This viral red-light therapy wand promises glowing skin. We tested it. |
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NYT Wirecutter |
The Solawave wand — a sleek, handheld device significantly less expensive than many red-light masks — promises "glowing skin in 2 weeks." It has earned skin-care cult status. But our diverse panel of Wirecutter testers didn't love it. There are some nice features, sure. But as staff writer Hannah Frye puts it: "At the end of the day, it's neither the most efficient nor the easiest way to apply red light to your skin." For that, you'll want a red-light mask, which treats the entire face at once.
And of course, no red-light treatment can lift all of the weight on its own — these devices are meant to be accessories, added to your full skin-care routine. As for that routine, our brand-new skin-care essentials are a good place to start.
Our full verdict on the Solawave→
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Your daily deal: A luxe shower oil one Wirecutter writer calls "a bottle of literal liquid gold" |
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L'Occitane |
Staff writer Kaitlin Mahar swears by this luxe, moisturizing body oil as her secret to low-effort supple skin. Super-indulgent yet relatively mild, this formula transforms from a runny oil into a creamy salve — and won't turn your bathroom into a slippery mess. Plus? It smells divine.
Why we love this (on-sale!) shower oil→
More from our beauty experts |
One last thing: The Rhode Barrier Butter lives up to the hype |
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NYT Wirecutter |
Our experts are normally a bit skeptical of celebrity brands, which have a reputation of underdelivering and overpromising. One notable exception? Rhode Barrier Butter, which is an ultra-thick, dew-inducing moisturizing balm. It's not for everybody, but if you have very dry skin and crave a glistening, dewy finish, it's an excellent choice that leaves skin plump and hydrated.
"I have a hard time putting this moisturizer down"→
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