


When dry skin runs short of oils and fats on its surface, water escapes faster, and skin starts to feel tight, look rough and flake. Shea butter puts back some of the oils and fats dry skin is missing, and your skin feels softer from the first use.
The short answer
Shea butter is a plant fat that softens dry skin and helps it hold on to its own water. It also carries plant compounds called triterpenes that calmed inflammation in laboratory research. Skin feels softer the same day, and tightness and flaking ease over the following weeks. It suits dry and eczema-prone skin.
What it does
Shea butter is a plant fat that softens dry skin and helps it hold on to its own water. It also carries plant compounds called triterpenes that calmed inflammation in laboratory research. Skin feels softer the same day, and tightness and flaking ease over the following weeks. It suits dry and eczema-prone skin.
The top layers of your skin are made of flattened cells, and they are not dead and irrelevant. They signal to the deeper layers to regulate hydration, collagen and cell renewal, which means a healthy barrier is what everything underneath depends on.
Water sits inside and between those cells, and a thin layer of oils and fats on the surface helps stop it from evaporating. Dry skin does not make enough of its own oil, which means it struggles to hold on to water too, and it needs barrier care all year rather than for a few weeks. When that layer runs thin, water escapes faster and the edges of the surface cells lift.
Shea butter is almost entirely fat. Stearic acid, which is solid at room temperature, gives shea its thick texture and the film it leaves behind. Oleic acid, which is liquid, helps it soften, spread and fill the rough spaces between your surface cells.
As an emollient, it smooths and softens, which you feel straight away. As an occlusive, its layer of oils and fats slows water evaporating from your skin, which eases tightness and flaking over the following weeks and gives your barrier a better chance to recover.
Shea also contains more triterpenes than most plant oils, including lupeol and the amyrins, and these calmed inflammation in laboratory research. That has not been confirmed in people, which is why we describe shea as a moisturizer first, with calming as a possible extra.
Shea comes from the nut of the shea tree, Vitellaria paradoxa, which grows across the African savanna from West Africa to Uganda. The kernels are dried, crushed, roasted and kneaded with water until the fat separates, and that fat is shea butter.
West African shea tends to be firmer and higher in stearic acid, and shea from Uganda softer and higher in oleic acid. The liquid part of shea can be separated out, and that is shea oil, also called shea olein.
The calming findings come from mouse skin and from immune cells grown in a dish, which is a starting point rather than proof of what happens on your face.
The human studies are small and test shea inside a finished formula. In a randomized, double-blind trial of 26 children with mild to moderate eczema, a shea butter and ceramide cream improved eczema scores by a similar amount to 1 percent hydrocortisone cream over eight weeks. Because the cream also contained ceramides, the result belongs to that formula rather than to shea alone. In an open study of 34 children, using products the manufacturer supplied, a cream with a shea extract eased itch for those who liked it, without changing how severe the eczema looked.
Shea butter appears as Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, sometimes with the botanical name Vitellaria paradoxa. Shea oil appears as Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Oil.
Unrefined shea is ivory to pale yellow, with a nutty smell. Refined shea is filtered, bleached and deodorized, which leaves it white and nearly scentless. Both moisturize. In one laboratory study, refining lowered shea's vitamin E and some of its plant sterols, which means unrefined shea generally keeps more of those smaller compounds.
Shea butter is thick and suits very dry areas and nighttime. Shea oil is lighter, and in the same study the liquid part of shea kept more of its vitamin E and plant sterols than the solid part did.
Most shea products are moisturizers or balms, which go on after cleansing and any serums, as your moisturizer step. Pure shea butter or a balm goes on last, at night or over your driest areas.
Shea pairs well with humectants, ingredients that draw water into your skin, such as hyaluronic acid and glycerin. Humectants bring water in, and shea slows that water from leaving. Ceramides, cholesterol and fatty acids are the three main fats holding your barrier together from within, and shea adds a protective layer on the surface.
On nights you use a retinoid or an exfoliating acid, apply the active first, onto clean skin, then shea, because a fat underneath can stop an active from working properly. Sunscreen every morning, reapplied through the day, since shea is not a sunscreen.
Usually yes, though it is still worth checking with your doctor or allergist first. Shea is a tree nut, but shea butter is almost entirely fat, with only traces of the protein that causes allergic reactions. A Mount Sinai study found no proteins in shea butter that antibodies from people with peanut or tree nut allergies recognized, and no immediate allergic reactions to it have been published. In 2025, the FDA also stopped counting shea nut as a major food allergen.
Whether skin products could sensitize someone has not been studied. Refining removes most of the protein, which is why it is worth asking your allergist about unrefined shea if your allergy is severe.
Not necessarily. Whether a product clogs pores depends on the whole formula, not on one ingredient in it. Ingredients can make one another more or less likely to clog pores, which is why the pore-clogging rating of a single ingredient cannot be used to judge a finished product. Those ratings come mostly from older animal tests on raw ingredients, and human testing has found that finished products containing them are not necessarily pore-clogging.
How the shea was processed matters too, along with how fresh it is and the quality of the nuts it came from, and some processors still use poor-quality sources. Many well-made formulas that contain shea are non-comedogenic, meaning they do not clog pores. If your skin clogs easily, use a new shea product on its own for four to six weeks to see how your skin responds.
Yes, with the dryness and barrier weakness that come with eczema. Moisturizing every day, including when your skin looks clear, strengthens the barrier between flares. Shea works alongside whatever your doctor has given you rather than replacing it.
Skin feels softer the same day. Flaking and roughness ease over two to four weeks of daily use as your barrier recovers. Photograph your skin on day one in natural daylight, then every four weeks, because gradual change is easier to see side by side.
Generally yes. Shea has no known concern in pregnancy, although like most skincare ingredients, it has not been tested on pregnant people. Check with your OB or midwife before starting anything new.
How to use it
A note on the evidence. Shea's moisturizing effect rests on well-understood chemistry: it is mostly stearic and oleic acid, fats that soften skin and slow water loss. Its calming compounds have been studied in mice and in cells, not yet in people. The eczema studies are small: one tested shea with ceramides, and the other used products the manufacturer donated. The allergy research is reassuring and limited.
Smooths and hydrates rough, crepey skin on the body with retinoid and AHA technology.
