Since we’re stuck at home in quarantine for the foreseeable future, it’s understandable if you’re missing your hair stylist extra hard these days — especially as the weeks pass and your grays start peeking through.
Fear not, though, because hiding your roots and getting gorgeous color in the comfort of your own home has never been easier. Thanks to the many great at-home hair dye products out there — most of which are easy to use and wallet-friendly — you can keep your strands looking fresh as you not-so-patiently wait for the green light to book face time with your stylist.
Whether you want to cover up gray hair (although we fully endorse embracing your grays!) or you want to go for a subtle shade switch-up, not all at-home dyes are created equal. We enlisted the help of Melissa Trujillo, a stylist at the Los Angeles-based Nine Zero One salon, for tips and tricks to get your dream color without leaving the house.
How to choose the best at-home hair color for you:
Whether you’re an at-home hair pro or a first-timer, you’ll want to stick to subtle changes — now is not the time to take your jet black hair to platinum blonde. “If you make a mistake at home, it will cost a lot more money and time in the salon to fix it than a normal appointment would,” explained Trujillo. And with most salons closed due to the coronavirus pandemic, you might be stuck wearing a hat for longer than you’d like.
Trujillo recommends consulting with your go-to pro before picking out a shade, but generally, you’ll want to stay within two shades (lighter or darker) of your current color. “If you are choosing a root color, I would recommend choosing one that is the closest to your natural color. If you are in between colors, you can buy two colors and mix them half and half,” Trujillo told Woman’s World.
Generally, you’ll want to keep it simple — skip toners, glosses, and highlights, and avoid henna dye, which contains metallic salts that sit on the shaft of the hair and are much harder to remove should you decide you don’t love your new look.
Definitely stock up on more dye than you think you need, no matter the length or thickness of your hair. Running out of dye mid-processing is not ideal, so splurge on multiple boxes that you can return or save for later if you don’t use them.
How to apply at-home hair color:
Once you’ve chosen your color, you’ll want to make sure you’ve got everything you need at your disposal to prevent any messes. Be sure to wear an old shirt — preferably a button-down for easy changing — while also tossing an old towel around your neck before you begin.
Lay other old towels, garbage bags, or newspaper layers around your work area, and have an extra pair of gloves on hand to protect your hands. “To avoid staining your skin, apply Vaseline, or some form of cream or lotion to your skin around your hairline to act as a protective barrier,” added Trujillo. Even clear lip balm works in a pinch!
Place two mirrors at the front and back of your head for a complete view, and don’t skip the strand test. Test your dye on a few hidden hairs first, letting it fully process before you commit to an all-over color change.
Then, it’s go time: “To apply at-home color, make sure your hair is properly combed through and apply root color with a bowl and tint brush,” said Trujillo. This will offer a more precise application. She recommends beginning at the hairline and roots, since they require the most color and processing time.
“If applying an all-over color, apply on damp hair, working in sections to make sure all the hair is fully saturated. Comb through” to ensure full coverage. And follow the listed instructions or those given by your stylist to avoid over-processing, which isn’t safe for the health of your hair. Leaving it on too long can damage your strands or alter the color you’re after, so patience is a virtue here.
Lastly, wear a shower cap to keep dye from dripping while it processes, and voilà! Ready to switch things up? Keep scrolling to see Woman’s World’s picks for the best at-home hair color.
Color processing can take the life out of your locks, leading to hair that feels (and looks!) dry, damaged, or downright fried. This permanent hair color contains keratin, a protein that helps strengthen your hair's protective cuticle, preventing breakage and split ends.
It delivers full coverage for grays and has a low-odor coloring experience, thanks to the brand’s Ammonia Control Technology. And with 18 vibrant shades, you’re sure to find the perfect pick for your desired color without sacrificing your hair’s health — what more could you ask for?
Desperate Housewives star Terri Hatcher is covering her grays at home using this kit, and you’ll want to, too, when you hear the all-star list of ingredients it features: keratin, argan oil, and ginseng root will nourish, soften, and strengthen your strands.
Even better than what ingredients it has is what it doesn’t: the “6-free” formula is free of potentially irritating additives like ammonia, resorcinol, parabens, phthalates, gluten, and PPD, so you’ll feel good about using it. Plus, Madison Reed products are certified cruelty-free by Leaping Bunny, a group of animal rights coalitions that created an internationally recognized standard for identifying animal-friendly products.
Whether your hair is feeling like straw due to harsh winter weather or changing hormone levels due to menopause, which can lead to a lackluster texture or dryness, you’ll want a dye that will help bring strands back to life. This at-home color is packed with avocado, olive, and shea oils to protect your hair and leave it feeling softer than it was before. It even comes with a separate ampoule for an added boost of grapeseed oil, giving extra moisture from root to tip.
Grays are an unavoidable part of getting older, but that doesn’t mean you have to live with ‘em. This gel hair dye comes in four shades and is super easy to apply with the nozzle that comes included. Simply apply and let it sit on your strands for 30 minutes, then rinse it out. It works effortlessly to cover grays by blending into your base color, and it’ll also soften strands while it works, thanks to the inula flower extract, which also stimulates keratin production to keep each strand strong. Oat flakes provide protective and antioxidant properties for the scalp and skin.
Protecting your hair’s natural texture is of utmost importance, and this three-step process helps hydrate your hair as you go, thanks to an ammonia-free formula that features jojoba oil and five botanical extracts, including jasmine, nutmeg, and aloe, for endless shine and softness. As an added bonus: it’s safe for use on natural or relaxed hair.
