Lifestyle

How to Treat Causes of Dry, Flaky Skin, According to Dermatologists

Published

4 weeks ago

April 14, 2024

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There’s so much to embrace about the warm weather season ahead. Al fresco dining, backyard gardening, and plenty of sun-soaked days. But of course, with the opportunity to ditch our winter layers comes plenty of toxic messaging. Hello… “summer body.” Thankfully, in the era of increased neutrality, a summer body depends on nothing more than existing in the months between May and August. It’s freeing to align your routine to your changing needs instead of trying to change your body for the seasons. With that approach in mind, my summer prep looks like resetting my skincare routine, turning over my wardrobe, prioritizing beauty sleep, and upping my body care rituals to address common causes of dry, flaky skin.

Featured image from our interview with Megan OâNeill by BelathÃ©e Photography.

Understanding Dry, Flaky Skin Causes

In the summer, I swap out my winter skincare for a more streamlined routine. Think: lightweight face oils and makeup multi-sticks in lieu of heavier moisturizers. But whatever time I save in paring back these steps goes straight to my body. Of course, when the sun’s out, I show more of my skin. So I try to stop common dry, flaky skin at the root by being diligent with my body care routine.

But as with any element of beauty, you don’t know what you don’t know. To get a clear handle on exactly what my body care routine needs, I went to the experts for answers.

“The body often gets neglected,” says board-certified dermatologist Dr. Deanne Mraz. “We tend to seek out and splurge on facial skincare, but there is now a growing awareness that many of the same active ingredients will benefit the body (and scalp!).”

Read on to understand the causes of dry, flaky skinâas well as common mistakes to avoid if you have genetic concerns or skin conditions like psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, or just too much sun exposure. Our experts also recommended some steps to add to your body care routine. Start now for smooth, hydrated skin all summer and beyond.

Meet the Experts

Deanne Mraz, MD, FAAD. President and Founder, DMR Research, President and Co-Founder, Modern Dermatology, and Assistant Clinical Professor of Dermatology, Yale New Haven Hospital

Anar Mikailov, MD, FAAD. Board-Certified Dermatologist, Co-Founder of Skintensive, and Co-Author of Fitzpatrickâs Color Atlas and Synopsis of Clinical Dermatology, 9th Edition

Dry Skin Symptoms

Mraz: Dry, flaky skin can be triggered by our environment (cold, dry weather), sun damage, over-bathing, sensitization from an allergic reaction, or injury to the skin. Anything that compromises the skin barrier can lead to dry, dehydrated skin that flakes.

Mikailov: Various factors include:

Genetic predisposition
Hormone status
External factors, such as products or environment (ambient humidity level and temperature)
Pregnancy
Perimenopause and menopause
Maturing skin

How does the skin on our face differ from that on our body?

Mraz: Skin needs vary by body part. Some of this is based on how much skin is exposed to the environment, and other times, it has to do with its structural makeup. For example, because the face is almost always exposed to the environment, it suffers more wear and tear from UV and weather exposure.

Mikailov: The skin on the face is thinner and more delicate than that on the rest of the body. The pores are also smaller, but sebaceous glands are more abundant on the face. Generally, the skin on the face should be treated more gently and delicately.

What skin types are more prone to dryness?

Mraz: As we age, our skin becomes more vulnerable to dryness. This is largely due to hormonal fluctuations that impact the amount of sebum our skin produces naturally. Skin prone to irritation or conditions like eczema is typically dryer. Some medical conditions are linked to dry skin, such as thyroid disease and anemia.

Mikailov: It’s a myth that all bumps on the skin are acne and can be treated with the same products and ingredients as facial acne. However, some bumps may be due to fungal acne, folliculitis, or any other infections that cause skin bumps. Sometimes, itâs best to see a board-certified dermatologist.

How to Address Common Causes of Dry, Flaky Skin

Mraz: Avoid long, hot showers, which dehydrate the skin and compromise the skin barrier. Also, avoid products with fragrance (or even anything that’s artificially fragrance-free) and alcohol, which can trigger dry skin and lead to irritation and eczema flare-ups.

Mikailov: After showers (ideally within three minutes), apply a rich moisturizer filled with plant-based ingredients that help maintain the skin barrier. Think plant oils and butters like coconut, jojoba, shea butter, squalane, and ceramides. Avoid harsh, strong soaps. Lukewarm water is much better than hot water, which can strip the skin of its natural oils.

