My Easy “Pre-Gym” Makeup Routine (so I look alive but not overdone)

Tinted Moisturizer with SPF

For the base of my gym makeup, I love Crunchi’s Sunlight® Tinted SPF 30. A simple base makes my skin look even and more awake, which is my goal. It’s lightweight with just the right amount of coverage. It’s not greasy or drying, either. It contains non-nano mineral zinc oxide which is a super safe form of SPF, along with vitamin C and niacinamide to brighten the skin and minimize the appearance of pores. Of all the tinted moisturizers I’ve tried, this is the best. If I wear any makeup to gym workouts, it’s this.

Use code ADVOCATE20 for 20% off through September. I have a full review of the Crunchi makeup I’ve tried here.

Colleen Rothschild Illuminating Tinted Eye Cream

I always use the Colleen Rothschild Illuminating Tinted Eye Cream in the morning. It’s a multi-tasking product that combines the benefits of both concealer and eye cream. It’s made with hyaluronic acid, which helps with water retention and reduces the appearance of wrinkles. And the pearlized pigment cuts the darkness of under-eye circles so it also has a brightening effect.

Use code TERILYN20 for 20% off your Colleen Rothschild order and read my full Colleen Rothschild review here.

Brow Gel

Brow gel is a non-negotiable for me. I even did my brows when I ran the Boston Marathon years ago. It makes me feel awake even when I’m struggling after a long night with Charles. I have a few different brands in my makeup drawer, but I like the ILIA Brow Gel in the mornings when I’m not doing full makeup, since it’s clear. Read my full ILIA makeup review here.

Lip Balm

The best lip balm I’ve ever used in my life (no, seriously) is the Oliveda Olive Tree Therapy Lip Balm. It lessens the redness around the outside of my lips, which is so nice. I usually put a little bit of foundation around my mouth to cut the redness, but I don’t have to when I use this balm. It’s currently sold out, so join my Oliveda Restocks channel on Instagram, and I’ll let you know when it’s back. It’s worth the wait, I promise.

You can read my full Oliveda skincare review here.

I have my favorite running gear linked in this blog post, and I also have the best Amazon workout picks rounded up in this post if you’re shopping for workout gear.

The post My Easy “Pre-Gym” Makeup Routine (so I look alive but not overdone) appeared first on TeriLyn Adams.

As a skincare and makeup junkie, there are very few brands I haven’t tried. However, there’s one brand that I was wary of trying for a while: Crunchi. I had heard that their products didn’t apply well or stay on well, and considering I have high standards when it comes to makeup, I wasn’t interested. Yes, I prefer clean and safe products, but they must perform as well as my non-clean makeup. And in my experience with Beautycounter (another clean, non-toxic brand that recently shut down) the makeup didn’t last very long or look very good (with a few exceptions like the foundation and lipsticks).

So when a friend of mine sent me some Crunchi makeup to try a few weeks ago, I was skeptical. It’s rare that a product blows me away, so I’m shocked to admit that there are now a handful of Crunchi products that have made their way into my daily makeup routine. I really like these products. I applied them for the first time on camera in this reel.

In this post, I’ll share some background on Crunchi, including what makes it a clean brand, what kind of products they carry, and how shopping from Crunchi works. I’m also sharing a detailed review of the products I’ve tried and my recommendations for what you should buy and skip.

Let’s jump in.

My Crunchi Makeup Review (what I like and what I don’t)

Is Crunchi Truly Non-Toxic?

Yes! Crunchi is known for being a squeaky-clean beauty brand. They test every ingredient they use, and everything in their products has been validated as “safe” via a 30-step screening process. They have a long list of “banished” ingredients you’ll never find in their products. See the Crunchi banished ingredients listed on their website here. The US doesn’t have a standard definition of “toxin-free” in the beauty industry. Still, Crunchi has defined “toxin-free” this way: It does not contain any ingredients known to cause harm or health hazards, based on available ingredient data and research. Non-toxic makeup is better for you because it reduces the risk of skin irritation, allergies, and long-term health issues. It’s also generally safer for the environment.

Every single Crunchi product is vegan (with one exception- the Hydrogloss Lip Oil contains organic beeswax) and gluten-free. And while almost every ingredient is natural, Crunchi does include a few synthetic ingredients (safety tested, of course) to help with performance, efficacy, and longevity. One of my favorite things about Crunchi is that its products are made here in the USA. Read more about Crunchi’s mission and safety standards on this page.

Okay, let’s get to the good stuff now!

My Crunchi Makeup Review

I haven’t tried any Crunchi skincare, but if and when I do, I’ll report back on that as well. Today, I’m breaking down the best (and worst) Crunchi makeup products, along with my recommendation of buy, maybe buy, or don’t buy. I also have a Crunchi promo code at the bottom of the post, if you decide to buy anything!

Beautifully Flawless Foundation – Maybe Buy

The Beautifully Flawless Foundation makes my skin look really good. It’s a medium to full coverage foundation (more on the full side). I’ve found it challenging to find a non-toxic full-coverage foundation, and this isn’t perfect. I don’t love how it feels on my face for the first 30 minutes after I apply it – it’s heavy until it settles in. I think this is an excellent option if you’re looking for a non-toxic, full-coverage foundation, but I still reach for other foundations in my bag more often.

The main ingredients in this foundation are snow mushroom, organic botanical sunflower and aloe. The Snow mushroom hydrates, smoothes, and plumps the skin, while the sunflower and aloe give you a smooth, buildable texture.

Sunlight® Tinted SPF 30 – Buy

The Sunlight® Tinted SPF 30 is a definite yes. This is my favorite Crunchi product by far, since it’s the perfect tinted moisturizer! Not too much coverage, not too little, not too greasy, not too drying. I’ve tried many different brands (Beautycounter, Ilia, Elta MD, Wonderscreen, Tarte) and I like the Sunlight® Tinted SPF 30 the very best. If you buy just ONE thing to start, get this

It’s hydrating, and the SPF does not dry me out (rare for tinted moisturizers). The coverage is better than the other clean-tinted moisturizers I’ve tried. It also doesn’t have any weird smells, unlike my other favorite tinted moisturizer (Ilia Super Serum Skin Tint, which I’ve also reviewed) and it doesn’t leave my skin looking greasy (like Dime Beauty Wonderscreen, another clean brand I’ve reviewed).

This tinted moisturizer’s SPF is non-nano mineral zinc oxide, a safe form of SPF. It also contains vitamin C and niacinamide to brighten the skin and minimize the appearance of pores. Squalane and hyaluronic acid help hydrate and lock in moisture.

My Alibi® Liquid Concealer – Buy

Definite yes. The My Alibi® Liquid Concealer brightens and covers so well – it even covered my dark circles flawlessly on a particularly hard day, after being up all night with my baby. I love the small packaging too. I’ve been grabbing this over my Tarte concealer (reviewed here) and ILIA concealers. It’s made with a superfruit oil blend, which hydrates, smoothes, and depuffs the under eyes. It also contains snow mushroom, which gives it that smooth texture and helps brighten the area under the eyes.

Cheekmate® Liquid Blush – Buy

Absolute yes. The Cheekmate® Liquid Blush is the second-best Crunchi makeup product I’ve tried (or maybe tied with the concealer!). It’s super pigmented and looks fantastic once you buff it in. If you’re new to liquid blush, however, it may take a bit to get used to. You only need a tiny dot of product and blend it very well with a fluffy brush, since it’s easy to overdo it.

The pigment is made of 100% pure earth pigments that are naturally derived and long-lasting. Plant squalane gives it a smooth, lightweight texture. Snow mushroom and meadowfoam seed oil hydrate and plump the cheeks, and licorice root extract is a natural antioxidant that protects the skin from environmental stressors.

Nutribrow® Eyebrow Pencil – Buy

The Nutribrow® Eyebrow Pencil is another definite yes for me. The color is the best I’ve ever found in a brow pencil and easy to apply. However, it doesn’t have any fancy frills that other brow pencils do (you have to sharpen it yourself, and it doesn’t have a spoolie on the end), but I still find myself using it over my other brow products and just grabbing another spoolie to brush after applying.

This pencil is made with fruit waxes, which keep the brows defined and sculpted.

Everluxe® Lip Crayon – Maybe Buy

The Everluxe® Lip Crayon is a “maybe” for me. I like how it looks and applies, but it has a very weird smell that turns me off. I rarely use it for that reason, but when I do, I love how it looks. This crayon is made with 100% pure earth pigments that are naturally derived and long-lasting and fruit waxes that give it a natural glide.

Hydrogloss® Lip Oil – Maybe Buy

I am not a huge gloss girl in general, but this Hydrogloss Lip Oil applies well and looks nice. It’s not sticky, and I like the shade options. This is more a preference than a true opinion, since I’m not a gloss person.

This gloss is made with organic beeswax which gives it high shine, an organic fruit blend for hydration, and 100% pure earth pigments for natural color.

Highliner® Pencil Eyeliner – Don’t Buy

HARD pass. This Highliner Pencil Eyeliner has a very stiff consistency and is very difficult to use. It required so much effort to apply that it actually irritated my eyes. If you really want a safe eyeliner, I suppose you could use this, but you may need to warm it up under a blow dryer to get it to work. I’d buy Ilia’s Gel Liner instead.

This eyeliner is made with sunflower seed oil for a creamy smooth application (I did not think it was smooth), and fruit waxes for smudge-proof wear.

Shadow Bar® Enchanted Neutrals – Don’t Buy

Hard pass on this, too. I reacted to the Shadow Bar Enchanted Neutrals eyeshadow (which I realize might not be the case for most), but I also don’t like the pigment or staying powder as much as other eyeshadows I have.

These shades are made of 100% pure earth pigments for long-lasting color (these are heavy metal tested) and organic olive and jojoba oils for smooth, buildable texture.

What is Crunchi’s Return Policy?

You can try Crunchi products for 30 days; if you aren’t happy with them, they’ll refund you. Unfortunately, you do have to pay for return shipping.

Where to buy Crunchi makeup?

