I was lucky enough to get the complete collection at launch but given the brand’s propensity to sell out, I’ve been precious with my stash for fear of running out. Each product was carefully rationed, designated for days when my skin appeared particularly parched or if an event called for extra dewiness. But after a month of conservative use, I’ve given in to a Rhode-only moisturizing routine.

The products are nothing spectacular yet they’re perfect. In fact, they’re exactly what they claim to be and do precisely what they promise (a rarity in this industry). Rhode wants you hydrated and dewy; nothing more, nothing less. (After all: the line isn’t meant to be active, but rather, made for balance and maintenance.) Think skin care over transformation—a kind of beautiful place to be, especially when we’re figuring out how to exist in a society so focused on perfection.

The TL;DR: everything about the brand is exquisite. The formulas are beautiful, the packaging is as aesthetically pleasing as it is conducive to daily use (plus travel!), and the price point for the quality? Incredible. (Celeb beauty brand founders, take note: this is how you make one of everything really good.)

PEPTIDE LIP TREATMENT

Salted Caramel Balm, $16

Rhode Peptide Lip Treatment is proof that not all balms are created equal. It’s the stuff (and scent!) of dreams: comfy, delicious, and just one squeeze gives lips a plump, pillowy look. The shine lasts for hours surprisingly, and even after a hot cup of coffee (lips to lid, not straw), the cushiony softness never goes away. Press your lips together midday and you’ll still feel that plushness; it’s addictive.

The texture is lovely, truly. And because I was blessed enough to get my hands on the limited-edition Vanilla Cake flavor (which launched for Hailey’s birthday), I’m finally using my Salted Caramel tube without restraint.

BARRIER RESTORE CREAM

Rich Moisturizer, $29

Barrier-protecting moisturizers are launching left and right with the popularization of the Korean approach to skincare—and there are plenty of good ones out there. Simplicity makes the concept easy to dupe but the texture of Rhode Barrier Restore Cream is why it’s a standout of the ones I’ve used so far. As someone with dehydrated, combo-oily skin, most restorative formulas tend to elicit fear of congestion; this one does none of it.

It’s a gorgeous midweight cream: rich for plenty of moisture, yet light enough for blendability and instant replenishment without the heaviness. Similar to the lip treatment, this moisturizer is just super smoothing and comfy on skin. You’re left with a velvety, supple finish that brings life back into your complexion.

PEPTIDE GLAZING FLUID

Hydrating Gel Serum, $29

I know this is the hero of the collection, but of the three products, Peptide Glazing Fluid is the one I think you could do without if budget is a concern. This isn’t to say it’s not good, because it is: the other two formulas are just particularly well-executed essentials. Serums are always an extra: great and potentially game-changing to have, but certainly not necessary.

That said: the texture of and results from Peptide Glazing Fluid are what I wanted from other hydrating serums that pre-date this launch (from both masstige and luxe brands). A few pumps immediately replenish while visibly plumping and smoothing—truly giving skin that glazed look without a drop of silicone or light-reflecting agents. You’re left with a bit of bounce and a soft, dewy sheen, and while the finish doesn’t last the way a makeup product would (it’s not designed to), this serum lends a softness that doesn’t just wash away after a day of wear.

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Join the waitlist, here.

xx