If you struggle with rough, dry, or crepey skin on your body, AlphaRet Body Overnight Cream is such a game-changer. My clients love how much softer and smoother their skin feels after just a few weeks. It hydrates deeply while gently resurfacing, so elbows, arms, and other stubborn areas finally feel refined and healthy. Itβs like giving your face-level skincare results to your whole body.
SkinBetter AlphaRet Body Overnight Cream brings the award-winning AlphaRet Technology to body care, pairing a retinoid with lactic acid to resurface and rejuvenate. This advanced formula targets rough, dry, flaky skin while helping to improve tone and texture, making skin look and feel smoother, softer, and more even over time.
In an 8-week study, participants experienced visible improvement in dryness, flaking, crepiness, and uneven tone. The formula combines gentle exfoliation with deep hydration, using skin-conditioning oils, humectants, and antioxidants to strengthen the barrier and support long-lasting moisture retention for more resilient, comfortable skin. Lactic acid exfoliates the surface while also providing hydration.
Designed for nightly use, even on sensitive skin, this cream improves the look and feel of arms, elbows, and other areas prone to roughness. Over 87% of study participants agreed their skin felt softer, smoother, and less thin or crepey, making it an ideal choice for year-round skin maintenance.
AlphaRet Body Overnight Cream goes beyond a simple moisturizer by addressing visible signs of aging on the body. With exfoliating acids, barrier-supporting oils, and antioxidants, it works while you sleep to reveal healthier-looking skin with minimal irritation. Apply a thin layer to clean, dry skin in the evening, all over or just on rough areas.
Retinoid and AHA blend that reduces wrinkles and smooths skin with minimal irritation.
If youβre struggling with fine lines, melasma, acne marks, or redness, SkinBetter AlphaRet Overnight Cream is one of the best retinoids Iβve worked with. It delivers powerful anti-aging and skin-repair benefits while being surprisingly gentle, even for my most reactive clients. Unlike most retinoids, it helps calm redness instead of making it worse.
AlphaRet Overnight Cream delivers the power of a retinoid and lactic acid in one innovative formula, designed to rejuvenate the skin while minimizing irritation. The formula visibly reduces the look of wrinkles and fine lines, improves texture, and restores a youthful radiance. Apply one pump in the evening after your serums, and wear sunscreen the next morning.
Unlike traditional retinoid-based products that can leave skin feeling tight or dry, this cream includes a deeply hydrating blend of ceramides, squalane, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid to keep your skin supple and comfortable. Itβs a rejuvenating treatment and moisture barrier support in one, making it perfect for maintaining healthy, glowing skin.
A targeted peptide blend works alongside vitamins C and E, Coenzyme Q10, and calming botanicals to defend against free radical damage and soothe visible redness. These synergistic ingredients not only enhance skinβs resilience but also help maintain a balanced, even complexion over time. This calming support means it can suit reactive skin as well.
Ideal for addressing multiple signs of aging at once, AlphaRet Overnight Cream helps smooth texture, soften lines, and promote a firmer look to the skin. Peptides help signal the skin to repair, firm, and rebuild itself. Its gentle yet effective formula makes it a great choice for those seeking professional-level results while staying comfortable on the skin.
A rich cream that mimics and reinforces your barrier while nourishing dry, sensitive skin.
I love using the GlyMed Barrier Cream in the treatment room, especially after peels or exfoliating treatments, because the skin barrier is always going to be a little compromised. Itβs just part of the process. It can be used instead of a daily moisturizer if you have dry, sensitive skin.
Formulated with ceramides, amino acids, and skin-replenishing fats, this Barrier Repair Cream mimics your skin's natural protective layer. It helps defend against daily environmental stressors, harsh weather, and moisture loss, keeping your skin consistently balanced and resilient. Ceramides 1, 3, and 6 help restore and strengthen the barrier, locking in moisture and protecting against irritation.
Specially designed for frail, dry, menopausal, or seasonally stressed skin, this cream nourishes and restores even the most delicate complexions. It suits thin, reactive, or maturing skin, delivering lasting, comfortable hydration. Use it on clean skin or after serums, in place of your regular moisturizer, whenever your barrier needs extra support.
This multi-benefit cream is expertly formulated to suit all skin types, from oily to dry, sensitive to mature. Whether your skin is fragile, stressed, or balanced, Barrier Repair Cream strengthens your skin's natural defenses for healthier, more resilient skin every day. The PC10 Complex boosts hydration, soothes inflammation, and supports recovery after peels and exfoliation.
Formulated with skin-replenishing amino acids, ceramides, and barrier fats, this cream mimics and supports your skinβs natural barrier. It locks in moisture, enhances elasticity, and promotes long-lasting hydration for visibly healthier skin across all ages and skin conditions. Amino acids support skin repair, while nourishing oils like jojoba and shea leave skin soft and balanced.
Visibly reduces the appearance of cellulite.
CelluliTx from Marini SkinSolutions is the topical I recommend to clients who want to do something about cellulite at home. I always set realistic expectations because cellulite is structural and no cream eliminates it completely. What this one does is genuinely improve the look and feel of the skin in those areas with consistent use. The key is applying it twice daily with massage so the actives can work properly. If you are consistent, you will notice a difference.
Marini SkinSolutions CelluliTx is a targeted body cream formulated with 11 active ingredients that work together to address the different factors contributing to the appearance of cellulite. Use it on the thighs, buttocks, hips, and upper arms, where results build with consistent use. Start once daily for the first week, then move to twice daily with massage.
Cellulite is an extremely common skin characteristic, present across all ages, body types, and fitness levels. It forms when fat cells push up through connective tissue, creating a dimpled surface. Because it is structural, a topical cannot remove it entirely, but it can improve circulation, support firmness, and soften the look of dimpling. CelluliTx is formulated to do all three.
Poor circulation in targeted areas is one of the key factors that worsens the appearance of cellulite over time. CelluliTx contains compounds that stimulate circulation and support the skin's underlying structure beneath the surface. With consistent twice daily application and massage, these actives help move fluid, reduce the puffiness that exaggerates dimpling, and improve how the skin looks and feels in treated areas.
Skin that has lost firmness and elasticity shows cellulite more prominently because it has less structural support to smooth over the underlying irregularities. CelluliTx contains peptides and retinol that support collagen production and skin renewal, helping skin become denser and more resilient over time. With consistent use, the surface becomes smoother, firmer, and more even in texture, which visibly reduces the appearance of dimpling.
Deeply hydrates, improves firmness, and defends skin against daily stressors for long-lasting balance.
If dryness, fine lines, or loss of firmness are on your radar, Daily Dynamic Hydrator is such a game-changer. It feels like a rich moisturizer but goes way beyond that, brightening, plumping, and strengthening the skin while defending against daily stressors. My clients love how quickly their skin looks smoother, more hydrated, and just overall healthier.
