] longer,” Obagi explains. “That means there will be less work in front of the mirror every morning or night, and more confidence in your bare skin.” Celebrity esthetician Candice Marino agrees. She says that in her 20-year skincare career, she’s practiced and preached the high-maintenance/low-maintenance lifestyle to her clientele. “Your yearly, quarterly, and monthly treatments are what allow you to be effortlessly low-maintenance in your daily life,” she explains. “I’ve always been a strong advocate for investing in your skin first. When your skin looks its best, makeup becomes optional, and your everyday routine becomes that much easier.” The Best High-Tech Treatments for Low Maintenance Care A simple skincare routine of cleansing, moisturizing, and wearing SPF can take you very far in your quest for a low-maintenance day-to-day skincare routine, but if you want to level up then it’s smart to invest in in-office treatments and (proven effective) at-home gadgets. We surveyed skincare experts about their top recommendations. In-Office Treatments Ultimately, the best in-office treatments for a low maintenance skincare routine at home is one that aligns with your specific needs. Maybe you’re concerned about dark spots, or perhaps it’s fine lines or laxity. A combination of regenerative, resurfacing treatments is often ideal. Your provider can guide you on this journey, but here are some tried-and-true favorites. Neuromodulators: Neuromodulators like Botox, Dysport, Xeomin, and Jeuveau temporarily freeze your muscles to smooth fine lines and wrinkles and prevent new ones from forming. Obagi says, “This is the best way to prevent static lines on the face and appear more youthful and relaxed.” Biostimulators: Biostimulators, such as Sculptra (injectible) or PRX-T33 (topical) work by stimulating your skin’s natural collagen production, gradually improving firmness, texture, and elasticity over time. These treatments build a long-lasting foundation for fewer touch-ups over the long-term. NeoGen Plasma Skin Resurfacing: This is considered one of the most advanced and versatile skin technologies. “Unlike traditional lasers or microneedling, NeoGen uses nitrogen plasma to deliver controlled thermal energy deep into the skin while preserving the outer layer as a natural barrier,” explains Glenicia Nosworthy, MD, internal medicine and aesthetic physician and founder of Beauty Hacking™️. Microneedling: Especially when paired with radiofrequency (RF), LPD laser, and/or skin boosters, microneedling is a game-changer for your skin. “It stimulates collagen and improves tone/texture from the inside out,” Obagi explains. “RF microneedling tightens and firms while FLPD targets pigment, redness, and uneven, blotchy skin.” Platelet Rich Fibrin (PRF): These treatments are created from your own blood and concentrated with growth factors that stimulate repair. “I use it in delicate areas like the under eyes, in the scalp for hair restoration, or throughout the skin to support texture and tone. It’s natural, safe, and incredibly effective,” Dr. Nosworthy says. Best At-Home Skincare There’s plenty you can do at home, too. Red Light Therapy: “This is something I use regularly and recommend to so many of my patients,” Dr. Nosworthy says. “It’s gentle but powerful, and it works at the cellular level by supporting mitochondrial health.” Make sure to choose a reputable brand, and note that a flexible mask allows you to use it on your face, neck, and other parts of your body. Prescription Retinol: Only second to SPF, prescription retinol is a long-time favorite among skincare pros. And it’s helpful to use a medical-grade prescription, which is customized to your skin’s needs and the most bioavailable and therefore effective. Microcurrent Devices: Handheld microcurrent tools use low-level electrical currents to help tone facial muscles and improve skin firmness with consistent use. While results are subtle and cumulative, many dermatologists say it’s like a workout for your face, helping to delay more invasive treatments down the line. At-Home Peels: Gentle chemical exfoliation, done weekly or biweekly depending on the formula, helps keep pores clear, brightens skin tone, and improves texture. Over time, it can reduce the need for more frequent facials or corrective treatments, especially when paired with hydrating and barrier-supporting products.