One recent buyer raved about her purchase, writing, “If you are looking for changing your hair color without damage and bleach, this IS the product for you. Because it doesn’t have bleach, it takes a little more product to see more color, but I honestly love this product. The outcome of your hair obviously depends on who did the coloring and how, but it made it super easy for me to do it myself and it looks amazing! My hair is dark brown/ black, and the color turned out great! I got so many compliments.”
Red is one of the trickiest colors to maintain, even under the guidance of your go-to hair guru. That’s because red hair color molecules are larger and heavier than other colors, so dye has a more difficult time penetrating the shaft, which means your vibrant red is subject to fading fast with each subsequent wash.
This ammonia-free formula deposits pigments evenly while protecting your hair from UV rays that can accelerate the fading process. Nourishing silk proteins and keratin leave hair feeling soft and smooth, so it’s a top choice to keep your red hair looking bold and beautiful.
This cream formula comes in a slew of colors, but we’re partial to this one for its rich, multidimensional brunette shades that will provide a perfect mix of tones and highlights that will give you that youthful, natural hue you’re after.
With more than 30,000 reviews online (!), the rave reviews don’t lie. As one recent happy customer wrote, “First time ever using a store bought hair color while my salon is closed due to COVID-19. I purchased the 9N, light blond, left it on for an extra ten minutes, then ran it through my ends for 5 minutes. The color is spot on with my salon color and looks beautiful. I will definitely buy again and may think about continuing to do this on my own from now on and save the money at the salon! The conditioner is fantastic also and left my hair very soft.”
Blondes may or may not have more fun, depending on who you ask, but one thing is for sure — they’re notoriously tricky to nail down when it comes to at-home color. This foam, non-drip formula spreads easily to provide even coverage, saturating strands without streakiness or brassiness.
Plus, it comes with a post-color conditioner for extra hydration, sealing in your new buttery blonde for a flawless look that will turn heads without a trip to the salon.
Reviewers boast about ease of use and how natural the shades look once you’re done, with long-lasting color payoff being the ultimate bonus.
A slew of shades mean the toughest part will be choosing one to try. This demi-permanent ammonia-free formula also has no added parabens, leaving you less likely to experience scalp irritation or dryness. Instead, coconut and aloe vera help soothe and protect strands, making this a gentle and effective way to cover grays and brighten up your color without spending a zillion bucks. It’s fade-resistant and lasts up to 28 washes, making it the perfect way to combat quarantine-induced color woes.
As one recent buyer put it: “I have never colored my hair at home - ever. With everything closed because of COVID-19, I was desperate. I went to Target and my husband helped with the color. I showed him what they do at the salon. I had a paint brush and a plastic container and he covered up all the roots and left the remaining highlights. It turned out great and the conditioner made it shine. Not sure why you don't shampoo afterwards — I am not a color expert, but hair looks really great.”
We’re going to let you in on a not-so-secret secret — women are amazing. And today, on International Women’s Day, we’re celebrating them and all that they do by tipping our hat to some of the incredible females behind some of our favorite fashion and beauty companies. After all, who better than our fellow ladies to know exactly which what clothes and accessories will flatter our figures and make us feel our best and which products will suit our ever-changing skin?
History of International Women’s Day
Though we’ll gladly salute a strong, powerful woman any day, this annual celebration of all things womanhood has become a time-honored tradition. As it turns out, the global movement began well over a century ago, with the first IWD gathering occurring way back in 1911 with a turnout of more than one million people.
Since then, people all over the world have used the day as a way to honor the achievements of women in all areas as we inch towards a future world where true equality is possible.
The Best Female-Founded Fashion and Beauty Brands
There’s no shortage of ways to support women who work hard every single day to make the world a better place, be it at one of IWD’s official events or simply by meeting up to toast your best girlfriends. Our favorite option, however, is to make a purchase that will support a female-founded business,
Not only does it allow for the perfect opportunity to check out some of the best fashion and beauty brands around, you can finally splurge on that gorgeous new lipstick you’re been eyeing or that magical pair of jeans that will look great and feel even better.
We’ve done the legwork of tracking down some of the best comapnies being spearheaded by women, including two fierce luxury brands beloved by Meghan Markle and several size-inclusive lines that will flatter women of all shapes and sizes. Keep reading for Woman’s World’s picks for the best beauty and fashion brands founded by women.
Universal Standard was founded by not one, but two incredible women, Alexandra Waldman and Polina Veksler, who were tired of the limited sizing options available in major retailers. Alternately, their company offers up a full range of clothing that keeps females of all sizes in mind, with its basic tees, blazers, and more. Not only do options span from 00 to 4XL, these genius gals also created Fit Liberty for their customers, a shopping program that takes a woman's regularly-fluctuating body into account (especially as we mature) and allows buyers to exchange their items within a year of purchase should their size change. Returned items are donated to non-profit organizations, such. as First Step and Dress for Success, which give back to homeless and underprivileged women by providing them with the tools and clothing they'll need to re-enter the workforce. What could be better than that?
We already know that Meghan Markle is a fan of the brand’s gorgeous structured leather tote (from $195), and when you see the brand's other bags, jewelry, clothing, and accessories, you’ll want to snap them up, too! Founded by Karla Gallardo and Shilpa Shah, the brand aims to create high-quality goods that buyers will want to hold onto and use for years to come. They also partner with ThredUp, an online consignment store that allows you to cash in on the things in your closet you’re ready to Marie Kondo while adding something new that you’ll love from Cuyana. That shouldn't be too challenging, given the wide array of stunning options for sale in the brand's online shop!