For those who shower in the mornings, consider wearing compression socks after applying moisturizer and before heading to work. This is especially important for professionals on their feet! Compression socks are an excellent prevention approach to maintaining optimal vein health and preventing varicose veins. And for exposed parts of the body, donât forget to apply sunscreen with an adequate SPF.

Best Ingredients for Extremely Dry Skin

Mikailov: Look for emollients that increase skin hydration, repair the skin barrier, and reduce Transepidermal Water Loss (TEWL). I prefer plant-based oils and butters like coconut oil and jojoba oil over mineral oil as they mimic the skinâs natural oils.

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is one of my favorites for the bodyâespecially in infants and kids because it has been studied extensively in individuals with eczema. This natural plant-based oil has what I call “miracle” properties, including excellent moisture restoration (emollient properties) and moisture loss prevention (occlusive properties).

In addition to excellent emollient and occlusive properties, coconut oil is primarily made of lauric acid, a fatty acid that naturally lowers the bacterial burden of Staphylococcus aureus (SA). This bacteria is found in 60-100% of individuals with eczema, and a high bacterial burden is associated with poor eczema control.

Organic coconut oil is always an ingredient I recommend for my patients but it is challenging to find a product that is not too oily or greasy. KP Away Lipid Repair Emollient is one of few products on the market with under 10 ingredients that uses coconut oil and is fast-absorbing. Use twice daily, ensuring one of these applications is within three minutes after showering.

Squalane

This oil was created to replicate the squalene our body naturally produces. Squalene is secreted by our sebaceous glands to hydrate and protect our skin.

Ceramides

Ceramides are fatty acids found in abundance in all layers of our skin. Ceramides act as glue between skin cells and create a barrier to prevent allergens or toxic substances from penetrating the skin. One of the most critical parts of preventing eczema flares is replenishing this natural ceramide-based defense system. CeraVe Moisturizing Cream is a classic product with ceramides.

Sea Buckthorn

This is a plant-derived oil with incredible anti-inflammatory properties. When combined with other moisturizing factors, this oil has been found in multiple studies to help alleviate atopic dermatitis.

The Best Moisturizing Body Care Routine for Dry Skin

Sometimes, a tub of Vaseline cannot be beat. But there’s joy in crafting an extensive, elevated body care routine. Think of it as the Goldilocks ritual for dry, flaky skinâand the experts approve.

“Start by regularly exfoliating the skin on your body. This helps to move along dead skin cells and allows the products you apply afterward to penetrate more effectively,” says Dr Mraz. “I like dry-brushing before you hop in the shower for this or using a gentle, fine-particle scrub in the shower.

“For hydration and skin barrier repair, seek out humectants like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and urea and emollients like ceramides, lanolin, and squalane. You can then add an occlusive layer, such as Vaseline or Aquaphor, on dry, scaly patches or areas like the elbows and knees. This helps seal the moisture youâve applied underneath. It also acts as a protective barrier between the skin and the outside world while it heals.”

Best Body Exfoliating Tools

Physical exfoliation isn’t just a satisfying addition to your routine; it’s a crucial first step to banishing dry, flaky skin. It also helps clear keratosis pilaris and supercharges your skin’s absorption of other hydrating products.

HigherDOSE Supercharge Copper Body Brush

Body brushing gently reveals smoother skin by polishing off surface debris while clearing clogged pores and prepping your body for deeper hydration. It’s also a meditative practice that can improve circulation and lymphatic drainage. The copper bristles in this dry brush help energize and detox your skin.

GOSHI Exfoliating Shower Towel

This exfoliating mesh shower net takes a traditional Japanese practice and puts it into your routine. The material is gentle but effective at scrubbing your skin, preventing breakouts, and resisting bacteriaâunlike your loofah.

Esker Body Plane

Inspired by ancient beauty rituals, this body plane pairs best with body oil to exfoliate and evenly spread your products. It scrapes off dead skin and unclogs pores while boosting circulation and product efficacy.

Best Hydrating Body Cleansers

Using a stripping cleanser can be one of the main causes of dry skin. Using the wrong cleanser sabotages your routine from the start. Any hydrating cleanser will do the trick for nourished, smooth skin.

iota Supervitamin Body Wash+ Clarifying

If you’re trying to heal your body microbiome (skin barrier), this is the cleanser for you. iota makes products to balance pre- and post-biotics, which is key for achieving your healthiest skin.

Nopalera Cactus Shower Gel

I’m calling it now: prickly pear is the next buzzy beauty ingredient. Filled with hydrating ingredients and vitamins, it makes this juicy shower gel a hydrating hero.

