Make a Run for It: Are ProForm Treadmills Worth It?

Thinking about adding a treadmill to your home gym setup? ProForm treadmills are probably on your list of options — after all, they’re high tech and well-liked by most buyers.

A treadmill is a big investment any way you slice it — but luckily, ProForm treadmills are considered a pretty sweet value for the price. We put together this guide to help you make the best decision for your budget and running needs.

A quick look at ProForm treadmills: What’s good and what’s not so good?

Pros

• Features. There are plenty of fun features to consider when searching for your perfect ProForm, including large screen sizes like the Pro 9000’s 22-inch (in.) screen, built-in fans, high speeds, and incline capabilities. 
• Affordability. ProForm treadmills are available at a variety of price points, from the budget-friendly City L6 to the much pricier Pro 9000. There’s something for every budget! Bonus: ProForm treadmills in general are usually more affordable than other brands. 
• iFit. All ProForm treadmills are compatible with iFit, a subscription service that offers both live and on-demand interactive fitness sessions. 
• Easy to store. Each model folds up for easy storage when you’re not using it. 

Cons

• Limited features. Some models have more special features than others. Additions like screens, built-in fans, and Bluetooth capabilities are not available on every ProForm. 
• Screen size. Screen size is significantly smaller in all models below the Pro 9000 (and the City L6 doesn’t have a screen at all).
• Weight, speed, and incline differences. While the Pro and Carbon Series each offer a variety of speed and incline options, as well as a max weight capacity of 300 pounds (lbs.), the City L6 offers a lower max speed, no incline capabilities, and a lower weight capacity of 250 lbs.

Dissecting the hype: Is a ProForm treadmill worth it?

ProForm is known for its top-of-the-line treadmills with ultra-sturdy motors and cool features. Many of the machines have Bluetooth speakers and color touch screens you can use to access app-based workouts, including iFit.

iFit

iFit is the brand’s interactive personal training app that features live and on-demand fitness classes and workout sessions. A subscription for unlimited use costs $39/month.

The 16,000+ workouts are led by top trainers and take place in thousands of different destinations, so you can (virtually) run almost anywhere. If you’ve been doing the same loop around your neighborhood for the last year (or just really haven’t left your apartment), it’s a pretty enticing feature.

Plus, the ability to switch things up and progress through harder runs just might be the ticket to staying motivated for the long haul.

iFit also syncs with some of the treadmills to automatically adjust your speed, incline, and resistance to match your class instructor (but you can override this setting if you wanna do your own thing).

If you would rather not take tread classes, you can opt out of a membership and use your treadmill on your own.

Value

ProForm treadmills are known for their value. They strike the right balance between features and price, which makes the brand a super-attractive option for basically anyone.

Even better, ProForm has a bunch of different models at a wide range of price points, making it easier to find the treadmill that’s best for you. 

While the more affordable models have fewer special features than the higher-end ones, they still offer a great workout on a quality piece of equipment.

Let’s dig in: ProForm treadmill details

ProForm Pro Series

These are basically the gold standard of what a treadmill should be in 2022. Both of ProForm’s Pro Series treadmills offer top-of-the-line features.

Here’s what they deliver

• Tread belt. Both are 20 x 60 in. — aka lots of space to move!
• iFit capacity. Both treadmills are set up to work with iFit, and both come with a 30-day family membership to the app.
• Speed. You can run up to 12 miles per hour (mph) on each.
• Incline. Each treadmill has an incline capacity of –3 to 12 percent (few other treadmills can mimic running downhill).
• Foldable. Both can fold up super easily.
• Features. Both feature a fan to keep you comfy AF and dual Bluetooth speakers.

So what’s the diff between these two?

The Pro 9000 costs $300 more than the 2000, which buys you a bigger touch screen and a higher motor capacity. The two machines have the same weight capacity and speed/incline range, so a higher motor capacity is likely meant to keep it running with heavier use.

That said, the Pro 2000’s motor capacity still beats what you’d get from most other treadmills. So unless you’re an elite athlete (for real, not just in your mind), it’ll likely suit your needs just fine. 

	ProForm 2000	ProForm 9000
Price	$1,499	$1,799
Motor	3.25 continuous horsepower (CHP)	3.6 CHP
Smart HD touch screen	10 in.	22 in.

Shop Pro Series

ProForm Carbon Series

Don’t need the mack daddiest of treadmills? ProForm’s Carbon treadmills don’t boast quite as many jaw-dropping specs, so they’re less expensive. But they still deliver on performance and offer enough extras to give you a fun workout experience.

The Carbon Series treadmills don’t have the same speed or incline capacity as the Pro Series, and their incline doesn’t go downhill. Their tread belts are a little shorter, so they might not feel as roomy for tall runners or those with very long strides.

Their motors are a little less powerful, too, but still well within the realm of solid for a home treadmill.

Here’s what they deliver

• Tread belt. Both are 20 x 55 in. — still roomy but not ginormous.
• iFit capacity. Both treadmills are set up to work with iFit, and both come with a 30-day family membership to the app.
• Speed. You can run up to 10 mph on each.
• Incline. Each treadmill has an incline capacity of 0 to 10 percent.
• Foldable. Both can fold up super easily.
• Features. Both feature a fan and dual Bluetooth speakers.

As with the Pro series, the only differences between these two are price, motor capacity, and touch-screen size.

	Carbon T7	Carbon T10
Price	$999	$1,403
Motor	2.6 CHP	2.75 CHP
Smart HD touch screen	7 in.	10 in.

Shop Carbon Series

ProForm City Series

The City L6 is ProForm’s entry-level treadmill. A fold-up model made for smaller spaces, it’s designed to do the basics without the bling and might not feel quite as sturdy or powerful as the brand’s pricier offerings.

Here’s what it delivers

• Price. At $699, it’s more wallet-friendly than the other models.
• Motor. With 1.6 CHP, it’s not the strongest guy around, but it’ll get the job done for running at slower speeds.
• Tread belt. It’s 17.5 x 45 in. — compact for small spaces!
• iFit capacity. It’s set up to work with iFit and comes with a 30-day family membership to the app.
• Speed. You can run up to 8 mph.
• Foldable. It folds down, which makes it easy to stow away when you’re not using it.

Here’s what it doesn’t

• Screen. But it does have a built-in tablet holder, so you can BYO tablet.
• Incline options. It doesn’t have any incline options, so say goodbye to the 12-3-30 treadmill workout from TikTok.
• Speakers or fan. The City L6 doesn’t have these features, but it does have Bluetooth connectivity, so you can connect your headphones.

