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,Β Keys Soulcare launched in 2020Β (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.

β€œWhile 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. β€œIt 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. β€œAlicia 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 radianceβ€”in addition, of course, to her legendary voiceβ€”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’mΒ 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. β€œThe 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. β€œWhen 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 β€œcomfort, clarity, and balance,” according to the derm.

The body cream, as you’d expect, is also chock full of hydrating ingredients. β€œSunflower 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: β€œCeramides, along with shea and cocoa butter, promote the infusion of hydration into the skin.” Topping it off is the rose of Jericho, which β€œcan 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 β€œis known for its regenerative abilities,” according to Snyder. β€œIt 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, β€œwhich 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 SoulcareΒ Renewing Body and Hand WashΒ ($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 fragranceβ€”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 β€œI 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.Β 

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Rich Nourishing Body Cream Review

Keys Soulcare Rich Nourishing Body Cream

Keys SoulcareΒ Rich Nourishing Body CreamΒ ($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’sΒ 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 SoulcareΒ Sacred Body OilΒ ($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 dreamβ€”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 SoulcareΒ Golden CleanserΒ ($20)

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

Keys Soulcare Be Luminous Exfloliator

Keys SoulcareΒ Be Luminous ExfloliatorΒ ($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 SoulcareΒ Harmony MaskΒ ($28)

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

Keys Soulcare Skin Transformation Cream

Keys SoulcareΒ Skin Transformation CreamΒ ($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 aΒ fragrance-freeΒ version.

Keys Soulcare Comforting Balm

Keys SoulcareΒ Comforting BalmΒ ($12)

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

Keys Soulcare Reviving Aura Mist

Keys SoulcareΒ Reviving Aura MistΒ ($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 SoulcareΒ Obsidian Facial RollerΒ ($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 SoulcareΒ Sage + Oat Milk CandleΒ ($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

Up next, be the first to know our weekly content and sign up for ourΒ BeautyLeeBarΒ newsletter.

Upgrade Your Selfie Game With These Editor-Approved Ring Lights

Whether you’re trying to upgrade your selfie quality or want the best light possible for filming makeup tutorials, ring lights should be on your radar. The perfect addition to every vanity, ring lights cast an even light onto your face, reduce shadows, illuminate your eyes and even minimize the look of blemishes. There are plenty of ring lights out thereβ€” each with different functions and lighting options β€” making it tricky to figure out which one is best for you. To make it easier, we’ve narrowed down our favorite ring lights on Amazon, ahead. 

ring-lights

UBeeSize 12’’ Ring Light with Tripod

Never worry about bad lighting again. With this ring light, you can choose between five color temperatures and 10 brightness levels to find the best possible lighting for video calls, interviews, vlogs and makeup tutorials. 

ring-lights

Riki Skinny Light Vanity Makeup Mirror

Although it’s on the pricier side, this mirror has received the praises of celebs, makeup artists and beauty gurus for a reason: it’s magnifying mirror ensures flawless makeup application every single time. Plus, the lighting can’t be beat.

ring-lights

Neweer Selfie Ring Light 

Filming how-to videos and TikToks has never been so easy. This portable ring light provides top-notch lighting wherever you go and even has a clamp to hold your phone for hands-free recording. 

ring-lights

AIXPI LED Ring Light

With its own height-adjusting tripod that rotates 360 degrees, this ring light offers optimal lighting at every angle.

ring-lights

Yarrashop Ring Light Stand and Phone Holder

Don’t let poor lighting wash out your complexion on screen. Shop this desktop ring light complete with adjustable brightness levels and lighting will never be an issue again.

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How to Find the Right Face Mask for YOUR SKIN

It’s easy to think that all face masks are good for us. They’re a treatment, right? How can special treatment be bad? But depending on the weather, or our skin type, or even just our skin’s current #mood, the wrong mask could do us dirty.

If we have super dry skin, steer clear of harsh pulling clays or even exfoliating acids, which can be hard because we want to dissolve those dead skin flakes. However, we need to nurture our skin barrier and be kind and cognizant of our skin’s current condition before slapping on a face mask and considering it a favor.

