Lessons Every Girl in Her Early 20s Needs to Know - From a Late 20s Girl Turning 28
Tuesday, December 23, 2025
If I could sit down with my younger self, or with any girl in her early 20s feeling overwhelmed by life, these are the lessons I’d share.
1. Your 20s Are for Exploration, Not Perfection
College and the years after were a huge wake-up call for me. I tried different paths, experienced both entrepreneurship and corporate life, and realized that no decision is ever truly wasted. Every experience teaches you something about what you want, and what you don’t. You don’t need to have it all figured out. You just need to keep showing up and learning.
2. Friendships Will Change — and That’s Okay
Some friendships are meant to last a lifetime, and others are meant to last for a season. Letting go doesn’t mean failure; it means acceptance. There’s no need to hold onto something that served its purpose at the time it did. Growth often requires space.
3. Stop Expecting People to Love You the Way You Love Them
One of the hardest lessons I learned was that not everyone will show up the way you do. I used to be the one always checking in, asking deep questions, and keeping relationships alive, only to feel disappointed when the effort wasn’t returned.
You shouldn’t expect anything in return, but you also shouldn’t be the only one trying. If communication doesn’t lead to change, that’s an answer in itself. Having a high tolerance doesn’t mean allowing people to cross your boundaries or make you feel like you’re overreacting. Especially in new friendships, you’re allowed to speak up.
4. Relationships Are Not a Race
Just because you want to be in a relationship doesn’t mean it’s the right time, or the right person. Sometimes it’s more important to know what you don’t want than what you do. Don’t rush things because your peers already experienced them. Listen to your gut. Attraction doesn’t always mean compatibility, and it’s okay to change your mind once you get to know someone better. Never settle just because someone shows interest.
5. Trust Your Own Judgment
I wish I had stopped accepting pressure to try things or give people more chances when deep down I already knew it wouldn’t work. Self-reflection and honesty with yourself will save you so much energy. Your intuition exists for a reason, learn to trust it.
6. Success Is Not Linear
The world changes fast. One year might be financially amazing, and the next might feel unstable. That doesn’t mean you’re failing. As long as you show up and try your best, there is always a way forward. Success isn’t one big milestone, it’s made of small wins we often overlook.
7. Be Intentional With Your Money
I was always good at budgeting, but now I understand something deeper: money should support the life you want. I’d rather spend it on experiences, books, and growth than on things meant to impress others. Choose intentionally.
8. Failure Is Often Redirection
Just because you think you deserve something doesn’t mean it was meant for you. Sometimes a door closes so a better one can open. Failure isn’t the end, it’s guidance.
9. Saying No Is a Form of Self-Respect
Saying no to others is saying yes to yourself. Burnout comes and goes, but consistency is a choice. Protect your energy.
10. Your Body Is Not the Problem
Body image is something most women struggle with. It’s a work in progress, and that’s okay. Focus on small, sustainable steps that improve your overall health, physically and mentally.
11. You Don’t Need Everyone’s Approval
I stopped caring so much about other people’s opinions in my mid-20s. No one knows you better than you know yourself. Most opinions are surface-level and often reflect someone else’s emotional state. You don’t need to be liked by everyone.
12. Confidence Comes From Knowing Who You Are
Real confidence means knowing yourself and not letting others define you. It’s quiet, grounded, and deeply personal.
13. Honor the Life You Want
Women fought for the freedom to choose, and that means all choices. Wanting a family and a simple life is just as valid as wanting a career-driven one. No one gets to shame you for what fulfillment looks like to you.
14. Know Your Values and Protect Them
Your 20s can be chaotic and overwhelming. You’ll be influenced by school, family, friends, work, and society. Take time to understand your core values and stick to them. Reflect, stay curious, think critically, and don’t accept things that feel wrong just to fit in. Your conscience will guide you, if you listen.
A Birthday Reminder
If you’re in your early 20s reading this: you’re not behind. You’re not weird for choosing differently. And you’re not lost, you’re becoming.
And to my younger self: I forgive you for overthinking. And I thank you for being brave enough to start.
Happy 28 to me, and to growth, clarity, and choosing ourselves 🤍
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If I could sit down with my younger self, or with any girl in her early 20s feeling overwhelmed by life, these are the lessons I’d share.