Alo Mega-C Body Wash

Antioxidants and vitamin C combine with natural oils to make this ultra-hydrating cleanser. It’s ideal for your gym bag to cleanse and prevent breakouts after a workout without stripping your skin.

Best Body Oils

To maximize absorption, the best time to apply body oils is while your skin is still damp. Choose oils that are lightweight, fast-absorbing, and full of nourishing ingredients that hydrate and strengthen your skin.

Osea Malibu Undaria Algae Body Oil

Enriched with superfood sea algae and antioxidants, this hydrating body oil is proven to improve skin elasticity for skin that isn’t just smooth, but also toned and sculpted.

BYOMA Nourishing Body Oil

This barrier-boosting oil contains dermatologist-recommended ingredients like jojoba oil and sea buckthorn oil. Combined with the brand’s signature barrier lipid complex, these ingredients help strengthen your skin barrier for glowy, healthy skin all over.

Wonder Valley Hinoki Body Oil

An olive oil base makes this nourishing oil an anti-aging superstar that deeply nourishes and protects for soft, smooth skin. Plus, the smell of Japanese hinoki is intoxicating in all the best ways.

Best Chemical Body Exfoliators

Chemical exfoliants work on and beneath the skin’s surface to prevent flaky skin and encourage cell regeneration, energizing your skin and helping maintain its elasticity.

Kosas Good Body Skin AHA + Enzyme Exfoliating Body Wash

Add chemical exfoliants to your in-shower routine with this gently exfoliating body wash. I swear by its combination of enzymes and AHAs to slough off dead skin cells and cleanse deep within your pores to prevent dry, flaky skin causes before they occur.

U Beauty Resurfacing Body Compound

Promote cell turnover with this radical body treatment. It resurfaces dead skin cells, clears clogged pores, and breaks down body bumps to banish dry, flaky skin. Trust: it’s well worth the splurge.

Youth To The People 10% AHA + Yerba Mate Smoothing Energy Body Scrub

Combine physical and chemical exfoliation with this AHA body scrub. Lactic and glycolic acids gently clear pores, while olive powder and jojoba beads buff away pore-clogging impurities. Meanwhile, energizing ingredients and antioxidants ensure that your skin is not stripped.

Best Hydrating Body Serums

These moisturizing body treatments are designed to infuse your skin with extra hydration and promote a strong, healthy skin barrier.

Soft Services Speed Soak Skin Rehydrating Gel

This ultra-hydrating lotion quenches your skin’s thirst and rapidly seeps into your skin without residue.

NÃ©cessaire The Body Serum

All the best ingredients come together in this serumâhyaluronic acid, niacinamide, ceramides, glycerin, aloe, and more. No wonder it’s a fan favorite.

Topicals Like Butter Body Mist

This hydrating serum mists over your skin, infusing it with soothing ingredients to prevent dryness and flakes. Its silky texture seeps into your skin without stickiness or residue.

Best Body Sunscreens

Sun exposure can wreck all your hard work by weakening your skin barrier â so be sure to wear adequate SPF and reapply often. Here are the sunscreens that are hydrating and preventative.

Bask Suncare SPF 50 Lotion

I recently took this on vacation and all my friends kept asking to borrow this. My staple sunscreen, I use it head to toe and am always impressed by the smooth texture, the lack of white cast, and the compliments I get on its scent.

Cay Skin Isle Body Oil SPF 30

This lightweight oil gives your skin an instant glow while protecting your skin from the elements. It contains hydrating ingredients like sea moss and squalane for long-lasting hydration.

Sol de Janeiro Rio Radiance SPF 50 Body Spray Sunscreen

What can’t this body spray do? It’s SPF 50, fortified with nourishing niacinamide, and has that signature Sol de Janeiro scent. I can’t get enough of this for beach days since it’s a treat to reapply.

More Tools to Add to Your Body Care Routine

These effective, and sometimes unexpected, tools address dry, flaky skin causes from the root.

Hey Dewy Wireless Humidifier

Sleeping with a humidifier keeps your skin from drying out while you sleep. This portable humidifier sits on your bedside and keeps your face and body moisturized.

Bombas Everyday Compression socks

As Mikailov suggests, sleeping in compression socks keeps blood flowing and prevents varicose veins. It also increases your products’ efficacy while you sleep.

Hanni Water Balm Custom Hydration Body Moisturizer Mist

This weightless spray is perfect for topping off your routine and refreshing skin during the day. It gently mists over your skin and hydrates like a deep moisturizer with no sticky residue.

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Lifestyle

Do Your Workout Clothes Contain Endocrine-Disrupting Microplastics?