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On the other hand, if we have oily skin, we don’t want to get eight hours of REM under an emollient sleeping mask or overdo it with hydrating facials. It’s all about balance and assessing what our skin’s needs are.

Ahead we’re sharing our favorite powder face masks to add to your skincare routine.

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Tools

 

Ritual Set, $15

For easy application, use this bowl and brush set to blend the formula and water. Lee also likes to add a drop of this honey mask and a few shakes of this rosemary reset powder to her mixture.

For Dry Skin

Forma Rosea, $45

If you’re feeling itchy, flaky, sallow, or dull, you’ll want to go straight for a hydrating mask and skip the harsh stuff. Colloidal oat kernel, chamomile flowers, carrot seed oil, coconut milk, jojoba, rose, and a few other key players nourish deeply while providing moisture. It’s the ultimate pink drink for our skin.

For Blemish-Prone Skin

Forma Viridi, $45

When we are stressed, PMSing, or maybe letting our diets get a little out of hand (hello holidays), we need to balance and clarify. This is when we should be reaching for a clay mask, and this one with mineral-rich French green clay does the trick without over-drying. Neem, lavender, and spirulina are anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, and mineralizing for a soothing plan of attack for current and brewing breakouts.

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For Irritated Skin

Forma Floris, $45

Sometimes our skin is not quite dry, not quite oily, but it’s clearly upset. This can happen in harsh climates, or when we’ve overdone it with skincare (over-exfoliation … please don’t, but OK, it happens). Soothe and calm freaked-out skin with hibiscus, marshmallow root, aloe, calendula, and chamomile to reduce redness, irritation, and inflammation. 

For Dull Skin

Reborn Mask, $60

Rhassoul, rosehip, turmeric, gotu kola, sea buckthorn, and a few other superstars will restore a glow and some color to your cheeks while gently pulling out impurities. These ingredients soothe while fighting future breakouts and inflammation, and at the same time boost circulation for rapid healing and instant radiance.

Papaya Bright Superfood Face Mask, $34

This brightening mask is made with 100% pure, edible superfoods. Plus, it’s highly recommended by our BeautyLeeBar Community. β€œIt’s a powder formulated with clean, good-for-you ingredients; add a few drops of water and it turns into a gel-like paste. I use this bowl and brush to applyβ€”self-care at its finest. Leave on for 10-15 minutes and rinse off to reveal healthy, glowing skin. Like using the Paris filter but IRL!”

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For All Skin

Clean Greens, $34

When you’re not quite suffering active breakouts, but feel bogged down by blackheads and an overall lack of luster, time to give your skin the ultimate smoothie. Chlorella, spirulina, and mango juice help to nourish the skin and dissolve impurities. This mask is so nutrient-dense and yet so gentle, that we go back on our word with this one exception. Use this baby any time for a healthy glow.

CATEGORY IS FACE. Comment below where you from and the skincare product that has been saving thy face!

5 Ways to Use MICELLAR WATER on the Daily

French women swear by micellar water, and they’ve got the complexions to prove it. Micellar water was formulated with the notion that tap water is too harsh for the face, stripping it of natural and necessary oils which, in turn, can speed up the aging process. But micellar cleansing water can clean the face without actual water; in other words, no rinsing required, therefore aiding in keeping that complexion fresh and youthful. The formulas are so gentle and effective, they’re safe for all skin types, even sensitive and acne-prone. And, like all staple, must-have beauty products worth their price, this item is a true multitasker and time-saver. 

Due to micellar water’s popularity, there are countless options on the market, which makes it hard to discern which formulas make for the most worthwhile investment. So, we did some digging and identified 7 French-made micellar water formulas that all get top ratings from beauty editors and nit-picky consumers, alike. Keep scrolling for all the best French micellar water elixirs the beauty industry has to offer. 