iS Clinical Daily Dynamic Hydrator is more than a moisturizer. It is a smart, high-performing hydrator that adapts to your skin's needs with a 3-in-1 formula that deeply moisturizes, defends against daily stressors, and smooths visible signs of aging. Apply one to two pumps to clean, dry skin after serums, morning and night, and follow with sunscreen during the day.
At the heart of Daily Dynamic Hydrator is iS Clinicalβs exclusive GeneXC Technology, blending potent Vitamin C with Extremozymes. This powerhouse duo works to visibly brighten dull skin, fight oxidative stress, and strengthen your natural barrier. The result is smoother, more radiant skin thatβs better protected against the environmental factors that age it.
With exosomes, peptides, and plankton extract, this hydrator goes beyond surface moisture to help visibly improve skin firmness and elasticity. It smooths fine lines and wrinkles, leaving skin looking plumper, more youthful, and deeply refreshed. Tripeptide-1 and exosomes also support barrier repair, so skin looks more lifted and resilient against environmental stressors.
Daily Dynamic Hydrator delivers visible, measurable results. In just two weeks, users saw improvements in hydration, firmness, and a reduction in lines and wrinkles. With results like 33% better hydration and significant decreases in forehead and eye lines, this moisturizer delivers visible changes you can trust.
A botanical balm that softens and heals dry, chapped lips with rich moisture that lasts.
If you get terrible dry lips like I do, youβll appreciate this lip treatment. It hydrates without feeling heavy, layers perfectly under lipstick, and actually helps keep your lips smooth and comfortable throughout the day.
Hydrating Lip Balm is a trusted choice for dry, cracked, or irritated lips. Packed with nourishing oils like jojoba, avocado, and sunflower seed, it delivers lasting moisture and relief from chapped skin, leaving lips visibly healthier and more comfortable. Apply it as often as you like throughout the day; it is easy to keep in your bag.
The rich formula glides on smoothly and forms a barrier that locks in hydration. Shea butter and olive oil help soften rough patches, while vitamin E supports healing and keeps lips looking youthful and smooth. Petrolatum creates a protective layer that locks in moisture and keeps lips from drying out.
Peppermint and spearmint oils give this balm a refreshing, gentle tingle. It feels cooling on contact and leaves a subtle minty finish, making it easy to wear every day or for quick touch-ups on the go. It also layers smoothly under lipstick, so you can keep your lips comfortable while wearing color.
Hydrating Lip Balm is not just about comfort; it is also designed to protect against visible aging. With antioxidant-rich botanicals and emollients, it helps maintain fullness and prevent fine lines, keeping lips soft, supple, and plump. Shea butter, packed with fatty acids and vitamins A and E, adds barrier support and calms dry or irritated skin.
Packed with antioxidants that brighten, firm, and defend skin from environmental damage.
If youβre dealing with dull, tired, or sun-damaged skin, Hydri-C is such a perfect fit. My clients love how it feels light yet still nourishing, so it works for both oily and dry skin types. With a stable form of vitamin C, it brightens and rejuvenates while also helping to protect against free radicals and daily damage. Itβs one of my favorite morning moisturizers for keeping the skin calm, refreshed, and glowing, and for minimalists, itβs perfect since you can skip a separate antioxidant serum.
This moisturizer blends stabilized Vitamin C with cutting-edge MicroFusion Technology to deliver radiance and hydration at the deepest layers. With just two weeks of consistent use, it helps brighten tone, support collagen, smooth fine lines, and improve elasticity, all while keeping the skin deeply nourished and protected.
Hydri-C uses MicroFusion Technology to ensure a potent but gentle delivery of actives, making it suitable for all skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone complexions that may react to stronger vitamin C formulations. Apply one to two pumps to the face, neck, and dΓ©colletΓ© morning and evening, then layer sunscreen on top in the morning.
Featuring tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate (a stable form of Vitamin C), Kakadu plum, green tea, jojoba, and shea butter, this moisturizer provides antioxidant protection and calming hydration while enhancing skin resilience and barrier support. Jojoba seed oil closely matches the skinβs natural sebum, and green tea extract adds anti-inflammatory and oil-regulating benefits.
The lightweight yet nourishing formula works as a reliable daily moisturizer that fights environmental stress, reduces fine lines, improves skin firmness, and promotes a healthy, even glow with consistent use. It works for both oily and dry skin, and for minimalists it can stand in for a separate antioxidant serum.
Instant tightening and lasting firmness for the face, neck, and dΓ©colletΓ©.
My clients with reactive skin love Hale & Hush HydroMelon Cream because it actually works for them. Obviously we want healthy, long-term results and that takes time, which is why I also love that this product gives a noticeable tightening effect immediately. Clients get to see and feel a difference while their skin is still rebuilding over time.
Hale and Hush HydroMelon Cream is a rich daily cream for the face, neck, and dΓ©colletΓ© that delivers two distinct results. It provides an immediate tightening and lifting sensation on application, and with consistent use it visibly improves firmness, density, and contour. Firming peptides, botanical oils, and barrier-repairing humectants make it a nourishing choice for sensitive, dry, and mature skin.
The immediate tightening effect is just the beginning. With daily use, HydroMelon Cream supports the structural proteins responsible for firmness, density, and resilience. A biomimetic peptide works at a cellular level to improve elasticity, reduce the appearance of fine lines and sagging, and help skin keep a more lifted, defined look. Results build over several weeks of twice-daily use.
A cream that lifts and firms but leaves skin dehydrated is not doing its full job. HydroMelon Cream contains a plant-derived humectant complex and barrier-repairing botanical oils that restore essential lipids, improve moisture retention, and strengthen the skin's protective function at the same time as the firming actives work. Skin stays deeply hydrated throughout the day and the barrier becomes more resilient with consistent use.
HydroMelon Cream is rich in nutrient-dense botanical oils, including watermelon seed oil, that nourish, protect, and restore radiance. These oils are high in essential fatty acids and antioxidants that replenish what aging and environmental exposure deplete, support cell regeneration, and leave skin visibly soft, supple, and luminous. They absorb into the skin without feeling heavy.
A super-lightweight moisturizer that strengthens the barrier, locks in hydration, and feels breathable.
Hyvia Cream is one I recommend all the time for clients dealing with dryness, sensitivity, acne, or melasma. What makes it so special is how lightweight it feels, yet itβs still nourishing enough to repair and support the skin barrier. My clients love that it gives them comfort and balance without any heaviness; itβs become a favorite for those who need hydration and protection but donβt usually get along with thicker creams.
