One thing TikTok has always been good at is inspiring self-care through beauty and wellness trends that play into aesthetics. Last year, we witnessed the meteoric rise of one of the Pilates princess—someone with a love for matching fitness sets, Stanley cups in limited-edition colors, and days spent doing Pilates on a mat or reformer. As much as Who What Wear beauty editors enjoy keeping a finger on the pulse of these trends, we also love investing in our own self-care, which is why we’re beyond excited to try our hand at TikTok’s viral “dopamine menu” movement.
A trending TikTok audio from a video by content creator Payton Sartain featured in 20.2k post tells us what a dopamine menu is and its purpose. “[It’s] your go-to list of things you can do throughout your day so you don’t default to doomscrolling on social media,” says Sartain as the video shows her lighting a candle as she prepares to sit at a desk. She then introduces the trend as being featured in episode 157 of her podcast Note to Self.
Below, we’re putting a beauty spin on the wholesome idea and offering our favorite products we use to create our personalized dopamine menus.
1. Maya Thomas, Assistant Beauty Editor
Patchology
FlashPatch Rejuvenating Eye Gels
“In recent years, I’ve noticed the gradual appearance of fine lines and dark circles. To help brighten up my under-eye area without booking a facial, I like to treat myself to these high-tech eye patches. They use the advanced HydraSurge5 Moisture System that helps accelerate the delivery of essential, revitalizing ingredients like caffeine and hydrolyzed collagen, which target puffiness around the eyes. I wear these for about 10 minutes and remove them to reveal brighter, younger-looking eyes.”
Customer Review: “Love this product so much! Easy to apply and remove with instant results. Always wake up with super puffy/dry eye bags, and this helps so much! Already want to purchase more.”
Caudalie
Grape Water Moisturizing Face Mist
“Since moving to New York, I’ve noticed my skin has felt a lot drier. In addition to investing in a humidifier and ramping up my daily water intake, I started incorporating Caudalie’s Grape Water Moisturizing Face Mist into my skincare lineup. The mist is formulated with 100% grape water, which has minerals, potassium, and moisturizing polysaccharides. I swear this is the reason my skin has felt so much more plump!”
Customer Review: “Absolutely adore this product! I apply before and after my skincare as well as throughout the day as a good ‘wake me up,’ as it is cooling and refreshing! Definitely the best I have tried thus far.”
Osea
Undaria Cleansing Body Polish
“One of the best things my mother ever instilled in me about bodycare was to make sure I thoroughly exfoliate my skin with a body polish that’s gentle but effective. Lately, I’ve been loving the Undaria Cleaning Body Polish because it has a gel-to-milk formula featuring a blend of algae, sunflower-seed oil, and pumice that smooths away bumpy and uneven texture for a satiny finish.”
Customer Review: “This body cleanser is the best cleansing polish I have ever used! The texture and scent are amazing! I’ve had so many people ask me what perfume I’m wearing, and the only thing I’m wearing is this! It has made my skin so soft and provides gentle exfoliation.”
Borghese
Advanced Fango Active Purifying Mud Mask
“During New York Fashion Week, I was introduced to Broghese’s Advanced Fango Active Purifying Mud Mask, and I can already tell it’s going to be a favorite of mine. The mineral-enriched Tuscan spa treatment helps to clarify and purify the skin using a blend of bentonite clay, sweet almond oil, Siberian ginseng root, and more. Now, it’s a must for my late-night spa sessions in the comfort of my own home.”
Customer Review: “I just ordered this once again because I love it and use it often. It’s gentle enough on my sensitive skin yet helps clear my pores and gives my skin such a glow. Love it!”
Esker
Aromatic Shower Steamer & Marble Holder
“One of the ways I like to wind down at the end of a long day is by hopping in the shower and washing away the grit and grime of the city. Because I no longer have a bathtub at my disposal, I like to transform my shower into a relaxing experience with the help of this aromatic shower steamer and marble holder by Esker. The set comes with Eucalyptus Lavender and Calendula Palo Santo shower tablets that can be placed in the elegant, hand-carved marble holder.”
Customer Review: “I’m in love with this product. It’s a fantastic way to make the shower enjoyable, aromatic and spa-like without the whole mess of having a shower steamer in the floor. I think the marble holder is incredibly elegant and high quality.”
