The Magic of Tranexamic Acid, a Prescription Powerhouse Fighting Melasma and Dark Spots

Let’s skip the poetic preamble and get straight to the point: tranexamic acid in pill form, available only by prescription, works wonders for melasma and dark spots. Unlike harsher topicals such as hydroquinone and tretinoin—which have somehow become the established norm—tranexamic acid taken orally doesn’t leave your skin sun-sensitive, and it doesn’t compromise your skin barrier either. 

For years, my dermatologist Dr. Jessica Wu has been urging me to consider tranexamic acid in pill form to help with dark spots and melasma. I was hesitant (not because I don’t trust her; on the contrary, I often hang on to her every word. She’s a respected Harvard grad with impeccable Dior ensembles, and she communicates clearly.). I was reluctant to listen to her because I wasn’t interested in taking an oral prescription that didn’t seem necessary. It’s important to note here that I’m 50, and at age 39, after having my third child, I went straight into menopause. I’ve been on hormone replacement therapy ever since, so I am extremely cautious about adding anything extra to my regimen. However, after this very hot summer, which gifted me melasma galore, I reflected on the harsh topicals I’ve tested in the past—hydroquinone, tretinoin, and vitamin C (which just doesn’t always vibe with me, sorry)—as well as various other actives containing mercury and peroxide that were absorbed into my bloodstream. While these may not be inherently dangerous, I questioned whether my skin—the largest organ in the body—really needed to absorb such ingredients for the sake of achieving an even complexion.

So why not test this out? I went for it. I got the prescription, and for the past three weeks, I’ve been taking half a pill in the morning and half at night. During this time, I faced several potential melasma triggers, including a massive heatwave in L.A. and a recent trip to humid Mexico. Remarkably, I noticed my skin was looking really great and melasma was not triggered—not even once. I felt confident enough to forgo makeup, and my skin appears even and fantastic. Did all of my spots disappear? No, but they were greatly minimized.

Dr. Wu generally prescribes this pill for 3 to 6 months, followed by a break. After that, pigmentation may slowly return, necessitating another round. I want to point out that you need to consult with your doctor, as this treatment isn’t for everyone. You must be the right candidate. As Dr. Wu explains, “Taking these pills for melasma is an 'off-label' use. This means it’s FDA-approved for a different condition—heavy menstrual periods—but physicians may prescribe it for other uses when deemed medically appropriate.” She also notes that there may be an increased risk of blood clots for some patients, so a consultation with your internist is essential. While a few patients might experience nausea or diarrhea, I can’t imagine that’s worse than the side effects of Ozempic, the "Splenda" of my beloved L.A. community.

My goal is to be honest about what works for me, and this pill has been incredibly effective for managing a skin condition exacerbated by hormones. If you're grappling with similar issues, it may be worth discussing with your dermatologist.

The Facial That Erases Fatigue and Time, Courtesy of Joomee Song

Sometimes, a facial massage from a skilled aesthetician delivers benefits that topicals simply can’t match. As someone who often experiments with beauty treatments galore—sometimes resulting in looks that feel more suited for an audition in a sci-fi movie—I always, without fail, marvel at the way Joomee Song transforms my face. Her facials leave me looking well-rested and rejuvenated every time. 

I can honestly say that Joomee, who is based in a fairly nondescript building in Brentwood, is a true virtuoso, renowned in the beauty world for her exceptional facial massage technique. When she works her facial magic, it’s similar to a sculptor handling clay. Her precise method is individually tailored to one’s unique facial bone structure, balancing facial muscles and fascia tension, and delivering results. It’s got a lot to do with blood flow, circulation, and a sense of intuition when it comes to the grooves of the facial skin—and the results are impressive. 

A mere five minutes on Joomee’s table is healing. Almost instantly, I’ll start tuning out the rest of the world in her peaceful space. As the massage begins, I can feel my facial muscles and jaw tension easing significantly. Joomee’s clientele includes some of the most famous faces in the world, but I appreciate how she treats everyone with equal care and concern. What sets her apart is her intuitive understanding of what each face needs, especially when it comes to detoxification and stress relief. After each session, she’ll assign some homework: a short daily self-massage—just one to three minutes—to keep your skin glowing and your blood flowing. Every time I experience her treatment, I’m amazed at how my face looks—like I’ve had a full week of restful sleep (which I can never seem to manage. I suppose this is the next best thing to hibernation).

