favorite

  • Best Skincare Gifts for Normal to Dry Skin *Tested*

    Best Skincare Gifts for Normal to Dry Skin *Tested*

    Shopping for skincare products is not easy for everyone as it may seem. Firstly, dozens of skincare products are on the market with promises to correct and address the same concerns. Additionally, our skin goes through routine changes! A change in skin type or texture can present challenges for shopping for the right skincare products to help identify skincare concerns. Tbh, it’s chaotic. There needs to be an effective method in place to navigate all those skincare products on the market! So, we’ve compiled a guide to a few of our favorite skincare products. These products will make the best skincare gifts for the skincare lover in your life!

    (Whether that person is you or someone you may know.)

    Why You Should Trust Us: Reasons Why They’re The Best Skincare Gifts

    So if you’re asking for a friend, we want to tell you why you can trust us about these products. We got you! The reader should note that the skincare products in this guide work best for normal to dry skin types. This news is great for our readers and girlies who do not have many skincare concerns or goals. Secondly, we believe each item on this list is a great product to add to any beginner or expert skincare routine. Lastly, we’ve sorted through the best honest reviews from verified reviewers, we’ve tested these products ourselves, and we’re confident that skincare lovers will find them beneficial!

    DISCLAIMER: Heads up! My posts contain affiliate links. Above all, if you buy something through one of those links, you will not have to pay a penny more, but I receive a small commission. In other words, it helps keep the lights on. Thanks! 

    Cetaphil Moisturizing Lotion

    cetaphil moisturing lotion | best skincare gifts

    Let’s begin with the best skin care products that anyone can use daily. Cetaphil is a trusted brand by dermatologists and many consumers. Their body lotions and moisturizers provide hydration and nourishment that lasts all day. The Cetaphil Moisturizing Lotion is perfect for the face and body of all skin types (normal, dry, and sensitive).

    Price at the time of publishing: $12

    *What Our Reviewers Say: 

    “My skin really likes Cetaphil Moisturizing Lotion. I usually apply right after I bathe/shower and don’t have to worry about reapplying as I would with [some] other lotions/moisturizers, and I consider this [to be] a pretty ‘clean’ skincare product which is a plus. I trust enough to let my whole family use it for this reason, and I would purchase it again.” – Aspiring D, Influenster Reviewer

    Chapstick Total Hydration with Sea Minerals

    chapstick total hydration with sea minerals

    This 3-in-1 lip balm has a botanical-moisturizing complex to help keep lips moisturized for up to 8 hours. Reviewers found their lips feeling nongreasy, soft, and smooth after using this Chapstick with a triple-action formula. Everyone and anyone who has used Chapstick’s products before knows that their products renew and transform dry lips for a radiant and youthful look.

    Price at the time of publishing: $7

    *What Our Reviewers Say:  

    “I absolutely love this Total Hydration Sea Minerals Moisturizing lip exfoliator, and I use it at night as a moisturizer for my lips. [This] tends to leave my lips soft and hydrated the next morning. I really enjoy this new product.” – Jamie U, Influencer

    CosRx Niacinamide 15 Serum

    cosrx niacinamide serum | best skincare gifts

    Serums are the best gifts for addressing and treating skin care concerns. CosRx’s Niacinamide 15 Serum rapidly treats mild to severe acne breakouts and dark spots. The serum is light and absorbs fast into the skin, and reviewers noticed a change in appearance within 30 days!

    Price at the time of publishing: $25

    *What Our Reviewers Say:  

    “I think this is a good everyday serum! I’m a huge fan of niacinamide in my routine and have been for years, as there are spots on my face that are an oil slick if left to their own devices, and I have massive pores in those areas as well. This serum is definitely in the top five niacinamide serums that I have used. I can really tell a difference in the oil production throughout the day on my skin.” – Shelby M, Skincare Enthusiast, Makeup Junkie

    CosRx Vitamin C 23 Serum

    cosrx vitamin 23 serum

    We believe our readers will no longer be interested in searching for the fountain of youth after using this serum. CosRx’s Vitamin C 23 Serum targets aging, improve skin, and boosts skin radiance. What we love most about the Vitamin C 23 Serum is its 23% pure vitamin c, perfect for reducing wrinkles and enhancing elasticity.

