Every Essential Oil You Need This Season, According to an Expert

Essential oils are a do-everything, natural beauty-lover’s dream! These mega multi-taskers can do everything from enhance mood and sooth stress to fight illness and boost beauty. And this time of year, when we’re all running from one festive occasion to the next (with little to no downtime), who doesn’t need a little pick-me-up. With the help of fragrance expert and artnaturals Executive Manager, Mary Delgado, we’re rounding up the essential oils you need this season.

1. Eucalyptus:Feeling like you’re coming down with something? Before you start popping Sudafed, try a DIY cold remedy or an at-home facial steam with eucalyptus. Its anti-inflammatory and herbaceous aroma will help de-stuff and clear congestion.

2. Lavender:The holidays are full of festivities. Sometimes all this excitement can leave you in desperate need of some quality ZZZs. Lavender is known for its relaxing benefits (AKA it can help deliver a seriously restful nights’ sleep). Diffusing lavender oil in the evening will imbue your home with a sense of calm. Mix up a lavender lullaby spray (a few drops of lavender essential oil with purified water) and spritz it on your pillow to sail you straight to dreamland.

3. Peppermint:When late nights and booze are involved, hangovers tend to ensue. Whether your headache is brought on by partying, parental stress or pretty much anything else, peppermint oil can help. Simply, combine a few drops of peppermint and lavender oil and rub into temples in a circular motion. We’re not saying you should toss out Advil altogether, but if there’s only space for one, we’d pick peppermint oil.

4. Tea Tree:The holidays are full of photo opps. The key to keeping your complexion camera-ready at all times? Tea tree oil combats blemish-causing bacteria, guaranteeing your skin stays blemish-free all season (and beyond). All that’s left to do is grab your selfie stick and get to snapping.

5. Frankincense:Get in the yuletide spirit with the Wise Men’s wonderfully aromatic gift. With its complex, earthy scent and ability to increase spiritual awareness, frankincense is perfect for high vibe skincare. Add a few drops to your go-to body lotion to enhance your spiritual connection and your skin. Looking for a holiday gift for your New Age bestie? A frankincense oil perfume with crystals is sure to delight.

6. Cinnamon:The alluring, slightly spicy aroma of cinnamon screams wintertime! Cinnamon essential oil (which BTW is far more potent than the dried spice) is prized for its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial abilities. Combine with a few drops of a carrier oil (like jojoba or sweet almond) and add it to your bath. Turn on some tunes and let this ancient wonder work its health-promoting magic.

7. Rosemary:Want your locks to look their best for all your get-togethers? Try adding rosemary essential oil to your fave shampoo. Be sure to give your scalp a good massage to help stimulate the follicles. Not only will it improve your tresses, but your mood too!

Looking for more natural remedies? Follow us on Pinterest!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

From social media feeds packed with lifestyle influencers to stacked shelves at stores like Sephora and Ulta, there's no shortage of skincare products being shoved in our faces on a daily basis.

Ever since the development of targeted products like oils, serums, and creams, plenty of people have embraced a multi-step skincare routine, too.

The problem is that while using high-quality products can help aging skin appear more youthful and healthy for years to come, applying them in the correct order is just as crucial for maximizing their effectiveness.

So, whether you're just starting an anti-aging regimen or want to refine your current one, here's the ideal skincare order to combat aging.

Here's every step you need for your anti-aging skincare routine!

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1. Cleanse

The first step in any good skincare routine is cleansing. In the morning, opt for a lightweight cleanser that's gentle and water-based to freshen up your skin. This option from CeraVe is great for most "normal" skin types. Or, at night, you can use an oil cleanser to help remove makeup and sunscreen from throughout your day.

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2. Exfoliate

Once you're finished cleansing, you'll want to exfoliate, which is key to maintaining radiant skin. By getting rid of dead skin cells, exfoliating regularly will speed up skin turnover, reduce the appearance of wrinkles, keep your pores clear, and enhance the absorption of your anti-aging skincare products.