Introducing: Letters From Friends

I wanted to create this section in The Editor’s Edit for two important reasons. First and foremost, I hoped to make a permanent place on TEE where people I trust could share valuable insights into products, experiences, and places that enhanced their lives. In today’s media landscape, where endorsements often come with hidden motives, I've noticed far too often a trend of product reviews driven by a need to buy. Are these reviews genuine or merely sales pitches? With this new Letters From Friends section, you’ll hear from makeup gurus, aestheticians, editors, and generally chic people sharing their favorite things—with a dose of honest and insightful wisdom.

Each post will be dedicated to honesty without personal gain; the idea is to share authentic experiences and the things we love. Basically, I want to offer genuine perspectives that will positively impact your life in some way. It could be as simple as a reliable sunscreen or a transformative skincare regimen, a perfume that becomes your signature scent, or a book that offers solace during difficult times (or inspires you to pursue your dreams). I’m not counting out innovative beauty tools, physical therapy, or a hidden gem of a Parisian hotel, either. Sharing without needing anything in return is a valuable and worldly concept that’s often overlooked. So I’d like to foster a little space for it here.

Introducing: Facial of the Moment

You know the value of an excellent facial when it doesn’t just deliver glowing skin for 24 hours—it provides radiance for days and days after your appointment. In this new section, Facial of the Moment, I’ll spotlight top aestheticians whose facials stand out not only for their immediate effects, but also for their lasting benefits. This is a fresh, honest, and tapped-in take you won’t find anywhere else. I want to offer a behind-the-scenes look at industry leaders and their unique skin philosophies, specialties, and techniques, so my goal is to be transparent and personable, providing you with real reviews so you can make informed choices about where to invest in your skincare. Whether a facial costs $200 or $1400, I’m here to ensure you get the best bang for your buck. Expect witty and insightful commentary, all while keeping your best interests at heart.

The Skin Gym High-Frequency Wand: Your New BFF for Breakouts and Blemish Control

We’ve all faced this harrowing scenario: an important event is looming, and suddenly, a pimple decides to make an unwelcome appearance day-of. Even if breakouts aren't your usual issue, finding a quick solution can be challenging when it comes to breakouts, especially if you're away from your trusted aesthetician. Enter the Skin Gym High-Frequency Wand, an essential at-home face tool that I know will become your go-to for blemish control.

This tool works by targeting those pesky pimples with electric currents that eliminate bacteria within the blemish. To incorporate the device into your skincare routine, start with cleansing, exfoliating, and masking—or, if you’re short on time, just make sure skin is properly cleansed. Then, place a piece of gauze over the blemish and adjust the wand to your preferred strength. Gently move the glass head of the tool over the area for about a minute. If you’re using the HFW for general skin maintenance to prevent bacteria buildup and not a single blemish, you can roll it over your entire face (with the gauze still in place) for about a minute. Depending on your skin’s response, you will normally see improvement in a day or a few days. How often should you use it? Well, if I have a blemish that pops up a few days before an event, I use the tool morning and night until the day of the party arrives. Even if the pimple isn’t completely gone, the HFW is excellent at minimizing it—or speeding up its departure. The Skin Gym High-Frequency Wand comes in three different zapper sizes to go over the complexion (one is designed to fit the overall contour of your face, while one is smaller, and specifically pinpoints the exact blemish. There’s even another circular-shaped attachment for larger surface areas). All in all, it’s a high-quality, straightforward tool that gives excellent results.

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Cocokind’s Serum Is the Best for Softening Dark Spots

I get frustrated by beauty brands pushing the same active ingredients over and over—especially when many of them fall short. For instance, hyaluronic acid often feels like a temporary fix, more a quick fling than a lasting solution (and let’s not even start on the confusion of short-chain versus long-chain formulations). Also, depending on your location and climate, especially in arid areas, HA can even leave your skin feeling drier. Then there’s the usual we hear every day ad neauseum: vitamin C, bakuchiol, and retinol…actives I am more than tired of hearing because I still haven’t seen incredibly transformative results from them. I am also of the mind that you don’t need a high percentage of actives for a skincare product to work.  A 20% vit C active is not necessarily better than a 10% vitamin C.

