My Favorite Things - Skincare Edition
Today I am excited to launch my new series, "My Favorite Things", in which I will go into detail about some of my favorite beauty products. From skincare and makeup to hair and nails, get ready to dive into the world of my favorite things! Today's topic is (drumroll please)... skincare! With the cold and dry weather upon us here in Colorado, I thought now would be the perfect time to post some of my skincare saviors and commonly used products.
A friend recently came over to my house and while she was here, opened my vanity mirror in the bathroom and gasped at how many products I have. It's true, I have an obsession. As an esthetician I love talking about, learning about, and trying out new skincare and makeup items. Below are some of my favorite things for skincare needs... But first, you should know a bit about my skin (since not all skin reacts/feels/produces oil the same). My skin is pretty much normal-combination with a bit of dryness and occasional oiliness in my T-Zone (forehead, nose and chin). I suffer from occasional breakouts, typically hormone or food related (dairy is almost always the culprit for me, so I try my darnedest to avoid it). So here goes, My Favorite Things - Skincare Edition:
Lips:
My absolute favorite lip product is the Bite Beauty Agave Lip Mask ($26). I use this every night before bed and never suffer from dry or cracked lips. I remember when I first bought it, it was on a total whim as I had never heard anyone rave about it before. I thought to myself "for $26, this had better be good," and it did not disappoint. One tube lasted me over a year of once daily use, I swear. A little goes a long way with this little guy. I've purchased three tubes now, one is long gone, another lives next to my bed, and the third in my purse. The product comes in three shades; Clear, Smashed (sheer red), and Champagne (rose gold pearl). Champagne is my personal favorite simply because rose gold is the best thing in life. My boyfriend recently started to use it and has given it a thumbs up as well!
Face:
The brand Osea Malibu is fantastic. I almost cannot say enough good things about them. They are family owned and are committed to natural, organic, vegan, biodegradable, cruelty-free, Non-GMO, synthetic-free, non-toxic beauty. I mean how is that even possible, that list is so incredibly long!? I LOVE what they stand for and the products the create. They truly are the most commonly used brand in my skincare routine. So let's get to my favorite item from them today:
The Atmosphere Protection Cream ($48) is my daily morning and night face moisturizer. It's lightweight, soaks in fast, smells amazing, and does exactly what it says, protects my skin from the harsh elements of the atmosphere. I love that I can use it throughout the year knowing that it's great for my skin and lightweight enough that I can use it alone for just enough moisture, or add an oil or serum to take it to the next level. It contains awesome ingredients such as algae extract, which is loaded with vitamins and minerals, as well as several delicious essential oils that are great for hydration, rejuvenation, and protection.
The Rosewater Aromatherapy Mist ($6-8) is perfect for those on the go that want a little something luxurious without spending a ton. I spritz this on my face every morning and night directly after washing my face. I am obsessed with the scent and have absolutely seen a difference since adding this to my skincare routine. Rose oil helps to moisturize dry skin, acts like a toner with its antiseptic and astringent properties, and helps reduce inflammation and redness. I highly recommend this product to people that suffer from acne, rosacea, and/or eczema. Need a great gift idea? Treat a friend or family member to an at home spa day with this aromatherapy mist because who doesn't want to bathe in a tub of roses?!
Organic Argan oil ($6.99) can be great for the skin for different reasons. It can help with oily skin (yes, oil can combat oil), and can help with dry skin (I promise there is a science behind these concepts). Argan oil is often fantastic for combating dry skin. I love using it year round because of the dry Colorado climate. Years ago I found myself spending upwards of $45 on organic Argan oil because it was super trendy and, as far as I knew, not as readily available. Now, that tune has fortunately changed. I buy 100% organic Argan oil at Trader Joes for $6.99 for a 1.7 oz bottle. The oil is sourced organically from Morocco and is filled with yummy vitamin E, fatty acids, and polyphenol (great for skin cell turnover and anti-aging). Argan oil can be great not only for skin, but hair and nails too! I love that this oil soaks in quickly, so it does not leave me feeling greasy. I add 2-4 drops to my moisturizer morning and night.
Body:
Finding a great body lotion has been a difficult struggle for me. When I was younger I just went for my favorite scent and slapped it all over (anyone remember Love Spell from Victoria's Secret?!). Now I want something without an overbearing scent (or sometimes I prefer no scent at all), and I want it to absorb quickly while actually doing a good job of moisturizing my skin. I finally found one that works for me and is totally affordable! Check your local Target folks, I've hit the jackpot on body lotions. The Alba Botanica Very Emollient Body Lotion ($8-$13) comes in a whopping 32 oz bottle with a handy pump at the top. Perfect for applying lotion directly after a shower or before bed. It soaks in wicked fast and comes in several scent options, including unscented! The lotion is formulated without parabens, phthalates, or synthetic fragrance and is hypo-allergenic.
Thank you for taking the time to read "My Favorite Things - Skincare Edition"! Be sure to check back soon for my next installment!
Please be mindful that not all skin types are the same, so what works for me, might not work for you. If you'd like to chat about some skincare tips specifically for your skin type feel free to contact me!
What are some of your favorite skincare items? Comment below!