Meet Supertester: Elyse Exposito

Wow Elyse! You've tested of 164 brands on Thingtesting. Tell our reader's a little about yourself.

Hii! Would it be too corny of me to describe myself by my zodiac sign? It’s incredibly accurate, so: I’m a textbook Taurus, loyal and practical, with a tendency toward comfort and luxury. Professionally, my background started in graphic design, which is where my appreciation grew for clever packaging and punchy branding. Personally, I’ve lived in a waterfront boating town (Annapolis, MD), a trendy tech hub (Austin, TX), and now a tropical city (Miami, FL). Those locations all have in common great food, mild-to-wild weather, and a rich, entrepreneurial culture that has influenced me.

What's your favorite part of being a Thingtester?

My favorite part of being a Thingtester is that it’s on my terms and only for the brands I feel compelled to share. Thingtesting is the ultimate word-of-mouth community, I actually discovered it on Instagram and immediately clicked over to their site. What motivates me to review products is that I love, love being able to contribute honest feedback on great brands, as well as discover entire categories of products I would’ve never come across otherwise. I remember reading my parents’ Consumer Reports magazine when I was younger, and Thingtesting feels like the modern-day, chiller digital version of that, highlighting the best items from the brightest reviewers. Plus, the company and inner circle of other Thingtesters, who are all ultra welcoming!, make up an enjoyable group of people from all walks of life, contributing to a growing and unique network for betterment. Getting to see and support brands launching in saturated spaces, like beverages and skincare, is such a fun bonus.

What are some of your tried and true brands?

Nuun

After a couple of years living in the heat of Texas, I realized I had been dehydrated season after season. I tried to improve my hydration by chugging water every day but still felt depleted, until I came across Nuun electrolyte tablets. A friend with diabetes shared them with me, noting that the brand uses minimal sugar and clean ingredients that never spike her blood sugar. Nuun’s flavor options, ease of use, packaging, and carefree-but-serious brand quickly became a staple in my daily life. I’ve loved watching how their product line has expanded, from hydration to rest, energy, immunity, and more. And for the record, Strawberry Lemonade and Orange Citrus are the best flavors.

Frida Baby / Frida Mom

I’m a new mom and was overwhelmed by the gauntlet of products tailored to pregnancy, delivery, and recovery. It’s difficult to determine which brands to trust, but Frida Mom makes it easy. They’ve been in the parenthood game for a while, and their products, aka the one and only NoseFrida, have more than 35k positive reviews. What also sets them apart is their cheeky, real-talk copy and impactful branding. I feel so prepared having stocked my medicine cabinet and bathroom with safe and effective items for the baby. (Want an idea of the random yet necessary things a new parent may need? Google “Windi Gas Passer.”)

Below Sixty

When our previous scent diffuser kept giving my husband and me migraines, we knew there had to be a better, safer way to enjoy fragrance at home. Below 60 caught my attention with its clean, natural, plant-based claims, and the ability to dial a scent up or down manually. No app needed, how refreshing! Their starter kits are priced well and include deliciously named scents like “Vanilla Buys a Timeshare in Paradise.” The brand has since expanded into candles, but their core product now comes in new scents and continues to be a fun, lovely addition to our home.

Recess

When I fantasize about building the perfect [dry] bar at home, Recess is high on my list of beverages to include. Not just because their cans are exquisitely colored gradients adorned with clouds, but because the sparkling drink has a unique recipe and taste. The magnesium and adaptogens are effective in helping me reach a more chilled-out mode, without grogginess or feeling out of sorts. I love that the brand was created to help people relax and let their best ideas flow, rather than push a performance mindset.

Skinbetter Science

My dermatologist recommended this brand after I shared how exhausting it is to keep up with all the skincare trends and new product launches. I wanted to use what professionals trust, and I love that this brand doesn’t churn out new products every season or rely on celebrity spokespeople. Instead, they focus on tried-and-true formulas that have remained effective for years. It feels premium while also being considered medical-grade, and the results speak for themselves.

PopSockets

I use my PopSockets iPhone case and magnetic wallet every day. It’s the ultimate multi-use product that helps me stay organized, store cards, and keep a safe grip on my phone. The two-in-one accessories are affordable and continue to evolve alongside phone tech and consumer needs.

Kristin Ess 3-in-1 Curling and Straightening Iron

Fun fact: Any Laguna Beach-watching millennial knows LC’s gorgeous hair post-show was thanks to hairstylist/scientist Kristin Ess. She originally launched her huge range of affordable haircare products at Target. The 3-in-1 iron is my go-to when traveling or pulling double duty during the work week and weekend. Being able to achieve multiple looks and finishes with one easy-to-use tool is a game-changer.

Oura Ring

This is the best wearable I’ve used when it comes to sleek, undetectable design and comprehensive health data. I wear my Oura ring daily and through the night to track sleep, readiness score, steps, and heart rate. The technology continues to evolve, but this product feels like such an accomplishment, and I’m grateful to have more insight into how my body functions.

Bombas

Cozy socks with a philanthropic purpose. I was hooked on Bombas when I first saw them on Shark Tank, and I’ve continued to purchase as their product line and style offerings have expanded. There’s no comparing the fit and minimal wear-and-tear of these socks to others on the market. I keep buying them for myself, and gifting them to others.

Mira

The proof that this works is... my 5-week-old daughter! I tried other brands but felt something was off with the tracking. I also didn’t want to constantly go into a lab or clinic for bloodwork. Enter Mira. This device was easy to use and gave me the insights I needed, without the time commitment, copays, or wait. It truly filled a gap for me.