40 Products That, Happily Enough, Work Even Better Than You Think They Would
A gentle LilyAna Naturals retinol cream that this reviewer (an esthetician of over 13 years) has deemed "The BEST hidden gem!!" This magical cream supports natural collagen production, combats uneven skin tone, and smooths rough texture. How, may you ask? It comes jam-packed with all the goods, including botanical hyaluronic acid, shea butter, organic green tea, organic jojoba oil, and vitamins A and E.
A bottle of TikTok-famous Cosrx Snail Mucin Power Essence, which works so effectively it's got some reviewers wondering what kind of witchcraft is in it. This mystical essence will soothe and rejuvenate your skin so quickly that it'll make you think the exact opposite of "ew" when you think of snail mucin. It can also give your skin a natural "I woke up like this" glow that has earned it over 57,000 5-star ratings!
A set of antimicrobial toothbrushes that have thin "floss" bristles, which help naturally eliminate the buildup and debris that tend to linger on other toothbrushes. The tip of each flossing bristle is as thick as a single human hair and is formulated with nano-silver, which may help kill off microbes left on the bristles. And if you have sensitive teeth, no worries — reviewers say these bristles are super soft.
A set of teeth-whitening pens — you'll see the difference almost immediately. It's painless, minty fresh, and helps whiten your teeth after years of drinking coffee, tea, wine, and basically anything that isn't water. 🙃
A pet hair remover, which picks up all your dog's (and your!) hair — zero struggle! It's a fan fave and requires no adhesives, sticky tape, or batteries to clean up after your furry family member. Seriously, this deserves ALL the rounds of appaws.
A fragrance-free CeraVe eye cream because don't you just love it when everyone points out how tired you look? This hydrates and repairs your undereye's delicate skin barrier with three essential ceramides so that you can say "see ya" to those dark circles.
An under-eye brightener to help balance out the bluish tones of under-eye shadows and dark circles. And bonus! It's infused with hyaluronic acid and shea butter to nourish your skin and give you a radiant glow. Wear it by itself or under your concealer for a more full-coverage look!
A The Saem hydrating eye stick that has a cooling formula to help de-puff the area around your eyes and reduce the appearance of dark circles so no one at the office starts asking you why you look like a Tim Burton character.
A foaming garbage disposal cleaner to effortlessly deep clean and deodorize your garbage disposal and pipes that have probably gone a little too long without your attention. 😬 It removes hidden bacteria, leaves a lemon-fresh scent, and can even help extend the life of your disposal!
A popular exfoliant foot peel — you apply the two bootie-shaped masks on your feet for an hour, wash your feet, and then, over the next five to seven days, enjoy the disgustingly satisfying experience of watching all of your dead skin fall away to reveal baby-soft feet. Reviewers swear by this for calluses and rough, cracked skin!
An Angry Orange pet odor eliminator because although your love for your pup is permanent, the odors left on your carpet *shouldn't* be. This miraculous spray has enzymes that lift that stink right off, leaving a lovely citrus scent. No wonder it's earned over 80,000 5-star ratings, with some reviewers claiming it even helped them remove the stain itself!
Essence's Lash Princess mascara because it'll effortlessly lengthen your lashes up to the skies. It gives you allll the volume WITHOUT the clumps and globs and has shocked reviewers with how full it leaves their lashes looking compared to other, more expensive brands. It's a fan fave for a reason!
An antioxidant-rich Hanalei overnight lip treatment — a magical mix with Hawaiian kukui nut oil, which is rich in essential fatty acids *and* vitamins A, C, and E to relieve dryness and restore the hydration your parched lippies deserve. It's also got agave and grapeseed oils to help keep your lips soothed and protected!
A wildly popular curl-defining foaming mousse enriched with coconut and shea oils to create soft wraps, tame frizz, and treat your hair to some intense hydration — leaving hair feeling ultra soft and nourished.
The Pink Stuff, a tub of magical cleaning paste that is bound to earn its own labeled space in your bathroom cabinet. Seriously. The way it effortlessly removes stains, grease, and grime and leaves just about any surface shiny and scratch free should be considered witchcraft.
A Sol De Janeiro Brazilian Bum Bum Cream because it has such a SCRUMPTIOUS scent, it might just make you ditch your perfume altogether. Enriched with caffeine, guarana extract, and coconut oil, this miraculous little jar of cream will help tighten *and* smooth your skin like nobody's business.
