Which Drunk Elephant skin care product is best?

Drunk Elephant is a vegan, cruelty-free beauty brand dedicated to all-natural, pH-balanced skin care. Though more expensive than average skin care, it can leave a long-lasting, positive effect on skin. The philosophy of this brand is that when you strip products of six specific harmful chemicals and fragrances, you’re left with balanced formulas that help perfect the look of skin in the present while providing anti-aging effects over time.

If you are looking for an all-natural, age-defying moisturizer with vital nutrients and proteins that replenish the skin, the Protini Polypeptide Cream is the top choice.

What to know before you buy a Drunk Elephant skin care product

Ingredients

One of the most important things to consider when purchasing a product that will be directly applied to your skin is the ingredients. Located on the side of the packaging, the ingredients will tell users if the product contains chemicals or substances that won’t benefit their skin type. Drunk Elephant is very transparent about the ingredients used in its products and does its best to formulate them without chemicals and skin-harming ingredients such as parabens, sulfates, fragrances and SLS. It’s still a good idea to be aware of each ingredient going on your skin.

Formulas

Products formulated as creams will typically be oil-based. These products tend to provide a smooth application but take longer to absorb into the skin. Depending on the ingredients, they are extensively moisturizing and can benefit those needing to repair dry or damaged skin. These products can leave streaks and are usually white.

Water-based products are typically lighter and safer for use on oily and combination skin types. This type of product has less chance of clogged pores and build-up on the skin; however, it does not deeply moisturize as well as a product that uses a creamy formula. These products are typically colorless and absorb quickly into the skin while hydrating.

Skin type

Purchasing the right product and formula for your skin type will ensure that your skin remains hydrated as needed. People with dry skin should consider a cream formula. When applied to dry skin, this formula will deeply hydrate. Lightweight water-based formulas may not moisturize as effectively if a user has extra dry skin.

People with oily skin should consider an oil-free, lightweight, water-based skin care product. This will lessen the chances of the pores getting clogged and the skin looking extra shiny. If you have oily skin, avoid heavy products containing many oils.

It’s trickier for people with combination skin types to find products that match their needs. This skin type does well with hydrating formulas that are oil-free. Users with this skin type will experience oil in their T-zone (forehead, nose and chin) and can use different types of formulas accordingly. To find the right product for you, test a few different formulas.

Those with sensitive skin should avoid chemical fragrances. Drunk Elephant doesn’t use sulfates or parabens in its products, making them safer for use on sensitive skin and less likely to cause irritation. If a product is particularly good for sensitive skin, it will likely be mentioned in the product description.

What to look for in a quality Drunk Elephant skin care product

Cruelty-free

Most brands have adopted a more natural, eco-friendly way of life, including a reduction of animal testing on products. Just because a product claims to be natural and organic does not mean it is cruelty-free. Drunk Elephant has run an entirely vegan and cruelty-free operation since opening their doors in 2013. To make sure an item is not tested on animals, look for a PETA-approved bunny, a leaping bunny, or the words “not tested on animals” directly on the packaging.

Mission

Drunk Elephant is committed to using only ingredients that directly benefit the skin’s health. They source ingredients based on biocompatibility, meaning the product is effective without affecting the skin’s physiology and causing a negative reaction. Drunk Elephant uses an ingredient elimination philosophy. Less is more for the maximum results in skin care. They run a campaign called #BareWithUs where users can post selfies of themselves after using their Drunk Elephant skin products to promote confidence in one’s own skin and beauty. A few of their products directly support the International Elephant Foundation.

Skin smoothies

Skin smoothies are unique to the Drunk Elephant brand. A skin smoothie is a specific skin care routine put together by the experts at Drunk Elephant to aid whatever skin problems you’re trying to target. This idea got its smoothie name because you add ingredients to a smoothie to benefit specific regions of heath, just as you should do for your skin. Each different skin smoothie has a different purpose.

Because the products are silicone-free and biocompatible, they mix easily and absorb into the skin. The only product in a skin smoothie that does not absorb into the skin is its sunscreen, as the zinc used sits on the face as a protective barrier against the sun. In the skin smoothie glossary section of the Drunk Elephant website, users can find out what products mix and for what purpose.

