Skincare with a message – Keys Soulcare by alicia keys

Keys Soulcare, Alicia Keys’ beauty line, landed in our lives at the perfect moment. Created by the musician as skincare with self-care at its core, Keys Soulcare launched in 2020 (a year when we needed an awful lot of self-care) and started with a range of 10 facial and lifestyle products, from moisturizers to a scented candle. Now, Keys is adding body care to the mix: a hand and body wash, body cream, and body oil, all bearing that same philosophy of taking time for yourself.

“While working closely with Alicia on the facial skincare, we wanted to also infuse many of the ancient and nourishing ingredients into our body offerings,” says board-certified dermatologist Renee Snyder, who co-created Keys Soulcare along with Keys. “It is so important to take care of ourselves, and the body is another moment where we can focus on self-care.” To add to the ritual of it all, the products also come with a corresponding affirmation meant to be spoken with each use. “Alicia and the team develop each affirmation based on the action and feeling you will experience with the offering,” explains Snyder. 

Because Keys is known for her radiance—in addition, of course, to her legendary voice—I was intrigued to try her latest products to see if I could capture a bit of her glow. Keep reading for a full breakdown on the new products courtesy of Snyder, and for my honest reviews to find out if I’m fallin’ for them (sorry, couldn’t help myself).

Courtesy of Keys Soulcare

All About Keys Soulcare, According to the Derm Who Co-Created It

The benefit of being developed by a dermatologist? Each ingredient has a purpose. The formulations are also cruelty-free and made without things like parabens or sulfates. What you’ll find instead? Loads of moisturizers, all of which are intended to strengthen the skin barrier. “The skin performs many important functions for us; from helping us eliminate toxins to temperature regulation, but most importantly it acts as a protective barrier,” explains Snyder. “When your skin is hydrated, it is resilient and plump.”

So while the Renewing Body and Hand Wash may be a cleanser, it still puts nourishment first. Think skin-loving Manuka honey, shea butter, and cocoa butter. Meanwhile, the sage and oat milk scent (Alicia’s fave!) helps promote “comfort, clarity, and balance,” according to the derm.

The body cream, as you’d expect, is also chock full of hydrating ingredients. “Sunflower seed oil is extremely high in vitamin E, an antioxidant that helps protect the skin from harmful UV rays and other environmental stressors,” explains Snyder. But that’s not all: “Ceramides, along with shea and cocoa butter, promote the infusion of hydration into the skin.” Topping it off is the rose of Jericho, which “can spring back to life at the first drop of water, imparting one’s skin with the feeling of a renewed vitality,” according to Snyder.

Keeping with the theme of protecting the skin, one of the key ingredients in the Sacred Body Oil is baobab oil, which “is known for its regenerative abilities,” according to Snyder. “It is excellent for softening the skin and aids in healing due to the levels of vitamins A, B, and C, along with omega 3, 6, and 9 fatty acids,” she explains. The formula also contains marula oil, “which is purported to contain 60% more antioxidants than most other oils, packing a powerful punch to the skin,” adds Snyder.

Renewing Body and Hand Wash Review

Keys Soulcare Renewing Body and Hand Wash

Keys Soulcare Renewing Body and Hand Wash ($24)

I’m not particularly picky when it comes to soap and body wash, but I’m a sucker for a good scent. My skin can also get dry, so I was excited to see if this formula is as hydrating as it claims. Right off the bat, I loved the fragrance—it reminded me of expensive perfume, without being overwhelming. The texture of the body wash is gel-like, and it lathers up fairly well (especially considering it’s sulfate-free). As I used it, I remembered about the affirmation part of the deal, luckily, they’re printed right on the packaging. For the body wash, the affirmation is “I love myself as I am.” I repeated it a few times until I admittedly felt a little silly. But I tried!  

Immediately after toweling off, I could tell my skin felt softer and more hydrated than with my usual body wash, but the true test, in my opinion, would be how it held up post-shower. The next day, I’m pleased to report, my skin was just as soft. I also smelled amazing (if I do say so myself). The product has been a mainstay in my shower since the first use so I haven’t been using it as a hand soap, but the pretty bottle would look great on the sink, too. 

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Rich Nourishing Body Cream Review

Keys Soulcare Rich Nourishing Body Cream

Keys Soulcare Rich Nourishing Body Cream ($36)

I love a good body cream, so this was probably the product I was most excited to try. I would say it’s almost like body butter, both in texture and color (picture Kiehl’s Creme de Corps). Let’s just say she’s thick. A little goes a long way, which is something I learned after I overdid it on leg number one. It’s not scented, which I appreciated, especially because I was still in the throes of the body wash. It didn’t feel greasy after applying, but I let it sink in for a few minutes for good measure. All in all, it’s a solid, super-moisturizing formula, but if you’re looking for something lightweight, you may want a more traditional lotion

Sacred Body Oil Review

Keys Soulcare Sacred Body Oil

Keys Soulcare Sacred Body Oil ($25)

While I love a good body cream, I don’t often use body oils, but I was there for the full Keys experience. First off, I was a fan of the dropper bottle, which is super convenient to use. It also has the same fragrance as the body wash, but again, isn’t overpowering. As instructed, I warmed the pale golden oil between my hands first, and it applied like a dream—not greasy at all, and just enough slip. It’s recommended to use this right after showering, but I found myself reaching for the bottle to moisturize my elbows and cuticles, all times of the day. Consider me a body oil convert!