A miraculous veggie chopper with four interchangeable blades that slice and chop your fruits and veggies for you. It cuts down your food prep time by a LOT, making it a huge relief for when you have guests coming over and you didn't know making stir fry could take that long.
A cleansing oil to magically eliminate makeup residue, blackheads, and sebum while preventing pore congestion — perfect to incorporate into a double cleansing routine! It's also hypoallergenic and works wonders for sensitive, acne-prone skin.
A bottle of sulfate-free biotin shampoo infused with tea tree, jojoba, and argan oils to help with hair loss and prevent dandruff.
A hard-working toilet pumice stone that's here to save the day when it comes to deep cleaning those *extra* stubborn toilet rings, which are the bane of your existence. Just wet the stone, gently scrub, and watch as those tough stains disappear!
A set of acne patches to evict those pesky pimples that have no business invading your face. These are coated with hydrocolloid to protect and heal the blemish more effectively — you officially have no excuses for popping those pimples anymore! No picking or pinching needed. Oh, and they have over 111,000 5-star reviews!
A Tree of Life face serum set — this triple threat of retinol, vitamin C, and hyaluronic acid serum will help brighten, firm, *and* hydrate your skin for maximum radiance. Plus, it smells like green tea!
A highly rated portable car vacuum because the last road trip your group spent eating in the car wasn't the first, and it certainly won't be the last. This easily sucks away all those crumbs and makes it look like nothing ever happened. It's also compact enough to keep it in your car at all times (you know, just in case)!
A waterless Batiste dry shampoo *foam* if you just DON'T have time (or energy) for an "everything" shower. This lets you cancel out the grease and add some volume back to your locks without worrying about having to shake out the residue of your usual powder or spray dry shampoos.
A K-beauty Elizabeth Mott eye primer because it'll make the eyeshadow look you created 10 hours ago look like it's only been 10 minutes. It helps keep your eyeshadow from wearing off, smudging, or creasing, and enhances your eyeshadow's color and vibrance!
A Seoul Ceuticals Snail Repair Cream with organic green tea and vitamins that brighten dull skin and help fade discoloration. And, thanks to its high concentration of snail mucin extract, your complexion will look plumped and ✨glowy✨.
A super handy luggage scale — once you have it, you'll never travel without it. Especially if you're going on a longer trip, and you know your luggage will be much heavier on the way back! This lets you know how much it weighs so that you don't have to worry about awkwardly stopping in the middle of a busy airport to re-distribute weight. Plus, reviewers rave about how accurate it is!
Easy-to-use retainer cleaner tablets that help dissipate your night guard's...uh...~unpleasant~ smell/taste. Just pop one of these in a glass of water to give your retainers, Invisalign, etc., a refreshing soak. Your mouth will thank you!
A pack of clinical-strength SweatBlock wipes to help stop hyperhidrosis, nervous sweating, and hormonal sweating from ruining a good day. Give your pits a swipe of this before bed, wash in the morning, and enjoy going about your activities free of sweat (and sweat stains!).
A pack of dishwasher cleaning tablets you'll appreciate because they power away the limescale and mineral buildup you can't see in your dishwasher, so you can restore it to its squeaky-clean state and have one less thing on your plate. (Get it?)
A TikTok-famous Bissell multipurpose carpet and upholstery cleaner, which is likely to become your BFF when it comes to tackling the toughest stains in your home. This little machine's strong spray and suction can easily remove spots, stains, and odors. Use it in your car too — it's compact and portable!
A weekly Wet & Forget shower cleaner to rid your shower of soap scum, grime, and body oils without all the laborious scrubbing. It also removes stains from non-porous surfaces and leaves behind a soft, delightful vanilla scent. Just spray it on, let it sit overnight, rinse, and you're all set!
A beloved nourishing cream to assist fragile nails and help them avoid splitting, chipping, peeling, and cracking. They'll be stronger in no time — and they'll smell like coconuts.
A bottle of Fanola "No Yellow" purple shampoo — you already spent major money to acquire that beautiful blonde look, so why would you let unwanted yellow tones get in the way? This'll cancel out the brassiness and help you keep it looking as good as the hair inspo on your Pinterest board before your next touch-up appointment.
