8 Skincare Ingredients You Should Never Mix Together

Like bringing up politics at your in-laws’ dinner table or wearing closed-toe shoes right after a pedicure, there are some things you just shouldn’t mix together. And that goes for skincare too. Certain ingredients do not play well together — one product could cancel out the other’s effectiveness, or worse, seriously irritate your skin. While a few popular power-players shouldn’t be combined, other ingredients can actually boost each other’s efficacy. Follow our rules below for a supercharged skincare routine that’ll leave your skin gorgeous and glowing rather than red and uncomfortable.

the ingredients you should never mix together

1. Retinol and Vitamin C: Combining these two all-stars won’t necessarily harm your skin, but it’s best to avoid it if possible. “Vitamin C can become inactive with small variations in a solution’s pH, like when you add retinol into the mix,” explains Michelle Henry, an NYC-based board-certified dermatologist and clinical instructor of dermatology at Weill Cornell Medical College. (Photo via Petri Oeschger/ Getty)

2. Benzoyl Peroxide (BPO) and Hydroquinone: These ingredients are not buddies on your skin’s playground. “Using BPO, a popular treatment for acne, is essentially like dropping a bomb to eradicate any p. acnes bacteria on your skin,” says Dendy Engelman, an NYC-based board-certified dermatologic surgeon. “Hydroquinone, on the other hand, is a skin lightening agent that’s used to reduce pigment in your skin, and when you toss these two very potent ‘bleaching’ compounds together, it can cause hypopigmentation.”

3. Vitamin C and AHAs: “When vitamin C and AHAs (like glycolic, lactic, or malic acid) are used in conjunction, they cancel out the effects or can be irritating on the skin,” Engelman says. “Vitamin C acts as an antioxidant and AHA chemically exfoliates, so together, these acids can destabilize each other.”

4. Retinol and Acne Treatments: With the exception of the prescription acne gel Epiduo (which is specifically formulated to co-exist with retinol), “BPO and retinoids should not be used together since they deactivate each other, rendering the retinoid ineffective,” explains Engelman.

the Ingredients You Should Mix Together

1. Vitamin C and Sunscreen: “Antioxidants, like vitamin C, work to neutralize free radical damage from sun exposure and environmental aggressors, while sunscreens work to deflect (if you’re using a physical one) or absorb (if you’re using a chemical one) damaging UV rays, offering maximum protection against cell damage,” says Engelman. Look for a serum like Isdinceutics Flavo-C Serum ($84), which allows antioxidants to penetrate deep into the skin, and a mineral sunscreen with tint, like La Roche-Posay Anthelios Tinted Mineral Sunscreen ($34), to protect from both the sun and pollutants. (Photo via Peopleimages/ Getty)

2. AHA/BHAs and Ceramides: “While AHAs and BHAs (like salicylic acid) help to remove the top layers of skin by weakening the lipids that bond them together (thus revealing healthy skin cells), ceramides help to restore the skin by holding the cells, locking in moisture, and acting as a barrier against pollution and bacteria,” says Engelman. Which means applying ceramide-rich formulas really helps hydrate and strengthen skin. To upgrade your regimen, try something like iS Clinical Tri-Active Exfoliant ($60) at night, and follow up with Elizabeth Arden Ceramide Capsules Restoring Serum ($44 for 30 capsules).

3. Retinol and Hyaluronic Acid: “Retinoids help to accelerate cell turnover by pushing younger cells to the skin’s surface, and although they’re a fantastic anti-ager, they can be irritating and induce desquamation (or skin peeling),” explains Engelman. On the other hand, “[hyaluronic acid (HA)] helps to hydrate the skin, combating both the irritation and peeling caused by retinoids.” For those struggling with acne, she recommends trying Differin Acne Treatment Gel ($11), an over-the-counter retinoid that’s gentle enough for sensitive skin. For those who prefer HA in serum form, try the Revision Hydrating Serum ($82.50), which is light, absorbs quickly, and contains a blend of natural fruit extracts to keep skin uniformly hydrated.

Are you using any products with these ingredients already? Let us know @BritandCo!

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(Featured photo via PLAINVIEW/ Getty)

If I'm completely honest, there are very few celebrity couples I care about the way I care about Tom Holland and Zendaya. Aside from the fact this couple is like a walking friends-to-lovers plotline IRL, and are both power houses on their own, these two actors and philanthropists are just unstoppable together. And Zendaya also showed up to the 2025 Golden Globes rocking a new ring on THAT finger. These two keep their relationship pretty private, so here's the latest news on it.

Here's everything you need to know about Hollywood It-couple Tom Holland & Zendaya.

Tom Holland And Zendaya's Relationship Timeline

Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney

July 2016 — Tom Holland And Zendaya Join Spider-Man: Homecoming

Tom Holland and Zendaya met and became friends when they were cast in the MCU's Spider-Man: Homecoming. Tom had already made an appearance in Captain America: Civil War, but the new Spider-Man movie was a huge deal for both Marvel fans and the couple themselves! Not only did Tom Holland and Zendaya spend time together on set, but they also hung out at the pool together during their free timeand goofed around during San Diego Comic Con.

Carlos Alvarez/Getty Images

November 2016 — Tom Holland And Zendaya Are On The Cover Of The Hollywood Reporter

Tom Holland and Zendaya basically broke the internet when they graced the cover of The Hollywood Reporter's Nov. 2016 issue. The shoot was filled with plenty of classic Hollywood throwbacks, but I have always *loved* the blue dress Z wears on the cover. "Over the moon with my first cover," Tom writes on Instagram. "So grateful that I got to share it with the one and only @zendaya. Thanks mate for helping me out."