The City L6 doesn’t have the major speed or motor power of the Carbon or Pro treadmills, so it’s not the best for sprints or speed work. It also doesn’t have an incline, so you can’t simulate going uphill. It’s just straight, flat surface, sugar pie. 

But if you’re short on space, still like the idea of using a treadmill with iFit capacity, and aren’t planning on doing super-intense workouts, this base model could be a good choice.

Shop City Series

A side-by-side comparison of ProForm treadmills

	Pro 9000	Pro 2000	Carbon T10	Carbon T7	City L6
Price	$1,799	$1,499	$1,403	$999	$699
Dimensions	35.3 x 77.3 x 59.6 in.	35.3 x 77.3 x 59.6 in.	35.2 x 74.6 x 64.4 in.	35.2 x 73.5 x 57.5 in.	29 x 70.3 x 44.5 in.
Running deck size	20 x 60 in.	20 x 60 in.	20 x 55 in.	20 x 55 in.	17.5 x 45 in.
Weight capacity	300 lbs.	300 lbs.	300 lbs.	300 lbs.	250 lbs.
Max speed	12 mph (19 kph)	12 mph (19 kph)	10 mph (16 kph)	10 mph (16 kph)	8 mph (13 kph)
Max incline	12%	12%	12%	10%	none
Screen size	22 in.	10 in.	10 in.	7 in.	none
iFit-compatible?	yes	yes	yes	yes	yes
Additional features	trainer-controlled adjustments, cooling fan, folding “space-saver” design, Bluetooth compatibility	trainer-controlled adjustments, cooling fan, folding “space-saver” design, Bluetooth compatibility	trainer-controlled adjustments, cooling fan, folding “space-saver” design, audio port	trainer-controlled adjustments, cooling fan, folding “space-saver” design, audio port	compact design, tablet stand

ProForm company policies

Before you finalize your order, make sure to look over ProForm’s company policies. It’s important to understand your options when it comes to returns, repairs, and even financing. 

ProForm’s policies include: 

• Warranty. ProForm offers a warranty for 10 years on the frame, 2 years on parts, and 1 year on labor.
• Returns and refunds. You can request a return within 30 days of receiving the treadmill, and you’ll have to pay a $250 return shipping fee. Shipping and delivery charges are nonrefundable. Charges for any wear or damage to returned equipment may apply. 
• Shipping. ProForm offers free shipping through the following carriers/services: UPS Freight, Old Dominion, NVC Logistics, MXG Group, NonStopDelivery, Demar Logistics, and Last Mile Home. The shipping service will call before delivery, and all non-UPS shipments require a signature upon delivery.
• Assembly. White-glove assembly (normally available for an additional fee) is on hold until further notice due to the COVID-19 pandemic. ProForm instead offers detailed assembly instructions and recommends having two people available to put together products.  
• Financing. ProForm offers a no-money-down financing program with 0% APR for 12, 36, or 39 months, with equal payments for eligible buyers. Restrictions, exclusions, and exceptions may apply. 

While ProForm’s products, shipping, and customer service have many positive reviews, some users have shared not-so-pleasant experiences, from used parts to equipment failing after a short time. These users have had difficulty reaching ProForm’s parent company, iFit, to get their issues resolved.

How to pick the ProForm treadmill for you

All of ProForm’s treadmills are known for being durable, comfortable, and feature-filled. TBH, the brand as a whole sorta sets the bar for what a home treadmill should be, so these machines are definitely worth considering. 

The main thing is figuring out which model is the best investment for you. Consider the following as you make your decision:

Price

Your budget is a key factor in deciding which treadmill is for you. Luckily, ProForm offers options at a variety of price points, from the affordable City L6 (starting at $699) to its pricier Pro Series (up to $1,799).

Don’t forget: You’ll also want to budget for your iFit subscription, which is offered at a monthly fee (but it is ~optional~).

Size

When it comes to exercise equipment, size matters. Depending on both your needs and your living space, you’ll need a treadmill that will — quite literally — fit into your life. 

Think about your space and the max size you can accommodate (including storage, if you plan to fold up your ProForm after each use!).

Max speed and incline

Do you crave a more intense treadmill run, with high speeds and steep inclines? Or are your workouts a little more leisurely? Your exercise plans and goals will determine the levels of speed and incline you need in a treadmill. 

ProForm’s Pro Series is great for serious runners who want to run fast and hard, while the City L6 will best benefit those looking for a slower, less intense workout. And if you want variety in your workouts, the Carbon Series can fit your needs.

Weight capacity

While both the Pro and Carbon series can support up to 300 lbs., the City L6 can hold a max of 250 lbs.

Features

What features matter to you? Maybe a screen is nice, but you don’t mind using a tablet. Or perhaps you really want a built-in fan and the ability to connect your wireless headphones.  

Figuring out your absolute must-haves will help you select the model that best meets your needs.

Browse treadmills at ProForm

Other treadmill options to consider

Horizon T101

• Price: $999
• Features: max speed of 10 mph, multi-app compatible (Peloton, STUDIO, Nike Run Club, Aaptiv), 300-lb. capacity, foldable, built-in Bluetooth speakers and USB charging ports, tablet holder

Much like the ProForm City L6, this base model is a solid, well-rounded product at a budget-friendly price. Unlike the City L6, however, this simple Horizon treadmill offers a few special bells and whistles, including Bluetooth speakers, a fan, USB charging ports, AND incline ability. 

The Horizon T101 is great for treadmill newbies as well as more seasoned runners — as long as they don’t go too fast, since it has a max speed of 10 mph. And while Horizon doesn’t include iFit, it does offer a greater variety of on-demand fitness apps, including Peloton, Nike Run Club, STUDIO, and Aaptiv. 

Shop now at Horizon Fitness

NordicTrack Commercial 2950

• Price: $2,499
• Features: 22-in. touch screen, max speed of 12 mph, 300-lb. capacity, built-in fan, both incline and decline options, iFit-compatible, large tread belt

With both incline and decline capabilities, a 22-in. screen, and speeds up to 12 mph, the NordicTrack Commercial 2950 offers many of the same functions as the ProForm Pro 9000. It also features a built-in fan and access to the iFit subscription service.

Despite their many similarities, two key details put the Pro 9000 ahead of this NordicTrack treadmill.

First is the cost, with the NordicTrack coming in at a significantly higher price than the ProForm. Second, the NordicTrack isn’t foldable, so it may not be the best option unless you have the space to leave it out all the time.

Shop now at NordicTrack

Frequently asked questions

What is the best ProForm treadmill?