A descaling solution for an effective way to finally remove the mineral buildup and limescale from your coffee machine or espresso maker. It'll help extend the life of your machine and improve the taste of your coffee.
A skin spatula that'll really and truly give you that feeling of ~clean skin~. This uses high-frequency vibrations to gently remove gunk and impurities from pores — not only will you feel refreshed, but it'll create the perfect canvas for your expensive skincare products to *actually* absorb.
A paraben-free self-tanner with a dreamy mousse formula that glides over your skin smoothly, ensuring an even application without those pesky streaks. In just one hour, you'll be glowing like you just got back from an exotic, tropical getaway — and you didn't even have to step a foot outside.
A stainless-steel tongue scraper because, trust me, your tongue has more gunk on it than you think. This useful tool lets you scrape it allll off and instantly freshens up your breath. It works so well, one reviewer even says they can now taste specific flavors they've never detected before!
A stainless-steel water bottle that does its job so well, I dare say it'll be the first one *not* to be popular just because it's trendy! It actually keeps your drink cold for 24 hours and features a carry loop for easy transport. But what's so unique about it? Well, it comes with a double-spout built-in straw (a smaller opening for sipping and a large one for swigging), AND it allows you to cover the straw when you're not drinking thanks to the leak-proof push button opening!
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Yahoo
5 hours ago
- Yahoo
A doctor explains what people should know about the ‘cortisol cocktail' that's gone viral on TikTok
(CNN) — If you've spent time on TikTok or Instagram lately, chances are the 'cortisol cocktail' trending as the latest wellness hack has appeared in your feed. This colorful, nonalcoholic drink typically contains a mix of coconut water, citrus juice and certain salts. Also called an 'adrenal cocktail,' it has amassed millions of views, with influencers claiming it can lower stress hormones, boost energy and balance your body's adrenal function. Almost half of Americans (49%) report frequent bouts of stress, and the number of people in the United States who are feeling stressed has been rising for the past two decades, according to a 2024 Gallup survey. In these uncertain times, a stress-relieving tonic feels just right as a soothing balm, but does it actually live up to the health claims? What is cortisol and its relationship to stress? What nutrients are in these drinks and how are they purported to influence cortisol? Do they work? Who should be wary of trying this concoction? To guide us through these questions, I spoke with CNN wellness expert Dr. Leana Wen. Wen is an emergency physician and adjunct associate professor at George Washington University. She previously was Baltimore's health commissioner. CNN: What is cortisol and its relationship to stress? Dr. Leana Wen: Cortisol is a steroid hormone produced by the adrenal glands, which are organs located above the kidneys. The hormone plays a vital role in many bodily functions, including regulating metabolism, blood sugar, blood pressure, sleep-wake cycles and immune responses. Cortisol is sometimes called the 'stress hormone' because its levels naturally rise when our bodies perceive a threat or stressful situation. This reaction is part of the body's 'fight-or-flight' response, helping people stay alert and react quickly when needed. Those temporary increases in cortisol are a helpful evolutionary adaptation. Problems can arise when cortisol levels stay elevated for prolonged periods of time, which can happen when someone is under chronic stress. Persistently elevated cortisol is linked to problems such as poor sleep, anxiety, high blood pressure and even weakened immunity. There are a number of medical conditions that can lead to abnormally high or low cortisol levels. Taking high doses of steroid medications or adrenal gland tumors are examples of conditions that can cause excess cortisol. Addison's disease, or primary adrenal insufficiency, is when the adrenal gland stops its usual function. This condition, and problems with the pituitary gland in the brain, could result in low cortisol levels. CNN: What is in these 'cortisol cocktail' drinks, and how are they purported to influence cortisol? Wen: Recipes vary, but they tend to have a combination of coconut water, juice (usually orange or some other citrus fruit) and some salts (commonly sea salt and/or