Culture | Sep. 2025
NEWSWORTHY: SEPTEMBER 2025
By Dustin O’Regan
XOMD
Fall in love with your skin—literally. Inspired by the radiant effects of oxytocin, the feel-good hormone released when we’re in love, XOMD Skin is the brainchild of renowned aesthetic experts Dr. Sabrina Fabi and Dr. Steven Dayan. Combining decades of clinical insight with cutting-edge research into the science of attraction, they developed the proprietary OX Factor™—a powerful blend of phytopeptides, phospholipids, and jasmine extract that mimics oxytocin’s mood-boosting, glow-inducing effects. The line includes a Detox Cleanser to gently purify and prep the skin, an Intoxicate Serum to target tone and texture while uplifting the spirit, and an Arouse Moisturizer to hydrate, smooth, and visibly enhance radiance. Dermatologist-tested, cruelty-free, and formulated without parabens, sulfates, or fragrances, XOMD is more than skincare—it’s chemistry. For more information, visit xomdskin.com.
LIGHT IT UP
Betsy Jane, a new wellness company based in Wilmette, recently launched its Core Collection line of clean and consciously sourced candles. Inspired by family, nature, and the serenity of Chicago’s North Shore, the Core Collection is available year-round and includes five unique fragrances: Northshore, Sheridan, Coast, Banyan, and Rose. The 12-ounce, double-wick candles offer unique combinations to enchant the senses, providing a clean, slow burn and a beautiful aroma that envelops your space. They are hand-poured in small batches and can be purchased online at shopbetsyjane.com. Betsy Jane creates beautiful, safe products that inspire moments of peace and awaken a sense of joy. Founded by Kate Khurana, a mom of two, Betsy Jane’s high-quality products represent the intersection of wellness and home, elevating daily life. For more information, follow @shopbetsyjane on Instagram or visit shopbetsyjane.com.
THE PERFECT LOAF
Ballerina Farm, the Northern Utah farmstead founded by Daniel and Hannah Neeleman, has captivated millions across Instagram and TikTok with its blend of rural charm and artisanal living. Now, the family-run operation is inviting home bakers to share in their passion for traditional bread-making with the Ballerina Farm Sourdough Kit. After baking hundreds—if not thousands—of loaves, Hannah Neeleman has carefully selected and designed each item in the kit to elevate the sourdough experience from start to finish. The set includes a Sourdough Recipe Booklet featuring detailed instructions and step-by-step photography, two Wicker Proofing Baskets to support the dough as it rises, a Sourdough Spatula for mixing, a Bench Scraper for shaping and transferring, and Ballerina Farm’s signature Dehydrated Willa Sourdough Starter, the same starter used in the couple’s own kitchen. To complement the kit, Ballerina Farm also offers a range of specialty tools and ingredients, including Weck Jars for storing starter, Bread Lames for scoring decorative patterns, High Protein Farm Flour—Hannah’s preferred choice for achieving an airy crumb—and Coarse Grey French Salt for perfectly seasoned loaves. For more information, visit ballerinafarm.com.