How much you can expect to spend on Drunk Elephant skin care products

Drunk Elephant products range in price depending on the quantity and ingredients of the products. You can find less-expensive skin care products for around $18, midrange products for $40, and high-end products with added benefits for your skin for around $140.

Drunk Elephant skin care products FAQ

How do I know when these products expire?

A. On the bottom or the side of the products container there will be a small jar graphic. Inside this jar will be a number. That number will specify the time that the product can be used effectively before the ingredients expire. For example, if the product that you purchase says 12 inside of the jar graphic, that means that the product expires after 12 months and should no longer be used. You can also find the expiration date in the product FAQ on the website listing.

How do I know how much I am paying per ounce for the product?

A. To know how much money you’re paying per ounce and to discover if it is a good deal, divide the price by the number of ounces the product contains. For example, if a product is $40 and it is four ounces, then you are paying $10 per ounce of the product. This is important to know when comparing the product to similar products when trying to find the best deal.

What’s the best Drunk Elephant skin care product to buy?

Top Drunk Elephant skin care product

Protini Polypeptide Cream

What you need to know: Protini’s formula restores skin and provides a youthful appearance. It reduces signs of aging, fine lines and sun damage.

What you’ll love: This product contains an abundance of proteins and nutrients to replenish the skin barrier and is formulated at a 4.0 pH. Its 100% free of essential oils, silicones and fragrances, and it’s vegan and cruelty-free with proceeds supporting the International Elephant Foundation.

What you should consider: It’s difficult to get the cream out of the dispenser for some users.

Top Drunk Elephant skin care product for the money

Lippe Balm

What you need to know: This product contains an antioxidant-rich blend of avocado and mongongo nut oils, tripeptide and sea fern algae. The formula is buttery and absorbs while leaving a lasting shine.

What you’ll love: This product plumps while providing hydration to the lips and softens coarse lips with vitamin C and green tea extracts. You can use this product under your eyes to prevent crows’ feet and soften the cuticles.

What you should consider: There isn’t much product for the money, and it runs out quickly.

Worth checking out

A-Passioni Retinol Cream

What you need to know: This product uses retinol and peptides to restore bounce within the skin and brighten it. It evens the skin tone without causing redness and irritation and improves the skin’s texture.

What you’ll love: The ingredients replenish essential lipids and moisture while antioxidants fight environmental stressors. This formula is lightweight, and proceeds benefit the International Elephant Foundation.

What you should consider: In rare cases, this product has been known to cause burning on those with extra-dry skin.

Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.

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Which cocktail smokers are best?

Previously, homemade cocktails were basic and didn’t have much flair beyond an orange slice or two. Forget about tasting a smoked cocktail! You could only get those made from a fancy mixologist at a high-end bar uptown. However, with the sudden surge of homebrewers and increased interest in creating the perfect drink, cocktail smokers have become more accessible to meet the demand.

The best smokers, like the Breville Polyscience Gun Pro Smoke Infuser, are made with high-quality materials that ensure the perfect smoked cocktail but are also easy enough for a beginner to use.

What to know before you buy a cocktail smoker

Aesthetics

Making a cocktail is about the flair as much as it is about the flavor. You tend to appreciate the drink more when you watch the bartender flip bottles behind them in the air and light your drink on fire.

In regards to smoked cocktails, the smoker plays a vital role in maintaining the aesthetics. Consider if the smoker is for your eyes only or if you plan on entertaining guests at a party or outdoor get-together. Some cocktail smoker kits available tend to look like they’re haphazardly put together and may ruin a great ambiance. While that’s perfectly fine when you’re creating your own smoked drinks, a nice smoker serves to make you and the drinks you serve look that much more remarkable.

Wood chips

There is a seemingly limitless list of options regarding what you can use to smoke your cocktail. Some excellent types of wood include mesquite, apple and cherry, but you can also use herbs, like rosemary and thyme, to enhance your drink.

For example, after putting on a show with your best cocktail shaker, you can use your smoker to infuse cinnamon bark and sage into the drink to leave a lasting impression.

Drink types

The most common smoked cocktails tend to be whiskey-based because of how their aging process compliments a smoky flavor. Similar to how you’re not limited to using wood chips in a smoker, you can also enhance cocktails with various base liquors.

For example, a smoked old-fashioned is a favorite among home mixologists, but you’ll find that smoking martinis and even mojitos can take those cocktails to the next level.

