How Working From Home Affected Our Relationship With Beauty

Since the spring of 2020, the BeautyLeeBar.com editors have been primarily working from home. It may not surprise you to learn that, before making these workweek changes, we all had pretty lengthyΒ beauty regimensΒ and loved experimenting with new products and looks on a daily. But as you can imagine,Β spending the majority of our workdays indoorsΒ and away from a traditional office building has inspired some changes, both in routine and mindset. Read on for theΒ beauty lessons we learned during the pandemic.Β 

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Sara, Content Director

One of the biggest beauty lessons that I’ve learned during the pandemic (and there have been many!) is to fully lean into makeup that helps me feel most like myself β€” and whatever that may be is allowed to change day by day, week by week. In other words, I listen to how I’m feeling before I do my makeup every day, which is given me the freedom to have more fun with my look. Recently, I’ve been embracing nail art, bright nail polish shades, and press-on nails. I’ve got my eyes on Essie Risk Takers Only, a bright orange, for my next mani. On the skincare front, I have even more appreciation for my dermatologist’s recommendations. Since following my derm’s suggested routine, my skin has only gotten clearer, smoother, and healthier. 

Chyanne, Editor

The biggest beauty lesson I’ve learned throughout the pandemic is to not be afraid to wear lipstick β€” mask and all. I’ve gotten a thorough idea of what the ultimate lipstick is for me to get me through long days on Zoom calls or errands with a face mask. The recipe is matte, long-lasting, and transfer-proof. My go-to has been theΒ NYX Professional Makeup XXL Lip Lingerie Matte Liquid Lipstick. This little tube has gotten me through it all over the past few years, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.

Ariel, Editor

One thing the pandemic taught me was how to master the five-minute face. Pre-pandemic, I used to wake up at least two hours early to apply a full face of makeup, pick out an outfit, and account for my commuting time. During the pandemic, those habits shifted drastically. Anyone who works from home has likely had a morning (or maybe quite a few mornings) when they woke up minutes before a Zoom meeting and had to rush to look polished before logging on. In my case, I usually swipe on mascara (Β LancΓ΄me Monsieur Big Volumizing MascaraΒ has been my go-to for years) and a bright lip gloss, like theΒ Benefit Cosmetics Liquid Lip Blush & Cheek Tint. Together, these makeup products pair up to make me look freshly caffeinated and awake in minutes.Β 

Katharina, Social Media Editor

Being at home through the pandemic has taught me two important lessons when it comes to my beauty routine. First, being utterly bare faced is completely fine. Second, when I do choose to wear makeup, there’s nothing wrong with getting a little bit bold and experimental with it. I probably wouldn’t have shown up to work without an ounce of makeup on before the pandemic but being virtual has shifted my mindset to a point where I can be fully confident in a meeting with nothing on my face but some light, natural mascara (I swear by theΒ Maybelline Green Edition Mega MousseΒ for a no-makeup makeup look). I also have the freedom to play with my makeup a little bit more; if I want a bold lip in the morning and a subtle gloss in the afternoon, I have my entire makeup kit at my fingertips and can play around with my look.

Crystal Lee, Founder

Pre-pandemic, you could find me wearing only full-coverage foundations and concealers to hide any skin imperfection. You would never catch me with a bare face, especially if I was walking into the office or going out to eat with friends. After countless social distancing parameters and countless Zoom meetings, I’ve found myself becoming more comfortable with embracing my skin’s natural texture and opting for products that have a β€œyour skin but better” feel. I’ve started leaning on buildable, lightweight foundations like theΒ Valentino Beauty Very Valentino 24-Hour Wear Liquid FoundationΒ on the days I decide to wear makeup. It leaves my skin with a natural look without the heavy feel of foundation.

Dewy Setting Sprays That Will Make Skin Glow All Over

HighlighterΒ isn’t the only makeup product you can use to achieve an ethereal glow. You can furtherΒ enhance radiance and counteract dull skinΒ by finishing your look with the rightΒ setting spray. Dewy setting sprays can do a lot for your skin β€” like boost luminosity, extend the wear of your makeup andΒ keep skin free of shine. To help you make yourΒ glass skinΒ dreams come true, we rounded up nine of our favorite dewy setting sprays, below.