1. Your 20s Are for Exploration, Not Perfection
College and the years after were a huge wake-up call for me. I tried different paths, experienced both entrepreneurship and corporate life, and realized that no decision is ever truly wasted. Every experience teaches you something about what you want, and what you don’t. You don’t need to have it all figured out. You just need to keep showing up and learning.
2. Friendships Will Change — and That’s Okay
Some friendships are meant to last a lifetime, and others are meant to last for a season. Letting go doesn’t mean failure; it means acceptance. There’s no need to hold onto something that served its purpose at the time it did. Growth often requires space.
3. Stop Expecting People to Love You the Way You Love Them
One of the hardest lessons I learned was that not everyone will show up the way you do. I used to be the one always checking in, asking deep questions, and keeping relationships alive, only to feel disappointed when the effort wasn’t returned.
You shouldn’t expect anything in return, but you also shouldn’t be the only one trying. If communication doesn’t lead to change, that’s an answer in itself. Having a high tolerance doesn’t mean allowing people to cross your boundaries or make you feel like you’re overreacting. Especially in new friendships, you’re allowed to speak up.
4. Relationships Are Not a Race
Just because you want to be in a relationship doesn’t mean it’s the right time, or the right person. Sometimes it’s more important to know what you don’t want than what you do. Don’t rush things because your peers already experienced them. Listen to your gut. Attraction doesn’t always mean compatibility, and it’s okay to change your mind once you get to know someone better. Never settle just because someone shows interest.
5. Trust Your Own Judgment
I wish I had stopped accepting pressure to try things or give people more chances when deep down I already knew it wouldn’t work. Self-reflection and honesty with yourself will save you so much energy. Your intuition exists for a reason, learn to trust it.
6. Success Is Not Linear
The world changes fast. One year might be financially amazing, and the next might feel unstable. That doesn’t mean you’re failing. As long as you show up and try your best, there is always a way forward. Success isn’t one big milestone, it’s made of small wins we often overlook.
7. Be Intentional With Your Money
I was always good at budgeting, but now I understand something deeper: money should support the life you want. I’d rather spend it on experiences, books, and growth than on things meant to impress others. Choose intentionally.
8. Failure Is Often Redirection
Just because you think you deserve something doesn’t mean it was meant for you. Sometimes a door closes so a better one can open. Failure isn’t the end, it’s guidance.
9. Saying No Is a Form of Self-Respect
Saying no to others is saying yes to yourself. Burnout comes and goes, but consistency is a choice. Protect your energy.
10. Your Body Is Not the Problem
Body image is something most women struggle with. It’s a work in progress, and that’s okay. Focus on small, sustainable steps that improve your overall health, physically and mentally.
11. You Don’t Need Everyone’s Approval
I stopped caring so much about other people’s opinions in my mid-20s. No one knows you better than you know yourself. Most opinions are surface-level and often reflect someone else’s emotional state. You don’t need to be liked by everyone.
12. Confidence Comes From Knowing Who You Are
Real confidence means knowing yourself and not letting others define you. It’s quiet, grounded, and deeply personal.
13. Honor the Life You Want
Women fought for the freedom to choose, and that means all choices. Wanting a family and a simple life is just as valid as wanting a career-driven one. No one gets to shame you for what fulfillment looks like to you.
14. Know Your Values and Protect Them
Your 20s can be chaotic and overwhelming. You’ll be influenced by school, family, friends, work, and society. Take time to understand your core values and stick to them. Reflect, stay curious, think critically, and don’t accept things that feel wrong just to fit in. Your conscience will guide you, if you listen.
A Birthday Reminder
If you’re in your early 20s reading this: you’re not behind. You’re not weird for choosing differently. And you’re not lost, you’re becoming.
And to my younger self: I forgive you for overthinking. And I thank you for being brave enough to start.
Happy 28 to me, and to growth, clarity, and choosing ourselves 🤍
The holiday season is one of the busiest times of the year. Between shopping, cooking, social events, and work deadlines, it’s easy to forget about yourself. That’s why building a simple at-home holiday self-care routine is so important. Taking even 30 minutes a day to pamper yourself can help you feel relaxed, refreshed, and ready to enjoy the season. Here’s an easy guide to creating your own winter relaxation routine.