What to look for in a quality cocktail smoker

Kit

Whether you’re a seasoned mixologist or a budding home cocktail enthusiast, it’s much easier to purchase a smoker that comes with all the necessary accessories. In fact, it may be beneficial to start with a smoker kit that comes with the wood chips, a dome and a board so that you’re ready to go the second it arrives. It can be incredibly frustrating to start making your favorite drink only to find that you forgot to purchase smoke screens.

Getting a kit allows you to get a feel for your smoker and determine if you require upgraded accessories. That can include a larger or customized glass dome or a tray full of various herbs and types of wood.

Size

Most cocktail smokers you find are compact handheld devices. This makes them more portable, so you can impress your family and friends at their house party or create delicious smoked cocktails in the great outdoors.

However, some cocktail smokers are quite large and require an abundance of additional equipment compared to handheld versions. Consider where you’ll be using your smoker and if a smaller handheld device is enough for your smoking needs or if you need a more powerful device.

Power

Consider how often you plan on using your cocktail smoker to determine which power source would best suit your needs. For example, if you plan on using it for large parties, a battery-powered smoker is advantageous.

However, if you plan on mixing a few drinks at a time, a rechargeable smoker that uses a USB cable port and can be plugged into an outlet is more than sufficient.

How much you can expect to spend on cocktail smokers

Depending on the quality and items included, you can expect to spend between $80-$150 on a quality cocktail smoker.

Cocktail smoker FAQ

How long does a tin of wood chips last?

A. That entirely depends on how often you use your cocktail smoker. Most standard-size tins of wood chips can last several months because you only require a small pinch each time.

Are cocktail smokers safe?

A. Cocktail smokers are safe as long as you follow the manufacturer’s instructions. The only issues arise when you forget to put out the wood chips before throwing them away. Similar to camping, the wood chips must be completely put out. A single spark can cause more problems than you bargained for. Additionally, when lighting the smoker, ensure that it’s lit in a well-ventilated area. You don’t want to inhale accumulated smoke continuously.

What are the best cocktail smokers to buy?

Top cocktail smoker

Breville Polyscience Gun Pro Smoke Infuser

What you need to know: Breville presents a smoke infuser that’s high-quality enough for professional use and intuitive enough for beginners.

What you’ll love: This smoker allows you to get the exact smoke flavor profile you need by allowing you to control the airflow and smoke intensity with a smooth dial. It also comes with a built-in stand that you can use to keep your smoker in place while making other drinks. There’s no need to go out and purchase additional supplies because it comes with an extender hose, batteries and additional smoke screens to help with clogging. You can also remove the chamber and barrel for a quick and easy machine wash.

What you should consider: It includes sample kits, but it would be nice if it had an entire bag of wood chips. While it works great on cocktails, it’s not the best option to smoke meat.

Top cocktail smoker for the money

MITBAK Cocktail Smoker Kit

What you need to know: MITBAK presents a high-quality smoker complete with a kit at an affordable price.

What you’ll love: This cocktail smoker kit comes with everything you need, including the all-important infuser, wood chips, a lid and a charger cable. It’s beginner-friendly, so it’s intuitive to use. While it’s cheaper than its competitors, the quality makes it rank among some of the best.

What you should consider: The dome may be too low for high balls or other taller glasses.

Worth checking out

Smoke Board Smoked Cocktail Kit

What you need to know: Be the center of attention at your next party or create delicious smoked cocktails with the compact and portable Smoke Board Cocktail Kit.

What you’ll love: This compact kit comes with various wood chips, like pecan, apple and cherry, to help you create drool-worthy cocktails. It also has an oak smoking board to safely burn your wood chips and a glass Mason jar to contain all the smoke. This is an extremely versatile smoking kit because it’s not only effective for cocktails but also deeply infuses the flavor in deli meats, cheeses and more.

What you should consider: You must purchase the butane gas can separately.

Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.

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Metro Transit has debuted plans to increase its public transit services throughout the Twin Cities by 35% through the year 2027, largely by adding 20 new bus routes, expanding service on 65 existing routes and rolling out light rail trains every 10 minutes.