You can choose between chemical exfoliators, such as glycolic or lactic acid serums, which contain alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), or physical exfoliators, which use gentle abrasives like sugar or coffee to buff away dead skin. We like the La Roche-Posay Ultra-Fine Scrub for Sensitive Skin!

Target

Peels and wash-off masks — like this option from LOOPS — also fall into this category and should always be applied to clean skin. This is particularly important for chemical peels since they require a specific pH level to properly exfoliate, meaning layering them on top of other products may reduce their effectiveness.

To cash in on the benefits of exfoliation without going overboard, do this step two to three times a week, either in the morning or at night. Keep in mind that over-exfoliation can damage your skin barrier.

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3. Apply Serums

Next, move on to applying your serums. These lightweight formulas contain high concentrations of active ingredients designed to combat wrinkles, boost collagen, and increase overall skin health.

For the best anti-aging benefits, we recommend using a vitamin C serum in the morning to brighten your complexion. The Olay Super Serum (one of our anti-aging faves!) has Niacinamide, Vitamin C, Collagen Peptide, Vitamin E, and Alpha Hydroxy Acid — covering a ton of bases for you with one product!

Later, at night, use a retinol serum to encourage cell turnover and reduce fine lines. It's important to note that if you're using retinol, sunscreen should always be applied because it can make your skin more sensitive to the sun's rays.

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4. Moisturize

After serum application, you can help lock in hydration and seal the benefits of your previous products by putting on moisturizer. You can search for moisturizers that are formulated with active ingredients like ceramides, collagen, or hyaluronic acid to strengthen your skin barrier. The Kiehls Ultra Facial Cream is definitely a moisturizer favorite among B+C staff!

During the daytime, opt for a lightweight moisturizer that has SPF to protect against UV damage. And before bed, you can lather on a richer anti-wrinkle cream that has peptides or ceramides to support skin repair.

If you happen to use facial oil, you can always mix a few drops into your moisturizer to create a quicker skincare routine. Otherwise, apply facial oils after you moisturize.

Sephora

5. Use Eye Creams

Last but not least, eye cream is a critical final step for any good anti-aging skincare routine. The delicate skin around your eyes is typically the first to show signs of aging.

Use a lightweight formula that's hydrating but doesn't feel heavy during the daytime. And just like your evening moisturizer, you can apply a richer eye cream at night. Looking for something to use? The Summer Fridays Jet Lag Overnight Eye Serum is one of our favorite eye creams!

When selecting an eye cream, look for products with hyaluronic acid to hydrate and plump or retinol to smooth fine lines and increase collagen production. Plus, for an extra boost, wear an eye mask a few times a week to refresh tired eyes.

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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Trader Joe’s always knows exactly how to get us excited for new products – and this time, it’s rumored that the grocer is bringing back their viral Mini Canvas Tote Bags in four brand-new colors that are all perfect for spring! Speculated to hit stores sometime next month, you’re not going to want to miss this TJ’s drop.

Here’s everything you need to know about the return of Trader Joe’s Mini Canvas Tote Bags for spring 2025.

@traderjoesobsessed

Trader Joe’s fan account @traderjoesobsessed first circulated the rumor that the Mini Canvas Tote Bags are set to return to Trader Joe’s this spring.

“Rumor has it that the pastel mini canvas bags will be here in April. Usually, they do release these on a Wednesday. How excited are you for these colors? I can’t wait to customize them!” the caption reads.

Another source, @zuncola, hinted that the totes could hit stores as early as April 8 or 9.

@traderjoesobsessed

It appears there will be four different colorways in this season’s Mini Canvas Tote Bag drop: pink, blue, green, and purple. But they’re not your ordinary pinks, blues, greens, and purples – per the rumors, they’ll come in pastel hues that all look stunning. From carrying your quick grocery hauls to toting each and every picnic essential you’ll need this spring, these bags get it all done in sheer style.