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NYX Professional Makeup Plump Finish Setting Spray

  • Keep your makeup fresh and your skin looking plump with this supercharged dewy setting spray. The unique formula contains five electrolytes and vitamins β€” including aloe, magnesium, zinc, citric acid, and biotin β€” to plump and hydrate skin so you look moisturized, not oily.

Dermablend Lock and Last Setting Spray

  • Lock your makeup in place for up to 24 hours with this long-wearing dewy mist. One spritz makes makeup smudge-, transfer- and water-resistant; plus, it works to hydrate and soothe your skin, so your makeup feels comfortable even through the longest days.

Urban Decay All Nighter Ultra Glow Setting Spray

  • The iconic OG All-Nighter Setting Spray gets an update with an infusion of hyaluronic acid and agave to give you a dewy, fresh-faced finish that lasts from morning to night.

IT Cosmetics Your Skin But Better Setting Spray

  • Infused with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, coconut water, and aloe vera extract, this dewy setting spray provides a naturally glowing finish. It also curbs excess shine and oil β€” and touts a yummy coconut scent.

Milk Makeup Hydro Grip Set + Refresh Spray

  • Quench your skin’s thirst with this refreshing spray packed with blue agave extract and hemp-derived ingredients. It’s also infused with vitamin B3 to help nourish the skin and provide a glassy, hydrating finish.

Β Milani Make It Dewy Setting Spray: Hydrate+Illuminate+Set

  • Set your skin on the path to glowing central with Milani’s versatile dewy finish setting spray that also doubles as a primer. Don’t you just hate it when you get both your eyeliner wings just right and when your foundation looks almost airbrushed but melts away through the day? The Make It Dewy Setting Spray ensures your statement stays put with a brightening boost. This is a good dewy setting spray that cloaks your skin in hydration and shines for up to 16 hours with no fading, creasing or smudging! And with its refreshing feeling, you can very well use it in crazy hot weather too. You can also wear this hydrating setting spray without any makeup for a natural-looking glow that is bound to steal hearts wherever you go.

Β TATCHA Luminous Dewy Skin Mist

  • It’s well-known that TATCHA delivers some of the most eye-catching packaging, but their formulas deliver too. The Luminous Dewy Skin Mist is the best face-setting spray that gives off a soft shimmer under or over your makeup. It contains a blend of Okinawa red algae for the ultimate moisturizing benefits, camellia oil for optimum nourishment, and hyaluronic acid to quench parched skin. TATCHA’s dewy setting spray for dry skin is also infused with Hadasei, a 3-ingredient anti-aging complex. With the power of Japanese superfoods like green tea, rice, and algae, your skin will look and feel super youthful. Carry thisΒ long-lasting dewy setting spray around in your purse for an instant dose of freshness.

ORPHEUS RESSURECTION Bio-Luminous Dewy Essence

  • ORPHEUS’ award-winning moisturizing setting spray comes in a silky essence consistency that feeds irritated skin with nutrients and a luminous finish. The Orpheus Flower Cell Peptide Complex contains potent peptides, stem cells, and antioxidants that work to safeguard your skin from pollution. With the dualΒ hyaluronic acid, the active serum deeply penetrates the skin for long-lasting hydration resulting in plump and younger-looking skin. A blend of the vitamins C, B3, B5, and E refines your pores and evens out skin tone, while a bio-luminescent flower extract imparts a shine that could put lights to shame. One spritz of this dewy finish makeup setting spray transforms your skin from within for the ultimate jaw-dropping glow.

Β l.f Dewy Setting Mist

  • If you’ve been looking for a cheap dewy setting spray, your search can end at elf’s Dewy Setting Mist! Apart from keeping your makeup intact for a long time, this drugstore dewy setting spray feeds your skin with nourishing ingredients that contribute to a healthy radiance. Infused with coconut, this lightweight formula hydrates, and conditions your skin intensely so that it glows like never before. Green tea and cucumber moisturize skin and fight premature signs of aging for an ever-youthful look. Trust us, and you’re not going to regret adding elf’s dewy face mist to your vanity.
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Now that we’ve gone over the best dewy setting sprays on the market, let’s look at how you can bag the right one for you!