Crunchi makeup is only sold online and has a direct-sales business model. In this model, someone receives a commission when you buy Crunchi using their link (this is called affiliate marketing). Like a realtor makes a commission when they sell you a house, I’ll make a commission when you buy Crunchi using the links in this post (so thank you!).

Bottom Line

I have been pleasantly surprised by Crunchi’s makeup. It performs better than expected, and I absolutely love the blush, tinted moisturizer, and brow pencil. Don’t forget that you can use the Crunchi Makeup coupon code ADVOCATE20 for 20% off orders when you use my Crunchi link.

The post My Crunchi Makeup Review (what I like and what I don’t) appeared first on TeriLyn Adams.

The bottom line is yes, the T3 curling iron is worth investing in. In this post, I’m sharing why it’s better than cheaper ones and which model to get.

For years, I’ve much preferred curling my hair rather than blowing it out straight. With some curl to it, I feel more polished, and my hair is more comfortable during the day, since it stays out of my face more easily.

Here’s my tutorial showing how I curl my hair. And while practice makes perfect, I do believe the right curling iron will make it SO much easier, and will make your hair look so much better.

T3 Curling Iron Review (and which model to get)

Before T3, I used the Hot Tools curling iron and thought it was fine. But when the spring broke, I invested in the T3 Singlepass Curl X curling iron since T3 hair curlers had great reviews. And I LOVE it. Here’s why:

My curls hold their curl longer.

The iron feels sturdier, and the clamp is easier to use (it never creases my hair)

My hair is in better shape with this curling iron, since it heats more evenly (more on that below).

It holds up much better. I had to replace my Hot Tools every 12-18 months because the clamp would break. I’ve used my T3 multiple times a week for four years, and it’s still in perfect condition.

I’ll share more details about it below, including pros and cons, but the short story is that it’s worth investing in.

T3 Single Pass Curling Iron

The T3 Single pass Curl X is what I own and recommend. This curling iron is a traditional clip barrel curling iron, and the barrel does not detach from the base. It’s the most affordable curling iron T3 offers at $149.99 and it’s been a GREAT curling iron for four years and counting. 

The Singlepass curling iron has a few barrel sizes, but I like the 1.25″ because it’s the most versatile size for all hair lengths. I prefer casual curls, and this size gives me the perfect defined curl that falls out perfectly over the rest of the day.

While they sell other curling irons, the Singlepass is the simplest to use and most people really don’t need many more bells and whistles. The best place to order your T3 curling iron is directly from T3 because they will handle issues if yours is not working properly, but they sometimes go out of stock. Amazon also sells T3!

Details

• 5 heat settings and a smart microchip to keep temperature fluctuations in check (which prevents damaging hair)
• Custom blend ceramic plates give a shiny finish.
• Works for most hair lengths.
• The longer barrel makes it faster and easier to curl longer hair, but it still works for shorter hair. 
• Multiple heat settings: provides the optimum heat level for any hair type. I love this! I use the hottest setting on my hair since I have pretty thick hair. Cool tip & stand: enables easy styling without burning your hands or getting your counter too hot.
• 360° 8 ft. swivel cord: prevents cord from getting tangled or twisted.
• 1 Hour Auto Shut Off: a must-have so you don’t ever have to second-guess if you turned off your curling iron.

Pros

• Curls last all day – I always use styling cream, and I’m sure that partially helps, but I do think the fact that the T3 gets hotter than cheaper curling irons helps the curls hold. 
• No temperature fluctuations prevent it from getting too hot and damaging your hair. This makes it an especially great curling iron for fine hair, which can be more prone to damage, but it also works well for thick hair. (I have fine hair, but I have a lot of it.)
• The clamp is sturdy and has a tighter spring than most curling irons. This not only prevents it from breaking but it also makes it easier to curl your hair, especially when you’re learning since it gives you more control.
• It’s cute. I like the all-white design and sleek components. It doesn’t impact the performance but I appreciate it. 

Cons

• The price point may turn some people off, especially if you’ve spent $20 on curling irons in the past, but I easily spent $100 on curling irons that I had to replace every 1-2 years. But I do think the quality of this curling iron justifies the price. I’m listing it as a con simply because I think more people would be on board if it it was closer to $100.

Price

$149.99

If you change your hair length a lot, like to style your hair in many different ways, or you’re a professional stylist, you may want the T3 that has interchangeable barrels, but I think that’s overkill for the average person. 

T3 also makes popular curling wands that don’t have a clamp, but so many people burn themselves on them or have to put on gloves, which seems annoying. Plus, I find a curling iron with a clamp gives me more variety in the types of curls I can make. If you are set on getting a T3 curling wand, they do have good reviews!

How to use a T3 Curling Iron

How to use a T3 Curling Iron

I have a hair-curling video tutorial below, and I also have a blog post with pictures of the finished look, plus the products I use to help my curls last. 

What makes T3 different? Is it worth it?

In 2003, T3 was started as part tech start-up, part beauty venture. They wanted to reinvent hair styling by creating new styling tools that were technology-forward, fast-working, and designed with high performance and better results in mind. I truly think they nailed this. They offer different kinds of hair tools, including hair dryers, flat irons, curling irons, and other hair styling accessories. 

I own the travel-sized hair dryer and LOVE it (I’ll never use a hotel hair dryer again), and I recently got the Airebrush and it’s been life-changing as well (here’s a video of how I use it). And the T3 hair dryer is better than the viral Dyson hairdryer (I own both). I have a full review of the T3 blow dryer here.

T3 makes a lot of curling irons, including 4 sets, as well as an option to create your own set with a convertible curling iron and attachments. They’re all a little different, so you’ll want to do a little research based on what you’re looking for.

Bottom line: Is the T3 curling iron worth it?

Yes, it’s more expensive than most curling irons on the market, but my hair is in better shape, and I’ve spent less money, since I don’t have to replace my curling iron as frequently. The best place to order your T3 curling iron is directly from T3, just in case you have any issues – they will take great care of you. Amazon also sells T3.

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I started using tubing mascaras because regular mascaras smudged on me, no matter what kind I tried – whether they were from the drugstore or a high-end company.  In this post, I’ll explain why tubing mascara is different from others and a roundup of the best tubing mascaras on the market.

But I’m a bit of a mascara snob, and I don’t think I’ve ever found a mascara that has met every single one of my requirements, and I’ve tried dozens. For years, I struggled to keep my regular mascara from smudging or transferring onto my skin and I couldn’t figure out why. It turns out, I need a water-based mascara instead of an oil based option, which is the difference between tubing mascara vs regular mascara.

10 Best Tubing Mascaras

Tubing mascara is similar to both fiber and curling mascaras in that it works to thicken, lengthen, and curl your lashes, but because the tubing formula actually has polymers instead of fibers that wrap around each individual lash, it doesn’t flake off in your eyes or smudge.

What is Tubing Mascara?

The reason tubing mascara is called “tubing” is because of its unique formula containing polymers that wrap a “tube” around each lash, creating a very even coat. Celebrity makeup artist Gilbert Soliz explains tubing mascara as, “liquid lash extensions.” Regular mascaras require multiple coats, which tend to weigh down your lashes (and also tends to clump if you’re not super patient with application!) so it can also be hard to get a wide-eyed look, given the weight.

Since the tubes from tubing mascara grab each lash and lifts, it creates a lengthening, wide-eyed effect. Tubing mascaras are also more rubbery, so they don’t smudge, hold amazing curl, and are long-wearing.  This might make you think that tubing mascara would be difficult to remove at the end of the day, but the opposite is actually true.

Most tubing mascaras are actually water-soluble, which means they come off with just a little bit of warm water, and gentle pressure. (I use warm water and a washcloth to gently wipe mine off at the same time I remove my makeup with this cleansing balm.) As you wipe away the mascara, you are wiping away the “tubes,” which fall away easily without leaving a runny black trail of mascara on your sink (actually VERY satisfying).

Since traditional mascara is oil-soluble, they require a true eye makeup remover for removal.

They also smudge more easily if you have oily eyelids (which is my issue!). Tubing mascaras are great for people with sensitive skin and eyes, oily lids, or allergy-prone eyes because the tubes do not smear or run on your skin or in your eyes after they’ve set (moi!).

Okay, now that we have some background, let’s chat about various brands of tubing mascaras. Here are the most popular tubing mascaras on the market, including my favorite.

My Top Pick: Tarte Tartelette Tubing Mascara

My #1 pick is the Tarte Tartelette Tubing Mascara. This mascara is made with moisturizing castor oil, conditioning shea butter and carnauba wax that volumizes and lengthens. It’s cruelty-free and vegan (love that) and the best part…it doesn’t need very many coats to lengthen your lashes (even though I like a bold look and use 3, and I often use this Tarte Opening Act lash primer with mascara). It also never clumps.

This one is my personal favorite because the ingredients are actually good for your lashes and it just looks GOOD.  It’s lightweight and keeps lashes looking natural. I use it almost exclusively now. The wand is also easy to use and applies without clumping, and the formula is neither too wet, nor too dry like others I’ve tried. Tarte did recently release an XL version of this mascara that gives an even bolder look, and I love that one too. I outlined that specific mascara below in this post.

Trish McEvoy High Volume Tubular Mascara Jet Black

This Trish McEvoy High Volume Tubular Mascara is polymer-based mascara, which is water-resistent throughout the day, yet slides off with just warm water when you’re ready to remove it. It’s free of phthalates, sulfates, and gluten, and it is also vegan.  To use this mascara, just start at the base and wiggle the wand in a zigzag motion.  This mascara is popular for many, but for me, it didn’t give me enough volume. If you like a more natural lash look, this a good choice.

Tower 28 MakeWaves Lengthening + Curling Clean Mascara

If you’re looking for a great mascara wand – look no further than the Tower 28 MakeWaves Lengthening + Curling Clean Mascara. It’s flexible and made with three different types of bands that lengthen and define each lash.  The formula is “clean,” cruelty-free and vegan and uses Aquaflex Technology, which is usually used in hairstyling. This technology defines curled hair (or lashes) and gives lasting curl and definition all day.

The vitamin B5 and castor oil help to keep lashes soft, moisturized, and stronger. This is an Allure Best of Beauty winner, so it comes highly recommended. Also, not necessarily important, but the branding is SO cute. It’s on my list to try! If you’ve tried it, I’d love to hear your thoughts.