Chantecaille
Bio Lifting Mask+
“Clearly, I have a thing for masks, but I would be doing you a disservice if I didn’t mention this one by Chantecaille. While the hefty price tag for this luxury skincare product can be daunting, the anti-aging Bio Lifting Mask+ delivers everything it promises by using a blend of nourishing botanicals to reduce the appearance of fine lines and create the illusion of firmer, tighter skin. Yeah, it’s worth the price.”
Customer Review: “I can’t believe how well this product hydrates and smoothes out my skin. I have tried a lot of products, and this is an absolute winner. My eczema-prone skin loves it!”
2. Kaitlyn McLintock, Associate Beauty Editor
Laneige
Lip Glowy Balm in Mango
“There’s something about the bright, citrusy scent of mango that makes me feel happy and wide-awake, which is why I always keep this glossy lip balm nearby. It never fails to put a little pep in my step.”
Customer Review: “The mango scent is refreshing and delightful without being overpowering. I love how it makes my lips feel soft, smooth, and glossy with a healthy, natural-looking shine.”
Ziip
Halo Microcurrent Facial Toning Device
“I usually reserve any luxe skincare products or devices for evening use, which is when I have more time to indulge in some self-care. However, I make an exception for the Ziip Halo Device. It uses microcurrent and nanocurrent to offer a ton of skin benefits, including lifting, toning, tightening, brightening, and smoothing. When I use it in the morning, I feel like my skin just looks better throughout the day. As a beauty editor, that puts me in a good mood.”
Customer Review: “I love everything about this product. I started seeing results within a week. Finally, a product that lives up its claims.”
Phlur
Mini Coconut Skin Body & Hair Fragrance Mist
“I’m confident my fellow beauty editors would agree that scent has the power to shift one’s mood. Sometimes, all it takes is a spritz of one of my favorite perfumes to feel refreshed. Lately, I’ve been loving this body and hair mist. With notes of coconut, frangipani, and salted amber, it makes me feel all the warm and cozy autumn vibes.”
Customer Review: “I’m absolutely obsessed with Coconut Skin! The scent is so dreamy. It starts with a fresh hit of coconut followed by a sweet touch of caramel gelato. It’s become my go-to fragrance, and I can’t get enough of it. Totally recommend giving it a try!”
Inside Then Out
Dig Deeper Journal
“I love this journal so much. Each page features a thought-provoking prompt to help you get to know yourself on a deeper level. It only takes me about 10 minutes every morning, but it centers me and sets me up for success for the rest of the day. I like knowing I took some time out of my busy morning to care for my mental and emotional health.”
Customer Review: “My new favorite journal! I love journaling, but sometimes, I just want to put my mind on autopilot and have really insightful prompts to respond to. This journal is perfect for that, amazing quality. I’m truly so in love!”
Nespresso
Lattissima One Original Espresso Machine With Milk Frother
“Going on a cute little coffee run is one of the greatest, albeit simplest, joys in my life, but it’s not realistic to do that daily because I’ll spend too much money each week, and it’s time-consuming. That’s why I bought this espresso machine early last year. It creates the smoothest, most robust coffee I’ve ever made at home, and it even has a frothing attachment to create lattes and cappuccinos. It saves me money, caffeinates me, and just helps me start each day on a better foot because I enjoy it so much. It might sound weird, but it is my morning self-care routine’s first and most important step.”
Customer Review: “Love this little all-in-one espresso machine. Purchased a separate frother for my cold milk drinks. [The] built in warm milk frother makes perfect steamed milk and very dense froth and espresso at the touch of a button.”
3. Shawna Hudson, Associate Beauty Editor
HigherDose
Serotonin Soak
“I’m such a bath person, and this magnesium-rich soak from HigherDose is just the ticket. I always feel so relaxed after a good soak and like I’ve released any negative or stressful energy from the week.”
Customer Review: “I’ve been loving these bath salts for the ultimate luxurious bath time experience! They help ease stress, relax sore muscles, and make my skin feel super soft. Such a self-care treat.”
Osea
Salts of the Earth Body Scrub
“I love an everything shower, and on days I do one, I always reach for this luxurious body scrub from Osea. It has such a nice, light, natural scent and is so gentle on your skin.”