    Price at the time of publishing: $25

    *What Our Reviewers Say:  

    “I [honestly wasn’t too] sure what to think about this product at first. The consistency also [appears] like a lightweight oil at first, so I was nervous about it leaving my combination skin oily. All [of] my concerns were put to rest when I put the product on my face! While [it] has a strong smell in the bottle, once you put it on your face, you don’t notice a thing.

    The formula absorbs quickly into the skin without leaving it looking greasy. After just a few days of using this product, I noticed a big improvement in my skin tone. I have quite a bit of sun damage from years of living in Florida by the beach, and this definitely helped reduce some of the discoloration and fine lines.” – Allyson C., Influenster Reviewer

    Dr. Teal’s Melatonin Shea Sugar Scrub

    dr. teal's melatonin shea sugar scrub | best skincare gifts

    We’re all for total body care, so the decision was easy to include this product in our gift guide. Dr. Teal’s brand has many scrubs, oils, and salts that people use to help relax and heal their bodies. Their brand is one of the popular go-tos for relaxation. Dr. Teal’s Shea Sugar Scrub has vitamins like A and E and essential oils to exfoliate and lock in moisture. Our readers should note that a sugar scrub’s recommended use is 1-2 times weekly to avoid over-exfoliating the skin.

    Price at the time of publishing: $6

    *What Our Reviewers Say:  

    “I recently tried Dr. Teal’s Melatonin Shea Sugar Scrub, and I have to say, I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed it. [The combination of] shea butter and sugar crystals creates a gentle yet effective scrub that leaves my skin feeling soft and smooth. The added melatonin is a nice touch, and I appreciate the calming benefits it provides.” – Kira A., Influenster Reviewer

    Dr. Teal’s Sleep Body Lotion

    dr. teal's sleep body lotion

    The third moisturizer to make our list is Dr. Teal’s Sleep Body Lotion. If you’re trying out Dr. Teal’s Melatonin Shea Sugar Scrub (the fourth-best skincare gift in this guide), we recommend pairing the sleep body lotion with it for maximum results. How to use: use the sugar scrub during bathtime. Then, follow up with the sleep body lotion after your bath for additional moisture. Many testers agree that its lightweight formula works to promote better sleeping.

    Price at the time of publishing: $5

    *What Our Reviewers Say:  

    “I came across Dr. Teal’s Sleep Body Lotion at Wal-Mart. Let me tell you this [lotion] is part of my new nightly bath routine. The shea butter smell is not overpowering the essential oil in the lotion. To me, the best part is the melatonin in the lotion. It’s everything you need to relax your body at the end of the night.” – Leesha H., Blogger

    Mele Plump It Up Nourishing Cream

    mele plump it up nourishing cream

    So just like all of the other moisturizers on this list, this melanin-rich nourishing cream is designed for dry skin care. What we love most about the Mele brand is that they make skincare products for women of color. We know firsthand about the lack of skincare products on the market that are inclusive to all skin types and how that makes it even harder to find products that work. Mele’s Plump It Up Nourishing Cream is just one of their products that identifies specific needs such as dryness and uneven skin tone in melanin-rich skin. 

    Price at the time of publishing: $12

    *What Our Reviewers Say:  

    “I was excited to try this brand out since this is Black-owned skincare. It isn’t oily and doesn’t give any scent, and I’d definitely recommend it for those with dry skin.” – Fallon B., Influenster Reviewer

    Philosophy Pore Minimizing Serum

    philosophy pore minimizing serum

    The Purity Pore Minimizing Serum decreases the appearance of pores instantly. If you’re looking for products that show improvement results quickly, we feel you can’t go wrong with this serum + multitasking moisturizer (more on this soon). We noticed a difference in our skin’s appearance, noting fewer blackheads and clogged pores; within 24 hours of using this serum. We gotta love a product that boasts of purity being made simplistic!

    Price at the time of publishing: $39

    *What Our Reviewers Say:  

    “I have been using Philosophy products for almost a decade now. Their products never let me down [and] this [one] has done wonders on my skin. As for pore minimizing, I do notice a slight difference when combining with other actives.” – Chelsea W., Content Creator

    Philosophy Hope In A Jar Moisturizer

    philosophy hope in a jar moisturizer

    READ FULL REVIEW: Starting the New Year With Hope And A Radiant Glow

    We raved about this moisturizer on It’s The Lewk all last year as one of our favorite new products. This product is definitely one of our go-to moisturizers and is used routinely in our skincare regimen. In addition to targeting dehydration, this multitasking moisturizer promotes skin surface cell renewal and boosts radiance. We’ve never experienced a glow like this with any other moisturizer!

