I like to think I know what I’m talking about, and according to a handful of my fans, my recommendations and I quote have “changed their life”. You heard it here first. So do with it what you will as long as you buy some of these products so I can also buy more for myself. I promise I’m doing you a favor. I’m not an influencer, I’m just a girl, with fans. I wouldn’t steer you wrong.
As a self proclaimed product junkie, I’m on the list of every beauty and skincare subscription box, and have tried more skincare devices, lotions, washes, serums, and creams, than you have toilet paper in your house PQ (Pre-Quarantine, assuming you shopped at Costco). Name me a brand, your girl’s tried it.
In case this wasn’t already obvious, I have A.D.D. and not the “ohhhh I think I have A.D.D. because I keep reading the same line over and over” version. I’ve actually had all of the Psychiatry tests and scans to confirm my uniqueness, and it’s cool, I’m cool. Did I leave the stove burner on for an hour and half after I finished making my lunch? Yes. Have I lost my phone because I put it in the fridge for some reason, well sure. All that said, it’s safe to assume I can get bored easily, and the same fleeting interest I have in something I’m reading, or a simple task, rings true for products.
So with that in mind, for me to share my tried and true, can’t live without, deserted island staple skincare superstars with you, epitomizes my love for them. Below you’ll find (what is this, a work email?) a comprehensive list of products across a range of categories that will change your skin, and in turn, your life.
Not that I’m asking for a Gold Star or anything, but it was the challenge beyond my expectations to narrow it down to these. What was the criteria you ask? What products would I cry about if they were discontinued. There are more, but I just started a blog, so you don’t think I’m going to give everything away in one post did you? silly girl.
As your friend (don’t forget my birthday, September 24th), I’m proud to tell you why, what, and where to buy my essentials, because unlike most girls, I’m not afraid to dish out my secrets. I solemnly swear the following to live up to their promises, and after you purchase them, you’ll like me even more that you did before you started reading this.
Cleansing Oil
DHC
$28
Why a cleansing oil? Well, it’s my personal opinion that every self respecting human should practice the art of the double cleanse. I’m privy to the many cleansing balms and oils on the market and this no nonsense Easterner favorite reigns supreme. I’ve been using this product since I was 7, and well, thats a long time… I’m almost 30, so do the math, that’s some loyalty. The pump based solution softens skin, melts away makeup with little agitation (unlike the balms on the market), leaving skin nourished, clean, and ready for it’s second and final round of cleansing! After recommending this product to many of my friends, they’ve come back to thank me, because much like I’ve promised in the title of this post, it’s life-changing. If you’d like to give it a try, you can always purchase the travel size, and discover how wise I am! TRY IT HERE
P.S.A. While this cleanser is indeed Olive Oil based, please refrain from replacing it with the version in your cabinet, speaking from experience, it’s simply not the same.
Ready Steady Glow Daily AHA Tonic
REN
$38
Prepare to shine like the perfectly layered apple display in Bristol Farms. After cleansing, apply to cotton pad and dab all over your face and neck. There’s a slight tingling sensation, immediately followed by an instant glow. Since adding this powerhouse to my routine, my skin’s discoloration has almost entirely disappeared along with the blackheads on and around my nose. Admittedly, it took me longer than enough to discover the beauty of acids. Prepare to cringe. I used to wash my face with St Ives Scrub thinking that’s what my skin needed to exfoliate. Glad I’ve elevated my skincare game. TRY IT HERE
C E Ferulic
SkinCeuticals
$166
It’s better than you could imagine. Talk about life changing. Don’t sleep on an essential that does more than any of its peers. Everyone must use Vitamin C, and when you play the game of “you get what you pay for”, this wins.I haven’t had botox since using this product. Fine lines are diminished, my skin tone is even, and I can give C E Ferulic all the credit. While most Vitamin C serums are singularly focused, Skin Ceuticals included Vitamin E, and Ferulic Acid to protect against Free Radicals, boost brightening power, and anti-aging properties. I know it’s expensive, but it has to be to work the way it does! One bottle tends to last me 4-5 months, and the product has a shelf life of 6 once opened (am I the only one that pays attention to shelf lives?) Bite the bullet and you’ll sing my praises, hopefully, in key. TRY IT HERE
Daily Microfoliant
Dermalogica
$59
Shine Like The Top Of The Empire State Building. The best way to get that real clean feeling, and no other product makes my skin glisten after use. If you insist on lightly exfoliating everyday, this product is for you. This life saver is a unique rice-based enzyme powder that micro-exfoliates dulling debris and instantly leaves the skin noticeably smoother and brighter. The powder formula activates upon contact with water, releasing papain, salicylic acid and rice actives to accelerate cell renewal. Bearberry, aspergillus, grapefruit and licorice evens skin tone. A soothing blend of green tea, ginkgo and colloidal oatmeal calms inflammation. TRY IT HERE
Face Finishing & Firming Tinted Moisturizer SPF 30
Perricone MD
$69
Instagram Filter In A Jar. A tan + Sunscreen + Firming + Hydrating = I’m not crying, you’re crying. This is one of those products that I’d bring to a deserted island, not just for the sunscreen protection, but because it’s literally allowed me to stop wearing makeup. So here’s what to expect. You open the product, and find a grayish cream with tiny specks. Take a product spatula (please, I beg you, use these, otherwise you’re getting germs everywhere) and apply to your face. Instantly ,the grey color starts to morph into your skin tone, all while keeping your skin a plump, moisturized and protected from the sun. Unlike most moisturizers with sunscreen, you won’t feel like you’re getting an arm workout during application. Top 3 favorite for me. TRY IT HERE I beg you.
Luxury Face Oil Lavender
RODIN OLIO LUSSO
$96 – $170
The Only Face Oil That Matters. Truly. This is a true gift to your skin. Yes the price tag is aggressive, but you get what you pay for. I initially received this oil as a gift with purchase of one of Rodin’s amazing lipsticks. I remember I was visiting family and threw some travel sized products in my bag to try while I was away. Buy the second day using this product, I noticed my complexion was bouncy. clear, and glassy – and I was hooked. At the time I was using Sunday Riley and Herbivore oils, and thought they did a fair job, little did I know they’d become obsolete! The real hero’s of this oil are the Spanish sweet almond oil, Moroccan argan oil, and Spanish apricot seed oil. Omega 3, 6, 7, and 9 essential fatty acids build a skin-strengthening moisture barrier, while pro vitamin A and vitamin E provide essential nourishment to keep skin smooth, supple, and glowing. TRY IT HERE
Lavender HydroSoul Spray
Evan Healy
$29.95
An Adult version of the Lip Smakers Experience, but for your face. Consider this a literal treat, with zero consequences. While I love alternative versions of a facial spray to help tone and prep the skin, Evan Healy’s Hydrosoul feels like I’m taking a bite out of my favorite cookie while simultaneously being hugged by my mother, comfort at it’s best, at least as far as I’m concerned. An entirely natural product, this spray exceeds my expectations every time, always leaving my skin hydrated and ready for the next product. Full Disclaimer, I have two of these, one in my bathroom and one in my purse at all times, because I’m shamelessly addicted to the smell and feel of this graceful spritz. TRY IT HERE
C O N G R A T S ! You made it to the end. If you purchase any of these products, do me a solid and share you photos, videos, or general thoughts! I love an opportunity to say told ya so.
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Can’t wait to try some of these out. Love you!
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