Thrive Causemetics Liquid Lash Extensions Mascara

The Thrive Causemetics Liquid Lash Extension Mascara is my second favorite tubing mascara, and I used it for years before trying the Tarte mascara above. Made with shea butter and castor seed oil, this product is 100% vegan and cruelty free and is available in three different colors.

It’s great for sensitive eyes (made without parabens, phthalates, sulfates, and synthetic fragrance) and safe for contact lens wearers, it’s even tested and approved by dermatologists and ophthalmologists.

If you’re one to leave your mascara on overnight sometimes, this mascara won’t leave your eyes irritated the next day. For me, it was too wet for the first few weeks that I used it, making it difficult to build and it also dried out quickly and got clumpy. I felt like it only had a few weeks where the formula was perfect, but I did like it until I found a better option.

MAC Extended Play Gigablack Lash Mascara

MAC Extended Play Gigablack Lash Mascara is great if you want defined lashes because it has a smudge-proof, carbon-black formula. The petite brush has bristles that are dense and short so they are able to grip every lash, making this formula especially great for lower lashes. Makeup artist Lavonne claims this mascara is an “industry pro standard.”

Because MAC works to lift, coat and separate, however, it isn’t as successful in adding a lot of volume. The formula is just a little too thin.

Hourglass Unlocked Instant Extensions Lengthening Mascara

If you want very long lashes, this Hourglass Unlocked Instant Extensions Lengthening Mascara is a great option. Using film-forming technology, this mascara adds length, lift and definition.  It is vegan and cruelty free. When using, you just want to pull the brush out straight from root to tip.

I do like this but just wasn’t as impressed as I was with Tarte. I felt like the wand was too flimsy, which made it difficult to get the right pressure to apply and lift.

Tarte Tartelette XL Tubing Mascara

Tarte recently launched the updated version of the Tartelette Tubing Mascara: XL tubing mascara. I love this mascara because it has all of the same qualities as the original but with more length and volume. It lasts for 24 hours without flaking (why you’d want it to last that long is beyond me, though!). The tubing XL peptide blend gives extra length, lift, and pigment. If you’re choosing between the original and this, you just have to decide if you like a super bold lash (this one) or if you prefer a more subdued, natural looking lash (original).

Kevyn Aucoin The Volume Mascara

With a “rich pitch black” color and volumizing formula, this Kevyn Aucoin The Volume Mascara is a favorite for many. The tiny bristles grip your lashes and intensify the volume. Jojoba oil then works to keep your lashes soft and shiny.

The only negative is that this mascara creates gummy-like tubes, making it more difficult to remove. The product can dry out in the tube rather quickly, as well.

Caliray Come Hell or High Water Volumizing Tubing Mascara

If you’re looking for a mascara to really curl your lashes, this Caliray Come Hell or High Water Volumizing Tubing Mascara is for you. The bristles have wavy brush fibers that allow you to coat and curl every lash. For extra curl, apply starting from the base of your lashes and working your way up. The application AND removal is smooth and easy. I personally haven’t tried this mascara, but reviews say it provides medium volume that’s not feathery.

Essence Bye Bye Panda Eyes! Mascara

Inexpensive ($5 on Amazon!), yet effective, this Essence Bye Bye Panda Eyes! Mascara helps your lashes look thicker, more defined, and longer. It doesn’t flake or smudge and takes just a single coat for application. It does apply wet, though, so it can take a little more time to dry than most.

Bottom Line

If you have the same smudging issues as me, tubing mascara is your answer. It’s been such a game-changer for me, and I absolutely love how easy it is to remove. In fact, when I use a regular mascara (for a special occasion when I want a ton of impact), I’m always annoyed that it smudges after a few hours and then always groan and complain when I have to take it off since it feels like SO MUCH WORK.

If you’re choosing one to try first, I recommend the Tarte Tartelette Mascara (I have a detailed review of the Tartelette mascara linked here). It’s my all time favorite at a great price, and I have a coupon code for you to use ;). If you order directly from Tarte, use code terilyn15 for 15% off your order.

If there’s a tubing mascara that’s not included in this post that I need to try, let me know in the comments!!

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Oliveda sells a group of products called “internals” that not only help with skin issues and anti-aging but also help with inflammation and joint pain. Unlike common skincare products like cleansers or serums, the internals work from the inside out, targeting the root causes of skin issues. They’re meant to be ingested, just like a supplement. I’ve been taking Oliveda internals for two months and have noticed a significant difference in my inflammation and joint pain, so they’re now must-haves for me.

I had a pretty traumatic C-section earlier this year, and it’s been hard to get my inflammation back down. My joint pain (which I’ve struggled with as I’ve gotten older) has been significantly worse since then. So I’m doing everything I can to decrease inflammation, and the Oliveda internals, specifically i66, i01, and the OliveMush — are must-haves in my routine now. You can see the rest of my supplement routine in this post.

In this post, I’ll explain the Oliveda internals and how they can improve your health and skincare routine. If you’re interested in Oliveda’s skincare, read my Oliveda review here.

Oliveda Internals: My Experience + Why I take them

Key Ingredients

Oliveda has three main products—i01, i66, and i70—designed to be used as daily supplements, each targeting different aspects of skin health. They also have a coffee substitute, OliveMush, that I definitely don’t use first thing in the morning, but it has helped replace my afternoon latte habit (most days anyway!). I also tried the Olive Matcha, and it tastes awful, so skip that altogether.

The key ingredient in all of these products is hydroxytyrosol (as with all Oliveda products). Hydroxytyrosol (Olive Leaf Extract) is a super powerful antioxidant that has a ton of benefits for your skin (brightens dark spots, protects from environmental stressors, etc.). It’s also known for its anti-inflammatory benefits. It can even reduce the risk of coronary heart disease and atherosclerosis.

Why Internals Matter for Your Skin

Your skin is your largest organ and often the first indicator of internal imbalances. Issues like rosacea, redness, inflammation, and unexplained acne can often be traced back to internal factors. By addressing these issues from within, Oliveda internals can help heal your skin even with the most basic skincare routine (and you’ll obviously see more results by using the right products on your skin. Here’s my skincare routine).

The Core Products

I01 Orac & Camu Camu Olive Leaf Concentrate

The I01 Orac & Camu Camu Olive Leaf Concentrate is the very first product that Oliveda released and inspired its entire skincare line. Thomas Lommel started Oliveda after he experienced the powerful benefits of olive tree extracts in his own health journey. At 33, Thomas was dealing with an illness, and regular medications weren’t helping. He started treating his illness with olive tree extract, and his health completely changed. You can read more about his story and how Oliveda came to be here.

When Thomas started Oliveda, the I01 internal was his first product. I = Internal (and you’ll see “F” on the face products), and the number corresponds to the order in which the products were created. For example, F59 (Oliveda’s famous Botox in a Bottle) stands for Face and is the 59th product in Oliveda’s lineup.

I01 has a high concentration of antioxidants and camu camu, which is exceptionally high in vitamin C. It’s also rich in iron, making it an excellent postpartum supplement. 

Benefits

The combination of vitamin C and iron helps improve ferritin levels, and the hydroxytyrosol is high in antioxidants, which helps decrease inflammation. Managing inflammation is particularly important as we age or after major injuries or surgeries (like a c-section). And, if you struggle with low iron like many women, iron + camu camu is great, since iron is absorbed better when paired with vitamin C. 

Personal Experience

Even though my iron levels have stabilized and my c-section scar is healing nicely, I continue to take I01 daily for its anti-inflammatory benefits. The difference is noticeable—my joint pain returns if I skip it for a few days. While the taste isn’t great, I take it like a shot to get it down.

I70 The Beauty Fountain + Hyaluron

The I70 The Beauty Fountain is a drinkable supplement designed to enhance your skincare routine from the inside out. It’s packed with antioxidants and hyaluronic acid and promotes hydration and firmness.

Benefits

Oliveda’s I70 promotes cell protection, reduces pore size, strengthens nails, firms skin, decreases wrinkles, and imparts an overall glow. It also contains lavender, camu camu, and turmeric.

Personal Experience

I started using I70 before I66 was available, and I was pleasantly surprised by its taste. And my skin started glowing after using multiple Oliveda products (no really, look at my Oliveda before and after here).

I66 The Beauty Fountain + Collagen

Similar to the I70, the I66 The Beauty Fountain + Collagen includes the added benefit of bioavailable collagen, which is crucial for skin, bone, and connective tissue health. As we age, our bodies stop producing as much collagen, which results in our bodies feeling stiffer and less agile, our skin begins to sag and wrinkle, and our hair begins to thin. The joys of getting older and wiser! 

Your body starts to decrease collagen production in your 20s, and you lose about 1% of your collagen every year, so by age 50, you have nearly 30% less collagen than you did at 20 and almost 50% less collagen by the time you’re 70. So, if you’re closer to age 40 than you are 30, I’d suggest taking i66 rather than i70, but either one will benefit you if you can’t grab i66 while it’s in stock (it sells out fast!!).

Benefits

Collagen supports strong joints, elastic skin, protects your organs and is essential for maintaining the health of both your body and your skin. Benefits for your body include improved joint mobility and lubrication, reduced joint pain and achiness, healthy cartilage and connective tissue, and improved muscle tone. For your skin, the collagen paired with hydroxytyrosol will help your skin’s appearance with increased hydration, firmness and elasticity, and reduced appearance of wrinkles.

Personal Experience

I take I66 even though I think I70 tastes better because I want the added collagen. Since I turn 40 in a month, I want all the help I can get with skin elasticity and maintaining joint health. While it’s obviously better to get collagen from your diet, that’s not always realistic, so this helps supplement gaps in my diet (I especially don’t want to brew up bone broth since my hands are very full with a toddler and an infant).

OliveMush

OliveMush is a coffee alternative made of hydroxytyrosol, organic cacao, Mediterranean herbs, and functional mushrooms. It also contains cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, black pepper, turmeric, and chili.