Epicutis HYVIA Creme delivers deep, long-lasting moisture while actively repairing the skin barrier. Powered by patented HYVIA omega-rich chia seed oil and inflammation-calming technology, it is more than a moisturizer; it is a barrier-repair cream that restores balance and locks in comfort. Use it as the final step of your routine, morning and night.
If your skin barrier is damaged from over-exfoliation, acne products, clinical procedures, or environmental stress, HYVIA Creme helps rebuild it. It restores the skinβs natural fats, reduces transepidermal water loss, and supports microbiome balance, making it ideal for dry, reactive, or post-procedure skin. Shea butter adds essential fatty acids, vitamins A and E, and natural antioxidants.
This cream does not just sit on the surface. It works to lower skin reactivity by reducing inflammation at a cellular level. Using Epicutisβ patented TSC molecule and HYVIA oil, it helps visibly improve redness, irritation, and dullness caused by oxidative stress or compromised skin function.
HYVIA Creme delivers clinically backed results with a lightweight, nourishing feel. The formula is fragrance-free, and safe for all skin types, including the most sensitive. Use it day and night to seal in your routine and keep skin supple, smooth, and resilient. DSD, a patented antioxidant complex, helps reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the skin.
Stronger AlphaRet formula with added glycolic acid for enhanced texture refinement.
This heavy-duty treatment is best used after an experience with 1-2 bottles of (non Intensive) AlphaRet Cream or for those who still have texture after using the non-intensive version because it has 8% more glycolic acid in it. I highly recommend Intensive AlphaRet Overnight Cream for clients with thicker skin or who already have deeper wrinkles.
Intensive AlphaRet Overnight Cream is a powerful nighttime cream designed to improve the look of lines, wrinkles, uneven tone, and rough texture. Featuring AlphaRet Technology, a patented fusion of a retinoid and an alpha hydroxy acid, it delivers visible rejuvenation with minimal irritation. Apply one pump to a clean, dry face in the evening.
This version contains the highest level of glycolic acid in the AlphaRet line, working alongside lactic acid to retexturize skin for a smoother, more even appearance. The increased exfoliation power supports improved cell turnover, helping to diminish the look of discoloration, refine pores, and reveal a healthier, more radiant complexion.
A nourishing blend of ceramides, squalane, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid replenishes moisture and strengthens the skin barrier, counteracting the dryness often associated with retinoids. Calming agents such as allantoin, bisabolol, and green tea extract help soothe the skin, reducing visible redness and supporting a more comfortable nightly treatment experience.
Powerful antioxidants, including vitamins C and E and Coenzyme Q10, help neutralize free radicals that can accelerate signs of aging. This added environmental protection works in tandem with AlphaRetβs resurfacing benefits, making it ideal for those seeking advanced results without the downtime often linked to intensive treatments.
Peptide-rich cream that firms, smooths, and restores elasticity to face and neck.
If youβre struggling with loss of elasticity, crepiness, or deeper lines, SkinBetter InterFuse Treatment Cream FACE & NECK is incredible. Unlike quick fixes that only give a temporary plumping effect, this formula works deeper by stimulating five types of collagen. That means not only smoothing and filling in wrinkles, but also strengthening the skinβs structure for long-term firmness and lift.
InterFuse Treatment Cream FACE & NECK is designed to combat the visible signs of collagen and elastin loss, helping skin look firmer, smoother, and more lifted. This peptide-rich formula supports improved texture and tone, restoring a more youthful, resilient appearance to both the face and neck.
With its patented InterFuse Delivery Technology, this cream delivers potent ingredients into the skin where they can work. A specialized blend of collagen- and elastin-supporting peptides works to address sagging, crepiness, fine lines, and wrinkles, leaving skin looking revitalized and more supple. The peptides support the skin's structure, which helps firmness and lift last longer.
Glycerin, shea butter and other moisture-locking ingredients keep skin hydrated and comfortable while enhancing softness and elasticity. This balance of firming peptides and lasting hydration makes it an excellent choice for daily use on face and neck. Apply it after cleansing and your serums, following with sunscreen in the morning or layering it over serums at night.
Potent polyphenols from olive trees provide robust defense against free radical damage, helping protect skin from environmental stressors that can accelerate aging. The result is healthier-looking skin with improved radiance and resilience over time. Olive fruit extract, the source of these polyphenols, also helps reduce the look of redness.
A warming lip formula that plumps through natural vasodilation, reduces lip lines, and deeply nourishes.
If your lips feel dry but also look less full or less defined with age, GlyMed Plus Lip Enhancer is a really nice combination of nourishment and circulation support. The vasodilation effect gives the lips a healthier fuller look while ingredients that support collagen help improve the lip border and overall lip quality over time.
GlyMed Plus Lip Enhancer is a peptide-rich daily lip product that plumps, deeply hydrates, and reduces fine lines around the lips. Natural vasodilators create an immediate warming sensation that stimulates blood flow for a fuller, more defined look on contact. Rich in nourishing emollients and antioxidants, it cares for the lips as skin, not just as a cosmetic concern.
GlyMed Plus Lip Enhancer creates fullness through circulation. Its natural vasodilators gently dilate blood vessels to increase blood flow to the lips and produce a genuine plumping effect without relying on irritation. The warming sensation is mild and fades quickly, leaving lips looking fuller and feeling comfortable rather than reactive, which suits those who want plumper lips without discomfort.
Vertical lines above and below the lip border are among the earliest signs of facial aging and some of the hardest to soften. GlyMed Plus Lip Enhancer contains a peptide that reduces the muscle contractions behind expression lines, alongside collagen-supporting amino acids that help restore definition to the lip and surrounding skin.
The lips have no oil glands, which means they depend heavily on topical hydration to stay soft, comfortable, and resilient. GlyMed Plus Lip Enhancer delivers a rich blend of shea butter, cocoa seed butter, sunflower oil, grape seed oil, and xylitol that nourish the lip tissue deeply and help prevent the chronic dryness, cracking, and dehydration that accelerate the formation of lip lines over time.
A mineral sunscreen with a soft glow tint that protects from UV and soothes skin.
Itβs always hard to find a skin toneβcorrecting SPF that doesnβt give cakey coverage or mess with your natural skin, especially if you donβt wear makeup. As someone whoβs been using tinted SPF for 19 years, Iβm obsessed with how lightweight this one is. It feels like nothing on the skin, but gives you an instant glow-up. It doesnβt just protect; it soothes, calms redness, balances oil, helps with dryness and even supports acne-prone skin. Total game-changer.
This daily-use sunscreen delivers SPF 30 broad-spectrum defense with 21% non-nano zinc oxide, offering safe and effective coverage against UVA and UVB rays. Unlike chemical filters, zinc oxide sits on the skinβs surface to reflect and scatter light, making it gentle, non-irritating, and suitable even for sensitive or post-procedure skin.
