WTF Is Micro-Needling: An Expert Breaks It Down

My Favorite Face Moisturizers For Dry Skin

Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cream

I've been using Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cream for the past 3 years and it's been a miracle for my confused skin. IMO, it's not greasy despite having a richer texture than I'm used to. It actually feels soothing to me and I think that has everything to do with the 4.5 percent Squalene and Glacial Glycoprotein that's in it.

I typically use a hyaluronic acid serum in addition to this, but this facial cream is my go-to moisturizer.

Why Other Customers Love It

Other customers have a lot to say about this thick moisturizer, but the standout Amazon reviews are:

• "By profession I'm a cosmetologist so have decades of experience not only with hair products, but also with those concerning skin care. I've tried almost every item on the market and this is my favorite. It isn't heavy, yet provides plenty of moisturization. My face feels so soft! I'm a senior citizen and my skin tends to be dry, but just a little of this smoothes and hydrates it. You don't even need a primer. Makeup glides on."
• "This is the only moisturizer that doesn’t break out my extremely sensitive skin. I have rosacea and other products burn my skin and make my face even more red. I’ve been using this and it’s the only thing I can use."
• "This moisturizer feels great on the skin! I have mixed oily and dry skin and it has done so well. I recently switched from Tula to this brand and I have not regretted it. It does not cause breakouts and I feel like my face is hydrated the whole day. i would definitely recommend."
• "Nice product that gives some sun protection. A little thicker consistency than regular moisturizer but the convenience of not using sunscreen for daily errands. My DIL gave me this once for a birthday & I have been using ever since."

La Roche-Posay Triple Repair Moisturizing Cream

Okay, this moisturizer is a little pricier than the others I've mentioned, but it's La Roche-Posay! If you're looking at me with a blank stare, I'll do my best to explain. This is hands-down one of the best skincare brands I've come across in my 30s because a handful of their products have a seal of approval from the National Eczema Association.

It has shea butter and niacinamide in it, which are double threats against icky environmental elements that cling to dry skin. Plus, you can use it on your face, body and hands!

Why Other Customers Love It

Here are some of the best reviews on Amazon about this luxurious moisturizer:

• "This lotion has literally no fragrance. It leaves my skin feeling soft with a subtle glow without being greasy. It is also extremely hydrating. I have very sensitive skin, and the fact that babies can use it too is what made me decide to try it."
• "The first application was wild. It’s thick and feels pretty slippery on the surface. But the next morning, I didn’t want to stop touching my face. The flakes became way more manageable and allowed me to continue the retinitis treatment. I’ve been using this for a few weeks, and my skin texture has improved tremendously. It is great that you can use it on your body as well. I lather it on at night and then put a very light layer on under my sunscreen in the morning. It doesn’t make me look greasy if I let it soak in before applying makeup."
• "It instantly alleviated my dryness, leaving my skin radiant, glowy, and remarkably hydrated. As we transition into the winter months, I’m confident this cream will be a lifesaver against the harsh, windy weather we often experience in the Midwest."
• "As someone with sensitive and acne-prone skin, this has been a game changer. I can't imagine going without this product since starting tretinoin and tazarotene. I use it as a final step in my routine to seal in moisture and any active ingredients. La Roche-Posay has consistently made sensitive-skin-friendly products. I'm not sure how you may react to the high shea butter content, but my skin doesn't seem to have any issues with it. The thickness is unlike any lotion I've tried. 10/10 would recommend."

Olay Complete+ Rich Moisturizing Cream

Having sensitive skin isn't a death sentence for your face. It just means your skin is picky and only wants the best products to touch it, so technically it's like having a superpower. If you're still not convinced, let Olay's Complete+ Rich Moisturizing Cream persuade you.

It has vitamin B3, vitamin E, and ceramides in it that work together to provide all day hydration. Also, these powerhouse ingredients work together to promote healthy cell turnover so your gorgeous moisture barrier is in tip-top shape. P.S. It's recommended by the Skin Health Alliance.

Why Other Customers Love This Facial Moisturizer

Check out what these Amazon customers had to say:

• "I have extremely sensitive skin and this doesn't irritate my skin. I've tried and given up using many products (I'm 71). This cream makes my skin (face and neck) soft and hydrated. I use it several hours before bed and again in the morning. I alternate using it with another face skin care product."
• "I find this to be every bit as moisturizing, creamy, and long-lasting as any of the more expensive face creams that are all the rage these days. I have tried many of the face serums, creams, and lotions and do not think any of them work any better than this Olay Face Cream."
• "My mom used Olay products and her skin was immaculate! I started using it in my 30s and switched to other more popular, more expensive brands. I should have never stopped using it. I love this new moisturizer too! It feels amazing and makes my face look so smooth! I'm back Olay!"
• "Tried this because my husband’s dermatologist has the most beautiful skin. I asked the dr what he used and this was it. After using so many different moisturizers for years I always had red rough skin. Now after all these years the redness is gone!! Its definitely worth giving it a try."