"Honored to share it with the very best...Spider-Man himself @tomholland2013," Zendaya says in her post. "Thank you for this beautiful cover @THR."

Kevin Winter/Getty Images

May 7, 2017 — Tom Holland And Zendaya Attend The MTV Movie And TV Awards

At the 2017 MTV Movie And TV Awards, Tom Holland and Zendaya premiered a clip from Spider-Man: Homecoming...and Tom did a flip onstage and then asked Zendaya to homecoming.

Robert Marquardt/Getty Images for Sony Pictures

July 13, 2017 — Tom Holland And Zendaya Are Reportedly Dating

In July 2017, a source seemingly confirmed what many fans had been wondering for months: that Tom Holland and Zendaya had been dating. Considering the two other sets of Spider-Man leads (Tobey Maguire and Kirsten Dunst and Emma Stone and Andrew Garfield) both dated, it felt like this was one relationship that was bound to happen.

"They started seeing each other while they were filming Spider-Man," the insider tells People. "They've been super careful to keep it private and out of the public eye but they've gone on vacations with each other and try and spend as much time as possible with one another."

"They're both really ambitious and they challenge each other — but, most importantly, they make each other crack up," says another insider. "They seem to have a really similar sense of humor and love joking around together."

Tom Holland and Zendaya actually took to Twitter (now X) to tackle the rumors. "Wait wait...my favorite is when it says we go on vacations together HA! I haven't been on a vacation in years!" Zendaya says, to which Tomreplies, "Does the press tour count[?]"

Frazer Harrison/Getty Images

August 8, 2017 — Zendaya Shuts Down Dating Rumors

"We are friends," Zendaya tells Variety. "He's a great dude. He's literally one of my best friends. This past how many months we've had to do press tours together. There's very few people that will understand what that's like at 20 years old."

Noam Galai/Getty Images for New York Magazine

May 8, 2018 — Tom Holland Supports Zendaya's Iconic Met Gala Appearance

Zendaya showed up to the 2018 Met Gala (which had the theme Heavenly Bodies) as Joan of Arc, and it's quickly become one of her most iconic and recognizable carpet looks. Tom loved it just as much as we did and wrote on Instagram, "All hail the queen. Killing it mate."

Theo Wargo/Getty Images

July 2019 — Tom Holland And Zendaya Have A Very Chaotic Press Tour For Spider-Man: Far From Home

For Spider-Man: Far From Home in 2019, Tom Holland, Zendaya, and Jacob Batalon did dozens of junkets together, and many of the interviews have gone viral — like Tom and Jacob finally meeting their favorite Watch Mojo hostandthe cast playing games with Jimmy Kimmel. Junkets are always fun to watch, and this one is no exception!

Cindy Ord/Getty Images for SiriusXM

July 2, 2021 — Tom Holland And Zendaya Are Seen Kissing

After years of denying they were dating, Tom Holland and Zendaya really and truly broke the internet when pictures of them kissing in a car showed up on social media. This was such a vital moment that I remember exactly where I was when I found out.

"THEY ARE END GAME DREAM COUPLE," one X user tweeted. "I don't know if I want to be Tom Holland to kiss Zendaya or be Zendaya to kiss Tom Holland," another user joked.

Tom Holland and Zendaya were later seen attending a friend's wedding...and sitting very close to each other.

Tom Holland/Instagram

September 1, 2021 — Tom Holland And Zendaya Make Their Relationship Instagram Official

On Zendaya's 25th birthday, Tom Holland posted the sweetest picture from the Spider-Man makeup trailer on Instagram. "My MJ, have the happiest of birthdays," he says in the caption. "Gimme a call when [you're] up xxx."

Michael Loccisano/Getty Images

November 17, 2021 — Tom Holland And Zendaya Open Up About Their Relationship

In an interview with GQ, Tom Holland opened up about his relationship with Zendaya and how their relationship to fame has impacted everything. "One of the downsides of our fame is that privacy isn’t really in our control anymore, and a moment that you think is between two people that love each other very much is now a moment that is shared with the entire world,” he says of their July 2 kiss. “I’ve always been really adamant to keep my private life private, because I share so much of my life with the world anyway...We sort of felt robbed of our privacy.”

“It was quite strange and weird and confusing and invasive,” Zendaya agrees. “I think loving someone is a sacred thing and a special thing and something that you want to deal with and go through and experience and enjoy amongst the two people that love each other."

“Our relationship is something that we are incredibly protective of and we want to keep as sacred as possible," Tom later told The Hollywood Reporter. "We don’t think that we owe it to anyone, it’s our thing, and it has nothing to do with our careers.”

Emma McIntyre/Getty Images

December 15, 2021 — Zendaya Posts A Tribute To Tom Holland As Spider-Man

Before Spider-Man: No Way Home hit theaters, Zendaya posted a pair of photos featuring Tom in his superhero costume on set, and in a costume as a kid. "My Spider-Man," the caption reads. "I’m so proud of you, some things never change and good thing♥️." Adorable!