Powered by Princeton-developed TSC technology, this formula goes beyond UV defense by calming inflammation, reducing redness, and preserving collagen integrity. By protecting against UV-induced stress, it helps minimize signs of aging like fine lines and uneven texture while also improving skin resilience, leaving your complexion smoother, stronger, and more balanced.
Unlike sunscreens that only shield, Lipid Shield actively works to restore skin health. Antioxidants such as vitamin E and squalene support barrier strength while shea butter and sunflower seed oil lock in moisture. Together, these ingredients help repair existing UV damage, soothe irritation, and maintain supple, hydrated skin throughout the day.
With a silky, lightweight texture, this sunscreen stays put even during sweat or activity without clogging pores. Its hydrating, non-greasy finish makes it comfortable for daily use and it layers beautifully under makeup with no pilling. By combining effective sun care with restorative benefits, it keeps your skin calm, protected, and radiant.
Paired set of Lipid Serum and Hyvia Crème to hydrate, repair, and strengthen the barrier.
The Epicutis Luxury Skincare Set is such a powerful duo. The Lipid Serum gives instant relief to dry, stressed skin, while Hyvia Cream adds the extra nourishment my clients with acne, barrier issues, redness, or aging concerns love. Together, they leave the skin plump, calm, and balanced, without ever feeling heavy.
The Epicutis Luxury Skincare Set combines two of their formulas into a curated regimen that soothes, restores, and strengthens your skin barrier. Perfect for sensitive, post-procedure, or inflamed skin, this set delivers professional-grade results without compromising comfort or simplicity. Use one or two drops of serum on damp skin morning and night, then follow with HYVIA Crème.
Each product in the Luxury Skincare Set features Epicutisβ TSC molecule, a clinically studied anti-inflammatory that calms skin at the cellular level. Paired with the barrier-boosting power of HYVIA and bio-compatible ingredients, this routine supports long-term skin health, clarity, and visible resilience. TSC also supports collagen production and repair at the cellular level.
The Epicutis Luxury Skincare Set features Lipid Serum and HYVIA Crème, two powerhouse formulas designed to calm inflammation, restore the skin barrier, and lock in hydration. This simple yet effective duo supports skin recovery after cosmetic procedures, helps reduce redness and irritation, and improves texture and tone with consistent use.
Designed by scientists and trusted by professionals, this set is fragrance-free and safe for all skin types, including acne-prone, rosacea, and post-procedure skin. You get clinical-grade results and a simplified routine that leaves skin looking and feeling better every day. During the day, finish with SPF for complete protection.
For acne, acne marks, aging, pigmentation, and sensitive skin.
I am obsessed with PDRN, it works for basically every skin concern and every skin type. Acne, aging, pigmentation, texture, pores, it addresses all of it. I especially love recommending it for PIE and PIH because it actually helps the skin recover and repair faster. It has been studied extensively, it is gentle enough for sensitive skin, and that combination is rare.
PDRN stands for polydeoxyribonucleotide, a compound made from purified DNA fragments that the skin uses as building blocks to repair itself. Applied topically, it supports fibroblast activity responsible for collagen and elastin production while helping reduce inflammation. For aging skin, this means the skin has more of the raw materials it needs to do its own repair work better.
When collagen production is supported and cellular repair is functioning well, fine lines fill in gradually and skin maintains more of its structural density over time. Marini Reboot supports both processes at once, helping skin feel firmer and more resilient and lines appear softer with consistent daily use. Its peptide complex works alongside PDRN to reinforce collagen-building pathways.
PDRN has been shown in medical studies to inhibit melanogenesis, the process that produces pigment in the skin. This means it helps keep excess pigment from forming new dark spots and supports a more even, brighter tone over time. With turmeric root extract, ginseng, and saccharomyces ferment, Marini Reboot addresses dullness and uneven tone from several angles for a more luminous look.
PDRN is a potent anti-inflammatory compound, which makes Marini Reboot particularly effective for skin that is reactive, stressed, or recovering from environmental exposure. The formula also contains lactobacillus ferment and saccharomyces lysate for microbiome support, which helps maintain the skin's natural defense systems and reduce the chronic low-grade inflammation that accelerates aging. Skin looks calmer, more even, and more stable with regular use.
A lush cream cleanser that removes makeup, oil, and impurities without stripping skin.
Mega Cream Cleanser is one my go-to's for clients who are feeling dry, reactive in general, in the winter or post-treatment. It removes makeup and sunscreen without stripping, and leaves your skin soft, calm, and moisturized. I love using it as a first cleanse; it makes everything that comes after work better. Definitely one of my top recommendations from Glymed <3
GlyMed Plus Mega Cream Cleanser gently dissolves makeup, oil, and debris while nourishing the skin. This cream-based formula offers a deep clean without harsh stripping, perfect for the first cleanse of your nighttime routine. Safe for lash extensions and sensitive skin, it delivers comfort and care with every use.
Infused with antioxidant-rich vitamin E and sunflower seed oil, Mega Cream Cleanser helps protect skin from environmental damage while softening and smoothing. It combats dryness and free radicals that contribute to premature aging, making it ideal for dry, mature, or sensitized skin types. Glycerin helps maintain hydration, so skin feels soft and comfortable after rinsing.
Shea butter and oat extract support a calm, hydrated complexion. Lavender, rosemary, and olive leaf extracts add a soothing botanical boost, while magnesium ascorbyl phosphate (a stable vitamin C) brightens and defends against dullness. The lush cream texture comforts the skin without clogging pores. Cocoglucoside, a gentle coconut-derived cleanser, lifts away dirt and oil while respecting moisture balance.
This is your trusted first step for makeup removal and pre-cleanse prep. Whether you wear SPF, foundation, or just want a gentle reset, GlyMed Plus Mega Cream Cleanser is a versatile, nourishing start to any skincare routine. Massage one to two pumps into dry skin, add water for slip, rinse, and follow with your second cleanse.
Gently exfoliates and smooths rough skin for a softer, healthier-looking glow.
If your body skin feels rough, dull, flaky, or uneven, Epicuren Mint Renewal White Sand Body Polish is one of my favorite body exfoliants because it leaves the skin incredibly smooth without feeling harsh. The mint gives a refreshing cooling sensation, and the skin feels softer after just one use.
Mint Renewal White Sand Body Polish is a dual-texture body exfoliant combining volcanic rock and Bora Bora sand with sugar and salt to slough away rough, dry skin. Cooling peppermint and nourishing oils leave skin smooth, polished, and refreshed without stripping. Used a maximum of twice weekly, it is recommended for all skin types. Not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Dead skin cells accumulate on the body over time, creating rough patches, dullness, and uneven texture. Mint Renewal combines volcanic rock, Bora Bora sand, and pumice with sugar and salt for a dual-action physical exfoliation that buffs away this buildup. Skin feels immediately smoother and looks more polished after a single use, with continued improvement from twice-weekly application.