Trader Joe’s

In the past, the Trader Joe’s Mini Canvas Tote Bags have been a limited-time item that garnered plenty of attention from shoppers, even sparking a massivefrenzy inside stores with customers racing to snag their own tote. Some TJ’s locations have also placed a buying limit for bags like these, typically 1 per customer. Based on the reception of the rumors for this year, you’ll likely want to plan when and how you’re going to get your hands on one.

Instagram

Tons of Trader Joe’s fanatics sounded off in the comments of @traderjoesobsessed’s post about the rumors of the Mini Canvas Tote Bags’ return:

“Stoppppp no way!! 😱😱” one person wrote.

‘Yes! These will make great bags for Easter gifts,” another said.

“Looks like I need to buy camping gear cause I'll be in that line before sunrise 🤩,” one more fan commented.

Reddit

In previous years, the Mini Canvas Tote Bags went for $2.99 too $3.99, and we expect this pastel-filled drop to cost about the same.

Reddit

Though there’s no official release date for the mini totes, they’re speculated to hit shelves sometime in April 2025, possibly the 8th or 9th. Stay tuned here for more updates!

Subscribe to our newsletter to stay on top of all the best Trader Joe's news!

This post has been updated.

Just like how our relationships, careers, and hobbies shift over time, so should our skincare routines.

Since our skin naturally changes as we get older, what worked for us during high school and college probably isn't as effective now. So, if you're 40 or over, it's time to refresh your skincare regimen.

At this point in your life, your routine should center around protecting your skin barrier, staying hydrated, and maintaining an even tone. And if you also want to minimize fine lines, that's totally okay.

There's no shortage of products out there, either, but it's the right ingredients that will help you maintain a youthful complexion. So, here's exactly what beauty products and skincare you should use if you're in your forties or older.

Scroll to find out which skincare you should definitely use if you're 40+!

1. Sunscreen

Sephora

Sunscreen is non-negotiable at any age, but especially if you're getting older. Not only does it protect your skin from harmful UV rays, which can lead to skin cancers, but it also prevents visible signs of aging like wrinkles, dark spots, and lower skin elasticity.

For the best protection, pick out a broad-spectrum sunscreen to shield your skin from UVA and UVB rays. Make sure to wear it every single day, even if you're just going about your daily activities.

2. Retinol

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Next up is retinol, a form of vitamin A that's one of the most researched and impactful ingredients if you're looking to reduce skin aging signs.

It can smooth fine lines, treat dark spots or hyperpigmentation, and improve skin texture. Moreover, this skincare ingredient can help unclog your pores and prevent breakouts! Need we say more?

You can buy retinol in over-the-counter products or stronger, prescription-strength formulas. If you're new to this product, though, it's best to start slow. Use it a couple of times a week as you let your skin adjust because it can cause irritation or peeling in the beginning.

Additionally, retinol should only ever be applied at night since it increases sensitivity to the sun.

3. Niacinamide

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Niacinamide, otherwise known as vitamin B3, is a favorite in the skincare world. It can reduce fine lines, even out skin tone and texture, and boost skin elasticity.

Plus, this ingredient may calm down redness while brightening your complexion and encouraging moisture retention.

That's why it's a particularly great choice for people with dry or sensitive skin. It works well with other active ingredients like retinol and vitamin C as well, meaning it can easily be incorporated into your routine with serums.

4. Vitamin C

Sephora

Speaking of vitamin C, this antioxidant also works wonders when it comes to brightening your complexion and dealing with hyperpigmentation. If you have sun damage and dark spots or dark under-eye circles, vitamin C can reduce their appearance.

To get the most out of this ingredient, add it to your morning skincare routine. You can apply a vitamin C serum or cream first before putting on moisturizer and sunscreen.

5. Caffeine

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Another way to give your skin a pick-me-up is caffeine. This antioxidant has a tightening effect on the skin and could lessen the appearance of sun damage. Not to mention, it can reduce puffiness and brighten around your eyes.