Overall, ProForms are top-notch treadmills, and each series has its pros and cons. While some models may have more bells and whistles than others, it all comes down to which treadmill is best *for you*.

The Pro 9000 is the best for Really Serious Runners since it can run at top speeds and simulate running downhill. 

An average exerciser who runs more to stay fit than, say, to try to win races? You’ll get a solid experience with the Carbon T7 or T10 — it just won’t go quite as fast or simulate running downhill.

If you’re looking for something that works for walking or light jogging, or maybe just as the occasional sub when you can’t run outside, the City L6 is a good choice. It still has iFit capacity, is easier on your wallet, and can be folded up and stowed away when you’re not using it.

Which is better: ProForm or NordicTrack?

Honestly, that’s something you need to decide for yourself. Both brands offer high quality treadmills (and other home workout equipment) with similar features that can help you get your fitness on. 

Which is best for you depends on your needs and preferences. You’ll want to consider each brand’s available models, the features they offer, pricing or financing options, and any other details that are important to you. 

To help you out, we’ve got all the deets you need on NordicTrack’s treadmills here.

Where can I buy ProForm treadmills?

Ready to get your own ProForm treadmill? You can order one directly from ProForm’s website.

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Friday Faves

Hi friends! Happy Friday and Happy New Years’ Eve! What are you up to this weekend?? Any fun plans for tonight? We’re meeting up with some friends for a family party (kids + adults) and spending the rest of the weekend cleaning up Christmas (wah) and getting ready to go back to school/life etc. 

I feel like I’ve been completely lazy all week this week… and it’s been pretty glorious. Our house is a disaster, we’ve been sleeping in every single day, and I’ve been living the pajama life. The past month was extra busy and it felt good to enjoy some quiet, calm, and some non-productive times after all of the craziness. I feel rested and ready to get back into it next week!

It’s time for the weekly Friday Faves party! This is where I share some of my favorite finds from the week and around the web. I love hearing about your faves, too, so please shout out something you’re loving in the comments section below. 

A fun highlight from the week: we met up with some friends at Charro del Rey for steak and seafood. Madre watched the kiddos and we got to catch up with Annie – one of my best friends since kindergarten – her beautiful sis and husband, and Natalie and her husband. We haven’t been to Charro del Rey in forever and all of the food was amazing. 

Random/house:

New Perfect Pot! I ordered this during their Black Friday promo because I have and love the Always Pan. We’ve had the pan for over a year and it still looks beautiful and has maintained its nonstick quality. 

You know you’re at a special point in your life where you’re excited about a pot, but here we are. 😉

A goodie package from my friends at HigherDOSE! They sent a copper body brush, tongue scraper, and water bottle. Everything they make is amazing, so I’m pumped about these. (I already have a body brush so I’m going to gift this one to a Favorite Things winner)

Read, watch, listen:

Switch your New Years resolution mindset.

How to create goals that actually stick

This made me laugh:

 

 

 

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A post shared by Strange Planet (@nathanwpylestrangeplanet)

Why rest is the ultimate protective gear in a busy chaotic world 

Strengthen your mindset and create unstoppable momentum

Beauty + fashion:

HUGE Beautycounter holiday gift set sale! Check it out here and get some incredible bundles and last-chance products for up to 65% off. I recommend the Beyond Gloss minis, Clean Dreams set, Mini Must-haves, and bath oil trio!

I was kind of skeptical about Amazon fashion because I’ve had some purchases with less-than-awesome quality over the years, but it seems like they’ve stepped it up. This sweater set is SO cute and only $35. Ordering one to wear with booties.

My go-to gym jacket is on sale at Nordstrom. (I wear mine to train clients because it looks fitness professional-ish.)

This moto jacket came in a recent Trunk Club and is on sale for $89.

Health and fitness:

An interesting read about hair loss during and after stressful/traumatic events. This has started happening to me recently, so I’m looking at replenishing minerals and keeping up with collagen intake. I have the same baby bangs right now that I had postpartum, which makes me hopeful that some of it is growing back!

HIIT treadmill workout for beginners

How to train for a half marathon while strength training

Send some love to your vagus nerve!

Good eats: 

Sharing some ideas here if you’re looking to meal prep this week or make some healthy nutrition changes!

Download my free Meal Prep blueprint here! This is exactly how I meal prep for our family and has some of our go-to recipes, plus a printable planner

Check out Sakara. I LOVE this meal delivery service and plan out my deliveries for busy weeks or when I know I’ll want something to look forward to. I had a shipment this past week and it felt like such a gift to each fresh and vibrant food I didn’t have to cook. Check it out here and use the code XOGINAH for 20% off.

Butternut squash and turkey chili

5 days of meal prep eats

Making some of this chickpea curry salad this weekend

Happy New Year!
xo

Gina 

The post Friday Faves appeared first on The Fitnessista.

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Curve Boring Workouts with a Curved Treadmill: The Best 5 Options You Can Buy

Psst. We’ve got something new to show you today. Ever heard of a curved treadmill?

Unlike a regular ol’ flat treadmill with a belt, these treadmills feature a slightly concave running surface composed of several slats. And they’re not powered by electricity — they’re powered by you. The design of the treadmill makes it super responsive to your movements, so you’re able to set the pace — unencumbered by the speed restraints of a regular treadmill.

This makes a curved treadmill great for speed training, along with HIIT workouts, according to a 2018 study — because you can stop on a dime or change your speed instantly without busting it. The curved treadmill also provides a more intense workout. The drawback? They’re massive, both in size and price.

Regardless, using a curved treadmill is a totally different experience from a traditional treadmill, and one that’s favored among competitive runners, pro athletes, and Sonic the Hedgehog — gotta go fast!

Here are our fave curved treadmills if you want to give this human hamster wheel a try.

The best curved treadmill picks

• Best high end: NOHrD Sprintbok Treadmill
• Best budget option: SB Fitness Equipment CT400
• Best for larger bodies: Woodway Curve XL
• Best for full body workouts: Technogym Skillmill Connect
• Best for work: TrueForm Office Cruiser

Why run on a curved treadmill?

