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Curél Restorative Aging Care Plumping Hydrating Gel Essence Review

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Curél Restorative Aging Care Plumping Hydrating Gel Essence Review

If your skin often feels tight after cleansing, or you’re looking to boost hydration without adding another heavy cream into your routine, a hydrating essence could be exactly what’s missing. I’ve been testing the Curél Restorative Aging Care Plumping Hydrating Gel Essence, here’s what you need to know.

What is Curél Restorative Aging Care Plumping Hydrating Gel Essence?

Curél Restorative Aging Care Plumping Hydrating Gel Essence
Curél Restorative Aging Care Plumping Hydrating Gel Essence

The Curél Restorative Aging Care Plumping Hydrating Gel Essence is a lightweight, fragrance-free essence designed to be applied immediately after cleansing. It helps replenish moisture, supports the skin’s natural barrier and leaves skin feeling plump, comfortable and ready for the rest of your skincare routine.

Developed with dry, sensitive and mature skin in mind, it slots beautifully between cleansing and serum, adding an extra layer of hydration without feeling sticky or heavy.

Key Benefits

  • Deeply hydrates and helps plump the skin
  • Supports the skin’s natural moisture barrier
  • Lightweight gel texture that absorbs quickly
  • Leaves skin feeling calm and comfortable
  • Layers seamlessly underneath serums and moisturisers
  • Fragrance free and suitable for sensitive skin
  • Ideal for dry, dehydrated and mature complexions

Key Ingredients

One of the things Curél does exceptionally well is barrier-supporting skincare. The formula includes ingredients that help replenish hydration while maintaining healthy-looking skin.

Highlights include:

  • Ceramide Care technology to help support the skin’s moisture barrier
  • Glycerin to attract and retain moisture
  • Eucalyptus Extract to help optimise the skin’s natural ceramide function and improve hydration

Together, they work to leave skin feeling softer, smoother and much more comfortable.

My Review

Curél Restorative Aging Care Plumping Hydrating Gel Essence pump packaging
Curél Restorative Aging Care Plumping Hydrating Gel Essence pump packaging

I’ve become a huge fan of layering hydration into my skincare routine, and using an essence after cleansing is one of my favourite ways to prep my skin before applying serums and moisturiser. The Curél Restorative Aging Care Plumping Hydrating Gel Essence is designed to do exactly that, delivering an instant boost of hydration while helping to support the skin barrier.

Texture & Application

This is one of my favourite things about the Curél Restorative Aging Care Plumping Hydrating Gel Essence.

Curél Restorative Aging Care Plumping Hydrating Gel Essence Texture
Curél Restorative Aging Care Plumping Hydrating Gel Essence Texture

The texture sits somewhere between a lotion and a lightweight gel. It has that lovely fluid gel consistency that spreads effortlessly over the skin and absorbs surprisingly quickly.

I simply dispense a couple of pumps into the palms of my hands and gently press it over my face and neck immediately after cleansing. Within seconds my skin feels hydrated, comfortable and perfectly prepped for serum and moisturiser.

It doesn’t leave behind any tackiness, so it layers beautifully with the rest of my skincare routine.

The Hydration & Plumping Effect

This is where I think the Curél Restorative Aging Care Plumping Hydrating Gel Essence really comes into its own.

After applying it, my skin feels noticeably softer and more supple. It gives that lovely “skin has had a drink” feeling that I look for from a hydrating essence, without making my skin feel overloaded with products.

I especially notice the difference when my skin is feeling dry or a little depleted, as it adds that extra layer of hydration that helps everything afterwards apply beautifully.

How It Compares To My Favourite Luxury Lotion

My all-time favourite product in this category is La Mer The Treatment Lotion*, which I absolutely love. It has that beautiful calming, almost cocooning effect on the skin, and it’s been my benchmark for this type of product.

What surprised me about the Curél Restorative Aging Care Plumping Hydrating Gel Essence is how similar the experience feels. The texture has that same lightweight gel-like feel, and it gives skin that immediate feeling of comfort and hydration.

It doesn’t quite have the same effect on redness or visible irritation that I get from La Mer, but given the huge difference in price, I wouldn’t expect it to. What Curél does brilliantly is deliver gentle, barrier-supporting hydration at a much more accessible price point.

Is It Good For Sensitive Skin?

This is where Curél really shines. If your skin is dry, sensitive or prone to feeling uncomfortable after cleansing, I think this is a beautiful product to consider. It feels incredibly soothing and helps support the skin barrier, which is something I think becomes increasingly important as our skin changes with age.

Rather than being an aggressive treatment product, it is all about restoring comfort and maintaining healthy-looking skin. You can read more about the products I reach for when my skin needs some TLC in my Skincare Products I Use When My Skin is Tight, Dry, Reactive guide.

How My Skin Looks & Feels After Using It

After using the Curél Restorative Aging Care Plumping Hydrating Gel Essence, my skin feels calmer, softer and more hydrated.

I love that it doesn’t just sit on the surface of the skin. It feels like it creates the perfect base for the rest of my routine, helping my serums and moisturiser glide on more smoothly.