Published

3 hours ago

May 9, 2024

Denise John

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Lifestyle

24 Dinner Party Menu Ideas to Get You Excited About Hosting

Published

5 hours ago

May 9, 2024

Camille Styles

Recently, a good friend called me in a near-panic: “I’m having eight friends over tomorrow night—what in the world should I make for that many people?” I’ve been there, and it can be tough to think of dinner party menu ideas that are elevated and elegant for your evening crowd. Especially if you don’t want to spend all day in the kitchen and/or lose your mind in the process.

But thanks to the fact that I started my career in catering (combined with the countless dinner parties I’ve thrown over the years), I’ve assembled quite a collection of dinner party menu ideas to feed a crowd that check all my required boxes. All of these dinner party recipes are:

Crowd-pleasing dishes that almost everyone loves.
Leverage large-batch cooking, like a sheet pan or grill, so that I’m not laboriously sautéing 16 individual fish fillets or frying 12 eggs to top salads.
And most importantly, I can do almost all the prep in advance so that by the time my guests arrive, I can join the party with them.

I divided this post into recipes that I make for dinners with 4-6 guests (due to the cooking techniques, or the fact that they incorporate pricier ingredients), and the recipes that are really easy to double or triple to feed a true crowd. These leverage larger cuts of meat, build-your-own components that let guests adapt to their dietary needs, and less expensive ingredients so your party budget doesn’t get out of control.

The next time you find yourself hosting an evening get-together and wondering what to make, bookmark this post for 24 easy dinner party menu ideas to feed a crowd. Trust me: all these recipes will leave your dinner guests happy, satisfied, and waiting for when their next invite arrives in the mail.

Dinner Party for 4-6 Guests

Ratatouille-Style Roasted Vegetable Pasta

What makes it party-ready: At first glance, a pasta dish might not seem special enough for a dinner party meal. But this isn’t just any pasta recipe. While it’s easy to prep and cook, it makes the most of a few flavor-packed ingredients that’ll take your meal up a notch. Plus, the pop of green it brings to your table rivals any floral centerpiece. Major wow-factor.

Make it a feast:

Roast Chicken With Tomatoes, Lemons, & Cilantro Salsa Verde

What makes it party-ready: Everyone loves roast chicken. This one has just enough interesting and surprising flavors to make it feel dinner party-worthy. Those charred lemons—yum! Watch me make it start to finish.

Make it a feast:

What makes it party-ready: My grilled pizza is truly made for a party. But I’ll admit, it’s a little chaotic to make for more than six people. That’s why I usually bring it out at more intimate gatherings where everyone can get involved. (This pizza party was one of my favorite gatherings ever.) The recipe above is for my homemade pizza dough. Make several dough balls in advance—I usually plan on three doughs for six people—let them rest at room temp for a couple hours before party time and proceed with your favorite pizza toppings and method of cooking.

Make it a feast:

Grilled New York Strip Steaks With Chimichurri

What makes it party-ready: This is probably mine and Adam’s most frequently-made meal for a dinner party. It’s incredibly easy to pull together and fun for everyone to hang out down by the grill while we make it. I usually buy one large New York Strip for every two people. Slice into 1″ pieces and serve on a big platter surrounded by grilled tomatoes. Since this is a pricier cut of meat, it feels really special and I typically reserve it for a smaller dinner party. For a bigger gathering, an affordable cut of steak like flank is a great option, too. (You’ll just want to marinate it beforehand and adjust the cooking time.)

Make it a feast:

Hot Honey Salmon With Coconut Crunch

What makes it party-ready: These salmon bowls are a great meal for a summertime gathering on a hot day. They feel so light and refreshing, but still really special. For a girls’ night, I love to set out all the toppings and let everyone build their own bowls. Not only is it a fun way to get people interacting, but it also allows guests with other dietary restrictions to pick and choose their ingredients.

Make it a feast: One of the beautiful things about this dish is that it’s truly a complete meal in a bowl. The only thing I’d add is refreshing scoops of mango sorbet (or mango-basil ice cream) for dessert!

Simple Zucchini Pasta

What makes it party-ready: Sometimes, a party just needs pasta. That said, it’s not ideal for serving a super large group since it does need a bit of last-minute attention (plus, you’d need a really big pan for tossing it all together). This streamlined zucchini pasta combines simple ingredients into one luscious and luxurious bowl that everyone loves.

Make it a feast: A loaf of crusty bread, plus a simple salad with fresh greens (and a bottle of pinot gris).

