As someone with dry and sensitive skin, I’m particular about what I put on my face. Since just about anything can break me out, I always run new products through an online checker to analyze the ingredient list and understand how it might interact with my skin. In my years of doing this, rarely does an entire brand pass this test.
Indeed Labs did.
The company started in 2010, when president and CEO Dimitria Davidson identified a need for affordable, honest, and effective skincare. Their brand is science-forward, listing all ingredients and explanations for everything on their site, and places a high value on sustainability. Their products are free from many things, like cruelty, fragrance, parabens, and colorants, to name a few, and this is proudly displayed on the side of every package.
The Hydraluron Moisture Jelly is packed with ingredients like fan-favorite hyaluronic acid and PatcH2O, which quenches skin’s thirst and helps to restore the skin barrier. If you’re used to a thicker cream, the jelly feels very lightweight. It goes on a bit sticky at first but evens out into a sheer glow within minutes, leaving skin feeling bouncy and plump.
Because of the thin texture, I like using it in the morning under sunscreen. I also love the top pump applicator because it’s more hygienic and dispenses the perfect amount of product every time. You can even add a few drops of Nanobronze to the jelly for a bronzy, sun-kissed finish.
Retinol is the holy grail for anti-aging, and Indeed Labs has two retinol products: a Retinol Reface face cream and a Retinol Reface Eye Cream, the latter of which is specially formulated to be used in the delicate under-eye area. However, they also have these Bakuchiol Reface Pads, which piqued my interest. Bakuchiol is an antioxidant sourced from the purple Babchi plant, and it’s known as a gentler alternative to retinol since it promotes collagen production, helps with wrinkles, and reduces acne without the harsh side effects of retinol. Sensitivity is still possible — when I swiped the pad over my face, it did sting a bit. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing, and I’ll probably continue using bakuchiol 3 times a week until the irritation completely goes away. Only then is it okay to use daily. It’s too early to tell about the long-term effects of using this product, but my skin did feel extra smooth and firm the next morning. It’s also safe to use the Bakuchiol Reface Pads with any retinol products, in case you’re worried about mixing actives.
Rounding out the collection is the viral Nanoblur. Popularized by MUAs and Tik-Tokers and blurring the line between skincare and makeup, I was most curious about this product. Its star ingredient is a “Nano-Optic Prism Complex,” which contains a high elastomer content to filter and soften skin.
When I layered the Nanoblur over my sunscreen, it minimized the appearance of my pores and evened out my complexion, giving my skin a silky, slightly matte finish. It’s not a miracle product, so some of my natural texture still showed through. This was fine with me, but keep this in mind if you’re looking for something more full coverage. I would compare it to wearing tinted moisturizer or pressed powder, but I preferred Nanoblur because I hate makeup rubbing off on my hands and clothes. This product is clear, so there’s no mess, and the tube is small enough to throw into a purse to combat oiliness on the go.
Overall, I enjoyed Indeed Labs’ skincare line and felt that their products lived up to their descriptions. I’m happy to report that nothing broke me out, despite my sensitive skin’s tense relationship with all skincare. I’ll consider that a win.
Indeed Labs’ products range from $15-30. Shop for them here.
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