It’s one of those simple but effective skincare steps that makes my whole routine feel more luxurious.

Final Thoughts

The Curél Restorative Aging Care Plumping Hydrating Gel Essence is one of those products that quietly makes a difference. It isn’t a complicated extra step, but it gives my skin that additional layer of hydration and comfort that I really notice.

If you love the idea of a luxury treatment lotion but don’t want to spend luxury prices, this is a fantastic alternative. It has a beautiful texture, feels soothing on the skin and is particularly lovely if your skin needs hydration and barrier support.

For dry, dehydrated and sensitive skin, I think this is a brilliant addition to a skincare routine. For more recommendations, you can also read my guide to Skincare Products I Use When My Skin is Tight, Dry, Reactive.

Where to buy it

Curél Restorative Aging Care Plumping Hydrating Gel Essence is £19.50 for 140ml and it’s available now via the links below:

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you use Curél Restorative Aging Care Plumping Hydrating Gel Essence?

Apply the Curél Restorative Aging Care Plumping Hydrating Gel Essence after cleansing and before your serum and moisturiser. Dispense a few pumps into your hands, gently press over the face and neck, then continue with the rest of your skincare routine.

Is Curél Restorative Aging Care Plumping Hydrating Gel Essence good for dry skin?

Yes, this is particularly suited to dry and dehydrated skin. The lightweight gel texture delivers a boost of hydration without feeling heavy, making it a lovely option for anyone who needs extra moisture and barrier support.

Is Curél Restorative Aging Care Plumping Hydrating Gel Essence suitable for sensitive skin?

Yes, Curél is a brand known for creating products designed with sensitive skin in mind. This essence feels very gentle and comforting, making it a good option if your skin often feels tight, dry or easily unsettled.

Can you use Curél Restorative Aging Care Plumping Hydrating Gel Essence with other serums?

Absolutely. One of the things I love about this type of product is how easily it layers. Apply it after cleansing, then follow with your favourite serum and moisturiser.

Is Curél Restorative Aging Care Plumping Hydrating Gel Essence anti-ageing?

The product is part of Curél’s Restorative Aging Care range, which focuses on hydration and supporting the skin barrier. While hydration is key for skin that looks smoother and more youthful, it is best viewed as a product that helps maintain healthy, comfortable-looking skin rather than a dramatic anti-ageing treatment.

25 Best Designer Handbags To Keep Forever – How To Shop In 2026

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Known for: The Lady Dior bag and the Saddle bag, both launched in the 1990s, are two renowned handbag shapes that still remain iconic symbols of the Dior legacy and continue to captivate fashion enthusiasts worldwide

“I love the Book Tote because it works for almost any occasion—running errands around town, transporting your laptop for the office commute, or as a super-chic travel bag,” says fashion stylist and consultant MaryKate Boylan. The sturdy, canvas tote was introduced into the brand’s offerings in 2018 and has remained a constant, reinterpreted seasonally in a bevy of embroideries, patterns, and sizes. It’s a go-to for many who want a hardworking handbag, with that slight designer flair.

Best Woven: Ulla Johnson Charlotte Woven Leather Shoulder Bag

Behind the brand: Ulla Johnson launched her eponymous brand in New York City in 1998. The line of ready-to-wear and accessories focuses on artisanal production and craft, all inspired by the designer’s love for travel.

Known for: The handbag category has quickly become customer favourites since its introduction in 2013. Styles like the Alma, an everyday tote in leather, and raffia bags, such as the Gio, offer practicality, with a stylish twist.

“I first fell in love with Ulla Johnson handbags when I got my hands on this cylindrical, open-top tote a couple seasons ago, and I get so many compliments on it — it’s definitely the most stylish bag I used to tote my laptop around in,” says Glamour US contributor and Ça Marche founder Laura Lajiness Kaupke. “After seeing these saddle brown, woven styles on the runway, I knew I had to add to my collection this year. It’s just detailed enough to make it feel special, but still perfectly practical for everyday use.”


How we tested the best designer bags

Image may contain Clothing Pants Coat Adult Person Accessories Bag Handbag Blazer Jacket Animal Bird and Jeans

The Glamour fashion team is no stranger to the designer bag market, being keen investors themselves. Looking at classic wishlist bags, plus new-in/new season and lust-worthy styles, we’ve compiled an edit of 34 styles that we genuinely believe are worth the investment – whether it’s 2026 or 2066. Looking at everything from composition to craftsmanship, practicality and style credentials, consider this all you need to know before you treat yourself.

You can read more about how we test things here.

Why you can trust us

It’s all well and good us telling you where to invest your hard-earned money, but we’ve gone the extra mile by showing you why this list of designer bags is the best. From literally testing them ourselves, to calling in the experts who know all about data, resale values and demand, we’ve gone as in-depth as possible to save you from a truck load of research and letting you skip right to the fun part: the buying.

Angie’s Luxe Kutz Hair Tips

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Photo Credit: IG: angieluxekutz

“A trim is  a cut . It’s called shaping. Hair shaping, or hair cutting.”