My #1 Favorite Body Moisturizer For Dry Skin 

Palmer's Shea Formula Body Lotion

Since it's a little colder, I need something that's going to keep my skin moisturized without triggering eczema flareups. One of the top moisturizers that gets the job done is Palmer's Shea Formula Body Lotion.

I personally opt to get the value size of this because it lasts a little over a month for me. Why? Well, a little goes a long way because this dermatologist-approved formula is thick. But once I rub it into my skin, it provides the silkiest shine I've ever seen. Besides shea butter, it has Marula, oatmeal, grapeseed oil, and vitamin E in it to provide the radiance I love so much.

It's usually $16 on Amazon, but it's currently on sale for $13!

Why Other Customers Love It

According to Amazon, over 5,000 customers have purchased Palmer's Shea Formula body lotion this month. Also, it has a 4.6 rating which means I'm not the only one who loves using it. Here's my favorite 5-star reviews:

• "As someone who battles dry skin year-round, finding a reliable moisturizer has always been a challenge—until I discovered Palmer's Shea Formula Raw Shea Body Lotion. This lotion has been a game-changer for me, and I'm thrilled to share my experience."
• "The smell of this is amazing, makes my skin silky and smooth. great everyday lotion & the smell is subtle enough that it doesn’t overwhelm when I put my perfume on. My skin is plenty hydrated using this and I don’t notice any stickiness once it dries down."
• "So we are on our 4th bottle now. Loving the product? Yassss!"
• "We live in far Southern Az, where it is extremely dry (except during the monsoon). So we have had to start using skin lotions to make our skin feel better. This stuff is really great! And it lasts quite awhile."

Another Body Moisturizer I Love Using For Dry Skin

Aveeno Skin Relief Moisturizing Lotion

If I feel like switching things up, I'll buy Aveeno's Skin Relief Moisturizing Lotion. It has a triple oat (oat flour, extract, and oil) and shea formula that work wonders for anyone who knows how it feels to have dry skin you suddenly have to scratch all the time. It's basically tough on things that cause dry skin, but gentle on the sensitivity of it!

Why Other Customers Love It

This lotion actually has a slightly higher rating than Palmer's and has been purchased over 6,000 times this month. The only reason it's not my first go-to is because I have fond childhood memories of Palmer's. Aside from that, Aveeno is pretty d—n amazing!

Customers are saying:

• "My derm recommended it, my skin is now so soft, not dry anymore as long as I keep applying daily."
• "Love this lotion. I am super sensitive with lifelong relatively dry skin, and also super picky about my lotion quality and what I need."
• "I've tried high end lotions and they have nothing on this stuff! This lotion is incredibly soothing, providing instant relief and long-lasting hydration that keeps my skin feeling soft and smooth all day. The formula is gentle, fragrance-free, and absorbs quickly without leaving any greasy residue, making it perfect for daily use. I’ve noticed a significant improvement in my skin’s texture and overall comfort since I started using it."
• "I’ve tried so many - This is the Only lotion that keeps the moisture in my skin. I put it on in the morning and my skin is still soft and dewy at night and even the next morning."
  

First Aid Beauty Radiance Pads

Starting off this list strong with my most-stolen product: the First Aid Beauty Radiance Pads. My husband uses these like they're candy, and at this point, I have to buy 3 boxes because of how quickly we both use them.

Exfoliating pads are a great way to cleanse your skin, especially if you get a lot of buildup from makeup, sweat, or your environment. These are great to use to make sure you've cleaned all of the dirt from the day off before you go to bed. And if you're greedy like my husband, you can also use these day and night for extra glowing skin.

Innisfree Daily Mineral Sunscreen

You can never go wrong with sunscreen, but if you have sensitive skin like me (and my husband), then opt for this option from Innisfree! It's super light, and doesn't have lots of perfumes or random fragrance — super helpful when you're trying not to irritate your skin. It also has hyaluronic acid which is super moisturizing, so it won't leave you with textured or dry skin!

L'Occitane Shea Butter Hand Cream

This hand cream became my addiction over the past couple months — which means it also became my husband's. I even had to buy him his own, because I was so tired of hearing, "Hey, can I use that good-smelling lotion again?"