Other than looking really cool, why should you invest in a curved treadmill for running? We asked Dr. Helen Goldstein, the Director of Physical Therapy at FlexIt, a virtual personal training service. According to her, there are three key benefits of using a curved treadmill:

1. A better workout. “You work harder on a curved treadmill,” she explains. She goes on, “The curved shape allows for the weight of the body to utilize gravity to pull the belt down and back, adapting to your speed. With a bigger stride, the foot strikes further up on the treadmill, allowing you to gain more speed.” She says to think of it like a skateboarder on a half-pipe: the higher up on the half-pipe the board goes, the faster it’s gonna travel back down. So, does Vans make running shoes?
2. Improved safety. On a curved treadmill, Dr. Goldstein explains, “your own feet set the speed, rather than clicking a 10.0 speed that you realize too late you can’t keep up with.” No more getting yeeted off your own treadmill. She does remind us that a curved treadmill is a totally diff experience from a standard treadmill and may take some getting used to, though.
3. Convenience. Finally, adds Dr. Goldstein, curved treadmills are hella convenient — OK, she didn’t say “hella.” No electricity required, so you can set it up wherever you want and use it whenever you want.

Pros of curved treadmills

• more intense workout
• ideal for speed training and HIIT
• safer to change speeds and stop than a regular treadmill
• you set the pace
• no electricity required

Cons of curved treadmills

• extremely expensive
• takes some getting used to
• bulky and heavy

Our picks: how we chose

OK, so there really aren’t that many curved treadmills on the market, nor are there many reviews on those treadmills. We went with the ones that were made by otherwise trusted brands (like NOHrD, Technogym, Woodway, and Assault Fitness) and the ones that we could find reviews for. On the whole, they seem to be remarkably well made and haven’t yet reached the popularity needed for there to be lots of cheap Amazon knockoffs.

We also made sure to choose curved treadmills at a variety of price points. They’re all expensive TBH, but for some of us *raises both hands* there’s a huge diff between $3 grand and $10 grand.

Pricing guide

• $ = less than $3,000
• $$ = $3,000–$6,000
• $$$ = $6,000+

The best curved treadmills

Best high end

NOHrD Sprintbok Treadmill

Price: $$$

Can we just say that this is the most beautiful piece of fitness equipment we’ve ever laid eyes on? Because wow. The woodgrain look is just *chef’s kiss.* According to NOHrD, the Sprintbok is super quiet thanks to its vibration-minimizing design. It also comes equipped with a 17-inch (43 cm) tablet that you can use with the Sprintbok app to track your progress and stream workouts.

shop now at NOHrD

Best budget option

SB Fitness Equipment CT400

Price: $

With its sub-$3,000 price, this was by far the least expensive curved treadmill we found in our hunt — and with a solid 5-star rating on Amazon from 8 reviews that didn’t set off our fake review detector. It has Bluetooth connectivity for heart rate monitoring, and even has three manual resistance levels if you need to add a bit more challenge to your workout.

Shop now at amazon

Best for larger bodies

Woodway Curve XL

Price: $$$

The Woodway Curve is a well-known curved treadmill that’s actually used in a lot of scientific research on curved treadmills, so it’s def a trusted brand. And although most curved treadmills have a 350-pound (159-kilogram) max user weight, this model (the Curve XL) can accommodate up to 400 pounds (181 kilograms) when running and 800 pounds (363 kilograms) when walking.

It’s made for taller folks, too — the treadmill measures in at over 6 feet (183 centimeters) tall and 7 feet (213 centimeters) long, placing the handrails at a comfortable height for the vertically blessed and leaving plenty of room to maximize your stride.

shop now at woodway

Best for full body workouts

Technogym Skillmill Connect

Price: $$$

The Skillmill is essentially a whole gym wrapped up into one tricked-out treadmill. It comes with dual handlebars, allowing to you safely adopt different positions to activate different muscle groups. You can also add on the optional accessory kit, which contains straps, handles, and a waist belt — allowing you to get in a resistance training sesh during your cardio sesh.

The Skillmill Connect is also Bluetooth-enabled for heart rate and progress tracking, and you can use the Technogym mywellness app to access Skillmill workouts.

shop now at technogym

Best for work

TrueForm Office Cruiser

Price: $$

TrueForm makes two well-known curved treadmills: the Trainer and the Runner. But they’ve also branched out into standing-desk-friendly treadmills to suit the WFH crowd. The Office Cruiser is a Runner with no display and open handlebars, so you can use it with a standing desk. It’s a minimalist choice with no connectivity and no display, but you’ll get one heck of a workout while you work.

shop now at trueform

The bottom line

A curved treadmill just might be your new BFF if you wanna get faster. The foot-powered slat design gives you total control over your speed and provides a more intense workout than a flat treadmill with a belt. They’re also ideal for HIIT workouts. Curved treadmills are bulky and expensive, but may be worth it if you wanna take your running game to the next level.

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The Biggest Fitness and Wellness Trends to Watch in 2022

There’s something about a new year that’s totally refreshing and hopeful — doubly so in this trouble-fraught decade (that we’re only *checks notes* 24 months into).

We here at Greatist are cautiously optimistic, and we think 2022 is gonna be a good one — for several reasons.

Here are our predictions for the health, wellness, and fitness trends that’ll dominate 2022 and make it a year of mindfulness, rest, growth, and reconnection.

How we made our predictions

We stay so up to date on all things trending in health, fitness, and wellness that we’re essentially time travelers. How? We get emails — SOOOOOO many emails. And we do LOTS of reading, product testing, marketing events, and online window shopping (and finally, in 2021, some real window shopping again).

In addition to making our own observations, we consulted some heavy hitters who have released 2022 predictions or 2021 trend reports of their own — namely, Pinterest Predicts 2022, the Fitt Insider newsletter, and ClassPass: Fitness and Beauty Trends 2022.

FreshSplash/Getty Images

1. Wellness as a way of life

In 2022, taking care of yourself holistically won’t be just a thing you do when you have time — it’ll be part of who you are (hopefully).

Hot off another mind-boggling year, more and more of us are realizing that we have GOTTA take care of our bodies and brains in a world that’s full of uncertainty and tension.

And instead of making self-care just another thing to mark off on a to-do list, people are finding more ways to incorporate wellness seamlessly into their lives. A good example is the humble weighted blanket. We all need a blanket, but the weighted blanket goes above and beyond and provides some extra benefits in addition to keeping you warm and snuggly.

Think functional furniture, intuitive wearables, thoughtfully designed clothing, and anything else that allows you to incorporate wellness more fluidly into your everyday life.

Brands we’re watching in 2022

• Resonate is a modern seat and ottoman that will look totally at home in your living room, AND it uses vibration, light, and sounds (from the accompanying Resonate app) to make meditation as simple as taking a seat.
• AGOGIE resistance band pants will be your new best friend for active recovery days, working from home, and quick errands, giving you a little bit of a workout with every step you take.
• Fitbit’s new Daily Readiness Score, which tells you each morning — based on your sleep, heart rate, and activity — whether you need to take a rest day or push your limits (available with Fitbit Premium).