When it comes to skin brightening, there’s a standout product I always recommend: Cocokind’s Chlorophyll Discoloration Serum. This serum features alpha arbutin, a natural alternative to hydroquinone. Derived from mulberry or bearberry plants, alpha arbutin works by gradually inhibiting tyrosinase production, which reduces melanin formation and helps diminish dark spots and hyperpigmentation. Beyond brightening, it also soothes redness and has antimicrobial properties to help control acne. It’s a key part of my routine, though it does require some patience for visible results, as it takes time. Plus, at $22, it's refreshing to find an effective product that doesn’t break the bank.

The Sublime Pink Lipstick That Will Elevate Your Every Look

I cover a lot of lipstick shades. And I can joyfully report that I’ve found the most glorious pigment, one which oozes sophistication: Sisley Phyto Rouge lipstick in the color Rose Delhi. This deep, vibrant pink is flattering on many skin tones; it’s got refined elegance and unapologetic sexiness all at once. I love this product’s long-lasting hydration and wearability, thanks to Sisley’s Hydrobooster complex, which also plumps the lips. No matter the season or occasion—whether you’re heading to a summer soirée or a snowy dinner —I guarantee this lipstick seamlessly adapts to any event (even with jeans and a T-shirt, my friends). I urge you to embrace the power of this sure-to-be-a-mainstay lipstick. The only element you need to add to enhance this look is the confidence you know you already bring to the table.

The Super-charged Serum That Makes All the Difference

What do the savvy and attractive inhabitants of Miami, L.A., and New York all share? The ability to dial up master aesthetician Iván Pol at any time—that is, if they can get a spot on the list for his famed Beauty Sandwich facial, which has found fans in the likes of Emma Stone and Salma Hayek. Pol has been the global go-to for years, prepping major socialites and celebrities alike with his special radio frequency method. His approach has the power to truly transform your skin. Without the usual peeling, pricking or popping you might experience in another facialist’s chair, Pol’s hands work their magic. His method calls for only the best ingredients to wake the skin up and have it glow continuously throughout the day. Last year, he debuted a serum called SS02 Snatching Sauce, and it’s really incredible. The Kalahari melon included in this formulation is the hero here. It reduces puffiness, smooths, and hydrates. It also has a beautiful brightening effect. I use this product often: alone, without a moisturizer, whatever. I often think facialists know more than derms because they work on the skin daily—they know, they see results, they touch the face. I trust Pol, and after much field testing, I trust his products, too.

Shu Uemura’s Hair Mask Brings Life to Damaged Locks

Achieving an effortless hair look can seem like a pipe dream—at least, in my experience. When I was younger, I watched countless commercials for hair products that featured women tossing their shining, flaxen locks into the camera. And I believed that beautiful hair could be very easily attained, using the right products. But reality hit hard when I grew up and realized those women had a team preparing, drying, and volumizing their hair behind the scenes (thank you, Finesse and Flex). That said, if your haircare routine involves color treatments, highlights, blowouts, and very hot styling tools, you know it takes a lot of work for your hair to look good. You also know how crucial it is to use top-quality hair products to maintain silky, soft, and, more importantly, healthy hair. I’ve always prioritized shiny and manageable hair, but a few years ago, I began noticing that my once silky mane felt as coarse as a kitchen broom. It was perplexing: I always used the best products, rich with protein—a component I thought was beneficial for my hair.  My colorist identified the issue: I was using too many protein-rich products. He recommended switching to more hydrating options and reducing the bond-builders that were once so popular.

He introduced me to two of Shu Uemura's hair masks. One was a hydrating mask for regular use, and the other was a weekly treatment called the Ultimate Reset Hair Mask. This product not only hydrates, it also repairs, thanks to its key ingredient: rice extract sourced from Japan. After the first application, my hair felt revitalized, like it had received an injection of hydration. I apply this mask once a week, leaving it on for just five minutes (though you can leave it longer for even better-looking locks). Despite the $73 price tag per jar—which may seem steep—is about the cost of a single blowout. Prioritizing healthy hair over frequent blowouts is a clear choice for me, and the Shu Uemura Ultimate Reset Hair Mask has become an essential part of my hair routine. Lastly, a personal tip: rotate your hair products every few months to prevent your strands from becoming too accustomed to one product.

Why The Celluma LED Excels Over All Other Beauty Devices

One of the questions I’m asked most frequently is: which LED light therapy device reigns supreme for facial treatments?

Allow me to cut straight to the chase—unequivocally, the Celluma LED Light Therapy tool stands above the rest, so let's delve a little deeper into its benefits. 