Orange-Chili Glazed Pork Tenderloin With Carrot Pesto and Grilled Carrots

What makes it party-ready: I make this one when my mother-in-law comes over since she loves pork tenderloin. This dish is perfect with a double dose of carrots. It’s a great one to make outside on the grill, but in the cooler months, you can also roast it all in the oven. Pork tenderloin is one of those cuts of meat that is made for serving a crowd. You could easily scale this recipe depending on your guest count, then slice it up and arrange on a big family-style platter.

Make it a feast: The carrots are a super satisfying side dish on their own, and the pesto adds richness and flavor, so you’re almost already in feast territory with just this recipe. For a dinner party, I’d add some herb-roasted potatoes or a simple kale salad.

Grilled Salmon with Stone Fruit Salsa

What makes it party-ready: This is one of those super satisfying recipes that feels way fancier than it is. And in my experience, salmon is one of the most universally loved fish dishes. Bonus: it’s foolproof! Grilling salmon on a cedar plank is an easy way to infuse this fish with smoky flavors while ensuring it stays tender and moist. Plus, that stone fruit salsa adds the perfect bit of sweetness to complement the charred fish.

Make it a feast:

I like serving this salmon with a side of herbed quinoa or wild rice. The fluffy texture and nutty flavor offer a satisfying contrast.
For a lighter side, toss together a simple green salad with a citrus vinaigrette to add some tang to the mix.

Sheet Pan Halibut With Italian Salsa Verde and Asparagus

What makes it party-ready: Here is one of those super-impressive meals that also happens to take very little effort. Why? Because halibut is one of the best fish ever. Plus, the fact that this is made on a sheet pan allows you to easily make several fillets at once. It has a light, clean flavor and buttery, flaky texture, so it doesn’t take much for it to be delicious. I simply roast mine with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then top it with a bright Italian salsa verde.

Make it a feast: Add some potatoes that can roast right along with the fish on a separate baking sheet. Or, you can opt for a little more green and serve it with a big kale salad.

Grilled Yogurt-Marinated Chicken with All the Herbs

What makes it party-ready: If you haven’t tried marinating your chicken in Greek yogurt, this recipe will change that fast. It’s beyond easy (and inexpensive) to throw chicken thighs in a delicious marinade and grill for a crowd. Fresh herbs and honey add a bit of zest and sweetness that complement this juicy chicken.

Make it a feast: Serve this protein with a side salad or crispy roasted potatoes for an all-around simple and delicious meal that everyone will be gushing about.

Sweet & Spicy Braised Short Ribs

What makes it party-ready: Everyone always asks me for this braised short rib recipe after dinner parties, and they’re always shocked to learn how simple it is. I like to add some fresh herbs over the top along with red onion and lemon zest to brighten up the plate. Because presentation matters.

Make it a feast:

Spicy Tuna Tostada with Avocado and Crispy Shallots

What makes it party-ready: Toastadas are a go-to for a few reasons whenever I’m looking to impress my guests with easy dinner party menu ideas. They’re customizable, so everyone can pick and choose what they want to add. This recipe is also a winner for gluten-free guests. Simply swap in a Siete tortilla baked in the oven for a grain-free and gluten-free tostada.

Make it a feast: This Mexican chopped salad is just hearty enough to round out your meal.

Dinner Party Recipes to Feed a Crowd

Damn That’s a Keeper Winter Vegetable Lasagna

What makes it party-ready: Lasagna can lean a little labor-intensive, but take heart: this dish can be made in advance. In my experience, all variations on the classic lasagna are winners—but this spin is my favorite take yet. It’s hearty and warming without any meat, and the filling makes the most of everyone’s favorite fall veg, butternut squash. The flavors are rich and complex—and if you’re feeling up to it, the recipe also shows you how to make the pasta yourself. It’s a dish worth bragging about.

Make it a feast: Cut the lasagna’s richness with a bitter side, like this radicchio salad. Or, if you want to send the fall flavors home, this apple and arugula salad is one of my favorites.

Danielle Walker’s Turkey Chili Verde

What makes it party-ready: When the colder months hit, I love serving dishes that evoke elevated comfort. They’re simple and warming, but just special enough. This flavor-packed chili comes courtesy of Danielle Walker, our go-to for paleo-friendly, delicious recipes. If you want to make it vegetarian, simply omit the turkey and bump up all the veggies. Danielle suggests either diced zucchini or minced portobello mushrooms. Yum!