Aurelien Meunier/Getty Images

February 22, 2022 — Tom Holland Says He'd Love To Be In Euphoria

Zendaya shattered records when she became the youngest person to win the Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series for Rue in Euphoria. Tom also made headlines related to Euphoria when he said he'd be interested in making a cameo in the series. "I would be in Euphoria. I think I would be a really good Maddy," he jokes during a BuzzFeed puppy interview. "I'm a big Euphoria fan. I love the show and I love season 2. I visited a lot while they were shooting it and I really, really enjoyed it...I would love to guest star or just be an extra in it. Or maybe I am and you just don't know."

Momodu Mansaray/Getty Images

April 20, 2022 — Zendaya Talks About Tom Holland's Support During Euphoria

"I think it's great to have that support and love around you, because you need that," Zendaya tells Entertainment Tonightduring Euphoria's Emmy For Your Consideration event. "This isn't an easy job, so it's good to have that to free you up from it every now and then."

Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images for TIME and Carlos Alvarez/Getty Images

June 1, 2022 — Zendaya Celebrates Tom Holland's Birthday

For Tom's 26th birthday, Zendaya posted a rare photo of her with Tom, captioning the post, "Happiest of birthdays to the one who makes me the happiest <3."

Frazer Harrison/Getty Images

March 20, 2023 — Zendaya Wears A Ring With Tom Holland's Initials

I am always in favor of cute, meaningful, and minimalist jewelry, and apparently, Zendaya is too! When Zendaya's nail artist posted a video of the actress' new ballet pink manicure, fans quickly noticed the "TH" ring Z was wearing.

Ethan Miller/Getty Images

April 27, 2023 — Tom Holland And Zendaya Go To An Usher Concert

2023 was the year of concerts for everyone, including celebrities! While Zendaya attended CinemaCon to promote Dune 2, she also went to an Usher concert with Tom Holland. "Childhood dreams come true, going to an @usher concert," Zendaya said on her Instagram story (via People).

Frazer Harrison/Getty Images and Pascal Le Segretain/Getty Images

May 4, 2023 — Tom Holland And Zendaya Attend An NBA Game

Tom Holland and Zendaya had another date night in May, complete with the perfect athleisure, popcorn, and relaxed smiles.

Xavi Torrent/Getty Images

January 12, 2024 — Tom Holland Confirms His Relationship With Zendaya Is Still Going Strong

After Zendaya unfollowed everyone on Instagram ahead of her new movie Challengers (Blake Lively pulled a similar move before her film A Simple Favor, as did Taylor Swift before Reputation), rumors started swirling that the pair had called it quits. When asked whether they had broken up, Tom says (via TMZ), "No, absolutely not."

Frazer Harrison/Getty Images

January 14, 2024 — Tom Holland Says He Loves Watching Spider-Man: Homecoming With Zendaya

During the 2024 Critics Choice Awards, Tom Holland told Extra how much he loves rewatching his first Spider-Man movie, especially when he watches it with Z. "Zendaya and I will, every now and then, watch Spider-Man 1 and reminisce about being 19 and making those movies again," he says. "I love those movies, and I love savoring those moments, so I try not to watch them as often as I would maybe like to because it’s so special. It's such a luxury, such a gift to be able to sit down and sort of relive your youth.”

Tom Holland/Instagram

January 23, 2024 — Tom Holland Shows Zendaya Some Love

Since Tom Holland and Zendaya are very private, they don't often post about their relationship on social media. But when Zendaya debuted a new look at Paris Fashion Week, Tom Holland couldn't help but post a pic of Z to his Instagram story with three heart-eye emojis. We share the same sentiment, Tom, what a coincidence!

Joe Maher/Getty Images

February 15, 2023 — Tom Holland Supports Zendaya's Dune 2

The London premiere of Dune 2 was very eventful. Zendaya basically broke the internet by wearing a Mugler "Machinenmensch" robot suit (before changing into this chic black dress from Mugler by Casey Cadwallader), a certain actress spoiled her appearance in the movie by showing up to the carpet, and Tom Holland and Zendaya were spotted at the afterparty together. I love the care and attention Tom shows Zendaya (I, too, would be overwhelmed if I was surrounded by paparazzi like in this video of the couple), and I hope they got to unwind after a crazy night!

Tom Holland/Instagram

February 21, 2024 — Tom Holland Also Supports Zendaya's Challengers

After the new trailer for Challengers dropped, Tom Holland shared it to his Instagram story, promising the movie looks just as good as we're hoping. "You ain't ready for this one!" he says alongside the trailer.

Chung Sung-Jun/Getty Images

February 21, 2024 — Zendaya Says Tom Holland Has The Best "Rizz"

When asked who has the best "rizz" (short for charisma) in the Dune 2 cast, Zendaya immediately pivots and makes the answer more personal! "Everybody's kind of got their own [rizz]," she tells Buzzfeed. "I think someone who has beautiful charisma, not on the Dune cast, but...it works for me, is Mr. Tom Holland."

"I'm more shy and kind of quiet, so it takes a little bit more to pull me out of my shell but he's great at just talking to people and getting to know people," she continues. "He's just naturally very good at that. Or as for me, I've definitely had to pull it out of me a little bit. He's got that natural gift."