2. Affordable smart fitness

After the Great Peloton Price Drop of August 2021, which followed a late-pandemic slump in sales, other smart fitness companies started taking notice.

And as ClassPass notes in their 2022 report, group fitness and gym workouts are back, baby (and all the extroverts said “Amen”).

Fitt Insider also coolly observed that in 2022, digital fitness companies will have to compete not only against other digital fitness companies, but against real life gyms too.

What does that likely translate to? Lower prices on home gym equipment.

At Greatist, we’re predicting more innovation in the home gym industry — delivering smarter tech at a price point that doesn’t make us Average Income Earners wince.

Brands we’re watching in 2022

• Tempo Studio, a fitness mirror with physical weights, typically costs at least $2,500, but their new Tempo Move offers the same AI feedback, syncs with your TV, fits neatly in almost any space, and costs a modest $495.
• Macvon, a smart home fitness company founded in 2019, debuted with a sub-$800, 65-inch touch-screen smart mirror, and they’re set to launch a strength device that’s a direct competitor to the pricey-but-totally-worth-it Tonal.
• The Amazon Halo View is Amazon’s new $80 fitness watch, boasting some really handy features when you add the Halo membership for a measly $4/month — that is, if you’re OK with the company you order your toilet paper from knowing all about your fitness and sleep habits.

3. Making peace with periods

Surfing the red wave is about to get a lot easier and less stressful. Gone are the days of wishing our periods would go *poof*. Instead, it’s time to embrace them for what they are…

OK, they still suck.

But anyways, in the past few months we’ve noticed a LOT of new companies and products popping up in the period space. And Pinterest has too — one of their trend predictions for 2022 is “Mindful Menstruation.”

For real, though, folks who are trying to get pregnant aren’t the only ones doing in-depth cycle tracking anymore. This info can provide tons of insights for anyone.

We’ve also noticed lots of natural alternatives for period pain relief in our DMs lately (bye-bye, ibuprofen) and seen that disposable pads and tampons are DEFINITELY on their way out. (But if that’s what you like, you do you — your period is YOURS, and there are tons of more sustainable, better-for-your-body disposable brands out there.)

2022’s periods are gonna be peaceful AF.

Brands we’re watching in 2022

• PowerDot, a high end transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation device from Therabody (total recovery experts), now has a Period Pain Relief program: a medication-free, wear-all-day way to reduce the pain of menstrual cramps.
• Hate birth control? You’re SO not alone. Enter Natural Cycles, the first FDA-approved birth control that uses temperature and cycle tracking to tell you your likely fertile days.
• If you’ve always wanted to try period underwear but can’t afford to pay $35+ per pair, check out The Period Company‘s line of affordable, super-absorbent cheekies. Most of their styles cost about $12, with the most expensive clocking in at $24 — and you can go pad-, tampon-, and cup-free with them if you want to.

4. The food renaissance

After nearly 2 years of being on a roller coaster of doom and isolation, we’re all ready to reconnect — with family, friends, and food traditions. 2020 was a big big BIG year for baking, fermenting, and gardening, and farm-to-table is still dominating our collective food consciousness — as noted by Pinterest’s inclusion of “Traditional Eats” on their Pinterest Predicts 2022 report.

In 2022, we suspect more people than ever are gonna grow their own herb(s) and have a dealer in their contacts — a local honey dealer, that is.

Even in concrete jungles, fermenting, sprouting, microgreens, pickling, canning, baking, dehydrating, and hydroponics make it possible to make food the old-fashioned way (while, of course, utilizing all that modern technology has to offer to simplify the process).

Brands we’re watching in 2022

• The Farmstand, from Lettuce Grow (co-founded by Zooey Deschanel), is a n00b-friendly hydroponic garden that will have you harvesting your own greens in as little as 3 weeks — even indoors.
• Ninja isn’t a new company by any means, but they’re a fave for moderately priced, reliable kitchen equipment for beginners and home chefs alike — and they’re constantly *churning* out new equipment to make home cooking easier and more fun, like the Ninja CREAMi ice cream maker. (Pun so intended.)
• Farmer Jones Farm sells dreamy curated boxes of home-grown goodies like regeneratively farmed veggies, raw honey, and fresh flowers — the very same that they supply to lots of high end restaurants through their sister co, The Chef’s Garden. If you don’t have a convenient local option, it’s definitely the way to go.

5. Customized everything

Although it’s taken years, the “one size fits all” approach to health and wellness has fallen by the wayside. There definitely seems to be a deeper appreciation of how unique each and every body is, and that’s why so so SO many brands are now offering totally individualized services and products.

We’re talking supplements, workout plans, accessories, and more, crafted with YOU in mind — not some nebulous “ideal customer.”

What’s more, we’re hoping that 2022 brings an end to the ever-raging diet wars. Let’s focus on eating mostly whole foods, enjoying what we eat, and choosing the foods that make us feel best. For one person that may mean strict keto, and for another it might mean going vegan, but we can all get along.

Food manufacturers are continuing to embrace this approach, too, with less-processed product lines made for health-conscious eaters of all dietary persuasions.

Brands we’re watching in 2022

• With custom orthotic inserts — not just for grandparents anymore! — from The Good Feet Store, every shoe you own can be comfy, supportive, and aligned with your lifestyle and wellness goals (and, obviously, your foot). That includes slippers, stilettos, and everything in between.
• Want supplements that are tailored for your DNA and gut microbiome? Viome‘s got you covered, with their super-targeted supplements that are formulated based on your results from blood and stool tests.
• FlexIt offers live virtual personal training sessions uniquely suited to your needs, fitness level, and equipment access. Buy one class or several at a time, with no subscription required.

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Top Posts and Pages of 2021

Hi friends! How’s the day going? It’s rainy and lovely here, so we’re enjoying a slow morning before meeting up with friends. 

As we finish out the year, it’s always fun and insightful to back and see which posts and pages performed the best. It gives me some insight into the types of posts you like to see here on the blog, and also how people find me! I use this as inspiration to create content throughout the year, along with your incredible survey suggestions and feedback. 100% of the time, it also encourages me to keep being my random all-over-the-place self. 😉 

Top Posts and Pages of 2021

1. How to set up your Peloton bike, or any spin bike

I’m proud of this post and was pumped to see it top the list. Peloton does a lot of things really well, but I think they drop the ball when it comes to bike setup, especially for newbie riders. The how-to video is insanely short and misses a bunch of important pieces and tips, so I created my own. I think it would be advantageous if they did a free virtual set-up call with a specialist and it would help so many riders have a safer and more enjoyable ride.