What exactly does LED red light therapy accomplish, and why do I need to use it? LED light stimulates the mitochondria in cells, energizing them. In fibroblast cells, this boosts collagen and elastin production, leading to firmer, stronger, and more elastic skin, resulting in healthier skin and fewer wrinkles. Need more? How about the fact that LED light has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help in reducing redness, swelling, and irritation in the skin (good-bye puffy eyes!).

As I often like to remind you, in the realm of beauty, we're bombarded with endless devices that promise transformative effects on the skin. But I like to take such claims with a grain of salt. Phrases like “stronger” and “more powerful” are thrown around a lot in this industry, yet in the context of LED red light therapy, a higher intensity doesn't equate to more favorable results (it is also known as low-level light therapy for a reason). The Celluma device is designed to emit between two and 10 joules per square centimeter—precisely because that is the optimal range for skin rejuvenation. Anything below this threshold may be merely ineffective, while exceeding it risks overwhelming your cells, which may actually be counterproductive.  

Also important to note: consistency is key for this tool as well; for visible results, you should commit to at least 25 minutes of therapy thrice weekly. (May I also add that I first started noticing the brand at every major aesthetician’s office.) Plus, the brand’s confidence with their product is real—they don’t pay anyone to talk about the efficacy of their product, nor do they offer discounts. As a final note, I need to reiterate that it can be expensive to go cheap, and cheap to go expensive. Save up and get this tool for $795 and in the long run you will most likely need to spend less on facials, fillers, and foundation. Here’s to your health and your skin.

Cheers!

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Celluma Face
Celluma LITE
Celluma Pro

The AmazingConcealer Is More Than A Stellar Lid Base that Lives Up to Its Name

Are you looking to elevate your eye makeup game?

Whether you love a striking smokey eye or love blending two or three of favorite eye shades together, a reliable lid base is a must-have. It's the secret sauce to keeping your eye makeup flawless all day long, without any creasing or smudging throughout the day or night. My go-to lid base is the water-resistant concealer from Amazing Cosmetics rightly called AmazingConcealer. It's not just a game-changer for creating a flawless canvas; I also love wearing it solo on low-key days on my eye lids. It creates a smoother eyelid look vs having bare lids and now I won’t use anything else. Consider it a makeup essential that stretches a long way with just a dab.

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Enter Code Maryam for a 20% discount

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My Favorite Cleanser of All Time

The glow is real and I am very excited to feature this as the first product profile.

In a world where we're consistently conditioned to believe that higher prices equate to superior quality, this is a phenomenal cleanser that defies all expectations. Yes, Humanrace Rice Powder cleanser is simple, but I assure you, the results are phenomenal. For thousands of years, rice powder has been revered as a skin purifier in Asian skincare traditions. This formulation boasts one of the highest quality rice powders available on the market, and surprisingly, it's offered at a reasonable price point compared to other rice-based powders. Unlike its counterparts, it delivers stunning results for the skin immediately and long-term with each use.  This formulation excels at multitasking; it brightens the skin, evens out tone, and gently exfoliates without causing microtears, thanks to its Kaolin Clay composition that beautifully draws out impurities. Moreover, the inclusion of geranium, sugar, maple, and bilberry extracts aids in gentle skin resurfacing, while snow mushroom extract ensures the skin barrier remains moisturized and intact.

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A Compelling Case For The $640 Face Cream

Sisley’s L’Intégral Anti-Age

It is outrageous how many skincare products promise to deliver the sun, the stars, and the moon to your complexion—when in reality, they are merely resting on their laurels: name brand, celebrity ambassadors, etc., with no high-quality actives or knowledge of which ingredients actually work in skincare.

As the saying goes, it can be expensive to be cheap and cheap to be expensive—so please know that when I recommend a pricey face cream, I’ve tested it (and other products like it) for weeks and I sincerely mean it’s worth every penny. 

 Sisleya’s Anti-Aging face cream is one of those products that bears a hefty tag, but more than  makes up for its cost in efficacy. This cream delivers the firmest, most glowy and even-toned skin you’ve likely seen in years—just one use will give you the glow of someone who just had the best sex of their life for hours. It’s that good. 

 I’ve been using Sisley products since my late teens, and when it comes to genius plant botanical formulations, they are on the cutting edge—with revolutionary formulations that give instant results (and even more in the long run). The Anti-Aging Integral cream harnesses the scientific power of botanicals, with the active plant power of Lady’s Mantle—a potent skin antioxidant—as well as Persian acadia, which is superb for skin regeneration. I can only assure you that unless you are a hyena with some severe acne problem, you will see beautiful results. 