    Price at the time of publishing: $42

    *What Our Reviewers Say:  

    “I’m so pleasantly surprised by this product, mostly because I’m super picky when it comes to face creams, but especially when they promise to be the solution to several skin concerns like this one who says it can improve both fine lines and skin texture while also turning dull, dry skin into glowing well-hydrated skin. My expectations were high, and my skepticism even higher. I found myself cutting out several other products because this truly is a multitasking cream.” – Ine L., Influencer

    Rimmel London Wonder Serum

    Rimmel London wonder serum

    READ FULL REVIEW: A Special First Look At Influenster Rimmel London Voxbox

    WATCH YOUTUBE REVIEW: Rimmel London Voxbox Unboxing

    Enjoy longer, fuller, and revitalized lashes when you use Rimmel London’s serum for eyebrows and lashes. Its gentle, nutrient-rich conditioning formula supports lash and eyebrow growth. This serum is perfect for growing eyebrows and eyelashes for a fuller or thicker appearance.

    Price at the time of publishing: $8

    *What Our Reviewers Say:  

    “I was genuinely impressed by the results of this easy-to-use lash/brow serum! I had noticeable results with longer, fuller bare lashes and with mascara after just a few weeks of use. The formula is thicker than other lash serums I’ve tried, but I think that’s actually an advantage because it’s less likely to run into your eyes. This product is very affordable and is a great value compared with other popular lash serums on the market. It didn’t cause any irritation, redness, or discomfort to my eyes or the skin around my eyes.” – Gabriela S., Influenster Reviewer


  • 12 Classic Pink and Red Lipsticks for Valentine’s Day

    12 Classic Pink and Red Lipsticks for Valentine’s Day

    Cupid shot me with his bow. I have fallen in love. My love for all things beauty, glamour, and makeup runs deep. I love everything– eyeshadow, foundation, mascara. The truth is I have to say that there’s no beauty product I admire more than gorgeous lipstick. A good lipstick will have you feeling like you’re worth more than just chocolates and roses. A good lipstick can make any outfit pop and appear effortless– especially red or pink lipstick. I have many pink and red lipstick shades that I’ve worn that have ultimately become my favorites and are regulars in my makeup bag year-round (not just on February 14th).

    If you’re looking for ideas for your Valentine’s Day (or night) makeup look, the first thing you should know is you can never go wrong with pink or red lips. They are classic colors of beauty. Just listen to Cupid and wear your heart on your lips and not your sleeves this Valentine’s Day with 12 beautiful pink and red lipsticks for any skin tone.

    Disclaimer: Heads up! My posts contain affiliate links. If you buy something through one of those links, you won’t pay a penny more, but I’ll get a small commission, which helps keep the lights on. Thanks!

    This guide will cover:

    • shades for any skin tone
    • my favorite red/ pink lipsticks
    • classic red/pink shades
    • ideas to complete your Valentine’s Day makeup look

    Favorite Classic Pink Lipsticks

    Bring out your soft and compassionate side with any shade of pink lipstick. These feminine lipstick colors will definitely have you feeling “pretty in pink” and are perfect for any skin tone.

    M.A.C Candy Yum Yum (Pink)

    Candy Yum Yum gives a full-face attitude! It’s a super bright Barbie pink color that is perfect for any Valentine’s Day look. Although Candy Yum Yum is a matte finish, it doesn’t dry out your lips and will have you and your date wanting to pucker up all night long.

    Fenty Beauty Unlocked Stunna Lip Paint (Pink)

    Honestly, any color from the Stunna Lip Paint collection is a must-have. If you haven’t tried the collection yet, this guide will inspire you to check it out. Several shades from the Stunna Lip Paint collection make this list! Unlocked is a vivid pink that you can wear all day. Your lips are guaranteed to be kissable and smooth.

    Fenty Beauty Uncuffed Stunna Lip Paint (Pink)

    This rosy mauve color is so pretty. Lipsticks from this collection have a soft matte finish– so dry lips are impossible! What makes this pink lipstick a classic is its versatility for every skin tone. It appears pink but can also be a pale, purple-ish color.