Peppermint oil delivers an instant cooling sensation that wakes up tired skin while providing antiseptic and antibacterial properties that help keep skin clear and balanced. The cooling effect also soothes minor irritation and inflammation during the exfoliation process, making the experience as comfortable as it is effective. Combined with rosemary leaf oil, this scrub turns a routine exfoliation step into an invigorating sensory ritual.
Physical scrubs can leave skin feeling stripped if they are not balanced with nourishing ingredients. Mint Renewal counters this with coconut oil, jojoba seed oil, and shea butter that condition the skin during the scrubbing process, replenishing moisture rather than depleting it. Skin is left feeling soft and hydrated immediately after rinsing rather than tight or dry, which is what makes regular use sustainable.
Topical complement to injectables + refines pores & smooths texture.
One of the most interesting products I add to my clients' lineup because it works on two levels. As a daily serum it genuinely improves texture and pore appearance on its own. And for clients who get injectables, it is an excellent complement that supports recovery and helps extend results. I recommend NeuroSmooth by Marini SkinSolutions to anyone focused on texture and smoothness - whether or not they are getting procedures, or for clients who do not want or cannot get Botox.
For clients who receive neuromodulator or filler procedures, NeuroSmooth is formulated to work alongside them. Applied daily before and after each appointment, it supports faster recovery, reduces redness and bruising, and targets the same collagen-building pathways that injectables address. It can be started right after an injectable procedure, alongside your provider's aftercare, and helps extend results between appointments.
Expression lines form where the skin folds repeatedly over time and where collagen has broken down beneath the surface. NeuroSmooth works at both levels, reducing the repetitive micro-movement that deepens lines while actively supporting collagen and elastin production to rebuild the skin's structural foundation. With consistent use, fine lines appear softer and the skin maintains a smoother, more resilient surface.
Enlarged pores and rough texture come partly from collagen loss and partly from repetitive micro-muscular contractions just beneath the skin's surface. NeuroSmooth addresses both. Its neuromodulating peptides reduce these surface-level contractions while its collagen-stimulating compounds support the skin's structural density. In clinical studies, 91% of subjects noted visible improvement in both pore size and texture with consistent use.
Whether skin is reacting to environmental stress, a new product, or a recent injectable procedure, NeuroSmooth contains a dedicated recovery and soothing complex that helps calm visible redness, reduce puffiness, and support the skin's ability to repair itself. Vitamin K1, arnica, and soothing peptides work together to accelerate recovery and restore an even, comfortable skin tone.
Enzyme body exfoliant that smooths rough texture and leaves skin soft and radiant.
If you love the idea of body exfoliation but do not love aggressive scrubs, Epicuren Papaya Pineapple Bamboo Body Polish (my favorite!) feels balanced. The combination of fruit enzymes and bamboo helps smooth rough texture while leaving the skin feeling soft and not stripped. I love this scent! When I have time I leave it on for 3-5 minutes to loosen the dead cells with enzymes and then scrub it gently.
Epicuren Discovery Papaya Pineapple Bamboo Body Polish is a luxurious creamy exfoliant that combines physical bamboo particles with papaya and pineapple fruit enzymes to gently buff away dead skin and reveal a brighter, smoother complexion. Rich in antioxidant grape seed oil and nourishing botanicals, it hydrates as it exfoliates, leaving skin soft, smooth, and refreshed. Cruelty-free and vegan, recommended for all skin types.
Papaya Pineapple Bamboo Body Polish exfoliates in two ways at once. It combines bamboo stem extract for gentle physical exfoliation with papaya and pineapple enzymes that naturally dissolve the bonds holding dead skin cells in place. Using both methods together gives a thorough exfoliation that still feels gentle and comfortable on the skin, without needing to scrub hard.
Dull skin on the body is often the result of dead cell buildup that blocks light reflection and leaves skin looking flat. The papaya and pineapple enzymes in this body polish naturally break down that buildup, revealing brighter, more luminous skin underneath. With regular use, skin tone looks more even and refined, and accumulated dullness becomes noticeably less pronounced.
Exfoliation should not come at the cost of hydration. This body polish is formulated with grape seed oil and extract, rich in protective bioflavonoids, alongside jojoba oil and shea butter that nourish the skin during the scrubbing process. Rather than leaving skin stripped, the creamy texture melts in and conditions as it exfoliates, so skin feels moisturized, soft, and smooth immediately after rinsing.
Creamy anti-aging cleanser that hydrates, smooths, and supports skin firmness while cleansing.
If your skin feels dry, tight, depleted, or more reactive with age, GlyMed Plus Peptide Firming Cleanser cleanses without leaving the skin stripped afterward. I recommend it a lot for normal to dry skin types and clients focused on healthy aging because it gives more cushioning and comfort during cleansing while keeping the skin soft and hydrated.
GlyMed Plus Peptide Firming Cleanser is a luxury second-cleanse formulated with a proprietary peptide complex, copper, botanical extracts, and plant oils that firm, hydrate, and promote healing at the cleansing step. Applied to dry skin and massaged for two full minutes before rinsing, it functions as a treatment that nourishes and supports skin structure rather than simply cleansing. Pregnancy safe and oncology safe.
Dry, rosacea-prone, compromised, and post-procedure skin needs a cleanser that actively supports recovery. GlyMed Plus Peptide Firming Cleanser contains rose, primrose, arnica, yarrow, echinacea, and horsetail, a blend of botanical anti-inflammatory actives that calm redness, reduce irritation, and support the skin's healing process at every cleanse. For consistently reactive skin, cleansing becomes a calming step in the routine.
Dry and mature skin can lose moisture during the cleansing step. GlyMed Plus Peptide Firming Cleanser contains shea butter, hyaluronic acid, plant oils, and rich emollients that replenish the skin while you cleanse. After rinsing, skin feels noticeably more hydrated, supple, and comfortable, which suits dry and mature skin that needs extra nourishment at every step.
Cleansers applied over makeup, sunscreen, and daily buildup spend most of their time removing surface debris rather than delivering actives. GlyMed Plus Peptide Firming Cleanser is designed for use after a first cleanse removes that layer. Applied to clean, dry skin, its peptides, botanicals, and copper stay in direct contact with the skin during a two-minute massage.
Nourishing SPF 60 body and face oil that protects without a white cast.
I really like how this feels on the face and body. It gives the skin a beautiful glow without feeling like a traditional sunscreen and it does not leave a white cast, which makes it especially perfect for dry and darker skin tones. It also works beautifully on the body right after a shower to seal in moisture while protecting against UV and aging. GlyMed Plus Pure Glow SPF 60 Oil can be used as the last step of your skincare routine before makeup. You can layer moisturizer underneath if you need it, but apply the sunscreen on its own rather than mixing it with your moisturizer or foundation so you get the intended SPF protection.