Make it a feast: Salty tortilla chips or your favorite cornbread are ideal for dipping. Top each bowl with sour cream or Greek yogurt, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime

Slow-Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala

What makes it party-ready: Even those who aren’t well-versed in Indian cuisine will love chicken tikka masala. Although I frequently make this recipe on a busy weekday for our family, it’s also perfect for a big feast. (Triple or even quadruple the recipe—your slow cooker can handle it!) Plus, the fact that you make this several hours before dinner and it cooks away while you’re free to do other stuff is pretty awesome.

Make it a feast: An Indian-inspired feast means serving one or two other dishes like Saag Paneer, Samosa Chaat Fries, or Indian Butter Cauliflower. Also required: warm naan and a big pot of rice.

Easy Mexican Chicken Tortilla Soup

What makes it party-ready: I’ve made this soup for countless book clubs, family gatherings, and friends who have just had babies. Everyone says it’s the best chicken tortilla soup they’ve had, and it’s just as easy to make a big batch by scaling the ingredients. Sure, a pot of soup may not sound like a party, but watch me make it here and see for yourself how festive all those beautiful ingredients look together. Plus, the smorgasbord of colorful toppings lets guests have fun building their own perfect bowl of soup.

Make it a feast: I usually serve this soup on its own—with all the toppings, it feels complete! But it’s never a bad idea to kick off a Mexican-style feast with really good chips, a couple of great guacamoles, and salsa.

Whole Roasted Side of Salmon With Citrus, Chiles, and Herbs

What makes it party-ready: During my catering career, I learned that one of the best ways to feed a crowd elegantly is with a big roasted side of salmon. It looks impressive coming out of the oven and is the perfect centerpiece to a buffet. If you’re intimidated by buying a side of salmon, don’t be! There’s nothing to it, you literally just ask the fishmonger for “a side of salmon”—I usually plan for five to six ounces per person. (You may even be able to convince them to remove the skin for you!) This one, with roasted citrus slices, is a great main course option for Easter or Mother’s Day. I’ve also served it with great success for cozy girls’ nights with a bottle of pinot noir.

Make it a feast:

Lime-y Chicken Tacos With Jicama, Avocado, and Mint

What makes it party-ready: I love a taco night-themed party. When it comes to dinner party recipes, few dishes are more festive, and this surprisingly delicious combo of chicken, jicama, avocado, and mint elevates the entire setup. For a group, I usually set out a couple of big platters on the table with all the ingredients, pass around the tortillas, and let everyone assemble their own tacos family-style.

Make it a feast: For a larger group, I like to offer a vegetarian option since there’s usually at least someone who’s not eating meat. Taco night makes it easy: you can roast some cauliflower and let guests build these delicious all-veg tacos if they so choose. I love them just as much as the chicken, so I’ll usually eat one of each.

Lamb Meatballs in Tomato Sauce With Fresh Ricotta

What makes it party-ready: A couple of years back, chef Seamus Mullen served these unbelievably delicious lamb meatballs as the centerpiece to a dinner party he hosted in Santa Monica. As someone who doesn’t cook with lamb very often, I came home feeling inspired to make this spicy lamb meatballs recipe for my next gathering. Although they feel special occasion-worthy, they couldn’t be simpler.

Make it a feast: Take a cue from Chef Mullen’s dinner party and serve with whole roasted cauliflower with salsa verde and a zesty radish, fennel, and grapefruit salad. Or, you could go more classic Italian and serve it on top of a big bowl of olive oil-tossed spaghetti.

Pita and Kebab Board

What makes it party-ready: The last thing we want to be doing at a party is worrying about lots of different meal components coming out of the oven at exactly the right time. One solution? A dinner board that contains everything guests need to build their own perfect plate. This easy and flavor-packed pita and kebab version is not only gorgeous, but it’s also perfect for satisfying a range of dietary needs. Vegetarians on board? Make them meatless. Gluten-free friends can skip the pita. The list of variations is truly endless.

Make it a feast: This board has it all: hummus, feta, roasted tomatoes, olives, sliced cucumbers, diced veggie salad, and roasted garlic. What more could you ask for?

Carne Asada Tacos

What makes it party-ready: Oaxaca has quickly become one of my favorite places to visit. With its vibrant culture and diverse food scene, there’s so much for travelers to soak up. Alongside all the beautiful, artisan-made goods I’ve sourced for Casa Zuma, I’ve also found inspiration in the many meals I’ve happily devoured. Case in point: bold and bright carne asada tacos that benefits from a mix of herbs, garlic, and plenty of spices. These are perfect for al fresco dining season.