The holiday season is one of the busiest times of the year. Between shopping, cooking, social events, and work deadlines, it’s easy to forget about yourself. That’s why building a simple at-home holiday self-care routine is so important. Taking even 30 minutes a day to pamper yourself can help you feel relaxed, refreshed, and ready to enjoy the season. Here’s an easy guide to creating your own winter relaxation routine.
11 Haircare Mistakes That Are Damaging Your Hair (And How to Fix Them Fast)
Friday, December 19, 2025
I Tried the Top Viral Beauty Products of the Year — Here Are the Ones That Are Actually Worth It
Wednesday, December 17, 2025
Every year, beauty lovers race to try the latest viral products, some are life-changing, others leave you wondering what all the hype was about.
In 2025, I put the most talked-about skincare and beauty favorites to the test. After months of daily use, here’s my honest take on what actually works, and what makes them worth adding to your routine.
Every year, beauty lovers race to try the latest viral products, some are life-changing, others leave you wondering what all the hype was about.
In 2025, I put the most talked-about skincare and beauty favorites to the test. After months of daily use, here’s my honest take on what actually works, and what makes them worth adding to your routine.
If you’re looking for the simplest Christmas cookie recipe, this one is for you. These cookies are buttery, tender, and absolutely delicious on their own, and the best part? You only need three basic ingredients. No mixer, no chilling overnight, and no complicated steps.
They’re perfect for last-minute baking, holiday cookie boxes, or baking with kids.
If you’re looking for the simplest Christmas cookie recipe, this one is for you. These cookies are buttery, tender, and absolutely delicious on their own, and the best part? You only need three basic ingredients. No mixer, no chilling overnight, and no complicated steps.
They’re perfect for last-minute baking, holiday cookie boxes, or baking with kids.
"My Secret Santa" Review: Is Netflix’s New Christmas Romance Movie Worth Watching?
Saturday, December 13, 2025
If you’ve spent any time in the K-beauty world, you’ve probably seen Haruharu Wonder pop up again and again, especially their Black Rice line. So when I saw their Black Rice Bakuchiol Eye Cream gaining traction, I knew I had to try it. After a few weeks of daily use, I finally feel ready to give an honest, no-fluff review of how it worked for me and whether it’s worth adding to your routine.
If you’ve spent any time in the K-beauty world, you’ve probably seen Haruharu Wonder pop up again and again, especially their Black Rice line. So when I saw their Black Rice Bakuchiol Eye Cream gaining traction, I knew I had to try it. After a few weeks of daily use, I finally feel ready to give an honest, no-fluff review of how it worked for me and whether it’s worth adding to your routine.
There’s just something magical about Christmas stockings, especially when they’re filled with tiny beauty treats that make your whole morning feel instantly brighter. If you’re shopping for cute, budget-friendly, and genuinely useful beauty gifts this year, YesStyle is basically a treasure chest. And because I know the struggle of choosing which minis are actually worth the hype, I put together a color-themed stocking stuffer guide packed with products I’ve personally tried, loved, or seen blowing up all over K-beauty corners of the internet.
Even better? You can get everything in this post on YesStyle, and save a little extra with my code SWEET07. Let’s dive into the cutest pink, blue, and green beauty gift ideas that will make any beauty lover’s stocking feel next-level special.
There’s just something magical about Christmas stockings, especially when they’re filled with tiny beauty treats that make your whole morning feel instantly brighter. If you’re shopping for cute, budget-friendly, and genuinely useful beauty gifts this year, YesStyle is basically a treasure chest. And because I know the struggle of choosing which minis are actually worth the hype, I put together a color-themed stocking stuffer guide packed with products I’ve personally tried, loved, or seen blowing up all over K-beauty corners of the internet.
Even better? You can get everything in this post on YesStyle, and save a little extra with my code SWEET07. Let’s dive into the cutest pink, blue, and green beauty gift ideas that will make any beauty lover’s stocking feel next-level special.
If your skin turns into a cranky, flaky mess the second temperatures drop, trust me, you’re not alone. Winter basically comes for everyone’s moisture barrier. But the good news? Korean skincare has mastered the art of keeping skin soft, hydrated, and glowing even in the coldest months.