I had the pleasure of sitting down with Master Hairstylist Angie Kerr of Luxe Kutz Studio.

Luxe Kutz Studio is located in East Flatbush , Brooklyn, NY.

She specializes in short cuts, pixies, and bobs.

“Not all short cuts are pixies.” she says.

She warms up the conversation with some tips about hair care, and hair styling.

Beauty Salon  terminology :

Hair Scissors are called Shears .

Screenshot 20260702 205445 Instagram
Photo Credit: Pelement.com

“I clean up the ends with my shears” says Angie

Tip 1: The hair needs to be completely dry to achieve desired results.  Especially for pixie cuts .

Tip # 2: Semi Permanent black, or blue black color for a healthy salon desired look.

Angie strongly believes in technique over product. But, still have some faves that will make your hairstyle come out looking lovely.

Angie says, “If you don’t have the right technique, the hair may not perform well”.

“The hair cut is the foundation of the style, and what sets everything apart .”

The cut needs to be right to achieve a good mold . The mold should be nice and flat .

Angie  believes in always taking classes, and  continual learning throughout your career as a stylist.

She also does  short hair cuts on  natural hair as well. First,  she leads with a consultation  to see if the desired look can be achieved.

Screenshot 20260702 205351 Chrome
Photo Credit: JuPoppin.com

Tamara O: Is the hair scissors just for trims? or do you use them for more styles?

Angie Kerr: Hair scissors are called shears in the beauty world.

I use shears for cleaning up the ends . A trim is  a cut . It’s  call it shaping, Hair shaping or hair cutting

I utilize clippers , shears,  feather razor, and thinning shears. Every client is different, and depends on what their hair needs.

T.O:Can you walk me through a day in your life as a hairstylist?

A.K: Start off with a consultation to analyze hair and scalp. If you see any area that  may need to be camouflaged because of thinning.

A day in my life starts off with a client coming in. They may need a pre-cut, relaxer and shampoo , mold the hair when it’s dry. Chin down under the dryer so back and sides can be nicely laid . Shape (cut) the hair properly, and style after.

T.O:. What are some of your favorite products ?

A.K.: Dudleys!  For relaxers, I like Affirm relaxers ,  and P Element  Soft So relaxer by Patrick Bradley.

Screenshot 20260702 195753 Instagram
Photo Credit: IG: angieluxekutz

Ju Poppin foaming lotion created by Master Stylist Gillian Garcia.

I use Pixie Glam Palm curling irons which are specifically tailored for pixie styling .

I use Patrick Bradley products  for lighter and fluffy hair.

Clients  with very thick dense hair. I use Gillian’s Ju Poppin  foaming lotion to  sculpt.

Thank you for your time and expertise Angie, Until Next time!

Signing out, Tamara O.

Shay Mitchell Gets Why Rini’s Sheet Masks for Kids Made People So Mad

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I received the products ahead of my interviews with Song and Mitchell and can confirm they are, indeed, excellent. My eight-year-old daughter who delights in bath or shower time (hair washing is another story) gravitated immediately to the body wash deeming it softer and nicer than the unscented bar soap she is usually handed. The lotion soothed her little eczema flares. The barrier cream may be formulated with children in mind, but I think any fellow perimenopausal moms with temperamental, often husk-dry skin may appreciate it even more.

Parents who are seeking out more information on the ingredients in their kids’ products will likely appreciate the formula facts tab on the Rini website. It highlights some of the key selling points for the line, along with high-level results from studies done with the brand’s products. (However, there is minimal information on the methodology and it’s unclear if these studies were done by the brand or a third-party, so they may be best taken with a grain of salt.) .

Song is proud of Rini’s stringent testing policies: They require raw material documentation from their manufacturer in Korea and test both the individual ingredients and the final formula for heavy metals, including lead, to ensure they are appropriate for sensitive and allergy-prone skin. Their testing includes EpiOcular evaluations to ensure everything is gentle around the eyes (which, any parent will tell you, is always a big pain point), HRIPT patch testing for skin compatibility, and pediatrician-led, in-use testing on babies and young children ages 0-5. Mitchell and Song’s goal is for parents to be able to purchase the products for their kids, worry-free. “We’re going to earn trust by solving real parenting needs, not by creating new ones,” says Mitchell. “If parents can, in the future, think of Rini as the brand that makes daily kids skin care, which can be so confusing, feel safer, simpler and also more fun, then we’ve done what we set out to do.”

Song thinks one silver lining from the sheet mask controversy is that it inspired some parents to look more closely at all the products their kids might be buying with that allowance at Sephora. My own hope as a parent of an almost tween is that it also might inspire broader conversations about how beauty culture, much like diet culture, can have a toxic and lasting effect on how we see ourselves. About the dangers of positioning beauty as a value and equating consumerism with self-care. About how, for every generation, our appearances have become something to alter and regulate and filter and optimize and, most importantly, monetize. Could a social media-stoked controversy about kid’s sheet masks be a tipping point for all that please?