Buy a caffeine-infused eye cream (we love this one!) and incorporate it into your morning regimen to give your skin an energizing boost.

6. Hyaluronic Acid

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If you're looking to hydrate and soothe irritated skin, hyaluronic acid (HA) is the way to go. Despite having "acid" in its name, it's very gentle and attracts moisture to your skin, ensuring it stays plump and smooth.

Hyaluronic acid is versatile in that it can be used in the morning or evening. The next time you're at the store, search for moisturizers, serums, or sunscreens that include it as an ingredient. Or, put on a hyaluronic acid serum before other treatments, like retinol, to lock in moisture.

7. Peptides

Sephora

Peptides, which play a key role in increasing collagen production, are naturally found in our skin. Some topical peptides may help temporarily relax winkles; meanwhile, others promote skin turnover for a fresher complexion.

You can find peptides in everything from serums and moisturizers to toners, too, making this ingredient very convenient to add to your skincare routine.

8. Ceramides

Sephora

Finally, ceramides are critical for keeping your skin barrier well-hydrated and strong. They lock in moisture for up to 24 hours, protect against irritation, and improve overall skin texture. So, ceramides are considered a must-have in any skincare regimen.

Look for ceramides in cleansers, moisturizers, and sunscreens to work them into your routine.

Looking for more beauty advice? Be sure to sign up for our newsletter so you never miss a thing!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

The only thing better than spending two hours with your favorite fictional characters? Spending 7 hours with them! Cruel Intentions (you know, the 1999 classic starring Reese Witherspoon, Sarah Michelle Gellar, Ryan Phillippe, and Selma Blair) turned 25 last year, and Prime Video released a brand new TV show inspired by the movie. The series featured a fresh twist that will keep even the most dedicated Cruel Intentions fan on their toes — but unfortunately the show was cancelled after just one season.

Here's everything you need to know about Prime Video's Cruel Intentions TV show — including why you should watch it despite its cancellation.

Why was Cruel Intentions cancelled?

Prime Video hasn't made an official announcement about why the series was cancelled, but per Variety, Cruel Intentions didn't make it onto the Nielsen Top 10 Streaming charts. Plus it only got a 24 percent Rotten Tomato score. Cruel indeed.

Where can I watch Cruel Intentions TV show?

Cruel Intentions Release Date

All eight episodes of Cruel Intentions dropped on Prime Video November 21, 2024. That means you can watch them all in one sitting (and then watch them again...and again). Is there anything better than watching a new TV show with a cranberry cocktail? I think not.

Did they remake Cruel Intentions?

Jasper Savage/Prime Video

Cruel Intentions Plot

Yes, the Cruel Intentions TV show is a remake of the 1999 movie! This new adaptation takes place at a prestigious college in Washington, D.C. Step-siblings Caroline Merteuil and Lucien Belmont are determined to stay on top of the food chain — especially after a dangerous frat hazing threatens to eliminate the school's Greek Life. The best way to keep the sororities and fraternities on campus? Seduce the most unexpected sorority sister: Vice President's daughter Annie Grover.

Who's in Cruel Intentions?

Jasper Savage/Prime Video

Cruel Intentions Cast

Prime Video's new Cruel Intentions is full of standout actors, and I can't wait to see their moment in the spotlight! The cast includes:

  • Sarah Catherine Hook as Caroline Merteuil
  • Zac Burgess as Lucien Belmont
  • Savannah Lee Smith as Annie Grover
  • Sara Silva as Cece Carroway
  • John Harlan Kim as Blaise Powell
  • Khobe Clarke as Scott Russell
  • Sean Patrick Thomas as Professor Hank Chadwick
  • Brooke Lena Johnson as Beatrice Worth

The original Cruel Intentions movie stars Sarah Michelle Gellar, Ryan Phillippe, Reese Witherspoon, and Selma Blair. Selma told Variety on October 24 that even though she hadn't been asked to join the series, she'd love to make an appearance. "Maybe there will be a cameo or something," she says. "I’m excited to see it.”

