Honestly, I bought this stuff on a total whim. My usual moisturizer ran out, I was scrolling late at night after one too many episodes of some true crime documentary, and the words “brightening” and “protecting” just spoke to my tired, dull-looking skin. For $32, I figured it was worth a shot. Can you believe I almost didn’t notice it was for face AND body? Game changer for a lazy person like me.
The First Impression Was… Weird
Listen, when it arrived, the texture threw me off. It’s not a thin lotion, but it’s not a heavy cream either. It’s somewhere in between, like a whipped cloud? I was skeptical. But here’s the thing: it sinks in stupidly fast. No greasy residue, which is a miracle because my forehead usually shines like a lighthouse. I’ve been using it after my morning shower, slapping it on my face, arms, and the dreaded dry patches on my shins. One product for all that? Yes, please.
So, Does It Actually “Brighten”?
I gotta say, I rolled my eyes at this claim. “Brightening” is such a vague promise. But after about three weeks of consistent use, my sister actually asked if I was using a new highlighter. My skin just looks… healthier? More even? It’s not a dramatic “Instagram filter” change, but there’s a definite glow that wasn’t there before. I think the rose oil gives it that subtle, dewy finish. It’s nice.
The Protecting Part & The One Drawback
Okay, full disclosure: I’m not treating this as my sole sunscreen. The description says it helps shield from “environmental stressors,” which I take to mean pollution and maybe some very light sun exposure for short periods. If I’m going to be outside for more than 20 minutes, I layer my actual SPF 50 over it. It’s a fantastic moisturizing base for that, though. No pilling!
Now, for the not-so-perfect bit. The scent. It’s very… rosy. Not fake, perfumey rose, but a natural, earthy rose. I don’t mind it, but my boyfriend said I smelled like his grandma’s garden. So if you’re super sensitive to floral scents, maybe patch test first. It fades pretty quickly after application, though.
How It Stacks Up (A Lazy Comparison)
I made a quick comparison chart for you folks who, like me, just want the facts without a long story.
| Feature | West&Month Cream | My Old Drugstore Moisturizer |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $31.99 | ~$12 |
| Key Stuff | Glycerin Stearate, Rose Oil | Dimethicone, Fragrance |
| Face & Body? | YES (big win) | Face only |
| Finish | Matte, absorbs fast | Often a bit shiny |
You get what you pay for, honestly. The West&Month feels more like skincare and less like a silicone layer.
Final, Non-Expert Thoughts
I’m keeping it. The convenience factor alone is huge for my chaotic mornings. My skin feels legitimately comfortable all day—not tight, not oily. Is it a magical brightening elixir? No. But it’s a really, really good, lightweight moisturizer that gives a healthy glow and simplifies my routine. The price point is fair for the size and the dual-use. Just maybe don’t gift it to someone who hates the smell of roses.
Anyway, that’s my two cents. Back to my true crime binge. Let me know if you try it and what you think!
– Jessica