When my daughter sees me doing various beauty and grooming rituals, from penciling in my eyebrows to shaving my legs to putting on a face mask, she’s first curious and then almost inevitably she asks: will I need to do that too? The question always stops me in my tracks and makes me pause to consider when it comes to beauty, what we need, versus what we want and what we feel obligated to do. I know that I’d like my eight-year-old to see any beauty products whether it be a sheet mask or nail polish or lip gloss, not as a necessity, not as self-care, but as a form of expression and fun and play. I gave her and her two cousins (a boy aged 10 and a girl, almost 4) the Rini animal sheet masks to put on one night last week. They all gingerly smoothed the masks over their growing faces, commenting about how they loved them and how weird and cool and slimy they felt. Then they looked in the mirror, then at each other, and they laughed and started embodying the animals pictured in the masks they had on their own faces. These kids’ immediate instinct wasn’t to make this a beauty treatment, but simply to play. And that felt, to this parent at least, very age appropriate.

Best OLAPLEX Shampoos for Every Hair Type – OLAPLEX Inc.

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Key Takeaways

  • Each of OLAPLEX’s four shampoos is formulated to serve specific hair needs, from everyday cleansing to removing buildup and brightening lighter tones.
  • Curl-specific formulas help define, hydrate, and strengthen curls and coils.
  • Choosing the right OLAPLEX shampoo depends on your hair type, texture, and styling goals. For example, clarifying formulas help remove buildup for oily or product-heavy hair, while curl-specific options deliver hydration and definition for curls and coils—ensuring there’s a targeted solution for every routine.
  • All formulas support healthier-looking hair through OLAPLEX Bond Building Technology®.

Jump to

Back to Basics: Our 4 Must-Have OLAPLEX Shampoos

When it comes to hair basics, nothing is as elementary as shampoo.

The right formula doesn’t just cleanse, it sets the foundation for stronger, healthier-looking hair.

OLAPLEX shampoos go beyond cleansing by helping repair damage at the bond level while supporting the hair’s unique needs, from everyday maintenance to clarifying, toning, volumizing, and now targeted curl care powered by 3D Bond Shaper™ Technology for stronger, hydrated, more defined curls.

Not all shampoos are created equal, which is why our lineup is designed to deliver customized hair care for every hair type, texture, and goal.

Nº.4 Bond Maintenance® Shampoo

Our best-selling, original shampoo, OLAPLEX Nº.4 Bond Maintenance® Shampoo repairs, strengthens, and nourishes all hair types. Allure 2024 Readers’ Choice Award winner, Nº.4 repairs damaged hair, split ends, and frizz. It leaves hair easier to manage and gives it shine, all while making it healthier with each use. Nº.4 is color-safe and proven to reduce breakage while strengthening any hair type. This is your ‘everyday’ shampoo, for use whenever you shampoo.

Nº.4P Blonde Enhancer™ Toning Shampoo

Nº.4P Blonde Enhancer™ Toning Shampoo repairs, hydrates, and brightens all blonde, lightened, and grey hair without dulling the hair or stripping it. This highly concentrated purple shampoo cleanses, tones, and repairs with a rich lather that neutralizes brassiness and boosts brightness after one use. It’s scientifically proven to make hair 3x brighter compared to top purple shampoos and can be used 2-3 times weekly or as often as needed to neutralize unwanted brassiness.

Nº.4C Bond Maintenance® Clarifying Shampoo

Buildup makes healthy hair dull, discolored, dry, and unmanageable. Nº.4C Bond Maintenance® Clarifying Shampoo optimizes hair results with a surface-level deep cleanse that removes chlorine, product buildup, excess oil, hard-water minerals, heavy metals, and pollutants. Most clarifying shampoos leave hair rough and wiry, while Nº.4C restores shine and leaves you with hair that’s soft with airy volume, vibrant color clarity, and a clean scalp. For best results, use weekly to remove buildup.

Nº.4D Volume Detox Dry Shampoo

Nº.4D Volume Detox Dry Shampoo is a healthy-scalp dry shampoo with light-as-air dry cleansing technology for scalp and hair that feel just washed without buildup or powdery residue. Nº.4D leaves hair looking first-day fresh with weightless body, and it’s clinically proven not to clog follicles. Use our award-winning dry shampoo on any hair type or texture. We recommend applying Nº.4D between wash days or on clean, dry hair to amplify first-day styles.

Nº.4CURL Bond Shaper™ Hydrating Curl Shampoo

Introducing the new Nº.4CURL Bond Shaper™ Hydrating Curl Shampoo designed specifically for waves, curls, and coils.

Powered by 3D Bond Shaper™ Technology, this advanced formula delivers multidimensional curl-care to help strengthen, define, and hydrate curls from the inside out.

What it does:

  • Strengthens curls with every wash for improved resilience
  • Delivers non-stop hydration all week long for soft, manageable hair
  • Enhances definition for more sculpted, uniform curls
  • Helps reduce frizz, even in high humidity
  • Improves detangling for easier styling

Experience stronger, more defined, hydrated curls with each wash – with hydration that lasts and protection that helps maintain curl length over time.