You’ll find yourself cherishing every drop inside this potent jar, and taking it along on all your vacations. Added note: Please remember that for optimal results - your skincare needs to be rotated every few months.

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The Red Lipstick that Rivals My Very Chic All-time Favorite

I hate word “dupe." It’s a word that has been overused for far too long in the overmarketed beauty world. So, in this instance, I want to share a fabulous replica or a delightful counterpart if you will to my cherished Dior #999 Forever Rouge

REVLON’s Color Stay Matte Lipstick Crayon in Ruffled Feathers.

Several months ago, en route to NYC, and in a moment of sheer absentmindedness, I leave my entire makeup arsenal on the plane. Cue frantic searching in the heart of midtown for a quick fix before an important event the next day. Amidst the aisles of a drugstore, with makeup samples scattered like confetti, I found solace in the Revlon section. And there, amidst the chaos, lies a gem: the REVLON ColorStay Matte Lipstick Crayon. Let me tell you about this shade called Ruffled Feathers—it's like stumbling upon a hidden treasure that is delightfully inexpensive. A rich, deep hue with a hint of red-orange allure that rivals my beloved #999. But it's not just the color that won me over; it's the hydration and staying power that truly stole the show. With its matte finish and cleverly angled tip, it glides on effortlessly, no liner necessary.  I may forever be loyal to my #999, but Ruffled Feathers has carved out a special place in my heart—and my makeup bag. It's become my go-to for videos, photoshoots, or simply when I want that extra pop of color without the hassle of constant touch-ups. Trust me, this one doesn't disappoint.

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The Must-Have Beauty Tool You Need

Ulike Air 3 Laser Hair Removal

As an Iranian-born woman, certain characteristics define us - spirited emotion, a deep affection for family, and a penchant for saffron. However, excessive body hair? That's one thing I'm more than happy to pass on, thank you very much. I prefer smooth skin and no hair anywhere other than my head and eyebrows. As a beauty editor, I often receive questions about waxing or hair depilatory creams, which frustrates me. Not at the asker, but because more people don't incorporate a high-quality laser hair removal tool, such as my absolute favorite the Ulike Hair Removal device into their routine. It should be a universal must-have in every woman's beauty arsenal from the age of 18. I say this with sincerity, I believe if this tool had been available earlier, I could have been far more confident and perhaps lost my virginity earlier. Unlike my laser hair removal experiences in 2001, where each zap felt like medieval electric shock therapy, this tool utilizes sapphire cooling technology, making the process virtually painless. Moreover, it's safe for sensitive areas and won't leave you scarred or pigmented like those outdated laser treatments. Trust me, once you have this device in your hands, you'll wonder how you ever lived without it. And did I mention you can enjoy intimacy whenever you want? Just don’t tell your husband.

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The Ultimate Face Primer

As Endorsed by the Elegance of Chic French Women Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentré

In 2024, we’ve yet to emulate the effortlessly chic presence that French women exude. You can call it the French Paradox, where these gorgeous French connoisseurs of style, indulge in butter, endless bottles of Chateau Margaux and afternoon delights, but I also know for a fact that so many of them rely on a beauty product I am very enamored with. Let me just say that the highly prized Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentré Moisturizing Face Primer is worth its weight in gold. It is that the most perfect makeup primer and it is flawless in hydration while keeping your makeup lasting well into the night.

 The makeup and skincare pros seem to agree with my sentiments as I’ve also been keen to notice is a permanent beauty staple the kits of major makeup artists worldwide - even when they're contractually bound to other brands, they still turn to this miraculous primer for flawless finish. I urge you to experience this wonderful face cream, apply it before makeup for a stunning, creamy or even as my French friends like to additionally use it also as their cleansing milk, shaving cream and after suncare lotion too.

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The Clean Beauty Body Oil That Gives Velvet Skin Instantly

OSEA Malibu’s Undaria Algae Body Oil 

In my approach to skin care, I've found that maintaining the vitality of skin below the neck is surprisingly simple with a consistent routine. It begins of course with the basics, a healthy diet rich in Vitamin E, careful sun exposure, and exercising regularly to preserve muscle tone and firmness that in turn support great firm skin.

