The December '24 issue is finally here!

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Dive into honest, in-depth reviews on the latest products, trends, and topics that matter to you. Whether you’re looking for the best in beauty, lifestyle, or beyond, we’ve got you covered. Explore, discover, and make informed choices with reviewsbyrae—your go-to guide for everything worth knowing.

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Battling Dry Scalp and Dandruff? Here’s What Finally Worked for Me

Do you struggle with a dry scalp or dandruff? I know I do, and finding the right dandruff shampoo has been key. I’ve tried almost every option out there—both name-brand and generic—including Selsun Blue, Head & Shoulders, Nizoral, and even some with tea tree oil....

Benefit Cosmetics: The Brow Authority

When it comes to brow products, Benefit Cosmetics reigns supreme. It’s no easy feat to continually innovate in the brow market, but Benefit has mastered the art of delivering consistent quality, even with each new release. Their expertise in brow products is...

Eye Cream Essentials Tips, Trials, and Top Picks

The post discusses eye creams, emphasizing the necessity of consistent use to see benefits like reducing dark circles and firming skin. The author prefers lightweight formulas to avoid milia and highlights favorites like Black Tea Advanced Age Renewal and Minéral 89 Eye Gel. A new product of interest is the affordable Yerba Mate Wake Up Eye Gel.

Lash Lessons

This mascara convinced me of the power of waterproof formulas, though I eventually stopped using it because it made my inner corner lashes grow unexpectedly long. Before trying GrandeLash Mascara, I wasn’t a fan of waterproof mascara—I disliked the extra effort...

All About the Brows

The ELF Ultra Precise Brow Pencil is my top pick for an affordable brow pencil. At just $6, it's one of the few automatic brow pencils left under $10, which means no sharpening required! It’s super accessible and available at nearly any retailer. Personally, I prefer...

The Surprising Savior: Why Snail Mucin Works Against All Odds

I started using the Cosrx Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence sometime in 2022, though it might have been even earlier (I can't find the receipts to confirm!). Before discovering this essence, I relied on hyaluronic acid serums from The Ordinary and Good Molecules,...

Luxury Letdown: Why I’m Done with Greasy High-End Sunscreens

There was a time when I became obsessed with trying high-end beauty products, thanks to my employee discount at Ulta Beauty. But these days, my focus has shifted to finding quality products at more affordable price points. I last reviewed this sunscreen in the May...

Clay Masks Unmasked

Clay masks are primarily designed to absorb excess oils from the skin, which can provide a temporary matte effect and a smoother surface, but they don’t offer long-lasting results. Although I’ve used many clay masks—currently working through a Peach & Lily mask—I...

Acure Radically Rejuvenating Whipped Night Cream: A Hidden Gem?

When I worked at Ulta, Acure was a brand that never really caught my eye. It wasn’t something I thought I’d try, let alone be impressed by. However, my curiosity was piqued when I received a sample of the Acure Radically Rejuvenating Whipped Night Cream as a gift with...

Beautycounter Think Big All in One Mascara: Overpriced and Underwhelming

Beautycounter is another brand that doesn't justify its high price tags. Historically linked to MLM practices, the brand has now transitioned to retail, distancing itself from the controversial pyramid scheme model. But even with this shift, the quality of their...

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