Exfoliators, Straighteners, and Testing the Viral NuFace Device

nuFACE Mini Starter Kit

nuFACE Mini+ Petite Facial Toning Device

NuFACE Trinity + Eye and Lip Enhancer Attachment Bundle

GHD Original Styler
“GHD are ergonomic, produce even heat quickly, and shut off after 30 minutes of nonuse,” says Sky Barbarick, a Los Angeles–based hairstylist. This one heats up in just 30 seconds and is the most affordable of the GHD ilk. One thing to know before you buy GHD: All of the brand’s straighteners are fixed at 365 degrees and do not have adjustable temperature settings.

Kristin Ess 3-in-One Flat Iron - 1 1/4”
Compared with all the fancy flat irons, this one is a great value. And Target reviewers agree. It’s called a “3-in-1” iron because the iron has curved plates, so you can use it to create smooth waves, curls, and sleek, straight styles. It heats up quickly, and has a long (nine feet) cord so you can maneuver with dexterity. And don’t worry about having to rush home because you can’t remember if you shut off the flat iron — there’s an automatic shutoff.

FHI 1 1/4 inch Tourmaline Ceramic Professional Hair Styling Iron
FHI’s rounded edge allows you to easily curl or add waves without much effort. It’s almost as small as a travel flat iron, and I love that it straightens even the poofiest sections with just a single pass. But don’t just take my word for it, listen to Beyoncé (via InStyle): “I’m crazy about it! I can’t live without my flat iron!”

Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Salicylic Acid Exfoliant
A favorite of Dr. Shereene Idriss, a board-certified dermatologist, for oily and acne-prone skin, she says that it’s lightweight and absorbs fairly quickly. This is perhaps the product used most by Cut editors. With a mix of beta-hydroxy acids (a category of acids known for “de-gunking” or cleaning out pores), it keeps skin clear and bright. Salicylic acid, a.k.a. BHA, is an optimal ingredient for this skin type as it has great anti-inflammatory properties, says Dr. Idriss.

TATCHA Rice Enzyme Powder
This very gentle physical exfoliator from Tatcha comes in an easily transportable powder. Add a little water and the formula transforms into a milky lather with grains of soft Japanese rice bran. The grains are so delicate that you might wonder, Is this even working?, but the proof is in the aftermath, when your skin will feel soft and not at all tight. It’s also a favorite of Meghan Markle (she gave it to guests at her baby shower).

DERMALOGICA Daily Microfoliant
This exfoliator has a similar texture to Tatcha’s and very similar ingredients — and it also has the endorsement of Cate Blanchett, patron saint of perfect skin. Like Tatcha’s, it uses rice bran to exfoliate but adds a blend of salicylic acid (most commonly seen in acne products) and soothing, anti-inflammation ingredients like green tea and colloidal oatmeal. Because it comes in a powder, it’s great for travel.