Once again, the social zeitgeist has spit out a new skincare trend that we're all told we need to try. But, unlike pore strips, microneedling at home, or tanning to get rid of acne, this trend has dermatologists' and estheticians' full support. We're not talking about a new skincare tool or product; we're talking about an ingredient—one that's safe for all skin types. Found in various serums, moisturizers, and pads, we'd love to introduce you to madecassoside. What Is Madecassoside? "Madecassoside is one of the most active ingredients found in the leaves of a Centella asiatica plant," explains Gabriella Vasile, MD, FACMS, a double board-certified dermatologist, fellowship-trained Mohs surgeon, and founder of Réforme Dermatology and Aesthetics. It can be used on all skin types, but Dr. Vasile specifically recommends it for patients with sensitive or acne-prone skin. "It's both anti-inflammatory and an antioxidant, so it's soothing for the skin and also reduces free radical formation," she says. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage your skin cells. They often lead to increased inflammation and irritation, which is why ingredients like madecassoside can be so beneficial. The Centalla asiatica plant, commonly known as tiger grass, is native to the tropical and subtropical regions of Asia, making madecassoside one of the many skincare trends made popular by Korean beauty. Given the lasting popularity of K-beauty favorites like snail mucin and overnight sheet masks, madecassoside’s growing buzz feels like a natural next step. "My patients have been loving simple skincare regimens with hydrating ingredients, so it makes sense that a soothing product that helps to strengthen the skin barrier has been gaining popularity," says Dr. Vasile. How And When to Use Madecassoside Madecassoside's soothing properties don't just apply to sensitive and acne-prone skin—they can also be helpful for post-procedural healing. Toral Vaidya, MD, MPH, a board-certified dermatologist practicing at MDCS Dermatology in New York City, often reaches for madecassoside-containing products after performing laser or peel procedures on her patients to help calm irritated or inflamed skin. She also recommends it for patients with rosacea-prone skin. There seem to be countless skin struggles that madecassoside can help remedy, but will using it interfere with your perfectly crafted daily skin care routine? Absolutely not. In fact, madecassoside "pairs well with other antioxidants, retinoids or exfoliating acids," explains Dr. Vaidya. It works cohesively with other active ingredients "to mitigate irritation and dryness." So, rest assured, if you add madecassoside into your routine, there will be no need to forgo your tretinoin, vitamin C, or azelaic acid. Hannah Picchi, licensed esthetician, shares that madecassoside is very easy to layer. When adding it into your daily routine, "use it after cleansing and toning, and before heavier moisturizers or occlusives," advises Picchi. Things to Keep In Mind Like all skincare trends, there is a wrong way to use madecassoside and there are a few common misconceptions that skincare professionals want you to keep in mind. For Picchi, she likes to remind her clients that they will only reap the benefits of madecassoside if they use it regularly in their routine—it should not be used reactively. Also, understand that "calming" doesn't always equal "hydrating," and a layer of moisturizer should always be applied after a madecassoside product. Bottom line: madecassoside is safe and beneficial for all skin types, but its soothing properties won't take effect overnight. Dr. Vasile reminds her patients that "like any skincare product, it does take a few weeks to work and see results." Which Madecassoside Product Should You Buy? Since madecassoside is an ingredient and not a standalone product, you have flexibility in choosing the type of formula that works best for your routine. That said, all three skincare experts we spoke to had the same favorite: La Roche-Posay's Cicaplast Baume B5. "It's a multi-purpose balm that I personally use and recommend on a frequent basis, especially post-procedure," says Dr. Vaidya. "It helps protect the skin, relieve sensitivities, and promote wound healing." Along with madecassoside, it also contains shea butter and glycerin for hydrating and soothing benefits.