Today, I’m breaking down the very best K-beauty cleansers, toners, serums, creams, and sunscreens that will help your dry winter skin chill out. These are hydrating, barrier-supporting, non-irritating staples you can rely on all season long.
Let’s get into it.
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1. Best K-Beauty Cleansers for Winter Skin
✨ COSRX – Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser
A classic for a reason. This gel cleanser keeps your skin’s pH balanced without stripping away moisture, super important when the air is already sucking hydration out of your skin. It gently removes impurities and sebum, making it perfect for morning use or as your second cleanse. Dry skin loves it because it never leaves that tight, squeaky feeling.
✨ Medicube – Zero Foam Cleanser
If your skin gets clogged or textured during winter due to heavier moisturizers, this one’s a gem. It’s a dense, velvety foam that deep cleans without being harsh. Formulated for sensitive, acne-prone, or easily congested skin, it removes impurities while still being gentle enough for daily use. Bonus: It supports the moisture barrier instead of destroying it.
✨ ROUND LAB – 1025 Dokdo Cleanser
This one is such a winter star. It has a slightly creamy, foamy texture and contains mineral-rich deep seawater from Ulleungdo. Translation? Gentle exfoliation, hydration, and balancing all in one step. If you've ever dealt with flaky patches around your nose or chin, this cleanser helps smooth them out without irritation.
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2. Hydrating Toners That Make Your Skin Feel Alive Again
✨ Haruharu Wonder – Black Rice Hyaluronic Toner (Fragrance Free)
If your skin feels tight after washing, this toner is basically a warm hug. It’s packed with fermented black rice and hyaluronic acid, hydration and antioxidants in one formula. The texture is bouncy and slightly viscous, helping your skin stay plump and moisturized for hours. Perfect for layering (or even the seven-skin method if you’re feeling fancy).
✨ TIRTIR – Milk Skin Toner (Jumbo)
This toner went mega viral for a reason. It feels like a hydrating essence-meets-toner, giving instant radiance and a dewy, milky glow. Dry skin LOVES this stuff. It softens rough patches and gives that “glass skin” finish even when it’s 5°C outside. A must if you want a luminous look under makeup.
✨ Anua – Heartleaf 77 Soothing Toner
Your barrier will thank you. This toner is all about calming inflammation, reducing redness, and adding refreshing hydration. Heartleaf excels at balancing skin without making it greasy. Great for anyone dealing with winter irritation or sensitivity, especially around the cheeks and nose.
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3. Serums That Bring Intense Hydration & Barrier Support
✨ Mixsoon – Glacial Water Hyaluronic Acid Serum
If you want hydration that actually lasts all day, this serum is your girl. It’s lightweight, refreshing, and deeply moisturizing thanks to multiple weights of hyaluronic acid. Your skin will drink this up instantly, no stickiness, no pilling, just pure hydration.
✨ By Wishtrend – Ceramide Milky Ampoule
Ceramides are essential in winter, and this ampoule is one of the creamiest, most comforting ways to get them. The milky texture feels silky and nourishing, making dry skin instantly feel soothed. If your barrier is compromised or you’re experiencing flakiness, add this into your routine ASAP.
✨ COSRX – Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence
A cult favorite, especially during winter! Snail mucin boosts hydration, supports healing, and leaves skin bouncy and smooth. It’s amazing for repairing dryness, fading irritation, and restoring plumpness. Pairs beautifully with any moisturizer or toner.
4. Winter Creams That Stay Through the Cold, Wind, & Radiator Air
✨ P.CALM – Cato Cream
This cream is lightweight but deceptively powerful. It sinks into the skin almost instantly but leaves behind a protective veil that moisturizes for hours. It’s formulated for sensitive and reactive skin, making it perfect if your winter barrier is feeling fragile. Expect smooth, calm, soothed skin.
✨ Celimax – Dual Barrier Skin Wearable Cream
If your moisture barrier has been screaming, this is your rescue cream. It contains ceramides, cholesterol, and fatty acids, the holy trinity your barrier needs. It gives that rich, cushy, “wearable” moisturized feeling without being greasy. Perfect for night routines or especially cold days.