Next, your skin needs the right amount of exfoliation. I recommend a balanced approach, steering clear of excessive daily brushing that can strip away essential oils. I found myself overwhelmed during the pandemic with the trend of daily brushing, which proved counterproductive to skin health in my opinion as it robs your skin of essential oils if done excessively. Periodically indulging in a luxurious Korean body scrub is excellent and also rejuvenates the skin, and then of course last and not least, incorporating a clean and efficacious body oil adds for moisture and nourishment is for me far superior than using a body butter or cream. I favor body oils for their superior absorption and holistic benefits compared to body lotions. I see the results on my skin and really know what gives the optimal results. Among the plethora I've experimented with, OSEA Undaria Algae Body Oil stands out as my absolute favorite pick. After showering, while my skin is still slightly damp, I generously apply this delicately formulated, clean beauty oil. Its lightweight consistency effortlessly seeps into the skin, leaving behind a trail of revitalization. Enriched with White Lupin flower, this marvel of a product ensures the skin remains supple and resilient. Noteworthy is the brand’s commitment to sustainability; packaged in eco-conscious glass, this oil encapsulates the essence of nature's goodness. Embrace a moment of tranquility post-shower, reveling in the pleasure of this beloved product that has brought me immense joy, and I trust will do the same for you.

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The Best Beauty Balm For Your Skin

The Blue Cocoon by May Lindstrom

An exceptional moisturizing balm that I rely on during hot summers and harsh winters, when my skin faces extreme weather conditions. I slather it on my face every winter night after a day on the slopes or in my hotel room after a beach or boat day when my skin has has endured the inescapable scorching summer heat. This balm is my constant go-to remedy. Formulated with the highest grade of responsibly sourced Blue Tansy, one of nature's most potent antioxidant flower botanicals, it soothes, calms, and repairs my skin. The balm's decadent texture effortlessly melts into the skin, delivering nourishment without any heaviness. It bears repeating that despite protective measures we take such as hats, sunscreen, ski goggles, or face masks, harsh weather conditions, including even ocean reflections, can still leave the skin parched and in need of replenishment.

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The Best Brush For Your At-Home Blowout

Fabulous hair is paramount, right?

I firmly believe that even with the most stunning dress or flawless makeup, if your hair is not on point, your overall appearance suffers.  So, for those of you who blow your own hair out in between salon visits, you know that this at-home task requires several essential elements and tools. Naturally, every blow out aficionado knows that conditioners and heat protectants are crucial, as is the blow dryer itself. However, one often underestimated component is having a well-crafted boar bristle brush. I swear by the MB4 brush from Ibiza. It's a staple in salons worldwide and I see it everywhere from St. Tropez to San Moritz. Thanks to its superior grip—ideal for medium to long hair—and it is easy to grip cork handle, this brush is light and excellent at maneuvering, reaching all angles of the back of the hair too. Boar bristles are unmatched for hair control, and I personally feel from experience that, unless wielded by professionals, round metal brushes can sometimes risk singeing the hair. Lastly, don’t forget that tension is also instrumental to achieving smooth perfection and the grip is fab with this brush.

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The Dream Cream

Revision’s Nectifirm Fights Crepiness, Does Not Disappoint 

The neck is one of the first places on the body to show signs of aging. Why? Because our skin is thinner in this area, there is less muscle support, collagen, and fat—and frankly, more than in decades past, we are constantly glancing up and down at our phones. Sun damage is yet another problem: you don’t wear a hat for your neck, do you? And it doesn’t make sense to put on a turtleneck in spring and summer, right?

To help your neck look its firmest and softest, often acupuncture in the areas where you hold tension in your jaw can provide visible results. Sleeping on your back can also help, as well as using silk pillowcases, which can soften the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, along with a host of other benefits. 

Don’t forget about a key step when it comes to keeping your neck smooth: using a topical like a hydrating neck cream. I have found Revision’s Nectifirm neck cream is fantastic when it comes to firming and preventing sagging. It contains lingonberry extract (known for its potently antioxidant properties) which helps maintain elasticity. 

Side note: Once a week or before a special event, I also like to scrub my skin with a light physical exfoliant before I apply the neck cream. I find it absorbs better. (I have to point out that I typically avoid over-exfoliating, as it can weaken the skin and make it more susceptible to sun damage.) Again, it bears repeating—rotate this every few months with another neck cream product. I switch it out with SkinCeuticals Tripeptide R-Neck Repair Cream, which is also fabulous. 

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Revision’s Nectifirm Neck Cream
SkinCeuticals Tripeptide R-Neck Repair Cream

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