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How To Choose The Right Dewy Setting Spray

  • Skin type

Dewy setting sprays are ideal for dry and dull skin as they come packed with moisture or water-based formula. This helps give a soft glow to dry skin while also providing hydration benefits. Combination and oily skin types may find that dewy setting sprays make their skin even greasier, but if they don’t have excess oil, a lightweight setting spray which is also non-comedogenic may work. But dewy sprays suit dry and normal skin types better. Even mature skin will benefit from a dewy finish as the formula won’t cake up or settle into fine lines and wrinkles.

  • Formula

Ensure that the formula is lightweight and has a non-sticky and non-greasy consistency. Dewy setting sprays that are quick-drying help immensely for on-the-go touch-ups. Some sprays may have fragrance and if you’re sensitive to it, ensure to read the label to avoid it. A few setting sprays can have strong scents which may cause a reaction as they are directly sprayed on the face. You can patch test setting sprays as with every other beauty product or read some reviews online.

  • Ingredients

It is essential to invest in formulas with high-quality ingredients devoid of harmful additives. To prevent flare-ups, opt for formulas that don’t contain alcohol, fragrance, parabens, sulfates, and other harsh chemicals.

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After you’ve purchased a dewy setting spray you like, it’s time to learn how to use it for the ultimate glow!

How To Use Dewy Setting Spray

  • Step 1:Β Ensure that all your makeup is done, and you’re satisfied with how it looks.
  • Step 2: Shake the contents of the dewy setting spray bottle for an even mixing.
  • Step 3: Hold your dewy setting spray bottle about 8-10 inches away from your face and lightly spritz on the right side of the face.
  • Step 4: From the same distance, spray the mist on the left side of your face.
  • Step 5: Spritz once in the center of your face with your eyes closed.
  • Step 6: Wait for the setting spray to dry.
  • Step 7: Repeat if you feel the need for a brighter glow.
  • Step 8: Reapply throughout the day as and when needed to give your skin a boost of freshness.

Note:Β You can also apply dewy setting sprays on bare skin without any makeup for a natural glow to keep your skin looking and feeling fresh.

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Our facial skin is always exposed to dirt, pollution, and harmful sun rays. They damage the skin and strip away its natural glow. But worry not, because the best dewy setting sprays can give you a stunning glow to ensure a natural-looking makeup finish. They seal your makeup and make it last longer than usual. The products mentioned in our list have lightweight formulas that are non-greasy and keep the skin hydrated and primed. They dry within seconds of application and leave your skin with a silky texture. If you prefer vegan and cruelty-free makeup, you will find them on our list too. Most of these formulas are chemical-free and last for hours. Some of them offer anti-aging benefits and add brightness to dull and dry skin. Consider factors like skin type, product formula, and ingredients before investing in a spray. You should also avoid sprays that have sticky consistency or an overwhelming fragrance.

Comment Below Your Favorite Dewy Setting Spray!

Lori Harvey Sparks Controversy with her Latest Beauty Secret Reveal.

TikTok loves a skincare hack, but apparently, Lori Harvey’s yogurt face mask took things too far. The model and entrepreneur took to the platform to share her tried-and-true tip, which involves smearing her face with Greek yogurt to quickly diminish the appearance of dark marks, only to be met with a slew of opinionated comments.

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β€œI’m about to put you guys on game,” she says in the clip, which shows Harvey standing in her bathroom with the yogurt applied to her face. β€œSo, I got a facial the other day and she did extractions, and it left a couple of dark marks, and that’s a no-no. So, what I like to do when I want to get rid of them quickly…” β€” she then holds up a container of Fage Total 0% Greek Yogurt β€” β€œ…game changer. Put this on after you wash your face, let it dry, and wash it off with cold water. It’s like magic erase marker.”

LORI HARVEY’S YOGURT FACIAL, EXPLAINED

While Harvey swears by this edible hack, TikTok users weren’t quite sure what to think. Some were downright skeptical (comments like β€œI’m not trying more DIYs man” and β€œfood is to eat, skin care is for skin care” are aplenty) while others claim they, too, have seen the benefits of yogurt for their skin (β€œMy favorite as well! The girls that get it, get it,” one commenter wrote), with many pointing out that it’s a common practice inΒ Middle Eastern cultures.Β 

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There are also a few people calling out the fact thatΒ lactic acidΒ (found in yogurt) products β€” of which there are many on the market β€” essentially have the same brightening effect.