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Here are five ways to use micellar water on the daily:

  1. Use it as a face wash. No water or rinsing required. That’s right, when you’re too tired to remove your makeup at day’s end, just douse micellar water onto a reusable cotton pad and swipe away makeup and dirt, and it’s just as effective as washing with a cleanser and water. Keep a bottle by the bed and never fall asleep with makeup on again.
  2. Use it as a makeup remover. The gentle formulations of micellar water make it an optimal choice for removing makeup, especially eye makeup, where tugging at the sensitive eye area can actually cause fine lines and wrinkles. With micellar water, a few swipes and makeup is gone, even waterproof mascaraβ€”no tugging or pulling necessary.
  3. Use it as a toner. If you’re a fan of the double-cleanse, or if your skin is on the oilier side, cleansing with a cream or gel-based cleanser then following up with micellar water on a cotton pad is, literally, the deepestβ€”yet most gentleβ€”cleanse you can give your complexion.
  4. Use it to freshen up on the go. Post-gym workout or office-to-drinks can require a quick face freshening. Micellar water is the perfect choice, considering you don’t need actual water (or a sink or bathroom) to get your complexion clean. Just carry a travel-size version of micellar water in your bag, apply at your desk or in the car, and your complexion is as good as new.
  5. Use it to clean makeup brushes. Did you know your makeup brushes should be sanitized at least once a week? Think about all of the bacteria buildup on those bristles … it’s like a prime playground for germs. Micellar water is an easy and effective way to wipe off your brushes after each use, making them dirt- and bacteria-free.
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Shop our top picks for micellar waters below.

Bioderma

Hydrabio H2O

For those dealing with dry skin, this is one of the best micellar waters to turn to. French brand Bioderma crafted this micellar water with dry skin in mind. The non-comedogenic formula includes the brand’s signature Aquagenium patent, which contains a blend of niacinamide and apple seed extract. This blend helps the skin retain moisture and stimulate the circulation of water in the skin cells.

Caudalie

Micellar Cleansing

Like pretty much all micellar waters, this soap-free formula doesn’t require water and is safe for sensitive skin, that being said, it’s especially amazing for aging skin thanks to how nourishing and hydrating the ingredient list is; organic chamomile, peptides, Viniferine, and shea butter work together to soothe, lift, nourish, and improve overall brightness or dark spots.

Oriental Botanics

Aloe Vera, Green Tea and Cucumber

This micellar water can remove dirt and even waterproof makeup. It effectively clears residue from your skin without stripping the natural oils. It contains aloe vera, green tea, and cucumber that keep the skin hydrated, refreshed, and healthy. It has a gentle yet powerful formula, so you do not need to rub vigorously to remove makeup. It minimizes skin damage and irritation resulting from constant rubbing and rinsing.

Bioderma

Sensibio H2O

This is one of the most popular and best micellar waters for acne-prone skin available for purchase. It comes from Bioderma, a French pharmaceutical company. The formula is free of fragrance and alcohol. It also contains glycerides, which help hydrate the skin. This Bioderma micellar water is gentle yet effective at cleansing the skin, making it an excellent micellar water for those with acne-prone and irritated skin.

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More top picks for micellar waters below:

Simple Kind

Skin Cleansing Water

Simple has created one of the best micellar waters for oily skin. It effectively cleanses the skin, while not damaging the protective barrier. Beyond its impressive cleansing abilities, this formula is able to boost the skin’s hydration immediately by 90%. It contains triple purified water, hydrating glycerin, and soothing chamomile flower extract. The formula is also free of artificial colors, perfumes, or harsh chemicals, eliminating the risk of irritation.

 Christian Dior

Hydra Life Micellar Water No Rinse Cleanser

The effective formula of this Dior product removes all your makeup instantly and tones your skin. This micellar water contains soothing Echinacea flower extract. It increases the elasticity and maintains the natural balance of your skin. It also brightens your skin tone.

Payot Paris

LAIT MICELLAIRE DÉMAQUILLANT

If you’ve never heard of Payot Paris, you’re in for a treat. The beloved French brand makes some of the dreamiest complexion remedies, and this milky micellar elixir is at the top of our list. While the brand also makes a non-milky, water-like version, we’re obsessed with how velvety-smooth this micellar milk leaves our skin. That said, both formulas share the same lush skin actives like hyaluronic acid, raspberry extracts, and micelles. 

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