Benefits

OliveMush is similar to coffee in that it gives you that daily “ritual”, but there’s no caffeine. It still gives you that energy and focus you need due to the mushroom blend that’s made with Lion‘s Mane and Cordyceps, just without the caffeine crash and jitters. The mushroom blend is also known to help with stress. It’s organic, vegan, and gluten free.

Personal Experience

I take 1 Tbsp and mix it with about 4 oz of hot water. Then, I froth non-dairy milk with 1-2 teaspoons of honey and pour that into the OliveMush mixture, like a latte. You definitely need honey or some kind of sweetener; it doesn’t taste good without it but it tastes delicious with it! Just sweeten to taste; I don’t like overly sweet drinks so I add less honey than most people.

You can drink it hot or cold, but I prefer it hot. While I don’t drink this instead of my morning coffee (I’m not sure how I will ever give that up), I do like to drink this instead of my afternoon coffee or latte.

Who Should Use Oliveda Internals?

Oliveda internals are a great option for anyone, but especially those who are dealing with inflammation that may present as joint pain, skin issues and gut problems. 

If you get just one, get the I01 Orac & Camu Camu Olive Leaf Concentrate since it has 14x more hydroxytyrosol than any other Oliveda product and that’s the key ingredient that helps reduce inflammation. For a daily “beauty booster,” choose between the I70 and the I66 based on your needs—hyaluronic acid in I70 for hydration and collagen in I66 for elasticity. Be sure to store these supplements in the fridge once opened to maintain their potency.

Oliveda is having a huge wave of popularity, which has caused inventory to go out of stock pretty quickly. They restock products often, but even then, they go fast. If you want text updates about restocks, click this text sign-up link and then hit send when it populates the word “oliveda” in your text composer. If you have trouble, text OLIVEDA to 336-554-7262 (it’s me texting, not HQ, so you can reply to any of my texts).

You can also get my restock alerts on this Oliveda Restock IG Channel.

The post Oliveda Internals Review: What they are + which to buy appeared first on TeriLyn Adams.

I’m always on the hunt for high-performing products to add to my rotation (and I prefer brands that are clean and safe!). When it comes to foundation, I look for a formula that evens out my skin tone, has staying power, and doesn’t dry out my already dry, aging skin.

I’ve always had dry skin, and as I’ve gotten older, it’s continued to become more and more dry. As we age, it becomes increasingly important not to use products that are too drying because foundation can settle into fine lines, making signs of aging more pronounced. Additionally, a foundation that’s too drying for your skin type can create cakiness and look unnatural. The goal is to find that second-skin feel while providing the coverage you’re looking for. 

So today, I’m sharing my favorite lightweight foundations for mature skin. If you want to see how many of these look when they’re applied, you can see them in this YouTube video about my favorite foundations. It’s embedded below as well.

The Best Lightweight Foundations for Mature Skin

There are so many great options on the market that narrowing them down to one option can feel overwhelming..

I’ve broken it down a bit to help you find the best one for your personal makeup preferences and desired finish. 

Best Lightweight Foundations

• Best Oil Free: Chantecaille Future Skin Gel Foundation
• Best Dewy Finish: Tarte Maracuja Juicy Glow Tint
• Best Skin Care–Makeup Hybrid: ILIA Super Serum Skin Tint 
• Best Natural Finish: ILIA True Skin Serum Foundation
• Best Stick Foundation: ILIA Skin Rewind Complexion Stick
• My Top Picks: For a natural finish, The ILIA Skin Rewind Complexion stick is my favorite. For a glowy finish, I’d pick the Tarte Maracuja Juicy Glow.

1. Chantecaille Future Skin Gel Foundation

The Future Skin Gel Foundation may sound like it’s designed for oily skin since it’s oil-free, but it’s actually a great option for dry skin.It’s thicker than you might expect but it blends easily.This clean, vegan, cruelty-free, and oil-free formula is also incredibly hydrating, so it’s also a great option for winter months when skin is even dryer.  

It’s on the pricier side, but you don’t need much of this product, so it will last you a while. The one thing I don’t like is that it comes in a little tub so you have to stick your finger or a brush in there. I prefer a pump dispenser for sanitation’s sake. 

It’s made up of 60% water, giving it a super lightweight, gel-like consistency. It contains aloe vera, arnica, rosemary, and green tea for a soothing formula that’s full of antioxidants to protect the skin. It provides medium to full coverage, so if you’re looking for a heavier-duty look that still goes on lightweight, I’d recommend this. I love it for the winter months! I have a full Chantecaille makeup review if you’re interested in testing out any of their other products.

2. ILIA True Rewind Complexion Stick

The Skin Rewind Complexion Stick is ILIA’s newest foundation. I discovered it after I fell in love with Merit’s stick foundation and wanted to compare them. After trying both (see my comparison in this reel), I prefer ILIA to Merit. It blends a little easier than the Merit stick, and since the stick itself is bigger, it’s easier to apply. The coverage is buildable and natural. I wear the shade Willow and love it on my dry, mature skin. I do apply an oil underneath, though, so that it goes on very smoothly.

3. Tarte Maracuja Juicy Glow Tint

The Tarte Maracuja Juicy Glow Tint has been my go-to lately. I love that it has a very natural-looking finish with just a little bit of glow.  If you struggle with dull skin, you’ll love this. In fact, all of the products from the Tarte Maracuja line are super hydrating, so look for those products if you also have dry skin. It provides medium coverage and gives a glowy, fresh-faced look. This vegan foundation also has strong staying power, which I appreciate, especially during the hot summer months. 

It contains over 10 superfruits, maracuja oil, grapeseed oil, hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, and illuminating flower extract for added hydration, elasticity, smoothing, and protection from free radicals. It also reflects light to blur the appearance of pores and fine lines for a soft, glowy look. All Tarte products are cruelty-free and made without parabens, mineral oil, phthalates, triclosan, sodium lauryl sulfate, and gluten.

4. ILIA Super Serum Skin Tint SPF 40 

This is the lighest foundation in the bunch. I first tried the ILIA Super Serum Skin Tint in the fall of 2022 at a work conference, and it has become one of my favorites for sheer coverage. It gives a little more coverage than a tinted moisturizer, but it’s still very sheer! ILIA makeup is clean, cruelty-free, and doubles as skincare, which I love. 

I love this product when I’m looking for a no-makeup-glow. The only drawback, in my opinion, is the scent – it has a subtle smell that reminds me of dog food. Yuck. It fades after a couple of minutes, but I wanted to mention it as a heads-up. The product performance is so good that it’s still worth using. It’s hydrating, natural-looking, and stays all day long. You can read more about the coverage in my full review.

The vegan formula contains non-nano zinc oxide SPF 40 and shields against sun damage, pollution, and blue light. It uses hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and plant-based squalane to hydrate, improve skin texture, and minimize the look of pores. The active skincare ingredients make this one of the best lightweight foundations for aging skin. You can see more ILIA products I love in my review of ILIA Makeup.

5. ILIA True Skin Serum Foundation

After I got hooked on the ILIA Serum Skin Tint, I wanted to try their regular foundation and I really like this product. It provides medium coverage and blends very easily. It also has a wide range of shades to get a perfect match. One of my favorite things about this foundation is that it’s buildable, so you can choose your coverage depending on the day. It’s natural-looking, breathable, and extra hydrating for dry skin. I have a separate ILIA True Skin Serum Foundation review, if you’re looking for the full run-down of this product. 

It’s made with active skincare ingredients like niacinamide, allantoin, and aloe to soothe, nourish, and improve skin texture. It gives a lit-from-within look while still looking like you. I wear shade SF2.5 Molokai.

6. Armani Beauty Luminous Silk Oil-Free Foundation 

The Armani Beauty Luminous Silk Oil-Free Foundation is amazing if you’re looking for fuller coverage that still feels lightweight. It’s a cult classic in the makeup artist community and for good reason. It truly gives a “satin glow” effect. It helps improve dullness by illuminating the skin, improves skin texture, and creates a glowy filter to blur imperfections without any cakiness. 

Despite it being a medium-to-full coverage foundation, it still gives a natural and radiant finish that lasts all day. The only downside is this formula isn’t as clean as some of the others on this list. However, if you’re looking for an oil-free foundation that doesn’t feel heavy or dry but still provides full coverage, this is one of the best lightweight foundations for aging skin.

It uses Micro–fil & trade technology which is a patented process that allows the pigments to sit flat on the skin for blendable, natural-looking coverage.

7. Nars Light Reflecting Advanced Skincare Foundation

The Nars Light Reflecting foundation is a natural-finish foundation with buildable coverage. I like that it provides a little bit more coverage than some of the sheer options on this list, but it still feels and looks like your skin. 

It’s another one that multitasks as foundation and skincare. It’s made with biomimetic oat, Japanese lilyturf, cacao peptides, and milk thistle. Those ingredients help soothe skin, improve skin clarity, reduce redness, strengthen skin’s barrier, hydrate, and protect against blue light and other environmental stressors. 

It’s vegan, fragrance-free, and made without mineral oil, silicone, talc, alcohol, parabens, SLS, SLES, phthalates, PEG, or gluten. 

8. Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Tint

This lightweight liquid foundation is made specifically with dry skin in mind, so it’s a perfect hydrating option for aging skin. The water-gel formula is made with hyaluronic acid for a boost of moisture. It’s oil-free, so it’s great for acne-prone skin since it won’t clog your pores. It gives a natural-looking finish and provides subtle coverage to even out your complexion while still looking natural.

This formula is super long-lasting and doesn’t settle into fine lines. The only drawback is that it’s also not as clean as some of the other foundations on this list. Ingredient list aside, this is one of the best lightweight foundations for aging skin, especially if your skin type is on the drier side. I haven’t tried this one in a very long time to vouch for it, but it does have good reviews online.

9. Charlotte Tilbury Beautiful Skin Medium Coverage Foundation 

The Charlotte Tilbury Beautiful Skin Foundation is a great lightweight option if you’re looking for medium coverage. This foundation is long-lasting and holds up all day. The formula is made hydrating enough for normal-to-dry skin types but is also suitable for oily skin (but if you have really dry skin like me, I would go for a different product!). I love that it’s infused with skincare ingredients and doesn’t feel too heavy. It creates a solid base without completely hiding your skin, so you’ll still look natural and glowy. 

