The Vanity: Skin Care & Cosmetics

The Vanity: Skin Care & Cosmetics

The Vanity: Skin Care & Cosmetics

Because our tolerance for products that promise miracles but deliver nothing has plummeted. A curated edit of skincare that actually works, makeup that enhances rather than masks, and honest reviews for the 40+ face.

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Recent Edits

Jan 10, 2026

At 46, my skincare routine has come full circle. From pandemic shopping sprees to a stripped-back "skin barrier recovery" phase, and now to what I call "informed maximalism." Here's what five years of trial, error, and a lot of empty bottles taught me about what mature skin actually needs.

Jan 10, 2026

At 46, my skincare routine has come full circle. From pandemic shopping sprees to a stripped-back "skin barrier recovery" phase, and now to what I call "informed maximalism." Here's what five years of trial, error, and a lot of empty bottles taught me about what mature skin actually needs.

Jan 10, 2026

At 46, my skincare routine has come full circle. From pandemic shopping sprees to a stripped-back "skin barrier recovery" phase, and now to what I call "informed maximalism." Here's what five years of trial, error, and a lot of empty bottles taught me about what mature skin actually needs.

Dec 30, 2025

After years of testing face mists, this Korean ceramide formula became the one I repurchase. Here's why it delivers Rhode's barrier benefits for a fraction of the price, and why that matters after 40.

Dec 30, 2025

After years of testing face mists, this Korean ceramide formula became the one I repurchase. Here's why it delivers Rhode's barrier benefits for a fraction of the price, and why that matters after 40.

Dec 30, 2025

After years of testing face mists, this Korean ceramide formula became the one I repurchase. Here's why it delivers Rhode's barrier benefits for a fraction of the price, and why that matters after 40.

Dec 1, 2025

We believe the evening ritual is the most critical moment for skin health over 40. We break down the lipid-science behind why one wash is never enough, and share the high-low cleanser pairings that currently occupy our own vanities.

Dec 1, 2025

We believe the evening ritual is the most critical moment for skin health over 40. We break down the lipid-science behind why one wash is never enough, and share the high-low cleanser pairings that currently occupy our own vanities.

Dec 1, 2025

We believe the evening ritual is the most critical moment for skin health over 40. We break down the lipid-science behind why one wash is never enough, and share the high-low cleanser pairings that currently occupy our own vanities.

Nov 19, 2025

The industry "gold standard" often comes with a triple-digit price tag. We investigate if the investment is really necessary by testing three accessible formulations that rival the luxury tier in stability, texture, and the requisite morning glow.

Nov 19, 2025

The industry "gold standard" often comes with a triple-digit price tag. We investigate if the investment is really necessary by testing three accessible formulations that rival the luxury tier in stability, texture, and the requisite morning glow.

Nov 19, 2025

The industry "gold standard" often comes with a triple-digit price tag. We investigate if the investment is really necessary by testing three accessible formulations that rival the luxury tier in stability, texture, and the requisite morning glow.

Nov 12, 2025

Navigating K-Beauty can feel overwhelming. We break down the four key serums from this viral house to help you curate the specific botanical solution for your skin’s current mood, from deep hydration to urgent barrier repair.

Nov 12, 2025

Navigating K-Beauty can feel overwhelming. We break down the four key serums from this viral house to help you curate the specific botanical solution for your skin’s current mood, from deep hydration to urgent barrier repair.

Nov 12, 2025

Navigating K-Beauty can feel overwhelming. We break down the four key serums from this viral house to help you curate the specific botanical solution for your skin’s current mood, from deep hydration to urgent barrier repair.

Oct 24, 2025

Cell turnover slows down in our 40s, but aggressive exfoliation can compromise a thinning skin barrier. We break down how to integrate The Ordinary’s budget-friendly 7% solution into your routine, outlining the specific "skin cycling" schedule needed to achieve a refined glow without irritation.ruin the skin barrier. Our Curator breaks down exactly how to use the budget-friendly Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% solution, including the specific "skin cycling" schedule to achieve a Quiet Luxury glow without the irritation.

Oct 24, 2025

Cell turnover slows down in our 40s, but aggressive exfoliation can compromise a thinning skin barrier. We break down how to integrate The Ordinary’s budget-friendly 7% solution into your routine, outlining the specific "skin cycling" schedule needed to achieve a refined glow without irritation.ruin the skin barrier. Our Curator breaks down exactly how to use the budget-friendly Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% solution, including the specific "skin cycling" schedule to achieve a Quiet Luxury glow without the irritation.

Oct 24, 2025

Cell turnover slows down in our 40s, but aggressive exfoliation can compromise a thinning skin barrier. We break down how to integrate The Ordinary’s budget-friendly 7% solution into your routine, outlining the specific "skin cycling" schedule needed to achieve a refined glow without irritation.ruin the skin barrier. Our Curator breaks down exactly how to use the budget-friendly Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% solution, including the specific "skin cycling" schedule to achieve a Quiet Luxury glow without the irritation.