Skincare can feel like a full-time job. With so many products promising glowy, glassy, porcelain-smooth skin, it’s tough to know what actually delivers. That’s where I come in. I’ve been testing beauty products professionally for almost 20 years—and as Beauty Director at Real Simple, I’ve made it my mission to help you cut through the clutter. After talking to dermatologists daily, I’ve learned two key truths: a high price tag doesn’t guarantee results and a simple, well-thought-out routine always wins. Enter Bubble Skincare. The brand makes gentle products that cleanse and hydrate without irritating sensitive skin—and not a single product will cost you more than $20. Yes, it’s a hit with the TikTok crowd, but don’t let that fool you. I’ve got 40-something combination skin, and this line fits seamlessly into my grown-up routine. So when its newest product—a milky toner housed in a purple bottle—landed on my desk, I was pumped. After a few weeks of testing, I knew this was going to take a permanent place in my routine. Bubble Skincare Cosmic Silk Hydrating Milky Toner At first glance, Bubble Skincare is undeniably cute—like eye candy for your bathroom shelf. The vibrant pastel bottles instantly brighten up your medicine cabinet and bring a little joy to your daily routine. But beneath the playful packaging lies something even better: seriously effective ingredients. Case in point? The brand’s new toner, which boasts a powerhouse lineup. First up: fatty acids—specifically oleic and linoleic acids—which are essential for maintaining a healthy skin barrier. After years of experimenting with products and treatments, I’ve come to rely on barrier-boosting ingredients to keep my skin happy. Then there’s arnica and allantoin, two gentle heroes known for calming irritation. As someone with sensitive, redness-prone skin, I breathe a little easier knowing this formula includes such a soothing combo. It also packs in plant-based ceramides that help lock moisture in and keep environmental aggressors out, while a hyaluronic acid blend delivers hydration at multiple layers of the skin. Bonus points for the addition of maple sap water, which provides a soft, dewy finish. These ingredients don’t just sound good on paper—dermatologists back them up, too. Application is simple and mess-free. After cleansing, I pour a few drops into my hands, rub them together, and press the toner gently into my skin—cheeks first, then forehead, chin, and neck. No cotton pads required. The milky texture feels instantly calming, and it helps prep your skin to absorb the rest of your skincare—like serums and moisturizers—even better. (We’ve come a long way from the harsh, alcohol-laced versions we grew up with.) After just one use, my skin felt calm, hydrated, and noticeably plump. A few days in, I could actually see the difference: the redness on my cheeks had faded, my makeup applied more smoothly thanks to a softer texture, and my complexion had a fresh, healthy glow. With two kids and a hectic commute, I rarely get the sleep I need—so I’m always hunting for skincare that helps me look more awake than I feel. And usually, achieving that glow means using a stronger exfoliant like glycolic acid, but this toner gives me that “dewy dumpling” skin effect without any irritation. If you’re building out your routine, here are some other affordable, effective Bubble Skincare faves worth exploring. While the brand originally made waves with formulas targeting teen breakouts, it has since evolved into a line with something for everyone. Bubble Skincare First Class Oil Cleanser Bubble Skincare Moon Walk Gentle Exfoliating Serum Bubble Skincare Cloud Surf Water Cream Moisturizer Bubble Skincare Plus One Tinted Daily Mineral Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 40 Bubble Skincare Tell All Juicy Secret Berry Lip Balm

Jennifer Lopez is the definition of a trendsetter. From plunging Versace dresses to glazed donut skin (before it had a name), JLo has long been at the forefront of beauty and fashion innovation. Every red carpet moment is a masterclass in glam, and her recent appearance at the American Music Awards on May 26 was no exception. But this time, the spotlight was on her nails—which adorned a shimmering, ethereal look dubbed “astral nails.” Astral nails are the latest entry in JLo’s long-running catalogue of beauty moments that set the tone for what’s next. The look features a sheer pink base layered with an iridescent chrome finish that catches the light with every movement—and as celebrity manicurist and Sally Hansen Global Nail Partner Steph Stone puts it, "are like staring into a bottle of champagne bubbles." At the AMAs, the nails played off her sleek metallic gown with just the right amount of contrast—soft where the dress was sharp, luminous where the fabric was structured. The result was a celestial, otherworldly detail that tied the entire look together. Created by her longtime nail artist Tom Bachik, the look feels fresh, dimensional, and quietly futuristic. Subtle but far from boring, JLo’s astral nails are already making the case for a softer kind of statement. Keep reading for the details behind the look—and exactly how to pull it off. How to Get The Look Recreating JLo’s nails starts with a solid foundation. According to Tom Bachik, it’s all about prep—he used his go-to tools from the Tom Bachik x Tweezerman Ultimate Nail Care Set to perfect her nail beds before applying the extensions. For length, "Jen’s loving a longer nail right now but not too long," says Bachik, so the duo opted for a medium coffin-shaped Gel-X extensions from Aprés Nails. The shape gives just enough drama without crossing into impractical territory. The real star of the look, though, is the finish. Bachik used Aprés Astral Flash Gel in Santo My Palo, which delivers a high-shine, multidimensional sparkle that shifts with the light. The effect is ultra-reflective and layered, with glitter, chrome, and sheer elements working together to mimic a crystal-covered circuit board—echoing JLo’s futuristic performance outfit. It’s not just glitter, either. It’s depth, dimension, and a little sci-fi fantasy wrapped into one. If you’re looking to get in on the trend without the full salon setup, Stone suggests playing with glitter tones that feel atmospheric, like champagne bubbles, stardust, or anything that looks like it belongs in a galaxy far, far away. “Though she chose to achieve this look with golden glitter, you can recreate it in any color tone you love—as long as it looks like you’re looking into outer space,” she says. Press-ons are also fair game. Stone recommends Sally Hansen Perfect Press On in Hyp-Nautical for a fast, no-dry-time option that mimics the same iridescent glow and tapered shape JLo wore on the red carpet.