Plans call for on-demand mini-buses to provide shared-ride, “micro-transit” pick-up services in eight suburban communities, with the goal of improving links to traditional public transit. A two-year pilot program in North Minneapolis will be made permanent in October, with the goal of adding at least two new zones each year through 2027.

Those and other service improvements will be made possible by a .75 cent regional sales tax that took effect across the Twin Cities last October.

The tax, authorized by the Minnesota Legislature, is split 17% among the region’s counties and 83% to the Metropolitan Council, the seven-county metro’s regional planning agency. By statute, the majority of the Met Council’s sales tax proceeds are dedicated toward transit operations, maintenance and capital projects, though 5% goes toward walking, biking and other active transportation.

‘Network Now’

The Met Council, the 17-member appointed board overseeing Metro Transit, voted Wednesday to release the draft “Network Now” expansion plan for public comment through Nov. 15. The goal is to grow ridership, expand job access and better meet the region’s changing mobility needs, said transit authority officials in a written statement. That includes increasing the number of jobs accessible within a 45 minute public transit trip by 25%.

The expectation is that following staff revisions, the Met Council will adopt the plan in early 2025.

Metro Transit has been gradually expanding service as more operators and support staff are hired, and officials see a direct link with ridership growth. Through the end of July, ridership has increased about 9% compared to last year. Average weekday ridership is 142,067.

No frequency changes are planned for the Red Line, the bus from Apple Valley to the Mall of America in Bloomington, or the Northstar Commuter Rail. Certain bus routes — such as Route 825 and Route 854 from the Northtown Mall in Blaine to Minneapolis — will be discontinued. Route 261, an express route from the Shoreview Community Center to downtown Minneapolis, will also be discontinued.

Public feedback on the Network Now plan will be sought a variety of ways. The first public meeting will be held on Oct. 1 in Hopkins. For more information, visit metrotransit.org/network-now.

Micro-transit mini-bus shuttles, other proposed changes

Among the proposed changes:

• Four new bus rapid transit services — the Gold Line, B Line, E Line and G Line — and the southwest extension of the Green Line from downtown Minneapolis to Eden Prairie are scheduled to roll out by the end of 2027.

• Green Line and Blue Line light rail trains currently depart about every 12 minutes throughout the day, which would be increased to every 10 minutes under the plan.

• Among the 65 routes that will be expanded, 15 routes would have trips running at least every 15 minutes.

• The new Gold Line bus rapid transit corridor will connect Woodbury and downtown St. Paul by next spring. Micro-transit shuttle mini-buses will offer on-demand, curb-to-curb connections to the Gold Line at four suburban stations. Micro-transit shuttles will also connect to the Orange Line at Interstate 35W and 98th Street Station, and to the future Green Line extension in Minnetonka.

• The Route 54M branch between downtown St. Paul, St. Paul’s East Side and the Maplewood Mall will be replaced by new the Route 58. On weekdays and Saturdays, the route will offer increased frequency, departing every 15 minutes from midday through the evening.

• A new suburban route, Route 204, will replace the existing Route 64N in St. Paul, North St. Paul and Maplewood between the Maplewood Mall Transit Center and the Hillcrest shopping center at Larpenteur Avenue and White Bear Avenue in St. Paul.

• Route 219 will be restructured to operate every 30 minutes, with service extending into the evening, instead of every 60 minutes. It will no longer service Lydia Avenue and McKnight Road in Maplewood, 15th Street and Hadley Avenue in Oakdale, Hudson Boulevard in Landfall and the Sun Ray Transit Center in St. Paul. Instead, the route will be streamlined to operate along White Bear Avenue and County Road E in White Bear Lake, continuing along Minnesota 120/Century Avenue with a new southern terminus at Woodlane Station in Woodbury.

• The new Route 215 will offer alternative service along Lydia Avenue and connect 3M, The Heights (the former Hillcrest golf course), the Maplewood Mall and the Sun Ray Transit Center, where it will meet the Gold Line and other high-frequency bus routes.

• The new Route 221 will service Hadley Avenue in Oakdale and Landfall, connecting Tartan High School, the Bergen Plaza shopping center, Oakdale City Hall and the Greenway Avenue Station in Oakdale, where it will meet the the Gold Line.

• The former Route 223 will be restored by December 2027 along its previous alignment between the Rosedale Transit Center in Roseville and the Maplewood Mall Transit Center in Maplewood.

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