magnesium). Sparkling water is often added to taste. Contrary to what the name may suggest, it typically does not contain any alcohol. Each of the primary ingredients is supposed to play a role in supporting adrenal function and lowering stress. Coconut water is high in potassium, which helps maintain proper fluid and electrolyte balance. Citrus juice offers vitamin C, which plays a role in adrenal gland function. Salt and magnesium are supposed to replenish minerals depleted by stress. Moreover, some researchers believe that magnesium itself may help reduce feelings of anxiety or stress. Because of this, some versions of the cortisol cocktail include magnesium powder and/or cream of tartar, which has a high concentration of magnesium along with potassium and other salts. CNN: Is there evidence that this drink actually lowers cortisol and reduces stress? Wen: There is no scientific evidence that this drink has the effects it purports. While it's true that nutrients such as potassium, vitamin C and magnesium are important for healthy adrenal function, they are typically obtained in adequate amounts through a balanced diet. Bananas are the classic food high in potassium, but many others are packed with this mineral, too, such as raisins, apricots and tuna. Vitamin C can be found in citrus fruits, strawberries and peppers. And magnesium is also in many foods, including beans, peanut butter and leafy green vegetables. True deficiencies in these nutrients can cause health problems, but such deficiencies are uncommon in otherwise healthy individuals. More importantly, there is no evidence that consuming extra amounts beyond what the body needs will provide additional benefits or that it will meaningfully lower cortisol levels. CNN: What about the claim that the drink can treat a condition that influencers call 'adrenal fatigue'? Wen: The claim that some influencers have promoted on social media is that there is a condition of 'adrenal fatigue' in which stress is overwhelming adrenal glands and people end up feeling tired, anxious and unable to cope with daily life. However, the symptoms could stem from a variety of causes, including poor sleep, mental health conditions, and undiagnosed diseases such as anemia, hypothyroidism and diabetes. Importantly, there is no recognized medical diagnosis of adrenal fatigue. Outside of cases in which there are specific diseases causing adrenal insufficiency, there is no evidence that somehow the adrenal glands get overwhelmed and lose their ability to function. The symptoms often attributed to adrenal fatigue are real, but they are better explained by other, well‑studied causes. One risk I see is that people might rely on this so-called remedy instead of seeking medical evaluation for the real issues behind their fatigue or stress. CNN: What about all the people on the internet who claim that they have had positive health outcomes as a result of this drink? Wen: It may be that some individuals were not getting enough fluids or electrolytes before, and the additional hydration from the drink helped them feel more energized or clearheaded. There is also the placebo effect to consider: When people expect a certain treatment to work, they may genuinely feel better simply because they believe they are doing something beneficial for their health. The ritual of making and drinking this drink could itself reinforce this sense of control and care, which can have real psychological benefits even if the drink's ingredients have no direct impact on cortisol. CNN: Who should be wary of trying this so-called tonic? Wen: People who should be cautious include individuals with chronic medical conditions such as kidney disease, heart disease and diabetes. Certain individuals with kidney disease need to be especially wary of food containing high amounts of potassium. Those with heart failure may be advised to restrict their fluid intake. The sugar in fruit juice may also be problematic for some people with diabetes. Individuals interested in this drink should check with their doctor before adding this or any influencer-promoted wellness product to their diet. They should ask if any of their medications might interact with the drink's ingredients. And if they are experiencing symptoms — such as fatigue, anxiety or trouble sleeping — that prompted them to try this cocktail, they should discuss these concerns with their doctor to determine whether further evaluation is needed. Get inspired by a weekly roundup on living well, made simple. Sign up for CNN's Life, But Better newsletter for information and tools designed to improve your well-being.
