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.
Amazon
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.
Amazon
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.
Amazon
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.
Amazon
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
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.
We’re total sneaker heads over here, so we’re uber excited for what spring has to offer in the shoe department. It appears spring 2025 is brimming with fresh sneakertrends that embrace all things colorful and retro – a power combo! If you’re looking to step up your ‘fits with something a lil’ bit different on your feet, this season’s kicks are anything but basic.
Urban Outfitters
Pink sneakers are popping off this spring, ranging from pastels to bold, hot pink shades. They’re the perfect sneakers to snag if you’re seeking a seasonal pop of color!
Anthropologie
For a playful feel, wear hot pink kicks with an all-black outfit to make them stand out. For a more femme look, wear some pastel pink sneakers with light-wash jeans and a flowy white top.
Onitsuka Tiger
Inspired by vintage running shoes from the ‘70s and ‘80s, retro track sneakers are definitely on the come-up. Brands are continuing to bring a mix of nostalgia and sporty aesthetics to the forefront, and we couldn’t love it more!
Saucony
These sneaks are not only stylish, but practical, too! Seek out a comfy pair with some chic suede detailing or bold color blocking. Whether you pair ‘em with wide-leg trousers for a vintage-inspired outfit or biker shorts for a lax weekend look, a good set of bold retro sneakers will undeniably turn heads your way.
Keen
We’re starting to spot hiking-inspired sneakers on the street more and more. Technical shoe brands like Keen and Salomon have styles that are both functional and fashionable!
Salomon
With rugged soles, durable materials, and utilitarian designs, these shoes provide unmatched comfort, too. To give your ‘fits a sportier vibe, try hiking sneakers with cargo pants and a fitted tank top. For added contrast, certain styles also look ahh-mazing with mini dresses and denim jackets!
Free People
Customizing your look is key in 2025 – so sneaker charms let you infuse your kicks with personality! From pearls and pendants to lace and beads, you can truly find sneaker charms of all kinds… or make your own!
Dolce Vita
Shoe charms also work well beyond sneakers. You can easily tack them onto boots or loafers!
Subscribe to our newsletter to shop more seasonal fashion trends!
Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
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.
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.
Amazon
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.
Amazon
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.
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.
Amazon
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.
Amazon
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.
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.
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.
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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
As far as I'm concerned, 2024 was Daisy Edgar-Jones' year. The Normal People actress captured our hearts with her role as Kate in Twisters (as well as her viral Hot Ones interview with Glen Powell and "Apple" TikTok dance). But while Kate led a pretty adventurous life, her risk threshold is nothing compared to Daisy's newest character, Muriel, in On Swift Horses.
Living in post-Korean War California, Muriel's life with her husband Lee is disrupted when Lee's brother Julius arrives in all his addictive, charming glory. The film, based on Shannon Pufahl's 2019 book of the same name, made its world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival on September 7. Here's everything you need to know.
Luc Montpelllier
Muriel begins a new life with her husband Lee when he returns to California from the Korean War. But the life they're building together — and their future — changes forever when Lee's brother Julius, a headstrong gambler, arrives. Julius is attractive, charismatic, and hiding plenty of secrets.
According to the official synopsis, "when Julius takes off in search of the young card cheat he’s fallen for, Muriel’s longing for something more propels her into a secret life of her own, gambling on racehorses and exploring a love she never dreamed possible."
Luc Montpelllier
The story explores LGBTQ+ identity and desire in the 1950s, but does so with a hopeful tone rather than a devastating one. “The first scenes that we filmed were the scenes we had together, so we got all of that done with—when we were apart, we had put the groundwork in,” Daisy tells Vanity Fair of working with Jacob, who adds, "I believe Taylor Swift calls it an invisible string.”
"I loved the connection between gambling and risk-taking, and pushing the boundaries of her desire and what she’s looking for,” Daisy adds. “Muriel’s rebellion throughout the film is quite quiet, in the small ways in which she takes back her power by concealing things. A lot of what’s happening is behind closed doors.”
Luc Montpelllier
On Swift Horses stars Daisy Edgar-Jones, Jacob Elordi, Will Poulter, Sasha Calle, and Diego Calva.
"It's not hard to make chemistry with Jacob because he's just so charismatic," Daisy said during a Q&A, via People, adding that the script "felt almost like reading poetry and so much of what happens is in the subtext."
"This movie is just about love,” Calle added. “It’s important to just feel that — whoever that might be, where that takes you. It’s important to feel that and to feel safe in it.”
Luc Montpelllier
On Swift Horses premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival on September 7, and is currently looking for a distributor. Check back here for news on its release date!
As charming as Julius appears in the teaser trailer, his brother Lee tells Muriel they live differently than he does. "He's just not like us," he says before a scene cuts to Muriel exploring her own "passions." Based on this, On Swift Horses appears to blur the lines of love, lust, secrets, and recognizing one's identity.