Perfect for mature ladies in the workforce, ADAY provides classic, tailored pieces that will look and feel good whether you’re in the boardroom or meeting with clients after-hours. Co-founders Nina Faulhaber and Meg He work directly with their shoppers to design garments their ladies will love to wear again and again. Case in point? Check out these Portfolio Pants ($190), which feature an ultra-flattering high waist and a loose, tapered leg that will feel comfy and chic no matter the season.
If you’re more into Kate Middleton’s style, look no further than this Duchess of Cambridge-approved New York-based company, which was founded by Jessie Randall in 2004. Featuring a 35-person team of mostly women, Loeffler Randall creates apparel, accessories, and more, but its true bread and butter is the stunning selection stylish footwear and handbags. The expansive line of boots, sandals, and sneakers found here is sure to wow, and you won’t want to overlook the equally beautiful purses for all occasions, either. We're partial to this stunning leather Antoinette shopper tote ($350) and this splashy-yet-elegant Tab clutch ($250), which is perfect for evenings out on the town.
Though Lilly Pulitzer herself is no longer with us, her legacy lives on through her signature colorful designs, which celebrate lively women everywhere. Whether you’re on a tropical getaway or enjoying some leisure time closer to home, the vibrant prints of this Palm Beach-based, resort wear-ready brand will instantly put a smile on your face and a heavy dose of pep in your step.
On March 8th, the brand is partnering with the Women’s Tennis Association to donate 20 percent of sales from its Prosecco Pink Fronds Place Tennis collection to WTA charities that promote youth empowerment initiatives — along with a $50,000 donation to the organization.
Founded by Child's Cup Full (a non-profit initiative that supports women’s economic empowerment based in Zababdeh, Palestine), Darzah is a fashion brand that's focused on ethical, sustainable practices, with the end result being truly unique, beautiful embroidered shoes, bags, and accessories. We're currently swooning over these pictured leather Tatreez flats in Rose ($209), where were hand-embroidered and handcrafted by local female artisans in need of work.
This boutique of items specifically curated for petite women was co-founded by Camille Moroz and Avani Agarwal, who joke that they’re “10-feet tall (combined).” Together, they work to hand-select items made for smaller frames that feature shorter torsos and inseams, narrower shoulders, higher and smaller arm holes, pants with proper ankle-to-leg ratio, and shoes in smaller sizes, all of which are sometimes left out of standard sizing at larger retailers. Sounds like a dream come true to us!
If classic, elevated basics make up most of your wardrobe, you’re likely already a fan of Eileen Fisher and her namesake brand. Fisher's company was founded when she couldn’t find what she was looking for in stores. As the story goes, with just $350 in the bank, she wound up developing a business that was focused on sustainability — no easy feat in a world of fast fashion and trends that tend to come and go with the seasons. Of particular note is the corporation's Modern Workwear collection (from $129) — a well-rounded line of blazers, cardigans, skirts, dresses, pants, and more, that will feel so cozy, you’ll want to wear it on your days off, too!
British makeup artist Charlotte Tilbury has amassed quite an impressive celebrity client list over the years, with Cindy Crawford, Penelope Cruz, Salma Hayek, Sofia Vergara, Jennifer Lopez, Jennifer Aniston, and Julianne Moore all among her famous fans. More than applying makeup for the rich and famous, however, Tilbury has created her own line of luxe products that will make you feel like an A-lister every time you apply them. Beauty mavens especially love her eponymous Charlotte’s Magic Cream ($64) — a powerful blend of ingredients that will soften and soothe dull, dry skin for a breath of new life.
Volition Beauty founders Patricia Santos and Brandy Hoffman are dedicated to developing beauty products that women want and need in their arsenal — so much so that they welcome submissions from fans, which are then voted on by the brand's beauty community before potentially becoming products that the rest of us can buy. Genius, indeed! Offering skincare for the face and body that's tailored to your individual skin’s needs, Volition Beauty is sure to have a product that's just right for you at any stage of life.
With more people than ever paying close attention to the ingredients found in their beauty and skincare products, Lilah B. is having a serious moment. Founder Cheryl Yannotti Foland created the line to help women streamline their beauty routines with vegan-friendly, cruelty-free makeup that's formulated without gluten, parabens, phtalates, sulfates, and synthetic fragrances. Its packaging is as beautiful as it is functional, and its multitasking offerings, like this Divine Duo lip and cheek compact ($46), which can be used on your pucker as a lip tint, on your cheeks as a blush, and as an eyeshadow for a pretty wash of color on your lids, will allow you to seriously pare down your beauty routine.
An added bonus? In honor of International Women's Day, the company is donating 15 percent of all compact sales for the month to Project Glimmer — an organization that hosts gift drives to benefit teenage girls.
There’s a good reason why celebrities such as Jessica Alba, Gwyneth Paltrow, Tracee Ellis Ross, Julianne Moore, Brooke Shields, Anne Hathaway, and more count themselves as fans of Tata Harper’s namesake brand: If she doesn’t feel that a product is perfect, you'll never see it hit the shelves. Instead, she gifts us with the type of luxurious, organic-based skincare and makeup that our skin goes wild for, like the brand’s Revitalizing Body Oil ($115, and one of our favorite body oils) or its Purifying Mask ($72), a crucial part of our daily skincare routine.
Designed with busy modern women in mind by busy, modern founders Lindsay Ellingson and Divya Gugnani, Wander Beauty’s line of cruelty-free makeup and skincare essentials will have you reaching for its goods on-the-go: Ellingson and Gugnani's shared concept of “beauty beyond the bathroom” sees them creating products that will help you maximize your time as you bring them from the office to the airport to girls’ night out. Even ladies of leisure will love their “do-it-all” approach for globally-sourced, mess-free beauty.