New York Post
6 hours ago
- New York Post
I did a parasite cleanse with herbs you haven't heard of — what TikTok won't tell you
New York Post may be compensated and/or receive an affiliate commission if you click or buy through our links. Featured pricing is subject to change. When was the last time you dewormed yourself? 'When we did my seven-year-old's cleanse, day eleven was the day we saw the worms,' shared Nicole Marso, a creator who identifies herself as a 'Holistic Mama' on her TikTok page. As a health and wellness writer, it's not unusual for me to come across some unconventional health protocols. But when my algorithm started feeding me ads from people talking about taking herbal parasite cleanses and passing worms the length of a pencil, I couldn't just keep scrolling. As it turns out, parasitic infections are far more common than most people think, and in some countries, 'deworming' is considered a typical seasonal wellness routine. Symptoms are vague, including unexplained constipation, diarrhea, or bloating, which can easily be mistaken for other digestive issues. Fatigue is also common, as parasites can deplete essential nutrients. According to the World Health Organization, approximately 25% of the world's population has an infection related to an intestinal parasite. Cases are even higher in tropical and subtropical regions with limited access to clean water and sanitation. Certain cultures have been using herbs to expel parasites for centuries. In traditional Chinese medicine, pumpkin seeds, betel nuts, and sweet wormwood were used to treat a range of conditions, including tapeworm disease and malaria parasites. Today, modern parasite cleanses are gaining attention on social media, as people turn to data that suggests infections are closer to home than some might realize. The CDC estimates that 60 million people in the United States may carry some form of parasitic infection, often without knowing it. Even simple everyday activities can result in parasite exposure — consuming undercooked meat, drinking contaminated water, or swimming in lakes or rivers. Parasite cleanses are not for everyone. The FDA has not approved or evaluated parasite cleanse products and has also issued some warnings over labeling, safety, and effectiveness of certain cleanse kits. Some doctors have warned that parasite cleanses could also eliminate 'good bacteria' in the gut, and certain herbal and dietary supplements have also been linked to HDS-induced liver injury. As with any supplement, people need to consult their physicians before starting a detox protocol. Curious, skeptical, and just a little bit grossed out, I decided to (gently) dive into the world of parasite cleanses — first speaking with medical experts, and then trying the Touchstone Essentials' Para-Shield Herbal Cleanse myself. While a range of DIY-cleanses circulate on social media — including everything from herbal teas to ionic footbaths — there are also some scientifically-tested herbal remedies on the market. Touchstone Essentials offers Para-Shield, an herbal blend that is formulated to support the body's natural cleansing efforts and create an inhospitable environment for unwelcome visitors. Para-Shield incorporates Black Walnut Hull, Clove, and Wormwood, which are said to support the body's protective functions against microorganisms naturally. For further immune support, the blend also delivers essential antioxidants from Clove, Barberry Root, Ginger Root, and Yuzu. 'With a healthy gut, the body can better defend itself against external threats,' explained Eddie Stone, the founder and CEO of Touchstone Essentials, a leading e-commerce detox and wellness brand that offers natural wellness solutions, including cleanse supplements. Stone believes that natural parasite cleanses can effectively target a wide range of harmful organisms, while also restoring balance in the digestive system. 'Supporting the gut lining — the intestinal barrier — can ease digestion, reduce inflammation, and help the body return to a more balanced state overall,' Stone explained. Touchstone Essentials Para-Shield Review We tested Para-Shield, an all-natural supplement rooted in hundreds of years of research and ancient medicine. The tincture, which comes in a 21-day supply, is formulated to help the body eliminate gut intruders and support digestive health for adults and children. How it Works According to Touchstone Essentials' website, Para-Shield offers a powerful yet gentle blend of organic herbs to help create an inhospitable environment for unwanted organisms in the body. For someone new to parasite cleanses (myself included), that might leave more questions than answers. For adults, the directions are simple. Take 10 drops twice a day for 3 weeks. For optimal results, it is recommended to take it on an empty stomach. After the first three weeks, pause for one week, then repeat as needed. Para-Shield is also a suitable parasite cleanse for kids. Children ages 3 and up can take 5 drops per serving. And no, according to Stone, you don't need to have any symptoms of parasite exposure to take Para-Shield and reap the benefits. As someone who hasn't experienced any major issues indicative of parasite exposure (think nausea, abdominal pain, insomnia, etc.), I'm still safe to take Para-Shield for gut support and long-term health. 