Let’s start with this — I know I have been scrolling too much. And when I do that, I always feel overwhelmed, thinking I need ten thousand things I don't actually need. So when I was at Pure Barre this morning, it got me thinking. Maybe you feel like this too. You want someone to be like — here is what you need. Don’t go overboard. These are your basics.
This is my attempt to break down the basics for myself and you, of things that actually work and are not sponsored (lollll). Maybe we can make this a series: one for my biggest downfall — skincare, one for clothes, one for home things, and so on. I think it could be fun, and I want to hear what works for you. We are all in the same boat. Just trying to figure it out.
Before we begin — *read this first* — you do not need any of this. However, if you are out of your current products or have been searching for something like the items listed below. I give them my pass of approval, which doesn't mean much, but you get the point. Also, pls ignore my nails. Mani is scheduled for tomorrow.
This. Okay, I am way behind on this train because I was skeptical about whether I would actually use it, but I do. I just put it on after I shower, and it gives me a moment of me time. And I really have seen results. I think it's worth the splurge.
I have always been a girl who uses the “Wet” brush. You know the detangling one from CVS, we have all used since 7th grade. I never really thought that other brushes would be all that different. Ummm… I was wrong. My hair after using this is not my hair. It's thick, soft, shiny, but still has bounce. I am sold. It is incredible. It has really made me think the famous Mason Pearson brush might be worth the hype, too. But for now — I am sticking with this one. I love Dianna Cohen and the brand she is building.
A friend of mine had this in Cashiers, and the red tube caught my eye. If nothing else, it just looks chic in your makeup bag. I rarely wear makeup, but in my attempt to elevate my everyday look, I have been putting on a little brown mascara. This one is great. It stays in place, feels natural on your lashes, and doesn't seem to irritate them. It's easy and makes you look like you don’t have makeup on.
In another attempt to elevate, I have started giving my lips a little love besides the typical Aquaphor application. This Rhode stuff. Gold. And I finally found a shade that looks good on me without making me feel like I have a lot going on. I think it’s called “Press”. Feels like lip injections but without the needles.
I think I was actually gifted this when I ordered a candle or something. I am not sure, but wow, I love it! I have been applying my moisturizer, a tiny bit of concealer around my nose, and then this on my high points, which gives you that glow without looking like you have glitter all over your face. Not the vibe. I really, really like this.
Don’t kill me for these. But yeah. They work. And make my skincare routine really short. Done and done for me.
These are the other products I have found work well for my skin. A little exfoliation, some extra hydration to lock in the products, and then top it off with the extreme cream. None are particularly pricey, which is great.
Again with the Crown Affair. This extends my hair by another day or two. And it smells divine. Aerosols kind of freak me out and make my hair feel like plastic, but this doesn’t. It is worth the craze.
The butter… this is kind of on the splurge side too, but I have truly enjoyed it. I put it everywhere after I get out of the shower, and it makes everything feel moisturized and your skin looks gorgeous. Oh, and one thing I didn't take a picture of, but is also helpful in this arena, is this exfoliator pad in the shower.
My new personality. I would put this on when I was a child visiting my Aunt Carole, and I recently rediscovered it at a boutique. I immediately bought 10 of them. It smells so clean. I like to keep it in my car and my bag for a refresh.
Lastly, more hair stuff. I have finally figured out my hair, which is a mash-up of Roz and Crown Affair. Typically, I shampoo, condition, and then comb my hair, followed by a light application of leave-in conditioner and a small amount of oil to the ends. It really has helped the health of my hair without feeling heavy.
Okay, that is all for today. I tried to make this a list of ten things, but here we are at eleven. I hope this was helpful and didn't stimulate you even more ;)
I've also posted this on my ShopMy thing, if you'd like a quick link.
Muah! LDJ