When you want your beauty routine to feel like a mini-vacation (who doesn’t!?) you’ll want to scoop up Kopari’s signature line of coconut-infused goodies. Founder Kiana Cabell uses 100 percent pure organic coconut oil — and the nourishing, softening fatty acids that go along with it — as the base for all of her products. To truly pamper your skin from head to toe, try her Bodycare Dream Team ($60), which includes the company’s award-winning Coconut Crush scrub ($39) and Coconut Body Milk ($30), for an intensely hydrating and gently exfoliating duo that will leave your skin smelling heavenly and feeling silky smooth.
This luxury brand was dreamed up by Victoria Tsai, who once struggled with acute dermatitis and sought products that would help heal her skin. When she couldn't find them? She created them. Nowadays, her brand works with scientists both in the United States and in Japan to manufacture formulas that will smooth and soften without irritating sensitive skin — no easy feat, to be sure. In addition to Tatcha's new revolutionary Serum Stick ($48), which we're already loving, Meghan Markle told Allure in 2014 that she really loves the company's Rice Enzyme Powder ($65) for its subtle exfoliating powers. Hey, if that’s the secret behind her signature royal glow, we're definitely sold!
Maggie and Annie Ford Danielson are now at the helm of this beloved beauty brand, which was passed down by the womens' mom and aunt, co-founders Jean and Jane Ford. The family's whimsical packaging and cheeky product names have been catching the eye of shoppers since 1976. Longtime fans especially love the precisely, my brow pencil ($24), which helps to create natural-looking hair, while Woman's World's Senior Commerce Editor, Nicole Briese, said she would be lost without the Roller Liquid Eyeliner ($22), which she swears delivers a perfect cat-eye that even Adele would compliment.
By now, you’re probably all too familiar with the fact that getting older can translate to a whole slew of changes for your skin. It also means that the beauty products you’ve loved for years may not suit you the same way they once did — especially when it comes to eyeshadow. Finding the best eye makeup for older women can be a difficult task, but we’ve managed to track down the best of the best that will allow you to feel gorgeous and glam with every swipe.
How to Choose Eye Makeup for Mature Skin
The delicate skin around our eyes is already thin, and each year, as we blow the candles out on our cake after making another trip around the sun, that skin becomes even more prone to fine lines and wrinkles. That can make it tough to find shadows that will not only look great and stay put, they won’t cake, drawing unnecessary attention to the spots that can make our eyes appear tired instead of refreshed and youthful.
Luckily, you’ll find there are tons of gorgeous options out there that will work for older women once you figure out what to look for. When it comes to texture, you’ll want to stick with matte and cream-based formulas, avoiding anything that’s too glittery.
Don’t overlook shimmery shadows, however, which can provide just enough of a sheen to brighten up your face. “For the eyes, I always hear my older clients say they want to stay clear of anything with a shimmer or sparkle in it. While I agree with the sparkle part, a little bit of shimmer can be nice on the lid. Just avoid the brow bone area,” which can emphasize crepiness and wrinkles, as makeup artist Kindra Mann told Town & Country in 2019.
Choosing shades that will give you younger-looking eyes is equally important. Anything that’s too harsh will enhance dark circles, making you look like you haven’t had your beauty sleep. Browns, for instance, might be popular for a subtle smokey eye, but the yellow and red pigments found within can actually make you look tired. Bone-colored shadows, on the other hand, can be too light, giving away any would-be wrinkles or veins beneath.
Instead, try a shade that matches your skin tone for a soft, natural look. For a bolder beauty statement on date night or for those special occasions, opt for jewel tones, which are universally flattering on most.
How to Apply Eyeshadow
When it comes to eye makeup for older women, how you apply your eyeshadow is every bit as important as the type you’ll wear. You’ll want to start with an eyeshadow primer, which will not only help your shadow of choice go on smoothly, it will remove any discoloration and help keep it put all day long — even if your lids are naturally a bit oily. Pro tip: Your cream or liquid concealer can also serve as a primer on lids, too.
Once you’re ready to move on, reach for a cream eyeshadow ($29.99, Amazon), which naturally has more staying power than other formulas. You can also seal it with a matching powder formula.
Blending is super important to eliminate any harsh lines, so you’ll want to use an eyeshadow brush ($22, Sephora) in a “windshield-wiping” motion to help softly add pigment. Be sure to avoid any pulling or tugging — this can exacerbate existing wrinkles or create new ones.
The Best Eye Makeup for Older Women
Ready to find the eyeshadow you’ll reach for again and again in your golden years?Keep reading for Woman’s World’s picks for the best eye makeup for older women.
Featuring broad-spectrum SPF 15 on top of a silky smooth color payoff, these creamy shadows are formulated with a little extra protection from the sun’s harmful rays. They come in five easy-to-wear, smudge- and crease-resistant shades (Blushing Pink, Candlelit Peach, Exotic Lilac, Smoky Espresso, and Soft Linen), so you won’t worry about it sliding down your lids by lunchtime.
Where to buy: From $5.81 (Originally $6.99), Amazon
Ladies with darker skin tones will love these 19 rich shade options from Maybelline, which come in a silky smooth cream gel formula to help hydrate the skin around your eyes while making them truly pop. Serving up an impressive 24-hour waterproof wear time, this formula is best applied with your fingertips, making it an easy way to get glam on-the-go.