'Para-Shield is an herbal gut cleanse with a specialized formula that helps the body defend against microorganisms, supports gut detox, and soothes digestion,' Stone explained, adding that Para-Shield is a more gentle alternative to harsh pharmaceutical cleanses, including enemas and colonics. Black Walnut Hull, a key ingredient in Para-Shield, has been studied for its ability to kill unwanted microorganisms. Wormwood has been traditionally used for digestive issues, and Barberry Root, a natural antioxidant, is believed to help with cleansing and promote a healthy gut lining. Other ingredients like Ginger and Yuzu are added to help soothe the digestive system. While cleansing with Para-Shield, Stone recommends drinking an ample amount of water to help the body flush out toxins. It's also beneficial to eat a clean, nutrient-rich diet full of fiber, which works alongside the herbal cleanse to detox the digestive system. While each person is different, Stone suggests a minimum of three months for a thorough cleanse. Possible Benefits Removal of unwanted parasites Restoration of the gut microbiome Liver and kidney support Increased energy Reduced bloating Improved nutrient absorption Reduced stress Better sleep Clearer, smoother skin When I began taking Para-Shield, my expectations were not very high. I test supplements for a living, and it's rare for me to experience anything notable worth writing about. With previous gut health supplements and probiotics, I've experienced a little less bloating, a bit more energy, and maybe a few fewer skin breakouts. But, nothing mind-blowing. After sifting through Para-Shield reviews, my hopes got a little higher. Most supplements require a few months of consistent use to achieve the benefits. Para-Shield users have reported symptom alleviation in the first few weeks of use, including improvements in bloating, constipation, gut discomfort, as well as skin irritation. 'After cleansing, some people report healthy and regular digestion, reduced hunger and cravings, and improved energy levels,' Stone explained. 'Most people report feeling less bloating, a soothed stomach, and more regular bowel movements.' All of this sounds great on paper, but consistency is key. Fortunately, it's very easy to take Para-Shield, and the flavor is not bad at all (think sweet-and-light ginger-clove-yuzu). My friend who tasted it compared it to a mocktail. I plopped the drops directly into my mouth using the provided dispenser, but the tincture also mixes easily in water. After the first week of my cleanse, I felt pretty much the same overall, aside from a few more trips to the restroom. I didn't notice any dramatic physical changes, but there were no concerning side effects either — just better regularity. The only mildly inconvenient part was remembering to take it twice a day, especially on an empty stomach. But by week 3, I wanted to take it even more (yes, you can double the serving size for a more intensive cleanse). It's not easy to transcribe into words, but my digestive system felt like it had taken a three-week-long retreat and could suddenly relax. I was full after all my meals, less bloated, and more relaxed. My sugar cravings? Nearly gone. The number on the scale? Down, a tad. The biggest change? My energy. I had so much more that, for once, I looked forward to working out instead of dreading it. It's hard to say whether the supplement alone was responsible for these improvements, or if my fiber-rich diet played a role too. Either way, I was genuinely pleased with the results. And for the record, no, I didn't see any worms. Side-effects Here's where it can get a little scary. While Para-Shield does not report any expected side effects, individual responses may vary. In general, cleanses and detoxes are associated with a variety of possible short-term and long-term risks that you should be aware of. Take the aforementioned trips to the bathroom — very common. If you have somewhere to be, don't count on taking the tincture and getting there in time. Beyond increased bowel movements, it's also possible to experience vitamin or nutrient deficiencies, diarrhea (which can lead to dehydration), and other GI issues, per the Cleveland Clinic. According to Touchstone Essentials, 'die-off' symptoms can also occur as unwanted microorganisms are expelled from the body. The release of endotoxins can trigger a temporary reaction of discomfort in the digestive system, causing short-term fatigue. The symptoms should pass quickly, but users are instructed to stop the cleanse if they experience any more pronounced symptoms. Fortunately, I didn't experience any major side effects while taking Para-Shield for 21 days. No digestive discomfort, no headaches, no bloating, no lethargy, etc. I did take some precautions; I drank what felt like gallons of water a day to curb dehydration and tried my best to stick to a plant-based diet, incorporating lots of colorful fruits and veggies and skipping most processed foods (besides a slice of pizza or two). Despite my generally positive detox experience, I'm still cautious when recommending any cleanse program. Just because it's right for someone does not mean it's right for you. Para-Shield is not intended for pregnant or breastfeeding women due to the cleansing herbs. Some ingredients could also interact with other medications, which is why it's very important to consult your physician before use. Pros and Cons Pros: Para-Shield incorporates clinically studied, time-tested herbal ingredients that support detoxification and