Constantly trying new products is the most fun part of being in the beauty industry. Catching up with the latest and greatest however leaves very little room for product loyalty. It is rare for me to finish a product. So when I do use something to the last drop, my need to share grows very strong.
And since I’ve emptied quite a handful of tubes and bottles of late, I’m sharing this quick rundown of what I’d purchase immediately or have replenished already. I’m trying to keep things snappy and limiting my enthusiasm to 3-4 sentences per product.
Dr. Teal’s Foaming Bath
My favorite budget find. I drive almost an hour to the Walmart Supercenter that carries this foaming bath (most drugstore chains only carry the bags of bath salts). This particular Balance & Calm formula can be difficult to find so I stock up on it whenever possible. Lovely scent, TONS of bubbles, and never dries out the skin. $5 or so for a huge 34 oz bottle
L’OCCITANE Lavender Foaming Bath
This iconic bubble bath is a total treat and makes for a fantastic gift. Nobody does lavender better than L’OCCITANE so expect total relaxation and provencal aroma realness. You’ll be shocked how long a bottle lasts since a small pour per bath is all you need. $39 sephora.com
Dr. Hauschka Lemon Lemongrass Vitalizing Bath Essence
This essence doesn’t deliver much bubbling action but it will transform your bathing ritual into an intoxicating aromatherapy experience. If you’re able to bathe in the morning (the most decadent way to kick off any day), this Dr. Hauschka herbal blend will add a pep to your step. I wish these bath essences were available in larger bottles. $25 drhauschka.com
Avène TriXera Nutri-Fluid Cleanser
If your skin becomes dry and sensitive during the cold weather, add this face and body wash to your shower. The gel texture is thick and almost slippery but foams up great and cleanses the skin without stripping its protective barrier. I am addicted to the light scent of Avène products, so I go through this body wash in record speed. $29 dermstore.com
Neostrata Foaming Glycolic Wash
Known for its alpha hydroxy fueled solutions, the Neostrata brand rarely gets its much deserved exposure outside of derm offices. This foaming wash contains 18% glycolic acid to help address dull tone, congested pores, and rough skin texture. I can assure you that it delivers on every single promise but as much as I like it, I am not replacing it just yet as it works best for me during warmer weather. $40 skinstore.com
Philosophy purity made simple micellar cleansing water
A micellar water isn’t a part of my daily cleansing routine, but sometimes it’s the only thing I can muster the strength to use before crashing after a late night. The simplicity of the philosophy formula is pretty perfect: refreshing yet unscented, truly water-like, and an excellent cleanser. I’ve gone through multiple bottles which speaks volumes. $22 ulta.com
DHC Silky Cotton
I’ve been repurchasing two brands of cotton for years now and the DHC box is one of them. These 100% cotton pads are sturdy and absorbent but most importantly there won’t be a single trace of loose fiber sticking to your facial hair. Ever. I’m also partial to Japanese cuteness and the finger pocket that guarantees precision is the most appreciated detail in self-care. $5.50 dermstore.com
5Yina Divine Bio-Adaptive Cleanser
This non-foaming, lotion type cleanser has a clay-like consistency and delicate pink hue. Both luxurious and highly effective, the formula is packed with impressive organic plant extracts and Mother of Pearl to deliver a smooth, glowing complexion. I apply it to dry skin, add a bit of water, massage it in for a full minute. This must be how monks perform their self-care ritual. $38 5yina.com
Sulwhasoo First Care Activating Serum EX
It took me a while to embrace the concept of a ‘prep’ serum (whose goal is to boost the absorption of products that follow) but having finished my fourth bottle, I am glad I stuck around. This blend of five Korean herbs, honey, and skin nourishing botanical extracts has a rich golden color and a subtle herbal aroma. Since it’s a liquid step, I tend to skip an essence when using this formula as it’s already incredibly hydrating. $84 beautylish.com
By Kilian Bamboo Harmony
My search for the perfect green citrus ended the moment I tried Bamboo Harmony last year. The notes of white tea, bamboo, bergamot, neroli, fig leaf, oak moss, and spices result in a light yet sophisticated fragrance that wears equally well during the day or night (and subtly lingers for hours). It would last much longer if I could keep my husband away from it but luckily the bottle is refillable so be sure to save it after your last spritz. $295 (50ml) saks.com
Rene Furterer Absolue Kératine Shampoo
This rich, creamy, and rather frothy easily ranks in my top 3 all time favorite daily shampoos. I use both heat tools and styling products and wash my hair every day. I’ve found this repairing formula to be fantastic and recommend it to anyone with dry or over-processed hair. Its practical packaging, delicious scent, and impressive results make this one pretty perfect. $32 skinstore.com
R+Co Outer Space Flexible Hairspray
I tend to stay away from ‘flexible’ hairsprays because they usually don’t have enough hold for my ‘up do’ to last all day. This R+Co product provides ideal medium hold, adds a bit of volume, and never makes my hair feel crunchy. No mid-day flake fall-out either. $32 dermstore.com