Pair with the Nº.5CURL Bond Shaper™ Hydrating Curl Conditioner for optimal hydration, definition, and frizz control.

How to Choose Your OLAPLEX Must-Have Shampoo

The best way to choose the right OLAPLEX must-have shampoo for you is to know your hair’s needs, texture, and styling goals:

For Everyday Repair & Maintenance

Choose OLAPLEX Nº.4 Bond Maintenance® Shampoo as your daily go-to for consistent everyday cleansing. Finish with OLAPLEX Nº.5 Bond Maintenance® Conditioner to further strengthen and reinforce bonds for more resilient hair and prevent future breakage.

Brighten Blondes, Silvers, and Greys

Blonde, silver, and grey hair can benefit from a shampoo that combats brassiness and brightens light tones. That means, you should grab Nº.4P Blonde Enhancer™ Toning Shampoo. Pair it with Nº.5P Blonde Enhancer™ Toning Conditioner. This nourishing conditioner is formulated with violet toning agents. Nº.5P neutralizes unwanted yellow tones root-to-tip while softening, detangling, and strengthening your hair. You’ll see brighter, shinier, more evenly toned blondes and grays with each use.

Remove Buildup and Impurities with a Deep Cleanse

If your hair needs a deeper cleanse to remove product buildup and other impurities (all without stripping color), it’s time for Nº.4C Bond Maintenance® Clarifying Shampoo. Reveal your healthiest hair and clear the way for your other products to do their best work with Nº.4C.

For Curls, Coils, & Texture Definition

If you have curly, coily, or textured hair, Nº.4CURL Bond Shaper™ Hydrating Curl Shampoo is designed to support your natural pattern with targeted strength, hydration, and definition.

Powered by 3D Bond Shaper™ Technology, it helps to strengthen and reinforce curls from within, and enhance curl shape and definition over time.

Pair it with the OLAPLEX Nº.5CURL Bond Shaper™ Hydrating Curl Conditioner for added hydration and slip, as well as weekly mask treatments to support long-term curl health.

Enjoy a Just-Washed Feel and Extend Your Hairstyle

Whether you want to keep your hairstyle looking fresh or add volume to day-one hair, Nº.4D Volume Detox Dry Shampoo is the OLAPLEX must-have shampoo for you that makes good hair days good for your scalp.

Find Your Perfect Shampoo Match

No matter your hair type, OLAPLEX offers a shampoo designed to support healthier-looking hair from first wash.

Take our Hair Quiz  to find your ideal OLAPLEX routine—including the best shampoo for your hair type and texture.

The 100-year-old secret behind your favourite skincare ingredient

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Glycolic acid has been made the same way since the 1930s.

The process starts with formaldehyde. It’s cheap, it’s efficient, and it’s been the industry standard for nearly a century — which is why most formulators have never questioned it, and most beauty shoppers have never heard about it.

In this episode of Green Beauty Conversations, Lorraine Dallmeier sits down with Vikram Pandit, co-founder and CEO of Phycus Biotechnologies, the Canadian company that has just launched what they claim to be the world’s first commercially available fermentation-derived glycolic acid.

The conversation covers why two chemically identical molecules can behave differently on skin, what’s actually lurking in the impurity profile of conventional glycolic acid, and what the published irritation data means for formulators.

If you’ve ever used a glycolic product and assumed the source didn’t matter, this episode is worth your time.

Listen here

“The manufacturing process matters — and it produces a better end product.” — Vikram Pandit, Phycus Biotechnologies

In this episode with Vikram Pandit, you will hear:

  • What glycolic acid actually is and why it’s become one of skincare’s most talked-about ingredients. Glycolic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid first developed by DuPont in the 1930s, now found in everything from drugstore toners to high-performance peels. It had a major resurgence during COVID when The Ordinary’s 30% glycolic acid peel went viral in the US, and the market has been growing at around 6% year-on-year ever since.
  • Why nearly all commercial glycolic acid is made from formaldehyde. The conventional manufacturing process dates back almost a hundred years and uses formaldehyde or monochloroacetic acid as starting materials. While the final molecule is chemically identical regardless of how it’s made, the impurity profile differs — and Phycus’s research suggests those trace differences have measurable consequences for skin.
  • The irritation study that changes the terms of the natural versus synthetic debate. Phycus ran IL-1α irritation studies comparing Purolic Acid (their biobased glycolic acid) against conventional petrochemical glycolic acids and published the results in SOFW journal. The difference in irritation markers was statistically significant — and Purolic Acid also tested as less irritating than leading fruit extracts.
  • How Phycus sources its feedstocks and what the lower-impact credentials actually rest on. The company uses upcycled FSC-certified wood and waste molasses as fermentation feedstocks, closing the carbon cycle rather than drawing on petrochemicals. Vik claims a 40% reduction in carbon footprint versus conventional processes, backed by a full lifecycle analysis.