Make it a feast:

Chicken Fire Stew

What makes it party-ready: This stew is a stealth pick for party food. It feels like the comfort food your mama might have made, but when presented with as much style as Shelley Armistead did at her beach dinner, it’s suddenly elevated to special occasion status. What makes this dish perfect for a crowd is that you can truly throw everything in the pot and walk away. An hour later, dinner is served. Shower with herbs and edible flowers—both for flavor and a gorgeous presentation.

Make it a feast: Serve alongside spring rice with greens and peas.

Grilled Shrimp Tacos with Grapefruit-Avocado Salsa

What makes it party-ready: These shrimp have been on repeat in my kitchen this summer. Their flavor is incredible and the endless amount of toppings makes it perfect for just about everyone. Trust me, this is THE grilling recipe for all of your outdoor dinner gatherings.

Make it a feast: Guacamole, or any other Mexican-inspired dip, can be served either on your taco or as a side dish with chips. I also love serving these tacos with a Mexican chopped salad to add some extra greens to the table.

Skillet Eggplant Lasagna

What makes it party-ready: One-pan dishes that serve a crowd make dinner party hosting incredibly easy. If you’ve never tried eggplant lasagna, this recipe is a great place to start. It turns a classic dish into something both stunning and healthy. You’ll never cook your lasagna the same again.

Make it a feast: With a heavier dish, I always serve something on the lighter side as my side dish or appetizer. Perhaps an easy bruschetta or a simple salad to spruce up your table and keep guests wanting more.

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Lifestyle

12 Best French Pharmacy Skincare Products, Tested and Reviewed

Published

1 day ago

May 8, 2024

Langa Chinyoka

We may receive a portion of sales if you purchase a product through a link in this article.

I don’t believe in gatekeeping. As a beauty editor, I make my living by sharing what I love with literally anyone who will listen. So, it makes sense that I’ve become the defacto recommendation-giver in my friend group. On more than one occasion, I’ve had friends call me from the aisles of Trader Joe’s or Target to ask for my beauty hot takes and essentials. And my most recent deep-dive of late? French pharmacy skincare, of course. Seriously—the products may change, but the hype never gets old.

Now that it’s pre-summer, everyone is asking for travel reccos. While I relish giving restaurant and shopping recs in my favorite cities, my friends are often surprised when I tell them to beeline to the local pharmacies. I got my tretinoin in Mexico City (do as I say, not as I do), and I buy a specific CeraVe oil cleanser every time I’m in London. But nothing can beat French pharmacy skincare. Whenever I’m in Paris, I spend more time in French pharmacies than in French bistros. Thanks to endless perusing and tips from my Parisian friends, I’ve come to know French pharmacy skincare like the back of my hand.

Featured image from our interview with Sanne Vloet.

Iskra Lawrence French pharmacy skincare.

Why are we so obsessed with French beauty?

There’s something so seductive about the idea of French girl beauty. From the minimal skincare routines to the daring red lips and sophisticated coiffs, I’m always on a mission to replicate the effortlessness of the quintessential French girl. My Parisian friends tell me that the key of French girl style is curation. They find what they love, and they stick to it rather than endlessly chasing trends. But it takes a while to cultivate those holy grails. And with so many options to choose from, how do you know what’s right for you?

Everyone is always waxing poetic about the best face mists, serums, ointments, and oils they found in Paris. More than the fancy counters at giant boutiques like Le Bon Marché or Galeries Lafayette, French girls flock to their local pharmacies to buy their favorite beauty products.

The Best French Pharmacy Skincare Products to Stock up On

Stepping into a French pharmacy is like Disneyland for the beauty-obsessed. While some of the most ubiquitous brands have made it stateside, it’s rare to see all their offerings at once. From the popular holy grails to the more obscure picks, I’ve tried more French pharmacy skincare products than I can count.

If you’re planning a trip to France or standing in the aisle of a French pharmacy as you read this, I recommend going into multiple pharmacies and walking the aisles to discover new brands and products. To help you navigate it all, I’m breaking down the best French pharmacy skincare essentials to stock up on.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall Product: Nuxe Huile Prodigieuse Multi-Purpose Dry Oil – $26 at Anthropologie
Best for Breakouts: Embryolisse 3-In-1 Secret Paste – $24.25 at Beauty Bay
Best for Oily Skin: Embryolisse Exfoliating Milk Powder – $24.25 at Beauty Bay
Best for Dry Skin: Avène Cicalfate+ Restorative Protective Cream – $12 at Avène USA
Best Face Mist: La Roche-Posay Thermal Spring Water Spray – $139 at Vanity Planet
Best Micellar Water: Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Water – $12.99 at Target
Best Over-the-Counter Retinol: A313 Retinol Pommade Vitamin A Night Moisturizer – $29.99 at Eisler’s Chemist

Pritika Swarup applying French pharmacy skincare products.