Matthew Stockman/Getty Images

March 17, 2024 — Tom Holland And Zendaya Watch A Tennis Game

Ahead of Zendaya's spring movie Challengers (in which she plays a tennis pro-turned-coach opposite Mike Faist and Josh O'Connor), she watched the BNP Paribas Open Men's Final at Indian Wells Tennis Garden. Alongside Tom Holland and her assistant Darnell Appling, who she frequently calls her brother, Zendaya got comfy in a cream-colored tennis skirt, tank top, and zip-up hoodie ensemble. Spring really is here!! My favorite part of the afternoon is when Tom Holland and Zendaya sang along with Whitney Houston's "I Wanna Dance With Somebody."

James Gourley/Getty Images

April 9, 2024 — Zendaya Raves About Tom Holland

In her Vogue cover story for May 2024, Zendaya talks a lot about how fame has affected both her life and Tom Holland's. “His [career] changed overnight. One day you’re a kid and you’re at the pub with your friends, and then the next day you’re Spider-Man,” she says. “I definitely watched his life kind of change in front of him. But he handled it really beautifully.”

That star power was evident in 2022, when Tom Holland and Zendaya spent the afternoon at the Louvre in Paris...and almost broke the internet. “You just kind of get used to the fact that, 'Oh, I’m also one of these art pieces you’re going to take a picture of. I just gotta be totally cool with it and just live my life,'" Zendaya continues. (She also says that when the museum let them walk around after-hours, "it was like Night at the Museum.”)

This spring, Zendaya can't wait to see Tom Holland in his London production of Romeo & Juliet: "[I] could not be more proud. I’m going to try to see as many shows as I possibly can.”

Gareth Cattermole/Getty Images

April 10, 2024 — Challengers Premieres In London

Tom Holland showed up for the London premiere of Challengers, and got to support Zendaya in the sweetest way. In this video captured at the premiere, you can see Tom and Z share a hug and a kiss on the cheek during the evening. Even the smallest gesture can mean a lot during a busy night, and I love how in sync Tom Holland and Zendaya are!

The latest viral clip about Tom Holland and Zendaya also has to do with Challengers. During another Challengers press tour stop, Zendaya's overjoyed to be presented with a bouquet of gardenias. “These are my favorite flowers!” she exclaims. When asked if Tom Holland buys her flowers, she points at the camera and jokes, “I hope he's watching!”

While not every girlfriend necessarily wants a bouquet, every couple definitely has to figure out each other's love languages so they can get to know each other better — and apparently A-listers are the exact same!

Arnold Jerocki/Getty Images for LVMH x Vogue x NBC

August 31, 2024 — Zendaya And Tom Holland Match On A Day Date

After a summer starring in Romeo and Juliet, Tom Holland took a late-summer stroll with Zendaya in Calabasas, California. They also ended up wearing matching white tanks (Zendaya styled hers with trousers and ballet flats, while Tom opted for cargo-esque joggers and white sneakers) for the ultimate twinning moment.

Bero

October 15, 2024 — Tom Holland Launches A New Company With Unexpected Help From Zendaya

After going sober in 2022, Tom Holland announced on October 15 he was launching a non-alcoholic drink company called Bero. “When I got sober, I started exploring the world of non-alcoholic beers and realized there was space for me to fit in,” Tom says in an interview with Forbes. “My first year sober was really difficult, and had I had Bero, I think it would have been easier.”

“Zendaya hates beer, like, absolutely hates beer," he continues. And when she helped with the taste testing, a joke helped guide the overall brand. "She does not drink beer at all, and the first round of testing she was like, ‘Wow, these are really tasty’, and I was like, ‘Well, that's probably not a good sign.'"

And at the launch event for Bero in New York City, Tom and Zendaya wore matching shades of burgundy! Z stunned in a floor-length leather dress while Tom paired a short sleeve sweater with black trousers.

On

October 15, 2024 — Zendaya Reveals Why She'd Never Take A Dance Class With Tom Holland

While speaking to Teen Vogue for her partnership with On, Zendaya reveals she'd probably avoid dance classes with Tom Holland because "he's too good, it would piss me off," she jokes. "I would want to take someone who could be equally as bad as me."

"Kayaking, I would choose Tom because I think that, if I can remember correctly, with the kayak, you have to be in sync with the person," she continues. "And I think it would be hilarious because we are both very controlling and we both want to be in charge. So it would be funny to watch us be like, no, we're going to go this way. No, we're going to go that way. And I think it would be a good story after the fact."

October 31, 2024 — Tom Holland Reveals Googling Zendaya Eases His Anxiety

While appearing on an episode of Samah Dada’s On the Menu podcast, Tom Holland spoke about how protective he gets over Zendaya, which, if you ask me, is pretty clear after that viral video of her getting swarmed by paparazzi — and him physically getting in the middle.

“I’m not on socials, and I delete [the apps] when I’m not using [them],” he tells Samah. “So sometimes I — it’s more of a bit of an anxiety thing...I just give it a little Google, look [through] the news, and I’m like, ‘She’s good. We’re fine.'"

Pascal Le Segretain/Getty Images

November 13, 2024 — Zendaya Reveals Working With Tom Holland Is "Like Second Nature"

In Vanity Fair's new Hollywood 2025 issue, Zendaya opened up on what it's like to work with her partner, and reveals "it’s actually strangely comfortable."

"It’s like second nature, if anything," she says. "You feel extra safe with the person you’re acting beside. I love working with him. He’s so talented, and so passionate about what he does. He always gives things one thousand percent, even if he’s absolutely worn down. I really appreciate that about him. It feels pretty normal. That’s how we met. Literally, at a chemistry read."

I'm sure that was one heck of a chemistry read!

