Am I the only one who could wander around a Trader Joe’s for an hour on the weekends? I find myself captivated by their assortment of seasonal offerings, ranging from pumpkin-infused noodles to limoncello pesto and floral arrangements. As a dermatology PA, I also feel compelled to peruse the skincare aisle and experiment with these products.
Here are my reviews of the top 5 skincare products at Trader Joe’s. It is worth noting that these items can also be purchased through Amazon, albeit at a higher price compared to Trader Joe’s physical store, but at least an alternative if you don’t live close to a TJ’s or if they run out of stock on your favorite product.
TJ’s Daily Facial Sunscreen
.png)
The official “dupe” for Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen is Trader Joe’s Daily Facial Sunscreen. It hits the mark for creating a literally invisible sunscreen- the gel is clear right out of the bottle, applies seamlessly and leaves no residue or oil on the skin with a matte finish. Adding to this, the product is a water and sweat resistant for 40 minutes. Not only a good choice for your skin but also your pocketbook.
As with nearly all clear sunscreens, this is categorized as a chemical sunscreen composed of ingredients: Avobenzone 3%, Homosalate 12%, Octisalate 5% and Octocrylene 6%. This may not be a good choice if you are sensitive to chemical sunscreens or are looking to prevent melasma or hyperpigmentation.
Trader Joe’s Pumpkin Overnight Face Mask
.png)
Feeling all things pumpkin spice latte and fall vibes? Try Trader Joe’s fall favorite Pumpkin Overnight Face Mask formulated with pumpkin fruit extract, papaya enzymes and plant-derived squalane. Pumpkin isn’t just a fall favorite but also has added skin benefits for all year long. Pumpkin is rich in nutrients and minerals, while composed of alpha hydroxy acids that help with gentle exfoliation of the skin- leading to glowing, smooth skin. Pumpkin also contains some of our favorite vitamins in skincare: vitamin A and vitamin C. In particular, pumpkin has beta-carotene, a derivate of Vitamin A, that helps with skin renewal, hyperpigmentation and wrinkles. The added benefit of Vitamin C helps fight off skin damage from the sun and free radicals from UV rays, pollution and environmental stressors.
Despite how great these ingredients may be, overuse of any alpha hydroxy acid can lead one to have dry, irritated skin so it is best to keep this mask to once or twice per week at most depending on your skin type. Sensitive skin folks may find the papaya and pumpkin irritating to the skin or may not be able to tolerate leaving the mask on overnight.
Trader Joe’s Zinc Oxide Mineral Sunscreen
.png)
Mid-activity reapplication of sunscreen is always a challenge whether you are at the beach, on a bike ride or at a soccer game. This spray sunscreen is one of my favorite mineral sunscreens spray for busy days outside. Utilizing spray sunscreen for reapplication creates a hassle free experience and saves time so you can get back to fun in the sun. In additional to zinc oxide, the main ingredient for sun block in this product, it also boasts skin soothing ingredients of aloe, grapefruit oil and vitamin E.
As with most mineral sunscreens, this applies as a white lotion and needs to be thoroughly rubbed in to get rid of the white cast. I find it rubs in fairly easy within a couple minutes of application and massage into the skin. However, if you are applying to heavy hair-bearing areas, this might not be your first choice. Unfortunately, as of now this product is only available in stores.
Trader Joe’s Brazil Nut Body Butter
.png)
Another “dupe”, this time for Brazilian Bum Bum Cream is the The Brazil Nut Body Butter by Trader Joe’s. This cream feels luxurious and rich the minute it hits your skin with scents of Acai, Guarana extracts, salted caramel and pistachio in a base of Shea Butter. The experience of applying this moisturizer to your skin instantly teleports you to a seaside beach vacation spot.
It is important to note that individuals with sensitivities to any of these extracts or scents should exercise caution when using this product. For those with sensitive or eczema-prone skin, it is advisable to opt for non-fragranced alternatives to avoid potential irritation and ensure optimal skincare.
Trader Joe’s Nourish Hyaluronic Moisture Boost Serum
.png)
Hyaluronic acid is a simple yet powerhouse ingredient for protecting the skin barrier and locking in the skin’s natural moisture. Trader Joe’s Nourish Hyaluronic Moisture Boost Serum is light, unscented, non-comedogenic and very affordable. This no frills hyaluronic acid serum is best applied to damp skin and followed by a moisturizer. Consider adding this to your routine during winter months when your skin is particularly prone to being dry and irritated by changes in weather.
There aren’t many cons to this skincare product if your goal is moisturization and dewy skin. This unscented, non-comedogenic formula is unlikely to cause irritation to most people’s skin. As with all hyaluronic acid serums, this won’t be addressing common skin concerns like hyperpigmentation, acne or wrinkles.
