Since launching in 2021, MERIT Beauty has been known for its five-minute facial makeup products, designed to help you get out the door and on with your day as quickly as possible. The brand’s core line – which consists of a complexion stick, a blush balm, a highlight stick, a mascara, a brow gel and a tinted lip oil – has achieved viral fame on TikTok, mainly because it has everything you need to glam yourself up. in less time than it takes to listen to a Taylor Swift song. And now MERIT is working to make your mornings even easier with the introduction of its first-ever skincare product.
The MERIT Great Skin Instant Glow Serum ($38) is a hydrating, two-phase serum that promises a smooth, mirror finish without residue. It’s basically dewy, #cleangirlaesthetic skin in a bottle, and I’m right there with it.
Its key ingredients take two dermatologist favorites: hyaluronic acid (for moisture) plus niacinamide (for brightening) – and combines them with cocoa seed extract, which uses caffeine to boost circulation and provide plumping effects. The fact that the formula is bi-phase means that you need to shake it vigorously before each application, as the components inside the bottle break down when not in use (a bit like salad dressing). Think: two types of products in one.
MERIT encourages using this serum as a makeup base, but it can also be used on its own for a dewy finish. After testing it myself for just over a week, I can confirm that this is a very nice product. It’s hydrating but not greasy, nourishing yet light, and really makes your skin glow. I also like that it is fragrance-free and that it absorbs well into my semi-dried face. Plus, it’s formulated “without acne-causing ingredients,” which is a nice touch. I always keep in mind that my skincare routine does not cause acne. I leave that to my raging hormones.
If packaging plays a role in your purchasing decisions, the heavy (recycled) glass bottle adds a touch of serious luxury to this modestly priced serum (it costs just $38!). However, I do have a problem with the size. While I like the thinner viscosity of the product itself, I don’t like the combination of a liquid product with a pump dispenser… IMO, this serum requires a dropper. The dispenser and liquid combination was quite messy and every time I used it, the product would undoubtedly splash all over my sink, countertops and medicine cabinet mirror.
Don’t let that discourage you from trying, though. It’s been a matter of weeks and already my skin feels hydrated and my makeup wears better. I would recommend this serum to anyone who wants to soften their dull skin while giving it an extra glow.
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