2. How to keep your guinea pig cage clean

This is the most random post ever for a fitness blog, but v. important. 😉 When we first got our guinea pigs, I was determined that our house could not smell like hay or a barn. I did hours of research on guinea pig care and cage cleaning, and finally figured out a good method. If your kids are begging for guinea pigs, definitely check out this post along with this post on guinea pig care. 

3. PiYo review month 1

This post always tops the list because people are searching for PiYo reviews, but it’s not my best work. The photos aren’t great and it could use an update, but since it consistently performs well, I’m not touching it. 

4. We painted our kitchen cabinets Benjamin Moore Swiss Coffee

This was a huge project but I’m SO glad we did it! It made such a noticeable difference in our kitchen and we saved at least a thousand dollars by doing it ourselves. 

5. How to combine Peloton with other workouts

When you get a Peloton bike, it can be tricky to shuffle in these workouts with your current routine. I break it all down in this post and explain how to create a balanced plan while still enjoying your Peloton.

6. How to PR on your Peloton bike

Another Peloton post! In this one, I break down all of the ways you can hit a new personal record (PR) without cheating aka recalibrating your bike. (<— yes, people do this.) 

7. DIY shower steamers with essential oils

This is an older post, but I love this recipe! It also makes a unique and beautiful homemade gift ideas. This post reminded me to get back into beauty DIY posts because I love creating them. 🙂 

8. How to make tempeh taste good

Tempeh can be so delicious, but also super nasty. (Never ever put it in the slow cooker. I learned this the hard way!) In this post, I share some of my favorite methods to make amaaaaazing tempeh. 

9. Morning Detox Drink

This morning detox drink combines lemon, apple cider vinegar, cayenne, and honey. It’s warming, delicious, and provides a nice immune system and metabolism boost. I haven’t had it regularly lately, but now that the weather is getting chilly, I definitely want to start drinking it again. 

10. Top 5 easy healthy meals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner

These meals are all still in our current rotation! I love quick and simple meal recipes, and these are some of our family favorites. 

11. Potty training tips from two nanas

A recap from that one time my mom and nana potty trained Liv in 24 hours. While some parts of parenting have been incredible challenging (hi, reflux and postpartum depression), I got it easy on the potty training front. Mom and Nani potty trained Liv, and P potty trained herself when she was 18 months old. (She yelled, “NO MORE DIAPERS” so I was like, “Ok, make sure you tell me when you need to go potty.” And she did. The end.) Miracles do happen, I tell ya. 

12. DIY grazing boxes

This is a great party appetizing or gift idea! Instead of making a large charcuterie board, you can separate them into pastry boxes or cups for individual servings. 

13. How to train for a half marathon while strength training

When you train for a half marathon, it’s easy to let strength training fall by the wayside. BUT, it can significantly help with performance, injury prevention, and recovery. In this post, I share some ideas for strength training while you’re building up your mileage and speed, plus a plan you can follow. My good friend Lindsay has used this plan for all of her recent half marathons and has CRUSHED her goals (sub 2-hour!). 

14. I got my breast implants removed – my experience with explant surgery

Getting my breast implants removed was one of the best things I’ve done for my heal. They constantly burned, ached, and caused increased inflammation in my body. It was a big surgery, but I’d do it again tomorrow. I’m still getting used to my smaller boobs, years later, but I feel a heaviness lifted off of me. They don’t hurt at all anymore and I’m so thankful I took this step for my health. 

15. Peloton workout plan without the bike

This is a plan you can follow using workouts from the app, even if you don’t have a bike! While the bike classes as my favorite, I also love the yoga workouts, meditations, and outdoor running and walking workouts. 

16. Best classes from the Peloton app

In this post, I share my top classes from the Peloton app! I definitely think I could update this post since they’ve added so many new classes and offerings. 

17. Pure Barre vs. barre3 — which one is better?

As a barre fanatic, I’m sharing my thoughts on these two popular barre formats and which one I like the most. 

18. Fitness Categories

So so happy ya’ll are still using the workouts in the fitness categories! I have hundreds of workouts posted, from HIIT to strength, yoga, barre, and stretch, and have plans to post much more in 2022. 

19. How much cardio is too much?

Breaking down how much cardio you should be doing for your goals. (It might be less than you think!) 

20. Homemade nibble bars

These little nibble bars are the perfect toddler snack! They’re a little sweet without being too overwhelming and can be frozen in individual servings to enjoy throughout the week. 

So, tell me, friends: any posts you loved from 2021? Anything you’d like to see here on the blog in 2022??

xoxo

Gina

The post Top Posts and Pages of 2021 appeared first on The Fitnessista.

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Better with Anti-Age: 10 Skin Serums that Fight Off Wrinkles and Blemishes

With all the stellar work your skin does as a durable shield against the elements, it will inevitably develop wrinkles, lines, and blemishes over time — otherwise known as aging.

The weight of sun exposure and environmental damage wreaks havoc on skin cells. These stressors cause a decrease in collagen production, which eventually leads to the formation of fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging skin.

To fight back against these visible signs of aging, skin care products aim to fill out and plump the skin with moisture-rich ingredients, keeping it soft and hydrated. Not only does this improve the appearance of lines and wrinkles over time, but it also creates a smoother surface for makeup application.

Skin care routines are as varied as people’s complexions, but some general steps are widely recognized as good anti-aging (or as we like to say “pro-aging”) practices. Exfoliating, cleansing, hydrating, and moisturizing are skin care mainstays. But what about serums?

Does serum really have anti-aging effects on skin?

Although you may think your bomb moisturizer will do just as good a job as serum, it’s not true. Serums are known for their high concentrations of active ingredients like antioxidants, anti-inflammatories, skin-plumping agents, and other goodies. The active ingredients penetrate deeply into the skin, where they help reduce fine lines and wrinkles, while also diminishing hyperpigmentation, uneven skin tone, acne scarring, and damaged collagen fibers.

Now, if you’re new to the serum game, we can’t blame you if you’re hesitant to slap the first one you see onto your skin. That’s why we’ve done the research work for you to ID some of the best options out there for various skin types.

So, without further ado, let’s have a look at the 10 best anti-aging serums to keep your skin looking fresh.