Read up on Andrew Garfield and Florence Pugh's We Live In Time, which also premiered at TIFF last year!
Lead image via Robin Marchant/Getty Images
This post has been updated.
The 2000s were a wild time for movies. It was an era of debatable fashion, even more questionable humor, and films that, looking back, we can't believe ever made it past a pitch meeting.
While certain movies from this nostalgic period remain classics, others haven't aged very well. Whether they're filled with problematic tropes or outdated stereotypes, here are the 10 cringey 2000s movies that wouldn't stand a chance in Hollywood today.
Summit Entertainment
When Twilight premiered in 2008, it became an instant sensation and sparked a cultural obsession with supernatural romance. However, while it left an undeniable mark on pop culture, this film has some major underlying issues.
Once viewed as swoon-worthy, Bella and Edward's relationship feels problematic in hindsight. He was controlling, exhibited stalker-like behavior, and gaslit her into believing that she imagined his supernatural abilities.
Add in the fact that Edward is technically over a century old when Bella is a high schooler, and it's clear why Twilight might not resonate with audiences the same way in 2025.
Universal Pictures
Directed by Judd Apatow, Knocked Up was initially well-received despite heavily leaning on outdated gender stereotypes. The movie follows responsible and career-driven Alison, who is forced to navigate an unplanned pregnancy with slacker Ben.
Even though Knocked Up delivers plenty of laughs, it also portrays women, especially Alison, as rigid and joyless. Katherine Heigl, the lead actress, criticized this, too, saying the film "Paints the women as shrews, as humorless and uptight, and it paints the men as lovable, goofy, fun-loving guys."
Dreamworks
This movie might've showcased Eddie Murphy's ability to transform into multiple characters, yet Norbit is still more cringeworthy than comedic. The portrayal of Rasputia, an over-the-top and domineering woman whose character is built around fat-shaming jokes, is particularly offensive.
Moreover, Murphy also plays Mr. Wong, a wildly stereotypical caricature of an elderly Chinese man.
20th Century Fox
Shallow Hal may have set out to deliver a message about inner beauty, but it really missed the mark. Again, this film relies on fatphobic humor, with Gwyneth Paltrow's character serving as the target of the jokes.
It arguably reinforces stereotypes about weight and attractiveness, and Gwyneth (who wore a fat suit) actually called the movie a "disaster" in 2020.
Columbia Pictures
Featuring over-the-top humor and absurd disguises, White Chicks was a hit in 2004. Nonetheless, it's a tired portrayal of women as materialistic, shallow, and obsessed with their looks.
The premise involves two FBI agents posing as socialites during a Hamptons weekend, and it was always meant to be ridiculous. Even so, there are certain scenes that are especially questionable, like when an athlete at the club attempts to spike a woman's drink.
Universal Pictures
Brüno was intended to be a bold satire, Sacha Baron Cohen's specialty, but it crosses the line of edgy humor. He plays an exaggerated, flamboyant Austrian fashion journalist, and the mockumentary was meant to expose homophobia.
Despite that, the movie incorporated a lot of outdated gay stereotypes and might've reinforced the notions as opposed to challenging them. In fact, Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD) representative Rashad Robinson called the work "problematic in many places and outright offensive in others."
New Line Cinema
Wedding Crashers revolves around two men who lie their way into weddings to manipulate women into sleeping with them. At its core, the film's plot is unsettling and questionable.
Aside from that, it features gay stereotypes, a racist grandmother, and scenes that blur the lines of consent. All that being said, t's obvious why this movie wouldn't fly today.
New Line Cinema
The Notebook is still one of the most favored romance movies of all time, so this may be an unpopular opinion, but some of its most iconic moments are more disturbing than anything.
There's no denying that Noah and Allie's love story is passionate, but his relentless pursuit of her is borderline manipulative. Remember when he threatened to let go of the Ferris wheel if she didn't go on a date with him?
Plus, once they actually get together, their relationship is filled with constant fighting, including scenes when Allie hits Noah. Female-on-male violence has traditionally been glossed over in films, but today, Hollywood is moving away from these problematic depictions.
Paramount Pictures
This movie follows advice columnist Andie Anderson, played by Kate Hudson, who wants to write an attention-grabbing piece. She finds Ben Berry, an advertising executive who's arguably creepy and manipulative.
While How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days may be a classic rom-com, it relies on gender stereotypes that can feel more offensive than humorous now.
Paramount Pictures
Finally, we can't forget about Mean Girls, one of the most iconic teen comedies of the 2000s. Sure, it's filled with endlessly quotable lines and a sharp take on high school cliques, but it also has relentless body-shaming.
Many of the scenes would hit differently in today's more body-positive era, making Mean Girls a more cringey watch in 2025.
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