It’s made with hyaluronic acid, rose complex, and Bix-Activ to hydrate, brighten, and minimize shininess and the look of pores. It’s made without parabens, formaldehyde, formaldehyde-releasing agents, phthalates, mineral oil, retinyl palmitate, oxybenzone, coal tar, hydroquinone, sulfates SLS & SLES, triclocarban, or triclosan. Plus, it’s vegan and cruelty-free. 

10. IT Cosmetics CC+ Cream Full-Coverage Foundation

This IT Cosmetics CC+ cream has heavier coverage, but it’s buildable, so you can start with a lighter hand. Even though it’s full coverage, it smoothes the skin without looking or feeling too heavy. 

I love this option for aging skin because of the anti-aging serum and extra hydration that it provides. It also has SPF 50, which is a win. Although this product is cruelty-free, the ingredients aren’t as clean as other foundations on this list. If you’re on the hunt for a full-coverage option, this one still looks natural and has active ingredients that are beneficial for aging skin. 

It has hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and vitamin E to hydrate, reduce the look of fine lines and wrinkles, minimize discoloration, brighten, and soothe the skin. 

What are the benefits of a lightweight foundation?

Foundation doesn’t need to feel heavy on your skin. Even lightweight formulas can provide beautiful coverage by blurring imperfections like redness, discoloration, and minor blemishes without feeling heavy or sticky. A good lightweight foundation will give a subtle, healthy glow while still looking like your skin. 

Most lightweight foundations won’t hide blemishes completely like full-coverage foundations do but paired with a solid concealer (this is my favorite concealer), you can create a nice base for the rest of your makeup. Another benefit of a lightweight foundation is that the shades are relatively forgiving, making it easier to transition between seasons. Lightweight foundations are the perfect solution to even out your skin tone while still letting your natural features (like freckles!) shine through. 

Is it better to apply foundation with a brush or sponge?

Whether you use a brush or sponge to apply foundation, it really comes down to personal preference. Lately, I’ve been loving the Tarte Blur Brush. It makes the product so easy to blend right into my skin. I don’t put a ton of product on, and I focus on the center of my face since that’s typically where I need the most coverage. Then, I blend it outwards using circular motions. I find that this technique helps the foundation melt into my skin in a really seamless way, but sponges can also be effective when used correctly. In the past, I’ve used both a brush and a sponge. It just depends on which application technique you like!

Can you just use concealer instead of foundation?

Using foundation helps blend your whole look to create a more seamless finish. If you’re not into foundation, try the Supergoop! Glowscreen SFP 40. It provides barely-there coverage while still creating a nice base for your other products. I use it before applying foundation; it adds the perfect glowy touch without looking greasy. 

If you’re on the hunt for a good concealer, I’m a long-time lover of the Tarte Shape Tape concealers. Their new Shape Tape Radiant Medium Coverage Concealer has made it onto my list of all-time favorites. It’s brightening and concealing, so it’s great for the skin under your eyes or blemishes. I like to use it to conceal dark circles and then I take it up to the corners of my eyes to create a lifted effect. 

What foundation is best for a no-makeup look?

If you’re going for a true no-makeup makeup look, I would pick the Ilia Super Serum Skin Tint. It provides more coverage than tinted moisturizer but still looks like skin. It creates a gorgeous filter-like effect that melts into your face while enhancing your natural features. This is a go-to for me on days when I want to look fresh-faced, but natural. It’s a minimalistic base that adds the perfect healthy glow!

If you’re looking for more “no-makeup” makeup inspiration, check out my makeup routine. It’s a mix of my favorite natural-looking products and it takes less than 10 minutes!

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I’m a skincare junkie and am always on the hunt for the best skincare that’s also safe. While my skincare routine consists primarily of Oliveda right now, I have used Primally Pure products off and on for almost a decade and have tried almost every product they have.

So today, I’m sharing every product I’ve tried and my honest thoughts. Let’s go!

Primally Pure Review (what I love & what I don’t)

My top 3 products are the deodorant, body butter and baby balm so we’ll start with those.

Primally Pure Deodorant

I love Primally Pure’s deodorant (so much so that I have a separate review on it linked here). I’m a big proponent of safe deodorant i.e. no aluminum, clean ingredients, etc. Primally Pure’s Deo works and smells really good, which is saying something, since I hate anything scented. It’s not an anti-perspirant, so I do still sweat when I use this, but I don’t smell.

One note: many women have to switch natural deodorant brands every 9-12 months because our body chemistry changes, and some deo will stop working. I rotate among Primally Pure Deodorant, Agent Nateur Deodorant, and Necesairre Deodorant Gel.

Primally Pure Body Butter

I LOVE the Primally Pure Body Butter. In fact, it’s one of the only body butters I use when Thomas has really dry skin. It’s super thick and hydrating and it’s smooth to apply (which is nice compared to some grainier ones I’ve tried). The larger 4 oz size lasts a few months for me, and I use a quarter size amount every time. You can buy it in a set of three to try all the scents, which is what I recommend. They’re all amazing, but my favorites are the lavender and eucalyptus.

Read more about how to use body butter in this post.

Primally Pure Baby Balm

The Primally Pure Baby Balm is the ONLY thing that works on Thomas’ eczema-prone skin, and it’s gentle enough that I used it on Charles the day we brought him home. It’s also great to keep on hand for things like cracked nipples, stretch marks, etc. It’s made with lots of soothing herbs and healthy fats.

Primally Pure Plumping Mist

Next, the Primally Pure Plumping Mist. I have incredibly dry skin. And this mist is one of my favorite mid-day hacks for hydration (I also like the face mist from Dime Beauty)! I find that most of the face mists I’ve used make me feel dryer than before once the mist dries but not this one. My skin feels rehydrated immediately after I use this and for the rest of the day. The smell is amazing too. I keep this on my office desk for a mid-day spritz! It contains aloe vera, peppermint, glycerin, rose, and witch hazel.

You can use the Plumping Mist to set your makeup or after your cleansing step in your skincare routine, but I prefer it throughout the day since I already have a favorite toner for post-cleansing.

Primally Pure Fancy Face Serum

The Fancy Face Serum is a newer product from Primally Pure. It’s great for all skin types and SO effective at diminishing fine lines, scarring, age spots, discolorations and more. It comes in two versions; one is not made for pregnancy, but they have a specific version of this Fancy Face Serum that was specifically formulated for pregnancy and breast-feeding that is made without neem oil, thyme essential oil, cypress essential oil, and carrot seed essential oil.

Primally Pure Dry Shampoo

Primally Pure’s dry shampoo is SUPER popular for good reason. They have two versions: one for light locks and one for dark hair (I know brunette girls love to hear that!). This dry shampoo uses kaolin clay and organic arrowroot powder to absorb moisture while adding texture and volume, and it also contains organic essential oils of grapefruit (which has natural cleansing properties), lavender (soothes your scalp) and peppermint (stimulates hair growth).

Unlike most dry shampoos you’ve probably used, you do not spray this into your hair, but rather shake it into your scalp, sort of like baby powder. Use a few shakes on your roots, and then blend it in with your fingertips. If you use it before bedtime rather than right before you’re going out, you’ll have even better absorption. This product CAN make a little bit of a mess, so use it before you get dressed for the day!

Primally Pure Review – Body Oil

If you like a long bath or massage, you will LOVE the Primally Pure Body Oil. It makes a great gift because it’s so luxurious, smells amazing, and truly hydrates your skin. The body oil contains a blend of aromatic, nourishing and essentials oils, so your skin is super smooth and soft after using it. However, it’s pretty thick and a bit greasy so I prefer to use it at night rather than during the day, if I use it at all. I would say that this falls into the “just okay” category.

Like the body butter, the body oil also comes in a trio which allows you to try all three scents before committing to a full size. Paired with the body butter, your skin will be SO soft.

Primally Pure Clarifying Serum

This clarifying serum is my content manager’s favorite product from Primally Pure. She struggles with combination and breakout prone skin, and had never used a facial oil before this (the serum is in oil form). She was concerned about adding more oil to her already breakout prone skin (since we’re all taught oil = acne, which isn’t necessarily the truth), and once she tried it, she was shocked by how well her skin responded. I’ve learned over the years that the trick is usually getting your skin balanced to help prevent breakouts. If you dry your skin out too much with harsh ingredients, you may break out from that too!

The clarifying serum is made for acne-prone skin, so it’s a great option if you struggle with breakouts. The oil contains green tea with EGCG, marula oil and prickly pear seed oil are rich in vitamins C, E and K to treat active breakouts, acne scarring and sun damage. You don’t feel greasy after using it, but your skin does glow.

I’ve found that the best way to apply facial oil to my skin is to add it to my night cream and blend the two, or to apply a dropper of oil to the back of my hands and then use the back of my hands to apply the oil to my face. This helps prevent the oil from absorbing right into my palms, PLUS the back of your hands will appreciate the hydration.

Primally Pure Review – Lip Balm

I’m a big lip gloss/stick/balm girl, and the Primally Pure lip balm is on my list of favorites. They use ingredients like tallow from grass-fed cows, coconut oil and organic cocoa butter. This combination helps hydrate and heal chapped lips. Since each lip balm is only $4, I’d make sure to add something else to your order so that you don’t spend more money on shipping than the gloss actually costs. That, or buy the set and get all 5 scents!

Primally Pure Gua Sha

If you’ve never used a Gua Sha or facial jade roller, you are missing out. Gua Sha is an ancient healing technique from TCM (traditional Chinese medicine). Using the Gua Sha stone, you lightly pull and lift your skin in massage motions to help promote lymphatic drainage and relieve muscle tension. I wish I was better about using my Gua Sha, since I know it requires time and practice to really appreciate the results. Even with just one use, though, you’ll notice de-puffing and the softening of fine lines and wrinkles.

Read how to use a Gua Sha tool properly under the “How To Use” section here. The Primally Pure jade roller also helps depuff your skin, but it requires less technique. I keep mine in my car and roll it on my tired face on the way to pilates or early morning appointments! Either would make a great gift paired with one of their serums and a cozy robe. If you need a bathrobe recommendation, try the Cozy Robe from LAKE Pajamas.