Needless to say, the people had *thoughts*, prompting Harvey to return to TikTok a couple of days later with none other than celebrity estheticianΒ Joanna Vargas, who promptly backed up the star’s yogurt hack. β€œFirst of all, in other countries, using yogurt as a way of dis-inflaming the skin, hydrating the skin, exfoliating the skin β€” it’s a real thing, guys,” Vargas said. She also added that when she was in esthetician school β€œway back in the day”, students learned the yogurt hack as a way to calm down the skin when nothing else is working.Β 

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WHAT WE SAY

To set the record straight, BeautyLeeBar spoke with board-certified dermatologist Dr. Hadley King who explains that Topical yogurt contains lactic acid, an alpha hydroxy acid, that provides gentle exfoliation by dissolving dead skin cells. β€œThis helps to create a healthy glow and prevent acne, and also diminish fine lines and decrease discolorations,” King explains. β€œThe probiotics in yogurt may help to bolster the microbiome of the skin, which we are learning plays a role in acne, rosacea, eczema, and other skin conditions, and the fat in full-fat yogurt has moisturizing properties. If you are going to try topical yogurt, I’d recommend full fat, plain, unflavored, and unsweetened. And yes, lots of similar benefits from moisturizers that contain alpha hydroxy acids and probiotics.”

@loriharvey

I just got here y’all not about to bully me off TikTok 🀣 relaxxx skincare experts. Obviously I could’ve showed y’all a lactic acid serum or promoted my Vitamin C Serum BUT I was trying to show you guys an easy and cheap DIY mask that has similar benefits πŸ˜‰ #skincare

♬ original sound – Wsg!

Of course, it might not work for every skin type. However, it’s worth a try if you’re looking for a natural and inexpensive way to treat your skin concerns.

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PRIMP TIP

Use this mask for 15-30 minutes and apply a generous amount if you do decide to give this DIY a chance.

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PRIMP TIP

But it is typically best for those with acne-prone skin to avoid dairy in their diet and routine. So, what is the safest option for tackling dark marks and discoloration? It all comes back to having a solid skincare routine in place. Dark spots and discoloration are best treated with a balanced skincare routine of hydration, chemical exfoliation, and sun protection. Focusing on products that contain antioxidants and peptides is ideal.

In other words, trying out the yogurt skincare hack comes at your own risk. Play it safe and consult with your esthetician or dermatologist for a customized skincare routine.

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@callhersin

#duet with @loriharvey #yogurtfacemask #facial #skincare #loriharvey I honestly feel like if your consistent with it you’ll see results πŸ«±πŸ½β€πŸ«²πŸΌmake sure you wash your face FIRST ‼️‼️

♬ original sound – loriharvey

SKINCARE BENEFITS OF YOGURT

Want to learn more about the benefits of yogurt for the skin? Read on as we explain more about this beauty hack, and how it can help your skin.

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It Hydrates Skin

Yogurt is a rich source of fats and protein, which works excellently as a natural moisturizer. According to a 2011 study, yogurt may reduce water loss from the skin and seal in moisture.

It Brightens Skin

Did you know yogurt also boasts natural brightening effects? According to dermatologists, yogurt contains lactic acid, an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that provides gentle exfoliation to the skin, buffing away dead skin cells to reveal fresh, glowing skin.

It Treats Discoloration

Lori Harvey wasn’t wrong when she said yogurt cleared up her dark marks. Thanks to its exfoliating benefits, topical yogurt can treat dark spots and hyperpigmentation. It can also fade post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation left over by pimples.

It Reduces Signs of Aging

Research shows that yogurt supports natural collagen and improves skin elasticity, helping to increase skin firmness while fading fine lines and wrinkles. It’s worth including in your daily skincare routine if you’re looking for a natural anti-aging formula that can be found in your fridge.

It Alleviates Acne and Other Skin Conditions

β€œThe probiotics in yogurt may help to bolster the microbiome of the skin, which we are learning plays a role in acne, rosacea, eczema, and other skin conditions, and the fat in full-fat yogurt has moisturizing properties,” explains New York-based board-certified dermatologist Dr. Hadley King.

