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If I had to choose my favorite TikTok trend of the past five years, Dopamine Menu would definitely be at the top of the list. In the age of social media, where so much negativity comes from endless doom scrolling, users sharing their dopamine menus served as a beacon of light among the hopeless “For You” pages. .
If you haven’t seen the wholesome video yet, the Dopamine Menu trend encourages people to list the things that make them happy. This list will serve as a resource to turn to in difficult moments. Whether it’s a soothing movie, a fun meal, or your favorite activity, a dopamine menu is a great coping mechanism to combat negative emotions. Self-care is one of the best ways to break out of a rut. So, to boost your ever-growing dopamine menu, our editors have shared their go-to products and rituals for finding happiness during difficult times.
Brittany Burhop Fallon, Director of Beauty
“Etienne Ortega launched this year’s Ether Glow Balm ($28), which is kind of my own little hype, but in makeup form. I use it as an eyeshadow and highlight all summer long. I did, but I plan on continuing to use it even in the colder months.I love all the shades, but I think Sunset Bliss is my favorite.
Under eye patches are also on my dopamine menu. I’ve been swollen every morning lately because I haven’t been eating very well, but when I take off my well-made eyepatch and look like a new person (well-rested and well-fed), I’m very happy. . I recently tried ESW Beauty’s Matcha and Chai ($6) and loved it. These are also my two favorite “coffee” drinks.
I also love the return of press-on nails (and the big glow-up). Unfortunately, I don’t have two kids and no time, so I don’t spend two hours getting almond-shaped extensions or nail art done at a nail salon, but when I want to look a little fancy, I can do it in 15 minutes at home, which is fun. is. It instantly changes my whole impression. Lately, I’ve been loving imPRESS Nails ($13 each) and KISS Classy Collection ($8) in collaboration with Kate Spade. ”
Liz Ritter, Editor-in-Chief
“I was recently introduced to FLEWD Bath Soaks ($32 for 4) and lo and behold, they’re good! They promise to help with anxiety, stress, insomnia, and more, and honestly… I can say that the long soak gave me the longest sleep I’ve had in weeks.”
Buy now – 4 for $32
Tatiana Bido, Aesthetic Content Manager
“My Sunday night routine concludes with my favorite products that help me relax and avoid the Sunday dreads. I start by muting my messages, watching Netflix (like ‘Love Is Blind’) and Set the tone. Next, reach for the Tarika Reusable Eye Patches ($70) to refresh your under-eye area and the Canary Hi-Tech Self-Repair CBD Serum ($95), which is great for soothing skin. To boost my mood, I take Grande Ashwagandha gummies to help with stress management.
Since I’ve lost weight, I’ve been focusing on keeping my skin firm, so I use Rendaba Body Cream ($62) with retinol. For hair-loving moments, I love the Jupiter Renewing Scalp Moisturizer ($35), which softens my hair while giving my scalp what it needs. Hydration is important for my dry skin, so I love No7 Menponas Nourishing Overnight Cream ($26) to lock in moisture. Jordan Samuel Skin the Lip Balm ($20) is also in my day and night rotation. Finish off with the Kin Euphorics Dream Light Serenity drink ($69). This is the perfect way to completely relax before you leave. ”
Rowan Lynam, Staff Writer
“First, Saltaire Dry Body Oil in Golden Hour ($22). It smells like late summer to me, and I love how it absorbs easily into the skin, leaving it rich and hydrated. Second, Grace and Stella Eye Mask ($22) Literally every version is great. I’m a big fan of the Restoration Eye Mask. Plus, if you’re feeling really special, Byroe Tea. I also use the Time Peach and Kombucha Tea Purifying Mask ($70), which tightens my pores and leaves my skin super soft and hydrated.Honestly, sleep is my most sacred beauty ritual and my best sleep ever. I do two things to get this: I use a TheraICE sleep mask ($25), and I drink chamomile tea with honey and lemon. It’s a surefire recipe for sleepy time.”
Isabel Buneo, Editorial Assistant
“I’ve been through the ages of skin care treatments, and the best home tool I’ve used is Althaea Skin from Dr. Ava Shamban’s CARA Multimodal Tool Kit ($350). This kit contains super moisturizing actives. It comes with a mask, and this tool is equipped with red light, blue light, and microcurrent technology to help clear your skin and restore its youthful appearance.You’ll notice a huge difference every time you use it. .
I love overnight masks when I’m really tired and don’t have the energy to do a full mask session. Lately I’ve been using Environ’s Trio Bio-Botanical Revival Masque ($90). Since I started using this, I’ve been getting compliments on how much more radiant my skin has become, and I can see it myself. For me, doing something indulgent is a great way to evoke joy, so when I need a pick-me-up, I reach for anything from the Shiseido Future Solutions LX collection. Between the active ingredients and scent profile, it’s like a mini spa treatment. .