Customer Review: “This is one of the most gentle scrubs I’ve used, and it leaves my skin so soft. I would definitely recommend it for people with sensitive skin. I will definitely purchase it again.”
Carter + Jane
Surfer Girl Oil Butter
“I’m obsessed with this butter from Carter + Jane. It gives your skin such a serious glow with an array of super hydrators and essential oils, including Australian blue tansy, lemongrass, bergamot, and rosewood. It feels and smells like a luxury spa, bottled.”
Customer Review: “I love everything about this new product. The smell is so fresh and takes me right to my favorite Maui beach. The consistency is wonderful and soaks right in. My skin stays hydrated longer than using regular lotions. Try it! You won’t be disappointed.”
Luzern
Alpine Rose Nectar Masque
“The way this mask makes my skin sparkle. Anytime I could use a serious hydration boost and pick-me-up, I reach for this hydrating and rejuvenating mask from Luzern with alpine rose and crushed ruby powder.”
Customer Review: “Love it! I can’t say enough wonderful things about this masque. I have really sensitive skin, and it’s soothing and leaves my skin feeling moisturized. It’s one of my favorite products!”
Canopy
Bedside Humidifier
“This is my all-time favorite humidifier because it comes with filters and isn’t too misty, and you can use it as an essential oil diffuser. There are so many good aromas to choose from, and I love to run this in the evening to fully relax while I read a good book.”
Customer Review: “Works great! Love how easy it is to clean and to replace the filter. Love that it has the filter subscription so I don’t have to remember when to replace it. I feel a huge difference with my sinus congestion in the morning.”
HigherDose
Infared PEMF Mat
“I recently reviewed this PEMF mat and have used it almost every day since then. If you’ve never tried PEMF therapy, I highly recommend it for stress support and general relaxation. The infrared heat also helps with workout recovery.”
Customer Review: “I cannot overstate how much my infrared mat has helped me. I am working on regulating my nervous system, and this is a game changer. It has made a huge difference in how I feel day to day, and I love the deep relaxation I can achieve on this mat.”
Lux Unfiltered
N°12 Self Tanning Face Drops
“Sometimes, I waffle about putting self-tan on because—let’s face it—it’s a lot of work, but every time I do, I feel so much more fresh and alive after. These face drops are the easiest way to tan my face. I just apply it post-moisturizer before I go to sleep and wake up with a subtle, healthy glow.”
Customer Review: “Easy and effortless. It’s hard to mess this up. Apply at night + skip any exfoliating products that night. Gives a beautiful subtle glow for the skin-first girlies. Wash your hands after.”
Bioadance
Bio-Collagen Real Deep Mask
“I don’t know about you, but I save my face masks for when I actually have time to enjoy them. They go hand in hand with a cozy Friday night consisting of takeout and a good rom-com. These viral BioDance collagen masks are my personal favorite.”
Customer Review: “Kept seeing this style mask on TikTok and finally gave in. I get so many compliments after using. It leaves my skin feeling plump and wrinkle free for up to a week after use. No weird smell or residue after taking it off. The mask is a little delicate when taking it out of the package but otherwise stays on really well. 10/10 recommend.”
L’Occitane
Smoothing and Firming Almond Supple Skin Body Oil
“Now that we’re in the -ber months, I’ve been swapping my shower products for warmer, spicier scents. After all, there’s truly nothing better than taking a hot shower, applying a yummy and hydrating body oil, and getting into fresh pj’s.”
Customer Review: “After a sample of their shower oil, I HAD to try this skin oil and already obsessed. The scent is divine, and my skin feels luxurious. A forever product.”
5. Jamie Schneider, Senior Beauty Editor
Therabody
TheraFace Depuffing Wand
“I used this de-puffing tool every day of NYFW, and I can confidently say it was my saving grace for those early call times. I’ve used icy beauty tools before to deflate eye bags, but I didn’t know how ahh-inducing a gentle heat setting would feel on my tired skin. I’m also shocked by how fast you can switch temperatures. It takes literal seconds to switch from tension-melting hot to cool as ice.”
Customer Review: “I’m absolutely in love with this! I love how cold it gets and how amazing my face looks after using the cold in the morning, especially around my eyes. It definitely depuffs. And I use the heat at night before using any product on my face. It’s like a hug for your face. It’s such an awesome must-have.”