More Keys Soulcare Products to Shop

Keys Soulcare Golden Cleanser

Keys Soulcare Golden Cleanser ($20)

This calming facial cleanser is also made with Manuka honey, as well as chamomile and turmeric.

Keys Soulcare Be Luminous Exfloliator

Keys Soulcare Be Luminous Exfloliator ($22)

Containing both physical (Hojicha powder, oats, and mung beans) and chemical (lactic acid) exfoliants, this gentle scrub can be used once or twice a week.

Keys Soulcare Harmony Mask

Keys Soulcare Harmony Mask ($28)

With both activated charcoal and Manuka honey, this clay-like mask clears skin without drying it out.

Keys Soulcare Skin Transformation Cream

Keys Soulcare Skin Transformation Cream ($30)

Rich and hydrating, this moisturizer contains hyaluronic acid and ceramides to moisturize, and bakuchiol to reduce the appearance of fine lines. Bonus: It also comes in a fragrance-free version.

Keys Soulcare Comforting Balm

Keys Soulcare Comforting Balm ($12)

Use this balm on lips, cheeks, elbows, or any spot that needs a little extra TLC.

Keys Soulcare Reviving Aura Mist

Keys Soulcare Reviving Aura Mist ($22)

Spiked with witch hazel and scented with rose, this face mist can be used as a toner and anytime skin needs a refresh.

Keys Soulcare Obsidian Facial Roller

Keys Soulcare Obsidian Facial Roller ($25)

The Keys Soulcare face roller is made with obsidian, a naturally occurring volcanic rock said to protect against negativity.

Keys Soulcare Sage + Oat Milk Candle

Keys Soulcare Sage + Oat Milk Candle ($38)

Keys and Snyder smartly packaged the line’s signature scent in candle form for maximum relaxation vibes.

Have you tried Keys Soulcare products yet? If so, which is your favorite? Let me know down in the comments what you think about the products mentioned above. xo

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Yoga skin: new glowing makeup trend everyone is crazy about

We all know true beauty comes from within, but when we want to enhance it from outside there is no better way than with beautiful healthy skin. As a matter of fact, a good (and consistent!skincare routine is a key for radiant and youthful looking skin, not only to boost your confidence but to keep you healthy too. After all, skin is the human body’s largest organ.

I’ve heard people sing the praises of mixing face oil with their foundation for the ultimate dewy, radiant complexion, over and over again. Thankfully, the power of makeup is so strong and amazing, even when our skin isn’t, so you can get this instant glow right away. How? Keep reading, you will love this one.

WHAT IS YOGA SKIN?

Women across social media have been spotted wearing beautiful natural looks enhanced by a very cool highlighting technique. It’s all about luminous and youthful radiance that looks natural, flawless and healthy. Basically, your “no makeup look” with an extra glow.

When skin is at its healthiest, it has a sort of glow that radiates through a room. However, it’s not always realistic to have perfectly healthy skin all the time—between work, travel, and having a social life, sometimes our skin just doesn’t glow from the inside out as much as we’d like it to. Whenever this happens, there’s always makeup to save the day! And that’s exactly why yoga skin has taken off as a trend. All about getting a glowing, dewy complexion with makeup, yoga skin is reminiscent of the recent glass skin trend. The main difference being, yoga skin focuses on achieving a more natural look. Whereas the goal of glass skin is to get a picture-perfect, flawless-looking complexion, yoga skin is inspired by the pretty flush and glisten skin has after a particularly good yoga class.

So what is yoga skin? The glowing makeup trend started with Sara Hill, UK makeup artist who created Instagram hashtag #yogaskin as it reminded her of a fresh and gorgeous radiant skin women have when stepping out of the yoga studio; juicy, dewy and super-hydrated. It’s not about hiding imperfections but creating a hyper-real version of your natural skin, pinchable and just irresistible!”

How to get yoga skin

Don’t worry you don’t actually have to do yoga (unless you want to).

To get the look, start by applying your regular skincare as normal, and leave it for at least five minutes to settle into your skin.

Apply a layer of primer, and then it’s time to get to mixing! Number one rule: hydration. Hydrated skin is what essentially makes glowing makeup trend so, well, glowing. What I love about this look is that it’s completely customizable to your needs, preferences and skin type.