Why I Love It: If I could use one product for the rest of my life, it would be this. The end-all, be-all of French pharmacy skincare, this Nuxe body oil has earned its mainstream success. This dry oil absorbs fast on the body, seeps deep into the skin—and when applied to the hair—delivers both a shine and a sweet smell.

Insider Tip: In Paris, different sizes, scents, and variations of this Nuxe oil all line the pharmacy walls. I can’t pick a favorite so I get the original formula, plus the Shimmer and the Riche oils.

Key Ingredients: Macadamia Seed Oil, Sweet Almond Oil, Rosemary Leaf Extract

Why I Love It: Everybody everywhere is always talking about the Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentré. But don’t sleep on this multi-purpose paste. It’s described as an anti pimples, anti-shine mask, and purifying cleanser. With a kaolin clay base, it’s a detoxifying holy grail that I like to slather on my face when I feel a breakout coming and use it as both a mask and a cleanser.

Insider Tip: The paste is formulated for combination, oily skin, or acne-prone. Proceed with caution if you have highly sensitive skin.

Key Ingredients: Hydrolyzed Cicer Seed Extract, Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root Extract

Why I Love It: Embryolisse is the gift that keeps giving when it comes to imaginative products for any skin concern. Think of this gently purifying powder as their answer to Dermalogica’s Daily Microfoliant. Its base of rice, coconut, and milk powder turns into a foamy skin milk to gently exfoliate and deliver baby-soft skin.

Insider Tip: Think of this as the French girl’s version of a skin milk. Because of its silky, milky texture, it’s a great option to layer beneath other products. Yes, even if you have oily skin.

Key Ingredients: Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Fruit Extract, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Starch

Why I Love It: When my skin is dry, I stock up on every cica-based product I can find. From K-Beauty cica balms to the La Roche Posay Cicaplast Balm (another French beauty must-have), it’s one of my favorite ingredients for irritation and dryness. This daily cream restores and protects. Plus, it leverages a unique postbiotic to boost your microbiome.

Insider Tip: This cream also comes in a spray for you to take on the go.

Key Ingredients: Avène Thermal Spring Water, Copper Sulfate and Zinc Sulfate

Why I Love It: The springs of the French town La Roche-Posay are famous for their healing powers. The water is full of natural minerals—like the powerful antioxidant selenium—that make thousands flock to the healing springs every year for transformative results. While some facial sprays are just scented water, this mist is literally bottled up from the fountain of youth.

Insider Tip: Other French face mists I love: Avène Eau Thermal and Embryolisse’s anti-pollution Eau Active.

Key Ingredients: Antioxidant-Rich Spring Water (Selenium, Copper)

Why I Love It: The cornerstone of a French beauty routine is micellar water. What can’t it do? It’s a cleanser, a makeup remover, and a hydrating toner. This pH-balancing micellar water is a classic for a reason.

Insider Tip: Use it as the first step in a double cleanse for deeply-cleaned skin.

Key Ingredients: Propylene Glycol, Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract

Why I Love It: The hype is real: retinol will change your life. Particularly this retinyl palmitate ointment, with a formula that rivals most over-the-counter retinoids. If protecting and producing collagen as you age is your goal, this Vitamin A pomade delivers.

Insider Tip: Because retinol speeds up cell turnover, you’re effectively unclogging your pores with every application—great if reducing acne is your goal. And as always, apply SPF after your retinol!

Key Ingredients: Cera Microcristallina, Retinyl Palmitate, Tocopheryl Acetate, BHT

More French Pharmacy Skincare Products to Consider

While I consider the French pharmacy skincare products above the best of the best, if you’re in the mood for a shopping spree, these are more heavy-hitting favorites I love to recommend.

Biafine Emulsion Cream

Of course the French can make ointment sexy. The hottest summer skincare trend is building back your skin barrier. While barrier products abound, everyone talks about Biafine’s magic-like results. Usually only available with a prescription in the U.S., it’s a thick ointment that dermatologists often prescribe their patients for post-procedure healing. Use it on particularly dry skin or any scars for faster wound healing.

Boiron Homéoplasmine

Slugging is all the rage for a reason. It’s flooding your skin with hydrating and moisturizing ingredients to get that coveted glass skin. I slug with this French answer to Vaseline. It’s a thick occlusive that also contains healing ingredients such as calendula to soothe any irritations and wounds. Apply it to your lips before lipstick for the perfect, French girl red pout.