Tom Holland/Instagram

November 24, 2024 — Tom Holland & Zendaya Have A Cozy Date Night

Tom and Zendaya went out for a pint to wrap up the weekend, heading to Foxhole to sample Bero "in the wild," according to Tom himself (via Instagram stories). And the actor ended up sharing a super cute photo of Zendaya in a red top with a gold necklace, a menu, and her cell phone covered in a grippy phone mount that a lot of TikTokers use to attach their phones to the wall. Does this mean there's a backlog of Zendaya TikToks?!

One People sourcealso reports the couple was "very relaxed and very chatty together" at Trident Booksellers & Cafe in Boston during a Friday morning breakfast. Sweet!

December 2, 2024 — Tom Holland & Zendaya Are Reportedly Ready To Settle Down

We all know that Tom and Zendaya are homebodies, and it appears they're only getting cozier the farther they get into their relationship — especially as friends like Robert Pattinson start their own families! “As Tom and Zendaya move closer to having a wedding next year, basically living like a husband and wife already, and continuing to book multiple film projects together, Rob is cheering them on,” a source tells Life & Style. "If things keep going in this direction, Rob is going to figure into their wedding as a best man or groomsman and he absolutely wants the new, little families they are starting to be close going forward."

“For Tom’s part, he’s seen up close how settling down, getting serious and having kids has changed Rob,” they continue. “Tom wants that life for himself and Zendaya, sooner rather than later.”

If Tom and Zendaya really are planning on getting married, and Robert Pattinson ends up in the wedding, I'll cry! And I just know Zendaya's wedding dress is going to be THE look of the decade.

Amy Sussman/Getty Images

January 6, 2025 — Tom Holland & Zendaya Spark More Engagement Rumors

Zendaya showed up to the 2025 Golden Globes wearing a brand new diamond ring — and the internet is convinced her and Tom are engaged. When an LA Times reporter asked if the actress was engaged, Z reportedly "smiled coyly and shrugged her shoulders mysteriously."

Keep checking back here for the latest news on Tom Holland and Zendaya's relationship, and see what Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce are up to as well!

This post has been updated.

The beauty aisle at Trader Joe's is not one I typically ever stop by, but as of late, the internet has totally convinced me to start shopping for Trader Joe’s beauty products. I was scouring the Trader Joe’s subreddit (as I love to do) and landed on a thread that was all about the grocer’s best beauty picks.

If you didn’t know by now, TJ’s sells everything from serums to hair care! Plus, oftentimes, they’re significantly cheaper than high-end name brands – for around the same formulas and quality.

Below, find 10 of the best Trader Joe’s beauty products recommended by die-hard shoppers!

Trader Joe's

1. Retinol Night Serum

Retinol can be a bit daunting when it comes to skincare, especially if you're a first-time user. This TJ's formula only contains 0.3% retinol, so it's fairly gentle. One expert Redditor swears by this $10 bottle:

“After working in a dermatology office, I swear by their retinol serum," they wrote. "It’s very similar to the $70 0.3% serum we sold. Also their triple antioxidant serum looks exactly like the one we sold for over $100. Luxury really is an illusion.”

Trader Joe's

2. Ultra Hydrating Gel Moisturizer

Trader Joe's tapped their "favorite" high-end skincare producer to create this $9 pot of gel moisturizer. It's "packed" with aloe leaf juice as well as green tea, birch leaf, and milk thistle extracts to help soothe the skin, while "holy grail" ingredients like sodium hyaluronate help to truly lock in moisture.

Several Redditors compared this affordable TJ's formula to expensive alternatives like the Peter Thomas Roth Water Drench Moisturizer ($58) and the Biossance Balancing Gel Moisturizer ($54). 👀

Trader Joe's

3. Daily Facial Sunscreen

This SPF got endless praise on Reddit. Its formula is far from "thick" and "sticky" – that is, according to Trader Joe's. It's translucent, oil-free, fragrance-free (sensitive skin-havers rejoice!), absorbs quickly, and leaves a silky matte finish. Oh, and it's only $9. Sounds perfect, right? Here's what shoppers have to say:

"I love it and I have gone two very hot summers without getting a sunburn!” one person said.

“A lot of sunscreen leaves a weird white cast on my (darker) skin but this one is perfect,” another noted.

“I've been using this for like a decade," one more user wrote. "The SPF 15 isn't enough if I'm going to be in the sun all day, but for office days it's perfect. I have sensitive skin and it doesn't break me out.”

Amazon

4. 100% Pure Jojoba Oil

Someone noted that this jojoba oil "takes off waterproof mascara like nobody's business.” I love to hear it!

Trader Joe's jojoba oil is super versatile, too. You can easily use it as both a cleanser and moisturizer: cleanse clogged pores, remove makeup, and moisturize your hair and scalp with just a few drops! Since a little goes a long way, I'd say $15 a bottle is well worth it.

Trader Joe's

5. Ultra Moisturizing Hand Cream

Trader Joe's Ultra Moisturizing Hand Cream is notorious for being a dupe of L’Occitane's Shea Butter Hand Cream. One Redditor noted that it easily compares in terms of the formula: TJ's version also boasts 20% pure shea butter and coconut oil to nourish dry skin. They also highlighted the fact that "the scent for the basic versions is identical.”

While L’Occitane's hand cream costs $30, TJ's tube is only $5. A steal!

“The hand cream is so good!" another user said. "I have a tube in my car, in my bag, at my office, etc.”