Primally Pure Review – Dry Brush

I’m adding the Primally Pure Dry Brush to this list since it’s SUPER popular, but I have to admit that I’m not consistent about using mine!

To use the Body Dry Brush, you’ll want to start at your feet and brush upwards in short, gentle strokes. Brush counterclockwise over your belly to help improve digestion, and then brush from your hands to your heart. You’ll always brush towards your heart. To finish, you’ll brush DOWN towards your armpits to flush out the toxins and promote lymphatic drainage.

For the Facial Dry Brush, you’ll start at your neck, brushing in downward strokes to promote lymphatic drainage. Then, work all over your face, moving from the center of your face towards your hairline. The goal is NOT to scrub your skin, but get your blood and lymphatic fluid moving.

You can order the brushes in a set, and it would be a great gift for a beauty or wellness guru!

Who owns Primally Pure?

Primally Pure was founded by Bethany McDaniel, who grew up in a family who started a beyond organic livestock farm in Southern California called Primal Pastures. Through that family business, she learned how amazing eating real food was for her health, and that inspired her to look into starting a beauty and skincare brand that focused on the same thing: real, whole ingredients.

Their motto is “fewer is better”, meaning, the fewer ingredients in a product, the better it is. All of their products are made with real ingredients that come directly from nature. And the most impressive part is that the products deliver legit results. I also love that they source many of their ingredients from family-owned farms.

Primally Pure Customer Service

I love Primally Pure’s team. They’re friendly, prompt, and helpful. They do a great job of making their customers and audience feel like family, even though the company is growing. I’ve always had great experiences with their customer service.

Primally Pure Shipping

You can get free shipping on every Primally Pure order over $75, which is what I always do. I wait until I need to replace 2-3 products, and order them at once to get free shipping. Since Primally Pure products are not cheap, getting to $75 isn’t too difficult.

They have a great return policy too. They’ll process returns or exchanges within 60 days of your purchase for any reason, so you have plenty of time to try products out. If you have any issues, they’re happy to help make it right. Orders processed after 60 days, will be given store credit.

You can use this form for any returns or exchange requests.

Is Primally Pure Worth It?

100% yes. I LOVE my Primally Pure products. While they don’t deliver the same results as some other clean beauty products I use, they are some of the BEST products I’ve tried when my skin is super dry and irritated and nothing soothes it. They are also pregnancy and nursing safe so if that is a concern, this is a GREAT brand.

Primally Pure products are “cleaner” than Beautycounter and Oliveda, but I don’t feel like they are quite as effective as anti-aging. But if SUPER clean, natural products are the most important thing for you or you struggle to get dryness or oiliness under control, this brand is definitely worth trying.

Use promo code TERILYN10 to save 10% on your Primally Pure order!

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I heard about Dime Beauty for the first time on Instagram. Many of the influencers I’m friends with and follow were talking about it and said amazing things, especially the eyelash boost serum. And as a beauty and skincare junkie myself, I decided to give Dime products a try! One of the reasons I tried Dime was because it’s a clean skincare brand. I already use almost 100% clean beauty and skincare products (I’ve even started swapping out some of my clothes for cleaner brands), so this was a big reason I was excited to try Dime.

I was super impressed by a bunch of their products (and meh about others). You can read about my thoughts on each item I tried in this post. But one of the most impressive products I tried was the Hyaluronic Acid Serum. I was honestly SHOCKED by how much I liked this, considering I already had another hyaluronic acid serum I use and love. So in today’s post, I’m giving the Dime Beauty Hyaluronic Acid serum it’s own review.

Let’s jump in.

Dime Beauty Hyaluronic Acid Review

First let’s talk about the role of Hyaluronic Acid. It acts as a humectant, helping skin retain water and thereby plumping it. Hyaluronic Acid is also a hydrophilic humectant, which means it draws water from the air to helps replenish hydration over time too. The Dime hyaluronic acid serum contains only 4 ingredients, and all of them help promote hydration. We all have HA in our skin, but as we age, that decreases over time, so that’s where a serum can come in.

I have very dry, aging skin skin and I use some pretty expensive serums, peels, moisturizers and night creams. I was skeptical of the Dime Beauty’s Hyaluronic Acid Serum given its affordable price tag. For just $30, I thought there was no way this stuff was actually good. I was wrong!

Ingredients

I really love how Dime Beauty explains their ingredient lists. You can click on each ingredient and learn more about the amount they use, why it’s used, and if there is any controversy on the ingredient, that’s usually explained too. They show the EWG rating for each ingredients as well. (You can read more about the safety concerns in beauty products in this post.)

Water

The number one ingredient in the Hyaluronic Acid serum is water. This is purified and filtered to be as clean as possible. Water is the base for this serum and helps provides hydration, in conjunction with the other ingredients that actually help the skin retain that water.

Sodium Hyaluronate

This is a substance that is actually already present in the human body. Most of the time you find this in your eye ducts and joints. The sodium hyaluronate used in the serum is created in a laboratory and is also known as hyaluronic acid.

Phenoxyethanol

Phenoxyethanol is a preservative, and Dime Beauty has been working on stability test to make sure that this ingredient is as safe as possible. While there is a little bit of controversy regarding this ingredient, it’s a preservative that is necessary for killing and preventing microbes since this serum contains water. I feel fine about using this!

Ethylhexylglycerin

This is also a preservative, but it’s somewhat new to the market and super gentle and safe.

Texture

The texture of the Dime Beauty Hyaluronic Acid Serum is super smooth, and almost jelly like.

Drying Time

The serum dries extremely quickly. I apply it when my skin is still damp from my essence to help draw in the moisture from that and lock it in. After I spread it evenly on my skin, I let it dry before applying moisturizer on top. It dries very quickly, in about 15 seconds.

Scent

This serum has no noticeable scent. I’m super sensitive to most smells (although I actually LOVE Dime’s perfume), but this has no scent at all.

Results

My skin feels distinctly more hydrated when I use it and my smile lines are less noticeable and my makeup applies more evenly. I always apply a moisturizer on top to seal in the hydration of the serum. For even better results, you can use this serum in the morning, and then use the Dime Beauty Super Firm Serum at night. The Super Firm serum is great anti-aging product for fine lines, and brightening your complexion. They’re a great duo when used together since one helps with cell turnover and one hydrates.

Price

The Dime Beauty Hyaluronic Acid Serum is $30 and the Oliveda Hyaluronic Serum is almost $95 so Dime is significantly more affordable.

If I had to pick between the Dime Beauty HA serum and the Oliveda Hyaluronic Serum, I would probably go for the Oliveda one, but the Dime Beauty one works really well and is cheaper.

Overall Review Of The Dime Beauty Hyaluronic Acid

Like I mentioned above, I’ve had and used Beautycounter’s Hyaluronic Acid serum for years, so I was interested to see if the Dime Beauty HA serum stood a chance. For the $30 price tag, I’m shocked. It truly works just as well. My skin is significantly more hydrated immediately after using this, and I notice that my skin looks more alive and awake throughout the entire day. I use this serum in the morning or night time when I’m feeling extra dry.

Since I have a pretty extensive skincare routine already in place, I use this serum as needed in place of the serum I would usually use. I will note, the only downside to this product is that the bottle is very small for daily use. I went through it quickly, and I was not using it twice a day daily. Thankfully, the price is low enough to repurchase as needed.

A few other Dime beauty products to note are the Blue Facial Oil which is anti-inflammatory (perfect after a day in the sun), Super Firm Serum (like botox in a bottle, great for firming your skin), the Thirsty Face Mist (great for sensitive skin and the only face mist I actually like!), the Gentle Jelly cleanser which has raving reviews —and the Luminosity Eye Serum, which is truly amazing. Read more of my Dime Beauty reviews for skin care in this post.

Use code TeriLyn20 for 20% off your purchase!

The post Dime Beauty Hyaluronic Acid Review appeared first on TeriLyn Adams.

My honest review of Oliveda skincare and how it compares to the other clean skincare brands I’ve used. All $50+ Oliveda orders ship free! Get a FREE product when you take this skincare quiz and order +2 of the recommendations.

I love skincare. And one of the newest brands on my radar is Oliveda. I discovered Oliveda after Beautycounter shut down unexpectedly in May of 2024. And while Oliveda is new to me, it’s not new to the beauty industry at all — it’s been in posh spas in Europe for 20+ years. However, it’s only been in the US for about a year.

My love of skincare started with my personal journey dealing with horrific breakouts and learning that quality skincare matters. When I stopped using drugstore brands and invested in products with quality and safer ingredients, my breakouts cleared up. That was over a decade ago (and my skin looks better at 39 than it did at 25!). Ever since, I’ve been obsessed with trying different brands and different kinds of skincare, always looking for the most effective products for myself and what to recommend to others. (This post outlines my skincare routine.)

As a huge fan of safe and clean beauty and skincare, I was excited to try Oliveda after hearing a handful of raving reviews from friends. I’ve been BLOWN away, to say the least. Honestly, I’m really shocked. I try new skincare products almost daily, and it’s very rare that I feel as passionate about a product or brand as quickly as I did after trying Oliveda.

In this blog post, I’ll share the brand’s background, what makes its products unique, which ones I’ve tried, and my honest review.

Oliveda Skincare Review: My Experience as a Skincare Junkie

What is Oliveda Skincare?

Oliveda is a German-based clean skincare brand that formulates products with olive tree extracts. It is known for its waterless skincare philosophy, which means its products are concentrated with active ingredients, avoiding the need for water and preservatives that can dilute potency and potentially irritate the skin (I’ll explain this in detail below). Oliveda’s formulations are also designed to be highly effective, free from harmful additives, and sustainable.

The brand was founded by Thomas Lommel after his own experience with the effects of using olive-based products internally. His first product was the I01 Elixir (a drinkable supplement), which spurred him to create skincare products because he was convinced that what was best for the inside must also be best for the outside (our skin).

What does Oliveda mean?