Where to buy: From $9.99 (Originally $19.99), Amazon
This is the palette you’ll reach for when your usual daytime look just isn’t gonna cut it. With a whopping 16 stunnin hues in shades both classic (Earth tone-inspired Profesh, Wine, and Bold fit the bill) as well as trendy (Shimmery Rose Gold and Champagne), buyers love this one for the bold color payoff that lets them get glammed up for a big night out with the girls...or for date night with that special someone. It also boasts chic, compact packaging and a wide range of colors and textures (matte, metallic, satin, and shimmery) that will flatter any skin tone,
Rihanna’s buzzy beauty brand has made waves for being among the most inclusive new brands on the block, so trust us when we say that these stunning palettes do not disappoint for women of all skin tones.
Eight mini palettes feature six complementary shades in each, and the best part is that there’s a snap feature that lets you combine two palettes together, making choosing two among the eight options the most challenging part. Rich, blendable shades in a range from matte to shimmery mean you can enhance those peepers without creasing, flaking, or fallout. One recent buyer between 45 and 54 put it best when she wrote, “Love this eyeshadow set, great colors! Eyeshadow doesn’t crease, and stays in place all day.” We’re sold.
When you still want a hint of shimmer but don’t want to look like a human disco ball, this pretty palette from Drew Barrymore’s affordable beauty line, FLOWER Beauty, is just the ticket. Available in six color combos (10 shadows each) you’re sure to find plenty of shades that suit your tastes. You'll also get a professional-grade eyeshadow brush.
Palettes are perfect for those who like to experiment with their beauty look, since they give you a whole slew of stunning shades at your disposal. This one from IT Cosmetics features 14 luxe shades designed with mature skin in mind. Not only were these beauties developed with the help of plastic surgeons, each gorgeous hue is infused with skin-nourishing ingredients such as hydrolyzed collagen, silk, peptides, acai, green tea, and vitamins A, C, and E, as well as iT Cosmetics’ proprietary No-Tug Technology, so each color will practically glide on.
If you find that bright hues are a bit too bold for everyday wear, give Clinique's cream Touch Base formulas a go. Perfect for that soft, subtle look you love, they won’t smear, smudge, or fade. In addition the Canvas (a creamy nude with yellow undertones) and Nude Rose (a cooler tauper shade) are neutral enough to work as a base primer for use with other shadows or alone for a subtle-yet-attractive look.
While cream shadows are endlessly flattering on mature skin, they can be difficult to deal with in the warmer months or if you're constantly fanning yourself thanks to hot flashes. This eyeshadow, by contrast, goes on effortlessly and stays put no matter what the day brings — it's waterproof formula will even stand up to tears.
Where to buy: From $8.16 (Originally $19.99), Amazon
Milani has four equally beautiful palettes, but we’re especially fond of its Most Loved Mattes collection. This pick features 12 high-pigment payoff options that range from classic neutrals to deep, rich jewel tones, all in a wearable matte formula that suits women over 50 flawlessly.
One recent five-star reviewer couldn’t help but gush over her purchase. She wrote, “I am very fair, with silver hair and green eyes and this palette is just perfect! The colors go so well with my eyes, and really make the green POP! I find that most palettes are warm-toned, and I just prefer cool tones, which is surprisingly hard to find in a palette. These blend so well, last all day and don't crease. I honestly like this palette so well, that I've thought about buying another one just to keep on stand by!”
Boasting a formula that lasts up to eight hours, Bobbi Brown's shadow sticksare the ones you’ll want to have on hand for days where you simply don’t have time to touch up your makeup — or nights when you want to look gorgeous well into the twilight hours. With effortless application that prevents any tugging or pulling around your delicate eye area, you can just swipe it and go. You can also use these to create a perfectly glam smokey eye — ooh la la!
If you’ve got allergies or simply have a hard time finding makeup that won’t irritate your eyes, look no further than this set of 10 coconut-infused mineral shadows, which come in a range of matte pinks, warm nudes, and browns. An added bonus is that these babies are fully vegan and cruelty-free, too.
One recent 66-year-old reviewer put it best when she called this palette the “only eyeshadow for me,” noting that it holds up even during sweaty workouts and days at the beach. “By the way, this is the only all-matte eyeshadow palette I've ever found," she said, adding, "At my age I sure don't need glittery eyelids."
Aside from eternal health and happiness (and maybe winning the lottery), there’s one thing we all want: soft, smooth skin. Unfortunately, attaining it is often easier said than done, especially for those of us in a certain age bracket. Thanks to bodily changes we experience over time that see our skin being depleted of moisture and elasticity, we’re more likely than ever to experience dry, itchy skin that’s akin to a lizard’s. That’s precisely why it’s more or less essential to have the best body lotion for dry skin on hand.
Why does skin get dry as we age?
If you’ve noticed your skin — aka your body’s largest organ — is drier these days, it’s not a figment of your imagination: There could several factors at play. According a study published in Advanced Wound Care in 2013, “skin thins progressively over adult life at an accelerating rate” of about 6.4 percent per decade. What’s more, “a reduction of the natural water and fat emulsion on the skin is observed, as is water content in the stratum corneum” — that’s the outer layer of the skin.
Add in fewer natural oils, sun damage that accumulates over time, and decreased cell renewal, and you have a recipe for rough, flaky skin from head to toe.
The bad news: Mature skin can actually feel drier all year long, even in the warmest months (though winter’s plummeting humidity levels, along with dry indoor heat and too-hot showers don’t exactly help). Even worse, medical conditions, such as diabetes, atopic dermatitis (eczema), psoriasis, and kidney disease can exacerbate the problem.
The good news: We’ve ferreted out not one, not two, but 18 different hydrating lotions that will put the spring back into your skin.
How to Choose the Best Body Lotion
Along with practicing good skincare habits, such as avoiding scalding hot showers, drinking plenty of water, and checking in with your doctor if you feel your dry skin might be connected to a larger health concern, you’ll want to lotion up every day after the shower, when your skin is still damp and thus better able to absorb all of its moisturizing properties.