Trader Joe's

6. Supreme Hydrating Eye Cream

Trader Joe's sells eye cream?! Okay, now I need to go. TJ's notes that this $6 tube contains many "sought-after" ingredients like hydrolyzed marine collagen, coenzyme Q10, Manuka honey, hibiscus extract, and almond, argan, rosehip, and marula seed oils to soften and soothe the under eye area. It's also supposed to be extra-rich and creamy without weighing your skin down!

A couple Redditors couldn't say enough good things about it:

“I can’t praise the eye cream enough. It’s very moisturizing and does a fantastic job keeping my eye area hydrated in the dry air," one person said. "I’m 35 and I have very little wrinkles, I use it twice a day. I’ve used very high end eye creams before and while yes they were nice, I feel like TJ’s one does the job for me at this age.”

“My skin is so dry that my eyelids get flaky often, this helps more than anything else by far," another commented. "Sometimes I use it on my whole face when it’s really sensitive.”

Trader Joe's

7. Cleansing + Conditioning Hair Wash

“The Cleansing + Conditioning Hair Wash is the GOAT for my hair!" one Reddit user wrote. "I used to buy expensive cleansing conditioners and the TJ’s one is honestly way better (at least for my hair!)... it makes my hair super soft and healthy feeling but I don’t get super greasy!”

This $5 product replaces the need for a two-step hair care routine (AKA shampoo and conditioner) by combining both of 'em. It's made without detergents, sulfates, parabens, or silicones, so your hair's natural oils and moisture are not lost. It's essentially a co-wash, which can help you cut down on how often you need to wash your hair, all while hydrating dry strands and taming frizz!

Trader Joe's

8. Hyaluronic Moisture Boost Serum

I am a ride-or-die fan of The Ordinary's hyaluronic acid serum – it always adds that extra boost of hydration to my dry winter skin and never irritates it, either. Based on Trader Joe's shopper's recommendations, I'm gonna have to try their similar $9 serum out ASAP.

One shopper said it's "light and hydrating. I have dry skin and it really makes a difference.”

Another user shared that they "use it every morning and night after [they've] washed [their] face.”

TJ's says this formula is water-based, unscented, never tested on animals, and non-comedogenic. In addition to moisturizing hyaluronic acid, it includes 1% sodium hyaluronate, which can penetrate the skin even deeper to provide much-needed moisture.

Trader Joe's

9. Brazil Nut Body Butter

Fan of the Sol De Janeiro Brazilian Bum Bum Cream's scent and nourishing effect, but not the nearly-$50 price tag? Trader Joe's famed Brazil Nut Body Butter seems to measure up pretty well for a mere fraction of the price. The tub of body butter itself is typically a seasonal item, but you can still snag it now in this delicious-smelling body care trio for $13.

TJ's fans are nuts for this product (pun fully intended):

“Brazil Nut body butter is one of the best body lotions I’ve ever used,” someone said.

“Brazil nut body wash and butter body are amazing!" one person wrote. "I bought like 4 tubs of the body butter.”

“Yes. It smells amazing and the texture is fantastic,” another user agreed.

“I still have two full tubs in my stash to hold me over until whenever the next seasonal body butter is available :),” one more Redditor shared. Yep, I'm grabbin' this one ASAP.

Trader Joe's

10. Marula Facial Oil

Marula oil offers insane hydration to dry skin. It also has antioxidant properties that can help even out your skin's tone and texture! While brands like Credo Beauty and Drunk Elephant sell similar marula oil formulas for $55+, TJ's version goes for $7 a pop.

The grocer says it's "light-textured and not greasy," which can definitely be hard to find in a skincare oil.

“The $7 marula oil is SO AMAZING I will never buy the Drunk Elephant stuff again even though I love that brand," one user offered.

“Recently started using the marula oil after using my (non TJ, don't love theirs) retinol and I feel like it has been a huge game changer and has given me a great glow," another person said.

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

If there’s any holiday where you’re encouraged to take shots, it’s New Year’s Eve. But, that doesn’t mean you should limit your NYE party beverages to champagne. These sparkly, glittery and all-around enticing shots are sure to please and won’t induce any bad-idea hangovers from too manytequila drinks. You can let your resolution ideas start when the calendar reads 2025. Meanwhile, cheers to enjoying these shots you’ll actually want to make (and take) this New Year’s Eve.

The 14 Best New Year's Eve Shots To Throw Back For 2025!

Brit + Co

Apple Cider Shooter

That caramel vodka you bought on a whim once can finally be put to good use with this spiked apple cider shooter. Whip it up as a shot or a large punch that will last all night long. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Root Beer Float Shooter

This soda shop classic gets an adult upgrade with ROOT, a traditional alcoholic Native American tea. And tea is healthy, right? ;) (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Rainbow Shots

Meet your new party trick! All five of these shots come out of one shaker. Prepare to amaze your guests with your bartending skills this NYE. (via Brit + Co)

Sprinkle Bakes

Champagne Chantilly Shooters

Be sure to add these cake-inspired shooters to your after-holiday to-do list to start 2016 with a little bit of deliciousness. (via Sprinkle Bakes)

Feast + West

Champagne Jell-O Shots

Turn your champagne into a shot! If you’re hosting a large party, these are a way more affordable option than a case of champagne. (via Feast + West)

