Beauty Fix: The best new skincare products to prep for spring

How can I diminish the appearance of my stretch marks?
Body products are following in the footsteps of skincare in many ways, incorporating more and more active ingredients into formulations for major results. Prime example: Hand Chemistry Retin-Oil ($20, handchemistry.com), which is a multivitamin-enriched dry body oil that also contains a retinoid complex to help tackle the appearance of scars, stretch marks and general dehydration. Refresher: retinoids are vitamin A derivatives that work to reverse signs of aging by assisting with cell renewal. The formula also contains vitamin C for clearer, brighter skin, as well as an algae complex to fade stretch marks.

I’m fed up with white residue from my antiperspirant ending up all over my clothing. Is there a better alternative without stickiness or residue?
Everyone has surrendered a garment or few to ever-awful antiperspirant marks, which definitely became a “know better, do better” opportunity for brands to step up their R&D game when it comes to antiperspirant technology. Solid sticks leave residue while gels take forever to dry, and aerosols would mean spraying a wildly unpleasant cold blast of air onto your skin (aside from being less than environmentally friendly). Dove decided to launch a water- and alcohol-free spray-on antiperspirant and it’s an absolute game changer. Dove Dry Spray Antiperspirant in “Beauty Finish” ($9, well.ca) doesn’t burn or sting underarms (even if you’ve just shaved), and it contains Dove’s usual ¼ moisturizer, which leaves skin hydrated even while the formula is battling sweat all day. Best of all, skin is left dry to the touch immediately after spraying – no residue, no drying time.

If I don’t wear much makeup, should I still use a primer?
Facial primers aren’t just for extending the wear of your makeup! Depending on the primer you choose, you can smooth lines, reduce the appearance of pores, brighten your skin or colour-correct undertones, among other marvels of primer formulations. One to try for flawless-looking skin (even if makeup isn’t applied over top): Rodial Instaglam Airbrush Primer ($40, at Murale), which can be considered skincare and a primer rolled into one. The formula contains hyaluronic acid to plump fine lines, as well as silicone to smooth the skin’s appearance. Silicone loathers, heads-up—this formula doesn’t have the heavy sensation of most silicone-based primers out there, making it a great option for anyone who prefers lightweight products.

I’ve always found long-wearing foundation to be suited towards oilier skin types. What can I use if I have combination skin?
Many long-wear formulations are geared towards oilier skin types because most makeup tends to slide off oily skin since the sebum breaks down the makeup. If you have combination skin, try a formula that suits an oilier T-zone and normal to dry cheeks, like Clinique Beyond Perfecting Foundation + Concealer ($34, sephora.ca). This foundation-concealer hybrid adjusts to reduce sebum and increase hydration where needed. Unlike many longwearing foundations or concealers, this formulation doesn’t set quickly, so you’re able to buff it out for a more natural look.

What sort of fragrance should I take along with me on my next trip?
Whether you’re taking a plane, train or automobile, I’d recommend sticking to something light, fresh and portable. Travel of any kind can be exhausting, and citrus scents are uplifting and bound to reenergize you, so pack a travel-friendly 1 ounce bottle of Atelier Cologne Pomélo Paradis Cologne Absolue Pure Perfume ($75, sephora.ca). The bright notes of pink pomelo, mandarin, orange blossom, mint and amber combine for a modern take on a traditional eau de cologne in a convenient travel flacon housed in a leather sleeve, ready to throw in your carry-on or purse.

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