✨ Skin1004 – Probio-Cica Cream
A true winter staple. This cream pairs probiotics with centella for barrier repair plus calming action. It has a luxurious creamy texture that melts into the skin, leaving it feeling protected and deeply nourished. If your skin gets dry AND irritated during winter, this will be your best friend.
👉 YesStyle link
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5. Sunscreens That Protect Without Drying You Out
Even in winter, sunscreen is non-negotiable. Cold weather doesn’t cancel UV damage!
✨ Beauty of Joseon – Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics
Lightweight, creamy, non-greasy, hydrating, basically everything dry skin needs. It provides a dewy finish without feeling heavy. One of the best everyday sunscreens, especially under makeup.
✨ ROUND LAB – Birch Juice Moisturizing Sunscreen
This one is a hydration bomb. The birch sap keeps your skin moist and juicy throughout the day. If heavy sunscreen textures turn you off, this one will convert you. It’s light, breathable, and great for sensitive skin.
✨ Anua – Heartleaf Silky Moisture Sun Cream
Another perfect pick for irritated or redness-prone winter skin. It has a silky-soft texture that smooths the skin and keeps moisture in while calming inflammation. Zero white cast and super comfortable.
Final Thoughts
Winter skin doesn’t stand a chance with these K-beauty staples. Whether your skin is dehydrated, irritated, or just begging for a little extra love, these products will keep your moisture barrier happy and protected until spring finally shows up.
Your skin deserves a cozy winter, too. 💙
If your skin turns into a cranky, flaky mess the second temperatures drop, trust me, you’re not alone. Winter basically comes for everyone’s moisture barrier. But the good news? Korean skincare has mastered the art of keeping skin soft, hydrated, and glowing even in the coldest months.
Today, I’m breaking down the very best K-beauty cleansers, toners, serums, creams, and sunscreens that will help your dry winter skin chill out. These are hydrating, barrier-supporting, non-irritating staples you can rely on all season long.
Let’s get into it.
1. Best K-Beauty Cleansers for Winter Skin
✨ COSRX – Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser
A classic for a reason. This gel cleanser keeps your skin’s pH balanced without stripping away moisture, super important when the air is already sucking hydration out of your skin. It gently removes impurities and sebum, making it perfect for morning use or as your second cleanse. Dry skin loves it because it never leaves that tight, squeaky feeling.
✨ Medicube – Zero Foam Cleanser
If your skin gets clogged or textured during winter due to heavier moisturizers, this one’s a gem. It’s a dense, velvety foam that deep cleans without being harsh. Formulated for sensitive, acne-prone, or easily congested skin, it removes impurities while still being gentle enough for daily use. Bonus: It supports the moisture barrier instead of destroying it.
✨ ROUND LAB – 1025 Dokdo Cleanser
This one is such a winter star. It has a slightly creamy, foamy texture and contains mineral-rich deep seawater from Ulleungdo. Translation? Gentle exfoliation, hydration, and balancing all in one step. If you've ever dealt with flaky patches around your nose or chin, this cleanser helps smooth them out without irritation.
2. Hydrating Toners That Make Your Skin Feel Alive Again
✨ Haruharu Wonder – Black Rice Hyaluronic Toner (Fragrance Free)
If your skin feels tight after washing, this toner is basically a warm hug. It’s packed with fermented black rice and hyaluronic acid, hydration and antioxidants in one formula. The texture is bouncy and slightly viscous, helping your skin stay plump and moisturized for hours. Perfect for layering (or even the seven-skin method if you’re feeling fancy).
✨ TIRTIR – Milk Skin Toner (Jumbo)
This toner went mega viral for a reason. It feels like a hydrating essence-meets-toner, giving instant radiance and a dewy, milky glow. Dry skin LOVES this stuff. It softens rough patches and gives that “glass skin” finish even when it’s 5°C outside. A must if you want a luminous look under makeup.
✨ Anua – Heartleaf 77 Soothing Toner
Your barrier will thank you. This toner is all about calming inflammation, reducing redness, and adding refreshing hydration. Heartleaf excels at balancing skin without making it greasy. Great for anyone dealing with winter irritation or sensitivity, especially around the cheeks and nose.
3. Serums That Bring Intense Hydration & Barrier Support
✨ Mixsoon – Glacial Water Hyaluronic Acid Serum
If you want hydration that actually lasts all day, this serum is your girl. It’s lightweight, refreshing, and deeply moisturizing thanks to multiple weights of hyaluronic acid. Your skin will drink this up instantly, no stickiness, no pilling, just pure hydration.