Ultimately, the best body lotion is the one you’ll actually use each day, but there are a few elements you’ll want to look for in your perfect find.
Typically, gel formulas are the most lightweight and oil-free, so they can be good for those who also suffer from dry skin in the summer months. Lotions, meanwhile, are usually richer than gel formulas, absorbing quickly and easily into skin, so they’re ideal for drier skin types or climates. Creams are the richest of all, and will probably feel the thickest when you apply them. That’s because they’re chock full of oil and water, which join forces to give you tons of hydration.
When you’re shopping, be sure to search for a texture and scent you actually enjoy — body lotion should feel like a luxury to apply, not just another chore on your to-do list!
If you have particularly sensitive skin, you might also want to do a “patch test” before you commit to a whole bottle. Apply a little bit to your chest for a few days, and if you don’t have a reaction, you’ll be good to go. These days, plenty of online retailers have a very generous return policy, so trying out your pick before you purchase is never a bad idea.
Now that you know what you’re on the hunt for, keep reading for Woman’s World’s picks for the best body lotions to keep your skin in tip-top shape all year long.
Nourishing dry skin has never been easier than with this blend of emollients and humectants. It doesn't leave any greasy residue behind and absorbs quickly into hands, feet, elbows, and knees.
Per one reviewer who called herself a “Cetaphil moisturizing cream loyalist,” this stuff is also just as good for the sensitive skin on your face as it is for your body. “This stuff is my go-to moisturizer for life," she raved. "Been using it since a really bad reaction to a face cream and my skin just loves it. It's also perfect because it CAN be used on your face, and not all body moisturizers are like that.”
Featuring buzzy ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, which naturally depletes from our skin as we age, this ceramide-rich cream was developed with the help of dermatologists for a formula that will keep skin feeling silky-soft for a full 24 hours and bolster its natural protective barrier. It's also aces for those with sensitive skin, because it’s free of fragrances and oils, hypoallergenic (that means it’s also free of common allergens, such as parabens and formaldehyde), and non-comedogenic, so it won’t clog pores. No wonder more than 2,500 five-star reviewers — particularly those with skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema — are singing its praises online!
It might be hard to believe, but this budget-friendly buy contains prescription-strength moisturizers that will quickly sink into skin, transforming it from desert-dry to soft and supple — all without the prescription price tag. In addition to the inclusion of Vaseline jelly ointment, which works to lock moisture in, it has glycerin to deliver hydration and pro-lipids to replenish the skin’s moisture barrier. It’s also unscented for those that are sensitive to fragrances.
This body cream, which has a cult-like following, repairs skin by replenishing its essential lipids (natural fats that maintain moisture and strengthen the protective barrier of our epidermis) while also providing hydration for up to a whopping 48 hours after application. It's made from a blend of the company's own prebiotic thermal water, lipid-boosting shea butter, glycerin for intense hydration, and soothing niacinamide (a form of vitamin B3). It’s also paraben- and fragrance-free and non-comedogenic, plus, it’s allergy- and dermatologist-tested, so it's safe for people of all ages — even babies, who have the most sensitive skin of all.
Applying your daily moisturizing lotion should feel like a brief respite from your hectic day-to-day, so why not choose one that's not only packed with nourishing ingredients, but can tansport you to a beachside oasis, if only for a few moments? With a long list of key hydrating ingredients, such as vitamin F, provitamin B5, kahai oil, organic camelina oil, moringa seed oil, everlasting flower wax, and shea butter, this tropical pick will instantly soothe dry, itchy skin. Buyers also love it for its sumptuous coconut and white cedarwood scent, however, which will allow you to retreat into your own private skincare oasis. Other fragrances, including grapefruit and verbena, bamboo and jasmine, and ginger and neroli scents are also available.
If it’s eczema you’re battling, you’ll want to have this clinically-proven pickon hand to help heal your skin during flare-ups. Enriched with colloidal oatmeal (a proven skin-soother, especially for those with eczema) and ceramides to enhance and restore skin's protective barrier, this cream was awarded with the National Eczema Association's seal of approval for its ability to effectively relieve some of the condition's most common symptoms, such as itchiness, redness, dryness, and irritation. It’s also allergy-tested, steroid-free and fragrance-free, so they'll be no worry of further inflammation or irritation due to harsh ingredients. In short? It's a win-win all the way around!
This luxe, vegan-friendly lotion reverses, corrects, and protects against visible signs of aging, leaving your skin looking — and feeling! — as soft and beautiful as it did in your younger years. Its essential fatty acids and ceramides help to seal in moisture on the driest parts of your body, such as your elbows, knees, and heels, while a blend of botanicals, including rose hip, safflower, and avocado complex, soothe inflammation. Meadowfoam and flax extracts also work to strengthen the skin's natural lipid barrier and neutralize free radicals — those icky particles in the environment that contribute to the aging process of our skin.
Where to buy: From $8.49 (Originally $9.69), Amazon
If you’re experiencing dry skin, but don’t like the feeling of a cream or lotion, look no further than thisrefreshing gel formula, which absorbs fast and leaves the epidermis plenty hydrated without an ounce of heaviness. This gel's lightweight-yet-supple feel comes courtesy of hyaluronic acid, which will not only moisturize skin that's as dry as the Sahara, it can improve appearance over time.