Key takeouts include:

  • Chemically identical does not mean functionally identical. Two samples of glycolic acid with the same molecular structure can have different impurity profiles depending on how they were made, and those impurities can produce measurable differences in how skin responds. The same variation exists between different petrochemical suppliers, which is why choosing reputable ingredient sources matters regardless of which version a formulator uses.
  • The fermentation-derived version outperformed fruit extracts too. Using fruit extracts as a workaround to avoid petrochemical glycolic acid is common, but Phycus found Purolic Acid showed lower irritation markers than leading fruit extracts. Vik’s explanation is that fruit extracts are inherently mixed and less pure, carrying colour, odour, and a range of other organic acids alongside the glycolic acid.
  • Greenwashing has made consumer education harder. Glycolic acid has long been marketed as a “fruit acid,” implying a natural origin, when almost all commercial glycolic acid is petrochemically derived. When Phycus tells potential customers it has produced the world’s first natural glycolic acid, the response is often “I thought it already was.” Vik’s wish is that formulators and beauty shoppers would understand the difference between an ingredient that occurs in nature and one that’s actually made from natural sources.
  • The industry is starting to put measurable metrics behind lower-impact claims. The shift Vik observes among larger brands is away from vague “natural” storytelling and towards quantified environmental metrics — full lifecycle carbon costs, traceable supply chains, and verified certifications rather than marketing language.
  • For indie brands, this is a differentiation opportunity — if the price works. In a crowded alpha-hydroxy acid market, where most products look similar, being able to cite published irritation data behind a fermentation-derived glycolic acid is a concrete point of difference.

Meet our guest: Vikram Pandit, Founder of Phycus Biotechnologies

Vikram Pandit - Phycus BiotechVikram Pandit - Phycus BiotechVikram Pandit is the co-founder and CEO of Phycus Biotechnologies, a Canadian company developing fermentation-based alternatives to petrochemical ingredients for the cosmetics industry.

He holds a PhD in Metabolic Engineering and a BASc in Chemical Engineering from the University of Toronto, where he spent six years as a graduate researcher before founding Phycus in 2017.

The company’s flagship product, Purolic Acid, is the only commercially available fermentation-derived glycolic acid, produced using microorganisms and renewable feedstocks including FSC-certified wood and waste molasses.

Find out more about Phycus Biotechnologies:

Related episodes:

Thank you for joining us for this episode of the Formula Botanica Green Beauty Conversations podcast. If you enjoyed listening, please share, subscribe and review this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or Youtube so that more people can enjoy the show. Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Facebook and Instagram.

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Why Psoriasis Biologics Don’t Work the Same for Everyone

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If you’re living with psoriasis, you’ve probably heard stories of someone whose skin completely cleared after starting a biologic while you’re still searching for the treatment that works for you. New research suggests there may be a reason for that.

As reported by Dermatology Timesa study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology suggests psoriasis isn’t exactly the same disease from one person to the next. While it may look similar on the surface, what’s happening inside the immune system can vary from patient to patient, which could help explain why certain medications work better for some people than others.

Biologics, including medications like Skyrizi, Cosentyx, Tremfya, Bimzelx and Humira, are injectable or infused medications that target specific parts of the immune system responsible for the inflammation that causes psoriasis. They’ve transformed treatment for moderate to severe psoriasis, helping many patients achieve dramatically clearer skin. But they aren’t one-size-fits-all, and finding the right one can sometimes take time.

In the new study, researchers looked at skin samples from people with chronic plaque psoriasis and found something unexpected. In addition to the well-known inflammatory pathway that most current biologics target, some patients showed signs of additional inflammation that today’s treatments may not fully address. Researchers also found evidence that the skin barrier itself may be more disrupted in certain patients than previously understood.

That doesn’t mean current biologics aren’t effective. In fact, they’re still considered the gold standard for many people with moderate to severe psoriasis. But the findings suggest there may be more than one “version” of psoriasis happening beneath the surface, which could explain why one medication works incredibly well for one person but delivers only modest results for another.

The research could shape how physicians approach psoriasis care and help dermatologists to better predict which biologic is most likely to work before treatment even begins, making the process far less trial and error. It also uncovered several potential biomarkers, or measurable signs in the body, that could one day help personalize treatment even further. More research is needed before those findings can be used in everyday practice, but they offer another step toward more individualized care.

For patients, the message is reassuring: If one biologic doesn’t give you the results you’re hoping for, it doesn’t necessarily mean another won’t. As researchers continue to unravel the science behind psoriasis, the future of treatment looks increasingly personalized.

Adapted from original reporting by Dermatology Times.

9 Best Hydrating Serums 2026, Tried & Tested

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What are the most effective hydrating ingredients for skin?

Dermatologists agree that components like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides are considered highly effective for lasting hydration. “Popular hydrating serums encompass a variety of ingredients,” shared Dr Yulia.

“Hyaluronic acid is a potent humectant, capable of holding water molecules and providing intense hydration. Glycerin is also a humectant that attracts and retains moisture, helping to keep the skin hydrated,” said Dr Mahsa.