The name Oliveda comes from the Latin word for olive, olivae. Every Oliveda product is made with olive leaf extract (which is why they call their skincare waterless. More on this below).

Oliveda Key Ingredients

The main ingredient in their skincare products is part of what makes Oliveda unique: hydroxytyrosol. And what they don’t add is also what makes it unique: water.

Hydroxytyrosol (Olive Leaf Extract) is the main ingredient in all Oliveda products. It’s super high in antioxidants, which protects the skin from damaging environmental stressors (which improves the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles). It also helps reduce the appearance of dark spots and boosts radiance. The other main benefit of hydroxytyrosal is that it’s anti-inflammatory. It’s actually been shown to reduce the risk of coronary heart disease and atherosclerosis (source)

Using hydroxytyrosol as the main base of their products means that every single ingredient is active. When people talk about the glow they see in their skin after using Oliveda, it’s largely due to the hydroxytyrosol.

They have other products that also use Olive Oil (like the Oliveda internals) and Mediterranean herbs (like the Olivemush, a coffee substitute), but their skincare is what keeps going viral.

What is waterless skincare?

While water isn’t bad (at all), it does require preservatives and emulsifiers to stabilize the rest of the formula. When water is removed as the main base of the product, the active ingredients aren’t diluted. You can read more about Oliveda’s waterless formulations here.

Instead of using water as a filler, Oliveda uses 100% organic olive leaf extract called hydroxytyrosol (explained above).

Is Oliveda really waterless?

While Oliveda is known for waterless skincare, you WILL see water on their ingredient list. This is because water is a byproduct of extracting ingredients from the olive leaf. However, Oliveda never adds water to its products. And you won’t ever see water as the #1 ingredient on the list, as is often the case with other brands (including ones I use and love).

To be clear, there’s no downside to including water in skincare products. However, Oliveda’s use of olive leaf cell extract is an alternative that makes the rest of the active ingredients in their products even more potent and effective. 95% of Oliveda’s products are bioactive because the extract used as the base is also active. Given that, you only need a very small amount of product when applying Oliveda products. It has been a bit of an adjustment not to use as much product as I was using with other brands (and it’s not like I used a ton prior).

Is Oliveda a clean beauty brand?

Yes. Since Oliveda is a German-based company, it must follow all EU beauty safety standards. The EU bans over 1700 ingredients while the US bans 11, so Oliveda is much cleaner than most US beauty brands. And considering I’m breastfeeding, safety is essential for me right now.

One thing to note: As you read through Oliveda’s ingredients, it can be a little confusing for a US consumer because things are labeled differently in Europe than in the US. Since Oliveda is an international brand, we just have to look at things with a different lens. I’ll break down some of the key things to know below.

Fragrance

In the US, the term “fragrance” is a loophole that brands can use to include anything they want, including harmful endocrine disruptors and allergens. In the EU, every ingredient in a skincare product has to be tested for safety, but once it’s approved to be used as a fragrance, it doesn’t have to be disclosed. Oliveda uses the term fragrance on the back of its products, but everything it uses has to be tested by the EU first, so it’s not a loophole to be wary of like it is in the US.

Retinol

In the US, we’re instructed not to use retinol while we are pregnant or breastfeeding, so we don’t usually consider it “safe”, so when you see the term retinol on Oliveda products, it’s a bit jarring. However, similar to fragrance, in the EU, safe alternatives to retinol (i.e. bakuchiol) are screened, deemed safe, and then labeled retinol. For context, bakuchiol was used in Beautycounter’s Countertime line (more details here). The Oliveda product called “Green Retinol” has bakuchiol on the ingredient list, not a derivative of Vitamin A.

Oliveda carries four products labeled with the term retinol:

• F65 Corrective Midnight Elixir: Fish-derived retinol
• F82 Green Retinol Face Elixir: Bakuchiol
• F87 Corrective Kahai Elixir: Nut-derived Kahai oil retinol from the Cacay tree
• 004 LA DOPE Your Wrinkles Face Oil Serum: This contains hemp, which is excellent for sensitive skin because it’s anti-inflammatory and calming. Its strength is somewhere between the Kahai and Midnight.

While three of these products do contain vitamin A, they are natural forms of Vitamin A. Of course, this is up to personal preference, and you may still decide to stay away from natural forms of retinol. Beautycounter included Bakuchiol in their products (and Beautycounter had more stringent standards than the EU), so I feel fine about using the F82 Green Retinol Face Elixir especially.

What are Oliveda Internals?

While this post is dedicated to my review of Oliveda’s skincare products, Oliveda also has really popular supplements called Internals. These are made with the same base as the skincare products: hydroxytyrosol. These not only help with skin issues and anti-aging but also help with inflammation and joint pain. Unlike the skincare products I’m discussing in this post, the Internals are meant to be injected, targeting the root causes of skin issues. I have a full review of Oliveda Internals linked here.

The Best Oliveda Products

Oliveda has almost 90 products in its lineup, so deciding what to get can be overwhelming. And since the company is based in Europe, the names of its products are also a bit confusing. Their anti-aging line is called “corrective,” for example. When I first heard it, I thought the corrective line was for oily or breakout-prone skin. Like I said, it takes some getting used to. If you’re looking specifically for supplements or what Oliveda calls their Internals, you’ll want to read this Oliveda Internals breakdown post.

To simplify things, I’m breaking down the best products in each category: cleansers, serums, moisturizers, etc. I’ve also outlined which products work best for each skin type. I’m not a dermatologist, so keep that in mind. I do have a lot of experience in the skincare world, so my recommendations come from that! The great thing about Oliveda is that nothing is truly exclusive to one skin type — think of it as “good, better, best” regarding your goals. The most basic cleanser will still work for you if you have dry, mature skin, but you’ll benefit more greatly from the cleanser made for anti-aging if that makes sense.

Okay, let’s break it down by product type so you can decide what to buy:

1. Choose a Cleanser
2. Choose a Toner
3. Choose a Serum
4. Choose an Elixir
5. Choose a Moisturizer
6. Choose an Eye Cream
7. Incorporate “Add-On” products

Oliveda Cleansers

Oliveda really encourages double-cleansing, which means washing your face with an oil to remove makeup and then following with a foaming cleanser. If you only get one, get a gel cleanser.

Corrective Cleansing Oil (F72) – Dry, aging skin

An oil-based cleanser for dry, aging skin. It’s made with olive fruit oil and lavender oil, which nourish and sooth/calm the skin.

Arbequina Cleansing Oil (F78) – Normal or combination Skin

An oil-based cleanser for normal or combination skin. Nourishes and hydrates while removing impurities. Start with this, and follow with the gel cleanser.

Corrective Cleansing Gel (F71) – Dry, aging skin

Great for mature, aging skin. This is super gentle and very hydrating. It smells amazing, but the smell is very natural and not super strong (I’m sensitive to scents and love this). I use this as my morning cleanser and my skin feels clean and hydrated.

Purifying Cleansing Gel (F38) – Normal or combination skin

The perfect foaming cleanser for normal or combination skin. This gives you a super deep cleanse while also supplying your skin with highly concentrated antioxidants that help prevent signs of aging.

Oliveda Toners

Corrective Facial Tonic (F67) – Dry, aging skin

This tonic should be used as a toner right after cleansing. This preps your skin for the serum and elixir you’ll use next. This is what I use daily. My skin feels like it’s maintaining moisture all day now that I’m using this.

Activating Facial Toner (F11) – Normal, combination skin

This is non-drying and does not strip your skin, but instead helps restore your skin’s natural balance.

Oliveda Serums

Corrective Serum Face (F59) – Dry, aging skin

Oliveda F59 is what people call “botox in a bottle”, and it’s my favorite Oliveda product so far. It’s made with concentrated hydroxytyrosol (the super powerful antioxidant we discussed above) combined with para cress extract, an ingredient that lifts and smooths your skin. It also builds collagen.

I’ve had botox in the past (the last time was in early 2023), and I wouldn’t go as far as to say Oliveda’s Botox in a bottle is just like it. HOWEVER, I do think it’s wildly effective for fine lines. The fine lines around my smile and on my forehead have definitely lessened since I started using it. It sells out super quickly each time it comes back in stock, so I always post in my Oliveda Instagram Channel when it comes back.

You can read more about this viral product in my Botox in a Bottle blog post.

Cell Active Serum (F06) – Normal, combination skin

This serum helps smooth your skin and reduce pore size, but it mainly reduces dark spots and smoothes wrinkles. What I love most about this is that it has a skin-tightening effect. It’s an all around great serum for all skin types. While anyone can use the Corrective Face Serum (aka Botox in a Bottle), you may not really need the anti-aging benefits yet, so this would be a great option. It’s similar but not as concentrated as the Botox in a Bottle.

Oliveda Elixirs

Oliveda calls its retinol products Elixirs. They are similar to serums in terms of benefits, but they’re made to be mixed with serums. When used together, you will get better results than applying just one or the other or when layering them vs. mixing.

For mature or aging skin, these are your best options:

Corrective Midnight Elixir (F65) – Fish derived retinol

If you’ve already used retinol in the past and love the effects, then you will love this. It’s a natural form of retinol that’s derived from fish. Since it is an animal-based form of vitamin A, it is metabolized into retinol. Some may also choose not to use this product during pregnancy. Excess Vitamin A consumption is a concern, but from my understanding, this wouldn’t be of concern. Gig Hadid used It all through her pregnancy – but go with your gut.

It can only be used at night, and it’s Oliveda’s strongest retinol option.

Corrective Kahai Elixir (F78) – Nut derived retinol

This is a natural form of retinol that’s derived kahai oil retinol from the cacay tree. If you typically react to bakuchiol (some do), then try this. If you need a retinol alternative, get the Green Retinol Face Elixir (F82) (details below).

Green Retinol Face Elixir (F82) – Bakuchiol, a retinol alternative

This is Oliveda’s most gentle retinol option, and I think of it as more of a retinol alternative. It’s a blend of bakuchiol (an alternative to retinol) and kahai oil (a natural retinol). Technically, yes, there is vitamin A in this from a very low concentration of kahai oil, but because of how low the concentration is (and the fact that the Vitamin A in it is natural versus synthetic), I feel fine about using this while breastfeeding.