If you’re seeking clear skin, turn to yogurt for its acne-fighting effects. Thanks to its helpful bacteria, yogurt can combat Propionibacterium acnes, the bacteria responsible for those painful red breakouts.

It Provides UV Protection

Research from 2015 suggests that the probiotics in yogurt may be able to reduce the damaging effects of the sun’s UV rays. These probiotics act as antioxidants, neutralizing the harmful effects of free radicals. This can also reduce sun-related skin issues like fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots.

Of course, you’ll still need to wear sunscreen daily to get full protection. But yogurt can help keep skin healthy, youthful, and glowing.

ALTERNATIVE FACE MASKS

Prefer to pick up face masks that are already ready to use instead of DIY-ing them? You’ll find probiotics like those found in yogurt in cleansers, lotions, and creams. Looking for something different? Try one of these top face masks.

Korres Greek Yoghurt Probiotic Superdose Face Mask

Formulated with prebiotic- and probiotic-rich Greek yogurt, this quick-acting face mask helps to soothe and reset skin in just 10 minutes.

Orgaid Greek Yogurt & Nourishing Organic Sheet Mask

Along with vitamin B5 and allantoin, this Greek yogurt face mask nourishes and hydrates while making skin appear plumper.

Γ‰minence Clear Skin Probiotic MoisturizerΒ 

This clarifying facial moisturizer is best for those with acne-prone skin. The inclusion of cucumber juice, willow bark extract, and of course yogurt, calms the skin while extracting impurities that cause blemishes.Β 

Shani Darden Skin CareΒ Lactic Acid Exfoliating Serum

This potent serum harnesses the power of lactic acid to gently exfoliate and address skin concerns like large pores, acne, and dark spots.Β 

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What are your thoughts on Lori Harvey’s yogurt face mask hack? We’d love to hear from you!

7 Illuminating Moisturizers That Will Make Your Skin Glow

We stan a glowy complexion and are firm believers that you can never have enoughΒ highlighter. Seriously, whether it’s aΒ liquid formulaΒ or aΒ powder illuminator, we can’t get enough. But if you appreciateΒ the dewy makeup lookΒ and stay up to date on the latestΒ makeup tips and trends, you also know that you can also achieve it with the rightΒ skincare routine.Β 

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One must-have for skin radiance? Illuminating moisturizer. Using one of these moisturizers gives you a lit-from-within,Β glowing lookΒ and aΒ natural dewinessΒ β€” you might not even need to use a highlighter. Keep reading to discover seven of our favorite moisturizers for creating a luminous finish.

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IT Cosmetics Confidence in a Cream Rosy Tone Moisturizer

The rosy tone of this moisturizer isn’t just pretty to look at β€” the pigments give skin a revitalized, youthful appearance. The formula also gently exfoliates and intensely hydrates to reveal a more vibrant complexion.

LancΓ΄me HydraZen Glow Liquid Moisturizer

This refreshing, lightweight formula provides 24-hour hydration and visibly reduces signs of stress, like dullness. The best part? Your skin will look more radiant and glowy almost immediately after application.

YSL Beauty NU Glow in Balm

Want to exude radiance without clogging your pores? This moisturizing primer’s non-comedogenic formula is infused with shea butter and glycerin to hydrate and illuminate the skin. You can mix this into your foundation or apply it under nation for a radiant finish.

Garnier Pinea-C Brightening Serum Cream Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 30

This three-in-one product acts as a serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen. It’s infused with pineapple and vitamin C to target dullness and even out your skin tone, while SPF 30 protects your skin from UV rays.

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Glow Recipe Plum Plump Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizer

Hydrate, plump, and prime your skin for makeup with this super silky moisturizer. A blend of hyaluronic acid and polyglutamic acid, it exfoliates and moisturizes for a glowing finish.

L’OrΓ©al True Match Lumi Glotion Natural Glow Enhancer

This multi-purpose product can be used as a primer, highlighter, and full body luminizer. Flecked with a touch of shimmer, the lotion creates a seemingly lit-from-within glow no matter how you use it.

Summer Fridays Cloud Dew Gel Cream

If you’re looking to create a smooth, even base before makeup, this ultra-lightweight moisturizer is a must-try. Hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and amino acids help promote even tone, texture, and skin resilience.