GlyMed Plus Pure Glow SPF 60 Oil is a luxurious antioxidant-rich body oil that delivers broad-spectrum SPF 60 protection with a nourishing, luminous finish. It hydrates, smooths, and leaves skin soft, radiant, and beautifully protected. Available in spray and pump formats, it is designed for anyone who refuses to compromise between protection and elegance.
UV exposure is the primary driver of premature aging, uneven tone, and long-term skin damage on both the face and body. Pure Glow SPF 60 Oil combines four chemical UV filters for broad-spectrum SPF 60 coverage against both UVA and UVB rays. Apply generously 15 minutes before sun exposure and reapply every two hours or after swimming, sweating, or towel-drying.
Pure Glow SPF 60 Oil nourishes skin while it protects. It is built around a base of argan oil, shea butter, coconut oil, and olive oil that nourish and condition the skin throughout the day on both face and body. Rather than sitting on top, the formula absorbs into the skin and leaves it feeling genuinely soft and supple.
The finish of this oil is one of the things that sets it apart. Rather than a white cast or heavy feel, Pure Glow SPF 60 Oil leaves skin with a naturally luminous, radiant appearance that looks healthy and intentional. It is the kind of finish that makes skin look better with SPF on, which makes wearing it consistently easy.
A soothing arnica cream that calms inflammation and supports skin recovery.
I recommend the GlyMed Recovery Cream for skin that feels very irritated or βangry,β even when the barrier itself is still intact. Itβs especially helpful after lasers, extractions, or when someone is dealing with deep inflamed acne and wants to help prevent post-acne marks and scarring. I also suggest it for very reactive skin that needs calming support. In some routines it can be paired with the GlyMed Barrier Repair Cream for additional barrier support.
GlyMed+ Recovery Cream with Arnica is designed to help calm inflamed or stressed skin while supporting the skinβs natural healing process. The formula works to reduce visible redness, swelling, and irritation, helping skin appear more balanced and comfortable during periods of sensitivity or recovery. Use it morning and evening, or whenever skin feels irritated or stressed.
Botanical extracts and nourishing oils help reinforce the skinβs protective barrier while supporting resilience against environmental stress and inflammation. By maintaining hydration and calming irritation, the formula helps create a healthier skin environment that supports skin stability. Grape seed oil adds antioxidant protection and nourishment, while evening primrose extract helps soothe irritation and support the barrier.
Arnica extract is traditionally used to help reduce the appearance of bruising and swelling while encouraging circulation and recovery. Combined with antioxidant-rich botanicals, the formula helps improve skin tone and comfort while supporting smoother, calmer-looking skin. This makes it a helpful choice after lasers or extractions, when skin needs calming support during recovery.
This cream works well for individuals experiencing redness, irritation, or skin stress from acne or environmental triggers. Its nourishing texture provides calming hydration while helping maintain skin comfort, making it a useful addition to routines focused on skin recovery and soothing care. It can be used on its own, after serums, or in place of your moisturizer.
Growth factor and peptide serum that firms, smooths, and regenerates.
Regeneration Booster from Marini SkinSolutions is one of those products I recommend when a client's skin needs more than what a standard anti-aging routine is giving them. Growth factors are not an ingredient most people know to look for, but the results speak for themselves. What I love about this one is that it addresses so many concerns at once and there is zero irritation, which means it works for all skin types including sensitive.
Marini SkinSolutions Regeneration Booster is a patented growth factor and peptide formula that supports the skin's own regeneration processes to visibly reduce signs of aging. In an independent physician study, 100% of subjects showed improvement across wrinkles, texture, pore size, elasticity, clarity, and hydration. It is suitable for all skin types and works at any stage of an anti-aging routine.
Growth factors are proteins that occur naturally in the skin and play a central role in cellular repair and regeneration. They signal skin cells to produce collagen, renew themselves, and keep skin firm, smooth, and resilient. This activity slows with age, and Regeneration Booster delivers a concentrated blend of clinically studied growth factors that support these processes directly.
When the skin's repair and collagen-building processes are well supported, fine lines fill in gradually. Regeneration Booster pairs growth factors with seven peptides that signal collagen and elastin production, improve elasticity, and reduce the depth of fine lines and wrinkles over time. In the clinical study, 94% of subjects reported superior satisfaction in skin quality after three months.
Crepey skin and under-eye circles involve both a loss of hydration and structural thinning. Regeneration Booster pairs its growth factors with ceramides, shea butter, mango seed butter, and hyaluronic acid, so it hydrates deeply while supporting the cellular repair that improves skin density. With consistent use, skin looks more supple, and crepey texture and under-eye circles appear softer.
Brightens dark circles and reduces puffiness with TriHex peptides, for thicker, stronger-feeling skin.
If the under-eye area is starting to look thinner, crepey, puffy, or tired overall, ALASTIN Skincare Restorative Eye Treatment helps target all of those concerns at the same time over time. What I appreciate about this formula is that it focuses on improving the overall quality and strength of the skin instead of only temporarily hydrating the area. My clients notice improvement in puffiness, dark circles, fine lines, and texture, and it also wears beautifully under makeup.
Restorative Eye Complex is formulated specifically for the fragile skin around your eyes. Powered by TriHex Technology, it smooths fine lines, reduces puffiness, and brightens dark circles for a refreshed, youthful look. Apply one pump around the eyes morning and evening. It can go on the upper lid area beneath the brow bone, but not on the eyelid itself.
This lightweight formula delivers deep hydration while supporting collagen and elastin production. It visibly firms and lifts the eye area, helping to restore a smoother, tighter appearance without irritation. Niacinamide helps improve tone, texture, and barrier function, while green tea extract adds antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits for a brighter, calmer look.
Clinical studies show visible improvements in skin texture, elasticity, and brightness around the eyes. Consistent use leads to a more rested and revitalized look that keeps getting better over time. Many people notice improvement in puffiness, dark circles, fine lines, and texture as the skin around the eyes looks thicker and stronger.
Fragrance-free and non-irritating, this formula is safe for all skin types, even sensitive eyes. Its quick-absorbing texture layers perfectly under makeup, making it easy to integrate into your morning and evening routine. Its TriHex Technology peptide blend supports the skinβs natural ability to clear damaged proteins, helping the delicate eye area look smoother.