    M.A.C Flat Out Fabulous (Pink)

    Flat Out Fabulous is a beautiful, bright magenta lipstick with a matte finish. It is a super fun color if you are in the mood to feel fabulous on Valentine’s Day. This shade of lipstick comes from M.A.C’s Retro Matte collection (along with Ruby Woo— another shade on this list of classic pink/red lipsticks for Valentine’s Day).

    Fenty Beauty Flamingo Acid MatteMoiselle (Pink)

    Flamingo Acid is the exception to the rule. It is a lightweight, ultra-slim lipstick that glides on creamy and stays put. I love Flamingo Acid because it defines my lip curves and gives me fuller lips.

    Fenty Beauty Fu$$y Gloss Bomb (Pink)

    If you are not in the mood for lipstick, you can always go with a shiny gloss on Valentine’s Day. The Fu$$y Gloss Bomb is an ultimate gotta-have-it lip stain. Why? It gives a shine like no other & is super hydrating. Fu$$y is the essential finishing touch to a Glossy Valentine’s Day.

    Favorite Classic Red Lipsticks

    If you are passionate about red, you can never go wrong with this classic Valentine’s Day color. These fiery lipsticks will make anyone fall in love! 

    Revlon ColorStay Satin Ink (Red)

    This all-new lipstick has become a new favorite in my makeup bag. I recently received this product from Influenster to review, and I fell in love with its smooth, creamy texture. The Satin Ink is a matte lipstick with a shine finish and is non-drying. (Price + Link)

    M.A.C Ruby Woo (Red)

    I mean… what hasn’t been said about Ruby Woo that needs to be said? We love the woo! It is such a classic lipstick that continues to stand the test of time. It looks perfect on any lip! The Retro Matte Collection from M.A.C truly has some unforgettable shades.

    Fenty Beauty Uncensored Stunna Lip Paint (Red)

    If you are in the mood for uncensored activities for Valentine’s Day, this lip paint is the perfect addition to the equation. The way the Stunna Lip Paint glides across the lips so smoothly will make this universal red irresistible to you (and anyone else for that matter). 

    Revlon ColorStay Matte Lite Crayon (Red)

    Another new lipstick that just got added to my list of favorites. This crayon is 30% lighter than your average lipstick. I primarily use this as a lip liner, but it does give full coverage.

    Fenty Beauty Griselda MatteMoiselle (Red)

    If you are into deep, bold colors, then Griselda is the girl for you. This lipstick shade is not as bright as most colors on this list, but it is still a gorgeous shade of lipstick. Griselda is a burgundy red with a matte finish. Fenty Beauty and Sephora no longer carry this lipstick, but here’s a dupe I found online for $19.

    M.A.C Sheen Supreme (New Temptation) 

    My first M.A.C lipstick ever. All hail New Temptation! I love everything about this lipstick. The color is a fire red that leaves the lips shiny like a pretty penny. Unfortunately, M.A.C discontinued New Temptation, so if you were interested in this red lipstick– you will not be able to purchase it. However, if you are really interested in trying it, there’s a dupe you can try out.

    There you have it. 12 classic pink and red lipsticks you must check out for Valentine’s Day. These shades are perfect for day or night activities. The desire to wear pink or red has never been louder than on Valentine’s Day.

    Sign-up for my newsletter, #TheLewkDigest, to get free product guides to any of the products I mention on the blog.

    Each product guide has

    • Features and Benefits
    • Honest reviews
    • Prices and Store Locations
    • Promotions, Discount Codes, and Coupons

    Express your love for beauty this Valentine’s Day with any of these classic lipstick shades. They are all tried and true!

    Related: Is The New Celestial Odyssey Holiday Palette Worth Trying?

    What are some of your favorite classic or new lipsticks? Have an idea for a shade that should be on the list? Leave me a comment below.


  • Getting To Know Me: Shocking Secrets Exposed

    Getting To Know Me: Shocking Secrets Exposed

    I’ll admit it. I forget that you all don’t know every little thing about me. I’m as open as I can be, but sometimes I like to keep a little bit of mystery. However, getting to know me is not totally complicated. Getting to know me has everything to do with me feeling free to get personal. Therefore, today’s post is all about ME!

    People always seem to make a list of the things that they despise or dislike more than they seem to talk about the things that make them happy! We spend so much time focused on the things that we wish to change; without reflecting on what we love the most. The things that we love the most are what keep us inspired and should help us to see that the things we dislike are minimal compared to the things that bring us joy. In no particular order, I created a list of my best-loved things.

    (more…)