What I Am Loving Right Now
I feel like it’s been a hot minute since I shared a roundup of all the products I find myself reaching for, so today’s the day! While a majority of the products I will share will be under the skincare umbrella, I wanted to sprinkle in a few other beauty and wellness products I am just genuinely loving! Before we get into said list, I think it’s worth mentioning that as a Derm PA and a #skinthusiast, I try A TON of skincare, so it takes a ton to make it on my holy grail list (aka these ones are the real deal). Finally, I want to preface before starting this list that my focus this time of year (as we move into warmer months) is to focus on lightweight hydration, combating hyperpigmentation, and skin friendly beauty.
So let’s get into it — here are products I’ve been using nonstop lately:
1. La Roche-Posay Mela B3 Dark Spot Serum
This is a newer addition to my routine — I started using it a few months ago and I’m still in the “watching and waiting” phase, but I’m really excited about the potential here. If you caught my podcast with Dr. Heather Woolery-Lloyd, you probably remember her saying she was amazed by the results she’s seen in her patients. So I had to try it for myself.
It’s formulated with a unique ingredient called Melasyl (exclusive to La Roche-Posay) that targets stubborn discoloration — sunspots, acne marks, melasma — all while supporting skin tone without being irritating. And because it’s non-comedogenic, dermatologist-tested, and suitable for sensitive skin, I feel confident recommending it even to my more reactive-skin patients.
2. SkinMedica HA⁵ Rejuvenating Hydrator
Let’s say it together, hydrating and moisturizing are NOT the same (and your skin needs both). This has been one of my go-to products to keep my skin hydrated. And if you want your skin looking dewy and hydrated all summer long, this is your girl too! This serum blends five forms of hyaluronic acid for that instant plumping effect.
I love that it softens the look of fine lines and adds an overall smoothness to the skin without feeling heavy. The added peptide complex and vitamin E give it an extra edge for antioxidant support, too. Obsessed yet? Just to really win you over, it also plays really well under SPF and makeup!
3. Retinaldehyde Cream Serum 0.15%
If you have heard someone say to “stop your retinoid in summer,” never listen to their skin advice again. Retinoids are meant to be year round!
I’ve been using Naturium’s Retinaldehyde for years, but this new 0.15% strength retinaldehyde serum is one I’m so impressed with. It’s effective at smoothing texture and minimizing fine lines — without being overly aggressive. I recommend easing in if you’re new to retinal, but if your skin can tolerate it, this is such a strong performer. Use code “AMYK15” for a discount!
4. Alpyn Beauty Super Peptide & Ghostberry Moisturizer
You didn’t think I was done talking about this one, right? I came across this moisturizer about a year ago and I still consider it one of my top 5 favorite moisturizers of all time (this is not an easy title to achieve)!
It’s formulated with ghostberry (a natural antioxidant), peptides (for firming), and ceramides (for barrier support). Honestly, this formula checks every box for what I want in a summer moisturizer. It feels luxurious without being greasy and always leaves my skin soft and calm.
5. TIRTIR Milk Skin Toner
Ok I am not nearly a toner girl, but I have been loving this one from TIRTIR! It looks like milk, but the formula is completely vegan and packed with soothing, hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, panthenol, and niacinamide. It also contains licorice root extract, which can have a brightening and calming impact on the skin — especially if you’re dealing with sun sensitivity or pigmentation.
Pro tip: if you want to achieve a dewy, skin-friendly beauty look, mix a few drops of this toner with your foundation or CC cream. It will give you a super glowy/glass-skin finish.
6. HyaCera Skin Supplement
If you’ve been following me for a minute, you would know that I am pretty picky when it comes to choosing supplements. So if I am recommending a supplement to you know, believe me when I say that I am not saying it lightly. Which leads me to HyaCera. HyaCera is a clinically-backed supplement that supports skin hydration and can visibly reduce crow’s feet and fine lines.
Think of it like another layer in your hydration stack — but one that works deeper. I’ve been taking it daily and loving it!
Use code “AMY25” for a discount!
7. Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Dewy Flush
This product is a newer launch and it’s quickly become a go-to in my skin friendly beauty (yes, skincare + makeup in one!!) arsenal. It’s a tinted cheek serum and gives the prettiest dewy finish. I use the shade “Watermelon Flush,” and it has quite literally saved me during the postpartum era.
I also think it’s worth mentioning that it has the best doe-foot applicator — it gives just the right amount for both cheeks — and the formula blends out so easily with fingertips. It’s not heavy or cakey at all. If you love that glazed-donut-skin vibe, you’ll be obsessed.
8. Rare Beauty Positive Light Silky Touch Highlighter
Sticking with the skin-friendly theme, I found the highlighter of my dreams. It’s a little more natural looking, so not quite as glittery shimmery as some highlighters (which I personally prefer). It’s lightweight, smooth, and gives your skin a lit-from-within look. I swipe it on the high points of my face (cheekbones, brow bone, a dab on the nose) and it catches the light beautifully.
9. Rare Beauty Brow Harmony Flexible Lifting Gel
Looking for a brow gel that lifts and holds without making your brows crunchy or stiff (hate that)? I’ve got you! This wand gives great control, and it keeps everything in place all day. On days where I have zero time to get ready, I will apply my tinted spf and this brow gel. That’s it!
10. The Stakt Mat
Okay, this isn’t beauty or skincare — but it’s 100% part of my wellness routine. I am pretty much all about at home workouts recently (mainly weightlifting with Evlo, yoga or pilates). So this 2-in-1 fitness mat (doubles as a mat) is a dream! It’s extra thick but still super lightweight.
Use code “AMYK15” for a discount!
Let’s conclude this blog by stating that supplements aren’t a magic fix, but they can be powerful tools when used strategically. The key is consistency and quality—choosing research-backed formulations and sticking with them over time. Let me know if you have any questions, or if you try any of the supplements you’re obsessed with!
**Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links and may contain products gifted in PR. This means that I may earn a small commission when you purchase via these links at no additional cost to you (thank you! It helps me keep things up and running)… As always I ONLY recommend products, goods and services that I stand behind and personally love and use