Let us know on Instagram what you thought about the Cruel Intentions TV show, and check out the March TV shows you absolutely can't miss this month.

This post has been updated.

St. Patrick's Day means green is queen. We're talking green recipes, green outfits, and green cocktails! Now that you've got the recipe for pot of gold cupcakes, it's finally time to find the perfect green drink for St. Patty's day to pair them with! With our list of green cocktails, you'll be full of luck come March 17.

Find every spirited cocktail worth celebrating here – from Grasshoppers to green margaritas, we're here to make sure your St. Patty's is nothing but fun!

What is the most popular drink for St. Patrick's Day?

Denys Gromov / PEXELS

Green beer, Guinness, and green cocktails made with creme de menthe and Irish cream are the most popular drinks to have for St. Patrick's Day. You'll see celebrations chock full of themed foods and drinks, especially green in color. We love a good cocktail, so enjoying a green spirit like the ones listed is our favorite way to party!

What do Irish people drink on St. Patrick's Day?

RDNE Stock Project / PEXELS

Among a tall pint of Guinness, Irish people typically indulge in local ciders, Dublin Mules, Irish whiskey shots, and Black and Blacks for St. Patrick's Day.

What is the most popular cocktail in Ireland?

Arina Krasnikova / PEXELS

For many, the Irish Maid is one of the best cocktails in Ireland. It's made with quality whiskey, elderflower liqueur, lemon juice, and simple syrup. Other popular cocktails include the Irish Espresso Martini, Irish Eyes, and Irish Sour.

Green Beer

We had to go there. This is one of the easiest and most quintessential American-Irish drinks. (via Brit + Co)

Cucumber Gin Slushie

Brit + Co

This green slushy makes our hearts soar since you only need 6 ingredients for the recipe. This is one of the best St. Patrick's Day cocktails you can make if it's hot outside on the holiday. (via Brit + Co)

St. Patrick's Day Green Shots

Sarah Anderson

Okay – this green cocktail is actually a dessert shot, but we had to include its yumminess. You'll build a chocolatey Oreo base on the bottom before layering on the boozy pudding. (via Sarah Anderson for Brit + Co)

Pickleback

Kurt Andre

Green pickle juice and bacon bourbon in a salt-rimmed glass is all you need for a green shot to remember. (via Brit + Co)

Mezcalima Lime Cocktail

Brittany Griffin

This citrusy margarita is a great addition to your St. Patrick's menu. It's got ginger beer, so it's a good option for anyone who isn't a fan of thick, sweet drinks. If you desire a sweet sip, whip up some simple syrup to mix in. Mix in some addition green food dye to up the color! (via Brit + Co)

Midori Lemonata

Brit + Co

Don’t let the green color of this drink scare you. This St. Patty's cocktail tastes just like melon-flavored lemonade – with a boozy kick, of course. (via Brit + Co)

Shamrock Sour Cocktail

Pizzazzerie

Adding a little bit of Irish Whiskey into your drink makes it St. Patty's Day-appropriate, like this version of a whiskey sour from our collection of St. Patrick's Day recipes! (via Pizzazzerie for Brit + Co)

Avo-Keto Margarita

Don Julio

Just because you may be going low-cal doesn't mean you shouldn't be able to St. Patrick's party with the rest of 'em. This keto-friendly margarita earns its green hue from fresh avocado. (via Don Julio for Brit + Co)

Cucumber Gimlets

Brit + Co

Forget normal glasses — you can drink right out of a cucumber with these green cocktails! All you need to scoop out the inside is a melon baller, then you're all set to fill to the brim with gin and Sparkling Ice. (via Brit + Co)

Matcha Gin Sour

Takes Two Eggs

Prep this appealing matcha-based cocktail for all the green on the 17th. Think of this creative recipe as your #1 St. Patty's sip! (via Takes Two Eggs)