We’re all pretty locked in when it comes to SPF these days—tinted formulas in the morning, mineral mists by noon, maybe even a UPF bucket hat if we’re feeling extra. But there’s one spot almost everyone forgets to protect, and trust, it matters more than you think. Yep, we’re talking about your lips. While we’re all trained to slather sunscreen on our faces (and kind of blend it toward the hairline), the lips are usually an afterthought, if they’re remembered at all. According to Catie Boucher, a board-certified dermatology nurse practitioner and founder of SavvyDerm, that’s a huge mistake. “The lips are almost always an afterthought when it comes to sun protection,” she says. “But they should be a priority.” The skin on your lips is thinner and more delicate than the rest of your face, which means it’s especially vulnerable to sun damage. Neglecting SPF here doesn’t just risk a painful burn—it can accelerate aging and increase the chance of precancerous spots. So yeah, your lips deserve way more love when it comes to sun protection. Want to learn how to stay protected? Read on below for derm-approved tips and tricks. Why You Really Need to Protect Your Lips First, let’s talk pain. Unlike a shoulder sunburn that you can ignore under a T-shirt, a lip burn makes everyday things like eating, drinking, or even smiling. Worse, it can trigger cold sores for those prone to them, which is simply an insult on top of injury. But it’s not just a discomfort thing. “After nearly a decade in dermatology, I saw so many precancerous lesions develop on the lips,” says Boucher. “These aren’t skin cancer yet, but they can become cancerous if left untreated.” That often means prescription chemo creams, topical treatments that are seriously painful, and can turn basic tasks like sipping water into a full-on ordeal. Yeah… not worth skipping that lip balm. And while you might not see damage right after a day in the sun, that doesn’t mean it’s not happening beneath the surface. Over time, UV exposure to the lips (or any often-neglected area) breaks down collagen and elastin, the proteins responsible for keeping skin firm and smooth. This damage speeds up visible signs of aging like fine lines, rough texture, and uneven tone. As Boucher explains, “the skin is our largest organ, and while many people are focused on achieving a glow, neglecting skin health has consequences that go far beyond the surface.” Without proper protection, this sun damage can accumulate quietly but relentlessly, leading to spots that won’t heal, premature aging, and even precancerous lesions. So protecting your lips with SPF isn’t just about avoiding a painful burn—it’s an essential step in preserving your skin’s health and youthful appearance. How to Actually Remember These Easy-to-Miss Spots The good news is, we’re living in a golden age of genius SPF products designed to cover these sneaky zones. And to make sure you don’t miss a spot, Boucher recommends applying lip SPF before you put on anything else, especially before heading out in a bathing suit or to the beach. “Applying sunscreen before putting on your bathing suit, not after,” she says, “is one of the easiest ways to make sure nothing gets missed in those hard-to-reach, often-burned areas—especially your lips.” If you’re worried about reapplying, keep a lip-specific SPF gloss or balm in your bag for quick touch-ups. The best formulas blend seamlessly with your favorite lip color or give a subtle shine, so you’re protected without sacrificing style. Colorescience makes lip glosses that double as mineral SPF, which Boucher swears by, noting “you’d never know they’re actually for sun protection.” Products like this make it easy to keep your pout safe and stylish all day long without that thick, sticky feel. Bottom line? If your lips have been the forgotten SPF zone, it’s time to change that. A little lip love with the right SPF can save you from painful burns, premature aging, and serious damage down the road—plus, it keeps your smile looking flawless. It's a win-win.