This hand cream that has the most soothing feel — and smell! — on the skin. Definitely stock up on this for the colder months and you, just like the over 10,000 Amazon reviewers, will love it!

Caudalie Vinopure Clay Mask

Sometimes I like to convince my husband to have a nice, spa night in (I don't have to try very hard, he's clearly easily convinced), and this face mask is the first product I reach for. It seriously cleanses the skin, and practically eliminates visible pores from your skin. It's a very strange, detoxifying mask that I would recommend to anyone — but only to use about once every other week!

Tatcha Deep Cleanser

I just had to re-stock this product because you-know-who has been using it far too much for my liking... And I have to say, I understand why! It's very lightweight, but it really gets into your pores and helps cleanse them thoroughly. Plus, a little really does go a long way — so even if you're sharing it with your own partner, it will last!

It Cosmetics Confidence In An Eye Cream

This eye cream eliminates any trace of bags under your eyes...like it really makes them non-existent! So much so, that my husband noticed my bags were gone, and so naturally he's started using it too. It's honestly life-changing, and I'll always buy refills of this baby no matter how much we use it!

First Aid Beauty KP Bump Eraser

This has to be one of my most practical products that I didn't know I needed — or rather, we needed. If you get bumps on your skin from the sun, KP, rashes, or eczema, this product eliminates it all. It has 10% AHA which is extremely exfoliating, and basically works like magic on the skin. Such a good product!

Caudalie Beauty Elixir Face Mist

My husband would be furious if I shared this with you, but he's a face mist girly like me, through and through. As much as most men may not want to admit it, they like being pampered — and this mist truly makes you feel like you're at a spa! It's that good! I use this in the morning, because it just wakes me up with the most refreshing peppermint-like feeling. I adore this spray so much! And so does my husband...unfortunately for my bank account.

1. Handmade chocolates for the gal who absolutely adores a sweet treat: Charles Chocolates Holiday Collection
2. A candle to help your fave homebody wind down after a long day out & about: Homecourt Balsam Fireplace Candle
3. A cute little self-care set for the best girls' night in: Pinch Provisions Super Spa Set
4. For the homebody who always has their nose in a book: Where is the Bookstore Embroidered Hat
5. For your bestie who'd just rather do her nails herself: Le Mini Macaron Nail Lacquer Trio Set
   
6. For the one who values comfort above literally everything else: Seavees Apres Puff Slipper in Space Silver
7. For the cat-lover who just loves cuddles: Cat Lady Socks
8. For the queen of kitschy decor: Ginger Ceramic Stoneware Sugar Pot
9. For the at-home bartender: How to Make a Name-tini Book
10. For the one with big ideas & even bigger to-do lists: Papier Scribble & Scrawl
11. For the one who just loves a lil soak: Flewd Stresscare Trio
12. An aesthetically-pleasing (and practical!) toothpaste: hello Activated Charcoal Epic Whitening Toothpaste
13. Tasty sauces for the best drizzling and baking: Coop's Original Hot Fudge & Salted Caramel Sauce
14. For the friend who totally loves a cute hobby: Piecework Mini Zodiac Puzzle
15. For the at-home gym buff: CocoaVia Cardio Health Cocoa Powder Stick Packs
16. For the gal who loves a little lippie: Hydrashine Lipstick Balm Trio
17. For the one who always has the best playlists: Burga AirPods Pro Case
18. For your bestie who adds a little extra oomph to her outfit: We Dream in Colour Gold Bird Earrings
19. For the friend that's just a little easily overwhelmed: Ban.do Oversized Feel Better De-Stress Ball
20. For that person who always puts a smile on your face: FP Movement Smiling Buti Ankle Socks

Dive Into Our Cute & Cozy Stocking Stuffers Here!

Handmade chocolates for the gal who absolutely adores a sweet treat: Charles Chocolates Holiday Collection

I’m obsessed with this artisanal chocolate brand, awarded the BEST in the Bay Area. They’re made in small batches in San Francisco with really unique flavors, like Pecan Fleur de Sel Caramel, Cinnamon Spice Truffle, a Salty Sweet Pecan Cherry Bar and their new holiday bar Peppermint Bark Bar. YUM! Even better, Charles Chocolates uses no artificial flavors or preservatives – so it’s real chocolate vs. a sugary substitute. You can even get an edible chocolate box with the Winter and Christmas Collections, perfect for chocolate connoisseurs and the sweet tooths on your list!

