March 19, 2024

Welcome back, Shoppers.

Spring is springing 💐 — and because of that, we’re thinking about how we can thoughtfully revamp our routines (and our spaces) without spending a fortune. We’re sharing everything from skincare and homeware to a game we’re playing and a powerful vac that’s on sale. Let’s get to it…

Between the countless social media trends and it feeling like there’s a new skincare line every day, figuring out what to use is confusing. So today, we’re chatting with Dr. Shereene Idriss, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Idriss Dermatology, to get an idea of what exactly we should be doing. Psst…she even has a line herself we’re obsessed with.

For our readers building out their routine, what products are must-have investments?

Building a skincare routine can be overwhelming with new products appearing on the market. Everyone needs four basic things. Number one, a cleanser to get all the grime off from the day. Number two, a targeted serum focused on your skin’s biggest issue, whether that’s dark spots, or redness, or fine lines and wrinkles. Number three, a moisturizer to hydrate your skin and four, the nonnegotiable, sunscreen.

What's the biggest skincare social media hack or trend that's actually not good for your skin?

Flooding your skin with moisture to achieve “glass skin.” Dry and dehydrated skin is the exception here, but not everyone needs to load on layers of hydration. It can actually be counterproductive if not necessary. Your skin is a living and breathing organ that fluctuates with your mood and environment. The goal is to have minimal inflammation to keep your skin in a happy, healthy state.

If our readers are new to you and your line, what products should they start with?

The Depuffer is a universal SOS product for various concerns. It’s a serum in a roller that delivers active ingredients to reduce puffiness long after you’re done rolling. It’ll also reduce redness in the process. So if you wake up puffy every morning, or flush easily post-workout or from other lifestyle triggers, it can definitely help.

What's your favorite unconventional way to use a product from your line?

My skincare routine actually starts before I even get out of bed in the morning. The first thing I do is roll on The Depuffer to help my puffy eyes, and by the time I’m out of the shower, in less than 15 minutes, the puffiness is already reduced.

What's the one skincare step that's a can't-miss for our readers' busy schedules?

Sunscreen. Sunscreen. Sunscreen. Can’t stress it enough, but the reality is if you’re not wearing sunscreen, everything else you’re doing is basically useless so just wear the damn sunscreen.

Shark’s Cordless Pro Stick Vacuum (which is currently $201 off at Walmart). It has sensors that’ll detect the debris you can’t see, powerful suction, and can turn into a handheld dustbuster. It’ll last up to 40 minutes on a single charge, and has an LED display. The best part? It has HEPA filtration to snag any allergens too. Grab it while it’s still on sale and in stock — it’s a noteworthy alternative to another popular brand (IYKYK).

In our series (Not So) Silly Little Treat, Skimm’rs share the joy-sparking products they’re buying during the week. Today’s submission? A chandelier under $70 that’ll update your closet lighting:

“After separating from my husband last year, I’m living on my own for the first time. Needless to say, I’ve been going nuts decorating my apartment to match my exact vision, with the freedom of not having to ask anyone else’s opinion. One of the little things that’s brought me the most joy: replacing the light in my walk-in closet with this black chandelier. It took the space from “rented apartment” to “spooky feminine chic,” which is pretty much exactly the vibe I’m embodying these days.” —Lia G., 29, Charleston, SC