Dine and Dish

Blackberry Gin Shooters

This shooter is *almost* too pretty to drink. Plus, we can all pretend that the blackberries are doing you some good. (via Dine and Dish)

A Year of Cocktails

Butternut Rum Lifesaver

A shot that tastes like candy is a sweet way to start your year off right. (via A Year of Cocktails)

Holly's Cheat Day

Tipsy Spritzer Shots

Not every shot needs to be super strong. If you’re looking for something you can enjoy throughout the night, this sweet, bubbly and tart “spritzer” shot is low in alcohol content and big on flavor. (via Holly’s Cheat Day)

Bubbly Nation Creations

Sparkling Jello Jigglers

Swap out champagne for the grape juice in this recipe to make a fancy, adult version of a JELL-O jiggler. Sprinkles and edible gold stars required. (via Bubbly Nation Creations)

Broma Bakery

Champagne Jello Shots

Awww, Jello Shots are all grown up in this festive recipe. They have a nice flavor that won’t leave you wincing afterwards. (via Broma Bakery)

The First Year

White Chocolate Champagne Cheesecake Shooters

This shot is delicious enough to be dessert. Top yours with edible glitter sprinkles to get even more festive. (via The First Year)

Cookin' Canuck

Cranberry Kamikaze Shots

NYE calls for a fancier drink than a go-to beer or wine. Ring in the new year with cranberry kamikaze shots that look pretty and taste delicious (via Cookin' Canuck)

Tablespoon

Banana Split Shooters

This shot requires five ingredients that'll send your taste buds soaring. I mean, what could be better than taking a shot of something that tastes like dessert? (via Tablespoon)

Something Swanky

Sparkling Cider Jello Shots (Non-Alcoholic)

If you want to be extra careful not to induce a hangover when you wake up in 2024, your best bet are these sparkling cider jello shots. They're made with unflavored gelatin, distilled water, cider and your choice of berries, cherries, or gummies! (via Something Swanky)

Looking for more NYE recipe or drink ideas? Check out Brit + Co on Pinterest and check out our New Year's Eve dinner ideas for more inspiration.This post has been updated.

Neighbors are funny. I'll occasionally have a quick chit-chat with mine as we cross paths by our mailboxes, and our conversations always seem to revolve around the same three topics: the weather, upcoming vacations, and home upgrades. My latest landscaping project got a few nods of approval — even from my least neighborly neighbors. The tree encroaching on their solar panel? Not so much. But hey, they notice, and there’s something undeniably satisfying about earning that neighborly thumbs up.

Here are 25 budget-friendly home upgrades that will impress your neighbors!

Etsy

Update Your House Numbers

This is such a simple fix that delivers a big impact. Update your house numbers to something a bit more modern, like these Etsy House Numbers, and you'll feel an instant refresh to your exterior.

Shutterstock

Give Some Landscaping Love

You can start small here, add a tree, a shrub, some grasses, but adding greenery that matures over time will enhancing your yard’s overall aesthetic and the value of your home. Take cues from your lifestyle too. Sod might be the ideal choice for running, playing, and family fun. Live in a dry climate? Opt for drought-tolerant plants and decorative rocks to create a low-maintenance, water-efficient landscape.

Shutterstock

Paint Your Door

A fresh coat of bold or classic color on your front door can instantly enhance its curb appeal, and surprise your neighbors in a good way.

Shutterstock

Add Outdoor String Lights

These are pretty affordable and so charming in trees and on fences, creating a cozy vibe for your outdoor space.

Wayfair

Install Window Boxes

This has been on my home bucket list since traveling around Charleston, S.C. I love a good flower box display, whether it's colorful perennials or varying shades of greenery. Check out these affordable Wayfair Planter Boxes.

West Elm

Replace or Paint Your Mailbox

A rusty old mailbox is not giving guests the best first impression. A sleek new mailbox, like this West Elm Mailbox, or a fresh coat of paint can make a big difference.

Shutterstock

Update Light Fixtures

Swap out dated porch lights and install solar pathway lights for a fresh look and more inviting space.

Arian Fernandez

Install Shutters

There's something so classic and European about shutters. Affordable, decorative ones can add charm and dimension to your windows.

Shutterstock

Pressure Wash Your Exterior

Have you spotted those IG videos of people pressure washing their homes? So mesmerizing! Wash off those cobwebs and layers of grime with an Electric Pressure Washer. A clean driveway, siding, or patio can make your home look like new.

Solo Stove

Add a Fire Pit

Build a simple and stylish fire pit with pavers or bricks or shop for one like this modern wood-burning fire pit from All Modern or this option from Solo Stove for a cozy gathering spot.

Shutterstock

Build a Garden Path

Use gravel, stepping stones, or wood chips to create an elegant walkway to your home.

Studio McGee

Hang A Wreath

It doesn't need to be December for you to hang a natural wreath on your door. A seasonal or year-round wreath, like this one from Studio McGee, adds warmth to your home’s entryway.

Eartheasy

DIY Raised Garden Beds

Build a raised garden bed for under $50 with our guide or shop for these lovely cedar ones on Eartheasy. Come spring you'll have plenty of space to plant vegetables and herbs and flowers.

Wayfair

Add A Bird Bath

A bird bath, like this Wayfair Pedestal Birdbath from Kelly Clarkson Home, is a great way to support your local wildlife and pretty up your front yard.

Shutterstock

Paint or Stain Outdoor Furniture

Outdoor furniture gets weathered throughout the year if not protected. Before spring comes, spruce up your outdoor furniture with paint, or a sand and wood stain to give your front yard a polished look.