A candle to help your fave homebody wind down after a long day out & about: Homecourt Balsam Fireplace Candle

I am in love with Homecourt’s seasonal fragrance, Balsam Fireplace. It mimics the scent of a crackling fire (think fresh evergreen, warm spice, and salty amber) and I can't get enough of it, from the candle to thehand wash. Each candle burns for 60 hours, giving you plenty of winter nights by the fire.

A cute little self-care set for the best girls' night in: Pinch Provisions Super Spa Set

Enjoy self care nights on the regular with these eight spa essentials, from a silky sleep mask and gua sha tool to an exfoliating mitt, hair clip, shower steamer, and scalp massager. Scrunchie included!

For the homebody who always has their nose in a book: Where is the Bookstore Embroidered Hat

We found the perfect gift for the book lover/homebody/Francophile crossover (pretty much our entire staff). And it's stocking stuffer friendly!

For your bestie who'd just rather do her nails herself: Le Mini Macaron Nail Lacquer Trio Set

Manis and nail art at home are prettier with a pop of color. Here are three shimmering shades to drop into your favorite homebody's stocking.

For the one who values comfort above literally everything else: Seavees Apres Puff Slipper in Space Silver

Cozy, cozy! These Après Puff Slip-Ons are not only so cute, but also so incredibly comfortable. Perfect for the WFHer or even someone who enjoys the comfort of the great outdoors (they're that durable), these fleece lined slippers are the best gift for just about every woman on your list.

For the cat-lover who just loves cuddles: Cat Lady Socks

So fun and playful, these mesh socks are a great way to flex your cat lady pride.

For the queen of kitschy decor: Ginger Ceramic Stoneware Sugar Pot

Sugar cubes in a ceramic gingerbread house make the holidays and your morning coffee routine a little brighter.

For the at-home bartender: How to Make a Name-tini Book

Cocktails at home, but make it personalized! OMG, how cute is this book with a signature drink for them! You get to personalize it based on their drink preferences and customize the cover. It includes a total of 29 recipes to ring in the new year.

For the one with big ideas & even bigger to-do lists: Papier Scribble & Scrawl

For the homebody who is always in their heads, this book is great for jotting down to-dos, thoughts, ideas, inspirations and more. You can personalize the cover with their name, a fun title, an alter ego or a special quote too.

For the one who just loves a lil soak: Flewd Stresscare Trio

These transdermal bath soaks give your homebody buddy up to 5 days of the stress-reducing magnesium, boron, and Omega 3s to reduce anxiety, aches, and stress.

hello Activated Charcoal Epic Whitening Toothpaste

This fluoride-free toothpaste made with activated charcoal whitens teeth with consistent use, but the part we love the most is the sleek, aesthetically-pleasing packaging. Plus, it leaves a minty finish for fresh breath every time.

Tasty sauces for the best drizzling and baking: Coop's Original Hot Fudge & Salted Caramel Sauce

These award-winning toppers, from a women-owned company, make your desserts a little extra. (A little naked scoop once in a while is just as good too!)

For the friend who totally loves a cute hobby: Piecework Mini Zodiac Puzzle

Homebodies who love to puzzle will enjoy this mini stocking-size one inspired their zodiac sign!

For the at-home gym buff: CocoaVia Cardio Health Cocoa Powder Stick Packs

Hot chocolate, but make it healthy! These packets contain cocoa flavanols, which support heart health, and are perfect for adding to your yogurt, favorite drink, or even oatmeal. A heart-healthy stocking stuffer to show you love them....aww.

For the gal who loves a little lippie: Hydrashine Lipstick Balm Trio

This kit from Colleen Rothschild Beauty offers a range of buildable hues from barely there for staying in to bold for going out. Get a dewy, glossy finish inspired by your favorite travel destination, like Sipping Sangria red.

For the one who always has the best playlists: Burga AirPods Pro Case

Choose from more than 300+ unique designs and a matching set of cases for all your tech. Whether they're free spirits or v demure, there's a pattern for everyone.

For your bestie who adds a little extra oomph to her outfit: We Dream in Colour Gold Bird Earrings

Give your homebody a reason to dress up with these beautifully detailed brass birds, perfect for Zoom calls!

For the friend that's just a little easily overwhelmed: Ban.do Oversized Feel Better De-Stress Ball

Figure out your next life move with this squishy dice for stressful days.

For that person who always puts a smile on your face: FP Movement Smiling Buti Ankle Socks

Whether they're working out or Netflix marathoning, these performance-ready socks are fun and happy-inducing. One percent of FP Movement net proceeds benefit its non-profit partner Girls Inc.