✨ By Wishtrend – Ceramide Milky Ampoule
Ceramides are essential in winter, and this ampoule is one of the creamiest, most comforting ways to get them. The milky texture feels silky and nourishing, making dry skin instantly feel soothed. If your barrier is compromised or you’re experiencing flakiness, add this into your routine ASAP.
✨ COSRX – Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence
A cult favorite, especially during winter! Snail mucin boosts hydration, supports healing, and leaves skin bouncy and smooth. It’s amazing for repairing dryness, fading irritation, and restoring plumpness. Pairs beautifully with any moisturizer or toner.
4. Winter Creams That Stay Through the Cold, Wind, & Radiator Air
✨ P.CALM – Cato Cream
This cream is lightweight but deceptively powerful. It sinks into the skin almost instantly but leaves behind a protective veil that moisturizes for hours. It’s formulated for sensitive and reactive skin, making it perfect if your winter barrier is feeling fragile. Expect smooth, calm, soothed skin.
✨ Celimax – Dual Barrier Skin Wearable Cream
If your moisture barrier has been screaming, this is your rescue cream. It contains ceramides, cholesterol, and fatty acids, the holy trinity your barrier needs. It gives that rich, cushy, “wearable” moisturized feeling without being greasy. Perfect for night routines or especially cold days.
✨ Skin1004 – Probio-Cica Cream
A true winter staple. This cream pairs probiotics with centella for barrier repair plus calming action. It has a luxurious creamy texture that melts into the skin, leaving it feeling protected and deeply nourished. If your skin gets dry AND irritated during winter, this will be your best friend.
👉 YesStyle link
5. Sunscreens That Protect Without Drying You Out
Even in winter, sunscreen is non-negotiable. Cold weather doesn’t cancel UV damage!
✨ Beauty of Joseon – Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics
Lightweight, creamy, non-greasy, hydrating, basically everything dry skin needs. It provides a dewy finish without feeling heavy. One of the best everyday sunscreens, especially under makeup.
✨ ROUND LAB – Birch Juice Moisturizing Sunscreen
This one is a hydration bomb. The birch sap keeps your skin moist and juicy throughout the day. If heavy sunscreen textures turn you off, this one will convert you. It’s light, breathable, and great for sensitive skin.
✨ Anua – Heartleaf Silky Moisture Sun Cream
Another perfect pick for irritated or redness-prone winter skin. It has a silky-soft texture that smooths the skin and keeps moisture in while calming inflammation. Zero white cast and super comfortable.
Final Thoughts
Winter skin doesn’t stand a chance with these K-beauty staples. Whether your skin is dehydrated, irritated, or just begging for a little extra love, these products will keep your moisture barrier happy and protected until spring finally shows up.
Your skin deserves a cozy winter, too. 💙
If you’ve been following my skincare journey for a while, then you already know how much I love the VT Reedle Shot line. There’s just something about that signature tingling, microneedling-like sensation that leaves my textured, combination skin feeling smoother and more refined. So naturally, when VT launched the Reti-A Reedle Shot 100, I had to try it.
As someone with sensitive, easily irritated skin, retinol products can be… complicated. Some are too strong, some leave me red and flaky, and some clog my pores rather than help. But because I had already used other serums from the Reedle Shot line, and my skin generally reacts well to them, I felt confident giving this ampoule a go.
And after using it on and off for a few months, I finally feel ready to share a full, honest review based solely on my experience.
If you’ve been following my skincare journey for a while, then you already know how much I love the VT Reedle Shot line. There’s just something about that signature tingling, microneedling-like sensation that leaves my textured, combination skin feeling smoother and more refined. So naturally, when VT launched the Reti-A Reedle Shot 100, I had to try it.
As someone with sensitive, easily irritated skin, retinol products can be… complicated. Some are too strong, some leave me red and flaky, and some clog my pores rather than help. But because I had already used other serums from the Reedle Shot line, and my skin generally reacts well to them, I felt confident giving this ampoule a go.
And after using it on and off for a few months, I finally feel ready to share a full, honest review based solely on my experience.