Shutterstock

Paint or Stain Your Fence

Refreshing an old fence with a new coat of paint or stain will absolutely get neighbors talking.

Amazon

Upgrade Your Door Hardware

Is your door handle looking a bit dated or worn? Replace old doorknobs, locks, or handles with more stylish and modern options, like this Entry Door Handle.

Shutterstock

Add Planters To Your Porch

Planters welcome your guests and frame your porch in an inviting way. Find plants you love and make a great first impression with beautiful planters.

Evelyn Paris

Paint or Tile Your Stair Risers

Paint your stair risers in a fun contrasting or complementary color to your home, or if you want to invest a little more time and money add a decorative tile. I did this with a tile inspired by my trip to Portugal and get compliments all the time! You can also find peel-and-stick floor tile for outside porches.

Wayfair

Add Front Porch Seating

Classic Adirondacks, modern rocking chairs like these Wayfair Rocking Chairs, and swing chairs can make your yard more inviting and useful. I had a total mom win when I saw my daughter reading outside in our new Adirondack chairs.

Shutterstock

Add a Trellis

This doesn't have to be major, but a small trellis around your door can make a big impact come spring when the flowers bloom.

Shutterstock

Wash Your Windows

This is a low-cost way to make your home literally shine.

Wayfair

Hide Trash Bins

Hide any eyesores like trash bins and HVAC units with a privacy screen with a planter for flowers and vines.

Shutterstock

Add New Mulch

Clear any weeds and refresh your mulch to instantly tidy up garden beds.

Etsy

Decorate For the Seasons

Making your entryway festive for the seasons can bring joy and cheer to your neighborhood all year long. This Etsy Doormat is so cute for Valentine's Day!

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

My best friend and I recently had a 3-hour conversation about navigating love in our 30s, coming to the conclusion that our prior breakups helped us become clearer about what we want in love. After we said our good-byes, I started thinking about questions worth asking yourself when you're single.

Unlike some people who tell you not to worry about love when you're not coupled up, I think it actually does help to have an idea about the kind of person and relationship that'll fit in your life when the time comes. I wish it wish it were this easy, but the perfect situation isn't going to fall into your lap — because it doesn't exist. Even now, I'm still learning about myself and my fiancé as we experience life together.

So are you single and trying to understand what you actually want out of your love life? Here are some questions you should ask yourself!

Here are the questions to ask yourself while you're in your single era!

Ivan Samkov

1. Start with questions that focus on you

Either you agree with clichés or you don't. As annoying as they can be, hearing someone tell you to get to know yourself while you're single shouldn't be. It only gets sticky when people tell you that you'll never find love while on your self-care journey. We can agree to disagree with that.
So, what kind of questions should you be asking yourself to get to know your inner workings better?
  • Who do I think I am?
  • What are my favorite qualities about myself?
  • Do I have any habits I want to change?
  • Would I date myself if I were a different person?
  • How do I pour love into myself?

George Milton

2. More questions to ask yourself about who you are

Other questions you can ask yourself can have something to do with your morals or boundaries. It's a way for you to understand areas of your life that you may not always think about everyday.

  • What do I value in life?
  • What kind of boundaries have I set (or need to put in place)?
  • Do I spend a lot of time focused on other people?
  • Do I have religious beliefs?

Vlada Karpovich

3. Think about if you want to be single or in a serious relationship

Once you have a better understanding of who you are, think about the kind of romantic love you'd like to have in your life. There's a chance you're not even interested in a serious monogamous relationship right now and that's okay. The point is to get clear about what you do want.

Start asking:

  • Am I okay with being single or do I feel pressured to settle down?
  • Do I care more about dating several people or choosing one person to romantically connect with?
  • Is there a reason I wouldn't want a long-term relationship?
  • Is it hard to be vulnerable whether I'm looking for something short-term or long-term?

Yan Krukau

4. Revisit past flings and relationships

Though tempting, this isn't a confirmation that you should call the ex you've been thinking about. Rather, take the time to revisit what you think did or didn't work.

  • What brought me joy about prior flings or relationships?
  • Was there mutual respect between myself and former romantic partners?
  • Did I or former partners feel possessive of each other?
  • Did I ever feel afraid for my safety in prior relationships?

Gustavo Fring

5. Allow yourself to be curious about the kind of partner you're attracted to

I'm not asking you to 'listen and judge' yourself for who you're typically attracted to. We all have our reasons why certain people make our hearts race even if said people aren't the greatest for us in the long run. This is the time to be curious about who you're drawn to and why.

  • Am I drawn to people's physical appearance first or their personality?
  • What kind of qualities am I attracted to overall?
  • Have I ever ignored red flags because I thought someone was attractive?

Anna Pou

6. Think about the kind of long-term relationship you'd like to have

Ready for something serious? There's still some questions you should ask yourself before jumping into something new.

  • Am I capable of trusting someone new?
  • How do I want to feel in a new romantic relationship?
  • What are my goals if I decide to pursue a long-term relationship?
  • How would I like to handle potential disagreements in my new relationships?
  • What are my dealbreakers?

These questions may seem like a lot, but it's a way to help you understand how you want your love like to look. Also, there's a possibility you could encounter scenarios that may not fit under these questions because life can be full of surprises. All that matters is you're able to have a better understanding of who you are and what you want in 2025.

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