The Best Way to Mix Your Foundation With Face Oil

There are two ways to go about mixing your foundation and facial oil. You can either add a couple of drops into your foundation, or you can apply the oil directly onto your skin as a foundation primer

For the latter method, you may not want to cover your entire face with oil before foundation application. “If I’m applying directly onto the skin as a primer, I stick to the high points of the face like on the tops of the cheeks, not on the areas of the face that produce oil on their own, like in the T-zone.” This will keep the makeup looking more lit-from-within and less greasy. 

Even those with oily skin shouldn’t be discouraged from giving this makeup hack a try. If you are prone to oiliness and shine, you can use a small amount of powder to set your foundation in place. I like to apply powder very sparingly with a damp sponge instead of a brush because powder can build up very quickly on top of oil and end up looking cakey.” The damp sponge helps keep the powder looking smooth and gives your complexion an overall more hydrated appearance.

Sara Hills Primp Tip: mix liquid foundations with a drop of facial oil and few drops of liquid highlighter. You can also add glow drops. Finally, massage into the skin. Optional, if needed, add a small amount of concealer to cover up any spots or puffiness under the eyes. Use an alcohol-free setting spray to add extra hydration.

Choose Your Tool to Apply Your Face Oil and Foundation Combination

It’s all about personal preference when it comes to your application tool for face oil and foundation. I prefer a combination of a brush and a makeup sponge to get the job done. “Because oil thins out your foundation, I prefer to apply first with fingers or a brush and then use a damp sponge to tap it into place and soften any streaks.”

Why Mix Face Oil With Your Foundation?

Aside from helping you achieve a dewy-looking complexion (and who doesn’t want that?!), blending together a face oil and foundation can help you customize your coverage. “Mixing oil into your foundation can thin out full coverage, make a matte foundation look a little more luminous and can make your application glide and buff more easily. Plus it can add needed hydration to skin that’s dry. 

Foundation Recommendations:  

Lancôme Teint Idole Ultra 24H Long Wear FoundationUrban Decay Stay Naked Weightless Foundation and YSL Beauty All Hours Longwear Natural Matte Foundation

Face Oil Recommendations:

Lancôme Bienfait Multi-Vital Daily Replenishing OilYouth to the People Superberry Hydrate + Glow Oil and Kiehl’s Daily Reviving Face Oil

DIY SUNDAY: The Best DIY Face Oil For Dry Skin

Face oils are one of the most effective ways to hydrate and nourish your skin. The right blend can pump your skin with skin-enhancing vitamins and protective antioxidants and give deep hydration while smoothing fine lines. But face oils can be expensive, which is why I’ve become absolute pros at making my own blend of face oils to target different skin types.

Face oils are especially great for dry skin as they’re lipophilic, which means they have a smaller molecular structure that can penetrate further into your skin, allowing your skin to retain hydration at a deeper level. Plus, oils are one of the richest formulas, so unlike other skincare products, like moisturizers, they’re pure goodness from nature.

Understanding Dry Skin

Dry skin is often dull, especially around the eyes, accentuating fine lines and wrinkles. If your skin is dry, your pores will most likely be small and barely visible (yay for you!). Your skin might feel tight and rough; it may even chap. Although, if your skin is extremely flakey, your skin may be prone to skin conditions like eczema or dermatitis.

DIY Face Oil Rules

Face oils are made of two different types of oil: a carrier oil and an essential oil. A carrier oil will act as the base, while the essential oil is much more potent and will have more healing and nourishing power.

Best carrier oils for dry skin: Avocado oil, Sweet Almond oil, Apricot oil, Camellia Oil.
Best essential oils for dry skin: Lavender oil, Geranium oil, Jasmine oil, Rosehip oil, Cedarwood Seed Oil.

Depending on what oils you have or can find, you can mix up your own. The general rule is for every 30ml of a carrier oil, you can use 1-2 drops of essential oil. You can also mix different carrier oils as long as you keep the carrier oil to essential oil ratio the same. Try to get cold-pressed, organic oils, as these will be the purest and most potent.

DIY Face Oil for Dry Skin

60 ml of Camellia seed oi
2 drops of Sea Buckthorn Berry oil
2 drops of Rose oil

Directions: Add all ingredients into a glass bottle and roll between the palms of your hands to combine.

The benefits: This oil is super nourishing, making it the ultimate cure for dry or sensitive skin. A Japanese favorite, Camellia Seed oil is crazy hydrating because its molecular weight is almost identical to our skin, allowing it to be absorbed quickly. It’s also full of skin-boosting omegas, just like Sea Buckthorn Berry oil, which is a rich source of omega 7, a rare fatty acid that’ll nourish, heal, reduce scarring, and strengthen the skin. Finally, the Rose oil will not only instantly brighten, but also contains a powerful antiseptic that can help calm breakouts.

Have you guys tried making your own DIY face oil before? Let me know if you’re going to try this in the comments below.

WHAT DO YOU GUYS THINK?