Shikohin
Blooming Yomogi Bath Essence
“Mark my words: I will never give up my weekly soaks, even in my NYC rental. I also will never forget to add a few drops of this soothing essence before melting into the tub. It’s heaven.”
Customer Review: “I’ve recommended this product to all my friends. It’s a must-try for anyone who loves quality skincare.”
Diptyque
Lilyphéa Eau de Parfum
“You know what makes me happy? Discovering a new fragrance I can’t wait to spritz in the a.m. I’m currently obsessed with Diptyque’s Lilyphéa from the brand’s just-launched Les Essences de Diptyque collection. Fresh and sweet, it’s such a gorgeous choice as we transition into fall.”
Customer Review: “Delicate herbal/flower, close to the skin scent. Remind me of Herbal Essence (the green shampoo when I was young) in a softer version. A keep for a day when you feel to be surrounded by softness and delicately scented.”
6. Erin Jahns, Beauty Director
Josie Maran
Vanilla Vibezzz Sugar and Argan Oil Body Scrub
Josie Maran
Vanilla Vibezzz Whipped Argan Oil Body Butter
“I can’t live without this epic body combo from Josie Maran, and prior to finally acquiescing to the buzz and trying both formulas, I didn’t even like body scrubs and body butters. The Vanilla Vibezzz scent is unmatched, and together, the scrub and butter deliver the softest, smoothest, dewiest skin imaginable.”
Customer Review: “I love that they came out with refillable pouches! So much more sustainable than buying a full bottle each time. The texture is rich and amazing, and my skin is so soft and glowy after. I’m obsessed and will repurchase!”
Shani Daren Skin Care
Triple Acid Signature Peel
“There are times when my schedule or budget simply won’t allow for a facial, no matter how badly my skin is screaming for some TLC. This at-home peel from renowned facialist Shani Darden takes a total of 12 minutes, but I swear the bright, baby-smooth skin I’m left with is professional caliber! It’s the next best thing to getting a treatment with Darden herself.”
Customer Review: “I love a good chemical peel, and this one exceeded my expectations. Not only is this a great product, you get enough product to do about 8 peels. You do the math! Skin looks so amazing the day after I do a peel. Love, love, love.”
Ceremonia
Guava Hair Repair Mask
“This has recently become my favorite hair masks of all time. It’s rich, it’s incredibly moisturizing, and it smells unbelievably good. I’ll slather it onto damp strands the night before I plan to shampoo my hair, and I swear it’s significantly upped my hair’s shine and smoothness while almost completely eliminating breakage.”
Customer Review: “Left my curls very defined and moisturized. I’ve never seen my hair this healthy or defined. An absolute necessity if you deal with frequent dry hair or tangling.”
Dr Teal’s
Soothe & Sleep Lavender Pure Epsom Bath Salt
“It’s an OG for a reason. Nothing compares to how soothing and relaxing this Epsom salt bath is for the body and the mind. The lavender scent is pure bliss, and I especially love it right before bed.”
Customer Review: “This is my favorite Epsom salt soak. Good after a long day, in the bath with a book and a glass of wine. Especially good when combined with other lavender products like a candle and soap.”
Betus
Natural Crystal Himalayan Salt Wall Lamp
“This might seem random, but spend $15 on this Himalayan salt night light, and thank me later. It creates a soft and relaxing ambiance for a nighttime wind-down or bath.”
Customer Review: “Just get it. Do yourself a favor. This is the most gentle, relaxing, happy night light I have ever had. If does give off more light than expected, but it is so soft that you find you are able to sleep with it on if you want. I do turn it off if I wake in the middle of the night, and sometimes I don’t use it at night. Also, it adds wonderful ambience to any room.”
Nette x Tata Harper
Into the Forest Scented Candle
“Meet the best-smelling candle ever. It’s an epic collab between Tata Harper and Nette, and the notes—from Siberian pine needle to Indonesian patchouli—feel like an escape to a forest fairyland. I’ve made my way through a few now, and I never get sick of it.”
Customer Review: “I’ve used up 4 of these since they first came out and keep one in each room now. It’s an elegant wintery forest fragrance, and I prefer natural scents and ingredients. Synthetic ones annoy me after a while but not this one. This candle combines beauty, effectiveness, clean ingredients for burning. Its scent fills a room well, and I rely on it for relaxing.”