And if your skin calls for a more intense hydrating serum, make sure to consider formulas containing beta glucan. “Beta glucan is 20% more hydrating than hyaluronic acid. Beta glucans are derived from bacteria, fungi, seaweed, and grains – like oats.  It is a humectant that also has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, meaning that it will help to restore and repair skin barrier,” shared Dr Christine Hall

Dr Christine also recommends opting for a serum that’s formulated with ceramides: “Produced by our sebaceous glands, ceramides are lipids, molecules or fats that ensure that our skin barrier remains strong and prevents transepidermal water loss; simply put water loss through the skin barrier.”

Dr Yulia also shared that “aloe vera is great for soothing and hydrating, niacinamide improves the skin’s barrier function, and panthenol attracts and holds moisture.”


How to choose the right hydrating serum for your exact skin type

“It’s crucial to consider individual skin concerns and preferences when selecting a hydrating serum. Hyaluronic acid serums are generally suitable for all skin types as they provide hydration without being heavy,” shared Dr Mahsa.

“Niacinamide serums are beneficial for oily or acne-prone skin, as they can help regulate sebum production. Dry or sensitive skin may benefit from serums containing ceramides, glycerin which offer deep moisturising and soothing properties,” she added.

Dr Yulia also pointed out that sensitive skin types can also benefit from ingredients like aloe vera and chamomile to calm irritated skin. “When selecting a hydrating serum, individuals should avoid products with potentially irritating ingredients, such as artificial fragrances, alcohol, or high concentrations of certain acids,” Dr Mahsa commented.

According to Dr Mahsa, it’s important to keep in mind that such ingredients may “exacerbate sensitivity and counteract the hydrating effects”. Plus, it’s also essential to check for comedogenic ingredients, especially if you happen to have oily or acne-prone skin, in order to prevent pore clogging.


How to apply a hydrating serum for best results

When it comes to application, the good news is that it’s far less complicated than you’d think. Dr Mahsa advises the following: “After cleansing and toning, apply the hydrating serum before heavier products like moisturisers or creams. This allows the serum’s active ingredients to be absorbed into the skin more effectively.”

“The recommended order is cleanser, toner (if used), hydrating serum, treatment serums (if used), moisturiser and sunscreen during the day,” shared Dr Yulia.

That said, if you’re planning on using more than one serum, Dr Mahsa recommends applying them in order of consistency, so from thinnest to thickest. “The frequency of application depends on the product and individual skin needs; however, using a hydrating serum once or twice daily is common for optimal results. Adjust the frequency based on how your skin responds.”

Looking to take your skincare routine to the next level? Be sure to check out our guides for the best retinol serums, best hyaluronic acid serums and best vitamin C serums.

The Curl Code: 10 Commandments for Healthy Curls

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Curls don’t “behave”. They don’t conform. They simply don’t follow the same rules straight hair does  — and they shouldn’t have to.

Instead, curls have a set of standards all their own: ten of them, at the very least. Built around their unique science of porosity, hydration, weight, and protection,  wendy our founder at Iles Formula is of the philosophy that curls are not a problem to be managed, but a fibre to be lived in, and through.

This is the Curl Code.

The most important fact to begin with is knowing curls are porous by design. They thirstily drink up moisture, and will lose it just as quickly. They demand more from a ritual than any other hair type — more hydration, more weight, more care between washes, more protection from the elements that pull them apart.

Wendy Iles approach for Iles Formula  starts here: curls are not a category. They are a science. So Wendy a curly girl herself, treats them accordingly.

I. Curls require a ritual, not a routine.
A ritual is intentional. A routine is rushed. Your curls feel the difference.

II. Hydration is non-negotiable.
Every curl product, every day, in service of one thing.

III. Never brush curls dry.
A dry brush breaks the curl pattern. Detangle curls when wet, with the Iles conditioner, and with patience.

Close-up of wet curls fanned across a woman's face — detangling curls without friction
IV. Towel-dry without friction.
Terrycloth roughs the cuticle. The ILES Hair Turban Towel presses water away without disturbing the curl.

V. Detangle with intention, not force.
The ILES Comb glides through wet, conditioned hair for even distribution, no breakage. Start at the ends to detangle and gently work your way up.

Iles Formula Comb beside a pool with an iced drink — curl detangling ritual

VI. Less product, more ritual.
One luxe formula beats four mediocre ones every time.

VII. Curls are a science. Treat them accordingly.
Porosity, weight, hydration — every choice should answer to all three.

VIII. Curls live between washes.
Curls aren’t just maintained in the shower. Hit them with a spritz of Curl Revive Spray in the mirror every morning to keep their form and shape.

Iles Formula Curl Revive Spray pressed into golden beach sand

IX. Protect what the sun depletes.
Curls are the first to feel the season and the last to recover from it. UV fades the colour, heat strips the moisture, salt and humidity unravel the shape. Protection is not the final step — it is the one that holds all the others.

X. Embrace the curl. Don’t manage it.
For too long, curls were something to be tamed, controlled, corrected. Wendy’s  Iles Formula philosophy is the opposite: learn the fibre, give it what it needs, and let the curl be what it already is, beautifully.