gut health at the same time The customer reviews lean very positive on taste, tolerance, and symptom improvement, with benefits being noticed in the first few weeks of use Para-Shield is vegan, non-GMO, gluten-free, and free from synthetic additives and fillers Cons: Para-Shield is not suitable for pregnant women, and it's possible that it could cause detox symptoms and interfere with other medications (always consult a physician before use) Requires consistent use for best results, and adults must take ten drops twice a day (preferably on an empty stomach) Final Thoughts My TikTok #foryoupage is nothing short of wild, and I'm no stranger to some woo-woo remedies. I've covered everything from testosterone treatment and heavy metal detoxes to anti-aging supplements that tout cellular repair. Very few protocols I've tested firsthand have delivered identifiable benefits. A detox works a little differently since your body is actively flushing out unwanted substances. It's often easier to tell when it's doing its job, because that process usually leads to faster, more frequent digestion (nature calls) as well as an overall sense of lightness. Temporarily, it may show on the scale, too. However, that might not translate to long-term benefits. As someone who tried a parasite cleanse without an awareness of having parasites, I was generally very impressed with the results. Sure, it's not the most convenient routine to take ten drops twice a day, but after noticing less bloating, fewer cravings, and more energy, I thought it was well worth it. For just $49, I think it's more than a reasonable investment to make in your overall health. How We Tested In order to evaluate the Touchstone Essentials Para-Shield herbal cleanse, I followed a structured 21-day protocol, mirroring the instructions on the website and the back of the bottle. Before, during, and after testing, I considered ease of use, side effects, internal and external benefits, and overall value. I also consulted Eddie Stone, the founder and CEO of Touchstone Essentials, for answers to frequently asked questions about parasite cleanses. Ease of use: A cleanse protocol should be simple for any person to follow and integrate into their daily routine. I considered the required serving size (10 drops) as well as the frequency (twice a day) for 21 days, to make note of how easy it was to stick with the detox program. It is also recommended to take Para-Shield on an empty stomach, so users must consider planning their meals accordingly. A cleanse protocol should be simple for any person to follow and integrate into their daily routine. I considered the required serving size (10 drops) as well as the frequency (twice a day) for 21 days, to make note of how easy it was to stick with the detox program. It is also recommended to take Para-Shield on an empty stomach, so users must consider planning their meals accordingly. Side effects: It's important to consider that parasite cleanses can be accompanied by a range of potential side effects, including dehydration, headaches, frequent bowel movements, and reduced energy associated with 'die-off' symptoms, as well as other potential GI tract issues. I monitored any symptoms closely, keeping a journal, logging any adverse physical or mental side effects. It's important to consider that parasite cleanses can be accompanied by a range of potential side effects, including dehydration, headaches, frequent bowel movements, and reduced energy associated with 'die-off' symptoms, as well as other potential GI tract issues. I monitored any symptoms closely, keeping a journal, logging any adverse physical or mental side effects. Benefits: The goal of a parasite cleanse is to eliminate parasites and alleviate symptoms of parasite exposure, which can range from diarrhea and abdominal pain to bloating and nausea. While taking Para-Shield, I tracked any improvements in digestion, energy, skin tone, and noted whether I was craving any certain foods, as well as how 'full' I felt after meals. The goal of a parasite cleanse is to eliminate parasites and alleviate symptoms of parasite exposure, which can range from diarrhea and abdominal pain to bloating and nausea. While taking Para-Shield, I tracked any improvements in digestion, energy, skin tone, and noted whether I was craving any certain foods, as well as how 'full' I felt after meals. Overall Value: At $49.00 a bottle for a 21-day supply, I evaluated the cost, safety, and effectiveness of the herbs used in Para-Shield for parasite removal and gut health support. I considered the requirements of upping water intake and the recommended dietary changes to evaluate the ease of Para-Shield parasite cleanse, while comparing it to other supplements and detox protocols I've tested. This article was written by Miska Salemann, New York Post Commerce Writer/Reporter. As a health-forward member of Gen Z, Miska seeks out experts to weigh in on the benefits, safety and designs of both trending and tried-and-true fitness equipment, workout clothing, dietary supplements and more. Taking matters into her own hands, Miska intrepidly tests wellness products, ranging from Bryan Johnson's Blueprint Longevity Mix to home gym elliptical machines to Jennifer Aniston's favorite workout platform – often with her adorable one-year old daughter by her side. Before joining The Post, Miska covered lifestyle and consumer topics for the U.S. Sun and The Cannon Beach Gazette.
