A Garden Editor’s Guide to Great Skin

Korean sunscreen has changed my life forever. I’m a firm believer that if you can find a product that you actually enjoy putting on, you’ll do it daily and this one is no exception. Not only does this facial SPF absorb like a serum, it is incredibly lightweight and hydrating with zero white cast—not to mention it has the advanced SPF filters that you can’t readily get here in the states, which are far superior for skin protection and coverage.

I was skeptical at first, but after just one use, multiple people insisted on knowing what I’ve been doing differently with my skincare routine. Texture has improved, glow has increased, products absorb like a dream after use, and my jawline has never looked more sculpted. While routine use over time shows best results, I definitely have seen an improvement in the overall youthful plumpness of my skin just in the past two months after adding this to my bedtime routine two to three times a week. If you’ve been eyeing products that boost collagen production, this is the one that works.

There are definitely days of heavy outdoor landscape work where I need to scrape the dirt off and feel alive again. Whether you’ve been battling shrub pruning or just want to refresh after a day at the beach, this body scrub is the most luxurious and moisturizing product I’ve ever used—not to mention it smells divine. I have extremely fair skin and this is the only salt scrub that doesn’t irritate while being equal parts exfoliating and hydrating.

These always seemed so silly and it wasn’t until I was given a pair that I actually understood the need for arm guards. While a pair of elbow length gloves are my usual go-to, these offer a more lightweight and breathable option that still protect from scratches while providing SPF protection.

SPF head to toe, people! Don’t forget the lips; they seem to be the one spot everyone seems to forget. While other sunscreen lip balms are usually only SPF 15, taste horrible, or feel chalky, this one is super moisturizing, provides extra protection while working well under makeup, and doesn’t make you smell like a beach bag. Win!

Scrapes, bug bites, and burns oh my! I’m accident- and mosquito-bite-prone so this magic little spray has been a game changer in quickly healing everything from minor cuts to inflamed insect bites, and even that one little shoulder sliver I missed with sunscreen.

Since getting backyard chickens, I’ve had the unfortunate realization that I am allergic to said chickens. My skin goes into a full-blown dermatitis breakout when I spend much time cleaning or refilling food and water inside the run/coop. It wasn’t until I learned about skin barrier repair that I found relief, and this product went viral on TikTok for a reason! It is now my go-to anytime I start to have any itchy, irritated moments on my face and it provides instant relief and healing.

After a few professional spa treatments, I was hooked on the way my skin glowed and minor eye wrinkles faded with regular red light therapy. Looking for a product I could use routinely at home, I tried a bunch of other masks on the market that turned out to be uncomfortable, heavy, and not realistic for daily use. While the lightweight Omnilux mask can be worn while doing things around the house, I’ve found best results when taking a 10-minute timeout lying still. And for those with light sensitive eyes, protective covers can be requested through their website for $20, providing a more comfortable experience.

A sunscreen that goes on like a serum? Sign me up. This is another example of a product that feels so good to put on that you forget it’s also a sunscreen. While I might opt for a heavier mineral SPF for longer, more intense sun exposure, The Bod Guard is perfect for daily use, midday re-application, and on-the-go protection. Bonus? It provides intense 72-hour hydration, helps even skin tone, and doesn’t clog pores—not to mention it has a fresh “sea salt” fragrance that isn’t overpowering. 

Never leave the house without a hat. Whether you’re walking down to the raised beds or going out on a river raft, headgear is a must when trying to save your skin in the long run. I love the wide-brim styles by the brand Lack of Color, which not only provide extra shade but are also a stylish neutral choice for every outdoor adventure.

This is another “the internet made me do it” purchase that turned into a “how did I ever live without this.” I’m now a devout serum user from head to toe. Not only does it absorb quickly with an elegant sheen, it erases crepe-y skin and keeps dry spots hydrated for hours… not to mention the delicate sandalwood fragrance has people stopping to ask what perfume I’m wearing.