Jones Road Tinted Moisturizer Review: Is Just Enough Enough?

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Last Updated on July 7, 2026 by omgbart

How I missed writing a review of the Jones Road Just Enough tinted moisturizer is beyond me. Then again, last year was a blur. We’re halfway through this one and I am perpetually catching up. But since I plan on getting better at sharing my favorites, consider this an overdue writeup and one worth waiting for. Because if I still love something months after its launch, that tells you everything. It’s borderline hall of fame material.

Jones Road Just Enough tinted moisturizer tube with screw cap next to it

What is Jones Road tinted moisturizer about?

You know I adore What The Foundation. And recently, I became completely obsessed with the Your Skin foundation stick. So where does that leave Just Enough tinted moisturizer exactly? It’s an excellent question. What Jones Road did with the face coverage formulas was create a wardrobe of options. And I’m here for it. These three takes on how to correct, conceal, and embrace our imperfections offer the perfect situationship depending on climate, skin type, coverage needed, etc.

Just Enough tinted moisturizer by Jones Road swatched in shade beige

Just Enough: point of difference

While What The Foundation is focused on adding moisture and providing light coverage, Just Enough strikes the perfect balance between a moisturizer and pigment play. Your Skin foundation stick prioritizes coverage. So if you’re after a true to definition tinted moisturizer, picking up a tube of Just Enough is what you need to do.

Jones Road Just Enough tinted moisturizer coverage on mature skin

About Jones Road coverage

If you’re new to Jones Road, the brand is known for subtle coverage. It’s usually sheer, often buildable. Most importantly, it’s natural-looking. So much so that your skin keeps looking like your skin, just better. It’s softly revitalized with a dose of moisture, unified with hues that connect the imperfection dots, blurring them softly instead of caking pigment on top.

Your complexion looks radiant because the formulas are breathable. The finish is also usually radiant or satin-like, never flat, matte or chalky. Lastly, the product never oxidizes (as in turns orange on my skin) for which I am eternally grateful.

Jones Road tinted moisturizer swatch in shade beige

What’s inside Just Enough: the INCI highlights

The ingredient list is short. Twenty entries, no fragrance. Water leads, followed by two lightweight alkanes that give you silicone-style slip without the residue. Glycerin sits third, so the hydration claim is not decorative. The texture tricks are smart too. Lauroyl lysine adds that silky, powdery-soft feel while a clay-derived thickener keeps the pigments evenly dispersed, which is part of why the finish blurs instead of streaks. Sodium hyaluronate and vitamin E show up at the tail end, garnish-level but welcome.

The pigments are titanium dioxide and iron oxides. The titanium dioxide is listed as a colorant, not a UV filter, so it is not doing sun protection work. And iron oxides are famously stable, which tracks with my zero oxidation experience.

Shade swatches of Jones Road foundation stick and cream

Just Enough is exactly that: just enough

The Jones Road tinted moisturizer comes in 16 shades which mirror the What The Foundation shades pretty well. I am ‘beige’ in both. If you read my other JRB reviews before, I do note that for some reason, Just Enough in beige is a teeny bit warmer than WTF in the same shade. With that said, it still looks great on me and cancels the red in my skin just enough to keep the final result natural.

I cannot emphasize this enough, take The Shade Quiz on the JRB site. It’s an incredibly helpful tool if you’re unsure of what to blind buy. It’s matched me correctly every single time.

Jones Road tinted moisturizer is moisturizing enough
This looks warm here… It’s not this warm irl, the light must have not cooperated…

Do you need a moisturizer under Just Enough?

I’m going to say no but that’s me. If your skin is dry, you may want to moisturize first and use Just Enough as your tint. Since the formula does not contain any UV filters, I found that it layers really well over all my everyday sunscreens. Please note that I mostly use European formulas with chemical filters. I worry that a conventional mineral SPF would make this tinted moisturizer pill. Luckily, many brands here in Spain offer incredible SPF sprays (super fine mist style) that work great over this tinted step.

Using Just Enough tinted moisturizer with a brush

How to apply Just Enough tinted moisturizer

Your fingers are the best way. Since I usually spot treat my complexion with Just Enough, I do use the Skin Brush to blend it in. This way, more product is actually pressed into my skin (aka the red patches) vs melting into my sweaty fingers. I also rotate between the Skin Brush and Daily Brush because I have some facial hair, and the blending around my beardline is always significantly better when using a brush.

You may want to check out my review of the JRB makeup brushes here.

Jones Road Just Enough tinted moisturizer before and after

WTF vs Just Enough vs Your Skin

Lately, I have been using the foundation stick a lot. It’s the newest formula and it’s blistering hot, so my product layering during the day is also capped at 2, max 3 including sunscreen. I love wearing WTF out to dinner in the winter months to give that candlelit glow to my skin. But I reach for Just Enough when I’m in a rush or when I travel. Nothing beats the convenience of a tinted moisturizer and Jones Road yet again, delivers.

$44 (50ml) at jonesroadbeauty.com


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