SkinBetter Science
Smooths and hydrates rough, crepey skin on the body with retinoid and AHA technology.

SkinBetter Science
Retinoid and AHA blend that reduces wrinkles and smooths skin with minimal irritation.

GlyMed
A rich cream that mimics and reinforces your barrier while nourishing dry, sensitive skin.

Marini SkinSolutions
Visibly reduces the appearance of cellulite.

iS Clinical
Deeply hydrates, improves firmness, and defends skin against daily stressors for long-lasting balance.

GlyMed
A botanical balm that softens and heals dry, chapped lips with rich moisture that lasts.

Hydrinity
Packed with antioxidants that brighten, firm, and defend skin from environmental damage.

Hale & Hush
Instant tightening and lasting firmness for the face, neck, and dΓ©colletΓ©.

Epicutis
A super-lightweight moisturizer that strengthens the barrier, locks in hydration, and feels breathable.

SkinBetter Science
Stronger AlphaRet formula with added glycolic acid for enhanced texture refinement.

SkinBetter Science
Peptide-rich cream that firms, smooths, and restores elasticity to face and neck.

GlyMed
A warming lip formula that plumps through natural vasodilation, reduces lip lines, and deeply nourishes.

Epicutis
A mineral sunscreen with a soft glow tint that protects from UV and soothes skin.

Epicutis
Paired set of Lipid Serum and Hyvia Crème to hydrate, repair, and strengthen the barrier.

Marini SkinSolutions
For acne, acne marks, aging, pigmentation, and sensitive skin.

GlyMed
A lush cream cleanser that removes makeup, oil, and impurities without stripping skin.

Epicuren
Gently exfoliates and smooths rough skin for a softer, healthier-looking glow.

Marini SkinSolutions
Topical complement to injectables + refines pores & smooths texture.

Epicuren
Enzyme body exfoliant that smooths rough texture and leaves skin soft and radiant.

GlyMed
Creamy anti-aging cleanser that hydrates, smooths, and supports skin firmness while cleansing.

GlyMed
Nourishing SPF 60 body and face oil that protects without a white cast.

GlyMed
A soothing arnica cream that calms inflammation and supports skin recovery.

Marini SkinSolutions
Growth factor and peptide serum that firms, smooths, and regenerates.

Alastin
Brightens dark circles and reduces puffiness with TriHex peptides, for thicker, stronger-feeling skin.
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Allantoin for Rough, Dry and Irritated Skin
Allantoin softens rough, flaky skin and soothes irritation, and the US FDA recognizes it as a skin protectant. Here is how it works, what the research shows and how to use it.
Centella for Redness and Reactive Skin
Centella calms inflammation, helps skin hold on to water and supports repair after irritation. Here is what the research shows, what cica means on a label and how to use it.