New York Post
6 hours ago
- New York Post
Introducing Skincare+ on Amazon: Shop derm-approved brands in one place
New York Post may be compensated and/or receive an affiliate commission if you click or buy through our links. Featured pricing is subject to change. I've been knee-deep in skincare for years now: testing beauty products, digging into ingredient lists like I'm studying for finals and talking with dermatologists any chance I get. It started as curiosity and turned into a full-on obsession. I've tried the buzzy stuff, the clinical stuff and everything in between. And after all that, I can confidently say: finding the right skincare routine takes work. So, when I stumbled across Amazon's new Skincare+ feature, I was honestly impressed. It actually makes things easier — and smarter — for anyone trying to figure out what works for their face. Let me break it down: Skincare+ is kind of like Amazon's skincare brainchild. It's part quiz, part personalized shop and part dermatologist-approved product lineup. You answer a few quick questions about your skin: the breakdown of your skin type, what you're dealing with (acne, dryness, sensitivity, whatever) and what you want from your routine. Then, Amazon gives you customized suggestions that aren't just based on what's trending, but what *actually* makes sense for your skin. Advertisement It's a small thing, but honestly? That quiz is gold. I've spent hours over the years scrolling through skincare Reddit, beauty blogs, YouTube videos and ingredient masterclasses trying to figure out what to use next. This takes, like, two minutes and doesn't feel like a gimmick. It points you toward products from brands that derms actually recommend (think: CeraVe, La Roche-Posay, Bioderma and more). Not influencer picks with sparkly packaging. Actual solid skincare. Here's a breakdown of what Skincare+ recommended for my combination, sensitive and fair skin — focusing on reducing pore size and upping hydration levels: I've tried most of these products and I can attest that these recommendations are certainly expert-driven, tested and effective for my skin concerns. I've raved about the medicube Pore Pads (seriously, it's a Korean beauty essential you need), and have used the CeraVe cleanser more times than I can count. Plus, you can't beat a good exfoliant in your routine, especially when brands Anua and The Ordinary are tossed into the mix. And let's talk about that Derma Store. This part of the Skincare+ setup is super curated, full of products that dermatologists actually back — not only the drugstore basics (though those are great), but also science-forward picks from brands like ISDIN, RoC and The Ordinary. You can tell it's built for people who want results without needing to decode a 15-step routine or get a degree in cosmetic chemistry. Some of the questions the Skincare+ quiz asked, straight from the Amazon app. Amazon Better yet, you'll also have access to Amazon One Medical healthcare professionals. Consider it your convenient FaceTime call with your derm. What I really appreciate as someone who's tried so many products is how much time this whole setup saves. I used to spend days comparing formulas and reading every single review like my life depended on it. With Skincare+, it feels like you've got your own mini skin consultant on standby, but without the pressure or the price tag of an in-person visit. One thing I've learned from dermatologists is that 'personalized' isn't just a buzzword; it actually matters. Your skin's needs change based on your environment, your age, even your stress levels. What's cool about this Amazon tool is that it doesn't just lump you into 'dry' or 'oily' skin categories. It asks real questions, gives targeted recommendations and helps you build a routine that actually makes sense. It's not trying to sell you ten serums you'll never use. Now, full transparency: I still double-check everything. I patch test. I read the fine print on ingredients. But nine times out of ten, the stuff Skincare+ recommends matches what I'd pick out after a full-on chat with a derm. And if you're someone who's just starting your skincare journey? This is an amazing launchpad. You won't waste your money or your face. There's also peace of mind in knowing the products are legit. Amazon's had a bit of a rep in the past for third-party sellers, but the Skincare+ and Derma Store setup directs you to official listings. So you're way less likely to accidentally buy some sketchy knockoff of your favorite SPF. For me, this whole Skincare+ thing is the kind of innovation I wish had existed when I was first starting out. It doesn't replace dermatologists or your own research, but it bridges the gap for people who want smarter skincare without the hassle. And even if you are a seasoned beauty nerd, it still saves time and helps you discover new stuff without the stress. At the end of the day, skincare should feel like self-care — not a second job. Skincare+ makes it feel a little easier, a little more personalized and a lot more doable. Whether you're dealing with breakouts, sensitivity, aging, or just overwhelmed by options, this tool gets it. And for me? That's the kind of beauty innovation that actually sticks. This article was written by Victoria Giardina, New York Post Commerce Journalist & Content Strategist, who has spent countless hours researching, testing hundreds of products and comparing the latest makeup, skincare, hair and beauty items and trends to determine what's truly worth your hard-earned cash. She evaluates formulas, textures, ingredients and more, in addition to consulting medical and industry experts. Some of Victoria's latest conquests include testing the best vitamin C serums on the market, and a rinse-and-repeat review of the best shampoos of 2025. Victoria, who received a beauty industry essentials certification from the Fashion Institute of Technology, has been creating shopping guides for the New York Post since 2021 and previously held positions at Insider Reviews and CNN Underscored.