10 Best anti-aging serums

1. Best for oily skin: Peach & Lily Glass Skin Refining Serum
2. Best with SPF: EleVen by Venus Williams Unrivaled Sun Serum SPF 35
3. Best for dry skin: PCA SKIN Hyaluronic Acid Boosting Serum
4. Best for a splurge: Skin Ceuticals C E Ferulic Combination Antioxidant Treatment
5. Best cruelty-free option: Biossance Squalane + Phyto-Retinol Serum
6. Best exfoliant: Mad Hippie Advanced Skin Care Exfoliating Serum
7. Best with vitamin C: Tatcha Violet-C Brightening Serum
8. Best for fine Lines: Kiehl’s Powerful-Strength Line-Reducing Concentrate
9. Best for acne-prone skin: La Roche-Posay Pure Vitamin C Face Serum
10. Best soothing: Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare B3Adaptive SuperFoods Stress Rescue Super Serum

Edited by Dana Davenport

How we selected our top serums

We looked at various factors when compiling our list of the best anti-aging serums because, of course, you’re worth it. Here are the main things we considered:

• Active ingredients. You need to know what’s in the serum so you know what you’re putting onto your skin, and what it took to make it.
• Price point. You need a good option you can afford. And you need to know you’re getting good bang for your buck.
• Reviews. You need to know that other users can vouch for the effects or make you aware of any red flags.

Plus, each of our picks has gone through a comprehensive vetting process. We wanted to ensure our chosen brands aren’t making unsupported health claims or engaging in anything dodgy!

Pricing guide

$ = under $40
$$ = $40–75
$$$ = over $75

The 10 best anti-aging serums

Let’s soak these in!

Best for oily skin: Peach & Lily Glass Skin Refining Serum

• Price: $
• Highlights: lightweight formula packed with niacinamide, peach and mountain yam extract, hyaluronic acid, and peptides

The weightless formula of this serum soaks rapidly into the skin without leaving a greasy residue, so it’s a great option if your skin is already oily. People rave about their dewy, luminous skin after using the serum for a few weeks.

It’s a popular serum as it really packs a punch with versatile ingredients that hydrate, reduce inflammation, increase collagen production, and keeps free radical damage in check.

It’s cruelty-free and fragrance-free, so it’s suitable for anyone with sensitive skin. But be aware that niacinamide can trigger skin reactions in some people. So, it’s best to test a patch somewhere hidden before slathering it everywhere.

Buy the Peach & Lily Glass Skin Refining Serum

Best with SPF: Eleven by Venus Williams Unrivaled Sun Serum SPF 35

• Price: $$
• Highlights: silky, lightweight, combines reef-safe zinc oxide with prickly pear stem extract

There’s no need to worry about harmful chemicals in this sun-protecting serum, as it uses 25 percent zinc oxide to protect your skin against damaging ultraviolet (UV) rays. And, it’s transparent, doesn’t leave a powdery, white residue, and is suitable for all skin tones.

Protecting your skin from sun damage helps support collagen and elastin. It can also prevent and reduce pigmentation issues.

According to reviews, you can’t fault it as a sunscreen, but the dropper is infuriating to use and gets clogged easily.

Buy the Eleven by Venus Williams Unrivaled Sun Serum SPF 35

Best for dry skin: PCA Skin Hyaluronic Acid Boosting Serum

• Price: $$$
• Highlights: hydrating formula with hyaluronic acid and niacinamide

Hydration is essential for dry skin, and PCA takes the top spot in this category, thanks to its star ingredient, hyaluronic acid.

This smoothing, long-lasting serum is a triple threat. It provides hydration on the skin’s surface, deep within its tissues, and boosts your own hyaluronic acid production.

Hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid (say that three times if you can) draws moisture into the skin, sending fine lines packing, while the niacinamide helps maintain your skin’s protective barrier.

The reviews generally sing its praises, but a few people weren’t impressed at the half-filled bottle that doesn’t last long.

Buy the PCA Skin Hyaluronic Acid Boosting Serum

Best for a splurge: Skin Ceuticals C E Ferulic with 15% L-ascorbic acid

• Price: $$$
• Highlights: brightening formula with vitamin C, vitamin E, and ferulic acid

Yes, it’s pricey, but it’s also unique. We chose Skin Ceuticals for our splurge serum because of its impressive, patented formula that banishes up to 41 percent of oxidative damage from the environment.

And if that’s not good enough, the vitamin C in this luxurious formula works its magic for up to 72 hours — brightening your complexion and helping the appearance of lines and wrinkles.

Users seem to agree that a little goes a long way, which helps them feel better about the price.

Buy the Skin Ceuticals C E Ferulic

Best cruelty-free option: Biossance Squalane + Phyto-Retinol Serum

• Price: $$
• Highlights: gel-like cream formula with plant-derived retinol alternatives

Biossance uses sugarcane-derived squalane rather than the stuff from shark’s livers, thereby saving the lives of 2 million sharks every year. Coupled with being a vegan, sustainable brand, they took our cruelty-free top spot.

This serum also contains bakuchiol — a rational alternative to retinol that improves fine lines, wrinkles, and sun damage. Reviewers report that it’s lightweight and doesn’t irritate the skin. However, those with oily skin may find it slightly too greasy.

Buy the Biossance Squalane + Phyto-Retinol Serum

Best exfoliant: Mad Hippie AHA Exfoliating Peel Serum

• Price: $
• Highlights: lightweight formula with 16 active ingredients

Is it a peel, or is it a serum? Mad Hippie doesn’t seem to know. That said, it’s our fave exfoliant choice, as it contains 10 percent alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) to gently remove dead skin cells and reduce the appearance of wrinkles. It also rejuvenates and nourishes the skin, leaving you looking smoother, brighter, and more glowy.

And by way of a bonus, Mad Hippie also blends the antioxidant properties of apple stem cells and a blend of alpine plants to balance your skin’s discoloration and help retain moisture.

Buy Mad Hippie AHA Exfoliating Peel Serum

Best with vitamin C: Tatcha Violet-C Brightening Serum

• Price: $$
• Highlights: fluid texture that absorbs quickly containing 20 percent vitamin C and 10 percent AHA’s

We don’t have a category for the prettiest packaging, so instead, the Tatcha Violet-C is our top vitamin C choice, thanks to its high concentration of two types of this powerful antioxidant.

Vitamin C helps tackle the effects of damaging free radicals, which contribute to the aging process. Additional ingredients, including 10 percent fruit-derived AHA’s, act together to promote cell turnover, while hydrating and plumping the skin.

