Bliss was founded in 1996 by Marcia Kilgore, (the brains behind other beauty brands like: Soap & Glory, FitFlop, Soaper Duper & BEAUTY PIE). What started as a small chain of NYC spas helped start the self-care movement that is booming today. Basically, Bliss made it so that getting a spa treatment was no longer accessible to just the rich and famous.
Due to popular demand, the brand soon started offering its cult-favorite products for purchase via catalogue (this was in the days before the Internet). Known for its saucily-named products and gentle-yet-effective formulas, Bliss was a relaxation haven for New Yorkers: It was a place to escape the dramas of daily life and bliss out with a treatment.
Recently, the brand has received a bit of a makeover: Many of the hero products still exist, but have been updated with Instagram-worthy packaging and an attitude adjustment — most notably, Fatgirl Slim, the iconic cellulite treatment got a more body-positive name: "Fabgirl Firm." The brand is also completely cruelty-free and available in mass retailers like Target and Amazon, with prices more affordable than ever (nothing is over $25).
At the end of the day, we're big fans: We can't get enough of the dreamy-hued aesthetic and the clever names. But if you haven't yet given Bliss a go, take a peek at our list of faves and we're sure you'll see something that catches your eye. These are our favorite Bliss products, ranked.
Cover image via @bliss
Image via @bliss
This non-abrasive, fruit enzyme peel is gentle, yet highly effective. It's packed with pineapple and papaya enzymes to help keep your complexion exfoliated and smooth. Apply and rub in small circles to watch the skin ball up and wipe off in real time. It also contains skin-soothing niacinamide and intensely-hydrating sodium hyaluronate to leave skin plump and dewy. It's the perfect combo of hydration and exfoliation!
This lightweight facial oil absorbs quickly without feeling heavy or greasy. It contains a blend of fermented camellia, sunflower seed and jojoba seed oils that are rich in omega fatty acids, vitamins and antioxidants to soften and protect the skin. It has the lightest citrus-y scent and it blends seamlessly into skin, on top of moisturizer or with your foundation for a luminous glow.
The gorgeous golden hue of this sweet, sticky concoction looks (and smells) good enough to eat (though please don't). It contains acacia honey, honey extract and bee propolis — in other words, it's an apine trio of goodies that heal, hydrate and soothe skin. Antioxidant-rich lavender oil helps to calm irritations and lends the relaxing spa-like scent. Try this one when your skin is dried out or on the fritz and enjoy softer, smoother, calmer skin (and a calmer mind!).
We love this milky-jelly cleanser that marries the best traits of a makeup remover with an ultra-gentle cleanser. The lavender-scented wash gently and easily removes even stubborn makeup. It's formulated with rose extract (which is known for calming irritation), as well as healing and hydrating pro vitamin B5. It's also made with plant amino acids, which gently cleanse and moisturize the skin. Bonus: The soothing fragrance provides a great way to end the day.