One reviewer boasted that it’s like “like liquid gold in a bottle for my diabetic skin,” adding that it "hydrated my diabetic alligator skin the first time I applied it. Even the rough and chapped dryness on my feet and ankles was softened and looked hydrated and healthy, and that was like a miracle to me. The chapped, sore skin on my hands was healed within a couple of days as well. I wish I could bathe in a vat of this wonderful body gel cream.”
This lotion's powerhouse blend of ingredients, including ceramides, pro-vitamin B5, and shea butter, pack a serious punch when it comes to providing instant relief for itchy, irritated skin at a price that won’t break the bank. In fact, plenty of five-star reviewers gush about its ability to do just that. Writes one: "This Curel was the first anti-itch lotion I tried and I've kept on using it because it works!!"
When you want skin to smell delicious (we don’t blame you!), you can't go wrong with this citrus-scented bliss body butter, which combines shea butter, coconut oil, algae extracts, and other soothing ingredients to keep you well-moisturized, to boot. As an added bonus, it’s also PETA-certified as cruelty-free, so it’s never tested on animals.
For dry, inflamed skin that just won’t quit, you’ll want to break out the big guns — i.e. this rich, luxurious cream from EltaMD. Hyaluronic acid (which speeds up skin's healing process while also helping it to retain moisture), mango seed butter (which calms inflammation and soothes irritation), and niacinamide (which boosts circulation, lightens discoloration, and clears blemish spots) are all found within, making you wonder how you ever lived so long without a bottle of this in your bathroom.
One reviewer over 70 years of age with sensitive, mature skin tried everything to clear up a persistent spot of dry skin, until her dermatologist recommended this pick. “I applied a small dab to that spot once or twice a day for about a week, and it completely healed, never to return. This is a pretty special body creme," she wrote. "I've since used it on other dry places, such as feet and it works magic!”
If you want a product that's rich enough to help heal dry skin, yet isn’t greasy or oily, you’ll love Kiehl’s decadent Crème de Corps. A slew of antioxidant-rich ingredients like squalane (a potent hydrator), cocoa butter, almond oil, aloe, avocado oil, and beta-carotene will lubricate and moisturize even the scaliest of users without an über-thick consistency. Reviewers say it takes a few minutes to sink in, but once it does? "It has been a lifesaver."
Buyers can’t stop boasting about Eucerin's repairing lotion, which rids skin of any crepey or scaly feelings that may come from a loss of moisture due to aging. With ceramides to strengthen barriers that lock in moisture and a fragrance-, dye-, and paraben-free formula, it's tough on dry skin, yet gentle enough for everyday use.
This budget-friendly buy also has an added bonus in the form of its large, easy-to-use pump, which one 93-year-old Amazon shopper said she loves for her achy fingers, wrists, and hands.
When you’re battling skin conditions like atopic dermatitis and eczema, relief can feel far out of reach. This buttery soft balm works instantly, however, replenishing lost moisture while relieving itch and irritation with each and every use. Boasting some important hydrators (think glycerin and mineral oil) and no preservatives, parabens, dyes, or fragrances (all of which can exacerbate irritation) this formula has been given the National Eczema Association seal of acceptance. An extra bonus comes in the form of the bottle's airtight packaging, which blocks allergens, bacteria, pollutants, or air that could compromise safety and efficacy. That means every time you pump out some lotion, you’ll only be getting the good stuff.
Severely itchy, dry skin types will want to get their hands on this creamy-yet-lightweight, fragrance-free formula, which boasts a non-sticky, non-greasy feel. It’s tested by dermatologists and is hypoallergenic, making it a top choice among reviewers with serious skin conditions.
“By far, in my opinion, this really is the best lotion on the market for people that have eczema or psoriasis," one Amazon shopper gushed. "I've literally tried everything out there from over the counter products to prescription, creams, ointments, and pills.”
Stopping to smell the roses wherever you are has never been so sweet, thanks to this gorgeously-scented body butter. Infused with rose essence and camellia essential oil, as well as an ultra-hydrating blend of shea, cocoa, and mango butters, just one whiff of its light, floral fragrance will be enough to brighten your day. It's slim, tube-style packaging also makes it a great choice for battling dry skin on-the-go, since you can keep it in your purse for a quick hit of moisture no matter where your day takes you.
For less than the cost of your daily latte, you can help soften your dry skin with St. Ives' soothing body lotion. The stars of the show here are oatmeal and nourishing shea butter, though it's also got a healthy dose of soybean oil and plant-based glycerin besides. What's more , its gentle scent will make your daily moisturizing routine feel like a little slice of luxury — something we could all use with our increasingly-hectic lifestyles!
Fans love this French brand both for its luxurious decadence and next-level hydration, and this body lotion, which features 15 percent shea butter and calendula extract, along with apricot oil extract for an extra layer of moisture, is no exception. Additionally, it's chock-full of antioxidants and vitamin E that will protect your skin from harsh elements in the environment that can seep in and cause premature aging and skin damage, making it a great pick for all seasons.
There are many joyous parts of aging, but let’s be real — sagging skin isn’t one of them. As we get older, we experience natural changes in our skin’s elasticity and moisture levels that extends beyond the skin on our face to our all-too delicate décolletage area: Yep, we’re talking about saggy boobs. The answer? A good old fashioned breast-firming cream.
Why do boobs sag?
As you mature, you may notice that your breasts just don’t look the same as they did in your younger years — especially once menopause hits. According to Healthline, that’s largely due to hormonal changes. As our estrogen levels begin to dip, the skin and connective tissues of our breasts begin to lose hydration, and thus, elasticity. As such, you might notice your breasts are decreasing in firmness and fullness over time, making your best bra work overtime to give you back some of that all-too-important lift.