Key Lime Margarita

Barley & Sage

Take this classic margarita to the St. Patty's hang, and your buds will be hooked. This is a great option for when you want to serve green drinks that don't have Guinness or Irish cream. (via Barley & Sage)

Luck Of The Irish Sunrise

First Light Whiskey

Shake 2 oz First Light Whiskey, ½ oz blue curacao, ½ oz orange juice, and ¼ oz simple syrup with ice, then garnish your festive green sip with cherries and a brown sugar rim. This delicious drink will definitely keep the party going. (via First Light Whiskey)

Grasshopper Cocktail

Culinary Hill

Whip up this dessert-y green drink using just three ingredients: green creme de menthe, creme de cacao, and cream! Finish your St. Paddy's cocktail off with delicious chocolate shavings! (via Culinary Hill)

Bali Squeezed Mocktail

Chef Bai

Just because you're not drinking drinking, doesn't mean you can't sip on something delicious for the holiday. Get in the St. Patrick's spirit with this green cocktail that's full of nutrients from superfood supplements and coconut water. (via Chef Bai)

Spicy BLT Green Bloody Marys

Heather Christo

What's better than a bloody Mary? A themed bloody Mary with bacon, of course! Sip this green drink for an unforgettable St. Patrick's. (via Heather Christo)

Frozen Mint Lemonade

The View From Great Island

A slushy, minty limonana is only St. Patty's-approved when rum is added to the blender. All your pals will love these green cocktails. (via The View From Great Island)

Classic Mint Julep

Salt & Lavender

Throw back a sip so refreshing, you'll immediately want a second one. And that's totally accepted to amp up the St. Patrick's party! (via Salt & Lavender)

Taffer's Grasshopper

Taffer's Browned Butter Bourbon

To make this creamy green cocktail, shake 1.5 oz Taffer's Browned Butter Bourbon, 1 oz crème de menthe, 1 oz crème de cacao, and 1 oz crème over ice. Strain into your go-to martini glass, then top everything off with a generous amount of shaved dark chocolate. Yummm! (viaTaffer's Browned Butter Bourbon)

Cucumber Gimlet

Leite's Culinaria

Add a splash of cucumber juice to a gin classic, and your tastebuds will be in luck for St. Patrick's Day. (via Leite's Culinaria)

Vodka Limeade Punch

Crazy For Crust

Mix up a pitcher of this easy green punch for a breezy bartending duty. Tons of green lime and fresh mint leaves means there's no pinching to be had! (via Crazy For Crust)

Moscow Mule Push Pops

What Should I Make For

The warm weather will be in full spring mode come St. Patty's, meaning it's time to bust out your freezer pop molds for a cooling boozy treat! These sweet popsicles draw inspo from the classic Moscow mule. (via What Should I Make For)

Sweet Liberty's Grasshopper 2.0

Sweet Liberty

This unique green cocktail reimagines the ever-popular St. Patty's Grasshopper in the tastiest way. To make it, shake .75 oz Tempus Fugit crème de menthe (colored with green dye), .75 oz Giffard crème de cacao, .5 oz Del Maguey ‘Vida’ mezcal, .25 oz Branca Menta, 1 barspoon of absinthe, and 1.25 oz heavy cream over ice. Strain into a glass filled with crushed ice and grate some dark chocolate over top! (via Sweet Liberty in Miami Beach, FL)

Mint Matcha Latte

Chef Bai

This matcha drink is luckily super healthy for you! Enjoy this green drink recipe on its own, or spike it with Irish cream for a nice buzz. (via Chef Bai)

Cucumber Margarita

The Endless Meal

Tequila, triple sec and lime join cucumber to form a refreshing green cocktail. Everyone at the party will adore this fun refreshment! (via The Endless Meal)

Tweet us your favorite green cocktails @BritandCo and follow us on Pinterest for more!

This article has been updated.