Buy the Tatcha Violet-C Brightenting Serum

Best for fine lines: Kiehl’s Powerful-Strength Line-Reducing Concentrate

• Price: $$
• Highlights: smooth texture with 12.5 percent vitamin C and hyaluronic acid

This potent serum is our recommendation for fine lines because the vitamin C-rich formula combines with hyaluronic acid to boost radiance and visibly diminish fine lines, wrinkles, and pores. It’s also hydrating, as the hyaluronic acid attracts moisture, creating a plumping, smoothing effect.

However, some users do report having slight skin reactions to this serum — and it isn’t a cruelty-free choice.

Buy the Kiehl’s Powerful-Strength line-Reducing Concentrate

Best for acne-prone skin: La Roche-Posay Pure Vitamin C Face Serum

• Price: $
• Highlights: weightless texture with 10 percent vitamin C, salicylic acid, and neurosensine

If you’re experiencing adult acne, this Pure Vitamin C face serum with salicylic acid helps clear up clogged pores while tackling lines and wrinkles with its vitamin C formula.

It’s suitable for sensitive skin and soothes inflamed acne patches with neurosensine — a compound naturally found in healthy skin.

Buy the La Roche-Posay Pure Vitamin C Face Serum

Best soothing: Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Stress Rescue Super Serum

• Price: $$
• Highlights: light formula with niacinamide

If your face has maskne, redness, irritation, or inflammation, reaching for this Stress Rescue Super Serum is a wise move.

Niacinamide is the hero here, waving a double-edged sword. Firstly, it soothes inflammation, then it works to improve the skin’s lipid barrier, reducing sensitivity.

And if that isn’t enough, the ashwagandha and goji help your skin adapt to stress, reduce free radical damage, minimize dark spots and fine lines, and calms your overall complexion.

There’s a slew of reviews from overjoyed peeps who can’t praise this serum’s skin-calming effects enough. 

Buy the Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Stress Rescue Super Serum

Who should get anti-aging serums?

While we believe beauty exists even with wrinkles, we won’t dissuade you from wanting to stave them off. And anyone who values their skin could definitely benefit from an anti-aging serum, as they’re an effective, noninvasive way to help combat unwanted blemishes and address issues like inflammation and dryness.

Think of anti-aging serum as a super-concentrated magic moisturizer that you should weave into your skin care routine no matter your age or skin situation.

You may think that if you’re in your 20s, managing the signs of aging isn’t a top priority, but the truth is the earlier you start, the better. Prevention is better than cure. Although you may not realize, as soon as you join adulthood, the mechanisms that repair your skin begin to slow down, and early skin care practice lays the groundwork for great skin later on in life. And it’s never too late to start.

Pros and Cons of anti-aging or wrinkle serums

Many anti-aging serums make fantastic claims about their benefits, but do these products have any downsides? Here are some of the pros and cons of using anti-aging serums:

Pros

• They provide deep moisture. They have tiny molecules, meaning they can deposit moisture and hydration deep into the tissues of your skin, not just on the surface like a cream.
• They bring out your natural glow. They contain powerful active ingredients like retinol, vitamins, and antioxidants that help your skin health shine from within.
• They’re versatile. There are great options for all purposes and skin types, whether your skin is super sensitive, oily, or dry. Chances are good you’ll be able to find one that suits your skin without making matters worse.

Cons

• They can be pricey. Yep. Some of these serums cost as much as $1,800 per ounce. No shade toward those who got it like that. But for the rest of us, that’s a hit!
• You won’t see results overnight. You’ll likely need to use an anti-aging serum for at least 1 to 2 months consistently before you see any actual results. So beware of any claims of fast-acting effects.
• They can contain harmful ingredients. Also, watch out for preservatives like parabens and sulfates that can irritate your skin.
• They lose potency. Leaving your anti-aging serum on the bathroom shelf for months at a time weakens the strength of the active ingredients, so you’re not getting as much bang for your buck.

Frequently asked questions

Got questions? We’ve got answers.

How long can I keep open serum?

If you’re using serum regularly (which, if you have some, you really should be), then it’s unlikely to last longer than 6 months. However, skin care products generally last between 6 months and 1 year before they begin to lose their potency. So aim to use your serum within the first 9 months.

How many different serums do I need?

It really comes down to personal taste. Some people like to use separate day and nighttime formulas. Typically, day formulas contain sunscreen, whereas night formulas have a thicker consistency. Although it’s recommended to use a serum with sunscreen during daytime hours, aside from that, there’s no real advantage in using different serums at different times of the day.

How do you apply serum?

It’s a little different from putting on lotion. You should cleanse and tone your skin before applying the serum and follow it up with a moisturizer. Check the ingredients on each of your products to ensure you won’t be using combinations that will irritate your skin.

Are basically all anti-aging serums effective?

Sort of, but it obviously depends on the product you buy. Your best bet is to find a quality serum containing proven active ingredients like vitamin C — a powerful antioxidant that removes toxins from your skin. Also, look for retinol that stimulates cells to create fresh new collagen.

Effectiveness also comes down to how regularly you apply the serum and adhere to your skin care routine.

Isn’t serum just a fancy moisturizer?

Nope, they aren’t the same thing. Serums are thinner and lighter than moisturizers, with smaller molecules that nourish the deeper layers of the skin. A moisturizer also hydrates skin and aims to prevent moisture loss with ingredients that stop it from evaporating, like lubes and oils.

What to consider when choosing your anti-aging serum

If you’re looking for a serum to help manage signs of aging, there are some things to consider before purchasing:

• Sunscreen. The absolute number one priority is choosing an option with sunscreen. Selecting a product that protects against UVA and UVB rays with an SPF of at least 30 can help prevent sun damage and skin cancer.
• Skin type. Buying skin products tailored to your skin type can help keep your skin radiant by catering to its particular needs. You’ll manage signs of aging more effectively if you maintain healthy skin.
• Ingredients. Although it may look impressive, products with multiple active ingredients can irritate your skin. More ingredients don’t necessarily boost the serum’s effectiveness, but the right ingredients can. Look for retinoids that stimulate collagen and antioxidants that help prevent cellular damage.

When in doubt, talk with a dermatologist about products they would recommend specifically for your skin. No matter how persuasive the marketing is, certain skin products may not be ideal for you. A medical professional can advise you on a tailored skin care regimen.

The bottom line

If you want to combat the signs of aging on your skin, an anti-aging serum may be just the ticket. There’s a vast range of serums at all price points, so look for one with youth-boosting ingredients proven to brighten your skin as well as reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and discoloration.

And don’t forget to opt for one that complements the other products in your skin care routine for optimal benefits.

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