In fact, researchers at UCLA discovered back in 2013 that a woman’s breast tissue ages even faster than the rest of her body, with human genetics professor Steve Horvath noting that “healthy breast tissue is about two to three years older than the rest of a woman’s body.”
That means you might lose fullness in your chest even before you notice it on your face. Yikes!
How Breast Firming Creams Can Bring Back Your Lift
While there are plenty of surgical options that will bring back your once-perky chest, going under the knife is a big decision that’s not without risks of its own.
Luckily, there is an alternative. If you’re looking for a bit of an added boost without the hassle (and cost!) of medical procedures, breast-firming creams can bring a subtle, gorgeous lift to your décolletage. Though they’re not magic potions, you’ll definitely notice a difference in your chest’s firmness, giving your confidence ample room to soar.
Whether you’re battling stretch marks or just a bit of overall sagging, these creams are a wallet-friendly, non-invasive way to gently lift your bust area. Keep reading for Woman’s World’s picks for the best breast-firming creams on the market so you can continue to look — and feel! — your best.
This silky serum might have been created with new moms in mind, but women at any life stage can reap its bust-boosting benefits. Mustela's gel formula is made from plant-based ingredients, including avocado peptides, which promote skin elasticity, and centella asiatica — an herb that helps to increase firmness. It has a delightfully light floral scent, with subtle notes of rose, bergamot and plum and glides on smoothly, without leaving behind any residue or greasiness. It’s also hypoallergenic and free of icky ingredients such as sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), parabens (estrogen-like preservatives), phthalate (a plasticizer), and phenoxyethanol (a preservative), making it perfect for the delicate skin on your décolletage.
Wrote one happy shopper: "Works well, firms the breasts without making them larger or sore."
A perkier bust within four weeks? Reviewers say it's possible with daily use of this five-star collagen-rich cream, which helps to plump your assets. It's formulated with avocado oil, a healthy fat that hydrates and nourishes the skin, elastin, which, you guessed it, rejuvenates skin’s natural elasticity, and aloe vera, which helps to amp up the appearance of your breasts with phytoestrogens that can emulate the characteristics of estrogen — that same hormone we start losing right around the time we hit menopause.
Raved one shopper: "I absolutely love this product! I have only been using it for 2 weeks and can already tell its working. I would definitely recommend it to someone else looking to make their breast fuller and perkier!"
Another agreed, writing, "
I've been using this cream twice a day since I received it and I already noticed the lifting and plumping effect. All I do is apply and massage for 30 seconds. It dries vary fast and you can get dressed right away."
You won’t want to sleep on this night cream, which is designed to help firm and tighten your chest while you get your zzz’s. This ultra-rich formula (which is miraculously not at all greasy!) helps to reshape your cleavage thanks to a plant-based complex of active ingredients that are ace for fullness and firmness. It also contains chronodyn, a cell-energizing ingredient that also helps firm your skin. All that hard work while you’re off in la la land? That’s what dreams are truly made of!
This lightweight gel formula works just like your favorite push-up bra, delivering an immediate lifting effect to your chest — but without any of the achiness of hours spent fighting an uncomfortable underwire. (Can you say "win?") Ingredients include Vu Sua extract (a Vietnamese fruit extract that literally translates to “milky boob” that helps to visibly firm, tone and smooth) and oat sugars to instantly give you a firmer bust silhouette that will only get better with long-term use.
Gushed one fan, "I have been using this product for several years and it is the best to deliver very favorable results. Would highly recommend! Lifts and firms!"
You don't have to pay a fortune for a perkier bosom: Drugstore brand Gold Bond makes a chest-firming creamthat can help give you that youthful boost you’ve been missing. Your neck and chest will appear more supple and hydrated thanks to its nourishing blend of watermelon rind extract, lentil extract, apple extract, and other plumping moisturizers, and stress response proteins will lock that moisture in, so you won’t have to worry about the effects wearing off before you even step outside for the day.
Add in a proven punch of salicylic acid (BHA) to help exfoliate rough, uneven skin, and you’ll be left with a smooth, soft chest that you’ll look forward to showing off.
With a blend of ingredients such as jojoba, cocoa butter, and coconut oil, which will nourish and soften your sensitive chest area, plus collagen-enhancing avocado oil, sweet orange oil, vitamin E, and more, this all-natural cream from Honeydew will shape and enhance your bust line while also preventing the dreaded appearance of stretch marks and sagging — just the ticket for mature skin.
It can also reduce the appearance of scars, leaving your skin looking and feeling soft and beautiful from chin to chest.
Aside from its super cheeky name, this refreshing and moisturizing gel cream formula boasts a proprietary complex of ingredients that formulated to amplify your assets — no visit to the surgeon required! Manufactured compound Volufiline can trigger the growth of cells, in turn leading to a more plump and fuller-looking bust line, while Matrixyl 3000 (a peptide) helps to tighten and lift. This cream also has hyaluronic acid — the buzzy, moisturizing ingredient of the moment, plus amino acids to support collagen production.
This product promises to direct your bosom in the right direction with a slogan of “Aim North, not South!” While we love its cute messaging, we love its powerful, multi-action formula of rich omegas and workhorse antioxidants, including CoQ10, even more. Your delicate chest area will get the loving care it deserves without any “nasties,” i.e. icky ingredients, such as parabens, petrolatum, mineral oil, artificial colourants, sodium laureth, lauryl sulfate, xenoestrogens, phthalates, and PEGs, which can mess with your body’s natural hormones. Instead, you’ll be left with the tight, toned upper area you once had, all thanks to the help of this smoothing cream.
Assured one user: "I'm 70 years old, have been using the product for several years because it has kept my breast and chest looking youthful."