This reduces fine lines and pore size, improves complexion, contracts pigmentation, AND protects against free radicals. This can be used morning and night. This one does have a unique smell. It doesn’t smell good, but it doesn’t smell bad; it’s just unique (almost like olive oil, which makes sense).

If you know you react to bakuchiol (some people do), your skin will likely respond better to the Corrective Kahai Elixir (F78).

Oliveda Moisturizers

Corrective Face Cream (F42) – AM for mature, aging skin

This day cream is ideal for dry/aging skin because it has extra hydroxytyrosol in it (a super powerful antioxidant). It’s soothing, super hydrating, improves elasticity, and reduces fine lines. It contains a sun protection factor! Apply this like any moisturizer, but know a little goes a long way.

Anti Oxidant Face Cream (F05) – AM for normal or combination skin

This is a great moisturizer for younger or normal skin.

Regeneration Intense Face Cream (F74) – Night cream for all skin types

This is more hydrating than the Beautycounter Supreme Cream that I used for years, which is shocking. The texture is weird and it takes some getting used to how it’s applied and massaged in, but now I love it. This is one of the more hydrating moisturizers from Oliveda. It reduces redness and helps balance the skin. Just use a very small amount of this – a little goes a long way.

Oliveda Eye Cream

I recommend choosing one of the top two eye creams and the elixir since they can be used together.

Oliveda F60 Corrective Eye Cream – Mature, aging skin

This eye cream has a ton of anti-aging ingredients in it that will help boost your collagen and give you a smoothing effect around your eyes. It also helps under-eye shadows and discolorations. Apply a tiny bit around your eye, but avoid the upper lid. 

Anti Wrinkle Eye Cream (F09) – Normal or combination skin

This is a great basic eye cream. I love the texture and it’s completely non-irritating. It tightens and reduces fine lines around your eye area.

Oliveda F64 Corrective Eye Elixir – All skin types

This is in Botox in a Bottle for your eyes. It has a triple hyaluronic acid structure and a ton of antioxidants, so it hydrates and plumps while also giving your eyes a more lifted, radiant look. You can apply this underneath your eye cream or use it alone. (I prefer to layer an eye cream on top for a little extra moisture.)

Add-on products for all skin types

Corrective Vegan Hyaluronic Acid Serum (F86)

Hyaluronic serums are great for dry and aging skin because they deeply moisturize and hydrate. This serum also repairs oxidative damage and makes your skin look and feel more elastic/tight. You can layer this on top of your serum for extra hydration.

Acne SOS Face Drops (F85)

These drops unclog pores, balance sebum production, and reduce acne-causing bacteria. They contain salicylic acid, which is ideal for fighting and preventing acne.

HT + Vitamin C Serum (F83)

This is Oliveda’s Vitamin C serum. It’s made with hydroxytyrosol, a superpowerful antioxidant, and it also contains camu camu. Because of the hydroxytyrosol, this has 1300% more power than vitamin C alone. It improves fine lines and wrinkles, neutralizes free radicals, and gives you a super radiant complexion. It also has carrot extract in it, which makes it red, which is fun.

AHA + HT Serum Face (F81)

Use chemical exfoliator 1-2 times per week at night. It’s a true hero product. It reduces scarring, improves elasticity, reduces and fights hyperpigmentation, and boosts collagen. It’s great for breakout-prone skin because it gently exfoliates and sloughs off dead skin, which can cause build-up and breakouts. If you used Beautycounter, this is very similar to the Overnight Resurfacing Peel.

Honey Enzyme Face Mask (F76)

This face mask removes dead skin cells so that the rest of your skincare products can absorb better. This is especially beneficial for dry and/or aging skin since you’re paying more for those types of products and you want to get the most out of them. (The women who give me my facials have been telling me for years that I need to use an enzyme mask regularly to see improvements in my fine lines and deeper wrinkles).

I also love that it has a warming sensation. I usually hate applying masks because they take a long time and are messy, but I actually look forward to using them since I enjoy the sensory experience. And the green color is fun!

Olive Core Face Peeling (F10) – MAYBE SKIP THIS!

This is a physical face exfoliator. It’s a superfine facial scrub that helps remove dead skin cells and gives you a fresh, glowy complexion. It’s fine and definitely does the job, but I still prefer the Dual Enzyme Polish from Colleen Rothschild. However, Olive Core does use cleaner ingredients, so if that’s your top priority, know that this does work well. (I shared more about Colleen Rothschild products in this post.)

Olive Tree Therapy Lip Balm (F75)

This is the best lip balm I’ve ever used. It’s super hydrating like any lip balm should be, but it also makes my lips look full––almost like I’ve had lip filler (I’ve never had any filler). I’ve also noticed that the redness around the outside of my lips lessens when I apply this. I typically put a little bit of foundation around my mouth to reduce redness around my mouth, and I don’t have to do that when I wear this Oliveda lip balm.

Oliveda Skin Quiz

If you’re unsure what to buy or want even more personalized recommendations, the Oliveda Skincare Quiz called OliveBrain might help. It uses AI technology to determine a custom regimen for products that will work for your skin. Another cool thing about Oliveda is that when you take the Oliveda Quiz and buy two of the recommended products, you get a free full-size product as a gift.

However, the Oliveda quiz results can be confusing (some of my friends have run into this problem), so if you fill out my Skincare Survey, I will send you my recommendations and thoughts for your exact skin type.

My Oliveda Skincare review

Now that we’ve gone down the Oliveda brand background rabbit hole, let’s get to the good part: my honest review. As I alluded to in the intro of this post, I’ve been shocked by the results I’ve seen from using Oliveda products for almost a month. I think it has a lot to do with the potency of the formulations (remember, no water added = no dilution of active ingredients). If you read any other Oliveda skincare reviews, they’ll likely echo this. The products are SO GOOD.

I’m not the only one who thinks that, either. The before-and-afters Oliveda collected are mind-blowing (especially the Oliveda F59 reviews). The results speak for themselves, and I could see tangible differences after 3 uses versus about 2 to 3 weeks to notice changes from other brands. Specifically, my skin has looked brighter and plumper, and my fine lines and wrinkles (particularly my smile lines and lines around my eyes) have improved.

My Oliveda Before and Afters

When I first shared these photos, I was accused of lying. Someone claimed I had edited and filtered the photos to make the “after” shots look more impressive. But no, I did not. And yes, the results are seriously that good. (On a separate note, lying about results would be bad for my business since it’s all based on you trusting my recommendations. It wouldn’t get me far.)

I honestly can’t believe how good my skin looks since I started using it – like I had Botox that looks more natural. (This pic is from 1.5 months after switching to Oliveda.)

Oliveda FAQs

Is Oliveda Pregnancy Safe? Is it Breastfeeding Safe?

Yes, ALL of the Oliveda products are pregnancy-safe, but it’s fair to be extra cautious and avoid retinol – even natural retinol – when pregnant.

The midnight elixir may be one to avoid, but that’s a personal choice, and they don’t advise stopping anything. It uses a natural form of retinol that’s derived from fish, and since it is an animal-based form of vitamin A, it does metabolize into a form of retinol. The other retinols are plant-based and do not metabolize into the type of retinol that is a concern.

Another note: the AHA + HT Serum contains salicylic acid, so you may want to avoid it or consult your doctor before using it.

As always, consult your doctor and go with your gut. As an aside, Gigi Hadid switched to Oliveda while pregnant because she was looking for clean skincare.

Does Oliveda have free shipping?

Oliveda has free shipping on all orders $50+. I especially appreciate this since a lot of things are out of stock lately (many products have gone viral and lots of Beautycounter consultants and clients are now using this brand), so when something comes back, I can buy it immediately without having to pay shipping, even if I just ordered two days ago (that’s exactly what happened this week; I ordered the F86 Corrective Vegan Hyaluronic Serum Face, and B15 Anti Aging Body Cream and then the F83 HT + Vitamin C Serum Face Serum was restocked an hour later so I just placed two orders back to back).

Does Oliveda have free returns?

While you can return an Oliveda product for any reason within 365 days, you do have to pay for return shipping. Read more about their return policy here.

Does Oliveda sell makeup?

Not yet. Oliveda is set to launch their makeup line in the fall of 2024!

However, Oliveda does have products besides skincare, including body and hair care and internals (i.e. anti-aging products you drink, like collagen). You can read all about Oliveda Internals in this review. If you’re looking for clean makeup in the meantime, you’ll like ILIA Beauty. I have a full review on ILIA Beauty linked here.

Is Oliveda an MLM?

Oliveda does have a direct sales business model here in the US, which is similar to an MLM but different because this one can be sold at retail locations. You can join Oliveda as a consultant and receive a commission from any sales you generate, similar to an affiliate. If you’re interested in learning more about the business side, you can read more here.

Or drop your email in this consultant-interest form, and I’ll follow up with you. 

Is Oliveda a scam?

Nope! Since Oliveda is new to the United States, you may ask yourself, “Is Oliveda legit?” I hope this review has helped clear up any confusion. Oliveda is totally legit, and everyone I know who has ordered it has loved the results.

Who owns Oliveda skincare?

The Oliveda founder, Thomas Lommel.

Is Oliveda all-natural?

Oliveda uses raw materials from its own organic olive trees, and its products are all bioactive (bioactive ingredients are nutrient-dense, and our body recognizes them, so our body knows how to break them down) and organic. However, it does use some synthetic ingredients in its products, so I won’t say it is 100% natural, although it does lean that way.

But keep in mind that natural doesn’t always mean safe. Lead is natural, but that doesn’t mean it’s safe. What’s important is the testing of ingredients, specifically for safety, and Oliveda (and the EU) has done that.

The Bottom line:

I absolutely love these products. I love the smell and feel of these and their efficacy. I also appreciate the small packaging (much easier to store), the price point, and free shipping with $50+ orders.

If you have questions, let me know! You can also join my Beauty Broadcast to get more information about how to care for your skin and hear what beauty products I’m trying and loving (or what I think is overrated).

The post Oliveda Skincare Review: My Experience as a Skincare Junkie appeared first on TeriLyn Adams.